A Union of the Mundane and the Divine [Family & Friends]

[Thrand Hearthfire]

Averlorn, the Woodland Realm​

He'd been pacing back and forth for a good while, wringing his hands out of nervousness knowing what day today was. Before him stood an armour stand showcasing his outfit, combining fabrics fashioned by deft elven hands and steelwork forged by stout Valkyri brawn. There was a knock on the door which snapped him out of his self-imposed trance. On the other side was Kära, Queen of Midvinter, looking up at her firstborn child. "Mother," he greeted her and she stepped into his embrace, small in stature as she was. "My sweet little boy," she exhaled while clinging to him a bit longer than necessary. He didn't mind the distraction, finding comfort in her presence.

"Oh, look at you," Kära commented at his unkempt appearance, her slender fingers flowing through his similarly snow-white hair. "Can't have you look so dishevelled at your own wedding, you're marrying a Queen after all," she winked at him and strode past him into the bedroom. "Here, you take a seat here and I'll get you sorted. I won't take no for an answer, young man." She pulled out the chair by the vanity table and Thrand, rolling his eyes, did as commanded. "Yes, ma'am."

Grabbing a brush, she proceeded to get his long, messy hair under control little by little. "This may be the last time I may dote on my first boy, and you can be damn sure I will do just that!" Watching her reflection work on his hair in the mirror, Thrand noted a mix of joy and sorrow in his mother's face. Clearly she was as emotionally affected as he, only it seemed with each stroke of the brush her façade crumbled until silent tears rolled down her cheeks. He reached for her hand as their eyes met in the reflection. "I love you, Mama," he smiled at her, having regained his confidence. Tilting his head back to look up at her, Kära placed a long kiss on his forehead. "Never as much as I love you, my son," her voice cracked just briefly before regaining her composure, clearing her throat. "Well... You get yourself dressed, and I'll go check on your beautiful bride. Poor thing must be just as nervous, and with no family to comfort her..."

It was a sad thought, knowing Ióunn had no-one close to lean on save himself. Spending the night in separate rooms had been difficult, however knowing that after today they would never be parted again would make up for it and then some.

After his mother left and shut the door after her, Thrand turned to the armour stand, taking in the fine details of it all before removing one piece at a time to place upon himself.

The ceremony was set to begin at midday, when the sun is at the top of the sky in accordance to Aelvar tradition; the tall trees of the dense woods did not let much sunlight through in the mornings and afternoons, and so wedding ceremonies were held while the sun was at its zenith to grant its light and warmth upon the bride and groom. In this particular case, it was doubly fitting that the Sunlight God is allowed to witness the ceremony and grant them His blessing.

While the Aelvar were all gearing up for a royal wedding, the Valkyri royal family had opted for a small and intimate list of guests, inviting only close family and their significant ones to attend. The High King and his Queen had arrived the night before, along with Thrand's brothers and sisters. The rest would turn up on their own accord leading up to the ceremony.

[member="Ióunn Ar-Olwa"]​

 

[Ióunn Ar-Olwa]

The morning broke clear over the mists of Averlorn and for the day’s ceremony the Aelvar dropped the shroud among the trees in order to welcome the guess for the wedding. Ióunn had been up early, along with her hand maidens to prepare her for the service.

As is their tradition, the women of the Aelvar spend the early morning on the banks of the Frostvatn bathing their Queen in ritual botanicals and oils. It was a ritual dating back to when time began and each Queen that wed received the blessing from the Lady of the Lake. Ióunn walked bare footed out over the ice toward the magical force nexus that blessed this place, and Midvinter. The power of it is only tolerated by few, to be so close without any physical ruin but not the Queen.

She remembered the days in which her parents had entered it upon their deaths and joined each other in the power that fuelled them all. The symbiotic connected not only to Averlorn, but to all Aelvar was felt as she approached, each and every one of them a part of her now and in turn she belonged to them. An Aelvar is never truly alone, not with this connection.

Yet her mind turned toward the memory of her parents, she had missed them, mourned them, but did not feel sorrow as they were forever with her and even now, she could sense their presence with her now, their eyes smiling with happiness upon this day.

Ióunn pushed back the straps of her white gown and allowed it to fall to the frozen surface of the Lake, she stood naked, her hair long down her back and unbrushed .. there were no signs of any trappings of life on her, only her mind, body and soul bare to the power and she stepped through it.

As she proceeded, the power of the nexus almost to a point of consuming her, but her strength held and her body reached a point of it limits and once she stepped out, on the other side, Ióunn released the power within her in a streaming white light that reached to the blue sky. Her skin, her hair blinding to those that would look upon her, and before her stood the white figure of the Lady of the Lake.

The words spoke between them for no eyes or ears, only the Queen has that knowledge and forever will. The blessing was given, and through it Ióunn received the power of the Frostvatn that no other has, nor every would. Once the secret ritual was completed, she returned to her hand maidens and dressed.

No Aelvar male or any outsider had ever seen this ritual, it was forbidden.

“Come to me at midmorning to help me prepare, until then I shall be alone”, she gave her command and the hand maidens departed. Ióunn walked among the trees of the forest, each one of them known to her, every blade of grass, moss and lichen. All the creatures she could sense with clarity she had never known before she had step into the nexus, it was like she had been reborn. The girl was killed, and the woman be born. She walked among her home, like it was the first time marvelling at the sense of the life within everything around her. This stretched beyond the borders, across Midvinter and it almost overwhelmed her, but it was exhilarating, Midvinter herself was steeped in happiness for what is to come.

She thought of her love, her beloved Thrand here with her now among his family and she smiled knowing he was excited for the day as much as she was. He had grown into the finest man she had laid eyes on, so handsome and strong, nothing in this world or the next would ever compare to him. Ióunn would walk this way until the time came for her to return to the royal quarters to prepare herself in the royal gown.

​

[member="Thrand Hearthfire"]​

 

[Thyrian Hearthfire]

The Royal Family had arrived the night before escorted by only a chosen handful of huscarls - mostly to safeguard against the local wildlife on their journey south - allowing the King and Queen to spend the evening with their eldest and his bride-to-be afore the big day. In the case of the Phoenix King, the morning had been spent to walk the "streets" of Averlorn, marvelling at the absolutely stunning architecture of the Aelvar so perfectly incorporating nature itself into their designs. It was a hobby Thyrian had little-to-no personal experience in, however he found the works of other, more creative folk interesting to study closely. Might just be a sign of old age, for all he knew.

While his wife was off checking on the groom, the King happened upon the return of Queen [member="Ióunn Ar-Olwa"] from her apparent visit to the woods, with each and every one of her people bowing their head to their sovereign. It was clear that she had not yet changed for the wedding ceremony, considering her relatively simple attire and unkempt hair. Though he knew not of many elven customs, he highly respected their traditions and so when she drew near, so did the High King bow his head.

"Your Grace," he greeted her, his fiery gaze falling upon her lithe form and the incredible grace with which all Aelvar carried themselves. "I trust you are not too worn out after a night of nerves," he added with a gentle smile, knowing well the torturous hours leading up to the ceremony. Offering his arm to her, the two rulers strode along paths which led towards her royal quarters at a leisurely pace, for there were still hour 'til the wedding would take place. "Lady Ióunn, there is something I have wished to discuss with you for some time, but... I haven't had the chance to before now." The two found a secluded spot where they could sit upon a great root of an even greater tree.

After a moment of silence trying to find the right words, Thyrian met the Queen's gaze. "I know my son, and I know his love for you is true and without hesitation. And, there is nothing he would not sacrifice for your love. But I also know a part of him is conflicted about joining his soul with yours, all out of that same love he feels for you." There was a tremble in his voice, knowing he was skirting around the issue. "What I mean to say is, I know the two of you will be very happy together; you will lead this world into the future, and conquer any threat to Midvinter as one people. But, this would only last for so many years, until the mortality of Men falls upon him. When Thrand is inevitably summoned to Beornskald, what will become of you, Ióunn? You yet have many of our lifetimes to see and experience, it seems cruel that your happiness be confined to but one century."

Taking her gentle hands in his, a frown found his lips as his face grew saddened by the thought. "However, it would be even crueler for the world to keep the two of you apart. I know that when the time comes, you will wish to give up your life to be with the man you love. I just hope you have considered this very crucial choice; giving up on your immortality to lead one lifetime of happiness." His concern for her was whole-hearted and in earnest, reflected in the tone of his voice and the expression on his face.

"Forgive me, my lady, for passing such grim thoughts onto you, today of all days. I only feel I owe it to your mother and father to see about your happiness."

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

Théo tugged at the collar of his new long coat, it was a bit tight for his liking. Realising he had no clothing for official junction, he had the attire commissioned from the famous weavers of the Falls of Crystals, black fine thread with silver embroider of the sigil of his house, the white stag. He was ready for the ceremony before time and looked the part with his hair pulled back and everything clean and neat which he hoped would stay that way for the remainder of the day. That would all depend on Thora of course.

When the hour approached, the family of the black knight would make their way to the area in the village to take part as representatives of the Northmark, and the family of course. It had been some time for them all to come together for celebration, the last being his own wedding so it was good to have this time among them again. There is little opportunity these days it seemed to him.

It would also be a good opportunity for Thirdas and himself to check up on their father, both worried about his state of mind and physicality. They would have to do it themselves, mother would not say unless their papa permitted. He was old school, kept things hidden from them so not to worry them, which never really works when family is close.

Now that he was as ready as he was going to be, Théo decided it was time to find Thora and try to keep her clean if that was at all possible. His daughter had already found interests in some of the children of the Aelvar, he could hear her laughing outside the window. She had protested at the idea of wearing a dress, she hates them with a passion, but a firm look from her mother soon put an end to that ‘rebellion’.

He placed his hands on the ledge of the glassless window, leaned out. “Try and keep clean young lady, at least till after the service”. He received a ‘yes papa’, which gave him some hope. But in all honesty, Théo just wanted her to enjoy the occasion and simply be a kid, there is time enough for her to live a life of adulthood as childhood is so fleeting.

[member="Thyrian Hearthfire"]​

 

[Ylva Heavenshield]

Ceremonies such as this one were rare for the Red Wolf, not having attended a formal event since her own wedding to [member="Théodred Heavenshield"], choosing what to wear to such an occasion was something of a mishap requiring her mother-in-law's advice from behind the scenes. While she wouldn't dare admit to her beloved husband that she's sought out Coci's help for such a thing, something that Théodred would no doubt get a kick out of in thinking of his headstrong huntress fussing over what to wear, the simple fact was that Ylva had never adorned anything so fashionable as the simple yet graceful outfit that clung loosely to her body and did nothing in the way of upstaging the betrothed.

The thoughts that were running through her mind as she walked a little awkwardly in the modern footwear, only the Gods would know. Given the climate of Midvinter, she had of course chosen footwear more appropriate for her cold winds, as well as an open sweater that she kept draped over her shoulders for a little added warmth and perhaps even as a slight deterrent to her anxiety which threatened to show as much as her pale arms were at the time.

After her recent time spent in good quality with her father-in-law, Ylva looked about the setting for [member="Thurion Heavenshield"], though he'd probably be busy dealing with the rest of their family. Some of whom she'd probably end up meeting for the first time today. Gods, how many of them were there? [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] was a familiar sight however, one that reminded her of a previous time of war in which she fought by the side of his army and first introduced herself to the lords of Midvinter in the most arrogant fashion that was accustomed to her pride, despite her best intentions at the time. Théo had given her grief about it for weeks on end...

Speaking of; somewhere about the place, her Husband was no doubt trying to snuff out their daughter and keep her mischievous habits under wraps before Ylva could call her out on her behavior. Something in the ways of their parenting that divided the two, though Ylva wasn't hard on little [member="Thora Heavenshield"] for any other reason than wanting the best for her daughter. It was however Théodred's way of showering her with love that evened out their methods and had taught their beautiful daughter both how to fight and how to love and live under the grace of the Gods. Thurion and Thora's mother had been discussing these things not some time ago, the elder sharing some much needed light on her Husband's upbringing and gently urging her not to be too...Unforgiving. The past was, after all, in the past he had told her.

"So this is where you're hiding..." Ylva announced herself as she moved to join her husband, giving Thora a knowing look though accompanied with a faint smile and nod of approval for her simple being there and representing their family in good standing; "No sign of the folks yet?" She asked, looking to Théodred curiously.

[member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | [member="Ióunn Ar-Olwa"] | [member="Thrand Hearthfire"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

​

Though the occasion of their visit to the elven lands was a joyous one, Thurion had had some trepidation at returning after all these years. Much had happened in the interim; his own firstborn son had found love and gotten married, and later blessed him with a beautiful grandchild. His youngest, Thirdas, had grown into manhood and ventured off to find his own destiny amongst the stars. And all the while, Thurion was left to feel his spirit wither away bit by bit, believing he had no other choice than to resign himself to a torturously slow end. If others had not caught on to his illness yet, they surely would soon enough once his body inevitably begins to fade as well. The time to reveal it to the members of his family was fast approaching.

Following a quiet stroll along the shores of the frozen lake held so sacred to the Aelvar, he and Coci eventually made their way back to the centre of town only to find themselves stood before the apparent shrine dedicated to his once-most trusted companion. Before them stood the statue of whom Thurion imagined to be the Lady of the Lake - Avatar of the Frostvatn, and in her arms rested the shards of the sword Snowfall upon a stone table. It was painful, staring at the symbol of his younger years and rise to prominence amongst the Valkyri, feeling as shattered as the pieces of phrik on the table.

"My old friend," he uttered softly and stepped forward to carefully wrap his fingers around the grip, realising no-one had even touched the broken blade since the day they were placed there. For a moment, grasping his old sword seemed to return him to the olden days of adventure, and he turned to Coci as he grasped it with both hands, infused with his former strength again. "It's still just as sharp as ever," he marveled and traced the tip of his finger along its edge, only to recoil slightly as he drew his own blood. The blade was so sharp in fact that there wasn't even any pain, yet as he looked upon the reflective metal there was a moment when the aspect of the Crone appeared in it. The startling sight caused him to drop the broken sword and he took a step back, hearing the *clang* of it hitting the foot of the statue.

By now these sights had become more and more common, seeing her face in a crowd or hearing her cackle in the distance. "I'm alright," he attempted to assure his wife, rubbing the back of his hand against his forehead. He wasn't, of course. "Just a minor one, thankfully..."

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Ylva Heavenshield"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

As their hands separated and Thurion reached for the hilt of Snowfall, Coci watched and found herself to the side of the statue. It had remained in place, all the broken shards resting on the cloth of Aelvar weave. It was a broken as he was, a reminder to them both of what plagues his soul. She felt the fury build up insider her again, this is why her beloved Thurion is slowly fading to nothing before her eyes and there was nothing, she could do to stop it. For all their power.

But there was one moment, just a glimmer of hope that there might be an answer, when the hilt raised before him and his old strength return, but that was snatched away just as quickly and along with it, her hope. Coci felt the fear within him, their bond shared for some many years, never lies to either of them. The crones flashing appearance to him was not seen by her, it had been for his mind’s eye only. Even though she is vanquished, she still haunts him.

Coci had remained strong, for him as well as for the family, but it was starting to press on her as well, and was becoming far more difficult to hide or carry. She bent down and picked up the fallen hilt of Snowfall and for a moment examined it before her own black eyes hoping to find something within the reflective light in the metal. Just a glimpse, just something to show her the answer and in that moment, the Sun dappled through the tree tops and hit the shattered blade. Someone looked back at her, it was blinding to her unique black eyes and she had to look away.

With a trembling hand, Coci replaced the hilt back in its position on the statue and try as she might she could not recall the flash of the vision, all she remembered was a colour and even that she was uncertain of.

She pressed to her husband and kissed his soft lips, as her hand cupped his cheek. “Come, we must prepare and dress for the wedding”. As they walked slowly along the upper platform away from Snowfall, her mind turned back to the vision, and even though she could not understand it .. there was a new hope.

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

 

[Ióunn Ar-Olwa]

She lightly placed her hand on his arm and welcomed the stroll though the forest with the King of Midvinter, and her father to be. “I spent the night restlessly but today two worlds will unite and there is nothing to be fearful of”, naturally there was more to it than that. As they proceeded through the trees and were soothed by the surroundings, “Do you remember this place?”, she suddenly asked as her hand swept to the clearing. “This is the place were we first met, when that beautiful little boy with white hair wandered into Averlorn and brought two worlds together”.

Ióunn led Thyrian over to a thick fallen log and invited him to sit with her. “Yes, we do live long, but not immortal. I can die as much as you can”, she contemplated her thoughts and words. “As powerful as we might be, I can not turn back time. If that boy had not wandered into the forest lost, then things would be different for me, I would not have met my love. But I did. Now, the thought of living a full life without him is impossible”.

“I do not know what will happened for either of us, no matter who would be the first to leave the realms of Midvinter, it could easily be me and Thrand would be left alone. But if this is not the case, I would rather spend a life with him than without him and whatever happens after, that is not my place to determine. But I do know that loving Thrand come what may, will be a life time well spent”. There was no need to reassure her, the thoughts of this had passed her mind but each time it did, she came to the same result. Life without Thrand was unthinkable.

“The time draws near, and I must prepare. My hand maidens will be growing concerned”, she stood and offered him her arm this time. “You have raised a fine man, and one day he will be a fine king”. Ióunn led Thyrian down the moss paved path, a carpet lay before them as if to herald the ancestry of kings and queens.

[member="Thyrian Hearthfire"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

He felt the soft presence of his wife’s approach, and for most of the morning he had allowed the powerful serenity of Averlorn to wash over him, there was so much power here the nexus filled everyone and everything with the force of life and it was intoxicating and fulfilling. “Not yet, they are here though”, he pushed his hands off the window ledge and turned to his Ylva.

It was impossible for Théo to hide his surprise at Ylva standing next to him with that dress, she looked beautiful, amazing in it. It was the first time he saw her in such dress that he had to wonder if it was her, he smiled and took her hands in his. “You look … stunning”, and she was stunning.

There was a mischief sparkle in his eyes, and he looked down into hers and stepped forward, “Finally”, he lowered his voice to a whisper, just in case Thora was still in earshot. “Tonight, I shall have my wish come true”, he bit his bottom lip as thoughts of making love to her filled his mind, and no doubt Ylva would recall his ‘threat’ that if she ever wore a silk dress, he would rip it off her. Not wanting to smear her face with his rough beard, Théo leaned in and softly kissed her neck and his arm pulled her to his body.

Out side the window a line of children ran laughing toward the area of the service which quelled Théo’s amorous intentions, and he heaved a heavy sigh. “I suppose we should go find everyone before ..”, he trailed off with a smirk. And how knows, maybe just maybe, tonight a new Heavenshield might be blessed to them.

“We need to go find my brother, there is something we both must do before the wedding”, Théo took her hand and left their quarters and entered the atmosphere of the wedding. Averlorn looked festive, beautiful and the Aelvar were so graceful and unique, he felt like a big bantha by comparison. There were several things plaguing Théo’s mind, one was his father, the other, Boo.

But for now, he kept his worries to himself.

[member="Ylva Heavenshield"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

"There, see? You're getting the hang of it." It had been a hesitant [member="Nida Perl"] that had climbed into the horse's saddle, having required much reassurance from Thirdas to make the attempt. Horseback riding had always come natural to him, even as a young boy, though he supposed to an outsider horses, especially the larger Midvinter breed, the thought of actually riding one could be considered a frightening one. The woodland realm of Averlorn had little in terms of open ground, enough so for a ship to land within their borders, and so going in by foot - or hoof - was the only way if one doesn't count swooping in by gryphon. He'd thought about it, but came to the conclusion that there was simply no way Nida would ever step close to one of those.

Through the woods they rode at a leisurely pace, for the untamed terrain proved difficult to go at a full gallop. Besides, they hadn't gotten that far in Nida's training yet. Around them amongst the treetops dwellings had been erected in unison with nature itself, the line between house and tree indistinguishable. The two reached the ever-frozen lake around which much of the Elves' society revolved; as crucial to their identity as a people as the Gods were to his own. "This," he motioned to the lake, "is the Frostvatn, a very sacred place as I understand it." Riding along the banks of the lake, the unbridled power emanating from under the ice was palpable to even an untrained Force-sensitive like Thirdas; a great nexus dwelled below, responsible for empowering the Elves with their supreme senses and innate ability in the use of the Force - magic, as his people called it.

Upon reaching the other side of the lake they'd reached their destination, where the woodland palace of the elven Queen sits amidst several other public places, such as their great library containing texts dating back to ancient time. Granted, one would first need to learn Elvish to even attempt to read one, for as with all things the elven tongue has evolved since and only the most dedicated and educated of Aelvar are able to parse together the very oldest scrolls.

Having located the stables, the two rather obvious outsiders dismounted with Thirdas gracefully leaping off his steed so that he may assist Nida. During the attempt she slipped only to be caught in his awaiting arms. "Good job," he grinned as their eyes met. Once back on her feet, the two began to have a look around, for it was his first visit to Averlorn as well. As their hands found one another their fingers enwined, no longer too shy to display affection in public.

"Hey, that looks like someone I know," he called out to his big brother [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] as they happened upon each other. The two embraced in the way that brothers do, before he offered [member="Ylva Heavenshield"] a bow of his head. "Lady Ylva."

Taking a step back, he turned to the Zeltron girl. "This, is my Nida," he introduced her rather affectionately.

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Anxious with the new task at first, Nida quickly found that she enjoyed riding on horseback. Even though she had barely gotten the basics down, having Thirdas nearby put her at ease. The horses on Midvinter were large, imposing beasts and Nida was unused to animal life, never having grown up with a pet. Her mother said that they wouldn’t do well in city life, that they were as much work as a child, etc. whenever she or her siblings inquired about adopting a fluffy Corellian shepherd or Atrisian house cat. This being her first time riding on horseback, she was grateful for the gentle, almost serene nature of chestnut mount.

This would be Thirdas’ first time back home since joining the rangers, and Nida was grateful to share the journey with him as his significant other. They had embarked on many ‘firsts’ together, and this would be their maiden journey to Averlorn, the shrouded home of Midvinter’s elven forest folk. As they trotted past the Frostvatn, Nida could feel the Force swell around them. This being her first time near a Force nexus, she couldn’t quite put her finger on what exactly she was feeling, but stared in awe at the great spires of white light that rose from the surface of the lake, high into the sky.

Once they’d arrived at their destination, Nida had some difficulty maneuvering her way off of the horse, unwieldy as her position was. Fortunately Thirdas was there to catch her, assisting her with the dismount. “Thanks to you.” Her face flushed and she smiled at him. Nida’s initial shyness around Thirdas had melted away by now, but she’d likely never stop blushing around him. Hand in hand, the pair quickly came across Thirdas’ elder brother and his wife.

Nida smoothed her free hand over the material of her robe—shades of white and grey, a common sight among the dedicated healers of the Silver Jedi. It was her most appropriate outfit, clean and without any tears or stubborn blood stains. Heat blossomed along her cheeks again as Thirdas introduced her as My Nida. A subtle choice of words, but one that spoke of fondness.

“It’s good to see you again, Théodred.” Bowing in greeting, she hadn’t had a lot of time to interact with him, but apparently he knew her elder sister, Yula. Ylva, on the other hand, Nida had yet to meet. She’d been to Ylva and Théo’s wedding, but at that point she’d scarcely known the Heavenshield family. “You must be Ylva, the Red Wolf of Midvinter. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” She gave the woman a tentative smile, picking up on her no-nonsense nature off the bat. Well, Thridas may have mentioned something to her prior.

“Where’s young Thora?” Presumably the girl was off playing, seeing no reason to hang around the boring grownups.

[member="Thirdas Heavenshield"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Ylva Heavenshield"]

 

[Ylva Heavenshield]

Incidentally, Ylva had forgotten the promise that her Husband had made to her some time ago now, a mischievous grin crossing her lips as she looked into his gaze, his arm pulling her ever closer that her right hand would be placed against his chest, her left taking to his shoulder. "Pace yourself husband, you'll scare the younglings" she remarked softly, intend on reminding him of the environment they shared with others. It wasn't that she didn't enjoy the thought, but there were a number of factors present that called to her, as though she needed to be strong for him...

Ylva was a woman of few talents compared to the rest of the Heavenshields, yet as it happened, one such talent of hers played out in the moment, for her ability to hide her concern for her beloved [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] when he spoke so impulsively for their need to speak with his brother, as well as her respect for keeping her word to [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] during their recent time spent together. Her Father-in-law had shared something with her that her beloved wasn't yet aware of, and while she had promised to keep these things close to her heart, it didn't stop to give her pause where Théo spoke this way...-The way he sounded when he had his heart set on something important. Quietly, secretly, she hoped that it wasn't connected to his father's health.

"Hey, that looks like someone I know," ​

​

Théodred's younger brother [member="Thirdas Heavenshield"] called to their attention, the two men embracing one another before Thirdas would acknowledge her in greeting. It seemed Thirdas wasn't alone either, to which Ylva smiled fondly to both he and [member="Nida Perl"]. It often amused Ylva how large their family was, rarely were they all in the same place for any decent period of time and so these ceremonies were always a heart-warming time.

"Lady Ylva". ​

"This, is my Nida".​

“You must be Ylva, the Red Wolf of Midvinter. It’s a pleasure to meet you”.​

"And you as well, Lady Nida" Ylva replied replied in warm welcome, "Might I say your robes are very graceful. It's good to finally see Thirdas associating with someone with a fashion-sense" Ylva remarked, boasting a smirk to her brother-in-law at his expense, ever in jest of course. It wasn't like fashion was ever something Ylva had cared for either, yet giving Thirdas a jab was too good an opportunity to give up, especially in the presence of a lady-friend.

"Truly though, you look very nice. No doubt you'll make many of these folk jealous" Ylva recovered some ground from the playful bite at Thirdas, turning her attention to those around them. "Do hold on to that one" she added with a smile, looking to Théodred's brother with something of a casual glare, almost paternal like in warning.

[member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | [member="Ióunn Ar-Olwa"] | [member="Thrand Hearthfire"]​

​

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

It was a long, plodding journey from the southernmost reaches of the continent riding on the back of a giant polar bear-man. The steady rocking of her travelling companion and protector, coupled with the warm, inviting fur bed in the form of his back, Nina had fallen asleep hours before reaching the edge of the Woodland Realm. They had become an odd yet increasingly common sight among her people, known for roaming the length and breadth of the land recording anything of note, be it persons, locations, or stories. It had been her sole occupation for a decade now, and she had no doubt it would take many more.

[member="Arnor Oathsworn"] was ever the quiet and patient companion, making any would-be troublemakers turn the other way through presence alone and had no issue acting as his little friend's ride during the longer journeys. The two had been together since she was but a child, having befriended him in the aftermath of the Sith invasion when they had silence in common, sharing thoughts with one another through the use of telepathy.

A gentle leap over a fallen log had her stir awake, her head nestled in between Arnor's shoulderblades and she let out a big yawn while stretching all her limbs. "Oh gosh... Are we there, yet?" A low rumble from the Beorni would suggest they were indeed. "So, this is Averlorn. Home of the Elves..." She hung lazily over his back, propping herself up on her elbows while taking in the scenery. Already she was seeing types of trees and vegetation never-before-seen outside these woods, and the ground was all green with nary a flake of snow. So much material for her book!

Just wait until she finds out about the library.

Sliding down the side of her travelling companion to walk with own two feet, allowing Arnor to fall back on his hindlegs and walk upright. "This is incredible...!" Reaching into her pack she pulled out a notepad and pencil to scribble down notes while they wandered, overtaken with curiosity and lust for knowledge. Meanwhile, Arnor patiently reached over her to brush aside any low-hanging branches and shrugs she otherwise would have walked into, too pre-occupied with her note-taking to bother looking where she went.

She only stopped upon reaching the lake, taking notice of the power of the Force swelling within her. She was about to step out onto it, but for once Arnor halted her advance with a firm hand on her shoulder. Looking up at him, he merely offered a determined shake of his head. "Spirit-ground," he rumbled aloud in his broken accent, a supremely rare occasion. Nina took it as this being holy ground to his people, and thus did as asked by walking the banks of the frozen lake.

"Is that...? It is!" She took off in a sprint, leaving him behind to catch up in his own time. Up ahead she saw her brothers, along with Ylva and the Zeltron girl Thirdas had left Midvinter with. "Pounced ya!" She did just that, attacking her littlest brother from behind.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Ylva Heavenshield"] | [member="Nida Perl"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] had always been there for him, through each and every hardship since that fateful night within their special cave. Even more so recently, as his condition got noticably worse with panic attacks and loss of vigour required her support almost daily. "I'm sorry, my love. I'm sorry you must shoulder the burden that is me..." He knew, of course. He knew his failing health put a considerable emotional strain on her, having to watch her husband of so many good years fade before her very eyes while powerless to stop it. In turn, it made Thurion feel as if having become a burden for her, having to care for him when his strength fails.

At this stage, he hoped to at least face his end in the manner of his choosing rather than waste away utterly to the despair of his loved ones. It's not how he wishes his family to remember him when he's gone.

For now however, he would enjoy walking with his beloved wife within the elven realm. They had salvaged what they could from his defeat at the hands of the Crone, with the late Queen herself tending to his wounds with more skill than any healer in the known galaxy. Yet, even she was unable to stop the inevitable, and only postpone his demise.

"Oh, look at this little fellow," he stopped to watch a tiny, lone bird take a bath in an equally tiny pool of water formed from a gathering of dew drops. It was in that moment of silence that they overheard familiar voices coming from nearby. Realising they belonged to members of his family, Thurion's back straightened and his stride was injected with a false sense of confidence as they rounded the corner to find not just one or two, but three of their children all in one place. A rare thing indeed, especially considering their youngest had even left the planet a full year ago.

While the two had been assured he was indeed to attend his cousin's wedding, when Lord and Lady Heavenshield saw their littlest one their hearts noticably soared. "Mama! Papa!" The eldest was quickest to lay eyes on the pair, followed by her two brothers and their significant others in the form of [member="Ylva Heavenshield"] and [member="Nida Perl"]. The three siblings presented themselves to their parents, but not before the younger two shared a look of concern.

"My sweet Snowflake," Thurion embraced his first child, adopted though she may be, yet she had carried the name Heavenshield longer than any other save the man himself. Next in line was their firstborn, Théodred, and his wife. Thurion wasted no time in embracing them both together. "It does my heart good to see you two," he spoke softly past their ears, meaning every word of it. Lastly, there was Thirdas and his Zeltron friend. At first, he was taken aback at the sight of his youngest offering a military salute to his father, and while he did so Thurion got a closer look at his boy's face. Cupping his cheek, he saw in his eyes that he was a changed man. That's what war does to you.

Likewise, Thirdas saw the change in his old man. How his condition had worsened since he left.

"My little boy," he embraced his son who by now could no longer maintain his composure. "Dad," he sobbed into his father's shoulder, giving in to the sense that he no longer needed to uphold Ranger decorum. He was home again. Once their embrace came to an end, Thurion's gaze fell upon the Zeltron girl. "You are the girl who accompanied him to Kashyyyk, are you not, young padawan," he recognised her and before she could even answer he had reached for her hand to place a gentle kiss upon. "I welcome you to my hearth, and into our family," he then spoke, having never even asked her her name.

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Thirdas had told Nida of the Aelvar and the secluded valley where they lived, but this was the first time she’d seen them with her own eyes. She couldn’t help but let her eyes linger, just for a moment, on the graceful elven folk as they passed by. To Nida, these people were something out of a story book, all elegant with long sleek hair and pointed ears . And Thirdas’ cousin Thrand was to marry their Queen! Suddenly she was excited to see what this woman looked like. Slender and a natural beauty like the rest of her race, no doubt.

Her cheeks flushed again with Ylva’s compliment, tipping her head in a mock bow by way of response. Being called Lady was strange to her, but Thirdas assured her that it was Midvinter custom. Being complimented on her appearance was something she never quite knew how to handle with grace. “Thank you, Lady Heavenshield.” Though nervous, there was a genuine fondness in her voice as she spoke. “Th-these are the robes of the Silver Healers, I was hoping that they’d be appropriate for the occasion.” She offered Ylva a tentative smile, before bringing a hand to her mouth to stifle a giggle as the red wolf threw a jab at Thirdas. She reached to squeeze his hand in reassurance, beginning to feel more at ease around his family. Idly she wondered if Thora’s adventurous nature had come from her mother or her father—or a combination of both.

The Heavenshield family slowly began to trickle into their little pocket of Averlorn, with the next arrival being Thirdas’ and Theo’s elder sister, Nina. She looked quite different from the rest of the family with her stark white hair, adopted into the family of Valkyri and Corellians but loved and accepted all the same. She’d tackled Thirdas from behind with a hug, the sudden gesture causing Nida to take a step back in surprise. A warm smile took the place of her uneasy expression almost instantly, understanding how deep the bond between siblings runs.

Then came the head of the family in the form of Coci and Thurion Heavenshield. Thurion greeted each of his children with such a loving warmth that Nida could feel it from where she was standing as she patiently watched the family reunite. Thirdas had not seen his mother or father since the day they’d left Midvinter together for Kashyyyk, and she nearly shed a tear as he and his father embraced with such raw emotion. That was her lot in being an empath—Zeltrons were more susceptible to the feelings around them, but she suspected that it had little to do with things right now.

She fidgeted as Thurion grasped her hand next, gentle like Thirdas’ grip, not expecting the greeting she’d received. “Oh-“ For a moment she was suspended in surprise, plainly written across her face as she was processing his words. How could two sentences move her to the point of tears? “Thank you, Lord Heavenshield.” Her voice cracked as she bowed her head quickly, using the pause to collect herself. How quickly she’d been accepted! It made her heart soar. “It makes me very happy to hear you say that. I…I’ve heard a great deal about you and your wife from my mother, and from the Silver Jedi. You are a renowned healer and physician!”

Part of her was getting a little giddy at the prospect of meeting someone so revered for his medical prowess. A gentle giant, she’d heard the healers sing praises of his skill. “Forgive me, I forgot to introduce myself.” She smiled now, this time anxious with renewed energy. “My name is Nida Perl.”

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] - [member="Ylva Heavenshield"] - [member="Théodred Heavenshield"]

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

He wore an amused smile as Ylva, and he left their quarters to go find the family. “I was hoping to scare you actually”.

The family found them instead. The first was his brother, looking entirely different from when he left Midvinter for the first time, a man stood in his place. Although Théo did not care much for the hair cut and to prove his point upon greeting Thirdas he raised his hand to mess up his hair, what was left of it. After their embrace ended, Théo acknowledge Nida with a smile before leaning in to kiss her cheek softly. “I see you survived the trip to Kashyyyk”, it was more a dig at his brother than anything. “But it is good to see you once more”.

A spike in recognition flowed through the force, Nina Heavenshield had decided to show her and be with them for this celebration. The family does not see her much these days, as she is too busy doing whatever Nina does. He would be lying so say it did not bother him, it did, it was like she distanced herself from them all by choice which saddened Théo greatly. Little by little his brother and sisters seemed to vanish, but he understood they had their own lives to lead. Théo just wanted her to remember that they were family too.

“Nina it is good to see you well”, he greeted her, and he did not move, he felt estranged from her in a way, she in the south, he in the north, there was little time or opportunity to spend time together. Good quality time.

Before anything could be said or done, their parents arrived and while Thirdas greeted their papa, Théo embraced their mother. She too looked much older than she should be, it only increased his concern for them both especially their papa. It was taking a toll on her which was understandable, it was almost as if the weaker Thurion got, the weaker Coci grew as well. Force bonds can be a tricky thing.

Once the opportunity arose, Théo stood before his father and took him in their usual embrace, his forehead pressed to his and he held on a little longer than necessary, with a hand placed behind his father’s head. “Papa, Thirdas and I wish to speak with you .. alone”. The words whispered passed his ear where adamant and would not brook refusal.

[member="Ylva Heavenshield"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Nida Perl"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Thurion just stood there with a wide grin listening to Nida's mouth outpacing her thoughts, delighting in the innocent youth and glad his youngest had met with one such as her. "I have had plenty of time to practise, that's for sure," he chuckled. "I would be honoured to compare notes with you at a later date, [member="Nida Perl"]," he settled a hand on her shoulder for a reassuring squeeze.

It was then that Théo stood before his father and whispered the words declaring he and his two boys required a talk in private. As their eyes met it became clear to him that the matter in question was of serious nature. He hesitated to agree at first, fearing that they had caught on to his condition and wished an honest answer. However, if that is what they want, then let them have it. Get it out in the air, finally. Then again, it could be something else entirely, in which case denying them made even less sense.

A soft nod and a serious face agreed to Théo's request, with Thirdas stepped forward to acknowledge his participation. "Coci, Ylva. Might I trouble you with showing Nida around and where she'll be staying during her visit?" The look he gave his wife would let her know it was a serious request. "Nina, did you know they have a huge library here? Why don't you go check it out, I'm sure you'll find some material for your book." Though she'd rather remain with her brothers, Nina supposed she would see more of them in a bit anyway. And a full library of information was too good to pass up!

Once the three were left alone, Thurion shuffled over to an elaborately carved wooden bench. A soft wave of his hand signaled for them to have it out. Thirdas was quick on the trigger, as ever. "Dad, you can't honestly think we wouldn't noticed. Us, who are of your very own blood," he gestered between himself and Théo. "I spent my every day at your side growing up. When you rode off to war that time, there was a part of you that never made it back. I've watched you wilt away with my own eyes, and--" He bit his tongue, trying his very best to not toss himself into a rant.

"What hurts the most is you never thought to tell us. Do you think so little of us?"

Thurion sat in silence while his sons aired their grievances, eyes closed and pondering his response. He took no offense to their being upset with him; they were concerned for him, as good sons are.

"It's true," he finally spoke. "I have... a condition. Your mother knows, of course. We don't know what it is, even with all our vast knowledge and contacts in the galaxy. What we do know for sure, is the Crone is behind it. When she tore these scars into my flesh, she must have laid some curse unto me. The elven healers did their best, but all they could manage was slow down the poisoning process." He looked up at his two boys. "I am... dying."

"However," he then stood before them, a hand on each shoulder. "I am not dead yet. And I don't want you two to go around spreading rumours about my health - if not for my sake, then for our people's sake."

Thirdas trembled, hearing his father's words and trying to come to terms with the truth. "...He's right, Théo. If our enemies were to find out Thurion Heavenshield is... It may embolden them to take action against Midvinter."

[member="Ylva Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

Thirdas only spoke his mind and emotions, some of them equal to his own however, Théo let him take the lead on the conversation for now. When their father replied, he went silent but paced the area in deep thought. He did not resent the fact that his father had not told them, something maybe Thirdas will experience one day when he has children, but as a father Théo understood he would do the same. So not to worry his beloved family.

His father only confirmed what Théo had suspected, the Crone was behind it. Father had not been of ill health before the battle, and it was hard won. So many Valkyri and Aelvar were killed that day and the effects of still felt today, you only had to look to the Queen of the Aelvar to see that. So young to be taking up the mantle of Queen of her people.

“Curse, poisoning…”, he repeated the words of his father while pacing. “We must find a cure or antidote”. He mulled aloud, “Because by all the Gods of Midvinter I will not let you die this way”. The last words spoken with venom toward the curse and the Crone. Yes, [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] was a mortal man, Théo had come to that realisation before today, but the man his father, still his hero. And he deserves better than this.

Snowfall is to be re-forged.

When he spoke of their enemies, if the news came to pass that he was ill, or rather what he perceived to the weak, Théo simply raised a brow at them both. “I am hardly likely to go place this on the holonews”, he said with disappointment in them both that he would do such a thing.

“Father with all due respect, do you think you are the only one here that can and will defend Midvinter if the enemy does come?”, He sat next to him now and looked toward Thirdas. “You have two sons that are strong, that would die defending our home”. Sometimes Théo feels as though his father still believes him a boy, forgets that he is as powerful as him in the force. “Not to mention Uncle”, then it occurred to him, “Does he know?”.

“If they come, they will meet with a wall of defiance and strength unlike they have seen in the past”. He wrapped his arms around his father and pulled him in close to embrace. “You are not dead yet, I will not let you die”, he whispered and only he and Thridas would hear his oath. Not this way.

[member="Ylva Heavenshield"] | [member="Nida Perl"]​

​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

It was apparent, they could not hide Thurion’s illness from them all anymore. No that they really could, and with a heavy sigh, Coci directed the girls to the quarters the Aelvar had set aside for them. “Come, we will let the boys talk for a while”. Trying to keep the mood cheery as was the day’s intention, Coci took Nida to her rooms, Ylva was already settled with Théo and soon the time would come for them all to proceed to the ceremony. It was only an hour away now.

A small cream room, open to the air with gentle curtains upon the windows greeted Nida as they entered. The scent of wild flowers plucked from the forest floor, filled the room and it was almost heady and made the mind stir.

“I hope you are pleased with the room”. Although she did her best to enjoy the moment, her mind was back with her boys, hoping the conversation would go well. It was wishful thinking of course, knowing them all as she does. Damn hot heats the lots of them.

“How are your studies going? Are you enjoying Kashyyyk?”, It had been several weeks since the pair left Midvinter for the Silvers, no doubt Nida had been deep in healing studies and by all accounts of the dispatches, the Silvers had been protecting star systems and even Kashyyyk itself. She worried for Thirdas, she always would, he is her baby boy after all no matter how old is grows.

[member="Nida Perl"] | [member="Ylva Heavenshield"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

 

[Thyrian Hearthfire]

"He does now."

After speaking with his soon-to-be daughter-in-law, he'd gone to collect Thrand from his chambers in order to get him some fresh air before the ceremony. Didn't take long for them to overhear three very familiar voices, with Thrand about to rush his best friend. But Thyrian wished to hear more of this conversation first, and kept his son in check until the opportune moment. Instead they opted for a more dignified entrance, casually strolling up to the trio.

The High King and his brother locked eyes as they came into view, the older of the two showing no hint as to his judgement of the situation he stumbled upon. Thrand however, immediately stepped up to Thirdas where both cousins got a close look at the other. They both had changed since last they were together, yet there was no mistaking one another. Neither said a thing, but Thrand was first to offer a smirk as he held out his hand. Thirdas returned the gesture, and as their hands met they immediately went into their special handshake from when they were young, ending up in a brotherly embrace.

Thyrian, meanwhile, stood before Thurion and grabbed him by the collar, pulling him up on his feet. His fiery gaze flickered as he closely examined his little brother, staring him down with the stoic authority of a king. He said nothing, but Thurion could tell he was disappointed in him. "I see no Hag in there," he finally broke the silence, his expression softening. "All I see is my little brother, who I love with all my heart." This caused Thurion to step into his embrace, nuzzling the dark fur of his cloak where he shed silent tears. "Listen to your son, Thurion; We all stand with you against the coming storm. When she comes for you, she'll have to go through us."

"He's right," Thrand chimed in, closing the circle around his uncle. "Here We Stand; Unbowed, Unbent and Unbroken, fighting for Family, Duty and Honour with Loyalty, Strength and Heart," he cited each of their family words, ever the poet. "Get too weak to stand - we'll carry you. But don't you dare give up, because we won't give up on you."

Thurion was overwhelmed. Speechless. In the end, he turned to Théo with newfound confidence, and nodded. "So be it."

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Nida Perl"] | [member="Ylva Heavenshield"]​