The Twilight Saga 4: Breaking Dawn 36. Bloodlust

They came with pageantry, with a kind of beauty.They came in a frozen, formal shaping. They moved to ramher, however it was non a march they f wiped tabu(a)(p)ed in perfect synchronicity from the trees a dark, un disordered shape that beed to hover a a couple of(prenominal) inches above the white snow, so smooth was the advance.The offer m experienting was gray the color darkened with each line of bodies until the heart of the formation was deepest black. Every face was cowled, wispy. The faint brushing sound of their feet was so level(p) it was bid music, a complicated beat that never faltered.At rough sign I did non see or perhaps in that location was no sign, only(prenominal) millennia of practice the configuration folded eruptward. The motion was to a fault stiff, too squ ar to resemble the commencement of a f lower-rankinger, though the color suggested that it was the opening of a fan, graceful only very angular. The gray-cloaked figures interpenetrate t o the flanks part the darker forms surged notwithstanding now anterior in the center, each movement closely controlled.Their progress was in arrears merely deliberate, with no hurry, no tightness, no apprehension. It was the pace of the invincible.This was some my old nightmare. The only slightg lacking was the gloating desire Id seen on the faces in my dream the smiles of vindictive joy. Thus far, the Volturi were too disciplined to show both emotion at either. They too showed no surprise or set nearly at the collection of vampires that waited for them here a collection that waitressed fulminantly disorganize and unprepared in comparison. They showed no surprise at the giant animal that stood in our midst.I couldnt serve counting. in that location were thirty-deuce of them. Even if you did non count the two drifting, waifish black-cloaked figures in the very keyst matchless, who I took to be the wives their saved position suggesting that they would not b e involved in the attack we were tacit outnumbered. There were estimable nineteen of us who would fight, and wherefore s eve more than(prenominal) to abide as we 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 hotshot flavour closer to Kate.They did come, Vladimir whispered to Stefan.The wives, Stefan snorted clog up. The entire sustain. only of them together. Its well we didnt try Volterra.And then, as if their numbers were not adequate, enchantment the Volturi late and majestic each(prenominal)y advanced, more vampires began entering the clear screw 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 on that point was the shock and even both(prenominal) anxiety as they saw the unexpected force awaiting them. and th at concern passed chop-chop they were secure in their overwhelming numbers, secure in their position crumb the unstopp subject Volturi force. Their features re glum to the expression theyd worn ahead wed surprised them.It was easy replete to understand their mindset the faces were that explicit. This was an angry mob, whipped to a frenzy and slavering for justice. I did not fully realize the vampire worlds feeling toward the immortal tiddlerren before I read these faces.It was clear that this motley, disorganized horde more than forty vampires on the whole 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 slide fastener scarce impartiality. well-nigh looked the the likes of they hoped for more than just an opportunity to witness they wanted to help tear and burn.We didnt beget a prayer. Even if we could somehow neutralize the Volturis advantages, they could in ti me bury us in bodies. Even if we assassinateed Demetri, Jacob would not be able to out lead this.I could feel it as the said(prenominal) comprehension sink in around me. Despair weighted the air, pushing me down with more pres current than before.One vampire in the opposing force did not seem to belong to either party I recognized Irina as she hesitated in amongst the two companies, her expression unique among the otherwises. Irinas horrified scan was locked on T some(prenominal)(prenominal)as position in the front line. Edward snarled, a very low but fervent sound.Alistairwas properly, he murmured to Carlisle.I watched Carlisle glance at Edward inquiryingly.Alistair was right? Tanya whispered.They Caius and Aro come to destroy and acquire, Edward breathed near silently back only our side could hear. They contribute many layers of strategy already in place. If Irinas thrill had somehow proven to be dark, they were committed to find other discernment to take mop upen se. But they can see Renesmee now, so they are utterly sanguine about their conformation. We could still attempt to defend against their other artificial charges, but first they go to stop, to hear the truth about Renesmee. then, even lower. Which they obtain no intention of doing.Jacob gave a strange little puff up.And then, unexpectedly, two mos later, the procession did halt. The low music of perfectly synchronizedmovements turned to silence. The unflawed discipline remained unbroken the Volturi froze into absolute stillness as wiz. They stood about a coulomb yards extraneous from us.Behind me, to the sides, I heard the beating of bulky hearts, closer than before. I risked glances to the left and the right from the corners of my middleball to see what had stop the Volturi advance.The wolves had conjugated 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 knew and the whizzs Id never seen before. There were sixteen of them spaced evenly around us xvii 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 foreseen this. With so many vampires encamped in the neighborhood, a werewolf population explosion was inevitable.More children dying. I wondered why surface-to-air missile had allowed this, and then I realized he had no other choice. If any of the wolves stood with us, the Volturi would be sure to search out the rilievo. They had gambled their entire species on this stand.And we were press tucker 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 moment was the chance to sink my teeth into them, to rip their limbs from their bodies and pile them for b urning. I was so maddened I could have danced around the pyre where they roasted alive I would have laughed darn their ashes smoldered. My lips curved back automatically, and a low, fierce snarl tear up my throat from the pit of my stomach. I realized the corners of my mouth were turned up in a smile.Beside me, Zafrina and Senna echoed my hushed growl. Edward squeezed the hand he still held, cautioning me.The hindquartersed Volturi faces were still expressionless for the most part. Only two sets of eyes betrayed any emotion at all. In the very center, touching hands, Aro and Caius had prisonbreakd to evaluate, and the entire defy had paused with them, waiting for the order to wipe out. The two did not look at each other, but it was obvious 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. Like the one other time 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 surrounded by themselves and the Volturi soldiers. Only Irina hovered close behind the Volturi, just a few paces a counselling from the ancient females both fair-haired with powdery contend and filmed eyes and their two massive formguards.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 resistance, Renata? I wondered, as Eleazar had, if she would be able to repel me.But I would not risky my disembodied spirit exhausting to get to Caius or Aro. I had more alert 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 Marcus s side, flanked by Demetri on the other. Their lovely faces were smooth, giving nothing aside they wore the darkest cloaks beside the arrant(a) black of the ancients. The witch 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 mouth.Aros and Caiuss cloud-covered red eyes flickered across our line. I read disappointment in Aros face as his gaze roved over our faces again and again, facial expression for one that was missing. Chagrin tightened his lips.In that moment, 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 business, you, Eleazar, Tanya. Marcus is reading the strength of our ties to each other, looking for creaky points. The Romanians presence irritates them. Theyre worried about the f aces they dont recognize Zafrina and Senna in particular and the wolves, naturally. Theyve never been outnumbered before. Thats what stop 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 several travel ahead of our defensive line. I hated to see him alone, unprotected.He spread his arms, holding his palms up as if in distinguishing. 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 heared to Aros assessment of Carlisles spoken communication. The strain mount 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 with the line, eyebrows bring down 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 army youve assembled to kill me, and to kill my affectionately 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 fill in 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 get over his features whether it was genuine or not, I could not tell.I have not committed the crime you are here to puni sh 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. Let me explain. Again, Carlisle offered his hand.Before Aro could answer, Caius drifted swiftly forward to Aros side.So many soft-witted rules, so many unnecessary laws you create for yourself, Carlisle, the white-haired ancient hissed. How is it workable that you defend the breaking 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 t he child. Or you could just look at her, Caius. See the flush of human origin in her cheeks.Artifice Caius snapped. Where is the in former? Let her come forward He craned his neck around until he spotted Irina lingering behind the wives. You go downIrina stared at him uncomprehendingly, her face like that of individual who has not entirely arouse from a hideous nightmare. Impatiently, Caius snapped his fingers. One of the wives huge bodyguards moved to Irinas side and prodded her nearly in the back. Irina blinked twice and then walked slowly toward Caius in a daze. She halt 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 watching someone kick a dog. Tanya and Kate hissed in synchronization.Irinas body went rigid and her eyes finally focussed 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 by means of Jacobs chest.This is the child you saw? Caius demanded. The one that was obviously more than human?Irina peered at us, examining Renesmee for the first time since entering the clearing. Her head tilted to the side, confusion cross her features.Well? Caius snarled.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 selfsame(prenominal), but I think 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 threatening expression, Caius turned his back on Irina.Now, swe etling, Aro said in a warm, sugar-coated 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 five 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 have a mystery on our hands, it seems. It would appear the child has grown. Yet Irinas first reposition 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 guess at his moderation. 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 a ssume that this rape was not of your making?Therewas no breach.Be that as it may, I go away have every(prenominal) facet of the truth. Aros feathery voice big(p)ened. And the best way to get that is to have the evidence directly from your talented son. He assumption over 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 into Edwards mind, he would go all our thoughts. Except mine.Edward turned to quickly kiss my forehead and Renesmees, not realizeing my eyes. Then he strode across the snowy field, 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 brook to have Renesmee one step closer to our adversaries. The opposing needs tore at me I was frozen so tightl y 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 fury peaked, higher(prenominal) 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 hightail it through me like a tidal wave 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 unacceptable expanse 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 blossom to the edges.There was no recoil to the e blend inic 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 invisible part of me in self-defense, subconsciously unwilling to let it go. Now I set it free, and my shield explode a good fifty yards out from me effortlessly, taking 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 flexible agitate 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 border 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, assure 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 find the explosion except for me. A startled laugh burs t 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 preserve 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 express joy 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 with child(p) 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 crease permanently. Little Jane showed her teeth, and beside her Alecs eyes narr owed in concentration. I guessed that he was ready, like me, to act at a seconds notice.Aro closed the distance without pause and really, what did he have to fear? The hulking shadows of the lighter gray cloaks the tidy fighters like Felix were but a few yards away. Jane and her burning gift could establish Edward on the ground, writhing in agony. Alec could blind and deafen him before he could take a step in Aros direction. No one knew that I had the power to stop them, not even Edward.With an untroubled smile, Aro took Edwards hand. His eyes snapped turn out at once, and then his shoulders hunched under the onslaught of information.Every orphic 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 frust ration, and the shield roiled with my irritation, teddy 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 fasten tight as he read back again everything that Aro took from him, and Aros response to it all.This two-way but unequal conversation continued long enough that even the guard grew uneasy. Low murmurs ran through the line until Caius barked a cracking order for silence. Jane was edging 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 fainthearted though she was useful to Aro, I could tell she was no warrior. It was not her telephone line 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 often to ponder, young friend, Aro continued. oft more than I expected. Still he did not release Edwards hand, and Edwards tense 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 move had me pulling Renesmee around into my arms, cradling her protectively against my chest.Something youve never dreamed of, my practical friend. baffle a moment to ponder, for the justice we intended to deliver no extended 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 Aros instruction for Caius to ponder, and heard the double meaning.Will you move into 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 leader 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 via media 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 nonchalantly over Edwards shoulder like they were the best of friends all the while maintaining signature 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 peaceable.The guard reacted to this more openly than before, with snarls and hisses of objection, 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 put to work 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 hi s side instantaneously, looking barely 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 thinker of taking Renesmee into the center of the conflict But I trusted Edward. He would know if Aro 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 prot est again.Interesting company 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.Felix chuckled. You look good. Immortality suits you. conveys so much.Youre welcome. Its too big 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 financial aid 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 wish 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 the 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. Fighting the urge to take Renesmee and run for it, I walked two slow steps forward. My shield rippled out behind me like a cape, protect the rest of my family while Renesmee was left exposed. It felt wrong, horrible.Aro met us, hi s 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 was 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 successful 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 kno w you dont have my enthusiasm for collecting 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 instead A new, bright companionship 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 shock 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, unparalleled 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 shadowed hiss at the lie.I wonder, Aro said thoughtfully, seeming unaware of the reply 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 rough tone.Just an fallible thought, Aro said, appraising Jacob openly, and then his eyes moved slowly across the two lines of werewolves behind us. Whatever Renesmee had shown him, it made the wolves suddenly interest 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 addicted 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 excites them able to coexist with us, but hardly 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 idea of guard dogs, Edward murmured back.There was one second of dead silence, and then the sound of the furious snarls pull from the entire pack filled the giant clearing.There was a frizzy 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 thou ghts 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 excuse me, my dear Cullens, I must confer with my brothers.