"Sounds spectacular." answered Rohit, internally pleased at the success of the call. "In terms of time, how is eight o'clock this evening for you?"
A moment of thought passed, before Sophia eventually replied. "Why, eight... sounds perfect. I'd better get ready for it. See you then, I guess?"
"See you then." Rohit confirmed, before ending the call.
Den Faviken was an uptown restaurant, serving rustic and authentic, yet elegant, traditional Xentheridan food. While there were a few oddities on the menu, such as scallops cooked over burning juniper branches and even cow's heart, they were all pleasing to the palate, and often served with an oak-infused red wine or a sweet white, not only from the many vineyards in the nation itself, but also from abroad. One could note, however, that Xentherida's love of the ocean was reflected here, with the fish menu being long and varied, with regular and more interesting choices as common as each other. Often full of the wealthy, although the more lower-class were sporadically dining at a table here and there, this was shown in the attire required, with dinner jackets or other similar, formal items being compulsory for men.
Those who visited Den were instantly greeted with a cosy feel, with a large fireplace crackling in the corner, the gleaming wooden slats commonplace, and the smell of lavender, jasmine and even a hint of vanilla and lemon. Instantly a formal atmosphere was conjured, supported by the diners wearing their finest formal attire, and the high-backed, yet somewhat comfortable chairs. The restaurant was illuminated by candles burning brightly on each table, giving the restaurant a dim glow, albeit bright enough to see well in. Those sitting close to the kitchen were entranced by the smells of cooking food, the gentle crackling of oil in a pan, before a steak was added, increasing the noise with a light sizzle as heat penetrated the meat, frying it before it was removed and added to a dish; a crisp green salad being the most common addition.
The call having ended a few hours ago, Sophia turned her attention to herself in preparation for the dinner. "Obviously," she thought, with a wry smile, as she looked at her current outfit, "this will not do for such an occasion." She took a moment to assess the situation, and what to wear. Having earlier taken a relaxing bath, she switched her consciousness to her somewhat small wardrobe, and quickly chose a pair of shoes, deciding on a relatively low pair of heels, in a muted shade of cream. For a dress, she settled on a favourite of hers; a red strapless number that fell to just below the knee. After applying small touches of make-up, she selected a simple gold necklace, and two small silver earrings, each with an infinitesimal diamond in the centre. Finally, she set to work upon her hair, although there was little to be done aside from combing and fixing into position, and applying small touches of perfume.
Back in his hotel room, Rohit was also deciding what to wear, although within seconds he had settled on a choice; a light grey overcoat with the symbol of the Syrixian Empire on the lapel. Clothes common for formal events in Syrixia, especially in the government. He then added to that a charcoal pair of tailor-fitted trousers, and a grey Rolex watch. After taking a brief shower and applying deodorant, he changed into his clothes, before checking the time. 7:35. "Time to go." he thought, as he picked up his hotel keys and other miscellaneous objects as he began to head out the door to go to the parking lot, where the Xentheridan-provided chauffeur and car were waiting. Upon entering and slotting in his seatbelt, he nodded to the driver - who, upon noticing the gesture in the mirror - set off for the Cosonian Royal Palace.
The Cosonian Royal Palace was the second-most important Royal Palace, and was mainly used for diplomatic conferences and similar events. Situated next to the state council's offices on the peak of a small hill, it stood glowing in the evening light, lights clearly visible through the many windows. Currently, the King and his family were situated there, due to the conferences being held on Xentherida's position on the conflict being called the Great War; nations in the Helmebaine alliance were concerned that, because of strong diplomatic links between the nations - namely the port swap being a strong factor - that Xentherida would assist Nebula.
The Xentheridan-made Mercedes-Benz E-Class 212 smoothly pulled up just outside the palace - currently deserted on the outside, save for the perpetual presence of guards - and began to wait. Thankfully, the guards knew of the events, and one calmly strolled towards the vehicle, while the rest continued their duty. After a brief conversation between the guard and the driver, the door was opened for Rohit, who began to walk the short distance to the palace doors. As he walked, he noted the weather; while it was a clear night, the moon shining vividly, unimpeded by butts, it was relatively cool; nothing like the hot day that had preceded it.
As he reached the polished oaken doors, he knocked twice, the sound reverberating throughout the square. Within seconds, Sophia opened the door, looking radiant in her strapless dress. "Well then," she said, somewhat breathlessly. "Shall we get going?"
With a quick nod to not only agree, but to hide his flushed face, he then took hold of her outstretched hand and, matching her pace, walked with her to the parked car. "Evening, ma'am." said one of the guards respectfully as she passed him.
When they reached the car, Rohit chivalrously held the door open for her, making Sophia smile as she entered. Once she was seated, Rohit got in and sat beside her, behind the driver. Having previously been informed of the situation, he glanced back, making sure they were buckled in - a paternal instinct he had developed - and set off for Den Faviken.
While it was only a short drive to the restaurant, the two quickly struck up a conversation about the restaurant. Rohit - having never dined there before - was eager to listen to Sophia's description of the place, herself having been on a few occasions, mainly with her brother to celebrate various occasions. He was attentive, asking questions about small details and laughing at the occasional joke she threw in. Before they knew it, however, they had arrived. After both stepping out of the limo, Rohit again nodded at the driver - a signal to take his leave. "Enjoy yourselves." said the driver. "Just call when you need me."
They walked the few steps to the door, took a deep breath, and entered Den Faviken.
(OOC: Writing this on a mixed behalf; Syrixia has an extreme case of Writer's Block and I wanted to advance the story a lot. Also, holy sheet, this must be my longest post yet; 1,134 words, excluding this OOC comment. Took over 4 hours to write. Hope ya enjoy!)
