A Petrova Something

by gilesc3

Sequel to "A Petrova Witch". Follow Sophia as she sets out on the search for werewolves with Klaus and Stefan and discovers change is in the air. How will our favorite witch handle the new turn of events and will it strengthen or break her relationship with Klaus?

22. Chapter 22

AN: Please don't hate me! I'm so sorry for the uber long delay.

Guest: The story is not abandoned, although it seems that way! I just haven't had the time or motivation for writing with things going on in my life. Sorry for the very long weight, but I hope you like this chapter!

Guest: Here's an update. Sorry for the delay.

Story lover: Yes, I love Klaus's caring side too. I hate that we don't get to see it more often in the show, but I understand that he's supposed to be the big wolf and yada yada yada, lol. I love the image of the three brothers just looking lost in a baby store, surrounded by fluffy toys and bright colors. I hope you like this chapter!

Guest: I'm so glad you like this story. Sorry for the wait, but I hope you like this chapter.

Disclaimer: I own nothing related to TVD or TO.

Chapter 22: The Calm before the Storm

"Miss Gilbert? Miss Gilbert!" The witch jerked, startled eyes snapping open to see Mrs. Roberts standing in front of her desk, a scowl on her wrinkled face. The calculous teacher looked anything but pleased; it didn't help that the whole room was now looking at her.

"If I'm boring you Miss Gilbert, I'm sure the principle will be more than happy to keep you entertained." Sophia blushed in embarrassment, her hand rubbing at her still heavy eyes.

"Sorry Mrs. Roberts." The old woman gave her another glare before marching back to the front of the classroom to continue her lesson.

Sophia ducked her head, trying to shake the exhaustion that clung to her, despite the full night's sleep she'd gotten. Since they'd discovered Alaric was the killer and he'd been taking his special herbs, everything had been quiet and relaxed. Meaning the last week had been stress-free, allowing Sophia to get back to her regularly scheduled life.

Primarily, she got to go back to school and get caught up on all her work; Rebekah just compelled her way out of it, as homework really wasn't her thing. Sophia thought she even compelled her teachers to let her late work slide, but she didn't comment, as it was very possible the calm wouldn't last for long and she didn't want to fail any of her classes.

So she shouldn't be so damn tired all the time. The pregnancy book mentioned she'd probably experience fatigue; but, it didn't seem to matter how much she slept, she just couldn't get her energy back. Add that with the recent nausea and headaches, and you have a very drained witch.

"Are you okay?" Elena whispered, clearly concerned. She'd never seen Sophia so tired that she'd actually nod off in school; and this was the third time this week that Elena had seen her do just that. Something was obviously wrong.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just sleepy." She replied, used to the guilt that'd become her constant companion.

Sophia knew she needed to come clean, but she just wasn't ready; she needed a little more time to get her bearings and to get to the acceptance stage. She'd come to terms with actually being pregnant, but the thought of being a mother at 18 was still giving her trouble. Sophia wasn't going to open the can of worms that accompanied coming clean to her family and friends until she absolutely had to.

"Maybe you should cut down on fun times with your boyfriend and actually sleep." Caroline whispered with a smirk, which turned into a 'told-you-so' look when Sophia yawned.

"It's not like that. I—"

"Miss Gilbert! If the three of you don't quiet down, you'll be serving ISS for the next week." The teens shared guilty looks before apologizing, not wanting to get into any more trouble.

When the bell finally rang, they made a hasty retreat, not wanting to give Mrs. Roberts time to yell at them; the woman was anything but a kind, gentle old lady. They started towards the cafeteria for lunch when Sophia remembered she'd wanted to speak with Caroline.

"Hey Care, can we talk for a second?" She asked with a smile, nodding towards the row of lockers.

"Uh, sure Sophia." The blonde shrugged. Elena glanced between the two, her curiosity piqued, but her sister gave her a look that she knew meant the witch wanted to talk privately.

"I'm gonna go grab lunch and a table."

"We'll meet you there." The twins shared a look before Elena nodded and continued walking, the others moving to the lockers to be out of the flow of traffic.

"What's up?"

"I just wanted to see how you're doing with everything." Caroline gave her a confused look, obviously not getting what she meant.

"Um, I'm fine. A little stressed about the upcoming Decades dance, but I'll deal. Speaking of, are you gonna help with the dance? We haven't really been able to enjoy a school dance since you've been back; it'll be fun." The vampire smiled.

"Yeah, sure; Bekah's really excited about it so I'll bring her to the committee meeting. But I was actually talking about how you're dealing with the Alaric situation." Sophia replied, watching as the easy smile fell away to be replaced with a pained look. Caroline sighed a little before shrugging.

"I'm dealing. I was mad at first, but I realized that it's not Alaric's fault, not really. He wasn't himself when it happened, so I can't be mad at him. Plus, I've killed people before, so I'm not innocent either."

"Really? You're really able to just forgive him?" Sophia asked in surprise, as she'd thought her friend would've been taking it harder.

"Yeah. I mean, I'm still sad my dad is…gone, you know. But I don't want to hold on to that anger, especially when the real culprit is gone."

"Well…I'm glad. I hate what happened to your dad, you know I know how it is to lose a parent; but I'm glad you're doing alright." Sophia smiled and squeezed the blonde's hand, who returned the grin.

"Let's go eat." The two friends linked arms and headed into the cafeteria, joining the long line to get some food.

Sophia's stomach rolled violently at the smells permeating the cafeteria, but she still grabbed a tray. The thought of eating made the nausea worse, but she knew she had to eat something. Plus, the others would think something was up if she didn't, as they all knew how much she loved food. Hopefully the lack of morning sickness would continue and she'd keep the lunch down, as she so wasn't a fan of vomiting.

When they reached the table Elena had grabbed, Bonnie was already there, as was Rebekah. The Original didn't look thrilled to be there, as she still disliked Elena, but she wasn't making a scene, so that was good. Sophia knew they wouldn't all get along all the time; they were all strongly opinionated women and that could cause problems whenever they clashed. So she was just grateful they seemed to at least be on speaking terms, because she really couldn't deal with any drama right now.

Sophia slid onto the bench next to Rebekah, providing a barrier between her and Elena just to keep the peace. The vampire gave her a smile as she picked through the atrocity that the school called food, making a mental note to have the chef prepare their lunches from now on. There was no way she was going to let her niece or nephew eat this; not when they needed to grow healthy and strong. She highly doubted the lunch food had any nutritional value whatsoever and that was simply unacceptable.

"You know what I just realized? We've never actually all had lunch together." Bonnie commented, filling the silence that'd descended on the table.

"Yeah. Strange." Elena nodded with a shrug, taking a bite out of her cheeseburger.

"Well, we've never all been on the same page, have we? It's not surprising we haven't dined together when you lot were trying to kill my brother and betraying Sophia." Rebekah said snottily, getting an elbow to the side from the witch. But she didn't look sorry; the blonde just raised a brow in challenge.

"That's all behind us; water under the bridge. So Care, what are you thinking for the Decades' dance?" Sophia changed the subject, not even bothering to get annoyed with the Original. She was a 1000+ year old vampire and there wasn't much to be done about her elitism and attitude. At least she was okay with the no-killing rule, so that was something.

"I'm leaning towards the '70s. We'll plan it all out at the committee meeting." Caroline replied, ignoring the snort from Rebekah, not wanting to let the other vampire get to her.

"The 1970s? Really?" Bonnie gave her a look that said she didn't approve of the idea.

"What's wrong with the '70s?"

"Besides it being the decade of bad hair and tacky clothes? Nothing." Sophia replied, forcing herself to start eating. The first few bites were hard to get down with her rolling stomach, but then a ravenous hunger took over and she couldn't swallow fast enough.

"Why not do the 1920s? It was a marvelous decade, full of jazz and illegal liquor, the threat of a raid always hanging in the air and heightening the atmosphere." The Original said, watching the witch out of the corner of her eye, noting how quickly she was devouring her lunch.

"Sorry Care, but that does sound more fun." Elena commented, getting an irritated look from her friend. The Original just smirked as she discretely slid the roll she wasn't going to eat over to Sophia, who took it gratefully.

"Fine, fine, whatever. We'll put it to a vote I guess." Caroline shrugged, obviously not pleased her idea had been so poorly received. But whatever, it wasn't like she cared that much. Okay, so she did, but she wasn't going to let Rebekah see her get upset about it.

"You should chew, Sophia, or you're gonna choke." Elena said in amusement, bringing everyone's attention to the other Gilbert, who had a roll to her lips.

"Are they not feeding you or something? I haven't seen you scarf down food that fast since the State Fair in '05. You remember, she entered the eating contest." Caroline laughed.

"Yeah. She was sick the whole night. Dad was worried about her clogging the line." Elena replied with a shake of her head. Sophia blushed and dropped the bread back onto her tray, wiping her mouth with a napkin.

"Sorry. I skipped breakfast this morning." She mumbled, pushing the tray away from her.

"Man I remember that night. It was right before freshman year and you were trying to get Matt to make a move. Do you remember that?" Bonnie grinned, her eyes moving through the cafeteria, looking for the footballer. Without Tyler or Jeremy there, Matt had taken to hanging out with his teammates, and they usually ate outside in the quad. Poor Mattie seemed to be trying to distance himself from them as much as he could while still being their friend. It had to suck to be a human in a supernatural world.

"That's right, Sophia mentioned you dated Matt. I have to say, if you treated him the way you did Stefan, I'm not surprised you're not together any more. Though it is a little shocking he's still willing to be your friend after having his heart so brutally ripped out by you, figuratively of course." Rebekah murmured, her gaze challenging Elena to deny her conclusions.

"Beks, really?" Sophia sighed and rolled her eyes, pulling her phone out to see what time it was. It was becoming obvious that those two would never be friends or even really friendly. Vampires sure did know how to hold a grudge. It must come with having an infinite life, as you have all the time in the world to get your vengeance. Or maybe it was just a skill perfected by the Mikaelson family.

"You know Rebekah, I never meant to hurt anyone. I would never purposefully do that." Elena retorted angrily.

"No, you just use them for your own purposes and then you throw them away. Did you even really love Stefan? Or were you always more interested in Damon, but you just couldn't admit it to yourself?" The Original questioned, her own emotions getting the better of her.

She might have accepted that her and Stefan were just friends who liked to share in specific benefits, but that didn't mean she didn't still have feelings for him. To her it'd only been a few months since her and him had been together and she was finding it a little hard to move on, even though she was trying; it probably didn't help that he lived with her and they were partaking in those 'benefits'. But she was a glutton for punishment it seemed.

"I love Stefan, I always have." The human doppelganger replied hotly, her own anger bubbling to the surface. Not only had she lost her boyfriend, but now she knew he was actually sleeping with Rebekah and wasn't even trying to hide it, all because she was attracted to Damon. It wasn't like she meant to like him; hell, she didn't want to be drawn to the older Salvatore, she just was.

"No, you love who you think Stefan is. True love, the kind you seem to think you have, is seeing the real person, not just who you think they are." The blonde shook her head and then pointed towards Sophia, whose eyes widened a little, not wanting to be drawn into this argument.

"What she has with Klaus is real, true love." Sophia and Elena met each other's eyes, the human almost pleading. For what, she wasn't sure.

"I never understood how you could love someone as…evil as Klaus. I mean, he's killed thousands of people. The Sophia I used to know would've never been able to be with someone like him." Caroline commented, bringing the focus to her and off Elena.

"You don't know anything about him, Care."

"So tell us." Bonnie leaned forward, her own curiosity aroused, as she'd wondered about the couple as well. Sophia glanced at Rebekah before shrugging, leaning against the table, trying to ignore the nausea that was starting to creep back in.

"For starters, he's a vampire…well hybrid now, but it's the same thing. Vampires live off blood and most of them don't use any restraint when feeding. Add that with being alive for more than a thousand years, and you have a massive kill count, that can't be helped. Holding that against him would just be stupid and immature, because I know that it's his nature and I accept that."

"But thousands of people, maybe millions even, have died because of him. Them." Caroline pointed towards Rebekah, who gave an uninterested shrug.

"Didn't you tell me just a little while ago that you'd killed people too? Should I hold a moment of weakness against you?" Sophia retorted with an arched brow, making the vampire grumble and cross her arms over her chest in irritation.

"I've seen the absolute worst of Klaus and I know what he's capable of, but I also know how much he's changed since we've met."

"How can you know he's told you the truth?" Elena asked, thinking about all the things she'd never wanted to know about Stefan's bloody past.

"I…I did a spell, when he was holding me prisoner. It let me relive all his memories, from when he was a small boy to when he found out about me." Sophia revealed quietly, getting surprised looks from everyone except for Rebekah.

"You—you actually saw his memories?" Bonnie questioned, intrigued about what spell that was, as she hadn't seen it in her grimoire.

"Not only saw, but sorta lived. I felt an echo of what he did; all the pain and heartache, as well as the few glimpses of happiness." The witch replied.

"That must've been horrible. To see every kill and to actually feel it too." Elena shook her head, grateful the only thing she'd had to see were the journals Stefan had kept. She'd tried to stay as detached as possible, but that was hard; to actually experience the memories themselves must've been hellish.

"I was shocked at first, but I understood why he did everything he did. I knew the motivations behind his actions and I realized that he wasn't as bad as everyone thought he was." Sophia said, an eye seeking the Original's out, silently telling her that she hadn't been daggered lightly. The blonde cocked her head slightly, a motion the witch knew meant she'd gotten the message.

"But still—" Caroline started, but Sophia shook her head and interrupted.

"You know what the problem is? You guys are still viewing the world through a human's perspective; you're looking at everything through the lens that humans are good and vampires are bad. But humans are capable of great feats of brutality, of hatred; to think they're the good guys is naïve. Vampires aren't automatically monsters, as you should know Caroline; they can get control over their impulses if they try."

"That doesn't mean they don't kill people." Bonnie commented with a raised brow.

"No, it doesn't. But to them humans are food, just like cows and chickens are food to us. They're the top of the food chain and that's just a fact of life; the only difference now is that we actually know they exist. I don't condone killing or anything, and there is a strict no-killing rule in our house, but that doesn't mean I'm going to hold the past against anyone. I accept who they are as vampires and trust them to respect my wishes not to hurt anyone because they're my family and they love me."

The table was silent, everyone seeming to think about Sophia's words; maybe for the first time actually trying to look at the world around them differently. You'd have thought being part of the supernatural realm for the last year would've made them more open minded, but it really hadn't; Sophia hoped they'd start to use their own brains instead of just agreeing with the standard vampire=bad perspective. The bell rang, interrupting the silence and signaling it was time to get back to class.

"I'll see you in History. I have to pee." Sophia muttered to Rebekah and Elena as they stood and took their trays to the trash. The vampire nodded and took her trash from her, getting a grateful smile before Sophia dashed out of the cafeteria, the need sudden and demanding. If this was what being pregnant for only a month was like, she was not looking forward to the next eight. Not at all.

/*/

"What are you two doing here?" Rebekah asked when they entered the history room, where Elijah and Kol were currently inside. The older brother was dressed impeccably as always, while the younger was much less formal in a dark blue Henley and jeans.

"I wanted to see what all the fuss about high school was." Kol shrugged, making the two take notice of the book bag that sat next to the desk he was currently sitting in. Sophia gave him a doubtful look, her arms crossing over her chest in challenge.

"Fine. I was bored." He grumbled at her look, making the witch grin in triumph as she sat down next to him, more students beginning to filter in.

"With the recent events, Mr. Saltzman has taken a leave of absence until he can get things in order. They needed a teacher, and I happen to be somewhat of an expert in the subject." Elijah revealed, ignoring the giggling that'd started from some of the girls, who couldn't decide who was cuter between the brothers. Sophia and Rebekah shared a look before the witch sat forward, her eyes narrowed.

"Is Nik here?"

"No. Why would he be?" The eldest Mikaelson gave her a confused look, one she didn't buy for a minute.

"Because you two are babysitting me. Am I to have every Mikaelson watching my every move?" She demanded with heat, getting irritated that they didn't think she was capable of looking after herself. It's not like she was a powerful witch hybrid or anything.

"Sophia—"

"Elijah?" The new teacher was interrupted by Elena's surprised voice, all of them looking towards the door where Elena and Caroline stood, both shocked to see the vampire additions.

"Hello, Elena. Please, have a seat; class will begin momentarily." Elijah motioned for them to come in, his handsome face complemented even more by the smile he wore. The human and vampire looked at each other before walking further into the room, their eyes widening more when they saw Kol sitting next to Sophia and Rebekah.

"What is going on?" Elena whispered to her twin, completely confused. Were the Originals taking over the school or something?

"Nothing. They're just babysitting me." Sophia grumbled.

"Why?" The witch shrugged, looking over her shoulder at Elena.

"Because they're a bunch of overprotective mother hens."

"I am not a mother hen!" Kol retorted in outrage, his expression comical.

"Really? If it walks like a chicken, and clucks like a chicken—" Sophia taunted with a smirk.

"Elijah! She's being mean!" He pouted outrageously, making several of the students chuckle. Rebekah just rolled her eyes, more interested in her roommate, who'd just walked into class. Stefan arched a brow at the two new additions, but he didn't comment as he took his seat, figuring they'd tell him what was going on later.

"Children! Don't make me separate you." Elijah pointed threateningly, making the two share a look before they started snickering. The older vampire ignored them and turned to the class, giving them a charming smile that had the teen girls swooning in their seats. Too bad they were really barking up the wrong tree, as Elijah would never go for any of them.

"My name is Mr. Mikaelson and I'll be your teacher until Mr. Saltzman returns. Now…"

/*/

"Oh my god!" Klaus vamped into the closet at Sophia's exclamation, his eyes darting around, looking for a threat; but they were the only two in the room.

"What's wrong?" He asked in concern, turning to face her. Sophia was standing in front of one of the full length mirrors, the robe she'd been wearing after her shower crumpled on the floor carelessly.

"What's wrong? Are you kidding? Look at me!" The witch twirled around so she was facing him, her breasts moving enticingly with the sudden movement.

"I don't see anything." Klaus shook his head, his eyes raking in her naked beauty.

It didn't seem to matter that it was getting colder, her skin was still sun-kissed and smooth, tempting him to glide his fingertips over the silken skin. Her breasts had swelled a little with the increase of hormones and he was only deterred from seeking out both their pleasure by the constant state of nausea Sophia had been in for the last couple of weeks. And while he was starting to go into withdrawal from not having her, he was grateful the queasiness wasn't as painful as the cramping had been, because he hated to see her in pain.

"My stomach, Nik! It's already starting to show!" Sophia whined, looking down at her tummy. The vampire moved forward to get a closer look, not seeing what had obviously upset her.

"Darling, I really don't see anything." He murmured in confusion. She rolled her eyes and grabbed his hand, lying in against her lower abdomen and letting him feel the swell that had seemed to become more pronounced overnight.

"See! I shouldn't be this big yet!" Klaus had to take a minute to remember how to speak, his mind having gone blank at the feel of her protruding stomach, knowing that his child was within. It really was a remarkable thing and it made every protective instinct he had surge to the forefront. He would do anything to protect the small life within her.

"The book did mention that all women are different, sweetheart. You might just be showing early; it's completely normal." He tried to sooth, but her eyes didn't lose any of their uneasiness.

"Not at 5 weeks, Nik. Most women don't even know they're pregnant until at least 6 weeks, if not later. We need to see a doctor, to make sure everything is ok."

"You think there may be something wrong with the baby?" He questioned gruffly, his brows furrowing in worry. Sophia laid her hand over the one that was still on her stomach, squeezing his fingers.

"I don't know, Nik. There's never been a hybrid baby before, so we really don't know what to expect. They could be growing faster than a normal child; or something like that. But we won't know until we go see a doctor." The Original swallowed over the fear that'd filled him at her words, nodding and returning her hand squeeze.

"Alright, but we can't go to the humans, just in case. I'll put word out that I need a midwife and we'll have a room set up here to monitor the pregnancy." She smiled and leaned forward to place a light kiss on his lips; she pulled away suddenly, her face going green at the smell of his cologne. Klaus barely had a chance to move back before she was rushing to the bathroom, the dreaded vomiting finally arriving.

The vampire picked up her discarded robe and followed her into the bathroom, squatting next to her to hold her hair back from her face. Sophia heaved until all that was left was acid, her face scrunched up in disgust.

"I really hate this." She muttered as he helped her stand and into the robe.

"I know, and I'm sorry." He whispered, hating that she was having to deal with this, even though he was still amazed at the prospect of being a father. Sophia glanced at him in the mirror as she loaded her toothbrush with paste, their eyes meeting.

"Hey, I'll get over it, Nik. It's just a little hard right now." She tried to smile as her stomach continued to quiver, not wanting him to think she didn't love their baby. Because even as it was making her body change in scary ways, they were still a part of each of them and she loved them already. That didn't mean she still wasn't petrified of being a mother, because she was; but, she knew that she'd love their child no matter how hard or uncomfortable things became.

"I'll go make you some toast." He kissed her shoulder, getting a grateful smile in response before he left.

Sighing, Sophia quickly brushed her teeth and used her mouthwash; when done, she stared at herself in the mirror for another moment before opening the robe and standing sideways so she could see her stomach better.

"Well, baby, I guess you don't want to stay hidden for long. But if you could maybe ease up on the morning sickness, I would really appreciate it. Mommy hates throwing up." She murmured, hand smoothing over the curved belly. She knew that if it was developing naturally that it was only the size of a poppy seed and didn't even have ears or anything yet, but she still liked to think they could understand her, if only a little bit. God, she was already getting hormonal; she feared what this meant for the rest of the pregnancy.

Even though the temperature didn't affect her like it used to, she decided on a white cable-knit asymmetric jumper, as it overlapped itself and made it impossible to detect her small bump. Pairing it with dark-wash skinny jeans, a white cream twist scarf and brown knee high boots, she pulled her hair up into a pony tail and accessorized with a chunky bracelet and simple oval link earrings. Satisfied with her appearance, Sophia grabbed her bag and headed downstairs.

She found Rebekah already here, sitting in the kitchen with Klaus, both of them with mugs in hand. Elijah and Kol were both absent, which was troubling because she'd seen the youngest Mikaelson brother chatting up a cheerleader yesterday and she was worried he might have gone out for a morning snack. But he'd been really good so far about sticking to the rules, so she just hoped he was just catching up on homework or something else less diabolical than killing. Fingers crossed.

"Here, love." Klaus motioned to the small plate that had two slices of plain toast, the butter and jam sitting in front of it if she wanted it.

"Thanks." She smiled and sat down, taking a moment to see if her stomach was going to revolt. When it didn't seem like it, she took a tentative bite of the bread, sighing happily when it didn't cause instant queasiness.

"So you're already beginning to show?" Rebekah questioned in surprise, sipping at her breakfast.

"Yeah. Apparently I'm not going to be one of those women who can hide for most of the pregnancy." The witch grumbled as she quickly finished her toast. Klaus gave her a questioning look, nodding towards her plate in question; she smiled and nodded, signaling that she'd be able to keep something more substantial down.

Standing, the hybrid moved over to the fridge, grabbing one of the premade meals the chef had made upon Rebekah's demand. It wasn't anything too big, just a fruit salad, but it would be good to get something on her stomach before the nausea returned. Opening the Tupperware, he grabbed a fork and went back to the table, handing the witch the container.

"Thanks." She smiled again before digging in.

"The good news is that the flapper dress we got for the dance will cover your bump; and I really didn't notice it now, so I think you still have some time." The blonde said, getting a nod of agreement from the witch.

"You have your tux, right?" Sophia looked to Klaus, her brows raised.

"'Course. I did live in the jazz age, sweetheart." He gave her an amused look.

"Yes, while everyone else will be wearing cheap reproductions, we'll be in authentic 1920s attire." Rebekah said with a smirk. Sophia rolled her eyes, knowing her friend really was petty sometimes. But she loved her, faults and all.

"Good. We need to head out to make it to school on time." Sophia said, leaning over to give Klaus a kiss before she stood and put her dishes in the sink. Rebekah grumbled something, but the witch ignored her and grabbed her bag, unconcerned with the other woman's complaints.

"Here. Make sure you take this." Klaus handed her a thermos to go with her packed lunch.

"Thanks. See you later." They shared another kiss before the girls left, leaving Klaus to call his contacts and find something to entertain himself with for the day. Maybe he'd start a new painting.

/*/

"Care, where are you going?" Sophia asked when she saw the blonde heading towards the doors, clearly planning on leaving early. Which didn't make sense, as she was the head of the planning committee and she was supposed to be there to help get things in order for the dance.

"Oh, Sophia. Uh—" Caroline seemed to debate with herself for a minute before sighing.

"Tyler's back."

"That's great!" Sophia smiled brightly, thrilled her friend had finally returned. The vampire relaxed, sharing in the witch's enthusiasm.

"Yeah, it really is. I'm going to go meet him."

"But why where you sneaking out?" Sophia asked in confusion.

"I…we weren't sure how Klaus would take it that Tyler was trying to break his sire bond. So we thought it was best to just keep his return on the DL, you know."

"Care, Klaus has never held the sire bond over any of the hybrids, let alone Tyler. Sure, at first he wanted to, but he realized that they're people too with their own lives. So I don't think he'll care that much about Tyler breaking it, since he wasn't using it anyways." Caroline nibbled at her lip.

"Do you really think so?"

"I do. And besides, if he didn't kill Tyler for sleeping with me, I don't think he'll go after him now."

"Klaus knows about you and Tyler?" The blonde asked in surprise, as she hadn't thought ex-boyfriends would have been a good topic to discuss with a homicidal hybrid. And boy were they an incestuous group, constantly dating within their own members.

"I told you Care, there are no secrets between us. Have you seen Elena?"

"She's spending the day with Damon."

"What? Why?" Caroline shrugged.

"Stefan wanted her to figure out if she really has feelings for him, so I guess that's what she's doing."

"Oh, okay. Tell Ty I said hi and welcome back." Sophia smiled again before heading into the thick of things, where Rebekah was directing with a clipboard. Apparently she didn't mind the young vampire leaving, as she got to be in charge. Why, Sophia wasn't really sure, but it made the Original happy and that's all that mattered to her.

"Are you going to tell Nik about Tyler?" Rebekah asked as she scanned the list of things that still needed to be organized.

"Of course. Now, what's first?"

/*/

"Is this really necessary?" Sophia huffed as she shifted her feet, bored as she stood in front of the window.

"You don't want to document this wondrous time?" The hybrid questioned, peering around his canvas, his eyes dark with appreciation.

"Of course I do. I just thought taking a picture and putting it in the baby book would be sufficient to have to look back on. I wasn't expecting to have to model for a portrait." She replied, rolling her shoulders before she quickly moved back into position, not wanting to get his irritated look again. But it wasn't her fault that she was uncomfortable, as she'd been standing there for a good two hours already.

"Film cannot properly capture your beauty; oils are the only way to truly show your vivacity and exquisiteness."

"Now you're just trying to be charming. I'm barely even showing! I think you're just bored and need to find a new hobby." The witch retorted, amused when he just gave a shrug and continued painting.

She wasn't completely happy with being naked, but he'd assured her that only their eyes would ever see the artwork, so she had to trust that he'd keep these private and away from prying eyes. Besides, it made him happy, so that was what was important; and it was neat to have an actual portrait of yourself, if she was being honest.

"Have you decided when you plan to tell the others?" Klaus asked after a small silence, trying to work quickly so she didn't have to stand there for much longer.

"Jenna called and told me she and Jeremy are going to head back now that Alaric's more in control; it'll take them a few days, so they should be here by Monday. But I want to know more before I tell them; have you heard about the midwife?"

"The coven that made your resurrection potion has someone they think will be able to help. She has to get her affairs in order before arriving, so I expect her to arrive sometime next week."

"Good, good. I don't know how quickly the baby's growing or if something else is going on. Once we find that out I'll come clean; hell, at this rate, I'll have to tell the truth in a couple of weeks if my stomach continues to grow like this." She murmured, hand sliding over the swell. To anyone else, it'd look like she simply ate a large lunch, but to her it was proof that her life was forever changed.

"If you're that worried I could compel a doctor to look you over."

"No, it's alright, really. I want someone who knows about our world and isn't going to freak out if I vamp out or something." Klaus's lips twitched at her words, glad she seemed to be in decent spirits; especially given she hadn't been able to keep anything down but blood and saltines today. The quicker they found out more about the pregnancy the better.

"Sophia! C'mon, we have to go help set up the dance!" Rebekah called up, her voice traveling to their room.

"That's my signal." Sophia said with a tad too much enthusiasm, making the Original chuckle as he finished his last stroke. The painting still had several layers to go, but it was at a good point to stop.

"You girls get too excited over a silly school dance." She shrugged and pulled on the underwear she'd set out.

"Maybe, but it's my senior year, so I'm going to enjoy it. We should be done in a few hours and then I'll be back to get changed. And with the entire Mikaelson family attending, make sure you're all ready to go too."

"Will do sweetheart." Sophia smiled and finished changing, giving him a kiss before leaving, not wanting to make Rebekah wait, as the vampire didn't have any qualms about barging into their room to drag her away. She really had boundary issues.

/*/

"Are you sure you can't see it?" Sophia asked for the fifth time, shifting in front of the mirror, eyes clued to the beaded area that concealed her stomach.

"You look fabulous, Sophia, stop fretting." Rebekah rolled her eyes and checked her makeup one more time. She was wearing a light cream flapper dress that reached just above her knees, while Sophia was wearing a black one that had silver accents. The dark color and beaded fringe completely hid any indication that there was anything going on under the dress.

"Okay, sorry. I just want to enjoy the dance without alerting anyone. And if I gave you the signal—"

"We'll make a clear path towards the bathroom." The blonde finished for her with a nod.

"I appreciate it. It'd suck to get sick on the dance floor." Sophia slipped into her shoes.

"It's no trouble; you brought this family back together, so it's the least we can do. Let's go before the boys start whining." Rebekah grabbed her hand, the two quickly heading downstairs, where the men were waiting.

"Ladies, you look wonderful." Elijah said from where he stood by the stairs, Klaus and Kol standing next to him.

"Yes, it's as if you stepped right out of the jazz age." Klaus commented with a smile, his dimples flashing as his eyes met Sophia's. She blushed prettily, her hand smoothing down her side before reaching for his outstretched one when she reached the last stair.

"I didn't get to experience the '20s, but you are very pretty." Kol said, the sulkiness clear in his voice.

"Don't be such a baby; I didn't get to enjoy it much either." Rebekah rolled her eyes and took the arm Elijah offered.

"C'mon guys, there's no pouting tonight. We're going to go, dance, and have a good night. After everything that's happened, I think we all deserve a fun night with no drama. So let's go enjoy ourselves." Sophia proclaimed firmly, pulling Klaus towards the door, the others following.

"As the lady commands." He smirked and helped her into the car, his lips brushing her bare shoulder, making her smile. He was determined to make sure tonight went off without a hitch. She deserved it, since he knew how stressful everything had been for her since she found out about being with child. All he wanted was for her to have a good time and enjoy herself.

/*/

"I'm just glad you're okay." Alaric hid a wince at Jenna's words, knowing he didn't deserve to be 'okay'. Not when he'd murdered people. And it didn't matter what anyone said, it'd been his hand that'd dealt the blows, so it was his fault; even when he didn't remember it.

"Are you coming back home?" He questioned, not wanting to think about the last few weeks. It was a tall order though, since it's all his mind could focus on.

"Yeah. We've just got a couple loose ends to tie up; we'll be heading out Monday. I've emailed you and the girls our flight info, so don't forget to pick us up." Jenna said, trying to lighten the heavy atmosphere. But Alaric didn't laugh or make a joke like she wanted; he just murmured that he'd be there.

"Uh—well, okay, I should be going. I have to start packing." She mumbled after an awkward silence.

"Okay. I'll see you Monday." Alaric felt guilty about his abrupt tone, but he couldn't seem to help it. His life was so out of sorts that he didn't even recognizes it anymore; nor did he feel like himself.

"Alright. Bye."

"Bye." He ended the call, hating the strain that'd developed between them.

Jenna was the only good thing that'd happened to him since his wife being turned into a vampire. She was funny and smart, easily able to keep pace in their debates; she was everything he'd ever wanted in a woman. And he was losing her.

It wasn't just his psycho alter-ego's actions either; the rift had started the moment he'd met Meredith Fell. There was just something compelling about the doctor; he couldn't pinpoint what it was exactly. But he'd felt drawn towards her, even though he loved Jenna. And that strange attraction had resulted in cracks forming in their relationship that just continued to grow.

Alaric didn't know if his relationship with Jenna could be fixed, but he was hopeful; especially since Meredith was keeping her distance since her attack. It would have to go on the back-burner though, because he needed to concentrate on taking his magical herbs and not turning into a homicidal maniac. There was no way he'd forgive himself if he hurt Jenna the way he had Meredith.

The man was pulled from his thoughts when there was a knock on his door. Expecting it to be Damon, who'd taken to keeping him company during his house arrest, Alaric swung the door open with a greeting. One that died on his lips upon seeing the woman who stood there.

"Hello Alaric. You probably don't remember me. I'm Ester." Alaric's gut clenched.

"What do you want?" He demanded, unease settling over him like a thick blanket.

"I see the witches have tried to leash your true self." The woman murmured, the large jar of herbs flying into her hand, surprising him.

"My true self?" Alaric questioned, that unease intensifying, since Ester shouldn't know about his alter ego.

"Hmm, yes. We had such lovely conversations, you and I." Ester murmured, walking into the apartment like she owned it.

"What are you taking about?" Alaric demanded, eyes scanning for viable weapons. He doubted they'd do much damage against a powerful witch, but he'd feel better if he was armed.

"Every time you died, you would visit the Otherside before returning to your body and forgetting. I found you after Damon Salvatore, your friend, snapped your neck; you were quite upset you'd given your trust and loyalty to a vampire who ended up betraying you." His gaze tracked the witch as she wandered around the apartment, setting the jar on the counter as she went.

"Damon is impulsive." He muttered, not sure why he was justifying the vampire, other than because they were friends. But Damon had apologized in his own way, so he'd gotten over it. Or at least, he thought he had.

Head beginning to ache, Alaric twisted the gold band around his finger and headed for the herbs.

"Yes, and others are always the ones that have to pay for his actions; innocents are the ones to suffer because of vampires. You won't need those." Ester stopped him from opening the jar with a wave of her hand, immobilizing him completely.

"What? Why?" He struggled against the force keeping him still, but it was wasted effort.

"I didn't spend those last months on the Otherside shaping you into the perfect vampire hunter for you to slip from my grasp." Ester said and grabbed his hand, pulling the old wedding ring from his finger and laying it next to the herbs.

"I don't…you did this to me?" Alaric was so confused and his head was beginning to pound painfully. Worse of all, he could feel something inside him struggling to break free, making him truly afraid.

"I need a hunter to eliminate my children, to free the world of the vampire plague."

"I've killed innocent people!" The teacher said angrily, his forehead beading with sweat as he tried to remain focused and in control. But it'd been hours since he'd taken his last dose and with the ring removed, he knew it'd only be a matter of time before he lost the fight. His alter ego was too strong.

"Those that help vampires are not innocent and they got what they deserved. Now, let us restore you to your rightful self." She smiled before placing her hand against his chest.

Alaric gasped in pain, his entire being felt like it was going up in flames. His mind fought the invasion for a few seconds before it was overtaken and pushed down, his very essence shifting. The malevolent presence settled into the driver's seat, ignoring the screaming inside his own head.

"Release me." The witch gave a pleased smirk at the low, deadly voice; she waved her hand again, the pressure evaporating and leaving Alaric free to move.

"Took you long enough to get back. I've had to be around those disgusting creatures and not drive stakes through their hearts."

"I know, but I had to gain more power before our plan could be completed. Do you have it?"

Alaric moved away from her so he could grab something out of his bureau. He came back to stand in front of her, the old Wickery Bridge sign in his hands.

"My—weaker self didn't return to his apartment and I've been too busy getting rid of those that willingly helped the beasts to make a stake." He said gruffly.

"No matter, you can shape it while I'm gone." Ester said before starting a chant, her hand lying flat against the sign.

The wood seemed to groan before it literally began to break off into different lengths, the sign quickly demolished. Alaric squatted and rummaged through the pile, selecting a few decent lumps of wood before standing.

"You need but one. Get any tools you'll need and let us go. We still have much to do." He nodded and went to do as commanded, already eager with anticipation of finally killing the Mikaelsons and Salvatores. He'd waited a long time for this and he was going to enjoy every minute of this.

/*/

"I thought this was supposed to look like a speakeasy." Klaus muttered as they walked into the gym, his gaze raking over the cheap decorations in distaste.

"Hey, we had a limited budget and had to improvise; it's a high school dance, not a Broadway reproduction. And besides, most of us aren't as old as dirt, so we don't really know what the 1920s were like except for what we see in movies." Sophia retorted, sticking her tongue out at him childishly. Klaus pulled her against him, unable to resist the temptation that she was.

"I've been charged with monitoring the buffet table, so I shall be off." Elijah muttered and headed away, wondering why he'd agreed to this. He'd taken the position of educator to keep an eye on Sophia, Rebekah and Kol; he did not anticipate he'd be made to be surrounded by loud, inconsiderate teenagers even when he was not in class. He was not fond of it.

"I see my date. Ta." Kol sauntered over to where Casey, the cheerleader he'd been talking up, was standing with her friends.

"Should I be worried about that?" Sophia asked quietly, eyes tracking the youngest brother's progression, really not wanting to find out the annoying blonde had been found dead.

"Nah, Kol isn't that big of an idiot."

"Good. Let's dance." She smiled and pulled Klaus towards the throng of students, almost bumping into her sister as she went.

"Elena! Hey. Stefan. You're—you came together." She stumbled over her words, not expecting them to be there…together. The last she'd heard, Elena had been spending time with Damon to figure out her feelings for the older Salvatore.

"Sophia, hi. I love your dress." Elena smiled, her arm curled around Stefan's. They must have made quite the picture, Elena in a pure white while Sophia wore black and silver.

"I'm going to get a drink." Rebekah muttered and moved away, making Sophia wince internally, knowing it must be hard to see Stefan once more with Elena, even when she'd acknowledged that they were just friends with benefits. But you'd have thought Stefan would've had the courtesy to at least tell the Original that he was going with his ex so she wasn't surprised. Douche move.

"Thanks, Lena. I love your dress too. So uh, you two are here together." She knew she'd already said that, but it was still a shock. She hadn't really been part of her sister's life in a long time, so she really shouldn't be so surprised she didn't know what was going on with her. It hurt to see how much they'd grown apart over the last year.

"Yeah. We're…gonna dance." Elena said uncomfortably before pulling the vampire away, not wanting to see her sister's judgey eyes. The witch might claim not to judge her, but she knew her twin didn't like the way she was handling things. But it wasn't as if she really knew what she was doing, so the doppelganger thought she deserved a little bit of a break.

"Come love, let us not let other's poor decisions ruin our night." Klaus wrapped an arm around her, his other hand pulling hers up to grasp, slowly starting to move to the now slow music.

Sophia sighed and nodded, trying not to let herself get distracted from the feel of him, but her eyes couldn't stop roaming around the gym, pinpointing her friends. Bonnie was with a guy Sophia didn't know, but she looked happy; Caroline was wearing a deep red number, dancing happily with Tyler, who'd finally returned to Mystical Falls after breaking his sire bond.

The once close friends were all separated now, the life they led forcing them to grow up and become their own persons. And Sophia was on the outskirts, no matter that the other girls had started including her again; she'd always be on the outside as long as the others hated and distrusted the Originals. It was a sad reality she really wished was different.

"Do you really not care that Tyler broke your sire bond?" She asked quietly, moving with him as he led her around the floor. She'd told him of Tyler's return and his apparent success, but she still needed to know for sure that her friend was safe.

"I promised you I would not harm your friends, Sophia, and I mean to keep my word." Klaus replied softly.

"That doesn't answer my question." She said with a small shake of her head, not wanting to just let this go. It was important to her to know how he felt, even if she didn't like it.

"I do not appreciate him breaking the bond after I granted his wish of freeing himself from his curse." The hybrid glared at where Tyler and Caroline were dancing. Sophia slid her hand up his side until her palm rested against his cheek, bringing his attention back to her.

"Even though you weren't using it?" He shrugged.

"The sire bond…it is a link between me and those I've brought into the fold. It does not act simply as a way for me to control them or to get their compliance; I can feel them. I knew the very moment he succeeded in breaking the tie."

"Why didn't you say anything?" They'd stopped dancing and were now just standing in the middle of the moving bodies, attention focused solely on each other.

"I was angry and did not want you to think I would go against my promise when Tyler returned." He admitted, his eyes lowering a little. Sophia's nails scraped a little over his stubble, bringing his gaze back up to hers.

"Nik, you never have to keep your feelings a secret, no matter what. I'm not going be mad that you have emotions or opinions that differ from mine." She whispered, making his lips stretch into a small smile. He stroked a hand over her hair before it trailed down to her side, his palm sliding in until it just barely touched the slight curve hidden under the fringed beading.

Sophia's breath hitched at the caress, her heart speeding up as her body was suddenly flooded with arousal. But she barely even got to move before the excitement turned to pain, making her wince and clutch at the hand that rested against her stomach.

"What's wrong? Is it the baby again? Do you need to see the doctor?" Klaus asked in alarm, hating she was constantly in pain. He never would've been so careless with her if he would've known bearing his child would be so painful for her. Sophia was the light of his life and she didn't deserve to suffer so.

"No…I mean, yes, but I don't think anything is wrong with the baby. I—" She winced again at a sharp stabbing sensation, not protesting when Klaus led her away from the dancing students.

"If it isn't the child, then what is wrong? You've been getting stomach pains for weeks now." Klaus motioned to Rebekah and Elijah, who were situated not too far from their position, grabbing their attention and signaling that something was wrong.

"I think—uhg—I think it's a warning."

"Warning? What's wrong?" Elijah questioned as he came to stand next to them, taking note on how pale she'd gotten.

"Should've known we couldn't enjoy one simple dance." Rebekah muttered in annoyance, glancing around to see if she could spot Kol, but he appeared to have disappeared with that little blonde trollop.

"I've been thinking about this, especially since I haven't felt any more pain since we went to the doctors. Every time my stomach hurts, something is wrong. It did it with Ester, who we know is evil and hell-bent on all of our destruction, and with Alaric when he was about to turn into Evil!Alaric."

"You're saying that our…our child can sense these things even before we can?" The hybrid asked with wide eyes, hand going to her stomach again without thought, trying to see if he could feel anything.

"I think so. That or the witches are warning me through them." Sophia said quietly, swallowing down the bile that was threatening.

"Remarkable." The older Mikaelson murmured, completely thrown. They'd never expected a baby Mikaelson was even possible, but now add in the possibility of it having awareness this early on, it was astounding.

"So you're getting a warning right now?" Klaus smoothed a hand over her hair, wishing he could ease her discomfort.

"Yeah." She nodded, glancing around the gym, looking for anything amiss.

"In this town that could mean literally anything. This town is more tragic then even New Orleans." Rebekah muttered, disappointed she wasn't going to get to enjoy the dance.

She'd been miffed about Stefan coming with Elena, but she was determined not to let it get to her, because she'd known that was how it was going to end. She was no longer that needy girl that grabbed at any crumbs thrown her way; she had more self-confidence now and she wasn't going to let him and his insufferable date ruin her night.

She didn't have to worry about it now though, since they were apparently going to have to solve another problem in the godforsaken town. She could not wait to be rid of Mystic Falls.

"Damon's here." Sophia muttered darkly before pulling Klaus towards where her sister and the Salvatores were walking out of the gym, not wanting to miss anything. The other Originals followed behind them; they all came to a stop in the hallway.

"What's going on?" Sophia asked, dropping Klaus's hand so she could cross her arms over her chest as she walked closer to the three.

"None of your business." Damon retorted with an eye roll. Elena gasped when he was suddenly a foot off the ground, held by the throat by a very irritated hybrid.

"You watch how you speak to her or I'll rip your tongue out." He snarled, eyes going yellow as he glared at the vampire.

"As entertaining as this is, shouldn't we get back to the matter at hand? Damon's unwanted presence clearly means something is awry; and seeing as this is our home now, it is our business." Elijah spoke calmly, looking unbothered in his tailored suit, adjusting his cufflinks as if nothing was out of the ordinary.

"You can let him go." Sophia said softly, resting a hand against the hybrid's back to try and calm him down. They were all on short fuses lately, everything seeming to continuously snowball, giving them no peace or chance to simply relax. Thus was life in the supernatural world.

"Why're you here, Damon?" Elena questioned, wanting to get back on track and trying to ignore how her body seemed to clench tightly at the thought of Damon in pain. Klaus released his grip, letting the young vampire drop back to the ground, coughing as his windpipe repaired itself.

"I was supposed to hang with Alaric, to keep him company since he's on house arrest. But when I got there, he wasn't there and the spelled ring was on the counter next to the herbs. I could smell someone else had been there, a woman would be my guess." Damon explained once he'd stopped coughing, standing straight and glaring at everyone. He really didn't want to be there, to see the girl he loved on a date with his brother, but he knew something was up. So here he was, being tortured.

"Without that ring, there's no telling how long it'll be before he reverts to his other self." Sophia commented, making everyone's eyes widen a little.

"But I thought you and Bonnie bound him?"

"We did, but he has to wear the ring and consume the herbs for at least three months before it'd be safe to stop. It's only been a couple of weeks; he's nowhere near bound without that ring." She shook her head, grimacing as the pain in her abdomen seemed to sharpen with her words, as if agreeing.

"So what do we do? If he's sick then we need to help him." Elena said, glancing at Stefan, not knowing what to do.

"We've tried medicine. We've tried magic." Damon replied with a shrug.

"We could track him down and subdue him, force the ring back on." Rebekah commented.

"Or get him off vervain and then compel him." Stefan offered.

"To do what, pretend to be Alaric?" Damon asked in disbelief.

"The guy that we know is gone. We're talking about someone who not only hates vampires, but vampire sympathizers, which makes one of his most obvious targets—I don't know—you." Damon continued, staring at Elena, trying to get her to understand.

"You think he'd go after Elena?" Elijah stepped forward, brow raised.

"What are you suggesting we do?" The doppelganger demanded.

"I'm suggesting we put him out of his misery."

"What?"

"Oh, come on. It's what he would want. It's a mercy killing." Damon continued, undeterred by the human's shock.

"No, we are not killing Alaric." Sophia shook her head, arms crossed over her chest in stubbornness.

"So what would you have us do? Hold his hand and sing kumbaya?"

"We're forgetting that he clearly wasn't alone in the apartment before he disappeared. So we need to find out where he is and who's he with, so that we can get him back to his apartment and rebind him." The witch explained with a frown, her dislike for the vampire seeming to grow every time she was around him.

"As if it would be so easy. And what's to stop him from slipping his leash again?"

"You're forgetting, Damon, that we have Originals to help, as well as a very powerful, pissed off witch. I think we can take him and his accomplice." Sophia glared.

"I'll go round Kol up." Rebekah murmured before disappearing, letting her nose lead her, much to her dissatisfaction.

"How are you going to find him?" Stefan asked, thankful they seemed to have some type of plan.

"I'll need something of his, so we'll go back to his apartment. We should get everyone on the same page."

"I'll let Bonnie, Caroline and Tyler know what's going on." Stefan nodded before following the human, leaving Damon in the hallway with the sisters and Original brothers.

"Wait here Damon, I don't want you leaving before we're ready." Turning to see Klaus and Elijah, she smiled, even though they could see the weariness in her eyes.

"Could you both go get our stuff? I didn't bring my grimoire, so we might need to stop by the house too. I need to talk to Elena."

"Of course sweetheart." Klaus stroked a hand across her cheek, leaning forward to press a kiss to her forehead, making her sigh softly before he stepped back.

"Come with us, Damon." Elijah said firmly, brooking no argument.

Grumbling, the older Salvaotre followed the Mikaelsons back towards the gym, hating how messed up everything had gotten. He used to be the biggest bad in this town, and now he was surrounded by vampires that were more powerful than him and he had to watch Elena reconnect with Stefan. His life sucked.

"Let's get some air." Sophia linked her arm with Elena's and led them towards the side door, trying to understand everything that was going on.

"So you and Stefan?" She asked once they'd reached the outside, appreciating how her body didn't react to the cool air, since she wasn't wearing a jacket.

"I…shouldn't we be getting ready or something?" Elena tried to change the subject, but the look her sister gave her made it clear that wasn't going to happen.

"We can't do much until we get the ring and find Alaric. Now, you and Stefan?" The human gave a heavy sigh before shrugging.

"I spent the day with Damon, like Stefan wanted. And I—"

"You have feelings for him."

"I—yeah, I do. I can't help it, Soph." Elena mumbled, hugging herself.

"He intrigues you. I might not like him, but I'm not judging you for falling for him, Lena. But what about Stefan? You're here with him."

"I love Stefan, Sophia. I might have feelings for Damon, but I love Stefan. No matter what I feel for Damon, I never stopped loving Stefan. Does that make sense?" Sophia wrapped an arm around Elena's shoulders.

"You can't help who you fall for, believe me. If I had had my choice, I wouldn't have ever loved a vampire wanting to drain me and my sister so he could be a hybrid. But I didn't have any choice in the matter, and neither do you. If you say you love Stefan more, than be with Stefan. Just…chose one, Elena, and let the other one go."

"It's hard." She mumbled, head resting on Sophia's shoulder, overwhelmed.

"I know. But it's the fair thing to do."

"I know."

"How cute, a sisterly bonding moment." The two jerked away, their eyes snapping to where Ester stood a few yards in front of them.

"Ester." Sophia glared, hand raising to put the hurt on the bitch that had done nothing but cause problems since she'd arrived. Only she never got a spell out, because a searing pain lanced through her abdomen, dropping her to her knees in agony.

"Elena, if you wish to help your friend Alaric, I suggest you come with me." Ester said calmly, her own hand raised and pointed at Sophia, not letting up on her magic.

"What are you doing to her?" Elena demanded, bending to try and help Sophia stand, but the witch was curled in on herself, tears streaming down her cheeks as she whispered chants, trying to stop the ripping feeling that was coursing through her stomach. She knew, instinctively, that if Ester didn't stop, she was going to kill the baby.

"I will release her when you cross that line." Ester pointed to the white salt that'd been drawn around the school.

"I'll never help you!"

"I mean you no harm, Elena, but willing or not, you will come. Or watch your sister suffer. You're choice." Elena glanced back at Sophia, who was trembling with the effort she was putting into her own magic. Swallowing, the human stepped over the salt line, glancing back at her sister to make sure Ester released her.

Gasping, Sophia's eyes met Elena's as she struggled to push herself up on her hands, but her arms gave out. "I'll save you" She mouthed, hoping their twin telepathy still worked, even though it wasn't a real thing. When Elena gave a small nod, she sighed and closed her eyes, trying to catch her breath; her hand clutched around her stomach, trying to make sure the life inside was safe.

Her eyes opened when Klaus slammed to his knees next to her, a haunted look on his face. His hand shook as it wrapped around her shoulder, pulling her into him, needing to feel her against him.

"What is it love? I could feel—somehow I could feel your pain." Klaus confessed, confused over the phantom throbbing he'd felt in his abdomen. There was no apparent cause and he'd known instinctively that it was Sophia who was really suffering.

"E-Ester." Sophia mumbled, arm wrapped around her middle while her face burrowed against his shoulder, trying to breathe through the lingering pangs.

"What? Ester was here? Is she the one who released Alaric?" Klaus looked over his shoulder to see Rebekah standing there, fear and worry sketched across her face.

"We'll discuss this inside. C'mon, love, I've got you." The hybrid gently lifted her into his arms and stood, keeping her cradled against his chest. He wanted to demand an explanation for her state, but didn't want to cause her more distress, so he gritted his teeth and made his way back inside, ignoring the curious looks from the students they passed.

"Collect the others and meet back here." Klaus commanded his sister as he stepped into a dark classroom, watning to be away from prying eyes. Rebekah gave Sophia a worried glance before hurrying away, flicking the light on as she went so the room was illuminated.

"Is…is the child—" Klaus broke off, unable to finish the thought, his heart pounding loudly in his ears. Ester had already attempted to kill them all, including the baby, so it was inevitable whatever plan she had aimed at the same end result, sending him into a panic. It seemed like they'd been in a constant state of fear since they'd found out about the child's existence and it was starting to wear him down.

Sophia breathed out a heavy sigh as her stomach finally stopped spasming, returning to the dull ache she'd come to recognize as a warning. Klaus sat her on top of a desk, his hands framing her face, his sea-green eyes wide with alarm.

"No, it's fine. I mean, Ester did something—"

"What?" He demanded angrily, his fury mounting even as his shoulders relaxed at her reassurance. His right hand dropped from her face to press against her beaded abdomen, her smaller hand covering his.

"I don't know, but it felt like I was being ripped in two. I've never felt anything like it." The witch replied, body shuddering, her other hand clutching at his jacket to keep him close, needing him close.

"Are you sure you're both alright?" He questioned quietly, thumb stroking over her cheek, hating the tear tracks that cut through her makeup.

"Yeah. Or at least, they're still alive. I don't know if Ester's spell did any permanent damage though." She admitted, her breath hitching at the confession. Before anymore could be said, the door opened and vampires started trickling in.

"Rebekah says Ester has returned?" Elijah greeted, eyes scanning the two and ears straining to pick up the fast heartbeat of the fetus. But there were too many people around, making the quest impossible. He had to trust it was safe if the two were so calm, as he knew there'd be no force in this world that would save anyone how hurt their child and they wouldn't be able to speak so rationally.

"Where's Elena?" Damon demanded, eyes glaring, not appreciating having to work with the Originals.

"Ester took her." Sophia announced, squeezing the hand under hers before dropping it. Klaus took the hint, backing up so she could move off the desk, hand settling on her hip to stead her if she stumbled.

"What?"

"Why would Ester want Elena?"

"Is Alaric working with her?"

"You just let her go? I thought you were supposed to be some powerful witch!" Damon's angry voice drowned out the others. The room went quiet at Klaus's vicious snarl, the only thing keeping him from tearing the idiot's head from his shoulders was Sophia, who was clutching his arm.

"Ester cast a boundary spell and lined the school with salt before attacking me and threating to kill me if Elena didn't go with her. I couldn't follow because of the boundary spell." Sophia explained, wanting to get past this so they could move on to stopping Ester and saving Elena and Alaric.

"Does this have to do with Alaric? It's too much to be a coincidence." Stefan asked, moving closer to the witch to check that she was alright. There was something off about her, but he didn't smell blood, so that had to be something at least.

"Yes, I would imagine it does. Alaric's alter-ego was obsessed with killing vampires and those that helped them, which would work well for Ester's ultimate plan of ridding the world of vampires." Elijah nodded, mind whirling, trying to piece together his mother's plan.

"So what do we do?" Caroline asked, speaking for the first time. She'd wanted to rush to Sophia's side, but the presence of the Original family kept her where she was. Plus, she still wasn't certain how Klaus would react to Tyler and hadn't wanted to draw his attention to them. But the hybrid barely sparred them a glance, his attention focused on Sophia.

"If she took Elena, then that means she needs doppelganger blood for the spell she's planning. Though that doesn't really narrow it down since doppelganger blood can be used to multiple spells. We need to break the binding salt and find them before she hurts Elena or Alaric." The witch explained, getting nods of agreement.

"What about Alaric? He's not exactly going to rush to your aid." Damon spoke up, arms crossed, face pinched in worry. Sophia couldn't stand the vampire, but he loved her sister and would protect her, so she had to be thankful for that.

"Just knock him out." Sophia replied, as if the answer should've been obvious. Which, really, it kinda was.

"I thought it was almost impossible to break another witch's spell." Kol commented from here he lounged against the teacher's desk, looking unconcerned and relaxed. But those that knew him could see the tension hidden underneath, his body poised to leap into action at the slightest provocation.

"Usually it is. But Ester's connection to the witches on the Otherside has been cut off, so her spells will weaken quicker since she doesn't have an endless supply of power. Bonnie and I should be able to break it."

"I'll go get her." Caroline said, receiving a grateful look from her friend before she darted out of the room, leaving Tyler standing just inside the room. The other witch had wanted to keep her date out of this mess, but if Elena was in trouble, then she'd just have to get over mixing the two worlds.

"If she'd weak, will she be able to even cast the spell she needs Elena for?" Stefan rubbed at his eyes, wishing they could go more than a couple of weeks without having to fight for their lives. Being a vampire with control problems was hard enough without having people out to kill them.

"My mother is an exceptionally powerful witch, so there is no way of knowing how much magic she has left in reserve or how much she's collected since her disappearance." Klaus replied, body nearly vibrating with the need to kill, to finally put an end to Ester's terror and keep his family safe. She'd hurt his child and Sophia this time; there was nothing that would save her this time.

"What do you need us to do?" Rebekah asked.

"I need Bonnie to head outside and start working on the boundary spell. I'll do a locator on Elena and then join her. Be at the line so we can leave as soon as the spell in broken."

"Alaric has a map of the town in his room. I'll get it." Tyler commented quietly before leaving, breathing easier when he was out of Klaus's presence. There was no telling when the man would snap if he desired retribution for him breaking the sire bond and being around him was nerve wracking. But his friends were in danger, so he had to swallow down his own fear and help, no matter what the Original might do to him once the dust had settled.

"We'll save her, Sophia." Klaus said softly, hand stroking up her back, knowing that fear was already threatening to choke her. The witch glanced up at him, her eyes wide and wet.

"I know." She whispered before shuddering as another pang shot through her stomach, her arm wrapping around her middle.

"Let us give them a moment. We'll explain everything to Miss Bennett and accompany her to the boundary line." Elijah ushered them from the room, sending a worried glance over his shoulder before he exited the room. Tyler silently sat the map on a desk before darting back out, not wanting to interrupt whatever was going on and to keep his distance from Klaus, heading towards where the group was gathering outside the school.

"Does it make me a bad person that I want her dead?" Sophia mumbled, moving over to the desk to pick up the map and spread it out over the larger surface.

"No, it makes you human." Klaus replied quietly, hands settling on her hips, his chest pressed against her back as he hooked his head over her shoulder.

Sophia trembled a little, hands clutching at his to ground herself. She'd never wished anyone harm the way she did Ester and it worried her that she could have those thoughts about another person. But the other witch wanted to kill Sophia's family, herself and her unborn child included, and she couldn't find it within herself to allow for any possible outcome other than her death. If they didn't put a stop to her once and for all, she continue to attempt to rid the world of vampires by whatever means possible, and that was something that could never be allowed to happen.

"Okay. I'm going to start the locator spell." She said, centering herself. She spread the wrinkles out of the map, taking comfort from the firm press of him against her, drawing on their connection to keep her mind focused.

Klaus's hands moved around her, sliding from her hips to settled over her stomach, cradling her against him as he watched her work. It never ceased to amaze him just how much power was hidden in her small frame, even without her tapping into her connection to the witches on the Otherside. It made him wonder if their child would inherit their mother's talents, or if they'd be more like him.

He hoped they'd be just like her, good and decent, capable of bringing out the best in everyone, even those that didn't deserve it. He wanted the cycle of abuse and hatred to end with him and his own parents; he never wanted his child to doubt how much they were loved and how worthy they were of being loved. They would have the very best of everything; but more importantly, they'd have Sophia for a mother.

He'd been to every continent, to over a hundred countries, and he'd never met anyone like Sophia Gilbert. She somehow managed to see beyond his monster; she saw the broken man that'd hidden under the surface for the last thousand years and had started to heal him. She'd brought his family back together; she'd reminded them of who they'd once been and who they could be instead of just remaining as they were. And now she was gifting him with something he'd never dreamed of having since his turning and he was determined to be the man she saw, to be worthy of her and their child.

"They're in the old cemetery." Sophia's voice brought him back, his eyes spotting the area the blood had stopped.

"That's where I killed her." He realized, making her jerk slightly before she nodded in understanding.

"She's using that connection to enhance her power. We need to break the boundary spell quickly." The two hurried out of the building, not wanting to give Ester even more time.

"I can feel it beginning to weaken." Bonnie said when she reached her side, not even bothering with pleasantries.

"Good. We need to get out of here as soon as possible." Sophia muttered, hands reaching out to add her power to Bonnie's.

"It's only spelled to keep us in. The humans have been able to walk past with no issue." Elijah informed them, making Klaus notice the courtyard was nearly deserted when it'd been full only a short while ago.

"Matt and Jamie left to try to help Elena." Sophia had no idea who Jamie was, but he was obviously human, meaning him and Matt were in danger as well, making her work faster. She'd never forgive herself if Mattie got hurt trying to help them.

It took a while, the power fighting them, but they were eventually successful, the spell snapping under their combined influence. Sophia didn't even wait to acknowledge the spell had been broken; she was running immediately, uncaring about the heels she was wearing or the possibility of anyone seeing her streak past them. She could feel the others moving behind her, but she was of a single mind, uncaring of anything but saving her sister and friend.

Sophia reached the crypt as Ester was forcing the two teen boys to point their guns at each other, their fear stark on their faces as they tried to fight the compulsion.

"NO!" She screamed, hands thrusting in front of her, sending the witch up and back into the stone building, a loud crack sounding before she fell to the ground, unmoving. Matt and Jamie lowered their guns with relieved sighs, their bodies once more under their own control.

"Elena?" Sophia called out, eyes scanning the area, but not seeing her sister. That was until she and Alaric stepped out of the crypt; she rushed to her side, throwing her arms around her twin. Elena returned the tight hug, thankful she was safe, even as she was struggling with what had just happened.

"Are you alright?"

"Yeah. It's…she turned Alaric into an Original vampire." Elena explained, pulling back, a little started to see the place full of people.

"What?" Sophia asked in shock, eyes wide as she glanced over at the man in question, getting a sad nod in reply.

"She wants me to kill all the vampires." Alaric revealed, which wasn't that much of a surprise, even if his new state was.

"Damn that sucks." Damon said, clapping him on the shoulder, the most he'd show in front of others that he was actually worried about the teacher.

"Are you—" Stefan cut himself off, not really wanting the answer if the look on his face was anything to go by.

"It'll be my other side that'll be in control. It's too dangerous for me to complete the transition." Everyone was silent at that, the reality that Alaric was going to die sinking in. Elena had tears in her eyes, the other teens not looking much better.

"I'm so sorry Alaric." Sophia said softly, meaning it completely. She'd never imagined Ester would make another Original or that she'd have enough power to do it again.

"It's my choice." He nodded before ducking back into the crypt, needing a minute to himself.

"Maybe you should all Jenna." Sophia whispered, making Elena's eyes widen, remembering that her aunt and brother wouldn't be back until Monday, and then it'd be too late.

"Yeah, I'm gonna—" She motioned behind her before also disappearing inside.

"We need to take care of the body." Sophia turned at Elijah's words, eyes dropping to where Ester laid, her neck at a strange angle, eyes open and unseeing.

She stumbled away, her heart beginning to pound in shock and pain as the comprehension that she'd killed Ester hit her. She'd killed her. Sure, she'd wanted her dead, but she'd never thought she'd be the one to actually end her life, to take a life. Trembling hands racked through her hair, messing up the styled curls as she started to hyperventilate, terrified.

"Sweetheart, breath." Klaus was suddenly in front of her, hands clasped around her arms to keep her steady. But she was shaking too much, her knees going weak as she shook her head, only remaining on her feet because of his hold.

"I killed her." She mumbled, eyes glued to the body, unable to look away. Klaus pulled her against him, wrapping his arms around her, trying to hide her view.

"It's okay Sophia, it's fine."

"No, I killed her." She denied, unable or unwilling to disregard it. She didn't know when her cheeks had gotten wet, but there were suddenly tears streaking down her face, an unstoppable flood.

"I'm taking you home." He glanced over his shoulder, seeing that everyone was staring at them. Nodding towards the body, he got a reply nod from Elijah before he started moving, keeping Sophia pressed against him as he entered their house and went into their bedroom.

Kicking off his shoes, Klaus sat on the large bed, Sophia curling up against him as she started to openly sob, her body shaking so violently he would've dropped her if he hadn't had enhanced strength. He held her tight as she cried, trying to offer support, wanting her to know that he loved her. He hated he hadn't been able to protect her from this, but he was determined to make sure it didn't break her. They just had to get through this first.

She eventually went lax against him, her body slumping as she passed out from exhaustion; he laid her back against her pillow before standing and beginning to undress her carefully. Once she was naked, he crawled into bed next to her and pulled her back into his arms, needing the contact to reassure himself that she was alive and fine. That she was there and still with him.

"I'll get you through this, my love, I promise." He whispered against her hair, determined to do just that. She'd brought him out of his darkness and he would return the favor by not even allowing that taint to touch her; this would not break her. Ester would not break her.

AN: Holy crap, I am so very sorry! I know, I say that every time, but I really am. But I gave you a 30 page chapter, so please forgive me! I've just lost track with this story with everything going on in my life and I apologize.

By the way, I love The Originals like crazy, but I don't think I'll be incorporating it into this story. I might use snippets of it, like flashbacks, if they work in the frame I've created, but otherwise I'm not going there. Just wanted to let you know. Thanks for reading and review if you can.

PS: Sorry for the reviews I didn't answer, if you leave one I'll definitely get back to you! Sorry again.