"Your Majesties! You accord us the greatest honor!" Pasi said as he, his wife, Margareta, and restaurant staff greeted the Ruling Couple and their entourage with extended courtesies.

Accompanying them were Bo and Lauren, all the Ruling Children followed by their Bases, Regent Saladin, and the Seneschal. Also, Trick, Eva, Evony, Grand Primus Cheles, Primus Levasseur, and Helen's siblings: Lillian, Aline, and Bearnard along with Ari's siblings: Yammy, Chione, and Masilo. Clara Maestas of the Quedaerin Dynasty, and Josefina Callamasse stood nearby as the Knight's Honor Guard this evening.

"It has been too long Pasi!" The Queen greeted.

"We have been remiss." The Queen Consort added.

"Your Majesties, the responsibilities of the Realm take precedence, but as Pasi said you do us the greatest honor, and we're glad you're back." Margareta replied.

"Some of the senior aristocratic families will be joining us here shortly." The Queen said.

"And we are prepared." Pasi replied then directed everyone to follow him to the back of the restaurant, onto the dock patio and towards the ornately decorated tables that had baskets of a unique food that some in the entourage picked up and stared at.

"What's this?" Lillian asked.

"A favorite of The Princess Royal's called popcorn!" Margareta replied. "During her last visit Her Royal Highness provided us with a list of her favorite flavors and we incorporated some of own."

"Which one has the cheese and season salt?" Lauren asked.

"Over here, Milady." Margareta replied. Lauren bee-lined it for that one, and several in the entourage followed her out of curiosity. Bearnard tugged at Maxima and together went off taste-testing each of the flavors at the tables which spurred more of the entourage to do the same.

"The popcorn has been a hit, albeit with most of our customers." Pasi said.

"Most customers?" Bo queried.

"It's a bit harsh on some diets. Makes a few customers rather nauseous." Pasi replied.

"That's a first." Bo commented.

"The appetizer table is over there." Margareta said as she pointed to a table near the dock railings which caused some more of the entourage to peel off in that direction.

"So, what's for dinner, Pasi? Another Human dish?" Masilo asked.

"We were wondering if Your Majesty would do the honors?" Pasi asked The Queen. The Queen grinned broadly.

"It would be my pleasure!" The Queen replied then walked up closer to Pasi and Margareta, "Very clever of you." They both smiled. The Queen then looked over to Jock. "Care to join me?" Jock smiled and quickly joined his Mummy as they both walked over to the dock railings, bounced down the stairs, and strolled onto the beach. As they approached the edge of the sea they both shifted into their respective Ranoruk forms: Ari in her Atlas Bear and Jock into his Ripper Minotaur and dove into the sea, the splash of which nearly washed over the dock patio.

"They're fishing for our dinner?" Bo asked.

"Ari loves it! And Pasi, the senior families will be honored. Incisive of you to recommend it." The Queen Consort replied. Pasi and Margareta smiled.

"Your Majesty, we will go and prepare the kitchens for when The Queen returns with her catches. In the interim, please enjoy yourselves." Pasi said. The Queen Consort smiled and then Pasi and Margareta turned and left.

"So, while Ari is fishing shall we mingle before the some of the senior families arrive?" Helen prompted.

"Sure!" Bo replied. They grabbed a few appetizers and then walked over to Antony who ravenously ate a plateful of appetizers, wafting it down with beer while Rimma and Elena looked on.

"You do realize there will be actual food served later." Elena poked as eh noshed on popcorn.

"I haven't eaten all day." Antony replied. Helen went and stood next to her son.

"How come?" Helen asked as she lightly ran her fingers through her son's hair.

"Pressing meetings." Antony replied.

"Sometimes, I think we put too much on you all." Helen mused.

"It's the Convocation, Mother. Lots to be done." Antony replied.

"Still." Helen mused. Antony stopped eating and looked up at his mother.

"Do not worry." Antony gently assured.

"You should always make time to eat something." Helen said.

"Yes, Mother." Antony replied softly.

"Your Serene Highness, how did the Kraken move go?" Trick asked Antony after he, Eva, Atia Aline, Chione, and Evony walked up to the table.

"Extremely well, Your Excellency. Kenzi was present along with a few other Humans. It was quite interesting to watch their reactions to a Fae they thought was only a myth. They were even more shocked when she spoke." Antony replied.

"Spoke?" Bo prompted.

"Telepathically. Basically, to say she was glad to return home." Antony replied.

"And the Human shipping lanes will be forever thankful." Trick said.

"She mentioned something about that too." Antony replied.

"I just bet. She was a veritable menace during the early days of shipping. Think she took some pleasure in that to be quite honest." Trick said.

"How's Agent Malikov?" Chione asked. "Did your second date go well?"

"She's well, and how do you know about that?" Antony asked.

"Oh, that was a party line chat." Bo replied which caused some of the ladies around the table to giggle.

"Do tell for those of us whom missed the conversation!" prodded Aline.

"We went to a sporting event called the UFC." Antony informed.

"I take it this is some sort of popular event?" Rimma asked.

"It's mixed martial arts cage-fighting. And yes, it's one of the most popular sports on our plane." Bo replied.

"And what did you do afterwards?" Aline asked.

"I'm sure people don't want to hear all the details, Aunt Aline." Antony replied.

"I do!" poked Aline.

"We ate dinner, and then I returned here." Antony replied.

"What novel human food did you eat?" Aline asked.

"Hot dogs." Antony replied.

"Is that literal?" Aline asked. That made several of them giggle.

"No. It's a small, cylindrical shaped meat placed in between bread. There was a cook who was selling these…hot dogs in a cart nearby, so we grabbed some and ate them at a nearby table along the sidewalk." Antony replied.

"Simple, yet intimate." Aline replied.

"It was." Antony replied with a smile.

"Changing the subject, I'm sure to Antony's delight, how are the reviews coming along for the 25th Delegation?" Yammy asked Evony.

"We have our Resolutions meeting in a few weeks. We should know then what the overall recommendation will be." Evony replied. Then the Seneschal appeared.

"Your Majesty, the senior aristocracy and extended guests have arrived." The Seneschal informed.

"Good. Please escort them back here." The Queen Consort informed.

"Yes, Your Majesty." The Seneschal replied, bowed and then turned and left.

"Everyone!" The Queen Consort announced. "Our guests have arrived!"

Everyone gathered around The Queen Consort as the Seneschal reappeared and took up a position next to the pathway entrance. Regent Saladin went and stood next to The Queen Consort, but one step behind her, and motioned Bo up to stand on the other side of her.

"Your Majesty! Your Excellencies! Esteemed guests! Announcing the presence of the senior aristocratic families!" Then two Fae stepped into view.

"His Supreme Excellency, Rajah Kadian Phares of the Planes of Radirah accompanied by Prime Representative Chandaa Tammam!" The Seneschal announced. The announced guests came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Your Supreme Excellency!" greeted The Queen Consort.

"Your Majesty!" Rajah Phares returned then looked around. "Her Majesty?"

"Fishing." The Queen Consort replied and then pointed off into the direction of the sea. Rajah Phares let loose a smile.

"Honored, Your Majesty!" Rajah Phares.

"Chandaa, so good you could come." The Queen Consort greeted.

"I am honored, Your Majesty." She replied then they both moved off.

"Their Supreme Excellencies, Rajah Nicéphore and Océane Callamasse from the Stavialon Plane. Accompanied by their daughter Isara Callamasse!" The Seneschal announced. The announced guests came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome!" greeted The Queen Consort.

"Your Majesty!" Nicéphore greeted then both he and his wife, Océane looked about.

"Her Majesty?" Nicéphore prompted.

"Fishing. Out there." The Queen Consort replied as she tilted her head.

"Her Majesty accords us the greatest honor!" Océane said.

"And enjoying herself immensely, I'm sure." Nicéphore added.

"Josie! You always look stunning in your dress Knights' uniform." Océane said.

"Thanks sis!" Josefina replied.

"Isara! It's so good to see you again. Look at you! You are just as beautiful as ever!" The Queen Consort greeted.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Isara replied as her eyes scanned the group and settled on Emilia.

"Your Serene Highness. Lovely to see you again." Isara greeted.

"You as well." Emilia replied with a smile.

"I look forward to the environmental conference later this month on Stavialon." Isara said.

"As do I." Emilia replied.

"Isara is in the final stage of her training with the Knights of the Guard." Océane proudly informed.

"Congratulations. Perhaps, I shall pay a visit to the Knights' Compound, so we can engage in a sparring session?" Regent Saladin offered. Isara suddenly paled.

"I...I would be honored, Regent Saladin." Isara nervously replied.

"Regent Saladin teases." Rimma answered. The color suddenly returned to Isara's face.

"Congratulations Isara." Regent Saladin said.

"Thank you, Your Excellency." Isara replied. Then they all moved off.

"Their Excellencies, Esteves and Sabela Dabalos of the Prescotti Dynasty!"

The Seneschal announced.

"You haven't yet met the Paramount Grand Ducal of the Prescotti Homelands, have you?" The Queen Consort asked Bo and Lauren.

"No, we haven't." Bo answered. "Which patronage do they represent?"

"Mine." Emilia replied from behind. "The city of Diadin. Eudora is the senior Delegation within the Homelands."

Esteves and Sabela Dabalos came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome!" greeted The Queen Consort.

"Your Majesty!" Esteves greeted then both he and his wife, Sabela looked about.

"Her Majesty?" Esteves asked.

"Fishing." The Queen Consort answered and she pointed towards the sea.

"Never misses a chance." Sabela replied then turned to Bo and Lauren. "Your Royal Highness, Milady. So good to finally meet you in person."

"We as well." Bo replied.

"We're looking forward to your visit of the Homelands after your Installation." Sabela said.

"We as well." Bo replied.

"We are honored that it would also be your first time in rule." Sabela said.

"Excuse me?" Bo replied as threw a slightly panicked look at The Queen Consort.

"Welcome again!" The Queen Consort quickly said. After Esteves and Sabela moved off.

"What was that?" Bo asked again.

"We will discuss that later." The Queen Consort replied. Bo and Lauren exchanged wide-eyes

"Their Excellencies, Yanis and Yvette Gadon of the LauDessar Dynasty!" They came into view and extended their courtesies.

"They are the Paramount Grand Ducals of the LauDessar Dynasty. Their patronage city is Thenesia, and their Delegation is Orlina." Regent Saladin informed Bo and Lauren.

"Welcome!" greeted The Queen Consort.

"Your Majesty!" Yanis greeted then he and Yvette looked about.

"Her Majesty is fishing." The Queen Consort replied.

"What she loves best." Yanis replied.

"After farming, and sailing, of course." Yvette added.

"You know her well." The Queen Consort replied. They smiled and moved off. The Queen Consort whispered to those around her, "I'm going to be saying 'Ari is fishing' for a bit here."

"Their Excellencies, Jonty and Lavina Heatherington of the Tulach Dynasty. Accompanied by their daughter Claire Heatherington." The Seneschal announced. Bo quickly glanced at Elena who looked as if the Realm fell on top of her. They came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome to you all!" greeted The Queen Consort.

"Your Majesty!" Jonty greeted then he, Lavina, and Claire looked about.

"Her Majesty?" Lavina asked.

"Fishing!" Bo answered which earned her a quick smile from Helen.

"I bet she's happy." Lavina replied.

"Hello, Your Serene Highness." Claire greeted Elena.

"Claire. Good you could join us." Elena greeted.

"Me as well." Claire replied. Then and her parents moved off.

"Their Excellencies, Lisandro and Juliette Sellecchia of the Tulach Dynasty!" The Seneschal announced. The announced guests came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome!" The Queen greeted.

"Thank you, You Majesty!"

"Ari is fishing but will join us shortly." The Queen said.

"I should join her!" Lisandro offered.

"I'm sur she would love that!" The Queen replied as she nodded in the direction of the sea.

"Don't be too long my dear." Juliette reminded.

"Of course, my dear." Lisandro replied then bounded for the stairs towards the sea as he approached the water, he stripped off his clothing which earned smiles from everyone as he dived into the water and disappeared.

"We all realize we just sent a pea to join its pod right?" Juliette said.

"Ari knows she cannot be all day." The Queen replied.

"Let us hope." Juliette said then smiled and moved off.

"Their Excellencies, Pranit and Mrinalika Khanna of the Prescotti Dynasty!" The Seneschal announced. Pranit and Mri came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome Mri! Welcome Pranit!" The Queen Consort greeted.

"Your Majesty!" Then they both looked around.

"Her Majesty?" Pranit asked.

"Fishing." The Queen Consort replied.

"For our dinner?" Pranit asked.

"Yes." The Queen Consort replied.

"Glad I wore loose clothing." Pranit answered which made people chuckle.

"His Excellency, Traust Maestas of the Quedaerin Dynasty!" The Seneschal announced.

Traust came into view with a troubled look on his face but extended his courtesies.

"Traust? Is everything alright?" The Queen Consort asked.

"Your Majesty! Forgive me." Traust answered then looked around. "Her Majesty?"

"Fishing for our dinner." The Queen Consort replied.

"Hmp! I need a drink!" Traust replied.

"Traust? What's wrong?" This came from his wife Clara who stood nearby as Honor Guard.

"I just came from a filthy meeting with both the Brinari and Assions Delegations." Traust replied then looked over at Trick. "Rana McCorrigan, we need to talk!"

"Of course." Trick replied. "This way." Trick waved.

"I'll go with you." Evony said and moved off.

"So will I." Primus Levassuer added.

"I'll join them as well." Added Julian.

"Me too." Added Rimma. They watched them move off to a far corner.

"Boy, that must have been some meeting." Bo noted.

"His Supreme Excellency, Rajah Hesiodos Kalidor of the Empyrean Inferno Plane!" The Seneschal announced. Rajah Kalidor came into view and extended a deep bow.

"Welcome Hesi!" The Queen Consort greeted.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. You look amazing as always." Rajah Kalidor replied.

"Thank you, Hesi!" The Queen Consort replied. Rajah Kalidor looked around.

"The Queen?" Rajah Kalidor asked.

"Out fishing for dinner." The Queen Consort replied.

"I am honored." Rajah Kalidor replied.

"Ari would be honored if you joined her." The Queen Consort replied.

"Are you sure?" Rajah Kalidor hesitated.

"I am." The Queen Consort replied.

Rajah Kalidor bowed again and then went off towards the sea and shifted into 50 - foot tall humanoid with scales and extended horns and wandered into the sea and dove in.

"Your Majesty? Are you sure that was wise?" Yammy asked.

"It would be good for them." The Queen replied.

"For them or for you?" Lillian asked.

"Both." The Queen Consort replied.

"Their Excellencies, Victorien and Silana Lambert of the LauDessar Dynasty!" The Seneschal announced.

"Victorien and Silana are cousins of Ryan's parents." Trick informed. Victorien and Silana came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome to you both!" greeted The Queen Consort.

"Your Majesty!" Silana greeted then she and Victorien looked about.

"Her Majesty is out fishing. Jock, Lisandro, and Hesi are with her." The Queen Consort answered.

"I look forward to all the fish they will catch!" Victorien replied.

"This is The Princess Royal and Dr. Lauren Lewis." The Queen Consort introduced. Salina went over to Bo and Lauren.

"It is a pleasure to finally meet friends of Ryan's." Salina greeted. "How is he?"

"He's doing great! He helps us run our operations back home." Bo replied.

"I understand one of your children is named after him?" Salina asked.

"Yes, and in many ways he's just like him." Lauren replied.

"We would love to meet him." Salina said.

"I will make sure it happens." Bo replied. Silana and Victorien moved off.

"Their Excellecies, Maxence and Joceline de Morvois of the LauDessar Dynasty. Accompanied by their daughter Her Excellency Theodosia de Morvois!" The Seneschal announced. Bo glanced at Antony whose turn it was for his face to drop.

"Mother! What are they doing here?" Antony challenged.

"Your Mummy felt it was important." The Queen Consort replied. They came into view and extended their courtesies.

"Welcome!"

"Your Majesty!" Joceline greeted then she, Maxence, and Theo looked about.

"Ari is fishing with Jock, Lisandro, and Hesi," Bo answered.

"Rajah Kalidor? Interesting." Joceline noted.

"Joceline." Maxence gently warned.

"I was just commenting my dear." Joceline noted.

"Antony." Theo greeted.

"Theo." Antony returned.

"Lovely to see you again." Theo said then looked around. "I don't see your new friend?"

"She's on assignment." Bo answered for him.

"Of course. Well, that will give us time to talk, then." Theo said then smiled as she and her family moved off.

"This is going to be fun." Bo said.

The Seneschal bowed marking the end of the introductions, so Bo turned her attention back to the conversation in the corner with Traust who was being quite animated.

"I wanna see what that's about." Bo said.

"Good. I need to huddle with Mri, Emilia, and Dr. Lewis here on the status of their proposals before the Council of Healers' Special Commission." The Queen Consort replied then motioned Lauren, Mri and Emilia to follow her.

"I just don't understand it!" Traust said frustrated. "Why would anyone ever agree to that?"

"And Josse agreed to all of this?" Evony asked.

"Yes!" Traust thundered. "It's mad! It's a position that has implications for decades if not centuries!"

"I'll talk to him." Evony replied.

"I don't think that'll help at all." Traust said and then exhaled. "It's times like these where Supremacy would be a good thing."

"I don't think forcing a solution is the answer. If that is what Josse wants for his Delegation then he's doing it in their best interests." Theo chimed in, and who had since joined the conversation along with Grand Ducal Yanis Gadon.

"Granted! But not when a decision could have long-lasting negative impacts. Sometimes Delegations have to be saved from themselves!" Traust countered.

"Says the one who disagree with the decision." Theo replied. Traust looked at Yanis.

"We know what the Vrabereaux Delegation thinks, but what about your Delegatio ?"

"If this is what I think this is then yes, the Orlina Delegation has discussed it and are very open to it." Yanis replied. Traust looked to Trick.

"Your Excellency! This will impact our Dynasty greatly! We must involve ourselves!" Traust implored.

"As much as I agree with you, Grand Ducal de Morvois is also right. If the Assions believe this decision is in their best interests, then it is their decision to make and one we cannot interfere with." Trick replied to the smile of Theo.

"Your Excellency!" Traust exclaimed in frustration.

"Glad to see sense reigns amongst the Tetrarch." Theo poked.

"Do not mistake my agreement of your position as one of support. Traust has a point. Grand Ducal Josse Bisset's decision could have lasting impacts on the Dynastic families. That's why I

will call for an examination before the Parliament of Fae to assess its collateral impacts."

"That could be construed as interference, Your Excellency." Theo warned.

"There's nothing wrong with an assessment." Eva chimed in. "And such a call is not uncommon."

"Especially, if the LauDessar Dynasty as a whole, is moving in that direction. It would be…presumptuous for the Tetrarch to interfere." Trick replied. "I take it Nuallan Delegation is also supportive?"

"Rana Chavalier understands the importance of a unified Dynasty." Theo replied with intent.

"That's the best I can do Traust." Trick said to Traust.

"Understood, Your Excellency." Traust replied then looked at his empty glass. "I need another drink."

"May I join you?" Rimma asked. "There's a new whisky that Pasi wishes for us to try."

"Something else from the Humans?" Evony asked.

"No. It's from the Everday Forests plane. Rajah Nanda gave me a bottle when we were at Ebon." Rimma replied.

"Your company would be lovely, Your Serene Highness, but I need some strong stuff." Traust replied.

"Trust me. It gives even Uncle Bearnard a run for his money." Rimma replied. Traust extended his arm for Rimma and they walked off.

Everyone dispersed except Trick, Eva, Julian, and Bo.

"What was that all about?" Bo asked.

Trick was about to answer when suddenly, they heard the ocean rumbling and saw fur break the surface of the sea. It was The Regnant and she carried a fish in her mouth the size of an adult sperm whale that thrashed the whole while as she brought it ashore and dropped it in the shallow waters near the beach. Bo, Trick, Eva, and Julian all took a few steps back to take the in the massive size of The Regnant. It was like a 10-story building rising out of the sea. Bo always found the sight of The Regnant in her Ranoruk form both majestic and terrifying.

Rajah Kalidor rose out of the sea behind her dragging a similar fish impaled on his gigantic pickaxe ashore. He was similar in size and height as The Queen. Because he approached The Regnant from behind it caused her to roar. Rajah Kalidor halted his advance until The Regnant recognized him and then dived back into the sea to drag his fish up to shore for the waiting cooks. After which, he shifted back into his humanoid form to waiting staff with clothes.

Jock slowly slithered from the sea with a whale-sized fish in his mouth. Jock's Ranoruk form fascinated Bo because out of all the Ruling Children, next to Julian, his form was prehistoric. Julian's Ranoruk form was mythological. Jock dropped the whale fish ashore then laid there and watched it as the fish thrashed for air. Bo's jaw dropped at the sight of what emerged next.

A giant greyish horsehead with expanded gills but with a humanoid torso emerged from the sea close in height to that of Rajah Kalidor. It was Lisandro.

"Is he…?" Bo started.

"A Seahorse, yes." Trick answered.

Lisandro carried a whale-sized fish with both his hands and tossed it ashore, the sound of it was so loud everyone had to momentarily cover their ears from the impact sound. Then he dived back into the water towards the shore and for a few brief moments a fin broke the water. When Lisandro emerged again they saw only his horse head then he dived once more and when he emerged he was in his humanoid form again. As he walked ashore, staff went up and handed him clothing. Jock meanwhile turned back towards the sea and waited.

"What's he doing?" Bo asked.

"Waiting for Mummy." Julian answered.

The Regnant emerged again with a large oval-shaped shell with tentacles that protruded outwards and pushed it ashore with her paws. Jock moved forward and tugged on one of the dangling tentacles.

"That's one of Ari's favorite foods." The Queen Consort said from behind. Aline, Lillian, and Yammy were with her.

"They're not going to eat it now, are they?" Aline asked haughtily. "They have guests."

"I'm sure they're aware." Lillian said. But then The Regnant sat down and with all four of her paws proceeded to work on breaking open the shell while Jock continued to tug on one of the tentacles.

"As you were saying?" Aline poked. Helen exhaled and then went up to the edge of the dock.

"Ari! Jock!" Helen called out in the same booming voice she uses to shake Ari out of her hibernating disorientations. Both Ari and Jock kept working on the shell. Yammy let out an exasperated sigh.

"Ari! Jock!" Helen called out again. The Regnant looked at Helen but still noshed. Bo couldn't help but to giggle.

"We have guests." Helen reminded. The Queen noshed a couple more times then dropped the shell which both felt and sounded like she dropped a two-story building to waiting cooks. The Queen rolled onto her four paws and lumbered towards the pier and as she went along shifted back into her humanoid form and back into clothes. Jock followed suit.

"Thank you!" Helen said as she took Ari's hand after she walked back up onto the patio.

"That was my appetizer." Ari said.

"We have popcorn!" Maxima cheerfully replied from behind them.

"That's not food!" Bearnard cracked to chuckles.

"Just so you're aware. There's an issue with the Assions Delegation." Helen informed Ari.

"Is it what we think it is?" Ari asked.

"I believe so." Helen replied.

"Yeah, what is going on with all that?" Bo asked.

"A matter we had hoped Agent Malikov would have resolve as part of her final assignment in LaCommande before other matters had called her attention elsewhere." Ari replied. "I take it everyone is here?"

"Yes." Helen replied.

"I see that Hesi joined me fishing." Ari said.

"Yes." Helen replied to a knowing look.

"Let's rejoin our guests and then we can discuss it after dinner." Ari said.

Parts of the large shellfish Ari had pushed out of the water was placed along the length of table on platters. Still moving. Everyone dug in except Bo and Lauren who hesitated.

"It's a delicacy best eaten while still alive." Masilo said.

"Don't you eat certain foods alive?" Yammy asked.

"Well, yes, various communities do. Eels, grubs, sea urchins, ants, shrimp, ants, even lobster. But for some it's an acquired habit, others it's out of necessity." Lauren replied. Dakari who sat a few seats down chopped off a small piece and passed to Lauren and Bo.

"Try it." He urged. Lauren was the first. She put the still moving piece in her mouth and quickly chewed and swallowed.

"Not bad. Needs salt." Lauren said which was readily passed down. Bo tried it and suddenly found herself liking it.

"This tastes like chitterlings, and like those things it needs salt. Lots of it." Bo replied.

"What are chitterlings?" Aline asked.

"Pig intestines. I was raised in farm country. Nothing was spared." Bo replied.

"True farmers never do." Masilo replied. Pasi, Margareta and the cook staff served out pieces of the fish, cooked much to Bo and Lauren's relief. Bo and Lauren tasted it.

"This is some of the best fish I have ever tasted. The seasoning!" Lauren noted.

"The seasoning is their specialty." Helen replied.

"Can I ask? Do you have pieces of the tail fried? And can you add this seasoning?" Lauren asked.

"I'll be right back." Margareta said.

They came out with a large plate of fried tail fin and Lauren pulled off a piece it and ate it.

"I never knew you liked fried fish tail." Bo said.

"I used to have this as a kid. It's the best thing ever." Lauren replied.

"Isn't that going to raise your cholesterol?" Bo asked.

"We have a drug for that now." Lauren replied. Bo smiled then took a piece and tried it.

"Oh! That is good!" Bo said.

"So Isara, I understand you're graduating soon from the Knights?" The Queen asked.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Isara replied.

"She is proving to be one of our best ever Knights." Ariella replied.

"You do me great honor, Your Serene Highness."

"She only speaks the truth." Elena replied.

"The Nautical challenge was my favorite stage of the course." The Queen replied.

"You may recall, Your Majesty, we nearly drowned." Saladin noted.

"And yet we are still here." The Queen replied with a grin.

"How many stages are there?" Bo asked.

"Three: The Ground Combat Stage, the Aerial Stage, and the Nautical Stage. Each Knight must be able to master all three stages." Elena replied.

"I'm not sure I would make past the first stage. I don't know how to fly at all or sail. I can canoe and that is about it." Bo replied.

"Don't sell yourself short, Your Royal Highness. Besides, most of the trainees do not either. They learn as they go." Elena replied.

"How long is the course?" Bo asked.

"Three months for indoctrination. One year for the formalized training to include the stages." Elena replied.

"But you won't have to worry about that, Your Royal Highness. Being a Knight is not required for a Regnant." Trick said.

"But I will be Queen one day. Shouldn't I try?" Bo posited.

"It's not required." Lauren repeated in a tone that brooked no challenge. Bo smiled.

"Isara, do you have someone in your life?" Aline asked.

"Yes, she does!" Océane answered proudly.

"Mother." Isara softly admonished, embarrassed but Océane continued on.

"And we are hoping she will finally settle down." Océane added. Isara about turned purple.

"Dear, you are embarrassing her." Nicéphore replied.

"Can't help it if she's involved with the daughter of Rajah Assadourian." Océane said proudly. "The uniting of our two ancient families would be…" Océane gushed.

"Yes, yes. They know, dear." Nicéphore reminded.

"That's Kasmira, right?" Emilia asked.

"Yes, Your Serene Highness." Isara replied.

"Will she be at the Environmental Conference on Stavialon as well?" Emilia asked.

"Yes, Your Serene Highness." Isara replied.

"It would prove an opportune time for an engagement announcement." Océane continued to gush. Isara's shoulders slumped.

"Whatever you choose as far as your personal future, Isara, congratulations on your impending graduation from the Knights." The Queen said saving Isara from continued parental embarrassment.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Isara replied.

"So how are the presentations coming along?" Chione asked.

"We seem to be having genuine positive responses." Evony replied.

"Your plane has a lot to offer." Lavina replied.

"Aside from Humans as cattle?" Maxence asked.

"Of course!" Lavina replied.

"My curiosity is its rehabilitation." Mri said.

"I beg your pardon?" Evony prompted.

"The environment. Since we're mentioning environments." Mri replied.

"The water alone needs drastic improvement." The Queen commented.

"We see an opportunity to practice some long-held theories of own. In every environmental area, to include improving water quality." Mri replied.

"Do these long-held theories include practice on the living?" Bo asked.

"There are approaches that would have an indirect impact on the living, yes, Your Royal Highness, but there's also the opportunity to implement approaches that would directly improve the health and quality of life on the Human Plane." Mri replied.

"The Human plane is a tad sensitive when it comes to being used like a bunch of guinea pigs." Bo replied.

"But our advanced practices would only serve to advance the Human Plane as the epicenter of the latest innovations that would serve both them and us. In my view, that's the greatest asset that Plane brings to the table." Mri replied.

"Aside from being cattle." Maxence stated again.

"Maxence!" Joceline softly admonished.

"Not sure I would agree to an entire plane being one, giant test tube. For every experiment there are rejections." Lauren said. "The lives on the Human plane, both Human and Fae, should not be callously regarded as test subjects."

"I agree." Evony chimed in. "Any proposal for…innovations on the Human plane should be met with the strictest scrutiny." Evony said then looked straight at Maxence. "After all, the Human plane is not just about serving as cattle."

"I have a question as to their designation." This came from Claire Heatherington who suddenly had quite a few eyes on her.

"What do you mean?" Yvette Gadon asked.

"I mean, why are they petitioning as a Delegation? Shouldn't they be petitioning as the Fifth Dynasty? Or the Tenth Dynasty to be more precise since if they were to become a Dynasty they would be the 11th in our history." Claire replied.

"Evony, a Rana? Parisa's glee would know no end if the Human plane became a Dynasty." Juliette Sellecchia remarked.

"I think I would make a stunning Rana, thank you!" Evony replied to several smiles.

"There's only been ten Dynasties in the entire history of Realm?" Bo asked surprised.

"Only ten." Antilio replied.

"The assumption behind the petition is that the Human plane would eventually fall under my Dynasty, provided they win Inclusion." Trick replied.

"That's a huge assumption, Your Excellency." Lavina replied.

"But not a bad approach for them to become a Dynasty instead of a Delegation." Traust replied.

"I'm not sure that would prove the best option. Evony looking stunning as a Rana, notwithstanding, of course." Esteves Dabalos said to smiles. "From an inclusionary point of view, if we want the Humans to be accepted wouldn't it be more sound for them to reside within an established Dynasty, demonstrating total acceptance by the Realm rather than forming a separate Dynasty? As a separate Dynasty they would be perceived by some as exceptional, a special case, that falls outside of the Realm. Almost like a second state of the Realm."

"Well, they are a special case. Our next Regnant hails from it." Silana Lambert replied.

"My point exactly. In declaring the Human Plane a Dynasty we might set a precedent as declaring them a first among equals." Esteves Dabalos said.

"That would not go over well with certain elements of the Realm. Worse, it could split the Realm, if worse came to wear." Jonty Heatherington replied.

"What about the Marriage Question?" Joceline de Morvois asked.

"I plan to introduce the question myself, and Jock will defend it before it before The Sphere of Judges." The Queen replied to mixed looks.

"Your Majesty, wouldn't it be prudent for the introduction to come from Rana McCorrigan?" Joceline asked. "After all, he just said he plans to assume control over the Human Plane himself."

"Bo is the next Regnant. It would be more logical for it to come from me." The Queen replied.

"Of course, Your Majesty, but wouldn't you agree that such a question which seeks to fundamentally alter our cultural way of life should be thoroughly examined? Introduce it on a lower, investigative level?" Joceline replied.

"You mean banish the question to some Joint Conference Committee, perhaps never to see the light of day again?" Julian queried.

"Well, it wouldn't as dramatic as all that, Your Serene Highness. After all, it does involve Her Royal Highness. A response would be required." Joceline replied.

"Questions posed before Joint Conference Committees take years, if not decades to reach an agreement. Dr. Lewis doesn't have all day here for such twaddling!" Bearnard said which caused people to stifle a few chuckles.

"It is Bo's one request of the Realm." The Queen said.

"Really, two." Maxence commented.

"Maxence! You've been pouting to say something all dinner so out with it!" Grand Primus Cheles challenged.

"This whole thing is preposterous!" Maxence shot back.

"And here we go." Lillian commented.

"We just let Rana McCorrigan walk right back into the door, and right behind him Grand Ducal Marquis as if all is forgiven simply because his extended progeny happens to be the next Regnant!" Maxence stormed.

"Maxence, you forget yourself!" Yanis Gadon admonished.

"I forget nothing! But you all certainly have! The war! Everything that happened after the war!" Maxence stormed on as he pointed towards Trick. "His complicity after the attempt by Eulises Santiago on Her Majesty's very life!"

Trick shot out of his chair.

"I resent that assertion!" Trick challenged. Maxence stood.

"I don't really care what you resent, Your Excellency!" Maxence replied.

"How did you come by such information?" Primus Levassuer asked. Maxence glanced at Mira, taken a bit off his footing.

"My point is," Maxence forged on, "given the history of both the Humans and whatever guttural Fae on that plane exists, merely entertaining the notion of their Inclusion is laughable!"

"The Human Plane is right here! In me, personified!" Bo challenged. "So, if you got something to really say, say it!"

"Yes, Your Royal Highness. I do. I resent having to entertain traitors! I resent having to entertain Fae who are nothing higher than the gutter they crawled out from, and I resent the sheer lunacy at Fae being able to marry their food. I have my daughter's reputation to consider! Here she was, nearly engaged to His Serene Highness only for him to take up the very same…proclivities here as you. Next thing we know we'll be passing laws that would allow us to marry the very food we are consuming here!" Maxence thundered.

Bo shot out of her chair followed by Antony, Regent Saladin and half the table. Theo looked quickly between her father and Bo.

"Father, please! Sit down!" Theo pleaded. Maxence stood his ground.

"Dear Maxence, I suggest you resume your seat. And quickly." Antony warned.

"Or what, Your Serene Highness?" Maxence challenged.

"Maxence. Do not put me to the test." Antony warned again. Maxene look at Antony slightly pained.

"I know precisely what you are capable of, Your Serene Highness, and yet nevertheless, someone I would have proudly called my son." Maxence said.

"Ah. There's the real itch." Masilo noted.

"No matter your issues, Maxence you will demonstrate the proper respect as a guest of Their Majesties!" Regent Saladin warned and glared at him until Maxence understood what Regent Saladin intended.

Maxence bowed low before Their Majesties and then again before Bo.

"Forgive me, Your Majesties. Your Royal Highness. Please excuse us." Maxence said then turned to his wife and daughter. "Let us depart."

"Maxence, we are not leaving." Joceline said in a low, but forceful voice.

"Joceline…!" Maxence insisted.

"You have embarrassed us enough! Do not compound it by dragging us off in a huff! We are staying! Sit down!" Joceline said again in a low voice.

"Everyone needs to sit down." The Queen finally said. "You included Maxence."

Everyone slowly resumed their seats.

"And there goes my hope in seeing someone's head cut off tonight." Bearnard commented as he took a large gulp of his drink.

"Bearnard!" Lillian softly admonished.

"And here I thought dinner would be the easy part of tonight's agenda." The Queen said to awkward smiles then looked at Maxence. "Anything else you want to say Maxence?"

Maxence took in a deep breath, dropped his head, and closed his eyes for a moment. When he raised his head again he looked around the table.

"Again, forgive me. There's so much that has happened, is happening, and will happen, I just feel…aggrieved!" Maxence admitted.

"Once we conclude the focus of our agenda tonight, you, me, Helen and Joceline can sit down afterwards together and talk as two families." The Queen said.

"Thank you, Your Majesty! We would very much appreciate that." Joceline said as she curled her arms around her husband's arm.

"That would also give Antony and Theo time to talk as well." The Queen Consort added as she looked straight at Antony, who looked back at her resigned. The Queen Consort then directed the staff to bring out the next round of food, which allowed for tempers to calm down.

"You could just mandate it, Your Majesty" Rajah Phares said to The Queen after a few minutes had passed.

"Yes, I could, but I won't - precisely because of Maxence's reaction. The Realm needs to agree of its own accord. That way, it's accepted by the Realm by their own accord." The Queen replied.

"Wise, Your Majesty." Rajah Nicéphore Callamasse said.

As the wait staff served the next round of food, Océane commented joyfully, "I think we're being fattened up!"

"Of course!" The Queen Consort replied.

Everyone proceeded to dig in quietly until Maxima said, "So how about those Midnight Reapers?" which promptly threw the entire table into a boisterous, animated discussion of all things Juggerbol.

After dinner, everyone dispersed onto the extended deck, drinks in hand in various group discussions. Bo, Lauren, and Trick huddled together in a far corner. Trick took Lauren by the hand.

"Please do not take what you heard during dinner too seriously." Trick said.

"I have too, Trick. This is our lives. Besides, I've heard far worse expressed by our own Elders." Lauren replied.

"I don't know how much more ups and downs of this evening I can take." Bo replied.

"You're the next Queen, you will have to get use to such temperamental discussions." Trick replied then his expression changed as he saw someone approach. "Well, this is about to get interesting."

"Your Royal Highness. Milady. Your Excellency!" greeted Prime Representative Chandaa Tammam. "Quiet the dinner discussion this evening."

"Quite." Bo replied.

"Their Majesties are blessed in Maxima. She always knows how to turn an atmosphere." Chandaa said.

"Yes, she does." Bo replied.

"My apologies for Maxence's rude behavior." Chandaa said.

"Why are you apologizing? He should be the one apologizing." Bo replied.

"His concerns carry emotional weight. He was serious when he said he would have been proud to call Antony his son. He's not at all happy with his daughter's break-up with him. Theo would have been married to the first-born, and the very first of Their Majesties' children to be married, notwithstanding his other official positions. there were a lot of firsts in that pairing, personal affections aside. Not to mention the issues facing the Convocation this round are both compounding and confusing for him. For a lot of Fae, to be honest, I don't think I've ever seen a more challenging Convocation than this one." Chandaa said.

"Well, he could have toned it down." Bo replied.

"Your Royal Highness, you have been at the Presidium only for a short while. Behavior like that, especially before Their Majesties while extremely rare is not uncommon. That's why The Queen didn't react to it. You will need to learn to do the same. After all, you will be Queen one day." Chandaa advised.

"Yeah, so I hear." Bo said as she looked at Trick. "So often."

"I must say, though, Maxence's tirade made me think. Why did you return to the Presidium?" Chandaa asked Trick.

"Because of Bo's destiny." Trick answered.

"Are you sure it's not because you wish to claim the Realm as your own?" Chandaa asked.

"Reclaim the Realm as his own?" Bo asked befuddled. A reaction not lost on Chandaa.

"My ambitions were buried along with the Blood King." Trick replied.

"But yet, you are the only Fae who can influence Destiny. Perhaps, apart from the Seer, and the Norn, but then she went with you to the Human Plane." Chandaa said. That made Bo think.

"The past is past." Trick replied.

"For now." Chandaa said then turned and walked away but then stopped, turned around and looked at Trick. "Trickster. That's what some call you, right? On the Human plane?" Trick responded with an exasperated look. "Too bad that's all they think you're capable of." Chandaa said then smiled, turned and walked off.

"What was that all about?" Lauren asked.

"Everything Chandaa does has purpose. She was testing the waters." Trick replied.

"What do you mean?" Lauren asked.

"Before she became a Prime Representative, she was an Attaché." Trick replied.

"You mean she's part spy?" Lauren asked.

"One of the best." Trick replied.

"You know, what she said about how you could influence Destiny in me becoming the next Queen? I never even looked at this all in those terms." Bo said.

"That's because Destiny clearly anointed you." Trick replied.

"But can your powers influence Destiny itself?" Bo asked.

"We all know what happens whenever I use my powers." Trick reminded. "Besides, our focus needs to be on ensuring our petition is accepted by the Presidium. That must happen."

"Why wouldn't it?" Bo asked "Seriously. I come from there."

"Have you ever thought what would happen if the petition was denied?" Trick asked.

"Who has time to think around here?" Bo complained. Trick chuckled.

"If we lose this petition the Presidium will abandon the Human Plane, Princess Royal or not." Trick replied. "That means we'll be back to square one, and worse, the Human Plane will be cut off to us. Mary, Dyson, Tamsin, your families, friends, the DRM, the JFM, will all be lost to us. Perhaps, forever."

"Oh c'mon, Trick! That's sheer hyperbole!" Lauren said in disbelief.

"No, it's not. The Realm has made far more tougher choices than one borne from affection. The Monolith Plane ring a bell? If they reject our petition they will cut it all off. That's the gamble we're taking here. We must show our Plane adds value." Trick replied.

"What if we decide to live on the Human plane if the petition is rejected?" Lauren asked.

"I know this insensitive to say but given the recent dinner conversation they would only care about Bo." Trick replied.

"What about you?" Bo asked.

"I made my choice when I accepted the Ranaship. My fate, whatever it might be, will be met here at the Presidium." Trick replied. Bo looked at Lauren who had a pensive look on her face.

"Now what are you thinking?" Bo asked Lauren.

"We do need to talk about this." Lauren replied.

"What do you mean? We're staying together." Bo declared.

"Of course. But we need to decide whether it will be here or back home." Lauren replied.

"Lauren, it's not that simple anymore." Bo said.

"I agree. That's why we need to discuss our options." Lauren replied.

"You want to go back?" Bo asked.

"You want to stay here?" Lauren countered.

"Let's save this all for later." Trick resolved. "Right now, we needed to stay focused on winning Inclusion so such choices aren't necessary. Okay?" Both Bo and Lauren nodded.

"By the way, what was all the hubbub about with Traust before dinner?" Bo asked. Trick was about to explain to Bo again when the Seneschal called everyone together again for the evening discussion.

After drinks were refreshed and everyone had taken their seats The Queen scanned the group.

"Let's cut right to it, shall we? Divestment or Supremacy? What would you advise?" The Queen prompted.

"I guess the best place to start is with the easiest. Where do you stand, Your Majesty?" Lillian asked.

"Honestly? Everywhere and nowhere. I realize the present framework is one born from putting the Realm back together after the war. I believe the current construct works. However, there are factions who see it as temporary and desire to return the days before the war when Delegations had more control over their provinces. However, there are also those who believe we should move towards greater authority, supremacy over the Realm. Could I live with any one of these choices? Yes. But it's not for me to decide. It is for the Realm." The Queen replied.

"With the greatest respect, Your Majesty. But that's hedging." Theo replied.

"You did not hear me, Theo. I don't wish to influence, because it is not my decision to make. It is the Realm's." The Queen replied.

"You would agree to the diminishment of your own power?" Bearnard asked incredulous.

"If that is what the Realm wishes." The Queen replied.

"Well, I most certainly do not!" Bearnard declared. "Your Royal Highness, what do you think?"

"All I've heard are opinions, but nothing that makes me support one way over another." Bo replied.

"This is your future, Your Royal Highness." Bearnard shot.

"You're saying this to the one person who firmly believes in living the life one chooses. Whatever the Realm decides I will follow." Bo replied.

"Then we are back to square nothing, then." Bearnard said resigned.

"I disagree. We are at an opportunity." Theo replied.

"I agree." Jock added. "Would Divestment be good for the Delegations? Absolutely. Would it be necessarily beneficial? No."

"Well, for one, Delegations would be back to negotiating their own agreements without the coordinative resources we currently enjoy, and I for one, will tell you I prefer those coordinative resources. Saves us the headache." Jonty said.

"But you would also have the autonomy in making those agreements without Parliamentary approval." Theo challenged.

"But at the cost of effective coordination." Lavina countered.

"I prefer Supremacy. I have no fear of it. It's not like there wouldn't be any checks and balances. The Parliament would remain. There would just be some essential decisions that wouldn't require a lot of bureaucracy." Lisandro said.

"But such decisions would be at the hand of The Regnant." Theo replied.

"And we are lucky to have in our present Regnant a benevolent one." Mri said.

"What about future Regnants who may not be?" Maxence asked.

"Regnants are chosen by Destiny." Victorien replied.

"Doesn't guarantee benevolence. Recall in our history Regnant Darya." Yanis Gadon reminded.

"Destiny chooses Regnants based on what the Realm needs at the time." Jock replied.

"Only an Adherent would take that stance." Theo said.

"The selection of the Regnant is not by election, nor is it won in battle. It is by Destiny itself. Those who are chosen to rule by Destiny is a divine choice and implied in that choice is wisdom. Thus, their actions and judgements are without qualification." Jock replied.

"And only a devout son would take that stance." Theo said.

"Indeed." Rajah Phares added. "Even my own children do not speak of me with such devotion."

"So where does this all talk leave us? At a standstill?" Aline asked.

"No." The Queen replied then turned to Eva. "Taioseach Sandalli?"

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

"Let us pose the question before Parliament in a years' time. That will provide ample time for factions to prepare for the debate before Parliament." The Queen replied.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Eva replied.

"Satisfactory, everyone?" The Queen asked.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Came the resounding reply.

After most of the senior families departed for the evening Bearnard approached The Queen.

"Ari! You aren't serious?" Bearnard said.

"I need to know who aims to tear us asunder, Bearnard. There's a design happening. I need to know who or what forces are behind it. As Claudius said, 'Let all the poisons that luck in the mud hatch out." The Queen replied. "Now if you'll excuse me. Helen and I need to go sit and talk with Maxence and Joceline as parents."

"Your Majesties?" Pasi prompted as he and Margareta approached.

"Yes, Pasi?" The Queen queried.

"We didn't mean to eavesdrop, but we wanted you to know whatever you decide, we stand with you. The Realm stands with you." Pasi said.

"Thank you Pasi! You and Margareta are faithful friends, not only to us but to the Realm." The Queen replied.

"You saved the Realm. We will help and defend it by your side." Margareta replied.

"Thank you." The Queen replied.

"May you hand be blessed, may you always prosper, may your life last long." Pasi and Margareta said together then extended their courtesies and when acknowledged turned and walked away with Their Majesties right behind them to speak with Maxence and Joceline.

Then the Seneschal appeared.

"Milady. There's a call for you?" The Seneschal informed.

"Is it the children?" Lauren asked.

"No, Milady. It's County Regent Tamsin." The Seneschal replied.

"Excuse me, everyone." Lauren said as she followed the Seneschal off the back patio and inside the restaurant.

"Who's Claudius?" Bearnard asked.

"The Roman Emperor Claudius. Her Majesty is quoting a line from a TV series based on his life. Thank Lauren for that one." Bo replied.

"Well, whatever the heck is going on Ari would be foolish to give up an iota of power." Bearnard said.

"No argument here." Yammy replied.

"So, this proposal heads to the Parliament next?" Bo asked.

"It puts the question out into the open, and in the process reveal various intentions." Primus Levassuer replied. Bo nodded.

"I need to go check on Lauren." Bo said to extended courtesies then left the patio deck in search of Lauren.

Bo found her a few minutes later leaned back into a chair with resigned look on her face, and Tamsin in view.

"Hey Tamsin!" Bo greeted.

"Your Royal Highness!" Tamsin greeted.

"What's going on?" Bo asked.

"Time has run out for me." Lauren answered.

"What?" Bo asked.

"It's my parents. They found me. And they want to talk."