A/N: I bet when I'd said I'd post soon, you didn't think it'd be today, did you? *waggles eyebrows* I have to say such a big thank you to all my reviewers/alerters/readers for being so patient and supportive through this journey of Atmosphere. I'm constantly floored each chapter by your kind words and enthusiasm! I'm also reminded, every chapter, how fabulously fantastic Fran is -this story [and my others] certainly wouldn't be the same without her. Alright, I'm going to let you read, but two things:

1. The map for Atmosphere can be found on Fran's Pay It Forward page on FB or on my Christie Hart FB profile
2. Even though I forget it while I'm writing, I don't actually own these characters ...so... yah

Enjoy!


PART III: SWAN

Chapter 30

~ Two months later ~

"Are you watching?"

Bella rolls her eyes as she pushes back several wayward tendrils of hair from her view. She had been less than thrilled to be interrupted from her inspection rotations by a rambunctious Peter and Charlotte, but she had reminded herself that the last two months had deprived her of free time. Between fine-tuning the attack strategy and getting acquainted with her role as Queen, it's a wonder that Bella has seen any of those close to her. She tries not to feel disheartened, as she knows that her full attention is critical at this time, but it doesn't mean that she misses her friends and family any less. This being said, trekking through the forest to a clearing is not what she had in mind when she'd thought she'd wanted to spend more time with them.

"Bella," Charlotte whines.

"I'm watching," Bella waves for her to continue.

Sporting a smug smile, Charlotte gets into position with her bow and arrow. Her form is exquisite, steadied and measured as she focuses on her target. Once again, Bella is awed by her ability to master an action only after a few tries. In this case, Charlotte has had two months to perfect her archery skills, which is why Bella is surprised that she misses the target pinned about forty feet away.

"It's okay, Charlie, the wind is strong, and even some of the most skilled archers have difficulty contending with the elements," Bella begins to comfort her.

"Bella?" Charlotte interrupts, pointing past the tree, "I hit my target."

Bella moves so that she is standing next to Charlotte and looking from her viewpoint. The yellow tail of the arrow is almost indistinguishable in the foliage, but surely enough, she sees it. To her astonishment, the weapon is lodged in the center of a target located over a hundred yards away.

"Did you just …" Bella's mouth pops open in disbelief.

"That's not even her farthest!" Peter brags.

"See? I can hold my own," Charlotte boasts, "Are you sure you want to keep me away from the battlefield?"

Not this again.

"We are not returning to this conversation," Bella groans as she begins to stalk away from the two teens.

Ever since the final plans were set and everyone was assigned their duties, Charlotte and Peter have been upset. They are refusing to stay on the sidelines chaperoning the orphanage while the battle takes place, and insist that they should be part of the engaging force. Alice, Jasper, Edward, and Bella had all laughed the moment the couple had sat them down and asked to be included in army training. It was the one thing Alice and Bella had agreed on in what seemed like forever; Peter and Charlotte were not to be anywhere near the battle, not if it could be helped.

Despite the definitive rejection, Charlotte and Peter have stayed persistent in their attempts to sway their guardian figures. For the duration of the walk back to the main city, they relentlessly provide Bella with reasons as to why they should be allowed to fight.

"There are others our age who are fighting," Peter argues for the fifth time.

"We are autonomous adults and demand to be treated as such," Charlotte supports him.

"Peter, you are newly sixteen, and Charlotte, you are fifteen," Bella spins around to face them, "Your guardians didn't even want to let you court, let alone join an army."

"But they now see that our courtship has been harmless;" Peter insists, and emphasizes his statement by picking up Charlotte's hand, "See? She hasn't killed me."

"Yet," Charlotte grumbles, as she takes back her hand, "Just because he is an immature colt, doesn't mean I must be punished."

"You are not being punished, you're being protected," Bella states, "And those who are responsible for your well-being have already spoken on the matter. Their word is final."

"Fine, I'll ask Alec when he gets here," Charlotte pouts petulantly, "He's arriving today isn't he?"

"Yes," Bella affirms happily, "Not that it matters where this decision is concerned. Edward, being the eldest and King, is your legal guardian. He has already said no-,"

Bella is stopped short when she sees the face of someone unexpected. Happiness and nostalgia swarm her as she takes in their familiar features. Though they had never been particularly close, she can't help but feel thrilled at the reunion. She thought they'd never arrive.

"Lucy!" she yells as she jogs over to where her purple-skinned friend stands. Lucy is clearly shocked when Bella envelops her in a hug, but timidly returns the action with a few awkwardly placed pats to Bella's wings. "I didn't know when to expect you."

Lucy pulls away and bows her head respectfully; "I, along with the remaining lunellas, came to aid you in battle, Lunaronna."

"Don't act shy with me now," Bella slaps her arm playfully, "You're one of the few people I can count on to be informal with me."

"If you insist, Lunaronna," Lucy nods, before quirking a brow, "Although you haven't had your coronation, so perhaps I should refer to you as Essa?"

"Ah, there is the boldness I know and love," Bella chuckles, "Don't let my people hear you, I don't think they've caught on as yet."

"We've been telling her to do it for the past two months, and yet she procrastinates," Charlotte chimes in.

Lucy bows her head once more, "Essa Charlotte, it is wonderful to see you in good health. My deepest condolences for the loss of your parents; they were kind and just rulers."

"Thank you," Charlotte accepts.

"I would like to catch up with you, but for now, I must complete my inspections," Bella tells Lucy, "Will you join me?"

"I will go settle in with the other lunellas for now," Lucy replies, "We can speak later."

"It is a joy to have you near again," Bella bids farewell.

The next several hours are spent checking each unit. There are those who are younger and new to combat who receive adjusted training, and those who are more experienced who are given a more vigorous regimen. A few units of Edward's soldiers had arrived about a month ago from their campaign in Cullenia, having successfully neutralized the Iris threat. The day the news that Cullenia had been fully reclaimed reached Forxx, extensive celebrations arose. The streets had been filled with dancing and music, which started early in the morning and continued well into the night. Edward had been in a daze of elation most of the time, and Bella had shed tears of joy. Vanquishing the Iris was the second major feat of their fighting back against Aro, and it was needed encouragement for the days ahead. However, the fact that Aro had not made one attempt to retaliate had planted a seed of worry in Bella's mind.

As they enter their final month of preparation, Bella has increased her inspections. She wants to make sure that her people are training intensely, but are also being treated well. Despite the few that had fallen ill or simply didn't have the heart for combat, their numbers had increased. In the last two months, another eight hundred civilians enlisted, shocking all the members of the council. This, along with the five hundred that Alec intends to bring, adds another thousand personnel to their force. Bella can only hope that the numbers are enough to overwhelm Aro's army.

She reaches her last stop of her assessment and knocks on the small, shanty door. It always saddens her to witness the state of the Acu'lita home. It's not quite dilapidated, but the conditions certainly aren't suitable for the amount of persons living under the aged roof. Seeing their meager means of living had inspired Bella to think of initiatives to target the poverty level in Forxx, but she knows she can't make any radical changes until after the war.

"Cora," Harold greets warmly, as he leads her inside, "You did not bring your feathered friend along this visit?"

"Lua is fulfilling her own special mission for me," Bella smiles, "How are our trainees?"

"Seth is whipping them into shape," he chuckles, just as they exit the narrow hall into the living room.

Huddled around a deck of playing cards are Seth, Jessica, Rachel, and a couple citizens that Bella has come to know over the past months. She watches as Seth lifts a card and glances at its surface, then another member of the circle calls out what is scrawled on the slip of decorated paper. It's an exercise in practicing transmitting information, which is the ability the trainees have in common. All they needed was the name of one of the other Transmitters, and they could mentally relay visual or auditory information. This ability is critical to their war strategy, as it is a way that the different units can stay in contact. There are twenty Transmitters in the community, and they'd each been assigned to their own unit. The five seated in the room are the youngest, and therefore will stay removed from combat.

"Bella," Seth leaps from his spot and tackles her with an embrace. She staggers back a few steps but manages to catch him. "Jacob says I've done so well with training that I'm an honorary knight!"

The soft spot that man has for Seth is incredible, Bella thinks.

"Is that so?" she appraises, "Perhaps I'll have to make it an official decree."

Seth's eyes widen in awe, "You can do that?"

"The perks of having the Cora as your best friend," Rachel huffs, "Don't encourage my brother, Your Highness, we already had to pry him out of father's old armor."

"Don't be a ver'mia, Rachel, I wasn't stuck," Seth retorts before sticking out his tongue.

Though it is probably the proper action to reprimand Seth for calling his sister a 'worm eater,' Bella can't help but laugh behind her hand. Seeing that the sun is going down, and the Transmitters have their training under control, she decides it's time to retire to her cabin. She'll be permanently relocating to Edward's lodgings and give hers to Alec upon his return. In the grander scheme of things, her sleeping alongside Edward each night is rather improper, but the order of customs has been broken during these critical times. It's just as well –she'd always seen them as archaic.

Or perhaps she's rationalizing so she doesn't have to forfeit Edward's touch?

A blush warming her face, Bella exits the Acu'lita house and enters the cool evening breeze. She only manages to take one step before a shock of panic surges through her. Momentarily, she associates the sudden feeling with Alec, thinking that he is sending a signal of distress. However, once Lua flies into view, she knows the source of the warning and it doesn't bode well. Her bird lands on her outstretched forearm and relinquishes a stream of images that leave Bella shaking:

Soldiers marching across the Pylae

Armor marked with the Volturi crest …

By the time Lua concludes her message, Rachel is already calling out to her. Bella races back into the house, her limbs propelling her before her mind gives the command.

"What's the report?" Bella asks upon entering.

"Our troops are dispersed: 1,000 at the West Gate," Jessica answers.

"1,746 at the Center Gate," Rachel says.

"2,492 at the East Gate," Seth informs.

"And the opposition?" Harold presses.

"None at the West."

"Estimating 500 at the Center."

"E-estimating 6,000 in the East," Seth stutters in fear.

Harold and Bella share a weighted glance. Her throat runs dry, the moisture of her mouth seeming to relocate in the form of sweat on her palms. She knows she needs to spring into action, but she allows herself this one second, this one second to let fear settle in because every second going forward will have to be one of levelheadedness, tact, and regality.

"Your Highness, shall I commence the retreat from the East Gate and withdraw one thousand from the Center?" Harold requests.

"V'a per'so," Bella permits, and then turns to the Transmitters in front of her. She calms her voice so that she can relieve some of the distress from their faces, "We have prepared for this; therefore, do not panic. Report to your unit headquarters and remain there until further notice. No matter the outcome of this day, I, Cora Swann'eya, am very proud of you. Thank you for your service."

All pretenses of propriety are dropped once Seth barrels into her arms. She returns his embrace with equal fervor and whispers assurances into his ear. He has seen more violence and injustice in his young life than one should ever experience, and as she presses a final kiss to the top of his head, she promises that she will fight to make this land peaceful for him once more. Knowing that she can't delay any further, she releases him and then heads to Town Hall.

Flying above The Capital, Bella can see that the message has already spread throughout the community. Townsfolk hurry to follow emergency protocol and head to the designated places of gathering. The council had worked to provide key locations in the largest abodes and buildings where those who are unable to fight will be protected by those who can. Three thousand soldiers had been assigned to remain in the city at all times in the event of such an attack.

However, the number of troops Aro had deployed to one gate had surprised them. Whereas the council had anticipated that Aro would attempt a complete siege of L'Apush and The Capital (much like his complete overtaking of Cullenia through the Iris), it is clear that Aro is solely focused on the epicenter of Forxx. The issue now is not whether there are enough soldiers to match Aro's forces, but to ensure that they can all unite near the city's limits in enough time. For this reason, Harold had requested to withdraw the forces from the border, so that they can return to the 3,000 employed in the city.

The council members, along with Lucy, Jacob, and Edward, are barking orders by the time Bella arrives. Their expressions are severe, yet controlled, and she hopes that her own countenance holds the same composure.

"Status report," Bella demands of Athenadora, the Transmitter of the council.

"Our troops have begun their withdrawal, and the last unit is expected to reach the battle point in just over three hours and their current pace," she shares.

"How far behind is the Volturi?" Carlisle asks.

Athenadora shakes her head, "We have estimates that they're lagging by twenty minutes. We can't be sure."

"No one got close enough to count their pace?" Caius questions.

"We didn't want to take the risk," Jacob defends, "It is of no matter. Five minutes or twenty, we will be ready and waiting."

"Any word from my brother?" Edward inquires.

Alec? Bella tries.

We're close.

I can tell you're still on the ship, how are you close? Bella refrains from internally shrieking her response.

We're improvising. I'll be there as soon as I can, but until then I can't lose consciousness. Stay strong, Bella.

"He says they're close, but I don't know how close that is," Bella grits, "If our troops from the East Gate return and those who can fly from the Center Gate join us, then we canexceed their six thousand. We'll need to remain stable until Alec comes with reinforcements."

"For now, all we can do is our best to ensure the civilians are prepared, and then head for the battle point," Billy speaks, "Are we permitted to proceed, Cora Swann'eya?"

"V'a per'so," Bella grants, prompting the members to disperse. Edward lingers, much to Bella's relief. She asks the question that had been sitting on her mind, "Where are Peter and Charlotte?"

"With your mother at the orphanage," he sighs, as he draws her into a hug, "I wish they would stay at one of the lunella hatches."

"They want to help, and that's one of the ways we were able to get them to stay away from the battlefield," Bella reminds them, "They can hold their own."

"Charlie has never had to fight," Edward continues to worry, "What if-,"

Bella places a slender finger against his lips to halt him, "Peter won't let anyone near her. Besides, did you know your sister can hit a target over one hundred yards away?"

Edward puckers his lips beneath her finger; "She'll be our sister soon."

"I already have a coronation to worry about planning, you will not stress me with our wedding," Bella admonishes.

"In actuality, it's the imminent war that warrants your stress," Edward retorts, but the daunting message underlying his quip is received. They're out of time.

Bella rises on her tiptoes to press a kiss to his chin, "Go to your leaving unit, I'll be fine commanding the forces here."

Before she can pull back, he gently winds his hand in the hairs at the base of her skull and tilts her head back. He then presses a firm kiss to her lips that draws tears to her eyes. It's a kiss that conveys the words they can't say:

Goodbye.

I love you.

Please, come back to me.

"I'm going to marry you when this is over," Edward promises.

"You'll face the stocks if you don't," Bella threatens.

Those are the last words they share before they part ways. Using the back of her hands, Bella hastily scrubs away her trailing tears. She can't let her subjects see her so emotional in this perilous time; she needs to be their pillar of strength, no matter her separation from Edward.

They both have their respective delegations during the emergency response. Three miles outside the city's limits is the planned battlefield. It had been chosen for the low population of trees and a reasonable distance from The Capital to allow for reinforcement if needed. Edward would head the battlefield forces along with Harold, Jacob, Carlisle, and Emmett, while Bella would remain in the city to coordinate alongside the other council members. Esme, Peter, and Charlotte had been stationed with the homeless and orphans, while Quil, James, and Rosalie are tasked with manning the infirmary. Lastly, Alice would be chaperoning one of the general shelters, while also keeping watch over Emmett and Rosalie's newborn girl, Stephanie. Whether it is through fighting or caring for others, all the citizens of Forxx have united to protect the nation.

An hour passes, and the streets gradually dwindle in population. Bella makes her rounds at the decided checkpoints, ensuring that the soldiers have what they need and that they know how grateful she is for their service. The unexpected attack means that they are short on armor for all present. Therefore, it was distributed based on experience; those who have little to no exposure to combat are maximally shielded. Bella is busy straightening the helmet of a younger soldier when a Transmitter, designated by the red streak across his nose, jogs over to her.

"Cora Swann'eya," He drops to one knee in a sign of respect, much like the other soldiers had done when she passed.

"Rise and speak, soldier," she prompts.

"Captain Pe'ason speaking," the soldier transmits, his eyes glazed over as he delivers the message directly, "We have our first wounded heading to base."

"How is that possible? No one was meant to engage before reaching the battlefield, and the Volturi are out of range," Bella demands to know.

"Against orders, a soldier attempted to get close to determine how far out King Aro's force was. He was harmed in the attempt," Captain Pe'ason informs.

"Is he being assisted back to the base?" she questions.

"He is running back," Captain Pe'ason corrects, "He insisted he could reach there faster."

If he is harmed, how is he running back? …

"Was he successful in his mission?" Bella asks.

"As a matter of fact, Cora, he did us a great service. Both our forces and Aro's are an hour closer than anticipated, and our enemies are lagging thirty minutes," Captain Pe'ason reports, "King Edward and General Acu'lita have increased their pace. Combat is estimated to engage in the next hour and thirty minutes."

"Thank you for the report, Captain Pe'ason, I will be leaving now. Thank you Transmitters," she bids before taking flight.

Her mind races as she flies to the infirmary. There are a few soldiers with advanced speed as their ability, but she can think of only one with the insistence to go against her orders: Eleazar. Though she hasn't had the easiest of relationships with him, she worries about the extent of his damages. Surely he must be okay if he is able to run back?

She's barely able to nod at the soldiers guarding the infirmary door as she rushes inside. She enters the spacious room where multiple cots have been erected, and ointments and bandages line the walls. However, her focus doesn't remain on her surroundings for long. She zeroes in on Quil, James, and Rosalie, who are seated beside a bed, their heads bowed.

"Essa?" she hears the croak of Eleazar's voice.

The weak timbre of his voice has her wanting to turn around, but her feet push her forward. When she finally sees him, her shock eradicates her tears. Gone is the pale yellow hair and skin that she had associated with her lunella leader. In its place are charred tissue and bloody, peeling membrane that causes her stomach to church. He's lying on his side so that he doesn't exacerbate the burns on his back, though Bella can't imagine any position can bring him much comfort. His labored breathing tells her that he is in immeasurable pain.

"Why, Eleazar?" Bella cries as she falls to her knees at his bedside, "Why would you risk your life that way?"

"I told you, I would take care of you," he gasps, "You will save our lands."

She begins weeping before she can even attempt to hold back her emotion. Using great effort, Eleazar twitches the fingers of his left hand, one of the sole places saved from the scorching. Tenderly, Bella links her fingers with his, willing her body to stop shaking so that she doesn't disturb him.

"But I can't," Bella sobs, "I can't save you."

Confirmation from the Healers isn't needed. Their resigned postures combined with the extensive burns on Eleazar's insignia tell her that he has reached the end of his journey. Years of dedication to the Guardians and in service of the Cullens are to be concluded at this moment; a long burning flame ousted by the breath of war.

"Essa, I need you to listen to me," Eleazar implores weakly, "The day when we fought in the infirmary-,"

"None of that matters now," she hushes.

"No, it does," Eleazar insists, "You told James that I had lost faith in you."

"I-I didn't know you had heard me," Bella admits.

"I'm glad I did so that now I can correct you," he pants, taking a moment to catch his breath, "I pushed you so hard because I had such high expectations for you. However, I let it get out of control, and for that, I apologize."

"Everything is forgiven," Bella sniffles as she presses a kiss to their joined hands, "You helped me become who I am today."

"I'm honored," Eleazar rasps, "I have so much faith in you. In all of you."

Bella coughs as she tries to gulp down her sobs, but grief floods her. Her next words are broken, "Tell me what I can do. How can I make this better?"

"Let us not prolong this," Eleazar wheezes, "I am ready, Essa."

He needn't say anything else, as Bella understands what he is asking of her. The tear that streaks down her cheek matches the one that escapes the corner of his eye. She clears her throat and prepares herself.

"Luna Eleazar Denali, for your dedication and service to your nation, I thank you, and pray your soul finds rest in the galaxies," she cries, "In you, there will always be flight."

"Ett'io," he murmurs as he closes his eyes.

It's agonizing –doubtlessly the hardest thing she's ever had to do. But for all he's done for her and because she can do no more to help him, she fulfills his request. With as powerful a surge of energy as she can muster, she drains the remaining life from him. It takes no more than a second.

There will be tragedy, and lives will be lost, but order will be restored.

The world around her is muted. The scrape of her boots against the dirt, the promptings of the Healers … Bella hears none of the sounds, as she staggers over to a basin in the back of the room. Sound only returns once she's bowed over the bucket, heaving the contents of her stomach. When she finishes, she leans back on her heels and closes her eyes. She tries to hold onto one emotion, any emotion so that she can anchor herself and carry on. To her surprise, one breaks through immediately –unbridled anger. Fist wrapped in the fabric of her shirt, she uses the hem to scrub across her lips.

"Bella?" James gently lays a hand atop her shoulder.

"Where is your Transmitter?" she asks hoarsely.

As Quil waves Jessica over, Bella stands to her feet.

"Contact all of the units," Bella commands, "Tell them to take no prisoners."

Bella's eyes are as black as the surrounding night. Twenty minutes ago, she had received word that Aro's forces had arrived, and her army had begun to engage. Fifteen minutes ago, she'd streaked black paint across the bridge of her nose in remembrance of her ancestors. Ten minutes ago, she had arrived at the city limit along with her lunellas, waiting for the first sign of a Volturi.

Eleazar had died an hour ago.

The area is quiet, but she doesn't fool herself into thinking that no Volturi have made it past the first line of defense. The battle against the Iris had taught her that a few stragglers could invade and bring about damage. This is why just over a hundred soldiers stand behind her, waiting for the enemy to cross the city line.

The first sign appears a minute later. It's so nondescript that Bella almost doesn't catch it, but the red tail of the arrow overhead doesn't match the white glow of the stars. Mentally, she grasps the weapon and drags it to the ground. It lands arrowhead first at her feet.

"They're here," Bree announces.

The first wave of Volturis arrive, at least ten flying above. As the soldiers and lunellas run toward the opposing force, she telekinetically plucks the arrow from the ground and sends it soaring. She doesn't think twice as she uses it to pierce through enemy after enemy, tearing it through exposed flesh. One by one, they drop to the ground, spiraling out of the sky like meteors in a shower.

Sounds of metal and anguished cries ring as the fight swells. She sifts through the crowd ruthlessly, alternating between using her absorption and her dagger to render the opposition to their knees. She is filled with sick satisfaction at the clinking sound of Volturi armor falling onto the blood-soaked dirt and the way her orange poison infects her opponent. The insidious anger that had entered her earlier in the evening slithers out and strangles every person she faces.

Four figures illuminated by the moon fly past, catching Bella's eye. As she pries her blade from out of flesh, she tracks the Volturis' movements. They travel unhindered, as the rest of the Forxx soldier's are too occupied to engage. Abandoning her injured challenger, she propels herself upward.

Flying while attempting to telekinetically get a hold of someone proves challenging. No matter how many times she tries, they quickly evade her, either changing their height or direction. Straining her wings, she pushes herself forward until she's within reaching distance of the attacker. This time, she anticipates his drop in altitude and decides to fall with him. The effect is that she catches him, arms wrapped around his waist and his wings restricted from flapping. While she had fully intended on pressing a hand to his exposed skin and leeching his power, an intense pain causes her to freeze. The surge feels as if searing needles are being introduced to her skin. Unable to flap her wings, the two begin to plunge out of the sky.

Bella! Alec calls out to her anxiously.

Knowing that Alec can't afford to be distracted by her situation, she pushes him out of her consciousness. She doesn't know whether he's actually blocked from connecting to her, but she refrains from opening her mind on her end. Meanwhile, the ground is quickly approaching, and she has yet to regain full use of her appendages. Every time she attempts to flap, her foe stings her to the point of incapacitation. It will be only seconds before she meets the ground, so she prepares herself for what will be an agonizing impact.

Except that it doesn't come –at least, not in the way Bella was expecting. A blur of movement flashes above her before she and her enemy are snatched upward. With elation, she sees Caius holding onto her perpetrator's hand, straining to drag their joined body weight. As soon as pain flitters across her savior's face, she regains movement and is able to unwind her arms. It occurs to her that her attacker can only disable one opponent at a time, so she uses the opportunity to grab her dagger and drive it through the rivet in his armor. Upon his last breath, both she and Caius release him.

"Are you okay, Cora?" Caius asks.

"Yes, thanks to you," she assures with gratitude, "Did you see where the others went?"

"I was able to stop one before I came to your assistance," he informs her, "Let us look-,"

The search is unnecessary; in the distance a pillar of smoke rises. Horror washes over Bella as she realizes that the orphanage has been set on fire. Faster than she has ever flown before, she presses forward. Her heart beats in time with the flapping of her wings, and the cold night air whistles past her ears. The lowest level is quickly becoming an inferno, so much so that the heat is already stifling upon her arrival. In the back of the building, she can see children and soldiers filing outside, but not nearly enough considering the amount that had initially been inside.

"Where is Amber?" Bella shrieks to Caius, "We need her ice!"

"She's a few blocks away at her post," he shouts back over the roar of flames and panicked yells, "Go get her, I will assist here!"

"No, I cannot leave them," Bella shakes her head, "Peter, Charlotte … my mother, they're all in there. Go, Caius!"

Though he visibly disagrees, he follows her orders. Not wanting to waste another second, Bella takes a deep breath and flies into the burning building. Retracting her wings is her next action, as the feathers are a liability in the flames. She calls out while rushing through the upper level, coughing on the acrid smoke that invades her lungs. With the top level cleared, she moves to the third floor where few flames have reached. Thankfully, the smoke is the worst of the danger, so she's able to travel freely. She goes from door to door, calling out to see if any children are trapped inside the chambers. The fifth room she opens reveals nearly twenty children, shirts drawn over their noses as they huddle around a gaping hole in the wall to the outside. She accepts the few that run to her, trying not to focus on the way their cries stab at her heart so that she can keep focused. She pulls them along as she runs to the opening, prepared to begin flying them to the ground. It's only as she nears the makeshift portal that she realizes Peter and Charlotte are also in the room.

Despite the chaos of the moment, she can acknowledge the pride that blooms within her at their bravery. Charlotte loads Peter with two children before he leaps out of the passage, using his air capabilities to soften their descent. Gradually, the children are removed and taken to safer grounds. Following his lead, Bella tugs those surrounding her into her arms and leaps out from the building. Four trips later, the children have been fully evacuated, leaving Peter, Charlotte, and Bella inside.

"I knew you would come," Charlotte cries, as she latches onto Bella.

Bella uses their embrace to pull her out of the building, Peter following close behind. Afterward, they run to the mass of frantic people at the front, where the soldiers are counting children. Eyes scanning the crowd, she tries to locate her mother. It's to no avail. The sheer amount of people along with the lessened visibility from the smoke makes the task nearly impossible. With a parting squeeze to Charlotte's hand, she flies over to Caius and Amber. Using her gift of ice to target the flames, Amber attempts to halt the spreading fire.

"Have you seen my mother?" Bella asks, her voice rasping from the smoke inhalation.

"No, we haven't," Caius shakes his head warily; "We're also missing three children."

"Why aren't the flames dying?" Bella questions.

"The Fire Starter is most likely inside," Amber yells, "Do you see where the flames swell? Every time I target my ice there, the fire returns."

"I'm going in," Bella starts toward the fire.

"Cora, you have limited time before the building collapses," Caius warns, gripping onto her wrist to halt her, "And Amber cannot oust the fire completely."

"There are still children inside," Bella fights against his hold, "My mother is inside."

"Then go, Cora," Caius releases her, "But make sure you return."

He's looking for a promise from her that she cannot provide; all she can do is nod before she heads back to the pyre. The heat is twice as unwelcoming when she returns. Wings retracted once more, she runs through the fields of fire.

Though the scorching heat is painful, the real discomfort comes from the smoke. Her lungs feel as if they are slowly being sewn shut, steadily decreasing the amount of oxygen she receives. It's this sharp and suffocating sensation that slows her, but she can't afford to stop. Involuntary tears stream down her cheeks as she searches through each chamber. Suddenly, a loud clattering sounds above the crackling of burning wood. She follows the noise to the other side of the building.

The sight that greets Bella upon knocking down the door is of her mother, huddled in the far corner of the room. Peeking from behind her gray wings are the three missing children, and standing in the center of the area are two men, seemingly unaffected by the inferno surrounding them. Enraged by their nonchalance at watching others die, Bella stretches out her hand and wills her darkness to extend. The orange, water-like substance projects toward them but strikes a barrier.

Why do all my major battles include a Shielder?

"Isa!" Esme calls, "Take the children and get out of here, I will handle them."

Bella scoffs internally as she picks up a fallen, wooden beam and tries to strike the barrier. Cullen Isle had taught her that if she can put it under enough stress, she could break through. However, if she leaves with the children, it is an assured death sentence for Esme. Her mother hasn't fought a day in her life, and her singing capabilities would not be able to save her.

The beam snaps, barely rattling those inside the shield. Bella tries again, using the broken pieces to bombard the protected Volturi. An iron bed in the back of the room is her next choice for a battering ram. As her attempt fails again, one of the attackers laughs.

"Is that all you've got?" he goads.

"If you're so powerful, why are you hiding behind a shield?" Bella coughs out. The heat is beginning to overwhelm her, and the smoke is unbearable. From beneath her mother's wing, she can see the children slumped over, and Esme doesn't look too far behind.

If the choice is between getting the children and Esme out of the room and defeating the Volturi, then there is truly no competition. Bella reselects the bed, but this time, she launches the piece of furniture at the wall. Thankfully, the degraded structure means that the bed breaks through almost immediately. Bella rushes over to her mother and lays a hand against her face to rouse her,

"Aya-ma," she taps her cheek repeatedly, "You need to get up. You need to fly."

Esme opens her eyes weakly, "Isa? Isa, I told you to leave-,"

"I will, but I can't carry you and the children," Bella says. While speaking, she prompts her mother to stand. She's unsteady, but Esme remains on her feet.

Apparently, the Volturi does not appreciate Bella's efforts. A searing hand grips Bella's neck and drags her backward, causing her to thud against the ground. Disoriented, she begins to sit, a breath of relief leaving her as she sees Esme flying out of the hole in the wall with the children. She musters all the strength left within her to turn around to face the two Volturi, but finds them safely encased in their bubble once more.

She generates what can only be described as a tornado of objects. Mentally she orchestrates burning furniture and trinkets to begin circling her, allowing them to reach heights and speeds that will allow for maximum impact. When the strain becomes unbearable, she permits the multitude of objects to fall against the shield. The barrier wavers greatly, but it does not desist.

The smoke wins.

Unable to catch her breath, Bella drops to her knees, clutching at her throat as if the action will help her. Her vision begins to dim, and the world of ash and fire around her slowly disappears.

This isn't the end.

She knows this can't be the end.

Fate wouldn't be so cruel as to allow her to get this far and not have the satisfaction of seeing her father's corpse. Yet, as her consciousness wanes, she doesn't know how she'll make it out of this predicament. She still has so many promises to keep like returning to Caius, avenging Eleazar, and marrying Edward. Now is not her time to be defeated.

This is why she isn't surprised to feel the sparking of energy at the base of her spine. It's a familiar feeling, though it is more intense than she's ever experienced before.

Much like how the moon signals the end of the day, the moon guardian will arrive in the final hours.

Bella's insignia starts to burn, almost as hot as the flames around her. The sensation is so acute that she can practically feel it in every line of the mark. Her heart speeds to the point of discomfort, drowning out every sound around her. Consumed by the behaviors of her body, she almost doesn't register the figure walking toward her. Smoke obscures their features and makes it nearly impossible for her to identify them.

The figure stops in front of her, and reaches out. With remaining strength she didn't know she possessed, she accepts their hand.

Her world erupts.

Pure, unadulterated powerpours from her in the form of an orange wave. It crashes over the shield and disintegrates it, exposing the Volturi to the destruction they had caused. The torrents of orange wind around the enemies' limbs, infiltrating every crevice of their armor and clothing until it reaches their gaped mouths and seeps inside. The darkness constricts their limbs, siphoning every ounce of energy it can before leaving their bodies. By the time it has finished, all that is left are two piles of armor sitting in ash.

Hands still entwined, Bella leads her partner to the opening in the wall and flies them to safety. With full energy restored, and not an ounce of pain in her body, she launches herself into his arms with immeasurable gratitude. Tears trickle down her cheeks as she finally gets to speak to him for the first time in months, outside the confines of her mind.

"Alec," she gasps as she brings their joined hands to his cheek, "You came."

Alec uses his other hand to reach into his pocket and protract a round, smooth object. He offers what appears to be a fruit to her with a mischievous smile and says, "I told you I'd bring you back an orange."


Terminology and Facts

Geography:

Cullenia: Comprised of the districts: Cullen Isle, Sattle, Was Inchus, Lunaria, Port Anchelus. Adjacent to Forxx.

Forxx: Comprised of the districts: L'Apush, Aryzonae, and Forxx (which contains The Capital). Adjacent to Volturia, but separated by the Pylae.

Volturia: Does not contain districts. Cities include Eclipsia, Voleuri, and Sonaria. Adjacent to Forxx, but separated by the Pylae.

Ida Flor: Small island nation (a bit larger than Cullen Isle). National fruit is the orange.

The Pylae: a large valley that separates Forxx and Volturia. Three bridges are used to cross: the West Gate by L'APush, the Center Gate, and the East Gate by The Capital. Border control exists on both sides of the Pylae.

Terminology

Lunaronna –Queen [Cullenian]

Ver'mia –Worm eater [Forxian]

V'a per'so –I permit it.

Ett'io –Short form response to the greeting/wishing "Uni'sia I'sia Forxia," and means "In you there is flight as well." [Forxian]


"It's so much darker when a light goes out than it would have been if it had never shone." -John Steinbeck

~CH