Kenzi arrived at the Clubhouse with Antony and Dakari and a contingent of the Regnant Guard in tow. Antony and Dakari looked at the Clubhouse, then at one another, then at Kenzi.

"I thought we were headed to your place?" Antony asked.

"This is it." Kenzi replied. Antony and Dakari looked at one another again, then back at Kenzi who noticed Tamsin standing outside looking off around the corner at something.

"Tamsin?" Kenzi called out as she walked up to her. Antony and Dakari followed. When she had done she followed Tamsin's gaze, and her mouth dropped.

"Holy crap! What happened to our backyard? We didn't even have a backyard this morning, and now we have a backyard!" Kenzi said incredulous.

"I know. All this was in motion when I arrived. I have been watching them since I got here, and I still cannot explain how they are doing all of this." Tamsin said. Both Tamsin and Kenzi looked back at Antony and Dakari.

"The Brynai Society of Engineers are very skilled." Dakari answered.

"And fast too, obviously." Tamsin said.

"In all the time I have lived here we have never eaten outside. But that is because we never had an outside to eat in. And certainly not like this! Who had this all done?" Kenzi asked.

"When The Regnant is being hosted it is the responsibility of her Accompaniment Staff to ensure the facilities are adequate." Darkari said as he looked around.

"Looks like they need to keep going with the rest of the place." Dakari said.

"Dakari." Antony gently chastised. "You must forgive my brother, he is not one to mince words."

"At least we know where he stands." Tamsin noted.

"It is my understanding you have the means to live in something less…run down." Antony said.

"Yes?" Kenzi queried.

"Why aren't you?" Dakari asked.

"I don't know. Nostalgia, I guess. This was Bo's place first. I met her here after she rescued me from the clutches of some lecherous bastard who drugged me at a bar one night. I was lifting wallets, but he was obviously interested in things other than lifted wallets." Kenzi said. Antony and Dakari both just looked at her.

"Wait, what do I smell?" Kenzi asked.

"A hog, and big one, and I mean big. It is being roasted over there. And on the other side over there is the farmer's market." Tamsin replied as she pointed over in the direction preparation deck.

"What the…" Kenzi said amazed.

"Looks like Mummy is doing the cooking tonight." Dakari said. Tamsin and Kenzi looked at Antony and Dakari surprised.

"Mummy is not often afforded the opportunity to cook back at the Presidium so whenever there is a window, she takes it. Shall we take a closer inspection ladies." Antony said as he motioned them forward.

The backyard of the Clubhouse was a junk heap. Bo, Kenzi, nor Tamsin used it for anything else other than parking their vehicles. The Brynai Society came in, cleared it all out, laid a hard foundation for the cooking and dining area. They built a grilling platform they called grates, but it was three solid walls all around with a no more than four feet high, ten feet wide and about 5 feet deep, with an embedded grate that matched the dimensions of the enclave but sat three feet off the ground. Under the grate there was fire pit burning nice and steady. On a spit that hovered a foot above the cooking grate was a five-foot long hog being slowly roasted overseen by The Seneschal. Its juices dripping through the grates and into the fire pit. Antony and Dakari admired the view.

"Wait until Mummy arrives to season it, cut it, and cook it some more in its juices." Antony said practically salivating. Kenzi smiled.

On the other side, under a beautifully decorated trellis was a veritable Farmer's market.

"Is this our personal grocery market?" Kenzi asked.

"Mummy was a farmer before she was The Regnant. She likes everything fresh. Our parents have a private Chateau with farming lands and herds. They visit their Chateau routinely just to tend farm. Mummy loves it. Says farming gives her peace of mind." Antony replied.

"Do you all farm?" Tamsin asked.

"Yes, whenever we visit our parent's Chateau or visit the Prescotti Homelands." Antony answered.

"Do you love it just as much?" Kenzi asked.

"Our Mummy loves to farm. Her children will love to farm." Dakari replied. Tamsin and Kenzi both laughed.

There were two huge preparation tables: one next to the grates, and one over by the farmer's market. The Seneschal were decorating and setting the table for the guests. The also created several seating areas with tall lamps, not fire torches, but lamps. Kenzi did not want to know how they did that. And it looked like they created a small play area for Bo and Lauren's children.

What Kenzi saw next made her jaw drop: three tapped caskets of wine.

"Shall we crack the casks?" Antony asked.

"Let's!" Kenzi said. The Seneschal cracked open the first cask, poured a glass and presented it to Kenzi.

"I am not wine connoisseur. If it tastes half-way decent I drink it." Kenzi admitted.

"Does it taste decent?" Antony asked. Kenzi took a sip.

"Oh my God! This is awesome!" She looked at the large cask.

"And a whole three casks of awesome." Antony said.

"Again, you have the means to do all of this. Why didn't you?" Dakari asked.

"Too lazy." Kenzi replied. Dakari smiled.

"Honestly, Your Serene Highness, we would have never left the Clubhouse if we even had one of these installed." Tamsin said.

"Well, then let's pour our glasses then, and check on the other improvements." Antony replied.

"Other improvements, Your Serene Highness, what other improvements? I didn't authorize any other improvements." Kenzi said.

"I am sure you will be happy with these ones." Antony replied as the Seneschal appeared. The Seneschal demonstrated the transportation technology to Kenzi and Tamsin right outside of the entrance into the Clubhouse, and then led everyone inside to demonstrate the communications technology. Antony informed the Seneschal that he wanted to demonstrate the communications technology himself.

"Both Mummy and Bo wanted to ensure you had these two pieces of technology so you both had ready access to Bo, Lauren and their children. This technology has also been installed inside the Ash Compound, and at JFM." Antony said.

"Wow! Thank you!" Kenzi replied as a few tears escaped her eyes. Tamsin placed an arm around her.

"Sorry about that. All this change is starting to hit close. A little over a week ago, we didn't even know you people existed. Now, everything is coming to a head." Kenzi explained.

"Never apologize for expressing love for those dearest to you." Antony replied gently. Kenzi smiled while it took everything in Tamsin's power to suppress a grin. Love was in the air. Then he looked slightly up. "Call Atia!"

The air shimmered which made both Kenzi and Tamsin take a back a few steps, and a beautiful young redhead appeared.

"Yes?" Atia answered.

"Testing the comms." Then Antony said, "These are two friends of Isabeau's. This is Kenzi, and this is Tamsin. Kenzi, Tamsin this is our sister Atia." Both Kenzi and Tamsin did a curtsey. Atia acknowledged it with a bow.

"Nice to meet you. I take my brothers are behaving?" Atia asked.

"So far so good, Your Serene Highness." Kenzi said.

"Glad to hear." Then Atia turned to Dakari. "I am glad you called. You and I have some work to do on the agreements between the Rosae and Orlina Delegations when you return. Seems appeasement is not working with the Orlina Delegation. It is all or nothing with them, now."

"Understood." Dakari replied.

"And Antony." Atia called out.

"Yes?"

"Theodosia left word." Dakari briefly looked over at his brother. Antony said nothing, but the look on his face conveyed that he was not happy with that news.

"Comms seem to be working. Clearly." Atia said as she measured Antony's silence. Then she turned her attention back to Kenzi.

"Nice to have met you. I trust you will be attending Isabeau's Installation Ceremony?"

"Would not miss it for the world." Kenzi replied.

"Look forward to meeting to you in person then. Take care of my brothers. See that they stay out of mischief." Atia said.

"We will try, Your Serene Highness." Kenzi replied. Atia then blew a kiss to her brothers.

"We love you." Atia said.

"We love you." Both Antony and Dakari replied in near unison. And the call ended.

"Wow! Close family." Tamsin said.

"Yes, we are." Antony answered. "Shall we move back outside, then" Antony's mood quickly amended as he motioned Kenzi ahead as Dakari did with Tamsin, as they went back outside.

Just then the Seneschal appeared with small round button in their hands.

"Let's see what Mummy has in mind." They touched it and a holographic screen came to life Tamsin and Kenzi's mouths went agape.

"What is that?" Kenzi asked.

"Our interface system." Antony replied.

"That is so cool. Has Lauren seen it?" kenzi asked.

"If the Seneschal and the Regnant Guard are staying with her I am sure she has" Antony replied as he read the screen, swiping the screen several times then nodded his head to the Seneschal, who then moved towards the grates.

"I know what Mummy plans for the meal. Might as well get ahead on it." Antony said as he headed for the grates.

"Antony, we should work on the sous part until Mummy arrives. You know how much she enjoys the grates part." Dakari said. Antony squinted at his brother.

"She almost always allows me to handle the grates part." Antony countered.

"After she has started it." Dakari reminded.

"The Seneschal did that for her already." Antony said. Tamsin and Kenzi looked between Dakari and Antony.

"I am sure just far enough for Mummy to finish up. Besides, I am sure we have a great deal of preparation to do." Dakari replied.

"Fine." Antony said as he went up to the cutting table. Kenzi followed.

"How can I help?" Kenzi asked. Antony pointed to a basket of vegetables on the farmer's market table to grab. Tamsin and Dakari lingered for a moment.

"Bullet dodged I take it?" Tamsin asked.

"You have no idea." Dakari said. "Shall we join them?"

After the Seneschal wrapped them all in aprons they proceeded to cut up the vegetables

"So how did you all come to know one another?" Dakari asked,

"After a bedroom pillow fight." Tamsin spoke up first.

"Pardon?" Dakari said a bit surprised.

"Forgive me, Your Serene Highness. An attempt at humor." Tamsin said. They all smiled.

"I always love to start out with that comment, because it's true. I was a cop when Bo, Kenzi and I met. In fact, it was during Atticus's case that our paths crossed, and then continued to cross when we suspected Bo of murder." Tamsin said.

"Is that another attempt at humor?" Dakari asked.

"Nope." Kenzi replied. Dakari's eyebrows raised.

"Prior to Bo coming to the County she did not know she was Fae and was unaware of the Fae world. She ran away from home and spent ten years killing people thinking she was some demon when in actuality she was satisfying her Succubus need to feed, but didn't know how to control it to stop herself from killing people. At the time Atticus's situation was happening we had already suspected Bo of attempted murder when a Dark Fae suffered a Succubi-like attack. We suspected Bo had reverted to her old killing habits to sustain her feeds. As that was happening there was an outright murder of a Fae with the same MO. When everything finally shook out we discovered the attempted murder we suspected Bo of was a result of her devolution due to her Dawning being triggered 200 years too early. The second, actual murder was at the hands of a human by the name of Dr. Issac Taft who was harvesting Fae DNA so he could turn himself and eventually others into Fae. It took a combined effort of us all to defeat him and shut down his operations." Tamsin recounted.

"That is quite the story." Dakari replied.

"Doesn't end there. I was a bounty hunter in a former life, and was paid hundreds of years ago to find and deliver a woman matching Bo's description to a client, in so many words. I never found her and thought she was a fantasy until I met Bo, and realized she was the one I was looking for all this time. When my client realized I had found her and insisted I deliver her to him I refused and threw myself over a cliff in a truck rather than turn Bo over. Dyson was with me but I knew he would survive because he could shift. I however, died, and was reborn. Bo and I bonded afterwards, and we have been bestfriends ever since." Tamsin finished.

"Powerful story." Dakari replied.

"So how did you come to meet Isabaeu? You said you met after being attacked?" Antony asked Kenzi.

"You can call her Bo, Your Serene Highness. I was a street rat stealing from people, living on the streets, and in the tunnels you saw earlier, I walked into the Bo was working at as a bartender, lifting wallets as I went along. This one guy came up, made conversation, offered me a free drink, and I took it, not knowing it was drugged until it hit me.

I staggered out of bar and into a garage elevator and he followed, but Bo saw what was happening and followed us. She cornered him in the elevator, chi-sucked the life out of him, then carried me here, to the Clubhouse. She dropped me on the couch to sleep it off while she packed up to run yet again. As she was about to walk out the door, she happened to kick a pop can that woke me up, and the rest as they say is history." Kenzi replied.

"Sounds like destiny was at work with you two as well." Antony said.

"I think about that often. That simple kicking of a pop can changed my life forever." Kenzi replied.

Trick showed up about an hour later and could not say what shocked him more: the sight of a newly constructed backyard, or the fact that Kenzi and Tamsin were actually cooking. When he approached, he bowed before Antony and Dakari.

"Your Serene Highnesses." Trick said.

"Your Excellency," as they both acknowledged the bow.

"Did I end up in the Twilight Zone?" Trick said as he looked between Kenzi and Tamsin.

"Ha! Ha! Very funny, Trickster" Kenzi replied as she added her chopped vegetables to a very large pot.

"Wow! Look at that hog! I was wondering what smelled so good." Trick admired.

"They even have casks of wine, and a bar set up." Tamsin said. Trick turned to the bar to see the Seneschal pouring him a drink.

"Is that Edetian whiskey?" The Seneschal nodded. Trick quickly walked over and took the glass.

"Bless you." Trick said as he took a slow sip. The Seneschal nodded.

"Is that something we should have at the Dal?" Kenzi asked.

"Edetian whiskey is one of the rarest whiskies ever made on any plane. Its allure is when you taste it, you salivate for more. It takes years for this whiskey to ferment. Years. And they do not make cheaper versions of it like they do liquor here. You always receive the genuine article." Trick said.

"Well, okay then." Kenzi replied.

"Mummy?" Dakari inquired.

"Is on her way. But Bo and Lauren should be here already." Trick said as he glanced at the time." However, Dyson, Reed, and Erik will be late because they have to address some prepatory details for tomorrow's meeting."

"I thought you all were supposed to be joining Ryan at one of his favorite clubs before coming here." Tamsin asked.

"Our meeting ran late with Atticus so the Regnant asked Evony and Ryan to meet her here instead" Trick replied.

"How did the meeting go with Atticus?" Kenzi asked.

"Very good. After tomorrow's meeting we will be in motion to make preparations for those willing Fae and the Under Fae that cannot live openly amongst humans to move to the Presidium." Trick replied then turned to Tamsin.

"You and Dyson are going to have a great deal of coordinative work to do. But it is my understanding Their Serene Highnesses Julian and Jock will be assisting you on the other end, plus The Regnant plans to send additional staff to coordinate with ours."

"Understood." Tamsin replied.

"This will be your first challenge as County Regent. My compliments." Dakari said.

"Your Serene Highness, you may be use to moving whole populations, but we are not. We are talking about coordinating the movement of all Fae from this County." Tamsin replied.

"Sounds to me like you have been doing that already with your triangulation efforts here with the Dal Riata. The difference is not in the process but in the scale of the process." Dakari said.

"I am glad you have confidence, Your Serene Highness." Tamsin replied.

"I most certainly do." Dakari said as he smiled his best charming smile at Tamsin. Tamsin blushed slightly. Antony, Kenzi and Trick all noticed of course. Kenzi didn't know if she should say what she was about to say next, but it came out of her mouth anyway.

"So how are you and Dyson doing lately?" Kenzi inquired. That made Dakari give a questioning look to Kenzi. Tamsin, however, gave Kenzi a slightly murderous one.

"Dyson? Am I missing something?" Dakari asked.

Tamsin turned to Dakari. "Dyson and I are going steady. For close to nine years now." Tamsin replied.

"Oh. I did not realize you were spoken for, but then again I should not be surprised." Dakari replied. Tamsin smiled.

"Well, I think we are pretty good here. Going to inside to change into something more confortable." Tamsin said as she brushed her hands, and stepped down from the preparation platform, and proceeded to walk towards the Clubhouse.

As she went she yelled back, "Kenzi! I could sure use some help picking out an outfit!"

Kenzi looked to Dakari. "Sorry to bust your mac, dude." Then she stepped off the platform following Tamsin inside the Clubhouse.

"So much for that, old boy!" Antony said as he gave his brother a teasing grin and dropped more veggies in pot.

Trick laughed to himself as he watched the whole exchange.

"Some things never change," as he took a sip of his drink. He then heard the pitter patter of stumbling feet to find his great-grandchildren being led in by Bo, Lauren, and Maddy.

"Wow! What happened here?" Lauren said as she and Bo walked in and took in the site of new Clubhouse backyard.

"Amazing isn't it? Welcome to the hospitality that is The Regnant." Trick said.

"Are those wine casks?" Lauren said as she went closer to them. The Seneschal poured glasses for her, Bo and Maddy.

"Thank you!" They each said in turn and took a sip of the wine. Lauren eyes opened.

"This wine is fantastic! Where did you get it? Oh wait, nevermind." Lauren said.

"Where are Kenzi and Tamsin?" Bo asked.

"Changing inside the house." Trick answered.

"I should go inside." Bo said.

"I think you should give them a minute." Trick said quickly as MaryAoife who by this time was on his lap trying to share her wet fist with him.

"Why? What's going on?" Bo asked.

"Roomie stuff." Trick answered. Bo rolled her eyes, turned, and went up and joined Lauren as she observed the cooking platform with the hog, the cooking pots, and the farmers market off to the side, and Antony and Dakari cutting away.

"The Seneschal are not helping you?" Lauren asked.

"Not when we do outings like this. Mummy likes to be hands-on. This is a rare honor for your family and friends." Dakari answered.

"And I am overwhelmed by the gesture." Bo replied.

Just then Ryan stumbled away from his great-grandfather in the direction of the platform. Lauren went over to intercept him. His toddling away caused Char to follow him.

"Frick and Frack, I swear." Bo said as she went to intercept Char.

"Proving out their personalities, eh?" Dakari said.

"These two especially." Lauren chimed in.

Lauren let Ryan pound on the steps of the platform while Char tried to actually climb them. Bo allowed her to crawl up a couple of stairs and then pulled her back down only to allow her do it again. This activity caused MaryAoife to buck as she wanted to be near the sudden action. Ethan had settled at Maddy's feet, perfectly content at pulling and tugging at the grass, and Maddy trying to stop him from eating it.

"There is a small play area over there." Trick said as he pointed.

"Now that is wisdom." Lauren said. They all moved the children over to the play area as the Seneschal set up chairs around it for them to sit and observe.

Just then Evony and Ryan Lambert walked in. Evony curtsied as Ryan bowed in the presence of both Bo and their Serene Highnesses. Evony scanned the backyard.

"This is quite the change." Evony observed.

"You are telling me." Ryan Lambert added. Bo went up and greeted Ryan with a hug while after Evony was served a drink went and sat next to Trick.

"Is that Antony and Dakari cooking up there?" Evony observed.

"Yep." Trick replied.

"That means…" Evony started.

"Ari will be cooking." Trick finished.

"She still loves to cook." Evony smiled apparently recalling a memory from long ago. Then she shook herself out of revelry.

"Where's Ari?" Evony asked.

"She is on her way. Dyson, Reed, and Erik will be arriving later." Trick replied.

"How did it go with Atticus?" Evony asked.

"Very well. The Regnant wants to discuss the post-game with us all when she arrives in preparation for tomorrow." Trick replied.

"Good idea. I have already been fielding calls from the Elders as to what all the hub-bub is about. Told them they would all find out tomorrow." Evony said.

"Me as well." Trick replied.

After Ryan and Bo greeted one another Ryan went over and greeted Lauren with a hug, and then Ryan took a look at the children.

"Okay, so which one of you is my namesake?" Ryan asked in his usual poking tone.

"Ryan." Bo chastised which caused his namesake to look up from the play area.

"Oh, there you are." Ryan said as he picked him up. He then turned to Bo.

"I was only joking." Ryan said.

"Yeah, I know, but still, you haven't seen them in a while." Bo said.

"I am his namesake." Ryan replied as his namesake played with his face and started patting it.

"And his Godfather." Lauren reminded.

"I know, I know." Then he looked to his name sake. "Nope, no teeth to bear here. Boy, they are really trained for that aren't they?"

"They see Dyson more often." Lauren said.

"Okay, Okay. I get it. I will see them more often. It is just hard at this age with them. Can't do anything with them. When they get older when they can race speedboats then I will come around more often." Ryan said. Both Bo and Lauren shook their heads.

Ryan then sat down in the play area with his namesake as his siblings proceeded to crawl over to him and pull on him everywhere. Bo and Lauren smiled.

"How you two manage four at once is amazing to me." Ryan said.

"We have a great deal of support, and we are thankful for everyone in our lives. Even you." Bo replied. Ryan smiled as he cooed at the children. Then he pulled something out if pocket and showed the children a little toy. He placed it on the ground and it moved and rolled around. The children were fascinated by it and tried to catch it. Then it broke into four separate pieces and grew in size at it went until it reached the size of soccer ball. Each child went after each one of them.

"What are those?" Lauren asked.

"Just simple balls that change shape as they go along. It will entertain them for hours." Ryan answered.

"It doesn't contain any moving parts, does it?" Bo asked.

"Nope, they can chew and slobber away on them." Ryan replied.

Then Tamsin and Kenzi emerged out of the Clubhouse, and greeted the new arrivals. Tamsin had changed and was wearing a simple, one-piece black jumpsuit with a belt, long earrings, flat shoes, and wore her hair down.

"Nice! What is the occasion?" Bo admired as she greeted Tamsin.

"Wanted to look nice for The Regnant." Tamsin replied.

"Uh-huh." Kenzi said as she greeted Evony, Ryan, Lauren, and then the four children.

"Did we not just talk about this?" Tamsin chastised.

"Okay, okay. No more teasing." Kenzi replied.

"What is going on?" Bo asked.

"Nothing." Tamsin said as she tried to downplay it all.

"Dakari likes Tamsin, and she is smitten by the attention." Kenzi said as she ran up back up to the platform before she got smacked by Tamsin.

"Kenzi! Ugh!" Tamsin rolled her eyes as she looked back at Bo. "Do not listen to her." Bo grinned.

"Is it true?" Bo asked. To divert the conversation Tamsin suddenly took interest in Evony, Ryan, Lauren and the children and greeted them each in turn. Bo looked to Lauren.

"It is moments like these I miss living here." Bo commented. Lauren smiled.

Then The Regnant, Jock, and Julian arrived, and everyone either bowed or curtsied while the four children gnawed on their new toys from Ryan. The Regnant looked at the Clubhouse then looked at her sons. Bo came up, followed by Kenzi and Tamsin.

"Welcome to the Clubhouse!" Bo said. The look on The Regnant's face as she surveyed the Clubhouse made Lauren grin.

"So this is where you lived?" The Regnant asked with a hint of incredulousness in her voice.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Bo answered. By this time Antony and Dakari came up and bowed before their mother.

"So I take it everything is in order?" The Regnant asked.

"Yes, Mummy." Dakari answered.

"Well, then take me on a tour of this…Clubhouse." The Regnant said.

"Our pleasure, Your Majesty." Bo said as she led the way. Kenzi and Tamsin followed along with Jock and Julian who exchanged wary looks with their brothers.

After the 15 minute tour, the Regnant emerged with Bo and their tour entourage, and was quickly greeted by the Seneschal with a drink. Then Evony and Trick came up.

"So did you enjoy the nickel and dime tour?" Evony asked.

"Evony." The Regnant chastised softly.

"Just being honest." Evony replied.

"So how is the hog looking?" The Regnant asked Antony.

"Looking good, Mummy. We left the final touches for you." Antony replied.

"Good. Bo, Lauren will you join me?" The Regnant asked.

"Sure." Lauren answered as Tamsin and Kenzi joined Ryan with the children.

As The Regnant, Bo and Lauren went up the grates Antony approached Kenzi.

"So what does surrounding area look like?" Antony asked.

"Fantastic! Your Serene Highness. So much to see! Kenzi I am sure would be glad to take you on a personal tour" Tamsin quickly chimed in giving Kenzi an evil revenge look.

"Thank you, Tams!" Giving her and evil loo right back.

"Shall we then?" Antony said as he extended his arm out for Kenzi to take. Kenzi took his arm, and gave Tamsin another evil look as they walked out of the backyard, and into the evening sunset. Dakari smiled.

Julian came up to Dakari. "We need to sit down with Fitzpatrick and Evony to discuss tomorrow."

"Alright." Dakari and Tamsin exchanged glances and then he walked off with his brother.

Up at the grates the Seneschal took The Regnant's outer jacket off and placed an apron around her as she went up to the grates and stoked the fire. She then she started to trim it down and seasoned it in a separate pan, then poured the juices of captured by a pot under the hog in the pan to simmer and cook as Bo and Lauren watched.

"So, Dr. Lewis how are your children enjoying their gifts from Helen?" The Regnant asked.

"Please, Your Majesty call me Lauren. They were allowed to enjoy them for about five minutes after you left then Maddy took them away after they started chewing on them." Lauren replied.

"Just like children. So how are you doing with all of this?" The Regnant asked Lauren.

"Honestly, Your Majesty, I still find all of this so surreal." Lauren answered.

"Had you ever heard about the Presidium beforehand?" The Regnant asked.

"Only rumors, Your Majesty. Frankly, I thought the Presidium was a myth. Who knew?" Lauren replied.

"Well, I think you will like it at the Presidium, and I am sure you will enjoy your new role." The Regnant asked.

"Your Majesty, May I ask a question?" Lauren asked.

"Absolutely."

"I am aware now of Trick's history with the Presidium, but Evony and Ryan's?" Lauren asked.

"I was going to ask the same thing." Bo chimed in.

"Fitzpatrick and Evony left the Presidium about 150 years after the War of Five Ranas. The realm was effectively broken after the war. When I ascended the Throne, I realized if the Fae Realm were to survive, real changes had to be made to ensure its stability and prosperity. Not everyone was happy with the changes we were trying to make, and thought they could forge a better solution. That was Fitzpatrick's rationale. He challenged me on it, and I could have had him executed for it, but instead I allowed him to depart the Presidium with Fae shared his perspective. Evony joined him for personal reasons. The rest is history." The Regnant replied as she cut more slices of meat off the hog,and transferred some of it into the vegetable pot Antony had started earlier.

"Evony has proven quite…dynamic shall we say?" Lauren noted. The Regnant smiled.

"You do not have to parse your words with me where Evony is concerned. She and I were together once." The Regnant said.

"If I may Your Majesty, you two seem so different." Lauren said.

"We are. And then were are not." The Regnant replied looking between both Bo and Lauren.

"I understand." Lauren said as she bobbed her head.

"The Lamberts are old friends of our family. Gaston and Celine Lambert, Ryan's parents hail from the LauDessar Dynasty, same as Evony. Gaston, Helen, Saladin, Evony, Fitzpatrick, and I were all friends. Ryan is like a nephew to both Helen and I. But when the war was over Ryan's parents decided to join Fitzpatrick on this plane of existence. The extended Lambert family was not happy with their decision but supported them. Even though I honored Fitzpatrick's request not to interfere, I had Saladin keep an ear out, and Ryan, being Ryan stayed in touch with his family. Ryan may strike a lot of people as a bit on the rogue side. But when it comes to his family he is utterly devoted. The extended family will be glad to see him again." The Regnant continued as she cut off some more meat and added it to the separate pans.

"The War of the Five Ranas was a war of arrogance. An inexcusable waste of Fae lives, but the conflict had to be met and overcome and we did exactly that. But as the Sovereign, anointed by Destiny to care for nearly 200 billion Fae I have made it my focus not to let it happen again. All of what you saw, Bo during your initial visit took 1400 years to forge together again, and I will fight to the death to preserve it. That is the same appreciation, the same commitment, the same fortitude I hope to instill in you as we make this journey together. Never think of reigning as an obligation, but as an honor and privilege. It is that attitude that has helped me to re-build the Presidium into the prosperous realm that it is. But I do not do this alone or rest on my laurels; I have the help, support, faith and love of the Realm and the people I love." The Regnant said.

"Yes, Your Majesty and thank you." Bo replied.

The Regnant, Bo and Lauren's attention was called back the play area where Ryan was showing the children how to change the structure of the toys he gave them. Ethan seemed to be fascinated with its movement while Char and Ryan tried to pelt one other with them once they realized they could not eat them and MaryAoife kept trying to demand Ryan's attention to keep changing the shape of her ball. Ryan looked defeated trying to keep the attention of four children at once. Tamsin, however, looked on with apparent glee.

"See what I go through?" Tamsin commented.

"Well, you can help me out here a bit you know." Ryan replied.

"What and miss all this entertainment?" Tamsin said.

"Aw c'mon!" Ryan pleaded.

"Guess I will take pity…this time." Tamsin said as she went to referee the pelt fest going on between Char and Ryan.

"Your have four beautiful ones. Do you plan to have more?" The Regnant asked. Bo looked straight at Lauren.

"I do not make for a very good pregnant woman, Your Majesty. That is how we came upon the services of Maddy to help regulate my mood swings." Lauren answered.

"They were quite extreme?" The Regnant asked.

"Quite." Lauren replied.

"Was it because you were carrying Fae children?" The Regnant asked.

"I think it didn't matter. My mood would have been suckie, in any event." Lauren replied. They all laughed.

"Plus, we knew IVF could yield the possibilities of multiple births, but even we did not expect four, two perhaps, but not four." Lauren added.

"Helen's mood swings during pregnancy literally shake the Presidium." The Regnant said matter of factly as she drained both the meat and vegetables, put them aside, and then started to prepare the rice. "It didn't happen with all of the children, but whenever she had a difficult pregnancy, her telekinetic abilities would get the best of her."

"Oh dear." Lauren replied.

"We learned that the hard way after the first couple pregnancies, and found I had to call for her sisters to come stay at the Presidium to help manage her calm. Much like your Maddy. But our youngest, Maxima is nearly 850 years old so I think we are done." The Regnant replied then looked between Bo and Lauren.

"So, no more children then?" The Regnant asked. Lauren and Bo looked at one another, then Lauren reached out and stroked Bo's hair then looked back at the Regnant.

"Yes, these four are it." Lauren answered.

"Well, always keep yourself open to the possibility of more." The Regnant replied.

"Oh yes." Lauren answered. Then both Evony and Trick walked up.

"I saw you about to prepare the rice, Your Majesty. Need any help?" Evony asked The Regnant. Bo and Lauren about dropped their jaws.

"One cue. I trust you recall your role?" The Regnant asked.

"Your Majesty, how could I forget?" Evony said as the Seneschal wrapped her in an apron, and she went up and took over making the rice.

"What?" Evony queried Bo and Lauren at their reaction.

"I never thought you had it in you to be so…domestic." Lauren said.

"There are still many things you do not know I had in me. Contrary to what you think you might know." Evony replied with a hint of innuendo directed at Lauren. The Regnant looked to Bo and Lauren.

"There are many things I can do, but I have never mastered the art of making rice." The Regnant admitted

"All this and you cannot make rice, Your Majesty?" Lauren said astonished.

"I know, huh?" The Regnant replied with a smile. Then Darkari, Jock, and Julian came up.

"Jock, Julian, let's get everyone settled. Dinner is almost ready. Where is Antony?"

"On a walk with Kenzi."

"Dakari, go get him."

"Yes, Mummy." Dakari replied as he went off in search of his brother.

XXXXXX

Antony and Kenzi walked down the street, she swung her arms back and forth while he kept his hands behind his back.

"In all this movement I have not had the opportunity to properly introduce myself. My name is Anatonius Nassor Alasdair Prescotti."

"Wow! Quite the name. Majestic!" Kenzi said. Antony smiled.

"I was named after my Mummy, and both my grandfathers. We all carry rather 'majestic' names as you say."

"Well, I am Mackenzie Malikov, Your Serene Highness."

"Nice to formally meet you. And since we are in excepted company, please call me Antony."

"Okay."

"So how did you come to run the Dal?"

"It was Trick's idea to give Bo and me jobs. No, just kidding. Well…partially. He was about to become the Ash and he had to give up something so he thought it prudent to hand the management of the Dal over to us, to include taking care of any Fae coming to live within the County. Bo and I just took it to the next level. Leveraged our connections and we just kept building from there." Kenzi replied.

"Commendable."

"Thank you. We are quite proud of it all too. And thankful things have come together as they have."

"My siblings and I all have patronages and perform similar quality of life work."

"In addition to what you already do? Don't your run an Army, and are like in charge of what? Twenty Billion Fae?" Kenzi queried.

"We all have our roles."

"Well, it sounds like you have a few substantial ones." Kenzi said. Antony smiled.

"So, are you a woman who is spoken for?" Antony asked.

"Meaning, do I have someone?"

"Yes."

"Not for a while."

"Someone very special?" Antony asked.

"In more ways than you could know."

"Sounds special. My apologies, then." Antony said.

"For what?"

"Losing someone that obviously meant as much as they did to you." Antony replied.

They walked in silence for a bit then Kenzi glanced at Antony.

"His name was Hale. His family runs Clan Zamora. You will have the distinct pleasure of meeting his father tomorrow at the Elders meeting." Kenzi said. Her last statement dripping with sarcasm.

"You two do not get along?" Antony asked.

"He despises humans. And the circumstances surrounding Hale's death doesn't help any." Kenzi replied.

"I see." Antony said. Kenzi looked at Antony then looked back on the street as they walked.

"No, you really don't." Kenzi replied.

"Then enlighten me." Antony said. They walked some more in silence then Kenzi looked at Antony again.

"It took me a long time to come to grips with my own culpability in Hale's death. I struggled for a long time to be accepted in the Fae world. I use to joke about how I was surrounded by superhoroes, and here I was the lonely human. I thought I was too weak and useless for my friends, and wanted desperately to be like them to be of help to them. Not sure if you know that Evony had a son, named Massimo. From some drunken, one-night shack-up with a human. Well, she totally rejected him, and dumped him on Vex to raise."

"I am aware." Antony said evenly.

"Massimo was a self-described Druid who we all thought was Fae. We did not know he was human until after Bo had rescued Tamsin one night from his clutches to obtain a lock of her hair.

Well, he promised me he could get something that could turn me Fae. Being a con artist myself I should have seen his con coming miles away. If such a thing existed a lot more claimed humans would have been Fae, including Massimo, and he would have been rich because of it. But I was stupid and blind with desperation. I stole anything and everything I could find to pay him for Fae powers to include the Twig of Zamora. Hale was given the Twig of Zamora from his father to protect him from attacks by his enemies, and he gave it to me to protect me from Evony's wrath after the Elders were attacked by that same Dr. Taft. I had no real idea what it was so I gave it to Massimo as payment for Fae powers that proved temporary. Things went south all over the place, and one night Massimo broke into the Clubhouse and killed Hale in retaliation for having to recover a lock of Tamsin's Valkyrie hair Bo threw into a fire pit. Massimo, who had some very sick mommy issues by the way, didn't want to disappoint her so threw himself into the pit of fire to go after it. He was burned alive for days. He only survived because he had the twig of Zamora in his pocket at the time he fell into the fire. When he attacked Hale at the Clubhouse he had the twig in his pocket and so was able to repel Hale's siren attack, and killed him with my very own sword." Kenzi recounted.

They walked in silence for a long moment. Then Kenzi broke the silence.

"I blamed everyone for Hale's death. Lashed out at everyone for his death. I made everyone carry the burden of his death as if it they were personally responsible except for the one person that was responsible - me." Kenzi said.

They walked in silence. Then Kenzi looked at Antony.

"So sounds like you have someone back home. Theodosia?" Kenzi asked.

"Good memory." Antony replied.

"Interesting name not to remember."

"Her name is Theodosia de Morvois. She is the Grand Ducal of the Vrabereaux Delegation within the LauDessar Dynasty."

"Are you two still together?"

"Not for a while." Antony answered.

"May I ask why?"

"Differing points of view."

"Seems like she still matters." Kenzi said.

"I was hopeful."

"Any chances of a reconciliation?"

"No." Antony said firmly.

"Well, that was both quick and definitive."

"As it must be."

"Do you regret your break-up?" Kenzi asked.

"I regret what it became instead of what it could have become." Antony replied. Kenzi looked at Antony admiringly.

"Cleverly poetic." She said. Antony smiled. Then Kenzi stopped walking and looked straight at Antony. "Hey, how is it that I poured my heart out about Hale, and everything you said about this Theodosia was all cryptic."

"Years of experience I guess."

"With women?" Kenzi asked.

"With the Tetrarch." Antony replied. Kenzi laughed.

"Antony!" They both heard. A shadow flashed before them which made Kenzi adjust her eyes, and when she finished Dakari was coming up on them.

"Time for dinner." Dakari said.

"We will be there." Antony replied. Dakari then turned, went around a corner and then disappeared in a shadow.

"Wow. What was that?" Kenzi asked as she watched Dakari disappear.

Antony extended his arm to Kenzi. "Shall we?"

"Hm. Evasive. Poetic. Clever. And attractive. Mystery man." Kenzi replied. Antony smiled.

"So, tell me what else do you like?" Antony asked as they walked back.

"Well, I love music. I play the drums." Kenzi replied as they walked back to the Clubhouse.

After dinner, everyone had spread out to stretch and rest after the huge meal they had just consumed.

"Your Majesty, you should have warned us to wear stretchy pants." Ryan said as he laid on one of the many satee's spread out.

"A full stomach is a happy stomach." The Regnant replied. "Fitzpatrick, Bo, Lauren, Evony, a word aside." They all went and settled in a group of chairs.

"Bo, Lauren, we need to discuss a couple of items." The Regnant said.

"Yes, Your Majesty?" Bo queried.

"It is about Fitzpatrick's request to dissolve the marriage laws between Fae and Non-Fae." The Regnant said.

"Yes, Your Majesty? Bo queried.

"As you know, the laws that exist on this plane regarding marriage between Fae and Non-Fae exist at the Presidium as well." The Regnant said.

"It is where I got the idea to include the edict as part of my blood laws." Trick added.

"The distinction however, lies in treatment. Whereas, on this plane, romantic associations between Fae and Non-Fae are either ignored or punished by death depending on situational convenience, on my plane acceptance of romantic associations between Fae and Non-Fae, the siring children and living as a family is quite open, they just cannot marry. If they do in defiance of the laws, it is not punishable by death but by imprisonment." The Regnant said. Bo and Lauren looked at one another and held hands.

"For now, the Fae will be considerate of Lauren's role in your life, but once you ascend the Throne their toleration will cease, and the Fae Realm will not accept Lauren as your Queen Consort. Companion, yes. Queen Consort, no." Evony said.

"Is Lauren and our children in danger?" Bo asked between The Regnant, Trick, and Evony.

"No. Nor will they ever be. And your children are one hundred percent Fae. No one will ever question their status at the Presidium." The Regnant replied.

"How will this ever be managed?" Bo asked as she looked to Trick.

"It is not as if the concept is unknown, just not accepted beyond a companion status. What makes this situation unique is that it directly impacts a future sovereign." The Regnant said.

"So Lauren is not in any physical danger?" Bo asked.

"Absolutely not. We are not barbarians. If you ascend the throne, her status will simply be that of a companion, nothing more. Unmarried…and married…sovereigns have had companions in the past serve as their escorts, daily care, and comfort." The Regnant replied. Bo's hackles went up,

"Your Majesty, Lauren is not simply daily care or comfort."

"I meant no insult." The Regnant replied. Bo hackles went down.

"She is the woman I love, and the mother of our children." Bo said.

"And that is why we shall work to champion Fitzpatrick's request. And while I may be The Regnant I cannot be woefully inconsiderate of the impact and implications upon the Fae Realm. Even I have to succumb to the politics of the realm if I want to keep the peace. This question will take, time, debate, and discussion, and because of which so should your expectations. In summary, you must be patient." The Regnant replied. Bo took a deep breath.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I appreciate the consideration and support. This is the closest Lauren and I have ever come to addressing this question directly. I understand we will need to be patient, but what will make this wait bearable is how you have treated Lauren and our children. You have accepted them without question, and treated them with respect. I am grateful." Bo said.

"That is because she is the woman you love, and the mother of your children. But I will forewarn you, both you and Lauren will encounter those that will not be so accepting, and may so voice it." The Regnant answered.

"Lauren and I are veterans in the arena when it comes to peoples' displeasure over our relationship. We can handle what may come there, Your Majesty." Bo replied.

"That being said, I want to know if someone ever shows outright disrespect, because I assure you it will be addressed." The Regnant said with a determined intent in her voice.

"We will." Bo said.

"Lauren?" The Regnant queried.

"Like Bo said, Your Majesty, this is the most consideration we have ever had on this question, and I appreciate your candor and your consideration on the obstacles that we may face to address this question." Lauren replied.

"Spoken like a Queen Consort already." Evony complimented. Bo and Lauren smiled as they looked at one another.

"Now with that discussed…" The Regnant started but then the Seneschal appeared and bowed. The Regnant looked up.

"Your Majesty? Her Majesty." The Seneschal said. The Regnant stood up.

"I need to get that, but when I return I want to discuss our approach for tomorrow's meeting with your Elder Fae Council, so Bo is well prepared." The Regnant said.

That perked Bo up. "Your Majesty?"

"You will be leading the charge at the meeting tomorrow. No time like the present to get your feet wet." The Regnant said.

"Your Majesty, I have never lead a meeting of the Fae Elders, as in ever. Surely…"

"The reason why I am pushing you is when the next Queen has been identified then current one may not have long for life. Destiny is telling us both something here Bo, not clear as to what, but we have been given time and opportunity to prepare you and I am going to take full advantage, starting with this tiny Elder Fae Council."

"Your Majesty, they may seem tiny to you, but…" Bo said.

"As they will come to be with you." The Regnant replied. Then Agent Chennai appeared.

"Nadu! I was wondering when you were going to make it." The Regnant greeted.

"Your Majesty, a word?" Agent Chennai asked.

"Sure, but it needs to be a quick one. Helen is waiting for me to speak with her." The Regnant replied as they both followed the Seneschal into the Clubhouse.

Once inside The Regnant surveyed the Clubhouse.

"This place is a sight to behold." The Regnant said.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Agent Chennai acknowledged.

"You wanted a word, Nadu?" The Regnant asked.

"Yes, Your Majesty. As you are aware, Regent Saladin sent me here to gather intelligence on Bo's background, to include her family and friends to determine if anything or anyone within that background would pose a threat that would need to be eliminated."

"Yes. Report." The Regnant said.

"I have spent the past week observing the activities of the Dal Riata, speaking with Ms. Malikov and her business partners, Liam Kavanaugh, Ryan Lambert and the Mesmer, Vex. You recall, General Clust was his father."

"Yes, I do."

"I also spent time speaking with County Regent Thornwood, Erik Lykke, Rent Thornwood partner on the police force, and Reed Evangrassi, their Intelligence head. I also visited with Tamsin their Operational Head, and lastly spent a great deal of time speaking with Dr. Lauren Lewis and her staff at the JFM."

"Have you found anything?" The Regnant asked.

"All of her associates have significant, defined responsibilities within the hierarchy of the Fae structure, be it Fae or Human that would pose no threat to the Presidium, with the exception of one person." Agent Chennai reported.

"Who is that?"

"Ms. Mackenzie Malikov."

"Kenzi?" The Regnant asked.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"I thought Dr. Lewis would have been an issue."

"You are referring to circumstances surrounding her so-called 'de-fae' serum, Your Majesty?"

"Yes. Regent Saladin had included that notation in his briefing when Trick made his initial request to meet with me. That she had used it on Evony, but it was my understanding it proved unstable."

"Yes, Your Majesty. And not to sound indelicate, but I assume you are aware that Dr. Lewis and The Morrigan had a brief liaison."

"Very."

"Other than the circumstances surrounding the infamous de-fae serum, Dr. Lewis's standard of care she and her staff provides for the Fae, sans our technology of course would rival our quality of care back at the Presidium. Pretty straight-forward."

"Understood. Now what is this about this Kenzi?"

"Although, Ms. Mailkov human by birth, there is an unspoken belief among the Fae here that she may no longer be human."

"Explain."

"A little over ten years ago, Kenzi died sacrificing herself in order to close a portal to the Underworld to save all life on this plane of existence."

"Sounds like the actions of a warrior." The Regnant commented.

"She was later recovered, but even though there have been no clear indications, physical or otherwise that her human nature has changed, there is underlying suspicion she may no longer be human. Even County Regent Thornwood, who is a werewolf stated she did not smell like a Fae, but then she no longer smelled human either." Agent Chennai explained.

"And people suspect the discrepancy is from the fact that she died and returned from the Underworld?" The Regnant asked.

'Yes, Your Majesty."

"Suspicions not without merit." The Regnant replied. Agent Chennai offered a slight nod.

"Is she dangerous?" The Regnant asked.

"That remains to be seen."

"Meaning?"

"In my assessment, Your Majesty, she is not a threat to the seat of power that is the position of the Regnant. In fact she could prove quite loyal, not only to the Ruling Family but to the institution that is the Presidium because of her sacrifice."

"I hear a 'but' coming."

"She could be a threat to herself, and may not even realize it. Taking into consideration my interviews and what we know of such matters as Fae I would say she is not Fae, but someone who is supernatural. Someone truly unnatural to all of existence."

"Because she entered the Underworld, was recovered from the Underworld, and because of which, may be a part of it still and or have brought something back from the Underworld?"

"Yes, Your Majesty." Agent Chennai answered.

The Regnant shook her head. "But no reports of odd or aberrant behavior that could identify her as Fae or some type of supernatural being?"

"None that anyone could attribute directly to abilities unnatural to what they still understand her nature to be, which is human."

"Hm. Anything else?" The Regnant asked.

"Your Majesty, I have a recommendation."

"And that is?"

"I recommend Ms. Malikov join The Agency."

"What?"

"I know the recommendation sounds far-fetched, given what you just heard, but Ms. Malikov possesses an invaluable set of skills commensurate to what is needed at The Agency."

"A Human. At the Agency?"

"We are not sure if she is still human, Your Majesty."

"Unless she plainly demonstrates otherwise I cannot consider her to be anything else."

"Understand, Your Majesty. But my supporting argument is that I doubt The Princess Royal could function effectively without her."

"We have Bo's partner, the mother of their four children coming along."

"If I may be so bold Your Majesty, even though you have The Queen Consort and ten children of your own, could you have functioned effectively without Regent Saladin by your side? His Excellency is your dearest friend, who would die for you a hundred times over. Same holds true for Ms. Malikov with respect to her relationship with the Princess Royal."

The Regnant took in a deep breath. "You play dirty ball, Nadu."

"I would not be the effective Agent you expect me to be if I didn't, Your Majesty." Agent Chennai replied. The Regnant exhaled.

"Your Majesty, The Princess Royal is putting on a brave front in the face of finally realizing her destiny, and even though she will have Dr. Lewis and their four children with her, there would still remain a great hole in her life, and that hole would be the absence of Ms. Malikov. Plus, having Ms. Malikov there would help The Princess Royal acclimatize better to the Presidium if she had some familiar faces around her."

"Sounds like you are enamored with her as well." The Regnant said.

"I would be lying Your Majesty if I was not impressed with the programs she and The Princess Royal have established here to improve the lives of Fae on this plane. As you can see, the Fae live obscured lives here, and most in squalor or near squalor-like conditions. Ms. Malikov could walk away, but instead she chooses to help not only our kind, but those humans who have also endured tough challenges in their lives. We could use such skill sets at The Agency." Agent Chennai argued.

The Seneschal appeared giving The Regnant a plaintive look.

"Yes, Yes. I know." The Regnant said when she saw them. The Regnant turned to Agent Chennai.

"I need to get to Helen, but excellent reporting always. Incisive. Let me think on the Kenzi part." The Regnant said.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Agent Chennai replied, then curtsied as the Regnant departed to take a call from The Queen Consort.

Dyson, Reed and Erik arrived at the Clubhouse. Tamsin came up with the Seneschal, greeted Dyson with a kiss.

"Dinner is over, but can we get you something?" Tamsin asked.

"I am starving!" Reed said.

"Me too." Erik joined.

"I just want a drink. Dealing with the arriving Elders and their constant barrage of questions will try the patience of anyone." Dyson said.

"An ode of things to come." Tamsin assured as she rubbed his back. The Seneschal came up with beer for all three, and then led Erik and Reed to the table to serve them food. Tamsin remained.

"With all the news today, you and I need to talk. Really talk. Can we dart away somewhere?" Dyson said. But before Tamsin could answer Trick and Evony approached.

"How did everything go?" Trick asked.

"The Elders are arriving in a steady stream. Beatrice, Beverly and Evony's Assistant Naomi are getting them all settled. Looks like we will have full house tomorrow." Dyson reported.

"Good work." Trick replied.

"Atticus? How is his demeanor?" Evony asked.

"He is ready to leave for the Presidium now." Dyson replied. That made everyone chuckle.

"I am sure." Evony commented. Just then Dakari walked up and Dyson bowed.

"Your Serene Highness." Dyson greeted.

"Congratulations on your new role, Ash Thornwood." Dakari said

"Not quite yet, Your Serene Highness." Dyson chuckled a bit nervously.

"A formality at this point really. Rana McCorrigan has expressed great confidence in you. I am sure you will do just fine." Dakari said.

"Thank you, Your Serene Highness." Dyson replied.

"And I am sure with the lovely Tamsin by your side as your County Regent your success will be assured." Dakari looked attentively at Tamsin, which caused her to avert her eyes, and blush a bit. Her reaction did not go unnoticed. Tamsin tried to recover.

"You flatter me, Your Serene Highness." Tamsin said.

"That was my intent." Dakari replied.

"Thank you, Your Serene Highness." Dyson answered with an even tone and gaze. Dakari met his gaze.

"My compliments are genuine and I look forward to working with you as we forge this new working partnership." Dakari replied.

"Pardon, Your Serene Highness?" Dyson queried.

"The Agency will be working through me within the Intelligence Pillar when Presidium rule is fully transparent on this plane of existence. I look forward to working with you and Ms. Tamsin." Dakari replied.

"As are we, Your Serene Highness." Tamsin replied before Dyson could chime in. Trick decided to change the focus of the conversation.

"Your Serene Highness, can I speak with you more specifically about those details?" Trick said as he motioned in the direction of the bar.

"Of course, Your Excellency. I understand." Dakari then bowed his slightly then he and Trick head for the bar.

"Tam Tam!" Came a quick holler from Kenzi.

"What's up?" Tamsin answered.

"Dude, you left your cell in the house! You have a call from Clio!" Kenzi said.

"Oh, thanks!" She turned, gave Dyson a quick peck on the lips and then went inside the Clubhouse.

"Well, that was obvious. And a bit rude." Dyson said as he watched Dakari and Trick belly up to the bar.

"What? That he made his interest in Tamsin evident?" Evony asked.

"Yes! With me standing right here!" Dyson said.

"What you saw was a man who was unafraid to go after what he wants." Evony said. Dyson looked hard at Evony.

"Dyson, Dyson. For a man who puts on the strong, manly, knight in shining armor facade you are very weak in the knees in your pursuit of it." Evony said.

"What the does that mean?"

"If you want Tamsin you have to take her." Evony said.

"What do you mean take her? I have her." Dyson said a bit taken aback.

"You have been seeing eachother for how long?" Evony asked.

"Almost nine years."

"And where is she living?"

Dyson looked at her and swallowed hard. Evony smiled knowing she had hit her target.

"There is a reason for that." Evony said.

"I have tried to talk to her, but there have been other factors involved." Dyson said as he took a sip of his drink.

"What? Your friends, and their dramas of the week?" Evony asked. Dyson just looked at her.

"If you want a relationship with someone you are going to have to make them the priority. Have you not paid attention at all to Bo and Lauren's relationship over the last ten years? Look at them. They have a home together, great careers, and four beautiful children, and yes, I said beautiful. You know why they have it? Because they made it their focus to have it. If you want Tamsin, you need to quit asking her, and tell her." Evony said

"I plan to. Tonight." Dyson replied.

"Well, like I said if you do finally get around to it, don't ask her, tell her. Because there are others who are more confident and who already smell blood," Evony said as she glanced at Dakari, "and have no issues swooping in. Nine years be damned." She finished. Dyson looked at his drink again.

"Ryan!" Evony yelled out while she kept her eyes on Dyson.

"Yeah!" Ryan replied.

"I am ready to jet. Let us say our goodbyes." Evony answered, and then she turned and left Dyson standing there alone pondering his drink. Tamsin came back out a few minutes later and joined him.

"Everything okay?" Tamsin asked.

"Yeah. Everything okay with Clio?" Dyson asked.

"Yep. She was just providing me with a status update." Tamsin answered.

"Hey, can we find a place to talk? Out of sight, out of mind?" Dyson asked.

"Sure! Let's take a walk down the road." Tamsin locked arms with Dyson as they headed out and down the road for a walk.

"So, what's going on?" Tamsin asked.

"I should ask you. What was that about with Dakari back there? Do I need to be concerned?" Dyson asked.

"Dude just got here Dyson." Tamsin replied.

"My point exactly." Dyson said.

"I think I am just flattered that's all. First time in a long, long time that kind of feeling came out in me."

"I don't make you feel special?" Dyson asked.

"Let's not make it that fundamental." Tamsin replied.

"Then how do I make you feel?" Dyson asked. Tamsin stopped him reached up and kissed him deeply. Dyson threw his beer glass and wrapped his arms around tightly as they kissed for a long time.

When they broke their kiss, Dyson said, "Move in with me. I love you. I want you. I need you. By my side. With me."

"Dyson…" Tamsin started.

"No more excuses. No more equivocations. Nine years is enough. Either you love me, and want us, or it ends here, now. Yes or no." Dyson declared.

"Dyson, this is a scary step for me. Truly. Not since…" Tamsin replied

"I know. But this is not exactly an easy step for me, but I know I cannot think of my existence without you in it. Every decision I make I always wonder what you may think of it. I feel absolutely alone without you near me. I love you, Tams, and I want us to take that next scary step together." Dyson interrupted.

"But what about Kenzi? I feel weird leaving her alone." Tamsin admitted.

"I know that was the reason why you chose not to move in with me in the beginning, but is that still the reason?" Dyson asked.

"She was not the reason, but perhaps the excuse at times. We were not at that stage yet. There was so much in motion at that time. But then your responsibilities started to take up your focus, and then mine were taking up mine, life became hectic. But, I know those reasons can no longer continue to be the reasons." Tamsin said.

"Then what is your answer?" Dyson asked with finality.

"Yes." Tamsin answered.

"About damn time." Dyson said as they embraced in a deep kiss.