𝐊𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐀

𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞 . XXV .

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The brief moment between niece and uncle didn't last long, as if the universe was battling against them with tooth and claw to ensure that the fox's mission would never be fulfilled; as if he didn't deserve happiness from the past he wove for himself. Focus had remained upon Hope as she worked at unraveling the knot to release the witches from the hollow's power, Kol's dark gaze never faltered as the agonizingly slow process built up a sense of anxiety within his chest which only increased at the sound  of movement from beneath them within the courtyard of the compound. He inhaled deeply and held his breath as he moved to slowly stand. 

" Alright, focus on the knot luv. It's very important and I'll be right back. " he spoke to Hope who gazed up with a small smile, intent on finishing the task at hand if it meant bringing happiness to their family. 

Kol was quick to depart from the room and speed down to the floor level where he came face to face with Niklaus who held a gaze that even death would cower from, but not the younger Mikaelson, not this time... on any other day he would turn tail and run to the furthest corners on the planet but he had to stand his ground. For their sake.

" I can imagine right now you're rather cross with me. You should know I have my reasons. " he spoke, hands raised slightly in an attempt to prove his peaceful approach to what would most likely end in a bloody confrontation. 

Niklaus's eyes narrowed as he took a step towards his younger brother. " Rebekah suggested I hear them. I'd rather rip out your vocal chords. " with every word he steps closer until he swings for the fox and sends him hurtling across the courtyard and into a clump upon the concrete floor. A groan leaving Kol as he turned his head back to his brother that was already making his way swiftly over to him, he had to move quickly as he got back onto his feet and delivered a harsh kick into Klaus' chest which resulted in him falling against the foliage covered fountain.

" Now stop and listen! " He began, speaking through gritted teeth; his words brining Niklaus to a stop before him. " I did what I did for Davina, the Hollow brought her back and now they're linked. As is Evelyn. I just need a bloody second to set them free. " His tone sharp in delivering his demands, hoping that he might see reason. He did not, Niklaus returned to stand just before Kol and grabbed him by his jacket to fling him to the other side of the room and into the furniture. Kol once again groaning as the hybrid began his lecture. 

" Lovesick imbecile. The Hollow preys upon your weakness, she used those witches to get you to betray your family, and you, pathetic as you are, leapt at the chance! " The words enough to evoke Kol to swing at his brother, easily deflected as were the next few blows before with the right footing he was able to throw Klaus into the same chairs he'd just been launched at. Words growing more bitter as he tried to force his brothers perspective from that of a traitorous action to what he truly believed was noble. " Our family owes them that much! " He spoke, something he believed with all his being. The actions of both witches had massively impacted the ongoing survival of their family, how could Niklaus not see this? Was he truly blinded by a lovesick hue over his eyes?

" I owe them nothing. Nor to you. " Niklaus spoke, slowly rising from the floor and dangerously gazing upon the traitorous Mikaelson as he sped towards him and tackled Kol, throwing him down onto the ground.

"  Evelyn saved our lives! " Kol spoke, pushing himself once again off of the ground. " That was her own choice.. " The older Mikaelson retorted, kicking Kol once more as the totem rolls out from his jacket pocket and right underneath Niklaus' boot. Kol froze, looking between the totem and his brother, shaking his head desperately watching on.