Displaced

by Slie Amos

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. So Displaced in time can a young college grad make a new life and can he... (Rating adjusted due to planed events in future chapters.)

4. Chapter 04, Settling In part 1

Displaced

Chapter 4: Settling In, part 1

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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…

As he finished the last few moves and came to a stop facing toward the Earth on the horizon, he held his final position for a short while before dropping his hands and standing up straight before he bowed toward the Earth. As he turned to leave, anyone watching could see that he is still deep in thought about something. Watching from the security station monitors Mars and Venus agreed with their teammates Billy was not someone they wanted to fight, even with their increase abilities and experience.

Chapter 4: Settling In, Part 1

After watching Billy practice and seeing that he seemed to be feeling more balanced, Airia returned to the Queen, after making sure that her meeting with Zeac Mars had ended first.

When she greeted the Queen in the sitting room, they had used for the meeting she took a breath before starting.

)"Your Highness I had an idea about how we may be able to help Billy settle in here."( As they were in a non-formal location, she went on without waiting to be asked.

)"Is there some way to locate someone that may be able to be like an adopted sister for him, or just someone young enough that he could be a mentor to? I feel that this would help him calm down and adjust to being away from his family."( She took a breath but was now unsure how to precede, an unusual position for her.

Serenity just looked at her Champion as she fidgeted slightly and seemed not to know where to take her idea. She smiled realizing that this is one of the few times Airia has acted before researching something at least a little. She thought the idea was a good one but felt that it should wait so it is not like they are trying to replace his family in any way.

)"Your idea is a good one, but I will stress caution here. He is already wary of me from this afternoon and the last thing we need, him as well, is for anything to be pushed too far right now. If we did find someone that could be like an adopted sister to him, he may feel like we are working against his getting home and not that we are just trying to help him settle, though someone he may be able to be a mentor to might work. Just give him some time before anything is done first. Airia just be his friend for now, that is what I am asking all of the Champions, even the ones not currently here."( She leaned back and sighed, muttering something.

Airia thought about this and nodded but caught some of the mutter and what she mentioned at the start of her comment. )"What do you mean he is wary of you right now and that he is not what you really expected? Why would he be wary and what did you expect? As you have placed me as his main contact to you for now and most likely teacher for language and some other things, I need to know in case this may affect how he responds to us now."( She hoped she had not overstepped anything, even here Serenity was still her Queen and ruler, informal as the setting was.

Serenity sighed again this time because she had forgotten how sharp Airia's hearing really was. )"He noticed that I had not really forgotten to mention the functions of the circlet I handed him. He may have accepted what I said but he is now wary of me. I need to try and balance helping him against the realm and my subjects but that means there will be times I will have to act for the realm and not him. And with him not being used to dealing with people in my position it will not always be easy. I will ask you not to mention this to him unless he outright asks you about it, if he mentions it, give him your opinion on why but not what I just told you. At least not yet."( She got up and got a drink from a cabinet at the side of the room and asked Airia if she wanted anything as well.

Airia indicated she was fine and watched her Queen realizing again that there are parts to being a ruler that must not be all that enjoyable even in private like this. )"Forgive me for asking this your highness, but why not offer at least a simple reason and apology to him for that event? I am sure he would be able to understand, he seems very intelligent as me and him have discussed the events around his arrival here and we had very few problems. When he did not understand something I mentioned he asked and I was able to break it down for him. Just from today, me and Keira agree that he was raised to be smart, kind, and helpful. He is also used to working hard and earning things. But he is unbalanced now and not sure what to do here. I am just trying to help someone I feel is going to be an excellent friend, and maybe ally."( She looked to her Queen and found her smiling at her, Airia actually blushed muttering, )"You look like my mother when she thinks she has found a suitor that I will like…"(

Airia snapped her head up with a look of shock on her face. )"Please My Queen, tell me you are not thinking of that, my first duty is to you and the realm, a betrothal is not in his or the realm's best interest right now. Please My Queen…"( She was all but pleading at the end ready to get on her knees if need be.

The Queen kept her face serious, but with a smile that would do a cat in a creamery proud, before letting the mirth show in her eyes and causing Airia to sink into her chair in both relief and chagrin as she realized that her Queen had just had a go at her. Serenity handed her Champion a drink before speaking again.

)"First relax, I would never engage you to someone without first talking to you and your parents on the matter beforehand. Second, that step would hurt our case far more than finding someone to be like a little sister to him. And I do have an idea there, but they will not be on the moon for several more months yet so that can wait for now. Third, you touched on why he is not like what I expected. He is well trained in fighting but lacks real combat experience, which may cause issues later if he allies with us. He is also very highly educated and yet not someone that looks down on others like many who have money and education sometimes do. He sees himself as just another person, but from the report Temptress sent I was expecting some pampered mid-level noble or the like. What we got is a person that has all the trappings of a mid to high-mid level noble without all the issues and airs such normally have. And, lastly, for now anyway. He needs friends more than anything, friends that can help him adjust, teaching him things he needs to know about us and the realm, and friends that can help him get that training and experience he needs but currently lacks. As to your suggestion of an apology over how I handled the circlet I will consider it, though I can see that such an act would not hurt in this case. I believe that we all need to get some rest I do have several meetings tomorrow before the luncheon and I want you to talk to Billy in the morning as nothing more than a friend and try to help him see things from our side of this, please."( With that Serenity got up and moved toward the other door in the room.

Airia nodded, then stood and gave a slight bow as she too left the meeting room. Thinking about all that she had learned just now and understanding just how far they had to go still. Things had already shown that a level field had not yet been reached since the events of the other night. But she could now see the work needed to find that level, but also for it to be really stable once found may take a far bit of work by everyone involved. Yawning, she finally realized just how tired she really was and followed her Queen's suggestion and headed to bed.

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Fairly early the next morning Billy was up and doing some stretching and simple exercises to wake up and before heading out to do his morning practice. The air here was not really chill in the mornings like he was used to from home, but the morning practice woke him up fully like normal, though he was still having problems centering but nothing like last night.

Once he was back, he showered and dressed in the outfit Airia had mentioned was from Saturn. Liking the feel and fit of the outfit he did a few basic kata and found that the outfit worked well and flowed as he moved. About this time someone knocked on his door and he moved to open it, finding Iria there with a tray of food.

("Thank you Iria, and good morning. Please come in and place the tray on the table. Is there anything you need to do, or I need to do for later?") Billy stated and asked, while moving to allow Iria entry.

She just smiled, ("Not right now, but if you are going to be out for a while today, please press the green button next to the door so that I will know and can stop by and see if anything needs to be cleaned. Leave anything for cleaning either in the hamper in the bathroom or on the bed and it will be returned after it is cleaned. If you have a request for anything to eat, please let us know and we will try to accommodate it. If it is not something we know of, if you have the information on how it is prepared that would be nice. Other than that, there is nothing I can think of needing to be done. As before please just leave the tray on the table just outside the door when finished. I hope your day is a good one Billy. I need to head out to help some of the others right now.") She gave a very simple and fast curtsy at that and smiled before leaving and closing the door behind her.

Billy just smiled at how she was acting, almost like one of the maids that his parents hired when they found out that they were considered more like a friend than a servant. This thought saw him dropping his smile and sighing. How long will it take to adjust and start to fit in here, though I do hope I never stop wanting to get back home.

A few minutes later, there was another knock at the door. This time it was Airia dressed in what had to be a casual outfit from Mercury. She also had a small smile and what he thought was hope in her eyes. After inviting her in and asking if she had eaten yet they sat, and she did take a couple pieces of a melon like fruit while she thought.

("I know you need to accept what happened yesterday, but I want to make sure you know that I and the other Champions are all willing to listen and help as best we can. Also, I had a chance to speak with the sergeant from the other night, she will help as best she can as well. Though that will need to wait a couple weeks, they broke protocol in how they approached you and are under disciplinary action right now. Nothing bad just extra manual work for several days.") She looked to him for his response and hoped he was willing to talk, at least a little, about yesterday evening's events.

Billy, for his part, listened to her and then finished chewing the current bite of some sort of omelet that had a nice flavor before speaking. ("Yes, things did not go as I hoped. -sigh- Even now I have thoughts coming to me that while good and happy are making me really want to get home. What is really hurting is the fact that I can't even call them to help with what I call 'homesickness', which is the strong feeling of needing to go back home and be with my family. It is not something that will go away quickly or easily and only time will help ease it. How do you deal with that?")

("The way you more than likely did when you could, I call home or send messages more often than not if I am busy. That helps but it is best when they visit me, or I can return home for a short time. I know that none of that is an option for you so myself, Keira, Rianna, Miranda and the others are willing to be friends to at least help when we can. That is if you will let us. We cannot force you to accept us in any way.") The look in her eyes as she looked at him was asking him to let them be friends and help that way at least.

He finished up the meal that was brought, with Airia having a few more melon pieces as well. ("I know I will need friends if I am going to find a way to fit in here easily and I will accept those that have offered for now. Though I am sorry that Ryo has to undergo a punishment over my arrival, I know enough about the military back home to know why it is being done. Better learn a lesson now that suffer greatly or die the next time if the one they find is not friendly. Though I need to ask, why did the Queen not tell me what the circlet was going to do and why before I put it on?")

Airia sighed but answered as best she could without mentioning that the Queen knew he had caught that. ("The Queen has to balance the realm and her subjects' needs with her aid to you, while she can help you easily, she will not hide that fact from the people of the realm. So, I believe she did that to make sure you really were not a danger to us. Personally, I agree that she could and should have said something about the circlet when it was handed to you. Also, along that line Pluto must have really felt bad that she could not help you right now to act the way she did, her position is a major one and she is usually somewhat aloof because of it. And no, I cannot say what her position is other than it pertains to the very security of the realm and all of the people in it. This is something that I also feel will not be solved right now and we need to let it just rest for a short time before approaching it again, please.") She was not begging him but hoping that he would let the subject drop for a bit so that the Queen could hopefully make an apology that would help smooth the way to a better relationship between the Queen and the House of the Moon's newest Friend.

Billy got up and moved the tray to the waiting table so it could be picked up and returned to his seat before just nodding to Airia's suggestion. Seeing her relax told him that she was worried about that point as well, but her position as a Champion of the realm meant that she had to support her Queen right now.

("Ok, let's move away from that item for now so is there anything that you wanted to talk about besides that?")

Airia nodded, ("Yes, I watched your practice session last night after the meeting along with Keira and I will say that you are very skilled in hand-to-hand combat even if you do not have actual combat experience as you say. The way you started moving and then using some of the stationary exercise equipment made me glad we did not have to fight before. In close quarters like where you were that night, that new movement style would have been hard to overcome and predict. Once you do get real combat practice and such you will be a great warrior.") She looked at him with a rather serious expression but at the same time, that small smile of hers was back.

He just smiled and gave a very small laugh, ("While I am a master of my family's fighting style, to gain complete mastery I have to make changes to it without really changing it. Make it my own, so to speak as both my parents see that as a mark of someone that has truly mastered a style. I am working on adding elements of gymnastics and acrobatics to aid in movement and in some attacks. Though the integration is going a little slower that I would like.") They continued talking about the styles of fighting that they had both been trained in for a bit before Billy asked a question to Airia.

("Can you tell me about your family, as a family not monarchs or rulers? I will try and do the same in return, as it seems talking to you like this has been helping me rebalance and I hope that something as simple as this and getting to know a new friend better will help a little more.")

Her smile at this question was really the only answer needed though she did provide one, ("Sure, and as it has been a while sense I talked to my own parents it may help me as well. Maybe later I will at least write to them. That's an idea, why don't you write letters to your family, even if you can't send them it may help at times to get things back in perspective for you. And maybe help you explain things about this when you do get home.")

He smiled at the thought of talking to his sister about all this and what she may say about some of it. ("That may work, even a journal of things to help keep things from getting away from me at times. So first off, about your family, then we can compare them to mine…")

Airia nodded and then started talking about her parents and how they tried to treat her and her two siblings the same and did their best just to raise a family even though they also had to be rulers and such. Thus, adding a further layer to the family, then her becoming the Champion of Mercury adding yet another. With Billy responding about his parents doing the same with him and his sister, how they had to balance that with owning a growing business that was starting to have some international request and explaining what he meant by 'international'. They continued this way for a couple hours before Airia seemed to jump a little and then pulled out her portable computer which was vibrating.

("I had an alarm set in case we got to talking and not watching the time like we did. We need to get ready for the Luncheon, as it starts in about an hour. Has your formal outfit arrived yet? I can check on it if you want?") She was already typing out a command when someone knocked at the door.

Billy nodded to Airia and went to the door to find Iria holding up the outfit just mentioned. ("Ah hello, I remembered that you had gotten this, but it had not been sent yet and went to check on it for you, Billy. Yes, I know of the luncheon today, so here go and get ready and I will tidy up while you are there.") Handing the outfit to him as she talked before turning and heading back down the hall.

As he shut the door, Airia came over to look at the outfit, ("Very nice, though I think the Queen requested this style as it is very much like the style used by the Moon Royal Family. That makes a very big statement as only the royal family has personal accents in a different color like is on yours. That dark blue makes a great contrast to the white and silver.") She was also feeling the material at the right shoulder before continuing, ("Nice and soft though I think the jacket is a treated leather material I am not really into fashion unless it is something I personally like. So where are you going to put the tassel for now?") Though she felt she knew.

("For now, on the left, I need to get a better feel for things and all. Plus, no offense to you and the Queen, not mentioning about the circlet yesterday has me wary of committing to fast right now.") Though he did look her in the eye while stating his intent and why.

Airia nodded and said nothing, just agreeing with her nod. She took a breath and then spoke, ("I do understand, I guess I am surprised but then you are from a totally different place and time and have no reason to outright trust everything right now. I better go and get ready as well, and please remember to call me Princess Airia later as this is a formal affair.") To which he nodded and saw her out before going about getting ready himself.

Once he was ready to get dressed, he took a good look at the outfit. It was styled much like a military uniform from home though the shirt was a tunic and the jacket more of an over tunic in design and it did seem to be some form of well-treated leather. Everything was white as the main color, with silver trim and dark blue accents and a few other highlights. His family crest was on the left shoulder while another was on the right the main part of that one was a golden upturned crescent moon with a few smaller items he could not make out around it.

Just as he was beginning to worry about where to go for this luncheon and as he was putting his hair back into a ponytail someone knocked again at his door. It turned out to be Airia, but he did not recognize her at first. Her dress was simple but elegant and it fitted her perfectly. Going to her ankles and up to her neck but it left her arms and shoulders bare, though there was a very small amount of material over her right upper arm that connected to the broach that held a neck strap in place at the hallow at the top of her sternum. There was another wrap of material attached to her right hip and flowed down and around her left leg before returning to the right hip and the buckle there. The entire dress was in a lovely deep blue that reminded Billy of the deep oceans, the material over her arm and wrapped around her leg was of a lighter shade of the same blue. Besides a couple of simple golden earrings Airia had on no jewelry but a dark blue fingerless wrist glove with silver trim was on her left hand.

She smiled at the look he gave her when he recognized her, and his whispered 'you look stunning' made her happy. ("This is a state function so we do need to look the part, it was going to be a dinner party but some of the people that are here could not make it and so it was changed to a luncheon so they could get back to their jobs elsewhere. Did you have any titles at home? If not, I will let them know to call you 'Sir' for now as your family crest marks you as a warrior, a healer, a scholar, and a protector; and that is just from the items I can figure out. Come we need to go so we are not late.") She took his arm and pulled him out the door, after making sure he had everything he wanted to take today. Though he did go back in and get his camera and took a picture of her before leaving for the luncheon.

("I just had to get a picture of you in that dress. I did not recognize you at first just then and you are very beautiful right now Princess.") He offered her his left arm and she placed her right arm around and on his offered one while smiling at his comment and complement.

("Even though today was set as a state dinner then changed, any state meal is normally a fairly large affair while the Luncheon happens usually only twice in a cycle, month I believe you call it, there is a state dinner just about every seven days or so. This allows for small deals to be made and ideas to be discussed outside of the throne room or conference hall. Rianna and I are not on duty today so we will be there to help you if needed, Jupiter and Venus are on duty and while they will be present they will not be part of the luncheon. Please try to be polite today even though I am sure you want to be elsewhere right now. The sooner that the Queen can present you as a Friend to her House the better, so no one can say she is trying to hide things from the people.") Seeing a couple of the Queens personal guard approaching them Airia started to worry a little, as the guards would usually meet them at the state dining room not in the hall just before the dining room.

("I guess that being a monarch does have some major draw backs, even when they are doing their best for the people.") Seeing the guards too and sensing Airia's worry some in how she squeezed his arm for a moment. ("Is there something wrong Princess…?")

As the guards were now close enough for the translator to work it was the lead guard that answered. ("Nothing is wrong Sir. A few of the guests today made a formal request to allow them to openly wear a House blade, and the request was granted. The Queen would like you to wear one of the House of the Moon's blades as a result. I have a few here for you to pick from, but there is not much time before you both need to be at the Luncheon. Please take a look and pick one Sir.") He motions one of the others forward with a small case that they open so he can look over the blades.

("Man, if they could have found us before we left my quarters, I have one of my family's blades in my bag. Still one of the Moon House blades will be fine. And before you say anything Princess, I was unaware that one may be allowed to display a House, or Family, blade at a state meal here, or I would have asked.") Was Billy's response as he looked over the blades and selected one that was a dagger style with a ten-inch blade. The handle and guard were silver in color but the wrap on the handle was a deep red. The double-sided blade was placed in a sheath, and he was shown how to attach the belt clips without removing his belt and then tying off the leg straps, the red on the handle and the dark blue of the sheath and strap adding more contrast to his white and silver outfit.

("I did not think to ask if you had a Family blade with you as it was, that is something we can deal with next time. Thank you, lieutenant, now we really need to get there as it is almost time to start. Billy, there will be a period of mingling before the meal so be ready for some questions about yourself.") She then inclined her head toward the direction they needed to go, and the guards fell in behind them like an escort detail.

("I had expected that may happen I just hope I can get through this without making a fool of myself too badly or causing an issue for the Queen and the Champions. I have never been to a function such as this but as my family is rather well off and well connected, I have been to a few very formal events and can only do my best here.") He took a breath as they approached what must be the entrance to the Dining Hall as there were a few others queued to enter as a herald announced each when they entered.

Airia guided Billy to the queue and took out a small piece of crystal, rather like the other guest had and were handing to the herald as they stepped up to him. The Princess on his arm gave said arm a supportive squeeze as she handed the crystal to the herald, and they viewed it in a small terminal next to them before nodding and called out clear and loud: ("Princess Airia dame Mercury and escort Sir Billy Rhodes-Tenashi"). While he did slightly mispronounce his family name the 'escort' bit got his attention and had him looking at the lady on his arm.

Airia had a slight flush to her cheeks, ("I did not know how the Queen had put the information on the name crystal, and I think that she is playing a small joke on me with that. We can ask her later about it but for now let's just mingle and try to get through this today, alright?") Though she did notice a reedy man approaching them and recognized him as the one that had been rather rude the day before at the tailors.

Billy just nodded as he too noticed the man approaching them and waited to see what happened. Billy also taking in that while there were many people already here not many were wearing a blade, very few in fact had one on their belts, this in turn made him feel better.

The man stopped a little over arms distance away and bowed formally before stating ("I am sorry about my attitude yesterday, Sir, while I may have been rushed and stressed about my duties that is no reason to be rude to a Friend of the House of the Moon, or anyone truthfully. I hope you can accept my apologies for that incident.") He held the bow slightly while he waited for Billy to answer.

("Good Sir, I do not know your name yet, but I have no issues with you over what happened. I know how stress and the pressing need to get a job done can make anyone edgy and makes it easier to snap when we feel it is needed, but really is not. I accept your offered apology and hope we can move on from there as if this was our first meeting. I am sure we both have other bigger and more pressing matters than a slight incident over what happened yesterday.") Billy gave a bow that matched the one he was given then presented his open hand in a gesture for a handshake.

("Where I am from a handshake is a way of accepting things as well, Sir. But may I ask your name?")

The man now stood straight and nodded, before tentatively reaching out and shaking Billy's hand. ("I am Zeac Mars Sir Rhodes-Tenahshe. I do hope we can move on. But for today I need to talk with a few others about things I have been working on for a while now. But I needed to apologize for my actions as well.") He bowed and then moved off to a waiting group not too far away.

As Zeac went to move off Billy said, ("Good day Zeac Mars, and good luck on your business.") Then to Airia, ("I think I may have to give lessons on how to pronounce my name. Though if you are not use to it the Japanese part of my name can be hard to get right at first. While that was something minor, I am glad that it is out of the way. We do have more important things to worry about right now, like getting through this event without making too many mistakes.") He looked around for Rianna but did not see her or the others yet.

Airia just smiled, ("I think you handled that well, I guess some things cross over from what you have done before to now. And if you are looking for the others, I do not think they are here yet, Jupiter and Venus will not be here till the Queen arrives in a bit, and Princess Rianna had something come up at the last minute or she would have already been here. I also think that by naming you my escort the Queen is trying to keep a couple of courtiers from bothering me today while they try to get a deal set up about one of Mercury's exports. They know that my father is the one they have to work with on that but keep trying to get me to set up the deal. Or she is just making a joke about setting me and you up as a couple.") She gave him a small smile at that and nodded that they should start walking about and meeting some of the others.

("Well, if I am here to provide some minor protection to you Princess, it is to my honor to do so for one who gives to her realm as you do. And as to the other bit, setting me up with someone as beautiful as you would be no hardship at all, but I would like to know you better long before that was to really happen.") He then allowed her to lead him around and introduce him to a few of the others there. Answering a few questions and politely refusing to answer any that he felt were way too personal for a state function. He saw Princess Rianna when she was announced, by herself.

Her dress was also lovely, her shoulders where bare but the dress did cover part of her arms it also had shoulder straps most of the dress was a lovely deep red color except for a section in the front and back that was black. It too fit her perfectly though the front of the dress was cut a little shorter than the back and stopped just above her knees while the back covered them. She wore calf high dress boots that were the same red as her dress with black piping at the top of them. She too wore a set of nice earrings but also had a gold band on her upper arms and a small silver wristband with gold piping at each end of the band as well.

Rianna made her way over to them even though she was stopped a few times by various nobles and courtiers wanting a word with her on various things. It took her almost thirty minutes to reach them. When she did, she let out a sigh and spoke quietly to them, ("Why does everyone have to try and get my thoughts on why the Queen wants to open the mining belts to other companies when she has made her feelings clear already. Also, you two, the Queen is bringing her daughter today so be ready when they arrive in a few minutes. Billy, I hope things have been smooth for you today, at least better than yesterday anyway.") She took a drink from a tray offered to her noticing that both Airia and Billy already had one in their hands.

Airia answered before Billy could as he was taking a sip of his drink when Rianna finished. ("I have been spared most of the small talk and chatter today as the Queen has Billy here listed as my escort and aside for Zeac stepping forward to apologize for yesterday we have been mostly left alone as they all try and figure him out. That and he is wearing a Moon House blade because some of the larger houses requested they be allowed. Though we have introduced ourselves to a few people here to start getting information about him out, he has done well as it seems he has had some practice at formal events back home.")

Billy let her finish before remarking about how Airia mentioned that she thought the Queen may have been setting them up as a couple as well as to keep some of the courtiers away from her. Her light blush at that had Rianna quietly laughing. Then he addressed the Martian Princess herself.

("As to how this day has been so far, it has been better than yesterday even with this state meal and everything. As to my feelings on why they are asking you about the mining deal, they want to see if you feel like they may feel about it either for or against. From what little I have heard and understood it is a good thing as it allows more companies to offer more work for people of the various planets and lowers the cost of the items mined by them over the imported goods from before. And as long as I look at things as being like what I am use to I can relate easily and not start feeling out of my dept here. And it looks like something is about to happen at the door.") He had noticed that the door guards had changed position and a few more had joined them.

Both Airia and Rianna looked over and nodded to each other with Rianna speaking for them, ("We need to get over near the door as the Queen is about to join us. And Billy, I believe you are right but being asked the same thing so many times is an annoyance more than anything.")

The three of them moved over near the door just as the herald called out ("Queen Serenity Moon and Princess Iris Moon and escorts") the escorts being Jupiter and Venus. Both Airia and Rianna gave a brief bow to the Queen and Princess while Billy gave a formal bow and held it for a few moments. Both the Queen and her daughter were wearing matching dresses of flowing silver while the Queen had the same silver gold tiara with the diamond surrounded golden upturned crescent moon as before. The princess was wearing a much simpler tiara that had a smaller upturned crescent moon on it. The Queen returned the bow with a very slight one of her own before motioning to Airia to come forward and they had a quiet word for a moment before moving off to mingle a bit before the meal was served.

Rianna looked at the Queen as she was swallowed up by various others there before noticing that the Moon princess and Venus had followed Airia back. ("Let me guess she wants us to look after the Princess till the start of the meal, right?")

Airia nodded and introduced Billy to the Moon Princess, (Billy Rhodes-Tenashi please meet the Moon Princess Iris Moon, Princess this is Sir Billy Rhodes-Tenashi, Friend of the House of the Moon and Warrior/Protector.") She said the last while indicating his family crest on his arm.

Billy started to question the warrior/protector bit when he saw Venus shake her head slightly. And indicated with her hand to wait for a bit. He nodded to her slightly before inquiring politely about the Princess and her day in general.

("I am great and glad to be here… Opps I should try and be more formal here sorry. I mean I am doing well and am looking forward to the meal today. How have all of you been fairing today?") All could see that she really was not sorry about how she acted at first and that she wanted to act that way. Billy just smiled as the small group chatted till the signal was given to enter the Dining Hall proper.

As they entered the hall a servant escorted them to their seats and Billy found himself seated between Rianna and Airia, this arrangement caused some of the others here to 'raise an eyebrow' over the seating. After everyone else had been seated including the Moon Princess, the Queen stepped up to her seat but did not sit just yet. She motioned for Venus and Jupiter to take their places then turned to make an announcement as the two Champions took positions near the Queen and her daughter.

Billy found that the translator was working well, meaning his seat must have been deliberate to allow this.

("To those assembled here today, welcome. I need to announce that the rumor of a new Friend of the House of the Moon is true, as he is sitting between Princess Rianna and Princess Airia currently, this has more to do with him not fully understanding our customs too well currently more than anything else. He is a Friend to the Moon, but he has shown his family's honor by offering to do anything he can to help my House as a friend, I have accepted this offer. Please give him some time to adjust to our ways before asking too much from him. At this time, myself and the Champions are working to find a position that will best utilize Sir Rhodes-Tenashi's skills and abilities. Also, I would like to state to my opening of the mining of the asteroid belts is for the good of all as it allows for lower costs on each world to the items mined there over the cost of importing the same items from one or two other planets. Now I think it is time we all enjoyed the meal that has been prepared for us.") With that she took her seat, and the meal began.

While there was a lot of talk, most of it was just basic chatter with little substance to it, simple questions about minor events on various worlds and about some one's health. Billy also found that his position between the two princesses served as a buffer keeping most of the curious people here at bay for now and allowing him to enjoy the meal and watch the others in this sitting.

After the meal proper there was another period of mingling where Billy did his best to answer questions about himself or politely refused to answer anything he felt was too personal. Luckily no one seemed to be in a hurry to press the new Friend of the Moon right now, not with the Queen still present in the room. As people started to leave Rianna, Airia, and Billy all got a message that the Queen wanted to meet them in the meeting room from yesterday in about half an hour. With that in mind they too made their way out and toward the meeting room, though this time they entered it from the other entrance and not through the throne room. The Moon Princess had left shortly after the meal had finished to tend to her duties elsewhere in the castle, or as Rianna put it, to get away from all the stuffy courtiers and the like.

Shortly after they arrived the queen entered and the other three stood at this, as they were all still in formal attire. The Queen stopped them before they could bow, ("We may still be dressed formally but this is not a formal occasion now. We need to take care of a few things now, but first things first. Billy, I want to apologize for not at least saying something about the circlet when I first handed it to you. I knew enough about you at that point I should have been polite about it and told you what it did then and not after you put it on.")

Billy nodded and said, ("I understand and thank you for apologizing, after talking with Airia this morning I understand better why you may have done it the way you did, but with us both offering Friendship to each other it still hurt some. I accept your offer as it was made as a ruler of a realm and no insult was meant, and we also do need to work together more now that I am here for a while.") Both Airia and Rianna let out a breath here indicating that they both were surprised at the path the Queen took but glad things seemed to be working out.

The Queen sighed slightly and moved on, ("Well this little meeting is not just about smoothing out a rough path here, I need to know if you have worked out at least a working schedule to help Billy learn at least Lunarian and maybe some of the Queendom's history. Also, Billy, do you mind working with a group of others on maybe redesigning some of the items you have for the people here; your media players, that tablet PC and maybe something like your laptop computer? Also, any new ideas for items that may help the people or maybe my military somewhat.") She sat down looking a little worn, causing both Airia and Rianna to look worried.

Rianna spoke first, ("My Queen, are you alright? Can I get you something? And where are Jupiter and Venus?") Airia just nodded behind her. The two for some reason caused the Queen to smile.

("I am just tired as I have had a busy morning, some of my remarks and questions now will be because of what various others saw yesterday in Jupiter's spar with you Billy, and your practice session last night. As to getting me something Rianna, a drink would be nice right now, something mild though I do have two more meetings a little later. Right now, Jupiter is running an errand for me, and Venus is at the door to the throne room. Right now, I just want to sit down and talk about things we can get done and not what needs to be done but cannot be done till other things are finalized. There are times I hate being the one in charge.") She smiled at all of them. ("Yes, Billy even I feel that way at times.") After she noticed the look he had at her comment before.

("It was more that you are talking about things, even in general terms, around me. Someone who is not really part of your court, yet at least. The Princesses I can see as their positions here have them privy to most of this already. Still as to your question before about helping remake things for the people here, I have no issues with that but why do you need to design a laptop, Airia has a very good one that could be used to make more, or is there something I am missing there? Also, I do need to get a way to power the items I have so that they will be more useful in that respect, but getting a portable computer is actually the start as the media players are just a form of a computer that has one or two functions like playing music or short videos.") He sat back in thought while the Queen looked at Rianna and Airia for more.

Rianna was getting a drink for her Queen so Airia spoke up, ("Your Highness, if I may reveal a few things about myself to Billy here, but his suggestion about a portable computer that the people can use is something that should be easy to do.") She stopped waiting for the Queen to give her permission, which she did with a nod as Rianna handed her a drink and the handed one to Airia and Billy before sitting down with one herself.

("Billy, the portable computer I use is actually part of the equipment that I as the Champion of Mercury have. It is much more than just a simple portable computer. It is actually a very advanced and very micronized mainframe computer with access to several other more powerful computers that helps me do one of my main duties as Champion and this is data acquisition, analysis, and distribution to the other Champions or members of the court or military as needed. It also helps me with tactical analysis when in battle. Those are only a small portion of what the Mercury Link System can do. But when you mentioned it, I realized it would be easy to make a basic system for others to use as it would not need much power in itself and maybe the ability to link into the existing network as we already have a type of computer for use in a home or business this would just be making it smaller and easier to move around.") She absently took a drink and pulled out the Mercury Link and started to look over things.

The Queen watched Airia for a moment before she stated, ("And that is the last we may hear from her for a while, as she now has a project to work on. Yes, Billy ideas like that are what I am looking for. We should have already considered that direction and I think a few have but it would need backing and that may be hard to get enough of to get the idea started enough for it to make a profit easily. As to getting you batteries and line power I believe Airia mentioned before in a report she has the information needed to get it set up and I will have her send that information to the right people this afternoon so we can get that started tomorrow morning for you.")

At this point Jupiter entered the room and saw Airia immersed with the Mercury Link and said chuckling, ("Alright who suggested something that Airia now has to work out all the details to right now?") Her entry and comment caught Airia's attention, and she blushed and before she could say anything back Jupiter placed her hand on her friend's shoulder before saying ("Relax Airia, you and that Link have helped us many times. Though you are maybe the only person that can forget that the Queen is sitting less than five feet from you when you get an idea in your head. So, who gave you a new project idea today? The Queen?") She looked around but noticed that Billy looked a little sheepish and she muttered 'no way.'

("I think I did by mentioning that a laptop computer like mine was like the one Airia uses, I then found out that my laptop system is nothing like hers. But that got her thinking about what one that everyone in the realm could use would be set up like. So, she started checking out that idea. And it seems that the Queen is allowing me to know more about the Champions, at least to a point I think.") He sighed and then shook his head. ("Besides your highness, what you have asked of me so far will not take up that much time with Airia helping, so the question becomes what am I able to do on a more full-time basis? I mean learning things will take some time, but not all day every day. I would still have some time to help elsewhere. I am open to ideas right now.")

Everyone in the room looked at him now before Airia leaned back and smiled slightly, ("It looks like the long talk we had this morning helped some, or is it just that it is time to act while we wait to see how long you will be here now?")

("A little of both, I think, though I am still going to have problems about my family for a while. Talking like we did this morning did seem to help. So, your highness, Jupiter, Rianna, Airia, suggestions on what I can do to help for now?")

The others turned to the Queen to see what she had on her mind first and she told them. ("I am thinking of having you work with the Champions mainly, training with them to a point and helping them with things from your point of view. Also working with a research and design team helping with ideas that we can use for the people of the realm or the military. I think splitting your days between study and working with the Champions, the research and maybe working with some of the guards will be enough. For now, getting up to speed with at least Lunarian is a priority, as the translators do not help with text at all. Airia, make that class the main one for now. I do hope you three agree with this.") She smiled at them.

Billy was just sitting back and thought that Queen Serenity seemed to know that he liked to keep busy most of the time. While he watched the others hold a silent conversation before agreeing with the Queen.

At this the Queen got up, ("Ok, I have a meeting with a delegation from Neptune shortly. Jupiter, I want you to escort Billy to the armory and see if he can get checked on any of our modern weapons and if there are any others that he can use from his training. Also, Billy will you allow Jupiter and Mercury to look over your Family Blade later, I want to be sure that no one can call it into question. Airia, I want you to take Jupiter's place while she takes him to the armory, Rianna has not had a full day off in over a cycle now. Oh, and Billy the Moon House Blade you have right now, keep it as a gift from the House of the Moon to your House please. And before you ask, yes someone can display two blades as long as they are different. In your case a Family blade and a Moon House blade can both be displayed, but please ask to be sure an event will allow it. Most do, though the state luncheons normally do not. Now I need to go to my meeting. I hope the rest of you have a good day.") And she left before anyone could respond. Though Airia did groan about having to go on duty.

("I should have expected that though, Jupiter is the better choice when checking out weapons and such and I have been removed from the duty rotation till we get you settled Billy, as I am your contact point for now. Once you are settled somewhat, I will be back on the rotation when I am not working with you as a teacher. Though I think this evening is a rare one in that we all are off due to the state dinner being changed to a luncheon, so why don't we all get together for a semi late meal or something. Billy, I think we would all like you to be there. And as to what you said before, yes, the Queen is allowing us to answer your questions about our abilities now, though anything we are not sure about we will have to ask her first.") Airia looked at Jupiter then Rianna to be sure she had not spoken out of turn.

("Billy, please come tonight we do not get days when we are all off duty at the same time very often so we will be doing what we find fun and relaxing. This will give you a chance to see that part of us firsthand.") Came from Rianna as she really wanted to start to get to know him better, right now Keira and Airia had had the most time with him. Jupiter just nodded her acceptance here.

Billy took a minute to think about it, but really a guy being asked to spend time with four very attractive ladies will almost always get a yes answer, add in that these four could most likely kick his ass to Earth and back and he was sure he would be watching his manners as well.

("Sure, I will join you four later for a late dinner or just a get together with food on the side. In that case I guess Jupiter, you and I need to get the armory errand over with then. Though why does the Queen want me tested on weapons?")

("Mainly to see what weapons you can be issued if the need was to ever arise. And to see where you may need some more practice with what we have as well. That was my errand, to get this setup to be done this afternoon. So, yea let's go and get it done.") She stood and started for the door stopping for a second, ("Or do you want to see Airia change to Champion Mercury first?)

("That sounds interesting but also like I am being asked if I want to see her changing clothing. I am not sure how to answer that though. Knowing that each of you coul…") He was interrupted as Airia stood and was then engulfed by a serene blue light that dissipated to reveal Champion Mercury where Airia had stood. ("OK, that catches your attention very completely, and there is no need to physically change clothing. That explains how you two got cleaned up yesterday so fast.")

Mercury laughed at that, ("Actually we do need to change clothing, when I revert to normal I will still be in my dress and everything, just changing into our Champion uniforms does not require us to change clothing normally. Now you two get going and I will go and keep Venus company while Rianna here is most likely going to go ogle the guards for a bit.") Smiling at Rianna as she said that last bit, and only got a nod in response from said Princess.

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While Mercury went out to stand guard on the throne room with Venus while the Queen was meeting with a couple delegations there, Jupiter showed Billy the way to the armory and the practice range. During the walk Jupiter pointed out a few points of interest in this section of the place and grounds, which were on the opposite side of the place from the quest wing. She mentioned that now that he had been presented to the court so to speak that he would now have a bit more freedom where he could go.

("Just remember if the headband starts to get warm, you are approaching a location that you are not cleared to be in yet. Though on the ground floor and above of the palace there will be few places closed to you now. And there is the armory, I will see that Airia gives you a map of the palace till you get use to where everything is. You ready to see if we have anything you can use?") She finished her tour guide like disclosure as they approached the armory, a two-story building that looked to be well protected set off from the palace by an open field that had a few targets set up and various ranges.

("Yes, I think I am. I'm very curious as to what weapons you have here and if any of the training I have will transfer over. I just wish we had had time so I could change, but then if an emergency happens, I may not get to change clothing.") Billy responded as they approached the guards at the entrance, who went to attention and performed what had to be a salute to Guardian Jupiter. They brought their right hands up, bent at the elbow, and across their bodies and placed their open palms against the top of the left side of their chest with the fingertips pointed at the left shoulder.

Passing by them Jupiter gave a short bow in response to the salute as the doors opened revealing a rather spartan office area with a counter along part of one wall. Jupiter motioned him to the counter area and the soldier behind it saying that he needed to check in so that they could start the process of placing his weapons skills and clearances.

The process was fairly simple, a few questions about his training and experiences with various types of weapons before a scan was made of him that was placed in the computer file as part of his identifying information. After this they were allowed to enter into the armory proper and someone would assist them in looking over the weapons and demonstrating them if needed. Billy found out that for most hand weapons like blades and such, or bows, a simple trail would work to clear him for use, but it would actually take a few days to fully place his weapons level in their system.

While they finished the first steps before entering the armory fully Jupiter let him know that she had placed his initial hand-to-hand level at what they called third circle on a five-tier ranking system, just from what she had seen and from their spar the day before. ("I mean I am classed fifth tier, and while I think you could be at fourth, I was not that sure if you would qualify under our system, so till we can take the time to fully test your hand-to-hand skills you're a third-tier master. I hope you don't mind…") She looked at him unsure if she should have done that.

As Billy started to respond a somewhat familiar voice spoke up to their right, ("I don't see why he would mind. I mean third tier is better than most of us ever achieve. I'm first tier and am now very, very glad we did not have to fight the other night as I believe that only you Guardians would have come off without spending much time in medical.") Turning they saw the sergeant from the other night ginning at them.

("Sergeant Ryo? I hope I remembered your name right. Are you helping us now or just here on duty… or is it both?") Billy asked when he recognized the speaker, also glad to see someone that he at least had some knowledge of being here.

("Both actually, this is part of my punishment for not following correct procedures the other night, but I am also here to help you go through the more common weapons to get your initial placement finished until your full level can be determined and further training if any set up. Do you mind if we start with melee hand weapons and basic ranged weapons like bows and such? We should be able to get through them quickly then move over to more modern weapons. And before I am told that we should do the modern weapons first, Guardian, getting the bulk of the melee and other hand and muscle powered weapons done will help later. The Armory Master is finishing setting up a range of modern weapons for you to test Sir Rhodes-Tenashi on still, so that should be somewhat quicker than normal.") She actually tried to pronounce his family name right and came very close. Looking at him and Jupiter she waited to see if she was about to get reprimanded for speaking her mind here, even if she was just trying to speed up the entire process.

Jupiter placed her hand on his shoulder to stop him responding just yet, ("Personally I have no issue with that as I know it will speed things along in the end, it is just that the Queen specified testing modern weapons. So as long as we can get that done today, I have no problems.") She then indicated that they should get started. To which both Billy and the Sergeant agreed.

Over the next hour or so they went through a huge range of melee and basic ranged weapons, including some semi-powered ones like what Billy called vibroblades. Ryo was actually impressed at the number of weapons he seemed to be able to use, more so when he pointed out that many of the designs and styles he had never seen but they were a lot like weapons he had been trained in that he could use them. They did have many weapons that he knew outright even if the names were different, when he picked up two Mercuriean blades that were a lot like katanas and proceeded to go through a full dual wield kata with them, both Jupiter and Ryo were impressed. It turned out that the number of people that could dual wield swords was actually very small.

The entire time they were going over the weapons Ryo was talking to Billy and Jupiter once she realized that even in uniform the Guardian was very friendly normally. They seemed to be setting the groundwork for a good friendship, something that was helping Billy relax and start the process of accepting that he was here for the long haul right now.

After they took a short break, while Sergeant Ryo checked to see if the modern weapons check was fully set up, they moved to the second level basement, or the testing area for the more modern and military weapons. Once they entered the area Billy noticed that the weapons had been placed on racks that could be easily moved so that they only needed to stay in one location for the most part now.

The first set of weapons was energy-based melee and specialty weapons, like a sword that seemed to be made out of crystal that when activated became a length of crystal razors that could be energized to do even more damage. That was one weapon that he passed on stating that while he had training with chain style and whip style weapons this one was a little beyond his current training levels but was one he wanted to learn later.

Now came the pistols and rifles, many were easy to figure out and use as he did have training with similar weapons, but not with the military versions. Billy did point out that he had no training at all with heavy weapons when those racks were moved over for him to look over. One thing that Billy had noticed was that each rack of modern weapons had three basic types: Projectile, Laser, and what he called Blaster weapons. Even the heavy weapons fell into these groups. He did try a few of them after Ryo demonstrated them and helped him handle them correctly. The Armory Master actually marked him as a tier one trainee with the heavy weapons, meaning that he could use them if he had to, but he needed a lot more training to be good with them.

It was getting near time to eat dinner when they finished up and Billy was told that he easily classed as a fully trained soldier with his current skills and weapons knowledge. The system used to grade weapons use was a ten level, or tier, system with the tiers being: Trainee – Tier 1 & 2, Proficient – Tier 3 & 4, Skilled – Tier 5 & 6, Expert – Tier 7 & 8, and Master – Tier 9 & 10. In everything he had tried, for the most part, Billy was listed as Tier 3 to Tier 6 for most of the modern weapons with a few exceptions like the heavy weapons at Tier 1. The Armory Master did want him to get more training and practice in even with the weapons he could use well now, so that he got use to them. On the melee weapons Billy averaged Tier 7-8 on almost all of the groups that he had tested on, with blades actually being Tier 9 currently. Bows and other basic ranged weapons also landed around Tier 7 for all checked out.

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As Billy and Jupiter were getting ready to return to the palace Ryo walked over to speak with both of them, ("I need to ask you both something, as I have been requested by the Armory Master to help train Billy here on the weapons he needs training, or just practice with, various weapons over the next several days to finalize the current levels. When is he going to be scheduled for weapons training or practice? Or has a schedule not been worked out yet?")

("Nothing has been set yet, and you will need to contact Princess Airia as she will be the one creating the initial schedule as things become more settled over the next few weeks or so the schedule will become more set. Just send her a message and let her know that you are being placed to help Billy with adjusting to using our weapons better and she will work with you on times.") Jupiter responded, even as she got ready to head out.

Billy just nodded as he was actually tired after being tested and checked out on so many weapons that afternoon. He was really looking forward to getting back and taking a nice long soak, then he remembered that he had been invited to a late dinner with the Guardians that evening. 'Well, a quick hot shower will help for now.' ("Ryo, I hope we can find some time to just sit and talk later but that may need to wait till things calm down around me first. We do need to go though. I have no idea what my contact information is yet and learning Lunarian is one of the first things on my list of things to get done. So, talk to you later.")

Ryo just nodded to him, ("I will ask Princess Airia for your contact info when I talk to her about setting training and practice time for you tomorrow. You two have a good night, Billy, Guardian.") She then saluted Jupiter and returned to whatever she was doing before they arrived.

As they left the armory and headed back toward the guest wing, Billy asked Jupiter, ("I noticed that even once Sergeant Ryo got use to you and realized that you are very nice, she still treated you with a lot of deference is that because you are a Princess or because you are a Guardian?") They were moving somewhat quicker than before as Jupiter did not want to be late for the Guardians get together shortly.

("Both actually, if I had been just a Princess here at the Moon Palace I more than likely would never enter the armory unless it was absolutely needed for me to be there. As a Guardian of the Realm I, and the others, answer to the Queen directly. For most that alone means that we are treated with respect anywhere we go, unless of course we are facing down terrorist or other high-level criminals. Even then only the most hardened or dumb tend to not show some respect or fear toward us. You'll learn more about our positions as you learn about the Queendom's history and ways. Anything else you want to ask before we get back and need to get cleaned up for the get together in a little while?")

Billy thought for a minute and as they turned down the guest wing hallway, he seemed to remember something, ("What did Airia mean when she called me a Warrior/Protector during the reception just before the luncheon earlier? It sounded like a title, and as far as I know besides 'Sir' I do not have any titles.") He looked at her waiting for her response as the doors to his room came into view.

Jupiter thought for a moment before answering as they reached his room, ("I think it has something to do with your family's crest. Just looking at it, even if I do not recognize the symbols, I can tell that your family are protectors of those under them and warriors when times call for it. The other symbols I would need to study to work out the meanings. That being the case, calling you a Warrior/Protector is allowed and proper, it is not really a title as it is a position. And it will be respected by anyone here in the Palace or in the Queen's military, so do not be too surprised if the guards and soldiers start to salute you in a few days or so. The Palace staff may become a little more… what did you say before… deferent toward you as well. If you want a better, or more detailed answer ask Airia or Miranda later about it as that is something both of them understand better than I do. Now go get cleaned up I am sure that Airia or one of the others will be by soon to bring you to dinner.") She indicated his room before turning and heading off down the hall even as Billy was responding to her.

("Ok, I will see you later then.") He then entered his room to get cleaned up. Carefully taking off the dress outfit and placing it on the back of a chair for now, he picked out one of the other outfits that was in a dark green color and headed to the bathroom to wash off and change for the evening get together.

Shortly he was done with a quick hot shower that did wonders for tension in a person's body. As he was re-tying his ponytail someone knocked on the door. He found Miranda there when he opened it, in an outfit that while casual made sure the viewer knew that the wearer was a very shapely young woman, as it hugged all her curves very nicely. After taking a moment or two to get over his surprise at seeing a princess dressed so provocatively. She just smiled at the look she got from him when he opened the door.

("Sorry for that Miranda, I was not expecting the way you are dressed. But then as we hardly know each other I had no idea how you liked to dress in your free time.") He checked to be sure he was not forgetting anything, then turned to leave. ("Shall we be on our way then?")

Miranda, for her part just smiled as she answered, ("Yes, we need to be going as dinner will be served soon in our private dining room near our quarters. Why not take your camera tonight, Keira told me and Rianna about how you had shown her and Airia a little about how it worked and I for one would like to see that too. And yes, this is how I dress when I am not expecting anyone, on duty, or have a function to attend.") She motioned toward the table where he had placed the camera before the luncheon and waited for him to shrug and retrieve it before closing the door and following her down the hall.

Despite the way she was dressed to kill or head out to a club for a wild night, Miranda was very easy to talk to once you got past her provocative style of dress. During the walk to the part of the palace where the Guardians' quarters were located, they talked about little things, and a little about their families. During the walk they were just two new friends starting to get to know each other.

Miranda led him down a hallway that had a rather heavy guard presence, when she noted that he seemed to be a little worried about their location she let him know that he was allowed here since he would be working with the Guardians now. So, he was allowed in this section of the palace now. ("Has the headband gotten warm yet? Remember that it will get warm when you approach someplace you are not allowed to be. And here we are, this is the entrance to the Guardians' quarters and suite of common rooms that we all share the use of.") She led him into the main common area then off to one side and through an arch way into a small dining area where the others are waiting for them.

("Sorry Miranda, it is just that things are now changing a little fast though I do understand the need to get things sorted now that we know that I will be here for a while. Good evening Airia, Keira, Rianna, I believe that this is considered an informal location?") Each one of the Guardians were dressed in simple yet expensive 'everyday' outfits.

Rianna was the one to respond first, ("Yes, it is once we enter this suite of rooms, we try to leave our titles and such behind and try to just be normal people. Please take a seat as we will be eating shortly.") Watching as he picked a seat that was near him, which also put him next to Airia, she noticed the case he placed on the table. ("What is that, did Miranda get you to bring your camera? I think she just wants to see what she looks like when it is used to take her picture.")

As Billy opened his mouth to respond, Airia actually giggled a little before speaking before him or Keira could. ("Miranda you could have asked me or Keira about that, while it is not as advanced as the cameras we have here, the images it takes are very similar to the ones I can take with the Mercury Link. Though at a slightly lesser quality, the resolution and clarity are still very nice.")

Keira was just nodding on the other side of the table near Rianna. ("Besides I would like to see what else it can do as it does have a lot of controls and functions… Ah here is dinner. Playing with cameras and such can wait till later.") At her words several servers entered and placed, not plates of food, but serving containers, some form of beverage, and then the plates and dinnerware for each person before they gave a slight bow and left.

Miranda reached for the beverage, looked at the label and nodded before starting to pour some into everyone's glasses. While she was doing this the others each started to serve themselves. Keira seeing him watch them said, ("On the odd day that we all have time away from our duties we like to do things ourselves. We are all friends as well as Guardians. So, tonight is about just relaxing and having a little fun. As Rianna said before, we try to leave titles out when we are here, unless an alert goes off that is. So, relax, get some food, and we can all just relax and talk. Later we have some games we can play. Also tonight is about getting to know new friends a little better.")

Billy just smiled and nodded, "Ok, but like I said things are still moving a little on the fast side. But at least things are moving in a direction I can see now. And yes, I have no problems, Miranda, showing you how my camera works or even taking pictures. As long as you are all willing to have your picture taken that is. So, as I know Airia and Keira somewhat already it is Rianna and Miranda that I need to start getting to know more. But talking with new friends is always good." He then took and started serving himself from the items placed on the table.

Over the next hour the five of them chatted about many things from family to events and places they had seen. And working with Airia Billy was able to easily show them pictures from a few of the places he had been to just before the displacement happened. When the images of Aiko Suki and her friends came up, her resemblance to Airia was uncanny and this was mentioned by the others. Miranda was interested in the pictures taken at the Crescent Moon Club. They had fun messing with his camera for a little bit and when he took a few pictures while highlighting colors or swapping colors Rianna got interested in how the camera did that, even though Billy pointed out the Mercury Link was faster at doing the same thing.

After the meal was finished and the remaining food was placed into a refrigerator in case they wanted a snack later, or lunch, they moved back into the main common area and brought out some games to mess around with while they continued to talk. During this time each of the four Guardians made sure that Billy knew that they each wanted to spar and train with him when they could and learn some of the other skills he had that may be useful to them. During the games it was brought home in a big way that Billy really did need to learn Lunarian thought they still had fun helping him he mentioned a few games from where he was from that he might be able to reproduce later, though he did have a deck of cards in his bag and a travelers game kit (Chess, Checkers, Backgammon, etc..) that they could use next time they could all get together.

After several more hours of relaxing, talking, and playing a few games, it was time to call it a night as Miranda and Keira had duty in the morning. Airia said that she would be by Billy's quarters about half an hour or so after breakfast to start general language work and work on setting up a schedule for classes, training, practice, and working on the projects the Queen suggested. Miranda was the one to escort him back, though they did say the escorts would only last until he could find his own way around the palace and grounds. The other three bid him a good night as the little get-together broke up and he and Miranda headed out.

The two of them did not say much of importance, just joked about some of the things that happened during the games earlier on the way to his room. Once there he bid Miranda good night and thanks for the enjoyable evening that she and the others had let him enjoy with them. She just smiled and gave him a quick friendly hug before saying good night herself and heading back. Being tired he just took a fast rinse off and headed to bed so he could get up in time to do his morning work out before breakfast as he doubted, he would have much time the rest of the day.

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The others were still up when Miranda returned and Rianna spoke up as soon as the door closed behind her, )"Well after tonight it is settled for me, I really want to help Billy find his place here and help him learn what he needs to be able function easily here. While I know that was not why we invited him here tonight, it did help me see him as the person that Airia and Keira have been telling us about. How do you feel Miranda? We both know that Keira and Airia are going to help as much as they can even without the Queens backing."(

)"I agree, but then I had already decided to help out when, where, and how I could. I did sneak a look at his armory file while Keira was getting ready and noticed that he has a wide base of understanding there, but he is weak with chain and whip style weapons, and thanks to my position I can help him get better there and maybe he can help me with hand-to-hand combat in return. Besides I think working with us and the other Guardians will be the best route to take for now. Well, with the Queen's suggested projects as well."( Miranda responded as she sat down in a chair with the others.

This time Keira spoke up, )"Yes, Rianna both me and Airia decided this morning that we would help him as much as we could. I also know that Sergeant Ryo from the other night is also willing to help as much as she can, and I think the Queen may have her reassigned sometime in the future if we get tied up with our duties. Airia, do you have anything to add?"( She asked her friend who had taken out her portable computer and was checking over something on it.

)"I do, we should not forget that the Queen is looking into a tutor to help Billy learn more of the Ki-Dancer skills and abilities. That may happen here, or they may want him taken to Haven for a time, maybe both I do not know what will happen there."( She took and changed a setting on her computer while the other three looked at each other in shock for forgetting that little tidbit of information. )"But I think the Queen is going to push for as much training here as they will allow. Right now, she does not want him to leave the Moon, or the palace too much until he gets use to being here and can understand the language well enough. As well as having a good base in our history and procedures and laws."( Now she looked back up to find the others looking at her oddly.

Rianna found her voice first, )"Airia just how do you know all this? I know the Queen is open with us about many things, but she has not had a chance to talk to us, much less brief us on her plans and ideas to help Billy more than what we covered today."(

Airia just smiled, )"Each of you should check your messages before going to bed, the Queen just sent a briefing message with that information in it. She wants to get things started to help him get settled faster and by sending us the basic information this way we can get started faster. I am going to have him in language, history, and protocol lessons in the mornings with a bit of open time before lunch so he can relax or do some work for the lessons. He will be learning and teaching some of his languages. I will see if I can get the Queen to let you three rotate through his classes if you are interested. The afternoons will be split between finalizing his Armory levels and training with us, the palace guards, and some of the Queen's own Alphas. This is to help us and him, and hopefully help get him some needed combat training."(

Miranda and Keira looked around realizing that Billy would be doing a lot of work shortly and then Keira spoke up, )"Is he even going to have any real time to himself? I mean while we do not usually all have the same time off duty, we still have a fair bit of time open every week."( To which Miranda just nodded.

To which Airia just smiled again, )"Of course he will, his training schedule will be five days on and two days off, though there may be the odd week in there with six days working and one day off. Though what he does on those days will be mostly up to him."(

Rianna stood up and said, )"Well I for one will be happy to see him working with us and the Queen's First Guards, Sparing and general training with someone that has a style that is completely unknown here will be interesting."( She smiled here before finishing, )"Talking to him and learning how he sees the world around us compared to how we see it will be helpful in its own way."(

She let out a large yawn at this point, )"Well I do not know about the rest of you, but I need to get in bed. I do want to get some rest before I go back on duty tomorrow afternoon. And I am sure that Keira and Miranda need to get some sleep before the morning shift starts in a few hours."( She then turned and headed towards one of the rooms and her bed.

The others just nodded and headed off to bed themselves as each one needed to get some sleep before the next dawn arrived, they now had a new friend and several ideas on how to help him find his place to fit in in his new world.

Chapter 4 Fin