A/N: Sorry for the wait but here's chapter 3! Hope you all enjoy!
I watched as Bella laid down in the center of the circle. I had very mixed feelings about all of this. I hated that she was being forced into a role that would take away any chance of a normal life. There would be no college, no career, no dating, her life from this point on would be about protecting all of mankind from the worst evils imaginable. Death and battle would be a major part of her life. On the other hand without the gifts Atropos would bestow on her Bella would be a sitting duck. Once a chosen soul reaches eighteen they admit a supernatural aura that demons would be able to follow right to her, without any training even the lowest of demons wouldn't break a sweat killing her.
I looked out to the horizon, the sun had just started to disappear. It was time. I walked forward and lit the fire. The flames grew as the wood crackled and popped.
Thunder rumbled in the distance. I turned and saw Drustan standing with his arms outstretched, palms up, and his head thrown back looking at the darkening sky. The hairs on my arm stood up as the air around us rippled with power.
The flames rose higher reaching high into the night. I knew the heat must be getting intense but Bella seemed immune to it. She lay still with her eyes shut, the only sign she was alive was the rise and fall of her chest.
Thunder crashed again as rain started to fall. Harrison was now mimicking Drustan's stand on the opposite side of the circle. Power crackled over my skin, even after decades of witnessing the warriors manipulate the elements it was still awe inspiring.
Drustan called the rain down causing the fire to smoke excessively. Harrison summoned the wind creating a small cyclone with Bella laying in the eye. The winds would force Bella to inhale enough of the smoke to open her mind enough for Altropos to create the link.
Before Bella and I had made it to the top of the butte Drustan stacked the wood while Harrison lined it with a dried plant similar to peyote. As most people grow up they slowly put a block on their mind that hides the supernatural from their view, following the "If I can't see it it's not real" mentality. Since Bella has had exposure to the supernatural world her block is not as strong as someone who had remained untouched, but it is still too strong for her to allow Altropos to make contact with her unaided. That is way the smoke it needed. It will remove the block and release her mind to her full potential.
I felt the heat from the flames and the cool drops of rain gently dripping on my skin soaking my thin clothes. Fire and Ice. Just like Edward and Jacob. I took deep breaths and tasted the sweet smoke as it blew across my body and into my eager lungs. My eyes easily remained closed as all of my muscles relaxed. In the back of my mind I wondered why I wasn't nervous anymore. Most people would be worried about smoke inhalation or burning to a crisp but I felt completely at ease. My finger tips and toes began to tingle as my body became weightless. I felt so light, I wouldn't of been surprised if I floated into the sky and drifted about the earth like a helium balloon.
The rain and wind disappeared. I felt my body slowly start to regain it's mass sinking onto something so soft I imagined it was a cloud.
"Open your eyes Isabella." a voice drifted into my ears. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever heard. It was feminine but deep like a soul singer, it was soft and comforting yet hard as steel. It sent a chill down my spine as my heart warmed. Fire and Ice.
I opened my eyes and found that my cloud was actually a forest green chaise centered in the middle of the most beautiful temple I had ever seen. It was easily identifiable as Ionic style of ancient Greece. The roof was held up by massive pillars that sparkled in the sun putting Edward's diamond skin to shame. My eyes searched for the owner of the magical voice only to find myself alone.
A beam of sunlight shone through a gap between the pillars. The light began to intensify I tried to keep my eyes open but was unable to, the light grew so bright I felt it deep in my soul, the light subsided leaving multicolored spots dancing in front of my eyelids.
When my vision cleared my jaw dropped at the sight before me. There stood the most beautiful woman I had even seen, probably the most beautiful woman of all time. She was tall just under six foot. Her skin was tan not as dark as Jacob but as if she spend most of her time out in the sunlight. Her hair was black and extremely thick. I noticed it shimmered red when the sun hit it just right. Her hair was intricately braided, small braids looped, twisted , and twirled from her hairline to the tie at the top of her head, the rest fell to the small of her back in a sleek ponytail.
Her face was hard angles and soft line all at once. Her eyes were large and framed by dark thick lashes, and were oddly familiar. Her irises were the deep evergreen of the purest pine trees, her bottom lip was a little fuller than her top and the color of a rich Merlot wine my mother was so fond of.
Her body was covered in dark skin tight leather that resembled gladiator armor. A piece of silver connected to a point six inches from the edge of her shoulder. Her chest piece rounded and rested just above her collar bones. Thin lines of silver and gold swirled into an intricate knot pattern the ended at her thick leather belt. Below her belt lay a pleated skirt ending at her mid-thigh. There were alternating gold and silver rivets in vertical lines set about six inches apart around the entire skirt. Each rivet had a unique symbol engraved into it's race. She had boots made with the same dark leather that hugged her toned legs to just above her knee. Thick leather laces tie the boot in the front as silver and gold swirled from the toe to around the back of her calf. She wore an armband on each bicep. Each and strange markings etched into them.
Dark green eyes assessed me as I did her before a small smile formed at the edge of her lips.
"Hello Isabella. I am Altropos the eldest sister of Moiria and you my child are my greatest champion. I have waited a very long time to meet you."
I was still awestruck by her appearance and the apparent fact that everything I had been told however unbelievable was true. My mouth opened and closed but no sound came out. Altropos stepped forward and removed a large circular shield from her back it looked vaguely similar to those worn by Spartan warriors.
"We have too little time and much to discuss so I believe it would be best if we get straight to business."
She unseethed two very large, very heavy looking broadswords setting them on the floor by her shield. She took a seat on a large plush arm chair across from me. i was 99% positive that it hadn't been there a moment before.
"Yeah that's probably a good idea." I said finding my voice.
She nodded pleased with my agreement.
"Good. First things first, there is no more time for doubt. I hope I am safe to assume that you believe what you have been told about your destiny."
I shook my head yes.
"If it isn't true then I need to be committed." I murmured.
Her lips twitched in what I hoped was a smile and not a sneer. I would be lying if I didn't admit that I was scared shitless, she was extremely intimidating.
"Calm down young one you will always be safe with me. I chose your soul long ago and have watched you everyday of your life. I saw your first smile and your first steps. I have been with you in spirit your entire life. I was also there when those filthy Cullens came and tried to steal you from me. It takes a lot to scared me but I was scared for you my daughter. Knowing you were in so much danger and no longer your own control, all while I sat powerless to help you."
I shrugged my shoulders.
"It really could have been much worse. Edward managed to get to me in time before the venom could really spread. I broke a few bones but the only permanent damage is this scar." I explained holding out my wrist for her to see. Altropos looked shocked.
"Bella I am not talking about James, I'm talking about the Cullens themselves. Don't you know what they did to you?"
"What do you mean what they did to me?"
Altropos sighed and placed a hand on my knee.
"Sweetheart I want you to tell me what you know of the Cullen family member's extra gifts."
"Edward could read minds ,well most minds he couldn't read mine. Alice could see the future and Jasper could influence people's emotions." I answered without missing a beat.
"You're right about Edward and Alice however Jasper doesn't influence peoples emotions that implies a slight push in a given direction. No he is much more powerful than that. Jasper Hale controls peoples emotions. He has the ability to make people feel however he wants."
I scrunched my nose in confusion.
"What does that have to do with what they did to me?"
"What I'm about to tell you is going to come as quite a shock but I swear everything I'm going to say is the absolute truth. As a sister of Moiria I am incapable of lying even the slightest bit."
I wasn't sure I wanted to know what she was about to reveal to me. It must be serious to illicit this type of reaction from her. I nodded my head and squeezed my hands together waiting for the blow I know was about to come. I looked into her eyes and saw regret.
Oh yeah this is gonna be bad.
"Before your Alice was turned into a vampire she was a patient in a mental hospital. She was being treated for schizophrenia and hallucinations. There was a doctor there not unlike Carlisle who tried to live peacefully. He knew Alice was not insane but was actually a seer. He was working on getting her released into his care when extenuating circumstances forced his hand and he turn her in an attempt to save her and her rare gift. The pair lived peacefully for awhile until one night Alice a vision. She saw the third Warrior of Light coming of age in Forks, Washington. She became obsessed with finding you. She tried numerous times to convince her maker to travel there and wait for you. He refused. He tried to tell her that she was getting involved in something very dangerous. Not long after Alice found her way to Jasper Witlock who you know as Jasper Hale.
Jasper was formerly first in command under one of the most depraved warlord. He was ruthless, deadly, and has yet to be defeated in battle. together the two of them devised a plan to turn you. Alice tracked down the Cullens and convinced them to help. Edward was immediately on board while the others took a little more convincing."
"What if their plan was to turn me into a vampire then why would Edward have stopped transformation?" I interrupted.
"Well two reasons actually. One: sucking the venom out of your wrist gave Edward the excuse to bite you himself. When a vampire bites a human but does not inject venom it creates a link. The vampire will be able to know exactly where that human is, think of it almost like a leash tying the two together. It will also compel the human to want to make the change. Edward was already planning on biting you James just gave him a cover story. To unleash your powers as a force of darkness you would have to willingly make the change to a creature of darkness. Second for your powers to manifest for light or darkness you had to be eighteen. If you would have turned when James bit you, you would have been a regular a regular vampire and not the weapon they were hoping for."
"No. Edward loved me. He left to protect me from his kind. He never wanted to be a vampire."
It wasn't that I didn't believe her but what she was saying didn't add up to how Edward treated me. Then again the last time I saw Alice and Jasper weren't exactly acting the way they used to. I was afraid of them.
"Leaving was not part of their plan the moment you turned eighteen Harrison and Drustan could feel the connection to you. The rushed to find you and when they did they became aware of the Cullen's plot towards you. They confronted the Cullens giving them the benefit of the doubt seeing as they were naturally peaceful and offer them the choice to leave alive swearing to never come in contact you again or be killed. Rosalie and Emmett chose to leave while the others refused Alice already knowing what was to come prepared the Cullens and they fled. Harrison and Drustan chased them to Europe determined to end the Cullens before they could become more of a threat, they only returned when Alice and Jasper disappeared from the rest of the coven. Luckily they made it back for you in time before the vampires could get you back to Edward. He was convinced that your love for him would only increase after seeing him again especially with Jasper's help and you would be willing to make the change. What you have to realize Bella is that Edward was never in love with you nor were you ever in love with him."
I gasped.
"What?" I asked my voice trembling.
Altropos looked at me with sad eyes.
"Remember what I told you about Jasper he used his power to make you believe that you were in love with Edward. He made you loyal to the Cullens and lessened the bond with you other friends and even your father."
I felt bile hit the back of my throat.
"I'm gonna be sick." I frantically began searching for something bucket like. Altropos held a fancy looking garbage can under my chin as I threw up Drustan's special breakfast. It wasn't so wonderful on the way back up.
I felt dirty. I'd been used a manipulated by people who I had trusted and loved. The feelings may have been created by Jasper but they felt real to me. I hadn't noticed before but Altropos was right. When I became involved with Edward I no longer cared about anything or anyone else, not even my own father.
Edward, that sick bastard. He kissed me, he held me, he even told me he loved me when he knew it was all lies. I felt disgusted with myself. I wanted out of my skin. I wished there was a way to wash away the memory of my feelings.
Altropos held my hair back as I vomited into the garbage can. She was making soothing noises, or she may have been saying soothing words but my mind wasn't comprehending any of it.
I had been violated. My sickness switched to anger. How dare they? How dare they take away someone's freedom of will.
"Good. Rage is good. You can use that but you have to learn to control it or it will control you." Altropos murmured.
"Why would they do that? What would they gain. If I am the third warrior wouldn't it be my mission to kill them once I came into my powers?"
"Yes it would unless they could get you to willing allow the darkness to extinguish your light, turning your powers into powers of darkness. Demons are always trying to convince warriors to switch sides." Altropos explained.
"Has anyone ever chosen that?
Altropos turned her head and looked off into the distance.
"Just once. Every other champion chose death over becoming a monster. We fight for life and would never choose to destroy it. Yet one was taken in by their promises and chose to fight against us."
I was appalled. "Who?" I asked.
"That my daughter is not my story to tell. You will be told when the time is right."
My hands fisted as my nails bit into my palm. "If I do this would I be able to stop other creatures from using people the was the Cullens used me?
Altropos flashed a deadly smile. "That my dear would be your job."
"Then I'm in."
My mind was made up. I would never stand by and allow anyone to be violated and abused the way I had been.
"Then I think it's time for me to unlock your powers. This may feel a little strange but I promise it won't hurt."
At her words Altropos leaned forward and placed both of her hands on my head. I felt a tingle on the back of my neck that spread to my toes. It felt like there was a low voltage electric current running over my skin. I looked down and saw that I was glowing. A dark green light surrounded me like a second skin. Altropos removed her hands and the light faded.
"He's a very lucky man that Jacob Black."
A blush darkens my face right before my heart sinks as I remember my last few moments with him. Everything had been such chaos I hadn't had the time to really process everything that happened that night.
'He hates me." I whispered.
"Oh child, Jacob Black still has a major role to play in your life. Not now, but in the not to distant future. Each of you have things you will have to overcome on your own before you see each other again. Right now you need to focus on you training with Harrison and Drustan. You are now one of the three most powerful beings on earth. You are going to have to learn how to control that power. The three of you are going to have to learn to work as one unit. Apart you will fail, together you can change the world. What do you feel when you are around your fellow warriors?"
I was a little surprised by her question. I didn't know wither of them. Hell I'd barely spent an hour in their company awake. I took my time replaying every interaction I'd had with each of them knowing she wouldn't take I don't know as an answer.
"I feel surprisingly at ease with them. Now that I know they weren't lying to me I trust them. Subconsciously I think I trusted them before even when I had my doubts. Harrison reminds me a little bit of my dad, but he seems to be a little more open than Charlie. Drustan...well Drustan is very charming. I don't know why but I know I wouldn't have handled this half as well without him, he seemed to know exactly how to reassure me. He's just so easy to be around, I feel connected to him. It seems a little strange to me but I feel as if I've known him my whole life and that scares me. When he grabbed my hand earlier I liked it, not the same way I do when Jacob holds my hand but I still felt like I needed to hold on to him. I don't want that. I love Jake too much to ever feel that way about anyone else and I wouldn't want to love anyone else even if I could. Jacobs it for me." my hands were shaking by the time I finished. I hadn't realized my concerns about Drustan until I had voiced them out loud. Altropos reached out and gently cupped my cheek while wiping away a stray tear with her thumb, her eyes were filled with concern.
I wondered if this is what motherly affection felt like. Renee never really cared about my feelings, she was always too busy dealing with herself. I was always the one wiping her eyes when her most recent Mr. Right ran for the hills.
"Bella Drustan's destiny is intertwined with your, it always has been. You were destined to meet and be a major part of each others lives. You need each other. I really shouldn't say this but I can see how much this weighs on your heart and I don't want you pushing him away in fear of feelings developing between the two of you. You and Drustan are not intended to be lovers. you have to understand the bond between the Warriors. You, Harrison, and Drustan will live, fight, and possibly die together. Part of our gift to each of you was each other. you will be closer than family and love each other more than you can imagine. This life can be a lonely one as you will have to leave many people behind, but you will never be alone again. Spend some time with them and you will understand you have nothing to fear from either of them."
I immediately relaxed. I was glad to know that my love for Jacob wouldn't cause any issues between Drustan and I. Even though I'd only know him for a short amount of time I knew I needed him.
"What's Old Quil's part in all of this? How does he know so much?"
"Old Quil is very special he has been blessed in his own way. Be happy Bella you've gained a grandfather, a second father, and a best friend all in one day." Altropos chuckled.
She stood and gave me a sad smile "Out time together is over."
I felt panicked. I wasn't ready to say goodbye I still had so many questions I needed answers to!
"Wait!" I cried desperately. "Will I get to see you again?"
Altropos turned and wrapped me in a tight hug, stroking my hair with her one hand.
"Our connection has been made my daughter. I will always be here when you need me. I have been with you everyday I won't abandon you now."
I stood in her embrace until the deep boom of a gong sounded from off in the distance. Altropos dropped a quick kiss on my forehead and glided in front of two very large wooden doors. With one hand on the handle she paused and turned back to me.
"Don't doubt yourself Bella. you are the most powerful champion we've ever had. Work hard and focus on discovering and controlling your gifts. There is a great darkness coming. We haven't seen it's equal in over a millennium the Warriors of Light need to be ready to meet it."
I released my hold and allowed the wind to calm once I saw Bella enveloped in a hunter green light. Altropos was unlocking her power and granting her her gifts. What she was gifted would remain a mystery until Bella began training. I breathed a sigh of relief, after two hundred years of being the solitary Bellatore de Lumine I now had not one but both Clothos and Altropos champions with me. We were no complete and once Bella mastered her powers we could once again vanquish darkness from the world. We had a lot of work to do.
Unfortunately being a lone warrior left me at a distinct disadvantage. If all three warrior are defeated then our race would become extinct and hell on earth would be a very real thing. I fought where I could but a lone man even one as powerful as me can only do so much against an army of million. Luckily I did manage to gain quite a few allies in my time of need. Something rarely done before.
Warriors of Light have an extremely close bond which is one of our biggest assets but it also caused us to avoid help. Not because the they thought it was unneeded they just never trusted anyone else enough to fight alongside them. Any warrior would gladly give their life for his or her fellow warriors. Each knew that when entering a battle that the two other people would be there to defend them if needed. The three warriors would fight in perfect synchronization, each knowing what the others would do before they did it. When you added a stranger into the mix you added numerous unforetold variables and variables increased the chances for mistakes. Mistakes could be fatal and no Warrior would ever risk the others in such a way.
In my case already having lost both of my fellow warriors I had no choice but to adapt and learn to work with others to achieve my goal. One of my most trusted allies and best friend was the now gray haired Indian Shaman to my right.
Old Quil was barely hiding his amusement at poor Drustan and his nerves. Catching my eye he pointed at the young blonde warrior as the the damn broke and laughter poured from him. I could help but smile a s Drustan halted mid pace to glare at my old friend.
"What is so funny?" Drustan snarled.
Old Quil has many amazing qualities but one of his faults was not knowing when to keep his mouth shut.
"You are! My god the way your pacing back and forth you would think we sent her to fight a horde of demons. She is with Altropos, there is no safer place for her than by the side of her chosen sister. Who knew you'd be such a mother hen."
Old Quil was too busy laughing to notice the signs but I knew what was coming as Drustan's irises began to roll and swirl like the seas. The sky just above Old Quil opened up and rain came down in buckets. The old man sputtered and tried to move out of the rain but the storm just followed him wherever he went.
"Damn you, you big goon! Turn this damn thing off! Why is it so cold? I know you can make warm rain!" he yelled still trying to outrun the rain with no success. Actually it was having the opposite effect the more Old Quil tried to evade the storm the more rain fell onto his head. I shivered when he ran to close causing a few drops to hit my arm. He wasn't kidding that water was freezing. i walked next to Drustan to avoid the cross fire knowing he'd never allow the water to hit himself.
"So why is the water so cold? Where did you summon it from?" I asked my laughing young friend.
"Off the top of a glacier floating in the Arctic Ocean, but wait we're just getting to the good part."
At that moment I hear a slew of curses that would make a sailor proud spew from Old Quil.
"Damn you Drustan! I got salt in my eyes! You bastard it tastes like dead fish!"
"Maybe that will teach you to keep you mouth shut." Drustan retorted still laughing.
"Do I even want to know where that came from?" I questioned.
"Wantagh, New York number one most polluted beach in the United States."
I had to admit the boy was good he definitely had Clothos sense of humor. He'd come a long way in the last ten years he's grown up a lot but this was one part of him I never wanted to change. Our work is so messy and serious we sometimes need a laugh to remind us everything is not all dark all the time.
"You care about her a lot." I said it not as a question but as a fact.
"Of course I do she is our third. I didn't expect to feel such a pull to her though. Don't get me wrong I love you more than my own life, you're the father i never had but always wanted. With her it's different…I feel so protective of her."
I nodded my head in agreement that was how I expected him to answer I'd seen the way he hovered around her.
"I feel it too there is an intense pull towards her, but I think you may be more affected because she's going to need you more."
I saw his eyebrows jump into his hairline at my words.
"Think about it you just went through all of this and your her age. I was forty-five when I was chosen and that was almost six hundred years ago. She's going to need you son, and I know you'll be there for her."
Our conversation was interrupted by Bella's gasp. Without a moments hesitation Drustan hurdled the still smoldering logs and swept Bella up and began spinning them both around in circles. Bella's laughed filled the night air and I felt a little weight leave my shoulders.
"Is this your way of saying I told you so?" I heard her ask.
Drustan's laugh joined hers as he spun them both faster. I'd heard Drustan laugh everyday for the past ten years and not once had it sounded like that. This laugh was filled with pure joy. They stopped spinning and Drustan squeezed her tight against him before sliding her to the ground. He rested his forehead against hers and smiled down at her. I got a little nervous at his open display of affection. Though his pull was strong towards her Bella may not be equally affected and confuse his intent. My fears were relieved when I watched her warmly return his smile giving him a tight hug of her own.
Lachesis came to me a year ago to tell me that it was almost time to find the thirds warrior. She also warned that the bond would be more important this time. She said that we would have to make sure our bond was the strongest to date. My heart clenched in it's usual way as I thought of my previous comrades and their down fall. Maybe if our bond had been stronger things could have been different.
"I told you so." Drustan whispered to Bella.
Hearing so many layers of emotion in those four words brought a smile to my face. I knew then that this time things would be different.
When Drustan finally released Bella she turned to face the other two men. Harrison stepped forward and wrapped her in a giant bear hug.
"Your officially one of us now lass. Welcome home."
"Thank you I'm sorry about not believing you before…I'm probably not your first choice for this." she mumbled looking at the ground.
Harrison turned her face to meet his, "Don't say that we've been waiting a very long time for you darling. We're a family and we couldn't be prouder to have you as a part of it."
With misty eyes she turned to Old Quil surprised to find him soaking wet.
"Umm...why do you look like a drowned rat?"
Old Quil stiffened and pointed an angry finger at Drustan.
"That asshole decided to drench me." he fumed.
"Maybe next time you won't call me a mother hen." Drustan retorted.
Bella laughed at the two men's antics as a swirling wind surround Old Quil. Moments later he was standing before them fully dry. Bella turned to Harrison with a cheeky grin.
"So you like the drying station at a car wash."
Everyone laughed and Harrison knew it would be a long time before Drustan let him live that comment down.
The four companions found themselves entering the kitchen an half an hour later. Much to Bella's happiness the trip back down was much easier. She managed to navigate her way down the rocky path without stumbling once. When she mentioned the momentous occurrence Harrison informed her that she wouldn't have to worry about being clumsy anymore.
"Warriors of Light are naturally graceful." he explained.
In Bella's eyes this was a huge perk no more stumbling and falling down like a drunken toddler.
"Well I'm sure Bella's tired she's had a big day. Why don't we all get some sleep and we'll start training tomorrow." Harrison suggested.
Bella stood with both hands resting on the back of one of the kitchen chairs fidgeting from one leg to the other.
"Actually, I'm really wired do you guys mind staying up a bit?" she asked with a hopefully expression.
"This is the perfect opportunity for the four of us to kill a couple of cold ones!" Old Quil exclaimed, excitedly rubbing his hands together as he disappeared behind the dividing wall that lead behind the island.
"He is joking right? There's no way he can seriously be considering that...can he?" Bella asked a bewildered look on her face. She understood that killing vampires was part of her job but even though she was gifted her powers (whatever they were) she didn't feel anymore capable of completing that task than she did yesterday.
He question was answered when Old Quil came back in the room carrying a twelve pack of Budweiser.
"Cold ones get it Bella." he laughed throwing her a wink. He knew what she would've assumed and couldn't resist the chance to pull her chain. Everyone sat down as he passed out three beers before grabbing one for himself and taking a seat.
The three men easily popped open the bottles and took a long swig while Bella stated at hers like it was a foreign object.
"Haven't you ever had a drink before?" Drustan asked.
"Well umm..no I haven't." Bella blushed and fidgeted self consciously.
Harrison and Old Quil beamed at her as if she just discovered the cure for cancer while Drustan wore a look of shock and disbelief.
"Good for you lass, too many youngins get wrapped up acting older than they are." Harrison said given Drustan a pointed look.
"Well in my case it's the other way around I'm older than I look and act." Drustan laughed.
"Oh goodie I get to be the one to corrupt you Little Light." Old Quil smiled before pointing at her his expression now serious.
"Don't you dare tell Charlie he'll tan my hide and throw me in a cell."
Bella laughed at the truth in his words if Charlie found out Old Quil gave her a beer he'd do much worse than throw him in a cell.
"Don't worry lass, it wont affect you the way it would a regular person. We just drink it because for some reason it tastes better to us than everyone else."
"It's true Old Quil lost a lot of money once when he bet he could get me drunk. Ten twenty-four pack later he called it quits and I still wasn't even buzzed."
"Yeah that was the stupidest $240 I ever lost. I never should have agreed to a dollar a bottle." Old Quil grumbled. He had been so sure he was going to win that one.
Convinced Bella tossed back the beer and downed half the bottle as the three men cheered her on. Them moment the bottle left her lips Old Quil couldn't contain himself any longer.
"So you met Altropos what was she like?" he asked eagerly.
"Damn it you keep losing me more money! Why must you act like such an old bitty?" Drustan shouted as he handed Harrison a new hundred dollar bill. Harrison then made a big show of holding it to the light checking to make sure it was real.
"She was gorgeous, intimidating, but very kind. She told me to trust you both and focus on my training. She said something big is coming, something worse than they've seen in a thousand years. She said we needed to be ready."
That statement would have immediately sobered up everyone sitting at the table if the alcohol had affected them. Old Quil wanted to ease some of the tension so he asked "So you mean you didn't talk about me? I thought you love me Bella."
Bella smiled at his his humorous attempt at a puppy dog face.
"We actually did talk about you. Altropos had some very interesting things to say about you. She told me that you were special and blessed in you own way. Care to explain?"
"Nope" he said exaggerating the p sound. "I think I'll make you guess for awhile. Did she say anything else?" leaning back and taking a long sip.
"It may sound cheesy but she told me that I gained a second father, a grandfather, and a best friend."
Meeting the eyes of each of the men at their respective title. He face fell she already had a father and a best friend. Drustan passed her another open beer and she drained it in two swallows.
"Speaking of fathers and best friends how where Charlie and Jacob when you left?" she asked he newly adoptive grandfather.
Old Quil became extremely interested in the fine print on the bottle's label. He knew this question was coming but that didn't mean he wanted to answer it. He knew the answer would only upset her.
"Answer me Quil and I want the truth." she ordered looking him directly in the eye. That was Atropos's influence. Bella may not notice but she was already coming into her true self. The old Bella never would have been so forceful and direct. With a sigh he nodded his head.
"I told you I'd never lie to you Bella and I meant it." After a rather large drink he continued, "They're both taking it pretty hard. Charlie is a mad man, he's barely slept or ate since he found you gone. He's been at the station using all of his connections to find you. He thinks you left because of him. Billy and Sue have been with him trying to help but he barely acknowledges them. He just keeps making calls trying to find the tiniest lead. Jacob was no better. That night he was so angry he tried to go back and hunt down the Cullens but Sam alpha ordered him to stay on the reservation. That's when he broke down he just fell to the ground and stayed there, Embry and my grandson carried him home. Billy told me screamed your name in his sleep and when he woke up he took off. He barely made it out the door before he phased. The pack hasn't heard from him sense. He went full wolf and ran too far for the pack mind to work. He was still gone when I left to come see you."
Bella sobbed into her hands as her heart broke. Why? Why did everything have to be so hard? Every time she turned around she was hurting those two.
Two sets of strong arms surrounded her as both Harrison and Drustan offered her their support and comfort.
Drustan felt for Bella but he couldn't related. He didn't know what is was like to leave someone you loved behind. He didn't have anyone to worry about him when Harrison came for him. Even though he didn't know what her pain felt like he could still let her know he was here and that he cared, so he held her while she cried out her pain.
Bella's sobs eventually subsided and her grief was replaced by raw determination. She lifted her head and both men released her.
"I will not give up Charlie." she said through gritted teeth.
"Altropos told me Jacob and I could not be together now and I know that she's right but I will not send my father to an early grave because of this. I wont tell him the truth that would be too dangerous but if I don't tell him something he will never stop looking for me. I love him too much to let him think this is his fault."
If she were discussing any other topic Harrison would have smiled at her determination, like Old Quil he had already noticed the changes in Bella.
"You won't be able to see him in person until you get control of you gifts but you could keep in contact over the phone until then." he offered.
"Bella's smile was blinding at his response she had assumed they would have the closed door rules as the Cullens.
"We just need a good cover story of why you won't be able to return home or see him for awhile." Drustan added thoughtfully.
Everyone was trying to think of a suitable cover story when Old Quil shouted "Ah ha!" pointing his finger skyward at the proverbial light bulb.
"I've got it! You can say you joined the Peace Corps." he finished with a proud smile.
Harrison and Drustan both smile at the idea before Bella interrupted.
"Small problem, most volunteers have a four year degree and I don't even have my diploma."
She wouldn't explain that she had thought about using this very excuse with Charlie after Edward turned her.
"What if we say you got in on some sort of scholarship program. you could say you're finishing your high school classes and earning college credits in the field." Drustan suggested.
"That might just work." Bella smiled.
"I'll call him first thing in the morning. Would you guys mind being there? You know for moral support, plus I'm a terrible liar and if he asks any questions I'm not expecting I may need help."
All three men quickly agree glad to be able to help in anyway.
"Oh and Quil will you do me a favor?"
"Anything." he answered.
"Will you call billy tomorrow and find out about Jake. He may think I abandoned him and hate me but I l-love him. I know there's no way we can tell them the truth but I still need to know that he's okay."
Old Quil reached across the table taking her hands as Drustan and Harrison each wrapped an arm around her shoulders.
"Of course Bella."
All three men squeezed her and Bella was filled with the smallest bit of hope that maybe she would make it through this.
Bella tried to put on a brave face but she knew the other could see right through her act. Thankfully they didn't call her on it. She hugged Harrison and Old Quil as Drustan followed her out of the kitchen stating he would walk her to her room. The pair walked in silence to up the stairs and down the hallway to her bedroom door. Bella turned the knob and Drustan grabbed her elbow before she could enter the room.
"I know this is a lot to take in and I know you hurting. I just want to let you know that I'm here if you ever want to talk."
"I know thank you Drustan."
Bella smiled and stepped thru the door, as she turned to close the door Drustan's had shot out to stop her.
"Don't give up on Jacob just yet. I know things look dark right now but you never know what the future holds." he said before turning away.
To tired to think about what he said Bella flopped onto the bed fully dressed. She was asleep before her head hit the pillow.
Charlie Swan was exhausted both physically and mentally. Seven days ago his daughter went missing and it was all his fault. His baby girl was out there somewhere and he wouldn't stop until he found her. One of his deputies had made the mistake of suggesting she may be dead. Charlie decked him before he could even finish his sentence. She was not dead. Not his Bella. She was his whole life he would know if she were dead because his reason for living would have died with her.
Charlie slowly walked up his front walk to the front door, his head hung low. This morning had been bad. not as bad as yesterday when he woke up with the hangover from hell but it was a close second. After god knows how many phones calls and favors there was still no sign of his daughter. It was as if she disappeared into thin air. he pulled his keys out of his pocket and placed them in the heard the loud ring of the phone and fumbled trying to get the ancient lock to turn. He had meant to replace the damned thing last year when it started to stick but never got around to it.
"Hi you've reached the Swan residence. If you're looking for Charlie he's probably out fishing with Billy."
Charlie froze at Bella's voice.
"If you're looking for Bella she's probably in la Push with Jacob." The sound of his own voice brought him back to the present. He remembered the day they made that recording, Charlie had only added his part to tease Bella thinking she would erase it. He was shocked when she insisted they keep it saying it made her laugh and was the truth. He would never forget the way Jake strutted around after calling and getting the machine for the first time.
"Hi dad it's me...Bella."
That wasn't part of the recording, his heart leapt as he barged through the door. tripping on the door facing he landed on the hardwood in the entryway.
"I was just calling to let you know that I'm okay." he heard her voice say over the machine.
"Shit! Don't hang up! Don't hang up!" he chanted as he scrambled to his feet.
"Well I guess I'm gonna go since you're not home."
"No! Don't hang up! I'm here please god don't hang up!" he yelled wishing she could hear him as he raced to the kitchen. He snatched the old corded phone of the wall hoping he wasn't to late.
"Bella! Bella I'm here are you still there?" he asked panicked his heart sank when he didn't get a response.
Bella was shocked to hear her father's voice on the line. She had been postponing this call all day with half hearted excuses, honestly she was scared to talk to him. She knew she hurt him and she also knew she was about to hurt him again. It was bittersweet when the answering machine picked up. Part of her thought she got lucky and could postpone the painful call for another day, she knew that was the cowardly but it was the truth. On the other hand she was disappointed she would get to talk to him, she really missed her dad even though she hadn't lived with him very long and most of her time was spent following Edward around like a puppy she loved her father more than she would ever be able to love her mother. When she heard his frantic voice on the other end of the line she was speechless.
"Yeah dad I'm still here." she finally managed.
"Oh thank god! Bella I've been so worried are you okay? Where are you?'
"I'm fine, I'm actually overseas at the moment."
"Overseas? How is that even possible? What the hell is going on?"
"I uh joined the Peace Corps. I'm at the airport in London. I'm taking a plane to India in a little bit."
"London! India! What do you mean you're going to India? You haven't even graduated high school yet! How did you even get to London?"
"I have a passport from when mom thought we were going to go to Mexico. The plane ticket came in the mail a month ago." Bella answered. She was really glad Drustan helped her nail down her story this afternoon.
"A month ago? You mean to tell me that you've been planning this for over a month?!" Charlie roared.
Bella flinched at his tone she knew that she had to lie to Charlie to keep him in her life but she didn't like it. Drustan squeezed her hand and both Harrison and Old Quil gave her reassuring smiles. They all knew how hard this was for her. She heard the sounds of Charlie crying and tears of her own fell down her face.
"Why Bella? What did I do wrong that made you want to leave? Tell me and I'll fix it. I'll stay home more, we can do more things together. I'll be a better dad I promise just please, please come home. I'll have a plane ticket for you with in the hour. I just got you back Bells don't leave me. Just please come home." he pleaded.
Bella had never heard Charlie cry and she hoped to never hear it again let alone witness it. Tears fell harder at her father's pleas. She hated herself for doing this to him but she couldn't tell him what he wanted to hear.
"Oh Dad, it's not your fault." she sobbed.
"I applied last year after Phoenix, Edward was getting to controlling it was really scaring me. They said if I could maintain a 4.0 for the first half of senior year they would take me on a scholarship program. I'm getting my diploma next month and will be earning college credits from the professors in the field. After Edward left I forgot all about it until the acceptance packet came in the mail. I didn't know how to tell you and I was afraid you wouldn't let me go. I have to do this Dad. I've got to figure out who the real Bella is."
Charlie's mind was still trying to wrap itself around everything she had just told him.
"Cullen that bastard! What did he do to you?" You should have come to me Bells I am the chief of police, I could have helped you. Why isn't any of your stuff gone? Are you with them? Did they make you leave?" he demanded.
Bella had forgotten how good of a cop Charlie was. He probably wasted no time tearing her room apart looking for anything that would tell him what happened.
"The Corps. provides everything for me since I'm still a student and not a full volunteer. I called a cab to take me to the airport that's why my truck is still there." she added knowing transportation would be his next question.
"And as far as the the Cullens go if I never see them again it will be too soon. I'm so sorry dad I really am."
Charlie's breath hitched, he knew he wouldn't be able to talk her out of leaving. Once Bella decided something she stuck to it she was just like him in that way. Plus she was eighteen and he had no legal right to force her home.
"So I there's no way I can change your mind?" he knew the answer but it wouldn't hurt to try.
"No dad I have to do this."
"What about Jake? You just left him too, is there anything you want me to tell him?"
"Tell him...tell him I love him and I'm sorry. Tell him I just want him to be happy." she choked. Talking to Charlie was hard enough but adding Jacob into the mix was more than she could take.
"My flight leaves in ten minutes I've got to go dad."
"I want you to call me whenever you get the chance even if it's only for a minute. I need to know that you're okay. I love you more than anything baby girl. I'll be here waiting for you to come home."
"I love you too dad more than you'll ever know. Bye Dad."
"Bye Bells." he whispered.
Charlie heard the click that meant Bella had ended the call but he just stood frozen in place with the receiver still to his ear. The loud beeps made him realize he still hadn't moved and he slowly hung up the phone and slid to the kitchen floor.
The already leaking dam burst open and he cried for hours. Part of Charlie thought the tears wouldn't stop until his little girl was back home.
Two hours after Bella called Charlie I found myself making my own uncomfortable phone call. I knew Billy was going to be pissed that I left (especially without telling anyone) but that was just too damn bad.
Billy picked up on the third ring and he sounded exhausted.
"Hello."
"Billy it's Quil."
"Quil? Where the hell have you been old man? Where do you get off taking a vacation at a time like this!" he screamed.
Oh yeah Billy was pissed. I was glad he wasn't in front of me or I'd probably have to run. Billy may be in a wheelchair but the left him at a perfect height to hit a man where it really hurts, and he wasn't afraid to resort to that tactic when he felt it was justified.
"First off who are you calling old? I'm only ten years older than you. As to why I left and where I am it's all part of the bigger picture and I can't tell you."
"Bigger picture? You take off when the pack needs us the most and the only excuse you can come up with is that it's part of the bigger picture? As your chief i demand that you tell me what's going on right now!"
Here we go.
I knew he was going to try and pull the chief card.
"Listen Billy I'm the tribe shaman which means sometimes I am granted knowledge and it is up to me to decide how to best use that information for the good of the tribe. I would never keep anything from you that would put the tribe in harms way. Trust me when I say that this would just make everything worse. You will find out but not until the time is right."
Silence. That shut him up.
"What about your son has he come back home?" I asked
The dejected sigh was answer enough but Billy spoke anyway.
"No, he's still too far out for the pack to hear him. Embry offered to run into to Canada to see if he could track him down but Sam told him no. It's be like looking for a needle in a haystack. Plus Jake is smart we won't hear from him until he's ready. Bella really hurt him."
My back stiffened at his mention of Bella. Billy didn't say anything negative about her and I knew what everyone back home thought, hell I thought it until I got the call from Harrison. Bella had always been special to me and now I was even more protective of her than ever. Altropos was right I love that girl like my own flesh and blood. She already had Charlie and Harrison to fill the role of father so if grandfather was what I got I'd gladly take it.
"Speaking of, any word on where Bella is?"
"As of this morning Charlie still hadn't heard anything."
I was a little surprised Charlie hadn't called Billy and told him he spoke to Bella but I guess he was still processing everything.
"I called a council meeting for when you get back. I want to tell Charlie the truth about the pack and Cullens."
"What!" I sputtered surely he must be joking.
"You can't do that you know the rules. No one outside of the tribe can know the truth."
"Screw the rules! That's my best friend and his daughter is god knows where with a bunch of filthy leeches. He deserves to know."
This was bad, I couldn't let Billy tell Charlie about the Cullens. He may have believed Bella now about the Peace Corps but if he knew what the Cullens were he'd see right through her lie. I knew arguing with Billy over the phone would just cause him to call the meeting early and convince the council to allow Charlie to hear the legends. I had to play this just right so I could stop this before he ruined everything.
The rest of the conversation went by in a blur after Billy agreed to postpone the meeting until tomorrow afternoon. After hanging up I informed everyone of the latest developments and everyone agreed that it would be best for me to head back to La Push and handle things there. Which was why I was standing on the front porch with my duffel bag and a sad Bella Swan.
"You can't let Billy tell Charlie it's too dangerous for him he'll only try to tack down the Cullens. Edward told me about these royal vampires that kill any human that knows vampires exist."
"The Volturi. Harrison has had a few run ins with them, nasty little bastards."
"That's not a very grandfatherly way of talking. I thought grandfathers were supposed to be sweet and give out those nasty hard candies nobody likes." she smirked.
"Think of me as one of the grumpy grandfathers that are too old to change their bad behavior, cuss like sailors, and give out hugs to his favorites instead of candy." I said opening my arms to her. Bella stepped into my arms and I gave her my offered hug.
"I know you have to go but I don't want you too. I'm going to miss you. I like Harrison and Drustan but I've know you my whole life I feel better when you're around." she sniffed into my chest.
"I promise I will take care of everything back home and be on the first flight back here."
She smiled and for a brief moment I saw the happy little girl who played in mud puddles with Jacob.
"Do you know why I started calling you Little Light?"
"No I just always remember you calling me that."
"It's because you always brought the light with you wherever you went. You could walk into a room and put a smile on everyone's face. you've always had the gift of light Bella, now you'll just be spreading it all over the world. I'm so proud of you loca."
I gave her another hug as the cab pulled up the long drive. She turned to me with sad eyes.
"Work hard and trust them. I'll be back as soon as I can."
"Promise?" she asked.
"I promise. Bye Bella." I said giving her one last squeeze.
"Hurry back...grandpa."
I climbed into the back of the cab and wiped away the stray tears from my cheeks. I prayed to the spirits to make my trip home a short one. Bella needed all the love and support she could get right now and I planned to be there for her come hell or high water.
A/N: Thank you everyone who clicked follow and favorite! I already have to next two chapters written and will be typing them later this week so bare with me! I know there hasn't been a lot of Jacob so far but that is all about to change! Please review!