Race for the Throne

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Jasmine laughs at Brandon. "Serena you have my permission to tease him when I get pregnant." She opens the door. "I suppose you guys are hungry. I just want Sakura."

"Baby snatcher!" Vincent crys out. "Brandon, better be careful you may never see your kids."

Amelia smiles. "Sounds like your boys are on the move. If you will go into room two please, cadence will be right with you." She said.

Serena took Vincent's hand and they walked into the room. She gets ready and sits down on the table. "I wonder what all she will do today."

~~

"You look nice in the traditional gear." Brandon said winking at Jasmine. "I think we should greet them though. Come on, let's get you ready."

Cadence comes in. "Hello guys. I am going to do a quick checkup. I know you are going to Moldova, so I will get some ultrasound pictures for them. Goddess knows they will send telegraphs if I don't."

Vincent smiles and sits down. "You know them so well."

~~~~~~

Jasmine gets dressed. She is wearing a tamer official outfit from last year. It hits her that it was only a year ago since the beginning of the race. So much has happened. She also sent a messenger to the Lane's and made sure there was food ready.

She meets up with Brandon at the carriage house. Her parents are there with Sakura. She immediately takes her and twirls around with her. She kept the Miranda blue eyes and the red hair. "Just think Dad in a few years, she will have an official outfit of her own."

Serena goes through the basic exam with Cadence. “Am I doing well Cadence?” She asked.

Cadence was getting ready for the ultrasound pictures and put some gel on Serena. “Yes, you and the babies are doing very well. At this rate, there should be no major complications in your pregnancy.” She said. She puts the wand on Serena and looks for the babies. “Are you able to feel the babies move?”

“I can feel them move, yes. I can also physically feel them.” Serena said. It is a weird feeling, but it is tiring and sometimes hurts.”

Cadence finds the babies and takes a few shots at different angles. “One of your little boys is showing off for us today. He has his legs wide open.” She said chuckling. She finishes up and then hands Serena some napkins to clean herself up.

~~

Berenson sighs gently and shook his head. “You get those thoughts out of your head. Let her grow up before I start going crazy.” He said laughing.

Brandon was becoming impatient. He wanted to see his family but he was nervous as well. They were to be married next week. He paces nervously with his hands behind him.

"I felt the move for the first time yesterday." Vincent tells Cadence as he looks at the screen. "It is amazing how we can see them. I cannot wait to show them off. So any precautions for the trip, or are we set to go?"

Cadence finishes up and cleans off Serena. "No precautions, just listen to your body and don't push yourself."

~~~~~~~~

Jasmine stops Brandon's pacing. "You have nothing to worry about." Sakura does a raspberry at him. "See even she agrees."

The carriage pulls up and the guards open the door. They help Sarah out then George, and finally Caleb. "Welcome to Moldova!" Jasmine goes over and gives Sarah a half hug. "This is my sister Sakura. How was the trip? Are you guys tired or anything? We have plenty of room at the castle for you. If you want a homier setting, my parents have opened their house as well."

Madeline steps forward to take Sakura. "Let me take her while you are greeting family. It is nice to meet you Mr. and Mrs. Lawson. You remember Berenson Lane. I know he would like to talk to you as well. Oh and Nathaniel wants to extend an invite for all of you to have a meal at Mallory's."

"Oh it is nice to see you again. Look how pretty she is. Is this the traditional outfit you told me about. George how did you ever get out of Moldova?" Sarah teased him. "If you don't mind I would like to stretch these old bones. Oh Brandon, dear you are looking well. We miss both of you so much."

Serena smiled at Cadence as she gave her the pictures. “Thank you Cadence.” Serena said. “I will make sure to get plenty of rest.” She finishes getting dressed and takes Vincent’s hand as they leave the room. “I am so excited about going tomorrow.” She put her hands on her stomach. “I feel like I swallowed a watermelon.”

~~

Brandon hugged his grandparents as they came off the carriage. “I missed you too grandma.” He said with a smile. “It is so good to see you all again.” He then hugs his uncle. “I missed you.”

“It’s good to see you Brandon. I missed you too.” Caleb said as he hugged his nephew. He walked over to Berenson. “It’s been many a year sense I saw you last. I didn’t know you were married and had so many kids.” He said.

Berenson smiled and shook Caleb’s hand. “Sense we were in the military together. I didn’t know the Lawson’s were your parents. Mr. and Mrs. Lawson, it is a pleasure to meet you. I don’t remember you from when I was a child, I am sorry.” He said.

Junaluska walked over to Sarah. “It is a pleasure to meet you. I hope you traveled well. Please accept our hospitality.”

"Yes thank you." Vincent looks at the pictures. "Should we go show them to our parents? I am sure we can find them in the castle. Don't worry Cadence, I will make sure we all make it back safely."

He helps Serena up, grinning like a little boy. "Can we show my parents first?"

~~~~~~~~

Jasmine hugs Caleb. "It's been far too long. Now I have everything that I promised for you. Tomorrow is the official opening of the Solstice Festival. The only thing I ask that you attend is the pageant. Nathaniel and I are the featured dancers this year."

"Jasmine dear, I think they would like to rest for a little bit before going on a whirlwind tour of the Royal city." Madeline chastises her.

"It is a pleasure to meet you. I extend a royal welcome to all of you. Jasmine has bent over backwards to make sure your trip is a pleasurable one. I think she wants you to visit more." Lawrence shakes their hands.

"I must say that carriage is the fanciest I ever rode in, and the gentleman you sent over were the most polite. Is it always this warm here though?" Sarah asks.

"Don't worry, I made sure there were some nice muumuus for you Sarah." Jasmine takes her arm. "So where will you guys be staying, in the castle or at chateau Lane?"

“Why not?” Serena said with a smile. “We will be with my parents on the ride to Moldova tomorrow so we should see them and let them see first.” She said.

They were walking down the hall when they ran into Justin. “There you are, I was looking for you. Leigh Anne was kind enough to pack your things so we are going to head by this evening and load everything up. That way you can have an early start to the day tomorrow.” He said.

~~

“Either would be nice. I don’t want to put the Lane’s out of a room though at their house so I would think the castle.” George said as walked over. “I would like to walk around though first and stretch out. Riding in the carriage makes an old man stiff.” He said smiling.

Brandon chuckled. “It will be nice to have you at the castle grandpa.”

“Oh you wouldn’t be putting us out of a room.” Berenson said. “We would be more than happy to have you at our house.” He said. He was slightly disappointed though when George mentioned staying at the castle.

“As long as I get a good look around the city I don’t mind where I stay. It will be nice to be in a city for once. I don’t get out to one to much now and again.” Caleb said as he stretched.

"Perfect timing Dad, we wanted you to be the first ones to see the newest pictures of our boys. I felt them move last night. It was amazing." Vincent babble to Justin.

Justin smiles knowingly at his son. "Those are some beautiful boys you have there. Sam also gave Lee Ann a gift from us for Jasmine and Brandon. Please give them our congrats."

"Don't worry we will Dad." Vincent turns to Serena. "Now what do you want to do?"

~~~~~~

Jasmine smiles at Berenson. "Don't worry Dad, I am sure they will spend a lot of time at your place. Grandpa George, Grandma Sarah, and Caleb allow me to take you on a tour of the castle while your things are brought up to the room. We will have dinner at Mallorys."

Madeline goes over to Berenson. "She is right. I am sure you will be able to talk to them a lot while they are here. Maybe we can see if we can visit them as well."

“Why don’t we find your mom? I know she will want to see the boys as well.” Serena said. They walk towards the kitchen. “She might be helping the cook. Why don’t we try there first?” She asked.

~~

“That sounds nice. At least I will be able to find my way in the castle.” Caleb said.

Brandon walked over and smiled. “It is beautiful on the inside. I can’t wait to show you around.”

Berenson looked at Madeline and nodded his head. “I know, it’s just that I have so much I want to ask them.” He said. “I know this is their time though and I should show them respect.”

They go down to the kitchens. "Hello Mom, how are you today?" Vincent kisses Samantha's cheek.

"Oh please tell me they did an ultrasound and you have pictures." Samantha tell both of them. "Serena you are looking great. Have you seen your father?"

"Yes and yes." Vincent shows her the pictures. "He told us that you have the gift packed. Aren't they gorgeous mom?"

~~~~~~~

Jasmine walks slowly with Sarah and leads they way. She explains the area like she would if it was a tour. "Now here is the royal wing. We have stepped up security during the Solstice Celebration. However you are family, so you guys are all welcomed down the hall. Just let the guard at the end of the hall know. Brandon is staying in the guest wing as well for another week."

She leads them past the kitchen and to the guest wing. "Your rooms are next to Brandon's. Let me know if you are hungry, or if you need rest. I know how traveling can wear you out. Oh and tonight we will stop at the lane house unless it gets too late. That could be the case at Mallory's."

Serena smiles at Samantha. “Thank you Samantha, I feel pretty good right now though after lunch I will be ready for a nap. We are so ready to go to Moldova.” She said. “We wanted to show you the pictures first sense we will be traveling with my parents tomorrow. It wouldn’t be fair to show them and be away all week and keep you waiting.” She said smiling.

“We would go after Cadence and beat her with a stick.” Samantha said winking at her as she looked at the pictures. “I swear every time I see the pictures I get more excited.”

Serena put her hands on her stomach. “They are moving around. Samantha, would you like to feel the babies move?” She asked.

~~

George looks up at Samantha and yawns. “I think I need a nap before dinner. I don’t know if I could handle all that fun without a nap first.” He said with a twinkle in his eye.

Caleb chuckled. “I think dad is looking forward to a night out. I take it Mallory’s is the restaurant that your brother and his boyfriend own?” He asked.

“They are married now.” Brandon said with a smile. “They are very happy together. If you need me or anyone, please ask the guard. They will come and get us as soon as possible.” Brandon explained.

"I made sure that Brandon and I have off for most of the day. I have to go in for a physical and the final costume fitting, but that is not until after the speech. Thomas wanted to show us the flowers. Lorene should be arriving tomorrow as well. There is so much stuff to do before the wedding." Jasmine closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. "Oh my Dad would love to spend some time with you. The live in the town, so if you ever need a break just head there."

~~~~~~~~

Samantha nods. "Oh you can feel them now!" She puts her hand on Serena's stomach and tears come to her eyes. "Those are my grandbabies. Oh I am so proud of both of you."

"I felt them for the first time last night. It was amazing." Vincent tells her. "After we are done, I will take you to the room to lie down."

George and Sarah both nodded their heads. “We thank you both for your hospitality. Mr. and Mrs. Lane, we would like to take you up on your offer this week. I know you have a lot of questions.” Sarah said.

George had his eyes closed as he nodded his head. “Yes, but right now I would very much like to rest. Traveling takes a toll on one after they haven’t traveled so far in a long time.” He explained.

Brandon nodded his head. “I will help you to your rooms and make sure you are comfortable before I leave.” He said.

Berenson shook George’s hand. “Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Lawson. I appreciate you giving me a little time to answer my questions. I look forward to you coming to our home. Please come whenever you like.” He said as he smiled. He looked at Madeline. “We should go and let them rest. We will see them tonight at dinner.” He said as they began to walk away. He put Daniel on his shoulders. “You did really great today! I am proud of you.” He told Daniel.

~~

Serena hugs Samantha and smiles. “Don’t cry Samantha, believe me I can assure you that we too were crying last night.” She said wiping her own eyes. “Vincent, I am getting tired. If you would take me upstairs so I could get some rest.”

Samantha handed her a bowl. “Here take this to nibble on. It is some banana pudding.” She said.

“Thank you Samantha, it smells good.” Serena said licking her lips.

Jasmine helps Brandon with the Lawson's. "Now if you need me or Brandon, just come down to the royal wing. The guards will help you find us. We are expecting more people in the next couple d..." She stops herself knowing that Iverson and Kalista are among those people. She does not want to make either visits awkward and wonder if the Sentali's would consider staying at the Lanes. "I will be back later to help with dinner, oh and there are some nice outfits in the closets as well." She smirks knowing that there are the men's traditional outfits in there as well.

~~~

"Oh Mom thanks, you know how much I love the banana pudding." Vincent takes the bowl. "Now let me escort you up to the room and then we can share the pudding."

Brandon and Jasmine finally leave his grandparents and uncle alone in their rooms. It took a lot to cox Jasmine to leave, but she finally did so. He smiles as he takes her hand. “I think they need to rest Jasmine. They will be just fine.” He said. “Thank you for making sure that they are happy, it means a lot to me that you make them feel welcomed here.”

~~

Serena smiled as she took the pudding. She walked with Vincent up to their room at the royal wing. “I am tired, but I want some of this banana pudding.” She said. She takes a bite. “Your mother makes the best banana pudding.” She said. She took a spoonful and put it up to Vincent’s lips. “Open up so you can get big and strong.” She said winking at him.

"I am so careless though. Your Dad and Kalista are coming, and I don't want there to be any awkwardness. Do you think I should ask one of the families to stay with my parents?" Jasmine wrings her hands as they walk down the hall. "I am so excited to have them here. Caleb had a smile on his face! Who knows maybe he will meet a nice Moldovan lady to bring home with him."

~~~~~

Vincent laughs at Serena's antics. "Are you practicing for the boys? It will be a while before you can feed them. However if you feed me Mom's banana pudding, you can practice all you want. You should try her banana creme pie."

Brandon laughed at Jasmine. “That is asking for a miracle, isn’t it?” He asked. “I don’t think Uncle Caleb will find anyone but if he does, good for him. As far my father and Kalista goes it is something that they will have to face at some point. Father didn’t seem to let it bother him that he would be seeing them so the only one I might be worried about is Kalista.” He said.

~~

Serena laughed at Vincent as they took turns eating the banana pudding. “I know I have a long time before I can feed them, but it doesn’t mean I can’t practice.” She said winking at him. “I will have to ask her about her banana crème pie. Though right now I wonder if she can make a cheese cake…I could really go for some cheesecake.” She said licking her lips.

"She can be diplomatic when the situation arises." Jasmine leans her head on Brandon's shoulder. "So is there anything that needs to get done while they are sleeping? If you want we can start writing out some thank you notes. I cannot believe the gifts we are receiving."

~~~~~~

Vincent takes a bite. "Go ahead and take you nap." He knows exactly what he will be doing in the mean time. He takes the bowl from her and kisses her forehead. "I will wake you up in a few hours."

Brandon put his arm around Jasmine as she laid her head on his shoulder. “We should write some thank you notes. There have been so many beautiful gifts that we have received. I cannot thank them enough for them.” He said. They entered into what would become their room. There are more gifts on the bed. “Look, there are more gifts there.” He said.

~~

Serena smiles as she hugs Vincent. “Thank you Vincent. I need a good nap.” She said. She yawned as she walked over to the bed. She lied down and closed her eyes. “Please make sure I am up for dinner.” She said. She then blew him a kiss before falling asleep.

Jasmine shakes her head. "It is a good thing we have sometime." Jasmine goes to her desk. "Go ahead and open them, and I will start on the list that we have." She pulls out the list. "I know some royals have people to do this for them, but I find that impersonal."

~~~~~~~

Vincent leaves the room and heads to town. He goes to Sweet Delights and picks up a cheesecake with Lowanberry sauce. He returns to the room and watches Serena sleep. He finds a book on the nightstand. He opens it and reads it.

Brandon opens up one of the boxes on the bed and whistles. “This is a beautiful silver frame.” He said. He then opens up the second box. It was much smaller than the first one. He opens it up and smiles. “I think this one is beautiful. It’s from Prince Prescott and Princess Loraine. It is a beautiful necklace for you and a matching one for me.” Brandon said. He walked over and put the one around Jasmine’s neck. “It looks wonderful on you.” He said.

~~

Serena wakes up sometime later. She yawns and rolls over and opens her eyes slowly. She sees Vincent reading a book. “There you are. Our little ones are moving around.” She said with a smile.

Jasmine looks down at the necklace. "It is beautiful, but why didn't Lorene just give it to us? She is going to be here for the wedding. She is standing up."

There is a knock on the door. Jasmine looks up and sees Thomas. "Oh good I caught you both together. I just wanted to let you know that I got the flowers in for the leis. They will be put together tomorrow. I love the fact that you guys are doing a tradition wedding. Whoa look at all the swag. Man some of this stuff is top quality."

Jasmine goes over to Thomas and hugs him. "Thank you so much Thomas. One less thing I have to worry about."

Thomas looks at Brandon with his eyebrow raised.

~~~~~~~~~

Vincent goes over and feels his babies moving. "I don't think I will ever get over this feeling. And I got a surprise for you. But have you been a good girl?" Vincent raises his eyebrows.

“I don’t know why. Maybe they sent it in advanced so it wouldn’t get lost in their things?” Brandon said. “Oh wait, there is a letter here. It is from her parents and letting us know that they would be here tomorrow.” Brandon said chuckling. “Sorry about that. Ohh look at this, these are silk robes. Wow these are nice.” He said.

~~

Serena gives Vincent her doe eyes. “I am always a good girl, am I not?” She asked. She put her hand on his and smiled as they felt the babies move. “I can’t wait to let grandma and grandpa feel it.” She said. “So what did you get me?”

Jasmine releases Thomas. She sees the robes and goes over to touch them. "Wow these are really nice. They will be perfect for the honeymoon."

Thomas throws up his arms. "That is my cue to leave. I will see you at dinner. I cannot wait to meet the Lawsons."

Jasmine watches him leave. "I have to get back to these thank you notes." She hands him a piece of paper. "Just make sure you write down who and what is gifted." She sits back at the table and rubs her forehead.

~~~~~

"Well in order to get the surprise you have to get up. I am not ready to let you get away from me yet." Vincent winks and rubs her stomach some more. "This is amazing. It is not hurting you, is it?"

Brandon takes the piece of paper and the pen from Jasmine. He sees her looking just a little stressed. He looks at the gifts and then at her. He puts them down on the bed and walks over to stand behind her. He puts his hands on her shoulders and begins to rub. “I can tell something is bothering you. Let me help.” He said as he began to massage her shoulders .

~~

Serena shakes her head no. “No, it doesn’t hurt at all. The only time I hurt is when the babies are having a fight and begin to hit things inside.” She said chuckling. “I am just amazed that I can feel them. I cannot wait to hold them in my arms.” She said looking up at Vincent. “But I really want to know what the surprise is.” She gave him her puppy dog eyes.