Chapter 5

It was the day Alice had been anxiously waiting for, New Year's Eve. The sun peeked over the horizon, spreading its first golden rays of sunshine, and Alice giggled as Edward sat down beside her on the sandy, white beach.

"How can you be so calm after last night? Alexander is torn, Caleb is frustrated, and Nilas cannot let go of the past, but all you seem to care about is this party," accused Edward.

"I cannot wait to see the ice sculpture of Volterra."

"Have you even heard a word that I said?"

"Yes, I simply am choosing to ignore you."

"Well your party isn't going to happen if there is trouble within the guard." Alice slapped his shoulder.

"How dare you say something say cruel! Look, I understand that right now, everyone involved is upset, but will you for once trust me?" Edward closed his eyes and read her thoughts as she sifted through her visions.

"Fine Alice, you win. I am about to go spend time with my mate until we are summoned for the meeting. I still do not understand why we need to be there."

"Because we technically are the cause of all of the changes and Nilas's issues stem from us eliminating his best friend, Demitri."

"And you have failed to mention that tidbit of information for what reason exactly?"

"I knew you would worry your pretty little bronze head over nothing."

"No wonder he has been blocking me out with his incessant ramblings in his mind. I have to go tell Carlisle and Esme."

"And who is the one trying to meddle now," challenged Alice.

"This is important!"

"I am telling you it will be fine. It will all work out. Nothing gets past me, Edward, nothing," she declared. Suddenly, Connell and Tia appeared in front of her and she let out a yelp. Edward could not contain his laughter and Alice stuck her tongue out at him before slapping Connell's shoulder.

"Connell, you know I hate it when you do that!"

"And yet it never gets old wee one," cooed Connell as he patted the top of her head. Tia gave Alice a hug.

"It is good to see you again, Alice. Where are Benjamin and Tanya," asked Tia.

"Inside the main villa discussing the high council meeting."

"What high council meeting? What is going on," questioned Connell and Alice rolled her eyes.

"Don't give me that look, Connell. It is fine. There was just a little scuffle last night between Caleb and Nilas."

"Nilas, why am I not surprised that he is involved? He was close with Demitri, Felix, and Alec."

"What about Jane," asked Tia and Connell smirked.

"No one liked Jane, but she was respected. It doesn't surprise me that Nilas is still having issues. A lot has happened to the Volturi over the past years. I still cannot believe that his loyalty to Marcus and Didyme would falter, but obviously it has if a high council meeting has been declared."

"Marcus and Didyme hope that by clearing the air now, it will ease any tension that could arise in the future. They know that vampires do not accept change easily and do not want anyone in the guard to resent the way the Volturi has progressed over the years. Nilas and Tyra may have caused this, but there are others in the Volturi that are concerned," confessed Edward. Benjamin and Tanya ran over to join them and Tia gave them each a hug.

"We thought we heard you out here. Only Connell can make Alice yell like that," teased Benjamin and Alice rolled her eyes.

"He doesn't play fair," she grumbled.

"We are so happy you two could make it for the party tonight. Everyone is getting so excited. Tia, what are you going to wear," asked Tanya and Ti

a groaned.

"I brought a couple of dresses, but nothing seems to fit the occasion," answered Tia.

"Do not listen to her. She looks stunning in all of them. Go with the green one, mo ghrá," encouraged Connell before kissing her neck. Tanya clapped happily.

"Oh good, you are undecided like Zafrina and I are. Come shopping with us, there is so much to choose from in Porto Rotondo," suggested Tanya.

"That sounds like fun," said Tia.

"Great, come on, let's go round up the girls," said Tanya and Benjamin gulped as he watched Tanya and Tia link arms and disappear into the villa. Connell smiled smugly at him.

"What's wrong, afraid they are going to compare notes," teased Connell and Benjamin grumbled as he went back to the villa. Connell laughed at Benjamin's response, but then became somber as he turned his attention to Alice and Edward.

"When is the meeting," asked Connell.

"This afternoon, before the party, I am sure they would not mind if you are there. You understand what it is like to be a part of the new guard better than we ever could," said Edward and Connell slowly nodded.

"That is true. I should go speak with Alexander. I am sure he is upset," said Connell. Edward nodded in agreement and nudged Alice.

"And you should go speak with Caleb," he suggested.

"Why me?"

"Because you helped orchestrate him coming to Italy in the first place."

"So did you," she accused and they glared at each other. Edward pulled a gold coin from his pocket.

"Flip you for it," he asked, but she grabbed the coin before it could land in his palm again.

"No, it would take forever. I would see the result and you would read my mind. Come on, let's go make someone else do it."

"Deal," chuckled Edward as he followed his sister back to the main villa.

Nilas stared out the window of the study in Marcus and Didyme's mansion. He could hear his brother's approach and glanced at him out the corner of his eye.

"Not as stealthy today," said Nilas.

"I wanted you to hear me coming, so you could have time to prepare your apology."

"My apology, for what, feeling the way that I feel?"

"Nilas…."

"Alexander, I don't agree with the way things are. I am sorry if that disappoints you."

"What disappoints me is that my brother is the cause of friction on a day that should be joyous for us all. What disappoints me is that instead of voicing your concerns to Marcus and Didyme, you tried to provoke a member of the guard."

"A member that never should have been allowed to join in the first place, Alexander…"

"Enough Nilas, you are allowed to have your opinion, but if you cannot respect this guard, then you do not respect me. You need to choose whether you wear that medallion of honor or need to relinquish your rights to it at the meeting."

"What if I do? Does that mean I relinquish my rights to be your brother?" Alexander scoffed and placed a hand on his little brother's shoulder.

"Oh Nilas, if you believe that then I truly have failed you. You will always be my brother. I just cannot protect you from yourself anymore." Nilas returned his focus to the sea outside and Lena entered the room.

"Alexander, Connell is here to speak with you. I will make sure Nilas doesn't leave," said Lena and Alexander kissed her tenderly before going to find Connell. Nilas glared at Lena as she joined him by the window.

"I am not a prisoner."

"No, but you are a coward." He glowered at her as he crossed his arms.

"How dare you speak to me that way! I am still a member of this guard."

"For now, but your actions have put your future in this guard at risk. Were they even worth it?"

"At least I stood up for what I believe in."

"And what is that exactly? You obviously do not believe in family or you wouldn't put your brother is this position."

"Alexander makes his choices and I make mine. We are adults."

"Then start acting like one!"

"I took a stand last night and I do not regret it."

"A stand for what, you still have not answered that question."

"They do not belong in the guard. Before all of these changes, before the Cullens got involved, such creatures wouldn't even be fathomed as an option for the guard."

"The Cullens got involved because Aro forced them to. They did not want any of this, but it worked out for the best. How quickly you forget the terror that Aro brought with his reign."

"At least he believed in ruling with an iron fist. This new Volturi with its peace talks and everyone has a choice mentality is draining and it is a façade. Rulers are in charge for a reason. They set expectations and demand they be followed."

"So that is what you think, that Marcus and Didyme are weak?"

"I love them both, you know that, but it is better to be feared and respected than loved by many, but walked all over." Lena laughed bitterly.

"If you truly believe that then you are mistaken and a fool. Do not take their kindness for weakness. Order and stability reign supreme over the vampire world as we speak. Yes, they want to make sure that everyone can remain at peace. Why is that so wrong to you? It is better than the fear and terror that Aro brought to us all. You know what the real tragedy is, Nilas? If you had it your way and Aro were still in charge, your fate would already be sealed. Your actions last night were treason and even speaking of such doubts against the rulers of our world would be considered against our code as well. Face it Nilas, if Aro were still around, you would be dead." Nilas looked down as she stormed out of the room, leaving him alone with his thoughts.

Caleb found himself standing on the cliff overlooking the island and beach. He watched the yachts and boats parking on the dock and unloading more vampires onto the island by the hour. The air was electric, a mix of excitement and tension as both the meeting and the party drew near.

"Don't jump. It isn't worth it," teased Jacob as he walked over to him and Caleb smirked.

"Very funny, what are you doing here?"

"I lost a coin toss."

"What?"

"Never mind, look I am here because I know you are feeling pretty crappy right now but things are going to be just fine, Caleb."

"I am not so sure about that. Trouble just has a way of finding me. All I wanted to do last night was propose to Sofi and I ended up in a fight with Nilas and having to face the high council."

"Whoa, you proposed?"

"I was getting there. I was down on one knee when Nilas interrupted."

"I would have gone ballistic."

"Yea, but maybe it was fate stepping in. Maybe I am not what is best for Sofi. I love her and I would do anything for her, even if that means leaving so that she can have the best life possible."

"So because a punk like Nilas interrupted your proposal, you are just going to give up?"

"It is always something, Jake. I am just tired of fighting the inevitable. Maybe I am meant to be alone."

"First off, that's crap. Second, if you were meant to be alone, you wouldn't have imprinted on Sofi."

"You imprinted on Renesmee but she is with Nahuel."

"But our situation was completely different. It was far more complicated and so was I. You know Caleb, you aren't the first wolf to feel lost or go off on his own."

"Yea right," grumbled Caleb.

"Look, I don't really talk about this often because it brings up bad memories for all involved, but at one point I took off and left everyone behind. It was after I found out that Bella was going to marry Edward."

"Oh right, you two had a thing before you imprinted on Renesmee. I guess you are more screwed up than I am."

"Thanks for that, but in all seriousness, I thought about being a lone wolf and figured that everyone would be better off without me. That wasn't true though and I was meant to imprint on Renesmee so that I could protect her and the Cullens from the pack. I was meant to be a part of this family, no matter how complicated it can be at times, so take it from someone that has felt angry, lost, and like they do not belong. Embrace the people in your life that love you and here comes one of them right now." Caleb smiled as Sofi walked over to them. Jacob patted Caleb on the back and left to give them some privacy.

"I woke up and you weren't there. I was worried," said Sofi and Caleb smiled sheepishly.

"I just needed to clear my head."

"Caleb, I know you are upset about last night but…."

"It isn't just about last night. I feel like I can't win sometimes, like nothing I ever do is good enough. I finally found you and am in this amazing place, but here comes someone like Nilas." She cupped his face in her hands to make sure he made eye contact with her.

"Then don't let him win. Don't let anyone take this from us. Caleb, I love you and that isn't going to change. You are my mate, so get it out of your head right now that you are leaving me because it isn't happening." His eyes widened.

"How did you know….."

"Alice told me."

"Of course she did," he grumbled.

"You are not going anywhere. If anyone needs to leave, it is Nilas. If he can't accept us, then that is his problem, not ours."

"Speaking of people that can't accept us," he mumbled as Roman and Iris jogged over to them. Roman immediately pulled Sofi in for a hug.

"We just heard about Nilas. I knew we should have checked in with you last night. Are you two okay? Caleb, you didn't get hurt did you," questioned Roman, which surprised Caleb.

"Uh, no we are fine. Nilas didn't get a chance to do any damage," said Caleb.

"Alice told us how you two were ambushed. Don't worry, we will deal with Nilas together," assured Roman.

"Really," asked Caleb and Iris scoffed.

"I know the three of us didn't got off on the right foot, but you are family now. Sofi loves you and we know you love her. Anyone that tries to harm you has to deal with us," explained Iris.

"Damn right," added Roman and he chuckled when Sofi jumped into his arms.

"I knew you would come around," said Sofi before kissing Roman's cheek. Caleb sighed in relief as Iris hugged him and Sofi beamed with happiness. The mates shared a knowing glance and he nodded at her, knowing that any lurking thoughts of leaving her were null and void.

As the sun began to hang lower and lower in the air, everyone but Alice was tense. They made their way into the biggest estate on Isola Marcime, Marcus and Didyme's mansion, and Josh and Zach whispered back and forth as they looked at all of the antiques and priceless artifacts along the walls.

"That sword is awesome," whispered Zach.

"I want that shield," whispered Josh and their mothers shushed them. Alice giggled at the boys' excitement.

"Wait until you see the meeting grounds. It is quite impressive and impeccably designed. Caleb, Sofi, Roman, and Iris are already inside," explained Alice as a guard bowed before them and opened two massive, wooden doors that led to the assembly room.

"Cullens, Denalis, welcome, please follow me," said the guard before descending down the dimly lit stairs. The hallway began to narrow with each step and the only light around was candlelight as the doors closed behind them.

"This is kind of creepy," whispered Garrett and Eleazar shushed him.

"We are officially on sacred ground," whispered Eleazar. They turned a corner and went down another flight of stairs before being able to see light peering below. Everyone, but Alice and Edward were surprised to see a circular, spacious room as they reached the bottom of the steps. It was bright, lavish, and impeccably designed, just like Alice said it would be. The entire room was made of marble and pillars were situated all around it. Each guard was present and had a seat around the room. They were cloaked in black and standing, waiting for the meeting to begin. Two thrones were situated at the far end of the room and the guard led them over to stand by them, along with Caleb, Sofi, Roman, and Iris. Nahuel and Kaya embraced their siblings.

"How are you holding up, Caleb," asked Nahuel. Caleb kissed Sofi's hand.

"Fine as long as she is by my side," he answered. Nilas glared at Caleb from across the room where he stood with his mate and two guards that flanked him. Alice looked down at her watch and beamed as all of the guards shifted toward the entrance at once, their eyes trained on it.

"It is time," she whispered and footsteps could be heard descending the stairs. Lena and Alexander were the first to emerge in their cloaks and they bowed their heads to each side of the room to acknowledge their guards. As soon as Marcus and Didyme entered the room, all of the guards bowed down onto one knee in unison. The couple was adorned in their traditional meeting attire of hand-woven gold, red, and black silk robes. They did not wear hoods like the rest of the Volturi and held hands as they glided over to their thrones.

"Whoa," whispered Josh and Zach in awe of the power of Marcus and Didyme. It was the first time the boys realized the magnitude of the Volturi's power and Marcus and Didyme as rulers. Marcus and Didyme took their positions at their thrones and smiled warmly at everyone. All of the guards continued to bow until Alexander removed his hood, giving the order for everyone to remove theirs as well and take a seat. Marcus's voice echoed around the room authoritatively.

"Today we have gathered to discuss the tension amongst us. The Cullens, Denalis, and the rest of our friends have gathered because it affects us all. Last night, Nilas led his mate in an ambush of two of our own, Caleb and Sofi. Roman, Iris, I understand that you would like to stand beside your sister and her mate in their defense, is that correct?" Roman nodded.

"Yes, we believe if Nilas has a problem with them, he has a problem with us," stated Roman.

"And what about you Alexander, as I said before, I understand if you feel the need to stand before us as Nilas's brother instead of the head of the guard," said Marcus, but Alexander shook his head. Nilas glared at his brother and Alexander averted his eyes as he spoke.

"I will always be his brother, but this is a matter for the guard," responded Alexander. Didyme smiled sympathetically at him.

"Very well then, let us begin. Nilas, please voice the concerns that led to the confrontation," urged Didyme and Nilas stepped toward the middle of the room to address not only Marcus and Didyme, but all of the guards.

"I remember a time when being a Volturi guard was rare, respected, and even feared. When Alexander and I joined, it was because Demitri believed we could be great. He taught us how to track and be the best guards possible for the cause. There were rules enforced back then that are no longer applied and while yes, Aro had his flaws, the shift in the foundation of the Volturi has weakened it," explained Nilas as he glanced at Carlisle. Alice smiled proudly at Edward as he stormed into the middle of the room to face Nilas.

"And you blame us," accused Edward.

"Edward," hissed Esme as she motioned for him to stand by the rest of the family again.

"I am sorry, but this needs to be said. His thoughts are not to my liking," argued Edward and Marcus nodded for him to continue.

"By all means, I am sure there is more that Nilas is holding back," agreed Marcus. Edward turned to face the rest of the guards.

"Yes, we are the reason members of the original Volturi are dead and we are the reason Roman, Iris, Sofi, and Caleb were able to join the guard, but let me make this clear. We never wanted to be involved in any of this. Aro was obsessed with our abilities. Everyone here knows that. It is the reason so many of you hid from him. I know most of you are pleased with the new rule, but to those who are not, you know who you are, understand that Aro brought about this change, not us," declared Edward.

"Did Aro cause the encouragement of an animal diet? Did he allow our guard to be infiltrated with half breeds and wolves? No, the Cullens caused this and Marcus and Didyme are so blinded by the great and powerful Cullens that they will hand Italy over on a platter," shouted Nilas and Alexander let out a warning growl.

"Tread lightly brother," warned Alexander.

"I speak nothing but the truth."

"Something you only do because Marcus and Didyme allow it, unlike Aro. Do not think for a second that I will stand here and let you belittle any of us in the process," threatened Alexander.

"All I want is for tradition to be upheld, traditions that were praised for centuries," defended Nilas and Didyme stood from her throne.

"Traditions that my brother was willing to kill for," reminded Didyme and all eyes were immediately on her. "Nilas, he was my brother, but it did not stop him from taking my life because he believed it would serve his cause. Much like you, Aro hated change. He murdered me because of his fear of it, his fear of my love for Marcus and his for me, but we were blessed with another chance, so is the Volturi as a whole. We are here to celebrate that change, a change for the better, and that will not be disputed any longer. What can be decided is if you still believe you can be a part of this guard. It is up to you and your mate. You are free to go whenever you please, but know that we cannot allow for so much tension to continue."

"It is your choice," added Marcus and Nilas glanced at his mate as he thought about the choice in front of him. Alexander walked over to his brother and gave a sad smile.

"I can already tell the choice you have made. Maybe I was the one too blind to see that you have not been happy for some time," confessed Alexander and Nilas slowly nodded.

"This life isn't for me anymore," admitted Nilas.

"Then I guess from now on, you will simply be my little brother," said Alexander. Marcus gave a somber nod as he stood up to join his mate.

"And so it is done. Nilas, Tyra, your time with us has been much appreciated, but if you are not happy here any longer, you are free to go," announced Marcus. Emmett huffed as Nilas and Tyra hugged Marcus and Didyme.

"Wait, that's it? What is going to stop this guy from attacking someone again," asked Emmett and Esme shushed him. Nilas glanced at his brother before addressing Emmett.

"Because even though I don't believe I fit in the guard anymore, my brother still does and I would never want to disappoint him in that way," answered Nilas. Alexander winked at his brother.

"Besides, he knows I can keep him in line if need be. I always have," assured Alexander before hugging his brother. Lena hugged Tyra and Nilas as well before the two former guards departed. Marcus looked around the room at the rest of his guards.

"We know much has changed. We believe it is much needed change, but anyone else that does not feel that way is free to go with them. There will be no judgment passed or resentment. We only want those here that feel it is their place," explained Marcus. The rest of the guards immediately bowed and so did Alexander and Lena.

"I believe this is our way of saying, you are stuck with us," informed Alexander and Didyme laughed. A blissful smile appeared on Jasper's lips as Didyme's aura pulsed from her and spread around the room.

"Wonderful, then let us celebrate with our friends," she announced and Alice let out a squeal of delight as the guards erupted in cheers. Marcus chuckled at her exuberance.

"I assume that sound means all is well now," asked Marcus and Edward's eyes widened as he read his sister's thoughts. Alice shrugged.

"For the most part, but do not worry, the best parties need a bit of drama. Anyways, chop, chop everyone needs to get ready for the festivities," instructed Alice as the guards filed out of the room. Marcus glanced at Carlisle for an answer, but Carlisle simply shrugged.

"We try not to question her too much. It all works out in the end," explained Carlisle. Marcus nodded in understanding.

"Then let us celebrate," he announced and everyone exited to go get ready for the celebration.