Noon came before I was ready for it to. I spent the morning trying to distract myself from the situation, which had been putting a slight amount of stress on me. I cooked berry pancakes with Esme and ate painstakingly slow- I felt almost sick in my stomach with excitement and nervousness. We packed a few days worth of clothes and were on the plane already- it had seemed like it had gone all in a blur, as if I was in some sort of daze. It all seemed so familiar, meeting with Aro and his two brothers. Only the location had changed, and the severity of the situation. My main thoughts were memories and comparisons to the last time we had met face-to-face. As I watched out the window with my hands folded in my lap, I felt a cold arm around my shoulders. I turned to face my mother's golden eyes, a warm, caring look on her face. I knew that she had to have heard my heart probably racing at the thoughts of last time.
"Hey, it's gonna be okay," she almost whispered, her brow furrowing with a protective, caring, motherly tone. She couldn't hear my thoughts, but she knew exactly what they were about. "I won't let anybody hurt you, or any of our family. They just want to meet you again and see how much you've grown." Mom smiled as she kissed my forehead, pulling away slowly to grasp my locket necklace gently.
"Plus que ma propre vie," I responded articulately and quietly as I met her gaze. "I love you more than my own life as well, mom. Always," I smiled softly. We shared a gentle hug as she leaned back in her seat next to me, her cool right arm keeping its place behind my head. I sighed deeply, trying to relax my nerves. I was not necessarily afraid, nor too nervous, just.. mainly excited. I was proud that I had proved them wrong with keeping our secret and not harming anybody. I felt almost smug about it, in a way. My eyes met my own reflection in the window. Thinking of only a few short years ago and how I was a young child at the time and now, I was a young teenager. I studied my own reflection, billowing clouds in the background, as I wondered what Aro would think, what his response would be. I could recall how excited and shocked he was when he had first met me. The same medium brown eyes, a pale, yet lively-blushed face, framed by the same long, bronze, ringlet-y curls I had had all of my life. I had the same features, simply slimmer, more lean and.. grown up. I had lost most of what I knew as a 'baby face' and had started to look more like my mother and father- age-wise, anyhow. I was already an even split of their genes but, growing up made me look even more like them.
"Yes, she is okay, just deep in thought, Jacob," I heard my father whisper to my best friend, probably answering silent, worrying thoughts. I turned my attention to Jacob, who sat farthest from me, next to my father, and gave him a soft grin. He had wanted to sit next to me, but mom had claimed that spot, wanting to be closer to me during such a time, and I didn't mind.
"I'm alright, Jacob, no worries," I reassured softly. Jacob seemed much more calm as I reassured him. I leaned back in my seat, closing my eyes. Before I knew it, we were in Italy.
We had only had two bags since we would not be there for very long. As I stepped off the plane with my family, I noticed how beautiful Italy truly was in person. It was a mildly cloudy day. Everything was breath taking, it was just like the photos in the books, yet better. I greatly enjoyed travelling, especially to much different places. Italy was such a different environment than the rain forest or Washington, which was pretty obvious. The buildings all looked like they had been there for a very long time, though a bit modernized. The air had a scent thick with subtle perfume, freshly baked pasta, pastries, and things of the like. We made the short walk from the airport to the hotel we would be staying in. Our room had a beautifully intricate pattern on the carpet and walls, an average sized bathroom and its own small kitchen and balcony. I looked up at my father as we put our things away in the nicely decorated room.
"Daddy?" I questioned aloud. He looked back at me instantly as he was unpacking and putting some clothes away in a dresser, seeming on edge and wary to protect me and mother. "When do we see Aro?" I felt excited, yet nervous and..now, slightly afraid. It felt as though my stomach was doing little back flips.
"We will leave here in a few minutes, it is only a small walk from the hotel." He tried to smile reassuringly. I nodded in return. It felt so strange, so surreal to be there. Momma sat next to me on the bed, her cool arm gently rubbing my back and succeeding at soothing most my nerves. Jacob was in the restroom, putting on 'real clothes' to go see the guard and be in Italy, rather than wearing a tattered t-shirt and jeans with countless holes. I thought he looked wonderful regardless. He looked beautiful, or handsome, if that was the correct term, wearing real jeans that Alice had picked out for him, and a nicely fitting, clean t-shirt. I felt almost self conscious around my family and my Jacob- I had always felt dim in comparison- and not just because my literal shine in the sunlight was, actually, more dim. Wearing my locket, bracelet from Jacob, and finally wearing the dazzling ring I had received a few years back on my left middle finger, momma wore the shiny, dazzling necklace that Aro had gifted her years ago (though she had given it to me when I was younger, she wore it once more as a thoughtful gesture to Aro.). We made our way to Volterra.
We passed a fountain that was filled with more coins than I had imagined- people making wishes, I had learned. I passed it, not feeling as if I had to wish for anything- I had all that I could ever possibly wish for. We reached the side doors of the very, very old building and didn't even need to knock. Jane answered, the same distasteful expression that she almost always had towards us (more towards me than ever), and I felt the invisible elastic of mom's shield cover me, although I could shield myself then. Jane always seemed like she resented us, and I knew that she did. Before I could extend a greeting, she spoke.
"I will take you to Aro," she kept a straight and irritated face the entire time she spoke, leaving me to feel uneasy. Her voice was the same chime of bells as ours, but more sharm. As we entered, I could hear Jacob begin to shudder protectively, and instantly felt a cool and secure hand from each of my parents on either of my shoulders. I took Jacob's warm hand in mine, a platonic gesture, and he instantly calmed himself for the most part. My eyes gazed up at his as he gazed at mine silently, and I showed him how much I cared for him and my parents, and how I knew that we would be just fine. He returned with a lighthearted grin, trying his best to think the same.
The sound of Jane's shoes echoed in the ancient hallway as we walked the long corridor, then a few steps, and stood before two very large doors that then opened before us with a loud, resonating creak. I could smell the thick, incense-like scent of the three brothers before we even crossed the threshold. All three hands that were on my shoulders and in mine tightened their grip slightly. I turned back for confirmation that we could continue forward, and both of my parents nodded, their faces hard as stone. I nodded silently in return, keeping a grip on my Jacob's hand and squeezing reassuringly to remind him to remain calm as we walked up the three stone steps and into the large, beautiful space. Aro seemed delighted, visibly so, to see me, as a large, enthused grin crossed his features. Marcus showed a soft smile, and Caius, as I had known him before, showed no such expression, aside from a slight smirk. The air smelt old and stagnant, and I could smell the old scent of humans that they had had prior to our arrival. As we slowly marched forward, my parents stopped instantly, Jacob and I following, only ten yards from the three. As soon as we were in front of them, my nervousness nearly vanished. I knew I was safe, I sensed no danger, neither did my parents or my Jacob.
"How lovely it is to see all of you again, especially you, Bella, Renesmee," Aro spoke, his accent thick when pronouncing my mother's name. I turned to my parents silently, and they both hesitated, yet nodded to agree- I could walk forward and be the one to greet them. I had wanted to, and they had known that. Next, my eyes met with my Jacob's, and I held his hand in both of mine. He had a light shiver as I showed him what I was going to do- walk to Aro, speak to him, greet him as friends- but he nodded solemnly in agreement as well- he knew that, while he and both of my parents did not want me anywhere near the Volturi on my own, that it had to be done. I knew that I would be safe. I reluctantly let go of his hand and willed my feet to step toward the elder vampire- his striking crimson eyes almost sending a chill down my spine. Others with those eyes did not affect me, for example, Zafrina and her coven or, really any other non-vegetarian vampire that I had known as friendly. I held my head up regardless, confident- though not cocky, as I stood before him. Aro knelt in front of me so to be closer to my height, although, he was just a few inches shorter than I then. It seemed rather different, being in the midst of my teenage years and seeing them, when the last time that I had, I was a young child.
"It is truly a joy to see you in person, Renesmee. My, my.. you have grown into such a beautiful young lady!" He exclaimed, seeming proud, almost smug. Caius scoffed as I heard a low growl come from Jacob's chest. I didn't turn to see my parents' expressions, I was focused on Aro, whose scent and cold were almost deafening to my senses. I grinned in response.
"Thank you, Aro," I spoke aloud, though I knew that he was fascinated with my gift. I greatly wanted to show him that I had grown more able to blend in with humans. "Time leaves you untouched and looking quite wonderful yourself," I returned the compliment, seeing his face light up in delight, seemingly at my voice. His face suddenly seemed so amused, as if he had found a treasure- the same way he looked at select members of my family.
"Ah, so articulate! Maraviglioso," he spoke, a perfect accent. I smirked, almost showing off. I had not yet shown him how I had become fluent in Italian.
"Grazie mille, Aro. Sei troppo gentile." Thank you very much, Aro. You are too kind. Aro seemed to smile again, turning to Caius.
"See, brother? It seems that I was correct in deciding that we could trust this child to grow into a fine young vampire," he seemed smug of his decision, though it seemed so different to me to be referred to as simply a 'vampire'. Aro turned back to me, always moving at a vampire speed. "Now, young Renesmee, I am sure that you would be delighted to show me how much I have missed since meeting you last, hm?" I nodded, a soft grin on my lips.
"Of course," I responded, smiling softly at the vampire. He didn't hold his hand out, so I used my gift. As I felt his cold, too smooth cheek on my fingertips, I showed him everything, not leaving out a single detail.
"Ah," Aro sighed, seeming amazed. I let my hand fall as I showed him every single moment in a matter of seconds, no worries this time, no asking for him to spare us- just a conversation between friends. Aro stood again, meeting my gaze one last time. His expression seemed.. accepting and approving of what he had just seen.
"It seems that I was indeed correct to in my decision- you are truly mature and intelligent, and I must apologize for doubting you or your family, dear Renesmee." Aro had the same grin on his lips, and I nodded, accepting his apology. "You and your coven- my apologies, your family, are truly amazing, there is no doubt in that. You keep your hunting secluded as well as your living, and you are also planning on relocating to keep our secret hidden from the public eye." He seemed to explain for the other two, who had missed out on the silent conversation. "I must commend you all on that, and once more, I do apologize for my lack in judgement at our last interaction." Aro seemed to not want to apologize for what had happened, but still seemed insistent on doing so.
"I understand, Aro." I took a few steps back, feeling the cold hands return protectively to my shoulder as I took Jacob's shivering hand once again. I was not sure what else to say to him, and he seemed to be having a silent conversation with my father, so he spoke next. I felt his cool hand tighten slightly on my shoulder.
"Aro, I understand that you invited us here, not only to meet with my daughter, but to tell us something of importance," dad seemed to try to nudge him into explaining. Both Jacob, momma and I turned to look at my father, shocked, confused. Had he? I thought that he just wanted to see my progress and how well we have been at being seclusive and abiding by the vampire law. Aro sighed lightheartedly, seeming almost frustrated.
"Oh, Edward, I simply wanted to catch up and have some small talk with my dear friends," he closed his eyes, as if admiring something, then looked at us again.
"Brother, I do agree that we should not waste a moment in explaining the situation to them," Marcus spoke up. He seemed so tired, compared to the other two. Aro nodded in agreement.
"I see," he seemed hesitant to explain. "Now, you all do remember Nahuel's tale of his father and his sisters, yes?" We all stayed silent, but nodded. "Edward, I think it may be best for you to explain to your family." Daddy nodded, then continued.
"Nahuel's father, Joham, and his three daughters were continuing to create more hybrids and continue their.. superhuman race." Dad seemed to grit his teeth together at the last two words. I shared in his disgust toward their idea. "The Volturi have have taken care of the situation, defeating Nahuel and his coven.. aside from two of the sisters who agreed to change their ways. Though they did not join the Volturi guard in any way, they have been allowed to become nomads on their own." He didn't need to say that Nahuel was safe- we already knew.
"Yes," Aro nodded, seeming pleased with my father's explanation. It truly did seem much more calm, speaking to the three in such a friendly manner. "Their names are Maysun and Jennifer. Do not be alarmed should they pass through your area. They are peaceful sisters." Aro explained. I let out a breath of relief. I had always been curious as to Joham's plan, almost worried. I thought of meeting the sisters. My father immediately spoke a soft, yet firm, "no". I was curious as to why.
"They are.. unsettled by what had happened." I could understand that. "Not only is their entire coven and family gone, Nahuel and Huilen seem unsure of them as well. Nahuel refused to have any involvement with his father, and they still look up to Joham in such a way. Not only that, but.." my father seemed unsure as to what to say. "Joham spoke often of you to his children, usually comparing them to you."
"Why?" I quietly demanded, having turned from Aro and facing my father, in our own conversation- in which the others were completely absorbed.
"Not a single one of his children are gifted.." he spoke slowly. "Your vampire abilities have also far exceeded those of the others." I felt proud of that in a way, but instantly felt bad for the two women. There was nothing wrong with not having a gift, and it made my stomach feel almost physically sick knowing that Joham knew of me and spoke of me in such a way.
"It truly is a tragedy, how Joham treated his young," Aro spoke. We all agreed. "However, we need not worry about him and his ways. The two are learning how to live on their own, and seem to be doing very well in their healing." Aro seemed so much more kind and concerned than he ever had about others. We were all confused, yet relieved.
"It was truly a wonder to meet you once again, Renesmee. I am sure that I can speak for all of my coven when I say that you have grown extraordinarily, and you have a great control over your thirst, abilities, and emotions. I do hope we may meet again someday soon," he smiled softly, and I nodded, returning the grin. Aro had concluded the meeting, and it had gone so well.
"It was nice to see you again as well, Aro. I hope the same."
We parted ways with the three, a human Italian woman leading us down a different corridor and back outside, where we continued to walk home. My hand was in Jacob's, and my parents walking close to us.
We relaxed at the hotel for a little bit. I watched some television with Jacob while mom and dad walked around the area. Everything was in Italian, which made Jacob so, so confused. We had come up with a plan- as we watched some shows, I would keep my palm on his hand, translating into English for him. Mom thought that our plan was genius, yet hilarious. Once we left the hotel, we went to the average tourist stops- the Colosseum, Pompeii, the leaning tower of Pisa, and lastly, the five villages of Manarola. I was amazed by the bright colors of all of the buildings and the lack of modern development, leaving the villages to retain the same beauty that they had for many years.
On the way back to the hotel around ten p.m., Jacob insisted that he and I try real, authentic Italian pasta and bread. We got the food to go, knowing that it would seem strange for my parents to sit at the table and not eat anything. Jacob and I both got the same, since I had truthfully never tried pasta- spaghetti with meatballs and a baguette (while they were more common in France, many places in Italy still made them!), to split.
After we made our way back to our hotel under the starlight of a clear night, Jacob and I found a movie on TV- the Titanic. I didn't even need to translate- Jacob said that he had seen it 'a million times', so it wasn't necessary. I tried a minuscule bite of pasta in sauce while Jacob began practically devouring his and, honestly, it wasn't too bad. It was all certainly fresh, I could tell, and I genuinely enjoyed eating it. I only finished three fourths of my pasta and half of my bread before offering it to Jacob- the carbs were incredibly filling. My mother read a new book while daddy laid with her, joining in on her reading. Dad had promised that he and I would take a walk along one of the coastlines in the morning and would get a few souvenir seashells, and I fell asleep that night, calm and looking forward to the next morning. I had peaceful dreams that night of hunting with my loved ones back home.
((OH GOD! It's two in the morning and I work early tomorrow.. oops. Well, I really hope you guys enjoyed this! I may make some revisions in the next week or so to this chapter- I'm not too sure how I feel about it! Anyways, I hope you all enjoy your Halloween and have a good day!)
(((EDIT! I edited this chapter as I didn't like how I wrote it the first time. Thank you for your patience and understanding!)))