A/N: Hello & welcome back. First of all, I want to thank you all for your continuous support and feedback. It means a lot to me. I thought you all deserve a Halloween treat, so here's chapter 9 of 'In Another Life'. I hope you enjoy it and please make sure to leave feedback.
▬ Charleston ▬
"Have you found anything?" his voice is calm and collected, and almost sounded dismissive as he asked the question he wanted to have answered with a positive result. However, he didn't even have to turn around and face his henchman to know the answer.
"No, Sir. Nothing that fits your description."
Elijah sighed and looked down at the piece of paper on which he had written the details of his vision as fine-grained as possible. He is aware, was even aware before he came into this city, that searching for this one specific elderly woman in a town with roughly 135.000 inhabitants is going to be a daunting task. Of course, he had a rough direction if he's going to trust Caroline's words of 'living near White Point Garden' but he didn't know her definition of 'living near'. He also didn't know where Caroline has gotten that presumption. Has Katerina told her? Is there any evidence?
"Perhaps it's time for a change of tactics...", Elijah claimed and put the piece of paper back on the desk of his new hotel suite. "I'm expanding my search. Please tell everyone I'm meeting them at 6 pm. I expect timeliness. You can go now," he waved his hand in the direction of the door, and shortly later, he could hear him leave.
The Original moved away from his desk and to the Minibar in his suite that was better equipped than some bar. He chose a fine whiskey and took the bottle as well as an artfully cut glass back to his desk.
As patient as he is, the ongoing search started to stretch his nerves. He loves getting results, preferably right away. Right now, however, results didn't seem to flow fluently but to drip incredibly slowly. It was to be expected, of course, because he knew it's still an incredibly big area to search for a woman without knowing her address or her name. It would take some time.
Returning to his desk, Elijah filled his glass and took a sip of his whiskey before he took a seat and eyed Katerina's hospital file with a sigh. He still hasn't had the time to study it in detail. A part of him didn't like the idea of snooping around in such personal information about her without having her consent. It felt false to engage with it too much, especially because he had no right to do so. They had ended things and he didn't want to violate her personal space.
And until now, he had avoided reading Katerina's hospital file too closely. He had only searched for Caroline Forbes's telephone number and the summary after she had left the hospital on her own.
Elijah's fingertips came in contact with the surface of his desk, tapping on it at irregular intervals as he pondered the situation. He knew - or rather assumed - she wouldn't be okay with him reading her hospital file in detail. She hated showing any sign of weakness, she didn't like being seen as vulnerable. He knew that, although he also knew he wouldn't see her as anyone different just because she's showing a softer side. Therefore he was almost certain she would detest the idea of having anyone know about her state.
Sometimes, however, the purpose justifies the means.
He needed to know everything about her that he's able to find, especially because he still hasn't her exact current location. Even if it meant reading such personal things. Even if he disliked the idea of invading her personal space.
Elijah took another sip of his drink before he opened the file.
"Tuesday, 11:23 pm:
The patient was admitted to the hospital after an emergency call.
Female, in the early twenties. Unconsciousness, not responsible.
Heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure are extremely low. Temperature of 29 °C. The patient is on oxygen via a nose piece to assist her breathing. The neck is fixed with a ruff.
The patient was admitted fully clothed but entirely soaked. The patient was changed and dressed into a hospital gown to warm her up.
The skin of the face, hands, and feet is cold and inflamed. No dead cells yet.
The patient lacks reflexes. Pupils are fixed and dilated.
Scraped skin on knees and arms. Cut on the right temple. Several fresh but also older bruises on the rib cage, arms, knuckles, and neck.
Reasons unknown. The patient needs to be admitted to the MRI and fluoroscopy through a CT scan. It has to be checked if she was subjected to sexual assault."
Reading again in what poorly state she was admitted to the hospital did not only concern him, it also enraged him. He was thankful for the person who was reasonable enough to have set off an emergency call because if she had collapsed anywhere else, she probably wouldn't have made it through the night.
At the same time, however, Elijah was furious about the fact that it had even come so far. Katerina is a smart person, he can't imagine that she took things so to extremes until she collapsed. Surely she must have tried to get help or at least looked like she needed help. And while Katerina does have her pride, he cannot imagine her ever refusing help if she needed some, especially if refusing help could endanger her life. Were people these days really that arrogant to not help a young woman? Or at least ask her if she needed anything?
Apparently so. His mind slipped to that being (because he wouldn't call him a human) in that run-down gas station that tried to gain a benefit from a woman in need. Elijah gritted his teeth and a dangerous snarl left his lips. His knuckles cracked when his hands closed into fists, his eyes sparkling with anger. The hospital file stated that it needed to be checked if she had been subjected to sexual assault because of the circumstances they found her. He for sure knew it wasn't that being from the gas station but if the hospital's apprehension came true...
He swore that if anyone had dared to have sexually abused her, he would track down the responsible person. That person would beg for death. A death that he wouldn't grant for a long time because death would be the salvation that person wouldn't deserve.
In another fit of rage, Elijah wiped a few other documents (the welcome documents of the hotel and maps of the area) off the desk.
It took Elijah quite some time to gather himself and calm down, although the knowledge nearly made it impossible to do so. His rigid stare was fixed on the scattered documents on the floor, his breath still hasty. He knew (hoped) that his worries were unjustified. That Katerina, Katherine, knew how to defend herself. That even as a human, he can imagine that she can be deadly if necessary. But he also knows, unfortunately, knows, that there are sick minds out there.
Eventually, however, he managed to calm his breaths and his desire to punch something when he realized that it's better to focus on Katerina's file again. That only her file holds the answers he needed to read to stop him from tearing someone apart.
"Wednesday, 4:06 am
The patient is still unconscious.
Active core rewarming initiated. Used: intravenous warmed fluids, warm humidified inhaled air through a nose piece, heating blankets. No need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Current temperature: 35 °C. No signs of Rewarming shock. Breath and blood pressure stable.
Results of the MRI show that the patient suffers from mild traumatic brain injury (Commotio cerebri). Brain activity appears to be regular considering the circumstances. Needs to be checked again when the patient wakes up. Signs for partly starting inflammation of the lung. Needs to be checked again. Heart okay. The liver and kidneys are okay. No abnormalities in the other organs.
Results of CT scan: Four ribs (4-7) on the right side slightly cracked. Older violation, not healed properly. Signs of older contusions in the same area of rib 4-7 on the right side. Not healed properly. The area needs rest. Signs of older contusions in the right hand. Not healed properly, slight swelling still visible.
Result of sexual assault kit: Only superficially carried out due to lack of consent of the patient (still unconscious). Results Negative.
Parenteral nutrition and Fluid solutions through Intravenous therapy. Suspected malnutrition.
Results of external examination: Signs of fresh, healed skin on right cheek and temple, right rib cage. Still slight signs of healing bruises if looked closely. Several (old) not entirely healed Ecchymosis in the right chest area. Fresh, subdermal hematomas on both knees and on the left hip and left elbow. Very likely from the patient's current collapse. Smaller bleeding abrasions on the knees, the left elbow, and left palm. Dry, chapped lips. Signs of sliced skin on the right palm. Healing, presumably from a cut. Not as old as injuries on the right rib cage. Several subdermal hematomas on the neck from different periods. Healed wound above left collarbone/neck. Swollen feet, blisters.
It is suspected that patient was involved in accidents before the accident that lead to her admission. Suspected domestic abuse."
Elijah wiped a hand across his face and leaned his head back, his eyes closed. The results of the medical examination of Katerina were horrible. While he was beyond relieved that no one had sexually assaulted her, it's clear that someone (or even more than just one person) still dared to lay a hand on her. The list of injuries and abnormalities was too long. Katherine Pierce wasn't known for self-destructive behavior, she always managed to weasel her way out. Reading that they discovered so many injuries, even older ones, concerned him. What had happened? What part played Mystic Falls in it?
The Original couldn't comprehend her desire to stay in this town after she turned human, knowing that they weren't fond of her and vice versa. She probably hoped for protection and a safe place to stay but he wasn't convinced that some of them didn't try to harm her, kill her even. The muscles in his jaw jumped because of the tension in his body. He'll definitely make some investigations once he has found Katerina.
He straightened in his seat and lead the glass of whiskey to his lips. The burning liquid in his throat distracted him from his rather revengeful thoughts.
Setting the glass back on the desk, Elijah swiped through the file until he found the x-rays of Katerina. Although he wasn't a specialist in healthcare (he sometimes just liked to occupy himself with it), it wasn't hard to find the cracked spots in her ribs. The report didn't sound like anyone has ever tried to treat her injuries, otherwise, it shouldn't be possible to find evidence of that many old injuries, should it? He can imagine that Katerina might have been persistent in refusing to go into a hospital but letting her stay in such a state was negligent. The pictures also showed the still existing intramuscular hematomas, making it clear that she had probably been in pain.
He gulped as he tried to comprehend her situation. He already knew that she must have been terrified and scared because of her new human state but he had hoped that at least she hasn't been in pain. He had been wrong and he hated himself even more for not having known it sooner. Perhaps at least some of it could have been prevented.
"Wednesday, 10:22 am
Staff was alarmed because of a sudden increasing heartbeat.
The patient has abruptly completely woken up.
The patient suffered from a heavy panic attack and tried to tear her cannulas out. Armpit started to bleed. Two orderly tried to soothe her to no avail. The third orderly gave a mild sedative to reduce her anxiety. The patient calmed down but didn't fall back asleep. The patient told the orderly to stay away and tell her where she was. Language slightly slurred. The patient was told that she is in the hospital and asked if one of the nurses is allowed to take care of her bleeding armpit. It needed a lot of conviction until she let her. Cannulas for the still needed IV therapy was placed in her other armpit.
Willpower in her state is remarkable. Suspicion of Coagulopathy (bleeding disorder) as the wound in her armpit didn't stop bleeding in an acceptable time."
Elijah didn't know why, but just as he was told in the hospital, reading now that her willpower, her attitude is still existent relieved him and actually caused him to smile a little bit. Katerina always has been quite stubborn and it's good to know that hasn't changed, despite her situation. Nonetheless, he didn't like to imagine that she hurt herself because she was in a panic.
However, it surprised him that apparently, her body had difficulties with stopping the bleeding. It must have been a tiny wound if she started bleeding because she pulled the fine needle out, even if she did it roughly. There shouldn't be an issue with healing such a small injury.
His brows furrowed when he tried to recall the last time she had been human. Despite the obvious (and very nightmarish) event in the woods where he had been able to smell her blood, Elijah could remember only one another time where she had cut herself.
▬ England, 1492 ▬
"I assume your property is famous for its lovely rose gardens, my lord," Katerina said with a smile on her lips, her cheeks rosy from the excitement as she strolled through the rows of roses, one hand extended to brush the petals.
"They are exceptional indeed, Katerina. But I admit that I haven't really had the time to enjoy them."
"Dare I say that's a pity?" she glanced at him with a thoughtful expression in her petite features before she carefully leaned in closer to a deep red blossom and breathed in. "I've never smelled flowers as intense as the ones you have here." Her eyes closed and a smile curled on her lips.
Elijah stepped closer and extended a hand to touch one of the blossoms. His words have been true, he has never even really paid attention to them. They were a decorative accessory when he and his brother first moved here. His time was occupied by far more important things and he wondered if he had ever explored the rose gardens in detail if it hadn't been for her.
"I can arrange for someone to bring some of your favorite roses to your quarters so you can enjoy them at any time."
"That's a beautiful offer but I ask you not to. It would be sad to cut them off." Her petite fingertips brushed lightly over the petals before she moved to the next blooming rose, a yellow one while he himself had a hard time taking his eyes off her.
She seemed so lighthearted whenever he takes her to the rose gardens. It's always a sight that warms his heart, that makes him wish to feel the same, being without any worries. To forget about the cruel plan his brother has in mind for her.
"As you wish, Katerina", he replied and offered her an assuring smile, showing her that the roses will stay the way they are.
"Thank you, Elijah" her warm brown eyes met his, and their gaze interlocked. The rosy color of her cheeks seemed to intensify before she turned with a soft giggle and continued to wander through the rows of roses, her hand still extended to brush softly over the blossoms. Until she suddenly stopped and a soft gasp left her lips. She withdrew her hand from the roses and brought it to her chest, her gaze fixed on her fingers.
"What is it?" he asked and stepped closer before he noticed the slight smell of blood. Sweet and intoxicating, a hint of something flowery in it.
"I cut myself. Please don't worry, I'm fine." Katerina replied and offered him a smile.
"Please let me see?" he asked her and held out his hand. He wasn't overall concerned because he assumed she had cut herself on a throne but he knew how Niklaus can be like. If he had a bad day, he won't allow 'his precious doppelgänger' to leave the building again, fearing in his paranoia that she'd hurt herself more badly, making her unusable for him.
Katerina frowned slightly but laid her hand in his, palm up. There was a small blood drop on her index finger. It didn't look too bad, thankfully. Elijah pulled out his embroidered cotton handkerchief and carefully dabbed the blood away. He could see it already stopped bleeding which relieved him because he didn't want to imagine Niklaus reaction if he brought Katerina back hurt, no matter how small the injury is.
"We should go inside and wash it so we can make sure it doesn't get infected" a precaution. He let go of Katerina's hand and she nodded before she started to walk back towards the castle, not without admiring another white rose before she did so.
▬ Present ▬
Katerina clearly had no issues with Hemostasis (a process to prevent and stop bleeding) in 1492 when she had been human the last time. How can that change? And moreover, what does that mean for her?
It would endanger her even more.
A human is already frail but a human who has issues to heal? It can be fatal.
Elijah wiped his hand over his face again before he started to massage his temple, wondering why one good news must always be connected with a bad one.
Then, however, he managed to focus on Katerina's hospital file again but skipped the more boring and standardized parts like used medication, given food, short looking after at night.
"Wednesday, 11:44 am
The patient claims her name is Katherine Forbes and expresses the desire to leave the hospital despite being told she's too weak.
The patient refuses anyone coming near her and threatens staff if they dare to do anything without her consent.
An orderly was able to persuade her to check her temperature. Current temperature: 37°C. Heart rate and breathing stable.
The patient allowed the treating of her inflamed skin because of the suffered Hypothermia.
The patient said she can't really bend her fingers and voiced that they feel numb (side effect of the suffered hypothermia)."
"Wednesday, 12:10 pm
The patient fell asleep again. Given sedative turned off."
"Wednesday, 1:32 pm
The patient is still asleep. Restless sleep. Twitching eyelids and fingers. Often changes in heart rate."
"Wednesday, 7:03 pm
The patient woke up again, confused and partly aggressive.
Voiced she feels tired but also hungry.
A Soup was brought. The patient was able to eat by herself. Fingers feel better. Inflamed skin was treated again.
The patient quickly fell asleep again after the meal. Sleep slightly more peaceful. Heart rate still changed from time to time."
"Thursday, 6:21 am
The patient was caught trying to leave the bed.
The patient reluctantly laid back down. IV therapy is no longer needed.
The patient ate her breakfast and voiced the desire to leave the hospital.
Current temperature: 38°C."
"Thursday 8:59 am
Conversation with the treating physician and Ms. Katherine Forbes.
Contact person: Caroline Forbes, sister. Lives in Mystic Falls.
Encouraged to stay longer (against Ms. Forbes wishes).
Further treatment is going to be discussed with sister Caroline Forbes.
The patient refuses blood samples to be taken.
No statement as to what has happened prior to her admission to the hospital. Negated questions regarding the possibility of domestic abuse. Answers are questionable, Patient seems anxious."
"Thursday, 11:30 am
Ms. Caroline Forbes was reached by telephone. Is concerned about Ms. Katherine Forbes and her state. Wants her to stay more days until she's fully recovered. Will visit on Saturday."
"Thursday, 6:45 pm:
The patient has eaten all her meals and asked for a refill. Healthy appetite. The patient has gained some weight and is no longer under the impression of being malnourished. Temperature and heart rate stable. The patient sometimes coughs but denies any pain in the chest. The patient felt tired and soon fell asleep."
"Friday, 1:02 am:
Episodes of restless sleep. Twitching eyelids and fingers. Changeful heart rate. The patient seems to suffer from nightmares every night. Same patterns the previous nights, intensity varies."
"Friday, 10:23 am:
The patient still coughs, lung sounds inflamed. The patient refuses another MRI. Was given antibiotics to contain a starting pneumonia (inflammation of the lung). Appetite is still there."
Elijah skipped the entries that just repeated the previous one until he found the last important entry.
"Saturday, 02:14 am:
At routine visit discovered that patient is not in her bed. Search unsuccessful. Her personal things are gone but jewelry is still in her room. Medications are missing. The patient has expressly not been dismissed and was required to stay at least two more days."
Elijah closed Katerina's hospital file and took a moment in silence where he seemed to be frozen in his movements while processing everything that he had read.
He remembered Dr. Brown's plea to get Katerina checked by a doctor, especially in respect of her lungs and heart. Her heart seemed to have been okay during the last day of her stay but her lungs worried him as they have already diagnosed a starting pneumonia.
But again he was aware that Katerina was smart, that she had hopefully sought someone out who can help her. Apparently, she had stolen some medications (god knows how she was capable of doing that because a hospital doesn't just leave that kind of stuff lying around). She had left the hospital several weeks ago so hopefully, the pneumonia had already worn off.
However, there was also another thing that still concerned him, apart from the obvious and very horrendous injuries: The suspected Coagulopathy (blood's ability to coagulate (form clots) is impaired).
Elijah doesn't know much about it, in fact, he had never really concerned himself with bleeding diathesis. He knew of Haemophilia which is often inherited. He recalled that this disease featured prominently in European royalty. However, Elijah doubted it's something Katerina has inherited because she had been fine in 1492. He's sure that he would have noticed any abnormal bleeding. So what has it caused?
A lack of vitamins or nutrients? Elijah doesn't believe that would affect Katerina's blood.
Then, however, another suspicion shoot in his mind: The cure.
Elijah remembered the strange consistency of the cure when he had it in his possession. It was fluid, even after all this time, and of a red color which oddly resembled blood. Yet it seemed to be thinner than actual blood but it also doesn't seem to be some kind of water. Whatever it was, it ran through Katerina's veins. At least that's how he supposed it worked. The circulatory system is the only system that permits blood to circulate and transport all kinds of stuff to and from the cells in the body.
What if the cure had changed Katerina's composition of her blood? It would make her an even easier target.
Elijah's nostrils widened as the painful memory hit him again.
"I know you're near, I can smell your blood."
He can imagine that he's not the only one who's looking for her. That there are others, also vampires, who want to get her in their hands. If she's running and she has hurt herself and her body won't stop bleeding ... a vampire can easily find her or her trail, even hours after she had passed a location. Apart from the fact that losing too much blood would weaken her body. Furthermore, which is even crueler, such a disease can benefit internal hemorrhaging. She could die of excessive loss of blood and no one would know...
He shuddered at that thought and wondered at the same time if Katerina was even aware of this eventuality. He can't imagine that someone had told her or - which is also a possibility - if she even cared to listen in case anyone told her. He could imagine she didn't want to be reminded of her fragile state.
It really seems as if the issues and worries don't seem to want to decrease.
▬ Later that day ▬
"Has everyone gathered, George?"
"Yes, Sir. They are all waiting in the conference room you booked."
"Wonderful. Did you have the opportunity to check my apartment in New York again?"
"Yes, Sir. It's still exactly the way you have left it."
Elijah nodded slightly, already having assumed that Katerina hasn't tried to find another location but he wanted to check every opportunity despite being almost absolutely certain that she hasn't left the area.
George was one of the vampires of his inner circle, he put a lot of trust in him. Despite having not turned George himself, the vampire with the short brown hair and the blue eyes was absolutely loyal to him since he had offered his services. Furthermore, he possessed the decency to not ask too many questions. Some had a too loose mouth for Elijah's liking.
Before entering the conference room, Elijah fixed his tie again (although it was perfect already before) and inhaled. He cannot deny that he's strained, especially after what he had learned this afternoon when looking through Katerina's hospital file. And although he tried his best to compose himself, he couldn't quite shake off this unsettling feeling he has whenever he's confronted with the knowledge that Katerina is nowhere to be found.
"Good evening. Thanks for taking the time to join me," he greeted as he finally entered the conference room he booked in the hotel he was staying at. Not that anyone had the possibility to not come as he would see that as a sign of disloyalty which would lead to being set into 'retirement'. Finding Katerina (or rather Katherine Pierce) was a delicate matter whom he only entrusts with his best people.
"As you know, we have a new target to find. Unfortunately, our search has been quite unsuccessful. That's why I chose to try a different approach. Please don't worry, this meeting won't take long" his lips pulled up into a small but soothing smile. He was still feared amongst his people, something which ensured they cooperated and didn't dare to betray him.
"Original Vampires have the power to enter the minds of others which could be used for sending mental images. Since I'm unfortunately not capable of visualizing the person we're looking for in a different way, I want to share her image mentally." Elijah explained while standing in front of a canvas used for the projection of the beamer in the room. Unfortunately, he couldn't use such a simple method as beaming a portrait on the canvas. In contrary to Niklaus, Elijah never has developed any talent in the arts because if he had, he could simply draw or paint the person he's looking for in order for his people to find her.
"I have to give the image to everyone individually, so I ask you to line up." While it's a gift to send mental images to his henchmen, it's also really a shame even an Original wasn't capable of doing that on more than just one person. "Are there any questions left?"
Elijah let his gaze wander over the seven men and two women that had gathered in this room. All vampires who worked for him. They did it voluntarily and were loyal only to him. The reasons for doing so were diverse although it often had something to do with protection. Surrounding themselves with an Original had its peeks. It scared people off. There are only a few foolish enough to dare cross an Original.
"Will it hurt?", the woman named Savannah asked, leading to Elijah shaking his head. It's understandable that they have questions and show concern, especially because he has never done such a thing to them before. He usually keeps that ability to himself, although it's sometimes handy. Despite the fact that all of his siblings have that ability, Elijah is the most gifted in it. He doesn't even need a physical touch to execute this ability.
"I assure you, it won't hurt, Savannah. It's like you suddenly imagine or remember a certain thing or picture."
"Does the procedure remain the same?" asked another one named Patrick.
"It will remain the same as discussed. If anyone of you finds the elderly woman, I want you to stay hidden and collect every possible information you can get. Most importantly are name and address but I also need information about her environment, especially if she lives with someone. Once any one of you has spotted her, you will immediately report back to me. I will initiate the further steps. Please don't interact with her and stay hidden. It's important to remember to be careful and unnoticed."
An overall nod followed his words after he repeated his instructions.
"Wonderful. Now that there aren't any more questions, shall we begin?"
...
Hours have passed since he sent his henchmen away so that they could hopefully soon fulfill their important tasks. The sun has settled long ago, and Elijah knew he should lay down to get some sleep. To allow his mind to rest. Yet, he didn't feel tired at all although he knew he should. There was an inner restlessness that kept him awake. Was it guilt? Sorrow? Fear?
Elijah's hands grabbed the edges of the full-length mirror in his hotel suite he stood in front of after he had placed his tuxedo jacket in the wardrobe. He was slightly leaned forward, and his knuckles came out white beneath his tented skin because of his tight grip. He had to pay attention to not break the mahogany framework. His gaze was set on the floor, not wanting to look at himself right now.
He began to quarrel with himself despite knowing that he cannot give up. Not after months of searching for his beloved Katerina. Not after being so close. But the more time passes, the more he felt incredibly incompetent and powerless. Useless, even.
There's one part of him that knows it's incredibly hard to find someone who has been on the run for five hundred years and most likely doesn't want to be found now as well. Katherine Pierce is without a doubt skilled in going into hiding. He knew she's quite capable of adapting and being inconspicuous, nonetheless, he had believed it would be easier to find her now that she's human and her resources are more limited. Of course, he's immensely grateful that it's not that easy. Because he liked to believe that if he cannot find Katerina, no one else can. However, that doesn't change the fact that it's nagging on him.
Then there's also the lurking knowledge in the back of his mind that there's a good chance that Katerina doesn't want to see him. That she rather run than give him the chance to explain himself, to set things right. He doesn't want her to live in the knowledge that he has simply discarded and abandoned her. Because he hasn't and never will although he apparently gave her that impression. While he hadn't expected the enormous consequences when he told her goodbye to go to New Orleans (with the intention of returning eventually), he knew exactly what not returning her calls must have looked like.
He cannot be blamed for the second one, although one could argue he was foolish to believe Niklaus would act properly and appreciate his presence, especially considering how he behaved before going to New Orleans. For the first one, however...
A growl left his lips and the muscles jumped in his jaw.
His own stupidity drove him mad. One added sentence could have changed the entire situation. He could have changed it all if he just had had more strength back then. Elijah's hand lifted and he loosened the upper buttons of his white shirt. Thankfully, he already got rid of his tie before because he felt like he's suffocating.
He leaned his forehead against the cool glass of the mirror and closed his eyes when he became aware that he's losing control again. Something which happened too often for his liking in the past few weeks.
Elijah swallowed and forced himself to compose himself. Repressing his emotions, his guilt, always had been a specialty of him.
Eventually, Elijah stepped away from the mirror and headed to the balcony doors of his hotel suite to get out. The cold night air came into contact with his heated skin and a slight chill ran down his spine.
Most people were asleep by now, he could almost see no lights in other windows of the surrounding buildings. It was quiet outside with the exception of a few cars that still passed the streets.
He gripped the cool railing and sucked in the icy air. It started to get warmer every week and one could see spring is approaching. The nights, however, were still cold, sometimes even icy. His jaw clenched when he remembered that it was this weather - along with other factors - that contributed to Katerina's admission to the hospital because she was out there for god knows how long.
Not even the cool air that burned in his lungs managed to grant him a moment of peace because his mind immediately wandered to Katerina again, wondering, asking a thousand questions, torturing him.
Elijah turned on his heels and walked back inside but left the balcony doors open to allow fresh air to stream in.
Then, he went to his desk and picked up the glass he had left there before he had gone to the meeting with his henchmen to refill it at the minibar of his suite. A sigh escaped his lips when he noticed that this bottle was almost empty, so he placed it back down, realizing that he's drinking too much. And drinking too much can either nebulize his mind for a while and make him stop thinking about the beautiful brunette or it can do the entire opposite. He decided that's not worth the risk.
Perhaps he needed different nourishment.
If he's honest, he can't remember the last time he had drank blood. It surely was before he moved to Charleston. Another sign that he doesn't have himself under control and he despised that.
Fortunately, there was room service.
"Good Evening. I apologize for the late disturbance. Could you please arrange a bottle of red wine to be brought? The room is 563. Thank you."
A short time later, there was a knock on the door and Elijah got up from his seat at his desk. Ordering red wine was just an excuse to get his real drink. Or food, however you take it.
He felt his gum aching when he approached the door, his inner demon waiting to finally get some blood. He really has been too careless in the past few days and he's making sure that it won't happen again. How is he supposed to keep a calm mind if he deprived himself of blood?
"Good Evening, Sir. I bring you the wine you ordered", said the young woman who apparently was responsible for his floor. She had a small cart with her on which an ice cooler, a bottle of wine, and a bottle opener were placed.
"Do you want me to open the bottle of wine for you? Or place it in the ice cooler?" she asked politely while she pushed the cart inside his hotel suite after he allowed her access.
"That's very thoughtful of you but no, thank you. It's not necessary." Elijah assured the brunette with a small and friendly smile while closing the door. "Please place the bottle in the minibar. I apologize for the late inconvenience I caused."
"There's nothing to apologize for, Sir. Please let us know if you need anything else, the bar is always open. We also serve snacks but it's unfortunately not possible to serve warm food during the night," she explained politely while putting the bottle of red wine at the place he had named.
"Is there anything else I could bring you, Sir?" she asked, letting Elijah nod.
"Actually there is something else you could do for me." In the next moment, Elijah was in front of her and compelled her to not be afraid and remain quiet before she could shriek. He doesn't like to unnecessarily scare humans and he's always very careful when feeding. He didn't want to make it hurt nor leave any scars.
But when he carefully swept away her long, straight brown hair from her neck and when he could feel his features changing while the strands of brown hair ran through his fingers, he suddenly came to a halt. His gaze wasn't fixed on the woman's neck but at the brown strands of hair in his hand. The undeniable hunger turned into disgust and the muscles in his jaw tensed as he was battling the desire to drink. Although he found himself unable to do so, unexpectedly having Katerina in his mind.
Elijah stepped back and let go of the woman's hair. Her hair wasn't curly as Katerina's, didn't even share the same shade as Katerina's. The color of her eyes weren't the same brown hues as Katerina's and yet ... and yet he cannot shake off the image of her being Katerina. That it was her he's going to bite, her that he's going to hurt. Because he knew that a bite will hurt, despite being careful.
"Please go, forget about what happened, and make sure you never get sent to my room again," he compelled her, his voice uneven. It had been a long time since the last time he painfully became aware of what he is: What he does to humans despite his efforts of being a civilized being.
He gave the woman a generous tip for bringing him the bottle of wine before he immediately locked the door after she left, hoping he's locking his demonic side away with it.
...
The smell of fresh coffee, croissants, and buns as well as the sound of soft chatter felt the air of the glazed terrace used for the morning buffet. Despite the horrible and not particular restful night, Elijah sat on one of the small tables that only granted a place for a maximum of two people shortly after 6:30 am. He was freshly shaved and showered and clothed in a fresh suit. He had fed (on a blonde) before attending the breakfast and he felt slightly better. Back in the right mindset. Back in having himself under control.
Elijah took a sip of his fresh roasted, dark coffee while browsing through the daily newspaper. A habit he had picked up quite some time ago because it granted him to stay informed. Furthermore, he needed to make sure he doesn't overlook any hints about Katerina. The article about the unknown woman who had died in a car accident that led him to visit the hospital had only gathered his attention by chance and he wanted to ensure that this won't happen again.
He only glanced over the articles about politics, an upcoming party at some university (which seemed to be more an invitation for former students), and other festivities, as well as articles about nature and new construction projects. To be honest, he was only really interested in the police report. People without identity papers, break-ins, car theft. Anything that could stand in connection with the missing Bulgarian brunette. He was aware that Katerina was supposed to stay with someone but he doesn't believe that she's going to stay for long with a stranger. Unfortunately, Katherine sometimes suffers from pronounced paranoia.
The police report was inconspicuous and he wasn't yet sure if it's a good or a bad sign. Although he came to the conclusion that it probably was a good sign if she doesn't get herself in trouble and stay hidden.
A throat clear caught his attention, and Elijah looked up from his newspaper which he closed and folded neatly before placing it back on the table.
"George, good morning. Please have a seat", he offered politely as he looked up and saw the man.
The vampire followed his invitation and pushed back the chair so he could sit back down. "Thank you, sir. And good morning." He seemed to eye him for a moment but Elijah ignored it, already knowing why George happen to be slightly suspicious.
"I assume you have positive results to share?", Elijah questioned while his eyes never left the other vampire.
George was quick to nod. "Yes sir. Your brother is still in New Orleans. I also asked around and no one has seen anyone who works for Klaus Mikaelson."
"Good, make sure it stays that way. I also want you to have an eye on this city's vampire population. If you notice someone step out of line, report it to me and I'll get rid of the problem," his tone was serious, not leaving any room for discussion.
He had called George sometime last night to go and check certain things. He hadn't been in a good mindset last night and perhaps he's overreacting but one can never be too careful. Especially if Katerina is somewhere in this city: Human and possibly suffering under a bleeding disorder. He cannot tolerate any dangers that might draw attention to her. And regarding Niklaus... Elijah knew that he still wants him back in New Orleans. It had been quite some time since he had talked to him and the call hadn't ended in a good way. Niklaus can be incredibly resentful and he rather doesn't want to find him in front of his door. He knew he cannot prevent Niklaus from seeking him out eventually but at least he wanted to be prepared.
"I'll make sure to report you any changes."
"Wonderful, George. I know I can rely on you." He really could. There's a reason why he's the one he trusted the most. "How was your visit with the witch? Was she able to help you with your ... issue?" he asked, genuinely interested in how it turned out.
It's a common belief that he's just as ruthless and self-centered as he often acts when he violently expresses his position. However, and that's a huge difference, he's capable of caring about others, even outside his own interests or family. He knew that George suffers from a cruel hex placed on a person dear to him. Unfortunately, there's not much one can do about it.
"Oh, Mr. Mikaelson, it is exactly the same as before - fortunately. Daniela is still alive and I'm so thankful for it and the fact you put in a good word for me at your witch."
"You're welcome, George. It is not much I can provide but I do hope it was enough to ensure she's safe to wake up one day." Elijah's wish was genuine and he offered the other man an assuring smile.
▬ Five days later ▬
After Elijah had finished his morning routine that consisted of breakfast at the hotel he was staying in and reading today's newspaper to gather every potential interesting information, Elijah set out for his daily morning walk. It distracted his mind because there wasn't much he could do other than keep his eyes open and rely on his men and women to find a hint. Unfortunately, he cannot have his eyes everywhere and required help. In addition, Elijah had figured that it's safer to lay low to not only attract Niklaus to his current whereabouts but also to not accidentally scare off Katerina. He didn't know what kind of preparation she had decided to take but he knew that she was careful, especially if she cannot estimate a situation. He doubted that she would take his presence here in Charleston as a good sign or some kind of peace offering. For that she's too paranoid - and rightfully so. Nonetheless, it doesn't change his need to actively do something, to contribute to the search and finally find her. To him, it was almost unbearable to rely on his people only and it was hard to just let time pass.
His walk led him to White Point Garden, the little park in the southern tip of Charleston. According to Caroline Forbes, Katerina lived somewhere close to this park and although his people checked the area frequently, no one has yet caught a glimpse of her. That (unfortunately) didn't surprise him because the area was full of tourists because it was one of the most beautiful places in the city.
The park was full of old and mighty oaks that cast shadows on the green meadows with their gnarled branches. In the middle of the park, there was a beautiful white gazebo one could enter after climbing five stairs.
Elijah decided to take a seat on a bench near the gazebo and let his gaze wander through the park before he let it glide onto the water. Ashley River unites with Cooper River not far from the park and a few miles from there, they flowed into the Atlantic.
During this time, it's still somewhat early, there were only a few people in the park giving it a peaceful atmosphere he enjoyed. Whenever he was here, he wondered if Katerina visited this park as well, thinking she would like it here. The atmosphere of the park and the seaside promenade were classy. There were many stately, mainly antebellum homes that had a special flair.
The Original vampire leaned a bit back, his fingers absently playing with the daylight ring on his other hand while his gaze is still set on the water as he let his mind wander.
Eventually, although he cannot say how much time has passed, Elijah felt his phone vibrating on the inside of his jacket and he reached inside to take it out and answer the call.
"Good Morning, Mister Mikaelson, this is Savannah," Elijah could pick up her excited and slightly breathless tone that made him arch an eyebrow in wonder. But he let her talk after he greeted her.
"I- I think I've just seen the woman you're looking for. The one you showed us a few days ago," Elijah's eyes lit up at the revelation and he immediately straightened and got off the bench, already heading to the exit.
"Continue, please. Where have you seen her and do you have any more details?"
"Of course, Sir. She has left a bakery in Harleston Village. I followed her to her house. She lives in South of Broad," she told him the address and Elijah noted it mentally as he oriented himself to walk in the right direction.
"And I found out her name is Eleanor Williams."
"Thank you, Savannah. You've been a great help. I'm going to check it. Please stay hidden and watch the area until I arrive," with that, he ended the phone call and called a taxi to drive him back to the hotel so he can get his car. Depending on if Katerina still stays with this Eleanor Williams or not, he needed to pay attention to his appearance. In case Katerina wasn't there, he needed to get every information possible from Eleanor and it wouldn't surprise him if Katerina had silently set her on vervain which means he has to make Eleanor trust him.
...
Not even three-quarters of an hour later, Elijah parked his black sportscar near the address he has been given. Admittedly, he was pretty nervous by now and his fingertips tapped restlessly against the steering wheel while he tried to come up with the perfect approach. In no case did he want to surprise Katerina, should she be present. She should not feel that his presence could be a threat. He just wanted to talk to her and offer his help (and apologize for his foolish choice of words and actions). He wanted to set and make things right.
With a quick glance at his watch, Elijah checked the time. It wasn't too early for his visit to awaken someone, but it wasn't too late to disturb the preparations for lunch. It should be the perfect time to visit.
The Original got out of his car and smoothed his suit before he buttoned his suit jacket while leaving the lowest button undone (as it should be). Then, he tightened the knot of his tie and checked his phone for possibly further messages before he walked toward the given address of Eleanor Williams. He had deliberately not parked in front of the house so as not to attract attention before he even had the chance to ring.
This area was part of one of the exclusive and historic neighborhoods. Just as the place he was staying at, it had a certain flair because of the historic architecture from single houses to stately mansions. Palm trees, but also oaks lined the roadside and provided shade, the leaves rustled quietly in the wind.
Elijah spotted the historic building that was his destination and he eyed the house before trying to focus on the sounds inside. Unfortunately, he couldn't make out much.
He gazed through the iron gates and let his gaze wander through the garden behind it. The garden was very well maintained and bloomed without end. Slightly further back was a Relax tranquil fountain, under an aged grand oak. The exterior walls of the three-story building were held in a friendly yellow tone whereas the plantation shutters were held in a dark tone. It had a full side porch held in white and looked overall pretty inviting. If this was the place Katerina was staying in, he could definitely see why she picked it.
The gate was not locked and with a slight push, it opened, allowing Elijah to enter the property. His calculated steps followed the paved path to the front door and before he could really realize it, he stood in front of it.
Elijah inhaled deeply, an unknown nervosity flaring up before he knocked on the door and waited, hearing someone nearby.
And indeed! He could hear someone approaching. His heart is beating in his ears, and he could not deny that he was hopeful that his search finally came to an end and he finally gets the chance to reunite with his Katerina.
The door opened and he narrowed his eyes a little bit. Unfortunately, it wasn't Katerina but it was a face he recognized nonetheless.
His hazel eyes wandered over the elderly woman. Her short white hair had a slight perm and she had a friendly face with greenish-blue eyes and glowing, clear skin with surprisingly only a few age spots. She looked sympathetic, even more than what he had seen in his vision.
"Oh, I didn't expect you to be that fast," Eleanor greeted after she eyed him as well, and sounded unexpectedly apologizing. However, there was also something else in her gaze. A hint of recognizing, perhaps? But maybe it's only in his mind. Elijah lifted sightly an eyebrow in confusion because he wasn't aware that his arrival had been awaited.
"I didn't know the insurance people work so quickly. I have not yet fully gathered the necessary documents for the requested health insurance but please come in and I try my best to not let you wait for too long." Elijah squinted his eyes until he came to the conclusion that it must be his suit that made Eleanor think he was from an 'insurance'. He slightly ruffled his nose at this thought. He didn't really understand why exactly she made that connection but he had noted that he had just been invited in without even having to come up with an excuse as to why he had to enter.
"Forgive me, Mrs. Williams, I fear I have forgotten most of my files and therefore I'm not sure if I came to the right address," the lie slipped Elijah's lips effortlessly, using the unexpected possibility perfectly. "I'm talking to Elanor Williams, right?" he needed to make sure that this is really the name to the face he was looking for.
"Exactly. And I'm talking to?"
"Elijah Smith", Elijah responded and altered his last name to another one, not wanting to set off any alarm clocks in case Katerina had contact with this woman and had warned her.
"Nice to meet you, Mr. Smith. I'm glad you had the time to come. Please come inside. Can I bring you some tea? Or coffee?", she asked before she already vanished into what he supposed was the kitchen.
Elijah set a foot over the doorstep (carefully, to ensure he could really enter), and closed the front door behind him. He took a moment to listen again but could only make out one person, so far.
The foyer had a living room on the left and a formal dining room on the right. Beyond the dining room was a big country-style kitchen with a center island. It looked bigger than what he remembered from his vision but still familiar. It almost seemed to be too big for just one person.
"I take a cup of tea, please", Elijah finally answered before he sat down on the dining table, his eyes trying to find a hint of Katerina in this house. On a shelf opposite were some framed pictures. Pictures of Eleanor and someone he supposed was her husband. Family pictures with two children. Baby pictures that seemed to be the grandchild, perhaps. Pictures of a Yorkie and Miniature Schnauzer. But no hint of Katerina, although that probably cannot be expected.
He wondered how Katerina managed to find a home here without being able to compel someone.
Elijah's attention snapped back to Eleanor when he heard her approaching with two cups of tea. She reached him his cup before she took a seat opposite to him.
"Please tell me, Mr. Smith, which documents you need exactly. It would be nice if the supplementary insurance was completed quickly."
The Original nodded and eyed Eleanor thoughtfully, trying to address the Katerina topic as quickly as possible. He finally wanted - needed - certainty. But how to achieve this if it's probably not possible to compel?
Elijah reached into the inside of his jacket and pulled out the picture of Katerina, making sure that his thumb is over his own face. It would only raise questions about why they are both in the same photo.
"The supplementary insurance is for this person, right?" he asked and kept his voice professional, his features indifferent, not showing how restless he truly is.
Eleanor squinted her eyes a little bit as she eyed the tiny picture of Katerina that he showed her.
Elijah had a clear idea of how the answer is going to be. It's either a distinct 'no' or confirmation that it's for Katerina (under whatever name she might have introduced herself). However, the actual answer came completely unexpectedly, especially when he heard the actual connection to Eleanor.
"Yes. It's for Maisie. My granddaughter."
A/N: I hope you've liked this chapter and are excited for the next one (most likely not published until next year).
This chapter contained medical terms and actions. I have no medical background, so please forgive any mistakes.
What do you think: Is Maisie Katherine or another doppelgänger? And if you believe Katherine is Maisie and vice versa, how did she manage to pull this stunt? It'll be revealed in the next chapter, including a meeting with Elijah ;)
Please consider leaving feedback as it keeps my muse for writing alive.