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ladylamrian · 2 months

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Forever Royal 🌹💍

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder (Royalty × Commoner)

Summary: After the death of the duke, Lord Elric, Lady Alexis Clarissa Fontaine had to become the new duchess in a very young age.

Word Count: 5.7K words

Rating: Lightly Mature (Drama, Romance, Angst)

Warnings: Royal Drama ; lightly naked ; Commoner against High Class ; attempt of seduction/abuse (nothing harsh)

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Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @liviusofpella ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @choicesficwriterscreations and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

Author's note: It was supposed be a Women's Day Prompt: Powerful Woman for @choicesmonthlychallenge , but now I'm unsure if it even turned out well enough

Nik Ryder's face was all smiles as he entered the fae royal palace of Lamrian where he had been invited by his girlfriend, Lady Alexis Clarissa Fontaine, the new duchess of Lamrian.

The young duchess had all the power now in her hands. But Nik was a little worried that she might forget about him. But he pushed those thoughts aside. Once inside he walked up to a pair of guards.

"I'm looking for Alex... I mean Duchess Alexis."

One of the royal guards looked him over up and down for a moment.

"Are you her boyfriend, sir?"

"Yes, I am.", he confirmed.

After a minute the door opened and Alex approached him. Although now she wore a dress of light silk embroidered with threads of gold. She now the new duchess of Lamrian, but the woman in front of him was still the same Alex he had always known. With her hair in a braid tied with a ribbon, she looked at him with a smile that made him catch his breath. She hugged him back tightly, the smell of her perfume, her skin, her embrace filled his head.

Nik pulled back a bit and looked at her affectionately.

"I'm so very happy for you. You look stunning in that dress, even more so now that you're a duchess.", he kissed her in her cheek and grabbed her hand.

"I'm glad you're here, Nik."

"Of course I'm here, my love.", the young man gazed at her with admiration and desire. Then he hugged her tightly.

She was all smiles and leaned in, kissing him on his soft lips. Then the two started strolling inside the palace while Alex kept holding Nik's hand the whole time.

"This is all thanks to you, you know. If you hadn't been by my side supporting me all the time, I don't know what I would have done. You're the one who united me with my home. You're the one who found my long lost home and my father. I wish he would be alive now. He would have been so happy to see me as Lamrian's newest duchess.", she seemed emotional and very grateful towards her lover.

"I'll always be there for you, my love.", he raised her palm and planted a sweet kiss on it.

"Nik..."

"Yes, babe."

"Don't panick please, but...", she hestitated as if trying to find more courage to continue.

"What's the matter, love?"

"Nik, I'm a duchess now."

"Yeah, I know."

"I need to get married one day. Probably soon.", she wispered without meeting her lover's eyes.

"You what?!", Nik stopped his tracks and almost got pale. He watched her with a troubled look. "You can't be serious, darling?"

"Nik, don't you want to marry me?", she finally turned towards him, looking at him with sadness and hope.

"Because you once said you wouldn't be the man who wants to be bound in marriage, Nik."

He breathed hard for a second, and then he replied.

"Of course I want marry you, you're the love of my life. But I don't like what you're implying, that you don't consider me as your future husband?"

"Wait, what?? You want to marry be??!! Really?!!"

"Yeah, really. You changed my mind, rook. I can't imagine a life without you anymore and want to stay with you forever. And I definitly can't see you with anyone else than me. You're mine and I'm your's. I want to marry you one day. Not now, but someday.", he shyly confessed.

"Oh Nik!! You have no idea how happy I am to hear this. It's like a heavy stone has been lifted from my chest. Thank you, thank you, thank yoooouu. I love you!!!", she began to dance and twirled around him as if all her worries in the world disappeared.

"Love you too, my rook.", he chuckled as he saw her sweet reaction.

But then, she immediately stopped her little dance as she just remembered something ver, important and got serious now. "Then I have to convince the royal fae court for that."

Nik smiled and laughed a little. "There's no need to worry about it. They won't refuse the wish of their new duchess. Besides Lady Thalissa loves me. She knows about us, doesn't she?", he grinned, raising an eyebrow at her.

"Nik, it's just not normal for the other fae if their duchess is together with not only a human, but a nighthunter. You're a nighthunter, Nik!! You hunt supernatural creatures and well..."

Nik chuckled at her comment. "True, our relationship is a bit unconventional, my sweetheart. But I hope that doesn't matter to anyone."

"Uhhh...Well, I heard some of the court members trying to invite possible suitors for me", she got nervously answered while looking at the polished floors and then back at him.

Nik stopped for a second, his whole body tensed. "What do you mean? There are other people besides me who are interested in you? But don't they know that I'm your boyfriend? So that's why you asked me if I want to marry you, right?"

"Yes, I'm sorry. But you deserve to know about it now. I was just afraid, but I'm glad we're on the same page now.

Also, these other fae nobles just want marriage to strenghten their royal status. Nik, you're the one I truely want."

Nik couldn't help feeling jealous of the fact that other people were showing interest in his partner. He took a deep breath to calm his nerves and then decided to talk without fear. He looked her in the eye with determination.

"Well, that's too bad for these suitors because I intend to marry you. Do you think I'm going to let them be with you? I won't let that happen, my queen."

"I knew I could count on you, my love. But please, no drama in front of the fae court. Try to impress them."

Nik then laughed softly.

"No drama, I promise. Let's just go and I'll do my best to impress them with my appearance and words."

A few minutes later, they were introduced to the royal fae court. All of the eyes were set on them, analyzing Nik with his worn out leather jacket and the nighthunter weapons at his belt, and Alex with her glittery, golden dress. The suitors however, were looking at her and whispering something to each other. Their jealousy was not hidden at all. Alex got very surprised, didn't expected so many court members visiting her and asked the ones she knew about it.

"Those are potential suitors for you, my duchess.", one of the council members replied to her.

"Oh! They're here? Today?? Uhhh... Can't we postpone the meeting? I was about to present you Nik."

The room went silent and a few of the men gave him a disapproving look.

One of them stepped up and spoke. "Why? Is this man here our competition?"

One of the other men stepped forward as well to answer his question.

"No, he can't be a competition, he's not one of our rank. He's just a nighthunter."

Another fae man stepped forward in a loud and arrogant voice.

"Even worse! What are we going to do when we learn that he was with our duchess alone, what kind of things did they do? He's an outsider. A low-lander!! We cannot trust him, my duchess."

"Please, before I found out I was royalty, I was dating Nik. He's my boyfriend", Alex tried to defend him. Even Nik desperatly wanted to intervene and balled his hands into fists. He hardly couldn't stay silent any longer, but he didn't wanted to ruin Alex's reputation and remained quiet.

The men didn't seem to be convinced and one of them answered sarcastically.

"How can a commoner like him be with a duchess? I mean no offense your Highness, but he's no suitable husband."

Another royalty stepped forward and added something in a rude tone.

"Besides, what can he possibly offer? Money? Power? Status? Can he protect your kingdom? The answer is nothing."

"Nik saved my life from a bloodwraith. He truely loves me."

The men laughed at the answer, their smiles were filled with contempt.

"Love? You believe in these fairytales?"

"Well, my father, Lord Elric still loves my mother. This is no fairytale. Nik risked his own life for me against a deadly bloodwraith when I had nobody else and when everything seemed hopeless. He was there for me in the hardest times."

The men looked at each other and one of them said in disbelief.

"A deadly Bloodwraith? But how is he alive after that...".

"That doesn't matter, the point is that this man here has nothing to offer to you. Why don't you pick one of us instead? Like me?", one of the suitors said in a provocative tone, looking at Nik with condescension.

The other men laughed at his joke and some of them even joined him and started to make fun of him.

"Look at his worn out jacket, look at those weird weapons, those are not those of a knight of our fae kingdom."

"He probably spends all his time and money on hunting and killing useless monsters, right, boy?"

"You better shut your mouth or else...", he wanted to punch on the men, but Alex pulled him back, wanting to handle the situation by herself.

"See? This man is getting upset, he can't even control his emotions. He is not suitable for you, my lady."

"Nik and I dated before it got revealed that I was royalty. It proves that he's not after status and money. That he loves and respects me. With him, I'm happy."

"Your Grace, if you wish to take Mister Nik Ryder as your husband... Will he be ready to become our duke after getting married with our duchess?"

Nik seemed surprised and a little nervous at the sudden announcement.

"Wait, are you saying that if we get married I'll become a duke of Lamrian?"

"That's exactly the case. But as you probably know, there are several responsibilities that come with being a duke. Are you up to the task, mister?", the fae noble replied.

Nik was suddenly filled with many different emotions after the unexpected announcement. He thought about the responsibility and the burden that a such role would place on him. Then he looked at Alex as tears welled up in his silvery-gray eyes.

"If it means to be with the love of my life then... I would do it."

"Nik, are you sure? Look, we get married, but I can handle the duchy alone. You don't want to become a duke, right?", she intervened for his sake.

"Rook... I mean, my lady, it's impossible for you to handle a whole duchy all by yourself.

"Of course, I can rule over a duchy all by myself. I also have royal advisors and Thalissa by my side. Never underestimate the strenght of a woman."

"I know, you're strong. But that's still too much. I... I'll help you with anything. I promise. "

"Nik, you feel forced, don't you?", her girlfriend asked with concern.

Nik took a deep breath, trying to clear his thoughts. Then he answered truthfully.

"A little bit, to be honest. I mean I don't really want to be responsible for an entire duchy or fae colony. I would rather just protect its citizens as a night hunter.", he chuckled softly, feeling a bit confused. "But, I guess I might be able to handle the position if I do it by your side. You could teach me how to rule the duchy and I could learn and adapt quickly. Don't you think?"

"I'm still learning myself, Nik", she confessed.

"I know, but you already know more than me. I'm sure that you'll teach me well. Besides, the council will be there to guide us too. We won't be alone. I think. I hope that.", he smiled, showing his supportive nature. But deep down he was nervous too. He would do anything for her, because he wouldn't bare to see her with someone else than him.

The suitors and the council kept trying to force Alex to choose them as her partner. But she remained firm on her conviction and kept repeating that she wanted no one else but Nik.

The men were getting frustrated and they decided to take things to the next level. Instead of arguing, they just tried to convince Alex by presenting her with a large amount of gold and luxury goods. They tried to impress her by showing her rings and diamonds, but she didn't look impressed.

One of them even decided to up the game and presented her a large diamond necklace. It was a very pretty necklace and she had to admit it looked very good, but she still remained true to her emotions and stayed faithful to her beloved Nik. It became clear that they had failed to impress her, and it didn't help that she was getting anxious from all the attention on her. The council and suitors were getting irritated now, they couldn't believe that she wasn't swayed by the expensive gifts. But the more desperate they got, the more Alex stayed true to her heart. She loved only Nik.

The council members lost a little faith in the process and were very irritated by the whole situation. One of the suitors then approached Alex and said loudly.

"What's wrong with you? Don't you understand that the man you want as your husband is just a simple night hunter, he has no position or power.

Why not just pick one of us? We can offer you many more things than he can.", he explained while the other fae suitors agreed and nodded their heads. Two other suitors kept looking at her, trying to influence her with their eyes.

"You royal faes just decided to hold a meeting in my palace without my approval. Please, postpone this. My original plan today was to spend some time with Nik", she let anger take control over her. The fae seemed taken aback by the decision of the young duchess. She was very annoyed by them.

"Your pardon my lady, but this meeting is of the utmost importance. You don't expect us not to choose a partner for you? We have to think of the best for the entire kingdom.", one of the council members replied.

"You're the new duchess, it is your responsibility to find yourself a noble husband. If you fail to do so we'll be forced to do the decision for you.", another one spoke.

"If you have children with him they won't be able to possess any of our strengths, they will be like ordinary humans. Do you really want that?"

After this statement Alex felt taken aback and disappointedly turned towards Nik who's eyes met her's too.

"Nik, you... you didn't wanted to have children, right?"

Nik was a bit concerned about her sudden comment and then replied.

"My Love, I don't oppose being a father. I would be willing to have children with you if you want that. It is your wish that matters to me. But I only ask that you would at least consider the council's words and hear them out. They have a point."

"Nik, I only want you."

Nik smiled, it warmed his heart that his beloved did not value powers more than her feelings towards him.

"It means that I would rather be with you and have a family with you. Royal powers will not be necessary for you or our future children as long as we have each other. You and me, Nik."

Of course the fae weren't happy with her decision and still tried desperatly to convince their young duchess.

This time, Nik showed annoyance since this matter was becoming too insistent. He didn't like his beloved being forced.

He interrupted and replied boldly.

"That's pure nonsense! You can train royal guards, hire bodyguards and nighthunters like me can hunt down beasts and other supernatural villains to protect the fae realm."

The council members looked at him with surprise as he openly rejected their advice. And even more because it was him, a simple nighthunter who had the courage to speak his mind openly.

Nik didn't seem to care about their attitudes and replied proudly

"You can deny the truth and it is still the truth. Powers are not necessary to keep the kingdom safe, with or without them you can be protected. Besides, this decision is about what makes us happy. Why should we be forbidden?"

The men in the room got angry and one of them finally spoke.

"You dare to challenge our rules? You dare to go against our traditions?

Do you think that by saying some empty words we will be convinced? These traditions have been around for generations. The powers are vital and it is our job to make sure she is protected and that the kingdom is safe. You, as a commoner cannot offer her those things."

"I'm the duchess and I order silence!", Alex, the woman with power almost screamed, not wanting to hear another bad insult about her lover.

The men were caught off guard by her sudden order and the room got quiet. They were astonished that the young duchess would dare to challenge their authority as they were also curious about what she would say next. But before she could say anything else, she lost her balace.

Nik rushed to her, held her by her shoulders trying to steady her and make sure she didn't fall or get hurt. The men in the hall stayed silent and looked worried.

"I... I... I want to rest. Let this meeting be held in another day. I need to think."

Seeing that his beloved's stress was getting too much, Nik couldn't help but agree with her.

"Sure my love, just take some rest and feel better. We can always deal with this meeting at a future day. Your health is more important."

The other men kept quiet but they tried to give Alex a sign asking her if this meant that she was willing to reconsider her decision and listen to them instead.

At this moment, Alex was too emotionally overwhelmed to answer the council. She felt like she was about to faint just from the pressure they were putting on her. But the only thing that mattered to her was Nik's love and support. She looked at him with tears in her eyes, grateful for everything he was doing for her.

"Nik, go back home and rest. I'll rest upstairs."

Nik was reluctant to leave her alone, but finally gave a nod and replied.

"Alright my dear, I'll go. Please take some rest and take care."

After Nik left the hall, the council had mixed emotions, as they had not expected the duchess to resist their orders. Some of the royals seemed irritated and frustrated that she did not agree with them, while others seemed impressed that she had the bravery to stand up for her beliefs.

But they all decided to hold the meeting for another day when she would be more receptive to their words.

"Council members, we will meet next time.", Alex declared.

They all nod in agreement, as they knew that this matter was not over and they would have to convince the new duchess one way or another. Then they parted ways to go do their own errands for the day. Only one person remained behind, the one suitors who still wanted to impress the duchess. He looked at her from his corner waiting for a chance to talk to her.

"Servant, lead me to my chambers. I need to rest.", she called for help as she saw one of her helpers appear.

"Yes madam, right this way.", a fae loyal servant immediately stepped forward and replied. The fae took Alex's hand and led her upstairs to her chambers. Once inside her bedchambers, the servant quickly exited and closed the door behind. Alex was now alone, she only had a few moments of peace before the suitors would be back to try and win her heart.

Alex was feeling tired and dizzy and sat down on her gigantic bed. She had a lot of thoughts in her head and she felt overwhelmed by everything that had just happened. She was glad that she at least now got to rest, but she was still worried that the suitors were going to convince her to change her mind and abandon Nik. She needed to calm down and to collect her thoughts

The young duchess felt extremly exhausted from the mental and emotional stress. She had a long and difficult day. She needed a bubble bath to relax and ease her body's tension. She took her dress off and let it fall to the ground. She looked at herself in the mirror and began to prepare for the bath.

While she was doing that, many thoughts flooded her mind. Was she making the right decision by choosing Nik over the rich and powerful suitors? Would her children lack the strength to protect themselves in this cruel world? Would they even get born healthy? She was very anxious and worried...

Her mind was now more at ease as she was feeling the relaxation of her bath. Her body was submerged in the soapy bubbles. She let her thoughts wander and then she started to wonder just how strong her love for Nik was. She felt that she loved him as much as he loved her. But she was also feeling anxious about their future together. She was worried that she might be doing the wrong thing by going against society's norms and marrying a commoner instead of marrying a royalty. If only her father, Lord Elric was alive or Thalissa returned back from her trip, both would have definitly supported her and Nik. They would do anything for Alex and her happiness.

The soap and bubbles were gently massaging her skin and she liked the sensation of being so comfortable.

Her body was feeling relaxed but a sudden noise caught her attention. She took her eyes away from her own body, and tried to listen more carefully. She thought that she heard the sound of someone coming inside her chambers, but she wasn't sure. She felt paranoid about the thought of someone watching her while she was bathing. She quickly wrapped herself with a robe and got out of the bath. She was now feeling very nervous, and she wanted to confirm who it was, and if they had seen her naked.

"Nik? Is it you, my love. I'm here.", she hoped that it would be boyfriend who was allowed the only one allowed to enter her chambers. But then she realized that she sent him home.

She started to look around her room, but she didn't see anyone. The royalty sat down on the bed, now with a robe covering her body, starting to take slow and deep breaths.

Then she heard the door creak open and she couldn't stop herself from becoming more anxious. Her heart was beating quickly and she was ready to scream if anyone else came near her.

She instantly grabbed the robe covering herself and then she saw a person entering the room. She was about to scream, but then she was stunned to her spot as she recognized the man's face. It was the one suitors she disliked the most. He was now inside her room and she felt completely exposed, because she was naked under her robe. She was waiting for him to look or say something.

"Excuse me, such disrespect!! How dare you enter my private area? And this without my permission. Leave!!!!"

The suitor was now shocked and embarrased facing the duchess like this.

"I'm sorry, miss. I'm just here to express my love for you one last time. And I was hoping that we could talk, and that you would reconsider my offer of getting married."

"Our meeting got postponed regarding that matter. I command you leave my palace immediately.", she got furious.

"Oh, I see that it's time for your bath. What would you say if I joined you?"

"Excuse me, how you dare you?!! Leave!!"

The suitor became frustrated by her rejection.

"You know he is just a commoner, right? He doesn't even have the necessary strength to defend you. Whereas I am a royal and I have the strongest army in the kingdom. I'm stronger and more powerful than him, I can defend you better than no one, especially not a commoner."

"My Nik at least respects women. If you treat your duchess like this, how will you even treat your subjects or even your future wife? Now if you speak one wrong thing about my Nik, I will make you regret. I'll use all my powers against you. Leave!!! Leave immediately, or else I will scream!! The royal guards will marsh here immediately to save me. I'm going to order them to arrest you.", she exploded and threw a high-heel at him.

The man's arrogance was quickly replaced by pain as the heel struck him directly in the face. He held his face and looked at her with an expression of shock and anger. His voice was now full of fury as he replied.

"Do you know who I am? I could ruin your life if I wanted to. Don't think you can just treat me this way."

"And I'm a woman. A strong woman. A duchess and powerful magic wielder. I order you to leave my room immediately and never face me again!!! You're hereby banished from my palace and Lamrian."

His expression became terrified and he took your threat seriously. This was a dangerous woman that he couldn't get away from easily. He realized that he didn't want any trouble and he backed away before finally leaving the room and shouting on his way out.

"I'll be back for you, do not forget that. You'll regret treating me this way, I'll make sure of it.", he still felt angry about the high-heel she dared to threw at him.

"If my Nik finds out, he'll make you pay."

The man's face became red with anger and arrogance as he started to walk away but before leaving, he couldn't resist adding one last comment about her. He shouted one last time at her before finally leaving.

"I will find a way to make you fall in love with me, mark my words!"

After the fae noble finally left her room, Alex was alone and now she was feeling very relieved. But at the same time she felt frustrated and angry over the situation.

She then took deep breaths and looked down, feeling ashamed and guilty about her body almost being shown to another man after making a promise to only reveal herself to her beloved Nik.

She couldn't stop crying after the events that occurred within her bedchamber with the suitor.

A few moments passed before her boyfriend, Nik, walked in. It was clear that he had heard her shouting and he looked worried. As soon as he hurried inside, he instantly approached her and pulled her into a warm embrace. He was trying to calm her down and make her feel better.

"Nik?? I... I thought you went home?", she sniffed, not daring to look at him.

His expression became even more worried after hearing her tone of voice when she replied. When he held her close he noticed that her body was shaking and she was still crying. He quickly asked her.

"Is everything alright? What happened?"

"One of them entered my room without permission, trying to win over me.", she wispered without meeting his gaze while covering herself again.

He immediately understood and felt shocked at the same time. How could that fae even think about doing this? He wanted to know everything and let her tell what happened.

His anger skyrocketed as he understood it was a suitor. He was now even more furious that one of those men was the one who saw her like this and that he wasn't upstairs when this happened.

"Nik, please calm down!! It was all so sudden, but I know how to handle. I didn't gave a chance. I made sure he'll regret."

But the nighthunter didn't really feel like cooling down. His blood started to boil a little bit more when he heard her telling him to calm down.

"How can I calm down knowing that one of those suitors saw you like this?!!", he replied.

"Nik, I'm sorry. I tried... I... I'm fine. I handled everything by myself. I didn't let him touch me and managed to cover my body well. I'm so sorry, Nik."

Finally the young man let out a heavy sigh before turning to look at her, his anger was still present but her apology somewhat relieved him.

"It's okay, don't be sorry," he said, softly. "You had no control over the situation and you couldn't know that he would suddenly enter the room like that. You didn't do anything wrong."

"Nik, close the door.", she wished.

"Umm, okaaay?!", his expression became slightly confused when she asked him to close the door.

And he then closed the door and locked it, making the room feel even more private and safe. His attention then returned to her and he was trying to find a way to make her feel better, still holding her close.

"Nik, I don't want the servants to hear or know about our situation. They can be a bit snoopy."

"You're right, I think it's better if we keep this matter just between us. That way no one will know about it except for us. How are you feeling now?"

"Better. Now that you're here."

"Glad to hear that you're feeling better.

Just forget about the incident, that person who disrespected you is just nothing but a stupid nuisance. You don't have to worry about him ever coming near you again."

"Yes, Nik. Nobody will seperate us"

"Yes, you're right. No one, not even the most powerful man on the universe can separate us. We have a strong bound and it doesn't matter how strong whoever tries to separate us will be, they can never succeed. I swear, I will always be by your side and I will never let anything or anyone get in the way of our love."

"Fate is on our side. Because Fate united us."

He looked at her with genuine admiration and affection in his eyes. He liked the way she thinks and the way she saw their relationship.

"Damn, right. It's Fate that brought us together and we have a true bound between us. I mean... It's like we were made to be with each other and whoever tries to separate us is fighting against destiny itself.", he chuckled which made her feel better.

"Uhhh, Nik?", Alex noticed.

"Hmm?"

"Turn around, please. I still need to get dressed, my love.", she shyly added.

"Thanks, Nik. Now don't try to peak."

"I... umm... sorry about that." is face suddenly flushed with embarrassment. He immediately looked away, he just couldn't hide his blush. She was completely right and he couldn't control himself from taking one glimpse at her body. He kept his eyes.

While she was busy getting dressed, his eyes were still focused on the floor and he couldn't help but notice her beautiful curves. Her body had just no words to describe it. For her she was simply hot and he was feeling incredibly attracted to her, and the thought that she was now wearing nothing but her bra was not helping. He looked away, but then he peaked a little. Only a little. At the sight of her, she was having difficulties with wearing her gown. His heart beat increased and he felt like he had to help her. So he walked behind her and he tried to tie her dress in the back. He noticed that she had a very beautiful back, her body was like a work of art. He was now trying to tie the knot in the back but without letting her notice that he was looking at her back.

He was trying very hard to keep his eyes on the knot and not just on her body. He was almost finished with it when she suddenly leaned back her head, as if she was stretching to relax. Which in turn exposed her cleavage a little bit and it made his heart speed up even faster. She now moved away from him, straightend herself and turned herself to face her lover. She gave him a sweet smile before she spoke in a serious voice.

"Nik, thanks for everything. My love, but you must leave now. I do not want the servants or guards think that my desperate scream was because of you, which is not true. Hurry, before they see you at this time in my chambers. I don't want you get in trouble, my heroic prince."

The moment she suggested that he had to leave, he felt a bit disappointed, but he understood her thoughts. Both don't want anyone to assume he was the one who made her terribly scream out of fear which wasn't even him. Nik was a bit reluctant to leave her alone, but he was really careful to hide his sadness and disappointment from her.

"Yes, that may be better... The servants may get suspicious about me staying here late at night for too long. I'll be going then, my love."

With her lips pressed noe against his, he got overwhelmed with emotion. Her taste still made him feel butterflies in his stomach, and the thought of leaving her alone now filled him with sadness and worry, but he knew he had no other choice, so he reluctantly had to pull back from her lips after they had shared a long and romantic kiss.

"I'll be going now. I'll see you in the morning, my love.", he promised while holding her hand in his.

"See you tomorrow, my beloved."

When she called him her his beloved, he fell even more in love with her. Her words filled his heart with pure joy, and the fact that they would be seeing each other soon was such a relief. After one last tender kiss, he slowly took one step back, waved goodbye at her, and then silently left the room. Tomorrow they will meet again <3

#choices fanfiction #choices fanfic #fae royalty #strong woman #choices nightbound #nightbound #choices #playchoices #fmc x nik ryder #nik ryder x fmc #nik ryder #cfwc #choices fic writers creations

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the-kr8tor · 6 months

Text

Mudwood Manor

Pairing: Fae! Hobie Brown x fem! Reader

Word count: 3.1k

Tags: no use of Y/N, no specific physical description of the reader, CW food mention, TW Blood, CW injury.

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Part I >>> Part II

You lay awake alone on the plush mattress that's not your own. Morning light filtering through the curtains, shining warmth right on your cheek. Your hand roaming around the soft fur of the blanket as the clock ticks slowly to eight. Eyes above the detailed swirling patterns on the bed's canopy, mind drifting back to the home you've left just a few days ago.

Tick.

Taking the ad for this house-sitting gig went better than you thought it would be. Thinking the house you would be watching over will just be a regular house in an urban subdivision. Not an estate full of ancient history situated in the middle of nowhere with only an elderly dog as a companion.

Tock.

At least it's better than your dead end job that makes you feel your soul is getting sucked with every hour you stay on the eighties musky carpeted floors, tapping away your entire life on the grainy screen of the corporate issued computer. The pay's good, better than what you were getting before anyway, even though it's only five months of house sitting it's way above your salary grade. You thank whatever entity out there that blew over the newspaper that literally landed on your lap while waiting for the bus stop, the 'help wanted' page open and glaring right at you. You only wish the job's longer though.

Tick.

The house being nice is an understatement, all oak and narra floors, fixtures and furniture made of the same wood. No sign of modernity in the entire estate. Even the kitchen is in an old style, well except for the coffee maker and microwave. Every hall and wall is covered in oil paintings, portraits of people dressed in old garb keep watch of your every move. The house creaks and shrieks during the late hours of the cold autumn night, always prompting you to keep your eyes tightly closed in an attempt to tamp down your curiosity.

Tock.

It's secluded enough that the air here feels crisp and cleaner than in the city. Trees whisper in the wind, moss clinging to its trunks. You suspect the house is as old as the woods that surround it. With vines curled and looped around the house's exterior and curved stained glass windows decorate its walls. Mudwood Manor they call it for every time it rains, mud gathers around the estate, threatening to swallow you like quick sand.

Chime!

The old grandfather clock's hand reaches eight, the sound echoes around the large room you've settled in. With an exhale, you reluctantly sit up, feet cold from the icy floor. Yawning, you wipe the sleep off your face, bones crying out in protest.

Lumbering your way through the usual morning routine, you change out of your pajamas even though no one else would see you in it, you still wear your usual day clothes, always feeling like you have to dress appropriately in this opulent house. If jeans and a jumper is considered appropriate in the massive estate.

The bathroom is no different than the rest of the house. With the large stark white bathtub in the middle of its tiled floors, twin sinks covered in dark marble, golden faucets squeak open as you turn the knob to brush your teeth. The entire bathroom is as big as your flat back in the city, you scoff at the extravagance of it all.

You like to think the owner of the place fits well with the manor, as eccentric and elegant as their home– all pearls and gold rings, silk and cashmere on their body. But alas you've never met him or them personally, only talking details on the telephone, his gruff voice vibrating against the receiver. They leave the key under the large mat after you've driven three hours to get there. The only clue you have of them actually existing is the instructions they've left you. The note now pinned on the fridge stocked full of food that could last you the entire five months, not to mention the large pantry that could feed an entire village.

You've got everything you'll ever need to survive five months alone. The thought scares you for a bit, but with the silence, fresh air and an entire library of books that you've never thought you could read in your lifetime, the loneliness isn't all bad, the place calms you down; if not for the bouts of sadness, you could see this place as your home for the time being.

The old border collie waits for you in the kitchen, mismatched eyes staring at your form, her tongue lolling on the side, greeting you with what you see as a smile.

"Morning, old Nellie" you greet back with a quick pet on her fluffy head, taking the time to scratch behind her ears. She wags her tail happily, while her eyes are closed in content. You've decided to talk from time to time so that you don't lose your voice, which Nellie appreciates the chatter.

You feed Nellie her breakfast first before fixing one yourself. She eats it in glee. The instructions written in neat cursive jumps at you every morning before opening the fridge.

You can't help but read it again.

1. Do not let anyone in.

You thought that was reasonable enough, it's not your place to invite people in here anyway.

2. Do not wipe the salt line on the doors and windows.

Now that's weird, you've always thought, but to each their own. The salt probably helps with keeping out the smell or rodents. Right?

3. The house is old, the sounds at night are from the metal pipes and scaffolding. Nothing to worry about.

Creepy, it's not like the place needs an extra creep factor added in it.

4. Feed Nellie three times a day without fail. Take her on walks around the estate every morning and before the sun sets.

That's alright, taking care of pets was part of the deal anyway. And it doesn't hurt that Nellie's a good dog to hang around with.

5. Do not in any circumstance go to the woods.

6. Wear the necklace at all times.

Your eyes drift over to the simple circular metal necklace sitting on the counter top, scoffing, you chose not to wear it just because an eccentric millionaire tells you to.

7. Only eat and drink the food I have provided.

You don't think you want to meet the owners now with how creepy they are just based on his instructions. Possessive much?

8. Be wary.

A shiver runs down your spine by just reading those two words.

You shake it off, opening the fridge, nothing piques

your interest this morning. Huffing, you have a hankering for fresh bread, alas you've eaten the last loaf yesterday. The strawberry jam inside the fridge mocks you. You recall on your drive to the manor you've passed by a small village, you're sure the place has a bakery or even a café in it. You crave a different scenery, and to use your voice other than for talking to Nellie.

Turning around, you put your hands on your hips, smiling at your companion who licks at the last bit of food in her bowl.

"What do you say for a stroll, Nellie?" She tilts her head in question, ears perking up, tail wagging excitedly.

—

You've never felt more isolated from civilization while walking towards the village, no houses run along the bumpy road, just miles and miles of trees with its aging wood, wild violets swaying around its trunks. The tall grass makes it hard to see the path. Mist blanketing and moistening the soil.

The walk was a lot longer than you thought it would be, now you're absolutely starving after walking for almost an hour. Nellie wasn't complaining though, for an older dog she seems to have so much energy in her. The village has clearly seen history, with its cobblestone streets, iron lampposts and ancient bricks. The fog thickens, blanketing the roofs of the village like marshmallow fluff.

You tie her leash around a lamp post, petting her fluffy head, you instruct her to sit and stay. She obliges, staring happily at you through her blue and brown eyes.

"Good girl, I'll be back in a flash" you make a mental note of buying her a treat for being such a good sport while you drag her from the manor.

Entering the shop, the bells chime signaling your arrival. Freshly baked bread wafts your senses as various meat is on display over at the counter, waiting for your perusal. You smell the soup of the day, judging by the aroma, you deduce it being butter squash soup, your stomach rumbles at the thought.

The modest shop has quite a few people in it. They chatter amongst their friends whilst eating breakfast and drinking their morning tea. Another patron enters behind you, she greets everyone by name, while the others immediately greet her the same. Well, except for a group of strangers sitting at the far end, they pay her no mind at all. It's a small village, you never doubted for a second that everyone would know every person that lives here. You've anticipated it actually, so used to being alienated from the crowd, you haven't noticed the old woman beckoning you over with a smile.

"Bonnie?" She calls for the third time.

"Oh! Sorry, I was thinking what to order" you move closer to the counter, the chill from the cold cuts display seeps through your jumper.

"You're the new caretaker at the old manor I presume?" She grins sweetly, showing her smile lines around her lips.

"House-sitter, I'm only here for five months" you're wary about telling her vital information, but she's an old woman. What's the harm in telling her that?

"Oh, I see he's going for a quick business trip this time. He would usually take an entire year away, y'know" her thick accent makes it hard for you to understand some of her words. Nonetheless, you don't miss the vital information about your mysterious employer. "But I don't gossip" she chuckles, "what will it be, deary?"

"You know Mr. O'hara, the owner?"

"Aye, known him since he was a lad. Good kid he was." She shakes her head. "There I go gossiping again, what are you havin'?"

You want more answers to feed your curiosity, but you don't want to pester the poor woman. "A BLT with cheese if you have them, lightly toasted and some of the soup, please." she nods, heading over to her station to prepare your sandwich when an older man chides in your conversation.

"Oh please, Orla y'know stopping yourself from gossiping just hurts you more" he laughs from his belly, white beard bouncing as he guffaws with his friends sitting him with.

"This" Orla, gestures from you to her. "Was a private conversation, where's your manners?"

"Don't know where I last put it!" He laughs again, shaking the wooden table in front of him. "Miss, let me guess, O'hara gave you those crazy rules?"

You perk up at the mention of the list. "Yeah, he did. How'd you know?"

He shrugs while the other patrons listen in, "he does the same thing to his other caretakers, there's a 'be wary' one, right?"

"Yes, it's really creepy"

The old woman pipes up, talking over her shoulder as she slices your sandwich. "It's a necessary evil after what happened to his daughter"

"What happened to his daughter?" You ask with trepidation.

"Don't tell me you actually believe that, old woman?" The older man argues back.

"Believe what?" You feel like there's an inside joke you keep missing.

"She was taken by them." Orla, turns around with your soup packed in a tupperware. You look at her questioningly.

"Bullshit if you ask me" the old man mumbles behind his mug. He sees your confused look, "she's talking about the fae" you thank him with a nod.

"It's true!" She wraps your sandwich inside foil, carefully putting it inside the paper bag. "There's no logical answer on where she is! Now it's just O'Hara in that massive estate."

"Kid just ran away, that's all!" Another older man argues back.

"Pssh," Orla swats him away with her hand, he turns away with a scoff. She turns back towards you, ringing your order up in the cashier. "Just do what his list says and you'll be fine" she says it like a warning to never stray far from the rules.

"Why do you think it's the fae?" You give her the payment she needs.

Humming, she clicks her tongue. "Just know it's them."

"Okay, um thank you" drifting away, she holds your arm back, taking your attention again.

Orla looks at you with wide eyes. "You know about them, yes?"

"Yes, like don't eat their food or you'll get stuck or don't give them your name or say thank you. I've heard the folk stories"

"Not just a story. The wood sings and they crave an audience." she lets go of your arm, your breath hitching, goosebumps appear on your skin.

You shake the thought, or try to at least.

The door chimes as you leave. Nellie lays on the pavement, tail wagging as she sees you come back to her side.

"Hi, got you something" she stands up, barking at you in excitement. "Okay, okay, here" Chuckling, you take a slice of bacon from your sandwich, giving it to her.

Nellie carefully takes it from your hand without biting your fingers, she chews happily.

"Good?" You scratch behind her fluffy ear. "Let's go back" untying her leash, you juggle the sandwich and her lead with your hands. The horror stories you've been told in your youth echoes in your mind, as your soft footfalls on the moist pavement. Wind rushes past you, pushing you back towards the manor.

—

Arriving inside the gates of Mudwood Manor, you gaze at the large brick building. It casts a shadow over you, its stature imposing. Fading bricks and trellises crawling with overgrown vines that's starting to wither and turn dark with bits of oranges and red still clinging to its last life. The large red door of the main entrance adds to your uneasiness. You attribute the fear from what the deli owner told you, the woods don't look much better. Tall trees with leaves so thick it blocks sunlight from hitting the undergrowth. From where you're standing, darkness seems to prevail inside. The thick fog added to the eeriness of the scene. It drapes over the treeline like curtains, swirling smoke falling down to the tips of your shoes, hiding something behind you can't quite see.

Just staring from the woodland edge gives you a sense of belonging with every second you stand idle. You have no idea why this feeling encapsulates you. The wind tries to push you towards the dark, flashes of autumn colored leaves swirl past. Eyelashes fluttering in the wind, your lips part as you listen to the flora dancing in the wind, as if it beckons you over. Daring you to cross the edge.

You wake up from the trance as Nellie growls at a squirrel taunting her from the ground. She pulls at her leash, the rope taut, your hand aches at the burn. You let go of the paper bag, half eaten soup spills over the grass, now holding the leash with both hands, you struggle to control the border collie.

"Nellie, calm down!" You yelp in pain when Nellie lunges, escaping your hold. The rope leaves angry marks on your palms, skin aching from the piercing pain. Nellie runs, following the grey squirrel into the woods. You can hear her barks fading in the distance. "Nellie! Come back!" You yell but it's futile as the old dog disappears from view.

"Fuck!" Without thinking, you run after her, legs carrying you further into the thick trees. The fog parts, opening the way. Eyes roaming the moss covered soil for her footprints. "Nellie!"

You're gonna lose your job, the thought makes you run faster. Tripping on a rock, you land on your already injured hand, dirt and grime sticking to the angry gashes, blood mixing with soil. Ignoring the pain, you push through the thicket.

Running, muscles aching, there's a stitch on your side as you stop to catch your breath. Hands on your thighs, you inhale and exhale. Nellie's footprints are barely visible under all the green and orange. Standing to your full height, your heart thumping like a drum under your ribcage. Eyes widening at the darkness that envelopes you, whirling around, fear overtakes your entire being.

You're lost.

Everywhere you look, identical trees fill your vision, cold seeping into your bones, smoke escapes your parted lips. Fingers turning stiff, you turn around when you hear Nellie's familiar bark.

"Nellie! Come here, girl!" You clap your hands to get her attention. "Nellie!"

Another bark echoes out in the dark, with only bits of sunlight filtering through the thicket, you let your other senses guide you to the sound. Speed walking, dry leaves crunch under your shoes, you call out to Nellie again. Narrowly avoiding a tree root protruding from the ground, you step over it so you don't land face first into the moist soil.

You stop when silence permeates the woods again. Standing still, a ring of mushrooms at your feet, you breathe heavily. "Nellie!" Frustrated, you yell again.

Instinctively stepping past a mushroom, you move your neck around, eyes roaming, looking for her white and black fur. Your palms land to your clammy forehead, wincing when you graze your injury.

"Fuck!" You stop circling around when the woods seem to expand right in front of your eyes, moving, flinging away, adding to the acres of wooded land. Vision focusing and unfocusing as the expanse extends further away. Fear once again blankets your nerves. Your mind claws at you to keep running.

"Lost?" A deep voice asks behind you. Alluring, tempting you to answer back.

Your blood suddenly runs cold. Primal fear makes your heart leap out of your chest.

Light suddenly appears behind you, your shadow gets taller and taller until it finally leaves you. Alone, you don't dare look behind you. The hair on the back of your neck stands up despite the warmth radiating from behind. Trepidation howls inside you.

Blood rushes in your ears, knuckles tighten, nails digging into skin as crimson drips on the tall grass below.

Swallowing the lump in your throat, curiosity wins over you.

You dare look behind.

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