chapter 69

Over the next couple of months at school Lizzie made friends with some of Hope's friend group and made a few of her own along the way. The younger Saltzman twin quickly realised that she had covered most of the theory work at the Salvatore School.

Obviously Lizzie quickly grew bored as the practical and magic was also remarkably easy for her as well. It was something that caused Hope and Lizzie to occasionally play footsie under the table or telekinetically pinch the other to fill in their boredom.

It only took Daphne half a period to realise what the 2 time-travellers were doing and she couldn't contain the urge to roll her eyes at the old friends. Although Lady Greengrass couldn't stop the smile that graced her face when she saw how comfortable Hope was with Lizzie. Daphne hasn't seen Hope this carefree at Hogwarts unless you count those moments in the Room of Requirement or in Hope and Daphne's dorm room.

Hope had wondered if Lizzie wanted to join her and Daphne in their Duelling classes but Lizzie declined as she didn't want to spend all her time following in Hope's footsteps and wished to explore the castle and this universe. Lizzie always loved the 'Harry Potter' books and movies. It was a dream of the young Siphoner's to explore Hogwarts castle. So that is exactly what she did with the biggest smile on her face.

One thing that Lizzie was determined to learn was all the forms of magic from this universe, especially apparation. Hope was more than happy to teach Lizzie but the young Tribrid wanted to show Lizzie how to identify her magic.

Even with Freya's herbs helping the young Siphoner with her bi-polar disorder Lizzie still had trouble meditating for long periods of time. This led to Lizzie glaring at Hope for long periods of time until the copper haired girl sighed and stopped trying to teach Lizzie this skill to find her magic. Lizzie was from her universe so she didn't really need to find her magic to understand how it works.

Lizzie actually found it easier learning from Daphne over Hope. The blonde haired Siphoner always thought that Hope was such a perfect 'Miss Know It All' and made everything appear seamless as if she could do nothing wrong. Hope shook her head in amusement as she chuckled at Lizzie's reasoning. Hope thought it was funny considering that Daphne would perform the spell exactly like Hope had earlier.

Daphne tried to explain to her soulmate that it was much more daunting learning from a friend or a rival than a relative stranger. The fear that she can't do it and that Hope could make fun of her for not being able to do what Hope could do.

Hope frowned as she vehemently defended herself saying that she would never do that to Lizzie. Daphne placated her wife saying that she knew that. Daphne even stressed that even Lizzie knew that as well. It's just the possibility of disappointing Hope in some way that fuels the younger Saltzman's fear.

The Mikaelson girl quickly understood what Daphne meant as Hope sometimes felt like this when Freya was teaching her. It's more difficult learning from someone you look up to. Hope calmed down after this and let Lizzie move at her own pace.

Daphne was ultimately thankful to teach Lizzie as it provided a distraction from school, her own grief and her new responsibilities as Lady Greengrass.

The eldest Greengrass daughter named her mother as the Greengrass Proxy to the Most Ancient and Noble House after checking with her mother if she wanted to take on the role. Daphne was concerned that it would remind her mother of her husband and possibly cause a problem.

Anna shook off her daughter's worries as she agreed to take on some of the roles like teaching Astoria how to be an Heiress and what will be required of her. The youngest Greengrass almost threw away her Heiress ring when she learned that she would have to marry a respectable man and continue the Greengrass line.

Hope had quickly put this idea down the drain as she took her sister-in-law to Gringotts after Anna had informed Stori of this dilemma and had the Goblins perform the Inheritance Test again. Hope already knew that Stori didn't have to marry someone else.

Strangely enough the Tribrid could smell the slight change in her little sister -in-law's scent, a hint of roses and jasmine hovered on the outskirts of Astoria's normal scent of chocolate, wind and ink.

After the Inheritance Test had finished filling itself in, using Atoria's blood and magic, it showed an awaiting marriage against her name. Stori looked confused as she asked Hope how did she know that she was already in a potential marriage to Gabrielle Delacour.

King Ragnok joined Hope's explanation as he informed the youngest Greengrass that the leaders of a magical species have stronger senses than most. Thus allowing them to feel the potential bonds between mated pairs. Especially if one of these people had an ability to form a bond like Werewolves, Veelas, the Fae, Vampires, Elves and many other types of magical creatures.

Ragnok and Hope simply knew that the youngest daughter of the Most Ancient and Noble House Delacour had formed one of these bonds with Astoria. Everyone in the room could see the pure relief on Astoria's face as she launched herself at her sister.

"I can't believe it sis! We're both able to love the person we dreamed about without any repercussions!" Stori cried out in glee. Daphne wrapped her little sister in a tight embrace as she rocked them back and forth.

There was a real smile on the Ice Witch's face as she celebrated with her little sister. Anna wanted to be concerned about the continuation of the Greengrass line but couldn't see the point anymore as her daughters finally looked happy for the first time in their lives when it came to romantic partners.

The Greengrass matriarch came up to her daughters and brought them into a threeway hug as she told them just how proud she was of her two beautiful daughters. It was a very emotional moment that Hope felt that she was imposing on. So the Tribrid moved outside with Ragnok as she discussed if she could use one of the Goblins' time altering rooms over the Yule holidays to help catch Lizzie up to speed.

To both Hope and Daphne's great annoyance and displeasure, Lady Greengrass and Lady Emrys are now in charge of the Neutral Faction meaning that they have to host this year's Yule Ball. The Emrys couple decided that instead of hosting the Yule Ball at the Greengrass Farm like they normally would, they would hire out a venue for the night.

The ice-based blonde witch must've picked up on Hope's paranoia over the years. Daphne had wondered in complete bafflement; why would she invite hundreds of people into her home to scope out the place for any weaknesses? It didn't make any sense.

Hope only shrugged in acceptance as she dutifully helped her wife hire all the caterers and decorations for the night.

On the other hand Lizzie had jumped in head first when she heard about Hope and Daphne hosting a Ball over the Christmas holidays and offered her expertise and help. Daphne looked to Hope for an indicator on whether this would be a good idea or not.

The auburn haired girl gave a half shrug as she told her wife that Lizzie is good at setting up parties although the younger blonde girl can go way over the top. Especially if the Siphoner didn't have someone to balance out her more outrageous ideas. Hope explained that Josie would always trail behind Lizzie when they were setting up for a party or event at the school and Jo would remove anything she deemed dangerous or inappropriate.

The icy Greengrass agreed but only with the exception if Freya was the one to help Lizzie stay focused.

Hope watched in fascination as Lizzie would follow her Aunt around like a little duckling, full of wonder and awe as she constantly asked the older Mikaelson questions in hopes of receiving reassurances and praise from the older woman. Freya seemed to fall into a more motherly role around the Saltzman girl and Lizzie happily ate it up.

Hope bit her lip to stay silent as she watched her friends' interactions with her Aunt until she got an opportunity to have a moment alone to speak to her Aunt about why she was acting this way with Lizzie.

"You really shouldn't be jealous of Lizzie Hope." Freya told her niece as she crossed her arms.

"I'm not jealous!... I think…" Hope replied way too quickly before frowning as considering her emotions.

"Huh… I'm not jealous. Isn't that interesting." The youngest Mikaelson muttered under her breath to which Freya also heard the amazement, showing that her niece wasn't lying.

The eldest Mikaelson sibling uncrossed her arms as she no longer felt like she needed to defend her actions against her niece anymore.

Hope looked up with bright eyes that were so familiar to her father as she asked her Aunt in genuine curiosity. "Why do you treat Lizzie so much like me? I mean, you rarely show this caring and loving side of yourself unless it's with family. What makes Lizzie so special?"

Freya took a deep breath as she moved to take a seat and motioned for Hope to join her. The Tribrid happily took the spot next to Freya and held her hand out for the older witch to take, which the Viking Witch accepted with a pleased smile.

"Well I suppose the place to start would be that Lizzie is your friend." Freya began as she rubbed her thumb on the back of Hope's hand as she spoke.

"Sweetheart, you've never mentioned that you've made friends before and I don't want to be the reason to scare her off." Hope gave a smile at the effort her Aunt was going through to make sure that she doesn't scare Lizzie away from the Mikaelson dramatics.

"Let's face it, us Mikaelsons tend to frighten whomever we come into contact with." Freya finished with a small smirk that Hope returned with a chuckle.

Freya stopped for a moment as she considered her words. "I've had plenty of time to speak to her while you were looking after the Greengrass' after Marcus's death. Lizzie never blamed you for prioritising the Greengrass' mental state over her own. Lizzie knows without a shadow of a doubt that when a Mikaelson considers someone family, we do everything in our power to make sure they are safe."

Hope nodded along with her Aunt's words as she learned in the small window of time when they were finally friends that Lizzie was so much more than the popular mean girl she portrayed herself as in their universe. Lizzie Saltzman was a complicated girl with layers of depth that not even Hope was fully aware of yet.

"Although in your case, Lizzie says you would return back to being a 'martyr'. Her word." Freya added as Hope couldn't help but to laugh, hearing Lizzie berate her for being so stupid when it comes to her own safety.

"But you should know that Lizzie hasn't had it easy either." Freya had Hope's absolute attention as she continued. "Her mother has been MIA for most of her childhood, especially through her teenage years. Her father isn't the man she thought he was. Not the saviour or hero he depicted himself as, all the while he wrote disparaging stories about us, the Mikaelsons. Lizzie is questioning everything she once thought she knew because she no longer believes or trusts her father." Hope's jaw flexed at Lizzie's internal struggle.

Freya bit her lip as she watched her niece. "I think that Lizzie can tell you about Josie herself, as that is a can of worms that not even Kol would open if he valued his life." Hope let out a small chuckle at the mention of her Uncle.

"Lizzie needs someone she respects to fill in the role as a parent. She does the same thing with Nic and Nelle. Lizzie only trusts them, because you trust them Hope." Freya explained with a hint of pride in her voice.

"Oh…" Hope replied as a million thoughts went through her head.

"I never thought about it that way. I was always too busy feeling sorry for myself that I've always had trouble picking up on when other people needed help." The Tribrid mentioned as she beated herself up for not realising Lizzie needed her help.

"Occasionally I would pick up on when someone needed help but it only lasted for a few minutes before I became mopey Hope again." Hope rolled her eyes as she could imagine Lizzie making fun of her.

Freya gave a tiny chuff of laughter at the descriptive rhyme before clearing her face of her humour as she needed to be serious for her next piece of counsel. "You were grieving Hope. You are allowed to grieve for however long you need. Lizzie understood this most of the time."

"I really should give her more credit." The Tribrid mentioned as she motioned to stand up. "I'll talk to her more during the Yule holidays when we go to Gringotts to fill her in on everything. Will you join me and Daphne in the time-altering room?"

Freya squinted her eyes at Hope. "You still haven't spoken to her yet?"

"I have. But there is a lot to cover Auntie. We need the privacy the room provides and perhaps the use of a pensive. It will take time and Lizzie was okay to wait to get all the answers over Yule. Although if Lizzie asks me any questions I will answer them." The auburn haired girl admitted with a one shouldered shrug.

"Also I wanted to thank you for helping Lizzie with her bi-polar disorder. I feel like she's doing a lot better mentally since you've given her the herbs. I've asked Lizzie a few times how she feels throughout the school year and she's been finding it much easier to concentrate and that she isn't having any sudden outbursts." Hope thanked her Aunt with a long and grateful hug.

Freya chuckled softly as she returned the hug. "It's been my pleasure. Lizzie is a remarkable young woman and I've enjoyed her company Hope. She's quite amusing."

Hope groaned as she pulled away from Freya. "Oh dear God, what has she been telling you?"

Freya placed her finger to her lips as though to say her lips were sealed and apparated away before her niece could question her further.

"Aunt Freya!!!" Hope called out into thin air and groaned as she collapsed back into the seat, placing her head in her hands.

"Why did it have to be Lizzie?" Hope breathed out in frustration. "Why couldn't it have been MG or Raf or even Jo? They wouldn't embarrass me like Lizzie… Okay maybe Jo would. MG wouldn't dare though and Raf… Raf."

Hope chuckled as she imagined her Werewolf friend squirming uncomfortably under her Aunt's intense gaze. "Poor Raf wouldn't know how to handle Aunt Freya."

It was almost midday of Yule or as universal-travellers would rather call it Christmas day, Hope apparated to the Emrys Castle located in Wales. This is where Freya and Lizzie decided they were going to live during their stay in this universe.

Hope moved around the large castle as she sensed the property to find out where her Aunt and best friend were. From what the Tribrid could tell Lizzie was still in her bed asleep and it seemed that Freya was awake and in the kitchen. Hope made her way into the kitchen as she watched her Aunt take a sip of her coffee, moaning in delight and Hope chuckled in amusement.

Freya's jade coloured eyes glanced up above the rim of her cup to take in her niece's appearance. Hope was dressed in a plain deep emerald shirt with her mother's leather jacket over the top and paired it with some waist high jeans. A very classic Hope style.

Freya smirked at her niece. "Merry Christmas Hope."

Hope smiled back as she waited for her Aunt to place her coffee cup on the kitchen island as she approached her Aunt with her arms outstretched. Freya happily accepted the auburn haired girl into her arms as Hope replied into her shoulder. "Merry Christmas Auntie Freya."

The Mikaelson women remained together for nearly five minutes before slowly pulling apart as the sound of dark and light birds filled the room.

Myrddin landed on Freya's right shoulder as he held himself up proudly with his chest puffed out. Alexandria perched herself on Hope's left shoulder and nuzzled into the Tribrid's warm neck as the Thunderbird absorbed some leftover magic radiating from her Familiar.

Over time Myrddin preferred to stick by Freya's side more than Hope's these days as the Tribrid was more than able to take care of herself and Hope no longer needed the Phoenix' constant supervision. Hope was no longer taking on the world on her own. The youngest Mikaelson was finally able to live her life without needing to balance the world on her shoulders and was more emotionally stable with Daphne's soulmate bond. It also helped to have Freya and Lizzie in this universe so she wasn't alone in this new world and reality.

Although this universe was taking its toll on Freya. The 1,000 year old witch was leaning more into the side of depression. Hope and Lizzie were certainly making it bearable for the Immortal Viking Witch. Even the Flamels and Greengrass' were helping Freya deal with the loneliness she was feeling being away from her family and Keelin.

The midnight Phoenix took the initiative to become Freya's companion for the time being as the eldest Mikaelson needed his help more than Hope required Myrddin's help.

"Will you and Lizzie be joining us soon?" Hope asked her Aunt.

Freya chuckled. "I think you of all people should know how difficult it is to wake Lizzie when she truly doesn't want to wake up."

The Tribrid rolled her sea-blue eyes in annoyance as she chuckled. "I do. I'll wake her up. It's nearly time for lunch and to open the presents."

Hope grumbled to herself as she walked out of the kitchen. "Lizzie's just lucky that I don't set another alarm clock like I do at school."

Freya laughed as she heard the frustrated comment her niece made on her way out of the room as she recalled what Hope made in lieu of an alarm clock. Hope mentioned how she would apparate into Lizzie's dorm room and cast a few spells on a random item. She would use a time spell that was set to go off at 7am in the morning, another that would transfigure that item into a goat and the last one was a small electric shock that would cause the goat to let out a loud bellow.

"I don't want a goat in the house Hope." The older witch called out.

Hope waved her hand in dismissal as she walked around the corner. "Don't you mean the extravagant, oversized castle that's way too large for just 2 people."

Freya sighed and rolled her eyes as she wondered if she should create some form of earmuffs to block out the pre-emptive headache that those girls will most likely cause.

Hope stopped outside Lizzie's room for a moment as she quickly muttered a protection spell around herself before opening the door. The Tribrid ducked at the sense of flying at her head as a wooden stake passed over her head. Hope sighed as she rose to her full height rolling her eyes in annoyance at Lizzie's defensive traps.

Honestly the Tribrid is impressed that Lizzie is using such defensive techniques to protect herself until Hope recalled that her friend was basically kidnapped by an evil madman and his followers. Hope looked to her right and picked up a clutch purse off the top of the dresser and played with it for a moment.

Hope tossed the silver coloured purse at the sleeping girl, hitting Lizzie soundly on her back. The blonde girl grunted and groaned as she twisted around in bed.

Lizzie sent a nasty glare through her lashes as steel-blue eyes locked on Hope.

"You know, I was having a really nice dream Hope. Why do you always have to wake me up? Why did you wake me up?" Lizzie paused in her tired and angry rambling as she looked down to see her clutch purse on the bed. "Did you throw my $300 purse at me?" The Siphoner incredulously exclaimed as she moved to sit in an upright position with a devilish look on her face.

Hope blinked for a moment as she wondered if she should run in the other direction or brush Lizzie's anger aside.

"Okay… One, I'm sorry for throwing your clutch and if I damaged it, I'll buy you a new one." Lizzie made a small noise of acknowledgement as she moved to collect her clutch and check to see if Hope had broken it. "Two, why on earth do you have a $300 clutch?"

"Hope, sweetie Tribrid." The blonde Siphoner started and Hope's eyebrows rose at the description Lizzie had given her. "I need this purse. It's a fashion statement and now that I have money, I will buy whatever I want to feel comfortable in this universe."

Hope tilted her head to the side as she could nearly hear the bitchiness mixed with a thin layer of fear behind it. Hope frowned slightly at Lizzie as the younger girl turned away from the Tribrid's curious and concerned gaze.

The youngest Mikaelson gave a tiny huff of forced laughter. "Too bad the fashion in the 90's is not what you're used to. How is it? Trying to navigate the styles of two exceptionally different time periods?"

There must've been enough genuine curiosity in Hope's voice to get Lizzie to respond normally, the fear completely disappearing from the blonde's voice. "You have no idea."

Lizzie let out a relieved sigh. "Thank God you didn't break it. I'm planning on using this at the Ball tonight."

"That's good. I didn't really want to pay for a $300 purse." Hope mumbled to herself as Lizzie looked up and hummed in confusion as she didn't hear what Hope said.

"Now come on. Get up Liz! It's Yul – Christmas and it's almost midday. You're apart of my family. We have some presents for you and a large Christmas dinner with your name on it." Hope offered as she walked over to the younger girl and pulled the sheets off Lizzie.

Lizzie groaned loudly as she tried to pull the sheets back over her body as it was still quite cold in Wales at midday. "Hope!" Lizzie shouted angrily at the auburn haired girl.

"Up Lizzie! Now!" Hope ordered as she reached over to pull the blonde witch to her feet and out of bed. "Go. Shower. Get ready. Freya and I will wait until you're ready. So hurry up, Mixy makes one hell of a roast that you don't want to miss."

Lizzie rolled her eyes as she pulled away from Hope.

"Fine." Lizzie grumbled over her shoulder as she picked some clothes out of her dresser and headed out of the room to make her way into the bathroom.

"Doesn't mean you have to be such a bitch waking me up though." Lizzie muttered under her breath as she closed the door.

"I heard that!" Hope called back so the younger girl could hear her.

"No you didn't." Lizzie replied loudly.

"Didn't have to."

Hope smirked to herself at the familiarity of the conversation and she even heard a small chuckle come from the bathroom as Lizzie must've had the same thought.

It took almost an hour for Lizzie to decide to grace the Mikaelson's with her illuminating presence. As it turned out, Daphne was also waiting alongside Hope and Freya. Each of the women were dressed in emerald shirts to commemorate the holiday. The young Emrys couple, who were used to wearing Slytherin colours, were more than happy to continue wearing emerald, silver and black as the colour suited their complexion.

Daphne wished to get out of her house for a couple of reasons after spending the morning with Hope, her mother, her sister and Astoria's girlfriend, Gabrielle. The Emrys couple were catching up with the elder Mikaelson witch when Daphne made a comment that Astoria and Gabrielle were more nauseating to watch than her and Hope.

Freya couldn't help but to snort at the observation that the icy girl made the other two girls in the room find this mildly offensive as they turned in perfect synchronisation to glare at the older woman.

Lizzie noticed the glares the Emrys couple were giving Freya and immediately came to a cautious stop as she surveyed the room for a moment. "What happened? Actually, do I want to know what happened?"

Freya faced the blonde Siphoner with a wide smile on her face as she tried to contain her laughter, not caring if her niece and her niece's Mate were giving her death glares.

The Viking Witch was slowly starting to let the youngest Saltzman slip past her hardened barriers that were built from all the betrayals, traumas and personal experiences that the eldest Mikaelson has had to live through.

Once Freya was able to compose herself long enough to answer Lizzie, she greeted the late riser. "Good morning sleepyhead." Lizzie rolled her eyes at the nickname.

"Hope and Daphne seemingly believe that they aren't as lovey-dovey as Astoria and Gabrielle. They are complaining that they cuddle too much and that makes them uncomfortable." Lizzie's eyes rose as she watched the Immortal Witch taunt the almighty Tribrid with surprise clearly visible in her steel-blue eyes.

"I said that they must be dreaming because these two are not subtle in the slightest." Freya continued as she launched a shit-eating grin in Hope's direction.

Lizzie covered her mouth for a moment as the first hint of laughter bubbled up inside her before she let loose with a boisterous laugh. "Oh my god! You two are as subtle as Umbridge's hate for children."

Daphne looked somewhat confused as she frowned at Lizzie. "You weren't even here when Umbitch was teaching."

The blonde Siphoner could only laugh more. "Daphne, Elsa, Ice Queen of Hogwarts. I didn't need to be here. Remember? The three of us are from a universe where Umbridge was sometimes considered the main villain in the 'Harry Potter' universe, not the Dark Wanker. People hated Umbridge more than Snake Eyes."

Hope chuckled slightly along with her aunt as Lizzie snarkily remarked back to Daphne's inquiry while also throwing in a couple of common nicknames that Lady Greengrass was becoming accustomed to. The Emrys Consort could only roll her ice coloured eyes at the smartass reply and quickly realised how Hope and Lizzie were able to become friends.

Their wicked sense of humour was so similar and dry that she was immensely surprised that the Salvatore School was still standing with these two hotheads in the same vicinity.

Daphne would admit that it probably helped that one of them was the Headmaster's daughter while the other was under the Headmaster's intense supervision. Alaric Saltzman always preferred to keep the Tribrid on a short leash and constantly monitoring her every move rather than spending time with his own children.

The more Daphne learned about Hope's universe and about Alaric Saltzman, the more she wanted to punch the man in the face. Especially after hearing how he wrote the curriculum on the Originals. How he painted Hope's family out to be 100% evil and always acted without remorse or humanity.

The Headmaster taught these stories as irrefutable fact to Hope's class and the rest of the school, forcing Hope to listen to all this bullshit in silence as she was parading around as Hope 'Marshall', not Hope 'Mikaelson'. Although from what the Ice Witch could tell Dr Saltzman would've taught this history no matter if Hope was in the class or not.

"Oh right. I keep forgetting that you three already know basically all there is to know about my universe. It's still so… bizarre and freaky that my whole life has basically been on display for all to see. I feel somewhat violated… even though the 'Harry Potter' stories barely even include me and my family." Daphne admitted honestly, sobering the 3 women from another universe.

The blonde witch realised that she somehow managed to fill the room with complete silence and cleared her throat awkwardly, shocking the 3 time-travellers out of their stupor. "I still think that Stori and Gabi are moving too fast."

Freya covered her mouth with a fake cough as she didn't even try to disguise the "Hypocrite." Daphne grumbled loudly as she formed snow crystals in the kitchen. Hope watched on in amusement while the older witch rolled her eyes.

Lizzie on the other hand smirked. "Oh please. I call bullshit. I heard how quickly you got together with Fleur Delacour. Also I never would've guessed that Hope Mikaelson would be into threesomes or polyamory, you've always been a loner Hope."

Daphne blushed at the reminder of her ex and Hope looked away in embarrassment at being called out by the youngest Siphoner.

"I may have only known you for 2 months Daphne, but I've learned a lot about you in that time. I know that you are completely devoted to Hope and your family. I know that you hide all of your emotions behind that Ice Mask of yours so that no one will know what's going on in that brilliant mind of yours. Hiding yourself so no one knows if you are hurting or not." Lizzie explained in exasperation as she talked with her hands to help explain herself much to Hope's amusement.

Daphne looked at Lizzie with an uncomfortable expression on her face at being read by the Siphoner so easily.

Lizzie was overall impressed with the meal that the Flamel's House Elf provided. The Siphoner quickly realised that everyone slipped into a certain ease around the other, one that Lizzie herself wasn't immune to. Everyone included Lizzie into their conversations and made sure that she was enjoying herself.

To be frank, as much as she missed her family, this Christmas with Hope and her family was already overtaking her most cherished Christmas memories than most of the Christmases she had in nearly 10 years.

Without her mum being present and her father usually drinking away his life over the holidays. All Lizzie had was Josie and an emotionally stunted Hope 'Marshall' butting her way into all of her holidays.

Josie and Lizzie did what they could to make the day enjoyable for their sister. They would often make something important for the other and since their father never knew what to buy for the twins. He would give them cash which they would spend the next day during the sales all while dragging the mopey Tribrid behind them as the older girl was sent by their dad to look over them.

It's why Lizzie gave up trying to enjoy Christmas anymore. It was barely worth the effort anymore.

Lizzie jolted slightly as Hope suddenly appeared in front of the Saltzman girl with a present held out in the blonde's direction with a small concerned look on her face. Lizzie politely accepted the gift from the Tribrid and noticed that the Flamels, Freya and Daphne all had a gift for her as well. The Siphoner was flabbergasted, she didn't expect any presents from half of the people here. She barely knew them.

Lizzie felt bad for not getting a gift for the Flamels but Nic and Nelle quickly told the blonde not to worry about it. Nelle reminded Lizzie that they have been around for centuries and truly don't need any gifts. Nic jokingly said that if she did want to get them something then they would gladly accept it, knowing that the blonde Siphoner could potentially be as prideful as the Tribrid was when she first arrived in this universe.

The blonde had already decided that she was going to get something for the Flamels before the elderly French couple even voiced their thoughts. Lizzie would feel unbelievably guilty for not getting them a gift when they went through the effort to get her something.

The Saltzman twin ended up getting quite a lot of expensive Acromantula Silk clothes from Nic and Nelle as Lizzie enjoyed the feel of the fabric and the comfort it provided. Daphne got the younger blonde an archery set. The arrows were enchanted to magically return to the quiver after 30 seconds from being shot. Lady Greengrass noticed that she was interested in archery when watching Daph practise.

Freya created a pensive that was able to fit into a clasp locket so Lizzie could always relive a memory with her family before everything went to shit for the Saltzman twins. The Viking Witch decided to forgo the one present rule for Yule as she felt that Lizzie needed a little bit extra reassurances to know that she was loved and cared for with them. The other present that the eldest Mikaelson gave the young blonde girl was an Emrys ring.

The Emrys family still had an impressive sway over the magical community in both their universe and this one Freya had asked Ragnok if she could procure a ring or something similar for the girl to wear to show that she is under the protection of the Emrys family. Like what Hope did for Luna at the beginning of the 3rd year.

The only gift that Lizzie was already somewhat aware of what she was getting was from Hope. The two girls from another universe had a rather long and extensive talk before Christmas. Hope asked Lizzie if she felt safe and secure in this universe. Hope also asked if there was anything else she could do to make Lizzie feel safer.

After listening to Lizzie's concerns and worries, Hope suggested using her blood as a method to keep her safe. Lizzie's face screwed up in disgust at the thought of drinking Hope's blood.

Hope told Lizzie that she didn't want the Siphoner to use her blood to transition into a Vampire. Hope offered her blood for the first time in this universe as she trusted Lizzie with it and not to abuse it. The Tribrid's blood was a powerful source of magic that Lizzie could siphon if she didn't have someone to siphon off of and Hope was more than willing to replace the blood whenever all the magic was gone. The auburn haired girl had also mentioned that Lizzie could use the Vampire blood to heal herself if for some reason the Siphoner was injured and there was no one around to help her.

It was harder to shop for Hope now that she was used to her wealth and realised that she already owned most things that Wizards would kill for if they knew that she had them. But that didn't stop everyone from trying.

Nic and Nelle worked together with Freya and Professor Babbling to create some powerful runestones that they gifted to Hope for her to share with her friends. The first allowed Hope to imbue the runestone into a power outlet or electronic device, basically allowing her to use forms of technology. Lizzie practically demanded these runestones until Hope reminded her that they weren't in their time where they had mobiles, fast computers or anything that they were used to. Lizzie quickly deflated after that as she pouted with her arms crossed by Freya's side as the older woman placed a hand on her shoulder.

Luna was away with her father looking for another mythical creature somewhere in Iceland but left the Emrys couple a small box for them to open. Strangely enough, Luna gave both Hope and Daphne matching onyx bracelets with an additional bracelet each. All of the bracelets had four charms on them.

Hope easily identified all of the charms as they were zodiac constellations in the night sky contained in a spherical charm similar to Luna's earrings. There was Hope's sign, Taurus as well as Daphne's, Capricorn. The other two were Sagittarius and Aquarius. Hope and Daphne could only look at each other in complete confusion and excitement as they silently decided to speak to Luna sometime over these holidays.

Daphne on the other hand wished to wait until later in the day to show Hope her gift as she didn't want anyone else to see what she got the Tribrid. Thankfully Hope didn't have to wait around long to find out what Mate got her. It was a beautiful white dress.

"Is that what I think it is?" Hope quietly questioned as she slowly approached the dress with pure amazement in her watery eyes.

Daphne shyly nodded her head as she came up behind Hope to rest her chin on the shorter girl's shoulder. "Mmm." Daphne hummed against Hope's back as she wrapped her arms around Hope's waist.

"I wasn't sure if you would like it. So I asked your Aunt for some ideas on what she thought you might like. Freya gave some ideas but ultimately told me that I needed to make the choice myself." Daphne remarked as she buried her face into Hope's neck taking in the Tribrid's woodsy scent.

Hope was still speechless as her fingers grazed over the silky material in wonder.

The Ice Witch could feel Hope's excitement but the Tribrid's silence was grating on Daphne's nerves something fierce. "So do you like it darling?"

Hope felt Daphne's anxiety shoot through her like a frostbite as the firstborn Mikaelson witch snapped herself out of her stupor with a small jolt. The Tribrid turned around in her Mate's arms and looped her arms over the blonde's shoulders and leaned in to press a long sweet kiss against Daphne's cold lips. Hope's Wolf purred in content.

The Tribrid pulled back slightly as her eyes glowed a brilliant amber. "I love it Daph. It's absolutely beautiful!"

Daphne released a thankful sigh as she lowered her head against Hope's as a large weight was lifted off her shoulders. "You have no idea how glad I am to hear that. I was really concerned that you wouldn't like it." Daphne exclaimed with a small laugh.

Hope couldn't help but join her wife in her relieved laughter as the Tribrid felt Daphne's joy through their soulbond. Hope tilted her head up so she could suck a dark mark into snow-white skin of the other girl's neck.

Daphne could only moan at the feeling of Hope's lips against her cooled skin. "Hope… Please." Daphne half-heartedly complained as she tried to pull away ever so slightly.

"We are hosting the Yule Ball in a couple of hours and I don't want a hickey on my neck."

Hope grumbled slightly as she pulled away with a small pout on her face. "Fine… But after the Ball is over I want to show you how much I love you." Hope pressed another kiss to Daphne's smiling lips.

The auburn haired girl broke the kiss and pulled the taller girl into a gentle sway, resting her chin on Daphne's shoulder as the blonde hummed in pleasure. Daphne's arms wrapped around her lover's body in satisfaction at the promise Hope made for later tonight.

"You are aware that you will need to fill me in on what to do for a No-Maj Wedding right?" Daphne muttered into her Mate's copper hair taking in a deep breath of Hope's scent of the forest, lightning and blood.

"Always." Hope offered with a pleased smile. "Although it depends… Do you want to walk down the aisle or do you want me to do that?" Hope questioned cautiously.

Daphne looked off in the distance as she thought about Hope's query.

"Traditionally the bride has someone walk them down the aisle. Normally this would be the bride's father but if they aren't available, in my Aunt's case she was escorted by both my father and Uncle Elijah." Hope continued as she explained a classic wedding tradition as carefully as she could but Daphne looked pained at the thought of her father not being there for her wedding day.

Hope quickly butted her way into Daphne's thoughts before the girl could spiral into a hole of depression. "I can ask Freya to escort me." Daphne's head popped up to meet Hope's concerned sea-blue eyes.

"I've already procured Nic as our celebrant." Hope added with a proud grin.

Daphne chuckled heartily with a knowing smile on her face as she realised what Hope was doing. "How is it that you already have a celebrant but not a date?"

Hope shrugged cheekily as her sass decided to make an appearance. "What can I say? We don't do anything in order. I mean seriously… We are already married, yet we never had a first date before we were magically bonded for life. What is our normal?"

Daphne rolled her eyes before sighing out in defeat. "You may have a point there darling."

The couple had decided to get ready in separate rooms so they could actually attend the Yule Ball early since they had to host the event. Hope was wearing a simple but elegant black ballroom dress that looked like midnight silk wrapped snugly against each and every one of her curves showcasing her athletic build.

The dress had a surprising amount of leg room but Perenelle had informed Hope that she didn't need to get dresses with slits along the sides as dresses from the magical world have enchantments on it making it easy to manoeuvre.

Hope almost facepalmed when Nelle had announced that little detail wondering why the Immortal Healer never mentioned this before. Nelle had shrugged as she brushed off the question as she always thought that Hope was aware of the enchantment.

Hope's dress also had thin straps with the back cutout, allowing the Tribrid to flaunt her birthmark and Werewolf nature without needing to flash her golden eyes every time her wolf wants to come out to play or whenever she gets possessive over her Mate.

It had taken a long time for Hope to become comfortable flaunting her body or more specifically her birthmark in large crowds as her mother had always wanted her to keep it covered. The few times someone had seen her birthmark back in her universe the kids at school would make fun of her just like Pansy and Millicent had done when they caught Hope in a towel back in 4th year.

Even the Werewolves back in her universe would also shame her for her birthmark even though Hope was practically royalty for the wolves.

The only wolves that respected Hope were the ones from Hayley's pack, the Crescent wolves but even then, they didn't accept Hope as their Alpha even though it was her birthright. Hope never officially took the title of Alpha after her mother passed away instead she ran away to the Salvatore Boarding School rather than taking up responsibility for her pack.

Lizzie and Josie had managed to catch Hope in partial states of undress throughout the years as the twins had a bad habit of not knocking when they were children. To Hope's knowledge and impressive memory, the Tribrid can safely say that neither Lizzie or Josie had ever gossiped about Hope's birthmark.

It was Roman Sienna who had started the rumours about Hope's birthmark and no matter in which universe, kids can be uniquely painful and cruel.

Daphne on the other hand went more extravagant as she wore a deep emerald dress with intricate gold designs around her waist line and around the edging of the v-shaped neckline. At Daphne's shoulders shimmering gold sheer sleeves extended all the way down to her wrists. There was also a spiralling gold pattern around the base of the dress and larger design running up the right hand side of the emerald coloured Acromantula Silk.

The Slytherin Ice Queen magically styled her hair in a surprising messing updo that somehow managed to look elegant and sexy without even trying. Daphne checked her reflection in the mirror and quickly set her necklace in the centre of her breasts hanging respectfully above her cleavage.

Daphne noticed her sister standing in her doorway looking rather awkwards as she fidgeted with her cubicles shyly.

"What's wrong Stori?" Daphne called out from over her shoulder as she looked at her sister in a modest pearl white dress that came down to her knees.

Astoria jumped slightly at the sound and quickly hid her hands behind her back at being caught by her big sister. "N-Nothing."

Lady Greengrass quickly noticed her nervousness and moved towards her sister with a concerned expression on her face as she softly covered Astoria's shoulders and rubbed comforting circles into her sister's skin with her thumbs. "Stori. You can talk to me about anything at all. What's troubling you sis?"

Astoria bit at her lip as her eyes started to water as soon as Astoria's chocolate brown eyes looked up into Daphne ice-blue eyes so similar to their father's the younger girl fell into Daphne as she bawled her eyes out.

Daphne was shocked at the unexpected hug from her little sister and the tears streaming from Astoria. The newly appointed Lady Greengrass reacted instinctively in relation to her little sister and moved her arms to encircle the brunette in a tight hug. Daphne immediately started whispering sweet nothings in Astoria's hair as she stroked the Heiress's back in a soothing motion.

"Stori?" Daphne softly enquired in a small rest between sobs. "Can you tell me what is going on in that wonderfully brilliant mind of yours?"

"Sorry Daph." Astoria sniffed loudly as she pulled away from Daphne and frowned slightly at the wet patch she left on her sister's dress.

Daphne noticed that Stori was about to apologise for crying on her and ruining her dress so the Emrys Consort waved her hand murmuring a quick spell 'evanesco', vanishing the stain away. "It's alright little one. Nothing to stress about anymore."

Astoria hummed silently. "I was going through my normal routine before Yule."

Daphne understood quickly as she put the picture together in her mind. "You miss dad." Daphne mentioned with a sad smile.

Astoria could only bob her head ever so slightly as she tried to hold back her tears. Daphne's heart clenched painfully at the expression of her sister's face and pulled Stori into a loving embrace as the young Heiress clutched to Daphne like she was her saving grace.

"Let it out Stori. You don't have to hide your emotions with me. Take your time sweetheart." Daphne murmured as she did whatever she could to help her sister grieve.

Hope and Anna found the sisters almost 20 minutes later when it was time to leave so they could attend the Ball on time. The women waited outside of Daphne's room for a few minutes before Anna knocked softly on the doorframe gathering her daughter's attention.

The blonde widow looked over her daughters with a sad expression as she quietly asked. "Are you both okay?"

Astoria turned to her sister and smiled slightly before turning back to her mother. "Yeah. I'm okay now mum. I miss dad." The youngest Greengrass admitted.

Anna released a sad sigh. "I know sweetheart. I miss him too."

At the end of the day Hope and Daphne were exhausted as they were unaware of how much responsibility the host had to actually provide on the day. The girls were given a small reprieve during the night to dance for a short period before they were called away by other Lords and Ladies of the Neutral Faction.

Hope had cursed herself and Harry slightly when she realised just how many people they had to talk to. Apparently switching Factions was all the rage at the moment as members of the Light Faction changed their affiliation to Neutral meanwhile some of the Dark Houses were finally able to switch their affiliation without repercussion from the Death Eaters.

The Tribrid had also managed to snag Harry and Hermione for a few minutes as Hope wanted to make an impossible request from her friend. Hope had asked Harry to destroy the Cloak of Invisibility, the last of the Deathly Hallow pieces remaining in this world.

Harry had argued with Hope for a short while before the Tribrid was pulled off in another direction by another delegate from a new House in Neutral Faction.

Hope didn't see Harry again but Sirius had managed to speak to the Tribrid before he headed off at the end of the night. The jokester of the Black Family had informed Hope that Hermione had abdicated on the Tribrid's behalf as she convinced Harry that he doesn't need Death's Cloak anymore. It would only get him into more trouble than what The-Boy-Who-Lived could handle in the end and it would just end with him needing to destroy it later.

Hope groaned as she fell back onto her bed with a heavy thud. "Remind me never to join any form of politics in the future. It's not worth this mental hell."

Daphne chuckled under her breath at her Mate's annoyance. "I'll do my best, but darling, with your luck you'll end up being at the centre of attention no matter where you go."

The Tribrid grunted as she couldn't come back with a witty reply and she begrudgingly agreed with what Daphne said.

"Besides, as much as you hate politics, you can't deny that you play the role of leader remarkably well. You were basically born for this Hope and I will always be right next to you to help you whenever you need it." The blonde Ice Witch announced as she snapped her fingers removing their formal clothes and replacing them with a baggy t-shirt and some sweatpants.

Neither girl was overly concerned by the cold Winter air as Hope's Werewolf kept the Tribrid warm and cozy. Whereas for the Ice Witch, the Mikaelsons and Lizzie had a laugh when they heard Daphne say 'that the cold never bothered her' just a few days ago.

The icy blonde had rolled her eyes as she assumed that the time-travellers were making fun of her for something she said that must echo something that Elsa once said otherwise they wouldn't be laughing so much.

"Hopefully one day in the future you three will stop relating me to Elsa or alternatively you could just show me who you are always referring to through a bloody pensive memory." Daphne grumbled to herself as she crossed her arms over her chest in a huff.

"Damn it Hope! Stop converting Daphne into a Mikaelson." Lizzie exclaimed with a frustrated breath.

Hope, Freya and Daphne had looked at Lizzie with utter confusion in their eyes at the Siphoner's outburst. "You two keep teaching Daphne how to swear like a Mikaelson. Bloody this! Bloody that! Seriously, aren't you descended from Vikings? Why do you Mikaelsons use so much British slang? Because your family was doing this way before you actually lived here in Britain."

This just caused the Mikaelsons to giggle like a pack of hyenas while Daphne's eyebrows rose as she quickly realised what Lizzie was talking about and covered her mouth as she quietly laughed behind her hand.

Lizzie walked over to Hope and tried to swat the Tribrid over the back of her head but the other girl had Vamp-sped away from the irate Siphoner.

"Bloody idiots." Lizzie grumbled glared at the annoying auburn haired girl.

This insult by the blonde Siphoner caused the Ice Witch to lose her composure as she burst out into a full bellied laugh.

Lizzie looked betrayed for a moment before a look of apprehension crossed her face. "Dear God, now I'm doing it." Lizzie groaned as she rubbed at her temples in frustration.

"Dad would be so proud." The Siphoner sarcastically added as an afterthought.

Freya and Hope nearly choked when they heard Lizzie simultaneously make fun of her father while showing her loyalty to the Mikaelsons in general or more than likely to just Hope and possibly Freya.

"I think Ric would've rolled over in his grave if he heard you talking like that, love." Freya chuckled before apparating away to deal with the mental request from Myrddin.

Daphne shook herself out of her memory as she climbed into bed beside her personal Werewolf heater. "You know, you still owe me a screening of that movie with Elsa."

One of Hope's sea-blue eyes cracked open as she glanced at the blonde beside her. "I thought that we were going to wait until it's released in the cinema?"

Daphne shuffled forward until she was able to throw her arm over Hope's waist and slammed her head onto Hope's shoulder as she cuddled up to the auburn haired girl. Hope let out an exaggerated 'oof' when Daphne threw her head onto the Tribrid's shoulder.

"That's what you, Freya and Lizzie agreed to, but I'm sick and tired of being left out of the obvious running joke you have in regards to me. I want to know who Elsa is by the end of the year or I'll withhold sex for the entire next year." The blonde threatened with a cold stare on her face.

This caused Hope to shift her entire head to stare at the mass of blonde hair on her shoulder in surprise, silently wondering to herself if her Mate was being serious. Hope sighed as she kissed the top of her head. "Very well, love. I'll show you 'Frozen I, Frozen II and Frozen III' tomorrow."

Daphne grinned as she won this argument and hugged Hope in thanks. "Good. I hope it lives up to the hype that you three believe it does… Wait, there's 3 movies?"

"Yep. There goes about 6 hours on movies tomorrow." Hope remarked with a sly smirk knowing that Daphne hates sitting still for an extended period of time.

"..." Daphne pursed her lips together in anger as it was too late to recognise the trap she had unknowingly walked into. "Well played darling."

This time Hope was the one smirking as she snaked her arm under Daphne to pull her closer. "Good night, love."