Elemental Goddess
by: Wizardtho
Chapter 75: The Importance of Being Protector
BPOV:
Esme suddenly came to me an hour after Major got patrols set up with the packs. “Bella, Darling? I found something that I want you to look at. I know it's basic, but it has the room we need for the packs, and we can easily decorate them for comfort.”
I smiled, looking down at the laptop screen as Char spoke softly to my baby bump. The page that was pulled up had what looked to be a normal house from the outside, but looking at the plans, it had a simple layout that would easily accommodate our new pack allies. The bottom floor had the kitchen and open dining area to one side, a long living area to the other. Separating the spaces down the center was the powder room, kitchen pantry, laundry room, and entry closet. The stairs to the second floor were on the outside in the back, connecting to each side porch in a U shape. On the second floor was a central hall. Three bedrooms were placed to one side, while two bedrooms and a community bathroom sat on the other.
I liked that there would be four showers, four private toilet cubicles, and four sinks. I also really liked the idea of there being a door from each room to the outside deck, along with the one leading to the central hall. We could potentially house ten shifters in each house, more if we put bunks in some of the rooms. They would have room to move with easy access to the outside for shifting.
“Esme, this is perfect! So much better than the other bunkhouse you showed me. If you can order enough of these, we won't have to ask the rez to house any of the tribes. Each tribe can have their own bunk house. Let's get the packs to give their input, since they're the ones that need to be comfortable in the spaces for who knows how long.”
Esme nodded as my mates all smiled at me. I made a loud whistle, then said, “Jeremy... Zander... I need your eyes for a minute, please.”
They both stood and trotted over to me, then crouched down. I pointed to the screen on my lap as I asked, “We've been looking for bunk houses that will be large enough that each tribe can fit in their own house, but accessible enough that you can be outside and able to shift at a moment's notice. What do you think?”
They both studied the layout for a minute, then Jeremy said, “I like it. We had wondered how you were going to house each tribe, but this would work very well. There are plenty of windows, easily accessible doors, and with the right seating in the living and dining rooms, we could certainly fit everyone comfortably.”
Zander agreed, adding, “This would definitely house my nine members comfortably, Goddess. Do you know if you have any tribes coming that have more members?”
I nodded, thinking back. “Kendrick's bear pack has twelve, but they are sheltering on the mountain for now... along with the buffalo pack from Montana that has eight members, at last count. Then we have Florida panthers and Australia red foxes that numbered nine each at last count, Siberian white tigers at an estimated number of ten, and the last count was 7 each on the Amazon great horned owls and the Arizona jaguars. They will all be here before this battle, then sometime after our move we gain three overseas tribes. The two main reasons we are looking into kit houses, is because they are quickly set up and easy to take down to move. The kits will all be moving location with us after the battle here in Washington.”
Jeremy whistled low, then smiled while saying, “Wow... okay. That's one hell of a plus for our side. You won't hear me complaining about more eyes in the sky. With the numbers you gave, I think this layout should work for each tribe, My Goddess. Will they allow you to order enough to house all of the tribes? We will help with the building of them once they are here, of course.”
I looked up to Esme, who smiled widely, “I called ahead -in case you said yes. Since this is a standard model, they have more than we need in stock. They can be shipped out within 24 hours of placing the order. They will need to make sure enough trucks are available. The best part is that they are coming from southern Washington, so they can be here in no time.”
I nodded, then thought everything through for a good minute before answering. I got a good feeling about what I was going to say, so I nodded to Esme, “Do it, please. Order 12, because the bear and buffalo tribes might like the option here. They will need the shelter in Texas either way. That will also get us ahead on the order for the three other tribes we'll be gaining after move, as long as we have somewhere to store the order for now. Make sure they know that their company will receive a hefty bonus for prompt and secure delivery. Give them directions to come in the back way, so that traffic stays off the main road and out of Victoria's sight range. We don't want her or her army knowing what's going on, or worse, being able to tamper with anything.”
Esme nodded seriously, then patted my tummy before taking the laptop, dashing into the house.
I suddenly felt thirsty. Jasper hummed into my neck as he swirled his fingers on my tummy. “It's about that time, isn't it, Darlin?”
I hummed, then said, “Yes. Your sons are quite the little piggies, I must say. It's about time to go inside, too. We need some cuddle time with Em and Rose.”
Jasper's fingers brushed the side of my breast discreetly, so I nodded. It wasn't long before they were following us into the house and up to their room.
Our time with them was spent with us cuddling all together while they fed, but was cut short from anything else when I felt another two tribes getting close to the perimeter shield. “Time to go greet more allies, Guys. Sorry, but they're almost to the perimeter.”
They both jumped up, offering to alert the others. I quickly righted myself before bending down to Jake, “Ready? I don't think we'll be having much downtime in the near future.”
He just gave me a wolfy chuckle, looking at me like, 'Did you really expect anything else?'
By now, we had the shield testing process down pat. I only needed to have Jake give the order for the packs to shift and position themselves accordingly around the property, while my pack took position with me for the meet and greet.
The two new packs to arrive did well, the Montana buffalo and Arizona jaguar tribes, with all making it through the protective barrier and my shield without so much as a hint of trouble. They didn't even seem as testy around Major's crew as I would have expected. Malachi -the alpha from Arizona's tribe- explained that it was because they were civil with the vamps in their area, as long as no tribe residents or innocent people were harmed. I smiled at that, happy that at least some of the tribes already had civil dealings with vampires.
After I had given Jake the okay to fill the new tribes in on what has happened so far the dynamic with my mates and the Cullen family, I took up our usual spot with my mates under the tree.
It was while Jasper and Peter were talking softly to their sons near my bump, and I was resting comfortably back against Char, that the Montana buffalo alpha -Joshua- came slowly our way. “May I speak to you, my goddess?”
I smiled, running my fingers through Jasper and Peter's hair as they kissed my baby bump, “Of course, Joshua. Please, sit with us.”
Once he made himself comfortable in front of us in an Indian-style position on the ground, he seemed to think for a minute on how to say something. I watched silently, letting him know he had my attention. Finally, he let out a breath before offering, “You have full support from my pack, in relation to your multiple mates and unique connection to the Cullen family. I personally know the hardships one can face in a relationship with multiple partners, as my father's heart chose two imprints. Our tribe's people were not very welcoming of the relationship that blossomed between the three of them, and I was privy to their troubles through the mind link, once I shifted. I also saw the complete and utter devotion the three of them had for one another, even through the hardest of times. So, I just wanted to say... we support you wholeheartedly, my goddess. The love you share with your mates is beautiful and special, no matter what anyone may ever say to the contrary.”
Jasper placed his cheek on my tummy, looking at Joshua, then offered, “Thank you. It's comforting to know there are people who truly understand. Especially now, with all of this chaos around us. Isabella's unique needs and situation aside, this is still quite new for the four of us. We were greatly relieved by her father, Charlie's acceptance. Having our reservation family accept us, along with the Cullen and Denali families... we have truly been blessed so far.”
I smiled and nodded my agreement to Joshua, then Peter grinned up at me, with that mischievous glint in his eyes. I shook my head as I captured his face in my hands, already knowing whatever he was thinking would be a good thing, but trouble in some way. “What do you have up your sleeve, my passionate mate? You might as well spill it before you get yourself into trouble, mister.”
He chuckled, kissed my tummy twice, then sat up to say, “Trainin', my sexy goddess. The packs 'll get restless soon, if we don't start givin' ‘em somethin' to focus on. Plus, Major still needs to have his mock fight with the crew, to spank their outta-shape asses back into line.”
Jasper grinned up at me with that statement, wiggling his eyebrows. I just knew we were in for a treat. “Alright, go gather the crew. Jake will gather the packs. We'll all meet in the field just at the southeast end of the Cullen property. I want to make sure that Malachi and Joshua's packs have had enough to eat before they jump into training. Speaking of which, I'll need to have all the packs send their food and necessity lists to Jake, so we can get the shopping done soon. We're going to need all four suv's for the shopping trip this time. It wouldn't hurt to have a few large chest freezers and extra refrigerators bought, to make food storage a bit easier. They can go into the bunkhouses when construction is finished.”
I saw Alice bouncing over with Edward happily. She offered, “Already on it, Sweetie. I ordered them when you gave Esme the okay for the bunkhouses. Rose has cleared the part of the garage just off the kitchen, for them to be set up in. I've also ordered a moving truck, so that they can all be brought at once, by some of the crew, then the truck can be used for the groceries. The suv's will need to be filled with our protectors and us, so there won't be room for the food.”
It was thirty minutes later that we were all gathered in the field, all the vampires at attention with their hands clasped behind their backs, all the shifters sitting at attention in their animal forms. My mates and I stood tall before the gathered allies. I stepped forward to address everyone. “By now you all have been caught up, and know that there are several threats to this world, both supernatural and biological. We will all need to be in top form if we are to succeed in taking down these threats, securing a safe future for not only ourselves and our families, but also future generations... like Jaiden and Preston, along with the unborn in every large city and small town on Earth.”
I touched my stomach lightly as I looked at them, then continued. “Your minds, as well as your bodies, will be put through much over the next while. I apologize for that, but it is necessary. The future safety of your tribes, of your families, of the humans and supernaturals alike are what is at stake. Victoria won't care whether she kills one or a thousand to seek the revenge she wants. Maria and her army will decimate entire cities -innocent women and children included- to feed and turn enough to face an enemy, all in the name of gaining more feeding grounds... more people to feed from. Aro would use me as his prized plaything, killing my mates to subdue me, all so that he and the Volturi had ultimate power. He would hunt down all gifted vampires, force them into his service, and kill any who opposed him. Once he had me, there would be no stopping him from decimating shifter tribes into extinction, no one to protect the humans from being the next unsuspecting meal. The Volturi break their own rules without care or thought, appointing themselves gods among mere men, and think they are above reproach. They hide in their castle, acting as if they are better than the next person, behind gifted vampires who are forced to serve them. Though they are corrupt, they are the ruling force of the vampire race, because no one has been courageous enough to rise against them. Well, I say it's time to rise; that we will be the courageous ones.”
I could see my speech was working up the packs and vampires alike, so I made a final note. “These are the things we are fighting to correct for our world. These are the wrongs that need to be made right. It will not happen unless we are all at our best, both physically and mentally. We must work together, as one singular unit, against any foe we come against. One squabble between allies could mean the end for all of us. It is a guarantee that I will lose these boys, should we lose this first battle, while Forks and La Push will be razed to ash. Forget the world for just a moment, as I understand the concept seems daunting. This town and the Quileute reservation are my home, yet every person living within the boundaries will be dead come the end of the battle, should we not be able to fight as one. Think about what you would want, what you would do to save your towns, because it very well may be your people in danger soon, if we don't succeed.”
With that, I stepped back, then felt the air shift as Major came through. My eyes changed as I felt the ultimate goddess push through, while Major stepped forward to pace before the gathered masses. “I will push y'all to your breakin' points, both mentally and physically... know that for a fact. My mates and I will not go easy on trainin' any one’a ya, whether ya be male or female. Ya won't be coddled, 'cuz it could mean your death in the end. I won't stand for that. Y'all will be taught the most effective ways to spot your target's weaknesses, the most efficient ways to take down both newborns and experienced vampires alike, and how to keep your mind solely on your duties. The enemy will use your own weaknesses against ya, at the first available shot, so that's where the mental side of warfare comes in. My mates and I will be findin' 'em, showin' ya the ways they can be used against ya, and helpin' ya break past those weaknesses. It'll piss ya off, make ya want to retaliate, or have ya feelin' like you're dyin' by degrees, but know that until ya can break through those barriers, they're added fuel to the enemy's fire. War is fought both physically and mentally. We mean to prepare ya to succeed on both fronts. Now...”
As my Major continued to speak to the amassed crowd, I slowly started scanning them. I instinctively knew that all of the alpha and betas in attendance would need their shot to prove their worthiness as his companion protector now. I sent Major what I was sensing through our bond. He gave me a cocky smirk as soon as he finished his sentence.
With a kiss to my lips, he paced before the gathered shifters, saying clearly, “By now y’all know that my mates, along with Edward and Alice, have companion protectors. For this first battle, I will most likely be with Quil, but Quil has an imprint and 'll need to stay behind... not only to be near his heart, but to guide the others of the pack that have imprints and will be stayin' to protect the tribe when we move locations. With that said, any pack that comes to our aid 'll have the chance to prove themselves. The alphas and betas of each pack will be given the chance to prove themselves the right fit for my protector, if they choose. Do not step forward for a chance to prove yourself if ya don't want the responsibility of protector, because it'll just be wastin' my time and yours.”
Joshua was actually the first to speak, with Edward translating, once Major stilled next to me. “Question, Major.”
At his nod to continue, Joshua asked through Edward, “When will each alpha and beta be allowed to prove themselves, and how would the testing go about?”
Major smirked, then said, “I need to see raw talent... how the shifter anticipates and takes my cues... how well we work together, without the benefit of the bond that would link us together when the protector is chosen. On that note, y'all will be able to watch my pseudo fight with the crew to analyze my fightin' style. After that, another fight 'll be set up for each would-be protector that wants the position, to give 'em the chance to fight alongside me. The one that can anticipate and fight alongside me the best of all the tribes, without the benefit of the protector bond, will be given notice of their new status once we reach Texas… or shortly before. Only then will the gift of the protector bond be transferred to the individual. Each tribe's alpha and beta will be given the same chance before my protector is chosen, and both Isabella and Jake will have a say in the matter.”
Joshua nodded thoughtfully, so I stepped up to wrap my arm around Major's waist. He placed a protective hand on my belly as I said, “Before you step forward for the chance to prove yourselves, you must understand what it will truly mean for you -for my Major. The bond will allow you to sense his needs, and he yours, when there is a call for it. You will be an extension of each other in battle. You all see my Jake... see my bond with him through the mind link. Though you will not have the benefit of knowing my mate since practically birth, as I have with Jake, I will accept only the most natural compliment to my Major as his protector. Jake will gladly help you with any questions you have concerning the bond and responsibility while you watch the fight between Major and the crew. This is a decision that will affect the lives of myself and my mates, so be sure you truly understand and want the honor of protector before you step forward.”
After Major took over again, he had everyone clear a space in the center of the field. Peter and Charlotte both kissed me before heading toward the crew in the center of the field, then Major gave me a playful smirk before nipping my neck and offering in a husky whisper, “Enjoy the show, Isabella. Fightin's like vampire foreplay. You up for a good romp tonight?”
I laughed, then smacked his ass while giving him a steamy kiss, “Bring it, Major. You know damn well that I can take anything you can dish out.”
I heard a round of shifter and vampire chuckles as I plopped down to sit against Jake's side, his chest rumbling happily with his own laugh.
The Cullens and Denalis all found spots around Jake and myself, while the shifter packs spread out to make a sort of barrier around the field, all settling down to watch the coming fight. I knew that each would use the mind link with Jake to ask any of their questions, though. Edward kissed my neck before confirming in a barely audible breath, “They've already started asking Jake questions. You did well with making them see that being a protector isn't just a glorified title, Sweetheart.”
I nodded, then felt Major's emotions settle as he took his place in the center of the field.
Watching my mates fight was actually a beautiful and emotionally settling experience... other than the fact that it was also completely arousing. Char was stunning going against her two opponents, her blonde locks and sensual curves moving fluidly, and more than once I saw her opponents turn and hit each other from some type of chaos she started.
Peter, my passionate Peter. He was pure destruction on the field. He mock 'tore' through his own several opponents, along with tearing up part of the field. There were several times that an opponent would go skidding or flying through the barrier that the shifters had made, causing them to move out of the way quickly. I could clearly see the awe they all now held for my mates.
The center of attention, both the packs' and mine, was my glorious Major. My Ares. He was precise, fluid, left no opening for his attackers, and truly terrifying. His thirst for the fight, his sleek cat-like motions, and his deadly blows to his opponents all showed him to be the God of War that he truly was. It was both beautiful and humbling. My pride for my mates swelled to overflowing inside my heart, even as my arousal nearly drowned my system.
After my three mates were the only ones left standing in the center of the field, I heard a rumble from deep in Kendrick's chest. I looked, only to find him with his head bowed toward the ground facing my mates. Then, as if it was choreographed, each shifter except Jake made the same gesture in their regal animal form. Major stepped forward. “You've all now seen my fightin' style. Now I'm gonna letha see how the others work with their protectors durin' a fight. Notice the differences between each pair, and how well they work as one to take down an enemy. See how Char and Peter's protectors naturally compliment their fightin' styles, now that you've seen ‘em fight alone. Cullens, Denalis, if y'all will please help with the demonstration. I’ll be sittin' this one out, so they can see what I'm meanin', after Isabella rights the field.”
I nodded at his look, then pictured the field as it was when we first entered it. Sitting in my lotus position, I closed my eyes, kissed my palms, then brushed my hands lovingly through the grass in front of me. I opened my eyes with a smile, watching as the field repaired itself of ruts, gouges, and broken limbs, the whole process taking mere seconds.
Major gave me a beautiful smile, then turned to everyone before saying, “Team up with your protectors now. Anyone without one will be on the opposin' side. I don't expect ya to be perfectly synched with your protectors yet, as y'all are still adjustin' to the bond and this is your first time fightin' together. Know that we will be perfectin' your individual styles to be the most effective for ya durin' the time we have, though. If I call out to a specific team, take notice of what I'm sayin' to help ya. Go, now.”
The tribes held their position around the field. When the pseudo battle started, their complete attention was captured, as was mine. Each wolf and vampire pair was matched perfectly. They couldn't have been better suited for each other. Embry was just as destructive as Peter, Leah and Char caused perfect chaos together in the ranks of the faux enemy, and Seth worked almost seamlessly with Edward, even though he couldn't read Edward's thoughts. The kicker was Paul and Alice.
Though I expected there to be some missteps with those two, since Alice's sight was still fuzzy to Paul last time I checked, they seemed to anticipate each others' moves flawlessly. I was awed at the pair as they moved through their opponents -expertly dodging the chaos and destruction around them- and seeming to know just what the other was about to do, only to make a move that was perfectly synched to their partner. They were a terrifying duo to be against, that's for damn sure.
After their battle ended, the field was righted again. All was silent for several minutes. Major was allowing all that the shifters had seen to settle in their minds, knowing they more fully understood the role of protector now. We were about to see who truly wanted to take on the responsibility of being named his.
In the end, it was silent in the small clearing for almost a full three minutes before Major called out, “Now that ya understand the importance of the role of protector, who among your alphas and betas will step forward for the honor to fight alongside me as mine?”
Esme suddenly came to me an hour after Major got patrols set up with the packs. “Bella, Darling? I found something that I want you to look at. I know it's basic, but it has the room we need for the packs, and we can easily decorate them for comfort.”
I smiled, looking down at the laptop screen as Char spoke softly to my baby bump. The page that was pulled up had what looked to be a normal house from the outside, but looking at the plans, it had a simple layout that would easily accommodate our new pack allies. The bottom floor had the kitchen and open dining area to one side, a long living area to the other. Separating the spaces down the center was the powder room, kitchen pantry, laundry room, and entry closet. The stairs to the second floor were on the outside in the back, connecting to each side porch in a U shape. On the second floor was a central hall. Three bedrooms were placed to one side, while two bedrooms and a community bathroom sat on the other.
I liked that there would be four showers, four private toilet cubicles, and four sinks. I also really liked the idea of there being a door from each room to the outside deck, along with the one leading to the central hall. We could potentially house ten shifters in each house, more if we put bunks in some of the rooms. They would have room to move with easy access to the outside for shifting.
“Esme, this is perfect! So much better than the other bunkhouse you showed me. If you can order enough of these, we won't have to ask the rez to house any of the tribes. Each tribe can have their own bunk house. Let's get the packs to give their input, since they're the ones that need to be comfortable in the spaces for who knows how long.”
Esme nodded as my mates all smiled at me. I made a loud whistle, then said, “Jeremy... Zander... I need your eyes for a minute, please.”
They both stood and trotted over to me, then crouched down. I pointed to the screen on my lap as I asked, “We've been looking for bunk houses that will be large enough that each tribe can fit in their own house, but accessible enough that you can be outside and able to shift at a moment's notice. What do you think?”
They both studied the layout for a minute, then Jeremy said, “I like it. We had wondered how you were going to house each tribe, but this would work very well. There are plenty of windows, easily accessible doors, and with the right seating in the living and dining rooms, we could certainly fit everyone comfortably.”
Zander agreed, adding, “This would definitely house my nine members comfortably, Goddess. Do you know if you have any tribes coming that have more members?”
I nodded, thinking back. “Kendrick's bear pack has twelve, but they are sheltering on the mountain for now... along with the buffalo pack from Montana that has eight members, at last count. Then we have Florida panthers and Australia red foxes that numbered nine each at last count, Siberian white tigers at an estimated number of ten, and the last count was 7 each on the Amazon great horned owls and the Arizona jaguars. They will all be here before this battle, then sometime after our move we gain three overseas tribes. The two main reasons we are looking into kit houses, is because they are quickly set up and easy to take down to move. The kits will all be moving location with us after the battle here in Washington.”
Jeremy whistled low, then smiled while saying, “Wow... okay. That's one hell of a plus for our side. You won't hear me complaining about more eyes in the sky. With the numbers you gave, I think this layout should work for each tribe, My Goddess. Will they allow you to order enough to house all of the tribes? We will help with the building of them once they are here, of course.”
I looked up to Esme, who smiled widely, “I called ahead -in case you said yes. Since this is a standard model, they have more than we need in stock. They can be shipped out within 24 hours of placing the order. They will need to make sure enough trucks are available. The best part is that they are coming from southern Washington, so they can be here in no time.”
I nodded, then thought everything through for a good minute before answering. I got a good feeling about what I was going to say, so I nodded to Esme, “Do it, please. Order 12, because the bear and buffalo tribes might like the option here. They will need the shelter in Texas either way. That will also get us ahead on the order for the three other tribes we'll be gaining after move, as long as we have somewhere to store the order for now. Make sure they know that their company will receive a hefty bonus for prompt and secure delivery. Give them directions to come in the back way, so that traffic stays off the main road and out of Victoria's sight range. We don't want her or her army knowing what's going on, or worse, being able to tamper with anything.”
Esme nodded seriously, then patted my tummy before taking the laptop, dashing into the house.
I suddenly felt thirsty. Jasper hummed into my neck as he swirled his fingers on my tummy. “It's about that time, isn't it, Darlin?”
I hummed, then said, “Yes. Your sons are quite the little piggies, I must say. It's about time to go inside, too. We need some cuddle time with Em and Rose.”
Jasper's fingers brushed the side of my breast discreetly, so I nodded. It wasn't long before they were following us into the house and up to their room.
Our time with them was spent with us cuddling all together while they fed, but was cut short from anything else when I felt another two tribes getting close to the perimeter shield. “Time to go greet more allies, Guys. Sorry, but they're almost to the perimeter.”
They both jumped up, offering to alert the others. I quickly righted myself before bending down to Jake, “Ready? I don't think we'll be having much downtime in the near future.”
He just gave me a wolfy chuckle, looking at me like, 'Did you really expect anything else?'
By now, we had the shield testing process down pat. I only needed to have Jake give the order for the packs to shift and position themselves accordingly around the property, while my pack took position with me for the meet and greet.
The two new packs to arrive did well, the Montana buffalo and Arizona jaguar tribes, with all making it through the protective barrier and my shield without so much as a hint of trouble. They didn't even seem as testy around Major's crew as I would have expected. Malachi -the alpha from Arizona's tribe- explained that it was because they were civil with the vamps in their area, as long as no tribe residents or innocent people were harmed. I smiled at that, happy that at least some of the tribes already had civil dealings with vampires.
After I had given Jake the okay to fill the new tribes in on what has happened so far the dynamic with my mates and the Cullen family, I took up our usual spot with my mates under the tree.
It was while Jasper and Peter were talking softly to their sons near my bump, and I was resting comfortably back against Char, that the Montana buffalo alpha -Joshua- came slowly our way. “May I speak to you, my goddess?”
I smiled, running my fingers through Jasper and Peter's hair as they kissed my baby bump, “Of course, Joshua. Please, sit with us.”
Once he made himself comfortable in front of us in an Indian-style position on the ground, he seemed to think for a minute on how to say something. I watched silently, letting him know he had my attention. Finally, he let out a breath before offering, “You have full support from my pack, in relation to your multiple mates and unique connection to the Cullen family. I personally know the hardships one can face in a relationship with multiple partners, as my father's heart chose two imprints. Our tribe's people were not very welcoming of the relationship that blossomed between the three of them, and I was privy to their troubles through the mind link, once I shifted. I also saw the complete and utter devotion the three of them had for one another, even through the hardest of times. So, I just wanted to say... we support you wholeheartedly, my goddess. The love you share with your mates is beautiful and special, no matter what anyone may ever say to the contrary.”
Jasper placed his cheek on my tummy, looking at Joshua, then offered, “Thank you. It's comforting to know there are people who truly understand. Especially now, with all of this chaos around us. Isabella's unique needs and situation aside, this is still quite new for the four of us. We were greatly relieved by her father, Charlie's acceptance. Having our reservation family accept us, along with the Cullen and Denali families... we have truly been blessed so far.”
I smiled and nodded my agreement to Joshua, then Peter grinned up at me, with that mischievous glint in his eyes. I shook my head as I captured his face in my hands, already knowing whatever he was thinking would be a good thing, but trouble in some way. “What do you have up your sleeve, my passionate mate? You might as well spill it before you get yourself into trouble, mister.”
He chuckled, kissed my tummy twice, then sat up to say, “Trainin', my sexy goddess. The packs 'll get restless soon, if we don't start givin' ‘em somethin' to focus on. Plus, Major still needs to have his mock fight with the crew, to spank their outta-shape asses back into line.”
Jasper grinned up at me with that statement, wiggling his eyebrows. I just knew we were in for a treat. “Alright, go gather the crew. Jake will gather the packs. We'll all meet in the field just at the southeast end of the Cullen property. I want to make sure that Malachi and Joshua's packs have had enough to eat before they jump into training. Speaking of which, I'll need to have all the packs send their food and necessity lists to Jake, so we can get the shopping done soon. We're going to need all four suv's for the shopping trip this time. It wouldn't hurt to have a few large chest freezers and extra refrigerators bought, to make food storage a bit easier. They can go into the bunkhouses when construction is finished.”
I saw Alice bouncing over with Edward happily. She offered, “Already on it, Sweetie. I ordered them when you gave Esme the okay for the bunkhouses. Rose has cleared the part of the garage just off the kitchen, for them to be set up in. I've also ordered a moving truck, so that they can all be brought at once, by some of the crew, then the truck can be used for the groceries. The suv's will need to be filled with our protectors and us, so there won't be room for the food.”
It was thirty minutes later that we were all gathered in the field, all the vampires at attention with their hands clasped behind their backs, all the shifters sitting at attention in their animal forms. My mates and I stood tall before the gathered allies. I stepped forward to address everyone. “By now you all have been caught up, and know that there are several threats to this world, both supernatural and biological. We will all need to be in top form if we are to succeed in taking down these threats, securing a safe future for not only ourselves and our families, but also future generations... like Jaiden and Preston, along with the unborn in every large city and small town on Earth.”
I touched my stomach lightly as I looked at them, then continued. “Your minds, as well as your bodies, will be put through much over the next while. I apologize for that, but it is necessary. The future safety of your tribes, of your families, of the humans and supernaturals alike are what is at stake. Victoria won't care whether she kills one or a thousand to seek the revenge she wants. Maria and her army will decimate entire cities -innocent women and children included- to feed and turn enough to face an enemy, all in the name of gaining more feeding grounds... more people to feed from. Aro would use me as his prized plaything, killing my mates to subdue me, all so that he and the Volturi had ultimate power. He would hunt down all gifted vampires, force them into his service, and kill any who opposed him. Once he had me, there would be no stopping him from decimating shifter tribes into extinction, no one to protect the humans from being the next unsuspecting meal. The Volturi break their own rules without care or thought, appointing themselves gods among mere men, and think they are above reproach. They hide in their castle, acting as if they are better than the next person, behind gifted vampires who are forced to serve them. Though they are corrupt, they are the ruling force of the vampire race, because no one has been courageous enough to rise against them. Well, I say it's time to rise; that we will be the courageous ones.”
I could see my speech was working up the packs and vampires alike, so I made a final note. “These are the things we are fighting to correct for our world. These are the wrongs that need to be made right. It will not happen unless we are all at our best, both physically and mentally. We must work together, as one singular unit, against any foe we come against. One squabble between allies could mean the end for all of us. It is a guarantee that I will lose these boys, should we lose this first battle, while Forks and La Push will be razed to ash. Forget the world for just a moment, as I understand the concept seems daunting. This town and the Quileute reservation are my home, yet every person living within the boundaries will be dead come the end of the battle, should we not be able to fight as one. Think about what you would want, what you would do to save your towns, because it very well may be your people in danger soon, if we don't succeed.”
With that, I stepped back, then felt the air shift as Major came through. My eyes changed as I felt the ultimate goddess push through, while Major stepped forward to pace before the gathered masses. “I will push y'all to your breakin' points, both mentally and physically... know that for a fact. My mates and I will not go easy on trainin' any one’a ya, whether ya be male or female. Ya won't be coddled, 'cuz it could mean your death in the end. I won't stand for that. Y'all will be taught the most effective ways to spot your target's weaknesses, the most efficient ways to take down both newborns and experienced vampires alike, and how to keep your mind solely on your duties. The enemy will use your own weaknesses against ya, at the first available shot, so that's where the mental side of warfare comes in. My mates and I will be findin' 'em, showin' ya the ways they can be used against ya, and helpin' ya break past those weaknesses. It'll piss ya off, make ya want to retaliate, or have ya feelin' like you're dyin' by degrees, but know that until ya can break through those barriers, they're added fuel to the enemy's fire. War is fought both physically and mentally. We mean to prepare ya to succeed on both fronts. Now...”
As my Major continued to speak to the amassed crowd, I slowly started scanning them. I instinctively knew that all of the alpha and betas in attendance would need their shot to prove their worthiness as his companion protector now. I sent Major what I was sensing through our bond. He gave me a cocky smirk as soon as he finished his sentence.
With a kiss to my lips, he paced before the gathered shifters, saying clearly, “By now y’all know that my mates, along with Edward and Alice, have companion protectors. For this first battle, I will most likely be with Quil, but Quil has an imprint and 'll need to stay behind... not only to be near his heart, but to guide the others of the pack that have imprints and will be stayin' to protect the tribe when we move locations. With that said, any pack that comes to our aid 'll have the chance to prove themselves. The alphas and betas of each pack will be given the chance to prove themselves the right fit for my protector, if they choose. Do not step forward for a chance to prove yourself if ya don't want the responsibility of protector, because it'll just be wastin' my time and yours.”
Joshua was actually the first to speak, with Edward translating, once Major stilled next to me. “Question, Major.”
At his nod to continue, Joshua asked through Edward, “When will each alpha and beta be allowed to prove themselves, and how would the testing go about?”
Major smirked, then said, “I need to see raw talent... how the shifter anticipates and takes my cues... how well we work together, without the benefit of the bond that would link us together when the protector is chosen. On that note, y'all will be able to watch my pseudo fight with the crew to analyze my fightin' style. After that, another fight 'll be set up for each would-be protector that wants the position, to give 'em the chance to fight alongside me. The one that can anticipate and fight alongside me the best of all the tribes, without the benefit of the protector bond, will be given notice of their new status once we reach Texas… or shortly before. Only then will the gift of the protector bond be transferred to the individual. Each tribe's alpha and beta will be given the same chance before my protector is chosen, and both Isabella and Jake will have a say in the matter.”
Joshua nodded thoughtfully, so I stepped up to wrap my arm around Major's waist. He placed a protective hand on my belly as I said, “Before you step forward for the chance to prove yourselves, you must understand what it will truly mean for you -for my Major. The bond will allow you to sense his needs, and he yours, when there is a call for it. You will be an extension of each other in battle. You all see my Jake... see my bond with him through the mind link. Though you will not have the benefit of knowing my mate since practically birth, as I have with Jake, I will accept only the most natural compliment to my Major as his protector. Jake will gladly help you with any questions you have concerning the bond and responsibility while you watch the fight between Major and the crew. This is a decision that will affect the lives of myself and my mates, so be sure you truly understand and want the honor of protector before you step forward.”
After Major took over again, he had everyone clear a space in the center of the field. Peter and Charlotte both kissed me before heading toward the crew in the center of the field, then Major gave me a playful smirk before nipping my neck and offering in a husky whisper, “Enjoy the show, Isabella. Fightin's like vampire foreplay. You up for a good romp tonight?”
I laughed, then smacked his ass while giving him a steamy kiss, “Bring it, Major. You know damn well that I can take anything you can dish out.”
I heard a round of shifter and vampire chuckles as I plopped down to sit against Jake's side, his chest rumbling happily with his own laugh.
The Cullens and Denalis all found spots around Jake and myself, while the shifter packs spread out to make a sort of barrier around the field, all settling down to watch the coming fight. I knew that each would use the mind link with Jake to ask any of their questions, though. Edward kissed my neck before confirming in a barely audible breath, “They've already started asking Jake questions. You did well with making them see that being a protector isn't just a glorified title, Sweetheart.”
I nodded, then felt Major's emotions settle as he took his place in the center of the field.
Watching my mates fight was actually a beautiful and emotionally settling experience... other than the fact that it was also completely arousing. Char was stunning going against her two opponents, her blonde locks and sensual curves moving fluidly, and more than once I saw her opponents turn and hit each other from some type of chaos she started.
Peter, my passionate Peter. He was pure destruction on the field. He mock 'tore' through his own several opponents, along with tearing up part of the field. There were several times that an opponent would go skidding or flying through the barrier that the shifters had made, causing them to move out of the way quickly. I could clearly see the awe they all now held for my mates.
The center of attention, both the packs' and mine, was my glorious Major. My Ares. He was precise, fluid, left no opening for his attackers, and truly terrifying. His thirst for the fight, his sleek cat-like motions, and his deadly blows to his opponents all showed him to be the God of War that he truly was. It was both beautiful and humbling. My pride for my mates swelled to overflowing inside my heart, even as my arousal nearly drowned my system.
After my three mates were the only ones left standing in the center of the field, I heard a rumble from deep in Kendrick's chest. I looked, only to find him with his head bowed toward the ground facing my mates. Then, as if it was choreographed, each shifter except Jake made the same gesture in their regal animal form. Major stepped forward. “You've all now seen my fightin' style. Now I'm gonna letha see how the others work with their protectors durin' a fight. Notice the differences between each pair, and how well they work as one to take down an enemy. See how Char and Peter's protectors naturally compliment their fightin' styles, now that you've seen ‘em fight alone. Cullens, Denalis, if y'all will please help with the demonstration. I’ll be sittin' this one out, so they can see what I'm meanin', after Isabella rights the field.”
I nodded at his look, then pictured the field as it was when we first entered it. Sitting in my lotus position, I closed my eyes, kissed my palms, then brushed my hands lovingly through the grass in front of me. I opened my eyes with a smile, watching as the field repaired itself of ruts, gouges, and broken limbs, the whole process taking mere seconds.
Major gave me a beautiful smile, then turned to everyone before saying, “Team up with your protectors now. Anyone without one will be on the opposin' side. I don't expect ya to be perfectly synched with your protectors yet, as y'all are still adjustin' to the bond and this is your first time fightin' together. Know that we will be perfectin' your individual styles to be the most effective for ya durin' the time we have, though. If I call out to a specific team, take notice of what I'm sayin' to help ya. Go, now.”
The tribes held their position around the field. When the pseudo battle started, their complete attention was captured, as was mine. Each wolf and vampire pair was matched perfectly. They couldn't have been better suited for each other. Embry was just as destructive as Peter, Leah and Char caused perfect chaos together in the ranks of the faux enemy, and Seth worked almost seamlessly with Edward, even though he couldn't read Edward's thoughts. The kicker was Paul and Alice.
Though I expected there to be some missteps with those two, since Alice's sight was still fuzzy to Paul last time I checked, they seemed to anticipate each others' moves flawlessly. I was awed at the pair as they moved through their opponents -expertly dodging the chaos and destruction around them- and seeming to know just what the other was about to do, only to make a move that was perfectly synched to their partner. They were a terrifying duo to be against, that's for damn sure.
After their battle ended, the field was righted again. All was silent for several minutes. Major was allowing all that the shifters had seen to settle in their minds, knowing they more fully understood the role of protector now. We were about to see who truly wanted to take on the responsibility of being named his.
In the end, it was silent in the small clearing for almost a full three minutes before Major called out, “Now that ya understand the importance of the role of protector, who among your alphas and betas will step forward for the honor to fight alongside me as mine?”