Private I Have a Bad Feeling About This

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Lori knew that her aunt Rowena Arenais was up to something the moment that the message came through that she was to meet with her on Mnemosyne at her estate. The last time that she had seen the woman was at her wedding when it was attacked. That event in itself foreshadowed what was to come, for her marriage lasted but a few months before her husband was gone.

Still, she had enemies, despite her lack of activity among the Eclipse Rebellion now that she was no longer the Face of it. She stepped away from that when it was clear that most of it's newest membership had zero confidence in her. But it wasn't as though Lori was ever the leader. She was just the public face of it, the co-founder and open target while the true leaders worked in secret.

Even still, she arrived at her aunt's estate in her Rebel Ops armour, armed with the Hornet and a blaster. It was better safe than sorry if this was some trap by the Eternal Empire or any of their allies.

She was greeted by The Butler and escorted inside the lavish building to a sitting room where Rowena Arenais was waiting with a glass of wine. It was the Butler that spoke up first. "Her Highness Queen Loreena.." It was obvious that there was disdain in his voice.

Rowena offered a polite smile, yet her eyes criticized her niece's chosen attire. "Welcome home. You look as though you are prepared for war. Wouldn't you rather change into something more comfortable for lunch?"

A bad feeling hung in Lori's stomach and she couldn't shake it. "I am comfortable. You can't blame me after my last visit to Mnemosyne."

Rowena laughed a little as she shook her head, dismissing the memory. "You needn't worry about that. Your arrival is secret. Trust me. Well, except for our guests that should be arriving shortly."

"Guests? Who's coming here? You know that there are warrants out there for me..."

"Oh pish posh! Do you think that I'd just lure you here to be arrested and taken away? What kind of aunt do you take me for?"

"I don't know yet....We barely know eachother..."

"I know more about you than you think. Now come and sit down. You want to come out from the shadows of your parents and your brother, right?"

Lori furrowed her brows as she walked over to one of the plush chairs and sat herself down slowly, removing her bow and quiver, yet keeping them well in reach. Her eyes remained fully on her aunt. "Yes....."

"Well this will be your opportunity to do so."

Heath Valhoun Rex Valhoun

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 1
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

Rex took a deep breath as the ship approached Mnemosyne. He was sitting on the bench, across from him was Heath Valhoun, his "father." He had already been told why he was here and he didn't like it, but he owed Heath. First, Heath saved him from the wilderness. Then the man taught him to be a functional human in the galaxy. But it didn't stop there....Heath had set Rex up for success, he would inherit an ever-growing Empire. These weren't gifts given lightly. Obviously Heath trusted Rex, and saw something in him that Rex himself didn't know yet.

But to force him to marry someone...it was just wrong. He wasn't like the animals he fought in The Wilderness that mindlessly mated. He found it impossible that this girl would be the right one. But it was politics, and if he wanted to keep his guaranteed rise to power, he had to go along with this scheme. He could only make the best out of a tough situation, and hope for better.

"We're nearly there, son. Before we land I want you to know I've done everything I can to make this comfortable for you. And listen, if things are truly unbearable....well....." Heath trailed off for a moment, then resumed "...I can't pass this up, but I will make it up to you."

Rex simply nodded. Heath cared, it was undeniable, but he could never put Rex before The Empire. Rex would always be second. In 7 years he had come to learn that harsh truth. He was certainly better off here, being forced to marry a noble, and likely pretty girl, than he was back in the wilderness. That's what he always told himself when he did things like this, though today would truly test his limits.

He was out of time, the ship was landing. He rose to his feet, making sure he was presentable and mentally preparing himself for the evets to come....​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

"And how is that?"

"Oh I've worked out a little arrangement that you'd be a fool to pass up."

Lori raised a brow, tilting her head to the side as she looked to her aunt with a hint of mistrust. "An arrangement with who?...Just what are you proposing?"

"Proposing? It's funny how that word came to your mind." Rowena sipped her wine. "During the course of all of your troublemaking, have you come across the Elysium Empire?"

"Huh? No. I've just been focused on the Eternal Empire. And it's not troublemaking, it's saving people from oppression."

Once again Rowena waved her hand in dismissal. "That's not your job anymore. Look at what it's gotten you? Arrest warrants, kill orders, your wedding attacked with multiple deaths and now you are widowed. Don't you think that you've walked the wrong path long enough? Here is your chance to take your rightful place and expand your horizons."

Just how her aunt knew about her being widowed was anyone's guess. Lori hadn't told anyone yet, not even her brother. But the woman was clearly resourceful. "What arrangement did you make?"

"With your parents gone, your uncle and I are your next of kin and so it is our duty to look out for you two. Your brother is not in the best position to further the legacy if our family, but you are. The King of the Elysium Empire has a son about your age. We have arranged for you two to wed for the benefits of both families."

"What?! You can't do that!--"

Before Liri could argue anymore, Rowena interupted with a stern look despite her polite tone in her voice. "I very well can. It is your Royal duty to secure prosperity for your people, and everything that you've done while running around with those Rebels of yours is the exact opposite. How many more will die because of your stubborness to fulfill your duties? It's time to grow up Lori and stop being a child!"

Lori clenched her jaw, turning her gaze away as she grew silent. She was always regarded as a kid, despite her age and despite all of her heroics. Nothing that she had done could shake that. Maybe this time it'd be different. If she decided to go through with it, that is.

Rowena took her silence as an agreement, just as the Butler approached and whispered into her ear about the incoming arrival of Rex Valhoun and the King. She smiled as the Butler headed off to greet them, drawing her attention back to her niece. "Wonderful. They are here. No time for you to change so, we'll just have to make due for now. This won't be the best first impression for you to make, but there are worse. At least you're somewhat...presentable. Let's keep that behaviour in check, shall we? You are a Queen afterall. It's time to act like it."

Lori got to her feet as her aunt did, leaving her weapons alone for the moment. All the while her mind was reeling as she tried to work out ways of turning this marriage down. Surely she could find some way out of it....

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 1
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

The ramp descended revealing the estate, familiar to Heath but completely new to Rex. Rex had seen some big places in his travels, but none were quite as nice as this. Of course, it was a cultural thing, The Hutts he had met were wealthy but their palaces resembled simple casinos, full of drugs, smoke, and other things. Heath took the lead, Rex followed closely as usual. He couldn't lie, he was a bit nervous. What if the girl wanted nothing to do with this? Would she make this experience a nightmare? Or what if she was more serious than he? Would he have to play the part even more, for the rest of his life?

Ahead of the duo it looked like a welcoming party was preparing to greet them. How nice. Rex thought sarcastically. He really did hate the pleasantries. That being said, he knew how to fake a smile, and play the game of politics.

But he couldn't play it forever. That's why he needed this girl to be similar to him, in some way at least...​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Rowena, Lori and the house staff waited for Heath and Rex Valhoun to exit their shuttle. No doubt Lori looked like a bodyguard instead of a young Queen, but she hadn't expected any of this.

"Welcome back. I trust your journey was smooth? And this must be your son. I must say he is a strapping young fellow." Rowena stepped forward while she spoke, greeting the pair with well practiced smiles. "I'd like to introduce my niece, Her Royal Highness Loreena Arenais." There was no need to point out the armour just yet or just why she wasn't dressed properly. That'll come in time.

Lori just stared from Heath to Rex for a moment or two, studying the two of them. Neither looked familiar to her which was probably a good thing.

"Let's step inside, shall we? Refreshments are being prepared before we have our lunch." Rowena gestured for them to folliw as staff was already heading inside to leave the Royal party to their visit.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 2
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

Heath and Rex were practically opposites, but when the woman dressed in combat gear was introduced as the niece...the very one Rex was supposed to marry, both men couldn't contain their stare. To say it was unexpected would be a massive understatement. Fortunetely for the men, Loreena was also offering only a stare. Rex snapped out of his surprise first, offering a quick bow of respect. Heath followed.

While Rex wondered what was going on, Heath was pleased. Rowena had hinted that her niece was similar to Rex, but he never really knew how similar. If she was wearing a combat outfit to this event, she was a more extreme version of the boy. They'd get along nicely.

Rex considered saying something, but before he had the chance Rowena invited them inside for refreshments. It was probably good that Rowena had stopped him as he likely would have said something stupid. Of course, everything sounded stupid when one was trying to sound professional. At least that's what Rex thought every time he spoke....​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Loreena bowed her head a little in response to Rex Valhoun and Heath, however she didn't immediately follow her aunt. Instead she took up the rear.

Her jaw was slightly clenched as they walked inside, mulling over just what she was supposed to say. This was not her area of expertise. Everyone in her family dead and alive were far better at it than she was. Her recent meetings with the Eclipse Rebellion and others proved that point.

And now here she was, following in behind her husband-to-be. She had no information on him at all, nothing other than his appearance. She had no idea what his personality was like or if they'd even get along. But it wasn't as though she had agreed to all of this anyways. As far as she was concerned, she could still say no.

The refreshments were just set down in the sitting room by the time that they had all arrived. The sun shone brightly in the room, bringing another pleased smile to Rowena's face before she poured herself a fresh glass of wine as well as some bits of cheese, crackers and meat. "My dears you are as silent as though you were attending a funeral, when this is a happy occasion. Do say hello to eachother or something, please." She tilted her head as she stared at her niece. Lori was known to just spill unending questions whenever she was excited about something, yet this seemed to have the opposite effect.

The young Rebel Queen cleared her throat a little after sitting down on one of the comfy chairs. "I'm just in a bit of shock right now. Sorry. I wasn't expecting this when I was summoned home." She was expecting a trap. Yet in some ways, that was exactly what this was.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 3
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

Heath and Rex sat down on a couch, Rex grabbing a glass of wine before doing so. He was much more comfortable with a drink in his hand when he was in a conversation. It wasn't the alcohol, but the comfort of being able to take a sip or refill it rather than staring at whomever he was conversing with. Though today he may rely on the alcohol bit a little more than usual...

Rowena tried to break the silence between Rex and her niece, which likely embarrassed the later of the two. It certainly would have flustered him if he had been in her shoes. He tried to give a sympathetic smile as Loreena spoke for the first time since his arrival. Apparently she had been taken completely off guard by the whole thing. That was surprising to Rex, who learnt about the marriage several days ahead of time. What kind of aunt throws such a thing on their niece without warning?

Heath noticed this revelation as well. It troubled him. He assumed Rowena would have told Loreena ahead of time. It worried him because it could be a sign of her true colors. Would she treat him this way? One day they're allies, the next day she throws him under the bus? Maybe The King was just paranoid. He would rely on Rex to relay any information from Loreena that may be important. Until then he would forget about it.

Rex quickly found the right words for a reply, trying to keep it more formal since he was being watched by Heath and Rowena, "You're alright, I would be a bit lost for words if I was thrown into this as well." He offered another small smile, hoping he had said the right thing as he waited for her or someone else to speak...​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Rowena was quite sure that if she had told Lori ahead of time, her niece wouldn't of showed up. There was certain ways to treat certain people and she knew just how to handle her. "Arranged marriages can be....unsettling at first. But trust me, you both will make it work." She didn't tell Lori to eat or drink. There was already enough that she was being told to do. For now she didn't push things too much, lest it all backfire on her.

Lori studied Rex Valhoun while he spoke. He seemed sympathetic, but she wasn't sure if it was genuine. But then again, he was being forced into this as much as she was. "Thank you...." So many questions ran through her mind, but she didn't want to ask them in front of either of their elders. Some things were better left in private, and no doubt her aunt had a scheme for that too.

"So....the Elysium Empire...what's it like?" The question arose to either of them to answer, yet she kept most of her gaze on Rex. Lori was a rebellious sort, more recently against tyrannical regimes, and by the Force she hoped that she wasn't going to be married into one.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 4
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

The King opened his mouth to speak, but quickly shut it. He wanted to see how Rex answered the question. Besides, it was an excellent way to get the two talking. So instead of speaking, Heath pretended to take interest in the food, finding the little orange candies that had been there last time. Man they were good.

Rex saw the opportunity to impress Heath, and begin to ease the stressful group up a bit. He assumed everyone here was interested in politics. Obviously Heath was, and thus Rex was, but he wasn't sure about Rowena or Loreena. He'd find out.

"The Elysium Empire is a Monarchy led by my father. However if you were to compare it to any nation you'd have difficulties because we follow an ideology that mixes the best from several groups, namely The Galactic Empire and The Rebellion." He hoped she knew about the Galactic Empire and Rebel Alliance. They were ancient, many didn't know about them. He decided to add on a quick compairison, though he feared she would take offense if she did know about the ancient nations. It was a 50-50 gamble. "If you are unaware of what those two ancient factions were, The Galactic Empire was similar to The Sith Empire, and The Rebel Alliance was a rag-tag group that fought The Empire, with beliefs similar to The Galactic Alliance of today."

While he wasn't anti-social, he had talked longer than he was comfortable with. He decided to stop. He could explain the rest in a moment, preferably if they got a chance alone where he didn't have to worry about Heath breathing down his neck.

Except he wasn't going to get the chance to. The King intervened, "Rex, you must give her more details." Then he turned to Loreena and explained "While I am the King, there is a council that advises me and can, in extreme situations, limit my authority. There's also a Senate that anyone can join. They mostly just help me judge the peoples' will, and suggest laws. Our beliefs take the best of those nations Rex mentioned, and leave out the flaws that led to their eventual fall. For example, The Empire exterminated The Jedi. My Empire has a live and let live policy regarding them. The Empire was known for its' military, so I allocate a large amount of our funds to the military."

"Father, I was getting to that part. I wanted to give her time to take it all in and ask questions before explaining in more detail..." Rex protested, giving a fake smile this time to hide his embarrassment and anger as he hoped for Rowena or Loreena to say something to take the spotlight off him.

​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

It was Rex Valhoun that had answered first. Lori listened to his answer, nodding just a little, her jaw tightening at the mention of the Sith Empire. They had attacked and lay siege to her homeworld of Commenor when she was a teen. They held her Mom hostage, tried to execute her Dad, and tried to capture both herself and her twin brother. They killed over 8 million people in Munto City by obliterating it from above by a turbolaser from a Super Star Destroyer. The siege lasted for months before the world could be liberated. Everything went downhill from there for her and her family.

Even now they were still trying to pick up the pieces. Although at this point in time, Lori didn't really care. She wanted to forge her own path, yet as her aunt had pointed out, that wasn't exactly working in her favour.

Heath spoke up next, and so she listened to him carefully, for he had more knowledge of the Elysium Empire than anyone else here.

Thank the Force there seemed to be checks and balances when it came to his power. That was a good thing. A lack of that is what breeds tyrants, for as they say; absolute power corrupts absolutely.

"And what of any....agreements with the Eternal Empire? Do you have any? They have warrants out for my arrest, you know, even kill orders for daring to show the truth of their warcrimes and fight against their oppression. I used to be the Face of the Eclipse Rebellion, but I had recently....stepped away from that. In any event, surely that could pose a problem?"

"Loreena, you have retired from that life. Over time they'll forget all about you. And if not, I'm sure that some arrangement could be made."

Lori smirked at her aunt's response. What arrangement could be made? She was already being pushed into marrying Rex, so it wasn't as though she could marry someone else too. So there had to be something else that her aunt was cooking up. That is unless the Elysium Empire wasn't in league with the Eternal Empire at all. That would certainly be a bonus.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 5
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

This time Heath spoke first, giving Rex no chance to respond to Loreena. On the bright side of things, the girl didn't seem confused, nor insulted by Rex's explanation.

"We are neutral at best regarding The Eternal Empire. At worst, we see them as another Imperial splinter faction in our way. Their system is obviously broken, they are surrounded by corruption, rebellions, and pirates as I understand it."

That was the extent of Heath's knowledge regarding the Eternal Empire. The Elysium Empire didn't have the resources to know everything about everyone. They focused on The CIS, The Bryn, and The First Order. The rest would be handled later on. That being said, The Eternal Empire was a rising problem, easily as powerful as The First Order, but more distant.

This lack of knowledge is why Heath was surprised that Loreena was once the face of The Eclipse Rebellion. That was quite a job, high profile and stressful. He wondered why she had left. Regardless, it was no problem and he wanted her to know that.

"Your previous involvement will not be an issue, you have my word."

Rex listened to his father, nodding in agreement at the end. The Elysium Empire had many enemies due to his father's speech, where he all but declared war on several major nations. One had been The Outer Planetary Alliance, which had collapsed. Another was the CIS, which appeared to be stronger than ever.

The marriage wouldn't make her any safer. Maybe it would from The Eternal Empire, but it would introduce new enemies. It was unfortunate, but it was one of the strings attached to this whole marriage thing.

With nothing left to add to the conversation, both men awaited the ladies' replies.

​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Lori studied Heath while he spoke, nodding in his responses. At least it didn't seem as though this was all some scheme to reign her in. If anything she could be helpful to them and their Empire. But that was if what was said could be believed. There had to be some kind of catch, some kind of intregal plot going on. There was no other reason for this sudden arrangement.

"I think that's about all that I can think of that could pose a problem for the moment." Her eyes then fell to Rex. "Shall we go for a walk?" She needed to know who this man really was and vice versa. She needed to know a lot of things before she could accept what was being out in front of her. Getting away from prying eyes was the best way to do it. There'd be less pretending that way. The two needed to be real with eachother, otherwise nothing would work out with them or their nations.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 6
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

Rex took no time at all to reply to Loreena's invitation, "Certainly." It would be nice to speak to her without four eyes and ears observing their every move. A walk would give them the desperately needed time to get to know each other. Hopefully whatever conversation they may have would make this arrangement easier for both of them to accept. He'd be uncomfortable at first, but once they started talking he was confident that he would relax. That's how it always went, every conversation started off tense and ended with him becoming comfortable.

He rose to his feet, giving a nod to Heath and Rowena once up. Standing, he waited for Loreena to get up as he didn't know the layout of the building. He would follow her lead once she was up.

----------------​

Heath remained sitting, gladly allowing Rex to get some time to know Loreena. He was certain that the boy would represent The Empire well, and he was hopeful that the boy could help convince Loreena into the marriage. Furthermore, Heath was happy he'd have a moment with Rowena. There were still things to discuss, for example he wanted to know how she expected her niece to decide by the end of the day.

​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Lori nodded. At least Rex Valhoun was agreeable right off the bat. She got to her feet, not really looking at her aunt or Heath as she led him out of the sitting room and back the way that they came to the front door. She didn't know the building either and at least outside there was fresh air.

It wasn't until they were outside that she started to speak. "I'm sorry that my aunt and your Dad are putting us through this. I'd like to hope that my aunt means well, but I didn't ask for this. What have you been told about me? You can ask me whatever you want. I can't imagine that you approve of this too...."


Meanwhile Rowena watched the pair walk off, before sipping her wine. Her twinkling eyes then turned to Heath. "Well that's certainly a good sign, isn't it?" Of course it was, she knew that it was. There was no yelling as of yet. There was no running away either. Just a discussion. And that was far better than what could have happened.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Rex internally let go of a huge sigh. It was a major relief to not be watched and, likely, evaluated every time he spoke. It appeared that Loreena was also relieved as she gave him little time to observe the surrounding area's beauty before completely unloading a flurry of statements and inquisitions.

The first thing she did was apologize. The apology made Rex feel bad, the arrangement wasn't her fault, and he knew about it ahead of time while she didn't. However it wasn't his fault either, and he couldn't do anything to change it.

Then she essentially stated that she didn't know if Rowena meant well, but assumed she did even though the arrangement was unwanted. This was important in several ways. First it proved that Loreena didn't want to get married..at least not like this. Rex understood, and agreed, but it was a problem. He knew The Elysium Empire needed this to happen. Secondly it revealed that Rowena could be up to no good. He'd be sure to tell that information to his father.

The third thing Loreena said was a question: What had he been told about her? This question was followed by her stating it was okay for him to ask anything he wanted. Truthfully he had many questions and had only been told a little about her. However he'd only ask a few for now. If they were to get married, he'd have plenty of time to ask questions and get to know her. Before he asked anything, Loreena made the logical assumption that he also disapproved the marriage. She was correct.

"Easy, easy.." He said with a chuckle, hoping to slow her down a bit and allow a moment before he got into the serious questions and statements. "...So, first of all, You are correct. I am not very happy that my father has thrown us into this situation, however I know it is important not just to him, but to The Elysium Empire. I am confident that your aunt would not make the deal if it didn't benefit your family...so hopefully this is a win-win situation for our families, at least.

I...was not told much about you. My father said you are similar to me, but I didn't take his word for it. I prefer to judge people from their actions, personally, not from someone else. I have many questions but I will refrain from most of them, I'm sure we will have time to get to know each other more later.

I guess my biggest question is What questions do you have for me?"

He would ask his own later. It wasn't a lack of interest in her, but rather he wanted her to be informed. He knew the essentials...or at least what Heath thought the essentials were. Loreena on the other hand knew nothing. She deserved to have her questions answered.

He added one last statement before she responded, "I also am sorry that you were surprised by the announcement. I take it that is why you are dressed as you are?" He motioned with his hand, using this time to get a better look at her. She looked like the type that knew how to fight, how to survive, a strong girl, but she was also beautiful. Maybe it was his stress, or the lighting, but he hadn't noticed it before. It wasn't the most important asset that she possesed, but it was certainly a nice addition to the deal, for Rex at least. He hoped he was, at the least, not ugly. It wouldn't be fair for him to get an attractive woman if she was getting someone unattractive to her. He thought he was a an average-looking man but in truth he was a poor judge, he had brushed off compliments before, seeing only what his mind told him.

He shut out these thoughts. The last thing he needed was to be worried about his appearance during an already-awkward conversation. Instead, he focused on coming up with some important questions while he waited for Loreena to reply.

-----------------------------------
​

"It is indeed." Heath said, grinning as he imagined what the two were discussing outside. Were they planning an escape? Maybe they were already gone. Perhaps they were insulting Rowena and Heath himself? Heck, as far as he knew the two were making out. That thought was enough to turn his grin into an all-out laugh that he failed to restrain.....

​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Well at least they could talk to eachother. Rex Valhoun was courteous and gave the impression that he wasn't going to strongarm her into anything. At least not yet. Although they were being forced into this, at the very least it seemed as though they had some choice in it all. Which was good. Lori was a defiant one, yet there were some that she listened to regardless; and that was family. No doubt her twin brother would be against it all, but both Rowena and Rex were making it clear that it was a decision made for the benefit of their families and the people they ruled over.

Having someone else in her corner, even against the Eternal Empire and Sith weren't a bad thing. Turning this down would be turning away allies; which would really be selfish of her to do.

"Yes, it will certainly benefit the family....My aunt's stake in this is small. Her daughter is already marrying a King, so it isn't as though she has anything to gain outside of politucs and more royal bloodlines added to the lineage." At least that's as far as she could tell, anyways.

Before she was about to ask questions of her own about him, Rex had pointed out her armour. Lori couldn't help but look a little embarrassed, which she tried to hide by tucking her hair behind her right ear. "I didn't know that I was seeing anyone other than my aunt. The last time that I was on Mnemosyne was in my theme park, at my wedding, which was attacked and bombed by those serving the Eternal Empire. So I came here prepared, just in case. And yes, you heard it right. I was married. But widowed after just a couple of months. He fought against the Sith and lost....I will change for the meal though, into something more appropriate."

Lori's eyes scanned the skies as she searched for her questions to ask him. Normally she'd think of them easily, yet his kind behaviour had caught her off guard. Most treated her like a kid that knew very little. "Where did you grow up? Where did you study? Can you pilot a ship? Can you fight? What training do you have? Are you a Force user? Can you cook? Do you drink a lot?" The questions just rolled out after the first one and she had to stop herself.



Rowena looked to Heath as he started to chuckle and laugh. She was quite pleased with herself for playing matchmaker on this one. She lifted her glass; "I think that we should celebrate for a job well done, don't you?"

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Rex listened as Loreena explained that Rowena wasn't going to benefit much from the arrangement. Then she gave the reason for her apparel, which led to her describing how she was married before, and the Sith had widowed her. Rex saw opportunity here to mention his father's declaration of war against The Sith Empire and The Brotherhood of The Maw. He'd mention it when she was done talking.

Finally, Loreena came up with some questions. By now Rex was beginning to ease up. He would start to be himself more, and his answers would be quicker, with less "political speak" in them. He wouldn't use a massive vocabulary, and there would be no lies in his words.

Or so he thought.

But Loreena's inquisition about where he grew up was unexpected. He wasn't supposed to tell anyone how he was in the unknown regions, alone, fending for himself with no knowledge of civilization. Thus her surprise question created a dilemma for Rex. He would ignore it, hopefully she would forget about it, but if not he would have to make a choice.

"I studied in The Elysium Empire...currently just a fleet that travels wherever it needs. I learnt the basics of being a noble...hopefully it has paid off so far. I can pilot a ship but I'm far from experienced in the matter. I can fight. If you'd like, we can spar some time." He offered a genuine smile at this offer, imagining sparring with someone he was supposed to marry. In reality, it could be a great way to break the ice between the two even more than this conversation. He paused from answering her questions to joke, "Imagine Heath and your aunt's faces if they came out and saw us sparring." He laughed, then returnd to the questions, "Anyways...I don't think I'm a Force User, but hey, who knows? I can cook Blue Milk Pancakes, but that's the extent of my abilities there. Drinking...I have a beverage or two every day but it isn't a problem."

---------------
​

Heath nodded as Rowena suggested they celebrate, replying, "Indeed, what do you have in mind?"

​

 

[Loreena Arenais-Valhoun]

Lori tilted her head to the side a little in thought. "The Elysium Empire is just...fleets of ships?" It wasn't the first time that she had heard of such a thing. Jaster Awaud had a fleet carrying a whole civilization as well, one that even she wasn't to know the location of because of her enemies that could follow. "I live on my ship too, so I'm used to travelling a lot."

At the idea that Rex Valhoun had for the two of them sparring, she couldn't help but give a chuckle herself. "That would be funny. We could pretend to be at eachother's throats and then...." And then what? Lori was used to pranking people, yet for this moment, she couldn't quite come up with a punchline or an appropriate ending. Maybe she'd think of something later.

"I'm a Force User, but I'm no Master at it, nor do I use it a lot. I can make balls of Light, I can push things or make some kind of invisible wall to try to stop anyone from hitting me, but that's about it. I'm not like my parents or my twin brother. They are the powerful ones. That's not going to pose a problem, is it?"




"Some champagne, a toast. What would you like for the lunch? Or how about a special dessert?" Rowena would rather have a huge party, but they had agreed to keeping things minimal for the time being. It garnered less attention, which meant less risk of an attack.

 

[Rex Valhoun]

Post: 9
Tag: Loreena Arenais-Valhoun

Rex nodded, "Yes. We have...well, I shouldn't tell you but since we are going to be married, I guess I may as well....we have a few bases on planets like Dagobah, but we are too spread out to capture and hold a planet. We tried to take the Diamond Mine from The Agents of Chaos. Technically we pushed them out and raided the place but we couldn't beat back a counter attack so we are still a fleet, moving as the need arises."

He felt some guilt at revealing that they had bases but it faded quickly. He felt like he could trust Loreena. She was in the same situation he was in and she hadn't really hid anything as far as he could tell. He hoped he was making the correct judgement.

He then wondered why she trailed off when talking about the prank. It was as if she thought of something that distracted her, maybe even saddening her just enough to make her change the subject to talk about The Force. She was capable of wielding it, but in her own words she was no master. She wanted to know if it would be a problem.

Rex quickly shook his head no, explaining, "We don't care if you practice The Force. We watch sect carefully...like The Jedi, but the only ones we are kicking out are The Sith. By the way, you may be happy to know we are at war with them for their actions at Csilla. Maybe we can help you avenge your husband..."

It felt strange saying the words "your husband" knowing that soon he was going to be taking that position. Truthfully he didn't feel ready. He was still young, and he had only been in society for 7 years. It was amazing that he spoke near-perfect Basic, and knew what he knew. He had never really "lived". he was always learning, acting, and obeying. He felt that he was starting to open up and now this marriage would essentially chain him down again. His smile faded at the thought.

He didn't know where to go from there, so he simply waited for Loreena to talk again....

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"Ah, well, I have no requests and this is your place not mine. Why don't you pick and I'll be surprised." Heath smiled, mentally taking guesses at what Rowena may come up with....

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