Jane's retelling.

Flames. For so long that single burst of energy enticed a response that sent me into ecstasy. From how they sparkle and glitter, flickering and licking about. To the various colors. Fire has an entire rainbow of hue that can destroy anything in its path. Despite their nature, I've never quite seen them as evil but transformative. Not everything can be love and light to bring in change. Some things must burn. Yet this sensation. This pain I feel aching white hot. Reminded me of...Every nerve fired in synchronization. My muscles stretched like rubber bands until they popped. My skin tugged tautly against my aged bones. Yet that wasn't the most horrible aspect. All eyes were on me. Especially a pair of brown ones stuck in the head of a ghost. Oh, this one seems to hate me and I know why. She's felt these flames too. I see them reflected in her eyes. She longs to be consumed by them. Just as I am now. Under the scrutiny. I felt exposed. My natural instinct was to run and hide. I went against it chased after the most lovely scent drifting behind the princess, the ghost and I long for. She was dashing away towards a scream. The scent that lingers reminds me of blood oranges...and grapefruits and sunshine on a warm summer's day. Funny thing was. For the first time in eons. I didn't have the urge to kill my prey. I was stalking her.

She has no idea how vulnerable she is to me or she simply doesn't care. I decided to just take in the air around her. Enjoy her delightful aroma. Mmm. Is that Fear? She reeks of it in excess. Poor thing. I've grown fond of that particular pheromone. The way it wafts and beacons a taste. That normally sweet scent on her smells foul. I couldn't understand, oh dear, what is this emotion? These. Feelings. I can't quite make out why she's affecting me this way. I'm aware of a certain issue that she and I have, but it shouldn't be this. Potent. This persuasive. The first chance I get, I'm kicking Stregoni or whatever he goes by these days, right in his gonads. It must be whatever he struck me with that's making me so. Uncouth. Am I under a spell?! Some sort of strange craft unknown to my knowledge?! I can hear my mother now. 'I told you so', ugh. I hated her prophecies then and I can't stand them now!

There's no point in running from this. I know it will happen. Most of all with these new, changes? It's bound to happen much sooner than I expected. Ugh. Why won't she just calm down?! A horrible urge to pass out swarmed my senses all while she just stands there. All choked up. It's a jarring reveal to how confident and steadfast she holds herself in danger. Ah, she feels guilty and remorseful for all these lost souls. How pitiful but slightly interesting. I wasn't aware she had such a bleeding heart. An annoyance of another scream sent that already thumping organ. Silent. Sweat beads fall to the floor near her feet. She was frozen. Shaking in her little boots. I felt in a helping mood and tried to roust her attitude and soothe her. If only to soothe my own nervousness.

"Well. What are we waiting for?"

She didn't respond. Just kept standing there. We were alone. Except for the dead. A breeze blowing through the graying stone hall sent chills down my spine. A distant call of my name could be heard on the breath of spirits outside that longed to peel me back and feast on my sinew. She stepped in the direction of the screams and I followed. With each step, we took more eyes dragged with whispers on their tongues. I wasn't afraid but she was. Especially once we found the culprit of that incessant noise. It was a Cullen. The blonde-haired maiden we call her. Mostly because of her allure, it's quite useful if used correctly. Although they don't drink...huh? In that thought. I noticed that that unending burn was absent. I didn't. I don't. I'm not sure what's going on but I don't seem to desire blood at all. I'm not sure how I feel about that notion. I'm still annoyed about Carlisle and his tampering.

Unfortunately, my edging attitude affronted the princess and she immediately left to console her. Sister. Do I have to be nice to them now? I huffed and continued to pay attention to the Royal pain in my butt. I relaxed against the doorway and stared amicably at hers. I could work with that. A spirit nearby was gawking along with me. They follow her around like moths to flame. No wonder her heart is always bleeding for them. They are leaching. Feeding from her. That's a concern, especially with this sickness that's now spreading. I'm already dreading this. I loathe love. It's done nothing but give me regrets, pain, and a headache. I'll be damned if she dies before I get a chance to tango with her.

-She's a pretty one. Don't you think?-

-Oh, yes. Quite the beauty. I've heard she's the queen. I wonder if she'll live.-

I ignored the whispers. I've always heard them. Seen them. Felt them. I can't stand the dead. They linger and fester and poison. They continued to prattle on about Alexandra. I rolled my eyes at my inner voice. It's already starting. I sound. Ill. All besotted and hungry for her touch. Bleh! In my distraction, the blonde maiden was being carried my way. I sidestepped as she neared. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the princess filled with dread and I...felt bad. She cares for this one. She doesn't look all that well. I wanted to throw up. Why me?! What could I have possibly done to have deserved this? Don't answer that! I huffed and glared at anyone that even attempted to near me. As I slid down and smacked my head against the wall to watch her. I caught sight of someone watching me and I felt the itch to kill. I remember her. Uh... a Denali. Yes. She's the one that tried to fry my brother. Understandably so, we had just murdered her mother and that immortal babe. In the end, it was she that limped away harmed. A throb in my chest burst. I ignored it. But it was continuous. Alec... if this part is true then that means he won't have long. At least he will get what he desires. I haven't been blind to his unsatisfaction with life. He's only held on this long for me. Despite being older, he's always been the elder sibling. Watching over me. Being here is bringing up things I had long since laid to rest. I'm fed up!

One of the other Denali's was nearing Alex and I sat up straight to make sure they didn't get any funny ideas. The other noticed my reaction and was intrigued. I tried to feign as if I was just uncomfortable but I'm sure I failed. Damn it. I'd rather it be known she's not to be even looked at wrong than to hide and she potentially ends up hurt by my enemies. They winked at me in taunt. This could be fun. It's been a while since I've had a proper duel. Especially with a challenging opponent. I'd love to stretch my fingers. I lit them and that's all it took for them to settle. I see. They weren't expecting my magic to be restored. Neither was I but it's a satisfactory turn of events. Thanks love.

Oops. It seems I had the wrong one. The coven leader and the electric lady don't seem to want to harm Alexandra. But the taller one does. She's hungry. I was just about to stand up as I watched her fangs dare threaten the princess. I wasn't needed at all as she collapsed into the arms of her coven leader and was escorted out, I didn't miss the lingering eyes as they passed me. I'll need to be careful and watch my back. I didn't like the way she looked at me. As if she's dying of thirst and I'm a tall glass of cold water. She was envious too. Almost desperately so.

My stomach rumbled. That nauseous boiling continued to ache. If I don't feed soon I genuinely might keel over. I stood too quickly and almost fell, this is getting on my nerves, I raced over to the princess and instantly felt better. She hadn't noticed I was near so I lightly tapped her shoulder. Instead of giving me the respect I deserve by giving me her full attention she flung her hair at me and exposed a pointed ear. I was slightly mesmerized as I whispered into it and noticed it twitch.

"I'm starving."

"People aren't food here."

She was callous and mocking in attitude. I was deeply amused by the little fairy. By the sheer confusion. She's yet to feel it. I at least had her full attention now.

"I'll get you something in a second."

"Just trick them. The ones that faint are sick. The ones that don't. Are fine."

I held back another laugh. I didn't want her to think that I was making fun of her. She was feeling sheepish for not having thought of my idea on her own. She's adorable when flustered and out of place. The atmosphere around us felt charged. I was growing less confident by the second.

"Thanks."

Her eyes were trailing down my body. I felt. On display. I couldn't help by feel awkward in my new form and tried to appear as at ease as I could muster. My anxieties and desire to disappear came back. In the end, I was as frigid as a board and almost smacked her on impulse when touched unexpectedly. I felt ashamed.

"I'm sorry."

"I don't like to be touched."

"Understandable. Is there anything you'd like in particular?"

I was perplexed. There's many things I'd love to do but. Eating? Huh. It's been so long. In the time it took for me to decide. I simply conceded and told her the truth.

"I don't remember what foods I like."

She leaned closer to me and for a second I let my guard down and attempted to allow her. I was tempted to even touch but the moment was snatched and fear won out. She quickly dashed off at the beck of someone else and I traced along with. I was sort of grateful as I was able to spy her in her natural habitat. Helping others. As long as she was at service to someone the angsty fear was nowhere to be found. Once it was my turn. We were once again alone trailing down a dark corridor until a marvelous scent overpowered her and I couldn't contain myself anymore. Upon entry of the kitchens. I spotted yet another Cullen and who I believe is a relative. An aunt of hers. I'm not sure of her name but she was awfully curious about me. They moved out of my way as I flitted around to serve myself. I naturally was put on point and felt the need to assert my dominance in form as I sat down to devour my meal. The dark broth was thick and creamy. I could taste rosemary and garlic and cheese and oh the meat was prepared to perfection. The potatoes melted in my mouth. The aftertaste was sort of spicy and burnt in my nose. I had completely forgotten where I was as I devolved into a mess of pleasure. It wasn't until I heard her soft words that I was jolted back to reality and remembered. I felt defensive for not having been aware of my surroundings. I hadn't meant to snap at her. Im just. I'm not used to all this yet. Memories of where I had been all these years... this robe, it's the last remaining pieces of, I'm still adjusting to this new way of being.

"Why did you bring him to me?"

I immediately relaxed. She wasn't offended. I tried not to beat myself up and gently explained why we are here. Which in truth is a much different story all together. She's not ready to know. Frankly, I'm not either. So I'll be brief.

"My mother told me to."

"I don't understand."

"I was told a story. A vision. It was. It doesn't matter. Just. Please help him. I know that I don't deserve it. He's all I have left and technically. You owe me."

"I owe you?"

"Mhm. I could have killed you that day. I was impressed by your flames. I wanted to keep seeing them. Despite orders. You weren't strong enough to hold them. Your core had almost burnt to a crisp... "

I left out that in my desire to watch them burn. I was trying to run from this moment. If she died. Well... Alec wasn't too happy about it. I was deeply scolded for treating her so unkindly. I explicitly told him that I was under orders and asked what would he have me do. Defy Aro? Risk someone else having to harm her? He didn't have much else to say after.

"Well then. Thanks."

"You're welcome."I winced at the memory. I do regret it now. Although they were pretty. Filled with all the colors but most of all. She had begun bleeding. Her scent then reminded me of candy. It was pure mouth-watering deliciousness. I recall delighting in a small taste once she had escaped and we were ordered to clean. As I swirled my bread around to pick up the last of the soup. I reveled in the memory and allowed myself to enjoy. I knew that I had been heard when I noticed she had sent her bowl my way.

"Thanks. I'm ravenous!"

"I see that. There is more."

"I'll take some to go."

I know what you're thinking. She's my. Intended...I can't stay. She's been doing just fine without me this long. There's no need to change that. Besides. I'm not sure I can deal with the others. That's something my dear mother left out.

"Where are you going?"

"Home."I impulsively replied.

"The village?" I didn't miss the tone. I had forgotten. I don't have a home. I don't have anywhere to be and once my brother is gone. I'll have no one left. I took a moment of silence to let that information settle. I was aware of her eyes wandering yet again. She's been staring at me a lot. I was just about to snap at her again when she said something that I hadn't expected.

"You can stay."

"Sure. You say that now. What happens when your words get twisted by the opinions of another? There are several here who would love nothing more than to see my insides. I'll take my brother and a meal to go... unless I am a prisoner?"

She was shocked by my candidness. It's unfortunate but we both know. Even if I could get over sharing her with others. Even if I could get over myself and my genuine fear of intimacy. It could never work. She's the people's princess and I am not one of them. In fact several of her 'friends' are enemies of mine, so. No.

"I'll get started on that for you," The Cullen kindly spoke for the princess. She's been watching my every move. But most importantly she's been watching Alex. Seeing how we interact in peace. If she hasn't caught on. It's only a matter of time. I doubt the others will be ok with it. The princess finally graced me with her response and dared to ask a forbidden question. If it was anyone else. I'd lie.

"I fell in love."

"Really?"

"Mhm."

"Care to tell the story?"

"You know what? For you? I will."

Hmm. This story is painful. It's one I can't seem to not think about since being here. One that has haunted me. One that has set me deep in my ways and has turned my heart against love and friendship. It's why I must not stay. She deserves kindness, gentility... I've burnt those things right out a long time ago.

"His name. I'm trying to remember but it's so. Distant. Ah. Yes. Kenneth...Gambit? No. Graham. He was a smart boy. Brilliant actually. Sweet too. At first. He was shy though. Incredibly so, but then so was I. He was tall. Not too tall. But taller than me, well, at that age. I seem to be. Older now? More my age? I'm not sure. But back then. I was a small fry as I'm sure you remember. Oh, I loved everything about him... especially his big brown eyes. They were so dark. Almost like deep wells. Lord knows I fell deep into them. He betrayed me...he paid a heavy price but then. So did I."

Ah. I couldn't stop myself from getting choked up and thinking of. I never named my child. I shed a tear for them. I never even knew the sex in order too. I don't know what's worse, knowing that I'm sitting right next to her. Telling her about the very reason I can't stay. Or, remembering how he knew about her. Oh yes. I told him in passing of a tale my mother spun about my intended. That I'd know it was them almost immediately. I had thought. I had sworn. It wasn't him. I had given myself to another and now I can't give myself to the one I should. It's so interesting how fate decides to unfold. Nearing the end of my story. I had captured the room. Especially the Cullen. I should learn their proper names. I just know she's mated to Stregoni. I've heard of her story, of losing a child, of how it sent her into insanity. Her eyes were softer as she stared at me. I felt annoyed. I found that it would be easier to distract rather than to request she stop looking at me. Ah. She's holding my to-go cup.

"Is that mine?"

"Oh. Um. Yes, dear."

Yikes. It seems that earlier fear is gone and what is left is some sort of empathy? Pity? No. Oh no. She's treating me like one of her own. Like a child, she cares for. I desperately just wanted to shrink. I can't stand. People. Emotions. I honestly do better when I'm allowed to be. Alone. Well as alone as being a twin allows...I took a deep breath in and tried not to cry.

"Hey, do you mind coming with me downstairs? I'd rather keep an eye on you."

I spilt a seem. Oh, little princess.

"What makes you think I'd harm you?"

"You shot an arrow at my head."

"I was under orders. I'm not anymore."

"So if we can't save your brother. You'll just waltz right out of here?"

"I have no doubt in my mind. You'll be able to save Alec. My mother said so."

"You said that already..."

Rather than open that can of worms. I decided I'd just put her mind at ease. I stood up and demanded that she follow. I carefully held her hand in mine and stared at the lines. There's so many stories held in them. So much pain. I spit right onto the marriage line and vowed to keep her safe. Vowed to never ever hurt her again.

"I hereby submit that I won't harm you."

My breath caught once she allowed herself to finally meet my eyes. I understood what my mother meant. I could see myself reflected inside them. I caught sight of a moment. A fraction of time. I could see how I was meant to fall in her arms and be cradled in her love. The shared moment ended quickly as mommy dearest finally saw it too. Lady Cullen stood off to the side clutching pearls as Alexandra quickly wiped my saliva away and drifted physically. She quickly exited. I wasn't far behind. Once alone I was tempted to reach for her hand to hold just as the electricity went out. An exacerbated draw of breath caught my attention. She's holding in so much.

"The exorcism has begun."

"How can you tell?"

Rather than explain that I can feel my brother dying. I simply entwined our fingers and kept moving us forward. I noticed she felt unsure about her steps. It is rather dark. A trail of white flames led up my arm to light her way. Hmm. That's new. I've never had access to this color before. Red of course, black, blue, green... I flamed purple once. But never white. This must be something else she's gifted me with. The varying colors correspond to heat yes but also with what creatures can be affected. My hellfire specifically targets the undead or left behind. While her white flames are more likened to the level of the sun. Nothing can withstand the pressure. Not even I. They stung as I attempted to contain it.

Everything was smooth sailing until we were at the entrance of the dungeon. A pair of heavy stone doors that were inlaid with several protective spells. Whatever is behind them was meant to stay put. She just haphazardly tossed the doors open. I sensed it. The being that's lurking below. The spirit was dangling from the ceiling. Lying in wait. Before it could even try and harm her. I sent it to its long-awaited slumber. I forced her behind me. There were several malevolent beings just trapped. I began to understand the reason. They are feeding the house. Whoever has ownership has found a way to harness the dead almost like batteries. It's ingenious. It must be why the wards here are so strong. We eventually came upon a makeshift hospital where several of the sick were moaning and groaning about. Alexandra took off leaving me standing alone while she was frantically searching for the blonde maiden. I caught the eyes of Stregoni. He was too busy to engage but I could tell he was examining me. Dissecting me like one of his cadavers. I was never fond of his work back then. I decided to follow Alex. I found her bent over the blonde maiden. My first reaction was to scold her for being so close without any safety gear on. I refrained.

The maiden doesn't look well. If I had to guess it's possible she is patient zero. I just barely passed my eyes over the Denali that is lucky Alexandra was so quick with that spell work otherwise she'd have been a pretty mess on the walls. On second thought. I believe it was she that must have contracted it first and spread it to the rest. In order to fix this, the spirit must be found and their ashes ground into a fine powder. It's the main ingredient for the potion that is meant to cure them. That must be what's taking so long. With this many dead. There's no telling which one is due to be roasted. The mate to the blonde was growing impatient. Bouncing his foot as Alexandra explained the symptoms. His emotional outburst sent my protective nature into overdrive and I sparked. I immediately put them out. But that's all it took for him to notice the bond. His mood tempered out of respect but Alexandras peaked. She was upset with me. I need to remain calm.. we need to leave this area. I'm too emotionally charged. She's not safe! I was stuck in the corner of the cell tapping my foot in annoyance. It put the Denali coven leader on edge. When I was given an order by the princess. I understood it was mostly to calm them down but it fed my anxiety. I had no choice but to do as she asked. I didn't have to like doing it but I figured it wouldn't do to argue with her in this state. I guess I'll just go ask Stregoni for ice.

The further away from her I got. The more I felt the eyes watching me, all of them were simply waiting to get me alone. To feast on what's left of my soul. I was grateful to have bumped into a slightly familiar face. It was the lady from upstairs. She very kindly agreed to help me with my task, while I stood waiting for said ice. She decided to interrogate as she slowly packed a bag. The ice clinked.

"Are you sure you don't want anything else to wear, there's some scrubs?"

In all honesty, I should take up her offer. Despite the inside being lined with fur and it once having draped the floor, my robe fit more like a dress and doesn't do much for the chill. I still declined. As silly as it is. I feel safer with it on. Like it's a security blanket keeping me from harm.

"Does Alex seem alright to you? She seems nervous..."The woman was surprised by my inquiry. She carefully zipped the bag closed and handed it over before clearing her throat and replying.

"She's... I don't know. I'm not sure if I ever did. I can say that Bella has a lot to do with her attitude now but it wasn't much better before. Why do you ask?"

"The sickness..." she didn't seem to believe me. " That and well, I noticed that the swan girl is in Volterra. I'm aware of how close they were. Alex seems stuck in grief over her departure don't you think?"

"How much do you know about my niece and what are your motives? Don't lie."

"I know everything about her. It was my duty to study her inside and out. However, I had a personal stake in the matter. Don't worry. I have no intention of... she needs a friend right now and I understand that."

"If you're asking me how to get on her good side. I suggest you leave her alone."

"I wouldn't hurt her."

"I know you won't, you're going to go as soon as your brother is well enough. That girl has been through enough and never makes the right choice...just stay away!"

The angry expression on her face felt personal. Almost as if she was talking about someone else that had chosen wrongly. Another question was on the tip of my tongue but instead, I thanked her for the ice and excused myself. As I wandered around trying to find my way back to Alex. I pounded my brain for reasons to escape. To convince myself to just go. To just drop everything and disappear. It would be the responsible thing to do. To obey the warning bestowed and to leave Alexandra be. There she was. Deep in the trenches of lost souls. Her arms were hanging loosely at her sides. Her back was strained as if she was struggling to stand. She was breathing the foul air in with a wheeze. As if each breath weighed a ton. She was run down. I'd be neglecting her if I left. It was settled. I moved closer to her and she jumped. Her heart pulsed like a racehorse. The ice was dropped as I panicked and immediately began checking her over for signs of the illness. She wasn't happy about it and felt shame for her reaction. My hands were firmly swatted away.

"Im fine!"

"Are you sure?"

"How long do you think it will take for them to penetrate the wards?"

Oh. She feels it too. The longing of death pulling. It threatening to play with us all. The liminal space between the afterlife has thinned significantly in the past hour. The spirits here are ramping up to something and I'm quite scared it's to do with her. "Do you want the truth or a lie?"

She didn't give me a second glance and huffed off. My, she's fickle and fiesty. She began to run and I felt the need to chase right after the little fairy...we came to an abrupt stop at the top of the stairs. Here she stood frozen but unafraid. She recollected herself before calmly prancing toward the ballroom. We didn't make it but a few feet before I was yet again ordered to be away from her. She hesitantly marched off toward Alice Cullen and the electric lady. They were deep in argument. I attempted to pick up what was being said and couldn't. I'm still not convinced she's safe but I at least knew she wouldn't be harmed in such a public place, especially with a Cullen around. I should get started on those sigils. It took approximately a single minute for my peace to be disturbed by the Denali. She was aggressively posted up against the wall I was working on.

"I don't need a fight but if you start one. It won't end until I'm satisfied."

"I used to think of all the ways I'd split you open if I ever saw you again. I bet you don't even remember who I am."

"I remember every victim of mine; I killed your coven mother. I won't apologize or attempt to make amends."

"You killed a child!"

"One that was forbidden to be made! You should have stopped her but no, you allowed her to endanger herself and you."

"Do you hear yourself?"

"Yes... I am aware of all I have done. Of what I was ordered to do whether I wanted to or not. It's not an excuse. I began to enjoy the pain I inflicted as the years drifted and I forgot the ways of my people. I'm not proud of it but rules are rules. Be thankful that I could save you. My mas... Aro wanted all your heads."

"It would have been kinder if you hadn't."

"You don't mean that."

"Don't you dare presume to know..."

"I know you don't, because you're here. Despite the pain of losing loved ones, you're still here. You could have ended it a long while ago. Yet you didn't. Don't squander the gift of life by holding on to the dead. They are gone... she isn't."

We both took a second to see them. Alexandra was deeply affected by her sibling's emotional state. The electric lady didn't even try and deny our similar situations. Instead, she asked me a question. One that was to be expected.

"How?"

"By choosing to live in the moment. No matter how hard it is to slip into the past."

"Will you do the same?"

"I'm still learning to take my advice."

"If I see that little girl, she won't live. Try to be a better woman. For her sake."

"You care for her. Why?"

"I see a young woman that is plagued by choices. Ones that she holds regret of."

"You see yourself."

"I see who I wish I had been when it mattered most. She's special. Remember that. I'll try... to move on. For my sake."

The electric lady didn't linger too much longer. I rushed my job and left to seek out answers. To seek out the end. It wasn't hard to find them. My brother was housed on the top floor. It was cold. Almost as cold as I once was. That's the strangest thing about my transformation. I can feel my heartbeat. Just as clearly as I can't feel his. It was almost over. I was too chicken to brave the rest of the way alone and waited. I knew she'd find me. I could hear her timid footsteps crunching against the creaky wood. Once I was able to see her. I could clearly tell how fearful she was. How hurt. She hides it well through a mask of anger but I know all too well how heartache slows the mind. She was shocked to see me waiting.

"I figured this would be the next stop."

"Have you been inside?"

I couldn't bring myself to utter words. She decided to take the lead and snagged my hand. I was dragging behind until we were standing right in the doorway of the library. There he was. As frozen in time as he has always been. I didn't get a chance to eye him too long as her other. Intended. Felt it kind to abuse his gifts to pry my mind open. He wasn't amused by what he must have found. I quickly assuaged.

"I've sworn to not harm her."

"I see that."

Alexandra drifted until she stood directly in front of the circle, her eyes were pressed to Whitlock. He's my biggest concern. Edward is more irritating but he's easy to manage. I shared a small moment with him during his brief time in Volterra. We chatted openly about Alex. Mostly about who she was to him... I was thoroughly shocked to find she hadn't died. He was so sure. So painstakingly sure. It's partially why I was so quick to try and end her then. I had grieved her.

"Where's Clara?"

I was immediately drawn to her as she spoke aloud. The woman she's conversing with seems familiar for some reason. I couldn't place it. I'm sure I hadn't crossed paths but she reminds me of someone.

"We got into an argument."

"Is this about the baby?"

Several books fell to the floor as the emotional toll of the information created havoc. One was shot directly toward Edward. He's still watching me. I can taste his fear from here. There's no reason for it. I can't harm him either, as that would be a direct pain for Alexandra. I took a deep breath in and tried to ignore the growing migraine. Is it wrong if I'm ready for this to be over? He's done! He's been tired for so long. Just let him die.

"Is my mate ok?"

"I'm checking his vitals kitty. He's fine. His thoughts are disjointed but he's not being harmed. Alec is, he's stuck."

"Thank you."

Why am I surprised? It must be that creature in his mind keeping him here.

"Does that mean Jasper is stuck too?"

"He's not being harmed."

"Yet you mean."

Her wavering tone broke my heart. Here I am hoping for death while she's suffering for life. I'd be honest and just tell them to wake Whitlock so I can end this. But I know I'm not the only one with family in that noggin. I know the demon is her mother. I even know all she's done to hurt her daughter. While I carefully stepped toward Alexandra. I could feel not just Edward trying to reach me but something else. Someone else from my past is here. Someone that shouldn't be. I decided to rest near her rather than right next to her.

"Have you seen him?"

"He's around. So is her father."

"I told Clara he wouldn't stay away."

"Eric can handle your mother."

We all were concerned of the outcome. Our eyes were pinned on the three stuck in that unforgiving ring of protection. It was Alexandra that lost interest first and left to sit as close to Whitlock as possible. Along the way, she picked up several of the books that had fallen. To busy herself she attempted to read one. As she tossed it at her feet. I couldn't stand it anymore. Edward be damned. I carefully stepped over her legs and plopped right next to her. I wasn't rebuffed. That's a start. We both just kept to ourselves, although I could tell that something was bothering her. I made the first move by asking.

"It's nothing really, Um, I just want to thank you for being such a help. You didn't have to but it was a relief. I've also noticed that you're. You're following me. Like everywhere I go. Is it because you're lonely? Or...I mean my aunts a twin."

"Oh, if you're wondering if twin telepathy is a thing. It is. It's exhausting. I had no time alone. Ever. Although that's not why I've been following behind you.

"You won't tell me. Will you? "

"Someday."

"I'll hold you to that."

"Tell me something about your lover."

She was instantly uncomfortable. She fidgeted around until she just blurted out.

"I'm sorry."

"Why would you say that?"

"I know it was she that. Isabella has taken her throne... Aro's throne. You seemed close or I mean. I just don't understand. You know? Why would she do this to me? To herself? I just, she's got a funny way of showing her love. It hurts. A lot."

"If I'm honest. Aro was more of a tyrant than a friend. Caius, well, that's a long story. Although I will miss Marcus, he was kind to me. We understood each other. As for Swan. Some can only love as much as they love themselves."

"Did you ever forgive him? For what he did to you?"

"I held the blade that sliced his throat. I watched as he choked and sputtered for air as he drowned in his fluids. It was my brother that spared him mercy and ended his suffering. But while it lasted? Yes."

"I don't think I can do that."

"I've seen you in action."

"It's different when you love them."

"Ah. That is true. Even then I still loved him but not as much as I loved my child."

We grew somber and changed the subject. She mostly asked questions that pertained to how I was feeling about my transformation. If I was having any strange symptoms. If having the desire to hold her could be said. I would. Instead, I told her I was enjoying my ability to eat.

"Oh. Are you still leaving?"

"I may stick around... for a moment. Just to get my bearings."

Her eyes drifted away to watch my brother. She understood what I meant. I was surprised when she grabbed my hand and squeezed it. I didn't flinch this time.

"He'll be ok."

"He won't be and I've accepted it."

"You're not what I expected."

"I'd ask but I know the answer. If it makes you feel better. Neither are you."

Before she could respond a wheezing cough abounded and my heart thumped. The eyes of my brother connected and I was near him in a second. His entire weight fell into me. Despite how heavy he was I couldn't complain. He was trying to speak through his vomit of blood. I worked tirelessly trying to relieve him of more by rubbing and patting his back.

"Thank the lord, you're alright?!"

"You're welcome."

I was upset by the mocking tone of the man which must be related to my intended. I didn't say anything, but as he limped up and around. He suddenly called out and fell to his knees. It startled everyone but Alec. He was resting his head against me. Shallow breaths exited as he mustered the ability to finally speak.

"You do right by her, you hear?"

"Of course."

"I mean it! Try to...live for once."

His eyes closed. I lightly shook him and he woke. I couldn't hear anything as he said something... the lights went out. I could see my breath. My senses were overwhelmed. I felt him squeeze me.

"Mother has woken."

The words were barely audible and then he... I shook him again. He didn't wake. Why won't he wake? Oh. My brother. No... I held him as he once held me and sang. He always did this when I was afraid. He was always there. But now. He's right. I must live for myself now. I kissed him goodbye and carefully burned the evidence of his passing. My tears fell as I carefully stood and tried not to fall to pieces. I must be as strong as an ox, taller than a tree, and wiser than the owl. Our house crest is a majestic owl. It's all I could think about as I processed the last words my brother said. I wandered off to find if it was true. That it was. I stared down at the spirit of my mother.She looked just as fierce as I remembered. She foretold of the day I'd have to slay her. That I'd have to choose my life over hers and I always said. I'd save you, mummy, that's how much I love you. She'd smile and give me a kiss on my forehead and then sternly say. You mustn't. You're meant to be a queen. Of course at that age, I'd say like in your stories. She'd say yes, I hate those stories. I hate what must be done. Just as my mother raised her hands high and the dead began to rise and climb up the tower to reach my princess. Why you ask? She's destined to kill them. I tossed caution to the wind and sent flames straight to her. Off in the distance, a flash of light so bright snagged my attention but what sent me was the reaction from Alexandra. Up until a second ago. She was helping me defend. But now she's crying out in pain. Crumbled on the floor at my feet. The sound mixed with the cries of the other two. They were held under her agony as she was nearly ripped in half and consumed by the same light that was beaming up toward the sky outside. It was spilling out of her in rays as if she were the sun herself. I had no time to react. No time to respond. As she consumed us all with a blast. Then things went black.