Beauty Before Age[Rook/Sali]

[Jace]

Sébastien Eliar Reventón, Prince of Alderaan, sat quietly in his private study in the royal palace. He didn't really do much studying there, but the room had its uses. The young prince had arrived not long ago after attending an arts exhibit in the nearby museum. It had been quite a boring event but he had met a pair who had livened things up a bit. Sébastien now waited patiently quietly in the dim room for his guests to arrive.

The art exhibition wasn't boring because of the pieces on display but rather the people. Though he didn't devote much time to the appreciation of art, Sébastien respected aesthetics to a certain extent. Since the event had been held on Alderaan though, he had already seen all the pieces before hand. No it wasn't even that, it was the people. The conversation had all been the same, and it surely wasn't about art, it was about the war. He was so tired about all this war talk, it wasn't as if the galaxy was ending.

He reached out to towards the table and grabbed his drink that he had made for him only moments ago. Sébastien wasn't the type to sit idly around, well at least not when he was completely sober. The drink was much to his liking, though there were only so many drinks that weren't. Of course Sébastien only drank the finest but alcohol was alcohol, and no matter what you drank, enough of it would get you drunk. He knew that fact all too well, much to well for his mother's liking.

"Happy" was all that Sébastien heard from the girl in front of him

"What did you say Isabelle?"

"My lord, I was just saying that you look quite happy"

"Indeed" commented the prince with a small grin.

There was no denying it, Sébastien was excited to see on old friend. It would be nice to see a familiar face, a person who was an equal ground with him. A man who he could actually respect and call a true friend. Little did Sébastien know that his friend had changed quite a bit since they last saw each other.

Sébastien took another sip of his cocktail before inquiring "Have they arrived yet?"

"No, my lord"

"Has everything been made ready?"

"I think so, my lord"

"Well run along and make sure" commanded Sébastien with a wave of his hand.

The maid bowed and quickly shuffled out of the room. If there was one thing in this world that the prince was, it was a good host. Sébastien was notorious for showing his guests a good time, maybe even too good a time. He idly tapped the desk on which his arm rested, his impatience was becoming palpable. Sébastien was not fond of waiting but he new it was all part of the game. Five minutes later a knock came at the door and a butler slipped quietly into the room.

"What is it?"

"Sir, your guests have arrived"

"Good, very good"

The prince of Alderaan casually stood from his seat, straitened his suit out and headed through the door. He would go and personally meet his guests at the entrance. If anything, tonight would be quite an interesting one. It had been much too long since Sébastien had truly enjoyed himself, especially since the war started. As he strode through the halls of the palace, he wondered if he had acquired the proper ale for his guests.

[Meira]

This was going to be a rare pleasure indeed. Rook had not seen Sébastien in years. Since their... adventures aboard the Hydian Princess, the two had promised to keep in touch. And they had, for a time, but life had a way of leading people in their own directions. It had happened that the two hadn't crossed paths until now. And Rook was genuinely happy to have seen Sébastien again.

Sébastien woke up a dormant part of Rook's personality. Though he was still technically a bachelor, Rook had not been able to act the part for some time, such was his fate. But when Rook found himself in the Prince's presence at the art exhibition, it was as if those years inbetween their last encounter hadn't occured. Rook was not old, but he felt younger again, livelier. The exhibition had been rather boring, in Rook's eyes, but Sébastien always had a way of livening up a situation.

What made it even better was that Sali had also chosen to attend the event. Rook had immediately gravitated to her. He had only one adviser in attendance with him, and had sent the man to speak with a few friendly officials on matters he didn't want to be bothered with. It seemed Sali was also light of advisers. ANd since their last time together had been so... well, he was very happy to see her.

Of course, Sébastien being who he was, had spared no time in flattering Sali. Rook had stiffened his jaw slightly for a bit, irked. But He had to remind himself that Sébastien was... well, Sébastien.

When the invitation to dinner was presented, Rook agreed immediately. He relished the idea of a relaxed meal with two people he could indeed call friends. No politics, no expectations, just fine food and even finer conversation.

He'd dressed comfortably, nothing formal, for sure, but still befiting the king that he was. When he arrived, he noted that Sali had also arrived near the same time as himself. They were first greeted by a servant who then went to announce their arrival. While they waited, Rook placed himself closer to Sali. Though he smiled knowingly, he kept his hands clasped chastely behind his back.

You are beautiful, as always. He said, inclining his head slightly as his smile broadened.

[Squee]

((Unfortunately for the girl who doesn’t know much, I don’t know how to accent mark Sebastien’s name. =/))

It’d been far too long since she had indulged herself in the culture of other planets. Last time had been… well, when she’d gone to Corellia to visit Rook after his entire family had been killed. She’d love the inside decoration of his palace. Then again, she tended to enjoy the arts of different planets because she didn’t see them all the time. She did have a couple – or handful – of baubles from previous visits. They were so fine and so exotic and so… almost forbidden.

Oh, and there was Rook. Seemed too long since she’d seen him as well, though it really had been only a few weeks. Yes, much too long. He was very fine and exotic, but much more than a standing piece of artwork. So when he’d asked to tour with her, Sali had displayed her greatest enjoyment smile, her giddier and more elated feelings locked up behind it. She’d slipped her arm through his and rested her hand as close to his hand as she dared.

Then there was meeting that Sebastien. Of course the prince would be here, Sali thought, it was a major event and the planet’s royalty had to show interest in the art. However, the prince’s body language spoke to her in volumes of boredom. Near to tears, if she had to guess. He was forced here. How sad. Though a glance or two at Rook brightened the dullness in the prince… and it also jump-started Rook, which had made her giggle. It so happened the two were friends, and they chatted up and Sebastien worked on impressing her with flattery. Which… some of it worked.

Now it was dinner time. It had been an invitation Sali had pushed, because the couple of advisors with her had wanted to attend this event and then get the heck out. She’d turned their frowns into hard-pressed lines of “we-can’t-tell-you-no”. Of course the final decision was hers, but at least they would grudgingly accepted her “establishing and reaffirming relationships with fellow monarchs”. It kept them from screaming at her later about how she didn’t “seek their advice”. So much for royalty gets to do whatever they want.

“And you’re handsome,” she replied rather quickly to Rook. “As properly should be. Or would be. If that bit of collar was folded correctly.” Without thinking much about her actions, Sali tugged the corner down so it was symmetrically identical to the opposite corner. He wore a more casual attire than her, though Sali’s choice of casual was a step up from his. She’d chosen a loose-fitting red-wine colored gown with drooping sleeves, fashioned with a little gold and a sparkling green trim. Her hair was far less elaborate from earlier, however, allowed freedom down her back with a braid beginning on either side of her head and joined as one, resting on top the smooth and flat under layer.

She took a half-step back from him, clasping her hands politely in front of her, and breathed in deeply. Smirking, she stated lightly, “I’m hungry.”

[Jace]

Sébastien strode through the hallways, failing to hide his excitement at the prospect of tonight's events. Since this wasn't a formal occasion, the young prince sported a rather simple(but expensive) gray suit. Indeed he almost always wore a suit, there was nothing like the feel of a fine material on your body. If there was anyone in this galaxy who enjoyed the finer things in life more than Sébastien, he would be hard pressed to find them. Servants bowed here and there as he made his way through the final hallway and to the entrance where his guests waited.

"Rook! I never remember you being this punctual" stated Sébastien with a friendly chide as he entered the room to see his two guests waiting. He stopped a few feet before them and made an exaggerated bow.

"You humble this lowly prince with your presences, King Solosten and Queen Hyria"

It had been quite some time since Sébastien had seen his old friend. Indeed it might have been as far back as their escapades on the Hydian Princess.

That was some holiday thought the prince with a faint touch of nostalgia.

He had seen Rook again for the first time earlier at the art exhibition and was surprised by what he saw. His old friend had seemed much older, and worn. Sébastien was of course aware of the loss of his family and didn't blame the man. It wasn't just that though, Rook seemed more mature...God forbid. Yet even through his loss, the man still seemed happy. Sébastien had no doubt that the woman standing in front of him was the source of that happiness.

"Sali" stated Sébastien in a soft tone as he took her hand and kissed it ever so gently, completely ignoring Rook. "It is my pleasure to welcome you to Alderaan, no doubt your beauty will enliven my dull home."

Sébastien finally turned his attention back to Rook and gave his old friend a slap on the shoulder.

"So is she why you haven't come and visited me yet?"

It was then that Sébastien suddenly remembered the purpose of their visit.

"You both must be famished, let us move this conversation to the dining hall"

The prince motioned for the pair to follow him down the hallway and toward the dining hall. Sébastien was quite proud of the dining hall in their house. It was rather extravagant, much like everything else to do with Sébastien. High vaulted ceilings and tastefully upholstered chairs, the only thing that was missing was ultrachrome utensils. He had ordered that a smaller table be set up, it was only three of them afterall and it was an informal dinner. Sébastien motioned for the two to take a seat as various appetizers were brought in.

"So what will you two have to drink?" inquired Sébastien with a knowing smile.

[Meira]

Sali's hand adjusted his collar, and Rook's twitched behind his back. The urge to take her hand had been strong, but he'd suppresed it. They were not hidden in some garden, after all.

"I..."

Sébastien appeared quite suddenly through the door, his first words quite typical of what Rook might have expected from his old friend.

"I'm surprised you remember me at all." Rook chuckled, their shared adventure- or what could be remembered between the excessive amounts of alcohol- coming to mind again.

Sébastien bowed.

Rook rolled his eyes.

Sébastien took Sali's hand, kissing it and laying his lines on thick.

Rook bit his tongue.

When Sebastien decided to remember his presence once again, Rook laughed and shook his head. "Would you blame me?" His smile was wide, but as Sébastien turned to lead them to the dining hall, it turned slightly apologetic for Sali's sake. But only slightly.

They reached the table that had been set for them, and Sébastien asked what they'd have to drink as Rook made sure to pull out Sali's chair for her.

"Don't let this one pick your drink." Rook warned Sali as he took his own seat, that mischevious grin returning to his face. "You might forget your own name." His eyes turned back to Sébastien. "I'll try your ale. Let's see how it compares, eh?"

[Squee]

Rook managed a syllable before Sebastien arrived, his presence made loud by voice and energetic aura. Sali’s body swayed slightly away from Rook and she twisted forward to Sebastien. A pleasant smile rested upon her mouth, polite and respectful. She didn’t know Sebastien much more than what you could learn from his profile. Was this simply going to be a Rook and Sebastien thing tonight? The thought of refusing the invitation had crossed her mind. Let the boys have their night, had been her first line of reasoning. Yet, here she was.

A bow? She ventured a glance at Rook with one eyebrow twitching upward, then gestured with her head toward Sebastien before the prince could look up. What’s up with him? Rook rolled his eyes, which impressed Sali’s amused smile back to her lips. As the prince straightened up, Sali returned it with a shallow dip. Just to be respectful.

And as per usual, Sali relinquished her hand to Sebastien, hoping he’d washed it, and prepared for a flattering “welcome to my palace/Alderaan, blah, blah, blah…”. Sali was sure she’d heard it all. Sebastien did speak to a certain depth that made the comment seem amazingly special, and Sali couldn’t suppress the laugh.

“As a woman, only… Sebastien? May I call you that? Only as a woman. I would not want to ruin your gorgeous Alderaan unique with Onderon presence; neither would I want to make her jealous.” Sali withdrew her hand gently, joining it back with its sister hand as Sebastien greeted Rook with a friendly shoulder clap.

"So is she why you haven't come and visited me yet?"

Sali’s cheeks pinked and her eyes skipped past Sebastien to Rook.

"Would you blame me?"

Oh thank the Force she’d decided to put on a slightly darker blush, for she could feel her cheeks grow darker. Sebastien began to lead them and Rook shot her a look with a brush of apology. Again, Sali’s eyebrow rose, finding the comment and the apology an odd mix. Why not say what you mean?

However, she nodded once to him.

Yes, she saw.

Then she smiled.

No, she did not mind.

Just as she’d done in many palaces and mansions of the like, Sali studied the walls, doors, and decoration. Some bobbles she liked. A crevice in the design she fancied. That vase… was it textured? Dare she touch it? No, no… Dare she not. The shiny reflection of the ground and the patterns she walked on attracted her eye too briefly. The walls were more interesting.

To her relief, there was a smaller table set up. She wondered if they were going to be spaced out by a great numbers of feet, having to shout at each other across the table to pass… ahem, slide the spices. She thanked Rook as she sat down and made herself comfortable. After offered a drink and a quick warning from Rook, who spoke as if he had experience with Sebastien’s choice of drink, Sali paused in her decision a moment more.

“Surprise me,” she finally said, “Except… no stronger than wine, please.” Sali crossed her legs under the table and leaned prettily on the armrest, hand draped over hand. “Sebastien, while I do not wish to bore you, I simply had a quick question: Do any of the markings on the walls have significance or is it just… pretty? A yes/no styled answer will satisfy me.”

[Jace]

Sébastien was pleased to see that both his guests seemed to be an amiable mood. There were too many dull people in this galaxy, some liveliness was needed. The prince could only grin as Rook warned Sali about letting Sébastien choose the drinks. Sadly, Rook knew him all too well for him to pull something that simple. No doubt there would be other opportunities during the night for some mischief.

He motioned for one of the waiters to come over and ordered their drinks "An ale for myself and the King, and one of our finest for the Queen. I don't care which as long as she isn't disappointed" If there was one thing that this house was well stocked for, it was alcohol.

Sébastien then turned his attention back to Sali who had asked him about the walls. He raised an eyebrow at how she formed the question, and then smiled. There was no doubt that she was indeed a queen, the way she spoke reminded him vaguely of another queen.

"I am sure they do, I just don't know what is" he stated in response to her question.

The drinks came out only a few minutes later and Sébastien raised his glass in a toast.

"To old friends, and new ones" were his words as he tossed a wink in Sali's direction.

The prince wasn't one to waste any time and took a very generous sip from his drink. He savored the taste for a moment, quite happy with this particular choice in ale. Sébastien would have to make sure they were well stocked in the brew. The waiter who had brought their drinks also informed him that dinner would be served very shortly.

"I am usually quite well informed about royal couples but you both have me completely at a loss. Forgive my crudeness, but when did you two become an item?"

Sébastien forced himself to suppress a grin, he was going to thoroughly enjoying seeing who would squirm more.

[Meira]

Rook's eyes turned up to the walls when Sali voiced her question. He'd not really noticed the walls. Then again, Rook wasn't much for decor. He hadn't picked a single thing within his home, save for the furnishings in his own private quarters. But Sali took interest in such things. She'd done so when she visited Corellia, and she was doing so here. Sébastien answered the same way Rook might have about the walls in his own palace.

Their drinks arrived and Rook took his, raising his glass with the others to Sébastien's toast. The ale was smooth, with a clean finish. Very good, even though it lacked that characteristic spicy kick that the ale of his home world was so famous for. The novelty was pleasant, but they couldn't all be Corellian.

"I am usually quite well informed about royal couples but you both have me completely at a loss. Forgive my crudeness, but when did you two become an item?"

Rook had only just swallowed when the question was put out. Though it did not choke him up, Rook had to suppress something of a cough. He really shouldn't have been surprised. Sébastien wasn't really known for his subtlety. His chuckle came quick, thankfully, and Rook rolled his eyes once again at the Prince.

"I think you mean to say you are well informed about the couples that are on thin ice. I haven't forgotten that representative and his wife. They were close with my parents you know. I caught a lot of grief because of that... incident." Rook smiled. Turning the attention back on Sébastien gave him a moment to ease the embarrassment he was feeling. He took another drink of his ale before speaking again.

"Sali has graced me with the honor of a dance on two occasions." His eyes found hers and he smiled again. "But as for that honor, I remain humble." He had to turn his eyes away from hers then. He found sanctuary in his glass of ale and drank again. It wasn't that the thought had never crossed his mind, but for the whole thing to be brought up so suddenly... well he hadn't been prepared. Again, he shouldn't have been surprised that something like this would happen with Sébastien anywhere nearby. Was he simply reaching at threads that weren't even there just to see what got pulled about? Or had some kind of gossip found its way around the noble circles? Either thought was slightly unsettling.

[Squee]

“Oh. So we’ll say they’re for pretty’s sake then?” Sali smiled, fluttering her voice so Sebastien knew she wasn’t disappointed. Pretty was a good enough answer for her.

She remained quiet and a little distant for the next minutes before their drinks arrived. Her eyes traced the walls in one last, long look while her ears were attuned to the men’s conversation. Then she observed the two delighted men who were obviously enjoying each other’s company. When the drinks did arrive, she rose the glass in the toast. Sali then spent a brief moment swirling the glass in a slow circle near her face, scenting it before tasting. Very good. The glass became bundled in laced hands.

"I am usually quite well informed about royal couples but you both have me completely at a loss. Forgive my crudeness, but when did you two become an item?"

Oh Gods. Sali couldn’t hide the surprise that lifted her eyebrows and widened her eyes. Her lips parted only slightly before Sali consciously pressed them back together. And there was absolutely no stopping the savage blush that engulfed the queen’s face and exposed neck. Predictably, Sali’s gaze turned downward in attempt to… hide. The wine. Yes, the drink. She found time in bringing the fine glass to her lips and filling half her mouth with the delicious drink. A thought immediately followed: Nunya, Sebastien. None of your business. But by wine and will, Sali kept her tongue still for Rook to speak first.

She couldn’t look at Sebastien. It would only renew the suddenness of his question and her blush would be refreshed. Her body shifted more toward Rook and she lifted her face to be polite. She lingered off his words, knowing that she would have to continue by what he said about… them. He spoke of their dances. Yes, their dances. His eyes matched with hers. NO! Rook, no! Oh, why do you have to LOOK at me? The smile spread across her face fast, like a good infection. She was not helping the situation by acting like this!

She wanted a good answer. Wanted to say that she and Rook were… together, but she worried about the security of ears. If word traveled far outside the world she and Rook lived in, it could cause some major strife and would burden her with undesired attention.

Sali could only watch as her thumbs petted the glass. What was there to say? Something that neither proved nor disproved Sebastien’s claim. Was there such a statement to make? Why did this have to be so hard? Her bottom lip rolled against the top out of nervousness. A short, gusted sigh, with a flick of her eyes at Rook, tickles in her stomach. Those dark eyes jumped to Sebastien, a shy smile to be interpreted, and a special guilty spot in her eye. She decided on saying nothing at all.

[Jace]

Rook's comment had once again reminded Sebastien of days long since passed. Sebastien hadn't really changed much since those days but it seemed like Rook had. He could still sense the old Rook lurking about somewhere inside that body which was now considered a king. Tonight would be a perfect opportunity to prove that, especially when he seemed to with a very special woman. Sebastien wasn't cruel, he just liked to have his fun.

Fun was exactly what he was having as studied the embarrassed expressions on his guests' faces. It seemed that they weren't as far along as he had initially believed. They clearly still seemed to be shy about the subject, or at least didn't want others to know about it. He wouldn't have expected the modest response from the old Rook, but once again he was reminded that his old friend as now a King, one who had experienced tremendous loss.

He couldn't blame his friend for the choice he had made. Sali's smile was exquisite, Sebastien had missed a good one. The prince could only shrug and take a nice long swig of his ale. There was no shortage of pretty ladies in the galaxy to keep Sebastien company, he knew that fact all too well.

"Ah, it seems dinner is ready" stated Sebastien as multiple waiters came in with various trays.

They placed numerous plates in front of the trio, and unveiled them immediately after. Sebastien didn't really have to tell the cooks what to make anymore. He entertained more than enough guests for them to know much better than he did about what to serve. The prince polished off his drink as he decided what to sample first. He would let his guests decide what they wanted from the numerous options available to them.

"So Sali, I take it Rook has never told you how we first met?"

A mischievous little grin crossed his face as he turned to Rook.

"Rook, do tell her about the Hydian Princess"

[Meira]

The awkward moment eased slightly when servants brought fourth the evening's meal. Rook leaned back in his chair and watched as the various dishes were presented. He selected a small amount of each. It was a diplomatic gesture, not necessary here among close friends, but one that had become habit since Rook assumed the throne. Luckily, it seemed, this time the choice to sample all the dishes was a good one. The food smelled delicious.

"So Sali, I take it Rook has never told you how we first met? Rook, do tell her about the Hydian Princess"

Rook had just taken a bite of food when Sébastien voiced his request. He furrowed his brow at the Prince as he chewed. Could he not let him have a few bites to eat before pulling his next little stunt? Inwardly, Rook sighed as he swallowed, then took the last sip of his ale before giving in. He chuckled lightly as he began to speak. Perhaps it was the drink, or perhaps the mischief that Sébastien seemed to pull out of him.

"Well, she was beautiful. Wasn't she, Seb?" His smile widened as he looked at his old friend. He then turned his eyes to Sali. "But unforgiving. Sébastien and I lost quite a sum of credits because of her. It was... what, three years ago?" He asked, turning back to Sébastien for confirmation.

"Our esteemed parents, in their infinite wisdom, had both independently decided that sending their overzealous sons in their stead to attend the maiden voyage of a super luxury cruise liner. Needless to say, we were both dreadfully bored the entire trip and nothing of note happened the whole time."

Rook finished his statement, barely able to speak through the smile that had overtaken his features. It had been such a good trip. But it had also been a different time. Sébastien brought back that youthful bravado in him, they'd taken it for granted then. But the part of him that had to mature in recent history made his head shake at the memory of their follies. It had been such a good time. And it had been one of the last of his "good times"... before everything changed.

Realizing his mind had wandered, Rook quickly lifted his fork again to sample more of his meal. The action gave him something else to think about, and the food was a good excuse to keep his mouth closed.

[Squee]

The amount of time passing was… incalculable as Sali sat with discomfort enfolding her and the embarrassment stubbornly lingering on her cheeks. She also did not know whether to take the smile from her face. Or if a drink more from her wineglass was too suspicious. Suspicious of WHAT, anyway, since this little sneaky… prince-friend of Rook’s apparently already knew of her and Rook. Should she excuse herself, if only for a moment? Was it better to remain here and resume attempts to control… this? For Force’s sake, was she angry or was she simply irritated? Scared? Who else might know?

Calm down. Just calm down. I’m a queen. I have mastery of my outward emotions. I need to relax. Enjoy the meal. And another drink. Her wineglass was empty. Sali looked up at the servants, caught the gaze of one, and slid her glass hand toward him to come and fill. Turn off defense mechanism. So foolish… With one large breath, Sali recomposed, and it started by relaxing her shoulders. There was no reason to be so worked up.

She chewed on her a piece of food slowly, half the reason the savor the flavor. It was quite delicious, unlike that one thing she’d gotten. It sat off to one side of the plate, a reminder she had to eat the tiny portion for she had picked it up. She assumed it was some sort of vegetable thing. It wouldn’t surprise her.

“No. No he hasn’t.” Sali chose that moment to look back at Rook, confident now that she wouldn’t blush. She kept the worry crease from her brow, the look that would’ve questioned his feelings. What a worrying toad, she was! Maybe he didn’t think it was such a big deal? Did he secretly like Sebastien knowing? Perhaps that was it. Maybe. Hopefully not.

The queen took another sip of wine as she listened to Rook explain the wholesome decision of parents to let their sons take a cruise… all by themselves. If there was one thing Sali had taken from her gossip time with noble women it was never to send two boys out by themselves. They always came back covered in something, be it mud and flowers or a misleading lop-sided grin. She pushed her fork absently against her food, only to realize upon glance that she’d put it right into the nasty vegetable whatever-it-was. To stall eating a section of it, Sali spoke up, “The last time I took a cruise liner I was fifteen. I remember the glowing lures in the noble boys’ eyes that drew attention away from me.” Sali smiled largely. “However, I did think I was the prettiest thing that had ever walked the galaxy then.” A small laugh. “And there were shiny things that attracted me like a hypnotized fish. Lots of glitter. I can only imagine what the sparkles were like on a brand new liner. “

[Jace]

Sebastien downed the last of his ale as he waited for Rook to answer his question. He motioned for one of the waiters to provide him with a refill, no doubt there would be many more before this night was over. He may have been a carefree prince, but Rook was his friend, and seeing that mischievous grin back on his face was reassuring. What was even more reassuring was the way Rook had decided to approach the story. His vague approach would hopefully throw Sali into a certain train of thought.

"Oh yes, quite beautiful indeed, and I do believe it was three years ago"

He was met with disappointment though as Rook continued with his explanation. Well so much for that mused the young prince. Sebastien wasn't too worried though, there was ample opportunity remaining in the night to mess around with the couple. The Hydian Princess did bring back good memories though, it was one of his more interesting excursions. The luxury liner was exquisite, even for someone so accustomed to the finest life had to offer. It felt like such a long time ago though, much had happened in three years.

"Indeed, a terribly boring trip" stated Sebastien, the sarcasm in his voice was clear.

The prince turned his attention back to Sali, who was in the process of recovering from one of his previous comments. It was all a game to Sebastien, a game which also provided useful information. Reading and understanding someone's personality can be achieved through a variety of methods, Sebastien's was just a little more on the playful side. Then again, what was fun for him, probably wasn't fun for whoever he was poking fun at. He took a long sip from his newly refilled ale as he listened to what Sali had to say.

"15!" exclaimed Sebastien once she had finished speaking

"My dear, you need to get out more often. Rook, take the lady out or I shall be forced to do so in your stead"

He then focused back on Sali and gave her his most winning smile before stating

"Your highness, I have no doubt that you were the prettiest thing to walk the galaxy back then, and continue to be so even now"

[Meira]

"Yes. It was all very bright and shiny. Colorful...TOO colorful, in fact. I shouldn't like to sail on such a ship again. At least not with that line again."

Rook didn't mention the fact that he and Sébastien had all but been banned from the whole line of ships the Hydian Princess belonged to. They'd not been formally black listed, of course... being roalty and all. But it had been made quite clear to them, and their parents, that they were not encouraged to return. It hardly mattered. Rook certainly didn't have time for luxury cruises these days. And even if he did, there was the royal yacht. It was finely furnished, he'd been told.

"My dear, you need to get out more often." Rook shook his head slightly at Sébastien as he lifted his newly filled glass of ale to his lips.

"Rook, take the lady out or I shall be forced to do so in your stead"

Leaning back for a moment, Rook swallowed and turned his eyes to Sali. His smile was loose, almost lazy as his eyes rolled at his friend's words. He turned back to Sébastien before speaking.

"Now THAT would be a fate worse than death. By my honor as a gentleman, I cannot allow it to come to pass." Of course... the last time Rook had taken Sali somewhere, it had ended with him kissing her and her pulling away. Then he'd gone and acted like a wounded child. It hadn't ended well at all.

But then he went to Onderon...

The meal was winding down. Servants moved forward to collect empty plates. In that comfortable quite that fell between them, Rook took another drink and leaned back in his chair, his stomach and humor quite satisfied. At that moment, a different servant entered the room. Rook recognized the man's face and knew him to be his own man. Sali and Sébastien would know him by the green sash he wore from his left shoulder to the right side of his waist.

The man approached and bowed to the three, then stepped to Rook's side, giving another bow. He presented a datapad, begging Rook's pardon. Rook saw that there was a call waiting on the device. Standing, he bowed his head slightly to his friends.

"Please excuse me for a moment."

Rook stepped away from the table and to the other side of the room. The servant followed. Once at an appropriate distance, Rook activated the call and was met by the face of one of his advisors back home.

"Infinate apologies, Your Majesty, for this interruption. We would not have called were the matter not urgent." Rook nodded, waiting for the man to continue.

"The Republic contract has finally come through. But they are impatient for the buisness to be done. After all the legal back and forth, we simply await your approval. All the changes we discussed in our last meeting have been made and agreed to. The final form of the contract is as you and the Republic agreed. I have sent the file, Your Highness need only sign and return it.'

"Right, thank you."

Rook ended the call and pulled up the contract file. He quickly skimmed, brows furrowed slightly as he squinted at the screen, noting the new sections that had been added and those that seemed to have been removed. He then took a stylus from the side of the data pad, scrawled his signature across the line and handed the device back to his servant.

"Return the file." He said. the man bowed and exited the room as Rook returned to Sali and Sébastien at the table. "Forgive me." he said as he took his seat again. "A matter that could not wait."

[Squee]

Sali’s heart did a little flip upon Sebastien’s outburst, but she recovered and found herself laughing at the prince’s despair. She needed to get out more? “Just because I haven’t been on a cruise for a decade doesn’t mean I don’t get out, my prince!” She laughed again, grinning as Sebastien demanded Rook take her somewhere. Her poor cheeks were beginning to hurt from blushing. But as quickly as she’d begun to pink, it began to slowly die away again.

“Oh? Against some honorable gentleman code?” That was better. She needed to get into this game of teasing. “I didn’t know there was such a thing.” She smirked before returning idle attention to her meal. “But no, I get out sometimes. I like visiting other planets, if I haven’t spoken that with my actions already. It is a reason why I came to Alderaan. I’ve attended many weddings and have been invited to Senator’s Galas. This past year’s was quite eventful, if I do say so.” Sali turned her eyes onto Rook, pointedly. “Perhaps… a little too eventful.

“And do not forget that I have the pleasure of having the Beast Riders living on my pretty Onderon. I take trips into their lands to visit with them and I must admit that I find a certain thrill in riding one of their flying mounts.” Sali laid her fork down at last and sat back comfortably with her wine glass, with a rather satisfied smile resting on her lips. “Does Rook still need to take me somewhere? Or does he still need to rescue me from whatever you have in mind, Sebastien?”

It was merely moments after that a servant came to clear up plates and ignored dishes. The eating segment of dinner was closing, but Sali had her legs crossed delicately and continued to nurse her glass.

When the Corellian servant arrived, Sali gave Rook a curious glance that he did not notice. Then he excused himself and walked a ways off with his servant. It only intensified her curiosity. This type of action was a first in her presence. She turned her attention to Sebastien. “What’s your favorite spot? Do you go to beaches or mountains or jungles, or other fancy palaces? Or do you cruise often? Hm?”

[Jace]

"Rescue you? My dear, whatever are you talking about? Clearly Rook has been poisoning you against me. He always has been jealous of me, yet I concede defeat. You clearly have a more exciting life than I gave you credit for, forgive my assumption"

Just as he had finished apologizing, a man came up to Rook, no doubt with a message. Sebastien merely nodded at his old friend, as much as he hated to admit it, business sometimes came first. By this time, the servants had completely cleared the table with the exception of their respective drinks. The young prince had begun to slow down, it wouldn't do for him to disgrace himself in front of Sali. Though that wasn't to say he hadn't gotten drunk around queens before.

"I simply go where I please" stated Sebastien rather nonchalantly.

"I do not think I could answer your question with any certainty. My favorite place would be that which provides the greatest challenge and thus the greatest entertainment."

In truth, Sebastien wasn't really sure what he wanted from life. He was born into royalty, and he would take full advantage of that fact. The half Echani enjoyed drinking, partying, and other luxuries as much as the next person[if not more] yet there was always something else. Sebastien could never really quite put his finger on it, and thus he found it rather infuriating. As Rook approached, he pushed such thoughts to the back of his mind. The alcohol was starting to make him all philosophical.

"So tell me" started Sebastien as he leaned back comfortably in his chair "What do you both make of this war?"

[Meira]

Sali's comment on the Senator's Gala had won a smile and a nod from Rook. Though he smiled outwardly, the thought had caused an inward frown. Eventful was an overly kind way of putting it. But then again, that was where the two of them had met. It seemed so long ago...

“And do not forget that I have the pleasure of having the Beast Riders living on my pretty Onderon."

That did not win a smile from the king. Rook had only met a handful of Beast Riders while on Onderon. But he had met their leader, a disgraceful man that Rook would have liked to teach a lesson to. The idea of Sali amongst such savage men sent a jealous chill down his spine.

The interruption of his servant, however, had provided Rook a moment to recover and slip back into a more sociable demeanor. His return to the table saw his place empty, spare his glass of ale and his two companions' drinks as well.

"...My favorite place would be that which provides the greatest challenge and thus the greatest entertainment."

"By challenge, he only means a well guarded princess..." Rook interjected with a wry grin.

The conversation seemed to lapse after that, as if the three needed a moment to digest their food in quiet. But Sébastien filled the silence with a question on the war and Rook sat forward to take his glass from the table for another drink as he contemplated his answer.

"These Sith Aristocrats think they've made a statement with their surprise moves on the outer rim. But they've spent their greatest advantage. The Republic will prevail. It always has."

Having the strength of Corellia's shipyards at its back would see to that. Rook didn't say it, but this is what he was thinking. Corellia had been a founding member of the Republic, one of its strongest supporters since its inception. That wasn't about to change now.

[Squee]

Rook’s comment about well-guarded princesses made Sali giggle unexpectedly. She couldn’t quite place why it had tickled her funny vibe, but it had. A content smile stayed on the queen’s lips as she remained sat back comfortably. She still actively took tiny sips from her wineglass. She had consumed quite a bit tonight, she reflected suddenly. Her sips soon became a little less frequent and Sali became satisfied with just petting the glass with her thumbs or running her finger over the edge. Take your time with the wine. What would the guards and servants of Alderaan think of the ruler of Onderon if she leaves thoroughly intoxicated? Nothing good, that’s what.

Then Sebastien asked about… “The war?” Sali blinked a couple of times, for some reason failing to recognize the question momentarily. She was sort of surprised by the question as well. Her opinion on the war? That relaxed smile vanished from her face as she looked from Sebastien to Rook to her knee. Did he have to bring up such an unhappy subject?

Luckily, Rook answered before she felt obligated to continue with the conversation. Rook’s answer was very patriotic, condemning the Sith encroaching upon Republic space to a predictable end based on history. Sali’s thoughts and feelings hesitated with doubt and fear. She wanted to believe that also, and that the end would be delivered swiftly. However, she worried about certain factors. How long would it be until the Sith were once again eliminated? Would they even be eliminated or just banished, to regroup and rebuild, and then come back once more to haunt her future generations? If you have any future generations. You’re not exactly on the right track.

It was quiet after Rook’s confident reply. When she looked up, her face was very solemn. “I disapprove of the war. I disapprove of the Sith more. Neither are good things. Both trouble me. But the Sith are the greater evil. I just hope their fingers don’t reach far into Republic, though. It… I do not want to see my planet’s history repeated.”

Which is exactly why my people are going to avoid being a part of the war as much as possible.