Something Borrowed, Something Blue [Talau]

[Meira]

There were dinners, there were parties, there were events....

And then there were weddings.

The Corellian people enjoyed a good party, for a wedding, enjoyment would be an understatement. With that mentality, it would be easy to understand the lavishness of a Royal wedding. The palace, the gardens, every inch of the grounds, it was all transformed. More flowers than could be counted in a life time were brought in. Most from Corellia, but some were exotics brought in from around the galaxy.

Food had been in preparation for days. And army of chefs and cooks had toiled in multiple kitchens to prepare the food. And the results were amazing. It was almost a shame that it was all meant to be consumed.

Even more lavishly decorated were the guests. Men wore their finests suits, decked out with any symbol of recognition possible. Rook wouldn't have been surprised to see someone carrying around a trophy from a long ago spelling bee. They were important, these trappings. They were reasons to boast. And what did he have to boast about?

Well, nothing really. But being a price was good enough for him. Even the most esteemed of generals and admirals had to pay their respects to him. Did he care that their respects were given half-heartedly, or even with a certain mark of distain? Not in the least. Rook was seventeen, and really only had one thing on his mind.

The ceremony had been long and drawn out, and Rook had to stand for the whole thing. But his perch at the front of the congregation, standing with his brothers as part of the wedding party, gave him a good view of all the guests. By the time the ceremony was over, he had a good list of faces he was looking forward to attaching names to.

Luckily, the reception was far more relaxed and festive than the nuptuals. With music, food, and drink flowing freely, even the most uptight of Corellian high society were letting their hair down and having a good time. Whats more, Rook was having a good time.

There was no need to hide the intentions of the families that paraded their daughters in front of Rook and the second eldest Solosten brother. What better time to introduce the Princes to such lovely young women? It might have been shameless, but it was the way of things. Who knows? Love could spark at any time, and some noble family might suddenly be able to add relation to royalty to their list of bragging rights.

A great few of the young women were less than fair, and Rook enjoyed their shy dispositions and blushing cheeks. Being third in line left him with a healthy appetite for attention, and even if he was only talking to the girls his brother passed over, there were still quite a few good looking ones in the bunch.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

((omg, i just got two brilliant ideas.......heh, Songbird strikes again! Good thing there are no jedi around ^_^

Clothing Ref Jade: thedigicult.files.wordpress.com/2008/11/tb18.jpg --the belt has a sheathed sword on it, not a mace. Same colors of white and blues--

Clothing Ref Aunna: kodai-sasuke.deviantart.com/art/Simple-Beauty-Polka-97704506 --also in white and blues, her hair would be held back by two braids starting at her temples and wrapping around to the back of her head, the rest would be straight down with natural waves. at this point in time it would be to her waist, not her hips.

01tsukasa0hack10.deviantart.com/art/Final-Fantasy-8-Griever-chain-5060653 --the pendant he should be noticing later during the crash, held on a long, thick, silver chain, as well as a charm of silver angel wings.--

For Aunna's voice ref, look up Within Temptation on youtube --the actual music vid's like 'Angels' are best --))



Aunna and Jade, much to their dismay, had been dragged to the wedding. Even though the twins were glad for the day off from their posts in the Corellian fleet, neither one liked the social gatherings such as these. Jade disliked the throngs of women who every once in a while would flock his way after the princes would dismiss them...they were all shallow, vapid, creatures just begging for some kind of attention and chittering away like birds about nothing. Aunna, however, didn't so much dislike the attention (though that too was the case)...but worse, she HATED being paraded around like some purebred dog about to be sold off.

Recently, word of the young Borgonia woman's voice had gotten out...much to her chagrin...and so not only was she being flaunted about, but now she had been pressured into singing. Aunna had to be one of the LEAST happy people there, but it had been a request of the royal family's and it was a wedding...there was little she could, or WOULD, do. Her next problem, as she was distractedly flaunted to a group of nobles by her parents, was WHAT would she sing?! It wasn't as if she could simply pull anything out of her mind and sing it wonderfully! No, her gift was peculiar that way...not only that, but she had to find a song that would fit the times! This was a wedding, and some of the songs she could sing had to do with death...this was going to be quite a predicament.

She idly watched Jade try to avoid the flock of women who were currently chasing him about the grounds after being denied by the royals. Good grief! She just wasn't feeling this! Even rifling through all the various songs she could connect to right now, she just couldn't find anything DECENT. At least not decent for the time being. She felt herself being moved along again as her father walked on, and seeing as her arm was hooked in his she didn't have much of a choice. Vaguely she heard herself being introduced to a man named Rook...wait, no there had been a title...Prince?! Oh holy hell, she had to come back to reality now. Feeling slightly flustered at being caught off guard, her blue eyes widened a bit as she curtsied to him and his older brother.

I'm so sorry, I didn't intend to be rude, I was just thinking about...oh never mind that.

She smiled embarrassedly at the youngest prince, his brother seemingly not at all interested. That was fine with her....the less attention the better.

I'm Aunna Borgonia, a pleasure to meet you Prince Rook.

She stated simply. God she HATED formalities! Why couldn't royalty just be casual for once...why always your highness this, and your majesty that, and my liege this, and sire that...pha.

Forgive me if I'm less than formal, but...I'm afraid it's just not in my nature....no matter how hard my parents try to beat it into my mind.

Aunna added with a light chuckle. He wasn't half bad looking, honestly, and perhaps she wouldn't mind talking to him a bit, but there was a line waiting to greet the two men, and already her mother was urging her father to hurry things along. With a heavy sigh and an annoyed movement of her eyes, the young woman made it quite obvious to her parents that she was QUITE done being flounced around after this.

I'm sorry, but it looks like I'm going to be rushed along again to be flaunted before some other group of nobility before I....sing.

Aunna had only realized what she'd said after she'd said it, and had immediately covered her mouth with a hand. Oh great...her mouth had gotten away with her again. This was turning into a nightmare. Only after a moment of looking shocked did she say the final word, a blush rising in her cheeks. The song that had been playing had just ended and Aunna sighed.

I'm sorry...I have to go either way. It seems like it's time for me to sing already...

She sighed, looking displeased for a moment, and more than a little awkward at the thought of having to sing for all of these people, but she dutifully went toward the stage anyway.

((i'm gonna let you get a reply in before she sings))

[Meira]

As fun as it all was, after a while, it got boring. Especially when the girls' fathers got into the middle of it all. Many of the fathers knew better. Perhaps they had some sense of what they were effectively doing... and decided not to worsen the matter by sticking their own noses into the mess. Was it not enough that they were displaying their daughters like meat? These men were the sensible ones.

Others... well, others decided not only to display their prize daughters, but to take the opportunity to rub shoulders with nobility. These were the pathetic ones. Even Rook, young and uncaring as he was, could see it. One of these men was trying to talk his ear off, as if Rook, third in line, could further this man's station in life. Rook smiled and said as little as he could without being rude and then quickly bid farewell to the man and his poor daughter. She was pretty, but didn't get a chance to say anything, thanks to daddy.

Next up was Mr. Borgonia and his daughter, Aunna. As she was announced, she seemed distracted and greeted him almost as an afterthought. Well, that was refreshing. Rook chuckled as he gave a slight bow of his head as she curtsied. She continued to fumble over her words, making apologies and all the rest. He dismissed it with a wave of his hand. He was studying her with discerning eyes, trying to catch what was different about her. She didn't carry herself the same as other young noble women. There was nothing of the practiced walk, shoulders straight, head a little too high. She seemed to move with a natural grace, perhaps not entirely feminine, but definitely not masculine. What was it? There was confidence in her, in spite of her rattled speech.

Rook tilted his head to the side, still trying to unravel her mystery when she mentioned that she would sing. His eyebrows raised, almost in unison with hers. This solicited another slight chuckle from his smiling lips as she watched her own surprise wash across her face. She had not meant to say that. And then it was time to leave. She was about to move on, and Rook hadn't said a word. He had been so caught up by her he hadn't noticed until just then. Another thing he had just noticed was the pendant hanging from a long necklace that she wore. Now where had he seen that symbol before? She was being swept away, and for the first time that Rook could remember, he was scrambling for something to say.

I... look forward to it. Was all he could manage before she was out of ear shot. His eyebrows knitted slightly with frustration at himself. But the movement of the party wouldn't stop, and just then, another girl was brought before him. But Rook was distracted. When the song stopped, Rook looked toward the stage and could see Aunna's form moving towards it.

Rook dismissed himself from the line of noble families and moved through the crowd so that he could get a better view. He found a suitable place with a good view of the stage. Coincidentally, he was also standing next to a man who, if Rook had been paying attention to anything but the woman walking onto the stage, might have bore a resemblance to Aunna.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

((lyrics: She Moved through the Fair - Celtic song lyrics))

The young military woman had been surprised, to say the least, that she'd not been scolded by the young prince for her words. If anything, he'd seemed as surprised as she, and perhaps even a little amused? No, that was too much to hope for. Prince Rook had also seemed surprisingly silent and distracted, not even saying a word to her, and she wondered why. He'd not seemed so with everyone else, but perhaps she was just reading things into it. Aunna didn't have time to think on this, however, as she was rushed toward the stage. As she left she finally heard him speak. His words made her smile slightly despite herself, even as she lifted her dress slightly to walk lightly up the steps of the stage.

Jade stood, rather uneasily, near the front of the crowd beginning to form at the base of the stage. Most simply continued to mill about, some headed back to their tables, others off to find more food or drink...he didn't care, let them do as they pleased....Jade was simply here to be moral support for Aunna. Another young man arrived beside him to his left, and an older gentleman to his right. The latter proceeded to make a rather inappropriate remark, in his intoxicated state, along the lines of "she's a rather fetching young lady...I wonder if she's as good looking out of that dress as she is in it?" Boiling with anger, it was all the icy eyed brother could do to not hit the man outright. Instead he allowed himself a slight snarl of anger and, without turning his head, narrowed his eyes and gazed at the man from the corner of his eye.

Sir...you say something like that about my sister again and I'll be sure to remove your reason for being called a man. Consider this your warning.

The words were simple, and though they were said calmly and politely, they were colored with anger and dripping with venom. The older gentleman's nose flared slightly, but he said nothing else, removing himself from the younger man's presence.

By this time, Aunna had turned to the expectant orchestra, who swiftly appeared both relieved and slightly deflated by her words. Turning once again to the crowd, Aunna took a steadying breath. The bells of the church rang in the background, deep and calming, the birds in and around the grounds chirping brightly...none of these could be heard, however, above the din of the crowd. As she was offered a microphone, the young woman refused it with a shake of her head and a slight wave of her hand, and stood, waiting, watching the people in the crowd.

Slowly they began to silence themselves, seeing her there on stage and wondering why she hadn't said anything and there was no music. She held a commanding, but oddly calming, presence as she stood there, her mind already deeply submersed in that warm glow of feeling and light that only she seemed to ever notice around them and in them all. She didn't know that this was what the jedi called 'the force'. Only once the only sounds to be heard were the bells and the birds, Aunna began to sing. Her voice was gentle and soft, yet seemed to radiate out from her so that all could hear it, no matter how far they were. Accompanying this was a great feeling of calm, peace, and contentment.

My young love said to me, my mother won´t mind
And my father won´t slight you for your lack of kine,
And she stepped away from me and this she did say,
It will not be long love ´til our wedding day.

She stepped away from me and she moved through the fair,
And fondly I watched her move here and move there,
Then she went her way homeward with one star awake,
As the swan in the evening moves over the lake.

I dreamt it last night that my young love came in,
So softly she entered her feet made no din,
She came close beside me and this she did say,
It will not be long love ´til our wedding day.

As those last words rang out and through everyone, they seemed to float into the sky...to fade into nothing. The crowd had been surprisingly still, some taking shocked looks, others appearing more soothed by the song, but all had been nearly silent during it, only daring whispers when there was a short lapse in the words.

[Meira]

To say he was enchanted by her might have been an overstatement. But Rook was definitely intrigued. He was still unable to put his finger on why exactly she seemed so different. And the meaning behind the pendant she wore was still evading his memory. He stood, silently waiting for her to begin, his eyes not daring to stray from her form.

But a voice to his right broke his trance. The smell on the man made it obvious that he might have had a few two many of the free drinks. Rook was about to chastise the man with a few choice words of his own, but the young gentleman between them spoke first. Rook's eyebrows raised. A sibling? Upon a more focused inspection, Rook did indeed see the resemblance. And it seems the brother's words were enough to deter the drunk, who began to wobble away. Rook's eyes soon found contact with security, who were always close by and keeping a watchful eye. With a subtle nod, the men had recieved their instructions. The drunk man was quietly escorted away to where he couldn't cause any more trouble.

The crowd had fallen silent at some point, and Rook turned his eyes back towards the stage, where they settled on Aunna. A calm, satiated smile crossed his face. He felt so relaxed. And when she began to sing, the words floated in the air in such a soothing way, he almost closed his eyes. But he couldn't, not entirely. He enjoyed looking at her as she sang. And when the final notes faded, the whole crowd had been captivated. For a few moments, there was no sound.

It was then broken by two hands clapping together. As if rousing from a light slumber, the guests became aware of themselves again and joined in, until the whole reception had stood in applause. Rook was smiling again, his eyes laughing along as he clapped for her. He then turned to the man that was her brother.

She is very talented. He said, extending his hand in greeting. Rook Solosten. I couldn't help but overhear that you are her brother? He inquired to make sure he had not been mistaken.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Aunna took a shaky breath after her song, feeling the uncomfortable feeling of needing to walk around as her body trembled slightly. Bowing her thanks to the crowd, she turned to leave the stage only to find herself face to face with the conductor of the orchestra. What NOW she wondered as he began to talk.

Jade, had watched silently as she sang. He didn't like it when she did this...it took a lot from her, not to mention it could jeopardize her chances in the military should any jedi find her talents out....no doubt the military would leap at the chance to have a force sensitive working for them with the sith behind the scenes. As her song ended, he nodded to her and smiled as he heard the crowd clapping. It was then that the man on his left spoke. Jade turned ice blue eyes to him and blinked, wondering if he would have to tell yet another idiot off. Upon seeing his garb, and the name that was offered with the hand, Jade chuckled slightly and shook it. Well, one of the princes, hmm? Aunna did attract the oddest of men.

Jade Borgonia, at your service Prince Rook. Yes, she is quite talented, and yes she is my sister.

He replied simply with a nod of his head in respect. After shaking Rook's hand, Jade looked back up to the stage and noticed that the conductor was trying to get Aunna to sing another song. Huffing, he looked back to Rook with a studious eye, as if trying to decide if he should say something or not.

Prince Rook, would you care to talk to her? She seems to be in need of rescuing from the orchestra conductor...and honestly...I'd prefer she not sing again for a little while...it tends to have....adverse...effects on her.

He paused for a moment looking back to his sister and the man speaking to her. She looked about ready to lose her cool with the man, though this was gleaned only by the subtle way she stood and the slight raise of her chin.

I think she could do with a Prince riding to the rescue, and besides, that stubborn old man most likely would argue with me and I don't feel like starting a fuss on such a pleasant day.

[Meira]

A pleasure. Rook said as the two shook hands. He was about to inquire more about the two of them, but Jade seemed distracted. Rook followed the other's line of sight until he spotted the problem. When Jade spoke again, Rook did not turn back at first. A smile was crossing his face at the request. Finally, his slate colored eyes returned to meet Jade's.

I think that is something I can handle. He said with a nod and a wink before turning away. Placing one hand on the stage, Rook hopped up and looked out over the crowd. Stepping over to where the microphone had been set onto a stand, Rook tapped it to make sure it was on. His sudden appearance on the stage, as well as the tapping, had brought the crowd's attention back to the front. As they fell quiet again, Rook smiled and looked over to Aunna.

I should like to ask this lovely young lady to dance. He announced, causing the conductor to stop mid sentence and look over at him. Rook needed only to give the man a look, and he stepped back to the orchestra to prepare the next song, albeit hesitantly. Looking back to Aunna, Rook smiled with a charm that would come to be known as his trademark in the coming years. A small pattering of applause had signaled the audience's support. Rook stepped back from the microphone and towards Aunna, his hand outstretched.

Our conversation was cut short. He said, his voice no longer carrying over the speakers.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Thank you, Sir.

Jade replied, with a light smile and a nod of his head before he turned his head to watch the goings on once more. Hopefully Aunna would forgive him later for his request to the prince. He had to admit, as he watched the way the prince handled things, that he was quite a swift thinker, and one who could charm others easily.

The conductor and Aunna both had been in mid sentence when Rook hopped up onto the stage. In her surprise, she paused in her words and blinked at what he said, blushing brightly. Oh if only her hair hadn't been restrained by those braids! She could do with a good shield of hair to hide that redness in her cheeks. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be. Instead she simply bowed her head slightly in an unusual display of embarrassment as the conductor moved back toward the orchestra. Looking back up once more, she saw that charming smile and couldn't help but smile gratefully back at the younger man, her face feeling hot despite the fact that the blush was slowly starting to fade. Watching him extend his hand toward her, Aunna nodded slightly and took it quietly, allowing him to lead her down the steps of the stage. She desperately hoped he wouldn't feel her shaking from the stress of the song. That was the LAST thing she needed, to have him think she was afraid or weak...she wasn't sure which would be worse.

Yes...it was, Prince Rook.

She replied, as the orchestra started up a flowing waltz. The blue eyed woman allowed herself to be lead onto the dance floor before placing one hand on his shoulder, waiting for him to start their dancing off.

By the way...thank you for helping me just now. I don't think I could have sung another song so soon.

Thankfully, the more she moved the less she shook, unfortunately, Aunna hadn't managed to move enough yet to stop her shaking completely. She was able to suppress it, however, hopefully keeping Rook from noticing it.

[Meira]

As he led her off the stage and onto the dance floor, Rook could tell that Aunna's singing had left her a bit shaken. But he passed it off as nerves and let it slip from his mind. As the two moved into a starting position, he smiled at her again. Placing his hand at her waist, Rook started them into motion. Waltzes were his favorite of the dances he had been forced to learn. He liked the difference in the rhythm. It was a dynamic dance, no matter what the speed.

When Aunna thanked him, he gave a slight nod to show he accepted her gratitude, but he could not claim it entirely as his own idea. You should thank your brother. Rook said with a smile, nodding his head in the direction of where Jade stood. He requested, on your behalf.

After taking a few moments to get into the song, Rook finally spoke. You have a beautiful voice. He said. It was a generic compliment that hopefully wouldn't ruffle feathers. He had already caused her to blush once. And though he had to admit he had enjoyed it, he wasn't intending to do it again. So instead of dwelling on an embarrassing topic, he changed it.

I've been trying to remember where I've seen that symbol on your necklace. He said, his eyebrows knitting back together with thought. He had wanted to remember, but it had become too frustrating, and so had decided to ask. Maybe it was just a family symbol, but he didn't know her family too particularly well. Just that they were a very patriotic bunch.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

In all honesty, Aunna loved dancing, and had readily absorbed all the dances she had been taught, but...she HATED the actual DANCES. Social gatherings had never really been her strong point, at least not when it came to nobility and military, well, the 'posh' military...the officers. She could get on with civilians and the enlisted...the grunts of the military...just fine, it was just all the uptight members of society she didn't mesh well with. Prince Rook, however, seemed to be of the same caliber as herself...just playing the socialite game, and being a completely different person on the inside. It was refreshing to say the least. When he mentioned Jade, however, her eyes darkened to a blue grey in her annoyance.

He did, did he? Hmph...well, at least he meant well...and it turned our fine this time around.

She replied with a bit of that annoyance at her twin creeping into her voice. After a few moments of following his lead, he was a wonderful dancer...but what had she expected of a Prince?...Rook complimented her on her voice. Aunna chuckled slightly and shook her head a bit as she flowed along with him.

Thank you. I actually get that quite a bit...though...typically it's followed by "it's being wasted on the military"...

Chuckling again, the young woman had enough of a mind at this point to shoot her brother a "you're going to get it later" glare as they passed him, to which he nodded in understanding before moving on with the man he was currently talking to. It was in the midst of this short interaction that Rook asked about the necklace she was wearing. Returning her attention to the Prince, she tilted her head to the side slightly, only thinking of the angel wings there. Certainly he knew what angel wings were? It was then she remembered the medal she had hung proudly on it. Grinning, Aunna wondered why he didn't remember it himself. Well, he wasn't in the navy was he? Just because he was one of the Royal family didn't mean he knew all the medals their navy handed out.

That's a medal I received in the our navy for my piloting skills during a skirmish two months ago.

She replied, sounding rather proud of her accomplishment. She actually was VERY proud of it...it hadn't been something Jade had received as well, which was unusual and so made her feel a bit better in her position in the navy.

[Meira]

Her response to the comment about her brother showed the playful sibling rivalry that Rook sometimes missed. When he was younger, and when his older brothers were younger, they enjoyed that same kind of love-to-hate-each other mentality. But as they aged, two of the Solosten Princes became up-tight and boring, while the third was left to his own devices. It had hurt him at first, and still did from time to time, but the years had thickened his skin and coated it with a strong outer layer of feigned indifference. He played the part so well, he even convinced himself on occasion.

Her response to his compliment was only half registered. As Rook had expected, Aunna had taken the compliment blushingly, but she had not dismissed it. She knew she was a good singer, but her acceptance was not with arrogance, but with a matter-of-fact sincerity. It was refreshing.

It wasn't until she answered his question that the last part of her previous statement registered in his mind. Of course! He said, a little louder than he might have meant to, and almost stopping in the middle of the floor. It was now his turn to flush. His ears reddened slightly as he got them back on step. It made perfect sense now. I remember now. He said, hoping to help her forget his sudden outburst. I had been wondering what it was that set you apart from all the other women I've met today. He said, stepping back and raising one hand to allow Aunna to spin. There aren't many noble women in the military. The spin had ended and Rook pulled her back toward himself, his gray eyes looking into blue.

It's refreshing. And the two continued on in the never ending circular path around the dance floor. Most noble women are far too concerned about their hair or their shoes. Not exactly a topic I'd love to dive in to. His smiling face showed that it was something he had suffered on a number of occasions. Tell me about the skirmish. Unlike my brother Arden... Rook gestured with a tilt of his head towards where the second Prince of Corellia was speaking with yet another young noblewoman. ...I don't seem to be the military type, but I am interested.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Aunna followed him around the dance floor to the seemingly never ending beat and music of the waltz. It was a nice enough dance, but give her a tango or perhaps a paso doble, or something with a bit more flare, and she'd be much happier. Despite that though, Aunna followed along flawlessly. It wasn't until Rook stopped suddenly in his outburst of realization that she nearly lost her balance, only barely catching herself from stumbling and falling by pulling against his hold on her slightly and planting a foot. Laughing lightly at his sudden recognition, his reaction, and the subsequent reddening of his ears, Aunna allowed herself to be swept back into the beat of the music. Her eyes danced in mild amusement as he spoke again before he spun her out and away slightly before pulling her back toward him. So he had been wondering what had set her apart? Was THAT why he'd been so silent when she'd first met him? Well that was interesting to say the least. Aunna didn't see herself as a person to catch anyone's interest, least of all a prince, and to have it be because she was in the military?! She couldn't help but chuckle again at the though.

I suppose that would be why. I DO come from one of your longest running military families here on Corellia...I'm slightly surprised you didn't recognize the last name. Then, I suppose I shouldn't be....you have far to many to try to remember.

She stated motioning to the crowd of nobles milling about the grounds with an uptilt of her chin for a moment before looking back to him. Aunna nodded to his observation, however. Indeed, there weren't many noblewomen who joined the military...they did all seem to be only concerned with the latest fashions and gossip, and she groaned slightly at the thought. Eventually she'd have to go back to that twittering mess of ladies her own age.

I agree. They tend to be peacocks strutting about and showing off their feathers when they aren't off twittering to each other like chickadees over the latest gossip. I can hardly stay sane being around it honestly. I'd rather fend of a rancor.

She gave a little, derisive, huff of breath at the thought and shook her head slightly.

If I had my way I'd be with the men talking about the military or...god forbid....politics. Unfortunately, I'm an outcast in both circles...I don't have the proper appendages to be with the men, and I'm not superficial enough to be welcome by the women....it's disconcerting...

It was obvious that the young woman meant every word of what she said. Aunna had experienced both sides of the coin first hand, and she did nearly every time her parents forced her to go to one of these idiotic social gatherings. Her father got on well enough, as did Jade, her mother played the part well, though Aunna knew she hated the drivel nearly as much as Aunna...only difference, her mother was actually interested in the fashions simply because they were beautiful...or sometimes so ridiculous it was funny. Aunna, however, couldn't even stomach that aspect for fear of saying something rude or out of place and stepping on someone's emotional toes. It was this thought that made the young brunette painfully aware of what she had just said. Cringing inwardly, she bit the inside of her lip slightly.

I'm sorry if that was out of place Prince Rook....I....well I tend to be very opinionated, and...heh...I let my mouth get away from me. Yet another reason I don't fit in here.

Shaking her head slightly, she gazed toward Rook's older brother and huffed slightly, still miffed at the way she had allowed herself to say such forward things about the nobles around them so easily to one of the Princes. Only after a moment did she realize that he was asking her about the skirmish. Chuckling lightly Aunna shook her head a bit and gave a mild shrug of her shoulders.

It wasn't anything fancy honestly....and it certainly didn't involve any heroics. Basically it was a rather large band of pirates in fighters and with one blockade runner. They were trying to get to the shipyards, and they seemed well organized so we think they had been planning it for a while...especially with the amount of them.

Rear Admiral Donald Kail...my commander...scrambled my squad to engage the fighters. Our Lieutenant was killed during the fight and suddenly it was almost like everyone forgot where their head was at. If they'd kept it together I wouldn't have barked any orders at them but they were becoming disorganized so I called them in to my fighter so we could make a sweep of the Runner. I figured that since it was the only one sitting back from the fight for the most part that it was their leader....not only that but...I just got this odd feeling from it.

Aunna paused for a moment, thinking back on the situation and shaking her head slightly as they continued to move. Her mind remotely registered the fact that the swell of the music denoted the final part of the dance and she sighed slightly. She REALLY didn't want to go back to those chittering biddies....young and old.

I informed Admiral Kail of my intentions and so we made our run and crippled the ship before we saw to the rest of the fighters as the flagship went to clean up the rest of their leader in the blockade runner. It really was short work after that, and I've no idea how they thought I needed a medal for it, but....I wasn't going to complain.

Aunna frowned a bit then and shook her head gazing off over Rook's shoulder for a moment before coming back to reality again.

Typically it's my brother getting the praise, especially when it's putting us side by side so it was a nice change of pace for me. Though...I think I might try my hand in the Republic Army not to long from now. Don't get me wrong...our navy is wonderful, but...I find it too impersonal. I'd rather be able to help people face to face...to really know that I'm helping things, not accidentally bombing someone's home while I'm trying to get to my targets. Does that make sense?

Aunna tilted her head to the side slightly at her own question. Sometimes she didn't make sense to herself, let alone others, so she felt the need to ask from time to time.

[Meira]

Rook was silent again as he listened to Aunna speak. He marveled at her straightforward attitude. She didn't dance around with her words, she said them. He smiled slightly to himself as he listened to her. Like everything else about her, her opinions were refreshing. He didn't know too many people with the guts to say what they thought so bluntly. But then again, he didn't know too many noblewomen who served in the military either. He made the assumption that Aunna must, by nature, possess a more than normal amount of guts for a noble woman.

The song rose to a peak as she finished with her explanation of how she got the medal. She mentioned Donald Kail, and Rook nodded in recognition. Now Kail was a military name he recognized. He was an old friend of the family, and one man that Rook actually looked up to in a way. Not necessarily because of his ambition or accomplishments, but just for being the kind of man that he was.

Rook ended their dance by twirling Aunna and then lowering her into a dip. The guests applauded the band, and some applauded the two's finishing move. Helping her to stand, Rook led her off the floor and towards a refreshment table where an attendant waited to take their order.

You might find it hard to believe... He said, ordering two drinks. But, I think you and I have quite a bit in common. Both of us fall in the shadows of our siblings. We don't quite fit in with our peers... He trailed off as the attendant handed them their drinks. He took a sip with a slight sigh. But I'm afriad I've got an awful singing voice, so you've got me on that one. He said with a smile, lightening up the mood that he had unintentionally darkened.

So other than fighting and singing, what do you do in your free time Aunna? He said, his eyes on hers. The more he learned about her, the more interested he was. He wanted to learn as much as she was willing to tell him.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

(YAY! post!!)

Aunna was surprised at how well he listened to her ramblings. Really, what she had to say held little importance, so why listen? At least, this was her thinking. As he spun her about and dipped her back she forced herself to trust him not to drop her. She'd had it happen more than once, and lifts in dancing were worse, causing her to dislike being picked up or bent backward at all...but she was pleased to find that he simply brought her back up to a standing position once more without injury to her person or her pride. Following him off the dance floor and toward the refreshment table, Aunna was greeted by the sweet smells of pastries and fruity drinks and wines. Taking one of the...less alcoholic...Corellian drinks she gazed at Rook thoughtfully as he spoke. It was true enough, the fact that they had those things in common. His last statement, though, made her laugh causing her to dip her head down and cover her eyes with a hand for a moment before looking up at him again.

I suppose I'll take your word for that.

At his question, she tilted her head to the side slightly and thought a moment. There really wasn't much time to do things OTHER than work being in the military and all....not recently anyway.

Well....to be honest, I don't really like fighting. Sparring, sure, but the killing that goes with fighting isn't something I like...it's just...a necessary evil sometimes.

She shrugged slightly, the silk of her dress rustling slightly with the motion.

Before I joined the military I used to love to dance, I would help my mom with the gardens, I would help the cooks sometimes...I'm actually rather fond of swimming and anything out doors....but I'm fairly open minded to try anything really.

What about you? Here you are learning all of this about me, but I don't really know much about you. C'mon...offer up a bit of information here Mr Prince Rook, sir.

She teased as she started walking toward an open bench along the edge of the party. After all of that dancing and the singing she REALLY felt like sitting down for a moment or two. Besides, Rook was good company, and she found herself quite interested in the man despite the title he bore.

[Meira]

He tried to imagine her in a garden with her mother. In his mind, he invisioned Aunna's mother trying to garden without getting her dress dirty, as Aunna used a large military knife to cut a hole in the ground for a plant. He smiled at the thought.

When she said swimming, he had an urge to steal her away to the palace pools for a quick dip, but she didn't seem like the kind to just strip down and jump in with him. And to tell the truth, behind his dashing smile, Rook was still a youth. His charming personality was all too often a bluff to cover up his youthful inexperience.

When Aunna asked about him, Rook chuckled at the sarcastic politeness she showed. Now there was a question he didn't get often. If people were interested in him at all, it was in his station, not his person. But Aunna was indeed genuinely interested, so he responded with the same honesty she had shown him.

Hunting mostly. He said, sitting down onto the bench and leaning back. I'm pretty good in my law class debates, though to be honest, I think my oponents let me win most of the time. He smiled, though he was secretly annoyed by it. My father and I used to go fishing every now and then, but he hardly has much time anymore.

Looking around the party, Rook suddenly didn't want to be there anymore. Though they were outdoors on the grounds, everything felt stuffy. He looked back at Aunna, not entirely sure of what he was going to say until it came out.

Would you like to go for a ride?

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

((omg Meira i love you! you unwittingly just helped me with something I REALLY needed help with!))

Bah, hunting....I try to stay away from death, thanks, I don't like the feel of it, so forgive me if I don't plan on joining you for anything like that.

Aunna stated, sitting down with practiced grace on the bench behind her. Aunna didn't mind the prince's choice in enjoyments, true she didn't want to be part of them, but she wouldn't penalize him for them either. When he mentioned fishing, however, she smirked slightly.

My dad used to take Jade and I fishing also...it drove my mother insane having me out there with them, but I always managed to talk her into letting me...at least until I turned 12.

She shrugged a bit then, her shoulders rising and falling lightly at the thought. The young woman missed those days...things were easier then. She didn't have so much to worry about, she didn't have to follow every rule, catch every hint, mind everyone's body language for tips on if she was doing things right or not....she could just be herself and enjoy life. The brunette glanced around the party's attendants and sighed heavily. The tall trees and sculpted bushes cast long shadows across the ground like the bars on a cell. Her heartbeat swiftened slightly as she realized just how caged she felt here. Her eyes lifted to catch a glimpse of a flock of small birds flutter to the skies above and out of sight, chirping and singing happily in their ascent.
How she envied them at this moment.

No sooner had she lowered her head slightly to gaze unseeingly at the glass she held in her hands than Rook spoke again. Lifting her face enough to look at him, she smiled slightly and nodded rather gratefully. Anything to get away from this cage for a little while.

I would love to....more than you know.

She said quietly, getting the feeling that maybe...just maybe...he was feeling similarly.

[Meira]

When she agreed to go for a ride, Rook's smile changed from cocky and charming, to one of pure, genuine happiness. The expression extended beyond his lips to his grey eyes that lit up as if with their own inner light. She was willing to step away from the superficial and stuffy world of the Corellian elite. That meant more than just going for a ride. Aunna was willing to let go and maybe even fully be herself. Rook was elated.

Never once had a young noblewoman agreed to share in the simple experience with him. They found the activity unseemly, or were afraid they might embarrass themselves. But Rook had had a feeling that Aunna would continue to set herself apart from her peers, and he had been right. With the excitement of a young boy on the dawn of his birthday, Rook took Aunna's hand into his own. With a careful glance around to be sure no one was looking, he led her away through a grouping of trees. He moved with quick steps until he was sure the wedding guests and palace guards were a good distance behind them, then looped around toward the palace stables.

The Solosten family boasted a healthy population of Carrion Spats. The large, flightless birds were expensive to keep, and so were exclusive to the most wealthy of Corellian citizens. Prized for their quick gait and even faster reflexes, they were excelent mounts for hunting. But they were equally good for a leisurly ride. Rook led Aunna through the stables, where individual pens lined both sides. The birds squaked their greeting, ruffling feathers in excitement. They had long since learned that the appearance of the third prince was a promise for a good ride.

At the end of the row, the stables keeper was sleeping, his feet propped up against a wall and a hat low over his eyes. Rook cleared his throat and the man nearly fell from his chair. Once he recovered his balance, his face reddened bashfully. But before he could stammer out an apology, Rook cut him off.

It's alright, Alex. Just, don't mention you ever saw us, and I won't mention you were napping on the job.

Alex was quick to agree and Rook set about saddling up two birds. It was quick work, and soon enough Rook extended his hand to help Aunna up into her saddle.

There's a great stretch of land to the south of here. The birds love the tall grass and I love the quiet.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

To say that Aunna was thrilled with leaving would be an understatement. The young woman could almost feel the excitement radiating from Rook as he stood and took her hand. Following his lead, Aunna nearly danced around him once they were out of sight of the others at the party. As if to emphasize her feeling of freedom, however short lived, Aunna immediately pulled her hair out of its braid and shook it out, allowing it's golden brown waves to fall around her face. The light breeze picked up the loose, silken, feathery, strands and tussled them about lightly as she laughed lightly, enjoying the day at last.

As they neared the stables Aunna heard the unmistakable sounds of of the Spats squawking quietly to each other. As they entered the darkened stables, she was greeted by the dusty smell of straw and feed, and the cacophony of squawks from the birds around them. She was glad he'd meant an actual ride, not going out in a speeder...she preferred living beings to cold metal any day...though she'd only ridden a spat a hand full of times. Just enough for a few proper lessons that any young lady should have, and no more. Following beside Rook, she smiled at the older man sleeping there at the back of the stables and stifled a giggle when he nearly fell over. As the tack was gotten and Rook swiftly saddled and bridled the birds, she leaned casually against one of the gates to the stalls.

Sorry I'm not of much use in readying them...my lessons only covered the basics of riding, and I was lucky to even get those.

She said with a shrug, stepping up to one of the birds and holding out a hand before her until it pushed its beak against the palm of her hand and breathed heavily against it. Only then did she pet the dark red plumage of the spat along it's neck. They weren't exactly the most beautiful things in the world, but she enjoyed them anyway...their lives alone made her happy. Smiling as he finished, she took his hand and carefully got into the saddle, situating her dress as best she could.

Gah, I hate dresses. You can't move properly in them. What I wouldn't give for my uniform right about now! Heh...anything besides this.

She huffed a sigh slightly and shook her head, pulling her hair back and tying it up, a few long strands falling out and framing her face.

Oh well...beggars can't be choosers, and at least we're getting out of here for a little while.

She stated, deciding to make the best out of things. As she listened to what he had to say, she nodded slightly and motioned for him to lead the way.

After you then...just be warned that I can't go too fast as I've not had much practice.

It was true, she knew the basics, but that was about it, so she waited for Rook to take the lead.

[Meira]

Rook shook his head as Aunna tried to apologize for not helping to prepare the spats. He wouldn't accept an unnecessary apology. He hadn't offered to saddle her bird, he had simply done it because it was what a young man was supposed to do for a young lady. It would be discourteous of me to not saddle your bird, Aunna. He said with a matter of fact tone as he helped her up onto the bird.

He then quickly hopped up on the other spat and lead the way out of the stables. The birds walked with an edge of energy, and Rook could tell that the one he was riding was eager to run, if only it was given the signal. But Aunna had mentioned she couldn't ride too well, so he reigned in the bird's energy and led the way at a slow trot. Maybe, if Aunna was willing, he would have her ride with him once they got out to the fields. She could feel the wind in her hair without fear of falling off.

But Rook left that thought for later. For now, they moved across the grounds until they came to a gate. Rook slipped down from his saddle to open the gate and allow them all to pass through and closed it behind them. Within moments, he was back up in his saddle with a grin on his face. They were now officially off Palace grounds, though the family did still own this land.

It was obvious that the aesthetic maintenance of the land was not as important out here. The grass grew taller, and all the plants in general gave off a more untamed feel. The birds moved along at a steady pace until they came to a creek. Splashing across, the landscape opened up to a large clearing, full of flowers and grass and surrounded by large trees. Birds flew around the meadow, chirping and swooping low after insects. Every now and then a rustle in the grass indicated the presence of a small creature. The wind was gentle and soundless, giving the clearing an otherworldly feel.

Rook hopped down once again and took a canteen from one of the packs. He dipped it into the creek to fill and then offered his hand to help Aunna down off the bird. He held out the canteen for her to drink. So what do you think? He asked, holding his arms out, presenting the landscape for her judgment.

[Talau the Ever-Lurking]

Aunna simply snickered and rolled her eyes a bit at his comment. Well, he WAS a prince, and no matter how different he was, there would always be something about him that showed his upbringing...at least in this case it was the manners and not something worse. To be honest, Aunna was still looking for a fault, something that would show just how much like the others he was...but she was having such a difficult time with it. She didn't want him to be handsome, and honest, and charming, and GOD this wasn't helping at all.....she could NOT have a crush on him! She was nothing but a low level noble and military girl, he was a PRINCE for goodness sake! Huffing at herself, Aunna tapped the bird's side with one of her heels to get it to follow along with Rook's. Thankfully her spat seemed easy going, happy with the light pace they were taking, and she was just fine with that. It was a beautiful day out, and she really felt no need to rush it along with a swift pace. Perhaps a bit later she could try her hand, but not now. As they reached the gate, Aunna watched Rook slide from his bird and open it before leaping lightly back into the saddle.

Show off.

She teased lightly as he grinned over at her and they started out once again. As they reached the more untamed lands that the royal family held, Aunna took a deep, calming, breath and gazed around happily. The dappled sunlight through the trees, the butterflies dancing like fairies among the wildflowers, the birds and small animals....the area just felt ALIVE. She loved that feeling more than anything else. It was why she loved Corellia. So many planets were filled with large cities where only 'sentient' species lived...few to no trees and grass, birds and animals were few and domesticated more often than not....those places felt dead to her, hollow. All she could feel was the ache of the planet as it groaned beneath the stress of those cities. THIS, however, was different....here, it was alive and green and new. The planet sang and was happy and flourishing...and in turn, it made her happy.

As they splashed across a shallow creek, Aunna gazed around the meadow a light smile on her face, her entire person seeming to almost absorb the calming energy from the scene as it played out before them. It was only a moment before Rook's movement caught the young woman's attention, and she watched him fill the canteen from the creek for a moment before slipping out of the saddle as well, landing with a light rustle of grass and material. By the time he offered his hand for her to get down, she already was. Walking the little distance to where he was, Aunna shook her head to the proffered canteen, but smiled as he presented the scene to her.

It's beautiful, Rook. I could live happily in a place like this, just...away from everything. It feels so calm and peaceful and...alive...out here. It's like a paradise to me, especially compared to places like Coruscant.

She replied, looking up into his stormy grey eyes and smiling placidly.

Thank you for bringing me out here....really.