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.)

6. Chapter 06, Adjustments pt1

Displaced

Chapter 6: Adjustments, Part 1 – Disgruntled Diplomats, Advisors, and Sudden Changes of Plans

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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Billy was starting to become stressed about the upcoming state dinner that was to be held this week. He had just a little over a day before the meal and already the nobles that Airia and Miranda had warned him about earlier in the week had already started bringing up the issue of him not already allying with the Queen. While most seemed to be taking a wait and see stance these two had gotten a couple others to side with them, and Billy expected to be approached by or during the upcoming state meal.

The morning of the meal both of the minor nobles approach him during, not after or before but during his morning workout and practice. Both of them started in on him totally disregarding the disturbance that they caused so their point can be made. One of the nobles is from Mars and the other is from Venus, as attitudes go the Martian one seemed more willing to talk than the Venusian. After loosing the morning to these two Billy felt that at least the Martian noble would back off for a little while, at least till he felt he was ready to ally with the Queen and the Queendom.

The night of the dinner and Billy was again wearing his white dress 'uniform' with both tassels and blades. The Queen decided to have him escort Airia to this meal while Mars and Venus were on duty with Jupiter being escorted by a mid level noble from Jupiter. For his part Billy would have loved this as Airia was wearing a lovely blue (that seemed to be her favorite color, as she wore it a lot) that had one side of the skirt shorter than the other, the right side stopped at a little past mid thigh wile the left went to mid calf. The dress left her back, shoulders, and arms bare while it was held up by a collar around her neck. The only other item she had on was a pair of Mercurean river stone earrings.

No sooner than Billy and Airia were announced and made the floor where all the nobles and such attending this meal were, than the Venusian noble approached and declared loudly, "And here is the one who uses our Queen to get what he wants and does nothing to repay Her kindness. Tell me Sir how does it feel to use the kindness of some one like our kind Queen." Just the grin on his face after this was more of a sneer at Billy. The noble felt he had won the battle here but had forgotten that his target had two allies with him or near by.

Before Billy could even allow his anger at the statements just made even fully reach the surface Airia had already placed a hand on his shoulder to keep him quite for a little while longer as Keira and her escort made their way over. Due to the way the Venusian spoke every one in the mingling area had heard his statement. Three other minor nobles, two from Uranus and another from Venus, join the first with calls of 'Yes, answer him' and 'Show us that you are the queens friend, now!'

Just before Keira and her escort arrived Airia made herself known to the group and for the first time many that have been at the palace many times see the soft spoken Princess and Champion of Mercury, upset. Her first words set the tone for her entire statement, "Excuse me, Sir, but who are you to walk up and start shouting and making demands of the escort of a Princess and Champion? I though the nobles of Venus were very much about protocol and following it at all times in setting like this, or are you special and allowed to do what you want whenever? Tell me something Sir noble, do you not see the friend tassel and headband he wears? Or the fact that he is a confirmed fourth tier master of unarmed combat, whose style does use weapons like blades as well?" At this point she took a breath and Just as Keira started to speak resumed her verbal assault.

"In case you have missed the information going around the palace, but Sir Rhodes-Tenashi is currently assisting the Queen's researchers and technicians developing items for the people of the realm. Like the new media player that will be offered to the people later this month here on the Moon? Or the 'laptop' computer being offered on Mercury in the next month or so? How about the tablet computer that will finally be offered on Mars a little while after that? Each of these items Sir Rhodes-Tenashi has helped design, test and refine till we need to get them out to the people to find any more problems and get a true final product out to the entire realm. He has not once set back and just accepted the Queens charity like you are insinuating, he has been working with us on many things as well as learning about the Empire he finds himself in, what have you done for the realm recently Sir Durjana?" At this point Keira is there and gently places a hand on Airia's shoulder to calm her down, but most of the other nobles have backed away from Durjana and his three followers. Even they back down and apologize for not taking the time to see everything going on.

For his part, Billy was surprised when Airia took the noble and his cronies apart with just words and this allowed him to get his anger in check. Still he took a deep breath before talking, "I have no idea who you are Sir, as before this morning when you interrupted my private practice, and now all but call me a skimmer (Lunarian for leach or moocher) I have enough to demand satisfaction, but will not as the disparity in skill here is about the same as that between mine and your intellect. I think before I speak, even when I am angered. I will demand that you be removed this night, as is my, and every ones' right, here. I suggest you leave before you are escorted out, you need to remember that two Princesses and Champions of the Realm are here as well as Princesses Jupiter's Escort. One of which was at my side when you use words to attack me and my integrity just now." Billy again took a deep breath before moving himself, Airia, and the two Jovan members a short distance away from the problem noble, even now Billy could tell that Durjana was anything but done with his attacks.

After Durjana left with an escort for the disruption, making a deal or discussing issues calmly was fine but making a loud and incorrect accusation toward some one was bordering on facing them in a dual or just plan illegal. The rest of the meal was fine, there were a few that did come up and calmly talked about the incident getting his side and politely asking if he did intend to ally with the Queen. His answer was the same each time, "When I am ready and feel that it is time I will. That time is really not that far in the future." His answer caused both Airia and Keira to smile some, as they now know that their friend was seriously considering being and ally to them, allowing them to do even more. All four enjoyed the meal and the rest of the day, the other nobles seemed to have realized that if you have a question or feel that something is not right with Sir Rhodes-Tenashi, that just talk to him calmly about it. At least the ones that had not already figured that information out.

Billy escorted Airia all the way back to the Champions quarters, and in a show of respect and thanks for her defense of him at the gathering, took and gently kissed the back of her hand before he said the words to her. He also mentioned that he would need to learn to win a disagreement with words, better than he was able to at the time anyway.

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After changing to something less formal Airia checked her messages and found several from a few nobles and courtiers that she would deal with later, as there was one from the Queen herself calling a meeting of all Champions that were on the Moon at the time, the meeting was scheduled immediately. After reading this Airia saved the rest of the messages for when she could go through them later, and headed to the meeting.

Airia arrived just as Venus was heading in to the private meeting room they used for things like this. They greeted each other as they entered the room only to find they are the last to arrive. Keira it turned out came straight to the Queen after the meal to talk about what happened only the find that she had to wait for the others, as the Queen wanted to talk to them all about the subject, but not the incident.

"As we are all here, let's begin. I know about the incident with Sir Durjana before the meal today. I was the one that made sure he was escorted out as he has a habit of doing what he wants only. Miranda, please let your father know that Sir Durjana is a disruptive member of the Venusian diplomatic core here on the Moon. He is very good at what he does but unlike others he has no tact or the ability to be just talk out things at times. Also let your father know that he came very close to losing Sir Durjana in a duel of honor today, as I feel that had Airia not spoken up as she did Billy would have gone off in anger and challenged him. A course of action that would have done more harm than good right now." She stopped to take a breath and a drink from the glass that Rianna had handed her as she got everyone a drink. "Thank you Rei, I need a good drink right now. I do have one meeting later with a delegation from Mars and feel that one topic will be Mr. Rhodes-Tenashi and allies of the Moon. Airia as you see him the most due to teaching him History and laws of the Queendom, how do you feel he is going to react to this?" Here the Queen looked at Airia with a tired smile, events like this always seemed to get Serenity down and tired mainly because they are completely out of her hands to do anything.

"We have spoken many times before today about this, during breaks in teaching and other times when we meet for something. He is willing to do so but wants to learn more of our laws and procedures before doing so. This is why his classes in History and Law have been tailored to speed up this section of his classes. After the event today he told me, as he escorted me to the door of our suite, that he is really considering it as he can see the benefits for both sides now, but said something is holding him back but he cannot figure out what right now. He wants to ally actually, but has learned to trust his feelings. I believe that Keira can explain that better than I can as it seems to be a warrior's or martial artist's deal, something I am not that familiar with." Finally, she took a breath, every one here felt that she had been wanting to discuss this subject for a while now.

The Queen nods but stated first, "I understand, but to really work with the Guards or Alphas, even you as Champions he has to ally with us. So far he has and is doing everything asked of him, but for any more from us he has to ally, I know he is almost ready to do so on his own but if other planetary delegates start openly pushing like today I feel that he may consider walking away and finding his own way now. That would be a loss for us and him at this point." She looked to the others for their responses.

Three of the others looked at Airia before stating that as she is the one closest to him she should answer for them all. To which Airia took a breath before stating, "He would not walk away Serenity, though he would maybe back away from some of the projects as they can and do have applications for military use, like the update to the helmet visor display that has come out of the tablet computer design. And a few other modifications that have been noted as possible military use items. Billy will stick by his friends, he does not just leave them with out something major happening between them first. It is not how he was raised or in him to leave a friend just because some one else has an issue with him." Stopping here Airia took another breath, as it was clear she was close to tears, Reanna, being closest, moved over and put an arm around her friend. But it was Miranda that spoke up now.

"It is well known that I listen to a lot of the palace gossip, and Billy has made many friends here, Iria his maid as he calls her, Karl from the guard who is helping him design and set up the parkor training area, Us Champions of course, Eria Ryo from the first night here, and a few others that I have yet to get names for. Palace servants like him as he is friendly and nice to them, the guards and soldiers like him as he does not take them for granted, even some of the Alphas like him as he thinks differently and sees ways of doing things that others may have missed. A few of the Nobles that reside in the guest wing normally have started minor friendships with him, as he is easy to just talk to. I mean, like Airia said he has friends all over the palace and the near by military base just due to him being him." She stopped here not knowing what else to say, though she had gotten the point across just as well as Airia had. With the friends he had here Billy would not be leaving just because a few minor delegates or nobles had a problem with him not doing what they wanted.

Keira took and spoke now, "No matter about all that, we need to let him make the choice and not put any pressure on him. I think we all agree to that. As he knows he is here for, how does he put it…, Ah yes, the long haul. He has been making friends and integrating himself here so he has a purpose to stay and earn his way. Maybe Serenity you could start paying him for his work more that just have accounts set for his use. Do not really change the accounts, as he does still need to get more personal items. But he will feel better about himself and joining us if we really start treating him more normally. I am sorry if I am not as clear as Airia is, I am some one that is more action that words."

The Queen nodded here, "I hear what you are all saying even Rei who has not spoken but I can tell she agrees and supports Billy here. So we will not push and I will take your suggestion under consideration, a nice fair salary would not hurt anything. Now Airia, why are you so upset about this?"

Airia nodded to Rei in thanks before she spoke, "As has been said I see him the most out of all of us. As such, me and him have become very good friends, we have also shared much about our families as it helps him not feel so separated from his, but doing so has brought us very close. I fear that if my mother got word of mine and his close friendship, and he had a title of some kind, she would see if she could set up a contract between me and him. Even though I am the Champion of Mercury, she still sees me as the eldest Princess and that I need to marry because of that. I am getting off track, because me and him are such good friends that it hurts me to see others taking him for granted and not looking at the entire picture. That is the best I can put it my Queen." Here she dropped her head and sighed.

Rei held up her hand so that she could speak, as everyone there including the Queen was ready to start. "Airia, you are right. But we all know him fairly well from spending time with him. Granted the Queen knows him more from us than being able to sit down and talk to him a lot. He is all of ours friend and we do not want to lose that. So help us find a way to help here that shows that he is working with the Queen."

Before anyone had time to speak, a new voice entered the conversation, "There are things that Sir Rhodes-Tenashi can do without becoming a full ally, though anything with the military and such he has to ally to do, even join them for maneuvers or full combat training. He can join the Champions for several types of diplomatic missions or trips, as an observer only, but he can still join in many of those." Here a medium sized black cat hopped up on to the table and looked at everyone there. Beside being almost completely black there was a yellow mark on her forehead of a crescent moon. "Or have you all forgotten about that aspect of a Friend of The Moon?" She, as the voice coming from the cat was female, took and sat on the table waiting for the others to respond.

Of all the people here it was Keira that picked up the new conversation, "If I remember that aspect right, it was to allow a Friend to get a better understanding of the laws and procedures of the Realm. But also could only be on basically non-essential talks and such. I believe that there is only one such diplomatic mission currently, with a small empire that we only have a peace treaty with currently. Considering who it is, I wish that I was on rotation to handle diplomatic talks right now, their home world is gorgeous and a marvel of both Engineering and Bio-engineering. An Organic Colonnade or something, still it is breathtaking to see."

The Queen picked up the discussion here, "While you are right, this is not something to just throw at him. Plus I need to be sure that they will not mind us sending an observer to the talks, which could stop this before it goes anywhere. We do have two days before Airia and Rei are due to leave for the talks, I will contact their ambassador to be sure that us sending an observer will not be an issue. Personally I do not think it will but as I want to get this trade agreement in place with them soon, I am not going to take any chances at this point. I will let you all know their answer as soon as I get it. Thank you Lunara for remind us of that little peace of information on the Friends of The Moon we seem to have forgotten. But then there are not many named Friends that have actually gone on minor diplomatic trips in the last several years."

The black cat, Lunara, bowed to the Queen, "I am you personal diplomatic advisor, Your Highness. I need to know and understand many things, thus my frequent use of the diplomatic library and talking with various dignitaries or diplomats here on the Moon. Will I be going on this trade talk as well?"

"I think that is a good idea, plus Billy needs to meet you and get to know you because when he finally does ally with us you will take part of Airia lessons on foreign trade and other policies." Serenity looked at Airia here, "I really want you back in the normal rotation on a more normal basis and not having to switch out with the others as there is only four of you on the Moon currently. And having Lunara take over law and policy class for him will allow that. The other classes he is teaching can easily be scheduled for giving all of you a more normal schedule and more time each to really get to know Billy as the friend he has become, I just wish that myself and Iris were able to do this, but until he is an Ally we cannot make more time than has been made for him currently." Serenity sighed here and finished her drink. "Is there anything else? If not, I will be spending the rest of the evening with my daughter. That is after the last meeting this evening." She looked around and was about to stand up when Venus brought up a point.

"Your Highness, what do you think would have happened if Billy had called out Durjana? I know that some of the others really expected him to do so, and most know that it is best to quietly approach him and calmly talk about any issues they have with or about him. This is why there has not been an issue about this before now, as Durjana has only been on the Moon in his current position for a little over nine days now. What shocked me was that the group from Saturn really thought he was going to call him out later this evening and wanted to know where the dual was going to be, that is why I was late getting back from checking security just before the meeting. I ask because from the palace gossip after the dinner, most are more surprised that Durjana was not called out, and me adding your message to the others heading to my father I am willing to bet my next free day that daddy will have Durjana back on Venus in seven days or less." She went quiet with a bit of a grin that said that she was and was not sorry for talking so much just now.

Serenity nodded to Venus, "Not much really, though a few would have been appalled if someone of Billy's level had taken that action. That would not have been a dual in any way, Durjana is at best a second tier student; with Billy a fourth tier Master going on to fifth tier student in the not so distant future. The difference in skill and ability are galaxies apart. As to the rest of the gossip bomb you dropped, the Saturn Delegation I am not surprised about as they have a long-standing tradition of settling disputes by dual. For someone that has been here less than even half a cycle to be this disliked is a wonder, Durjana must be really good at his job to still have it the way he acts. Let your father know that I will help with his return if needed. Now goodnight all, I am going to get this last meeting done and then spend time Iris and then bed. I will send the ambassador a message tonight and hopefully have an answer sometime tomorrow morning about Billy attending the Talks as an observer." She got up here and walked to the door before she turned and said one last goodnight, and left.

The others took a minute to look at each other, before Venus started to follow the Queen to her last meeting of the evening. just before Rei decided to say something. "Well, that event did and didn't end up as a political show. It did as I think that this Durjana now holds the record for shortest time on the Moon as part of a diplomatic group. It didn't because Airia allowed Billy to get his anger under control before he spoke." She toasted Airia with her drink here, "I personally think that the second one is more important, and if Miranda's father is anything like mine Durjana is not going to like returning to Venus very much." Miranda just nodded and grinned here, almost evilly, as she left the room. "But moving on to the upcoming Talks, I was already worried as something has been making me feel off every time I think about the Talks, Airia you and I need to be alert and ready here, especially if Billy is with us. And that said I am off to bed as soon as the Queen finishes her last meeting and I am off for the rest of the evening, the Queen is right I will be so happy once we have a mostly normal rotation again and we are not so worn out in the evening. No offense Airia I know we needed and still need to help Billy get the knowledge he needs here, but even having you back on the afternoon schedule helps but not fully some days." And as she yawned Rei headed out the door.

Keira had moved over to Airia, "Hey, we don't mind the minor shift in the schedule right now as you are on for a full afternoon except for special events like today. We all like Billy and getting him caught up to what he needs is important, and as the Queen said after he Allies Lunara will take over the classes dealing mainly with laws and such, leaving just the history and advance language classes for you and us to cover. So do not even start to worry, besides we all need to get to bed, or do we Lunara?" She turned to speak to the cat at the end.

"No, I will be up for a little longer, checking on some things. Besides I do not need as much sleep as you all do. I will see you all around the palace tomorrow." With that she hopped down and left the room through a smaller door that was installed just for her species.

At this the others got up and headed off to their own beds, though Airia did say that while she understood, with the mission that she and Rei would be leaving on shortly, that Miranda and Keira would be relying more on the Alphas and Guards for support for almost a month. Keria responded that was why they were here, to support us when needed and that they all had duties, and this was some of theirs as well as some of the Guards and Alphas as well.

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Early the next morning, early enough that her guards would be surprised that she was up, the Queen made her way to the en-suite bathroom to take care of morning needs and start getting ready for the day. After she had finished and moved out into the main living space she shared with her daughter, still sound asleep for a couple more hours yet, Serenity moved to check for any overnight or early morning messages and was mildly surprised to find two, one had been sent very early in the morning local time, the other wasn't even thirty minutes old yet. She decided to play the newer one first.

A pleasant female voice spoke, "Good morning, Your Highness, Queen Serenity. I hope that this message is not to early for you as your message to me caught me just before I was about to head to sleep myself. I have been briefed that you may ask about sending an Observer, your new Friend of The Moon, to our Empires' upcoming Trade Talks. We have no problems with this as these talks are not really that sensitive and should be a great way for Sir Rhodes-Tenashi, did I pronounce his name right, to see the laws and policies in action. So that my superiors are clear here, we will welcome the addition of the Warrior / Protector to the talks as an observer, and as a people hope that he finds our culture and ways intriguing and as beautiful as we do ourselves. One more item before I conclude this message, I would very much like to speak to you about something that was recently brought to my attention, and may need to be handled carefully. This does not change the Trade Talks, or the addition of the Observer to them. Please respond when a good time is for us to meet, hopefully before the delegation leaves for the Talks if possible. Well that is all I have for now, May all your ventures work for you in both means."

Serenity just smiled and sent a reply that stated that no the time was fine, thanks for the quick and favorable response about the observer, and she had time for a chat at 2 that afternoon if that worked for them. Then she played the other message and got her response on why it was sent so late, Haven was about ten hours behind Moon Standard Time. As this was a message she had waited on now for almost two weeks, she prayed that is was at least some what good news.

This message started with a mans voice, "Queen Serenity, my we apologize for the delay in returning you initial message. This was mainly because we, as the training council of the Life-Dancers, had to check our own policies and contact the Dancers' Guild for their input. But at this time it gives me great joy to say that an old treaty with the House of the Moon does still allow for private training off of Haven or Edrani. That said, even with the information, holos, and other supporting data; we need to test him under our ways and with our equipment. This test is simple and quick if he even has the bare minimum of skill or basic ability. The sooner we can test him the sooner we can design a training schedule for him, and if it is one that needs to be set around another schedule is another reason why the sooner the test the better. In hopes that a quick test date can be set up I, Trainer O'nn, should be on the Moon by the time you read this message in a few hours. I am sending it from the ship LD-028 Haven's Dancer. I will reside on the ship for now. Yours in Peace and Life, O'nn Quin."

The Queen had to take a moment to gather herself and realized that this message was real, she had all but forgotten about that treaty with the Dancers, it allowed for private training on most of the realms worlds and for that training to be kept as quiet as the Dancers themselves wanted it. But it also gave the Dancers a few things in return, a small number of ships for their use, and a very small amount of materials and money from each world that agreed to the treaty. This last was because at the time Edrani was very poor in resources, but one thing was given to them that lowered the materials and money section drastically was when the Saturn ruling family gave them a small G-class world that was a near paradise and that had almost an abundance of resources for the Life-Dancers use. They in turn negotiated another treaty with the Moon, Mercury, and Saturn to help carefully mine the resources with a portion of any profits going to the other signatures' while the Dancers got about seventy percent of said profits. This had allowed them to pay for ship birthing and fuel as well as other items not covered in either treaty. They also use a large portion of their funds to help others in need of aid and were normally at the front of any disaster relief effort.

The Queen smiled as she realized that the Moon's newest Friend was helping them remember old treaties and polices that had been near forgotten, and as such was helping all parties involved, this boon would be returned, once they returned from Novas that was. This thought brought back that the ship now known as LD-028 Haven's Dancer was one of about thirty or so small Lunar Class light recon / transports, not all that roomy and fairly austere over all, the ships were very fast and boasted a large sensor array and communication system as well as moderate level of armor, but no weapons.

Serenity sent off a reply that she would see about stetting up a time for the testing, but how much was needed? She also told him that if he could get to the Palace by ten that morning she would have a few minutes to talk with him personally.

After she took the time to finish dressing herself, Serenity contacted Airia as she knew that Airis would have been up for about an hour now. After Airia had taken the call and looked a little surprised that it was the Queen and she, Airia, still not fully dressed yet tried to apologize. "Do not worry about it Airia, I know that you and the others really don't finish getting dressed until just before leaving your quarters. Anyway, I am not contacting you about this, it is about Billy joining you and Rianna on the Trade Talk mission, that is a go so please talk to him about it. You may want to point out that this is a way to silence those like Durjana. I will send him an information packet later this morning so that he will have a little time to go over it before you leave, not like he will not be able to go over carefully on the trip there. Now I need to get going as I have an early meeting with the delegation from Saturn about the visit late next month and we do need to get the basic ground work in place as I think they are bringing most of the family and heirs to the next Ball. Yes it will happen while they are here and will be announced while you are away, so let Rianna and Billy know as well. I will send you a message with the date in it before you leave. Now as I have not let you speak yet, do you have any questions that just can't wait? If not I will see you this afternoon as you are my guard today." The Queen gave Airia time to indicate that no she did not have question at this time, before ending the call and heading to her first meeting of the day.

While back in her quarters, Airia sat almost dumbfounded. Now she realized that the Queen must get up even before the Champions normally, or very close time wise, to have been already dressed and ready for the day at this hour. Then it hit, she had to talk to Billy about joining her and Rei on their upcoming diplomatic mission. It looked like the main class for today just got cut short unless… Putting thoughts into action Airia called Iria and asked her to increase Billy's breakfast tray by about thirty percent as she would be surprising him by being early today and Iria was to say nothing to him about her arriving early. She then finally got fully dressed and headed toward Billy's quarters glad that she had the short walk to get there as she could now try and get everything straight in her own head.

Airia arrived within enough time to see Iria just leaving and turn toward her, the grin that she gives Airia is almost feral for some reason. "So going to try and see if he is receptive to having a lovely lady in his room early in the morning? Though I feel that would work better later in the evening Princess." That comment stopped Airia in her tracks and she looked at herself and realized that she, in her haste to get here early, had grabbed one of the outfits that Miranda had gotten her a while back mainly as a joke. She blushed as she realized that she would not have time to go and change now, she would be late to the advanced Lunarian class if she did.

"Well that is what I get for being in a rush and not paying attention to what outfit I grabbed, I just may strangle Miranda this time as this was her idea of a joke gift awhile back. Oh well, no time to change and I am sure Billy will be the gentleman he has always been. Besides what I have to talk to him about is important enough to distract me as I put this on this morning. Iria, thank you for being a friend to him, and may fortune always fine you." She looked at his door and moved to knock even as Iria answered in kind, and give a little wink before she turned and headed off to do her other duties.

Knocking on Billy's door Airia swore at herself for not paying attention as she got her outfit out this morning, but reminded herself that with the Queen's early morning call and the information she had been given and now needed to give to Billy, she was understandably distracted. Then for Iria to point out the statement the outfit made… For Miranda it was normal, for her Airia it was going to be shocking. Before she could think on this anymore Billy open his door and looked at her for a moment before stating carefully, "Please do come in Princess, I was not expecting a formal meeting before or during class." As he stepped aside for her to enter.

As soon as Billy had closed the door Airia started blushing and gave vent to her nerves and frustration over a simple accident due to her distraction that morning. "I really want to strangle Miranda right now, as this outfit was a gift from her a little while back, and as she reminded me a gift is to be kept and worn, or used, at least once before getting rid of it. As she knows this is not my style of dress it was mainly a joke but has hung in my closet for close to a year now. Now before I give my news that will also help explain why I grabbed this today and am here so early, I need something to eat and I see that they did send a larger than normal breakfast tray, set for two… I should have asked them not to do that when I asked for the increase. Also why did you call me Princess just now?" As she moved to take a seat so they could eat and talk at the same time.

"Well, as to why I called you Princess, Airia, that was due to the fact that I have never seen you dress like Miranda so I thought that the outfit might have been something from Mercury that was somewhat formal. I mean a tight shirt that hugs you and the skirt is actually very nice and unlike the shirt it is not tight like something that Miranda would wear. With a cloak or short lady's cape you could pass it off as a dress outfit fairly easily Airia. Now why are you here so early, and I am fairly sure it is not just to share breakfast with me, though I would enjoy the company from time to time." Was the way Billy explained his actions and comments.

For a few moments Airia just looked like she was in thought before groaning before she spoke, "I should have realized it before, but the colors are off. This outfit is a semi-formal dress outfit worn with a cloak or a lady's cape on Venus. But that outfit is normally in oranges, reds, or pinks mainly, never deep blues like this one. If she had given me the cloak or cape I would have realized this right off, but with just the skirt and shirt it threw me. I will get a cloak to go with it later and use it for a semi-formal function later. Now as to why I am here, the Queen, us Champions, and one of the Queen's advisors have found a way to get diplomats like Durjana off you case. Basically, you can join some of the champions like me and Rei on a minor diplomatic mission. This would help you learn about how our laws and policies are used better, it may even help with your choice. We all decided not to push you there, but doing this could help, or not." She stopped and took a breath and a couple bites of food, and to see if he wanted to say anything yet.

He did, "It almost sounds like I am being asked to join you and Rei on this mission, the way your are talking about the basic benefits and all Airia. Is this something that just came up or what and what time frames am I looking at to decide if I want to go, how long will it be, and what would I need besides myself and such? I am sure more will come to me in time." He just looked at her for a bit before resuming his meal as well.

She nodded while she swallowed, "I am actually. I had hoped to talk to you about it first, but the Queen got confirmation that the small empire that me, Rei, and Lunara are to negotiate a base trade agreement with soon. We are scheduled to leave the day after tomorrow. If you do agree to come we will need to get you a couple more outfits that are semi-formal or formal, as you 'uniform' as you call it is not always going to be suitable on different worlds, especially in different realms or empires. As to how long the mission will be, about three weeks, but two of those are just traveling with a little over one set for the actual talks. That can change if needed but that is what has been agreed to at this time. What I want to know now is are you willing to join us, if so we need to get you a few things today so you can be ready when we actually leave. I am willing to call the language class today, as we will have extra time on the trip out to catch up. You should also sometime this morning get an information packet from the Queen with more details and information that will pertain mainly to you as an observer. Yes, you are there to observe the talks, you will be able to ask us questions in the evenings about things but will need to try and not get involved, they will most likely also have an observer or two learning about their procedures and such. Please agree to join us, yes it is short notice but we can work with that, and anything that I am not able to help you get this morning Miranda and Keira should be able to help with this afternoon. Just so you know Miranda is off later, while Keira is, I believe you call it, on-call if needed. We usually say waiting for need, but I like your way a little better." She actually almost looked like someone waiting to be told she can open her presents on Christmas morning, thought Billy as she finished talking and her portion of the breakfast.

Billy looked at her and sighed, "Yes, I will go. It is a chance to see the laws and all in action, plus see a new world, that alone for me is going to be odd as back home we had just really started to expand off Earth and even then not much could be done but plan and design the equipment needed currently. So for that experience I would love to go, also as a way to see how the laws and such are used in a situation like this. So what first?" Asked as he removes the tray to be picked up.

Airia thought for a minute, "I think first we should see about a few outfits, semi-formal, formal, and some others. As most of what you have from here is best worn while back in you quarters when we do things like this. And before you ask, yes outings or missions like this we tend to always wear at least semi-formal outfits when not in our quarters, and formal or our Champion uniforms while negotiating. During that you could wear your current uniform, but I would suggest you get something a little less… I guess military, as the Moon Family dress is not suited to a peaceful talk like the one we are about to go to. So we need to go and check some clothing stores out and not the Tailor's as we might not get the item back in time." During her dissertation about the clothing used during diplomatic trips, Airia had gotten up and was walking about the room. She stopped at a box that was setting on his desk and looked at it carefully.

Seeing her interest Billy spoke, "That was delivered last evening and I have not taken the time to open it and see what it looks like, would you like to do the honors and open it now Airia?"

She nodded even as she moved to open the box and see just what the R team working on the new laptop systems had sent Billy as a prototype test system just for him. If she knew the team like she thought she did, this system would not be anything like the one being produced for the populace of the Realm. But something close to what she had, and Airia was not sure how she felt about a non-allied Friend with such a system, then it hit her. The team was doing this to add an enticement to him allying, or she hoped.

Once she had opened the box she was looking at a mostly dark blue system that had red, yellow, and green highlights that looked like circuitry on the case, but just looking at it told her that they may be actual parts of the system sealed into the case. Carefully she took it out of the box, and Billy moved the box so she could set the system down in front of herself. While she did this Billy had taken out a couple items from the box including a small booklet that he was now reading, she opened the top and looked at the keyboard and monitor sections. It all looked normal to her, even the keys were in Lunarian but something told her that there was more to this system than she saw.

Billy nodded his head as he touched the four items that had also been in the box before he said, "I will need to be the first one to power this system on, the security is set that way so right now only I can power it up. I can change that later, but that seems to be a rather heavy security setting for a system to be sold to the people of the empire. I mean some of the stuff I have glanced at seems rather high end and more… military style… or…" Here he stopped for a few moments while he read more in the manual before looking at Airia and a little forceful asked, "Tell me did the Queen have a hand in this? From what I'm reading here this system seems to be somewhat like yours and that is classed as a military or special use system. These are things that I am not really allowed to have unless I am allied, which I am not yet. Airia, please tell me you know about this?" The worried and confused look that he gave her, almost hurt. He was so worried that something was wrong or that he could be in sever trouble if this was found out.

"No, I do not think that the Queen requested this for you to push you into allying, as I have no knowledge of this either. I think that the R team you have been working with did this on their own, which means that if the Queen finds out and does not approve the entire team will face disciplinary action under the law. But if we think about it they are most likely giving you and enticement to take the ally path, and I do not think you should turn this down. If I, a Champion of The Realm, trust you with this and I am duty bound to enforce the laws of the realm, then keep it and learn how to use it, who know you may get a chance on the trip to try a few functions and see how they work. Now start it up and get the initial settings finished. And I will handle the team and Queen if need be, hopefully no one will get in trouble." She moved to the side and motioned him to take the system and turn it on. "Also like I said before, take this with you when we leave so you can, I think you say 'Play with it' while we are away."

He just nodded to her and did as she requested, still obviously worried about this. "Well it is asking me about who is allowed and for me to use the remote sensor glasses, what are those? Also what are all these items Airia? And please I do not want anyone in trouble for this, I will turn this over if need be." Airia gently placed her hand on his shoulder while picking up a pair of what looked like miniature behind the ear hearing aids.

"This is the remote sensor glasses, they fit on your ears," she then shows him similar items attached to her ears as she continues "and can be used as part of a communications system like your 'cell phone' or with a music player. They can be left in and work as a filter or pick up if needed at times. Put them on, either ear is fine then just tap one of them twice and see what happens. As to the other three items; one is an attachment for holographic communications, it attaches to the side of the system there." Having picked the small disk shaped item up and indicated the connectors and the correct port on they system. "The next is a hand held sensor that looks like it is for medical use, I would need you to get it 'connected' to the system to know for sure. It will be a remote item so turn it on here and let the laptop sense it, I will walk you through the rest of that." Here she picked up what looked like a small folding tricorder from Star Trek TNG to Billy. He nods and sets it down after she hands it to him. "And the last looks to be something that I want for the my system, if it is what I think you have the first one to really be tested." She has picked it up and is just looking at it, at least till she noticed Billy looking at her and waiting with a smile. "Sorry, the technophile in me does come out at times. Open this up and attach it to the back and both sides of your new system, and when it is set the system will notify you. And before you ask it adds two holographic monitors above the main one and two holographic specialty keyboards on the sides, that is why I want one it will help keep data and such better organized when I am operating in that mode for that Champions." Having handed the item to him, Billy goes ahead and attaches it as told.

Billy did as Airia suggested and put the ear pieces on then double tapped the left one, and jumped when what looked like high-tech wrap shades formed in front of his eyes. This action made Airia laugh and apologize for not telling him what would happen when he did that, but she did teach him how to change the color and tent levels. During all this he entered her as having full access to anything not placed in his personal directory (he had already set that up while she went over the items). He then turned on the portable sensor and set it down as the system indicated that is was connecting to the item, he went ahead and checked on the last item's set up and found it was finished, the system popped up as he checked it. Following the instruction on the screen he placed his fingers at the point on the case just under the monitor on the left side and swiped two fingers toward the right and then watch in amazement as the additions Airia mentioned sprang to life ready to be used. To turn them off he just had to do the same thing again but from the right side of the system.

The last item, the remote sensor system was still syncing with the main system made Airia think it was a very advance system and not just a medical sensor. Once connected it was indicated to be, not only a medical scanner, but also a multi-use scanner for engineering, mining, data collection, and a few more things. This prompted Billy to tell Airia that she should have had this before him, as it would be more useful to her. Her counter was that he was testing a new scanner and she would most likely get a finished system later, but she was still a little put off that he got it first.

After all the excitement with the new laptop system, Airia reminded Billy that they still needed to see about a few new outfits for him that would be more what was needed for a mission like this. So heading out Airia led him to a new location on the palace grounds and got into a small aircar, this was all he could think the thing was it seated four and had a top that closed down when you were ready to take off. No wings or even air intakes or thrust outputs, Billy had no idea how this thing worked beside magic. He shrugged away his questions for now, got in and Airia spoke to the control panel the take them to the clothing district in the city.

Billy had been to the city around the Palace, but this was the first time he was going someplace other than the shops next to one of the gates. He knew that the shopping district was a fair distance away; ground transport would have taken close to two hours. He guessed they would get there faster in the aircar. Billy questioned Airia about the 'car' they were in and how it functioned, and she answered his question clearly, but also stated that he was going to learn about methods of transport in a few weeks when they started going over more modern history and thus that class would be more encompassing and detailed than his current one.

Once they had landed on top of a parking structure, which he found out was really one of the stores they were about to check for some now outfits more suited to formal and semi-formal events. Airia explained that they only had a couple hours before she had to be back for her rotation with the Queen. Thus they started a quick but actually successful trip to get Billy more clothing more suited to the position he now held, Warrior / Protector and Friend of The Moon. And for some hopefully soon to be Ally of The Moon.

The first shop turned out to be almost the only one they needed as it was a very large clothing store that handled everything from Pluto to Mercury, Formal to casual, exercise to swimwear and everything in between, plus more specialized outfits. Billy got a few outfits in both formal and semi-formal from Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. But he did find a very nice outfit of Lunar design that he got, it could easily go from semi-formal to formal by changing the jacket or overtunic and adding a cape or cloak. It was very similar to his Moon Uniform, but was a dark blue almost black color with red and a lighter blue for highlights, but what Billy liked was that he could move and fight in it easily if needed.

After they checked three more shops for little extras like belts, shoes, and a few extra capes or cloaks, they headed back to the Palace. Airia suggested to Billy that he ask Iria to make sure all the new items got cleaned today and that they all needed his family patch and the Lunar patch added to them, but also he needed the Warrior / Protector crest so that he could put on the outfit he was going to wear. She then had to leave for he rotation protecting the Queen.

Iria answered the servant call quickly, as Billy had never used it till today. She was more that happy to make sure all the new outfits were fully cleaned and had the patches added to them, but all that would most likely mean they would be returned the next morning. Billy had no problem with this and asked about the crest that Airia mentioned. It took Iria several minutes checking on her small portable servant PDA device to make sure that they even had the crest and where they were, she told him he would need to go to the Military Quartermaster near the Armory and ask for them, she suggested that he get several so that he could have them on various outfits in case he needed to change quickly.

On his way to the Quartermaster, Billy met Jupiter. She was in full Champion mode, as she had to be ready to assist the Queen, or one of the two Champions on duty if needed. They talked while they walked, and it turned out she was headed to the armory as the Queen wanted her to pick up two items for him. He was getting these weapons for personal defense only should the need arise during the trip. Rather than get something that he did not like, or maybe was not that good with, Jupiter asked him to join her and she would go with him for the crest.

At the Armory Billy picked a Mercurian sword and what he called a blaster pistol, both he was checked on even though his file easily showed he was trained in the use of both. He was also issued a holster for the pistol that was easy to add to any outfit, he also asked for one that sat lower on the thigh as well. He was issued one as well, and the proper scabbard straps to place the sword on hip or back as needed. The Quartermaster's office or shop, as the place was setup very much like a shop with displays and everything. They were shown a selection of what he called 'W/P Crest' as they symbols on them were designed to match the main way, or ways, the individual fought. After looking over the selection, Billy asked for five of the crest with a sword and fist on it. Nodding the Quartermaster went back into the storehouse and got the requested items and handed them over. He said that Billy had an account here through the Palace so that they were already paid for.

The rest of the day Billy went to the development group that he was working with the tablet computer, laptop, and media player with and thanks them for the new laptop. Then it was back to work, Billy making a few suggestions for extras once the items go on sale.

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While Billy was helping the development groups on the projects Mercury was having a quick but private chat with the Queen in between her meetings today.

"Your Highness, I need to report that the laptop that was sent to Billy was not the alpha test system that he was scheduled to get but a system very similar to my Mercury Link System. I decided to allow him to keep it for now thinking that the team sent it to him as an enticement to join us, but also as a thank you for all the information, suggestions, and help with the projects. I am reporting this to you as needed, what do you require with this situation now My Queen?" Airia kept it quick and to the point, hoping that Queen would allow things to stay as they were. "Billy has already stated that he is willing to give up the system so that the team and himself do not get into trouble for this."

The Queen nodded as Airia finished reporting as she had to on this, as it was a matter of law and policy. She took a moment before speaking, "I actually already knew of their intent to send him what they are calling 'The Guardian System.' It is not as powerful as the Mercury Link but can be linked into every system that your Link Is currently. As his skills are tested the programing will be adjusted to better fit his knowledge and abilities. I decided that it would come in handy for him even if it never is connected into the fully Imperial Network like you are Mercury." She looked at a timepiece next tot door of the sitting room before sighing.

Airia thought for a moment then stated, "I understand You Highness, the lack of the additional connections prevents this from breaking any laws as there are other systems out there that are fairly powerful by themselves. Is there anything I can do for, or get, you Your Highness?"

"Not right now, but I have sent a few items to your and Rei's quarters. They are for use during the upcoming talks, read the information packets and you will understand. Billy is not to be told as all Observers will be asked to leave the meeting for this. Only tell him if you must, other wise just follow the packets I send the two of you. I know this is vague, but I really do not feel it is safe to talk about this outside of a secure room. Your new briefing packet will explain everything." She looked over at the timepiece again before getting up, "Time to get ready for the next meeting. Lets go." The last part was said mainly to herself as today was packed with meetings with various delegates, representatives, and diplomats. All want something for as close to nothing as they could get.

Airia Nodded and preceded the Queen back out into the throne room, to be ready for the next meeting of representatives for a group that wanted to set up a colony on one of the larger asteroids around the system, and wanted the Crown to back the effort. She shook her head thinking that all they really wanted was the safety net that having royal back provided, namely military and Champion rescue if needed. Once she scanned the room the Queen came in and sat on the throne while Mercury took up her post nearby and waited.

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After a rater full day Billy took and did a basic practice before heading to bed, not realizing that Airia, Keira, and Reanna were all doing the same; so was Serenity after making sure to spend time with her daughter just as family. The next day would be busy again but in different ways, packing and getting ready for the trip Novavra for the trade talks. Thanks to Airia and Miranda when she had popped over as he was leaving the development meeting and took he out to get a couple more outfits and some other personal items like cologne and bath items when she found out that he was still using what he had after arriving.

Deciding to start to look the part he was supposedly in now he picked one of the new outfits that had just been returned, folded and ready to be packed in the trunk that had been delivered with his information packet the day before while he was out getting things he needed and not just for the trip. He packed a few things in his backpack, including some emergency ration bars and water packs he picked up from the Quartermaster that morning as some just in case items. He had picked up two new items for his new laptop and Airia's M.L.S., how she hated him calling it that, all this did was allow for a limited interface to be projected from a forearm bracer that was linked to one of their systems. Between the visor shades and the bracer interface he and Airia shouldn't need to pull out their respective systems that much he hoped. But this could be an initial field test of the bracer interface, and he intended to do everything he could to test it out. Just like he was going to be playing around with his new system as much as he could during this trip.

During his history lesson about the initial founding of the Moon, and other colonies as sovereign nations and the ensuing conflicts with the Earth, some 2500 years ago in their history. The Moon Empire, or Queendom was founded about 500 years after they became a sovereign nation that was first set up as a republic. How long it has remained and grown is why the Moon Empire is sometimes called the Millennium Empire. Later as the lesson was ending Airia asked if he had been able to get his things ready, and getting that he was ready and packed. She mentioned that the Queen had him scheduled to meet someone name O'nn Quin just after lunch in one of the meeting rooms near the Guest Wing, about checking something. O'nn would explain what was needed and why once he met him. Billy nodded and let her know he would meet this O'nn Quin later.

Just before Airia was to leave for her 'day job' as Billy called it and explained the joke behind it he asked at what time they were to leave and when should they meet up and where at. This was not in the information that he had been sent. Realizing that Billy had yet to have been to the port, Airia just told him that she and Rei would be by about an hour or so after the breakfast hour to take him to the port, and that they would help him with any luggage then. Parting with their normal comments Billy headed to a slightly early lunch so he could make the meeting a little earlier than it was set for, as he had questions that needed to be answered that he knew Airia would not be able to answer for him.

After having a light meal and arriving at the correct meeting room and finding it empty, Billy just sat down, took out the new laptop and started checking it out and reviewing settings in some of the various programs and such. Billy had arrived about half and hour early and it wasn't until about five till the set meeting time that another arrived. He looked at Billy and then the room before speaking.

"I thought that I was assigned this room to meet someone today, so unless I am mistaken I believe that you may be in the wrong room." When Billy looked over at him while closing the laptop, he noted that he had brought nothing with him, but that did not discount this person having something in the robes he was wearing. Taking a natural attitude here, as the gentleman had been polite here. Billy carefully placed the laptop back into its carry back on his hip (he loved that he could have it shrink down small enough for that), stood and faced the man.

"Well, Good Sir, if you are O'nn Quin then we are both in the correct place. I had hoped to catch you here early to ask a few questions that the message I got did not answer. So I guess I arrived a little to early and just waited." Noting the slight shift when he asked if he was the one he was to meet Billy just relaxed his stance fully, the table was between then so he should have time to react if needed, but he hoped he was reading the other wrong.

O'nn took the few moments of silence after the candidate that the Moon Queen was putting forward stopped and stood up relaxed like he had no care in the world. Well let's see how he handles himself, the queen said he has some ability with life force manipulation and is a trained warrior. Time to do the old attacker test and see if he has any real skill with life force use. I doubt he can use it in combat so this should be fun for me, I have not gotten to play around with a candidate in a few years. O'nn thought as he prepared his opening attack to just miss by a small margin. Quickly raising his hand and tossing off a low powered blast in a quick move gave O'nn his first shock as his target was already clear of the attack by a huge margin and in the process of clearing the table between that before he returned an essence blast of his own that he had no hope of clearing before it impacted. Also the fact that this Sir Rhodes-Tenashi still had a completely neutral expression worried him, even as he tried to move out of the attack that did catch him on his right side and arm and then proceeded to blow him painfully into the wall behind him.

Even before he can gather himself O'nn feels himself being roughly grabbed and lifted to a standing position. Then to his surprise he feels a little of the pain ebb from an external force, enough for his eyes to clear and see who has him by the throat. And in a way he wished for the pain back as he now realized he had squared off with a master and one that understood life force use a lot better than he thought. The face was still neutral and impassive but the eyes blazed with fire, and the hand that help him was stronger that expected, but the clincher was the fist pulled back and ready to strike was glowing with life essence and the small ball of the same held with in told him he was in serious trouble unless he could take his way out of this quickly.

O'nn was careful as he spoke, "I am O'nn Quin, Master and one of the lead testers of the Life Dancers. And I do believe I choose the wrong method to test your ability at Life Manipulation and Control. I really should stop looking for a chance to terrorize a candidate with out knowing fully what they can do. I am sure that there are guards on their way after the dual blast we just let off, not to mention I expect one of the Champions here as well. Again, I apologize for my hasty actions in search of some fun on my part. I would bow but you have me pinned to the wall."

At this point Champion Jupiter three others in a uniform that was slightly different from the five guards that followed rushed into the room. Took stock of the situation and Jupiter started laughing, making the other eight just look at her oddly.

Jupiter took a few steps forward and spoke, "Sir Rhodes-Tenashi, please let Trainer Quin down and relax your attack please. I think I know what happened here but can someone please explain why the Palace just had a weakish blast then one that shook the Guest Wing, leading to the entire Guest Wing being evacuated and us finding the two of you, who were supposed to be talking with each other about something, in a position that makes me think that Trainer Quin entered saw you and took a shot at a fourth tier master who knows how to use his life force in a few ways already?" Please tell me I am right so I can collect from the Queen the 50credits we bet on this or a nice calm meeting happening, though this is a little beyond what I expected.

While Jupiter had talked Billy had released his hold on the person he had expected to talk to here only to be attacked, and stepped back. He bowed to her, "I am sincerely sorry Champion Jupiter for what happened but when the one I was here to meet throws a ki-blast my way I tend to react and retaliate, though this time I was going to talk rather than send him to the medical wing. I still do not understand why he attacked though he said it was a mistaken attempt to test me and have some fun at the same time." Billy turned to O'nn, "is this normally how you arrive to talk to someone interested in learning more about something they are able to do?"

O'nn had paled when he learned that this candidate was a fourth tier martial arts master, while himself was but a third tier student. That explained why he got his rear handed to him so fast. "First off, Champion I too am sorry that this escalated as fast as it did, I only hand a basic knowledge of Sir Rhodes-Tenashi's skills and sorely misjudged the way I should open the testing. It has just been so long before I have been able to terrorize a candidate that I took a chance here forgetting two major things in the process. One, we are currently at the Moon Palace and I am a guest while Sir Rhodes-Tenashi is a Friend of The Moon, and second, I really should know more about my opponent before starting a fight I have no chance of winning." He turned to Billy, "and no this is not how we normally do things. I made a very bad choice that I am sure the Queen will call me on later. But I can and will say that you possess far more than a basic understand of Life Manipulation and Control, I can easily class your ability as mid level and will work out a training schedule with the Queen shortly. Most likely I will not be training you as I normally only deal with beginners and apprentices to our art, you are not either. Oh and thank you for deciding you wanted answers and not putting me were my initial actions should have placed me in this instance." Here he bowed to Billy.

Billy took a few moments to think about the situation before speaking, "Let me guess, you had aimed so as to just miss me but a very narrow margin wanting to see how I reacted and responded, and got way more than you expected?" O'nn just nodded here. "Well, next time you choose a combat test, do so in a better location not one were you may be on the wrong side of the local guards and such." He motioned toward the guards and Jupiter, the guards seem to be still trying to figure out what happened and is now going on. "I as I now understand what this meeting was to be about, I will accept your apology. But next time, I think sitting down and talking first about what you want to do would be a lot safer for all involved.

Here Billy finally relaxes and leans on the table letting out a breath, "Now I am expecting the Queen to maybe tear into me over this as well…" Jupiter held up her hand as he had started this line.

"No, she will not as you were basically attacked and responded to defend yourself in kind but stopped once you had things under control and sought answers. This is what she would expect of anyone staying at the Palace. It is just the big explosions that shake part of the Palace that she dislikes. I have one question, that blast you hit me with during your testing was it pulled?" She looked right into his eyes here.

"No, it was the same level as the one here. I knew he would dodge mostly out of the path so just used the same. If it had hit him full on, he would have been in a trauma bed for several days." Billy stopped here to catch Trainer O'nn as his knees gave on him.

"Well that is it, I have learned a lesson here. Never attack someone unless I know what they can do first. And if that is the Queen I hear approaching, I may have been better off in that trauma bed right now." He stood up nodded to Billy for the help and braced himself from what he felt was coming. Jupiter motioned Billy to join her as the door opens and the Queen, Mercury, Venus, and about fifteen more guards in the different uniform enter the meeting room, making it some what cramped inside, before she has all but five of the guards that came with her leave and return to their post.

"Judging by the two blast marks I own someone some credits later, now can someone explain to me how a meeting to discuss testing an ability and the talk about training seems to have almost turned into a war in here? We have several worried diplomats that had to be evacuated from this wing due to the sounds and that the wing shook slightly the second time." She watches as Jupiter motions Billy to be quiet as she then gives her report on her findings and the talk she had with both Billy and Trainer Quin. After listening to Jupiter's report she looks from Billy to O'nn, "All I am going to ask is who attacked first and who is the one that scorched the wall here, and damaged the table, floor, and a few of the chairs?" And she just stared at O'nn here.

He Bowed to her as she entered and again here noting that Jupiter prevented Sir Rhodes-Tenashi from bowing when the Queen entered, indicating that he had some favor with the Queen even if he did not know it yet. "I was the one that attacked first, I forgot where I was and that to attack someone that I do not know their actual skill level is very dangerous at times. The light scoring across the room is from my attack, this here is Master Rhodes-Tenashi's…" He looked at Billy when he groaned at the title, "I picked perhaps the worst way and timing to test a new candidate in this situation, forgetting a few old saying that talk about wanting something and what you may get. I am also willing to make any reparations for the damages caused due to my bad choice." He bowed again as he finished thinking, the guild is going to have my hide over this one, I just know it.

Serenity nodded to his explanation before turning to Billy, "Normally I would question you here, but as Jupiter has reported and Trainer Quin is well known to me I have no need for you to add more here. But please try and refrain from things like this in the future, I am not sure some of the diplomats can take scares like this very often." Billy nodded and bowed at her request before she continued, "Now O'nn, I take it that you got the information you want to get, and now I want to have a word or two with you here. The rest of you, besides Mercury and my guards should return to what you were doing before this, So Jupiter return to waiting for more explosions or something, Venus check the overall security for this wing then return to the throne room, and Master Rhodes-Tenashi, do make sure you are ready for tomorrows trip." No-one in the room missed her use of the new, and accurate, title that everyone had forgotten Billy had earned with his fourth-tier hand to hand mastery.

Everyone bowed and either left the room or stayed inside, this latter group consisted of the Queen and O'nn Quin who look nervous about something even as the Queen smiled at them all as them left them alone. As the door shut Billy hear the Queen start saying, "Now my old friend care to explain have a simple discussion became this?" before the door cut off the sound.

Mercury just gave a small smile as she took position in front of the door while the guards here took positions about the hall. "Just go and make sure you have everything you need or want for tomorrow, no-one is really in trouble. Though I believe that Trainer Quin will be explaining this till the Queen is happy, as that will be the story that will be released tonight or tomorrow morning as to why the Palace's Guest Wing had to be evacuated today. And be ready for some people asking about it, just stick to what was already said and there will be no problems. Now Jupiter, how many credits did you bet on this happening? I got fifty myself, as I expected anyone that wanted a privet meeting trying something and getting, as Billy says, handled." She smiled at Billy again.

Billy waited until Jupiter replied that she also got fifty but had not expected to have explosions that shook part of the castle. To which Billy stated, "How long before I live this incident down? Or is this a good thing?"

Jupiter, Mercury, and the nearby guards all just laughed. Keira put a hand on his shoulder, "Come on, I will walk a bit with you, and just accept what happens as you are now officially a resident, not guest anymore, of the Palace." She waves to Mercury as the head off toward the Guest Wing and the rest of the day.

Chapter 6 FIN