𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑽𝒐𝒍𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒊 𝑸𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝟏𝟒

It has now been a full month since Rosalie's passing. Following the war, the Cullens decided to leave their family name behind and align themselves with the Volturi. Emmet has been gradually piecing his life back together after the immense loss of his mate. While he may not be the same person he once was, it is a relief to see that he is not a shell of his former self anymore. A connection between Marcus and Emmet formed in the aftermath of Rose's passing, stemming from their shared experience of loss and grief. Despite this development, it remains painfully evident that Rosalie's presence lingers among us, forever etched in our memories and hearts.

But what continues to haunt me, and likely will for eternity, is the lingering sense of "almost." We were so close to saving Rosalie, yet fate had other plans. The tormenting thought of what could have been, the potential for a different outcome, is a constant ache that gnaws at my soul. Thus, we find ourselves in a perpetual state of yearning, forever longing for a different conclusion. The void left by Rosalie's departure will forever remain unfilled, a constant reminder of how fragile and unpredictable life can be, even for an immortal. Though time may pass and wounds may heal, the imprints she has left on our lives, both in her physical presence and her absence, shall remain indelible. And so we carry on, cherishing the memories we were privileged to share while mourning the "almost" that eluded our grasp.

My thoughts were abruptly shattered by a faint yet distinct knock that pierced the serene stillness. I tore my eyes from the book I forgot I was reading, allowing my gaze to wander in the direction of the origin of the noise. The double doors that guarded the library's hallowed interior suddenly became the center of my attention. The doors slowly swung open, revealing the unexpected presence of Aro, Marcus, and Caius entering the room, accompanied by an unfamiliar male vampire. I couldn't help but study the new arrival with curiosity and apprehension. Towering at an impressive height of 6'1", he possessed a striking appearance, not as striking as my mates though. His jet-black hair cascaded elegantly, confidently framing his chiseled features. It was his piercing, golden eyes that caught my immediate attention, reminiscent of the once-familiar gazes of the Cullens. Complemented by a complexion as pale as freshly fallen snow, his skin bore a delicate olive undertone.

As the sound of Aro's clapping hands echoed through the library, my attention was drawn to him. I watched as he stood a few feet away from me, his regal stature magnifying his authority. I gracefully rose from my seat and made my way toward my kings. I shifted my weight forward, feeling the balls of my feet rise ever so slightly off the ground, and gently pecked each of their lips, a gesture brimming with affection. "What are you doing here?" A smile adorned my face as I looked into Aro's eyes, his warmth resonating in his reciprocated smile and widening grin. "Your gift holds immense power considering it manifested while you're still human yet we know nothing of it, this led me to summon a vampire known for his ability identification, my sweet." This unknown vampire, who had been ordered by Aro's wave to move to us, held the key to discovering the mystery surrounding my gift.

With an air of grace and elegance, the male respectfully inclined his head in a genteel bow. His smooth and melodious voice echoed through the library as he introduced himself. "I am Eleazar Denali, my queen," he declared, his words carrying a hint of regality and distinction. "It's a pleasure," I say, a genuine smile illuminating my features. "The pleasure is all mine," he captured my hand delicately in his and raised it to his lips. Amidst this display, a sudden wave of jealousy emanated from Caius, causing a growl to rumble from his chest. I discreetly withdrew my hand from Eleazer's grasp, careful not to offend him. Sensing the tension between Caius and Eleazer, Aro swiftly interceded, positioning himself between the two. His charismatic presence imposed a calming effect, like a soothing balm on a wounded soul. "Ah, dear Eleazar, why don't you tell us about Alexis' gift?" Aro's voice was laced with intrigue and curiosity. His piercing gaze locked onto Eleazer's, urging him to divulge the intricacies of my gift.

"Well," Eleazer began, his voice filled with interest. "she doesn't possess just any ordinary gift. She's a phoenix." The words hung in the air, causing a momentary silence to befall the group. Caius, clearly in a bad mood already, snapped harshly, "Obviously, that's her last name." Eleazer's eyes widened, clearly stunned by the revelation. "You're saying she's from the Phoenix bloodline?" he exclaimed, unable to contain his surprise. Marcus chimed in with his question. "If you didn't mean her last name, I'm assuming you were referring to the mythical bird, correct?" he inquired, seeking clarification. "Yes, my king, and if she's truly a Phoenix, then this goes far deeper than you could have ever imagined."

Curiosity peaked within me, desperate to understand how he seemed to know information about my bloodline. "How did you come to know all of this?" I couldn't help but ask, my voice tinged with awe and disbelief. I had a feeling this wasn't just his gift. Eleazer paused for a moment, contemplating how best to explain his knowledge. "I knew your grandmother since she was a child; I know all about your bloodline and what you can do." Aro let a giggle slip, his excitement evident on his face. "Fascinating! What can my sweet Alexis do?"

Eleazer cleared his throat before he began, " I will try to make this explanation as short and understandable as possible," He shifted his gaze between Aro and me. "Pure-blooded Phoenixes possess the capability to generate intense flames that emanate from various parts of their bodies, or even from their entire being. Their mastery over fire allows them to manipulate this element effortlessly, demonstrating an unparalleled command over nature itself. Not only that but they can transform themselves into either a man or a woman, ensuring the continuity of their lineage. The concept of sexual reproduction takes a twist, as pure-blooded Phoenixes can impregnate themselves regardless of their chosen gender. The moment of climax holds a profound significance for them, it resembles the experience of releasing inside a vagina even if that Phoenix is a male and their partner is female. They'll be able to reproduce regardless of their partner's species, be it a human or a vampire." The kings and I found ourselves utterly flabbergasted by this information.