Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight.
AN: Chapter 53 is here. This was fun to write. ~ Hannah
Review for Chapter Fifty-Two:
Moonlight Starlove - Thanks! I always felt like Charlie remained underdeveloped and came across as not having the intelligence to deal with the supernatural. He definitely doesn't get enough credit in the books for all the bullshit Bella puts him through. I like him, I wanted to make his character bigger. I'm glad I helped with your writers block somehow. Isn't writers block the worst? I myself hate it and do the same as you to try and unblock it.
Chapter Fifty-Three – A Message
"Ella, Ella, Ella!"
"What Alice?"
"Some of the Volturi Guard are coming. They'll arrive in the next couple of days. They've heard of the whispers of unrest in the fey world and have come to speak to the source."
"Why are you telling me?"
"I don't want to keep it a secret. I don't ever want to keep things from you again and this will affect you. They'll want to talk to you."
"Oh. Well, in that case, thanks for telling me Alice. You're a great sister."
Never thought Alice's smile could get any bigger – I was wrong.
I felt a strange sense of being blessed. A warm sensation spread from my head to my toes at the revelation that Alice cared enough about our friendship to not keep such big things from me. I suppose it was just another nod to everyone growing and changing. My kidnapping had been a catalyst for everyone and a chance to take a step back and re-evaluate one's life. Alice must have assumed that others would want to hide what was coming from me. I had never met the Volturi before but had heard stories about them from Carlisle. I understood that they were feared within the Vampire world but I found myself oddly pleased they existed. Every culture needed an authority figure, without it there would be chaos all around. The Volturi might have a reputation of being bloodthirsty and violent but their rules and their punishments were to keep the Vampire world safe from discovery, I couldn't fault them there.
Though I felt a little nervous at meeting them, I was safe in the knowledge that I had done nothing wrong. If anything, the involvement of the Volturi could only be a good thing if they were willing to work with Adrian and his family to rid the supernatural world of this threat. At the same time, I understood that I was an anomaly that they would sure to want to interrogate. Having been directly involved with Marco and his plot, they were sure to assume that I had vital information for them. I didn't know what I could tell them and hoped they'd at least allow Jasper to speak with me. He alone, knew as much, if not more of what had happened between Marco and me.
I was, however, getting ahead of myself here. The Volturi hadn't arrived yet and Alice was uncertain as to just who was arriving. There was no need to get into a panic now.
The news that Alice had told me was quite clearly important and called for a full family meeting. 'Family' meaning, the Cullen's Adrian & Tyler, Angela & her Mother, Dad, Bella and I. Of course, we had to meet at the Cullen's as it was the only place big enough to hold all of us. The only people not present were Ben and his parents, who slipped into the Fey world each weekend to assist Adrian's parent's in their quest to find the route of the problem.
"This could present a problem," said Carlisle.
"What problem?" I asked.
"The Volturi only get involved for two reasons. To eradicate or to steal."
"Explain what you mean by that please," said Dad.
"Either they kill everyone involved or they steal those who they think will make good editions to their guard."
"That's a very closeminded way of looking at things Carlisle," I replied.
"I'm just telling you how they operate."
"They'll want to talk to Ella, I've seen it," said Alice.
"Which, should of course be avoided at all costs," said Carlisle.
"Why?"
"Ella, you have to understand, the Volturi don't work in normal ways. They will force it out of you if they thought it would work. You're clearly suffering from PTSD and shouldn't put yourself in harm's way."
"Carlisle, I have deep respect for you but if you continue to dictate my daughter and her opinions, you and I are going to be having some serious words."
"It's alright Dad, Carlisle is just not accepting when it comes to cultural differences. Having spent 20 years with the Volturi back in 1700. In his mind their opinions and practices have not changed. He sees them as the punishers to the Vampire world and sees them as having no compassion or remorse. We cannot fault him in that. He is entitled to his own opinions just as we are. We can take the high road while he takes the low road."
I wasn't sure just where this confident no nonsense attitude had come from but I liked it. I had always been confident – when not near Renee – but it was like experiencing a new part of me. In the aftermath of the kidnapping, I had taken charge and now had no time for people's attitudes when they refused to be open to all possibilities. Was I saddened that I'd had to take this approach with Carlisle? Yes. Was I going to take back what had been said? No.
"I get that everyone is on edge about their impending arrival and are using several topics to hide their own fear and worry. You are correct Carlisle, in saying that I have PTSD, everyone in this room knows that. However, I am the only one in this room that knows the restrictions of what my PTSD allows and doesn't allow. I am fully able to meet with whatever representatives the Volturi sends, I am not afraid and I am not worries about anything that could happen or could be said within that time."
"I fully support Ella's decision on knowing what she is and isn't able to handle. I would add that anything they wish to know about the Fey world will be open to them. I do not want you, Ella, thinking that you should hide aspects of what happened because you are afraid of breaching some supernatural species restrictions," said Adrian.
"Thank you, for I had worried about that and it does ease my mind to know your view on it. My only request for meeting the Volturi representatives would be to have Jasper by my side. Before you all start complaining, this is not a slight against any one of you. I hold all of you in equal regard, it is just that Jasper has been helping me the most with my journey to recovery. He has been helping me through my locked memories and therefore has insight into what happened. I do not want to be held accountable for not remembering everything that has happened, Jasper can help with that."
"I think we can live with that decision Ella," said Dad.
"Great, is that this meeting adjourned then? I mean, there is only so much seriousness one person can take."
Personally, I didn't care if the meeting was over or not, I'd had enough and intended to leave. I didn't get far, just to the driveway of the Cullen's house. I was sure that the rest of my family would have much left to discuss. Just because we were breaking down barriers and learning to respect and trust each other again didn't mean they were going to stop discussing things without me. I understood better now and was not so angry at their actions. I knew that while people would try and force their opinions through conversation, no one in that room would be stupid enough to force me with actions once again.
"You really went for Carlisle in there."
"Can you blame me Edward?"
"No…but it doesn't make it easier to watch. Especially when I can hear him."
"Yeah, and what do his thoughts say?"
"He won't change his opinion on the Volturi for anyone. I hate to say this but he's a little stuck in his ways."
"Sounds like another Vampire I know."
"Alright, I walked into that. Ella, I am trying, you must know that but it's going to take time. I'm essentially re-wiring myself."
"I know Edward, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be so snide."
"Alice reckons the guard will arrive Friday morning, your Dad has agreed to have you and Bella out of school to greet them with the rest of us."
"That seems sensible."
"How can you be so calm about all this?"
"I've been kidnapped Edward and I've had my mind turned against me. Next to that a little interrogation is nothing."
"Promise me you're ok?"
"Pinkie promise."
I held my little finger out, surprised and amused when Edward entwined his with mine.
[x]
"Ella, Ella, Ella!"
"What Alice?"
It was Thursday evening and everyone except Dad and Christine (Angela's Mum) were camping out at the Cullen's. My Dad and Christine would be joining us tomorrow morning. The only person I'd had to keep out of the loop was Lauren, I felt bad about it because I knew she knew that something was up. I couldn't involve her, she had a chance at a normal life.
"I know whose coming."
"Who?"
"Demetri, Felix, Alec and Jane."
"Alec and Jane, they're the twins, right? The ones with the wickedly deadly powers?"
"Those are the ones."
"Hmmm."
"What?"
"Nothing, just had an idea, that's all."
Alice narrowed her eyes when I refused to share with her what I was thinking about. I was surprised she hadn't seen it in a vision but wasn't about to confirm my decision and give it away.
While I could hear, the others burst of outrages at knowing who was coming as the Volturi guard, I wasn't bothered by it.
Of all the night companions, I was surprised it was Bella who shared the bed with me. I would have assumed she'd be with Adrian but as we lay facing each other, I was glad it was her. She'd wrapped her hands in hers and was staring at me intently.
"You would tell me if you weren't alright with this, wouldn't you?"
"Of course, Bella but I'm fine really. At worse, I must answer uncomfortable questions, and at best, I come away from the experience with a new understanding about the Volturi and maybe some new friends."
"I'll keep you safe from the monsters Ella."
"As will I, Bella."
That had been our goodnight to one another for years and would never stop giving us comfort.
The dawn of a new day, bought with it levels of excitement I was sure I was the only one to feel. It didn't matter, whatever happened today would be something different. Something I was looking forward to. Don't ask me to explain it, I might be mad, I might be completely off my rocker but this morning I woke without a care in the world, ready to face what was coming my way.
We couldn't apparently, just wait in the Cullen's house for the Volturi Guard to arrive. To me, that seemed the sensible option but having already lost one battle against me, I didn't want Carlisle humiliated to the point that he didn't help me. Thus, we were currently standing in a cleared part of the forest near the Cullen home, waiting for the Guard to arrive. I suppose we create an imposing gathering. I'm not sure what the Volturi Guard were expecting but I doubt it would be what they found. Vampires, Fey, Witches and Humans all stood together, united under one front. As far as I was aware from talks with my family, it was unusual for supernatural species to group together as such, especially when Vampires were notorious for not getting on well with others.
Though people kept sneaking glances at me to make sure I was alright, I wasn't as the expected, nervous or afraid. Rather, I was bored and hungry. I'd had breakfast but I guess it wasn't enough, I needed something to nibble on, maybe a donut. It was only when the Cullen's switched their attention to the right corner of the clearing that I realised it was game time. I couldn't yet see what they could but I turned my head accordingly. The last thing I needed was to appear stupid or confused.
They came as silent as the air than hung around us, appearing as if from nowhere, they glided onto the clearing as if swept there by magical wings. There were four of them. Alec and Jane, I had no trouble identifying. They were equally beautiful and terrifying to look at. I didn't have to have any special ability to know that they were dangerous but I could see a vulnerability there also. I was probably the only one to notice it. I guess it was a twin thing. Though they weren't touching, I could tell that each were devoted to the other. There was an underlying fear of rejection and a worry of being separated. I felt the same way about Bella sometimes. Though I knew they were some of the most powerful and feared within the Guard, I couldn't help but want to know them. I liked making friend's.
The other two with them were male. One, impossibly tall and muscled, scanned the area with his eyes, his posture never relaxed until he was certain there was no danger. The other male, made me shiver in a way I knew hadn't gone unnoticed by anyone around me. I couldn't help it. I didn't know who he was or what special power, if any, he had. He reminded me of Marco. I was unprepared for that.
"You have quite a gathering here Carlisle. Almost as if you expected trouble," said the tall male.
"Of course, not Demetri, we simply wanted to greet you as was proper."
"I told Aro you would be involved in this matter but he did not believe me," said Jane.
Her voice was clear, musical, I wonder if she sang?
"I'm afraid their involvement is my fault," said Adrian.
"And you are?"
"Adrian Crowthorne—"
"Crowned Prince of the Fey world," finished Jane.
Adrian inclined his head.
"Well met Volturi, I apologise it isn't in better circumstances."
"No matter. In this case, we believe the threat isn't just to us but all supernaturals, is this correct?" asked Alec.
"I'm afraid so. What started as a coup of Dark Fey trying to overthrow my Kingdom has turned into a mysterious mastermind named the 'Master'. Whoever they are, they want control over all species. If this were to happen I believe it would mean chaos and destruction to all. I worry that this 'Master' will seek out the Volturi as his first point of call. You are very powerful and known throughout the realms. Anything I can do to help you protect your race, I will gladly do. We must work together on this."
"We understand. It is indeed a troubling occurrence. We, as the Volturi, simply cannot sit back and not take action. We have been asked to stay a while and monitor the situation. I understand that this could cause problems for you. We will of course hunt elsewhere."
Before Carlisle had a chance to jump down their throats and head off their extended visit, Adrian thankfully took control of the situation.
"Of course, you are welcome to stay. I understand the need for you to gather as much information as possible to give to your own Masters upon your return. As you can see we are a collection of different races with cultural differences. All I ask is that you respect that during your stay with us. If you need accommodation, any one of us can provide you with that."
"Of course, we will comply with your wishes," said Demetri.
"We heard rumours that there was a kidnapping…can you confirm this?"
Silence spread across the clearing and though I was aware that several members gathered would prefer me not to say a thing, the encouraging nods from Jazz and Bella were just the confidence I needed.
"You were right," I said as I purposefully moved forward, away from Carlisle but nearer to the Guard. I knew Jazz, Bella and Rose would have flanked me. I didn't even have to turn around to know that.
"It, was you?" asked Jane.
"Yeah. Unfortunately, it wasn't a pleasant experience. In fact, my entire summer has been tainted by the ordeal but I'm happy to answer any questions you might have, so long as foods available, I'm really hungry."
The best way to describe Jane's expression would have been confusion. I thought I saw a smile on her face but honestly couldn't tell whether it was that or a sneer.
"Jasper's been helping with my recovery, so he has to be included in any interrogations you would like to hold with me. This is my twin Bella, where I go, she goes. I know you understand that."
"You are twins?" asked Alec.
"Yep. Bella keeps me protected and I keep her sane."
"Why does she need to protect you?" asked Jane.
"Our Mother does not treat Ella with the kindness and love she deserves," said Bella and I knew it was hard for her to say that out loud. I leaned towards her to hold her hand. I squeezed it softly but didn't let go, it was comforting to hold onto Bella.
"You look after each-other, too don't you?"
Both Jane and Alec nodded.
"Look Demetri, two sets of twins, the fun we could have."
"Felix…" warned Jane.
"I don't like you."
"Brave words for a human."
"Not really. I meant it when I said my summer was less than pleasant. Nothing in this world surprises me anymore and I've learn that there are worse ways to go than what you could do to me. I'm guessing you're hear as the muscle, your arrogant attitude probably means you have no special ability and are bitter about it. You use your charm to get what you want but frankly you just come off as slimy. You remind me of my kidnapper and before you smirk at that, NO, that does not mean you have anything over me. It just means I hold you in a lower regard than a cockroach I crush underneath my boot. Stay away from me."
"Or what?"
"Never underestimate the power a 'human' has."
"I have NEVER seen anyone put Felix down like that! Impressive. You said you were hungry? Maybe we should get you some food," said Jane.
She sprang forward to link arms with me.
"If it wouldn't be too much trouble, could we possibly take up residence in your home for our stay?" asked Alec.
"Of course, Son but one wrong move against my girls and you're out."
I hadn't heard my Dad walk up to us and jumped a little at the sound of his voice.
"This is my Dad, Charlie Swan. He's Chief of Police here. He might not be able to kill a Vampire but he has some wicked good threats."
[x]
"I sense the others were reluctant to have you talk with us."
"Ella has PTSD and there are those who believe that means she shouldn't have a say in her own life. Since we managed to rescue Ella, it has been a learning curve for all of us, with each of us making mistakes and learning from them. Some are more stubborn than others."
"Carlisle and Edward?" asked Alec.
"You're very perceptive," said Bella.
"A talent you pick up when you've been around as long as we have."
"Carlisle refuses to change his beliefs about the Volturi from the time he spent with them at the beginning of the 1700s. His medical profession leads him to believe that he knows what's best for Ella without even consulting her. Edward has been conditioned to think that his thoughts and opinions of the world from which he grew up in as a human need not be changed or adapted to the evolving times. He was, I believe, thoroughly shot down by Ella and is now re-evaluating his outlook."
"He is your mate?"
"Yes."
"It must be hard for you Ella."
"Life is hard, regardless of species. Life never hands you more than you can handle but it will always try to push your boundaries."
"I like you," said Jane, "which is rare. I hardly like anyone, and have never sat friendly with a human as a Vampire or from when I was human."
"I like you too Jane and you Alec."
"You realise you're stuck with her now? Ella collects friends like moths to a flame. People like her but her friendship group is small."
"That's because I only trust a small group of people."
"You trust us?" asked Jane in disbelief.
"Why wouldn't I? You have done nothing to convince me otherwise and besides, twins have to stick together."
"You are a unique human aren't you," said Jane.
"I suppose you could call me that."
"We do have to ask you some questions though. I am sorry but it has to be done, you'll be alright, won't you?" asked Alec.
I nodded.
"Perhaps, instead of many questions, you could just ask precise ones," said Jasper.
"That could work."
"Alright Ella, in your own words, can you tell us what happened to you this summer?"
Deep breaths, deep breaths. I was safe here, with Jazz and Bella. The twins weren't going to hurt me, they just needed information. Nothing bad was going to happen. I needed to get used to telling the story, it would only help me move on with my life a little quicker.
"I met Marco at summer camp and believed him to be a normal young man, he used my initial thoughts and exploited them. He used his charm and his persona to push his manipulations onto me without my knowledge. Beneath the 'nice boy' persona was a vicious and twisted fey. Working on orders from the 'Master', Marco's instructions were to hand me over. He didn't. Instead, he grew infatuated with me. His mind games started with underlining thoughts and feelings that pushed onto me but became more warped and intense as time moved on. I didn't know what was happening at first. I mean I knew something was wrong but I couldn't pinpoint it. It was when I started to have moments where I couldn't remember what had happened that I began getting scared. The personalities of people around me at camp started to change, they became almost bipolar."
My hands were shaking but I would not stop telling the story.
"Bella will attest to me arriving and seeking help that Angela provided but I cannot tell you how I came to be there. I had broken my foot, I was unable to drive and still made it from camp to seek help. My mind was so scrambled and it was tearing me apart. All the manipulations that Marco had put into my mind were at war with what my memories told him. I think it was my determination and my belief in Edward that stopped Marco from winning. He was determined that I was to be his but I was determined that Edward was the one for me. The war in my mind kept me sane in a weird way. By the time, we had worked out Marco's capabilities it was too late for me. We had thought we had the upper hand but we were wrong. Marco always seemed to be one step ahead."
The story was almost over, I could do this. I could finish this.
"In some ways, this would have been easier if Marco was around still to offer the thoughts and motives of his brain. When he kidnapped me, he was as far away from the person I first met as possible. It was like there was a poison in his brain that was slowly causing his insanity to spread throughout his body. It was like his mind was split into two halves. The half that needed me to complete his mission and the half that wanted me for himself. I don't understand the workings of the in-between, I just know I was there for a lot longer than it seemed. He was, scary, violent in nature and hungry for something I couldn't provide. I felt the control I had slipping. I'd almost given myself over when help arrived. I don't know how much more I could have taken on my own. I did not have what it takes to fight his control forever."
"Yet, you are still fighting now. That speaks of what a strong person you are. It has nothing to do with you being human. Others have faced easy and harder trials than you and not come out to the sun shining. You are not letting what has happened to you get in the way of living your life and that is commendable," said Alec.
"The Volturi have a certain reputation to uphold but that does not mean we are without feeling. Alec and I came from a time where differences were frowned upon and could see you burnt at the stake. We were unusual even as humans and were not well tolerated by anyone in our village. We became Vampires with hate in our hearts and a bitterness against humans that grew and grew. For a long time, we could not see that there were anomalies to the rules we'd set for ourselves. Not every human is the scum of the earth but also, not every human is going to be open to accepting myths. It took us a long time of hiding in the shadows and using our gifts to keep people away to let go of the wrong doings that had happened to us in the past. Alec is right, what you're doing is commendable, you're more adaptable than we were and have the courage to work through your problems before they fester."
"I was worried about allowing the two of you to interview Ella because I've heard about your powers and the fear you instil in others but I feel like I have made a mistake for all the wrong reasons."
"What do you mean Bella?"
"I should not have been worried about the two of them interviewing you but of how quickly you would bond with them. The three of you are going to cause so much mischief, I can already see it."