Going The Distance, Jedi Mission

The beautiful neat cities of Hapes reminded the young Jedi of his trip to Alderaan; built for their beauty as much as for their use. None were a mark upon the natural beauty surrounding the busy hub, but complimented well with the lush forests and immaculate grassy plains nearby. Jensen had seen it all from high above in his fighter, Kyte. The palace was easy enough to spot, towering up out of all the other buildings. It was by far the most expansive of any structure in the area, not only in height but also surface area. How anyone would need so many rooms Jensen would never know, but understanding the effects such a show has on people, he guessed it was to symbolise their power and wealth. That was certainly the effect it had on the Guardian, as his craft lowered into a small landing pad inside the palace grounds. It was where the gruff, disinterested voice had told him to go over the intercom a few minutes ago, and Jensen assumed it was to allow the Jedi to come in without drawing public notice. Normally this place would be used by representatives from the many cities and businesses within the Hapans control, but for today it would be the entrance for two undercover guards for the Royal Family.

Jensen knew little about his partner this time, although there were many that knew of him. It was common knowledge of his relationship with the Councilor Shay Marin, and that he was an experienced Jedi in all respects. Apparently he had been to Hapes before, and had been the one to secure Shedu Maad for Jedi use. It made him a good choice for the mission. Other than that Jensen had been unable to gain much information on him, but not for lack of trying. He would be arriving in his own craft, since neither of them had one large enough to carry the two of them. The Isenian was unsure whether he was the first here, but hopefully he wasn't; facing such a species, with their hatred of Jedi, was not going to be fun with or without Lysander. This was not a mission Jensen could get wrong, and it was so delicate getting it right was like tightrope walking.

Diplomacy mixed with protection was an ultimate show of mental and physical strength combined. For the next however long, Jensen was unable to turn off in any sense. They had to protect the Royal Family from assassins hoping to throw the entire Consortium into chaos. Instantly Jensen's mind began to try and solve the puzzle, even if he disliked puzzles a lot, running over possible reasons they had for this. The obvious one would be the anti-Jedi sentiment rife in Hapes. It had been the Queen that had granted the Order use of Shedu Maad, and if anyone found out there would be riots, perhaps if someone had found out assassination was another consequence. He'd have to be suspicious of everyone, which wasn't going to be something hard for the Isenian to do; he didn't rely on anyone he didn't know. Everything, no matter what it was, would be done by him and him alone until he knew he could trust in the other. Lysander of course was different. Being a senior Knight, Jensen expected his professionalism, but the Hapans... They were different beings altogether.

Kyte settled softly on the metallic surface, its struts bending with no complaint but with an elegance that made Jensen's heart warm. The little craft was a very reliable companion. It's only downside was how small it was, which prevented Jensen from transporting his Varactyl with him, despite how inappropriate the creature would be on such a mission. With a whispered noise the cockpit opened and Jensen hoisted himself out. He was dressed in robes, but they weren't of the Jedi sort. No one would know they were Jedi, and so the itchy brown clothing had been discarded in favour of the latest fashions in galactic wear. The Isenian had been assured that this was what all Hapans would be wearing, and so he'd fit right in easily.

A representative had obviously been sent to meet the two Jedi, and stood with two guards flanking him as he eyed Jensen with curiosity. No doubt he was wondering where the other was, but despite his inquiring stare Jensen didn't give an answer; Lysander Odakota would be here soon. Instead he reached back inside the cockpit, taking out the few weapons he'd be permitted to carry with him for the safety of the Queen and her family. For the most part Jensen's trusty S-5 Heavy Blaster pistol would be his primary weapon, should he had to openly combat the assassins, but that was only one part of his armoury. Antidotes would come in handy should a more stealthy attempt at the Royal Family's lives be made, but the most surprisingly, and possibly the one thing that may bring some strange looks in the direction of the young Knight, was his katana. It was for this reason he wanted the thing in the first place. Even if his lightsaber would still be with him, if not hidden very well, he wouldn't be able to use it unless the situation got really serious. The katana was his way of keeping his strengths; all those Forms he'd been trying at for years, while keeping his Jedi identity hidden. Few would know it was an ancient Jedi weapon, and even less would jump to the conclusion he was a Jedi for it. They were all over the galaxy, and Jensen doubted it was just museums that owned them. For the most part it would be kept beneath his layers of long, flowing blue robes, only the hilt protruding into view.

As he was arranging it on his belt, trying to balance between comfort and practicality, Jensen turned his eyes to the sky, hoping Lysander would be arriving soon; talking to the representative could only be put off until he ran out of things to occupy him, and the katana was very nearly secured in place. Soon he'd have to approach him and engage in a battle of words that Jensen sensed in every diplomatic situation. If Lysander did so brilliantly the first time, maybe he'd be happy to take on the role of communicator with the Hapans, while Jensen simply kept his eyes open for attacks.

Jensen would just be finishing up with what little he could busy himself with when the Aurek fighter showed up overhead. A few months back, the sleek form of the starfighter would have been an eye-offending shade of sparkly pink, courtesy of a less than enthused Jedi Master. Of course, that phase of color had passed very quickly as the owner had not taken kindly to the paint job.

Now the ship that came swooping into the hangar at a sedate pace was a rather fresh hue of silver and maroon. Clearly the pilot was a skilled one as he came in low but safely over the top of the Kyte and those that were starting to converge near her. The Living Force had finally arrived, and with her, Jedi Knight Lysander Odakota.

He hadn’t been to this planet in a time now. When he had, it had been a harder thing to get into this building. He’d nearly been thwarted a number of turns. It was nice to now be able to land simply through the ‘back door’ as it were, and not have to ‘diplomacy’ his way through the front. He was in good terms with the Queen Mother.

Of course, she and those closest to her were the only ones who knew he was a Jedi. He’d been assured by her before attending to this mission that those guards he had seen in his first time here would not be in attendance in the castle during his visit. Whether that meant they were on leave, had died for some reason or another, or were no longer in service of the Queen Mother for other reason, he did not know. But it was for the best as they couldn’t do this with rumors of Jedi floating about.

Hapes was a treacherous place, really, even on the best of days. This was a lesson best learned without making mistakes.

The hatch on the Aurek fighter opened with a lazy hiss and the pilot emerged with a sense of innate grace in his movements as he hopped his way to the ground. The Aurek’s hatch closed even as the ship went through its final power down motions. Lysander was dressed in robes similar in cut to his fellow Jedi, and would fit in just fine with their Hapan surroundings. The comfortable fabric was a lightly patterned mix of slate blue and navy hues.

He appeared to be only lightly armed, with a DL-44 blaster pistol on his left flank and a vibroknife sheathed right before it. His belt had several other pouches, but he didn’t seem to have anything with explosive properties hidden away within them. Explosives didn’t suit this sort of situation, anyways. They were bodyguards, first and foremost.

Those who knew him well enough, though, knew that what one saw could be deceiving. Indeed, Lysander never parted with his lightsaber. For now it was very much out of sight, but it was easy to rest assured he had it on his person, and close at hand should he need to use it. Chances were, though, anyone who saw that blade in his stay wouldn’t have reason to remember later. That weapon was officially on his ‘worst case scenario’ list for this assignment.

Despite the rather serious situation, the senior Knight was all smiles. He lifted a hand in greeting to Jensen. “Sorry I’m later than you. Had hoped to make it first, but coordinating hyperspace drops is oft easier said than done.” He shrugged lightly in apology before moving over to their greeting party.

((What’s the Hapan’s reaction to the new ‘bodyguards’ showing up? What instructions are the Jedi given? Is there any immediate danger in the surrounding area that the Jedi should take immediate interest in?))

((The representative eyes the two Jedi suspiciously and from his expression, it is clear he doesn't have the slightest clue to either of their true identities. He checks a timepiece as the pair approach, clearly, the representative has more pressing activities to attend to. Once before the representative, he announces their tardiness and says he doesn't like to be kept waiting. Adding, that if this is how the new bodyguards to the Queen conduct themselves, they should start the preparations for the state funeral in haste.

Without further conversation, the representative turns on his heels and takes off at a brisk walk. The only sign that he gives the Jedi to follow is a harsh wave of his fingers, beckoning them like dogs. The guards turn and follow, their armoured footfalls struggling to keep up with the pace the representative is keeping.))

The sight of another ship descending towards the landing bay was met with excitement by Jensen. This was his partner, Lysander Odakota, and this would be their first meeting. The Aurek landed with the same mechanisms as Kyte, powering down as its task completed. From now on it would be the Jedi inside that would ensure the success of this mission. To many the burden of lives would bring immense amounts of pressure, but even Jensen was beginning to get used to it. Already he'd had the responsibility over others, even at his young age, and in his opinion so far he'd done a good job. Some had died, of course they had. The Isenian wasn't a god, he could only protect so many, but if he had to go through those events again he would, and he wouldn't change a thing. For better or for worse those events shaped him into the man he was today. Whether the memory was painful or not, it was what made him what he was now. It was what prepared him for this mission in one way or another.

The Guardian turned to greet his colleague. His features weren't the most welcoming, but this was down to his curiosity rather than any discontent with his partner. Lysander was a senior Knight within the Order, and as such Jensen wondered what his behaviour would be. The prospect of spending so long, and in such close proximity with a man of Nathanial's disposition wasn't too enticing for the young Jedi. There had been no rumours Lysander was like that, but one could never tell. People changed on missions, people reverted to their training when danger loomed and allowed their friendly nature, gained from who they truly were, to step back and take a rest until the situation changed. But Jens still gave a small smile as the elder Jedi got out of his craft, then returned the wave directed at him.

“Sorry I’m later than you. Had hoped to make it first, but coordinating hyperspace drops is oft easier said than done.”

"It's fine, I've only been here a few minutes myself." he replied cordially, turning on the spot to follow Lysander closely behind.

It was strange really, how professional Jensen often first seemed. Stepping into line wasn't hard for him, nor looking the part of able defender of the weak and needy. No one had ever thought the Isenian wasn't good at completing missions, it was normally only the manner in which he went about it that raised eyebrows. He wasn't one to back down, even if the situation was tight, which no doubt would aid him here where it usually failed in other places. It would be a tiring mission mentally if Lysander wasn't one to allow a certain amount of freedom, but from his first impressions Jensen believed the elder Knight to be reasonably relaxed. Force, if not they were going to drive one another insane.

From the Hapan representatives reaction it's clear he's not happen. Impatiently he checked his watch as the two approached him, before replacing it back into one of the pockets and giving the pair an incredulous look, as if surprised they had the tenacity to show up at all. Already, in the first few seconds of being on the planet Jensen wished to go home. If this was the representative of the Royal Family it didn't say much for the rest of them. Perhaps it truly would be better if Lysander took the reins and acted as mediator, because Jensen doubted he'd have anything kind to say towards them.

"You're late, very late. I have better things to be doing than waiting around here for you. If this is your professionalism than we may as well prepare her majesties funeral."

He spoke with a certain elegance that really cut deep into Jensen's patience with the man. If it hadn't been for his training the Isenian would surely have made a harsh reply, or shown his displeasure in some other outward way. But as it was Jens simply stood there, blank faced and entirely unimpressed at the man. Better things like getting his head out of his arse, he thought, still only watching the Hapan with disinterest. It had been with some luck Jensen had never had to put up with people like this in his years travelling the galaxy. The only ones that acted this way were usually fair game for a reply of abuse, and thankfully many even took it so far as to physically back their arrogant statements. Self-defense was always allowed, although Jensen was sure sometimes he took it further than most would permit. They survived, but the Isenian usually made sure they never forgot why self-belief could be a vice. When the Hapan turned to wander off, only giving them a wave of the hand to show he wanted them to follow, Jensen remained silent. A glance to Lysander was the only thing that gave his feelings away about this whole episode; he seemed to be inquiring whether the behaviour was normal with a slightly confused furrow of his brow.

The pace was quick, but that wasn't a problem for Jensen. Walking quickly was something he usually did; he was always rather energetic and impatient to get places, however it wasn't nice having to obey such a rude man. Had he not been on a mission the Isenian was sure he'd have not gone anywhere when the man beckoned. Hell, even if they were in the middle of a firefight Jensen would rather not leave on demand from this irritating little man servant. There were many things that got to the young Guardian, but most of all it was being treated without respect for no good reason, as well as being ordered about like some mindless droid. It was aggravating, and if this was what he had to put up with for however many days and nights they were here then Force help those around him, because he'd snap, it was just a matter of time.

"The Queen wishes to see you in private first, which will throw everything off schedule," the Hapan representative continued with disdain as they strode through the great corridors of the palace, passing intersections that seemed to go on forever. "Then you will be accompanying her on various excursions and meetings with representatives. I assume you're both aware of your duties?"

There was something about the way he asked the last question that seemed to suggest the two Jedi were buffoons, unaware even what their task was here. Of course, like any man who mixed with high society he had a way of mixing his words to make them sound less offensive than they actually were, thus protecting himself from any publicly justifiable scorn. Exactly the reason Jensen, an Isenian from the relative simple life of Iseno and then the Order did not sit well with such an atmosphere. They continued on with the heavy air around them until they reached one of the many luxurious looking rooms along the wall. The guards followed some way behind, which again made Jensen uneasy about the entire thing, but halted along with the representative as he turned to the two Jedi.

"Her Majesty and the Prince are waiting inside to receive you," he almost sighed, motioning to the door but not making a move to open it at all. To Jens it seemed he didn't view the pair as anything more than glorified guardsmen.

Jensen gave Lysander another exacerbated look before taking the lead and opening the door for him, waiting for him to step through first. To many it would seem a rather gentlemanly act, but in Jensen's mind it was better that Lysander entered first. They'd assume he was the leader, thus asking him all the questions, and it would also give Jens a template of the correct etiquette. This was how the Isenian worked in situations he didn't truly understand; copying the behaviour of others. It had gotten him through plenty of hard times, and hopefully this would be no different.

(( What's the Queen and Prince's reaction? Is there anything they want to discuss with the Jedi in private? Do they give any information as to why they're being targeted? Are they willing to allow questions from the pair of Jedi? ))

((The queen, dressed in regal splendour, adorned with precious metals and jewels, greets the Jedi warmly. Wallking to meet them, she holds her head high and maintains a steady gait that seemed more appropriate for a gala evening. The prince, dressed in a lavish overcoat of silks and rich embroidery, stands by the window and gazes out. He gives the Jedi a glance before retuning his attention to the view. Both the Jedi can feel the fear and anxiety rippling from the young man.

The queen, on the other hand, displays no anxiety at her position. This isn't her first assassination attempt and now takes attempts on her life in stride. Stopping before the Jedi, she inspects them briefly before giving the semblance of a bow; an honour, all things considered. After introductions all round, she apologises for Vespasian, the man they had the misfortune of meeting. The queen explains that he is head of security and feels that the bringing in of outsiders as a personal insult and not to take his temperament to heart. She speaks as one of an aristocratic background and is clearly an accomplished orator with a hidden power behind her words.

Beckoning the Jedi further into the lavish surroundings, she directs them to a set of sofas and a lavish high backed chair. Lowering herself into the chair, she nods for the Jedi to sit. The prince tears himself from the window and joins them across the room, standing beside his mother with his arms crossed. After a moments silence, the queen gives asks what they need of her.))

"It's fine, I've only been here a few minutes myself."

The senior Knight nodded in approval of this statement as he passed the other, taking the lead as they approached their Hapan greeting party. A few minutes was almost too convenient for Jensen, really. Waiting was often much longer than that in this galaxy. But despite it not giving the younger man a chance to exercise patience, getting here approximately at the same time did make this whole scene easier on everyone involved.

As he’d suspected they would, the Hapans they met with initially were none to happy with being kept waiting, even for a second.

Hapans were notoriously unwelcoming of strangers and outsiders. The Guardian knew full well that they were likely to be treated with much in the way of respect. Perhaps the only one who would give them their dues was the Queen Mother, and she only because she knew what they were and had asked for them herself. Of course, her acceptance of them, even as Jedi, was impressive within itself. Lysander didn’t need the approval of petty underlings to do his job, and do his job is all he intended to do.

The man they approached checked his time piece, emphasizing the movement of such in just the way that Lysander knew he intended the gesture to be seen by the newcomers. Even without words, he was already reprimanding them.

"You're late, very late. I have better things to be doing than waiting around here for you. If this is your professionalism then we may as well prepare her majesties funeral."

Though on a personal level, Lysander would have loved to smack the man back in his place--the Jedi were well within their scheduled time of arrival, and everyone knew it--he knew better than to place aggravation on the one currently in charge of their ‘orders’. Until he had met with the Queen Mother and been given his official directive from her, this man was all they had. Diplomacy demanded patience on his part, even when the other party did not return the favor.

“Our apologies,” he told the man, effectively dismissing the reprimand with his tone. Obviously they were in no dire hurry if the man was going to take the time to tell them off verbally.

The rather brusque gesture the man used to beckon them to follow was anything but cordial. Ignoring the slight, however, Lysander followed, able to keep pace with a rather simple gait. Jensen was right alongside him, and while Lysander could not read the other Knight as easily as he might have someone he knew well, Jensen projected enough disdain that Lysander smiled inwardly to himself. At least he and Knight Endlaust felt the same about their current circumstance.

And it was nice that the junior Knight had the sense to keep his irritation to himself. Emotions were permissible; behaving poorly on them was not.

"The Queen wishes to see you in private first, which will throw everything off schedule. [...] I assume you're both aware of your duties?"

It took several ounces of Lysander’s very strong self-control to keep himself from rolling his eyes at the man. He assumed this fellow was head of security, from the way he held himself and the way he talked. Well, little did this man know, he’d be temporarily relieved of his post very shortly here. The Jedi couldn’t do their job with this man attempting to run everything about them, and the Queen Mother was very likely to understand this. It was one of the first requests the Knight intended to make.

Assuming is bad for your health, sir, Lysander thought somewhat darkly to himself, though none of that made its way into his tone when he stated. “Of course.” They knew their directives. The specifics would have to come from the Queen Mother herself, but that was in good time. What she needed from them could easily change from one moment to the next.

"Her Majesty and the Prince are waiting inside to receive you."

Again, it took some of his definite self-control to not just chuckle at the look Knight Endlaust gave him at this point. Some people in this galaxy were harder get along with than others, but you couldn’t let that get to you. That was something Jensen clearly needed to still gain some control over. It was no matter now, though. Their time with head of security was currently over.

Jensen was the one to open the door, permitting Lysander to enter first. The Guardian was alright with this setup--he was accustomed to taking lead, mostly because he was generally working on his own these days. While he didn’t, per se, consider himself a leader in most formats, he could fall into the role when it was required of him. Now was one of those times, as he was in charge of this duo, if only unofficially. While they were ranked the same, experience did have to take some precedence.

The door closed behind them tightly, leaving them without audience as they met with the Queen Mother and the Prince himself. It was a sign within itself that they were so willing to meet with these two ‘bodyguards’ in private, without any other form of guardship. Clearly, the Queen Mother had put the acts of the Jedi against her people so long ago behind her. Lysander’s respect for her could only increase as he came to know her for what she was.

They were lucky, in all respects, to get a straight audience with her so quickly upon arrival, at that. The last time he’d been here, he’d waited literal hours to have meeting with her, and had only gotten straight answers from her upon the next day. But it was no surprise now--not after she had given the Jedi the great boon of allowing them refuge on Shedu Maad.

“Welcome,” she said upon the silence that met. She seemed a distant thing, in all her splendor. Too beautiful to touch and too strong to defy. She had been striking upon Lysander’s first meeting of her, but now she seemed even moreso, without any pretense of distaste or distrust towards the Jedi now. Her disappointment at not frustrating the Knight the last time around by toying with him did not seem to appear in any repetition.

They were on the same side, that much was officially obvious to him.

There was anxiety on the air, but it did not come from the woman. Instead, it came from the Prince, who was not nearly as well suited to this life as the other. Hopefully, in a matter of hours, the Jedi could put those anxieties to rest with some well placed confidences.

The Queen Mother moved to meet them, her grace one of breeding and disposition. The Jedi kept their ground just inside the door, having not been beckoned further in. She met them there, giving them a semblance of a bow as she did so. Lysander couldn’t help but watch her in silent wonder, stunned by the absolute amount of respect she gave them now. What he had expected from her had not been on this level of mutual anything, let alone respect. He took the honor with ever bit of modesty he ever had, returning the gesture with as much generosity as he could without slighting her graciousness.

“Jedi Knight Odakota, it pleases me to see you again,” she said, her voice soft yet compelling. Lysander found himself even breathing more quietly than normal in her presence. She turned her gaze to the younger. “And you must be Jedi Knight Endlaust. I do hope you can serve me as well as I know your counterpart shall.”

Lysander nodded in return to her words. “You do us greater justice than we deserve, Queen Mother,” he said, finding himself unable to raise his voice above the even temper she’d set. “We do only as we must.”

“My apologies for sending Vespasian to meet you. While he is the only one I could trust with your arrival, he does not think much of outsiders, like many among my people. As head of security, he has taken your presence here as a personal insult. It is my first request that you do not mind him, for his opinions on you are of no consequence to what will happen now.”

That explained a lot, as Lysander expected it would. He nodded to her, taking her request seriously. “Understood.”

She turned, beckoning them now further into the room. They took seats among the comfortable but austere furnishings as directed, the Jedi pair facing the royal family across a short distance. There was a moment of silence as they settled into this mode of speaking.

“You know much of what is needed of you from me, Jedi. The specifics will come as they must. But I must ask you first--what do you need of me?”

That took Lysander somewhat by surprise. Sure, he had plenty of requests, but to be asked outright...? It took him a full second to respond.

“Only your cooperation, ultimately. Though I do have a few requests, and perhaps more at later points.” It went without saying that he felt she could turn down anything he asked of her. “Firstly, we need full control over your security situation. Meaning we need your head of security to step aside for the time being. We can’t operate efficiently if he’s attempting to call shots over our heads.” He smiled somewhat ruefully at this fact, hoping the Queen Mother could appreciate this at least on that level.

“If we could avoid having even so much as an honor guard attend you for the time being, that would be ideal. Knight Endlaust and myself will always be nearby, even if you don’t necessarily see us. You will be far safer with only us as your immediate defense. Also, I don’t believe your enemies will strike unless they see an opening, and we cannot eliminate the threats if they do not present themselves in some capacity. Granted, it will be dangerous, but I do not intend to put you in any true danger.”

He had a feeling Vespasian wouldn’t like any of this.

“Thirdly, while we do intend to follow your orders and any of your own requests, we do require that we be under our own power of choice in the end. Should we require it, I would require that we be able to go against your exact decisions, for your safety. Though, I expect it not to come to this.” No, the Queen Mother was mature enough to make good decisions.

“Beyond this, we are at your beck and call from this moment on, Queen Mother. At least one of us will be within a heartbeat’s reach from here on out.”

((What does the Queen Mother think of these requests? Does the Prince put up any sort of fuss? What are their current orders, and where might they be headed?))

(( The Queen Mother agrees with the necessity to have her head of security step aside, given his obvious antagonism towards the two new 'bodyguards'. Obviously their attempting to work together with him would generate problems and arguments. She agrees Vespasian will absolutely detest taking a back seat on this one, but she has full faith that he will obey her in this regard.

However, the suggestion that the Jedi be the only protectors of the Queen Mother meets with more resistance. Specifically, the Prince is openly--if respectfully--reluctant to entrust the safety of his consort to two men alone, no matter how powerful. He states he's heard stories of the prowess of the Jedi as warriors, but he has a hard time believing a mere pair of them could fend off all the Queen's potential enemies. ))

It was pleasant surprise to see that Vespasian didn’t enter after them, declining Jensen’s offer with the stiff shake of the head. All the better for the pair of Jedi really, because the prospect of putting up with all his snide remarks was not appealing. Restraint wasn’t something the Isenian had in any large quantity either, so parting from the head of security was the best outcome for everyone involved. There was little to suggest the Jedi and the Hapan guard were going to have an easy working relationship. It was fairly obvious the man disliked the pair of undercover Jedi, for whatever reason, and his battling for authority over them would only endanger the Queen even more than currently. The assassins could literally be from anywhere; there were enough people with reasons to get rid of the Royal family.

In fact, the only people in the room as the door swung shut were four people; the pair of Jedi, the Prince and the Queen herself. Considering these were some of the few Hapans who knew the duo’s true, Jedi identity, Jens had expected some degree of hostility, but here they were showing trust. It had been rather surprising to hear that the Royal family were asking for assistance from the Order at all really, bearing in mind the troubled past the two factions had maintained. This was certainly signs of a step forward in the relationship between the two sides, a positive one that may very well end in reconciliation on a larger scale within the Hapan population and then perhaps another ally for the Jedi. The current political climate was not one where you wanted unnecessary enemies, and taking note of how long ago the bad events between the Hapans and the Order happened, they most certainly counted as unnecessary enemies.

Jensen was all too aware this fast-track for them into a meeting with the Queen was another good sign. Not being the natural diplomat many of his peers were, Jens wasn’t one to truly understand the subtle tactics employed by people to try and outwit or unnerve one another during the verbal duels. However, he’d been on enough now to know how things generally worked. Waiting was normally a given, and it was merely a question of how long they kept you ruffling your own feathers with inaction. It was thankful though, that the Queen believed the task at hand important enough, or perhaps the Jedi worthy enough of an immediate meeting face-to-face. Force knows what happened last time Jensen was wound up with diplomatic tactics. It was nice to see politicians -- which the Royals effectively were -- being straightforward instead of fluffing issues up pointlessly.

As with all Hapans the Queen looked magnificent as she welcomed the pair. Even without possessing any kind of intimidating figure, she managed to ooze power, making it obvious she was the one pulling the strings. A mixture of confidence in her capabilities and the self-assuredness that came through being in a place she was entirely comfortable made the Queen seem far more imposing than one would have thought seeing a picture of her. Yet the courtesy she showed was relieving, allowing Jensen to relax much more than had it not been expressed that she was pleased to see them. Instead of being a reluctant move to employ the help of her planets hated enemies, it appeared the Queen was pleased to have two Knights at her disposal and looking after her well-being. The Isenian found it nice being wanted for once, instead of batting off at every possible chance. Plenty of people were anxious around the Jedi, but the Queen unquestionably wasn’t.

The young Guardian followed his senior’s suit, despite knowing exactly what was needed, and returned the Queen’s bow. An audience with a Royal was a rather delicate affair, and Jensen knew he was something of a hammer. He wasn’t nervous per se, because the Isenian was always confident in his ability to get through any situation that was thrown at him, some way or another. But this was certainly not something within his comfort zone. If something went wrong, he’d much rather not be the reason for it. Upsetting the Queen could have serious consequences for the entire Order, and getting kicked off Shedu Maad would not be something that Jensen could deal with easily. A certain amount of caution was needed, which meant following Lysander would probably show him the correct path to take with things. After all, the Knight had been in many more of these situations, and had even dealt with the Hapans before.

”[ . . . ] I do hope you can serve me as well as I know your counterpart shall.”

Despite being addressed the Isenian kept quiet, merely giving the Queen an acknowledging look to inform her he’d been listening as Lysander replied. Like every mission Jensen was going to put his all into it, act with the best intentions and utilise not only his Jedi training but the instincts nature had given him. They usually served him well, very well. In fact, there were plenty of times in past when he’d have died had he been a bit more strict and thought things through for a moment. A lot of people didn’t agree with it, but you couldn’t argue against good results. Granted, often they could be better, but most of the time they did the job, and that was what was important surely. Fewer chances would be taken this time, of course. Not only were the eyes of the Queen on him, and those of Lysander, but the entire Hapan population would turn attention to the pair of Jedi should anything go wrong. That was the last thing they wanted, since with a bit of digging their Jedi upbringing would surface, and with that fresh hatred. This was certainly a turning point, which made it all the more important for the Queen to be kept safe, not only for the mission but for the future. Building bridges started here, with Lysander and Jensen hammering in the first nail.

”[ . . . ]But I must ask you first--what do you need of me?”

This was certainly surprising. Instead of throwing demands and orders at the Jedi, the Queen was asking them for requests. It wasn’t preferable that the Queen was keeping things to herself, but that was a given really. There were few people who liked to throw everything out there, and certainly few high ranking officials, especially to outsiders. If too many secrets were outed then security issues would arise, and although the Jedi weren’t an organisation to use them against the Hapans, Jensen could see appreciate the unwillingness to reveal everything without fierce reasons.

There was nothing the Isenian could think of though, not that he would have suggested it so quickly. It could well be that this offer was entirely for politenesses sake, which would make it an error to jump forward with too many requests. Instead, like usual, Jensen allowed Lysander to answer and simply took a backseat for the proceedings. Hopefully their last encounter would have allowed the senior Knight the chance to gauge the Queen, and through doing so get some indication as to how far the requests could go. From the sound of things, Lys thought he could get away with a lot, which could really go either way. The Queen might grant the requests asked of her, or deny them outright, as well as a few others just out of spite. But so far she'd shown herself to be reasonable and logical, which was a relief since prominence often bred a terrible aloofness. That was something no leader needed.

"[ . . . ] Granted, it will be dangerous, but I do not intend to put you in any true danger.”

A lot of pressure would be put on the Jedi with Lysander's plan, but if there was anyone in the Order who could appreciate the need for a little risk to gain the results, then it was Jensen. It was true, no professional assassin was going to break cover without a good chance their attack would be successful. Escape might not play into their plans, but if that was the case then gaining a strike on the Queen or Prince was even more important. Radicals were hard to deal with, they weren't just idiots brainwashed by their beliefs and running forward with blinkers. Even if they weren't willing to listen to reason, they were fully capable of putting together, and executing a devious plot. The only difference between them and the average professional assassin was that the former had more determination and less regard for their life. It made things much more complicated, and would more than likely result in death. Jensen wasn't going to risk an escape by the assassin, since that would only increase the danger presented to the Queen. Sometimes killing was the best option, even if plenty of Jedi were prone to believe the opposite.

While the Queen allowed the first, it was the Prince who spoke up in reply to the second. He physically stepped forward, if only to make his presence known, as it had obviously been on the Queen, and respectfully interrupting the flow of requests. "I'm sorry, but I have to firmly disagree. I cannot simply entrust her Majesty into the safety of two men alone, without making my displeasure known. I've heard stories of the prowess of the Jedi, but I find it hard to put confidence in two men when facing the Queen's potential enemies."

This time though, Jensen was quick to intervene. It wasn't because he took any offense, certainly not. He could fully understand the Prince's anxiety with the situation and the plan Lysander wished to implement. Hell, it had made Jens a bit shaky when the senior Jedi came out with it. Risky it certainly was, but that didn't mean it wasn't a good plan. Far too many times Jensen had taken the risks, and so long as they were calculated they often paid off reasonably well.

"If I may," Jensen stated, rather politely considering the usual tone that his voice took on. It was never nasty, but there was always a hint of the impatience he felt when nothing was going on. He liked to be in the thick of things, and hanging around with nothing to occupy him often wound him up more than any problem solving could. "We have several advantages over the assassin, with our Force abilities, which gives us much better perception for our surroundings. But we also have the element of surprise; he'll have no time to prepare, and thus we can press our advantage to the fullest. Keeping a full guard around Her Majesty would only prolong the endangerment, and make it much more difficult to force the assassin to surface."

The Isenian kept a steady gaze on the Prince, hoping to convey the confidence Jens had in the plan and the reasons behind it. Half the battle with persuading people was making them believe that you were far more assured than you truly were. There were plenty of dangers, many of which worried the young Guardian and kept his mind occupied, but none of this would be shown on his face. It was an expression of utter calm, reassurance as if this was something he did regularly. Just as the Queen had seemed comfortable in her surroundings, so did Jensen. He could well have been announcing this from the training rooms on Ossus, or the out-of-the-way one he'd established on Shedu Maad. They had to get everyone on their side, and although the final decision obviously rested with the Queen, the Prince was a heavy influence on her, no doubt, and thus getting his support in their plan would be just as vital.

Then again, Jens was entirely convinced that everything would end all right. It was a mindset he always put himself into when going on a mission, because thinking that things were going to go wrong just made that scenario more likely. Positive thinking won the day, always. Well, most of the time. It was definitely going to be a bumpy road -- Jensen hadn't seen a smooth one, and seriously doubted smooth roads to a goal even existed -- but it was one that Lysander and Jensen would transverse and finish victorious in the end. Hopefully with the Queen Mother too, and the Prince, they would be a plus. Failing never went down with the Isenian, as he'd realised all too much on Korriban, but this was a fresh mission, a fresh start and one that he would make the most of. Every opportunity needed to be grasped with both hands, and every situation should be done with the entirety of the heart. If you didn't put everything you had into an action, what was the point?

"[ . . . ] Though, I expect it not to come to this.”

Either Lysander hadn't read up on Jensen, or he had a significant amount of belief that the Isenian had the ability to act accordingly. There hadn't been any terrible incidents in the young Guardian's past, and his missions were all carried through to the end with good results, but of course the path he took there was somewhat off the beaten track. His decision making was certainly good though, at least in Jensen's mind. Thinking on his feet was what he did best, not following strict rules and guidelines. It was pleasing to see Lysander trusting him, if that was indeed what the senior Knight was doing. The Isenian always found it easier working with people who were willing to give him a little slack, instead of pulling tightly on his leash. Mikkt had seemingly seen this, and had been one of the first to utilise it.

The Nazzar had been something of a second master for the young Knight, and it was with some sadness that he'd taken on a Padawan. It meant less missions with him, which in turn meant praying to the Force that whomever he was partnered with was of a similar mold. Garth had been similar, very similar. It had actually been slightly disturbing how willing the diminutive Drall was to go along with Jensen's plans, but everything had turned out okay. It had been quite the marathon of events, but they'd gotten there eventually. Now came Lysander, but it was too earlier to really pin him down. Certainly, he didn't appear too Button-esque at the moment, but they'd only just begun. His reputation was good, with the only wobbles being those many masters were susceptible to. Otherwise it was pristine, not a great sign, but one that showed that at least Jensen was working with someone good. Only time would ultimately tell though, and something told the Isenian that they had plenty of that.

Prince Brodir turned out to be the reluctant soul in the room, as Lysander had supposed he would be. His anxiety would not allow for anything less from him. It wouldn’t have been too much of a problem, but the fact of the matter was, her consort held a lot of sway with the Queen Mother, and if anyone would turn her against a decision made by the Jedi outside her own mind, it would be him.

It would have been a mistake to dismiss the Prince’s concerns, but that didn’t stop Lysander from wishing he could. Diplomacy was that much harder when you were attempting to please two separate individuals instead of a single entity. While ultimately the Queen Mother was all that mattered, there were too many potential paths that the Jedi would have to keep wary of.

Sure enough, Brodir spoke up quite readily in response to the second request.

"I'm sorry, but I have to firmly disagree. [...] in two men when facing the Queen's potential enemies."

While in many ways, the Prince had a good point, he was also missing the key details that would make this a more feasible request. It was not quite so much a request for the Queen’s immediate safety as a request for the opportunity to make her more permanently safe. Of course, Jensen was quick to jump on the draw on this one. Giving the younger Knight an amused glance, he let the junior companion have his word.

"[...]Keeping a full guard around Her Majesty would only prolong the endangerment, and make it much more difficult to force the assassin to surface."

Pleased that at least Jensen seemed to understand where he was coming from on this matter, Lysander nodded his agreement to the other’s statement, letting it be known that these were his thoughts as well.

And yet, there was something more. He’d thought he’d not have to voice this point, but with Brodir coming out so strongly against the idea, he opted to make it known. With luck, it would also teach Jensen a thing or two about how to maintain the results of a mission without having to actually be there on hand in the future.

“Additionally, Prince Brodir, your Majesty,” he nodded to the Prince and the Queen Mother in turn, “If your enemies see you are safe even when there is not a visible barrier between them and you at all times, in the future they will be even more reluctant to take aggressive action towards either of you. If they can’t be sure of an opening, they are going to be far less likely to take it. Creating an illusion of security only heightens the security that actually exists.”

Teach your enemies a lesson that applied now but wouldn’t necessarily later, and they were still likely to behave on that lesson down the road. Simple psychology. Unless your enemies were stupid enough to not learn from mistakes, in which case they would be easy enough to eliminate without too much cleverness on one's own part.

“Of course, ultimately, it is your call. It was a mere request, made from experience.”

Other than that, things seemed to be going well enough for the Jedi. Now it was only a matter of making good on their assurances and actually protecting the Queen Mother and her consort.

“Is there anything we should be made aware of, any requests of your own, my Lady? We are prepared to move into active duty now, if you would have it.”


((Are they ultimately able to convince the pair of this idea? Does the Queen Mother have any requests or further instruct? What is their first task?))

((The prince is not convinced and begins to voice his concerns. The queen raises her hand curtly, cutting off her son and giving him a stern look. She agrees to the Jedi's request. The prince clenches his jaw tightly in response.

After a brief pause, the queen says that she has some matters of state to attend to. After another pause, she asks the Jedi to join them in what would be an excruciatingly boring and tiresome ordeal, that if everything goes well, should only last 6 hours.))

It was slightly sickening how smug Jensen felt when Lysander gave him an acknowledging look of praise, but for a moment it was impossible not to feel like he'd begun to crack this negotiation stuff. There was really nothing to it; you just said things in an entirely more elaborate way than you would have, while hoping that the people you're negotiating with are able to see your logic. Or perhaps it was their targets that made this so much easier. Unlike many others the Queen was receptive to their plans, and while not immediately agreeing to them was more than willing to hear the Jedi out and think over the strategy. When discussing things with intelligent, rational people everything seemed much simpler and straightforward. If only more diplomats were like that though . . .

Lysander continued though, adding onto what the young Knight had already said with a few wise words of his own.

"[ . . . ] Creating an illusion of security only heightens the security that actually exists.”

A very cunning idea that would bring results in the future, so long as the pair were successful in their current mission. It was true that, should the two Jedi manage to apprehend the assassin, there would be much more hesitation in the minds of future ones. Despite seeing a target, fully open and clear for attack, they'd forever have the thought of those Jedi lurking in the shadows waiting to strike. Thinking ahead had never been a trait Jens had managed with much success -- which probably explained why the young Guardian got into so much trouble -- but even he could appreciate the worth in this particular idea. With little more effort they could gain even greater results than first imagined; what was there not to like?

“Of course, ultimately, it is your call. It was a mere request, made from experience.”

Turning from Lysander the Isenian's attention drifted to the Queen and her Prince Consort. This was ultimately it; the moment where they would either be shot down or their plans embraced by the ruling power of Hapes. If they were turned down, Jens had no idea what they would do. A prolonged engagement in the mission as a great number of guards trailed the Queen from every function she went to was unappealing, not just in the sense that Jensen would be forced to hang around even longer than first anticipated, but also because catching the assassin would be so much more difficult. It was in the best interests of the Queen to find out who was after her, and for what reasons. For all they knew it could be more than one; a group of dissenters that needed to be addressed before they could gain a bigger foothold within Hapan society. So much could be garnered by simply capturing this assassin and handing him over for questioning.

Once more the Prince Consort opened his mouth, and before a word had passed his lips the Isenian could tell it was disagreement coming forth. The expression was all over his face as his brow creased in discomfort, his small eyes pinning the two Jedi to the spot as more fervour entered his mind in opposition to the proposal. "I really don't think-. . ."

In a subtle hand movement, hardly noticeable to Jensen for several seconds, the Queen silenced her Consort. Having caught it out of the corner of his eye the Prince turned to his Queen, waiting patiently for her to respond. It was the epitome of discipline to hold his tongue, even when he knew that what was coming would be so against what he believed. Had it been the Council and Jensen in their respective roles it would have been much harder not to say something in defense of his ideas, but the Prince took it with relative calm. His jaw clenched tightly, giving away his irritation, but other than that he bowed curtly to the Queen and retook his place at her side, his hands folded neatly behind his back in a military fashion. The Queen shot him a stern look, obviously not impressed even by this small show of aggravation in front of others, especially off-worlders. No doubt there would be words later behind closed doors, and a reassertion of power.

"I accept your request, Jedi. I will have the guard reduced, as you wish."

Things were going much better than Jensen had first expected. In fact, they probably couldn't have gone much better. Everything Lysander had asked for had been permitted by the Queen herself, which meant there would be no disruptions on the Hapans part, not if they didn't want serious consequences to arise after the whole ordeal was over. The Jedi were effectively in charge of the Queen Mother's safety now, with the Royal Guard under their authority and without Vespasian around to try and block everything they ordered. It would certainly make the entire operation much easier, and run much smoother. Instead of several parts of the Queen's security working on the same level, with only the Queen herself higher than them all there would be much less clashing of heads. What the Jedi said would go, unless directly challenged by the Queen herself, but she appeared to have plenty of faith in the pair. Now it was a question of whether they could set up an effective perimeter, one that the assassin would be unable to recognise, while also ensuring the complete protection of the Queen and the Prince. It would certainly not be easy, but then little was. They wouldn't let either die though, that much was for certain. This was as much a mission to improve the status of the Jedi on Hapas as it was to protect the Queen; without her there would be no relations whatsoever. She was more important than anyone could really have believed possible, but such was the workings of the galaxy.

“Is there anything we should be made aware of, any requests of your own, my Lady? We are prepared to move into active duty now, if you would have it.”

A silence fell upon the room for a moment, the Queen obviously running through things that she needed to do. No doubt there was usually an aide around to tell her all this, and simply guide her through the day from event to event, giving all the relevant information as they arrived rather than bogging her down with it all at once. The Prince stood silently behind, unwilling to engage in the conversation again after the unspoken telling off he'd just received, which meant a rather uncomfortable halt in the conversation. Everyone wait on the Queen, who, after a pause, replied to the question.

"I have some matters of state to attend to now," she replied shortly, pausing once more but keeping her eyes on the pair of new guards before her. "Would you care to join us for it? It should only last a few hours."

Jensen found it hard not to simply bolt from the room. Being invited to see the workings of the state might seem interesting to some, but there was nothing about the thing that made Jens wish to take part. They would be relegated to standing around listening to old men and women talk, argue and negotiate with one another over this issue and that, with little respite to recover. As much as Jensen had been trying to be the model Jedi there came times when such a thing was impossible for him. This was one such thing, and the Isenian was not likely to survive a few hours in a meeting. Force, he could barely stand the classes as a youngling that didn't involve lightsabers or the Force. His attention span was just not long enough to get him through stuff like this, and as such an escape was required.

Puffing out his chest he filled his lungs with air, not only because he planned on speaking, but also because such a thing would gain the attention of the others and alert them to such. With a glance at Lysander, Jensen returned his attention to the Queen mid-speech as he did his best to address everyone in the room. "It might be best if at least one of us checks out the other functions her Majesty is going to today, to best organise her security once she arrives." Although there was a pause, his attention shifting, Jensen wasn't about to allow anyone to jump in and steal this little doorway to freedom. They would have to fight him tooth and nail before he gave up and entered a boardroom. "I'll meet with one of the aides and get a timetable before visiting each."

Or he could go fist-fight a rancor, whichever would get him out of the meeting.

It was some hours later that Jensen had been approached by one of the servants of the Queen informing him that Lysander had been called off-world on some business. The Isenian had no idea what it could possibly be that was more important than protecting the Hapan Queen, but the Council worked in mysterious ways, and he wasn't really supposed to question them. That said, it was appealing to try and get through to someone to know where his partner was being shipped off to. Jens would probably prefer that to sticking around here and feeling an intense feeling of foreboding. Neither did Jensen know when the Knight would be returning -- if he was returning at all. But what plagued the young Guardian's mind the most was the fact the mission, and the life of the Queen, was entirely in his hands. It was quite hard to get used to that, if he was honest. The information came as a bit of a shock. Had he been afforded the time earlier to get used to the idea perhaps he'd not have stood there looking at the aide with a blank, discomforted expression; but such were things. So much for wandering around getting acquainted with his surroundings; bigger things were afoot.

With the Jedi numbers short it was likely something Jens would have to get used to, and besides; he had always wanted more responsibility. Well, here it was. Responsibility had been dropped right in his lap like a bantha, crushing his legs and winding him. Challenges came and had to be dealt with, this wasn't any different, right? He just had to think of it as an experience that would allow him to take another step up. Of course, the Isenian had been on plenty of missions in which he was the leader or sole Jedi, but this was slightly different; it was slightly more intense since the result could very well reverberate all the way back to the Redoubt on Shedu Maad. Jensen wouldn't let them down though, as soon as he sank into the idea of protecting royalty.

Immediately he'd made his way to the Queen's conference rooms, sure that this was the more pressing matter and the one that Lysander had vacated. His mind was a whirl, a confusion of thoughts, plans and ideas. It was panic, and although he kept a reasonably calm expression as he wandered through the halls there was no denying that the scale of the task was daunting. Protecting life was no easy matter, but protecting the Hapan Queen's was probably triple that, and then add on the political pressure and you had yourself a boiling pot happening inside the Isenian's head. There was a plan though, set out by Lysander before he'd left, and for now Jens would stick with that. The details . . . Well, they would have to be filled in as best as he could. For now he'd stick nearby the Queen, reduce the guards and hope that he would be enough to hold off the inevitable attack by the assassins. It was what Lys had said, so it had to be good, and besides the Guardian had no other ideas that struck him as any better. Best to trust in experience, then hope youth and enthusiasm were enough to carry it through.

Stopping outside ornate doors the servant gave a quiet tap, which was quickly met with a face peering through a crack just big enough to fit his head through. They spoke in hurried, harsh sounding whispers and then, with a once over, the doorman let Jensen through. He was greeted by a fantastic looking table, even as bare as it currently was, with large, comfortable looking chairs, decorated to perfection with expensive patterns and gold inlay. It was, well, fit for a Queen, and there she sat at the head of the table opposite the doorway Jens had just emerged through. She was joined by several other rather elegant looking individuals, though the majority of the table was empty. The likelihood was these were just the important head of states; minister of defence, home office, those kinds of things. He had no idea what they were discussing, and in truth didn't care too much; it was Hapan business and he was proud -- and fortunate -- to say he was Isenian. It wasn't like he didn't have enough on his plate as it was.

Entering he gave a polite bow to the head, uncomfortable with his ignorance of procedure. Was he supposed to be shadowing her, seen but not heard? Or was he to step forward and impose his presence on situations and the people the Queen encountered. Without anyone to copy, Jens reverted to reserved movements that occupied the middle ground; it would allow him to switch either way depending on the reaction he read on other people's faces. As much as he was ready to announce his arrival, and even introduce himself to the other occupants of the table, Jens was prepared to slip around the room and take his station near the Queen and the Prince Consort where two other ceremonial guards stood.

(( What's the Queen's reaction? Does she announce him or expect him to quietly slip in? Does she make any indication as to what she wants him to do? What is the Hapan government discussing? ))

(( The Queen immediately notices Jensen enter the room, but does not acknowledge him beyond brief eye contact and a small nod in his direction. Other than that, she gives him no instruction, trusting that the Jedi Knight knows what he's doing. She goes back to discussing politics with her small cabinet, but the heads have noticed Jensen too. They change the subject, inquiring as to what she's doing in her own defense against these would-be assassins and their radical group. Her answer is simple: she is not going to be coerced into an act against her own conscience.

The talk goes on for more than an hour, though Jensen gets the feeling that they're no longer discussing what they've come to because of his foreign presence. ))

The Queen's head rose in recognition of the Jedi having just entered, but made no further sign as to what he was supposed to do. She didn't seem inclined to speak with him at present, which left him little other choice than to quietly sweep into the room and stick close to the wall. So long as she was in his sight and within reach then his job would be able to be done. He was supposed to protect her, after all, and sometimes that would mean the tedious duty of standing silently at her side ready to react to anything that would change the pace of their present proceedings. It certainly wasn't exciting, but every mission had its low points, and hopefully this would be the lowest the Isenian would experience. It wasn't easy trying to keep an impassive expression, especially when inside his head he was shrivelling up from the boredom of it all as the representatives spoke about things Jensen couldn't care about even if he tried. Their voices droned, their tones sending him into a trance as the Force mingled around in search of something, anything that would aid the Guardian in his service to the Queen. Like ever the Prince Consort sat idly by, having nothing to do and little sway anyway. It must have been even worse for him, someone who could throw in a word but was never required to be listened to. Quite pathetic really. It made the Isenian almost pity his position.

One councilman leaned forward, the proximity to the Queen catching Jensen's attention as he prepared to step in. Eyes homed in on the man's hands, ready to lurch forward and grab them -- or break them -- should he make any offensive movement against her Majesty. In the Isenian's eyes, everyone was a suspect and no one could truly be trusted. It all brought him back to reality though, which was probably for the best. "If I may inquire, your Majesty; what steps have you taken to ensure your safety?"

His eyes drifted to the man standing behind his Queen, obviously assuming that this was the measure she'd taken for her protection. It must have seemed like very little in the eyes of people who didn't know Jensen's true identity. One man, that was what they saw. An off-worlder who had no loyalty to anyone and whose skill was unknown. He could forgive people to be skeptical, but once they knew they'd understand that it wasn't such a minor step to take. Bringing in the Jedi to help was revolutionary in many ways. The Hapans were so isolated through their own doing, and to bring an Isenian Jedi was quite a step to make. Someone who had never stepped foot on the planet before now. No only was he from another planet, but he was a Jedi, both things dictating that he should never even set eyes on the beautiful world of Hapes. Yet, here he was, standing behind the Hapan Queen no less for her protection and the continuation of her policies which would, in time, benefit the Order greatly and everyone else. Opening up to the galaxy, if only a little, could provide the planet with such wealth and prosperity that would surpass what they had even now. It would bring with it enlightenment, knowledge and understanding. This was a big step, but there were many more to come.

"I will not be coerced into an act against my own conscience."

The exchange probably meant more than Jens even pinned to it. He was incredibly weary from the discussions, and with nothing to occupy him mind every little niggle and ache in his legs from standing quietly behind was becoming more noticeable by the second. Thoughts wandered to Vespasian, wondering whether he'd actually be a problem later. Without Lysander around Jens would need eyes in the back of his head to keep tabs on everyone, but if there was one person that he'd be watching closely it would be Vespasian. The guy was a douche, no doubt, but he was also in a position to make things difficult. Although he'd been dismissed for the time being there was something that told the Isenian that it wouldn't be the last time the Head Guard would cross paths with him. Being so young it was probably even more integral to assert himself on others, because like many others they likely saw Jensen as an adolescent with more luck than sense.

Soon enough though the discussions were over. Jens barely listened but they seemed to have turned to less important topics once he'd taken his station. It didn't matter, those subjects would get addressed once the Queen was safe from the assassins that prowled the shadows. Once everything was calm again Hapes could go back to the way it always had been; alone in the galaxy and interested in nothing but itself. Equally Jensen could go back to trying his best to get things done regardless of the level. The equilibrium would be restored once again, but hopefully this time progress would be saved in the embodiment of the Queen's mind. It was the only thing that could change things really, and that was what made her so much more important than usual. Everyone stood, giving their respects before leaving the room and Jensen alone with the Queen and the Prince Consort once more. He looked to the former, stepping forward in a manner that asked for direction. He needed to know what her next step was to begin to decide what his would be in reply.

(( Does the Queen give him any orders? What's she doing next? ))

(( The Queen informs Jensen that the meeting has fatigued her and that she will be retiring early. Once more, it seems he's left to his own idlings. His options then are exploring the grounds or coordinating with the rest of her security while she gets her beauty rest. Meanwhile, the Prince Consort excuses himself, claiming he has some other business to take care of. ))