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WHEN IT IS TIME FOR THE VOLTURI TO ARRIVE. the cullen's and their witnesses, all gather are met in a large, snow-covered field. Garrett stands next to Kate as they watch and wait
Garrett glanced at Kate across the firelight. "If we live through this, I'll follow you anywhere, woman."
"Now you tell me," Kate smirked, eyes glinting.
Before anyone could respond, the sound of footsteps echoed faintly through the snow, measured, deliberate.
"They're coming," Edward said quietly.
I instinctively reached for Jasper's hand. He squeezed back, steady and reassuring.
"The Redcoats are coming! The Redcoats are coming!" Garrett muttered, his humor cutting through the tension.
The shadows shifted and then, emerging from the mist, came Aro and the Volturi. Their ranks stretched endlessly, far outnumbering us and our witnesses.
"They're looking for Alice," Edward said under his breath.
But then the forest stirred again. The wolves appeared, massive and silent, joining our side. Jacob, in his wolf form, padded up beside Bella, Edward, and Renesmee.
The Volturi formed a perfect line across from us, crimson eyes glowing. Carlisle stepped forward first, calm but resolute.
I focused, channeling my power toward him, and a faint red aura shimmered around his form. He looked stronger protected. Esme caught my eye and gave me a soft, grateful smile.
Carlisle's voice was even. "Aro, let us discuss things as we once did in a civilized manner."
"Fair words, Carlisle," Aro replied smoothly, "but rather misplaced, given the army you've assembled."
"No laws have been broken," Carlisle said firmly.
Caius sneered. "Do not treat us as fools. We see the child."
"She is not an immortal!" Carlisle countered. "These witnesses can attest to that or see for yourself the flush of human blood in her cheeks."
"Artifice," Caius spat.
Aro raised a hand. "I will hear the truth from someone closer to the story. Edward. The child clings to your newborn mate. You must be involved."
Bella's shield shimmered faintly as Edward walked forward. Aro took his hand, reading his thoughts. His expression shifted from suspicion to wonder.
"I'd like to meet her," Aro said.
Edward turned, nodding to Bella and Renesmee. Emmett joined them as they walked forward. I started to follow, but Jasper's hand caught my forearm.
I looked back at him, forehead resting against his. "It's okay," I whispered. He let me go.
Aro's eyes lit up when Renesmee spoke. "Hello, Aro."
