Chapter Text
Chapter 1 – Unbelievable
AN – This is a WIP. I give fair warning it may not be finished. I am a solid starter, but terrible at at closing. Minor updates done to better connect this to the new direction taken in later chapters. Also I write like an onion and add layers to each chapter as I go. I just gotta be different...
***
The whole coven had their doubts about the 'human pet' situation with the Cullens. After a brief phone conversation between Tanya and Carlisle, all the Denali coven knew was that a potential convert to their diet was being sent their direction. The details were sketchy at best. The gist was there had been an brief meeting between his family and some nomads, one of whom was interested in learning more about their chosen 'vegetarian' lifestyle. Carlisle had informed Tanya his name was Laurent, and due to conflicts with their human, his family was not the best suited for this introduction and requested help for Laurent.
Tanya had readily agreed to help her friends, but remained suspicious about the whole vibe of the lack of details regarding the conflicts and the resulting situation. Carlisle spoke in clipped tones, and unlike their usual phone chats, this one had barely lasted two minutes. He did not elaborate on what else was happening or talk about how his family was doing or even ask about hers. All inquiries for more information, an approximate ETA, or the status of the rest of the nomads was redirected or answered with another question. The phone call was terminated by Carlisle as soon as there was acknowledgement. Tanya had suspected unusual something was going on with the Cullens for a while due to recent changes in their communication patterns, but had no idea what, nor was provided the opportunity to ask during this latest phone call. When attempting to call back after being hung up on, there was only a operator disconnect message. Tanya frowned. This was considered extremely poor form. Tanya, as the Northwest Territory Ispán, was within her rights to press for information, but these were her friends so she had let the minor infraction of failing to report the referenced altercations. Tanya would be held accountable for any disturbances in her region. The Cullens were supposed to report these types of events within 24 hours not weeks later.
After passing her thoughts onto her clan in a meeting convened after the call, Eleazar confirmed her guess that Laurent being sent to them was likely only part of the whole situation. Eleazar had shook his head, and suggested they wait until Laurent arrives and garner information from him. There didn't seem to be any reason to rush to conclusions. The Denali clan agreed to wait to act further without more information. Tanya had wanted a clan agreement, as not taking action could result in punishment for all of them in failing to respond to a potential law violation within their territory. Everyone agreed there was minimal risk in waiting based on what information was available. However to ensure this was investigated, Tanya had Kate turn on monitoring for all the Cullen accounts. Kate confirmed all the accounts had been deactivated, but tracers had been set up to watch for any known alias accounts becoming active.
A few weeks later, an unknown male vampire showed up three hundred yards from the Denali lodge and stayed still. The clan felt confident this was who Carlisle had sent or not, so only Kate and Eleazar went out to do the meet and greet. After stepping out onto the front yard to put some distance between them and the house, they observed the unknown vampire with the dark toned skin, bare feet, ragged pants, fur coat, and dreadlocks. He matched the basic description provided by Carlisle. He immediately raised his hands once they stepped out of the house, and kept his posture relaxed.
“Good morning. My name is Laurent.” The dark skinned man with dreads kept holding up his hands after introducing himself. He only saw two vampires visually, but knew there were five based on scents marking the edges of their territory, and in the valley that presided over the coven's center. “I come in peace. Carlisle told me to find you if I was interested in trying a different way of living.”
Kate snorted a bit. “You do know we eat animals right? You don't appear to have been trying very hard.” Kate had noticed Laurent had taken his sweet time getting here, and his eyes were still solid red.
Laurent gritted his teeth and growled a little. He was extremely displeased at this unwelcome greeting. His hands dropped to his sides and curled in preparation of possibly needing to defend himself.
Eleazar shook his head a little in pretend exasperation at Kate's unhelpful hostility. As Laurent had not arrived immediately after the call, the coven had time to prepare and assign roles for this meeting. Kate had kicked off the meeting in full antagonistic form as the 'bad cop.' Eleazar modulated his voice to best fit the role of peacekeeper. “Welcome sir. I apologize for my coven mate, she gets a little excited sometimes. My name is Eleazar. If you have questions, I will do my best to offer answers.” Eleazar spread his hands out wide in a placating gesture and gestured to the front porch chairs. “Would you like to join me?”
“Fine.” Kate huffed and zipped over to a seat. She chose the one closest to the lodge entrance and flopped down with a dramatic sigh. No longer looking at either male, and choosing instead to read a book, Kate’s attitude was indifferent. Laurent huffed at the perceived rudeness from a female host to him, a male guest.
Eleazar shrugged his shoulders at Laurent, and gestured again as he slowly made his way to one of the other chairs and relaxed into it. Both Kate and Eleazar waited to see of Laurent would join them. Secretly both clan members were pleased with how off balance Laurent was at the moment. Kate sighed dramatically, and fidgeted to display her impatience, very comfortable with how this whole introduction was playing out. Kate loved playing the button pusher. Her and Eleazar had done this playoff each other many times, to trick many unsuspecting individual into revealing missing details.
Laurent had expected something closer to the Cullens' coven, and this was less welcoming despite his introduction. Laurent wondered for a moment what sort of introduction if any had been made for him by the head of that other coven. The rude female had not even had the courtesy to introduce herself. He decided that since she appeared to be so young, to ignore her as much as he could, and even turned his body away from her to face Eleazar more fully. Laurent believed Eleazar to be the elder in the greeting party, and the foolish female was obviously hardly a hundred with all her fidgeting.
Laurent made a small palm up sweeping motion, “I came today to find out more about your coven and lifestyle. One of my companions had a rough turn the last couple of weeks, so that is the reason for my delay. Eating is not my only concern. Are you willing to help me or not?” He grinned with lots of teeth at his own humor.
“Understandable.” Eleazar agreed. “Life does often challenge. So what would you like to know?”
“How can you stand it? I tried eating a moose a ways east of here, and it was like drinking muddy blood.” Laurent made a disgusted face.
Eleazar grimaced in agreement. “Animal type does make a difference. What they eat, how old, health, and other such details are all factors in flavor.”
“So some taste better than others? Huh. I suppose that make sense. Some humans taste better than others too. Emotions, age, and health do seem to influence human flavor. Certain emotions really enhance the blood flavor.” Laurent grinned as he placed his hands at his sides, and relaxed a little more in response to Eleazar’s non-threatening and sympathetic demeanor.
“I follow my nose. When I am not sure, that is the easiest way. If it smells better Laurent, then it will be better tasting too.” Eleazar offered up an easy tip with a minute quirk to his lips.
“Humans smell so good too. I will have to contemplate this for a bit. I am not sure how this will work. Humans smell immensely better than animals.”
“Just try out different animals until you find ones that work for you. Would you like some suggestions, and locations that are good to hunt in?”
Laurent nodded. “That would be most helpful. I thank you for your assistance.”
*
Over the next few days, Laurent and Eleazar hung out. Laurent got introduced to everyone and invited into the lodge. Kate and Laurent continued to verbally spar occasionally. Slowly his eyes ebbed towards gold. More importantly to the Denali clan though, was that Laurent was able to flush out the story of what happened when his companions ran into the Cullens.
The altercation between the covens had escalated to his maker, Victoria loosing her mate, James, when he continued to hunt the 'human pet' belonging to the Cullens. Laurent expressed his confusion, since they all insisted they only ate animals, so never understood why they had a human pet. Laurent admitted the situation with the Cullens escalated mostly due to James wanting to eat their pet, even when warned off. When asked further, Laurent stated Victoria had claimed to come to terms with this and headed off to Asia. Laurent also assured the Denali clan, that he had not attempted to hunt the Cullen pet. Too much trouble he assured them, plus he understood and respected that pets under their laws belong to someone and are considered property that can be defended without legal repercussions. Laurent knew from experience a few nomads who had been ended for taking from pets that did not belong to them. It turned out James could not resist, and yes the human had smelled good, but not worth dying for, as James did. Laurent and Victoria discovered too late that James had not followed the law or their advice, and were unable to stop James from dying at the hands of the Cullens. Laurent had not actually witnessed the death of James, but Victoria stated had felt it when her maker died. Laurent assured them Victoria had decided to head off to Asia anyway, and he had left her with some other friends of theirs in Bangkok.
The Denalis were careful not to share too much with the nomad, especially since Irina sensed he was not entirely forthcoming with his reasons for being here. None of the Denali clan spoke of powers or abilities or age with any specifics. Everyone except Eleazar worked hard to promote themselves as young vampires with lots of unnecessary human movements. Only Carmen and Eleazar spoke anything other than English. Laurent continued to address Eleazar as if he was the coven leader, and everyone felt the trick of keeping truths hidden to be successful.
After hanging out for a few days, Laurent stated he wanted to travel and try out other wildlife. Eleazar suggested several hunting grounds all over the world for him. Laurent gave thanks, and took off for parts unknown. The clan waited for a few hours to plan, as Carmen scouted the area to ensure that Laurent had left.
Everyone came together in the lodge to discuss what to do about the ‘human pet’ situation. The Cullens were obviously in a dangerous situation for such a young coven. No Denali had been able to reach any of the Cullens since that last phone call asking for help for Laurent. The communication breakdown had been noticed, and traced back until shortly before Laurent had shown up. No one from the Cullen coven could be reached to validate any of the details presented. The Denali clan was a bit worried since this was unusual. Despite the killing of James being within their rights, Victoria was within her rights to retaliate. Even the email addresses and alternate contact numbers were no longer valid. The Cullens had went dark, and even monitoring known communication accounts revealed nothing except they weren't being used anymore.
“There is more to this than what we have been told. My friend Carlisle has never had a human pet or any interest in having one. I am very worried about my friends. Were they older or living differently this having a human pet would be of no concern, but this does not make any sense. ” Eleazar insisted. “Plus I am shocked my friend would forget the consequences of killing another vampire’s mate, even over a pet that response will have consequences. We could have the makings of a regional blood bath. Clans have went to war for less in the past. Victoria may be detained and distracted at the moment, but for how long? It is more likely support is being gathered.” Eleazar clenched his hands together, and gave a small sniff to express both his frustration and dismay.
Tanya soothed, “Calm down my friend. I am well aware the information does not add up, and I agree with your assessment. I am very worried about the current status of our friends. Laurent was most likely here to gather information for his maker and to make us aware of the seriousness of the offenses. It is known our clan is the oldest in the region, and while he was rather primitive, the heads up is appreciated. I have an approach plan for us already. It will require some discomfort on our part, but I am afraid of what might have already have happened.” Tanya stood and paced a bit. “As we can not get the information remotely, and therefore assess what is happening, I think it is time we paid our cousins a visit.”
Tanya glanced at Irina and Kate. “Here is the plan. As this could be a potentially hostile situation we are wandering into, I want you two to scout and run reconnaissance. Do not announce your presence. In fact do your best to remain hidden until we can assess what the situation is with our friends, and their pet. Human pets have traditionally been bones of contention amongst vampires so perhaps there are others who also wanted our cousins’ pet for themselves. It is likely there are additional truths we should know, therefore I want a full report on the area, animal counts, human deaths, news reports, rumors of sightings, the current status of the shifter tribe, and all the other details. We need diligence in this matter, even though this may risk some friendship feelings. I must remind you, we will be held accountable first for anything that violates our laws.
I will be reaching out to Sulpicia to notify her we are opening an investigation. This should buy us some time, and Athenodora will appreciate the warning about this potentially hazardous situation. I will also be taking a detour to visit the Whitlocks, they should know what is happening in the Southwest Territory without having to engage Maria. Peter may even have a way to find out where Jasper is, and since Maria is still pissed I shut down her fun with the Blood Wars, I promise to have the Whitlocks pass on the warnings about the regional situation. These types of heated vendettas have a way of spreading.
Carmen and Eleazar will stay here for a while longer in case Laurent returns unexpectedly. They will also reach out to other territory resources to help track down the Cullens. Eleazar will be contacting the Spain liaison, and Carmen I need you to follow up with your South American contacts. Find out if they are in Europe or maybe that island Carlisle bought for Carmen a ways back. Make sure everyone takes a satellite phone and a human kit for yourself. We are not taking any chances. That way we will be able to maintain communications, and blend in much better if needed. Plan to meet up at the cabin near Victoria in one week. Any questions so far?” Tanya looked confidently at her coven.
Directing her attention specifically to Kate and Irina, Tanya requested gently “You will need to part from your mate for a few days, is that acceptable? Please assure me that this plan is alright for you two.” Tanya met Irina’s eyes as she offered, “Otherwise I can have Eleazar and Carmen go visit the Whitlocks, but I was hoping they would have the freedom to follow up on any leads as a team, while we focus our efforts on our territory. Peter and Ann reported from Denver less than a month ago so should be in that vicinity.”
Irina squeezed her mate’s hand briefly before standing, and walking right up to Tanya, pulling her into a hug to convey comfort and companionship. “Csillagom, do not trouble yourself so. We will be fine for that short of time. But your suggestion to find the Cullens is a good one. For now let us use your plan. Kate and I will scout out the situation and also check on our holdings we have hidden there. I feel pleased that you would entrust us with such an important part of your strategy.” Irina loosed her hold and reached to cup Tanya’s cheek. Tanya was slightly taller, but at the moment with body positioning seemed smaller than Irina. Irina whispered intimately, “I will take good care of our mate. I trust you as well. I know we do not separate often, but everything will be fine. We're experienced, and not newborns.” Irina let go slowly, and stepped back to join hands with Kate once again.
Tanya held up her hand, “One more thing before I forget. Emergency conditions apply. Eat when you need to. Do not worry if it is outside our usual diet, just be careful in choosing. We are moving into a more populated area, so you all have permission to act on necessity.” Tanya grinned maliciously, “There is nothing wrong with thinning the herd a bit to protect the humans we like, or taking care of other needs. Please be careful to not disturb the balance. Seattle, Vancouver, Victoria, and Port Angeles are nearby hunting grounds to use for those needs. We are heading into a potentially hostile situation, a more human filled diet is a necessity to ensure we are at full strength especially as we will be separated intermittently. Finally do not hesitate to use the emergency supplies stashed at any of our hideouts. Remember: practical people survive.”
Everyone in the clan came together in a huddle at Tanya’s wordless gesture with her hands toward herself. The silence was heavy with unspoken emotion for a few moments. They all put their heads together as one. Tanya whispered with an emotionally roughened voice into the small space between all of them, “Akinek vaj van a a fején ne menjen a napra. Be smart. Keep your heads. Remain vigilant.” All the Denali coven members hugged each other tighter for a few moments again with heavy emotions.
Everyone nodded silently as hand holds eased, and they dispersed with mere whispers of air. Tanya grabbed her phone and started making some calls to the court, as she moved into her office. Her instincts were screaming caution, so hoped she had done a good enough job at conveying that to her clan, especially her mates.