The moon casts an eerie glow over the abandoned mansion, its broken windows letting in the cold night air. The scent of blood lingers, mixing with the faint perfume of aged wood and something darker—something unmistakably Katherine.

Elena’s heartbeat is erratic. You can hear it even before you reach the top of the grand staircase. When you finally step into the room, your worst fears are confirmed—there she is, bound to a chair, her face pale, her breathing shallow.

And standing beside her, smirking like the devil herself, is Katherine Pierce.

"Oh, look who finally showed up," Katherine drawls, tilting her head as her gaze sweeps over you. "The youngest Salvatore. The little ripper trying so hard to play hero."

Your hands curl into fists at your sides, fangs itching to descend. "Let her go, Katherine."

Katherine sighs, circling Elena like a predator toying with its prey. "You know, I’m actually a little offended," she muses. "Damon and Stefan, I expected. But you?" Her eyes darken. "Do you really think you can stop me?"

Your breath is steady, your resolve unshaken. "I don’t think. I know."

And then, you move.

Faster than a heartbeat, you lunge—tackling Katherine before she can react. The two of you crash against the floor, shattering the wooden boards beneath you. Katherine snarls, but you don’t give her a chance to recover—you strike, fists connecting with supernatural force.

"Impressive," she breathes, wiping a drop of blood from her lip, eyes gleaming with something almost proud. "You’ve got fight in you. But you’re forgetting one thing—"

In an instant, she flips you over, pinning you against the cold floor.

"I taught Damon and Stefan everything they know."

Her grip tightens around your throat, her smirk returning. "And, sweetheart, that means I know exactly how to break you."

Elena lets out a muffled cry from across the room, struggling against her binds.

You grit your teeth, eyes darkening with rage. Katherine might be strong. But you? You’re stronger than she thinks...