Sorry for the extra week break in between posting. RL sometimes doesn't always run like clockwork. I am glad the overall reaction to my version of the Volturi was well received.

Thank you to the wonderful women who have worked hard in making this story look pretty for y'all - JamesRamsey, AlexisDanaan, JaspersWoman and DarkNNerdy. They've been reading this for well over a year now so once in a while, a break is needed.

As always, I don't own it, I just like to play with the characters.

Chapter 50

JPOV

The meeting in the conservatory had been interesting so far. I didn't expect the kings to take the time and talk to us like they did. It was a little surreal and because of that, I kept a close monitor of their emotions the whole time. As far as I was concerned, if there was any danger, I needed to, first and foremost, protect Isabella.

As we sat there listening to the kings earlier, before the break, I thought that their backstory was interesting, I knew they had been around for a long time but I didn't realize how much they must have seen; their very eyes have seen the evolution of man from the Ancient world to the 21st century. My mind almost drifted off thinking of all the possibilities until they mentioned werewolves. The story and the outcome was a little surprising but I guess we, ourselves, were mythical creatures so it shouldn't have been that much of a shock that other ones existed as well. Or, in this case, they existed at one time.

I was afraid that some of the things they mentioned, namely the way they duped Carlisle, would shock Isabella. I was ready to send a stream of calm to her, but could hear her heartbeat slow when I touched her and I was relieved. I thought it was almost comical that they created such elaborate stories just to play on Carlisle and how those stories had spread to other vampires over the years. Even though I thought some of the myths and legends they created for themselves were crazy, I could see why they wanted to keep the reality closely guarded. In all, the three kings didn't seem to be the same ruthless beings that I thought them to be.

As I waited for Isabella to return from taking care of her needs, I was relieved that we had decided to make the trip after all. The answers I received helped lessen the anxiety I've had over changing Isabella. The alternative, having my venom injected into her, wasn't ideal but would work if my instincts somehow failed when the time came. I immediately thought that I'd go ahead soon and fill a few vials up just as insurance in case something were to happen.

As the two of us sat down to wait for the others to arrive, I couldn't help but notice a small hint of trust that radiated off of Isabella. It wasn't the same, strong trust she had with me so I guessed that it might have been for Marcus and maybe even for the other Volturi leaders. I could see that Marcus was indeed fond of her and there was no ill will from the others towards her. I was still a little on edge though, being here in Volterra was a little unnerving, but I wasn't as agitated as I was when we first saw the guard, Demetri, at the airport.

Within a few minutes, Peter and Char arrived and sat down next to us. Aro and Caius also arrived and sat next to Marcus. The three of them conferred in vampire speed and I was only able to catch some phrases that sounded very close to Latin. If I had to venture a guess, they were using an ancient language from their human time.

"Marcus tells us you had a good discussion with him and Gianna?" Aro asked with a smile.

Isabella and I both nodded.

"Yes, thank you again for taking the time to answer our questions," she replied.

"The three of us want to extend your welcome. You have an open invitation to Volterra. Have you thought about maybe working with us, the same way as your brother and sister?" Caius asked.

I had a feeling this was the case. Honestly though from what Carlisle said of them, I expected it to sound more like a command that we be a part of their guard because of the gifts we both possessed.

"May I speak frankly?" I asked.

"Of course, that is why we're here," Caius answered.

I explained my concerns based on Carlisle's interpretation of the Volturi and when I was done, Aro stood up.

"I understand why you'd be concerned. That isn't the case at all. We do not, as Carlisle put it, collect guards because of their gifts. He probably assumed that given what we said about Chelsea's fake gift and how we would manipulate others into false loyalty. All our guards are here of their own free will and as such, they can leave at any time." He looked up onto the roof of the conservatory. "Maybe it is our fault for creating such falsehoods and now we're dealing with what is real and what is fiction. The guards don't leave because they have a good life here. If they choose to leave, we still take care of them because they will always be a part of our family."

"My brother's right, we don't force them here and during your stay, please feel free to converse with the guards. They will tell you and with your gift, Jasper, you'll be able to tell if they're not speaking the truth," Marcus explained.

"I appreciate the gesture," I replied. "You've been quite generous in your hospitality. Isabella and I won't make a decision yet because the two of us will take the time to discuss our future and how the Volturi will play into it."

"I believe my brothers will agree with my sentiments when I say that there is no rush," Caius said. "So tell me, Isabella, what are you studying? I understand that you're at a university in Texas?"

Isabella nodded as she cleared her throat. "Y-yes, I am a freshman at Sam Houston State University, College of Criminal Justice. Before getting to know Jasper, I had wanted a career related to law enforcement. Not actually as a peace officer, but either in forensics science or criminology." She looked at the men and smiled. "At least, that was the intent until I met Jasper. I hope to finish my degree one day."

I was filled with pride when she spoke to them. She wasn't frightened and composed herself despite the twinges of nervousness coming from her.

Aro stood up and looked at Isabella with a smile. I could tell he had a fondness for her and so did the other two kings. If it weren't for the fact that their emotions were familial, I would probably have landed myself in a dungeon for being overly possessive and protective of my woman.

"If you consider working with us in some capacity, we do have connections to the finest universities the world has to offer. Many of my guards have gone to them - Oxford, the Sorbonne, in the early part of last century, Felix studied at the Bauhaus..." he drifted off a split second as though he was lost in past memories. "There is no obligation, but I think my brothers and I are hopeful you'll consider."

Isabella nodded just as I was about to say something. "Why us?" she blurted out. "I mean no disrespect since you've been so sincere, but I don't understand why you're being so kind and honest to us."

I groaned inwardly as the words left her mouth, hoping that she didn't set the kings off in any way. At the same time, her outburst was exactly what I was thinking so I couldn't be more proud of her at that point.

Marcus chuckled before clearing his throat. "I do appreciate your candor, it isn't often that we see that amongst what you might call 'our subjects'," he replied. "So often when we meet folks, they run around trying to give us answers they think we'd like to hear. Maybe it is our reputation that precedes us, causing us to appear larger than life. Whatever the case is, it gets to be mundane. As for your question, well, the three of us have wanted to meet your husband for a long time now especially since he's no longer allied with Maria. We understand the circumstances for the vampire wars back in those days. We have seen countless wars, both humans and vampires alike to understand and admire your survival."

"When your brother and sister arrived months ago we learned about you, Isabella," Aro broke in almost seamlessly adding to Marcus' train of thought. "I mean, we knew of you and your connection to Jasper and we also knew that you are human. I know Marcus and Gianna were rather excited to learn of your connection with each other. It isn't often that vampires find their mates while they are still human but when it happens, it is a wonderful thing. We didn't want to push for a visit but we were hoping to meet you both."

"We also wanted to see if we could solicit Jasper's help," Caius said earning some cold stares from his brothers. "I know we weren't going to mention this today but in the spirit of being honest, I need to make sure you both are aware of it."

Isabella looked at all three brothers and then at me before returning her gaze at them. "You need his help? This is the reason for the pain thing yesterday right? Whatever this Maria situation is, you want him to help you," she replied, all but growling out that woman's name.

Caius nodded. "Yes, she's planning something, but we don't know what. All we know is she's got her sights on us and we'd need some guidance."

I stood up and pulled Isabella against me as Caius' confirmation caused her anxiety to spike. "Let's table this conversation for another day, gentlemen. My wife is a little upset over your revelation and I think we need some time to decompress from that bombshell."

"Yes, yes of course," Aro replied. "We can discuss this tomorrow perhaps? Before you go, know that whatever decision you come up with regards to our growing problem, we will make sure you're both safe here in Volterra. That being said, we've gotten word that there is a spy here, but we are almost certain they aren't in the castle. It may be one of the merchants or someone similar. Please heed our advice and do not travel alone. The bigger the crowd, the better; and if you're going to experience the nightlife, I am sure some of the guards would be willing to accompany you as well."

"Thank you for your hospitality, we will come back tomorrow." I looked at Isabella gauging her emotions to make sure she was in agreement.

"We'll be back in the morning," she whispered, her eyes barely leaving mine.

The kings agreed and we said our goodbyes. Marcus even asked Isabella what her favorite dishes were so he could have something prepared for both her and Gianna. We then followed Peter and Char as they led us through the maze of corridors and back out to the lobby area.

"We're going on a private track to race, by the way," Peter said as we waved to Rosa. "That is, if you're still wantin' to race."

"I could use the distraction," Isabella said. "It is a safe course for humans to be on, right?"

"Yes, little one, it is just like a Formula 1 race course but it isn't being used at the moment. Demetri and his fellow guard, Felix, have built this track because of their love for racing and hope to lure the Formula 1 people to use the track for a race or even practice grounds. It isn't far from here but it is safe."

I led Isabella into the car and told Peter I'd follow him.

"Oh, Felix will be there and will man the lights, our women can stay in the car with us," Peter said loud enough for Isabella to hear. I could see her rolling her eyes at the statement but she couldn't hide her amusement.

"Felix?" I asked. "He knows we're coming?"

"Yeah, Demetri and I talked to him while you were talking to Marcus and Gianna. He's cool with us coming over. He's been racing some Alfa Romeos around today to make sure they're up to par for the Kings. C'mon, bro, quit stalling and let's go!"

I got into the car and started the engine, hearing the immediate sigh of relief from Isabella.

"You alright, baby girl?" I asked as I followed Peter's tail lights.

"Yeah," she said and grimaced. "That last part... I'm sorry for the outburst like that, I didn't want to ask about their intentions with you, but my curiosity got the best of me, and well, maybe even my patience. I had to know."

I took her hand and brought it up to my lips. "Nonsense, I was thinking the same thing and when you said it, I just hoped you didn't piss them off, but the three of them are genuinely fond of you."

"Fond of me?" she asked. "Like I was food?"

I laughed at the expression on her face. "No, baby girl, like you're family... not quite like a parent, but still a family member...maybe like you were their niece or something. There is no bloodlust coming from them when you're around them. They honestly don't see you as a meal at all."

"Like a real family from what they said earlier?" she said, almost wistful.

I nodded, understanding where she was coming from. "Yeah, I won't know for sure until after meeting some of their other guards."

"Wouldn't that be something?" she replied. "I mean, Carlisle had this image of the Volturi being these power mongers and he's even instilled his beliefs in the rest of his family. The irony is, when the going got too tough, they abandoned their so-called family without a second thought. Now if what the Volturi said is true and they do take care of their family, then well, the joke's still on the Cullens right?"

"Yeah, I see your point," I said and laughed. "Who would have thought that I'd ever have a civil conversation, let alone be in Volterra. First she planted falsehoods about them so our forced loyalty was for her and not anybody else. Then the Cullens being played by the Volturi further led me to think I'd be doused in kerosene and set on fire at first sight."

"Well, I'm glad that didn't happen and they actually said they had wanted to meet you. I'm a little nervous about this whole Maria thing though," she said and squeezed my hand. "I don't want anything to happen to you."

"I won't let it, but I am curious what they want. They mentioned guidance so we'll have to see. I think we're almost there. Look." I pointed out the windshield at the course that was ahead.

"You're not going to crash like those races we have watched with Peter and Char, are you?" she said warily as I turned onto the track.

"No baby girl, we will be fine, I'll keep you safe," I whispered to her ear as I turned stopped the car.

Felix greeted the four of us and then showed us the course layout. Isabella was a little intimidated by his stature and stayed close to me. He was probably bigger than Emmett and had a very serious look on his face when he greeted us. If Felix had noticed, he was unaffected by it and was polite nonetheless. He even offered to get us all fire suits and helmets to add to the effect but I had a feeling he wanted to make sure Isabella was comfortable. She smiled and shook her head, thanking him for the offer. He shrugged before pointing to the stand where he would be before speeding off.

We got back into the cars once again and instead of switching the lights on, he dropped a flag and the two of us sped off. We were neck and neck for the first couple turns and as the tires squealed, so did Isabella. She wasn't scared though, she was laughing and clapping her hands like a little kid as she cheered us on.

"Shit, Jasper, they're gaining on us! Oh! Hairpin turn!" she exclaimed, grabbing onto the door handle. "Faster, Jasper, go!"

I laughed as she continued her outbursts. We were ahead of my brother and sister by a couple feet and they were inching faster. I maneuvered the turns smoothly and knew that we were on the last part of the course and that Felix had promised to film the finish in case it was close.

"Go! Come on, we're almost there!" she yelled as she kept a close eye on the other Audi.

When we did cross, it was a photo finish with Peter's car getting that last minute surge of speed. I stopped the car and helped Isabella out as she laughed and hugged Char. The five of us went back to the media area and watched as Felix pulled the film up and we watched the last part of the race on a big screen.

"Double or nothing, that we won," Peter exclaimed just before the cars entered the final turn.

"Sure, why not," I said and shook his hand. I looked over at Isabella and she rolled her eyes at the two of us while she ran her hand up and down my back.

As it turned out, we lost by a couple inches much to the delight of Peter who ended up doing some crazy victory dance in front of us. I didn't know if watching that was amusing or Char's look of mortification, but we all had a good laugh over it even though I was down a thousand Euro from the bet.

I had to admit, as we spent time away from the castle with this other Volturi guard, that my views of them were wavering more. They weren't the enemy I was always ingrained to believe. While it was still too soon to call them allies or even friends, a part of me felt as though things could actually end up that way. There was no ill feelings towards me and most importantly, I didn't feel as though Isabella was in any sort of danger from bloodlust.

"How long will you be visiting Volterra?" Felix asked, breaking my train of thought.

"Until Friday, those two have classes," Peter replied and pointed to us.

"University? What are you studying?" Felix looked at the two of us and smiled.

"Sam Houston State and we've been taking Criminal Justice classes together," Isabella explained as she moved slightly closer to me. She was still wary of Felix but less so now that he was more engaged.

"We should all go somewhere and have a night out," Felix suggested. "A few of us guards own a nightclub that is an hour away from the castle. It is very popular and we get our fair share of regulars and tourists alike." He looked over at Isabella. "Signora Whitlock, you will be perfectly safe. I assure you and your husband that no harm will come to you."

"Thank you, Felix," Isabella replied before turning to look at me with an expectant look on her face. "And please, you don't need to be so formal."

"Sure, I think a night on the town will be fun," I said, my eyes never leaving Isabella's.

"Eccelente! I'll tell Chelsea, Renata, Demetri, Jane and Alec. You've met my Heidi already and everybody has been waiting to meet the two of you in a less royal environment."

I sent him a quick dose of my appreciation and watched his reaction. He was shocked at first but then grinned and nodded as we all shook his hand and then headed back to our cars.

"What's the plan for tonight?" Char asked.

"I need to get some food," Isabella said. "What do you want to do?"

"Follow us, there is a town next to where y'all are staying and we can find something there for your dinner. Afterwards, in their town square area, they have live music and dancin'. Mind you, it isn't fancy, usually local folk music but Peter and I have gone and danced a few times during our visits out here before."

I could tell just from the elevated heartbeat that my woman was excited so I nodded and agreed to follow my siblings once again.

When we got to the town, we parked and Isabella and I went off to find a place for her to eat. There was a small restaurant that looked popular and from some of the passing conversations I caught, it sounded as though it was the place to go for a good meal. We were seated near the open patio and after helping her translate the menu, I leaned back and took in the atmosphere.

Her food came and she must have been hungry since it didn't take her long to finish. We stayed there for a little while longer until music could be heard coming from outside. We found Peter and Char as strings of light started to brighten up the street. The four of us found space by the town's fountain and we started to dance.

As soon as our hands touched and my arm was around her waist, the world disappeared around us. We could have been in our own backyard for that matter. There was no Volturi or impending talks about my maker. It was just the two of us as we laughed and twirled, letting our love wrap around us. We danced for what felt like hours and a couple times, we even switched off so I danced with Char and Isabella danced with Peter. When the final song was played and the band left, the four of us went back to our rental cars and sped off. By the time we reached the house, Isabella had dozed off. She didn't wake until I had gotten us inside the house and was starting to take her clothes off.

"Night, Jasper," she mumbled as she climbed into bed. "I love you."

"Love you too, baby girl," I whispered as her breath against my neck slowed and she fell asleep.

NOTES:

Some serious stuff mixed with fun stuff. Did you enjoy it?

On a different note, anybody watching Arrow? OMG, I'm hooked. Such a fun tv show to watch! :) Until next time, sushi.