Disclaimer: The Twilight book series and all recognizable characters and situations belong to Stephanie Meyer I don't own any of that. But I do so love her stage.
**Please see additional authors note at the end of this chapter for more info *****
Anything written in italics is a flashback, random thought, or text message depending on the context.
A/N: Thirteen people are traveling: Adam, Sue, Leah, Old Quil, Jacob, Coinin, Embry' Seth, and The Uley family. The younger wolves, Collin Littlesea and Mark Hancock were late additions to the list.
Chapter 10: Awakening
London Heathrow Airport
London, England
United Kingdom
Leah's Pov
Thirty minutes prior
to departure for
Lucacini
Coinin returned to Phoenix shortly after the pack merge. He and I kept in touch by text. He was supposed to meet us three days ago in New York. But he cancelled at the last minute choosing to meet up here in London instead.
His flight in from the states was delayed so we waited for him near our private boarding gate. "Coinin," I whispered when he walked up to us. He looked incredible in a white aviator shirt with gold bar epaulets. Black dress pants and cowboy boots completed his outfit.
Adam and I simultaneously stepped forward to greet him. He hesitated clearly debating whether to talk to Adam, or come over to me first. Old Quil solved the dilemma. "Coinin! We hoped you would get here in time," he said in an overly loud voice.
"Hello everyone. Sorry for cutting it so close," Coinin replied ruefully. He smiled at me. I returned what I hoped came across as a friendly nod. The connection between us was alive and well even after a month apart. He slapped Adam on the back started towards me. I wrecked my brain for something to say. I didn't want to seem like an overeager teenager.
"How have you been Leah?" he asked.
'Not bad," I answered.
His eyes darkened with emotion. "Leah I would love to chat but I need to board," he said.
I looked at him, "What?"
He smirked, "I am co-piloting this trip."
"Well that's news to me. I didn't even know you're a pilot," I admitted.
'I work as a private pilot. But I hold the certifications to fly commercially," he replied.
Adam interrupted us from across the room, "Sorry Miss Leah not to be rude, But Coinin they're waiting for you."
Coinin looked at me apologetically. "Yes dad!" he said to Adam sarcastically.
"Boy needs to learn some manners!" Old Quil said to no one in particular.
Adam shook his head, "No it's OK we kid around like that."
Coinin flashed a grin before disappearing through the boarding gate. I noticed several pack brothers giving me knowing looks.
"I suppose you jokers knew he was a pilot," I grouched.
"Yep," said Seth.
Shortly afterwards we were allowed to board. I learned there are perks to traveling with First Beta Lightfoot. The Lucacinian State Airplane stood proudly at our gate with that country's flags painted on it. Two shifters in black military uniforms stood near the entrance to the jet.
Adam introduced them as members of the "Black Guard Security Force". He said their presence here came as a courtesy with use of the State Airplane.
Adam explained there are two main branches of high level security in Lucacini. While the "Black Guard" protects the royal family and top officials, The "Elite Black Guard" are the king's personal security detail.
Coinin stood near the cockpit with another pilot when we boarded. The interior of the airplane was custom built. The larger than normal cabin area was designed to accommodate shifters.
The back half of the aircraft had been converted into three distinct areas. A small sleeping area, a kitchen with a mini bar, and a small fully stocked clinic with a hospital bed and defibrillators. Adam said the royal family often travel with their personal physicians.
The three hour flight to Lucacini passed quickly. Adam relaxed watching a movie on the small screen above the back of his chair. The pack and I enjoyed the novelty of seats that actually fit us. Even my mom had fun. I heard her whisper to Adam that she wished they had time to try out the bed. He pulled her into his lap to finish watching the movie with him. Old Quil had his head stuck in a book. The Black Guard military shifters, spent their time in a separate security area.
Just as the movie ended, the flight hostess served breakfast. I don't know how she managed the stacks of big thick fluffy pancakes on an airplane. But they were delicious.
About an hour later the pilot spoke into the intercom, "First Beta Lightfoot and guest, we are about to begin our descent Into Jeroisa City. Everyone please stay seated with your seat belt securely fastened. And welcome to Lucacini."
Watching from the airplane window as we approached the landing strip, my first impression was a green mountainous region. The sprawling airport complex looked the same as most airports.
We didn't have to go through customs. Security guards led us through some double doors, up a staircase into a lounge area with glass walls. The room provided a great view of the mountains and airport runways. Ultra-modern couches formed several seating groups. I overheard Adam tell my mom this VIP lounge is usually reserved for visiting dignitaries.
A large Coat of Arms depicting the Lucacini flag guarded by two snarling wolves was painted on one wall.
We could see into the busy airport terminal. My first thought was I never seen so many huge men in one place. My second thought was our group was getting a lot of attention. My third thought was how strange to see older shifters. I saw an elderly couple holding hands. The shifter sported gray hair and wrinkles.
Emily was looking around in awe. She said, "I'm used to you guys. But, what is this? Land of the giants?"
"Mrs. Uley remember they can hear you," Adam reminded her gently.
I looked over to see what she was gawking at. Two fierce looking male shifters were coming down an escalator. Physically they reminded me of an Anubis. Except, their wide overdeveloped shoulders kept them from being lanky. I realized why they seemed vaguely familiar. It was a superficial resemblance; but their white blond hair and silvery eyes reminded me of Coinin.
My jaw dropped when I realized the taller of the two men was openly checking me out. He slowed down and bowed placing his hand over his heart all the while maintaining eye contact. I gave him a smile and returned the gesture. I absently noticed Coinin step over to my side never taking his eyes off the shifter.
"Miss Leah the Child of The Moon signals he is available. You just implied you return his interest," I heard Adam say in an amused voice. Child of the Moon? As in a real werewolf? I firmly shook my head no. The werewolf inclined his head and winked at me before walking on. I heard the pack snickering in the background.
"Coinin has some competition." Seth whispered loudly to Collin Littlesea and Mark Hancock.
"Oh stop it! Everything is a joke to you," I said through my teeth. Boy he can be annoying sometimes!
Seth gave me a hurt look and turned back to his friends.
My mom balanced Levi on her hip and looked right at me, "He's cute Leah. Are you sure you don't want to meet him? Mom!
"His muscles make me want to fan myself," Emily joined in smirking at Sam.
The pack started laughing outright and ribbing Sam.
Sam looked askew at Emily and said, "Fan yourself over these." He flexed his chest muscles making his shirt move.
"Naw mine are better right Leah?" Said Jacob flexing one arm. "Never mind you probably want to pick Coinin's," he said mimicking my voice when he said Coinin.
I rolled my eyes, "We'll let Emily decide."
Even Adam smiled at that one. I caught Seth's eye and mouthed the word, "Sorry." He flipped me off and I knew I was forgiven.
"Leah," Coinin called my name. He bowed and placed his hand over his heart watching me closely.
I closed my eyes and counted to ten, "Now you're making fun of me!" I tried to keep my voice low.
"No I have the biggest crush on you; and I'm saying it right here in front of everyone," he retorted.
He was putting me on the spot, especially with the pack avidly watching.
"Five bucks says she don't want him," Mark whispered to Seth and Collin.
Seth said, "I'm betting fifty she'll take him."
Collin said, "I'm not betting. Seth probably has inside information."
"Shh..You're killing the moment!" said my mom. Oh my gosh!
Coinin and I looked at each other and burst out laughing.
I leaned toward him to say, "Let's talk later when we're not on display."
"Ok," he said smugly.
Adam said, "Our ride is ready but first we have to decide what to do as a group. Our choices are to have lunch here in the city and spend time exploring. Or we could head on out to Ivan's peak and stop for lunch on the way.
Coinin said," I feel like going for a run. Everyone else can explore the city and we can meet for lunch."
The pack except for Jacob and I decided to go for a run with Coinin. The rest of us wanted to explore the historical district of the city. We all planned to meet up at a place called Bronwyn's Square for lunch.
Everyone followed security into the terminal down a corridor through a set of automatic doors. We exited into a parking lot where a sleek black Hummer limousine was waiting for us.
"Leah," Coinin said standing back letting the others go ahead. He met my eyes, "I have really missed you."
"I have missed you too," I admitted.
"Can we spend time together soon?" he shook his head slightly and grinned at me.
"Ok," I answered.
I glanced towards the Hummer where my pack brothers were busy acting like they weren't eavesdropping. Sam and Emily were buckling the twins into car seats.
Everyone else was picking out backpacks. Everyone that is except mom and Adam. Adam glanced our way and then went back to giving the driver instructions. My mom gave us a thumbs up.
Coinin walked me over to the Hummer and held the door while I climbed in. He reached in and squeezed my hand softly before closing the door.
I fell in love with Jeroisa City. The architecture is a charming mixture of modern and historical. Hi-rise office buildings create a towering skyline. Yet French Baroque churches stand side by side with neo-classical buildings and blocks of modern housing.
The historical district reminded me of 1950's America. There were even vintage trolleys running through the middle of town. Bronwyn's Square served as Main Street.
I saw a couple of houses with white picket fences. But mostly old fashion store fronts with colorful window displays lined the streets. Some of the shops had apartments on top framed by intricate ironwork balconies. Staircases on the sides of the buildings allowed access to the second floors. I felt like I was in a Norman Rockwell Painting.
We parked near a beautiful old plaza complete with a clock-tower. I was surprised to see rolls of bicycles parked at bicycle racks. Jacob helped Emily put the twins into their double stroller and we walked into the plaza.
Apparently they were having a street fair. A large carousel with colorful wolves and ponies enticed children to ride. Musicians in heavily embroidered outfits played traditional instruments on a stage. A mime walked around in the crowd stopping to entertain people.
An artist was set up drawing quick charcoal sketches of people. There was even a blocked off area where some artisans were blowing glass. Vendors had set up booths selling everything from jewelry, to food and wine.
The people proved to be as interesting as their surroundings. Many of the older women were wearing modest clothes and stockings. Shifters were intermingled with the crowd to the point that I stopped noticing them except for the alphas.
I saw one family group of Children of The Moon. At least I think they were. They had the overdeveloped shoulders and silvery sheen in their eyes.
We care across a storytelling area. It reminded us of a bon fire and we decided to sit and listen for a time.
The narrator a man wearing a traditional vest had an interesting story to tell.
For most of the 17th century. Lucacini was a Vassal State under the Ottoman Empire. Lucacinians were ferocious warriors, so the Ottomans left them alone.
At this time the country was divided into three principalities , Eryin, Leydwolf and Vin Luna, each ruled by a petty sovereign who claimed to be High king of all Lucacini.
In 1798 Logan Hemming heir to the Leydwolf throne married Bronwyn of Eryin uniting two thirds of the country.
Besieged by outside invaders on all of her borders it wasn't long before Vin Luna fell.
And thus Logan Hemming united all of Lucacini with him as King. He was crowned in 1803 and reigned until his death in 1879. He was a beloved monarch and to this day his reign is remembered as a Golden Age for Lucacini.
So we only heard the end of the stories and the next show didn't start for two hours. Lily was being fussy so Jacob and I volunteered to walk around with her. My mom and Emily wanted to visit a historic church. Emily made Jacob promise not to feed Lily any junk food before she would trust him with her.
I wandered over to a vendor selling antique toys to look for tin soldiers. Seth started collecting them after he inherited a few from my dad. I felt a slight burst of alpha energy but ignored it as Lily started pulling my hair. Jacob took her so I could look at the cutest little Jack-in-the-box.
Jacob started goofing around trying to rush me. He wanted to check out an antique auto show that was opening in about seven minutes. I felt those alpha bursts again. Only this time they tugged at me.
We started pass a store front with a large mirrored window with the words "Arcos Attorney-at-Law" professionally painted in script. I stopped to check my appearance in the mirror.
A different type of energy pulled at me and my wolf spirit felt curious about it. It pulled harder. Instinctively I knew it was an invitation. I yearned to accept so I did. The energy intertwined with mine an intangible way that was intensely personal and intimate.
Then slowly it dissipated leaving me satisfied but wanting more. I had never experienced anything like it. Something just happened but what? I looked around, no one else seemed to have noticed anything.
I asked Jacob, "Did you feel that?"
He looked at me, "I felt the alpha pulses yes. There's a strong alpha somewhere around here. I wanted to bare my neck just now."
I wanted to investigate further but the lawyer's office was closed. I felt like I was missing something as I followed Jacob over to the car show. Luckily there were only a few cars and it didn't take him long to check them out."
I couldn't relax my mind so I walked over and sat on a bench.
"Jacob can I ask you something?" I wanted to know.
"Sure sure," he said.
I asked, "Did those alpha pulses feel pleasurable to you like a rush of endorphins?"
He said, "No I wanted to bare my neck. It felt the same as baring my neck to Adam. We all did you know Earl, Sam and myself."
I looked at him surprised, "You three submitted to Adam?"
He shrugged, "Not really. We conceded that he outranks us."
He sighed, "I've learned that as a True Born Alpha I can use my alpha voice in different ways that most benefit the pack."
I felt my eyes widen, "So you're saying you can manipulate your alpha voice like that?"
He laughed, "Not exactly that one is more experienced than I am"
"You have to admit that was weird," I said.
"That guy was using his alpha pulses and we got caught in the fallout. It affected me differently because I'm an alpha myself. It wasn't even directed at us personally," he replied. It felt personal to me.
"But it shouldn't affect us. We're not in his pack," I pointed out.
"If a True alpha is powerful enough or high ranked his voice can affect other packs. Remember what Earl said about our law enforcement who reign in rogue alphas?" he inquired.
"So it's nothing to worry about?" I questioned.
Jacob stood and picked up Lily, "Naw that guy was showing off. We're going to experience a lot of new things Leah. Let's just relax and enjoy it OK?"
I felt like a burden was lifted off of my shoulders. "Ok," I said.
Jacob's Pov
The carousel attracted Lily's attention. So we got in line and purchased three tickets. Leah perched Lily on a shiny gray wolf with a bright red saddle. I stood on her left side and Leah on her right. The ride started with a soft breeze and that familiar soft carnival music. Memories of my first ride filtered through my mind.
Back then it was my mom holding me while dad snapped our picture from the sideline. I decided to relive another childhood memory.
"Let's get her some ice cream before Emily finds us," I suggested carrying Lily off the carousel.
"It's your neck Jacob Black," said Leah.
"We won't tell mommy will we?" I cooed to Lily making her laugh.
We walked over to the ice cream stand and Leah got in line. I took Lily over to a table and sat down.
Boisterous laughter drew my attention across the square to three women sitting in front of the bistro. A curvy woman with the streaked blond hair was holding out her left hand showing the others an engagement ring? A brunette with the prettiest blue eyes I've ever seen spoke rapidly in a foreign language. And that's when I noticed her!
She wore a cream colored sleeveless lace dress. Many freckles stood out against the skin of her face and arms. Glossy russet hair was pulled back from her face, to fall down her back in wild waves of naturally curly locks. Three silver studs dotted her lower lip. She sat there exquisitely gamine texting on her cell phone.
In spite of the language barrier, I figured out she answered to the name Miriella. I felt inexplicably drawn to this girl. It's like I have known her my whole life. But, in reality we haven't met. She must have felt me staring because she looked up at me. When I met her mesmerizing gray eyes gravity shifted.
Unknown Pov`
A short time earlier
"What a handsome couple," mumbled the elderly lawyer, as his client stopped speaking mid-sentence, to stare out the two way mirrored window overlooking the square. "Sir?" inquired the lawyer.
His client raised his hand for silence. "Excuse me," he said with natural authority.
"As you wish sir," the lawyer answered formally.
His client moved to the window and stood with his back facing the room. His green eyes were taking in every detail of the family checking out the wares at the antique toy vendors booth. The man a young alpha dressed impeccably in designer jeans and shirt took the little girl when she started pulling the woman's hair. "Be nice Lily," he scolded the toddler who bore a striking resemblance to her mother.
He slapped the woman an attractive she-wolf on the butt and said, "Come on. We can come back here later." The woman playfully jabbed at him with her elbow and said, "Stop that fool."
He watched their antics and smiled. But the she-wolf captured his attention. He felt so in tune with her; he might have known her for years. But she was a complete stranger. He noticed she wasn't marked yet and felt a stab of envy at the thought of her mate actually marking her.
He watched as the family started walking past the window. The she-wolf stopped and looked into the glass. She stretched her lips back to check her teeth and fluffed her hair. The client knew she couldn't actually see him, for all she seemed to be staring right at him. He tried to look away but the allure of her soft brown eyes was to strong. Then he understood as gravity shifted.
A/N: I wish I had words to express my appreciation for everyone who reads, follows, favors, and reviews this story. You are awesome! I'll keep it simple and say thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Teaser: In the next chapter we begin to see the aftermath of Jacob imprinting as Adam comes clean about the hostility between Pack Hemming and Pack Eryin.
I can't wait to see what you think of this chapter and Leah being imprinted on. Please feel free to review or even pm me. Feedback encourages me during the process of writing a chapter and to keep revising it until I'm satisfied its good enough to upload. So thank you in advance for any reviews or pm you feel inclined to share with me. I wish I could express how much its appreciated.
For the purposes of this story we are going to assume all signs are written in Lucacinian and English. It makes sense for the Lucacinian people to speak a dialect of Romanian since the countries are so close geographically.