The Seneschal informed Bo that Dakari had arrived to escort her to dinner. Bo descended down the staircase to the first floor and into the outer atrium in a stunning, paneled off-the-shoulder, pleated, red Chiffon dress that went to the floor with red shoes to match. Her hair styled in an intricate updo with pearls wrapped throughout her hair. She wore dripping pearl earrings, and a matching three-string pearl necklace. And in a touch recommended by the Seneschal Bo wore red gloves that reached up past her elbows.
As Bo approached Dakari she was finally able to gauge his height which was about six foot, two. He wore a cream white dress overcoat that reached down past his knees, different from what he wore during their audience earlier in the Throne Room. He still wore his purple sash across his shoulders, however, along with the same golden brooch with the short tassel. He wore white shoes, and he also wore white gloves.
"Milady, you look stunning." Dakari said as he reached for her hand and kissed it. Bo offered a huge smile in return. Bo thought she could listen to Dakari's accent all day long.
"Thank you. So do you." Bo replied. Dakari then offered his left arm to wit she placed her right arm through, and they walked out the door, and made their way towards dinner.
"So how do you find our hospitality?" Dakari asked.
"I find it overwhelming. This place is amazing. The size, the scale. The phone system is beyond awesome. The Seneschal take a bit getting use to, though. They're great but how they anticipate your every need is…unusual." Bo said. Dakari smiled.
"So, your family is an impressive group." Bo said.
"Thank you." Dakari replied.
"If I recall, you are third one born?" Bo asked.
"That is correct." Dakari replied.
"So not to be rude, but may I ask what kind of Fae are you?" Bo inquired.
"No worries. I am a hybrid. A Ranoruk from Mummy's side, and I inherited Mother's abilities." Dakari said.
"On my plane of existence the Ranoruk are…no longer around." Bo replied delicately.
"Extinct you mean?" Dakari said.
"Yes." Bo replied.
"That is what we have come to understand. But then again not many of them followed His Excellency when he left this plane of existence." Dakari said.
"You mean Trick? I mean Fitzpatrick, I mean Rana Fitzpatrick?" Bo stumbled not knowing what to call Trick in this context. Dakari chuckled.
"Yes, Fitzpatrick. Has he never explained to you what happened after the War of Five Ranas?"
"No, not yet. In fact, he just sprung the fact that you all exist the day before yesterday." Bo admitted.
"I see." Dakari said.
"So The Regnant said you all help her to rule. May I ask what's your role?"
"I am part of the Four Pillars within the Grand Strategum." Dakari answered.
"That deals with the politics, intelligence, legal, and the business aspects of the Presidium, right?"
'Correct. Very good."
"Trick informed us of that much. So, which part do you work in?"
"Intelligence."
"Well, a veritable James Bond." Bo quipped.
"Pardon?"
"There is a fictional character named James Bond from the movies. He is spy for the British Secret Service, their Intelligence agency. He is this handsome, debonair, action hero." Bo explained.
"I see. Am I in good company then?" Dakari asked.
"In my book for sure." Bo said a little too quickly which made her blush. Dakari smiled.
"It is my understanding you have children?" Dakari asked.
"Yes, four." Bo said proudly.
"My, my. Quite busy." Dakari teased.
"They are quadruplets." Bo said as she smiled.
"Intend to have more?" Dakari asked.
"You will have to speak to my partner on that one." Bo humorously replied. Dakari smiled.
"Do you have a family of your own?" Bo asked.
"No. In fact, none of us are married or have children of our own." Dakari replied. Bo looked at him with a curious look.
"Your parents don't give you crap about not having a family of your own yet?" Bo asked.
"I am sure they would be happy to see grandchildren. But I guess life has not presented the right situation or people." Dakari explained
"I can so relate." Bo said.
They arrived at the 25-foot tall ornate double doors of the Great Banquet Hall of the Presidium. Dakari nodded at the pair of Regnant Guard flanking the door. One stepped forward and opened the doors.
As Bo and Dakari walked through the doors Bo was stunned by the sight of it all. The Great Banquet Hall seemed larger than some large-scale convention halls with a sea of people milling about while an orchestra played in the background. It was evening time so the multitude of chandelier, floor lamps, and standard lighting contrasted against thieving sky that permeated thought the multitude of windows that covered three of the four walls and reach the ceiling. The long dining tables were beautifully decorated with large scale table pieces tables. The tables seemed to go on in the hall, and Bo did not know where it ended.
The Seneschal announced their arrival Bo which also startled Bo, and people in the immediate vicinity reacted with smiles, nods, and whsipers. Dakari led Bo further into the Great Banquet Hall.
"I thought this was only dinner?" Bo asked stunned.
"In a manner of speaking. It is the annual Parliamentary Banquet. We host one each year to encourage Parliamentary members, Delegational leaders and various representatives to mingle from the formality of the government strata."
"Someone should have told me. People are dressed so formally. I would have worn a different dress." Bo said suddenly feeling under-dressed.
"Nonsense! You look perfect." Dakari said.
"Spoken like a man." Bo shot. Dakari chuckled. Just then Trick and Vex walked up. They both bowed before Dakari who returned the bow.
"So this is the formal regalia of a Rana. You look amazing." Bo said.
Trick was dressed in the same style dress as Dakari, but instead of it being cream white, his was a deep forest green with a lighter green sash that went across his shoulders, with a similar golden brooch that Dakari wore.
"Like I said it has been awhile." Trick replied as he patted his chest.
"And Vex, you look downright proper." Bo said. There was no trace of the Goth style, not even his hairstyle.
"I know how to dress for the occasion." Vex said smartly. "You look amazing as always."
"Thank you, but I feel like I am not dressed right for the occasion." Bo said as she fidgeted.
"You look perfect." Trick said.
"Of course, a grandfather would say that. Look at this! This is all so grand, I feel like I am out of place." Bo said.
"You look amazing, the title of grandfather notwithstanding." Trick replied.
Just then The Regnant, The Queen Consort and His Serene Highness Antony Prescotti came up to Bo, Dakari, Trick, and Vex and everyone bowed and curtsied.
"Bo, you look amazing." The Queen Consort said.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Bo said.
"Bo was just protesting she was not dressed appropriately for the occasion." Dakari said.
"Nonsense! You are perfectly dressed." The Queen Consort replied.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. It is just this is all so grand." Bo said.
"I should have clarified that is was a Banquet." The Queen Consort said.
"I just want to make sure I am not embarrassingly under-dressed." Bo said.
"Don't let all of the formal wear fool you. As Helen said you are perfectly dressed." The Regnant chimed in.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Bo replied.
"I trust you were able to rest a bit?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty. I was able to call home and spend some quality talk time with the family." Bo replied.
"And how are they?" The Queen Consort asked.
"They are well, thank you. That is if my children don't kill Kenzi and Tamsin first." Bo replied. The Queen cocked her head slightly to one side.
"My two friends, Your Majesty. They are staying with my partner Lauren while I am here." Bo clarified.
"I understand." The Queen Consort replied.
"Dakari explained this is an annual affair? Looks like a ton of people are here." Bo asked.
"Yes, they are intended to allow the representatives to mingle and interact with one another socially without the glare of the formalities of government. We have found more agreements are made and issues resolved in such settings. But we do get the odd disagreement." The Queen Consort replied.
"About 20 years ago, two representatives had a disagreement and one nearly melted the other." Antony said.
"Oh my." Bo said.
'Oh my is right." The Queen said as she smiled.
"How many people are here?" Bo asked.
"There are 1500 tables, seating 100 people each so around 150,000, plus staff. The Queen Consort replied.
"How do you manage to work the room with this many people?" Bo asked.
"Our children and the principal heads of government assist us with the hosting. Spreading the wealth, so to speak. That way, our guests have an opportunity to bend their ears to express their views and positions on issues that concern them." The Queen Consort replied.
"This is quite the organizational effort." Bo commented.
"We discovered long ago discovered that both Maxima and Julian have a talent for event planning. So together, they lead the effort of planning the Banquet." The Queen Consort replied.
'Plus, they like people." Dakari said. The Queen Consort gave Dakari a quick, chastising look as she lightly rubbed the side of his face as he smiled. Just then Regent Saladin walked up with Grand Primus Antilo Cheles. They both bowed before the Ruling Couple.
"Your Majesties." Greeted Grand Primus Cheles. Then he turned to Trick and said as he extended his hand out, "Welcome back, Your Excellency!"
"You do me great honor, Grand Primus." As they clasped hands. Trick replied then turned to Bo
"My I introduce my grand-daughter, Isabeau. Isabaeu, this is Antilo Cheles, the Grand Primus of the Grand Strategum.
"Milady." Grand Primus Cheles said as he took her hand and kissed it. "You look stunning."
"Thank you. So you head up the Four Pillars?" Bo replied.
"Correct, Milady." Grand Primus Cheles answered.
"Enormous responsibility." Bo said.
"The affairs of the Grand Strategum most certainly keeps one on their toes." Grand Primus Cheles answered.
"Your Majesty, Grand Ducal Basil Roux-Durant would like a word?" Regent Saladin said to The Regnant.
"Duty calls. Antony, you had better join me on this one." The Regnant said.
"Yes, Mummy." Antony replied.
"Excuse us." The Regnant said, kissed her wife on the cheek, and then left with Antony and Regent Saladin.
"Dakari told me he works within the Intelligence Pillar. What does Antony do?" Bo asked.
"Antony is the Pashan of the Fae Army, and the Rana of the Prescotti Dynasty on the Tetrarch. He also patrons the City of Nassoria. It is one of the cities within the Prescotti homelands." The Queen Consort answered.
"I know what Rana means but what is a Pashan?"
"Commander-in-Chief." Trick replied.
"Oh." Bo said.
"Of a combined force of 100 million strong." Dakari explained. Bo and Vex's eyes went wide.
"And as the Rana of the Ruling Dynasty he represents ten Delegations representing an estimated 70 billion Fae." Grand Primus Cheles added.
"And also happens to be the eldest son of the Sovereign who reigns over a population of nearly 200 billion Fae. Impressive." Bo said. Everyone smiled.
Just then another beautiful red head walked up. She looked slightly older than The Queen Consort but not by much. She was also the same height as The Queen Consort and wore a light green dress. Her hair flowed down with long earrings, and a gold chain that ran from shoulder to shoulder. It looked like an official office chain. She also wore an emblem on the left side of her chest.
"Helen, we need you to come over and join this discussion." Grand Primus Cheles and Dakari bowed to the mysterious red head so Bo, Trick and Vex followed suit.
"Allow me to introduce my eldest sister, Grand Ducal Serene Highness Lill Arasgain Watsham. She is the head of the Atherley Delegation that represents my hometown. Our late father, Padraig Arasgain was the Grand Ducal Serene Highness before her."
"My respects to his memory." Trick said.
"Thank you, Fitzpatrick. Lovely to see you again!" Lillian said. "I just arrived a few hours ago so I was unable to catch up on all the gossip? You just returned today?"
"Yes, Your Excellency." Trick replied.
"And this must be the star of the show?" She looked to Bo.
'Yes, this is my grand-daughter, Isabeau."
"She is stunning. Must marry her off quickly." Lilian said.
"Thank you. But I already have a family." Bo said as smiled broadly.
"Well, they were smart to scoop you up quickly."
"Actually, I was smart to scoop her up."
"I like that. The aggressor. Speaks well of your character." Lillian replied then looked back to Trick. "Bearnard is here and will be glad to see you. Bearnard is our brother."
Trick took in a deep breath, exhaled then turned to Vex.
"This is Vex, my personal security detail." Then he turned to Vex and said "I may need your protection services tonight." Everyone smiled.
"I hate to steal my sister but…" She turned back to Helen. "You must come. Grand Ducal Tarin is being impossible about the watershed agreements we crafted after the last session of Parliament, and refuses to listen to reason. I think he just wants attention." Lillian said.
The Queen Consort turned to everyone. "Duty calls. We shall see you all when we seat for dinner."
Everyone either bowed or curtsied as the Queen Consort departed with her sister. Grand Primus Cheles remained.
"Again, Your Excellency, it has been way too long." Grand Primus Cheles said to Trick. "I trust you still enjoy a dram of Edetian bourbon?" as the Seneschal came up with more drinks for them all.
Trick nearly salivated. "I have not been able to enjoy a drop of it since I left the Presidium. You are very kind to remember."
After their drinks were handed out Grand Primus Cheles raised his glass. "To reunited friends."
Everyone toasted and together enjoyed a sip of their beverage.
"So I understand you are a great-grandfather as well?" Grand Primus Cheles asked.
"Yes. Four beautiful quadruplets." Trick said proudly.
"A toast to family." Grand Primus Cheles offered. They all toasted and took and sip.
As they finished their Serene Highness's Elena and Rimma approached with five other officials engaged in conversation.
"Primus Gracer! Honestly! Do you really believe that you can move for such an action? Businesses have been allowed to act freely without restriction for centuries and look at the prosperity it has brought forth. Surely, you cannot object to that!"
"Primus Cocher, I object to nothing of the sort. My argument is one of simple accountability."
"You mean oversight to the point of stagnating prosperity."
"I think you are overreacting, Primus Cocher." Said the taller, grey-ish haired one of the five.
"This is not an overreaction my dear Primus Andathis but simple diligence, and I will gladly remind you of it when you start proposing laws to support the position of Primus Gracer here."
"Do you have ears to the ground that we may not be aware of, Primus Cocher?" asked the lone woman among the five.
"It my responsibility, Primus Levasseur to remain well informed, otherwise how could I ever serve the interests of the business community."
"It is times like these I am so very thankful that I am an Engineer." Said the very tall, bald head man of the five.
Everyone chuckled.
"Taking advantage of the brief respite to make the introductions, if I may." He nodded towards Trick Bo and Vex. "This is Primus Satoru Gracer. He heads the Pillar of Politics. Primus Gracer nodded. He was about the same height as Bo, athletic build, dark black, wavy hair, with deep brown eyes.
"This is Primus Jann Cocher He heads the Pillar of Business." Primus Cocher nodded. He was close to six feet tall, athletic build. Had short, blondish-blond hair with green eyes.
"This is Primus Mira Levasseur. She heads the Pillar of Intelligence." Primus Levasseur nodded. She was just slightly shorter than Bo, lean build. She had brown hair which she wore up, and brown eyes to match.
"This is Primus Felix Andathis. He heads the Pillar of Law." Primus Andathis nodded. He was six feet tall. Thinly cut grey-ish brown hair, lean build and green eyes.
"And last but certainly not the least in anyone's book Engineer Prime Archibauld 'Archie" Bristolis. He heads the Brynai Society of Engineers who oversees the infrastructure of the Presidium to include all of our technology." Primus Bristolis nodded. He was close to seven feet-five inches tall. A giant of a man, with a bald head and a magnificently groomed white beard and moustache. His build was broad and muscular.
"Wow!" Bo blurted out.
"I am glad that a woman as beautiful as you are impressed. Are you an Engineer yourself?" Primus Bristolis smiled and said,
"No. I run a business back on my plane of existence and have to keep up with such things. Anyone whose job is to keep up infrastructure and IT has my sincere appreciation." Bo replied.
Primus Bristolis smiled and nodded.
"As Engineer Prime Bristolis noted, this lovely lady is Isabaeu Dennis. The gentleman behind her is Vex, personal security detail and you all remember Fitzpatrick. Isabaeu is his grand-daughter " Grand Primus said.
"Fitzpatrick. So good to see you again! You have been away too long." Primus Cocher said as he extended his hand.
"Thank you, Primus Cocher!" Trick replied.
Primus Cocher turned to Bo. "So Isabaeu."
"Please call me Bo."
"Very well then, Bo. As a businesswoman, what are your thoughts on our little conversation?" Primus Cocher asked.
"I don't think I should comment." Bo replied tentatively.
"Nonsense! A person who runs a business must have an opinion on such matters. Especially, one who is coming here arrogantly purporting to be the next Regnant, one would think."
Everyone looked shocked at Primus Cocher, except Bo who narrowed her eyes while Elena, Dakari, and Rimma darted their eyes between Bo and Primus Cocher.
"Primus Cocher!" Grand Primus admonished.
"It was not meant to be rude. I was only trying to engage her in a healthy exchange of ideologies. My apologies, Milady if I have offended you." And bowed his head slightly. Bo narrowed her eyes even further
"I agree with you Primus that businesses that are allowed to operate as intended can do an enormous of amount of good as a positive and contributing partner of the community in which they serve as well as the customers they serve." Bo replied.
"See, even she agrees." Primus Cocher said as he surveyed his colleagues in apparent triumph.
"However, businesses that do not serve as intended or operate with impunity without any consideration of the consumers they serve or the environment in which they serve, then I agree businesses should have sufficient restraints placed on them to ensure their compliance." Bo continued.
That caused Primus's Andathis and Levassuer to smile softly in response to Primus Cocher's deflated victory.
"But if businesses willingly defy to operate as intended, and willingly and openly defy to the constraints placed on them. Then I have no issue with them being eliminated and their place in the market given over to a more…compliant partner." Bo finished. Trick and Vex smiled proudly, while all four Primus's reacted with mouths slightly agape. Engineer Prime, however, let out a hard laugh, and took a sip of his drink.
"I trust you understand my…ideology on this, Your Excellency?" Bo said challengingly to Primus Cocher. Primus Cocher offered a slight nod and a smile, and raised his glass to Bo.
"Shall we continue to mingle?" Dakari offered his arm to Bo.
"Please." Bo said as she took his arm. Elena and Rimma offered their smiles as they watched them leave with Trick and Vex right behind them.
"I am impressed." Dakari said as they went deeper into the crowd.
"Experience will teach one quite a bit." Bo said. "Engineer Prime is the biggest man I have ever seen in my life. I thought Bruce was huge but holy cow he dwarfs Bruce!"
"And his size is nothing more than simple genetics." Dakari replied.
"Remind not to feed whatever milk he is drinking to my children." Bo said still taken with Engineer Prime. Dakari smiled.
"So I take it that Elena and Rimma work inside the Grand Strategum as well?" Bo asked.
"Elena is the Bashan…Commander-in-Chief, of the Knights of the Guard. A force of 10 million elite knights. As the Bashan she second only to Antony in rank inside of the Fae Army. All of us are members, but Elena competed to become the Bashan. If we ever gave battle on a scale that required the Combined Armies, Elena and the Knights of the Guard would serve as Antony's center in battle. Her other role…"
"Other role? Sounds like she has enough on her plate." Bo said. Dakari smiled.
"Her other role is as Deputy Regent."
"Of the Presidium?" Vex asked incredulous.
"Yes."
"Impressive." Vex said
"We all are in awe of Elena. Not only is she an exceptional warrior, she also a truly gifted statesmen. She has held positions within each of the Four Pillars, and served a sabbatical stint within the Monadori Sanctuary. Regent Saladin has been training and mentoring her along. If anything should ever happen to Regent Saladin she would become the next Regent of the Presidium." Dakari replied.
"You sound like a true admirer. That is cool to hear from a brother of a sister." Bo said.
"It is well-earned. Rimma is also quite remarkable. She has our parents' gift at forging partnerships and sewing together common agreements. She is technically Third Regent after Elena, but she works within the Parliamentary Council and liaison with the Grand Strategum. It is niche work, but it is absolutely essential work. She has her finger on the pulse of the Presidium." Dakari said.
"Wow." Bo replied.
As they surveyed the crowd they suddenly heard Dakari said under his breath, "Merde," which made Bo, Trick, and Vex look at him quickly.
A stunning woman approached them. She was five feet, ten inches tall, blond with her swept up she wore a curve-hugging sleek gold color shoulder-less dress that flowed that draped her feet as she walked. She wore rows of gold pearls wrapped around her neck like a choker and flowed down her chest. She wore, open-toed, four-inch gold shoes to match. Bo, Trick and Vex eyes were transfixed as she made her approach.
She had two gentlemen following behind her. The one on the woman's right was an extremely thin, white-haired man with an immaculately trimmed goatee and moustache to boot. He was dressed in a dark blue pants and suit coat that had four buttons and he wore an elaborate gold chain of office from shoulder to shoulder, and an emblem that he wore on his left chest. The gentlemen on her left one was five feet eight inches tall, average build, dark hair and skin with a beard cut along his jawline the same as Dakari's.
When they came upon them they all either bowed or curtsied. Dakari acknowledged the bow with a slight bow of his head.
"Your Serene Highness." The blond woman said.
"Theodosia. You look stunning as always." Dakari said.
"Why, thank you! You look sexy as always." She came up and planted a light kiss on his right cheek.
"Milady, this is Grand Ducal Highness Theodosia de Morvois of the LauDessar Dynasty. The gentleman to her right is Grand Ducal Highness Victor Savva of the Tulach Dynasty, and the gentleman on her left is Grand Ducal Highness Darius Vale of the Quedaerin Dynasty. Your Excellencies, this is…"
"Isabeau Dennis." Darius replied. Then he turned to Vex and Trick. "And this must be the bodyguard Vex." Vex nodded.
"Your Excellency." Darius offered a slight bow to Trick who bowed slightly in return.
"I see you are well-informed." Dakari commented.
"It is always good business to keep one's ear to the ground." Victor replied.
Thoedosia walked up to Bo and looked her up and down.
"My, you are beautiful for one who says she will be the next Queen. I must say it takes moxi to walk in here and make such a proclamation." Theodosia said.
"It is more than mere moxi, Your Excellency." Trick answered.
"Spoken like a true grandfather." Darius said.
"A very proud one at that, Your Excellency." Trick replied.
"And what about you, Your Excellency?" Victor said to Trick. "What is your endgame? Surely you could not be here simply to present your grand-daughter as the next Queen. Your must have other…objectives."
"My objective is as stated. To reveal and ensure Bo's destiny." Trick replied.
"Well, as we said. Quite the presumption to…" Victor started, but was interrupted by Dakari's attention that was called behind Theodosia. She noticed too, turned and there stood Antony with his hands clasped behind his back. Theodosia, Victor and Darius quickly either bowed or curtsied, and held it until Antony acknowledged it with a bow of his head. Bo raised her eyebrows at how fast their cocky demeanor switched off at the sight of Antony. When the three righted themselves Antony just stared at Theodosia with a hard look.
"Your Serene Highness, I was hoping we could have a moment in private." Theodosia asked. Antony maintained his hard stare at Theodosia. Theodosia stepped up closer to Antony.
"Antony. Please."
His Serene Highness Jock Prescotti approached from the side. Dakari gave Jock a wary look.
Jock understood the cue, came up and clapsed Antony's shoulder.
"Dear brother, I saw Uncle Bearnard around here somewhere. I am sure he is looking for you in order to clank a few tankards. Let us go find him." Jock said.
"Your Serene Highness." Theodosia said to Jock.
"Theodosia. You look lovely as always. Trust I will see you at the Meditation Sacramental?" Jock asked.
"You know, I hardly ever miss an occasion." Theodosia replied. Jock offered a slight nod then turned his brother around and they both walked off.
Theodosia let out a frustrated sigh, turned and faced Dakari.
"What else are brothers for, except for blocking, I guess, right?" Theodosia commented. Dakari said nothing.
"He will have to speak to me someday." Theodosia said to Dakari who still said nothing.
"Theodosia, we should go find Primus Lavassuer. We have much to discuss with her before the next Convocation of Parliament." Victor said.
"Quite right." She went up and kissed Dakari again on the cheek. "If you will excuse us." She said as she surveyed Bo, Trick, and Vex. Then her entourage all either bowed or curtsied to Dakari's acknowledged bow, turned and left.
"An ex of Antony's?" Bo asked. Dakari see-sawed his head.
"Well, she is breathtaking." Bo commented.
"Quite." Dakari replied.
"Well, they were quick to change their tone around Antony." Bo said.
"My brother is a man who brooks very little."
"How so?" Bo asked.
Dakari thought for a moment then answered, "One time, a small contingent was dispatched to quell an uprising within one of the Delegations. Antony and Elena headed the force, and Ariella and I were part of the contingent. We gave battle and we prevailed, but in order to demonstrate a lesson against any future rebellions Antony, before the assembled contingencies cut the throat of the opposing head, allowed his blood to pool just high enough, held his head in it, and drowned him in it."
Bo, Trick and Vex all looked at him shocked.
"My brother is a loving man, and a devoted son. But any threat to our parents or their seat of power and he will exercise an absolute ruthlessness to defend it."
'Evidently." Bo said. "So what is a Meditation Sacramental?" Bo asked.
"Colloquially speaking? Church." Trick answered.
'My mother would love that." Bo said.
"I take it your mother is a spiritual woman?" Dakari asked.
"Very."
"She would do well at the Monadori Sanctuary then."
"Is Jock a Reverend or something?"
"Jock works within the Pillar of Law and Atia works with me within the Intelligence Pillar, but both took their vows as Adherents of the Sanctuary some time ago." Dakari explained.
"I have been meaning to ask, what do the emblems on the chests of the Grand Ducals signify?"
"The ducal house they represent. The chain they wear across their shoulders signify their status as Grand Ducals." Trick answered.
"Would you all like another drink?" Dakari asked. They all nodded and made their way to the nearest bar.
As they approached the bar Ariella and Atia were there talking with a small group of people. Trick was about to follow them when he saw a woman in the distance he recognized.
"Bo, do you mind if leave you with His Serene Highness? I see an old friend." Trick inquired.
"No, please. Enjoy yourself." She bent down and kissed him on the cheek, and then Trick and Vex disappeared into the crowd. Bo returned her attention to Ariella and Atia and the bar.
"My poor sisters. They are surrounded by the Khanak and Nassorian Delegations from our homelands. My sisters are Patrons respectively. The representatives always use the Banquet as an opportunity to seek special interest." Dakari explained.
"Well, that is the point of the Banquet, right?" Bo said.
"Yes it is, but they are unabashed about it." Dakari replied.
Ariella looked over to them and raised an eyebrow.
"My sister wants to be rescued." Dakari said
"Are you going to rescue her?" Bo asked.
"No." Dakari replied. Bo chuckled.
"Ariella? The name sounds pretty similar to Ari." Bo noted.
"Yes. Mummy's name is Ariella as well. Mummy calls Ariella 'Junior' when she wants to tease her." Dakari said. Bo chuckled again.
Then the Seneschal who were working the bar came up with their drinks. Bo looked at the Seneschal amazed.
"You know, we need them back at the Dal. Their abilities are simply amazing." Bo said. Dakari smiled as they sipped their drinks.
"So what does Ariella do?" Bo asked.
"She is the Deputy Bashan for the Knights of the Guard, and also works within the Pillar of Politics. Ariella is a natural warrior and leader. Out of all of us, Ariella has a near symbiotic relationship with our Mummy in that way." Dakari explained.
"I understand. Out of all of our children, MaryAoife seems to have Lauren's nature. I swear, personality and genetics have nothing to do with one another. It is purely about influence." Bo replied.
"You may have a point there. Shall we continue to mingle?" He asked.
"Let's." Bo replied.
While Bo and Dakari mingled on their own Trick and Vex made their way to the individual Trick intended on meeting when they heard the bellow, "Fitzpatrick!" Trick halted in his tracks like a startled deer, looking around from where the bellow emanated. Suddenly, a man stepped in front of them. He looked to be about six feet, four inches tall, a stocky bear of man. He had thick, long red hair, styled sticking up, with a long, thick matching red beard to boot.
"Grand Ducal Serene Highness Bearnard Arasgain!" Trick greeted nervously. Bearnard started to advance on Trick when Vex stepped in front of Trick, extended his hand out and with his Mesmer power halted the advance of Bearnard.
"Who is this dog?" Bearnard shouted.
"My personal security detail. His name is Vex. He is a Mesmer." Trick replied.
"Oh, he is a tickler, this one!" Bearnard said.
"There is more where that came from." Vex challenged.
"Oh, and a feisty one at that! Tell me my little Mesmer. What will you do when I am breathing down your very skinny little throat?" And then Bearnard stepped forward breaking out of Vex's Mesmer grip. Vex, taken aback, put his arm down, and backed up as Bearnard advanced, and came face to face with Vex. Trick slumped his shoulders and let out an exasperated breath.
"Grand Ducal Arasgain, I think the point has been made." Trick said.
"Oh, I think your little dog here needs a lesson in attacking his betters, don't you think?" Bearnard snarled. Vexed leaned back as Bearnard's face shifted, became more animalistic as his teeth turned into fangs.
"It has been a while since I have been on a hunt. This scrawny thing would be tickler of a meal but a meal nevertheless." Bearnard said as he snarled once again causing Vex to become a bit anxious.
"Your Excellency, please." Trick said.
"Oh very well!" Then Bearnard's image disappeared before Vex, and he was right back where Vex had initially stopped him. Vex was stunned.
"Bearnard's principal Fae ability is deception." Trick explained to Vex.
"You had me at hello, Mesmer!" Then Bearnard advanced and extended his hand out to Vex which Vex took nervously. Bearnard shook it hard as he grasped Vex's shoulder with a grip so tight Vex thought his shoulder would be crushed. Whatever other Fae abilities Bearnard possessed physical had to be one of them.
"Glad I could be of some entertainment." Vex said hesitatingly.
"Uncle Bearnard!" Jock bellowed as he and Antony approached. "We have been looking all over for you!"
"Your Serene Highnesses." Bearnard quickly bowed, and when Antony and Jock acknowledged it they all collided in a group embrace.
"Enough testosterone?" Vex whispered to Trick as they watched Antony, Jock, and Bearnard slap one another on the backs. Trick gave sigh.
"How are my favorite nephews?" Bearnard bellowed.
"Fine, fine. Just as all of the rest of your favorite nieces and nephews." Antony replied.
"Politics, politics!" Bearnard said.
"Your Excellency, do you mind if we steal our dear Uncle?" Jock asked.
"It is my loss." Trick replied with a hint of facetiousness.
"Hm. I just bet. But you and I have a great deal to discuss, Fitzpatrick. Particularly, this young phillie you brought along purporting to be Ari." Then Bearnard's eyes narrowed.
"That 'phillie' is my granddaughter." Trick said evenly.
"Even more to the case. Is this so-called pretender to the Throne the genuine article or a ruse to exercise a larger design?" Bearnard replied.
"The situation is as I have presented it." Trick replied.
"We shall see." Then Bearnard bent down closely into Trick's face. "What do they call you on you plane? Oh yes, Blood King. How so very apt." Trick looked at him anxiously.
Bearnard then raised up, turned to both Antony and Jock, and slapped them on their backs.
"Lead the way, boys! I am sure there are some fine phillies around here we can chase!" Then all three walked off.
"Oh. Dear. God." Vex commented as they watched them walk away. Trick nodded his head and was about to answer when a voice came from behind him.
"You just have to know when His Excellency is serious and when he is joking." A woman's voice said from behind. Trick turned and offered a warm smile. His intended target had found him. Vex saw it and knew what that kind of smile meant.
"Taoiseach Sandalli." Trick said as he offered a gallant bow.
"Your Excellency. It has been too long." She answered in a tone that matched Trick's broad smile.
"Your Excellency, allow me to introduce you to Vex, my personal security detail." Trick said.
She nodded as Vex offered the same gallant bow that Trick did. "Your Excellency."
"Vex, this is Eva Sandalli, Taoiseach of the Parliament of Fae." Trick said.
"Taoiseach?" Vex queried.
"Speaker of the House, so to speak." Trick replied.
"I trust his Grand Ducal Serene Highness was not overwhelming." Taoiseach Sandalli asked.
"Always." Trick answered. Taoiseach Sandalli smiled. She looked to Vex.
"Do not allow His Excellency's bravado influence your perception of his character. He is quite shrewd. Everything he does has meaning, including provoking you just now." Taoiseach Sandalli advised.
"I will keep that in mind." Vex said. Then he noticed that Taoiseach Sandalli and Trick looked long at one another.
"I think I too see a tankard of ale calling my name. By your leave, Your Excellency?" Vex said.
Trick was startled out of his long stare to reply, "On yes, please, sure. I will be fine. Catch up with me later?" Trick said. Vex smiled at them both, offered a slight nod and walked away.
"Fitzpatrick."
"Eva."
Vex walked up to the bar when a voice greeted him from behind.
"Enjoying yourself?"
Vex turned and saw it was Maxima who spoke. She wore a sleek, cream white dress that went down to her feet with matching shoes. She wore the purple sash across her shoulders denoting she was a member of the Ruling Family as she did during their audience earlier, but instead of her hair being up it was down. Vex found her even more captivating than when he first laid eyes on her in the Throne Room. He figured she must have felt the same. Vexed bowed and when she acknowledged the bow righted himself.
"Just had the pleasure of meeting His Grand Ducal Serene Highness Bearnard Arasgain." Vex lamented. Maxima let loose a broad grin.
"Did he behave?"
"Define 'behave.'" Vex said.
"Forgive my Uncle. He just likes to size people up." Maxima said.
"Evidently." Vex said as the Seneschal appeared with his drink.
"You people are amazing." Vex said to the Seneschal who bowed their head and walked away.
"So you never answered me. Are you enjoying yourself?" Maxima asked.
"This is all so surreal. There is nothing on our plane of existence that even comes close. I feel like I am just walking in a dream state, and I will eventually wake up passed out on the floor of the Dal." Vex replied
"The Dal?"
"A watering hole. Operative word being a 'hole'" Vex replied.
"I see."
"I understand you organized all of this?" Vex asked.
"Every year with help from my siblings, mostly Julian because he fantastic at logistics, and the staffs." Maxima replied.
"How? The Queen Consort said you have like 150,000 people here. How?" Vex said incredulous.
"Like I said, a great deal of support and assistance, but it goes off as planned, except for the odd disagreement here and there."
"I felt I was about to get into one with your Uncle."
"Like I said he was just testing the waters."
"Well, my admiration and compliments on your organizational skills. Most impressive."
"Thank you!"
"Is this your only job?"
"Oh no. I also handle the civic partnerships and engagements between the Parliament of Fae and communities they serve. I love working with communities out in the cities so my role is to coordinate the agreements made by the political bodies into translatable actions. I mostly deal with livability issues."
"From what I have seen of the Presidium it doesn't look like you have and livability issues."
"Like?"
"Homelessness, poverty."
"Oh no! Haven't had homelessness or poverty for hundreds of years. The concept is intolerable. Wars don't help, especially the last one. But afterwards the first order of business was setting the Realm to rights again. We still, however, have to ensure resources are balanced and quality of resources remains high. That is why we are constantly re-assessing and re-negotiating partnerships and agreements to ensure we maintain our balanced standard of living. These are the complexities that prove the most challenging, and I love it!" Maxima explained.
"Back on my plane you could have been President or a Prime Minister." Vex said.
"Thank you, and to brag, but I think my Patronage would miss me."
"Patronage?"
"My siblings and I each serve as Patrons for the cities that fall under the rule of the Prescotti Dynasty."
"What? Do they think you don't have enough to do already?" Vex asked Maxima chuckled.
"So what city do you patron?" Vex asked.
"The City of Nahala. The one that surrounds the Presidium."
"Like Washington D.C.?"
"Pardon?"
"There is a like set up back on my plane. How many people in the City of Nahala?" Vex asked.
"Hm. Roughly eight billion." Maxima answered.
"Billion?"
"Yes."
"You said billion? Not million, billion?"
"Yes."
"Scratch that last comment about being President or Prime Minister, Your Serene Highness. You could rule an entire planet!" Vex said. Maxima smiled wide.
"So you are a Mesmer?" Maxima asked.
"Yes. The last of my kind on my plane of existence, but from what I understand from Trick…I mean His Excellency there are Mesmers here on this plane." Vex replied. Maxima smiled.
"Your Serene Highness?" Vex queried. Maxima looked right and pointed in the distance.
"See that grouping over there?"
"Yes, Your Serene Highness."
"Well, that Grand Ducal Serene Highness Cerise Odalis. She from the Eoghan Delegation. Her Delegation represents quite a contingent of Mesmers who live in her region."
"How many?" Vex asked.
"About eight million." Maxima replied. Vex nearly dropped his drink.
"Come. Allow me to make the introductions." Maxima said as she took him by the arm, and they walked off in the direction of Grand Ducal Odalis observed by His Serene Highness Julian Prescotti.
XXXXX
"Lovely to see you again, Eva. You still look amazing." Trick said.
"Only amazing? Not at least fabulous?" Eva teased. Trick exhaled and smiled.
"You are still as handsome as ever."
"Thank you."
"So, I understand, you are here on business?" Taoiseach Sandalli asked.
"Word travels fast."
"Yes it does." Came a deep voice from behind them both. They both turned to find two gentlemen approaching them. Trick immediately recognized them both and bowed his head out respect.
"Rana Atherstone. Rana Chevalier." Trick said.
"Your Excellency. Welcome back to the Presidium!" Rana Atherstone said.
"Thank you! It has been a very busy day of events. One thing that has not changed about the Presidium is its efficient operation. I didn't realize how much I missed the hustle and bustle of it all though until today."
"That is reflective of our Warrior Queen, and her faithful Warrior Regent." Taoiseach Sandalli replied.
"Especially, how everyone's day starts at crack of dawn." lamented Rana Chevalier.
"Also reflective of the farmer in our Queen." Rana Atherstone said.
"Okay, I do not miss the early starts." Trick said. Everyone laughed.
"So Fitzpatrick, word has it you are here to ask for an intercession into your affairs on your own plane of existence?" Rana Chevalier asked.
"Yes, and a couple of other matters." Trick replied.
"Yes, we heard. That you somehow believe your grand-daughter is the next Regnant." Rana Atherstone.
"Yes. She will be evaluated by the Seer tomorrow." Trick replied.
"That is quite the belief." Rana Atherstone said.
"I am certain it will prove true." Trick replied.
"If it does not prove true, or if there is still some ambiguity, what are your plans?" Rana Atherstone asked.
"I'm sorry?" Trick replied not understanding the intent of the question..
"Will you remain here or return to your plane of existence?" Rana Atherstone clarified.
"While I have faith and confidence that it will prove true, if it does not then I will return to my plane of existence. I have great-grandchildren there."
"Congratulations. Do they make you proud?" Rana Chevalier asked.
"Yes they do even though they are only 14-months old, but they are the most beautiful children." Trick said proudly.
"Spoken like a true great-grandfather. How many do you have?" Rana Chevalier asked.
"Four. They are quadruplets." Trick replied.
"The reason why Rana Atherstone is posing the question is that Rana Cleve Stuart passed away a few months ago, and the Grand Ducals for his Dynasty have been hard pressed to fill the seat from amongst their own ranks. When Regent Saladin announced you intended visit during the last meeting of the Tetrarch the Grand Ducals became very interested."
"Rana Stuart passed away?" Trick said surprised.
"Yes, peacefully In his sleep. He was surrounded by his loved ones. His deteriorating health due to age allowed his family enough time to prepare."
"A sincere loss to the Realm. Honorable men like that should live forever. And now he joins Regnant Einiah and their fellow warriors in the afterlife." Trick commented.
"A toast to absent friends." Rana Atherstone offered as they all raised their glasses, clicked them, and took a drink.
Once they finished their toast Rana Atherstone looked long at Trick.
"So Your Excellency, are you ready to become the Rana for over 28 billion Fae?" Rana Atherstone asked. Now it was Trick's turn to have his mouth go agape.
XXXXXX
As Bo and Dakari continued to navigate the crowds they came upon His Serene Highness Julian Prescotti who was huddled in a conversation with five other women.
"Aunties." Dakari said as he offered a bow of his head, and then went up and kissed each one of them in turn on the cheek. They all smiled as they took in the sight of Bo.
"There is our very debonair nephew! Is this lovely lady someone you are trying to charm?"
"Please, allow me to introduce Isabaeu Dennis. She goes the nickname of Bo. She is the granddaughter of His Excellency, Fitzpatrick McCorrigan."
"Oh, this is the famed lady of the hour." One of the darker red heads had said.
"These are our Aunts. Dakari said to Bo as he made the introductions. "This is Grand Ducal Serene Highness Yaminah Prescotti. Mummy's eldest sister."
"Please call me Yammy." She said with a smile. Bo thought Yammy and The Regnant could pass for twins. She was about five feet, seven inches tall, and had struck Bo as if she hailed from Spain much like Dakari, very short black hair, a pixie cut almost with brown eyes. Her silhouette was perfectly lean liked she lived in yoga and pilates classes all day. Her decorum was graceful but her eyes were penetrating. Here dress was bluish purple. It was sleeveless which showed off her highly toned arms. Unlike most dresses, hers went down to just below the knees. She wore fantastic black four inch heels. She and Ari looked a lot alike and shared a similar demeanor.
"This is Grand Ducal Serene Highness Eshe Prescotti Kanane. Mummy's elder sister."
"Nice to meet you." Eshe said. Eshe was five feet, ten, was black and brown eyes. Athletic build with long beautifully curled hair that reached past her shoulders. She wore a strapless, sleeveless floor-length purple dress that had a side-draping ruffle to it. She had a warrior look to her as well, but her demeanor struck Bo as more of an empathetic, curious one.
"This is Grand Ducal Serene Highness Nehanda Prescotti. Mummy's youngest sibling."
"Good evening." Nehanda said. Nehanda was slightly shorter than Bo, was also black and had brown eyes. Her build was very lean, and her hair which she wore down was thick but styled straight and reached almost to nape of her back. She wore a stunning one shoulder, sleeveless red dress with criss-cross straps, and slight ruffles on the front that Bo thought was to die for. Her train was floor length with a split down the left side. Bo loved her look. She looked like a seductress, her eyes alone were powerful enough to draw a person in.
"Love your dress." Bo said. She found it hard not to comment.
"Nehanda never fails to turn everyone's heads." Ina said as she hugged Nehanda.
"Thank you to you both." Nehanda replied as she fell into Ina's hug.
"Nehanda and Ina are thick as thieves. Swear those two were separated at birth." Yammy said.
"Who knew that it would take a war and marriage to for us to meet and become the best of friends?" Nehanda said.
"Great friends are a great thing." Bo noted, suddenly missing everyone at home.
"And on that note, this is Grand Ducal Serene Highness Ina Arasgain Hasford. She is Mother's younger sister."
"Nice to meet you." Ina said. Ina was slightly taller than Bo. Her red hair was a deep auburn red that reached down past her shoulders that made her green eyes more intensive to the eye. She wore a trumpet-style, off the shoulder, sleeveless taffeta black dress with a brush train. She too had a lean build as if she lived in pilates classes all day.
"This is Grand Ducal Serene Highness Aline Arasgain Windridge. She is Mother's Elder sister.
"Lovely to meet you." said Aline. She was five foot, with slightly dark red hair, green eyes, average build, but she carried herself regally, like her sister Lillian. She wore an A-line, sleeveless, with a sweetheart neckline blue dress that reached to the floor with slight ruffles.
Bo surveyed the group of women
"Can I ask something?" Bo queried. They all looked at her inquisitively.
"What's your question?" Eshe was the first to answer.
"Is the beauty gene a natural part of your families' DNA. I have met most everyone so far in the family, and all of you are just gorgeous." Bo said.
"You must not have met Bearnard yet." Ina cracked. The group of women laughed.
"Has she met Lillian and Bearnard?" Aline asked Dakari.
"She was introduced to Aunt Lillian, but it was brief. Aunt Lillian swept Mother away to go deal with Grand Ducal Tarin."
"I swear he is becoming more and more unruly." Aline said to everyone.
"I am sure Lillian and Helen can handle him." Ina replied.
"He acts like he never receives the advantage in any agreement. Always needs to be placated. Exhausting, really. We must to speak with the Rana about him." Aline said.
"So, Bo, you are the grand-daughter of Fitzpatrick?" Eshe asked.
"It is our understanding that he believes you are the next Regnant?" Yammy asked.
"Yes." Bo replied ready to go on the defensive.
"That is quite the confidence he has in you." Nehanda joined.
"As I in him."
"So what do you do for living back on your plane of existence?" Ina asked.
"I run a bar called the Dal Riata."
"A bar?" Aline queried.
"A bar that also serves as way station for both the Light and Dark Fae. In addition to be an entertainment venue it also serves as sort of a point of service, if you will to provide Fae with employment, housing and other assistance as needed. Reason being, on my plane, the Fae are a hidden community, known only by a few humans."
"We understand." Eshe noted.
"You said Light and Dark Fae. Are they divided?" Yammy asked.
"Yes. Trick…Fitzpatrick created the divisions as part of the Blood Laws he established." Bo replied.
"So, I take it those Blood Laws have failed, and he is coming to the Presidium to basically clean up his mess?" Yammy asked.
There was nowhere to go with that one so Bo answered, "Yes."
"And just think what chaos he would have created had he remained here at the Presidium." Ina commented.
"He tried, remember, but Ari was smart enough not to allow it, and that is why Fitzpatrick left." Yammy said.
"Fortunate for us." Nehanda said. Eshe saw that Bo was becoming a little uncomfortable with the talk about Trick.
"I trust you are not totally naïve about your grandfather's past or nature?" Eshe queried.
"No, I am not. But a lot has happened since he left the Presidium to include the birth of his great-grandchildren. His perspective has since changed, and hence the reason why he is here asking for the Presidium's help." Bo replied.
"Do not take our attitude the wrong way about Fitzpatrick. We know who he really is and what he is really about. But you have to understand our perspective. We all fought in the War of the Five Ranas, and afterwards your grandfather had an opportunity to take his place on the Tetrarch. But he allowed his arrogance to get the better of him, and believed the approach Ari had taken to re-build the Fae Realm was the wrong one. He challenged Ari's authority, and Ari should have executed him, but instead allowed Fitzpatrick to leave the Presidium and at Fitzpatrick's request, start new colony of Fae on another plane. He did so, and now has returned some 1400 years later asking to be rescued, and even more so saying he has the next Regnant in tow. You will have to take a moment and appreciate our perspective as well." Yammy said.
"I do. And I thank you for sharing it. I respect it." Bo said.
"Well, well! Very diplomatic. You may be Sovereign material after all." Ina said.
Then Bearnard came up with Antony and Jock in tow.
"Hello ladies!" Bearnard said and offered a grand bow before them all. Antony and Jock kissed their aunts in turn.
'Look at all these handsome devils." Eshe said. Antony, Jock, Julian, and Dakari all smiled.
"Lovely to see you Bearnard." Nehanda said.
"Lovely to see you as well, Nehanda." He replied then looked at Yaminah.
"Hello, you sultry minx." Bearnard said with intent.
Yaminah exhaled. "Hello Bearnard."
"Is that all I get is a simple hello?" Bearnard said.
Yaminah just gave him a look. He turned to Bo.
"So this is the famous phillie, huh?"
"You must be the famed Grand Ducal Serene Highness Bearnard." Bo said as she extended her hand to shake his.
Bearnard looked at it and said, "You must not have enough gentlemen on you plane of existence. Men do not shake the hands of women, they kiss them." He then took her hand and kissed it.
"My, my, well. Thank you!" Bo said as she smiled broadly and blushed a bit.
"No, no. Thank you! You are quite the beauty." Bearnard replied. "But, I do have bone to pick with that grandfather of yours. He did not leave the Presidium here on perfect terms."
"We were just discussing that." Eshe commented.
"What's this I hear about an evaluation? With the Seer?" Bearnard asked.
"That is to occur tomorrow, Uncle." Dakari said.
"Hmp. Ari must have believed there was some merit to you claim, otherwise you would already be back on your plane of existence by now. To be frank, I am surprised Ari even countenanced a meeting, let alone Saladin." Bearnard said. Now that was the first piece of solid insight Bo had heard all night. Bearnard must have noticed the change on her face for he gave her a knowing smile and then returned his attention to Yaminah.
"When are you ever going to make an honest man of me?"
"Really Bearnard?" Yaminah said exasperated.
"Yammy, you know my attentions are true." Bearnard said as he reached out to her.
"Touch me, Bearnard, and I will eat the heart right out of your chest!" Yaminah warned.
"Yammy, why do you tease me like that?" Bearnard said humorously.
Yaminah rolled her eyes, made a scoffing noise, and walked off with Bearnard following her protesting behind her the whole time.
"Someday he will catch her." Aline commented.
"If he does I want front row seats." Nehanda said.
"Masilo and Choine would be floored if he did." Eshe added.
"Masilo and Chione?" Bo asked.
"Our siblings who are back home. This is the harvest season and we have to move our herds from one end of the lands to the next so Masilo and Chione are off taking care of that. We will leave to join them the day after tomorrow." Eshe explained.
"I am aware The Regnant was a farmer beforehand?" Bo asked.
"Oh yes, and loves it. If she had not been anointed by Destiny she would be at home farming away." Nehanda replied.
"And Helen would be right there with her." Ina added.
"Helen's a farmer too?" Bo asked.
"Not per se, but Helen is no slouch at tending land. Ari and Helen's Pilgrimage occurred during this time of year and after visiting the Temple, Ari and Helen spent a full month of their four-month Pilgrimage harvesting and herding on the homelands.
"Pilgrimage?" Bo asked.
"Honeymoon." Dakari answered.
"The Regnant took her new wife herding and harvesting on her honeymoon?" Bo asked incredulous.
"I know. Ari can be tone deaf about such things. I would have sued for divorce if my spouse took me harvesting and herding on our Pilgrimage." Aline said.
"You have to give to Helen, though. She was right there next to Ari the whole time, toiling away. You could see was happy simply being with Ari. She impressed our parents even more because of it, and it only made Ari fall in love with her even more." Eshe said.
"It will make you ill how much they are in love." Nehanda said.
"So true. And wherever Ari goes she goes, and if Ari leaves her behind for whatever reason Helen ensures an army goes with her to protect her." Ina said.
"I saw that during our audience today in the Throne Room. They seem to be the 'Jonathan and Jennifer Hart' of love." Bo replied.
"Pardon?" Nehanda asked.
"Sorry. Referencing a TV show called 'Hart to Hart.' It was about this couple who were crazy in love, always performing romantic gestures to one another." Bo replied.
"About sums up Ari and Helen." Ina replied.
Just then dinner was announced and everyone moved to their respective tables. As people proceeded to line up behind their seats Dakari led Bo to the Ruling Couple's table as a hush fell over the crowd as she was led to her seat. Dakari pulled back her chair for her. The hush of the crowd was about to give Bo a complex when she saw Trick standing behind a chair opposite her grinning broadly which boosted her confidence. She quickly looked to her right and saw The Regnant standing next to her seat, and met Bo's look with a smile which made Bo smile. Bo then looked to her left and saw The Queen Consort also smiling at her. Once Bo was situated The Regnant walked down to the opposite end of the table and pulled out The Queen Consort's chair. The Queen Consort kissed The Regnant on the cheek.
"Thank you, my love," and sat down. That cued everyone else in the Great Banquet Hall to take their seats and the cacophony of conversation and music resumed.
Once Dakari made sure Bo was situated he then sat down next to her on her right. Bo found that Grand Primus Cheles was seated on her left, and for some reason she felt glad for that. Just in the short while she had met him she found him charming and, after Dakari made her feel the most relaxed. Bo saw that Vex was seated behind Trick at a neighboring table next to Maxima. Bo took in a deep breath and dove into the dinner table conversation.
XXXXXX
After dinner Bo walked out to one of the many balconies that outlined the Great Banquet Hall to take in a bit of fresh air and was struck by the night sky illuminated by the lights from the City of Nahala.
"Hello." Came a voice behind her.
Bo turned and saw Her Serene Highness Emilia Prescotti standing there. Bo had noticed Emilia mingling around the room earlier in the evening, and since each of the siblings were spread about the 1500 tables entertaining guests this was the first time she was able to speak with her.
Emilia kept her hair up the same as she had in the Throne Room. But she work a stunning champagne white, sheath, V-neck floor-length, chiffon white dress that had silver jewelry along the v-cut, shoulder sleeves, and a diamond studded brooch-like belt that went across her waist as embellishments. She also wore the purple sash that she wore earlier to denote she was part of the ruling family. Bo thought Emilia looked like a queen. A very beautiful queen.
"Your Serene Highness." Bo said as she curtsied to Emilia.
"You do me great honor." Emilia replied.
'The honor is all mine."
"Taking in bit of fresh air, I see."
"A lot going on in there. Met a great many people. Had to take moment and get a breath of fresh air."
"The Parliamentary Banquet can be quite overwhelming."
"It is my understanding your siblings, Maxima and Julian put all of this together?"
"They lead the charge for sure." Emilia replied.
"My compliments." Bo said with admiration. Just then the Seneschal appeared with a bottle of red wine.
"I hope you don't mind. I took the liberty of ordering a bottle of red wine. I noticed you drinking it earlier." Emilia said.
"No. Do not mind at all." Bo replied. The Seneschal poured the wine, sat the bottle down and then left.
Emilia motioned Bo to two of the many big cushioned chairs arrayed out on the balcony so they could sit and take in the night sky.
"The views are breathtaking." Bo noted.
"The City of Nahala is truly one of the great cities of the Presidium, its proximity to the seat of government notwithstanding. It falls under our family's Dynasty. Maxima is its Patron."
'Do each of you patron a city?"
"Within our Dynasty, yes. Mine is the city of Diadin. Dakari's is the city of Muthoni."
"So what is your job around here?"
"I am a Physicist, principally. But I also work in other scientific fields such as genetics, but physics is my principal focus and my passion." Emilia answered.
"Impressive. My partner, Dr. Lauren Lewis, is also a Scientist. She heads the Joint Fae Medical facility back on our plane of existence."
"I am aware of her work, even on this plan of existence. We may not have traversed from this plane to yours but information most certainly does. Her work is brilliant. My compliments!" Emilia replied.
"Thank you! I shall tell her."
"I understand you have four children?"
"Yes, two boys, two girls. They are quads."
"Are they good children?"
"Yes. Very active, and very curious about the world around them. Ryan and Char are proving to be Frick and Frack."
"Pardon?"
"A terminology people use to describe they do everything together."
"Personalities showing already."
"Very much so with those two. They are constantly on the move."
"I love large families. An influence of my own upbringing, I guess. If and when I marry I want a large family." Emilia said.
"A toast then. To family." Bo said as she raised her glass.
"To family." Emilia replied. They toasted their glasses and drank.
"So I have been meaning to ask, Trick explained that your DNA is unpredictable so I understand the evident difference in ethnicities there, but ten and how?" Bo asked. The way Bo said her last statement made Emilia laugh.
"Well, how did you and Dr. Lewis conceive your children?"
"IVF."
"Same with my parents with a few differences."
"Such as?"
"First is gestation. Who carried your children? You or Dr. Lewis?"
"Lauren did."
"Unlike human gestation periods which are nine months. People who are impregnated by a Ranoruk have a 15-month gestation period."
Bo eyebrows went up. "Lauren would have never made it through a 15-month pregnancy."
Emilia smiled.
"Second, those impregnated by a Ranoruk carry all future potential pregnancies for life."
"What?"
"When my parents got married, as part of their Pilgrimage, they participated in a Consummation Ceremony at the Temple of the Ranoruks. The Temple resides within the Prescotti Homelands. That is where the impregnation, IVF as you call it, takes place. During the Pilgrimage, couples prepare their bodies, so to speak, for procreation. Unlike IVF processes on your plane where you can potentially have multiple births with a single IVF administration, once pregnant, you have that baby or babies within a nine-month period. If you and Dr. Lewis wanted more children you would have to go through a second IVF process." Emilia explained.
"Yes."
"With Ranoruk impregnations, after a single fertilization, a woman carries all her potential pregnancies over the course of her life, and can have them at any time over the course of her life. Not all pregnancies happen right away. Mother was fortunate to have Antony, Elena, Dakari and Ariella in rapid succession, but then there is 45-year age gap between Atia and Jock, 115-year age gap between Jock and Rimma, a 75-year age between myself and Julian, and a 250-year age gap between Julian and Maxima." Emilia said.
"So The Queen Consort is walking around potentially pregnant, could still have children, but yet never know when after a single IVF?" Bo asked.
"Correct." Emilia replied.
"Lauren is going to have field day with that one." Bo said as she shook her head. Emilia smiled.
"Which brings me to my second question. I am curious about how your parents look so young, and so beautiful? We can see where you all get your beauty from, and the youthfulness to boot, but how is that possible?" Bo asked. Emilia smiled.
"Thank you. I know. My parents hold their age exceptionally well. Even for the Fae. Trust me when I say there are quite a few Fae jealous about that."
"I am sure. How old are your parents, may I ask?"
"Mummy is over 2400 years old and Mother is over 2200 years old."
"They look fabulous." Bo said incredulous
"It bodes well for the rest of us." Emilia said.
"So how old is Antony, then?" Bo asked.
"Antony is close to 1400 years old. Maxima is the youngest at close to 850 years old."
"I won't dare ask how old you are." Bo said. Emilia laughed.
"No worries. I am not that vain. I am a little over 1150 years old."
"So Atia is one of the older siblings, correct?"
"Yes, good memory."
"So not to sound impolite but…"
"How does she look as young as Maxima if not younger?" Emilia anticipated.
"We all chalk it up to our Ranoruk genetics for Atia being the odd one out." Elena said as she walked out on the balcony with her sisters Ariella, Atia, and Rimma each with a bottle of wine in their hands. They all went and collapsed in some of the empty chairs next to Bo and Emilia.
"We are hiding." Atia said.
Rimma took off one of her shoes, and rubbed her feet.
"Man, dealing with the Primus's tonight took extra energy than usual." Rimma said in near frustration.
"And don't forget Theodosia's grand appearance." Ariella added.
"Staying away from all of that." Atia replied.
"Did anyone notice if Antony ever spoke to her?" Ariella asked.
"I was too busy trying to keep the Primus's appeased. Rimma answered.
"You handled Primus Cocher well. Obviously, he was testing your mettle." Elena said to Bo with admiration.
"Trust me, Your Serene Highness I have been tested by worse." Bo replied.
"Never fails. Every year, I find you all out here hiding." Maxima said as she walked out on the balcony.
Her siblings stood and applauded. Bo followed suit. Maxima did a short curtsey.
"And every year, you and Julian never fail to put on a fantastic event!" Rimma complimented.
"Thank you, Rimma." Maxima replied.
"Here, for you." Ariella said as she handed her a glass of wine. Maxima took it and collapsed in one of the empty chairs.
"Uncle Bearnard is in fine form tonight. He nearly ate your bodyguard from what I understand." Maxima said to Bo.
"Excuse me?" Bo asked.
"Prior to introducing Vex to Grand Ducal Serene Highness Odalis he told me of his encounter with our dear Uncle." Maxima replied.
"Our Uncle Bearnard is one of the fiercest warriors ever produced but his teasing is a matter of perspective." Rimma said to Bo.
"And taste." Atia added. They all chuckled.
"Well, he was chasing your Aunt Yammy." Bo said.
"He has been chasing her since the beginning of time." Elena said shaking her head.
"Are all of your Mother's siblings redheads?"
"All of them. Go figure that one." Rimma said.
"So does Vex know Grand Ducal Serene Highness Odalis?" Bo asked.
"No, but his Delegation represents quite a contingent of Mesmers." Maxima replied.
"Vex must have been beyond excited. On our plane he is presumed to be the last of the Mesmers." Bo said.
"He was very excited." Maxima replied.
Just then Tira, Maxima's principal staff member walked out onto the balcony, and curtsied before everyone.
Once acknowledged she rose and said, "Your Serene Highness, The Korfan Delegation is engaged in growing heated discussion with Engineer Prime Andathis over the proposed infrastructure improvement plan he has scheduled for the south end of the City at the end of the year. Your presence is needed."
"The Korfan Delegation represents the City of Nahala." Emilia leaned over and whispered to Bo.
"Duty calls." Maxima stood up as she put her glass down. "Catch up with you all later."
"Fantastic job again!" Emilia called after her.
"Here! Here!" The rest called out. They all raised their glasses as they watched Maxima leave with her assistant.
As Maxima and Tira made their way through the crowds Maxima saw Vex standing next to Trick in the distance, stopped and smiled. She motioned Tira ahead, and took a few moments to observe Vex engaged in conversation.
"Don't even think about it." Her brother Julian said as he came up behind her. Maxima turned and looked at Julian.
"My dear brother, I most certainly can pursue whomever I choose."
"Of course you can. Anyone you choose. Except that one." And he turned and walked away.
Maxima looked after her brother frustrated, shook her head and then went to catch up with her assistant.
About an hour and half later Dakari escorted Bo back to her private chambers, and said goodnight. She looked at the time, and saw it was far too late to call Lauren and the children. Instead of going upstairs to her bedroom, she went out on ground floor terrace and laid on a satee. Bo took in the night sky and reflected on the events of the evening as her eyes drifted off to sleep. The last thing she saw before she drifted off was the Seneschal covering her with a blanket.
