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Chapter 3

'Alec seems nice, Jane.'

"He can be." She returned, with a slight eye roll . "I will leave you to your rest now. I will be in the corridor, should you need anything."

Before I could try to stop her from waiting outside like a sentry, she was gone. I sighed. Talking with Jane had been very interesting. She provided me with a viewpoint that I'm sure is fairly unique among the Volturi guard. Shunned by most, from either her apparent age or her ability, she has managed to earn a soft spot with the kings.

She told me of ruthless Aro's well known love for all things unusual. Which, I'm positive is one of the reasons they haven't killed me yet. Who stabs themselves to pour blood into a vampire's mouth, after all? She also told me how he takes time each week to talk to her and how he encourages her pursuits, whether they be the arts or intellectual study. She knows that this attention only serves to further estrange her from some of the others in the guard, but she would not change it.

We spoke briefly of the cause of Marcus' centuries long melancholy, but it didn't seem right to share idle gossip about such a devastating loss. She did tell me that before, when he still had his wife and soul mate Didyme, that he was quite the artist and promised to show me the pieces throughout the castle that were painted by him. She says he has been known to help her with her painting, when she finds a style difficult to master.

Her account of Caius only serves to confuse me. She shared, that of all the kings, Caius is the most violent and the most likely to condemn a vampire to death for breaking the rules. She went on to tell me that he has never once shown interest in a human outside of finding a meal, and has never been known to hide his disdain for my species in general. Jane has known him far longer than I have, but aside from either not speaking at all or being somewhat snappish, he has not shown any indication that he thinks less of me for being a human. Since he's been out of the cave, he's actually been quite nice to me. My mind can't seem to mesh the two sides into one vampire. Perhaps it's only gratitude? I do know I am not looking forward to the day Caius returns to 'business as usual'. He is most likely accepting my presence as a means-to-an-end, to get the information he wants. I know that my life will most likely end once they have satiated their curiosity, but I have known for years of that possibility. That knowledge will not stop me from enjoying the comforts they are offering in the meantime.

I cross the dark wood floor of the room I've been given for the remainder of my stay. It is simply beautiful. Before now, I didn't know that a room could be undeniably grand without being ostentatious. The walls are a soft, glowing, creamy white. Now normally, I like more color. It is clear, however, that the focus of this room is obviously the architecture, and not the decor. The majority of the color is found by looking up. Beautiful blues, greens, and golds decorate the multitude of squares covering the entire ceiling. The walls are smooth, accented with finely carved moldings and panels of decorative wood trim. The arched windows, with their brilliant moss green curtains, are cased in the same dark wood as the floor, as well as the mantle surrounding the small fireplace directly across from the bed.

Nestled around the fireplace is a cozy conversation area, with two cream colored armchairs and a small pale green sofa with carved arms and feet. On one side of the bed is a bedside table, and on the other, a large wardrobe cabinet that is probably worth a small fortune. It is gorgeous.

As for the bed, I have fallen hopelessly and irrevocably in love. It is finished in a medium-dark brown, with carved panels making up the entire base. Four massive, spiraling posts then rise up to support another rectangle of carved panels, seemingly 'crowning' the bed. From this crown, hangs drapes of moss green, echoing the window panels, yet embroidered with ivory and shining gold. The bedspread is a luminous ivory, trimmed in the same embroidery accents, in gold and green.

When I had first hauled myself into the bed, to assure a snickering Jane and Alec that I could manage very well without a stool, I was amazed that a bed could feel so luxurious. It is supportive and pillowy at the same time, creating a perfect cradle for my, too old for its physical age, body. Many of my past injuries still cause me aches and pains, especially in cool months. Now, without my audience, I climb once more into my personal Heaven of a bed, and succumb to the call of sleep - not at all ashamed to be napping in the middle of the day like a child. Who would be, with a bed like this?

I woke slowly, only aware of being amazingly comfortable. The thick numbness of sleep still trying to pull me into its embrace. At this point, I am more than willing to comply. I have no idea what day it is, or why I've been asleep during the day - judging by the level of sunlight flooding the backs of my eyelids. All I know is that I feel more rested at this moment than I have in months, possibly longer.

I feel a small smile creep across my face. Here in this in-between - not in the void of unconsciousness, but also not fully aware of the world around me, I feel at peace. I hold on to this feeling tightly, and soak it up. If there's one thing I've learned from past experience, it's that peace never lasts. A low voice pulls me through the final stage of my passage to awareness. The words are so soft, I'm not sure they are meant for me to hear.

"And with only a smile, she brings the mighty to their knees."

I turn in the direction of the voice, and see Marcus. His whole body screams of his deeply rooted sadness. I had noticed it earlier, but at the time, didn't know the cause. I recognized it from my own heartbreaks. However, not even I can identify with the depth of despair that surrounds him like a cloak. I snapped up into a sitting position.

"I am sorry to disturb your rest. I came to see if I may request a favor of you."

As I scooted to the edge of the bed, Marcus approached and offered his hand to help me down. I retrieved my notebook from the bedside table.

'Yes, of course.'

"Thank you Isabella. The guard will assemble this evening at seven. We do not want any accidents to occur during your stay, so with every vampire present, we will introduce you as a special guest of the castle. It will make a more powerful impression if you are appropriately attired."

I couldn't decide if I felt embarrassed that I didn't own anything that would fall into the 'appropriate' category - when compared to the fine clothing worn by the kings, or worried that I would disappoint their expectations. What time is it? I might have time to buy something from one of the local shops. I have a little money still set aside for a rainy day. Why tonight? Why not tomorrow? My head began spinning, trying to iron out my options as quickly as possible.

He must have seen the worry on my face or heard my heart begin to accelerate, because he quickly continued.

"I know you were not forewarned about this evening, and have come to stay with us - also quite unexpectedly, with nothing - save the clothing you currently wear, in your possession. Isabella, you would do me a great honor if you would allow me to provide your attire for the evening." He spoke, while moving to retrieve a garment bag from a nearby chair. "I believe you will find everything you need here. Call for Jane when you are ready to dress. She will help with your preparations."

I was stunned that he had brought me an entire outfit to wear for this evening. Where did he even get it on such short notice? Do the Volturi keep wardrobes full of clothes just sitting around? I don't even care what it looks like. I'm sure it will be much nicer than I would have been able to get for myself, especially with such short notice. I smiled widely, as I showed him my ecstatic written appreciation as well.

A very small smile lifted the corners of his mouth briefly. "Until this evening then, Isabella." He said softly, just before ghosting out of the room.

Jane entered just moments later. Her eyes were as wide as mine and she let loose the squeal that desperately wanted to leap from my silent throat.

"Master Marcus brought you an outfit!" After we collected ourselves, she continued. "Shall we take a look?" At my emphatic nod, she opened the garment bag on the bed. Jane gasped as I stood there with my mouth open in astonishment.

Inside was the most beautiful gown I have ever seen in person. I pulled it completely out of the bag to get a better look. The fabric is deep blue velvet, fitted in the bodice and blending into a full floor length skirt. The neckline is almost a triangle, more narrow at the opening of the neck, widening as it goes down, then cuts straight across the bust. I hope it isn't too revealing. The sleeves look to hit around the elbow and the neckline and sleeve cuffs both showcase intricate silver embroidery. It is simple, but striking. I cannot believe I get to wear this fabulous dress tonight. Inside the bag is another, rather large piece of fabric. It's a cloak! The same deep blue as the dress but completely covered with swirling silver embroidery. The only space not completely covered is the center of the back. Here the swirls mesh together to form a circle, holding the image of a single flower. As I run my hand over the intricate detail of this, most likely custom-made, cloak I notice that Jane has been completely silent since we first saw the dress. I turn to see that she is standing frozen, with an unreadable look on her face. Her eyes almost appear to be glistening. I reach out to put my hand on her shoulder and give her a questioning look, when she finally turns her bright red eyes to me. She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly.

"Miss Isabella." She begins, and I have to stop myself from writing - to insist she drop the 'Miss'. "I'm sure you don't realize what this dress means." She trailed off, seemingly needing to arrange her thoughts. "For you to be offered this dress shows that you are truly esteemed by the kings. By wearing this, you will be seen as ranking just below the kings in importance, and higher than any guard."

At this point I could hold back no longer. Scratching away in my notebook, I finally got out all my questions. 'What do you mean? How do you know this? Why treat me with such deference? I'm nothing to them! I'm just a human - fully expendable and tasty besides! I thought they only wanted me for information!'

"Miss." She began, before my glare cut her off. "Fine then, Isabella. I do not know why they choose to elevate you with such distinction. I only know that it is their right, and they have the power to make it so. I know the meaning of this dress because I have seen it before. I knew the vampire it was made for. This," she said pointing to the flower, "was her favorite flower. It is a lotus. She believed they represent life - emerging pure and hopeful from darkness and adversity. This dress and cloak belonged to Didyme."

"I have acquired everything you requested, Master Caius, and delivered the items, plus a tray of fruit, bread and cheese, to Miss Isabella's room, although Jane would not allow me to enter."

I tried my best not to laugh at the exasperated vampire in front of me. It appears Jane does not wish to share her new friend. I'm sure Heidi would have preferred to personally show off the spoils of her shopping conquest.

"Oh yes, here are the books you sent for."

Trying not to display my excitement over the small pile of books, I thanked her for her prompt work and dismissed her.

After her departure, I retreated once more to my study and settled into one of the armchairs facing the fireplace. I looked through the materials Heidi had acquired, as I ruminated once more on all the questions I have about the tough little human who is currently worming her way into some - previously barricaded - hearts in the castle. I need to know her story. I need to know who she is, and what events brought her to existing comfortably in the presence of a castle full of vampires. Now, let's see how fast this old vampire can learn a new trick.

"Carlisle will be here by midday tomorrow. One of his sons accompanies him for this visit."

"Do you think it wise Aro, to let the outside world become aware of the interest we have in Isabella? I know we need not fear Carlisle spreading information, but what of the other he brings with him?"

"It will all be well, brother Marcus, you will see. We will have a short chat with the two of them, then a handshake, and I believe we will have enough information to decide if they are safe for Isabella."

Marcus sighed as he stared, unseeing, out the window of the library they were currently occupying.

"You do not agree?"

"I trust your judgement, Aro. I'm sure you will see what we need to know. I was thinking of the girl."

"I heard you provided her a gown for this evening. That was very well done brother. I had not thought of the matter myself. She has certainly become a fantastic diversion for us all."

"It is more than that Aro. I know you see it too. The girl would almost definitely be a gifted immortal."

"No doubt! She can block my trespassing into her mind as a human. She could only become more powerful as a vampire"

"I have a suspicion that shielding might only be the beginning." Marcus replied vaguely, his eyes drifting to a large portrait on the wall.

"What do you mean?" Aro asked, genuinely interested. He was unable to help himself. Finding gifted vampires has been his passion for many millennia.

"I am feeling things Aro," Marcus began slowly, "that I have not felt in more years than I care to count. I am concerned for the girl, which on its own is unusual. However, there is something more." He ran his fingers along the frame of the painting that held his eyes. "It's too slight a sensation to positively determine at the moment, but it almost feels that by merely being in her presence, she is pouring healing water over my very soul. The searing pain of losing my heart is still there, but for the first time in a thousand years, the burden does not seem quite as heavy as it did before. I think she will have an ability similar to yours, my love." He whispered to the woman on the canvas. "I think her gift is healing, happiness" he paused for a moment before adding, "peace."

Supernatural mind working furiously to recall all I'd read this afternoon, I knocked on Isabella's door. Jane opened it and after a quick greeting followed by a gleaming smile, larger than I have ever seen on her face, she flitted off to change into her formal robes. When my eyes find Isabella, my chest constricts tightly. I suck in a deep breath, trying to dispel some of the tension. I had thought her beautiful only just this morning, under harsh florescent lighting and in the same clothes she had worn tracking through the forest to aid me in the cave. But now, freshly scrubbed, in a gown suiting her figure and with her voluminous hair braided into an elegant crown - thus keeping it from obscuring her face and the curve of her neck, she is arrestingly magnificent. The deep blue of the dress makes her creamy skin glow in the candle light. She is wearing no jewelry, nor does she need it. Her cheeks redden slightly, and she begins wringing her hands. Apparantly I've been standing silent too long. I hope I get this right. Raising my hands and moving them in ways previously unfamiliar to me, I make my first attempt.

'You look beautiful.' I told her. I think.

Judging by the gleeful expression that overtook her face, I must have done my part correctly.

'Thank you, your majesty. You look handsome this evening as well.' She returned, tiny hands flying through the motions.

'May I escort you?'

'Of course, I would be most grateful.' She returned cheerfully.

She started to pick up the cloak that matches her dress but I reached it first. I stood in front of her and swirled it around her body so draped it across her shoulders and fastened the silver lotus clasp in front. As the two pieces came together, my fingers brushed a portion of the angry scar tissue on her throat, and I noticed that the clasp would lay across some of it as well.

"Will you be uncomfortable with the cloak resting here?" I asked, temporarily forgetting to remove my fingers from where they had wrapped loosely around the base of her neck, my thumbs having fallen to her collar bones. She did not reply right away. Her pulse drummed against my hands in an ever increasing tempo. I searched her eyes for any sign of fear. It is possible that one as brave as Isabella could still be intimidated by a predator in such close proximity, but I saw none. What is going on in that mind of hers? She blinked deliberately, shook her head and stepped out of my grasp before signing.

'No, do not worry. It does not hurt. Do we have time for me to ask you about a couple of things?'

'Absolutely. You are the guest of honor.'

'Jane mentioned something that made me curious.' She started, and I tracked and translated her movements as quickly as I was able. "She said by your actions, you - the kings - have placed me in a position of high regard. How is this determined, and what have I done to deserve this consideration?'

'Well,' I don't want to tell her there is probably no logical explanation for our collective interest in her. 'I brought you here, and therefore am responsible for your welfare while you remain with us.' I stumbled through the signs, having to spell some words letter by letter. 'By having you reside in my personal wing of the castle I have placed you formally under my protection.' At this, her eyes went wide and her mouth fell open slightly. Hmm, I guess she didn't already know that tidbit. 'Marcus, by providing you with this ensemble,' I indicated her gown, 'which everyone here knows to be especially dear to him, shows his unconditional support of your stay as well. None in the castle will question your right to be here in the face of such blatant favor from not one, but two, of their kings.'

She mulled this over for a moment before nodding, I assume reaching the conclusion that my reasoning is sound.

'But why?'

Because we are drawn to you. I wanted to say, but settled for - 'You saved a Volturi king. Let that be enough for now.'

She took my arm when I offered it this time, and together we made our way toward the throne room antechamber to await her introduction.