The royals exchange nervous glances, realizing they are in deep trouble. Nikki's power is immense and terrifying, far beyond anything they had anticipated. The air crackles with her energy, and the ground trembles beneath her feet.
The memory of what Nikki did at Laurel's birthday party came rushing back. She had the same back then. No, it wasn't the same- this one had a scary murder intent. The only reason they survived last time was because of Prince Lucian. This time, there will be no saving them.
Nikki smiled wickedly, "Let the true bloodshed begin".
She soared into the air, her silhouette framed against the ominous night sky, and called upon the storm. Rain began to pour, but it was no ordinary rain; instead, razor-sharp shards of ice fell from the heavens, targeting the demon royals. The lower demon royals shrieked as they were impaled, their forms suspended in the air, caught in a deadly ballet of ice and fury.
She extended her other hand, and the sky above darkened, swirling with storm clouds. Lightning crackled and thunder roared as she summoned the fury of the elements. Bolts of lightning struck down with pinpoint accuracy, reducing more of the lower demons to burnt husks. The smell of burnt flesh filled the air, but Nikki revelled in the chaos.
With a mere thought, she lifted the remaining demons into the air, their bodies contorted in unnatural angles as they struggled against her invisible grip. She watched with cruel satisfaction as they writhed in pain, their bones snapping and breaking under the immense pressure.
"Nikki are you okay?" Ariel asked, terrified by the showcase of her powers.
With a flick of her wrist, Nikki sends a wave of telekinetic force towards Prince Andrew. He is lifted off his feet and hurled into pointed ice spikes. The spikes impale him through the chest, and blood pours from his mouth as he gasps his last breath.
"Nikki please stop", Laurel pleaded.
She lifted Laurel into the air, her body contorted in unnatural angles as Laurel struggled against her invisible grip. She watched with cruel satisfaction as she writhed in pain, her bones snapping and breaking under the immense pressure.
Nikki's eyes flash with sadistic glee as she turns her attention to Princess Nyx. She raises her hand, and a surge of telekinetic energy rips Nyx's limbs from her body. Blood sprays in all directions as Nyx screams in agony, her dismembered body collapsing to the ground in a gruesome heap.
Next, Nikki focuses on Prince Caleb. She conjures a storm of lightning, directing a bolt straight at him. With an invisible and strong force, she draws his heart out. He falls to the ground unconscious as she holds his heart in her hand.
Princess Aria tries to flee, but Nikki's telekinesis grabs her by the throat, lifting her into the air. Nikki tightens her grip, crushing Aria's windpipe. Aria's eyes bulge, and her face turns purple as she struggles for breath. With a final, brutal squeeze, Nikki snaps her neck, letting her lifeless body drop to the ground.
Asriel attempts to fight back, drawing his sword and charging at Nikki. But she effortlessly disarms him with a telekinetic wave, sending his sword flying. She then levitates a nearby mace and drives it into his skull with bone-crushing force. Blood splatter across the arena his body crumples.
Princess Lyra stands frozen in terror. Nikki smiles wickedly and summons a storm of daggers, each one hovering in the air around her. With a flick of her fingers, the daggers shoot forward, piercing every inch of the Lyra's body. Blood pours from the wounds, and she falls to the ground, her body a pincushion of lethal blades.
Finally, Ariel stands alone, his eyes wide with fear. Nikki raises both hands, summoning the Amar fire. The black fire engulfed his body, scorching him. His body is burnt instantly, reduced to a smouldering pile of ash.
Nikki's eyes glowed brighter as she called upon her dark powers. Shadows writhed and twisted around her, taking on monstrous forms. They surged forward, consuming the remnants of the fallen demons, leaving no trace of their existence.
After the shadows took care of the demons, Nikki's eyes goes back to normal and she fall to the ground and becomes unconscious.
Lucian watches from where he sits. Seeing the tournament went as he wanted, he smiled. He had finally found her.
Ryder rushes to the arena and carries Nikki out, with the crowd of demons cheering for Nikki who is by no doubt the champion of the Blood tournament.
Back in the human realm,
At Sawyer Mansion,
Nikki's room,
Nikki is sitting on her bed, exhausted from a long day. She woke up earlier and was told by Ryder that she had another power outburst and she won the Blood tournament.
She feels a slight headache as she tries to remember what happened but she doesn't recall anything. She picks up her phone and dials Alan's number. He answers on the second ring.
"Hey there, beautiful. How's your day going?"
She sighs, "It's been rough. I'm really stressed out. I really need a distraction".
"I'm sorry to hear that. How about I pick you up and we go out for a bit? I have just the place in mind".
Smiling slightly, she responded "That sounds perfect. Thank you".
Later Alan picks her up and his driver drove them to a bar. As they arrive, the neon lights of the bar illuminate the night, and the sound of laughter and music fills the air. They make their way to the VIP lounge, where the atmosphere is electric with excitement
It is a trendy, up-scale bar with a vibrant atmosphere. The VIP lounge is elevated, offering a great view of the main floor. The lounge is cozy yet stylish, with plush seating and mood lighting. The karaoke stage is set up with a spotlight, and the crowd is lively, cheering on the performers.
Alan takes her to the bar stand and they sit on the stools beside each other. He signals the bartender and the bartender walks towards them.
He greeted with a smile, "What can I do for you Master Alan?"
"Get me two of the usual", Alan replied.
"Yes sir", the bartender acknowledged before leaving to prepare their drinks.
"Looks like you are a regular here", Nikki teased.
"Actually, I own the place", he responded with a mischievous smirk.
"You own this place?" she asked, disbelief on her face.
"Yes", he smiled.
"Does your mum know about this?"
"She would kill me if she found out. So that means you must keep it a secret okay".
"That's one more of your secret that I know now", she smirked.
"Don't let it get to your head. It doesn't mean you are important".
She rolled her eyes, "Yeah sure that's what they all say".
"Anyways Ben do we have any special event going on today?" Alan asked as he noticed a couple going up stage grabbing microphones in their hands.
"Yes, we have karaoke night today", the bartender replied.
"Karaoke night?" Nikki turns towards Alan with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Nikki?"
"So, what do you say? Ready to show everyone what we've got?"
"You want to do karaoke?"
"Why not? Don't tell me the all high and mighty Alan is too sacred. Do you have a terrible voice?" she teased.
"You wish. Since you want to, let's do this", he said as he got up from his seat.
"Sure", she smiled as she rose to her feet.
They make their way to the stage, the crowd cheering them on. They reach the stage, and they each grab a microphone.
"Alright, everyone! We've got a superstar in the house! Nikki, you ready?"
She playfully rolls her eyes, "Only if you promise to sing with me!"
"Sure. What are we singing?"
She thinks for a moment, "How about you pick any song?"
Alan selects a fun, upbeat duet and the music starts. Alan and Nikki stand facing each other, a few feet apart.
Nikki starts,
*Underneath the city lights,
I see you dancing, looking so fine.
Every glance pulls me in tight,
Can't help but want to make you mine *
He lifts his hand, guiding her into an underarm turn. As she spins, her dress flares out, revealing her toned legs. She completes the turn, landing back in his arms, their faces inches apart.
Nikki continues,
*Whispers in the summer breeze,
Heartbeats racing, can't you see?
Your smile's got me mesmerized,
Caught up in this sweet surprise *
He places his hand on her lower back, pulling her closer. They perform a slow, sensual body roll, their torsos pressed together. Her hands glide up his chest, adding to the steamy atmosphere.
They both sing together,
*Dame una noche, just you and me,
Lost in the rhythm, let it be.
Feel the heat rising, can't deny,
You're the fire in my sky.
Dame una noche, let's steal the show,
Moments like this, I want to glow
Hold me close, don't let me go,
In your arms, I'll take it slow*
He steps to the side, guiding her across his body. As she passes, he lightly brushes his hand along her waist, sending shivers down her spine. She completes the move, facing him again with a smouldering gaze.
Alan sings,
*Every step, a perfect dance,
In your eyes, I see romance.
With every move, we take our time,
Two souls intertwined, it feels so right *
He dips her low, her back arching gracefully. He holds her securely, their faces close enough to feel each other's breath. He then sweeps her back up, their bodies sliding against each other in a tantalizing motion.
Alan continues,
*Whispers in the summer breeze,
Heartbeats racing, can't you see?
Your smile's got me mesmerized,
Caught up in this sweet surprise *
They sway their hips in unison, the movement slow and deliberate. The girl's hands rest on the boy's shoulders, while his hands grip her waist. The connection between them is electric, each sway heightening the tension.
*Dame una noche, just you and me,
Lost in the rhythm, let it be.
Feel the heat rising, can't deny,
You're the fire in my sky.
Dame una noche, let's steal the show,
Moments like this, I want to glow.
Hold me close, don't let me go,
In your arms, I'll take it slow *
He steps behind her, their bodies aligned. They move together in perfect harmony, their movements synchronized. His hands trail down her arms, sending sparks of desire through her.
*The night is young, let's chase the stars,
With you, I'll forget the scars.
Every laugh, every sigh,
Together we'll touch the sky *
He spins her back into his arms, their bodies pressed tightly together. They move as one, their steps quickening in a burst of passionate energy. her leg hooks around his, adding an intimate touch.
*Dame una noche, just you and me,
Lost in the rhythm, let it be.
Feel the heat rising, can't deny,
You're the fire in my sky.
Dame una noche, let's steal the show,
Moments like this, I want to glow.
Hold me close, don't let me go,
In your arms, I'll take it slow *
She breaks away momentarily, flipping her hair back with a sultry smile. He watches, captivated by her allure. She returns to him, their connection even more intense.
*Dame una noche, just you and me,
Lost in the magic, wild and free.
Together we'll dance till the dawn,
In this moment, we'll carry on *
They both drop the microphones in their hands on the microphone stand and face each other.
He leads her into a series of fast spins, their movements a blur of passion and energy. her dress flares out, and her hair whips around, adding to the dramatic effect.
He catches her mid-spin, dipping her low once more. This time, their faces are even closer, their lips almost touching. The air is thick with desire, and the audience holds its breath.
He pulls her back up, spinning her into a final, close embrace. They end the dance with their bodies pressed together, their faces inches apart. The music fades, and they stand there, breathing heavily, their eyes locked in a heated gaze.
The audience erupts in applause as they step off the stage. They return to their seats, still buzzing from the performance.
"Not bad. You did better than I expected", she smiled.
"Thanks. You didn't do bad either".
She leans in, speaking softly, "Thank you for tonight. I really needed this".
He kisses her forehead, "Anytime. I'm just happy to see you smile again".
The next morning,
At Sawyer Mansion,
In the dim, flickering light of the living room, morning sunlight struggled to penetrate the heavy, dark curtains, lending a surreal quality to the scene. The air was thick with hidden tensions as Nikki wobbled into the room, reeking of alcohol. Her lustrous, dark blonde hair fell dishevelled around her shoulders, and the hint of an uncertain smile danced at her lips.
As she stepped in, her fiancé, Prince Rylan, stood nearby, concern etched on his handsome features. "Nikki!" he exclaimed, rushing toward her. "Where have you been all night? And why do you reek of alcohol?"
With a giggle that felt foreign yet liberating, she leaned against the door frame. "Oh, you know, I drank... a lot!" Her voice wavered between playful and dismissive, echoing in the high ceilings.
At that moment, the heavy oak doors swung open, and in stepped her mother, Queen Sabrina, regal and imposing, followed closely by her younger sister, Alison, whose wide, innocent eyes flickered between curiosity and concern.
Sabrina narrows her eyes as she looks at Nikki. "What is the meaning of this? Out all night and this?"
"Sister where were you?" Alison asked looking confused and concerned
Nikki sighed as she knows an argument is inevitable, she attempted an exit. "Mother! I'm so tired. If you need me, we can talk later." Her voice took on a weary note as she headed towards the corridor.
But Rylan wasn't done. "Wait, Nikki!" He took a breath, determination in his eyes. "I came to discuss our engagement. The wedding is in just two weeks, and we need to finalize the arrangements, including the visit to Lupricha's Pool for our rituals."
At his words, Nikki whirled around, laughter spilling from her lips—rich and unexpected. Her mother's eyes narrowed, Alison's gaze darted back and forth, bewildered.
"What's so funny?" Rylan questioned; his brow furrowed in confusion.
Nikki's laughter faded into a sly smile. "Well, since you've made the effort to find me, I might as well do you the favour of telling you now: our engagement is off. We are no longer engaged."
Her straightforwardness hung heavy in the air like a storm cloud poised to burst. "Now that we've gotten that over with," she continued, her voice nonchalant, "I'd like to have some rest because my head's killing me."
Before she could turn on her heel, her mother's voice sliced through the tension like a knife. "What do you think you're doing, young lady? Don't you know you need a fiancé for your coronation?"
Nikki regarded her mother indifferently, as if she were simply an ant beneath her boot. "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty, but I'll handle my own affairs. I don't necessarily need a fiancé for my coronation. The only reason I was engaged to him was that I was half demon and power dormant. Now? Not so much. He was only a means for me to secure the throne. Besides," she added with a smirk, glancing at Alison, "shouldn't he be glad I'm letting him go? He has a chance to be with you now. It's a win-win for everyone."
Alison, sweet and innocent, finally piped up, her voice a soft tremor. "Sister, why are you saying this? I know Rylan loves you. It's not our fault that we both… well…" She faltered, her cheeks tinged with embarrassment.
Nikki scoffed, "Feeling too guilty to say it? Why? I thought you didn't have any shame since you were happy doing it behind my back".
Rylan looks shocked and conflicted, his gaze darting between Nikki and Alison, "Is this true? You knew about this?"
Nikki smirks slightly, her tone icy, "Of course, I knew. I'm not blind. But it doesn't matter anymore. You're free to be with whomever you want. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need some rest".
With her patience thin, Nikki turned to leave, only to be suddenly immobilized by an unseen, oppressive force that sent her knees crashing to the ground. She looked up, her expression twisted between amusement and rage. "Don't you ever learn, Mother?" Her eyes glowed crimson, and with a surge of dark magic, she broke free, rising to her feet.
A dark ichor began to pour from Sabrina's nose, and she collapsed, trembling violently. "Mother!" Alison screamed, rushing forward, panic gripping her heart. Rylan followed; his princely demeanour eclipsed by worry.
A tense silence fell as Nikki's eyes flickered back to normal, the chaos within her settling. She surveyed the room with a cold gaze, her voice deceptively calm as she asked, "The engagement is over. Anyone got a problem with that?"
Both Rylan and Alison shook their heads vigorously, fear evident in their expressions. "No," they murmured in unison.
"Good," she said, a deceptively sweet smile curving her lips. "I'll be going to my room now. Make sure to take care of your mother." With a single, sweeping motion, she exited the chamber, leaving behind an uneasy silence.
The room is left in a state of chaos and fear as Alison and Rylan rushed to Sabrina's side. Sabrina lies on the ground, slowly recovering from the ordeal, while Alison and Rylan desperately try to help her. The echoes of Nikki's footsteps fade away, leaving a chilling silence in their wake.