Disclaimer: The Twilight Series and all recognizable characters belong to Stephanie Meyer. I don't own any of that. But, I do so love her stage.

A/N: Anything written in italics is a flashback, random thought, or text message depending on the context.

Note:

In the absence of a True Rex, the Wolf King holds the title of Rex as a courtesy. A true Rex may emerge to replace a High Alpha Wolf King. Remember when, Cevin Eryin and Leah herself were named as contenders?

Elijah is a High Alpha. He could potentially emerge as True Rex validating his position of Wolf King. (Refer to chapter seven for more details).

When a High Alpha emerges as Rex his wolf senses and abilities evolve. His becomes the ultimate alpha voice. (It's a similar concept as in the books, where Jacob was the true Alpha, but Sam was a competent alpha).

Rex is the Latin word for King

***Please see the authors note at the end of this chapter for info and acknowledgements*

Chapter 22: Duplicity

Unknown Pov

When a Rex first emerges he receives one of three ancient engraved totems, from the Keeper of Relics. These totems symbolize the authority of The Council of Four. The elected member receives a scepter. The totems represent the shape-shifter races, Canis, Aves and Felidae.

If a Rex becomes incompetent, incapacitated or dies, The Keeper retakes custody of the totem. He guards it until the Rex recovers, or a new one is named.

The Keeper of Relics is a hereditary job. In between official functions, the three totems are displayed in a museum.

Under Lucacinian law a Keeper can seize a totem due to malfeasance. The only Rex in history to suffer this consequence was The High Alpha Ivan Eryin.

Lucacini National Museum

The curator was surprised When Barnabus Obikan unexpectedly arrived at his office. The keeper wore his badge of office signaling an official visit. He requested a specific totem on behalf of the Council of Four.

The curator summoned the appropriate local peace officer to witness the transfer of the Canis Totem.

He had no reason to doubt Obikan as the current Keeper Of Relics. Unfortunately, when the truth came out it was to late.

Sir Jedidah Crohme's Point of View

Hawk Simon has offered to help me topple the Alpha Rex. I sent two of my top operatives to meet with him. This is a startling development, but Simon's malice towards Korzka is well known. I will listen to what he has to say, but I'm not sure I can trust him.

Meanwhile, I'm starting my campaign to undermine Korzka's reputation on the Council of Four. I will make them question his control of the packs starting with his Keeper of Relics. Next they will question his competence.

Barnabus Obikan didn't take kindly to my blackmailing him. He is the embodiment of the Keeper codes of honor. It took me hours to convince him I was serious.

I doubt it's any consolation to him, but I didn't exactly come out of this unscathed. I will never forget the anguish on his face when he realized my intentions. It's ironic because I actually like him.

He befriended me and trusted me. I took advantage of that trust, of him. Am I wrong for feeling guilt? I refuse to castigate myself for feeling emotions. It's a weakness.

Legend says the shape-shifter totems embody the strength their races. Korzka losing possession of his just prior to the Pre-Round Table is a bad omen. The Canis are superstitious about such things.

Cevin doesn't agree with my vision. However, fortune has smiled on us. As a High Alpha, Cevin is qualified to challenge Korzka for Rex. Why stop at Eryin? We can have all of Lucacini!

The Lady Miriella is the key. She is the perfect pawn to motivate an Alpha challenge between Cevin and Korzka. I hate planning to use her, but we all must make sacrifices even Cevin.

However, there is an unforeseen bonus. Apparently Miriella has imprinted on an Alpha from Pack Bishop. This should cause the American shape-shifters to side with us. They will support their Alpha.

I have to be extra cautious. My part in plotting against Korzka must never be disclosed. Meanwhile, I will wait, plan, and observe.

Leah's Pov

Wulfrin's Cove just outside of Jeroisa City

Elijah mentioned the Aves Rex by name, but I didn't realize he was that Hawk Simon! Are you telling me that petulant man child is one of our kings? You have got to be kidding me!

"Are you serious?" I whispered.

"Yes," Elijah replied nonchalantly."

I couldn't help glancing over my shoulder in awe. Simon raised one eyebrow sardonically. I quickly turned back the color rising in my cheeks.

I could feel Elijah's eyes on me, but he didn't say anything. He simply guided me into the dining room where he seated me, before taking own his seat. His old world manners are sexy as hell.

The hostess opened a concealed door in the back wall. A distinguished looking chef led two servers pushing carts into the room. The hostess introduced him as Executive Chef Costel Balan.

He bowed deeply and greeted us in Lucacinian, before signaling the servers. They stepped forward to offer a variety of appetizers, and a framed dinner menu.

Elijah helped me decide what to try, explaining what the dishes were. From the menu I choose a lobster salad with beetroot. Elijah preferred the stuffed whitefish served with a silky lemon and caper sauce.

The servers plated our appetizers and stepped back to flank the door. The chef himself poured our wine before bowing out of the room with the hostess.

Elijah watched the door close before he said, "You're in for a treat. Chef Costel Balan is excellent."

I glanced at the two servers feeling out of my element. "You're really a big shot around here aren't you?," I asked trying to sound playful.

Elijah gave me a blank look and it occurred to me that being acquainted with kings and meeting Executive Chefs was normal for him. I changed the subject, "Just now in the hall, what was that all about?"

"Simon plays some nefarious game as usual," Elijah answered dismissively.

I was not willing to let it go, "So do you know the Felidae Rex? What's he like?"

Elijah sat back in his chair, "Tiberius Uvimayah is the oldest member of the Council Of Four. He tends to be the peacekeeper among the members."

"So how many of the First Alpha's do you know?" I asked.

Elijah smiled at me, "I know all of them."

I raised and eyebrow trying to look cute, "How about the High Alphas?"

A familiar humor sparked in his eyes, "I know all of them also."

"So what's it like hanging around with the Round Table and Council of Four?" I wanted to know.

Elijah smirked, "There is a lot of incessant auguring between the alpha's."

The food was delicious and the servers were attentive and respectful. Elijah kept the conversation light telling me humorous anecdotes and funny stories about the Round Table and Council Of Four.

Everything about my imprint is new and fascinating. I watched him dab at his lips with his napkin. I was fantasizing about kissing those lips, when I was interrupted. A sharp rap sounded on the door, followed by a familiar voice, "Korzka"

"What in the world?" Elijah wondered out loud. "Come," he said standing up.

The door opened and Beta Alexe stomped in. In wolf form, he would have his hackles up.

He abruptly lowered his eyes, "Sir we have a situation. Dr. Clearwater." He acknowledged me almost as an afterthought.

In the hall behind him, I could see Julien and Delta Allen conversing in Lucacinian.

Elijah's eyes narrowed "Excuse me," he said before turning to the Beta.

Alexe cleared his throat, "Nicolae and Caprian Dounot have been spotted in this area."

Elijah stood stock still. "You are aware Hawk Simon is on the premises?" he asked quietly.

Alexe swallowed, "We scented him, it could be be a coincidence."

Elijah looked at him as if to say "You have got to be kidding me."

Alexe narrowed his eyes considering.

Elijah said, "It's no coincidence. Simon hinted as much to me in the hall."

Alexe whistled low, "He spoke to you? That was a bold move on his part!"

"He attempted to ridicule my imprinting," Elijah replied.

Beta Alexe gaped at him, "I don't like this."

Suddenly Julien and Delta Allen were watching us intently, growling low.

Elijah didn't answer he just looked at me pointedly.

Beta Alexe abruptly changed the subject, "Barnabus Obikan has seized the Canis Totem Of The Ancients."

Elijah nodded, seeming resigned, "We all knew it was possible for a True Rex to emerge. Does the First Beta concur?"

Alexe sighed, "That's what I came in here to tell you. Adam didn't know anything about this. Barnabus acted on his own."

Elijah shrugged, "He must have his reasons. Who is showing the signs?"

Alexe hesitated, "No one."

Elijah gave him a blank look.

Alexe said, " Adam contacted the packs, Zuniga, Reed, all of them. He even spoke with Dr. Craine about Eryin. No one is emerging."

Elijah frowned, "Obikan has always respected the law. What did he have to say?"

"No one can question him. He disappeared with the totem leaving a cryptic note with Dr. Andrews," Alexe replied.

Elijah looked like he was losing patience, "Well what does the note say?"

Julien walked over to join their conversation, "Obikan claims he was asked to seize the totem by someone he trusts. Dr. Andrews collaborates his story."

Elijah's jaw clenched so tight it looked painful. I felt pure malice pooling off his body almost palpable enough to touch, "Who asked this of him?" he asked silkily.

Beta Alexe took a step back, "You did."

A/N: Thank you for reading, reviewing, and following this story. It means a lot to me.

Authors Note: I would like to profusely apologize for the long delay in updating. I began having significant difficulties in the summer. A lot was going on with me.

I won't bore you with the details and just say I have recently started a new job which I love. Things have settled down thankfully so I'm sorry guys.

I hope you are still interested in this story. This is a short chapter but I really wanted to post an update. Please consider reviewing.