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

[Nida Heavenshield]

Nida looked on, pleased, at the sudden appearance of Thrand and the ensuing handshake between the pair of men. While she had never met Thirdas' cousin, she knew of him through the stories he'd shared with her.

Her smile grew with genuine warmth as the King in the Woods greeted her. "Likewise, Prince Thrand. I do look forward to hearing tales of the Aelvar." She returned his gesture with a bow of her head.

The silk ribbon, now wound around their clasped hands, felt both heavy and light at the same time. The weight of their choice to move forward was not a smothering one, but something warm and comfortable. When Thirdas began to speak, her gaze drifted from the ribbon to his face.

There were times where he had expressed his lack of finesse with words. Now, vows flowed from his lips like poetry.

Nida had never been one for large ceremonies, so they'd agreed to keep their wedding small and intimate, with family and close friends. When it came her turn to speak, she took a moment to pause, her free hand rising to wipe an unshed tear from the corner of her eye.

"Long and winding has our journey been, Thirdas. You've been my protector since the day we met, where you helped a young girl up after she'd tripped in the snow. No matter where life took us, you've never left my heart. I've carried you with me always.."

Her hand, small and pink, tightened against larger, calloused fingers.

"Loving you has been the easiest thing in the galaxy. I will protect and cherish everything that we have, and everything that we will create."

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

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

It's true, Thirdas never considered himself a wordsmith of any particular worth, for he neither patience nor inclination to partake in the art of poetry or flowery language. He considered himself a brute force; a blunt instrument with which to hammer the enemy into submission. A dog of war to be let loose against his foes. Deeds were his words.

But old wounds, be they of the body or the soul, have a way of changing a man. So too does a wounded heart, and he'd carried his for a long time. The thrill of battle no longer held sway over him; it had merely sustained him whilst separated from what mattered most, and she was standing right in front of him. Whatever remained of him, he would give it all to her, forever.

And thus it was, that speaking from a mended heart what he had wished to tell her the countless moments he devoted a thought to her memory proved the easiest words he'd ever spoken. He stared down at her with a passion and intensity few could hope to match. The fixed gaze of a lion.

"The vows have been exchanged," spoke Thrand of House Hearthfire, hands raised to the skies. "We call on the Dawnbringer to christen this union in the light of the heavens, that it might never fail or falter." Right on cue, the sun hit its zenith and its rays penetrated the canopy, bathing the happy couple in a beam of light. Thirdas' breath got caught in his throat, as if he could reach out and tough the divine. As if his paternal grandfather had embraced him in the flesh for the very first time.

From where he was seated, the old man Bors sat back and closed his eyes as a rare smile graced his wrinkly lips, for he knew his brother walked among them. Likewise did Thurion reach for his daughter Nina's hand in lieu of his wife, overcome with emotion.

"The Sun God grants his blessing," confirmed the Second of His Name, bowing his snow-white head as he stepped back. "You may now share love's true kiss."

Thirdas' nerves made another lightning-fast appearance, but as he shut out all else but her, the task became the simplest imaginable. He leaned forward and placed his lips against hers for their first-ever kiss as husband and wife. Nothing he'd ever done in life had ever held such conviction as this public declaration of their love, immortalised in the minds and hearts of those gathered.

"Ever did the fates conspire against us," he whispered to Nida whilst their foreheads touched and they became surrounded by cheering applause. "From this moment on, our fate is our own. It is what we make of it." He kissed her again, this time with joy and vigour.

They then turned to face their audience, among whom tears and smiles were found aplenty.

"Lords and Ladies of the Realm, I present to you now: Thirdas and Nida of House Heavenshield — Prince and Princess of Midvinter!"

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

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Nida welcomed the way Thirdas looked to her. She reflected back warmth and adoration with her own gentle bearing, but it was no less potent.

Only when Thrand began to speak did Nida reluctantly shift her gaze from Thirdas to his cousin, then to the ribbons of light that scattered around them. The Sun God's blessing was almost prismatic, crowning the couple in his favor.

A soft breath of relief passed her lips. Though Thirdas had been quick to assure her otherwise, a small part of Nida had been a little nervous that her status as an outsider to Midvinter – an alien with blushed skin – would make her unacceptable in some way. The rays of light streaming around them put that anxiety to rest.

A mauve flush touched the bride's cheeks at the implication of a public kiss, but she did not waver. As Thirdas leaned down, Nida pointed herself upon her toes and met him halfway. They'd shared this gestured a hundred times before now, but in the presence of those who'd only ever loved them, it felt like something both new and familiar.

Ever did the fates conspire against us," he whispered to Nida whilst their foreheads touched and they became surrounded by cheering applause. "From this moment on, our fate is our own. It is what we make of it."

"And we shall make a happy home of it," she whispered. Yula whooped loudly as they kissed, inspiring another rush of blood to Nida's face.

When they turned to face their family and friends, she beamed, feeling nothing less than whole.

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

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

And there sat the High King, surrounded by family and friends both near and far and wide, watching the last child of his blood embark on that most beautiful and wondrous journey together with the woman he loved. Though his wife was not present, the lonesome Lion wept enough for the both of them at the joyous occasion, being the first to rise in celebration of the couple with thunderous applause. He stepped up to Thirdas and Nida, arms wide enough to embrace the two of them.

"My son," whispered Thurion past his ear. "You do me proud, little cub. And your mother, if she were here... She'd be proud too." Words that will break the walls of any young man, reducing Thirdas — veteran of a thousand battles — to a quivering toddler in his father's arms, as if no time had passed since the dawn of his life. "I love you, dad."

The High King kissed the Prince Reborn on the cheek before turning to face the crowd, triumphantly holding up the ribbon-bound hands of Thirdas and Nida. He laughed then, a grin reaching from ear to ear.

On the day of his coronation, years ago, he'd named his children by what they represented to him. Nina, his eldest, he'd named his Source of Joy. Théodred, his firstborn son, he'd named his Fount of Strength. Thirdas, youngest among his cubs, he'd named his Last Hope; that one day his wayward child would return the man he knew him to be. Today, his hopes were realised.

"Come, my kith and kin! Let the feast begin!"

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

 

[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) : @

Standing up quickly, he applauded the new, happy couple. That is what this was about. Being able to celebrate two people finding love, even in some of the most difficult times. It made him think about that special day that he and Chrysa shared, and judging by her arm slipping in and around his, she was too.

Once the receiving line had begun, the trio (Connel wasn’t able to be there much longer, but would not miss this) had made their way into and through much of the line until coming across the bride and groom. Caltin first came along to Nida as Chrysa was giving Thirdas a warm hug extolling how happy she was for him. With a hug of his own to the bride, he smirked. I hope you don’t plan on a honeymoon to Dolin…

A bad joke, maybe, but a humorous reference to the last time that they were there.

Then came Thirdas. First a bright, wide, proud smile, a firm handshake pulled into a hug. Look at you. SO happy for you nephew. You’ve always been a great man, and now… you are on the precipice of even more. “Proud” is not enough to say right now.

When it came up to the Lion King himself, Caltin bowed out of respect, he knew it was not necessary, considering all they had been through but he did anyway because of the man’s position and the proceedings.As the Lion King approached, Caltin couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Despite the formality of the occasion, there was a palpable warmth in the air. The Lion King's presence commanded respect, yet his eyes sparkled with genuine happiness for the couple. Caltin knew this day would be remembered for years to come.

When offered, he would hug his “sworn brother” and simply say She knows, and is proud of him, and of you, you know she is. Today is a wonderful day and I couldn’t be happier for you myself. With a genuine smile, he let go, so Chrysa could do the same.

Connel was giving both the Bride and the Groom each a hug, letting slip the words I’m going to find her. I promise you. You know she is proud of you.

When he finally came up to his “uncle” he bowed his head almost in shame. I’m sorry. I promised myself I wouldn’t shame myself in front of you without finding Aunt Coci… I’m doing everything I can… In a showing of emotion he had not experienced since his younger days, Connel’s eyes were welling up with tears. He SHOULDN’T feel the “failure” that he did, he knew this, but Connel still did. I won’t fail you.

Caltin put a hand on his son’s back. He was his own man and had to make this speech himself. Chrysa wanted to comfort her “little boy” but put a hand on his shoulder. I’m sorry, I’m making a scene and I shouldn’t.

 

[Arden Durane]

The day was filled with much happiness, however partially filled with a small sense of sadness. They all felt the loss from the disappearance of Coci, however above all it was Thurion that felt this loss the most. Rightfully so, Arden could only trust to hope that she would one day return fill the void that was left.

Arden gave a small nod in meeting of the Noble family, known by reputation alone and this was his first meeting with them. Give his upmost respect and acknowledgment to them both before he looked back to NIna and the event continued. Arden look on proudly and happily as the two conveyed their love and commitment to one another. And such the union was locked in and applause erupted from all that were present. Arden's hand's came together as he clapped for the duo, a joyous union that would give Midvinter some much needed goodness.

"We should offer our congratulations to the happy couple." Arden said with a smile as he looked over to Nina.


Thirdas Heavenshield Nida Heavenshield Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Caltin Vanagor

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

Nina looked on with equal parts pride and joy, seated between her father and her betrothed. They'd shared a chuckle at the unexpected reveal of Cousin Thrand as the officiant, rather than Uncle Bors or even the High King himself. It was during the exhange of vows that she felt her father's hand upon hers, and she turned to him expecting perhaps a tear and a proud smile. She did not expect to have her heart broken in an instant.

Her dear old papa looked at her, and there was such unfathomable, profound sadness in his eyes — those wonderful, cheerful eyes she'd known all her life. She squeezed his mighty hand, hers akin to a child's in comparison, and made the sign for I know with her other. Long did she fear for her father's noble heart; that it would finally shatter from one loss too many and all the kindness and gentleness he was known for would cease to be, replaced by eternal grief and numbing pain. That it would lay him low whilst the blades of his foes cannot.

But when she mustered a smile for him, her father made the same attempt for her, and the light seemed to return to his eyes. I'll always have a smile for you, Snowflake, he signed back at her. Nina wept then, nuzzling into her papa's shoulder. Even now, while his world was shattered, he was still going to be their rock. He kissed her forehead, comforting her in time to witness the kiss that would complete the ceremony.

"Yes," she sniffed in reply to Arden's suggestion. "Yes, that we should."

Allowing the King a moment with his youngest, Nina stepped up to the blushing bride and embraced her, a fellow creature of less-than-impressive stature amongst such giants. "I was never worried," she told her with a lovely grin. "I knew this day would come. Thirdas doesn't know when to quit once his mind is set," she added with a soft laugh. She took Nida's hands in hers. "Welcome, dear sister, to your new home."

When approaching the groom, the eldest sibling saw in him the striking resemblance to their beloved father, but also the swaddled babe she once held on the fractured remains of Corellia. She reached up to cup his cheeks, staring into the eyes of their mother. There was an unspoken understanding between them, and she needed not tell him she was happy for him. Théodred completed the trio of Lion Cubs present, the three siblings embracing one another.

Together, they were unbreakable.

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

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

When approached by Caltin, Chrysa, and their son Connel, the High King dismissed their respectful gesture with a gentle wave of his hand. While he realised his regal appearance, crown and all, might inspire adherence to royal etiquette or protocol, he would never demand fealty from members of his own family. The mere concept of being held above others was foreign to him, for he was raised a Jedi and a Jedi in spirit he would remain.

Caltin initiated the embrace, and Thurion replied in kind. To someone who was always the wise elder in the room, having an equal with which to relate was always appreciated. Chrysa embraced him as well.

But when it came to Connel, Thurion saw in him a young man burdened with feelings of failure. He stumbled over his words trying to apologise, prompting his uncle to step in. He grabbed Connel by his shoulders, took measure of the man, and pulled him into a hug. To the Lion, he saw a child in need of comfort.

"You couldn't fail me if you tried," he told him. "Knowing you're out there, trying to find her... It brings this old man comfort at night; when the chill wind howls and darkness reigns supreme, your efforts are a ray of hope, my boy. Regardless of the ultimate outcome, I will always be indebted to you."

Releasing Connel, Thurion motioned towards the set table. "Come, let us feast our troubles away for just one day."

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

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

As the ceremony concluded, Nida let out a soft squeak of surprise as she and Thirdas were swept into Thurion's arms. Midvinter hugs were something she was slowly growing used to, and a trickle of soft, good-natured laughter left her.

"I will be sure not to," Nida smiled to Caltin's joking suggestion as they embrace. "Thank you, Masters and Knight Vanagor. We're truly honored that you could be here."

Nida nearly mirrored Nina's grin, chuckling quietly as she squeezed her hand back. "Thank you, Nina. I'm pleased to say that on this day, I've not only gained a husband, but a sister, as well."

Yula threw her arms around the shoulders of the bride and groom, beaming between them.

"Good work, Jawline. Just don't put me down first on your babysitting list, yeah? Denon aint' very kid-friendly."

While Nida blushed, gently admonishing her sister, Joza approached the happily wedded pair with an even smile. She took each of their hands in her own, her tone smooth and steady.

"The galaxy has not been kind to you two. See to it that you are to each other – in that, I have no doubts." Joza turned to Thirdas, her voice dropping. "Today, I have a son. Promise me that you will look after her."

It was not a question, but a statement, a shared understanding between two new relatives. With one last smile, Joza squeezed their hands, then drifted over to Thurion.

"It appears we may soon share a grandchild," she murmured with a thread of amusement.

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

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

As soon as the heartfelt embrace of the Heavenshield siblings came and went, it was followed up with Yula's typically irreverent well-wishes. Thirdas returned the hug; though his interactions with the eldest Perl had been limited, she had proven a formidable ally and utterly fearless in defense of her sisters. It was a trait the veteran soldier could relate to, for obvious reasons.

He smirked at the use of his old nickname. "Thanks, Yula. I don't plan on letting this one out of my sight, let alone the little ones to come." Thirdas wrapped an arm around Nida's waist, pulling her close just as the Matriarch herself appeared before the happy couple. The levity of Yula's interaction was replaced with motherly concern, with Thirdas resisting the urge to bow his head in deference.

She spoke with such sincerity, ever with that hint of a subtle threat behind her words — as if she could unmake him with but a conscious thought. He never faulted her for being overly protective when it came to her littlest one, nor the sky-high expectations placed upon her son-in-law.

Her interaction was brief, but it was what she'd referred to him as that truly stuck with him.

"On my honour," he swore solemnly, watching the Matriarch sidle up to the father of the groom. Thirdas had wanted to finish his sentence in her presence, but the last few syllables had gotten stuck in his throat which suddenly seemed so parched. A lump had formed in his chest and the sting of tears in his eyes threatened to overwhelm him. In none but Nida's presence did he manage to utter the word that had lingered on his tongue, finding great sense of relief, but also profound longing, in doing so.

"...Mother."

As guests started drifting towards the feast set up in advance at the King's bidding, Thirdas observed the faces of family members and friends he'd made over the course of his life. Though he took great joy in their being there, his heart sank upon realising his mother hadn't been there to witness her baby boy on the most important day of his life. Shoulders slumped, and Thirdas shrunk into the form of a child missing his mother.

The touch of his cousin's hand, strong and familiar, upon his shoulder forced him to turn his head. Though older, Thrand's features had not noticeably changed in the years since they last met. He was always the more handsome of the two, his angelic countenance perfectly contrasting Thirdas' rought and rowdy carelessness growing up. Perhaps the only person, save his mother and Nida herself, who knew his heart best.

"Come, let's get some warm food in that black hole of yours," he told him with a perfect grin. "Groomin' is a draining business, I should know!"

Thirdas gently stabbed his cybernetic elbow into Thrand's ribs. "Fine! Let's see if elven cuisine has ruined your sense of taste, Not-Quite-King."

He looked to Nida, black eyes sparkling with eternal love for the woman he could now lawfully call wife, and took a deep breath as he smiled. "On to our next adventure, Lady Heavenshield."

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