Elemental Goddess
by: Wizardtho
Chapter 78: Working Out The Kinks
BPOV:
It seemed as though my rant on the field had actually done some good. I knew I had sounded harsh, but there was no time to coddle anyone when lives were at stake. I wasn't going to risk anyone's life in a battle, just because I was afraid to hurt someone's feelings. If I had to be brash to get my point across, or even down-right rude, so be it.
My only worry was my father, since he'd never seen me act in such a violent manner, but I pushed that worry to the back of my mind during training. There were several times that Sue or one of the elders gave suggestions on what I could make happen, though, which I gladly worked into my elemental arsenal.
After a decent round with both teams of shifters, I noted internally that even I was improving at working my mojo while my mates fought on the field, so I called break. My chest was aching fiercely, plus I needed to restore my energy reserves. Jake nudged me gently after I dismounted, so I nodded while patting his muzzle, “I know. Just as soon as Carlisle comes over, I'll have him look over me to ease everyone's nerves, then someone can feed.”
He nodded, then rested himself on the ground in the shade. I took my place in the cradle of his curled up side as Charlie came to sit in front of me. I smiled, but he asked worriedly, “Are you sure you're okay? I heard what you said to Jake, Princess.”
I nodded, taking his hand in mine, “I'm positive, Dad. I know I'm okay, but it'll ease everyone's minds if Carlisle has a look at the three of us. I'm just a little uncomfortable because it's been too long since anyone's fed. I'll be good to go after that, honestly.”
He nodded, then asked, “Do you have to go back to the house for that?”
I shook my head, then smiled, “Ali is making me amazing clothes, Dad. Ones that I can take care of these moments in, without flashing my whole chest to the world. I'll be able to let my mates or any of the Cullens feed right here against Jake, while still respectably holding conversations with everyone else.”
He looked at me oddly for a second, then let out a small, “Huh.”
I chuckled as he asked, “How does that work exactly. I mean... geesh... I know how nursing works, but I don't think your top is quite nursing friendly, kiddo.”
I chuckled, then said, “I would have agreed with you a few hours ago when Alice first showed it to me, but see the tiny hidden clips here?”
I turned one of the straps to show him, and he nodded. “The chest part of my top is actually two layers. The outer layer unhooks at the strap and unties at the middle, so it can be let down. Then the bottom of the underlayer can slide to make a triangle-shaped opening. That way the top and the sides of my chest on the open side are covered for modesty, along with the whole of the other side, while still allowing me to do what needs done. Ali's really a lifesaver with this stuff, Dad.”
He nodded, then said, “I guess so. All the same, I think I'll go talk to some of the others while you tend to whoever. It's one thing to know about you feeding your mates and the Cullens, but it's another thing to see it up close. I don't know if I'm quite that comfortable yet.”
I just chuckled while patting his leg in understanding.
Carlisle and my mates were to me before Charlie even thought to get up. I smiled up at them from my position. Charlie moved so that Carlisle would have room to look me over, so he knelt down in front of me, offering, “I'm being indulged again, aren't I, Honey?”
I chuckled with a nod, so he said, “You know we can't help but worry, Dear. Let's see how the three of you are doing, shall we?”
I agreed, then he lifted my top above my belly before placing his hands on it to feel around gently. The babies started moving at his gentle prodding, so he gave my baby bump a smile as he said, “Ah, there you are, boys. Are you saying hi?”
After another second of feeling around, he placed my top in its original position, then took my wrist in his hand. He monitored my pulse for a minute, then said, “No cramps or pains? No uncomfortable feelings?”
I shook my head, “Not at all. Even though my mates tend to forget it, they would be the first to know through our bond if there was something to worry about.”
I gave them a smirk. Carlisle chuckled along with Charlie at their suddenly sheepish looks. I chuckled, “I love you three immensely, but you know it's true. You feel them through my bonds with you. You would know the same instant that I would, if something weren't right. As Jake would say, 'Chillax'.”
Jake rumbled out a wolfy laugh at that, which officially had everyone relaxing, until I let out a groan and wrapped my arm against my chest.
Carlisle immediately noticed, of course. “Who would you like me to get for you, Honey. You shouldn't hold off like this.”
I nodded, then said, “I know. I was just waiting for you to finish the mini checkup. Jasper was greedy this morning, so I'm going to spend a little cuddle time with Char and Peter.”
He nodded, kissed my lips tenderly for a brief moment, then stood. Charlie offered to walk with him, then Peter and Char were curling up against Jake on either side of me. Jasper knelt to pull me into a loving kiss, which blocked everyone from Char and Peter settling in to feed, saying when our lips parted, “Rest for a bit, Darlin. I'm gonna Major back up to speak to some of our allies about their techniques.”
I nodded, then he gave both Char and Peter a nuzzle before he walked away.
I soaked up my time with Peter and Char, caressing and nuzzling them often, whispering my love to them almost constantly. Love and tenderness flowed back and forth between our bonds, so I barely noticed Charlie watching us or edging closer.
When I finally did, I smiled up at him before waving him over. He hesitantly came to sit at my feet, asking, “You sure it's alright? I'm not interrupting?”
I shook my head, giving Char and Peter both a kiss on the top of the head, “Nope. Not at all. I always have time for you, Dad. Never forget that. Now how are you doing with everything? My speech earlier didn't have you wanting to bolt, did it?”
Charlie actually laughed, then ran a hand through his hair while he got his thinking look. I waited patiently, stroking my fingers lazily up and down my mates' spines, then he offered, “Look, Bells. It's like this. So, yeah, I'm not used to this side of you yet... but it was still you out there. You might have cussed and vented, practically reaming everyone a new one, but you weren't the only one who expected more out on that field. Every one of the elders did, too, along with your mates. You made them see their mistakes, and you made it damn clear that you were doing it to make sure they lived through this mess. Was your wording a bit harsh? Maybe... but it was also exactly what they needed. You saw the results. Sometimes, that's the only way to make a point. Police chief, remember?”
I chuckled with a nod, “Yeah, I know. I'm not second guessing myself, Dad, just making sure you're still doing okay with it all. You know you can come talk to me if you need to, right?”
After a sincere agreement, Charlie looked down at my mates, a soft smile overtaking his features. I waited to see how well he was taking it, then he looked up to see me watching him. His smile grew slightly, then he said, “It's not how I thought I'd feel, seeing them like that. It's hard to explain, but you exude more of the goddess at times like this. You're still my little girl, always will be, but I understand the purposes and reasons behind it. Tending to their thirst, keeping the volume up for the babies, making sure that they get both the things they need, not having the luxury of waiting when it's time, and having to manage with all this chaos around you 24/7... well, I'm just glad Alice's is in your corner to make those times easier for you to deal with.”
I was pleased he was doing so well, so I relaxed to let my mates finish feeding. It was only a few minutes later when both Peter and Char brought their hands up enough to start sliding my under layer back into place. Two draws later, they both licked the bite marks gently, released my nipples without moving their heads, then finished closing my under layer.
Char moved to nuzzle my neck as Peter kissed over my heart. When they moved to lay against my sides, my top was completely righted. I kissed them both on the lips, whispering, “Thank you, my loves. All better.”
With a nod from each, they settled back next to me, with Charlie chuckling, “Smooth. I'll be the first to admit that. That wasn't just for my benefit, so what's up?”
Peter chuckled, then said honestly, “There are only a select few we trust, Charlie. Those few have been gifted privileges, but that's as far as our tolerance goes. Add in all of these people here, whose main focus is naturally going to be our mate, and we're downright tense. We're protective creatures by nature, since we're only given one shot at a forever mate. We don't want our mates being seen by those who haven't been given permission to. So no, it wasn't just for you. The same would have happened with any other supernatural or human sitting here.”
After giving both my mates an indulgent kiss, I sat up to squeeze Charlie's hand briefly. “Well, I don't know about you, but I need to get back to work, right after I energize. I don't want to let my reserves get much lower, in case these two little ones need an unexpected burst.”
Peter and Char both scooted quickly to give me room. I chuckled before assuming my lotus position. I opened myself to the earth, and was soon maxed out. Just before I was ready to pull back, I felt a slightly uneasy flutter. I didn't know what to make of it, but when I opened my eyes, my instincts were nagging at me.
I whipped around as soon as my eyes popped open, ignoring the slight gasps from my mates, to press my forehead to Jake's. “What's happening? Something's not right. I don't have any alarms going off, Jake, so you've gotta give me something.”
The field suddenly went deathly still, but I closed my eyes to concentrate on only Jake. Our breaths slowly synced, and then I suddenly felt that same uneasy feeling. It had me completely baffled, so I opened my eyes to stare into his. After several seconds of searching his eyes, which were full of concern, I called out without moving, “Edward!”
He knelt next to me a split second later. I said softly, “Something's off. I'm getting a slightly uneasy feeling from both the earth and Jake, when I concentrate on him, but I don't have any warning alarms. Is he getting anything?”
Edward sat, scratched Jake's muzzle as he listened, then his brows furrowed. “He says that the Siberia, Russia tribe... the white tigers... have been hard to keep track of the whole time, but it's almost like they've been purposely popping up at certain intervals, so that Ali or you would be able to see them. He thinks they know more of the legends than even the Quileute tribe, by the way they've been acting.”
He sat listening to Jake again for a second before continuing, “From what Jake's been able to gather, they should have been in state the last time they were supposed to pop up, but they didn't make themselves known at the interval they've been keeping. He's not worried yet, Sweetheart, but if they don't pop up within the next few hours, they may have hit trouble.”
I shook my head, then said to Jake, “I want to be notified as soon as you hear anything, especially since we don't have eyes on the Volturi tracker or Jane.”
He nodded, then Edward offered, “He will... and says he thinks the two of you should enter the fray in the field, since the groups are doing much better. You'll need to be able to work the elements while in the middle of it all, Sweetheart. Just remember that most of your time in battle will be on his back, not the ground.”
I nodded to both of them, then looked at the elders, who were walking toward us. Sue took Charlie's hand comfortingly as Sam asked, “Sister?”
I shook my head, “The tiger tribe hasn't popped up. They were supposed to have done so already, from what Jake's been able to track of them. I've got a slightly uneasy feeling, but no alarms. If we don't hear from them within the next few hours, they may have run into trouble.”
He nodded seriously, then said, “I agree with what Edward and Jake suggested, as far as the field. I heard that part. You need to feel out what it will be like to have the elements all around you on the battlefield, work with them in the middle of the chaos, so to speak. We can't have your first time experiencing it that way be during the actual battle, Sister.”
I nodded, then asked Peter, “Let Major know everything, please. I'll need to synch myself further with Jake for a few minutes before we begin. Let him know that mixed groups should try to attack us, while a few others should be already fighting each other on the field.”
I stood to hug Charlie, making him promise to stay with the elders under the shelter of the tree. He did right away, so I turned to Jake. I pressed my forehead to his, whispering as I stroked his large muzzle, “Looks like the time has come, huh? Seems like everything we've done so far was to prepare us for this. All this chaos and upheaval. I don't say it nearly enough, Jake, but I love you. We can do this. We know each other inside and out, we're a part of each other, so let’s go show all of them how it's supposed to be done.”
I closed my eyes, centered myself in Jake and the elements for several minutes, then opened my eyes and kissed his nose, offering, “Ready?”
He nodded, then I mounted his back in one fluid back flip. I settled in, then let the power flow through my every nerve, causing my eyes to change to the swirling silver of the ultimate goddess.
I heard several slight gasps as Jake and I came forward a few steps, but saw Major looked to me and nod before giving everyone the signal to start their individual battles. I tightened my legs around Jake's ribs slightly, stilled the air on the whole field, then started a few mini tornadoes on the field as I gave Jake the signal to go.
As soon as we hit the fray running, I started sporadic fires around the clearing, then felt Jake starting to twist to go against the first attacker. My body automatically compensated, keeping me seated on his back. Just as Jake downed the first two, I jumped straight up to miss a vampire flying at my waist, made a sinkhole to stop another vampire coming at Jake, and flipped midair to kick at falcon getting ready to grab my shoulders with his talons, directing him right toward one of the tornadoes.
As soon as I slid onto Jake's back in my former position, I clapped my hands loudly, causing a booming thunder to rumble through the field, before making a grab and snatch motion to several oncoming attackers. Vines shot up and wrapped around them, then twisted and flung them in opposite directions from us, just as the rain and fog started forming. Three vampires and a bear shifter ended up colliding, then all of them came sliding right at Jake's feet. I tightened my thighs around his ribs, not surprised in the least when he did a complete backflip with me on his back, the collision sliding right underneath us to land against the earth mound I'd just made to stop their momentum.
I was just getting into the swing of things when I felt a hand snatch me off Jake. I turned to find Peter. He had a sexy gleam in his eyes, so I knew he was ready to spar. He launched his attack in the next second, but it was an easily avoided move. I quickly flung him clear across the field into the trees before turning and landing a roundhouse to Malachi, whose claws were headed for Jake's flank.
At that point, I heard Malachi yelp, so Major called, “Stop!”
The whole field stilled again as I called out, “Shit, sorry, Malachi,” as I righted the field with a swipe of my hand.
I dropped down next to where he had landed, worriedly looking into his eyes as I gently touched his right front shoulder, “I didn't think about my strength. I just saw your claws going for Jake's flank. How bad is it? Carlisle!”
Edward chuckled as Malachi nudged his nose into my palm, “He's fine. You didn't dislocate or break anything. It just startled him, because he was sure you were tied up with Peter. He might have a bruise for a few minutes, but he says he'll be good to go in five.”
I let out a breath, then nodded, “Okay. I need to take a few minutes too, to analyze how everything went. Major?”
He helped me up, then said, “Ya did brilliantly with Jake, Isabella. Not one vampire or shifter landed a hit on either’a ya, plus ya were able to keep your mojo goin' with no problem. Peter was the only one who even got close when he pulled ya from Jake's back.”
I nodded, then he lifted my chin to say seriously, “Go rest and recharge. The boys are still takin’ a lot from ya, and ya just released a bunch’a your energy. After ya fill yourself, go over the elders viewpoints with them, in case they have any tips for ya.”
The tension started melting from me at his touch, so he pulled me into his arms before wrapping them securely around me. I breathed in his scent, then whispered, “I think I need to stop for today. I've been using my powers almost nonstop.”
He nodded, then lifted my chin to look into my eyes. Something must have been showing in them, because he called Char over, saying, “You've worked hard today. Why don'cha sit with Isabella for a bit.”
She grinned, kissed the side of my head, then Major kissed me tenderly before releasing me into Char's awaiting arms.
Once we were back over at the tree, I got a strong feeling that I needed to spend time with the earth, along with that uneasy feeling again. I had Char sit against the base of the tree, sat in the space between her legs, then had her rest her hands on my baby bump. Just as I was going to close my eyes and center myself in the earth, Old Quil said in his serious elder tone, “Your earth needs you now, Young Goddess. Something is brewing. Don't think, just feel. Your water mate will help you flow smoothly, and your protector will keep you synced to him.”
I nodded while Jake settled down in front of me; his head resting in front of my knees, his body curled around our right sides, and his tail wrapping around the back of Char. “I know. I felt it as the fight ended on the field. I must begin.”
I let my hands fall to the grass at my sides, in between us and Jake, then closed my eyes. My breathing matched to Char's as I let myself sink into the earth's grounding sensation, then I could see a tangling in my mind's eye. It was dark and twisted, it's shoots wrapping and tangling dangerously with each other. It seemed to be both growing and shrinking at the same time.
What worried me, was that there were several points of light that seemed to be staking out or sneaking around the dark, twisted mass. I knew I couldn't let any of the shoots tangle with the spots of light, so I immediately sought out Char's energy. It was full to the bursting point, so I envisioned a heavy fog in my mind to protect the many bright lights. I watched and waited.
As the lights moved, the fog clung to them. I felt Char tracing patterns tenderly on my baby bump as she whispered soothing words, which helped me keep the fog going around the bright spots in my mind. The largest part of the dark and tangled mass seemed to ensnare four of the smaller shoots, then it was like watching poison take over a plant. The shoots became darker and more ensnared in the tangled mass, the whole mass looking more poisonous for it.
Just then, I saw the many points of light retreating, the fog still clinging to them. The farther away they became from the tangled mass, the more the uneasy feeling dissipated inside the earth and myself. Once the bright spots converged well away from the dark mass, I let my fog go, then it faded to nothing. I let out a breath when they seemed to keep moving away from the poisonous-looking tangle, before relaxing back into the earth's grounding sensation.
It was several moments after, when I was sure the shoots wouldn't stretch out toward the bright lights, that the scene finally faded from my mind's eye. I took a deep breath, made sure my energy level was maxed out, then stroked my fingers through the grass in thanks.
When I opened my eyes, Leah way laying nose to nose with Jake, while my Major was looking at me in worry. Peter was right next to him, concern filling his deep red eyes. I let out a breath. “All is well. I'll explain to everyone back at the house, but I need blood. Char, how much energy did I take from you? How long have I been centered?”
She kissed my neck, then offered a whispered, “About 3 hours, Sweetness. I knew you touched me, but it doesn't feel like you took anything at all. I'm good, I promise. I still feel incredibly full.”
I let a breath out in relief, then brushed her cheek tenderly as I turned to place a light kiss on her lips. Seconds later, I was in Major's arms, as our whole gathering followed us back to the main house.
It seemed as though my rant on the field had actually done some good. I knew I had sounded harsh, but there was no time to coddle anyone when lives were at stake. I wasn't going to risk anyone's life in a battle, just because I was afraid to hurt someone's feelings. If I had to be brash to get my point across, or even down-right rude, so be it.
My only worry was my father, since he'd never seen me act in such a violent manner, but I pushed that worry to the back of my mind during training. There were several times that Sue or one of the elders gave suggestions on what I could make happen, though, which I gladly worked into my elemental arsenal.
After a decent round with both teams of shifters, I noted internally that even I was improving at working my mojo while my mates fought on the field, so I called break. My chest was aching fiercely, plus I needed to restore my energy reserves. Jake nudged me gently after I dismounted, so I nodded while patting his muzzle, “I know. Just as soon as Carlisle comes over, I'll have him look over me to ease everyone's nerves, then someone can feed.”
He nodded, then rested himself on the ground in the shade. I took my place in the cradle of his curled up side as Charlie came to sit in front of me. I smiled, but he asked worriedly, “Are you sure you're okay? I heard what you said to Jake, Princess.”
I nodded, taking his hand in mine, “I'm positive, Dad. I know I'm okay, but it'll ease everyone's minds if Carlisle has a look at the three of us. I'm just a little uncomfortable because it's been too long since anyone's fed. I'll be good to go after that, honestly.”
He nodded, then asked, “Do you have to go back to the house for that?”
I shook my head, then smiled, “Ali is making me amazing clothes, Dad. Ones that I can take care of these moments in, without flashing my whole chest to the world. I'll be able to let my mates or any of the Cullens feed right here against Jake, while still respectably holding conversations with everyone else.”
He looked at me oddly for a second, then let out a small, “Huh.”
I chuckled as he asked, “How does that work exactly. I mean... geesh... I know how nursing works, but I don't think your top is quite nursing friendly, kiddo.”
I chuckled, then said, “I would have agreed with you a few hours ago when Alice first showed it to me, but see the tiny hidden clips here?”
I turned one of the straps to show him, and he nodded. “The chest part of my top is actually two layers. The outer layer unhooks at the strap and unties at the middle, so it can be let down. Then the bottom of the underlayer can slide to make a triangle-shaped opening. That way the top and the sides of my chest on the open side are covered for modesty, along with the whole of the other side, while still allowing me to do what needs done. Ali's really a lifesaver with this stuff, Dad.”
He nodded, then said, “I guess so. All the same, I think I'll go talk to some of the others while you tend to whoever. It's one thing to know about you feeding your mates and the Cullens, but it's another thing to see it up close. I don't know if I'm quite that comfortable yet.”
I just chuckled while patting his leg in understanding.
Carlisle and my mates were to me before Charlie even thought to get up. I smiled up at them from my position. Charlie moved so that Carlisle would have room to look me over, so he knelt down in front of me, offering, “I'm being indulged again, aren't I, Honey?”
I chuckled with a nod, so he said, “You know we can't help but worry, Dear. Let's see how the three of you are doing, shall we?”
I agreed, then he lifted my top above my belly before placing his hands on it to feel around gently. The babies started moving at his gentle prodding, so he gave my baby bump a smile as he said, “Ah, there you are, boys. Are you saying hi?”
After another second of feeling around, he placed my top in its original position, then took my wrist in his hand. He monitored my pulse for a minute, then said, “No cramps or pains? No uncomfortable feelings?”
I shook my head, “Not at all. Even though my mates tend to forget it, they would be the first to know through our bond if there was something to worry about.”
I gave them a smirk. Carlisle chuckled along with Charlie at their suddenly sheepish looks. I chuckled, “I love you three immensely, but you know it's true. You feel them through my bonds with you. You would know the same instant that I would, if something weren't right. As Jake would say, 'Chillax'.”
Jake rumbled out a wolfy laugh at that, which officially had everyone relaxing, until I let out a groan and wrapped my arm against my chest.
Carlisle immediately noticed, of course. “Who would you like me to get for you, Honey. You shouldn't hold off like this.”
I nodded, then said, “I know. I was just waiting for you to finish the mini checkup. Jasper was greedy this morning, so I'm going to spend a little cuddle time with Char and Peter.”
He nodded, kissed my lips tenderly for a brief moment, then stood. Charlie offered to walk with him, then Peter and Char were curling up against Jake on either side of me. Jasper knelt to pull me into a loving kiss, which blocked everyone from Char and Peter settling in to feed, saying when our lips parted, “Rest for a bit, Darlin. I'm gonna Major back up to speak to some of our allies about their techniques.”
I nodded, then he gave both Char and Peter a nuzzle before he walked away.
I soaked up my time with Peter and Char, caressing and nuzzling them often, whispering my love to them almost constantly. Love and tenderness flowed back and forth between our bonds, so I barely noticed Charlie watching us or edging closer.
When I finally did, I smiled up at him before waving him over. He hesitantly came to sit at my feet, asking, “You sure it's alright? I'm not interrupting?”
I shook my head, giving Char and Peter both a kiss on the top of the head, “Nope. Not at all. I always have time for you, Dad. Never forget that. Now how are you doing with everything? My speech earlier didn't have you wanting to bolt, did it?”
Charlie actually laughed, then ran a hand through his hair while he got his thinking look. I waited patiently, stroking my fingers lazily up and down my mates' spines, then he offered, “Look, Bells. It's like this. So, yeah, I'm not used to this side of you yet... but it was still you out there. You might have cussed and vented, practically reaming everyone a new one, but you weren't the only one who expected more out on that field. Every one of the elders did, too, along with your mates. You made them see their mistakes, and you made it damn clear that you were doing it to make sure they lived through this mess. Was your wording a bit harsh? Maybe... but it was also exactly what they needed. You saw the results. Sometimes, that's the only way to make a point. Police chief, remember?”
I chuckled with a nod, “Yeah, I know. I'm not second guessing myself, Dad, just making sure you're still doing okay with it all. You know you can come talk to me if you need to, right?”
After a sincere agreement, Charlie looked down at my mates, a soft smile overtaking his features. I waited to see how well he was taking it, then he looked up to see me watching him. His smile grew slightly, then he said, “It's not how I thought I'd feel, seeing them like that. It's hard to explain, but you exude more of the goddess at times like this. You're still my little girl, always will be, but I understand the purposes and reasons behind it. Tending to their thirst, keeping the volume up for the babies, making sure that they get both the things they need, not having the luxury of waiting when it's time, and having to manage with all this chaos around you 24/7... well, I'm just glad Alice's is in your corner to make those times easier for you to deal with.”
I was pleased he was doing so well, so I relaxed to let my mates finish feeding. It was only a few minutes later when both Peter and Char brought their hands up enough to start sliding my under layer back into place. Two draws later, they both licked the bite marks gently, released my nipples without moving their heads, then finished closing my under layer.
Char moved to nuzzle my neck as Peter kissed over my heart. When they moved to lay against my sides, my top was completely righted. I kissed them both on the lips, whispering, “Thank you, my loves. All better.”
With a nod from each, they settled back next to me, with Charlie chuckling, “Smooth. I'll be the first to admit that. That wasn't just for my benefit, so what's up?”
Peter chuckled, then said honestly, “There are only a select few we trust, Charlie. Those few have been gifted privileges, but that's as far as our tolerance goes. Add in all of these people here, whose main focus is naturally going to be our mate, and we're downright tense. We're protective creatures by nature, since we're only given one shot at a forever mate. We don't want our mates being seen by those who haven't been given permission to. So no, it wasn't just for you. The same would have happened with any other supernatural or human sitting here.”
After giving both my mates an indulgent kiss, I sat up to squeeze Charlie's hand briefly. “Well, I don't know about you, but I need to get back to work, right after I energize. I don't want to let my reserves get much lower, in case these two little ones need an unexpected burst.”
Peter and Char both scooted quickly to give me room. I chuckled before assuming my lotus position. I opened myself to the earth, and was soon maxed out. Just before I was ready to pull back, I felt a slightly uneasy flutter. I didn't know what to make of it, but when I opened my eyes, my instincts were nagging at me.
I whipped around as soon as my eyes popped open, ignoring the slight gasps from my mates, to press my forehead to Jake's. “What's happening? Something's not right. I don't have any alarms going off, Jake, so you've gotta give me something.”
The field suddenly went deathly still, but I closed my eyes to concentrate on only Jake. Our breaths slowly synced, and then I suddenly felt that same uneasy feeling. It had me completely baffled, so I opened my eyes to stare into his. After several seconds of searching his eyes, which were full of concern, I called out without moving, “Edward!”
He knelt next to me a split second later. I said softly, “Something's off. I'm getting a slightly uneasy feeling from both the earth and Jake, when I concentrate on him, but I don't have any warning alarms. Is he getting anything?”
Edward sat, scratched Jake's muzzle as he listened, then his brows furrowed. “He says that the Siberia, Russia tribe... the white tigers... have been hard to keep track of the whole time, but it's almost like they've been purposely popping up at certain intervals, so that Ali or you would be able to see them. He thinks they know more of the legends than even the Quileute tribe, by the way they've been acting.”
He sat listening to Jake again for a second before continuing, “From what Jake's been able to gather, they should have been in state the last time they were supposed to pop up, but they didn't make themselves known at the interval they've been keeping. He's not worried yet, Sweetheart, but if they don't pop up within the next few hours, they may have hit trouble.”
I shook my head, then said to Jake, “I want to be notified as soon as you hear anything, especially since we don't have eyes on the Volturi tracker or Jane.”
He nodded, then Edward offered, “He will... and says he thinks the two of you should enter the fray in the field, since the groups are doing much better. You'll need to be able to work the elements while in the middle of it all, Sweetheart. Just remember that most of your time in battle will be on his back, not the ground.”
I nodded to both of them, then looked at the elders, who were walking toward us. Sue took Charlie's hand comfortingly as Sam asked, “Sister?”
I shook my head, “The tiger tribe hasn't popped up. They were supposed to have done so already, from what Jake's been able to track of them. I've got a slightly uneasy feeling, but no alarms. If we don't hear from them within the next few hours, they may have run into trouble.”
He nodded seriously, then said, “I agree with what Edward and Jake suggested, as far as the field. I heard that part. You need to feel out what it will be like to have the elements all around you on the battlefield, work with them in the middle of the chaos, so to speak. We can't have your first time experiencing it that way be during the actual battle, Sister.”
I nodded, then asked Peter, “Let Major know everything, please. I'll need to synch myself further with Jake for a few minutes before we begin. Let him know that mixed groups should try to attack us, while a few others should be already fighting each other on the field.”
I stood to hug Charlie, making him promise to stay with the elders under the shelter of the tree. He did right away, so I turned to Jake. I pressed my forehead to his, whispering as I stroked his large muzzle, “Looks like the time has come, huh? Seems like everything we've done so far was to prepare us for this. All this chaos and upheaval. I don't say it nearly enough, Jake, but I love you. We can do this. We know each other inside and out, we're a part of each other, so let’s go show all of them how it's supposed to be done.”
I closed my eyes, centered myself in Jake and the elements for several minutes, then opened my eyes and kissed his nose, offering, “Ready?”
He nodded, then I mounted his back in one fluid back flip. I settled in, then let the power flow through my every nerve, causing my eyes to change to the swirling silver of the ultimate goddess.
I heard several slight gasps as Jake and I came forward a few steps, but saw Major looked to me and nod before giving everyone the signal to start their individual battles. I tightened my legs around Jake's ribs slightly, stilled the air on the whole field, then started a few mini tornadoes on the field as I gave Jake the signal to go.
As soon as we hit the fray running, I started sporadic fires around the clearing, then felt Jake starting to twist to go against the first attacker. My body automatically compensated, keeping me seated on his back. Just as Jake downed the first two, I jumped straight up to miss a vampire flying at my waist, made a sinkhole to stop another vampire coming at Jake, and flipped midair to kick at falcon getting ready to grab my shoulders with his talons, directing him right toward one of the tornadoes.
As soon as I slid onto Jake's back in my former position, I clapped my hands loudly, causing a booming thunder to rumble through the field, before making a grab and snatch motion to several oncoming attackers. Vines shot up and wrapped around them, then twisted and flung them in opposite directions from us, just as the rain and fog started forming. Three vampires and a bear shifter ended up colliding, then all of them came sliding right at Jake's feet. I tightened my thighs around his ribs, not surprised in the least when he did a complete backflip with me on his back, the collision sliding right underneath us to land against the earth mound I'd just made to stop their momentum.
I was just getting into the swing of things when I felt a hand snatch me off Jake. I turned to find Peter. He had a sexy gleam in his eyes, so I knew he was ready to spar. He launched his attack in the next second, but it was an easily avoided move. I quickly flung him clear across the field into the trees before turning and landing a roundhouse to Malachi, whose claws were headed for Jake's flank.
At that point, I heard Malachi yelp, so Major called, “Stop!”
The whole field stilled again as I called out, “Shit, sorry, Malachi,” as I righted the field with a swipe of my hand.
I dropped down next to where he had landed, worriedly looking into his eyes as I gently touched his right front shoulder, “I didn't think about my strength. I just saw your claws going for Jake's flank. How bad is it? Carlisle!”
Edward chuckled as Malachi nudged his nose into my palm, “He's fine. You didn't dislocate or break anything. It just startled him, because he was sure you were tied up with Peter. He might have a bruise for a few minutes, but he says he'll be good to go in five.”
I let out a breath, then nodded, “Okay. I need to take a few minutes too, to analyze how everything went. Major?”
He helped me up, then said, “Ya did brilliantly with Jake, Isabella. Not one vampire or shifter landed a hit on either’a ya, plus ya were able to keep your mojo goin' with no problem. Peter was the only one who even got close when he pulled ya from Jake's back.”
I nodded, then he lifted my chin to say seriously, “Go rest and recharge. The boys are still takin’ a lot from ya, and ya just released a bunch’a your energy. After ya fill yourself, go over the elders viewpoints with them, in case they have any tips for ya.”
The tension started melting from me at his touch, so he pulled me into his arms before wrapping them securely around me. I breathed in his scent, then whispered, “I think I need to stop for today. I've been using my powers almost nonstop.”
He nodded, then lifted my chin to look into my eyes. Something must have been showing in them, because he called Char over, saying, “You've worked hard today. Why don'cha sit with Isabella for a bit.”
She grinned, kissed the side of my head, then Major kissed me tenderly before releasing me into Char's awaiting arms.
Once we were back over at the tree, I got a strong feeling that I needed to spend time with the earth, along with that uneasy feeling again. I had Char sit against the base of the tree, sat in the space between her legs, then had her rest her hands on my baby bump. Just as I was going to close my eyes and center myself in the earth, Old Quil said in his serious elder tone, “Your earth needs you now, Young Goddess. Something is brewing. Don't think, just feel. Your water mate will help you flow smoothly, and your protector will keep you synced to him.”
I nodded while Jake settled down in front of me; his head resting in front of my knees, his body curled around our right sides, and his tail wrapping around the back of Char. “I know. I felt it as the fight ended on the field. I must begin.”
I let my hands fall to the grass at my sides, in between us and Jake, then closed my eyes. My breathing matched to Char's as I let myself sink into the earth's grounding sensation, then I could see a tangling in my mind's eye. It was dark and twisted, it's shoots wrapping and tangling dangerously with each other. It seemed to be both growing and shrinking at the same time.
What worried me, was that there were several points of light that seemed to be staking out or sneaking around the dark, twisted mass. I knew I couldn't let any of the shoots tangle with the spots of light, so I immediately sought out Char's energy. It was full to the bursting point, so I envisioned a heavy fog in my mind to protect the many bright lights. I watched and waited.
As the lights moved, the fog clung to them. I felt Char tracing patterns tenderly on my baby bump as she whispered soothing words, which helped me keep the fog going around the bright spots in my mind. The largest part of the dark and tangled mass seemed to ensnare four of the smaller shoots, then it was like watching poison take over a plant. The shoots became darker and more ensnared in the tangled mass, the whole mass looking more poisonous for it.
Just then, I saw the many points of light retreating, the fog still clinging to them. The farther away they became from the tangled mass, the more the uneasy feeling dissipated inside the earth and myself. Once the bright spots converged well away from the dark mass, I let my fog go, then it faded to nothing. I let out a breath when they seemed to keep moving away from the poisonous-looking tangle, before relaxing back into the earth's grounding sensation.
It was several moments after, when I was sure the shoots wouldn't stretch out toward the bright lights, that the scene finally faded from my mind's eye. I took a deep breath, made sure my energy level was maxed out, then stroked my fingers through the grass in thanks.
When I opened my eyes, Leah way laying nose to nose with Jake, while my Major was looking at me in worry. Peter was right next to him, concern filling his deep red eyes. I let out a breath. “All is well. I'll explain to everyone back at the house, but I need blood. Char, how much energy did I take from you? How long have I been centered?”
She kissed my neck, then offered a whispered, “About 3 hours, Sweetness. I knew you touched me, but it doesn't feel like you took anything at all. I'm good, I promise. I still feel incredibly full.”
I let a breath out in relief, then brushed her cheek tenderly as I turned to place a light kiss on her lips. Seconds later, I was in Major's arms, as our whole gathering followed us back to the main house.