Bella's Point of View

It was near midnight, before we got any updates on the hunt for Emmett. I had drifted in and out of sleep for the past few hours, cradled in Edward's arms. His hand rested on my stomach. But I felt him shift quickly from the bed, his phone pressed to his ear and a grim look on his face.

"Tell me that you found him." Edward said with a cold tone. He moved to grab his robe, wrapping it around himself to creep out of our room. He closed the door behind him.

I was about to get up as well and follow after him, but my body went completely still. I couldn't force myself to move an inch. Fear was the immediate response. I felt my chest rise and fall rapidly for a moment. I struggled against the invisible force holding me in place. I couldn't even open my mouth to scream out for help.

Don't worry my dear. It's just me. Please calm yourself. A floating voice sounded in my head. My eyes scanned the room, confirming it wasn't a physical person. I indeed heard that from inside my own mind. And I recognized the voice. It was the grim. Relief washed over me.

Your mother and I would like to speak with you. Do we have permission to bring your subconsciousness to our domain? The grim's voice filled my head. A strong, unwavering voice that I've grown quite accustomed to. However, there was an edge to his voice. Something was wrong.

I reached out to him with my own thoughts. Yes, of course.

Without warning, a mild headache started brewing. My shut my eyes tightly at the discomfort. A strange sensation caught my attention. It felt like I was falling asleep and at the same time, it felt like my body was being whisked away. My vision went dark for just a moment. All the sounds stopped. I couldn't feel anything. And after this brief period of losing all my senses, the grim and Matrika were the only ones in sight. I was no longer in my room. That much was clear.

Matrika was the first to move, wrapping me in a warm embrace. A sad smile was on her face as she held me close. "I'm so glad that you are safe."

I hugged her back, enjoying the feeling of a mother's care. It was such a foreign concept for me. I wasn't sure I would ever get used to this.

"What do you mean, of course I'm alright." I said as she finally let me go.

The grim stepped forward as well, eyeing me over from head to toe. As if performing a physical inspection. "That devil didn't harm you, right?"

"Devil? Are you talking about Rebecca?" I asked curiously, glancing between the both of them.

"That monster, isn't to be trusted dear. I'm certain now, Aro isn't the main villain to this story. He is a pawn. Honestly, he is a victim to a certain degree." Matrika warned. "Regardless, he must be dealt with. But we have to cut the head off the snake first."

"I'm guessing you mean his wife? Sulpicia. She's the mastermind here… isn't she?"

The grim sighed, exchanging a tense look with Matrika. "I'm guessing Edward has given you the details of Sulpicia. And the unfortunate events of how her bloodline was created."

"I heard that a demon… did something unspeakable to Matrika. And because of that, a hybrid creature was created. Thus, creating Sulpicia's powers and abilities."

Matrika casted her eyes to the ground, appearing pained. "I just didn't have the heart to destroy the child. I wanted to believe, with the right nurturing, he would be a good boy. Like the rest of the children. But I was wrong. I made the wrong choice."

I reached out, lightly stroking her shoulder. "No, you shouldn't see it that way. It's okay… to love a child, even though they didn't turn out how you wanted them too…"

The grim shook his head in disapproval. "Agree to disagree," He looked away from the both of us. I could tell he didn't like what I had said. This clearly was still an uncomfortable topic. It caused both of them pain. Even though it happened so long ago. "More importantly, Lux, the demon lord of lust has returned to earth. He escaped purgatory. Everyone is in imminent danger."

"What?!" I gasped in horror. Instantly, my thoughts went to Edward. I had to return to him and let him know. "How could that happen?"

"Sulpicia had apparently been working on this for a long time. The moment she caught Aro and Esme in an affair, her schemes started. Her only goal is to punish Esme. Which means, her whole family is the target. This includes you now sweetheart." Matrika said with a heavy sigh.

"I have to warn Edward about this." I said, on the verge of a full blown anxiety attack.

"Don't worry, Emmett is telling him everything at this very moment. The reason we brought you here, was because we know Edward will keep all this information from you."

I opened my mouth to response with annoyance, but the grim raised a hand, stopping me with the smallest smile. "Don't be upset by this. It's commendable. He doesn't want to worry you. Or put the babies at risk by stressing you out. I approve of this deception."

"However, you need to be fully informed," Matrika said narrowing her eyes at the grim slightly. "So, we would like to explain this to you, in a way that won't concern you. Truly dear, you have nothing to worry about. We will protect you."

"What is left to explain? The demons are coming after us. To kill us all. Right?"

"Well, that is Sulpicia's plan. I'm sure Lux has something entirely different planned. Of course, he will help her with her plans, but when that's over, he will have Sulpicia help him achieve his goal."

"What's his goal?"

"He wants to resurrect the rest of the demon lords. And take my position by force. Become the rulers over all souls and their fates. And we can't let that happen." The grim said with anger flashing in his strange eyes.

That sounded extremely bad. The worse possible thing that could happen to humanity. And no one was even aware of it. This could change everything. Things were so much worse than I had thought.

"What can we do?" I asked, beginning to feel helpless.

"Don't fret my darling. There is a very simple answer to that question. We must unite you with the rest of your siblings. Our children are the strongest beings on this earth. And together, I'm confident we can defeat those monsters once and for all." The grim smiled brilliantly.

Matrika smiled as well, pulling me close once again. "You are the key to our survival. I'm sure of it, sweetie. You, hand in hand with all your siblings. You all have enough power to end this. So, no one will be hurt. I know it's a lot to ask, if there was another way… we wouldn't even bring this up."

I felt the wind get knocked out of me for a moment as I stared blankly at the grim and Matrika. "You're kidding right? There is no way I have that kind of power. I wouldn't be helpful to anyone." I paused, looking down at my stomach. "Plus… there isn't much I can do... while pregnant like this…"

"Of course, we wouldn't ask you to fight while carrying our grandchildren. It was surely take a long time for you to be ready for something like this. It will require training and a lot of sacrifices. I'm sure we could manage without you. The other kids would probably be able to take care of this crisis themselves. But there is something in my gut… telling me we have no chance… unless you are there." The grim said hesitantly. "After the babies are born, we would like for you to think what we are asking of you."

"If it will keep my loved ones safe, there is nothing I need to think about. I'll do whatever you ask. As long as it's after the babies are born." I said with a firm nod. "If you really think I can be of use…"

"I'm certain of it." The grim nodded, relief coloring his expression. "Again, we won't let you, or any of your siblings get hurt. I'm just not strong enough on my own to take down seven demon lords on my own. My kidos just need to give a small amount of assistance."

"You can count on me. I'll do what ever it takes." I smiled at him, feeling good to know they seemed to depend on me so much. They had faith in my power. They had faith in me. So I couldn't let them down. They were the only parents I had left after all. Ana doesn't need me anymore. Both my other parents had passed away. I was certain there was nothing I could do for Edward, other than be in his life and love him unconditionally. This would be for my new family and my babies.

"We are so happy to hear that." Matrika said pulling me back into a tight embrace. "I can't wait for you to meet the others. They are all very excited to meet you. Our baby of the family."

Her words would have caused my face to go red. It was a little embarrassing to be called the baby. I was used to being the oldest. The big sister. Never coddled or shown any favoritism. "When will I get to meet them?"

"Well, I was hoping to throw you a baby shower, it was meant to be a surprise. But all your siblings will be in attendance. I've made sure of that." Matrika said with a grin. "They will be bringing their children along as well. Needless to say, it's going to be quite a rowdy bunch."

The grim smirked, chuckling quietly. "It's been ages since the whole family has been together in one place. Since the day of your birth, I suppose." He looked at me fondly.

"Wow, this is a little exciting… I'm a bit nervous to meet everyone at once… when exactly is this baby shower? How long do I have to mentally prepare myself?"

"Well, since it's pretty likely your pregnancy will end a bit sooner than expected, due to them being twins. I'd scheduled it for the beginning of next month. So, you should have time to prepare darling." Matrika grinned widely. "Now, we should probably send you back, I suspect Edward will be returning to the room shortly. I suggest you give him some time to recollect himself. Emmett was badly injured. Give him some space."

I felt my eyes widen. "Oh no, Emmett was hurt? It was from the demon wasn't it? They really did kidnap him…" Edward must be so upset. Emmett's safety meant a lot to him. He always seemed to look after him like the older brother. He felt responsible for him. I'm sure this was going to be difficult for him. I would respect his space and give him time to process his own emotions. When he is ready to tell me about what happened, I'll be patient and supportive.

"Lux is one of the more sadist demons. One that I'd hate to encounter with my guard lowered. Emmett is extremely lucky to have survived this ordeal. I'd say he had some spiritual help making it back to the land of living." The grim said with a serious nod.

"Enough of that, we have just about reached our limit honey, let's send her back, before the fiancé gets suspicious." Matrika said with a cheeky grin. "Good night sweet pea. We love you baby girl." She cooed at me. Her lips just briefly touched my forehead, before suddenly everything went dark again. My vision and the rest of my senses vanished along with her.

It felt like my body remained still, while the rest of the world was spinning around me at an alarming speed. I braced myself, waiting to feel something. Any kind of impact or pressure. Instead, I felt my eyes flutter open for a moment. I was back in my room. Still lying in bed. The covers draped over me.

Edward was pressed into my side, I could feel his chest against my back, a gentle breath tickling my neck. His hand lightly trickled down over my exposed shoulder. I closed my eyes, wanting to remain as still as possible. I didn't want him to realize I was awake. Edward needed time to compose himself. Emmett had gotten hurt. I would be there for him; the moment he reached out to me. I'd be sure of that.

After a while, I felt Edward shift once again, a heavy sigh rolling past his lips, causing my hair to blow slightly against my neck. "I almost lost him Bella. I don't know how I would have handled it. I don't know if it would have changed me. The thought scares me. I know I shouldn't be reckless, not with you and our children depending on me… But when I heard Emmett nearly lost his life… I almost did the unthinkable. I almost went out to find the bastard myself." He whispered to himself. I'm certain he assumed that I was still asleep, so I didn't reply.

I couldn't blame Edward for feeling this way. Of course he would want to avenge his brother. When he lost his temper, all rationality left him. I am glad he didn't go. I'm thankful he had calmed down enough to think things over more. I don't know what I'd do if I lost him.

"I realized something, very important." He continued. "If I want to protect the people I care about, I need to get stronger. Demons are a major threat to the lives of all of us. I can't sit idle. I must take action. The company will need to go through a reform. Our reapers aren't trained for actual combat. Only reaping souls. It's supposed to be our only true purpose. But the times of peace have ended. Now, we are entering a new era of war. It's going to be ugly. But I hope you will remain by my side through it all."

I felt my heart squeeze hard in my chest. His words were so full of conviction. How could I not support him? I loved him too much to ever leave his side. No matter the cost, I would help him to the best of my ability.

"I'm sorry this had to happen now that we have found each other. I was hoping to really slow down and enjoy loving you. Raise my children in peace. Have a happy, simple life. But that dream… is going to have to wait for a little bit. Will you wait for me? Please? Allow me to fix this mess we found ourselves in. Then I promise, you will have me and everything I am for eternity."

Yes, of course I'll wait. Even if I had a choice in this scenario. I'd wait until the end of time. It would be worth it. When we finally could be together without worrying about anything else. I knew things would change now. There wouldn't be time for going on dates, flirting and acting like lovesick teenagers. Not anymore. Not until we stopped Lux and the rest of the demons. Not to mention Sulpicia and Aro. I understood that. Even though it was a bit sad. I could accept this new reality. I just hoped all of this could be resolved soon.

Now, I felt Edward's hand slide down to rest on my stomach. The moment he did, for the very first time, I felt the faintest twinge. The first kick. The feeling made me gasp, in turn causing Edward to flinch. He pulled his hand away for a brief second, before placing it back.

I peeked over my shoulder, making eye contact with him.

"Was that…" He muttered with an astonished look on his face.

I nodded, unable to hold back my smile. I lightly moved my hand over to place it on Edward's. "The first kick. I'm glad we both got to feel it… together."

"Do you think, they will do it again?"

"I'm sure it will happen more and more, once I get a bit further along."

He nodded, his eyes lingering on our joined hands. "Now that you are awake, there is… a lot I need to tell you." His expression hardened slightly. He was bracing himself. It was clear talking about this right now would only upset him.

"Does it have to be said right now? I mean, can it wait until morning?" I asked softly, snuggling myself back against him.

He sighed and I could feel relief washing through him. An easy smile came to his face for a moment. "Actually, it would be better if we talked in the morning. Tonight, has been… difficult. I'd rather try to get some rest. If you don't mind."

"I don't mind at all. I'm pretty exhausted. I doubt I would be able to comprehend anything at this point. So, let's talk tomorrow. Whenever you feel up to it." I suggested letting my eyes close.

"Alright," He replied, wrapping his arms around me, holding me close. His hand rested on my stomach. I felt his lips at the top of my head. "I love you, Bella."

"I love you to, no matter what our future holds. No matter what sacrifices have to be made. I'll always be at your side."

The End.

The sequel will be starting within the next few days. To make it easier for readers, I've decided to just continue adding chapters here, so you guys don't have to go looking for a completely new story. Thanks for all the support and wonderful comments.

Do me a little favor! Tell me who are your favorite characters in this story? Who is your least favorite? What was your favorite part? Did any scenes make you feel sad? Angry? Finally, what would you like to see in the continuation.

My final thoughts

As the writer, I am a little biased on these characters. But I'd have to say, my favorite character is Katlyn. The loyal best friend to our main characters. She doesn't get as much dialog as she deserves. And my least favorite character is Renee. After everything she has done… I almost regret giving her a happy ending. And Jasper. He just rubs me the wrong way at times. (And I made him that way, so why am I upset about that?)

My favorite part of this story was Ana's funeral, with Bella finding out she is the grim's daughter. The drama with Renee. Very fun scene to write.

The parts of this story that made me feel the most sadness and angry, were mostly aligned with Emmett. How he chooses to deal with difficult emotions, how he resents his brother for what he doesn't have, and secretly wants Bella all to himself. At the same time, his character makes me pity him a lot. He is misunderstood by most. He feels alone and different from the rest of his peers. He has been lied to for most of his life.