Lyrical Melodrama Story Contest

Edward's Punishment

By: MickeyandMinnie

Inspired by the song: Permanent

Artist: David Cook

Category: Newbie

Main Pairing: Edward and Bella

POV: Bella

Chapter 2

All too soon we arrived at the airport. I climbed out of the car and started to make my way to the small private plane when a hand grabbed my arm and stopped me. I turned to see Aro smirking as a female guard that had been waiting for us at the plane held me in place.

"You need to be prepared first, Isabella."

I saw a syringe in the guard's hand and started to tremble. I heard a deep sigh escape from Aro's chest. I wondered if he was losing patience with me. I needed to be brave. I did not want him to change his mind about bringing me along. I closed my eyes in submission.

"This will mask your scent. You will need to receive injections every twenty-four hours while in Volterra. We wouldn't want to ruin our surprise for Edward, now would we?"

I shook my head and took a deep breath as I felt the sharp jab of the needle as it pierced my skin. I wasn't sure what game Aro was playing, so I decided to just be grateful that I got to play. The contents of the syringe stung as it entered my arm, but I tried to hold still. A whimper escaped my lips as she pulled the needle back out of the newly formed hole. Next, I saw her approach my head with a small ball and string. The confusion must have been apparent on my face, as Aro chuckled.

"Open, Isabella."

I parted my lips slightly, and she grabbed my jaw forcing my mouth to open wider. She shoved the ball deep inside causing me to gag slightly. Then she stretched the strings around my head and tied them tightly at the back. Even if I was tempted to speak to Edward, I wouldn't be able to. I tried stretching my neck against the strings to loosen them a bit, but they didn't give at all. It wasn't comfortable, but I could make do. I turned back to Aro and waited for him to give me permission to move forward.

When we boarded the plane I was marched right past my true love. His body tensed and his muscles pulled tight against the restraints holding his body still. The black hood was still over his head preventing him from seeing me, but I knew he could hear my heartbeat.

Suddenly, the large guard next to Edward thrust his elbow into the side of my angel's head. I heard the growl of anger rumble deep inside his chest. The large guard only laughed at Edward's show of defiance.

"You will not be feeding during your punishment, slave."

I was horrified by the thought that he was going to be denied nourishment during this hell. Then the realization hit me. They wanted to break him.

Sitting at the back of the plane, I silently watched his rigid posture, aching to comfort him. I tried to stay awake during the long flight, not wanting to take my eyes off of Edward. Eventually, my human weakness won out and my eyelids closed.

I was startled as I felt the bump as the wheels touched solid surface once again. I sat up groggily, and tried to focus my eyes on my love. It didn't appear he had moved once throughout the entire flight. A flash of anger permeated my soul as I realized he probably couldn't move due to the tight restraints. I shook my head, trying to clear the anger from my mind. I needed to be able to think clearly. I tried to distract myself by looking out the windows. I spotted a small glimmer of the sun as it was just beginning to rise.

As soon as the plane stopped, the two guards quickly flanked Edward on both sides. They released him from the restraints and stood him up. I could see his resistance and felt his anxiety about what was waiting for him. A small whimper escaped my throat and he froze. Jane glared at me and for a moment I was terrified at what I had done. But then Aro caught my eye and winked. He was pleased. Had I just played into his game as expected?

I watched as Aro motioned for the guards to lead Edward forward. He hesitated at first, breathing deeply through the large hood. A shudder coursed through his body, then his head bowed and he relinquished himself to what lay ahead.

I closed my eyes, trying to hold back the tears that were threatening to fall. When I opened them again, I jumped. The female guard was standing right next to me. She seemed to appear out of nowhere. I would need to get used to her speed and sudden appearances.

"Come, Isabella. If you don't want to be mistaken for food, make sure you stay with me."

Trembles shuddered throughout my entire body as I tried not to allow the fear to paralyze me. I followed my guide closely as she led the way through countless winding tunnels. There was no doubt I would be hopelessly lost if I allowed her out of my sight. Finally, she stopped just outside a large wooden door.

After such a long flight, I figured we would have the day to rest and nourish ourselves before the activities began. I was wrong. As soon as she opened the door, my heart sank to my toes. Despite the gag, I gasped at the sight in front of me. I froze in place.

Her cold hands pushed me into the small room. My feet stumbled as I didn't look at the floor in front of me. My eyes would not leave the sight of my true love.

I could see into the next room through a window. There on the floor kneeling awkwardly was Edward. As I looked closer, I could see the chains that were holding him in such an uncomfortable position. His wrists were cuffed behind his back, he was barefoot, and his ankles were also cuffed. A chain was connecting his wrists and ankles together. The hood had been replaced with a blindfold; although I was sure it was just as effective at blocking his vision. I could see Edward's tormented face. I watched as his chest was rising and falling with quick pants in resistance and anticipation of what was to come.

The large guard that had struck Edward earlier on the plane was walking towards him. He held something in his hand that looked like a large necklace. As I watched him wrap it around Edward's neck, I realized it was a collar. It angered me how they kept treating Edward like a wild animal. My fists clenched at my sides.

The female guard had been watching me, and smirked at my reaction. I couldn't tell if she was impressed by the fire in my eyes or not. I returned my focus back to the next room. I saw the guard pulling on the chain connecting Edward's wrists and ankles. I was confused until I saw him hook another chain to the back of Edward's collar. I looked on helplessly as he yanked the collar back towards the first chain, connecting them. Now Edward's neck was being pulled down, forcing his entire torso into an arch.

My guard walked up behind me and removed the gag. She thrust a plate of cheese and crackers towards me. I really wasn't that hungry, my stomach was churning nervously because of our situation. However, based on her expression, I didn't think I had much of a choice. I wanted to keep my strength up in case Edward needed me, so I quietly ate.

I had finished a little over half of the meal, when she reached forward and turned a dial on the wall. Suddenly the room was filled with the sounds of my true love's suffering. Edward had seemed to be tolerating the punishment quite well, until now. His breathing was increasing and coming out in short gusts. His entire body was trembling as he tried to fight against the restraints. I frantically searched the room but couldn't find anything different. He wasn't being hurt physically, so it had to be something he had heard in his mind.

Tears that had welled up in my eyes at the sight of him in such an uncomfortable position, now threatened to cascade down my cheeks. I was terrified for what he was so anxious about. I stared at the door of his room, quivering in fear. I gasped when it finally opened and I could hear the voice of Aro.

"Edward…you know I hate to see you like this. But, alas, you have not shown obedience. When rules are broken and orders are not followed, consequences are expected. It is the natural order of things. Without enforcement, chaos would abound."

I watched silently as Aro caressed Edward's face as he spoke. He paused for a moment, almost looking regretful. I wondered what he was finding in Edward's thoughts that caused him so much reflection.

"I could waive the sentence and release you, if you will admit that it was the human that refused to follow my instructions."

I couldn't believe my ears. Had I heard him correctly? He was offering Edward a way out. He wouldn't have to suffer because of me.

"Please, Edward, tell him."

A low chuckle echoed inside the room I was in. I realized the guard had heard my whispered plea.

"You'd better hope he doesn't, Isabella. While the punishment won't be pleasant for him, it would surely kill you."

I turned back to look upon my angel, my protector. I knew what his answer would be. Edward was shaking his head, refusing Aro's offer. The expression on Aro's face left no doubt that he was displeased.

"Maybe a session with Nathan will change your mind. I will return again tomorrow in case you desire to alter your response."

With that said, he exited the room leaving Edward alone with the large burly vampire who had been silently observing the entire exchange. His voice was gruff and intimidating.

"Sounds like we get to play, slave."

He was standing over by a side counter. I hadn't noticed it before now. My eyes widened as I took in the horrific sight. I gasped as I saw the different tools being caressed almost lovingly by the cruel vampire that thought of this as playtime. I wanted to be able to tell Edward that I was here with him. I desired nothing more than to stand between my true love and this monster, but I couldn't. All I could do was watch and try to figure out how I was going to offer comfort when I was allowed to be with him.

The large, burly vampire approached Edward cautiously. I wasn't sure why he was hesitating, as Edward obviously posed no threat as restrained as he was. Then it dawned on me that he was inspecting Edward. A shiver traveled through my body. I held my breath as he reached out and took a fistful of Edward's shirt into one of his large hands. With one quick swipe, he tore Edward's shirt away from his body. He moved closer and gently stroked Edward's back and chest. I could tell his touch was making Edward very anxious, as his body would flinch at each contact. I watched in silent horror as the large rough hands of the cruel torturer grabbed Edward's right pectoral muscle and squeezed. Edward tried to pull away, but could not escape with the restraints keeping his body arched in such a manner.

In Nathan's hand, twirling through his fingers, I spotted a three inch needle attached to a wooden handle. Instinctively, I reached out in an attempt to embrace Edward. Both of my hands pressed hard against the window's glass. I longed to wrap my arms around him and protect him from what was about to happen.

Edward didn't appear to be informed of Nathan's plan. I wondered if Aro had told him of Edward's ability. I hoped I was wrong. It disgusted me that part of Nathan's punishment tactics included building the anticipation of what pain and suffering the victim would receive. I knew that Edward could deal with it better if he had some time to prepare.

Edward's loud agonized howl of pain confirmed that he had no clue of the punishment before it happened. I was horrified that I couldn't stop this no matter how badly I wanted to. He had saved me so many times, and now when he needed saving the most, I was powerless to help him. I shook my head in frustration, acknowledging my failure.

I could hear Edward panting and snarling. I realized I had closed my eyes to the horror. I would not fail him in this. I would suffer this punishment along with him in the only way I was allowed. Opening my eyes once again, I watched as Nathan reached out to grab Edward's left pectoral muscle. Edward jerked away as far as he could until the restraints stopped him once again. The cruel vampire just laughed and gripped tighter onto Edward's flesh.

Tears streaked my cheeks as I watched him drive another large needle through the pinched muscle. Edward didn't cry out this time, but from the torment on his face I knew it hurt just as much as the last one. Nathan slid large stoppers onto the sharp ends of both needles so they couldn't easily slide out. Then he attached a chain to both handles and pulled upward. Edward's chest rose high into the air, despite the chains restraining his limbs and neck.

Nathan reached above and looped a final chain around a large hook. I hadn't noticed it until now; a large hook was suspended from the ceiling. Nathan clipped the final chain to the one attached to Edward's pierced chest. He released both chains and Edward's body fell back. A loud roar of pain vibrated against the walls as the force tore the buried needles through some of Edward's chest muscles and flesh.

Almost immediately he thrust his body up to relieve the ripping. This, however, caused an enormous tension on the chains surrounding his wrists, ankles and neck. I wasn't sure how long he could hold this position. I knew the moment he allowed his muscles to slack his chest would resume tearing around the needles. Edward realized it now, as well. A small moan escaped Edward's throat.

"Nice" growled the cruel vampire.

My body was shaking with anger. He was so sick. He was actually enjoying the torture he was inflicting on my love. Every inch of my body was consumed with hatred and murderous intentions for the cruel vampire before my eyes. My body was trembling almost as much as Edward's was. He was attempting to regulate his breathing, but I could tell he was struggling. After what seemed like hours, Nathan finally left the room. I turned to my guard.

"How long is he going to leave him like that?"

Her head cocked to the side as a slight grin spread across her face. She was enjoying my torment as much as Nathan enjoyed Edward's.

"He will remain in that position until Aro decides to grace him with his presence tomorrow."

Anger began to overflow inside me and I could feel the heat rising in my face.

"WHAT?"

Her grin was replaced with a smirk.

"That's part of the punishment, Isabella."

I shook my head. Taking a deep breath, I mustered up all of the courage I had left.

"I wish to speak with Aro."

I discovered my guard's name was Ariana as we were walking through the long dark tunnels. Another vampire crossed our path and greeted her, before realizing I was present. The way the other vampire was looking at me reminded me of her first words to me.

"…If you don't want to be mistaken for food, make sure you stay with me."

A tremble rocked my body from head to toe. At least Ariana hadn't looked at me as something to eat. I should be grateful that Aro assigned her to guard me. She isn't cruel to me, but instead seems to enjoy the entertainment I provide her. Apparently I do not react as predicted and she enjoys the show. Fortunately, it is her desire to see what I'll do next that led her to agree to take me to see Aro.

I was standing, head bowed and eyes glued to the floor, waiting for him to acknowledge my presence. Ariana was describing my distress and what she considered a "foolish" demand to bother the master with, to another guard. I grimaced as I closed my eyes and tried to regain my focus. I had to approach Aro cautiously and plead my case appropriately or I might make things worse. I was concentrating so hard, I almost didn't hear when he spoke to me.

"Isabella…Isabella, speak to me now."

I opened my eyes slowly and took a deep breath to calm my nerves.

"Master Aro, I only desire to be given permission to fulfill the duties you have bestowed upon me."

I glanced up carefully and saw his nod. I turned around and walked slowly back to the hallway that led to the prison holding Edward. Just as I passed through the doorway, I heard Aro's reminder.

"Don't forget, Isabella, you may not speak with the prisoner during punishment."

I nodded silently and continued walking. I was pretty sure I was heading in the correct direction until Ariana reached out and grabbed my arm.

"Where are you going, Isabella? I thought you wished to serve and treat the prisoner?"

I switched direction and began to follow her without missing a step. She slowed in front of a small closet, retrieving a rag and a glass jar. I reached out and took them when she offered and then waited patiently for her to open the door that was the only thing keeping me apart from my angel. Her head bent down as she spoke quietly into my ear.

"Use the rag to dab the venom away from the open wounds. Then apply the ointment. It will cause him great pain at first, but then it will numb the area. He will be grateful when Nathan returns and pulls the needles out." She paused, and I thought she was finished. Then she sneered, "Isabella, don't try anything. I will be watching."

I nodded and took a deep ragged breath. My body shuddered as she stabbed my arm with another dose of the liquid that would alter my scent. Then she replaced the ball, gagging me slightly. I inhaled a deep breath through my nose as she turned the knob and slowly opened the door. I saw Edward's body tense in anticipation of Nathan's return. I wanted to let him know it was me, but I couldn't. Their warnings were screaming at me from inside my head. I was not allowed to speak to the prisoner, and they would know if I had. I clenched my jaw tight, refusing to give them a reason to inflict more torture upon my angel.

Quickly, I approached his side and set the jar on the ground. His body jerked as he tried to move away from me. Gently I grazed just my fingertips across his shoulder trying to convey to him I wasn't here to hurt him. I took my time caressing his shoulders, arms, and upper body so he would be used to my touch. I didn't want to startle him when I dressed his wounds.

With the utmost care, I softly pressed the rag to the torn flesh on the left side of his chest. It nearly broke my heart to hear him grunt in pain at the slight pressure. His body was trembling and I longed to offer words of comfort. Instead, I nuzzled my face into his neck allowing him to feel the warmth and love from my nurturing caress.

His body tensed at the contact. I was hurt at first, feeling rejected. Then I remembered that they had shot some kind of drug into my system to alter my scent. He didn't realize it was me. He thought he was all alone. I wasn't sure how to change that at the moment, so I just focused on my task.

Carefully I moved the rag to the wound on his right side. A low moan rumbled from his throat. Surprisingly, his body seemed to relax some even though I knew he was still hurting. I waited, giving him some time to rest. I was hesitant to use the ointment, not wanting to cause him additional pain.

I startled when the door opened. A deep growl vibrated from Edward's throat. Placing my hand on his arm to calm him, I turned my head to see who had entered the room. It was Ariana. Her eyes had narrowed from the sound of Edward's growl and I was concerned that her earlier kindness would not be repeated. I closed my eyes and started shaking my head, silently begging her to ignore him. She seemed to be amused at my efforts to communicate with her and folded her arms over her chest. Leaning back against the wall, she spoke slowly.

"Your time is almost up. If you are going to apply the ointment, you need to do it now. Don't worry; it will only hurt for awhile."

Taking a deep breath, I pushed myself away from his side and reached down for the jar. I decided to try to apply the ointment to both wounds at the same time, hoping to only inflict pain to his body once rather than twice. Collecting a generous amount between the fingers of both hands, I knelt in front of him.

I gently rested the heels of both of my palms against his body just below the fresh wounds. I wanted him to feel my presence and assure him that no matter what punishment he had to suffer, I would be there with him. I would never leave him alone. He could rely on me. I was permanent.

I waited for him to inhale, and then carefully spread the ointment across his torn flesh. His body immediately jerked against the chains.

"Ahh…"

I pressed my palms harder against his chest, desiring to be the one he would turn to for strength. As the effects of the ointment slowly numbed the injured area, his groans quieted. His muscles were still trembling but his breathing was returning to normal. I reached in closer and nuzzled him with my face once again. I was sure he could feel the wetness from my tears and hoped he would understand how much it tormented me not to be able to save him from this pain. His velvety voice filled the air.

"Don't cry for me. This is only temporary."

A/N: Thanks for reading! Don't forget to review and tell me what you think! Also, be sure to visit www(dot)thewriterscoffeeshop(dot)com to see all of the submissions for the contest. Voting begins on November 30th, and will be done by poll on the forum. Hope I get your vote!!