𝑬𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒑𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝟖

The first light of dawn began to filter into the room, and Aveline realized the night had slipped away faster than she expected. She had been so engrossed in the warmth and connection she felt with the others that she had almost forgotten the solemn duty that awaited them all in the throne room at sunrise. The sky outside was beginning to turn a pale shade of blue, a clear reminder that they needed to make their way to the throne room. The only ones left in the room were Felix, Demetri, and Aveline. The rest had left at different times during the night.

"Looks like it's about that time," Demetri remarked, his voice low and thoughtful as he too noticed the approaching dawn.

Felix stretched, standing up from the couch with a sigh. "Duty calls," he said, his tone a mix of resignation and acceptance. "But at least it's a short walk."

Aveline rose to her feet as well, a sense of calm settling over her. Despite the seriousness of what lay ahead, the night had done wonders to ease her anxiety. She felt more at ease, more confident that she could face whatever the Volturi had in store for her—especially with the support of these new allies.

"Shall we?" Felix asked, offering Aveline a grin that held none of the usual tension associated with heading to the throne room.

Aveline nodded, giving him a small smile in return. "Let's go."

The three of them made their way through the quiet halls of the Volturi fortress, the stillness of the early morning making their footsteps echo softly. The atmosphere was serene, a stark contrast to the weight of what was about to transpire. As they walked, the silence between them was companionable, each of them lost in their own thoughts yet comforted by the presence of the others.

When they reached the grand doors of the throne room, Aveline felt a subtle shift in the air. This was the heart of the Volturi's power, the place where all major decisions were made, and where her own future would be determined. She took a deep breath, steadying herself as Felix and Demetri each pushed open one of the heavy doors for her.

Inside, the room was as imposing as she imagined, with its high ceilings, ancient stone walls, and the grand thrones where Aro, Marcus, and Caius would soon sit. The Elite Guard was already beginning to gather, their expressions cold as they took their places around the room.

Jane and Alec were among the first to arrive, their playful demeanor replaced with a seriousness befitting the occasion. Aveline gave them both a small nod as she stepped inside, her gaze sweeping over the room to take in the scene.

"You're just in time," Jane commented, her voice quiet but laced with a hint of her usual sharpness. "The Masters will be here soon."

Aveline responded with a brief nod, feeling the weight of the task ahead settling on her shoulders. This was more than just another day in the Volturi's throne room—it was her chance to prove herself and her abilities before the kings and the entire guard. She should probably volunteer to gather the prisoners for the trials.

As if on cue, the double doors opened again, and Aro, Marcus, and Caius entered the room, their presence commanding immediate silence. The kings took their places on the thrones, each radiating a distinct aura of authority. Aveline could feel Marcus's eyes on her, a silent encouragement that bolstered her resolve.

Aro's voice broke the silence. "Let us begin." His tone was both welcoming and ominous, a reminder that the Volturi's justice was swift and unforgiving.

Aveline stepped forward, catching Aro's attention with a glance. "I volunteer to retrieve the prisoners from the dungeons," she offered, her voice steady and sure.

Aro's eyes gleamed with interest. "Very well, Aveline. Take Demetri and Felix with you."

She inclined her head respectfully, then turned on her heel, leading the way out of the throne room with Demetri and Felix flanking her. As they walked, Demetri began to brief her in a low, steady voice.