Chapter 11
After Bella became a vampire, Carlisle informed the Volturi about her transformation, and they hadn't heard from them since. However, on this particular day, Aro called and informed them that some of their guards were in the area and would be dropping by in a few days for a casual greeting. Everyone in the house was on edge, especially Edward, who seemed to be in a perpetual state of tension. Bella couldn't understand why he was so worried about the meeting, but she could tell that he was very concerned. Despite their best efforts, it was becoming clear that their relationship was not progressing as they had hoped. Their interests had diverged, and they couldn't seem to find common ground. Bella remembered a time when she had gotten excited about the idea of skydiving lessons, but Edward thought it was too risky and instead suggested they go to the opera in Denver. Needless to say, it was not a happy day for either of them.
On the day of the Volturi's arrival, Bella was eager to meet new vampires outside of her family. She was curious to see how other vampires lived, as she had come to realize that the Cullens were not the typical vampire coven. As Carlisle answered the doorbell, Bella stood by, waiting for the guests to enter. Two vampires walked in, one of whom introduced himself as Demetri. While Bella couldn't remember if they had met before, she recognized Felix.
"Hi there, you're the one who called dibs on eating me last time we met," Bella greeted him with a smile, shaking his hand.
Felix chuckled in response, "I'm glad I never got the chance as I would now miss seeing the beauty in front of me."
Edward started to growl, but Bella chose to ignore him and quickly raised her shield over Demetri and Felix, just in case Edward read their minds and caused an incident.
"Nice to see you again, Carlisle," Demetri said, taking a seat on the sofa alongside Felix. "It's been over two centuries, I believe."
Carlisle returned the smile. "Yes, it's good to see both of you again. Please pass my regards on to Aro. I know he's been eager for me to visit," he said, but Bella couldn't shake the feeling that Carlisle's smile was not genuine.
"Other than that unfortunate experience a few years ago with your coven mate Edward, we haven't heard much of you. It seems you have built up quite a coven for yourself, Carlisle," Felix said, appraising all the vampires around him. He stopped when he came to Jasper and nodded at him. "Hello again, Major."
Jasper nodded back to both Felix and Demetri but didn't smile.
After some initial small talk, Felix turned his attention to Bella. "So, Bella, how have you been coping since you became a vampire?" he asked, his red eyes scrutinizing her.
"I'm loving it," Bella replied, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "Being a vampire is the best. I've already gotten over the difficulties of being a newborn and can even go out around people now."
"Impressive," Demetri remarked, appraising Bella with interest. "From your eyes, I can see that you follow the Cullen diet. You haven't felt the need to try human blood?"
"Of course, I've felt the need," Bella admitted truthfully. "But my willpower is stronger than that. I haven't been seriously tempted."
Felix raised an eyebrow. "You are stronger than you look," he said, his tone respectful.
"Yes, we're quite proud of Bella," Carlisle said, his smile widening. "She has taken to being a vampire with quite a show of ease. Her self-control is truly remarkable."
"I have an excellent teacher," Bella said, nodding towards Carlisle. "He's taught me how to control my thirst and live among humans without putting them in danger."
"I'm sure Aro would be pleased to hear that," Demetri said, a hint of amusement in his voice.
"Maybe later you two can join us for our daily sit down where we all hold hands and sing Kumbaya and 'Humans are friends, not food' songs," Bella joked.
Both Felix and Demetri started laughing, liking Bella's quick wit and humor.
Demetri leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Bella with keen interest. "So, Bella, what aspects of vampirism do you enjoy the most?" he asked, his admiration for her growing with each passing moment. He had to admit, he was far more impressed with Bella than with the rest of the Cullens.
Bella didn't hesitate for a moment. "Fighting, without a doubt," she replied confidently, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "Jasper has been an incredible teacher, and I've been training every day. I've loved every minute of it, even when I was getting my ass kicked every day in the beginning." She glanced over at Jasper, beaming with pride.
Felix's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Really?" he said, intrigued. "Would you like to do some sparring with us? I'm the head of the Volturi guard, and I guess Demetri here is alright," he said, playfully nudging his elbow into Demetri's side.
Bella stood up, smiling. "I'd love to. Let's go out to the clearing Jasper and I use," she said, her eyes shining with excitement. She turned to Edward, hoping he would join her. "Would anyone else like to come?" she asked, scanning the room.
Jasper and Emmett immediately jumped at the chance to watch, but the others including Edward declined.
As Bella stepped out into the clearing in the forest with Felix and Demetri, Jasper and Emmett trailed behind them. Bella was already a proficient fight thanks to the training from Jasper, but she was eager to see how the Volturi fought.
Felix was the first to attack, his movements precise and calculated. Bella easily dodged his blows and countered with a swift kick. Demetri followed suit, his movements more fluid and unpredictable. Bella had to rely on her vampire instincts and months of training to keep up with him, but she was holding her own.
Jasper and Emmett watched from the sidelines, impressed with Bella's performance. They had trained her well, but it was clear that the Volturi's style was different from their own.
As the sparring continued, Bella noticed how different their fighting styles were. The Volturi relied heavily on technique and precision, while the Cullens were more adaptable and fluid. Despite the differences, Bella found herself learning new moves and strategies with each exchange.
After several hours of intense sparring, Felix and Demetri called it a day. Bella had thoroughly enjoyed fighting against new opponents and learning some new moves. She thanked them both for the opportunity to train with them, feeling grateful for the experience.
"You did very well, Bella. I'm truly impressed with your skills," Felix complimented with a smile. "If you ever find yourself in Italy, be sure to visit the castle. We can introduce you to the others, and I think you would fit in well."
"I'd love that," Bella replied, her eyes bright with excitement. "You and Demetri are the first vampires I've met since becoming one. It would be great to meet more of our kind." She had had a good time with Felix and Demetri and thought they could be friends.
After Felix and Demetri left, Bella made her way over to Jasper and Emmett, who were waiting for her. They praised her for holding her own against some of the best fighters they had faced.
"You did great, Bella," Jasper said, pride evident in his voice. "I'm impressed with how well you adapted to their style."
Emmett nodded in agreement. "You're a natural, kid. With more training, you could take on anyone."
After a year of being a vampire, Bella had finally shed the title of 'newborn'. She thought back on the past year. After the tumultuous beginning, she had adapted well to her new life and had grown stronger with each passing day. As she looked forward to the future, she felt excited and curious about what lay ahead. She was eager to explore the world and discover more about herself and her abilities. The possibilities seemed endless, and Bella would not wait for all the adventures to come.
