Chapter 167

• I can feel that Edward is nervous about this and perhaps even a little scared, I am as well, but it's as though the Earth has felt our insecurities and as soon as I open my connection to it, all the doubts and nerves are swiftly washed away. Our bodies are lovingly wrapped into a warm and comforting blanket of heat and I feel safe and strong. The connection I have to the Earth feels just as intense as on previous occasions, but in a strange way it also feels very different at the same time. It takes me a moment to locate what is different this time around and soon it dawns on me, I'm not alone. I can vividly feel Edward's presence with me every step of the way. I can't see him physically, but I can sense that he is with me as his presence showers me with confidence and strength. It's an unfamiliar feeling, but it's like I can physically feel how he steadies me and keeps me grounded as the Earth tries to pull me in deeper.
• "Good, Bella, stay focused," I hear vaguely and feel myself look around to find the source. Soon I realize that the words of encouragement are coming from Aro and although I can't see or feel him, the Earth is allowing his voice to break through and join us. The voice is growing weaker though and I know I won't be able to hear it for very long.
• It feels as if I've completely lost all contact with the real world and been sucked into this strange new world that I'm still getting used to. All of my senses are completely taken over by my connection to the Earth. Her rich and spicy smell fills my nose, the rustling sound of life and the soft music of the wind blowing through the trees fills my ears and my mouth… The taste is unlike anything I've ever felt and I feel like my entire body has been taken over by something extremely powerful. It's a little frightening to be so completely drawn into something so all-consuming, but Edward's strong presence and Aro's voice and guidance relieves even a tiny hint of fear.