Chapter 6 - Meeting
Finishing off her drink, Tanya pays her respect to the drained moose by having a proper burial for the animal. She digs about six feet of soil before burying the carcass, deep down from prying human eyes. The ritual serves the purposes of covering their tracks so as to not raise suspicions. She herself finds solace in this ritual.
Solo hunting provides her with the opportunity to soak in her thoughts and seek tranquillity. Divulging themselves in solitude has been a normal practice for the Denalis. Even for humans, spending time with oneself is deemed to be a healthy mental exercise. Leading an immortal life can take a toll on just about anyone, so it's important to find balance, especially when one is unmated.
Breathing in the cold air helps put her in such a positive mood. Alaska is home where they've put some roots into the ground. The cold temperature allows them to be comfortable in their own skin, far away from humans' prying eyes. As an inside joke, Kate says the cold helps them stay radiant (as their bodies have the capacity to age) like how cryotherapy works for humans.
Tanya snorts at the thought but it's cut short when her ears pick up the sounds of unfamiliar footsteps. She crouches low to the ground, trying to determine the number of vampires to be expected based on the vibrations in the soil. After determining the light footsteps belonging to only one vampire, Tanya decides to straighten herself up. If this vampire turns out to be a hostile one, she's confident in her skills and experience.
The footsteps suddenly slow down at a human pace, signalling the owner's intention of coming in peace. As the sound gets closer, Tanya's shoulders tense, finally recognising the approaching scent.
What is she doing here?
Tanya runs a tight ship. Unlike the Cullens, her coven's trust in each other runs deep. They practise healthy and open communication with one another. She is sure they haven't done anything that warrants a repercussion by the Volturi. Feeling assured, she finally releases a heavy breath and her muscles automatically relax. The fact that the guard appears alone should be a positive indicator.
"I wished we could have welcomed you at our home. It's much more hospitable," Tanya spoke, knowing she can hear her.
Calmly, the visitor appears in between the treeline, swaying her hips, taking all the time in the world without a care. This peaks Tanya's curiosity. The Volturi guards have zero tolerance for wasting time so why on Earth is she walking at a human pace?
Her thin lips pull into a smirk, "If this were a social visit, I would have."
Tanya bows her head by half an inch, honouring the elite Volturi guard right in front of her. Heidi returns the gesture. It was always more pleasant dealing with the Denalis than the Cullens. It is rather exciting to see if she could drive Kate into temptations this time around.
"How could we be of assistance to the Volturi?"
Her last encounter with the Volturi wasn't a pleasant one. Seeing the long, black, flowing cloak sparks a painful memory in her, which Tanya tries hard to bury even after all this time. But this is not the place and time for grief, especially not in front of Heidi Volturi. She wills the heartbreak away.
Like Heidi said, this isn't a social visit. Whatever news she brings, Tanya won't allow a false sense of security to delude her.
While Heidi may be the least volatile elite guard, her reputation as the Moonbane Mistress remains intact. Felix may be the muscle behind the war against the werewolves, but Heidi was the general. It's the reason why she had been tasked to manage the Volturi's global estates. Her sense of control could rival Carlisle and Eleazar's. Tanya would be an idiot if she doesn't proceed with caution.
"You have been selected to fulfil an important mission."
This baffles the Denali leader. She wonders why the Volturi decided to deliver the news to her instead of Eleazar when he is Aro's favourite. After the cruel execution of her coven leader, Tanya has made it a mission to avoid being on the Volturi's radar, maintaining a low profile. Thus, she isn't keen whenever Kate allows her libido to take over everytime Heidi Volturi is nearby.
Noticing Tanya's scrunched eyebrows, Heidi calls it out, "Don't be so surprised. After all, you are the coven leader."
Accepting that truth, she nods.
"And it is not Aro who made the request."
She's even more confused now. Obviously Heidi is here on official Volturi business, otherwise she wouldn't have put on the Volturi cloak. If it wasn't Aro, then who? Caius?
Heidi tilts her head towards the clear blue sky, her nose taking the lead, "Do you smell that?"
Tanya cautiously scans her surroundings. Nothing seems out of the ordinary to her vampiric senses.
"Change is coming."
Tanya's body goes rigid and her posture straightens up like a soldier being chastised for making a mistake on the battle ground.
For the first time in many millennia, the Volturi guard is being more vague than necessary. If there's one thing they know about Heidi, it's that she doesn't pull her punches.
"What the Queens need to know is which side are you on."
And then Tanya catches a whiff of the change Heidi was referring to and if she were a human, her muscles coiled tight like drawn wires beneath her skin. The hairs on the back of her neck stand up before she even registers the danger. Her fingers go numb, her knees locked—and for a second, she couldn't move at all.
Dangerous red eyes stare down at her like a predator after making her presence known. Something inside her feels like it's crumbling, suppressing all her instincts of a leader, succumbing to the fear that is trailing down her spine. It feels almost crippling.
As if there's a greater force at hand, Tanya lowers her head and bows down to the Queen standing tall right before her.
"My Queen," Tanya acknowledged.
For Tanya, the day has taken a turn for the worst. She can't help but feel the surge of fear and anger remembering the last time the Volturi paid her coven a visit.
It's been two weeks since she last saw Edward. Bella's surprised none of his siblings approached her yet to initiate a long overdue discussion between them. The Cullen siblings, sans Edward, have been acting normal on school grounds (as normal as assimilating vegetarian vampires could). She's wary but prepared for Alice to come barge into her personal space, like the pixie used to, but it never came. Granted she heard the pixie and Carlisle took a few days of leave of absence on the pretence that she needs to visit a terminally ill relative in another country. She tries not to let that fact bother her but Bella has her suspicions and is starting to get worried. She wonders if that sudden trip had anything to do with Edward (which she couldn't really put too much thought into the matter), or worse, the Volturi (this thought keeps her up at night).
So she's been going about with her mundane life and routines, knowing she can't postpone the discussion with the Cullens any much longer. As expected, she receives a text from Alice inviting her to their residence on the weekend.
Initially, she didn't want to let Charlie know as he still holds a grudge against the entire family over the damage they've done upon Bella's physical and mental health. However, she made a vow to always be truthful with him, if the situation permits. Obviously, she couldn't mention about the supernatural elements of it so she tries her best to omit some details here and keeps it straight to the point as to not arouse suspicions..
Charlie isn't much of a talker, Bella knows this much. But she's also aware that he agreed that since Bella turned eighteen a few months ago, she is now a young adult who is capable of making her own decisions, and is woman enough to face any consequences. He assured her that he'll still be there for her but hopes she chooses better this time around.
With their history, Bella thought it was best to downplay Edward's marriage proposal, which would have irked her dad more, if he knew. She swears she notices his sigh of relief when she told him she didn't say yes to getting back with him. This helps her case as it further convinces Charlie that Bella's head and heart are where they're supposed to be, and that he doesn't need to play the role of an overprotective father/scary Chief of Police.
"You have a phone. Call if you need me," was all the advice he offered before heading out to work this morning.
After making a simple sandwich for breakfast, her limbs feel heavy with reluctance. She wants to get it over with but it's not exactly a conversation she's looking forward to having. Hopefully, the Cullens are smart enough not to mention her eyebags due to lack of sleep. She stayed up all night trying to plan her talking points so she doesn't vomit her words today. God knows how desperate she is to have this discussion ending in her favour.
Grabbing her keys, she prays to God for a positive outcome for today.
Her drive to the Cullen residence is slow and steady, as she rolls down the window, allowing the fresh breath of air to fill her lungs. She's still not a big fan of the cold but when the sun is out and about, Forks is truly a beautiful place she calls home. Despite the radio being turned on, Bella fills her head with her usual mantra.
I am strong. I am here and I matter.
It does seem funny to her that this place has nestled itself onto her chest like a warm fuzzy comfort. It was supposed to be a temporary residence until she leaves for college but this town sorta grew on her.
As she turns down the almost hidden path to Cullen's residence, nostalgia hits. It feels bittersweet being here. The gorgeous house never fails to amaze her. She misses the feeling of warmth and belonging it once offered her. Surprisingly, it's not the ghost of their memories that capture her, rather the sense of belonging she once thought she had with them. She truly adored their family. It's one of the biggest reasons why she agreed to go and rescue Edward. Like her, they were too a bunch of outcasts. But together, they were a family. She doesn't have to think too much about not fitting in because individually, they are all unique in their own way and they don't pass any judgement on her (except for Alice who never failed to comment on her fashion sense).
She's not sure what the future holds but there is a big possibility that they may have to part ways again. Only this time she's well prepared; emotionally. It will be saddening to bid farewell but at least it won't blindside her and leave her broken. There may be a few pieces left in her to mend, but her soul now feels solidified. Whatever comes her way, she will face it with her chin up. It will hurt but she knows for a fact it won't destroy her.
Heaving a big sigh, she turns off the engine, aware all six vampires are there and waiting for her. Closing the door of her truck, she sees Esme waiting for her by the door with a kind smile on her face. To be honest, she's glad Esme's the first face she sees. Esme's smile gets bigger as Bella approaches and instantly, Esme cautiously opens her arms wide, "May I?" The mother hen still hasn't properly expressed her gratitude towards Bella for saving her son but she also wants to be mindful to respect Bella's boundaries.
Despite everything, Esme is still dear to her. If she were to disregard the hurt Esme caused her by leaving without a proper goodbye, this woman was a much better mother to her than Renee in the short span of knowing each other. And to be honest, she misses her too. With a nod, Bella steps into Esme's arms and returns the big hug. Both women take their time to bask in each other's arms.
"I hope you saved some space for breakfast," earning Bella a small chuckle.
She had an inkling Esme would say that, hence, she was mindful about the portion of breakfast she had this morning. Despite everything, Bella doesn't have the heart to disappoint Cullen's maternal figure. Even if her stomach was full, she's sure she would have found ways to fit all the meals Esme cooked up.
"I'm still pretty hungry from the cold," coincidentally the cold wind blew against Bella's small frame and she involuntarily shivered.
Esme's face lights up like a Christmas tree and Bella knows what it means. The motherly figure misses doting on Bella. But they both don't say it because there's a lot to be covered today. So instead, Esme escorts Bella to the kitchen where a modest breakfast awaits while instructing Emmett to grab the human a blanket from the living room. Emmett, using his vampiric speed, accomplishes the task in mere seconds as Bella realises she's wrapped warmly in a thick wool blanket that smells like Esme.
As she reaches the kitchen tool, Bella is pleasantly surprised to see the lack of a food buffet on the kitchen table. Esme did go overboard (the meals would be enough to feed her until supper) but she'd take it more than a buffet-sized meal.
Noticing Bella's grin, Esme quips, "I hope it's enough."
"It's perfect."
"Told you it was still too much!" Emmett yelled loud enough for the human to hear but then it's followed by a loud smack and a whine.
Realising Emmett was right and Bella was downplaying the situation, Esme pressed a short kiss onto her hair. Esme pours her the hot coffee before they are joined by Alice and Carlisle, who refuse to take another step in the kitchen until they obtain Bella's permission.
"Guys, this doesn't have to be super weird. This is your home after all," Bella cheekily grinned.
Relief floods them and Alice takes it as a permission to run over and engulfs Bella in a side hug, "Thank you!" After they're done exchanging pleasantries, Bella turns to Carlisle, who still hasn't moved from his earlier position.
"Please join us, Carlisle."
The doctor smiles and sits down opposite Bella's chair, at human speed. Instead of staring at the human as she enjoys the meal, they opt to act like humans and pour themselves a cup of coffee as well. From time to time, they do take a tiny sip and Bella couldn't help but chuckle at Alice's death glare towards the hot liquid. It isn't necessary for them to drink the coffee but she appreciates the efforts they've put in. These small little gestures warm her heart.
Once Bella is done with the meal, she is taken aback that Esme finally allows her to help with the dishes (in the past they always took care of it, ignoring her insistence of helping out). There's a sense of human normalcy to this routine and Bella couldn't complain. It feels nice to be useful for once in this house.
They make small talk about the changes Esme made to the kitchen (it is now forest green in colour) as they sort out the kitchen. They consciously avoid the topic of Charlie and Edward, knowing those topics would only open a can of worms they are not ready for. Today is about the Cullens family making amends with Bella.
"Bella, there's another reason why we invited you here today. And I'm afraid it can't wait."
Bella freezes.
"It's not something bad," Esme tried to reassure her. "We promise."
Unfortunately Bella couldn't find comfort in her words, as much as she wanted to. She's a wiser woman today.
"There's someone who you need to meet. And she has something important to tell you," Carlisle continued.
After they finish cleaning the kitchen, they all usher her to the living room. Sitting on the sofa is a golden-eyed vampire that she hasn't met yet. She has streaks of strawberry colour in her blonde hair and just like the other vampires, her beauty is unparalleled to a human. 6 months ago Bella would have felt uncomfortable being in the presence of another gorgeous vampire but things have changed. She's much more comfortable in her own skin.
It's unfair that vampires have super enhanced beauty but that's the point. It's truly unfair and nothing can be done about it so she should stop comparing herself in such unfair situations.
Noticing her discomfort, immediately, Esme and Alice flank her, both vampires taking a slight step forward, assuming a protective stance.
"Isabella Swan? I've heard so much about you."
Bella nervously glances at the Cullens but they throw her a reassuring glance as Tanya deliberately walks over to Bella at a human speed and extends her hand.
Having no choice but to place her trust once again on the Cullens, she solemnly nods and shakes Tanya's hand. At this point, the coldness doesn't bother her anymore. But Tanya is perceptive and concerned for the human's weariness.
"I'm Tanya Denali, the coven leader of the Denali."
Whilst she had been good friends with Carlisle for many centuries, they often disagree on many things. And the way the Cullens handle things with Isabella Swan is one of them. She's sure if the Queen were to ever find out, they'd pay for their neglect.
"I realise we are strangers but hopefully we will soon be acquainted. My apologies for interrupting your morning," her eyes drawled to both Esme and Alice, trying to chastise them in whatever capacity she has without turning the situation hostile. Bella picks it up and Tanya is relieved to see some tension leaving the human's rigid form. "However, I have a serious matter to discuss with you. Privately."
This piques Bella's curiosity.
She has heard of the Denalis before; cousins of the Cullens though not by blood. They share the same diet, as opposed to the other vampires. But she can't seem to figure out what business Tanya could possibly have with her.
"That wasn't what we agreed on!" Alice refuted as she stood up from the couch from beside Bella. "Carlisle?" She looked at him with pleading eyes.
"Forgive us, Tanya. But Bella here is under our protection and you are a stranger to her. We couldn't possibly leave her alone with you in our home nonetheless."
Tanya's head whips quickly in his direction, her eyes narrowed onto his with great displeasure.
"You insult me, Carlisle. As you are aware, I am on official Volturi business."
All vampires hear the way Bella's heart thump loudly at the mention of the Volturi. Any vampires would have a similar reaction to hearing the Volturi's name. Esme and Carlisle exchange a nervous glance. Among the coven, he's well aware the punishment awaits when a vampire interferes with Volturi's business.
Esme tries to soothe Bella's fears away by holding onto her hand, trying to grip her in the safety of her touch.
"Besides, with this type of audience, how could Bella not be anxious? Give the girl some room to breathe, will you?" Tanya retorted, challenging them to see how Bella has shrunk under their scrutiny and overprotectiveness. Since Bella is knowledgeable on the extents of a vampire's super enhanced senses, she's well aware how the others (Jasper, Emmett, Rosalie) may even be listening in to their conversation despite not being able to locate their current whereabouts.
"I'd like that actually," Bella interrupted the matching glares between the vampires.
She even throws Tanya a grateful smile.
Alice wanted to oppose the whole idea but when Esme clasps on her shoulder, she gives in. Bella may have not heard it but earlier Jasper did whisper how he could feel Bella's anxiety from just now. So they all reluctantly make their way outside, each giving Bella a reassuring glance, nod or smile.
"We'll be nearby if you need us, Bella," Esme offered with a promise.
Once Tanya is sure the Cullens are at a safe distance, she reaches down to a paper bag near the couch she's sitting on; something that Bella missed entirely.
"This is for you."
Bella awkwardly leans forward to take it from her, "Thank you?"
Unsure what she's supposed to do next, she tries to peer into the bag but she only sees a beautifully wrapped box inside. It doesn't feel too heavy as well.
"Usually people give gifts during birthdays or Christmas," was Bella's only response, letting the unspoken question linger in the air.
The statement catches Tanya off guard and the vampire lets out a genuine laugh at that, which helps Bella to feel more at ease with her.
"Isabella…"
"Just Bella."
"Bella," Tanya started with a smile. "My coven has been assigned to a special mission concerning you. It has come to our attention that the vampiric world is changing and you will play an important role in it."
This is where Tanya loses Bella.
"Do I need to be turned soon?" Was all the question she asked. "How much time do I have left to say goodbye?"
Bella's willingness to be turned surprises Tanya. Apparently the story she heard from one Edward Cullen was not accurate. This may actually go better than she expected, the Queen would be pleased with her update later.
"I'm sorry, I was misinformed."
Bella tilts her head, her eyebrows scrunching further they may leave wrinkle marks later.
"About?"
"I've been under the impression that you may resist or have hesitations about being turned into a vampire."
Then Tanya sees it for the first time; the sight of Bella Swan getting angry.
"I can assure you that about 50% of what Edward Cullen told you would have been a lie," she said in a low growl.
Tanya is taken aback by Bella's ability to identify her source of information. For a while now she has harboured some romantic feelings towards that boy and thus she often believes his words over the others, despite her sisters' warnings.
"I didn't break up with him, he did. From the beginning, I told him to change me, he refused."
Bella pinches the bridge of her nose in an attempt to calm down her anger and inhales deep breaths. Tanya maintains her silence, allowing the human to vent out her thoughts.
"Look, I know it will be painful having to say goodbye to my family and friends but I've always had a strong feeling that this life was chosen for me. Frankly I'm tired dealing with vague words and meaningless promises. So tell me right now, are you the one who's supposed to be my Maker? If yes, what's my timeline?"
Kate would so love Bella's feistiness!
Tanya composes herself and decides to really observe the young woman right in front of her. She can see the steely look in Bella's doe eyes, the confidence oozing out of her shaped and made mature by painful experiences. She knows it all too well. When any vampire who has enough senses looks at her and her sisters, they can see the same strength and pain behind their golden eyes. They're more alike than she'd like to admit.
And because of that, she decides to divulge a little bit more information that she's allowed.
"My coven and I have been entrusted to protect you from here on out. After you graduate, you will need to move to Denali to train with us. But no, we won't be the ones to turn you. I suspect you might have an inkling to who the vampire would be," Tanya said while trying to search for the truth in those brown eyes.
It's a few seconds before it dawns on Bella and with how transparent her face is, it's easy for Tanya to see that Bella has the answer.
"Has she made any contact with you?"
Bella's head and heart start to explode and clash at each other. It's like her heart is trying to tell her brain something but there's a wall that won't allow the two to find any harmony. They're at a war with each other. Her fingers run through her hair as she tries to massage her scalp and drive the incoming headache away.
"I - I think so. But I thought it was just a dream…" she trailed off, trying to put together the pieces.
It's the red-eyed vampire that's been living rent-free in her mind.
"You're in grave danger, Bella. Which is why my coven will take turns with the Cullens to ensure your safety here until you graduate. And until the threat to your life is eliminated, she cannot physically meet you yet. But she wants you to remember that whenever you need her, you can always find her in your dreams."
As if Tanya's words possess any magic, Bella immediately blacks out.
A/N: Heyyo! So sorry for my MIA. I promise this story will NOT die. But I will be super slow with the updates. Thanks for liking and staying tuned.