Elemental Goddess
by: Wizardtho
Chapter 82: The Smith Surprise and Raised Hackles
My mates and I decided to walk around to each site to see how everyone was coming along. Of course, my dad and Sue wanted to tag along with us. The other elders and Sam decided to help out with what they could at the current site. Jake happily nudged Billy's cheek before coming to my side, making Billy chuckle.
As we checked on each site, I was pleased with the progress, both with the bunkhouses and everyone working so well together. I made a mental note of who was where, curious as to why we had a few crew missing. I made a comment about it, to which Major offered, “Kota is a smith. It helps her, in times of stress, to work with metal. She asked Carlisle if she could build a small workstation on the grounds. We saw no reason to not give her an area to use away from the bunkhouses. She and a few others are workin’ on buildin’ her smelter and forge.”
I was shocked at this news for some reason, but also intrigued. “So she's a metal smith? Like building weapons and stuff? I wonder if she wouldn't mind doing some special work for us.”
He rose an eyebrow, so I chuckled, “Now that I'm a vampire goddess with elemental powers, our playroom might need some stronger bindings, My Love.”
He let out a sexy chuckle, wrapped his arm around my waist as I heard Charlie and Sue both snicker, then kissed my neck. “Always thinkin', Isabella. We'll stop and talk to her about it after we check the last of the sites.”
Just as we reached the last -and smallest- site, I noticed Alistair talking with a beautiful Native American female. They both looked happy, so I let them alone, smiling at Charlie while whispering so only our small group could hear, “That's Alistair, over there with the female off to the side. Try not to push him. I want to coax him out of his shell, not force him out. My goddess is telling me we'll be in need of him down the road, and not only for his gift. Plus, he cared enough about Carlisle to actually leave his home in England and travel here.”
Dad and Sue both nodded seriously in response. Just then, I caught our missing crew members headed our way. I smiled at them, asking happily, “Kota? Did you get to finish everything you needed?”
She beamed at me, “Yes, Goddess. Thank you. I feel right at home now. We were even able to make something for you and Major. Would you like to join us in my workshop?”
I looked up to Major, who offered, “Of course, there's somethin' we wanted to talk to ya about, anyway.”
We all followed them at a human pace, since Charlie and Sue were still with us. I beamed as I saw her new space. “This is amazing, Kota.”
Charlie gave a wholehearted agreement, then she looked as if she'd be blushing while she said, “Yeah, it's perfect. When Carlisle told us which direction to run, I never expected to find this. I guess this used to be an old summer kitchen and food storage place.”
Major nodded before offering, “Esme couldn't see tearin' it down, but couldn't find a use for it.”
I looked around the outside, then back to Kota. “Will it fit your needs?”
She beamed, “Yes, definitely. My smelter is inside, on the other side of the forge. There's plenty of room inside, and there's also a decent sized room upstairs. Actually, that's one of the things I wanted to ask you. Would you mind Nate and me making this our place? If you need us rooming closer, that's fine.”
I looked to Major and felt his acceptance, so I said, “Sure. As long as the two of you will be comfortable here, I don't see why not. It's inside the protective field, so you're safe, plus it'll give you room to work when you feel the need.”
She beamed at me, then looked to Major. “I'd like to show you your surprise, if you'll come inside.”
Kota led the way inside. My hand went to my throat as I gasped at the first thing my eyes spotted. It was a beautiful dual St. Andrew’s cross, with a padded-topped straddling horse in between the two sides of the cross. My eyes teared up without notice, then suddenly Major was holding me while Kota explained. “We heard how much you missed Major's cross in Texas, Goddess. I know this isn't an exact replica, but maybe this will ease a bit of the stress on both of you.”
Major lifted my chin to look in my eyes, then smiled slightly as he said, “You alright, Isabella?”
I grinned, “Yes, Major. Obsidian. Just surprised... and very grateful.”
He released my chin with a nod, then I turned in his arms to say, “Thank you, so much, Kota. I'll be sure to thank you again after we try it out.”
Major smirked at me when Sue chuckled, “Better hope she doesn't act out on purpose, just so you'll spend time with her, now that the excuse of not having a cross is out.”
His smirk widened in response as he replied, “My Isabella's a good girl, aren't ya? Ya know there's no need to act out to get whatcha want.”
I chuckled, remembering the last time I acted out, “Yes, Sir. Lesson learned. All I have to do is ask, and you'll give it to me when you feel ready to. No brattiness needed.”
Charlie mumbled, “Smart girl, my daughter,” to Sue as Kota said, “I'll leave it to you to have it moved, now that it is officially yours. The rings are all venom infused to strengthen them. I used a low amount of Alice's, since she knew about the project and is intimately connected to the four of you. I'm already working on new cuffs and stronger bindings to go with it.”
My eyes went wide at that, then I remembered the vampire-proof cells. I turned to face her fully in a swift movement. “Oh... oh wow... the cells. Kota, you're brilliant. We need vampire-proof cells built. Edward knows the process, as the shaman gave it to him before we left the meeting. Would you be able to make them?”
She grinned, then nodded, “I know the process of making metal vampire-proof from my human time with my tribe. I'll just need the original metal you want used, some specific herbs blessed from your elders, a high quantity of venom, and it would do well for you to add a spell while I'm working the venom into the metal.”
I frowned at that, then said, “I don't want our allies giving venom to the cause, though. It will deplete them, if you need a large quantity, especially as we need them made as soon as possible.”
Just then, Jake rubbed his muzzle into my side. I groaned as I felt the grounding sensation from the Earth. “Uggh, looks like our cross time will have to wait just a bit longer, Major. We have incoming.”
Just as we reached the outside again, Aleksei came sliding to a stop in front of us. Major nodded as he patted his slightly winded side. “Company, Aleksei. Nothin’ to be alarmed about yet.”
He quickly flipped onto Aleksei's back, then said gently, “Charlie, Sue, I'd like one of ya to ride with me, please. The other will ride with Isabella on Jake. We need to get to the front yard, and still have to meet up with the others.”
Charlie walked with Sue over to Aleksei, kissed her softly once, then placed her hand in Major's. He walked over to me once Sue was settled in front of Major, so I guided, “Sit in front of me, please. That way if anything happens, I already have my arms around you, and can compensate.”
He nodded, so I helped him onto Jake's back before climbing on myself.
On the way, I made sure that Jake had called everyone through the mind link, and Major had notified Edward to rally the vamps. We made it to the front yard quickly.
As Alice went to help Sue down, Edward helped Charlie down. They guided them into the protective V made by the companion wolves, along with the rest of the elders and Cullens, while the other vamps and packs spread out. I got a cautious feeling, so I knew I would have to be firm with the newcomers right off the bat. I hurried to warn my mates, Jake, and Aleksei in a rushed whisper, then immediately called out as I felt three vampires enter the protective field, “You will identify yourselves before you make another step, or that step will be your last.”
I could practically feel everyone's confusion, but this was needed for some reason. My Goddess wouldn't let me back down. Instantly, my arms shot out in front of me, my elements swirling the brightest I'd ever seen them. The full force of the ultimate Goddess rang in my voice as I called, “Three... two...”
I didn't even get to one before I heard a tentative voice say in a distinct Swedish accent, “My name is Olivia, and my companions are Matteo and Sebastian. We are here seeking our friends, of the Cullen coven.”
I turned and saw recognition in Edward's eyes. After he mouthed 'Sweden', I turned back to say, “If you mean us no harm, you may enter the front yard, but come no further. Know that your intentions will be tested, and your lives will be forfeit if you harm any on protected land.”
I never expected my hackles to raise at the mere sight of the three vampires who entered the clearing, but when they stopped just inside the treeline, my elements flared wildly as I hissed, “YOU! Your bloodlust will be the downfall of us all! The lives that will be lost will not stop at yours, if you can't contain your thirst!”
Major gasped, so I growled as I answered his unasked question, “They're the ones that I had the vision of, Major. The ones that caused us to lose everything!”
I turned back to the three, my elements and shield both flaring wildly as dismounted Jake. I stalked forward. The ultimate goddess made no qualms about her voice ringing throughout the clearing as the elements made a beautiful but deadly show around the space, “State your true intentions here, now, or witness the wrath of the Goddess.”
I felt Jake crouch and growl at my side when I stopped a mere ten feet from the newcomers. I watched them tremble and drop to their knees as they witnessed but a mere fraction of my true power.
The female tried to speak, but her voice cracked and gave out on the first word, so one of the males spoke. His voice still wasn't stable, sounding similar to a teen boy's during puberty, but he finally forced out, “I swear on my life, Goddess. We mean no harm. We are peaceful vampires. Whispers are everywhere abroad. We had started making our way to the gathering, since the Italians have been causing a lot of problems for vampires lately, when we received a phone call from our friend Esme. We connected the dots after her call, and knew we needed to make haste. I swear to you that we have no intention to harm anyone. What did you see happening exactly?”
I didn't calm, even with Major sending me only honesty, curiosity, and a shit ton of fear. I let out an internal breath to stay level-headed, but said seriously, “Whether you mean no harm or not, unless you promise me that you will keep yourselves glutted on donated blood while here, I can not allow you to stay. I'm sorry, but we are in constant contact with the human elders of the Quileute wolf tribe, as well as my human father. I will not risk their lives, or the lives of the townspeople. I saw the three of you killing a human female who unintentionally bled, which caused the wolves to retaliate, and ultimately many lives were lost. My unborn sons were two of those lost.”
Their eyes about popped out of their head, then suddenly Aleksei was crouched and growling right alongside Jake, while Major was holding my hand in comfort. He knew how touchy this subject was for me, and my emotions were all over the place. I was the closest I'd been to an episode since my turning, which was never a good thing.
The female looked at me in horror, choking out, “Oh, God... babies? I swear, Goddess... We will keep ourselves as full as possible while here. I would never want to harm a child, let alone an unborn baby. I give you my word.”
I shook my head, not willing to take the promise from only one of three, “Your companions will have to agree aloud also, Olivia.”
I looked from one male to the other, both looked as if they would be crying if they could produce tears. They both immediately agreed, so I said one last thing, “This is your only warning. We have a steady supply of donated blood coming in, which will be warmed to temperature for any vampire here upon asking for it. There will also be some in your quarters, within easy reach, once those quarters are built. The first time I see you eye a human as if they're food, or my mate feels your blood lust, I will kill you myself without a second thought. We are working too hard to make sure everyone bonds with the other allies, so that we all live through the coming battles. I won't hesitate to take out anyone I feel is becoming a threat to that outcome.”
I suddenly heard every being in the entire clearing gasp, the three in front of me curling up as they cried out. I looked to Major, who shook his head, trying to remain in control. “I can't control it, Isabella. It's natural for me to share your emotions when you're in this state. Look at me, now. Ya need to calm down. What color, Isabella?”
I shook my head, knowing I was nearing my snapping point, then whispered, “Yellow, Major... but we need to get through this before anything else happens.”
Major growled slightly, then barked at the three curled up on the ground, “Do ya see what your actions could cause? Those are my mate's feelin's... her love for every bein' in this clearin', her fear for our unborn sons, her determination to have everyone live through this, and her hope for a brighter future for all supernaturals. You're feelin' all the despair she felt durin' the vision, when not only her friend died, but several of her protector's wolves. If we can't count on ya to try your damnedest to get along with everyone here and keep your thirst under control, we will never win the first battle, let alone the other two. Our sons will never be born! Tell me now that ya could live with that on your conscience!”
Without giving them another look, Major turned back to me, taking my chin between his fingers. The elements sporadically shot around the clearing in a deadly dance; earth air, fire, and water all showing their glory to those in attendance. Major said in a deadly serious tone, “Isabella, calm! Now, damn it. Listen to me. Think of Jaiden and Preston. This isn't good for them. Match your breathin' to mine, and let's get these elements to dissipate. We've made our point, and they’ll be good li’l vampires now. Right?”
He shot the last part to the vampires, who immediately nodded with the promise that they wouldn't make any trouble. I took a few shaky breaths, then tried my hardest to listen to Major. I concentrated on his chest, the air flowing steadily in and out as I rested my trembling hands on it, but it took several minutes for the elements to start calming around the clearing.
Major kept his focus only on me, encouraging me to focus on him, then finally brought my body flush with his. He traced my elements in synch with his breathing, letting his breath fan over my face. That worked, then I saw earth splits, wildfires, water shoots, and tornadoes fizzing to nothing around the clearing from my peripheral vision.
I was still extremely shaky, but Major said the perfect thing to help me through. “Concentrate for me, Isabella. I need ya to listen to me. I need ya to right the front yard, then test the Swedish coven by havin' them cross your shield. I could feel the truth in their words, Isabella... they honestly don't wanna hurt our sons, or your friend. Do this for me, then I'll take ya back to our cabin to set ya right. Just you and me. Now what's your color, Isabella?”
My voice was shaky, but I managed fairly well after clearing my throat. “Yellow, Major, but I can do it. Just you and me?”
He nodded, “Yeah. Just you and me. The rest of our immediate group will be there, of course, but this will be our time. They won't interfere.”
I nodded, took a deep breath, then let it out while looking into my Major's eyes. “I'm ready.”
I turned toward the house, then noticed that everyone seemed accounted for and unhurt, which I was grateful for. I swiped my hands slowly through the air, watching all of the previous destruction from my meltdown fade away as the front yard righted itself.
I turned back to the three vampires, who were all still curled in on themselves, though not nearly as tightly as before. I let out a breath, then said, “Olivia, Matteo, and Sebastian... if you truly mean what you say, and will keep to your promises, you will be able to cross into my shield. Those of you that pass this test will be welcome here, those that do not will not leave this clearing alive. You know the risks, now... have felt my emotions on the subject... so there is no middle ground. Come to me in the order I just called your names, but only when given the signal, one at a time.”
They got to their feet hesitantly. When Olivia looked at me, I nodded. She slowly stepped forward, placed both shaky hands on my shield, then spread them out as she walked forward close enough that her cheek touched it in a sort of hug. She stayed there for a long moment. After kissing my shield, she took a deep breath, then walked forward... all with her eyes closed. Her arms came down to her sides as she opened her eyes to look at me, and I could hear both her companions sighing in relief. I nodded to her, directed her to stand on the other side of Major, then nodded for Matteo to come forward.
Matteo came forward more slowly than Olivia had, but when he was within reaching distance, he gently brushed his hands down my shield as he knelt in front of it. His forehead rested against the shimmering barrier for a long moment, then he stretched his torso forward so that he was fully bowed to me with his hands outstretched.
After a few seconds, I called for him to go stand next to his coven mate, then gave Sebastian the signal to come forward. He wasn't as hesitant nearing my shield as the other two, and he automatically started gently caressing it. He did stay there for several minutes, then looked me deep in the eyes. His own were filled almost to the brim with venom as he choked out, “I promise you, Goddess... I will stay as full as I possibly can, to prove to myself and everyone here, that I mean no harm to anyone.”
He stepped forward then. Though I didn't feel as angry, knowing their intentions were at least honest, I knew I was still on shaky ground with my powers and emotions. I had to get this last bit out before I begged Major to take me away, though. I looked to the coven of three, saying seriously, “You will not be within range of the humans here unaccompanied unless you have recently fed... by that, I mean within an hour or two of their arrival... until you prove to me and the humans that you can control your thirst. It may sound harsh, but that is the reality you stepped into. Any human here is important to the cause, and needs to be deemed just as important as any other ally in your way of thinking.”
I looked at Charlie, who was just barely visible behind my mates, and held my hand out. He came to me, clinging to my hand as I said to the three, “This man? This human? He's my biological father. His mate is one of the elders of the Quileute tribe. They helped me control my powers before I was turned. That little power display you just witnessed? That would have killed at least one person or shifter in this yard before their help. Think about that... about what connection to one of us any human in your presence has, before your senses overtake you. Any human you come in contact in a protected zone will be important to the cause in some way.”
I turned to the assembled vampires around the yard before saying unyieldingly, “That goes for not only this coven, but all of you. Any vampire here should be well fed at all times. There are no excuses, because you all know the elders, my father, or even the shifter mates might show up here at any given moment. The first one of you who make a single threatening step toward a human while under my protection, will be made example of in front of everyone. Do. I. Make. Myself. Clear!”
The ground rumbled underneath me dangerously during my last sentence, so Major tightened his arms around me slightly as I heard a shocked chorus of, “Yes, Goddess,” from every single vampire in the yard.
That was officially my breaking point. I looked up to Major with pleading eyes as I dropped Charlie's hand. He immediately took control, barking out, “Carlisle, you're in charge of the vampires for now. Make sure they get fed. Jake ‘ll command the shifters through the mind link. My mate needs a break. Kota, Nate... go get our gift. Set it up in the center of the open space in our cabin bedroom. Now!”
He took my chin between his fingers again, looked deep in my eyes, then said, “Stay with me, Isabella. Listen to my voice. Concentrate on me. I'm takin' ya right now to make it better.”
SpyPOV
I have known for a very long time that the Volturi were corrupt. My mate's death at the hands of Aro himself was proof. I would have killed him then, had it not been for my only true friend at the time, Eleazar. He helped me see that there was something deeper going on... that there was more to Aro's deception than what was on the surface.
My mate had somehow found out about a prophecy involving a true elemental, along with Aro's twisting of that prophecy in his mind to suit his own gain. Not that of the Volturi, mind you -or even the vampire race in general- but his personal gain. He had her killed for her knowledge, then made it look like an attack, as we were at war at the time. Eleazar explained to me the whole truth, over a span of a week of secret meetings. Thus, our alliance was born.
Since that time so long ago, I have outwardly looked to be deeply grieving and unaware of my surroundings. Inside, though, my life has been completely altered by Eleazar's truth. He showed me scrolls that had been stolen by Aro's little witch twins, from tribes in different regions. All point to this Elemental Goddess being a force of justice and right in our world. So while I may have outwardly looked unaware all of this time, deep in my own grief, I have actually been planning the downfall of the Volturi... and Aro himself.
With my motivation, it did not take me long to conquer the problem of evading Aro's touch. The actual bone-deep ache of being without my mate was enough to keep him from searching my thoughts, after I purposely forced it at him several times. I have always been diligent in making sure my thoughts are clear. Any time I sensed Aro, my grief was brought to the forefront, just in case. The time has come near, though. The goddess has shown herself, and my alliance will help her become the leader she is meant to be.
I made my way stealthily to the abandoned portion of the castle reserved for only my use, for when my grief takes over, as Aro deemed it. It was actually my idea, when Eleazar and I were worried about our communications being overheard. I had punched through a wall in my frustration, and the idea was formed.
Since then, I have purposely come here... let myself rage loudly about my mates death, breaking things and making the whole area as destroyed looking as possible, without actually harming the structure.
When I reached my safe zone and made sure there was no one in range, I let a breath out in relief. I shook my head at the mess surrounding my feet, then pulled what Eleazar called a burn phone from my pocket. I quickly pressed the button to connect to him, waiting only two rings before he greeted me. “Hello, my friend. All is well?”
I replied as I moved to my chair, “I have news. Aro has dispatched three of the guard. Rumors have finally reached the castle, I'm afraid.”
I heard Eleazar speaking softly to Carlisle in the background, offering, “My contact in the Volturi stronghold. Felix, Jane, and Demitri have finally been sent out to find the Goddess, and put a permanent halt to the so-called threat she poses the vampire world. Notify everyone to be on their guard.”
When Eleazar came back on the line, I sighed, knowing the Goddess must have seen this coming. “She knows? Good. I wanted to warn you, just in case. Have you had much success in the way of allies?”
He hummed softly, then offered with a pleased tone, “Yes, much. The shaman did some magics to help call allies to the Goddess. We are now nine tribes strong, other than the original wolves. As for vampires, we have a newly-arrived Swedish coven of three, who had the life scared out of them when the Goddess came out in full force. We also have 13 of Major's crew. All are fighters, escaped from Maria's army over the years. Then we have Garrett and Randall, Alistair, my coven, and the Cullen coven. We are still expecting the Irish coven, some from Germany, the Romanians -which you know have rebuilt their forces- and a few others. I heard Carlisle saying something about the Amazon coven and another set of shifters from there, as well as the Egyptians. I do not believe the latter will show themselves until the final battle, though.”
This was good news... very good news. “Well done... and the first battle?”
He commented quickly, “The coming new moon. I have to tell you, my friend, the Goddess' powers are considerably stronger than even we have seen during training. I still need to work with her on her shield, but there are energy-blocking protective fields around each of our safe zones. As long as no one leaves a protective field, the only energy signature given off is the one of the barrier itself. Demetri's power will be useless in tracking anyone within a protected zone.”
I had to stifle a laugh at that, but my amusement at this knowledge was clear in my voice, “Nicely done. Please be safe my friend, and work with the Goddess on her shield as quickly as possible. I would hate for something to happen to any of you.”
Just then, I heard little Alice Masen-Cullen speaking to Eleazar in a rushed whisper. He made a confirming noise, then asked me seriously, “We have the means to make vampire-proof cells. The Goddess will need something from you to make the process work, please, if it is feasible. We need all of the venom you can safely smuggle out of the castle and ship to us.”
I nodded, knowing that this would be an issue at some point. I was thankful to be prepared for such a favor. “It is done, My Friend. I will send a quick text with only the expected arrival date and time, once I know for certain.”
He thanked me profusely, but I knew my time on the phone was coming to an end. I ended the call with wishes for them all to be well, contenting myself that they were safe for the time being, and it wouldn't be long until I was free of this hell.
As we checked on each site, I was pleased with the progress, both with the bunkhouses and everyone working so well together. I made a mental note of who was where, curious as to why we had a few crew missing. I made a comment about it, to which Major offered, “Kota is a smith. It helps her, in times of stress, to work with metal. She asked Carlisle if she could build a small workstation on the grounds. We saw no reason to not give her an area to use away from the bunkhouses. She and a few others are workin’ on buildin’ her smelter and forge.”
I was shocked at this news for some reason, but also intrigued. “So she's a metal smith? Like building weapons and stuff? I wonder if she wouldn't mind doing some special work for us.”
He rose an eyebrow, so I chuckled, “Now that I'm a vampire goddess with elemental powers, our playroom might need some stronger bindings, My Love.”
He let out a sexy chuckle, wrapped his arm around my waist as I heard Charlie and Sue both snicker, then kissed my neck. “Always thinkin', Isabella. We'll stop and talk to her about it after we check the last of the sites.”
Just as we reached the last -and smallest- site, I noticed Alistair talking with a beautiful Native American female. They both looked happy, so I let them alone, smiling at Charlie while whispering so only our small group could hear, “That's Alistair, over there with the female off to the side. Try not to push him. I want to coax him out of his shell, not force him out. My goddess is telling me we'll be in need of him down the road, and not only for his gift. Plus, he cared enough about Carlisle to actually leave his home in England and travel here.”
Dad and Sue both nodded seriously in response. Just then, I caught our missing crew members headed our way. I smiled at them, asking happily, “Kota? Did you get to finish everything you needed?”
She beamed at me, “Yes, Goddess. Thank you. I feel right at home now. We were even able to make something for you and Major. Would you like to join us in my workshop?”
I looked up to Major, who offered, “Of course, there's somethin' we wanted to talk to ya about, anyway.”
We all followed them at a human pace, since Charlie and Sue were still with us. I beamed as I saw her new space. “This is amazing, Kota.”
Charlie gave a wholehearted agreement, then she looked as if she'd be blushing while she said, “Yeah, it's perfect. When Carlisle told us which direction to run, I never expected to find this. I guess this used to be an old summer kitchen and food storage place.”
Major nodded before offering, “Esme couldn't see tearin' it down, but couldn't find a use for it.”
I looked around the outside, then back to Kota. “Will it fit your needs?”
She beamed, “Yes, definitely. My smelter is inside, on the other side of the forge. There's plenty of room inside, and there's also a decent sized room upstairs. Actually, that's one of the things I wanted to ask you. Would you mind Nate and me making this our place? If you need us rooming closer, that's fine.”
I looked to Major and felt his acceptance, so I said, “Sure. As long as the two of you will be comfortable here, I don't see why not. It's inside the protective field, so you're safe, plus it'll give you room to work when you feel the need.”
She beamed at me, then looked to Major. “I'd like to show you your surprise, if you'll come inside.”
Kota led the way inside. My hand went to my throat as I gasped at the first thing my eyes spotted. It was a beautiful dual St. Andrew’s cross, with a padded-topped straddling horse in between the two sides of the cross. My eyes teared up without notice, then suddenly Major was holding me while Kota explained. “We heard how much you missed Major's cross in Texas, Goddess. I know this isn't an exact replica, but maybe this will ease a bit of the stress on both of you.”
Major lifted my chin to look in my eyes, then smiled slightly as he said, “You alright, Isabella?”
I grinned, “Yes, Major. Obsidian. Just surprised... and very grateful.”
He released my chin with a nod, then I turned in his arms to say, “Thank you, so much, Kota. I'll be sure to thank you again after we try it out.”
Major smirked at me when Sue chuckled, “Better hope she doesn't act out on purpose, just so you'll spend time with her, now that the excuse of not having a cross is out.”
His smirk widened in response as he replied, “My Isabella's a good girl, aren't ya? Ya know there's no need to act out to get whatcha want.”
I chuckled, remembering the last time I acted out, “Yes, Sir. Lesson learned. All I have to do is ask, and you'll give it to me when you feel ready to. No brattiness needed.”
Charlie mumbled, “Smart girl, my daughter,” to Sue as Kota said, “I'll leave it to you to have it moved, now that it is officially yours. The rings are all venom infused to strengthen them. I used a low amount of Alice's, since she knew about the project and is intimately connected to the four of you. I'm already working on new cuffs and stronger bindings to go with it.”
My eyes went wide at that, then I remembered the vampire-proof cells. I turned to face her fully in a swift movement. “Oh... oh wow... the cells. Kota, you're brilliant. We need vampire-proof cells built. Edward knows the process, as the shaman gave it to him before we left the meeting. Would you be able to make them?”
She grinned, then nodded, “I know the process of making metal vampire-proof from my human time with my tribe. I'll just need the original metal you want used, some specific herbs blessed from your elders, a high quantity of venom, and it would do well for you to add a spell while I'm working the venom into the metal.”
I frowned at that, then said, “I don't want our allies giving venom to the cause, though. It will deplete them, if you need a large quantity, especially as we need them made as soon as possible.”
Just then, Jake rubbed his muzzle into my side. I groaned as I felt the grounding sensation from the Earth. “Uggh, looks like our cross time will have to wait just a bit longer, Major. We have incoming.”
Just as we reached the outside again, Aleksei came sliding to a stop in front of us. Major nodded as he patted his slightly winded side. “Company, Aleksei. Nothin’ to be alarmed about yet.”
He quickly flipped onto Aleksei's back, then said gently, “Charlie, Sue, I'd like one of ya to ride with me, please. The other will ride with Isabella on Jake. We need to get to the front yard, and still have to meet up with the others.”
Charlie walked with Sue over to Aleksei, kissed her softly once, then placed her hand in Major's. He walked over to me once Sue was settled in front of Major, so I guided, “Sit in front of me, please. That way if anything happens, I already have my arms around you, and can compensate.”
He nodded, so I helped him onto Jake's back before climbing on myself.
On the way, I made sure that Jake had called everyone through the mind link, and Major had notified Edward to rally the vamps. We made it to the front yard quickly.
As Alice went to help Sue down, Edward helped Charlie down. They guided them into the protective V made by the companion wolves, along with the rest of the elders and Cullens, while the other vamps and packs spread out. I got a cautious feeling, so I knew I would have to be firm with the newcomers right off the bat. I hurried to warn my mates, Jake, and Aleksei in a rushed whisper, then immediately called out as I felt three vampires enter the protective field, “You will identify yourselves before you make another step, or that step will be your last.”
I could practically feel everyone's confusion, but this was needed for some reason. My Goddess wouldn't let me back down. Instantly, my arms shot out in front of me, my elements swirling the brightest I'd ever seen them. The full force of the ultimate Goddess rang in my voice as I called, “Three... two...”
I didn't even get to one before I heard a tentative voice say in a distinct Swedish accent, “My name is Olivia, and my companions are Matteo and Sebastian. We are here seeking our friends, of the Cullen coven.”
I turned and saw recognition in Edward's eyes. After he mouthed 'Sweden', I turned back to say, “If you mean us no harm, you may enter the front yard, but come no further. Know that your intentions will be tested, and your lives will be forfeit if you harm any on protected land.”
I never expected my hackles to raise at the mere sight of the three vampires who entered the clearing, but when they stopped just inside the treeline, my elements flared wildly as I hissed, “YOU! Your bloodlust will be the downfall of us all! The lives that will be lost will not stop at yours, if you can't contain your thirst!”
Major gasped, so I growled as I answered his unasked question, “They're the ones that I had the vision of, Major. The ones that caused us to lose everything!”
I turned back to the three, my elements and shield both flaring wildly as dismounted Jake. I stalked forward. The ultimate goddess made no qualms about her voice ringing throughout the clearing as the elements made a beautiful but deadly show around the space, “State your true intentions here, now, or witness the wrath of the Goddess.”
I felt Jake crouch and growl at my side when I stopped a mere ten feet from the newcomers. I watched them tremble and drop to their knees as they witnessed but a mere fraction of my true power.
The female tried to speak, but her voice cracked and gave out on the first word, so one of the males spoke. His voice still wasn't stable, sounding similar to a teen boy's during puberty, but he finally forced out, “I swear on my life, Goddess. We mean no harm. We are peaceful vampires. Whispers are everywhere abroad. We had started making our way to the gathering, since the Italians have been causing a lot of problems for vampires lately, when we received a phone call from our friend Esme. We connected the dots after her call, and knew we needed to make haste. I swear to you that we have no intention to harm anyone. What did you see happening exactly?”
I didn't calm, even with Major sending me only honesty, curiosity, and a shit ton of fear. I let out an internal breath to stay level-headed, but said seriously, “Whether you mean no harm or not, unless you promise me that you will keep yourselves glutted on donated blood while here, I can not allow you to stay. I'm sorry, but we are in constant contact with the human elders of the Quileute wolf tribe, as well as my human father. I will not risk their lives, or the lives of the townspeople. I saw the three of you killing a human female who unintentionally bled, which caused the wolves to retaliate, and ultimately many lives were lost. My unborn sons were two of those lost.”
Their eyes about popped out of their head, then suddenly Aleksei was crouched and growling right alongside Jake, while Major was holding my hand in comfort. He knew how touchy this subject was for me, and my emotions were all over the place. I was the closest I'd been to an episode since my turning, which was never a good thing.
The female looked at me in horror, choking out, “Oh, God... babies? I swear, Goddess... We will keep ourselves as full as possible while here. I would never want to harm a child, let alone an unborn baby. I give you my word.”
I shook my head, not willing to take the promise from only one of three, “Your companions will have to agree aloud also, Olivia.”
I looked from one male to the other, both looked as if they would be crying if they could produce tears. They both immediately agreed, so I said one last thing, “This is your only warning. We have a steady supply of donated blood coming in, which will be warmed to temperature for any vampire here upon asking for it. There will also be some in your quarters, within easy reach, once those quarters are built. The first time I see you eye a human as if they're food, or my mate feels your blood lust, I will kill you myself without a second thought. We are working too hard to make sure everyone bonds with the other allies, so that we all live through the coming battles. I won't hesitate to take out anyone I feel is becoming a threat to that outcome.”
I suddenly heard every being in the entire clearing gasp, the three in front of me curling up as they cried out. I looked to Major, who shook his head, trying to remain in control. “I can't control it, Isabella. It's natural for me to share your emotions when you're in this state. Look at me, now. Ya need to calm down. What color, Isabella?”
I shook my head, knowing I was nearing my snapping point, then whispered, “Yellow, Major... but we need to get through this before anything else happens.”
Major growled slightly, then barked at the three curled up on the ground, “Do ya see what your actions could cause? Those are my mate's feelin's... her love for every bein' in this clearin', her fear for our unborn sons, her determination to have everyone live through this, and her hope for a brighter future for all supernaturals. You're feelin' all the despair she felt durin' the vision, when not only her friend died, but several of her protector's wolves. If we can't count on ya to try your damnedest to get along with everyone here and keep your thirst under control, we will never win the first battle, let alone the other two. Our sons will never be born! Tell me now that ya could live with that on your conscience!”
Without giving them another look, Major turned back to me, taking my chin between his fingers. The elements sporadically shot around the clearing in a deadly dance; earth air, fire, and water all showing their glory to those in attendance. Major said in a deadly serious tone, “Isabella, calm! Now, damn it. Listen to me. Think of Jaiden and Preston. This isn't good for them. Match your breathin' to mine, and let's get these elements to dissipate. We've made our point, and they’ll be good li’l vampires now. Right?”
He shot the last part to the vampires, who immediately nodded with the promise that they wouldn't make any trouble. I took a few shaky breaths, then tried my hardest to listen to Major. I concentrated on his chest, the air flowing steadily in and out as I rested my trembling hands on it, but it took several minutes for the elements to start calming around the clearing.
Major kept his focus only on me, encouraging me to focus on him, then finally brought my body flush with his. He traced my elements in synch with his breathing, letting his breath fan over my face. That worked, then I saw earth splits, wildfires, water shoots, and tornadoes fizzing to nothing around the clearing from my peripheral vision.
I was still extremely shaky, but Major said the perfect thing to help me through. “Concentrate for me, Isabella. I need ya to listen to me. I need ya to right the front yard, then test the Swedish coven by havin' them cross your shield. I could feel the truth in their words, Isabella... they honestly don't wanna hurt our sons, or your friend. Do this for me, then I'll take ya back to our cabin to set ya right. Just you and me. Now what's your color, Isabella?”
My voice was shaky, but I managed fairly well after clearing my throat. “Yellow, Major, but I can do it. Just you and me?”
He nodded, “Yeah. Just you and me. The rest of our immediate group will be there, of course, but this will be our time. They won't interfere.”
I nodded, took a deep breath, then let it out while looking into my Major's eyes. “I'm ready.”
I turned toward the house, then noticed that everyone seemed accounted for and unhurt, which I was grateful for. I swiped my hands slowly through the air, watching all of the previous destruction from my meltdown fade away as the front yard righted itself.
I turned back to the three vampires, who were all still curled in on themselves, though not nearly as tightly as before. I let out a breath, then said, “Olivia, Matteo, and Sebastian... if you truly mean what you say, and will keep to your promises, you will be able to cross into my shield. Those of you that pass this test will be welcome here, those that do not will not leave this clearing alive. You know the risks, now... have felt my emotions on the subject... so there is no middle ground. Come to me in the order I just called your names, but only when given the signal, one at a time.”
They got to their feet hesitantly. When Olivia looked at me, I nodded. She slowly stepped forward, placed both shaky hands on my shield, then spread them out as she walked forward close enough that her cheek touched it in a sort of hug. She stayed there for a long moment. After kissing my shield, she took a deep breath, then walked forward... all with her eyes closed. Her arms came down to her sides as she opened her eyes to look at me, and I could hear both her companions sighing in relief. I nodded to her, directed her to stand on the other side of Major, then nodded for Matteo to come forward.
Matteo came forward more slowly than Olivia had, but when he was within reaching distance, he gently brushed his hands down my shield as he knelt in front of it. His forehead rested against the shimmering barrier for a long moment, then he stretched his torso forward so that he was fully bowed to me with his hands outstretched.
After a few seconds, I called for him to go stand next to his coven mate, then gave Sebastian the signal to come forward. He wasn't as hesitant nearing my shield as the other two, and he automatically started gently caressing it. He did stay there for several minutes, then looked me deep in the eyes. His own were filled almost to the brim with venom as he choked out, “I promise you, Goddess... I will stay as full as I possibly can, to prove to myself and everyone here, that I mean no harm to anyone.”
He stepped forward then. Though I didn't feel as angry, knowing their intentions were at least honest, I knew I was still on shaky ground with my powers and emotions. I had to get this last bit out before I begged Major to take me away, though. I looked to the coven of three, saying seriously, “You will not be within range of the humans here unaccompanied unless you have recently fed... by that, I mean within an hour or two of their arrival... until you prove to me and the humans that you can control your thirst. It may sound harsh, but that is the reality you stepped into. Any human here is important to the cause, and needs to be deemed just as important as any other ally in your way of thinking.”
I looked at Charlie, who was just barely visible behind my mates, and held my hand out. He came to me, clinging to my hand as I said to the three, “This man? This human? He's my biological father. His mate is one of the elders of the Quileute tribe. They helped me control my powers before I was turned. That little power display you just witnessed? That would have killed at least one person or shifter in this yard before their help. Think about that... about what connection to one of us any human in your presence has, before your senses overtake you. Any human you come in contact in a protected zone will be important to the cause in some way.”
I turned to the assembled vampires around the yard before saying unyieldingly, “That goes for not only this coven, but all of you. Any vampire here should be well fed at all times. There are no excuses, because you all know the elders, my father, or even the shifter mates might show up here at any given moment. The first one of you who make a single threatening step toward a human while under my protection, will be made example of in front of everyone. Do. I. Make. Myself. Clear!”
The ground rumbled underneath me dangerously during my last sentence, so Major tightened his arms around me slightly as I heard a shocked chorus of, “Yes, Goddess,” from every single vampire in the yard.
That was officially my breaking point. I looked up to Major with pleading eyes as I dropped Charlie's hand. He immediately took control, barking out, “Carlisle, you're in charge of the vampires for now. Make sure they get fed. Jake ‘ll command the shifters through the mind link. My mate needs a break. Kota, Nate... go get our gift. Set it up in the center of the open space in our cabin bedroom. Now!”
He took my chin between his fingers again, looked deep in my eyes, then said, “Stay with me, Isabella. Listen to my voice. Concentrate on me. I'm takin' ya right now to make it better.”
SpyPOV
I have known for a very long time that the Volturi were corrupt. My mate's death at the hands of Aro himself was proof. I would have killed him then, had it not been for my only true friend at the time, Eleazar. He helped me see that there was something deeper going on... that there was more to Aro's deception than what was on the surface.
My mate had somehow found out about a prophecy involving a true elemental, along with Aro's twisting of that prophecy in his mind to suit his own gain. Not that of the Volturi, mind you -or even the vampire race in general- but his personal gain. He had her killed for her knowledge, then made it look like an attack, as we were at war at the time. Eleazar explained to me the whole truth, over a span of a week of secret meetings. Thus, our alliance was born.
Since that time so long ago, I have outwardly looked to be deeply grieving and unaware of my surroundings. Inside, though, my life has been completely altered by Eleazar's truth. He showed me scrolls that had been stolen by Aro's little witch twins, from tribes in different regions. All point to this Elemental Goddess being a force of justice and right in our world. So while I may have outwardly looked unaware all of this time, deep in my own grief, I have actually been planning the downfall of the Volturi... and Aro himself.
With my motivation, it did not take me long to conquer the problem of evading Aro's touch. The actual bone-deep ache of being without my mate was enough to keep him from searching my thoughts, after I purposely forced it at him several times. I have always been diligent in making sure my thoughts are clear. Any time I sensed Aro, my grief was brought to the forefront, just in case. The time has come near, though. The goddess has shown herself, and my alliance will help her become the leader she is meant to be.
I made my way stealthily to the abandoned portion of the castle reserved for only my use, for when my grief takes over, as Aro deemed it. It was actually my idea, when Eleazar and I were worried about our communications being overheard. I had punched through a wall in my frustration, and the idea was formed.
Since then, I have purposely come here... let myself rage loudly about my mates death, breaking things and making the whole area as destroyed looking as possible, without actually harming the structure.
When I reached my safe zone and made sure there was no one in range, I let a breath out in relief. I shook my head at the mess surrounding my feet, then pulled what Eleazar called a burn phone from my pocket. I quickly pressed the button to connect to him, waiting only two rings before he greeted me. “Hello, my friend. All is well?”
I replied as I moved to my chair, “I have news. Aro has dispatched three of the guard. Rumors have finally reached the castle, I'm afraid.”
I heard Eleazar speaking softly to Carlisle in the background, offering, “My contact in the Volturi stronghold. Felix, Jane, and Demitri have finally been sent out to find the Goddess, and put a permanent halt to the so-called threat she poses the vampire world. Notify everyone to be on their guard.”
When Eleazar came back on the line, I sighed, knowing the Goddess must have seen this coming. “She knows? Good. I wanted to warn you, just in case. Have you had much success in the way of allies?”
He hummed softly, then offered with a pleased tone, “Yes, much. The shaman did some magics to help call allies to the Goddess. We are now nine tribes strong, other than the original wolves. As for vampires, we have a newly-arrived Swedish coven of three, who had the life scared out of them when the Goddess came out in full force. We also have 13 of Major's crew. All are fighters, escaped from Maria's army over the years. Then we have Garrett and Randall, Alistair, my coven, and the Cullen coven. We are still expecting the Irish coven, some from Germany, the Romanians -which you know have rebuilt their forces- and a few others. I heard Carlisle saying something about the Amazon coven and another set of shifters from there, as well as the Egyptians. I do not believe the latter will show themselves until the final battle, though.”
This was good news... very good news. “Well done... and the first battle?”
He commented quickly, “The coming new moon. I have to tell you, my friend, the Goddess' powers are considerably stronger than even we have seen during training. I still need to work with her on her shield, but there are energy-blocking protective fields around each of our safe zones. As long as no one leaves a protective field, the only energy signature given off is the one of the barrier itself. Demetri's power will be useless in tracking anyone within a protected zone.”
I had to stifle a laugh at that, but my amusement at this knowledge was clear in my voice, “Nicely done. Please be safe my friend, and work with the Goddess on her shield as quickly as possible. I would hate for something to happen to any of you.”
Just then, I heard little Alice Masen-Cullen speaking to Eleazar in a rushed whisper. He made a confirming noise, then asked me seriously, “We have the means to make vampire-proof cells. The Goddess will need something from you to make the process work, please, if it is feasible. We need all of the venom you can safely smuggle out of the castle and ship to us.”
I nodded, knowing that this would be an issue at some point. I was thankful to be prepared for such a favor. “It is done, My Friend. I will send a quick text with only the expected arrival date and time, once I know for certain.”
He thanked me profusely, but I knew my time on the phone was coming to an end. I ended the call with wishes for them all to be well, contenting myself that they were safe for the time being, and it wouldn't be long until I was free of this hell.