Summary: Nathan, the infatuated guard of the church who helped Katherine escape, comes back to Mystic Falls to avenge the Salvatore brothers for Katherine's fixation to them in 1864. This occurence causes Elena to admit to herself, Damon, and Stefan how she really feels about Damon. Set after the Season Finale, at the start of the next school year.
Prologue: Unwise Infatuation
Mystic Falls, 1864
Fire blazed in the night as the vampires were rounded up to be properly disposed of. The citizens of the town grouped in small clusters to stay safe from the 'demons of the night'. Could anyone understand how the frightened, fragile humans won the battle between them and the vampires? As they say, 'Strength comes in numbers'.
Nathan Brown whispered a silent prayer to the sky in hope that one of the demons might be spared. Life was meaningless to him without the feeling the sight of those dazzlingly warm brown eyes brought him. He knew the woman was not his to love, but he couldn't control his obsession.
Not only did he love Katherine Pierce, but her species was fascinating to him. He always wondered how it might be to live forever. The problem of killing humans to stay sated was tolerable if it meant spending eternity with her.
The carriages were drawing near, causing Nathan's heart to come to a standstill. Shadows flickered across the dull gray exterior of the church, causing the night to seem even more haunted than it was in reality. He stood diligently at the entrance and watched as the people were about to drag the weakened Katherine into the church along with the other demons.
He felt the tears burn down his face as he realized he could help her escape.
The plan formed into his head quickly, and without another thought, he shouted and hid behind the bushes at the entry. Everyone turned towards the noise, which bought him enough time to unlock Katherine's bindings. He stuffed the master key all men of the Council were given, and caught the other vampire's eye - Pearl, that's what her name was. He widened his eyes and gave her a pleading look. He didn't have enough time to see if she acknowledged it or not - the men were coming back hastily.
Nathan held on to Katherine's waist and half dragged her out of sight.
He summoned up all of his courage and spoke to her with a firm tone. "You owe me, Miss Katherine."
She coughed and spoke in her wonderful voice. "Of course, sir," Her beautiful eyes watched him steadily. "What shall be your reward?"
He thought of everything he wanted from this woman, but found his deepest desire was unexpected.
"Turn me into a vampire."