A/N - Hi everyone! I am so so so so sorry for the disgustingly long wait for this update. There were a lot of changes going on in my personal life and I honestly just didn't have the time to type anything up not to mention my laptop broke. There was actually more to this chapter but I stopped a little over 10,000 words so I could upload this today for you all In my long hiatus I did continue to write so I have a lot of the story done just not typed and I promise I will not make you wait very long for more. I hope you all enjoy this chapter!
I opened my eyes and stretched my arms above my head. It was still early the sun hadn't even started to rise but I'd bet my left arm Bella was already up meditating. I was surprised when I called Harrison to ask him to come to La Push to be told Bella was already on her way here for the wedding.
I'd barely made it off my front steps when I heard Charlie and Sue yelling. Those two were so head over heels for each other they spent their days walking on nine, so hearing their raised voices caught my attention. I could only assume that one of the pack must have been giving Bella a hard time and headed in the direction of the Clearwater house.
As a group we decided long ago that should a situation arise where Bella would need to come home I was to act in different towards her so not to arouse suspicion. Upon hearing Paul call her trash and filth that plan went out the window. My new plan was to rip the throat out of the next person stupid enough to insult her. I knew I wouldn't be able to take on the whole back so I'd just have to settle for rocking the boat and rescuing Bella in one swoop.
I turned the corner just as Bella grabbed Charlies' arm stopping him from punching Paul. As much as I'd love to see to see the police chief rearrange that assholes face Bella was right to stop him, Paul was a loose cannon god only knows what could have happened. I was both surprised and proud of Charlies' admision that he and Bella were a package deal. That man was a father through and through. I knew Bella would be surprised at my offer for her to stay with me but was happy she accepted so quickly. I knew she would have slept in a dumpster before she let Charlie cancel his wedding.
I was still fuming from the remarks from Leah and Paul and knew the upcoming council meeting would only increase my ire at the pair. Thinking of the Council meeting reminded me that Bella and I still needed to come up with a basic plan of action because when she walks threw those doors it's going to be chaos.
After about fifteen minutes of trying to find an excuse to stay in bed I reluctantly made my way into the kitchen.
"Good morning Grandpa take a seat breakfast is almost done." Bella called over her shoulder.
"Maybe waking up wasn't such a bad idea after all if it entails your cooking."
Bella smiled at the compliment as she set his plate in front of him. She was a bundle of nerves this morning and decided to busyness self making breakfast. Sitting across from Old Quill she took a bite.
Not bad.
"We need to make a plan for today I want to avoid as many problems as possible." she said taking a sip of orange juice
"I was thinking the you could wait outside of the Council building until I call you in. If anyone sees you in there before the meeting starts they will demand that you leave causing us to explain why you are there and giving away our shock factor."
"Good idea where do you want me to enter?"
"The double doors but remember how you walk in is very important. Keep your head up. When you walk threw the door all of the personal issues disappear, when you walk threw the door walk in as a Warrior of Light ready to kick some demonic ass. They're going to throw a fit so make them pay attention."
Bella nodded her agreement, from the moment the doors open she would be a warrior on a mission. Saving lives and vanquishing darkness would be her main two priorities.
"You were right last night they're going to want a full back story and I want Drustan and Harrison there for that so we'll just stick to the basic information. Before you call me in give a little history on the Warriors and explain what we do. Keep it short you know how Harrison loves telling the old stories."
Old Quil smiled Harrison liked telling the histories of the Fallen warriors as much as Billy liked telling the old ledgends.
"I really don't want to hear him whine so I'll keep it simple. I'll leave the wendigo for you to explain, then we hunt. "
"When do you plan on calling the meeting?"
"Be outside of the Council building at 9:15 and make sure to stay out of sight."
"Got it." Bella said gathering up the dishes so she could wash them.
She loved Old Quil but he was a pig. She still had a few hours before the Council meeting and she was going to make this house habitable if it killed her.
I sat down in my favorite recliner and dialed the number of the only pack member I knew wouldn't bombard me with a million questions about Bella.
"Hello."
"Sam it's Quil I have news. I need to call a council meeting for 9:00. Jacob is on patrol so I need you to pass the message around. The entire pack needs to be there."
"I don't know. Jake will want at least two wolves on patrol."
That wouldn't be necessary Bella would be able to feel if there was any demon activity in the area but I couldn't explain that to him at the moment.
"Trust me I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important, I need the entire pack there."
Sam was quite for a moment and I began to worry that today's difficulties were going to start before I even got to the meeting. Thankfully those worries were short lived.
"Fine I'll talk to Jake well all be there at nine. Do you want me to call the other council members?" he asked.
Sam was a good kid. I knew he was giving me an out of having to call the other members and be hounded for information on Bella and the meeting.
"That'd be a big help. Thanks Sam."
"No problem see you later."
I placed the phone back in the cradle and laid back in my chair. I looked at the clock 7:50, I still had time for a quick nap.
"Gross! Grandpa did you know you there's a moldy sandwich in your bathroom?" Bella called from down the hall.
Looked like I wasn't getting a nap after all.
At exactly 9:00 everyone started shuffling into the tribal council building. The one room building wasn't very large and over a hundred years old. Long wooden benches were divided by a two foot Isle way down the middle of the room. The pack took their seats on the benches while the tribal elders sat in fold out chairs on a raised platform.
The chairs were placed in a semi circle with Jacob seated in the middle. Billy sat directly to his right followed by Sue Clearwater. On Jacobs left was my empty seat followed by Jonathan Uley Sams grandfather and royal pain in my ass. Once everyone was situated I cleared my throat and began.
"Two days ago our chief and alpha gave me permission to request assistance from my friends regarding the discovery of demons in the area. I have contacted them and they have agreed to come and help in anyway possible. I think it would be best if I explain who they are and what they do. As spirit warriors we have always protected our tribe from the cold ones. Unfortunately, vampires are just the tip of the iceberg. Thousands of years ago evil and monsters over took the earth and pushed humanity to the brink of extinction. The Moiria or Sisters of Fate chose three champions to fight the darkness and restore light to the world. These warriors are known as Bellatores De Lumine or Warriors of Light. They have been blessed with extraordinary powers by the Moiria and travel around the world vanquishing darkness from the earth."
I paused and waited for the inevitable questions. Seth spoke first.
"So how old are these warriors?"
I smiled at Seth's curiosity. He was the youngest member of the back to phase and even though he was now twenty he managed to keep his childlike innocence.
"The oldest is 566 while the other two are significantly younger. When a Warrior of Light is killed his/her sister will choose anothen worthy soul to become their champion."
I heard Paul snicker. I was right my annoyance level was reaching it's limit with him.
"Something funny Paul?" I asked sharply.
"Yeah, am I the only one having trouble believing this whole Sisters of Fate bullshit? "
Not only is he an asshole he's an idiot too. Sisters give me strength.
"May I remind you that all of you thought our own legends were "bullshit" as you so eloquent lyrics phrased it Paul until you sprouted four legs, fur, and a tail."
I allowed myself a look of disgust before continuing, making sure to meet the eyes of the entire pack.
"Have no doubt the Moiria are real and their champions are more powerful than you could even imagine."
"Do you know when they will arrive?" Sam asked.
Here comes the fun part.
I sent a quick prayer to the Sisters and the Great Spirits to help keep this meeting from getting out of hand.
"Actually, one of them arrived yesterday."
I had to fight a smile as everyone looked around the room looking for the warrior.
"Well that figures one of these warriors arrive and I have to see that pale faced bitch instead." grumbled Leah from her seat crossing her arms in an annoyance.
I almost laughed at the irony of her statement but instead I raised my voice for dramatic effect.
"Champion of Altropos Eldest Sister of Fate, Warrior of Light, Defender of Humanity, and Vanquisher of Evil would you please join us!"
The double doors burst open and the room flooded with light.
Showtime.
If six years ago someone would have told me I would be more nervous about being in a room with Jacob Black than fighting a horde of demons I would have laughed In their face and rushed them to the nearest mental hospital. Well it looked like the joke was on me.
Touché Fate.
My palms were sweaty, I was pacing more than Drustan, and I had the sudden urge to bite my nails.
Get it together Swan!
I needed to have a talk with Drustan this whole situation had Clothos written all over it. She was probably watching me right now enjoying all good laugh at my expense.
9:10 almost time. One of the many perks was having an amazing internal clock. Our bodies are the most accurate sense of time on the planet. Meaning I was never late unless I was trying to annoy Harrison. It's one of the many ways Drustan and I liked to drive him crazy.
Time to change, it wouldn't do for me to walk in wearing my old jeans and flannel shirt. After stripping down I took a deep breath and reached for my light, the source of my powers. I tapped into that power and called forth my armor and weapons. The green light that was my aura enveloped me and I felt my armor surround my body. Once the light disappeared I stood outside the Council building fit for battle.
I remembered the day Drustan showed me how to do that. I thought he was just being a pervert when he told me to take off my clothes. I once asked Altropos how our armor and weapons were able to appear and dissappear at will. She explained that it was very similar to how the wolves phase. They have two forms their human and their wolf that waits inside just under the skin. We as Warriors of Light have our human forms and our Warrior form. Just like the wolves once we trigger the change its instantaneous, we also have to remove our clothes beforehand so they're not distroyed.
Each warrior's armor is unique to their skills and needs. I was terrified that my armor would make me look like some slutty super hero from a comic book but thankfully that was not the case. My armor consisted of a skin tight black bodysuit that laid under a chest piece, arm guards, shoulder guards, and boots that were identical to Altropos's down to the last silver and gold swirl. Luckily because of the body suit I didn't have to wear the skirt. My weapons also mirrored the eldest Moiria. I had two long swords forming an X across my back, four daggers hung from a belt along my waist two on each hip. After seeing me for the first time Old Quil informed me that I looked like a bad ass and I had to agree.
"Champion of Al troops eldest Sister of Fate, Warrior of Light, Defender of Humanity, and Vanquisher of Evil would you please join us!"
I heard Old Quil shout from inside the building and rolled my eyes at his pompous words. Standing tall I took a deep breath.
I am a Warrior of Light I fear no one.
With a small push from my power the doors swung open and I flooded the room with Light.
With my head held high I walked into the wolf den.
I felt my power dancing just under my skin. I was walking into a room filled with eight shifters that hated the sight of me. I wasn't looking for a fight but part of me was expecting one.
I kept my eyes focused on Old Quil as I made my way down the isle. I needed to be Bella Warrior of Light not Bella the weak girl from Forks. My heart started to pound when I felt Jacob this was the closest I'd been to him in six years. I wanted to run to him and tell him the truth about the Cullens, to tell him how much I loved and missed but I couldn't.
No one moved as I continued my way to the platform, I felt eleven set of eyes boring into me. I was thankful Old Quil never broke eye contact silently lending me his support and strength. The spell of silence was broken when I came to stand beside my adoptive grandfather and turned to face the pack. The only small blessing was now my back was towards Jacob and I wouldn't have to face him just yet. Chaos erupted as everyone began shouting a once.
"What the hell?"
"Is this some kind of joke?"
"Get her out of here! "
"Dirty leech lover! "
I ignored the raucous around me and turned to Old Quil.
"That was some introduction, don't you think you were laying it on pretty thick?"
"You have to admit it may have been flashy but it got a reaction. You should have seen their faces they didn't know what to expect. You could have made a bigger entrance you know...One of the most powerful beings on the planet and all I get is a little light." he mumbled reminding me of a toddler who was told they couldn't have any candy. I barely surpressed the urge to roll my eyes.
"You know sometimes you're as bad as Drustan."
His only response was a grunt before Paul's lovely mouth pulled us back into the verbal fray.
"I told you this was all a big joke. Warrior of Light my ass, Bella Swan is nothing more than a vampire booty call. What's wrong your bloodsucker get tired of you,"
I felt my anger rise to the surface and clenched my jaw in a weak attempt to control my temper, now was not the time to get angry.
"Bet your Daddy wouldn't be too happy to know his daughter spreads her legs for a corpse. Do you let all of the leeches take a ride or just Eddie boy?" he sneered.
Fuck this.
I heard Old Quil growl at my side as I pushed my light into the ground. I allowed it to expand out to the edge of the building but no further. The earth began to vibrate in time with my racing pulse, dust rained down from the rafters as the wood creaked and groaned under the pressure. The wolves that were standing lost their balance and fell to the floor. A jolt of satisfaction shot threw me when I saw Paul trip over a bench and end up sprawled out on the concrete floor. My hunter green aura surrounded me as my earthquake reached aura level five.
"Enough!" I shouted power lacing my voice.
The ground shook once more before I released my hold. My aura dimmed slightly but hugged my body still clearly visible.
Good let them see.
"This is no joke. I am the third Warrior of Light. You don't like me? Tough shit. You don't have to like me but if you want to survive and have a chance at protecting your tribe you will listen to me. What you encountered was a Wendigo. They are demons who feed feed off human flesh and fear. They will consume anyone in their path. Their hunger is never sated. They do not rest, They don't not sleep, all they do is hunt, kill, and devour. They're strong and incredibly fast. I've fought and killed their kind before they won't be easy for you to take down. My fellow warriors will arrive by next week I think it would be best if we waited for them to begin your training since I don't trust myself not to loose my temper. I wouldn't want to accidentally hurt one of you if things got out of hand." I shot Leah and Paul a meaningful glare leaving no doubt who I was inferring.
"Now if you'll excuse us Old Quil and I have some hunting to do."
With out a backward glance Old Quil and I left behind a speechless wolf pack.
Trees flew by as Bella ran threw the forest. She'do been playing human for nine days and was itching to let loose and stretch her legs. This was nothing like riding piggyback with Edward it was her feet grazing the ground as the wind caressed her face. She was in control now.
A white blur flew past her on her right side.
"You want to race old man bring it on!" she called before putting on a burst of speed.
[Oh it's on!]
Old Quil knew he was no match for Bella in speed alone, he'd have to give himself a slight edge. He pushed himself faster until he was right behind Bella, moving to the right he came up along side her. He knew she would pull ahead any moment, now was his chance. He threw all of his weight in her direction hoping to throw her ofd balance. Before he could even touch her Bella flipped over his body landing on her feet behind him. He felt something wrap around his one leg and he knew he was in trouble. The next thing he knew he was hanging upside down by a vine.
"That's what you get for trying to cheat." Bella teased walking towards him.
"Don't make me hit you over the nose." she scolded with her hands on her hips.
Old Quil growled.
[You wouldn't dare.]
Bella raised and eyebrow "Are you sure about that?"
Old Quil whined this was so humiliating at least Harrison and Drustan weren't here to see this, they'd never let him hear the end of this.
[Okay. Okay you made your point now put me down.]
Bella lowered the vine until Old Quil was back on all four paws before releaseIng her hold. The vine snaked it way back to its original place high in a tree.
[Isn't anyone afraid of the big bad wolf anymore?]
"Everyone knows you're a big softy." she laughed as she ran her hands threw her snow White fur.
Without any warning Old Quil licked Bella's face causing her to jump away from him.
"Eww! You know how much I hate that!" she cried trying to wipe the drool on her sleeve but her arms guards weren't very absorbent so most of it remained.
[Okay play times over we've got work to do.]
He butted Bella in the back with his head to turn her in the right direction. It didn't take long for the pair to follow the trace and scent left behind by the wendigo, what was disturbing was were it led. It seemed that the creature doubled back and followed them to where their scent was the heaviest. LaPush.
[Do you think it will be back?] Old Quil asked grateful for the arrival of Bella's arrival in Las Push. It looked like the pack might not have a few days before they had their second demon encounter.
"I don't know it hasn't pushed past the treaty line yet. I can only assume that it's intimidated by the strength of the scent. It'd be safer for everyone if the wolves continued to run in pairs but if they happen upon it they need to run. It would tear them apart before they even knew what was hapoening."
Bella was nervous about the safety of the pack, she knew that none of them would willingly accept her help. Jacob would probably have to alpha order then to cooperate (if he still agreed to let the Warriors help) but without her they were dead.
Even though wendigos were a minor demon they were deadly. Wendigos were once humans greedy and selfish humans who were lured to the darkness by promises of power. The darkness always fulfills its promises but never in the way a person expects. In the case of the Wendigos they became extremely physically powerful and fast but their greed became intensified. They will walk the earth for eternity never satisfied always wanting an needing more, and what they want is human flesh. The reason being before being granted the promised power a person would have to kill and consume another human being. Wendigos are part of the reason the Algonquin people always had such a high taboo on cannibalism.
For a Warrior of Light a wendigo wouldn't be much of a problem but for a member of the pack it would be deadly. Wendigos are part canine and would easily over power a regular attack from the wolves, which was why they needed training from the Warriors.
[I'm going to have to talk to Jacob. I don't think we can wait for Harrison to begin their training.]
"You're right I'll just have to try not to bury Paul under a rock slide." she said half joking.
"Speaking of Jacob now that they know my dirty little secret when are you going to tell them yours?"
Old Quil gave the wolf equivalent of a sigh and leaned his shoulder Into Bella and she began scratching above his shoulder blade.
[Now is not the time they're still reeling over your new identity. We don't want to push them too much.]
"I know you're worried but Harrison, Drustan, and I will be there for you. I agree maybe you shouldn't tell them today and maybe not tomorrow but soon. They've been kept in the dark about to much Grandpa."
Old Quil knew she was right. He hated having to hide his true for all these years but revealing it would have meant revealing the Warriors and they were his pack he'd never do that but now that the truth was out in the open there was nothing stopping Old Quil from being himself but...fear. La Push was his home he loved his tribe but yesterday he Bella arrival and treatment had put a lot of things in perspective for him. Bella, Harrison, and Drustan were his pack, his true home was where ever they were.
[Your right after the others get here I'll tell them.]
Bella knew Old Quil was nervous of the reaction of the Law Push pack. She knew what it felt like to be unwanted and Old Quil was always there to reassure her that she was very wanted by those that matter the most. Now it was her turn to do the same for him. Stepping in front of the large beautiful snow White wolf she reached her arms up and hugged as much of him as she possibly could (which wasn't much).
"I'll be right beside you when you do." she said into his soft fur.
Old Quil lowered his head leaning it over her shoulder cradling his beloved granddaughter against his chest. He was over come with love and devotion towards her.
[I know Little Light and I'll always be beside you."]
They'd been gone for hours where we're they? Did they think they could just drop that bombshell on everyone and just dissappear after those half assed explanations? My wolf was angry, angry at being made a fool again by Bella Swan. I paced back in forth in front of Old Quil's house trying to calm my wolf .
How long had Old Quil known about Bella? Didn't he think I deserved some kind of warning?
"Hey Jake just so you know the love of your life and the girl that ripped her heart into a million pieces is coming to La Push and now she's a demon hunter."
Anything would have been better than leaving him completely unprepared. I had been useless at the Council meeting from the moment she walked threw the doors all I could do was sit there with a dumb looK on my face, and to top it off she didn't even acknowledge my existence! I was chief and Alpha but I didn't even get as much of a glance in my direction. I probably would have made a complete fool of myself if she had spoken to me but she didn't know that.
I took a seat on Old Quil ' s front step. Where are they? Did they go? Did that monster find them? Well I'm just going to have to sit here until they get back. Not because the very idea of Bella being in danger scares me beyond belief but because there are a lot of questions that still needed answered. Yeah that's the reason.
A light breeze blew across my face bringing with it the scent of the forest after a light rain mixed with vanilla a scent that was distinctly Bella.
I saw her and Old Quil emerge from the woods on the other side of the house. God she was beautiful. Just like in the council meeting her beauty took my breath away, she had changed but she was still undeniably my Bella. She stood taller some it it had to do with the four or five inches she grew but most of it was the confidence that poured off of her. Her facial features were more defined her large green eyes were still able to pull me into their emerald depths. Her hair was longer now, it fell in thick waves to the middle of her back. The Wolf in me cried out to bury my nose in it and loose myself in her scent. Her body had changed as well, gono was the thin emaciated figure. Now her body was lean and strong. Gone was the weak timid girl left behind by the leech; here in her place was a strong, confident woman capable of making her own decisions, and I wasn't one of them. Just like that my anger was back in full force.
Bella and Old Quil walked towards the house neither looked surprised to see me.
"Jacob what can I do for you?" Old Quil asked.
His question only managed to infuriate me even more. What could he do for me? How about giving me some god damned answers.
Ignoring him I stared directly at Bella. Nothing. A part of me deep down was still hoping that I would imprint on her.
"We need to talk...alone." I ground out.
At least she had the decency to look nervous. Old Quil however obviously couldn't take a hint because he grabbed onto Bella's elbow and glared at me. He was really starting to get on my nerves. The old man turned and looked at Bella it was obvious that he didn't want to leave her alone with me. Like I was the bad guy in this twisted fairy tale.
"It's fine go." she told him.
He stood clutching her arm for a few more moments before turning all of his attention to me.
"I will be right inside that door you have ten minutes before I come back outside." he declared before stomping up the steps and slamming the door.
I watched as Bella fidgeted obviously uncomfortable. Good let her be it the least she deserves after everything she put me threw. She took a deep breath then sat down next to me on the step. She was so close. My wolf howled in delight and my body screamed to crush her against me and never let her go. No. That could never happen I would not fall victim to her again.
"There's so much I want to say to you, so much that I want to explain."
I shot to my feet. I couldn't do this. I couldn't be this close to her it was to hard.
"I didn't come here to listen to your fake apologies and half assed excuses. I came here for information regarding the demon. I have no interest in anything else." I snapped.
I saw the look of hurt pass over her face, part of me enjoyed that I could give her a taste of what I felt but the majority of me hated myself for putting it there.
"I tracked it by demonic energy to where it evaded you. After you all left it back tracked and followed your scents to the treaty line. I think it sees your pack as a new treat. It would be best if everyone patrolled I groups of two or three but if you happen to come to come across to come across it you need to run and tell me so I can handle it. Tomorrow Old Quil and I plan on hunting it down and taking it out before it can do anymore harm."
"Are you crazy? You think this thing is so dangerous that my pack needs to be in grpups of three but you want to take a fifty something old man into the woods with you to b kill it.?"
She laughed. Here I am worried about her safety (as always) and what does she do, laugh in my face. I missed that laugh.
What? No. Get it together Black.
"Trust me you don't have to worry about Old Quil he's a lot tougher than he looks and is far from defenseless. "
"Apparently there's a lot about Old Quil we don't know." no one would have missed how bitter I sounded.
Bella paled and looked to the house.
"Jake.." she stood and reached out to touch me.
I pulled my arms out of reach and stumbled back a few steps. I couldn't let her touch me. I was barley containing containing the urge to wrap my arms around her if she touches me I'm done for. How is she doing this? Six years I've been convincing myself I hate her and two minutes of being alone with her and I'm wanting to throw myself at her feet.
No.
I wI'll not do this again I'm stronger now. I am Alpha.
"Do what you have to but I expect to be informed of any new information regarding the demon. I want you to know that you are the last person I want to be working with. Do not approach me unless it directly involves the safety of La Push. Good night Isabela."
I turned and headed towards the woods I needed to phase now.
"Jake please!" I heard her cry, her voice sounded so broken and desperate. I wanted to turn around and run to her to tell her everything would be okay but I wouldnt. That was the old me, so instead I ran and phased as soon as I hit the tree line, running Into the night leaving what was left of my mangled heart with her.
As soon as Old Quil heard Jacob leave he was out the door and on his way to Bella. He caught her in his arms as she collapsed to the ground sobbing. He heard the entire conversation with Jacob. He wanted to chase after him and tear a strip off his hide for treating his granddaughter that way but Bella needed him here with her so that's where he'd stay. He'd have plenty of time to deal with Jacob Black later.
He pulled her to his chest and rocked back and forth running his hand over her hair.
"Shhh. I'm here. Everything is going to be okay."
"No, nothing will ever be okay. He hates me grandpa. He hates me and it hurts so fucking bad." she said sobbed and Old Quil just held her tighter.
"I know it hurts but I'm here. I've got you, you're not alone Little Light. I'm here."
"Why? Why did it have to be like this? I'm proud of what I am and what I do. Altropos chose me out of every soul to save people from demons and darkness and my only regret is that to do that I had to hurt the two people I loved the most, Jacob and Charlie. I'm not good enough for them, they both deserve so much better than me."
"That's not true! " he said forcefully. "There is no one better than you. Don't you worry about Jacob he'll come around."
He didn't know how long they sat there, him holding her and silently rocking her, her crying her heart out. It could have been minutes or it could have been hours but eventually she began to calm down.
"Do you really think he'll come around?" she sniffed.
"If he doesn't then he doesn't deserve you." he said wiping tears off of her cheeks.
"Come on let's go inside we wouldn't want any wandering wolves to see you this way."
Quil V and Embry watched from the edge of the trees as Old Quil helped Bella to her feet and guided her inside kicking the door shut with his foot. Both had witnessed the conversation between Jake and Bella and Old Quil comforting as she broke down. They were extremely confused by her reaction. Why was she so upset? She's the one who left? Both wolves realized there was more this story than they were being told and they decided right then that they were going to get to the bottom of it.
Embry and Quil were running patrol in Forks near Charlie Swans house, even after Bella left town vampires still seemed drawn there. Causing a running joke through the pack about all of the Swans being cursed with bad luck concerning the supernatural. Paul had made the mistake of of sharing his theory that vampires were drawn to the Swan house because Bella was destined to become one herself through the pack mind. Unfortunately for him Jake phased at that exact moment and was furious. Paul ended up limping home from patrol that day wishing he had kept his thoughts to himself.
[So what's going on with your grandfather and Bella?]
Embry asked images of Old Quil defending Bella when she first arrived, calling her granddaughter, introducing her in the Council meeting, and finally rocking her as she broke down. Quil was just as confused as Embry his grandfather was acting so out of character, he never treated anyone the way he treated Bella.
[ I have absolutely no idea but he's obviously known about Bella being one of those Warriors for awhile.]
[Do you think that's where he's disappearing to?]
[Probably he must have been in contact with her and they're obviously very close. I've never seen him act that way towards anyone before.]
[That breakdown was brutal. I haven't seen anyone that upset since Jake.]
Both wolves relived that terrible night in their minds.
[There were a lot of similarities between the two she practically echoed his words from that night. What do you think she meant to be a warrior she had to hurt Charlie and Jake? I mean she hurt Jake the night she picked that filthy leech over him.]
Quil was getting mad just thinking about the way Bella threw his friend aside as if he were nothing. They had reached the end of their patrol route and turned to head back towards La Push.
[I have no idea but I intend to find out.]
Embry said putting his nose to the ground. After a few minutes of silence he started to smell something odd.
[Is that sulfur? Oh shit!]
Just then a large gray figure slammed into his side sending both him and Quil into a jumbled heap ten feet away. The Wendigo had found them.
Bella woke from her nightmare with a start clutching her chest. It was the same nightmare she'd been having for years. A man with alabaster skin alabaster black eyes killed everyone she loves before she gives in and the darkness takes her claiming her as its own.
It's time like this when she realizes how much she misses Drustan and Harrison. Every other night when she'd wake up screaming Drustan would wrap his arms around her assuring her that she would never be alone and they would never let the darkness take her. His whispered promises would calm her then Harrison would tell her stories about all of the amazing people he'd met in his long life, and the epic tales of the Warriors that came before them until she drifted back to sleep. Now they were here to comfort her, they were thousands of miles away.
She heard her phone vibrate against the wood of the nightstand next to her bed. With a frustrated groan she rolled over and opened the awaiting text message.
I just had this strange feeling that you needed me. Always remember Angel, I'm right here even when it seems I'm so far out reach. I'm never far away, don't have to be afraid, look up I'll always be watching over you.
Stay strong. I'll be there soon.
Your soul twin,
Drustan
I smiled thinking back to when those lyrics turned the worst day of my life into one of the best. We were We were in South America tracking down a high level demon that was known to peel the skin of its victims while they were still alive before sacking out their souls. We came to a small village on the coast where everyone had been brutally slaughtered. We heard a child screaming somewhere down the beach. We found the demon just as it was sucking the soul from as little girl no older than five.
Harrison and Drustan made a quick of killing the demon while I cradled the dying girl in my lap. All of her skin had been peeled off leaving nothing but exposed muscle and bone, the pain must have drove her into her own mind in an extreme state of shock. I tried to heal her with my light but the demons nails were dipped in he'll fire the only substance we are helpless against. With no other option I helped the girls soul travel to its rightful resting place, whispering words of comfort as she passed from this world.
Drustan tried to help me bury the little girl but I refused. I had to be the one to do it and I had to do not alone. After lighting her funeral pyre I wandered down the bank covered In gore in search of the one place I could feel closer to my sun, who I desperately needed on the darkest night I'd ever known.
I stumbled through the night until I came to a large piece of dirt wood near the waters edge. I collapsed on the sand with my back against the wood and brokedown. I cried for the little girl who died in such a horrific way, I cried for the rest of the villagers who met the same fate, I cried for the fact that we killed the demon responsible for tonight's atrocities and yet across the globe countless victims were facing similar fates at the hands of demons and monsters of darkness.
We were only three. Three warriors to fight the armies of hell. No matter how many evils we killed there would always be another waiting In line to continue its work. How could three people no matter how powerful hope to make a difference against those odds?
I sat there crying and cursing the darkness and at some point in time Drustan came and sat down beside me. He didn't speak or whisper soothing words, he just sat next to me with his hand on my shoulder sending me his strength through our bond. Much later when the sobs finally subsided he stood and asked me to dance. I tried to refuse but he wore me down until I reluctantly agreed. To this day I still don't know where the music came from but we twirled and spun across the sand as Drustan sang the lyrics softly in my ear.
As the music stopped he whispered in my ear, "I know that this is hard, we see things that would drive others to maddness. It catches up to all of us sometimes but we get threw it by leaning on each other when we need support. We are all in this together good and bad, darkness and light. You don't have to face these horror alone Bella. Every word of that song was true I'll always be watching over you Angel."
That night In saw first hand then destruction caused by darkness, that night I also realized even though we were only three and we were up against unimaginable odds together we would make a difference. Together we were strong enough to bring In the light.
I stood up and with a flash of green light called my armor and weapons. It was only four in the morning but Drustan's text message filled me with strength and energy replacing the disappointment and self pity left from my encounter with Jacob. It wouldn't do any good to lay around and dwell on what might have beens, but there was a demon on the loose and a Warrior of Light with nothing to do. It was time to go hunting. Opening the window I gracefully leapt to the ground opting to avoid the stairs and possibly waking Old Quil. It was still early and he needed his rest.
I was running in the woods following a day old teace. The Wendigo seemed fixated on the reservation pushing closer and closer to the treaty line. I needed to find this thing before it came upon any patrolling wolves. The trace intercepted a fresh trail and I changed directions hoping I wasn't to far behind the creature. Following Following the trail I left the treaty line behind, it seemed to be heading towards Forks. Putting on a burst of speed I raced through the woods hoping to find the creature before it managed to find a new victim. As I ran threw the woods behind my old house the Wendigo trace intercepted and followed the fresh trace of two wolves. Pushing myself into all out sprint I raced to the woods praying to the sisters that I wasn't to late.
Embry lay sprawled out on the forest floor on top of Quil. He felt like he'd been hit by a freight train. As he scrambled to his feet he felt his left back leg give out under his weight.
Definitely broken.
Quil rushed to stand next to his pack brother facing the snarling beast in front of them. It was even more intimidating then the first time he'd seen it. Quil heard Embry whimper as he tried to shift some of his weight on his back foot.
The wendigo launched it's self at the pair and Quil threw himself in front of Embry catching it's right arm in his jaws. He clamped down on the creatures forearms and felt a searing pain across his left side. He whimpered in pain blood from the three gashes soaked his fur. His grip on the wendigo loosened and the demon shook him off flinging him to the ground a few feet away. Embry rushed forward trying to latch on to the Wendigos other arm before it could inflict anymore damage on his friend but the demon was to fast. With a swift kick in the chest Embry smashed into a tree and crumpled to the ground in and broken heap.
The wendigo turned its attention back to the bleeding Quil. His life flashed before his eyes and he heard Embry trying to crawl his way over to his side. Quil screamed out in the pack mind but we only met with Embry's thoughts.
Where the he'll was Paul? Jacob had ordered all patrol shifts to consist of three wolves, two to run survelance over the treaty line and to raise the alarm if the other two met the trouble.
The Wendigos crouched down in front of Quil. His nose burned with the scent of decay, infection, and rotting flesh. The beast's eyes glowed with hunger as drool dripped down it's fangs and off of its distorted muzzle. It leaned it's head over his wounds and inhaled, breathing in the smell of fresh blood. It's head moved closer and it's jaws opened ready to take a bite when a flash of light burst behind it and it screamed In pain.
Bella stood on the opposite side of the field another dagger ready to throw. She needed to draw the Wendigos far enough away from the wounded wolves so she could kill it. The demon screamed as her second dagger found its mark just below the first embedding it's self deep into the creatures back. The Wendigos spun around to face the new threat and with an enraged roar it charged Bella. Sweeping it's razor sharp claws in rapid succession hoping to rip her to shreads. Bella was ready for the impending attack and quickly drew her sword from it scabbard on her back. Lifting it quickly to eye level she blocked the fury of claws aimed at her head. The Wendigo pushed forward relentless in its assault causing Bella to back step or be sliced by its sword like talons. Every backward step she took put more distance between the two wolves (she now identified as Quil and Embry) and the demon. Deciding it was a safe enough distance she went from defensive to offensive, it was time to end this son of a bitch.
Ducking under a low Sipe she turned and dragged her sword across the thigh of the demon cutting threw it's flesh like butter. Using its moment of distraction she turned and ran straight at the nearest tree. The wendigo howled in anger and quickly followed determined not to loose it's prey. Reaching the tree Bella ran halfway up the trunk before kicking off and flipping backwards. With a swing of her sword she sent the head of the creature crashing to the ground before gratefully landing in a crouch.
Quil couldn't believe his eyes. He must be hallucinating due to major blood loss because he just thought he saw Bella back flip off a tree and decapitate the wendigo in midair. The demon instantly disintegrated into ash at her feet and suddenly Bella was kneeling down in front of him. She placed her hands on his bloodied side and a warm heat shaped into his body. Bella began to glow as a green light surrounded her. Her eyes were closed and her hair wiped around her face, blown about in an invisible wind. Quil had never seen anything so beautiful in his entire life. The warmth intensified and he was filled with a rush of pure adreniline.
" There you go , all healed. I have to go to Embry easy getting up you maybe a little sore."
Bella quickly made her way over to Embry thankful that his injuries weren't as as severe as Quilts had been. She pushed her light into his body and mended his broken bones and healed his bruises. Realeasing her light she laid back on the ground soaking in the earth's energy. A few moments later a very worried Quil and Embry stood over her.
"Bella oh my god are you alright?" Embry asked frantically.
Bella reluctantly opened one eye and looked at Jacob's best friends she couldn't help but laugh at their panicked expressions.
"I'm fine. Healing can be draining and Quil was only a minute or so away from death so I had to use a lot of power to heal him." Bella explained sitting up.
She dug her fingers into the dirt and felt a trickle of energy creep into her body.
"Bella thank you so much for everything you did, you saved both of our lives back there." Embry said his voice full of awe.
"No worries boys, that's my job. I'm only sorry I didn't get here sooner I could have saved you both a lot of pain "
Quil was surprised at the way she brushed of her actions. He opened his mouth to tell her how thankful he was when he was interrupted by someone screaming.
"Isabela Marie Swan you are in so much trouble!"
Quil recognized his grandfather's voice and wondered how he could have possibly found them.
"Boys I may you to be my body guards in a few moments because Old Quil is gonna kill me."
Just as the words left her lips a very irate Old Quil burst into the Glen and stormed up to Bella.
"What the hell do you think you're doing sneaking out in the middle of the night to track a demon by your self? Do you have any idea how worried I was to find you gone?" he roared his face blotched with red.
Bella knew that he wasn't really angry at her only worried but it still passed her off.
"I couldn't sleep so I decided to go for a hunt to clear my head. It was still early so I figured I'd let you rest. It's a good thing I Went When I did or these two would be dead right now." she retorted pointing to Quil and Embry.
Old Quil paled and turned towards boys noticing them for the first time, he was so concerned about Bella he didn't realize they were there.
"You two fought the wendigo?"
Both boys looked down sheepishly before Embry spoke up, " Not exactly. It caught us by surprise, we tried to fight it off but it was too strong. If Bella wouldn't of shown up when she did we'd both be dead. "
Old Quil nodded "Well I'm glad your both safe but you-" he said turning to Bella, " should have woken me up. What if you would have been hurt?"
"You know I can handle myself." she snapped again, she was not in the mood to be lectured.
Standing she went to push past Old Quil when he grabbed her arm and gave her a bone crushing hug.
"Don't ever do that again! I know you can handle yourself but that doesn't mean I don't worry. We said we were going tondo this together and then I wake up to find you gone."
Bella felt a little guilty he was right she has said that they were going to hunt this one together. She understood that after her breakdown last night her grandfather would be worried about her and would come to check on her during the nighr. She didn't think of how he would react to dminding her gone. She hugged him letting him feel her remorse.
"I'm sorry grandpa."
Old Quil softened at her words he never could stay mad at her for very long.
"All is forgiven Little Light just don't scare me agian." he said patting her cheek.
"Okay let's start heading back we've got a long walk a head of us." he said turning in the direction of La Push. Bella quickly fell into step beside him as Quil and Embry shared a confused look before jogging to catch up.
The foursome walked in silence for awhile and Embry replayed the last few days events over in his mind. Bella was not what he expected. He knew that no matter what Jake said he was still in love with Bella, a part of Embry thought he always would be. Yes, she had saved his life and he would be forever grateful for that but that didn't mean trusted her not to break his alpha and best friend's heart again.
"Bella can I ask you a question?" he asked.
"Sure go ahead." she responded over her shoulder assuming it would be about her new powers.
"Why were you so upset last night talking to Jacob?"
Old Quil spun around furious. He knew Bella was hurting over Jake's reaction to her and the last thing she needed was someone rubbing it in her face.
"Who do by our think you are spying on her?" he yelled.
Bella placed a hand on his arm and he turned towards her.
"Relax grandpa. It's not like they were lurking under a window I was out in the open. I'm just glad it wasn't Paul or Leah."
"So why we're you so upset? You left him Bella, did you expect hin to welcome you with open arms?" Quil asked.
Old Quil whirled on his grandson, "You have no idea what you're talking about and it's none of your damned business. " he seethed.
Old Quil was furious he could feel himself start to shake. Bella felt the change in him as well and stepped in front of him blocking him from Quil and Embry shared veiw.
"It's fine, they saw and they deserve an explanation."
"Bella you don't have to do this, you don't owe anyone an explanation. You don't owe anyone anything."
Bella smiled at hen adoptive grandfather, he was always looking out for her..
"I know that."
Turning to Quil and Embry her expression serious she said, "What I am about to tell you is in the strictest of confedence. You will have to block this entire conversation from the pack mind. If you can swear to do that I will tell you everything."
Quil and Embry looked at each bother before agreeing to Bella's terms. The foursome once again set out towards La Push while Bella recounted what really happened the night she left. She told them about Alice's vision her and Jasper creating creating a plan to turn her. She told them about the Cullens agreeing to help them fulfill their plan. She told them how Jasper robbed her of her own free will using his powers to make her believe she was in love with Edward. She told them how it was her love for Jacob that freed her from Jasper's hold and allowed her to escape back to her yard.
"The last thing I heard before I backed out was Jacob say I was dead to him and if he ever saw me again he'd kill me himself. Drustan used his light to heal me and five days later I woke up in South Dakota. I met Altropos my Sister of Fate and the rest is history." she finished.
By now they had made it back to the edge of the woods outside of Old Quil ' s house. Embry surprised Bella by wrapping her into a giant bear hug.
"I'm so sorry Bella. We had no idea. I'm sorry for everything you've gone through."
"You know Bella if you ever decide to give up on our beloved alpha I'd be willing to show you what it's like to date a real wolf." he said throwing an arm around her shoulders and wagging his eyebrows suggestively.
Quil cursed as his grandfather smacked him hard on the back of the head. Bella laughed as Embry rolled his eyes at his friends lame attempt at flirtation.
"You know two out of eight wolves isn't bad. I was expecting the whole pack to hate me." she joked.
Quil's face turned serious as her looked her in the eye. "Don't worry about the rest of the pack. Embry and I have your back and we won't let anyone cause you any was quick to offer his words of agreement before Old Quil told them to round up Jake and the pack and meet at his house in a half an hour so Bella could tell everyone the good news about the wendigo. After two quick hugs and promises to keep her secret to themselves Quil and Embry left to round up pack, both hoping Jake would come to his senses and give Bella a second chance.
A/N 2- I hope you all like this chapter again sorry for the long wait! Please leave a review if you like it even if it's a few words they all mean so much to me and really keep my muse going!
A/N 3- FYI I typed this chapter on my phone so if there are any strange words that don't make sense in the middle of a sentence blame auto correct.