Summary: Sometimes getting befriended leads to strange events, in this case a possessive doctor of theoretical sciences decides that someone has to be taught a lesson for being a friend. Yet someone else pays in ways even the 'good' doctor has no way of knowing. So, Displaced in time can a young college grad make a new life and can he survive the changes yet to happen to him in the process?
Displaced
Chapter 3: Discussions and Settling In
By: Slie Amos
This is a fanfiction story and as such any characters from existing works, such as Sailor Moon, Ranma, Robotech, BGC, etc…, are not mine but belong to the authors that created them or their agents.
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Once she had left he checked his bags over and found that nothing had been moved or taken, grinning a little at his own paranoia he looked over the room, while it is not truly elegant or ritzy the room and bath were more of an understated elegance but everything was still rather large, 'I mean look at the bath 4 or 5 people can fit into that thing alone, this will take some getting use to. Though I hope I am not here that long.' After checking his things and just looking around the room more by himself, Billy took and did some stretching and then a short meditation session to put the day's events into memory so he could organize them better later. Then it was off to bed and he was asleep quicker than he thought he would be, looked like he was more worn out from the events than he thought. 'Mom, Dad, Sis, I will find a way home one day. I promise you this,' was his last conscious thought…
Chapter 3: Discussions
Slowly Billy rolled over and looked at the clock he placed next to the bed, after asking Guardian Mercury what the local time was last night, and groans. Man, I thought it was still early not almost 2 hours after I normally wake up to do morning warms ups. He rolled over and slowly started to get out of bed thinking of what had happened in the last 12 or so hours to him. First there was that displacement or whatever it was that happened; that hurt and would have taken a few days to fully recover on my own, I am just glad their doctors, or healers, could help. Still, the event had taken a lot out of him and he would need a day or two more to get back to his normal balance. Then there was the fact that he had used his recently developed ability to heal others and himself. Man why did I do that, but I did owe Sergeant Ryo for striking her when they found me, so honor called for me to do something to correct my actions. He sighed and decided to try and keep any more abilities quiet, unless they seem to already know them.
He moved to the bathroom once he got his things from his bag and really started to wake up as he got ready for the day. Deciding to take a hot bath to help ease the tension in his body from what happened last night, he also starts to review what happened during the previous day to try and figure out anything before talking to the Guardians today. But all he is able to recall are the last of the interviews and skills checks, then going out and about with Aiko Suki and her friends, going to the club and unwinding there for a bit. Heading back to the hotel talking to his mother online and then laying down, then the pain and not being able to wake. That strange dream and then waking up here in this place.
Recalling his mother and their chat before this all happened, he started thinking about his family in general. His father brought western ways and beliefs into the marriage, while his mother brought the Japanese ways and they seem to have melded them together. Though Bushido and Giri, as the Japanese called them were very close to what his father and his family followed so made the mix of the two much easier. Honor, doing what is right, helping others, and protecting those in need are just some of his family's ways and beliefs. Like Giri, the family worked to uphold the image and values of the family in public and in private. Working together and assisting each other when and where it was needed. Now he finds himself who knows how far from home, in space and time it seems, and with no family to turn to.
Granted the Queen and the Guardians, also the sergeant from last night, seem to be trying but only time will tell if that continues. While thinking about the new friends he seemed to gain last night Billy finished his bath, then got ready to face the day, and the discussions to come. As he walked back into the main room his eyes fell on to his bags and remembered the pain from the previous night from what felt like electrical overload and he moved over to check out his things while waiting to see who shows up.
Once he took out all his electronics and placed them on the table in the room he picked up his cell phone. As far as he can tell it is fine, but there is no cellular network that it can find here. Going on to his music / media player and tablet reader, he finds that they two are working though the tablet seems to have some problems when it starts but runs just fine once it is on. He will have to check it out later and hope it is nothing major, he doubts he will be able to find a place to repair it here. All that is left is his digital camera and laptop, they both come up just find and seem to have taken not damage at all last night. Though charging them or finding batteries is going to be a real pain now. First thing he will need to do is find a way to power these items till he can find out how long he is here for.
While he is looking over some of the images on the camera there is a knock at the door. When Billy opens the door there is a young lady there with some foods for him. She introduces herself as Iria, and she asks if she can bring in the tray. Billy just nods and stepped aside to let her in.
As she sets the tray down, ("I was told to give you a message, Sir. There will be someone here in about an hour so that you can start your business. Also we did not know what foods you wanted so the cooks just set up a general tray for now. If you have any request please leave them with the tray on the table outside the doors when you are finished.") She starts to move toward the door as she finishes with the normal 'if there is nothing else' line.
Billy stops her by calling her name as she reaches the door, ("My name is Billy, please use it if it is just us. Also thank you for the message and the food.") He gives her a small but polite bow and lets her leave now as he looks over the food and sits down.
After Iria closed the door and he is alone on the room again. Billy looked over the items on the tray before tasting a few things that looked familiar. He picked up his camera again while sitting down to eat, looked at pictures while he tasted different things on the tray. When he looked at the tray to decide what to try next he noticed that each item had a little card with it, with some writing on it in a script he had never seen before.
"Nice they seem to have put name cards with the foods here, that was nice of them."
Shortly someone knocked on the door while Billy was still eating and placing some of the cards on a little tray he hoped was for the items he wanted more of. He got up and moved to the door with his camera in his hand to open it. Once open he finds two of the young ladies from last night waiting, but they are dressed differently. They don't have on the stylized fruku but more normal clothing, well what seemed to be normal here anyway. As he opened the door he took a good look and realized that this was Guardian Mercury and Guardian Jupiter.
Bowing politely to the two Guardians, ("Good morning, Guardians. I am sorry if my over sleeping this morning has caused any problems. Please come in, I was just finishing breakfast.") With that he stepped back to allow them entry.
They both smiled slightly as they enter, but Mercury says, ("Please, when we are not in uniform I am Airia and Jupiter is Keria. And we only use the princess title while in court or in public. Like this please just use our names. May we sit down?") While Keria notices all the electronic items he has placed on the table.
Billy just nods and motions toward the various chairs in the room while he takes the tray and places it outside the door on the small table he finds there. Returning and taking a seat facing the two young ladies. ("First off how was Iria able to speak to me this morning? Did you make more of those translator items? I did find it odd that I understood her when I expected to have trouble talking to anyone but you ladies.")
("Yes, there were two more translators created last night, and I believe that a couple more will be made today, to allow you to be able to talk to others. Though I am sure you have noticed they do nothing for written language. Do you have any more questions about the translators?") Airia responded while placing the translator crystal from last night on the table between them.
Keria stays quiet and listens, though she does keep looking over at the items on the table, she seems interested in them.
Billy nods at the answer given, ("Not really, other than will one of them actually be given to me? Beyond that I am more concerned with what happened and how long I will be here. Keria, right? I would like to show you how my laptop and such all works but until I know I will be able to recharge the batteries and such I need to leave everything off as much as I can. Though my camera has a couple sets of extra batteries so I can show you that. But I think business first…")
Keria nods and speaks up just before Airia responds, ("Sorry, it is just that it all looks interesting and I am sure something can be worked out to supply power for them, but yes business first. But I will want to see how your camera works later.") She grins and then nods to Airia, who just nods back then speaks.
("As to you being given a translator device until you either leave or learn Lunarian, the main language used here, yes you will. It would be a lot of trouble to give one to everyone that you may encounter and need to speak to. The few being made are for a given few here in the palace, your servant Iria is one and a few others will have one for emergencies. As to Iria, she is a palace servant assigned to help keep the room and all clean. You can take meals here or join us if we are eating someplace else, though as a Friend of the Queen's you will be expected to eat one meal a week with all of us and the Queen. Now on to the real reason we are here, or at least I am here, for.") Airia shoots a glance at Keria as she reclines on the heavily cushioned chair and shrugs back at Airia.
("Hey, all the technical stuff you have to go over is not something I am good with. I think I am here mainly as the Queen wants us to get him some clothing set up that is not so noticeably different.") She shrugs again and gets comfortable.
Sighing Airia turns back to Billy, ("Well yes, there is a lot of technical language that will be used today, but before we start we do have people looking for a way to reverse what happened last night. Though it may be a few days at least before we have any answers. I do hope that it will not be too hard for you to understand and follow as I am not the best at breaking this particular subject down into easy to understand parts, the one who is is working on finding a way to reverse the incident.") The look she gives to Billy here says she is hoping that he has some knowledge to work with here.
Billy meanwhile just nods and sighs as well, why do things always need to be complex at times like this? ("I understand, and if I do not understand something I will work with you to clarify what is meant. I do have a degree in theoretical electronic design with minors in computers and physics. So I think I should be able to follow the discussion, I hope.")
("Great, now what we have is that you were sent here by someone against you will and without your knowledge, the reason behind your injuries and all last night was…") Airia begins and for the next two to three hours they discuss the event and what is currently being done. As well as working out a schedule for instruction in languages and skills for Billy to learn or maybe teach. He is willing to teach both English and Japanese in exchange for Lunarian and maybe one or two others from here.
("Granted the classes and such will only happen if I end up staying here for a while, if I leave in a couple days they would be a waste to just get started. Do you have any idea on when your people will know more about sending me back?") Billy states as they are wrapping up the discussion.
Airia nods slightly, ("You make a good point, and it could be a couple days before we have an initial report on what may need to happen before we can send you back and if it is felt we can do that. From what I read of the report we got, I mentioned Temptress to you earlier, I personally think you may be here for a while. But I am no expert on this given subject, so I will wait and see what those with more knowledge here say. But I do know that the Queen will do everything in her power to get you back home. Or if the worst happens she will do everything she can to help you settle in here, be it here at the Palace or elsewhere.")
At this point Keria speaks up, she has taken part in the discussion at several points as well, ("Billy we know you want to get back home to your family, but please understand that that may not happen, we do not even know the exact mechanics behind your trip here last night yet. There may be something there that stops you reversing it. What I am saying is simple, be ready just in case. I will be a friend though like Airia and the others even the sergeant from last night, we do have duties that may take us away from time to time. Airia, I was thinking, on his electronics here, think you can use your portable computer link and scan them so we can get power adapters set up?")
("I was think…")
("I have all…")
Billy and Airia started to reply together, he just inclines his head to her to continue but she shakes hers ("No, you go first as it may change what I was going to say.")
Billy nods, ("I have all the plugs and adapters for the items here, and some replacement batteries for some things. Though it depends of what type of power source you have on how easy it will be to adapt to.")
Airia nods again, ("True, but it should not be too hard to adjust for, so just let me scan them and I will be able to tell you how long it will take. My computer link will allow me to check that for you.") And putting action to words she pulls out her portable link and sets about scanning the various items even the extra batteries for his camera.
("Interesting… it seems we can create a type of battery that will last much longer than the ones you use now, and it will be very easy to setup a line power source using a portable power generator for short term. As to the batteries for your camera…") Airia picks one up as she speaks ("we can have a few of our versions of batteries adapted quickly. Again they will last longer they the ones you have. I will be able to say how long after they are adapted though.")
Keria stands up here and claps, ("Now that we have been cooped up here all morning what do you say we show you around the quest wing and grounds and get something to eat. Then we can see about a little clothing for you so you blend in around here.") She has a smile on her face and seems to be saying without words 'I am not allowing you to stay inside all day.'
Airia shrugs and looks at Billy while she picks up the translator crystal.
Billy shrugs, ("I may as well learn a little about where I am as it seems I will be here at least a few more days, not much more than that I hope though. No offense to you, the Queen, and the others.")
("We understand and take no offense. So let us show you around a bit, it will be mainly the guest area as to do the entire palace would take a few days. Well at least what you would be allowed into anyway.") Keria states while walking to the door.
Billy looks at his things on the table and bed, he had been going through his clothing a bit as well. Making a motion with his hand toward his stuff, ("Is it alright to leave everything out like this?")
Keria just shrugs while Airia responds, ("It will be fine, though Iria may take the clothing to be cleaned while we are out. If that is fine by you, I can leave her a message if you want with any instructions about this…")
("Just ask her to leave the things on the table and still in the pack and bag alone for now. I want to go through the papers and other items later. Though I will take my camera so I can show you two how it works.") Billy replies as he is picking up the camera and a case with a shoulder strap for it. Turning toward Kira and the door before looking at Airia to see if she was ready to go.
Airia nods as she is putting down a small pad that she had just made a note for Iria on the table. She then moves to the door, ("Where would you like to head first?") said as she and Kira head out the door first, with Billy right behind them.
("You're the guides here, you can decide. And as I have no idea what is around this wing that would be best too.")
Nodding Kira answers that, ("The fields then, where you can exercise or train or just have some fun. Also they are the closest to here. So it was mentioned last night you are a warrior, how long have you trained and in what style?") She seems to be intent here, paying attention to him for his answer in a way that speaks clearly of her personal interest in his answer.
("Really Kira, he just got here and you are trying to learn more fighting styles? If you had looked over the information we got last night like most of the rest of us you would know that. Though the names of the styles mentioned I have never heard before; Kempo, Tai Kwon Do, and a couple others I can't remember well enough to try and say right now.") Airia sighs and shakes her head at this, ("What is it with you and Demeter from Uranus with hand to hand combat, anyway? And why are you grinning like that Billy?") The last said when she looks at him after basically going off on Kira.
("Hey, sorry if I like to learn something physical Airia. But new styles of fighting interest me, I am not totally sure but for Uranus I think she just wants to learn everything she can about fighting. Bit unnerving though…") She also looks at Billy as he starts to chuckle a little.
("hehehe…, Sorry but how you two are going on right now is so like some of the people I know back home,") –sigh– ("That it almost felt normal, and I always had a laugh from Kreg and Ron's antics. They are the ones who normally acted like you two just were. And before you say anything about me being down, I will not adjust to things for at least several days, and I am hoping to able to return home before then.") Is what they get while they are walking, and Kira leads them through a set of doors not that far from his room.
Kira just nods while Airia takes a moment, letting Kira point out a few things about the area they have entered. The fields turn out to be a collection of training and playing fields next to, and around, the guest wing. While listening to Kira and looking around many of the names she gives are not translated as they seem to not have a translation, but a lot of the things he sees he can figure out by watching or looking at some done. He is told there are several pools both outside and indoors for fun or training and fields for several games or just training. They also have similar areas inside for when the weather is bad.
Airia seems about to say something but stops, takes a breath and goes on, ("I keep forgetting you just got here, I need to remember also that you do not come from any of the other locations I am use to. But anyway, I would like to see some of your fighting skills please, nothing big or major. I have been curious about this subject sense last night.") She seems almost sorry to have asked, but before he can answer Kira steps in and says she would like to have a friendly spar, 'nothing major' she says.
("Please Billy, I would love to see some of your skills, and do a direct comparison with mine.") The look Kira gives him and that Airia gives her for stepping in like that almost sets him laughing again.
("Sure, why not. It would help get my mind off other things for a bit. And Airia, you are worried about me, like a friend would be. I hope for however long I am here we can be friends at least.") He grins at her slightly before turning back to Kira, ("Let's start off easy and work our way up to faster and more advanced moves carefully. We don't want to hurt each other.") As he speaks he is taking off his camera case and handing it to Airia who returns his grin a bit startled by his comment.
He and Kira move out on to a clear section of the nearest field and take their ready stances, but he bows to her while cupping his right hand in his left, with the right hand making something like a claw shape. Kira returns the bow, but has a confused look on her face.
Seeing the look he says, ("The bow is something used in sparing, or training, where I am from. It basically says 'I will do my best not to hurt you, but if I do I am sorry.' I am sure you both know that accidents can and do happen while training, even at the highest levels.") He then motions he is ready as he takes his stance again, feet spread to basically shoulder width but one a bit forward and the other a bit back from center. His hands in a loosely cupped shape with his left held a shoulder level and slightly in front while the right is held a bit above waist level with the 'cup' downward. Her stance is much like a classic karate stance, but looser and not so rigid it seems.
As he suggested they start of easily, moving at a speed that they either can dodge or block with ease. Though the moves and strikes start coming faster as the two get a feel for the other. They also gather a small crowd who were already on the fields exercising or something, a murmur is heard when Kira, the Champion and Princess of Jupiter, is recognized facing off with an unknown person.
Both stop speeding up after a bit, though several there are watching in awe of the two, an unknown male and the Champion of Jupiter going hand to hand at speeds many there knew they could not get to even when pressed hard. The fact that Princess Airia, Mercury's Champion, was there and just watching with her computer link out seemed to tell them that this was a friendly match between the two, but to many it looked like an all out fight. This was until some of the watchers started to notice that many strikes that should have hit stopped short, and others that did were pulled or redirected by the thrower. Many could not believe what they were seeing one of the Champions was just sparring with someone and smiling about it. What many of them really took notice of was that it was Princess Keira Lana Jupiter that this man was sparring with.
Soon the two started to wind down the spar and can be seen slowing their moves before they both stopped, and shocked everyone there. The bow they gave each other was not one many expected, with him bowing low to the Jovan princess, but one where they recognized each other as basically equals. After the bow they both took a few minutes to stretch and fully cool down while Airia joined them and they started talking in a fairly friendly manner, further making those gathered wonder just who the new person was. It seems that the news of who Billy was and his status here has not made the rounds yet.
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As they got ready to start, Airia pulled out her computer link and set it up to record the action for future study. They started slow and ease, but soon they started to speed up and Airia found that even her own training could barely follow the action, looking at the computer link she noted that Kira was fighting at about 80% her normal level in combat. That meant that she was sparring at the lower end of her senshi granted abilities making her swallow hard realizing that the Queen had been right last night. I can't believe it, in an all out fight he could take me and Venus if he got in to close quarters combat with me or hand to hand with Miranda quickly enough. And maybe press Mars in close quarters too. Hearing it is one thing seeing proof that it is most likely true is something else. She kept watching and noticed the small crowed that formed on the other side of the field realizing that this spar would soon be all over the Palace, but there was nothing she could really do about that. She just kept watching the forms used and while she could easily recognize many of Kira's, many of the forms Billy used she had no idea of though the basic strikes she knew. Just not how he was stringing them into one whole… yet anyway.
When they started to slow down again on some unseen signal between the two she stayed clear until they actually stopped before approaching as they did some stretching to cool down properly. As she got closer she started speaking, ("Alright, now that I have my jaw back where it belongs, I have to say I am impressed Billy. Kiria here was going at about 80% her maximum ability and you were keeping up. I have only seen a couple of the more advanced guards and soldiers do that, it looks like what the Queen said last night is true. You could take a couple of the Champions in a fight. Personally, for me that is a frightening thought, as I am one of them.")
Slowing down his stretching to listen fully, Billy is surprised to hear this, mainly about being able to take some of the Champions. ("I find it hard to believe I would be able to take any of you, your position here would mean I should not be that good… or so I thought. If she was around 80% her full ability I was around, I think, 90 or 95%. I have never really been able to really gauge that as for the last few years just my parents, who trained me, have been able to really press me in training and sparring. Oh, and is it normal for others to stop their own work outs to watch a spar between two others here? Not that I mind, but is it normal?") Turning to Kira, ("Thank you for the practice spar Princess Kira, and for going easy on me.") Then bowing again to her before turning to talk to Airia again.
Kira had noticed that a couple of those watching had moved closer to try and hear what was being said better while listening to Airia and Billy, his second bow and thanks was said in a way to be clear beyond languages. So she return the bow saying ("I thank you for taking the time to demonstrate your own skill so I could compare it to mine.") before motioning to them that they should move along unless they wanted several others to listen in, and have a hard time following what was said due to the languages used and the translator not working that far out.
Once they had started walking again and Kira had pointed out a few other points of interest to Billy, she looked around and then stated, ("If you were sparring about the same level as me, then yes you would be able to take a couple of the other Champions Billy. I am one of the best we have at hand to hand combat currently we have four in our group at my level or better, the rest are better at tactical combat, or close quarters armed combat. If you got in close enough to them they would be in trouble real fast. Though our power boost we get from our position and mantles would even the field somewhat.")
Billy listens and looks around at the various locations pointed out making note of the ones he wanted to look at first when he had a bit more time, and less people following him. Even at a respectful distance… though that may be a few days and he may be gone by them. ("What? I never thought I was good enough, or at least advanced enough, to take on someone that was in a position such as you two and the others. Knowing that there are a few more than what I saw last night is good to know, but I still find it hard to believe I could possible take one of you in a fight. This power boost, how much of one is it as that may be the telling part.")
It was easy for them to tell that he was having a hard to realizing that what they were saying was in fact true, but he had a point on the power boost. Airia answered him here, ("It really depends on the Champion and the training they received before getting the mantle bestowed on them and their training after as well. Some like Kira and Demeter Uranus, Uranus's Princess and Champion, for example are always training and looking for new styles. A few others like me and Miranda Lara of Venus are a bit different, I am the tactical and strategic member of our team here and am better at longer ranges than close quarters and such, Miranda is our close quarters member, but while she trains in hand to hand combat she is about my level there. The power boost from the mantles we were gifted with for our position improves health, defense, attack, speed, agility, strength and a bit more. But each member receives a slightly different set of boosts. Does that help any? I can't be any more specific until the Queen says you are cleared.") She looks at him then Kira unsure if she stepped over the bounds or not, but in a way this is information they need on him as well. She just hoped she had not overstepped her position here.
Listening to her and then thinking for a bit Billy just nods before responding, ("It does but not fully and I understand not being able to say everything. I think that should any of you actually tag me with a solid hit on just about any part of my body, the fight would in effect be over as I doubt I can take the amount of damage you all seem to be capable of handing out in a fight. Though I may be quick enough to dodge, though I am not really sure there right now.") He looks at both of them shaking his head, ("And honestly I really don't want to find out unless we really, really have to. Besides fighting is also about experience as well as raw skill and ability and I am sure all of you have more experience that I do when it comes to real fighting and combat.") They both accept that the last bit is true, as far as they know.
They continue on in this way discussing fighting styles more than anything really, as well as the various locations around the guest wing, or as Billy joked at one point 'Guest Village, next to the palace' before coming around to the other side of the actual guest wing building and near the dining hall there as well as the tailors that the guest use here. When asked by Kira if he wanted to eat or get some more 'appropriate' clothing so he did not stand out as much, he picked some new clothing, then food.
Kira led them over toward the tailor's building and as they were getting ready to enter a reedy sort of man walks out the door rather quickly and bumps into Billy who was about to enter, to which the man starts to protest loudly that others should know their place and be more polite and so on. He never even gave Billy a change to say anything and the translator Airia had was only translating about one in four or five words for some reason. Even once Kira and Airia are able to make their presence known the man only seems to calm down make an excuse and a half hearted mumbled apology to them before stalking off with a parting shot about servants not knowing their betters here.
Billy just shrugs, ("I am guessing he is one of the visiting nobles here in the guest wing. Looks like I will need to stay out of their way for now at least. So how do we handle this? What do I need to do, stand still and let them measure me all over or do they have some things premade like a normal shop?")
Kira answers the questions as Airia seems to be trying to figure out the noble that just stormed off, ("Actually, yes to both. They can and do make things to order and have many things that are premade in various sizes from each planet but Terra, they are friendly but not really allied with us. So we should be able to get a few things right now, but you really should get the formal outfit made to order for the best effect, and may be later, if you have to stick around long enough, get something for a formal ball as the Queen host several each year for various reasons. Hey, Airia, what's wrong?") As they both notice that Airia has been shaking her head for some reason.
Clearing her throat first, ("That was a rather major noble from the Martian royal family, one that I have not ever seen here before, I was thinking that I need to talk to Rianna to find out more easily. Still let's get Billy here some new clothing and measured for a set of formal clothing for tomorrow's dinner at court.")
Billy just looks at the two of them before stating, ("I just hope that any clothing I get does not go to waste if I leave soon, as I have no idea if I can take anything like that with me. –sigh– Come on unless you two are really different from females back home you two may really want to 'look for cloths' so let's get inside.") And putting action to words he enters the shop with the two smiling girls behind him.
After spending some time looking over the items in the shop section Billy had picked out four sets of clothing, three of which were in a Lunarian styling but in colors that he liked, namely a darkish blue or green. The third set turned out to be in a Mercurian style but was also in a nice deep ocean blue color and pattern that just seemed to call to him. While looking around he noticed one more set on a far corner rack that seemed to have gotten little attention recently as the clothing seemed to be stiff from having been still a long time. Airia followed him over as Kira was looking over a selection from home at the time to see if there was anything she liked new in. The new set of a very deep blue, almost navy blue, but the pattern that was hinted at was hard to describe… almost like clouds of water or something else that tugged at his mind but would not come to the fore front to be identified. Still he took the set and looked at Airia, ("Well you getting anything here or is there nothing you like right now?")
("Nothing new in yet from Mercury, and nothing I really like from elsewhere right now. Most people stay away for designs from Saturn as the colors are usually very dark solids. I have never seen the style you just found before. Though if you are ready the tailor is waiting to take your measure for a formal outfit in Lunarian colors, sorry but as a friend of the House of the Moon that is the way it will be. The colors are usually lighter colors with a lot of white and silver trimming. Also if you have a family insignia it will be nice if you can describe it or draw it for them to add it on the shoulder.") Was her response, and she seemed to actually be bored here. Go figure Billy thought, before nodding to her.
("Just show me where to place these and then who I need to see for the rest of this stop. Oh, will you need to be with me or do they have a translator as well?")
After being led to the back of the shop and where the tailor was waiting, a somewhat quick measuring for a new set of Lunarian House clothing in, as Airia stated, it was to be in the colors used on Luna. White as the main and base color with silver trim, though the tailor was going to add in a few dark blue accents. At this point Billy started to describe his family's crest while stating it did not seem to follow normal rules for them back home, but then it was a combine crest from two different countries. His father was American with ancestors in Europe and his mother was Japanese.
The crest or shield that his family decided to use on things like clothing was a kite style shield with the top left corner removed in a crescent shape. In the middle of the shield was a tower in the honor point, above and to the right was a mortar and pestle, above the tower was two bows crossed and 4 arrows below; an English long bow and Japanese great bow, below the tower on the right was a pair of crossed swords; a long sword and a katana, on the left a book, scroll and quill with the scroll on the open book and the quill below, right under the tower was a dragon passant, and on the very bottom point was a unicorn passant. After taking the time to draw out the general design and letting the tailor get the symbols of the day, or supplying ones that he could draw, Billy was finally finished as Airia and Kira made sure items gotten today where on the Queens order and finally headed back out and toward the dining hall.
("Ah, before we get anything to eat, I was going to show you two how my camera works. I can give you a quick demonstration and maybe more later. But from what I have seen so far here I know that you have better items of your own.") As he is taking the camera out of the carry case and pointing out the basic controls while they move toward the dining hall. He ends the quick class on camera use with a short demo on how to actually use it and how you can preview the images on the small screen on back, or use it to actually take the picture instead of the eye peace above it. Airia seems rather interested while Kira finds it 'curious' more for how it works that what it actually does.
("Well what do you think of what you have seen so far? Also in this area is a theater and a few other shops, once it is found out how long you may be here the Queen will most likely either set you up with an account for the shops, or not if it will be very short. But please remember that there is a chance that you may be here awhile.") States Airia after comparing a picture from the camera and her portable computer, the one on the computer was in much higher detail of course, as they entered the dining area.
Kira shows Billy how to go about getting something to eat, and once Kira and Airia are noticed several of the people in the hall stand and bow to the two Princesses and Champions before returning to their meals and company. ("As you should be able to tell we don't normally eat here, so us being here will cause a reaction due to us being Champions and Princesses from our own planets.") Before finding an open table not to close to others to sit and continue talking. Both princesses comment about the camera controls and how they seem, to them, to be rather confusing.
("It seems that there is a lot to learn, but for now I will be happy if things work so I am able to head back sooner than later.") Starts Billy, and seeing Airia about to say something he continues, ("I know that may not happen as I would like Airia, but to stop hoping so quickly and easily would mean that I wanted this above all else. I do hope that IF I end up staying here that I can find a path for myself. I will miss my family if that comes to pass, so for now I am hopeful that I will see them again soon. Now to change the subject, I noticed that clothing here is more like breeches, tunics and some robe like items. Is this the norm here as I am use to pants and shirts that are made differently?") He tries to make it plain by his look that he knows the chances but wants to wait and see for now.
Kira answers first, ("Yes, they are and each planet has their own style and cut to them, the robes you saw are normally used by mages as they seem to allow better movement for spell casting. Also they are used as dress clothing by many or for very special occasions in some places. I noticed that you stuck to the simpler styles and patterns or sold colors, I personally like that style of dress when I am not required to wear more formal items.") She takes a deep breath and holds her hand up to stop Airia from speaking just yet as she had just started to. ("As to you going home, I understand not wanting to talk about it right now, but please understand that nothing like this has happened before that I have ever heard of so we have to wait on the one person that knows enough about this subject to give their report, a very simple and basic one should be presented tonight or tomorrow to the Queen but it will not be the final one, or the final say in what may happen there.")
Kira then motions to Billy and Airia to see who wants to speak next, Billy seems to be thinking about something so Airia speaks, ("I did not realize that you paid that much attention to things like this Kira, but you are right and I do hope there is good news on this soon.") She nods to Kira who just smiles back, ("But for now, as Kira stated each world has their own style and color sets, only Luna here does not have any real set colors except for the royal house, which is mainly bright colors close to white or silver, or with mostly one of those two colors in them. As Luna is like a hub of business and government for the most part there is a wide range of items and styles to be found here, some from each world besides Terra. We can discuss that later though.") She takes a breath and a bite of food then a drink before going on, Kira is mostly just listening and nodding her head as she eats now.
Billy is eating slowly while he listens, taking in the new information and linking it to things he already knows for easier recall later. ("I personally like soothing colors of any type, and flowing styles for the feel they give me. Both you two like simple styles and colors, are blues your favorite colors Billy?") She looks at him and waits for his answer, hoping that they have not been giving him too much information too quickly here, or that they have pushed too much about the displacement he has faced in getting here.
For his part, Billy slowly eats a bit more while gathering his thoughts before speaking, avoiding the subject of getting back home as he feels that they just wanted to be sure he understood their stand on that matter. ("Firstly, and this is all I will say for now on this till later, I do understand your points on what happened last night and want to wait for now. As for clothing I like things that or loose but not too loose on me for comfort and ease of motion. As for colors, yes, I like blues, usually in the darker hues, and greens in the same hues as for blues.") He takes another moment before asking a question, ("Can either of you suggest what I could do IF, and only if, I do end up staying here for a while? I know I have some skills and training that I may be able to use, but really what would I be able to do here to make a living as I do not wish to 'free load' on the House of the Moon. Yes I was given the Friendship of the House, but it is still a good idea to not abuse such things if you can help it.")
This question seems to have caught them both out as they both come very close to doing a classic spit take, Kira on her drink and Airia on her desert. Though Airia recovers first, ("While I am glad to see you are thinking of options in case they are needed let us wait till we have more information on this subject first then sit and talk about it. The fact that you asked this so soon after making it plan that you are not letting go of hope to get home is what caught me off guard.") Kira nods agreement to this and adds her own take.
("Learning and teaching are two things you can do, you do know some languages that may be useful sometime in the future, and I know I do want to learn more of your fighting style so working with the Champions is always a possibility. But Airia is right, let's wait a bit first, let you settle in if you do end up staying then sort that all out.") She stops and gets a thoughtful look as she take another drink, ("I would have thought that someone that was raised in a somewhat rich family would like to just relax and do very little but what they wanted if given the chance to.") She looks at him again, this time really looking at him and noticing the little things she missed before, small marks of scares and the way he holds himself, the things that mark someone who works for what they have and takes the good with the bad when they have to as well. She also notes that he seems to have gotten angry at her last few comments, but takes a moment to calm down before answering.
Before answering Billy takes and gets control of himself, as he is sure Kira did not mean to insult him with her comment, they are from way different cultures it seems. ("I have never just relied on someone else for things for any longer that I really had to, I am more than willing to work any job I can do no matter how lowly it may seem. One does not get to the levels of education and training I have by riding behind others. I am sorry if my words seem harsh but I believe that our cultures are very different, as I once had someone who did just that to others, used them for everything they could, try and latch on to me because I come from a well-off family. But my family has always been one that works for what they have, and instill that into their children, to earn their way. Yes, we will help others when needed but we will not take advantage of others assistance even when we need it, and do not allow others to 'free-load' on us even if we offer Friendship and assistance to them. We follow an old saying, 'Give a man a fish and he eats for a day, but teach him to catch fish for himself then he eats for life.' We try to follow that whether we are lending aid or receiving it. I know you where not trying to be patronizing or insulting but I guess I still need to learn more about controlling my feelings at times, but then this is still not what can be considered a normal event in my life.") He takes another deep breath and relaxes, ("I am sorry if I over stepped things in my response but it seems I am not as settled or as calm as I had hoped I would be right now. I mean you are trying to help me.")
Kira just nods, then responds ("I did forget that our cultures are so different as you are easy to get along with, so no problem. I also understand how you could be unsettled, as that was how I was when I first arrived on the moon shortly after training and gaining my position… But that is really something to discus elsewhere. Though I feel I need to warn you that the formal outfit you were fitted for will be used for a biweekly, or weekly, dinner with the Queen and the Guardians that are on Luna at the time. As these diners are done 'in court' there may be others there from other noble or royal families so please do try and stay calm then.") She smiles to try and take any hurt from her words, though there was none he could find, just a new friend trying to help who made a simple mistake before. Airia had looked like she was going to intervene but just smile herself and relaxed.
The three of them finish their meals and head back toward Billy's quarters to drop off the new clothing before maybe looking around a few more places as both of them had the entire day to work with and talk to him, to start the settling in process. Or to just be friendly in case he leaves sooner than later. They pass through an area that turns out to be small conference halls and meeting rooms before rejoining the main hall and a short time later they are back at his door, on the door is a name plate that Airia points out, ("This was placed here today and will remain here till you leave or are moved to other quarters. It is your name and station in Lunarian, with your station being 'Friend of the House of the Moon'. Shall we put your new clothing away, and you may want to change into some of them for now.")
On entering the room, there is a light flashing on the desk across the room, which Kira says means you have a waiting message, she then goes about showing him how to view the message. She nearly falls over when the image that comes up is the Queen herself speaking, though the message is in English even though she seems to be speaking Lunarian.
("Greetings Mr. Rhodes-Tenashi, I seem to have missed you, Princess Airia and Princess Kira during lunch. I would like to talk to you in person this afternoon around 4:30 or 5pm, I have something for you and to talk for a short time about things that the Princesses may not have been able to speak of, if you have questions in that area. Please have them, or one of them, show you to my private meeting chamber off the throne room. The closer to 4:30 the better as that will give us more time to talk.")
Kira just stairs at the place where the image was, ("Whoa, I have never seen the Queen personally invite someone to a private chat before. She usually has the message delivered by a messenger.")
("Well as she was using a translator crystal, she would have needed to be the one to send the message, or at least record it, so that it would have been in Billy's language. She can control the translators and actually speak without you there and still have them work like this for messages. Still it is unusual for her to have not recorded it and sent a messenger to find us. It is almost 4:30 now as we took our time eating and getting back here so Billy please go and get cleaned up if you need to and dress in the Mercurian outfit as it is more along the lines of what you should wear when greeting a monarch.") Airia counters and during the last half was looking right at Billy. Though she does have a slightly curious look about this as well.
Billy Just nods and heads to the bathroom, taking the new outfit suggested with him and leaving the rest on the bed, with what seems to be the rest of the clothing he had out cleaned and pressed and ready to be put away. For some reason he has a feeling that this meeting will not be the bearer of good news about getting home as soon as he would like.
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After a very quick rinse and change of clothing into the outfit Airia suggested. Billy is finishing fixing his hair as he walks out of the bathroom and notices that both Airia and Keira have somehow cleaned up as well, though their outfits have not changed. He just shrugs and chalks it up to magic somehow.
("OK I'm as ready to meet the Queen again as I'm going to get right now. Shall we go?") Billy says while putting down the brush and pulling his hair back into a ponytail that he quickly ties off at the base of his skull, where the neck and head join.
Keira just nods as she and Airia head to the door. ("Yes, we need to go so that we can try and arrive at 4:30 as I think it might just take some time to go over things. Just please remember Queen Serenity is doing all she can to help but we do not know everything about just how you arrived, yet.") She has what Billy thinks is a worried look as they head down the hall toward the meeting.
Airia nods and places her hand on his shoulder before speaking, ("I am sure that the Queen will give you a translator and maybe one of the various items used to denote a friend of the realm. She may have more information about getting you home by now as well.") Left unsaid but her touch conveyed clearly, no matter what the news tonight she and Keira would be there as friends.
They had soon left the guest wing and were headed toward the main part of the palace where the throne room was located. The closer to the heart of the palace and seat of an Empire the more security was seen, mainly in the form of guards stationed along the halls and such. After turning a corner, a set of large double doors could be seen at the end of the new hall, and stationed in front of them was a young lady in a white and red fuku.
Upon seeing her both of his guides look relieved and once they are close enough Airia speaks, ("Mars, I am glad to see that there is one guard here. I was worried somewhat that something else had come up. Still, that can wait, the Queen has requested our presence and Mr. Rhodes-Tenashi for a private discussion.") To which Keira nods when Mars looked her way. When she looked at Billy he nodded as well.
Mars then speaks, ("I know of the invitation as I am to join you and Venus is already with the Queen waiting.") She turns and motions to someone that is out of sight before two armored soldiers step out of an alcove and take positions on either side of the double doors while a third person steps out and takes the place Mars had been standing before they arrived. The third was wearing light armor over what Billy guessed was a normal uniform. Once the new guards were in position the one in front of the doors turned and opened one to allow the now party of four to enter.
Once they passed through the doors and they were closed, Billy got his first view of the throne room. The room itself circular with a dome ceiling that had skylights positioned around the outer most quarter near the walls. Somehow all the light in the room not only lit the room well but also highlighted the dais with the throne on it in a gentle halo of light. As he noticed the murals on the walls Mars had already moved forward and was about half way to the central dais when Keira touched his shoulder and said that they needed to move or they would keep the Queen waiting.
Airia then added, ("We called ahead and told the Queen we would be here at 4:30 and we now only have a couple of minutes left. You will get a change to looks around at the history displayed here later.") She gives a small smile in apology to rushing right now.
Billy nods ("It is never a good idea to keep the leader of a people waiting, so yes let's go on.") They can tell he is more nervous now than before. He sees their looks toward him as they cross the room and past the dais and takes a deep breath to calm the case of nerves that just jumped him before offering a remark. ("It just hit me on seeing the throne room that the kind and compassionate person I met last night is in fact THE Queen of this realm. One who has promised to help me as best she can. Whom I promised on my family's oaths and honor to do the same in return. And the one I'm heading to a private meeting with.") He takes another breath and continues as they reach the door that Mars is holding open for them.
("I also just spent most of the day talking with and being shown around the guest area by two of her agents, or Champions, that I was treating like friends. I know this is how you want things, but everything started to sink in and I'm just hoping that I'm really up to dealing with things at this level is all.") Finishing as he finally notices that they are in a somewhat small room with several comfortable looking chairs and loungers, but he also notices the two already in the room, the one wearing the orange and white fruku from last night and the queen herself in her pure white gown but this time with a silver gold tiara with a small upward peak of a diamond surrounding a golden upturned crescent moon on her forehead.
As Mars states that they are all present now, Billy takes and formally bows to the Queen. His actions take the others off guard and as Airia starts to state that he does not need to do this in a private meeting, the Queen stands and returns the bow. ("Mercury is correct though, in this setting a formal acknowledgement is not needed. But, if what I heard as you four entered here is right you are starting to feel out of your depth here. Only time will help with that. Please sit as we have a few things to talk about including the short report I was given just before midday about what happened and if we can reverse it.") She motions toward the seats and retakes her own seat in a nice armchair. There is also some drinks on the central table, one of which Airia offers him with a look that clearly says 'relax.'
("I'm sorry, your highness, but while I may be from a well-off family, I have never yet been in the presence of a ruler of a realm and feel that events of last night do not really count mainly due to how things happened. As you said it will take time to adjust, time I may or may not have.") Taking the drink Airia offered him and taking a sip, he found that the drink cool and the flavor soothing even as he could not place it. Mars had taken a position near the door but was now motioned to join them.
("Both Mars and Venus are still on duty tonight, but I will introduce Princess Miranda Lara of Venus and Princess Rianna Rei Mars. You already know Princesses Airia dame Mercury and Keira Lana Jupiter from today. As you have noticed many of the rulers of a world take their family name from the world they rule. I am no different, Queen Serenity Moon. Now before we get fully into the main part of this meeting I would like to give you a few items.") She opens a small box on the table in front of herself and removes three items; a silver and gold head band, a uniform shoulder tassel of silver and gold also, and a necklace with a crystal pendant. She places them on the table before closing the box and then speaking again.
("These items are for you and from what we know at the moment, if you can wear something or have it in one of your bags you can take it back with you. The first item is this head band. It marks you as a friend of the House of the Moon and can be worn with any outfit. Though you may need to get use to wearing it.") She passes the head band to him and he is able to see the front of it clearly now. A golden upturned crescent moon on a silver backing with the arms that go around the head made to look like gold and silver twisted cords. Next she picks up the tasseled cord.
("This is normally worn on a uniform or dress outfit and fills the same role as the head band. They can be worn together. A little more information on this item.") She holds up the cord, ("Worn on the left side is a friend only, worn on the right is a friend and ally. I will let you decide how to display it.") Like before she hands it to Billy who notices the upturned crescent moon on the tassel knot.
("To be sure I have that correct, both shoulders show I'm a Friend of the Moon but on the right I'm stating that I'm allied to you as well. As such there may be more I can be asked to do, but that you can do for me as well. Correct, your highness?") As he placed the cord on the table in front of himself.
("Yes, that is so. While you do not have much experience with rulers and governments you do seem to understand things well enough. Now this necklace is the translator for you. It will only work at a range of two to three meters but that should be enough normally. Though I have adjusted it so that announcements and communications will be translated for you as well.") She hands over the necklace and he puts it on directly after looking it over. ("The crystal does not need to be out to work. So you can wear it under your clothing usually. I will also ask that you wear the head band everywhere for now also.")
She takes a breath as Billy carefully puts on the head band. Everyone including Billy notice the golden flash once he has the head band on. Airia and Keira start in about what happened while Mars and Venus look on curious. The Queen holds up a hand to stop the questions while Billy removes the head band and looks at it carefully. ("I am sorry, I forgot to mention that the head band will set itself to you in a few ways. One way of course is so it fits you correctly and easily. The others are varied, As long as you wear it any scan of you will return as friendly to us but anyone else wearing it will be marked as an imposter. It will also get warm when you enter or approach an area you are not allowed in, as well as alerting security that you may be lost. This was my fault as it is new, we use to only use the tassel cord and you are the first to get the head band. I had forgotten about those features.") She waits for him to see if he has any questions now or if he will put it back on.
He shrugs and replaces the head band on his brow. "I understand what I was just told about this band and have no reason to question it right now. Though I'm more concerned with getting home, Mercury and Jupiter have made sure that I understand that might not happen as soon as I hope." He raises his hand seeing that Airia and Keira were both about to say something about names. "I know you said to use your personal names but we are not truly in private right now. But, your highness, I am hoping for good news on that item." He returns his attention to the Queen, who he notices has a somewhat sad expression on her face. Oh boy, this is not going to be good.
Sighing somewhat sadly the Queen responds, ("Even here, if the Princesses are not in uniform,") She indicates Mars and Venus, ("Or in formal wear use their given names, please. Only in an area with others do you need to use 'Princess' or the Guardian title.") She then takes a breath to help her order her thoughts before finishing her answer. ("As I am sure you have already gathered, the news I have, while not truly bad, is not the best. Right now Guardian Pluto, the realms expert on the time stream and such, is checking something she noticed during her investigation so far. And if this item, which she has not told me what it is yet, is correct we may not be able to send you back for a time. I am hoping she reports back soon so we can move forward, till she does…") She stops speaking as a door on the other side of the room opens and a woman wearing a very dark green and white fuku enters, stops to look around at those present, then resumes her approach but not toward the Queen.
("Pluto, I was not expecting you just yet. Do you have more information for us?") Serenity states and asks while taking in just who Pluto is approaching.
Pluto steps up next to the table besides where Billy is sitting before she speaks, ("I do your highness, and I wanted to give the information in person this time.") Even before the Queen could respond, Pluto kneels and faces Billy. She bows her head when she starts to speak, lifting it to look him in the eye as she speaks.
("I am sorry to report that at this time we Can Not send you home. This is because, I believe, of the way you were sent here. The fact that Temptress had to over ride her own safety protocols to save you lead me to check for a link or connection. There is one, but unless Temptress recalls you we cannot use it, as for us to do so would mean risking your life with over 96% chance of the attempt failing and your death as the temporal forces pulled you apart.") She paused here to gauge his response, and though she could see the hurt and pain in his eyes, she also sees understanding.
("Until the connection fades or Temptress recalls you we can only wait and move on with other things. The link is fading, but slowly, and may take weeks or even years to vanish. Temptress sent a data dump that included the fact that her systems were damaged during this. Under her protocols, up to and including destruction of her systems were acceptable in this case. I will keep looking into this for other possibilities.") She turns to the Queen, ("I will have all the details on how long for this connection to fade in about four or five days, and yes that is taking time to rest else I would have said two or three days.") With that she stands, bows to the Queen and then deeply to Billy before leaving the way she came. No-one there really knew what to say, as one of the worst case scenarios had come to pass.
After a few moments, he takes a deep breath and asks, ("Is there anything else for this afternoon your highness? If not I really would like some time to myself to get my thoughts and emotions back under control.") All of them in the room can see that the news they all just heard has really hit Billy hard though he is doing his best not to break down.
("I was hoping that the report on Pluto's findings would have had better news for us. All I have that needs to be said now is that, even with the news just received, I need you to attend the court luncheon tomorrow. Please do not close us out, I know that Ryo, Airia, Keira, and the rest will be there if you just want to talk, or spar. Yes, I heard of your and Keira's match today. Some many saw it that it was a major topic for awhile here. –sigh– Please take the time you need Billy. Besides tomorrow there is nothing I can think of that would need you present, I will have a copy of Pluto's report sent to you. The main path for getting you home seems to be closed at this time, but there may be other ways, we will see what can be found but the search will take time. While you are a named friend of my House, I do hope we can become real friends.") After her sigh the Queen had gotten up and move next to Billy and the squatted down next to his chair. As she finished she again gave him a kiss on the forehead very much like a mother comforting her child.
("Airia, Keira please make sure that Billy gets back to his quarters as I do not think he knows the way just yet and he seems to be in no condition to ask for assistance right now.") Looking at something Billy can't see from his seat the Queen shakes her head before mentioning that she has twenty minutes before a meeting with Zeac Mars. She does not really seem to want to meet them.
Mars gives a small smile to her Queen ("Highness, Zeac, while a great administrator and military commander, is not a very good people person. Though his heart is normally in the right place.") As she stands and heads toward the door. Venus seems to find something about the last comment funny, though her giggles do seem strained.
Venus steps over and places a hand on Billy's shoulder, ("You do have friends here, even if we just met. We will be there as much as we can.") Giving his shoulder a squeeze before she follows Mars out the door saying she will be right back after checking the security around the throne room.
Airia and Keira come over and help Billy up. ("You both mentioned that I may end up here for a while, you were nice about it. But you tried to get me to accept that this may happen… Thank you your highness, I should be at least calmed down in a day or two. I will be there tomorrow as well.") He bows to the Queen, not as formally as before more like out of reflex before going with them. But the Queen calls Keira back for a minute.
Keira catches back up at the main doors to the throne room as they pass Mars she has a gentle smile as she reaches out and gives his arm a soft touch saying something that the translator does not translate as they pass. Airia says that Mars had said, in Martian, that friends stand by each other in times of need. ("Let us get you back to your quarters so you can rest or meditate for a while. I will leave my, Keira's, Reanna's, and Miranda's comm. accounts on your system so you can easily contact us if need be. I will also see about adding Sergeant Ryo's as well, I will just need to find it first.") She seems to talk a lot when worried but she did not seem to ramble at least.
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Once they had returned to his quarters, his new home here for who knows how long he thought, Billy thanked them and said he wanted to be alone for a while. Both just nodded even as Airia went over to the desk with the comm. system in it to enter the information she mentioned on the way back. She finishes by pointing out she had used symbols for them, the same ones that appeared on the forehead of a Guardian or possible guardian and was surprised when he told her that each one was known back home, though only scientist and such normally used them now.
After nearly an hour of attempting to meditate and failing as he can't keep his mind calm and thus not being able to relax well enough to enter the needed state, Billy gives up on meditation at this time and heads out toward the training fields after changing into his Gi. His Gi was a gift from his family about a year ago when he had finally took and passed the final mastery test that his mother and father had made for the combined family style, it had the family crest on the right side of the chest and on the right shoulder, on the left shoulder and left side of the chest was a symbol that he did not recognize till his father told it was an exploding star, a nova, rendered like most of the planets and moons had symbols. The back of the Gi had a picture that his imoto has designed. A Phoenix with wings spread wide, tail feathers flared and looking as if it had just taken off toward the person viewing it. Around the Phoenix was an odd looking dragon, it looked to be made of ice and water and his sister had said it was an Ice Dragon. Fire and Ice, hot and cold just like he fought. Thinking of his family was actually helping calm his mind down somewhat.
Once he arrived at the fields and finding them mostly empty, Billy moves to one side takes a centering breath and starts on his style's slower and basic katas to help him center. Once his face and stance start to relax and his movements become more and more fluid his katas pick up speed slowly as he moves into the intermediate moves of his Art. These moves form the core of his families combined style and are the foundation for the higher and mastery katas and combinations. His style merged several Asian styles with a couple European ones and while did not need weapons, weapons could be incorporated easily and quickly into many of the katas and combos. Billy had realized early in this practice that he was not going to be able to fully calm himself he started on the higher and more advanced moves he knew and worked on control, speed, and precision.
The few people out on the training fields had at first taken a look and then went about their own activities after noticing the head band he wore. That is until he started moving at speed with power, skill, and grace matched by only the best fighters and warriors, or the Guardians of the Realm. A couple that had been out earlier in the day finally recognized this unknown man and started quietly telling others about the spar he had had with the Princess of Jupiter earlier. Some off duty guardsmen had been passing through, or just using the fields so as not to need to worry about a lot of others practicing at the same time and place as them, were now also watching, and a couple of these were also present during the search and location the night before.
Also watching, either in person or on a security monitor, are Mars, Venus, Keira, and Airia. Mars and Venus being on duty meant that they can only watch from security stations next to where they are stationed, while Airia and Keira were watching from nearby on the fields. Airia again had her portable computer system out and was recording the action. As he started on the faster and more precise moves, even Keira took a breath in surprise, mainly because all of a sudden he had started adding in other movements, the style becoming much more mobile and acrobatic. Moving from land to midair quickly and with almost the same fluidity as before.
("Some of these moves are incredible! If he had been using them before I doubt I would have been able to keep up without using my full abilities. I really hope that we stay friends as I see having to fight him as an enemy as something that would see me end up in the medical bay even if I win.") Keira now understands what the report they had gotten from Temptress really meant. This guy was good and seemed to be smart enough to be able to keep up with Airia most of the time. To her that combination; skill, ability, intelligence, and power, made him dangerous as an enemy or a great potential ally.
Airia was watching next to her and trying to figure out how to counter some of these new moves and coming up with nothing currently. Thank the powers that be that we did not have to fight him last night. These new moves in close quarters where he could change directions quickly would have seen me, Venus and maybe Mars in medical if he got in close. Keira would have been hurt but I think she could have taken him down. The other guards, I don't think they would have survived unless they worked together.
("Keira, his style is one that confined spaces, like last night, or locations with a lot of obstacles in them would make him a very dangerous opponent. The speed and control he is showing here along with his new style of movement makes him hard to counter. But he did make a valid point or two before. If we can get a good hit in on him the fight is over as he does not have our protections, and we have combat experience that he does not. Two things that are greatly in our favor in a fight. Though I would rather not face him in anything but a spar.") They both keep watching him though he seems to be coming to the end of his practice.
As he finishes the last few moves and comes to a stop facing toward the Earth on the horizon, he holds his final position for a short while before dropping his hands and standing up straight before bowing toward the Earth. As he turns to leave, anyone watching can see that he is still deep in thought about something. Watching from the security station monitors Mars and Venus agree with their team mates Billy is not someone they wanted to fight, even with their increase abilities and experience.
Chapter 3 Fin