A/N: So here we are: the end of the beginning! So sorry for the delay in getting it up guys, I was a lead role in a huge musical – between that and school, no energy or muse! In the mean time, I saw Ubi was nominated for 'Best Action/Adventure Fiction' and 'Most Unique Fiction' in the Klaroline awards! Though I it didn't make the cut, I was so touched by you guys getting it recognised! Thank you so, so much! This last chapter is utterly for you. Enjoy! And please sound off your thoughts in the box below if you have the time! Xxx [Final author's note at the end]
36. Initium
"We pass through the present with our eyes blindfolded. We are permitted merely to sense and guess at what we are actually experiencing. Only later when the cloth is untied can we glance at the past and find out what we have experienced and what meaning it has."
– Milan Kundera
He was humming. She could feel the vibration of music through his naked body against hers; she could feel the draft of breath against her hair. One hand was buried in her blond locks, and the other, trailed hieroglyphic patterns on her back. She was content to forever lie in his arms, and never leave.
But the world would – at some stage – inevitably drag them out of bed.
"What are you humming?" Caroline mumbled against his chest, deciding to actively enjoy his company while she still had him to herself.
"'Come Live With Me'," he murmured, pressing a kiss into her hair. "A traditional song from the Seventeenth Century."
"Sing it for me." Her fingers played on his chest.
He laughed. "Let me spare your ears; I'm a terrible singer."
"I doubt it."
"No – this, my love, I assure you without being modest; it would ruin the moment." When he felt her scrunching her face unfavourably, he teased her hair, and breathed into it: "Come live with me and be my love, And we will all the pleasures prove That hill and valley, dale and field, And all the craggy mountains yield."
"So the world will bend to our will?" Caroline deciphered, rolling her eyes.
"It will."
"Should we assume to have so much power?" She whispered almost inaudibly; the jest was gone; she almost looked afraid.
"Hate Isis as we both do, she gave you great power," Klaus murmured. "You have not even yet grasped the extremity of that. But you will. And I will be by your side as you do."
Her fingers trailed to his neck as she lifted her head, holding his eyes. "I'm glad you said that."
He furrowed a brow. "Why wouldn't I?"
"You could have said 'I'll be right behind you' – but you didn't; by my side is where I want you; we're equals, you and I," Caroline responded – almost shocked by her own perceptiveness. "When I do face the world, I want them to know that it's the both of us; that it's not just me." One of her hands flattened, and trailed to rest above his heart. "You wanted to be king, and I'm giving it to you, love – and you're not just going to be king of New Orléans. You have the world." Smirk jumping onto her lips, she reached up and tapped him lightly on the cheek – then taking his chin, and drawing his face to hers. "And don't you forget it."
Klaus eyes shifted both in challenge and curiosity.
"But...I've seen what power does to you," Caroline whispered, eyes diverting, "how it makes you feel – how it makes you act. Now that you have it...you have to swear to me it won't consume you."
"You, my love, are pure power; and you consume me," he answered, palms curling on her sides, and running down her waist.
Biting back a response so that she could enjoy his touch, she then snaked an arm beneath his body and the mattress, urging him to flip her beneath him.
He did, and then lowered to her, lips descending on hers in a hot gasp – kissing her sensually, passionately, relentlessly, until she was breathless.
Arms hooked around his neck, she rolled her head back to expose hers to him.
His hand coursed down her side, and he began to drag his lips on her throat–
But someone burst in.
In a fumble of blankets and limbs, Caroline pushed Klaus off her, and drew the covers to her chin. Klaus, however, took his time facing their intruder – making it very clear that he would have continued, had his temptress not shoved him off.
"Stefan," Klaus growled irately as he sat up.
The Salvatore held up a finger in defence, and took up the remote from a coffee table beneath the wall-hung television. "You're going to want to see this." He turned it to a national broadcast.
Caroline leant forward, goose-bumps spreading across her skin. Beside the news-anchor, screened footage of a woman addressing world-leaders: Isis – and behind her, Klaus grimly stood.
"...after footage from the classified press conference leaked internationally," the man reported – and Caroline felt as though his gaze bore through to her, and her alone. As if the address were directed to her; accusatory, and condemning. "Rioting factions have risen and began to voice the concern we're all thinking; can our countries defend us anymore? With supernaturals roaming among us; infiltrating and corrupting ever corner of this earth? Many supernaturals have already risen and asserted authority over our species, making stances–" Caroline jaw fell slack, as she took in the shaky footage of supernaturals brutally subjugating civillians; not just in America. The screen labelled the locations; Asia, the Russian Federation, across Europe, The Middle East, throughout the Pacific.
Her head spun and her stomach churned sickly.
She felt Klaus' hand rest between her shoulder-blades, rubbing gentle circles.
The next montage revealed communities rallying with stakes, silver and anti-signage.
"Idiots," Klaus muttered. "Silver doesn't even work; if a television show is their only reference for defence, they have every reason to be worried."
"Klaus," Stefan cautioned, though his eyes were still glued to the screen.
"Many have began to fear the resource this could provide for terrorist movements; there has already been speculation that parties against the United States are beginning to unite over this new breed of soldiers. In a world that is quickly spiraling out of control – and will only continue to – the ultimate question is clear; in this dangerous new reality, quite possibly domineered by the feared and merciless 'Isis' – where does a new order lie? Will there even be one? Will her power grow by recruiting our enemies? These are the questions the citizens ask; the questions we can only hope to have answered in our favour." The anchor concluded.
Stefan pressed the mute button.
"What a fucking mess," Klaus muttered, eyes travelling to Caroline – whose eyes were still on the screen. He looked to Stefan once more. "But humans are a weak race; they never had the mental capacity to process a reality beyond their mundane own."
"So how do we get through to them?" Stefan dropped the remote, and folded his arms across his chest. "They all think Caroline is the enemy; perhaps it's best we keep her out of the public eye for the time being until things simmer down."
"If they simmer down." Klaus rubbed a hand across his face, and went to speak again – but Caroline cut him off.
"No; no hiding," she intercepted. "If I'm the problem, I'm the solution. I need to go to them; they need to know I'm on their side – that I'm not her."
"Caroline, worldwide governments are scared and angry; they're resourceful enough to try to take you down," Klaus protested. "So until–"
"No, Klaus – this is exactly why I need to face them now," she interrupted determinedly, eyes locking directly ahead. "I need to see the President of the United States, and you can either come with me, or stay here;...it's your choice."
Stefan and Klaus looked to one another in defeat.
– TVD –
"You just got home," Katherine vetoed, setting down her smoothie.
Caroline sighed, sizing up one of the doppelgänger's tops, before chucking it into the carry-on. She was already wearing one of her shirts, and Rebekah's jeans and shoes. "It'll be two days maximum – and it needs to be done." She covered her face with her hands, and let out a tired sigh. "Why do I have to fight everyone on this? I'm trying to do the right thing – and I didn't ask to be queen of the fucking world, so I think despite all odds I'm acting prudently!"
Katherine pursed her lips and smirked at the curse.
"What?" Caroline growled.
"That's my girl," Katherine rewarded.
"My girl," Klaus claimed from the doorway, striding to the bed. "Are you ready, love?"
Caroline glanced down at the suitcase, before roughly tugging its zip around. Taking it up, she strode to the door. "Let's do this."
Marcel waited for them at the front of the Compound, in Klaus' Rover – and drove them to the private airport. Caroline observed him the whole time; the tense set of his jaw, the way his hands clenched the wheel – the minimal conversation. And she pitied him.
He'd had his empire stripped from him, and he'd been powerless to stop it. The world was lapsing into an apocalyptic reality, and he had no choice.
Overcome with the weight of such thoughts, Caroline massaged her temples and let out a short sigh. Almost immediately in response, Klaus took her hand as it fell and began running caressing circles into her palm with his thumb.
Within half an hour, they'd boarded the plane, and were in the air.
"You'll have to help yourself to refreshments throughout the flight," Marco told them, after Caroline questioned Annabel's absence.
She looked to Klaus.
"She's at Wittington, in Mystic Falls," he answered simply. "Enrolled in school with little Gilbert, I believe."
"Good." Caroline's eyes drifted out the window. "She doesn't need to get caught up in this." She paused, catching his gaze with solemnity as a thought, and proceeding idea struck her. "And neither does your brother."
She didn't have to specify.
Klaus raked his bottom lip through his teeth.
Caroline was right.
"But who do we send him away with?" Klaus sighed. "Who do we send him to?"
His girlfriend pursed her lips. "Jenna and Alaric are looking for a house, because Elena burnt theirs down; they're living at the Salvatore Boarding house at the moment, with Jeremy."
Klaus' eyes narrowed in pleasant interest. "...And?"
"Annabel's not quite old enough to be on her own."
"She's done it before."
"But that doesn't mean she has to."
Klaus leant towards Caroline. "Do continue."
"Why don't we rent the mansion to Alaric and Jenna – for a very low fee, because we don't need the money – and in turn, Annabel will have someone to live with, Jeremy will have a 'home', and Henrik will be surrounded by two older 'siblings' and guardians? Out of this city while its a mess, and–"
His lips where pursed, eyes round with adoration.
"What?" She teased.
"You said 'we don't need the money'."
She rolled her eyes. "Are you going to get emotional every time I do that?"
"Until it ceases to surprise me that someone loves me and cares enough to share their life with me."
She swatted him lightly on the arm. "We've been through this; no undervaluing yourself. Your deserve to love and be loved just as much as anyone does."
He reached out, hand cupping the side of her face as he drew her lips to his for a singular, tender kiss.
When he drew back – though she'd obviously convinced him with regards to Henrik, it didn't prevent him from then responding with, "Mystic Falls has plenty of problems."
"But Alaric is an Original. Jenna is a vampire. Jeremy is a Hunter – and Annabel's very resourceful–"
"Are you forgetting all this business Silas?"
"We'll get to the bottom of it, after we've dealt with this." She motioned around herself – implying their current predicament. "One thing we all need to remember though, is that there's one of him, and plenty of us; I can protect you all from his influence, and we've got Davina on our side, who is in favour with the spirits. We'll find a way to put him down, and until then, he won't go anywhere near Mystic Falls – he'll be coming here for Katherine, anyway. If anything happens, it will probably go down on our doorstep."
Klaus seemed to be suppressing his pride for her; a smile crept on his lips.
Caroline leant back into her seat. "Besides; that sort of small-town life would be really good for him. And after I brought Jenna and Alaric back from the dead...I think they'd agree to it."
Though naturally torn about sending his brother away after just getting him back – Klaus submitted, and glanced at his watch. "We have two hours left on this flight; why don't you pitch it to them, and I'll pitch it to Annabel?"
"We're at altitude; no phones."
Klaus stood. "Follow me, love."
He led her to the cockpit, where a line was located.
She unhinged it, and grinned at him.
"Thank you," he murmured.
"They haven't agreed yet," she chuckled.
"No," he murmured. "For caring about them; my family."
"They're mine too, now," she whispered.
Klaus pressed his lips to her forehead, and disappeared back into the cabin.
Taking a deep breath, Caroline found Alaric's number on her phone, and copied it into the receiver she held.
– TVD –
Katherine winced as she fastened the clips of her bra, hand coming to gently probe the tender flesh of her breast, before moving towards the closet. Pausing before a mirror as she passed, she turned to the side. From front on, it wasn't obvious – but standing as she was, a definitive swell was beginning between her hips. Closing her eyes, and absently caressing the small life, she didn't hear him enter – didn't acknowledge him, until his hands rested atop hers, and his chin came to rest on her shoulder.
"I wish you were round with my child," he whispered ruefully.
"I am." Feeling his hesitance, she turned in his arms, reaching up and cupping his face. "He'll grow up with you as his father, and I wouldn't want it any other way."
"He?" Elijah whispered, a vulnerable smile gracing his lips.
"Not confirmed – but I just know it," she responded, mouth lifting too. "I can feel it."
"Well if you get dressed now, and don't miss your appointment, you'll know for sure."
She kissed him lightly, before leaving his arms, and selecting a pair of dark jeans, and a black long-sleeve top. Then pulling on a pair of heeled ankle boots, she accepted Elijah's outstretched arm.
"Does this mean I get a say in names?" Elijah wondered as the descended the stairs.
"You would probably have a better idea than I," Katherine honestly admitted. "I'm not good at this thing – remember?"
"It's time you started putting a little more faith in yourself."
"How, when I've only put myself first for five centuries?" She scoffed helplessly – though the genuine fear was evident in her eyes. "I mean look at me – I'm just going to let him down–"
The Original gently pulled her to a halt. "You won't."
"How can you possibly know that?" She demanded, serious – fear filling her eyes.
"Because Katherine Pierce is a facade," Elijah reassured her with certainty. "She's part of you, but she doesn't have to determine who you are." He caressed her cheek. "I fell in love with Katerina Petrova, and she's in there – she's here before me right now. Katherine Pierce wouldn't have worried about being a bad mother, but Katerina would."
Katherine's shoulders drooped slightly, and she smiled softly – before regaining composure a moment later and declaring, "I like Katherine's fashion and sass better though. That's not gonna change."
"I would despair if it did," he jested in response, leading her down the rest of the stairs. Upon reaching the garage, his chest-pocket vibrated, and he cocked a brow in question, withdrawing it.
"Who is it?" Katherine opened the passenger door, and paused by it.
"Niklaus," the older Original responded. "They've landed in D.C."
– TVD –
"How much time do we have?" Caroline asked as she kicked off her flats and began to unbutton her jeans.
"Half an hour," Klaus responded calmly, unbuttoning his shirt. "Don't stress; we've got plenty of time."
Caroline turned to face him, pausing – then murmuring coyly, "For what?" She rolled down her jeans, and tossed them on the bed.
Klaus groaned, disappointment colouring his features. "Not for that."
She chuckled. "I know. Just pulling your leg."
He cocked an eyebrow disapprovingly.
She pulled her shirt over her head, and fished out one of Katherine's skirts – a black skater – and then a white blouse Rebekah had leant her, who had also sent someone to buy her underwear and bras that morning (they hadn't had time to return to the Plantation House before their departure). As she was the same shoe-size as the Original, she'd also borrowed a pair of black pumps. "You know, the over-achiever I was–" she mused, pulling on the shirt and buttoning it up, "as a little girl I always wanted to meet the President. Guess I'm finally getting what I wanted." She stepped into the skirt, and brought it up to her waist – scrunching her nose. "Never thought it'd be like this, though."
"We are, each of us, a long way from what we wanted as children," Klaus conceded, coming to her side – now donned in charcoal suit-pants, a light-blue buttoned shirt. A navy and white stripe tie was slung around his neck. His hands came to the zip on her skirt, and he did it up for her.
There was a car waiting for them at the front entry of the hotel, that took them directly – not to The White House, as they'd expected – but a great, modern building, where thousands milled around the entry, either in protest or out of curiosity.
Caroline's heart plunged into her throat, and it only settled a beat as Klaus gripped her hand firmly in support.
When Klaus had contacted the President and various security services that morning through a family consultant, he'd been forewarned of such a response from the public. And as his eyes drifted to his girlfriend, he wondered how she would handle it. Though she was clearly distressed, she was determined.
They were guided into a large chamber – where hundreds stood before them, cameras trained, phones and recording devices on hand, pens poised above notepads.
The President, however, was nowhere to be seen.
"He lied," Caroline whispered. "It's a publicity trap; why?"
"I don't know," Klaus responded under his voice – and though his face betrayed no unrest, she could sense is fury and irritation.
On of the heavily armed soldiers stepped forward, and motioned to the podium.
"What do I do?" She looked to Klaus.
"Address them like the Queen you are." He stepped forward, and kissed her on the cheek.
"That's it? That's all you have for me?"
His hand found hers. "And belief, in you; that you can do this. Show them who you are, love. That you are to be understood, trusted, respected – and not feared, but approached with caution."
She bit her lip, and nodded – eyes drifting to the people.
She took her place.
"I...know that you probably have a lot of questions." Caroline gripped the sides of the podium. "When I came here, I wasn't expecting an address...not with cameras, not with interviewers; I thought I was coming to speak to a...much smaller group. So...this isn't limited to national security now; it's personal – and what I say now, has to bear weight to all of you; it has to mean something, and it has to give you hope." She swallowed hard, and her eyes flickered back to Klaus.
Like he always had – and like he would forevermore continue to do – he gave her the support she needed.
"My name is Caroline Forbes," she began. "I am the sole child of William Forbes, and Elizabeth Forbes. I was born in Mystic Falls, Virginia; like generations of my family before me, I grew up there. My mother is the Sheriff, and I attended the local high-school, where I was the president of just about every committee and the Captain of the Cheer Squad. In 2009, I had my first encounter with a vampire – who used mind compulsion on me, and abused me. The following year, I was involved in a car accident, and nearly died as a result of internal bleeding – but I was healed with vampire blood, and then, subsequently killed by my friend's enemy as means of 'getting back' at them. I came back to life a vampire. I had no choice; I was scared, and had no idea what happening to me. So...why am I telling you all of this?" She blew out out a steadying breath as her eyes scanned the audience. "Because I was normal; I was just like you – just like everyone. And like the thousands of other supernaturals out there, I didn't have a choice. But I stand before you now, a better person because of what I have had to go through; because I had to accept what had happened to me, and adapt. A year ago, Isis began screwing with my life; but she'd been keeping an eye on me a lot longer than that. Isis, was four-thousands year old; a queen, banished to purgatory for betraying her husband, in another realm. Her superior race were known as 'daemons' – Google it, if you will; but long-story-short, I am now an immortal with the attributes of what your ancestors called 'deities', and I possess the abilities of a sorceress. And I get it; this is the stuff of stories; there is no way this could be real; there a not other realms out there – we are the only planet with beings on it, and an order – we are the only ones in this universe. We are not naive, we a never wrong, or blinded by our own beliefs, right? Because it's just not possible." She rolled her shoulders backwards, letting out a determined breath. "But it's also not possible that vampires, werewolves, witches, doppelgängers and witches could exist either, right?" She paused, collecting herself, blood pounding loudly in her ears. "Humans are creatures of habit, and our society has absolutely blockaded anything out of the 'norm'; but that needs to change now; you need to believe, and you need to pull your introverted heads out of the sand; because it's not going to go away."
Her eyes flickered back to Klaus – and his aurora of encouragement wavered towards her once more, enthralled by her presence and power of the room of people before her.
"The world you once knew isn't completely gone," she continued, gaze travelling back to her audience. "I know it'll never be the same – and we can't expect you to suddenly be okay with that, it'll take time. But we can make it work."
"How, when you've declared war on us?" A reporter fired.
"I've already established that I'm not Isis," Caroline tried to extinguish. "She was possessing me, we defeated her–"
But, like guard-dogs set on an intruder – they relentlessly flung and lashed at her all at once, and blur of shouts and angry protests.
"Only a few days ago, you were threatening our very existence!"
"How can we trust you?"
"Look what you've done!"
"Burn the witch!"
"You're a heretic!"
"A monster!"
"You've thrown this world into disrepute!"
"You've ruined us!"
"You're a liar, trying to cover for yourself–"
"Stop!" Caroline roared, throwing her arms in front of her.
The atmosphere of the room escalated to a chaos of flying papers and wind; the doors flung open, and banged against the walls, their hinges screeching and groaning in protest. Everyone crouched, shielding their heads – and the cameramen trained their lenses on the spokeswoman before them.
All voices died, eyes on Caroline.
And as they did, the daemon lowered her hands.
"I'm not declaring war on humanity," Caroline stressed, chest heaving – eyes desperate, countenance upset. "I'm not Isis. I'm not some vengeful, deranged queen; I'm not four-thousand years old; I'm nineteen. And I know that doesn't make you feel any better; after all, how the hell could a kid like me possibly maintain an order?" She paused, taking deep breath. "But that's just it; I was born into this world; in this time; I know our history – I know you. But I also know them now too. I have the power forge an understanding between all species." She gripped the podium so tightly her knuckles whitened, and she felt the metal beginning to dint beneath her strength. "I am not Isis," she reiterated. "But I do possess all of her power now – and I can control it; better, wield it. So while my age won't earn any respect amongst you, the sort of person that I am, and further still, the power I do possess should earn your trust; I don't expect it to simultaneously happen – that woman inhabited my body twenty-four hours ago; she stood before you all, and threatened you. I hated her too; she ruined my life; if it weren't for her, none of this would have happened. I am not your enemy in this; I'm your ally. I am not her." She let go of the podium, stepping aside, and coming downstage. "I never wanted any of this, just like you guys didn't want any of us: but now I do have that power, and you are aware of us; nothing's going to change that. So, similarly to me getting used to my power, and accepting it – you will have to do the same with regards to us – because that's just the way it is; you're going to have to deal with it. There is no exterminating or disposing of us; we've always lived among you: only now, are you experiencing the ramifications of four-thousand years of silence; of secrecy." She squared her shoulders. "Coexisting will be difficult; I don't expect any less – this world is falling apart. But I stand united with you to pull it back on its feet." She reached back, and felt a wave of relief spread through her chest when Klaus clutched her fingers. "We stand united with you to pull it back on its feet. And you can either except that, or drown in denial. It's your choice."
She stepped back from the podium, and beckoned Klaus with her eyes, making for the doors. Bringing her palms together, flat in front of her, she swept them to the sides; the doors flew open, and their guards stepped aside.
"Now," she called, as Klaus caught up to her, and they left the bustle of the room behind – and a members of the President's circle approached her, "I want to speak to the President."
– TVD –
"Why are you sending me away?" Henrik stared dejectedly at the suitcase his older sister packed before him.
It had been arranged a couple of hours prior, and they weren't going to waste any time.
Rebekah paused, and turned to him. "It's not that we don't love you, lamb." She stepped forward, and ruffled his hair. "It's because we do, that we've decided on it – to give you your best chance, and to give you the chance to have a quieter, more normal life." She moved away from him, and zipped up the suitcase. "Mystic Falls was your home once, too; it's only right that you go back there, and go to school; that you're with other children your age."
A knock on the door demanded their attention.
Kol stood at the doorframe, arms folded across his chest. "Are you ready to go little brother?"
"Are you offering to drive him?" Rebekah cocked an eyebrow.
"No; that responsibility still falls to you," Kol chuckled. "I have a woman warming my bed that I'd despair to leave." He cast a glance over his shoulder, overflowing with cheek.
"Kol," the Original sister chided.
The accused placed both of his hands up defensively, chuckling. "I'm not going to be around when that sort of brotherly guidance counts; might as well get in while I can."
Henrik frowned. "I don't really understand–"
"You don't need to." Rebekah covered his ears, and directed at Kol – "Fuck off." She dropped them. "Come on Henrik, let's get going."
"Elijah and Katherine are downstairs." Kol stepped away, letting them pass – and as Rebekah did, he snuck in, "And don't make this out to be a dutiful chore; you and I both know you want to see that soppy Quarter-back."
"Is that judgement?" Rebekah snorted. "Since when are you protective, brother?"
"I'm not; it's just tiring watching you fall into the same calamities with the male species; I'm doing this family a favour."
"You're one to talk! When have you ever had a successful relationship – in fact, one at all?" She fired back – quickly adding, with an upheld finger, "and you're delusional if you think Bonnie actually cares about you the way you do her."
"You say as she lies in my bed wearing my shirt; give it time; she'll be all over me." He shrugged, brushing off her spite. "But Matt won't be all over you; neither will Marcel completely dedicate himself to you over power – and neither will Stefan love you devotedly like the Gilbert wench. Don't waist your time – s'all I'm saying."
"Since when do you care?" Rebekah responded through gritted teeth, offended – but only because what he said was the truth.
"Any concern for you is biologically engrained," he responded – striding forwards, to Henrik. "And my sympathy won't last, sister; so if I were you, I wouldn't make waste of my wisdom."
Rebekah halted, caught by his observations – momentarily recalling what he'd said; considering it. After a long moment, she sighed, cast it aside, and caught up to her brothers.
– TVD –
"That was quite an impressive address," the President complimented – from his post, behind his desk, in his Oval Office.
The Caroline of her past have gawked at having a private audience with the man before her, or at the famed room she presently sat in. But she was past such trivial things – and even more so now; as she'd made that speech, the extremity of her power – of just how much she had – had completely realigned her perspective.
"Thank you," she cordially responded, eyes locked on his – before looking about herself, at the room only they occupied. "It's a shame you weren't there to see it. Why weren't you there? Why was it a roomful of people we met, and not you?"
"Truthfully, I was engaged in a very important meeting; we needed a distraction, so the people weren't focussed on us – and they needed to know that you weren't her. Besides, what I gained from my conference was integral for this meeting between you and I to go forward. Though it may not seem it, I acted with logical purpose."
Caroline's eyes fell to her lap, and she nodded. "I understand." She dropped her voice, soft with sincerity and question, as her eyes lifted, "You took a risk – agreeing to see me without your guards; to see me on my own. Why?"
"The same reason you wanted to see me today," he responded, holding her gaze.
She cocked an eyebrow. "You wanted to prove that I don't have to be scared of you?"
"I'm a very powerful person, Miss Forbes. I want you to see me as an ally – not a threat," he revealed.
"An ally?" Caroline wondered. "This isn't a war."
"Isn't it?" The President leant forward on his forearms. "In light of everything that has happened, we have a proposition for you; rather, a request."
She tilted her head in interest. "Proceed."
"Legend has it, that supernatural beings weren't from our world to begin with." From beside him, he drew a large, ancient volume. "They were exiled here, as a consequence of radical movements and treachery against the crown. Four thousand years ago."
Caroline's breath hitched in her throat.
"Yes, you know this story – don't you?" The President's eyes fixated on her in wonder. "It's your story. Anyhow, the legend speaks of the day when a daemon – unspecific with regards to which circumstances it should arrive or be created under – would deliver the supernaturals from their sentence, and return them to their homeland, but more importantly, deliver the humans from their oppression."
"How do you know all of this?" Caroline whispered.
The President leant forward again. "The very city you live in has a faction that is aware of and tolerates the supernatural species. If important leaders of a city could know about your existence prior to Isis' revelation, wouldn't it be logical to assume powers far higher up have always known, but chosen to conceal it from the people, to preserve this world?"
"So to an extent, you've always been anticipating this day of revelation," Caroline surmised.
"Yes; but we've had multiple response scenarios for the different ways this could have gone. When Isis emerged, we started digging – and we found a solution."
"And what is your plan?" It was Caroline's turn to determinedly lean forwards in her seat. "What is the 'request'?"
The President didn't embellish it; his countenance was suddenly serious; before her, sat the leader of the country. Not a negotiator; it was clear, that his next words were irrefutable. "We want you to take them all back."
Caroline felt an ice spread through the very core of her being. "...Take them back where?" She asked slowly, articulately.
He opened the volume, and slammed it down in front of her. "To Daeponheim."
– TVD –
"Are you going to tell me what else he said?" Klaus reached for the wine bottle again; he'd pinned her attitude on exhaustion, for her responses had been slow and minimal.
Shoes discarded and shirt unbuttoned to her bra, Caroline lay splayed on her tummy, in the centre of their hotel bed. "I've told you what happened," she mumbled into the duvet, swallowing thickly. She couldn't tell him the truth; not only would he revolt before she could have a chance to explain the conclusion she'd later come to. Not when his awareness could thwart the whole plan. What had transpired between her, and the President, after he'd made his request, was never supposed to leave that room. Because it was, to an extent, a sort of conspiracy – and she couldn't have Klaus unknowingly messing that up. "He just wanted the truth. And to make peace." Lying made her feel sick, and she knew, had he been looking at her – he would have seen it. He always did. Because he knew her better than anyone.
Which was why she'd opted for the bed; concealment.
But even without physical indicators, Klaus wasn't buying it. Draining his glass and put it down – he came to her side.
Caroline didn't stir as the mattress shifted under his weight.
"Love."
"Mmm."
"You're telling me, the most important man in the country requests a private audience, and has nothing else to say to you but that?"
"That's what I'm saying."
"Caroline."
"Mmm."
"Look at me, and stop lying to me."
She opened an eye – her stare briefly sweeping over him a moment, before she rolled onto her back. "It's complicated," she sighed, fighting the tightness in her throat. "It really is. I can't..."
"Not good enough. Why are you–"
Her eyes shot to his, holding them in a sort of fear. "Because I don't want this; I don't want this responsibility. I am nineteen years old. I should be going to fucking college, not being made responsible for the seven-odd trillion in this world," she croaked, eyes filling. "I'm not strong enough to do what he's asked. To be in control; to help."
"Strong enough to do what?" Klaus whispered, and when she didn't answer, he probed, "Rule?" He reached out, brushing her hair from her face. "Don't be scared love; I know this isn't what you wanted, but it's the card you've been dealt, and you're not in it alone." He brushed her hair from her face. "Listen to me: all your life prior to this, you were undervalued; you were second best; you were the small-town girl. You were simply human. As for not being capable of leadership – understand this; a person, such as yourself, that hasn't known greatness, or power all their lives, has a respect for it, and knows the value of strength, and knows compassion. And you now do; you know what it is to be beaten – to be frightened, to be backed into a corner; but you now also know courage, resilience and true goodness. You will do good by these people, because it's who you are; it's who you've become. And you will excel at it, because you're Caroline Forbes – and excelling is what she does best." He thumbed away creeping moisture leaking from her eyes. "You've had to believe in so much; in the truth, in 's time you really believed in yourself."
Her streaming tears broke into a sob. She didn't deserve his kindness – she didn't deserve the faith of her people. Because she was going to betray them all.
"Love," Klaus sorrily murmured, lifting her off the mattress, into his arms.
It incapacitated her. It made her heart wrench. Hard to breathe. Vision, blurred.
God. I'm so sorry. Selfishly, she fell into his embrace. I'm so sorry.
"I really do love you so, so much," she whispered, feeling him smile against her head.
"I know," he responded in kind, but his voice betrayed wariness.
"No matter what happens," she breathed, drawing back from him, catching his gaze. "Hold onto that."
He furrowed a brow, and she suspended his being – he couldn't move, incapacitated by her power. He could only watch. Could only listen.
The terror and question in his eyes broke her heart.
"I'm backed into a corner now, Klaus," she cried in a whisper. "And I have to keep you safe. I have to keep you all safe. All of my family. I didn't want to do it; I refused. But he threatened my mom, Klaus. He threatened all of you. And it wasn't just him; the other diplomatic world leaders are all behind him; there wouldn't have been a safe corner of the earth for us. The only way for me to make sure you're all safe, is to do what he wants; is to fulfill what I was created for."
No sound escaped his parted lips. There was no resistance; he could not.
Caroline hiccuped, tears saturating her cheeks and neck. "And you're going to hate me for this, but it's for the best, I swear it." She cupped the side of his face with one hand, and the other trailed to his heart. "I know you've said time and time again that I don't have to do it alone – but this time I do. Because I have to send them all back – all the supernaturals. And you can't be one of them: you remember what Isis said; that nothing's left there; I don't know what kind of purgatory I'm damning them to, and you can't be part of it." Her trembling fingers caressed the line of his jaw. "I have to figure out how to take them all back; what I need to do. But I also need to figure out how to exclude you, our family, and our friends from it. And on top of that, a list of people the governments have given me, that are to remain behind too. I'll be travelling a lot – I have to find all of these people, but I also have to find the curse; I have to find out what it is, I have to find out who wrote it, so I can take them back: and I can't have you coming with me. I can't have you knowing. I'm not even supposed to be telling you now." She brushed the hair from his forehead, tilting her head sadly. "I can't have you getting involved. But so long as you love me like you do; so long as you want to be by my side, you'll want to be." She choked down an agonising sob, taking his head in both her hands, and holding his eyes in an unbreakable bond. She drew on her influence, and swallowed hard. "You won't remember this conversation, until the time is right," she whispered. "All that you'll remember, when I leave this room, is that we had a fight – a big one. And we're going to take some space. You're going to go home, and I'm going to head off on my own way for a while. You don't know what for, and you're not going to follow me. Do you understand?"
"I understand," he mumbled quietly, complacently.
Her lips trembled uncontrollably, body shuddering. "Good," she whispered tearily, leaning into him. She pressed her lips to his a long moment, savouring the curve of his mouth, his essence – his love. For that last, brief moment, she let him consume her.
But the dream had to end, just as their moment had that morning. Just as all other great moments had their denouement.
Mustering every strength of will she possessed, Caroline climbed off the bed. Buttoned her shirt. Slipped into her shoes. Packed her suitcase of borrowed belongs. Took up her handbag.
And left him.
Downstairs, the car waited.
A valet stepped forward and relieved her of her belongs, stowing them away – before opening the door of the Cadillac.
Caroline slipped inside, and stared ahead, stony-faced.
"A hello would suffice," the President sighed.
"Are you serious? You've just made me to turn my back on everyone that's important to me–"
"Temporarily, to save the human race," he responded calmly.
Caroline scoffed.
"Which includes your mother, and her fiance and step-children, mind you," the President reminded her.
Caroline's breath hitched in her throat. "They're engaged?"
"As of last night–"
"How do you know this?"
"We have eyes on everyone, Miss Forbes."
Her heart lurched at that truth – and then her throat grew thick with tears. There really was no way around it. Around them.
"She was going to contact you today," he continued. "But you were understandably preoccupied."
Caroline felt the anger rising in her chest before she could check it. "You intercepted the call? How–"
"We needed you to focus," he responded. "Today was important; you not only placated the people, but you gained the supernaturals' trust. You also managed to detach yourself from you current...situation. You've done quite well; we just need you to keep it up." He paused. "And have you decided to cooperate?"
"Would I be here I hadn't?" Do I even have a choice? Was the subconscious truth she wanted to spit. But she couldn't.
"Just making sure." He reached down by his feet, and withdrew the volume – handing it to her with care.
Her eyes rested on it a long moment, as the vehicle began to move, taking her towards the next chapter. "Where do I begin?" She whispered, though the answer was ambiguous. Her gaze shot from the manuscript, to his waiting eyes in question.
"That, queen...is entirely in your hands."
– UBIQUITOUS –
The man stood, stretching his limbs as life filled every fibre of his being – at last awakened from his long sleep. He heard the footsteps before the vizier entered the suite.
"Sire – she's done it. The curse has lifted."
The king chuckled, flexing his fingers. "I didn't know."
"...What now?"
"We rebuild our empire."
"But what of the...others?"
"Passage between all realms is possible." Semonious looked down below on his kingdom as it awoke, before turning to face his man. "Let them come."
FIN.
Klaus and Caroline will return in Ubiquitous' sequel, Impetus.
AN: A final note. I know that many people usually write an essay of thanks, but I'll try to keep it brief-ish! This fanfiction has been such an incredible journey for me (and I hope for you too!). To think it all started almost two years ago – to even begin to fathom who I was then, and how so much has happened since and changed me: but through it all, the one thing that has remained constant (even if the updates weren't!) and my escape, was this story, and you guys. I know I can't single you out name by name, because I'll miss someone – but for those of you who have been here from the start, you know who you are, I know you've been there for me this whole time – thank you so, so much; I can't believe you've stayed with me the whole way through! To all those who came along the way, thank you for jumping on the wagon! Each of you, for taking time out of your day to read this, your support has meant the world to me. I'm continuously stunned and blown away that nearly 800 people follow this story, and that it's had nearly 200,000 reads – I'm so incredibly blessed! I really can't thank you all enough; I only hope that I have done my job, and delivered on providing an original, powerful story and journey for one of the greatest ships television didn't properly recognise. Also – quickly, thank you to the anon that pointed out a couple of grammatical habits I need to fix up (e.g. semicolons)! When I have the time, I will be going through and polishing the whole story before the sequel is published, but I'll fix up the first couple of chapters for starters.
Understandably, people were going to be irked by the ending; why spend the whole story getting these two together, only to throw them apart at the end? Because ultimately, they're my flawed Snow White and Prince Charming; there are going to be obstacles thrown in the way of their happiness, but they are a team, and they're irrefutably each other's soul-mates; they will always find their way back to each other. So while some of you may be frustrated with me now, in the long-run I will never deny these two their happy ending (or as normal as a Klaus-Caroline 'ending' could be!).
If anything, writing this story has made me ship Klaus and Caroline even harder. So much so, I will be coming back with Ubiquitous' sequel, "Impetus" (just wait for me to finish school, focus on my final exams and move first – in other words, be patient!) and hope you will be too! Also, keep your eye out on Youtube, because the trailer for "Impetus" is well underway, and will be up in the near future! I'm life-needs-epic on Youtube and Tumblr, I'll be letting you know what's going with regards to trailers and the story on the latter.
In the meantime, I'll be working on a completely new AU, "Priceless" – so, I'll see you soon!
Much love, G xx