*A/n: Hey ya'll! Welcome to our latest chapter; I still do not have an official beta for NB but my dear friend FelixFelicis313, who I am working with on my story Hope For A Better Future (which you should check out if you enjoy Hermione-centric fics) helped me fix this chappie up nice and pretty. Still, even two sets of eyes can miss some things, so I apologize for any mistakes. I hope you enjoy this chapter, if you do please leave a review and let me know. *

The moment I opened my eyes I felt a new sensation build in my body and I basked in it, remaining perfectly still. I couldn't remember the last time I had felt so alive. My fingers and toes tingle with bruising warmth and I flexed my muscles, almost sighing with satisfaction. I focused my gaze on the ceiling as a prism of colors sang across it in a blurry rainbow. I watched the way it flickered in and out of view, blocked by someone's frizzy blonde hair. My focus shifted to take in the pale face of Caroline, who was standing to my right. Her blue eyes were red and puffy and her skin was lined with fresh tear tracks. Her head rested in the crook of Matt's neck and her pink-tinted nose twitched as she sniffled, releasing a shuddering breath of air. Matt wrapped his arm around her, his fingertips gently brushing her shoulder. His ordinarily warm blue eyes were subdued and his expression lifeless; he was cloaked in exhaustion. A twinge at the base of my skull captured my attention and my eyes flickered to the left. A torrent of brown hair fell in my line of sight, blocking the face of the person lying in bed next to my still form. The smell of green apple met my senses, and I knew it was my sister; mom had developed Elena's love for Suave shampoo.

She turned her head, and I felt the tug on my skull again; I realized that she was idly playing with my hair. Tears ran down her cherry-red cheeks and she brushed them away with trembling fingers. A pained hiccup escaped her lips as her ragged breathing began to accelerate, and in an attempt to take in enough oxygen, she inhaled deeply. Slowly her head lowered onto my shoulder and I held my breath as she spoke, her voice strained. "Please don't leave me…I can't do this on my own. How am I supposed to go on without you?"

Caroline's deep sob filled the air and I felt a guilty ache build in my chest. A wet warmth seeped through my cotton shirt, and my expression shifted, brows scrunching up with sadness. The sudden movement on my face must have drawn Matt's attention because his breathing quickened, a sharp exhale of astonishment spilling from between parted lips. I glanced over at him, meeting his gaze; his blue eyes were sparking with disbelief. I allowed a small mischievous smile to overtake my face before lifting my hand and running my fingers through Elena's hair. She jolted, and her head flew upward. Her chestnut eyes were rounded in shock, and for a moment she simply stared at me, gaze flickering across my face. Then slowly, her expression melted and her brown doe eyes turned into toasty cinnamon. Her lashes were flecked with tears as she continued to stare at me with pained disbelief. Before I could so much as speak, her hands flew to my face, cupping my cheeks. She cried out in exhalation. "You're warm!"

I placed my hand atop hers and smiled gently at the sheer joy that she was radiating. Without warning, I was assaulted by a wave of blonde; the bed creaked menacingly as Caroline collided with us. The air whooshed from my lungs in an aching rush as she wrapped her arms around me. Tears bubbled in her blue eyes and I could barely make out the words that poured from her lips. "You left. Why? Please. Ellie. Never…"

I tried to sit up to better comfort my crying best friend but remained pinned to the mattress. I patted her on the back with a small smile, shushing her lightly as I held her tight. "I'm sorry, Caroline. I never meant to be gone that long. I was supposed to wake up alongside Elena. I took the potion meant for her and shouldn't have. No apology will ever be adequate, but I can promise it'll never happen again," I swore.

I felt my guilt swell the longer she cried; my shirt was soaked through. I hadn't lied; the spell had gone wrong. I was supposed to reawaken with Elena, but even with that reasoning, I still put those I loved through hell, and that wasn't okay. Rebekah was right; I needed to care for myself the way I took care of others. My curse had fucked me up, but I could no longer use that as an excuse. It was time to become the woman that I was capable of being. Esther would no longer control my future.

Caroline sat up, her face was twisted with grief. "You royally fucked up, Ellie! You're damn right it will never happen again." She placed her finger on the tip of my nose, and her blue eyes narrowed in on my face. "You are officially on my shit list! I will be watching you like a goddamn hawk," she said, ripping her finger from my face. She rose to her feet, wiping the tears from her eyes, and turned on her heel to face Matt. "We are leaving, Matty."

Matt looked down at me with a strange sort of gratefulness tinged with brotherly disappointment. I sat up and nodded in sad understanding as he made to follow Caroline toward the door. She let Matt go ahead, but before she exited the room, she stopped, turning back to look at me. Her blue eyes shined with profound relief. "I love you, Ellie. I am so happy you are okay," she said, her shoulders sagging.

I gently touched the bracelet on my wrist and smiled roughly, my eyes warming with tears. "I love you too, Care. I am happy to be here. I am sorry that I hurt all of you," I said

Caroline followed my movements, her eyes landing on my bracelet, and the momentum she was building faltered, her angry expression flickering. I scooted to the edge of the bed, and she faltered, taking in my crumpled clothing and messy hair. Her blue eyes heated, and her anger built up steam. She lifted her hands, stopping me in my tracks. "Stay. I-I'm not ready to forgive you just yet, Ellie. Let me be mad, okay?" she asked.

I placed my hands on my knees and looked at her with cloudy eyes, nodding in defeat. "Of course. I am sorry, Caroline."

She crossed her arms over her chest, almost like a shield against my words, and shook her head, sighing. "I know, Elara, but right now your words feel like just that: words. I need time to process. I have always let the detrimental things you do slide, but I'm tired Ellie, tired of watching you throw yourself into the fire while you're treated like trash," she said.

I stood on steady feet, my back ramrod straight as I looked upon my friend with steely eyes. "I'm tired too; tired of feeling like a doormat. That isn't going to be me anymore, Caroline. I'm done being nice."

Caroline lowered her arms, her brows shuffling in interest. She shifted her stance, popping her hip and placing her hand atop it, lips puckering into a disbelieving pout. "Sure, and what are you gonna do the next time Damon decides to treat you like shit?" she asked.

I tilted my head, narrowing my eyes at her accusation. I lifted my hand, and my fingertips sparkled like blue sapphires. I rubbed my index finger and thumb together, smacking my lips thoughtfully. "Hmm, I think breaking his neck should prove a rather nice point. If not, I know a few rather powerful vampires who delight in torture," I said, smiling wickedly.

Caroline laughed, nodding her head with a bright smile. Sadly her smile dimmed after a moment, and she took a step backward. "I hope you keep this new attitude. It would be good for you, not to mention entertaining. I'll see you soon, El. Stay safe," she demanded.

My shoulders drooped as she walked out the door, and I fell onto the bed feeling dejected. Elena placed a gentle hand on my shoulder and sat down beside me. "I'm sorry she's angry," she said.

I looked into her soft understanding eyes and shook my head, skeptical of her calm demeanor. "How are you not just as angry?"

Elena smiled, her brown eyes shining with tears. "Because I thought I lost you, El. I don't care about the past, I only care that you're alive. I saw what my life looked like without you, and I never want to feel that way again," she said, her voice croaky.

Love swelled up inside of me as I wrapped my arm around her, pulling her into my side. I placed my chin on her shoulder and my nose started to burn. I brought my hand up and rubbed away the sting, burying my emotions. I swallowed the lump in my throat. "I love you, Elena. Thank you for being my sister."

She giggled sweetly and lovingly kissed the top of my head. A loud clamoring drew our attention as multiple footsteps climbed the stairs, and soon, Jeremy, Jenna, Alaric, and Bonnie rushed into the room, their faces wild with shock. Jeremy stopped in the doorway, still as a statue, his eyes sealed on me. Jenna pushed past him, falling to her knees in front of me. Her head fell into my lap and she cried in relief, her shoulders heaving with the strain of her tears. "Oh thank God; you're alive." She looked up into my face before turning to Elena, her expression sheathed in frightened surprise. "How?" she asked.

I brushed the hair from her eyes, taking hold of her chin and turning her head back toward me. I shrugged, smiling meekly. "Magic, it's as simple as that. I used the potion that Elijah meant to give Elena, it just took longer to take effect because of the curse," I explained.

Jenna sat up, her relieved expression quickly shifting into frustration. Her lips thinned as she reached out, smacking my shoulder. "How could you not tell me about all this? You walked into something that could have meant your death! What is wrong with you, Elara?"

I rubbed at the reddening skin on my shoulder and winced at her hard stare. "I'm sorry Aunt Jenna. I always meant to tell you about the supernatural, and my involvement in it. I even started dosing you with vervain to protect you. I just never got around to spilling the beans."

Jenna's eyes narrowed and she sat back on her toes, her expression filled with expectation. I sighed, turning my gaze from her probing stare. I wasn't sure what else she wanted me to say, I couldn't exactly explain a thousand years' worth of conditioning. Throughout the years, I had continuously lost family and friends to death or time, and the horror of that started to slowly eat away at me. After a few centuries of nothing but death and destruction, I grasped onto those I loved with an iron grip. It's hard to let go when your mind has become programmed to believe that you'll end up alone, even when you're treated with disrespect.

I sat back, took hold of Jenna's hand, and squeezed gently. "There was a time when I believed that the only way I could save those I loved was by helping them let me go." Jenna grimaced, shaking her head in disbelief, and turned away from me. I wiggled her hand, drawing her attention. "I don't believe that anymore. I was lost, Jenna. Deep down I felt nothing but sorrow and loneliness. I thought building a wall between myself and the people I cared about was what was best for them. I've started to realize, as I've come into contact with more of my past, that it was never for them…it was for me; I was afraid." Jenna covered her mouth, and a nearly silent sob escaped her. I brought her close, placing a gentle hand in her wild hair. "Don't cry for me! I'm okay. I'm stronger now because of the family I've created. All of you give me hope, and that in itself is a powerful thing," I said, smiling.

Jeremy finally caved, his body collapsing in on itself, and he lowered to his knee with one hand placed on the wall beside him. His face was scrunched up in agony as he looked at me, his brown eyes wet with heavy tears. "I am so sorry, Ellie. I was such an asshole; I have no excuse for it. I need you to forgive me, please!" he begged, his shoulders shaking.

I watched him silently, my emotions camouflaged by a blank expression. Jenna placed her hand on my knee, her fingertips squeezing as a way to support me. I appreciated the small gesture, but most of all I was grateful that she wasn't pushing me to forgive him instantly. Elena sat down next to me as Bonnie hastily approached, her eyes heated with unrestrained anger. I looked up at the young witch and felt my expression shift from cold calmness to uneasy annoyance. She stared down at me, her dark wavy hair swaying against her shoulders as she turned to look at Jeremy with sad green eyes. "Why are you making him suffer, Elara? Don't you think he's been through enough?"

My face twisted with outrage, but before I could do more than rear back in surprise, Elena shot forward. She met her best friend head-on. "How dare you! She just woke up and you have the gall to stand here and demand her forgiveness? Don't you think she's been through enough?" she shouted.

I felt my chest warm and grinned lovingly at my sister. I looked on with a feeling of nervous pride as she stood head to head with someone so much stronger than her, battling for my honor. I chuckled as I reached up to grasp her elbow. I pulled her gently, willing her back onto the bed. "I appreciate that you're trying to protect me, Lena, but why don't you let me be my own white knight for once," I said.

Elena huffed, her chest vibrating as she exhaled a shaky breath, and she turned back to Bonnie, shaking her head with profound disappointment. Bonnie just met her stare without a hint of remorse, instead sporting a cocked eyebrow and smug expression that bordered on self-righteous infallibility. I felt a genuine moment of sadness as I looked up at her. There would come a time when she would be forced to self-reflect. I just hope it didn't come after a heartbreaking loss. "Bonnie, I know you want to protect Jeremy, but you should understand why I don't feel inclined to immediately forgive him."

Bonnie narrowed her emerald eyes disdainfully, pursing her raspberry-tinted lips. "You should remember that he is the only brother you have, Elara, regardless of the way you casually toss around the word," she said.

Elena groaned, her head lowering in disbelief, hands closing into fists. Jeremy pushed himself off the floor and stood on shaky legs. He wobbled forward, his face displaying an array of emotions. He stepped up next to Bonnie, turned to face her, and placed his hand on her shoulder without a hint of tenderness. "Listen, Bon, I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me, but right now I need to be there for my sister. I think you should go," he said.

Bonnie's thick lashes fluttered with incredulity, and she lifted her hands, fingers flexing against the empty air. A light scoff escaped her as she took a small step back. The skin around Jeremy's eyes wrinkled as he winced in guilt, and he made to reach out, his hands twitching with unease. Bonnie's head jerked, her chin lowering as she turned her body away from him. "Yeah, I think I'll go. Grams is probably waiting for me and I know when I'm not wanted," she said, her nose wiggling as she stared around the room, anger heating her jewel-toned eyes.

Jeremy sighed, his hand falling against his side as he watched Bonnie head for the door. Elena turned her head, her gaze following Bonnie. Alaric edged into the room, avoiding Bonnie as she bolted past him like a shotgun shell; his shocked brown eyes never fell from my face. I waited for Elena to plead with her best friend to stay, but she remained silent, crossing her arms over her chest, expression stormy. I felt that old sense of guilt stir inside of me. I wanted nothing more than to reach out to Bonnie, but I pushed it down. I refused to bend to the will of others; that was no longer who I was. With a deep sigh, I looked up just as Bonnie fled into the hallway, remembering my vow to her ancestral line. Although I would not be the doormat I had been before, I would still offer her the advice she so needed.

"Bonnie, wait!"

She stopped, tilting her head to the side to gaze over her shoulder. "Thank you for trying to help me." Her face wrinkled with uncertainty, and I tried to keep my expression open and free of anything she could deem deceitful. When her head lowered minutely, I released a calming breath and tried for a little more, hoping she would take it to heart. "I told you of the dangers of magic; don't forget. The longer you use it, the easier it is for the power to go to your head. Believe me, I know."

Bonnie's face distorted, a scowl hiding the beauty she normally held. "I'm not you, Elara. I have nature on my side. I'm not in bed with vampires," she spat, walking away, hips swaying.

Elena snorted, and she blinked in wary surprise. "What is happening to her?"

I placed my chin on my knuckles and sighed. "She is going through a lot. She has suffered so many changes. She'll come around though; don't give up on her, Elena," I said, patting her on the knee.

Deep down Bonnie was a good person, just like her ancestors. She just needed time; she was young, after all. A chuckle that resembled a scoff brought me outta my reverie, and I turned to look at Alaric. He was standing beside my vanity, and his expression was wild. His blue eyes were wide and his cheeks puffed out as he breathed heavily. His hair was a staticky mess, and he absentmindedly ran his fingers through it. "Are we gonna act like Elara didn't just die? How are you all functioning? You act like this is normal!"

Elena turned to me, a resigned expression flickering across her face. "I did freak out, didn't I Ellie? I guess once you have the moment of 'Oh my God, she died' you kinda calm down and slip into acceptance. We deal with magic and the supernatural every day, Alaric, and it becomes pretty easy to deal — as fucked up as that may sound," she said.

Jeremy sat down beside Jenna, his head falling back as he grumbled, a deep breath falling from his puckered lips. "Yeah, I agree with Elena. I freaked out but now I'm calm. I'm just beyond grateful that she is okay."

Jenna nodded, her head falling onto my knee. She gripped my leg tightly, and her nose turned red as she fought back the tears. Alaric sat down on my vanity stool, his head slumping forward. "We all need therapy. Too bad there isn't someone that specializes in the supernatural," he said, a dark chuckle coating his words.

I laughed, smiling weakly, and shook my head. "I'm okay but it's fine if you're not. Give yourself some time," I said.

Alaric exhaled deeply, rubbing his knees almost robotically, and then he froze, his hand shooting toward his pocket. "Shit! No one called Damon or Stefan. I gotta tell them you're okay. I bet Damon is out there ripping through people like a maniac."

My stomach fluttered uncomfortably and I turned to look helplessly at Elena, my face warped with anxiousness. Noticing my unease, she immediately jumped into action, her hand gently placed upon my wrist. "Ric, I agree that someone should tell them, for all our sakes, but you should wait until Ellie is ready. I think she wants to change clothes and let the Mikaelsons know first," she said.

Alaric reared back, his face pinched, and he looked at me questioningly. "Why would you tell them first? They came here planning to take you from your family. They are dangerous, Elara!" he declared, gripping his cell tightly.

I bolted to my feet, Elena's hand toppling from my wrist. She scooted away, her teeth trailing her bottom lip nervously. Jeremy stood, and Jenna hesitantly joined him. She stared apprehensively, her gaze sliding between me and her boyfriend. Before Jeremy could interfere, Elena placed her hand on his arm, shaking her head. I stepped closer to Alaric, my searing gaze burning into his face. "Let's not start making accusations, Ric. Don't forget all the dangerous stuff your buddy gets up to," I said with a faux calm tone.

Alaric winced, noticing I hadn't used his full name, and lowered his phone, placing it back into his pocket. "I am just worried for you, Elara. I don't want you to fall in with the wrong people…"

I narrowed my eyes, my nails digging into the palms of my hands as I gestured toward the door. "I think I can decide the wrong sort for myself, thanks. Speaking of, I think it's about time for you to be leaving."

Elena snorted, and her growing giggle caught Alaric off guard. He raised a confused brow and stumbled toward the door. Jeremy sighed in exasperation, staring at me with perplexity as Jenna followed after Alaric, a small smile on her lips. "I am gonna see him out, ya big dork. I'm sorry he was such a dick. I do think he only wants what's best for you; he's just going about it in all the wrong ways," she said.

I nodded in understanding, agreeing with her to an extent. I had always gotten a good vibe from Alaric, I just hoped he could get past his hate of the Mikaelsons. "I know, Jenna, but I need some time."

She lowered her chin, her expression shining with understanding as she stepped out the door. Jeremy lingered in the middle of my room, watching Elena snicker in amusement. She laid back on her elbows, and her hair fanned out around her as she glanced up at the ceiling. I sat down beside her knees and looked at my siblings. I balked at the awkward air. For a single moment, I mourned what used to be. There was a time when we could laze about together and the silence was always peaceful. Now, it was different, and I felt to some degree that it was just as much my fault as Jeremy's. I tapped my knee and glanced helplessly at my brother. I had no idea what to say to him, and to be honest, I just wanted him to leave. I wasn't ready to forgive him, nor was I ready for a long-drawn-out conversation. All I wanted was to find Niklaus and Elijah. I knew they needed me. Elena lowered her chin, glancing at me with uneasy intensity, and sadness captured her face. She sat forward and glanced around the room, a firm resolve settling in her eyes. Jeremy remained pinned to the floor in the center of the room, shifting his weight from one foot to the next. As Elena stood, heading toward the closet, he stumbled toward the other side of the room. Pulling open the door, she smacked the light switch, illuminating the dark. "Hey Jer, why don't you go get some sleep; it's been a long night. Elara and I have stuff to do. The two of you can talk later, okay?" she said without looking at him, pulling a few articles of clothing from their hangers.

I felt a rush of appreciation pass through me and vowed to buy Elena whatever she wanted the next time she forced me to go shopping. Jeremy hesitated, looking at the lit-up closet with furrowed brows. He turned to me, trying to gauge my mood, and his shoulders slumped in defeat. His legs shook, knees wobbling as if his body was fighting imminent collapse. I left the bed, meeting him where he stood. He looked down at me with such guilt swimming in his brown eyes I feared I might get lost in his pain. "I can't give you what you want right now, Jeremy; I'm sorry. What I can do is promise that I will continue to be here, because I love you. I'm not going anywhere. There'll be plenty of time for us to talk later," I said softly, reaching out to place a reassuring hand on his chest.

His chest heaved, shuddering deeply as he exhaled through a deep cry of pain. I placed my hands on his shoulders, pulling him into an awkward hug. I could see Elena lingering in the closet doorway, her doe eyes wet but filled with relief. I held Jeremy as he fought through his pain, fingertips digging into my skin. Finally, he pulled away, and his red-rimmed eyes refused to look at me. He headed toward the door and I watched him go, my heart heavy. Elena stepped closer, a fresh outfit in hand. "Here. Get dressed. Let's go find your vampires."

I chuckled, rolling my eyes. She was right, it was time to find the Mikaelsons. I had a promise to keep.

Elena patiently waited for me to take a shower and get dressed. I had refused to go anywhere until I no longer carried the scent of death. Elena insisted that I smelled normal, but I could still smell the bitter chemical scent of the other side all over my skin. It reminded me of the way food smells when it's been improperly frozen; I hated it. Once I was ready, she guided me downstairs at a snail's pace, her body shielding me as if I were a toddler just learning to walk. I bit my tongue in aggravation as she gently took my hand, edging me down the stairs one step at a time. Jenna stood at the bottom, a bright Cheshire grin on her face. I bet that NASA could sense her amusement in Space. "Gently, now, Elena. We don't know how weak she is," Jenna said, her voice stained with merriment.

I shot her a fiery glare, and my hand stiffened. Elena quickly noticed, her eyes rounding in fear. "Are you okay? Do you need to sit down for a second?"

Jeremy darted in from the living room and took hold of the banister, ready to hop over the side to help. I sighed, trying to remain calm. I kept a gentle reminder playing on repeat in my mind that they were acting this way because I had nearly died. I looked down at Elena and kept my expression soft and filled with love. "Lena, I am perfectly fine. To be honest, I've never felt better. You don't have to protect me, sweety."

Elena's face flushed, cheeks turning a soft rose; she lowered her chin in embarrassment. Jeremy pulled his hand from the banister and took a step back, his expression torn between relief and regret. Jenna smiled as she stepped toward Jeremy, taking him by the shoulder and hugging him tightly; she gently guided him into the living room. "I'm sorry, I just feel this overpowering need to make sure you're okay. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't woken up," she said, her eyes sparkling with painful memories.

I walked past her and took the stairs two at a time. I grabbed my car keys from the table beside the door. "Luckily you'll never have to know. I'm okay now, Elena; we both are. With time you'll see that," I swore. Elena followed me out the door and I tossed her the keys with a wide grin spreading across my face. "I may be okay but that doesn't mean I feel like driving."

She snorted, rolling her eyes as she hopped into the car. "Where are we going exactly? I have no clue where Elijah went. He only mentioned that they'd be back later," Elena said, turning to me as I slipped into the car.

I bit my bottom lip in thought, glancing out the windshield at the beautiful summer day. Closing my eyes, I inhaled through my nose, taking in a deep hit of oxygen as well as the calming scent of the earthy woods and the sweet aroma of Jenna's flourishing rose garden. I held my hands against my chest and focused on the eternal pulse of magic that radiated from the two Original vampires. It wasn't long before I could sense their presence. A buzz of familiar magic was radiating from the most unlikely of places: the Mystic Grill. My eyes shot open and I turned to Elena, my nerves on edge. "They're at the Grill; we need to hurry."

The blood drained from her face and she immediately put the car in drive. As she pulled onto the busy main road, I felt my anxiety rise. The closer we got to the Grill, the darker the glow of magic seemed to become. It was a warning beacon pulsing brightly in the middle of Mystic Falls, and I felt my stomach lurch with unease. That idea of not knowing what I was walking into left the hairs on the back of my neck standing on end. I knew better than most what Niklaus was like when left in the wake of devastation; I didn't want to repeat those past performances. Still, as Elena pulled into a parking space at the nearly deserted Mystic Grill, I stilled my anxiety, burying my concern beneath newly found courage. I stepped out of the car, turning to look across the hood at Elena. "Maybe you should—"

She lifted a stern hand and lowered it down beside her in a stiff slicing motion, almost like a sword. "No, absolutely not! I am going in with you, Elara. There is no way you're doing this alone," she said, determination flaring in her eyes.

I sighed, shaking my head at her fierce unyielding expression, and stepped around the car, pulling her to my side in the process. I looked around the street as my nerves bubbled just below the surface. As I observed the warm summer afternoon, I quickly noticed the odd normalcy that permeated the air. It appeared to be a day like any other until you looked deeper. People milled about, shopping at the local boutiques and having coffee at the corner cafe, but the closer you came to the Grill, the thicker the air was. It was so stifled that it was almost hard to breathe.

As we approached, it made more sense that people seemed to be avoiding that side of the street. Elena tugged at my wrist, but I held firm. She followed my gaze as I took in a young man and woman standing across the street. I watched intently as the young couple laughed joyfully; their eyes were bright with love. They stopped at the crosswalk, journeying toward us. When their feet touched the pavement on our side of the street, their stride slowed. Their eyes lost the glimmer held only seconds before. Oddly, they began to sway back and forth, and a lost glaze took over their eyes. They froze in place for a moment before abruptly turning on their heels and heading back the way they'd come. Their conversation started again when they returned to their starting point, eyes sparkling with life. Elena gasped in surprise; she turned to look at me. "Compulsion?" she asked.

I looked at the Grill and shook my head. "No, there are too many people coming and going. My guess would be a spell. Elijah probably has one of the Martins helping." I laced my fingers with Elena's and drug her toward the entrance, quick to keep skin contact. If there was a witch around, I wanted to protect her. "Are you sure about this, Lena? I don't know what we're walking into," I said cautiously.

Without hesitation, she wrapped her arm around mine as her face set into a mask of determination. Loud music could be heard from within and my expression twisted into one of confusion. The blinds were drawn on the front windows making it impossible to see anything except the light pouring from inside. I took a deep breath as I pushed open the front door, relieved to find it was unlocked. Despite the spell that was being used, I still wasn't comfortable performing magic out in the open. The welcome bell jingled merrily as we stepped inside but I could barely hear it over the sound of pulsing speakers; I felt my face wrinkle into a grimace of pain at the overpowering noise. Regardless of her protests, I shoved Elena behind me and slowly walked into the restaurant. The smell of blood and alcohol filled the air, and I scrunch my nose with disgust. Numerous bodies littered the floor at different levels of mutilation; some were missing their legs or arms, while others were merely missing their internal organs.

Elena released cries of outrage behind me, and I shushed her. Gingerly, I stepped over the body of a barely recognizable woman, who was missing half of her face. I helped Elena climb over the corpse, holding onto her shaking hands as she trembled with disgust, her expression was twisted with pity. She grasped my shoulders as we approached the corner of the room where they kept the karaoke machine and pool tables. I felt my eardrums thrum along with the base of the music as we headed up the steps. My heart stuttered the moment I came upon Elijah. He was sitting on a stool in front of the tiny stage. His perfectly coiffed hair was tousled and the white dress shirt he wore was wrinkled and dotted with blood. He had carelessly tossed his jacket onto the empty stool at his side. He sat with his head lowered in defeat as someone sang drunkenly in a mournful register in front of him. My eyes rose to find a short young man, barely in his twenties, drenched in burgundy blood. His shaggy brown hair was wet and stuck to his face as he danced in a drunken compulsed stupor. At Elena's insistence, I turned to my right to find Niklaus hunched over a pool table with a half-empty glass of liquor in hand. His curly blond hair had lost its natural hue beneath dark red. As he moved, I noticed with pity that his soaked navy blue shirt stuck to his skin. He clutched the table with blood-caked hands as he listened to the young man sing off-key; a spark of agony lingered in his eyes. I stood stock-still, shocked by what I was witnessing.

"I-Is that a Rascal Flatts song?" Elena whispered.

I nodded, wide-eyed; I recognized the song — it was Forever by Rascal Flatts. The surreality of the moment soon passed, and I decided to act fast. I moved with careful hesitant steps, aware of the danger present. I kept Elena at my back, conscious of every move she made. I stepped up beside Elijah and gently placed a hand on his shoulder. My throat was dry and useless as I tried to create an adequate sentence. He froze beneath my touch, his body as hard as steel. He didn't chance a single breath as I stood at his side, a silent ghost. Slowly he lifted his head inch by inch and his hazel eyes traveled across my face at an agonizingly slow pace. At no time in my past had I seen him stare at me with such intense torment, but as he looked upon my face as if he feared I was nothing more than a figment of his own tortured mind — I could say I now knew what I meant to Elijah. A shudder released the tension in his body, and he fell limp as he gasped out a pained cry. "El-Elandra?"

I lowered to my knees and attempted a weak smile. "It worked, 'Lijah. I'm sorry it took so long."

The sharp crunching of shattering glass pulled my gaze, and I turned to Niklaus. He was slouched against the pool table, one hand placed atop it. The fractured remains of his tumbler fell from his trembling fingers and he regarded me with tormented eyes, tears pooling in their blue depths. He pursed his lips as he looked between Elijah and me, his jaw ticking with repressed anger. Before it could build, I stood to my feet and took a single step to the side, joining Elena. He shook off his wet hand and sped over to the young man, yanking the microphone from his hand with more force than necessary. My lashes fluttered in surprise at his unimaginable speed. This was the first time I had seen his new Hybrid strength, and I couldn't say it didn't send my anxiety into overdrive. He slowly walked over to the karaoke machine and studied it with narrowed eyes. His full lips curled as he watched the words pass across the screen, and with a flex of his tight shoulders, he slammed his fist into the screen. Sparks flew around him as he pulled his hand out of the machine, and blood cascaded down his wrist. I felt my eyes nearly bulge out of my head as my jaw dropped. I screeched in horror, ignoring the sigh of annoyance uttered by Elena, and rushed forward. I grabbed hold of Niklaus's arm, spinning him around as I took hold of his wrist. "Are you mad?"

He looked up at the ceiling, ignoring my concern. His face was as blank as I had ever seen it. Confusion coated me as heavily as anger and fear. I stood before him with a twisted expression of bewilderment, still, he refused to meet my gaze. I inhaled deeply to remain calm and started to remove the glass from his hand so that he could properly heal. Beside us, I heard the stool Elijah had been using squeak as he stood, and felt my skin tingle as nerves threatened to overwhelm me. I held Niklaus' hand in my own once the glass was removed, and reached up to grasp onto his stubble-covered chin. I gently tugged his face down so that I could look into his eyes, and searched for the reason behind his overreaction. Was he angry that I had lied to him? If he was, I couldn't blame him.

"Nik, I'm sorry that I didn't tell you what I had planned." I swallowed roughly and opened my mouth to begin the rest of my explanation, but before I could, Niklaus snatched his hand from my grasp and snarled, his face twisted with rage. My fingers flexed, curling against my empty palms as I fought back tears.

"I don't want to hear your weak excuses, Elandra!" His gaze darted to Elijah, who was hovering in front of Elena. He inspected him with palpable disgust. "Did you honestly think I would ever allow you to leave here together?" he chuckled darkly as he paced between us, his focus never once leaving our confused faces. Pain began to etch its way onto his brow, pulling them together as his frustration began to simmer. "I mourned you, Ellie! I mourned you more than I did my own death. I've loved you with everything I have to give." He began to pace faster, becoming more predatory as his rage manifested. "I love you, completely and utterly without abandon. How do you repay me? Sneaking around with my brother!"

His blue eyes narrowed, the color shifting towards a golden amber as the rage finally broke through his defenses. His canines elongated and his chest heaved. He turned to Elijah and growled in fury, his stance changing to one of obvious challenge. "I warned you of what would happen should you attempt to take her from me!" he screamed, flying toward him.

I flung my hand out without hesitation, wrapping Elena in a shield of protection. She fell to her knees, wrapping her hands around her legs in fear as the two powerful immortals flew over her head. Their legs bounced off of the barrier, changing their trajectory. I watched in horror as they slammed into the bar, destroying the mirror and all of the liquor on the display rack. Elena's doe eyes were wide with disbelief as she looked up at my approach. "What the flying fuck is happening?" she squealed.

Placing a hand on my forehead, I glanced across the Grill at the two battling Originals; they were demolishing what was left of the bar. "If I had to guess: Niklaus thinks I was faking my death so that I could run off with his brother. I should have been more careful; he is so paranoid," I said, shaking my head.

An airy chuckle trickled through the air, and both Elena and I turned around to find the compelled young man standing behind us, his stance unsteady. His wide-eyed gaze was unnerving, and I grimaced as he tilted his head smiling widely. "I could sing another song. Music soothes the battered soul," he said in a sing-song voice.

I looked over at Elena; she was staring at the man with compassion, but I could also see the same unease I felt in the downturn of her lips. With a single snap of my fingers, the man was unconscious at our feet. Elena's head jerked toward me, gaze boiling over with disapproval. I raised my hand, stopping her angry spiel. "He's fine! I just needed him out of the way, Lena. It's for the best."

I gestured for her to stay behind as I headed toward the steps, and after a few bickering grumbles, she agreed. Rubbing the sore muscles in my neck, I headed into the restaurant, standing a few feet away from the tangling duo. I eyed them both with displeasure and chewed on the inside of my cheek as I flung my hands out. I watched with more than a little pleasure as they were hurled in opposite directions. I hastily lowered them to the floor, where they were pinned down, their necks straining as their eyes searched me out. I walked into the middle of the room, directly between the two, and nearly laughed when I realized how reminiscent this moment was of one I had shared with the Salvatore brothers; the pair of siblings were more alike than they realized. I placed my hands on my hips and glared at the two Originals.

"Okay, I understand that there is a lot of history between the two of you and that it's hard to put it all to bed, but Niklaus there is no way you could honestly think that I would run off with Elijah, not really — so do you mind telling me what's going on?" I slowly approached him, looking down at his ferociously amber eyes. I knew at some point I would suffer his wrath for my impertinence, but it wouldn't be anything I couldn't handle. I bent down to his level and placed my hand on his cheek, following him when he tried to move from my touch. "Nik, my love, you know I would never betray you. I did lie, and for that, I am so sorry. I knew that Elena was tainted by Damon's blood and would be useless unless someone stepped in, so I took the task. I couldn't let the ritual be ruined. Looking back, I realize how stupid I was; I took an unnecessary risk. I just hope that someday you can forgive me," I said. Placing my hands on my knees, I stood and backed away, granting him space. With a single snap of my fingers, they were both released. A burst of air later, Niklaus was standing in front of me, his head tilted, a twitch of his lips mocking a caring smile.

"How many times has it been Elijah that you have chosen to trust with your secrets?" The emotion in his eyes was tainting his facsimile of a smile and it was all building to a scalding crescendo as he glanced over my head at Elijah. "Why do you think that is?" he asked, his tone a semblance of softness. He lifted a curl from my shoulder and held it, twirling it around his finger as he watched my face with an odd sort of cold fascination that left my knees quaking. He stepped closer, his body nearly touching my own, and I felt its deep warmth. It took all the strength I possessed to remain still and not press my chest against his. He stood rigidly in front of me, his fingertips caressing the length of the curl he had chosen as his own. I basked in the closeness, regardless of the cold aura he was projecting and forced a sense of calm. I tried to focus on the fact that only hours before he had thought I was lost to him until my rebirth; this was simply Niklaus's paranoia and the anger he held because he had felt weak.

"Any time I've chosen to confide in Elijah there's been a reason. It does not mean I am in love with him or that I do not trust you, Nik. You should know that."

I could feel his hot bourbon-scented breath on my face as he exhaled. "Hmm, are you sure about that, Ellie," he said. His tone was mocking as he spat out the nickname.

I lifted my hand and untangled his fingers from my hair, then gently placed my fingertips on his dimpled cheeks, uncaring that a scornful smile created them. I looked deep into his amber eyes; as much as I adored their usual blue, and was cognizant of the fact that they had created my obsession with the color, I found myself sinking easily into Hybrid amber. "It's only ever been you, Niklaus! There is not one person in my life who has ever compared to you. You need to learn to bury your paranoia, Niklaus," I softly said. I felt the muscles in his jaw contract as he fought against a confused frown, and his eyes crinkled as he stared down at me. I lifted my right hand to the side of his face, rubbing my thumb across the taught skin bunched up between his eyebrows, and ran my finger along his jawline, pinching his chin between my thumb and forefinger. "Your feelings aren't one-sided, you have the entirety of my heart at your mercy. Haven't I proven my love for you, time and time again?"

I sighed as I regarded him, hoping to break through his stubborn pride. "We go through this in an endless cycle, Nik. Elijah doesn't let his emotions overcome him; that's why I went to him. I never meant to put you through this kind of pain, my love. It will always be you Nik. I will always choose you."

When he chose to remain frozen, his expression giving nothing away, I took a step back and nodded in acceptance. I couldn't force him to forgive me, and I would never try. I turned to look at Elijah. He was carefully brushing off his tattered suit, his face painted with scorn as he picked at his ruined blue tie. I bit back a fond smile, aware of the searching amber eyes sealed to my face, and cleared my throat, gathering his attention. "I could fix that mess if you'd like? It might be a bit before you can change. You have all of this to clean up, after all," I said, turning my playful glare on Niklaus as I lifted my hand, waving it around at the destroyed restaurant.

Elena stepped over a mangled piece of wood with a wrinkled nose and heated eyes. "And you both will be fixing all of this. That task won't fall on my sister. She shouldn't even be here messing with the two of you, she only just woke up!" she said with a huff, her arms crossing over her puffed-out chest.

Elijah's brow rose at her insolence but the small tug at his lips gave away his amusement. His exhausted brown gaze traveled over my solid form and I stood taller, aware that if he saw even a hint of weakness I would be sent off to rest until he felt I was healthy enough. When his gaze fell, and his expression calmed, I exhaled in relief. His posture changed, his body stiffening as he stood tall and resumed his 'honorable' Original persona. "When exactly did you awaken?" he asked, stepping only near enough to assess me further. Each of us was acutely aware of the on-edge Hybrid at my side that refused to back down.

Wrinkling my nose in thought, I shrugged, idly kicking a piece of glass near my foot. "Maybe two hours ago? I'm not entirely sure. I haven't been watching the time. I've had bigger things to worry about." Elijah sighed in exasperation and lifted his hand, running his fingertips along the bridge of his nose. "I'm fine, really; I feel fantastic. Don't worry." I assured him, smiling brightly. A heavy growl of annoyance trickled through the air, and I nervously turned to look at Niklaus, my expression twisted with trepidation.

"Maybe if the two of you had informed me of your sly little plans I could have brought Greta into the fold; she could've made sure your potion was truly safe enough for Elandra to take," Niklaus snarled, his shoulders flexing as he stared Elijah down.

Elijah's head jerked toward his brother and his lips curled in disgust. "Do you think I would give her something I had not tested beforehand? I knew that potion would work five hundred years ago! I would never deliberately hurt Lannie." he said, his tone laced with anger.

Niklaus took a threatening step toward Elijah, his golden eyes practically radiating electricity. "Is that so? Then how do you explain agreeing to help her kill herself?" he snarled, pointed teeth bared.

I flinched at the accusation, and let my shoulders droop as Elijah's face paled. I was perfectly aware of the accuracy of Niklaus's statement, but Elijah had so little to do with what had happened; I felt queasy with guilt. It had been my fault and my fault alone. There was no one who could change my mind once it was set on a definitive path, and Niklaus knew that. I did not want what had happened to be added to the list of things hidden behind Elijah's red door. I was sure the guilt of my prior deaths was already buried in there somewhere. With a grimace of guilt-ridden pain, I turned to Niklaus, my hands balled into fists at my sides. "That's not fair at all, Nik. Elijah had no choice but to help me; I would have accomplished it with or without him. At least with him, I had the potion," I said, my voice low.

Niklaus's upper lip twitched in an attempt to control a snarl of frustration, and his chest puffed as he inhaled deeply, his hands flexing as if he wanted to reach out and shake sense into me. I tilted my head, shoulders lowering, as a sense of defeat wared within me. Would we always meet at an impasse? Elena clicked her tongue and set her jaw tight with vexation, as Elijah took a single step forward, his hand lifted. "It's quite alright, Elandra. Niklaus is right." With hands lifted in rage, I turned to face him, my eyes rounded. Elijah shook his head, his expression begging for patience. "I should have fought harder to keep you safe. I have acquiesced to your demands for far too long. You have to admit, dear one, that you tend to put yourself in precarious situations more times than not. Knowing that, I should have done more."

I could feel my nostrils flaring, my face scrunching in ire as I looked at Elijah's contrite face. Niklaus sported a smug grin, and my teeth met together in a dance of irritation. I wanted to slap some sense into him but knew it would do no good; he didn't understand the harm he was doing.

"My own inability to keep from danger is not your responsibility; I am not your responsibility, Elijah. I never was." A flicker of dejection wrinkled his face before he buried it with a hasty lowering of his head, and he adjusted his suit jacket in an almost robotic way. I felt a pang of sorrow to know he had been so quick to misunderstand me. Without hesitation, I moved forward, my chin lowered to find his hazel eyes. "Elijah, I appreciate all you have done for me, but I think it's time you let us go. We need to learn and make our own mistakes. It's not your responsibility to take care of us or clean up our mistakes at every turn. You need to be happy and have a life too, 'lijah," I said, tilting my head as I watched him, "that's all I meant."

Elena shuffled around anxiously and clasped her hands in front of her; she picked listlessly at the skin around her nails, discomforted by the familial discussion. Niklaus strolled forward, his expression shining with displeasure, and his hulking form effectively blocked my view. "Aww, how sweet! I have to say I agree with Elandra; I too believe it's time that you let go brother," he said, his blue eyes flecked with amber and shimmering with hidden meaning.

Elena stepped closer, reaching out to take hold of my hand. Her expression was heavy with stress and I squeezed her cool palm comfortingly. The facade of calm Elijah wore remained despite the hostility directed at him, and he moved around Niklaus, looking into my eyes with caring hazel warmth. "Thank you for your kind words, Elandra; I will take them into consideration once I have been reunited with our siblings. For now, there is still much that needs to be done."

Niklaus laughed hollowly and turned around to face the back of his brother. His eyes shifted to amber, and his skin grew with darkness. Before I had a chance to blink, he reached forward and pressed his hand into Elijah's chest, wrapping his hand around his brother's heart. Elijah slumped forward, and he only remained standing by the grace of Niklaus's grip on his shoulders. His mouth fell open in surprise, and he gasped for air, blood dripping from the corner of his mouth. Niklaus placed his chin on Elijah's shoulder and met my gaze, his face twisted with rage.

"Should I, Ellie, hmm? The two of you are always conspiring together, and sharing such sweet words; I think I've had my fill," he said with a snarl.

I felt my throat thicken with fear and sorrow. My chest ached as I pushed a trembling Elena behind me, yanking my hand from her terrified grip. I moved forward on weak feet, I could barely feel my legs. "Nik, do not do this. There is nothing more I can say or do to prove that I love only you. If you can't see past your own paranoia, then there is nothing left for us. Trust goes both ways, my love. Please don't ruin the relationship you share with Elijah, no matter where we stand."

A moment of genuine fear replaced the anger in his amber eyes, and I felt a moment of relief to see a flicker of something I could grasp onto; I could work with the rational Niklaus. I kept my gaze off of Elijah as I moved closer with my head lowered, a form of respect for the position he held. "Elijah is your family Nik, don't throw that away. He admitted the mistake he made, but I swear to you, it was the only one. Nothing ever has or ever will happen between us," I firmly said.

His grip on his brother's shoulders loosened minutely, but it was something both I and Elijah noticed, as he released a quiet breath of relief. "Do you not consider yourself a Mikaelson anymore, Elandra? Just looking for an escape were you?" Niklaus asked a smirk made of resentment lighting up his face.

I released a long-suffering sigh, and my mind took the offered moment to remember all the times I had missed him in the recent centuries. I repeated the mantra used by anyone who had ever loved a Mikaelson, "They're worth it." and turned to stare down the bi-polar Hybrid. With an expression filled with distaste, I gestured toward the hand he had buried wrist deep in Elijah before wildly rotating my arms around the destroyed restaurant. "Have we shared a different experience since I awoke, Nik? You have been freaking out off-and-on over Elijah for weeks, and now, it seems my taking Elena's place was all the evidence you required to believe I am in love with him," I sneered at the ridiculous notion. "I tend to take that as the breaking of a relationship bond. That would mean we are no longer intended. So no, I am not a Mikaelson, nor will I ever be."

Elena gasped at the fire ignited on Niklaus's face, which had been sparked by my words. Elijah grunted in protest, his teeth grinding together in pain as he turned his head to glare at me. I rolled my eyes at the anger in his brown gaze and shook my head. "Yes! I know I will always have a place among you, but the fact is, I will not truly be a Mikaelson. Will I always feel like one? Yes! Yet, that doesn't change the facts of reality," I said, a chuckle simmering in my words.

With a twist of his wrist, Niklaus released Elijah, who promptly bent his knees, inhaling sharply. Niklaus bolted toward me and I took a heavy step backward, surprised by the vehemence displayed on his face. "Who said anything about dissolving our bond, Elandra? If you think for one second I will release you, then you are quite mad," he spat out, encroaching into my personal space in the blink of an eye.

My head fell back as I stared up at him, and I lifted my hands to his chest to keep from falling on my ass. "So what, you want to keep me tied to you even though you don't trust me?" I asked, confused by his sudden passion.

Niklaus reached around and took hold of my neck, pulling me close. "You will never part from me, Elandra. If I feel there is an issue in our relationship, I am more than capable of dealing with it," he said, and his gaze flickered to his blood-covered hand with a smirk.

I scoffed, pulling back with a disgusted grimace. "Yes, because that was a healthy way to deal with your fears…"

"I fear nothing! It's others who should fear me."

I patted his heaving chest, and smiled up at his pinking cheeks, knowingly. "You cannot reach into the chest of every person you think is too close to me. Who's next, Caroline?" I asked, my eyes rounding in exasperation.

Elena chuckled, raising her hand in an exaggerated display that reminded me of Hermione Granger. "Oh, oh, I got one! My guess is Damon, and I just have to say, I am all for it," she said.

I blinked at her blankly, before turning back to Niklaus, who was simply smiling with amusement. At least he didn't look like he wanted to kill her. "I will never willingly share you, love," he said.

I squeezed my hands into fists, my annoyance building to a level I feared would burst forth and consume me. "I understand that, Nik, and believe me I get it. I will never ask you to share me in a way you are uncomfortable with, but you can't start murdering people because you let your paranoia overwhelm you! I need trust in my relationships." I looked at him, filling my gaze with a meaning I wasn't ready to put into words.

The same fear from earlier swirled in Niklaus's eyes, and his hold on me tightened to an uncomfortable degree. He must have seen the pain in my expression, because he released me, a huff of air, falling from his lips in a startled gasp. He took a moment to swallow roughly and control his emotions. "I-I can't promise anything, love," he whispered.

I glanced at Elijah; he was wearing an expression filled with pain, but there was also a plea in his eyes. He was begging me to stay as if I had ever planned to run. I took Niklaus's hand and looked into his blue eyes, smiling despite my sad heart. "All I ask is that you try, and also that you stop attacking Elijah," I said, laughing weakly.

Niklaus grinned, his dimples wrinkling as his face blossomed. Elena stepped up beside us with a deep sigh of exhaustion. "Now that we are sure you guys aren't going to murder anyone else today, Elara and I need to go. We have one other stop to make before we can go home," she said, her shoulders slumping.

Niklaus turned his head, gaze finding mine swiftly, his eyes narrowing. I lifted my hands in surrender as I stood next to Elena. "We will be perfectly safe. I can't have vampires out there slaughtering people out of some sense of misplaced guilt. It's my responsibility to fix this, Nik," I said.

"Now who is taking on responsibilities that aren't theirs to carry?" Elijah asked brow cocked.

Elena snorted, hand shooting up to cover her grinning face. "Oh, he got you there."

I crossed my arms over my chest, cheeks warm with embarrassment. "Regardless, someone has to handle this mess. The two of you have your own to clean up, so the only person left is me," I said.

Niklaus brushed his finger over my heated skin, and I smiled despite my vexation. "I will rip through this town without an ounce of mercy if something happens to you. You would do well to remember that," he warned, his eyes flashing amber.

I stood on the tips of my toes, kissing his downturned lips with a bright smile of relief. "That I know, my love; I will be careful. I learned my lesson, I promise."

Before he could do more than return my kiss with an affectionate growl of approval, I spun around and grabbed Elena's hand, pulling her toward the exit. "Don't forget to make this place shine, boys. The people I love have become partial to it," I shouted over my shoulder with a broad grin. I was met with two fond gazes filled with exasperation.