A.N: So… It's been a while huh? Work is killing me, I barely have time to do anything anymore, but never fear! I have another chapter in the works already. I made the most of my weekend as you can see =]
The Captain is ill! Oh no! But she still managed to edit this for me, because she's just that amazing! 2damnpretty2die is my biggest supporter and my number one fan and I love her to bits! Get well soon Captain!
Chapter 27: Lauren
General p.o.v
The night was dark and the moon was glowing. Erica stood on the roof on her building, pacing as she waited for her answer. Her mind was reeling, could her father really be so cruel and insane that he would completely disregard family, blood? It couldn't be. Trevor's death was an accident and her father had mourned the loss of his son, or was that just an act? She had no idea what to believe anymore.
"You rang?" Erica spun around at the voice and sighed in relief when she recognised the aura.
"You're late." She growled, "Where have you been?"
There was a chuckle as the figure emerged from shadows, features hidden by a black cloak.
"Are you laughing at me? You-" Erica froze and tensed as she realized something was wrong. "Wait, I didn't call for you, I called for-"
"- I know. And she's…unavailable right now. You called at a really unfortunate time, and so you get me." The figure interrupted.
Erica studied the woman in front of her, and finally relaxed when she felt no ill will radiating off the other woman. "Is everything okay?"
There was a scoff from the other woman. "Of course, she's fine, like I said, she's just busy." There was silence as Erica was lost in her thoughts, unaware of the studious eyes upon her. "You've been crying." It was a statement and not a question. She already knew the answer, but still felt the need to point it out.
Erica flinched and spun away so her back was to the other woman. She hated that she had let another being see her weakness, but she had ran out of options. She was surprised when strong arms came around her and pulled her backwards towards a firm and warm body. "What's the matter?" The voice was so soft and full of concern that she felt tears start to build up unwillingly. She closed her eyes, willing the tears to go away. She had already cried far too much in her opinion.
"It doesn't matter, you wouldn't understand, that's why I called her. I need to talk to-"
"Erica" the voice was firm and steady, and she began to shake.
"My… My, father." She managed to spit out through clenched teeth. She felt the body behind her shake as a chuckle vibrated through her body.
"Ah, the great and almighty Hades. What has he done this time?"
Erica bristled at the patronising tone and fought to get out of the hold. "I knew you wouldn't understand."
"What did he do?" The woman was unrelenting as she pushed Erica to talk.
"Just let me go!" Erica growled. She was shocked when she was suddenly spun around and came face to face with dark eyes that seemed to be glowing beneath the moon.
"What did he do to you?" The eyes seemed to penetrate into her soul and she was frozen. "Erica, tell me." She couldn't move she couldn't speak; she had never noticed how captivating her eyes were. The other woman seemed to notice Erica's struggle and a chuckle rang through the air. "Would you like me to read your mind instead?"
That snapped Erica out of her daze, and she averted her eyes, staring at a random spot towards the left of the other woman. "He's trying to kill me."
"That's not new. He's been sending you out on some ridiculous missions against Zeus and his soldiers; you could die at any time."
"Yeah, but I'm still not healed from the last time and he wants me to keep using the serum. It's going to kill me and he doesn't care. He's given me a week to 'heal' and then I have to go, or else… He said… He said he doesn't care what my condition is by then, because if the serum doesn't kill me, he would. What kind of father says that?"
"You always knew there were going to be risks in using the serum, you and Hades made the choice to use it, I'm not surprised that it's destroying you."
"That's not the point!" Erica shouted in defiance.
"I know, I'm getting there." The woman sighed. "Hades has always been a monster, that's not news. He's willing to do anything and everything in order to achieve his goals. So why are you surprised that he's treating you this way?"
"I'm his daughter!" Erica screamed out. "And he's supposed to care about me. My brother died and he doesn't even care. I'm his only heir, but he said he doesn't need me. That he could always find a new one, create a new and better one. One that would do whatever he said whenever he said. He doesn't care about blood, it means nothing to him! He was never like this. I was his prized treasure, I did everything he wanted, but it's still not enough, I'm just a disappointment in his eyes." She couldn't hold it back anymore as sobs racked through her body. Warm hands guided her head to the woman's shoulder, and the arms tightened their hold around her. "I'm nothing to him!"
"Will you let me see?" She asked Erica softly. Erica stiffened and stared at her, but upon seeing no malice in her eyes, nodded and tilted her head, closing her eyes as she felt teeth penetrate the skin on her neck. She relaxed as she allowed the memories of the afternoon flow into the other woman, holding back her tears as she relived the moment.
"He's right you know? Blood means nothing to family." Erica tensed, but a strong hand kept her head still as the other ran soothing patterns across her back. "If you trust and care for something enough, they can become your new family. You can't choose blood, but you can choose family. It doesn't matter if they share your blood, if you can't trust them and they don't support you, then that's not family. Family will fight for you, defend you, they will care for you, and they will do whatever it is that you can't. They support one another, without expectations, they do it without you asking them, and they stay by your side when the world abandons you."
"But he's the only family I have left." Erica cried out.
"Then I'll be your new family." The reply came instantly and she was caught off guard.
"But you're…"
"I know." The woman chuckled. "That didn't quite make my point. But either way, you're not alone. I am willing to support you, to share your burdens. I mean, we're both vampires, so we're practically part of the same family anyway. But I will fight for your freedom, fight for your right. Hades is not the only person you can count on. You may have made many enemies, but it wasn't your choice was it? It was under the orders of Hades, he's controlled your life for so long, don't you think it's time you took back that control?"
"Can I?" She sounded uncharacteristically small, so childlike.
"If you want to, then I will help you. I can't just stand by and watch Hades completely destroy you. I won't let that happen. But you have to want it. If you don't, then nothing will come of it."
"Where will I go?"
"Home."
"Home? I don't belong there anymore. Not after everything I've done to them."
"Zeus and Poseidon will understand, and Artemis and Calliope will get over it. Nothing you've done was in your control. We were once a family, living upon the same land; it's where Cronus started it all, where we all belong."
"I-I don't know if I can." Erica stated sadly, she had been with Hades her entire life, and she didn't know if she could escape his grasp.
"I'm not expecting an answer now. But I want you to know, whatever you want, I'll help you."
"I… Thank you." Erica replied, in the most sincere voice she could muster. The other woman overwhelmed her. Never before, in her life, had anyone ever shown her such compassion and love. She didn't know how to react.
"Just remember, it's what you want, and not what other people want. Be selfish for a change." She teased, and Erica could feel her lips curling into a smile. The other woman suddenly stiffened and Erica drew back, staring at her curiously.
"Are you okay?" She asked in concern. The woman had been so kind and loving to her and it was the least she could do.
"Yeah, sorry. I'm just being missed right now." She replied jovially.
"You need to go then?" There was a hint of sadness underlining her statement; she didn't want her to leave, not yet. She wanted to bask in the warmth and love radiating off the woman.
"I do," Erica moved backwards, but a hand on her shoulder stopped her. The other woman leaned in and kissed her on the forehead. "But if you ever need me. Just call." She smirked as a gush of wind blew past, taking her away with it.
Erica stood there, staring at the spot where the other woman once stood, and a genuine smile crossed her lips. It had been so long since she had felt this good, and she was going to hold onto this moment until the next time.
Arizona p.o.v
Yesterday was rough as we watched Lexie wipe the floor with Mark, Alex, Teddy and Addison. I still found it hard to believe that Terri would teach Lexie this way of fighting, but after stewing on it for a night, I realised that Tim really did have a point. Lexie doesn't like fighting, she hates it, and it would make sense that Lexie would pick up the most deadly and efficient style. It would make people fear her enough to not want to pick a fight with her. But it didn't mean that I was happy with it. It may be deadly, but it was cruel and a complete opposite to the shy and doe-eyed intern we had met back in Seattle. I looked around at my friends, at Calliope. I guess we've all change a bit.
"Hey, you okay?" Calliope's soft voice filtered into my mind and a smile graced my lips.
"With you? Always." She chuckled at me, taking my hand into her warm ones.
"Ever the charmer, Dr Robbins." She teased.
"Gotta give you some reason to stick around." I teased back playfully.
"You know it's not because of your charms."
"Oh?" I raised an eyebrow. "Then what could it be? My amazing body? My awesome bedside manner? My super fighting skills? Am I close?" Her grin was getting wider with each guess and I could see the happiness reflected in her eyes.
"You know why."
"Maybe, but I want to hear it anyway." I was grinning so wide, I thought my face was about to split.
"Because I love you, you goof." She laughed.
"You love me?" I replied with mock surprise, raising my free hand to my chest. "Oh my gosh, I must be dreaming! The Calliope Torres in in love with me! I'm going to scream it to the world!" I started to raise my voice, drawing the attention of several soldiers who were patrolling the area. "Calliope Torres loves m-"
I was cut off as her hand slapped over my mouth. "You're such a dork." She stated with a loving smile, even as a red hue began to overtake her cheeks. She leaned in and kissed me briefly, but I wrapped my arms around her waist and pulled her back, deepening the kiss as she wrapped her arms around my shoulders.
We were interrupted by a wolf whistle, and we broke apart to see Aria grinning cheekily at us. "You're giving one hell of a show to the men." I glanced over to see the patrolling soldiers staring at us, wide eyed, and chuckled as Calliope blushed brightly and buried her head into my neck. "Aw man, I totally could've gotten to second base!" I teased, barely flinching as I received a pinch to my side.
"And I totally would've let you, but I'm not okay with all these people staring at my sister." Aria replied in the same teasing voice.
"Aria! Don't encourage her!" Calliope scolded playfully, still embarrassed by our earlier display.
"Besides, we've got work to do." Aria relented, narrowing her eyes at Calliope.
"Where's Terri?" I asked.
"Elizabeth came to our room early this morning and pulled her away. I'm not too happy about that." Aria complained.
"Oh? And why could that be?" Calliope teased.
"Oh please nothing like that. Terri's just been pretty busy, so I wanted her to get a good night's rest, I mean she's only just been revived and it's been 'go, go, go!' so far. God forbid my wife gets one night of rest."
"Your wife?" Calliope asked in shock, as Aria froze.
"Ah…" Aria seemed completely frozen as she realized what she had said.
"When did that happen?" Addison asked, it would appear that our friends had come over whilst Aria was ranting, without us noticing.
"I guess I forgot to tell you all, huh?" She replied sheepishly.
"Damn right you did. What the hell Aria?" Calliope reprimanded.
"Sorry, I guess I was just so happy, and then we were all so busy that I forgot I hadn't actually told you."
I placed my hand on Calliope's back in an attempt to soothe her, "so, when did this happen Aria?"
"A little while after Terri was revived, and just after Zeus transferred us here. Terri had fully awakened and Zeus, Theia, Helios and your parents were there Arizona. The moment seemed right and I asked them to finalise our mating and officiate our bonding ceremony. So officially, we're married!" Aria finished happily.
"Congratulations!" Addison squealed and pulled her into a hug.
"Does Mama know?" Calliope asked, and Aria scowled.
"No she doesn't. Otherwise she wouldn't be trying to convince me to get away from her. I had five members of the Royal family and two Elders to witness the ceremony, and that's all that matters."
"Which Elders?" I asked, wondering who could've kept that secret for so long, although, in the back of my mind, I already knew.
"Elizabeth and Richard." Of course, who else?
"You should still let Mama know Aria. She's our mother and she loves you, regardless of what she's done, she just wants you to be happy."
"I know, and I will, but not now."
"Okay. And Aria?"
"Yeah?"
"Congratulations. I'm so happy for you." This brought a real smile from Aria as the sisters hugged.
"Don't worry; Terri already mentioned the fact that my family missed the first ceremony, so she said we'd do another one, with everyone attending this time."
"Damn right you are, otherwise I'd have to kick your ass for not inviting your only sister to your wedding!"
"Group hug!" I screamed, and we all piled on top of Aria in a fit of giggles and laughs, 'congratulations' and kisses on cheeks being passed around.
"Am I interrupting?" We scrambled apart and saw Lexie staring at us with her head tilted in confusion.
"Nope, I was just telling them about my wife." Aria replied proudly, and a genuine smile came across her lips.
"Yes, it was a beautiful ceremony." She replied.
"Wait, you were there?" Addison asked curiously, and a tiny bit jealous that Lexie got the witness the ceremony.
"Lexie goes wherever we go, so obviously she'd be there. She even helped out."
"What exactly happens in the bonding ceremony? I mean I thought it was just about giving in to your mate and that was it?" Calliope asked.
"Well, sort of, but as a Royal, for it to be properly recognised, you need to go through a ceremony. There are symbols and magic circles and everything!" Aria replied cryptically.
"Aria!" Calliope whined.
"Okay fine, but yes, once we're in the circle, we kneel facing each other and our wrists are slit and then bounded together by a piece of leather. Theia then started chanting, and I zoned out a little bit there, just staring at Terri." Aria said sheepishly. "But then there was this rush of energy that overcame me and when I looked at our bounded wrists, I noticed that there was this golden and white glow surrounding it. It kinda freaked me out, but Terri was completely calm, when I looked at her, her eyes were completely white with golden sparks and her fangs were out. And then we said our sort-of vows and we fed off each other and then we were surrounded by a bright light, sort of like UFO abduction. But yeah, when the light disappeared, everyone was coming and saying congratulations and stuff, so I guess we'd finished the ceremony." Aria finished with a dreamily look on her face.
"That's so cool." Teddy gushed.
"What did you mean 'sort-of' vows?" Addison asked confusion and Aria blushed. "Oh, is it personal?"
"Not really, just…" Aria trailed off as she stared off into the distance, a smile playing on her lips. "She said that she would love me forever, would protect me and fight for me for the rest of eternity. She would never leave my side and would lay down her life for me. She said that her heart was mine and that she would hold up these vows until the day the world ended."
Addison squealed once again, "That is so romantic. Who could've guessed that Terri had it in her to say things like that? Hell, I'm practically swooning just hearing it from Aria's mouth!"
"What did you say then?" Teddy asked, bouncing in anticipation.
Aria blushed again and stared at the floor. "I was so shocked and surprised by what she had said and was crying. And like Addison said, I was swooning and had practically melted on the spot at her declaration. I was pretty much a puddle of mess and all I could manage out was 'I love you, I love you so much'. It was so embarrassing!" I burst out laughing as I could picture it happening and Aria smacked me on the arm.
"It's not funny!" she whined.
"Oh my god! That is hilarious Aria!" Calliope panted out in between laughs. "I mean, she's made some amazing promises to you and all you can say is 'I love you', but I guess at least you said something right?"
"Evil! You're all evil!" Aria shouted. "Stop laughing at me!"
The moment was interrupted as a flaming spear flew at us.
We jumped apart and Lexie appeared in front of Aria, sword materialized and ready to attack.
"What the hell was that?" Mark shouted, as we stared at the still flaming spear that was now planted in the centre of us.
Off in the distance we heard a howl and I stiffened as I realised what it could mean.
"Ari!" a shout came, "are you all okay?" I looked over to see Tim running towards us.
The air suddenly became suffocating, as Terri appeared, staring at the spear in front of her. She let out a growl, cursing under her breath as she moved to grasp the flaming spear; the flames extinguishing immediately when her hand made contact.
"What was that?" Aria asked in shock.
"Are you okay?" Terri's cold voice asked.
"Yeah, just a bit shocked." Aria's voice was shaking.
"Are you hurt?"
"No, no I'm fine." Aria reassured, and I swear I could see Terri relax slightly.
"Terri, what is that?" I asked.
"Lycans." It was Tim who replied.
"Lycans? As in werewolves?" Addison asked in shock.
"Yeah, the flaming spear is basically a notice of challenge. It's a declaration of war of sorts. Though I don't know why they would…" Tim replied absentmindedly.
I studied the spear and when I noticed the familiar markings and I gasped in realisation. "Is that?"
"The Randall Clan" Tim growled.
A loud crack was heard as the spear was crushed in Terri's hand. I felt Calliope jump in surprise beside me and I reached for her hand immediately.
"Who is the Randall Clan?" Teddy asked.
"Randall means 'shield wolf', they are protectors and are hired to protect their employers. Though there has always been a peace treaty between us, so this doesn't make sense. They wouldn't risk their clan. Not against the vampires and definitely not against all the Royal members of the vampires." I explained.
"Athena!" Elizabeth came rushing to our side, and when she saw the spear she paused. "I thought I'd felt a disturbance, the King has been notified. We need to get to the throne room."
We left immediately, but I realised that Terri hadn't followed. When I turned, I saw that she hadn't moved from her spot and was now staring off in the direction where we had heard the howl emanate from, a deep look of sorrow on her face. I was shocked to see any emotion on her face; she had been nothing but calm and cold since arriving.
Why is she so sad?
Hades p.o.v
A tall, muscular man, easily towering over my men, stood before me in the throne room.
"Ah, Luke, it has been many moons since we last saw each other, hasn't it? How is that forest treating you?"
He growled in my direction, showing an impressive set of teeth. "Don't talk to me about the forest. Caleb had no right in banishing me. That little cub thinks that just because Fenrir has blessed him with his presence that he can do as he wishes. I am the rightful Alpha to our clan and he is nothing but a child!" He roared, the walls shaking as his anger radiated off of him in waves.
I raised an eyebrow at his display. "Impressive, but I'm rather fond of the decorations in this room, so if you'd please tone it down just a notch?"
He growled, but complied as he relaxed his stance, huffing and puffing about the cub beneath his breath.
Oh, Lycans, so immature and wild and so very disgusting.
"So what can I do for you today?" I asked, feigning interest.
"I have a proposition. You want to take down Zeus, and I want Caleb gone. So we work together, I'll help you get rid of Athena and her merry band of followers and you destroy Caleb."
"Oh? And what makes you think you can take on Athena?" I asked in amusement.
"Because I know her weakness." He replied smugly. Oh? This was new.
"And what could that be?"
"Someone who means a lot to her, and no, I'm not talking about her bride. I'm talking about someone blonde, much smaller and not a bloodsucker. Someone, who'll get her to drop her defences."
"And what makes you think this person is willing to help you?"
"Oh, she doesn't have to. I can make her." He replied cryptically, grinning as his canines appeared.
"So you want me to remove Caleb from the Alpha position and you'll 'take care' of Athena for me?" I reaffirmed.
"Yes, Athena is a child, just like Caleb. She's young and emotional, and lets personal feelings get in the way, just like Caleb. The two of them are nothing like you and I. We will do anything it takes to succeed. Am I correct?"
"Hmmm? I agree. And you have the power to take her down? Or are you here requesting assistance?"
He scoffed at the idea. "Please, I'm not the only one who's unsatisfied with Caleb's ruling. He's put us under the bloodsuckers, when we are clearly superior."
I smirked at his smugness, and even though a part of me wanted to crush this beast in front of me, another part of me wanted to know what he was going to do.
"And when we succeed, I want you to acknowledge that!" He continued.
"Acknowledge what?"
"That we are not beneath the vampires. When you and I rule over our clans, I want you to create a new clause in the treaty and states that the vampires and the Randall clan are equals. And that we did not surrender nor are we afraid of the vampires!"
I contemplated this for a while. I guess I could use the entertainment; it's getting rather quiet lately.
"Luke Randall, of the Randall clan, I accept your proposition. Once you remove Athena, I will demolish Caleb and his followers." I stood and walked towards the man, craning my neck backwards as I got closer, and shook his hand.
Why must these beasts be so tall? I detest having to 'look up' at them. They are nothing but furry foot warmers, but they are rather amusing.
"When will you make your move?" I asked.
He smirked back at me, "I already have."
"Oh? You were confident that I would accept?"
"I know that Athena has been a thorn in your side for a very long time and that daughter of yours hasn't achieved anything. Rather disappointing right? So I thought I'd help you along."
I narrowed my eyes at him. "Do not talk to me about that girl. Until she proves herself worthy of holding the name 'Hahn', she is not my daughter."
His laugh echoed along the corridors as he left, and I returned to my throne.
"What do you think?" I questioned into the seemingly empty room.
"Even if he doesn't succeed, he will provide enough of a distraction for me to finish her." A voice replied, as a cloaked figure emerged from one of the fake walls along the side.
"How certain are you that he will even register on her radar?"
"Athena has a very deep relationship with those of the Randall clan, especially the Alpha's wife, Lauren. If he has already sent his declaration of war, then Athena will most definitely respond."
"Hmm?" I replied, unconvinced.
"I have been with her since she was born. I am well aware of her personality and behaviour." He replied firmly.
"Well, but of course, Elder." I teased, and with a grunt he was gone.
Well Athena, it seems another challenger has entered our game. Don't disappoint me will you? I'm getting ever so bored.
General p.o.v
The throne room was filled with anger at the wolves' attack.
"This is unacceptable!" Elder Martin Francis spat out, "the treaty with the Randall Clan has been set since the early days of the King's reign. What gives them the right to launch an attack at not just a Royal member of our clan, but the Bride of the Crown?"
"I agree. We should launch our counter immediately." General James Howard replied.
"I believe we should send a messenger to the Alpha, just to try and understand the situation." Elizabeth added.
"That's pointless, they have blatantly declared war! They've invaded our land and attack our people, for no reason whatsoever!" Elder Francis rebuked.
"Athena." Zeus' voice silenced the entire court. "You've been rather silent. You have the strongest relationship with the Randall Clan. What are your thoughts?"
"My thoughts?" Athena replied coldly as she threw the now broken spear on the floor in front of the King. "I think whoever threw this spear was stupid to use Lauren's weapon." A gasp left the lips of the Elders and Generals. "She wouldn't do that to me, to us. Not considering what we share, she wouldn't…no, she can't attack us."
Athena's passionate reply caught Artemis and their friends off guard, as Aria glanced at her curiously.
"Who's Lauren, and what did she mean 'what we share'?" Aria thought.
"I agree, so how do you want to handle this?" Zeus asked.
"My Lord! You can not expect Athena to lead this inquest." Elder Francis protested.
"Are you questioning my authority?"
"N-no of course not, my Lord." He stuttered in reply.
"Very well, Athena?"
"I will handle it. Just give me a few days." Athena replied.
"Very well, the issue will be put on hold until Athena finishes with her inquest."
Callie p.o.v
The next few days were a blur. Training had been held off whilst Terri was busy with the investigation, Lexie, Aria, Clio and Thalia appeared just as busy, and training amongst ourselves were giving much results.
I found Arizona pacing the gardens, brows furrowed, muttering to herself under her breath.
"Hey, what's the matter?" I placed my hands on her shoulders to stop her from pacing.
"Terri!" She growled in reply. "I want to help, but she's freezing me out. She won't let me know anything!"
"Do you know anything about her and…Lauren?" I asked as I tried to recall the name Terri had called out.
"No, and that's the problem. No one knows about it. They just know that something happened between them, and the ones who do know, won't tell me!"
"Hey, hey, calm down. Here, sit with me." I patted to the space next to me as I sat down on the low wall.
"What do you know about the Randall Clan?" I asked.
"Not much, I know of them, but not much about them. They're a peaceful clan that are tasked with protecting their sacred grounds. The ground that their ancestors founded and they live amongst themselves, occasionally leaving their grounds to protect those who are worthy of it."
"What does that mean?"
"There are certain people or beings that request their help for missions and tasks. And if the Randall Clan deem their heart to be pure and worthy and noble then they accept and protect them." She explained.
"Um… 'beings'?" I asked wide-eyed. 'Beings' as in mythical and magical beings?
She chuckled at this, "Calliope, we're vampires, and they are werewolves. Did you really think that there wouldn't be other beings out there?"
"Oh…Right." I'd guessed that was a pretty stupid question. "So, um, how did this treaty come about?"
"I'm not sure, I just know that a few years after Zeus took the throne, he approached the Alpha, the leader of the Randall Clan, and they agreed upon a peace treaty between us. We don't interfere with each other's business, but at the same time, we will provide assistance to each other if needed. And attacking us out of the blue is a clear no-no."
"Ah, right." I thought about this for a while before an idea struck me. "Ari, why don't you go to their Alpha and sort it out?"
"What? Why would I do that? I can't just randomly approach the Alpha and start accusing them of attacking us!" She actually seemed insulted by the idea and I raised my hands.
"Okay, calm down. Not what I meant. I mean, Terri's already confirmed that the spear belongs to Lauren, so you could just go and ask them. No accusations, you're just acting as the messenger?"
She looked interested in the idea, before deflating again. "Even if I wanted to I don't know where they are. Their location is hidden and I'm pretty sure that only Zeus, my parents, Terri, Richard and Elizabeth know where they are. And I guarantee that they won't tell me." She pouted, and I couldn't resist leaning over and kissing the protruding lip. She fell into my arms and buried her head into my neck. Sometimes she was just too adorable.
"It's okay. We'll figure something out." I reassured her, even though I had no idea where to even begin.
"Uh, come again Callie?" Mark asked.
"I said we're going to the library in the mansion to try and find out where the Randall Clan is located. We're going to help sort this out. Terri is getting stressed over this and in turn Aria and Arizona is, and it's making me stressed out!" I explained in frustration, having gone through this conversation three times already.
"Yeah, but what are you expecting to find in the library?" Teddy asked.
"I don't know. I'm sure they have records or something there." I answered.
"O…kay. And how are you expecting to do this? We can't just traipse into the library and start searching for books and records on Lycans and stuff. We'll get caught." Addie added.
"True, but we're going in at night. Less people around then, so we'll be fine. Are you with me?" I looked around hopefully at me friends.
"Sure." Alex was the first to reply. "If it's going to help Robbins, I'm in." I smiled at his gruff reply. Even after all this time, his loyalty to Arizona still warmed my heart.
"Well I'm not letting you there alone. Lucia will kill me if anything happened to you." Mark added.
"Me too, and I'm doing this as your best friend." Addie joined in, glaring at Mark.
"Well, you can't leave me out of this!" Teddy exuberant reply was odd, and I wondered if she still had a concussion from her fight with Lexie.
"Awesome." I replied, a bright smile planted on my face.
That night we crept along the corridors, making our way towards the library. We made it without any problems and started our search amongst the rows and rows of bookshelves.
"Jesus, how many books do they need?" Addie exclaimed in wonder.
"Shhh!" I replied in a whisper.
She raised a brow at me. "You do know that we're in a manor filled with vampires who can sense our presences without hearing us right?"
I paused at that; mentally face palming for actually forgetting about that part. "Whatever Addie, just don't draw unnecessary attention!" I returned my attention to the book in front of me, which just so happened to be about marks from the King and the Crown. I figured we could find out more about Terri's mark on Arizona and I. I still shivered at the thought of her marking my sweet Arizona.
"Who goes there?" There was a sudden light that shone upon us from the doorway and the lights overhead suddenly turned on. Shit!
We all froze as the guards stared at us in question. "What are you doing in here? In the dark as well."
"Um… I… We…" I stuttered, dammit, I was supposed to be calm and in control and here I was stuttering like a fool.
"We were bored and thought we'd find something to read." Addie came to my rescue.
"In the dark?" The guard questioned.
"Is that a problem?" Addie replied in her most stern voice, causing the guard to stutter.
"N-no ma'am." I tried not to laugh, and I could see the others trying their best to hold in their laughter as well. The guard recovered quickly though. "You're not allowed to be in here without permission."
"In the library?" Addie replied just as quick.
"Yes, this is filled with the history of our clan. If you want to read about it, then talk to the librarian in the morning. You're being rather suspicious right now, coming in here in the middle of the night, in the dark." He had a point to be honest, but I really wanted to help Arizona.
Seeing that we weren't going to move, he reached out and grabbed the nearest person, who just so happened to be me and dragged me towards the door.
"Get off me!" I growled out, eyes ablaze and fangs emerging. He responded in kind, eyes roaring a dull grey, fangs growling at me.
"What's going on in here?" An icy voice caused us all to freeze.
"C-chief!" The guard immediately stood to attention. We relaxed slightly at the sight of Lexie standing in the doorway. "These people were being suspicious, hiding in the library in the dark an-"
"Do you know who that is?" She cut him off pointing at me.
"Ma'am?" I was genuinely surprised that he didn't know who I was. I'd assumed that everyone could sense the bond I shared with Arizona, but I guess the lower and weaker ones couldn't. A new lesson learned every day I suppose.
"That is the mate of Artemis." She replied voice still as icy as ever, and I could see the guard pale immediately. I felt sorry for him, but I was still annoyed that he had interrupted our research. "And if you don't want Artemis to amputate that hand, I strongly suggest that you unhand Calliope, now." The guard immediately obeyed and bowed his head in apology. Lexie seriously impressed me right now. I could still remember the first time I met her at SGMW when she was the perky, but shy intern. Her demeanour right now was pretty much like the Nazi, a.k.a Miranda Bailey; one who could make even the strongest men cower before her. How times have changed.
"I apologise ma'am. I'm sorry, but the library is still off limits right now." The guard addressed me, but before I could reply, Lexie cut in.
"Do you really think Calliope is going to run off with any classified information about us? And what exactly do you think is stored in here other than history books about our ancestors and politics?"
It irked me that Lexie kept calling me Calliope, but I guess that's what I was known as around here: Calliope Torres, daughter of Elder Mnemosyne Torres, mate of Artemis Arizona Robbins.
"I…" The guard stuttered.
"That's enough. Leave!" She barked out and the guard disappeared immediately. Like I said, it was impressive.
She levelled her eyes at us and I involuntarily gulped.
"T-thanks Lexie." Mark started, unsure of how receptive she was going to be.
"I didn't do it for you. I just don't want it getting back to Athena. She has enough to worry about right now and she doesn't need more whispers of how Artemis has problems controlling her mate."
I bristled at her statement. Controlling her mate? I'm not a fucking pet! "Hey, wait a min-"
"Besides, what you're looking for isn't in here." She continued, completely disregarding me.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Teddy inquired.
"You're looking for information about the Randall Clan right?" We remained silent; completely shocked that she knew of our intentions. "Then your answers reside in Athena's office.
"A-Athena's office?" I asked. I really didn't want to get tangled with Terri right now.
"Yes, she's not there right now, and won't be returning any time soon. Aria convinced her to get some sleep so they're both in their room right now."
I was conflicted. On the one hand I really wanted to help Arizona and in turn Terri, but on the other, I really didn't want to get caught sneaking around in the Crown Princess' office. Lexie seemed to be aware of my internal conflict as she walked up to me and pointed at where Arizona and Terri's mark were.
"That," she paused, making sure I was listening, "gives you the permission and authority to get into anywhere. On behalf of the Crown." She finished and walked away.
"Lexie!" She halted, but didn't turn around. "Thank you."
"Like I said, I'm not doing this for you." With that she was gone.
I turned to look at my friends. "I guess we're going to Terri's office."
General p.o.v
Lexie walked out of the room and made her way back to her own office. As she turned the corner, she was greeted with the unexpected sight of Terri and Aria, the former whom was staring emotionlessly at her, sending shivers through her body.
"Master!" she breathed out in shock. "What are you doing here?"
"Did you complete your task?" Terri remained completely blank.
"I did, they're headed to your office now."
"And the file?"
"It's hidden, yet in an obvious place." Lexie replied obediently.
"Good work Lex. Go get some sleep. We're going to have a busy day tomorrow." Aria replied cheerfully.
"There's still some files on the Randall Clan I need to read up on." She replied.
"Don't worry about it; you have time tomorrow before we leave. And I believe you already know all the important parts." Aria insisted. Lexie relented and bowed her head before making her way back to her room.
The moment Lexie was out of sight, Aria turned to Terri. "You want to tell me what it's about?" She continued when she received no reply. "You wanna tell me about Lauren?"
"Do you trust me?" Terri asked.
"With my life, you know that."
"Then just leave it for now. The truth will come out soon. But know this. You are my wife. You are my life, my heart and my soul. Both Terri and I accept you and you are the only one who matters to us." The conviction in her voice was enough to reassure her.
"Just tell me one thing. Are you, or have you ever been, in love with Lauren?"
"No. What we have between us is nothing like that. I promise."
"Okay. I believe you. And you're the only one who matters to me too. I love you." Aria wrapped her arms around her neck and Terri leaned her forehead against Aria's.
"She's returning soon. I can feel it."
"R-really?" Aria asked in shock, tears building. "Are you sure?"
"Positive. She's getting stronger every day, thanks to you. She's coming back very soon."
"I can't wait."
Arizona p.o.v
The next day I wandered into the gardens in search of Calliope. She had left in the middle of the night saying something about a 'secret meeting' with Addison and Mark. I found her sitting on the low wall, staring out into the trees that surrounded the land. Seeing that she hadn't noticed met yet, I snuck up behind her and placed my hands over her eyes.
"Guess who?" I whispered into her ear and felt her shiver.
"Hm… I wonder who it could be? That sexy voice, those soft silky hands, and that irresistible smell…" I could practically hear the smirk forming on her lips. "Addie?" She grabbed my hands to remove them and turned to face me.
"Mean!" I pouted as I took my place beside her.
"Aw, baby, you know I'm just kidding." She leaned over to kiss my cheek.
"Na-uh, not good enough Calliope." I teased, and she sighed dramatically.
"Oh the things I do for you." She placed both hands on my cheeks and drew me in for a deep and passionate kiss that left us both breathless. "How about now?"
"I think I've forgotten my own name, let alone why I was mad." I replied playfully, as I tried to find my way out of the fog the always overcame my mind whenever she kissed me.
"Well, that's okay. As long as you remember mine, that's all you'll ever need to say." She whispered seductively in my ear, sucking on the lobe causing shivers to vibrate through my entire body.
"Calliope" I moaned out.
"Just like that." She teased before drawing back as I pouted at the loss of contact.
"Mean!" She opened her arms as I willingly fell into them, snuggling up to her, relishing in the calm and peacefulness that always came along with being near my mate.
"I'll make it up to you." She promised. "But first, I have news and a present."
"Oh? Am I missing something? An anniversary or something?"
"No, nothing like that. But I have news about the Randall Clan, and my present is the file on them." I sat up immediately; stunned that she had found anything.
"H-how?" I listened intently and she recalled the tale of her secret mission last night and when she was finished, I could only stare at her in awe.
She started to fidget under my scrutiny and I could see a blush working its way up from her chest. "Ari?"
"I love you so much." I breathed out, pulling her into a deep kiss, drawing a moan from her.
"Woah, I love you too." She said the moment we broke apart. "I should do things for you more often if this is the way you thank me."
"We can do this whenever and wherever you want baby. Just say the word." I winked at her and she grinned at me.
"So what are we going to do now?"
"I guess we're going to see the Alpha of the Randall Clan, or…" I took a look at the file Calliope gave me, "Caleb Randall."
As we made our way through the 'Howling Forest', as it was known, I couldn't help but wonder why I had never made the connection. I mean, it was so obvious, it was called the freaking Howling forest, yet I'd just assumed it was because of the 'howling winds' that appeared during the night. How very human of me.
I glanced to my left to see Calliope, Addison and Teddy, and then glanced to my right to see Mark and Alex. They had all agreed and readily jumped at the opportunity to meet with the Lycans. I was touched by their support, yet at the same time I was heartbroken; I was the one to take this away from Terri.
A warm hand slid into mine and squeezed lightly. "Everything okay?" Calliope asked.
"Yeah, just lost in thoughts is all." I replied.
We didn't get very far as rustling sounds that were not caused by the wind caught our attention. We all stood to attention, eyes ablaze and prepared for attack, when a distant howling distracted us. Before we knew it, eight to ten larger wolves, all with midnight blue fur and large snarling teeth that were snapping at us surrounded us.
Alex growled in reply and moved to attack, I barely had time to catch him before he launched. "Don't." I warned, before turning to address the pack.
"My name is Arizona Robbins, and I wish for an audience with Caleb Randall." I announced loudly.
There was silence as the wolves stared amongst each other, having a silent conversation. One wolf stepped forward and tilted its head at me.
"You want me to follow?" I asked, and it growled in reply. "Then let's go."
We followed the wolf into an open patch of land where there were several other packs waiting. They all stood and growled as soon as they caught sight of us, but the wolf leading us let out a loud roar and they all back off once again.
"This is insane" I heard Teddy's voice.
"I know, but we're on their land and we need to follow their lead, so no sudden movements and for god's sake do not attack!" I replied quickly, making sure that they all heard my order.
Once we reached the front of the packs, there was a throne made of stone and a pure white wolf watching us. He shifted back into his human form the moment we stood in front of him and I was in awe of the change. He was tall and muscular with short platinum blonde hair that stood spiked in all different directions, and hazel eyes.
"Welcome to the Randall Clan." His voice was deep and husky.
"Yes, my name is Arizona Robbins. Thank you for seeing to me and my companions." I replied in a low voice.
He tilted his head and smirked at me. "What can I do for you, Arizona? It's not often that a vampire would willingly come into our ends of the woods."
"I came to ask about this." I held out the broken spear and the growling around us grew once again. The man held up his hand to silence the pack.
"And what is that supposed to be?" He asked.
"I was hoping you'd be able to tell us. A couple of days ago, this was launched onto our land at us," I gestured to my group, "and the Bride of the Crown."
His eyes widened slightly before quickly recomposing himself. He walked forward to study the spear. "If I may?" He gestured to the spear and I handed it to him.
"I was told that this belongs to Lauren." I added, and I watched as his jaw clenched and his eyes turned icy blue. The pack immediately stood to attention once again, but this time the man did not react.
"I don't know what you're talking about. I have never seen this spear before."
"That's a lie! The markings of the Randall Clan are all over this and it smells just like this forest does." I insisted.
"You make wild assumptions, Blondie, assumptions that you have no way of supporting. If you have come here to make accusations, then I should tell you that it is against our treaty, and considering that you are on our land, that is punishable by death." He growled, and I watched as his teeth began to sharpen.
Alex and Mark immediately stepped forward, eyes changing and fangs appearing. "Watch what you are saying, dog." Alex growled in return, and the man tensed as his eyes narrowed. I could feel fear, that didn't belong to me, echo through my heart and knew right away that it was Calliope. I stepped in between the three before they could start to attack.
"Are you threatening me?" I asked in a calm and cool voice. "You are aware that threatening a Royal, regardless of location, is also punishable by death, right?"
He recoiled and his icy blue eyes studied my form from head to toe. "You're…?" He started, and his eyes widened in realisation.
"Artemis Arizona Robbins, daughter of Poseidon and Aphrodite." I answered. His nostrils flared as he let out a snort of defiance.
"It doesn't matter. You come onto our land and accuse us of attacking you?" He snarled.
"I'm not accusing anyone of anything. I came purely to understand why this spear appeared on our land. I came for answers, nothing more and nothing less." I replied in a cold voice. "Now I've been told that this spear belongs to Lauren, so I'll need to talk to her. She will be the only person to answer any of my questions, am I clear?"
"You do not get to make demands!" He roared, and I watched as his muscles tensed and bones snapped, signalling the beginning of his transformation.
Shit. I cursed in my mind, and began to form plans to protect Calliope. The pack had surrounded us and I tried to calculate how many of them we could take out.
"I believe the request to see Caleb was made." A deadly voice cut through the growls and roars, and we turned to see Aria and Lexie standing at the opening of the forest we had just left.
One of the wolves was foolish enough to launch themselves at Aria, but he was swiftly cut down by Lexie and her sword that was made purely of her own energy.
"I don't appreciate you attacking my wife." The deadly voice had appeared behind the man and we turned back to see Terri sitting atop the stone throne, eyes blazing red and a smirk set firmly upon her face.
The wolves all froze immediately. "T-Teresa?" The blonde man asked in disbelief, having shifted back into his human form at her appearance.
"It's been a while David, but surely you still recognise my scent?" She replied in amusement.
"It's really you?" Terri tilted her head, smirk never leaving her face, as she slowly stood up. The man, David, studied her carefully before walking straight up to her. I heard Calliope gasp from beside me, but I had remained still, considering that Terri had yet to react. The sight was rather amusing as David easily towered over Terri, but Terri continued to possess the more dominant role.
There was a loud burst of laughter that came from David as he took Terri into his strong arms and lifted her into air. "Holy hell. You're back!" The wolves let out a howl of joy and ran to them.
"Okay, okay, it's alright." Terri groaned out as she was knocked to the ground, muzzles surrounding her, all licking at her face. "Guys! I'm married now, and she's standing right over there!" She pointed over to Aria, and Aria took that as her cue to come forward. "Let me introduce, Aria Torres-Ryans. My wife." Aria smiled and held her hand out to David, who took in in a firm grip. "This is David Randall, my sort of brother-in-law." Aria raised a brow at the odd introduction, but they were interrupted as a smaller, grey wolf cub came out of nowhere and tackled Terri back to the ground.
"Lindsey!" came a soft voice from our left. A tall blonde woman with deep brown eyes appeared, and even though she had a scolding tone, there was a soft loving smile on her face as she watched Terri and the cub, Lindsey.
"She's gorgeous." Calliope said.
"Easy there tiger, I might get jealous." I replied, and received a small pinch on the arm.
The cub shifted into a young blonde girl. "Mommy!" she cried, burying herself into Terri's arms, and we froze. Calliope grasped my hand tightly and when I looked at her, I saw that her gaze was set upon Aria whose eyes had widened at the revelation.
"Hey there baby." Terri replied softly, staring lovingly at the girl and patting her head gently. "I've missed you."
"I missed you too, Mommy!" She nuzzled into her hand, clearly enjoying the affection.
Terri raised her head and her eyes made contact with the blonde who had called out to Lindsey. "Lauren." She whispered softly.
"Teresa." Lauren replied just as softly. They stared at each other for what seemed like ages before Lindsey unknowingly broke the moment.
"Mama! Mommy's home! Mommy's home!" The joy was evident all over the young girl's face and when I saw her eyes, I was beyond shocked to see a bright red flash through her brown eyes. What the hell?
"I can see that baby. You shouldn't just jump at her like that though." Lauren softly reprimanded the girl.
"It's okay, I know Mommy can handle it. She can do anything! You told me so!" The girl proudly replied.
"It's okay Laur, come on baby, let's get up from this floor." Once they were off the floor, Lindsey held firmly at her waist with her left arm, she reached out her right towards Lauren. "Come here." There were tears in her eyes and she ran into Terri's arms, and wrapped her own around her tightly.
"It's been so long, I've missed you so much." She sobbed into her shoulder.
"I know, I've missed you too." When they parted, Terri reached up and gently wiped the tears away from her cheek. "Here, there's someone I want you to meet." She looked at Aria and gestured for her to approach. "Lauren, this is my wife, Aria. Aria, this is my best friend and wolf partner, Lauren Randall." They shook hands, and Terri lifted Lindsey higher, "And this here is my daughter. Lindsey Randall-Ryans." I stared at the four of them in shock. Terri has a daughter. Terri has a daughter with another woman, a woman that's a wolf. What the hell? The red flash in Lindsey's eyes was Terri's power? Her influence? What's going on?
I could see the shock that graced the faces of my friends, and could tell that they were completely speechless. Turning back, I watched Aria introduce herself to Terri's daughter.
Her daughter…