Grand Ducal Theodosia de Morvois, leader of the Vrabereaux Delegation under the auspice of the LauDessar Dynasty sat at the head of a very large and long conference table full of her Ensies, Governors within her delegation reviewing proposal packages in preparation for the Convocation of the Presidium. The Ensi's provided leadership over the provinces, close to one billion each within her delegational city. Accompanying the Ensies were their respective Peshwas and Muhtars, the ministers within their provinces. The Convocation, a decennial event conceived by The Regnant herself entailed five months of meetings to a craft a very detailed, complex matrix of agreed-upon agreements that guided the political affairs of the Presidium under one focused agenda for the next ten years. Theodosia had to admit the Convocation was brilliant idea. Solved a lot of the routine problems associated with maintaining joint governmental relations with other delegations. It was of the few times no one envied Regent Saladin's position as Regent for the Regency was responsible for coordinating both the pomp and the details of the Convocation.
This year's Convocation would be unique for it would be capped by The Princess Royal's Installation Ceremony, and then the "Great Sleep" of The Regnant expected to occur afterwards. One of the detriments of being an Atlas Bear: the need to hibernate. Usually the Great Sleeps lasted a month, and in rare cases even longer if The Regnant delayed her hibernations which she did every great now and then. The one time The Regnant went into a deeper sleep than usual - for six months – it put the Presidium in a near panic, fearing she would not wake. But when she did the Presidium decided to factor the Great Sleep into the political agenda.
That made Theodosia reminisce. Antony had periodically taken her on harvesting trips to the Prescotti Homelands when they were still together, had once shown her the natural cavern The Regnant used to use to hibernate in. In the early days of her reign, The Regnant would return to the Prescotti Homelands for her hibernations, and would, every now and then hibernate at the Arasgain Ancestral home in a Cavern constructed by The Brynai Society of Engineers. Antony would joke it was the only time his Mummy looked forward to visiting The Queen Consort's family home – she could hibernate. Nowadays, the Regnant conducted her sleeps on the grounds of their private Chateau.
The Prescotti's were wealthy farmers and landowners, and they all genuinely loved tending land. They would rise before dawn, venture out into the fields, and would not return until evening. Theodosia hated the harvesting trips and, where possible, would make excuses to avoid them. Theodosia never understood how The Queen Consort, who came from a storied aristocratic family put up with it all, but she seemed to be right at home. When The Regnant first ascended the throne she would return to her Homelands during their harvest season which shocked the Realm, who believed that was something the Sovereign ought not to do. The Sovereign understood the rumblings and struck a middle ground with the Realm: she would attend the harvest as needed, and then created a farm of her own on the grounds of their private Chateau.
Theodosia, however, could not argue with majesty of The Prescotti homelands; they were expansive, breathtaking and went on for miles. Even though there were individual homes on the lands the main house was shared by all of the Prescotti siblings and their families. The main house was so open as if to let nature in and let it flow throughout. In fact, Theodosia noticed that walls were only employed where absolutely necessary. Antony would tell stories of the delicate balance that would play out when his grandfather, Nassor Prescotti was still alive. While his Mummy may have ruled the Presidium Nassor ruled the Prescotti Homelands. He would always pay his daughter the appropriate courtesies whenever she visited, but the Prescotti homelands was his domain. Same held true with his other grandfather, Padriag Arasgain whenever the family visited The Queen Consort's Ancestral Home. He would pay the appropriate respects to his daughter The Queen Consort as Sovereign, but the Arasgain Ancestral lands were his domain.
Theodosia recalled the one time she witnessed The Regnant enter her Great Sleep. It was when Antony had asked Theodosia to stay with The Queen Consort and the Ruling Family at the Chateau for the duration of The Regnant's hibernation. The Ruling Family were present along with Regent Saladin, the Seer, the Adherents of the Monadori Sanctuary, a contingent of the Regnant Guard, and a contingent of the Knights of the Guard. What Theodosia found quite charming was how the Ruling and extended families stayed with The Queen Consort whenever she stayed at the Chateau during the Regnant's sleep, and along with Adherents of the Monadori Sanctuary took turns standing watch. It was considered a point of honor.
Before The Regnant had entered the enormous cavern she kissed her wife and children, then shifted into her Fae form and moved towards the cavern as her family walked behind her. Theodosia couldn't help but bask in the wonder of watching a bear the size of a building shift before her eyes was quite the wonder. But when she witnessed Antony shift for the very first time she felt just as in awe. Once The Regnant had entered the cavern, the large doors shut behind her, the Seer offered a blessing, and then both contingents of the Knights of the Guard and The Regnant Guard assumed their places of watch.
It was during this particular sleep that The Queen Consort decided to reign over Presidium affairs from the Chateau. It was not uncommon for her to do so, but she only exercised such a choice from the Chateau unless she felt it necessary to be near The Regnant while she hibernated, and whenever she had done so it always concerned the Presidium. But The Queen Consort with her regal, effervescent charm would always reassure the Presidium that her proximity was merely an issue of logistics. But all Faedom understood: the Ruling Couple's marriage was considered a love affair, and to be apart from the woman she loved during a very vulnerable time surely weighed on her, no matter that the entire Presidium was there to see to The Regnant's every security, not the least of which The Queen Consort who, unless one was not in their right mind would ever take on.
Theodosia smiled at the recollection of the firestorm of gossip that surrounded the invitation to stay with The Queen Consort had caused within socio-political circles. The symbolism alone was a matter of comment. With an heir to the Throne yet to be recognized by Destiny, if anything had happened to The Regnant Antony would become the next Regnant. Theodosia had met both sides of Antony's extended family, joined them at important family functions, and when she was invited to witness The Regnant enter her Great Sleep, and later stay with The Queen Consort these last steps were seen as the final steps in the vetting process. When it became known relatives from both sides of Antony's extended family were staying with The Queen Consort as well the gossip reached a fever pitch; all the observatory courtship boxes had been checked. Now it was just only a matter of when an engagement was announced.
Theodosia smiled in the mirror as she prepared for her first evening at the Chateau and her first solo event with the Ruling and the extended family. Antony was called away earlier that day on a matter before the Tetrarch, a matter that involved the Regency, which meant Elena and Rimma were also called away. Because the matter also involved the Political Pillar that caused Ariella and Julian to be called away. Dakari, however, a previously scheduled visit planned for his patronage city, Muthoni and departed after The Regnant was settled. Maxima and Emilia also departed on a previously scheduled Missions visit to city of Finchale, so only Jock and Atia remained at the Chateau. Theodosia sighed. Of all the Prescotti siblings, Jock and Atia were the most keen observers. It was like every flinch one had ever made was being watched by them.
Theodosia had entered the drawing room and saw everyone gathered while they awaited dinner. She was the last to arrive, a timing that was not purposeful on her part; everyone else simply arrived early. She approached The Queen Consort and curtsied before her who acknowledged her curtsey with a slight bow of her head.
"Theodosia! Welcome! I take it your chambers are satisfactory?" The Queen Consort asked.
"Yes, Your Majesty. Beyond satisfactory." Theodosia replied.
"Glad to hear!" The Queen Consort replied.
"Welcome, Theodosia!" Jock said as he approached with his sister Atia.
"Thank you, Your Serene Highness." Theodosia replied.
"So I see Antony finally got up the nerve to ask you to a family dinner at the Chateau." Grand Ducal Serene Highness Nehanda Prescotti, The Regnant's younger sister said as she came up and greeted Theodosia.
"You mean to 'THE' family dinner." Grand Ducal Serene Highness Ina Arasgain Hasford, the younger sister of The Queen Consort added as she came up behind Nehanda. Theodosia smiled.
"The next thing we can expect now is an engagement announcement." Nehanda kept up.
"Nehanda!" Helen gently admonished her sister-in law.
"Plus, it would be the first marriage of the Royal children, and the eldest one at that. If our parents were here they would be pushing him to do the same." Ina added.
"Ina!" Helen gently admonished her younger sister. "Theodosia, you shall have to forgive my sisters for speaking as if you were not here." Theodosia smiled.
"It's what expected, Helen. If Lillian were here she would make him propose before Ari woke from her sleep." A beautiful redhead woman with long, straight hair said as she joined in.
"Theodosia, I take it you recall my Aunt, Grand Ducal Serene Highness Adara Arasgain Hambridge." Helen introduced.
"Yes, I do Your Majesty. Lovely to see you again, Your Serene Highness." Theodosia greeted as the Seneschal offered her a drink. She took it and they departed.
"And of course, Chione." The Queen Consort said as she introduced Grand Ducal Serene Highness Chione Prescotti Castets, The Regnant's other younger sister.
"Lovely to see you again Your Serene Highness." Theodosia greeted.
"You as well." Chione replied.
"Shall we all sit while we await dinner?" Helen gestured to the nearby seating area. Everyone took a seat while Jock stood behind his sister and Aunt Nehanda who sat next to one another on a couch nearest to the window balconies.
"I understand the poking," Theodosia said as she sat in an empty chair between Helen and Chione. "It is not as if Antony and I have not spoken of it, and I was extremely touched when Antony asked me to stay with Her Majesty while The Regnant is in hibernation."
"What? My nephew spoke of marriage?" Chione said somewhat surprised.
"He has spoken about our future, and how to balance our responsibilities, roles, and our different viewpoints, yes." Theodosia replied.
"Ever the tactician that Antony." Ina commented.
"Already having disagreements over viewpoints?" Nehanda asked.
"What couple doesn't?" Ina commented. Everyone chuckled.
"Largely political." Theodosia replied.
"Oh?" Chione queried.
"Antony and I actually share similar views on the same side of the spectrum, mine just happen to be more…traditional than Antony's." Theodosia replied.
"I find that hard to believe. Antony is about as traditional as it comes." Ina commented.
"Yes, but he is also accepting of modern perspectives if they make practical sense." Theodosia replied.
"And you are not?" Adara asked.
"Just because a modern perspective makes practical sense doesn't mean it should be accepted in lieu of traditional practice if the traditional practice is in keeping with the character of society." Theodosia replied.
"Now this I must hear about!" Ina said. Theodosia smiled.
"Because of our respective roles, Antony and I speak about these matters quite often. But I don't wish to bore you with our points of view." Theodosia replied.
"You have made us curious. Please, continue." Adara replied.
"Our discussions usually surround philosophical differences in roots of power." Theodosia said.
"Please continue." Adara replied.
"I believe independent power should be returned to the Dynasties." Theodosia said.
"Like the days before the War of the Five Ranas?" Chione queried.
"With respect, Your Serene Highness, yes." Theodosia replied.
"Discretionary powers left to the Dynasties is what caused the War of the Five Ranas in the first place." Nehanda said.
"I disagree, Your Serene Highness. It was the abuse of that power that led to the war. Properly exercised power and the Dynasties could return to their original glory." Theodosia said.
"Glory? Interesting term." Jock commented.
"Apologies. I mean their original height." Theodosia replied.
"Terminology is one thing, philosophy is another. The philosophy you espouse runs counter to the policies of the Sovereign." Atia said.
"It may run against the fundamentals, but not the intent." Theodosia replied.
"Her Majesty exercises absolute rule." Chione said.
"Yes, through governmental bodies." Theodosia replied.
"A multi-layered arrangement of rule intended to give voice to the constituencies of the Realm." Nehanda said.
"That is just it. There are some who would like to see less layered interference and more direct rule through the Dynasties." Theodosia replied.
"Ones such as yourself?" Ina asked.
"As Grand Ducal of the Vrabereaux Delegation under the LauDessar Dynasty I would be remiss if I did not advocate on behalf of the interests of my constituencies." Theodosia replied.
"Don't you think the Realm has prospered under the current paradigm?" Atia asked.
"I believe prosperity is an evasive measurement deflecting from the fundamental concerns about cross-functional powers. Who says that the same could not be achieved with power back to the Dynasties?" Theodosia replied.
"Nothing. Except for the reckless exercise of it." Jock replied
"That would be a matter of the individual, not the entity." Theodosia replied.
"Agreed. That is why the exercise of power is leveled across functions, as you say, to guard against the tantalization of it by the Dynasties, and accorded to bodies that help them to rule so as to ensure there isn't another War of the Five Ranas." Jock replied. Theodosia felt not only the weight of Jock's eyes upon her but the rest of the group as well, and decided to deflate the intensity of the conversation.
"Far be it from me to cross philosophical swords with one who is exceptionally learned in both the law and in philosophy." Theodosia tactfully deferred. Jock bowed his head slightly in response. Just then the Seneschal entered the room and looked to The Queen Consort.
"And on that note shall we move into dinner?" Helen prompted.
Later that evening, Antony had returned to the Chateau and visited Theodosia in her private chambers. He found her sipping a drink while laying out on a satee on the balcony observing the night sky.
"Theo?" Antony called out.
"Antony." Theodosia replied as she rose from the satee and went to him, and they kissed.
"You know, it tickles me how their Majesties are very modern in some things and very old-fashioned in others. Having us staying in separate chambers, for example. Doesn't stop us from sleeping together." Theodosia said after they broke their kiss. Antony smiled.
"It's the form." Antony replied.
"My point exactly." Theodosia said.
"How was dinner?" Antony asked.
"As I expected. Teased and inquired." Theodosia replied.
"Teased I understand. Inquired over what?" Antony asked.
"There was a political discussion."
"Oh? How did that come about?"
"As a course of conversation." Theodosia replied.
"How did that go?" Antony asked.
"Your brother Jock intended on a deeper discussion. I thought it best to defer."
"Sounds like drawing room politics." Antony said.
"Very much so." Theodosia replied. "How did the Tetrarch meeting go?"
"Not well. It looks like we may need to gather a larger slice of government to include the Grand Ducals and the Prime Representatives of Parliament."
"When is that to occur?"
"We wanted to wait until Mummy came out from hibernation, but the situation needs to be addressed now. I just came from briefing Mother. She will need to open a Joint Conference of the Parliamentary Council." Antony replied.
"Sounds like we need to return to the Presidium." Theodosia said.
"We still have another few days here and then we will need to return." Antony replied as he kissed her again.
"I take you are hungry?" Theodosia asked.
"Oh yes." Antony said with lust in his voice as the orb of his eyes turned blue.
"That is what I thought." Theodosia said as they embraced in a deep kiss.
The next afternoon Antony and Theodosia met Adara for a walk out on the farm fields of the Chateau at her invitation. Theodosia walked on Antony's left as they held hands while his great Aunt walked on his right with her arm wrapped around his right arm.
"It never ceases to amaze me Ari's love of farming, and even more so how Helen has taken to it all." Adara said.
"We all have." Antony replied then he looked further into the fields and pointed to rows of various blooming vegetables, their branches tied up along fences. "See over there?"
"Yes?"
"That entire area is Elena's. Elena has an amazing sense of the soil. Her touch reminds us of our Grandmother Eshe." Antony explained.
"Impressive. I am surprised any of you have time to keep up with the fields with all of your responsibilities." Adara replied.
"We consider therapeutic."
"I understand your farming skills rival your Mummy's?" Adara asked.
"I love it just as much as she does."
"And here I thought Dakari was in equal measure to that of your Mummy." Theodosia teased.
"He certainly thinks so." Antony replied.
"Brotherly competition for sure." Adara said. "Is Julian still the worst at farming?"
"To our parent's utter frustration." Antony replied. Adara and Theodosia chuckled.
"Theodosia, do you have a farm patch out here?" Adara asked.
"Oh no, Your Serene Highness. I don't have the touch. Or the patience." Theodosia replied.
"So Antony, I am sure Theodosia told you that we teased her about you two." Adara queried.
"Yes."
"Well, the family is certainly very glad to see that one of you is finally settling down. The marital status of the Ruling children is the talk of the family. And the Presidium." Adara said.
"Oh dear." Theodosia noted.
"Should be no surprise. The ten of you all hail from an exceptional example of what marriage and family should be like, and yet none of you are married." Adara noted. Antony only smiled in response. Adara pressed forward.
"In any case, we all very glad that you and Theodosia are serious." Adara said. Antony and Theodosia smiled.
"In efforts to be transparent in asking you both on this walk I'm curious as to how you two handle the differences between you?" Adara asked.
"What differences do you speak of?" Antony asked.
"The philosophical, the political. There seems to be very apparent differences in some areas." Adara queried.
"We can be at odds over some political views, and we do discuss them when they rear their ugly heads, but we traverse them." Antony replied.
"From what gathered from last nights' dinner conversation views that go beyond dynastic temperament and political posturing." Adara said.
"What are you trying to say Aunt Adara?" Antony asked as he stopped which caused Adara and Theodosia to stop as well. Adara was about to answer when they saw Ina and Nehanda come into view as they waved and called out as they approached. They both wore wide hats and carried baskets of flowers, and vegetables they clearly picked from the fields. Theodosia leaned over to Antony.
"I will go and greet them." As she moved off she did so slowly to ensure Ina and Nehanda caught up with her first so she could still overhear Adara and Antony.
"I ask again Aunt Adara, what are you trying to say?" Antony asked
"Antony, you are a man of strength, honor, loyalty…and certainness. Surely, this has all crossed your mind." Adara posed. Antony said nothing. By this time Ina and Nehanda caught up with them all.
"Come join us! We are about to go and enjoy afternoon lunch! Helen and Chione are waiting for us!" Nehanda called out as she took Theodosia by the arm.
"Well, I see that you are clearly uncomfortable speaking about this further so let's join the rest of the group, shall we?" Adara said as she took Antony by the arm and followed the rest of the group up to the picnic area.
"Order! Order!" shouted Taoiseach Sandalli at the Joint Conference of the Parliamentary Council that included The Tetrarch, the Grand Ducals, Parliamentary Committee Heads, the Four Pillars to include The Agency, and the Prime Representatives, a select group of the Parliamentary members. All told there were about 10,000 participants present. The Queen Consort presided over the Opening Session and outlined the agenda and parameters of the Joint Conference. The agenda surrounded a demand from within certain quarters of government who desired increased independent powers from the Presidium, and the discussion had taken an ugly turn, hence the Joint Conference. Once Opening Session had concluded The Queen Consort left the debates to the attendees and formulate a solution. It was not appropriate for the Sovereign to preside over the daily debate sessions. Regent Saladin, Deputy Regent Elena Prescotti, and Third Regent Rimma Prescotti would represent the Sovereign in that regard. Of course, the Sovereign was active in the background discussions. The politics of sovereignty.
"Prime Representative Duranord, you have the floor!" Taoiseach Sandalli said.
"Thank you, Taioseach Sandalli! Members of this Joint Conference, you all know that the need for divested authority from the Parliament is a critical piece in maintaining effective, direct control within our regions without having our authority checked and balanced against the Parliament. It's like we are constantly asking for permission to act!" Prime Representative Verena Duranord said.
"Taioseach Sandalli, if I may be recognized?"
"Prime Representative Sellecchia, you have the floor!" Taoiseach Sandalli replied.
"Thank you, Taoiseach Sandalli. Prime Representative Duranord, there is merit in your frustration, but there is the history of war as a matter of fact. The Presidium has benefited from the current construction of rule intended to eliminate the factors that brought us the War of the Five Ranas in the first place!" Prime Representative Lisandro Sellecchia countered.
"Prime Representative Sellecchia. The environmental factors that instigated the War of the Five Ranas has since been regulated, altering behaviors to where new perspectives have been defined." Prime Representative Duranord replied.
"Really, Prime Representative Duranord? Is that your argument? Old dogs have been taught new tricks?" Primus Felix Andathis, Primus for the Pillar of Law replied.
"Granted, Primus Andathis, the argument is simplistic yet applicable." Prime Representative Duranord said.
"No matter the politics divested powers certainly benefits the Business Pillar allowing for greater flexibility in managing the markets within our economies of scale." Primus Jann Cocher said.
"To the detriment of centralized collaboration such as our aid missions to various regions within the Presidium." Primus Satoru Gracer, Primus for the Pillar of Politics countered.
"Something that can still be managed at the Ensi level, at minimum, for sure." Primus Cocher replied.
"You mean to dilute the power of the Tetrach?" Rana Edmund Atherstone of the Tulach Dynasty asked.
"Not dilute it so much as….alleviate the Tetrach from such details. The Tetrarch should maintain its focus on the broader landscape of governance on shared interests." Primus Cocher replied.
"Delicately stated, Primus." Grand Ducal Jacobi Tarin of the Tulach Dynasty replied.
"Why thank you Grand Ducal Tarin." Primus Cocher replied.
"But it is an intricate balance you argue. It effectively would make the oversight governance structures, such as the Tetrarch perfunctory. Hallow and without power. And this coming from a Primus." Grand Ducal Tarin replied.
"A Primus that is only raising the concerns and interests within the business community who feel the same. I would be remiss in my responsibility as Primus of the Business Pillar if I failed to raise these concerns. I am sure Grand Ducal Tarin, you would agree." Primus Cocher said.
"I am sure." Grand Ducal Tarin replied somewhat sinisterly.
"Taoiseach Sandalli, if I may be recognized?"
"Prime Representative Amaechi, you have the floor!" Taoiseach Sandalli replied.
"If this is truly an honest conversation on the divestiture of power back to the Dynasties then I must admit it is not without support. Real, substantive support." Prime Representative Kariane Amaechi said to mutters of "Here! Here!" amongst the attendees.
"How so?" Third Regent Rimma Prescotti asked who occupied a seat to the left of Regent Saladin.
"I know the Peshwas and the Muhtars within my range have been calling for years to operate more independently in response to local concerns." Prime Representative Amaechi replied.
"Are their concerns not being met under our current construction?" Third Regent Prescotti asked.
"They would like to have greater autonomy in meeting those concerns." Prime Representative Amaechi replied.
Rana Cleve Stuart of the Quedarin Dynasty raised a finger up into the air signaling his desire to speak. Taoiseach Sandalli offered a slight bow of her head in acknowledgement.
"My fellow Ranas, Taoiseach Sandalli, and distinguished guests of this Joint Conference, need I remind you of the devastation of the War of Five Ranas that led to the near destruction of this Realm? A great many of us in this room fought in that war with…and against…Regnant Einiah. We saw firsthand the countless number of Fae lives that were lost, and in course three Dynasties that were destroyed in the process. The reconstitution of government into its present format was intended to eliminate the feralness of the Dynasties that acted out of self-interest and through joint cross-collaboration designed and intended to avoid the conditions that brought on the War of the Five Ranas in the first place. We have achieved that and for hundreds of years have enjoyed a prosperity of governance never before seen in the history of the Realm." Rana Stuart said to cheers of approval.
"While I cannot understand as a Rana why some quarters of the Presidium would desire a return to practices that gave way to the worst war this Realm has ever witnessed in the hopes that temptation for power can be managed I cannot ignore the calls for divested powers either." Rana Stuart finished.
"Your Excellency, are you sanctioning divestment?" Primus Mira Levasseur of the Intelligence Pillar asked.
"No. But I also do not fear exploring the concerns within some quarters of the Realm who are calling for divestment." Rana Stuart replied.
"Deftly put, Your Excellency." Rana Duvall Chavalier of the LauDessar Dynasty commented.
"I think we should become less concerned about deftness and strike openly at the root of the matter." Prime Representative Duranord said.
"And what is that?" Grand Ducal Yanis Gadon of the LauDessar Dynasty asked.
"That the concerns are foundational." Prime Representative Duranord replied.
"Meaning?" Deputy Regent Elena Prescotti asked from her seat on the right of Regent Saladin.
Prime Representative Duranord took a deep breath but was pre-empted in her response.
"There are advocates who seek to restructure the foundation of government to restore the independence of power back into the hands of the Dynasties." Grand Ducal Theodosia de Morvois answered instead, and in response representatives leaped out of their seats, shouting at one another in mixed disagreement which caused Taoiseach to leap up out of her chair.
"Order! Order!" shouted Taoiseach Sandalli to no avail as representatives remained standing shouting at one another. Antony looked at Theodosia who did not meet his eyes and instead focused forward.
"Order! Order!" Taoiseach Sandalli shouted again to no avail to stop the cacophony of shouting.
Finally, Regent Saladin slowly stood up, an action that caused those Prime Representatives closest to him to stop shouting and settle down and quickly became a cascade effect throughout the room. Once the room was silent he surveyed the room then nodded his head back at Taoiseach Sandalli, and resumed his seat.
"Prime Representatives! Please preserve order and resume your seats!" This time they paid attention.
"Care to elaborate on your statement, Grand Ducal de Morvois?" Rana Chavalier asked. Grand Ducal de Morvois stood up.
"My apologies Your Excellency, for speaking a point of view not previously consulted with yourself." Grand Ducal de Morvois replied.
Rana Chavalier nodded which signaled Grand Ducal de Morvois to continue.
"There is a belief that the intent of post-war constraints imposed on the Dynasties have been met, and now that hundreds of years have passed there is no reason why independent power cannot be returned to the Dynasties." Grand Ducal de Morvois said.
"Grand Ducal de Morvois, your position runs completely counter to the system established by the Sovereign." Rana Atherstone replied. "A position I hope is not shared by your Dynasty," as he turned to look at Rana Chavalier who only responded with an equally forthright look.
"As I said, there hasn't been any formal consultation." Grand Ducal de Morvois replied.
"Then what is this?" Rana Atherstone replied.
"This conference is the first step in the discussion. Divestment is the goal." Grand Ducal de Morvois replied.
"You do realize what you are saying? You are seeking a return to pre-war conditions." Rana Atherstone.
"I am seeking a return to Dynastic power to operate as they were historically intended to operate. And as you can see I am not alone." Grand Ducal de Morvois replied. That caused some looks towards Rana Prescotti who only stared at Grand Ducal de Morvois which gave Regent Saladin his opening.
"Taoiseach Sandalli, I would suggest we adjourn." Regent Saladin said.
"This Joint Conference of the Parliamentary Council is hereby adjourned." Taoiseach Sandalli announced.
Regent Saladin stood up and exited the room followed by Grand Primus Antilio Cheles, Primus Mira Levasseur of the Intelligence Pillar, Deputy Regent Elena Prescotti and Third Regent Rimma Prescotti. They stopped out in the hallway.
"This is not good Your Excellency. I knew there were concerns about too much centralization, but not enough to call for a restructure of government." Grand Primus Cheles said.
"Your thoughts?" Regent Saladin asked Primus Levasseur.
"I agree. All of our Intelligence understood it to be an issue of disgruntlement, not a full on call for divestment." Primus Levasseur replied.
"Clearly, discussions have taken place amongst the Presidium members if Grand Ducal Morvois is involved." Deputy Regent Elena Prescotti said.
"Agreed. Get on it." Regent Saladin directed to Primus Levasseur.
"Yes, Your Excellency." Primus Levasseur replied and left. Grand Primus watched her leave then turned to Regent Saladin.
"My apologies, Your Excellency for not anticipating this turn of events. Our Intelligence Pillar should have been much more anticipatory. I will have Primus Levasseur replaced at once." Grand Primus Cheles said.
"That will not be necessary. These discussions may have been couched but they've also been in the wide open and…" Regent Saladin looked back at the meeting room and to the empty chair that Antony occupied moments earlier, "held a bit more closer to home than even we realized."
"You mean Antony." Rimma commented.
"Unfortunately, Your Serene Highness." Regent Saladin replied. "Come. Her Majesty will need to be briefed."
"And Antony?" Elena asked.
"I suspect he will be having a conversation of his own." Regent Saladin replied as they all turned and headed for The Queen Consort's Offices.
Theodosia and her staff had occupied one of the Parliamentary offices when Antony stormed into the room.
"Theo!" Antony shouted! Everyone stood and either bowed or curtsied but his attention was on Theo.
"Antony." Theodosia replied.
"You must explain yourself!" Antony replied. Theodosia dismissed her staff and when they were gone she turned to Antony.
"I think my comments were wholly self-explanatory."
"You know what I mean! Your position is a direct contravention to the policies of Her Majesty!" Antony replied.
"I speak the truth of the reality!" Theodosia replied.
"You speak against the Sovereign!"
"I speak only against the policies of the Realm!" Theodosia replied.
"Splitting hairs, Theo!" Antony thundered then took a deep breath and rubbed his forehead then looked back at Theodosia.
"Is this all what you truly believe?" Antony asked.
"My views are not news to you, Antony."
"But the veracity of them is news!"
"I must advocate for what I believe is best not only for my delegation but for the Realm for which it serves! Surely, Antony you must see and agree the need for change!"
"Your position is disloyal, if not, treasonous against the Sovereign, Theo!"
"I cannot be constrained in my political philosophies simply because we are together!"
"I expect nothing less than constraint! Theo! I am the Rana of the Prescotti Dynasty, the Pashan of the Combined Armies, I am the first-born child of the Sovereigns!" Antony shouted then took a deep breath and continued softly, "And their first child to be married." The last statement deflated the anger in them both.
"This is not a waxing philosophical discussion between dinners, Juggerbol matches, or between love-making, Theo. You have taken a public stand against the Sovereign! A public position I do not, cannot, and will not support!" Antony said then took a deep breath and exhaled.
"Antony…"
"I need some time, Theo to think." Antony said as he rubbed his forehead and left the room.
Four weeks later The Regnant awoke from her hibernation. She had been asleep for nearly six weeks.
The Ruling Family and representatives of government all gathered and stood approximately 200 yards away in the direct line of sight of the Cavern door. They could hear The Queen roaring and ramming against the doors to be let out. The noise of a trapped 100-foot bear ramming against the door unsettled Theodosia. No one dared open the doors until the Ruling Family had arrived first.
The Knights of the Guard stood perched at the doors at the ready. Once positioned, The Queen Consort stepped slightly forward of the rest of the Ruling Family, raised her right index finger which signaled the Knights to open the doors. The Knights pulled open the doors and suddenly there was a momentary quiet then a few moments later The Regnant charged out, roaring loudly. The sight of a bear the size of a building charging towards them caused Theodosia to take a few steps back. The Ruling Family, however, did not budge. The Queen Consort stood there regally, with her hands together and smiled as The Regnant charged straight for her, roaring all the while. Theodosia was sure The Queen Consort would need her powers to halt the charge of The Regnant. Instead, as The Regnant charged The Queen Consort lifted her head higher and uttered only two words.
"My love."
The utterance was soft but it boomed loud enough like a speaker for The Regnant to hear her. Another aspect of her Fae powers. The Regnant slowed her charge and came to a halt about 25 feet in front of The Ruling Family.
"My love." The Queen Consort said again which caused The Regnant to snort and shake her head and pace a bit. Theodosia had to admit seeing a giant bear up close and personal was quite the sight.
"Mummy," said Atia which made The Regnant swing to look at her daughter and snort again but then stopped pacing.
"Ari," said Chione, which made The Regnant swing to look at her.
"Your Majesty," said Adara which made The Regnant swing to look at her. The Queen Consort's Aunt then curtsied. The Regnant took a couple of steps back, stood on her hind legs, and roared which caused everyone to cover their ears. The Regnant dropped on her paws again and looked at The Queen Consort who then nodded to their ten children who proceeded to shift into their Fae forms. In all the time she and Antony had been together she had never seen all of the Royal children shifted into their Fae forms at the same time. As the rest of his siblings shifted Antony turned to Theodosia, and kissed her.
"Time for the hunt." Antony said then shifted into his Fae form standing in equal height as that of his Mummy. Theodosia always found Antony's shift into his Fae form breath-taking. The Regnant grunted as Antony led his Mummy and siblings into the woods.
Two days later, The Regnant and her children returned to the Chateau where the government awaited. The Seer greeted The Regnant with a blessing, the political court then conducted update briefings, and when that was over The Regnant turned, looked at her Queen Consort, took her by the hand, and they disappeared for the rest of day for a feed of a different kind. Antony turned to Theodosia.
"We need to talk."
"It is my understanding that you and Theodosia are no longer together?" Maxima asked her brother a few weeks later while they were out for a walk.
"That is correct."
"What happened?" Maxima asked. Antony said nothing.
"Antony?" Maxima asked again.
"We were moving apart."
"Well, that's generalistic. Anything more specific?"
"Nothing that I would like to discuss." Antony replied gently yet firmly.
"So when you are you going to tell Mummy and Mother you broke it off with Theodosia? The real reasons." Maxima asked her eldest brother.
"My sweet little bird, how do you know what I just said is not true?" Antony asked.
"It is not true." Maxima replied.
"And how do you know that?" Antony asked.
"Sisters talk." Maxima replied. Antony grunted.
"We know what Theodosia meant to you. But we also know you parted ways over her political differences with Mummy's policies. You are going to have to speak with Mummy and Mother. Explain it to them before they hear the wrong way from the wrong elements seeking to do harm to this family." Maxima replied.
"How does one tell their parents they fell for someone that seeks to weaken their sovereignty?" Antony asked.
"By telling them you recognized it for what it was, and ended it." Maxima replied.
"But what does that say about me? And in their eyes? How did I not see it sooner?" Antony asked.
"You are in love." Maxima replied.
"Were." Antony quickly replied.
"My sweet brother, you may have broken it off with Theodosia, but that still does not stop what you feel for her. Getting over her will take time. If you ever do." Maxima replied.
"How am I hearing such wise words from someone so young?" Antony asked.
"You and our parents are the only ones that still view me as a baby in the crib." Maxima replied.
"Is that so wrong?" Antony queried.
"Yes…and yes." Maxima replied as she hugged her brother.
"Mummy, Mother, may I speak with you?" Antony said when he entered his parent's private apartments and bowed. His siblings, Atia and Dakari was already there consulting with them on the divestment issue they were working on within the Intelligence Pillar.
"Antony! What a lovely surprise!" Helen said when she acknowledged his bow and he came over and greeted her with a kiss on the cheek then his Mummy then his siblings.
"Any more of our children coming to visit tonight? Something going on that we are not aware of?" Ari asked.
"Just with me Mummy." Antony replied.
"That is our cue to leave." Dakari said as he rose from his seat as he knew why he was there.
"You both don't need to leave." Antony said.
"Oh yes, we do." Atia replied as she kissed her parents good night and then kissed Antony on the cheek and whispered, "Everything will be fine." She looked at him briefly and then left with Dakari. Antony then turned to his parents.
"Sit down Antony." Helen said. Antony did as he was told.
"So what is it Antony?" Ari asked.
"Theodosia." Ari asked.
"Yes?" Ari queried.
"I ended our relationship." Antony replied.
"Oh." Ari replied as she glanced at Helen. "Why?"
"Her…political views reached a point of extremity where they ran in direct contravention to your authority as Sovereign. To the point they became unsupportable for me." Antony answered.
"I know they were distinct but that distinct?" Ari asked.
"Yes." Antony replied.
"I know what Theodosia means to you." Helen said.
"Meant." Antony replied.
"Keep telling yourself that." Ari said. Antony said nothing.
"I am not afraid of political opposition, Antony. Even under my own roof. Your grandfather, Padraig, didn't exactly approve of some of the initial directions I took. If it weren't for your grandmother, Lilas, starting The Agency I doubt my reign would have even twinkled in his eyes." Ari said.
"Ari, you know that wasn't true." Helen chided.
"I'm surprised he even let me in the house." Ari said with a glint of humor. Helen shook her head. Antony allowed himself a small smile.
"Antony, we know that Theodosia's political views are divergent from mine. She hails from the LauDessar Dynasty, a dynasty that has always been a challenging one." Ari said.
"It wasn't mere a difference of opinion. Her beliefs were fundamental, and were growing increasingly…treasonous…in their flavor." Antony replied.
"Treasonous?" Ari repeated.
"Yes." Antony replied.
"That is a very serious charge, Antony. Do you have any proof?" Ari asked.
"Only my conscience." Antony replied.
"Do you suspect her of acting on her…beliefs?" Ari asked.
"I don't know!" Antony replied, frustrated as he stood up and paced the room. Helen and Ari looked at one another then back at Antony.
"How did she take the news of your break-up?" Helen asked.
"Not very well." Antony replied. "I don't think she believes I am serious."
"How do you feel?" Ari asked.
"How do I feel?" Antony repeated.
"Yes." Ari replied.
"Not sure." Antony replied.
"Yes, you do." Ari said.
"I feel…stupid." Antony replied.
"Why would you think that?" Helen asked incredulous.
"Because I should have seen this all coming." Antony replied.
"How?" Helen asked.
"By not being so…accommodating." Antony replied. Helen stood and went to him and grasped him lightly by his arms.
"What you are doing right now is second-guessing yourself because of your love for Theodosia. Never apologize for being in love. It wasn't that you two were incompatible, it was just that you two had grown apart. You had hoped your love and your loyalty could see past the differences." Helen said.
"I feel I allowed that to cloud my judgment. To have allowed it to go on this long. I feel I have failed you both not only as your son, but as Rana of our Dynasty." Antony replied. Now Ari stood up.
"Do you think we would think less of you because of all this? Doubt you?" Ari asked. Antony was fearful even to think such words let alone utter them to his parents. Ari shoulders slumped a bit.
"Antony…" Ari said.
"I beg your forgiveness." Antony replied.
"For what? Falling in love with the wrong person?" Ari asked incredulous.
"Yes." Antony whispered. Both Ari and Helen took a deep breath and glanced at one another.
"Antony, you did nothing wrong except open your heart." Ari replied. Antony bowed his head. Ari took a deep breath, went up to her son and kissed him on top of it.
"Antony, you are our first born and you make us exceptionally proud. We love you, mistakes and all. Never, ever forget that again." Ari said.
"Yes, Mummy." Antony said and bowed his head once more. This time Ari acknowledged the bow.
"Good. I think we are done with all of this business." Ari replied as she looked at Helen.
"Quite done." Helen said.
"Thank you Mummy, Mother." Antony said, bowed his head and left. Ari and Helen looked at the door for a long moment then looked at one another.
"Well, there is that then." Ari said.
"I quite agree." Helen replied. "Are you concerned?"
"About what? Theodosia?" Ari asked.
"Yes."
"No."
"Maybe you should." Helen cautioned.
"Thought you accepted her?" Ari queried.
"She was never right for him." Helen replied.
"They seemed pretty compatible to me." Ari said as she stretched and sat back down on the couch.
"I am recollecting a past conversation that has now since proved itself fortuitous." Helen replied as she sat next to her.
"You doubt she ever loved him in the first place?" Ari asked.
"Oh, there was no doubt they loved one another." Helen replied.
"I hear a 'but' in that statement." Ari said as she put her arm around Helen.
"But there was no passion. A true, honest relationship needs passion as well as love. It needs fire. Antony is a loving man, but he is also a fiercely loyal, passionate, man. He needs a fiercely loyal, passionate, woman." Helen replied as her eyes swirled orangish-red.
"Hmm. I wonder where he gets that from." Ari said as she shifted her eyes to where they flamed blue.
"I wonder indeed." Helen replied as their lips met in a passionate embrace.
"So, Your Excellency, it looks like our agenda is shaping up pretty nicely." Ensi Teppo Dufour said shaking Theodosia out of her remembrance.
"Yes, it looks good. The Grand Ducals will be meeting with Rana Chavalier later in the month to seek his approval before he presents out agenda before the Tetrarch and the Regency. Then onward to the Parliament." Theodosia replied as she quickly piled the remaining proposals into one pile and nodded at Dyak Brys Gaetan, her Principal Aide to take them away.
"Do you expect any opposition, Your Excellency?" Ensi Dessa Fiacre asked.
"If there is any opposition it will take little to overcome it. Besides, I think everyone is more concerned with the activities surrounding the installation of the Princess Royal." Ensi Aramis Rémy answered for her.
"With both the Convocation and the Installation Ceremony a very busy year for us." Ensi Quain Isaure said.
"Not to mention we just had the Parliamentary Banquet, and we have to factor in Her Majesty's 'Great Sleep' I've just chalked it up to living at the Presidium for the rest of the year rather than returning to my provinces. My husband is grumbling, of course, at the confluence of events." Ensi Dessa Fiacre said.
"I suppose Her Royal Highness will be bringing her food along?" Ensi Yves Marin said.
"Ensi Marin, you will need to temper your enthusiasm during the festivities. Don't want your enthusiasm to show." Theodosia replied sarcastically.
"Of course, Your Excellency. Ensi Marin replied.
"A salient point. I am sure there will be plenty of humans about during the ceremony." Ensi Isaure commented.
"I suspect not as many as one might imagine. From what I understand while she may be the champion of humans, so to speak, she doesn't have very many acquaintances that are human, if only through this Dr. Lewis."
"Has anyone met this Dr. Lewis yet?" Ensi Marin asked. Everyone shook their heads.
"We have one last agreement that we need to discuss that requires resolution." Ensi Remy said.
"What agreement is that?" Theodosia asked.
"This particular agreement involves the Mesha Delegation." Ensi Remy pointed out as everyone looked at Theodosia who said nothing.
"That means…" Ensi Remy said breaking the silence.
"Dealing with His Serene Highness Antony Prescotti." Theodosia finished.
"Do you wish for others to handle this particular matter, Your Excellency?" Ensi Remy said
"No. I will attend to it." Theodosia replied. Dyak Gaetan approached from behind.
"Your Excellency, you asked me to remind you?" Dyak Gaetan said.
"Yes, thank you." Theodosia said as she rose from her chair and everyone stood and offered slight bows of their heads as she departed the room.
She entered her private offices and Dyak Gaetan motioned to the comms. She nodded back at him and he left the room and shut the door behind him.
"Comms on." Theodosia said. Antony's image appeared.
"Yes, Theo?" Antony said curtly.
"Hello to you too." Theodosia replied.
"I'm busy Theo."
"Antony, we need to talk." Theodosia said. Antony said nothing.
"Do I have to show up on your doorstep?"
"Theo, I'm in Nassoria."
"I am aware."
"I will be here for a while."
"How long will you ignore me Antony?" Theodosia demanded. Antony said nothing.
"Antony!"
"What do you expect me to say?"
"Something! Anything!" Theodosia demanded.
"I have to go, Theo. Good-bye!"
"Antony!" But the call ended. Theodosia sat back in her chair, both frustrated and furious. She sat for a few moments then made another call.
