The Twilight Saga 4: Breaking Dawn 36. Bloodlust

They came with pageantry, with a kind of beauty.They came in a rigid, formal formation. They go together, that it was non a march they raceed in perfect synchronicity from the trees a dark, un bustn shape that seemed to h over a few inches above the face cloth snow, so smooth was the advance.The unwraper perimeter was gray the comment darkened with each line of bodies until the insuret of the formation was deepest black. Every face was cowled, shadowed. The faint coppice sound of their feet was so regular it was like music, a complicated beat that never faltered.At some sign I did not see or perhaps there was no sign, only millennia of practice the configuration folded popward. The motion was too stiff, too square to resemble the opening of a flower, though the color suggested that it was the opening of a fan, graceful provided very angular. The gray-cloaked figures spread to the flanks part the darker forms surged precisely onwards in the center, each movement closel y controlled.Their progress was irksome but deliberate, with no hurry, no hug drugsion, no anxiety. It was the pace of the invincible.This was almost my old nightmare. The only function lacking was the gloating desire Id seen on the faces in my romance the smiles of vindictive joy. Thus far, the Volturi were too disciplined to show any sense at all told. They also showed no surprise or dismay at the prayer of vampires that waited for them here a collection that looked suddenly disorganized and unprepared in comparison. They showed no surprise at the giant creature that stood in our midst.I couldnt supporter counting. thither were thirty- devil of them. Even if you did not count the two drifting, waifish black-cloaked figures in the very keep going, who I took to be the wives their fostered position suggesting that they would not be affect in the attack we were tranquil outnumbered. There were just nineteen of us who would fight, and then s regular more to watch as w e were destroyed. Even counting the ten wolves, they had us.The redcoats are coming, the redcoats are coming, Garrett muttered mysteriously to himself and then chuckled once. He slid mavin step nearer to Kate.They did come, Vladimir whispered to Stefan.The wives, Stefan hissinged back. The ideal vindication. All of them together. Its well we didnt try Volterra.And then, as if their be were not enough, piece of music the Volturi slowly and majestically advanced, more vampires began entering the clarification foot them.The faces in this seemingly endless influx of vampires were the antithesis to the Volturis expressionless discipline they wore a kaleidoscope of emotions. At first there was the impact and even some anxiety as they saw the unexpected force awaiting them. But that concern passed quickly they were conceptive in their overwhelming numbers, secure in their position behind the unstoppable Volturi force. Their features re move to the expression theyd worn before w ed surprised them.It was easy enough to understand their brainpower the faces were that explicit. This was an angry mob, whipped to a frenzy and slavering for nicety. I did not fully realize the vampire worlds feeling toward the immortal children before I read these faces.It was clear that this motley, disorganized horde more than forty vampires altogether was the Volturis own kind of witness. When we were dead, they would spread the word that the criminals had been eradicated, that the Volturi had acted with nothing but impartiality. Most looked like they hoped for more than just an obtain to witness they postulateed to help tear and burn.We didnt confuse a prayer. Even if we could somehow neutralize the Volturis advantages, they could still bury us in bodies. Even if we killed Demetri, Jacob would not be able to outrun this.I could feel it as the same comprehension sunk in around me. Despair weighted the air, pushing me fell with more pressure than before.One vampire in the opposing force did not seem to belong to either party I recognized Irina as she hesitated in between the two companies, her expression unique among the others. Irinas horrified respect was locked on Tanyas position in the front line. Edward snarled, a very low but fervent sound.Alistairwas right, he murmured to Carlisle.I watched Carlisle glance at Edward questioningly.Alistair was right? Tanya whispered.They Caius and Aro come to destroy and acquire, Edward leaded almost silently back only our side could ascertain. They suck many layers of strategy already in place. If Irinas accusation had somehow proven to be false, they were committed to find another reason to take come toense. But they screw see Renesmee now, so they are perfectly sanguine about their course. We could still attempt to defend against their other contrived charges, but first they substantiate to stop, to hear the equity about Renesmee. then(prenominal), even lower. Which they expect no intention of doing.Jacob gave a strange little huff.And then, unexpectedly, two seconds later, the procession did halt. The low music of perfectly synchronizedmovements turned to silence. The flawless discipline remained unbroken the Volturi froze into absolute stillness as one. They stood about a hundred yards mangle from us.Behind me, to the sides, I comprehend the lace of large hearts, closer than before. I risked glances to the left and the right from the corners of my eye to see what had stopped the Volturi advance.The wolves had joined us.On either side of our uneven line, the wolves branched out in long, bordering arms. I only spared a fraction of a second to note that there were more than ten wolves, to recognize the wolves I k unsanded and the ones Id never seen before. There were sixteen of them spaced evenly around us seventeen total, counting Jacob. It was clear from their heights and oversized paws that the newcomers all were very, very young. I supposed I should have forese en this. With so many vampires encamped in the neighborhood, a werewolf population explosion was inevitable.More children dying. I wondered why Sam had allowed this, and then I established he had no other choice. If any of the wolves stood with us, the Volturi would be sure to search out the sleep. They had gambled their entire species on this stand.And we were going to lose.Abruptly, I was furious. Beyond furious, I was murderously enraged. My hopeless despair vanished entirely. A faint reddish glow highlighted the dark figures in front of me, and all I wanted in that second base was the chance to sink my dentition into them, to rip their limbs from their bodies and pile them for burning. I was so maddened I could have danced around the pyre where they roasted alive I would have laughed while their ashes smoldered. My lips curved back automatically, and a low, fierce snarl tore up my throat from the pit of my stomach. I realized the corners of my mouth were turned up in a smil e.Beside me, Zafrina and Senna echoed my hushed growl. Edward squeezed the establish he still held, cautioning me.The shadowed Volturi faces were still expressionless for the most part. Only two sets of eyes betrayed any emotion at all. In the very center, touching pop offs, Aro and Caius had paused to evaluate, and the entire guard had paused with them, waiting for the order to kill. The two did not look at each other, but it was open-and-shut that they were communicating. Marcus, though touching Aros other hand, did not seem partof the conversation. His expression was not as mindless as the guards, but it was nearly as blank. want the one other eon Id seen him, he appeared to be utterly bored.The bodies of the VolturFs witnesses leaned toward us, their eyes fixed furiously on Renesmee and me, but they stayed near the fringe of the forest, leaving a wide berth between themselves and the Volturi soldiers. Only Irina hovered close behind the Volturi, just a few paces away from t he ancient females both fair-haired with powdery strip and filmed eyes and their two massive bodyguards.There was a woman in one of the darker gray cloaks just behind Aro. I couldnt be sure, but it looked like she might actually be touching his back. Was this the other shield, Renata? I wondered, as Eleazar had, if she would be able to repel me.But I would not bollix up my life trying to get to Caius or Aro. I had more vital targets.I searched the line for them now and had no difficulty picking out the two petite, deep gray cloaks near the heart of the arrangement. Alec and Jane, easily the smallest members of the guard, stood just to Marcuss side, flanked by Demetri on the other. Their lovely faces were smooth, giving nothing away they wore the darkest cloaks beside the pure black of the ancients. The bewitch twins, Vladimir had called them. Their powers were the cornerstone of the Volturi offensive. The jewels in Aros collection.My muscles flexed, and venom welled in my mout h.Aros and Caiuss clouded red eyes flickered across our line. I read disappointment in Aros face as his gaze roved over our faces again and again, looking for one that was missing. Chagrin tightened his lips.In that second base, I was nothing but grateful that Alice had run.As the pause lengthened, I heard Edwards breath speed.Edward? Carlisle asked, low and anxious.Theyre not sure how to proceed. Theyre weighing options, choosing key targets me, of course, you, Eleazar, Tanya. Marcus is reading the strength of our ties to each other, looking for weak points. The Romanians presence irritates them. Theyre worried about the faces they dont recognize Zafrina and Senna in particular and the wolves, naturally. Theyve never been outnumbered before. Thats what stopped them.Outnumbered? Tanya whispered incredulously.They dont count their witnesses, Edward breathed. They are nonentities, meaningless to the guard. Aro just enjoys an audience.Should I speak? Carlisle asked.Edward hesitated , then nodded. This is the only chance youll get.Carlisle squared his shoulders and paced some(prenominal)(prenominal) steps a division of our defensive line. I hated to see him alone, unprotected.He spread his arms, holding his palms up as if in greeting. Aro, my old friend. Its been centuries.The white clearing was dead silent for a long moment. I could feel the tension rolling off Edward as he listened to Aros assessment of Carlisles words. The strain mounted as the seconds ticked by.And then Aro stepped forward out of the center of the Volturi formation. The shield, Renata, moved with him as if the tips of her fingers were sewn to his robe. For the first time, the Volturi ranks reacted. A muttered grumble rolled through the line, eyebrows lowered into scowls, lips curled back from teeth. A few of the guard leaned forward into a crouch.Aro held one hand up toward them. Peace.He walked just a few paces more, then cocked his head to one side. His milky eyes glinted with curiosity. Fair words, Carlisle, he breathed in his thin, wispy voice. They seem out of place, considering the host youve assembled to kill me, and to kill my dear ones.Carlisle shook his head and stretched his right hand forward as if there were not still almost a hundred yardsbetween them. You have but to touch my hand to know that was never my intent.Aros shrewd eyes narrowed. But how can your intent possibly matter, dear Carlisle, in the face of what you have done? He frowned, and a shadow of sadness crossed his features whether it was genuine or not, I could not tell.I have not committed the crime you are here to visit me for.Then step aside and let us punish those responsible. Truly, Carlisle, nothing would please me more than to preserve your life today.No one has broken the law, Aro. allow me explain. Again, Carlisle offered his hand.Before Aro could answer, Caius drifted swiftly forward to Aros side.So many pointless rules, so many unnecessary laws you create for yourself, Carlisl e, the white-haired ancient hissed. How is it possible that you defend the good luck of one that truly matters?The law is not broken. If you would listen We see the child, Carlisle, Caius snarled. Do not treat us as fools.She is not an immortal. She is not a vampire. I can easily prove this with just a few moments Caius cut him off. If she is not one of the forbidden, then why have you massed a battalion to protect her?Witnesses, Caius, just as you have brought. Carlisle gestured to the angry horde at the edge of the woods some of them growled in response. Any one of these friends can tell you the truth about the child. Or you could just look at her, Caius. See the flush of human blood in her cheeks.Artifice Caius snapped. Where is the informer? Let her come forward He craned his neck around until he spotted Irina lingering behind the wives. You ComeIrina stared at him uncomprehendingly, her face like that of someone who has not entirely alter from a hideous nightmare. Impatient ly, Caius snapped his fingers. One of the wives huge bodyguards moved to Irinas side and prodded her roughly in the back. Irina blinked twice and then walked slowly toward Caius in a daze. She stopped several yards short, her eyes still on her sisters.Caius closed the distance between them and slapped her across the face.It couldnt have hurt, but there was something terribly degrading about the action. It was like ceremonial someone kick a dog. Tanya and Kate hissed in synchronization.Irinas body went rigid and her eyes finally focused on Caius. He pointed one clawed finger at Renesmee, where she clung to my back, her fingers still tangled in Jacobs fur. Caius turned entirely red in my furious view. A growl rumbled through Jacobs chest.This is the child you saw? Caius demanded. The one that was ostensibly more than human?Irina peered at us, examining Renesmee for the first time since entering the clearing. Her head tilted to the side, confusion crossed her features.Well? Caius sna rled.I Im not sure, she said, her tone perplexed.Caiuss hand twitched as if he wanted to slap her again. What do you mean? he said in a steely whisper.Shes not the same, but I hypothesize its the same child. What I mean is, shes changed. This child is bigger than the one I saw, but Caiuss furious gasp crackled through his suddenly bared teeth, and Irina broke off without finishing. Aro flitted to Caiuss side and put a restraining hand on his shoulder.Be composed, brother. We have time to sort this out. No need to be hasty.With a sullen expression, Caius turned his back on Irina.Now, sweetling, Aro said in a warm, sugary murmur. Show me what youre trying to say. He held his hand out to the bewildered vampire.Uncertainly, Irina took his hand. He held hers for only vanadium seconds.You see, Caius? he said. Its a simple matter to get what we need.Caius didnt answer him. From the corner of his eye, Aro glanced once at his audience, his mob, and then turned back to Carlisle.And so we h ave a mystery on our hands, it seems. It would appear the child has grown. Yet Irinas first memory was clearly that of an immortal child. Curious.Thats exactly what Im trying to explain, Carlisle said, and from the change in his voice, I could shot at his relief. This was the pause we had pinned all our nebulous hopeson.I feltno relief. I waited, almost numb with rage, for the layers of strategy Edward had promised.Carlisle held out his hand again.Aro hesitated for a moment. I would rather have the explanation from someone more central to the story, my friend. Am I wrong to assume that this breach was not of your making?Therewas no breach.Be that as it may, I will have all(prenominal) facet of the truth. Aros feathery voice hardened. And the best way to get that is to have the evidence directly from your talented son. He abandoned his head in Edwards direction. As the child clings to his newborn mate, Im assuming Edward is involved.Of course he wanted Edward. Once he could see in to Edwards mind, he would know all our thoughts. Except mine.Edward turned to quickly kiss my forehead and Renesmees, not meeting my eyes. Then he strode across the snow-clad field of study, clapping Carlisle on the shoulder as he passed. I heard a low whimper from behind me Esmes terror breaking through.The red haze I saw around the Volturi army flamed brighter than before, i could not bear to watch Edward cross the empty white spacealone but I alsocould not endure to have Renesmee one step closer to our adversaries. The opposing needs tore at me I was frozen so tightly it felt like my bones might shatter from the pressure of it.I saw Jane smile as Edward crossed the midpoint in the distance between us, when he was closer to them than he was to us.That smug little smile did it. My vexation peaked, higher even than the raging bloodlust Id felt the moment the wolves had committed to this doomed fight. I could taste madness on my tongue I felt it flow through me like a tidal wav e of pure power. My muscles tightened, and I acted automatically. I threw my shield with all the force in my mind, flung it across the impossible sweep oar of the field ten times my best distance like a javelin. My breath rushed out in a huff with the exertion.The shield blew out from me in a bubble of sheer energy, a mushroom cloud of liquid steel. It pulsed like alivingthing I could feel it, from the apex to the edges.There was no restrict to the elastic fabric now in that instant of raw force, I saw that the backlash Id felt before was of my own making I had been clinging to that out of sight part of me in self-defense, subconsciously unwilling to let it go. Now I set it free, and my shield exploded a good fifty yards out from me effortlessly, winning only a fraction of my concentration. I could feel it flex like just another muscle, obedient to my will. I pushed it, shaped it to a long, pointed oval. Everything underneath the whippy iron shield was suddenly a part of me I could feel the life force of everything it covered like points of bright heat, dazzling sparks of light contact me. I thrust the shield forward the length of the clearing, and exhaled in relief when I felt Edwards brilliant light within my protection. I held there, contracting this new muscle so that it closely surrounded Edward, a thin but unbreakable sheet between his body and our enemies.Barely a second had passed. Edward was still walking to Aro. Everything had changed absolutely, but no one had noticed the explosion except for me. A startled laugh burst through my lips. I felt the others glancing at me and saw Jacobs big black eye roll down to stare at me like Id lost my mind.Edward stopped a few steps away from Aro, and I realized with some chagrin that though I certainly could, I should not prevent this exchange from happening. This was the point of all our preparations getting Aro to hear our side of the story. It was almost physically painful to do it, but reluctantly I pulled my shield back and left Edward exposed again. The laughing mood had vanished. I focused totally on Edward, ready to shield him instantly if something went wrong.Edwards chin came up arrogantly, and he held his hand out to Aro as if he were conferring a nifty honor. Aro seemed only delighted with his attitude, but his delight was not universal. Renata fluttered nervously in Aros shadow. Caiuss scowl was so deep it looked like his papery, translucent skin would rumple permanently. Little Jane showed her teeth, and beside her Alecs eyes narrowed in concentration. I guessed that he was ready, like me, to act at a seconds notice.Aro closed the distance without pause and real, what did he have to fear? The hulking shadows of the lighter gray cloaks the brawny fighters like Felix were but a few yards away. Jane and her burning benefaction could throw Edward on the ground, writhing in agony. Alec could blind and deafen him before he could take a step in Aros direction. No on e knew that I had the power to stop them, not even Edward.With an untroubled smile, Aro took Edwards hand. His eyes snapped shut at once, and then his shoulders hunched under the onslaught of information.Every secret thought, every strategy, every insight everything Edward had heard in the minds around him during the last month was now Aros. And further back every vision of Alices, every quiet moment with our family, every picture in Renesmees head, every kiss, every touch between Edward and me All of that was Aros now, too.I hissed with frustration, and the shield roiled with my irritation, shifting its shape and contracting around our side.Easy, Bella, Zafrina whispered to me.I clenched my teeth together.Aro continued to concentrate on Edwards memories. Edwards head bowed, too, the muscles in his neck locking tight as he read back again everything that Aro took from him, and Aros response to it all.This two-party but unequal conversation continued long enough that even the gua rd grew uneasy. Low murmurs ran through the line until Caius barked a sharp order for silence. Jane was pass on forward like she couldnt help herself, and Renatas face was rigid with distress. For a moment, I examined this powerful shield that seemed so panicky and weak though she was useful to Aro, I could tell she was no warrior. It was not her job to fight but to protect. There was no bloodlust in her. Raw as I was, I knew that if this were between her and me, I would obliterate her.I refocused as Aro straightened, his eyes flashing open, their expression awed and wary. He did not release Edwards hand.Edwards muscles loosened ever so slightly.You see? Edward asked, his velvet voice calm.Yes, I see, indeed, Aro agreed, and amazingly, he sounded almost amused. I doubt whether any two among gods or mortals have ever seen quite so clearly.The disciplined faces of the guard showed the same disbelief I felt.You have given me much to ponder, young friend, Aro continued. Much more than I expected. Still he did not release Edwards hand, and Edwards tense up stance was that of one who listens.Edward didnt answer.May I meet her? Aro asked almost pleaded with sudden eager interest. I never dreamed of the existence of such a thing in all my centuries. What an addition to our historiesWhat is this about, Aro? Caius snapped before Edward could answer. Just the question had me pulling Renesmee around into my arms, cradling her protectively against my chest.Something youve never dreamed of, my practical friend. Take a moment to ponder, for the justice we intended to deliver no longer applies.Caius hissed in surprise at his words.Peace, brother, Aro cautioned soothingly.This should have been good news these were the words wed been hoping for, the reprieve wed never reallythought possible. Aro had listened to the truth. Aro had admitted that the law had not been broken.But my eyes were riveted on Edward, and I saw the muscles in his back tighten. I replayed in my head Ar os instruction for Caius to ponder, and heard the double meaning.Will you introduce me to your daughter? Aro asked Edward again.Caius was not the only one who hissed at this new revelation.Edward nodded reluctantly. And yet, Renesmee had won over so many others. Aro always seemed the draw of the ancients. If he were on her side, could the others act against us?Aro still gripped Edwards hand, and he now answered a question that the rest of us had not heard.I think a compromise on this one point is certainly acceptable, under the circumstance. We will meet in the middle.Aro released his hand. Edward turned back toward us, and Aro joined him, throwing one arm nervelessly over Edwards shoulder like they were the best of friends all the while maintaining contact with Edwards skin. They began to cross the field back to our side.The entire guard fell into step behind them. Aro raised a hand negligently without looking at them.Hold, my dear ones. Truly, they mean us no harm if we are pea ceable.The guard reacted to this more openly than before, with snarls and hisses of protest, but held their position. Renata, clinging closer to Aro than ever, whimpered in anxiety.Master, she whispered.Dont fret, my love, he responded. All is well.Perhaps you should bring a few members of your guard with us, Edward suggested. It will make them more comfortable.Aro nodded as if this was a wise observation he should have thought of himself. He snapped his fingers twice. Felix, Demetri.The two vampires were at his side instantaneously, looking precisely the same as the last time Id met them. Both were tall and dark-haired, Demetri hard and lean as the blade of a sword, Felix hulking and menacing as an iron-spiked cudgel.The five of them stopped in the middle of the snowy field.Bella, Edward called. Bring Renesmee and a few friends.I took a deep breath. My body was tight with opposition. The idea of taking Renesmee into the center of the conflict But I rely Edward. He would know if Ar o was planning any treachery at this point.Aro had three protectors on his side of the summit, so I would bring two with me. It took me only a second to decide.Jacob? Emmett? I asked quietly. Emmett, because he would be dying to go. Jacob, because he wouldnt be able to bear being left behind.Both nodded. Emmett grinned.I crossed the field with them flanking me. I heard another rumble from the guard as they saw my choices clearly, they did not trust the werewolf. Aro lifted his hand, waving away their protest again.Interesting familiarity you keep, Demetri murmured to Edward.Edward didnt respond, but a low growl slipped through Jacobs teeth.We stopped a few yards from Aro. Edward ducked under Aros arm and quickly joined us, taking my hand.For a moment we faced each other in silence. Then Felix greeted me in a low aside.Hello again, Bella. He grinned cockily while still tracking Jacobs every twitch with his peripheral vision.I smiled wryly at the mountainous vampire. Hey, Felix.Fel ix chuckled. You look good. Immortality suits you.Thanks so much.Youre welcome. Its too bad He let his comment trail off into silence, but I didnt need Edwards gift to imagine the end. Its too bad were going to kill you in a sec.Yes, too bad, isnt it? I murmured.Felix winked.Aro paid no attention to our exchange. He leaned his head to one side, fascinated. I hear her strange heart, he murmured with an almost musical lilt to his words. I smell her strange scent. Then his hazy eyes shifted to me. In truth, young Bella, immortality does become you most extraordinarily, he said. It is as if you were designed for this life.I nodded once in acknowledgment of his flattery.You liked my gift? he asked, eyeing the pendant I wore.Its beautiful, and very, very generous of you. Thank you. I probably should have sent a note.Aro laughed delightedly. Its just a little something I had lying around. I thought it might complement your new face, and so it does.I heard a little hiss from the center of t he Volturi line. I glanced over Aros shoulder.Hmm. It seemed Jane wasnt happy about the fact that Aro had given me a present.Aro cleared his throat to reclaim my attention. May I greet your daughter, lovely Bella? he asked sweetly.This was what wed hoped for, I reminded myself. trash the urge to take Renesmee and run for it, I walked two slow steps forward. My shield rippled out behind me like a cape, protecting the rest of my family while Renesmee was left exposed. It felt wrong, horrible.Aro met us, his face beaming.But shes exquisite, he murmured. So like you and Edward. And then louder, Hello, Renesmee.Renesmee looked at me quickly. I nodded.Hello, Aro, she answered formally in her high, ringing voice.Aros eyes were bemused.What is it? Caius hissed from behind. He seemed infuriated by the need to ask.Half mortal, half immortal, Aro announced to him and the rest of the guard without turning his enthralled gaze from Renesmee. Conceived so, and carried by this newborn while she wa s still human.Impossible, Caius scoffed.Do you think theyve fooled me, then, brother? Aros expression was greatly amused, but Caius flinched. Is the heartbeat you hear a trickery as well?Caius scowled, looking as chagrined as if Aros gentle questions had been blows.Calmly and carefully, brother, Aro cautioned, still smiling at Renesmee. I know well how you love your justice, but there is no justice in acting against this unique little one for her parentage. And so much to learn, so much to learn I know you dont have my enthusiasm for compile histories, but be tolerant with me, brother, as I add a chapter that stuns me with its improbability. We came expecting only justice and the sadness of false friends, but look what we have gained rather A new, bright knowledge of ourselves, our possibilities.He held out his hand to Renesmee in invitation. But this was not what she wanted. She leaned away from me, stretching upward, to touch her fingertips to Aros face.Aro did not react with sh ock as almost everyone else had reacted to this performance from Renesmee he was as used to the flow of thought and memory from other minds as Edward was.His smile widened, and he sighed in satisfaction. Brilliant, he whispered.Renesmee relaxed back into my arms, her little face very serious.Please? she asked him.His smile turned gentle. Of course I have no desire to harm your loved ones, unprecedented Renesmee.Aros voice was so comforting and affectionate, it took me in for a second. And then I heard Edwards teeth grind together and, far behind us, Maggies outraged hiss at the lie.I wonder, Aro said thoughtfully, seeming unaware of the reaction to his previous words. His eyes moved unexpectedly to Jacob, and instead of the disgust the other Volturi viewed the giant wolf with, Aros eyes were filled with a longing that I did not comprehend.It doesnt work that way, Edward said, the careful neutrality gone from his suddenly harsh tone.Just an errant thought, Aro said, valuate Jacob o penly, and then his eyes moved slowly across the two lines of werewolves behind us. Whatever Renesmee had shown him, it made the wolves suddenly interesting to him.They dont belong to us, Aro. They dont follow our commands that way. Theyre here because they want to be.Jacob growled menacingly.They seem quite attached to you, though, Aro said. And your young mate and your family. Loyal His voice caressed the word softly.Theyre committed to protecting human life, Aro. That makes them able to coexist with us, but but with you. Unless youre rethinking your lifestyle.Aro laughed merrily. Just an errant thought, he repeated. You well know how that is. We none of us canentirely control our subconscious desires.Edward grimaced. I do know how that is. And I also know the difference between that kind of thought and the kind with a purpose behind it. It could never work, Aro.Jacobs vast head turned in Edwards direction, and a faint whine slipped from between his teeth.Hes intrigued with the i dea of guard dogs, Edward murmured back.There was one second of dead silence, and then the sound of the furious snarls ripping from the entire pack filled the giant clearing.There was a sharp bark of command from Sam, I guessed, though I didnt turn to look and the complaint broke off into ominous quiet.I suppose that answers that question, Aro said, laughing again. This lot has picked its side.Edward hissed and leaned forward. I clutched at his arm, wondering what could be in Aros thoughts that would make him react so violently, while Felix and Demetri slipped into crouches in synchronization. Aro waved them off again. They all returned to their former posture, Edward included.So much to discuss, Aro said, his tone suddenly that of an inundated businessman. So much to decide. If you and your furry protector will apologia me, my dear Cullens, I must confer with my brothers.