ladylamrian

[ladylamrian]

Hunter & Huntress

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: With danger near, Nik Ryder has something important to tell his girlfriend, Alex.

Word Count: 3.4K words

Rating: General/Teen (Fluff, Action, Comedy)

Warnings: none (Vampires)

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesdecember2024 [Prompt: Miracle - "It's a miracle."] and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

When Nik Ryder led his girlfriend, Alex, to their special place, he felt a pang of nostalgia as he thought about their very first kiss they shared here once. In the bayou. The very same place where he not only kissed her but also spent his childhood with his birth parents.

"Sit down, please."

"Nik, why did you bring me here? Is everything alright?", she asked as she sat down on the fresh grass which gently touched her skin.

Nik sat down, too, next to her, and avoided looking into her chocolate-brown eyes. Alex noticed the strange behavior of her boyfriend and worried. Why is he like this? He's been acting weird for days, and why did he bring her to their special place? Does he want to break up? What's going on? Worry and many questions filled her mind and she waited for his answer. After a long silence, he dared to speak without looking into her eyes.

"I wanted to talk to you. There's something I'd like to tell you."

"Nik..."

He saw the worry expression on her face.

"Hey, don't be concerned. It's nothing bad. Just stay here and be quiet for a moment, okay?"

She nodded. Taking a deep breath, Nik watched her with serious but calm eyes as he took her hand in his.

"Rook. I mean, Alex... We've been together more than two years now and... You changed my life. You make my days less tough. I feel lighter when I'm around you. You make me enjoy life, appreciate good moments, and look forward to the future... But these words aren't enough to fully express what I feel. And so... I want to ask you..."

Suddenly, a horrible shriek interrupted the man's words and made the young couple panic. Immediately Nik's mood worsened. The danger was on their way.

"Damn... not now."

"Nik, that sound? What was that?"

"Stay here. I'll check it out.", he requested as he stood up, stepped away from her, and grabbed his blades from his pockets.

"No, I'll come with you. We're a team, remember?"

"Hey, I'll handle this alone. I don't want you to get hurt. Stay here."

"Nik, not again this... I can handle this!! Don't be so overprotective. Remember, how many times I saved you? I'll support you. We're equals."

"Fine. But if you get hurt, remember I'll kick your ass."

"Not when I kick yours first." she giggled as her mood lightened up, which made him smile back.

"Oh yeah? We'll see about that. Now come..."

Hand in hand, Nik and Alex silently followed the strange voices. They ended up a few feet away from a small group of vampires.

"I'm gonna take care of them, okay?" the young man whispered.

"Me too."

"No, Alex. Tagging you along was already a bad idea. Just keep yourself behind me. No reckless things, alright?"

"Well, I can't promise that. I'm a fae. Darling, I can defeat them with magic."

"I know that, but I don't want you to exhaust your magic. Not after the difficult hunt we just had yesterday."

"Yes, but ..."

"Don't 'but' me, Alex. I'm asking you to stay behind me. Please. I'm not saying this as a man but as your comrade. I know you're capable, but I also know how easily a moment of distraction can lead a hunter to make mistakes. And the fewer variables in a plan, the better.

Do you understand?", Nik argued with her.

"Okay, thanks for the info. Now let me take care of these intruders.", she responded coldly and began running right towards the vampires.

Nik Ryder watched in shock and horror at her partner and immediately sprinted after her.

"Alex!! DAMN IT!"

When the man caught up to her, he pulled her towards him, standing in a protective position.

"Alex, are you out of your mind?!? I want you to stay right behind me and I better not find you anywhere else. Got it?"

"Maybe they are friendly vampires."

"There are no 'good' vampires, Alex. It's either stay behind me or I grab you by the collar and take you out of here."

"None of these options, Nik. I'll fight!", she demanded.

"Oh, rook... I swear, you'll be the death of me."

The vampires turned to face them and one of them stepped closer.

"Oh, look here, hunters..."

Nik protectively stepped in front of Alex again, with a defiant glare.

"Don't you dare to lay a finger on her, bloodsucker."

"No, come near me. I'm not afraid of you.", Alex confidently shouted at them.

"Oh, we will do more than just come near you."

Nik put himself firmly between the vampires and Alex.

"Touch her and you'll see what I do to your kind.", the nighthunter warned them, ready to get in action if necessary.

"Feisty. How cute...", one of the vampires chuckled and moved closer towards the couple.

"I swear to god, back off!!"

"No, let them come closer. I'll handle it."

"Rook, are you insane?!?"

"No."

"And if they tear you apart?"

"Nik, they won't. Believe me."

"And what gives you make to be so damn sure of that?!?", he almost snapped at her while she remained cool.

"Because you have me, Nik."

The man couldn't help but roll his eyes again, though a hint of a smile appeared on his face.

"Of course, your overconfidence is one of the reasons that drive me crazy. Damn you, rook."

"I love you too, my cute Nik."

The young couple was so focused on their argument that one of the vampires jumped into action.

Nik noticed in time and pushed Alex behind him, parrying the vampire's attacks with his blades.

"Stay behind me, rook.", he shouted while kicking a second vampire away from her.

"Woah, thanks."

"I told you... I told you to stay behind me!"

"But I didn't even moved."

"Stop being so damn stubborn!", he spoke and then blocked another vampire attack.

Then he glanced at her and discovered another vampire standing very close to her. Without taking his eyes off Alex, he kicked the vampire away from her.

"Watch out, rook!"

"No, you watch out!!", Alex shouted and used her light magic to blind the vampire which secretly sneaked up behind Nik. This saved Nik and gave him enough time to attack back at the opponent.

"Alex, I specifically told you to stay behind... but of course, you never listen to me, do you? Do I have to hold you by the collar? Damn, I don't want to hold anything. I want you to do what I say for once!", he grunted in annoyance while dodging an attack.

"Nik, behind you!!", Alex warned him again while fighting off the rest of the vampires with her magic. Back against back with the nighthunter who just sliced one with his blades. The creature screamed in pain and retreated. It took the fae a final blow of her light magic to eliminate that being. The rest of them now got scared away and escaped until the dynamic duo, Alex and Nik, were safe again.

"Pheww, we did it.", Alex proudly announced as both, she and her partner were panting rapidly out of exhaustion.

Nik dropped his weapons and took her girlfriend by the shoulders to create eye contact.

"You have to stop being so damn reckless!", Nik grunted.

"But I just saves us."

"That's not the point! You could have gotten hurt or even worse! Do you know how worried I was when I saw you facing those creatures alone?"

"No, I was busy with saving us."

Nik was very frustrated, but his voice softened, and there was a hint of worry.

"Damn it, Alex. I told you to stay behind me... Why is it that you refuse to listen to me? When have you ever actually..."

"Nik, duck!!", she screamed.

Nik was startled but immediately managed to bend down just in time as Alex faced the last remaining vampire, which surprisingly appeared for a fight.

The hunter glanced over his shoulder. His heart raced, his protective instincts on high alert and he was ready to intervene until he noticed that Alex was handling everything surprisingly well.

She whirled around her magic and scared the enemy off. After all, she mastered light magic, which feared the creatures of the night the most. Nik stood up, slightly panting. His silver-blue eyes searched for her with a mixture of concern and relief.

He panicked as he watched Alex fall to the ground out of exhaustion. The young man rushed towards her and kneeled beside her.

"Alex!! Damn, are you alright?"

"Yeah, I'm good."

He grabbed her chin, tilted her head up to get a better look at her.

"You look tired, rook. Are you sure you're not hurt?", he wispered.

"Naaahhh, just saved your pretty ass.", she joked, wanting to make him feel better.

He rolled his eyes, half amused and half worried.

"Oh, my, whatever would I do without you?",

"Probably suffer. Oh hey, what's that? This box? It must have dropped while the fight."

"Huh, I didn't notice it... Where?"

He followed the direction of his girlfriend's gaze, curiosity piqued. Nestled among the blades of green grass was a small box. Its velvety red surface glistening, beckoning for attention like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

His eyes widened in disbelief as he recognized the box, and panic washed over him. Within seconds, he jumped up and quickly grabbed the box, hiding it from her view.

"Huh? Nik, what...?"

"N... N... Nothing. Just leave it...", he cleared his throat, trying to hide his nervousness.

"What? Why?"

"Nothing, rook. You should stand up now."

"Nik, what is it? What was that?"

The man cursed himself mentally. She wasn't going to let it go, was she? Especially how stubborn his girlfriend was.

"Alex, I told you, it's nothing. Please trust me just for once."

"But Nik..."

"Please get on your feet first, rook."

"Okay, Nik."

Nik sighed. He decided to be patient, knowing that trying to convince her otherwise was useless now.

The woman got up to her feet and gazed at him with curiosity and suspicion. Her beautiful eyes were still fixed on the box behind his back as she tried to figure out what was inside. He gently extended a hand to help her up while still holding the box behind his back.

Nik needed to take a deep breath. He was planning a moment, a special place and a calm atmosphere. But the uninvited vampires just ruined everything and now she's too damn curious for her own.

Now he was out of options. If he didn’t do it now, she wouldn't rest until she figured out what's in that damn box. Now or never. He turned to face her with a mixture of nervousness and determination. Nik took her hands and gently squeezed them while his heart pounded in his chest as if he was about to explode. He got serious, trying to hide his unsafety.

"Okay, there's something I need you to know. Alex, we've been together for some time and these days at your side have been incredible. You are smart, witty and fierce... and one of the most stubborn people I know."

"You love my stubborn nature, don't you?", she giggled.

"I won't deny it, even with your stubborn nature, you are still the most special and unique person I've ever met.", he chuckled.

Her words made him feel a little better to gather all his courage. His voice got a bit shaky as he spoke further.

"I can't imagine my life without you, Alex. I love you more than anything in this whole damn world and that's why.... I want to ask you a very important question. You know I'm not good with words, but I want to try because you deserve it. I want you to be only mine and nobody else's and I'll be just your's. I hate it when someone flirts with you. Take my heart, take my damn life because I can't stop falling in love with you. I... I want you to be my life partner, my companion, my huntress, my partner in crime, my... wife."

The nighthunter confidently held out the box to her and opened it, revealing a stunning engagement ring inside. The design was exquisite, showcasing a large diamond prominently at its center.

"Alexis Clarissa Fontaine, will you marry me?"

Nik Ryder waited patiently for her to speak, studying her reaction anxiously. He wasn't sure what to expect. Were her eyes glistening because she was about to cry? Was she excited or surprised? He just hoped for the best.

"Nik...", she tried to continue.

His heart was racing and he felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. He watched her reaction, searching for any sign to tell him what was going through her mind at that moment.

In a sudden surge of anger, she seized him by the collar, yanked him forward, and forcefully slammed him to the ground.

"What the...?"

"Shut up, you freak!! Who are you and what have you done to my Nik?"

The man was suddenly caught off guard and pushed himself back on his feet while maintaining a safe distance between himself and his girlfriend. He tried to process her words, not sure if he heard right.

"Who I am? I'm me, you idiot! Nik Ryder."

"Hey, only my boyfriend is allowed to call me an idiot!! How dare you take the form of my boyfriend and propose to me?! You nasty shapeshifter!! Where is my boyfriend??!! Because my Nik never wanted marriage. I caught you, shapeshifter. Where is my Nik?!!", she angrily commanded for an answer.

"And you're damn right about that. I never planned to get married, rook. Until I met you, Alex. You showed me that maybe the idea of commitment wasn't that bad after all. It's me, your Nik who wants to marry you."

"Are you serious?"

"Yeah, I'm damn serious. Being with you changed my perspective. You make me feel complete and I can't imagine my life without you anymore. I thought if I marry you, I'll pull you much more into danger. I have enemies, and I can't risk having you hurt. On the other side, you're damn strong and can defend yourself well even if I just don't want to admit it. I want to stay with you, fight with you, forever be with you, and protect you no matter what. So... What do you say? Will you give me the honor of being my wife? Be mine and nobody else's."

"Oh, Nik... Yes! Yes! Yes!!! I thought you would never ask."

She believed him now, even though she could hardly comprehend what she had just heard. It's a miracle. Her emotions took over, and tears welled up in her chocolate-brown eyes as she happily jumped into his arms. Nik caught her effortlessly in his arms. A mixture of relief and joy washed over him.

"Really? You're saying yes?"

"Sometimes you can be annoying and overprotective for not letting me go on a hunt with you. But yes, I dreamed of marrying you."

"Overprotective? Me? I'm just trying to keep you from getting yourself into dangerous situations, you little trouble magnet."

Still carrying Alex in his strong arms with bridal style, he squeezed her tighter, his voice filled with love and affection.

"But you know what? You're the best trouble I've ever gotten into."

"I'm your only trouble, Nik. Only your's.", she giggled.

He chuckled, gently tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"Damn right, you are. You drive me crazy, make me worry, then always manage to surprise and challenge me. And I wouldn't have it any other way, my dear."

"Don't forget how many times I saved you and your pretty ass."

"Oh, now feeling entitled here? True, you have saved me multiple times, I'll give you that.", he admitted. Placing his girl back on her own feet, he retrieved the ring from the box and held her left hand gently. Taking a moment to look at her, a smile playing on his lips. Then he gently slid the ring onto her finger, admiring how gorgeous it looked on her. Slowly he brought her hand to his lips, placing a soft kiss on her knuckles.

"A beautiful ring for a beautiful woman."

"Wow, it's so beautiful. Is it a diamond ring? I hope it wasn't expensive. That gemstone is so big and..."

"Don't worry, money's not an issue for me. Not when because of protecting you earned me most of the money. And besides, you're worth it. I would do anything to make you happy. You know, I never thought I could love someone as much as I love you. You are my match in every way and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."

"Me neither, future husband."

Nik suddenly smiled at the sound of 'husband' coming from her lips and pulled her closer, kissing her forehead.

"Future husband... I like the sound of that, my future wife."

"Me too, Nik. Soon I'll be Mrs. Ryder."

"Mhm. My wife. I like the sound of that too, dear fiancée. My beautiful fiancée, my future Mrs. Ryder... Damn, I'm such a lucky bastard. The man who will give you his last name. You'll be Alexis Clarissa Ryder."

He gazed at her with affection, still unable to believe that this amazing woman was about to become his wife.

"You know, I have no idea how or when I became so whipped for you. But now there's no turning back. I love you more than anything, Alex. And I can't wait to start this new chapter of our lives together."

"Oh Nik, after marriage, I'll be your honey, your love, your angel, your princess, your goddess, your queen. And I'll give you several cute nicknames too. You'll be my darling, my babe, my cutie-pie, my..."

"Please don't!!"

"We'll be the cutest bickering monster hunter couple ever. And the hottest, of course.", she giggled while admiring her engagement ring.

He heartily laughed and nuzzled her neck. His breath was hot against her skin.

"Oh, we will be the hottest, alright. And the loudest, and the most stubborn, and the most badass couple everyone has ever seen."

Later, that night in the Graveyard Shift, Nik Ryder was too nervous to announce the news to their friends. It took Alex a lot of convincing till he found the courage.

Taking a deep breath, he felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. Alex, who was now his fiancée stood next to him by his side, giving him a reassuring smile. Then the couple turned to their friends, his voice slightly shaky.

"Hey, guys... I have an announcement to make."

"Hello, Nik. Hello Alex. How are you?"

"Hi, guys."

"Hey, Ryder. What's up?"

Nik took another breath and cleared his throat before continuing. He could feel everyone's eyes on him. The anticipation in the room was palpable.

"So... um... I have something to tell you all."

"Yeah?"

"I... um... Alex and I..."

"Yeah? What about you two? We're listening.", Katherine asked, wanting to know it already.

The nervous man glanced at his fiancée again. Seeing the smile on her face gave him courage to continue.

"Alex and I... Alex and I are getting married."

"What??!!"

"You're kidding, right?"

"No way. Impossible!!"

"Wait, Nik is telling the truth. He proposed to me!", Alex squeaked out in excitement, showing everyone the diamond engagement ring on her finger.

A chorus of surprised reactions filled the room as the news sank in. There were gasps, jaws dropping, and some enthusiastic cheers and congratulations.

"You're still joking, right?", Vera happily giggled who still couldn't believe the news.

"No, I'm not joking. We're serious.", he nervously chuckled while feeling glad to finally let the news out. Now, he enjoyed the looks of shock and excitement on the faces of their friends as they were still processing the news.

"No way, the Nik Ryder? The Nik Ryder?!!"

"Yeah guys, the great and fearsome Nik Ryder is getting married. You heard right.", Nik chuckled again.

"Are you serious?"

"Dead serious. This incredible woman has somehow convinced me to take this massive leap of faith. Who would've thought, right? But truth be told, I never saw myself getting married either. Until I met her."

"Hey, you better treat Alex well.", Cal warned him before taking another sip from his drink.

"Hell, I promise you all that I would never hurt Alex. Hand in fire because she is everything to me, and I will always make her happy and protect her for the rest of my life. You have my word."

"Nik, if you ever hurt her... We'll kill you."

"Katy, believe me, I know that already. If I ever screw up, you guys would come after me with pitchforks. And honestly, I wouldn't blame you."

"Alex, what have you ever seen in this guy?", Katherine asked, still confused by her friend's choice.

Alexis smiled, her eyes sparkling with love as she answered.

"What haven't I? He's smart, strong, handsome... and surprisingly soft-hearted underneath that tough exterior."

Nik grinned and winked at her lover, trying to appear nonchalant.

"You hear that? She thinks I'm handsome."

The lucky man couldn't help but feel a bit smug at her compliment, but also secretly pleased. He knew he wasn't everyone's cup of tea, with his snarky attitude and rough exterior. But knowing that Alex saw something different in him? That meant the whole damn world to him.

[ladylamrian]

Female Main Character: Clara Sinclaire

Pairing: F!MC×Ernest Sinclaire (married)

Summary: Countess Clara of Edgewater takes her lovely horse, Belle out for a ride 🐎

Word Count: 3.2K words

Rating: General (Fluff, Adventure, Rescue)

Warnings: none (Injury)

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @loreofyore ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; ... [I shortened my Taglist because my Readers wanted to be tagged for Nightbound. For the next D&D fanfictions (if there will ever be ones), nobody gets tagged unless requested] ; @choicesdecember2024 (Prompt: Home)

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's Note: Please have mercy on me since it's my very first Desire & Decorum fanfiction. If I ever write again for this book, I won't tag anyone unless it is requested. Inform me!!!

"I'm heading out for a ride.", his wife informed him as she climbed on the back of her horse, named Belle.

Ernest's expression softened. He knew just how much she cherished these moments with the mare.

"Very well, my dear. But promise me you'll be careful. Belle can be quite spirited."

"Oh, my dear and loving husband. Don't you believe in Team Clara-Belle?", she winked.

Ernest chuckled warmly at her playful remark.

"Of course I do, my love. I have the utmost faith in your skills with that steed. I just happen to like you in a single piece."

"Sure."

With a nod, he released her hand and called put to be safe.

"Be careful. And pat Belle on the nose for me."

Ernest watched her leave. His heart swelled with a mixture of love and worry. He hoped that Clara, with her spirited nature, stayed safe on her ride.

Countess Clara of Edgewater mounted on Belle. Next to her, other ladies on their horses, all eager and excited for a playful race in nature. The soft grass beneath them rustled gently, and the horses seemed to share in their enthusiasm. Clara's eyes glittered with a hint of mischief.

"Ready for a race, ladies?"

Everyone nodded, their horses pawing the ground in anticipation, which made Clara even more excited. She patted Belle's neck affectionately.

"Ready for a race, my girl. We'll show them the power of Clara-Belle."

When the little race finally started, all the horses lurched forward, moving as one. Each rider gripped the reins tightly. Clara, with her intimate knowledge of Belle's speed and the terrain, took the lead. The wind whipped through her brown locks.

The other ladies do their best to catch up, but Clara and Belle are a force to be reckoned with. Clara's skillful guidance and confidence created a seamless bond between woman and horse which propelled them further ahead with each stride.

The young countess laughed heartily, the feeling of triumph rushing through her veins. She patted Belle's neck as they continued to pull further ahead.

Clara glanced over her shoulder and smiled, seeing how far she and Belle had pulled away from the others. The wind rushed past her ears as she called out to her horse.

"We're leaving them in the dust, aren't we, girl? We're Team Clara-Belle, after all. Fast and strong."

Belle nickered in agreement, her strides became even more vigorous as if spurred on by her rider's excitement. The horse's powerful muscles rippled under her, propelling them further and further from the rest of the group.

Clara her focus on guiding Belle, suddenly felt a shift in the horse's stride. Before she could fully process what was happening, Belle let out a sharp whinny and stumbled slightly to the side.

"Belle?!!"

Clara's heart skipped a beat as she frantically tried to regain control, but it was too late. Belle's stumbling turned into a fall, and in a moment of panic, Clara was sent flying from the saddle, landing hard on the grass some distance away.

The rider's body ached from the impact, the shock of the fall left her breathless. She lay there for a moment, trying to assess the damage, but her focus was quickly diverted by a sound that chilled her to the bone... Belle's panicked whinny.

Clara's heart raced as she turned her head and discovered Belle struggling to get up. The beautiful mare twisted her ankle. Her hind legs buckled whenever she tried to put weight on them. Clara, despite her pain, stood up and slowly approached her horse.

"Belle, my girl..."

Belle still whinnied in pain as Clara approached. The animal's brown eyes were wide and filled with fear. It attempted to move but couldn't. The injury was preventing her from standing, let alone moving. Clara's heart aches for her beloved steed. Her hands trembled as she gently touched Belle's injured leg.

"Oh no! My poor Belle..."

A mixture of worry and pain as the young woman examined the injury. Her horse whimpered in response, clearly distressed and in pain. Clara knew that she couldn't move Belle on her own. Belle was too big and too distressed. Panic began to creep into the mind of the young countess as she searched around, hoping for anyone to pass by and help. But the area remained empty and silent. Her face was pale with fear. The realization of their predicament sank in. They're alone, some distance from the estate away. Both were unable to ride and unable to walk back. The only sound was Belle's soft, pain-filled whinnies, echoing through the quiet landscape.

Clara gently placed her shaking hand on Belle's neck, trying to soothe the frightened animal.

"It's going to be alright, girl. We'll find a way."

But the words felt hollow, filled with fear instead of reassurance. For a moment, they sat in silence. The horse's soft breaths were the only sound. The wind had picked up, the chill biting cold against their exposed skin. Clara already shivered in her thin riding clothes. They were miles away from any shelter, and the temperature was dropping rapidly. The thought of spending the night outdoors, injured and exposed, was more than a little frightening. But she pushed that fear down, focusing instead on the hope that someone would find them before nightfall.

When Clara tried to stand, she winced as her sore body protested. It was clear that the fall had left her with bruises and possible injuries, but she still pushed through the pain, gritting her teeth as she rose to her feet. She glanced at Belle and her heart broke at the sight of the helpless horse.

Clara looked around, trying to find something, anything they could use for shelter. The terrain was empty and flat, with no trees or buildings in sight. The wind gusted again, and she shivered, feeling how the coldness had already begun to seep through her clothes. The horse growing restless and agitated by the minute.

The woman sat back down next to Belle, trying to think of a solution. But the coldness was making her head fuzzy, and the pain in her body slowly clouded her thoughts. She wrapped her arms around herself, attempting to keep warm, and huddled closer to her horse for warmth.

"Ernest was right. I should have been more careful."

She let out a small, bitter laugh, and small tears welled up her eyes. Her fingers trembled slightly from the cold. She leaned her head closer against Belle, feeling the horse's soft fur. Trying to soothe herself, to think of a way out of this mess. The sound of the wind howling around them and it was getting darker.

Hours passed slowly, and the night was drawing closer. Clara was exhausted, her body ached and her mind fuzzy. The coldness now had settled deep into her bones, despite the small comfort that Belle's presence provided. The pain in her ankle, coupled with the soreness from the fall, made her breathing ragged. They're in the middle of nowhere, hurt, hungry, thirsty and exhausted.

Suddenly, the sound of horse steps was heard, which caught Clara's attention. She looked up, her heart fluttered with a mixture of hope and anxiety. The steps seemed to get closer, but the darkness made it hard to see anything. The injured lady strained her eyes, trying to make out the form of the approaching guests in the darkness. The wind howled around her, which masked the sound a bit, and for a moment, she was not even sure if it was her mind playing tricks on her or if someone was coming.

It took a little moment until Clara's eyes widened, discovering a figure on horseback approaching. She tried to get to her feet, but her ankle protested making her stumble. So she waved one arm and shouted desperately, trying to get the person's attention.

"Here! Over here!! Help!!"

The mysterious rider seemed to have noticed the movement and guided its horse in their direction, getting closer as the seconds passed.

As the rider approached closer, Clara could just make out the familiar features and stature. It was her husband, Mister Ernest Sinclaire, Master of Ledford. The young man looked panicked. His face filled with worry as he dismounted from his horse and rushed towards her and Belle.

"My Clara!!"

"Ernest?"

Ernest dropped to his knees beside Clara, his eyes scanning her body for any signs of serious injury. His hands moved gently over her skin, checking for wounds as his voice was filled with worry.

"My love, my sweet, my darling, my Clara, are you hurt?"

"How did you find us?"

Mister Sinclaire ran a hand through his soft hair, his expression tense, but a hint of relief in his blue eyes. He glanced at Belle before answering.

"When you didn’t return for dinner, I knew something was wrong. The ladies informed me about your sudden disappearance and looked worried. I saddled my horse and came searching for you."

"Oh Ernest..."

Her husband pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly against his chest. His voice was soft but filled with worry and relief.

"My love, you foolish girl. You could have been hurt, or worse..."

"I'm sorry."

Ernest pulled back slightly, looking at her face. His heart nearly broke at the sight of her tired, bruised face. His hand raised to cradle her cheek with a gentle touch.

"I'm not angry, my love. I'm just so relieved you're safe. But promise me, promise me you'll be more careful from now on."

"I promise."

The young man gave her a soft smile, pressing a gentle kiss against her forehead. He held her a moment longer before standing up, moving to check on Belle. The horse whimpered as he touched her. The injury was indeed painful.

He examined the injury with a serious expression. Running his hand gently over Belle's leg, checking the swelling and the stability of the joint. He looked up at Clara, his mouth set in a grim line.

"It's sprained at the very least. The poor thing is in pain."

"How will we get her home?"

He glanced at the horses and it took a silent moment until an idea slowly formed up in his mind. He knew it was not ideal, but they didn't have many options.

"My love, you ride my horse, and I'll walk. We'll have to build a travois. With branches and rope, we might be able to make something that can support Belle's weight without further hurting her leg. Me and my horse will pull the travois with Belle on it."

And with that, Ernest Sinclaire began to look around, hunting for long enough sticks and searching for rope or cloth that could serve as a support. The night was fully set, the stars their only light source in the pitch-black field.

As he worked, he glanced over at his wife, trying to keep his worry at bay. Clara's face was drawn with exhaustion, and he knew she was holding on by a thread. The travois needed to be done quickly. The sooner they could move, the better.

Eventually, Ernest managed to gather enough sticks and found some rope in his horse's saddle bag. With determination, he set work on building the travois, tying the sticks together and making sure they were sturdy enough to support Belle's weight.

As the travois slowly took shape, he looked up to see that Clara had managed to mount his horse, holding the reins with stiff, trembling hands. A wave of worry washed over him again at the sight of her. She should be resting, not worrying about all this.

When the man tied the final knots on the travois, he approached to his brown-colored horse and Clara. His voice gentle but firm as he spoke.

"Love, I need you to ride slowly and carefully. Belle's on a travois behind us and will be uncomfortable. You cannot jostle her too much. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Ernest."

His heart broke at the exhaustion in her voice. He wished he could take away all the pain and worry, but they were still far from safe. He reached up, gently touching her knee.

"Clara, I know you're tired, believe me, I know. But we have no other option but to keep moving. We will rest once we're back home, once we've got you and Belle safe. Just hold on a little while longer."

"You're walking? Are you sure?"

"Yes, love. I'll walk beside you. It won't slow us down that much. And you need the rest more than I do. Just let me guide the horse while you hang on, alright?"

He took the reins and led his horse forward, gently encouraging the animal to step forward. The travois with Belle on it follows, its wheels making a soft grating sound on the rough ground.

As the party slowly began to move. The only sounds were the soft huffing breaths of the horses, the crunch of the wheels on the ground, and Belle's soft whimpers. Clara's eyes were half-lidded with exhaustion, her body trembled with the cold and the exhaustion.

Ernest was also tired and focused on walking. He knew Clara and Belle were both injured and exhausted, and that every step was a challenge, but he pushed forward. When he glanced back at Clara, he saw how she was struggling to stay awake and on the horse.

"Love, you need to stay awake, you cannot sleep on the horse. Not yet. Just a little bit longer, I promise you'll sleep in a nice warm bed once we're back."

"I'm worried about Belle."

"I know, my love. So am I. But we're getting closer to the estate with every step. Sir Luke Harper will take perfect care of Belle. Soon, you can both rest. Almost there..."

Minutes, hours, a lifetime seemed to pass. But eventually, the familiar sight of Edgewater estate came into view. The buildings were faintly lit in the distance, and relief flooded through Ernest's chest. They made it. They're safe. He glanced back at Clara, a small smile on her face too.

When they reached the stables, he took the horses into their boxes, then turned back to Clara, helping her down from the saddle and supporting her tired body.

The man pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly against his chest.

"My love, you did great. You're safe now. We're home."

"Ernest, my love... You saved us."

He held her close, his arms tight around her. He rested his chin on the top of her head, his exhaustion finally caught up with him. He could see the other staff running out to help, but for a moment he just held Clara and ignored the surroundings. His heart filled with gladness that they were in Edgewater, safe and together now.

"You need to get warm and rest, my love. Let the staff help you inside. I need to take care of Belle."

"But she's my horse."

"I know, Clara. Belle means a lot to you. And Sir Harper is very skilled and will take good care of Belle. But you need to rest too. Let me take you inside."

"Yes, please."

Ernest nodded and wrapped an arm around her waist to support her weary body. He helped her walk slowly towards the house, his movements gentle and caring. He could feel how tired his Clara was, and it pained him to see her like this. But he knew that soon she'd be warm and comfortable, safe and sound in their manor. When Ernest noticed her stumble, he reacted quickly. He caught her, pulling his wife gently against his side, holding her up. His eyes scan her face, filled with worry.

"Careful, my love. Are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm good. Just tripped, but I'm good."

"Good. Hang on to me, Clara. We're almost there."

"Ernest, I'm the countess of this estate and look like a mess. Hurry upstairs, I don't want anyone to see me like this."

"My love, even when you're exhausted and disheveled, you're still the most beautiful countess and woman in all of Great Britain.", he chuckled and kissed her cheek. Despite the situation, he couldn't help but tease her wife a bit.

"Ernest..."

His heart lightened at the sight of her expression as he continued walking towards the house with his arm tight around her waist.

"Oh, don't give me that look. You know I'm right."

Eventually, they reached the front steps of the house, where only a few of the staff were awake. The rest of the house and family members were already asleep, unaware of the events. The doors of the estate opened for them, and the warm light from inside shined out into the night. Ernest guided Clara through the threshold, his hand still on her waist, supporting her.

"I want the bed now."

"Of course, love. The bed, some food, clean clothes... You'll have it all, anything you want. First, let's get you upstairs. You look like you're about to fall over."

He led her to the staircase, his pace slow and patient as he took the time to help her up each step. His own blue eyes heavy with tiredness, but his care for her never wavered.

Eventually, they reached their chambers. Ernest helped his wife inside. A welcome sight after their long journey. The bed looked soft and inviting. The warm fireplace was already lit and crackling.

He guided her towards the bed, helping her to sit down, and leaned her against the piles of pillows.

"You're safe, my love. You're home."

"I hope Belle..."

"Shhh... My dear Clara darling... Sir Luke Harper will now take good care of her tonight. You need to rest and trust him. And we'll check on Belle first thing in the morning."

"Thanks."

"Of course, my love. It's the least I can do. Now, lay back. You need to rest."

Ernest smiled softly, watching as Clara closed her eyes and started to drift off. He reached forward, gently tucking the blankets around her, making sure she was comfortable and warm. A sigh of relief escaped his lips. They're safe, they're home, and she's finally getting the rest she so desperately needed.

The morning sun was just starting to peek over the horizon as Ernest and Clara made their way down to the stables. The air was crisp and chilly. The morning dew still clinging to the grass. When the couple reached the stables, the familiar sounds and smells of the horses filled the air. The husband lead her towards Belle's stable. His heart was heavy with concern as they didn't know what condition the poor horse might be in.

The horse was lying down, several soft bedrolls and blankets placed beneath her to provide some comfort. A fresh bandage around Belle's injured leg. Immediately, Clara hugged Belle, which brought a soft smile to his face. Ernest could see the relief and love in Clara's eyes as she gently caressed the horse's head. Belle whickered softly, but she responded to Clara's touch and her muscles relaxed slightly.

It was clear that the horse and the countess shared a special bond. A connection that went beyond mere friendship. They're practically inseparable. Two souls joined together by their mutual strength and spirit. That was Team Clara-Belle.

[ladylamrian]

- Chapter 10: Lady Shadow (Last Chapter!!)

[ Please read past chapters before this ]

-> Masterlist of this Mini Series <-

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Other characters in this chapter: Katherine, Vera Reimonenq, Cal Lowell, Luc

Summary: An unexpected person helps them to get back home.

Word Count: 1.7K words

Rating: Teen (Mystery, Angst)

Warnings: none

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @mikaelsrose ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @loreofyore

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

GIF interpretation: Alex kisses Nik awake.

"Woah... Nik and crying? That must be a very hard one. I hope I didn't look like that before I woke up. He looks horrible. I need to make a photo for blackmailing attempts."

"Katherine, don't be always so harsh to him. We were all crying until Cal found us and woke us up from the nightmare vision.", Vera calmly whispered, her eyes still filled with tears from the nightmare she had.

"I think Nik looks cute."

"Do you like seeing him cry, Alex?"

"No, of course not. I just said that he looks and that's it. Now let's wake up our crying baby boy.", she leaned closer to Nik and planted a warm kiss on his cheeks.

To awaken Alex's sleeping prince, Nik Ryder, and shield him from nightmares and horrifying visions. The man slowly fluttered his swollen eyes open as he was lying on the floor facing his loyal companions, Cal, Katherine, Vera, and Alex.

"What the...?"

"Good morning, my sleeping beauty. Awake?", Alex sobbed, still remembering her own vision from before.

"Alex?"

"It was just a bad dream you had. Whatever it was, it's not true. You're appreciated and loved no matter what. We're glad to have you, Nik.", she whispered, bent over his body, and cupped his face, stroking it softly.

"But Alex, it felt so real. What if it happens? What if it's a sign? I don't want to lose you again, rook."

"Shhh, don't worry. You won't get rid of that easily. If it wasn't for both of us, we would have never met or gotten that close befriended with Cal, Katherine, and Vera. Nik, if we hadn't met, I would've never found out that I was a fae or who my real father was. We would have never defeated the bloodwraith. We would have never... It's all because of you, Nik. Thank you.", she thanked him, but also thanked Fate who or which brought them together. Bound by Fate.

"Thanks, rook. I hope you didn't wake everyone up with a kiss and just only me. How is that even possible cuz this happens only in fairytales?" he nervously asked, which made her giggle. The tension from the nightmares somehow faded away, and everyone felt a little lighter now.

"Of course not, Nik. The kiss was only for you, my Prince of Swords. And if unicorns, fae, and werewolves existed in fairytales and our world, then why can't I wake you up with a fairytale kiss?"

"True.", he chuckled while she helped him up, so both could stand on their feet next to their friends.

"Thanks to Cal, we could all wake just in time, one by one. Or else we would have all stayed captured in this place, this world, this dimension forever. Captured in our nightmares."

"Sometimes I'm glad to be a werewolf for service, Katherine. Now that my precious pack is back and united... Let's find a way back home."

"But what if we try to find the mirror that leads us back home and end up in a nightmare or bad vision again?" Katherine asked.

"Perhaps I could help?" a mysterious but familiar voice from the shadows. It was too dark to see until slowly the mysterious figure stepped out from the shadows. Elegantly dressed in a black robe, smokey make-up, and black gloves... It was her. The Vera Reimonenq from the different dimensions looked a little different than the original, but not that much. That mysterious beauty in the shadows finally showed herself to the group.

"You're the other Vera, right? We need your help. Could you please...?", Alex got interrupted by her friend's doppelganger.

"Pardon me, but I was Vera. Now, I'm Lady Shadow, and you have entered my territory.", she spoke, which shocked the whole group.

Even the real Vera was shocked about her look-alike, parted her glossy lips, and couldn't understand what changed her like that. She would never want to follow in her mother's footsteps.

"But how? What made you...?", Katherine dared to ask, but the mysterious woman ignored her. Her dark eyes landed on Vera who stood with her friends.

"Is she a shapeshifter, or why does she look like the old me?", she calmly asked, and the real Vera Reimonenq confidently stepped up to answer.

"I'm Vera Reimonenq from another dimension than you. I don't know what happened to you or in your life, but I request you to lead us to the golden-framed mirror which you just bought hours ago. It's the only way for me and my friends to return back to our world before it's too late. It's no ordinary mirror, but a portal."

"And why should I help someone who looks like me or strangers who I don't know? Besides, your silver-haired friend doesn't trust me anymore because who knows what Elijah Ryder told you about me. I'm not like my mother and I wanted to tell you myself that I'm cursed, but he pushed you to stay away from me for your safety."

"It wasn't me, but my own doppelganger. Is that the reason why you ran away from me when I called you? There must be a misunderstanding between you and the Alex from your world because your friendship means a lot to me. I'm sorry to hear this.", Alex explained, stepped closer and gently squeezed her shoulder.

"Vera, you're the sweetest person of all. Don't become like your mother because you're stronger. And we all are lucky to have you as a friend.", Cal added which lifted the heart of both Vera's.

"Don't worry, I may be Lady Shadow but I'm not like my mother. I live in the Shadows of my mother to serve justice and support the innocent ones in the World of Day and the World of Night. My mom and nobody else even realize when I plot something behind her back because I'm Lady Shadow for her and the public. The one who stays hidden like a shadow."

"Damn, Lady Shadow sounds even more cunning and dangerous than Lady Smoke. That's just brilliant.", Nik chuckled. He was amazed just like everyone else in the group.

"Our Vera is a fighter!! At least one of our doppelgangers hasn't changed into a bad one."

"You're amazing, Vee." Katherine praised and gave a soft punch on her shoulder to encourage her.

So many good words, positive emotions, and encouragement, which the Shadow Vera hadn't received for such a long time, lifted her spirit. Now, she was very sure that she was doing the right thing. Even when it looked like for everyone, that she was supporting her mother with her criminal deeds. Hopefully, one day, her old friend, Alex, the huntress, will find out the truth and realize that Vera is not like her mother after all. She hadn't changed and was still the lovely friend she first met.

And with that, Lady Shadow finally guided the group of friends towards the mirror they were all searching for. She promised them after they leave, to immediately destroy the mirror so that nobody would ever again accidently enter the portal. Their key back home. Just in time before sunrise, they stepped inside one by one. At first, Nik hestitated to finally leave the world where his parents and Elijah were alive, but holding his girlfriend's hand gave him courage. And then they entered... And faced a bright light. They were falling.

"Wake up, mon amies.", a familiar voice with a French accent called out. Alexis felt a warm hand shaking her by the shoulder. Her chocolate-brown eyes fluttered slowly open and she found herself lying on the floor of Luc's souvenir shop in New Orleans. Next to her was Katherine, rubbing her eyes open while Luc helped Vera up on her feet. Nik stretched himself while, next to him, Cal was already awake.

"What happened? Where are we?", Vera asked. She felt dizzy, disorientated until Luc guided her on a chair.

"Mon chérie, everything is fine. You all found Alex and made it back. Do you all need a glass of water?"

Everyone declined Luc's kind offer because they started to feel better. Dizziness was only a short side-effect of traveling across different dimensions, and they soon felt better.

"Hey, we all made it just in time back home!!", Cal cheered.

"Not so fast, buddy. Are we really back in our world or...?"

"Nik, Luc recognizes us all. Right, Luc?"

"Mais oui, why wouldn't I? I'm so happy you found Alexis. Who thought this mirror would turn out to be a portal? But I'm glad I found out just in time through with my magical crystal ball which showed me what I needed to know. I immediately informed you all about the missing of our Alexis. She stood there, I went to the backroom and et viola... Poof!! And she was gone."

"Well, we're all together now. That's what matters. Back united like it was meant to be.", Alex answered.

Bound by Fate. A roguish nighthunter. A lonely werewolf. A strong huntress. A beautiful Reimonenq. And at last, a half-fae royalty. All with a difficult past behind them, became together a group of heroes. And friends. To protect the World of Day and the World of Night from evil. One depended on the other. This crazy, little adventure they just had made them realize how important each of them was. Their lives, despite their unhappy backstory, wouldn't be the same ones they would have now if even one of them was missing. They shared a bond. Enjoy the happy and positive things instead of regretting the past. Be happy and enjoy the little moments with friends, family, and lovers. Treasure them in your heart and shine bright.

"I love you, Nik. I missed you and I got so worried about us. I don't want to lose you.", Alex confessed.

Nik moved closer to his girlfriend, wrapped his strong arms around her slim body for comfort, and rested his face on hers.

"God, I'm so sorry for all the pain I caused you. Forgive me. I can't live without you and it killed me every second, every heartbeat we were apart. I swear it won't happen again. And you know that I... I love you too, rook. Till the death.", he whispered before they kissed.

[ladylamrian]

- Chapter 9: Mirror & Smoke (2nd last part)

[ Please read past chapters before this ]

-> Masterlist of this Mini Series <-

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Other characters in this chapter: Katherine, Vera Reimonenq, Cal Lowell, Luc

Summary: Time's running... Where's the mirror?

Word Count: 3.2K words

Rating: Teen (Angst)

Warnings: Language, Death, Depression

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @mikaelsrose ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @loreofyore ;

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

GIF interpretation: Alex crying after meeting Elric, her father.

"Luc, we're all here!!! Now get us all out of this darn dimension", Nik commanded as he entered his magical souvenir shop, followed by Vera, Cal, and Katherine while holding Alex's hand. Yes, Alex and Nik were holding hands... They're back together again.

Luc was present in his shop and shocked about the many visitors at night. He quickly closed the front doors of the shop after they all entered and turned his attention back towards the group.

"Excuse moi? What is going on?"

"No time for explaining, other Luc. Where's the large mirror?", Katherine asked as everyone looked around for the mirror. The shop was much more cleaned and organized now than the last time they visited.

"Luc, where is the large, golden-framed mirror standing now? In the backroom maybe?"

"Katherine, Alex chérie, why is the werewolf here with you? I thought he... And who's that man with a crossbow? And this beautiful lady here?" he analyzed the friend's group, also noticing that Katherine and Alex have fewer scars now. Vera blushed at his compliment. Before anyone could say more, Katherine and Nik asked him again about the mirror.

"Mais oui, the large mirror. Why asking me when the pretty lady knows about it?", he winked at Vera.

"Me??! What are you saying, Luc?"

"Enough time wasted, just show us the mirror. We don't have much time, Luc."

"Mon amies, I don't have it anymore. I just sold it a few hours ago."

"What??!!"

Everyone was shocked after they found out that Luc just sold the mirror, which was the key and the only way to get the friend group back to their dimension, their home.

"What the damn hell, Luc?!!! It was no ordinary mirror. It was a portal and we need it. Who did you sell it too? We need it back as soon as possible."

"Nik's right, we need it asap. You always check before selling things and now... Where can we find it?"

"Katherine, the buyer is right here. I sold it to the beautiful, petite lady. ", Luc answered and pointed at Vera.

"Me??!! But I didn't...", she was confused until Alex figured out the situation.

"Vera, it must have been your doppelganger. The Vera from this dimension. We have to find her. I saw her before, but she ran away after seeing me."

"Where could she be now?", Cal asked.

"Time to pay Lady Smoke a little visit, gang.", Nik suggested and turned towards the exit. Leaving Luc's shop, they headed towards Club Persephone to find their way back home.

The well-lit hallways were covered with expensive paintings on each side of the walls. People and members of the supernatural elite strolled on the red carpet beneath. The air was thick of perfumes-elegant and masculine, sometimes too much and choking. Nik, Cal, Katherine, Vera, and Alex entered a huge ballroom with huge chandeliers dripping from the ceiling like crystal waterfalls, reflecting shards of blue and violet light in all directions. No expenses were spared for the Crescent City's supernatural elite. The dance floor was occupied by couples, humans, and night creatures alike, while lounge booths provided spots for everyone to mingle. Several bars were placed which surrounded the room.

The gang was lucky to have Vera Reimonenq with them to get entrance into her mother's club without any invitation, signet ring, or dress code. They could easily enter with her the private areas which were even forbidden for some Persephone members.

"Where will we even find the mirror or the other Vera? What if Vera in this dimension is different and won't help us? I mean, we're in Lady Smoke's territory, and who knows how dangerous the one from this world could be..."

"Don't worry, Cal. Vera is Vera, the sweetest person we know. She would never try to harm us or do any bad things.", Alex convinced everyone and sweetly smiled at her.

"Thanks, you're so adorable.", Vera smiled back at her.

"What the hell??!!!!", they turned around and discovered Katherine, who had opened a door and froze as if she had discovered something unexpected and surprising. The rest huddled behind her to see what was inside the room and immediately reacted like her. Shocked. An unexpected discovery. The room was filled with maby kind of mirrors. Small mirrors, large mirrors, mirrors hanging on the wall and large mirrors standing on the floor. Framed, unframed and mirrors in many diffrent shapes.

"I should have known where the mirror was put. Friends, welcome to the Hall of Mirrors. A Reimonenq collection."

"Seriously, Vee, your ancestor collected hands, and your mother collects mirrors?! Any collecting hobby you have too? Damn, how are we ever gonna find the right mirror?!!"

"Sorry Nik, sorry everyone. I should have known it would be here, so we wouldn't have wasted any more time. I forgot about this room, but honestly... I went never inside it either because I was forbidden to."

"Why?"

"I don't know, but I have a bad feeling about it."

"But there are soooo many mirrors, probably hundred, and we less than two hours left before sunrise. We can't just analyze all of them in such a short..."

"Less talkin', more searching. Hurry!!"

Carefully without having any other choice, one by one, they entered the mysterious room and decided to split up to quickly find the right one. Time was running.

She saw her reflection everywhere. The room was filled with many different mirrors that surrounded her, and one of them could be the key back home to her dimension. The only thing left was to find the right one. Alex walked and searched around while picturing the missing item in her mind. It was a large, golden-framed mirror standing about two meters high, but currently nowhere to be found.

"Where could the mirror be? I hope... Huh?", she immediately stopped as she realized a mysterious mirror showing a diffrent reflection than the others one which was just ordinary. It showed...

"Father?!!"

Lord Elric was silently standing in front of her, just watching her without saying anything. She could feel the sudden coldness... Did the temperature just decrease within seconds? Or was it the cold look on her father's face?

"Father, what are you doing here? I..."

"Don't you dare to call me your father? I'm not yours anymore. Thalissa and showered you with all the love and affection. I even risked my life for you, but instead... You left us. You left Lamrian and Thalissa. You let me die. And we lost Tialo."

"No, I... What?!! But father... I love you. Please...",

Alex's legs couldn't carry her anymore as sadness overtook her. She fell on the floor, tears welled up in her chocolate-brown eyes after hearing her father's harsh words [GIF used above].

"I should have listened to Tialo. You're nothing but a threat. Go back to Jacqueline, I never want to see you ever again.", his now thundery voice echoed around the room.

"But father, don't you love me? You know that the bloodwraith only entered because Tialo..."

"I don't want to see you. You're a disappointment and I reject you as my own blood."

"Father, no!!! Nooo!!! Please... I...", she sobbed, trying to explain but her emotions took her and she couldn't stop crying.

"I never want to see you ever again. Get out of my sight, halfling.", Elric's thundery voice echoed across the hall.

Her beautiful dark eyes scanned the dark surroundings. Katherine, the nighthunter, concentrated not to miss any single detail as she strolled across the room to find the golden-framed mirror which would lead the friends back from where they came from.

"Katherine...", an old familiar voice called her which made her frown. Was is... Was her? Or was she just imagining it? She wasn't sure until the same voice called her again which made her worry.

"It can't be...", she couldn't believe it and turned around to face the figure who was calling her.

A human figure in a bright blue color floated in front of her. A ghost.

"Ava? Is that you?" she whispered, almost not daring to face her childhood friend she grew up with in New Mexico.

The girl was just silently watching her with dead eyes, which horrified even Katherine, one of the strongest women. It took another minute before she dared to speak again.

"Ava?"

Her words now echoed across the room which finally caught the blue girl's attention. When she finally faced Katherine, her face immediately showed hatred and disgust.

"There you are, Katherine. Finally! Took you very long.", she snapped at her without even glancing at her friend's tears.

"Ava, I... I'm sorry. Please..."

"I don't need your apologies, Katherine. My life was ruined. I'm dead. Died at a young age because you wanted to... It was your idea!! Ugghh, I should have never agreed with your stupid idea. I'm dead because of you while you're alive.", Ava's ghost yelled which made Katherine cry even more.

"I'm so sorry, I miss you. Ava, I miss you so much."

"You don't miss me, Kate. You're selfish!! You moved on and made new friends while I suffered as a ghost. That's unfair!! I want you dead too. You must die too!!", the friend furiously confessed which brought Katherine a huge shock. All the strong nighthunter could do was cry on the cold floor and beg for mercy and forgiveness about the past.

For someone who lived in her mother's mansion, Vera Reimonenq always got astonished when she found out about things she didn't knew before. At least the Hall of Mirrors was no secret to her, even though she always wondered why her mother collected many strange items. Collecting mirrors was a way for Tonya Reimonenq (as known as Lady Smoke) to admire her beauty in all different angles.

"Dear mother, why all these mirrors?", Vera got exhausted, hoping to find what they were seeking soon enough and get out of this place. After a few steps, she heard her friends whisper something to eachother. The hushed voices grew louder and louder.

"Are you sure about Vera, Alex?"

"Vera's our friend. Well, more like Kristin's friend. But she might be useful to have in our group, Katherine."

"She's a darn Reimonenq and never trust a Reimonenq, rook."

"I know, but if we make her believe that we're on the same side and her friends, Vera could be very useful. Perhaps spill some dirty secrets out. She's not our friend, but a weapon to use against Lady Smoke."

Vera couldn't believe her ears. It can't be her friends taking advantage of her and their friendship. She swooped around the corner and immediately hid behind a mirror. The source of the voices appeared to be her friends indeed. Alex, Nik, Katherine and Cal.

"I cannot be friends with a girl whose mother tried to kill Donny, my brother. Lady Smoke's the one who made him fight that minotaur. We shouldn't trust... Oh! Vera?!", Cal got startled as Vera suddenly appeared in front of her friends.

"What is going on here?" she wished for an explanation while she was nervously fumbling with her stylish gloves.

"Oh, Vera!! We... Uhh, nothing. Have you found what we were looking for?"

"No, Katherine."

"Then why are you standing here? It's your home, so you should know where to find it."

"Sorry, but... Why are you all searching together while I'm alone? I thought we'd split up."

The group looked with uneasy gazes at each other, not sure how to answer Vera's question. The silence didn't last long because Vera was determined to know what was going on.

"Could you please explain?"

"Cuz your a damn Reimonenq.", Nik muttered.

"What?? What does it have to do with...?"

"Don't listen to Nik, Vera. You know how he is and...", Alex tried to smoothen the situation until Katherine interrupted.

"Alex, please... I can't act nice to her anymore. I just can't!! I want to let it all out. I'm tired of it. She may be Kristin's friend and perhaps your's too, but not our friend. Am I right, Cal and Nik?"

"Born a Reimonenq, always a Reimonenq. And never trust a Reimonenq.", Nik declared and Cal surprisingly agreed with him.

Silence hung in the air for a long moment until Vera finally dared to speak. Her beautiful dark eyes sparkled with tears.

"I... I never thought you all would think about me like this that way. I thought... I thought we were friends. Don't tell me that you used me to easily enter Persephone every time?", she tried not to cry.

"I'm sorry, Vera. But it's the truth. You were never one of us. Never."

"Dad?!!"

Nik froze at the sight of his adoptive father, Elijah, standing with a crossed arm in front of him. It can't be... He died years ago. Could it be Elijah Ryder from this dimension in which Nik and his friends accidentally landed? If yes, then what is he doing in the Reimonenq mansion? Answers... But instead, the old man kept glaring at Nik. After a long silence, he finally spoke.

"My son in the enemy's lair. My own son ain't stop to disappoint me, am I right?"

"What?"

"Is this what I taught you? To trust a Reimonenq? Work together with another nighthunter? Get involved with a werewolf? And even unbelievable... To fall in love??!", Elijah's words thundered which made Nik feel even smaller and weaker.

"But Dad..."

"Listen, boy, you work alone and shall never trust another person. That's what I taught you. Be careful, or else you'll end up being hurt at the end."

"I know, but they're not like this. My friends... I mean, my crew always had and still have my back. They're worthy to..."

"Having alliances is good, but be careful not to get too much attached with 'em, boy. Especially with that chick of yours."

"Alex."

"Yeah, that's her name. Love makes weak, son. I don't want y'a to get in danger cuz of her. Stay professional. There's no place making lovey-dovey for a true nighthunter. How else will y'a keep the world safe? Don't get distracted and remember your task of living. The hunt is y'a life. You are the hunt.", he explained while pressing his index finger on his chest.

"But Alex... I have fallen in love with her and I never felt that way to any person ever before. She's different. Special. I broke my rules for her.", the young nighthunter felt a lump stuck in his throat while confessing his true feelings.

"Son, you're alive because of a nighthunter and this is what you do?"

"Dad, I'm still a nighthunter!!"

"No, a true nighthunter doesn't get distracted. To protect the innocents and the worlds. And relationships aren't for our kind because they get in the way. We can't hold 'em. Either we fight or die. You've sworn an oath, son. You have to end your relationship with her."

"Dad... Please..." he whispered while trying to hold back his tears. Tears he never thought would appear.

"Can't bear to see her with another lover, right? Boy, it's whether me who raised you or her!! Me or her? Just look at ya... Already weak. Crying like a six-year-old. Men don't cry. They don't show weakness. Especially not for a woman. *Love is to destroy, and to be loved is to be destroyed." [*Shadowhunters Quote]

"Dad, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.", Nik was shaking, as fear and sadness overtook him. Tears streamed like an endless waterfall.

His dark eyes darted everywhere. He and his friends had to find the special mirror to enter back to their dimension before it was too late. Cal Lowell focused on this goal because that's where he belonged. To be with his dear brother, Donny again.

"I'll be back soon, Donny. I promise.", he promised himself while searching for the large mirror that would lead him and his friends back home.

"Then hurry, bro!!"

"Donny?" he called out as he recognized his younger brother's voice, who was now standing in front of him. He couldn't believe his eyes. It was Donny. It was him.

"Don't get much surprised, bro. I'm here to get you out.", he chuckled after seeing Cal's shocked expression on his face.

"But how? The mirror..."

"Yes, I found it. Come with me, I'll show you."

"But? What are you doing here? And...?"

"Doesn't matter. Don't you want to come home with me?"

"Of course, just let me get the others."

"But bro, we don't have time to look for them. Come with me.", Donny requested, stretching his arm out to prevent his brother from leaving him.

"But Don, we can't just leave them here alone in this strange world. They're with us."

"I know, but we don't have much time. They're not alone when they have each other. Please, come with me and never leave me alone again. I need you, bro."

"But... They're our friends. They count on us and a Pack member would never leave another one out. My friends are my pack and perhaps the only pack we have, Donny. Loyalty means a lot to me."

"So you care more about them than me? Seriously bro? Would Dad be proud of you when he sees how you choose them over your little brother?", Donny's voice trembled with disappointment and fear because he only wants his brother back and nothing more. Then the little boy began to cry. Shedding tears that broke his brother's heart.

"Hey, you know it's not true. I love you, bro. More than anything. It's my biggest nightmare to see you heartbroken. We'll be all home soon after we find our friends, okay?" Cal promised as he tried to calm him down by wrapping his strong arms around him for support.

"No, Cal... If you cared about me, you wouldn't have left me alone.", he sobbed as he rested his face on his older brother's chest.

"So, what's the matter? I never have seen you like this. I beg you to calm down because your sadness destroys me. Don't cry, Don. It won't take long for us wolves to find our friends. Just follow instincts and nose. Let me track their scent.", he requested and began sniffing the air for the others until... Cal pushed Donny away out of fear.

"Hey, what was that for?"

"Donny, you have no scent. You don't have any scent at all. It can't be."

"Perhaps this place is..."

"No, you're not my Donny because I would recognize my brother's scent anywhere. I can smell myself, but not you. You're not Donny. Who are you?", the man slowly backed away from him and glared at him with high alert.

"Dad would be so disappointed in you, bro."

"I'm not scared."

"You should be."

"No, I'm not scared. And you're not my Donny because he would never be like this. We don't leave anyone behind.", he spoke with confidence and bravery. That bravery unmasked the reality because there was no Donny here anymore. He never was. Tricked by the mirrors which trapped the person in one of their fears. And Cal's fear was to let his brother down which he now would never allow that. Because he's strong and now more determined than ever to bring himself and his friends back home in their own dimension.

[ladylamrian]

Tumblr Top 5 [2024]

A Winter in Wyoming (F!MC×Nik - Fluff)

Fragile (F!MC×Nik - Pure Angst)

Bound by Fate Series (F!MC×Nik ; ... - Drama)

One Special Day (F!MC×Nik - Romance)

Kit meets Rook (F!MC×Mal & F!MC×Nik - Fun)

My Favorite Top 5 [2024]

The Royal Academy (TRR×COP×NB×BOLAS)

Forever Royal (F!MC×Nik - High Drama)

Fragile (F!MC×Nik - Pure Angst)

Jacqueline's Return (F!MC×Nik - High Drama)

Funko Pop Love (F!MC×NikRyder - Fluff Comedy)

Tagging @choicesficwriterscreations (updated)

[ladylamrian]

I'd love to participate with my characters:

Alexis Clarissa Fontaine (Female, Fair Face, Brown Eyes, Silvery-wavy-long hair) × Nik Ryder (White, Blond Hair, Silver-Blue Eyes) - Nightbound

Astrid (Female, Human, Fair Face, Blonde Braided Hair, Blue Eyes) × Mal Volari (Book 1 Hair & Outfit) × Prince Aerin Valleros (Book 1 Hair & Outfit) - BOLAS , Love Triangle (2 boys love 1 girl)

Clara (Female, White Fair Face, Long, brown locks) × Ernest Sinclaire - Desire & Decorum

Our 2024 Secret Pal Exchange is here!

The dates of the event are TBD: you can vote here. December 21-22 is leading. Whatever is leading by the end of day Nov. 30 EST will be what we choose.

What it is:

Simply put, it's secret Santa

Everyone who shows interest in participating will be given a secret pal for whom they should create a small work (drabble, art, edit, moodboard, etc).

How to participate:

Reblog this post stating your interest AND include your top 3 books/characters/pairings to help guide the person who receives you as their pal on what they should create for you (reblogs that do not include a top 3 will not be considered entries for participation)

or, message me here (@choicesfandomappreciation) or at @lovealexhunt stating your interest and include your top 3 picks

Note: When listing your interests, please include any preferred gender/pronouns/race or other customizations you may have

Please only sign up to participate if you plan to follow through and create for your pal

If there is a user or a particular sub fandom (ie-Open Heart), that you don't want to create for, just send me a message—no questions asked, no judgement. I'm happy to do whatever I can to make the event safe and welcoming for all!

The deadline to sign up to participate is December 6th

What comes next:

On, or about, December 7th, I will message you with your secret pal and what they listed as their top 3 interests

You create something for them based on their interests and post it for them from December ####* (date open to change based on poll)

It would also be really nice if you could include a brief positive message of encouragement and/or support with your creation for your match

Please tag @choicesfandomappreciation and #ChoicesSecretPal24 well so I can keep track of who posted and who is missing.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out. It should be a wonderful event that spreads joy and cheer in our fandom. ❤️❤️❤️

[ladylamrian]

✨️ Holidays with the Fae

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairings: F!MC×Nik/F!MC×Cal/F!MC.../ none

Summary: Christmas is coming... Will Alex have her Happy Holidays with her friends?

Word Count: 7.9K words

Rating: General (Fluff, Adventure, Winter's Past, Friends)

Warnings: none

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @jdstar88 ; @tessa-liam ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: Old fanfic rewritten.

The streets of New Orleans darkened under a starry sky, a winter breeze spread around the people and Christmas was only a few days away. Alexis Clarissa Fontaine was on her way to the Graveyard Shift to meet her friends when her eyes fell on a happy family walking down the street. They were carrying Christmas presents in their hands, wrapped in glittering paper, and the little boy started gushing about how he couldn't wait for Christmas to come. His cheeks flushed with the winter cold and his eyes lit up in wonder.

"Mom, Dad, I can't wait for Christmas! Do you think Santa will bring me lots of presents this year?", the boy asked his parents.

"Only if you were a good boy, then your father... I... I mean, Santa will give you lots of toys", his mother answered, almost spilling out that her husband is the child's Secret Santa.

When the family passed by, Alex's mouth formed into a tiny smile as she thought about her Christmas celebrations with her college friend, Kristin Jones. For Kristin, the spirit of Christmas is enlivened by free booze, no working, shopping, and flirting with hot strangers at a bar. But for Alex, it's a time to reunite with friends and families and bring joy and laughter. She remembered how the two of them always traded Christmas presents in college before heading home for the holidays.

"Hey Alex, how's it going?", a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts. She turned around and saw Cal and Vera appearing.

"Hey guys, it's good to see you. I was just thinking about Kristin.", she confessed and hugged both of her friends.

"Are you missing Cookie?", Vera asked and Alex noded.

The three of them entered the Graveyard Shift to meet the rest of the friends. They already received a warm welcome as they entered and made their way towards Ivy and Krom, who were already seated in their favorite booth. Garrus arrived at the table to serve the drinks.

"Sorry, we got late. There was a ghost problem in a mansion we had to deal with.", a female voice said.

"Katherine! Nik! You're here!!", Alex cheered. She rushed towards the two nighthunters and pulled them into a tight hug. After a little while she pulled away.

"Nice to see ya too, rook. Been quite a long time.", Nik said.

"Yeah, I missed all of you! I was so busy in Lamrian learning fae magic and royalty stuff, but I'm glad I managed to be here back, so I could get to meet you all here.", Alex replied.

"I'm glad you managed to squeeze an appointment with your common friends from New Orleans in your busy schedule, Your Highness.", Ivy teased her and made space for the nighthunters to join.

"Since when do the two of you go together on hunts?", Cal asked them while sipping his beer.

"It was only this one hunt, Lowell. Ryder needed my help.", Katherine replied.

"Not true, Katy! You just tagged along with me.", Nik said.

"I was bored, okay?! And I swear this will be the last time because your dumb hunting technique isn't my style. I would have caught the ghost faster, but you just had to take the lead and...", Katherine argued but got interrupted by Alex.

"Wooah, woah, woah... No arguing, especially not when Christmas is appearing", Alex warned the two hunters and Vera agreed to her.

"I don't celebrate Christmas, which means I can argue with Katy whenever I want", Nik teased before Katherine told him to shut his mouth. Nik's answer made Alex wonder.

"You don't celebrate? Christmas is such a beautiful celebration where friends and families reunite to spread joy and laughter. I understand if some people don't celebrate Christmas since they have other celebrations, but most of them all have one meaning. To reunite with their loved ones.", she explained to her friends with a shy smile on her face.

"That's easy for you two say, Alex. You live a normal and happy life", Katherine said. "I don't celebrate either, I live alone."

"I know, I know, but you must have celebrated once before? And... and had a beautiful moment, right?", Alex asked.

"Speaking of celebration... Shouldn't you be in Lamrian making preparations for Winter Solstice, darling?", Garrus, the handsome fae bartender asked her while he refilled his friend's drinks. A few members of the gang made a confused look after he mentioned the Winter Solstice.

"What's that?", Cal was the first who asked while sipping his beer.

"You'll see it tomorrow night. I'm inviting you all, so wear your formal clothes and be there.", Alex answered and winked.

"I don't know, there must be a lot of faes present at the festival and they're gonna look at us the whole time. We are not fae.", Cal gave an unsure answer.

"I wish I could be there, ma chérie. But I have something else already planned for me", a voice said.

"Luc, when did you came??! Oh my god, you scared me!!!", Alex replied and laughed after she and everyone else got startled about his sudden apperance.

"Oh, so you didn't planned to invite me along, ma chérie?", he asked.

"Luc, we talked about this ma chérie thing. Don't call Alex like that.", Nik wispered to him in a huffed tone, hoping that nobody listend. Then the hunter stood up and went upstairs to his apartment.

"I think I'm heading home too.", Katherine replied with a sad expression.

"Don't worry, Alex, I will make sure tomorrow night Nik, Cal, Katherine, and I will be there in Lamrian wearing our finest clothes", Vera reassured her and squeezed her arm with her gloved hand. Alex had no idea about what was happening, but all she knew was that mentioning the celebrations and their true meaning, reuniting with friends and families... might have upset some of her friends.

One by one, everyone headed home, leaving Alex alone with Luc, Garrus, Krom, and Ivy.

"Did I said something wrong?", she asked them.

"What? Of course not, they all just had hard times.", Krom carefully answered to make sure Alex doesn't get upset.

"Look guys, I know the four of them hadn't an easy life. I just wanted to invite them to Lamrian and celebrate with them Christmas, too, like I always did with Kristin. Believe me, I had no bad intentions, and my life wasn't actually as great as you all think it was. Kristin was the one who taught me how to enjoy and live a happy life when I first met her in college. Before that, I was a shy teenage girl who mostly spent my time alone. My mother, Jacqueline had never time for me. That's why I understand what's going through everyone's mind right now, but can't we all forget the past, come together and enjoy this magical time?", Alex asked them.

Garrus served Luc his drink while trying to keep a neutral expression. Luc, Krom, and Ivy stayed quiet for a while, too. A second later, Garrus, the fae bartender, interrupted the quiet moment. "How did you celebrate your holidays at home, Alex? How was your past?", he asked.

"Before even meeting Kristin, I celebrated Christmas with my mother and my adoptive father. We were so happy together, like an ordinary family, until I grew up a little. When I joined the school, and my mother got her dream job, a distance grew between us, and we barely had time for each other. I know that's nothing dramatic, but when she and my adoptive father became successful in their business career, they stayed focused, and somehow... somehow... they forgot that I even existed. My adoptive father is great, but my mom and I had a lot of fights when I became a teenager. 'Alexis, you can't do this, you can't do that, you're not making our name proud and everything has to be perfect if you want to follow our footsteps.' Ughhhh, I don't know. I didn't celebrate Christmas, Halloween, New Year's Eve or anything anymore until I joined college and met Kristin, my party girl.", Alex told them and quickly drifted into other thoughts.

Ivy, everyone's favorite zombie girl, snapped her fingers in front of Alex and pulled her back into reality.

"Oh, sorry, I didn't intend to... I just hope Nik, Cal, Katherine, and Vera will come because I'm excited but also super duper nervous. I'm going to give a speech in front of the whole duchy next to Thalissa, and I'm still nervous about it. Umm, how... how do you spend your holidays?", she asked with interest while sipping her magical fae drink. Of course, Luc was the first one who began his story.

"My mother is a powerful witch, and supernatural beings don't celebrate holidays made by humans. Witches, for example, don't celebrate heartwarming holidays; they're mostly about magical rituals and witchcraft. I like Mardi Gras because that's what most of the people like and makes New Orleans and my souvenir shop so special.", Luc explained until he got interrupted by Ivy.

"Yeah, but Halloween is waaaaay cooler, especially when we spook around and don't have to use the glamour spell to hide our identity. We can be who we are and don't forget the candy or the fun to scare people", Ivy added. "When I was mortal, I really enjoyed Christmas especially the part of getting presents. But my favorite festival is still Halloween!".

"Oh my, I don't like Halloween. It is nice to remove the glamour spell once in a while, but I don't like the way humans dress up in spooky costumes. It scares me sometimes and I don't like how they dress up like hairy trolls. I swear those puffy-haired dolls did more to damage our reputation than six centuries of Norwegian troll-hunters.", Krom admitted to everyone. "Trolls don't celebrate holidays made by humans, but I like Christmas. It's a beautiful celebration everything is decorated beautifully. Just like Valentine's Day which is my one of my favorite days of the year."

"L'amour est beau.", Luc said in a soft voice as Krom tried to steal a peek at Garrus who's busy with cleaning the bar counter. That shy stone troll who secretly has a crush on the handsome fae bartender, Garrus.

"I'm so excited for tomorrow night when we all celebrate with Thalissa and the faes.", Alex excitedly squeaked and commanded the rest to join too. Luc had already made plans; Ivy would be sorting out some ancient books and scrolls with the help of the strong stone troll, Krom. When she asked Garrus, he paused for a moment, and then his sad eyes met hers.

"I would really love to, but I can't. The faes there wouldn't like that, after I'm not welcomed there. I really miss my home and the Fae holidays.", Garrus explained to her.

"I'm so sorry about that, Garrus, but if I, as the daughter of the Duke of Lamrian, can invite you..."

"No dear, it's alright. I enjoyed it being surrounded by all the fae to celebrate and help everyone, but I rather stay here with my dearest friends.", he said and wrapped his arms around Krom and Ivy. The stone-troll shyly smiled while Ivy rolled her bright red eyes. "Have a good time there tomorrow and you should definitely taste the dustplums. Pixies harvest them every winter and they taste excellent."

"Thank you Garrus, and the rest of you for supporting me. Let's hope everything goes well tomorrow."

After hanging out with his friends, the nighthunter, Nik Ryder quickly went up the wooden stairs to his apartment. He sat on his white couch placed in the middle of the living room and ran his hand over his hair. The room was crammed with odd artifacts, dusty books, ancient scrolls, and gleaming weapons. Nighthunter stuff.

"Damn it!", he cursed himself and thought about the earlier conversation in the bar. Celebrations? Christmas? Family? That's nothing for him.

Old memories dragged into his mind as he tried to think about his childhood. Most of the memories were blurry, but he remembered some good ones he shared with his biological parents.

"Nik, look what Santa brought you for Christmas!"

"Mom, I know it was Dad last night who was wearing a Santa costume. He looked very funny with a white beard.", the little Nik giggled.

"Oh, you caught me. That's my clever boy. Who wants cookies?!"

"Me, daddy! Me!"

But when he was four or five years old, he and his biological parents were in the bayou, having a picnic for his mom's birthday. There, his parents were attacked by a monster. On his mother's birthday! Since then, he decided not to celebrate his own birthday, and sometimes he cursed himself for why he was even born.

And when he got adopted by Elijah Ryder, a nighthunter who taught him everything he knows, he wasn't living a normal life anymore. He got plunged into the World of Night at such a young age.

"Elijah... I mean... Dad, can I ask something?"

"Sure, Nik."

"If monsters exist, does that mean Santa exists too? And his flying reindeers?"

"Why that sudden question, son?"

"We have Christmas, and my dad always played Santa for me. Don't... don't you celebrate Christmas?"

"I don't celebrate Christmas. There are many more important things than celebrations. Birthdays, Christmas, Halloween, I don't care! That's a waste of time!! Let the others celebrate. We have our own duty to protect the weak ones and to destroy the evil."

Elijah treated Nik like his own son. Both went on hunts together; Nik went to a normal school, even high school. But it was hard for him to meet new people or make friends when his classmates made fun of him that he believed in monsters. He wasn't the brightest student, hated Math, and couldn't understand how others like Taylor (who was a teenage client he had a few years ago) were so good at it. His best subjects were PA and Biology since his mother was a nature buff and he spent so much time outside with Elijah. Nik could have been home-schooled by Elijah, but the man was too busy hunting monsters and figured out that it needed a lot of time and patience to teach a five-year-old child how to read, write simple words, or other necessary things.

One day, Nik and Elijah had an ugly fight. They had been fighting a lot the past few years, on par for the course of teenagers and overbearing dads, but Elijah stormed out and went hunting alone and died. To Nik, the pain hurts like a knife to the ribs. He didn't have the chance to tell Elijah that he loved him and to apologize for being a stubborn idiot who had to have the last word. Elijah and his parents are the reason that Nik hunts: to honor their memory and to prevent others from suffering what he has. He left high school and became a night hunter, which was easy for him now since he had already trained with Elijah at a young age. His only mission was to protect the World of Day, as known as the human world and the World of Night, from evil.

"Damn it, I miss you Elijah.", he whispered while sitting on the couch.

"Merry Christmas, Katherine!"

"Merry Christmas, Ava!"

Two young teenagers were giggling in a decorated living room as they exchanged their presents. The Christmas tree glimmers in the living room with more lights and various ornaments. Greens and reds are in abundance, gold, and silver flashing here and there, adding opulence and brightness. Joyful music played around in the streets of New Mexico. The little mangenta-haired girl gasped as she unwrapped her present, and so did the other girl.

"Oh Ava, you got me..."

"...the same present I got for you!! What a coincidence? We know each other too well, Katherine.", Ava answered to Katherine, and both girls giggled again while giving each other a hug.

"Ava, you're my childhood friend, like a sister and so special to me.", young Katherine replied.

A man and woman appeared in the room, wearing white coats, and were talking to each other in hushed voices. Both were heading towards the front door of the house until Katherine shouted from the living room.

"Mom, Dad, where are you going?"

"To the hospital, honey. Some emergency came up, so I'm heading for work and your Dad is coming with me. He forgot some paperwork to finish.", the woman answered while the man agreed to her.

"But it's Christmas! Can't another neurosurgeon or whatever doctor do this? I want to celebrate with you two and Ava together. Her parents might be coming over too.", Katherine pleased her parents and ran to them to give them a hug. "Please stay!"

"Duty calls, darling. You can celebrate with Ava, for now. Your mother and I are doctors, and duty comes first, and family in second place. You have to understand that when you grow up to follow our footsteps, you'll see that too.", her father explained to her daughter and planted a kiss on her cheek. "One day, you and Ava will become successful doctors like us."

Before Katherine became a nighthunter, she was a sweet girl who was doing her medical studies because both of her parents wanted her to step in their footsteps and become a successful doctor. She grew up in New Mexico with her childhood friend, Ava. One summer, Katherine convinced her to go camping with her in the dark without even telling their parents, and by that, a terrible incident happened. Ava got killed by a supernatural beast while Katherine survived, but she swore revenge. She never went back to her home or college and trained enough to become a nighthunter. She tracked that beast down for days and finally was able to kill it. She may have succeeded, but she lost the most important person and best friend of her life. She becomes lonely because she thinks Ava's death is her fault. Why did she have to convince Ava to go outside in the dark, she always thought. From that day on, she decided to live alone and fight against the evil creatures of the night. Over time, she gained a lot of knowledge, experience, and money, but she will always feel the pain of losing someone close.

She will never forget Ava and what happened to her. The last Christmas celebration she had was with her, and for her, there's no meaning to celebrating it again.

About 10 years ago:

"You won't believe people from the City are cutting trees from the woods!", a young toddler worriedly said as he joined his older brother in the backyard of their tiny house in the woods. "They're so mean and are hurting nature!"

"Humans can't be mean, they're only cutting a few trees for celebrating Christmas and for that they need a Christmas tree, I guess. But I'm not sure.", his older brother explained.

"What's Christmas? How do you know about that, Cal?"

"I don't know exactly, but definitely something beautiful. I visited the city yesterday, and I heard joyful music, saw happy faces, and discovered the sparkly decorations hanging in shops and other buildings. Somehow humans do that every year."

"What??!! You went to the city?! But we aren't allowed. What if someone from the pack finds out?" his younger brother, Donny, panicked.

"I know, but I couldn't resist and..."

"You did what?!!", an angry voice shouted at both Lowell brothers. It appeared that the voice belonged to Kristof Jensen, the alpha of their werewolf pack. Both boys panicked and Kristof pulled at Cal's collar to get him closer. The alpha's eyes showed anger and he clenched his jaws. "Did I allow you to do that, you tiny puppy?!"

"N...N...No, but the city looked beautiful and Christmas sounded very nice."

"I don't care! We are wolves, we don't celebrate dumb human holidays. Your only tasks are hunting, be around the pack, stay in the woods and listening to your alpha. Have you understood me, Lowell?"

"I'm sorry, I won't disappoint you again.", young Cal desperately pleaded him. The angry alpha stared at both of the children and shoved Cal away. "Worthless puppy", he cursed at him and left the property. He's the alpha, he can visit his pack members whenever he wants and do whatever he wants.

"I'm so sorry, Cal.", the younger sibling apologized to his older brother and wrapped his arms around him. Cal gave him a soft pat on his shoulder and forgave him. He cares too much about Donny, and both will always support each other.

Compared to his father, Cal feels that he is worthless, a waste of a wolf. He feels this worthlessness in his bones. The whole "hyper-aggressive alpha-male" thing never worked for him. When he was ten years old or so, he refused to shift for about a year, like he could reject being of his dad's blood.

After hanging out with her friends at the Graveyard Shift, Garrus's bar, Vera Reimonenq went home. She was about to head up the rotating stairs to her room when she heard her mother's voice calling. She appeared from another room with a cup of tea in her hand.

"Vera baby, you're home. Are you heading upstairs, hon'?"

"How does it look like, Mom? I'm heading to bed early because tomorrow night is a big event I'll be attending and I still have to go shopping. Good night, Mom.", Vera replied and was about to head upstairs, but again stopped because her mother spoke. Tonya got interested and asked her daughter about the event, but Vera refused to give her more information. You never know what Tonya Reimonenq and her goons are capable of, or how many connections they have.

"That's alright if you don't want to tell, my baby. Do you want to join me at Persephone for a while instead of going to bed early?"

"Forget it, no way I'm entering your nasty Club to join your illegal business. Cage fights, seriously, mother?" Vera argued and glared at her.

Vera lived with her mother, Tonya Reimonenq, in a big mansion, a luxurious life, but she didn't live a very easy life. After all, she's the daughter of an assassin leader, Tonya Reimonenq, who called herself Lady Smoke. With the help of the Reimonenq Touch, a curse inherited from her ancestors. Tonya can kill everyone she touches with her bare hands. Even Vera had the same ability, but she kept it a secret by wearing vintage gloves because she did not want to use this ability, unlike her mother. That's why everyone fears the Reimonenq family and no one would want to land on Lady Smoke's bad side. She was very powerful, wealthy, and rich. She owned Club Persephone and was the queen of the criminal undergrounds of New Orleans. Tonya wanted her daughter to follow in her footsteps, but Vera refused. Vera hoped to find a way to break that curse, but she always failed in her mission. That's why she decided to stay away from her mother and started her own, new life.

"Oh come on, Vera baby. Are you going to speak to your mother like this, with Christmas just around the corner? Remember when you were young, how we both celebrated Christmas together in Persephone?"

"Don't try to manipulate me, Mother! I was young and had no idea what was going on. Christmas is a heartwarming festival to share time with each other and have fun. Every time we both were spending time together, your goons were out there in the dark robbing and hurting people. I bet that the presents you always gave me were expensive, stolen items.", Vera angrily said to her mother, but Tonya wasn't mad at her. A crooked smile appeared on her face.

"My Vera baby is a clever girl just like me. But you have to admit, that you really enjoyed our time together and loved my presents. Am I right?", she asked her daughter.

Vera got a guilty feeling because her mother was right. The presents she always received and the time they spent together gave her a nice feeling and she truely enjoyed it. She found it hard to admit that sometimes she didn't hated her mom, that instead she thought her mom is incredible and she wished she could be just like her: strong, determined, and unafraid.

"You look beautiful, dear.", a soft voice said. Lady Thalissa, the duchess of Lamrian and Alex's stepmother entered her room and gazed at the beautiful, glittery gown her stepchild was wearing with a tiny tiara like a princess on her head.

"Your father would have been so happy seeing you like this, dear. This year is just very different. I'm normally excited to celebrate with Elric, but...", Thalissa stopped finishing her sentence as sadness took over her. Her stepdaughter, Alex wrapped her arms around Thalissa and gave her a warm hug to support her. She squeezed Alex back tightly, then drew back to hold her at arm's length and smiled. Her eyes shone with tears.

"What happened with your father was a tragic event, and the people of Lamrian are still feared. However, our task is to spread love, hope, and comfort to our people for the times ahead. And as their future duchess, that is your responsibility. One day you will rule over Lamrian, so your people have to trust you. Show them that you're here for them and try to gain their trust.", the duchess informed Alex. Later, both went to the palace's balcony to begin the celebration.

"Oh god, where are the others? Are they even coming tonight? The ceremony is about to start and I have to deliver the speech in front of thousands of the fae. Breathe, Alex, everything's gonna be fine!", she thought while entering the balcony with Thalissa.

Hundreds of fae were standing on the streets of Lamrian. Fae families, couples, nobles, and pets, and their attention was fully on Alex and Lady Thalissa. The festival lights glowed, lighting up, and many more fae came out from their homes. And as the night sky darkened, more and more emerged.

"Fae of Lamrian, thank you for coming tonight to celebrate with us our heartwarming holiday. Before you can celebrate at home with your loved ones, we have something very important to share with you.", Thalissa spoke to the crowd and looked at her stepchild. This was the signal for the speech!! She hated this position, but Alex knew she needed this. She still wasn't popular among her people, so it was important to showcase the purest fae behavior. The young girl took a few steps forward but froze instead of giving her speech.

"Dear, everything alright? Your speech?", her stepmother worriedly asked, but Alex was too nervous. All these Fae were looking at her, she never got so much attention in her whole life.

"You can do this, Alex. Good luck!", a friendly voice shouted at her from behind. She turned around and found Vera and the rest of her friends standing behind her at the entrance of the grand balcony. Every one of them was wearing their formal clothes and gave her a confident smile.

"Go girl and deliver that stupid speech!", Katherine shouted.

Alex nodded, turned to the Faes, and began to talk. "My dear Faes of Lamrian, I am Lady Alexis Clarissa Fontaine, daughter of Lord Elric, the Duke of Lamrian,, and on behalf of the royal family, I wish you and your loved ones a happy and heartwarming holiday. Tonight we remember and honor all the ones we've lost and pray for a better future. I know last year wasn't easy. We lost a duke and an heir. We lost the future we always thought we'd have. Lord Elric and Lady Thalissa created this local Fae colony to give the weak and exiled ones the protection they needed, The same safety and feeling as if you're all living in the real Fae realm surrounded by its infinite magic. As I'm now the new heir and future duchess, I vow to do my best with the power I have to protect us. I won't let anything like that happen again. Long live Lamrian!!."

With that, the fae burst into thundering applause. Finally, Alex could breathe in relief. Tiny pixies began to fly around and lightened the night sky as they changed their colors while Thalissa and other nobles used their fae magic to create a magical firework. The night sky looked like a beautiful and colorful caleidoscope, which everyone enjoyed watching. Even her friends were amazed by the magic and beauty of this celebration.

After a spectacular fireworks show, Thalissa, Alex, and her friends joined the other nobles in the ballroom for the celebration. Crystal chandeliers spiraled down from the arching sky-blue ceiling, illuminating the glimmering golden walls and a floor so polished it looked like an iced-over lake. The night sky outside was a kaleidoscope of intense periwinkle, purples, and pinks, with an occasional silvery wisp floating past. Female fae's wore evening gowns and precious jewels and most of the male fae's were dressed in dinner jackets with ties. As Thalissa joined some fae nobles at the banquet, Alex led her friends to the other side of the room. Several Fae servants began serving magical specialties to the guests.

"Damn, these dustplums are delicious", Nik praised and happily ate a few more.

"I know, Garrus recommended to taste a few samples. I wish he was here too; it's so beautiful here, and he must be missing his home very much.", Alex sadly mumbled.

Well, at least the fae is happy with Krom and Ivy, and enjoying his free life now since he is no longer the future viscount. Alex noted that royal life can be hard, but at least she has the support of her friends. The gang enjoyed exploring the palace, dancing, eating tasty appetizers, and sipping magical drinks. They stayed the rest of the night to join the fae and wait together for the sunrise. After this moment, the days will begin to get longer in the Fae's realm, and the sun will return slowly. The winter solstice is considered a rebirth of light.

"This is so beautiful. I'm so glad that you all came; I thought you wouldn't and..." Alex confessed but couldn't continue as she felt one of her friends squeeze her hand to reassure her.

She was very happy that they came to support her, and they were also glad that they met her. This is their first celebration together which welcomed a fresh new start. Who knew that an ordinary girl who turned out to be someone special could befriend herself with a werewolf, a cursed girl, a roguish nighthunter and the hunter's former rival? They made their bond and friendship stronger. Alone, they're strong. Together, they're unstoppable.

"Duchess Thalissa, Duchess Thalissa!!", a fae servant rushed towards her. His voice filled with papanicnd fear. "A giant and angry dragon somehow managed to enter Lamrian. The creature is burning some houses of our people."

"What?! Why? Thalissa, we have to do something or else the fae will lose their homes. Where will they go in this cold winter?", Alex replied and turned to her stepmother after she overheard the conversation. Her friends were already behind her.

"I'm proud of you, you think about our people and the duchy. But you are the heir and future duchess of Lamrian, so your security matters too. I will go there, along with some guards, and will see how to solve this matter. It could be dangerous since we never had a dragon flying that near us. They're actually peaceful creatures, but...", Thalissa spoke but immediately left the celebration to save her people. Royal fae guards escorted her outside.

"Don't worry, Alex. Lady Thalissa knows what she's doing.", Vera reassured and squeezed her hand.

"I'm still worried, Vera. I think... I think I'll follow Thalissa.", Alex replied. No matter how much her friends reassured her, she didn't listen and ran out of the ballroom to find Lady Thalissa and the dragon.

"That's typical. Rookie never listens.", Nik quietly mumbled and ran after her, along with the rest of the friends behind.

A mighty dragoness was standing on the buildings of Lamrian, and a blue fire flame came out from its mouth, which put many things on fire. Several faes escaped from home and ran across the streets with their families to find another place to hide. On the ground, Lady Thalissa and other fae nobles were trying to fight the flames with their fae magic, which was burning the homes of many helpless fae. The dragon didn't stop.

"Thalissa and the other nobles are trying their best to protect everyone and stop the flames, but the main source of the flames is that dragon on the roof which is blasting these fireballs and flames." Alex watched the happenings from a safer distance and decided to head directly towards the dragon. "I have to do something as the future duchess."

"For god's sake!! Rookie, come back!!! Damn, don't do this shit!!!", Nik screamed from the top of his lungs. His voice filled with panic.

"Alex!!!! Stop!!!", Cal shouted and was worried about her too. He couldn't bear to see her in danger.

"Please, Alex!! It's too dangerous!!", Vera cried and begged to her friend.

Alex somehow managed to climb a tall, crystalline building to come face to face with a giant, dangerous, and aggressive dragon that was bursting hot flames to damage her duchy, Lamrian. Her friends were out of earshot, so she couldn't hear their warnings and their worry. Alex was only focused on the creature in front of her.

"Stop destroying my home, dragon. As the future Duchess of Lamrian, I hereby command you to leave. You are hurting my people.", she demanded, but the creature continued and didn't listen to her, even though it could understand what she was saying. As a half-fae, Alex got bound to nature and earned some fae abilities that regular faes didn't have, like speaking the animal language.

The young half-fae was about to give up until a crystalline droplet appeared out of nowhere and was floating near the creature's eye. Out of the distance, she was able to touch the smooth surface of the droplet and could see a vision. A sad and fresh memory from the creature's view filled her eyes with tears and made her emotional. After she came back into reality, she wiped her tears away and calmed herself down. The memory which she saw, was a fresh one and only a few hours old. Now, she knew what to do and how to stop the dragon. But when the memory completely dissipated around her, she found herself back, standing in front of the creature in her own body. A few steps backward, she felt sudden dizziness, which often appeared when she touched a monster tear. Then, she collapsed. Falling from the roof of the high building while the dragon continued with the damage. The nobles were too busy with protecting the faes to save the falling heiress.

"Alex, wake up! Please, sweety."

"I hope, she's alright."

"Shhhh, she's opening her eyes. Look!"

Alex jerked awake and found herself lying on the streets of Lamrian, surrounded by her dearest friends. They were all worried about her. In the background, fae nobles were protecting their people while the massive dragon on the roof was still bursting flames and damaging their homes.

"Sweety, what happened? We saw you falling from the roof. We all panicked. You scared the hell outta us." Vera confessed her fear, gave her friend one strong hug, and then released her. "Thank god, you survived this fall. It must have been because of you're new abilities as a half-fae royalty. Are you okay? Why did you lose consciousness and faint?"

"The baby...", Alex weakly mumbled.

"What?!! When? Why? How? And more importantly... Who's the father??!", Nik panicked and started glaring at Cal, who angrily glared back at him.

"Did you seriously asked why and how, Ryder?", Katherine grinned and rolled her eyes.

"Stop! No, not that. I... I... The monster tear...", Alex tried to explain but still had to recover from the fall, so she slowly continued. "I saw a monster tear, touched it, and it showed me what happened with that dragon a few hours ago when the royal firework happened. The dragon-lady is now sad and furious. She lost her baby while flying across Lamrian. I think the baby got distracted by our fireworks, but I'm not sure. We have to find it."

Tears welled up in the eyes of Alex as she thought about how Alexis lost his father, Lord Elric. And there is no way for a child to get separated from its parents. Not for Alex and her friends.

"Then we have to hurry because a few fae nobles decided to kill the dragon if it doesn't stop attacking Lamrian.", Cal informed which made the young half-fae worry even more. Nik gently squeezed her hand to reassure her. She could read the pain in his eyes and just realized that she was not the only one who was suffering and had lost someone important in the past.

"Don't worry, no one will get harmed tonight. Not on Winter Solstice. I'm a nighthunter. I took a vow to protect the ones who need safety and to honor my family's memory by preventing others from suffering what I have. The dragon baby will not lose her mother like I lost my parents and Elijah at such a young age. But we'll also make sure that no fae gets harmed by the dragon. In short, we have a family to reunite before it's too late."

"You're not the only one, Ryder. I lost someone important too.", Katherine confessed and stroked Alex's silver hair to the side. "But where are we going to find the dragon child? It could be flying around anywhere!!"

"Like in front of us?"

"Or it could... Wait, what??!!"

Everyone followed Cal's gaze, which landed on a tiny sapphire-blue dragon, flatting its tiny wings after a swarm of pixies through the fae market.

"Sooooo cute!", Alex and Vera squeaked at the same time.

The five friends quickly began running after it, to catch it. The Fae market was a place in Lamrian where many faes gathered around to sell or buy various items. Exotic fruits, rare fabric, jewelry, pets, some antiques, and more.

"You sure that you should be running after that fall, Alex?", Cal asked her with a worried expression as both of them were running side by side with high speed. The rest of the group was following them from behind. But the young future duchess didn't answer. She was too focused on catching the baby dragon and saving its mother.

"Everyone, look out!!", Katherine shouted as a bunch of frightened fae ran towards their group to get out of the fae market, after discovering a dragon so close for the very first time.

Now, Alex's focus on saving the dragon got broken when the crowd screamed and pushed her and her friends away from their path. Luckily, some hands snaked around her body, keeping a tight grip as they skatted away from being trampled. Alex thanked for the little rescue.

"What's wrong with the fae? Scared of a baby dragon?! We would have ended up like mashed potatoes!!!" Katherine replied after the frightened fae left the marketplace, leaving them alone.

"Oh no!! The baby dragon!! We lost it!!", Alex panicked after realizing that there was no sign of any other being in the fae market now except for them.

"Don't worry, we're..."

"What are we going to now??!!", Alex got frustrated, which made her friends worry. "I'm supposed to handle everything correctly as the duke's elder child. I was supposed to be their new hope and the poor dragon..."

"The light!!!", Vera called out, which made everyone wonder.

"What?"

"Yes, the light!! First, the fae fireworks and then the pixie swarm!! Alex, use your light powers to lure the baby dragon!!"

"Vera, I can't..."

"Yes, you can!! You are the heir and the future of Lamrian. You defeated the bloodwraith when there was no hope left. You stand under Lady Fate's protection. You are the chosen one. The most powerful fae which ever lived on earth and the Fae realm at the same time.", Cal talked sense into her while shaking both of her shoulders. His big, golden eyes met hers at the same time as Nik's silver-gray eyes, which made her shiver.

✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️

"Shall we kill the dragon now? Our people are suffering, your Grace.", a fae guard asked the duchess who made a troubled look as she admired the dangerous beauty above, burning and destroying a part of the duchy.

"We do not have the right to kill, but sacrifices have to be made. If only Elric was here, he would master the language of the dragons and might find a solution. Never in my 300 years have I ever experienced anything like this. Dragons are supposed to be our guardians.", the duchess talked to herself.

"What is the command, your Grace?"

"The command is to let the dragon alone!!", a voice called out from behind Lady Thalissa and her guards as Alex and her friends confidently marched towards them with a tiny sapphire-blue being held in Cal's strong arms.

"Hey, Wolfman, can't handle a baby?", Nik grinned at him as he realized how Cal was struggling to keep the baby dragon in his arms and from flying away.

"Ooof, it's heavier than I thought and woaaahhh..."

The tiny dragon suddenly released itself from Cal's strong grip and landed on Nik which made him crash on the ground.

"Damn, this baby is fuckin' heavier than... Arrrghh!!!"

"Who can't handle a baby now, hunter?" Cal chuckled and quickly grabbed the creature with his strong arms before it could escape again.

"You okay, Nik?" Vera asked as Nik slowly stood up and stretched his back while hoping to have no broken bones.

"What is going on?", Thalissa asked.

But before answering the question, Alex closed her eyes, raised her arms towards the purple sky, and concentrated hard until a golden light appeared from her palms, which slowly floated towards the mighty dragon above. Cal carefully released the tiny creature, which began to flatter, and followed the light until it reached the giant dragons. Excited shrieks erupted as both child and mother reunited, which took everyone's attention.

"The dragon has a child? Oh dear, what a mistake would have happened. Guards, let the dragons alone, as Alex said.", Thalissa ordered after seeing both dragons happily together. It reminded her of her loved ones, she lost. Her husband, Lord Elric and her child, Tialo.

Everyone quietly watched the spectacular of both dragons happily flying across Lamrian. Katherine and Vera huddled close to Alex while the boys were standing behind them. Alex was so happy and so was everyone.

"I am so proud of you, my dear. One day you will become a great duchess.", Thalissa confessed to her stepchild and planted a sweet kiss on her cheek.

"What is going on, guys?!", the blindfolded Alex asked her friends as the four of them led her into the Graveyard Shift.

"It's a surprise, sweety! We all decided to give you our first Christmas present tonight.", Vera whispered into her ear.

When they stopped, Cal carefully removed the blindfold in front of Alex's eyes. She slowly tried to adjust her eyes to face the bright light of the Graveyard Shift, Garrus's bar, until she recognized a familiar face.

"Kristin?! Oh, Kris, it's you!! You're here! I can't believe you're really here!!", Alex squeaked and ran towards her friend from New York for a hug. Kristin, the brunette wore a dark pink shirt with white detailing and white pants and excitedly hugged her friend back.

"Party girl Kristin Jones at your service, and you should thank your friends. They gave me the idea. Right, Vee?"

"Sure, Cookie. Merry Christmas, Alex."

"We know how much you missed Kristin, sooo we thought to invite her. Ehhh, well... we hope you like our Christmas surprise.", Nik shyly confessed and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Oh Nik, I love it! You guys are the best, thank you so much, everyone.", the happy Alex answered and pulled everyone into a hug while knowing that Nik and Katherine weren't the 'hugging their friends'-type of person.

After she released her friends from a tight hug, she went behind the counter to the backroom of the Graveyard Shift. A few seconds later she arrived back along with Garrus and many presents in their hands. Both handed each of her friends a box wrapped in shiny paper.

"Presents? I never received any presents?", Cal claimed and opened the box, revealing a wooden photo frame with a picture of him and Alex.

His surprised look turned into a big smile. Alex knew what would suit each of her friends, even though she didn't know them for very long. A wooden photo frame that Alex decorated for the man who lived in a wooden house and needed a piece of love in his lonely life.

Next, Vera opened her box and stylish and colorful gloves were inside it. No need to wear black gloves all the time to hide her hands when you can hide them with style. Vera liked her present and gave her friend a warm hug because no matter what you receive as a gift, the important thing is that Alex thought of her. She thought of her friends.

"Oh Vera, I knew you would like it.", Alex replied as Vera released her from the hug. Alex turned towards Katherine and waited for her response.

"Wow, that's badass. Thanks!", Katherine happily answered as she admired her gift.

She received earrings that looked like tiny daggers, just like the ones Duchess Olivia from Nevrakis always wears on royal occasions in Cordonia. Alex chose this gift for Katherine because she's a powerful, fierce, and independent woman who never gives up on the things she believes in. When Alex turned to Nik's direction, she saw that he hadn't even opened his gift. "Nik, what's wrong? Open the gift.", she requested.

"I... I don't accept gifts, it feels wrong. You shouldn't have..."

"But I wanted, Nik. I don't know if you celebrated Christmas with Elijah or if the others did with their families. But this celebration is the meaning of 'giving', and you all gave me happiness by bringing Kristin here to New Orleans today. You all thought of me. Now, it's my turn to give you something special and I hope that you'll like it. This is my first Christmas present to you all, guys. I'm just glad that we met and became friends. I love you all."

After such a heartwarming speech from Alex, Nik didn't mind and happily tore the shiny gift paper away. He opened the box revealing a golden medal with the inscription 'Best Bodyguard Ever'.

"Really? I thought I was annoying you with my overprotective nature?? Well, thank you. I never received anything like this.", he confessed with a crooked smile on his face which lit up Alex's heart.

All her beloved friends happily gathered around her, making her Christmas even more special.

[ladylamrian]

- Chapter 8: Forget & Forgive

[ Please read past chapters before this ]

-> Masterlist of this Mini Series <-

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Other characters in this chapter: Katherine, Cal, Vera Reimonenq, Elijah Ryder,...

Summary: Everything gets clear.

Word Count: 3.4K words

Rating: Teen (Action, Drama, Angst)

Warnings: Language, Talk about death,...

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @bri1234 ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @mikaelsrose ; @choicesmonthlychallenge hosted by @jerzwriter (November: Apology, Regret, Friendship, Guilt) ; @choicesficwriterscreations

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

GIF interpretation: Nik Ryder meets Elijah.

"Give up, you little imposter.", the silvery-haired huntress commanded while holding a dagger at Alex's throat. She was standing with her in front of a lonely tree in the woods.

"I'm no imposter!!! I'm you but from another dimension!! Try to believe. I won't hurt you and anyone. I accidentally got here. My friends are now here too and they must be searching for me. Please..."

But the huntress didn't listen. With her dagger resting on her neck, she was ready.

"Please, listen. We're the same person. You weren't always like this. What happened? Why are you doing this? You should be enjoying your life with friends, having fun and not...", Alex paused and analyzed her.

She's still the same as her. Still Alex. But different. Painful scars marked her slim and beautiful body. Her lip was bleeding.

"You're hurt."

"Oh please, this is nothing. This pain is nothing compared to my horrible, new life. Is that even a life? Hunting down evil monsters, so they don't kill me first?", the huntress hissed as her blade gave Alex pain.

"Please... stop. You can trust me. I don't want to fight you.", Alex desperatly begged. But her look-alike wasn't convinced, she was ready to strike.

"Bye, bye, imposter. I... Ouch!!!", the huntress got distracted. Her weapon hit the ground. She groaned in pain, as she realized someone had aimed at her. Both, the real Alex and the hunter-Alex looked up, realizing they weren't alone. It was Nik Ryder who safely shot an arrow at her (trying not to hurt her) which made the dagger slip away from her hands.

"Don't you dare to hurt her!! Or do I have to use my arrow again?", Nik's eyes burned with anger.

Cal was standing right behind him.

"You two again? Why don't you just mind your... Hey!!!! That... that crossbow... Give it back!!", the hunteress boiled with even more anger again.

"That's Nik's crossbow. Come, Alex, we must leave."

"Shut up, Cal!!! That's Elijah's crossbow. It doesn't belong to that man."

"How do you know that it's my dad's?"

"First of all, Elijah has no children. Secondly, I would recognize my master's weapons anywhere. He taught me how to use them. Who are you? What is his weapon doing with you when Elijah took it with him in the vampire war? Where's my master, and what did you do him??!!!!", she moved closer to Nik with clenched teeth and her eyes wide, filled with rage. Alex quickly ran towards the boys to feel more secure again as she was still a bit shaken by the sudden attempt of her look-alike. Cal wrapped a strong arm around her waist and pulled her closer to comfort her, giving her a feeling of security.

But the security and safety didn't stay longer, as they heard a loud, terrible shriek. The bloodwraith was back!! It jumped from tree to tree until its eyes landed on the silver-haired woman. Seeing two at the same time got confused, so he decided to chase one first. The one who buzzed with more power was the real Alex with her magical fae abilities, while the other one wasn't aware of it and was just simply a nighthunter with undiscovered abilities.

"Oh no, the bloodwraith is back!!"

"Damn, it can't be.", Nik glanced at his Alex with. No, not again. He can't let it happen again. He can't lose her like has lost her once. This time he wanted to protect her at any cost. Both, the real Alex from his dimension and the second one from the other dimension.

"Everyone run, I'll try to distract..."

"No Cal, I'll do it!!"

"No, rookie. I can't let..."

"Nik, Cal, I have once defeated it and I can do it again. I have my fae powers. And today... I'm stronger.", she didn't listen and went ahead, trying to close the distance between her and the deadly creature whose red eyes were hungrily following her.

"Don't do it, get back!! It has been hunting me for years and it's impossible to fight it.", even the other Alex suddenly began supporting her who was trying to hurt her a few minutes ago.

"I defeated it once, so I can defeat it again."

"Are you sure, Alex? Because the one you defeated wasn't the bloodwraith... It was Thomas's wraith. You can only kill this bloodwraith if you kill Thomas!!", Cal reminded her, but it was already too late.

"Well, I... I... At least I can try. Years have passed and I got stronger.", she somehow realized that they were right. Unsure what to do, she only blasted a bright flame of light towards the enemy while Nik supported her battle by shooting his holy light arrows at it. He could scare it off once with his arrows, so he can do it again. Pure light against the creature of darkness.

The bloodwraith tried to resist, but failed. It fled back into the darkness to return back soon enough.

"Great job, rook.", Nik praised her and then looked away since he was still not on good terms with her. Afterall, he saw her with a stranger before and it got more confusing for him after Cal's confession from before.

"Thanks for your help, Nik.", she still tried to keep eye contact with him.

"Did... did you just...?? Huh? What??", the huntress, Alex, her doppelganger, got confused as she couldn't believe what had just happened.

"What's the matter?", Alex broke her eye contact with Nik, who didn't even want to look back at her, and turned her attention towards the other Alex.

"How??? You... You have magical powers. You're no shapeshifter then, as I thought before, because they only change their appearances. Shapeshifters can't do magic. What are you and how did you do this?? After so many years hiding from the bloodwraith, you're the first one I met who scared it off."

"I wish to tell you everything, but I promised the Fate not to influence anything. All I can say is that you can definitely trust me and my friends. We do not want to harm anyone, I promise."

"Fine, but will you help me to defeat the bloodwraith once and for all? The death of that monster is currently the only goal I'm seeking to get my peaceful life back again. Please.", her look-alike begged Alex who wasn't sure what to do. Should she help her to defeat an enemy that only she and nobody else can? Or will The Fate intervene? Influencing this dimension could affect her dimension maybe... Who knows?

"Look, this dimension you're living in was only created by a stupid wish of mine, which I made in front of a magical mirror. I need to find the rest of my friends because we have to go back to our world before sunrise. Who knows what will happen to the world or all the dimensions if we make too many changes. You knowing about all this is even too much. Time is running for us."

"So you won't help me then?"

"I don't know yet, I'm sorry.", Alex sadly replied.

"Hmmm... And who are your other friends? Where could they be?"

"They're Katherine and Vera, who must be near Elijah's house. They were searching for... Nik.", Alex explained to her doppelganger while her gaze landed on her boyfriend. Both feel uneasy, avoiding looking into each other's eyes after the confrontation from before. Hopefully, they will fix their relationship soon.

Xxx

Alex's doppelganger from this dimension, the huntress, finally leads Cal, Nik and her to Elijah's house in the woods. But immediately stopped as they discovered their missing friends, Katherine and Vera in trouble. Elijah and the other Katherine surrounded them.

"Elijah, I'm no shapeshifter. I'm Katherine from another dimension, and Vera is on the good side.", Alex's friend tried to convince him and her doppelganger, but they just wouldn't listen until the huntress appeared faster with Alex, Nik and Cal hot on their trails.

"Elijah, Katherine, stop!! They're saying the truth!!", she shouted managing to seek their attention.

"What rubbish are y'a...?"

"Dad!!!", Nik got emotional at the sight of his adopted father, couldn't hold back his excitement, and ran towards him for a hug. Like as if he turned back into a child. When he got closer, he couldn't hold back his tears and strongly wrapped his arms around him for never letting him go anymore. It was very rare for the young nighthunter to express his feelings in front of public and began to sob.

"Poor Nik.", Alex, his girlfriend, whispered and sweetly smiled at the family reunion. It reminded her of her first meeting with her long, lost father which made her now emotional too. Tears welled up in her chocolate-brown eyes for seeing Nik so happy. Cal wrapped his strong arm around her waist for support. It was indeed a rare, but sweet moment. Father and son united again. Who could have ever thought that? But sadly this joyful scene ended earlier as Elijah pushed him away from himself.

"Dad??"

"I'm not your dad. Who the hell are you? Why do ya' look very similar to that boy I caught with Alex before?"

"Dad, it's me. Nik, your son. Nik Ryder.", he begged while crying.

"I don't have a son."

"Of course, you have. You adopted me when my birth parents. You taught me everything from education and life lessons to hunting. I'm sorry when I had that fight with you, I was just a stupid teenager. Every day, every night I think about you and wished that...", he tried to convince, but ended up crying instead. Tears constantly fell down like a waterfall. The more Nik tried and begged, the more his heart sank as he couldn't convince him. The whole group's eyes are on both of them.

"Elijah, wait... That man has the same crossbow as you.", Alex, the huntress, informed him, which gave Nik an idea. He showed his crossbow to Elijah Ryder and pointed at the engraved letters E.R. pictured on the weapons. These were Elijah Ryder's initials in his writing style which shocked him. The old man gazed at his crossbow in his hands and then turned his attention back towards Nik and his crossbow.

"How is this possible? It can't be that easily a copy..."

"Because you gifted me your crossbow, Dad. I swear I'm telling the truth, I'm your adoptive son. You have to believe me, Dad." Nik went down on his knees and begged.

"No, I...", the old man still couldn't believe him even though his feelings convinced him more than before. He felt that Nik's tears were real ones, but also knew that he had no child.

"Elijah, wait!! Let me explain this.", Katherine moved forward but immediately got stopped by her own doppelganger, who didn't believe her. Seeing all these copies made the group of friends look like intruders. Like shapeshifters.

"Katherine, let the other Katherine talk. They're from another dimension and accidentally landed here. These people, including Vera and Cal, are no fake versions of us. They're good people. This Alex just saved me from that bloodwraith which only a good person would do. Perhaps in their dimension, you adopted a child years ago, Elijah.", the huntress explained. Alex and her friends were really thankful that at least one person from another universe was on their side.

"Dad, do you believe your son now?"

Elijah Ryder still felt confused after the newly received information and wasn't sure what to do. So he gently grabbed Nik by his shoulders and pulled him back on his feet.

"Look, you seem like a strong boy and I can feel ya' pain. But whatever happens, you have to move on. That's the only thing I can say and I'm sorry."

"But..."

"Stay strong, kid."

"Dad, I... I... I hope you're proud of me. Love you...", Nik couldn't speak anymore and gave up. For Elijah, he's just a stranger at the moment in this dimension while his Elijah died years ago. Realizing it, Nik took a few steps backward, calming himself down without meeting anyone's eyes. He felt uncomfortable and embarrassed now as he just realized that he cried in front of his friends, who were actually very understanding and felt his pain. Alex finally moved closer towards her Nik, rested her head on his shoulder, and wrapped her arms around him for a comforting hug.

"Nik, look at me. I'm so sorry."

"Why the hell are you sorry for this? I deserve this. I deserve to be alone and abandoned anyway."

"Nik, don't. Please... It's my fault we landed in this dimension because I missed you so much. I got desperate."

"Ahem, as much as I don't want to disturb this sweet moment, but we have to get back to our world before it's too late.", Katherine quickly intervened.

"Your world? You kids are hella confusing. If my hunting student, Alex, trusts y'all, then I believe and suggest y'all go back home."

"Wait, Dad... I... I mean, Elijah... How did Alex even become your student?" Nik asked curiously. This time nobody intervened because they were all curious to know. The old man watched her as if he needed permission to tell the story of Alexis Clarissa Fontaine, the huntress. After a little moment, she began to tell her story.

"It all happened about a few months ago, on my 25th birthday, which I decided to celebrate with Kristin Jones. I don't know why, but this bloodwraith decided to hunt me, to kill me. Some anonymous hired Elijah to protect me. I don't know who or why but they wanted me to stay alive. I'm pretty sure I'm no secret royalty or any important person, but... I don't know. That monster killed so many, including Kristof, the alpha. Poor Kristin got injured that day, so I requested her to go back home to New York immediately after she recovered. I just stayed here, because... I don't know. I can't explain the feeling that maybe this is where I belong... The voice in dreams tells me... I don't know, whatever I do... I will die one day anyway."

"Don't say that, kid."

"But Elijah, it's true. It's been weeks or months now and that killing machine is still outside. We couldn't even save Donny to get the hunter's sage from Cal. He hates me now. And I thought we both... My life is ruined.", she sniffed, wanting to stay strong but couldn't stop shedding tears.

"Were you close to Cal?", Nik dared to ask with worry, hoping that the answer would be a 'no.'

"Nik?!!", his girlfriend was surprised by his sudden question, then waited for the answer from the huntress, Alex, from the other dimension.

"I don't know. Elijah was right, don't trust anyone. Everyone left me... Cal, Kristin, my mother, and Vera. Now I have only my father-like Elijah and Katherine left. Of course, Garrus, Krom, and Ivy are there too, but..." she sniffed.

"I would never leave you, sweety.", Vera rushed towards her for a hug while Elijah skeptically watched her. The Reimonenq child.

"Oh... Thanks.", she was surprised by Vera's caring, sweet nature and hugged her a little back before they broke apart.

"So you have really no idea why the bloodwraith is hunting you?", Alex asked her doppelganger who wasn't aware of the whole situation.

How would she even? If Nik Ryder would be a nighthunter in this dimension, it would have been him to be chosen to protect Alex, and not the old Elijah Ryder or maybe even Katherine. It was Nik Ryder who protected Alex, who helped to enter Persephone to save Donny and lead the group through several dangers and adventures. It was he who united Alex with her long-lost birth father, Lord Elric. She discovered because of him that she was the child of a fae duke, a half-fae. All because of Nik and his existence as nighthunter who sadly lost his parents. The Nik Ryder shared a bond with Alex, according to the Fate.

"So now that we found Katherine and Vera, shall we leave? We must get back and close this dimension before sunrise. I hate staying longer in a world with no Donny.", Cal suggested and turned, already ready to leave.

"Cal is right. Let's hurry before the bloodwraith returns again. Time's running.", Katherine moved forward, already headed towards Luc's magical souvenir shop.

Nik turned back to his father. The father who didn't remember him. He wished to stay with him. He wished to be with him again and reunite, but... It wasn't his world. It's not where he belonged. But he missed him.

As the group said their goodbyes to Elijah, Alex, and Katherine from the second dimension where they accidentally landed, they were heading towards Luc's. But then, Nik stopped.

"Nik, what's wrong?", Vera noticed, and everybody whirled around to meet the nighthunter standing in one place with his head down.

"Ryder, hurry! We have less time. No time for breaks.", Katherine yelled at him. After a short silence, he whispered.

"You all go, but without me. I'm staying here."

"What??!!!", everyone freaked out.

"You can't be serious, bro. Come with us.", Cal commanded.

"No, leave without me.", he replied without meeting anyone's gaze.

"Nik, no. Why? Is it because of Elijah?", Alex tried to move forward, but then stopped to give him some space. He was quiet, still not meeting their eyes. Then Katherine tried to convince them.

"Do you seriously choose Elijah, who doesn't even remember you, over us, who care about you and support you??! Elijah over your girlfriend, Alex??!!! Elijah over us all?? The friends who saved your butt several times, Nik."

"Katy, I... I... Guys, it's not what you think. Try to see things from my perspective. My dad is back. I finally got him back."

"Nik, he's not the Elijah who raised you because he doesn't remember anything. Because it never happened in this dimension.", Katherine argued back.

"So... He's still my father. And I bet Alex would be also eager to meet her father, Lord Elric."

"Nik, what are you saying?!", Alex was stunned by his words.

"I'm being right, rook. If your doppelganger from this dimension doesn't even have the slightest clue about being a half-fae and Lord Elric's child, that means she never entered Lamrian, which also means that the bloodwraith never found Lord Elric. Well, unless Elric himself wandered around the human world without any security. But yes, there might be a chance that he's still alive. Do you wanna meet him?"

"You know... I had to hold myself from laughing as once Alex said that she can't be that important like a secret royalty.", Vera quickly added and giggled.

Alex realized that Nik was right. If it wasn't for him, she would have never reunited with her long-lost birth father, whom she wasn't even aware of. Nobody else figured out this mystery, but him. Nik Ryder who united Alex with her father. If he wouldn't have done this, she probably would never know. So she suddenly got emotional and answered him.

"Nik, I do want to meet. I miss my father too, but I can't. I want to so much, but I can't. He wouldn't recognize me, and if I do find him... I'm afraid to lose him again because the bloodwraith is still alive in this world and hunting me. The bloodwraith is back and after me. I don't want it near my father, Thalissa, or Lamrian anymore, and I don't want that mistake to be repeated again. We must return back to our world because it's where we belong. Please, Nik, I love you, and I don't want to lose you. Please, forgive me for that misunderstanding before. I only love you, Nik. I can't live without you. We all need you.", she begged which finally opened Nik's eyes.

Yes, he's Nik Ryder who has sworn an oath to serve justice and protect his world. His world where he belonged, his home. Garrus, Krom, Luc, and Ivy must be waiting for them desperately on the other side of the portal, hoping for their return. Because it was them, his friends, who always stood up for him after he lost Elijah at such a young age.

"Rook... I can lose everything but not you... Oh god, not you.", he broke their distance and caressed her cheeks before kissing her on her cherry-red lips. He forgave her because he truely loved her and believed her again.

[ladylamrian]

Alex Clarissa Fontaine for @ladylamrian

Darling, dear, I’m so thankful you are here! (hehe that rhymes) Thanks for always being so sweet! Thank you for sharing all your beautiful stories with us. I’m am always in awe of how fleshed out you’ve made the Nightbound world. PB could never!

Wanted to draw you a little something as thank you for being here and for helping spread a bit of sunshine in our fandom this week during this event. I hope you are having the best weekend and that you have a lovely week!

Who else would I draw for you besides Alex. Hope I did her justice. If you look closely the light in her eyes is from the brocade on Lord Elric’s jacket.

My Art Ish Thing Tag (Choices Edition): @storyofmychoices @aallotarenunelma @twinkleallnight @dutifullynuttywitch @thosehallowedhalls

Event Tags: @choicesfandomappreciation (spread kindness) and @choicesmonthlychallengenov2024 (day 1 - author’s day)

[ladylamrian]

Broken Heart never heals

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: What happened the night after Alex's royal fae welcome party in Lamrian...

Word Count: 1.1K words

Rating: Teen (Angst, Heartbreak, Death)

Warnings: Character Death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesmonthlychallenge with @jerzwriter [Regret, Guilt, Remembrance, Forgiveness]

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: This scene takes place in the middle of the Choices Nightbound book.

Nobody thought that something like this would happen tonight. A tragedy. Tonight, the most respected duke of the fae, Lord Elric of Lamrian, passed away as he got killed by the deadliest creature that ever existed, a bloodwraith. As the protection wards of Lamrian fell, the monster managed to enter the world of fae to kill the most powerful beings. Alexis was its first victim and prey to eliminate at her welcome party in the fae world. It almost had her if it wasn't Lord Elric, her newly found birth father, who saved her life and risked his own. This incident just happened a few hours ago and Alexis could still remember everything. It was so fresh and everything happened so fast.

Nik Ryder, her personal bodyguard guided her back to his own apartment after all this happened. Silence hung in the air, and both were shocked. They couldn't believe what had just happened. It took time until words came out.

"Hey Alex, how are you holding up?" he checked on her, wanting to make her feel better as he caressed one of her cheeks with his thumb. But Alexis gazed silently in the air, not reacting which made him worried.

"Alex? Alex? Are you alright?", he asked again until she finally came back to her senses. He met her swollen eyes and trembling lips.

"Do I look like alright to you, Nik? After... After what just happened?!!! After that monster...", the girl sobbed until she crashed into tears and began crying.

"Rook, hey... It's okay now, it's okay. I'm here."

"No, It's not okay. I'm not okay. Let me go!!! Don't touch me!!", Alex almost screamed, pushed his hands away, and ran upstairs, crying. Nik immediately ran after her to calm Alex down and to make sure that she didn't do something stupid. He was concerned for her.

"Alex, wait!!"

When both finally reached the bedroom upstairs, he saw her crash on the floor and crying hard.

"Alex... Shhhh, no. Hey. Hey, calm down."

"No Nik, leave me alone!! How can I calm down when my father just died?!! You saw it too. You saw him dying in front of me and in my arms.", Alex sobbed.

"Yes, I saw. And I'm sorry. God, I'm so sorry. I failed you.", he apologized and trembled a little as he thought about the scene again.

Despite everything he always had a hard time not being able to save the lifes he loved. And Lord Elric was special to him because the fae lord was special to Alex. He failed her.

"Hey, I promised you I would be here for you, I would not leave you alone.

"It's all my fault."

"Of course not, why would you think that? Don't ever say that again, rook. You're not to blame for what happened. You know it's not true."

"He died because of me."

"No, I won't let you believe that and I will repeat it every day if necessary. Hey, look at me."

Nik pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her, letting her cry against his chest while he whispered to her soothing sweet words of comfort.

"I will stay with you, rook. I will be your pillar. You are the only thing that really matters to me in this life."

"Nik, because of me Kristin..."

"Listen, you have to believe in me alright? What happened didn't happen by your fault, okay? You have to understand this, okay? It was not your fault." he held her face gently and whispered, rubbing tears away from her cheek.

"I wish I died instead."

"Hey!! Woah, woah... Pull the breaks now, rook. Never say that ever again!! Your life is too precious, do you hear me? It breaks my heart to even think you would say that. Your father died to save you, Alex. He would not want you to say that, he sacrificed his life for you. You have to keep going, please. For him, for me...", Nik turned serious, jaws set tight as he explained.

"Nik..."

"Shhh, shhh... I'm here. You're not alone. I will always be by your side, I will always be here for you. I will be your strength and your comfort. You are everything to me, my love... My world."

Nik cradled her in his arms, gently rocking her back and forth while whispering in her ear.

"You are the most important thing in my life now. And I will do everything to protect you, to make you happy again. I promise you that, okay? Now please, don't cry anymore because it breaks my heart.", he assured as he wiped away her tears with his thumb and gently kissed her forehead.

"I lost my dad, so of course I will cry. Nik, I feel..."

He held her face with both hands and looks at her firmly before he spoke.

"Alex, I understand your sadness. But don't let the tears control you, okay? I'm here for you and I will always be. He sacrificed his own life because he loved you, and he wouldn't want you to let the grief consume you. Remember the short moments you had together yesterday, the memories that you are going to carry in your heart. Those will never be lost, no matter what. He will always be with you in some way."

"Nik, I miss him already. I miss him so much even if I only knew him since yesterday. I thought I finally found the missing part of me which I never thought was missing."

"Rook, I know what it feels like. It shattered my world when it happened to me. I was left alone in the dark. And that pain never really goes away, you learn to live with it. Broken heart never really heal, but it doesn't kill you either..."

"I know, Nik. It's just... I just finally met my long lost father, but then already lost him?!"

"Yeah, I know. It's not fair, rook. Fate can be cruel sometimes, but please don't think that it was your fault."

"My father, Lord Elric only knew me for a day or two and already risked his life for me, Nik. How?"

"That's what good fathers do, rook. They sacrifice everything for their children. And it's not about how long they've known you, it's about how much they love you. Your father loved you so much that he gave his life to save you."

Emotions suddenly hit Alex as she cried even harder than before. She wanted the father she never had back, spend time with him, get to know him and be loved. But it was too late. She lost him forever. Just found him and already lost him. He was gone. Nik held her tightly, letting her cry against his chest. He felt her tears soak into his shirt, and his heart broke for her. But he knew that all he could do was to hold her, to support her through her grief. To comfort her. To be with her.

[ladylamrian]

Alex's Birthday Calendar

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Only one birthday left to add...

Word Count: 2.0K words

Rating: General/Teen (Fluff, Comedy, Angst)

Warnings: Trauma, Death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesmonthlychallenge with @jerzwriter (November Prompts: Forgiveness & Appreciation) ; ... and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: I decided Nik Ryder to give my own birthday

Nik Ryder's living room was heated on a cold winter morning. The young nighthunter was free today and had no missions to attend. But who knows what urgent business could appear in the evenings.

"How is my little rook doing?", the young man gently kissed her cheek.

"Good. Hey Nik, I have a question.", Alex spoke after receiving her boyfriend's kiss.

"Of course, what is it? Shoot your question, rook."

"You know it's been a year now and... Well, you never told me when your birthday is. When is it?"

"My birthday? That's a topic I rather not dwell on. Trust me. Just so you know... My birthday is a date of pain and loss. So, please... Don't force me to go back there or ask me too many questions about it. Alright?", he answered. His mood suddenly changed into an unhappier one, which made Alex more curious.

"But you know my birthday and give me the coolest presents. I want to do the same to you."

"I know... and your birthday is a day of celebration and happiness. I'd rather not put a taint on it just by bringing my sadness to the table. You deserve good things and I'd prefer to see you happy. Please, respect my choice on this. You don't need to give me anything; just your love is enough.", the young man answered, which didn't satisfy her completely.

"Okaaayyy, fine...", she rolled her eyes and grinned.

"Thank you, my sweetest darling. You're already the best gift of my life, rook.", his compliment made her blush.

"Oh, Nik... I..."

"See? Even with blushing you look gorgeous! My beautiful girlfriend."

"Nik, can I see your identity card?"

"My ID... card? Sure, why?", he blinked in surprise and started to search for his wallet in his pockets.

"Or your driving license would do it too, Nik.", she answered with a grin.

"Are you trying to steal my identity or what?", Nik chuckled as he pulled out his card from his pockets and handed it over to her. Alex immediately snatched it away and somehow started to analyze it.

"Uhh, rook, what are you looking for exactly?"

"Your birthday, of course."

"Seriously? And why do you want to know so bad? Damn, I told you already that date is painful to me. Why are you so damn stubborn always? Do you know what else is sad than my birthday?"

"What?"

"Seeing the one that you love insisting on something you don't want to share.", he looked almost shattered as he confessed, which made Alex now regret.

"I'm sorry, I just... But you deserve a Happy Birthday, Nik. And I want to give it to you. You deserve to be happy."

"It's not as simple as that, Alex. This is a deep trauma. I understand your good intentions but please... Can you at least consider how I'm feeling? I told you how much this matters. If I refuse to talk about it, just respect my decision."

"Nik..."

"No, just a question... Would you like it if I forced you to talk about traumatic moments against your will?", he firmly asked, trying to make her understand his position.

"Of course not, but... Ugh, fine, sorry. So no birthday gifts on January 23rd then." his girlfriend finally accepted defeat and sadly looked away, not daring to face him as she realized that her actions and playful stubbornness were wrong. How can a Birthday, the day of a person's birth, be the most hated day? Of course, her 25th birthday wasn't the best, and it changed her life completely, but still... What horrible event could have happened on Nik's birthday?

"Thanks, rook. Believe me, I hate denying you your gift giving. You're the most wonderful person to me but I really don't want to celebrate my birthday and it upsets me a lot that something that should be fun, has become a source of hurt and pain. I... I just want things to be nice between us and not end up in another argument over this. Especially something trivial as a date, you know? If I was honest, I prefer to celebrate our anniversary instead. Your birthday is actually also our anniversary. At least this day is happy for us. The same cannot be said about my own birthday... Look, I love celebrating our anniversary even if I forgot it the last time completely. Damn, that was embarrassing. But let's please change this subject before I lose the happy mood, yeah? I don't want to talk about my birthday anymore and I don't want to argue with you. Come here, my love.", he confessed, pulled his girlfriend into a tender hug and kissed the top of her head.

"Of course, I'm sorry. But Nik, I'm happy that you were born."

"I'm not, but thanks. You have a big heart and kindness as strong as yours is beautiful. Please don't blame yourself for doing the right thing and trying to help me. I know that you want me to be happy, however... The reality has to be accepted and acknowledged. That date... is a day of trauma and remembering the pain of the past. It's not a day of joy and celebration for me. Look, I know I'm hurting your feelings with this and I loathe myself for it. However, what else can I do? I can pretend to be happy and celebrate because you'd like me to do but... I know I'm only pretending and not really embracing my true feelings. The worst part is you think this is your fault for wanting happiness for me.

You're never to blame for my trauma, Alex. Please don't think that way."

"But Nik, it was your mother's birthday that day when you lost your parents and not yours.", she tried to explain, which hit Nik's boiling point. Recalling that memory, the past was like stabbing a knife in his back.

"Alex!! I know, but still... It happened on her birthday. On a day which was supposed to be a happy one. A birthday which turned out to be a deathday. So I don't believe in happy birthdays anymore. After the death of my birth parents, I never celebrated mine anymore. Never. I mean, remember how you ended up with your 25th, rook. Deadly monster chases and that bloodwraith killing machine. You could have died too on your birthday if... Damnit, I..."

"I understand and I'm sorry. You're right, Nik. Honestly, celebrating my own birthday isn't the same anymore either."

"How so? I mean, your friend, Kristin, almost infected you with being a party animal like she is. Bet she's even crazier than you."

"Heyyy, I'm not crazy!! Just sometimes I like to act a bit naughty and cute."

"And stubborn. Very stubborn."

"Okaaayyy, fiiiiine. Sorry Nik, I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I just wasn't aware of the reason before. Please forgive me."

After a few seconds of angry silence, he finally calmed down a bit.

"Thank you, rook. I didn't mean to become rude and angry. Sorry, you're the best and I love you. I really do."

"No, Nik. It is I who should apologize. Sorry, I just wanted..."

"I know, I know. I understand that your feelings came from a good place. I'm not angry with you. I'm just worried that you're feeling guilty and blaming yourself for this. I'll tell you again. You're not to blame for anything. You know that I have trouble saying no to you. Maybe one day, with time I'll come to accept and celebrate that date. But today's not that day and it might be very unlikely for it to ever come. Still... Will you give me time? This is not about hiding things from you or because I don't want to enjoy it with you. Please, don't think that way."

"Of course, Nik."

"Hey, I'll tell you a secret... Since you really wanted to, do you want to know what would be the best gift you could give me?"

"What?"

"Your company. Your presence, love.

Not a material gift. Only your presence next to me would be the greatest happiness of my life."

"Oh Nik, you always have me."

"Yeah, I do and I love you a lot. Thank you for being my girlfriend. Thank you for accepting me. Thank you for being with me despite my flaws. I love you, my sweet beautiful Alex.", he confessed and finally smiled at her.

"Oh Nik, I love you too. Always."

"I love you even more, my babe.", he whispered as he grabbed her cheeks and kissed her fully on the mouth. After a sweet little moment, they parted.

"I understand, Nik. I respect your feelings, but I still want to add your birthday just in my calendar which I crafted myself. Only to make it feel complete and that's it. Okay? Pleaseeee?"

"All riiiight, if having my birthday on your precious calendar makes you happy, then I'll allow it. Just remember... no presents on January 23rd, okay?"

"But..."

"No buts, rook. You have to accept my rules too, you know? No gifts? Got it? Promise me."

"Not even a kiss?", she asked, ignoring to make a promise.

"Hey, don't try to wiggle your way around. No gifts. But kisses are always allowed.", he chuckled.

"And hugs?"

"Of course, you can give me hugs! And cuddles too."

"And more kisses?"

"Of course, as many kisses as you want! I'd never deny your kisses, which taste like sugar and honey. I got addicted to them. Just... absolutely no gifts. Agreed?"

"Oh, really? Define the word gifts, please.", she was confident to somehow still get a gift for Nik.

"Uhh... Well... it's any item that I would usually not have that is given to me as a way of saying "Happy Birthday". Like cake, clothes, and books. You understand the concept, right? So no gifts because I already have everything I want. No need to add more things to my life and I don't want you to spend much money on that date, love." he defined it in detail, which she didn't expect to hear.

"Wow, what a definition. I understood."

"Good. Thanks for being understanding and caring. I truly appreciate it, and I'm sorry for the way I spoke. But sometimes you make it really hard to be longer mad at you. Your silliness is adorable.

But please... Just respect my request, okay? No gifts."

"I try..."

Nik gently grabbed her chin and moved closer to his face.

"Now... time for some long overdue kisses."

The man softly brushed her rosy cheeks before kissing her tenderly, but Alex mischievously pulled away.

"Sure, after I add your birthday on my calendar first."

"You won't let go, will you? All right, get your pen and add that date there and then I'll kiss you.", he chuckled.

Nik watched Alexis grab a colorful pen to add his birthday to her own crafted calendar before she hung it on the wall.

"Satisfied now, rook?"

"Aren't you going to praise the calendar I created?"

"You want me to praise the calendar you crafted? Uhhhh, it's very... glittery? Too glittery and colorful for my place if you ask me. You used your favorite colors too. But you know, I find anything that comes from you wonderful."

"Thanks, hehe."

Well, my cute rook? I kept our deal, now it's your turn. You made me praise your calendar. Give me those beautiful lips. Come here, love."

"Oh yeah? Come and get me first", she giggled and started sprinting around the room.

"Oh, so you want to play this way? Come back here! I'm not getting you go that easily, rook. You won't escape.", he smirked, started to chase after her.

"Catch me first, Nik."

"I will. You're quite fast, I have to admit. But you can never get away from me."

When Nik finally reached her, he swiftly scooped her up with bridal style in his arms.

"Heyyyy!! Nik!!"

"Gotcha, rook! You weren't thinking you could outrun me, right?", he answered before kissing her on the lips. Then they kissed each other deeply and passionately, with her still in his arms.

Alex's own crafted Birthday Calendar

Main Character's Birthday calculated. It's a few days before the Mardi Gras Parade 2019 (=release year of Nightbound). Plus, it's on "Tell a Fairytale Day" 👑

Nik Ryder: gets my own birthday. According to the Nightbound book, he's 1 year younger than the Main Character, so now he's just 11 months younger. When the Main Character got 25 years old, Nik was 24.

Kristin: World Party Day. Party girl.

Cal: World Lupus Day. Spring season. Fluff.

Garrus: International Fairy Day

Vera: Relaxing Day. Gives off some warm summer vibes

Luc: Supernatural Day. Summer vibes.

Katherine: National Ghost Hunting Day

Krom: Poetry Day. Writer.

Ivy: Halloween 🎃 Spooky. Zombie Girl.

[ladylamrian]

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Something terrible happens on their date night. Will he lose her forever?

Word Count: 5.8K words

Rating: Teen (Drama, Angst, Hospital)

Warnings: Monster attack, Injury

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesmonthlychallenge (Flufftober & Fictober) ; @choicesficwriterscreations whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Nik Ryder never was that much in love than now with his girlfriend, Alex. He watched directly into her chocolate-brown eyes, unable to tear his silvery-blue eyes away from hers. Her beauty was undeniable, her smile dazzling, the stars shining in her eyes, and the light of the moon fell on her skin, which was a masterpiece. The expression of her cherry-red lips, her long silvery-black hair, her delicate slim body, her perfect silhouette. Every time, Alexis captured his breath and warmed up his heart. Nik caressed her tenderly and took her into his arms as she leaned against his strong chest.

"You know, you look even prettier when you smile. For me, you are already a wonder worthy of all the praise in the world. To be here with you and listen to you, to see you smile, it's something wonderful. I never thought I'd be ever happy again. You're the light in my dark world, rook.", the man admired her as he held her tightly, looking into her eyes."

"Oh Nik, you're so romantic all of a sudden. Did Cupid's arrow strike you or what?" she giggled, which made his heart flutter.

Nik ran a finger through her wavy hair as they we both seated on a white couch in his apartment. Both cuddling.

"Damn, I love your scent. The scent of your skin is so delicate and so irresistible. I would've given anything to sink inside your beautiful eyes, to listen to your voice for hours and feel your soft skin deeply against me." he whispered and then started kissing her deeply.

"Oh, someone is in a good mood now.", she mischievously signaled him to get closer.

"Damn right, that is. I am. Because I am here with you. Only with you, rook.", he looked directly into her eyes, his voice soft and almost whispering.

"So? Any plans for the evening?"

"Not yet, but I thought about taking you somewhere nice, maybe take you to eat? I thought maybe this romantic French restaurant? What do you think?", he winked while trying to charm her with his smile.

"Ohhhh, yes!!! Mon Amour is a great place!!! But also expensive, Nik."

"Doesn't matter. I know you're gonna love it. It's a place only for couples, perfect for a romantic date."

That night, the young couple were getting ready for their date. Nik wore an elegant black suit, while Alexis decided to wear the Maroon Majesty, an expensive, maroon-colored, silky designer dress with a deep cut and a golden body chain, which Nik bought for her for the first time.

"Alex, you ready now?! I made reservations, and we're getting late." Nik nervously was fumbling with the keys of his Range Rover in the hallway while constantly staring at his wristwatch.

"Just 5 minutes, Nik!!", she called out from the bathroom.

"But that's what you said 10 minutes ago, rook."

"Beauty takes time, darling. Just 5 more minutes, Nik.", she requested which made Nik groan.

After half an hour, they stopped in front of a fancy restaurant. The restaurant was located in a small square.

For a moment they just stopped to stare at each other before entering the building. The moonlight fell directly on her face and her skin was shining like silver. He looked at her. Her eyes were shiny, and her skin was radiant in the dim light, which made Nik smile.

"Damn, rook, even the moon itself wouldn't shine so brightly for me, if it wasn't for you and your beauty. Even the most brilliant stars pale in comparison."

"Oh, Nik. That's now too much. Stop saying these compliments. I'm not that..."

"Impossible, babe... There are not enough compliments and words in the world to describe the intensity of your beauty. And this night is magical; you're shining as bright as the stars themselves." his words made her blush as he whispered.

The young man placed his hand on her cheek, leaned closer before crashing his lips on her.

"Oh... Oh, Nik..."

"I know... even if I lived a million years... I can never forget... You're the most unique and beautiful... The most beautiful and special person in the universe. The woman I love the most..."

"Nik, look!!!" she suddenly shouted, which startled him. Nik broke away from her and followed her gaze. There was a strange and sinister-looking creature, a monster watching them. It seemed to be trying to approach them, making strange and unpleasant sounds. Immediately Nik stepped in front of her to shield her. His expression got very serious and focused.

"I'm here to protect you."

The mysterious monster approached closer with more aggressive noises and was ready to attack.

Nik, let's leave. You don't have your weapons with you. Let's run. Please.", she begged for their safety.

He realized that she was right and grabbed her hand and urgently led her away from danger. Nik was walking with her fast, and his face was very serious.

"Don't worry, rook. I will not let anything happen to you."

The streets were dark and they were alone. The noises of the monster suddenly started to approach rapidly behind them which frightened them a bit.

"It's following us, Nik. It is after us."

Still holding her hand tightly, both continued to walk at a faster pace. Almost ready to run.

"Alex, Just don't look back. And don't be afraid, okay? I will not let this creature harm us in any way. Damn, why haven't I thought about bringing some weapons?!"

"On our date?"

"A nighthunter has to be prepared for anything, rook."

"Honestly, I do wish now that you would have brought your weapons with you."

Their fast walk rapidly began to become a run as the mysterious creature regained speed, following them down various dark streets as the couple avoided the main streets. They kept running. The monster followed them closely behind. Nik turned a corner in the street and dragged his girlfriend into the alley between two buildings. The monster was right behind them, and it seemed like it was going to jump and attack any second.

Through the running, Alex suddenly stumbled. Nik quickly reacted and caught her in his arms to keep her from falling.

"I got you, my love."

The monster was almost in range to attack. The noises got loud and very unpleasant to hear as they faced it.

"Nik..." she whispered in fear, holding him tight.

"It's okay. I won't let this thing hurt you, baby. I'll take care of it.", the young man assured while turning her face to look at her eyes and stroked her hair as ge gently spoke so that she does not get more scared.

"I swear, nothing's gonna happen. I'm there to protect you and fight this thing without fear. I had worse. Just put your faith in me and my abilities."

He held her tightly against his chest and pulled her closer to him, and her face pressed against his chest, where she felt his heartbeat.

Within seconds, the monster attacked already, which separated the couple.

"Nik!!!"

"Noooo!! Alex!!!"

In a hurry, he immediately grabbed her and pushed her to the side with one hand at the last second to prevent the monster from hurting her, and it was he who got to receive the attack in her place. With great force, he got knocked back and thrown several feet. He hit the ground on his back.

He could barely see while a strong pain seized his body, but he felt the need to get up and protect Alex. He must protect her.

He managed to raise his head just to see that the monster was approaching again. Alex her head got bumped against a brick wall when he pushed her to the side. Unconscious and with her head bleeding, she was lying on the ground. Only a few feet away from the creature, which started taking advantage of the situation and tried to approach her instead of Nik.

Nik got frustrated. He was unable to get up. He wanted to get up, he wanted to protect her, but he couldn't move. The amount of pain he was in was immense. Blood covered the side of his face.

When the being approached quietly and was about to grab Alex, ready to sink its fang-like teeth into her neck, Nik felt that he couldn't bear it any longer; he must act.

He dragged himself forward and with what little strength he had, he reached the monster in time to drive his fist into its chin. The monster fell back. Nik got up with a huge effort, trying to keep the monster away from his girlfriend. The sudden urge and strength to protect her at all cost, even when it meant his own death, because there was nothing in this world that dear to him any more than his beloved, Alex.

Grabbing the monster he managed to hold him back from her with both hands. The monster tried to push Nik away with its feet and claws, but he somehow managed to hold it back still. Fate was on his side. With every effort, he pushed the danger back. Every second that passed, every moment he held back was a triumph for him in this battle. His strength was running out quickly and the pain grew more and more. Breathing heavily and almost exhausted, the man managed to hold it back and push it away once again. The monster getting more and more aggressive now. Nik's breathing was getting shallower, his strength running out. He's starting to feel dizzy. It's a battle against something supernatural and he must resist until the last moment at any cost.

"For Alex.", he whispered, which gave him strength.

A last-ditch effort was needed. Nik suddenly felt a burst of energy and an intense adrenaline surge, as if his body was forcing him to resist until the last minute. His muscles tensed up and a look of determination crossed his face. Nik faced the creature, tightened his grip on the monster, and pushed it away with a last effort.

He quickly took a dagger in his hand from his pocket and held it firmly. If he had no weapons, why not try with a simple dagger which he had just found in his pockets. The monster stared at him as he waved the dagger in front of him, getting closer each second. His look is intense and predatory, just like a beast ready to pounce to attack. Nik faced him with great determination and bravery. He had to protect his lover at every cost.

Taking the initiative, he dared to step forward while holding the dagger and aimed immediately for the throat of the monster.

With a loud scream, the monster fell to the ground dying.

A wave of relief floods through him. The battle against the monster had cost him a lot of effort, but he finally managed to defeat it. The young nighthunter bleeding, had bruises and scratches all over his body, but it was nothing for him. He watched Alex with concern as he went over to check on her.

She was still unconscious with a huge wound on her head. Seeing her in that state, he panicked, pulled her towards him, careful not to hurt her, and placed his hands on her cheeks.

"Alex... Alex...?!!", he shouted her name as he waited for a response while gently shaking her shoulder, but she didn't.

His expression went from concern to pain as he started to realize that he may have failed to protect her.

Without losing any more time, he called the ambulance immediately. As he waited for someone to come, he tried to stop the bleeding of her head wound. Visibly frustrated and overwhelmed by the situation, he put pressure on the bleeding while he continued to call her and wake her up. He kissed her on the forehead near the injury, anxiously waiting for someone to arrive as soon as possible. It was a long and painful time for him.

Finally, the ambulance arrived after long minutes. The paramedics put her in the ambulance and started to treat her and also Nik's wounds.

Nik was sitting in a chair across from her hospital bed. Alex was still unconscious. He watched her with a look of deep concern on his face. Her body was attached to various IVs and monitors, and she was being closely monitored by the nurses and doctors. He still had blood on his face and various cuts, bruises, and scratches all over his body. His left hand got bandaged too. Their eyes were red from all the effort he had to face the monster, and his heart was beating rapidly from the adrenaline overload. His body hadn't recovered yet either, but despite his battered state and all the pain, he worriedly waited for her to wake up. To see that she is okay.

Finally a nurse informed him that her condition was stable that they had managed to stop the bleeding and that her vitals were now within normal ranges. However, her head injury still required a lot of observation. They were careful but they explained to him that there are still risks associated. She would have to remain unconscious for a few hours, but there was no danger of a more serious condition. Nik got a bit more relaxed but was still worried. He stayed with her the whole time.

A few hours later Alex finally up and looked around.

"Where am I?"

When Nik finally heard her voice, he breathed a sigh of relief, taking her hand with a big smile on his face. He leaned over her and spoke in a gentle tone.

"You're safe now, my dear. You're in the hospital. We were attacked by a monster and you got hurt, but don't worry, you're okay now. You're going to get better."

"What??!!"

"We were attacked by a monster. I was able to push you away from danger, but your head. You got injured. I'm sorry, rook. I tried to get the monster away from you but... Well, it's dead now. We're safe now. Your head is being monitored. But you're fine it's nothing serious. Don't you remember anything?"

"No. Nothing. But who are you?"

"What? What the hell are you...?"

"I asked who you are."

"I'm Nik. Your boyfriend. We have been dating for a year now. I was taking you home when we got attacked by a monster. I managed to fight it off, but I wasn't fast enough to protect you."

Nik couldn't stand to see her like this and looked down, feeling guilty for being unable to keep her safe. Visibly very concerned, his heart grew heavier. He took her hands in his before speaking in a soft tone of voice while he gazed down at his hands which were still holding hers.

"No need to worry, the doctors say that a temporary memory loss is normal. It's part of the shock, and it's only a temporary situation. You will recover your memory soon, okay? The doctors said that you should rest and not worry.", he tried to reassure her and himself too, wishing she could remember him already.

"Who are you? Where am I?"

Who are you? This question hit him hard. Nik felt a deep pain inside him that she didn't remember him.

"I'm your... your boyfriend."

"Really? I don't think I have a boyfriend."

Nik couldn't believe his ears. He tried to keep calm but with every word that she said made his heart grow heavier.

"You don't have a... a boyfriend? Why do you think that?"

There was a sudden silence on both sides; Nik was speechless and didn't know how to get out of this situation she had a hard moment believing that she could be in a serious relationship with this dashing and handsome in front of her. She dared to speak again.

"Who are you?"

"You don't remember me?", Nik couldn't believe the situation. He watched at her with a look of shock and hoped for any sign that she was remembering him or just pulling some silly prank on him. Sadly, she was still looking at him with a confused expression and this is made his stomach feel heavy.

"Mister, I..."

"Nik... it's Nik... Your boyfriend."

"Oh, okay. But, I'm sorry, I don't remember you."

Nik was speechless; he didn't know what to say or how to react. He remained quiet for a moment, taking deep breaths and trying to contain himself. He was really struggling not to show that this was hurting him

Suddenly he noticed that she was feeling a bit ill and tried to ask her some things to distract her from her memory loss. He spoke with a concerned tone of voice and a tender look. She may not remember him but she's clearly upset by all this too.

"Hey, are you feeling okay?"

"Why don't I remember? What's going on? I try to think but I feel pain."

"They say it's normal, temporary memory loss. You had a bad injury and you had a severe shock, and that can affect the memory. But rest assured that doctors are taking good care of you.", he sighed and lowered his head, starting to lose some hope. A little hope that the doctors were right. That eventually she will recover her memory.

"And why are you here again?"

"I'm here because of what happened to you. It's my fault. I tried my best to protect you from the monster, but I wasn't fast enough.

"Monster?? Are you crazy? They don't exist. What non-sense are you talking about?"

Nik was speechless for a moment; what she said didn't make any sense to him at all. He had no idea how to answer her. He watched her and opened his mouth to say something but he stopped himself. Perhaps her memory loss was more serious than they thought. He swallowed hard and began to speak in a tone of voice that was trying hard to sound convincing.

"Yeah... you're right, of course. They don't exist. You should try to rest now." "Then what really happens to me if monsters don't exist, huh? You're hiding something. Or are you using me because I don't remember anything?"

He had no idea what to say and how to answer this anymore. Of course, Alex knew about the existence of supernatural beings, but that was months ago when she found out. Did she seriously lose so many memories? Such a huge gap. Memories of their relationship all vanished within a day. He didn't know what to say. The accusation made him feel bad, and he was worried that she might not trust him anymore. When he opened his eyes again he tried to explain in a desperate voice as if he just had run out of words. Frustrated, felt that whatever he was saying would be wrong to her.

"I swear I'm not hiding anything. Please, you have to believe me..."

"How? Who are you? A man who's taking advantage of my memory loss so he can do and tell whatever he wants me to believe??"

Shocked by her accusation, as if a nerve had touched inside him. As if his lover was taken away from him.

"Listen, I'm your boyfriend, we've been dating for a few months. I'm not taking advantage of you or anything like that. I'm just... here for you because I love you. Can't you believe that?"

"Look, I lost my memory so I have to be careful. You could be anyone. Even a guy who wants to use me, abuse me, or..."

"Woah, I would never do that. Trust me, I understand what you're saying and I know you find it difficult to trust in people because you can't remember anything. But I'm not that kind of guy and I would never hurt you. I'm... I'm just here for you. You're safe with me."

Nik swallowed hard, she didn't say anything wrong. Alex was right in being very cautious given her situation. His girl has been through something very traumatic, and, understandably, she finds it difficult to trust people. But it also hurt him that she didn't remember him at all

He wanted her to remember him so much.

When Alex tried to stand up from the hospital bed, Nik immediately stopped her by placing his hand gently on top of hers.

"No, don't try to get up, please... The doctors said you need to wait a little longer to recover before you walk around. Let's not take any risks. Just lie back. Relax for a moment, okay? Do you have any pain anywhere?"

"No, my head hurts when I try to remember", Alex sobbed, and tears began to roll down her cheeks.

" Ssh... Hey... you're gonna to be okay. Just relax and don't try to think too much now. I'm here for you, Alex. Please..."

Now the young man was holding back his own tears, the way she reacted was affecting him so much. He kept caressing her hair and spoke to her in a gentler and calming way. He was trying to keep his voice from breaking

"Ssh... Shhh... it's okay. Don't be afraid. I'm here, okay? Just try to relax now and don't think about it too much. Just try to rest now... Can you do it for me?"

"I... I'm sorry. You seem so kind."

Hearing the compliment was enough to make him break down. His heart and stomach grew even heavier as he got more emotional. His silvery eyes watered a lot now. Answering with a nod, Nik swallowed hard a bunch of times as he tried to keep himself from crying. It was completely rare to see him like this. Completely overwhelmed, crying and emotional over her

"So what was your name, again?",

This question was like the breaking point for him. His heart filled with immense hurt and now tears spilled from his eyes. She didn't remember him at all. The person that he loved the most and who was everything to him just asked him his name and didn't acknowledge his love for her.

"My name is... Nik... and I'm your boyfriend..."

"So, you're my boyfriend?" she asked for reassurance again, and he nodded with a weak smile. Her voice felt good to hear but the words and the way she was talking to him like a stranger. His words have no weight right now. Nik swallowed hard and nodded again. "Yes, I'm your boyfriend. And you're my girlfriend."

"I need time to process. I'm sorry."

"Don't be sorry. Everything will be okay again. I just hope so."

"Can I ask something?"

"Sure."

"Why was I wearing a dress tonight? Looks quite expensive. And..."

And you're wearing a suit?"

Nik raised his chin a little bit and gazed at her body, seeing her still in the dress and himself in his suit. He swallowed hard and looked down a little.

"You dressed to go on a date with me. You... you don't remember that we made plans to go to a fancy restaurant tonight?"

"No."

"So... we have been dating for a few months and I asked you out this evening to a fancy restaurant. We talked a lot during these months, but you don't remember?" he dared to ask. His words were now becoming more forceful, desperately wanting her to remember something about their relationship.

"No, I don't. Sorry."

"Don't be sorry. It's not your fault. I just hope you remember me soon."

"I hope too."

"Yeah... let's hope so..."

"Hey, what happened to you actually? You look seriously injured too."

Nik noticed the concern and surprise in her eyes. She was gazing at his body, especially his legs which were injured pretty badly.

"Oh, that. Nothing. Just some scrapes and bruises. The doctors said it's nothing serious. Let's not worry about that too much, okay? Just relax for a bit. Okay?"

Nik smiled at her again in a gentle way. His eyes watery and his tone of voice filled with joy and sadness at the same time. Alexis was so beautiful and he foimd himself wanting to hug her so bad. Not wanting to let go of her, but forced himself to do so since she would be trying to rest and sleep. Nik sat by her bed and he noticed that her eyes were now closed. Alex looked so much more relaxed and calm now which made the man happy that she's finally getting some rest. His heart relieved that there was something positive happening. He wanted to take the opportunity to try and calm himself down a little since he felt so hurt and sad. It was extremely painful for him to see her like this.

The young man opened his cell phone and started browsing the internet to stay occupied. After a bit he felt so overwhelmed that he needed to distract himself from everything. Nik was browsing the internet, just trying to get his mind off of all the stressful thoughts he's experiencing right now. Trying to remember all the good times that he had with her during all these months. The smiles, the laughs, the dates and all the little things that made a relationship special. Now, he scrolled through his photos and he started to get overwhelmed with positive emotions. He felt a tear coming up his eye but he forced it back since he wanted to stay calm. But scrolling through all the photos that he had of her, he just wanted to remember her smile again, as he watched all the pictures. All these moments were now just forgotten to her.

The nighthunter blinked to prevent the tears from coming out again and he tried to regain his composure. Extremely touched by the pictures he was going through, especially the ones that were the most meaningful. He remembered every detail from those moments. Nik continued to scroll until suddenly he got an idea. He could use the photos to try and jog her memory. When young man found a photo taken by a nice lake in the bayou during one of their dates. The place where they shared their very first kiss. He decided now to show it to her to see if maybe this photo could remind her of anything. Slowly, he approached her bed and held his black phone in front of her face.

"Hey, look at this.", he wispered, slowly continued to show her the photos.

Sadly, Alex doesn't seem to recognize it at all, and it made him feel a bit disappointed, but maybe this photo will have some effect on her memory somehow. He continued to show the picture a bit longer, hoping and that something in her eyes will suddenly change and show a recognition or something like that.

"Please, rook... Try to remember."

"I try, but... Hey, why does it sound so familar?"

"What?"

"The way you just called me. That word..."

"You mean the word: rook ? That's your nickname. That's how I call you. Cuz I love you. Please, I want you back. Try to remember.", he begged, still holding his phone in front of her.

Suddenly, after a little while, her chocolate-brown eyes became a little watery. She smiles slightly, looking much more relaxed at it but nothing else.

"That's me."

A glimmer of hope rose within Nik Ryder, confident that she might remember again. Just those two simple words 'that's me' and that already meant a little bit more to him before than anything. It felt like her first steps towards recognition.

"Yeah, that's you. And that's me. Us."

"Such a pretty picture", she positively and happily confirmed which made Nik smile. Determinated, he tried to continue to explore her memory by swapping right on the phone screen, showing another picture. It was taken while they were sitting in a park on a nice day, eating ice cream.

"Oh, ice-cream. Is that a picture from summer?"

"Yeah, that was last summer. You can remember that part? When was that? Summer?", he got extrelmly happy as she was giving him some signs of recognition and now he hoped she will remember more and more if he showed more pictures of them.

"This one is a bit older and was taken just 3 months ago. The two of us at a restaurant, having a wonderful evening together. Being very affectionate and having a lot of fun."

"So beautiful. Nik, we were really dating? Look how happy we look.

"Yeah, we were in a beautiful and meaningful relationship. This is just one of our dates."

He continued to move the photos in front of her face, looking at her reaction.

"And this picture looks cute. We kinda look good together. I think.", she giggled which was a positive sign for him. Her eyes were starting to sparkle a bit as she almost seemed to recognize it.

"So we are still dating."

"Yeah, we are. Can you tell me what was the last thing we did together?"

He waited for a few more seconds to see if she would say anything more and finally decided to break the silence. Nik was now thinking that maybe he asked the wrong question. He could see she was focused deep inside her mind but she couldn't remember. Perhaps he should have asked for something more specific and not this kind of a general question. He felt like he had now rushed a little, made her panic, so he decided to talk to her calmly.

"My lovely, you've forgotten me and everything about our relationship, but I still want to keep trying every day to reconnect with you. I just need to know, do you still want to be with me?"

"I... I... I try to remember. According to the pictures we were so happy together."

He felt a bit relieved that she at least knew they had a happy relationship.

"Yeah, we were. And I want us to be like that again. It takes time and you're getting closer now. But I just want to know. The truth is, I haven't stopped loving you even for a second, I've been waiting every day for a chance to be with you again. Do you still want to be with me?"

"Nik, that's your name... Right?"

"Yeah."

"Look, I want to remember everything first before I give an answer. Like, is our relationship still happening or... you know... I hope we are no exes and..."

The thought of them being exes was very unsettling to him, so he responded very bluntly without thinking twice.

"Hey, we are absolutely not exes!! Okay? And I completely understand that you want to remember everything first. But you did recognize our relationship in the last few pictures. And also that we were a very happy couple. Is that correct?"

"Yes! I just want to be on the safe side and... What was our last picture?", she requested him to show the last picture of them and so he did.

"The last one was when I took you on a picnic in one of the parks. Would you want to go again?", he smiled which suddenly faded a bit when he just realized that she still didn't say if she wants to continue with him.

"Sorry, I..."

"It's alright. I just can't believe how I even ended up with a young, handsome man like you if it's true.", she blushed shyly.

"I'm actually the lucky guy who's with such a gorgeous woman, my love."

"Can you show me the date this picture was taken? Like was it last month, last week or a few days ago?"

Without questioning, he took the phone from her hand, quickly checked the date of the photo and then showed her the date of the photo.

"Here's the date, rook. 31st July."

"Just 3 days ago? So we're still together, I assume."

"Yes!! Yes, we are!! Of course. And I still love you."

"Ummm, what's your name again?"

"Nik. My name is Nik Ryder."

"So, Nik... Can you show me more pictures? It looks fun. Please?", she lightly rested her head on his shoulder.

With a huge grin as he took the phone and started to scroll through the pictures again and then he showed her another one. This time it's a picture of them together standing on a sidewalk and they were holding hands. Nik still remembered that day. They were both smiling, wearing jackets because it was the middle of the winter. The weather was cold but they were still able to enjoy each other's company. He was feeling very happy just to be there by her side.

"So pretty."

Nik felt very hopeful, he knew he was doing the right thing by showing her all his photos like this one by one. It seemed to really help her remember some parts, and that's enough. He was more confident that this was working and his feelings were being confirmed. He immediately continued to show the next photo. This time around, it's one of their dates as they are sitting in a romantic restaurant eating food together.

"Wow, look at me. That expensive silk dress I'm wearing. And you look very handsome in that suit, Nik."

The man shyly grinned after hearing her compliment. Her words made him feel much more comfortable with her and the memories were now becoming even more clear in her mind. He was excited to see where this will go next.

The last photo he decided to show to her, was a moment that was incredibly special and romantic. They were both sitting on a bench together at night, looking at the stars. The light was just dim enough for her to see his beautiful eyes and she was also very beautiful at that moment. The warmth of the star's shine made them feel even more united and the light just seemed to create the perfect romantic atmosphere between them. Nik remembered this moment like it was yesterday and now waited for her response.

"Nik... I may not remember, but... I believe you. I believe you, Nik. About us."

These words sounded like music to his ears. She finally trusted him completely, even without remembering everything. She was trusting in what was true and she was believing him that their relationship was real. He smiled at her and her eyes seem to brighten as she smiled back at him.

A few weeks have passed and they have finally returned to their old, daily life together as a couple. Her memory was finally back and everything was as it was before. She remembered all the things they did together, all the adventures, and also their plans for the future. She remembered how much she loved him and how much he loved her.

"Nik, I missed you. And I love you."

"Damn, I missed us too and I love you. You scared the hell outta me. Thought I lost you forever."

"I know. And thanks for not giving up on us."

[ladylamrian]

- Chapter 7: Brother

[ Please read past chapters before this ]

-> Masterlist of this Mini Series <-

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder / (F!MC×Cal Lowell)

Summary: The search for Nik leads Alex and Cal to shocking discoveries.

Word Count: 2.0K words

Rating: Teen (Drama, Angst, Relationships)

Warnings: Language, Death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @lilyoffandoms ; @mikaelsrose ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @choiceshorrorfest [Prompts: Nightbound; Cal Lowell; Nik Ryder; werewolf; nighthunters; death] ; @choicesmonthlychallenge [Spooktober]

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

"Hmmm, I think I remember seeing this place. Are we near your new house in the woods?", Alex asked Cal as they continued their search for the missing nighthunter who ran away from them.

"If, in this dimension, it's still my house, then yes. But I think we should head back, I can't recognize Nik his scent here instead... Oh..."

"What is it, Cal?"

"It's weird. I... I... I smell... Me? But...", before Cal could complete his sentence a figure appeared behind the bushes. A very familiar figure which they haven't met before.

"Cal, that's your doppelganger??!!"

The Cal with Alex and the other one shockingly staring at each other and not believing their own eyes. At first, they silently stare at each other and then try to identify the other being by their scent by sniffing each other before getting wary.

"Who are you, and why do you have my scent?" the other Cal asked, glaring at him; then his eyes met Alex, which increased his anger even more, and he took a few steps backward.

"Uhhh, why don't we ignore each other and go our own ways? Let's..."

"Huntress, how dare you show yourself in my territory?!! Leave, or else I'll shred you in tiny pieces", he hissed at Alex.

"Me?? Why would you do that? And did you just call me a huntress?"

"Don't act dumb, huntress, I warned you to never show yourself to me, but you still did. And this time, you tried to lure me out with a fake copy of mine? What kind of spell is that even?"

"Back off, this is not the way you speak to her. Respect her." Cal protectively stepped in front of Alex to shield her from the other Cal.

"Why should I respect the woman who played with my feelings? Who acted like she cared about my well-being but in real didn't."

"I would never..."

"You're a liar, huntress. You ruined everything. Because of you, my Alpha died, and so did my little brother."

"What???!!!! No. Noooo!!!! No, it can't be. Say that you're lying!! Say it!!!" Cal freaked out, shouted, and began to shake his doppelganger by gripping his shoulders as tears began to roll down his cheeks.

"It's the truth. Why would I lie and even think about this? It's sadly true. That day when Elijah and that girl entered Kristof's cabin to get some hunter's sage. Of course, he didn't give it to them. Instead, I offered them mine, but only if they helped me to find Donny. We three ended up in Club Persephone, Elijah refused to go inside and got furious. It took me a lot of time to convince him. It was hard to find Donny, but when we did... It was too late."

"Nooooo... Donny, my bro..."

"Oh Cal...", Alex rested her hand on his shoulder to comfort him.

"Hey, no need to pity. It's too late anyway, little lady. If you would have cared, you would've tried harder when we were in Persephone. Convincing the old hunter more. Leave before I...", the other Cal moved closer to threaten Alex, but her Cal immediately pulled her behind to protect her.

"Don't you dare to touch her, man!! Where's the respect and your manners?"

"Already dead, along with Donny. I lost my brother, I lost everything. What is she to you anyway? A Wolf Bride?", he dangerously snarled at them and began to shift into his werewolf form. Ready for attack.

"Don't you dare, nasty fur ball!!" a familiar voice shouted angrily at the Cal from this dimension. Immediately, Nik Ryder jumped between and shot a holy light arrow in the attacker's direction to blind him.

"Nik, you're here!!"

"Rook, Wolfman, he's not in a good mood. Let's just get outta here.", the blonde hunter ordered and the three of them began to run. Escaping the angry werewolf, Cal's doppelganger.

"Where are we running?"

"Somewhere safe. Just away from danger. I was near and heard trouble, so I came."

"Just in time, Nik. Thanks."

"Yup, thanks bro."

"You're welcome, Cal.", he coldly thanked Cal only and ignored Alex.

"Nik, you're still mad at me. I'm sorry, but believe me what happened before was... I thought the guy I kissed was you. I'm..."

"Less talkin', more runnin'.", Nik answered back to her girlfriend who disappointed her.

"Nik, Alex, can you two please... Hurry!!! He's following us.", Cal noticed his doppelganger chasing the three of them in it's werewolf form.

Nik desperately ran while turning around several times to fire some holy light arrows in the pursuer's direction. But the werewolf is still close, evading every blow until Nik realizes that he has no arrows left anymore. Empty.

"Damn it... Rook, use your magic."

"No, I'll hurt him. He's somehow still Cal and the Fate said..."

"He'll shred us apart!!", he argued.

Without noticing, the three of them reached a familiar place, the cemetery. The very same place where Nik Ryder once rescued Alex from a bloodwraith the very first time. The angry werewolf was hot on their trail.

"Oh no, what do we do now?", Alex panicked and now hoped that the bloodwraith wouldn't appear again.

"Hey, werewolf!!! Leave these innocent humans alone!!!!", an energetic and light voice echoed around them. A very familar voice.

"Uhh, Alex? Was that you?"

"No Cal, I didn't say anything... I... Woah!!", Alex lost her words after she found out who that voice belonged too. The mysterious figure appeared from the shadows revealing herself as...

"Rook?! Wow, you're... I mean, she's...", Nik's cheeks turned softly pink.

"Yeah, she looks wild. Gorgeous. And that scent. Alex, that's your doppelganger!! The Alex from this dimension.", Cal confirmed.

"Uhhh... Guys, why are the two of you staring my doppelganger like this? I don't even know if I should feel honored or feel jealous."

Yes, the mysterious figure, a slim lady with wavy silvery hair which was fluttering in the wind. And the very same chocolate-brown eyes was indeed Alexis Clarissa Fontaine. The Alex from this dimension. But she looked a little diffrent than the "original". A light shirt. Black, ripped pants. Heeled boots. Wearing everything in leather, including the familar cherry-red leather jacket which she once received from Nik. Her hunting outfit.

"Heyyy, werewolf!!! Let them goo!!!", she yelled at the creature which turned it's attention to her and began to snarl. When everyone thought that he's about to attack her, the werewolf shifted back into his human form.

"So, you're here. Hunteress.", he hissed.

"Cal, let these innocent... Wait, what??!!! There are two of us??!!!" she was shocked at the sight of two Cal Lowells standing in front of her and another Alex.

"Oooohh, finally I get to meet my doppelganger in this dimension. Hello other Alex, I love your fashion sense. Where did bought these heeled..."

"Rook, shut up!"

"Nik, you shut up!!"

"Uhhh, could the two of you please...", Cal tried to calm them down.

"Shapeshifters, aren't you?!!", the hunteress asked at the three and quickly drawed two daggers from her pockets. Ready to attack Alex and Cal. But Nik Ryder protectively stood infront of them.

"Step back, they are no shapeshifters. Or else you have to deal with me first, little chick.", he winked at her, trying to make his Alex jealous. Then aimed his crossbow at her to defend his group.

"Wait, where did you get that crossbow? Who are you??!!" her eyes widened at the sight of Nik's weapon, and she began to glare at the blonde man.

"Nik. Nik Ryder. Also a nighthunter."

"It... It can't be... Impossible."

"Wait hunteress, they're no usual shapeshifters. The girl has your scent and so does my doppelganger has mine.", the werewolf finally spoke.

"Really, Cal?" her eyes met his, and for a single moment, the werewolf's gaze softened for her. He silently admired the beautiful huntress standing in front of her.

"Really, Alex." the werewolf, Cal's doppelganger, confirmed, finally calling the huntress by her name and then smiling a little.

While the two were distracted from each other, Nik lightly signaled his friends, Cal and Alex, to leave before they got more in trouble. Silently walking backward till they managed to sneak away.

"Nik, bro..."

"What is it, Cal?" he asked him while the three of them were wandering around the woods. Alex was a small distance behind, sunken in her own thoughts.

"Thank you. Thank you for everything. Because of you... No, because of you and Alex, Donny is still alive in our world. All thanks to you two my little brother is alive."

"It's nothing, Cal.", Nik watched the ground while they were marching down their way without looking up, as if he looked bothered.

"No, Nik, if it wasn't for you and your brilliant plan, we would have never found Donny. Or at least not that quick. You broke the spell to track down Donny, got us inside Persephone without any trouble, and tracked him down just in time before it was too late. Even though you don't like Club Persephone, you still risked it. You're more clever and cunning than Elijah. You have a heart."

"My dad's the best and not me, Cal."

"No Nik, it was you who..."

"My dad would have done the same."

"But Nik, he failed. Haven't you heard what the other Cal just said? Elijah couldn't save Donny, but you..."

"I know, but I don't want to talk about it. Elijah is my hero, that's it! I don't want to hear anything about this now.", he requested while trying to hide his disappointment. For Nik Ryder, Elijah Ryder is not only his father but his hero, his role model. Hearing about his father's failure in Donny's rescue just shocked him a little.

"Whatever, Nik. We may haven't gotten along well at the beginning, but getting to know you better made me realize that you're a good man. A man with a heart of gold. You're a friend. You, Alex, Katherine, and Vera are not only friends... You're like a family to me who accept me the way I am. I don't have to prove anything to you like I always had to among the werewolves. You guys are my own pack. Nik, you're like a brother to me."

"You're actually not bad either, bro. I think. Cal...", Nik hestitated.

"Yeah?"

"Don't get me wrong, but after seeing your doppelganger today. The way he watched at the huntress, it makes me wonder..."

"Wonder what? Is everything alright, Nik?", he smiled and gave him a reassuring pat on his shoulder.

"Do you still have feelings for Alex?" he whispered with worry to make sure Alex wouldn't hear their conversation from behind.

"Woahh, Nik... I..."

"We just considered each other's as brothers, and would you ever hide something from a brother, Cal?" he asked without losing eye contact from his werewolf companion. Cal took a deep breath before answering.

"Nik, the truth is... Alex is perfect. She's perfection.", he confessed which made Nik's face falter.

"So you do have feelings for her?"

"Listen, I was in love with her for a long time. Since I met her, Nik. I still like her and if something would happen to her, I... Well, it doesn't matter now. She chose to be with you, Nik, and I'm happy for both of you. Really. You're a nice guy, even though at first I couldn't understand what she saw in you. But I understand now... You have a big heart, but you don't like to reveal it. Guess maybe that's what she saw in you, Nik. She really loves you. You didn't see her sadness, worry, and love when you were in New York. She suffered alone."

For a minute there was total silence between them. Total silence. After a few thoughts in his mind, Nik finally spoke.

"Thanks for telling me this, Cal. I mean... bro. But seeing Alex kissing and making out with someone else, I... It hurts. It damn hurts.", he softly sniffed.

"I'm here for you, Nik. I'm right here, brother.", Cal wrapped his strong arm around the young hunter to comfort him.

"We're almost there. I can smell Vera's perfume. Katherine and Vera must be somewhere here and very close.", Cal informed as they were strolling together through the woods.

"And we're near my dad's house", Nik smirked.

"Hey Alex, we... Alex??!!", Cal turned around and realized that Alex wasn't with them anymore. The whole time, both guys hadn't realized the girl's absence, even when they were privately talking with each other about her, and now... Both got worried, turned back, and were headed from where they came from to search for their missing Alex.

"Damn it, where did she go now??!" Nik's speed increased, and he was looking in all directions. Cal was close behind.

"Don't worry, we'll find her. I can still smell her. She must be close."

[ladylamrian]

Royal Fae Wedding in Lamrian 👑

Lady Alexis of Lamrian 💍 Nik Ryder (finally!!)

Thanking wholeheartedly the talented artist @pilitella for creating this & @indiacater commissioning. It's such a wonderful gift and I feel very honored. I really adore the golden-white wedding theme colors. Thanks for making my (and Alex's) dream come true. My babies deserve each other. Hopefully one day, I will write a fanfic about it since it's hard to imagine Nik getting married, but she changed him. After several challenges and difficulties to face... They'll find each other. It'll be a long journey for her to become his Mrs. Ryder.

[ladylamrian]

Thanking @korgbelmont for gifting me these DC superhero edits with my Main Character & Love Interest, Nik Ryder

Black Canary (Alex) & Green Arrow (Nik)

Tagging for Day 1: Nik Ryder (+MC) @choiceshorrorfest

[ladylamrian]

As a Nik Ryder lover, I really adored reading about the love between your Main Character and fluff Cal Lowell. So romantic, I want to faint. Loved to read it. And Cal playing the piano makes him more romantic. Glad you added this in your fanfic. And the cute little pixies joined Aurelie. It must have been a magical night. Aurelie is a truly beautiful name. She is also a fae royalty and the couple waltzed in the night. Cal being a gentleman. Please write more for Nightbound ❤️

Dance féerique

(A magical bayou waltz)

Pairing: Cal Lowell x Aurélie Bajolière (f!mc)

Choices Nightbound

Rating: general (fluff)

Wordcount: 700 words

Image credit: madsmikkelsen7161 on pinterest

Tags: @choicescommunityevents for the faeries event 🧚‍♀️ @choicesficwriterscreations

It’s an unusually cool evening in the bayou. Aurélie sits on the small wooden dock behind the cozy home she now shared with Cal and his brother Donny. She looks up at the starry sky, her toes trailing lazily in the balmy water.

They had opened all the windows to let the refreshing breeze flit gently through the house. Which meant she could enjoy her own personal concert.

Cal was seated at the piano, playing her favorite song, Chopin’s Nocturne No. 9 E major.

The soft notes float up to her, carried by the cool breeze, evoking feelings of immense tenderness for this man who had become her rock, her everything during the recent trials. Fighting terrible enemies. Realizing she was half-fae. Losing her father so soon after finally meeting him. Dying.

Sometimes she’d wake up still wondering if the past weeks had been nothing but a fever dream.

Though tonight, resting under the immensity of the cosmos reflected in the calm waters in front of her, the beautiful melody flitting in soft waves, it felt more like a moonlit reverie.

As she gazes out into the confines of the bayou, Aurélie notices white specks of light twirling over the mirror-like water, seemingly dancing in sync with the melody.

Curious, she squints her eyes, trying to make out the dazzling forms. They slowly near the dock, floating on the wind.

As they get closer, Aurélie’s breath catches.

Tiny wood fairies!

Their shimmering, iridescent wings flutter daintily as they twirl and dance. Soon, the ethereal creatures encircle her, their giggles like soft chimes as they joyfully twirl, raise and dip all around her.

“Well, hello, you’re quite graceful.”

Aurélie smiles at the fairies. They grin and chatter, a few fluttering in her long wavy hair, tickling her, while others pull at her blouse, inviting her up.

Laughing, she complies and starts twirling around the yard along with the fairies, in absolute awe at this magical moment.

“You’re a sight to behold, ma chérie.”

Aurélie turns towards the house to find Cal leaning against the frame, observing her with a tender expression, a sparkle in his eyes.

The fairies pick up their chatter, a delicate symphony of windchimes now replacing the night’s melody. Inviting the newcomer to join their magical waltz.

“Well, what are you waiting for, handsome?”

Aurélie beckons him over, smiling playfully. Cal doesn’t need further encouragement. He tenderly gathers his girlfriend into his powerful arms and leads her into a slow waltz.

As always, Aurélie is amazed that this beast of a man is capable of such gentleness. Always so careful around her, protective, attentive to her needs and attuned to her emotions. He had captured her heart so easily with his kind soul.

And she fell in love with him all over again every day, through his many small gestures, gentle touches, daily bouquets of fresh wildflowers, private moonlit concerts. Countless little reminders that he cherished her.

The fairies seem to approve as they increase their wild ballet, surrounding the couple with their ethereal beauty, lighting up the air brighter than the billions of flickering stars.

Cal gazes fondly into his love’s sparkling blue eyes. He bends down to capture her lips in a languid kiss.

Aurélie melts into his strong arms, feeling his intense warmth envelop her. She parts her lips, inviting him in, relishing in this magical moment.

They feel a soft breeze as the fairies excitedly spin around them, then float up high into the air. They bid their farewell in melodic chimes, softly flitting into the dark woods.

Watching the little specks of light disappear, Cal murmurs, “You have such a beautiful soul, even the wood fairies want to be close to you.”

“You’re the one who drew them here with your wonderful moonlight concert.”

“Hmm… and here I thought I was playing only for ma douce moitié.” He kisses her nose. “Shall I continue?”

“Yes please. Though I’ll come sit with you. I love watching you play.”

They turn their backs to the serene bayou and its magical inhabitants as they head towards the brightly lit house.

Their home.

[ladylamrian]

-> My full Fanfiction Masterlist <-

Blades of Light & Shadow × Nightbound

Kit meets Rook (F!MC×Mal ; F!MC×Nik)

Blades of Light & Shadow × Nightbound × Crimes of Passion × The Royal Romance

The Royal Academy Series:

Chapter 1: The new teaching staff

Chapter 2: coming soon...

Heaven's Secret × ???

???