"Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art…. It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things which give value to survival."

-C.S Lewis

"Paul, stop eating all of the hot dogs!" I hissed as I watched him shove hot dogs into his mouth.

The bonfire was about to start. Kokako was nearby speaking quietly to my mother and some of the elders. Everyone was rather surprised and shocked to see the large beast, but thankfully everyone took it into stride and good manners. Kokako was a legend from what Billy had stated although he had no connection to our tribe, he was still a legend, and I mean he was a beast banished from Heaven.

Bella was laughing as she watched Paul shove food into his giant mouth. The bonfire hadn't even started yet and he was already demolishing all the damn food. "I'm hungry!" Paul complained avoiding getting hit by my hand.

I scowled at him, "What about our brothers and Leah? Huh? What about the others? You're such a fat ass!" I hissed getting up from my spot and grabbing the large tray of hot dogs to get them away from his evil, hungry clutches. Immediately, Paul started growling and whining but was shut up when Jacob snapped at him.

"Dude, we're all hungry and Emily said not to eat until after the bonfire." His tone was condescending as if speaking to a child.

Paul grumbled angrily, "I work my ass off to keep you jerks safe and this is the thanks I receive?" He shot all of us a glare, "Ungrateful punks."

"Shut up, idiot." Embry snickered.

"Did I miss anything?" Leah asked shoving Paul off the log and took his place next to me.

Paul snarled angrily and shot upwards, "You fucking—"

"Ahem," I coughed cutting him off and gave him a hard, pointed look, "We are in the presence of our parents and elders, so, have some respect."

Paul stared at me in disbelief as the rest snickered at his expression, "She jus took my seat, baby sister!" He cries out with a frown.

"I saw no such thing." I sniffed with a smirk.

Paul gaped, glared at Leah, and sulked to sit next to Seth who was snickering like crazy. "Shut up, mutt." Paul snapped grumpily.

"You excited, Serena?" Leah asked gazing at me intently.

I nodded and smiled, "Very. Dad always told me about the tales and how important they were to our tribe but never actually told me them for obvious reasons." I replied as I leaned against Jacob's shoulder and he slipped his hand through mine.

"This is the first time an outsider will be hearing our tales too." Leah gazed at Bella, and for once without any venom or dislike. Her gaze was harsh but calm.

"Really?" Bella questioned with wide eyes.

"Yeah, and don't forget—" Jacob was cut off by the sound of a loud thump behind us. I glanced over my shoulder to see Kokako laid out directly behind us and with his head hanging over us. I could fear his warm fur pressed against my back. I leaned into him comfortably and watched with amusement as Leah's eyes took in Kokako's massive and impressive form.

"Kokako." Jacob finished.

Billy, who was sitting at the center of the bonfire, spoke, "Kokako might not have direct contact with our tribe but he still is a legend among all shape-shifters. There were originally seven of you that had fallen from Heaven, no?" Billy asked Kokako with as much respect as he could.

Kokako rumbled lowly, "Yes, four males and three females, all siblings. We all reside with Kitsunes or faeries all over the world."

"How long have you been with the Kitsunes?" My mother asked curiously.

Kokako's voice resonated through the now silent bonfire, "A very long time. I would believe a few centuries." His voice ran through me with cold chills and my arms had goose bumps.

"We are much honored to have you join us, Kokako." My mother answered with a gentle smile, "Thank you for making the journey here to see how my daughter was doing."

"Your daughter is very special, Lady Uley. I hope you know this."

My mother smiled directly towards me, "I know."

Billy cleared his throat signaling he was about to start, "The Quileute's have been a small tribe from the beginning," Just like Kokako's voice, Billy's voice was soulful and deep filled with deep understanding and knowledge. Kokako spoke with the roughness of how wild he truly was while Billy spoke with certain calmness. The two were very much alike in my opinion, "But we've always had magic in our blood. We were great spirit warriors….shape shifters."

Everyone hung onto Billy's words, captivated already, "That transform into the powerful wolf. This enabled us to scare off our enemies, and protect our tribe." I glanced subtly at Bella through the corner of my eye. The reason behind this certain tale was because of Bella but I doubt it was just to target her. Billy cared for Bella as if she was his own daughter. "One day our warriors came across a creature…it looked like a man, but it was hard like stone, and cold as ice." Billy gazed over the faces of the left side where most of us were seated, "Our warrior's sharp teeth finally tore it apart but only fire would completely destroy it."

I remembered the night Laurent had crossed into our border on my first night here. I remember the boys making a fire and throwing pieces of his body into the fire. The sound was one I would never forget. It was a very unpleasant sound. "They lived in fear; the Cold Man was not alone. And they were right. She took her vengeance out on the village. Our elder chief, Taha Aki, was the only spirit warrior left,"

"To save the tribe, after his son was killed. Taha Aki's Third Wife could see that he would lose. The Third Wife was no magical being, no special powers, but one…courage. She took a dagger and sheathed it within her body. The Third Wife's sacrifice distracted the Cold Woman long enough for Taha Aki to destroy her. She saved the tribe and over time, our enemies have disappeared but one remains," I swear almost everyone shot glances at Bella who looked uncomfortable.

I cleared my throat and everyone turned their attention back to Billy. I glanced at Bella who sent me a grateful smile but there was something in her eyes that gave me a weird feeling. I ignored my strange feeling and turned back to Billy, "The Cold Ones. Our magic awakens when they are near. And we sense it now; we feel the threat in our blood. Something terrible is coming," Billy's voice grew grim and the pack members all straightened up, "And we must all be ready," Billy directed his gaze right at Bella, "All of us."

The bonfire slipped into lighter topic but Billy's last words rang in all of our heads. It remained in the back of our minds as we laughed and ate. Some of the Elder's sang songs of our tribe's greatest heroes; including the Third Wife. Billy had confirmed the darkness that we were all hoping would not come. What was coming our way…we had no idea what it could be or how to even prepare other then to train as much as we could.

I was watching the boys play beer pong but instead of beer there was fruit punch spiked with some strong vodka. Since werewolves ran on higher temperatures they usually burned up alcohol within minutes of consuming not allowing them the pleasure of getting drunk. Jacob was going against Paul and from the corner of my eye I saw Kokako moving swiftly towards the woods with Billy. They paused once they were a distance away and spoke before Kokako glanced at me. He beckoned me to come to him.

I silently followed leaving Bella with Leah and Embry. Billy was moving towards the party and stopped when I approached him, "He wishes to have a word before he leaves."

"He's leaving?" I asked with a frown, "So soon?"

Billy nodded, "He simply wanted to see how you were." Billy had stated that so vaguely but before I could ask, Billy was rolling his way back to the party talking about getting some of my mother's cooking before the boys ate it all.

I gazed after Billy before walking up to Kokako with a sad frown, "You're leaving so soon?" I couldn't help but to sound disappointed.

Kokako was lying down so I sat on the ground in front of him Indian styled. Kokako laid his head down so we could see eye to eye, "I simply traveled to see how you were. I wanted to see how you handling your new form and if you were happy. I am glad you are content with your tribe. I see you are very safe here and well cared after," Kokako's cold breath washed over me like a blanket and I resisted the urge to shiver, "Your mate is especially protective of you, which is to be considered. Even as we speak, he keeps his eyes on you at all times. He is worthy of being your mate. I was afraid I would have to scare him straight if he had not been serious about being your mate."

I smiled and feel butterflies swirl in my stomach, "Jacob is the best mate I could ever ask for. Thank you, Kokako. I really appreciate you coming out here to see me. I had missed you." I was honest and I knew he knew as well.

Kokako chuffed affectionately, "Since your departure, the forest has missed your presence. It is a rare occurrence when that happens. I do believe you do not know how precious your soul is to every living thing that comes across you, Lady Serena."

I looked at Kokako and murmured, "It's a bit strange hearing those words…I know I have a certain affect on people but not on the land. Gabriel says it is because of the fourteen Kitsunes I have in my soul."

Kokako nodded thoughtfully, "Yes, that could be it but I believe it is because you are a rare person with a rare personality. There are very few creatures in this world with your personality. You do not see how special you are but the rest of us do which is why we protect you so fiercely. The fourteen Kitsunes who gave up their lives so that you could have their souls was not an act done by random. Kitsunes are drawn to pure souls and your soul drew in every Kitsune within the entire United States, and once those fourteen Legends saw that they knew what had to be done."

"Why though? Why did they just give up their lives just so that I can…be me?" I questioned with a frown. It was a question that had always been on my mind. These legends were of great importance, I would imagine, so why would they just give up living because of me?

"The fourteen Kitsunes who sacrificed their lives and soul were not just any important Kitsunes. They were, from what I heard, were the first Kitsunes to grace this world. Each the first of its race, and they have wondered this Earth for many, many eons. They saw and heard many things to know when their time would be. They knew eventually someone with a pure, radiant soul would be born and what would need to be done. Kitsunes are very secretive creatures. Their intentions are not often clear but that is how foxes work." Kokako had humor laced in his words and it made me smile slightly.

Kokako bid temporary farewell but promised he would visit soon but suggested I visit since he noted that the forest was a bit blue from the lack of my presence. I watched Kokako leave with a heavy heart, I really wished he would've stayed but he had stated there was no reason for him to stay. I was safe and that was all that he wanted for me, oh, and my happiness.

A pair of soft lips kissed my bare shoulder, "I don't like that look on your face, darling." Jacob whispered as I leaned into his strong body. His arm found its way around my waist and it gave me reassurance that I didn't know I needed. "What is worrying you?"

"A lot, in fact," I answered softly as I placed my hand on his arm, "I want everyone I care about to be safe."

Jacob chuckled, "Kokako can take care of himself, babe, no one would be stupid enough to go against a beast that was banished from heaven."

I smiled slightly and asked, "Do you know why his kind was banished from Heaven?"

Jacob shook his head, "That remains a complete mystery. To be honest, I didn't think they existed until you mentioned him so long ago."

"Hey, lovebirds!" Embry shouted waving his arms, "The party is over here!"

I giggled and Jacob hesitantly let me out of his hold but I held onto his hand, "So, when are we having that picnic?" I asked happily. Everything felt right in that moment. We were safe, happy, and having fun, but I had to remind myself that this was the calm before the storm…and whatever what could our way…would either break or make my pack. I just hoped we came out of the storm without any serious injuries.

I wouldn't lose another friend.

I just couldn't.

_break_

"Are you going to marry him?" I asked Bella a few hours later.

We were tucked comfortably in the living room watching some goofy chick flick. The entire living room was transformed into a large makeshift bed. Pillows were thrown everywhere, countless of blankets made a comfortable bed, and wedding magazines were thrown across our laps. Alice had told me she wanted me to ease Bella into deciding what she wanted for the wedding even though it wasn't official yet.

Alice and I knew it was only time before Bella finally agreed to marry Edward, and knowing Bella…it would be very soon. Alice just wanted as many details as possible so that Bella's wedding would be perfect, and I couldn't have agreed more.

Bella blushes and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, "Um, of course I am. I'm just…nervous is all? With everything going on…I don't want to add more pressure and besides, I want to be sure that everything is safe for everyone to actually come to the wedding, you know?"

I nodded as I handed her, her tub of ice cream and her spoon, "I get it and are you going to be a vampire for that or human?"

Bella shifts and mumbles, "You know my feelings on being changed as soon as possible but Edward doesn't feel the way."

"I figured, so, I assume you two are still working on the conditions?" I smiled softly.

She nods shyly, "Yeah, but I'm sure we'll be married as I'm still human."

"It makes sense. I think everyone will notice the change in appearance and the red eyes." I snorted.

Bella gave a strained smile, "Emmett and Jasper have a bet on how many people I will kill."

I gaped at her, "Seriously? I expected this from Emmett but not Jasper. Don't let to them, Bells, besides knowing you…you'll have good self control." I assured her but it fell on deaf ears.

"After the wedding…Edward might change me, I'm not sure yet, but if he does…I won't be back for a long time…not until I'm ready to handle…" She gestures all over, "I can't hurt someone I care about…I have to be completely sure I am in control."

My heart gave a sad tug and it was clear on my face, "I really don't like the idea of you having to stay away…I am kinda being selfish but I don't want you to go." I scowled.

Bella smiled, "You are anything but selfish, Serena, but…I don't want to leave either but I couldn't live with myself I hurt you or Jacob or Charlie." She shuddered at the mere thought.

I gave her a sad smile before my sad smile turned into a smirk, "So, have you and Edward—" I wiggled my finger at her.

Her face was scrunched up in confusion before realization bloomed on her now blushing face, "Serena!" She cried out in horror and I couldn't help but to laugh. Luckily, Sam and Emily were gone for the night. The boys were all staying over Jared's place for a guy's night and that included Gabriel. Bella and I had the house all to ourselves for the night.

"What? I'm just curious to see if you beat Jacob and I to the punch line." I shrugged knowing Bella was a virgin like me.

"Wait," Bella looked at me wide eyed, "You and Jacob haven't…done it yet?" Bella says sounding surprised.

I blinked and laughed, "No, and I know why you're surprised but may I remind you I have an older brother who is always on my case whenever I'm alone with Jacob." I rolled my eyes.

Bella giggled, "I'm surprised Jacob's held out this long."

I laughed, "So am I. We have spoken about it…but like you said…with everything going on…we both need to focused on what's coming and not on sex, you know what I mean?"

Bella nodded, "Edward doesn't want to…he's afraid that he will lose control and hurt me." She admitted quietly.

I nodded in understanding, "I'm not surprised. Edward loves you too much. To hurt you would devastate him."

"I know he won't hurt me though!" Bella protested with a frown.

I smirked at her as I shoved a spoonful of ice cream into my mouth, "Who knew Bella was so eager to have sex. I hope he at least soothes your urges." I wiggled my eyebrows making her gasp in horror.

"Serena Uley! You are so…so—"

"I'm your best friend, what did you expect?" I laughed at her reactions.

Her face was cherry red but she mumbled, "Does Jake help with your urges?"

I nodded, "Yeah, whenever we can find the time to be alone. Just touches here and there but it's getting worse…seriously, the more time we wait the more I get…needy." I scowled and laughed and Bella giggled.

"Don't let Jacob hear you say that," Bella smirked now, "Then he definitely won't be able to stop thinking about having sex—no making love to you."

I groaned, "God, if he hears that I want him just as bad as he wants me, Jesus, he'll be teasing me mercilessly until I crack."

"I wonder if Edward would break easier if I did that." Bella wondered thoughtfully.

I grinned wickedly, "Making Edward suffer is a favorite past time, Bells, I think you should go for it. Ten bucks says he caves." I declared.

Bella's eyes widened with glee, "I think I will."

"I think I'm having a bad influence on you but I don't care because it's awesome." I laughed as I nudged her shoulder playfully then added, "I bet if you told Alice…no, Edward would probably read her mind."

Bella nodded but said with determination, "I know how Edward ticks…I'll get him to cave."

"This is why we are such good friends." I sighed wistfully as I ate my ice cream, "Maybe I should tease Jacob…before he teases me."

Bella nods, "If I'm going to tease my boyfriend so do you."

"Okay, you're on. We'll see which one of our boyfriends will crack first." I gave her a wide grin.

"I can't believe we're actually talking about this." Bella said with a laugh.

"Oh, hey, tell Alice if she wants to go with us into Port Angeles tomorrow. I know she's been dying to go shopping."

Bella scowled, "You know I hate shopping and I thought we were going to get you your painting stuff."

"We are but I want to include Alice too." I answered with a shrug.

Bella's face softens and she nods, "I'll bet she'll be delighted. Honestly, I'm scared to put you two together in the same car." She gives a shudder.

I scoffed and rolled my eyes, "So is everyone else." Alice and I…together…would probably spell out disaster. "Hey, what about that blonde one? Do you think she'd want to come?"

Bella gave me this dry look, "Rosalie's been…a little bit nicer to me but I'm sure she doesn't like you much especially with what you did to Edward."

"I kind of feel bad that we're leaving her out, I mean, at least ask her you know?" I persisted, "Honestly, I feel bad if she has to spend all her time with Emmett."

Bella laughed.

Our night was filled with laughter that was almost heard throughout the entire forest. It was one of the fondest memories I would have with Bella.

Alright, another update because I love you guys. I felt bad for not updating for more then two months. I'm trying to update in order, so, this story might be updated for a week or so. I will be updating my Jurassic World FanFic next. I kinda don't like doing fillers but it's necessary without time jumping constantly. I want to infuse Serena into life with Bella, The Cullen's, and the Pack. I want her presence to change the outcome of what Eclipse brought us. I'm not sure what I'm exactly going to do with her during the battle but I have a very special twist for her.

For now, I'll give you some cute fillers of Serena bonding with Bella, Alice, and maybe Rosalie.

I do apologize for any errors.

I really hoped you enjoyed this chapter. Although it was a bit boring XD

Until next time,

Vanesssssa :D :D