Back in Mystic Falls

41. Stern Talks and New Friendships

Pairing: Hayley/Kathy (F/f) slipper

Mikaelson Estate

Mystic Falls, Virginia

August 1855

Same Day, Afternoon

Kol felt horrible.

"Damon, mate. I can take another fast horse and try to go after her," Kol started. "We can use Solomon's blood to do a locator spell. The staff thinks she headed west..."

Damon hung his head. He cleared his throat and said hoarsely, "Nay, Kol. Emily needs that horse more than me. I did not know her plight. I am being selfish and unkind. It tis just it was the only gift I ever got from my father. I mean, Giuseppe."

Kol patted Damon on the back.

"I know who you meant. Our father is a right bastard, but I cannot recall a single act of kindness from him. He only left us with bruises and scalding words that sears our very souls. At least you had this small piece of remembrance from your father. I should have clarified to Emily that the blue roan was off-limits. It twas my error, I was not thinking. I shall repay you," Kol offered.

"Nay, I cannot take anything in turn. Azul was meant to run and he will for Emily. Solomon has lost his mother again, that tis worse," Damon said, stiffening up. He was ashamed that he had lost his wits at the stable. Kol and Damon saw Solomon hiding behind another shed. Damon pointed and Kol saw the young boy loitering.

"Lad, come on. No one is vexed with you. It tis almost supper. Venison tonight," Kol called out. "I think there is even a lemon cake for dessert."

Solomon peeked around the shed and Damon smiled.

"Come on, Solomon. You can wash up for supper with us," Damon offered, holding out his hand.

The small boy ran out and took Damon's hand without a word.

"I hear you like magic, too," Damon whispered. "Maybe Kol will teach us a special spell tonight?"

"I will give you a spell that will put you right to sleep. I used to use that one on Niklaus when he complained about my snoring," Kol jested. "Just do not reveal that one to him. I have kept that a secret for nine centuries now."

"Nine centuries! Why that tis 900 years. No one is that old," Solomon determined. "You are funning us!"

Damon laughed as they walked to the water pump.

"Nay, Kol here is quite old. He was a Viking," Damon added.

Kol cringed, "Well, my father was the Viking. Luckily, he was gone much of the time raiding and doing whatever else he did...killing things mainly."

Kol trailed off when he noticed Solomon looking at him with big, brown eyes filled with worry. Kol stopped and leaned down.

"I am sorry, lad. Look, now that your mum had to go, you are still safe. We shall look after you, all of us. You need not worry about that," Kol said seriously.

Solomon nodded and then started to cry. The reality of his mother leaving hit him hard.

Kol scooped him up and carrying him past the pump. They would wash inside. It was better lest Elijah chide them for uncivilized behavior, as he saw it. Only the workman and labors were to wash in public, but heavens forbid if they should come to supper with dirty boots and grubby faces.

Parlor

Elena shifted at the desk as she finished her studies. Rebekah brought her a cup of tea.