It seems strange that Demetri couldn't carry out the task that Edward did with little effort. Was that just a stall tactic on Aro's part, or dominance thing that made Aro send him there? I would also think, that if Jane and Alec retain any human memories, that they might feel some sort of gratitude for Edward's treatment of them at the hut. Can't wait to see what happens!

Author's Response: I think he trusted Edward to be in close proximity to them. I thought of it as a bloodlust thing.

really enjoying this story.  smart writing. you've neatly sidestepped all the usual twilighted pitfalls.

great chapter! I love how well she takes it... but she always does. I've said this before, but I love this older Edward, there is definitely a more adult maturity to him that our 1918 Edward did not have. This Edward was a leader of men before he was a vampire and it shows in his character. Great job!

Author's Response: Whenever I think about how Bella would receive all the news, I just put myself in her shoes. And imagine a scenario where some smokin hot vamp chick tells me I'm everything thing she ever wanted. like... okay...sign me up. rhi -little drunk

loved it.. loved it...loved it...can't wait to see what Edward wants with Bella's father...yea! loved it!

wow an awesome story

Wow, interesting. This one just flowed out like water, did it. Well your prose crackles! Check this out:

She sits facing him a few feet away, back against bark, and the silence singes their nerves. Edward breaks it, his voice cracking through air like the frayed edge of a live-wire.

*

Over the course of their conversation, the sun has squatted on the horizon. The orange orb has swelled under earth's atmospheric distortion, popped out from under the ever-present clouds, and the fading sunlight writhes on the salty chop.

And --

He may be resigned to the shadows, but he is a creature of the light; the peculiars of circumstance may have curved his choices, but Edward emerged with a clear and profound understanding of what is moral and the way he must live to satisfy his conscience. As they watch the sunset, they both know this. Bella's perceptive mind has cleaved to his heart, and she sees him for what he is: a man, like any other, fighting an ancient struggle to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.

The humor is also delightful:

 

He sounds like Legolas!! I died at that!

 

And Alice: Car - 750m north-northeast at Chevron. Key on front passenger wheel. Feed her.

So now he has to meet her father. This is going to be interesting, since Charlie must know him as the AP Biology teacher at school. Quitting his job so he can date a 17-year old student who just happens to be Charlie's daughter, that's gonna go over like a lead balloon.

But not impossible, apparently ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZSkM-QEeUg

Author's Response: Well, I think it's safe to say I need a full-body ego check after that review. Thank you. And I really can't wait to show you the conversation b/w Charlie and Edward. Should be a doozy. BTW- when is your next chapter up? I've been thinking about it on and off since the last chapter. Literally can't wait. rhi great video, too.

That was great. Super excited for more.

I love Bella's observation that he sounds like Legolas! Even though that's something I can't quite picture...

Hmm, Edward resigning. It takes care of the problem of him and Bella being together. But something tells me that the talk with Charlie isn't going to go as he planned. Don't know why...

Can't wait to read more!

Author's Response: I envisioned his language- Caledonian- as one with a smooth syntax. Full of soft consonants, heavy on the vowels and the closest approximation of what I pictured is Elvish from the LOTR. As for the fatherly confrontation, It should be a fun conversation. Charlie is an unpredictable dude. But something tells me that the two of them will find some common ground. rhi

Yes, lovely ... one problem, however, is that the switch from distant past to present kills the romance mood a little. I suppose that there is nothing much to be done, and I am very keen at knowing Edward past

Author's Response: I know. Bummer right? But ultimately, I think it's the right way to go. I've still got a lot of story to tell... Thanks for the review. rhi

LOVE THAT HE QUIT HIS JOB JUST LIKE THAT.

Wonder what he is going to say to her dad.

Author's Response: I didn't really see any other option. Could you teach a class with the love of your life sitting in the back row making goo-goo eyes at you? I know I couldn't. Thanks for reviewing. rhi

*Looks at screen in stunned silence* Wow! Edward doesn't beat around the bush does he? He put it all out there and it was fantastic! I can't fathom why he doesn't like his tattoos much but they sound fascinating...hmm a tatooed Edward...yummy. I am so excited! He really is going to tell her his story; deliriously excited!

Author's Response: He was only worried that Bella, a young innocent girl, wouldn't appreciate his tattoos. If anything he feels disconnected from them. Hope you like the new chapter. thanks for reviewing

*Swooning sigh...* They kissed! Oh I am so happy...I am relieved Bella wasn't totally crushed by the vehicle. I loved how you slipped that in...it was fantastic. Things seem to be going quite well between Bella and Edward...wink wink

Awww it is just heartwarming to see Edward falling so hard and so fast. I am so happy for him. Bella is going to be the recipient of over a thousand years of pent up love and longing...dang what a lucky girl...sigh