A Year In A New Life

by CooLibrarian

Felix is sent to live with the Cullens for a year and meets a girl who gives him a whole new understanding of human life. While back at home things start to fall apart for the Volturi. Takes place 1 mounth after Breaking Dawn

39. Demetri: Final Fall Out

Demetri was now one of few guards that remained part of the Volturi; others have slowly left, in a few short weeks of their abstained they have lost another. Now, they only had three members in the guard. He went through his letters from Heidi, wondering why he supported her decision but was still angry at Felix.

Dear Demetri,

I don't know how anyone could want to live with these vampires, if they call themselves that. They change so much since the last time I saw them, they drink only animal blood and anyone who is staying as a guest with them must follow their rules and follow. Its nasty stuff, I never felt so useless. The only ones of the second generation I get along with is Agatha, because I knew her before they became animal drinkers. Unlike, Philomela and Hector, she understands the suffering it takes to take down this stuff.

They have other additions too, werewolves! They have three werewolves and a vampire that one of them keeps as a mate! This is a coven that has been immortalized by gods, fostered our power below the caves, and cousin to the most powerful coven on the face of the earth. I refuse to consider the werewolves and the werewolf lover part of their coven. It would be like spray painting the parathion by considering them equal to us, and apart of us. It is disgusting the even thoughts that these women would disgrace us by letting werewolves be a part of them. The Hales are not part of the Greek coven. Anytime I see their picture on the wall, I avoid looking at it. Auntie Lama and Uncle Dragomir are also with them. I am glad Uncle Dragomir isn't here, the Romanian coven accepted werewolves, I have a feeling this horrid condemnation has something to do with him.

Anyway, they have more visitors. One of them is a coven of five nomads; Harof is the leader, along with his mate Mille, who's half his size. The others are Alfred and Sukha, and Fred, who designed their new electronic and watering system. There are also two African animal drinkers, one their friend, Malakia, who came with her newborn Sabah, who was decided by her creator that she will drink animal blood. Since the Harof is making the contract for Fred, and is the leader he and Mille stay in the guest room of the main house, along with Caius and Anthenodora who have Lama and Dragomir's old room

The werewolves said I can be in there room, these creatures want to insult me from across the world by making me live with their foul smell where their nasty habits take place. I don't know their habits or how they live, but it must be horrid. I argued with Anthenodora and Caius, in what could have happened to me. They both said I am immortal it's not like their germs are going to kills me. I am surprised they let this happened, Caius said it's their coven, and they support their adopted moral code and the Greek coven is always pardon.

Anyway, their cottage is strangely nice, it has this mixture got to their place it's a mixture of American forties and Ottoman herm. They left a message explaining I am allowed to use their records and have free use of their supplies, like I'd have any interest. I agree with the nomad brothers, it could be a trick. Fred was upset they left, I asked him why, they would just make a mess of things. Fred said that Alexander had their financial information and Nikki knew how their mechanic equipment worked. I thought he was joking, then I read the note they left him, telling him to the money situation of the Greek coven, and a note from another telling Fred what key was to what, and typed instructions on all the engines along the island. I didn't take the Greeks for being naive, but they really trust werewolves for money and safety. Fred also explained that he is able to commutate with them better due to language issues. I suggested he just learn Greek. I also pointed out my job with the Volturi; I was able to pick up on a great number of languages. Fred accepted my services as translator. He is trying to learn Norwegian for his coven, and would struggle in picking up another language. I said Ancient Greek will be easy pick up here. I should do better than the werewolves.

Fred asked me what gave me that idea that the work of werewolves is inadequate. I explained everyone knows vampires are better than werewolves, and that's just the way things are. He then asked me what makes them lesser, how is that measured. That was when Sukh explained he just passed his newborn mark last May. I have a funny feeling his twenty-first century thinking is going to clash with my five hundreds Europe.

Fred said these people were kind enough to lend us their supplies and money, despite our attitude towards them, I should respect that. I just agreed, I still think it's an insult they put me in werewolf quarters. It's even stranger that the Greeks gave werewolves such nice things; they don't even know what to do with things like fine clothes, or a clean house. They aren't the brightest creatures.

The other vampire, Malakia, this African doctor and her newborn, Sabah is who are staying with us. Malakia explained that being around werewolf scent would make humans less attractive. I still think she is cruel in trying to curb the appetite of a newborn. Sibhah is very quiet, she doesn't talk much or leave Malakia's side. I don't think she knows Greek, or Scandinavian, or Italian, or Latvian, or Chinese, or Norwegian, she does know English, Fred's first language. That's how we were able to get her to speak.

Fred then said he is going to try and get the Hale home updated in technology too, without destroying their style. Doing things such as putting a sprinkler in the garden and getting internet accuse to Skype their long-lost sister, who he had to point out is a vampire. Again, they will be lost in what to do with laptops and mobile phones.

Demetri skipped to the next letter.

Its miserable here, and I mean miserable. The only thing to do besides weaving, feeding, preserving blood, or cleaning is helping Fred. He is such a know it all. He comes to Hecate, informing her of the different plans, and constantly correcting her blue prints. The other day, he surprised us by arranging a Skype session at the main houses with the werewolves. The coven went into joy that they were able to talk to their missing members. It's hard to believe they actually missed them. From what I gather, Hecate adopted Beyza, Dragomir and Lama adopted Alexander, Simantio and Empusa have Nikki, Monroe and Champalos have Aysun. I was disgusted how frantically they all gathered at the labtop when they heard the older vampire speaking. I was glad Caius and Anthenodora weren't there. Now, Fred tries to contact them at least once a day going into an hour conversation, asking about finances, and mechanical equipment. I kept questioning it and questioning it, saying loudly that werewolves aren't smart as vampires and would never figure something like this out.

Every time they skyped, I said some basic facts about werewolves and the boys went on acting like I didn't say anything. That's how stupid they are, they just breathe deeply and keep talking. Then their sister Rosalie called Fred and asked to speak with me. First she explained that she was a vampire, and she was insulted by my behavior. She me to quit referring to them as 'the werewolves', they have names. She thought it would be nice to inform me that Alexander is the son of a banker, he knows what he is talking about. Nicholas is related to her, he knows mechanics. She was very outspoken. I wanted to ask her if she's a vampire, than what right she has in meddling into werewolf affairs. She said that they are her brothers, and she has a right to defend them. I couldn't believe it, if I had a biological brother that was a werewolf, I'd be so ashamed. I told Rosalie this, and she called me a bigot, and its vampires like me that make her ashamed to be a vampire. I hung up, modern women are so annoying these days.

Fred then called Alexander again. He also called the other one…..Nikki and over the phone Nikki talked him through their motor boat. They have sixty-two boats, twenty bought last millennium, five bought during the twentieth century. Not far from the boat house is a surfing hut which they like to spend sunny days.

That next day, I went to the gunaikon to do some much needed laundry; I brought all my modern clothes. I couldn't help but notice how they don't wear such, it seems the sisters like to wear himation, peplos, and chitions, Simanitio wears togas, Agatha wears sotas, Chamalos wears tunics with boots and paints. Matthais dresses like Champalos but has a dalmatic that Hecate embroiders, Champalos does not. Philomela wears long dresses with lace shawls and walks bare foot. From pictures, Dragomir wears woolen clothes, and Sophia dresses in a dress that goes to her knees. I decided to make myself some clothes of my time. It strange, but a lot of my human life is starting to come to my mind, and I want to dress the way I use to dress again.

It was a great break from the Hale cottage, even those they had sewing machines. I remind myself a werewolf had been using it, so it's probably broken. I am surprised that Beyza has such patients in sharing with her werewolf sister. I enlist Agatha for the day, since she is assigned to help the visiting guest.

I went out early to steel some wool from sheep on a nearby island and harvest some flax. I went to the gunaikon with the women. They are such gossipers. Agatha gets me an iron tooth comb for me to detangle the wool and a hammer to beat the flax stems. I put on a fiber belt and attached some spindles to it. I then placed the fibers on the distaff and placed them in whorls. Agatha set up a thread wheel for me and sharpens fresh animal bones. I then borrowed some dyes from them. I was glad to see they kept my old vertical loom, which I used when they lived with us. I forgot how time passing weaving could be. I created at least twenty yards of fabric as I listen to what is going on in every coven form the Irish to the Japanese.

Anthenodora told them about the Renesme trial and that went on for hours. I taught Agatha, and Philomela how to tablet weave, creating colorful belts and bracelets, along with inkle weaving to create hats that we wore up north. When I took the tablet and the inkle looms back to the cottage, Fred asked me if this was my day job. Which was strange, how did he know I was a prostitute during my human life. Even those prostitution took place during the day in Scandinavia, and at night, whatever was convent for us. Sabah and Malakia knew about weaving but weren't use to my looms. I then made myself ankle length dresses with smaller wool dresses to go over them. Agatha then surprised me by bringing me back my old tri loom brooches to wear at the shoulders. I keep my hair down as I was used too, when I first appeared in my old clothes.

As I wore my old clothes, Harof passing me, he pointed out I had no head covering. I responded in saying I was never married. He asked if I was going to give him a speech about honor, which was common among honorable women at my time. I shook my head in pointing out that they never took it seriously, we laughed being from the same culture. He then said that I am very welcomed to his coven. I told him I am of the Volturi. He said I still haven't forgotten my roots, I just recently remembered. I guess I haven't, I like where I am from.

I missed Felix then, since he is from the North as well, I missed his chivalry and honorable approached to things. Heather is a very lucky human girl, I suppose once she is turned I might adventure over to meet her.

The next day, I went to do my laundry and ran into Millie who was carrying her coven's bundle.

"I made fresh for you, we can combine," Millie informed me when she spotted me from the distance.

"I like that," I said as I put my clothes in the tin tub and began washing, she used a washing board. It's obvious she struggled in Greek, so I spoke to her in English as I washed my modern clothes next to her coven's stolen clothes.

"Thank you," I said as I put the pomade laundry detergent in the copper tub. "Is Fred going to give them washing machines?" Even though Millie has this annoying eighteen hundred pioneer talk, I still liked talking to her. She had that strength of a life in a hard human environment.

"He plans to," Millie answered. "I honestly don't know. He doesn't inform Harof too much."

"But, he's the leader. When Fred agreed to travel with him he agreed to be loyal to Harof, and regard him as his mentor, and guide." I questioned, confused. It was very clear Harof was mentoring Fred, but Fred didn't take the advice too seriously. Harof may haven't of been very educated, but new vampire ways well. It would be wise for Fred to listen to him.

"I know, but Fred is of the modern thinking. Harof and I are trying to break him of that, so he can be better part of our coven. Harof loves his gift, and his intelligence. He wants to see that blossom; the life of a lone nomad would be a waste. He's coming along slowly, and he knows not to question Harof in public, if he has any doubts of Harof's decision he no longer says it out loud, but privately. He now understands that as coven leader, Harof has the final word and our respect."

I can see Fred growing in the understanding of vampires from different times. He understood Hecate's need for sewing and weaving fabric, the importance of us women having this time to honor such art. He used a digital camera to take pictures of the laundry room. He was, however, surprised when Hecate and Harof knew how to use them. I told him afterwards, if you want to do convincing quiet acting surprised when they know a thing or two about what you're doing to this house. He needs to accept our couching.

I swear I never heard so much chatter. The women talked about every little thing, sharing updates from the Irish to the Japanese, who's mated with who, who had an addition. Anthendora blended right in, I think she had a little problem because unlike Caius, these women responded with her gossip. She gave them all the information about the Cullens through her friend Esme. She said she doesn't know much about Carlisle, but if they want any ways in pleasing Esme ask her. I couldn't help but observe the interaction between Malakia , who was helping Sabah make clothes for herself.

"I am supposed to invite you over for the Yule Celebration in December," Mille started as she took the clothes out of the copper as Anthenodora came with Caius and we proceeded with putting our clothes in it.

"I thought that was in early January," I responded.

"I don't know the Norse calendar all that well, I have another son in the Olrick-Hory Mountains. We usually celebrate it with them. When they traveled with us he, his daughter, and I would celebrate Christmas, while Harof makes Sukh and Alfred celebrate Yule. Alfred is into it, Sukha, not that much. Kondrat's mate also takes part in the holiday."

"Are speaking of Gisbert's stepfather, Kondrat?" Agatha asked.

"Jane's Gisbert?" I asked as Agatha nodded, my attention became instantly alert in wondering how to contact him. He was the reason we didn't tell Felix about Alec, so he would stay with Heather and not come to the Volturi to help his sister.

"Anyway," Millie answered. "He and his daughter were Christen in their human life, and wouldn't take part in Harof pagan holidays. Then, he fell in love with a woman of the Germanic tribes, so she still takes part and host it for us. She is inviting her Slovakian sisters this year. I am coming back here shortly before then."

"Why?" I asked curiously.

"Hecate invited Mille and Fred for the Hale's Thanksgiving celebration they have in November." Agatha explained. "It's an American celebration, the Hale's are Americans like Fred and Millie, and we immortals like to come together over celebrations that took place in our human life. So Hecate, in keeping the friendship by inviting them to the Hales for American holidays."

I smiled, wondering what in the world the Hale brothers, being werewolves had to be thankful for, and why was Hecate using them to make covens comfortable. I then go to Mille. "My friend Felix is a Dane, even those he was Christian in his human life, his family still celebrated the Norse holidays in his human life. He normally celebrates Yule with me, he has a mate that's going to be a vampire very soon. Once she is changed, I am sure she will adjust to his culture. Can they come too?"

"Of course," Millie answered as she finished hanging her clothes and left. I felt happy, that I am able to preserve old friendships as I make new ones. I am keeping my friendship with Felix by keeping distance, I didn't tell him about Alec so he would stay with Heather. Because I am happy he found his other half.

Demetri knew that was for him.

"That was very nice of them," Agatha added. "We celebrate all kinds of holidays here with Hecate, Lama, and Empusa were Greek pagan, Monroe being Jewish, she raised Hector that way. The Hale brothers are Methodist, and their wives are Muslim. Simantio was Egyptian pagan, and the rest of us our Greek Orthodox, and I am Catholic. Not to mention the Hales like to celebrate American holidays such as Thanksgiving. From what they said on the laptop, their brother Emmett and they are planning to hold an Independence Day. Sophia says Umry is videotaping it for us."

"What are trying to get to Agatha?" I asked annoyed.

"How do you ask a boy out?" Agatha started, I was wondering what that had to do with holidays. I couldn't help but hear Millie snicker behind me.

"Weren't you a nun when you were human?" I asked, trying to avoid this.

"Well, I was a postulate, and I'm not anymore, not since Empusa saved me from being thrown to the lions. Anyway, there is a guest I'm attracted to. I would ask mother, but she would get too excited thinking I wanted to be his mate. I just want to go on a date." Agatha explained. That situation I understood perfectly.

"It's not one of those nomadic brothers?" I asked as she went silent. I could tell Millie was listening intently, knowing sweet Agatha was talking about her sons.

"It is, which one?" I asked excited.

"Alfred, he's so cute, I don't know how to approach him, much less get him alone. Please help me." Agatha begged.

"I'll think about it," I answered as Anthenodora came back with Monroe and a set of suitcases.

"We're you going?" I asked noticing all of her and Caius's laundry was hung to dry.

"Oh, I've been waiting to tell you, Monroe and Champalos is taking us to see their friends in India. The Tej coven." Anthenodora explained.

"That will be nice; I've never been to India." I said happily.

"By we, I meant Caius and I," Anthenodora said sympathetically. "We are planning on leaving you here to help."

"Help?" I questioned.

"Help them," Anthenodora answered. "There are a lot more animal drinkers than we realized. Since you excel with foreign relations, I told them last night you would help. Empusa suggested it after I told them the number of victims you got from America where Cullens come, and Canada were Denali's are from."

"They are from Alaska," I pointed out. "And aren't the werewolves from America?"

"Yes, but…" Anthenodora paused. I wouldn't count the werewolves as the representation from the US either.

"So I'm just supposed to sit here while you're off to India?" I asked.

"I can't explain why I am going to India with Caius, but it will be good for us." Anthenodora explained. "You can stay here and help the Greeks with the foreign affairs."

I am surprised Fred ignores me so much, I want to see what makes him tick. This is the first vampire I can't seduce in a couple seconds. He's seems so scolded he's always working on some room in the main house, working on some electricity in the island, pouring over some physics or engineering book or blue prints, tutoring his brothers, or practicing his gift with Harof.

Fred has it all planned out now, first he's going to focus on getting running water through the main house, starting with the bathing room, which has a gigantic pool in it. He then wants to get electricity to the bedrooms and the Andron and gynikon. Philomela and Agatha asked for a sewing machine to put in that room. He wants to put a radio in the Andron, and get internet access to all the rooms, with lab tops for each individual member.

It seems he wants to put a whole entertainment system in there. Does he not get that these vampires are ancients, does he not understand how much these people treasure their tradition of storytelling and playing instruments. It is their connection to their human families. How dare he try to take that from him? They agreed to the internet access, the ipods, the cell phones, and the lab tops, but there is no way they will remove the instruments and place a large television in the Andron.

Anyway, I am helping Fred by organizing the library, they do keep a pretty up to date collection. Empusa explained that they buy books every week and get rid of the books that are out of date. They decided that was where they were going to keep their labtop. We moved the furniture out of the different bedrooms, starting with Dragomir and Liam's to Monroe and Champalos. So there are no rooms available, making me stuck in the Hale place anyway.

Demetri then read excerpts from the next letter.

I don't know what I'm going to do with all these vampires, the smell of the werewolves doesn't calm us down but drowns out human blood. Now, Fred is thinking about making a mess in there house. I'm surprised how clean they are for werewolves. They already have running water and electricity, Fred is giving them internet access.

The most interesting is Saboh, the newborn. The slightest thing can upset her. It is annoying as hell, but I get it. Plus, she causes Matthias to come and try to control her appetite. She weaves to calm herself, sometimes she plays with Fred's computer to read the news. Malaka is teaching her math, English, Greek, and reading. She also is learning I complained about it once, Fred said something about being more understanding. I do understand, I lived in war areas myself. He just sees me as some dumb bimbo.

She does help Agatha water the Hale garden, I have to admit it, the werewolves garden is beautiful with flowers and fountains making a paradise. They even have a greenhouse which Agatha and I like to chatter while planting. Fred was able to order hundreds and hundreds of solar lights which we are placing through it.

Sabah surprise us the other evening, Fred was going through light bulbs marking which light bulb was for what, Sabah picked it up and it lighted from her fingers. I smiled saying, "Looks like someone has a gift."

Sabah set it down silently, being her modest self.

"I noticed you turn the radio on without touching it," Malakia explained then spoke in Banda.

"Here Binti, touch it again." Sabah listened to Malaka as she always does.

"Is there something wrong with me?" She asked slowly in Ngbandi.

"No, not at all, you are one of the chosen few who gained a sixth sense after their transformation." Malaka kissed Sabhon's head. "Nothing is wrong, you are very blessed as a matter of fact." I watched as this creator comforted her creation, and couldn't help but wish Aro never found out about her. Malaka obviously had a strong attachment to her newborn, and it would break my heart for that to be taken from such a kind vampire.

Sabhon then asked me if I was gifted, and I said yes, I am gifted and explained how people are drawn to me. Sabhon said than it doesn't scare her as much, Malakia thought I had a gift for languages, like her one nomadic friend. I explained that comes with my job, I pick up on lots of different languages, the native African languages are just a couple of them.

I got to know Malakia more as Sabhon was watering plants with Agatha.

"Sabhon likes you," Malakia said. "She's just scared to admit it because all her friends from her human life are now gone. Some have been killed, others went to refugee camps, some got lost in human trafficking. Thank you from spending time with her. It means a lot to have an immortal accept her."

"I have experience in genocides, when the Romans came and attacked us, they practically swiped any village that stood in their way. They ransacked anything of value, for some of us that was nothing." I said remembering sadly. "The so called mighty empire burned killed men, killed anyone weak and helpless, and took us captive yet called us the barbarians. I was only kept alive because of the high demand for my profession. The human world hasn't changed all that much, has it."

"In some ways yes, and in other ways no," Malakia said as she put her arm around me. "That's why you care about my newborn so much, because you understand. Hecate said that Anthenodora would understand if I approached her for advice, I was foolish not to speak with her. Do the memories fade?"

"No," I answered. The screams of the mothers as their children were being taken still rings in my ear and in my mind, I never knew our neighbors, but I remember the cries of their elderly as their home was set to flames. as their house was sit on fire, the cries of the babies being ripped from their mother's arms, the sight of a crippled man being slaughtered is in my eyes. The stanching sweat of the men robbing me of my services still makes me shiver, and the cough of my little brother as we were forced to march the mountains is always a nightmare too me. I thought Birger's death was a blessing, he was too kind to be a gladiator. I still feel angry whenever they talk about the might of Rome because of what they did to me, I didn't tell Malakia these things those. I just remembered as I forced down the animal blood.

"You remind me of my daughter," Malakia said to herself as I went back to my sewing. "Hide her troubles behind her beauty, but would help someone in need by the simplest smile even if it pains you."

"You had a daughter?" I asked, wondering about her human life, what made her want to curb from humans.

"Yes, when I was a human, I had two daughters, three sons, all gone, died of old age, their remains are most likely done by now. While I'm still here. I take care of others in repentance after being forced to abandon them. I'll tell you my story."

I sat listened with the highest respect from Malakia as she sat down, Fred even went silent, putting away his lab top to listen to Malakia. Looks like the nomads have taught him a thing or two of vampire manners. When someone tells their story, we are silent. He also learned how entraining listening and reciting stories could be.

"I was a human in Congo back in the sixteen hundreds. My mother was a widowed midwife in the Yoruba tribe, she taught me about medicine and taking care of the sick with what we found along the savanna.. I was beautiful and talented in the skill of midwifery. This caught the eye of the chief, so he made me one of his wives. I sixteen and he were much older. I didn't care, I didn't love him, but I wasn't unhappy. Even those I was young, and supposed to be doing the lower work, but because of my training, I took care of the babies. I saved a couple of my step-children from many illnesses, and helped the wives and concubines through their pregnancy. I also had five children of my own. Olugbala, my first born son and my pride, Adedwe, she's the one who you remind me of, she followed my footsteps, some of her decdents are doctors for the same village. Modupe and Taiwo, my twin boys, two trouble makers that still make me laugh thinking of them and my youngest daughter was Fayola, who is still my darling.

My husband was a mystic, taught us to be aware of the demons of night, and when the harvest went bad, we would find a villager that was acting strange, and he ordered his death. Now, that I think, they had what humans today called an intellectual disability, one I swear was most likely intellectually challenged since she never acted above the age of seven. Another had some mental illness and spoke of the voices. My husband killed her for calling among them the servants of demons.

My oldest son was ten, my daughter eight, my twins seven and my youngest daughter was four when I went to get water alone one day. Then men from the rival tribe grabbed me and blinded me. I tried to scream but they covered my mouth. They forced me to a port filled with Europeans, this was the first I ever saw one. They were so pale, scary, ugly men, many missing teeth. The forced me to a tiny ship, with talk of the Americas. All I could think of was my children, who was taking care of them and wondering if they were worried for me. I was use to tending to the sick and there were so many sick on the ship, I tended to them without the men's knowledge at night, many died in my arms. One time I was tending to the worst on the other side of the ship when I saw these other demons, the ones like my husband would preach about feeding off of the prisoners, some were sick, others were healthy but didn't surprise the ship holders when they showed up dead. They didn't believe when us when we told them about the demons, and the drinking of our blood. We warn our captures, but they dismissed it. Some begged the demons to take their life. I continued with nursing, and eventually became sick myself." Malakia stopped and huff.

"I became so sick, I could barely walk, my muscles were weak from the crowds. I didn't have the herbs to make the remedies I was use too. The European started having food short. Being as sick and depress as I was, I was choosing to go overboard with others who were sick as me. They grabbed me and chained my stomach to a large chain. They then through us overboard, forcing us to sink. We were panicking, all I could think was that I was never going to see my children again. I saw the bottom of the ship, where the demons stayed during the day. They swam up to us, with their skin glittering in the water, stopping the bolt. They started sucking the blood out of us humans.

Their was a small girl, no more than ten with us, I saw one of them a woman with enchanting beauty and her thin braids out like a web take her. It was as if a squib had attacking taking the child's life in a few seconds. She then came up to me, her face drenched in the girl's blood and started sucking out of me. She drank and drank as I felt harsh pain of hundreds of spears coming into my body. Then a ship came over us, and the woman stopped leaving me in the fires. I think she thought I was dead, I wanted to be at that point as fires started heating my body. I didn't even notice I was sinking because I was burning. When the fire stopped, I was at the bottom of the sea. I broke from the chain with a simple flicker and rose to the surface seeing nothing in sight but watching my skin shimmer. I easily went through the Atlantic, what took the ship a week I made it to the shores of Africa in seconds. I knew what I was, and what my husband would do to me if I went to my children, he wouldn't care how I lived. So I hid in shame, I hid for a month ashamed of what I was, then I saw an elephant, I was so weak and thirsty I attacked it, taking it down in seconds and gaining strength from it.

I watched my children from a distance for the rest of their lives, I never showed myself to them. I felt guilty for not taking care of them upfront, but I always made sure they were protected and their families had what they needed. I was the last of my village to be kidnapped and sold. After my sweet Fayola died of old age, I abandon my beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren to see why I was given this life. My maternal instincts remained stronger than I was human and still strong seventy years later. It still remains strong in me to nurture and protect those in need of my help. I put that into my work as a doctor.

I decided to use my maternal power to take care of other children. I went to Bagdad, and was hosted by the Arab sisters who introduced me to the other animal drinkers. I studied medicine while with them, and later China and I studied herbs. I then went to Europe and studied anatomy paid and repaid by the Greek coven, finally returning to Africa, my homeland. I did adventure to the Americas to update myself on the technology but its always back to Africa, my heart and family. I never stay in a home for very long and picked up on every local language, once they notice I don't age, I leave. But that's what I do, for an eternity, I am a doctor."

"You must have seen a lot of patents," Fred stuttered listing.

"They come and go, because of my advance memory, I am able to name them all, and their illness, along with how I treated them. Only one truly remains on my mind." Malaka sighed looking at the window.

"Sabah?" I asked.

"She was truly sent to me," Malaka said. She then one silent and spoke, "A couple years ago I was passing through a Bassi village in Sierra Leone, and I treated a young boy who broke his leg while climbing a tree. He thought it was curios that I was a woman doctor. I thought it was curse that he was climbing trees when he was supposed to be doing choirs. He said he was in there to prevent it from cutting it down, because he knew monkeys nested there and didn't want to see their home taken. He has given me a lasting impression. His name was Gardiah, I suppose he must be older now, in his late teens, early twenties and who knows what happened to him since the war started. I heard from nomads that some soldiers took the boys in his village. If I had to see a patient for the second time, it would be him. I would just like to see if he's alright. He started coming to see me daily, and telling me how beautiful I was, charming boy even said he wanted to marry me. When he started noticing I was different. The next day, I left to work at a hospital Cote D'Ivoire"

"Malaka!" Sabhoan came racing back in.

"Yes, my dear girl?" Malakia asked turning.

"They are looking for you," She said fearfully. "Fred, your leader is here." We all stood up and went outside, I saw Harof with his large beard going to his knees with Mille beside him, along with Alfred and Sukh, being led by Simantio.

'We got newcomers, thought we should greet our entire coven to them,' Simanto's voice came to our mind. And since I am the Volturi, I am their coven.

"I met them before, they haven't met you, Fred." Harof explained coming to Fred. "I wouldn't mind if ya showed them what you're doing. Maybe, I can negotiate another deal." It was then Agatha came up and put a white gown over her swimsuit with Alfred following behind her.

"Alfred, dry quickly, please," Harof ordered as Alfred obeyed while Agatha straighten her hair and came up to Simanto.

"Is she your daughter?" Harof asked.

"Yes," Simanto answered. "Agatha, we've been looking for you. Its strange you want for a swim by yourself.

"I was with her," Alfred corrected.

"But didn't invite your brothers?" Sukha asked.

"I was spare of the moment," Agatha explained. "He saw me surfing and wanted to know how."

"You are supposed to be helping Fred!" Harof bellowed. "And I thought I told you not to go surfing, those boards were created by werewolves."

"She was safe, so I figured I would," Alfred said fearfully in Latvainan. "Sorry, Harof." As Sukh crossed his arms.

"It seems every time I come around you're not there, that's a shame." Harof spoke. "You are my first creation, when I am not around you are expected to keep an eye on Sukh and Fred."

"Who's here?" I asked changing the subject.

"More like who's coming," Simanto said. "Our allies and fellow animal drinkers they are of the Covens of Asir formally the Asir Sisters but no longer due to their new member. They are highly respected by the nomads of the Middle East. They are not on good terms with them those…they hold grudges."

"Why are you telling me this?" I asked Simanto.

"They don't like the Volturi for killing their mother, she created an immortal child." Simanto explained. "Due to their lifestyle, the nomads of the Middle East tend to think kindly of them. We invited you to have the Volturi in their good graces."

"Why me?" I asked.

"These women have a reputation, they like men, and human men find them hard to resist, they are even drawn to their voices. Before being vegetarian vampires, they took advantage of humans being drawn to their beauty. They would go to roads and seduced men who were making a pilgrimage to Mecca."

"I think I'll get along with them," I said, we had a lot in common.

"Which one of them is coming?" Makalkia asked as she helped Sibhoan straighten her gown.

"Dalal, the one with a healing touch. She's bringing her new mate here so he could learn to follow the rules their coven and prepare for their upcoming marriage." Simantio explained to her as we came to the port.

"How does that work?" Alfred asked.

"Why do you want to know?" Fred asked cursorily.

"Curios?" Alfred answered.

"They must abstained a year from human blood." Simanto answered. "That was the requirement for all of us except for Aysun and Nikki, but Alexander had to wait for Beyza."

"Hector and Philomela had to wait for five years," Agatha put in. "The count didn't start until he was no longer a newborn, then he slipped a couple of times. He kept working because he loved her, Beyza did the same. Champlos didn't have to wait when he met Monroe he had been drinking animal blood for centuries."

"Sounds interesting," Alfred said.

"But not important," Harof went on. "Its not like you to ask such nonsense questions."

"Lets go," Fred suggested.

The entire Greek coven was there, well what was left, Hecate and Matthias stood there with Philomela and Hector beside them, Simanto and Agatha went to join Empusa. Fred stayed Harof and his coven, while Malakia stood with her hands on Sibhon's shoulders. From the port came a beautiful vampire with a round face and bright gold eyes, with her hair wrapped in a pink habjii, along with jeans and a lavender shirt. She had to have the brightest smile I have ever seen. Behind her, carrying the luggage was a vampire I recognize, Yigal, my Israeli friend with benefits. Looks like he's just my friend now, because he accidently bumped into her, the girl turned and kissed him so good that her foot went up and her back leaned back. She then turned, holding his hand she ran up to the Greek coven.

"Dalal," Hecate hugged her. "I am happy to hear the exciting news."

"I know, it was supposed to be a surprised but I was just too excited." She leaped with joy.

Dalal first hugged each member of the Greek coven like old friends as Yigal shook each members hand.

"Who's this?" Dalal asked smiling coming across me.

"I'm Heidi," I shook her hand.

"Oh, the one putting electrify on the coven." Dalal asked. "When A'shia said the news, I couldn't wait to come here. Oh, and Faryat, as always, sent me tons of questions. Not to mention Yigal, wanting to get the year over with so we can wed. Speaking of which, I bought bridal magazines with me." She turned to Empusa who nodded.

"This is the vampire coven that is putting electricity on our coven." Hecate explained going to Fred. "I believe you met Harof."

"Yes, I belive we have," Harof said taking his hat off. "You met my creations, Alfred, Sukh, my mate Millie. Here's are newest addition, Fred, adopted them about two years back."

"Pleasure," Dalal said. "I suppose for my sister, A'ishia, I will make a greeting. I am Dalal, the younger sister representing A'ishia, the leader of the Arab family. This is my mate Yigal, I also have a younger sister, Faryat. We are the coven of Asir, in Saudi Arabia. "

"We are the coven providing the project." Was all Fred could say to the joyful girl.

"It is something we are very interested, perhaps I could evaluate to see if your service is of any use to us?" Dalal suggested.

"We would be glad to show you Fred's work." Harof said speaking for him, Fred remained silent in understanding that he was supposed to let Harof speak for him. It was clear the Harof had Fred's trust and respect.

"We brought supplies to help your project," Yigal informed.

"Swipe some gadgets here or there," Dalal continued. "Anyway, where is Malakia? Malakia, we heard you have a newborn." Dalal said as she picked up a gift.

"Dalal, this is Sibhon." Malakia introduced.

"Very nice to meet you," Dalal said. "My sisters and I plan to give you a gift for your first year mark celebration."

"An immortal only passes their first born mark once," Fred said coming in as he looked at the antique watched. "You have to do something special."

"So where are you from?" Dalal asked me. Yigal turned, he stopped stunned recognizing me.

"Heidi, of the Voluri coven."

"Volturi?" Dalal questioned.

"Yes, our cousins." Hecate reminded. "Heidi is staying with us while our brother Caius, and his mate Anthenodora visit the Indian coven with Monroe and Champaros."

"They will be surprised, I can see why some of your coven is missing." Dalal said nervously. "Yigal, here is the Greek coven, while some of them."

She couldn't possibly include the werewolves as any sort of loss.

"Yes, we are very large." Hecate shook his hand. "Yigal, this is my mate Matthais, he will help you become accustom to animal blood. This is my sister, Empusa, and her mate Simanto, this is my creation, Philomela, and her mate, my sister Monroe's son, Hector."

"You'll like them," Dalal whispered.

"We have a few members missing, my sister Lama, her husband Dragomir and her creation Sophia are abroad meeting a rather young animal drinking covens in the United States. Our adoptive members, Alexander, Beyzia, Nicholas, and Aysun Hale have joined them. My sister Monroe, and her mate Champalos are visiting the Indian Coven."

"Due to renovation, the spare rooms are unabalble, you will be staying in the Hale cottage," Philomela said.

"With me," I added.

"That's fine with us, the Hale sisters are very good friends of ours, despite Aysun's condition." Dalal added passively. This was going to be fun.

Demetri simmered through the next letter.

Yigal is very helpful with Fred, he was able how to get running water up to the bathing room, and got a good deal on blackberries for the coven. Dalal was able to warm up to me, even those she later admitted to not being a Volturi supporter, but informed me most Middle Eastern vampires find that their rules are for protection, they aren't too fond of the werewolf law, due to the past of werewolves and vampires coming together to get through rough times and defeat shape shifters. They do enforced the Volturi law, such as killing creators of immortal children and putting down newborn armies themselves. They are upset that they never come and visit vampires of the Arabic world, they have many ideas of training newborns, and going unrecognized. The coven leaders want their voices to be heard and feel that European coven leaders are upset that the Volturi never seek out their opinions. She also said some vampires of the Middle East don't like the Volturi due to the focus on the needs of European vampires. She is very outspoken.

Yigal helping Fred, making me useless. He set up a model of running water so they don't have to tap into public water lines when they install the washer and dryer. I suppose it's the distraction many animal drinkers have to avoid drinking human blood.

I don't think I'm cut for this life, I try many things, but none seem to work. All I keep thinking is how I am going to totally drain the first human I meet, whether Matthais is around or not. I know Harof's coven feels the same way, I spend more time with them than I do the Greeks. Only Alfred is the one who likes to try the different flavors of animal blood, I sort of agree with Jane, its fine temporally, but I wouldn't live off of it. I enjoy hearing the nomadic stories over the animal drinkers.

Fred finished the bedrooms of the missing couples, and is now onto Agatha's room, along with Empusa and Simantio. So, they have went to the missing couples rooms. At least that's what Alfred said, he visits them regularly. Its so strange, first I thought Alfred followed the mind of his creator, but with Agatha I see him as an individual. Agatha, however comes and tries to straighten the place up with Alfred. She keeps saying that the werewolves won't be happy when we come home. The thing is with werewolves no matter how much of a mess it becomes they won't care because werewolves don't worry about hygiene they are naturally dirty creatures. Empusa argues with this, but the her saying do care about keeping their home clean is so farfetched I refuse to believe it. I highly doubt a couple of broken windows, missing tiles, stains and broken furniture would be much of a problem. Agatha and Fred still try to make sure it remains in the same shape they left it.

Agatha reads way too much. Her noise is always in a book, I like her those, she has good fashion style and is very respectful. She always has her hair in a bun with her skirt on the sand, and reading. She is sent twice a day to check on the house, it seems every day noon and midnight Agatha comes with goods for us from Hecate and Empusa. She then takes notes on what we need and Simanto goes out to get it for us. Since we aren't regular animal drinkers, Mathais had forbidden us to go to the island. Only Dalal and Malakia can come with him, the rest of us don't have enough control.

Dalal and I went to wash the Hale's laundry, the sheets, table cloths and currents. Fred is planning on testing the new washer and drawer on those items. So we went through the house, grabbing the American quilts, Turkish blankets, sheets, pillows, table cloths, curtains, dolly, and took them up to the main house to do the laundry. He also wants to give them their own washer and dryer, but first he's going to test the one in the Greek coven. I just went to help Agatha and Empusa mend modern clothes for charity.

While doing this, Agatha blurted out, "Heidi, I have a question?"
"What?" I asked.

"How to you get a boy to kiss you?" She asked nervously.

"What?" I asked, Empusa dropped her needle at that one. I couldn't blame her, she has been with Agatha for fifteen hundred years and never asked her such a question.

"Well, there is this vampire I like, but he's seem so connected with his coven, I want to get to know him alone."

"I am sure Harof will let you court," Empusa suggested, such an ancient Empusa is, hard to believe at one point in time she once had my job, even harder to believe that we shared similar professions in our human lives.

I answer Agatha: "Tonight, Fred plans to update the pluming of the Hale cottage, they are going to help. Normally, he takes this time to tutor Alfred and his brother, Sukh. Come down, to visit, I will think of something that will take more than one vampire. I will send both of you out to do it." Now, some fun will be happening.

Later that night, Fred was trying to get internet access to the Hale cottage, him and Yigal made some sort of satellite thing that was supposed to capture some other satellite that will allow them to have not only internet but allow them to view television they gave him since the werewolf still pay attention to their beloved teams of their human lives such as the New York Yankees. They already have something to radio, but I can see why they would want to expanded it. The Greek coven loves learning, even the werewolves find use for it as hard it must be for them. They sent Sukhon the roof holding the contraction, they were going to put Alfred up their too but Dalal and I arranged for him to stay in case Agatha comes.

Malkia and Sibhan were weaving nets for some of Malkia's patients when they sail back to mainland Africa. Dalal was writing to her coven leader, A'ishah on the progress of Yigal, and was also sending a thank you card to the Hales in America. Yigal was staring at a labtop while Fred was playing with some sort of roster on Beyza's desk. She must be a heavy reader, among all the Turkish Romance novels, they had a lot of hunting and fishing stores by American writers. They have many Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, John Steinbeck, Henry Miller, T.S. Elliot, Sinclare Leiws, William Fulkner, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sherri Wood Anderson. How could a Turkish vampire be into all these writers. Dalal points out they belong to the Hale Brothers, who grew up reading those books, but I don't believe her, werewolves wouldn't be interested in such books. They wouldn't know what to do with them.

Dalal then asked me what makes her think that Beyza was reading those books when Nesimi, Nevai Fuzuli, Baki, Şeyh Gâlib than Steinback and Hemingway. Those were what was popular when the werewolves were human. If they knew how to read before werewolves, why wouldn't they know afterwards. She has somewhat of a point.

I still don't believe her, how could a werewolf have the capability in reading an entire book. I was going through their records, Tsifteteli, the Andrew Sisters, Mustafa Kandıralı, and Frank Sinatra. I was wondering if there is any way we can put these on ipods for them when a knock came on the door exactly at midnight.

"Alfred, you get it," I said quickly, knowing who it was.

"You're the one not doing anything," Fred pointed out, I forgot about Alfred being his brother.

"Fine, I'll get it." I said nervously, I went to answer the door, Agatha was standing there nervously. I could tell by her golden eyes she was upset I answered the door and not Alfred.

"Agatha come in," I said loudly, opening the door for her. "What do you have to bring to us this time?"

"I got some of the books you asked for," Agatha said coming in with a bag full of books and a large jar of blood. "I got some blood too, mixed it myself."

"Thank you," Fred responded as Alfred went to get the books from her.

"You can put the jar in the refrigerator." Agatha said happily, with her golden eyes following Alfred.

"Yes, it seems Beyza left a good supply since she knew we would be coming here." Malakia said taking it for her.

"Must be in need of it, a vampire living among all those werewolves." Alfred said.

"Actually, Beyza has the hardest time controlling herself around humans. She considerate a great struggle." Dalal explained as Fred sorted through the books.

"You brought an interesting collection," Fred said. "Some of these I didn't ask for."

"I figured most of you could use it for enjoyment." Agatha said. She is trying to get a guy through books, she really did need some practice.

"What kind of mixture did you bring?" Alfred asked.

"Oh, cougar mixed in with a bit of deer, and a drop of elephant for a taste of the exotic." Agatha explained.

"Interesting combination." Malkia added taking it gratefully and placing it in the refrigerator.

"Well, best be going, Alfred, I think you're going to like the one with the green cover, with the dragon sitting on the pile of gold." Agatha said and left. I was completely disappointed; Alfred moved the books out of Fred's way. He picked up the Greek translation of 'The Hobbit' when a piece of paper fell out.

"What is this," Alfred asked picking the paper up.

"A letter," Dalal said, she read it, unfolded it, and folded up quickly. "Oh, I bet she was in the middle of reading this and used the letter from Sophia as a book mark."

"Oh, best return it, don't want to make her think we are reading her personal mail." Alfred said and left quickly. Instantly Dalal, Malkia and I went to the door followed by Sibohan.

"She's waiting on the beach for him," I said quickly as we zoomed in watching them. That was when a light went off, Yigal and Fred came to join us. We heard a thump on the roof, Sukh sat down watching the scene on the beach.

"You forgot this," Alfred said running up to her. We should have given him a better line.

"Oh, that book's for you, thought you enjoy it." Agatha explained. "That's one is specially for you."

"A letter was in it," Alfred explained. As Agatha opened it to see the letter from her cousin in the United States.

"Oh, this is from Sophia, telling me about Albary, a shape-shifter that has huge crush on her. She is in the US, have you been there?" Agatha asked looking at him.

"Yes, many times, we were on our way there when we discovered Fred in Vancouver." Alfred explained. "Harof, Sukh and I went there first when they discovered it, another time to help the Volturi with the newborn armies."

"I never saw a newborn army, they do sound very dishonorable." Agatha explained.

"They are, they went after an animal drinking coven at one time, that's low." Alfred defended.

"Extremely," Agatha responded, there was then a long silence.

"Is Sophia with the werewolves?" Alfred asked.

"Yes," Agatha answered. "They are very nice to have in the coven, they found out they had a vampire sister they are visiting."

"So them leaving has nothing to do with us?" Alfred asked.

"Why would they leave because of you?" Agatha asked.

Alfred went silent, there was another awkward pause before Alfred spoke. "So, who's Albury?"

"He's this shapeshifter that has some kind of crush on Sophia. She likes him too, apparently she described him as being handsome, but I think there are some much cuter. She telling me how he has a brother that she wants to set me up with…." Agatha paused, waiting for a response. "But shapeshifters aren't my type."

"Oh, well, enjoy." Alfred began walking away.

"Wait, what about your book." Agatha called him back.

"Oh, I'm not that into reading," Alfred said and turned back.

"You're not, how could you not be?" Agatha asked.

"I can't read," Alfred whispered.

"You never learned?" Agatha asked as her eyes went astonished.

"Well, I'm not completely illiterate," Alfred explained. "My brother Kondrat taught our creator, along with Sukh and I but with traveling it was hard to catch on. I sort of took Millie's view on education, whatever knowledge necessary, and I never found reading necessary, so over time I kind of forgotten."

"Empusa and Simanto are so going to disapprove of him," Dalal sighed disappointed. "They strive on knowing as much as possible."

"Shut up," Fred ordered. "Why didn't I see this before?"

"Perhaps you should show more loyalty to your coven," I suggested.

"Shush," the group ordered as we observed from the beach.

"I get all my adventures from reading, adventures you wouldn't even dream of as a nomad," Agatha said pulling him down to sit next to her. "Like this one here, the Hobbit, is part of a series called Lord of the Rings, it's very good. Let me read you the first chapter."

We actually sat the entire way through as they read the first chapter, but Alfred was defiantly more engaged in Agatha than the story.

"What's going to happened to Bilbo?" Alfred asked when she finished.

"You'll have to relearn how to read to find that out." Agatha answered closing the book. She was about to stand up, the two then she looked toward them, the two young vampires frozen in their mid-teens then shared a very awkward first kiss.

Demetri went through the pages, most was about the development of Agatha and Alfred's relationship, the annoyance she had with Fred, helping Sibohan, her friendship with Dalal and getting to know the nomadic coven well, and reminiscing with Harof on her human life. He then came to one interesting, the letter knowing she had crossed over with Felix. Leaving him stuck in the lonely bachelor land.

It was early in the summer hours, after doing my skinny dipping ritual I went to put on a plan dress and made my way up the path to find Fred working on the newly build cooler in the store house.

"Need some help?" I asked.

"Hold this up," Fred said as I went to I hold a cord up for him while he checked the temperatures.

"It's not working," Fred panicked. "The cut's wrong, its going to get too cold."

"It's supposed to be cold?" I asked confused.

"Not to the point of freezing." Fred answered annoyed turning the switch off. "If I lose their blood supply, they may not want me to continue the job." I could tell Fred was panicking, so I went to the well and got a bucket of cold water and poured it in a cooler. I then put the amphorias, Oinochoes, in the Psykter in the cold water and started building a rock wall around the cooler.

"What are you doing?" Fred asked.

"Putting them in cold water to keep them from spoiling," I answered.

"It's ninety degrees out, that's not going to do anything." Fred smirked.

"That's what we did before refrigerators." I answered frustrated.

"How would you-"

"I was born, grew up and became immortal before electricity and running water was even a thought," I interrupted. "And if I can make it to being twenty three in sixth century Scandinavia, then I know what I am talking about." I then covered my well with a large rock. "And don't give me that germ crap, we didn't know about that damn about spoiling back then. If it was eatable, you ate it end of story, there wasn't this what's better for you, as long as it filled you parents give it to their children. We may not have had the healthiest standards of living, but humans didn't become extinct because of our 'unsanitary habits'. I certainly don't need to be told by some twenty-first century techno brat how to survive without electricity." I spat out at him.

"I didn't…" Fred started.

"Don't tell me you didn't we aren't stupid, don't you think I know what you mean when your brothers ask questions, or get annoyed when the Sisters ask about sewing machines, I don't know why Harof puts up with you. Hell, I don't know why anyone puts up with you." I yelled.

"I'm sorry, I didn't know,"

"No, duh, your new, modern humans are not taught to respect elders these days, I watch T.V. you make fun of them and portray them as not understanding. I hate to break it but majority of humans have been around longer than you and the number of vampires older than you is a hell of a lot larger. If you want to make it, respect those who had."

"I was told to respect them." Fred said.

"It's a thing of survival." I informed, calming down. "Now, you know this engineering stuff, and I know just about everything else, so why don't we cooperate."

"Fine with me." I then got the ladder, and we installed an implant for a light balb, I 'accidently' fell off the ladder and he caught me, landing into his arms.

It was then in an instant when my leges where on one arm and the other was at my back, I stared at his eyes as the scent of candle flickered. I had my arm around his shoulder and pressed the other hand to his cheek breathing his musk scent. Fred kissed me, he kissed me with such passion, I had to kiss back. He dropped me as his hands came nestled into my hair, and I had my arms wrapped around my shoulder. When then were really going at it, he was kissing me on my neck and I pulled him down to the ground in a spot no one can see. He then started kissing my breast as my lips locked to his neck. I swear, he is the best lover I have ever had, I swear despite how much sex I had before him, with him I was making love. We made love later that night at the cottage in the bed of the Hale brothers married to the vampire, and the next morning after we destroyed that bed, we made love in the bed belonging to both werewolves. I swear, this ability to repulse must have a backfire, because Fred truly is the best lover I ever had.

Fred continued on working of course, but we would sneak away and make love again, and again. God bless this red head that created him, because she surely released a gift to the vampire world. I never felt such connection with anyone, I wonder where he's been in the past thousand years, I wonder why did I have so many, he makes them all disappear. He kisses me, and I feel like the girl of a sonnet. I feel completed when I am with Fred, and longing when I am without him. We do more than just make love, we talk, I never thought I could have such a conversion with another male vampire ( no offence). He tells me about the future, his mind is like a library so full of fascinating information, he also asked me questions too, and I of course responded telling him about my life. He admitted to not taking an interest to the ancient Baltic before he met me. This happens has I use his chest as a pillow and we make love again. He sometimes takes me to the islands, were we spend seconds exploring the street and holding hands with one another. My fingers fit into his so perfectly.

One evening, afterwards he said he loved me. I responded that I love him too. I never been so connected with anyone more than thee, he is mine and I am his. When I am with him, I feel so pure greater than any queen that has lived and died. We are one, never to separate. This spell casted over me dear brother, won't be undone. I was lying next to him, with his head on my stomach, and holding his hand when he said it "I love you." It is those three words that had summed up my future. I love Fred, wherever he goes, I will be. I never felt like this towards another, in the few short weeks I knew him, he had manage to drown out all the others. Just simply kissing him frees every part of my body, the way his arms are around me makes me complete. I just want to lie against his chest forever. It was as if everything else didn't matter, if I lost him…I don't even want to think about that. He reflects me. I love Fred, more than ever.

So burned my black book, a thousand handsome vampires will never measure to him. I can't wait for you to meet him.

Demetri read the one he got last week, as he went to the outskirts of the city wall, sneaking away from Aro and Marcus.

This coven is always packed full with visitors. Well, to start off, more arrived. I didn't know much about this coven, except Hector's best friend, Gisbert is part of it and it included the missing brother of Harof's coven. Fred said they'll like me. Anyway, on our way up, and I notice Hecate from the distance making an alliance with the Delni covne. Dalal and Malakia were questioning them like crazy interested in another animal drinking coven they never met.

"You have caused a lot of trouble." Mille explained.

"What do you mean?" I asked. She pointed to the courtyard, where I notice eight other vampires. One I recognize as the Delni coven. Kate and Garrett stood off to the side with a crate of animal blood while Tanya made alliances with Dalal and Malkia.

I only recognized one from the other coven, it was Ilona who stood next to a tall, black hair vampire that seemed to fear everyone. She remained disgustingly perfect with her blonde hair in a braid. She was guarding over a brown hair boy that looked to be sixteen. Next to them was another vampire who was the male version of her, I recognize him as Kondrat from the discriotion he was with his tall muscular mate. I am glad to say my arch mimeses had a rather ugly mate stuck to her the whole time.

"What's going on?" Fred asked.

"We're leaving," Sukah explained.

"Your help is much needed," the boy vampire went on. "I'm going to get Jane."

"You must be Gisbert?" I asked with the sudden realization. He nodded.

"What is going on here?" Kondrat asked as he saw Harof and Empusa facing each other angrily.

"I'm in love, Kondrat," Alfred explained. "With Agatha, I'm not going to leave her to stand against their brother coven."

"It's obvious, this argument can't be resolved," Hecate said. "But you two are going to have to come to some meeting point."

"I created Alfred, he's my first, I saved him from the Black Death, and he rather stay here than travel with me?" Harof barked. "Giving up his responsibilities of being my first creation."

"I created Agatha, she is my first and only creation. I saved her from being eaten by lions, which was her sentence, why would she disloyal me." Empusa asked. "Your ways, your diet is not Agatha's ways, for them to be together, Alfred must stay with us and learn to live the life of an animal drinker."

"How about you let them chose," Kondat suggested. "Harof, look at Alfred's face, its hurting him to do this, but its obvious he loves her. If he didn't care, then why is this so hard for him to do."

"Very wise, father," Ilona responded, so the man must be her father.

"What's going on?" Fred asked confused.

"Fred, we need witnesses," Tanya explained. "Your gift will come to handy in this situation."
"Yes, first time your power is going to be put to use," Harof said.

"I will let you leave for a few days, but I won't let you use anyone in my coven to stand against our brothers. Alfred, if you stand against the Volturi, you may not be with Agatha." Empusa said firmly.

"We understand if you choose not to go," Kondrat's mate responded. "This is to find my son's mate, it be wrong to separate them."

"Why can't they just go off on their own, they don't have to follow earthier of you if they don't want to?" Garret suggested. We all looked at him confused, if he was in Europe, he would know that's not a solution.

"What's going on?" Fred asked as I stayed close by him.

"I am going to ask Jane to leave the Volturi." The sixteen year old said as my heart sank, knowing who he was. It was Gisbert, Jane's knight in shining armor.

"We need witnesses," Ilona said. "That is why we call on our brother coven."

"When are we leaving?" Fred asked, knowing that meant his part.

"Tonight," Harof answered. "As soon as Alfred comes to his senses."
Alfred clutched to Agatha's hand. "I'm not going," He said simply.

"But we're leaving," Harof said.
"We need as many witnesses as possible." Gisbert begged.

"Your brother needs you," Harof barked.

"I've made my decision, I'm sorry Harof." Alfred spoke not even looking at his former coven leader.
"You little traitor," Sukh yelled.

"I'll take his place," I blurted suddenly. Everyone looked towards me shocked.

"You're standing against your own coven?" Empusa asked.

"Yes," I answered. "If you let Alfred go and be with the Greeks, I will stand against the Volturi, and travel with you."

"But…" Hecate started.

"This is my decision." I said firmly. "I am with Fred, so I will be loyal to his coven."

"Then we accept you," Beatrix nodded as her sisters gave her still started stared at me.

"This is our departure, I guess I have a daughter now." Harof said as he greeted Hecate good bye, then I left with my new coven."

"Alfred," Kondrat stopped. "I am not holding this against you, I'll talk to him."
"Thank you, brother," Alfred said as Sukh shot Alfred a nasty look and left.

This afternoon, Demetri got a text from her, asking him to meet her at this time. Aro was infuriated when he got Heidi's registration letter. Demetri wasn't sure what she wanted, but he was going to make sure it was provided.

"Demetri," He heard a whisper. In a few short seconds he felt Heidi's arms around him. He looked over and saw Tanya coming with her, making sure that she comes back.

"Yes," Demetri looked over and saw Heidi with Tanya. Demetri couldn't help but noticed Tanya, she was beautiful with her blonde hair up wearing tight jeans and a grass stain shirt from hiding in the bushes. She looked at Demetri with such fear, she didn't know whether to jump in or remain safe, and face the danger of being alone.

"Do you have it?" Heidi asked.

"Yes, she actually took the news well." Demetri explained as he handed her a letter Anthenodora.

My dearest Heidi,

It pleases me very much that you have found a mate. Time away with him so that you may be alone is a very wise idea. I understand that feeling, you're future with him is that matters to you. I prayed that you would find Fred one day, so your decision to leave the Volturi brings me great joy. I hope you are happy in your immortal life. Please never lose your since of wonder, be as curiosa as a child. Never take advantage of his presence, and when you go ot the ocean or look upon the mountain feel humble by the sight. Love him without fear.

We are in India, Caius had seemed to like Sukhmani, despite him being a vegetarian. Living with this coven has made him changed his mind. He doesn't want me to go near Nivriti's mate, because the fact he can changed into a tiger. He's learning to tolerate him those. He came to accept the ideals of animal drinkers, in displaying no violence and taken in the unwanted ones (werewolves). We came across one the other day, they seemed very decent. So please don't look back, because living is a chance worth taking.

Let the door of the Volturi clothes and your life with Fred open. I think time away from Aro has done Caius good, Moroe and I decided not to tell him the reason for this trip is to get him ready for some big changes in the Vampire world. The other night I felt comfortable enough discussing leaving the Volturi, at first he was against it, but by the end he said he'll think about it. Kapiri got the nerves to ask him why does he hold all werewolves responsible for what one did. That was when Caius went silent. He wanted to kill her, but I stood up and said no. Caius, you need to change. Things are changing, the only way to survive change is to give into it. Change truly comes along no matter how hard you avoid it.

He said he will consider it.
I will get to tell him about your departure, but for now, keep close with Fred. Caius will give in, its going to be a long process those. He already said that some werewolves do deserve to live. He told Sukhmani he is a good leader, I thought he never say that. But he gave someone else a complement. Please find the same peace with your mate as I do mine.

Please keep in touch with me, and be happy with your life,

Anthenodora.

"Thank you Demetri," Heidi hugged him as Tanya gazed at him coldly.

"When is the coven coming in?" Demerit asked.

"Alistair will lead us to the throne room." Heidi explained.

"And we will all be behind him," Tanya said solemnly coming up from behind Heidi.

"What brings you here?" Demetri asked Tanya surprised, Heidi said she was coming alone.

"Wanted to make sure things went right," Tanya answered. It was clear she still didn't trust Heidi.

"Good, I will make sure Aro is free at that time. If Jane publicly leaves with him, he can't kill Gisbert." Demetri promised.

"You will do this?" Tanya asked. "We can trust you."

"Demetri can be trusted," Heidi said straightly.

"Have I ever given a reason for you not too?" Demetri asked Tanya, she went silent.

"Thank you," Heidi hugged Demetri.

"Congratulations on your mate." Demetri hugged Heidi. "I can't wait to meet him."

~X~

"Jane, get in uniform," Demetri ordered as he looked at his watch.

"Why?" Jane asked sitting in her dark room, alone, not doing much of anything which was her normal habits since Alec left.

"A trail is coming, Aro wants us down there pronto," Demetri explained.

"Who cares," Jane said in a low whisper.

"Jane," Demetri said in an overpowering voice. "There is a large coven coming, you are to get in your uniform and act as the head of the Volturi guard which you held with prize!"

"I could give a crap about it now," Jane rolled her eyes as she went to the hamper to pull out her uniform. She didn't care about her position anymore, it didn't matter, what nothing matters when one is hated by all. The memory of torturing her brother's mate still haunted her, she now knew why Dragomir gave up serving the Romanians after he pulverized Monroe, she knew the pain it felt being the betrayer. She wanted more than anything to get out of this life but what coven would take her in. Now, she wished she would of burned at the stake is she known being saved would lead to this life.

Jane went down the halls, where she met Chelsea, who returned from France to her father last week, but Afton, for some reason stayed with them. She was acting rather strange, which wasn't normal for her but this time it was odd. She barely spoke to anyone, and kept a close eye on Jane, Demetri, and Sanarago, while distancing herself from Aro. Jane, however, has felt no effect of her power since Alec left. She didn't see Aro as the heroic leader ever since he tricked her, as a matter of fact Jane grew a secret loathing of Aro.

When the four entered, they were surprised by the number of vampires. The leaders included Marcus, Aro, and Sulipica who was temporally taking Caius's place, since that was the condition she agreed to come back with Aro.

She recognized the Denali from the side, well only two of them along with Garrett, the loud mouth nomad from Rostinese trial. On the other side was the cove that came to visit the Greeks. She recognized Harof, and his mate Mille. She also saw Sukh, the bigot that tried to attack the werewolves, it seemed his companion, Alfred, had disappeared and he stood alone. She recognized Fred, who was supposed to be in Greece, along with…Heidi, she was with them. She acted like she was part of their coven and not of the Volturi.

Then in the center, was a coven she came to memorize, she saw Ilona, who was just as beautiful as the last time he saw her on the train. Next to her was a tall dark hared vampire that was holding onto her arm so tight, her skin was cracking, he had to be Alistair. Beside them was another couple, who Jane never met but became fascinated with, it was Beatrix, who stood like a warrior with her large muscular body, and wild golden hair. Next to her, was Kondrat, who stood sophisticated in a suit next to his wife. And beside them, was the very other of her life, someone who she longed for, but couldn't have, one who she didn't deserved after all the damaged she caused others, it was her Gisbert.

"Now, Beatrix, what business do you have with her." Aro asked, as the guard took their place, Demetri stood close to Marcus and Aro.

"Who's the leader," Aro whispered.

"Heidi views Harof as the leader," Marcus started, trying not to laugh.
"Traitor," Aro hissed, as Sulipica looked towards him.

"What about the center coven?" She asked, recognizing Gisbert. "Which is the leader of that one? Perhaps it be rise for diplomacy."

"There are two of them," Marcus whispered. "The one other couple views the male as the coven leader. The boy sees the women as the leader."

"Ilona," Aro smiled. "She could save our reputation."

"Aro, the boy is Gisbert, perhaps we could make a trade." Sulipica suggested as her eyes went to Aro.

"Beatrix is the main threat." Aro sighed. "From experience she's easy to deal with, perhaps we should kill her before her mate. She is defiantly stronger."

"Aro, his brothers and her sisters are right here, that won't be wise." Sulipica informed. "You see Jane's power, killing Gisbert won't be safe for you either. Let's not give reason for them to justify your death."

"Aye, Gisbert, how nice it is to see you again," Aro ignore Sulipica and went do greet their visitors.

"The boy has come with me," Beatrix stepped out in front of him.

"Beatrix, what a pleasure it is to see you again," Aro smiled.

"On this matter, I do agree," Beatrix said. "I came to discuss important issues of our coven."

"Do you mind?" Aro asked lending his hand to her. Beatrix proudly put her hand in his palm.

"I see, you desire someone from my coven," Aro said nervously. "Jane, why don't you show her the power you have." Aro asked as everyone watched her, Kondrat and Ilona glared her down instantly as Kate and Tanya prepared themselves to rescue Beatrix. Jane remained still.

"Jane," Aro started signaling her to use her gift on Beatrix. "Jane." Aro said again. Jane was silent, she didn't know what to do. She tortured Beatrix before, in the case of the immortal child, but this was different. She gave her the one he loved. How could she hurt her? She felt everyone watch her, waiting for Beatrix to fall screaming at any moment. "Jane," Aro said again. Kondrat was there, he would attack if Jane hurt her. She didn't want to do this to Gisbert, the woman who brought him into this world, he couldn't repay her.

"It seems that she has stunned." Ilona said.

"I won't," Jane started. "I can't," Gisbert smiled, from across the room, their eyes were having a conversion, he knew she wasn't going to hurt Beatrix. He would be disappointed if she did, but he would love her anyway. They were going to disappoint each other, but in the end they would love each other anyway. They were ment for one another. "I'm sorry, Aro, I'm not going to hurt her, how could I?"

"Jane, I would like to make an formal invitation to my coven." Beatrix said as Chelsea got up and went behind Beatrix. Jane felt drawn to Beatrix, slowly Jane started seeing Beatrix as the leader.

"I accept," Jane answered. "I would like to make my regressions from the Volturi."

"You can't, you can't just leave me." Aro yelled . "I created you, how dare you disloyal the one who gave you immortality!"

"Are you in regards to speak of the loyalty a creation should have to their creator Aro?" Tanya asked.

"Notice, two members of ours are missing," Kate went on. "One of them has concerns with his creation in Washington."

"Aro, what are they talking about?" Sulipica asked, Aro went instantly silent.

It was then Heidi came and stood in front. "I would like to make an official resign from the Volturi."

"Traitors, traitors all of you, you can't just leave." Aro shouted at Jane and Heidi.

"Aro, it is her choice." Sulipica reminded. "There are others."

"You stay out of this," Aro shouted.

"Let us have a vote," Marcus suggested.

"We don't vote on the guards decisions to leave, it is by their will. Isn't that what we fought for, so that immortals no longer have to live under a coven in fear of losing their creations. We came here out of forced and before the battle against the Romanians you said we fight for our creations to be free to leave us and join a coven out of their will." Sulipica reminded.

"Gisbert, would you come with me to pack.?" Jane asked.

"Of course," Gisbert said giving Aro a smirk.

"Heidi, are their things you would like to take with you?" Marcus asked.

"Would you get that smile off your face, Marcus!" Aro shouted. "Demetir, Chelsea, Sandargo, come with me," Aro barked. The remaining guard still loyal to the Volturi followed along with Marcus and Sulipica.

"Yes, master," Chelsea said as they got into the office.

"What happened out there?" Aro shouted at Chelsea. "I sent you out to gain three guards, instead I lose two. I want you to go out there, get Fred, get back Heidi, get back Jane, get me Kate and I want that Ilona in our guard."

"I understand Fred, you wanted Kate before, why do you want Ilona?" Chelsea asked.

"What need do we have for a girl that is liked by all?" Sulipica questioned. "Perhaps Gisbert would be a better investment, he can make our guest relax and make enemies lazy."

"I don't want that Gisbet, he has caused enough damage, and he questions too much." Aro said. "His sister however can save us. She has the gift of congeniality; everyone likes her, if we have any chance of our power surviving. She can retain our reputation and prevent people from questioning us."

"What you're asking for is impossible, Ilona's relation to her creator is stronger than normal, and the bond he has with her is one of the most sacred. They are impossible to depart." Chelsea stressed.

"And we were founded on the prinpale of keeping covens and human families safe." Sulipica said surprised. "I am shocked with you Aro. If we aren't going to govern the prinpals we found ourselves on then what is the point of existing."

"I want Ilona's coven dead." Aro spat at Demetri and Sanago.

"Then they'll have to deal with Harof," Marcus pointed out. "I am sure in the execution of Gisbert, Jane won't protect you from Harof. From the looks it seems to be an easy fight."

"I'm surprised Marcus hasn't handled that." Aro muttered.

"Why would I kill Harof, he's not the one who killed my mate?" Marcus pointed out, it seemed he was enjoying this scene.

"What did Tanya mean when he said you're the last to speak about a bound a creator has to his creation?" Chelsea asked after Marcus spoke.

"Shut up and follow your orders. Demetri, I want Gisbert dead." Aro ordered.

"What would be the point of that?" Sulipica asked. "It would only get Jane fired up."

"Guards, follow my orders." Aro insisted.

"What about a vote?" Marcus responded. "I vote against it."

"As do I," Sulipica added. "Aro you are outnumbered."

"These guards do what I tell them," Aro said as Chelsea, Sandago and Demetir looked at each other. "Go out and do orders."

"Fine, we will make sure this coven is out of the city." Demetri said as the two left with him.

"I'll hurry along the coven, get them out." Chelsea said. "Take the witnesses away." Santiago and nodded towards each other.

Demetri went to the palace, Marcus was leaving. "Do what you must."

"Heidi," Sanagro whispered, she slipped away from her coven to join her brothers one last time.

"Aro, wants the untalented members in this room killed," Demetri whispered. "We need to get away for all of them to get out safely."

"The tunnels under the city will be best, how are we to get them out." Heidi said knowing what they meant. "We can't let anything happened to Fred."

"I will be able to get them out faster than their tracker, one at a time." Demetri said. "First, the main one, your new one, and Tanya's coven. They will all have to leave separately."

"I'll stay here and keep them calm." Heidi said. "This will be the last time I'm working with you." Heidi hugged her brothers one last time before returning to Fred.

"What is happening?" Harof asked as Heidi approached her coven.

"Fred, we are going to need your shield." Heidi whispered.

"Do what you been practicing," Harof ordered as they went to the Denali, Heidi knew they didn't trust her, but she went to them anyway. "Keep your noises plugged."

They all stared at her as Heidi gathered them in, instantly Fred put up a repulsive illusion, if Aro has anything up his sleeve, none of his goons would make it past the stench.

Santaigo and Demetri went to Jane's old department. Her new coven was helping her pack, just as Aro said, only they are allowed. "You have to hurry out," Cheslea warned, as they all turned.

"What?" Jane asked.

"Please, tell me Aro is going to peacefully let this coven go?"Sulipica asked as she came with some suitcases.

"He asked us to do stuff," Santaigo explained.

"Knew this was a bad idea," Alistair said panicking. "Ilona, we have to get out of here."

"Are you a tracker, are you not?" Demetri asked as Alistair nodded.

"What all does Aro want to do?" Sulipica asked coming beside Gisbert.

"Your covens needs to get out of here, separately." Demetri advised. "This coven can go first, when I lead the others out, you will find them and reunite them."

"We shouldn't just be leaving them behind," Kondrat said.

"It is the best," Sulipica said. "Jane, you know the ways. Give me your address, and I will send your valuables to you."

"Don't think…"Alistiar started.

"We have a PO Box in Berlin and Warsaw, here they are." Ilona said as Beatrix wrote them down quickly. In an instant, Jane closed her last suitcase and led her new coven away.

"Get Heidi to lead her coven, you can convince Tanya." Chelsea said grabbing my hand. "I'll keep Aro distracted."

"Are you kidding me?" Demetri started as they came into the hall.

"Trust us, she will follow you." Santiago said.

"I will keep Aro," Cheslea volunteered as Sulipica came out with Jane and her coven.

"Yes, we must keep him in the office for an hour." Sulipica explained with bewildered eyes.

Demetri walked back feeling this horrible stench as they came back to the throne room. Demetri rocked three times, the stench disappeared. Heidi went to her brothers.

"You know the underground well, take your coven and go." Demetri said.

"But?" Heidi looked towards the Denali who stood strongly on the other side.

"I'll take care of them," Demetri promised. "You have a good life." Demetri kissed Heidi on the cheek. They hugged each other one last time. Heidi turned, "Harof, follow me please." She said one last time, leading innocents to safety instead of danger.

"What about us?" Tanya demanded.

"You're coming with me," Demetri informed as he felt a shock causing him to hit the ground hard.

"Lower it, Kate," Tanya hissed angrily, she calmed and went to Demetri. "What are your motives?"

"How do we know we can trust you?" Garrett demanded.

"Do you have any other option?" Demetri asked. Tanya glanced towards Kate and Garrett.

"He's right, we have no choice. Demetir, I put my coven in your hands." Tanya said.

"Come with me," Demetri said as he went pasted them and open a trapped door. He took them through a different hallway, and then opened a painting which went to a spiral staircase to the library. He went to the back of the library and flipped a case open going to the treasure room. They went through the treasures holding ages and ages of what was considered lost. He found a book case opened it that lead to another stair case that went straight down to a gray tunnel that was a puddle.

"Where are we?" Tanya demanded.

"I think we are below the sewer system." Kate said as she held tight to Garrett, who was unsure if this was a trap. Demetri just walked in ignoring them, Tanya stood beside him. He then went to another stair case that went straight up with light in it. They came up into the stage of an empty theater.

"Where is this?" Garrett asked.

"The Theater of Silence in Lajatico," Tanya answered as her eyes widen.

"The others should be meeting soon." Demetri said as he turned to go back.

"Come with us," Tanya said suddenly causing a surprise in her coven.

"My place is here," Demetri said leaving. Garrett and Kate nodded and started going through the theater. Demetri turned, Tanya stayed. She followed Demetri back, stopped him forced him to turn around and looked at her. He kissed her, causing him to pause for a moment. He then kissed her back.

"Your coven needs you, and my coven needs me." Demetri reminded, taking that as a thank you. Tanya nodded and left Demetri there. He felt this heat, running back. He knew Heidi was gone, and shortly the tracker in Jane's coven would reunite them. He went to take the coldest shower he ever had.

The next day, Aro called Demetri in, he could tell Aro was furious out him and Santiago.

"Why did you let them go?" Aro demanded. The two remaining guards were silent.

"They just left," Santiago said nervously.

"Get them back," Aro demanded. "Get them back, get them back. I went them all back, I want you to find Renata and drag her back here. I want you to track Alec and force him here no matter how blind or deaf he will make you. I want you to hunt down Heidi, and show her what happens to those who stand against their coven. I want you to find Jane, and do whatever it takes, even if its in pieces bring them all back." Aro screeched causing Demetri to take a couple steps back. "Santiago, you will go with him and kill any threats he has in following my orders!"

"Yes master," Demetri answered.

"We'll get them back," Santiago said, the two left without saying a word.

"What's going on?" Santiago asked frustrated. "I am not getting Jane, she's fine on her own, and I'm not getting Heidi."

"Nether am I," Demetri said.

"But he said don't come back without them." Santiago said scared.

"And what is Aro going to do if you don't return, track you down?" Chelsea pointed out. Demtri and Santiago smiled at her, then left Voterra on a mission they won't return. The two walked out of Italy, hiding from the humans and went through the mountains passing into France. They came to an abandon castle into Auvergne, that had several vampires surrounding it. Demetri knew it was time, first it was Felix, Corin, Renata, Alec, Heidi, Jane…and now him. He felt as if the outside world was calling him, telling him it was his time to fly.

"I'll speak to them," Santiago volunteered. "You go and do what you want."

"See you brother," Demetri said unsure of what to do next.

"See you." Santiago said as he approached the coven. Demetri roamed on, he was going to go to Alaska eventually, but first he needed to make up with a longtime friend that was right.