Multiversal Legends: Hope Mikaelson, Malia Tate, Ciri, and Beyond

Chapter 9: Aftermath and Preparations

The battle with the Hollow had left the Mikaelson compound in a rare state of calm. The oppressive dark magic was gone, but the emotional ripples of what had transpired lingered. Adam sat in the compound's library, flipping through one of Freya's grimoires as his system updated him.

< SYSTEM MESSAGE: Hollow absorption progress: 50%. Current status: Stable. Remaining time: 5 days, 10 hours. Companion objective: Complete. Hope Mikaelson has agreed to join your journey. >

Adam leaned back in his chair, letting the book rest on his lap. He had achieved the critical milestone, but the next few days would require careful planning. He wanted to leave this world better than he found it, and there were still people here who needed his help.

The door creaked open, and Freya entered, carrying two mugs of tea. She handed one to Adam, her expression softer than he'd seen before.

"You've done more for this family in a few days than most people have in years," she said, sitting across from him.

Adam smiled, accepting the tea. "I'm just trying to help. You and your family deserve some peace after everything you've been through."

Freya studied him, her gaze piercing. "You're not just doing this for us, are you? You have your own reasons."

Adam nodded, appreciating her insight. "I do. But that doesn't mean I don't care about what happens here. I want to leave knowing that you're all safe and stronger than when I arrived."

Freya raised an eyebrow. "That's a tall order."

Adam grinned. "Good thing I'm good at tall orders."

Later, Adam found Hope in the courtyard, sitting by the fountain with Hayley. The sight of the two of them together, laughing softly, brought a rare warmth to the usually tense compound.

Hope noticed Adam and waved him over. "Come join us," she said, her tone lighter than it had been in days.

Adam approached, his smile easy. "What's the occasion?"

Hayley smirked. "It's called enjoying the calm after the storm. You should try it sometime."

"Sounds tempting," Adam replied. "But I've still got some loose ends to tie up before I can relax."

Hope tilted her head. "Like what?"

"Like making sure this family doesn't implode the moment I leave," Adam said, his tone half-teasing but sincere.

Hayley chuckled. "Good luck with that."

As the day went on, Adam spent time reinforcing the compound's wards with Freya, training with Elijah to refine his combat skills, and even sparring verbally with Klaus, who seemed to have begrudgingly accepted his presence.

By nightfall, Adam stood on the compound's balcony, looking out over the city. Hope joined him, her arms wrapped around herself against the cool breeze.

"So, what happens now?" she asked quietly.

Adam glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. "Now, I get everything in place for when I leave. But don't worry—you're coming with me, so you won't miss any of the fun."

Hope smiled faintly. "It's going to be weird, leaving this place behind. But maybe that's not a bad thing."

Adam nodded. "Change can be scary, but it's also where growth happens. You'll see."

< To Be Continued... >

PS. THIS FANFIC IS PARTIALLY CREATED BUY AI