Private Can't Help Falling In Love (Open to Friends and Family)

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Midvinter
Heavenheim​

It bore the name of Kingswood; a piece of forest housed within the safety of the city's staunch walls, located just behind the palace known as the Lion's Den. While intended for public use, it's widely regarded by the townsfolk as the royal family's private retreat, for the High King is known to frequent it for his daily walks. A wedding is to be held here, at the height of summer with the sun at its zenith, between a long lost Son of the Lion and his fair bride. A glade had been prepared with gorgeous flowery arrangements and silks of white and gold, with a great outdoor feast to be held after the ceremony.

In spite of the tranquil scenery, the nerve of the groom had grown considerably frail these final hours, pacing back and forth bedecked in princely garments rather than an officer's uniform. Though the latter might have felt more natural, it was an relic of the past as far as he was considered. He'd pledged himself to Nida many a times; today only made it official. It differed only in that he would now also pledge himself to their family, and the little ones to come. Even so, Thirdas was nervous.

"Why am I shaking," he turned to Théodred, showing his trembling hand. "I'd feel less intimidated facing a Rancor." The older brother laughed it off, having married many years prior and recognising anxiety for what it was. An elderly man supporting himself on his cane interrupted the two princes. Bors Greythorne was their grandfather's sworn brother, and thus the King's uncle. Uncle Bors had always been old, but recent years had seen a significant decline in his health. Still, the old boar was as stubborn as ever, and even a hunched back and weak knees could not keep him from his duties. "It is time, young sires," he stood as straight as his advanced age allowed.

Thirdas took a deep breath, gave his brother a hug, and marched off towards the festive glade where their guests had begun to congregate. Not just the Perls and Heavenshields, but also the Nobles and several other friends of the family. Seeing Nina Heavenshield being courted by the Lord Commander of the royal guard pleased him greatly, for she had ever seemed a recluse with her nose too deep in books to notice anyone bearing affection.

While awaiting the arrival of the bride, there was but one person he couldn't seem to locate among the attendees.

"Where's dad?"

Nida Heavenshield Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Arden Durane

If you're a friend of the family, be it Perl or Heavenshield, you are welcome to join!​

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Operative Suit | Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Blasters | Lightsabers | Double-Bladed Lightsaber

Valery watched the festivities, her arm looped tightly through Kahlil's as her fiery gaze swept over the beautiful scene. Her dress, a flowing crimson and gold gown that shimmered in the sunlight, hugged her figure elegantly, the high neckline and golden belt accentuating her graceful stature. Her chestnut hair was styled loosely, a few strands framing her radiant face while the rest cascaded down her back in soft waves. Every detail of the wedding's lush and vibrant setting filled her with warmth, but her bright smile reflected more than just her joy for the couple — it carried a personal glow that only Kahlil could truly understand.

As her fingers lightly squeezed Kahlil's arm, she turned her gaze up to him, her amber eyes sparkling. "It's beautiful, isn't it?" she said softly, her voice brimming with emotion. "Weddings always remind me of ours... right there by the waterfall on New Cov." She paused, her smile growing as a faint blush colored her cheeks.

Her free hand lifted to brush gently against Kahlil's shoulder, her touch carrying the tenderness of a memory she cherished dearly. "Seeing this today, though, just makes me so happy for Thirdas and Nida. They deserve this kind of joy and love," she added, her gaze shifting back to the glade where the guests were gathering.


With a playful nudge to Kahlil's side, she leaned closer, whispering, "You know, I still haven't seen Thurion yet. Do you think he's hiding somewhere?" Her laughter was soft but filled with warmth, her love for the occasion evident in every word and motion.

Kahlil Noble Nida Heavenshield Thirdas Heavenshield ​

 

[Kahlil Noble]

"Hiding doesn't seem like his style, but he'll be here soon enough I imagine. There's no way he wouldn't see his son's wedding." Kahlil chuckled faintly as he stood beside Valery. This time around he was dressed in the kind of suit of the locals on Midvinter, his smile calm as he looked to Thirdas up ahead. He'd heard of his relationship with his sister, of his unwavering faith in her even as she fell prey to the same mark that had plagued him growing up. It was good they finally got their moment to actually be together.

"He'll be here soon."

Nida Heavenshield | Thirdas Heavenshield | Valery Noble

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Midvinter | OBJECTIVE: Attending Thirdas’ Wedding | POST #: 1
TAG (ALLIES) : Thirdas Heavenshield | Nida Heavenshield | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble | Arden Durane
TAG (FOES) : @

As The Starlight Sentinel touched down on the landing pads outside of Heavenheim, Caltin had a huge smile crept across his face. One he had not worn in a long time. Of course Chrysa Vanagor would not be his wife without noticing as she stepped to him and gave him the once over, checking for wrinkles, but really just being close to him. Their conversation was simple, and frankly, a long time coming.

Since the day they first landed here, after the Maw’s attempted annihilation of Tython, they have been sworn “family” and Caltin was almost as proud of Thirdas as Thurion could be. This was good for the royal family, today, not just for the impending nuptials but to move forward positively. Stepping off the ship and eventually standing on the lush green grass of Midvinter, taking in the breathtaking view of the mountainous landscape that surrounded them. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the galaxy they had just left behind, at least for the day.

As they made their way towards the capital of Heavenheim, Caltin couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over him. Midvinter was a planet they had visited many times for fun, for reunions, secluded training under the watchful eye of his of the Lion’s Guard. Now, returning for a joyous event, and a day “not to have to be a Jedi” , he felt a deep connection to the planet and its people.

They made their way through the town of Heavenheim towards the castle, pointing out memories, and catching up with several locals who recognized them. It was a festive day. The Prince was to be married! Theodred was already, and already proven to be an amazing man, a credit to his family, as was Thirdas, but this was about the woman to whom Caltin had once helped rescue off of the Imperial planet Dorin, and “The Black Lion.” Their moods were great, enjoying not only the scenery, but the happiness about coming across the younger Prince’s life, finally.

There was still one question though, on both of their minds.

“How is Thurion?”

Reaching the festive glade, and putting their gift with the others, Chrysa noticed Kahlil Noble and Valery Noble and nudged her husband who offered them a wave. They were about to make their way over, but it was the arrival of "The Black Lion" Royal Guard Captain and Prince Thirdas Heavenshield that truly caught Caltin's attention. The prince was a fierce and imposing figure, his formal black armor gleaming in the sunlight as he greeted them with a nod of his head.

Making their way over to the receiving line, Caltin pulled out the datacrystal he had in his pocket to offer it to the groom for when he had the moment to look it through. It would be a message from Connel, who was now “knee deep” in the middle of an assignment, his new “life” as a Shadow was very demanding and though he very much wanted to be there, it was just not possible. Connel very much owed Thirdas his life.

That was a conversation for another time though.

When they were about to reach the line, it was an old friend that stopped Caltin for a moment, a man to whom he respected greatly. Bors Greythorne, when he turned around, would see an offered handshake from the big man.

How’s he doing? The King’s Uncle would of course know who he was talking about, he was there when last the Vanagors were.

 

[Arden Durane]

It was a good day.

It started like any normal day for the Lord Commander. Up early making his rounds, speaking with his captains. Safety was paramount, yet he found reasons to sleep in a little bit later on some days.

Arden placed his hands together for a brief moment, offering a small prayer for good will and long life for Thirdas Heavenshield and Nida Heavenshield

They deserved it, and he couldn't be happier for them.

He stood strongly at Nina Heavenshield side, his great love. She was everything that he could have ever hoped to have. He gave her hand a small squeeze as he looked over to her with a smile.

"You look beautiful Nina." Arden spoke sweetly as he then looked onward again. Seeing several others of good note and such, the Nobles, and Caltin Vanagor. Most he knew simply by reputation, they were good.

Yes, a good day.

Caltin Vanagor Valery Noble Kahlil Noble

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

For a Zeltron who'd come from a rather glamorous family, Nida Perl did not often fuss with her appearance. Outside of ensuring that she was clean and presentable, she wore her hair and clothes in simple, neatly kept styles.

Nothing too bold, she'd told her mother and sister as Yula hefted what appeared to be an industrial-size makeup kit from her ship. Though their own heavy handed eyeliner made her a little nervous, the end result was rather fetching; a subtle, but noticeable glow that highlighted the soft, delicate features of her face.

Joza pressed her hands to either of Nida's shoulders, her proud smile taking on a bittersweet note.

"You look beautiful, my dear," she whispered, thumbs stroking the white bridal furs adorning her daughter's shoulders.

"Of course she does," Yula chimed in. "He'll probably faint dead away when he sees you!"

Nida gasped softly in reprimand. "I should hope not!" The last thing a wedding needed was the bride or groom falling ill.

Yula held her hands up in surrender. "Sorry, sor-ry," she chuckled. "We both know that won't happen. But she's right, kid – you look amazing, and it's not because we've gone an' dolled you all up as much as you'd let us." Yula's teasing grin softened into something more genuine. "You just...you feel more like yourself since you came back, y'know? You and Jawline deserve your happily ever after."

Nida turned to her sister, smaller hands grasping calloused fingers, and squeezed.

"Thank you," she whispered. "Th-thank you for saying that, Yula."

For once, the elder Perl didn't have a quip – she simply drew her little sister into a bear hug.

Thirdas Heavenshield Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Caltin Vanagor Arden Durane

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

The King stood frozen solid, staring up at the skies above. Eyes scanned every inch of blue, at times imagining the glare of a ship hurrying home only to be disappointed every time. No one was coming. She wasn't coming.

"It's our boy, Coci. Our youngest boy. If you will not come back for me, then do it for him. For all of them. Please..."

Thurion could've spent another hour staring were it not for noon's swift arrival. He wiped his eyes and, with a heavy heart, tore his gaze from the skies and headed inside to find the blushing bride. They'd been offered the ambassador's suite intended for foreign delegates and honoured guests so they might get Nida ready for her big day. The giant knocked on the door with the softest touch before stepping inside, finding Joza and Yula by her side.

He was momentarily overwhelmed, approaching slowly as if in a dream.

"Nida, my child," he bowed and kissed her hand. "You look more beautiful than ever." Though he dared not embrace her for fear of ruining her dress, he felt no such hindrances when faced with her mother and sister, hugging Yula and Joza in that order.

"I'd hoped she'd be here for this," he spoke over Jozas shoulder, finding their embrace particularly soothing. Joza was counted among his wife's dearest friends, and a friend of the family. Before the end of the day, they would be in-laws.

"Lady Nida," he turned to the bride and knelt, being reminded of the reason behind his visit in the first place. "It is customary for the father of the bride to hand over his daughter. With your mother's blessing, I'd like to offer my services in this matter, if you'll have me. In lieu of the father you never had."

He would not tarnish the happy occasion by mentioning that most despised name.

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Bors Greythorne]

The old man, refusing multiple offers to sit, leaned on his cane whilst watching his great-grandnieces and nephews run around playing, chuckling at Ylva and Théodred trying to wrangle them long enough to sit through the wedding ceremony. He eyed the strange attires of the guests from other worlds, trying to jog his memory whether they'd met before.

He did remember Caltin Vanagor however, owing his nephew and king's life to the large man. Were it not for his strange attire, one might mistake him for a Child of Midvinter. Though significantly diminished in stature and vigour since their last meeting, Bors shook the man's hand.

The old boar grunted as his hand returned to the cane.

"We all mourn Her Ladyship's disappeareance," he said in a gravelly voice. "None more so than her husband. Sometimes he sits for hours on end, staring up at the sky thinking it'll make her return sooner. A fool's errand, if you ask me; hope is all well and good, but leaving yourself disappointed each and every time only enhances the heartache."

Bors stabbed the end of his cane into the ground as a silent protest.

"I watched helplessly for many years how a broken heart gradually stole the light from his dearly-departed father's eyes, utterly unreceptive to consolation. I refuse to watch his last living son succumb to the same malady."

He sighed, his already hunched stature diminishing.

"But I still have hope. Growing up, my beloved brother was the strongest man I ever knew. Thurion Heavenshield is stronger," he spoke with deep reverence and pride.

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Midvinter | OBJECTIVE: Attending Thirdas’ Wedding | POST #: 2
TAG (ALLIES) : Thirdas Heavenshield | Nida Heavenshield | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble | Arden Durane
TAG (FOES) : @

He is. This may not be the time for it, but your nephew is the strongest person I know. There is a reason why Connel was not here, it was not because he did not want to be, and while it was “work related” there was something else that was keeping him from here. It was not how he missed being spoiled as a child by “Aunt Coci”.

This is something he would tell the Lion King though, face to face.

You’ve been incredible overseeing your nephew and his children. If for today alone, sit back and revel in that, my friend. You’ve more than earned it. Caltin did not look at Bors Greythorne in a diminished manner, or really anything other than the same way he did on that first day they had met. The man earned that position of stature in the family and on this planet. He deserved to see his sworn family happy.

While many of those who were gathered amongst themselves, Caltin was still wanting to speak to the elder. As was Chrysa, who was all too happy to point out what a great and close family it was. Truly, we are all lucky to be counted here. I understand what you are saying, and in many cases agree with you, but sometimes the Force can work in the strangest of ways.

Walking with the old man, but knowing him all too well to not want to sit, pulling out a seat for his wife, Caltin continued. You’re a great man, and your strength is strengthening him, and it all boils down to hope. You know that better than anyone though, to be sure.

Looking over those gathered, he lightly clapped his friend on the shoulder. One thing I promise you, with every fiber in my being. We’re going to get through this. We’re going to find her.... He stopped for a moment, having decided against his initial thought on the comment he had saved for the King. Bors needed this too.

Connel refuses to return here without her. His choice. He is spending every waking moment he is not on assignment, researching and following every lead he can. We’re… “determined” that way… Putting a hand on his wife’s shoulder, Chrysa put a hand on his and re-emphasized that he was not alone in this.

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Nida smiled at her father-in-law-to-be as he kissed her hand, her mother and sister in kind returning the gentle giant's embrace.

"I'd hoped so too," Joza murmured. Coci's disappearance troubled them all, but none more than her devoted husband. Perhaps, in time, the Queen would return to her home and waiting family. As they parted, the matriarch's hands would find Thurion's shoulders in a squeeze, her encouraging smile saying what words could not.

The bride's eyes widened when Thurion, the humble king that he was, knelt before her and requested the privilege of walking her down the aisle.

Nida looked to her mother. A somber thread had pulled across Joza's expression at the mention of Nida's father – a Sith of the most ill repute. Like Thurion, she too did not wish to spoil such a happy occasion with his name. A warm smile spread across her face as she looked to them both, signaling her assent with a single nod.

"If anyone has been a true father to Nida, it is you, Thurion Heavenshield."

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Operative Suit | Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Blasters | Lightsabers | Double-Bladed Lightsaber

Valery caught the wave from the Vanagors and returned it with a warm smile, her fiery gaze momentarily flicking to the pair before her senses nudged her gently. Thurion was nearby. She could feel his presence, the weight of his emotions brushing against her through the Force. There was sorrow there, but also love and pride, a testament to the man she knew him to be. She made a mental note to seek him out later — to offer her support if he needed it.

Her attention shifted back to Kahlil, her eyes sparkling as they swept over him, taking in the traditional Midvinter attire that adorned him. A playful smirk tugged at her lips as she tilted her head slightly, clearly pleased.

"You know," she began, her voice warm and teasing, "This Midvinter look suits you. Makes you look strong. Very fitting for my husband." She reached out to adjust the collar of his coat, her fingers lingering briefly as she smoothed out the fabric. Her movements were slow and deliberate, and when she finished, her gaze traveled back up to meet his.

Her fiery eyes softened as they locked with his, the smirk on her lips giving way to something more tender. "Seeing all of this... it makes me want to grab our wedding album again," she admitted, her voice quieter but rich with emotion. "To look through the pictures, relive the memories."

Her hand came to rest lightly against his chest, just over his heart. "That day was perfect," she murmured, her gaze drifting as if she were momentarily lost in the memory. But then she looked back up at him, her expression full of warmth and love. "And so is this. I'm so glad we could be here together to celebrate this with them."

She leaned in slightly, the closeness between them grounding her amidst the whirlwind of emotions and memories that the day stirred within her.

Kahlil Noble Thirdas Heavenshield Nida Heavenshield Caltin Vanagor Bors Greythorne Arden Durane ​

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

She's been among the first to visit when news of her youngest brother's return reached her, correctly predicting he would not have returned had he not been reunited with Nida. Sure enough, she was by her brother's side and together they delivered the news of their wedding plans, much to Nina's joy. The family could use some cheer since the disappearance of their matriarch — her father most of all.

Attending with her suitor and saviour was a blessing for someone whose social skills in the company of strangers could be described as lacking. Were it not for her knight in shining armour, Nina would likely have clung to her brothers for the duration of the ceremony and barely uttered a word. With Arden she felt safe enough to leave the comfort of her books and socialise.

"And you look very handsome," she blushed as she projected the words into his mind. She'd not worn a dress in a long time, having spent her teenage and young adult years on the road with Arnor and later founding the College and serving as its High Loremaster. Life at court, if there were such a thing on Midvinter, held no sway over her.

"Those are the Nobles," she asked her beloved. "W-we should welcome them, yes?"

Both arms wrapped around Arden's, Nina approached the duo of legendary Jedi with timid steps with her beau in tow. They too looked so very much in love; same as her and Arden. Same as her mother and father. It put her at ease, enough so to return Arden's arm and stand on her own, bowing to the pair.

"Masters Noble," she mouthed, the apparatus around her neck translating her intentions into words. "I don't believe we've been formally introduced. I am Nina, Thurion's eldest." She had been the first; before her father found love in Coci, she was already his daughter. "This man is Arden of House Durane, Lord Commander of the elite Lionguard."

"Father speaks highly of you, as does my baby brother." Hard to believe, perhaps, that her towering brothers were both younger than her, small and dainty as she was. "He told me he served as your huscarl for a time?"

Arden Durane Valery Noble Kahlil Noble

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Thurion stood and offered his arm to Nida, exiting the guest room with the Perls in tow. He guided them through the palace to the back door which led straight into the Kingswood. Despite being in the middle of summer, temperatures rarely reached above a mild warmth and chill winds could still make a decisive impact on how to dress. Thurion said nothing to prepare her, however; he needed only look at her and know she would have braved the mightiest maelstroms to reach the end of the road where the rest of her life awaited. Where the happiness so long denied to her lay.

He remembered that feeling well. Even now, on occasion, did his eyes glance up at the sky, hoping.

The glade that had been prepared lay at the centre of the woods, and the closer they got the more decorations would appear along the path. Ribbons and banners hung from trees and man-made archways, and the forest floor was covered in flower petals. The already serene outdoors turned evermore beautiful, until the path opened up into a veritable paradise of rippling streams and birdsong. To the side stood a great table prepared for a feast, and there, ahead, the awaited the pacing groom.

A hushness fell over the attendees, as the presence of the bride and the High King in full regalia, crown and all, silenced even the youngest of lips. All eyes were drawn to the pair, with Thirdas finally finding his footing awaiting his betrothed. Thurion gave an appreciative nod to each and every soul as he passed by, from the Nobles and his brother-by-oath Caltin and his wife Chrysa, to the Lord Commander and members of his house.

They came to a stop once having reached the groom, as the proud father took stock of his youngest boy. Their eyes met, and Thurion's lip quivered. Having yet to pass Nida into his care, he reached out with his unoccupied hand and clasped the back of Thirdas' neck. "You have your mother's eyes," he whispered, voice trembling. Black as night they were.

Thirdas smiled, deeply touched by the unexpected moment of tenderness. "She's here, father. She's in all of us."

With eyes turned a shade of red did Thurion relinquish Nida, placing her hand in his son's and giving both a reassuring squeeze. The King stepped aside, joining the others as Uncle Bors staggered on to the scene with the help of one of his great-grandnephews.

"Before we begin, be there anyone present who objects to this here union," the elder addressed the gathered, raising his cane. "If so, speak now that the beating may commence!"

Nida Heavenshield Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Caltin Vanagor Arden Durane

 

[Caltin Vanagor]

LOCATION: Midvinter | OBJECTIVE: Attending Thirdas’ Wedding | POST #: 3
TAG (ALLIES) : Thirdas Heavenshield | Nida Heavenshield | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble | Thurion Heavenshield @Arden Durane
TAG (FOES) : @

Music’s starting. With the procession beginning, Chrysa noted that there were seats available close to the Nobles and suggested they sit there. By “suggesting” she started to walk that way knowing that her husband would follow. She knew that while he was more than willing to, that part of him that never wanted to “invite himself” or “impose” on others would take over. It was endearing and irritating about him all in one huge cute package.

Of course moving near them, the social butterfly that is Chrysothemis offered warm hugs to each, Caltin offering a firm respectful handshake to Kahlil Noble and an awkward if cute moment figuring out what to do with Valery Noble , to which Chrysa smirked, rolled her eyes and nudged him, they turned and watched.

Bors Greythorne being “Bors” brought a grin and a nod from the big man.

Tell’em Bors. Tell’em. Another nudge from his wife who was paying attention to how beautiful the bride Nida Heavenshield was in between gushing over Nina Heavenshield finally finding a suitor.

Then another smirk and a look back behind them came out of Caltin before looking at his wife. You already know. She did. Connel was here too.

Realizing that he was not being “rude” but not as talkative as he would like to, Caltin leaned over to the Nobles and offered a gesture. Thank you for coming. I know that you both have known them for awhile, but still it means a lot.

 

[Connel Vanagor]

"In my experience,
when you think you
understand the Force,
you realize just
how little you know"​

[COMM TRAFFIC]
LOCATION : Midvinter - Heavenheim | OBJECTIVE : Not missing something important | TAG (FRIENDLY) : Thirdas Heavenshield | Nida Heavenshield | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble | Thurion Heavenshield | Arden Durane

Indeed Connel was here.

Did he have the time? Not if you asked him.

Would that keep him away? Not on your life.

The Shadow was indeed busy, in fact he was in the middle of an assignment right now, following a lead that took him from Nar Shadaa to Eadu. That was a conversation for later though. In the middle of each assignment was spent calling in EVERY favor, calling in EVERY confidential informant to find his “Aunt Coci”. Like father, Connel knew that she was out there and alive, but unlike father, he felt that there was an inherent danger that she was in.

Mustafar is coming with him to anyone that might be responsible for that.

An informant was waiting for him right now, but he would have to wait.

This was a day to remember, a day not to be missed, for family. The Heavenshields were not “blood” family, but “Sworn”, well that did not matter to Connel, he grew up to this and though he only met Thirdas officially a few years ago, the Black Lion was indeed his cousin, not “cousin”. On top of that, Connel literally owed his life to the man, something he had yet to truly thank him for, to truly address. That was not important, his wedding was.
He had to be here.

For Mother n Father

For Uncle Thurion Heavenshield

For Nida Heavenshield .

For Thirdas Heavenshield .

For all of them.

He was not in anything formal, but only because he had no time to do so, but Connel was dressed respectfully to the culture of the planet. He slipped into the proceedings from the rear, fully aware that Mother and Father knew he was here. So slipping up next to them and putting an arm around Mother, kissing her on the cheek and clapping Father on the shoulder, he smiled (something he rarely does anymore). Don’t act so surprised. I even brought a gift.

Leaning forward and waving to the Nobles with a whisper. Hi Masters. Glad to see you here!

Valery Noble and Kahlil Noble would each get greetings in a moment. Uncle Bors Greythorne was looking dead at him and no matter how tough the Shadow is, he did not dare cross the Great Uncle (no matter how amazing he is). .

 

[Kyra Perl]

Kyra slipped in late, having not even rsvp'd to her own sisters wedding. No one had known she was coming. She hadn't made the decision until this morning, when she realized she had conveniently drifted nearby for a job her father had put her on last week.

Meddling old fool.

She hadn't had appropriate wear on the small cargo ship, but she had managed to buy herself a nice coat that fell to her knees on her walk over. It was entirely too much for the warming weather. She tugged at her collar and took an empty seat in the back.

"Before we begin, be there anyone present who objects to this here union," the elder addressed the gathered, raising his cane. "If so, speak now that the beating may commence!"

Kyra pressed her mouth into a thin line. Another time, another place, her lips would have parted. She would have been angry, she would have been cruel. She would have been a lot of ugly things. But they were all entirely different people now, weren't they? She hoped she was.

She slumped down in her seat and watched.

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Thurion glanced to the sky, and Nida did too. She gave his arm a squeeze.

This walk down the aisle had only existed in the furthest reaches of her imagination. Nida had long since given up on the concept of living a quiet, normal life. It was not until the unlikely intervention of Tulan Kor - through his death - did she begin to reopen herself to the possibility of happiness.

Soft, violet eyes passed over those who'd gathered to celebrate her union with Thirdas. The Nobles, the Vanagors, friends and family from Midvinter and beyond the stars. Her feet nearly stalled out when her gaze next passed over a familiar head of red hair.

Nida's lips twitched into a soft, grateful smile as Yula slid next to Kyra and slung an arm over the youngest Perl's shoulder. Then, she turned toward Thirdas.

Toward their future.

Any nerves that quivered beneath the surface abruptly vanished the moment Thurion passed her hand to Thirdas. She laughed quietly as Bors raised his cane, then let her attention settle on her husband-to-be.

No words had been spoken yet between them, but her gentle, loving expression said what her voice could not.

Thirdas Heavenshield Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Caltin Vanagor Arden Durane Kyra Perl

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Accepting Nida's hand when offered had been the easiest thing in the world; the instant their skin touched all nerves were immediately silenced, replaced with a bubbly excitement. Nothing had ever felt more right than to stand as they did now, facing each other with no more hesitations or duties getting in the way. They were finally free to live and love, having defeated every dark force trying to separate them. Whatever happens from here on out, they were victorious.

"Very well," said Bors after a moment's pause, lowering his cane. "Then may the Master of Ceremonies assume his station!" To everyone's surprise, the old boar was not, in fact, the Master of Ceremonies, as he shuffled off to take a well-earned seat among the others. A hooded stranger appeared, too tall and vigorous of gait to be some greybeard. Thirdas eyed the stranger with scepticism right up until the man assumed his position and removed the raggedy hood and disheveled robes to reveal long, brilliant-white hair and green attire inlaid with golden leaves in the meticulous style of the elves.

Thirdas stared in awe and genuine shock at the sudden appearance of his cousin wearing a devilish grin. "Thrand," he exclaimed at seeing his childhood friend, fighting back tears and the urge to punch him in his perfect face in equal measure. The presence of Thrand Hearthfire had been kept a secret known only to Thurion and Bors, all in a bid to surprise Thirdas.

"Did you really think I would not attend my best friend's wedding," said Thrand, King in the Woods and Prince-Consort of Queen Ióunn of the Aelvar. He held out his hand, turning the two of them ten years old as they performed their secret handshake, after which Thirdas could not have hugged his cousin soon enough. Thrand returned the embrace, laughing.

The Prince-Consort turned his emerald gaze upon the bride, bowing to kiss her hand. "Lady Perl. At long last do we meet, and not a moment too soon." Nothing wishing to hold up the proceedings any longer, Thrand produced a silk ribbon to be wrapped around the bride and groom's hands.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here in the blessed light of the Dawnbringer to see this man and this woman be joined in holy matrimony. I ask now that the bride and groom face each other and speak their vows to last the rest of their lives."

Thirdas turned towards Nida as all his focus was on her once more, shutting out all else.

"Nida, I... I've dreamed of this day since the moment I set eyes on you. We've already shared so much; joys, sorrows, hardships, victories and defeats. But our lives have never been ours to share; our duties always lay elsewhere. Several times, I thought I'd lost you and there would be no more happiness in the world. But you always proved me wrong; that even in our darkest moments, what we have cannot be undone. My long war is ended, and all that remains of me I entrust to you now. You are everything I've ever wanted or needed. You are in my every breath, thought, and heartbeat. I will love you and care for you until the sun rises in the west and sets in the east, and the seas go dry and the mountains blow in the wind like leaves."

Nida Heavenshield Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Caltin Vanagor Kyra Perl Arden Durane

 

[Kahlil Noble]

"After all they've been through, I'm glad they get to have this moment with each other."

Kahlil chuckled softly, his eyes watching Nida and Thirdas. This moment was about them, most of all. He did dip his head in greetings to Nina and Caltin, but the truth was the Jedi Master would talk only after the ceremony. He didn't want this to be about anyone else but the happy couple. He idly tightened an arm around Valery to keep her close. Both he and Nida had been scared by their shared father, tainted by cruelty.

He was just so happy to see that they both had found happiness.

Nida Heavenshield | Thirdas Heavenshield | Valery Noble | Caltin Vanagor | Kyra Perl | Arden Durane

 

[Valery Noble]

​

Outfit: Operative Suit | Jedi Jumpsuit | Wedding Ring
Weapons: Blasters | Lightsabers | Double-Bladed Lightsaber

Valery chuckled softly as she turned to Caltin and his wife, her fiery gaze flickering with warmth. She didn't hesitate to step in and offer both of them a hug, despite Caltin's obvious awkwardness about it. She smirked knowingly as she pulled back, giving his arm a small squeeze before turning to Chrysothemis with a far easier embrace.

"It's good to see you both here," she murmured, her voice warm.

Before she could say more, a soft presence caught her attention, and she turned to see Nina approaching, arm wrapped around the man she introduced as Arden Durane. Valery greeted them with a warm smile and a slight bow of her head, immediately noting the quiet strength in Nina's posture — the same strength she had seen in her father before.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Nina," Valery said genuinely before her smile deepened. "And yes, Thirdas served as my huscarl for a time. He and his men were fantastic, fiercely loyal and skilled warriors. But…" she glanced toward him now, her expression growing softer, "I'm much happier seeing him freed from that oath, so he can live a life of his own choosing — with family, with love."

Her gaze lingered on Thirdas and Nida, watching as they stood together at the heart of the ceremony. After all they had endured, all the battles and pain, they had made it here.

Valery sighed, feeling the emotion swelling in her chest, and without a word, she wrapped herself around Kahlil, leaning into him with quiet affection as his arm tightened around her waist. Through their bond, he would feel it all — her happiness for them, the warmth of witnessing love triumph, but also the raw depth of her own emotions. She wasn't just happy for them; she was reliving her own vows, feeling every ounce of love she held for the man standing beside her.

He was her anchor, keeping her steady when the emotions became too overwhelming and might get her to cry. She hugged him a little tighter, her head briefly resting against his shoulder as she exhaled a breath of quiet contentment.

This was their moment, and Valery would cherish every second of it.

Kahlil Noble Thirdas Heavenshield Nina Heavenshield Caltin Vanagor Bors Greythorne Arden Durane @nida​