Neil jolted awake. "It wasn't me!" 

Blinking lazily, he realized he was in his extravagant bedroom. The pilot rubbed his face and blearily wondered if this room would be a temporary affair, or if his commendation in a few days would grant him a lifetime suite and a vassalage. That would have sounded extremely appealing until recently. Hell, it still was appealing. But his mood had somewhat soured since they'd arrived. Then again, he didn't feel as bad he did yesterday. Other than the slight hangover. 

"They make it strong on this planet." He groaned as he swung his feet off the bed, scratching an itch under his eye. First thing was first, he went to take a quick shower. As the hot water hit him, he felt all the physical and mental muck drain out of him, and he let out a large 'whoo!' before he stepped out, drying himself and his thick head of dark hair. 

He slipped on some comfortable street clothing and headed into the great hall only to step into the middle of Ranald and Junebug watching the clip of the slain royal Neil had discovered. 

If that video had come in during his absence, it couldn't have been the Prince. He wouldn't have known who to go after. Neil nodded. It had top be someone they hadn't the pleasure of meeting yet. He was certain they would soon. 

"I'm flattered you decided to divulge this footage, but why to me?" Junebug asked. 

"Because he's quite fond of you, and I feel if you spend more...time with him, you could be in danger as well as he. Not that it would stop you. I know a soldier when I see one. But you and your crew saved his and my life. I feel I am paying a debt." He informed her, giving a respectable pose as regal as any King could. 

"We appreciate the thought." Neil said, causing both of them to look his way. They'd see Neil leaning casually against a pillar, not a few meters away and behind them. The rogue was scratching his chin, a small 5 o'clock shadow having formed since they'd gone off schedule. He hadn't shaved the past few days. "Have any leads yet?" 

Ranald shook his head. "Not yet. Granted, the heirs to the throne are given shares of estates according to their age, so it could just be a sibling rivalry. But the planet is famous for its power struggles. Thank the Gods Aiden will be king. He's the only one of them with a decent head on his shoulders." the elderly councilman declared. "Insurgents or a senator is the next guess. We have problems with both." 

"Where is the Prince? Aiden?" Neil asked. 

"He said he is not to be disturbed. But for you...I am certain he would make an exception. He's in his quarters." 

"Thank you for the warning, and your time." 

Ranald made his way out shortly after, giving them a bow. Neil waved him goodbye, then shut the veritable gate behind him. He let out a sigh. "So, what do you think?" Neil asked, before giving his opinion. He felt like he should give a talk to the prince at some point, but he'd follow his Captain's leave.   
[@Penny]