Disclaimer:

I don't own Twilight.

Author notes:

Thanks to my beta and my prereaders, as always, they have done wondrous things, helping me get this chapter just right. Their feedback and handholding is invaluable.

Thank you all so much for your support of the last chapter and your understanding about the wait for this chapter, due to the holidays. And send Dooba lots of hugs and kisses for doing beta on this monster chapter you're about to read!

In case you missed it, Dooba and I wrote a short, six-chapter story as a little Christmas gift to our readers: The Promise of Hope. You can find the link on my profile.

PLEASE, see me at the bottom for an important note about the next chapter!

Ok, buckle your seatbelts, because this chapter is bumpy. And remember, I warned you, a big cliffy at the end.

CHAPTER FORTY-FOUR

The plans had been made, the practices held. Everything was organized to the slightest detail. The Cullens and wolves felt as ready as they could possibly be without an actual date for the arrival of the nomads. Everyone was anxious, just wanting to get it all over and move on with their lives.

"It's like a damn sword hanging over our heads," Bella complained one evening, "Why don't they just come and then you all can kill them, and we can relax?"

"We all want that," Carlisle sighed, "Fourth of July is a week away, so Alice should get a definite date soon."

"I've been thinking about it all," Jasper spoke up, "And I had an idea. We need to drive them to the location we have picked out. We know they are after Bella, so we need to make them think Bella is there without having her actually be there."

"Yes?" Edward questioned, "You haven't been thinking it around me."

"No, I've waited till I was far enough away, because I wanted to mull it over and present it to everyone, without you jumping to the wrong conclusion and flying off the handle."

"Explain it to us all," Carlisle said.

"What if we had you draw a little blood from Bella and we can spread it on the trail?" Jasper suggested, "First we can take her to the clearing, starting her path from wherever they will be approaching. Then we could add a little of her blood to the trail and have one of the wolves carry her away, so they don't notice her scent leaving the area as they approach."

"It's a good idea," Emmett said, "You have to admit that, Edward."

Edward nodded.

"It is a good idea," he admitted, "As long as timing works for us to have Bella well away before they will come across the trail."

"Do we know which of the wolves Sam intends to leave to guard La Push?" Esme asked, worrying.

"I don't think they had decided, last time Sam and I spoke," Carlisle answered, "I can call and check with him."

Carlisle reached to his pocket to get his cell phone, but before he could, there was a gasp from Alice, who had been listening as she arranged fresh flowers in the living room. She froze, the vase slipping from her fingers, shattering on the floor with the crash of breaking glass. Jasper flashed to her, holding her shoulders as she trembled in the grips of the vision.

"Darlin', are you ok?"

Alice moved, the vision fading.

"They've decided," Edward announced, having seen the vision along with Alice through her thoughts.

"Well?" Rose snapped, "Someone fill us in!"

"The third," Alice said, "July 3. Six days."

Bella clutched Edward's hand anxiously.

"It's going to be stormy that day, too," Alice continued, "I see strong winds, some thunder. That will help block any noise we might make."

"And it will help keep the townspeople inside," Esme said, thankfully.

"I'm calling Sam now," Carlisle said, "I'll have them come over. Bella, call Charlie and see if he can stop by after work. The time has come to set things in motion."

Sam decided that Jake and Seth would be left to guard La Push. Jake was one of their strongest fighters, and for that reason, Sam wanted him to be the one protecting Charlie and Bella specifically. Seth would run the perimeter of the reservation in his wolf form, near enough to let Jacob know if anything happened, good or bad. Bella worried about the Pack not having Jake with them in the fight, but he assured her that they could manage.

"Charlie trusts me," he explained," And I'm the strongest and fastest if we need to move in a hurry as well."

"Jake, you'll meet us at the other side of the clearing," Jasper instructed, "You can carry Bella away then, straight to La Push. Charlie, you'll be there already, having a nice day with your friend Billy."

Charlie scoffed.

"I don't know if Billy and I have nice days together anymore, but maybe we can mend some fences this way."

"I had an idea," Sam said, "We need an excuse for Charlie to try to keep campers out of the woods that day. What if a few of us let ourselves be seen in wolf form, just on the edge of the woods there, in the direction the nomads will be traveling?"

"That's a great idea," jasper said, "It gives Charlie a good reason to do it. Gives authenticity. I know you want to do more, Charlie, but you are doing the best thing by staying safe. We'll do all we can to protect the town."

Charlie shrugged.

"I know," he said, "It just goes against the grain to sit it out."

"I understand that," Jasper agreed, "All your training and your whole mindset makes you want to protect. That's what you do. This time, the best way you can protect is to let us do it for you. We won't let you down."

The day came, and they felt they were as prepared as possible. The wolves had done their part, showing themselves with brief glimpses, so Charlie could send out warnings to stay out of the woods, till the wild animal was found.

Early on the day the nomads were expected, everyone gathered for final details. As soon as they were done, Edward and Bella set out for the road to take the trail to the clearing. The family followed them, hoping the nomads would think that everyone had gathered for another baseball game. Emmett even dropped a baseball on the way to help the illusion.

Rose had an idea to cut a few strands of Bella's hair, strategically placing them along the trail, making it look as if the hair had been snagged on a branch as she passed. Carlisle drew a little blood from Bella, and it too was sprinkled along the path.

"James will not be able to resist this," Jasper said, "Everything will draw him here."

"I hope so," Bella muttered.

Bella was getting very nervous. She was more worried for Edward and the rest of those who would be fighting, than she was worried for herself and Charlie. She tried to smile and act as if she was cheerful and confident, but she clung to Edward desperately, and he knew her well enough to know she was frightened.

"I hate doing it this way," Edward told Bella, "I hate leaving you when there is danger. I hate that I will not be near you and won't know what's happening with you. Jake can communicate in his wolf form, but not being with you puts me on edge. It's ok to be nervous, love. I am nervous for you."

"I know you're indestructible and all," Bella sighed, "I know that you more than outnumber James and Victoria, but I can't help worrying. Once I'm like you, we won't ever have to separate like this."

Edward stopped on the path and held her close, kissing her gently.

"This is the last time we will have to separate in a time of danger," he promised, "In just over a month, you will be changed, and we will be equal in the physical sense. In fact, for the first year, you'll be stronger than any of us. For this time, let us all stand for you."

"Promise me you won't be hurt," Bella pleaded, "Come back to me my love, my life."

"I promise."

They reached the clearing a few minutes later. Edward stopped in the middle of the clearing, turning Bella in the direction Jake was waiting for her. She wrapped her arms around her husband and held on tightly, fighting back the tears.

"Be careful," she wept, "Everyone be careful."

"We will be careful," Carlisle came to Bella's side and brushed his hand down her hair, "We will all come through this, and Edward will call you the instant it's over. Don't fear, dear daughter. None of us will be hurt."

Everyone hugged her.

"Ok, love, walk the direction you are facing," Edward told Bella, "Jake is waiting for you there in his human form. James won't know you left the clearing because Jake's scent will cover up yours. It's quite unpleasant to our kind."

Bella heard a snort from Jake across the clearing.

"The wolves will be waiting out of sight there, when the nomads arrive," Edward continued.

"I guess I'm just nervous because Alice can't see anything," Bella said.

"Don't you trust Jazzy's brilliant strategizing?" Alice chimed, "Don't worry so much."

Bella couldn't help but chuckle a tiny bit at that.

"I love you so much, Bella," Edward whispered, kissing her again, "I'll be back with you before you know it."

"I love you too," Bella said.

She straightened her shoulders, holding her head high, putting on her confident appearance. She would not leave Edward with the image of her sad and crying. She would leave him with a smile on her face, a smile that would tell him she had faith in him and the rest of them.

Bella walked across the clearing, stopping as she sensed the woods closing in ahead of her.

"I'm here, Bells," Jake called, "Just a few more steps. We don't want to get my scent in the actual clearing yet."

Bella took a few more steps, and Jake reached out his hand to her, guiding her the rest of the way to the path on the other side.

"Ok, you ready to get carried away?" Jacob asked.

Bella giggled nervously, reaching her hand back toward Edward for a brief longing moment.

"How I wish I could stay," she said, "Oh well. Ok, Jake, how are we doing this?"

"That's our girl," Jake encouraged, "I'm gonna just carry you out."

With those words, Jake knelt and scooped Bella into his arms.

"Hey wait," she joked, "I thought you'd be in wolf form and I could ride you out."

"No way, crazy girl, I'm not a damn horse."

"You're big enough to be one," Emmett bellowed, "You should give Bellarina a horsey ride."

Jake flipped him off, and Emmett laughed. Jake began to run in the opposite direction, taking Bella far from the clearing, where they both knew her heart would remain till Edward was with her again.

oOo

James, Victoria and Laurent approached Forks from the direction Alice had seen. Laurent was nervous, and he knew that if it was possible for a vampire to have a panic attack, he'd be having one right then. He did not want to be there at all. He could only hope the Cullens would understand right away, that he was not going to join in the fight.

"Come on, Laurent," James chided, "Quit dragging your feet. We're almost there, and once it's over, you're free to go."

The trail that Edward and Bella had laid for James worked just as they had all hoped.

"Ah, they are returning to the area where we met them last time," he rejoiced, "And they have the human with them this time. Mmmm, her scent is so sweet."

"Doesn't it seem a little too convenient?" Victoria thought aloud, "Is it possible they mean for us to come this way for some reason of their own?"

"No, I don't think so," James disagreed, "It was obvious that they spent a lot of time in that field. It's summer, and they like to play baseball, so my guess is that they are just doing that. Hmmm, looks like the human girl was injured. Smell that sweet blood?"

"She's so small," Victoria complained, "Are you going to share her with me?"

"We'll stop and feed again in the town," James promised, "Once we deal with these useless excuses for vampires, I want to keep that Edward alive, long enough to see me drain his pet dry."

"James, if they are all there, we are outnumbered," Laurent pointed out, "All there scents are here, so I am expecting that they will all be there. How do you think the three of us can beat seven vampires?"

"You're such a pessimist," James chided, "They have the girl with them, and they will be cautious around her. They will be distracted by worrying about her. She may even get injured before I get to her, and that will distract them even more. You working out the escape routes, Victoria?"

"Of course," she giggled, "We won't have any problems getting away, if anything goes bad. Not that anything will go bad with you in charge."

"Good girl."

Laurent wondered if Victoria would ever realize that James kept her around mostly for her gift of evasion. She was stupid but vindictive, and if she ever realized it, he wondered what she'd do to James. Laurent shrugged. If all went well, he wouldn't be anywhere near James and Victoria if that day ever came.

They continued on in silence.

In the clearing, the Cullens waited. Everyone but Edward was still, just listening, wanting the action to begin, wanting to get it over with at last. The day dragged, the hours seeming to take weeks instead of mere minutes.

Edward paced. He tried to keep his mind focused on the moment, but he kept thinking about Bella, worrying about her, hoping Jake would keep her safe. The wolves had arrived, and Sam had let Edward know through his thoughts, that Bella and Charlie were safe in La Push. Still, he paced and worried.

"Calm down, son," Carlisle went to stand by Edward, placing an arm around his shoulders, "Bella is in the safest place she can be. We need your mind on the events at hand."

"I know, I know," Edward groaned, "I just wish Alice could see her."

"You know I wish I could see her too," Alice said.

"I don't mean that as criticism," Edward explained, "It just makes me uneasy being away from her, and knowing you can't see her makes it worse."

"There are only three of them," Jasper reminded him, "And one of them is still planning to quit the minute they arrive."

He glanced at Alice and she nodded back.

"Yeah, so Laurent is still planning to surrender," Jasper continued, "That means James and Victoria alone. We can't help but win and this will be over in a few minutes. Relax, Edward. You'll be back with Bella soon."

"They will be here in 11 minutes and 23 seconds," Alice announced.

"Shouldn't we be like, playing baseball or something?" Emmett suggested, "Or at least make them think we are?"

"Yes, good idea," Jasper said, "Let's at least throw the ball around and make it loud, so they'll think we're just having fun."

Emmett threw a baseball to Rose, who forced a laugh and tossed it back at him.

"I can hear their thoughts now," Edward said quietly after a few more minutes, "Get ready."

Hidden in the trees on the other side of the clearing, Sam let out a quiet growl and warned the Pack to be prepared for anything.

There was nothing more to do but wait, and so, they waited.

oOo

Bella started her day in La Push at Jake's house. Charlie was there, and she wanted to stick close to her father. She felt less nervous about it all when she was near him. Logically, she knew that there was nothing Charlie could do against a vampire, if one of the nomads should make it that far. Logic didn't seem to matter at such a time, and being near him kept her from worrying about him.

Conversation was stilted between Billy, Charlie and Bella. Billy's attitude about the Cullens hadn't mellowed, and he felt Bella had betrayed everyone by marrying Edward. He barely spoke to her, and his conversation with Charlie was superficial. Jake was outside in his wolf form, listening to the rest of the pack, coordinating with Seth. From time to time, he'd phase back to human and give the others an update. Bella was grateful for his consideration.

"You know, this is all your fault," Billy told Bella after Jake had gone outside following an update, "If you hadn't gotten yourself mixed up with the bloodsuckers, our boys wouldn't be risking their lives fighting with them now. Trying to save you, as it happens."

Bella froze, shocked.

"That's enough, Billy," Charlie snapped, "Leave Bella alone."

"I'm just wanting her to look at the truth and see what she's done by becoming involved with vampires," Billy said, "Seriously, Bella, how could you even marry one of them? They aren't alive."

"They are very much alive," Bella said.

Billy snorted.

"I'm going to go outside," Bella said, "I don't want to argue with you about this. We aren't going to change each other's minds. Why don't you try to repair your relationship with my dad? I mean, you two were best friends. I know he misses you, especially now that Harry is gone. How can you let my choices interfere with a lifelong friendship?"

Bella grabbed her cane and stomped out to the porch.

"Jake, if you can phase back, could you take me over to Emily's?" she called, "She must be going crazy too, and I'd like to wait with her."

Jacob phased to human and moved to Bella's side.

"Don't let him get to you," he urged, "Dad is, well, he's just old and bitter. He doesn't understand why we get along with the vamps, and he blames you. I know it's not fair, but there's nothing more he can do than complain about it."

"I know," Bella sighed, "He must feel like everyone has turned against him, with even my dad knowing the truth and being ok with it all."

"Come on, I'll walk you over to Emily's. I'm sure she would be glad to have you visit. I know she was freaking over Sam going into battle."

Bella had to laugh.

"Going into battle?" she questioned, "It's only two vampires."

"Made you laugh though," Jake teased, "That's good. I can send that thought to Edward when I phase back."

"Are you disappointed to be missing the action?" Bella asked as they walked.

"I was pissed at first," he answered, "But we all wanted there to be two of us guarding our land. With you and Charlie here, too, it was even more important to have one of the best fighters here. That's me."

"If it wasn't for me, though," she began, "None of you would be fighting."

"That's bullshit, Bells," Jake stopped, turning to face her, "Those vampires, the nomads, they're bad news. If it wasn't you, it would be someone else. This way, we're working together to get rid of a threat, a threat to all of us and to Forks. It's the damn nomads fault. You got it?"

"Thanks, Jake, I think I needed the lecture."

"You're just anxious, and who wouldn't be. But it'll be over soon and you'll be reunited with your husband. There won't be any stupid threat hanging over your head anymore, and in a month, you'll start a whole new life."

He patted her hand.

"Here's Emily's," he said, "I'll stay around the house, once I phase, ok?"

Bella hugged him.

"Let me know when you get any news."

"I will. I'm gonna phase back now. I need to check in with Seth."

Bella waved and knocked on Emily's door.

"Bella," Emily greeted when she opened the door, "I'm so glad you came over. Come in. I've got freshly baked muffins and was just about to make some coffee."

"It smells so good in here," Bella commented, sniffing the air, "What flavor muffins did you make?"

"Cinnamon streusel," Emily answered, "They're Sam's favorite. I wanted them ready for him when he gets back."

"I can't wait to try one."

"Come on into the kitchen then," Emily said, "I thought you were waiting at Billy's with your dad."

"I thought maybe we could wait together," Bella said, entering Emily's cozy kitchen, "I'm nervous, and I guess you are too. Maybe we can help each other get through it."

"Yeah, I am nervous," Emily replied, "Sit down at the table. Here's a muffin. The coffee will be ready in just a minute."

The two young women talked quietly, eating warm muffins, waiting for news, waiting for it all to be over.

oOo

The nomads moved silently through the trees, as they approached the clearing. It was too much to hope that their victims didn't know they were coming. Vampires could smell other vampires, and James was sure they would never forget the scent of another. But James was confident that there would be no trouble. He listened closely, but he couldn't hear the girl's heartbeat, and that concerned him. Still, he thought, they'd arrive in a moment, and then the fun could begin.

"I'm coming for you little girl," he thought.

James stopped just outside the clearing. Victoria came to his side, with Laurent slightly behind them.

"What is that gross smell?" Victoria asked, looking around worriedly.

"Smells like some wild animal," James said, not concerned, "It's disgusting, sure, but keep your mind on the situation at hand."

Victoria felt uneasy about the unknown animal. She'd never come across anything similar, and she didn't like it. But she tried to put her concern aside and followed James into the clearing.

The Cullens had stopped their aimless activity. There was no use pretending anymore. The nomads had to know they were expected.

"Wait," Carlisle mouthed to his family, stepping to the front, Jasper and Emmett and Edward behind him.

The wolves edged closer to the clearing on their side. The hair on the backs of their necks rose.

"Wait," Sam ordered the pack.

James stepped forward, walking into the meadow, smiling a grin of triumph.

"Hello, Cullens," he said, "Aren't you pleased to see us again?"

Carlisle stepped forward.

"James, I thought we told you to stay out of our territory," he said calmly.

"But I don't like to do what I'm told," James sneered, his eyes sweeping the clearing, "Where's the girl?"

"She's not here," Carlisle answered.

"No problem," James replied, seething at being tricked, "We'll just go into town and find her then. That blood of hers that you so nicely led us here with, well, the smell of it sure has made me thirsty. Would any of you like to come along and see the show?"

He glared at Edward.

"As a matter of fact," James continued, "I really wanted to take care of her in front of Edward, so why don't I give you a head start to try to protect her and get her away from me? I'll find her, and I'll enjoy letting you watch what I'll do to her."

Edward roared his rage and launched himself at James.

James laughed, glad he'd been able to provoke the boy so quickly. He glanced at Victoria and Laurent, nodding at the rest of the Cullens, signaling them to begin the fight.

oOo

Billy and Charlie sat in the blacks' small red-painted house. They'd talked about fishing, Charlie's job and the happenings on the reservation. They'd avoided discussing Bella's marriage, or the Cullens, or Bella's ultimate change. They avoided talking about what was going on elsewhere, as they sat, pretending to drink beer, pretending not to worry.

At last, Billy couldn't stand anymore, and he tried once more to broach the difficult topics with his old friend.

"Charlie, look, I know you don't want to discuss this again," he began, "But how can you let Bella take the step she is planning? It's not right. She'll be a monster. How can you let your own daughter become something so disgusting?"

"Are you really saying you think my daughter will be a monster?" Charlie replied angrily, "Did you just say my daughter's choices are disgusting? As if it's any of your business what she chooses to do with her future?"

"Damn it!" Billy pounded the arm of his chair with his fist, "She's going to be a fucking vampire. Do you understand that? A vampire? A bloodsucking fiend, a creature that lives to destroy human life."

"How the hell can you say such a thing?" Charlie snarled, "You don't like to admit it, but even you know that the Cullens don't harm any human being, and that they will be teaching Bella to follow their ways. For fuck's sake, Billy, Carlisle kept Emily from being hideously scarred after one of your sweet innocent non-monsters gave into his temper and injured her terribly. Why can't you look beyond your prejudices and see the truth?"

"Why can't you look beyond your rose-colored glasses and see the Cullens for what they are?" Billy shot back.

The two men, lifelong friends, glared at each other.

"Billy, you're entitled to your opinions," Charlie finally said, trying to calm down, "I don't expect you to change your mind about the Cullens. What I won't tolerate is you insulting my daughter. That's below the belt. As if I could force her to do anything she doesn't want to do. She's made her choice, and it doesn't matter how you feel about it. Sam, as the Alpha, has allowed it by updating that treaty, and that's that."

Charlie looked at his watch. He stood up and started pacing restlessly.

"It's been hours," he grumbled, "I wish we knew what was going on. Why doesn't Jake come back and give us an update?"

"He's probably sticking close to Emily's," Billy guessed, "Protecting Bella. All this crap is about Bella, because of Bella."

"Fuck you, Billy," Charlie leaned over him, "If you weren't stuck in that chair, I'd call you out and kick your ass for that. Bella, through her naïve belief in a better world, brought about an end to an idiotic grudge between two groups of mythical beings. Yeah, it's her fault, her fault for pointing out that prejudice is asinine. I'm fucking proud of her for it, too. Whatever she does in her new life, I know my girl, and I know she will do good things and never hurt another being, if she can ever prevent it."

Billy knew he'd gone too far. He tried to repair the situation.

"Charlie, I," he cleared his throat, "It's those Cullens. They've brainwashed her or something. They are dangerous, and now they've drawn an innocent girl into their dangerous world. None of this would have happened if they'd just stayed away from Forks."

"How can you say that, Billy?" Charlie protested, "The Cullens and the Pack are working together to stop three human killing vampires. If not for Bella's friendship with the Cullens, or her marriage to Edward, none of us would have known about them. Who knows how many people in Forks or the reservation they might have killed if not for the Cullens?"

"That's nonsense," Billy snapped back, "If the Cullens hadn't come here, those nomad vampires might not have stopped at Forks."

"No, they were in the area before they knew that Carlisle and his family were here," Charlie explained, "If not for the Cullens, and the boys of the Pack, there could have been a number of unexplained deaths. Deaths you would have understood and never explained. Now those real monsters are after my daughter, and everyone is ready to stop them from ever hurting another person, forever."

"You can let yourself believe that if you want," Billy said, "I don't buy it."

"I'm sick of arguing with you," Charlie sighed, "We're never going to see eye to eye on this. I think I'll drive over to Emily's and check in with Bella."

"Don't leave, Charlie," Billy said, "I'm sorry if I've upset you, but I have to say what I think."

"The problem is that you've insulted my daughter in the process. I can't listen to that quietly, accept it and pretend like it doesn't matter. If you can't accept her choices, that's ok, you don't have to. But you've crossed lines today, and I won't stay here and listen to anymore. You know my number when you decide to get your head out of your ass."

Charlie slammed out of the house. He got into his cruiser and started the engine, reaching for his cell phone. He called Bella to let her know he was on his way over and pulled away from the little red house, for what he feared might be the last time.

Bella double tapped the end call button on her iPhone and checked the time on her Braille watch.

"Charlie's on his way over," she told Emily, "I guess he and Billy had a big blow up, and Dad decided to come and wait with us. How long should it take him to drive over here?"

"Oh, just a few minutes," Emily said.

"I feel bad about Dad and Billy fighting. They've been friends all their lives. Now, I come along, and they aren't friends anymore."

"You stop that right now, Bella Cullen," Emily said fiercely, "Billy has been needling Charlie for months now, criticizing you, pressuring Charlie to break up your relationship with Edward and the Cullens. He's done just about everything he can to try to come between your dad and you, or him and the Cullen family. Charlie has been patient, trying to understand. But Sam has been saying he expected the breaking point to come soon."

"Why?"

"Because no decent man will stand for someone putting down his daughter like that," Emily answered, "Charlie is loyal to you above anyone or anything else in the whole world. He can take insults to himself or even to the Cullens and try to understand that Billy is the way he is. But if he goes too far in saying anything against you, your dad will only take so much."

Bella was silent, thinking over Emily's words.

"I hoped Billy would come around," she admitted, "After my change, I'll have to stay away from all my human family and friends till I'm under control. I wanted Billy to be there for my dad. He's going to need his friends."

"We'll all help Charlie through that time," Emily promised, "And who knows? Billy may realize his stupidity and put his feelings aside to help his old friend. Don't worry about it now, ok?"

"Yeah, you're right, I guess," Bella sighed, checking her watch again, "Shouldn't Dad be here by now? Why hasn't Jake come in with an update?"

Bella paced around the kitchen, fiddling with her fingers nervously.

"Why don't you go outside and yell at Jacob?" Emily suggested, "You'll feel better if you get some info."

Bella nodded and headed for the front door.

"Jake?" she called as she opened the door, "Jake, any news?"

"Yeah, Bells?" he asked, coming from the side of the house where he'd phased back.

oOo

As James signaled to Victoria and Laurent to begin the fight, he leaped forward to meet Edward. He didn't notice that Laurent stayed still, hands at his side.

"We know you don't want to fight," Carlisle told Laurent, "Step to the side and don't join in, and we won't hurt you. If you make one move to help your companions, we will be forced to deal with you, as we must."

Laurent nodded. He moved to the side of the clearing, trying to make his posture as unthreatening as possible. Carlisle motioned to Esme, who moved to Laurent's side to guard him or comfort him as needed.

"You traitor," Victoria shrieked, lunging toward Laurent.

"Hey, red," Emmett goaded her, "Aren't you fighting the wrong battle?"

Victoria veered away from Laurent.

"I'll take care of you later," she hissed at her former comrade, "James and I will have fun tearing you apart for your betrayal."

Laurent cringed but said nothing, looking away.

Victoria turned to run to help James, but Emmett and Rose came at her from either side, Carlisle at her back. Rose and Emmett grabbed her arms and held her in place.

"My sister is safe," Rose told Victoria gleefully, "We knew you were coming, and we set you up. Alice, remember Alice? She has the gift of foresight, and Edward there, he reads minds."

Victoria snarled and continued struggling to get free, but the three Cullens kept her from escaping.

"We've known you were coming," Emmett continued what Rose had been saying, "We knew Laurent would surrender. We set you up. And now, we have the great pleasure of ending your miserable existence. You should have stayed away, Victoria. James and his need for petty revenge brought you to this."

"We wouldn't have interfered with you and your mate's actions," Carlisle added, "But when you threaten one of us, you threaten us all."

In the middle of the clearing, James and Edward were still fighting. James had always thought he was a strong fighter, but Edward was faster than anyone he'd battled before. Edward could hear his thoughts and countered every move James tried to make.

Jasper and Alice edged closer to the fight, ready to step in and help. Carlisle watched carefully. Though Carlisle hated the necessity of violence, he would not stand by if Edward needed him. Nobody threatened Carlisle's family. He was a vampire, and though he hid the more feral aspects of his vampiric nature under the veneer of humanity he had so carefully created, any danger to his family would turn Carlisle into as strong a fighter as any of the rest of them.

James leaped at Edward, and Edward calmly stepped aside.

"Come on, can't you do better than that?" Edward mocked.

"Damn it, Edward, don't get cocky!" Jasper thought at him.

James snarled and hurled himself at Edward again. He grabbed Edward's arm, smiling triumphantly, thinking he was going to pull the arm off. Jasper jumped in from behind and pulled James off Edward. Alice came and helped him hold James.

Victoria hissed as she watched the fight. She struggled to free herself from Rose and Emmett.

"No way lady," Rose smiled evilly at her, "Stay put and watch what happens to those who try to hurt our family."

James tried to wrench himself away from Jasper. He was sure he could take that kid Edward, if only the others didn't interfere.

"You want to do the honors?" Jasper asked, raising an eyebrow at his brother, "He was after your wife."

"He also tormented your wife," Edward returned, "Would you like the honors?"

"Men," Alice huffed.

"Go for it, Edward," Jasper said.

James growled.

"I'll still get your little human. And if I don't, Victoria will come back."

Edward smiled grimly at him and stalked closer, breathing the next words into his face, his tone a low venomous purr.

"Over my pile of ashes! You'll never be able to hurt another person, and definitely, not my Bella. This ends here. Now."

Edward leaped. He looked very much like the big cats he loved best as his prey. He grasped James, twisting his head in one quick hard motion, pulling his head from his body and dropping it to the ground.

Jasper and Alice took over tearing the body to pieces, the sound of rending metal filling the clearing.

Victoria screamed, a sound of fury and grief. She wrestled out of Rose and Emmett's grasp and threw herself toward Edward, but Emmett and Rose blocked her way.

"I don't think so, sweetheart," Emmett laughed.

In another part of the clearing, Carlisle started a fire and helped to gather the pieces of James ready to burn them, so that he would be completely destroyed.

"You'll all pay for this," Victoria howled, "I'll come back, when you least expect it!"

She tried to run in the direction from which she and James had come, but was faced with five angry vampires, keeping her from a safe escape. She looked over her shoulder to the other side of the clearing, but that was where the strange smell was coming from. She heard heavy heartbeats. They weren't human, some kind of animal. But Victoria was nervous of things she didn't understand, and she hesitated to run that direction.

She whirled and ran toward Laurent, but again, she was blocked by several Cullens. The fire was blocking the other escape route. At last, desperately, Victoria turned and fled toward the place where the animals were. She could return to take her revenge, and in the meantime, she wouldn't let a bunch of strange animals stop her.

Rose and Emmett started after Victoria, but Carlisle held up a hand.

"Let her go," he said, "Sam and the boys are there."

Victoria raced for the cover of the trees, only to be met with five huge snarling wolves. She dodged, trying to evade, preparing to jump into the treetops, where she thought she'd be safe. But before she could move, the largest of the wolves pounced. Victoria grappled with him, as the other beasts surrounded her.

"Paul, Jared, grab the arms," Sam ordered, "Quill, Embry, grab the legs."

The five wolves, working in unison with their shared pack mind, quickly tore Victoria apart.

"Bring the pieces to the fire," Sam told them, "I'm going to phase back and coordinate with the Cullens."

"Jake," Bella grabbed his hand, "Any news?"

"Nothing. They were waiting for the nomads. They're probably fighting now. The bad vamps were about to arrive. Let me phase back so I can find out what's happening."

He started to turn away, but Bella wouldn't let go of his hand.

"Wait, wait," she said desperately, "We have another problem. Charlie called 15 minutes ago and said he was on his way from your house, but he hasn't shown up. It shouldn't take 15 minutes to drive here from there, should it?"

"No, it shouldn't. Why don't you call and see where he is. Maybe he went back in to argue with my dad some more."

Jake's tone was light, teasing, but Bella's nerves were taut, stretched to the breaking point.

"Jacob Black," she snapped, "This isn't one bit funny."

"I'm sorry," he said, "You're right. It's not funny. Got your phone? Try calling your dad."

Bella called Charlie's number but he didn't answer.

"Can't we go look for him?" she begged Jacob, "I'm freaking out here. I need to do something. What if one of the nomads got away and came here and found Charlie?"

"Bella, that doesn't make sense," Jake tried to reason with her, "They can't win against seven vamps and five pack members. Come on."

"But we don't know! Every minute you and I spend arguing is one more minute Charlie could be in danger. What if Laurent came this way? He's a human drinker after all."

"I think the smell of the pack would keep him away."

"But we don't know that for sure," Bella cried, wringing her hands, "Please, Jake, can't we go look for Charlie?"

"I don't have my car here. Wait, Sam has a motorcycle. I'll see if Emily will let me use that. It will be faster than trying to run with you, too."

"Sure, Jake," Emily had come out to join them and heard the end of the discussion.

"I'm coming with you," Bella declared.

"The hell you are," Jake replied, "Bella, I've got to hurry, and I don't have time to teach you how to be a passenger on a motorcycle. We don't have a helmet to fit you or anything."

"It's been 20 minutes now," Bella pleaded, "Something has happened. We don't have time to argue. I'm coming with you."

"Edward's going to kill me," Jake muttered, running with Bella to the garage for the bike.

oOo

In the clearing, the fire was dying down, and clean up was about finished. Carlisle had spent a few minutes talking to Laurent, who had seemed intrigued about the vegetarian vampire lifestyle. In the end, Carlisle suggested that he go to Alaska to stay with the Denali coven, also vegetarians. He thanked everyone for letting him live and set off immediately.

"I didn't even get to tear a piece off of either of them," Emmett groused.

"Ah, my big brave bear," Rose comforted, "You will get another chance someday, I'm sure. I'm just thankful it's over, and that none of us were hurt."

"Hey Edward," Sam called, "Jake's phased back to human, so until Seth can get to him, they don't know that it's over."

"Why don't you start heading that way, son," Carlisle said, "We'll finish up here."

"Thanks, Carlisle," Edward agreed, "Let me try to call her cell."

There was no answer on Bella's cell, and Edward grew concerned. She'd said she'd have the phone with her all day, and he couldn't imagine why she wasn't answering.

"She's not answering," He said, "I wonder—"

Just then, there was an anguished howl from one of the wolves. Everyone turned in that direction, as Sam phased back to check with the pack. Edward had been tuning out the pack mind, but now he focused his attention on it.

"No," Edward cried, "No, no, no, no, my Bella!"

Jake and Bella roared through the quiet roads in La Push. Bella was scared on the bike, but part of her thought it would have been fun, exhilarating, at a happier time. The bike swayed in the wind, but Jake seemed to be able to handle it.

Charlie had been driving from Billy's to Emily's. His temper was still raging against Billy, and he just wanted to get away. Bella needed everyone around her to help her through the waiting, he thought. Hell, he was worried about the Cullens too, particularly Edward. He didn't know if his girl could handle it if anything bad happened to that boy. He signaled and turned right.

"Shit," he yelled, stomping on the brakes.

There was a tree fallen across the road.

"Probably the damn wind," Charlie grumbled, turning off the car.

He sat there a minute, wondering what to do. He could go around another way he supposed. But the tree was a driving hazard. There was a curve down the road, and someone coming from that direction might not see the tree in time to stop.

"Hope to hell I've got flares here somewhere," he said.

He searched in the trunk for a few minutes, finally finding the flares under a bunch of other things, blankets, first aid kits, spare tire and jack.

He tried to get the flares lit, the wind hampering his attempts. He swore and tried again. He heard his cell phone ring, but he was busy and couldn't get back to the car to answer it.

"Leave a message," he muttered, trying again with the flares.

"Hang on, we've got a big curve up ahead," Jake yelled to Bella.

He pushed the bike to its limit, racing around the curve.

"Shit, shit, shit!' Jake shouted, trying to stop the bike in time.

He saw the tree across the road, saw Charlie's car on the other side of the tree, saw Charlie drop a flare.

"Bella!' Charlie cried.

Jake couldn't stop. The front tire hit the tree, flipping, bouncing, sending its passengers flying into the air. Jake phased in mid air, his shout turning into a howl of anguish, as he saw Bella's body hit a tree on the side of the road and crumple on the ground beneath it.

"No! No!" Charlie screamed, jumping over the tree and running to where she lay, broken and bleeding.

As Jake phased, the wolves in the clearing saw the whole thing, saw Bella hit the tree, saw as Jake watched in horror, saw Charlie collapse beside her.

"No, no, no, my Bella!" Edward sobbed.

He turned and ran, treaty or no treaty, he was going to her. He would not be kept away.

Sam quickly explained to the others what they had just seen through Jake.

"Sam, you've got to let us on the reservation," Carlisle said, "We've got to get to her before it's too late."

"You have my permission," Sam agreed, "We'll go with you. We will protect Bella and all of you."

"Rose, Esme, run back to the house and get my bag. Bring the Mercedes. Jasper, Emmett, go with Edward. Keep him together till we get there."

They all ran to do his bidding.

Charlie and Jake knelt beside Bella. Charlie tried to evaluate her condition, but he was almost too distraught to concentrate.

"Bells, I'm sorry," Jake moaned desperately, "I didn't see it in time. I'm so fucking sorry!"

Tears fell down his cheeks.

"No—problem," Bella panted, "Don't blame you, Jake."

"Hang on, honey," Charlie wept, "Carlisle is on his way. Edward's coming. He'll be here any minute. I love you, baby, hang on for us. You hear me?"

"Dad?" Bella's voice was weak.

"I'm here, Bells."

"Hurts," she whimpered, "Everywhere. Hurts to breathe. Where's Edward?"

"He's coming," Jake told her, "Everyone's coming."

"The—treaty?"

"Sam gave them permission," Jake assured her, "He's running back with Edward, I heard, before I phased back. They'll be here any minute. You know your man can run like the wind."

She tried to smile, but it looked like a grimace due to the pain.

"Bella, Bella!" Edward called as he approached the spot, "I'm here, love, I'm here."

He ran to kneel beside her, his eyes rapidly taking in her injuries. She looked like a broken doll. He took her hand.

"Edward?" Bella asked, "I, I can't feel my legs."

Carlisle arrived just then. He moved Charlie out of the way gently and began to examine Bella.

"Bella, it's me, Carlisle," he told her, "I'm going to examine your injuries, sweetheart."

"I think it's bad, Carlisle," she murmured, "Can't feel my legs, hurts to breathe. I feel weird."

"I know. Hold on for us, ok?"

Jake turned pleading eyes to Edward.

"I didn't see it," he cried, "I didn't mean to—"

Edward laid a hand on Jacob's shoulder.

"I know man."

Edward turned to look at his father.

"Carlisle?"

"Can you do anything, Doc?" Charlie asked.

Carlisle finished examining Bella and looked up at the circle of distressed faces surrounding him. He was grim and sad. He rose to his feet, taking Charlie and Edward aside.

"Ok, it's not good," Carlisle explained, "Her back is broken for sure. She'll be paralyzed from the waist down, if she survives. She has many broken bones, broken ribs. I think a broken rib has punctured a lung, and she's got internal bleeding. We're lucky she didn't hit her head, or she would have died before we could have gotten here."

He looked long at Edward and then turned to lay a hand on Charlie's shoulder.

"I don't want to tell you this," Carlisle continued, "I'm sorry. But Bella can't survive this. She's dying. Her injuries are too extensive. She couldn't make it through surgery, and I don't think we'd even have time to get her to the hospital anyway. I'm frankly surprised she's conscious."

Charlie began to cry.

Edward sank to his knees, his heart aching with grief.

"You know what you've got to do," Charlie turned to Edward, "You can save her."

"It's the only way, son," Carlisle agreed, "I know this isn't how you wanted it to happen, but either you change her, or she will die in the next few minutes."

"Edward," Bella's feeble voice reached him, "Love—you—Edward."

Edward moved back to his wife. He looked at her beautiful face. He stroked her hair softly, bending to kiss her lips. He listened to her heart, fluttering weakly, as it tried to keep her alive.

"It's time, Edward," she said.

"Are you sure, my love?"

"I'm—sure."

The family had all arrived, and they all stood around them, grief filling them all for the girl they had loved so much. In their own ways, they would all miss her humanity, even as they would welcome her as one of them.

"Do we have time to take her to our house first?" Edward asked Carlisle.

"No, son. Trying to run with her now would only hasten the end. If you're going to do it, it has to be now."

"I love you, Bells," Charlie choked, kissing her head, as he had so often done, "I'll be waiting when you're able to come around me again."

"Love you, Daddy."

Charlie turned to Carlisle.

"Will I be able to be with her during the, the transformation?" he asked.

"Yes, if you can stand it," Carlisle said, "She will be in terrible pain though. Do you want to see her like that?"

"If Edward and the rest of you can handle it, I think I can."

"Very well," Carlisle agreed, "But when we tell you that it is time to leave, you must take us seriously. When the process is nearly over, you must leave, just in case."

Charlie nodded, kissing Bella one more time and then rising to leave.

"Stop!'

Everyone but Edward, Carlisle and Charlie whirled at the angry shout. Billy Black came toward them, pushing his wheelchair as hard as he could.

"You will not do this here on our lands. I forbid it!"

Sam moved to block Billy's way.

"Billy, I've given my permission for this," he said sternly, "You can't stop it."

"You're a traitor to your people, Sam Uley," Billy said, "Not only agreeing to this travesty, but you've allowed Cold Ones on our lands. You should be ashamed."

Charlie stood and went to Billy. He turned Billy's chair around, facing away from where Bella lay.

"Edward," Charlie called over his shoulder, "Do what you have to do. Save my daughter as only you can."

Angrily, he pushed Billy down the road, back toward his home. Charlie knew he didn't want to watch Edward bite Bella anyway, and he thought that dealing with Billy once and for all was the best way he could help.

"I don't care what you think or say," he told his old friend, "You can hate me all you want after this, but I've asked Edward to save Bella the only way she can be saved. I'll do anything I have to do to keep you from interfering."

"Charlie, please, don't do this," Billy begged, "You can't—"

"Oh I can all right," Charlie interrupted, "And I will. I won't let my daughter die to satisfy your prejudice. Billy, if I had it in my power to save your son, if the circumstances were reversed, I'd do anything to help you save your son. You know that. Don't stand in the way of my daughter's life or death. Accept this, for god's sake."

Billy hung his head in defeat.

"I only hope you never live to regret this," Billy sighed.

Charlie continued pushing Billy, till they were able to turn a corner and were out of sight and sound of the things going on at the accident site.

"We'll leave as soon as Bella is safe to be moved," Carlisle promised Sam, "Once we know the venom has started its work, and her heart can handle it, we will take her back to our home."

"Go ahead, Edward," Sam said.

The family gathered around, each of them touching Bella, kissing her cheek, holding her hand.

Esme hugged Edward.

"You can do this," she told him.

"Carlisle, you'll be right here?" Edward asked, "Emmett, Jas, you'll stop me if I, if I can't stop?"

"You'll be fine," Carlisle assured him, "You'll never hurt her. You'll be able to stop, and we're all here with you both."

"See you soon little sister," Jasper said, "We'll take care of you."

Edward bent to kiss Bella one more time.

"I'm sorry, sweet girl," he whispered to her, "I'm sorry for the pain this will cause you. I love you."

"I love you," Bella breathed the words soundlessly.

She reached out a hand to touch him, letting her fingers slide down his arm weakly.

Edward laid his head on her chest for one brief second, just to hear one last heartbeat.

Edward kissed her again. He looked a long moment at her face. He kissed her cheeks and eyes. He kissed her lips one more time, and then, he bent to her neck.

"Forgive me," he cried.

Holding his breath, whispering a wordless plea for help and strength, to God, or Carlisle, or the universe—he wasn't sure to whom he prayed — Edward bit into her neck.

End Notes

After this chapter, I will be posting the outtake I wrote for the fandom4lls compilation a few months ago. It was a future take, and the timing is immediately after this chapter. It is Charlie POV, and the format is quite different from the main story, so I haven't decided if I will post as an outtake or as a regular chapter. Just in case, put me on author alert, because it is important and covers the next events in the story. If I don't post it as a regular chapter, it is only because of the complete format change, including first person and present tense. Look for it in about a week, as I need to edit it and make sure it matches up to the events in this chapter. I think it's one of the best things I've written.

Recs

Singularity, by Openhome

First story in a trilogy about Alice, then Alice and Jasper. Incredibly written and detailed, the saga goes from Alice's human life through life with the Cullens. I was blown away by this story, and the author is incredibly talented. Give it a shot.

http:/www . fanfiction . net/s/5295249/1/Singularity

A Change in Direction, by Jayeliwood

I had been out of work for so long and I had no idea what I was going to do next. Things aren't going the way I thought they would when I finished college.

Sometimes you just have to go in the direction life takes you, and pray for the best...

This author has written many Twi fics, all delightful. She'd been away from the fandom for nearly a year, and I literally squealed when I got the alert for a new story. If you've never read her stuff, you are in for a genuine treat!

http:/www . fanfiction . net/s/7631766/1/A_Change_in_Direction