Let's head back to New Orleans before I share "The Pyramid Part 2." During season 3 of the show, there was a deleted scene between Marcel and Cami that I decided to include in my story. This scene gave me the chance to showcase a conversation between Cami and Elijah. The official writers didn't give enough space for the relationship between these two incredible characters to develop, which was a missed opportunity to explore their interactions and influence on each other.
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Camille O'Connell was engrossed in her reading when a sudden, loud doorbell broke her concentration. Transitioning into life as a vampire had been challenging for her, with her emotions in turmoil and her decisions often erratic. To cope, she tried to stick to her usual mortal habits, like delving into her medical journals.
She wasn't expecting any visitors, and to be honest, she didn't really want any.
"Are you not gonna answer your phone now?" she heard as she opened the door. Marcel Gerard walked in without waiting for an invitation.
"And yes, you can come in," Camille said, rolling her eyes as the man walked inside her living room. The blonde passed him, annoyed, and she halted by her bed. Some of her dark objects were still scattered on top of the bed. "Have you heard from Vincent?" Marcel asked without waiting for an answer, "We were working on a thing, and um, I got a few questions for the guy."
Camille was holding a dark object in her hand, trying to bring herself to toss it in the box.
"Sometimes he does magic upstairs at the Mommy Yokos hotel," she responded apathetically as her fingers unconsciously twirled around the dark blade.
Marcel quietly muttered the hotel's name as he headed towards the door. He could tell that the woman wasn't feeling sociable. His eyes then landed on a crossbow resting on the bookcase, and he couldn't resist teasing her. "Are you sure that this is how you should dealing with a breakup?" he said with a showy smile on his face, pointing at the weapon.
"So you heard..." Cami murmured, sighing slightly, before turning to look at the young vampire for the first time since opening the door for him.
"You break the heart of the world's baddest vampire, and word's gonna spread."
The blonde woman glanced Marcel straight in the eyes and, in a monotone voice, explained, "There's not enough room for three people in a relationship." As she utters the words, she feels a lump in her throat and swallows dry. "So as long as Aurora is alive, Klaus and I can't be together."
Marcel was unsure how to react to that comment. He paused for a moment, looking around the flat, and then he shifted the conversation entirely to something else. "You know, I couldn't help but notice a certain theme in here," he remarked, casually picking up the machete from above Camis's nightstand: "sharp, vicious, deadly. It's almost like you're planning to hunt someone down."
"I can't just spend the rest of my immortal life waiting for Aurora to break free and come after me." Camille took a deep breath before speaking, a hint of guilt washing over her as she voiced her next sentence. "So, I'm going to kill her."
Marcel completely lost it when he heard her declaration. "That's it!" he exclaimed, and he began to shove Cami's dark objects into the box just like Klaus did a while back.
"What the hell?" Camille raised her voice. "Marcel, what are you doing?"
"No one is killing Aurora," Marcel said, turning to Cami as if he were giving orders to one of his vampire lackeys.
Camille's fury was evident as she questioned, "Says who?" It was infuriating enough for her that Klaus didn't respect her autonomy to make choices, and now his adopted son was following suit.
Marcel kept tossing dark objects back into the box, angry. "Say's the guy who still gives a damn about Rebekah Mikaelson." He stands back for a moment, trying to calm himself. "Rebekah is still hexed and buried," he reasoned. "Freya can't find a cure; the people who did it. Aya and Tristan, gone. Which means that Aurora is our last shot at finding a cure. She is Rebekah's sire line if anyone knows how to fix her, it has to be her; given time, she'll' talk. Okay!"
Camille exclaims, feeling uneasy. Marcel lowers his voice and gazes into her eyes, clearly upset. The woman he had been friends with for the last few years would get it. She'd understand him. He thought as he attempted to clarify things to her. "I need this, okay? I need this time."
Camille let out a deep sigh, averting her gaze from his pleading eyes, but Marcel kept going.
"Which means you can't go and do something stupid, okay?" Marcel calmly repeated, "Cami, promise me, you won't do anything stupid."
"Fine," Camille agreed, looking back at the young man. "I promise," she said, already feeling regret as Marcel walked out of her apartment.
What if she breaks a promise to Marcel? Since the day she turned, she has done far worse things to people who were not just her friends but considered her family. People who she loved.
This whirlwind that has her spun out of control will end when Aurora is dead. She reasoned that then she would be able to regain some control over her life.
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Marcel couldn't shake off the talk with Cami as he made his way back to his loft. The memory of Old Cami, who would never even think about harming anyone, arose in his mind. She was always the one people turned to for advice, understanding, and logic. It was obvious that someone needed to intervene and assist the young vampire during her challenging transition.
And that someone definitely was not Marcel. He picked up his phone and called the only one who could stand up to this intelligent woman with respect and understanding and help her talk about what she was going through.
"Marcellus, whatever it is, I simply don't have time for it." Elijah Mikaelson's arrogant voice answered at the other end of the line.
"Hold on to your horses, Elijah. I am calling about Cami." Marcel said with a smirk, knowing that he had his attention.
"I'm listening," Elijah said in a flat voice.
"I was at her apartment earlier today. She is gathering weapons."
"We are on the bridge of war, Marcellus; if Camille is getting ready for it, I fail to see the problem," Elijah complained, but Marcel cut him off. "She is planning to kill Aurora. She is not coping, Elijah, and with Klaus gone, we should try to help her; we owe her that much."
"I see. I shall make haste to pay her a visit at the earliest convenience." Elijah casually declared and hung up the phone.
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It was late in the afternoon when Camille's doorbell rang again. She was about to put the kettle on the stove for some hot tea.
As she unlocked the door, a gasp escaped her lips when she saw Elijah Mikaelson elegantly poised on her doorstep, presenting a portable tray topped with two disposable but fancy cups procured from his cherished tea sanctuary.
She gazed at him with hopeful eyes. "Please tell me that it is tea," she requested.
"But of course, Camille. After all, it's that time of day, and as they say, 'Tea tempers the spirit'".
Elijah remarked with a witty tone. "Come in," Cami said with a smile, stepping aside to let him in.
As the original vampire was setting the tray on the kitchen counter, Camille recognized the hallmark on the napkins.
"Good god, Elijah, you were able to take an 'on-the-go' from Le Salon." Cami said with awe, "I suppose being a billionaire and an original vampire really does have its perks!" The blonde spoke with a teasing voice.
"Oh, please, spare me the nonsense." The man scoffed, casually picking up two china teacups from the kitchen and pouring the tea into them. "Money and compulsion are irrelevant here. The owner happens to be a man with fine taste, and he's also a longtime friend of mine. That, along with a simple 'please', was all that was required."
"Shall we?" Elijah elegantly motioned towards the sofa, invitingly extending his hand.
"Sure." The woman responded with a sincere smile.
Among the Mikaelson siblings, the patriarch of the family was the one Cami felt most comfortable dealing with. Unlike Klaus, with his constant tantrums, Elijah was noble and well-mannered, more reserved than the social and warm Rebekah; he exuded a sense of calm and restraint, in contrast to the detached and bossy Freya.
Even though Elijah seemed calm and carried himself with grace and nobility, Camille harbored no delusions about the original vampire. She knew that beneath the surface, Elijah was just as broken, just as dark, and just as deadly as Klaus. While reflecting on her interactions with the Mikaelson family, her mind drifted to a disturbing memory of piercing blue eyes. The mental picture of Klaus kept popping in her subconscious, like he owned the place.
Camille made a conscious effort to push the thought of Klaus out of her mind. Instead, she shifted her attention towards Elijah, who kindly offered her a cup of tea. Gracefully, she expressed her appreciation as she accepted the warm cup in her hands. Inhaling the delightful aroma, she couldn't help but admit, "It smells amazing. Definitely a step up from what I was about to prepare." With a pleased smile, she took a sip.
Elijah smiled back at her. He had tasted her attempts at tea, and it was a true masterclass in tastelessness. He smoothly brought the cup to his lips and took a sip, savoring the rich flavor. "I'm glad you like it," he replied.
"So Elijah, what brings you here?" Cami asked with a playful tone, "I highly doubt it's to rescue me from sipping one of those dreadful tea bags lurking in my cupboard."
"Verily, that dreadful thing ought to be banned," he declared with certainty, "yet you are correct, Camille. I am not here for the tea, but rather for the pleasant company you provide." With a thankful gaze, he acknowledged her. "The compound has been chaotic lately, and your apartment feels like a peaceful oasis right now."
"That bad, huh!" the woman said in relation.
"Given the constant conflict between Kol and Finn and Freya's relentless efforts to mend the rift and remind us of our familial bond... well, you can probably guess how successful that is."
Camille nodded sympathetically, acknowledging the family dynamics at play. "It sounds like a lot to handle," she remarked.
"And what about you?" Elijah inquired, his voice devoid of any emotion, "How are you handling it? Finn's return, I mean." Elijah was a smart man playing his cards close to his chest, but Cami was an intelligent woman; whatever game he was playing, she was happy to participate, as she found herself enjoying his company and realized that his presence was comforting.
"I'm managing," she replied, choosing her words carefully and taking a long sip from her cup. "What is Fiinn's plan now that he is back in his original body?"
"Believe it or not, he asked us to put him back into the body of another wizard." Elijah paused for a moment, studying Cami's reaction, before continuing, "He claims it's the only way for him to have a fresh start."
The woman rolled her eyes at that and reflected on how the originals always seemed to put themselves above anyone else. Her mind drifted back to that time when Esther and Finn tried to transfer Rebekah's spirit into her own body...
Sensing the shift in the blonde's mood, Elijah interjected, "Clearly, this is an endeavour we shall not undertake. Given the current circumstances, it is more practical to have an additional original in our arsenal," he nonchalantly expressed.
"What about Rebekah?" Camille asked. "Any progress on reversing that hex?"
Elijah's face frowned at the thought of his baby sister lying in a coffin. "Freya still hasn't been able to find a solution. The whole situation with vampires coming into town looking for the last piece of white oak to take down their sire doesn't help her concentrate on Rebekah."
His words hit the target. Two very specific emotions took over the blond vampire, finally pushing aside anger and fear. She felt guilty and worried.
"Elijah," she called, as she was reaching out to touch his hand. Physical contact wasn't a regular thing in their relationship, but she wanted to make him understand that whatever she was about to say, she meant it. "I never apologized to you for taking the wooden knight. The fact that the white oak ended up in the possession of those who wish ill upon your family is entirely my fault. Elijah, I am truly sorry."
The man touched her hand lightly, saying calmly, "In this family, Camille, we all had more than
our fair share of wrongs. You made one mistake and under very unique circumstances." His eyes looked reassuringly at her. "Besides, it's not like Niklaus didn't push your hand with his behavior."
Elijah's eyes weighed Cami's features. It was the first time either of them had said the hybrid's name out loud.
"How is he?" Camille asked, trying not to let any emotion show in her voice, but she knew Elijah could read her like an open book.
"He's trying to solve the riddle of the prophecy. He's sure it's still ongoing, and he's reached out for help from an old friend of his."
The young woman's eyes darkened with concern. "Do you share his worry too?" she inquired.
Elijah's countenance displayed a subtle softening as he articulated, "Given the current circumstances, it is only natural to ponder. However, the prophecy distinctly states, 'Three yet remain, two already crossed'. Despite Rebekah's predicament, all six Mikaelson siblings are very much alive."
"It just hit me—you are six siblings again!" She sounded surprised. After a moment of contemplation, Camille openly asked, "Aside from the tension at home, how does this make you feel?" She was genuinely concerned about Elijah's mental health. Elijah and Cami both knew at that moment that the human therapist was still very much alive and kicking inside the baby vamp.
The original vampire was, in a way, her patient, and Camille knew that addressing his emotions was a step in the right direction for his well-being, so she continued to probe gently. "Finn attempted to harm you, yet he is your brother, and there was a time when you cherished and looked after him."
Elijah was aware that, in order to create a sense of trust and vulnerability with Camille, he needed to reciprocate by sharing his own struggles and challenges. He realized that by being open and honest about his own feelings, he could encourage Camille to do the same.
"It's complicated." He finally replied with a hint of sadness in his eyes. "I love my family above all, but I can not ignore Finn's actions. But despite everything, I still feel a sense of loyalty towards him. It's difficult to reconcile those conflicting emotions." Elijah admitted.
"If we succeed in dispelling this prophecy, my siblings and I will be presented with a unique opportunity to reunite as a family once more. This is Freya's utmost longing: to regain the family she was once denied. Moreover, it is what my niece truly deserves. Considering this, I believe that with time and effort, we can overcome the obstacles that have divided us for so long," Elijah stated with determination. "Ultimately, our bond of 'always and forever' is stronger than any disagreements or betrayals we have inflicted. But then again, we are talking about a thousand years' grudges, and we Mikaelsons have never been known for our ability to easily forgive and forget." Elijah's face contorted into a frown while he let out a quiet sigh. He reached out his hand and gently placed his fingers on his left temple, attempting to alleviate a sudden bout of headache as he was feeling overwhelmed with the complexity of his convoluted family dynamics.
Cami replied, sensing the weight of the situation. "If I learn anything about you people, it is that 'the bonds of family far outweigh anything else'. Just remember that 'Rome was not built in a day'. Rebuilding trust takes time and effort, especially with such deep-rooted issues at play."
Elijah gave a small smile, acknowledging Cami's insight, and then swiftly shifted the focus onto the baby vampire. "I would assume that this is a difficult situation for you too, Camille. The return of Finn must have evoked intense emotions within you."
"One would assume that, but not really." Camille shook her head empathically. "Don't get me wrong. Of course, I still haven't forgiven Finn for what he and Esther tried to do to me, but right now, it's the least thing that worries and scares me," the woman confessed.
"And what worries and scares you?" Elijah inquired calmly.
"Aurora," Camille said without looking him in the eye. "I'm losing my mind, Elijah. I can't stop thinking that she'll come for me." Her voice was shaking. "I broke up with Klaus; I broke his heart, and it was pointless because I realized that his ex would always view me as competition for his affection, and she would stop only when I would die. I can't shake this feeling of impending doom," Camille continued, her eyes filled with fear. " And I cannot stop wondering what Klaus will do in that situation. Who will he choose to save? Her or me?" Camille's confession left Elijah speechless. "Camille, surely you cannot entertain the thought that..." The man began only to be cut off by Camille, stating: "She compelled me to slit my throat, and he allowed her to live, Elijah."
With a graceful movement, Elijah stood up from the sofa and made his way to the window, casting his eyes outside for a fleeting moment. After a moment of silence, he turned back to Cami and said, "I have been acquainted with my brother for the entirety of his existence, dear Camille, and I can confidently affirm that the predicament you have presented is non-existent."
Elijah's voice was calm but firm as he continued, "His loyalty to you is unwavering, and I have no doubt when I say that what my brother harbours for you is not merely infatuation but true love."
Cami's eyes widened in disbelief as she took in Elijah's words:
"I understand that you may be feeling a mixture of anger and fear at this moment and that you may be inclined to act in a manner that is uncharacteristic of yourself." Elijah cast her a knowing glance. "Niklaus, without a doubt, failed to maintain his composure during your transition. This only amplifies the severity of his shortcomings in regard to you, and he is fully aware of this fact. However, I assure you that sparing Aurora's life is a confirmation of your significance in his heart. My brother comprehends that if he were to take her life in an attempt to avenge you, a day will come when you will deeply regret it. He refuses to burden your conscience with the weight of her demise."
Camille found herself unable to hold back the tears that flowed down her face, prompting Elijah to draw nearer and gaze at her with a kinder and more sympathetic expression. His words rang true when he mentioned her as a part of the family, and he couldn't stand to witness her in such anguish. Elijah tenderly rested a reassuring hand on Camille's shoulder. "The most hilarious aspect of this whole dance between you and my brother is that everyone knows and sees how you feel about each other except the two of you. It's like a grand spectacle that everyone's enjoying while the main characters remain blissfully unaware." With a slight sigh, he locked eyes with her before shifting his focus to the cufflinks on his crisp white shirt. "Whatever you said to him the night, he left; he believed it, and it broke his heart. But even in that dark moment, he asked us to protect you, and he keeps asking about you every time he calls.
Mark my words: When he returns to New Orleans, you will be the first person he'll seek out. Despite our constant assurances of your safety, Niklaus would need to see you with his own eyes."
With a heavy heart, Camille stood up and fetched a tissue to wipe away her tears. She walked over to the bar, pouring herself a glass of whiskey to find solace. She looked at Elijah, silently offering him a drink. The vampire shook his head, declining the gesture.
He had something else on his mind that he needed to discuss with her. "I know you're adamant about not returning to the compound, and I completely understand and respect your decision," he said. "However, I made a promise to my brother that I would ensure your safety. The reality is that you're the most vulnerable member of our family, and that's why I propose transferring the ownership of your apartment to a mortal. This way, no vampire will be able to enter without an invitation."
The blond woman nodded in agreement, understanding the reasoning behind his proposal.
You have a specific human in mind, I assume," he inquired, not expecting an answer. "If so, my attorney will be in touch to provide further assistance."
"Thank you for looking out for me," she said softly, feeling grateful for his help.
The vampire strolled with elegance into the living room, taking his time to inspect the various dark objects and weapons scattered around. He paused momentarily, deep in thought, carefully considering his next words.
I am not my brother, Camille, and though I share his views on Aurora, I acknowledge your right to seek vengeance if you so desire. Therefore, if you remain resolute in your intention to eliminate her, very well, I shall furnish you with her location." He gazed at her with a perplexed expression in his eyes. "However, if your intentions have shifted," he attempted to convey in his usual nonchalant manner, "then I would suggest channeling your overwhelming emotions towards honing your skills. Perhaps somewhere far from the squalor that Marcellus refers to as a gym." He uttered the words as though they were distasteful to his tongue. "Should you wish, you could utilize my loft across the river, which is fully equipped, and I could make arrangements to dispatch a trusted instructor to aid you in your training."
The well-dressed original vampire stood close to the door. "Elijah, I am truly grateful," the woman confessed. "I was struggling, and our conversation truly made a difference."
"It seems I learned something from that dear friend of mine in that summer of 1897 in Austria." Elijah was teasing. "And like always, sharing a conversation with you also offered me a sense of relief, Camille," the man shared.