The conversations that continued around the table were rather basic, nothing really inflammatory was said and I couldn't help but feel relieved that I was allowed to eat without having to uphold a conversation. I was starting to feel the tug of weariness from the long hours I had been pulling over the last week and I found myself having to blink rapidly a few times to keep myself from becoming visually tired. Standing, we began to migrate.

I was led by the group to another room where there were couches and comfy chairs. I hesitated, unsure of where to sit, until Rtas gestured me over to sit on the couch with him. The other chairs and couches were positioned in a sort of circle and Thel quickly took the seat beside where I'd be sitting on the couch. I felt the Chief stiffen behind me, but he graciously and silently took the seat beside Thel as I sat down. The sofa was huge and I felt rather foolish trying to keep my legs dangling and recline at the same time. Scowling, I pulled myself up, curling my legs to my side and beneath me and reclined into the corner, rather comfortable.

Moments after we had all been seated, our waiters came in with drinks. I noticed instantly that all they offered was alcoholic drinks and I bit my lip as one of them asked what I'd like.

"Do you have something without alcohol?" I asked quietly and he looked taken aback.

"Well... um... I- I can go and check." Before I could do anything, he left and I was left there, sitting awkwardly as the others sipped their drinks.

"Are you not thirsty?" Rtas asked and I jumped slightly.

"No, no, it's just that I don't drink intoxicating beverages." He raised an eyebrow.

"Why not?" I blushed and looked down, away from his searching eyes.

"A few reasons." I could feel him staring at me but it was Thel that spoke.

"Do you mind if I ask the reasons?" He asked and I looked up into his eyes. His entire body was turned towards me and I knew he wanted to know.

"Do you mind if I ask why this is such a big deal?" I asked back quietly and he almost looked appalled.

"Ms. Nox, intoxicating beverages are an integral part of their culture. It is customary for them to drink it at least once a day except during times of war." Master Chief spoke up and I instantly felt bad.

"I'm sorry, I didn't know that. To answer your question, I have two personal reasons which I will not explain but one that I will. I will not do several things—including drink—until after I am married. I hope you don't find it insulting that I do not drink tonight, but I must keep my promise to myself." I said quietly, my eyes drifting back down to my lap.

"I should be the one apologizing; I did not know about your vow and I am sorry for judging you. I hope you can accept my apology." Rtas said nobly and I smiled.

"Hey, no harm no foul." He smiled and was about to say something when the waiter returned.

"We can make you any drink that you would like ma'am." He said, gazing down at me. I felt myself blush as he stared at my chest, apparently not noticing that I noticed.

"I'd like a strawberry smoothie please. Real fruit please." He nodded, cast one last lingering glance at my chest that made me blush, then left. I shifted uncomfortable, my face still hot as I turned my attention back to Rtas. He was staring after the waiter, his face stony and fierce. I heard a growl from my left and turned to see Thel in a similar manner, his fist clenched and his entire body shaking.

"What is wrong?" I asked quietly, reaching out and placing my hand on his arm. His head snapped around and we were suddenly face to face, his eyes blazing in anger. My breath caught as I suddenly felt what prey must feel when face to face with a predator. His eyes suddenly relaxed, his muscled arm softening beneath my hand and he looked down, ashamed.

"I am sorry I scared you. That man," He glared at the door, a growl rumbling through his chest before he looked away, "He was desecrating you with his eyes. Such an offense can Not go unpunished." His fist clenched again and I couldn't help but admire the feel of his muscles moving beneath my hand.

"I assure you he will be dealt with." General Sara Smith, the only other girl there, declared, staring at Thel with a stern glare. He slowly relaxed, sitting back in his seat and sighing.

"So long as he is dealt with." He muttered, then said to Rtas in his language, "I cannot believe the gall of some humans. Daring to look at my female like that." I felt myself stiffen slightly at his words but I disguised it with a cough, taking the moment to remove my hand from his arm. I couldn't believe it; I was being offered up to THE ARBITER! And already he was acting like I was his. I bit my tongue, pretending to listen as light conversation filled the room, but I was lost in thought. I absently sipped my smoothie when it was brought to me and I remained silent, staring at the fake fire as the conversation continued.

I wasn't sure what to think. On the one hand, I was kinda pissed that I was being pushed into such a high-profile position, while on the other hand... he was really nice. And strong. And... cute? Staring into the fire, I struggled with my internal conflict, keeping my emotions out of my face as they flashed through my heart.

AN: Comment please!