Dr. Lauren Lewis was greeted by Dr. Emilia Prescotti and Dr. Leigh Ortuso inside the main atrium area of Presidium Medical and was taken aback by the sight of it all. The main atrium was not decorated in the standard, antiseptic, sterile environment found in nearly all human hospital lobbies, but with large plantings lush greenery, and trees with heights that seem to go on. Lauren thought she was in a botanical arboretum but on a fantastic scale. Lauren quickly realized she should not have been surprised at all. It was the Presidium after all.

"On behalf of Their Majesties, welcome Dr. Lauren Lewis to Presidium Medical!" Dr. Prescotti greeted.

"Thank you ever so much, Dr. Prescotti." Dr. Lewis replied.

"Dr. Lewis, this is Dr. Leigh Ortuso, your predecessor here at Presidium Medical, who will now serve as head of the Bio-Molecular Engineering Division."

"Dr. Ortuso, it is an honor to meet you in person. I must say this was not what I had intended." Dr. Lewis began.

"Please, Dr. Lewis there are no worries here. My first passion is bio-molecular engineering. When we found out that you are both an experienced and talented Scientist and Doctor of Medicine it was a matter of fate and opportunity. I could not be more pleased at your selection as Head of Presidium Medical." Dr. Ortuso replied.

"That is most generous of you. Please note, I will need your help, both your help," as she looked to Emilia, "to be as successful as I can."

"Absolutely." Dr. Ortuso replied. Then there was a slight commotion as Her Serene Highness Maxima Prescotti walked into the lobby and was greeted with bows and courtesies which she acknowledged.

"Dr. Lewis! Welcome to Presidium Medical!" Maxima said.

"Thank you, Your Serene Highness." Dr. Lewis replied. Then Maxima went over and greeted her sister with a brief hug and kiss on the cheek.

"So Dr. Lewis, Her Serene Highness will be joining us on your tour in her capacity as Head of Communities of Health and Prosperity. Presidium Medical coordinates with CHP to organize the trips for the Missions Programs." Dr. Prescotti said.

"As I have said before Your Serene Highness, I am looking forward to being an active part of the Missions Program." Dr. Lewis replied.

"We as well, Doctor." Maxima replied with a smile. Lauren always enjoyed speaking with Maxima. She always smiled and carried a glow as if the sun itself followed her everywhere.

"You know, this atrium is amazing. The botanicals are stunning!" Dr. Lewis complimented.

"Nothing is more soothing when visiting Presidium Medical than visiting in a botanical environment. Dr. Corrandini whom you shall meet later, heads our Botany Division and oversees the botanicals throughout Presidium Medical, and," Emilia's attention suddenly became fixed on someone's approach, "Oh, here comes the Head Gardener, Popawi Grays." Emilia said.

"Greetings Your Serene Highnesses." Popawi Grays said as he bowed. Popawi was clearly an older Fae, with a receding gray hair under a wide straw hat, small body frame, and a few inches shorter in height than Dr. Lewis. He looked like he was still doing battle with some of the greenery, wearing rather dirty overalls, and carrying a small basket of gardening tools.

"Popawi, this is Dr. Lauren Lewis." Dr. Prescotti introduced.

"Ahhhh! The Human who helped saved our Queen. I am honored, Doctor." Popawi said.

"Thank you, but it took a team of people to save the life of Her Majesty." Dr. Lewis replied.

"I agree, but again, thank you." Popawi replied.

"You manage all of this?" Dr. Lewis asked as she took in the botanicals.

"I have the distinct honor." Popawi replied.

"This is amazing. It's like a bright garden meshed with a deep rain forest." Dr. Lewis replied.

"Peaceful and relaxing isn't it?" Popawi asked.

"Very much so." Dr. Lewis replied.

"As we intend for visitors to feel." Popawi replied.

"How long have you worked here as the Head Gardener?" Dr. Lewis asked

"Her Majesty is the fourth Sovereign I have served under." Popawi replied. Lauren did a quick calculation in her head.

"You are older than Trick…I mean the Ash…I mean…The Rana. Sorry! Still getting use to the new titles." Dr. Lewis stumbled. Popawi smiled.

"No worries, Doctor. I understand, and yes, His Excellency is significantly younger than me. He would be considered a child in comparison." Popawi replied.

"His Excellency is one of the oldest Fae I have ever met, if not the oldest." Lauren said.

"Well, now you have met someone older." Popawi said with a glint of humor in his voice.

"Do you manage this all by yourself?" Dr. Lewis asked.

"There are others." Popawi replied as he looked to Dr. Prescotti. "Her Serene Highness is quite adept."

"Not even close to your skill, Popawi." Dr. Prescotti replied.

"See that area over there Doctor Lewis?" Popawi said as he turned and pointed to a small forest area.

"Yes?"

"That is the work of Her Serene Highness here." Popawi replied.

"Dr. Prescotti, that area is breathtaking." Dr. Lewis said.

"Popawi's mentorship only increases my skill." Dr. Prescotti replied.

"I am just amazed at how adept you all are at so many things." Dr. Lewis commented. Emilia smiled.

"I understand you're also quite adept at botany yourself, Dr. Lewis?" Popawi queried.

"Not even close to this level. My skills would be a small potted plant on a desk compared to all of this."

"Well, there's no better place to continue your skill development. It's also a nice way to relax and take your mind off things." Popawi replied.

"Popawi is also a great listener and advisor on many things." Dr. Ortuso commented. Lauren smiled.

"My very own Boothby." Dr. Lewis commented.

"Pardon?" Dr. Ortuso said.

"A Star Trek reference." Dr. Lewis replied.

"Pardon?" Dr. Ortuso said. Emilia smiled.

"I shall explain later, Dr. Ortuso." Emilia replied. "Shall we move inside?"

"Please. And lovely to meet you Popawi." Dr. Lewis replied.

"You as well, Dr. Lewis." Popawi replied as he offered a slight bow of his head and tip of his hat.

They moved inside and walked down several corridors and came upon another large quadrangle with vaulted ceiling with windows. As the quadrangle revealed itself Lauren was greeted to the applause of two thousand waiting staff members. Lauren was taken back, and blushed at bit as she placed one hand to her chest.

"Oh goodness! This is overwhelming!" Lauren said.

"The staff wanted to make sure you felt welcome, and also express their heartfelt thanks at saving Her Majesty's life." Dr. Prescotti replied.

"Dr. Prescotti you continue to accord me an honor I cannot take sole credit for. You were the one who figured how to counteract the poison that ravaged Her Majesty." Lauren replied.

"Dr. Lewis, if you did not have the triage skills to save The Queen's life when she first collapsed she would have been dead. We are all grateful you were there and you saved her life." Dr. Prescotti replied.

"I am humbled. Truly humbled." Dr. Lewis replied. Dr. Prescotti turned and waved her arms to signal for the applause to die down. Then a mysterious woman approached and offered a curtsey and when acknowledged by Emilia and Maxima righted herself.

"Greetings!" Said the mysterious woman as she looked straight at Dr. Lewis.

"Allow me to make the introductions. Chancellor, this is Dr. Lauren Lewis. Dr. Lewis this is Chancellor Lael Vasteras, Head of the Council of Healers, the body that governs all health care, missions, initiatives, and programs for the entire Realm. Chancellor, this is Dr. Lauren Lewis." Dr. Prescotti replied.

"Greetings Chancellor. I am honored and deeply touched by the reception I've received here." Dr. Lewis replied.

"It is well deserved, and we will most certainly benefit from your expertise for sure as you take your position as Head of Presidium Medical. And it comes at a fortuitous time, especially now that Dr. Ortuso' attention will be focused on a broader agenda." Chancellor Vasteras said.

"I beg your pardon, Chancellor?" Dr. Ortuso queried.

"Surely a member of the Council will have their attention focused on the broader agenda." Chancellor Vasteras replied.

"You mean…" Dr. Ortuso said as looked at them all astonished.

"Yes, Dr. Ortuso you have been promoted to sit on the Council of Healers." Third Regent Rimma Prescotti said as she walked into the quadrangle to a series of bows and curtsies.

"Congratulations, Doctor!" Rimma said as she led a second round of applause.

"Your Excellency, I am beyond words." Dr. Ortuso replied as she bowed her head in acknowledgement.

"Well, I certainly look forward to more intensive debates on the progression of health initiatives throughout the Realm for sure." Chancellor Vasteras said.

"Thank you, Chancellor…I mean yes, Chancellor." Dr. Ortuso stumbled. Third Regent Prescotti looked around.

"Where's The Princess Royal? Is she not here?" Rimma asked.

"No. She is in the middle of a training session with the Deputy Regent." Lauren replied.

"We were just about to convene in the Main Conference Chamber, introduce Dr. Lewis to the principal staff, and then provide an overview of Presidium Medical. Dr. Lewis, please." Emilia explained then gestured her down the hall towards a large set of minimally ornate double doors.

As they approached the staff opened the doors and Lauren's eyes went wide. Chamber was the correct word as the staff filed in behind them and took their seats. The Chamber was several tiers high with each progressing tier at a 45-degree angle from the last. Each tier was three-quarters of a circle with the innermost tier decorated with white, high-back chairs that reminded Lauren from a supreme court. The dark beige walls reflected "moment" images of the work the Presidium had done throughout the Realm emblazoned in stone.

"Dr. Lewis? Is everything okay?" Emilia asked.

"I should never be surprised by the size of things here at the Presidium, but I always am." Lauren replied.

"Your seat is right over there." Emilia replied.

Dr. Lewis took her seat around a very heavy, and very solid table. Aside from her welcoming party, nine other staff members took their seats around the innermost circle of the tier as Lauren. Everyone settled into their seats with the exception of Emilia who had remained standing at the center of the Conference Chamber.

"Third Regent Prescotti, Chancellor Vasteras, Your Serene Highness Prescotti, Members of Presidium Medical, thank you for your attendance here today to welcome Dr. Lauren Lewis to Presidium Medical!" Another round of applause ensued.

"Dr. Lewis, before we start I would like to take this moment to introduce you to your principal Division heads on the Medical side. Dr. B'Lanna Makar, with whom you are already acquainted." They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"This is Dr. Mira Osheen. Her practice is general medicine." Emilia introduced. They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"This is Dr. Leena Florent. She too practices general medicine." They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"This is Dr. Kicho Asaro, she also practices general medicine." They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"And this is Dr. Stockley Easton, he coordinates all of our programs and initiatives with the Communities of Health and Prosperity."

"Dr. Easton, I look forward to you meeting Dr. Hollis Gardholt from the JFM. He does much of the same work as you do." Dr. Lewis said.

"I look forward to meeting him, Dr. Lewis." Dr. Easton replied.

"I head the Laboratory, Research and Teaching Divisions of Presidium Medical. Dr. Leigh Ortuso, whom you already met will continue her work in Bio-Molecular engineering as well as her new responsibilities on the Council of Healers." Dr. Prescotti said. "This Dr. Alfred Riko, who is part of the Research Team and my Deputy." They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"This is Dr. Uttara Marek. She is also part of the Research Team." They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"This is Dr. Nigel Musoke who also part of the Research Team, and does a lot of field work with Communities of Health and Prosperity. You will see him on many of the Mission trips." Dr. Prescotti said. They exchanged smiles and nods of their heads.

"And this is Dr. Terram Corradini. He heads the field of Botany, and whom you will also see on mission trips that affect the land. In fact, he will be departing here shortly after this briefing to join Rana Prescotti in Nassoria to assist with the investigation of the issues discovered there." Dr. Prescotti said.

"My knowledge of Botany is limited but nearly all of it stems from my field experiences. I would love to gain an understanding of the issues facing Nassoria, and if I can be of assistance please let me know." Dr. Lewis offered.

"Thank you, Dr. Lewis. I shall certainly remember that." Dr. Corrandini replied.

"Thank you, Dr. Prescotti for the introductions. It is nice to meet you all. I look forward to working with each and every one of you." Dr. Lewis replied.

"If I can direct your attention to…" Emilia began but was interrupted by a commotion and then the Conference Chamber doors opened to reveal The Queen, The Queen Consort, and Regent Saladin. Everyone stood and either bowed or curtsied, and when acknowledged The Queen went up her daughter.

"Dr. Prescotti, apologies for the interruption but we wished to welcome Dr. Lewis to Presidium Medical and join in your brief. Do you mind?" Ari asked her daughter.

"We are honored, Your Majesties by your attendance." Emilia replied. The Queen, The Queen Consort and Regent Saladin then rounded the table as three of the staff quickly vacated seats nearest to Dr. Lewis. The Queen sat between Chancellor Vasteras and Dr. Lewis and The Queen Consort sat on the opposite side of Dr. Lewis. Regent Saladin took a seat next to Rimma.

"Chancellor Vasteras, always good to see you." The Queen said.

"Your Majesties, you accord us a great honor by your presence here today." Chancellor Vasteras replied.

"Dr. Ortuso. Congratulations on your promotion to the Council of Healers." The Queen said.

"Your Majesties, I am deeply honored." Dr. Ortuso replied.

"It is well-deserved. Dr. Prescotti, the floor is again yours." The Queen said.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Emilia replied as the lights dimmed. The Queen Consort leaned over to Lauren.

"You may want to hold on." The Queen Consort warned.

"Your Majesty?" Lauren queried as the higher lever tiers detached from the innermost tier and then moved back and up as the innermost tier and center floor raised and turned as screens popped up into the air the same way as the communications system. Lauren was stunned by the wonders of it all. The Queen leaned over to Lauren.

"Reminds you of Star Trek?" The Queen whispered.

"Way cooler, Your Majesty." Lauren said eyes wide.

"Let us begin with a run-down of all departments then we will take the virtual tour." Emilia said.

"Virtual tour?" Lauren asked.

"Unlike anything you have ever seen doctor." The Queen replied with a glint in her voice.


Elena led Bo out into the training courtyard. Bo saw a series of shields, knives, long poles, and spears spread about in their various holders. Elena looked at Bo as she took in all the equipment around her.

"Princess, how much formalized combat training have you had with different weaponry?" Elena asked.

"Actually none. All of my training with weapons is largely been as the threat comes. I am not completely unfamiliar, but my forte is with knives and daggers." Bo replied.

"Mummy loves shields. She taught us all to be fluent in the use of shields. It is amazing to watch her in a sparring session. Mummy takes combat training very seriously. We learned early in our lives to handle short knives and shields, and as we grew so did the weapons and shields we handled. She wants both Saladin and I to teach you as well." Elena said to Bo's quizzical look.

"Saladin?"

"Saladin is the finest trainer in the Realm in combatives. He will be your trainer with the long sword as well as the short knife. For now, these initial sessions with me is to become familiar with what you already know so we can develop a combatives program for you."

"Okay." Bo said.

"Know this Princess, I mean to work you long and hard." Elena warned. Bo smiled at the challenge.

"Bring it on!"

"Very well then. Turn them on." Elena said. Bo gave her another quizzical look.

"Turn them on?"

"Those lovely baby blues of yours, Princess." Elena jibed.

"I'm not use to turning those on unless the situation is…threatening." Bo replied with some hesitation.

"Understand Princess that your Fae nature is not one to be hidden or ashamed here. You may be used to keeping it under wraps back where you came from for obvious reasons, but that is what may have also hindered your development as Fae. During these initial training sessions I expect you to allow your Succubus nature to consume you completely as we practice different styles and techniques." Elena explained.

"That may be dangerous for you, Elena." Bo cautioned. Elena laughed.

"Do not worry about your Succubus nature endangering me, Princess. With the exception of Antony, I helped train all my siblings. You can swim in your nature, and I will still be able to control you. What these training sessions will teach you is how to control yourself. Your natural self." Elena replied then shifted her eyes blue. Bo reared back a bit for the iris of Elena's eyes did not simply turn blue but the entire orb of her eyes, and they illuminated like flames in a fire. Elena smiled at Bo's reaction.

"Oh yes, we have a great deal to teach you, Princess." Emilia said. Bo let loose a sinister grin and dutifully shifted her eyes blue. Elena extended her Seracon shield and sword.

"Ready to dance, Princess?" Elena prompted. Bo responded with her sword and shield extended.

"Oh yes!" Bo replied, and then they rushed at one another.

When they finished their training session a few hours later Bo felt exhilarated as if every vein in her body was alive and on fire. In all her Fae life she had never before been able to swim in her Succubus nature, and here she was allowed for it to consume her for hours on end. Elena was right; Bo had no idea how powerful her Fae nature was when let loose. Just from this first combat session alone she discovered her Fae nature could fuel her energy for hours. But she also realized it made her incredibly horny. Bo looked at Elena with her baby blues, smiled a wicked smile, dropped her Seracon sword and shield onto the ground and moved off quickly. Elena smiled, shook her head then informed the Regnant Guard to alert Presidium Medical of Bo's impromptu visit.

The call found Dr. Prescotti in one of the Research Labs conducting an overview of the active research projects for Dr. Lewis. After the Regnant Guard conveyed the message Emilia looked to Dr. Lewis and smiled. Lauren looked at her quizzically.

"Is there something going on Dr. Prescotti?" Dr. Lewis queried.

"Elena and Her Royal Highness are done with their first training session, and Her Royal Highness is now on the hunt…if you get my meaning." Emilia answered. Lauren did a slight roll of her eyes, and let out a breath.

"If you were Fae we just let Her Royal Highness go, but because you are human Elena and I will need to taper Her Royal Highness's…desire to where she will be…manageable." Emilia said with a smile.

"Taper her off how?" Lauren asked.

"You'll see." Emilia replied.

"Dr. Prescotti I cannot help but wonder if you are finding this all very humorous." Lauren said with a hint of sarcasm.

"Well, Dr. Lewis, I could think of a lot worse things than being chased around a room by an excited Succubus!" Emilia replied. Lauren blushed and smiled. At that moment, the doors burst open to reveal Bo scanning the room looking for Lauren with Elena close behind her. Emilia and Elena's eyes met for a minute.

"Bo!" Lauren called out.

Bo focused on Lauren and advanced at a rapid pace. Lauren was too fixated on Bo to notice that Elena and Emilia had both went behind Bo and placed their hands on Bo's back, and steadied her as they used their Succubi powers to pulsate through Bo which caused Bo to stop, stagger a bit, close her eyes, and take in a deep breath. For a few long moments Bo just stood there taking in the effects as Lauren watched fascinated. After a few moments both Elena and Emilia detached themselves, and Bo opened her eyes. Lauren was taken aback at how blue Bo's eyes were. Both orbs were entirely blue and simmered aflame.

"Bo! Your eyes!" Lauren said as she looked quickly between Elena and Emilia. Bo smiled at Lauren as both Emilia and Elena let go of her. She took a couple more steps, took Lauren's face in both her hands and kissed her deeply.

"Wow! Well, I guess those combat training sessions are proving quite impactful." Lauren said when they broke their kiss.

"I am missing you." Bo replied with a sultry look that a blind person could see. Lauren then took Bo by the hand.

"And on that note, Dr. Prescotti, Your Excellency, if you will excuse us." Lauren said politely to both Elena and Emilia as she led Bo out of the Lab in the direction of their private chambers.

"If they make it to their chambers I will be surprised." Elena remarked. Emilia laughed.


Early the next morning Lauren was awakened not by an alarm or by the sunshine beaming down on her face through the curtains in their bedroom, but by Bo's snoring. Lauren sat up in bed, looked over at Bo, and could not believe her ears. While she certainly enjoyed the intimate aftereffects of Bo's combat training, she would not remain happy if it meant dealing with Bo sawing logs all night.

Lauren rose out of bed, put a robe on, and went over to the window to take in the sunshine, but then quickly turned to make sure Bo was not choking herself with the air she sucked in. She walked into the bathroom to find the Seneschal making preparations for the start of her day. Afterwards, she went into the outer foyer of their bedroom, and picked up her piping hot cup of coffee, and reviewed the days' agenda. The Seneschal did not understand the concoction she loved but somehow figured out how to make the finest coffee she had ever tasted. She thought Lise's coffee was addictive but the Seneschal's mastery of coffee was heads above Lise's, and she didn't think that was possible. After she reviewed the days' schedule she headed towards the children's bedroom. The Seneschal were about to walk past Lauren to wake Bo but she stopped them.

"Let her sleep undisturbed for a while longer." The Seneschal bowed and left the room.

Lauren entered the children's room as she did every day to welcome the morning with them. After Lauren's first day at the Presidium Lauren made sure time was allocated each morning for her and Bo to spend time with the children before the start of breakfast. Usually, Bo would join Lauren about 15 minutes later, but that would not be the case today. After about 30 minutes of allowing the children to crawl all over her she handed them back to the Seneschal to finish dressing them for breakfast, and returned to the bedroom to find Bo still honking away. Just then the Seneschal announced that Elena and Maxima waited in the outer foyer. Lauren went out to greet them.

"Good morning, Dr. Lewis!" Maxima greeted.

"Good morning, Your Serene Highness, Your Excellency, and please call me Lauren."

"We shall do so from now, where appropriate of course so long as you follow the same rule for us." Elena replied.

"Absolutely." Lauren replied when Maxima's attention perked up.

"Gracious! What is that noise? Is that Bo?" Maxima asked. Lauren smiled and nodded her head.

"Elena dutifully wore her out." Lauren replied.

"I think I am only half responsible." Elena quickly retorted. Lauren blushed slightly and smiled.

"I wanted to ask. Bo eyes. They were entirely blue and aflame. I have never seen Bo's eyes do that. What was that?" Lauren asked.

"That is actually quite normal for most Succubi and Incubi, including Ranoruks." Elena asked.

"I have seen Bo in the early stages of devolution, and even then her eyes were never that blue." Lauren replied.

"Most likely due to the fact she's never been allowed to have her Succubi nature consume her. Something that was clear during our initial training session." Elena said.

"Consume? What do mean by consume?" Lauren asked.

"Allow her Fae nature to reveal itself not through hunger or desire but simply as a Succubus. Part of Bo's training will be to get her use to thinking, acting, and operating as a Fae in a wholly Fae world. Where she can be herself here and yet still control her sexual hunger." Elena replied.

"Bo's been controlling her sexual hunger for years. She's had to in order to hide her true nature from Humans." Lauren said.

"It shows. It's made her hesitant, unsure even. But as we went through our training session she felt more confident, safe, and alive. What you saw was a Fae who was allowed to be herself without fear, without hesitation." Elena replied.

"What about the strength and ferocity of her sexual hunger?" Lauren asked to raised eyebrows and smiles. She blushed.

"Not that I'm complaining, but if Bo continues to be consumed like this I may need training on how to do what you and Emilia did to temper her desire." Lauren added.

"There will be two sides to Bo's training: One will be the combatives training, and the other will be with Rimma to help control Bo's sexual hunger through Tantra." Elena replied.

"Excuse me?" Lauren asked said not sure if she heard Elena right.

"Tantra." Maxima repeated.

"You mean Tantric? As in Tantric sex exercises? We're already aware of such practices on our plane of existence…I mean the Human plane of existence." Lauren asked.

"I understand the Humans focus largely on the sexual compontent?" Maxima queried.

"That is the most popular aspect of it, yes." Lauren replied.

"We focus on the meditative here, controlling and challenging the energy that flows throughout both our minds and bodies. Tantra is the natural disciplinary practice for those Succubi and Incubi who rely on sex to feed. When Bo is fully trained she can be entirely consumed in fires of her Fae nature and just as quickly bring herself down without so much as flicker in her hungers."

"Are you kidding me? All this time and all we had to do was put Bo through a Tantric course?" Lauren asked somewhat flabbergasted. Elena and Maxima smiled.

"The solution sounds simple, and I am sure some basic tantric techniques could have helped in some cases in the past with Bo, but even from what I have observed I doubt the techniques the Humans could have employed would have been strong enough to hold her in check if she had ever allowed her Succubi nature come on full bore." Elena replied.

"That makes sense. Logical, eloquent, common sense." Lauren said and fell into a brief moment of reflection.

"Lauren?" Elena prompted.

"Sorry, just reflecting." Lauren replied as she took a deep breath and exhaled. "So Rimma teaches Tantra?"

"Mysticism is one of Rimma's secondary Fae abilities, much like our Aunt Nehanda, and it makes her one of the best teachers of Tantra." Maxima explained.

"When will that aspect of Bo's training start?" Lauren asked.

"Fairly quickly, unless, of course you would like to stay with the present regime." Elena said with a glint of humor.

"Bo should get started right away." Lauren said deadpan. Elena and Maxima chuckled.

"Can you join us for breakfast?" Lauren asked.

"Thank you for the offer but I have an early meeting at the Regency, but wanted to stop by and check on Bo first." Elena replied.

"I would love to. It will also be nice to visit with your children." Maxima said.

"Great! Well, the children should be out soon for their breakfast." Lauren replied.

"I will leave you both to it then. Good morning, Lauren." Elena said.

"Good morning Elena." Lauren replied as Elena turned and left.

"Well, let me go and wake Her Royal Snorer in there." Lauren said as she turned for the bedroom.

"That would be a good idea before Bo tears the roof off." Maxima replied. Lauren smiled.

Lauren walked back into the bedroom, closed the door three-quarters of the way, and crawled back into bed with Bo still honking away. She watched Bo for a bit then kissed her on her neck then on her chest and continued to do so until Bo wrestled awake. She looked up at Lauren, and realized she had drooled down the side of her mouth.

"Gracious! What was I doing?" as she wiped the drool off the side of her mouth.

"Snoring." Lauren replied.

"Snoring? Bad enough to drool all over myself?" Bo asked.

"Bad enough to wake the dead." Lauren said.

"I must have been more tired than I thought." Bo replied as she rubbed her face. Lauren kissed Bo again on her chest.

"Maxima and Elena stopped by. Maxima is joining us for breakfast but Elena had an early morning at The Regency." Lauren said. Bo nodded as she tried to rise out of bed but then stopped.

"Oh dear God! Every muscle in my body is screaming!" Bo said in pain.

"That is what happens when you train for hours hyped up on your Succubus power and then have hours of sex on top of it." Lauren replied.

"Honestly, Lauren I can hardly move." Bo replied. That is when Maxima poked her head through the door.

"Pardon me, may I come in?" Maxima called from the door.

"Sure." Lauren called out. Maxima entered the bedroom.

"I could not help but to overhear but that is one of the reasons why I am here. We suspected she might be a bit sore." Maxima said.

"A bit?" Bo complained.

"To help you relax your muscles so you can be ready for the next round of combatives training, we need to prepare a bath and add these crystals to it," Maxima said as she held up a jar. "Trust me as soon as you immerse yourself in them your muscles will instantly relax and you will no longer feel sore."

"One would think I could stick to just feeding. How are you ever going to get my muscles to relax anyway? I can barely move." Bo replied. Maxima smiled.

"Not every Fae has the luxury of being a Succubi or Incubi. Our Labs created it so our warriors could test their limits without losing training time recovering from soreness and light injury." Maxima said.

"Good thinking. In any case, in order for me to take advantage of those crystals I need to be able to get out of bed first." Bo replied.

"Let me help you." Maxima said as she dismissed the waiting Seneschal and went over to Bo.

Lauren looked at Bo and shook her head.

"Well, now we know, no sex for you after your training sessions." Lauren said.

"You heard Maxima she has crystals that can relax my muscles." Bo replied. Lauren looked to Maxima.

"Do you have any crystals that can cure snoring?" Lauren asked.

"Unfortunately, no." Maxima replied. Lauren turned back to Bo.

"No sex!" Lauren said as she headed into the bathroom.

"Oh c'mon!" Bo called to deaf ears.


A week later after rolling out of bed at what Lauren considered an obscene early hour of the morning, and after the Seneschal helped knock her eyeballs open Dr. Lauren Lewis met the Her Serene Highness Ariella Prescotti, the Deputy Pashan of the Knights of the Guard out on the Presidium training field, yawning hard. Lauren had went through all of her introductory tours and briefings and now it was time for her to start her combatives training. She was greeted by a buoyant Ariella who seemed as if she had already partaken of a vat of coffee.

"Good morning, Lauren." Ariella greeted.

"There ought to be a law against waking up this early, Ariella." Lauren said as she yawned again and rubbed her face.

"I trust you had a good nights' rest?" Ariella asked.

"For the most part. Bo and I were both were up studying about the Presidium and its functions, but then we both fell asleep with our study materials in hand."

"How is Bo doing?" Ariella asked.

"She's holding up well, trying to get use to the new routine as we all are, but we have to find something for her snoring because I cannot be kept up half the night from it." Lauren replied.

"That bad?" Ariella asked.

"What? You can't hear it?" Lauren asked smartly which made Ariella laugh.

"Is this combatives training really necessary Ariella? I am a doctor, after all." Lauren asked.

"As necessary as breathing. Before we begin, do you have any combatives training experience?" Ariella asked.

"I know hardly anything, except what I have picked up here and there…and how to escape handcuffs." Lauren admitted. Ariella lifted one eyebrow.

"It is not what you think, except it could also be handy in that situation as well." Lauren added. Ariella laughed.

"A woman of varied talents. Respects." Ariella said.

"I try to acquire as many skills as possible." Lauren said deadpan. Ariella smiled.

"Well, then, Let us begin." Ariella said as she guided Lauren through a series of expansive body stretches to observe how her body moved and contorted with each position. After thirty minutes of stretching Ariella turned to a set of racked swords.

"Now that I have seen how your body moves naturally, I want to see how you move and handle different types of weapons. This will help me establish a combatives regimen for you." Ariella explained.

"Again, Your Serene Highness. Is this really necessary? Especially, taking up the time of someone who is Deputy of the Knights of the Guard."

"Don't worry about the time I spend with you. It is my pleasure. I love to instruct, and no matter our responsibilities, everyone is required to have some understanding of combatives. Shall we move to the swords then?" Ariella said as she pulled out a couple of swords.

Ariella started her out with a sword with some basic movements and the sword just looked flat unwieldy for Lauren. Ariella tried the bow staff and it looked equally as incompatible with Lauren's natural style of movement. Ariella then tried a short knife similar to what Bo uses, and while it was better fit Lauren it still looked incompatible with Lauren's natural style. While a warrior should have some basic familiarity with all weapons there still comes a point where a warrior develops a natural relationship with one or several types of weapons - they just had to find which one worked best for Lauren.

Ariella finally settled Arnis-like sticks which allowed Lauren to use both her hands. Just from the short time she sparred with Lauren she could see Lauren preferred to use both hands, and it was a good choice for Lauren took to the Arnis-like sticks very well. Ariella walked her some basic rudiments with them then switched her to the Seracon shield and blade. She had informed Lauren that it was a requisite that everyone learned how to use a shield. Lauren seemed to take to that well, although not as well as Arnis-like sticks. As Ariella sparred with Lauren it dawned on her what might be the ideal weapon for Lauren. She had Lauren drop the Seracon shield and blade and picked up the bow and arrow. After she showed Lauren the basics she had Lauren shoot a few arrows off. Lauren took to the bow and arrow like a duck to water. They found her compatible weapon.

"You look as natural with the bow and arrow as Mother does." Ariella commented.

"The Queen Consort shoots the bow and arrow?" Lauren asked.

"Mother can hit a tick off your shoulder at a hundred feet with one of those. She is exceptional with it." Ariella replied.

"I do not doubt it."

"One of these days I will ask Mother to join us."

"Oh, um, I don't think I am ready for that."

"Trust me, you will be fine. Mother is the one that taught us all how to use the bow and arrow, and we all felt just as inadequate when we first started. Shall we begin?" Ariella prompted.

"Let's." Lauren replied.

After her initial session with Ariella, Lauren returned to her private chambers sore and exhausted. Now she knew how Bo. Kenzi and Trick felt with their morning combatives training. The Seneschal greeted her at the door and handed her a cup of coffee. Lauren took the cup and slowly settled in the nearest chair.

"I take it the children are up now?" Lauren asked.

"Preparing their baths as we speak, Milady." The Seneschal replied.

"Bo?"

"The Princess Royal has yet to return from her training this morning with Her Serene Highness Elena."

"Now I know exactly how she felt." Lauren commented. The Seneschal smiled. Lauren took another sip of her coffee, closed her eyes to take the sweet taste, and then opened them, and looked at the Seneschal.

"I better get moving, huh?" Lauren queried. The Seneschal smiled. Lauren then got up slowly and limped all the way to the bathroom. She saw the Seneschal had the soaker tub all ready for her. She stripped fairly quickly and then crawled into the soaker tub. Whatever soaker crystals Maxima gave to Bo the Seneschal gave to her. Within minutes, her muscles were relaxed and free from soreness.

"I'm glad you have these crystals, otherwise I would never make it through the training sessions." Lauren said. The Seneschal smiled. Lauren basked in the relaxation of soaking in the tub when Bo dragged herself in. She had cuts and bruises all over her which made Lauren perk up from the tub.

"Bo? Are you alright?"

"Another day, another ass-kicking. I swear I think I'm more the exercise for Elena than the reverse" Bo replied as the Seneschal helped her out of her training gear."

"That tough today."

"I swear she hardly breaks a sweat. I think I saw a bead today." Bo said while taking the cup of hot coffee handed to her by the Seneschal and savored it just as much as Lauren did hers.

"So how did your training session go with Ariella?" Bo asked.

"I had to stop at the front doors I was so sore. I think we experimented with every weapon known to Faedom." Lauren replied.

"What was your favorite?" Bo asked.

"There wasn't so much a favorite as what suited me the best. I looked like an idiot swinging a sword."

"I'm sure you didn't look like an idiot. I'm sure you were fine with all the weapons."

"Why, thank you for the vote of confidence. Well, one ended up suiting me the best."

"Oh? What one was that?"

"The bow and arrow" Lauren replied. Bo pondered the thought for a minute.

"Yep, I could actually see that." Bo said.

"Ariella informed me that The Queen Consort is exceptional with it. Said she trained all of them on it."

"I could see that too." Bo replied. Then looked at Lauren with intent. "Hey, do you mind some company?" Lauren smiled.

"Would love it." Lauren replied. The Seneschal bowed and departed the bathroom.

'You gotta love the Seneschal at times." Bo said as she joined Lauren in the bathtub.


Later in the mid-morning, while Bo worked in the downstairs drawing room with her new aides Willa and Landon to review the days' agenda Lauren took their four children out for a walk with the Seneschal in tow, of course. As usual Ryan forged ahead with Char right behind him while Ethan and MaryAoife took in everything around them. Anytime Lauren took a walk around the gardens it reminded her of how she found life at the Presidium all so surreal. It was like a whirlwind of events that had swept them up with no time to breathe or consider everything around them. In that instant, she suddenly missed everyone, and everything that she was used to back home – on the Human plane. Her plane. She stopped at a nearby garden bench and sat down while the children explored around her.

"I wish I could call the County from here." Lauren said out loud to no one in particular.

"You can Milady." The Seneschal replied.

"Really?" Lauren asked incredulous.

"Yes, Milady. Who would you like to call?"

"Dyson." Lauren replied fairly quickly to her own surprise. The Seneschal looked into the air.

"Call Ash Thornwood." The Seneschal said. The air shimmered and Dyson's image appeared. The call found him at home.

"Wow!" Lauren replied.

"I've received that reaction from time to time." Dyson replied with a smile. Lauren rolled her eyes a bit. The Seneschal then went and sat with the children so Lauren could speak with Dyson alone.

"So what do I owe the pleasure?" Dyson asked.

"I think I needed to hear a familiar voice from home." Lauren replied.

"Well, hello!" Dyson said as he waved. "Where is everyone?" Dyson asked.

"Bo is off meeting with her new staff, the children are milling about here in the garden. Kenzi is off with the Agency, and Trick is off meeting with his Grand Ducals." Lauren replied.

"Aren't you supposed to be at work too?" Dyson asked.

"I still have some time this morning. Where's Tamsin?" Lauren asked.

"Still investigating what happened to Brazenwood. She's engaged JJI to help out." Dyson replied.

"Dare I ask about Evony and Vex?" Lauren asked.

"Evony and Stasio are working the transition, and to my utter amazement so is Vex." Dyson replied.

"And to mine as well." Lauren commented.

"Is there anything you need? You seem a little off?" Dyson asked.

"I think I just needed to hear a familiar voice from a familiar place." Lauren replied.

"I understand. Have you contacted the JFM? Talked to Abigail?" Dyson asked.

"I planned to contact her this week. See how things are doing." Lauren replied.

"Sounds like today is a good day." Dyson said. Lauren chuckled.

"How's the Clubhouse? Still standing?" Lauren asked.

"Very much so. I just purchased all the land within five miles of it." Dyson replied.

"Wow! That's a large purchase."

"Had to, and largely for security should you guys ever wish to use it again, and to house the army that's now required to accompany you all, and keep prying eyes at a distance. In fact, the contingent of the Fae Army that's here is already setting up facilities and communications for it. And the Preservationist Society keeps just the way Bo, Kenzi, and Tamsin left it." Dyson explained.

"That was very thoughtful of you Dyson, and nostalgic." Lauren replied.

"Well, at least you have one piece of nostalgia with you." Dyson said.

"Oh yes, the mantle. It sits in Bo's office."

"No, the Beast."

"What?"

"The Beast. Bo and Kenzi took it with them when they left. Surely, you knew." Dyson said.

"I did not."

"Well, then I shall leave you to it."

"Tell Tamsin and everyone hello from us." Lauren said.

"I will, and same from us. Enjoy your day." Dyson replied.

"You too." Lauren replied and the call ended. Then Lauren turned to the Seneschal.

"Where's the Beast?"

"I beg your pardon, Milady?"

"Bo's yellow car."

"This way, Milady." The Seneschal led her and the four children to out of their private gardens down a long pathway and to an opening. When they emerged, Lauren took one at the sight in front of her and shook her head.


When Lauren returned from her walk and settled the children with the Seneschal she went to Bo's office.

"So, you had the Seneschal grab the Beast on the way out, huh?" Lauren queried. Bo smiled broadly but kept her focus on her paperwork and said nothing. Willa and Landon who were sitting at a table nearby kept their focus on the work in front of them.

"I was outside walking with the children and saw the enclave they built for it. The operative word being 'enclave', mind you. Had the Brynai Society of Engineers build it, eh?" Lauren asked. Bo looked up.

"Well, I couldn't just leave it behind. It pained me to leave it behind." Bo replied.

"What, on this plane of existence are we going to do with it?" Lauren asked out of exasperation.

"Drive it!" Bo replied with a bright smile.

"It's considered an environmental nightmare here!"

"Well, I am the Princess Royal. The populace will have to get used it." Bo replied with faux pretentiousness in her voice.

"Okay, Miss high and mighty," Lauren said as she walked out of the room, "don't be surprised if the populace revolt if you insist on taking that air choker down the street!"

"The Dal Riata is next!" Bo yelled after her.

"Whatever!" Lauren yelled back. Bo laughed hard.