When that which is now hidden is revealed
To you and beauty draws aside her veil
The phial of perfume is finally unsealed
And you may sip from out the holy grail
These assembled elements of delight
Will launch a new star in the starlit night.
- Rumi, When It Is revealed
"Hello," Adelia greeted into the phone, burrowing herself in the pillow.
"Hey beautiful witch. Long time no see," Damon said from the other end and she squinted her eyes at the screen, letting out a huff.
"Be a little original," she smirked, turning her head to look at a sleeping Elijah. "It's 4.30 in the morning, Damon."
"Sassing me, are you?" He snarked.
Adelia sighed an answer, "It's manners, but whatever floats your boat, Mr. Salvatore."
"The thing is suittie has become my favourite person," he said and the witch chuckled.
"Hmm. Indulging in a love affair behind my back you two," she hummed, switching on the bedside lamp. "I am very curious since you and the Original mix like oil and water."
"Fortunately, you aren't invited in the twosome," the Salvatore smirked.
"Sad little me," the witch humoured and turned around to trace her finger on Elijah's brow, making him stir.
"How sad," he continued.
"Very sad," she said as the Original grabbed her hand softly to place a gentle kiss.
"Tell him his little brother is terrorising innocent citizens of this peaceful town and that we need to talk," Damon said.
"Why?" She feigned a gasp, "Big ol' you not enough for Klaus that you want his big bro's assistance."
Elijah opened his eyes and plucked the phone from her hand, dropping a small kiss on his wife's collarbone before getting out of bed.
"Mr. Salvatore. How may I help you?" He rubbed his eyes and switched off the lamps. Tucking her in, he smiled apologetically and walked towards the balcony.
"Now you're talking," the Salvatore smiled into the phone as the witch watched him shut the door behind him before she closed her eyes.
"I was unaware that you will be in attendance this evening," Elijah initiated, his gaze never leaving Adelia's.
"The weather is very pleasant. We thought why not indulge in it?" Arnold replied.
"Sharel," the Original placed a kiss on her outstretched hand and continued, "Good evening, Miss Laurentis." He finished, repeating the action as his touch lingered on the young witch's.
The Beauchêne witch glanced between the two, noticing their interaction.
"Let's head inside," Rafael said with a smile.
Adelia looked around, "Where is Klaus?"
"I apologise, but I have not been made aware of his arrival yet," Elijah answered.
"That makes me immensely sad," she said with a pout, her finger flicking the pendant around her neck.
"And why is it so, Miss Laurentis?" The Original enquired, feigning hurt as they walked side by side.
"He is quite the entertaining character," she chuckled.
"You mean to imply that I bore you," he frowned, his curiosity genuine.
"Well, I never stated so," Adelia replied, "but if it did give you that impression of yourself, then maybe you sir, are indeed quite a bore."
"Hail the truth," Rafael echoed from behind them as they both laughed.
"This is certainly not rude," Elijah uncharacteristically rolled his eyes.
The witch glanced at him, "You reached the conclusion yourself, Mr. Mikaelson. I am not to be blamed."
The Original turned towards her and extended her hand. "If I may have the pleasure of a dance," he said with a smile.
The witch looked at him peculiarly and quipped."You appear to be a man who refrains from dancing much."
Elijah raised his brows hearing the same line she uttered to him five years back. He thought for a moment and played along, "Are you challenging my dancing skills, Adelia?"
They both shared a smile as she tightened her grip on his fingers when suddenly Sharel took it away with a hesitant smile.
"Adelia will not proceed," she commanded as the twin smiles disappeared swiftly. "I wish for her to stay inconspicuous tonight. Dancing with an Original might condemn her more," she gave an explanation.
Adelia nodded with a shrug, looking down at her fingers. "Whatever you wish, grandmother," she replied and continued, "I apologise, Elijah."
"It is quite fine," he replied assuringly. "But may I ask Sharel for a dance instead. It has been decades since she has graced the floor with me. Quite a shame if I let go of the opportunity."
Sharel smiled and took the offered hand, "Certainly."
"I am leaving and Kol, please control yourself," she softly glared at the youngest brother while putting on her cardigan.
Kol huffed, not looking away from the TV screen and exclaimed, "Exaggeration."
Adelia turned to Elijah and informed him, "I'll be back for lunch. Little work and then I'll pass by Lumiere."
The Original continued to read his paper and replied, "Very well. I'll be waiting."
"Elijah..." she coerced her husband.
"Yes, my love," he answered and turned the page of the newspaper.
The witch rolled her eyes and quickly bent down to peck his cheeks, making him smile. "Goodbye," she murmured.
He grabbed her hand as she moved to leave and pulled her closer to place a kiss on her forehead. "Take care," he smiled.
"I will," she smiled back, "You handle the monkey."
He shook his head and replied, "I will."
Adelia turned on her heels and exited the house within seconds when a familiar Titanic score filled the room. The noble Original turned his head to fix Kol with a look who was watching the bad animation with equal fascination.
"Brother! Your wife has an admirer," Kol said with a loud laugh. "This is interesting! What is it?"
"It shouldn't concern you, darling brother of mine," Elijah said and grabbed the laptop from him.
"Come on! The admirer sent it to you. He knows you and your laptop address!"
"It is referred to as an e-mail address," the Original pinched his forehead.
"It delivers mails to your laptop! Please correct your knowledge, brother," he rolled his eyes before picking up the console to resume his video game.
Elijah watched him for a moment or two before giving out a loud sigh.
"There was this intern who proclaimed your husband to be, in his words, shitty," Rafael informed Adelia who immediately deserted her work on the computer to narrow her eyes at him.
"Excuse me?" She exclaimed, leaning against the chair.
The friend set his bewildered gaze on her. "Why are you looking at me like that?!" He said and continued, "I didn't say it, he did but I didn't refute his statement."
She rolled her eyes, taking a sip of her coffee and replied, "I am choosing to ignore your enlightening conversation with an intern. You must've had the time of your life, talking of Elijah in that context."
"Come on," he whined, "Everyone knows your husband is a pain in the arse! What's new about it?"
"He is my husband!"
"Is the coitus that good you're defending him? Always?" Rafael contemplated after a moment with humour.
Adelia shot the paperweight kept on the table at him as he caught it within his fist. "Rafael, shut up!" She laughed at his statement and went back to work.
"Pass the coffee, please," he requested as she slid the cup across the table when Martha entered.
"Some mails have arrived and the envelopes state nothing important," the assistant kept the things in front of them.
Rafael pulled them towards himself and said, "Give them to me. I'll look into them." He said as and busied himself with tearing open the ends. "Martha, leave the door open," he told the older woman who was on her way out.
"Why do you have to eavesdrop?" Adelia questioned in disbelief.
"Who do you think gets the gossip mill running, Adelia?" Martha huffed out in a breath before exiting the cabin.
"What are your plans, brother?" Finn asked, looking down from the first floor as both the Originals glanced up at him.
"What plans are you referring to?" Elijah answered.
"To right the wrongs, we must decide the next course of action," the eldest replied.
"You do not have to worry about it," he got up, buttoning up his suit, "Everything is set. We will attain what we have desired-"
"Desired what?" Kol voiced in. "My only desire is to get away from this mess, Elijah. I am certain Finn prefers it no more than I."
"We will go see Niklaus," the second oldest reiterated.
"And then what?" Finn said, coming down the stairs. "Nine centuries and nothing has changed. Klaus is filled to the brim with himself, Rebekah does whatever he says out of fear, Kol chooses not to get involved and you Elijah repeatedly fail at keeping this family together."
"What would you have done if you were in my place?" Elijah narrowed his eyes, taking a step forward.
"Certainly not this," the eldest muttered. "Having a family outside of your Always and Forever makes you a hypocrite of the highest order."
"Lia is a part of this family," the Original glared at Finn.
A silence encompassed the room as Finn smirked, "Do you really consider her so?"
"How dare you insinu-" Elijah started.
The eldest Original interrupted him. "A kind woman of your choosing whom you call your wife is your reprieve from this disaster your decisions have led to."
Kol stepped in as the older brothers exchanged a heated glance. "Elijah, what Finn implies to say that he desires a wife for himself as well," he joked, hoping to calm the atmosphere.
Elijah took a step back and pocketed his phone. "We are leaving and I am certain our sister would be absolutely delighted to see you two," the noble Original walked towards the door. "I gave her my word to reunite this family and I will," he said, turning the knob in his hand and looked back at his siblings before continuing, "at any cost."
Elijah stepped out of his car in front of Adelia's office as the guard immediately approached him to take his keys. He nodded once before hurrying towards the elevator as he pressed the button to the top floor. A hand stopped the closure of the shiny metal door as Zachary stepped in, almost colliding with the Original.
"I am sorry," the teenager blurted out, observing the man in a pristine suit. He moved to press the button to see it already lit and asked with a smile, "Executive floor?"
"Yes," Elijah hummed impassively as the elevator ascended up.
"We were not supposed to arrive in suits, right?" Zachary asked anxiously.
"No," the Original answered.
"Oh cool. I am the new intern," he smiled and continued, "I mean not yet selected but I will be."
A small smirk appeared on the vampire's face as he glanced at the young boy. "Confident, are we?"
"We will see," the teen replied when the door opened and the Original gestured for the boy to get out first.
Zachary proceeded to move out and stopped at the reception desk as he watched the suited man nod at the receptionist before entering Miss Laurentis' cabin. He frowned and collected the pass from the woman while taking a seat.
Elijah saw her back turned to him as she pinned a set of papers on the board. "Adelia," he called out, effectively startling her as she turned around abruptly and put the pricked finger into her mouth.
"Elijah! I wasn't expecting you," she greeted him with a smile, walking towards him.
"You appear to be busy," the Original replied and took her finger to examine it, "I apologise." He kissed her hand and grabbed her cheek softly to peck her lips.
Zachary's eyes bugged out of his head as he took note of the intimate gesture from the man. He squirmed in his seat and narrowed his eyes at the cabin, watching the interaction.
"I have supernatural healing abilities," Adelia chuckled. "Were we ought to go somewhere? I don't remember," she furrowed her brows, flipping through her schedule diary.
"Your retention capability is astounding," he smiled, leaning against the desk.
"I hope that was not sarcastic, Elijah," the witch raised her brows.
"No, we were not supposed to go anywhere," the Original said and she breathed a sigh of relief. "Do I require permission to meet my wife?"
"Absolutely, especially when you bid her goodbye just," Adelia checked her watch and continued, "a few hours back."
Rafael stepped out of the elevator and approached the receptionist for the list.
"Sir, Mr. Laurentis is here," she informed him and the vampire looked at her in confusion. Zachary tuned into the conversation as he pretended to tap away on his phone.
"Elijah?" Rafael frowned as the revelation dawned over the teenager's face, finally putting a face to that name. He turned towards the pair present inside the cabin and observed them intently. Of course, that would be the dreadful husband; he was wearing a three-piece and how much Zachary hated those.
"Then I shall not keep you from work. The amount of envelopes on that desk is headache-inducing," the Original chuckled.
"So much for supernatural abilities, huh?" The wife smirked, making his lip twitch.
"Your passiveness hurts my enthusiasm," Elijah rolled his eyes as he took small steps towards the door.
"Your enthusiasm needs an Asher," she replied as he turned around to gesture towards the envelopes waiting for her. "Don't worry, I shall survive this as well," Adelia continued and pushed him playfully out of the cabin.
His eyes glimmered in love and longing as she closed the door, the glass separating the two.
"I love you," he mouthed to her as she gave him a shy smile before saying it back.
The teenager saw the husband get into the elevator, her gaze not leaving Elijah's as he nodded at her before the door closed.
How was he supposed to get into her good books if Miss Laurentis' husband was this immaculate? It unnerved him.
He looked at his sneakers and wondered whether he needed a new wardrobe. Maybe she'd like him then.
"Internal recruitment is a cost-effective process. It saves both money and time," an intern said as both Rafael listened closely to the group discussion points.
"Raffie," Adelia echoed, about to enter when the activity caught her eye and she stopped at the threshold.
"Let's be realistic. In an organisation, there are chances of internal recruitment more for its cost-effectiveness, but it doesn't guarantee the quality of work he or she is going to provide. Every management is biased and hence there will be favouritism," Zachary said as the witch's eyes widened hearing a very familiar voice.
"So what do you suggest?" Rafael poked to move the discussion ahead.
"External recruitment of course. It might be costly, but it allows a choice. We can configure various data hubs and that guarantees our control in how we want to proceed," the spectacled teenager debated, earning surprised looks from the two bosses.
"You cannot do that in management. Every existing employee expects PFs, TAs, insurances, and perks like recommending a potential candidate. You have to keep them happy as well. You can deny them once, you can deny them twice, but repeated denials decrease their work productivity," Rafael said with a glint in his eye.
"We can dedicate a percentage of recruitment for both internal and external. One internal recruit for every four external. It will lead to competition between the internal recruits which will give you better choices and keep the employees satisfied as well. In a business you cannot please everyone," Zachary said and pondered for a moment before asking a final question, "We will get vacations right?"
"First get selected, then we shall have a lengthy discussion on your vacation perks," Rafael smirked, meeting Adelia's eyes through the glass. She smiled at him before shaking her head fondly.
"You all are requested to wait on the floor downstairs for the final list," the coordinator announced as everyone started gathering their bags.
"I am going to mentor that kid," Rafael said in an excited tone.
"From when did you start doing that?" Adelia laughed as they walked the hallway.
"The kid has it in him," he told her.
"Zachary is not a kid," she answered with a sigh.
"Too much passive narcissism, but he has the potential," the Desmond explained and stopped as the witch turned to look at him, "Wait, you know that guy?"
Adelia nodded and shrugged her shoulder, "Kind of," she said and continued, "long story, I will tell you later."
Rafael chuckled to himself and shook his head. "The shitty husband comment?" He started.
"Coming to a circle, are we?" She glanced at him to show her disapproval as they both turned to look ahead to find Zachary approaching.
"He said it," he gestured to the teenager with a humorous smirk.
"What?" She frowned in confusion as Zachary passed by them, his shoulder lightly hitting hers.
"I am sorry, Miss Laurentis," the teenager hushed out and moved on hurriedly.
"It's alright," she replied, the frown did not leave her face.
"Come. We are meeting a new writer," Rafael broke her out of her thoughts as he tugged her towards the elevator.
Adelia looked back to where Zachary was as he turned around to glance at her as well when the elevator door closed in between them.
They glided across the floor slowly as Elijah's eyes searched for the young witch around the halls.
"You are still graceful as before," he said, disrupting the awkward silence.
Sharel at once turned to face him with a glare. "Have you developed any relations with my granddaughter?" She asked directly.
The Original's grip loosened in surprise at the enquiry. "Pardon me."
"You heard me fine. I expect an honest answer," the Beauchêne witch continued. The silence between them drew out as the realisation hit her loud, her eyes tearing up. "I told you to stay away from Adelia," she said softly as the Original evaded her gaze. "You defied me, you kept me in the dark. You laid a hand on my granddaughter, the one promised to another."
Elijah snapped his head at the mention of the other man, the pain of almost losing Adelia to the near-perfect physician blooming again. "Jasper has been dead for almost a year," he declared.
Sharel searched his eyes with sternness. "You do not deny it then, the physical relations," she answered for herself and then closed her eyes in defeat. "I trusted you, Elijah. I trusted Adelia. I trusted you to have a better sense. She is naive-"
Elijah interrupted her, "But not a fool. She chose to get involved of her own volition. I did not force her hand in this."
"Oh, I will have a chat with my foolish granddaughter, don't you worry," she laughed, mocking the indisposition happening right under her nose all this time. "Nevertheless, you knew the consequences of getting into this mess. She did not. You know about your brother's obsession with keeping your siblings to himself. She does not. You have condemned my Adelia for a lifetime and you must remember that you will be the reason for every suffering that comes her way," she finished, getting louder with each word as the other dancing pair glanced their way.
"Nothing will happen to her," he said, a little unsure himself.
"Your lovers might appreciate this sentiment in their coffins," the Beauchêne witch narrowed her eyes.
"What do you suggest I do?" He questioned with a heated glare.
"You do not have to worry," she answered, uncharacteristically calm. "I just beg you to stay away. Do not look at her, do not speak to her, go near her, think of her," her voice hardened as Elijah stiffened with each word as it went on, "From this moment, you must forget her existence."
His eyes turned soft as he gulped. "I canno-"
"You do not love her, Elijah," Sharel declared with a rare hint of understanding for another outside her family. She continued in a soft voice, "If you did, you'd have fought for her but here we are. No courage to demand your happiness from your brother and I will never choose this for my little Adelia."
Adelia entered the house hurriedly, closing the umbrella to keep it aside. Pulling off her coat, she looked around and went to the kitchen.
"Elijah! Kol!" She called for them, pulling out a bag of tomatoes from the refrigerator. Keeping the bag over the counter, she waited for a beat as no response came. "Kol," she tried again and stepped into the living room. A note caught her eyes as she pulled it up from the table, recognising her husband's calligraphy.
Off to Mystic Falls with Kol and Finn.
I am sorry.
- Elijah
The heretic closed her eyes and sighed deeply.
"Asher? Asher?"
When no response came from her beloved pet who usually came running at her arrival, she took her keys and walked out in the rain.
Elijah stood before Klaus, wiping the blood off his hands with a handkerchief after killing one of the hybrids who barred his entry inside the house.
"You look surprised to see me, brother," the elder Original sent a smile his way.
The Original Hybrid glanced at the dead hybrid at his brother's feet and sighed, "Clearly we were interrupted. You look like you could do with a drink. And we have a lot to discuss, so shall we?"
"This place lacks a feminine touch," Elijah commented while taking a mouthful of scotch. "You certainly have made up your mind regarding your residence in Mystic Falls."
"Not everyone has the privilege of building a home with a woman who does not despise us," the hybrid chuckled and continued, "The status of the doppelganger ensues I stay here."
"Have you found any inkling of where the Salvatores might have hidden the coffins?" The noble brother asked, curiosity lacing his tone.
"Unless my plans end up disappointing me, they would conveniently find themselves a mere inch away from their demise," he smiled, pouring himself another glass.
"And after our siblings are retrieved, what then Niklaus?" Elijah questioned. "Why do our family remain in these coffins?"
"You very well are aware of what I do to those who expect to walk away unscathed after they have betrayed me," Klaus gave him a sinister smile. "But I only ask that you remember the oath of loyalty you once swore to me.
"You are turning more irredeemable with each passing day," the elder one said, thumbing the rim of the tumbler between his fingers.
"Always and forever," the hybrid reminded him and continued, "I need you to stand by my side. Be my brother. Help me destroy Stefan and I promise you our family will be whole again."
"Elijah!" Rebekah came running down the stairs to greet him with a warm hug. "I apologise for the things I said in your last visit," she said and looked around, "Where is Adelia?"
"Our noble brother has chosen not to inform his dear wife of his concern for us," Klaus replied, a smirk adorning his face. "I will forever be indebted for gracing us with your presence."
"Quit your dramatics, Niklaus. I presumed you'd require my assistance," Elijah answered with a roll of eyes.
"I assure you the coffins will be back in my possession by the end of the day," the hybrid answered.
"I trust you explicitly with carrying out your goals with immense subtlety," the elder brother humoured, "Good luck."
"I am still in favour of killing the doppel-bitch. Cut the root before it kills the forest," Rebekah told her brothers with a glare.
"It is an apple reference, sister," Klaus huffed out.
"Don't say anything, Nik!" She shrieked, "I shall say whatever I wish to say."
"Why don't you and I go out for lunch?" Elijah suggested his sister.
"And where's my invite?" The hybrid looked between the two.
Rebekah gave him a clueless look. "I thought you said you'd be busy retrieving the coffins?" She pouted.
"Unless you are willing to ask for my help," the elder brother added in.
Klaus rolled his eyes and took several steps back. "No wonder I dagger you all," he commented before leaving his siblings to fend for themselves.
"I thought you said we'd go out for lunch?" Rebekah said as she sat down on the couch, glancing around his brother's apartment he shared with his wife.
"Might not be inconvenient for you perhaps," Elijah answered, entering the kitchen separated from the living room by a thread curtain embolden by tiny mirrors.
"You will cook?" She looked at him funny, as he folded his sleeves to proceed with the apron.
"One tends to learn quite a many skills when you live with a woman," the brother reasoned.
"You lived with me for nine centuries," she raised an eyebrow.
"On the contrary sister, you are not a woman," a voice answered instead and Rebekah looked up wide-eyed only to find Kol sitting down beside her with a thump as he wrapped an arm around her.
She glanced at Elijah to find him engrossed in taking out the utensils from the drawers. It was then she realised that her noble brother's arrival had other motives if his knowledge about their siblings was anything to go by.
"Kol..." she murmured a little in fear, clearly remembering their last encounter in 1914.
"The dagger has served you well. Still appearing as annoying as ever," the notorious original commented with a smile.
"Elijah!" She exclaimed and turned to look towards her brother for any clue when she found Finn standing in her immediate vision.
"Finn... brother," she looked at everyone as her eyes became teary.
"Hello, sister," the eldest sibling softly sent her a smile.
"Rebekah, how do you feel about rigatoni for dinner?" Elijah's voice drifted in from the kitchen as the blonde took a deep breath.
"So that kid won a bid against you?" Rafael laughed and clinked his bottle as Adelia rolled her eyes.
"I let him win," she huffed and grabbed the pizza.
"Liar," he pointed out with another laugh. "Against you? Adelia Mikaelson? Wife of the neanderthal Original?"
"Why are you making fun of me?" She pouted and snatched away the pizza box.
His laughter echoed his house and the witch glared at him.
"Still digesting that you were bested by that kid."
"If you continue this for the rest of the night, then I will banish you, Raffie," she crossed her arms and looked away.
"How can you banish me from my own house?" He wiggled his brows and she huffed and chewed down upon a pizza.
"I hate you, Raffie," Adelia shrieked and threw her cushion at him.
"I hate you, Raffie," Rafael mimicked her before switching on the television.
"Damon is in all this," Rebekah said, clearly surprised.
"I believe we have different motives, but it works well for both parties," Elijah answered, eyes drifting to his phone only to see no messages from Adelia. She must have gotten to know about their departure by now.
"And you two agreed to this?" The Original sister questioned, still not believing a Salvatore and a Mikaelson could ever work together.
"Nik does not deserve my attention, but 1914 was yesterday to me," Kol started."If all your motives give a little reprieve to my heart then I am not the one to back out."
The blonde rolled her eyes, "We are all working for a single motive, Kol."
"You are delusional if you think anyone of us is in this for the family," Kol laughed and continued, "I am glad to not be the only demented party. Your always and forever is a paltry trick."
"Kol," Elijah chided him immediately.
"Your wife is anyhow very welcoming and extended her invite to live along with you two. I might drop in sometimes."
"Should we ponder upon this agreement of yours with Mr. Salvatore?" Finn stated, already tired with the arguments.
"Damon Salvatore is not the one to trust us so easily. He has a contingency plan and I fear he is conducting with us to buy himself time," the noble Original said.
"Trust Niklaus to make enemies out of fools," the eldest let out a deep sigh.
An inconspicuous Asher strutted in as he got up on the couch and sat beside his most beloved servant, his wagging tail hitting Elijah's thighs repeatedly.
"What is Asher doing here?" Rebekah laughed and cooed at the furry member.
Kol rolled his eyes and gestured at the specimen, "Elijah couldn't leave his beloved's pet all alone in the house. The small, vulnerable little puppy he is." He finished while looking at the dog.
Asher immediately jumped down, taking offense at the statement of him, the king of this household being called a vulnerable little puppy. He rushed towards the notorious Mikaelson to bite his shoes, drool dripping onto the carpet.
"And trust Kol to make enemies out of poor animals," Finn commented.
The siblings chuckled, watching Kol fend off the pet as it attacked again with vigor. The youngest brother unable to retaliate in fear of losing Adelia's favours, a witch and everything.
A hint of a smile graced the eldest's face as he witnessed the rare spectacle in front of him. The playful barks slowly drowned out the laughter that evening.
Adelia woke up with a jolt as her phone vibrated in her pocket. She blinked up sleepily and looked around to find herself on the couch. She found Rafael asleep on the other one opposite her, the lights from the television illuminating his sleeping face.
She took out her phone to see missed calls from Elijah and pinched her forehead inadvertently. The witch dropped her phone on the coffee table and got up to switch off the television.
She cleared out the pizza boxes and beer bottles to dump them into a bin and returned swiftly. Adelia glanced at Rafael and rolled her eyes.
Her fingers slowly unrolled the sock from his feet and covered him with the throw on the settee.
She smiled at her work and took her keys and phone before leaving the house.
"So I wasn't informed you were visiting," Matthew took a seat next to her on the log as they watched the pack children playing in the rain the next morning.
"Does the pack need anything?" Adelia asked the alpha of the pack.
"Not at the moment, they already have everything," he replied.
"That kid," the pack alpha pointed out to the one playing in the group, "triggered the curse last week. Not more than seven."
The witch took a sharp breath at the implications, not wanting to know the reason—wolves and their anger management issues. "I hope you told the Sheriff, the Council shall take care of the other legalities."
"I did. They weren't happy," he told her.
"Expected," she muttered.
"Neither are you," Matthew continued.
"Expected again."
He chuckled and she rolled her eyes, wiping her rain-drenched face.
"I cannot help with the first transformation, but I'll tell the witches to send in some extra concoction thereafter."
Matthew nodded in gratefulness as he rushed off to play with the kids.
She turned her head to look at the alcove beside her as a tiny smile flitted on her face.
January 1862
Seattle
"My father, my grandmother, and I did not travel for a fortnight for you to show me a forest," she humoured and clutched her heavy gown to avoid a puddle of muddy water.
Jasper took her hand and pulled her to him with a smile before lifting her up in his arms amidst the snowy pine trees as a giggle rolled out her mouth.
"Such a disappointment you are. I am to wed a girl who avoids muddy splashes when I roll into one," he smiled as she frowned in confusion.
"I won't allow muddy feet in our home, at all," Adelia said with a pout as Jasper maneuvered to sidestep a patch of ice.
"How generous of you, truly," he smirked and she pinched his ear with her nail as retaliation. "Oww," he exclaimed, making her laughter echo around the forest.
The good doctor put her down on her feet before backing her into a tree with a teasing smile as the wet from the bark seeped into her gown, tickling her spine.
"Mr. Reynolds, someone might see," she whispered as his arms caged her against the tree.
"Oh definitely, the wolves," he said as she looked up at him.
"There are wolves present in the forest," she clutched his hand in fear.
"And foxes and hyenas and wild dogs," he continued.
"This is not safe," the witch bit her lip.
He tugged her lower lip free from the torment of her teeth before joining his lips to hers as a sigh escaped both mouths simultaneously.
Adelia caressed his nape as her cold fingers made him relentless, deepening their kiss. She giggled and grabbed the strands of hair between her fingers, making him groan as he caressed her lips with his with an ache.
Their teeth clashed as she hurriedly unbuttoned his coat to throw it off, the white snow a contrast to the red. Unclipping her hair, he took a step back to admire his love before going straight to nuzzle her pulse.
Grabbing her impatient hands, he held it above her head with one of his before softly biting her neck as she let out a moan, her back arching and their chests touching in pleasure.
A throat cleared from behind them as both of them snapped open their eyes in horror. Her sleeves dangling precariously from her shoulder, she righted it and Jasper took a deep breath and turned around.
They rolled their eyes to see Rafael in the clearing, wiggling his brows with a smirk etched across his face.
"Shut up," Adelia hissed at him and fled the clearing.
Jasper watched her go before glaring at his cousin. "Not a word," he said before running after his betrothed.
"Children these days," Rafael sighed humourously before following the pair out of the woods.
A loud ringtone broke out of her reverie as she glanced at her phone kept on the log to see Elijah's name on the display.
"Maeve, you have made Elijah depressed. That is not a good thing to do to my brother," Klaus said on the phone as she sat alone in the dark kitchen having dinner.
"How are your hybrids coming along?" She asked.
"I have sent two for your protection, of course," he answered and she rolled her eyes.
"I do not need your protection," Adelia said.
"I cannot let anything happen to Maeve in my brother's absence," Klaus smirked.
"If all you want to talk about is your brother, then find a better candidate," she replied.
Elijah looked up from his book as he heard her voice in his brother's phone as Niklaus threw him a smirk.
"We need to find the coffins, and I could really use a witch right now," Klaus continued.
"I have to leave," she sighed loudly. "Goodbye."
Klaus frowned as the dial tone filled his ears. He looked at his elder brother and smiled. "So how much did you piss off your wife?"
Elijah rolled his eyes and got up to retreat upstairs to his room. Adelia would surely like their room. He fished inside his pocket to take out his phone and dialed one as the speed dial connected him to Adelia immediately. His shoulder deflated as it welcomed him to the voicemail.
"Klaus!" A voice startled him from a distance as he turned around to Adelia coming towards him, pushing the crowd away. As she reached an arm's length from him, she smiled and pulled the gown over her ankles giddily. "My ankles! See," she said and pulled him in for a hug.
"You are the abomination that the covens have been talking about," the witch said as both Klaus and Adelia looked at her.
"Pardon me," the siphon witch took a deep breath, never confronted in this manner as she looked around for her grandmother.
"Our elders say that abominations like you get stripped off your magic because you are evil."
"My grandmother was an elder herself, I do not require your validation," Adelia replied.
"I understand. Wickedness never needed justification," she smirked, moving closer to Klaus and intertwined their fingers as the Original glanced at Maeve hesitantly. "Even Klaus agrees that you are a wicked influence on his dearest brother."
Adelia stared at Klaus as he tried to find words to explain. "I suppose your elders did not have the courtesy to teach you manners," she retorted and continued with a glare, "How rude of me! I am Adelia Laurentis, granddaughter of Sharel Beauchêne. Wickedness runs in my blood."
The lamp beside them burst abruptly, showering them in glass as the trio got startled. Adelia took a step back involuntarily, unclenching her fist with a sudden exhale.
Klaus watched her rush away and glared at his paramour before hurrying after his little witch.
"Adelia Laurentis," she said, receiving the call as her eyes stayed glued to the papers in front of her.
"Adelia..." Elijah's voice came through the phone and she already pinched her head.
"Good luck with your plan. I hope it succeeds this time around," she said impassively, the phone clutched between her ear and shoulder.
The Original gave her a light chuckle, "Already demotivating me?" He humoured.
The witch let out a loud sigh."I cannot demotivate you even if I try. What I can actually do is sit back and be the non-judgemental, ever supportive, and loyal to the core, submissive and agreeable wife."
"I apologise if I made you feel that way. It was never my intentio-" He sounded regretful but she knew his regrets lasted as long as it seemed convenient to him.
"You insult my concern, my dedication to this family," she said, her voice a whisper.
"Adeli-"
"Send Asher back," she disconnected the call and closed her eyes with a sigh when a knock reached her ears. "Come in," Adelia said without looking up as she saw her phone screen light up with Elijah's name.
"Good morning, Miss Laurentis," Zachary gave her a smile, fidgeting with his bag.
"Zachary, please sit," she returned his smile. "How may I help you?"
He slid a file across the desk as she picked it up to go through it. "My letter. I need your signatures since Mr. Desmond should be on his trip to Richmond. He told me to get it signed from you."
"Congrats. I hope you get to learn many things and not just outbidding my auction preferences," she raised her brow as he blushed a little. "You are the last one so you must know that no organisation tolerates tardiness."
"I am really sorry about that. So which floor?"
Adelia got up and picked up her coat. "I'll take you. Time to pay a visit down there." She shrugged on her coat as they exited her cabin, Zachary following her slowly.
"There is no sunlight on my desk!" He exclaimed in horror as they stood in front of his cubicle.
Adelia blinked at the absurdity and rolled her eyes. "The other interns came here earlier than you, got their formalities done, and chose their preferred sitting spot. You were the last to arrive and therefore only this one remains," she explained calmly.
"I want a proper spot," he demanded, letting the bag drop from his shoulders with a thud.
The witch gave him a precarious look and smiled. "I apologise, but that is not how this works."
"But I need one," he continued as the people around started staring at them.
"And you won't be getting one," she replied in a firm tone, silencing her ringing phone once again, "I cannot cater for desk preferences."
"This is absurd," he commented.
"Thank you," she gave him a sweet smile and moved out of the room as he swiftly followed after her.
"You do not know who I am," he relented, matching her pace.
"I do not need to know who you are," Adelia rolled her eyes and grabbed a carton from the desk, throwing the vibrating phone inside it.
"If my fathe-"
She turned around abruptly, "Yes, if your father?" She raised her brows as he went mum.
"If my father... my father..."
"Your father yes?" The witch looked at him expectantly and huffed out a breath before walking towards the elevator.
"I am Zachary Wilson and if I want a proper desk with rainbows or even unicorns then I should get one," the teenager said, walking behind her, and Adelia stopped at his statement, him swiftly colliding with the boss.
The box fell from her hands, the papers scattering across the floor as she clenched her jaw.
She turned around and crossed her arms. "Kindly lose that sense of entitlement in work premises. You are an intern who has earned his spot here and not liable to get any additional perks, not more than any other intern."
"I was under the impression that an internship is supposed to be fun," he said, flaying his arms around.
"No work is fun," she explained, trying to keep her cool.
"I don't want to work anymore," Zachary whined out.
"Good luck," Adelia narrowed her eyes and smiled. The witch saw her phone ringing and picked it up as he bent down to collect the papers. "Elijah, please stop," she received the call, annoyed with everything all together and went to grab a paper just as the Zachary's nose slammed against his shoulder.
"Ow," he exclaimed, holding his nose.
"Why do you have to be so infuriating?" Adelia said, glaring at him.
"I am not-" Zachary started.
"No Elijah, I am not talking to you," she spoke into the phone before hanging up.
"I am not infuriating. You are FYI," the teenager retaliated.
"Four eyes are ought to be enough for you," Adelia continued.
"Maybe then you shouldn't have been in my way?" Zachary said, slowly losing his cool.
"You need to learn manners," she said, grabbing a paper as he went to get the same. She looked at him, "Seriously?" Adelia pulled the paper towards herself as he did the same. "I let you get away with that necklace. Leave this be."
"You are still holding a grudge for your inaptitude to win a necklace from me," he smirked as she tugged the paper.
"You are the most insolent man I have ever met," she immediately got up. "Collect these and send them to my office. Leave it at the front desk."
"Butterfly lady!" He called after her as she did not stop. "Your phone! It's ringing," he sang mockingly as she returned with anger written all over her face, hair undone now flying behind her.
"I am having a really bad day, do not infuriate me more," she told him with gritted teeth, her voice echoing the empty hallway.
As the witch went to turn around, her heel broke and she stumbled on her feet when he caught her instantly.
Zachary glanced at her hand clutching his Henleys and blinked at her, suddenly aware of her proximity.
Adelia moved the hair away from her face and looked up at him. "What are you staring at?" She asked in a stern tone.
"I... I don't... I mean-"
She suddenly grimaced in pain as a white coffin flashed in front of her vision, her body suddenly feeling depleted. Her knees shook as Zachary dropped her phone from his other hand to hold her up.
"Miss Laurentis, are you alright?" He enquired, looking around the hallway to get help. "Miss Laurentis?"
The witch huddled closer in her uneven footwear as she tried to get the images out of her head.
"Miss Laurentis?" He hesitantly reached out to cup her downcast face to get her to focus, tilting her head up.
Her fingers tightened over his arms as he brushed away the strands covering her face.
"Butterfly lady?" He whispered, trying to rile her up and she clutched the palm cupping her face to look into his eyes as the world shifted around them.
Dozen balloons in his hand as he stood outside a porch with a nervous smile–him asleep on a couch as a figure covered him with a blanket, a tiny bundle of hair peeking out as it lay sleeping over his chest–on his knees, kissing a child's forehead as she ran away to wrap her tiny arms around a figure, slender fingers running through her messy brown hair–him smiling at the toddler as she ruined his papers with markers-
"I look ike you da-da," the three-year-old said looking at him through the mirror.
"No you don't," he smiled, tying her hair into a ponytail.
"I do!" She protested as he picked her up and she wrapped her arms around his neck with a giggle.
"My wittle octopus is getting big," he sighed as she settled into his arms.
"I love you Zachy," the little girl mumbled into his neck.
"And I love you my little star," Zachary replied kissing her cheek and his vision turned dark before he slowly nudged Adelia inside a car as she stared at a retreating figure, a tear escaping her eyes.
Two figures dropped on the floor simultaneously with a thud, both sprawled on the marble floor, unconscious.
Blood trickled from underneath the band-aid as his hand lay beneath her head keeping it off the hard floor when a shrill ringing broke the stilled silence as Elijah's name flashed over the cracked screen of the phone.
Rafael entered the medic room to see Zachary awake and drinking a glass of juice, looking at Adelia peculiarly. The Desmond immediately cornered her and whispered, "Did you give him your blood?"
Adelia rolled her eyes and replied, "No, just an herb for the pain and faster healing. I am not an idiot, Raffie. He is just a boy, he wouldn't consider it Jesus' miracle if his wound heals within an hour."
"You should go home and get rested," he said, "and also get a new phone and a pair of shoes."
Adelia looked down at her bare feet abashedly. "Probably yes."
"I am sorry I was rude earlier," Zachary apologised as they both turned towards him. "I don't do well with orders."
"Fortunately for Adelia, you will be working under me," Rafael gave him a smirk.
"It's alright," Adelia said. "Try not to repeat it. I apologise for my behaviour as well."
Zachary glanced at her and frowned—did the dream thing only appear to him? He shuddered thinking about a child and himself.
"Why are you staring at me again?" Adelia narrowed her eyes.
The teenager averted his gaze quickly and replied, "Didn't you see it?"
Rafael jumped into the conversation, "See what?"
"I have no idea what you're on about. Care to elaborate?" The witch said.
"Wittle octopus," the spectacled boy replied immediately and cleared his throat, "I mean li-little octopus."
Adelia and Rafael turned to look at each other before they rolled their eyes.
"Absolutely. I saw a wittle octopus crawling away while you were napping," the Desmond smiled.
Zachary made a face and then shrugged—clearly his hallucinations were making him delusional these days.
Adelia smiled apologetically. "I'll see you two later. Safe journey, Raffie"
"My desk!" The teenager exclaimed in a hopeful voice.
"Not happening," the witch gritted out without turning back as she walked out the door.
The men watched her go when Rafael looked at Zachary and furrowed his brows.
The sun peeked out from behind the heavy curtains as the witch entered the room with a cup of tea, sipping it on her way. She moved the curtains aside to let the light in and opened the french doors.
Adelia walked inside the closet with a bunch of clothes in hand and started putting them in hangers designated to them. One day her hands were bound to fall off trying to rearrange her husband's massive collection of suits after every dry-clean schedule.
Her phone rang from the bedroom, the distinct ringtone signalling the said husband calling her again. She huffed and continued with her tasks, hoping it would stop ringing after a while.
She exited the walk-in closet to retrieve her clothes from the bed and turned around to get startled seeing Elijah leaning against the doorframe.
"I apologise," he started. "Sometimes I happen to take your love for granted, Adelia."
"You should go back," she said, picking up her clothes and continued, "I am all for another week without you and moreover, I have plans for the night."
He smiled and crossed his arms, "Found another husband?"
"Mm-hmm," Adelia hummed and entered the closet.
Elijah came to block the entry when she went to exit the walk-in. "Does he get you as mad as I do?" He humoured.
The witch sighed and glared at him. "As a matter of fact, he does. He very much does. He is infuriating, does not listen to me, goes against my words and makes me want to pull my hair out and his immaculate suit gets me all riled u-"
The Original pulled her into his chest as she struggled in his arms furiously. He tightened his hold and caressed her hair, breathing her in. "I happen to like your hair very much," he mumbled.
She looked up at him with a frown and asked, "You only love me for my hair?"
He pecked her red nose and cupped her cheek, "I am sorry, but your hair is magnificent."
Adelia stared at him ridiculously and started fidgeting in his hold again, a tear sliding down her chin.
"I truly apologise," he tried stilling her, "I really do. I am sorry, my love."
She hid her face in the crook of his neck as he felt the tears dampening his shirt. He kissed the side of her head and switched off the lights behind him.
"Mr. Desmond!" Jenna called him, approaching his car as Rafael turned around to look at her. He knew he couldn't visit Richmond and not encounter some sort of trouble.
"Jemma Sonners," he smirked. "I am already intrigued. Tell me."
The woman glanced around the deserted road started, "I saw Elijah in the town with Damon. I tried to call Lia-"
"She's on her way here," he informed the strawberry blonde woman. "If you'll excuse me, I have a flight to catch. Wonderful, that flying invention."
She followed him as he made his way to the driver's seat. "I kept an eye on Stefan for Elena and he has spiraled. They brought Sheila's daughter here and they are all talking about a coffin."
He stopped and looked at her in confusion, "Hold on. Who is Sheila?" He enquired.
"The Bennetts," she revealed. "They brought Bonnie's mother back to Mystic Falls."
"And you're saying that Elijah is involved," Rafael raised his brow.
"I don't know what they're planning, but the only casualty here is going to be my niece," she confessed and took a step closer. "I don't want this for her. Klaus will once again retaliate. I have already lost Jeremy and I cannot risk Elena as well. I need Adelia's help, please. Only she can convince Elijah to stop this madness." She finished.
He rolled his eyes, taking a step forward while twirling the car keys between his fingers. "Elijah may come off as obedient, but he is the one who controls their relationship," Rafael said sardonically. "He listens to Adelia when he wants to, let her words affect him when he allows himself to. If you're under the impression that she might be able to stop him then you are wrong. What he has planned will definitely happen. What Adelia can do is damage control and when his family is involved, it will be on his terms. Do not underestimate that man."
He opened the door to his car, taking a seat behind the wheel.
"I need my niece to be safe," she said softly.
"Your niece is nobody to me, Jenna," he said firmly. "Instead of trying to control the things around her, try controlling her would you?"
"What are you implying?" She said in offense.
"I cannot do anything," he finished before rolling up the windows and revving the engine.
Elijah glanced at his wife as she looked out the window, the wind blowing her hair. He changed the gears and sighed.
"You painted your nails," he started.
Adelia turned her head to give him a bewildered look. "I did," she replied.
"They look nice."
"Thank you," the witch uttered with a frown as they entered Mystic Falls.
"I missed you," he said, "and I apologise."
She did not say anything and watched the trees passing by.
"There's a dinner tonight. The Salvatores are attending as well," he continued.
Adelia took a deep breath. "I choose my battles wisely, Elijah," she said, "and I choose to not get involved."
"I need you with me," he said, gulping down her refusal.
"Please respect my decision."
"I do, I really do bu-"
"If you need me after the whole thing gets over, call me," the witch finished and noticed they have reached their apartment.
Adelia unbuckled her seatbelt to get out when he held her hand and she looked down at his fingers caressing her knuckles.
"I will," he said in a soft voice. "Thank you for coming, my love."
She nodded and got out of the car before retrieving her bag from the back seat.
The sound of the door slamming broke him out of a reverie as Elijah watched his wife walk the narrow pathway to their building, disappearing out of sight. He sighed loudly and switched on the ignition to get to his brother's mansion.
A bark resounded the room as the witch closed the door behind her and she looked excitedly as Asher came running to her.
She got down on her knees as the little pet climbed up her thighs to nuzzle into her neck.
"You have grown so big in a few days, darling," the witch cooed at him, rubbing his fur. "Did Elijah give you a bath?"
Asher barked and she kissed his mane, "Mumma missed you, did you miss me?"
He tackled her to the floor in response, making her laugh. Yes, he missed his servant and her tummy rubs. The other servant didn't really have soft hands.
"Miss Laurentis," a voice came from the living room as Adelia saw Finn get up from the couch.
"I hope you're faring well," she smiled and got up with the dog in her arms.
"We are. Thank you for your concern," he gave her a little smile.
"I shall retire," she said awkwardly. "You can have the room to yourself."
He nodded as she rushed inside the bedroom with luggage and a dog in both hands, Asher squirming all the way.
Adelia staggered a little and clutched the gown at her waist, trying to loosen the stifling corset. She never got angry that easily, but her temper got the best of her. Feeling an itch, she wiped her nose to see blood on her fingers and sat down on a chair as a wave of heat rolled down to her toes. She pressed her palm against her stomach, pulling at the corset again.
Klaus entered the study and sat down beside her. "You do not appear to be fine," he said, lightly touching her flushed cheeks, "and a temperature."
"I am hungry," she replied, eyes glistening and lips adorning a pout and continued, "I haven't eaten in a while."
The Original let out a chuckle and got to his feet only to reappear after a while with a Savoy cake in hand.
"That looks very appetising," she smiled and gladly took the plate from his hand.
"I did not hear a thank you," he teased, giving her the fork.
"If this tastes as delicious as it appears to be," Adelia raised her brow as she slowly cut the cake.
A shadow flickered outside the door as the vampire caught sight of it in confusion, his gaze falling on his current lover in the mirror as she nodded at him with a smirk.
Klaus' smile disappeared as he contemplated what to make of it and looked at Adelia. His eyes widened briefly before he grabbed the cake out of her reach.
"This is not freshly baked," the Original made an excuse as the poison irritated his supernatural olfactory senses.
"Couldn't you have inspected it earlier?" The witch whined and clutched her stomach. "I haven't had a morsel in two hours. I wish to gobble up everything in the vicinity." She raised her voice with each word, tears of irritation rolling down her chin.
He took a deep breath and sat down next to her. "You should know that you are not an abomination, Maeve," he uttered softly.
"You truly are hopeless," she gave him a beaming smile. "People fear things they're not used to. We are different and that mortifies them. Abomination is a name for special, Niklaus."
Klaus stared at her as she wiggled her uncovered toes, eyes trained on her face as the full moon behind them illuminated the room.
Was his Maeve truly seeing Elijah behind his back? He was sure his brother's lovelorn affections were not reciprocated. His dearest companion wouldn't dare betray him for his brother and neither would Elijah abandon him to seek out his own happiness.
"I am your dearest friend, am I not?" He asked abruptly as she turned her head to grant him with a look of confusion.
"Raffie is my dearest friend, Klaus," she rolled her eyes. "But well, he is my family. But after him, of course, there is you."
Satisfied with her answer, he returned her smile and placed a chaste kiss on her forehead as she grumbled in distaste at the sudden bout of affection.
"Are you dying?"
"Pardon me," he asked.
"Your behaviour is putting me on edge and how dare you side with that lizard!" Adelia said with annoyance.
"Lizard?" The Original chuckled. "You are growing up to sound much like your grandmother."
"And you are a rodent of magnanimous stature!"
"You must know, you are always around the abattoir," he sarcastically threw the statement as she stiffened a little.
"Your brother," she started as Klaus abruptly looked up at her, "he has a very elaborate collection of books."
The Original sighed in relief. "I suppose you don't share the same sentiments regarding my art."
"You are a good artist," she rolled her eyes fondly and got up to exit the room.
"But you will always favour the one who gave you the drunken horse," he chuckled and she swatted his arm in offense as they reached the banister.
"You will never let that go!"
"I promise to remind you every now and then," he smiled as she leaned her head on his shoulder, looking down the array of people downstairs.
"Fortunately for me, I am mortal," she smirked.
Klaus took a quick intake of breath and caressed her knuckles. Mortality was such a fragile thing. He could snap her head and she would breathe her last. But this girl right beside him did not deserve his cruelty; she had made a special place in his heart. His romantic inclinations towards her long gone, she was his favoured confidante. She might be Adelia for others, but she will always be his Maeve.
Klaus opened the door for her and Adelia breathed out in relief, hugging him tightly.
"Are you alright?" She asked him as the Original patted her hair with a smile. The witch grabbed his palm to see flakes of dried blood and gently caressed the healed skin. "I am sorry, I should've told you," she mumbled, trying to clean his palm with her sleeve.
She looked up at him to see a smile on his face as he placed a kiss on her forehead.
"I missed you," he relayed it to her and the witch smiled back.
"Adelia," Elijah appeared behind his brother as she walked up to her husband and molded herself into his chest.
"Your vague answers will get me killed one day," she glared up at him as he took her hand in his, intertwining their fingers.
"Mother, meet my wife Adelia," he suddenly said, turning them towards the living room as the heretic for the first time noticed an elder lady occupying one of the chairs. With a faint recognition of similar features from her husband's memories, she concluded her to be the matriarch of the Original family—Esther Mikaelson.
Adelia turned her head to reward Elijah with a stunned look. How was she here?
"The witches resurrected me, wanted to unite me with my children. I was certainly not expecting my noble son in a union with a Beauchêne witch," the matriarch answered for her and got up, gliding towards them as the younger witch remained at a loss for words. "I am Esther and I welcome you to the family." She smiled, standing directly in front of her.
"Mrs. Mikae-"
"Call me Esther, dear."
"Esther. I apologize for my rudeness. I was not made aware of your return."
"Such a lovely girl your bride is, Elijah and a beauty too. The warmth in her complements you well, son," Esther said, pushing the errant strands off Adelia's shoulder as she stiffened under her touch.
"Mother, you are unnerving Elijah's wife," Rebekah echoed, "let her be."
The matriarch pasted a sad smile on her face. "I only wish Niklaus got himself a dutiful wife as well who would keep him in line."
"Oh mother, Nik would gladly take a noose before taking a ring," Kol commented from behind.
"The rings! I always wanted to pass down my rings to my children. Show me child, how are yours?" Esther looked hopefully towards the pair.
Elijah extended his hand as she touched the sapphire jewel gently, her eyes twinkling. "They are astounding," she whispered and looked at her daughter-in-law who followed her husband's actions to show her rings.
The smile on the Original witch's face doubled as she slowly took the young witch's hand in hers and took a deep breath at the sudden rush of power.
Adelia's vision blacked around the edges and she closed her eyes as the lights started flickering in the house.
"Maeve!" Klaus called her over as he stood in the middle of the room with Sharel and another woman. The young witch smiled and walked towards them as Elijah watched her from the corner of the room.
Klaus frowned as he saw himself passing through his body before he noticed the surroundings in shock as Elijah looked at him as well, both stunned. They both turned towards their remaining siblings as they appeared intrigued as well, the chandelier in the middle illuminating the feast of the human faction.
They saw Adelia in a gown passing by with a smile on her face. The noble Original saw his mother beside Klaus from their vision. He tried to approach her, but his feet remained glued, eyes desperately trying to locate his wife.
"There she is. This is our dear friend Angelique Lorraine and here is my sweet granddaughter Adelia," Sharel introduced them and the smile dropped from the elder witch's visage.
"Angelique used to be an acquaintance of ours, but now she is gracing the Montgomery with her clairvoyance presence," Klaus smirked and looked at the witch to see her getting paler by the second.
"Impossible," Angelique murmured as she glanced at Klaus and then at Sharel who was getting worried. Elijah started approaching the group when he noticed the rising tension.
"Are you well, Ms. Lorraine?" Adelia asked.
"May I escort you somewhere secluded?" Elijah told her, coming to stand beside Adelia.
"What is the matter?" The Beauchêne witch handed her a glass of water from a passing server.
One of the many guests softly bumped into Adelia and Elijah placed his hand on her lower back to steady her as they stared at each other.
Suddenly Angelique grasped the siphon-witch's hand, dropping the glass of water on the floor garnering attention from the people as they watched her nose bleed while she stared directly at the young witch, horror in her eyes.
Adelia's eyes rolled back as she dropped to her knees, hand clutched between Esther's.
Elijah grasped Adelia's hips tightly awaiting the danger to show its face and the witch stilled unable to decipher anything.
"Born to fulfill fate and need
Half of it to live has to feed.
Their beginnings were death and tragic
In their vein runs blood and magic."
Elijah, Klaus, and Sharel looked on stunned at the mention of the same prophecy that was given to the elder Original by the Beauchêne witch herself years ago.
Rebekah's eyes widened as her eyes met Kol's and Finn remained standing beside them with an impassive expression on his face, his eyes solely on his mother, observing the events.
The entire hall stood silent as Angelique said the words in a monotone when the flowers caught fire erupting the people into chaos.
The lights around the Mikaelson manor flared simultaneously to bust as all the intruders got thrown into the wall roughly as Esther stood in the middle of the room, eyes closed.
"The more they love, the better they thrive
One dead, the other alive."
The flutes and glasses burst shocking them when Rafael came forward to disconnect his friend's hand from the seer. As soon as he touched Adelia, he fell down in pain holding his head when the siphon-witch's nose started bleeding.
Arnold ran and stilled to see the spectacle as he stared at his little girl. He went to intervene when Klaus gripped his hand as they both watched the event unfold.
"An event, a power bound to pass
A sacrifice crucial done by the mass
Impossible concocted to a patient brew
Promised balance, a starting anew."
Simultaneous blood dripped down Adelia's eyes as she clawed at the marble floor with her other hand. The Mikaelsons got up to get pinned to the floor as Elijah felt his ring heat up, the sapphire gem burning blue and willed away the pain.
Winds ravaged the manor as Angelique's eyes gave away blood in trails shortly followed by Adelia. Elijah pulled her back towards himself making the elder witch grasp her wrist even tighter making Adelia cough up blood. The flowers that were burning started giving flames even higher.
Sharel stared at her palms as dark veins crawled up her hands to disappear slowly. She looked around to see people staring at her granddaughter as concern and anger filled her veins. With a snap of her fingers, all candles extinguished themselves as the manor drowned in darkness but the voice continued ringing in their ears.
"Two strongest lines will merge together
To persuade even the unholiest believer.
A child that has yet to come
In vicinity everything shall burn."
A hand grabbed Esther's as the magic dwindled around her. She opened her eyes to see Rafael in front of her, unaffected by magic while the Mikaelsons struggled. He glared at her, moving to disentangle their hands as he caught Adelia in his arms, the carnage stopping midway.
The heretic fell unconscious as the Originals got up slowly, the water sprinklers downing them in water. The Desmond noticed the burn around her finger and removed her ring to pocket it immediately.
Elijah approached her hurriedly and patted her cheek to get no response. He looked at Rafael and bit into his wrist to put it in her mouth.
"Mother, what did you do?" Klaus came forward, out of breath.
"I do not know," she replied.
"What is this prophecy?" Finn asked as the Mikaelson siblings stiffened.
"Son, I do not feel well. The magic has taken a toll on me. I wish to retire," Esther told him.
"I will escort you, mother," the eldest said before disappearing upstairs with the matriarch.
Adelia roused and pushed Elijah's wrist away from her mouth, puking out blood all over the floor. Rafael rubbed her back as her husband offered her his handkerchief to wipe her mouth.
"Are you fine, Lia?" Kol asked her.
The witch nodded and leaned into Elijah who caressed her hair.
"I think we should leave," the noble Original hesitated and looked at his siblings, the flashes of the white coffin and his mother filling his mind.
"No, Lia will stay," Rafael said firmly, his gaze not straying from the door separating the Original witch as the ring weighed heavily in his pocket.