#cal nightbound

[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."

[dutifullynuttywitch]

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.

[korgbelmont]

Edit of Cal in a Pumpkin themed suit

Tagging: @choiceshorrorfest, @kinda-iconic, @bloodboundismylife

[garrusknight]

[aces-and-angels]

i know in the midst of all that chaos, some people may have missed it, but did cal just go full-on wolf in front of a bunch of people at a mardi gras parade??? ain't y'all supposed to try to keep things under wraps???

[storyofmychoices]

SpreadJoy #867 spreading positivity with quotes and @playchoices characters.

Quote by Scary_booo

[a-cloud-for-dreams]

My favorite part of Wolf Bride is when they give us the option to "leave Bastien" and the game completely ignores our choice and is like "too bad, you have to stay with him" MA'AM I thought this game was called Choices pls let me leave this man and his werewolf cult 😭

[playchoicesconfessions]

Sent by anonymous

‘Cal Lowell from Nightbound is the best werewolf we have. So gentle and kind. Especially the way he respects the MC. Bastian from WolfBride would never top him. About the new Alpha book I'm not sure either. My hopes are not very much high, we'll see...’

POST/CONFESSIONS DO NOT REFLECT THE MOD’S PERSONAL OPINIONS!

[lover-also-fighter-also]

Soft asks as you wish. Question for Kate Williams:

Opinion on Vera Reimonenq

Opinion on Nik Ryder

Opinion on Katherine

Opinion on Cal Lowell

Let's gossip 🤭😂

Opinion on Vera:

Initially, Vera was a mystery to Kate. She certainly was different from the guys and girls Kate used to date, and was immediately drawn to know more about her, to relate to her, share the same feelings. But later, after knowing more about her, she admired Vera's resilience and her strength to stick to what is right.

Opinion on Nik:

At first, Nik was the annoying bodyguard that Kate was so reluctantly with because she had no other way of finding answers to protect herself. But later on, as she spent more time with him, she learnt more about him and that annoyance turned into admiration and respect for him. She accepts him as a really good friend, and was really hurt when Nik said they had to part as his job of protecting her was over.

Opinion on Katherine:

She is definitely more fun and open to showing Kate new things than keep a barrier around her, and Kate was able to feel more thrill when around Katherine. Kate was able to push herself out of her comfort zone, and not be afraid of the unknown.

Opinion on Cal:

He is a good friend, a gentle and caring person. He sort of reminds Kate of the feeling of having a warm cup of cocoa. As Kate never had any siblings of her own, she found a close bond when being around Cal.

[mikaelsrose]

happy monsterfucker pride to all my fellow cal lowell romancers 🫶🏻

[choiceshorrorfest]

Choices Horror Fest Masterlist

1st October - 7th October (NightBound)

🎨 - FanArt 📖 - Fan-Fiction 🖼️ - Moodboard

✏️ - Character Edit 📱- AI generated

Day One: Nik Ryder

Black Canary (Alex) & Green Arrow (Nik) made by @korgbelmont, gifted to and submitted by @ladylamrian ✏️

Nik in a pumpkin-themed jacket made by @korgbelmont ✏️

The Haunted House (F!MC x Nik Ryder) written by @ladylamrian 📖

B!Nik Ryder Moodboard created by @bloodboundismylife 🖼️

Bound by Fate: Chapter 7 (F!MCxNikRyder; F!MCxCalLowell) written by @ladylamrian - WARNING: Death/Language 📖

Day Two: Vera Reimonenq

Vera Reimonenq Moodboard created by @bloodboundismylife 🖼️

Vera (bit more witchy) made by @korgbelmont ✏️

Vera in a pumpkin-themed dress made by @korgbelmont ✏️

Day Three: Cal Lowell

Cal in a pumpkin-themed suit made by @korgbelmont ✏️

Day Four: Katherine

Katy as Raven made by @korgbelmont ✏️

Katy in a pumpkin-themed dress made by @korgbelmont ✏️

Day Five: Main Character

Maia, Queen of the Faes created by @kinda-iconic 📱

[ladylamrian]

✨️ Kit meets Rook ✨️

Female Main Character: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine (Nightbound) & Astrid (Blades of Light and Shadow)

Characters: Nik Ryder, Mal Volari, Tyril Starfury, Imtura, Nia Ellarious, Vera Reimonenq, Katherine, Cal Lowell, Threep, ...

Pairings: F!MC×NikRyder & F!MC×MalVolari

Summary: Astrid accidentally opened the wrong portal.

Word Count: 3.2K words

Rating: Teen (Magic, Adventure, Friendship, Fluff)

Warnings: none, just a small fighting scene

-> My complete Masterlist here <-

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

Some parts grammar checked by @lilyoffandoms

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

Author's note: The tiny story takes place after Nightbound and Blades of Light & Shadow Book 1. Special thanks to @chanceisagoodboy for the inspiration and idea ✨️

New Orleans always looked beautiful at night. Shops, restaurants, bars and dance pools were gleaming with bright colors and lights. But in the middle of an abandoned alley, near the street, where no one else was there, something mysterious happened. Air was filled with magic. The weather changed within seconds. The clear night sky turned into a thundery scene as rain fell down the earth and thunderbolts flashed above. But there was something else, something strange and unusual. A mysterious vortex appeared which tossed six strange figures outside. And then... it closed. The six beings remained.

"Ouch, what an uncomfortable landing!!", a lady in a gown commented as she was lying with her companions on the ground. She focused her lavender-colored eyes on her surroundings and wondered where they got.

"Well done, kit. Now care to explain where you transported us, because this doesn't look like Whitetower.", a young man with brown, shoulder-length locks and a light beard spoke. He discovered his two daggers, Stabby & Stabby Junior lying in front of him as he crashed on the ground, so he quickly picked his loyal weapons up and stashed them back inside.

"A powerful and wise never like me doesn't deserve to be lying on the dirty floor and get treated like this.", Threep, the bat-winged cat hissed. As the cat saw how everyone finally stood up from the ground, he fluttered its wings and landed on Astrid's shoulder. His cat eyes fixed on her, waiting for an answer.

"I'm so sorry for the hard landing, Threep. I didn't know it would be like this."

"Hmmph."

"Threep, will you please forgive your Astrid?"

"I suppose a snack wouldn't hurt to make it up for you, dear realmwalker.", he meowed and played around with her blonde braids like a playful kitten which made her giggle.

"Sure, Threep. But first, we have to figure out where we landed. This world looks so weird.", Astrid's blue eyes scanned the surroundings in the dark with the help of her night-vision ability.

All around them were humans. No elf and no orc. They were all dressed in a diffrent style which neither Astrid nor her friends understood. Not only this, strange machinery drove by in which humans were sitting, but there were no horses that pulled them. They moved on their own. Colorful lights are everywhere on the street. Was it magic?

"What strange world is that? Where did you bring us, Astrid?", Tyril asked.

"I don't know, but looks all so new and interesting which got me curious... Let's explore and begin a new adventure!!", she announced with confidence.

"Astrid, I don't know. It could be dangerous. We don't know anything."

"Come on, priestess. Be a little more active and open to the world. We pirates explore new places and find treasures.", Imtura agreed with Astrid.

"Imtura's right! Who knows what shiny treasures and gold we'll find."

"Can't you just NOT think about gold for once, treasure hunter. I have to agree with Nia. It could be dangerous. We don't know anything."

"Three against two, elf boy."

"Excuse me, I would like to be included with my opinion top. I'm with Nia and Tyril, because I want to go home. My warm food is waiting for me.", the nesper licked his palm with attitude.

"So it's three against three. We have a tie. This means we'll explore a little and then we'll go back home. Do you all agree with me?"

"Yes Astrid, that's fair! I just hope you know how to open the right portal which leads us back home.", Nia Ellarious, the priestess agreed, along with everyone else.

"Honestly, I'm still learning my powers. I seriously didn't thought this would happen, but I promise that I'll do better. We'll find a way to get back home!!", Astrid, the realwalker assured her friends.

The group of friends walked through the bustling streets of the unknown place and every time surprised as they made a new discovery. There were small, shining figures in green and red which signaled the humans when to cross the streets and when to stop. These secured the safety of both, the walking humans and the ones who were sitting in these strange, horse-less machineries. Was this magic?

"Hey, why are some humans looking at us like this and then laughing? Are they making fun of us? Maybe because we're dressed differently or...?", Nia asked with concern.

"Yeah, it's like they never saw an orc!"

"Or a noble elf like me. I feel that we're being watched and I do not like this, my dear friends. I told you before too, that it could be dangerous here.", Tyril agreed with Imtura.

Not far from them, a group of youngsters were enjoying themselves. One even held a small, metallic device that flashed like lightning. Out of curiosity, Mal moved closer to the group to take a closer while remaining hidden in the shadows. It turned out that the group of young people now could see a picture of them in that pose when that mysterious device flashed at them. It's like watching a portrait of them that just got painted by the flashing light.

"How can they still be here standing in front of me and also being captured in that small device at the same time?", Mal thought and immediately left, because he didn't want to accidentally get captured in an item.

He quickly joined his friends in a more quiet place, but was shocked as he saw them facing a very familiar figure.

"Well, well, well, who do we have here? How interesting! Humans, along with an elf and an orc. These two might fit well into my collection", the mysterious woman in black smirked. Behind her were standing tough, muscular men who looked dangerous.

"Uhh, who are you? What collection?"

"Oh, dear. You don't know me? Everyone knows who I am. Would your elf friend and orc friend be interested in joining my secret fighting ring under Club Persephone? Elf versus Orc. That would create a huge audience and a lot of money.", she answered Astrid's questions while pressing her face with her gloved hand as she moved closer towards her.

"Hey!!! Let Astrid go!!!", Mal shouted at the woman. He grabbed Astrid's arm and pulled her protectively closer to him till their bodies pressed each other.

"Mal, I'm fine. Don't worry, I can handle it.", she showed strength, but also gratitude towards her caring lover. They glanced at each other with full affection and love until their attention turned towards their friends and the mysterious woman.

"Oh, so you're a couple? You two remind me of that annoying hunter and his fairy girlfriend. You disgust me."

"Leave us alone, thief master.", Mal warned her which made her even more angry while the friends were surprised.

"Mal, you know that woman?", Imtura asked.

"Thief master??? You dared to call me, a thief?!! I am the Lady Smoke!!! The most powerful woman and most dangerous murder mob boss of New Orleans??!", she unleashed her anger, and finally removed her glove, revealing her palm which showed black, poisonous veins. The whole crew was shocked at the discovery. While the lady in black moved her hand towards Astrid and Mal, her muscular men grabbed the rest of them.

"Let go!!! Don't hurt my friends.", Nia shouted.

"I'll show you the strength of an orc, you rats.", the orc hissed.

"Threep, is that woman corrupted or why does she have these black veins?", Tyril asked while fighting one of the goons.

"No, it's something else.", he meowed as he tried to free Nia, the priestess. The nesper began attacking the enemies with his sharp claws.

The whole situation turned into a fighting scene. Mal tried to protect Astrid, and she tried to protect him, as they switched back and forth. Trying to protect each other.

"Astrid, I'll handle.", he grabbed his two daggers and got into a fighting position.

"Mal, I can do it. Let me use my powers."

"But..."

"Ssshhhh, I'll be safe. Don't worry, love."

"But I'll..."

BANG

Before Mal could say more, a bright light appeared out of nowhere which illuminated their whole surroundings. It took everyone a little time to adjust. They shielded their eyes from the light which was so bright. When the light faded, they slowly opened their eyes. There was a mysterious young man in a leather coat facing them, holding a crossbow in his hands. It was the holy light arrow he just shot, which caused the bright light. The arrow landed on the ground near Lady Smoke and her goons as a warning and not to injure them.

"Let them go, Smoke!", he warned her.

"And if I don't?"

"Don't make a fuzz of this, Tonya. Just let them go and everyone will be happy."

"Mind your own business, nighthunter."

"Heyyy!!! Nobody speaks to my partner like this!!", a silvery-black-haired woman appeared next to the mysterious man.

Nik smirked as she called him her partner and wrapped his free arm around her waist.

"My rook."

"Oh, so the couple is here together now. Solo suited you better, Nik Ryder", Tonya mocked.

"Shut up, Smoke!! And let these innocent people go."

While Tonya was focused on Nik and his girlfriend, Astrid used her skills to free her friends. Time for the Seduction Skill!! She swayed her hips and leaned closer towards a man who held one of her friends captured. Mal was surprised at her sudden move.

"Hello, strong man.", she winked at one of them.

"Me?"

"Yes, you. You're very strong and look at your muscles.", she traced a finger on the stranger's arm who suddenly felt attracted to her. The rest of them wanted that too now.

Mal definitely didn't like it even though, she used her seduction skills several times and it helped. But this time was different. They were nasty men who could hurt her and were now hungrily staring at her. Mal had to do something.

"Hey Astrid, you haven't seen my muscles yet. Let me use them to smash those bastards.", Mal got jealous. Astrid's eyes were still on the men.

"Oh yes, Mal is right. You guys have muscles, but use them for what??!! To serve an unthankful woman. I definitely would value your hard work and loyalty. All of you.", the braided blonde played with her lashes which made the men loosen their grips.

And with that, Tyril, Imtura, Threep and Nia managed to free themselves and began fighting. Even Astrid now used her combat skill and threw a few punches at the men, while Tyril, Imtura and Mal used their weapons. Threep supported the priestess to defend everyone.

"How dare you treat a legendary and wise nesper like that??", he hissed and used his cat claws to hurt the enemies.

"Watch out!!!", the silvery-haired girl shouted and blasted a flame of light towards a goon who was about to hit Astrid from behind. The bad guy couldn't harm her now, fell backward, and then fainted.

"Thanks!!", Astrid shouted towards her and continued her battle.

Tonya Reimonenq noticed that her men couldn't win, especially against a strong orc like Imtura. So she demanded her men to retreat, getting back to her Club.

"I'll be back. You haven't heard the last from me, Ryder.", she swore revenge, quickly stepped inside her limousine and commanded her driver to escape.

"Phewww, she and her men are gone.", Nia got relieved when Lady Smoke and her goons were finally gone.

"I knew it!! An unknown world could be dangerous."

"I know, Tyril. You were right, but I'm glad we got rid of them. And these two helped us.", Astrid turned her attention towards the couple in front of them. The two stepped closer to the group.

"Damn, didn't know you guys would handle it on your own. I'm impressed. At least some people don't need to be protected which makes my work easier. And you did a great job too, rook.", Nik praised everyone.

"Awwww, thanks.", she got delighted, stood on her toes and planted a quick kiss on his cheek. Then she stepped closer to the group to introduce herself and Nik. They shook each other's hands.

"Nice to meet you, Alex. I'm Astrid. These are my friends, Imtura, Nia, Tyril, Mal and Threep."

"Awwww, Threep is soooo cute!!!! Eeeeeeekkk...", she admired the little, winged cat and wanted to cuddle it.

"Pardon me, but I need my personal space. No cuddles when I'm hungry, milady."

"You can talk??!!"

"Of course. I'm a very wise nesper who has to confess my hunger and speaks wise words."

"Awwww, poor kitty. You must be so hungry. Let's get you some food, huh? Garrus's bar isn't far away, he'll serve you food and I'll feed you as much as you want.", Alex picked Threep up from the ground and held it like a baby in her arms, gazing sweetfully at him.

This time the nesper didn't complain because he was ready to get treated like he always wanted to.

"What's a bar?", one of the friends asked.

"Uhhh, it's where you drink? You guys never went to a bar? My friend, Garrus serves non-alcoholic drinks too if you want.", Nik informed.

"Ooooh, so it's a tavern. Then let's go!! I could use some refreshment.", Mal immediately agreed.

"Threep, meet Tinkerbell. Tinkerbell, meet Threep.", Alex tried to introduce Threep and her pet with each other.

"Is that a kricken? But what is it doing here?", Nia asked and petted the pet.

"A kricken? It's a perrikin."

"Oh, I see. In our realm it's called a kricken."

"Oh, so you're from another realm?", Alex asked with curiousity.

Nik, Alex and Astrid's crew were now sitting in Garrus's bar, called The Graveyard Shift along with some more friends. Each of them was getting along with another very well and was having a great time.

"So you're a nighthunter who hunts evil creatures and beings at night?", Mal was talking with Nik.

"Not only do I hunt. I make sure that both sides of the world, the World of Day and World of Night are save and secure against the evil. So yes, I'm a professional nighthunter. And you are...?"

"A thief. A professional thief.", Mal grinned, raising his arm to show Nik what he was holding.

"Hey, is that... My wallet?!! How the hell did you...??"

"Don't forget to look after yourself too while protecting the world, nighthunter.", Mal mischievously smiled and returned Nik's belongings back to him.

"Hmm... I like you already, thief. You're not bad actually. I'm impressed by your skills... And I like your shiny daggers."

"Thanks, Nik. My daggers are my tiny babies. But you're very skilled too."

Not far away, Katherine and Imtura were laughing together.

"Woah, really?!!! Could you teach me how to throw axes? It could come in handy for me while hunting."

"Now that's what I call a strong woman!! You may not be an orc or strong like me, but you have the spirit. I'll definitely teach you that, Katherine."

"Thanks, new bestie.", Katherine high-fived with Imtura.

Nia Ellarious and Vera Reimonenq enjoyed each other's presence while having conversations and drinking warm lemon tea together. Both admired each other's outfits and figured that they had a few things in common.

"So that dangerous woman we met before was your mother?"

"Yes, but I'm not like her. Don't worry."

"Oh, I'm not afraid of you. I can sense that you're a sweet and pure person. Besides, I also had the similar experience. I looked up to the Light court, but they were not like I expected them to be. I may belong to them as a priestess, but I can still be different and choose the path I want to. The path of harmony.", she explained to Vera and both sweetly smiled at each other with affection.

"Wait, you're her child?? That means she can't be the person I thought she was. She looks exactly like the thiefmaster.", Mal passed by as he overheard Nia and Vera after finishing his conversation with Nik.

"The thiefmaster?", Nia asked him.

"Oh, never mind. Forget it, priestess.", Mal tried to avoid the topic and decided to look for Astrid.

"Is that a fae??", Tyril got shocked as he saw Garrus passing by with a tray of drinks. The fae was too busy with work and serving customers to notice Tyril, the elf. Then Cal answered him.

"Yes, that's Garrus. He's a fae. And the silvery-haired girl you met earlier, she's a half-fae. Are you a fae too?"

"A half-fae, how rare and astonishing!! And no, I'm no fae. I may have pointy ears too, but they are longer. I'm an elf. Tyril, House of Starfury."

"Oh, a noble?"

"It's complicated. My sister takes care of House Starfury now. I don't feel like I belong with the rest of the noble elves."

"Hey, I know what you mean. I also feel like I don't belong to my pack anymore. I'm a werewolf, but I'm not like them. An outsider. I'm different, but I feel proud of it. By the way, my name is Cal. Cal Lowell.", he extended his hand forward and Tyril accepted to shake it.

"A pleasure to meet you, Cal."

Later, Mal finally found Astrid in the corner of the room who was talking with the silvery-black haired woman from before.

"Hey, kit."

"Hey, rook."

Nik and Mal greeted their own girlfriends at the same time when they appeared. Both were surprised. They stared at each other open-mouthed for a while before turning their attention back to their partners. Alex and Astrid began to giggle.

"So Nik calls you rook, Alex?"

"Yup, and you're Mal's kit. Am I right, Astrid? Guess our boys have a few things in common just like the two of us.", she continued laughing with Astrid at the boys.

"Oh Alex, as much as I enjoyed tonight with you and your friends, it's getting late. We must return, but I will never forget tonight. You're my new friend in this weird, but modern world."

"I will miss you too, Astrid. I hope you will visit us again. Threep is so adorable. And next time when you come, you should definitely teach me your seduction skill."

"Oh nooo!!! For god's sake, please don't!!! Enough people are hitting on her already, I don't want her to get started too or get in trouble.", Nik begged the girls who giggled again.

"Awww, Nik. You're my everything. But I could use the seduction skill to convince you whenever we both disagree with each other."

"Oh, so that's your evil plan? How cruel of you, my rook?", he raised his eyebrow, then chuckled.

Then Astrid spoke, promising to teach Alex the seduction skill if she would teach her some magic. Afterall the flame of light which the nighthunter's girlfriend used against Lady Smoke's goons was impressive and could be useful. Maybe Alex could also convince her friendly stepmother, Lady Thalissa to teach both of them. For example, how to open the correct portal.

And with that, it was time for Imtura, Nia, Tyril, Mal, Threep and Astrid to go back to their realm. Back home. This time Astrid opened the right portal. And if not, then they would have landed on their next adventure.

[dutifullynuttywitch]

Avatar: art by the wonderful @lilyoffandoms

Header: created by the amazing @aallotarenunelma gifted by my lovely friend @thosehallowedhalls 💛

Masterlist

Meet my MC: Autumn Nightbloom

Things left unsaid Mal Volari x f!mc Autumn Nightbloom (Ⓜ️🔥 Angst, Explicit/NSFW)

Reflections on the eve of battle Mal Volari x f!mc Autumn Nightbloom (Teen, angst)

A Thief's Oath Mal Volari x f!mc Autumn Nightbloom (Teen, fluff)

Pancake mornings ✒️🎨Mal Volari x f!mc Autumn Nightbloom (Teen, fluff)

A Whitetower Festival Mal Volari x f!mc Autumn Nightbloom (Teen, fluff)

Gifts & commissions

Bumbling adversaries 🐝 A gift for the lovely Dani

Untitled Birthday Lovely gifts by the amazing @thosehallowedhalls 💛

In the arms of night A wonderful gift from Dani @storyofmychoices

Autumn nightbloom portrait 🎨A gift by the incredibly talented @lilyoffandoms

Mal and Autumn waltz 🎨A beautiful art commission by @hydn-jpg.

Pancake mornings 🎨Gorgeous art commission by Artbyainna (IG), gift from the @choicesficwriterscreations January 2024 reading event. Post blades 2.

Meet my MC: Eva Archer ✒️🎨

Starlit night ✒️🎨Troy Hassan x f!mc Eva Archer (teen, fluff)  

Sisterly advice Eva Archer and Brynn Archer (teen)

Close call Troy Hassan x f!mc Eva Archer (teen)

Gifts

Happy birthday Eva Troy Hassan x Eva Archer f!mc drabble by the wonderful @inlocusmads 💛

Heaven's Secret 1 Revisited Dino x f!mc, Lucifer x f!mc, Sammy x Adi, other pairings

Mature / explicit content Ⓜ️🔥

A self-indulgent rewrite of Heaven’s Secret 1. It stays mostly true to the original story, delving into some of the main characters’ motivations and POVs, and a little more world-building. Dino-Lucifer-MC love triangle, and explorations of Vicky's relationship with Malbonte. Other pairings to come up.

Daddy Luci Lucifer x Vicky and Levvy (daughter) (G: domestic fluff)

Art of Lucifer and Vicky 🎨commission by the very talented @bayleedraws-sometimesx

Lucifer moodboard

Meet my MC: Aurélie Bajolière

Dance féerique Cal Lowell x Aurélie Bajolière (f!mc) (general fluff)

Meet my MC: Geneviève of Carmelide

Redemption is a perpetual journey Kamilah Sayeed x Gaius Augustine (m angst)

What if Gaius had his moment of retribution? Gaius Augustine, Rheya Apostolous (t angst)

A Pact with Lucifer Lucifer x f!mc 🔥 (E: NSFW smut)

Wounded Pride Lucifer x f!mc 🔥 (E: NSFW smut)

[angstymarshmallow]

[garrusknight]

Happy 5 years of Nightbound!!! <3

[thedistantshoresproject]

An NB fan asked if we could do a hair switch between NB and DS LIs. Cal and Ed were done a few months back. You may have to scroll down a while on this blog to find it, since the original art file was deleted and can’t be re-uploaded.