Chapter 14:

Peter's Call to Jasper

Jasper's phone buzzed, and he answered immediately. "Peter, what did you find?" Peter's voice was low but urgent. "Jasper, you were right. Carlisle's plans are extensive. He's looking to build an empire in the Americas, change feeding laws, and he's counting on Bella's shield to solidify his power. He's even mentioned you as a potential leader for his army." Jasper's grip tightened on the phone, his expression darkening. "This is bigger than I thought. We need to bring all of this information to Volturi. Meet us at the airport with the evidence. We'll go together." "Understood," Peter replied. "I'll be there."

Bella and Jasper: The Next StepAt the airport, Jasper and Bella waited in a secluded area, their minds racing with the gravity of their situation. Bella's eyes were filled with determination despite the fear she tried to mask. "What if they don't believe us, Jasper?" she asked, her voice a whisper. Jasper placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We have the evidence, Bella. Carlisle's plans are documented. Once we present this to Marcus and Felix, they'll see the truth. We have to trust that justice will prevail." Bella nodded, her resolve hardening. "We'll face this together, no matter what." As Peter arrived, carrying a small satchel with the incriminating documents, Bella turned to him with a mix of concern and hope in her eyes. "Peter, how was Charlie's change? Is he adjusting okay?" Peter gave her a reassuring smile. "He's doing well, Bella. The transition was smooth, and he's adapting quickly. Charlotte's keeping an eye on him in Argentina until it's safe for you to reunite." Relieved, Bella whispered, "Thank you."The three of them exchanged a look of mutual understanding. They were about to step into the heart of the storm, armed with the truth and their bond. The flight to Volturi was laden with anticipation, each of them aware that the confrontation ahead could change their lives—and the vampire world— 's Arrival in Italy

Edward's arrival at the airport in Italy was met with a brusque reception. Felix stood waiting, his broad frame and stoic expression immediately setting the tone. As Edward approached, he couldn't help but express his frustration. "Where is Aro? I need to speak with him immediately. This situation intolerable!" Edward demanded, his voice sharp with irritation.
Felix raised an eyebrow, his demeanor unyielding. "You'll have to wait, Edward. Aro is expecting you and your family together. Make yourself comfortable; Carlisle and the others will arrive soon." Edward's frustration mounted. "Comfortable? I don't have time for this! I'll rent a car and drive myself to the Volturi headquarters." Felix's eyes narrowed slightly, his voice dropping to a cold edge. "You will sit down and wait as instructed. The world does not revolve around the Cullens." Edward's mouth snapped shut, glaring at Felix but reluctantly finding a seat. His thoughts churned with a mixture of anger and unease. Being treated like an errant child was a new experience for him, and it only served to deepen his resentment.

The Cullens' Arrival and Tensions

Several hours later, the Cullens disembarked from their plane, met by a contingent of the Volturi guard including Jane and Alec. Their presence was a stark reminder of the seriousness of the situation. Jane, her face impassive, addressed Carlisle. "Welcome. We have vehicles ready to take you to the headquarters. Follow us." Carlisle nodded, his expression carefully controlled. "Thank you, Jane. Lead the way." As the Cullens were led to a string of cars, Felix returned to his post, awaiting the next arrivals. He gave instructions to the guards, then addressed Carlisle once more. "You'll be taken to headquarters. I'm waiting for more guests." Carlisle was taken aback by the formal reception and the presence of the Volturi guard but chose to remain silent. The ride to the headquarters was tense, each member of the Cullen family lost in their own thoughts. Upon arrival, they were shown to modest quarters, not the grand accommodations Carlisle had expected. Edward, barely containing his frustration, rounded on Carlisle as soon as the door closed behind them. "This is ridiculous! We should be speaking to Aro, demanding Bella and Jasper's return. Instead, we're dumped here like criminals." Carlisle, visibly annoyed, raised a hand to silence him. "Edward, give me a moment to think." He began to walk around the room, examining the art on the walls and the subtle decor. Edward, unable to contain himself, started again. "We need to—" "Sit down and be quiet!" Carlisle snapped, cutting him off. His eyes flicked around the room, taking in every detail. These were not the rooms he had anticipated. He finally settled into a large wingback chair, a finger pressed to his lips as he quietly cautioned the coven to say nothing more.

Jasper, Bella, and Peter's Arrival

Meanwhile, just as the Cullens' cars pulled away, Jasper, Bella, and Peter arrived at the airport. They were met by Felix, who greeted them with a rare smile. "Jasper, Bella. It's good to see you," Felix said, his tone more relaxed than it had been with Edward. Jasper returned the smile, clasping Felix's hand. "Likewise, Felix. We have a lot to discuss." Felix nodded. "Let's find a quiet place. We need to go over what you've discovered before we head to Volturi." They settled into a secluded corner of the airport, spreading out the journal and other documents they had brought. Jasper's voice was low and serious as he explained what they had uncovered. "Carlisle's ambitions go far beyond simple coven politics. He's planning to build an empire, with Bella's shield as a central component. He wants to change feeding laws, establish control over the Americas, and he's gathering an army." Bella's eyes widened, her hand tightening on Jasper's arm. "He's planning to use my shield. I never agreed to any of this." Felix's expression hardened. "This is worse than we thought. We need to get this to Marcus immediately." As they were talking, Jasper's phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen and answered. "Garrett, what's the latest?" Garrett's voice came through with a sense of urgency. "I've confirmed that Carlisle's gathering is set for September 13th in Forks. He's calling it a show of force. This isn't just about changing laws; he's preparing for a takeover." Jasper's jaw tightened. "Understood. Thank you, Garrett. Stay safe."
Felix's expression grew more serious. "We need to move. I'll call Marcus and arrange a room for us to meet. We'll take you to headquarters discreetly."

Preparing for the Confrontation

Walking out to the cars reserved for their travel, Felix led Jasper, Bella, and Peter to a black SUV. As they settled in, Jasper put his arm around Bella, his voice gentle but firm. "It looks like things are going to be okay. Just a few more hours, and we'll know what our future holds. Stay strong, Bella." Bella nodded, drawing strength from Jasper's presence. "I'm ready. As the SUV moved through the winding streets towards Volturi headquarters, the weight of the coming confrontation pressed down on them. They had the truth and evidence, but the outcome was uncertain. All they could do was hold on to each other and hope that justice would prevail.

At Volturi Headquarters

The Cullens' initial welcome at the Volturi headquarters was unexpectedly subdued. The modest quarters they were given felt more like a holding area than a place of honor. Carlisle's unease grew as he took in their surroundings, noting the lack of opulence he had anticipated. Edward, his frustration barely contained, paced the room. "This is absurd. Why are we being kept here like prisoners? We need to demand an audience with Aro now!" Carlisle, his face a mask of calm, silenced Edward with a sharp look. "We need to be patient. This isn't the reception I expected, but we must be cautious. We don't know what we're walking into." Esme, her voice soothing, tried to diffuse the tension. "Carlisle is right. Let's wait and see what the Volturi want. We need to stay together and be ready for whatever comes." Alice, who had been unusually silent, finally spoke up. "I've been trying to see what's coming, but everything is cloudy. It's like there's a fog over the future." Jasper, Bella, and Peter arrived at Volturi headquarters shortly after. They were led to a separate room by Felix, who had arranged a private meeting with Marcus. The tension in the air was palpable as they settled into the room, waiting for Marcus to arrive. Bella's hand tightened around Jasper's. "I'm scared, Jasper. What if they don't believe us?" Jasper squeezed her hand reassuringly. "We have the evidence, Bella. We have each other. Whatever happens, we'll face it together."

Meeting with Marcus

Marcus entered the room with a measured step, his gaze settling on each of them in turn. Felix closed the door behind him, the weight of the moment pressing down. Marcus's voice was calm but carried a note of authority. "I understand you have important information to share. Please, tell me everything." Jasper took a deep breath, stepping forward. "Marcus, we've uncovered evidence that Carlisle is planning a major upheaval in the vampire world. He intends to build an empire, enforce new feeding laws, and use Bella's shield as a central weapon. He's gathering an army for a takeover." Marcus's expression remained inscrutable as he listened, his eyes flicking to the documents spread out on the table. "Show me the evidence." Peter handed over the journal and other documents. Marcus took them, his eyes scanning the pages. The silence stretched as he read, punctuated only by the rustle of paper. Finally, Marcus looked up, his gaze piercing. "This is indeed serious. Carlisle's ambitions are dangerous and could destabilize the entire vampire society. Thank you for bringing this to my attention." Bella, her voice tremulous but determined, spoke up. "What will happen now?" Marcus's gaze softened slightly. "We will take this to Aro and Caius. Carlisle will have to answer for his actions. You have done well to bring this to us. For now, you are safe here. We will ensure your protection." Jasper nodded, his relief evident. "Thank you, Marcus. We'll trust in your judgment."

As they were escorted to their own quarters, the weight of the ordeal began to lift slightly. They had done their part, brought the truth to light. Now, they could only wait and hope that justice would prevail.

Edward's Impatient Encounter

The walls echoed with Edward's footsteps as he paced back and forth, waiting for the summons. The stone walls, cold and unyielding, only amplified his growing impatience. Jane, watching from a distance, remained a silent sentinel, her eyes never leaving Edward. Edward's frustration bubbled over as he stopped in front of Jane. "How much longer do we have to wait? Aro should have seen us by now." Jane didn't blink. "You'll be seen when it's time. Sit down, Edward." The rebuke hung in the air, the implied threat clear. Edward's hands clenched into fists, but he sat down, glaring at Jane with barely concealed rage.

The Cullens' Confrontation

Hours later, the Cullens were escorted from their quarters by Jane, her demeanor as frosty as ever. Edward's eyes flashed with defiance as he muttered, "It's about time." Jane's gaze, sharp and icy, fixed on him. "Mind your tongue, Edward, or I'll make you regret it." Carlisle, sensing the tension, laid a calming hand on Edward's shoulder. "Please, Edward. Let's get through this." They followed Jane down a long, imposing hallway, leading to grand double doors. Jane knocked once, the sound reverberating in the silence. A voice from within commanded, "Enter."

Inside, the room was dominated by three thrones, each occupied by one of the Volturi leaders: Aro, Caius, and Marcus. The atmosphere was thick with expectation as the Cullens entered. Aro stood, his expression a mix of curiosity and cool authority. "Welcome, Carlisle. It has indeed been a long time. Please, have a seat." As the Cullens settled, Felix knocked and entered, escorting Jasper, Bella, and Peter. The sight of Bella at Jasper's side drew a low growl from Edward, who immediately crossed the room, grabbing Bella's arm. "Who changed you? You should be next to me, not him!" Edward demanded, his voice tight with possessive anger. Jasper was in front of Edward in an instant, a deadly calm in his eyes. "Let her go, Edward. Now." Before the confrontation could escalate, Aro raised a hand. "Enough! Edward, release her and sit down."

Carlisle attempted to intervene, "Bella, who—" Aro cut him off sharply. "Silence, Carlisle. This is my court. Edward, take your seat." Edward, seething, reluctantly released Bella and returned to his seat. Bella, visibly shaken, was comforted by Jasper as they sat down together. Aro turned to Marcus. "Are Edward and Bella mates?" Marcus studied the couple, his eyes assessing. "No, they are not." Edward's face contorted with fury. "She is my wife! She belongs with me!" Aro's gaze hardened. "Human marriages hold no weight in our world. Only true mates or ritual mates are recognized. Esme's gasp drew their attention. "I believe Jasper and Bella are true mates. I've seen their bond grow over the past year." Marcus nodded, confirming Esme's observation. "They are true mates." Aro's voice softened slightly. "Then it is settled. Bella and Jasper, you will remain together." Edward sprang to his feet, his voice rising. "This isn't right! We were supposed to complete the mating ritual after her transformation!" Aro's patience wore thin. "There will be no mating ritual between you and Bella, Edward. Sit down and be silent."

Carlisle's Downfall

Felix spoke up, his voice resonating with authority. "Aro, this meeting is not solely about Edward's misguided complaints. We have uncovered some intresting treacherous activities." As Felix spoke, members of the Volturi guard moved behind the Cullens, their presence a silent but formidable reminder of the power in the room. Aro's gaze swept the assembly. "I thought this was for Edward's grievance, if it is not what is it for?" Jasper stood, his voice steady and clear. "I have brought evidence of Carlisle's betrayal. He has been plotting to overthrow the Volturi and establish himself as the ruler in the Americas." Aro gestured for the evidence to be presented. Volturi guards brought forward a table, spreading out maps, journals, and notes. Carlisle's face drained of color as he saw his plans laid bare. Edward, ever defiant, hissed quietly at Carlisle. "I told you not to keep that in the house!" Carlisle turned to Alice, desperation in his eyes. "Why didn't you see this coming?" Alice, her voice shaky, replied, "I couldn't see Bella, and I lost Jasper in my visions. I did my best. You can't be angry at me for something I could see."

Jasper methodically presented the evidence, detailing Carlisle's plans to build an empire and challenge the Volturi's authority. As he finished, Garrett and Anthony entered with several other vampires ready to testify about Carlisle's recruitment attempts. Each piece of evidence and testimony further condemned Carlisle. Aro's expression grew grimmer with each revelation. "Carlisle, this is serious. You sought to undermine our authority and betray us." Carlisle, his voice trembling, pleaded, "Aro, we've been friends for centuries. You know I wouldn't do this." Aro extended his hand. "Let me see the truth for myself." Carlisle hesitated, then offered his hand. As Aro read his thoughts, his face darkened. "

Carlisle, Edward, and Alice, you are guilty as charged. We will deliberate on your sentences. For now, you will return to your quarters." Edward leapt up, shouting, "This is a travesty! Jasper is framing us!" Aro silenced him with a glare. "Enough. Guards, escort them back to their rooms." As the guards led them away, Esme watched with a heavy heart. Marcus turned to her, his voice gentle. "Esme, would you be willing to stay in Volturi for a time?" Esme met Marcus's gaze, seeing a glimmer of compassion. "Yes, I would. Thank you." Marcus nodded to Jane. "Escort Esme to the Blue Room near my quarters. We will speak later."

Back in their quarters, Edward paced furiously. "This is all your fault, Carlisle!" he spat. "You ruined everything we worked for. Bella should have been mine! If you hadn't insisted on that ridiculous 'bodyguard' arrangement with Jasper, none of this would have happened!" Carlisle sank into a chair, his face in his hands. "Edward, please—" "No!" Edward snarled. "You don't get to speak. Your plans, your ambitions... and for what? Now we're all paying the price for your arrogance!" Alice stood silently by the window, her eyes unfocused. She had nothing to say, no visions to share.

Hours later, they were summoned back to the throne room. Aro's face was grim as he delivered their fate. "Carlisle, you will be executed. Edward will serve in the guard for the remainder of his life. Alice will share Carlisle's fate." Edward's eyes widened in horror, but before he could protest, Aro continued, "The sentence is final and will be carried out immediately." Carlisle's execution was carried out swiftly and without ceremony. Alice met the same fate, her defiant glare never wavering. Edward, still furious and now grief-stricken, was forcibly taken to his new quarters to begin his service in the guard.

With the sentences executed, Aro turned to Jasper and his party. "Jasper, when you first came to us, you were sentenced to servitude for your past actions. However, your recent loyalty and bravery have more than redeemed you. Your actions have safeguarded the Volturi and prevented a potential disaster." Jasper stood, meeting Aro's gaze with quiet resolve. "Thank you, Aro."

Aro continued, "In light of your service and the trust you've earned, we not only release you from your sentence but would like to offer you a position of great responsibility. You will be the Prince of the Americas, overseeing the laws and territories of Canada, the USA, and South America. You may choose your ruling team, but the final authority will be yours." Marcus added, "Your strategic mind and your ability to navigate complex situations make you an ideal candidate for this role. We believe you will bring stability and wisdom to the governance of the Americas." Caius, though stern, nodded in agreement. "Your actions have proven your worth. Do not make us regret this decision."

Jasper, taken aback by this unexpected turn of events, glanced at Bella, who gave him a supportive nod. He turned back to the Volturi leaders, his voice steady. "I am honored by your trust and this opportunity. I accept, and I will do my best to uphold this responsibility. Thank you for seeing beyond my past and giving me this chance to serve our kind in a new capacity." Aro smiled, pleased with Jasper's acceptance. "Excellent. We will arrange for the formal announcement and transition of power. You have earned this, Jasper. Lead well."

Later, as the dust settled from the day's events, Jasper found a moment of quiet contemplation. Bella sat beside him, her presence a comforting anchor in the tumultuous sea of recent events. Jasper's thoughts wandered to their first meeting, the instant connection he felt. Esme had once mentioned they were true mates, not just declared mates, and he now realized the truth in her words. Everything had conspired to bring them together, forging a bond that was unbreakable.

With the trust Bella placed in him, and the authority the Volturi had granted them, their future was clear. They would oversee the territories of Canada, the USA, and South America, ensuring justice and balance. Jasper felt a profound sense of relief and purpose, knowing they would build a life filled with meaning and strength.
He turned to Bella, his voice filled with quiet determination. "We have a new beginning, Bella. Together, with Charlie, Peter, Char, Emmett, and Rose, we'll make a strong and honest ruling team. It's time to start building our lives." Bella smiled, her eyes shining with love and hope. "I'm ready, Jasper. Let's make our future together." As they looked out into the night, the weight of the past lifted, leaving them free to embrace the promise of their shared future. The journey ahead would be challenging, but with each other, they were ready to face whatever came their way.

Epilogue: Dawn of a New Era

In the months that followed, Jasper and Bella established their new roles with dedication and integrity. They worked tirelessly to build a fair and just governance over the Americas, balancing strength with compassion. Charlie, Peter, Char, Emmett, and Rose proved to be invaluable allies, each bringing their unique strengths to the team. Together, they forged a ruling body that was respected and trusted by those they governed.
The Cullens, now scattered, found their own paths. Edward served in the guard in Italy under Aro's rule, his fiery temper gradually tempered by the harsh realities of his new life. Esme, under Marcus's guidance, found a new purpose within the Volturi, her gentle nature a soothing influence. The biggest surprise was finding Marcus was her true mate. As the years passed, Jasper and Bella's bond only grew stronger. They faced challenges and triumphs together, their love a beacon of hope and strength in the ever-changing world of vampires.
And so, from the ashes of betrayal and turmoil, a new era dawned. Jasper and Bella, true mates bound by fate, led their territories into a future where justice and love prevailed.