by Jessica Snow
"Actually, Europe came to me," Akiko replied. "As a young child, my father knew that despite his pride in being a Japanese Lycan, English would be the dominant language of commerce and Lycan Gatherings for the future. Since he hated Americans, I’m sorry to say, he hired and brought in the finest in English language education from Great Britain to teach my brother and I. Our instructors drilled us for two hours a day, five days a week from the age of four, and when I became a junior high school student, he paid for tutors to not only continue to instruct us on English but also for half of our regular education to take place in English."
"I see. There is much I need to learn about you, I think." Keith opened the door and led Akiko inside. “Do you have any more bags than just that backpack?"
"My assistant will be arriving tomorrow early. They will be bringing the rest of my belongings. Don’t worry, though, I packed light, only two suitcases. After seeing how the rest of the family was at Lockwood Manor, I relish the chance to let my hair down some."
"I see. I had noticed that when you are acting as Alpha Female of Clan Thornblood, you tend to be much more dressed up. Very elegant, and a little bit Gothic. I had my tailor create some suits that would fit the motif, hopefully, a blend of traditional Lockwood and Thornblood styles."
"You didn't need to do that, but I appreciate the gesture," Akiko said. "Part of it was because Nioclas was very into the whole Lycan Gothic history. I think part of him actually enjoyed being called a werewolf. After a while, if I wasn't dressed in such a manner for official duties, I just started to feel underdressed."
Keith reached the bottom of the stairwell and punched in his security code. "Remind me to get you a personal code for the door. It's solid core steel, quite an effective form of security I think. If you have a personal code you wish to use, we can get you one tomorrow morning. I let Kimberly take care of all that stuff.”
"Oh? Is she busy tonight?" Akiko asked, stepping into the penthouse. She stopped, taking in the large space with natural tones. "I'm impressed, Keith. I like the natural feel of the decoration and everything. It's a true sanctuary from the city surrounding you."
"Thank you. As for Kimberly, she and Edward are working on arranging her quarters on the floor below us. They’ve decided to paint the main living room themselves, funnily enough. So while we're going to have a lot of workers in here after this Gathering, she insists on doing some stuff herself. Since those quarters are going to be for you as well starting tomorrow, she wanted to make sure the paint was finished and dry. I think it’s a bit of a pride thing, you know."
Keith led Akiko to the central sofa and took her bag. "I'm going to put this in your room for tonight. It's my guest room right now, but it’ll be the baby's room. We haven't moved the bed out yet, though, so you should be able to sleep comfortably."
Akiko started to object, and Keith raised his hand, cutting her off. "No, it's not a problem. Really. You’ll be treated with the respect you deserve. I know it's a bit strange, but I hope it works out. Besides, I'm sure you're going to be doing just as much juggling when we visit Thornblood Hall. Wait here, I'll check on Melanie. She was taking a shower when you said you were coming in for a landing."
Akiko nodded and sank back into the sofa. Keith disappeared, leaving her to her thoughts for a moment. She shook her head as she thought of the way Keith was compared to Nioclas. If Keith had visited Clan Thornblood when Nioclas was alive, even if he was a close ally, Nioclas would have greeted him formally, with a full compliment of servants and a certain sense of separation. In all honesty, it was this formality that had allowed Akiko's father to allow her to leave her Clan to join a non-Japanese Clan, regardless of the love the couple shared.
With Keith it was different. While at Lockwood Manor he had carried himself with a certain sense of formality that was expected of any Clan Alpha, he did it with a sense of debonair informality that Nioclas could never have pulled off. Here, in his private home, he was even more informal, but at the same time, his informality wasn't offensive, but rather welcoming. She truly felt like Keith was taking steps to bring her into his family, and not treat their joining (both of them had agreed not to refer to it as a Mating in private, out of respect for the true sanctity and closeness of the act) as just a political maneuver on their parts.
Akiko was so deep in thought, she was surprised when Melanie came out, her hair still damp, dressed in a pretty smock and pants that were probably the most formal housewear she could still fit into. "Akiko, I apologize about not being out earlier," she said, coming around. "Unfortunately, getting buttons done is a lot harder right now. Keith actually found me in the bathroom with a cramp in my shoulder trying to get the last buttons on this stupid thing done. Honestly, what idiot puts buttons on the back of a pregnant woman's clothing?"
"You didn’t have to do that for me," Akiko said, standing and coming to clasp hands with Melanie. She was surprised when the shorter woman pulled her into an awkward hug, her stomach coming in between them.
"You're my Sister now, remember?" Melanie said. "Tomorrow is plenty of time for Lady this and Lady that and measured looks. I'd rather spend the rest of the evening with the woman who showed me that she loves maple syrup so much just a week ago."
Akiko returned the hug, careful not to squeeze too tightly. "All right. Then may I ask, why’d you feel the need to cram yourself into that outfit?"
"Because the only other things I have to wear around the house are sweat pants, and that I refuse to do.” Melanie sighed and rubbed her belly. "He's growing like a weed. Seriously, my waist is a whole inch larger than it was just last week."
Akiko chuckled and led Melanie over to the sofa and helped her down. "I understand, I was much the same way, even if I am taller. I have an idea, give me a minute."
Getting on her cell phone, Akiko called a phone number and spoke in Japanese for two minutes, before nodding to herself and hanging up. She tapped away at the screen for another minute before putting the phone away. "Excellent. You’ll have it by the day after tomorrow."
“Have what?" Melanie asked curiously. "And if you have a chance, do you think you could teach me some Japanese? I've always found it a beautiful language."
“Of course, I’d be honored. I was talking to a tailor I know in Los Angeles. He's the son of Japanese immigrants and is one of the best craftsmen in North America. He stocks a selection of kimonos that he handmade in the old style. I asked him to send over two of them, stock sizes unfortunately since he can't get precise measurements, but one in a casual, and one in semi-formal style. I think you’ll love them, they’re very comfortable and stylish. Best of all, they adjust because of the overlapping front. You can wear it all the way until you have your son."
Melanie's hand came to her chest, and she smiled deeply before bowing her head. “Thank you. I’ll wear it with pride. I don't know about wearing it at the Gathering, though, we’ll see.”
Akiko tilted her head in thanks. “Oh, a little secret, one that I used when I was pregnant. If you want, take a pair of shorts or knee length pants and you can wear them underneath comfortably. That way you don't feel like you’re walking around in a robe all day."
Melanie leaned back and laughed, until the baby kicked, hard, and she groaned. "Okay, okay. No more shaking, I got it."
Chapter 42
"I'd like to thank every Clan in attendance. I know that for many of you, things are in a state of turmoil. As before, at the last meeting of the ad hoc Council that adjourned the Gathering, I would like to pledge the support of both Clan Lockwood and Clan Thornblood towards making sure that we keep the peace within our Clans and this Council. However, tomorrow is the time for business to begin. Tonight, please relax, enjoy, and the drinks and food are on me."
Keith stepped away from the small podium at the front of the conference room to polite applause. He was wearing the same black organic silk tuxedo he had worn as Alpha of the Lockwoods, however in a nod to his status as Alpha of the Thornbloods, his pocket square was
blood red, while he had foregone a vest to instead wear an emerald green tie. It was a bit disconcerting for him, but the imagery was clear, and the message just as much so.
How'd I do? he asked Melanie over their Link. I felt like an idiot.
Not at all. I thought you looked very dashing. And I'm already hearing the chatter. We really knocked some of these people for a loop when you came out as Alpha of both Clans.
Keith smirked and looked around the room, seeing Melanie, the shortest adult in the room, standing next to Edward, who was the tallest man in the room, and most definitely the largest. Enjoying your escorting duties?
Just paying it forward, like Kimberly and Valeria did for me, Melanie said. Besides, with this giant next to me, nobody is going to be stupid enough to be as rude as Morrigan was last time.
Let's just hope things go more smoothly overall.
For sure. Now, go do your thing. I'll be fine with Edward, and if you need to find me, well, I won't be that hard to find. Look for the round woman next to the giant.
Keith felt two sets of laughter and knew that Kimberly had been listening in. Glancing over, he saw his sister over in the corner of the room, in a group who were talking to one of the youngest representatives in the room, the brand new Alpha Female of Clan Talbot after her mother had been killed in the last attack. Keith looked around the room and saw her father, taking a drink from the refreshment table that had been set up on the side of the room. He made his way over, nodding to everyone he passed.
"Lord Talbot," Keith said as he nodded, taking a flute of ginger ale. The table had been set up with clearly marked non-alcoholic beverages, not only for Melanie but for the number of representatives that were underage. "Your daughter looks very mature for her first trip to the Gathering."
"Thank you, Lord Lockwood," Talbot replied. "While I know it’s irregular for such a young woman to act as Alpha Female, I felt it was good training for her eventual role, either in my Clan or in her Mate's."
"A wise decision. Tell me, are your quarters sufficient? I know that the Towers are not quite the same as the Manor, and to be honest, I've been worried all day."
Talbot took a sip of his own drink, setting it aside. "You and your Clan have done an admirable job. I take it that you've rented out hotel rooms around the city for the Clan Lockwood members we've displaced for the next few days?"
Keith nodded. "Actually, a combination of things. About half of the rooms were from Clan members who decided to take vacations. Part of that was I agreed to pay for Disneyland tickets for any of the children who wanted to go. But yes, some of the members are doubling up or taking hotel rooms. Also, I opened the Manor to those who wished to get away there as well."
"Uh oh, house party while the parents are away," Talbot joked, smiling slightly. "I'd hate to see your cleaning bill for that one."
Keith laughed and shook his head. "You know hosting the Gathering is always an expensive business. But I wouldn't have it any other way. It gives me a chance to look friends like you in the eye and shake hands, something we rarely get to do."
Talbot nodded, then looked over to his daughter. "Your sister seems to be doing a fine job teaching her about Gathering politics."
"She's not the only one. If we're not careful, your daughter is going to be running rings around us in that field by the time these few days are over. How old is she now, twelve?"
"Eleven, actually. She turns twelve in July," Talbot replied. He finished his drink and set the glass on the table. "Lord Lockwood, can I speak directly with you?"
"Of course," Keith said, the two of them walking away from the table and around the small knots of people. It was easy to see where allies and enemies were, along with the suddenly changed groups who were still unsure of the others due to the shakeup that the Hunter attack at the last Gathering had caused. "What can I do for you?"
"There is a rumor going around that you wish to step up your attacks on the silberjagger," Talbot said. "That after your rescue mission, you plan on taking the fight further. Are you sure about this plan of yours?"
"I am, but I will speak on it tomorrow. As you know, I can’t propose anything during tomorrow's business, only report and speak my mind."
Talbot snorted with a smirk. "Yes, because we know that both Lady Thornblood and Lady Lockwood would disagree with anything that you speak. Come on, Lord Lockwood. While I understand the role you took and congratulate you for your making something out of a disaster, you hold a very powerful position despite not voting."
Keith smiled tightly, controlling his temper. "You'd be surprised, Lord Talbot. If you knew Kimberly and Akiko as well as I do, you'd know they are very independent women, and even I may be surprised during the meetings tomorrow by their actions."
"I look forward to seeing that, if only for your reaction," Talbot replied. "But let me finish, so as to not prevent us from speaking with others. Clan Talbot is not in favor of war at this time. First of all, my Clan is in no position to give people for a war. I'm a first generation Alpha, after my father split his territory rather than have his sons fight for Alpha status."
Keith remembered, thinking of what had transpired twenty years prior. Clan Llanwelly had been one of the most powerful in the Pacific Northwest. Their Alpha had not just two but three Mates, Mating two of them within days of each other. The Mating had resulted in two boys being born on the same day, again within minutes of one another. The two boys had been raised as equals, even though they had different mothers. When he was ready to retire, instead of deciding which of his sons was to be Alpha, he had split his territory in two, creating Clan Talbot and Clan Conliffe. While not small, neither Clan was the power player that Llanwelly had been, mainly because the two Clans rarely agreed on anything.
“I’m familiar with your Clan's history, Lord Talbot. Let me say I’m not asking anyone to sacrifice more than they are willing. However, when you hear me speak tomorrow, you may change your mind on the need for unified action. Now, if you'd please excuse me, I see my Mate is looking like she needs some refreshment."
"Of course. And congratulations, I've heard a boy?"
Keith smiled and nodded. "Yes, I'm very excited. Thank you for your honesty, Lord Talbot. Have a pleasant party."
You know I didn't need any drinks.
Keith made his way over to the table and grabbed a glass of fruit juice, bringing it towards Melanie and Edward. I know, but I needed a good excuse for breaking off the conversation. I understand the man lost his Mate, but if I had let him keep going, he would have talked my ear off. No thanks. By the way, have you seen Akiko?
She's riding herd on the old Thornblood allies, and doing quite a good job of integrating them. I just saw the Mac Tire Alpha Male shaking hands with some man that Akiko had introduced him to. You should have quite the coalition by the time tomorrow's business kicks off.
Keith followed Melanie's gentle prodding over their Link, and saw Akiko speaking with another group. Keith reflected that with her semi-independent status, she and Kimberly were able to bridge gaps they hadn't been able to before. With proposal and voting rights for Gathering business, they were equal in power to any Alpha Male, while at the same time were familiar with the behind the scenes maneuvers. It was an unexpected bonus, and one he knew he would have to use in order to gather the Clans together in a unified group. He’d need it to truly bring war to the silberjagger.
Bringing Melanie her juice, he clapped Edward on his shoulder. The gigantic Aklark looked uncomfortable in his suit, which was black like Keith's, however, his shirt was of a green silk to reflect his status as Kimberly's Mate. While technically he had no official status, nobody was going to argue with the giant. "How's the party going for you, Edward?"
"More like the sort of function my father would be more comfortable with than me, but so far Melanie has done a good job of steering me clear of any major mistakes. I could go for a good hamburger, though."
Keith chuckled and gave Melanie a kiss on her cheek. "We all could. But co
uld you imagine what a room with this many Lycans, you and Melanie would look like if we really got down to eating? There'd be vegetables, snippets of beef and sinew flying everywhere. I'd probably need to have someone clean ketchup off the light fixtures tomorrow."
"True. How's the politicking?" Edward asked, looking around. “I’ll be honest, I've kept up more of the silent protector type than speaking. I just haven't had enough time to learn about things yet."
"Don't worry, I was the same way last time," Melanie said. "Trust me when I say I'm barely understanding things myself. Thankfully Kimberly and Akiko are handling their end so well. I haven't even had any dirty looks at all tonight."
"I have," Edward said, "but I expected it. Nobody has been willing to say anything, though. I guess I'm just that intimidating."
You? Don't forget, they know that if they offend you, they have to deal with me, Kimberly said to all three of them over their Link. While Keith and Melanie couldn't hear Edward yet, Kimberly could Link with all three of them, and waved from her side of the room. Edward smiled back and waved, blushing.
"My Mate is a bad-ass," he said shyly. "That's kind of cool."
"Oh, you're pretty bad-ass yourself, big man," Melanie said, patting his arm. "But yeah, she is pretty cool."
"Okay, well, I'm off to see how Akiko is doing. I'll see you two later?" Keith said. "That is unless you'd like to join me?"
Edward shook his head. "No, that's okay. She's a fine person, but I'm starving, and I think I just smelled the help bringing out Swedish meatballs. I'm going to see if I can sneak a platter or two in before everyone starts staring."
"And you know how pregnant women are with their appetites," Melanie said, giving Keith a kiss on the cheek. "Go on, we're fine. Trust me, I'm listening in, and if you really need me, I'll be there."
Melanie and Edward walked over to the table, where Edward's nose was correct. Fresh platters of appetizers had been laid out, and Edward quickly snatched a shallow bowl to contain his pickings. "I know I come off as a bit of a rube doing it this way, but I wasn't able to eat at lunch, I was so nervous," Edward said, using a long bamboo skewer to slide three meatballs at once into his mouth. He looked at one of the trays, curious. "Say, what is this?"
