Breaking Dawn - Stephenie Meyer [215]
Why did Alistair go? I whispered.
No one can be positive; he didnt leave a note. From his mutters, its been clear that he thinks a fight is inevitable. Despite his demeanor, he actually does care too much for Carlisle to stand with the Volturi. I suppose he decided the danger was too much. Edward shrugged.
Though our conversation was clearly just between the two of us, of course everyone could hear it. Eleazar answered Edwards comment like it had been meant for all.
From the sound of his mumblings, it was a bit more than that. We havent spoken much of the Volturi agenda, but Alistair worried that no matter how decisively we can prove your innocence, the Volturi will not listen. He thinks they will find an excuse to achieve their goals here.
The vampires glanced uneasily at one another. The idea that the Volturi would manipulate their own sacrosanct law for gain was not a popular idea. Only the Romanians were composed, their small half-smiles ironic. They seemed amused at how the others wanted to think well of their ancient enemies.
Many low discussions began at the same time, but it was the Romanians I listened to. Maybe because the fair-haired Vladimir kept shooting glances in my direction.
I do so hope Alistair was right about this, Stefan murmured to Vladimir. No matter the outcome, word will spread. Its time our world saw the Volturi for what theyve become. Theyll never fall if everyone believes this nonsense about them protecting our way of life.
At least when we ruled, we were honest about what we were, Vladimir replied.
Stefan nodded. We never put on white hats and called ourselves saints.
Im thinking the time has come to fight, Vladimir said. How can you imagine well ever find a better force to stand with? Another chance this good?
Nothing is impossible. Maybe someday-
Weve been waiting for fifteen hundred years, Stefan. And theyve only gotten stronger with the years. Vladimir paused and looked at me again. He showed no surprise when he saw that I was watching him, too. If the Volturi win this conflict, they will leave with more power than they came with. With every conquest they add to their strengths. Think of what that newborn alone could give them-he jerked his chin toward me-and she is barely discovering her gifts. And the earth-mover. Vladimir nodded toward Benjamin, who stiffened. Almost everyone was eavesdropping on the Romanians now, like me. With their witch twins they have no need of the illusionist or the fire touch. His eyes moved to Zafrina, then Kate.
Stefan looked at Edward. Nor is the mind reader is exactly necessary. But I see your point. Indeed, they will gain much if they win.
More than we can afford to have them gain, wouldnt you agree?
Stefan sighed. I think I must agree. And that means
That we must stand against them while there is still hope.
If we can just cripple them, even, expose them
Then, someday, others will finish the job.
And our long vendetta will be repaid. At last.
They locked eyes for a moment and then murmured in unison. It seems the only way.
So we fight, Stefan said.
Though I could see that they were torn, self- preservation warring with revenge, the smile they exchanged was full of anticipation.
We fight, Vladimir agreed.
I suppose it was a good thing; like Alistair, I was sure the battle was impossible to avoid. In that case, two more vampires fighting on our side could only help. But the Romanians decision still made me shudder.
We will fight, too, Tia said, her usually grave voice more solemn than ever. We believe the Volturi will overstep their authority. We have no wish to belong to them. Her eyes lingered on her mate.
Benjamin grinned and threw an impish glance toward the Romanians. Apparently, Im a hot commodity. It appears I have to win the right to be free.
This wont be the first time Ive fought to keep myself from a kings rule, Garrett said in a teasing tone. He walked over and clapped Benjamin on the back. Heres to freedom from oppression.
We stand with Carlisle, Tanya said. And we fight