One day at a time

by Hisuiko

How do you cope when all you feel are emotions - everyones emotions? What do you do when it gets too much? Who do you turn to when it is you who hurts? Welcome to my life. AU Acknowledgements to IdreamofEddy, who created "God of War" and Peter's gift, and to Jazzella, who's writing inspired my Jasper.

10. Marcus comes to Forks

A/N My thanks, as always, to my Creative beta and pre-reader Prettyflour. As much as I wish differently, SM owns Twilight and I am just playing with them.

Previously: We have just left Peter, following a tense telephone conversation with the Major, meeting up with Garrett and heading to the airport to meet up with Marcus Volturi and his guard.

Volturi Airstrip

Ppov

In the shadows of the metal grey hangers, waiting for the arrival of the Volturi, Garrett and I stand, leaning casually against the wall. "Let's add to the fun," Garrett comments, a brief look of concentration crossing his face, "There, I've masked our scents; would you like me to swing around behind Demitri and whoever is partnering him?"

I laugh quietly, "Why not, Demi knows you are with me, so should expect something like this – and if he doesn't, it will give him the wake-up call needed." Garrett gives me a nod and slips away deeper into the shadows, 'Damn,' I think to myself, 'I have got to polish up my own Garrett spotting skills' as my eyes desperately try and trace his movements.

The tyres of a car crunch over the tarmac towards the hanger I am leaning against; I slip my shirt off and tie it round my waist, baring my arms so the guards will know what is approaching them. I shake my head, wondering how they will react when they spot me. The black stretch SUV pulls to a halt, between the airplane and the hanger, where I am standing. The guards empty from the vehicle, surrounding it, glancing around and then giving an all clear call. I shake my head in anger as I note to myself, 'Bloody poor – the Major would have our necks for such sloppy work'. Demitri climbs out of the car, his eyes sweeping the area and breathing deeply. His eyes lock briefly on my position, fury showing briefly on his face, until he pulls up his stone-like duty mask. Felix is next, his eyes sweeping the area, a frown crosses his face, he glances at Demi questioningly, who lets him know he is aware. I smile, Felix's guard is up, and he scans the rest of the area, looking for any other concerns and then focuses back on me.

Demi sticks his head into the car, "Master," his tone of voice sharp, I can hear him struggle with his temper, I grin. I will make the guard pay for letting Demitri down. I dig deep within me, bringing to the forefront the Major's Captain within me. I allow my smile to spread; my eyes darken slightly, as I note the appearance of Marcus, standing between Demitri and Felix. My eyes meet with Demitri's, his eyes flashing black with his fury and spite, giving me the go ahead I need.

I push away from the wall, not attempting to smother my sounds. I saunter over towards Marcus, my awareness covering all the guard, even Demitri now, as his fury heightens even further. The four other guards step forward creating a defensive line in front of Marcus. Felix glances at Demitri, noting the fury on his face as he glares at the other guard and then his eyes tighten as he notices the eye flicker of a command aimed at myself. Felix watches closely as I continue to cross the tarmac, taking in the scars on my arms and my neck. Felix slips forward slightly, putting himself in front of Marcus. I feel satisfied; at least Felix is acting as I would. I allow the Captain to surface fully, feeling myself open up to my war experiences and I start to move. I know the two small guards, Jane, the pain giver, I snort to myself… I know pain, I've felt pain, and she doesn't concern me. Then there is Alec the sense remover, he is my first target. The other pair, unknown to me, but I will remove them after Alec, let Jane know fear, let her know uncertainty…

I start to move; I feint towards Marcus's directly and then take down Alec, snapping at his neck with his arms pulled behind his back. A brief fire burns through me, I breathe deeply and shrug it off, it is nothing compared to my Sire's pain. Alec then flies through the air as I throw him into Jane. Then I take down the other pair, spinning them and almost pulling their arms off and I hold them face to tarmac, snapping at their necks. Jane charges at me from behind. I release my two victims, and turn into her attack, grabbing her and holding her against me, neck to my mouth. "Don't you try it Jane," I snarl, "your gift is nothing compared to my Sire!"

I hear a muffled expletive from Alec, and I look up at a snarling Felix, Marcus' hand on his shoulder. Demitri's face finally no longer in fury, as he commands, "Stand down." I put Jane down maintaining a hold on her, as Demitri growls out, "You have been privileged to be schooled by Captain Whitlock, you are lucky he didn't rip you to pieces for allowing Master Marcus to enter a compromised situation." Demitri looks at me, "Please call Garrett off, Captain" with a wry smile.

I smile back at Demitri, releasing Jane from my grasp with a nod, "Garrett, playtime is over." There is a slight movement behind Felix as Garrett steps out of the shadow of the car.

"Oh Captain…"he whines jokingly, as Felix jumps spinning around to face him and hisses.

Demitri speaks up, "Garrett, did you need to?" a sound of exasperation in his voice.

"I'm sorry Felix," Garrett mutters, looking down grinning and raising a cheeky eyebrow at me.

Garrett returns to my side as Demitri walks over and claps me on the shoulder, leaning in "Thank you for doing that – it was just what I needed, I am sorry for Jane's attack."

A small smile graces my face as I quietly reply "No worries, it is nothing compared to the Major." I pull myself up straight, replacing my shirt and smartening myself up as I approach Marcus, bowing in respect to my elder, "May I address the guard, Master Marcus?"

He smiles, "Of course Captain Whitlock, any improvements you can suggest would be appreciated."

I walk over to Jane and Alec, "Good work the pair of you – but you both need to polish up your defensive work, you rely on your gifts too much!"

Alec nods, "Thank you Captain, you went lightly on me, I will work on it."

Jane looks up to me, "How did…I've never…"

I smile gently at her, and quietly whisper so only Alec and herself hear, "Jane, My sire is the Major, remember your teachings about him, I am sure Master Marcus will remind you about it, if you want."

Her eyes widen, her voice drops to a whisper, "I remember…" touching my arm briefly, empathy showing in her eyes, and then looks down.

"Calib!" I bark as I march over to him, "Keep working at your defences, right forearm needs to block stronger", and then I glare at Antonio and growl out,"Drop the fluctuating moods, if you step anywhere near my Sire like that he will destroy you."

"Your Sire?" Antonio stutters.

I roll my eyes and snarl, "Major Jasper Whitlock, I KNOW you have heard of him." His face blanches.

I shake my head at Antonio, "Oh Demitri, where did you find him?" I ask in despair, as I head over to climb the steps up to the airplane. I make my way into lounge area of the private plane, admiring the space allowing for groups to sit and talk. Marcus waves me over, indicating for me to sit with him.

I settled down in my chair opposite Marcus and Demitri, Garrett sitting next to me. Once we were in the air, Marcus started briefing the guard. "Right, we are visiting the Cullen Coven so I can assess the coven members and to spend time with my old friend, Carlisle," he glances at me, and then continues.

"This coven holds seven vampires, three of which are gifted. Edward, a mind reader who can read over distance – so as soon as we enter Washington State, you will start blocking tactics, Alice, a seer whom is close to the final gifted member of the coven, Jasper. There will also be a human female present, which is Edwards's girlfriend, and protected by Jasper Cullen, better known to the world as Major Jasper Whitlock."

Various exclamations are muttered under the guard's breath. Marcus looks round making eye contact with each of his guard; "I am glad you understand the seriousness of the situation now – You will treat the human as if she is my equal. If for any reason she is threatened Peter and Garrett will assist the Major in protecting her, Felix will be my personal guard, if I am in the room, and Demitri will direct your actions. Do not hold extended eye contact with her, do NOT try your gifts out on her, she is under the Major's personal protection, he has already destroyed to protect her, I would rather take you all back with me…" Marcus pauses, looking into each of the team's eyes, making certain of their understanding; "Anything to add, Peter?"

"Thank you Marcus." I look at the guard, waiting for their attention to focus on me. "A forewarning about the Major: If he slips into a broad Texan accent that is the only warning that the Major is getting pissed. If I command you to 'submit' – Demitri will take soul guard of Marcus, if he is present, the rest of you assume submissive stature. Do not make sudden movements, I can't guarantee to be able to stop the Major, as Marcus knows." I nod to Demitri, and then continue.

"Remember, Jasper Cullen's past is not known by the family, they just believe he was a foot soldier in Maria's army, so no use of the title'Major' in connection with him. Any questions?" I look round the room, waiting for the questions to start.

I see each of the guard processing the information Marcus and I have given them, and then a voice speaks out. "Who is the girl? Why is the Major protecting her?" Alec asks.

I nod, pleased that they picked up the missing information. "Alec, she is a friend of the Cullen family, girlfriend to Edward, and she is also Edward's singer. The Major has laid claim on her as his protected human, which Master Marcus has ratified – The Major sees her strength, her potential, I would advise not querying it in his hearing. Are there any more questions?"

"What should we do if bloodlust becomes a problem? What if she cuts herself or something?" Antonio asks timidly.

I close my eyes briefly and sigh. "We will all be hunting once we land; we will not risk her life by being the slightest bit thirsty when entering my Sire's vicinity." I exchange glances with Marcus, "If any of you starts to lose control in the household due to thirst, my Sire will come down on you like a ton of bricks, because I guarantee, any burn to the throat you may feel, he will be feeling too. I suggest you immediately leave the house, and concentrate of your remorse. I hope that will save you."

I trade glances with Garrett. "IF, for some reason, Isabella cuts herself…" I shake my head and then rest my forehead on my fist, it would be so typical of our little danger magnet. "Instantly stop breathing, if the scent bothers you, remove yourself from the house. Carlisle will take care of Isabella, the Major will most probably be still, focused, possibly glaring at Edward. DO NOT, for any reason, distract the Major. He will be controlling everyone's bloodlust. If you are able to assist, watch Edwards's eyes, if he starts losing control, get him out of the house. Demitri, Garrett and I will be watching my Sire, if he loses it, we know what to do. Marcus and Felix just keep an eye on everyone else and act as necessary."

"Demitri and Garrett: I will be calling the Major, Sire; I suggest you use the name Jasper, with deepest respect in your tone of voice. The only voices he should hear apart from ours would be Marcus', Carlisle's, and Bella's should she speak." I glance at them both, watching for their understanding, and then continue. "I will be the only person to get between Jasper and Bella, if he permits it, until he gives Carlisle permission to approach. He may not." I shrug, knowing how he can be.

I draw myself up fully, allowing my seriousness to be noted, "If my Sire decides he will heal Bella, do not interfere. I will assist him, I will get him to give me his bloodlust." I hear exclamations from the younger guards, and shoot a glare at them. "If I ask you to hold me, use full restraining holds, and mean it, because he will be giving me everyone's bloodlust." I pause letting it sink in. "Yes, I said everyone's; the first thing he will do if she bleeds is pull all the bloodlust into himself. He won't allow the risk." I look at Alec, and hold eye contact as I continue. "I should be able to handle it, but otherwise, get me out of the house, and if necessary, use Alec's gift to incapacitate me. Got it?" A chorus of "yes" fills the cabin.

The rest of the flight passes with easy, the occasional questions about the Southern War, about the Major, but it passes quickly enough. We head out to the waiting vehicles, a pair of black SUV's, with the obligatory tinted windows, Calib driving rear car, Demitri the front. Garrett and I climb in with Marcus, as I am struck with the 'knowledge' that Edward is going to be unhappy with our presence. I shrug my shoulders, and sigh. "Edward isn't going to be too impressed with our appearance. He especially hates when I visit."

Marcus laughs, "Well, let's make your appearance a surprise for Jasper then? Perhaps I could be returning two hitchhikers? Garrett could assist by cleaning your scents from us?"

I laugh heartily, "I love the idea! Just need to keep us both out of your heads for long enough then."

The drive flies by and suddenly Demitri is turning into the hidden drive, I mouth to Marcus, "Everyone's home!" with a mischievous look on my face. As we pull into the open area next to the garage, we can hear curious voices from the house.

"Who's that Edward?" Jasper's voice rings out.

"Humph, they are all blocking me, eight males one female," concern lacing Edwards's voice. "Come love, stand next to me." I snort quietly to myself, shaking my head.

Jasper speaks up using his clipped tones from the war, "Both of you, y'all stand behind me," he orders, for that is what it was, no question about it, his commanding tone sounding guarded, concerned.

Marcus' eyes meet mine, mouthing "interesting." I raise my eyebrows and grin, keeping my emotions tightly controlled, not wanting to give the game away too early.

Demitri opens Marcus' door, signalling for us to wait inside. "Antonio and Calib, wait until called."

A surprised gasp from inside, "I know that voice!" Carlisle announces to the room. The front door opens, a joyful Carlisle appears and Esme following, looking to see who it could be.

JPOV

Apprehension, determination, duty, honour, a brief flash of an ancient pain, seems familiar to me, "Why is it familiar Major?" I demand.

"Not right now Jay" I feel my senses being stretched out, feeling the owner of the pain, examining it and then dancing lightly over the others, pausing briefly over a protective duty bound individual and then over a honour filled but emotionally controlled man. Edward tells Bella to stand next to him, the Major growls at Edward from within me, "Both of you, y'all stand behind me" we order. Our concern about those outside, overruling our concern for staying hidden from the family, "Don't be worryin' about the Cullen's, I doubt I will have to interfere much."

A burst of surprise from Carlisle, "I know that voice!" Carlisle announces to the room. He steps forward quickly, joy and delight filling him, as he opens the door. "Marcus! What a pleasure, come in, come in. Welcome old friend!" Carlisle's elation at seeing Marcus fills the room; as he pulls him into an enthusiastic hug touching cheeks either side. I grin at the uncharacteristic display by Carlisle, as he releases a smiling Marcus and steps back, abashed at his behaviour.

"Dear Carlisle, what a pleasure it is to be here! Let me introduce my guard." He turns slightly, towards a familiar figure, a smile spreads over my face, "You remember Demitri and Felix?" and then he indicates to two smaller cloaked figures, "and this is Jane and Alec."

Demitri steps forward and shakes Carlisle's hand, "Looking good as ever Carlisle!" before stepping back into position, Felix nodding in respect to Carlisle.

Jane and Alec remove their hoods, and smile up at Carlisle, "Nice to finally meet you Carlisle!" they say together.

Carlisle smiles at the party, "I heard you left the others outside?"

Marcus smiled and a touch of mischievousness runs through him briefly, "Yes, for the moment – didn't want to overcrowd you all at once."

Carlisle laughed, "I know what you mean," he glanced at me momentarily; I nodded with a smile, letting him know I am happy so far. "Let me introduce my family - My wife and mate, Esme." Marcus takes her hand and kisses it, happiness flowing from him as he glances between them. Ah! his gift at work - must be looking at their bond. Sadness runs through me briefly, wondering what he will see when he looks at me. "My son Emmett, and Rosalie, his wife and mate" Marcus nods at them both, a happy smile gracing his face once more. "Alice, my daughter."

Marcus greets her with a kiss on her hand, "Such a happy girl!" He glances briefly between Alice and me, a slight sadness before he visibly shakes himself.

Carlisle walks over towards me, indicating me with his arm, "My son, Jasper." I am hit with happiness, friendship and deep respect, as Marcus enthusiastically extends his hand to me. Shock runs through me, why the friendship and respect? As I step forward and shake his hand. I feel gratitude flood into me from the contact and then intense shock followed quickly by great pleasure, I look into his eyes with surprise, and notice his eyes shifting, perhaps looking at my bonds. I shake my head side to side smiling, as he smiles at me full of happiness. Marcus steps back, next to Carlisle once more.

"And finally - Edward, my son, and his human mate, Bella." Carlisle indicates the pair behind me, and I watch as Marcus looks past me smiling gently, keeping his eyes deliberately soft. His emotions as he regards Bella, happy, friendly, curious and then he looks at Edward, and his emotions shudder, loathing, anger, concern and worry, all very quickly under control and hidden from his face. But I felt them…

Marcus looks back at Bella, "Hello Bella, It is my greatest pleasure to meet you," not attempting to approach her in any way. Bella walks forward, leaving Edwards side, approaching me from behind until a step behind and to my left. I whip my head towards her, my hand twitching as if to stop her. Bella stops still, reacting to my queue.

She smiles reassuringly at me, and then turns her attention to Marcus. "I am pleased to meet you also, Marcus. I must admit, you surprise me. You have to be the first vampire I have met who has changed so dramatically compared to your picture in Carlisle's study. I am so happy to see you no longer so stricken." Marcus' heart starts to ache; he longs for something, someone perhaps? Then he glances back at Carlisle in query.

Carlisle grins back at Marcus, "She knows you and your brothers through the picture you gifted me. She's correct you know, you have changed a great deal, the weight is no longer so heavy on your shoulders." Carlisle reaches out and lifts his left hand, touching the face of his signet ring gently, whispering "Never forgotten." Fleetingly the grasp Marcus has over his pain fails and reasserts itself. I flinch as I am hit with a devastation, the like I haven't felt in over sixty years. I pull myself straight as if in uniform once again, and send Marcus some comfort and courage, to help him get a grip on his suffering.

I step closer towards him, noting Demitri's quick signal Felix to hold position, and speak softly, quietly enough to be just for his ears, "Sir, I offer to assist you with your burden a little, should you need so?"

I feel a wave of affection sweep over me from Marcus, "Dear Friend, you have done enough already, sometimes the compassion and love of my friends is the greatest gift I receive in this long life."

A smile spreads over my face as the Major rumbles happily within me, 'Ah my old friend, never forgetting.'

I step back, turning my voice inward; 'How come I don't clearly remember meeting Marcus, Major?'

Memories start unfolding, me at the height of my reign of terror striding through a familiar scene of carnage, black cloaked vampires watching from a distance…Me ordering a complete cleanup, and then heading to the black cloaks. I feel them all bar one struggling against my natural aura of terror and pain that encircles me. I address the one who's surrounded by ancient loss and devastation, no wonder he is unaffected by the pain earlier – his pain is greater than Jay's was, yet different. "Volturi" bowing my head with respect, "How can I assist you?"

The pained one pushes back his hood, "I am Marcus Volturi" he gestures to the man next to him, "Demitri, head of my guard. I wished to express my gratitude for whatever you did to me a short time back." He shakes his head in confusion, "as you dropped to your knees, somehow my pain became manageable for the first time in centuries. May I know my benefactor's name?"

I looked at his face with shock, understanding what I had felt as I pulled past Jay's cry for help. "I am Major Jasper Whitlock; I am pleased to have been of service to you."

Marcus' eyes light up in recognition of my name; "I believe you and your army are why things are so quiet here, just keep your protocols up each time, like just now… and you will be safe from us always." The night passed by the three of us discussing the world, bringing me up to date with events and Marcus filled in my gaps of knowledge that my Sire should have taught her progeny as well as enough to ensure I would always be safe from the Volturi. By the time dawn came, we found deep respect for one another and an odd binding friendship across ranks. Comprehension dawned on me; the last act I remember before collapsing was consciously drawing in my devastation to me, to stop it affecting what was left of the troops. I must have drawn in Marcus' also; hence the loss of so much time before my psyche even started internally voicing.

A mischievous smile spreads over Marcus' face, "Which reminds me, I have something that belongs to you – Antonio, Calib, bring it in please."

I hear the car doors opening, and four sets of footsteps heading towards the house. 'Something that belongs to you,' I muse to myself, I wonder what he means. Antonio and Calib enter the room, holding the collars of two other cloaked figures.

"I believe these are yours?" Marcus says as he strides behind them, un-hooding them.

Garrett, with a sheepish smile, with his head lowered, but peeking at me, and Peter, eyes full of emotion, just staring at me, joy filling us both as his name falls from my lips, "Peter" as if a pray had been answered. My joy overflows, as I smile at my brother, everyone's lips fighting a smile as I reassert control over my emotions.

I nod at Garrett, releasing him from his respectful stance, sending him my gratitude and respect. He unclasps the cloak, folding it and passing it to one of 'his' guards, Peter doing the same, before striding urgently across the room towards me. He halts just before me, a soft smile on his face, and words flow in unison, "Brother" both full of our delight at being in each other's presence once again and then I shift, my stance straightens slightly, Peter's eyes flick, dropping to a respectful height, his stance pulling into the Captain's.

"At ease, Peter," Echoes of the Major coming through in my drawl. The room tenses up slightly, especially the guard - Interesting. "What mischief have you been up to this time?" My drawl now fully the Major's voice. Demitri's head snaps towards me, as he takes a deep scenting breath, swiftly he quietly hand signs for his guards to fall back, as he lowers his head ever so slightly. The guards move back, taking on respectful stances, I look at Demitri and raise my eyebrow in amusement.

Peter responds to my query, "Not much, just thought it was time for old friends to meet up once more, and a chance to meet a new one" indicating Bella using his eyes briefly. I consider the response, taking a deep breath and chuckle. "Excellent Peter, excellent!"

My stance relaxes as the Major steps off duty and Jay takes control once more, stepping forward and pulling Peter into a tight hug, mouth to ear, "So good to have you here, my brother!"I step back, releasing Peter from the hug, and he falls in behind my right shoulder. "Thank you Marcus for returning my brother and his coven brother, my friend to me." Out of the corner of my eye, I had observed Bella's head turning and watching the proceedings, recognition of my body language changes as the Major appeared, awareness and anticipation filling her. She starts to move towards me, but Edward holds her back, a soft growl of discontent rumbles through my chest, which I try to keep quiet, but my irritation with Edward is rising once again.

Marcus smiles softly, his eyes moving from Bella to Peter to myself, fondness filling him. He turns towards Edward, a pensive look transforming his previously pleased face, as he barely perceptibly shakes his head. "Carlisle, could we speak in private?" He formally requests, walking over towards him.

"Yes, of course, come to my study, it is soundproofed." Carlisle leads Marcus upstairs. Antonio taking position outside the study door and Calib moving outside the back of the house.

Esme, looking nervous, speaks up, "Would you please make yourselves at home," indicating the lounge suite, "Knowing Marcus and Carlisle, they could be up there for hours," She smiles gracefully at the guests, then turns to Bella, "Drink or snack Bella?"

Bella looks over to Esme, "A bottle of water would be lovely thank you!" I struggle to hide my smile as Esme tries to take the guard under her wing.

Edward leads Bella to the loveseat nearest the kitchen, Alec and Jane taking the opposite chair, Demi settles into the armchair, next to them, leaving the long settee for Peter, Garrett, Felix and myself. Felix sits closest to Demitri, Garrett next to him, discussing Florence quietly with him. I turn to Peter, "Peter, come - I want you to meet the bravest human I know," as I walk over to Bella, Bella glows at the complement, but I feel Eddie tensing up and he lays a possessive hand on her wrist.

I sit on the arm of the chair, next to Bella, and turn to face her, "Bella, this is my brother, Peter Whitlock," smiling to ease her, and I turn my head to Peter, "Peter, this is my friend Bella Swan, Edward's girlfriend."

Peter's face breaks into a delighted smile, "It's my pleasure to meet you finally, Jasper has told me so much about you!" as he reaches and takes her right hand, turning it and kissing her bite. "You are a remarkable woman, Bella Swan, look at you, cool as a cucumber surrounded by all of us!"

Bella laughs, a joyful sound. "Well, I rather have to be really" She raises an eyebrow at him cheekily, "If I can face a nomad trying to kill me and survive, with only that bite scar as a reminder, sitting here surrounded by friends and family…" her voice stops as Demitri rumbles a growl in anger.

I surge to my feet, standing defensively in front of Bella and Peter, forcing calm into Demitri, I feel my Captain exuding protectiveness, crouched in front of Bella, "Stand Down, Demitri" I order, overtones of the Major in the command, as I allow his presence to be felt slightly by the guards, ensuring their submission to me. Demitri's eyes briefly flick a glance towards the study, whilst slumping his body in his seat, exposing his neck to me, screaming his remorse and apologising with his emotions. I glare at him, and then cast my eyes over the other guards, all studiously ignoring Demitri and I, keeping their eyes to the ground. I hear Peter straighten out of his stance, his pride and love soaking into me. I pull back my forceful presence and stand looking at Demitri; I walk over to him, and raise my eyebrow "Care to explain yourself?"I drawl as a spike of fear flashing through each of the guard; I smirk – Peter has briefed them well.

Demitri looks up slowly, when his eyes meet mine; I nod slightly, "My apologies; Hearing the young ladies words, that she was bitten, I couldn't stop the growl expressing my anger at her harm. Please tell me, you did catch him, destroy him?" Demitri queries, I sense protectiveness and duty rolling of Demetri as he speaks.

Deep inside me, it feels like my hackles had risen. Was he suggesting I couldn't protect my charge? I allow Demitri to feel my fury at his words. His body shudders at the onslaught of my emotions, I feel my eyes blacken, my stance straighten, "You. Know. Me. Well. Enough. I avenged Little One" I growl quietly to Demitri as Peter distracts Edward from our conversation behind me.

A beautiful voice rings out behind me, as I hear material rustle, and feel Peter's irritation start to appear. "Leave me be, Edward!" She firmly states.

Then Peter's voice reassures, "It's ok Ed, She'll be fine."

As I continue glaring at Demitri, fighting to hold in the fury at his words, my irritation at Edward starts to raise once more, a subhuman level growl slipping out, fear peaking from all present except Peter and Bella. Awe dominates Peter's emotions, flavoured by protectiveness and deliberate caution, and Bella positively screams calm awareness and determination as her footsteps move slowly and steadily closer towards me.

Demitri's eyes widen - shock and concern flowing through him, conflict in his eyes. Each of the guard's tense up, a fierce protectiveness suddenly flooding into me, from them. The Major pushes to the front, I cast my eyes around searching for the threat. I feel my power surging through me; I let these strangers feel "who" is here now. My captain's voice sounds, commanding quietly, "Submit!"

Instantly the guard obey him, pleasure runs through me at the instant obedience of the guard. Peter's emotions start to flicker, our long agreed sign for his approach, I hear the rustle of soft materials, and Little One's glorious warmth starts to spread across my back as I feel her hand touch me, the initial jolt causing me to take a sharp intake of breath, and my head to drop back slightly for a moment. Demitri's eyes look like they are going to fall out of his head, just as Little One speaks softly to me, "Come now Jasper, tell them the details, they need to understand how you protected me." Pleasure flared through me as she acknowledged my role to the room, and I feel my eyes changing back as my fury seeps out of me.

I turn and smile gently at her, "Of course Little One," I offer her my arm, "May I escort you to your chair, Miss Bella," her face flushing beautifully as my Texan accent flows over her. She places her hand on my offered arm, and I guide her to her seat next to Edward, glancing at him clearly thinking "Thank you" at him and adding the explanation "Their emotions are everywhere!" as I allow my face to look stressed to cover my 'slip' of temper. I turn to settle myself on the settee, placing myself between the guard and the family, and Peter follows, settling at my feet, making me smile tenderly at him, as he takes position between me and the Guard.

I start telling them the details of the encounter, the baseball game, Phoenix and as I start to tell them about the hall, I feel Peter's hand push my sock down and hold onto my leg, flesh against flesh, comfort flooding through me from the intimate touch. I take a deep breath and describe the scene, editing to keep the family oblivious of my true nature. I report in military fashion, brief and concise, keeping eye contact with Demitri, feeling his understanding at my briefing. I leave out Edward's failure to stop, his gratitude at my diplomacy growing with every word.

Demitri breathes in deeply as I conclude my recitation, and then speaks "Jasper, thank you for telling us," he looks at me directly in the eyes, and concentrates remorse and then want and hope, I look quizzically at him, "Miss Bella Ma'am, may I see the bite?"

I nod slightly my permission, as Bella speaks, "It's not that impressive really," holding her wrist towards Demitri, who rises and comes to stand next to Peter and me.

Demitri looks closely at the wound, his whole demeanour changing, his face softening as he looks up at Bella, "Jasper is correct, the bravest human I know" he nods his head to himself, looking towards Edward. "Clever idea, sucking the venom out of the wound," Edward nods grimly in response. Demitri continues "Must have been a nightmare in the studio considering."

Edward glances at me, guilt colouring his emotions, "Yes it wasn't the best, for any of us, except Carlisle of course, but it's amazing what you can do when your mind has a set objective." Just then, Carlisle and Marcus come down the stairs, concern and worry leaking from Carlisle, as he glances at Edward but Marcus appears pleased with their conversation. The two men glance at the postures in the room, and head over to towards the settee. I move closer to Garrett, to give Carlisle room to sit and Demitri moves to allow Marcus to sit in comfort.

As he settles down he pulls out his wallet, and then his face twists in concentration, and he extracts a black card. A few minutes later, a smile settles over his face as Alice gasps, then calls out "Really!" scampering down the stairs, "I've seen the perfect things! I will go first thing in the morning – Edward, you need to come with me!"

Edward looks up in surprise, "What? Seattle? What about Bella!"

"I've seen it, she and Marcus are going to tell stories to each other all day long, Carlisle, Emmett and Jasper will be looking after her!" Alice harrumphs at Edward, "You will stay with her until breakfast time, and then we will go!" as she dances over to Marcus and takes the card with a smile. "It will be my pleasure Marcus!"

I glance over at Marcus, satisfaction pouring from him. I hide my grin as I bolster my mental defences yet again; in one swoop he has taken Eddie boy away for the day, a chance for me to spend time with Bella. Her comments make me think, Marcus telling her stories – all day long. I reach out and sink myself into Alice's emotions, following their paths, sensing the twists and turns of the pattern that makes up 'Alice' and looking for the clues. Pleasure from the shopping, mischievousness, happiness – I look up at her, her eyes on me, she quirks her lips into her happy smile, the one to tell me she has seen good things… She slips behind Edwards's chair, waiting for me to resume eye contact, "Seven hours!" she mouths and then she smiles brightly at me, as she hits me with, what she calls, her 'no hands' hug. I grin back at her, looping the emotions back at her and watch as she dances out of the room once more. I must ask Marcus, he will know … I do so want her to be complete. My dear Ally Cat.

Conversation continues into the night, Bella talking avidly with Marcus, sharing her upbringing with him, as if they were the only two in the room. I could feel him fall under her spell, just as I did all those months ago, he starts to relax, to allow his loss to take a back seat, as Bella just treats him like family, perhaps an uncle visiting, not a Brother, not a vampire, just another person. The room's emotions were beautiful to feel; Demitri's awe and wonder at what he was witnessing, Jane and Alec's curiosity with occasionally bouts of fear when glancing towards either Peter or myself.

The Major chuckles "I bet she tried to use her gift against our Peter. Silly little girl, nothing can hurt more than emotional pain – her imaginary pain is nothing compared." Slowly I start to feel Bella's energy levels dropping; I look over to the settee where Bella and Marcus had settled down together, with Edward at her feet. Marcus was just sitting there quietly talking to her, watching her face with a look similar to that I have seen on Charlie's face. I reach out, ever so carefully opening myself to feel Marcus' emotional state, and am pleasantly surprised when I feel the smallest vein of tranquillity and acceptance running through him. I shift my hand slowly onto Peter's neck, requesting permission to share what I feel. I feel Peter look up at me, and then move his head following my line of sight. He covers my hand with his, nodding permission as he braces himself remembering last time he felt Marcus' state. Slowly, I start to let him feel the changes I feel, the beginning of healing starting to take place. Peter's emotions fluctuate, shock, wonder, happiness, and then he freezes still, grasping my hand painfully tightly as I feel the emotional side effects of his gift as knowledge runs through him. I pull in a breath, looking sharply down at him, still unmoving, as pulse after pulse of understanding hits him, and then the pain he hasn't felt since his newborn year hits him and rolls through our physical touch into me.

I stay unmoving, controlling the waves of pain, reducing them from Peter as they start to get beyond the level I know he can manage without further outward sign. I feel Peter's bloodlust rising, his gift draining him as the pulses of knowledge keep hitting him. It's the longest I have ever known it to go on for, and I start to get apprehensive. I start pulling the thirst into myself as I force myself to look towards Demi, sending his a quick hit of my concern to get his attention. Demitri moves his eyes towards me, taking in the scene before him, his eyes widening slightly as he notes the unusual tension in Peter's body, and the death grip he has on my hand on his neck. Demitri rises, glancing at Jane and Alec, hand signing them to stay and guard. "Jasper, could I borrow you and Peter for a while, I would like your advice on a strategic matter to do with The South," as he steps over to the pair of us.

Relief at his quick thinking rolls through me. "Of course Demitri, we would be pleased to assist" I pull Peter to his feet, feeling his gratitude briefly as he comprehends what we are doing.

Demetri steps round to Peter's free side, throwing a friendly arm around his shoulder. "I tell you Jasper, you should have seen him in Italy… hasn't lost his touch, after all these years. He's still a blur when he wants to be."

Demetri keeps up a dialogue as we guide Peter out of the house, heading towards the SUV's. "I don't suppose you have any emergency supplies in the car, Demi?" I ask hopefully. "Peter's gift is draining him too quickly for me to keep up safely." Demetri opens the trunk of the SUV, and digs around for a bit, pulling out a transfusion bag. I ease Peter to the ground, leaning him against the car, pulling my hand out of his grasp, causing a gasp of pain to break from his lips as I break contact with him. Demitri pushes the bag into Peter's mouth, slicing it open as it hits his tooth. The scent of blood hits me and my throat feels like a furnace; I grasp Demitri's shoulder as I fight to maintain my control. I hear Peter drinking the blood rapidly, contentment growing, his pain reducing.

I feel it as Peter is finally sated, no bloodlust within him, no pain, my own needs becoming bearable as his diminish, "You should still hunt, your eyes are still rather dark, Sir." Demitri whispers almost inaudibly. "I will look after Peter for you, there is a large beast three minutes run," pointing towards a favourite hunting area. I nod my thanks, and take off, not wanting to risk it with Bella in the house.

Peter's PoV

I watch as the Major runs off deep into the woods, my mind trying desperately to integrate the mountain of information I had just received. I look up at Demitri and sigh "Dem, I need a favour…"

Demitri returns my look, raising his eyebrow, "What do you need?"

I frown briefly, "I need you to stay in Seattle. You will be asked for Sanctuary, just how only Marcus teaches the request. Follow the wordin' of the request to the letter – until the leader is next to them!"

Demitri frowns, "Not many know the wording Marcus teaches." His head turns sharply towards the direction the Major ran, "Ok Peter, as you say… I will do!" He mouths "Incoming," and then carries on speaking "How are you feeling now Peter? More like yourself?"

I smile, "Yes thank you for the baggy – I needed that! I haven't been hit with that quantity of information for quite some time, was a bit of a shock to the ol' system." I clamber to my feet, just as Jasper runs up stopping right in front of me.

He reaches out and clasps my shoulders, "All ok Brother?" looking quizzically at me.

A lazy smile crosses my face, "All good now Jay, feelin' what you shared kicked off a whole bunch of knowledge" I shrug my shoulders at him, "Some I understand, others will take me some time to sort out, and you know how it is." I turn towards Demitri, "Thank you for getting me out of them, both of you"

I allow Jay to feel my remorse at my gifts side effects, and he promptly clips me on that arm, "Stop being daft Peter!"

I look towards the house, "Should we head back inside? Little one is fallin' asleep." I try to distract him from reading more into the situation than I want him to know right now.

Jasper's PoV

Peter isn't telling me something – Ok I know he isn't – that's the way it is with his gift, but there is something odd going on. I watched Demitri's emotions flicker as Peter was talking to me. Demitri knows something… I look closely at Peter; he isn't overly concerned about anything, none of the usual emotional patterns that would worry me.

As Peter's suggestion, I lead them back inside the house looking over towards Bella and Marcus, just as Edward leans down to pick her up and carry her off to bed. I smile ruefully, as I return to Marcus' side, having missed her last few waking minutes, and settle in for a night of catching up and storytelling. As Edward leaves the room with Bella, I feel a general sense of relaxation spread across the room, the tension dropping especially from the guards.

I notice Marcus exchanging looks with Carlisle on and off throughout the evening, and each time Carlisle calms a little more. I wonder what the conversation was over… I swap languages as I start translating War and Peace from English to Italian in honour of our guests. Marcus absentmindedly digs into his pocket, pulling out a fob watch, with a chain covered in charms attached. His fingers caressing them as if a rosary, feeling each one, knowing the path they walk, leading to the end, where a small locked container sits, crowned with a ruby. I glance at Demitri, who is also watching his Master's fingers as they walk their path, feeling sadness pour from Demitri as he looks at the container at the end. As the fingers reach the end of their path, Demitri moves slowly to the edge of his chair, concern flavouring his emotions now,his eyes now watching Marcus' face with worry. I reach out to taste Marcus' emotions, deep thoughtfulness, ancient sadness, depression – but not as strong as before, his pain growing slowly as his fingers reaches out towards the container. I glance around at those who know Marcus personally, concern on all their faces, Carlisle's bottom lip drawn between his teeth, Bella's influence showing on him. I reach into my memories, creating the peace that I felt when Bella helped me and slowly released it into the room to keep it unnoticed by others. I see Demi and Carlisle relax slightly, and Marcus' emotions feel cushioned as he finally touches the container. His fingers feel around it, each facet caressed and then slowly lifted to his other hand. He looks down in surprise, seeming to be unaware of what his hand had been doing. He lifts the box with a slight smile on his face, looking at it with pleasure. Out of the corner of my eye I see Demitri swallow heavily and then notice both his and Carlisle's eyes filled with venom. Marcus takes a deep breath, pushing away the pain he was feeling, shrugging off the veil it had cast over him. I slowly withdraw the peace from the room, until I know that Marcus' is holding his own, without my assistance.

I make eye contact with each member of the family, indicating from them to leave the room, and they traipse upstairs to their various rooms. Garratt and Peter head outside, until all that are left are the guard, Carlisle, Marcus and myself. I rise and head to the door, using eye contact to encourage Jane and Alec to leave the room as well. Felix rises and heads towards me as he notes what I was orchestrating, nodding respectfully to me as he hand commands the final pair to follow. I raise my hand holding my mobile, letting Carlisle know I was available if needed, and both Carlisle and Demi nod their understanding.

I stride out into the gardens, heading towards the private area to speak, "Come everyone, let's give them some time to themselves. Demitri and Carlisle will guard Marcus', let's just give him a chance to have some peace whilst he absorbs the changes he just made." Alec and Jane step closer to me, Peter shifting slightly towards me as he notices this. I send him a wait signal, and wait for the twins to speak.

"Sir, we are aware of your gift – is our Master ok?" Jane's worried eyes look up at me, whilst Alec glances between me and Jane.

I smile at the pair, their concern and respect sinking into me, "Your Master is fine" I reassure them, "He has just made some steps in the right directions." Happiness surrounds me; each of the guard seems to explode with their joy for Marcus, I glance around at each of their faces, their joy lit across them in broad smiles.

Jane reaches up, lightly touching my arm "Thank you Sir!" I lead them over to one of our fire pits, and gesture for them all to grab a seat. I quickly text Carlisle notifying where we are and then I sit down looking round at all the faces looking at me for leadership.

I shake my head lightly, muttering to Peter, "Why me…" and he snorts with laughter. "Well, what shall we do with you all?" I ask Felix.

He laughs, "Fancy leading a training session? It's been years since the last one you ran?"

I grin at him, "Go on then … split them into pairs, and we will do some work!" I glance at the numbers,"Peter, you will work with Felix – Garret, with the twins," I grin at Calib and Antonio, "And I will work with you pair!" I pull off my shirt, not wanting to rip another one so soon, and stride over to them. I growl out "Ok ... I want to see you working 100% effort, or you will be facing me instead." Their fear washes over me, and I laugh.

The night falls away into dawn, as the Guard slowly begin to understand what it means to train under the Whitlock's. I listen to Garrett and Peter's voices instructing over the session, and occasionally stride around, ensuring improvements are made by all. On and off I hear Jane argue back at Garrett, wanting to use her gift as she fights. I feel Garrett becoming overly irritated with her, and call him over to me. "Orders, Sir?" he queries.

I grin at him, "Go and fight Jane, one on one, I will protect you – teach her that her gift is not perfect." Garrett heads back, with an irritated look on his face; I reach out feeling his mirth, and prepare to take the pain from him.

Garrett calls out to Jane, "Ok, The Major has said you can … so let's fight – you and me!"

I watch as they prepare to fight, and as she opens up with her gift, I pull Garrett's pain from him, so all she sees him do is briefly flinch before charging at her, and catching her into a simple neck bite hold. She continues to use her gift, the pain is nothing compared to what Maria did to me, and so I grin and stride over towards her. She cries out "Ok ok!" but Garrett keeps her in hold, looking at me for the command. Her gift still flowing, I growl at her. Her attention snaps to me, her eyes wide, fearful, as I stalk towards her.

"Stop using your gift Jane" I snarl, "or I will show you real pain!" I feel her panic raise, her trying to gain control of herself ... her gift and finally it stops. "Now do you understand why I am insisting on you being able to fight without gifts?" I ask calmly, "Put her down Garrett!"

I turn to the entire guard, "You must be able to fight without gift as you never know when you will face someone who can defend against your gift, or is immune to it!" I glance back at Jane, "How many of you have lost a limb in battle?" I look round at the few raised hands, and watch as all bar one hand lowers, shame spiking their emotions, as I continue "And been able to continue with that pain?" I shook my head at them all. "I thought at much – All the Whitlock's have endured such pain, or at the very least multiple bites during a battle. It is worth considering how you would cope if you lost a limb in battle? What would you do? Survive or die?"

I turn and walk towards the fire pit, feeling Peter and Garrett's pride as they follow behind me. I grab my shirt, throwing it on and settle down on a log watching the fire flicker, listening to the sounds of the practice session ongoing.