The Volturi are a coven of vampires that serve as the ruling body of the vampire world. They are based in Volterra, Italy, and are considered to be the most powerful and influential vampire coven in the world.
Here are the key characteristics and roles of the Volturi in the series:
1. Ancient and Powerful:
The Volturi are one of the oldest and strongest vampire covens in existence. They have existed for several thousand years and have accumulated immense power and influence over the vampire world.
2. Leaders of the vampire world:
The Volturi act as the governing force and law enforcers for the global vampire community. They set and enforce the vampire laws, ensuring that vampires live in secrecy and avoid conflicts with humans, which could expose the existence of vampires to the world.
3. Hierarchy:
The Volturi have a strict hierarchical structure, with the three vampire leaders known as the "Volturi leaders" or "Volturi triumvirate" at the top. These leaders are Aro, Marcus, and Caius.
4. Powers:
Each member of the Volturi possesses unique vampiric powers beyond standard vampire abilities. Aro has the power of telepathy, which allows him to read minds. Marcus has the ability to sense the relationships and emotions between people, while Caius has exceptional combat skills and is known for his ruthless nature.
5. The Guard:
The Volturi are protected by an elite guard of vampires called the "Volturi Guard." These vampires are handpicked for their exceptional skills, strength, and loyalty. They serve as the enforcers of the Volturi's laws and carry out their orders without question.
6. Enforcement of vampire laws:
The Volturi are responsible for enforcing vampire laws, such as the prohibition of creating new vampires without permission and exposing the existence of vampires to humans. They use various methods to punish those who break the rules, including destruction, imprisonment, and excommunication.
7. Allies and Enemies:
The Volturi have a complex network of allies and enemies among vampire covens worldwide. They form alliances with certain covens to maintain their power and influence but are also feared and respected by other vampires.
8. Relationship with the Cullen family:
In the "Twilight" series, the Volturi play a crucial role in the lives of the Cullen family, particularly Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. The Cullens are aware of the Volturi's power and authority and try to avoid attracting their attention while living in Forks, Washington.
Overall, the Volturi represent a powerful and enigmatic force in the vampire world, shaping its political landscape and maintaining the delicate balance between vampires and humans.