Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Ow.“

“Are you okay? I mean, what do I do?“ Josie asked, crouching on the ground.

“Help me pull it out!“

“What?“ She looked at the tool piercing the foot in front of her.

“I can heal myself. Pull it out!“

Josie inhaled reaching for the stick. Her hands shaking. Grasping it tight and with a forceful pull she ripped it out.

Falling on her ass, hearing the sharp intake and another ow. Josie stared in disbelief at the stick in her hands.

“You poked yourself.“ She heard the amusement in her own tone.

There was a pause before Josie broke into laughter joined by another.

“Shut up.“ The voice smooth like velvet with a playful tilt.

The sun was blinding her thus Josie could only make out a mane of red hair. A female figure and the hand offered to her was pale like white marble. With little thought she took it. Feeling the strength in the grip as the person lifted her to her feet. The warmth of the touch.

Josie’s eyes blinked open, focusing tiredly at the ceiling.

Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes and trying to ignore the weird feeling settling in her gut. Shooting a glance at the alarm clock and not surprised it was once more way too early. Sitting up silent, considerate of Lizzie who peacefully snored.

Josie wouldn’t be able to fall asleep again so she put on some clothes and sneaked out of her room. Putting her hair into a ponytail while she walked down the quiet hallways.

Outside the first few sunrays shone upon her face, making the chilly morning air bearable. Trudging along the path to the sea and hearing from afar the rhythmic thuds. Spying her father as she drew closer, punching a dummy on the little platform next to the water.

“Morning.“

“Morning sweetheart.“ Her father wiped sweat from his face with his arm. “Awake early again.“ He looked concerned.

“Felt a bit restless.“ Josie answered like all the times before.

Waving off his concern and stretching herself. Hoping sparring with her dad would silence the noise in her head. Make her forget about these bizzare dreams.

Her focus should lie with her studies, the new offensive magic classes.

Or on the rising tension between the three fractions. Even fights had broken out between witches and vampires. As the representive for the witches it was her duty to prevent anymore fights.

Instead, her brain focused on her dreams. Itching and buzzing yet the answer seemed out of reach, driving her insane.

Attempting to punch her father was a welcomed stress relief. Josie smiled at him as he threw her a bo staff.

“Ready?“ Her father faced her a little smile curling at the corner of his lips.

Josie copied his defensive stance, fading out everything else. Exhaling and blocking the first swing her father took at her.

Evading it and sending her own at his open side. Her eyes darting over him, observing every twitch in his body for his next move.

He went for her left side and her staff rose to meet his. Seeing the twitch in his arms, she ducked under his feigned attack and was out of reach, his blow meeting air.

“Good.“ They grinned at each other before he leaped at her, forcing her to step back.

Moaning she rubbed her hair dry stepping along the no longer quiet halls. Students awakening and preparing for the day.

She flinched as her ribs smarted at the move, her father getting a hard hit in, a moment of distraction costing her.

Josie didn’t feel too bad about the mistake, still proud of how she had outwitted her father. Winning for the first time.

It was worth the ache in her muscles. Especially the look he gave her when he realized he lost. Surprised at finding himself weaponless on his back.

Chuckling she shook her head, opening the door. Confused as she wasn’t greeting by her sister. Or their homely room, instead standing in a cold empty one.

The standard furniture dusty and everything cleared.

Josie blinked. She had walked these halls for years, she could find their room blind and yet she was once more here.

One day Josie had walked into this room. Vacant and yet she had settled down on the bed. Pulling out her homework and spreading it on the bed if she had done it a hundred times.

Working for hours, her restlessness receding to a dull thumping under her skin.

A weird feeling tugged at her heart as her eyes roamed over the empty shelf, empty desk and an empty bed.

Nothing had changed since the last time Josie had found herself here. The air still stale with a hint of something sweet lingering.

Josie wondered why she was coming here. Was her mind seeking a quiet place away from all her problems?

From Lizzie and the pressure on their bond, the whole merge unspoken but on both of their minds. To what happened with Penelope and the confessions she had made.

Josie rolled her eyes, slipping out of the room and sealing it shut with magic.

“Where were you?“ Lizzie was in her face as she stepped into their room.

“Showering?“ The duh behind it was silent but clearly communicated.

Lizzie’s narrowed her eyes, pursing her lips.

“Class starts in five minutes.“ Lizzie huffed, taking her stuff and slamming the door on her way out.

Josie ignored it, collecting her notes for class. Reaching for the necklace on her dresser and slipping it on.

Inhaling at the cold the pendant gave as it rested over her heart. Sending shivers down her spine.

Everything in order she headed after Lizzie, ready for another day.

“Josie help me.“ Josie could see nothing. Everything pitch-black.

“How?“

“Just repeat after me.“ Josie scrambled into the voices direction. Clasping the hand offered to her.

Power spreading inside her, buzzing in her veins. Magic lapping at her like a gentle wave. Encompassing her like a warm blanket.

“Josie?“ A tug at her hand and the world tilted.

Josie stumbled, faltering as her feet hit pavement.

Falling over and landing on her hands and knees hard, panting. Her knees throbbing. Blinking furiously, nausea rising in her throat.

“What the hell.“ Josie coughed, holding her stomach.

Dizzy as she straightened up, the darkness replaced by murky gray. Eyes roaming over her new surroundings.

Josie was in the middle of a town.

Yet it was silent, and no one seemed to live here, abandoned. Windows thrown in, shards and debris littering the floor. Dark, looking like a ghost town.

Her dreams were getting crazier.

Josie followed the road, taking in the shops. Confusion rising at the New Orleans Coffeeshop. Was this New Orleans?

Josie had been there once with her mother to help an acquaintance of hers. Only had it been livier and more colorful. This New Orleans was dull and gray and sent shivers down Josie’s spine.

Josie sighed, pinching herself and hoping to wake up. She had enough of this dream.

Growing irritated. Getting no sleep without these strange visions.

Kicking a stone lying around away. Flinching at the shattering sound. It hit a window, glass shards raining down, too loud in the stifling silence.

“Whatever you are I’m not really in the mood.“ A voice rung out.

Josie raised her hands, tensing and eyes darting around. Spell on her lips.

“I’m so sick of you creatures.“

Josie whirled around coming to face with a girl. Her heart speeding up at the glaring, electrifying blue eyes. The furrowed brows, the snarl on full pink lips.

The way she flipped her hair, red like smoldering flames over her shoulder.

It stupefied Josie, letting her hands sink. Surprised at the sudden appearance. The familiar hair, swearing it was the same color as in her visions.

“Josie?“ The voice soft, colored with disbelief.

The body language of the girl changed. Stance relaxing.

“You can’t be-“ The girl circled her and Josie’s gaze followed. “How are you here?“ The girl reached for her and Josie stumbled back.

“Who the hell are you?“ Josie blurted out.

The girl flinched as if struck, the light in her eyes dimming, making Josie want to apologize. To chase the expression of hurt away.

What the hell? Josie didn’t even know this girl.

“It’s really you.“ The girl breathed, childlike wonder contrasting with the pain in her voice.

Gaze flickering over Josie, taking her in.

“Josie.“ Her name fell from the stranger’s lips like a prayer.

Her mouth wrapping snug around the syllables and the fine hairs on Josie’s neck rose.

“Josie? Josie?“ Something tucked at her and Josie watched blue eyes widen.

“Wait, Josie-“ The girl lunged at her, fingertips brushing over Josie‘s hand. Sending a jolt thru her. “Please don’t-“

“Josie!“ Josie shot up in bed.

A hand on her shoulder keeping her down. “Josie.“

“Lizzie?“ Josie croaked her vision blurry and her whole form shaking.

“I’m here, you are alright.“ Lizzie leaned over her, blonde hair tickling Josie. “You were crying in your sleep.“

Soft fingers wiped her tears away and Josie leaned into the touch.

Her heart throbbing and mind confused. She felt so hurt, so relieved. Josie didn‘t understand what was going on.

“Scoot over.“ Lizzie commanded, slipping under the duvet beside Josie.

Wrapping an arm around Josie and pulling her close. Josie relaxed into the comforting gesture. Feeling the burning gaze from her twin.

“I’m fine.“ Josie assured her.

“Fine? Your heart is racing, you’re crying. I can feel your emotions which newsflash are all over the place.“ Lizzie shot back in disbelief.

Further proving her point when she rested her hand above Josie’s heart.

“I don’t remember, it must have been a nightmare.“ Josie averted her gaze, biting her tongue and hoping Lizzie wouldn’t notice the lie.

She didn’t seem to because she rested her head on Josie’s shoulder, pressing herself closer.

Josie exhaled, their hands interlocking and resting on her stomach.

The pendant pleasantly warm on her chest.

“Anything else we have to discuss?“

“Don’t think so.“

Josie sighed, rubbing her neck. Putting together the documents they had worked on for hours. Student complains or suggestions to improve the relations between the three species.

Things she would have to bring to her father’s attention. In most cases persuade him to change something. She stood with Kaleb following her.

“You okay girl?“

“I’m fine Kaleb.“ Josie emphasize it by squeezing his shoulder.

Working together on the honor council. Fighting side by side was a great bonding experience. She was glad to have Kaleb on her side. He turned out to be the perfect allie to stand up to her father and supported her in decisions.

She appreciated him especially with Jed once more alpha on the honor council. Making things harder while sharing none of the work. Always complaining how the school mistreated wolves.

Kaleb nodded after another searching glance, playfully bumping into her. “Then till tomorrow fellow council member.“

“Good Night Kaleb.“ She gave him a wave as they split, Josie heading for her room.

Avoiding the vacant room and slipping into theirs. Lizzie already asleep in her bed, blanket thrown off. Lizzie tossing and turning in her sleep.

Softly smiling she picked it up, placing it on Lizzie once more.

Tucking Lizzie in and afterwards put her notes down on the desk. Preparing herself for bed and sighing in relief as her back met the mattress, melting into it. Exhausted and nodding off within seconds.

Darkness, the beat of her heart hammering in her ears.

Her throat raw, her arms tingling, numb from attempting to claw her way out.

Unable to move, unable to scream, unable to see. No fighting, no struggling helped.

Earth clinging to her, assuring she couldn’t leave. Telling her she would die here.

She must have blacked out, the next thing she knew was the weight on her getting lighter.

Someone grasping her hand. Being pulled out of her grave.

“The talisman! It worked!“ Josie found it hard to concentrate.

Panting, her lungs burning as she could finally breathe.

“What’s it supposed to do?“ Josie sputtered, dirt clinging to her.

“Make quiet things heard.“ Josie looked up into soft blue eyes, a weak smile.

The same girl. Josie felt another tug, and the world spun around her.

Weightlessness before she hit the ground hard. The landing knocking the air out of her lungs and her vision swam.

Blinking, disorientated, still reeling from experiencing this moment again. Grayish sky above her, buildings coming into view. Sitting up to see New Orleans once more.

“Not again.“ Josie whispered shaking , her body numb.

Standing up and dusting off non-existent dirt. Sticking to her. She remembered having it under her fingernails. Scrubbing herself until her flesh was pink.

Lizzie covering her hand to stop her from drawing blood.

Yet here she was clean, not a speck of dirt.

“Josie?“ She closed her eyes hoping she would wake up. “Oh, my god.“

She had no time to react before the girl gathered her in a powerful hug. Strong arms wrapping around her midsection. Her ribs groaning under the pressure.

Her first reaction should have been to push the girl off. She would have but relieving her near death experience left her shaking and the hug was comforting. Not just for her but for the stranger too.

Josie could feel the girl trembling, borrowing herself in the curve of her neck. Wetness running down her skin.

The way she clung to Josie, nails digging into her back. Desperate.

Her hair tickling Josie’s nose and a hint of something familiar teased her nostrils. Something sweet-

“Who are you?“ Josie forced herself to push the stranger away, overwhelmed at the situation.

Watching the girl’s expression fall, tears shimmering in her eyes. Making them impossibly more blue.

Swallowing at how fragile the girl looked. Chin trembling, eyes puffy and red, curled into herself. Making her seem so much smaller.

"My name is Hope.“ Hope whispered, closing her eyes and raking with her fingers thru her disheveled hair.

Seeming to steel herself, shoulders tensing and the vulnerability leaving her gaze.

“How do you know my name?“ Josie noted Hope’s tattered clothing, the guarded look and how she seemed to be on alert.

Hope stayed silent and Josie scoffed, shaking her head. “Of course you know it, you are part of my imagination.“

“I‘m not part of your imagination, Josie. If anything, you are part of mine.“ Hope shot back, her eyes narrowing.

“My imagination is accusing me of being an imagination. Great, I am going crazy.“ Josie growled, throwing her hands in the air.

“Are you alright?“ Hope was beside her faster than she could blink, a line appearing between her brows as she reached for Josie.

“Keep your hands of me.“ Josie glared at Hope, who raised her hands placating.

“So we are at an impasse. I think you are an imagination and you think the same about me.“ Hope summarized, staring at Josie.

“How about I tell you something you couldn’t know and you tell me something I couldn’t know. So we can be sure our subconsciousness isn’t playing tricks on us.“

“You start.“ Josie accepted, but kept her distance.

Hope offered a few Latin words and only elaborated at Josie’s questioning gaze. “Astral Projection a spell invented by my grandmother. The first time I used it I was nine trying to see my father.“ Hope offered, a melancholic smile twitching at the corner of her lips.

“I was five the first time I used Incendia, which luckily failed.“ Josie blurted out mortified at this tip bid of information.

After all she had tried it on Lizzie.

Hope considered her, the corners of her mouth quirking up. “I can imagine that.“

Josie flushed, confused at how knowing Hope looked at her. “I never learned the spell for Astral Projection, so?“

They stared at each other, seizing each other up. A real person in her dream. Making Josie queasy. Her mind bringing up creatures and spells, latching on when the victim was asleep.

“I can’t believe it. You are really here.“ Hope’s shoulders slumped, a dazzling smile painted her lips, the corners of her eyes crinkling with it.

“Where are we?“ Josie deflected uncomfortable with Hope’s proximity.

“In a Prison World.“

Josie had her hands raised, a fireball forming in her palm as soon as the sentence left Hope’s lips.

“Okay, easy.“ Hope stepped back. “I’m not dangerous. Or at least not to you.“ Josie narrowed her eyes at Hope.

“I choose to be here or rather I was in a fight and ended up here.“ Hope offered, her hands shaking but her gaze sincere.

“I won’t help you out of here.“ Josie stated, extinguishing the fire. “I won’t be manipulated no matter what sob story you tell me or by how pretty you are.“

“You think I’m pretty?“ Hope gave her a lopsided grin, hands clasped behind her back.

Josie’s cheeks flushed. “What? That’s not-“ Josie sputtered, stopping at the delighted giggle it earned.

It turning into a full-blown laugh, Hope bending over holding her stomach, her eyes glittering like shooting stars.

“Yes, you are.“ Josie whispered transfixed meeting Hope’s intense gaze.

Observing the blush spreading over Hope’s cheeks. Pushing a strand of hair behind her ear and mouth opening for a response as Josie felt the world tilt.

“Not again-” Hope grasped her wrist. “Please don’t go.”

Josie’s heart ached, the desperate edge in Hope’s voice cutting.

Making her want to stay but she had no say, blinking her eyes open and seeing her own room. Feeling the dampness on her cheeks.

Josie sat up, pulling her knees into her chest and wrapping her arms around them.

What was happening to her?

After another morning meeting with her father, Josie went to the library instead of her classes. Burning curiosity and confusion leaving her restless.

She needed to know what happened last night. A spell? A curse? A new monster attacking?

Josie picked out every book having to do with dream magic and what she could find on prison worlds.

Over the latter she found only one book. Describing how prison worlds were alternate planes of existence. Time not passing and while you could die in those you would wake up again. Someone had created them for the greatest of evils when death wasn’t punishment enough.

New information for Josie was that the Gemini Coven had created the prison worlds.

And if the Gemini coven had made them, was that the reason Josie had been in her dream there? But why now?

Why her when Lizzie was also part of the Gemini Coven? Greatest of evils. Josie shivered. What could the fragile-looking girl, holding her so tightly have done?

There had been a spark, a certain darkness around Hope the first time they had met.

Josie searched for other reasons, dream magic the most possible answer. Most books she found were folktales and myths like Morpheus in Greek mythology or the night hag in folklore.

It took Josie the whole day to get through these books and find something that could help her.

A simple ritual which she performed on Lizzie’s and her room. First burning sage to smoke out all bad energy and evil spirits hanging around. Afterwards casting a protection spell over their room to keep outside influences out.

Hoping it would be the end to the weird visions and seeing Hope in her dreams.

“God this is becoming a pattern.” Josie grumbled at waking up once more on hard pavement, grasping the bridge of her nose.

No outside influence then. Josie sat up finding Hope waiting, with a shy smile on her lips.

“Would it be so awful to see me every night?“ Hope tilted her head, teasing even if a genuine question laced her voice.

Hope broke eye contact with Josie as she took a moment to respond.

Josie didn’t know why, after all Hope was a stranger yet she didn’t wish to hurt her. Noticing the hopeful spark in blue eyes and not wishing to smother it.

“Seeing you? No, but waking up in a bizzare prison world. Definitely.“ Josie stood noticing she was wearing her pajamas.

She flushed, heat spreading at seeing the unicorn pattern.

“Cute.“ Hope followed her gaze, mouth curving into a smile.

“Shut up, I was not aware I would have company in my dreams.“ Josie shoved Hope as she walked past her.

Hearing a stifled snort and a ‘hey’ for the shove. Hope retaliating by hip checking her as she caught up with her.

“Where are you going?“ Hope asked after a while of silent walking.

Eyes roaming over her surroundings vigilant.

“Exploring this place if I’m to spent the rest of my night’s here.“ Josie took a turn, fascinated at how detailed this version of New Orleans was.

The architect of this prison world must have seen it more than once. She told the same to Hope who came to stand. Not looking at Josie and fidgeting with her hands.

“That was me.“ She frowned, lips pursed and continuing at Josie’s questioning look.

“When I came here, there was nothing but darkness. Pure darkness. I sat here so long unable to see even my own hands. Day in day out alone with my thoughts.“ Hope stopped, her eyes closing.

“I am so sorry you had to go through that.“ Josie remembered the darkness, being buried alive, suffocating.

The silence pressing down on her just as heavy as the dirt. It was easy to ignore what Hope might have done, reaching for her hand.

Squeezing gently as it trembled in her grip and brushing with her thumb over Hope‘s knuckles.

Seeing Hope glance down, exhaling and squeezing back.

“One day it was too much, I couldn’t endure it anymore and got so, so furious and my magic reacted. When I woke up, it had drained my magic, and I was here in a replica of my childhood home.“

“It’s a beautiful town.“ Josie nudged the conversation into another direction.

Mind running wild. A prison created by its own prisoner? If only the Gemini Coven could create a prison world what was this?

“It really is. My father loved to paint it. The tourist, the magnificent architecture, the locals. It was the only place my family ever felt at home.“ Hope trailed with her fingers over one building, a small smile adorning her lips.

Josie’s heart clenched, the grief hanging around Hope bearing down at her, visible like a heavy cloak.

“I was only once.“ Josie pressed her side against Hope’s, feeling her higher body heat. “Maybe you could show me around?“ Josie glanced at Hope.

Seeing the thin smile turning into a beam and the excited glimmer in her eyes.

Josie grinned as Hope eagerly lead her by their still entwined hands.

Enjoying her wild gesticulating. The easy, carefree way she rambled on about the history of some buildings. Raved about the delicious foods of different vendors.

Could evil be hidden behind so a genuine, cheerful mask?

Josie didn’t know. The longer she stayed, listening to Hope, the less she believed it and in the end spending her nights here with Hope didn’t sound terrible anymore.

Finals were coming up and Josie was beyond stressed. Running from one problem to another.

Younger students who needed help to understand a certain problem? Somehow Josie ended up spending her afternoon explaining it to them.

Student complains and a fight Kaleb and her broke up before someone could notify a teacher? Josie and Kaleb sat for hours together with them trying to find a solution and a way to prevent another fight.

Her father frazzled and drowning in paperwork? Josie sat with him the whole night, sorting them in importance and finishing what she could.

Lizzie freaking out about their finals, thinking she would fail? Josie sat down with her holding her, waiting for her to calm down. Afterwards making tea and quizzing her till Lizzie felt prepared.

At last sneaking after curfew into the library to dig into her own subjects and learn for them. Her eyes dropping, head throbbing and drinking coffee like it was water to stay awake. Shaking and walking on unsteady legs out of the library. Greeted by the first sunrays peeking over the horizon on her way to her father.

Getting her ass handed.

Rinse and repeat.

“Josie?“ Josie blinked her eyes open, groaning as she saw auburn locks and blue eyes staring down at her.

“Five more minutes.“ Josie turned onto her side, not even caring about the hard ground.

“Now I know why I haven’t seen you the last few days.“ Hope mumbled but Josie heard her opening her eyes and peering up at her.

Noticing the rigid way Hope stood, arms wrapped around herself.

Hope was all alone here. Josie her only human contact and then she hadn’t shown up too occupied with school. Especially after Hope had told her how horrible the silence, the loneliness was.

“I’m sorry, I’m swamped with work.“ Josie ruefully stood, rubbing her eyes sluggishly.

“Why? Have there been attacks?“ Hope grasped her shoulders.

Gaze darting up and down on Josie, eyebrows furrowed together.

“No, no just finals started, and a lot is going on.“ Josie laid her hand on top of Hope’s giving her a reassuring smile.

“Oh. It’s May already?“ Hope whispered, a faraway look in her eyes.

“How long have you been here?“

“End of march I think? I’m not sure anymore.“ Hope shook her head, taking Josie’s hand.

“I have to show you something.“ Hope offered, leading Josie down the road.

Josie let her, wanting the grimace of pain to vanish from Hope’s face even though rationally she was aware of how dangerous Hope could be.

But spending time with her, getting to know her made it hard to imagine Hope being evil. Josie was not aiding her in trying to escape, only offering her company.

“And?“ Hope inquired, both arms stretched out and twirling around her axis.

Josie studied the large house, the brick walls, the inner courtyard. The giant M carved into stone above a dragon. Looking like a coat of arms.

“It’s the symbol of my family.“ Hope followed her gaze, then met Josie’s, pausing.

“The M stands for Mikaelson.“ Josie froze, remembering the chapter in her father’s book.

The Great Evil Niklaus Mikaelson.

Or her mothers lectures about how to act around bullies. Muttering and cursing Rebekah Mikaelson for what she did over twenty years ago. Telling them to rise above bullies like she did.

Hope Mikaelson.

This would be a reason for her imprisonment. If all the stories of carnage and blood spilled at the hands of the Mikaelson family were to be believed.

Yet Hope had answered her question. If she wanted to manipulate Josie telling her she was part of a notorious evil family would be foolish.

Josie couldn’t connect evil with the girl in front of her. Wringing her hands and nibbling on her bottom lip hard enough to draw blood.

“I’m sorry for your loss.“ Josie offered, watching the tension bleed from Hope’s form.

“Nobody ever said that after his death.“ Hope’s lower lip trembled and Josie approached her, pulling her into a side hug.

“He was a terrible person. The monster in many people’s life stories. For me he was for such a long time my white knight, protecting me, calling me a princess. Loving and quick to smile.“ Hope wiped away her tears.

“He showed me how to make paint out of plants and fruits. Told me bedtime stories about kings and princesses.“

“He sounds like a great father.“

“He was.“ Hope blinked her tears away. “I still miss him.“

“What’s with the rest of your family?“ Josie inquired softly, freezing as Hope rested her head on her shoulder.

“My mother died a few weeks before my father and my uncle choose to die with him. My aunt Freya has a wife and a little baby boy and my aunt Rebekah is with her fiance in Paris. My uncle Kol is living his best life with his wife on the coast.“

“You don’t see them often?“ Josie asked, not missing the sadness flickering over Hope’s face.

“No, they all have their own lives.“ Hope peered up at the sigil. “And I’m old enough to not spent my vacations with them.“ Hope added, jaw clenched.

“Doesn’t mean you don’t miss them.“ Hope winced not looking at her.

“My mother is often away on recruiting missions.“ Josie grimaced.

“Missing our birthday and last christmas. We still had Dad, but school kept him busy. So my sister and I spent christmas alone in our room.“ Josie gave Hope a smile and a soft nudge. “It’s alright wanting to see them more often.“

“Perhaps.“ Hope bit her lip. “Want to see my room?“

Josie nodded letting Hope give her a tour of the place, stopping as they reached Hope’s room on the second story.

It was vacant except for the furniture. A bed, a desk and an empty shelf.

Josie felt uneasy imagining Hope here.

Sleeping on the bed without a pillow or a duvet, with nothing to do but stare at the ceiling, left alone in utter silence.

“Home sweet home.“ Not even Hope’s light remark or her thin smile could brighten up her circumstances.

Even if Hope had done something, which for Josie was becoming harder to believe, no one deserved this.

When she saw the scratched in marks in the wall her insides knotted up.

Too many marks. Too many day’s spent here and Hope couldn’t even know how many it where in reality.

Watching in the corner of her eye how Hope climbed out of the window interupted her thoughts.

“What are you doing?“ Josie followed her, scared Hope would hurt herself.

“Showing you my favorite place.“ Hope grinned, disappearing from Josie’s view.

Josie stuck her head of the window. Frantically searching for Hope and was relieved when she didn’t see her squasched on the ground.

“You coming?“ Josie looked up into Hope’s upside-down face, eyes glittering with mischief, a grin tugging at the corner of her lips.

Josie swallowed looking down before glancing upwards into Hope’s expectant face, nodding. Climbing out, nails digging into the wall afraid to look down.

Shaking, searching for something to hold on to while she figured out how to reach the rooftop. She climbed upwards and took Hope’s offered hand with relief. Her muscles strained as she took it and she squeaked when Hope pulled her up to the rooftop in one move.

She exhaled shakily, body trembling.

“Well done, champ.“ Hope’s lips twitched amused, hands on her hips and Josie stuck her tongue out.

Hope laughed bumping their shoulders together and sat down at the edge of the rooftop. Legs dangling and patting the space beside her.

Josie did too, grasping the edge white knuckled, not keen on findingbout if she could die in here.

The compound seemed to be the highest building in here so they could see the whole town.

While the beauty of the place was undeniable, here overlooking everything it was somber, lonely. No people running around having the time of their lives. No families going on about their everyday life, no green, no trees, no flowers.

Hope was a stark contrast to it, vibrant full of life. Josie wondered how Hope would look, awash in sunlight. Would her freckles be more pronounced in the sun?

“This used to be my moms and my favorite place in the compound. Watching the sun go down and the stars come up. Talking about everything and nothing. Cuddled under a pile of blankets, pointing out constellations. She was the best storyteller. Mimicking voices, reenacting scenes. From stories about the stars to stories about our family.“ Hope leaned back, putting her hand close to Josie’s.

“Countless times I’ve fallen asleep up here only to wake up in her arms as she carried me to bed. Didn’t even stop when I was fifteen.“ Hope chuckled wetly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

“I even used to paint up here. The people strolling around. The sunrise, trying to capture how the town lit up with the first rays of sunshine. Tinting everything in this mix of yellow and orange.“ Hope looked lost in memories, voice filled with yearning.

Josie placed her hand on top of Hope’s. “Tell me more about your family.“ Josie encouraged, steady as Hope fixed her with a searching look.

Licking her lips and letting her gaze roam over the city. “My aunt Freya taught me a lot of magic.“ Hope inched nearer until she could rest her head on Josie’s shoulder.

Recounting her first magical misshape.

Josie made sure after that to sleep every night. Making sure she got at least a few hours in and Hope wouldn’t be alone.

Hope told her a lot about her family’s crazy deeds and Josie enjoyed how Hope’s whole face would light up.

Amused with how expressive Hope got, gesticulating and making faces. Eyes alight with love.

Still the thought of Hope alone while Josie was awake kept nagging at her.

The cold, empty room she lived in. If she could come to Hope somehow, didn’t that open the possibility for other things? Josie stayed in the library for hours, poring over books.

Trying to find a way to get objects into an alternate dimension.

If she at least could offer Hope some comfort, she would. No matter if she had to read every single book in this library.

She was overjoyed when she found something that might work.

Rummaging in her bookshelf for a book Hope would enjoy, she settled on the first Harry Potter, hoping it would offer Hope some solace.

Josie drew with chalk a pentagram on the floor. Afterwards nicking her thumb with a knife and drawing with her blood the rune described in the old tome onto the book.

Letting the knife fall, it clanking on the floor as her blood hissed where it came into contact with the book.

Not red but a muddy black.

Frozen, she observed more blood spill out of the wound, dripping down and staining her pants.

Josie blinked. Pinching the skin around the cut and observed more black blood pouring out.

Her blood was black.

Josie’s thoughts run, seeking for a logical explanation. Blood was definitely not meant to be black.

They had no encounters with monsters for weeks. She had never heard about a curse turning blood black. She couldn’t be poisoned, the effects would have already showed.

The only thing-

That had been months ago and even the shot wound had faded into a pink scar. Yet Malivore had been black. Muddy black. They had formed the bullet from the Malivore pit.

However, it made no sense why Malivore was still in her system and had not killed her yet. The guard had told them it would fester, infect and disintegrate them, from the inside out.

It had hurt, and she had felt it crawling inside her body, scratching away at her, sucking her dry.

She had been sure she would die in her sister’s arms. Breathing getting harder, herself getting colder until her father had turned up with the vial of blood.

The warm blood had ran down her throat and chased away the cold. Could have Malivore latched on to her?

For months pumping through her veins, yet not killing her? Not even harming her? Had the blood counteracted the effects of it?

Josie dried off the blood. Perhaps she should go to her father with this, testing her blood. Although if it had been inside of her for months and nothing had happened why should it now? Why worry her father over this?

It wasn’t life threatening, and he was under enough pressure. It was easier to concentrate on Hope.

So Josie tidied up the magical things, washed the blood from her hands. Greeted her sister like normal as she came back, and they prepared for bed together. And she nodded off with the book secure in her arms.

“Hey there sleeping beauty.“ Hope greeted her, waiting for her and for Josie it felt already normal to wake up to hard pavement digging into her back.

New was the weight in her arms and she grinned.

“I hope you are a Potterhead.“ Josie grinned and at Hope’s questionly arched eyebrow she held up the book. “You’re a witch, Hope.“ Josie said with a deep voice.

Hope’s eyes lit up and she pulled Josie to her feet with ease. “How?“

“Objects can transcend dimensions. You just need to find the right runes.“ Josie shrugged.

Observing how carefully Hope opened the book, disbelieving smile on her lips while her fingers stroked over the pages.

She peeked up at Josie with a look she couldn’t decipher and she had only a second before Hope leaped into her arms.

Josie stumbled back at the force. Keeping them upright and supporting Hope’s legs, which Hope wrapped around her waist.

Smiling softly as Hope burrowed herself into her neck.

“Thank you.“ Hope whispered and Josie shivered, feeling Hope’s lips brush over her skin.

“If you tell me what you need, I can bring it with me next time.“

Josie swallowed, Hope’s heat seeping into her bones. Laughing as Hope leaned back slightly, eyes wide and shining bright.

Josie groaned when she stood up from the pavement surprised at not seeing Hope immediately. Hope normally waited for her right at her ‘landing’ spot.

Josie headed for the Mikaelson Compound. Stopping to lean against the doorframe of Hope’s room, grinning at the sight.

Hope was wrapped up like a burrito in at least three blankets, encompassed in pillows. Only her face and the arm holding the book visible.

Eyes hushing over the pages while Hope nibbled on her lips, brows furrowed.

Josie silently observed her, the stress of the day bleeding away.

Suppressing a chuckle as Hope huffed, scrunching up her nose adorably and then turned the page.

“Space for two more?“ Hope looked up, blues widening at her sight.

“Josie!“ Hope hid the book from sight. “Two more?“ Josie drew closer, hands behind her back.

“Yeah there would be me and my dear long-time friend Mr. Snuggles, who would be honored to make your acquaintance.“ Josie announced, seeing Hope’s eyebrow lift.

“Mr. who now?“ Hope tilted her head, grumbling as a strand of hair fell into her face and tried to blow it away.

“Mr. Snuggles my most loyal companion.“ Josie brought Mr.Snuggles up to her face.

He was worn after all these years. He had been the first gift from her mother. Lizzie, who had the same one only had her teddy a purple neckerchief, and hers had a red one.

Hope glanced from him to Josie. “Mr. Snuggles?“ Brow lifting even higher if possible, a lopsided grin on her face.

“Don’t. My mother choose the name and it stuck.“ Josie fake glared at Hope before adding softly. “I thought he could keep you company when I’m not here too.“

Josie held her breath while Hope considered the bear and her.

Spending every night with Hope had made her learn quickly how she ticked. Appearing vulnerable was a big no go for Hope.

Josie seemed to be the exception for the rule. Even if Hope would still pout and grouch if she thought she was being coddled. Or close off.
In a way it was similar to Lizzie, who had teasing remarks ready to hide her own insecurity.

Hope would also try to joke and deflect. Yet after Hope had told her how she didn’t sleep, partly because she didn’t need to and partly because she was petrified to wake up and find herself once more in suffocating darkness.

First she had attempted to persuade Hope into sleeping when Josie was here to watch over her, which Hope refused. Making clear their time together was far too precious to be wasted on sleeping. Hope was stubborn.

So Josie took her chances offering an alternative. Keeping herself steady and ignoring the scepsis in Hope’s gaze, the refusal on pink lips.

“I’m Mr. Snuggles and I like warm hugs.“ Josie deepened her voice, while holding the bear in front of her, waving with its arms.

Hope snorted, trying to cover it up with a cough. “Did you just quote Frozen?“ She asked in disbelief, sitting up in her mountain of covers.

Josie sat down beside her, snuggling into Hope’s side as she opened her cocoon, wrapping Josie up in it too.

“Maybe.“ Josie wrapped an arm around Hope’s waist, pulling her closer and pleased as Hope curled into her.

Ignoring how hot she felt with the combined heat of Hope’s body temperature and the pile of blankets.

“But Mr. Snuggles is great at keeping the monsters and nightmares away. He has over eighteen years on job experience, a hardened veteran.“ Josie added holding him out to Hope.

“Dork.“ Hope rolled her eyes, taking him into her arms.

Snuggling deeper into the pillows and Josie. Leaning down and pressing her nose against him.

“He smells like you.“ Hope blushed under Josie’s questioning gaze.

“After so long it is to be expected.“ Josie teased, enjoying how red Hope got, making her hair concurrence.

Squeaking, surprised as Hope poked her in the ribs. “Smart-ass.“ Hope coughed into her fist and Josie’s huffed.

“What did you just call me?“

“Don’t know what you’re talking about?“ Hope raised an eyebrow in challenge as Josie’s eyes bored into her.

Waiting for Josie to turn away, coughing another ‚smart-ass‘. Josie faced her in a second, growling and with no warning pounced. Her fingers finding Hope’s side and mercilessly seeking her weak spots.

“You can only blame yourself for this.“ Josie laughed as Hope squealed, attempting to get away from her.

Although Hope tried Josie was quick to catch both her hands in one, pinning them above her head. The other dancing over Hope’s ribs like a piano. Earning breathless laughter and squeaks when Hope opened her mouth to say something.

Her hair fanned out on the white pillows like a fiery hallow, her head thrown back in laughter, baring her neck. Flush spreading from her cheeks over her neck and chest.

Hope easily used Josie’s distraction, flipping them. Getting them even more tangled up in the covers and securing her place on top of Josie.

Straddling her hips and pinning Josie. Leaving her no room to escape no matter how much Josie wiggled in her grasp, feeling Hope’s taut muscles.

“Are you scared?“ Hope leaned over her, breath fanning over Josie’s face and a few strands of auburn hair falling into her face, tickling her.

Cerulean blue eyes glimmering and Josie was sure Hope could feel her thundering heart. Swallowing heavily at Hope’s closeness. Inhaling Hope’s scent, muscles tensing.

“Should I be?“ Josie murmured eyes flickering from Hope’s face to her lips.

Unconsciously biting her own and stopped breathing as Hope observed the motion her gaze darkening. Hope melted against her, their noses brushing.

“Josie!“

Someone forcefully awakened Josie by pulling her covers away.

Getting a head rush as she shot up in her bed, squinting at the sun, which blinded her.

“What the hell, Lizzie?“ Josie snarled as her twin came into focus before a shirt was thrown into her face.

“Stop grumbling and get up!“ Lizzie threw over her shoulder, another piece of clothing hit Josie in the face, just as she pulled the shirt away.

“Throw another piece of clothing at me and I incendia your ass.“ Josie threatened, glaring at her sister.

“Seriously, the day we get our results you turn into a morning grouch? Get up, we can inject coffee directly into your veins while we walk.“ Lizzie shot back, brushing her hair.

Groaning Josie fell back, wanting to scream. Now, right this morning Lizzie had to turn into a morning person? A few seconds more and maybe-

God she had nearly kissed Hope. Or Hope her? Did she want to? Josie blushed at the thought, would Hope’s lips taste sweet? Be as soft as they looked?

Josie put her pillow on top of her face, trying to hide the blush she could feel burning in her cheeks.

Hope would wait for Josie in her dreams. How effortless it would be to go back to sleep.

It was hard to resist the temptation, but Josie stood up from bed, preparing for the day while her thoughts stayed with Hope.

“Lemme guess, top of your classes again?“ Kaleb sat down next to her while Josie sipped on her second cup of coffee.

Josie shot him a glare not in the mood.

“Of course she is.” MG vamp speeded over peeking at her grades.

“You go girl, best in your class.“ MG grinned and high-fived Kaleb.

“Congratulations.“

“Why are you two so happy about it?“ Lizzie narrowed her eyes, giving them a once-over.

“We made a bet with a few other vamps. Nobody knows our girl like we do.“ MG gave her a wink and Kaleb patted her shoulder.

Josie rolled her eyes. "Shouldn’t you focus on your own grades?“

“We passed.“ Kaleb stole a grape from her plate, throwing it in the air and catching it with his mouth, grinning and dramatically bowing as MG clapped.

Josie huffed, pushing her plate away and drinking the last of her coffee. “I’m going to the library.“ She announced standing up.

“Library? For what?“

“Some people enjoy something called reading.“ Josie snarked over her shoulder, shaking her head as Kaleb oohed at MG.

Exhaling as she left them heading for the heavenly silence of the library. Her thoughts too loud and her friends not helping prevent the headache she felt coming.

Josie picked a desk, eyes flickering over the rows of books waiting to be read.

Yet with her mind occupied she searched anything having to do with alternate dimensions.

“‘You are nearly there,’ said James. ‘Very close. We are ... so proud of you.’
‘Does it hurt?’ The childish question had fallen from Harry’s lips before he could stop it.
‘Dying? Not at all,’ said Sirius. ‘Quicker and easier than falling asleep.“

Josie read aloud feeling Hope back tense under her fingertips.

“Liar.“ Hope huffed and Josie peered down at her, Hope’s head resting on her chest.

“What do you mean?“ Josie resumed her ministrations, tracing over the curve of Hope’s spine.

“Saying dying doesn’t hurt, that dying is easy.“ Hope sat up. “Lying when he is seconds from sacrificing himself.“

Josie observed her, the sadness clouding Hope’s features. Josie bit her lip, before sitting up as well and cradling Hope’s cheek in her palm.

“My mom sacrificed herself, so my father and I could live. She burned alive.“ Hope looked away from her, face contorted. “And a few weeks afterwards my father cursed-“ Hope paused. “-and killed himself for me. It was neither easy nor quick.“ Hope added, curling into herself.

Josie remained silent, not knowing what to say.

Yes, she had lost her bio mom twice but for one she had been too young and the other had been a glimpse of what could have been.

It had hurt so much. The loss revibrating in her bones and the echo reaching her heart now and then. Still from what Hope had told her-

“My parents sacrificed themselves so I could do what I was created for. Dying so he wouldn’t have the choice to destroy the world. Nature creating a balance.“ Hope chuckled hollowly. “Nature’s loophole.“

"Your parents did it for you.“ Josie whispered, gulping as Hope’s focus rested on her.

"Dying is rarely peaceful at a high age.“ Josie pushed a wayward strand of hair behind Hope’s ear.

"So your parents deaths might not have been peaceful, but it must have comforted them to know that you would live.“ Josie trailed off.

“Because most parents have only one desire, to see their children grow. To find love, to find happiness, to experience everything the world has to offer.“ Josie stated firmly, holding Hope’s gaze. “So no matter what you might think, or whatever nature might have intended, your parents did it for you, because they love you and the only thing you’ve been created for is to live.“

Panicked as Hope burst into tears, whimpering between her sobs.

Josie was quick to hug her, pulling her closer, so she sat in Josie’s lap. Feeling her tremble and shake against her.

“Unconditional love.“ Hope whispered, resting her head on Josie’s shoulder. “He thought himself impossible to feel it until I showed him.“ Hope raked with her fingers through her hair. “He sacrificed himself for me and yet I couldn’t bring him peace.“ Hope pressed herself closer to Josie. “I hope he’s at peace now.“ Hope mumbled, stifled against Josie’s shoulder.

“I sacrificed myself.“ Hope offered. ”So the world, my family, my friends were safe and could live, just as he did for me. Fulfilling my destiny.“

Josie felt like there was so much she wasn’t getting.

“I don’t think your father sacrificed himself so you could do it too. I think his motivations were a lot more selfish.“

Hope’s eyes narrowed, pursing her lips.

“He wanted you to live. To be happy, to enjoy life. Do stupid things, make mistakes, have fun. I think he found peace the moment he died to give you the chance to.“ Josie glanced at Hope. “Didn’t think you would let anything dictate your life.“

“My mom said something similar.“ Hope whispered, a few more tears running down her cheek and Josie grasped her chin lightly.

Placing a soft kiss on both of her cheeks. Hope sinking into her, resting their foreheads together.

Josie didn’t know how long they sat in silence. Hope wrapped around her with Josie absently playing with her hair. Not asleep but eyes closed and resting against Josie.

Their silence disturbed by a loud crash. Followed by more, the ground shaking.

Hope quickly scrambled from Josie’s lap, dashing to the window. Turning around as Josie stood.

“Wake up now.“ Hope commanded, the room bathed in darkness.

“What’s going on?“ Josie stumbled as the ground shook once more. As the room lit up, Josie found herself safe in Hope’s arms.

“No time to explain, leave.” Hope gripped her shoulders, making sure Josie understood.

“We talk later.“ Hope stood on her tiptoes, placing a kiss on her cheek afterwards disappearing from the room.

Although Hope wanted her to leave Josie couldn’t, no didn’t want to. The fine hairs of her neck rising at the thought.

Why would Hope send her away? Instead of listening to her Josie followed Hope. Whatever was happening she needed to know.

A mighty roar rung out, sending shivers down her spine.

Josie froze as she took a step out of the compound. Blood turning to ice, heart stopping.

Her eyes not knowing were to focus first. On the long claws tearing thru the air.

Or the long sharp teeth bared as it roared or the long scorpion-like tail. Red fur standing out against he humanly features of its face and the surrounding mane.
A manticore.

Josie ceased to breathe. Eyes wide as she watched Hope jump on its back. Tearing with her own claws into it, golden eyes blazing.

Hope had magic. Hope had glowing golden eyes.

Hope, who had cried moments before in her arms, who always touched her so carefully was ripping into the manticore.

Rage glowing in her eyes. Blood splashing with every hit, beginning to cover Hope. Smearing her face like war paint.

There was the darkness Josie had gotten glimpses of. It should have terrified her or at least taking her aback. Yet there was something undeniable magnificent in Hope’s deadly moves.

Still she reacted fast enough as it poised the scorpion tail to strike. Cursing and sending a fire ball right in its face.

Relieved as Hope leaped from it, evading the attack. Relief short-lived as it focused on her, snarling as it came for her.

Josie took off, and it gave chase. Not the wisest decision Josie realized as it was snapping at her heels, a lion so much faster than a human.

So Josie took as many turns as possible. Listening to the clicking of claws against the pavement. The dull thuds as it crashed against something and it’s frustrated screach. Legs burning, every step sending jolts thru her while her heart raced and lungs felt like they were on fire.

Focused on the creature she noticed too late that she was stuck in a dead end. Bending over coughing from running. Her eyes darting frantically around for an escape.

The creature growling, a weird human looking smirk crossing its face. Seeing her predicament.

Josie raised her arms, prepared to defend herself.

The manticore pounced at the same time a tiny figure collided with it, making it topple over in the air directly into a building. Crashing it.

Hope snarling, hitting, clawing it. Furiously howling as blood dripped from her face.

Why was she not using magic-

Draining all my magic.

Hope didn’t have her magic.

Josie watched with horror as a paw swipe batted Hope away like a fly.

Josie ran toward it sending another fireball to keep its focus on her. Giving Hope a chance to recover. Thousand thoughts running around in her mind as it clawed, snapped at her.

Putting a magical barrier around herself. Straining under its blows.

Josie would not let this creature hurt Hope. Desperately she tried to remember what she knew about manticores.

Persian legend. Tail poisonous with shoot able stings. Unpenetrable skin.

Josie fell to her knees as the barrier broke, avoiding its claws just in time. Stumbling back to her feet. Giving it another taste of her fire.

Observing with horror as it opened its maw trying to chomp down at her. The pink tongue and the rows of sharp teeth.

Concentrating. Sending a beam of fire right into its eye. Her ears ringing with the answering shriek. Evading its next attack.

Hope appeared next to her, once more jumping on it and tearing into it. Its maw opening wide to bite at Hope. Exposing its fleshly pink throat.

Inside.

“Hope!“ Josie hollered avoiding another attack. “Get it to open its maw.“

Hope whirled to face her, auburn hair disheveled and clothes torn. Focusing on its head and clawing into its ear.

Disregarding the tail.

Josie reacted quickly enough. “Fluctus Impulsa.“ The tail cracked, falling limp, and the manticore screeched, rearing its head.

Swiping at Hope to get her off. Looking upwards, opening its maw and Josie struck.

Throwing a spear of ice. Hitting it and it gargled, blood splashing and running out of its maw. Crumbling into a heap, turning into dust. Leaving Hope barely standing, clothes tattered and blood clinging to her forehead.

“Are you alright?“ Hope raced to her, grasping Josie’s cheeks and tilting her head side to side. Leaving bloody prints on her.

“What were you thinking? You could have died!“ Hope fumed and Josie watched blood drip from her eyebrow down her cheek and chin.

“That I needed to help you!“ Josie shouted back, heart still racing and her body shaking.

“What was that?“

“A manticore.“

“I know what it was but how did it get here.“ Josie griped her hair, glancing at Hope, who backed away, looking skyward.

“Sometimes monster appear here. I fight them they disappear.“ Hope explained, acting nonchalant and Josie remembered their first encounter.

“That’s why you called me a creature.“ Hope’s grimace confirmed it. “They can hurt you.“

“Not permanently. Benefits of accelerated healing.“ Hope shrugged, wincing and pain flickered over her face.

“What happens if you die in here?“

“I don’t know haven’t tried it yet.“ Hope tilted her head, chuckling.

Josie grasped the bridge of her nose in disbelief.

Monsters. Imprisoned with Hope. Unknown how many. Hope could die. Hope could die in here.

Josie inhaled and exhaled deeply, reaching for Hope and pulling her into a hug.

Soothed as Hope easily went, fitting perfectly into her arms. Holding her tight and her cold nose nuzzling into Josie’s neck.

She wouldn’t sit by idly while Hope was in danger.

She needed to get Hope out of here. Josie didn’t care anymore.

No matter what Hope might have done, no matter if Hope was manipulating her. No matter what or who Hope was. Not that Josie believed for a second Hope was evil.

Fierce and powerful, more than a witch, a girl who liked to paint.

Josie would get her out of here.

Josie huffed throwing the book into the corner of the room. It only telling her what she already knew.

Prison worlds. Alternate planes of existence. Created by the Gemini Coven and sealed only accessible with ascendants. Meaning Josie would have to find the ascendant for Hope’s prison world, freeing her.

Yet there were only records about two prison worlds. One freezed in 1903, who had if Stefan Salvatore’s diary was to be believed held his ripper mother and a coven of heretics.

The other record about one in 1994 which had trapped her insane uncle Malachai for many years. The uncle who killed her mother and tried killing Lizzie and her more than once.

Leaving her with no other record. No hint of another prison world, which left Josie stuck.

Because one book stated that they bound these worlds to the leaders of the Gemini coven, meaning these prison worlds ceased to exist with her uncle.

So where was Hope if not in a prison world? She was stuck somewhere.

Josie made notes of what she knew.

The world had been total darkness. Hope used her magic up and now lived in a replica of New Orleans.

Her magic hadn’t come back. Hope was a tribrid. Part witch, part werewolf, part vampire with the vampire side unactivated.

Hope had confessed it after Josie had inquired about her being a werewolf but having magic.

Hope was stuck with monsters. Time was not passing. Hope needed no food, nor water nor sleep.

Something nagged at Josie. She had pieces of a puzzle and couldn’t see the whole picture.

Hope was a Mikaelson. Hope was trapped with monsters somewhere. Monsters nobody knew existed. Hope had been gone for months.

Why was her family not searching for her? Or the friends she sacrificed herself for? Where were they? Had they forgotten her after years of friendship? Leaving her for dead?
And family? How could family who had promised Always and Forever just leave her? Forgetting their promise. Forgetting her-

Forget.

Hope was forgotten. Forgotten like the manticore. Forgotten like the dragon her father fought. Forgotten like the monster that had terrorized the school for months.

Until it stopped. Malivore gone. Malivore who had been created by a witch, a werewolf, a vampire.

Nature’s loophole. No.

Josie scrambled to her feet. Racing thru the corridors, ignoring the disgruntled students who got out of her way. Grumbling and staring at her weirdly. Crashing into her father’s office.

“How did we defeat Malivore?“ Josie asked her father. Surprised he looked up and Emma sitting next to him turned to face her.

“Josie? What is-“

“How did we defeat Malivore?“ Josie interrupted him, fearing she knew the answer.

He opened and closed his mouth a few times.

“We don’t know. Landon woke up beside the pit and it was gone.“ He rubbed his neck. “Why are you-?“

“How did you know to pick up Landon?“

“I found a note I had written telling me to pick him up.“ Alaric observed her, seeing her trembling hands. “Sweetheart? Everything alright?“

Josie absently nodded, whirling around and heading for her room.

Numb. Her visions. Malivore destroyed. Hope in another dimension. Not a prison world.

Hope was in Malivore.

Josie had known her. Hope had sacrificed herself for them and everyone had forgotten her.

The visions, the vacant room Josie was drawn to. Memories. Her black blood, caused by Malivore. Her dream visits.

Josie stopped, bending over feeling sick and supporting herself on the wall. Closing her eyes and trying to sort out her thoughts.

God somewhere there needed to be proof of Hope’s existence. A way to ensure Josie wasn’t going mad.

Josie shakingly straightened herself up, making her way to her room. There would be no books about Hope. Her student records surely gone like everything in her room. There was nothing that would have recorded everything-

Penelope’s book. Josie searched her desk for it. Searching the chapters. Heart stopping at the one titled Hope.

Alaric still tries to get me to open up, training with me. He is getting old, slower, I fear someday I might hurt him.

She closed the book. Not wanting to read Hope’s thoughts. Hope’s thoughts.

She had been right. Hope was a person, a student. Her visions were memories. The weird feeling she had gotten from the beginning around Hope. The familiarity.

The things Hope seemed to know without Josie having told her. Because Hope knew her. From the second she had seen Josie.

How could Josie have forgotten her?

“You have been staring at me all night.“ Hope glanced at her briefly before looking back up to the sky.

Josie swallowed, still debating telling Hope everything she now knew. Still in disbelief she had forgotten her. Everyone. Leaving her alone in the darkness.

“Just appreciating the view.“ Josie offered seeing Hope roll her eyes, a pink blush dusting her cheeks.

“Did something happen?“ Hope inquired, worriedly looking at Josie, blue eyes soft.

Making Josie wonder what they had been to each other. Before Josie had forgotten. Could they have been?

No, Josie wouldn’t have forgotten that. Yet-

Josie found herself again and again back at Hope’s side.

Her thoughts, her mind, her heart occupied by Hope. Like the ocean in the night drawn closer and closer to the moon, longing to be even closer. And when the moon left restless.

Josie was happier asleep with Hope here than awake in the real word. Waiting for the night, to see her again.

"Dance with me?“ Josie blurted out, gulping under Hope’s heavy gaze.

“Now? We don’t have any music.“ Hope’s eyebrow arched upwards and Josie blushed.

“Doesn’t mean we can’t dance.“ Josie exhaled, standing up and with a bow offered Hope her hand.

“May I have this dance?“ Hope took it and Josie helped her to her feet.

“You may, even if we might fall from this roof.“ Josie chuckled, gently pulling Hope in.

Resting her hand on her hip and feeling Hope’s resting on her shoulder. Leading Hope into a slow sway.

“Do you even know how to dance?“ Hope teased, peering up at her.

“Of course I do.“ Josie huffed. “My mother made sure of that. ‚Every girl needs to know how to dance like a princess‘.“ Josie mimicked her mother, grinning as it earned her a chuckle. “I just don’t want us to get too adventures this close to the edge.“

“May be safer that way.“ Hope grinned, squeezing her shoulder.

Josie knew this was awkward without music, swaying aimlessly. So Josie inhaled, beginning to hum the song her mother had played a hundred times while teaching them how to dance.

Reddening under Hope’s stare and prepared to stop but Hope eased into her, placing her head against her shoulder and falling into the tune.

Humming so Josie could feel the vibration against her skin. Goosebumps forming as Hope’s breath ghosted over her exposed neck.

Her warmth seeping deep into Josie’s bones and Josie gently placed a kiss on the crown of Hope’s head. Feeling her grip tightening.

She would free Hope, no matter the cost.

Josie could have cried. Frustrated she huffed sitting back in the bed. She had made Hope’s old room her base of operations.

Everything on Malivore which was next to nothing but her father’s notes, on alternate dimensions and transcending them was in this room.

Papers littering the floor where she had made notes and connections. Attempting to tweak the spell for objects. So living beings could transcend dimensions. Failing.

Options to break Malivore open, which would if it even was possible release all creatures held inside to the world.

No being made of flesh could just travel thru dimensions.

Ghosts yes, spirits yes so they could either find peace or not. Ghosts-

A dead witch still possessed her magic. Witches have the power to transport spirits into other living beings. The veil had been gone for ages but other dimensions still existed.

Stefan Salvatore wrote how he lingered in the world after he died.

Hope and her where somehow connected, maybe with Malivore in her blood. Meaning chances were high if she died her soul would find Hope. With enough power and with her body preserved Josie could resurrect herself.

When her soul would return to her body and she somehow could anchor herself and Hope to the world of the living, Josie could bring Hope with her. In theory, many ifs and good luck. It would cost a great amount of magical power.

Josie shivered at the thought. Out of sacrifices a great deal of magic could be collected.

She had promised to bring Hope home no matter the cost.

Josie’s eyes darted over her notes, thinking of another way. Killing living beings? Mystic Falls was marked with a great deal of power because there had been massacres.
The twelve humans, twelve hybrids, twelve witches.

A normal witch might not been able to draw from that so many years after but magic lingered and Josie was a siphoner. Feeling even the slightest hints of magic.

Josie would have to siphon the power , become a ghost, bind Hope and herself together, go back to her body.

Josie just needed to find something strong enough to anchor herself.

Josie had to wait for the next full moon to harvest its power. It was hard to keep her knowledge from Hope and her disappearances from Lizzie.

Especially because of their twin connection. Lizzie hovering more and Josie had to make the wildest excuses to give her the slip.

Josie knew she had to do this alone. They would see her as crazy if she told them about Hope without more evidence than Penelope’s book. Her plan even crazier.

Josie sneaked out of school in the nights, going to the Expression Triangle and test what she could absorb without the full moon and how it affected her.

Her whole body shuddering as she could feel it. Pitch-black magic, strong and potent, clueing itself to her like tar.

Josie rubbed herself raw in the shower after every visit. The disgusting feeling clinging to her. She had performed dark magic before but never had every atom of her being struggled against it.

Josie sneaked back into the room, glancing at her peacefully sleeping sister. Instead of going to her own bed, she slipped in to Lizzie. Smiling as Lizzie even asleep made space and when Josie settled, curled around her. The restlessness fading as she was out like a light.

When Josie woke up the sun was flashing thru the window and Josie’s head throbbed.

More disturbing was that she hadn’t seen Hope while she was out. She hoped it was just a negative side effect from yesterday and not permanent.

Anxiety spiked at the thought. Josie tensed but the hand carding thru her hair soothed the sudden spike of fear in her heart.

“Morning.“ Lizzie murmured, sitting against the headboard while Josie was partly in her lap, head resting on her tigh.

“Morning.“ Josie curled herself closer, sinking into the comfort her twin offered.

“You weren’t there last night when I woke up.“ Josie looked up into Lizzie’s searching gaze.

"I showered last night so maybe you just missed me.“ Josie averted her gaze.

“You do know that I can literally feel your emotions, Josie.“ Lizzie reminded, her eyebrow raised. Josie gulped, sitting up beside her.

Not knowing what to say.

“You’ve been behaving weird lately. Always with your mind elsewhere, not wanting to wake up, keeping secrets. I’m your sister, your twin.“ Lizzie grasped her hand and pulled it into her lap.

“I mean I can feel your emotions from miles away so what is it, what you can’t tell me?“ Lizzie jaw tightened. “Is it about the merge? Is that why you’re so distanced?“

"What? Lizzie no.“ Josie took Lizzie’s other hand, sitting closer to her sister. “I know I’ve been absent lately, I’m just working on something. I can’t tell you about it just yet.“ Josie exhaled. “You are my sister, my twin, nothing will ever get between us.“ Josie added, reassuringly.

Seeing Lizzie’s shoulders fall and a wave of relief encompass her. Getting a rare beam out of her twin. “Love you.“

“Love you more.“ Josie grinned, poking her twin.

Darting out of the bed before Lizzie could retaliate. A pillow missing her by inches. Josie laughed as Lizzie gave chase.

Twin connection. Lizzie had just given her the last puzzle piece.

“Honey I’m home.“ Josie called out, both hands full when she stepped into the compound.

“Is this the part where I swoon and sigh.“ Hope appeared, leaning on the railing. “And welcome my darling wife home after I spent every moment since our parting in excruciating longing.“ Hope placed a hand against her forehead and swooned.

“I don’t know my dear, would it be the truth? Did you miss me?“ Josie grinned, climbing the stairs.

“So much my heart stopped beating and only begun anew at your sight.“ Hope teased as her eyes focused on the items Josie was holding. “What did you bring?“

“It’s a guitar case so it might hold a guitar, dearest.“ Hope rolled her eyes.

“I would have never guessed that, my love.“ Hope drew nearer attempting to steal a glance at the bag Josie held.

”Not yet.“ Josie held it out of reach, looking away as Hope pushed her bottom lip out, blue eyes wide.

“Even if I say pretty please?“ Hope tilted her head to the side, batting her eyelashes.

Getting closer to Josie until she could play with the collar of Josie’s shirt. Fingertips trailing over the exposed skin.

Josie leaned down while keeping eye contact with Hope. The touch burning, scorching thru her veins.

"Not even then.“ Josie whispered, bypassing her and leaving Hope speechless behind.

Chuckling at Hope’s expression and setting down her stuff in Hope’s room. Hope trailed in behind her.

A petulant scowl etched into her features, arms crossed as she let herself fall into bed.

“Don’t be like that.” Josie cooed stepping closer while Hope glanced at her pout still in place.

Seeing Hope huff and turn away, head held high.

“Honey?“ Josie sat down beside her. “Princess?“ Josie came nearer, resting her head on Hope’s shoulder and peered up at her.

“Will my beloved not spare me a single glance?“ Josie saw the corner of Hope’s lips twitch and being so close to her Josie could count every freckle on her nose.

“I don’t know, will you tell me what’s in the bag?“

“It’s a surprise for another day. Promise me not to look at it until I tell you to?“ Hope looked down at her, nose adorably scrunched up.

“You expect me to idle sit here without supervision but with the bag and don’t want me to look at it.“ Hope summarized raising a brow. "You are the worst.“

“You wound me dearest.“ Josie gasped, placing a hand on her chest. “After everything we’ve been through and the flame of our love extinguishes so simply? How will I survive the coldness of the world without the warmth of your love?“

Hope laughed, shaking her head. Her twinkling ocean blue eyes capturing Josie once more in their magnetic field.

“Brat.“ Hope nudged her leaning back. “You are here later than usual.” Hope murmured softly the statement more a question.

Josie swallowed, having spent all day running around making her plan reality.

“Got a bit caught up, I hope Mr. Snuggles was a sufficient company in my place.”

Hope grinned, the corner’s of her eyes crinkling with it. “Mr. Snuggles was the best company.“ She reached behind herself for the bear and cuddled into him.

Josie’s heart stumbled, totally enamored with the girl in front of her. Looking so young, so innocent, snuggling with the stuffed animal. Hope really was a marvelous mess of contradictions and Josie considered if this wasn’t the first time she had found herself enchanted by this soft smile.

“So are you planning on serenading me tonight?“

“Would you like that?“ Josie played coy, standing up and unpacked the guitar.

Josie preferred to play the ukelele because for one it was easier and two it was smaller than a guitar.

“Meet me on the roof?” Josie asked, climbing out of the window at Hope’s nod.

Josie strummed a few chords under Hope’s watchful gaze.

Hope sat cross-legged in front of her, head held in her palm. Swallowing, her fingers trembling and her heart racing. Aware Hope could hear it.

“Ready to be serenaded?” Josie glanced at Hope, acting non-chalant, as if she wasn’t seconds away from throwing up or faint.

Hope smirked, jesting. “Be still my heart.“ Squeezing Josie’s leg gently.

Josie inhaled deeply, her mouth dry and strumming the chords. Licking her lips and beginning to sing.

Would you dance if I asked you to dance?

Josie’s voice shook, and she paused, steeling herself. If she was going to to this then right. With everything she got.

Or would you run and never look back?
Would you cry if you saw me crying?
And would you save my soul tonight?

Josie concentrated on her fingers. The guitar in her grip unfamiliar after only playing the ukelele for so long.
Scared to meet Hope’s gaze. Josie had heard the song, and it hadn’t left her mind. Making her think of Hope.

Would you tremble if I touched your lips?
Or would you laugh?
Oh, please tell me this
Now would you die for the one you love?
Oh hold me in your arms tonight

Josie’s eyes hesitantly flickered up to Hope’s, voice steadier. Heat creeping up her neck to her cheeks as Hope traced her features.

I can be your hero baby
I can kiss away the pain
I will stand by you forever
You can take my breath away

Blue burned into brown as Josie sung the rest, every note dedicated to Hope. Hope who saved everyone but herself. Who chose to be forgotten instead of letting Malivore break free.

So much pain weighing her down and Hope still was gentle and kind, selfless.

Josie just wanted to help her lift the burden. To stand by her side and have her back.

Josie only broke eye contact to play the last chord. Exhaling and shakily pulling the guitar to herself.

Although Josie could have laughed it off, could have gone back to their earlier teasing, she didn’t want to. Didn’t want to hide what Hope meant to her, didn’t want to diminish the meaning of this. With what might happen she wanted Hope to know this.

Whatever Hope had to say, she could-

Josie flinched as Hope reached for the guitar, putting it carefully to the side.

Her eyes watery, tears running over her cheek.

“Did you mean it?“ Her voice was barely louder as a whisper, nibbling on her bottom lip.

Josie nodded and Hope looked skyward, conflicted before moving closer.

Josie not breathing as Hope placed herself in her lap, curling her arms around Josie's neck. Fingers carding thru the fine hairs on her nape.

Josie’s mouth went dry, her heart fluttering, feeling dizzy at their proximity.

Hope’s eyes dark like the evening sky bleeding into the night. Glittering like the first stars breaking thru the cover of night. Cupping Josie’s neck, thumb resting over her pulse point. If Josie’s heart was racing before now it was pounding like crazy.

Screeching to a halt at the same time Hope’s gaze flickered to her lips. Their breathes intermingling and Hope tilted her head, rubbing their noses gently together.

Her hands ached with the urge to touch, her body thrumming with the need to lean forward.

Their lips lightly brushed against each other, once, twice.

Hope’s lips soft and warm and falling open as Josie brushed over them with her tongue.

Savoring how Hope arched into her, the following breathy sigh. Surging forward and kissing her deeply.

Josie’s hand disappearing in her red mane, pulling Hope impossibly closer. Whining as Hope sucked on her lip, nipping it before breaking the kiss.

Panting, Hope’s eyes closed and Josie couldn’t resist, cupping her jaw, tracing with the pad of her thumb over Hope’s lip. Her whole body buzzing under Hope’s heated gaze.
Meeting her in the middle for more.

“I covered for you.“ Kaleb appeared next to her while she was mixing ingredients together, afterwards grinding some berries.

Josie hhhmed, measuring the amount she needed.

“Your sister is haunting everybody down for information on you.“ He looked over her shoulder. “And she is fuming like a volcano ready to erupt.“

“I talk to her when I’m done.“ Josie answered him absently, concentrating on not blowing herself up.

“What are you even doing?”

“Brewing poison.” Josie stated, meeting Kaleb’s stare blankly. He looked at her before he snorted.

“18 years with Lizzie and now you want to end it?“ He patted her back. “When you ready to talk, you might find me even if I’m hiding from my other girlfriend.“ He winked at her.

“You’ll know soon enough.” Josie remarked, focus already shifting back to her elixir.

Josie traced idly with her fingertips over the curve of Hope’s spine, feeling the smooth warm skin. Lips still tingling and her heart bursting.

Hope’s breathing steadily against her collarbone. One hand wrapped around Josie and one used as a pillow.

Softly she leaned down, unable to resist, placing a kiss on Hope’s temple. Hope curling closer.

Josie never wanted to wake up, rather staying here warm and content. Nose burried in Hope’s sweet smelling hair.

A crack echoed. Loud as a cannon.

The building shook, a shelf falling over. Hope shot up and Josie with her.

“What’s happening?“ Josie’s gaze roamed over the city seeing everything shake and tremble.

Followed by another crack.

The city flickering like a bad signal.

“I don’t know it’s been happening for a while.” Hope’s worried frown and the way she said it betrayed her calm.

“Why didn’t you-” Another crash and Josie woke up in her bed.

No, no, no. She needed to get Hope. Now.

Josie didn’t care for being sneaky and as Lizzie woke up while she gathered her things Josie put her to sleep with a spell.

Murmuring a silent apology as she unclasped her necklace and put it around Lizzie’s neck.

Pulling the covers over her and pressing a kiss against her forehead. Lizzie would forgive her for this.

If it didn’t work. If it did, Lizzie wouldn’t have to worry about the Merge anymore.

Josie rushed out of her room.

Her legs burned as Josie made it to the Expression Triangle.

Coughing as she gathered herself, pulling out the items she needed.

Closing her eyes as she reached deep, soaking up every bit of magic she could feel. Her body humming, dizzy as so much magic pulsed thru her.

When she was finished an eerie red glow was all over her.

Time for the next phase. Josie swallowed, taking the vial, uncorking it and drinking it in one go.

Josie landed more forceful than usually on the familiar pavement. Rolling to the side to avoid falling debris just in time.

She stood, shaking and bending over as her vision swam.

The magic under her skin boiling, tearing at her insides.

All around her buildings crashed and broke down. Josie shook it off.

She needed to find Hope. Running through the streets, Josie froze.

A giant Minotaur lumbering past her. Taking a turn and sighing when he didn’t notice her.

Arriving unscathed at the Mikaelson compound only to find Hope worse for wear.

Blood covering her body and her hand breaking through the chest of a Cyclops, ripping his heart out.

Landing gracefully on her feet like a cat as it turned into dust.

“Hope!“ Hope whirled around to face her gold turning into blue. “Josie what are you doing here?“

Hope rushed to her, grasping her shoulders. “You have to leave!“

“We have to leave.“ Josie took one of Hope’s hands, leading her into the compound.

Pulling her up the stairs in search for her bag.

“We?“ Hope inquired, glancing at Josie confused.

“I’m freeing you.“Josie fist bumped as she found the bag.

“Josie.“ Hope’s voice was thick with emotion. “I’m not just in any prison world.“

Hope confessed, biting her lip. Josie spared her a glance, drawing with chalk a pentagram on the floor.

“I know.“

“No, I haven’t told you, this is-”

“Malivore. We are in Malivore.”

“How did you-” Josie unpacked a lot of vials with blood.

“Prison worlds don’t have monstrous inhabitants nobody heard about but in myth.” Josie closed her eyes, murmuring the incantation.

"Is that my blood?“ Hope crouched down next to her.

“Yes, we don’t want the monsters escaping with you and it’s enough blood Malivore hopefully won’t miss you.” Josie explained afterwards pulling a thick red rope out of her bag.
“I need you to trust me.“ Josie offered Hope a hand as she stood, eyes boring into Hope’s. “I can get you out.“

Hope’s gaze flickered between her eyes. “I trust you.” Hope whispered, her thumb brushing over Josie’s knuckles. “Wait!“

Josie watched as Hope darted to her bed, pulling Mr. Snuggles out of a pile of blankets. Putting him into her shirt and taking Josie’s hand. “Now I’m ready.“

“Good.” Josie smiled briefly at her, binding the rope to herself and to Hope. “I need you to focus on me and nothing else, alright?“ Josie grasped Hope’s cheek, brushing back a wayward strand of hair.

“Okay.” Hope clasped her hand. Josie exhaled.

“No matter what happens don’t let me go.“ Hope glanced at her worriedly.

"You will be okay?“ Hope asked, her brows furrowed.

“I will be.” Josie would as long as she got Hope out of here.

Another crash, the floor beneath them trembling and reminding them of the urgency.

Josie gathered Hope in her arms, inhaling and tethering herself. Clearing her mind and concentrating on where she needed to go.

Phasmatos Tribum Melan Veras Raddiam Onu Pavadus Ponemus.

Josie chanted, magic leaving her. Hope’s nails digging into her back. First part done she chanted the second half.

The way out.

Nothing. Why did she feel nothing?

Josie blinked, thoughts running a mile a minute. This should have worked. Why-

Hope leaned back, gaze soft as she softly cradled Josie’s chin. “It’s okay.“ Hope smiled and Josie shook her head.

No. “Let me try again.“ Josie concentrated, senses feeling out for her anchor, before her mind’s eye blue eyes and blonde hair. A cheeky grin, a comforting hug.

Hope gave her a watery smile, a hint of dimples showing on her cheek. “I love you.“

Josie broke. Remembering every I love you her mother threw over her shoulder as she left again.

The ‘I love you’ from her bio-mom, tears running down her face as she offered her hand to Josie.

Penelope saying it so often then breaking up with her out of nowhere. Whispering it the last time as she turned away from her, leaving Josie’s life forever.

No. Not this time.

Josie would bring Hope home.

Josie growled, pulling Hope into her arms and chanting the incantation. Not letting up.

All the pent-up magic inside her vibrating. Reaching. She would save Hope.

Josie felt a tug in her gut, turning into a painful squeeze. Her breathing becoming labored, every inhale burning. Heavy weight settling in her gut.

Josie hugged Hope tighter remembering Hope.

Her head thrown back, shaking from laughing too hard. Hope jumping, clawing into the manticore fiercely. Hope cuddled together with Mr. Snuggles under a pile of blankets.

Josie was being ripped into two, everything bleeding together.

Blackness.

One moment Hope felt a tug, a squeeze.

Weightlessness until landing knocked the breath out of her lungs. The ground unforgiving.

Hope blinked, her vision swimming as the world came into focus. The sun above, the sky light blue, the surrounding woods. Hope laughed in disbelief.

They made it, Josie-

Hope sat up, dizzy, searching her surroundings for Josie. Seeing a body laying on the ground unmoving.

“Josie!” Hope cried, stumbling her way to her and crouching beside Josie’s limp body.

Turning her on her back, feeling for her pulse. Finding none.

Hope glanced down at Josie’s ashen face, shaking her head. “No. No.“

Hope leaned down, straining her hearing for her heartbeat. The one she had listened to so often in the last months. Lulling her unwillingly more than once to sleep.

Silence greeted her.

“Please, please I’m begging you don’t do this to me.“ Hope clutched Josie to herself.

“Don’t leave me too.“ Hope broke down. “You promised to stay."

This couldn’t be happening. Not again. Not after-

Josie sharply inhaled, trembling in her grip and Hope pulled her immediately closer.

“Josie!“ Josie panted, her breathing erratic, her heart thundering.

“It’s okay, we’re okey.“ Josie embraced her tightly. “Shhh just breathe.“ Hope rubbed her back.

“I’m here.“ Hope ignored the tears still running down her cheeks focusing on Josie.

Relieved to hear her chest rise and fall. Josie calming, melting into her. Hope sunk against her. Disbelieving. They had made it.
Josie had freed her. They were both alive.

Hope buried herself into Josie’s neck, soothed by the beat of Josie’s pulse she could feel against her cheek.

Not seeing the dark veins flickering under Josie’s eyes.