An Unresolved Past

This story starts off five years after its prelude: 'Life is never what you expect it to be'. Bella is now Caius's mate and they are both very happily bonded. WARNING: This is an adult version of twilight and will have sexual submission and violence (after all; the story revolves around vampires). This is not for the faint of heart; it is very dark and has sexual content. 18+

Disclaimer: Stephenie Meyer is the creator of these intriguing characters but has nothing to do with this story.

Chapter 9 – Loving you made me strong but it also made me weak *

Just before Alec set out to collect Bella for their training session he was stopped in the corridor by his sister.

"Aro requests your presence in his office"

"I was on my way to Isabella"

"I have been instructed to inform you that he requests yourimmediate company"

Alec was surprised by Aro's demand and wondered what was going on. He entered Aro's library and found him taking 'down-time' in front of the fireplace. Alec silently walked towards Aro, his eyes watching the shadow-like figure dressed in a black suit; a direct contrast to the streams of orange and red behind him.

Alec gave a discreet cough warning Aro of his presence and after a moment Aro turned and the somewhat contemplative smile that had adorned on his lips grew, becoming more affectionate upon seeing his young progeny "Ah Alex, so you received my message".

Alec returned the smile saying "Master Aro, I understood you wished to talk to me".

Aro walked away from the comfort of the hearth and leaning against the front of the bureau his eyes scanned Alec "Dear Alec, as I stated yesterday; you will resume training with Isabella today".

"Yes, I was just about to go to her room and pick her up" Alec explained as he watched Aro stare into space.

Alec who had been with Aro for centuries had often witnessed his constant mood fluctuations. Now, he noticed a shrewd sparkle in Aro's calculating crimson eyes. "Is there something wrong master

Aro?"

Aro was carefully considering his words "No, my dear Alec it is only something I forgot to say and I think you should know before you begin your sessions with Isabella". His attention was now focused on Alec as he continued to explain "What I ask may seem cruel but it is for the good of all; you see I want you to train our Isabella hard and without restraint for I wish to see if she has lost any of her combat talent. Caius has always been too lenient with her; now, with his loss we need everyone at their best, including Isabella".

Alex was baffled by Aro's words and afraid that Bella could not endure the pressure "Won't it be extreme? After all, just as you said, she is no longer accustomed to hard training; Caius always found their bond more important than developing her gift".

"She is no longer under his protection; she is under mine, as are you. As you know, at the moment my major priority is the safety of the Volturi coven and as I said we need everyone in top condition. I have all confidence in your skills as a trainer and have no doubt you will soon have her in excellent form".

Comprehending that further discussion was futile Alec said "Of course Master Aro" and bowed as he prepared to leave.

He was about to open the door when Aro added "Oh yes, considering Isabella is now under my guidance; I will be keeping a continuous watch over her progress".

Alex knew that Caius and Aro always had different viewpoints as to the method and rigour needed to train Bella effectively. At first Alex approved of Aro's hard tactic but the last four years, seeing her reaction to Caius's love and devotion; Alec began to view things differently. The method Aro suggested no longer had Alec's preference and he regretted that he would be the one to implement it.

While walking the softly lit corridors to her room he contemplated this sudden change of tactic and if he could possibly avoid it but no matter how he looked at the situation; it would be impossible. Being so wrapped up in his thoughts he arrived in front of Isabella's bedroom before he realized. Knocking on the door Alec asked "May I come in?"

Quickly opening the heavy door she muttered "What took you so long? I expected you a half hour ago….." but when her eyes saw the tense expression on his face she immediately realized something was troubling him and hesitantly probed "What's wrong Alec?"

Apprehensively Alec scanned both guards and then turned his head towards Bella. Spotting her concern he unwillingly lied saying "It's nothing I was just thinking; we haven't trained in ages". He then gave her a bogus smile saying "I believe you have become weak from all Caius's pampering".

As they entered the training room Bella's heart leaped at seeing the Cullens. So this was where they hung out! Having them in the same room made it difficult for Bella to concentrate on her training; all she wanted was to speak with Alice and Jazz.

That day was endless. Alec was relentless as he drove Bella to the edge; she hadn't realized how out of shape she was. Sure, she was a vampire and the body of a vampire was almost indestructible but beside Alec, who was always training she felt her strength wanting.

While they were training she noticed that Demetri and Jane had entered the room. As she watched, her concentration was temporarily lost, at that moment Alec struck; hitting her full force. Bella was propelled towards the brick wall and although her body had no problem her pride had taken a beating.

She had pulverized the wall and lay between the debris; a mixture of powder and dirt covering her as dusty residue still swirled in the air. Brushing off largest fragments she inadvertently sneezed sending even more dust particles into the air. While on the ground and assessing the damage someone extended their hand to help her. Looking up she saw Demetri's warm and comforting smile as he gracefully bowed saying Please Isabella, let me help"

Returning the smile she gratefully took the offered hand and climbed out of the rubble as she said "Thanks".

Alec was angry with himself but even angrier with Aro for forcing his hand. Advancing towards the two Alec allowed his pent-up fury to escape "Let her be; she needs no help. She must toughen-up otherwise she will never learn"

Demetri was perplexed by Alec's severe attitude and scrutinizing him, he calmly said "But Alec, its training; not a battle!"

"No, but training has to be hard otherwise we are useless in the field; you know that is what master Aro had taught us and now that Isabella falls under his protection she must also learn" Alec argued.

Alec looked around and realized that everything around him had become quiet. The Cullens and Jane had stopped to watch their conversation and seeing this he mumbled "whatever" and left the group with Jane tagging behind.

As soon as Alec and Jane were out of hearing range from the others Jane asked "What just happened back there? I never saw you work her so hard".

"No" he sneered furious at the position he had been put in "Caius would never had allowed it".

Confused Jane asked "Why now? She still is Caius's mate".

Alec's actions conveyed the frustration he felt to some extent as he explained with hint of anger in his voice "Yes, maybe so but she is now under Aro's supervision; meaning I must train her hard and make sure she picks up the slack".

Jane face showed her surprise when she asked "Did he say that?"

They were both interrupted as Aro walked into the room. He smiled affectionately at both and with a movement of his head and a gesture of his eyes he dismissed Jane.

When she had left he turned to Alec asking "What is wrong? Why aren't you with Isabella as I have asked?"

Alec quickly disguised his frustration and explained "She had difficulty with the lessons and when I pressed on Demetri stepped in. She's not used to hard training and exposing her to that has only caused others to ask questions".

Aro looked up his eyes fixed on Alec as he realized that the boy had a point. He had seen Alec's affection towards Isabella and did not want this to overpower his judgment, he would have to reassess this obstacle but in the meanwhile he said"You may be right, it might be more diplomatic to be lenient".

Alec was relieved that he could allow her some slack and nodded saying "Very good master, seeing her work out I don't think she is ready for any severe training. Perhaps it is better for her to take longer but less drastic training in order to build up stamina".

While Alec was discussing the situation with Aro, Bella walked towards the Cullens.

Seeing her advance Alice lit up saying "We heard you have taken a room in the Queen's Tower"

Bella sarcastically chuckled "Believe me, it was not my choice; it was my duty according to Aro"

Alice was perplexed by her answer thinking that Bella would be honoured by the move.

However before she had an opportunity to ask, Bella grabbed her arm and that of Jazz and pulled them both towards her as she whispered "Now will you both tell me what the hell is going on? I was talking to Aro yesterday and he said you volunteered to join the Volturi. It's bloody coincidental, that after your call you both fell off of the planet and ended up here!"

The Cullens were more than surprised by her words; she saw Alice's features soften as Jasper quickly opted for a walk in the gardens motioning for them to follow.

At first they were closely followed by Bella's guards but after Bella hissed "back-off" they finally allowed them some privacy.

Then turning towards her friend she said "What happened; why didn't you call back? Please tell me what is going on; why did you come here of all places."

Jazz motioned for Bella to slow down and Alice, totally confused said "What do you mean? The Volturi needed talented vampires to help strengthen the coven after Caius's demise. Aro was very happy when we volunteered, giving us a place in his guard".

Bella shook her head indicating she would not accept Alice's explanation and then pleaded "Tell me what you saw Alice; it must have something to do with the fact that you are both here".

Alice's was perplexed and looking uncomprehendingly at her friend she responded by saying "First tell us what you're talking about Bella? I don't understand".

Bella looked in desperation at Jazz but he looked just as confused as Alice so Bella tried again "You mean you don't remember calling me just before Caius fell from the cliff?"

"No, I'm sorry!" Alice said as she looked at Jasper and Bella could read concern in her eyes and she finally realized that they pitied her and thought she was on the edge of madness. Alice then softly added "we don't know what you are talking about".

Then Bella turned to look at Jazz who only nodded his concurrence with Alice's words.

In the silence that followed Isabella thought that she was indeed cracking-up as both Alice and Jazz continued to watch her with growing compassion and concern.

It was then that Alec returned and announced that they continue training. Thankfully his tempo had decreased allowing Bella some respite.

As soon as their practice ended Alec brought Bella back to her apartments. A heavy and uncomfortable silence fell between the two as they travelled the corridors. Upon arriving at the doors Alec suddenly turned towards Bella and surprised her by asking "May I come in for a minute?"

Looking up she saw his customary serenity replaced by awkwardness; in his eyes she once again saw the compassion she had witnessed last night. Taking this all in she said "Please be my guest" and upon opening the door she motioned with her hand for him to enter.

She lowered herself to the couch and immediately offered him the chair across from her. Again he surprised her by taking the spot next to her.

Bella looked perplexed and was about to move away when Alec put a hand on her lap and whispered "I need to talk but wish to avoid the chance of being overheard by anyone" nodding his head towards the door Bella realized he meant the guards.

After a moment's hesitation he continued "I only wish to apologize for my rough treatment; you see I was following Aro's instructions"

Bella studied his face in search of the truth behind his words and witnessed the pent up frustration and regret radiating from his eyes. "You need not explain; I believe you. You have no choice but to obey his commands"

She saw relief quickly followed by concern as he said "I wish I could do more to prevent this; I know you're unhappy and being here" he said as his arm took in the room around them "isn't helping".

"You cannot fight a tidal wave and once Aro has made his choices; he can manipulate everyone around him" she hesitantly declared.

He held her hand and said "At least I was able to convince him that you needed more time to build up your stamina and he has agreed to less severe sessions".

A sad bitter smile haunted Bella's lips as she said "Thank you! I am grateful for your friendship".

Looking at the door she gave Alec a bogus laugh as she whispered "let us enjoy each other's company and tell me what is going on in the castle. We need to entertain our other guests" as she motioned to the door.

After Alec left, Bella rehashed her discussion with the Cullens and was totally bewildered by their words; they were the same two she had met in Forks and yet their opinion of the Volturi had taken an 180° turn.

The next day Bella noticed the Cullen's absence at the training sessions and after yet another week she clearly understood they would no longer be training with them. After practice she asked Alec what was going on and with a queasy look on his face he explained "Both of them had difficulty digesting human blood so Aro excused them from his guards".

Bella would have laughed at his expression had his news been different but now her heart sunk.

Not aware of the influence his words had on Bella he continued his explanation "Aro has offered Jasper and Alice leadership over the guards of Caius's wing. In the past a few Caius's guards have become more tolerant of their means of nourishment but he has stipulated that they do not convince others to follow their diet". Alec sarcastically chuckled in himself as he added "Aro wishes that they take over many different tasks allowing them to prove their worth; it will probably keep them very busy in the next few years".

Of course, Bella thought like all Aro's gifts; it came with a price. He would keep them constantly occupied in the wing that Bella could not access. "So they will have no time to visit me" she mumbled more to herself than to Alec.

Bella shook her head knowing how unhappy the Cullens must be at losing Jazz and Alice; now she too had lost them, not to the Volturi but to their new duties.

Later that evening Demetri came to her rooms, she was always grateful for his visits as it allowed her another means of leaving her new abode. Demetri often taught her language lessons in the garden and in these sessions she need not stress her gift but her mind; something she was always good at.

After the lessons they would often enjoy the night air as Demetri told her of the past. She had become quite the history buff since her stay with the Volturi; there were so many fascinating stories to be told but now her mind was still distracted by her thoughts of Jasper and Alice.

Demetri watched her and realizing her mind was preoccupied he stopped speaking. It took a moment for Bella to acknowledge his silence and when she looked up she saw he had folded his arms over one other; a mischievous smile plastered on his face.

"I'm sorry Demetri; I didn't mean to be rude it was just that something has been bothering me all day". In the silence of Demetri's reply she continued "I understand the Jazz and Alice are thrilled with the idea of being part of the Volturi but what I don't understand is how their opinion could be the total opposite of what it used to be. In the past all the members of the Olympic coven were inseparable and now, neither Jazz nor Alice have been to Forks since they arrived".

Demetri just shrugged his shoulders saying "They didn't ask to be allowed to leave. They seem to be quite happy here. Now that Aro has allowed them their own part of the castle and a continuation of their diet why should they want to leave?"

"That's just it; the Jazz and Alice I knew would never stay here of their free will they would go back to Forks; I'm sure the Cullens are worried sick about this new arrangement".

I believe they do; they were quite anxious about them but both are young and maybe now that they have new responsibilities they might just be enjoying their freedom and the respect Aro shows them. At the Cullen's request I asked them to call them once in a while but neither of them seem to be inclined to do so.

Bella stopped walking and turned to look at him asking "You mean you visit them once in a while?

Demetri replied "Yes, not often but sometimes" and was about to continue walking when Bella grabbed his arm.

By holding on to his arm she forced him to stand still as she implored "Can I come with you the next time you go?

Demetri sighed "I'm sorry Isabella but Aro has expressly forbidden you to go back to your former part of the castle; you know that. I don't want to get into trouble so unless you get permission from Aro I can't help but if you wish their company I can always inform them".

The next day Bella went to Aro's office determined to ask permission to accompany Demetri the next time he went to her old part of the castle.

Bella knocked on the door of Aro's chambers and upon hearing his voice she entered his office quickly sensing a great deal of hostility suspended in the atmosphere. The room was dark with only the glowing flames of the fireplace to illuminate the room.

Scanning the room she didn't see anyone but after a moment she saw an elegant hand appear just from someone sitting in the high-back chair directly across from the fire place. The hand undoubtedly belonged to Aro and he motioned her to come towards him.

At first she felt apprehensive but then, reprimanding herself, she leisurely advanced towards Aro; once she faced him she bowed her head as a token of respect.

Aro was sitting in a front of the fire place in his immaculate black suit; his eyes reflecting the flaming display before him. Gradually raising his head he watched Bella with stern and calculating eyes but said nothing; only motioned her to sit in the chair beside him.

Looking at his expression, she quickly decided this was no time to ask for favours "I fear I have interrupted something. It was not my intention maybe it would be better if I come back another time".

Bella prepared to abandon her cause and Aro's company but in a millisecond Aro grabbed her wrist and with a deviously sparkle in his eye said "Sit my dear; don't be bashful you must know you are always welcome in my quarters"

A long silence followed between the two; the only sound the crackle of flames in the fireplace as they danced and leapt, casting their golden light on Aro's handsome face.

Bella sat down in the designated chair and scrutinized the flames in an attempt to gather the necessary courage. Turning to face Aro she finally broke the silence "Aro I wish to ask a favour of you".

Aro raised a questioning eyebrow but kept silent.

Bella then selected her words carefully as she began "I was talking to Demetri the other day and he told me that he visits Alice and Jasper once in a while. Well, I'd like your permission to accompany Demetri when he goes to see them".

"I'm sorry Isabella but that's not possible" Aro said endorsing his words with a nonchalant wave of his hand.

"Please Aro; I need a bit of freedom!" Bella implored, tactfully trying to hide her annoyance and frustration.

Aro snapped "No Isabella; your words with them have caused enough problems. Oh yes I heard the subtle accusations and will not stand for it any longer; besides that I will not allow you to go to that part of the castle! The memories held in that part of the Castle will only destroy all resistance you have built up".

She then tried to appeal to his sympathy asking "Please Aro, allow me this one thing"

Whereupon he sneered "That may have worked on Caius my dear, but it doesn't work on me!"

His dark red gaze assessed her and before she had time to react to his words he continued "How is your training going?"

Bella was perplexed by his animosity and had difficulty adjusting to his abrupt change of topic but after a moment of thought she was able to say "Fine".

As soon as she said this, he released his pent up hostility saying "Well I have heard and seen differently "It seems that there are some issues pertaining to your devotion towards your training".

She looked up; her face blank as she had no idea what he was talking about.

Aro continued "Oh yes my dear, I saw the first day of training and the way you manipulated others to rally around you".

Bella was totally surprised by his accusation and stuttered "I didn't do that… at least it was never my intention"

Aro's eyes narrowed slightly his voice a deadly hiss "Is that so? Just as you did not intend to make inquiries about the Cullens?"

Bella was surprised and confused by Aro's words and with a frown on her otherwise smooth face she naively asked "What sort of inquiries?"

Furious and disbelieving red eyes glared at Bella's flawless face the ice in his voice cold enough to burn "Do not play the false innocent with me. You know what I speak of!" Then looking at the bewilderment that still covered her face he hissed "I am talking about the inquiries you made concerning why Alice Cullen and Mr. Hale. You have been told by both them and me and yet you continue your subtle accusations concerning their reasons for entering the Volturi guards; these accusations will stop immediately. Do you understand!"

"They are not accusations, just inquires, as you yourself say…." Bella said her eyes warily observing the glaring figure in front of her.

"Oh no?" he shouted then taking her hand in his he squeezed; in a blatant attempt to study her thoughts.

Bella's inadvertently shuddered, her red eyes widened in fright by his outburst and all words abandoned her as she desperately tried to keep her wits.

Aro however was relentless as he badgered "Why then, were you talking about strange phone calls; and trying to convince them that they were here because of them?"

Then looking at her surprise he added "Yes my beautiful Isabella, I know everything you do and say; for the very walls have ears".

Bella opened her mouth, only to close it again when no words came out. What could she say?

To deny everything would only incite more wrath; something that Bella didn't relish.

Aro's eyes roamed over Bella's bewildered expression and seeing defeat clearly marking her face a wide smile spread across Aro's perfect lips. He then loosened his grip on her hand and brought it to his lips as he whispered "I think we finally understand one another. I fear that I have allowed my anger to get the best of me but you must understand; you have become quite paranoid and that reflects poorly on all of us. As royal family we must at least give others the pretense of having a strong bond.

*Loving you made me strong but it also made me weak. It made me happy but also depressed. It helped me up but also pulled me down. It taught me how to hold on but now it's teaching me how to let go.

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