A/N: Enjoy. The next chapter has Elijah. I want to thank everyone who reviewed during my absence - it kept me writing. Keep it up. I greatly appreciate it! This chapter has been edited by my beta Casey.
A warm breeze ruffled my hair as I flipped to the next page in my book, though my attention was solely fixed on the odd duo across the street. Mason and Liz were speaking animatedly, and by the look on Liz's face, they weren't talking about the pleasant weather. When Tyler and I returned yesterday, it was to a whole world of drama. Apparently, if I am away for a day, all hell breaks loose. Elena had not been at all helpful in keeping Damon away from Mason, and now, he was pissed. I didn't exactly blame him if Damon had stabbed me with a silver pie server, I'd be pissed off too.
It wasn't only Damon and Mason causing problems, it was also everyone's least favorite super-bitch, Katherine. She had taken it a step further in her plan to send me into a murderous rage, and started threatening Caroline. She wanted information on Stefan and Elena. Now, instead of the day of rest, junk food, and TV that I had planned, I was on clean-up duty. Yay me!
I closed my book with a sharp snap when Mason nodded in Stefan and Damon's direction, drawing Liz's attention.
Damn werewolf.
He was officially on my shit list. I'd had so much hope for him.
Liz turned away from the Salvatores and finished her discussion with Mason, her expression much darker than it had previously been. With a final nod of his head, I watched Mason leave with unease. It was apparent he had sold the Salvatores out to Liz and the council. What the hell was I supposed to do now? Damon would be out for blood. Standing from the bench, I tossed the book into my bag; I hadn't even been able to read it.
This day sucked.
I needed to find Caroline. If I was going to be forced to take on her mother, there was no way I'd do it without her. I stomped away, watching Damon approach Liz from the corner of my eye. This was just going from bad to worse. I headed in the direction I knew my sister and Caroline were in. There was an outdoor painting class going on, and they had chosen to join in. I just hoped I would get there before Elena put on her little performance.
On my way out of the house this morning, I had overheard her and Stefan discussing their ridiculous plan to fake a fight to appease Katherine. As per her usual level of selective awareness, she hadn't noticed her wide open door or the volume of her voice. She really needed to work on that.
Apparently, Katherine was demanding they break up. My guess was she was hoping to throw them off her trail, just as much as they were hoping to throw her off theirs. Katherine was smart, she knew that by making them believe she was only after Stefan, they wouldn't look deeper into why she was really in Mystic Falls. Either way, she was definitely next on my list of things to handle, I was so done with her bullshit.
I passed by the fountain and headed toward the small group of painters in the middle of the park. Elena and Caroline stood side by side, their hair placed in messy buns atop their heads. They both had flecks of paint on their cheeks and were speaking quietly to one another. Caroline was shaking her head and frowning over at Elena. The latter was staring past her easel toward the crowd that had gathered to watch the amateur artists. I followed her gaze and rolled my eyes when I found Stefan standing in her line of sight. It seemed I was just in time to witness their 'fight.'
I started toward Caroline just as Elena headed toward Stefan. Caroline turned toward my approach with a bright relieved smile.
"Hey, Ellie. What are you doing here? You hate painting," she said.
I chuckled, gently leaning against the side of her easel. "I don't hate painting, I just hate the memories that accompany painting."
I felt Caroline's hand fall on my shoulder and quickly shook her off. I turned my head toward her and gave her a brief half-smile, one that I knew didn't reach my eyes. I had too much to deal with right now; I didn't feel like swimming in the past. I turned back around and watched my sister and Stefan, their fake fight was comical at best. I wasn't sure how they expected Caroline to buy into it. With a giant sigh, I turned away from their antics, my face meeting cool leather. I jumped backward, my hand coming up to hover over my chest, heart pounding with startled fright.
Damon smiled down at me, his azure eyes full of amusement. "What's Elena's problem?"
I took in a gulp of air, calming my rapid heartbeat, and angrily crossed my arms, jerking my head, and his question, in Caroline's direction. I wasn't supposed to know what my sister's issue was at the moment. Caroline turned back to her easel, picking up the paintbrush and dabbing it in blue paint. She ran the brush along the top of her canvas, her blonde brows furrowed in annoyance.
"Don't worry about it," she said.
As she continued to aggressively paint, I stepped away from her shaking easel. Damon raised his hand in question, pointing at her with irritation. I tilted my head and watched my sister and Stefan 'argue' from afar. I could tell by the way they tilted their heads, eyes cast down, that both Caroline and Damon were avidly listening in on their conversation. Unfortunately, being mostly human, I didn't have the handy ability of superhuman hearing.
"Why are you such a bitch to your mom?" Damon said snarkily.
His sudden change of subject shocked me, and my brows raised, mouth falling agape. Caroline's head jerked in his direction, and her light blue eyes narrowed. "Don't worry about it," she said dismissively.
I didn't quite understand why Damon thought he could have a civil conversation with Caroline, he had only just tried to kill her. Although, when had Damon ever thought logically. Liz may be his friend, but she was Caroline's mother, and things were rough between them. It was only just last night that I helped Stefan get her back into her house. He and I had been texting back and forth while I was out of town, and I had informed him of my plan to insure Caroline an invitation home. He had made sure it happened. Even after tricking Liz into an invitation, everyone knew it couldn't last forever, especially Caroline.
Liz could see the changes in her daughter, and it was putting a strain on their relationship. We all watched as Elena stormed away from Stefan, her hands clenched in fists at her side. Damon's eyes left her retreating form and fell on Caroline.
"Relationships are about communication," he said.
Caroline glared up at him, her eyes narrowed into slits. She slammed the paintbrush down, her easel shook against the onslaught, and she took my wrist. "Oh please, weren't you engaged when you started screwing Katherine?" she snarled, tilting her head and shoving me towards him with a smug smirk.
My eyes widened, and I covered my mouth in amused, terrified shock. Caroline stood behind me, her hip cocked and a deeply satisfied smile painted on her lips. Damon's wide blue eyes flooded with several different emotions. It was like he was stuck, frozen in shock. I stood between them, my hands hovering and head rocking back and forth, unable to focus on just one of them. Dark veins started to appear beneath Damon's eyes, and he lunged forward. I quickly pulled Caroline out of his reach and started to drag her out of the park. I glanced back to find Damon pacing back and forth, his fingers combing through his hair, nostrils flaring.
"You don't taunt someone stronger than you, Caroline, especially when they were just trying to kill you!" I scolded.
Caroline snorted, rolling her eyes. "He's the one that needs to jump off his paper-thin high horse. If I was going to take advice from someone, it wouldn't be Damon Salvatore."
I shrugged, unable to fight her logic. "Still, please try to keep your heart in your chest, for my sake. Please…" I begged, batting my eyelashes.
Caroline giggled, shaking her head. "Our conversations have gotten so weird," she sighed.
I wrapped my arm around her and led her toward my car, the one place I knew we could have some privacy.
"Totally, but such is the life of a cursed witch and a sexy immortal vampire," I said, winking at her.
Crossing the street, we jogged our way to my car, slipping inside. I started up the engine and put the radio on low. Turning in my seat, I faced Caroline with a frown.
"Okay, Care, we have a problem, and I'm gonna need your help."
Caroline rubbed her arm, her head tilted to the side. "When don't we have a problem," she said petulantly.
I puffed out my cheeks and released a breath. Right she was.
"I think Mason outed the Salvatores to your mom," I said, grimacing as her face paled.
She leaned forward, her hands covering her face. "Oh God, if she finds out about them, it's only a short jump to finding out about me. She will kill me, Elara. She hates vampires!" She looked into my eyes, her own wide and glassy. "I don't want my mom to hate me; she's all I have!"
I took her hand and brought it to my chest. "She will not hate you, Caroline. You will help her see how wrong she is about your kind. She will eventually see that her daughter isn't gone, and that not every vampire is a monster. It will be hard, but it's not impossible."
Caroline sniffled, rubbing her nose with her other hand. She leaned into me and laid her head on my shoulder. "Thank you for always being there for me, Ellie," she said.
I smiled sadly into her hair, my heart was heavy. "I will always be here, Care," I lowered my voice to a whisper, just under my breath. "for as long as I'm able..."
Caroline let go of my hand and pushed herself away from me, brushing her hair from her wet face. "I hate that you always say that. 'For as long as I'm able.' You are not going anywhere!" she said, pointing her paint-stained finger in my face.
I sighed heavily, my shoulders sagging. "Caroline, I-I, Ugh, we need to find Damon and Stefan, " I stuttered.
There would be time later for bringing everyone to terms with my fate, right now, I was more worried about the fate of the Salvatores. At least we could do something about theirs. Before I could say much else, Caroline slipped out of the car, slamming the door behind her. The car rocked with her effort, and I rubbed my forehead, the stress of the day seeping into my muscles. I could hear Caroline's phone ringing and quickly exited the car, joining her behind it. I quietly watched as she answered her phone, her shoulders stiffening the longer she talked to whoever it was.
"Whoa, Elena, slow down. Where in the woods? Okay, we are on our way; just stay right there," she said, hanging up.
I stepped closer to her at the sound of my sister's name, my fingers twirling around one another. "What's happening?" I asked, eyes darting over her stressed face.
"Elena saw Damon and Stefan follow Mason into the woods, and when she went to find them, she heard gunshots; now they are gone," she said, running her fingers through her hair.
I quickly took her arm and stepped closer to her, glancing around to make sure no one was watching us. "Well, let's go. They could be dead already for all we know."
I wasn't used to being this far behind, I thought I had more time, but Mason and Liz had moved fast. Caroline wrapped her arms around me, and, with one final glance around, she bolted away. I closed my eyes and tried to steady my stomach. The uncomfortable, tickling sensation made it feel like I would need to swallow down my organs when we finally stopped. My hair whipped me in the face as we flew forward, and I buried my nose in Caroline's soft shirt. The harsh wind died down, and Caroline took my arms tightly in her grasp, pushing me away.
"We made it, El, you can open your eyes now," she laughed.
I slowly pried open my eyes and placed a hand on my abdomen, leaning forward with a pained moan. "That never gets easier on my stomach," I said, swallowing down a lump in my throat.
Caroline patted my arm and walked away. "It's nothing when you're the one doing the running," she said, waving her hand dismissively.
Standing up, I released a breath and followed Caroline further into the woods. We found Elena standing against a tree, her hands fisted in her shirt. "Oh, thank God, finally," she said, voice rough and eyes bloodshot.
Caroline ignored her and started heading forward, her gaze trained on the ground, nose twitching. I walked beside Elena quietly, and we both watched Caroline examining the ground. In my rushed and nervous state, I tried to remember she had senses we did not. Stopping in her tracks, Caroline caught us both by surprise, and I brought my arm out to prevent Elena from colliding with her.
"What is it? Elena asked.
Bending down, Caroline brushed the dirt away from a damaged plant near her feet. I came up beside her, leaning down to see what had caught the attention of her keen senses.
"They've been here," she said, turning to me.
On the edge of the plant was a small spattering of blood.
"Shit," I cursed. "We need to find them."
Caroline's head snapped up, and she stood, stepping in front of me as I rose to join her. I could see the tension forming in her shoulders and was confused by her sudden change until I heard a rustling in front of us.
"What are you three doing out here?" Mason asked, stepping out from behind a tree.
I closed my eyes and lifted my head heavenward, in utter defeat. It was like he wanted to die. Elena stepped passed us and crossed her arms, scowling at the werewolf.
"Have you seen Stefan?" she said.
I stepped around Caroline, smiling at her reassuringly when she gripped my arm, blue eyes gleaming with fear. "Or by chance, Damon?' I sighed.
"Yeah, I've seen him. Seen Damon, too," he said, slapping his hands together with a smirk.
I closed my hands into fists, allowing my fingernails to dig into the palms of my hands to help me control my spirling temper. This was a feud that dated back to the very beginning, and I had to remember that Damon could be just as bad.
"Mason. Where? Are? They?" I said, between clenched teeth.
Crossing his arms, he smiled, his gaze falling on Caroline. "You don't need me for that, Ellie. I'll let your friend here sniff them out. Although I thought you were better than this, I thought you were better than befriending the likes of them," he said, motioning to Caroline. Mason then glared at Caroline, and his brows knitted together. "Does your mother know what you are? I'm happy to tell her for you..."
Caroline's eyes flashed with anger, and she moved toward him. He quickly dodged her, catching Elena from behind and wrapping an arm under her chin. She gasped in fear, her strangled cry of terror sent chills up my spine.
I felt a static tingle flow into the palms of my hands, and let out an angry, frustrated shout. I had tried to protect him, I had claimed him as my own — and this was how I was to be repaid?
Mason had yet to take his eyes off of Caroline, who he perceived to be the greater threat. She moved toward him, a simple crunch of leaves under her feet, and Mason tightened his hold on Elena's neck.
"Don't be stupid!" Mason snarled. "Necks snap easily around here."
"We can take you," Caroline warned, her lips twitching.
Mason frowned, his forehead puckering in confusion. I lifted my hand, flicking my fingers, and sent a burst of energy toward Mason's shoulder. It collided with him, and his body twisted. He released Elena, and let out a whistle of pain, his face paling in shock. I quickly stepped forward, reaching out and taking Elena's hand. I pulled her behind me and backed away, my arms outstretched to protect her.
Caroline took the opening I had given and rushed forward, kneeing Mason in the groin. She forced him down on all fours and kicked him in the stomach, sending him flying against a tree. His body slid down the bark, falling into a heap on the ground.
"Come on," she said, waving us toward her.
I pulled Elena after me, and we followed Caroline in the direction we had seen Mason appear. As we continued on, I realized I was starting to recognize the area. I released Elena's hand and ran ahead, leaving Caroline behind in my haste. Following Mason the other day was about to come in handy.
Stepping into the clearing, I let out a relieved breath when I found the stone ruin a few feet away; it was the same place that Mason had come to lock himself in for the full moon. We were on Lockwood's property. He must have loaned the cellar out to Liz so that she would have someplace to take Damon and Stefan. I heard heavy breathing behind me and turned to Elena's approach.
"What is that?" she asked, jerking her head toward the cellar.
Caroline joined me, coming to stand on my other side, and I turned my attention back to the cellar.
"I'm not a hundred percent sure, but I think it's a cellar; what I do know is that this is The Lockwood's property," I said.
Caroline tilted her head and squeezed her eyes shut. Elena and I both turned, staring her down. I felt my heart speeding up at her pained expression.
"Caroline?" I said.
Elena took her arm and shook her gently, her eyes wide and frantic. "What is it?" she said.
Caroline's eyes snapped open, and she looked at us, her blue orbs misty. "My mom. She is killing them..."
"What?" Elena shouted, her body shifting toward the cellar.
Without thought, Elena pushed through the trees, rushing toward the moss-covered ruin. With one last look at Caroline, I followed behind her. I understood Caroline's fear, but I couldn't just stand by and let Damon and Stefan die.
I felt a tight grasp on my wrist and was yanked backward, the heels of my shoes pulling up clumps up of dirt. Caroline spun me around, pulling me into her chest, her pale skin was tinged with pink.
"No, no, no, no," Caroline begged, her blonde hair flying around her face — almost as frantically as her words.
Taking her hand, I pried her fingers from my wrist. "I'm sorry, Care, but we have to stop her. We can't just let them die," I said, backing away.
I turned, grateful to see my sister waiting for me at the cellar entrance, her brown eyes round and wary.
"Elara, I can't. She is gonna find out about me." Caroline cried. "Ellie, please!"
I closed my eyes and shook off my best friends pleas, though it killed me to do so. I focused on my sister and her extended hand, which I gratefully accepted. We carefully took the stone steps leading down into the cellar. Reaching out, I ran my fingers across the cold, damp walls as we crept deeper into the darkness; the cool, musty air was tinged with a hint of copper, and I felt my heart skip a beat. Elena's grip on my arm tightened, and I tried to keep us both upright as we continued, my useless human eyes squinting to try and find some hint of light in the pitch-black.
"Elara, can you use a spell or something to help us see?" Elena whispered, her breath warm against my ear.
I brought my face closer to hers so that she could see my annoyed expression, and brought my finger to my lips, shaking my head. I didn't want to light up the passageway and alert the sheriff, or anyone else, that we were here. Ahead of us, I could finally make out a small hint of light — an orange glow that flickered against the stone walls. It was the entrance to a cell. I felt a shiver run down my spine and shook it off. I held out my arm, stopping Elena in her tracks. I pointed toward a thick plank of wood that was dancing in orange light, and back to her, hoping she understood my plan. With a nod, Elena grabbed the wood, wielding it with an angry fierceness in her eyes. I steadied myself as I looked around for something to throw. As my eyes were scanning our surroundings, I felt the edge of my shoe come into contact with something solid. I bent down, finding a large brown rock.
Perfect.
I motioned for Elena to move into the shadows and ran the rock over the bars on the cell door. I backed away and hid in a corner a few feet away. I kept my eyes on Elena and watched as she lifted the plank, readying it, and herself, as we heard someone shuffling toward us.
The Deputy pushed open the cell door and stepped into the hall, his eyes squinting in the semi-darkness. Elena ran forward, hitting him atop the head with as much force as she could muster. With a grunt of pain, he fell forward, slamming to the ground, a cloud of dirt rising around his face. Elena and I shared a nod, and she bolted through the cell door. I stared wide-eyed, my breath catching in my throat, and followed after her, grumbling at her complete devotion to danger.
The cell door closed loudly behind me, and I found Elena standing shell shocked a few steps away, her eyes focused on the ground. I was too wrapped up in the gun pointed at her head to follow her gaze.
"Elena! What are you doing here?" Liz asked, the gun shaking in her hand.
She was standing in the middle of the room, her arm stiff as she continued to aim her weapon at my sister's head. Elena's hands were raised in surrender, but her eyes never left Liz's feet. I finally followed her gaze, and there were Damon and Stefan, both bound, gagged, and unconscious.
Elena took a tentative step forward and turned her glaring gaze on Liz. "You can't kill them. I'm not gonna let you,"
Liz moved her gun, pointing it in my direction, and Elena flinched — sidestepping toward me.
"And you? What are you doing here, huh?" she weakly asked.
I could see the sad fear in her eyes. I was her daughter's best friend, and she knew the implications if she were to kill me.
"Damon and Stefan are family, Liz. Same as you and Caroline. I protect what's mine, no matter how complicated things get. Not every vampire is a monster; try and remember that," I said, my voice tired yet firm.
Liz shook her head, the grip on her gun tightening. I heard a metallic creaking from behind and glanced over my shoulder. The cell door shut behind the Deputy, and he was closing in on us, one hand on his holstered gun. Before I could move, he pressed the heel of his foot behind my knee, forcing me to the ground. I stumbled forward, catching myself on my palms, tiny pebbles dug into my skin, and I sat up on legs, brushing my skinned hands off on my jeans.
I glared up at him as he grabbed Elena by her shoulder and shoved her down next to me, his gun at the ready. Elena huffed in anger, her eyes never leaving Liz as she dug through a bag lying next to Stefan's head.
At the sound of the door swinging open and closing by itself, the Deputy's aim diverted away from us and toward the entrance.
"What was that?" he said, eyes darting to Liz.
Sliding my hand across the stone floor, I connected my fingers with Elena's, catching her attention. Her sweaty forehead puckered in question, and I ran my eyes to the ground and back as I lowered myself to the floor.
Her mouth fell into an 'O' shape, and she followed my lead, lying on her stomach. Liz pointed her gun in our direction, waving it between the two of us, eyes darting around.
"Who else is with you?" she said.
I kept my fingers connected with my sisters and took a deep breath. I prayed to the Gods that Caroline had the strength she needed. A stiff breeze lilted through the air, and a few strands of my hair rose up as a loud scream erupted above us. Elena squeezed her eyes shut, the grip she had on my hand tightening as if she were trying to fight against what was happening. Liz gasped in sheer fear, a strangled sob of disbelief falling from her lips.
I pulled my fingers from Elena's grasp and pushed myself onto my knees. I raised my hands and very slowly stood to my feet.
I kept my eyes on Liz and stepped in front of where I knew Caroline stood. I wasn't ready to turn around yet, despite the fact that I knew she had killed the Deputy, I wasn't entirely ready to see the proof of it. I could hear the wet sound of blood meeting stone and forced myself to keep any signs of discomfort from my face. I had to show Liz that Caroline was no monster.
I nodded at Liz, and with a calming gesture of reassurance, I slowly started to turn toward my best friend. In her arms, she held the Deputy, his neck seeping thick red blood. Caroline's nose and mouth were covered in it. I avoided the crimson liquid, and instead, connected with her blue orbs, the uncertainty in their depths was enough to reassure me that she was still my Caroline.
I shared a brief but sincere smile with her, and she let out a heavy breath, her chest visibly shaking. She needed a constant, and I could, and would, be that for her. Caroline looked over my shoulder, her gaze locking with her mothers.
"Hi mom," she said, shrugging weakly as she dropped the Deputy.
Caroline stepped over the body and hovered in front of her shocked mother. I casually stepped beside Liz, taking the gun from her grasp. Thankfully she didn't protest as I clicked on the safety and placed it in the waistband of my jeans.
Elena crawled over to Stefan, pulling him into her lap, her hand hovering over his chest. I bent down next to her and examined his injuries, sighing at the bullet wounds.
"He's been shot." I dabbed my finger in the leftover blood on his shirt and licked it off. I grimaced at the taste of vervain.
"Vervain infused bullets," I said, spitting.
Elena wrinkled her nose in disgust. "Ugh, was that necessary?" she asked.
I met her gaze and shrugged. "Please, it's not like you've never tasted him before," I said, shooting her a smirk.
Her cheeks tinted pink, and she turned away, unable to look me in the eye. With a chuckle, I raised my open hand above the injured vampire and closed my eyes, concentrating on that ever-familiar flicker of power within me. I could feel the static tingle trickle through my veins, and could hear the outraged shock of Liz. Opening my eyes, I could sense my magic wrapping around the bullets.
Elena's eyes darted from my hand, and back to Stefan's chest, as they were pulled free, suspended in midair. I twisted my hand in a circle, and the small pieces of copper flew into my awaiting palm. I sat back and waited as Elena ran her shaky fingers through her boyfriend's matted hair.
Finally, with a pained grimace, Stefan's eyes fluttered open. Elena gasped, a sob escaping her throat. I smiled as she threw herself on top of him. Tossing the bullets to the side, I moved on to Damon. I quickly removed the bullets embedded in his chest and waited for him to open his eyes.
Unlike his brother, he didn't come to slowly. As soon as the bullets were removed from his chest, his eyes snapped open, their oceanic depths alert even if his body were depleted. He tried to lift himself from the cold ground, and I pushed his shoulders down. It was a testament to his weak state that I was able to overpower him.
"Stop!" I warned, pointing a glowing finger at his nose.
He glared but laid his head back against the stone, a wince turning down his pouting lips.
"Now listen here, Salvatore. You have vervain in your system. It's gonna take you time, and blood, to heal. I won't have you overdoing it and desiccating yourself. Or worse, going against the wrong person and getting a stake to the heart," I said, leaning back on my heels and placing my hands on my thighs.
Damon rolled his eyes and glanced around, finally taking in his surroundings.
"Where the hell are we?" he asked, eyes narrowing in on Liz, who had taken a seat on the ground in the corner.
I stood up and brushed off my legs, watching Caroline pace back and forth in front of her silent mother.
"We are in a cellar on the Lockwood's property," I said.
Damon sat up slowly, scanning the dark room. I knew that even with the small bit of light that Liz and her Deputy had provided, he was able to see things we could not.
"Hmm, and I just wonder what they use it for," he said.
I bent down and smacked his shoulder, pointing to Liz. "Don't you think vampires are enough for now? Let's keep the werewolf population to ourselves, yeah?" I whispered.
Damon leaned back on one arm and sighed, nodding. In the dim light, I could see how pale his skin was, and bit my lip. He needed to eat, and I doubt Liz would be happy about me feeding him. The shadow encased body of the Deputy caught my eye, and I felt my stomach roll.
Waste not, want not, I guess.
I bent down and took Damon's arm, laying it over my shoulder. "You need to eat so you can heal properly," I said, helping him stand.
I walked Damon over to the Deputy's body and sat him down. I turned away as he bent over to feed. Caroline ran her fingers through her hair and, noticing the blood, grimaced. She stepped away from her mother and moved to the other side of the cell. I stood by Damon and nervously tapped my foot, chewing on my lip. I was so absorbed in my own thoughts, that when Damon spoke, the sound of his voice had me jumping out of my skin.
"You need to drink some Deputy blood," he said.
I took a few deep, calming breaths, and tried to understand why he wanted me to drink the Deputy's blood, until I heard Stefan shift next to Elena, a pained groan rumbling in his throat.
"No. I'm gonna be fine. It's just gonna take a little bit longer," he said, his breathing ragged.
I felt terrible. I had forgotten all about Stefan and his diet. I slapped my forehead and tried to remember where I had last hidden my black backpack of vampire-related supplies. I had refilled Stefan's 'vegetarian' blood bottle last time he needed it, so I knew I had enough to heal him.
With my eyes still closed, I visualized the hollow wall I had created in my closet. It's where I now spelled and hid away my most secret and dangerous belongings. I ignored the milky moonstone shining on a wooden beam, the old fragile Grimoires spelled to stay intake, and even the dark wooden stakes. I resolutely avoided the light pale wood I had located just in case I ever came into contact with Mikael.
Instead, I focused on the black backpack hanging on a nail. With a snap of my fingers, I opened my eyes — catching the bag as it appeared in midair. I pulled one of the straps over my arm and unzipped the top. I dug around inside to find the black water bottle. My fingers ran across the oval-shaped cap, and I pulled it out. With a gentle swish, I double-checked the contents before tossing it into Stefan's lap. He grunted in confusion, and I nodded at the bottle, narrowing my eyes.
"It's Thumper, and you better be grateful. That fucker is hard to catch," I said, shaking away the memory.
Stefan lifted the bottle and swiftly unfastened the cap. He obviously remembered the last time I had offered it to him and still trusted me to follow his diet.
"Thumper?" he asked, taking a long swig and closing his eyes.
Elena rubbed her forehead with a sigh. "I-Its rabbit, Stefan."
Stefan looked up at me, the dark veins under his eyes sent shivers down my spine.
"Thank you, Ellie," he said.
I shrugged, zipping up the bag and tossing it over my shoulder. "Just heal up so we can get the fuck outta here."
"At least you don't have to break your diet now. How do you always do that, Elara; save everyone," Caroline said, sighing.
She sat down against the wall and pulled her legs up, dropping her chin atop her knees. I shook my head regretfully, remembering all too well the people I had failed to help, the many incarnations of myself included.
"I don't, Caroline. There are so many people I couldn't save. That's part of the reason I over-prepare for every scenario,"
Damon sat up, cleaning off his mouth with his hand. His gaze fell on the Deputy's body and then Liz. He glanced up at me, and we shared a knowing look. He knew exactly what I was talking about. He turned back to Liz and scanned her pale, empty face, his blue eyes filled with unease. She was a friend, and Damon Salvatore had too few of those. He was a selfish being when it came to the people he cared about.
"This is a most unfortunate situation. A deputy dead and you-" he placed his arms on his knees. "-What are we gonna do with you," he said, standing to his feet.
I crossed my arms and watched her lift her head, meeting his gaze with dead eyes, defeat plain on her face. Caroline sped to her side, bending down to try and catch her attention.
"You won't tell anyone, will you, mom? Please. Look, I know that we don't get along and that you hate me, but I'm your daughter, and you'll do this for me, right? Mom, please. He will kill you," she pleaded.
I felt tears well up and turned away, unable to see such a dead look in Liz's eyes after hearing the love and hurt in Caroline's voice. Liz avoided her daughter and instead met Damon's gaze.
"Then kill me," she said.
I covered my mouth and swallowed a sob on my friend's behalf.
"No!" Caroline shouted, stepping in front of her mother.
Liz leaned away from Caroline, her lips pulled up in disgust. "I can't take this. Kill me now," she said.
Caroline looked down in pained shock, giving Damon enough room to bend down in front of Liz.
"But you were gonna drag it out so painfully," he said, taking her by the shoulder and pulling her to her feet.
He drug her to my side, and I watched in sadness as she went limp, no fight left in her. He pulled her to a stop, and his glossy eyes met mine. I held his challenging gaze. I knew what he wanted from me. He wanted me to plead for Liz's life the same way the others were; he wanted to see if I would believe he was the monster they thought him to be.
Since his attempt on Jeremy's life, and then Caroline's, our relationship had been strained at best. I felt I had made my point when Bonnie went all 'psycho witch,' but he still felt he deserved worse, even if he would never admit it. I had been expecting this moment, the moment he thought I would turn on him. I shook my head, pursing my lips in annoyance, and glanced around him at the frantic crowd. His mouth set in a hard line, and he ran his fingers through his hair as he continued to observe me.
Caroline stepped in front of him, blocking his view of my stern expression, and he grumbled in frustration.
"No, no, no, no," Caroline cried, reaching out for her mother.
Stefan held Caroline back and took a step toward his brother, hand raised.
"Damon, don't!" he said.
Damon rolled his eyes, glaring, as he turned to face the pleading group. "Relax, guys. No one is killing anybody," he said, wrapping an arm around Liz. He looked down at the shocked Sheriff in his arms, his pale face soft. "You're my friend."
Glancing at the nearly drained deputy, he turned back toward me, frowning. "We've gotta clean this up," he said, sighing.
An hour later, I leaned against the stone wall outside The Salvatore's cellar, listening to Liz finish her phone call. She had been told to call in for the next few days. Damon had decided it would be best if she stayed at the Boarding House until she could be compelled to forget what she had learned. Of course, no one listened to my advice. They were only delaying the inevitable. Liz would figure everything out again eventually. Her daughter is a vampire; it would be easier for everyone if she remembered the truth.
I heard Damon's warning 'tisk' when Liz started to trail off, obviously considering whether she could get away with telling someone what was really going on. I waited with bated breath until Liz hung up, thankfully, giving nothing away. There was shuffling as she handed over the phone, and I let out a relieved sigh.
"Thank you. It's not exactly the Ritz, but it's secure. Brought you a good thread count. Once the vervains worked its way out of your system, I will compel you, you will forget everything, and you will be a free woman," Damon said.
I pushed away from the wall as I heard someone maneuvering down the steps, their feet scraping against the concrete. Stefan, Elena, and Caroline joined me at the cell.
"How's she doing?" Caroline asked.
I released a huff of breath and shrugged, glancing at the door. "As well as we can expect. This is a big blow to everything she was taught to believe; it's gonna take some time, but she will come around. She loves you," I said.
I rubbed her shoulders as Stefan opened the door to the cell. He stepped back to allow Elena room to enter first, and I noticed Caroline freeze, her eyes darting back and forth. She frantically nibbled on her lower lip, her chest rising and falling in rapid succession. Before Elena could step inside, Caroline shoved the bag she was holding at her chest.
"Maybe you should take this to her. I think I should stay away for a bit. She needs some time and space," Caroline said, swallowing deeply.
With an understanding smile, Elena headed inside, Stefan following her. I took Caroline's hand and pulled her away from the door, my thumb rubbing circles on her smooth skin. Our backs against the stone wall, we both scooted down to the floor.
"I don't think she is gonna get past this," Caroline sniffled, her words thick with unshed tears.
I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her against my side — her head falling onto the crook of my neck. As we sat there, hard steel words floated toward us past the heavy cell door, and I felt my heart break as Caroline quietly sobbed into my chest.
"Can you keep Caroline away from me, please? I don't wanna see her," Liz said.
I could see Damon's shadow dancing on the floor in front of us and felt grateful that there was at least one person in there to put Liz straight.
"She's your daughter, Liz," he said.
"Not anymore. My daughter is gone," Liz spat, every word laced with pain.
I could feel that she truly believed Caroline was gone, and I hoped that someday we could get through to her. There had to be a way to help her see that her daughter was still right here, only slightly altered. Caroline's sobs strengthened, and I held her tighter against me, humming her favorite song, a vain attempt to ease her suffering.
"You have no idea how wrong you are about that," he said.
The cell door creaked open, and Damon stepped out, his blue eyes crinkled in sympathy. I laid my head back against the stone wall and drew in the corner of my bottom lip to keep in my own tears.
"She won't remember any of this, and things will go back to normal," he said.
He shut the cell door behind him with a loud metallic snap. I clenched my jaw shut and shook my head, rocking Caroline in my arms.
"Not everyone will forget, Damon," I said.
With a nod, he backed away, leaving Caroline to her grief. After her tears turned to dry sobs, I helped her to her feet and led her upstairs to the sitting room. Lowering myself in front of her, I cleaned her face with my hands.
"Everything will be okay," I said.
Caroline shook her head, her watery eyes round. "No, no, it's not. My mom hates me, and I'm all alone now. I can't go home, Elara," she said hiccupping.
I stood and lowered myself into the seat next to her, pulling her hands into my lap. "Tell me whats going on, Caroline. I can tell there is more bothering you than just your mother," I said.
Caroline yanked her hands away and jumped to her feet, pacing in front of me. She ran her hands down her face and onto her neck, her blue eyes sparkling with anger.
"It's that bitch, Katherine. I told you she's been threatening me. She wants information on Elena and Stefan. I'm supposed to spy on them and report to her, but I guess I wasn't doing a good enough job because now she is threatening Matty," she said.
I gripped onto the couch cushions, my nails biting into the fabric. I used the sensation to keep my cool. I took a beat to breathe in and out, and sat back, narrowing my eyes. I rolled my shoulders and cleared my throat.
"Okay, well then. I think it's about time we took care of Miss. Petrova," I said, connecting my fingers atop my crossed knees.
Caroline's brows furrowed, and she shrugged, raising her arms. "Okay. And? How do we do that?" she asked.
I reached into my bag and pulled out my phone. Humming softly, I scrolled through my contacts and sent a few quick texts. We would need the whole gang for what I had planned.
"Well, the first step is to call a meeting. Then we put a plan together. Which lucky for you guys, I have already done."
I had been planning this for ages, and I had a foolproof way to take Katherine down. I slipped my phone back into my bag and sat back, turning my face toward the ceiling.
"Calling all Salvatore's! Oh, and could one of you grab Elena? There is going to be a meeting in the sitting room. Thank you!" I said loudly.
I smiled up at Caroline, who rolled her eyes and sat down next to me, claiming her seat. Within seconds, Damon stood in front of us, and I motioned for him to take a seat, a bright smile on my face.
"When did the two of you start making plans together?" he said, eyeing Caroline with a steely expression.
I brushed away his question and glanced around for Stefan and Elena. With a tight jaw, Damon stepped into my line of sight.
"You think you can just call for us like cattle? " he asked, tapping his foot.
I snickered, raising a brow. "Well, you answered, didn't you? Really, Damon, you're a vampire. Why would I bother using your cell when I know you can hear me?" I said, shrugging.
Damon ran his hand over his face, sighing. "That's…that's not the point. I'm not your dog. You can't just holler and expect me to come." He stepped closer to me, his gaze continuing to flicker to Caroline and the space she occupied next to me. With his fingers racing through his raven locks, he shook his head. "When did you and Caroline decide it was time for a meeting? I didn't realize the two of you were a 'team,'" he said using air quotes.
His venom laced words caught my attention, and I tilted my head, raising my index finger to stop his next words before they formed. I was trying to piece together his sudden and rather odd ruminations. His mood swings always left me feeling wrong side out.
"Okay, Damon, you'll have to forgive me. One second your cattle, and then the next your my dog, or rather not my dog. I'm a little confused here," I said, placing my head in my hands.
My mind would use times like this to remind me that this was a man I had planned to marry. A man I had planned to have children with. Very beautiful, most likely very Bipolar children. Caroline unsuccessfully suppressed a nervous giggle beside me, and I elbowed her in the ribs. With a sharp glare in her direction, Damon threw up his hand and headed toward the bar. Caroline cleared her throat and bounced her foot — her nerves coming out to play.
"Well, that went well," she said, watching Damon angrily pour himself a drink.
"What's his problem?" she asked.
Scoffing, I blinked, trying to figure out what he had been trying to say. I had too many problems at the moment to add another.
"I don't know, Care, but I feel like I should. I'm slipping." I chuckled, rubbing my forehead.
I watched Damon silently drink, his brow furrowed and lips pursed. Caroline laid her head on my shoulder, and I felt her release a sigh.
"You have enough on your plate without Damon adding more," she said.
I raked my fingers through her hair and kept an eye on Damon until Stefan and Elena came into the room, hand in hand.
Elena released Stefan's hand, sending him a smile, and then turned back to me — her lips pressing into a stern hard line. She pinched the bridge of her nose and stood in front of me.
"Okay, what is this all about, Elara? I mean, you called a meeting? What could you possibly need to do that for?" she said.
Stefan stood where she had left him, scratching at his neck awkwardly. I shot him a half-smile and sat forward, Caroline almost plopping into my lap. She smacked at my arm, and I grinned, pushing her away as I focused.
"Elena, we all have a problem, and we need to take care of it. Katherine is out of control, and she is going to get someone killed. With Caroline, we all got extremely lucky." I turned to Caroline and squeezed her hand, showing her the support I knew she needed. Turning back to my sister, I rose to my feet, staring her down. "I know you and Stefan have had your own issues with her, and I can promise you, it will only get worse. Whatever she has planned has little to do with Stefan. He and your relationship are only her chosen distraction, but that won't stop her from having some fun at your expense," I said, my eyes darting between my sister and her vampire lover.
Elena shrank away from me, her hands in her hair. "What do you expect us to do? She is stronger than Stefan and Damon, we can't just kill her,"
Damon released a mirthless laugh, only slightly muffled by the crystal glass he held to his upturned lips.
"The idea that any of you could kill Katherine is laughable," he said.
I balled my hands into fists and glowered in his direction. He really did underestimate me. If I wanted to, I could kill Katherine, he thought too highly of her. I stepped closer to Elena, steepling my fingers.
"I don't want to kill Katherine; I want to trap her. There will come a time to kill her, but that's not now. I need you guys to trust me," I said, my eyes falling in earnest on those surrounding me.
Damon sat his drink down and crossed his arms, glancing at Stefan.
"Trap her?" Stefan asked.
"The tomb, it's the perfect place to hold someone like her. Pretty poetic as well, don't ya think? I can easily raise the spell that the Bennetts were planning to use to trap Damon,"
Elena rubbed her arm nervously, her eyes falling on Stefan and Damon.
"Why trap her? You are asking for our trust, but I need to understand why you need it? What aren't you telling us?" she said.
I crossed my arms and looked down at my feet, grateful when I heard the creak of the front door and the shuffling of feet.
Glancing up, I saw Alaric and Jeremy, their faces anxious as they scanned the room.
"Ellie texted, she said there was going to be a meeting about Katherine?" Jeremy said.
Elena's fierce brown eyes landed on me and narrowed, her nose wrinkling. "Did she now?"
I held up my hands, my back stiffening, ready for her anger.
"He has every right to be here, Elena. He knows what is at stake, and would be in danger regardless of his involvement. He's a Gilbert, and our brother. That's just a fact. I would rather he learn how to defend himself. Besides, we could use the help," I said shrugging.
Elena scoffed, turning away and shaking her head, straight brown hair falling over her shoulders.
"That's ridiculous; he could die! He is too young to be dealing with stuff like this!" she said.
I laughed at her outrage and insistence. I understood where she was coming from, but Jeremy was only two years younger than we were, and no matter how hard she tried to keep him away from the supernatural, it wouldn't matter in the end.
"Elena, you are not his mother, and he's not that young," I simply said.
I took in my shocked brother, his cheeks red from embarrassment. I winced, my own cheeks burning as I realized I had just argued on his behalf in front of a room full of men. I rubbed the back of my neck and felt all eyes on me.
"Um, well, we are still waiting for one person, and then I will explain my plan in full."
Alaric chuckled as he poured himself a drink, and I felt my cheeks flame, my palms sweating. I hated being the center of attention. Caroline joined me and could see her smile from the corner of my eye. She could sense my discomfort.
"Who are we waiting for?" Jeremy asked.
The front door creaked open again, and I heard quick footsteps. A sweaty, red-faced Tyler Lockwood rushed into the room, earbuds in his ears. He was wearing a black tracksuit and blue tennis shoes. He had obviously run here.
My brow raised, and I ran my eyes over his energetic form. His chest rose and fell as he took in a deep breath, removing his earbuds.
"Hey, sorry I'm late," he said, smiling over at me.
I chuckled, shaking my head and motioning for him to take a seat. Tyler winked at Caroline as he passed, and I blinked a few times, surprised by his upbeat mood. Caroline blushed prettily, but rolled her eyes, glaring at him as she turned away, focusing on me.
"Why is Lockwood here," Jeremy spat, glaring at Tyler as he plopped down on the couch.
Tyler smirked, puckering his lips at Jeremy. I placed a hand on my forehead and sighed.
"Tyler is here because I asked him to be. He is my friend, and I trust him," I said, a matter of fact.
Damon snorted, slamming his glass down on the bar. Alaric flinched and turned, keeping an uneasy eye on the mercurial vampire.
"And I guess we should all just trust you, huh? Ignoring the fact that his Uncle is a werewolf," Damon said, running his hand down his face. "You are asking for a lot of trust here lately, Elandra."
Tyler sat forward, narrowed eyes firmly on Damon. Elena stepped toward me and reached out, running a hand down my arm.
"Elara, I want to trust you, but you have to give us something. A reason…" she said, her voice cracking.
I stepped back, scoffing lightly and turned toward Damon.
"I have never given you a reason not to trust me. I have been there for you every step of the way when no one else was. I know that trust is hard for you, but after everything, shouldn't I be the one that asks you for a reason to trust?"
I looked at Stefan and Elena next. I couldn't tell them everything, but I could at least give them a warning that something was coming.
"Katherine is here because she is preparing for something. There is someone older and stronger out there, and Mystic Falls has something he needs. I really can't say more, it would only cause problems. I have been preparing for it, and I swear, I can protect everyone. I have enough time left to make sure everything turns out okay,"
Elena's face paled, her hand clutching at the sleeves of her shirt. Jeremy stepped forward, his hand rubbing at his neck.
"Why can't you tell us who is coming?" he asked the tone of his voice even despite the way his jaw ticked.
I twisted my neck, lifting my face to the ceiling, my fingers coming up to rub my temples. Tyler stood next to me, bumping Caroline from her ever-constant position at my side. She huffed, her blue eyes flashing with annoyance.
"Ellie has done everything she can to prepare for this guy. If she told you everything about him, then you would try to run, or worse, fight him. Then he would kill us all. Why do you think Katherine is so afraid of him?" Tyler said, giving away more than I would have liked him to.
I would have to make sure Katherine would be forced to keep her mouth shut about the Original family. I couldn't have Elena pressing her for info. It would only cause more fear and unneeded drama. Damon glared at Tyler, his lips pursed in anger. Tyler raised a challenging brow.
Damon's eyes darkened, and I stepped in front of Tyler before VampWolf Friday Night SmackDown could break out.
I pointed my finger between the two. "Cool the testosterone, please."
I lifted my hand and pressed it against Tyler's chest, backing him away from a fuming Damon.
"Tyler is right. Katherine is afraid for a very good reason. This guy is one of the oldest vampires alive. He is not to be messed with. It's best if you let me handle it. I have never given any of you a reason to not trust me. I have always come through for you. So please, just give me your trust and let me handle it."
Caroline took my wrist, her blue eyes shining. "I trust you, Elara. I will always trust you." She looked at Tyler, and her eyes darkened. "You're my best friend, so of course, I am on your side."
Her fingertips ran over the silver bracelet clasped around my wrist, and I looked at her questioningly. She pulled away and nonchalantly lifted her hand, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. The silver of her matching bracelet contrasted beautifully with her pale skin. I had removed the vervain so she could still wear it after her transition. I placed my hand over my mouth, covering the smile growing on my lips.
Was she jealous?
Tyler's brown orbs darted to my face, and I widened my eyes, the fullness of my cheeks, giving away a smile I was trying so hard to hide.
"Best friend, huh? Well, I better steer clear then. Sisters before misters and all that," Tyler said, whistling awkwardly.
My chest shook with a giggle, and I coughed through it. Caroline's glare was enough to stiffen the mood. Elena placed a hand on my shoulder, and I spun around to meet her.
"All I can promise is to try, Elara. But I have people to protect too, and you and I have different ways of doing that. We always have," she said.
I nodded and took my sister's hand. "Elena, I will not let anyone you care about get hurt. I still have a few months, and that is plenty of time for what I need to do," I said, hoping to reassure her.
Elena tilted her head and pulled her hand from mine. She walked back toward Stefan, and I extended my hand in confusion.
I watched as she placed her hands on her head, her fingers raking through her hair. Stefan looked at me, his soft, warm eyes understanding, and shook his head, taking Elena into his arms. Jeremy and Alaric stepped up next to me, and Alaric handed me a glass of bourbon. I chuckled weakly and lifted the glass in thanks.
"Just don't tell Jenna," he said.
Jeremy massaged the back of his neck and nodded, watching me drink with a smirk.
"So, this old vampire, I take it you know him?" Alaric asked.
I could see Damon standing with Stefan and Elena, all of their eyes on me. Alaric was just the one asking the questions, but they all wanted the answers. I released a sigh and rubbed my tired eyes.
"Yes, yes, I do. I have known him for a very long time, but currently, he doesn't know I'm alive. I am not in contact with him if that's what you guys are wondering. It's been centuries since I've seen him."
If they really thought about my story, it would be pretty easy to put two and two together, but I truly doubted they would. Alaric rubbed at the stubble on his chin and turned to Damon, his forehead wrinkled.
"Is that enough for you? She is obviously not against us. I think we should listen to her, give her a chance to help. If she knows this vampire, then it would be easier for her to make a deal with him than it would be for us." He looked at my shocked face and clapped his hands — rubbing them together. "I learned my lesson with Isobel. If I would have paid attention, listened to her more, then maybe I could have helped her. There was more going on than an obsession with vampires — and I only wish I could have helped."
Alaric smiled down at me, his hazel eyes soft. "I think you know what you're doing," he said.
Without thinking, I jumped on him, wrapping my arms around his neck. My nose itched as I fought back, surprised tears. I couldn't believe Alaric was the one who was willing to give me a shot. I just hoped he would continue to be so understanding when the entire truth came to light.
"Thank you," I whispered, pulling away.
Alaric smiled down at me, and I wiped at my eyes. He walked away, moving to take a seat, his gaze firmly placed on me. Caroline, Tyler, and Jeremy joined him. Stefan pulled Elena into the armchair to my right, and Damon stayed firmly in front of the bar, his cool eyes staring out the window.
I was still unsure exactly what his problem was. I knew he was uneasy with everything I was asking of them, but it was more than that. There was something else I couldn't put my finger on.
"Okay, Elandra, tell us your plan. How exactly are you going to trap Katherine in the tomb?" Stefan asked.
I turned toward my small audience and took a deep breath.
"Well, it's all going to start with a Masquerade..."