Eric, as usual, arranged for us to travel in style. We exited the private jet to be swept away by a stunning Escalade limousine. Godric and Eric made no more plans or discussed any schemes on the flight; it had me a little nervous that they were so confident. I am not even aware of any back up, not that the three of us are not a force in our own right, but one should never underestimate their opponents.

Godric helps me from the vehicle. We look more like we are attending a movie premiere or awards ceremony than facing down an enemy. I have been in involved in all of this long enough to know appearances mean everything. I guess we were going for beautiful, united, and unafraid.

The Berts are at the mansion's entrance. I am sure to many others they make an intimidating presentation but to me they are just so sweet. I smile at them, step forward, and speak for our little party. "Siegbert and Wybert, it has been too long!" I launch myself at first one and then the other giving them a big hug whether they are ready or not. Neither of the ancient brutes attempts to stop me, and neither returns the hug, but Wybert grins hugely at my actions as Siegbert remains stoic. "You know Eric, and myself, but this gentleman is Godric, he is my mate, my bonded, he is MINE." Some of my light leaks out with the last word surprising everyone including myself but placing power behind my words. The Berts have always known I am different but I never showed them or told them. Their only response is, though I did not expect one at all, if possible Siegbert stands taller and more stoic and Wybert's grin widens until it nearly eats his face then they each hold open a door with a deep nod to me as they pulled them open.

Inside beasts of a different kind lay waiting to be tamed.

Rasul is waiting in the lobby to greet us and escort us to the queen. I have always liked Rasul, he is polite and laid back, well as laid back as a vampire can be. He kisses my hand then addresses Eric and surprisingly, Godric. A silent conversation passes between my ancient lover and Rasul. Rasul ushers us to the queen's court and announces us as he leads us through the doors.

"Princess Brigant of the ruling house of Faery, her bonded mate the ancient one known as Death and his child the Viking, your majesty." He bows and leaves the room closing the door behind him. His use of my title nearly bowls me over. Apparently, every supernatural creature in the realm is now aware of just exactly who and what I am. Great, just great!

"Welcome princess! Really, you should have mentioned your station before now, so I could have offered you proper accommodations for one of your station." The young, pretty, impetuous queen snarks.

"Actually, that is why we are here." Godric speaks and all eyes in the room are on him. The queen's guards all take a few steps forward.

"Really?" the queen questions, confused.

"Yes, I wish to marry my bonded, but I am sure my in laws will ask for a crown. It is only fair since her family offers one. Alas, I did not have one lying around, my beloved adores Louisiana, and you did mention how important propriety is, so I will take yours." His will slams out I waves bringing the vampires present to their knees just as before in Dallas.

"You can't do this!" The queen screams from her knees. "The council won't allow it!" She argues.

"Silly child, I helped create the council. They will always support my rule. It is only because I never desired it that I did not have it. I desire it now, and so I have it now." Godric moves and is in front of the wailing queen in a flash. The wailing stops and silence descends as Godric pulls the astounded queen's heart from her chest.

Never have I witnessed a more horrifying or powerful act in my life. He squeezes her heart and it turns to ash as do the rest of her remains. The guards and other supes present stood stunned and fearful. "Your new queen is Sookie and your king is Death. You and all supernaturals that reside in this kingdom have 48 hours to swear fealty or relocate out of our area." He returns to my side and takes my hand kissing it. "See, it was a little harder than just walking in and asking for it." I cannot help but return his mischievous grin.