20. VOLTURI
The Italian vampires returned to Volterra along with all the pivotal fighters in the war. All the rest returned to their homes to spread the good news of the Romanian downfall. The group convened for a meeting in the turret.
"Friends!" Aro commanded their attention with a great smile. "My brothers and I are now the new rulers of the vampire world. As rulers, we will need our own protectors, our own guards. You have all proven worthy soldiers and we would like to extend an invitation to all of you to stay and serve us and join our family."
Chelsea worked her magic and influenced everyone so that they would have a desire to serve the new leaders. Everyone seemed delighted that the invitation had been offered to them and they were excited about their positions in the new rule. So when Charles spoke up, most were surprised.
"I'm sorry, but Makenna and I will have to decline," Charles said. Chelsea was surprised most of all and tried to focus on them even harder. It was useless though because as powerful as her talent was, it was not strong enough to break the bond between mates.
Aro looked disappointed. "What a shame. You have such a wonderful gift, Charles. Are you sure I can't persuade you to stay?"
Charles smiled thankfully, "I'm afraid not. Makenna and I would like to live by ourselves and get away from politics and war."
A slight streak of pain crossed Marcus' face but it was so minute that no one noticed.
Aro smiled back. "Then you have our blessing. Go find your happily ever after!" With that, Charles and Makenna left the castle, hand in hand.
Santiago was about to leave as well when Aro stopped him. "Where do you think you're going?" Aro asked him.
Santiago looked back, a bit surprised. "I thought the invitation was only extended to those with special talents."
Aro smiled. "You have a special talent, Santiago. And our family just wouldn't be complete without you."
Santiago smiled and went to sit by Eleazar. Caius mentioned to the group that he would like to begin the reconstruction of their castle immediately. Aro laughed at his ambition. The coven was complete; they had their leaders, their wives, and their guards. But Aro was concerned because they lacked an official name. "What shall we call ourselves? The Italian Coven, perhaps?"
Sulpicia, who stood at his side, spoke up. "No, we should be more original than that. There are several covens in Italy. Hmmm…." she thought aloud. "Volterra, Volterro…" she played with different sounds and then gasped. "Oh! I know! Volturi!"
Aro smiled and tried it out "Volturi, hmm? What do you all think?" Everyone seemed to nod in agreement. Aro grinned. "Alright then. Volturi, it is."
