A/N: I'm going to keep this really short because I'm pms-ing with the intensity of a thousand suns. However, you, my wonderful readers, make everything so much better with your encouragement and enthusiasm for the story. I'm going to try and reply individually to reviews when I get the chance, but please know that I read and cherish every single one of them. Thank you so much for joining me on this journey! I also am so thankful for SunflowerFran and her dedication to editing and promoting this story. Lastly, I don't own these characters, but I've gotten so wrapped up in writing about them that sometimes I forget! Sorry for the delay in posting, and I hope you all enjoy!
PART III: SWAN
Chapter 26
The fire curls and twists in the gentle breeze of the late night, mimicking the dancing bodies of rejoicing citizens. Bella sits on the perimeter of Town Hall, watching as people merrily celebrate their win. After eliminating the three Iris, it was another hour before the rest of the convoy returned. The battle at the tree line had ended rather quickly, due to the superior fighting skills of the Forxians. This is not to say that there were no injuries. The healers are back at Jacob's lodge treating over thirty men and women, and every now and then, Bella receives updates on their well-being. Thankfully, there are no life-threatening injuries, but it pains her to know that they have been harmed.
Another hour and a half after the return, the festivities begin. Families had been cooking in anticipation of the arrival of hungry fighters and have brought forth quite the feast. The stage of the Town Hall is teeming with delicacies of all kinds, half of which Bella has somehow managed to try. She's had a good amount of time to recover from her gluttony and now surveys the gaiety around her. The people here are under no illusion; they know that the war is far from over and that tonight is a small victory. But it is a win nonetheless, and it is a testament that Forxians can band together once more to defend their nation. It holds great promise for the future.
"Does this young one belong to you?" Jessica appears before Bella with a bright-faced Charlotte in hand. The unguarded smile across the young Princess's face surprises her.
"Bella," Charlotte cheers, "Arrowless Bella, we must dance!"
"Charlie?" Bella stands, "What has gotten into you?"
"Let me know if you need anything," Jessica chuckles as she leaves.
Bella extends an arm to draw Charlotte closer, and soon realizes why the Princess is more jovial than usual. Teetering into her seat, Charlotte displays all the signs of tipsiness. Bella can't help but laugh at the marked difference in her behavior.
"Who gave you o'vrasi?" Bella asks, looping a securing arm around her friend.
"It was that damned Whitlock boy," Charlotte wags her finger in the air, "He refused to give me a sip of his drink, so I took the whole cup. He kept insisting I couldn't handle it, but I showed him!"
"Yes, I believe you did," Bella chuckles, "Do you feel nauseous at all?"
"No, I feel splendid," Charlotte announces loudly, "However, I would feel even better if we danced. Do you remember when we used to dance?"
Bella nods, sensing the wistfulness in the girl's voice. Those had seemed to be the simpler days, even if it was when Bella had been concealing her identity. During their practices, they'd been able to talk and express themselves freely without the threat of imminent war looming over their heads.
"Very well," Bella holds out a hand as she stands, "Let us dance, Princess."
Charlotte cheers wildly as Bella leads her to the throng of dancers near the fire. Despite their light clothing, their bodies are slick with sweat from the exertion and additional heat. Bella has also donned one of the Forxian silkworm dresses, the rose-colored fabric scooping low across her back. Now that everyone is aware of her identity, she bares her insignia proudly, allowing her wide expanse of black markings to be exposed for all to see. She imagines she must look like quite the sight. Her thick tresses are tied on the top of her head with a leather cord she'd stolen from Jacob, and her face still wears the black ink.
She doesn't care. As she moves to the tantalizing drumbeat, her naked feet meeting the hot earth, she releases her self-consciousness. She's achieved more than she'd ever thought capable of herself and deserves the chance to express herself freely. Eyes closed, she focuses on the beat settling in her chest, and theway her heart is synced with every pound. Broken lyrics spill from her lips as she murmurs along to the collective chants. Each breath accentuates the underlying rhythm tapped out on the wooden drum.
She feels alive.
A hand winds around her wrist, tugging her to follow. She doesn't need to open her eyes to know who is leading her through the crowd. His heated touch guides her, steering her through the congregation. Gradually, the density lessons until they've moved a few feet away. They finally turn a corner into the shadows alongside a building.
"Edward," Bella breathes, "What are you doing?"
The last word barely leaves her lips before he's breathing it in. His mouth descends on hers in a heated kiss, hotter than any fire he's generated from his hands. A moan escapes her upon contact. It has been much too long since she's felt his touch. She needs to make up for lost time, but no matter how close she gets to him, it never seems sufficient.
He appears to feel the same way. The gruff exterior of the building greets her back and wings as he pushes her against its frame, and brings his body flush against hers. Bella whimpers as she kisses him more feverishly, the base of her stomach coiling in desire. She threads her fingers through his hair to anchor his mouth to hers and slips her tongue out to taste the deliciousness that is Edward. He returns the action, pairing it with a squeeze from his hands around her waist.
The material of her dress bunches as his hips undulate against hers. This is uncharted territory. Unexplored galaxies. Bella has never been so intimate with someone, but with him, it feels natural. On his next rotation forward, she opens her legs to welcome him, inviting him into the silk warmth of her skin. He abandons her waist to take hold of her thighs and hoists her so that her feet no longer touch the ground. Once she's pinned against the wall by the lower half of him, he brings his attention back to her face, brushing his fingers along her cheeks and jawline.
He caresses her reverently, worshiping her celestial body. His fingertips trace from the hinge of her jaw to the peak of her chin, and then continue down her neck. They tickle across her collarbone and delve into the dimple at the center. Meanwhile, she squirms in anticipation, the want inside of her building with every second. Finally, unable to remain patient, she reaches for his hands and moves them to her chest, where they squeeze her mounds of flesh.
Almost simultaneously, they bring their hips together, eliciting a duet of gasps. Only the thin fabric of her undergarments and his worn pants separate her core from his. Heavy breaths travel between them as they repeat the action, steadily grinding against one another.
"Edward," Bella stutters, "I'm …"
"Just feel, Bella," he murmurs hoarsely as he presses another heated kiss to her. "Just feel."
She follows his encouragement, allowing herself to feel the climbing pleasure in the pit of her groin. Soft mewls tumble from her lips as she twists her fingers tightly in his hair. She reaches her peak, and her muscles contract forcefully with the achievement. Wave after wave her climax floods her, spurring her to writhe against Edward's frame once her muscles allow. At its end, she rests her forehead to his, completely spent. They remain quiet for a few moments as Bella catches her breath. After about a minute has passed, Edward breaks the silence.
"You were hurt," Edward murmurs, touching his lips softly to the swollen bump on her cheekbone. "You didn't tell me that."
"It is war, Edward," she finally manages before giggling breathily, "And I'm certainly not in pain now-,"
"I love you," he interrupts, "I don't want another battle, no, another moment to pass without you knowing that I love you with all of me. I'm so sorry I didn't tell you sooner."
Bella's eyes well as she leans forward to capture his lips briefly, "I know."
It's the truth; nothing else could explain the energy that exists between them other than mutual love. In a world where everything else is unsure, Edward is her foundation. No matter the conflict between them, all she needs to do is look into the fire of his eyes to see that he loves her with all of his being.
"Will you say it again?" Edward nuzzles his nose into her neck. How is it that she already feels stirrings of desire once more? "I want to hear you say it again."
"I love you," she answers immediately, "With all of me."
He smashes his lips to hers, sucking her lower one with hunger. She responds as feverishly, excitement filling her at the prospect of climaxing once more, or perhaps, getting Edward to experience the same pleasure. She's moments away from sneaking a hand to his breeches when a throat clears from a few feet away.
The sound is as effective as a bucket of ice-cold water. The two spring apart in an almost comical manner, righting themselves so that Bree can't see the evidence of their intimacy.
"The council has requested a meeting," Bree states before smirking evilly, "You might want to wipe the paint from your face, Prince Edward."
Though Bella's face is heated with embarrassment, she can't help but laugh at the black smudges across Edward's nose and cheeks. The marks only worsen as she uses her thumb to wipe them away.
"Laugh now, but you're the one who went into battle with blue-dotted wings," Edward retorts. She's left gaping as he walks away toward the campfire.
The atmosphere is noticeably different when they return. Citizens are seated around a tamed fire, turned toward the stage where the five council members sit. Four torches have been placed at the corners and sides of the platform to better illuminate them. Three are already known; Billy, Caius, and Carlisle, and the final two are women that Bella has never met before. The first, seated to Caius's left, is slight in stature, so much so that she has a stool placed beneath her feet. By the way she clasps onto Caius's hand and his affectionate gaze in return, Bella supposes they are romantically involved. The second woman causes Bella to stare. She has not one, but two heads, both of them covered in glossy, blonde hair.
"Do you think she has twice the voting power?" Edward whispers mischievously.
Bella elbows him sharply but admits she has to stifle her own giggle. She supposes this is a valid question; is the final council member comprised of two different sentient beings or two heads of one personality? Bella's theorizing is interrupted once she's forced to find seating. Eventually, she wedges herself between Edward and Jacob, toward the front and center of the crowd. As she glances around, she sees many familiar faces. Peter and Charlotte sit a few persons away with Jessica nearby. Jacob is seated beside Leah, who has an arm thrown around Seth. Her fellow lunellas are also close, accompanied by the Whitlocks and the Masens. She hadn't thought this to be such an official gathering, but the looks of it state otherwise. Unease begins to prickle her skin.
"I, Luna Athenadora, call this meeting into motion," the single-headed councilwoman speaks. Her voice is an unsteady croak, but it silences all of the murmured conversations. "We gather here tonight following a most impressive victory."
She pauses as the crowd breaks into raucous cheering. Athenadora can't help but smile as well, basking in the glory of the triumph. She allows for another minute of celebratory exclamations before lifting a hand to bring about order. The way in which she effortlessly controls the crowd tells Bella that she is greatly respected.
"We have called this meeting not to relish our success," she continues, "But to discuss the return of the Swann family. Many have had questions about the implications of their return, all of which will be addressed in this open forum. Is there anyone who wishes to begin?"
Immediately, the councilwoman with two heads lifts a hand. Picking up on Bella's confused expression, Jacob leans over and informs her that the councilwoman is Sola Didyme. She resides in Aryzonae and had arrived nearly an hour after the battle had finished.
"I, for one, would like to know exactly where the Swanns have been," Didyme speaks. The crowd begins to grumble in agreement, "It seems they were hiding away while Forxx was toiling through economic depression and governmental unrest."
"Shall they come to the platform?" Billy suggests, "I, too, would like to hear."
Swallowing thickly, Bella gathers the courage to stand. Not too far away, Esme is doing the same with the gentle assistance of Carlisle. The heat of the torches feels sweltering as Bella approaches, but she knows it is simply her nerves heightening her senses. She should have known this moment would come; she would have to stand before her people and atone for the events of the past. Two Forxians present the women with chairs on the side opposite to the line of councilmembers. Bella is no fool; she knows Billy took advantage of the moment to expose the Swann women before their citizens as if they are on trial.
After Didyme waves a hand to proceed, Esme begins recounting the events that still pain Bella to hear. Idly, she scratches her nail against the wooden armrest of the chair. Perhaps if she focuses on the uneven surface, she will look as if she's effortlessly maintaining composure. Unfortunately, her eyes cannot help but wander to the crowd so that she can survey their expressions. The reactions vary greatly; some look disbelieving, others look saddened, and a choice few look angered. For the life of her, Bella cannot decipher whether these reactions are in her favor. She knows that ultimately, she will stand before them as they vote on whether she can claim the crown. If any of these expressions result from ill feelings towards her, then she will have no chance at the throne.
As Esme draws her story to a close, a silence endures until one after the other, people begin to interrogate her: Why did she not go to King Felix once more? Why did she not seek refuge with her own people? Why did she wait so long to reveal herself? Bella can't blame them for the ferocity with which they question Esme. She has many of these queries herself, but she knows if she seems too embittered against her mother it won't help with reinstating the Swann family on the throne.
Finally, the moment comes when the questions lessen and the attention shifts to her. It is her turn to recount all that she had done once she learned of her role in the prophecy. She starts from her escape from Volturi Castle, purposely omitting details of her time under Aro's incarceration. Her voice wavers as she admits to concealing her identity from the Cullen crown, and the devastating loss of the King and Queen. She ends her recount with her journey to Forxx and being reunited with her mother. The audience questions her just as thoroughly as they had Esme, and she does her best to answer to their satisfaction. However, it is the final inquiry that causes her to briefly falter.
"I saw what you did," a woman speaks. Bella realizes that it is the woman of the couple that had been held hostage by Riley. She sits along with the Acu'lita family, hand clasped with the man who had also been held captive. "You have the same power of your father. How do we know that you aren't just as evil as him?"
"Rachel-," the man beside her begins.
"No, Paul, someone needs to ask,"Rachel continues, "You drained three people all at once, right before our eyes. How do we know that you do, in fact, stand for Cullenia and for us when your roots are so deep in Volturia?"
It is not entirely inappropriate that Rachel would ask such a thing; truthfully, this question plagues Bella daily. Do the similarities between her and her father extend past her appearance and powers? Is there something inherently evil in her that lies dormant? She averts her gaze once more, reverting to the comfort of not meeting the accusing stares of Rachel and many other citizens. But as she looks to her side, she catches sight of Esme, nervously twisting the silver ring on her finger. Bella reaches into her pocket and clasps the two rings that are never far from her grasp. Suddenly inspired, she stands to present Aro's signet to the crowd. There is a collective intake of breath.
"I lived in a cage for twelve years," Bella begins softly, "Most days I was allowed to spend a few hours out of my confinement, but there were many times I would be left for days without being released. It wasn't even the fact that Aro was trying to be cruel; no, it would happen because my father simply forgot about me. If my half-sister was ever absent from the castle, there was no one to remind him that I existed. The guard would leave, knowing that there was no reason to watch a trapped, pitiful girl. I'd lie without food, the only hydration being the stagnant water of my 'bird' feeder," she scoffs bitterly, "which made me sick more times than I can count. Three or four days later, he would remember he had another daughter, and come see me. He'd come to my cage, offer me an insincere apology, and then leave. That was it. As if it was enough. His apologies were one of the many meaningless things he gave me over the years, and I realize now that he did it so that I could never forget him. He wanted me to remember that he owned me. He never wanted me to forget that I was his bird."
She takes a deep breath as she tames her igniting anger, "And in some ways he succeeded. I will never forget the trauma of being contained in that enclosure or the way he stole my childhood from me. But at the same time, Aro's demise will come from the fact that he underestimated me. He thought he could break me through imprisonment, but that experience has helped me to be unfathomably strong."
She pauses to exchange rings, presenting her entwined jewelry to the crowd.
"I asked my mother how three different types of silver could be bent to create an exquisite ring such as this, and she told me that sometimes, a lot of effort is needed for something to become even more beautiful. This holds true for so much more than this ring; it goes beyond even my own circumstances. When I look out at all of your faces, I see this ring. I see three nations combined to create some of the most diverse and beautiful people. Here, founders, citizens, and refugees cohabitate in an atmosphere of acceptance that is often mistaken for complacency. But you, Forxians, are not complacent. You are welcoming people who have been trod upon by your neighboring nations. You have bent the most of the three lands, struggling to establish yourselves.
The time of yielding has ended. Tonight we begin a new era of rising to the challenge and showing that we are equalswith Volturia and Cullenia. Those nations cannot thrive without us. It is only through striving together, no, fighting together for the welfare of all, that we can live happily. So to answer your question –yes, I am Aro's daughter, and his power does live within me. But I do not reject my time with him because it is what helped make me who I am today, a person who can see Forxx and its inhabitants for all they're worth. My roots are embedded in all three nations. I stand here, promising to fight for you and with you as your Queen. I offer myself to you, asking you to be accepting once more. Allow me to help you achieve the beauty you deserve."
By the end of her speech, Bella's chest is heaving with her passion. When she'd initially stood to speak, she hadn't planned that lengthy answer, but the words had come tumbling out of her earnestly, one truth after the other. If they don't accept her now, then there is nothing more she can do to convince them –she has bared her soul to them.
The stillness and silence are broken as a man stands from the middle of the crowd. He seems to be middle aged, but the way he holds himself makes him appear to be older. Citizens shift as he hobbles through them, the tip of his cane creating a slight scraping sound against the rocks in the dirt. Bella is sure that he is leaving in distaste until he reaches the front of the stage. His somber voice rings out; it is strong and authoritative in a way that demands the attention of all around him.
"I am Harold, head of the Acu'lita family," the man speaks, "We haven't had the chance to thank you for bringing our youngest Acu'lita home. Were it not for you, he surely would have died in Cullenia. For your willingness to lay your life down for your people, the Acu'lita family pledges their allegiance to you, Isabelle Swann, Cora di tr'ea n'ocias."
Using his cane to support him, he slowly lowers himself to the ground, baring the wooden peg of his foot before him as he stoops to one knee. Then, in an unmistakable move, he bows his head to her.
Whispers break out amongst the crowd as his family soon follows behind him; little Seth races to his father's side so that he can bow as well. Bella is surprised to see Rachel and Paul in this mix having not known their relation to Seth but happy nonetheless to see that they support her. She imparts a smile to them before another voice rings out from the crowd.
This one is all too familiar to her.
"I, Jacob Black, pledge my allegiance to Isabelle Swann," he states, already stooped to his knee, "Cora di tr'ea n'ocias."
"You will do no such thing!" Billy stands to yell at his son, "Get up, you shameful boy. Do you not see that she is as corrupt as her parents-?"
"He can speak for himself," Jessica growls as she stomps up to the front, "He is an independent citizen with the power to vote, as am I. I, Jessica Stanl'ae, pledge my allegiance to Isabelle Swann, Cora di tr'ea n'ocias."
"As do I," Peter stands, "I pledge my allegiance to Bella, Cora di tr'ea n'ocias!"
"Us too," Claire, Bree, Quil, and James chorus as they lower to a bow.
"My wife can't bow, but we do too," Emmett joins, "We pledge our allegiance."
"No more outbursts," Athena tries to regain control, "We will vote in an orderly fashion-."
However, it's too late. In an avalanching fashion, the citizens of Forxx pledge their allegiance, kneeling in a submissive bow to Bella. Her eyes water as she sees Didyme, Carlisle, and Caius out of their seats and positioned in the same manner. It doesn't escape her notice that her mother, Carlisle, Jasper, Alice, and even Eleazar have also pledged themselves to her. In this moment, her ill feelings against them don't matter; she needs their support now more than ever.
By the time the crowd settles, all but about ten persons remain standing in opposition. She doesn't feel resentful towards the few that have rejected her, two of which are Billy and Athenadora. She cannot blame them for being wary, as she is someone foreign laying claim to the crown. After time, they too will see the love she has for this nation. Her eyes return to the crowd as she realizes that Edward is one of the few standing. She flushes as she watches him walk to the stage, and her skin tingles as she remembers the heated touches they had exchanged only moments ago.
As he reaches her, she resists the urge to extend a hand to him in an effort to seek his comfort. It takes all of her control to remain appropriate when he is just about a foot away from her. Thankfully, his next action distracts her from her threatening lewd thoughts. In front of the town, plain for all to see, Edward gets to his knees and bows his head.
"I, King Edward Cullen, pledge my and Cullenia's allegiance to you, Isabelle Marie Swann," he speaks confidently. His voice only wavers once he tries to pronounce the final Forxian words, "As well as my heart. I will stand beside you in the war and until the end of time. You will lead us all, Cora di tr'ea n'ocias."
In record timing, blood rushes to Bella's face as her mouth pops open in shock. Knowing that she can't formulate any words, she relies on actions. Cupping Edward's cheeks, she draws him to stand so that she can press what she intends to be a brief kiss to his lips. Chasteness is abandoned as Edward swoops her into his arms, and spins her as the crowd bursts in exultation. She closes her eyes not only to focus on the feel of his embrace but also to sink into the chants of the people.
Her people.
Cora di tr'ea n'ocias …
Cora di tr'ea n'ocias …
Cora di tr'ea n'ocias …
Queen of three nations.
~SWAN~
Three pairs of eyes are trained on Bella. She can't exactly see them due to her hiding beneath the covers, but she knows she is being watched. She refuses to unveil herself, even though oxygen is running out beneath the bedspread. A few petulant kicks only result in Lua swatting her legs with a heavy paw instead of dissuading the waiting girls. Her cat continues to scratch at the covers until they're drawn away from her completely, exposing Bella to Bree, Claire, and Charlotte.
See if I ever bring you an extra helping of fish, Bella thinks pointedly at her pet.
Lua simply rolls onto her back and purrs in response.
"Bella, you didn't honestly think we'd let you go to bed without discussing this, would you?" Claire asks.
"I thought winning a battle and becoming Queen of the realms would excuse me from gossip for the night," Bella whines.
"First of all, we're tired too," Bree answers, "And secondly, your coronation isn't for another few days. We're taking advantage of the time we still have to roughhouse you because Jacob probably won't let us within five feet of you once you're proper royalty."
"I'm already proper royalty," Bella huffs sullenly, "And you truly don't think things will be different between us right? Nothing has to change-."
"Oh, stop with the sentimental nonsense for the night," Charlotte cuts in, "Are we not going to talk about the fact that my brother proposed to you?"
Once again, Bella's face floods with color. She has no control over the reaction; whenever anyone makes mention of Edward's display she's filled with awe. She'd had the King of Cullenia on his knees before her, and had even kissed him wildly in front of her subjects. He had publicly professed his love for her in a manner that was painfully ambiguous. But the question is: had it been a marriage proposal or a promise of an alliance between Forxx and Cullenia?
"Yes, it was a marriage proposal," Charlotte rolls her eyes, "I can see the confusion on your face, and I have to say I don't blame you. My brother is the dullest sword in the shed, but he should have known better."
"I thought it was wonderfully romantic," Claire sighs, "He pledged his country to you!"
"You only have two jobs when it comes to a proposal," Bree states as she holds up two fingers, "The first is to get the ring, and the second is to actually ask your significant other to marry you. Edward, King of Cullenia, failed at both."
"It was spur of the moment," Bella defends against Bree before throwing a pillow at Charlotte, "And do not insult your brother!"
"I swear, you become bolder with every nation you claim," Charlotte snips, amusement underlying her tone. She wraps her night robe around herself tightly as she stands to leave, "If you're going to ignore the fact that Edward proposed, and simultaneously defend his pathetic excuse for a declaration then I will go greet my bed."
"Emmett should still be in the main house, make sure he walks you back," Bella instructs.
"Goodnight, Isabelle Swann," Charlotte bids before tacking on at the end, "Queen of Denial."
Bella can't help but chuckle at the young girl and her dry personality that so greatly contrasted her earlier drunken behavior. While an exuberant Charlie is amusing, Bella knows she prefers this form of the Princess's personality.
"Now that the young ears are gone," Bree announces as she turns to Bella. Her wolfish smile doesn't bode well, "We must discuss the most important matter."
"Which is?" Bella asks.
"Sex, of course," Claire answers.
Lua huffs in annoyance as Bella attempts to scurry from the bed. With unmatched strength, Bree uses one finger to sling her back onto the mattress. Bella's body meets the surface quite roughly, causing the bed to groan.
"Was that really necessary?" Claire sighs.
"She was going to run," Bree defends, "And I don't know why she's acting so shy when her hand was down his breeches only hours ago."
"My hand was not-," Bella exclaims with a shout before lowering her volume to a scandalized whisper, "My hand was not in his breeches."
Even though her hand had been heading there …
"You need to take advantage of this moment, Bella," Bree continues, ignoring her friend's cringing, "I don't know what kind of education on sexual relations they had in cage-school, but I can't imagine it was extensive."
"Bree's right," Claire agrees, "Crude, but right. You need to know how to be careful-,"
"Never mind knowing how to be careful," Bree brushes off Claire, "You need to know how to give and receive the best pleasure! Have you ever achieved orgasm, Bella?"
This is it.
This is the end.
She had survived Aro and the radical Iris only to be killed from mortification. Why hadn't she absorbed any useful powers, like the ability to silence overzealous friends? Perhaps she should utilize her queenly capabilities and order Jacob to place Bree in a makeshift dungeon.
"Look at her face," Claire exclaims, "She absolutely has!"
"I don't see how this is your business," Bella again tries to evade.
"Would you like to know how to give Edward an orgasm?" Bree barrels on.
Bella is about to object once more, but she pauses mid-breath. She has to admit that her intrigue has been piqued.
"Now we've got her attention," Claire snickers, "Let's begin."
The next hour is spent discussing, in excruciating detail, the intricacies of sexual intercourse and deciphering Edward's possible proposal. The girls still can't decide whether or not Edward's declaration had literally meant the two would spend their lives together, or if he was simply declaring his support of her conquest to the throne. She doesn't believe that two miraculous things could happen in one night, so she's inclined to think that Edward hadn't been speaking of marriage. Nevertheless, her talk with Bree and Claire provide her with valuable information. Thankfully, she's so tired that when she's finally allowed to sleep, her overwhelmed thoughts don't keep her awake.
Seven hours later, she finds herself sitting at an oval table forged from iron. The warm surface tempts her to rest her face against the metal and reenter sleep. When Jacob had knocked insistently at her door early that morning, she'd barely been able to drag herself out of her bed. But somehow, she managed to get dressed in a timely manner and make it to the meeting with the council members. Now she sits, fighting against her urge to sleep while the members sift through the Constitution with her. It takes an hour and a half to read through its entirety. Bella has few objections, and the times when she isn't speaking, she studies those around her; all the members are present, as well as Jacob, Esme, Jasper, and Edward.
"Having gone through this document and making the necessary amendments, we can move forward," Didyme speaks, "More specifically we need to discuss your transition, Your Highness."
It takes Bella a moment to realize that she is whom Didyme is referring to. "Oh, yes, there are a few matters to iron out before my coronation," she catches, "But before we speak of this, I wanted to thank you all, especially for your work and devotedness in preserving Forxx. In no way do I wish to diminish your dedication to this nation. It is my priority to work peaceably alongside you."
"You could have fooled me," Billy grumbles under his breath.
Bella's immediate annoyance clears any sleepiness. She fixes Billy with a penetrating stare as she continues, "This being said, I want to emphasize that I will not tolerate any insubordination. I understand that I need to prove myself to some of you, but it still stands that I am now the ruler of Forxx, and I will be treated as such. If I feel that any disrespect is a threat to my ability to rule, I will exercise my full authority to strip any person of their membership. Are we clear, Billy Black?"
Billy blanches as he stutters out, "Yes, Cora."
"Wonderful," Bella nods, newly invigorated. "Now that I've settled that matter, I think it should follow that I establish who will be part of my advisory council. Understand that trust is a reciprocal endeavor; I, too, do not know you all well. I will need your help in conducting affairs efficiently and will be transparent with you, but I also would like those closest to me to be my immediate advisors."
Didyme nods warily, but in understanding, "Of course, Cora. They will be your cen'uo."
"Precisely," Bella responds, "My cen'uo will consist of Sola Bree Tanner, Luna Claire Young, and Luna Lucy Vignali. Luna Jacob Black will be my Hand, and the council will remain with the addition of Luna Jasper Whitlock as an official councilmember."
Silence meets her as she finishes. Bella raises a brow as she asks, "Are there any objections?"
"No, Cora," they respond in unison.
"However, I do have a question," Caius speaks, "I assume you did not include His Majesty, King Edward in your cen'uo since he will be King Consort?"
Bella can practically feel herself paling, as his words sink in. If Caius is questioning whether Edward will be King Consort, then it seems she was proposed to the night before. Does this mean that Edward had taken her kiss as an acceptance? She looks over to where Edward sits with a confused expression, most likely wondering why she hasn't agreed with Caius. Thankfully, Didyme speaks so that she doesn't need to.
"The two have hardly had the time to speak of any logistics," Didyme points out, "We will allow them a few days to consult before we proceed. Now there is the matter of Swann Castle …"
The next three hours are spent discussing the rebuilding of the castle, as well as the beginning of recruitment and training for a Forxian army. Knowing that she needs to step up as their leader, Bella actively participates, offering ideas and constructive criticism when needed. She agrees that she'll need an official residence in Forxx, and therefore supports renovating the defunct castle, but she also asserts that military strengthening is the priority. She makes known all the information she's acquired on both Aro and the Guardians and in turn learns of past national defenses that have been attempted. There haven't been any fully organized armies in the past few decades, which means it will be difficult to get the willing soldiers up to date in combat.
When the meeting is over, Bella shamelessly ignores Edward as he calls after her. She knows it's awfully childish, but she uses Bree and Claire as buffers so that he's unable to reach her for the majority of the day. Truthfully, she doesn't know why she feels the need to avoid him so drastically, but she can't bring herself to face him after the awkward encounter in the meeting.
In the ninth hour of the night, Edward seems to have reached his capacity for tolerance. As Bella is playing a game of chess with Claire, he leans down to sweetly whisper in her ear,
"Cora di tr'ea n'ocias, may I have a word with you?"
Bella clears her throat, "It would be rude for me to abandon Claire -,"
"Luna Claire," Edward turns his charm on her, "Would you mind terribly if I took Bella away from you for a moment?"
"By all means, Your Highness," Claire smiles shyly, as she stands to leave, "I'll give you the room."
Bella is barely able to call out an objection before her friend slips out of the cabin. She turns to the crackling fireplace to fix her eyes on anything other than the man that steps close behind her. Once his chest meets her back, any illusions of her continuing to ignore him are shattered. The heat traveling through her body is not from the fire in front of her, but from his palms as they slide from the curve of her waist to the flat of her stomach. She shudders beneath his touch and sinks against his frame. As Edward dips down to run the tip of his nose along the column of her exposed neck, she closes her eyes with a sigh.
"You've been avoiding me," he mumbles near her skin.
"There's an interesting explanation for that …" Bella begins as he turns her around to face him. She opens her eyes to catch his gaze as he walks them backward to the loveseat. They topple rather clumsily, but somehow Edward manages to right her so that she's seated across his lap.
"You don't need to explain," he shakes his head, "Charlotte spoke to me already."
"About what?" Bella asks, thoroughly confused. Charlotte is the furthest person from her mind when she's together with Edward like this. She doesn't know when they'd decided to be so bold with their affections, but she likes this change in pace.
"If you look at me like that I won't be able to remain honorable with you," Edward grunts.
"Then positioning me on your lap was not the wisest decision," Bella murmurs as she moves to straddle him. Why had she been avoiding Edward again? An answer to this question evades her as she gently presses her lips to his. He breathes in sharply when he feels her hips stir.
"Bella," he pulls back, after exchanging a few heated kisses, "I want you, but we need to talk. I was a complete fool."
Bella sighs as she leans back, "What did Charlotte tell you?"
"Something that I should have known from before," he shakes his head, "I hope you don't feel insulted by my unplanned proposal. When I asked you to marry me, I was so caught up in the moment that I didn't think."
A pang of hurt blooms in Bella's chest, "Does that mean … did you not mean it?"
Edward's eyes widen immediately as he splutters to correct himself, "No! No, that's not what I mean. I mean I meant it, but-,"
"Edward," Bella presses a finger to his lips to stop him briefly, "Slow down."
He nods, and takes a large breath to calm himself. Composure returns to him after a few more seconds, and then he is finally able to speak; "You have just reached a major milestone in your life by accepting the crown. When I saw you standing on the stage, it hit me that I want to be with you for every step you take through this journey. I want to be beside you on the battlefield and in the throne room, and I needyou to be beside me as I embark on regaining a hold of Cullenia."
"So this is merely a political move?" she questions, "Because not too long ago you were unsure whether you could forgive me and now …"
"It has political ramifications, but the way I feel for you is anything but political," he promises, "I … I never apologized, nor thanked you for your role in bringing Charlotte and me to safety. I realize now how blessed I was to have a protector who was not only a Guardian but also a friend. And now I want to be there for you as those things and more. I want to be your partner, Bella, someone who will love you and be by your side forever.
"Edward," Bella starts.
"I don't have a ring," he admits with embarrassment, "and if we're being honest, I don't really have an organized country either. But I'm giving you me, and I'm hoping that's good enough for now. So, Isabelle Marie Swann, Queen of three nations, will you marry me?"
Stunned, Bella can do little else but meet his penetrating gaze. She sees nothing but sincerity and love in his eyes, and the two have blocked out any traces of betrayal he had once held against her. Her eyes well as her chest fills, and she finally regains control over her body so that she can move a hand to his face. The bow of his mouth and dimple of his chin calls to her lips, but she knows he's waiting for a verbal answer.
"Yes," she replies with a blinding smile, a laugh of joy bubbling out of her, "Yes!"
His arms wind around her back and crush her against him, his lips pressed tightly against hers. Their kiss is heated and unbridled, a clash of soft flesh and teeth. Bella wants nothing more than to get lost in the passionate engagement, but there's one last thing she needs to say to him before they embark on their pleasure.
"Oh, and Edward," She gasps as she pulls back, "You are more than enough."
Terminology
Cora di tr'ea n'ocias-Queen of Three Nations [Forxian]
Cen'uo –"Core" [Forxian]. This group of members serves as the personal advisory board for the monarch. They are the first to hear of the monarch's ideas/plans and are also meant to provide emotional support and encouragement.
A/N: Now that you've read this: when writing I always try to think of criticisms for my plot choices. This being said, I have a feeling that there may be a few of you who will not like this sudden marriage proposal, and I hope you trust me enough at this point to stick with me. As always, I love hearing every bit of feedback, even if you don't agree!
~CH
"The strongest love is the love that can demonstrate its fragility."
― Paulo Coelho, Eleven Minutes