Dyson watched as Trick raced back and forth between desks in his offices at the Presidium shouting orders to Beverly and his staff as he went. Dyson had been at the Presidium for several days and it hummed with dignitaries and their various staff attending meetings, gatherings and ceremonial events. There were so many Fae moving about in the very wide hallways Dyson thought he would be lost in the sea of it.
Dyson recalled his breakfast with Bo and Lauren earlier that morning and even that bustled with movement. It made Dyson tired just watching it. But he also enjoyed playing with the children on the floor nearby while the Seneschal stood watch. The children took intermittent breaks to snatch food off the table before jumping back all over him.
Lauren was at one end of the table being briefed by her Principal Assistant Dyak Lyra Harte on her schedule for the day and week. Dyson discovered Lauren had several assistants but Dyak Harte was her principal one.
Bo sat at the other end of the table with her principal assistants Willa and Landon who briefed her on the same. When Bo finished with her briefing Dyson looked at her and smiled.
"A lot going on?" Dyson asked.
"Too much." Bo replied as she rose from the table and looked at Lauren.
"Okay over there?" Bo asked.
"We are so being punished." Lauren replied. Dyson laughed.
"I know." Bo said.
"Thank you, Dyak Harte." Lauren said then handed a tablet to Dyak Harte who rose from her chair, quickly curtsied, then left the room.
"Forty lashes, huh?" Dyson teased with a smile.
"You should've heard the lectures." Bo replied. After the incident with Chas Marrero Their Majesties decided to enhance Lauren's schedule that included a focus on responsibilities in which she would be expected to conduct as the Companion to The Princess Royal. Bo would tease Lauren about it which resulted in Lauren throwing something at her in return.
"They're not wrong, you know. You will be Queen one day." Dyson said.
"You're 'Mr. Duty, Honor, Country.' Maybe you should be Queen." Bo replied.
"Destiny chose you." Dyson said with a wide smile.
"Ha, ha! Very funny!" Bo replied then went over and picked up Ryan and kissed him on the cheek. Ryan then proceeded to try and feed her some of his food. Dyson chuckled at the sight.
"Mummy's full. You eat." Bo said. Ryan did as he was told.
"Wait til you have children of your own and they try and feed you slobber food." Bo said. Dyson laughed harder.
"So what's on your agenda for today?" Lauren asked Dyson with Char suddenly on her lap while MaryAoife and Ethan toddled about.
"I have to meet Trick and Marik at Trick's offices after this." Dyson replied.
"How are you finding the Presidium?" Lauren asked.
"Since I was here last? Overwhelming to be honest." Dyson replied then asked, "How are you guys doing with all of this?"
"To be honest, there are days I still wake up a bit disoriented." Lauren replied.
"Me too. Like this is all a dream or something." Bo added.
"Yeah, but you're more resilient at adapting to new things than me." Lauren asked.
"How so?" Bo asked.
"You're able to go with the flow of things easier." Lauren replied.
"You seem to be doing that very well here lately." Bo said.
"That's because I fear mentally drowning." Lauren replied.
"Well, I love you for it." Bo said.
"You had better!" Lauren replied. Bo smiled then kissed Ryan again on the cheek and put him down to toddle off with his siblings. Which caused Char to buck on Lauren's lap so Lauren put her down as well.
"Those two." Lauren commented.
"And how's Kenzi? We know she can put on a brave face when she needs to but how is she really?" Dyson asked.
"Aside from recent events she seems to be fine. But you'll get a chance to ask her here in a minute. I wanted to call her and Tamsin before I left for the Convicium." Bo replied then turned to the Seneschal.
"Are we ready?" Bo asked.
"County Regent Tamsin and Agent Malikov are standing by." The Seneschal replied.
"Call on!" Bo called into the air. Tamsin and Kenzi shimmered into view. They were at the Clubhouse.
"The comms system never ceases to amaze me." Dyson said.
"Your Royal Highness!" Kenzi greeted with a flourish curtsey.
"Kenzi!" Bo gently admonished.
"I know, I know." Kenzi replied.
"Long time no hear." Tamsin said to Dyson.
"Yeah, a whole two hours ago." Dyson replied with a smile.
"Where are my amigos?" Tamsin called out. Ryan came running up followed by Char, MaryAoife and Ethan. They waved and chattered but when they tried to touch Kenzi and Tamsin they became frustrated. Bo took the children by the hands quickly joined by Lauren and the Seneschal.
"Sorry about that. We're working with them to understand the difference when it's just a call and when it's for real." Bo said.
"Doesn't help the Presidium has the best Skype system ever!" Kenzi replied. Everyone smiled.
"I better take them. We all have a long day." Lauren said then kissed Bo on the lips. Bo bent down and kissed each of the four amigos.
"Have a good day today, okay?" Bo said which earned a lot of nodding. Lauren and the Seneschal then led the children out of the room.
"God, they're growing!" Tamsin commented.
"They'll be two soon. We're having a little birthday party for them after the Installation Ceremony."
"That reminds me what's the decision on your mother? Do you plan to invite her? I can bring her with me when I come for the Installation." Tamsin said.
"Haven't decided yet." Bo replied.
"Bo…" Tamsin said.
"I know. I'm not sure yet. But you'll be glad to hear we called her just before breakfast to check in." Bo replied.
"So how are the Elders settling in?" Dyson asked.
"Fine for now. Your little departure ceremony certainly energized them." Tamsin replied.
"It was rather impressive." Dyson said.
"The entire Elder Far hierarchy will be at the Ducal Compound to watch the formal opening of the Convocation. Bruce is having a viewing party at the Dal. Vex and JJI intend to join that soiree. Oh and Logan and Sylvie are coming with BJ just so you know." Tamsin answered.
"Really, that's good to hear!" Bo said.
"I wish we could too watch at the Dal too, but we have to adult." Kenzi added. Bo and Dyson smiled.
"I know we haven't had a chance to really speak since Sturgis's and Val's deaths, but how are you holding up?" Dyson asked.
"I'm fine, Dyson." Kenzi replied a bit more firmly than she intended then quickly assured, "But I'm determined to find the missing pieces to all of this, starting with digging deeper into any rabbit holes Chas Marrero may have left behind."
"So what's next for you?"
"Europe! After this shindig today Gunnar and I are off to Europe to follow up on some leads."
"Well, stay safe and if you need anything just let us know." Bo said.
"Didn't you and Lauren receive the lecture of a lifetime from Their Majesties on going off script?" Kenzi asked.
"Yeah, but this time we can say our actions are part of an Agency investigation." Bo replied.
"I love you." Kenzi said.
"I know." Bo replied.
"And what about you, Tamsin? Any new rabbit holes you intend to scurry into?" Dyson poked.
"Who me?" Tamsin replied.
"Yes you!" Bo and Dyson said in unison. Kenzi smiled.
"I have a County to run. I have no time for scurrying into rabbit holes." Tamsin replied.
"Uh huh." Bo and Dyson said in unison.
"Keep the place in one piece will ya?" Dyson asked.
"That's easy. Promising to keep some of the Fae Elders alive that's another matter altogether." Tamsin replied.
"What?" Bo and Dyson said in unison.
"Good luck with the Convocation today! We're rooting for you! Bye!" Tamsin quickly said as she and Kenzi waved and the call ended.
"And just think you left those two their own devices." Bo said as she turned and grabbed her cup of coffee off the table and headed outside.
"I did?" Dyson replied with feigned incredulousness. He grabbed his coffee cup and followed her outside.
Bo led them outside onto the breakfast terrace and they could see the City of Nahala and the evident bustling of the people in the far distance.
"This place is beyond the mind's comprehension." Dyson said.
"I know, right? It's like we've died and gone to another life altogether." Bo replied then they both went and sat in chairs next to one another with a small table in between.
"This garden is quite impressive." Dyson said as he rubbed his nose.
"Are the smells playing with your wolf nose?"
"A bit."
"They're big on flowers and greenery around here. See over there?" Bo pointed to a clearing. "That's where Lauren grows some of the herbs she brought from home."
"So her famous garden wall is now an entire garden patch."
"Have you been able to take in more of the local spots in Nahala?"
"A couple. Got any recommendations?"
"Have you tried Sharper's Dock?" Bo asked.
"No."
"Best seafood in my life! And wait until you try the Bastard's Cask."
"Bastard's Cask?"
"Yeah, it's beer that comes out looking boiling hot but when you drink it it's stone cold. Apparently, it's one of Ari's favorite places to hang out."
"The Queen hangs out?"
"Surprised me too and I live here. I guess she and her old warrior friends get together there from time to time."
"That must have been quite the night."
"Actually, Emilia and I went to dinner there when Lauren was back at the County. I took the Beast out for a run." Bo replied smiling at the memory.
"I meant to check on its maintenance while I'm here."
"You don't have to worry about that. The Seneschal handle its maintenance."
"They're not replacing any of the original parts are they?" Dyson said a bit alarmed. Bo chuckled.
"No, none of that."
"I didn't know they knew anything about cars."
"They didn't, but they understand what the Beast means to me so somehow they learned how to take care of it. I was actually quite touched." Bo said with a smile.
"The Seneschal never cease to amaze me." Dyson replied.
"I'm so glad you're here. We miss you guys so much." Bo said as she reached out for Dyson's hand and he grasped it.
"We as well."
"There's got to be some way we can bring you over here."
"Then who would keep an eye on Evony?"
"Good point." Bo replied as they released hands.
"Trick is off leading an entire dynasty and seeing Eva, and Kenzi is off with the Agency and now she's seeing Antony."
"So that's official?"
"Apparently, but he's got like 50 million jobs. Not sure how that is going to work out." Bo replied as she played with her hair.
"Is something wrong?"
"I just wish he would do more than just grunt at me." Bo replied.
"Does he not like you? I know you don't like it when you think people don't like you."
"I don't think that's it. I just think it's because…he's intense. I just wish there was a way we could connect, you know. After all, I will be Queen one day."
"Coming to the realization about your destiny?"
"Slowly. And Kenzi really likes him. I wish I could just gauge him better."
"Do you have anything in common?"
"He has to allow me close enough to figure that out, but I do know he loves Juggerbol. He's the Captain of the Iron Hordes."
"Juggerbol is a dangerous sport. Nothing else?"
"I know he likes to farm."
"Really?"
"Apparently, he's really good at it."
"Well, that counts you out."
"Hey! I can grow a plant or two."
"Let's just leave plant-growing to Lauren shall we?" Dyson said as he laughed. Bo smiled.
"What about the rest of his brothers and sisters? Do they like you?"
"Julian and I seem to relate naturally. Maxima and Rimma get along with everyone. Emilia is nice to talk to. Dakari is easy-going, but he's also…opaque."
"I know what you mean."
"Elena and Ariella are almost always working, but they join us for breakfast from time to time. Jock and Atia are the only ones I've spent the least amount of time with, but that's because they've been preparing for the Convocation. Jock's sociable but he's also very contemplative, watchful. You've seen how he and Atia are like. You've worked with her back at the County. But she and Kenzi are becoming buds."
"That sounds reassuring. I thought the whole human thing would cause some issues."
"Oh, it has and does, although she never tells me if it gets nasty. I always hear from Beatrice if it does. Apparently, there were a couple of incidents during her Agency training."
"And Kenzi said nothing?"
"Not a word. I think she doesn't want to worry me. But I do know that most of the time she's spared any 'I hate humans' talk in front of her since she's my friend and her presence here is sponsored by The Queen."
"And Lauren?"
"There have been a few encounters with some very haughty Fae here and there, but Lauren is use to it. The Presidium Medical staff seem to be fine with her but they're all doctors so they see one another in that light. In any case, Chancellor Vasteras put the word out that intolerance against humans would not be tolerated."
"Good."
"So how's everything back home? You've been asking everyone else how they've been doing, how are you doing?" Bo asked.
"Took me a bit getting use to being the Ash."
"It suits you."
"That part I've come to terms with. However, being the last Ash…well…I'm still struggling with that fact. The light dark divide is all I've ever known so it's difficult to admit that I, Dyson Thornwood, will be the last Ash."
"It's the end of a long line. But having you as the last Ash is a great way to honor that line."
"You know, all this pursuit of destiny was supposed to be about you, but now I'm coming to realize that we're all inextricably linked to the same destiny."
"Do you resent it?"
"Frustrated is more to the point."
"Because this is not what you expected or wanted out of life?"
"It's because I've never really known what I expected or wanted in life, and now there's this destiny hurtling towards me that I couldn't even conceive of in my wildest dreams and all I can do is hang on."
"Dyson..."
"And I'll tell you what? I'm angry! Angry that a place such as this was kept from us where we could have lived openly instead of in the shadows and with so much divisiveness."
"Dyson…"
"All I do know is this: if this is the life I'm supposed to have then I cannot live it without you. All of you. You guys are my purpose now whatever our destinies may have in store for us."
"As you all are mine." Bo said as they gripped hands again.
The Seneschal entered and bowed.
"Your Royal Highness, it is time." The Seneschal announced.
"That's my cue!" Bo replied as they both stood up. She then kissed Dyson on the cheek.
"I meant what I said. We need to find a way to get you guys over here." Bo added.
"There are some fates even a Princess Royal cannot command." Dyson replied with a smile.
"Just you wait." Bo replied.
"Knock 'em dead!" Dyson replied then stepped back and bowed. Bo smiled and then followed the Seneschal back inside.
Dyson was shaken out of his reverie at the sound of Viceroy Marik Veilliard's voice.
"Grand Ducal Roux-Durant of the Brinari Delegation is demanding a change to the package agreements with the Drustain Delegation." The Viceroy of Quedaerin Dynasty reported when entered the room.
"Now?" Trick asked in frustration.
"Now." Marik replied.
"The Convocation is about to start!" Trick said. "Beverly!" Trick shouted. Beverly entered the room.
"Yes, Your Excellency?"
"Find Rana Chevalier! I need to speak with him now!" Trick directed.
"Yes, Your Excellency." Beverly replied and turned and left.
"Ash Thornwood." Marik greeted with a nod of his head.
"Viceroy Veilliard." Dyson greeted back with a nod of his head. Marik was a Water Fae with gills that went from the top of his ears and ran down to his neck and they open and closed as he breathed. He was a bit shorter than Dyson, dark skinned, had a bald with heavy ridges on both sides that complimented his gills.
"These infantile tactics are wearisome." Trick commented. Beverly walked back into the room.
"Rana Chevalier on the comms."
"Call on!" Trick said into the air.
"Rana McCorrigan! Is there something I can do for you?" Rana Chevalier greeted.
"Grand Ducal Roux-Durant wants to amend the package agreements with the Drustain Delegation." Trick replied.
"And?"
"Like now!" Trick replied. Rana Chevalier let out a breath.
"I will speak with Grand Ducal Roux-Durant at once." Rana Chevalier said.
"Thank you." Trick replied.
"Is there anything else?" Rana Chevalier asked.
"No."
"I take it you plan to join Their Majesties at the Convicium?" Rana Chevalier asked.
"Yes, although my Delegational heads will be seated with the other dynastic Delegational heads at Parliament." Trick replied.
"And the proposed 25th Delegation will be seated with my Dynasty as previously agreed to?" Rana Chevalier asked.
"Nothing has changed." Trick replied.
"Good. See you then Fitzpatrick!" Rana Chevalier said and the comms went off.
"Speaking of which, Beverly!" Trick shouted.
"Yes, Your Excellency?" Beverly replied as she walked back into the room.
"Where's Evony?" Trick asked.
"On her way." Beverly replied
"Of course." Trick said as he put on his jacket. Beverly helped him with his sash and regalia.
"Your Excellency! You look positively dashing!" Evony said as she walked in with Stasio behind her and they both quickly bowed their heads.
"You're late!" Trick shot.
"A girl has to make sure she looks amazing." Evony replied.
"And you do." Trick said. Evony wore a long, slim red dress and train and with a red cape to match, and a golden feathered crown.
"Where's the rest of your entourage?" Trick asked.
"The Elders and their claimed humans are awaiting my arrival at the Parliament of Fae."
"How are the humans doing?" Trick asked.
"Like all cattle, they haven't moved from their pens for fear of being eaten." Evony replied. Trick gave her an exasperated look.
"They're more shell-shocked about this place than anything else. They are like wide-eyed children attending Disneyworld for the first time." Evony added.
"I share their awe." Dyson said.
"And what about Atticus?" Trick asked.
"He will be seated with us." Stasio answered.
"Good." Trick replied.
"Where's Bo?" Evony asked.
"I will be joining her at the Convicium shortly." Trick replied.
"And the good Doctor?" Evony asked.
"She has to work." Dyson said.
"Are you kidding? On this day of days?" Evony asked sounding somewhat put out.
"Fear not, all of Faedom will be tuning in to include Dr. Lewis." Trick assured then walked up to Evony. "Are you ready?"
"I was born ready." Evony replied full of confidence. Trick smiled then turned to Marik.
"Please escort the Grand Ducal and her staff to Parliament and seat her delegational staff with our Dynasty." Trick directed.
"Rana Chevalier will be offended. That runs counter to what was agreed to at the last meeting of the Tetrarch, and reaffirmed here just now." Marik reminded.
"Rana Chevalier seeks to capitalize on Evony's presence as it relates to The Queen and is using her family's affiliation under his Dynasty as justification, but the proposed 25th delegation comes from my plane and so she and her Delegational staff will be seated with my Dynasty. On this day of days." Trick replied.
"I love it when Dynasties fight over me." Evony said. Trick offered a brief smile then turned to Dyson.
"I will see you later." Trick said.
"Your Excellency." Dyson replied and then they all bowed as Trick turned and left the room.
The Convicium was a golden colored, half oval-shaped building. Given all things considered in the Presidium it was average in size, about as long as a football field and 100 stories in height. While the Convocation itself was The Queen's idea the Convicium itself had been around since the advent of the Realm to bring it together in times of emergency. The Queen Consort thought it good political theatre to open the Convocation with a grand ceremony, and what a better way to do that than with the Convicium.
Bo and Trick watched within the outer quadrangle of the Convicium as The Queen entered followed by The Queen Consort. Regent Saladin and Grand Primus Cheles, dressed in their Knights of the Guard regalia, Bostanji Leonhard in his full regalia as head of the Regnant Guard, Illia, the Acharyani of the Monadori Sanctuary, Their Serene Highnesses Jock and Atia, the Seer of the Monadori Sanctuary and a group of Adherents all followed behind The Queen Consort. The Queen's party was followed by a large contingent of the Knights of the Guard in their full regalia followed by a contingent of the Regnant Guard. Bo noticed that Their Serene Highnesses Elena and Ariella were at the forefront dressed in their Knights of the Guard regalia.
"I forgot the Knights served as an Honor Guard to The Queen throughout the Convocation. Impressive." Bo said.
"You will see a great many dignitaries serving as her Honor Guard over the course of the Convocation. Provided they do not kill one another." Trick informed. Trick's last line made Bo chuckle.
"I see they are carrying the Athenaeum. What is that about?" Bo asked.
"Not sure. Perhaps out of symbolism." Trick replied.
The Queen looked stunning. She wore a tight, form-fitting, V-neck white dress with that nearly went down to her navel. The dress had a five-foot train with a collar brim that flared and towered a foot over her head. The dress itself had intricate, monogram symbols sewn all over it and beads and pearls hung off the dress, and four-inch white stilettos. When The Queen approached everyone extended their courtesies.
"You Majesty, you look stunning." Bo said after The Queen acknowledged their courtesies.
"As do you." The Queen replied. Bo blushed. Bo also wore a white, smooth form-fitting dress with a single monogram that covered her chest. She wore her hair in a high pony tail with long pearl-drop earrings, and four-inch white stilettos.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Bo said.
"What you are about to experience is something very special made even more special by recovery of The Athenaeum." The Queen said then looked to Jock and Atia.
"I understand, Your Majesty." Bo replied.
"Are we ready?" The Queen asked Jock and Atia.
"Yes, Your Majesty." Jock replied then turned to Atia who held the Athenaeum in her hands. They both led the rest of the party into the inner Sanctum of the Convicium.
The room itself was dark with a raised platform at its center with the only light emanating from the roof that was opened to the evening sky.
The contingent that escorted The Queen fell into four concentric circles around the raised platform. Bo was placed within the innermost circle along with Trick and the Acharyani, Their Serene Highnesses Jock and Atia, the Seer of the Monadori Sanctuary and the Adherents formed the rest of their circle. The second ring was composed of Their Serene Highnesses Elena and Ariella, Bashan and Deputy Bashan respectively of the Knights of the Guard, and a contingent of the Knights of the Guard. The third ring comprised Bostanji Leonhard and the contingent of the Regnant Guard. The fourth ring comprised The Queen Consort, Regent Saladin and Grand Primus Cheles, and a mixture of both the Knights of the Guard and the Regnant Guard.
Jock and Atia stepped up onto the raised platform, placed the Athenaeum on the podium at the center of the platform. They opened it to a specific page and then stepped back down and resumed their places within the concentric circle. The Seer, escorted by the Acharyani and an Adherent, ascended the platform then handed her staff to the Adherent and the Acharyani handed her an amulet while the other Adherents began chanting all around them.
The Queen then ascended the platform and faced the Seer, bent her head down so the Seer could place the amulet around her neck. The Seer bowed her head and the Queen followed suit. The chanting went on for several minutes. When the Seer raised her head the orbs of her eyes were completely white. The Adherent handed the Seer back her staff and then both the Adherent and the Acharyani took a couple steps back.
The roof of the Convicium peeled itself back even further to the point where the universal evening sky seemed to envelope the room. Both the Adherent and the Acharyani then descended from the platform and resumed their places within the concentric circle. The Seer started to chant as she slowly raised her staff into the air. Suddenly a bolt of white lightning struck the staff, making its tip glow with white fire. The Seer then brought down the staff hard as she chanted and the white flame swirled around her and The Queen. The amulet around the Queen's neck began to glow.
"The celestial heavens radiate upon us!" The Seer announced.
The Queen used her left hand and placed it on the open page of the Athenaeum as the chanting around them increased in volume. The Queen then bowed her head for a few moments and when she raised it the orbs of her eyes were completely white.
"We are here!" The Queen said.
"Who are 'we'?" Bo whispered.
"Past Regnants. They are joined with her now." Trick replied.
"The same ones when I was Recognized?" Bo asked. Trick raised his eyebrows in response.
Then The Queen did something that surprised everyone in the room. She put her arms down, turned and looked at Bo with her white eyes.
"Your Majesty?" was all Bo could say, she didn't know what else to say. The intensity of the Queen's glare was unnerving for Bo.
"Step inside the circle." The Queen directed.
Bo looked at Trick whose eyes were wide with concern but nodded his head. Bo looked back up at The Queen and proceeded up the steps. When she reached the top of the platform she looked around again at all the eyes staring at her, a mixture of curiosity and disbelief. Bo looked back at The Queen and stepped inside the circle.
The Queen then spoke in a combination of voices clearly not her own:
"The One who shall reign
The One who shall rule
Life
Death
Eternal
Intended
Anointed
Sovereign"
Bo quickly turned and looked at Trick whose face was pensive but he remained steadfast. Bo turned back to The Queen who grasped Bo's hands and they were suddenly engulfed in white flames. Reflexively, everyone stepped back and covered their eyes blinded by the light. Within the flame The Queen spoke in a combined voice:
In Darkness, you will lose yourself
In War, you will see yourself
In Chaos, you will understand yourself
In Fire, you will find yourself
On Bloodied Seas Rising
On Cobalt Skies Rising
On Obsidian Wings Rising
On Racing Winds Rising
Until in Destiny, you fulfill yourself
Then as quickly as they were engulfed in flames the flames died down. When Bo looked at Trick the orbs of her eyes were also white. Trick met her gaze with an even more pensive look but did not move.
Not missing a beat The Seer then raised her staff and struck the ground again and a white flame blinded the room again. When the blinding light cleared the walls of the Sanctum had receded entirely to reveal not only the Fae watching from Parliament but scores and scores of Fae as far as the eye could see in all directions. Thunderous cheers and applause followed when they saw The Queen. Bo eyes went wide at the sight of it all and it dawned on her that all of Faedom formed the fifth concentric circle.
"How is this even possible?" Bo asked incredulous.
"What you are witnessing is the perfect intersection of the planes where all Fae, everywhere are present at one specific point in time." The Queen replied.
All the Fae, everywhere went to one knee and bowed before their Queen.
"Rise!" The Queen commanded. Everyone rose.
Two Adherents stepped up the platform and escorted the Seer back down and they resumed their positions within the first concentric circle.
The Queen lifted her right arm into the air and the platform rose towards the open sky.
"Bo!" Trick called out softly as the platform rose high into the air.
The platform reached a point in the sky and then it stopped. The Queen and Bo looked like they were standing amidst the celestial heavens. The Queen then raised both her arms into the air.
"I summon the Realm!" The Queen declared.
The monograms all along The Queen's dress started to glow as bright as the stars above them then a swirl of white smoke appeared like thick clouds in the heavens and then they quickly parted and revealed a group of Fae.
"Your Majesty, the Rumas Dominion have come as commanded." The group announced then they disappeared and then reappeared as a delegation at the entrance of Parliament and paraded into the chamber to applause as they took their seats.
Then one monogram disappeared off The Queen's dress and then the swirl of clouds flashed again and another group of Fae appeared.
"Your Majesty, the Avatuary Expanse have come as commanded." The group announced then they disappeared and then reappeared as a delegation at the entrance of Parliament and paraded into the chamber to applause as they took their seats.
Then another monogram disappeared off The Queen's dress and then the swirl of clouds flashed again and another group of Fae appeared.
"Your Majesty, the Eqquros Nexus have come as commanded." The group announced then they disappeared and then reappeared as a delegation at the entrance of Parliament and paraded into the chamber to applause as they took their seats.
Then another monogram disappeared off The Queen's dress and then the swirl of clouds flashed again and another group of Fae appeared.
"Your Majesty, the Iasharoth Moons the have come as commanded." The group announced then they disappeared and then reappeared as a delegation at the entrance of Parliament and paraded into the chamber to applause as they took their seats.
The litany of introductions went on: The Seas of Kaennimos, The Everday Forests, The Delusian Winds, The Baeccidell Protectorate, The Grasogus Territories, The Planes of Radirah, The Shrouded Domain and so on until one introduction made Bo take notice.
"Your Majesty, the Court of Dead have come as commanded." The group announced.
"Court of the Dead?" Bo repeated to the surprise of the Realm.
"Yes, Your Royal Highness." The Court of the Dead replied.
"Cool!" Bo replied. That elicited a round of chuckles and then applause which made Trick smile and relax. The Court of the Dead bowed their heads and then disappeared from view. The Court of the Dead reappeared at the entrance of Parliament and they paraded into the chamber to applause as they took their seats.
The introductions continued for another three hours until the last of monograms disappeared from The Queen's dress. Suddenly, the color of The Queen's dress changed from white to an Egyptian Blue as The Queen lowered the platform back down to floor of the Sanctum. Then the large monogram pattern on Bo's chest began to glow and vibrate. Bo looked down at it then back up at The Queen.
"It is for you to summon the Human Plane to the Parliament of Fae." The Queen replied.
Bo looked at Trick who nodded with a smile and then she scanned the expanse of the crowds.
"I summon the Human Plane of existence to stand before the Parliament of Fae in petition for Inclusion as the 25th Delegation!" Bo announced.
The Parliamentary entrance opened and Evony walked in first, not in Human form but in her true Fae form as a Leanan Sidhe. Her hair was no longer black but a blondish-red. A bright, orangish-colored feathered crown adorned her head with gold tinsel that ran down both sides of her head to her backside. Her ears elvin-shaped, the shape of her eyes were longer and sharper with eyelashes to compliment, and the color of her eyes were grayish-black. As she walked down the platform aisle she threw off her red cape and unhooked her red dress to reveal a reddish breastplate that looked more like armor than anything else. Her abdomen was exposed with an ornate belt that looped her waist and red tentacles that flowed from it like a vine-like skirt with red heels on. Evony looking stunning. Her appearance even made Bo take a breath. She was met with applause as she was followed in by Stasio, Dyson, a contingent of Elder Fae and their respective claimed Humans.
"Your Majesty, the Human Plane have come as invited to submit our petition for Inclusion as the 25th Delegation before the Parliament of Fae." Evony replied.
"We welcome Grand Ducal Evony Marquis and her Delegation to the Presidium." Bo greeted then looked around. "Who shall sponsor this invitation?" Bo asked.
"I, Rana Fitzpatrick McCorrigan of the Quedaerin Dynasty sponsor the petition for Inclusion." Trick answered.
Rana Chevalier quickly rose from his seat.
"Rana Chevalier?" Bo prompted.
"I, Rana Chevalier of the LauDessar Dynasty second the petition for Inclusion and welcome home Grand Ducal Marquis to her rightful Dynasty, the LauDessar Dynasty."
That statement made Antony roll his eyes slightly and then he stood up.
"I, Rana Prescotti of the Prescotti Dynasty also second the invitation, and welcome home Grand Ducal Marquis to the Presidium."
Then Rana Edmund Atherstone stood.
"I, Rana Atherstone of the Tulach Dynasty also second the invitation and welcome home Grand Ducal Marquis to the Presidium."
"The petition by Human Plane for Inclusion as the 25th Delegation before the Parliament of Fae has been seconded by the Tetrarch. Are there any objections?" Bo called out. No one said a word.
"I take it we are saving the debate for another day, then?" Bo quipped which made the Realm smile and chuckle. Bo then addressed the Realm:
"Today marks a pivotal moment not only in the history of the Realm, but also in the history of Fae who have had to live their lives on a plane hidden, frightened and divided for fear of ridicule, manipulation, experimentation, and exploitation. I was raised by humans, but neither I nor my human family knew or understood what I was, that led to me being ostracized and on the run. When I stumbled upon the community of Fae the reception was equally as cold, judging, cruel and divided because I did not know or understand what I was, and was also ostracized from their world because I refused to choose a side. It was because I refused to choose a side that found my forged family of both humans and Fae, forged of blood, of bonds, of history, and through them I've come to find myself. The intent of this petition is not simply about seeking inclusion but through it transparency and through that transparency unification of both Fae and Humans so no one need live in the dark anymore, but honestly and freely out in the open. As The Princess Royal, I am proud to stand here before the entire Fae Realm on this day of days to advocate for such a future."
When Bo finished the Realm applauded.
"Taoiseach Sandalli how will the proposed 25th Delegation be seated?" Bo asked. Taoiseach Sandalli was about to answer when Viceroy Veilliard quickly stood up followed by Rana Chevalier.
"The honor of seating the proposed 25th Delegation falls to the Quedaerin Dynasty." Viceroy Veilliard answered.
"That was not what was agreed to, Viceroy! Since Grand Ducal Marquis hails from the LauDessar Dynasty the honor falls to us!" Rana Chevalier challenged.
"May I speak Taoiseach Sandalli?" ask Primus Felix Andathis, Primus for the Pillar of Law as he rose from his seat.
"Primus Andathis, please." Taoiseach Sandalli prompted.
"According to Fae law, the duty belongs to the Parliament of Fae." Primus Andathis informed.
"How so?" Rana Chevalier challenged.
"I am curious as well. It has always been permitted that any plane or delegation seeking Inclusion has the honor of being seated with a sponsoring Dynasty." Rana Atherstone added.
"That is correct." Primus Andathis replied.
"Then what's the issue?" Rana Prescotti challenged.
"The Delegation requesting Inclusion are Humans, not Fae." One could hear quite a few collective sighs.
"Never in the history of the Fae Realm has there ever been a non-Fae delegation seeking Inclusion. Until the Delegation has been formally accepted and inducted into the Presidium they cannot yet be seated with a Dynasty."
"This is outrageous!" Rana Chevalier protested.
"I agree!" Trick piped in.
"So where are they to be seated, Primus Andathis? Outside on the grass?" Rana Prescotti asked to chuckles.
"No, Your Excellency. They can be seated as a provisional constituency of the Parliament of Fae itself." Primus Andathis replied.
"Primus, never has the Parliament of Fae ever served in such a capacity." Taoiseach Sandalli replied.
"There are always firsts, Taoiseach." Primus Andathis replied.
"A Grand Ducal? Treated like a third-rate ward of the Realm?" Rana Chevalier protested.
"It is not as bad as all that, Duvall. We have an answer." Rana Atherstone chastised then looked to Primus Andathis with narrowed eyes. "For now."
The Queen stepped forward.
"Primus Andathis, if I recall, never has the Tetrarch served in such a capacity as well, am I correct?"
"Yes, Your Majesty." Primus Andathis replied.
"Then can I assume the law would permit the proposed 25th Delegation to be seated as a provisional constituency of the Tetrarch?"
"Yes, Your Majesty, but..." Primus Andathis replied.
"But what, Primus?" The Queen prompted.
"That would be highly irregular, Your Majesty." Primus Andathis replied.
"And why is that?" The Queen said voice slightly raised. Primus Andathis swallowed hard.
"Because…" Primus Andathis hesitated.
"Because of what?" The Queen prompted more firmly.
"Because they're Humans." Primus Andathis softly replied.
"Led by Fae!" The Queen thundered in her combined voice.
"Yes, Your Majesty! Forgive me, Your Majesty! I did not mean to be inconsiderate. I only meant to clarify the law and historical practice." Primus Andathis replied and bowed his head. The Queen then looked to the Tetrarch.
"Does the Tetrarch accept the proposed 25th Delegation to be seated as a provisional constituency of the Tetrarch as the law permits?"
"Yes, Your Majesty!" The four Ranas replied in near unison.
"Taoiseach Sandalli." The Queen prompted.
"Grand Ducal Marquis, please take your seat with the Tetrarch." Taoiseach Sandalli directed.
"Thank you, Taoiseach Sandalli. Thank you, Your Majesty." Evony replied as she curtsied. The Queen acknowledged it with a bow of her head.
"Grand Ducal Marquis, welcome home!" The Queen said in her combined voice. The Realm applauded as Evony and her Delegation took their seats with the Tetrarch.
"As with every Convocation it is great honor for me to see the Realm come together. As with every Convocation we have a lot to discuss and a lot to do. Let us commence our work in the spirit in which the Convocation is called: in unity." The Queen said to thunderous applause.
The Realm then stood on their feet as The Queen turned and faced The Queen Consort and the Realm followed suit. The Queen then extended a formal curtsey where she extended one foot forward and then outstretched her arms and bowed. Everyone in the Realm followed suit. The Queen Consort blushed.
"Thank you, my Queen, my life, my love." The Queen Consort said. The Queen rose and looked to the Seer. The Seer then raised her staff into the air and the Realm stood and offered the following blessing:
"In this summoning of the Realm let us embrace in love and in honor, let us rejoice in our abundant blessings. Let us walk together, live together in devotion so that we and our lands are blessed with tranquility, prosperity, fertility, and peace. Through our Sovereign may we be blessed, may we always prosper, and may our lives last long throughout our sunrises and sunsets. Blessings!"
To wit the Realm replied: "May our hand be blessed, and may we always prosper. Peace and protection be upon us all!"
"May the Convocation begin!" The Queen announced. Applause then thundered throughout the Realm as the walls to the Sanctum of the Convicium rose and enclosed the room again.
The room went dark for several minutes and when the lights came back on both The Queen's eyes and Bo were back to normal. The Queen went up to the Athenaeum and closed the book and offered a quiet blessing before Jock and Atia took it away.
"Wow! That was an experience that defies explanation." Bo finally said as Trick came up next to her.
"It is quite the sight." The Queen Consort said as she approached.
"Your Majesty, there are no words to describe what you put together here." Bo complimented The Queen Consort.
"I agree. She is quite amazing." The Queen added.
"You have already flattered me as you do every Convocation." The Queen Consort replied.
"It is well deserved." The Queen said.
"Well, Lauren will one day have to take on the same responsibilities as your Companion in Rule." The Queen Consort said to Bo.
"Please don't tell her that. She will take the children and run back to the County."Bo replied. Everyone chuckled.
"Your Majesty, what was that earlier with the Regnants? All that rising talk." Bo asked.
"That was a nice speech you gave. Concise, direct, heartfelt. Most certainly set the foundation for the debates to come." The Queen deflected to heads nodding.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. Although it looks like we are going to have quite the fight on our hands." Bo replied.
"That display was gentle, but you handled yourself ably, Your Royal Highness." Grand Primus Cheles said.
"Yeah, until The Queen had to jump in for the save." Bo replied.
"It's all part of the learning process. Well, we all should head back so we can change for the banquet, and get to Evony before she decides to melt someone." The Queen said to chuckles everywhere. The Queen Consort took her by the arm.
"Shall we?" The Queen Consort prompted. Then she and The Queen left the Sanctum followed by everyone else.
Trick touched Bo on the arm which caused her to stop and he waited a few moments until the rest of the party were aways ahead of them.
"What happened at the end there?" Trick asked.
"You didn't see it this time?"
"No."
"It was poetic but they said:
In Darkness, you will lose yourself
In War, you will see yourself
In Chaos, you will understand yourself
In Fire, you will find yourself
On Bloodied Seas Rising
On Cobalt Skies Rising
On Obsidian Wings Rising
On Racing Winds Rising
Until in Destiny, you fulfill yourself"
"What does that mean?" Trick asked confused.
"Have no idea. I'm surprised I remember any of it." Bo replied. Trick shook his head.
"Maybe it will realize itself one day." Trick said.
"With our luck, no doubt."
