Disclaimer: I do not own any part of the 'Twilight Universe'.

A/N: I apologise profoundly for the delay. Hopefully you like the new chapter. I am so grateful for reviews- For the praising ones as much as for the criticizing ones. Thank you! Do you like when I answer to them or do you think it disturbing?

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In reaction, we all freeze.

'This Victoria is after my Bella's blood?'

Marcus POV:

I go to wake her from her nightmare. Before I get to her, however, Aro calls me back:

"Marcus, let her sleep. It may not be peaceful, but it is sleep and she is in dire need of it. She will wake on her own accord when it gets too bad. Tomorrow, we will have to talk with her some more. We need to know about this 'Victoria,' as she is obviously the one who killed her father and hurt her."

"But if this woman is still after her, she might not be safe in here! You heard her! She is practically waiting to be attacked! I will NOT leave her unattended!!" I am outraged, and can barely control the volume of my voice at this point.

"Aro, our brother has a point. The bedroom has a balcony in front. It is easily accessible from below, don't you think?" Athenodora agrees.

"I guess another guard should do the job. Would you feel better then, Marcus? Though I have to admit I deem it unnecessary. Who would get past the guards patrolling the streets?"

"Aro, dear, she can not defend herself in the least, and would not be able to hold that crazy female off, should she slip past the guards in the streets. I would rather be safe than sorry. I completely agree with Marcus here. She is simply too fragile. I would hate to see her hurt and Marcus along with her, for that fact."

I love my sister.

"Who should we place below the balcony then? I think it best to just order one of the guards on patrol to keep close to the castle, and especially close to the balcony of you private chamber. That way there will always be someone there. Shall we go sit in your study again, Marcus? Let us give Isabella some privacy during her sleeping hours. We will hear her should something else disturb her sleep, although, I confess I find her somniloquentia most interesting. It gives us a glimpse into her mind. What I wouldn't give to be able to read her... and there is the possibility of her being a somnambulist, too. I have never seen one with my own eyes... you are right brother. We will have her guarded. The stories I have heard about sleepwalking people and the dangers they end up in...let us not dwell on uncertainties, though. For now she is safe, and we will ensure it stays that way."

A short lived silence follows Aro's words, during which we are all looking at her sleeping form.

She has closed the curtains, yet a small ray of moonlight shines through a little gap and meets the porcelain skin of her arm, making it shimmer like the moon itself. Sleeping Beauty. If ever someone could personify this fairytale figure, it would be her. How in the world I am worthy of her, I do not know. I will not question Fate. I will cherish her, no questions asked. Forever, if she will let me.

"Furthermore, I think we should share your musings with the others and have their opinions, don't you think Marcus?" Aro simply had to interrupt the moment of peace, didn't he?

"What musings? Is this about the conversation you had with her earlier Marcus? What facts did you learn?" Caius' tone is accusing. He is always so quick to suspect the worst, and always afraid of us withholding information from him.

"Yes Aro, I think it best we take this conversation to my study. After you, please."

I wait for them to exit the room before I take a last, longing look at the beauty on the bed and speak out a little louder as so to be heard: "Jane, Alec would you please come to my chambers?"

A synchronously whispered "Yes, Master." reaches my ears before a soft knocking indicates their arrival.

"Come in please. Hold your breath, if you are not absolutely sure about your control."

They enter. The vampires are the youngest changed, that we know of at least, who are able to control themselves and in consequence, are still alive. They seem so innocent, so youthful and naïve. But appearances are deceitful: they are some of the deadliest, most talented vampires in existence.

"Jane, Alec. Miss Swan, as you well know, is our guest and she will stay with us for quite some time. It would seem one of our kind harbours ill feelings towards her, and is currently tracking her. I would like you to inform the others that one of those guarding the city is to remain close to the balcony leading to her, at all times. He or she is not to be distracted, not to leave the site, not even if distracted. It might all be a trick in the end. No one is to get to her."

"Yes, Master, we understand. We will see to it. No one will get close to her, we promise."

Alec often acts as the spokesperson for the twins. As he does now.

"Good. Thank you. You can leave now." In confirmation of my words, I nod.

As soon as they are out the door I am at Isabella's side, and ever so lightly stroke some hair, which has fallen upon her face, aside. She does not stir. As I turn to the door, the smiling faces of my sisters meet my eyes and I have to look away, embarrassed for being caught.

They simply vanish into the study and take their respective seats next to their mates. Dora, however, can not help but to take Aro's hand inconspicuously, informing him of what has just transpired. His eyes merely light a shade and he sends a small smile my way in support.

"So, what is all the secrecy about? Why are we here, again?" Ah...Caius.

"Caius, there is something I wanted to tell you..." I state in a dangerously, calm and sweet voice.

"If you EVER threaten Isabella again, as you did today, you will pay dearly. I will protect her from anything posing a threat to her. And I mean 'ANYTHING'. Are we clear on that topic, brother? Or do I need to elaborate?"

"Brother, I think you got your point across pretty clearly. We should move on to the next topic, I think. You see..."

Aro yet again diffuses a tense topic by changing the subject.

"...when Marcus had a conversation with Isabella today, after her dinner. He gathered a few facts himself. It would appear that Isabella did not only befriend one of our kind, but fell in love with him. The fact that she has a broken bond very similar to the bond of mates, supports his theory. In addition to that, he sees another 6 bonds that are too strong for humans, yet all the same: broken and still weeping. He guesses that those belong to the other coven members. After all, they did fight for her, which indicates a bond stronger than those of friends formed out of convenience."

"So we are talking about a coven of seven vampiresthat the human befriended? In the northern part of the USA?" Caius words hold incredulity as he once again interrupts Aro. "Well, well, well. That only leaves the 'Cullen Clan' then, does it not? I never understood your fascination with Carlise, Aro. But he never gave us reason to pay him a visit. Now we have all the reason to do so. He broke the law..."

While his words trail off, his lips form a devilish smile and his gaze becomes dreamy. I can only imagine his glee at the prospect of hurting someone he dislikes. After his outburst, we fall into quietness, everyone contemplating the consequences of our findings.

"I do not think it is as easy as that, Love." I am surprised to hear Dora speaking...and disagreeing with her mate at that... she has my complete attention, now.

"Firstly, we do not know for sure whether it is Carlisle's coven. While I, too, think it is highly probable, alas we have no proof. We can not begin to act based on suspicions and guesses."

Cia, Aro and I nod in agreement, which seems to be the only encouragement she needs to continue.

"Secondly, we have to consider the consequences of said actions, even if they prove to be just and right."

"Yes, yes, I am thinking along the same lines, sister. I mean, play the situation through before your minds' eye: We confront the Cullens and Aro reads their memories.

Case one: You Aro, find our suspicions unfounded. We will look like complete idiots for acting on a whim. That would be humiliating and the news will spread like a wildfire.

Case two: Our suspicion is confirmed, What then? We will have to annihilate the Cullens, as that is the only punishment given to punish such behaviour. Their death in turn, would arouse interest and rumours. Carlisle has many friends, despite his odd way of living. In consequence, to show compliance regarding our own laws, we would have to either kill Isabella, or change her right then.

Neither alternative is very tempting to me. For one, I have always been fond of Carlisle.

More importantly: judging by the fact that her bonds, as you tell us, Marcus, are still weeping, she might still like them and would blame their deaths on us. Not a good starting point for a relationship, if you ask me. If we changed her while she harboured such hatred for us, there is no way to tell how she will react once she awakens from the change. No, that is not a desirable option. And killing her is, of course, out of the question."

"Then, dear sister, pray tell us, what are we to do then? Leave the situation as it is?"

Caius' words are dripping with sarcasm as he answers to Cia's words. I find her reasoning flawless, as always.

"Yes, Caius. Exactly that. Nothing good ever comes out of rushed actions. For now, everyone is in the dark about our suspicions, apart from us. As my Love has pointed out, there is not really anything we can do that does not carry the potential to end in disaster. This situation is very delicate, and needs to be handled with great care. The balance is fragile. So, for now I think it best to sit back and watch as things change and unfold. We can always reconsider this decision at a later time. I vote for waiting."

"I do as well" Cia is quick to follow suit.

"As do I." I agree.

"Caius, my dear, you need to see the dangers that hasty actions might entail. And we have time. We can afford to wait a little while and see how things go, can we not? I vote in favour of waiting, too." Even Dora wants to wait.

"Perfect. Now that this matter is decided, I would like to address things we need to do tomorrow."

Aro is back to his cheery self so quick that it is hard to believe he has been serious just a split second ago.

Caius huffs. Whether in annoyance or defeat, I do not know. Perhaps a combination of both.

I am worried that my brothers and sisters have come to the same conclusion as I have. Have I misjudged our old friend so severely? How much do they know about Isabella's situation? There are so many questions, and as of yet no answers to them. The situation is so vague and uncertain, and I do not like it. Not at all. Yet, as Cia has just explained, there is nothing we can do about it. I simply have to make the most of this situation.

"Marcus, as I think you will most likely spend a rather large amount of time in Isabella's presence, it would be wisest to satiate your thirst, and the sooner the better."

Aro pauses, but before I can object that I have enough control as to not hurt her, he carries on:

"I know you can very well go a few more days without struggle, but Isabella might feel uncomfortable with your eyes being black. She knows of the meaning of the colour, has noticed it in your eyes already, and you have observed her reaction. I would appreciate it greatly if you would try to talk to her, to gain some more knowledge on every aspect possible. Our main concern should be that female, though, as she poses an immediate threat to her."

He looks at me calculating, gauging my expression. I can only assent with his reasons. It would not help to have her on edge around me. I nod.

"Very well. Heidi, please leave to find nourishment for Marcus. Take it to the feeding room and let us know when you have done so."

Aro clearly is in his element: Planning, Organizing, Instructing, Observing the completion of the plot. No wonder he has been so successful in his past life...

"Then there still is the issue of the essentials she will need: clothing, toiletries and anything else she might require. As Heidi is currently unavailable, I was thinking about Chelsea for this task?" Aro's voice raises at the end in question.

"Perhaps I can help with that? I would love to do something to make her more comfortable here and it would give me an excuse to get to know her better. Oh how much fun we could have! How do you feel about that Aro, Marcus?" Sulpicia's eyes are alight with the possibilities that are undoubtedly running amok in her head. She has always been an active, sociable person. Very upbeat. And she has excellent taste in clothing.

Before any of us have the chance to say anything, it is Athenodora who speaks in answer.

"If it would be alright, I would like to offer my help in this project as well. I think I should at least make an effort to get to know her. She will be staying with us for quite a while it seems, and I would like to give her a chance, try to not be led by my prejudices. Especially when it is so likely that she will become a sister to me."

"Oh yes, that would be wonderful Dora! She will need everything! Socks, undergarments, casual and formal dresses, jackets, cloaks, shoes, bags... and the list goes on and on! Not to mention toiletries, shampoo, perfume... so many things to consider. We might have to ask Gianna for tips as I have no idea what people these days need. This is so exciting! Please, Aro Love, let us handle that!"

When I saw the hopeful look on their faces, looking at my brother I knew he was lost. Never would he say 'no' to his mate and his sister. Especially not when hit by the combined charm of them together.

"Of course, My Love. I know the outcome will be stunning if you do it. Though it is not a task I would place on you." Aro concedes.

"Oh no, my dear, we do so gladly. It is in no way an unpleasantry, don't you agree, Dora?"

A rare genuinely happy smile finds its' way onto my other sisters' lips, as she answers:

"No, indeed not. It is a most welcome occupation."

"Very well, so you two will handle this matter." Aro seems truly content with the way things go.

"I myself, will read into some medical books, to freshen up the acquired knowledge. It is quite foggy and I do not like looking into it so much. In addition I will have a look into those medical reports Colin has brought. I am sure there is a lot we can do to help her mentally and physically."

He smiles in anticipation of learning something new and putting it into use.

"So, then, what role am I to play in the project called 'nursing a human'?" Caius' voice rises for the second time, while being here, coloured in displeasure. I can only gape at him with what must be an expression of pure shock and surprise on my features. Cia and Dora look likewise.

"What? Do you think I will just sit around and not do anything? Looking like a lazy bum or scapegoat? Ha, as if. So, Aro, tell me what you have planned for me, so we can get this over with. I do not like being here. I would rather be in the throne room. Or our private quarters. You see, we do have obligations apart from the human."

"Ahem...well, there is the topic of nourishing her properly, healthfully, so that she can recover properly. And although I do trust our guard to keep her safe, they might need a supervisor..." Aro offers carefully.

"You want me to be her cook? Are you insane? It stinks, their food does! Such a disgusting smell! You can not be serious, Aro! I will supervise the guard, but I will not cook!"

"Shh, Caius...Caius please calm yourself, you will wake her. Shh." Cia scolds.

We listen intently to the sounds coming from the room next door. Her heart rate has risen and her breathing has quickened. She is awake.

I glare daggers at him and rise from my seat.

"Well done, Caius! She has only slept a few hours and has already suffered from a nightmare during that short period of time, and now you woke her!" I hiss in anger.

I knock softly on the door.

"Come in?" She speaks so softly, her voice shaking.

I enter slowly as to not scare her further. She is in a sitting position and looking at me uncertainly with eyes widened in fear. Her hair a wild mess from thrashing and turning. She still looks spent, nowhere remotely near to well rested.

'I hate Caius!' I scream inside.

No sound is to be heard from the other room. The silence is absolute.

"Isabella, please don't be afraid. I am sorry our conversation woke you. No harm will come to you." I try to soothe her, while I walk closer to her bed.

She indicates her understanding with a short inclination of her head.

"Will you be able to find sleep again? Is there something that might help you?"

"Actually, I think I would like a sip of water, you don't have to bother, I can get it myself." With those words she begins to crawl from the bed.

Without thinking about it, I am at her side and pressure her to stay in bed by placing my hand on her forearm. She is radiating heat and her scent is intoxicating, as she just folded back the bedspread to get off the bed. I swallow hard.

"Please, stay in bed. I will gladly get it for you." She scoots back and slips back under the covers.

"Thank you." Those two small words brighten my mood. I love to hear her voice. I am almost grateful that Caius has awoken her. By doing so I got to hear her voice earlier than anticipated. But only almost.

I fill her glass, which had still been standing on the little table, filling it with water from the jug. It is not cold, but not too warm either, I think. On my way back into the bedroom I give Caius a nasty look, telling him I am not at all happy with the way things are.

"Here you go Bella." She takes a good swig of water before putting the now almost empty glass on the nightstand.

"Would you like some more?" I ask. I don't want her to lack in anything.

"No, no, I am fine. Thank you."

The following silence is somewhat awkward, yet I do not know what to say, nor can I find the strength to leave the room just yet.

"Would you happen to know what time it is? I completely lost track of it..."

I chance a fleeting look away from her to the clock on the wall. It is too dark for her to see. 'I will have to get one for her to be put on the nightstand'

"It is only 3:30 am. Will you be able to go back to sleep?"

"Thank you. Yes, I will try to sleep some more... good night again..."

"Good night Bella. If you need anything, just call out. Sleep well."

With a longing last look, I turn and go back to my awaiting family, closing the door silently behind me. When I am seated I turn to Caius. At least he has the decency to look sheepish and guilty.

"I am sorry I awoke her, Marcus. I truly am." His eyes are sincerely repentant.

"Accepted. Just please, be more careful around her." I can not help but accept his apology. Him looking like he does right now, that does not occur often. I think I can count the occasions on the fingers of one hand.

"Now, in explanation: I did not mean for you to become her cook. I merely meant to imply that you might gather knowledge about healthy foods and monitor her recovery from the point of view of a nutritionist. You could instruct the cook on what to make and such. And it is good to have you monitor her safety." Aro says.

"I think I can manage to do that. She is in need of proper nourishment, even I can see as much. Is there something else we need to discuss? What about this Victoria? Do we have any information on her?"

"Thank you, Caius. I appreciate this gesture of goodwill."

"You are welcome, Marcus. Anything to have the old you back again. In the name of that I can put up with her, but I do not completely trust her."

"We can accept that, Caius. Apart from the topics discussed, I think we covered every aspect. We will only have to introduce her to the guard in the near future. They all know of her, of course, but only few have actually seen her." Aro concludes.

"Yes, we shall do that. I plan on giving her a tour of the castle tomorrow. We can make the introductions before that. What will she eat in the morning?"

"I will have Gianna take care of her breakfast and lunch. Come dinner time, the chef should be here." Aro informs me.

"Master Marcus, the meal is in the feeding room." We hear Heidi's voice float up to us.

"Go now, Marcus. Aro and I will stay here for as long as you need. We will look out for Isabella. Take your time. The past two days have clearly worn you out. Caius and Dora can just go on their way."

Sulpicia is such a comfort for me.

"We will take our leave, Brothers, Sister." With that, Caius and Dora stand and leave my quarters.

"Very well. I will go and feed. Should there be anything strange though, call me at once!"

"Naturally Marcus. Go and enjoy yourself. Your eyes are black as pitch. It will do you good. As Heidi is back so early she might be of help to your project, my dear wife."

By the end of his sentence I am out of my room already. The sooner I get it over with, the sooner I will be back, close to her. Until then, she will be safe with Aro and Cia.

Let me know what you think about it. I try to update the next chapter soon. Thanks for reading!