A/N: We do not own Twilight, make money off of it, or anything like that. We do enjoy fucking with Edward although this chapter is solely us fucking with Jasper and a handful of OC's. For the sake of time and bad translations, assume that once they are in Italy, everyone is speaking Italian except for Seth.

DS16: JPOV: Italy

Release. I found my release last night and it was the only release I'll ever find from this life. I don't deserve him, not with the terrible things I've done in my past. But perhaps in fixing Edward, I can find some semblance of a salvation.

We parted as "friends," as if that term could ever apply to us. Each time he called me "sir," I was reminded that I would soon be utilizing the phrase "yes, Master" in order to maintain my life. That was in part why I did not ask him to call me "master," but only "sir" when we were together. Master was an honorific I would only use when I had to. I preferred to relegate its use solely with Aro's slaves.

At least I was able to see that faint blush grace his cheeks one last time. If Aro is not pleased with the subs I have ready for presentation, there are two routes for my life. One, is to lose my position as a trainer and become a slave. I have little love of that life and may actually prefer the second option which is a final release of my guilt, my own death.

Becoming a slave, a sub with no chance of release except through sale to a new master, would cause me to seek an end to my life. Aro knew that in taking me back onto his payroll that I would never tolerate that life well. Maria had broken me beyond repair and the glue used to piece me back together expired often. Since gaining Edward in my life, I had found to a degree, that some of the smaller cracks were being fused back together as if he had taken a piece of pottery and smoothed it with slip, leaving the join nearly flawless.

Throughout the entire flight, I checked my phone and pager every few minutes. Perhaps if a patient had dire need of me, Aro would let me reschedule. Who was I kidding? Short of an emergent health issue of my own, there would be no respite from this trip.

Seth slept most of the time and was not the best of company. I forced myself to stay awake despite my lack of sleep last night. Exhaustion was the only way I would sleep in the kennel.

When we arrived, Felix and Demetri, two of Maria's former guards, were there to greet Seth and me. They were surprised by my companion although did not say anything until we were in their car. I knew that Seth did not speak Italian so I worried little of what they would say. From our previous experience, I knew that they would not be allowed to touch me unless I deliberately broke an order from Aro. Their words meant nothing to me except for their jealousy that I was on the outside and they were not.

"Welcome back, trainer." Felix's voice was filled with disdain. He had not been happy to be pulled back into Aro's clutches after Maria's death. My first trip to Italy as Eleazar's sub had been filled with Felix and Demetri abusing me every chance they could find until Aro saw and specifically ordered them not to touch me. They both train subs yet each still wears the collar of a slave as Aro would never sell them. They have been with him too long. They were his protectors before Maria and once again after her disposal.

Seth looked at me, his brown eyes so dark that they were nearly black. I nodded and he looked back down. "Sir, will I see Master Eleazar when we arrive?"

"If it pleases Master Aro and Master Eleazar, you may. Be a good sub and our masters may reward you for good behavior."

As the car pulled under the arch of Volterra, I knew that I had exactly three minutes before we entered the underground parking for their towers. The moment we started down the ramp toward the locked gate I turned to Seth and gave him the last order he'd receive from me before we left. "Strip. Place your shoes and clothing in the empty shopping bag beneath your seat."

I stripped down until I was naked, placing everything within the bag. As a medical professional, Aro knew that my pager and phone could not be turned off as it would cause more inquiry into his business than he wanted to deal with. If he could prevent paying off more police or investigators, he would. Instead, Seth's and my bags would be given to Eleazar who would bring them to me in case of an emergency.

Alec was waiting outside the car the moment it came to a stop. He had two robes and he wrapped us each in one before stepping inside. Alec and his sister, Jane, the evil bitch that she is, had been away on a vacation the last time I was in Volterra. As he cinched my robe, his fingers brushed my cock, and he smiled as I looked away.

"Master says if I continue to behave, he'll let me taste you again."

I fought back the shiver. The last time Alec was allowed anywhere near my dick, he'd wanted to see what my pain threshold was involving his teeth and my flesh. After his demonstration, I welcomed the pain of a cock cage and begged for a night in it instead of an hour with Alec. My pleas had amused Aro and he was content to let me whimper on the floor on a dog's bed while my dick throbbed.

He motioned Seth and I forward, signing us in at the front desk. Gianna was seated there, looking bored as she performed some basic data entry. She longs to be paddled but Aro refuses to take her on as a sub. He feels that her dedication is ensured as long as she always desires what she won't receive, in hopes that he'll accept her into the program. Gianna handles the paperwork for their law office, the front for all of their money which is then laundered through the program and their international offices.

I gave her a rather flirtatious smile, causing her to blush. If I ever have to run for it, her door is the one I'd get out of in a heart beat. Emotional manipulation may put me on Santa's naughty list, but it could save my life.

"Bracelets please."

At Alec's request, Gianna reached down and unlocked a drawer, taking out two small metal bands, each with the V logo embossed upon them. I offered out my arm, knowing that resistance would only get me pinned down. Compliance would get me everywhere.

The bracelets were merely identifying us as subs and for cataloging. We were handled as merchandise, each given a bar code, so to speak, and a value. Seth was cheap, around fifty thousand. I knew my price tag. Eleazar set it himself when he bought me as his personal sub trainer. Nine hundred thousand dollars was what he paid for my semblance of freedom.

Aro saw my potential once Eleazar had me under control again. I was not too far gone, although more willful than he liked. Eleazar had spent months working with me at fighting my flashbacks and panic attacks. Eventually I was taught how to shut down everything in my mind and just submit. It's so much easier this way.

As a trainer, I absorb all of my sub's pain, taking it into myself so that they can be numb. Edward has overloaded me, to a degree, and finding my own tabula rasa will be a welcome break. If only I could find my internal peace without the collar and whips. One day perhaps. One day when there are no more subs who need me.

A hand on my lower back propelled me forward to a sliding glass door with a scanner. I slid my bracelet across it, the bar code on the bottom scanning me into the program. It was not my tracking bracelet. That would be put on my ankle later if Aro thought I needed it.

"Down."

Alec pointed to the carpet the moment we were inside and the doors sealed behind us. Seth and I dropped to our knees and crawled, the robes billowing out around our legs. Alec kicked me in the back of my thigh, his boot digging into the muscles. I would be bruised. At least I hadn't given him the satisfaction of a yelp or seeing me fall forward onto my face.

We were directed to the main reception chamber. Aro, Marcus, and Caius were sitting in three large leather wingback chairs, Eleazar seated in a smaller chair across from them. He was dressed in a very elegant charcoal suit and looked much more rested than I'd seen him in ages. Here he was doted on as a distinguished guest as long as he bowed his head and gave in to all of his master's whims. As long as he whipped me as hard as Aro wished, that is.

I could hear Alec take in a deep breath to announce us as well and began to strip off the robe. I left it in a pile at his feet and crawled to Aro's chair, ignoring the smoke from his cigar and rested my forehead upon his feet. Show was everything with him.

"Submissives number three hundred twelve and fourteen hundred seventy six, as you requested, Master. They have just arrived."

Alec's voice was rich with disdain, he didn't like me leaving his side. Too bad, witch twin. You and your sister won't get the pleasure of touching me this time. If I behave well, he may grant me a freedom like Eleazar's. As long as I work for him and do as he asks, publicly and to his face at least, I am free.

His cold, dry fingers came down and stroked across the scars he'd given me at Maria's. God, how I wished I'd killed you as well. No, Jasper. For better or for worse, he is your master. You don't hurt your master. He only wants what is best for you, he wants to see you get better. He knows that the collar makes your guilt go away. Aro will take care of your needs. Just let down your walls and he will help you, Jasper.

"Welcome home, my pet. You've been missed. Be a good boy and kneel up. Let me look at you."

Hard. He'll want me hard. My mind drifted to a fantasy I hadn't had in a few weeks. Bella, a short skirt, no panties, bent over my desk. Or on the couch in my office. My cock being milked by her pussy until we're both writhing. Me fucking her over the mattresses where Edward jacked off while he watches. Would he like to see that?

My cock stiffened at my thoughts of taking Bella from behind. Or perhaps I should sit on the couch and let her kiss me like she'd wanted to at our last office visit. I could pull her into my lap and sheathe myself in her hot, wet, tight cunt and listen to her scream my name as I made her come.

Aro took in my hard cock, my well muscled chest, abdomen, and back, as well as the leanly muscled arms and legs he'd often praised in me before. I kept my eyes trained on the floor as he stood up and looked me over. When his hand came down atop my head and patted me as if I were a dog I was equally proud and mortified. Proud that my master was pleased with my physique and mortified that I would enjoy his attention.

"Go greet your other master. He has been beside himself without you this past day."

At his demand, I quickly crawled around the table to Eleazar and rested my head on his knee as he preferred. His fingers curled into my hair as he often did after a difficult scene. He knew that it was comforting. It was as if I was broadcasting my insecurity, my confusion at my reactions and he was trying to give me a chance to balance.

"Seth, go greet Master Aro."

Eleazar's hand clenched around my strands as he ordered Seth across the room. "Strip first, you know better." His voice was hard. I did not envy Seth tonight.

Seth stopped a few paces from Alec, disrobed quickly, and finally crawled to Aro, mimicking my prior position. While Aro looked him over, a touch of disinterest on his face, Alec brought the bags containing our personal belongings to Eleazar. Our clothing had been taken to be cleaned and would be returned to us upon need.

Eleazar's hand stroked down my head to my neck where he massaged lightly. "Go to my room, Jasper. Tower three, room five. It was a long flight for you and I know it must have been difficult bringing Seth here on his first trip. Master Aro was pleased with the progress report I gave on you and has granted you a reprieve until morning. I've left you a gift in my room. When we've finished with Seth, I'll have him sent to you. Show him the kennel and have him prepared for the night. Go."

"Yes, Sir. Thank you, Sir." I touched my lips to his knee and then turned and touched my head to the floor in Aro's direction. "Thank you, Master."

I crawled, backwards, from the room until I was past the door. Alec closed it behind me. I quickly stood and cracked my neck.

"Bye now."

I gave him a wink and took off at a jog for the North tower. I could find my way in my sleep. I had to wave my bracelet at the door leaving the offices and again as I entered the residential tower. It would not register which room I was in, merely that I was in that segment of "the castle" as the Volturi brothers dubbed their home and compound.

I climbed the stairs to the third floor. The stairs wound up a central stone staircase with a single landing leading to two doors on each floor. Each suite took up half of the tower in this set of rooms.

Eleazar's door was ajar and as my steps sounded on the stone outside the carpet of the room, a soft giggle was heard. I knew that giggle. Shortly after the voice giggled once more, a "shh" sounded.

I let myself in and quietly latched the door. I peeked my head around the corner and saw two blonds stretched out across the bed. They were stroking the side of one another's faces. I couldn't resist and sprinted the length of the room and did a belly flop onto the bed, earning squeals of delight as I landed next to them.

"Master J! You're back!"

Emily pulled me down for a kiss just as Isabel ran her hand down to my cock. I smiled against Emily's lips as she kissed me and then I cupped her cheeks, raining kisses down over her forehead and across the gentle slopes beneath her eyes and down along her jaw. I moved one arm to Isabel and brought her up into our kiss.

"I've missed you, my darlin's. Have you been behaving well for Master Aro?"

Isabel bit her lip and gave me a shy glance. Both of them grinned and then said yes while they looked toward the overstuffed settee in the corner. Emily kissed her way to my ear and nibbled on the lobe.

"The disk you've been looking for was copied and is under the cushion." She moved her lips to behind my ear and said more loudly, "Oh, Jasper! Do you want to see what I've taught our little Izzy?"

I nodded, knowing that sub or not, she was going to show me regardless of how I answered. Once Emily had her mind set on something, it would take a full out order to make her halt. She moved away from me and stretched out on the bed. Isabel quickly climbed on top of her in a sixty-nine, their shaved pussies quickly being teased with tongues and fingers.

I sat back against the headboard and watched, my cock in hand though it went mostly untouched. At my angle, every now and then when Emily's hips bucked particularly hard against Isabel's face I saw a glimmer of silver. I crawled over to them, placing a line of kisses along Izzy's spine, starting at the small of her back and working to her neck.

I bit her ear lobe firmly, tugging it between my teeth. I released it, my tongue flicking along my teeth marks. "Baby, can I take over for a minute? Sit up and let Emily work on your lovely pussy." My voice was a rough purr. Her eyes were dark and half closed with lust as she pushed down on the bed to leverage herself upright.

I flattened myself on the mattress and pushed Emily's thighs wide. There, just above her clit was a piercing. I lowered my mouth to her slit and gave her one long slow lick, ending on her clit. I let out a growl against the piercing.

Emily paused her ministrations, she knew she'd been caught. I dove back in, tongue fucking her until she was moaning against Isabel. I took her just to the edge and then stopped.

Emily pulled back from Isabel, pleading with her eyes and eventually her voice. "Please more. So close."

I leaned over her and nipped at the skin of her inner thigh. I flicked my tongue over her clit again. Her answering groan onto Isabel's pussy sent the blond little pixie into the first of many orgasms. I sat back, enjoying Emily's keening wail as she was yet again denied her own pleasure.

I clucked my tongue at her. "Now, now, Emily. Someone unauthorized by your master was touching your privates. Why should I let you come?"

Isabel climbed off of her and did a cat stretch beside us, her head resting near my thighs. I leaned over and kissed her temple. She was so willing to learn as I broke her in and was such a darling. It was no surprise when Aro chose her. Jane was less than pleased to have another petite blond fighting for Aro's affections. One would think she honestly enjoyed him.

I would guess he was only in his late fifties or early sixties based upon appearance but he has looked the same since I met him at Maria's. The beauty of Botox and other skin treatments. Now if only a dermatologist could do something about Aro's hands that feel as if they belong to a corpse or at least someone three times his age.

Emily looked up at me, holding her arms up to me. I settled my weight down onto her, my cock away from her pussy where I longed to bury it. I kissed her, my tongue enjoying the flavor of Isabel on Emily's lips. She began to grind against me, wanting more.

"Bad girl."

I moved away and sat down, pulling Emily across my lap. I reached above the headboard without looking. I knew the paddle would be hanging there. She cried out as the first sting set in and then quickly regained her composure for the subsequent paddles.

When her ass was a lovely shade of red I had her get up. I slid off of the bed and went to Eleazar's toy cupboard. I grabbed the strap on he had in his collection, as well as a harness. I tossed them to Emily and had her put it on. She gave me a slight pout before her lips curved into a smile.

I laid between the pillows and had Isabel straddle my hips, my cock slowly entering her tight pussy. Emily moved behind her and gently pushed Isabel down over my chest. I reached down and held her hips as Emily lubed up the dildo.

Isabel hissed and then groaned in ecstasy as she was filled. I could feel the dildo sliding against my cock, only a thin layer of skin separating us. How I longed to do this with Bella between Edward and me. She was hot and so very wet. Emily had done a good job getting her ready for me.

After she had time to adjust, I began to thrust slowly, letting Emily settle into the same rhythm. Isabel moved against us, burying me deeper inside her. I reached between us, pinching her nipples as my hand descended down her soft skin to rest at the top of her slit.

She bucked against my hand as I stroked her clit with the tip of my middle finger. I moved my finger rapidly side to side, giving Isabel the slightest pressure as Emily and I fucked her. I fought back a laugh as her eyes rolled up into her head. She began to whimper in between wordless pleas for more.

Having my girls back was heavenly. I have missed their abundant charms. Reaching with my free arm, I cupped Emily's angelic face and coaxed her nearer for a kiss. The change in angle set all of us off in a groan. The pressure of the faux cock against mine was maddening.

Emily began grinding her hips as she thrust, working her clit as she went. Isabel's cunt began to clench down, the stimulation on her clit as well as within her pussy and ass quickly working her to an orgasm. I released Emily's lips and rested my head on Izzy's shoulder, turning to bite her neck. The slight edge of pain started her climax.

"Fuck! Master Jasper!" My name was let out a purr as she came down.

I continued to thrust until she was fully spent and then withdrew, signaling Emily to do the same. I turned her onto her knees facing away from me. I quickly removed the harness and tossed it to the floor. Isabel laid down in front of Emily and I groaned at the sight. Emily's face was buried in her pussy instantly.

I thrust into Emily, taking her roughly. The slap of my hand on her ass echoed off the stone walls. Each time I withdrew, I spanked her soundly. Her pussy clamped down around me as my hand made contact. I could feel my own orgasm building.

"Stop."

Jane's voice issued the command over the speaker installed in the corner. Fuck if I'm going to stop now. It wasn't Aro or Eleazar's voice. I answer to them and them alone. I continued to pound into her. Each thrust pushed her harder into Isabel.

"Finger yourself for me, baby. I wanna feel you come around me."

"But she said..."

I growled and pulled out of her completely, spanking hard enough to make my hand hurt. "I said finger yourself. I am your master and you will obey me. You wear my ring, you belong to me."

"Yes, Master."

Emily's hand moved to the apex of her thighs and I could tell by the way her hips moved back towards me that she was masturbating. I gave her my length once more, relishing the heat of being inside her pussy. She groaned and came the moment I was fully inside her, her cries setting off another orgasm in Isabel.

I wrapped my arms around her and held her to me as I came with a roar, filling her. I kissed her sweaty back as I withdrew, reaching for some tissues on the bedside table. I quickly wiped my dick and then gently blotted where her pussy was dripping my come.

"Why don't the two of you go shower?"

Within moments of them getting into the shower and the time it took me to get a warm rag and wipe myself clean, Jane, Alec, and Felix were in the doorway with a collar and ankle bracelet. Fuck. I turned my back on them and went to the bed and replaced the paddle where it belonged. I was delaying my sentencing.

"I gave an order and you disobeyed it, slave."

I crossed my arms, my eyes taking in her gray robe. With one eyebrow lifted, I responded, "I'm not a slave and most of all... You. Are. Not. My. Master."

"Bind him. Master wants him brought to the punishment room."

Jane waited until Alec and Felix had my arms tied behind me and the collar and bracelet were locked before she came near me. She tapped a button on a large wrist watch and suddenly I felt my legs go out from under me as pain flooded me. I saw red, literally, as it felt like everything was on fire. I tried to stand up and the pain came again, fading to blissful blackness.

My head hurt as I came to and my first instinct was to run. I was in complete darkness. I was upright, but no weight on my feet. I tried to move my arms but couldn't. I heard the scratch of Velcro. The web. I was in the spider's lair. Fuck fuck fuckity fuck. Dammit Eleazar. You fucking sold me for the night.

I tugged at my feet and found that they were loosely resting on supports but not bound. I pulled on my wrist bindings and a bell sounded as the web shook behind me. I heard the PA speaker click on, the buzz filled my still fuzzy head. A young male voice announced that Master Aro or one of his associates would be with me shortly and to just make myself comfortable.

I hung my head and tried to ready myself for the upcoming punishment. I heard the rhythmic click of heels on the ground and steeled myself. Chelsea. I was in trouble.

A door opened and the room was soon flooded in a pale blue light. "Good morning, three twelve, I was sent by Master Aro to ensure you are thoroughly chastised for not obeying Lady Jane. His personal message is that 'a good pet comes at his master's first call if he wishes to keep his position as favorite. Otherwise, it will go to one who is more obedient.'."

"Now, Sub three hundred and twelve, I have a remote that will activate Lady Jane's little gift. She has become quite inventive and can create much more powerful bursts of electricity than before. I will remove you from the web if and only if you agree to behave. You will not escape your punishment but I would much prefer to leave my art upon your back and pert little ass instead of on your chest and cock. Nod if you agree to behave."

I nodded. She would make it so much worse on me if I didn't. Chelsea moved to me, her legs encased in high boots and otherwise bare except for a crimson red cloak around her shoulders, ending at the top swell of her ass. Her hands released my wrists and I instinctively grabbed one of the bungee cords of the web to steady myself.

"You may step forward and then approach the the bar. You may speak respectfully or vocalize your pain as needed." Chelsea waited until I was at the bar, my hands on the beam, before she stepped in front of me. Her lips met mine and I quickly thrust my tongue into her mouth, causing her to step back with a laugh.

"Oh how I've missed flaying your back until you bleed, my little Southern gentleman. You scar so beautifully. Did you miss me?"

I felt my eyes go ice cold as I lied through my teeth. "Yes, Lady Chelsea. I apologize for causing you displeasure."

Chelsea cooed and then went behind me. I heard her whip crack and she giggled as I tensed. "Don't worry, Jasper, you know it will only hurt a lot."

She cracked the whip beside me and just as it recoiled, the tip flicked my cheek. I felt the blood begin to drip before I felt the pain. I hissed and then tightened my jaw. I would not give her the pleasure of my cries.

The whip came down time and time across my back. It could have been minutes or hours. The pain had overtaken my brain. I shut down, solely focused on withstanding all my mistress gave me. I concentrated on Maria and how she looked in death. The image was fractured as if a jigsaw puzzle. Each contact the whip made with my skin faded out one of the pieces a little further. A few were completely black.

When she finally finished, I allowed myself to feel the pain and had to wrap my arms around the bar, despite the increase in pain, to hold myself upright. I could feel sweat and blood running down my legs. Forgive me, Mistress. I should not have killed you. I could have escaped without your death.

"To the medical ward. Do you know the way?"

"Yes, Lady Chelsea. Thank you, Lady Chelsea."

She ruffled my hair and then held her tits against my face as if they were going to magically make me better. They were nice but too plastic for my tastes. It didn't stop me from biting down on her nipple as it neared my mouth.

Chelsea yelped and then brought her hand down hard on my shoulder, her fingers hitting several open cuts. I screamed and dropped to my knees. "On your knees you shall go, three twelve." She walked to the intercom and announced, "Sub three hundred twelve from punishment room two to the infirmary for treatment."

"Yes, Mistress. Notation made."

"Off with you. Behave and I won't see you again."

Chelsea's boot met the back of my ass and I scurried forward, away from her. My back was screaming at me with each movement and when I turned my head briefly I could see a few drops of blood along my path. I moved as fast as I could, swallowing down the pain.

You're here to keep Aro from coming to you. To keep him from Edward. Edward. His name became my mantra. My mind filled with the light in his eyes as he told me he was looking forward to the day I entered him. I would endure this all to come home to him. He needs my help. This will help me be whole so that I can take care of him. I deserve this.

I made it to the medical wing and was immediately led to a cool water mattress on the floor where I collapsed. The white cotton sheet clung to me. I saw a woman with dark hair and olive toned skin come kneel beside me. She lifted my wrist gently and scanned the bar code on my bracelet. A computer beside her lit up with my name, photo, and medical history.

"Hello Jasper, I am Dr. Cleo Vivaldi. I am now assigned to you. I will be your medical attendant for your stay here in Volterra. I'm going to spray your back with an anesthetic first and then work on cleaning and binding your injuries. Please hold still as best you can."

I heard a slight hissing sound and then a cold wetness spread across my back. Soon after, the pain began to subside, leaving an uncomfortable throbbing in its wake. I tried to relax but the deeper cuts complained as I did so. I felt another layer of cold settle on my skin and then nothing but pressure as Dr. Vivaldi tended to the lash marks.

I must have fallen asleep some time through her ministrations as I was covered in a clean sheet and the room was dark when I awoke. I moved slowly, starting with flexing my feet. The tightness in my back told me I'd slept for several hours. I gingerly lifted myself, the pain flooding my senses.

I saw a glass of water, a covered tray of food, and a small paper cup of pills sitting on the table beside my mattress. I sipped on the water and nibbled at the food but left the pills. I would just hurt worse when they wore off.

When finished, I rose to my feet and walked to the bathroom, holding my torso as still as possible. I used the restroom and quickly washed my hands, turning to look at my back in the mirror. There were ten long strips of bandage taped along my back and a score of red lines that were just shiny with salve.

"I hear you took your punishment well, pet."

I bristled as I heard Aro behind me. He chuckled and walked toward me, appearing to glide across the floor. I held my ground and he put his fingers under my chin and lifted it higher. I could feel my hair brushing across some of the raw yet not broken skin of my collar region.

"Good boy. Master doesn't like it when his playthings are gone too long. I've needed you here to help train one of my subs. He's a willful boy but so pretty. He reminds me of you but not so gentle."

Aro's hand trailed over my back and I was glad that I was still fairly numb. His hand moved to my ass and I forced myself still. He probed me and then moved around to grasp my cock.

"You're not ready for me. Wasn't that lesson one?"

A shock went through me, making my back feel as if it had ripped open once more. I fell down around Aro's feet, my lips pressing repeatedly upon them.

"I'm sorry, Master!" I was sobbing, already.

"On your feet. I want you in my chamber for the night."

"Yes, Master."

Aro chuckled and held down one hand, helping me to my feet. "Am I not a good master? I know you're hurting. Eleazar has been far too lenient. Come now, Jasper. Be a good pet, I've missed you."

The next three days were spent bouncing between Aro's chamber, his main office where I was permitted to wear a long white tunic to hide my wounds from clients seeking subs, and any number of punishment rooms which were normally followed with a trip to see Dr. Vivaldi. By my fourth trip she just shook her head and got out more gauze. On Tuesday evening, however, Aro had me put on my suit.

"I want you to look nice, pet. Dress sharp, slick your hair back, and shave. I want you to look like a model. Eleazar has your clothes. You would do well to show him proper respect. I believe you hurt his feelings by your choices earlier today."

It would be my first encounter with Eleazar since the night we arrived. His choice of Seth to attend him in his chamber instead of me had pissed me off. When I was granted permission this morning to go visit him, I declined, choosing another session with Lady Chelsea instead of looking into his cold nearly black eyes. Whenever he was here and in this mood, he was not my Elly, he was Master Eleazar and I would do better to plead my case with Aro.

I went to his chamber and let myself in, dropping to my knees as soon as I closed the door. I sat down on my heels, eyes trained on the floor, until he greeted me. Eleazar came over and tapped my shoulder.

"Up, Jasper. Use the shower, and get dressed. We haven't much time. Aro is making a few presentations of subs to new masters, announcing a new trainer, and said that he has something he needs to discuss."

"Yes, sir."

I turned my back on him and went to the shower. I peeled off the bandages I could reach and quickly washed off the smell of the antiseptic. I would take my clothing to the medical ward and have my back bandaged before dressing.

"Oh shit. Jazzy, I didn't know. I'm sorry. As soon as you're finished, I'll take care of your wounds. I'm so sorry, Jasper. How can I make it up to you?"

I turned away and rinsed my hair once more, pointedly ignoring him. I was being petty. I knew that, but I wasn't ready to forgive Eleazar yet.

"Jazzy boy, forgive me, please. Don't act like this. Come here. Let me dry you off, buster."

I cringed. He hadn't called me that in ages. It was always reserved for after a particularly challenging session when he wanted me to feel more comfortable. I forced myself to give him a smile and then soaped up my cock and balls, the slight stubble showing me that I needed to shave soon.

I rinsed slowly and then stepped out of the shower, letting him dry me with the offered towel. He tried to kiss me but I turned my face. My back burned from the water. Until it healed, he would not be happily received. While he was being given blow jobs by Seth and snuggling with Seth, I was being bled and forcibly taken for Aro's pleasure.

"Jasper, behave or you will be collared."

"Yes, Sir."

I forced my face into a mask of servitude and gave him a serene smile, knowing that my blue eyes were showing the storm hiding within. His hand came up and stroked my cheek. I turned into it, kissing his wrist. His answering smile showed me I was forgiven. Manipulating my masters was so easy.

I leaned over his mattress, fighting back several curses as he applied an antiseptic cream to the cuts. His fingers were swift and sure in their touches, never going over a spot twice. Eleazar was doing his best to minimize my pain.

He decided against taping individual bandage strips and bound my entire torso with sterile gauze anchoring some pieces up over my shoulders to cover those wounds as well. The one raw spot on my buttocks he did apply a single strip to, leaving enough give on the tape so that I could sit comfortably.

Eleazar was gentle as he helped me dress, putting my arms through the armholes of the undershirt before sliding it up over my head to minimize my stretching. The dress shirt was easy, I just shrugged into it and then he buttoned it, place a kiss at the hollow between my collarbones at the base of my neck before closing the last button. He held my pants out for me to step in to and he graciously allowed me to button them myself.

"You know you're my favorite right?"

I glared at him as he slid my jacket up my arms. He pouted, though his dark eyes danced. How was I his favorite while he had Seth in here? Eleazar went on to explain my unasked question.

"Jasper, Seth is not made of strong enough material to withstand Master Aro's world." Seth turned and gave us both a hard look. Eleazar just shrugged and continued. "I, more than anyone else, am your master. I know what you need and I know what you can take. Jasper, you crave the whip as much as you despise it. You desire the release of the ghosts you harbor in your heart and the only way you let them out is through intense pain."

Eleazar came to me and brought his lips to my ear. "I know how much you've enjoyed Kasey, and how you've been eyeing Lulu, the new Southern belle who I added two weeks ago. I will give her to you if it will make you forgive me. Plus, I've already gotten permission to kennel Seth for just tonight and you're to stay here. I thought you could use a soft bed."

I nodded and whispered, "thank you, Sir."

Eleazar handed me a protein shake to quickly drink before he had Seth style our hair. We would eat after Aro's little show but we were never certain as to when that would be. Once our hair was carefully gelled back as Aro preferred, Eleazar's in a low ponytail at the base of his neck, we stepped into our shoes and descended the stairs to the first floor. We left Seth at the kennel and I handed him a sleeping pill I'd palmed in Eleazar's bathroom after brushing my teeth.

"Use the restroom right away and pretend to cough, tucking the pill into your cheek. When you wash your hands, cup water to wash your face, taking just enough to swallow the pill when you do so."

His eyes shone with gratitude and he nodded as he turned away to go with the attendant. Eleazar questioned what I had said but I just shrugged. Sometimes, a secret between a Dom and Sub was necessary even when the Dom had a master of his own to answer to.

We were ushered into a large stone circular room with three old thrones along one edge. Aro and his brother sat upon them in long robes. They loved their theatrics. This was guaranteed to be a good show. Eleazar and I were each given dark charcoal robes, those of the trainers, so I was thankful that in this I was not being seen as a sub. I would be allowed to sit in one of those plush chairs along the walls on a riser and let my body rest.

As we entered, Aro's eyes flicked over us and he motioned to a set of chairs by his feet. Eleazar's breath caught but I maintained my control and strode across the room forcibly, the hard heels of my shoes sounding against the stone. I dropped to one knee in front of the Volturi and lowered my head.

"Masters."

Aro chuckled and stood up, offering me his hand. "Oh my pet, I knew that you'd eventually break. I've missed you. Give your master a kiss."

I rose to my feet and kissed Aro's papery soft lips, faking a moan as his tongue slid between my lips. I returned the kiss with a forced measure of passion, enjoying his answering groan. If I had wanted, and had the nerve, I could have reached beneath the folds of his cloak and felt his cock hardening. Aro put on a show for no one and if he was groaning, he was turned on.

He pulled back and gave me a small smile. He touched my cheek and I turned to kiss his knuckles. He laughed and pointed to the chair.

"Sit, my pet. Your punishment is over for the week. Now you are my guest and staff."

I sank down onto the soft cushions and was instantly served a glass of champagne by Alec. I gave him a smirk and enjoyed the dip in his smile before he moved on to Eleazar. My back was throbbing as I leaned back into the chair. It would serve well at keeping me focused. What was said was not always what was meant.

The double doors behind the thrones were opened and I heard rusted wheels grating against the floor. Felix and Demetri were dragging in what looked like an ancient guillotine. The only part of it not covered in rust or darkened with age was the blade. It was polished to a shine and the edge, seen from a distance of fifteen feet, was insanely sharp to my eyes.

The hum of conversations around the room stopped abruptly and Aro once more stood, his robed arms open wide.

"Welcome friends and family of Volterra. Tonight is a night for announcements and celebration. Joshua Nesbirin, welcome to our fold. Your donation is most kind and we hope that this is the start of a beautiful friendship. May Caroline fit into your life flawlessly."

Aro then clapped his hands and Felix came out with two bundles of cloth- one over each arm. They were dark gray like the cloaks of the staff. However, these had a ribbon showing in jet black with a hint of crimson along the edge. Felix stopped in front of Eleazar and me.

"I have an announcement to make that brings me great joy. A new position has been created in our hierarchy, that of the Master Trainer. The two trainers being granted this honor have turned out the finest subs to have ever graced my program. It is my privilege to bestow the new cloaks upon Jasper and Eleazar, Master Trainers of North America. Their word is as good as mine."

Chelsea, now titled "Mistress of Punishments", stepped forward and removed our current cloaks. With a flourish she shook the folds out of our new ones and pulled them about our shoulders. She kissed our cheeks when finished and then went to kneel on the floor between Aro and Marcus. Her crimson cloak stood out brightly between theirs of the darkest black.

"Now, my friends, for the less than happy news. We have a traitor among us. Someone has begun to set up a private training compound and has not kept us in the loop. Am I not a kind master? Do I not see that you have all of the funds you need to obtain the best equipment money can buy?"

I could feel the tension radiating from Eleazar. He was worried that our plan had been discovered. I longed to reach my hand over and offer him reassurance but to do so would be to show our worry. It would not do for us to show any sign of weakness in this room of sharks.

"Mistress Angelique? Would you please step forward into the center of the room?"

A tall woman in a skin tight pencil skirt and a white blouse came forward. Her auburn hair was pulled back into a severe bun. With her glasses, she reminded me of a naughty librarian fantasy gone wrong. This librarian liked her nipple clamps a little too tight. Isabel had spent a week with her here. When she left, Isabel's pale pink nipples were a dark plum from bruising.

"You can have them all, Aro. I'll give it all up and be your slave here. I never meant any disrespect, I swear to you."

Aro held up his hand, I could see it in the corner of my eye. He came around in front of us, flanked by Demetri and Felix. They moved to Angelique and took her to the guillotine.

"My pets, we all know that treason is met with the swiftest justice. It broke my heart to know that you were plotting against me, Angelique. My little French angel. Now you pay the ultimate price. I shall miss you."

I will hear her scream, followed by the eerie silence when it abruptly ended, for the rest of my days. I focused on the back of Aro's head, his long hair shining in the light from the sconces. A few guests with weaker stomachs were retching.

Aro resumed his place on his throne after the mess was cleaned up and the guillotine returned to the dungeons. His voice rang out through the room. "This is what happens when you forget your place. I gave you your power. Reach for more and I will cut you down."

A/N: We figured after this, you would need a little break from Italy. Next chapter we'll go back to Washington for some time with Bella and Edward. Is she still mad? Has she forgiven him? Review for a sneak peek. Chapter 18 will bring us back here for the rest of Jasper's time in Italy.