The Phantom Wolf

Chapter 114 (Gaining Followers)

*3rd Person POV*

"When Aro wants someone from a coven, it's never long before evidence turns up that proves that the coven in question committed some sort of crime." Eleazar said.

Everyone listened to the vampire speak, worry and realisation was etched onto their faces.

Bree tucked herself into Pearl's side. Talk of the Volturi unnerved her greatly. So she sought comfort in her mate's embrace.

Pearl stood tall in the room. Listening intently to what Eleazar was saying, but she refused to take her eyes off of the new arrivals. They were too eager for a fight, and they didn't seem to care about her family at all. That alone, made them untrustworthy.

Vladimir and Stefan shifted uncomfortably under the hybrid's gaze. Her natural presence radiated power and authority. The two vampires weren't too pleased to have gotten on her bad side. But they had absolutely no intention of leaving. They wanted the Volturi to fall, and this group, seemed like their best chance to make that happen.

"It happens so rarely, I never realised it was a pattern." Eleazar continued.

Carlisle took over. "Apparently, he always pardons one person whose thoughts he claims are repentant."

Eleazar then added on. "This person always has an ability, and they're always given a place within the guard."

When Edward spoke up, Pearl finally shifted her attention to her mind reading brother. Giving Vladimir and Stefan a brief relief from her piercing gaze. "This is all about Alice. He has no one like her."

Bella then had a realisation. "Which is why she left."

Pearl bit back her tongue. She wanted to clarify, she wanted to defend her sister and brother for their actions, but they had made her promise to stay silent about the true meaning behind their departure.

Emmet asked in a confused tone, "Why does he need witnesses?"

Carlisle and Esme's latest witness, Alistair, spoke up. "To spread the word that justice has been served. After he slaughters an entire coven."

A deep protective growl enveloped the room, replacing the solemn silence that hung in the air upon Alistair's comment. Pearl tucked Bree further into her side, as she let her growl finish.

Amun walked over to the members of his coven. "Benjamin, Tia we're leaving." He announced. Clearly wanting no part in what was inevitably going to happen.

Edward immediately spoke up. "And where will you go? What makes you think they'll be satisfied with Alice? What's to stop them from going after Benjamin next? Or Zafrina or Kate or anyone else with a gift? Anyone they want. Their goal isn't punishment, it's power. It's acquisition. Carlisle might not ask you to fight, but I will. For the sake of my family, but also for yours. And for the way you want to live."

A heavy silence hung in the room as everyone took in what Edward had asked of them.

Jacob looked over to Pearl with determination in his eyes. Pearl nodded at him and broke the silence. "The packs will fight."

Jacob added on, "We've never been afraid of vampires."

Tanya and the other members of her coven stood up. "We will fight."

Garret stepped forwards, his eyes were on Kate. "This won't be the first time I've fought a king's rule." He spoke assuredly.

"We'll join you." Benjamin spoke up from beside his mate.

"No." Amun tried to interject.

"I will do the right thing, Amun. You may do as you please." He answered, going against his coven leader.