Elemental Goddess
By: Wizardtho
Chapter 57: Ares, Athena, Perses, and Eris
BPOV:
Everyone around me nodded at my 'show to put on' comment, but I thought for a minute about what my instincts were trying to tell me. "Jake, he'll test your connection with me by goading you. You can growl and bitch all you want, but you must not snap at him or hurt him in any way. When you and the pack surround him, you can't attack, no matter what he says. Take my cues or Jasper's only. If Peter has input, he'll give it to me or Jasper. You can listen to Peter at any other time, but in that field, you can not take an order from anyone other than Jasper or myself. It's a test of how we all work as a team, but if the alpha takes orders from anyone other than the goddess or her true mate, we're screwed. He'll know that Peter and Char are also mates of mine, but Major and the Goddess are the ultimate end. He's the Ares to my Athena, while Peter and Char are our Perses and Eris. Does that make sense?"
They all smiled widely, then Edward said, "After seeing what each of you can do during practice, I couldn't have put it better myself."
Jake's eyes lit up, so Edward explained, "In Greek mythology, Ares was the God of War. That's also a nickname that Major is well know as, by not only Peter and Char -who have seen him in action- but also many vampires around the world. He earned the nickname while he was second in command of Maria's army, in the Southern Vampire Wars. Both Ares and Major were known for being ruthless, savage, slaying any enemy in his path, as well as for the ultimate victory he obtained. Jasper is not that man anymore, but Major will be, to protect his mates and the ones he cares for. Don't get in his way on the battlefield.”
Jake’s eyes furrowed a bit right before Edward continued, “Athena was the Goddess of tactical warfare, skill, and wisdom. She was a Goddess of War, but approached it only for the purpose of justice. I have seen Bella -even before her goddess transformation- be wise to more than what is seen before her, finding tactical responses to the most puzzling things. She doesn't wish to kill, but will, to make right the wrongs of the world. I can't wait to watch a chess match between her and Major after her turning. But back to Perses and Eris. Perses was the God of Destruction, while Eris was the Goddess of Discord and Chaos. As far as whether the nicknames were ever given or related to Peter and Char, as they were Major, I don't know."
Char and Peter both looked at Jasper, then me before laughing. Jasper looked at me, explaining, "Darlin', you should have seen our faces when you made that analogy. You knew my nickname, but none of us ever told you what Char and Peter were come to be known as. Yes, Peter was the God of Destruction, and Char was the Goddess of Discord and Chaos. We never spoke of it once we escaped from Maria, though. Char was very good at causing fights amongst the enemies ranks, making chaos ensue for our advantage. Peter was the personification of destruction during a battle. He destroyed anything in his path. In the end, nothing was left but ash and fire. My question is, how did you know?"
I smiled, then thought for a second. "Let me see if I can say this the way I mean to. Your natural personality is totally opposite of the God of War, Jasper. As Edward said, he was ruthless, savage... he reveled in the bloodlust of a battle. You are the complete opposite. I figured that Peter and Char's personalities in battle were the same. The analogy was the closest I could come up with to the opposite of their natural personality. Peter being destruction is so far from his passionate and playful nature, that it seemed to fit. Same with Char being discord and chaos… so far away from her gentle, flowing nature. I feel the same about the analogy of myself. Before my Goddess transformation, I would have never likened myself to Athena, or any goddess for that matter. But knowing what lies deep inside me, the power and need for justice that the Goddess gives off, that was the one that stuck out for me."
Alice spoke up then, "They fit... she's right about that. The four of you will be an unstoppable force during battle. I just don't see how Edward or I fit into this. What role do we play in the battles that has us going with you to see the shaman?"
I knew a little, but I wasn't sure... maybe they could help me figure it out. "I know that at some point, you and Edward will both gain a nickname. I know what, but not how or when. Alice will become known as the Goddess of Prophecy, while Edward will become the Messenger of the Gods... otherwise known as Phoebe and Hermes. I can only figure they relate to your gifts of foresight and mind reading, being Alice telling us what will happen and Edward relaying messages of what he hears."
Jake barked, then Edward gasped. I immediately turned to them, "What? What is it, Edward?"
He looked at us in awe. "Jake says theirs, along with other tribes of shifters, have already begun to call us by these names. We haven't even been to a battle, yet we are already being named by people hundreds of miles away."
I giggled. I couldn't help it with the look on his face. "Well it's not a secret that Alice is a seer, or that you read minds. If someone had heard stories about Peter and Char being here, which doesn't surprise me in the least, it would get around that the seer -or Prophecy- and the mind reader -or Messenger- were with the gods and goddesses. My question is, Jake, how far do you think this has gone? Am I included in these word spreadings?"
Jake nodded, then Edward relayed, "Yes, the word spreading is that there is a gathering of gods and goddesses in the Northern U.S... that the Goddess Elemental is the Goddess of Skill, Wisdom, and Tactical Warfare. Rumor is that the God of War, God of Destruction, and Goddess of Discord and Chaos reign at her side, and that the Goddess of Prophecy and the Messenger of the Gods are never too far from them. Shit, this is too much. Slow down Jake. He thinks the rumor first got passed somewhere east of here. North Dakota seems to be the one coming to all the pack minds."
I heard myself mutter with my mates, "Shit," then I went on, "That's where the shaman is. What do you want to bet he's the one -or is connected to the one- who started the rumor? Fuck, I hope he knows what he's doing. This changes the timeline again."
I let out a huge whistle before yelling, "Everyone here fall in and listen up!"
They all gathered and sat, so I said, "We've just gained some new intel from the pack. It seems that most likely, a rumor got started in North Dakota that the God of War (I pointed to Jasper), the God of Destruction (I pointed to Peter), the Goddess of Discord and Chaos (I pointed to Char), and the Goddess of Skill, Wisdom, and Tactical Warfare (I pointed to myself) A.K.A the Goddess Elemental, were gathered in the Northern U.S with the Goddess of Prophecy and the Messenger of the Gods (I pointed to Alice and Edward). This means we are no longer a secret. DO NOT meet with anyone outside of the protection fields. Vampires and other shifter types may try to come, either to the rez or here to the house. Jake, I assume that the rumor includes the pack being protectors, right?"
He nodded, so I continued, "If people come to aid us, they will be able to pass through the protection barrier. Nothing will happen with the fields while I'm gone, but we still need to be on guard. Do not speak to anyone other than the rez citizens or our group until I get back. If a vampire tries to approach the house, or a shifter contacts the rez, and either gets through the barrier, welcome them. Only give the barest details. Do not tell them where we are or when we will be back. I think the shaman or someone close to him is the one who started the rumor, because that's where we go to meet him... North Dakota. I know for a fact he's on our side, but we could have done without being outed until after the first battle. I know this puts more stress on everyone, but it was inevitably going to happen sometime. I knew we would be gaining more help along the way, but I never expected it to be this soon. This is all the more reason for us to see the shaman. He must know something that he didn't reveal to Peter at their last meeting. Jake, what else do you know?"
Jake walked over to the woods, howling several times. Edward leaned in to kiss my temple, then whispered, "He's gaining the attention of the full pack... finding out what everyone knows. Give him a second, Sweetheart."
I nodded as I cupped his cheek with a smile. Jake came back over to lick my palm, then barked at Edward. Edward said, "Okay. The rumor did start in North Dakota. The gathering of gods and goddesses with Prophecy and Messenger, fighting for good, many shifter tribes have started rounding up their most skilled to travel to find us... as far away as a Florida tribe of shifters. No known movement from overseas yet. A lot of the tribes have not figured out that the wolves are in Washington, but they know the wolves are the shifters protecting the Goddess Elemental. None of our pack has let on that they know anything. All the tribes moving have tried to stay under the radar, especially when they see a vampire. None have attacked. They don't know who's friend or foe until they get word from the gods and goddesses. They know the goddess is mated to a vampire, protected by shifter and vampire alike, so they aren't attacking. He can't give us word on vampire movement, but the shifters are having to dodge a lot of them as they travel. He can't tell me anything more."
Okay. We can deal with this. "Alright, I need everyone to contact whoever is on your call list. Elders, if you have contacts in other tribes, see what you can find out about what shifters are traveling where. Act as if you just heard the rumor and are curious. See what people know. Unless they come right out and say they know it's our pack, don't tell them. They have to find their own way. Carlisle and the rest of you. Make calls to only who you feel you can trust. I know you have contacts in the Amazon, Egypt and Ireland, Carlisle. If you can trust them, see what you can find out about vampire movement through their regions toward the U.S. I want to know what's coming at us. Time wise, knowing fucking yesterday would be nice. We'll all be busy making calls and finding info, so I can pretty much assure that there won't be practice today. If any of you want to mock fight or practice between calls, you're more than welcome to use both the front and back yard, but stay away from Esme's plants or I'll kill you myself. She takes a lot of pride in her garden, and it relaxes me, so be warned. Everyone's dismissed. Please be careful. Make a list of who you call, as well as what was said. Thank you."
I took a huge breath, then let it out slowly. Jasper kissed my shoulder before whispering, "The Major couldn't have done better himself, Darlin'. You were born to be a leader. We all have complete faith in you. They wouldn't be here if they didn't. Look at them, Darlin'. Every vampire is on the phone already. The elders are planning who will call who, so that they don't all call the same people."
I nodded as I kissed him lightly, then walked over to Charlie. "Can I talk to you, Dad?"
He smiled brightly, then kissed Sue on the top of the head before standing up. As we walked back to my mates, I asked, "Can you call Sheriff Jackson to see about what's going on with the case? See if anyone else has disappeared? The more we know from all sides, the better."
He hugged me tightly, then whispered, "I'm so proud of you, Princess. You would have made a great Chief of Police. Better than me, even. Every person here snapped to it just as soon as you dismissed them. It was very humbling. You will be a great leader, Bella. That I would take to the bank faster than any of our vampire family could blink."
His words were what I needed, so I relaxed somewhat. "Thanks, Dad. I needed that. I'm still not used to telling people what to do, but they are all counting on me. While I'm telling them, I'm fine... it's after I'm done and there's silence. I get jittery, second guess what I said. How do I get past that? I can't be second guessing myself in battle."
Charlie kissed my forehead, then held both my shoulders, looking me straight in the eye. "Your mates wouldn't let you tell them something that would be wrong. If they felt you were leading them down the wrong path, they would be the first to speak up. You always let everyone ask questions or tell you their feelings on things, but you make the decision you feel is right for everyone in the end. Your mates, Bells. They are the key. Lean on them... let them council you, along with Alice and Edward.”
He shook his head, then continued, “I know I've never had a good opinion of him, but I've seen them with you lately. I see how he's really tried to work with the pack, tried to help you any way he could. Alice has the girls working every spare moment on special clothes for you, because of what you need as far as the goddess and the babies. I don't think there's a lot of backless maternity clothes out there. I think it gives them time to just let go, concentrate on something good for a while. You needed the time with your mates that you had. Time to just let everything else go, to just be. Sue and I are both really proud of the woman you've become, goddess or no goddess. I hope you know that, Princess."
I gave him a beaming smile, "I do, Dad. I meant what I said to Sue, you know. I didn't even have to think of the words. The feeling was there, so the words just flowed. It's sad in a way, but Sue's more of a mother figure to me than Mom ever was. Don't get me wrong, I love Mom, but I could never go to her for guidance on anything. You know I went to Sue, asking for help on how to tell you all of this?"
He nodded, "She told me. I'm glad you feel you can talk to her. She means so much to me."
I laughed, "I know, Dad. I see it written all over your face when just her name is mentioned. It's a good thing. Jasper feels it, you know. He says it's pure... that it's right for both of you. Trust in your feelings for her."
He nodded, then we both sat down with my mates, Alice, Edward, and Jake. I rubbed Jake's muzzle, then Charlie held his hand out to Edward as he kissed Alice's cheek. "Alice, Edward. How are you both?"
Alice giggled while hugging Charlie, "Fine. Just trying to keep your Princess calm for a while. It doesn't seem to be working. We're getting hit from all sides, aren't we?"
They broke the hug as Charlie said, "Well, just stick close to her and her mates, both of you. They'll be needing you. I know now that you both care for them. I've seen the way you've been with them lately, and Edward? I'm sorry for not ever trusting you."
Edward responded immediately, "Charlie, there's nothing to apologize for. I dated your daughter, but not to be with her... to hold the place until she could be with Jasper. Things were all messed up. Alice and I both made mistakes. We're just happy that we could still be a significant part of their lives now, after everything. We've all made our peace, and the past is the past."
Charlie smiled, "Well said."
I finished eating the rest of my breakfast as Carlisle came over to sit at my side. "Bella, Dear. Would you mind appeasing the doctor in me for a moment? I don't like all the stress you're under, and just want to make sure you three are all doing well."
I nodded as I patted his leg, "Sure, Carlisle. I have no problem with a mini check-up. Can we do it here? I really don't feel like moving."
He nodded. "I just want to listen to you and the babies for a minute, then see if I can get them to move a bit."
He held his fingers to the inside of my elbow for a second, asking me to take slow deep breaths. I did, then he smiled, "Your vitals all seem fine, now let's see about my grandbabies. Lift your shirt to your ribs and fold down your waist for me, please."
I did so as I leaned back into Jasper. Carlisle placed his hands on my tummy before closing his eyes. He grabbed his stethoscope from his neck, put it on, then placed it where his one hand was. He listened for a second, smiled, then moved the stethoscope to another area. He smiled again, saying, "The heartbeats are strong, not too fast or slow. Right where they should be."
He placed his hands back on my tummy, so I whispered, "Move for Papa, my beautiful babies. Let him know you're okay."
They both moved, so I smiled. Carlisle's eyes lit up as he commented, "They listened to you. Do they do that often?"
I nodded, "It's part of the bond. I can send them a feeling of movement when I talk to them, then they move. Watch..."
I closed my eyes, "Play with Papa, my angels. Show Papa how strong you are."
They both moved again as I opened my eyes, so Carlisle smiled. "Amazing. Such a wonder.. Okay, the doctor and Papa in me are both appeased. You can right yourself now, Dear."
I giggled as I told Charlie to come over. I took his hand, placing it over the babies. "Say 'Hi' to Grandpa Charlie, boys. He's going to teach you to fish as well as he does."
The babies fluttered, causing Charlie to gasp. He looked at me with tears in his eyes, "Princess, that's such a miracle... to feel them moving. I can't wait to meet my strong little grandsons."
He kissed my forehead, caressed my tummy, then ran over to Sue at light speed.
Alice touched my tummy, then the babies automatically moved. I smiled at her. "You should start thinking of names, Sweetie. That way you won't have to call them babies or twins."
She grabbed Edward's hand, placing it on my tummy. The twins moved automatically again. He smiled brightly, "Ali's right, you know."
He caressed my tummy, then held Alice's hand. "I know, but I think we should wait until we get to Texas and get settled in. I don't want naming the babies to be shadowed by a battle looming so close. It just feels wrong, you know?"
They both nodded, then Jasper placed his hands over my tummy, caressing the whole uncovered space from my ribs to just above my pelvic bone. It felt so good. I closed my eyes with a hum, making Alice giggle, "I think someone's missing her massages."
Edward responded, "You haven't been getting them lately? Oh, Sweetheart. You should be sure to keep up with them and your Yoga. You'll feel a lot better throughout your pregnancy if you keep up with those. I should know, I've been a licensed massage therapist several times, now."
I raised an eyebrow at him, so he laughed, "Yes, I know. Not what you would have thought, but it keeps the hands flexible, and I was helping people."
I chuckled, then Jasper breathed in my ear, "Would you like Edward to take over your massages, Darlin'?"
My breathing hitched as I looked at him questioningly. He nodded, "I think it would be a good idea. You would be right with us in case it got heavy, plus it would make the both of you feel more connected. We can have Alice go over sketches with you or just talk while Edward gives you your massage."
I gave him a 'Hmm' look, then turned to Edward and Alice. I crooked my finger at both of them as I sat up. They brought their ears close to my lips, so I offered, "Jasper just suggested that you take over my massages, Edward. We'd all be at the cabin together in case it got heated, Ali can show me sketches or whatever, and we can all go over our wishes while your hands are busy. Can we try it out tonight to see how it works?"
They both nodded before backing away. Edward asked after a minute or two, "How often were you getting your massages, Sweetheart?"
After swallowing a sip of smoothie, I said, "I was getting them every night as part of relaxing for the night. It's been hard to find time lately, though. We have all of the oils and scents needed. I guess we'll have to find..."
Alice cut in, smiling, "No need. I knew your mates were giving you massages, so I already ordered a pregnancy massage table. It will be delivered at our call, once we get settled in Texas. You should be able to lay comfortably on your tummy still for a while, but if it becomes an issue before we get to Texas, your massage can be done on your side, right Edward?"
He smiled, "Yes, on your belly on a soft surface is fine for now. On your side or a pregnancy table as soon as laying on your belly becomes the slightest bit uncomfortable. Don't push laying on your belly. It won't do you or the twins any good."
"Thanks, guys. It would be nice to start getting them again. They always made me feel so relaxed... between the scents and the touch, I felt like jello when they were done."
Edward laughed, "That's a good thing, Bella. If you don't feel like jello when the massage is over, it wasn't given right."
I raised an eyebrow while mumbling into my smoothie, "I remember one massage that didn't turn me into Jello... it was what came after that did."
Everyone around me laughed, then Alice said in a pray tell manner, "Really?! Well, then. Change of subject. Edward and I need to make some phone calls, so we'll catch up with you in a little bit, okay?"
I nodded, so they both kissed my temple before rushing into the house. I leaned back into Jasper as Char and Peter scooted down on either side of us. They rested their heads on Jasper's hips, then stroked my tummy with him. Soon Carlisle came over with Emse to say, "I've gotten calls out to Romania, Egypt, a few European nomads, Ireland, as well as the Amazon. I've gotten calls back from Ireland, Romania, and one mated pair of European nomads so far. All are saying the same thing. They all have heard the rumors, and are starting to make their way to the U.S. Romania is sending some of their guards, as they wish to not give the Volturi an opening on them until it is necessary. They know it's us. Stefan's first words to me when I called, were 'I was waiting to hear from you, Old Friend. Tell me she is safe.' I almost hung up the phone, he took me so off guard. I remembered all the problems between Romania and the Volturi. Instinct told me to say that you were indeed safe. That broke the conversation wide open, then he said that he was sending a few of their guard to help with protection... that 'she' and her closest could put them through any test required to prove the honest intention of them. They should be here in a week. That should put them here shortly after you get back.”
I nodded for Carlisle to continue, so he said, “Egypt has a reason to want the Volturi to fall. They've had to keep a low profile, because one of their coven is gifted, making him a prize for the Volturi. They'll be moving around a lot, but said that they won't make the choice to come to the U.S. until they know more. They want to make sure that this group forming will be battling for good, going against the Volturi's corrupt leadership. The European mates and the Irish coven have both heard of the Seattle mess. It seems that all of the missing or dead in Seattle has made international news. If this isn't taken care of soon, the Volturi will step in. They’ll come themselves, to figure out who’s making the mess. That won't be good for us, as you well know. The Europeans didn't come out to say they knew it was us, but said they'd stop in on the way to finding out where the gathering is, see if the group forming is going to go against the Seattle ring leaders. I told them to keep me updated, as Seattle was way too close for comfort. It was a tricky conversation, because Charles can tell if someone is less than truthful. That's his gift. The Irish said similar, but since Maggie is a true lie detector, I couldn't get away with sidestepping or dancing around it. Maggie asked me straight out if I knew who the gathering was. I couldn't lie to her and break that friendship.”
I winced, but Carlisle said seriously, “Before she asked, she stated plainly that they were coming for a friendly visit. I knew she meant that they were on their way here for the gathering. Once she confirmed it was us, she said that she had interesting news from a friend about a collection of priceless jewels. I asked her if she could get me in touch with the friend, as I was in the market for an antique piece for Esme. She said when they came for the visit, she would get her friend on the phone, to see if we could find something to my liking. We don't know if anyone is tracing our phones, so it's best to work in code. We should be well on our way, if all of them pass the protection field. Has anyone else checked in with you yet?"
I shook my head, "No, but I asked Charlie to put in a call to the Seattle sheriff he was working with on the case. I guess we're going to be a little crowded, huh? We need to think about more cabins or cottages for the Texas property, once we find out about how many are sticking with us. Especially with shifters and vampires making their way here. There's just so much to think about."
Esme interjected as she heard my last comment, saying softly, "Bella, Dear. Would you mind if I looked for cabin and cottage kits for you? I don't mind at all. With everything on your plate right now, you aren't getting enough rest. You may not sleep anymore, but you still need rest, Dear."
I let a breath out in relief, "Oh, Esme. That would be such a big help. We need two bedroom kits for the ones already here. Then we need to think of the covens possibly coming, the other shifters, as well as the nomads. I'd say to keep covens together as much as possible, but make sure mated pairs have priority.”
I knew I had her full attention, so I continued, “Keep to two and three bedroom cabins or cottages, but try to find big bunk houses for the shifter tribes. I don't know the size of the animals we are talking about, but you see the size of the wolves. I don't want a house falling down if someone phases quickly inside. Once everyone gets here, we should have a better idea, but it won't hurt to get a jump on things. Charlie and Sue have decided to take a two bedroom cottage also, so that there will be room for a nursery. Theirs will be going near the main house, so it can be a farmhouse style, if you find one that fits the bill. I'd like to have them not all be the same, but I don't know how that will work. Anything you can come up with would be appreciated."
She smiled, squeezed my hand gently, then rushed into the house. I sighed as Jasper kissed my shoulder, "What's on your mind, Darlin'?"
I sighed again, saying, "I just don't understand why the shaman wouldn't tell us before he did something like that. I have so many questions, yet absolutely no answers. We're going to have shifters and vampires alike, all flocking here, drawing attention to us. I wanted to be out of Washington before that happened. The pack already has so many young ones. More vampires coming so close to the rez will force more kids to change. How young will they be? When does it stop?"
Jasper whispered sadly, "I don't know, Darlin'. I don't know. We need to prepare the elders and pack that most of the vampires coming will have red eyes. What do we do about feeding? I won't let them hunt in Washington, but do we ask them to respect our way… to try to feed from animals while here? Or do we send them together in groups to hunt out of state?"
I shook my head, "I don't know. I guess if we send them in groups and ask them not to hunt innocents, we might get away with it. The pack still won't be too happy, plus I'm sure everyone is already getting antsy. Maybe we should get everyone to do a little practicing, to make them feel like they're working toward something. Sitting here's starting to drive me crazy. I need to do something, so I know they have to feel the same way."
Jasper whispered, "That's a perfect idea, Darlin'. It wouldn't hurt to test what you can do now before your turning. Are you up for it?"
I nodded excitedly. "Alright, let's get a space cleared to work in."
Everyone around me nodded at my 'show to put on' comment, but I thought for a minute about what my instincts were trying to tell me. "Jake, he'll test your connection with me by goading you. You can growl and bitch all you want, but you must not snap at him or hurt him in any way. When you and the pack surround him, you can't attack, no matter what he says. Take my cues or Jasper's only. If Peter has input, he'll give it to me or Jasper. You can listen to Peter at any other time, but in that field, you can not take an order from anyone other than Jasper or myself. It's a test of how we all work as a team, but if the alpha takes orders from anyone other than the goddess or her true mate, we're screwed. He'll know that Peter and Char are also mates of mine, but Major and the Goddess are the ultimate end. He's the Ares to my Athena, while Peter and Char are our Perses and Eris. Does that make sense?"
They all smiled widely, then Edward said, "After seeing what each of you can do during practice, I couldn't have put it better myself."
Jake's eyes lit up, so Edward explained, "In Greek mythology, Ares was the God of War. That's also a nickname that Major is well know as, by not only Peter and Char -who have seen him in action- but also many vampires around the world. He earned the nickname while he was second in command of Maria's army, in the Southern Vampire Wars. Both Ares and Major were known for being ruthless, savage, slaying any enemy in his path, as well as for the ultimate victory he obtained. Jasper is not that man anymore, but Major will be, to protect his mates and the ones he cares for. Don't get in his way on the battlefield.”
Jake’s eyes furrowed a bit right before Edward continued, “Athena was the Goddess of tactical warfare, skill, and wisdom. She was a Goddess of War, but approached it only for the purpose of justice. I have seen Bella -even before her goddess transformation- be wise to more than what is seen before her, finding tactical responses to the most puzzling things. She doesn't wish to kill, but will, to make right the wrongs of the world. I can't wait to watch a chess match between her and Major after her turning. But back to Perses and Eris. Perses was the God of Destruction, while Eris was the Goddess of Discord and Chaos. As far as whether the nicknames were ever given or related to Peter and Char, as they were Major, I don't know."
Char and Peter both looked at Jasper, then me before laughing. Jasper looked at me, explaining, "Darlin', you should have seen our faces when you made that analogy. You knew my nickname, but none of us ever told you what Char and Peter were come to be known as. Yes, Peter was the God of Destruction, and Char was the Goddess of Discord and Chaos. We never spoke of it once we escaped from Maria, though. Char was very good at causing fights amongst the enemies ranks, making chaos ensue for our advantage. Peter was the personification of destruction during a battle. He destroyed anything in his path. In the end, nothing was left but ash and fire. My question is, how did you know?"
I smiled, then thought for a second. "Let me see if I can say this the way I mean to. Your natural personality is totally opposite of the God of War, Jasper. As Edward said, he was ruthless, savage... he reveled in the bloodlust of a battle. You are the complete opposite. I figured that Peter and Char's personalities in battle were the same. The analogy was the closest I could come up with to the opposite of their natural personality. Peter being destruction is so far from his passionate and playful nature, that it seemed to fit. Same with Char being discord and chaos… so far away from her gentle, flowing nature. I feel the same about the analogy of myself. Before my Goddess transformation, I would have never likened myself to Athena, or any goddess for that matter. But knowing what lies deep inside me, the power and need for justice that the Goddess gives off, that was the one that stuck out for me."
Alice spoke up then, "They fit... she's right about that. The four of you will be an unstoppable force during battle. I just don't see how Edward or I fit into this. What role do we play in the battles that has us going with you to see the shaman?"
I knew a little, but I wasn't sure... maybe they could help me figure it out. "I know that at some point, you and Edward will both gain a nickname. I know what, but not how or when. Alice will become known as the Goddess of Prophecy, while Edward will become the Messenger of the Gods... otherwise known as Phoebe and Hermes. I can only figure they relate to your gifts of foresight and mind reading, being Alice telling us what will happen and Edward relaying messages of what he hears."
Jake barked, then Edward gasped. I immediately turned to them, "What? What is it, Edward?"
He looked at us in awe. "Jake says theirs, along with other tribes of shifters, have already begun to call us by these names. We haven't even been to a battle, yet we are already being named by people hundreds of miles away."
I giggled. I couldn't help it with the look on his face. "Well it's not a secret that Alice is a seer, or that you read minds. If someone had heard stories about Peter and Char being here, which doesn't surprise me in the least, it would get around that the seer -or Prophecy- and the mind reader -or Messenger- were with the gods and goddesses. My question is, Jake, how far do you think this has gone? Am I included in these word spreadings?"
Jake nodded, then Edward relayed, "Yes, the word spreading is that there is a gathering of gods and goddesses in the Northern U.S... that the Goddess Elemental is the Goddess of Skill, Wisdom, and Tactical Warfare. Rumor is that the God of War, God of Destruction, and Goddess of Discord and Chaos reign at her side, and that the Goddess of Prophecy and the Messenger of the Gods are never too far from them. Shit, this is too much. Slow down Jake. He thinks the rumor first got passed somewhere east of here. North Dakota seems to be the one coming to all the pack minds."
I heard myself mutter with my mates, "Shit," then I went on, "That's where the shaman is. What do you want to bet he's the one -or is connected to the one- who started the rumor? Fuck, I hope he knows what he's doing. This changes the timeline again."
I let out a huge whistle before yelling, "Everyone here fall in and listen up!"
They all gathered and sat, so I said, "We've just gained some new intel from the pack. It seems that most likely, a rumor got started in North Dakota that the God of War (I pointed to Jasper), the God of Destruction (I pointed to Peter), the Goddess of Discord and Chaos (I pointed to Char), and the Goddess of Skill, Wisdom, and Tactical Warfare (I pointed to myself) A.K.A the Goddess Elemental, were gathered in the Northern U.S with the Goddess of Prophecy and the Messenger of the Gods (I pointed to Alice and Edward). This means we are no longer a secret. DO NOT meet with anyone outside of the protection fields. Vampires and other shifter types may try to come, either to the rez or here to the house. Jake, I assume that the rumor includes the pack being protectors, right?"
He nodded, so I continued, "If people come to aid us, they will be able to pass through the protection barrier. Nothing will happen with the fields while I'm gone, but we still need to be on guard. Do not speak to anyone other than the rez citizens or our group until I get back. If a vampire tries to approach the house, or a shifter contacts the rez, and either gets through the barrier, welcome them. Only give the barest details. Do not tell them where we are or when we will be back. I think the shaman or someone close to him is the one who started the rumor, because that's where we go to meet him... North Dakota. I know for a fact he's on our side, but we could have done without being outed until after the first battle. I know this puts more stress on everyone, but it was inevitably going to happen sometime. I knew we would be gaining more help along the way, but I never expected it to be this soon. This is all the more reason for us to see the shaman. He must know something that he didn't reveal to Peter at their last meeting. Jake, what else do you know?"
Jake walked over to the woods, howling several times. Edward leaned in to kiss my temple, then whispered, "He's gaining the attention of the full pack... finding out what everyone knows. Give him a second, Sweetheart."
I nodded as I cupped his cheek with a smile. Jake came back over to lick my palm, then barked at Edward. Edward said, "Okay. The rumor did start in North Dakota. The gathering of gods and goddesses with Prophecy and Messenger, fighting for good, many shifter tribes have started rounding up their most skilled to travel to find us... as far away as a Florida tribe of shifters. No known movement from overseas yet. A lot of the tribes have not figured out that the wolves are in Washington, but they know the wolves are the shifters protecting the Goddess Elemental. None of our pack has let on that they know anything. All the tribes moving have tried to stay under the radar, especially when they see a vampire. None have attacked. They don't know who's friend or foe until they get word from the gods and goddesses. They know the goddess is mated to a vampire, protected by shifter and vampire alike, so they aren't attacking. He can't give us word on vampire movement, but the shifters are having to dodge a lot of them as they travel. He can't tell me anything more."
Okay. We can deal with this. "Alright, I need everyone to contact whoever is on your call list. Elders, if you have contacts in other tribes, see what you can find out about what shifters are traveling where. Act as if you just heard the rumor and are curious. See what people know. Unless they come right out and say they know it's our pack, don't tell them. They have to find their own way. Carlisle and the rest of you. Make calls to only who you feel you can trust. I know you have contacts in the Amazon, Egypt and Ireland, Carlisle. If you can trust them, see what you can find out about vampire movement through their regions toward the U.S. I want to know what's coming at us. Time wise, knowing fucking yesterday would be nice. We'll all be busy making calls and finding info, so I can pretty much assure that there won't be practice today. If any of you want to mock fight or practice between calls, you're more than welcome to use both the front and back yard, but stay away from Esme's plants or I'll kill you myself. She takes a lot of pride in her garden, and it relaxes me, so be warned. Everyone's dismissed. Please be careful. Make a list of who you call, as well as what was said. Thank you."
I took a huge breath, then let it out slowly. Jasper kissed my shoulder before whispering, "The Major couldn't have done better himself, Darlin'. You were born to be a leader. We all have complete faith in you. They wouldn't be here if they didn't. Look at them, Darlin'. Every vampire is on the phone already. The elders are planning who will call who, so that they don't all call the same people."
I nodded as I kissed him lightly, then walked over to Charlie. "Can I talk to you, Dad?"
He smiled brightly, then kissed Sue on the top of the head before standing up. As we walked back to my mates, I asked, "Can you call Sheriff Jackson to see about what's going on with the case? See if anyone else has disappeared? The more we know from all sides, the better."
He hugged me tightly, then whispered, "I'm so proud of you, Princess. You would have made a great Chief of Police. Better than me, even. Every person here snapped to it just as soon as you dismissed them. It was very humbling. You will be a great leader, Bella. That I would take to the bank faster than any of our vampire family could blink."
His words were what I needed, so I relaxed somewhat. "Thanks, Dad. I needed that. I'm still not used to telling people what to do, but they are all counting on me. While I'm telling them, I'm fine... it's after I'm done and there's silence. I get jittery, second guess what I said. How do I get past that? I can't be second guessing myself in battle."
Charlie kissed my forehead, then held both my shoulders, looking me straight in the eye. "Your mates wouldn't let you tell them something that would be wrong. If they felt you were leading them down the wrong path, they would be the first to speak up. You always let everyone ask questions or tell you their feelings on things, but you make the decision you feel is right for everyone in the end. Your mates, Bells. They are the key. Lean on them... let them council you, along with Alice and Edward.”
He shook his head, then continued, “I know I've never had a good opinion of him, but I've seen them with you lately. I see how he's really tried to work with the pack, tried to help you any way he could. Alice has the girls working every spare moment on special clothes for you, because of what you need as far as the goddess and the babies. I don't think there's a lot of backless maternity clothes out there. I think it gives them time to just let go, concentrate on something good for a while. You needed the time with your mates that you had. Time to just let everything else go, to just be. Sue and I are both really proud of the woman you've become, goddess or no goddess. I hope you know that, Princess."
I gave him a beaming smile, "I do, Dad. I meant what I said to Sue, you know. I didn't even have to think of the words. The feeling was there, so the words just flowed. It's sad in a way, but Sue's more of a mother figure to me than Mom ever was. Don't get me wrong, I love Mom, but I could never go to her for guidance on anything. You know I went to Sue, asking for help on how to tell you all of this?"
He nodded, "She told me. I'm glad you feel you can talk to her. She means so much to me."
I laughed, "I know, Dad. I see it written all over your face when just her name is mentioned. It's a good thing. Jasper feels it, you know. He says it's pure... that it's right for both of you. Trust in your feelings for her."
He nodded, then we both sat down with my mates, Alice, Edward, and Jake. I rubbed Jake's muzzle, then Charlie held his hand out to Edward as he kissed Alice's cheek. "Alice, Edward. How are you both?"
Alice giggled while hugging Charlie, "Fine. Just trying to keep your Princess calm for a while. It doesn't seem to be working. We're getting hit from all sides, aren't we?"
They broke the hug as Charlie said, "Well, just stick close to her and her mates, both of you. They'll be needing you. I know now that you both care for them. I've seen the way you've been with them lately, and Edward? I'm sorry for not ever trusting you."
Edward responded immediately, "Charlie, there's nothing to apologize for. I dated your daughter, but not to be with her... to hold the place until she could be with Jasper. Things were all messed up. Alice and I both made mistakes. We're just happy that we could still be a significant part of their lives now, after everything. We've all made our peace, and the past is the past."
Charlie smiled, "Well said."
I finished eating the rest of my breakfast as Carlisle came over to sit at my side. "Bella, Dear. Would you mind appeasing the doctor in me for a moment? I don't like all the stress you're under, and just want to make sure you three are all doing well."
I nodded as I patted his leg, "Sure, Carlisle. I have no problem with a mini check-up. Can we do it here? I really don't feel like moving."
He nodded. "I just want to listen to you and the babies for a minute, then see if I can get them to move a bit."
He held his fingers to the inside of my elbow for a second, asking me to take slow deep breaths. I did, then he smiled, "Your vitals all seem fine, now let's see about my grandbabies. Lift your shirt to your ribs and fold down your waist for me, please."
I did so as I leaned back into Jasper. Carlisle placed his hands on my tummy before closing his eyes. He grabbed his stethoscope from his neck, put it on, then placed it where his one hand was. He listened for a second, smiled, then moved the stethoscope to another area. He smiled again, saying, "The heartbeats are strong, not too fast or slow. Right where they should be."
He placed his hands back on my tummy, so I whispered, "Move for Papa, my beautiful babies. Let him know you're okay."
They both moved, so I smiled. Carlisle's eyes lit up as he commented, "They listened to you. Do they do that often?"
I nodded, "It's part of the bond. I can send them a feeling of movement when I talk to them, then they move. Watch..."
I closed my eyes, "Play with Papa, my angels. Show Papa how strong you are."
They both moved again as I opened my eyes, so Carlisle smiled. "Amazing. Such a wonder.. Okay, the doctor and Papa in me are both appeased. You can right yourself now, Dear."
I giggled as I told Charlie to come over. I took his hand, placing it over the babies. "Say 'Hi' to Grandpa Charlie, boys. He's going to teach you to fish as well as he does."
The babies fluttered, causing Charlie to gasp. He looked at me with tears in his eyes, "Princess, that's such a miracle... to feel them moving. I can't wait to meet my strong little grandsons."
He kissed my forehead, caressed my tummy, then ran over to Sue at light speed.
Alice touched my tummy, then the babies automatically moved. I smiled at her. "You should start thinking of names, Sweetie. That way you won't have to call them babies or twins."
She grabbed Edward's hand, placing it on my tummy. The twins moved automatically again. He smiled brightly, "Ali's right, you know."
He caressed my tummy, then held Alice's hand. "I know, but I think we should wait until we get to Texas and get settled in. I don't want naming the babies to be shadowed by a battle looming so close. It just feels wrong, you know?"
They both nodded, then Jasper placed his hands over my tummy, caressing the whole uncovered space from my ribs to just above my pelvic bone. It felt so good. I closed my eyes with a hum, making Alice giggle, "I think someone's missing her massages."
Edward responded, "You haven't been getting them lately? Oh, Sweetheart. You should be sure to keep up with them and your Yoga. You'll feel a lot better throughout your pregnancy if you keep up with those. I should know, I've been a licensed massage therapist several times, now."
I raised an eyebrow at him, so he laughed, "Yes, I know. Not what you would have thought, but it keeps the hands flexible, and I was helping people."
I chuckled, then Jasper breathed in my ear, "Would you like Edward to take over your massages, Darlin'?"
My breathing hitched as I looked at him questioningly. He nodded, "I think it would be a good idea. You would be right with us in case it got heavy, plus it would make the both of you feel more connected. We can have Alice go over sketches with you or just talk while Edward gives you your massage."
I gave him a 'Hmm' look, then turned to Edward and Alice. I crooked my finger at both of them as I sat up. They brought their ears close to my lips, so I offered, "Jasper just suggested that you take over my massages, Edward. We'd all be at the cabin together in case it got heated, Ali can show me sketches or whatever, and we can all go over our wishes while your hands are busy. Can we try it out tonight to see how it works?"
They both nodded before backing away. Edward asked after a minute or two, "How often were you getting your massages, Sweetheart?"
After swallowing a sip of smoothie, I said, "I was getting them every night as part of relaxing for the night. It's been hard to find time lately, though. We have all of the oils and scents needed. I guess we'll have to find..."
Alice cut in, smiling, "No need. I knew your mates were giving you massages, so I already ordered a pregnancy massage table. It will be delivered at our call, once we get settled in Texas. You should be able to lay comfortably on your tummy still for a while, but if it becomes an issue before we get to Texas, your massage can be done on your side, right Edward?"
He smiled, "Yes, on your belly on a soft surface is fine for now. On your side or a pregnancy table as soon as laying on your belly becomes the slightest bit uncomfortable. Don't push laying on your belly. It won't do you or the twins any good."
"Thanks, guys. It would be nice to start getting them again. They always made me feel so relaxed... between the scents and the touch, I felt like jello when they were done."
Edward laughed, "That's a good thing, Bella. If you don't feel like jello when the massage is over, it wasn't given right."
I raised an eyebrow while mumbling into my smoothie, "I remember one massage that didn't turn me into Jello... it was what came after that did."
Everyone around me laughed, then Alice said in a pray tell manner, "Really?! Well, then. Change of subject. Edward and I need to make some phone calls, so we'll catch up with you in a little bit, okay?"
I nodded, so they both kissed my temple before rushing into the house. I leaned back into Jasper as Char and Peter scooted down on either side of us. They rested their heads on Jasper's hips, then stroked my tummy with him. Soon Carlisle came over with Emse to say, "I've gotten calls out to Romania, Egypt, a few European nomads, Ireland, as well as the Amazon. I've gotten calls back from Ireland, Romania, and one mated pair of European nomads so far. All are saying the same thing. They all have heard the rumors, and are starting to make their way to the U.S. Romania is sending some of their guards, as they wish to not give the Volturi an opening on them until it is necessary. They know it's us. Stefan's first words to me when I called, were 'I was waiting to hear from you, Old Friend. Tell me she is safe.' I almost hung up the phone, he took me so off guard. I remembered all the problems between Romania and the Volturi. Instinct told me to say that you were indeed safe. That broke the conversation wide open, then he said that he was sending a few of their guard to help with protection... that 'she' and her closest could put them through any test required to prove the honest intention of them. They should be here in a week. That should put them here shortly after you get back.”
I nodded for Carlisle to continue, so he said, “Egypt has a reason to want the Volturi to fall. They've had to keep a low profile, because one of their coven is gifted, making him a prize for the Volturi. They'll be moving around a lot, but said that they won't make the choice to come to the U.S. until they know more. They want to make sure that this group forming will be battling for good, going against the Volturi's corrupt leadership. The European mates and the Irish coven have both heard of the Seattle mess. It seems that all of the missing or dead in Seattle has made international news. If this isn't taken care of soon, the Volturi will step in. They’ll come themselves, to figure out who’s making the mess. That won't be good for us, as you well know. The Europeans didn't come out to say they knew it was us, but said they'd stop in on the way to finding out where the gathering is, see if the group forming is going to go against the Seattle ring leaders. I told them to keep me updated, as Seattle was way too close for comfort. It was a tricky conversation, because Charles can tell if someone is less than truthful. That's his gift. The Irish said similar, but since Maggie is a true lie detector, I couldn't get away with sidestepping or dancing around it. Maggie asked me straight out if I knew who the gathering was. I couldn't lie to her and break that friendship.”
I winced, but Carlisle said seriously, “Before she asked, she stated plainly that they were coming for a friendly visit. I knew she meant that they were on their way here for the gathering. Once she confirmed it was us, she said that she had interesting news from a friend about a collection of priceless jewels. I asked her if she could get me in touch with the friend, as I was in the market for an antique piece for Esme. She said when they came for the visit, she would get her friend on the phone, to see if we could find something to my liking. We don't know if anyone is tracing our phones, so it's best to work in code. We should be well on our way, if all of them pass the protection field. Has anyone else checked in with you yet?"
I shook my head, "No, but I asked Charlie to put in a call to the Seattle sheriff he was working with on the case. I guess we're going to be a little crowded, huh? We need to think about more cabins or cottages for the Texas property, once we find out about how many are sticking with us. Especially with shifters and vampires making their way here. There's just so much to think about."
Esme interjected as she heard my last comment, saying softly, "Bella, Dear. Would you mind if I looked for cabin and cottage kits for you? I don't mind at all. With everything on your plate right now, you aren't getting enough rest. You may not sleep anymore, but you still need rest, Dear."
I let a breath out in relief, "Oh, Esme. That would be such a big help. We need two bedroom kits for the ones already here. Then we need to think of the covens possibly coming, the other shifters, as well as the nomads. I'd say to keep covens together as much as possible, but make sure mated pairs have priority.”
I knew I had her full attention, so I continued, “Keep to two and three bedroom cabins or cottages, but try to find big bunk houses for the shifter tribes. I don't know the size of the animals we are talking about, but you see the size of the wolves. I don't want a house falling down if someone phases quickly inside. Once everyone gets here, we should have a better idea, but it won't hurt to get a jump on things. Charlie and Sue have decided to take a two bedroom cottage also, so that there will be room for a nursery. Theirs will be going near the main house, so it can be a farmhouse style, if you find one that fits the bill. I'd like to have them not all be the same, but I don't know how that will work. Anything you can come up with would be appreciated."
She smiled, squeezed my hand gently, then rushed into the house. I sighed as Jasper kissed my shoulder, "What's on your mind, Darlin'?"
I sighed again, saying, "I just don't understand why the shaman wouldn't tell us before he did something like that. I have so many questions, yet absolutely no answers. We're going to have shifters and vampires alike, all flocking here, drawing attention to us. I wanted to be out of Washington before that happened. The pack already has so many young ones. More vampires coming so close to the rez will force more kids to change. How young will they be? When does it stop?"
Jasper whispered sadly, "I don't know, Darlin'. I don't know. We need to prepare the elders and pack that most of the vampires coming will have red eyes. What do we do about feeding? I won't let them hunt in Washington, but do we ask them to respect our way… to try to feed from animals while here? Or do we send them together in groups to hunt out of state?"
I shook my head, "I don't know. I guess if we send them in groups and ask them not to hunt innocents, we might get away with it. The pack still won't be too happy, plus I'm sure everyone is already getting antsy. Maybe we should get everyone to do a little practicing, to make them feel like they're working toward something. Sitting here's starting to drive me crazy. I need to do something, so I know they have to feel the same way."
Jasper whispered, "That's a perfect idea, Darlin'. It wouldn't hurt to test what you can do now before your turning. Are you up for it?"
I nodded excitedly. "Alright, let's get a space cleared to work in."