The Inauspicious Beginnings Of A Prince
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 34
The tension was thick in the throne room as Demetri escorted the prisoner in for judgement. It really hadn't taken him long to locate her but she'd posed a challenge for him just getting to her as she'd used her visions to elude him at the very last minute several times. It had been maddening, until he'd spoken to Jasper who had told him to avoid making any conscious decisions and just follow by instincts. That had worked like a charm and he'd caught her within a day.
Now here they were and it was time for Aro to read her, which had just about everyone interested. Thus far, her motivation for her deeds had been a complete mystery; one that was about to end as Aro stood, all his usual humor absent as he stared down at the petite female vampire who had caused so much upheaval in all of their lives.
"Well, well… Alice Cullen. How kind of you to join us today. Your arrival has been most anticipated."
She smirked bitterly. "I'm sure. I can't say I'm happy to be here and I'm wondering why this was even necessary. I've done nothing wrong!"
Aro circled her where she stood, one finger against his lips as he smirked. "So you say Alice, so you say, however the truth remains to be revealed. If, and this is a doubtful 'if', you are innocent of colluding with Carlisle Cullen in the attack upon our Prince and the death of my brother, King Marcus, you have nothing to fear and will be free to go within moments."
He stopped directly in front of her. "If, however, you are found to be guilty of collusion, you shall not be walking out our doors ever again." He held out a hand to her. "Shall we proceed?"
She took a step back. "I refuse! You cannot convict me based on my thoughts alone! You need solid proof! This is ridiculous!"
Aro caught Demetri's gaze and he stepped up behind Alice, taking hold of her arms as she began to struggle. Aro tsk'ed. "My dear Alice, need I remind you that your disembodied head will do quite nicely for a reading? Such a circumstance can be accomplished quite easily should it be necessary."
She ceased her struggles, her shoulders sagging in defeat as she slowly took Aro's hand. He stared off into the distance for moments, his brows rising higher and higher in shock until a scowl overtook his features as he practically threw her hand away with a scoff of disgust.
He made his way quickly to his throne where he sat and eyed her with disdain. "Take her to the dungeon Demetri and make certain that she is secure."
Demetri inclined his head. "Yes my Lord."
They left the room and Aro looked first to his brother and then his nephew, a heavy sigh escaping him as he rubbed a hand over his face. "What a mess… and such a waste due to the greed and depravity of three beings."
Caius, never the patient one, spoke. "What did you discern Aro? Do not leave us in the dark brother."
"For Alice, all her machinations began when she awoke to this life. She'd been in a mental institution when she was taken and turned. The first visions she had were of Carlisle and Edward Cullen. She knew that she would be a part of their family. She thought doing so would ultimately lead her to her life mate."
Caius leaned forward. "Did she believe that to be Jasper?"
Aro shook his head. "No, she believed her life mate to be Jasper's first son. It's why she did all she could to subtly foster Jasper's presence in forks. She also worked behind the scenes to get Jasper and Bella together and then worked to get Bella away from Jasper after she knew she was pregnant. She encouraged Edward in his obsession with Bella and the idea of a child because it fell in with her plans. Essentially, she wanted to raise her idea of the perfect mate. After Jasper killed Edward for raping Bella, she thought to get rid of Jasper so that she could more easily manipulate Bella during the pregnancy. She had planned to get rid of her completely after the birth."
Jasper sat, seemingly calm, as he let the shock of all of that slowly register before finally speaking, his voice low and laced with malice. "And the wolves? Did she help plan their attack?"
Aro rubbed his forehead with his fingers. "Yes. She encouraged Carlisle's anger and hatred toward you and gave him direction. It was he who contacted the shifters however, but at her urging."
Jasper's gaze met his father's. "It is enough to justify her destruction which I would like to carry out before my coronation tomorrow night. I don't relish the thought of her continued existence any longer than necessary. She is crafty and not worth the risk she poses, especially to my mate and child."
Both Caius and Aro agreed and it was decided that she would be destroyed as soon as the current session of court was over, with all three of them overseeing. Jasper hadn't conducted any more torture since that first session with Carlisle and he really wasn't looking forward to it either.
The vampire was still languishing in the dungeon, and that's where he would stay for the time being.
Jasper, his father and uncle had been busy preparing for the coronation and the ensuing trip to Forks to eliminate the shifters. At least, that was how Jasper had justified his avoidance of the dungeon thus far, but he knew it wouldn't last forever and he would have to confront the conflicting parts of his psyche once again. He just prayed that doing so wouldn't have lasting effects on him personally.
He rose when they finally adjourned, but paused at his father's voice. "Jasper, a word please?"
He nodded and fell into step when his father drew close as they left the throne room. "Your uncle and I thought to carry out this execution immediately. Are you ready for that?"
Jasper's brow furrowed as he glanced at his father. "Yes, why wouldn't I be?"
Caius stared straight ahead, but his voice gave away his concern. "I know that whipping Cullen bothered you more than you like to admit my son. I've been hoping that you would come to speak with me about it, but that hasn't happened yet…"
Jasper stopped and turned to his father, a muscle twitching in his jaw. "I am fine with what has taken place and I will resume a regular schedule after we return from Forks. He needs to pay for what he's done and he will. I will see to it. I have just been busy…"
"Jasper, it is not weakness to be bothered by carrying out such a brutal act, especially at such a young age. I agree that it must be done, but that doesn't mean that it has to be done by you exclusively…"
Jasper shook his head. "No! I cannot, in good conscience, order such to be done if I am not willing to do it myself! What kind of a leader would I be then? One who is not willing to get his hands dirty, but will order others to do so? That is a flaw in character that I am unwilling to foster. These are the principles that you taught me father, and I will not run from them now just because it's difficult."
Caius studied his son for moments before nodding, the pride and love he felt for his son almost overwhelming.
"I understand son, but do not fault me for wishing to take this painful burden from your shoulders."
Jasper embraced his father briefly. "I know, and I love you all the more for it. But I have to do this, even if it's a struggle. I will endeavor not to lose myself in the process and I promise to come to you if I need you."
They began walking toward the dungeon again. "Very well. That's all I ask. You are too important to me to allow you to self-destruct, no matter the cause."
Jasper smiled at his father and they began their descent into the bowels of the castle.
They found her pacing her cell as Carlisle watched, huddled in a corner, a shadow of what he once had been.
Jasper's gaze passed over his biological father briefly before settling on his purpose for being there. "Alice Cullen, you have been found guilty of high crimes against the royal family and have been sentenced to destruction to be carried out immediately. Any last words?"
She spit at Jasper's feet. "No. What's the point?"
Jasper smirked at her. "Valid question."
He motioned to the guard who stepped forward and opened the cell door. The minute he had, she made a break for it and Jasper caught her by the throat, practically hissing in her face as he held her up. "This is why you shall not exist another moment. No one harms my family and gets away with it you twisted, crazy piece of offal."
Having said that, he grasped her head and twisted, removing it cleanly and tossing it to the guard who tossed it into the furnace. He threw the body in the direction of the open furnace and watched as the rest of her was fed in by pieces until she was gone completely.
He smirked at Carlisle who had watched the entire thing. "Don't think I have forgotten you. I will be getting back to you very soon. I'll let you sit here and wonder just when that might be."
He turned and left the dungeon, following close behind his father and hearing his uncle speak as they neared the top of the stairs. "When will you be leaving for Forks?"
"Jasper and I have spoken about leaving in the early morning, after the coronation."
Once in the main hallway, Aro turned to them. "So soon? I suppose it makes sense to get it over and done with but I thought perhaps you would want a reprieve from all the upset." He eyed Jasper carefully as Jasper sighed.
"Uncle, I will tell you as I have told my father. I am fine. Yes, this is all very disturbing to deal with, but it must be done and I was raised to deal with difficult issues." He smirked at the two elder vampires. "You two are giving mother hens a run for their money lately."
Aro chuckled. "Now, there's a hint of the sarcastic nephew that I know and love and at times, would love to throttle. I was beginning to despair of ever seeing him again."
They began walking toward the royal wing of the castle and Jasper laughed softly. "You missed my sarcasm uncle? Really?"
"Well, with the absence of that along with not hearing of various sexual exploits each and every day, it was becoming quite boring around here."
Caius laughed. "Indeed, but I wouldn't count on a return of his roaming ways Aro. Bella would not be pleased, I'm sure." He smirked at his scowling son.
"Must you two talk about this?"
Aro hooted. "Yes! Consider it payback for all the times I had to smooth the ruffled feathers of guests who were greeted by the very loud sounds coming from the receptionists quarters upon their arrival to the castle!"
Jasper smirked. "I cannot help that they were all prudes, stuck in the past where sex is concerned. Not to mention it was great fun."
He froze when Bella stepped up to the open door they'd just arrived at. "What was great fun Jas?"
Both elder vampires turned to him with one brow cocked, waiting to see how he answered. "Uh, oh nothing. You look lovely today Bella. Is that a new dress?"
She took in the expressions on the faces of the two kings and narrowed her eyes at her mate. "No, it isn't. You've seen me in it before…" She held up a finger when he began to speak. "…after you got your memories back. Now, what was great fun?"
He smiled. "Oh, we were just discussing some of my exploits as a kid around the castle. That's all."
He ushered her into the door and closed it behind him as Aro and Caius looked at each other. "Nice recovery. He get's that from you brother."
Caius smirked as he walked toward his rooms. "Yes, but I don't think Bella bought it. He still has some digging to do to get out of that hole, I would say." He waved lazily. "Time for me to spend quality time with my wife. See you later brother."
~o0o~
Bella watched in silence as Jasper readied himself for his coronation. He'd been very introspective all day, and she couldn't say she blamed him. He would be a king after all was said and done and that was a huge responsibility; one that, it was obvious, he was taking very seriously.
Her eyes roamed his form, clad in the very finest custom and cut; he was breath-taking and her heart swelled with love and pride at the knowledge that he was hers.
He turned toward her just as he settled his Volturi pendant in place, holding out a hand to her. "Are you ready Bella?"
Taking his hand, she smiled up at him. "The more important question is, are you ready? You've been quiet all day and it has me a little worried."
He gave her a wan smile. "I'm fine. I've just been thinking of my uncle quite a bit, today especially since it's his throne I'll be taking." He looked down. "I only hope that I'll do his memory justice."
She cupped his cheek and kissed him softly. "I'm sure you will Jas. I'm sure he would be very proud of you, today especially. I know I am. You are an amazing person with such a great capacity to love but not only that, you have a very fair sense of justice and the courage to not only do what is right, but what is hard. There aren't many people in this world who possess those qualities, but you do."
He drew her close and kissed her. "How did I get so blessed to have such a mate as you? You are my rock Bella and I love you so much."
She grinned up at him. "I am pretty fuck-awesome aren't I?"
He chuckled and smacked her ass. "You'll hear no arguments from me." He took her hand again. "Time to go deal with all the pomp."
They entered the antechamber that adjoined the throne room and were met by Aro, Sulpicia, Caius and Athenadora, who hugged her son the minute she saw him. "My little Jasper." She cupped his face in her hands, her bottom lip trembling with emotion. "You're all grown up now and today, you will be a king."
She looked at Bella, cupping her cheek. "But very soon we shall have another little Prince or Princess, yes?"
Caius smirked at his son. "What did I tell you? Already looking forward to your replacement."
Athenadora smirked at Bella, dropping her hands as she turned to her husband. "Caius, darling, you will be a very lonely vampire if you do not apologize immediately for such slanderous words." She cocked a brow and waited.
He smiled charmingly. "Dora, love of my existence, you know I was only trying to inject a bit of levity into what could have been a very emotional moment. We must maintain our bearings in front of our society, do you not agree my love?"
He took her into his arms and she sighed. "Yes, I suppose you're right."
Bella leaned toward Jasper, whispering, "He's very smooth, isn't he? You should take notes Jas, because I didn't buy your answer about the antics of your youth yesterday at all."
Aro choked on a laugh and Sulpicia pinched him, drawing an outraged yelp. "What…."
She held up a finger to him, stilling his words. "You know very well what. Now, shall w e get on with the nights proceedings?"
He sighed. "Yes, you're quite right dear wife."
The many occupants of the castle fell silent as the royals entered the throne room, Jasper taking his place, kneeling in the center of the dais, his uncle and father standing before him.
He spoke vows to uphold their laws, maintain peace and to ever be loyal to the House of Volturi.
When he was through speaking, they placed a crown on his head and he stood with them to share a ceremonial cup.
When that was done, they faced the crowd and Aro spoke. "I present to you your new King, Jasper Volturi."
Everyone in the room bowed or curtsied and they all took their thrones as the music began. Jasper took Bella's hand with a sigh. "Would you care to dance my Queen?" He glanced at her with a smirk. "It's expected."
He stood and she reluctantly stood with him. "The things I suffer for you."
He laughed quietly. "After all we've been through and you complain about dancing?"
They reached the floor and he pulled her close, leading her effortlessly.
"Well, I have gotten better with the lessons that your uncle has been giving me, but that doesn't mean I like it."
His eyes sparkled with mirth as he looked down at her. "Not even with me?"
She gasped as he spun her around, ending with a breathless laugh. "Well, you are quite skilled and that spin was fun, I'll give you that."
He smirked. "It would seem my years of lessons paid off then. That's high praise coming from you."
They danced three more dances throughout the evening and greeted countless numbers of vampires, but one stood out in Bella's mind for the way she devoured Jasper with her eyes as they spoke and her name was Tanya.
Bella had hated her immediately, especially since the female wouldn't stop looking at Jasper for the rest of the night.
Jasper finally looked over at Bella, taking note of how tired she looked. It was time to get her back to their rooms and into bed.
He stood and raised his glass, gaining the crowd's attention. "It is time for me to adjourn. Thank you for your attendance and your good wishes. My lovely mate and I bid you all a good night." He nodded to his uncle and father and took Bella's hand, helping her to her feet and out the back exit.
Once they were in the hall, he swept her into his arms and carried her the rest of the way, holding her close as he placed a kiss on her head.
She was asleep by the time he'd reached their rooms and he carefully changed her into some sleep pants and a tank before finally tucking her into their bed.
He leaned down and kissed her softly, whispering to her, "I'll be gone when you awake my love. Keep yourself and our child safe for me until I return. I love you both, so much."
He turned, placed his crown on the dresser top and left the room, intent on meeting with his father. From there, they would leave for Forks, to finish what the shifters had started, once and for all.
He would wipe out their existence for good.
He was determined.
The tension was thick in the throne room as Demetri escorted the prisoner in for judgement. It really hadn't taken him long to locate her but she'd posed a challenge for him just getting to her as she'd used her visions to elude him at the very last minute several times. It had been maddening, until he'd spoken to Jasper who had told him to avoid making any conscious decisions and just follow by instincts. That had worked like a charm and he'd caught her within a day.
Now here they were and it was time for Aro to read her, which had just about everyone interested. Thus far, her motivation for her deeds had been a complete mystery; one that was about to end as Aro stood, all his usual humor absent as he stared down at the petite female vampire who had caused so much upheaval in all of their lives.
"Well, well… Alice Cullen. How kind of you to join us today. Your arrival has been most anticipated."
She smirked bitterly. "I'm sure. I can't say I'm happy to be here and I'm wondering why this was even necessary. I've done nothing wrong!"
Aro circled her where she stood, one finger against his lips as he smirked. "So you say Alice, so you say, however the truth remains to be revealed. If, and this is a doubtful 'if', you are innocent of colluding with Carlisle Cullen in the attack upon our Prince and the death of my brother, King Marcus, you have nothing to fear and will be free to go within moments."
He stopped directly in front of her. "If, however, you are found to be guilty of collusion, you shall not be walking out our doors ever again." He held out a hand to her. "Shall we proceed?"
She took a step back. "I refuse! You cannot convict me based on my thoughts alone! You need solid proof! This is ridiculous!"
Aro caught Demetri's gaze and he stepped up behind Alice, taking hold of her arms as she began to struggle. Aro tsk'ed. "My dear Alice, need I remind you that your disembodied head will do quite nicely for a reading? Such a circumstance can be accomplished quite easily should it be necessary."
She ceased her struggles, her shoulders sagging in defeat as she slowly took Aro's hand. He stared off into the distance for moments, his brows rising higher and higher in shock until a scowl overtook his features as he practically threw her hand away with a scoff of disgust.
He made his way quickly to his throne where he sat and eyed her with disdain. "Take her to the dungeon Demetri and make certain that she is secure."
Demetri inclined his head. "Yes my Lord."
They left the room and Aro looked first to his brother and then his nephew, a heavy sigh escaping him as he rubbed a hand over his face. "What a mess… and such a waste due to the greed and depravity of three beings."
Caius, never the patient one, spoke. "What did you discern Aro? Do not leave us in the dark brother."
"For Alice, all her machinations began when she awoke to this life. She'd been in a mental institution when she was taken and turned. The first visions she had were of Carlisle and Edward Cullen. She knew that she would be a part of their family. She thought doing so would ultimately lead her to her life mate."
Caius leaned forward. "Did she believe that to be Jasper?"
Aro shook his head. "No, she believed her life mate to be Jasper's first son. It's why she did all she could to subtly foster Jasper's presence in forks. She also worked behind the scenes to get Jasper and Bella together and then worked to get Bella away from Jasper after she knew she was pregnant. She encouraged Edward in his obsession with Bella and the idea of a child because it fell in with her plans. Essentially, she wanted to raise her idea of the perfect mate. After Jasper killed Edward for raping Bella, she thought to get rid of Jasper so that she could more easily manipulate Bella during the pregnancy. She had planned to get rid of her completely after the birth."
Jasper sat, seemingly calm, as he let the shock of all of that slowly register before finally speaking, his voice low and laced with malice. "And the wolves? Did she help plan their attack?"
Aro rubbed his forehead with his fingers. "Yes. She encouraged Carlisle's anger and hatred toward you and gave him direction. It was he who contacted the shifters however, but at her urging."
Jasper's gaze met his father's. "It is enough to justify her destruction which I would like to carry out before my coronation tomorrow night. I don't relish the thought of her continued existence any longer than necessary. She is crafty and not worth the risk she poses, especially to my mate and child."
Both Caius and Aro agreed and it was decided that she would be destroyed as soon as the current session of court was over, with all three of them overseeing. Jasper hadn't conducted any more torture since that first session with Carlisle and he really wasn't looking forward to it either.
The vampire was still languishing in the dungeon, and that's where he would stay for the time being.
Jasper, his father and uncle had been busy preparing for the coronation and the ensuing trip to Forks to eliminate the shifters. At least, that was how Jasper had justified his avoidance of the dungeon thus far, but he knew it wouldn't last forever and he would have to confront the conflicting parts of his psyche once again. He just prayed that doing so wouldn't have lasting effects on him personally.
He rose when they finally adjourned, but paused at his father's voice. "Jasper, a word please?"
He nodded and fell into step when his father drew close as they left the throne room. "Your uncle and I thought to carry out this execution immediately. Are you ready for that?"
Jasper's brow furrowed as he glanced at his father. "Yes, why wouldn't I be?"
Caius stared straight ahead, but his voice gave away his concern. "I know that whipping Cullen bothered you more than you like to admit my son. I've been hoping that you would come to speak with me about it, but that hasn't happened yet…"
Jasper stopped and turned to his father, a muscle twitching in his jaw. "I am fine with what has taken place and I will resume a regular schedule after we return from Forks. He needs to pay for what he's done and he will. I will see to it. I have just been busy…"
"Jasper, it is not weakness to be bothered by carrying out such a brutal act, especially at such a young age. I agree that it must be done, but that doesn't mean that it has to be done by you exclusively…"
Jasper shook his head. "No! I cannot, in good conscience, order such to be done if I am not willing to do it myself! What kind of a leader would I be then? One who is not willing to get his hands dirty, but will order others to do so? That is a flaw in character that I am unwilling to foster. These are the principles that you taught me father, and I will not run from them now just because it's difficult."
Caius studied his son for moments before nodding, the pride and love he felt for his son almost overwhelming.
"I understand son, but do not fault me for wishing to take this painful burden from your shoulders."
Jasper embraced his father briefly. "I know, and I love you all the more for it. But I have to do this, even if it's a struggle. I will endeavor not to lose myself in the process and I promise to come to you if I need you."
They began walking toward the dungeon again. "Very well. That's all I ask. You are too important to me to allow you to self-destruct, no matter the cause."
Jasper smiled at his father and they began their descent into the bowels of the castle.
They found her pacing her cell as Carlisle watched, huddled in a corner, a shadow of what he once had been.
Jasper's gaze passed over his biological father briefly before settling on his purpose for being there. "Alice Cullen, you have been found guilty of high crimes against the royal family and have been sentenced to destruction to be carried out immediately. Any last words?"
She spit at Jasper's feet. "No. What's the point?"
Jasper smirked at her. "Valid question."
He motioned to the guard who stepped forward and opened the cell door. The minute he had, she made a break for it and Jasper caught her by the throat, practically hissing in her face as he held her up. "This is why you shall not exist another moment. No one harms my family and gets away with it you twisted, crazy piece of offal."
Having said that, he grasped her head and twisted, removing it cleanly and tossing it to the guard who tossed it into the furnace. He threw the body in the direction of the open furnace and watched as the rest of her was fed in by pieces until she was gone completely.
He smirked at Carlisle who had watched the entire thing. "Don't think I have forgotten you. I will be getting back to you very soon. I'll let you sit here and wonder just when that might be."
He turned and left the dungeon, following close behind his father and hearing his uncle speak as they neared the top of the stairs. "When will you be leaving for Forks?"
"Jasper and I have spoken about leaving in the early morning, after the coronation."
Once in the main hallway, Aro turned to them. "So soon? I suppose it makes sense to get it over and done with but I thought perhaps you would want a reprieve from all the upset." He eyed Jasper carefully as Jasper sighed.
"Uncle, I will tell you as I have told my father. I am fine. Yes, this is all very disturbing to deal with, but it must be done and I was raised to deal with difficult issues." He smirked at the two elder vampires. "You two are giving mother hens a run for their money lately."
Aro chuckled. "Now, there's a hint of the sarcastic nephew that I know and love and at times, would love to throttle. I was beginning to despair of ever seeing him again."
They began walking toward the royal wing of the castle and Jasper laughed softly. "You missed my sarcasm uncle? Really?"
"Well, with the absence of that along with not hearing of various sexual exploits each and every day, it was becoming quite boring around here."
Caius laughed. "Indeed, but I wouldn't count on a return of his roaming ways Aro. Bella would not be pleased, I'm sure." He smirked at his scowling son.
"Must you two talk about this?"
Aro hooted. "Yes! Consider it payback for all the times I had to smooth the ruffled feathers of guests who were greeted by the very loud sounds coming from the receptionists quarters upon their arrival to the castle!"
Jasper smirked. "I cannot help that they were all prudes, stuck in the past where sex is concerned. Not to mention it was great fun."
He froze when Bella stepped up to the open door they'd just arrived at. "What was great fun Jas?"
Both elder vampires turned to him with one brow cocked, waiting to see how he answered. "Uh, oh nothing. You look lovely today Bella. Is that a new dress?"
She took in the expressions on the faces of the two kings and narrowed her eyes at her mate. "No, it isn't. You've seen me in it before…" She held up a finger when he began to speak. "…after you got your memories back. Now, what was great fun?"
He smiled. "Oh, we were just discussing some of my exploits as a kid around the castle. That's all."
He ushered her into the door and closed it behind him as Aro and Caius looked at each other. "Nice recovery. He get's that from you brother."
Caius smirked as he walked toward his rooms. "Yes, but I don't think Bella bought it. He still has some digging to do to get out of that hole, I would say." He waved lazily. "Time for me to spend quality time with my wife. See you later brother."
~o0o~
Bella watched in silence as Jasper readied himself for his coronation. He'd been very introspective all day, and she couldn't say she blamed him. He would be a king after all was said and done and that was a huge responsibility; one that, it was obvious, he was taking very seriously.
Her eyes roamed his form, clad in the very finest custom and cut; he was breath-taking and her heart swelled with love and pride at the knowledge that he was hers.
He turned toward her just as he settled his Volturi pendant in place, holding out a hand to her. "Are you ready Bella?"
Taking his hand, she smiled up at him. "The more important question is, are you ready? You've been quiet all day and it has me a little worried."
He gave her a wan smile. "I'm fine. I've just been thinking of my uncle quite a bit, today especially since it's his throne I'll be taking." He looked down. "I only hope that I'll do his memory justice."
She cupped his cheek and kissed him softly. "I'm sure you will Jas. I'm sure he would be very proud of you, today especially. I know I am. You are an amazing person with such a great capacity to love but not only that, you have a very fair sense of justice and the courage to not only do what is right, but what is hard. There aren't many people in this world who possess those qualities, but you do."
He drew her close and kissed her. "How did I get so blessed to have such a mate as you? You are my rock Bella and I love you so much."
She grinned up at him. "I am pretty fuck-awesome aren't I?"
He chuckled and smacked her ass. "You'll hear no arguments from me." He took her hand again. "Time to go deal with all the pomp."
They entered the antechamber that adjoined the throne room and were met by Aro, Sulpicia, Caius and Athenadora, who hugged her son the minute she saw him. "My little Jasper." She cupped his face in her hands, her bottom lip trembling with emotion. "You're all grown up now and today, you will be a king."
She looked at Bella, cupping her cheek. "But very soon we shall have another little Prince or Princess, yes?"
Caius smirked at his son. "What did I tell you? Already looking forward to your replacement."
Athenadora smirked at Bella, dropping her hands as she turned to her husband. "Caius, darling, you will be a very lonely vampire if you do not apologize immediately for such slanderous words." She cocked a brow and waited.
He smiled charmingly. "Dora, love of my existence, you know I was only trying to inject a bit of levity into what could have been a very emotional moment. We must maintain our bearings in front of our society, do you not agree my love?"
He took her into his arms and she sighed. "Yes, I suppose you're right."
Bella leaned toward Jasper, whispering, "He's very smooth, isn't he? You should take notes Jas, because I didn't buy your answer about the antics of your youth yesterday at all."
Aro choked on a laugh and Sulpicia pinched him, drawing an outraged yelp. "What…."
She held up a finger to him, stilling his words. "You know very well what. Now, shall w e get on with the nights proceedings?"
He sighed. "Yes, you're quite right dear wife."
The many occupants of the castle fell silent as the royals entered the throne room, Jasper taking his place, kneeling in the center of the dais, his uncle and father standing before him.
He spoke vows to uphold their laws, maintain peace and to ever be loyal to the House of Volturi.
When he was through speaking, they placed a crown on his head and he stood with them to share a ceremonial cup.
When that was done, they faced the crowd and Aro spoke. "I present to you your new King, Jasper Volturi."
Everyone in the room bowed or curtsied and they all took their thrones as the music began. Jasper took Bella's hand with a sigh. "Would you care to dance my Queen?" He glanced at her with a smirk. "It's expected."
He stood and she reluctantly stood with him. "The things I suffer for you."
He laughed quietly. "After all we've been through and you complain about dancing?"
They reached the floor and he pulled her close, leading her effortlessly.
"Well, I have gotten better with the lessons that your uncle has been giving me, but that doesn't mean I like it."
His eyes sparkled with mirth as he looked down at her. "Not even with me?"
She gasped as he spun her around, ending with a breathless laugh. "Well, you are quite skilled and that spin was fun, I'll give you that."
He smirked. "It would seem my years of lessons paid off then. That's high praise coming from you."
They danced three more dances throughout the evening and greeted countless numbers of vampires, but one stood out in Bella's mind for the way she devoured Jasper with her eyes as they spoke and her name was Tanya.
Bella had hated her immediately, especially since the female wouldn't stop looking at Jasper for the rest of the night.
Jasper finally looked over at Bella, taking note of how tired she looked. It was time to get her back to their rooms and into bed.
He stood and raised his glass, gaining the crowd's attention. "It is time for me to adjourn. Thank you for your attendance and your good wishes. My lovely mate and I bid you all a good night." He nodded to his uncle and father and took Bella's hand, helping her to her feet and out the back exit.
Once they were in the hall, he swept her into his arms and carried her the rest of the way, holding her close as he placed a kiss on her head.
She was asleep by the time he'd reached their rooms and he carefully changed her into some sleep pants and a tank before finally tucking her into their bed.
He leaned down and kissed her softly, whispering to her, "I'll be gone when you awake my love. Keep yourself and our child safe for me until I return. I love you both, so much."
He turned, placed his crown on the dresser top and left the room, intent on meeting with his father. From there, they would leave for Forks, to finish what the shifters had started, once and for all.
He would wipe out their existence for good.
He was determined.
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