The New Species

by Infinity-lover.fighter14

It's been 10 years since the events of TVD & TO. Caroline has set off on her own adventures and her drama studies have led her to perform in Russia where she discovers she's a reincarnated royal. A Medieval Russian royal family is reunited and with this, the rise of a new species of vampires gains attention from New Orleans. Klaroline & more, as well OCs. Cover art edits too!

11. The Re-encounter

Chapter 10) The Reencounter

Disclaimer: I do not own TVD or TO

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WARNING: 30,000 words! That's why it took so long! ALL IN ONE CH. I'm not even sure if I edited everything properly but please feel free to review and send constructive advice! SO MUCH Happens. I hope you like it!

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KPOV

It was late out by this hour. The hallways were darkened or dimly lit by this time. As I familiarized myself further with this branch of the Kremlin, I had found my way back to the grand dining room and the common room we sat in earlier.

Picking up the sounds, no one seemed to be around not even the help.

Everyone had retired to their own quarters after dinner but I knew certain people wouldn't be calmly tucked away just yet…

If I'm to carry out this plan, I'll need a little more information before I can head out.

Vladimir is no fool; I'm sure he's already planning to send for the girl. If he intends to present himself to my family, no doubt he'll be sure all his bases are covered. He's been keeping track of her life; and if she is a publicized icon, he cannot simply have her disappear without a trace. He must stage an explanation for her falling out of sight.

That'll surely be an intriguing plan out. All that's left for me is to calculate when and how to strike. I'm positive I can learn of her where about's if I locate Vladimir's private office, or perhaps listen in on his agenda…

Marcel informed me how he heard she was new to the agency in Paris they were dining at. That certainly wouldn't be her primary residency. Going on to describe her; she's said to be blonde like her sisters, long legs, slim frame, soft features with a dollish face, however seeming to have an uptight personality.

Hmm… sounds fun.

Sounds amusing to play with…

For now, I cannot be sure what's in store for her. The pretty faces are always the most fun to… dismantle. I could very easily make things gruesome and watch her vulnerable human existence crumble for my own enjoyment; it would eliminate the rise of another threat with these Slavic vampires.

However, the downside is I'd be the number one suspect; thus, erupting a war.

On the other hand, I could deliver her, not too ruined, to her family as a demonstration of good faith; doing well to extend this alliance and grant us trust with a further look into their creation. We'd learn of this spell, we'd learn how the girl would be turned and even what weaknesses their species harbor. After all, they are possibly even more of an abomination to nature than we are. Enchanting themselves to keep a portion of witch magic, without a doubt, has created dire consequences for them; severe weaknesses. It is law one can never be both…

Ah such a learning experience

What to do? What to do? One's more fun, the other would be more favored by Nik…

Hmm…. ah well, it'll depend on my mood.

Just as I quietly rounded a corner to continue my search, I was struck against the wall with a strong grip holding me

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CPOV

"What are youdoing here?!" I demanded in whisper for Kol to answer me. I've seriously been shell shocked thinking I'm seeing ghosts since before dinner started! Megara and Stasya let me know what was going on but after father's setup to properly introduce ourselves, all I could say was Kol himself was trouble.

I avoided bursting out earlier to not upset my father; though, I'm sure everyone could tell I felt an elephant in the room considering my powers were displayed by the frenzy of sudden flying objects during dinner.

Seeing that it was me, a sarcastic expression settled onto his face "Can a man not simply get up for a glass of water to help him get back to sleep?"

I scoffed, stepping back from him.

"I meant here in Moscow with us" actually not just that! "No, not just Moscow, on Earth?" I whispered a screech.

"You died years ago…." I was still so disbelieving.

Running my hands through my hair, he chuckled at seeing me so scattered.

"Well, you and I should both know how magic can bend the laws of nature when it's suited" he joked with a devilish smirk that made my skin crawl "I could tell you were quaking with curiosity when you flashed the potato salad at me earlier"

These past few weeks I've been thinking my powers react to heightened emotions; large evidence coming out earlier when food dishes took to the air without my realizing it. I have to be more alert about these things. Luckily, everyone showed a small sample of their power to subtlety hide my disposition.

I never really knew him all that well but he could possibly be called the most volatile of the originals. The last I knew of him he was on a rampage for revenge…

How long has he been back? What's happened…

"What's the matter, Caroline?... or do you prefer Natalia now?" he teased.

"…Oh I see, concerned I might have gone after your old friends?" I could feel my heart race at the thought. It had been years since I've been in touch…

(I'm gonna avoid that explanation; he may have sought revenge, currently having them chased like Klaus does it. He could have decided to move on after the reunification with his family. You can draw that out yourselves. I'm not really gonna reference how other TVD character's lives currently are. Sorry lol)

He shook his head at just seeing me so nervous with imagining all kinds of possibilities…

"Who knows, I was quite cranky with that whole ordeal" he drawled, just leaving me more confused… "But putting that aside, is this really anyway to treat your guest?"

I crossed my arms, sending him a dirty look.

"I know your family doesn't agree so" he circled around me "Besides, you should be thanking me. We're in the midst of forming a very ideal friendship and with that at hand… you'll get to see my brother again"

My breathing hitched at this mention.

Yes, I still can't believe they've been invited here! Why? Jeez, you go out shopping one day with your little sister and you just miss everything! Stasya and Megara had informed the rest of us on what happened in the Ukraine. How ironic can things get?

And how am I gonna explain myself here to … to Klaus…

… I'm going to see Klaus again…

My stomach knotted up just thinking about it. It's been years but it's not that long to a vampire. I didn't doubt the possibility of running into him again but I thought it'd be centuries from now.

I haven't seen him since…

Oh jeez! The memory is still fresh….

"I understand you two have such history together…" he softly noted.

An embarrassing flush of red took over my entire face

"What?" I screeched defensively, giving a sharp turn his direction to where he finally stopped pacing. My eyes widened at the volume, looking around frantically and listening in for anyone who might have heard my slip out.

He chuckled, shushing me with his finger over his mouth.

"Do you think I don't know what happened?" he went on teasing "The other side lets you learn quite many things"

My jaw dropped at that. That's it! The redness on my face took over my entire body.

"You-…!" I didn't get to finish as he lifted his arms defensively.

"Relax darling, I left as soon as I saw your jacket thrown off. I wasn't going to watch that. What kind of person do you think I am?" he taunted, just itching to burst out laughing at me.

Argh! I huffed, sending him a glare.

Seriously, I'm beyond the point of humiliation…!

"There's nothing to be embarrassed about" he put his hand on my shoulder "I think you two look wonderful together. And I'm sure he'll be just as fascinated to see this new side of you…"

Oh just when I thought he couldn't make me feel anymore awkward. I threw his hand off me, hugging my arms close, wishing my face would cool down already.

I was really not sure what to say. Especially since it's him I'm talking too…

With a final smirk he walks off down the hall, leaving me standing there.

I'm doomed…

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KPOV

The far off sounds led me to the east wing on the third floor. Approaching closer, I can make out the presence of Vladimir; among other vampires in what I'm assuming is his private office. If I'm to see, perhaps my eavesdropping would be better out looked through the windows. Making my way back down, I came across a balcony overlooking the courtyard. It was a windy night, with the moon overhead casting a full amount of light. I launching myself of the side of the estate and high among its structure walked myself back along its walls towards the level looking into the meeting room.

I'd have to be discrete. Luckily, the rumbles of the cold autumn winds keep any noises outside unsuspected. My heightened hearing would allow me to perfectly make out what is being said.

I finally reached the glass panes and carefully observed Vladimir present, along with Maxim and vampires ranking below them.

"With the events of yesterday, we must be quick tie up our loose ends. We all know by now I've located my 3rd eldest daughter. In the past two years I've tracked her down through various European magazine campaigns. Over this time, I've been allowing her to continue to live her life under vigilance until the proper time arrived; and it seems that shall be now… She is the last of my children, of all the Aleksandrovich to be turned until we are whole" he explained to his subordinates.

It's a good thing I fairly understand Russian. I understand it better than speak it but none the less it applies to help my task at hand. I knew he would make immediate plans…

"She will soon be in Monte Carlo for a business social event. The festivities will take place on a yacht. This setting proves opportunistic for it brings a proper stage of an accident with casualties to occur" good thinking

"Maxim if you please" he motioned toward his brother.

Stepping forward with a sudden motion of his hand, a waft of air came to apparition among the wall beside them a sort of vision. Remarkable, witnessing his hallucikinesis, Maxim had illuminated an image of a young woman, a girl really, like a projection.

I take it that's her; the visage was every bit true to Marcel's description. I must say beauty does well to run within these Aleksandrovich women. Among all of them earlier, including Caroline, there was this … sensual atmosphere… to their presence. I couldn't help a grin crossing my face; she certainly looks delicious…

I wonder what pureblood tastes like…

"Leonid" he faced another one of his vampires "you are one of my most trusted cohorts. I leave you to sphere head this operation and deliver my daughter safely here. I want her back here unharmed and well cared for. Can you do this for me?" he challenged.

Standing tall, an arm slightly over his chest, he gave a slight head bow "Yes, Lord Vladimir"

He nodded "You shall leave at dawn"

Flashing away from the window, back around to the balcony over the courtyard, I strolled back inside with a thrill. I have my destination, timing, target…

This is going to be so much fun…

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CPOV

It's heightened by strong emotions. It came so naturally when I faced Megara, and it was barely there when I moved around the food dishes but now it feels very tame. These past few weeks I've spent my spare time working with my telekinesis, trying to be more at one with it but it really feels somewhat limited. Could these be the effects of being a vampire with powers? It didn't seem like my sisters or cousins had any trouble with this, but then again each power was different so each can probably just have its special territory.

I can usually only move one object at a time. I wouldn't say it goes slowly but I feel it can't react that fast either.

Taking another sip of my tea, I now focused on the vase across the room. Soaring it up into the air, down onto the ground and pulling it up close to me to see the elaborately molded handles and detailed paint over the ceramic materials. Setting my cup down on the side table next to me, I used my other hand to focus on a portrait across the room. This is where things get a little tricky again. I'm focusing on the vase floating in front of me while trying to suspend the portrait off the wall.

Why was it hard to channel my reach onto both objects?

I tried concentrating more, pushing further and the portrait started trembling. There we go…

I shook, it clattered but suddenly so did the vase. It sank slightly. Quickly releasing the portrait, I focused back on to the vase to keep it steady.

I sighed, floating it back to its place.

Well, at least this managed to clear my head.

I took hold of my cup of tea, curling back comfortably on the sofa in the dark room. I was back in the common room we had been in earlier tonight. I would have lit the fireplace but I couldn't find a lighter or matches.

After tonight, and especially after the run in with Kol, I just couldn't shake the anxiety that came over me when I thought of how Klaus and his siblings were coming here.

I just don't get why.

Why do our families need to confront each other?

Judging by each other's backgrounds, I can't help but feel my father and Klaus meeting would be…tensioned. They both have a preservation type of character; they like to be informed, prepared and in control of the situation. Not to mention Klaus's paranoia.

Beside, I'm not even sure I know how I'll react when I do come face to face with Klaus again.

I mean the last time we were together… everything that was built up was completely expressed. It all unhinged.

Suddenly, the memory is so fresh its overwhelming just thinking about it.

So we… did the deed.

…. a couple times that day.

Then the finale of it was complete resolution and I didn't about have regrets once it was done because I knew it was what I wanted. Yes, later on I felt huge guilt when facing my friends again but I knew deep down I cared about him.

I was selfish, I wanted to have that one moment for myself; uncaring about the horrible truths and realities about Klaus, and then move on with my life…

And that's exactly what I did.

I moved on.

I realized maybe I needed to leave Mystic Falls too because I didn't want to be around any more dangerous villains with death at every corner. I want what every girl wants…

Adventure, fun, romance… and I never knew how much I wanted family.

To me it was always just my mom but now, I feel that void is filled in. Not in the most perfect way but it's still beautiful in its own sense.

I've got a great relationships going here with the family.

Some better than others…

I can't help but worry about what's gonna happen when these two families meet.

I trust both sides, but I think Klaus wanted to meet my father because he views him as a threat. I don't even know if Kol's told him I'm here.

And my father, he says it's to form an alliance, but I really get the vibe he doesn't trust them either. He's just coming out with our secret because they were already on track to discovering it all, and continuing to hide would only make us look more threatening or suspicious.

Secrecy wasn't supposed to be forever anyway.

Although, I haven't forgot what the archivist told me when I first visited the library; that my family has unknown enemies…

I sighed, leaning my head back into the seat with my cup sat on my knee cap.

I feel like all of a sudden I've joined one of those socialite family reality shows, supernatural style.

I've got a family feud to avoid; both within the family and outside of it, powers to learn how to use, not to mention I've got another competitive audition coming up with my various voice trainings, another sister that's just appeared reincarnated, and I'll have to face the person I committed the most scandalous and wild act ever in my life with.

How crazy can this get?!

All of a sudden, out of nowhere the coffee table in front of me jumped threw the air.

Gasping my senses allowed me to see it about to clatter to the ground but stopped once I shot my hand out to suspend it in place before it echoed a loud smash to wake everyone in the estate.

Heaving a sigh of relief, I set it down gently.

"Seriously?" I whisper a screech at the sudden fast speed of a heavy object reacting to my telekinesis. It does respond to emotions.

"It'll expand" I turned to the doorway, and there in the shadows stood Megara, arms crossed, staring back at me in her night gown and robe.

I wonder what she's doing up. No doubt she saw me spike up that table out of miss control.

I gave her a questioning look. Strolling in, she made her way around the living room setting.

"Your power" she referred "It can often spike high in times of distress, but it starts out in more weakened portions. It takes much training for you to harness it; you have to feel it, you become one with it..."

She moved around on of the side tables to face the vintage candelabra. Snapping, a flame manifested on tip of her finger "I started out simply lighting candles" lighting each one, they did well to bring some clarity to the space around us "or accidentally igniting my curtains and bedspread" she noted…

"After long trainings, mediations and struggles" she gave a swift turn "it grew stronger and more obedient to me" she ignited the fireplace with a loud blaze that splashed a few embers onto the tiles in front of it.

She turned back to me, hands wrapped over her arms again "Such a crime; nature wasn't going to make it easy for us" she's got a point.

Did she just give me advice?

See this is what I mean by still being a gracious person. We haven't really interacted with one another these past few weeks. We only tend to cross paths here at home. Much like Stasya, she's got this so superior stance to her, but I'm sure she's not as bad she's made herself out to be around me.

Eyes shifting about the room, I raced through my thoughts on trying to keep the conversation going "Yeah, uh I figured. It just kinda gets frustrating waiting for results" she nodded with an understanding shrug "Not to mention the fact that I'm usually a ticking time bomb…" I gave a laugh. Yeah, I can admit it "emotions are something that have always come strong to me" Once upon a time for an insecure neurotic control freak on crack.

She came around to lean against the side of the couch next to me, sighing with a stare into the fire "We're women; we empathize and process emotions in vaster amounts. In many ways, we have to work twice as hard as men" she noted, looking intently at the fire. Holding her gaze, the flames seemed to be rising "father and our uncles wer-ARE so mighty, I've always driven to expand my power to uphold the grandness of our name, whether male or female" she declared confidently.

"Without a doubt" I asserted "you and our cousins are impressive people"

I get everything she's saying; the desire to make our family proud, our father proud. Having Vladimir as a part of my life now, -er well, once again; I just get so giddy at the idea of being someone's daughter. I want to please him; assert that I'm his blood; and so, I'll continue getting stronger and expanding the telekinesis I developed with his power gifted to me all those centuries ago. It's my ode to him!

"From what we did on the battle field, there's no doubt we can kick ass" I raised my cup in salute to it. She gave me a side glance. For once it wasn't a dirty look, a condescending look or an eye roll; just an ordinary glance before staring back into the fire.

Bringing my hand down, I just fumbled with my cup a little awkwardly. We both continued in the silence for a few seconds longer when I came back into the reality of the setting "So… what are you doing up at this hour?" I pondered.

Could she not clear her head either, with all that's going on?

"I could ask you the same thing" she countered.

Insomnia, I guess?

"Well I just had a lot on my mind so it gave me a little insomnia. I decided to have a tea to help me get to sleep…" I explained my excuse for sitting out here alone in the dark.

"Well it won't be much sleep considering it's almost dawn. I decided to come down for an early breakfast for myself. There's much preparing to be done for our guest's arrivals, and this morning I'll be cancelling a few of my appointments made in Italy" She informed.

"Oh my gosh, dawn?" Dang I must have been down here longer than I thought. I didn't get a wink of sleep. That's probably gonna come back to haunt me later…

"Indeed" Well isn't she just the early bird? I bet she was really looking forward to being at that fashion show in Milan, until plans made a complete 180 yesterday.

Thinking back, that reminds me. Things seem to be going really well between us right now, maybe this is a chance to connect more. Girl talk?

I wanted to console with her about the antagonizing ways our mothers might have lived with being with our father; AT THE SAME TIME…

But since I still didn't know a whole lot about that, I might just have to wait until more memories return. She would be very reluctant to explain things to me but how long can this carry on? They've both passed and it's been centuries. Maybe I should work my way up with lighter subjects

"Hey by the way, since I last saw you yesterday morning, I was left wondering. Who exactly is that guy Filip?" I sensed she stiffened at my mentioning him.

Ooh, hot guys, now we're talking. I got a little inspired.

"Do you two have some kind of flirty thing going? He seemed really into you…" I noted.

She looked more intently into the fire, eyes scattering about it without knowing what to say.

"And seeing him, he's a catch. I have no doubt you'd love to be in those arms" I teased "you should go for it, before another girl snatches that up.."

"Shut up!" All of a sudden the flames of the fireplace were roaring high, shooting flakes and flakes of ash.

My breathing automatically hitched and I sat back stunned by her sudden attitude change. If glares could kill I'd be dead now.

"Always so nosey… Don't go making ignorant assumptions" she seethed before burning out the fireplace and candles to let the room fill with black again.

She stormed off and I was just left there dumbfounded.

I am so confused! What did I say that offended her so much? Was it that guy? Is there some kind of bad blood between them? I just presumed it was a romance at the office type of affair or playing hard to get thing; not something she would explode over.

Well that fiasco's not gonna win me any points in the sisterly bonding department; but jeez, little miss spitfire can't blame me for not knowing, she completely over reacted…

This can only mean one thing… ex-boyfriend drama?

~(Start playing Reflection by Adam Hurst. His melodies are so beautiful and fitting to the scene3)

"That's quite a sensitive topic for her" looking up to the new voice, my father's form stood in the dark doorway through which Megara just stormed out of. Another early bird no doubt; he is the one organizing everything.

He stood in his more informal lounge wear and night robe, entering to join me where I sat.

His reference to Megara's tantrum made me remember the comment he had made to Filip yesterday morning. That Filip was like a son to him. If he was such a sensitive topic to Megara, exactly how serious were those two?

"Well Megara's probably the family member I know the least about" not only was I still prominently memory-less but it's not like she's opened up about her rebirth either "She must have been hurt. Did things end that badly?"

Megara would probably call me intrusive but there's no way I'm gonna get it out of her. I want to try to understand…

"Oh badly, yes; but hurt? I'm doubtful, considering she was the one who wanted a divorce.."

Woah! Oh my gosh, Megara and Filip were married?

And here I thought Tatianna was the only one to tie the knot. Megara just doesn't seem like that type of girl but…

Wait a second. Filip?

I knew that name...

My father noticed my puzzled look "I'd have thought you would recognize him somehow considering they were first wed in our past lifetime"

Back on the first night of my recollection, one of the flashbacks had mentioned Megara marrying during the time I was spoken for by Kris. It was mentioned when I overheard my cousin's talking.

All of a sudden I got a quiver and out of nowhere images came flooding into my head. Images and sounds…

A church…

A more, old world kremlin…

I was in an audience looking towards the two figures forward, absorbed in nothing else going on but each other. Hands delicately linked, I could see the silhouette of a ring slid onto the bride's finger.

"я делаю"…

"Megara's wedding…" I voiced softly. My father cocked his head to me…

Shaking out of my stupor, I faced him again. That was the first memory I've gotten back since the first night. Dang this process is long!

"…I uh, I got a brief flashback to their wedding.."

"Yes, I was quite proud that day" sitting beside me, he reflected these events.

"It wouldn't be too long later that all the tragedies came to be. Filip was one of the very first vampire's I turned. Widower; even so, he was family." Megara had been the first to reappear. It wouldn't be till a little over a century later that they get to meet again so, how did things go from there?

It's kind of like my situation with Kristof. Maybe… "After she rejoined the family, did she no longer want to be with him?" It's not entirely like when you become a vampire and everything is amplified. Once your memories are gone and you've lived a new life as a new person, it seems unlikely you'll see that person the exact same way you did before.

"Oh contrary, with very few memories, she fell for him once again all the same" Seriously?

Call me cheesy, to fall once again just like that, that sounds so romantic.

It sounds like true love meant to be…

But that makes no sense now considering their divorced...

"Let's just say the privileges of immortality may bring about 'irreconcilable differences.' He wanted to make things work but your sister can be quite persistent on her own needs. Therefore they divorced almost two hundred years ago" Wow, such a long time ago but the old wounds still run deep. There's gotta be more to it if Megara is still so touchy about the subject even though she left him.

"Wow, you made it sound like such a romantic fairytale but without the happily ever after" that's kind of a depressing concept; to think after the big kiss, and the reader closes the book, the couple doesn't stay true to their supposed eternal love…

"Well my dear, eternal commitments take much valor and self-sacrifice, they're not for everyone but I'm not saying their impossible either" he brought his hand to lift my chin up to him.

What do I think? I think there is truth to a happily ever after, even to those who can live for eternity. There's gotta be I mean, then whom do you have to share it with?

"I think everyone has someone out there who's meant for them. It just comes down to the search. There are differences between the wonderful person you settle for and who you're destined to be with. The road won't be easy though…" I hope he doesn't think I'm quoting The Notebook in some mixed way. Actually I doubt he's ever seen it; but anyway, it's what I honestly feel. I don't care how corny it sounds. Maybe I'm a hopeless romantic?

"I think if it's meant to be between those two, they'll find their way back to each other"

He chuckled to himself.

At least I know one thing, I've got forever to find the person I'm destined for…

Maybe Megara is destined for someone else…

"What a lovely perspective…" he mused. It was comforting to know that my fantasies weren't thought silly. Hey, you've got Tatianna and Eric for exhibit A.

With all this talk of romance, it brought me back to the idea that unlike my cousins, each of us were half-sister's. I'm talking to a man who was involved with four women…With the mentions that Megara has given me, she claimed my mother was a mistress?

Was that really her title? We are talking about medieval times, although it was also said they eventually married. And where does that leave room for the two women that came after my mother?

"I take it you couldn't sleep very well…" he noted for finding my lounging about in the dark down here.

"Yeah uh, just got a lot on my mind" my tea had gone cold by this point, so I just set it aside. I then took note of my father turning to fully face me.

"Could this have anything to do with your unsettled demeanor at dinner? Or the soon arrival of our guests" My mouth gaped open and closed a bit for trying to find the right words. I can't exactly tell my father what has me so shaky about seeing the Originals, specifically Klaus. I doubt that department of a girl's life is something either a father or a daughter like to dive into.

"Natalia, with the events of yesterday I presumed it would be our most secure path to let the originals in on our discrete existence for I recalled you mentioned being acquainted with them in the past. Your notion sounded peaceful" he explained "I meant to speak with you over this last night; after seeing your on edge demeanor with Kol Mikaelson's presence yesterday; you must tell me, was this a mistake? Should we be cautioned over their presence?"

He took my knowing them as an ok sign for the plan?

"No, of course not dad, I'm on good terms with their family" technically we were friends "it's just Kol himself. He…" Jeez, it's a long ass story. Maybe I should just come out with it?

It really does sound completely ridiculous but hey it's not like our family history isn't…

I sat up straight, looking at him with my more informative expression

" .Although, . " I had tried keeping it as short, sweet and to the point but considering he was looking at me with the most confused look, I'd say I mumbled a giant rant.

"A-alright…" The strange look he gave me; oh me and my big mouth.

I sighed. Well, it was worth a try. I guess I should just keep it simple.

"Ok never mind, the point is, I am well acquainted with the Originals, it's just Kol that's known for trouble. He can be sneaky and unpredictable" His family can barely handle him, I don't know exactly why he was resurrected but we'll have to be weary of what trouble he could be cooking.

"Oh princess, I assure you. I'm taking precautions to keep our ducts in line for a smooth 'visit'" he patted my knee reassuringly. I couldn't help sending a curious gaze his way. I may not remember everything about who my father was but I've got a clear feel for his personality. He's got some kind of safe guards planned.

"And while we're on the subject, starting this morning I request your take your juice or coffee with a lacing of vervain. Do be careful not to burn yourself, my sweet" I cocked my head.

I haven't had to take vervain in years; not since I was last in Mystic falls. Just as I thought, he's taking precautions. We've seen other Purebloods can't compel me but since I'm part of an Original's bloodline, we don't know how I'd respond to compulsion from one of them.

I shook my head "Dad, that won't be necessary" he narrowed his gaze at me "Yes, the originals are known to be dangerous to be involved with but I trust them. They're not all bad, if we just go with the plan to explain to them how we exist I'm positive all of us can be friends" I sent him a positive look as she studied me over.

Yes, I trust Klaus and he's told me himself he would never hurt me, so he doesn't need to be concerned with my new family either. None of this needs to turn violent, all I have to do is introduce them properly and we can get all the suspense out of the way. We actually have a lot in common.

"You seem so sure. You say you trust them…" he mused, to which I nodded.

"There's nothing to wor…" he then placed his hand over mine. I looked back up at him questioningly.

"Princess, they've been known to turn against their own allies in the past. I will not be lured into a false sense of security therefore I still request you take this minor safety measure, for me…"

"Father…" I sighed.

"And we're not unveiling everything" I paused to that statement "Natalia you are not to mention anything over our weakness to garlic, nor our bloods capabilities to other supernatural beings"

It's not like I go around sharing blood with anyone, jeez. I gave an eye roll and chuckle…

"Oh my goodness, Klaus would laugh at the irony that we're how that garlic myth was started" I mean over the centuries it seems our two species got confused.

I had tried taking the conversation to lighter note but soon noticed my dad was still looking very intently back at me

"You addressed him so comfortably…" I furrowed my brow at this.

"Huh?"

He leaned forward calculatingly; I wasn't really sure what he was getting at "You are of Niklaus Mikaelson's bloodline, correct? How did the conditions of your relationship with the headman of your bloodline run?" I could feel my stomach drop at that question.

Oh my gosh, is he asking me how involved I was with Klaus?

We didn't have a relationship!

I think…

Er- uh? What do I say?

What do I tell him?

You trained your poker face Caroline! Don't lose it, you're an actress for a reason!

Don't let him see you turn red! I can't tell my father that I've slept with him. I know he understands that modern days are different from our old world customs but still; sex life is not something you talk about with your dad! It gets awkward, uncomfortable and you can never look at each other the same way again.

"Father" I used my composed smile "he, they, were just friends of mine. That's it." It's true, it's uh, it's not like he was ever my boyfriend…

So I'm not lying to him.

My declaration did sound convincing, although I'm still worried considering he might have noted the initial pause in answering him. But its 100% true, Klaus and I have moved on by now. The last time we saw each other was a one-time thing… no matter how good it was. ER! Bad thoughts, stop it Caroline!

After a few seconds more of exchanged looks, he began nodding "Good, it calms me to hear that"

What's that supposed to mean?

He took note of my questioning gaze for his comment "a relationship such as that with one of them would, make things worrisome… Let's just say its best for everyone if our families' relations remained purely diplomatic"

He's concerned we'll get hurt? I highly doubt anything like that's gonna happen but this is kinda being unreasonably paranoid

"Dad…"

"We're telling all of you this; don't think we didn't take note of your cousins' flirtations. When they arrive, for the time being, simply keep things amiable, platonic, courteous but not personal"

So this is what it's like to have a protective father…

"Alright" I'll give him reassurance now but I still stand by what I said earlier. Nothing is going to go on and there is nothing to be threatened about.

The room was beginning to look much lighter than it was earlier.

Through the large windows, you could see the dark shades clearing up. Sun rise must be just around the corner.

I'm not sure when they'd arrive but my guess is it'd be sometime later today.

I'm definitely nervous because I don't know how I'll react when I see Klaus after the last time we were together; but… I guess I can't deny that a small part of me will be happy to see him again.

We were friends after all.

And I've actually learned a lot of things about life from him. In a way, all those years ago he somewhat inspired me to set off on a journey to enjoy what the world has to offer.

That charisma that built inside me not only led me to drama, it led me to travel, it led me to my family…

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~Madrid, Spain

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Argh, I'm getting light headed again. I'm easily short of breath and have to slow pace every few hundred meters.

I came to a stop and hunched over. I need to control my breathing so I really shouldn't be facing the ground. This is ridiculous; I had more energy playing futbol over soggy grass than now a days.

I just wanted some air, to relieve some frustration.

I placed my hands on top of my head and continued the rest of the way walking.

It's a good thing there was a cool breeze blowing to help me cool down.

Earlier today, I was so pissed off with Mercedes I just needed to get out of there. We were staying in Mercedes' Penthouse apartment; unfortunately, work has made it my new home. I don't hate Madrid, in fact I love it here. It's just the circumstances I'm here for that spoil all it has to offer.

I made my way out of the park back onto the busy streets fluttering with people.

Is it just me or am I the only one who's here alone? Naturally Madrid has flusters of tourists, students from here or abroad, families taking a stroll, friends out shopping or enjoying the sights. This is something I haven't been privileged with. It's just me and Mercedes here, and quite frankly I can't stand her anymore.

Up ahead I noticed a cute stand selling flavored waters along the busy sidewalks.

I desperately need to get my blood sugar up, I don't care what's in it.

Mercedes is my manager, and ever since she's been trying to build up my projects and contracts with bigger companies she's been chewing me out for everything I eat and I'm sick of it, literally!

After buying my extra large cup of guava and lime juice I chugged it like there was no tomorrow.

All of a sudden I felt my pocket buzz. Fishing it out of my pocket to look at the caller Id; good lord, how does she do that? It's like she always knows!

With a groan, I answered only to avoid an earful of nagging later.

"Que?" I tried not to snap (What?)

"No me contestes de esa manera" she lectured "¿A dónde estás?" (Don't use that tone with me. Where are you?)

I rolled my eyes "Salí" I wasn't doing very well to hide the hostility in my tone, not that I was really trying… (I went out)

I could hear her scoff at my vague response. Hey, she knows why I'm mad and I have every right to be.

"No voy a andar batallando con tus berrinches. Sabes muy bien que tenemos que estar presente. Ahora regrésate a casa y me ves en el brasserie. (I'm not going to put up with your tantrums. You know very well why we have to be present. Now come home and meet me down at the brasserie)

I just ended the call without a word. I could feel myself huffing at how she orders me.

One quality I've had since being a child is I get pouty when I don't have my way, and I usually dragged it out with fits and sour looks until either I or somebody else exploded.

Truth be told, right now I was more upset and disappointed than mad.

Leaning against a nearby wall to compose myself, I just watched the people making their way by, enjoying the day.

I tried to shake things off by finishing my juice, which had helped immensely in restoring my energy and stopping the pounding in my head.

Reluctantly, I decided I'd best go making my way back. But I will take my sweet time about it!

Strolling along the street, I remembered how I'm in the city where my beginning was rooted. I used to be one of these girls, strolling around with her friends, enjoying our exploring, the shops, the music, the food. It was on a road trip over two years ago that my friend's older sister had taken us from up in northern Spain to the capital for a weekend getaway. I was still in high school. She was working for an advertising agency and we were told a local potato chips commercial starring a Soap opera star was in need of extras. We thought it'd be fun, yet I had no idea the camera would be drawn so much to my group. That was where I was scouted.

Previously I had no desire to ever enter this sort of business but once Mercedes approached my father about this possibili ty, they felt it would be a wonderful opportunity for me. My friends felt so too, as well as my Madrina. (God mother)

Not to mention my father was struggling to support my little brother and I. My mother had passed away upon giving birth to him, and we had decided to move to Spain to be closer to her side of the family.

The small assignments Mercedes aligned for me helped bring in a few extra Euro's to the table. I took up providing the groceries to relieve my father of this concern so he could focus on our other utilities and expenses. I was even able to enjoy more privileges with my friends or take my little brother out to fun places. Our living was very average and modest.

To those who believe live the high life, that is a very great misconception. That lifestyle applies to very few models in this industry. Not everyone is on the Vogue, or Victorias Secret luxury, living like Tyra Banks or Adriana Lima. A majority of models simply earn average job wages. Honestly, I'm still a nobody and it didn't bother me at all; it's only more recently that I'm having more prominent appearances. Now all of a sudden, Mercedes has got me starting onto runway work?

I don't know how I'm going to do this; I can't possibly imagine myself strutting about like in that show we saw in Paris. I felt ridiculous practicing!

This all started out so mediocre. And now that things are rising in scale it just feels so…empty.

It just hasn't been the same since I recently finished my last year of high school with private tutors; since my friends started college and I didn't; since my Madrina grew frailer; since I had to move out here…..since that car crash…

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(Italic~ speaking in Spanish)

"…our flight leaves in another two hours. We're all set to go to the airport. The flight will be very short, then…"

As she looked over her phones day planner, she hadn't noticed I slipped on my headphones to drown her out. I was listening to my Icona Pop playlist, while sipping on my ice water. We had already been served our dishes, which by the way she ordered for me. I ate half but didn't pay it much mind as I leaned back onto the two back legs of my chair, the stone wall beside our table doing well to support me from falling.

The atmosphere around the room was very classy, with its laid back atmosphere and people talking amongst themselves over lunch. I know Mercedes particularly liked this style of restaurant, breweries were often how she spent the nights out with her own associates and friends. At least one of us has an enjoyable social life. I've met many other socialites, debs, or gentlemen etc. but those were all only acquaintances. My friends are currently entering their University career studies but were supposedly all going to be back home tomorrow. I haven't seen them since the accident; since I thought I desperately needed my time alone. You'd think all the new work I've been doing would keep me distracted and financially supported, but ever since it's seemed like all that has only made things worse…

All of a sudden I felt a sharp pull at my ear " I turned a the snap of my headphones for they were yanked off.

"Que grosera eres" she scolded me. (how rude) I just turned away from her; I tend to play the naïve card for a lot of things.

I may not be looking directly at her but I can tell she was shaking her head at my behavior.

"You keep going on about your 18th birthday yet your fits are like those of a child" she noted.

I looked back at her very expressionless, and used my straw to fumble around absentmindedly with the ice.

I had to bite my tongue on that comment. I didn't want to speak with her right now but at the same time I was well within my boundaries to be upset.

I've been 18 for almost a month now, but I haven't had a chance to celebrate it. What with the new stuff in Paris arranged, but as soon as I got back to Spain I was supposed to go home. My madrina had planned out a birthday dinner for our friends and close neighbors.

I didn't realize how homesick I was until Mercedes conveniently forgot and RSVPed us to attend a social event in Monte Carlo, before flying off to Morocco for a new project.

All this time I desperately needed to leave in order to get my mind off of any painful memories but now I just want it all back. I'm ready to face reality head on and move forward but I can't do that without the people I care about, without the people who loved me from the start. I missed them…

"You better adjust your attitude by this evening" she turned back to her phone "this is your part of your career, you have responsibilities" It's a party for damn rich people to brag about themselves. How is that part of the job?

"I'm not going" I finally faced her again. This is me getting my priorities straight; I want to go home "to Monte Carlo or Morocco"

She immediately dropped her phone to give me a hard stare, arching her brow "Do you realize the opportunity cost that would give up? I suppose you plan on staying in debt with the recent funeral expenses made?"

I could feel a dry lump form in the back of my throat, clenching my wrist tightly around my phone.

This is so unfair!

If anything, one of the main things that kept me going in this business is I have a lot of debt to cover. Several expenses for my myself, my family, even a fund if I do decide one day to go back to school. So right now, this was all I had and Mercedes did well to remind me of that.

"You've been shooting me daggers day but what you don't realize is I do only what is in best interest." She mused, taking a sip of her drink.

I took a frustrated bite from my food, despite that it wasn't much. I just needed something to munch on to calm my nerves.

"You're such an unhappy girl, Ximena. What girl wouldn't want to live the life you're living now?" she declared, before answering an incoming call on her cell.

Oh, the life of a small time model, associated with jerks, and two faced social climbers who kiss up to one another for their own interest to get rich and famous. A girl who now has little to no family left, never sees her friends, no college education and constantly judged by her appearance.

Pshh, oh yea, this is the good life.

I could hear Mercedes going on in French, she must be talking to some of the other invitees looking forward to meeting us tonight.

Alright, I definitely need something more than this crap to munch on. I guess this morning's work out didn't boost up many endorphins so I need some happy food.

I tried reaching across the table to get some of the complimentary tortilla española that the server had left us with. I managed to pick off a piece for myself and oh that was delicious!

What I wouldn't give to just be able to eat anything I want like before. How I used to love waking up in the morning to enjoy a hot chocolate and sweet bread.

Maybe I can grab the whole slice now; reaching for the whole piece, my hand was instantly met with a slap to drop the tortilla. Argh, so close!

Mercedes sent me a warning look "that is far too fattening" she snidely remarked.

Oh for heaven's sake! Everything has fat in it! Says the woman enjoying paella and a sangria! I have to live this way and she doesn't? What a hypocrite!

As she turned back to her conversation, I took the opportunity this time to slip some hot table spices onto her food. She wouldn't notice it mixed in. Then when she turns for a sip she'll face a new surprise. She gave another glance to make sure I wasn't eating anything I wasn't supposed to. I then slipped some sauces, vinegars and salts into the drink.

Another thing about me, I do tend to lash out. You can call my doing this childish but the aggressiveness always varies. I've been pushed enough today and I know that I can turn into a brat.

I causally took another bite of my rabbit food, as I like to call it, as she turned back to face me. I just acted as if nothing out of the ordinary, properly enjoying my food like a good girl.

She seemed to be studying me over.

Oh no, did she see what I did?

After avoiding her eyes, I stopped mid bite from my fork to look back at her in a confused manner. What is she doing?

All of a sudden she pushed the entire plate of tortillas Española's in front me then called the server to order me a soda.

What is this?

I gave her a puzzled look "You're joking.." what is she up to?

"This is just for this one meal" she smiled reassuringly " I just got off with Miranda, she is Lisette's, a girl working alongside you in Morocco, manager. We were discussing the forms of the project and recalled some of your previous photo history"

Ok, what does pre-work preparation have to do with my eating?

"The style for this shoot is exotic desert sirens appeal. There have been some past instances where you somewhat appear with, well, scrawny legs." Say what?

"And so I'm letting you go all out for this one meal to hopefully give you little more of a filled curves look for this projects sake"

I could feel myself boiling up to a point of explosion. So now I have chicken legs… This is what I meant about two faced people! They go on and on about appearances, telling of how you rate high in beauty standards, then behind closed doors criticize how there is always something wrong with you!

" I could tell how much you were dieing to eat those so go on, enjoy" she smiled so foolishly, turning back to her own meal.

I looked down at the tortillas Española's I was so craving. All of a sudden I was repulsed by them.

"Oh goodness…" she coughed out, dropping her fork.

Just the thought of eating them now made me furious. That would be me abiding from by some kind of standard on what others claim is the proper way for a girl to look. One minute my hips are too wide, the next I'm too scrawny, or I'm too pale or my hairstyle is out of date. Is my life always going to be like this!?

"What did they put in this!? It's suddenly so spicy!"

I mean who gave these people the authority to decide what is considered the proper look for a girl? And why am I a part of it!?

I shoved the plate aside, knocking things off the table and got to my feet. Mercedes made a rapid grab for her drink, to wash down the taste in her mouth.

People had turned at the commotion

I stormed out of the brasserie leaving a steaming trail out the door, when I managed to hear Mercedes spit out in disgust the contents swallowed from her drink.

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I released a large sigh and groan from all the pent up frustration I had bottled up since I woke up this morning. Stopping to cool down from storming out of the brasserie, I just leaned back against the stone wall on the side of the restaurant. The air felt refreshing blowing against my hair

There's just always going to be something wrong with me isn't there? Just because I'm blond, Mercedes and others think they can just dress me up as they please like Malibu Barbie? Come to think of it, I never even liked dolls very much. I'm as much a girly girl as anyone else but constantly being judged on people's perception of what I should be like was a drag. People always going on about my appearance; why should I have to strive to live up to others expectations? I'm sick of trying to climb this business! If I could only…

My eyes sank to my feet, shoving my hands into the pockets of my denim blazer.

How did things fall so far?

To others they may not seem like it but to me they have.

My madrina always told me when you lose something, it's because life has something even better heading your way…

Well, where's the better?

Recognition from insincere strangers?

I just scoffed, bringing my phone out of my pocket. If I wasn't swamped in debt right now, there is no way I would have continued this for so long. I'm stuck, which means as much as I hate this, I have to make the call.

After a few rings I finally got an answer from the other line.

"Hello?" she answered.

"Hi, madrina, it's me" I could feel myself brighten up at hearing her voice. She was my mother's best friend growing up, and was always like a second mother to me.

"Hi, sweet heart! How are you doing? Are you already back in Spain?" She beamed excitingly. I can't believe I have to spoil that.

I bit my lip gloomily "uh yes. I just got back to Madrid. I'm exhausted, you will not believe what I've been through these past few weeks" I sighed, brushing the side of my shoe along the stone wall.

"Oh dear, are you doing ok? Have you been eating? I swear, I was never too fond of Mercedes. She holds a lot of self-interest investing in your work." Yeah, I laughed out in agreement.

To make it higher in this field, you got to be sleazy.

Honestly, I'm not fine. I'm tired, I'm hungry… I'm offended. Though, I didn't want her to worry with anymore because of what I have to tell her.

"I'm doing just fine, just very busy is all. Did you get the money I wired?"

My madrina was a widowed empty nester. Her sons were off trying to start their careers in Barcelona, and apart from having her keep track of a lot of my family's expenses I cover, I like to send her a little something so she can enjoy herself more and stress less with her own work.

"Yes sweety, I'll be sure to send in the checks. All you have to do is drive back home and enjoy your entire birthday weekend. I'm making all your favorite dishes, everyone's excited to see you back…" Oh my gosh, that sounds so amazing; it's security like that that keeps me going…

"Madrina" I couldn't let her finish, this situation was just such a letdown "I can't make it home tomorrow" I squeaked out; my tone evidently showing my discontent.

"What?" the shuffling around on her end had silenced, so she must have dropped what she was working on.

"I was invited by members of the new agency I'm contracted with to attend this gathering in Monte Carlo before my next assignment in Morocco" I explained apologetically. "Mercedes wants me to get better acquainted with them"

"But what about your birthday? She know's we've been planning this" I ran my hands through my hair, trying to find some loop hole to this only to come up empty.

"I know, I wanted to be home so badly" I whined. We both know how she likes taking every opportunity to publicize to an advantage. Apparently, even lack of presence can also start gossip. Jeez, why the hell do people care so much about details that are none of their business?

"I miss you" I sighed. I miss my friends, my old house, the neighborhood kids, the beach, the market place, the town…

I've worked my way up but at what costs?

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CPOV

"Good morning" I looked up to see the vampire that accompanied Kol here walk into the dining room.

He introduced him as Marcel, that he was his brother-in law?

So this guy is with Rebekah I take it…

I will say he's tall, dark and handsome; although, with how much I knew Rebekah's troubled love life was always mocked, it is a little unexpected to hear she's settled down with someone.

I guess when you know, you know?

"Good day, Marcellus" we all greeted, my father overall "I hope the accommodations were to your liking" he motioned one of the seats near him.

"Everything is fantastic, although I do have some news to inform you of" he noted, pulling out the chair to seat himself "Kol's taken a brief leave. He's got a few matters to attend to but don't worry, he'll back very soon, though I'm sure his siblings will arrive just before he returns. You've been very hospitable to welcome us here and we hope you don't take offense to this short absence"

He sure knows how to smooth talk…

Strange though, matters? Where has that guy run off to? It gives me an uneasy feeling…

"Why of course not, we all have our duties" father motioned for some of the servants to serve breakfast from the dishes onto Marcel's plate. "We graciously await the rest of your family and please do make yourself at home in the meantime" my father motioned.

"You're very kind" he flashed his sparkling white smile before digging in.

I tried not to make it too obvious I was studying him while absentmindedly chewing on my bacon. He explained to us last night how Klaus practically raised him until he was finally turned.

I can't imagine Klaus as a father figure. Don't get me wrong, the picture of Klaus taking care of a child is very cute but the image just seems foreign to who he was, to how I once saw him. I did discover he had a caring, sensitive goodness to him deep inside the cold exterior, and it's admirable to see another proof to that…

He has serious issues, but I hope that from time to time he's been better able to see that there's still a human lightness to him underneath the big bad original hybrid…

Crap, he caught me looking. Shifting my gaze awkwardly away, man, could I be any more obvious?

I couldn't help but glance back, just to act as if I had been casually looking around to each person.

Locking eyes this time, he flashed me a smile.

Mustering a half grin, I averted myself back to my food. It was currently all of us present at the table, my sisters, cousins and uncles. I guess we would all have clear schedules for this arrival

"So Caroline" Marcel's velvety voice called "or is it Natalia now?" hesitating.

"It's still Caroline" I reassured. Everyone here may say Natalia but I'll still introduce myself as Caroline. I casually made conversation while sipping my orange juice.

"I'm sure they'll be glad to hear that, makes it less confusing." He chuckled "So how do you feel about seeing Klaus again" he arched his brow with a grin.

I then felt myself choke mid gulp with my juice, wiping the drop that slip down my chin with a napkin.

At the sound of that notion he made, everyone turned to look at me in narrowed curiosity.

Why'd he say it like that? The way he emphasized Klaus out of all the originals.

What exactly does this guy know?

Oh my gosh, looking at my dad he's staring back at me the most intently.

Crap, he had already assumed something about Klaus early this morning.

MPOV

I just had to ask. From what Kol and Rebekah mentioned about this girl, if this little bombshell was really able to knock Klaus off his feet then she's definitely gotta be a piece of work.

I heard she technically rejected him but he still gave up revenge, saved lives and set her free. I can understand him falling for a vampire duchess but didn't she start out as a prissy teenage cheerleader? How perplexing…

Looking around, I had noticed it got quiet while everyone tuned into my question. Did I step on a land mine or something? I thought everyone here knew that she had history with Klaus and the others…

"Yeah, it'll be nice to catch up with everyone" she brushed it off.

All of a sudden the ham and bacon dish fidgeted before launching into the air and splattering far out into the court yard completely on its own. Or I should say by her telekinesis.

Cocking my head, she continued to eat ignoring the attention drawn to her as if nothing.

Oh I get it. I guess her family's not gonna know she rendezvoused with an original hybrid once.

I went back to eating, trying not to let my smirk fall through. My bad, I guess I made things very suspicious to them.

CPOV

Darn it! This power ruins my poker face!

I tried to make myself appear as normal as possible but that one line had already created assumptions in everyone's head I'm sure of it, not to mention the subtlety of launching the large ham tray over the twin's heads on outside!

"My bad, it still acts out" I defended.

Looking around to each of each person, I can tell off the bat that Megara, Stasya and the twins know. And no doubt everyone else here has their suspicions, well minus Lily. After the brief silence, everyone carried on with their meal.

This isn't about a shameless act, we all know that everyone has those types of experiences, we're not nuns, but what's concerning is my father and uncles think we need to be cautious about the Originals; and if they now think I have some deep history with Klaus, that could be a weakness.

I noticed my father had continued with his meal, but he still glanced my way.

I told him we were friends. No doubt he now thinks I lied to him and that we were dating or worse, that we were just friends with benefits.

This reminds me how last time it took forever for people to shut up about this!

"Caroline, your still taking me to your voice trainings right?" Thank you Lily, the tension was backing up on me.

MPOV

"Of course, we'll head out soon" Caroline smiled to the little rascal vampire she knows as her little sister.

Kol and I were stunned to meet another child vampire. She's got a lot of the same innocent qualities Madeline has. Of course, unlike Madeline this girl wasn't born vampire, I guess there is a way to transform a child. This girl was also physically older as well, I guess 12? Where as Madeline will go aging very slowly over the centuries.

It's be cute to see these two meet, but it's never gonna happen. There's no way we'd tell these people or many others about our little darling of the family.

I texted Klaus just a little earlier, they were now on a flight so I'd estimate they'll arrive about later tonight. Madeline had been left back in New Orleans with her mother while it was watched over by Klaus' pack.

I don't know how things are gonna go down here.

I'd say at least one of us will be heading back to our base in New Orleans in short time, but that's if things run VERY smoothly, which I doubt will happen. They're in for one heck of a show here in Moscow. The only reason I felt secure staying here while Kol took off to add oil to this fire was because Davina and the other witches have a protection spell around me. Not to mention, killing me would automatically fire war. As for compulsion, well I've been well trained to recognize when something's off so I'm pretty sure I'm in the clear. Too bad vervain doesn't give me any reassurance here.

Klaus is going to be blown away by everything that's going on here. They've got a kingdom much like ours here but with 600 years in the making. His political history actually allowed him to expand it beyond Moscow, and as his species has kept track of their own kind.

This is gonna be one heck of a show down, especially since Kol's already out there aiming for a sneak attack….

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Caroline POV

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I was on my way to my room to grab my purse and song books before Lily and I head out. I needed to get out and distract myself from all this. It's going to be a long day, especially come night fall.

I'm already insecure about a something with my father, and now this comes up?

Speaking of concerns….

Rounding the corner, I faced the long hallway leading to one of the lounge areas and heard screams in the distance.

I heard painful cries, wails and shrieks.

My strides grew faster the more hurt the sounds became. I dashed into a vamp speed to come into the parlor and was faced with a gruesome sight.

Stasya and two unnamed strigoi were feeding off of 2 young women, not even compelled. They listened to the piano music playing over the sound system, with Stasya and a very tall and handsome vamp biting into a girls arm and neck. The other male vampire was holding a girl back against him and she cried and thrashed around. I was at a complete loss of what to do.

It was only seconds before they hung limp and lifeless in their arms, letting the bodies drop to the floor like rag dolls in a pile.

There will still crying going throughout the room, a young girl was curled up in hysterics as she saw the others killed.

They must have compelled her to not run.

"Well hello, cousin. Join us for a drink?" Stasya smirked as she leaned next to her arm candy.

Stasya had many aristocrat companions. All her friends were on the elitist mind set circle of vampire's though, and from the few I've met, they can be very insensitive and full of themselves.

"These are my friends, Darren and Octavius" she introduced.

They each stood to give slight bow "it's a pleasure to meet you, princess Natalia"

"What are you guys doing?" I exclaimed. The cries could be heard all the way down the hall "this isn't exactly subtle and we're not supposed to even be feeding here in the capital!" I burst.

I knew father had made an exception a few weeks back during that toast but I've seen our treaty with the humans and part of the deal does imply there is to be NO KILLING here in the Kremlin!

Over the past few weeks I have run into a little less than a hand full of dead bodies. The pressure to tell my father over my discomfort with this grew every day. Theodora and Lenora might have caused the other two and now this with Stasya. If my father and uncle's killed anyone, it was very discretely done behind closed doors. Who knows…

"Well I guess my canceled trip did put me in a bit of a sour mood" I scoffed, unbelievable "in a way I have you and your sister to thank for that"

Us? "How is it mine and Megara's fault the originals found some members of our clan?" The timing was unbelievable considering I'm still newly back here but it's not like anyone could have predicted they would track us.

"Oh not you and Megara. You and the OTHER sister, Dimitra" she declared, with a snotty smirk.

That still makes no sense. I rolled my eyes at her.

"Her wrong place at the wrong time run in forced her guardian to reveal himself and your connection to the originals supported the idea to bring them to Moscow. I must say, the two of you always did have a nack for stirring up trouble" I just crossed my arms at her comment.

None of those things make anyone of us to blame.

I didn't really remember much about my first younger sister. There are a few brief memories with her but that's about it. She seems like a nice girl, she's cute, and I could tell we got along well. I'm still surprised over the idea that she's been found too. That makes her the last member left to completely reunite our family but now that I think about it… she's human. She's got her own life and a nice one by the sound of it. I don't know what's gonna happen but they can't just whisk her away from her old life just like that, right?

I've known that Megara and the twins came on their own will but Lily, Tatianna and even Stasya herself didn't come in with open arms. Strange how they eventually accepted; even me, I'm a vampire with no family left that chose to stay once I got my memories back. It was made easy for me, but Dimitra is still human. She doensn't know anything about the supernatural world, and she has her whole life before her so… what is my father planning on doing for that? Becoming a vampire doesn't just fall into place easily, who would choose to leave everything behind. The more I thought this over the more concerned I became with what Dimitra will soon face but I was shaken out of my stupor when I heard the shrill cries come again as Darren closed in on the girl scrambling to back away on the ground.

"No, no leave me alone!" She screamed as Darren lifted her by her upper arm to her feet, smirking at seeing her so terrified. As his features turned feral I automatically sprung forth without a thought to back him away, releasing her to crumble into a huddled mess "STOP!" I exclaimed before I could stop myself.

"My apologies Lady Natalia, did you desire to drain her yourself" he suggested. I had reacted without thinking.

"There's a polite way to ask, Natalia" Stasya snooted.

I just ignored them and turned to kneel by the girl. She flinched and attempted to back away

"Its ok, its ok" I compelled her "I'm not going to hurt you. You're safe" She calmed down "You're going to forget what you saw here today, go home and carry on with your normal life" she nodded as I helped her stand, holding my arm out I urged her to leave.

"What was that?" she mocked. Honestly the nerve of her…

I turned back to Stasya, getting frustrated with her obnoxious tone to me since I arrived. I don't know who's worse, Megara or her.

"You can't just go around having you and your friends free to killing innocent people in torturous ways just because your plans got canceled. Our feeding is supposed to be LIMITED but the body counts keep going up around here!" I finally burst.

"My, my" she crossed her arms, walking up to me "So righteous. I had no idea you had such an affinity for the human population"

The cats coming out of the bag "Just because we're vampires that need blood to survive, that doesn't make us beasts'" I asserted strongly.

She thought over my words before looking back at me with a curious grin "Darren, Octavius, would you kindly allow me a private talk with my cousin" they smiled and nodded respectfully before making their leave.

She sat herself back down, sending me the same questioning glance s before "does your Original lover know how compassionate you are the measly little lives of mortals, cousin?" she rose her eyebrow.

My jaw practically hit the floor, "Say, no –er, what!?" I screeched "Klaus is not my lover!" I asserted.

"Oh you automatically presumed I meant him" she teased.

I could feel myself going red at this. Today is just not my day is it?

"There's nothing to be ashamed of, in fact I'm impressed. I didn't think you had it in you" she winked devilishly "especially with how oh so dedicated you were to Kristoff; I thought for sure you'd pick up where you left off"

"Shut up" I hissed "I'm not just Natalia now, I'm Caroline and there's so much you don't know about me"

This vampire princess has her morals, her ideals and her cares to stick to.

"Well this would also explain why I saw you and Liliana hunt a rabbit in the fields we have behind the estate" she noted playfully. Yes, I had let Lily in on my little dieting choices.

My eyes fell shut; so she's seen me hunt…

Argh, well no matter how she might mock me, I know I live a descent lifestyle.

"Look…." I attempted to explain when I then heard a throat clear behind us.

I turned to see my father and uncle Feodor standing before us "With all the yelling, the entire floor could hear the commotion" my uncle noted to us "Are you girls getting along…" it wasn't asked in questioning tone, more like a lecturing one.

We both nodded "Just learning a little more about each other" she mused.

I guess that's one way of putting it.

He shook his head "Well then, for now daughter, I'll need you to accompany me to the representatives meeting as we explain how our guests presence will go underway with their stay in Moscow" my uncle motioned for Stasya to accompany him

"Of course, father" they made their leave but not before assigning the help to come dispose of the two lifeless bodies. She sent me one last smirk before leaving.

It was then just my father and I. I'm kind of scattered because I don't know what he could be thinking about me right now. If he did figure it out, I hope he's not disappointed in me for not telling him. I take it my expression showed we needed to address the elephant in the room.

"My dear Natalia" he lifted my chin to look at him sternly "You are my daughter, I know we are still learning about each other but a man in your life is something you must tell me of" I sighed, shaking my head. It's not like that

"No dad, you don't understand" I brought his hand off my face to hold it reassuringly "I meant what I said when I told you Klaus was just my friend. Its just that we…" Well I guess now's the right time to come out with everything once and for all so I can just get this off my chest.

"Ok maybe I did have feelings for him once; he was very good to me but I knew things weren't going to work out between us. We were both just going in very different directions with our lives; so all we left off with was friendship." I explained. If I don't come out with all of it, it'll just come back to haunt me later " And there was this… one-time thing… the last time we met, and uh-, well that's how we parted ways…" It felt so awkward confessing this but I guess as my father said, this is stuff that despite being uncomfortable, is important to be honest with. Especially since its why I'm so sure we shouldn't feel threatened by Klaus.

I do think he'll have his own paranoia with my family species as well, but if I just come clean with it all I'm sure he'd never feel like they're a threat in the supernatural world.

He somewhat cleared his throat, eyes scattering on what to say, clearly he recognizes how uncomfortable the topic is. "I know each of you girls have your love-life matters, its only natural after all. It just comes so unexpected that my own daughter has been with an Original vampire. Quite I ironic really" he shuffled.

Why does he have to word it like that?

"But you must answer me this straight out" he declared adamantly "do you still harbor romantic feelings for this man?"

I sighed at his insistence. I have soft spot for Klaus but "no father. We've both moved on" I stated firmly.

The looks were exchanged through our locked eyes, I knew he believed me.

"It is best that way. To love him would just set yourself up for distress and heartache…" he brushed the locks of my bangs to the side.

That's exactly why I knew Klaus and I weren't meant to be.

Even if there was a point both our feelings were reciprocated, I couldn't put myself in a toxic relationship like Elena did. And he knew setting me free would be the best way to demonstrate how much he cared for me.

I can see what's within him, and it's a good person….

"There's nothing to worry about" I reassured.

We had heard footsteps make their way here.

"Ah, there they are" Kris walked in with Lily at his side.

"Caroline you were taking forever" Lily whined playfully "Come on, let's go, let's go, let's go" she tugged on my hand eagerly.

"Lady Liliana tells me how interested you've made her with drama; the enthusiasm you've created in her is quite admirable" he chuckled.

I couldn't help but smile at the admiration she's grown with learning about my work with theater and opera. It's really so inspiring to know that this girl looks up to me.

She's especially fond of singing, so she's really excited to see me get a role in a musical theater production. She's been helping me practice and started training alongside me. The enthusiasm you see in a child's eyes is so breathtaking; I want to be there for my baby sister as much as possible. Sure, she's technically centuries older than I am now but originally she will always be my LITTLE sister.

"You should hear Caroline sing, Kris. She's gonna be Belle in Beauty and the Beast" she beamed giddily; I giggled at the confidence she had in me.

"I haven't even auditioned for that one yet" I noted. That particular role is the one she's holding out the most for. She loves the tale and the moral of the story.

Me personally it is a very beautiful love story, not to mention growing up I loved the Disney princesses. What do you know, I was one all along.

All that's left is my prince charming…

I couldn't help but glance over to Kris; he flashed me his charming smile.

"I have no doubt you're spectacular" he complimented, before turning to my father "I came as soon as I received word this morning. This turn of events certainly was unexpected"

So the word of our entire clan being introduced to the Orginals is spreading fast. I guess it won't be long before the rest of the supernatural world follows; vampires, witches, werewolves, travelers or whatever else is out there….

"Indeed, I was hoping you'd inform more of the aristocrats. The visit is solely in Moscow but none the less, our activities must remain of the upmost well behavior"

Wow, and I thought I was being flooded with good first impressions when I was introduced to society a few weeks earlier.

"But of course. I also wished to see you for our coven of witches would like to update that any strange activity from either side will be monitored." He ensured.

"Excellent. My daughter did assure me everything will be clean and civilized but reassurance never hurt"

Oh my gosh, my father was even more paranoid than I thought. I hope I was finally able to settle him down with our talk.

"Maybe it's you who needed that Italian vacation, dad" I joked, and Lily burst into giggles.

Is this what running an underground kingdom for 600 years does to a Grand Duke?

He cocked his brow in a very comical way at my statement, even Kris couldn't help but snicker.

"And you too" he was somewhat taken aback by my comment turned on him, "It's always work with you. You both always have political matters to take care of, what do you do for fun?" I teased, adding the the lightening mood.

"Well, it's who Kristoff and I were born to be, my dear. A rulers work is never done" he stated proudly, exchanging firm glances with Kris in agreement.

"And you've only been here little over 2 weeks, Natalia. You've yet to see how royalty indulges themselves" he informed with a pat to my shoulder. With the serious tone we've taken since yesterday, I wonder when that'll come about.

"Indeed, don't think elites don't know good time" Well when the time comes I'll be a judge of that. Parties are my specialty "If fact, how about I show you that I don't simple pass my days with politics and economics…"

What did he mean by that? Now I'm curious as to what he was getting at now.

"There is a splendid bistro in town, not too far from the square. Very pleasant atmosphere, and I'm sure you would like their cuisine or the bakery and bar selections…" Wait, is he asking me to dinner?

My eyes did widen a little, not quite expecting him to ask me out; and not with my little sister and father right in front of us either.

Kris is a really nice guy and over these past few weeks he's been a good friend to talk to whenever we run into each other. He often stays here in the Kremlin but does move around a pattern of cities as he watches over his regions with more of the strigoi population, to which they refer to him as lord.

I can tell my dad really favors him but considering our history I'm not so sure how I feel about this suggestion. Ordinarily I wouldn't mind but this might sound like of like a date…

"Oh, that sounds cool, but I don't think I can today" this is true "After my voice trainings, Lily and I will be out for lunch while I do some job hunting…"

"Job hunting?" both Kris and my father echoed. I nodded.

Tis the life of an actress starting over in a new country. I actually made a very decent wage with my previous work on Broadway but now that I'm starting over "I need to get money from somewhere to fund my extracurricular activities and living"

My father gave me a strange look "Not only are you a princess, you're a vampire. You can have anything your heart desires without lifting a finger"

I know, and as awesome and convenient as that is sometimes I can't let myself lose my work ethic. I've always been an action person, more hands on, I get things done completely on my own. I don't rely on other people too much, even if I'm cheer captain or Moscow Princess, I take things into my own hands. I always accomplish what I set my mind on.

"I can't just live like that, father. I play the game of life as close to the rule book as I can" I'm not going to compel myself everything.

They both stared at me so awestruck, while Lily looked in fascination over my sense of morality.

"Fascinating, Natalia. You never cease to amaze me" he looked back at me so calculatingly. I guess I have Stefan to pay for a large part of who I am as a vampire; honestly, I'm proud of the girl I am.

"Indeed, there is so much to learn about each other. Such as what your cousin implored earlier about your great sympathy towards the humans" he recalled. So he did hear that.

I shifted about the weight on my feet but looked back with determination "Father, we were once human. I'm not going to look down on the lives of humans like their insects." By the look on his face I have no doubt he'd never come across a vampire as concerned as me. "I mean they are people we once ruled over, who we watched over. There's nothing ok about torturing or enslaving the innocent so yes, as Stasya said, I feed off of animals or blood bags and the few times I do drink from humans, I don't kill." I asserted proudly.

"The animal blood tastes kinda funny" Lily teased with a playful 'yucky' face.

I will admit it's not as filling but none the less.

"That's an interesting perspective in its own way" he mused.

I tried to shake things off "We each have our ideologies." I turned back to Kris "So anyway, with this busyness I don't think we can hang today" referring back to his earlier suggestion.

"Maybe you guys can go after we get back, tonight" Lily suggested. Her face seemed to say she didn't want anybody being left out.

Well it definitely can't be tonight "No we can't, I mean, father wants us prepared for the Originals to arrive" I reminded.

"It'll be fine" we three looked back to my father "I trust your word over meeting the Originals, that things will run very peacefully. Besides, it isn't expected until much later tonight and you'll most likely be back by that hour. You and Kristoff go on and bond over a night off" he urged, with an approving smile.

I turned back to Kris, with his glance asking if I was up for it.

Well, I guess if when get back its possible; and nobody has any issues with a stepping out for a short while. He is becoming my friend, I owe him this much. Besides it's not as if I'm not curious to learn more about him.

"Alright then, it sounds like a plan" I smiled.

He nodded "I shall take the latter half of the afternoon back here to meet you upon your return. Until then, you ladies enjoy yourselves" he brought each of our hands to his lips, kissing our knuckles.

Lily even gave a cute curtsy.

"Let's go. Bye daddy" She hopped up to give a quick kiss to my father's cheek and I did the same.

"Enjoy yourselves girls"

I nodded to both of them before turning to leave.

I was still somewhat unsettled about things. Not Kris and I hanging out but my father's whole intake over the things he's just learned about me. He seemed to understand my viewpoint on things as I explained to him but I'm still not sure entirely about his opinion on my lifestyle choices. I know it must be strange to him but I'm hoping he and the other's will be more understanding of my opinions.

Before we rounded the corner, I couldn't help but glance back as they both talked. I guess this is just another family matter we'll soon have to work around now that we're almost all under one roof; not to mention with the Originals as our house guests.

.

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,

Monte Carlo, Monaco

.

It's quite amusing how I can easily foil plans.

People never quite manage to have all their bases covered.

Leonid was the only aristocrat to be sent while his the 7 other cohorts under his direction were ordinary ranked strigoi, except of course 2 of them which were of our vampire species. It seems there are those of our kind residing in this region that knew of this species, working to get in favor with their kind.

They'd never would have suspected I'd follow them here. Or that they'd need to be on vervain.

I suppose I'll infiltrate their arrangement from the most familiar side. No matter what species, these younger vampires can be quite ignorant, especially when things are spoken out in the blue.

Gossip can spread faster than ever imagined and striking my interest, it's quite fascinating to hear what word surrounds these Purebloods, whether live or dead.

This is where my scheme formulated….

In medieval times, what's to come about should anyone go against a royal?

I smirked as the sun set further over the horizon, and the setting of two very opposing game plans would take place.

A yacht…

Not the first time I've set foot in a luxurious and exclusive festivity.

The extravagance, the liqueur, the merriment…

Quite thirst quenching the recall

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(Italic~ speaking French)

"What do you think, Ximena?" Angelique called to me.

Reading over my text, I finally sent it before quickly putting my phone away to tune back into the conversation beside me.

"Ximena?"

"yeah, uh great. Uh wait, I'm sorry what were we talking about?" I had my attention averted to texting my friends Melina and Gisele. I had to tell people why I wasn't going to be able to make it back and they were the most disappointed, really looking forward to seeing me over the several months it's been.

"About Paulo" they motioned over to a group of guys conversing over drinks while sharing glances back our way.

Oh, they meant that tennis player guy.

Not sure who it was directed to but he gave a head nod our way. Soft giggles sounded at the gesture.

Can you really blame me for spacing out?

His attire and great features made him undoubtedly cute but like many others of his type here, he just doesn't do it for me. I've only ever had one real boyfriend in the past but I know that my type isn't the golden boy prince from the cliché stories; maybe someone more along the lines of the Zorro type... I don't know, someone genuinely fun and adventurous; who bends the rules….

I know Mercedes wishes I'd get to know more of these guys, arrange plans to hang out with them but I'm not going to pull that kind of publicity stunt. If she wants us to work our way up, it shouldn't be by feeding off each other's recognition to start gossip.

They seemed nice but the few I knew, I had no connection with. It's always the same story with all of them. Looking around, there were spreads of drinks and cuisine finger foods to enjoy. The setting was semi-formal and filled with high class guests in designer clothes, chatting about business, vacations or the latest gossip.

I had decided to go with a simple but stylish chiffon triangle strapped white dress with nude pumps and a sparkling silver collar necklace to accent the neck line of the dress. My long hair was kept down with side swept bangs and a few soft curls near the tips of it. I had my clutch only so I could carry my phone in there as I talked to my friends about tomorrow.

I had tried getting together with some of the girls that I'd now be working with but being so distracted, I wasn't really being of the best conversation.

"I think you might have caught his eye, Ximena. Why not introduce yourself?" The girl I now knew as Rosalyn suggested.

I just shook my head, uninterested in the idea.

"Why not, he's a fine catch?"

"He's quite the hot topic since winning his last tournament" None of that matters to me.

"Or maybe it could be she's already given her heart to a special someone" I looked back at Veronica, confused by her suggestion "Maybe the person you've been texting none stop all night"

I laughed, explaining "There's no guy in my life right now. I was just catching up with friends over some plans that changed"

My phone buzzed again; maybe I should just step away to somewhere less crowded to finish this up.

"Excuse me, I'll be back in a bit" I excused myself to find a more secluded sitting spot.

I made my way around the clusters of people while reading the response I'd gotten from Gisele.

I read "Tu trabajo no es hasta pasado mañana ¿Por qué no pasar mañana aquí por un rato antes de bolar a Morocco?(Your work in Morocco isn't until the day after tomorrow. Why not fly back here for the day tomorrow, then from here head to Morocco?~spanish)

As I excused my way through the gatherings of people, I got excited rereading the text to myself. That sounded like a great idea. True it'd be two plane rides in one day but it's so worth it!

It's probably a bad idea to walk and text as much as text and drive. I bumped into someone while trying to reply, thus dropping my phone.

"Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry. I wasn't looking where I was going" Looking up, I noticed it was Paulo Vargas, the guy we were talking about earlier.

"Oh that's quite alright…" he handed my phone back to me. " ...Ximena Everand; am I correct?"

I nodded. I guess maybe I did catch his eye

"I've heard about your new work with the agency in Paris. I must say they are quite lucky to have you, you are most certainly lovely"

I smiled politely at the compliment and we shook hands. "And your Paolo Vargas. I've heard you're a fantastic tennis player"

"Indeed I am" he grinned. Modest much?

I glanced down at my phone, hoping to get back to Melina and Gisele.

"In fact I have a match for the charity event tomorrow. Will you attending? I'd very much like you to see me play.."

I have no idea what else Mercedes has planned for us tomorrow but if I have anything to say about it, we'll be on our way back to Spain at the crack of dawn.

"Uh.." I was still kind of zoning out as I replied to the girls but suddenly felt the phone snatched from my hands.

"Of course we are" Mercedes had come up to us "And I'm sure Ximena would love an opportunity to see a match of yours."

Say what?

"I'm Mercedes, her manager" they shook hands "I'm sure it'd be a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other better. You'd make great friends"

Oh jeez, she's at it again. Why does she constantly put words in my mouth?

"I'd very much like that" he smiled to me.

"I'll leave you two to carry on" she walked away but taking my phone with her!

She walked off into the crowd. I need that back! Not to mention I need a word with her over our last plan.

"So are you enjoying the party so far? Perhaps I could offer you a drink?" he went on to make conversation.

"Uh maybe another time, excuse me." Mercedes would probably kill me for walking away from him but this matters more to me. I've got to tell her, now where did she walk off to?

I bumped into a few more people but didn't spend as much time apologizing this time to avoid running into others before I could talk with Mercedes.

She didn't appear to be here on the higher floor so maybe she's in the lower deck. This yacht is pretty huge.

Scattering through the middle ground there were much less people here; I saw her talking with some of the other publicists and agents. Getting closer, I tried waving my arm for her to see.

I'd be rude to interrupt and I didn't want to get dragged into any new deals or life stories being shared so I motioned for her to come over to me.

She still didn't look up.

I tried signaling her but I just look like an idiot trying to get her attention.

I groaned, crossing my arms. This is just great, now I have to wait for them to finish. Damn it, I want my phone…

I took a glass of some kind of fruity drink; from the taste I could tell it had alcohol in it but I really didn't care, maybe it'll improve my mood.

Finally after what seemed like forever, she and a guy turned to the steps of the stairs leading further below and I followed.

Not too far behind her, I saw her walk down the hall before turning right into a door. It was one of the private lounge rooms.

I looked in through the window to see her and the high class gentlemen talk while sitting across from each other. From the looks of it, they looked to really be enjoying each other's company. Well now, I'm glad she's having a good time! Is this a business talk or a flirt fest?

I knocked on the door, opening it to step in and they automatically looked up. A stern look growing on Mercedes face

"Vincent, this is my client, Ximena"

He offered me his hand as we greeted each other.

"Ximena, what are you doing down here?" She tried to mask her disapproving tone.

"I need to speak to you, now" I replied automatically in a serious tone "…alone" I looked to the gentleman before motioning us to step outside to talk.

"Can this not wait…" she was trying to make me take a hint but I'm not going to stop nagging about this until she agrees to have us fly back to Spain.

"It's quite alright, go on. I'll wait here" he insisted.

Finally nodding, she stood from her seat to follow me outside the door.

Once we were out in the hall that looked out onto the bay, I turned to face her. As soon as the door behind her shut she hissed in a low voiced harsh tone "What is going on with you? I left you with a fine choice of a man for you and yet you're down here rudely interrupting my meeting with Vincent" she exclaimed, completely perplexed.

I honestly didn't care "Look I just needed to speak with you about our schedule. Mercedes you've known my family for years and all I've wanted to do is go back to spend my birthday with them. I know I have work to do but it can still all work out" she groaned as I was still stuck on the topic we had argued about all day. She knows I can be very persistent.

"We're already here for this party. I want to fly back home first thing in the morning to spend the day with my friends, madrina and the others; then come night fall, we can fly to Morocco and arrive just in time for my next project" I explained my plan. "That's why I was texting so much earlier"

Her hands automatically went to her hips, shaking her head "You were invited to the society's charity tennis tournament. It would be very rude to not go now" she argued.

"It's even ruder to cancel on someone" I countered "I never agreed to go to that. You swooped in and did all the talking without even taking my opinion on it. I'm not interested in any tennis tournament" I huffed.

She stared back at me, disbelieving at the fit I was having. Jeez, what do I have to do to make her understand?

"How can you possibly sneer at all the wonderful opportunities I've set up for you? I've done everything in my power to make you succeed. When you took your leave from working, your fathers responsibilities were passed on too you and it's because of all that that your house was foreclosed on."

She's so good at bringing all that stuff up again. My gosh! Is one lousy birthday home really gonna send me spiraling back into debt? That's just being so melodramatic.

"After everything I've done for you, how can you possibly make me the bad guy here?"

"Because you have me drowning in this so called work" I waved out "We're at a party in a yacht, how is this work?" I scoffed.

"Its client relations, interacting with those in the field is part of the job" I rolled my eyes "Besides, your telling me all this the night before. Do you have any idea how hard it is going to be to book two flights in the morning. How troublesome and exhausting that will be.." she insisted, groaning at the idea.

"PLEASE, it's worth it to me. Let me have this" I insisted again; my eyes pleading her to just give in and do this for me.

She groaned, throwing her arms out to pace around. I'm not giving up on this…

"I'll think about it and get back to you in a little while, for now just go back upstairs and do your best to socialize" It wasn't the answer I was hoping for but hope sprung.

I sighed, my arms falling to my sides "Fine, can I at least have my phone back?" I whined.

She handed it back before taking a moment to point out "This is not a confirmation. Do not going saying you'll be going because I still haven't finished considering" she noted sternly.

Jeez, she can be just as stubborn. I don't know how things could go from here.

Taking my phone back, she turned to walk back inside to join Vincent. No doubt they'll be all over each other within the next five minutes. I've seen her bring men home, so it's a pretty likely bet.

"Mercedes…" I wanted to make one final plea before she shut the door on me and closed the doors window blinds.

Argh… I lean against the door frame.

Well I guess my prediction might be right on after all.

Walking on down the hall, I brought my phone back out so I could finish replying to my friends.

Leaning against the railing that looked out on the ocean horizon, I let them know about my discussion with Mercedes. Of course I wasn't able to make any guarantees but I still wanted to keep them updated about how I was doing everything I could.

She did have a point, it would be hard to find a flight. The airport was a pretty hefty distance away from my home out near in the country side of northern Spain

Looking out onto the bay, the yacht had sailed farther out and the sun's rays were now completely gone, showing the illumination of the moon and stars in the sky, as well as the lights of the yacht reflecting onto the water.

There wasn't really anybody on this side of the boat. I could still hear commotions coming from a ways away so everyone must be gathered together in the higher decks.

I didn't much feel like going back up there. These things weren't really my idea of fun, it's not what I consider a real party. For one, even if there was music playing, nobody was dancing. It's just a bunch of people striking up chatter over drinks and finger foods.

Call it being a typical teenager but I love to dance, to see people doing crazy stunts, daredevil mischief where things get broken. Appearances didn't matter, all that was important was having fun.

I guess even if I do go tomorrow I won't really have time for most of that. Still, it was nice knowing my friends wanted anytime with me they could get before we each got back to work or school..

Sighing, they let me know to keep them updated before I put my phone back in my clutch. Fumbling with my bag I turned away from the railing to make my way back up. No sense in being ticked off all night. I guess I could go get a drink and maybe the music will get a stronger beat. I did enjoy some that was playing earlier, maybe people have formed a dance floor by now…

Starting my way down the hall back towards the stairs, there came the sound of footsteps further ahead of me. Looking up to see a figure walk closer, I made direct eye contact with a pair of dark brown eyes.

Have you ever been in that situation where you walk down a long hall, all you hear is the sound of your shoes on the floor and up ahead there's nothing else around but the person walking in the opposite direction of you…?

It can actually make you feel a little bashful since there are no other places for you to look except at that stranger in the seconds it takes you to pass each other.

When I had turned to see him, I didn't mean to lock eyes for more than a second but as we both continued walking I couldn't help but stay frozen since he didn't at all make a move to look away from me. It's kind of like their stare holds yours in place.

I could see the beginnings of a grin form on his face. Suddenly that was my cue to look back forward, even though I could technically still see him from the side of my eyes. I could feel my face begin to heat up, nervously. I must have looked so awkward just staring back at him. How did he do it so casually and why? My eyes scattered lower to the ground but I could still feel his gaze and couldn't help the reaction of looking back at him. Blinking back up to him, he wasn't looking directly at me like at first but out of the corner of his eye, he was. The traces of a charming smile were still evident on his face when we finally passed each other, each of us walking in the direction the other came from.

This all happened in a matter of seconds but it felt way longer than that.

Reaching the stairs, I let out a breath I didn't even know I'd been holding. How did I let an eye contact occasion with a stranger get me so timid? I was typically more a recluse person but I still interacted well with other people; strange how a long stare unnerved me and his smile clearly showed he knew how sheepish he made me feel back there.

Shaking off the awkwardness I created for myself, I heard more of a bustle grow as I made my way through the middle level. Getting up to the higher main deck, almost everyone was up here talking to themselves when all of a sudden I heard painful screeches of struggle that half the people didn't even turn to and the other half sounded off gasps.

Suddenly more screams erupted and the people began to scatter.

Looking over the crowd I was met with flashes of red up ahead of me…

My eyes widened and my stomach dropped, there were almost 10 bodies suddenly piled down into a splatter of red and all of a sudden your typical horror movie reactions became a reality.

People yelled, cried, backed away or froze to fall unconscious at what they were looking at. Everything then became a frenzy as people began to scatter and scream bloody murder while I stared back at something I'd never ever thought I'd see in reality.

There were several men dressed in black all around the deck with mouths covered in red blood.

I think I'm going to pass out…

Their eyes glowed inhumanly in the night sky, their teeth as sharp as knives. My clutch hit the floor as I was frozen in a state of shock at what exactly was in front of me right now.

They suddenly vanished and reappeared at impossible speed to slit open another neck for the blood to splatter onto the floor.

Even with the screams over the waves of people, all that rang in my ears was silence as I looked on at what must be a figment of my nightmares but I couldn't look away, paralyzed.

The noise of the situation only returned when I locked sight with veined eyes that had red spread over them. A wicked smirk set on the creatures face as it looked back at me and all I could think to do what let out a blood curtling scream as I returned to reality, turned and backed away to where the this creature wasn't looking to me.

I shoved by people and more screams came all around! We were on a yacht, where was anybody supposed to go? This can't positively be reality! I need to wake up now!

All of a sudden all the tables, and equipment came crashing down onto a heap on the floor and over some people.

I was shoved down as people fled away, and nearly twisted my ankle. The impact didn't come as hard as I expected the floor to be but opening my eyes I saw the pale white look of a corpse with a bloody neck and eyes still wide open, frozen with pain and horror. I exploded into a fit of screams because I was lying on a mangled dead body!

Scrambling to get up I was suddenly hurdled to my feet. Holding both my arms, two of the people I had met earlier were keeping me in place. It was Angelique and an auction director Frederick.

"She's the one!" They screamed; I noticed the people who hadn't noticed the commotion before were now pointing towards me.

I'm what?

Half the people were fleeing in fear while the other half looked in a hypnotized zombie type fashion, pointing directly at me….

My jaw slackened, heart pounding up to my ears, I felt dryness in my throat from being so stunned.

"She's the one" They repeated again and again.

The chaos was so loud but attention from those monsters soon moved in my direction and the reality of it all came back to me.

I thrashed and struggled "Let me go!" I screeched.

I don't know what alternate dimension I stepped into but they've got the wrong girl! Their grips tightened like iron to keep me in place but I lashed out my arms, making a direct hit with Frederick's nose, drawing blood with its crack. I clawed at Angelique's face, instantly making her let go.

Pushing away from them I dashed through the crowds and around the screaming guests.

Some who had been pointing earlier automatically made grabs for me. I was petrified; I ran and lashed to anyone who pulled on me, feeling tears come to the rims of my eyes but I was too much in run-away mode to stop and breakdown.

I couldn't think over anywhere else to escape to but back with Mercedes. We need to get out of here, we need to call for help!

Coming back to the middle level I could see people had fled as well and two of which were know being attacked in a bloody massacre.

Blood…

Not even stopping to gawk at the spreading of red I was seeing I dashed further down to the lower deck.

Panting and holding back fear filled sobs I was on the verge of falling over from running in these heels.

Turning down to make it down the last few steps, I suddenly felt my right heel slide from right under me off the top, landing in a painful position but unable to keep me from falling forward.

I gasped out as I fell forward to the air, ready to roll down the last few steps when all of a sudden my fall was broken.

I was caught midair by strong arms.

Panting out of breath, I opened my eyes to see myself resting forward against the person's arms while their hands held my waist to lift me back to my feet.

I shot up to see who I'd run into and once again met the dark brown eyes I encountered down here earlier.

He looked back at me with concern "êtes-vous bien ma chérie?" (Are you alright, darling? ~ ;)

I was gasping for air and fighting a sob "It-its, there are killers up there, people are being killed. There was blood. We need help" I wasn't even making any sense. My speech was all jumbled but it sounds like he didn't know what was going on

He gave me a confused look. I probably sound like mad woman.

I moved away from the stairs, pulling him along "We need to hide, call for help. There are monsters up there…" he held his hands up signaling me to calm down and stopped me but I couldn't.

"We can't go up there. We need to get off this boat. They were biting people necks open. People were saying I was the one" I ran my hands threw my hair in hysterics as I couldn't pull him in the direction I was heading. Mercedes, I need to warn her too!

Are we going to be killed?

"Darling, calm down. Just breath…" Shaking my head I pulled away from him to hurry back where I was going "No, no, no we need to go. I'm not making this up. People are being killed up there I need to go.."

"Calm down" he tried to pull me back.

"No you're not listening to me!" I opposed but he still tugged me forward as I struggled, each time stronger.

"We need to get away…" I was breaking down but he took a firm grip of my upper arms, not hurting me though. Holding me forward to look directly at him, he held my chin so I wouldn't look away.

"Please just take a deep breath and breath. Its ok, it's going to be alright" I was very quietly hiccupping as I looked into his reassuring expression "Take deep breathes"

I could still feel myself trembling at everything I just saw. The blood, the corpses the fanged creatures…

None the less I knew I needed to get a hold of myself, so I followed his instruction.

Taking a moment to catch my breath but still shaky in his hold.

He nodded at seeing my attempts to compose myself "Yes, that's good" he shhhed

I still wanted to dash for us to go hide but I was then pulled forward. I was somewhat taken aback to feel him tuck my head under his chin to sooth me. I was suddenly so confused at the unexpected warm envelopment from this stranger but it helped settle the trembling that took over me; I even gripped onto his jacket with the anxiety "Shh…Its ok. I'll help you, just relax"

The gesture was very comforting, it was helping me but danger still wasn't far….

"Now" he held me back to look me in the eyes "explain to me what exactly you saw"

I was staggered at what to say, mouth slightly opening and closing as I tried to make out how I would describe exactly what all that was. I still didn't understand it myself…

"I-I don't know. They were inhuman, even though they looked it" like beasts in human form "They ripped peoples necks open. They were drinking the blood" I stammered at the woozy idea "Something's attacking people; I don't know what they are…."

There were louder rumblings and screams that could be heard above us as we looked up the stairs I just ran down from.

And I don't want to find out! All I want to do is wake up from this nightmare, safe at home with my madrina.

My breathing was growing quicker just listening in to the sounds. This stranger now patted my shoulders to settle me in place "Alright, so there are some kind of killers up there…" he mused, eyes looking analyzing but something in his tone sounded a little confusing to me.

I couldn't help but narrow my eyes at him because he didn't sound as surprised or worried as I would have thought. He didn't brush me off and call me insane either.

"Let's see now, what could these things be…" his voice sounded a little more playful now, I cocked my head looking back at him.

"as they attacked people" he gestured back up the stairs, one hand still on my should "did they possibly have incredible strength…" and speed; I thought back to the killings. "…kind of like this"

I gasped on automatic reaction as I was suddenly a breath away from his face while my upper arms were held with an iron grip. Eyes widened, in a fraction of a second the distance between us had disappeared and I was staring up close into his dark eyes that had something far more than charm behind them.

They now had a wicked quality spreading from his eyes to the rest of his features. A devilish smile had grown on his face and I was blindsided by this sudden change in demeanor.

My heartbeat had sounded up to my eardrums as I was at a loss of what to do or what's going on…

"….did they have a desiccating veins appearance rise underneath their eyes?" his husky voice lowered as he seemed to be teasing me. It was that next second I felt myself ready to have my blood pressure spiral me into a stroke as it already rushed by feeling him so beyond the boundaries into my personal space.

The hysterical sense of panic went skyrocketing again as I saw his handsome features form dark pulsing veins on the underside of his eyes. Shock completely took over me…

"… did their eyes go red" the whites of his eyes then blurred into a frightening blood red and I could feel my own eyes welling up with tears as I tried pulling back to distance our faces…

He smirked so widely at seeing my fright now overcome with having him so close to me

"…and did they have fangs" I whispered; his breath tickling my face but I now knew "…like these"

He's one of them!

He bared his fangs at me in a hiss and I screamed out, trying to pull away!

I lashed out to pull myself from his grip and I surprisingly succeeded.

Throwing his hands off me, I hit the wall behind me and he smirked amusingly at seeing me so terrified.I automatically burst into a sprint around him, trying to desperately distance us.

Sobs escaped me and as did a few tears from being so aghast with everything I just witnessed. I ran for my life as fast as I could to get away from him and any of the others. Mercedes! Someone, anyone help me!

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KPOV

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Oh how fun; I couldn't help it.

She ran around me in a vain attempt to get away. I chuckled to myself at seeing that pretty little face grow horrified that I was one of the beings that fed off human blood. Holding her so up close I thought she would literally be scared to death right in my arms.

I was grinning at the amusement of hearing her run. She obviously couldn't get very far from me, but who am I to ruin the thrill of the chase? Besides, she's still got another surprise before we're done here.

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The engine has been set to combust, it is now ablaze in the lower front deck and the fire is spreading.

"Our primary goal is retrieving the girl. She was just here, where has she fled too?"

"The humans we compelled singled her out just moments ago. We saw her run to hide below deck, Lord Lenoid" Jarred informed.

Excellent, the yacht disaster serves as a perfect explanation for the girl's without a trace disappearance from this human industry.

This accident will of course have to have survivors to tell the tale. We managed to compel just about half the inhabitants aboard. This mission also served as a fine way to indulge our great thirst. Many mortals lay wasted in little pooled remains of blood while we continued to feast. As the inferno takes the yacht down, the compelled lot will take to the water, swim to escape and they will tell of this engine accident that caused the deaths of many. The fire will disintegrate the mangled corpses to erase all evidence of any alternative story being suspected by the humans.

"It's time to finish this. Bring the girl and let us make our leave" I instructed.

"Certainly, but I believe Eliot and Jason have already followed the girl" he added.

Very well then, however, I do hope they handle the situation delicately. The girl must be overwhelmed with fear. We were instructed to gently put her to sleep until we arrive back in Moscow with Lord Vladimir and the rest of her family.

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In full pant, I hit against the door for Mercedes to answer. I don't know if he's behind me but there's no way I'm looking back.

"Mercedes!"

Open up! Oh, screw manners! I don't care what I walk into!

Pulling against the door knob, it was open.

"Mercedes, theres-hhhhhaaaa!" I gasped in pure shock, before bringing both my hands to cover my mouth. I froze on spot and as gruesome as the scene looked, I couldn't pull my eyes away.

Lines of liquid red decorated all over the furniture and floor leading to one of the sources. The man I'd seen with Mercedes earlier had his body totally mutilated as he laid drenched in red from his wounds. His eyes still looked in shock from his attack. It was paralyzing how his expression had remained.

I was still too overwhelmed to react normally but felt myself slowly back up as my eyes looked up to see the prominent figures in the room.

A beast like man with dark hair and eyes like the one I just ran into was holding the limp body of Mercedes in his arms. I couldn't see her face but from the way she was unreactive, and the blood that adorned the corners of the man's mouth, I could tell Mercedes was dead.

A silent panic attack was induced inside of me. I couldn't look away from either of the dead forms but finally felt the tears of fear I had been holding back drip from my eyes. My hands falling limp; it finally all caved in on me.

I know what I'm looking at and its 100% positive that I'm awake, that they're dead, that there are bloodsucking demons on this boat, and that I'm completely vulnerable and alone now…..

"Princess Dimitra…" it wasn't the vampire grinning back at me that had spoken. This man had eyes glowing white, making the iris glow more than the rest of the eye did but it quickly vanished the next second as he pulled handkerchief to clean off his hands. "I am Jason. It is so nice to finally you. Do forgive the setting but all will be made clear to you very soon" they speak…

What did they just call me?

I was still backing away slowly to the door, eyes dashing back and forth between each of them; however, I came to a stop at feeling someone standing behind me and turned to see another man cleaning off his mouth but this one without glowing eyes.

"The last missing member of the Aleksandrovich family…" I had nowhere else to turn but back into the room.

I was caved in, there was nowhere else for me to run…

"She's even more lovely in person." The one who was holding Mercedes's body dropped her dead to the floor. Seeing her gone, I felt utterly alone now.

"Yes, such a radiance she shares with her sisters. They are royalty after all.." Jason added

What were these people going on about…?

Is this how it ends? What are they going to do?

"And a Pureblood…" The last one to came in said.

Jason went on "Now continue with our next step, Eliot. The lady is so over whelmed; do relieve the stress of these present conditions…"

"Oh relief will come…"the way he made that sound.

The one now known as Eliot stepped away from Mercedes body and approached me. I instantly backed away, looking for anything I could defend myself with… There was a dangerous look in his eyes.

"What are you doing…?" Jason now looked analytically to Eliot.

"Do you not wonder if the stories are true? Should one be so fortunate as to taste a share of the abilities of the blood running through one such as her…"

All this blood drinking; Vampire, that's the perfect word for these creatures!

They are real… and I'm going to be drained…

Jason's eyes widened in exasperation "Eliot, to say such a thing" he hissed in complete surprise "you could be slayed for such a suggestion…"

The way he claimed that would be wrong. Do I still have a chance at living? It sounds like my best chance for survival is with the one called Jason…

"Don't pretend the idea doesn't excite you" the last one added, approaching Jason slightly "to think, we could share their strengths, be on par with them" he sneered evilly.

He looked back in outrage at the two electing to kill me. I don't know what the big idea is but please don't let them kill me…

My eyes still watering and pleading, I then took sight of a glass vase sitting on a shelf near where I'd backed off to.

"I call first bite…" I screamed in fear as his fangs elongated.

"No stop!" Jason boomed but as he shot forward to Eliot, the other vampire had slammed against him. They crashed into the broken coffee table in a struggle of restrain

Eliot was about to lung for me; I can't just let this be my end so easily! I lifted the vase and brought it hard down straight against his forehead before making a run for the door.

Water, for the flowers it held, spilt all over his face and shards fell to the floor while some were embedded in his face. The hit had definitely set him back but it had hurt me in the process. Shards of the vase were jabbed into my palms, bleeding them out but I ignored the pain while I dashed to make my exit.

I'll swim for it that's all there's left to possibly do!

"Stop this now!" I heard the other two thrashed and all of a sudden, Eliot zoomed in from out of nowhere, right in front of me at that incredible speed.

Almost colliding with him from my run, he had me completely at his reach! I took hold of a tall lamp post and wacked the side of his head with it. The shade and bulb broke off but turning back to me he pulled it from my hands before I could even release the other end. Twisting my arm away from my defense, the lamp was dropped and he used his other hand to take hold of my hair and the back of my neck. He painfully bent my head to the side and the crook of my neck was in full opening!

That very next second I felt the flesh near my jugular ravenously pierced! I screeched in unbelievable horror and agonizing pain…..!

"Stop it, Eliot, you fool! Such treachery!"

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.

Out of all the commotion taking place on the yacht that slowly spread fire, where people screamed and others dove to swim back to the pier, the screams of the girl and the yells of Jason were picked up by the other supernatural beings.

Many flashed their way to the scene, including Lenoid, the aristocrat tasked with coordinating the plan.

Benjamin was keeping Jason at bay in a brawl whilst Eliot took the vulnerable human state of the reincarnated princess as an opportunity to feed on the girl's blood.

It was legend that the taste of a Pureblood vampire's life essence would amplify their strengths and translate their special abilities within the drinker. In an effort of ambition, the girl slowly grew frail, weak, vision running dark, the screams died down…

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JPOV

As soon as the girls eyes fell shut, the immediacy of the situation sank in. The girl was on the line of death.

I thwarted Benjamin off me, snapping his neck "Let her go…"

Before I could even finish that sentence Eliot had released. Eyes wide in shock, groaning…

Is the blood truly affecting him…?

The girl fell to the floor and from the faint heart beat I could tell she was still alive, but barely.

It then that a gory crunching sound snapped to make Eliots body drop to the floor, eyes rolled back in his eyes. He was dead, while standing behind him, a man we were all taught to recognize stood present, bloody hand holding the heart of our perpetrator.

"You don't know who to rely on these days…" he smirked before lowering himself to the ground.

Lady Dimitra lay blacked out on the floor and in very delicate condition. I rushed forward but he signaled me to stop, only doing so as to not provoke anymore conflict. What was he doing here?

Her wound bled out and had stained her dress. The Original vampire carefully cradled her head to sit the girl up before drawing his fangs. Predicting the worst, I aimed myself to throw him off her when I saw him bring his fangs down on his own wrist. I stopped in surprise to see him bleed his own arm to bring it to the girl's mouth. It would heal her….

In doing this, my comrades entered the setting with us…

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LPOV

My eyes widened in disbelief to see who was in the middle of the scene.

The Original brother that had arrived in Moscow to meet with Lord Vladimir was here aboard this yacht with us. Not only that but scene showed 2 of our men dead while he sat holding Vladimir's last reincarnated daughter unconscious, feeding her his blood.

"Unhand her!" We were warned about him but I never suspected he'd appear here. I bared my maroon glowing eyes and fangs to separate him from the girl when Jason quickly appeared before me.

"Lord Leonid, it is alright. He saved her" he called to me in our native tongue.

My eyes darted between the two but I still kneeled to examine the girl. Her neck was severely wounded. Did he do this?! Vladimir would kill us all upon knowing his daughter had been drained.

"Relax mate, I'm healing her" he defended.

My men then rushed to restrain him, pulling him away from young Dimitra by both his arms.

He then quickly responded launching them to hit opposite walls, shaking them off as if they were nothing.

"I'm an Original, if anyone here makes a move against me they'll be nailed down by their spines to this boat as it sinks" he declared with a challenging gin.

They all stared him down while I examined the girl.

"He saved her from what?" I readdressed Jason "What happened here?"

"What happened is some of your men had their own agenda in mind" the original motioned to the two dead bodies of Eliot and Benjamin.

"We were retrieving the girl, Lord Leonid. Upon meeting her Eliot and Benjamin revealed their intents to drain the girl for her pureblood" My eyes widened at such a betrayal.

They've been our allies for years, to learn of such an ambitious betrayal was unspeakable.

"I attempted to keep them from getting near her when Benjamin attacked me. It was Eliot that bit her and it was then that Mr…." he motioned toward the Original for his name.

"Kol Mikaelson" he introduced himself proudly smirking "please, just Kol"

"that Kol, pulled his heart from his chest, while I managed to snap Jason's neck" he relayed the happenings to me.

Feeling her neck for a pulse, she was thankfully still alive but it seems were wound was still very much present. He had fed her his blood, it would have made her get as new. "her wound isn't healing.." I noted with concern still very worrying.

We all looked in closely to the deep bite marks, upon further inspection and vivid vision it carefully appeared in the process of closing…

"Actually, it's going very slowly. How curious…" Kol mused..

"Will the lady be alright, Lord Leonid" another one of my men, Alik, voiced to me.

As long as she's healing I nodded "I believe so. It must be her reincarnated anatomy, her spelled essence; this girl is after all destined to become a Pureblood Slavic vampire. That must be why the vampire blood in her system doesn't have its full effect it would have on an ordinary human. None the less, it shall heal her…" I was finally able to breathe easy, knowing our mission hadn't been a failure. The girl was now out of harm's way…. at least I believe so…

I looked back to the Mikaelson brother standing before us. Vladimir had specifically been suspicious of this man from the very beginning. What was his purpose here? He must have come for the girl as well…

I handed the girl to my men before facing him head on "Why have you followed us to Monte Carlo? Were you after the girl too…" I didn't question, I asserted.

He grinned even wider back at me "Are you accusing me of intending to kill the girl myself?" he dared me in a challenging manner. I stood firm, examining his face for hidden motives.

"After Vladimir informed me of his family's story, it struck me as bizarre that the last of his daughters wasn't present. We would be forming an alliance soon and both our family's properly introduced yet the girl was still at bay. I intended to retrieve his daughter for him. Why wait to reunite, her presence too comes with the deal and what better way to express my good faith than by bringing her safely home…"

He stared at me in a manner for me to back off, yet I wouldn't so easily.

"how was I to know he had already sent for here?" he finished.

"…well Vladimir is my friend. My entire allegiance is too him and his family. Your families are still very unfamiliar to each other so forgive me if your presence and explanation still hold a skeptical suspicion…" I declared.

He finally stepped back at my serious expression, taunting my reasoning with a laugh "I'm one of the oldest vampires in history. If I wanted the girl dead, I could have easily done so in less than the time it takes you to blink" he then motioned towards the bodies "Or if I wanted her dead, why would I have saved her from your two corrupt cohorts?"

Indeed, why did he?

"Lord Leonid, I was constrained. If Kol here hadn't killed Eliot, she would now be dead" Jason noted in his defense.

With this notion, it does seem to prove his innocence of any underhanded leverage tactics over the Aleksandrovich family.

Finally sighing, I dropped my guard.

He held his hands up in a playful defense "I'll even accompany you and your men here back to Moscow"

A rumbling then quaked throughout the yacht. The boat tilted, making much of the furniture slide. It was ready to go down.

Turning back to Kol Mikaelson, arms behind my back I motion for the others to do the same. "Well then I believe we owe you a deep apology and our humblest gratitude.." we gave a slight bow.

He chuckled to himself "no worries, let's be on our way, shall we"

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KPOV

Well this has been a fun trip to Monte Carlo, its isn't a vacation without a little death..

The dining was to die for.

We made our leave and the vampire called Benjamin was beheaded upon his awakening.

I now have their full trust and the girl is slowly healing. It appears she'll live to die another day. She'll die in to be turned, all their secrets soon to be exposed to us.

How lovely when a plan comes so perfectly together….

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CPOV

"Tatianna favors the classical epics, tragedies and comedies that portray the Aristotelian unities; but fairytales are still great literature. Its where a lot of modern stories stem from too" I smiled at her enthusiasm. That's quite an analysis. I can't believe I'm hearing that from someone who will always be a child. She's retained a lot of her innocent little girl qualities but in other aspects she can show those centuries of wisdom.

"I agree there's a definite beauty to them. I was never too big on fairytales but I did love them as a little kid" I did think there was a cliché-ness to them but I've learned they offer a beautiful escape from reality. "I studied a lot over them in my undergraduate career and it's like they took me back. As a child you have the biggest dreams, the biggest ambitions and feel the world at your hands; that nothing can bring you down. Studying them and even doing a few plays made me feel like my old self again. The girl that had so many fantasies about her own happily ever after life and that dreams do come true…"

"And now you're a princess too! Its like we have our own fairytale to write" she teased. A real twist since we're the monsters of the story as well as the protagonists.

This fascination with storytelling and folklore, I can tell it's why she's so excited about my auditions.

"Which one is your favorite?" she asked, taking a sip of her hot chocolate.

Taking a nip of my key lime tart, my eyes wondered about the café as I thought it over. Good question.

"Well, I'm not much of a Cinderella, or Rapunzel fan because of how helpless they were. I believe in strong women…" she chuckled with a head nod at my comment.

"If we're talking about Disney then I think Jasmine and Mulan were great but when it comes to traditional fairytales, I think the message behind Beauty and the beast is so beautiful" I smiled "I take it that's your favorite too?"

"One of them.." she nodded somewhat "They aren't particularly romantic but I actually favor Hansel and Gretel, Tom Thumb, and Little Red Riding Hood. Stories of the triumph and learning of children" I nodded. They portray her character so well. They go on to express in deeper meaning how children must overcome their own childish ways to survive, about temptation, or representing a loss of innocence in a deeper meaning.

"You know there are various versions of those. Some say certain fairytales aren't meant for children at all" she nodded at my notion.

"I know. They change the wording slightly to abide by what was proper in those times. It portrays girls as naïve, or too curious, or damsels in distress. They say Little Red Riding hood is about the exposure of young girls to sexuality and the seduction of men represented by the wolf." There's that wiser character showing again. She's so sweet and innocent but still very smart.

It felt odd to hear her say such things but it's true. In life she only lived to be 7, almost 12 the second time around; it seems as though father still keeps her very sheltered but I can't help but wonder what she's seen in her vampire years..

"You're a very remarkable thinker. Would you say you've ever felt those obstacles?" I sipped my green tea.

She gave a headshake saying, somewhat "In certain ways yes, but not quite an enchanted journey…" I cocked my head at her.

Looking down to my script of Beauty and the Beast in her hand, her shoulders rose back up in a new idea, eyes so wondrous "Caroline…"

Something's crossed her mind. I nodded for her to go on.

"What's it like to be kissed…" my brows rose at this new found question.

With all this talk of fairytales it was bound to stem, but I hadn't ever pictured these situations on her exactly.

An immortal child… "You've never been kissed…?" she shook her head.

She's lived for so many years but frozen as a little girl. I myself didn't get my first kiss till I was 13 but even in such a state its hard to imagine someone living for centuries without that sort of contact.

It's so precious yet… somewhat gloomy…

How could I best word this? Taking a breath "A proper kiss… It's like a feathery softness. You get flutters in your stomach, a tickle in your brushed noses, a floating feeling from your feet…"

"Caroline…"

" as if your heart can beat again, your face grows warm with a blush…"

"Caroline…" she said more forcibly in a whisper…

Looking around I gasped and dropped us down immediately. There it goes again! I had levitated our table and chairs off the ground. How do I do that? I'm still not sure exactly how it can be channeled and focused! Things just happen sometimes! And from small scale to large…

"Argh!"

Some people turned to look at hearing around table rattle to the ground but it seemed no one noticed the floating. It's a good thing it wasn't very busy with other people in here right now.

"I take it that's what a kiss is like?" she joked. I shot her a snotty look for her poking fun at me but couldn't help but grin myself.

"That isn't funny" I failed in defending. "I can't have that always happening; it even flings out randomly while I'm rehearsing." I think I might have messed up the Into the Wood audition with that worry.

"Well if your emotions are running that deep, it must mean you're a very good actress" she lightened as I asked for my check.

We'd been out all afternoon, walking about the city's attractions while I job hunted and submitted out various applications. It's about time we made our way back.

About our walk along the streets, on up the main road leading to our estate among the Kremlin property Lily rumbled the stones along the walkway.

"You know when I started out the property, maybe even town had various small scale earthquakes" She levitated various rocks around her. "I frightened myself which only made it worse, sometimes. Father would usually have to put me to sleep"

"What's the secret" I sighed.

She shrugged "it's like meeting a new friend. With time, you get used to each other. You work as one…"

She closed her hands and the rocks crackled as if under the pressure. They eroded into various sediments before gathering together and Lily blew them away.

As fractions of a former witches magic, it did leave me peculiar on how these particular powers formed themselves. How mine took the form of telekinesis and hers geokinesis.. I don't know how we ended up like this but I'm glad we're reunited. I'm glad I have Lily, Megara and all the others back.

We were finally on the grounds and Lily turned to me "I'll race you to the door" The stone tile below her rumbled off the ground and roomed her to the air with her giggling.

My jaw dropped at the suggestion. Her look challenging; ginning back I levitated myself off the ground as focused as I could and she took this as I sign to fly on.

Darn it! I'm not as fast as her! I carried myself forward and zoomed on as fluently as I could to the entrance.

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KLPOV

Dusk was setting in over the city. The night would certainly carry on quite restless for the flight we caught out of New Orleans left for Moscow at 8:30 p.m. The twelve hour flight left us resting the majority of the way here, though day was barely coming to an end on this side of the globe.

Setting eyes on the splendid city view, the anticipation coursed through me. Exiting the plane, Elijah and I were quick to recover our luggage while Rebekah sought out Marcel. Our regrouping was very much a well needed as we prepared to arrive upon our destination.

It seems Kol's run off to unfold his own schemes for the time being thought Marcel assures me not to worry. It can't be helped considering such matters are always unsettling when it comes to Kol.

Rebekah was simply glad to see that Marcel was in good condition although being left alone with these people until we arrived. It seems they might just be people of their word…

This brought my thoughts back to their association with Caroline. She was a goodness beyond compare, however her association with these people still leaves me very skeptical. They claim she is their reincarnated daughter but I do not trust this until I see first-hand proof within her. If she has been brainwashed or manipulated in any way things will not end well here….

I had already informed my siblings over her presence here. They had their uncertainties as well but for the time being we would carry things on at their current mode.

The town car drove around the Kremlin walls and towers, through the Red Square and St. Basil's Cathedral, leading on down towards of the palace estates. I couldn't help but grimace at the locale of their settlement. So they inhabit a branch of the Kremlin, alongside the country's political figures. Well aren't they self-righteous? Lamentably, even I must confess to their organization over the centuries was done very remarkably. I've done much of the same work over the centuries as a Lord and King of New Orleans yet it came as I myself learned and won the power through my own will. Aside from the hierarchy of my biological father's family that was kept in the shadows to me, and the patriarch figure of the Original Family, I wasn't born onto a thrown over vast lands. This Vladimir would prove quite formidable to me; friend or foe I will learn all his secrets…

Finally arriving, we stepped out of the car to be greeted by two lovely young women. The aura around them seemed to admit a supernatural glow to them. They definitely had the air, not only of a vampire but of elitism… If these women are who I've been told of, it just strikes my curiosity higher as to where Caroline might be…

The help from the estate quickly rushed to attend to our luggage as we approached the two women.

They stepped down to meet us and gave a curtseyed bow "It is an honor to make your acquaintance, Lords and Lady Mikaelson"

The formality was quite charming. It reflected their era of their origins and customs.

"Please, with the times, there are no need for such titles to be put into play" I smiled.

"Though we shall present our manners.." Elijah stepped forward, he and I bowing before them in equal respect as Rebekah gave a curtsey. After doing so we properly connected hands "Please, call me Klaus"

"I am Elijah…" we informed.

"Rebekah.." After revisiting the formal greeting, she had crossed her arms back into her more modern stance. She didn't mask her apathy too well, though it has always been known Rebekah didn't make proper acquaintance with other women very well at all. It's just who she is.

The didn't let her stance effect them at all

"I am Tatianna Aleksandrovich" I kissed her hand.

"and I am Lenora Aleksandrovich" Elijah did the same with her hand.

" You must be exhausted after such a sudden and long journey. Please come inside to make yourselves at home. Our sisters, cousins and father's are inside waiting…" they motioned us to follow.

This too would somewhat strike a cord with me. Their family sounded so vast. Our family branched to many lengths yet the immediate relations were narrowed down to 5 or 6 people, depending on whether Marcel or Madeline were also named. Yet these Princes had their children's generation count up to 8 total, that being if they included Caroline…

This is it...

We followed eagerly and basked in the sight of such beauty within this ancient fortress. It was quite an extravagant sight but it didn't take long for us to reach the formal common room where we met the presence of three men among their cohorts. Upon our entrance I immediately locked eyes with the tall dark haired man. I may not have the names yet but I can already tell…. he is the one they call, Vladimir.

The girls motioned us to continue on and slowly followed suit as we were approached by the Prince's of Moscow's underside empire.

I stood tall in the center as my siblings and I approached, face to face with the three brothers. Standing before them we were each unmoving, his strong gaze, his eyes that reflected the life of centuries past. I very well say he has the strong demanding presence of a ruler, however so do I. I didn't waver in my returned sight, almost in a challenging manner as to who would be taking the first initiative to break this tension.

It wasn't long before I saw traces of a smile come to his face, I myself following suit when he held his arms out "Welcome to Moscow…"he spoke English in a heavy but clear accent.

He and his brothers paid us a slight bow with arms over their chests in respect. Exchanging a glance with Elijah, we followed suit, along with Rebekah.

"We thank you very much for this hospitable invitation" I smiled civilly.

"It is such a pleasure to have the Mikaelson siblings in my home." He nodded before gesturing him out "Allow me to formally introduce myself.. Vladimir Aleksandrovich…"

"Grand Prince of Moscow, patriarch of the Aleksandrovich family and the strigoi clan…" one of his legion finished the introduction.

"His brothers, Prince Maxim Aleksandrovich and Prince Feodor Aleksanrovich" he finished, to which they smiled boldly.

Those are quite some titles…

I say, quite misfortunate we do not have our own announcer….

Well unlike them, I don't need to brag… "Niklaus Mikaelson.." we shook hands "My siblings, Elijah Mikaelson and Rebekah Mikaelson. No introductions necessary on behalf of Marcellus and my brother Kol.."

"Such a day to go down in history…" Elijah proclaimed smoothly "Two ruling families, two originations of vampire species, meet to form an alliance." He linked hands with Feodor

"Indeed so, two sets of ruling siblings…" he added to Elijah's statement before motioning his hand back behind us.

"You've met two of our children" He signaled to them "Tatianna is my daughter. Theodora is one of Maxim's twins"

They smiled before nodding to Feodor over their next action, being tasked to carry on another role.

"A house full of girls" Rebekah noted sighing "that sounds so lovely.." her tone was actually quite honest. She craved the companionship of other women like herself yet often clashed with strong personalities with her stubbornness and jealousy. That's my little sister for you…

However with this… "Yes, however this does call to question" I faced Vladimir head on again… "where are the other daughters?" I smiled quite charmingly, however those who knew me understood my tone underneath…

Elijah patting my shoulder with a warning

A smile flashed its way across Vladimir's face "you mean, where is my Natalia… or as she's commonly known, Caroline"

I remained smiling though the urge to growl with my werewolf irises tempted me more strongly than I thought it would…

He obviously is aware that she knows us yet didn't send her to receive us…

"I'm quite sentimental about old friends…" a menacing tone threatening to peek through.

He chuckled, motioning us to sit down, a tray of glasses with brandy laid out…

"Yes my daughter has told us of your dear acquaintance" he poured the drinks "worry not Niklaus, she just stepped out with a gallant companion of hers earlier…"

I could feel the urge to growl again. Is that so?

How convenient… I may have moved forward with my life but this does not mean she has ceased to be of importance to me. I've always kept her unmentioned not only by a recluse character but for it is not the first time my enemies have used someone I care for as leverage…

I can tell this man is no fool…

"I'm sure they should arrive back anytime now.." he reassured, offing me a drink.

An exchanged glance, I could see very well he could be as conniving as I was…

"Let's hope so…" I could be perceived as a warning, as I accepted the glass and each of the us clinked glasses, my siblings with his.

We all sat ourselves around while their adherent excused themselves.

So much to be discussed..

"We've been told quite a many things, by Marcellus here and my brother. We have much of the general background story. Quite remarkable I must say" Elijah referred back to their history.

"Your kingdom was under a rattling for power during your originating era. Do elaborate your continued rule…" I suggested.

(A/N: I remind, this is very loosely based on history. The timelines won't be exact and the family is modeled after several historical families. Just remember this is fiction LOL)

Vladimir confirmed "It started with generations before us; we come from a long line of warriors, knights, conquerors, and we were always a titled noble family. Branching away from the rule of the Tatars, the Moscow region set its roots. We inherited the small town but my brothers and I established the principalities of the region and were placed upon the throne"

"If my history serves me correct, the grand duchy of Moscow would depict the rule of all of Russia itself in that age" Elijah noted.

Always sharp with cultures, we can recount the stories spreading of such struggles in those ages however it wasn't along where we resided in those times. During the 1300's I was at the peak of my humanity-less life, or well… one of the peaks anyway…

"Indeed, but giving rise to a Kingdom doesn't come smoothly. As Moscow broke away from the Mongol principality, we collaborated to annex the bequest, the prosperous rivers, forests and our land continued its expansion. Those times were very dark. Prosperity didn't take long to hit bloody attacks. As we began our families, the revolts broke out. Distant ethnic groups from the north joined with our rivals to claim the land for themselves" Maxim recalled the threatening event that were perhaps the cause of their decision.

"They murdered many of our people, some broke into the boundaries of our very homes. The lives of our children were in grave danger" Vladimir continued "Direct shots were made on my daughters, they succeeded on two of my wives over the years" he proclaimed.

Two of his wives? So these girls weren't fully related.

"My son was the eldest male, Vikenti" Maxim continued "He and my sister's son Ivan were very prominent fighters, the best Moscow had to offer. However one unfortunate night, just before we began formulating our spell, the revolts were able to overcome him." His tone had lowered considerably at the memory.

He isn't the only one to have to lose a son by the hands of an enemy. True how they were too my family but for Henrik's demise, I did blame them for centuries.

"His cousin would soon follow and even young Daniel, Feodor's only son, who had just started his trainings alongside our arms forces would fall short." He finished.

In desperate times all units are called to battle, men have always served as the warriors; especially during the middle ages.

"So it was just three Aleksandrovich men…" Rebekah questioned.

Vladimir affirmed with a sip of his drink "Fate only blessed me with daughters, though it's allowed me the fortune to say I've never lost a child, and I fashioned that spill to make sure things stayed that way"

Well isn't that quite a loving father? We share a common ground in that area, although just because he's introducing his daughters to us, it doesn't mean I'll be doing the same with mine. That's how ensured I'll always be of her protection. All my siblings and Marcel know not to mention her either.

"….and so you used your witch, or as you prefer warlock, abilities to cast a spell to preserve your families biological life essence making it compatible to combine with your immortality spell" I concluded.

"Quite so, we were the most prominent coven in the east during our time. Our daughters lived very unaware of our heritage, very sheltered princesses….At least as much as we were able too.." curious how he exchanged glances with his brothers on a known topic.

"When they became direct targets, we gifted them with portions of our powers yet it still didn't serve much without proper training. They could primarily be considered ordinary humans in their life but the translated portion would ensure their ability to manifest a fraction of magic once becoming immortal" he asserted, making his way up to the vast collection of books upon the walls.

"How did this magic react once done so…?" Elijah pried, meaning what were the consequences.

"Well as you know, such an atrocity would not go unpunished…" he motioned for Vladimir.

It was then I wise quite surprised to see Vladimir move up the wall…. entirely on his feet.

He walked up the walls as if on an ordinary plane stroll, completely defying the laws of gravity.

We ourselves as vampires have always possessed an incredible sense of agility and balance yet seeing Vladimir assemble books from the walls as if he were searching a flat surface on the ground did strike us as very moving.

He flashed open various books upon the table before us depicting spells.

"Sunlight rings, reflection rings…" he walked back down.

"And our very weakness to the now extinct, immortal plant that gave us life and could take it back…" yes, much like what we've done with the white oak tree.

However, Vladimir hold much in common with my father.

I have reason to believe Vladimir, like Mikael, would fashion some sort of way to keep them in check should it ever be necessary…

"Which immortal instrument was it…?" Rebekah inquired. Rejoining us he smiled to my sister.

"One long vanished from this earth…" how vague "We resurrected its frozen remains that still harbored cells of life, before finally disposing of it" he declared.

So it's gone for good? They seem positively certain…

"And how has your family faired over the centuries?" Elijah noted.

He was truly in favor of a friendship but I still have my doubts.

Feodor then stood and his brothers followed; they motioned for us to come along with them.

This turned into a tour as we were further introduced to the grounds, especially along the political archive, offices and meeting areas for the officials of Russia, not to mention the Kremlin's historical transformations with every ruler human that their family secretly worked alongside after their Reign over mortals.

Through the tsardoms, imperial age, soviet communism and revolutions they've kept their alliances among those to next come in power. It became necessary if the humans and growing strigoi population would be living amongst each other. This in turn was how they're kind now roam through tout the country with the purebloods as their leading monarch family.

I have to admit, I'm impressed. Over how recklessly we've fed and turned over the centuries, we've never thought to actually control our entire species in one location. The way these men have done so however, still makes the Slavic vampire population considerably smaller to our own.

"Killer's or not, you and your daughters have brought many benefits to this country. I understand living in the shadow's when it comes to the humans but why keep yourselves so hidden from the rest of the supernatural community." When we received word it was aweing how another predatory species walked this earth without us knowing. It seems the phrase that one never learns everything might certainly be true, even when one can live forever.

I crossed my arms for this explanation. Them keeping track of us felt very suspicious…

We had been guided to a dining room, where we were invited to dine before Vladimir would continue. I preferring to be mannered complied as did my siblings.

What better way to converse than over cuisine

"We kept tabs on every prominent supernatural settlement; but it was only to ensure our clans would never come close to a clash…" his voice sounded quite foreshadowing..

"We have many enemies…" Maxim added "Our deeds betrayed our warlock heritage and we were already severely punished for it but there are many who would seek to see we could never reach our full potential.."

"You see our daughters were not immediately turned. They were killed before they could finish the transition but it seemed fate cast a miracle over us…" Kol had mentioned this too.

"This I truthfully have no explanation for, but it appears our family was destined to be whole again as throughout the centuries we rediscovered the reincarnated forms of our daughters…" Vladimir proclaimed.

They have no idea how this came about? I honestly could not believe it either. Kol had discovered this part on his own when it was mentioned to him by one of the girls. I myself did not have any belief of the phenomena of reincarnation but if at all, it would be the only explanation on why Caroline could be here as one of the girls he's claiming is a daughter of his.

I exchanged glances with my siblings, truly noting the bizarre claim…

"How can you be sure its them and not simply girls who look alike…?" Elijah questioned.

"Because the soul restoration would not have worked to bring back their memories if these new girls were not their other half…" he smiled, very assured.

I continued my meal but kept firm in my mind that I would not believe this until I've seen solid proof.

"We lived in secret not only to keep our influence over Russia covered but if other beings discovered our search for our daughters, that an Aleksandrovich existed and would be turned into a magical creature of the night, many would ensure this never comes about. We are a threat to many others… you'd be surprised the monsters that roamed our lands in those ages…"

Other monsters?

Does he mean that literally or metaphorically?

Before we could continue on that, they declared until their family was together again, they would remain living in secret.

"But now the past is behind us, and we wish to move forward with our lives as a family, with our home and people. Much like you do…" Vladimir declared.

Finishing up our dinner we were escorted to our where we would be staying. They still had much to introduce us to therefore I'm not certain for how long the stay would be, I however was still very much growing unsettled.

We were told Caroline would arrive back yet there hasn't been any sighting of her, or any of the other daughters for that matter. They claimed it would properly be done in the morning yet I was very much reluctant to accept this. Not only am I jet lagged, I won't be satisfied until I confirm all this from her!

Our luggage had been taken into our own private quarters for the night. Elijah and my sister accepted courteously, despite knowing my impatience. I was about to call out to Vladimir over the course the night had taken when something came into my hearing range.

I picked up a far off voice in a distant direction of the halls.

If I do recall properly, it was beyond the courtyard entrance near the side of the estate. As my family was led on, I soon felt I recognized the harmonious sound and flashed in that direction, excusing myself.

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CPOV

"You're kidding, you were on that ship or are you just saying that to impress me?" I grinned, taking a sip of my wine.

"No I was really on the Titanic" he smirked cheekily "I was also involved in the Sputnik I launching, William Shakespeare wrote King Lear thanks to me, and I bedded the naughty little Marie Antoinette" he teased.

We both burst into laughter; I had to hold my hand over my mouth to keep from spilling my drink.

"Now I know your joking!" I nudged his arm playfully while tidying myself with my cloth napkin.

He nodded with a shrug, taking his fork to continue with his food "I was serious about my work with the space program in the 50's and 60's, though…" he defended.

He did work a lot with those developing industries so I believe him on that. We had been talking about some of our favorite movies so that's where the topic had sprung from.

"Well none the less, it's a thrilling history you've had…" It all sounded like a dream, so adventurous, so free…

I've only been a vampire for a little over a decade but I can't wait for the rest of my unending existence. I think Kris could tell by my faraway look with a smile. I couldn't help it…

Those are all things I want! The world is my oyster…

"It certainly is… but I have missed you.." I arched my brow at his flirty comment while he looked back at me with a smile.

He really was very nice. We have developed a friendship over these past few weeks but I'm pretty sure that's where things will stay for the time being. I smiled back. I still don't know how things ran between us in the past but I liked spending time with him.

He brought me to this really nice bistro with live music and a dim light setting that could look out into the city. We've just been talking and talking about the most random things, really connecting and he had done well to prove to me he know's how to have fun and enjoy himself. He's still a young handsome guy after all, of course he know's how to have fun. He's physically 29 for all eternity; he's hard working and efficient but there's still a free spirit lingering in him.

"So despite still being a very young vampire, how would you say things have gone for you since being reborn? Your human life sounded so much like those typical American youth movies.." we both laughed.

It really was; I have no idea how it made such a turn "I guess it was destiny carefully guiding me back to my roots" I smiled while our glasses received refills "My life made some turns I never anticipated. My career, where I live… my family" we locked eyes at that last notion.

The road was very rocky, none of those things came delicately but… in the end they all made things better. His smile was infectious and really made me feel the nostalgia of the reflection on my life.

"You were a very remarkable princess, you and your sisters faced so much and were very much unique for our time…" he noted lowly…

"…" I was about to respond when all of a sudden a white flash took over my eyes …

.

flashback

"You're not like many other princesses" I stopped my horse in its tracks to see Kristoff riding towards me.

"Hello, Lord Kristoff. What brings you to town..?"

"I was on my way to the estate to meet with your father…" I could tell between us, this was before we were engaged.

"With recent events it isn't safe for you out here.." he cautioned, making me roll my eyes with a smirk.

"It isn't safe for anyone. Until the enemy forces are pushed back, I've requested a unit of our guards reside within the town's limits. We protect our people, they don't protect us…" I asserted proudly.

He grinned, crossing his arms at my declaration to make this decision on my own.

"That headstrong character… you truly are an Aleksandrovich, yet remarkable in your own way…" he mused.

I huffed proudly "Now if you'll excuse me, I have my sister's wedding to continue organizing and if the exotic flower collections have yet to be imported, everyone shall be in for my wrath…" I waved my hair to strut away in my white stallion.

I could hear him burst into laughter behind me… "such a strange mix of personalities you have…"

Even I had to chuckled at my sense of concerns. One minute from life and death tactics to festivity designs…

"What's so funny…?" I returned to reality when Kris noted my giggling.

I shook my head "Nothing; I just have a feeling you've said something like that to me before…"

I was having a good night out. It was very much needed.

Kris and I had gone over so much; he always knew I had a concern for people which was why the blood bags and animal drinking weren't too surprising. He thought it was very unusual but none the less didn't judge me so long as I didn't judge his life's debauchery. Hey I used to live in New York, I've seen all kinds of stuff.

It wasn't long before we finished, time having escaped us it's best we head back to the Kremlin.

We zoomed our way through in the breezy night air before coming to the vast stone walkway leading up the side entrance.

It's nice to not always go places in a car. People have forgotten how enjoyable strolls and walks can be, although since I'm wearing pumps, my vampire speed doesn't hurt. I was in a black waist coat with a belt around the middle, kaki ankle pants with a black stripe along the side to accent the closed toe pumps and my hair was in its perfect spiral curls. It was a very fitting choice for the bistro we visited.

We continued to talk along the way, practicing a little with my power and talking over my earlier slip when I went out with Lily.

"Perhaps it is you that holds secret fairytale fantasies, not Liliana.." he teased.

Ok, maybe I shouldn't have mentioned the floating kiss thing… "I didn't know you had such a poetic side…" I playfully gave him a shove.

"Shut up… " we laughed "I think Lily's enthusiasm for fairytales really sent my mind spiraling…"

"I still don't know how I'm going to do at the audition but it blows my mind how much confidence she has in me.." Kicking at the pebbles along the ground, I can still see her adorable smile "I hope I don't disappoint her…"

"I don't think you could ever do that" he reassured before holding him arm out to stop our tracks. I turned to him

"But it doesn't hurt in getting a second opinion. I've seen my fair share of theater and opera over the ages…" he sat himself on the cement railings of the path. We were right outside the side courtyard entrance but no one was around.

I narrowed my eyes giving him a questioning look.

"…sing for me" he smiled.

"What?" I couldn't help but laugh in embarrassment at the request.

He didn't falter "I've heard you've done it out in public before…"

He had me there; I guess word about that producer spread on my first day here… Actually not just here, at the Mystic Grill too.

"Why not just for me…?" he dared with those charming eyes…

I paced around, debating this. I've never been the shy type or one to back down. It is a little nerve wrecking with him just here watching me but the rush in blood does get me pumped…

"Ok first of all, I'm not in opera; I'm just an actress who's barely beginning to explore musical theater…" I don't think I can reach those high ranges that opera singers have "I like singing but I still don't know how it's going to incorporate in my career so… go easy on me.."

I finally decided I'd do it…

What'll it be…?

Clearing my throat and taking a moment to decide on a verse of a song…

I guess I'll go with the current project…

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.

(I do not own A Change in Me from The Beauty and the Beast)

Following the sound, there wasn't a melody playing alongside it but it was singing without a doubt.

I could make out the words…

For in my dark despair

I slowly understood

My perfect world out there

Had disappeared for good

Those lyrics, I feel like I recognize them…

I was on the second floor but soon caught an opening that emitted the voice into the estate. It was coming from the outside.

But in its place I feel

A truer life begin

The voice continued and I soon flashed through the opening of a balcony and stepped out into the night. Coming to the railing I looked about the side courtyard entrance path and my eyes narrowed down to below where to figures stood.

It's so good and real

It must come from within

I saw a familiar set of blue eyes, golden hair and illuminating smile…

They stood before a male figure as an audience for the song

It was her….

Caroline…

And I- I never thought I'd leave behind

My childhood dreams but I don't mind…

She was singing….

Her voice never cracked nor faltered

It rose out at a very strong and charming pitch.

Astounding, in the time I knew her I had no idea she sang...

I'm where and who I want to be

No change of heart

A change in me

Her eyes had fallen closed

I now recognized the tune as that from the sweet French tale of Beauty and the Beast

Classic..

No change of heart

A change in me…..

She held out that note of the verse in a long and strong pitch that rang perfectly on key, vesting throughout the courtyard

I was awed by the small but lovely performance

The man standing before her looked on at her astounded and admiring…

Reopening her eyes to whimsically gasp for breath, she sounded a charismatic laugh and smiled his way

Suddenly a sense to be in his place came flooding through me…

There was always a strong light and beauty to this ordinary girl that drew me in; yet something always told me deep down she wasn't like anyone else I had ever met. Extraordinary was evident simply by her goodness, her cares, her strong persona, her heart…working alongside her lovely talents…

Recent events proved there was so much too her I didn't know…

I know not what has brought her here to Moscow but at least I know she's safe…

.

.

Kris started applauding so I take it as a job well done.

"You've definitely got the volume.." he teased.

I scoffed "Well all those years of cheerleading and bad guy fighting will do that for you…"

We both laughed..

"Your voice is beautiful…" he walked up to me, placing his hands on my shoulder. I looked up into his eyes feeling very proud by his word.

"Lily's not the only one who believes you'll get that roll.." his voice softened.

I dropped my eyes to the ground at the faltered smile I was holding in…

"Thank you for singing for me…" he motioned me to look back at him "you'll do great…"

I nodded in full determination "Thanks…"

Sharing a smile we turned to walk back inside…

Overall this has been a good day. With everything that's been going on lately, this is one heck of a life I've made here in Moscow.

I'm sure things are only going to get bigger and crazier from here but I'm ready for it…

I wonder what time it is?

He opened the door for me and we both walked in

"Did you enjoy our time out?" he shut the door behind us to enter the foyer…

"Yeah it was very…" I gasped softly under my breath.

I had looked us and at the bottom of the stair stood a figure.

Short tousles of light brown hair with blonde hues, blue eyes… an all too familiar face I wasn't sure I'd see again…

Standing tall in a casual black attire he stood…

Kris had stopped to stare back at him as well…

He was expressionless, but he was clearly looking straight back at me. I don't know how much time passed while I was at a loss for words, but I had known all day that he would come…

"Klaus…" I voiced, still frozen while we stared back at each other…

Saying that… it wasn't long until the happenings of an infectious grin came across his face and suddenly it was as if I had been spiraled back to the last time we had seen each other, that being part of the reason I was so unsure how to react.

"…its been quite some time…Caroline" he mused in that familiar annoying yet…charming tone.

We still hadn't broken eye contact but I wasn't looking back at his hostilely or expression less either, infect there were signs of a very small smile pushing to appear on my face. This because, it was actually nice to see him again…

I can't believe what I'm feeling but there was actually a tiny part of me that had missed this… awful.. person…

"You must be the Original Hybrid, Klaus Mikaelson" Kris deducted from beside me. It had actually slipped my mind that he was still here with us… "Welcome to Moscow"

From our eyes that were still lock, Klaus still hadn't paid him mind, ignoring him for a few silent moments he finally gave a look to Kris..

"How could I decline such a gracious invitation…" he turned back to me and walked forward slightly "I was surprised to see my friend was not the one to receive us in her new home…" he teased before shooting Kris a look "Do you mind allowing us to get reacquainted, mate…" he hinted for him to go.

I'll admit that did come across rather rudely.

Kris simply looked to me for my input, but I think leaving us for a moment would probably be the best thing too…

"Uh, Kris" I turned to him "could we talk later? I'll see you with the others tomorrow…" I motioned for him that it was what I preferred right now... "Tonight was fun…" I smiled.

He seemed a little reluctant to go but smiled back none the less when I asked it of him.

Hesitantly, he made his leave and so it was just Klaus and I again.

After he disappear, I turned back to face him when I suddenly looked up to realize he was right up in front of me this time. He was now up close it got me shaky over the last time we had been this up close…

He wasn't smirking anymore but it genuinely looked like he had been anticipating talking to me one on one…

He had noted where I'd been earlier "Er- uh, I was told you were coming… It happened so suddenly and I wasn't sure when you'd get here…"

"The news came so suddenly to us as well…" he relayed. The way I felt him look me over gave me shivers.

Argh, get a hold of yourself, Caroline…

I admit I was doing the same thing just a little earlier but I couldn't help it…

Sighing, he stood firm to look down at me as if he was finally going to come out with it…

"How did you get here, Caroline? Why are you here with these people who claim to be your family…?"

I couldn't help but shrug "Because they are, Klaus" he cocked his head at this.

I stepped back from our proximity to pace as I retold these past few weeks "I was here for work in the Bolshoi theater; I'm an actress now" his eyes somewhat narrowed and he shot a half smile at this mention.

"On my first night here, some of the slavic vampire's found me and brought me to Vladimir. I was recounted my past history with them" I sighed, not sure if he's heard all our background info yet.

He nodded for me to go on "and I found it to be true when I let them restore my memory…"

He walked back close to me again, he lifted his hand to hold me by the side of my jaw. My eyes clearly widened at this action, he looked like he was concerned….

"Are you sure…?" I cocked my head a little but nodded while taking his hand down.

"You are from Mystic Falls, Caroline. These people sounded quite dubious; learing you were here I was concerned…" my blood somewhat raced at this, I had to look down before I stuttered out at this…

Composing myself I did look back in reassurance "I was once called Natalia, Klaus. I remember them and their my family.." I stated firmly in their defense "It was all a misunderstanding and theirs nothing that you need to be concerned about here"

Locking eyes again, the somerness seemed to melt away as he nodded, glancing around before turning back to me "I always knew there was something special about you" he mused, I couldn't help but smile.

Strutting towards me again, I didn't back away this time, feeling that familiar whimsical atmosphere the two of us have been in before…

His signature charming smile took over his face again "…it's a pleasure to be in the presence of such a remarkable empress then… Princess Caroline" he teased.

Biting my lip at the title I suddenly felt I was held forward. Feeling hands on both my upper arms, I felt myself suddenly close to Klaus. His chin rested against my forehead "I've missed you…" I heard him whisper, unconsciously exciting me.

All of a sudden, a rumbling was heard all around us. It wasn't the ground but suddenly everything in the room was shaking.

Oh no not now!

Suddenly all the furniture in the room flashed into the air, thrown up by the invisible forces that were emitting from me!

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MAN THAT WAS LONG! WHAT DID YOU THINK?

I FELT LIKE SOME PARTS WERE SOMEWHAT RUSHED BAD MAN WAS I EAGER TO UPDATE. I need honest reviews guys, don't be afraid to be a constructive critic on my story.

I hope you guys liked it!

More KLAROLINE next chapter! We see more of them together, her control over her telekinesis, and Caroline meets her last sister!

STAY TUNED!