Chapter 15
A/N: Hello everyone. Thank you so much for reading and giving this story a chance. So...Get ready for some serious history! Have fun.
Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or any of it's characters, that's all Stephenie Myer's department!
"The truth." Dumbledore sighed. "It is a beautiful and terrible thing, and should therefore be treated with great caution."
― J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
ENZUK POV
I secured the necessary supplies onto Ti'ku, eagerly anticipating the ride ahead. Ti'ku had been discontent when I departed for Earth, but since then I'd made amends with frequent feedings and treats.
Ti'ku, a Chullin, was a warrior's mount—robust and swift. I was curious about how he would react to Isabella. She might mistake Ti'ku for an ordinary wolf, a creature common on Earth. Despite their resemblance, Chullins were distinct from Earth's wolves, possessing wings and a far greater size. Japher was outfitting his own Chullin for the journey, too.
I tensed as a hand clasped my shoulder and I spun around to face the touch. It was my father, wearing an expression I couldn't quite read. "Father?" I asked, eyebrows knit in confusion.
His smile was unexpected. "Enzuk. I wanted to see how your preparations were coming along. Need any help?"
His offer was met with a slow, dubious shake of my head. "No, I'm managing," I said, feeling an impulse to brush away his hand, which I did.
"Oh. Then I suppose I'll return to my preparations," he stated.
"Preparations? You and mother are leaving the Realm?" I asked, giving a plant root to Ti'ku.
"No, I'll be accompanying you," he said, smile unwavering.
I spun to face him again, incredulity sharp in my voice. "What?"
"I'm joining you on your journey," he affirmed.
"Why?"
He paused before replying, "To spend time with my sons. I rarely see you, and travel for me is typically with your mother. I think it's time to venture out with my boys."
Surprised, Japher chimed in with a smirk, "You're coming, father?"
Carlisle's nod confirmed his intent, yet I felt a wariness toward his sudden eagerness to accompany us.
"Fantastic! I am happy you will accompany us father." While Japher was happy, I remained skeptical of his desire to join us.
My father had become distant, especially after I began my training for Aro's army. He was once a revered warrior and captain of Aro's forces, yet he chose to step away from the Realm, withdrawing from Aro's missions.
His reasons remained undisclosed, though whispers of treason swirled. I found it strange that Aro held no grudge against me for my father's actions, instead he took me under his guidance. Almost like a second father. Since then, conversations between my father and me were terse. Perhaps he resented me—envious of my ascension and loyalty to the Realm where he had not shown the same.
After finishing his preparation, Carlisle mounted his Chullin, a black-and-red beast named Joron, who towered over Ti'ku in size. Despite Joron's advanced age, his strength was undeniable. I was always puzzled by the bond between such a formidable creature and my father, who, though once a renowned warrior, had become somewhat of an outcast. While he still conversed with Aro, those encounters were fleeting, leaving me to ponder if he ever yearned for the days when he was not just a warrior, but a captain, revered and integral to the Realm.
"Do you truly have Mother's blessing for this journey?" My question laced with a thread of accusation.
He met my gaze, a flicker of amusement dancing in his eyes. "You mother is well aware. It is not in my nature to vanish like a thief in the night, especially from my mate," he replied with a cocky tilt of his lips. "Tell me, would you leave without telling your mate?"
An uncomfortable heat rose in my cheeks as I glared at him. "Tanya and I share no bond akin to mates."
His eyebrow quirked up, and his voice lowered into a whisper, acting as if sharing a secret just between us, "I wasn't referring to Tanya." He straightened, steering Joron with a gentle nudge as I stood there, my pulse thundering, his words echoing like a spell in my suddenly constricted chest.
I drew in a breath, ready to voice my confusion, when Emmico materialized before us as if summoned.
"What's the commotion?" Emmico demanded, brows knotted with concern.
"We're embarking on a journey to Arcturus Mountain," Japher declared, his eyes dancing with the thrill of adventure.
A shadow fell across Emmico's face. "A journey without extending me an invitation?" His voice held a tinge of wounded surprise.
"Don't sulk, son. You know you're always welcome," my father chimed in, his tone laced with mischief. "Though we did ponder whether Rosalina's embrace might prove too enticing for you to leave."
Emmico's arms crossed over his chest, a defensive barrier. "Rosalina may be my mate, but I am still my own man."
A knowing smile played upon my father's lips. "Of course, of course. If you say so. But, you best you ready your Chullin if you wish to join us. Time isn't a luxury we can afford if we're to outpace the sun's wrath."
A hesitant stammer escaped Emmico. "I should... inform Rosalina. Not that she holds my reins, but... it's only proper she knows where I am."
"Make haste, then," my father urged with an air of finality. An unbidden heat crept into my cheeks. Why did my father have to assert himself like he was the leader of our troupe, not just another traveler? His eyes caught mine, and in them, I read his recognition of my annoyance. Swallowing my pride, I averted my gaze and hoisted myself onto Ti'ku's back with more force than necessary.
I rifled through my pack, fingers brushing against the cool surface of the special glass bottles Melxa entrusted to me, ensuring they were nestled safely within the folds of my belongings. Before stepping out into the unknown, I had a final word with Melxa about Isabella's choice to stand by Alica as a companion. But…I also sought something more from him, a pledge of protection — to watch over her in my absence.
His promise was swift but also sealed with his own request. He implored me to seek out the elusive Rubix flowers. "Bring some back for me," he had said. "They are crucial for my experiments," he stated after I questioned why.
Perched atop Ti'ku, a restless wait began as Emmico readied his Chullin. The notion of stealing a few fleeting moments with Isabella clawed at my insides—a hunger to be near her gnawed relentlessly. Japher, Emmico, even my own father, they could openly relish the embrace of their beloveds; but I—I was condemned to a shadowy existence of stolen glances and veiled passions. Concealing my yearnings was a tiresome charade, a vexing dance of frustration where every step was a feigned leap away from her.
Which reminded me…
This nagging thought haunted the shadowed corners of my mind—what cryptic message lay behind my father's words when he muttered that Tanya was not the mate he was talking about? Was he even aware that his whispered words had not fallen on deaf ears? He had spoken with such a hushed tone, a soft undercurrent of breath barely audible, yet brimming with an intention that seemed to suggest a hidden truth waiting to be unearthed.
Two days into our journey, I had scarcely exchanged words with my father. I deliberately kept my distance, sidestepping his company as though it were the plague. Our group shared tasks—such as hunting, gathering water and firewood, and finding shelter—and while everyone else rotated partners, I carefully avoided any collaboration with my father. I always aligned myself with Emmico or Japher, preempting any opportunity for him to propose we work together. He appeared to register my evasion with a silent, resigned disappointment, and though his gaze weighed on me, the unresolved tension between us prevented me from seeking his company. We simply did not mesh well.
Stirring from a restful nap, I stretched languidly and rose to a seated position. An enveloping hush had settled over the camp, leaving me with a subtle unease.
"Emmico and Japher have pressed ahead to scout the terrain and gather more firewood," came my father's gravelly voice, cleaving the stillness. I turned to find his rough-hewn silhouette crouched by the fire, methodically feeding it with practiced motions. Next to him, Joron lay sprawled out, basking in a rare moment of calm, his chest rising and falling with a contented rhythm.
Ti'ku, vigilant even in his mundane task, plucked absently at the grass beneath his feet, his eyes darting to the shadowed treeline.
A weighted silence hung between us until my father, still without looking back, slung a leather pack over his shoulder and ruffled Joron's fur, a tender gesture dancing with shadows in the firelight. "I'll return soon," he told me, the detachment in his voice incongruent with the softness of his actions.
"Where are you off to?"
His posture tensed, a flicker of surprise crossing his weathered features as if it were unusual for me to question his comings and goings. "Hunting," he said curtly, eyes now locked on mine. "Keep the fire alive," he commanded before pivoting away.
I found my feet almost of their own accord. "I'm refreshed. I'll do the hunting," I offered.
He halted mid-stride, the lines of his back telegraphing a silent debate. "I'm going hunting," he reiterated with a firmness that echoed in the waning light. "Come if you want, or stay here. It's your choice." Without another word, he strode off.
I glanced at the fire and then at my father's back. Joron and Ti'ku both looked at me, curious about my next actions. Sighing, I grabbed my pack, "keep watch Ti'ku" I said as I headed after my father.
In haste, I sprinted to catch up with him, as he walked with the air of someone who did not expect to be followed. Carefully, I kept myself a step behind, deliberately not walking beside him. Despite joining him on the hunting trip, I felt no urge to bond. He too appeared indifferent to this as well.
A smirk played across my lips; trailing behind my father stirred memories of childhood hunts in the woods with him. Those days had long since passed. I was no longer the eager boy who waited for the privilege of the first bite from a fresh kill, nor was I the dependent child who needed his guidance. Now, I was a trained warrior, my skills having greatly surpassed those of our last hunt together.
We halted at the sight of an ideal hunting ground. Both my father's and my gaze turned sharp and predatory as we surveyed the land stretching out before us, populated with grazing Bauras. Instinctively, we both crouched simultaneously, our eyes meeting with unspoken understanding. The challenge was clear between us without a word being uttered. Accepting it, he flashed a knowing grin, and with a dismissive scoff from me, he arched an amused eyebrow in response.
I shook my head, dismissing the silent exchange as I prepared for the pursuit. My father suddenly bolted forward, catching me off-guard. I had anticipated a careful, measured approach, but he dove into the hunt with unhesitant vigor. With another scoff, I surged ahead, thinking, 'You may be fast for your age, old man, but I won't be outdone.'
Running alongside my father, I was convinced he was about to make his kill. Yet, unexpectedly, he swerved sharply. As I watched his sudden detour, I found myself face-to-face with the piercing horns of a Baura. Cursing, I stumbled back as it charged. With a swift strike, I drove my tail through it, only to be immediately targeted by another alpha from the pack. I began to retreat, overwhelmed by attacks from every direction.
In a moment of frustration, I leapt upwards, taking flight above the pack to carve out some breathing room. Where in the world was my father? Below me, the ground started to crumble. I struggled to maintain balance as I scanned the chaos around me. A deep rumbling erupted from beneath, indicating some immense presence tearing into the earth.
Overcome by panic, the Baura's dispersed in a frantic rush as the terrain upheaved, causing dips and hollows at random. Just when it seemed most would escape into the woods, they began tumbling into traps hidden in the ground. Hovering over one of the pits, I spotted my father down below. He had been attacking from underground? A smirk crossed his face as he repositioned himself beneath another Baura plunging through yet another pitfall. I squinted in realization—what a dirty trick. Agitating subterranean Laveens to disrupt the solid earth, the unsuspecting Baura's had collapsed through the seemingly stable surface, exposed and defenseless, ripe for the kill.
Chasing after the Bauras that had evaded the pitfalls, I took down three in my pursuit. When my father resurfaced, a furious Laveen trailed him, splitting the earth with its fury and bellowing in rage. My eyes widened in alarm, but the smirk on my father's visage reassured me; despite appearances, he was not fleeing for his life.
As the immense creature gaped its maw, my father fearlessly leaped into its jaws. I stepped forward, anxious about his perilous maneuver. The Laveen's body split from within as my father burst forth, delivering his final strike by driving his tail through its skull. I couldn't help but scoff at his bravado. Suddenly, another massive Laveen burst forth, rending the earth behind me. I stumbled back and rolled to the side to avoid its pounding assaults. When it lunged at me yet again, I counterattacked with a forceful strike of my tail. What I had not anticipated was another Laveen erupting from the ground beneath me.
Rage surged through every fiber of my being as I swiftly rose to my feet, my hands instinctively reaching out to halt the creature's relentless jaws from clamping down on me. The sheer fury within me was palpable as I fought back, refusing to let it overpower me. The beast was forcefully yanked back, its agonized squeals piercing the air as my father ruthlessly flung it to the ground, his claws sinking deep into its flesh, tearing through it with a venomous vengeance.
But there was no time to revel in the satisfaction of the kill. With an unyielding passion burning in his eyes, my father launched himself at the other creature, his teeth sinking into its vulnerable neck, mercilessly shredding the delicate skin. The intensity of his attack was…unexpected.
I quickly joined in the attack.
In that moment, the air crackled with an electric energy, fueled by our shared ferocity and unrelenting drive. It was a display of raw passion, a symphony of violence orchestrated with an unapologetic fervor that left no room for hesitation or doubt.
As the chaos unfolded the taste of blood, and the overwhelming surge of adrenaline fueled the air. In that fleeting moment, nothing else mattered except the primal dance of survival and the unquenchable thirst for victory.
We were warriors, driven by an insatiable hunger for triumph, and nothing could stand in our way.
When the battle was over, we stood in the silence, our hearts pounding with adrenaline, prepared for any sudden attack.
We remained on high alert, our survival instincts honed by the chase. We were a tightly wound coil, primed to spring in defense, each of us a guardian to the other. My father, obviously still a seasoned warrior, surveyed the scarred landscape. His movements were deliberate, a slow dance with caution, as he lowered his battle-weary body and pressed an ear to the cool, hard earth. Time seemed to stretch, the suspense a tangible shroud upon our shoulders. At last, he raised his head, his eyes locking with mine in a silent exchange of relief and weariness.
"They're gone," his voice, rough like gravel, barely louder than a whisper, yet it carried the weight of our collective fatigue. "They have moved on for now."
I met his gaze and slowly relaxed my muscles, abandoning the warrior's pose I had adopted only moments before. A warm, hearty chuckle escaped my father's lips as he casually wiped away the crimson stain of our adversary's blood from his grizzled chin.
His eyes, those old mirrors of wisdom, drifted to the trio of lifeless beasts at my feet. An eyebrow arched in mild surprise, he said, "Three, huh? That's quite an accomplishment, son."
I felt a surge of competitive spirit. "You cheated. If you hadn't turned the earth upside down with your wild antics, I would've had twice as many," I shot back frustrated.
His laughter rumbled through the clearing, the sound echoing off the trees. "Son, the key is to hunt with your wits, not just your spear," he counseled, his rough palm giving a congratulatory slap on my back.
I sighed but could not suppress a smirk. "Wits? Is that what we're calling it now? Unleashing the Laveens' fury hardly seems clever. It just made the job tougher than needed. We could have just corralled the Bauras like usual."
"Oh, but where's the thrill in that?" He tossed back his head, the mirth in his eyes igniting a similar spark within me. "Didn't you have fun?"
His teasing drew a reluctant grin from me. I had to admit, even to myself, the rush of adrenaline had been...enjoyable. "I suppose I did, a little," I admitted, trying to play it cool.
My father shook his head, his smile broadening. "Well at least there's some of me still in you." He jerked his head toward the quarry. "Now, let's get these beasts back to camp. Think you can carry more than three? Or should I take the heavy ones?"
His voice was light but carried a clear challenge. I shot him a glare filled with playful defiance and strode past him to hoist the largest of the creatures onto my shoulders. "Watch and learn, old man," I retorted, the familiar banter fueling my steps as I followed him into the growing dusk.
"We'll shoulder what we can and leave the remainder for the shadows that hanker after our leavings. The frenzy of a Laveen's hunt is a call for the scavengers," my father said.
I nodded in agreement.
Silently traversing the forest floor together, his eyes occasionally flitting toward me, I couldn't help but notice the enigmatic smile tugging at my father's grizzled features. This time I walked beside him instead of behind him.
Amidst the silence that felt as dense as the foliage around us, he broke the stillness with a voice etched with unexpected warmth, "You stood your ground with the heart of a warrior today. You've come into your own since last we hunted together."
A swell of unexpected pride bubbled within me at his recognition. "Thank you, Father. Your strength was unmatched as well…" I managed, my voice trailing off in the heavy air. His eyes met mine with a subtle glint of acknowledgment as he nodded.
I had to admit, seeing him in battle had flipped a switch in my perception. When the hunt began, I had braced myself to witness a more tactical, perhaps even hesitant, combat style from him—a chess player amongst brawlers. Yet, there he stood, a mirror of ferocity, his resolve mirroring mine in ways I hadn't dared to presume.
My mother's words echoed through my mind.
"You harbor his essence in the core of your being—you are his reflection, far more than you dare to realize."
"Tell me about this human," my father demanded as we walked side by side. At his words, my pace faltered.
"Which human?"
His penetrating gaze met mine. "Are you really going to play dumb?"
Feeling my pulse quicken, I opened my mouth to speak, then hesitated. We stopped walking, and he turned to face me, his expression stern. "Don't think I haven't been watching you, especially since the banquet," he said. "You caused quite a stir with that human. The rumors may suggest you were just defending Melxa's invention, but I'm not convinced."
"I'm sorry you feel that way, but there's nothing more to it," I insisted, trying to be firm.
He shook his head, unswayed. "You've been part of Aro's forces for years, dedicating yourself to the eradication of humans. It's well known that you despise both humans and Melxa's work more than anyone else. So, why the sudden change of heart over this particular human? You've never intervened on behalf of Melxa's other human subjects."
I stood my ground. "I am still the same fighter that Aro molded. And the human from the banquet—there's nothing more for me to discuss."
"So you say. I believe her name is Isabella."
I recoiled as he uttered her name so carelessly. "Don't... don't use her name," I said in a low tone.
"And if I do? Are you going to challenge me? Fight me?"
With a mix of anger and resignation, I turned away and resumed walking.
"She's in danger in Novis," he announced from behind me.
My jaw tensed. "What makes you think that concerns me?" I retorted, without slowing my pace or looking back. But when he fell silent, I stopped and turned to face him, trying to decipher his expression. Was it disappointment, anger, or sorrow? "Why do you say she's in danger?"
"Novis isn't safe for relationships between Omna and humans. You, of all people, should be aware of this; preventing such 'treasonous' acts is part of your duty."
"I've never admitted to any relationship with a human."
"Enzuk…" He sighed, narrowing the gap between us. "I was once a warrior of the Realm. I understand the burden you bear."
"No. You deserted the Realm," I accused.
"I didn't desert; I left by choice, for my own reasons."
"You neglected your duty. It's only by Aro's grace that I wasn't ostracized because of your actions. I was lucky."
He scoffed. "Lucky? He gladly took you under his wing, keen to pull you away from me."
His words made me scowl. "Pull me away? That implies I had no say. I chose to serve the Realm, to enforce its laws."
"So did I, once. But now you find yourself violating those same laws by loving a human. At the banquet, you defended her because you care, realizing the prejudice the Omna can have against humans. As a member of Aro's forces, you've been blind to the truth. But now, your eyes are open; now you see the injustice of the Realm—a truth I came to understand long ago."
I shook my head in denial. "Isabella is… she's not like other humans. Humans are inherently cruel, destructive, and disruptive to peace. Yet, she's an exception."
"It's all propaganda. Violence is violence—whether it's Omna on human or human on Omna. We're both capable of cruelty. I left the Realm because I could no longer condone its actions." His words fueled my aggravation.
Through clenched teeth, I demanded, "Why? What actions?"
"It's unimportant," he brushed off.
"It matters to me. I want to know."
He paused for a moment, contemplating his response. "I left because the Realm abandoned its principles of justice and peace. The new regime that came to power changed everything."
"Aro's regime?"
"Yes. The way he ascended... the bloodshed he caused. He assumed his father's throne, but it was founded on deceit and treachery."
"What are you implying?" I pressed.
My father dropped his kills on the ground with a thud and paused to take a deep breath. "You want the truth?"
"I asked for it… so, obviously."
"I'm not sure… Knowing the truth may sour your view of Aro when you realize he's not who you believe him to be."
I smirked. "I've heard that you and Aro shared a close relationship once. That you were once inseparable."
"Yes, we were," he admitted. "But Aro has always liked to test boundaries, to flirt with danger. And one day, he went too far. Despite my warnings, by the time he realized it, it was too late to reverse the consequences."
Beside him, I laid down my own kills. "What do you mean he went too far?"
"You must remember that before Aro assumed the throne, it was his father who reigned over Novis. His father respected and preserved the peace between humans and Omna. At that time, it wasn't unusual for Omna and humans to form intimate relationships."
"I'm familiar with our history with humans."
He nodded. "Aro, however, had his own ideas about humans. He became infatuated with one in particular—not just any human, but one he should not and could not have. We were both present at King Newton's coronation along with his intended, Victoria. That's when Aro first saw the human he desired for himself. I cautioned him against it, telling him he was playing with fire."
I laughed incredulously. "Are you seriously suggesting that Aro fell in love with a human?" I scoffed. "It's hard to believe you'd try to turn me against Aro with such an absurd fib. I had expected a more plausible falsehood from you."
His gaze hardened. "It's no lie."
"Aro despises humans," I countered. "And if he truly loved this woman, where is she now? Why is there such animosity between our realms if he harbors feelings for a human?"
"Victoria was executed," he revealed. "Our realms remain estranged because Aro's efforts to take Victoria for himself failed."
I scoffed again. "He tried to steal a human queen?"
"He didn't succeed in stealing her, but he did attempt it."
"Why would he do such a thing?"
"He believed she belonged with him. Plus, he disapproved of King Newton's treatment of Victoria. It's well-known that she was deeply unhappy; King Newton's only desire in marrying her was to secure an heir. He was significantly older, and his cruelty towards her was no secret. Yet, even with this knowledge, Aro's attempt to take her was out of line. They developed a deep connection, meeting secretly in various places, many of which were on Earth."
"Earth?"
"Yes. As the Prince of Novis, Aro would frequently accompany his father on diplomatic visits to Earth, discussing shared resources and trade with King Newton."
"Aro became involved with a married woman?"
My father shook his head. "I can't be certain about their private matters, but I had warned him to end his relationship with her. I told him that human traditions would not permit their affair. But Aro was fixated; in his eyes, she belonged to him. He believed he was destined to rescue her from the king and make her his own. They only stopped seeing each other when Aro's father dispatched him on a mission to scout other planets for resources. I suspect his father was aware of their affair and hoped the long journey would drive them apart."
"And did it?" I inquired.
"Not in the least. During Aro's absence, the queen gave birth to a child. Upon his return, Aro claimed the mission was fruitless, finding no planets comparable to Earth's bounty. He deemed it a wasted trip, but I doubted his honesty. So, one night, while he was on Earth, I rummaged through his belongings and discovered thorough maps of various parts of the universe, pinpointing the resources of different planets. One planet, named Endis, he had researched extensively. He described it as habitable, resource-rich, and stunningly beautiful."
"Why then did he withhold that vital information? Wasn't it his mission to locate such a planet?" I asked.
"That puzzled me too, until I realized why he kept it a secret. He wanted Endis to remain hidden so that he and Victoria could flee there together. It was his escape plan."
I struggled to believe my father would concoct such an elaborate tale. He went on. "Initially, I considered revealing everything to his father, thinking he might dissuade Aro from his plans. Aro wasn't listening to me anymore. But I kept silent. In retrospect, things might have unfolded differently if I had spoken up. But, Aro was my friend; I couldn't betray his trust, and a part of me hoped my suspicions were wrong. Soon after, it became known that King Newton was aware of their affair. He sentenced Victoria to death and demanded Aro's life too, if peace with the Omna was to be maintained."
"So… the queen was executed, but Aro survived?"
"Aro's father begged for clemency, offering wealth and a reduced claim on Earth's resources as atonement. He requested Aro issue a formal apology, which Aro flatly refused, disparaging the human king. As the execution date loomed, Aro grew increasingly agitated. I urged him to reconcile, hoping for the human king's lenience, but to no avail."
"What happened next?"
"Aro managed to send a message to the imprisoned Victoria, presumably detailing their rendezvous point on Earth to elude their doomed fates. I believe Aro's anxiety led him to overlook the secrecy of his communication to Victoria, which I suspect was intercepted by one of the King Newton's spies. King Newton stayed silent, cunningly letting them proceed with their plan. I remember the night Aro left Novis. I confronted him with my knowledge of the map and Endis, insisting his plan would fail and urging him to repair the fissure through atonement. It appeared he was finally receptive. He admitted his errors and resolved to rectify them."
"He didn't, did he?" I was thinking this story didn't have a happy ending.
"During a festive gathering, with help from Aro, Victoria successfully broke out of her prison cell. She fled in an escape pod to a location point on Earth, following the instructions Aro had sent her. Upon his arrival, however, Aro was followed by the King and then forced to watch as the King had Victoria executed right in front of him."
"You didn't accompany him to Earth? If you were privy to his plans, why not join him?"
"I sought out Aro's father and disclosed everything. He swiftly set off for Earth, and I decided to secretly follow behind him. When we landed, I watched as Aro's father demanded to see his son. The King led him to the meeting site where Aro had found Victoria. I stealthily trailed them and discovered Aro on the ground, writhing in agony next to Victoria's lifeless body. The King declared Earth off-limits to the Omna and revealed that Aro would perish from the now-toxic environment. Despite Aro's father's pleas for mercy, even on bended knee, the King coldly ordered the destruction of the ship that brought him, stating they could die together for their betrayal."
Overwhelmed, I struggled to accept this revelation. "The toxins that ignited the great war...But… he survived," I noted.
"After the King left, I revealed myself, aware that King Newton was oblivious to my ship. Alas, it could only transport two. Faced with an impossible decision between my king and my friend, I hesitated. Aro's father, cradling his convulsing son, resigned to his fate and implored me to save Aro, to take him to a scientist named Melxa on Novis who could aid his recovery. His final wish was for me to relay his love to his mate, hopeful his death might heal the divide and save his son.
"Melxa... he saved Aro?" I asked, puzzled. It was all so complex.
My father nodded. "Aro's father succumbed to Earth's poisons, while Aro, comatose and under Melxa's care, slowly healed, remaining unconscious for months. Meanwhile, his mother passed away, leaving Novis leaderless and resource-depleted due to Earth's toxicity."
"Why didn't you mention Endis?"
"The map was lost, possibly left in the pod destroyed on Earth. Without it, locating Endis in the vastness of space seemed futile, akin to searching for a needle in a haystack.
"When did Aro recover?"
"As I told you before, it took a few months before he woke up. Melxa reported that Aro seemed to be in shock, only able to utter the name Victoria. But when he was finally able to hold a conversation, I explained the events that transpired. It was as if something inside Aro shattered irreparably. There was then a darkness in his eyes that seemed to devour his soul. His family had perished, Victoria was dead, and he himself had nearly died. I urged him to make amends, asserting that his father would have wanted it."
"Did he seek reconciliation?"
A sorrowful expression clouded my father's face. "No. Upon his recovery, Aro didn't reach out to King Newton. As the newly crowned King of Novis, Aro entered a period of mourning for his parents. That was when he created a separate kingdom where he could privately mourn the dead. Concurrently, he also tasked Melxa with unraveling the mystery of his poisoning. Melxa had already begun investigating. Aro was particularly focused on understanding how humans could concoct such an effective poison. His question was answered when a disfigured female Omna survivor returned to Novis with tales of human experimentation facilities concealed beneath the Earth's surface. Aro's wrath towards humanity intensified; he believed humans had stripped everything from him through their treachery."
"That's when he attacked?"
"Not quite. He waited. As humans began to flourish and expand on Earth, Melxa identified a remedy capable of neutralizing the Earth's toxic atmosphere. Aro plotted to lure humans into complacency, feigning remorse towards King Newton to imply that he accepted his past punishment as deserved."
Absorbing my father's words, I sat down heavily. "Did the citizens of Novis know about Aro's liaison with the human queen?"
"No one was aware of it. Only Melxa deduced the truth after I inadvertently hinted at it. But Aro strictly prohibited him from disclosing anything."
"And Melxa obeyed?"
"At the end of the day, Aro was Lord, and Melxa was devoted to his laboratory work. He faced a grim choice: death or silence."
"But he saved Aro's life. Surely, Aro wouldn't threaten his own savior."
"At that point, Aro was indifferent to the wellbeing of others. His heart had turned to ice. Only the thought of vengeance breathed life into him."
"But, you knew as well? Yet you kept silent."
My father exhaled deeply, his voice tinged with resignation. "Your mother and I were united, expecting our first child—you," he said with a gentle smile. "Aro had threatened to exile us from Novis if I dared speak of what he called 'lies.' Life off Novis is unsustainable for the Omna; we rely on the planet for rejuvenation. To leave meant condemning my family to a slow demise. Given Aro's ultimatum, I remained silent, clinging to the hope that he might regain his senses. Instead, things deteriorated. To the people of Novis, Aro depicted the humans' underground activities and the toxins that assassinated his father, almost claiming his life as well, as an unforgivable betrayal. He declared humans untrustworthy, cutting all ties between Omna and humanity and decreeing war as the only form of retribution. Anger and the thirst for vengeance drove many Omna warriors to enlist."
"The ancient wars began," I said, understanding the gravity of our history.
"Yes, Aro's thirst for vengeance led him to madness. He amassed a formidable army and eradicated every human on Earth. In a fierce onslaught, he seized King Newton's kingdom; mercy was absent—it was utter madness. All the while, I was there, commanding his forces. No matter how often I implored him to see reason, his rage had eclipsed all else. He was particularly cruel to the King—I shan't detail the tortures that King Newton suffered before his death."
Seeing my father in a new light, I asked, "You participated in killing humans?"
"Regrettably, yes. Until my conscience could no longer bear it. During the attack on the King's realm, I found Aro's map to Endis among Newton's belongings before Aro could. I was aware that Aro was looking for the map, because the coma he was in wouldn't let him recall the coordinates. Aro had hoped to find it. But King Newton had it since the death of Aro's father. Its importance was lost on me then—was Newton planning to settle Endis or simply keeping the map safe, I wondered. I made a duplicate of the map, destroyed the original, and after our return to Novis, Aro displayed the King's corpse at the entrance of the Realm as a grim warning against any human presence in Novis."
"But… what of the Omna who had human partners? They couldn't have accepted this."
"Their sentiments were irrelevant. Those bonded with humans were expelled from Novis. Such was the animosity towards humans that the majority of Omna readily agreed to leave Novis in order to protect their mates. I discreetly provided Endis' coordinates to a few I trusted. I couldn't save everyone without risking the whole operation. Should Aro have re-discovered the path to Endis, he would have ravaged it too."
"So, Aro turned the Omna against humans?"
My father exhaled deeply. "It's complicated. Reconciliation was necessary from both parties. Whether King Newton would have reciprocated is irrelevant because Aro never proposed peace."
"This planet... does it still exist?" Perhaps it could be sanctuary for Isabella and me.
My father allowed a hopeful smile. "It might."
I queried, "Why not expose Aro's deeds now?"
"It happened long ago, Enzuk. Changing ingrained societal beliefs isn't easy. Who would take the word of a retired Realm soldier seriously? Some may suspect my motives are vindictive against Aro—who would undoubtedly exile us upon hearing such accusations. It would make your life difficult, as my son. Still, you deserve to know the truth, given the perils of your own relationship."
His words left me pensive. I understood his reluctance to speak up, but it pained me to see our society shaped by one man's wrath. Peace could have been our history if Aro had entertained the notion of reconciliation. Instead, he chose a path of vengeance.
"Is that why you left the Realm?"
"Yes. I couldn't condone his actions, and he was aware of my stance. There was a time when I considered revealing his actions, yet the safety of your mother and you, took precedence. Perhaps that was selfish of me. But the thought of putting my wife and unborn child in danger was unbearable. Instead, I informed Aro of my wish to retire from the Realm to raise my family. I think he understood my true motives for leaving, but he permitted my departure."
"Is that why you brought me up on the fringes of Novis?"
"Indeed. My desire was to shield you from the propaganda—to instill in you a respect for all life, not merely Omna life. Your mother and I endeavored to nurture in all three of our children this appreciation for life."
"And was that why you tried to deter me when I sought out the Realm?"
"I did try. Your determination was unyielding. You believed I was concealing something from you. At the same time, you envied the glory and the prestigious ranks of those within the Realm and often spoke of the training in Aro's army. The more you slipped away, the more I witnessed a shift in you. You were influenced by Aro's rhetoric, and it drew you closer to his cause."
"I wanted to support the Realm."
"I know. And Aro capitalized on your eagerness, taking a special interest in you. Your determination to join his army was so strong, I felt powerless to intervene. It wasn't a surprise when your brothers followed suit."
"You could have revealed the truth to me."
"Would you have believed me?"
Probably not.
My father offered a sad smile. "You thought I was restraining you from something good. To you, I was nothing more than a traitor."
"You made no effort to challenge that perception."
"If you were convinced of that despite how I raised you, I had no desire to sway your beliefs. Aro knew you were my son, and that I did everything to keep you away from the Realm. It was no shock when he took you under his wing as if you were his own son. From that point… I suppose… my trust in you faded. I couldn't divulge the truth or the whereabouts of Endis. Had I done so, you might have revealed them to Aro and sought out the planet to execute Aro's commands. Yet, I harbored hope that you would return, and that someday I might trust you once more."
"Do you trust me now?"
"No," he said with a wry smirk, "but I trust the bond you have with Isabella. Should you disclose what I've shared, she'll suffer the consequences. Plus, you'll destroy any chance of fleeing with her. And don't deny you've contemplated escape."
"You know nothing about my intentions. Or about Isabella."
"I recognize the way you look at her—the passion in your eyes. Don't think I haven't been observant of you both."
Melxa hadn't informed my father… had he?
"Are you implying that my behavior indicates something between Isabella and myself, or has someone else fed you this information?"
He chuckled. "I need no informants to understand my own son. I sensed a change in you during the banquet. It's not merely your actions, but as your father, I perceive these shifts. Also... I caught a glimpse of you two among the trees."
I felt a shock of realization. He had seen us? Had others? Shit.
"Don't worry, son. I'm sure I was the only one there. I didn't interrupt. I assumed you were informing her about our journey," he said with a smile, but it gradually faded. "Are you bonded with her yet?"
I looked away from him. "Why do you ask?"
"Have you? Is she your mate?"
Could I truly trust my father? Might he exploit this knowledge against me? And if he revealed it to Aro, what would be the consequences? Was he trying to extract a confession? And yet, his story about Aro was convincingly consistent. What reason would he have to fabricate such deceit?
As a child, I had deemed my father a deserter to the Realm, but deception was never part of his character. Moreover, I desperately needed those coordinates if Endis indeed existed.
"Yes," I murmured. "We are mated and bonded."
My father beamed. "That's my boy," he said as he draped his arm around me, drawing me into a hug. I was shocked at his reaction. The embrace felt alien, reminiscent of my childhood—I hadn't hugged my father since my enlistment in Aro's army.
Yet it felt right. I reciprocated the hug and my father emitted a gentle laugh, his voice thick with emotion. When I leaned back, he quickly brushed a tear aside and composed himself. It was the first time I had seen my father so moved. "We'll continue this conversation later," he announced, hefting his kills onto his shoulders.
I did the same, shouldering my own.
"I'm proud of you, son. I'm overjoyed you've found someone to love. She's a stunner, and Esme would surely have adored her."
A smile came to me. "Perhaps. But I don't think Japher and Emmico would understand."
"Perhaps not now. But let's keep this between ourselves for the moment. When the time is right, I believe all will fall into place."
His words left me pondering their deeper meaning. But more urgently, who exactly was Aro? I thought I had understood him, but now I questioned everything. With growing curiosity, I now wanted to penetrate the secrets of that forbidden realm. Maybe Isabella was right—perhaps there were truths yet to be uncovered.
CARLISLE POV
I volunteered to stand guard for the first watch of the night. Enzuk had offered as well, but I insisted he rest instead. My mind was teeming with thoughts. Once my sons were soundly asleep, I sat transfixed by the dance of the flames in our campfire. Every time I closed my eyes, the vivid memories of the night Aro and I stormed King Newton's castle flooded back to me.
The night of the siege:
The city had succumbed to chaos as the Omna rampaged, slaughtering humans without mercy. Amidst the turmoil, my focus narrowed to Aro. He stood to the side, wearing a grin as he observed the extensive carnage unfolding before him.
I questioned the nature of this conflict—could such a war really be just? Glancing about, with the air filled by screams of despair, I confirmed my doubt. This wasn't justice; it was the manifestation of a single man's rage.
Turning away from the devastation, I spotted a group of humans huddled in fear. The terror in their eyes was palpable as they regarded me, likely mistaking me as another threat. A man stood protectively in front of his wife, their two young children clinging to them, and a pregnant belly indicating yet another life at stake.
The man's protective stance grew more pronounced as I approached. With a heavy sigh, I shook my head to dismiss their fears. "Follow me if you wish to live," I implored the father. He met my gaze, uncertainty written across his features. "Come on! You must trust me—you have no other choice. Now, hurry!"
Convinced, he and his family trailed behind me as I guided them through the city and underground to where the escape pods were secretly stashed. The father quickly secured his family inside one of the spacious pods, turning to me with an expression of profound thankfulness. "Thank you," he said, the relief in his voice heavy.
I gave him a set of coordinates. I knew where it would lead. But what they would find there was beyond me. "Be safe. I cannot predict where your journey will take you, but my hope is for your safety. Hurry, now—leave!" I urged them, a sense of urgency underpinning my words.
Once the pod took off, I sighed. Five humans. Could I not do better than save five lives? I crouched low to the ground and ran my fingers through my hair. This was madness. Aro's rage and power was too great. I knew he thirst for revenge was deep, but to wipe out the human race was madness.
As I ascended back toward the surface, the air was thick with the stench of fire, smoke, and the echoes of screams. An acrid scent of death mingled with the metallic reek of blood. A wave of anger and sadness overwhelmed me as I navigated my way past the unfortunate victims strewn about. Women, children – it was a tableau of the innocent. With every step, I shook my head in fury. My gaze was eventually drawn upwards, where I saw him. There Aro stood, elevated in the grandeur of the palace, surveying the chaos below through a large, open window.
"Aro," I hissed, my eyes narrowing at him. "Do you grasp the gravity of your actions? This is madness. This isn't warfare—it's outright murder."
He replied with a sinister tone, "What they inflicted on Victoria was murder. There's not enough human blood in the world to make up for her death, as far as I'm concerned."
"But you've made your point," I implored. "Cease the assault. The Omna are under your command now; you have the authority to end this bloodshed."
His resolve was unwavering. "Never! I'll spare none of them. Victoria was undeserving of her fate: ostracized, shamed, and unfairly executed by her own kind. Humanity's concept of justice is fundamentally flawed."
"Victoria was human, Aro. And she wouldn't want this. You know that. She loved her people."
"I will avenge her. I will wipe out all that King Newton stood for. His people, his lands, and his traditions. Nothing about him will survive."
"And in the process, you will kill the innocent?"
"They are all guilty. When Victoria pleaded for her life, no one intervened. No one came to her aid. They turned their backs on her—on their queen!"
"They are bound by tradition, Aro! And you! You interfered where you ought not to have. You had no entitlement to take the king's wife."
"He didn't cherish her. He violated her! He treated her like trash. I, on the other hand, loved her deeply!"
"But you never formed a bond with her, Aro."
"That opportunity was stolen from me. S-she... she was perfection itself. She deserved more than this life gave her. He snatched it from her. His blood is a fair price for that theft."
"Aro—"
"Silence, Carlisle. Stand by my side or face opposition. If you choose opposition, you should at least consider your wife and unborn child. I doubt she would welcome being cast out from Novis. Without connection to Novis's life force, you know full well Omna do not last."
"Are you threatening my family?"
"Stand with me. Or against me."
"You are my friend Aro, I—"
"I am your sovereign! I am Lord of Novis. I demand loyalty. Stand with me or join the ranks of the humans. Make your decision."
The piercing cry of a baby from a neighboring room interrupted us. Aro, alert to the sound, quickly headed in its direction, and I hastened to follow him. We found ourselves in a small nursery where a cradle stood at the center. Within it, a baby girl was crying inconsolably.
Aro picked her up, holding her closer for inspection in the dim light. His anger flared as he noticed the white diamond pendant adorned with a center of Rubix flower around her neck—a special gift Aro had given to Victoria. In a rough, swift motion, Aro yanked the necklace away, causing the infant to wail even louder.
"Aro," I began, watching him examine the necklace with intense scrutiny before turning a fierce glare toward the tiny girl. "Aro, just—give me the child. Please."
Ignoring my plea, Aro's claws grazed her soft, pale skin, making her continue her anguished cries.
"Aro, stop. Please, you don't have to do this."
"This child is his offspring," Aro stated with unsettling calm. "Why should his line be allowed to continue?"
"Aro, hand me the child. Victoria would never condone this. No mother would ever wish death upon her own baby. Surely, you understand that."
Aro finally lifted his gaze, his bright blue eyes locking with mine. "I asked you before: who do you stand with? Are you loyal to me? Or to the humans?"
"My loyalty is to you," I replied, my voice quivering with fear. Although Aro's decision was something I couldn't condone, standing against him would endanger my own wife and my firstborn.
Aro handed the crying child to me. "Prove your loyalty—get rid of it," he commanded. I looked down at the beautiful baby girl in my arms, her green eyes brimming with tears as she sobbed in search of comfort. Aro retreated with slow, deliberate steps.
"If you wish to kill the child, then do so yourself."
He turned to face me. "That's an order, Carlisle. Do not disobey your Lord. I would tend to it myself, but I am otherwise engaged."
"With what?"
"I must return Victoria to Novis. She should never have been buried on this planet. She was never one of them. Victoria belonged to me, to us—she was never theirs. It's time I brought her home."
"She would despise what you've become," I countered. "She would mourn if she knew you took the life of her only child."
"She will never know," he said coldly, "she is dead—robbed of motherhood, robbed of life. And that child is part of his lineage. Dispose of the infant, or it will cost you dearly."
With that, Aro left, and there I stood, the infant's warmth cradled in my arms. I rocked her gently. "Shhhh," I soothed. "It's alright, little one. Shhh." Each step toward the open window and the comforting breeze made me tense. The curtains fluttered softly. "It's okay," I reassured her. I leaned out the window, peering into the void below, just as the child burst into tears, her plump cheeks streaked with sadness.
Anguish welled inside me, and a lone tear born of anger and helpless frustration traced my cheek. But as I stared into her emerald eyes, I sighed and dropped my shoulders in defeat. Hastily, I drew her back from the brisk night air and pressed her tight against my warm chest. The cries subsided as I rocked her, my heart aching.
Without a second thought, I leapt from the window, clutching the child protectively. My mind throbbed with panic and fear, desperate to find a means to silence her cries. I couldn't let Aro suspect I'd spared the child, not with our impending return to Novis. I knew the city's layout, where each hospital stood. Once there, I scoured the cabinets until I discovered my quarry—chlorophyll.
It pained me to even consider it, but silence was crucial. I also found and swiftly appropriated human infant formula from the nursery. However much I questioned my own decisions, the notion of killing the child was unquestionably worse.
Safeguarding the child was arduous, yet it was accomplished because I chose to stay behind. I had led Aro to believe that my aim was to ensure that no human survivors were left on the planet. And indeed, I upheld my word.
However, instead of killing them, I covertly aided as many as I could in escaping the planet. Regrettably, I was unable to tell them what they would find on Endis. All I knew, was that it was at habitable.
When I finally returned to Novis, I discovered that Aro refused to see anyone. He had demanded seclusion. Although it was concerning, at that moment, my only concern was in the human child he had condemned—the child I was now safeguarding.
The other foremost concern on my mind was to reunite with my wife and ensure the safety of her and our unborn child. Upon seeing Esme, my heart lightened. She was a welcome sight, her smile beaming as she gently caressed her swollen belly. "Carlisle," she greeted me, her eyes brimming with happiness. Her joy, however, quickly faded to concern as she inspected me. "Carlisle?" she inquired, her gaze dropping to the silent bundle in my arms.
I moved toward her with measured steps and took a seat beside her on the bed. She eyed the sleeping infant with a mixture of curiosity and concern as I cradled it within my arms.
"C-Carlisle. Where did you find this child?"
Exhaling deeply, I replied, "It was a travesty, Esme. Aro...he lost his senses. He commanded the massacre of every human."
Esme's hand found my shoulder. "How could he be so heartless? I know what the humans did…but that doesn't mean all humans should die."
I could only shake my head. "I failed to intervene as I should have. When I tried to take a stand, I was paralyzed with shock when he insinuated threats against you and our child. His loyalty ultimatum was clear—if I didn't align with him, we would be outcasts. That's when his future intentions became clear to me. Esme, he aims to banish or annihilate every human on Novis."
"No, that can't be possible. So many Omna are bound to human partners. How could he overlook that?"
"He is blinded by his vengeance and views all humans as a contamination. His grief will fuel his lunacy. If he wiped out all humans on Earth and their planet…do you think he will not do the same on Novis?"
"So perhaps we should flee. He is clearly mad," she suggested.
I placed a hand on her cheek firmly, yet tenderly. "No, my love, we cannot abandon Novis. It sustains our very existence. I will not risk your life or that of our child's."
"But Carlisle, you can't condone Aro's actions. Some of our friends are human. You can not kill them."
After a quiet moment, I reaffirmed, "I don't agree with his actions. However, your well-being and that of our child are what matter most to me. I'll aid others where possible, but to leave Novis would be a death sentence."
"And what of the Omna forced to follow their human partners? It signifies death for them as well."
"Esme, I ache to protect everyone, but I cannot defy Aro. He will banish us. I will not let my child or you die. His might is overwhelming, and he has shut out all reason. Ensuring your safety is the limit of my power."
She then looked down at the sleeping girl in my arms, who stirred gently, and then took her from me. After looking her over with a soft smile, she whispered, "She's lovely." She then placed gentle kiss to the baby's forehead.
"You should see her eyes, mirroring her mother's."
"Her mother?"
I nodded. "What you hold in your arms is the only heir to the human throne. King Newton and Victoria's only child."
"H-how?"
"Aro wanted me to kill her."
"What will become of her?"
"I haven't decided yet."
Esme cradled the baby protectively. "I can take care of her," she suggested quietly.
"Esme, we cannot. Novis is now a perilous place for a human, especially for her," I insisted.
Defensively, she replied, "You can't possibly harm her. I will not allow it, Carlisle."
Meeting her gaze with affection, I reassured her, "No, my love. I have no intention of harming the child. There is…another planet. It's a planet that Aro intended to escape to with Victoria."
Esme nodded. She was aware of Aro's actions as much as I was. I didn't shy away from keeping her informed. But I never told her about Endis.
"Another planet?" she asked, her voice laced with skepticism.
"Yes, but we must keep it a secret from everyone. Its existence cannot be revealed." She nodded, taking in the gravity of the situation. "Aro had a map to another planet called Endis, in his pod when he went to retrieve Victoria. It was assumed that the map was destroyed, since King Newton destroyed his pod. I thought I would never see the map again. But, when we stormed King Newton's kingdom, I found the map that he had taken form Aro's pod in his private corridors. I took it and hid it from Aro. Of course, Aro made a search of the Kings possessions himself after I did. He wouldn't reveal what he was looking for, but I was sure he was looking for his map."
"This planet…you have been there?"
I shook my head. "No. But from his notes, it seemed like a decent sanctuary. If he intended to take Victoria there, it must have been safe. He would never endanger her."
"But, if you have been sending others there…how do you know Aro won't find them eventually? He was the one that discovered the planet."
I smiled at her. "He can't remember where it is. Since his coma, he can't recall the coordinates. His only hope was finding his map and written directions. Which I destroyed. But not without making a copy for my own records. I don't know what that planet holds, but I am certain the child will be safe there."
"But how can we be certain?"
"I'll travel there myself. Aro is engulfed in mourning at this time; my absence won't raise any suspicions. If I leave now, there's a chance I can find a family willing to take her in and protect her."
"You're considering entrusting her to strangers?" doubt tinted her voice.
"It's the only way to ensure her survival," I replied, a firm resolve in my words.
"And what about her identity? Will you reveal that she's the rightful heir? She's destined to be a queen," she said, emphasizing the weight of little girl's future.
"We must keep that information secret for her safety. As long as the threat looms, neither Aro's agents nor anyone else can uncover her true identity. Should it become known that the rightful heir is alive, we could face exile, and worse, she could be in grave danger," I said, my voice tinged with a mix of fear and resolve. "In these treacherous times, there are Omna who might trade her life for a chance to return to Novis. These are uncertain times."
Esme understood. "I will care for her until you come back."
But I disagreed. "It's safer if she travels with me."
"No, Carlisle. She's an infant. What if you face danger on your journey? Protecting her might prove difficult."
I appreciated her protectiveness; she had always had the makings of an excellent mother. At the end of a long drawn-out conversation, I agreed with Esme.
Nonetheless, my journey took me to Endis. Upon arrival, I was heartened by the sight of survivors and their families, all eager to rebuild their lives on this new planet that so resembled Earth.
When Aro eventually banned humans on Novis, I provided safe passage for the trustful Omna and their human partners, thanks to my knowledge of the coordinates. Then the time came again, when I had to talk to Esme about releasing the child into another's care. To my surprise, Esme wished to oversee it herself. Her emotional bond to the little girl had grown strong, and she desired to ensure the child's wellbeing personally, even choosing her name.
"You've named her?" I inquired.
"Yes," Esme beamed, caressing the child's cheek as she slept. "Her name is Renesmee."
"Esme, I understand you want to join me, but it's not safe with your pregnancy so advanced. I can't risk your well-being..."
"I'll be fine," she interjected with a calm smile. "Renesmee needs me, and I'll stand by her side until I find someone truly worthy to care for her. Until then, I am her mother."
After much deliberation, it was agreed that Esme would join me on my journey to Endis. Once there, we ended up leaving Renesmee in the care of Erican, a dear friend of mine, and his human partner, Jessica, who vowed to look after her as if she were their own. Esme was hesitant and tearfully parted with Renesmee, but she made a commitment to frequently return and check on her well-being.
Shortly after we returned to Novis, Esme gave birth to our son, Enzuk. It was around this time that I chose to retire and leave the Realm behind. Esme had no objections to our living on the outskirts of Novis; she relished the tranquility and spent her days with Enzuk in the forests, educating him about the various plants and flowers. I, on the other hand, found pleasure in taking Enzuk on hunting expeditions, teaching him self-defense and survival skills.
Enzuk was a quick learner, absorbing everything we taught him with remarkable ease. He even began venturing into labyrinths, despite my warnings about their potential hazards. He inexplicably seemed to share a special connection with the plant life within these mazes. His affinity was extraordinary.
Esme and I alternated visits to Endis to check on the child. However, once Enzuk grew old enough to fend for himself, we started traveling together.
To Renesmee, we were akin to honored godparents. Esme always presented her with a Rubix flower, which was rumored to possess healing properties—though whether this was true remained to be seen. Our visits became less frequent once Esme fell pregnant with Emmico and, shortly after, Japher. Life turned fun, hectic, and amazing.
Esme had hoped for a daughter, but it seemed that was not our destiny. As Renesmee matured into a striking young woman, we decided it was time to disclose her story to Erican and Jessica, believing enough time had passed for them to handle the truth. However, Renesmee accidentally overheard the conversation.
Our original plan was for Erican and Jessica to inform her when they deemed appropriate, but unfortunately, she had learned too much too soon. Esme and I could see from that day on that a fire began to burn inside Renesmee.
Stoking the crackling fire, I sighed as I recalled the day Aro found out that humans were reclaiming their homeland to restore King Newton's realm. Rumors circulated that a child claiming rightful succession to the throne was leading this resurgence. Esme and I feared Aro's reaction, well aware that he wouldn't take kindly to what he considered a revolt. It was only a matter of time before he decided to quash the supposed uprising himself.
Esme and I knew it was Renesmee. By that time, she had matured into a woman, appearing to be in her early 20s by human standards. No matter how often we cautioned her against it, she remained resolute in her path. She insisted it was her duty to avenge her family, alleging that Aro had murdered them, and she saw it as her responsibility to uphold their legacy.
Of course Aro took it as a challenge. He never inquired whether I had actually carried out the deed to kill the child. It was possible that he entertained the notion it was an impostor, not the true heir, making the claim. Regardless, his objective was to obliterate all humans he saw as participants in the uprising. Esme, fear-stricken for Renesmee, implored me to somehow influence Aro's decision. However, I knew if I were to intervene, it would only heighten Aro's suspicions.
We agreed that the best plan was to approach Renesmee and persuade her of the imminent danger. We needed to alert her that Aro would show no mercy—that he intended to annihilate her and all her allies. However, when we finally arrived, it was already too late. Aro had stealthily executed his assault, opting for secrecy. Neither Esme nor I had received any indication of his impending attack. The sight of lifeless bodies strewn across the ravaged landscape was overwhelming. Overcome with grief, Esme collapsed to her knees, weeping in my embrace.
We scavenged the wreckage for days looking for Renesmee. Any sign of her among all the bodies. Some were burned or torn apart completely. The horrific sight was unbearable. Among the lifeless forms, any could have been Renesmee. Our search came to a harrowing end upon discovering the gold necklace - a gift from Esme for Renesmee's fifteenth birthday - lying amidst a pile of ashes.
Upon our return to Novis, weighed down by sorrow, Esme was consumed by profound mourning. In the meanwhile, I found myself solely responsible for the children. The air bristled with unease when Aro, having not called upon me since my departure from the Realm, summoned me to his secluded domain. With the shadow of Renesmee's death looming over us, his sudden need for dialogue stirred a deep nervousness within me. Esme, compelled by the circumstances, had to temporarily set aside her grief as I made my way to meet with Aro.
As I eased open the towering double doors, I stepped into the secluded sanctum that Aro had built solely from himself. It was a grand expanse, luxurious and sophisticated, brimming with life. Spectacular gardens sprawled across the grounds like emerald seas dotted with vibrant blossoms.
Ornate fountains danced with crystal clear water, casting prismatic sprays under the caress of sunlight. Majestic gates stood guard at the estate's bounds, with their intricate ironwork. The air was a symphony of wild harmonies, with the rustle of leaves and the quiet footfalls of elusive creatures creating a background to this opulent oasis.
I had never stepped foot in Aro's private sanctum, and I was well aware that entering his domain without an invitation was strictly forbidden. When Aro appeared from the gloom, his blue eyes shone with an unreadable emotion—a blend of tranquility and fury.
"You summoned me?" I inquired.
He scrutinized me in silence before responding with ice-cold words. "You defied my orders."
"I don't understand what you mean."
"The child—King Newton's heir. You were supposed to take its life, as commanded. And yet, you spared the child."
"Why would you believe I'd do such a thing?"
"Because," a sinister grin played across his lips. "I saw her."
My anger surged, veins throbbing at my neck. "She was just a baby that night, Aro. How could you possibly recognize her now? It might have been an imposter, pretending to be King Newton's heir."
He smiled again, looking pleased with himself. "It was no imposter. It was her, unmistakably. It was amazing how much she looked like her mother," he said thoughtfully. He then redirected his gaze back to me, "I know you spared the child. But, I'm not looking for a confession. To be honest, I always doubted your loyalty. The fact that the child lives is living proof my suspicions were correct. You can be so weak, you know." He shook his head, "always the sentimental one. However, lucky for you, your actions are not the reason I called you here."
"What have you done to the child?"
"She's no longer a child, be assured, " he chuckled. "You should know that, as I'm sure you kept a close eye on her. She has indeed grown-striking beauty. Not quite like her mother, but similar enough. Her mother was a flower, where as she is much like an unchecked weed."
"What did you do?" I stepped toward him, demanding an answer.
Aro's smile broadened. "That is why I summoned you. I feel you should know the fruits of your labor. I wanted to tell you I've completed what you should have. I did what you could not." He chuckled, "She would have endured less pain if you had obeyed. Do you know, she had the audacity to call me a murder?" He smirked. "I made her pay for that."
I fixed Aro with a burning glare. "You son a bitch. What kind of Lord are you? You are no Lord! You're just a murderer. She was right to call you that."
"And you, a traitor. Only because of our former friendship—which once led you to save my life and bring me back to Novis—do I spare you now. Disobeying your Lord's orders merits death. But a life for a life. Consider my debt repaid as I overlook this one incident."
"You should have left that child be. She posed no threat to you. What could she have possibly done to you?"
"No threat," he smiled. "Her little army was quite pitiful. Still, I couldn't have rebels running around. Especially ones related to King Newton. But you know what gets me? Curiously, amid her cries of pain, she uttered the word 'Endis.' Now that got me thinking...you don't think she actually found the planet Endis do you? I mean how would that be possible? Someone would have had to shown her the way. Or...taken her there." A smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "You wouldn't happen to know how she got to Endis, would you?"
"Why don't you just ask her?" I seethed back. "Oh wait, you killed her. Maybe you should have thought your actions through. Either way, I'm glad you can't hurt her any more."
He tipped his head to the side. "Hm," was all he said, the wheels in his turning. "So. My friend, you are saying that you do not have the coordinates to Endis?"
"I have nothing to give you. And now, I wish to return to my family."
He smiled, which irked me, as it was a devious smile. Like he knew something I didn't. "I have no doubt there are more humans out there, probably hiding on Endis. If only I had the coordinates." His piercing gaze fell on me again. "The girl grew there, she seemed well-acquainted with the name. But, she was a tough one. Despite her agony, she gave nothing away regarding the coordinates. She was stronger than I thought her to be. Who would have thought that something so delicate and small could endue so much torture?"
I turned to leave, my anger relentless. "Carlisle," Aro called after me, his voice echoing. "Know that she suffered greatly. I took my time with her. Now you will live with that burden. Disloyalty is never the path."
Clutching my hands into fists, I stormed out.
I revealed nothing of what Aro said to me to Esme. In my story, I chose to keep Aro's words a secret from Esme. Her heart had already suffered ample sorrow. Instead, I narrated to her a half-truth: Aro had contemplated entrusting me with a task, but I declined, opting to remain with the family we were nurturing together. I left it at that. The thought of revealing the tragic fate that had struck our dear Renesmee was more than I could bear.
A/N: Wow wee!
So...What do we think of Aro's actions?
That was a lot to take in. Share your thoughts please. I'm trying to get some feedback on this story. Favorites/follows and yes, reviews welcomed. Thanks for reading. I'll see you in the next chapter as this story comes soon to it's climax. :)