Private From Whence We Came

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

En route to Midvinter​

A cold splash of water did what it could to combat the anticipation, as Thirdas ran his hand through his freshly cut hair. He barely recognised himself in the mirror, a face he'd not seen in decades staring back at him. Nida had taken the morning to give him a haircut, ending the reign of the long, intricate warrior's braid to mark his transition from soldier to civilian. It had proven an emotional experience, as Thirdas watched an integral part of his identity be sheared from him one piece at a time, leaving only the young prince that departed his realm so many years ago. Between the Bryn war and his subsequent Ironside Crusade, personal hygiene had become a mere suggestion. What was the point, if you'd only get caked in blood and dirt the next day?

The face now staring back at him still wore well-earned scars, but was otherwise clean and healthy-looking. He'd even trimmed his beard for the occasion. A fresh start demanded a fresh look.

He glanced to his right, fingertips touching the empty, mechanical socket where an arm should be. He'd never get used to the feeling, but he didn't feel traumatised by the loss as he once did. Upon exiting the bathroom, he found Nida sitting on the bed, staring out the viewport. Thirdas sat down next to her, taking her hand in his. The moment he did, his knee started bouncing up and down.

He was nervous.

"The countless times I've stood on the precipice of battle, I was never this nervous. I almost forgot what it feels like," he uttered softly, resting his head upon hers. The light of the hyperspace jump lit up their cabin with blues and whites as both eagerly anticipated the appearance of Midvinter.

"Did you stay in touch with your family during your exile? Your mother? Your sisters?" He stared ahead as their fingers entwined. "I wish I had. We've not spoken since Kyra and I brought you to my father. I felt I couldn't afford the distraction, what with the war and all. When it ended, I still couldn't bring myself to see them."

He turned to her, the light of hyperspace dancing in her eyes.

"I still needed to find you."

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

"That is natural," she murmured. Nida's head shifted beneath his own, violet strands nuzzling against blonde. "You've been away for some time. I cannot imagine Thurion embracing you with anything less than a father's love."

The healer closed her eyes and breathed in his scent, his warmth. Her free hand raised to slide into his hair. Then it lifted, shorter strands dancing from delicate pink fingers.

Removing his braids had been a choice; Nida would not demand it of him, but privately, both the act of shearing and the symbolism had soothed her. Together, she and Thirdas had made the decision to step away from roles of active duty in service to the family they had hoped to build. If he had chosen to remain a warrior, she would have made her peace with that.

"No." She continued to comb her touch through his hair, occasionally pausing to brush a stray lock back in place. "I rarely did. Less than my mother would have liked, I'd imagine." Yula had been easier to get a hold of than Kyra, for there were some things that a young woman preferred to discuss with her sister rather than her mother.

Nida raised her head and pressed a kiss to Thirdas' jaw. She murmured against his skin.

"You've always been handsome, but shorter hair suits you well."

The streaks of hyperspace halted, sudden enough to draw their eyes toward the viewport. On a speckled background of starlight sat Midvinter, all icy blue and white hues against the inky voice of space.

"There it is," Nida whispered and squeezed Thirdas' hand. "Home."

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

He looked down at her and smiled at her compliment, only to be drawn towards the viewport the same moment as she. As if time slowed to a crawl, the streaks of light ceased one after the other, until they were presented with the celestial body that was Midvinter; shining like a pale-blue jewel against the backdrop of space. Exactly how he'd remembered seeing it upon setting out with Nida in their youth.

Thirdas stood, then staggered towards the window, pressing his one palm against the transparisteel at the centre of the planet. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, then opened them again. She was still there. All at once he felt that deep-rooted homesickness that coursed through the blood of all Her children be lifted off his shoulders, as if allowed to come up for air after minutes of being kept underwater. He pressed his forehead against the glass, holding back a tear.

"Home..."

Wiping his eyes, he looked over his shoulder towards the black case sitting on the bed. Right foot clanked against the floor as he stepped around the foot of the bed, undid the clasps of the case, and lifted the heavy lid. Within rested his arm, enveloped in thick foam rubber to keep it still during transport. It too shone anew with fresh polish.

Thirdas look up at Nida, unable to mask a cheeky smirk.

"Give me a hand, would you?"

​

A large duffel bag swung over his shoulder, Thirdas looked to Nida standing beside him as the ramp came down. In his eyes she would find wordless expressions of not only love, but immense gratitude. For being with him. For taking him home.

The whiteness was blinding, but that wasn't what struck him first. It was the sound of horse-drawn carts; the chit-chat of neighbors; the ringing of a hammer against anvil; the hustle bustle of everyday life. And above it all, a lone bird chirping from a nearby rooftop. He recognised that birdsong from deep-seated recollections of his youth.

Stepping out into the sun with Nida in hand, the lost Prince took his breath of Midvinter air, clear and crisp like no other; its natural chill invigorating the lungs and the entire chest. He smiled then, full and bright from cheek to cheek. Their transport had set down in the middle of Heavenheim, granted access to one of its landing pads. Everywhere he turned was a familiar sight; a cascade of memories whichsoever way he looked.

He hadn't expected to be recognised, and so wasn't annoyed when the first fellow native he came across shoved his way past whilst carrying a wicker basket of today's catch, heading for the market. As he and Nida took their first steps together on native soil since their youth, Thirdas came to a momentary stop when his eye caught the rich fabrics of a banner fluttering in the wind.

A golden lion, rampant against a blue field. His father's house. His house.

"Let's try at home first," he turned to Nida. "He'll use any excuse to avoid wearing the crown."

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Though not of Valkyri blood, Nida too drank deep from Midvinter's brisk atmosphere. It was a pleasant break from the stale, recirculated air of the cabin.

She smiled to Thirdas, and squeezed his hand.

Nida had never felt quite at home on her native Zeltros. It was too colorful, too loud for someone so quiet. The denizens of Midvinter were known for their boisterous nature, but both their planet and way of life held an air of tranquility that Zeltros just couldn't capture.

"Oh, is that not the merchant we purchased our rug from?"

Nida lifted her free hand, gesturing toward a plump, middle aged woman flanked by several decorative woven carpets. She was flitting her way expertly between three potential customers who'd shown interest in her craft, voice booming across the road as their haggling reached a fever pitch.

That rug had sat in the little apartment they'd shared on Kashyyyk, back when the Silver Jedi had been a major galactic power. A faraway look danced in her eyes as she recalled memories of their early relationship. Her attention returned to the present as she felt Thirdas stop.

She followed his gaze to the banner as it gently rippled in the breeze, to the golden lion emblazoned on a swath of blue. The sigil of House Heavenshield. Soon to be her house.

"Let's," she agreed. "Have you told him of our visit?"

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

He followed her gaze towards the merchant, vaguely recalling the aged woman that sold them that rug from ages past. "Oh yeah, that is her. Nothing's really changed here, has it?" Other than the size of the city, for he could not recall a tertiary wall the last time he walked these streets, expanding the city another mile in every direction. Nor did he recall the city guard to patrol said streets quite so actively.

Thirdas put his arm around her, giving her a loving squeeze. "I miss that old apartment too. Our new home will be just as cosy, if perhaps a bit bigger."

As for having alerted his father of their return; "I have not," he replied as they resumed their journey through the city. "I wanted to surprise him and mum, or we'd be met with an entourage of honour guard and full pomp and circumstance the moment we disembarked."

Passing by the ever-busy marketplace, where tradesmen bartered goods from across the realm, from essentials like food and firewood to extravagances such as precious stones and jewelry, his eyes fell upon the duo of towering statues standing eternal vigil. His grandfather and uncle respectively, both former High Kings whose noble sacrifices ensured a future for their people. The future he and Nida would get to enjoy, at long last.

There would be a time for proper obeisance, for there was a High King still living who deserved it more.

Leaving the busier streets behind, the oldest parts of Heavenheim were considered the finer quarters as people did not live so cramped and life was not quiet so hectic. These quarters were home to the very first settlers, chief among them the Heavenshield residence looking out to the sea. It was no kingly palace by any means, but a humble family duplex with a porch and a garden surrounded by a picket fence.

It was this sight that greeted the couple upon turning the corner. As they walked the perimeter, Thirdas let his fingers trace the wooden fence all the way towards the front gate, which he pushed open only to diligently close behind them. A stone path led up to the front porch, upon which did the patriarch of House Heavenshield gently slumber in his favourite rocking chair, wrapped inside a blanket. The feline napping in his lap lifted its head and yawned, at first unable to discern who had come to visit.

A moment later, the house cat sprung from its master's lap and bounced happily towards Thirdas, who knelt to pet the overjoyed furball. He plucked it off the ground and cradled it in his arms like he would a child, introducing it to Nida. "Hello, Bubby," he giggled, nuzzling and kissing him. "This is Nida, remember her? You were so small at the time, yes you were!"

To the slumbering king, the sudden commotion was barely registered and he remained as he was in his chair for the time being. It wasn't until Thirdas, the joyful reunion fading as he set eyes on his father, stepped on to the porch that the creaking floor boards finally stirred Thurion from his rest. He placed his hand upon his father's and knelt before him, the king still in his rocking chair. For a time, the older man stared incredulously, unable to tell dream from reality.

"Papa," said Thirdas, looking up into that face he'd known since the day he could see; visibly aged and worn down by time and toil, yet still the same. "Papa, it's me. I've returned. I'm back," he said, fearing his father had not recognised him.

The old man said nothing, but rather leaned forward as if to get a closer look, then reached for his son's face, clasping it between his hands, and kissed him on the forehead. Thirdas fell apart there and then, a steady stream of tears as his father embraced him, holding him to his chest. Thirdas clinged to him as he always would, his heart singing with joy and ache all at once.

"My boy," said Thurion as if an enormous weight had been lifted. "I knew you would come back to me."

The Patriarch looked up at Nida, smiling warmly as he reached for her hand and placed a tender kiss upon it. "Nida, sweet child... You brought him back to me."

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Nida hummed thoughtfully. "I'm certain we will need more space than we had before, if we're to raise children."

It was a pleasant sentiment, one that she was still wrapping her mind around. For so long they'd dreamed of starting a family, and now they were on the cusp of that reality. Children could be reared in cramped conditions - she'd seen as much during her travels - but it cemented her opinion that each child would need a space of their own.

Thirdas revealed that this visit was intended to be a surprise, to which Nida tilted her head curiously. Then, she chuckled. It was easy to imagine Thurion and Coci, proud parents, welcoming home their son with all the gusto they could muster.

"I can see why you'd prefer something a tad more quiet."

As they walked, the bustling main road gradually gave way to calmer streets. It wasn't long before the pair would approach Thirdas' childhood home, overlooking Heavenheim's frigid waters.

At last, they came upon the King, asleep on his front porch with a cat curled in his lap. The feline was the first to wake and greet the Prince.

Witnessing a large man such as Thirdas interacting with a little cat had her breaking into a grin. Nida held the fingers of one hand out to Bubby for him to assess.

"He's grown," she mused as a little pink nose sniffed her fingers. Deciding that she was safe, Bubby rubbed the side of his face against her hand, to which Nida responded by scratching behind his ear. "And patient."

Creaking floorboards heralded the arrival of his son, and Thurion stirred before staring in disbelief. It seemed as if all of Midvinter was holding its breath for a moment, and then exhaled in joy.

As father and son embraced, Nida wiped a tear from her lash line. It had been so very long since she and Thirdas had come to Midvinter, but this reunion was especially momentous for her love.

"Thurion," she inclined her head to him as he kissed her hand. "I've missed you. It is an honor to accompany Thirdas back to his home."

She paused, looking to her fiancée. Nida's smile, warm as the sun, reached her eyes.

"To our home."

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Thirdas returned Nida's loving gaze, only interrupted by Thurion scrambling to get out of his chair which prompted his littlest one to lend a hand. An unflinching iron grip from his cybernetic prosthesis helped the elder to his feet, still standing a head taller than his son and dwarfing the Zeltron. Thurion then pulled both of them into a proper hug, arms wide enough to easily fit the pair. As it concluded, he brought his hands together in a celebratory gesture.

"Then the moment is finally upon us," said the father, grinning from ear to ear. "We shall begin preparations immediately! It's been much too long without a wedding in the family. And we should find you two a place to live! Have you an idea of where to start looking?"

In his excitement, Thurion was halfway through the front door when Thirdas raised a hand, amused by the sudden pep in his father's step. "Dad, relax. We're not getting married tomorrow," he chuckled. "When's mom coming home? I can't wait to see the look on her face." The Patriarch halted and did not move for a good few seconds, staring blankly into the empty house. His shoulders slumped, and all at once the joy of their reunion became a distant memory.

The door creaked on its hinges as he turned to his son, too ashamed to meet his gaze. Thirdas' smile faded then as well.

"Thirdas, your mother... S-she... She's gone," he struggled to explain. "She left here one morning, and hasn't returned since. It's been... two years, going on three." Having to watch his son's face go from disbelief to shock was heartbreaking, but there was little point in putting off the inevitable. "We've looked everywhere. The Dawnguard are still out there searching in force, putting all else on hold until they locate their Grandmaster."

Thirdas' face grew dark in mood, shouting his dismay to the gods as he spun around and threw a punch at one of the wooden columns connecting portico and stairs, completely snapping it in half. Thurion grabbed hold of his boy, who rejected his father's comfort at first but soon gave in.

"Son, look at me," he cupped his cheeks. "I'm not giving up on her, and I know you won't either. Unless we learn otherwise, she's still somewhere out there. Do you understand me, soldier?" Thirdas, though still visibly shaken, pulled himself together. "Aye, sir."

​

The hours passed by. Though their return had been stymied by the unwelcomed revelation of his mother's disappearance, as well as the tragic news of Bubby's brother Bibby having passed away in his absence, by the time he and Nida lay by the fireplace wrapped inside a fur Thirdas had had time to digest it all. It wasn't all bad news; his eldest sister Nina had gotten engaged, and his cousin Thrand had been given a son.

Having been treated to dinner and dessert, Thirdas lay with his head in Nida's lap staring into the dancing flames. In this instance, he was of two minds; he hated himself now more than ever for having stayed away this long, but on the other hand his decision to do so had led him to this moment, with Nida by his side. It just wasn't fair that he should have to choose between his mother and the love of his life.

"I just wanted her to see us together," he confessed, soothed by her fingers in his hair. "That her patience with me growing up had finally paid off. That I'd returned a better man than the angry kid who left home at sixteen. That I'd finally found happiness."

Muffled hammerstrokes from outside the front door only compounded his shame; that his father should take the evening to fix his mistake made in anger, same as in his youth. "I won't deny that part of me now wishes we'd never come here, that I might remain in blissful ignorance for a while longer."

Thirdas turned to lay on his back, dejectedly staring up at Nida.

"I'm sorry for spoiling our joyous return."

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

As they lay by the fire, Nida slowly ran her fingers through Thirdas' hair. One happy revelation had been followed by a heavy blow, then another.

Guilt swept through her, knowing that she'd compounded the grief of loss in his life. It almost felt as though he'd been caught in a cruel game, unknowingly having to trade one love for another.

As always, Nida listened quietly. Though diminutive in stature, she enveloped Thirdas in her presence.

"It is a lot to take in," she acknowledged softly. There was still hope that Coci yet lived, but there was also an uncomfortable lack of details as to why she'd gone in the first place. As Thirdas turned to look at her, pink fingers drifted from his hair to caress the side of his face lovingly. The shifting heat of the fire was felt keenly against her cheek.

"Coci is a strong woman. I remember my mother telling me stories of her…"

For a moment, Nida's voice drifted off in fond recollection. She'd always delighted in the tales that Joza had told her and her sisters of the Jedi, even if she'd had trouble believing some of them. Stories of the Jedi and Outer Rim had seemed so embellished until she'd walked a similar path.

Nida bent down, violet strands hanging over them like a curtain as she pressed her lips to Thirdas' forehead.

"Tell me your favorite memory of her,” she murmured.

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Thirdas closed his eyes as her lips graced his forehead, lulled by the feather-light touch of her hair. She'd always been his soothsayer; his calm and comfort in the storm. A single word or a single touch was enough to stay his rage, strengthen his resolve, and hone his focus. She shut out the worst of him and threw away the key. She was a wholly good person, and but one of endless reasons why he was entirely hers.

He sat up next to her, a moment passing as he sought to answer her question. "She taught me how to shoot," he smiled briefly at the memory. "Does that surprise you?" Thirdas pulled her towards him, placing her in his lap with his arms secured behind the small of her back as he stared into her eyes, their bodies pressed up against each other.

"Mom wasn't always a Jedi, I later found out. She started out as an agent of the Republic; a deadly assassin, able to make impossible shots. It was only after the Republic fell and she later joined the Silvers that she became a Jedi." Her story had always fascinated him as a child; how someone so cold and calculating could change their ways, becoming the warmth he'd grown up with. How someone whose entire purpose was to end lives, could learn to nurture it instead.

"I was a bad egg, growing up," he continued, softly chuckling. "No, really, I was! I'd get into fights with the bigger kids at the drop of a hat, always coming home with fresh bruises or a bloody nose. Dad tried it the Jedi way; sitting me down for lessons in meditation, but it was a futile effort. Mom understood me in ways he didn't; she saw that I was no Jedi like my siblings, but a blunt instrument in need of sharpening."

Thirdas brushed a lock of indigo behind her ear, intoxicated by her scent.

"One day, I discovered her old rifle in a hidden compartment in their bedroom. I stole it and ran out into the woods, having no clue how to operate a firearm. She found me, of course, and after a well-deserved scolding she offered instructions. We made a deal; no more fights, and she'd take me out for more lessons. I was immediately hooked. The rest is history," he shrugged.

He nuzzled his nose against hers. The heat of the fireplace. The comfort of their embrace. The allure of her eyes. All served to entice him. He would have surrendered, taking her then and there that he might put aside his worries for the intimacy of lovers in the night, were it not for the sudden howl of winter followed by heavy footsteps and the slamming of the front door. Thurion shook the chill from his bones.

"Whew, weather's getting worse," he said, removing his cloak. "Just barely got the new column in place before snowfall." Taking one look at the young couple, Thurion removed his boots and marched upstairs. "Feed the cat before you go to bed," he told them in passing.

Thirdas turned back to Nida, waiting patiently. The moment he heard the master bedroom door shut, he was upon her.

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

"No," Nida decided as Thirdas pulled her into his lap. With his hands cradling her back, she slipped her own up to rest against his shoulders. "It does not." She'd known that Coci had a past as a sort of sniper, but had never learned any details of her role until now.

Dark violet eyebrows scrunched at the notion of him being a bad egg as a child. Though they'd met in their tender teenage years, and though he'd always had a warrior's spirit, Nida had always found Thirdas to be a kind and genuine soul. One that, apparently, had needed a specific sort of guidance growing up.

When he threaded a few strands behind her ear, she tilted her cheek against his palm. His hands were rough and calloused, they had been so for as long as she'd known him. To Nida his hands felt like home. As easily as they could conduct war, they could love and protect.

"You were a cute kid," she murmured, pressing a kiss to the juncture of his forefinger and palm. "It's true. Your father showed me holophotos." Nida smiled against his hand, dark eyes flicking up to his face. "But I do not think that you were a bad egg. You were a child who needed an outlet for his anger. Your mother understood that, and created it for you. I refuse to believe that you suddenly grew a good heart when you learned to focus."

Nida lifted her face from his palm, slipping her hand into his own. She twined their fingers and squeezed, like the gentle, steady pulse of a heartbeat.

"It was always there."

A giggle slipped from her lips as Thirdas nuzzled her nose. She sighed, basking in the gentle intimacy of the moment – the warmth of the fire, the softness of the blanket that wrapped them together, and the presence of her love.

She stilled suddenly as the front door opened. Nida peeked from behind the blanket, but Thurion's footfalls were already heavy against the stairs.

Her squeak of surprise was quickly muffled, and pink hands slid from their shoulder and his own hand, to over Thirdas' shoulders.

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

They never even made it to the bedroom, but instead stirred to life on the livingroom couch to a cold fireplace and with only a fur to keep them warm. At least their clothes lay in a somewhat neat pile on the floor, rather than scattered about as if a hurricane had swept through the house. Given that the sun was already up meant they'd slept in quite a bit, as the days were short this time of year.

Not wishing to wake the two lovebirds, his father had prepared breakfast for them and left it on the kitchen table. It was accompanied by a note, reading "Off kinging — Breakfast on the house!" accompanied by a winky-face. Thirdas, standing in nothing but a pair of pants, smiled at the dopey note and made himself a bowl of blue milk and sugary cereals while trying really hard not to sneak a peek at Nida getting dressed, failing several times.

Above the hearth hung the family portrait depicting the entire Heavenshield clan, painted years ago by his sister Nina. As he scooped another spoonful of cereals in his mouth, his gaze wandered to each face depicted, from Thurion and Coci at the centre to his youngest nieces and nephews. He realised then that this portrait was years old, and all the little ones must be adolescents by now. He stared at his own likeness, noting how lonely he seemed; there was no significant other by his side, nor a throne of children surrounding him.

That man in the painting did not exist anymore. Though Nina had done him no disservice, as the likeness was very detailed and crafted with much love, that man was to him a stranger, unfit for the warmth exuded by the rest of the clan.

"We'll have to commission a replacement soon," he pointed out, staring cheekily at Nida as he chowed down another spoonful. "Hey, wot yew wonna dew tewday," he asked, cheeks full.

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

It was Thirdas who had awoken first. Nida took her time, stirring on the couch for a few more minutes before rising to dress.

At one point, she'd playfully tossed a couch cushion at the Peeping Tom.

Once fully clothed, Nida padded into the kitchen and retrieved some of the toast that Thurion had kindly prepared for them before departing for work. As she spread some berry preserves over her breakfast, she didn't bother to hide the admiring gaze that shifted to his bare torso.

Her eyes quickly followed Thirdas' own to the portrait. His sister Nina was a talented painter, and the family portrait had been hung in a visible place with much love.

"So long as we do not trouble her," Nida agreed. "Especially if she is busy with her own wedding preparations."

Dark violet brows lifted just an inch as Thirdas spoke through a mouthful of cereal. Nida had poured herself a glass of juice, taking a long drink before answering. She hadn't realized how parched she was, having forgotten how dry Midvinter air could be.

"The statues in the square," she started thoughtfully. "Of your grandfather and uncle, correct? I'd like to visit the Kings of Midvinter."

Years ago, when she'd been recuperating after having her tie to the Dark severed, they'd done the same.

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Finishing his bowl of cereals, Thirdas moved around the kitchen counter to where Nida stood, a metallic finger dragged along its surface before he wrapped his arms around her and snuck a kiss in between her bites without a care for getting jam or crumbs in his beard, nor the taste of juice on his lips. A cheeky grin as he then used the back of his hand to wipe his mouth, then wiped it off against his trousers in turn. There, gone.

"Delicious," he teased, hands on his hips as he flexed his pectorals at her. He let out an exaggerated laugh designed to annoy, only to receive a splash of what remained of her juice in his face. He stared at her with mouth agape, then proceeded to chase her around the room only to end up back in the couch.

​

After more than a few distractions, both would eventually step outside with clothes on their backs and their wits in check, braving the cold outdoors with the marketplace as their destination. True to his father's comment from the night before, the community was still busy shovelling fresh snow fallen overnight; neighbor helping neighbor, young helping old, strong helping weak. Thurion had of course got up early and done the entrance and front path for them on the way to work.

Being even colder than the day before, Thirdas had wrapped Nida in an additional layer of fur to keep extra warm before they went outside. She looked like a child wearing their dad's wardrobe, all bundled up like that with her pink face peeking out between hat and scarf. It was adorable.

As they eventually found themselves under the watchful gaze of the kings of old presiding over the town square, which was far less bustling this day on account of the well below freezing temperatures, Thirdas would once more find himself in awe; of the craftmanship, certainly, but more so of these forebears of his, realising their blood flowed through his veins as it did his father and brother. For the longest time he found himself staring up at them, trying to discern what they were like.

"I never knew my grandfather," he confessed. "He died before I was born. And my uncle," he kissed his hand and then reached up to touch the Uniter's foot. "Him I met at least once a year. I know this because my cousin and I were both born in the same month, so we'd always celebrate it together, the whole clan. They are some of my most treasured memories." He realised then that they need visit the Forest Realm soon, that he and Thrand might be reunited.

Taking a step back, his gaze fell upon the countless offerings surrounding the base of each statue. Weapons, tools, precious stones, even baskets of food had been freshly laid out this morning by the townsfolk. Every morning, to show how great these men were in life. Worst yet of all, his gaze was then drawn to a third, empty base.

It too was surrounded by offerings despite the lack of a likeness, for everyone knew who it meant to honour. His father had left it blank and unoccupied at the same time these other ones were erected, knowing he was fated to join them some day. A painful thing for a son to even contemplate, doubly so in light of recent news.

"Does Zeltros have gods," he asked Nida, clearing his father's base of snow. "Do your people pray to a higher power of sorts?"

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

As the frigid air touched what little skin she had bared to it, Nida was reminded of how hardy the Valkyri were. Thirdas had insisted on an extra layer for her, and though she had initially protested, she was now grateful for the added insulation. She could live for a hundred years in the middle of a blizzard and still never match up to the biology of the ice giants.

For a few long minutes, the pair stood at the base of the monument in comfortable silence. Much like Thirdas, Nida found her eyes roaming over the reverently crafted statues, taking in the careful details of their faces, their hair, right down to the folds in their clothing.

"There are few religious sects on Zeltros, most of which were imported from other words." She watched as he swept gloved hands over the third, unoccupied base. As much as this was a place of honor, it was also a reminder of a future that loomed ahead. Distantly, she hoped. "No native gods. At least, none that I'm aware of."

Perhaps there had been, in the distant past. Her eyes dropped to the offerings left for the pair of kings. "Everyday on Zeltros is a celebration. I suppose that is nice, celebrating life, but the quiet moments in between are often lost to revelry."

As a chilly breeze slid past, Nida's gloved hand hiked her scarf higher around her mouth and nose.

"Thrand, right? When was the last time you saw your cousin," her voice came slightly muffled.

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

"Aye, Thrand," he smiled at the memory of his childhood friend. "We were inseparable growing up — brothers in all but name. He was the brains, I was the brawn. I'd get into all sorts of trouble, and he was always there to get me out of it." As he crouched to reveal a plaque bearing no name, he felt relieved in some measure. That his father's name was not already inscribed made it less... well, set in stone. He stood and stepped back towards Nida. "Haven't seen him since he had to light his father's funeral pyre..."

It still hurt, recalling how brave his cousin was to relieve his mother of the burden and taking it upon himself to send Thyrian the Uniter on his way.

"The reason I brought up gods is because—"

As he turned to her, Thirdas could not help but let out a soft laugh. "You, look adorable," his arms wrapped themselves around her waist, pulling her in for a warm hug, rubbing her back to help stave off the cold.

"I ask because it is customary to choose a deity in whose name a Valkyri wedding ceremony is held. I'm sure you know we have many gods inhabiting this world. There's the All-Father, of course, but there's also his wife Runa, goddess of the earth and growth. Their children Helm, god of war; Eár, goddess of the hunt and fertility; Velkar, the trickster god. There's Teign, the smithing god..."

Thirdas stepped aside, arm still wrapped around her shoulder as he gestured to the centre statue.

"Thrand, god of the sun." The latest addition to the pantheon, and some might say the most popular due to his gifts of daylight and warmth on such an unrelenting world as theirs. "You know they say, as he ascended to sit at the All-Father's council, the Bringer of Dawn left behind a gift to mortalkind. Two sons, each an aspect of his power. His flame," he looked to the statue depicting his uncle.

He then looked to the empty base, smiling. The black stone shone anew in the sunlight, reflecting in his similarly black eyes.

"...and his light." He lingered like so for a moment, then turned to Nida and shrugged.

"If you believe in that kind of stuff."

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

As Thirdas spoke of his cousin, Nida wondered how often he'd smiled in their years apart. Then, she let out a gentle squeak of surprise as he wrapped his arms around her.

She'd not been touched in their years apart. Not in this way, at least - nothing as intimate, intentionally or unintentionally, as Thirdas pulling her into him and chasing away the cold.

Nida rested her head against his chest and hummed. She turned her face, only violet eyes and the pink bridge of her nose visible, back toward the statues as Thirdas spoke of the Midvinter gods and their role in marriage ceremonies.

"Does that make your father part God, then?"

Beneath the hat, two eyebrows rose. That would make Thirdas part deity as well, if the logic tracked.

"In the outer rim, I worked with some cultures who believed in gods and goddesses. Spirits of the earth, fertility, and likewise. I don't recall if any of them were mortal men or women who'd ascended to godhood.

"I think it would be nice to be wed in the name of your grandfather," she offered. A tilt of her head, and Nida was glancing up at Thirdas.

"Though it is your decision, of course."

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

"No," he replied, giving the innocent question an honest answer. "He'd be the first to say so. Gods don't bleed, and yet he bleeds himself dry every day for people he doesn't know. Gods do not fight our battles for us; our King does. Gods do not know loss, as their lives are eternal; he's lost more than most have ever gained in a lifetime, and still he puts on a smile."

Black eyes stared ahead.

"No, Thurion Heavenshield is not a god. He's more." He swallowed hard, voice cracking at the sudden welling of emotion. "He's my dad." There was pride in those words, and an immense respect, but also deep-seated regret for not having spoken those words to him enough. For not having been a good son. For having lashed out one too many times growing up. For not having said "I love you" back.

He wiped a tear before it could escape the corner of his eye.

"I've lived a wasted life, Nida. I had everything growing up, including the most loving, caring parents anyone could ever dream of. We never lacked for anything, but of course it wasn't enough for an ignorant little punk like me. I couldn't put this rock behind me soon enough to see the stars, never once taking their feelings into account. All I've got to show for myself is a military career ended in failure, night terrors, and half my body missing."

Thirdas clenched his metal fist so hard its servos audibly protested, then let go as he turned his attention to the woman by his side.

"Except you. You're the only thing I did right. Finding you. Loving you. Nida, I swear I'll strive to be worthy of you every day until the day I die. That I'll be the man you've always seen in me. And I'll never fail to tell you that I love you."

He knelt as he professed his love to her all over again, eyes filled with uttermost devotion.

"Or our children."

Nida Heavenshield

 

[Nida Heavenshield]

Nida watched quietly, as she always did, though she was not passive. Her expression creased into one of loving concern as Thirdas spoke of his father, of his parent's love, of his upbringing and his regrets.

When he knelt before her, she cupped either side of his face with small, gloved hands.

"From the Bryn'adul to the Sith, your actions have saved countless lives. Lives that you may never meet, lives that may never be aware of you, but lives that you've saved all the same."

Her right thumb brushed over the slope of his cheekbone affectionately. "You were young, my love. Do you think that your father, the mortal man that he is, was simply born with the wisdom he has now? Thurion Heavenshield was young once, too, and though I do not know the entirety of his story, I'd imagine that he has made mistakes. Ones that you and I have not seen."

Nida sighed, letting her thumb sweep over the sharp turn of his jaw. She observed Thirdas openly, no longer prone to her teenage shyness.

"You are so hard on yourself, Thirdas. I wish that you could see yourself as I see you. As a man of unparalleled honor and loyalty. A man who still loved me after that…"

She trailed off, lips quivering for a moment before she pressed them into a thin line. Her countenance took on a somber tint as she recalled driving the dagger into his torso. Though it had been long ago, she could still see the shock and betrayal etched into his expression, clear as day. Nida took a few long moments to let her own feelings of shame and regret wash over her before she set them aside as best she could.

"...After that Dark, twisted thing within me compelled me to hurt you. A man who waited for me as I served my time and searched for my soul in the farthest corners of the galaxy."

Nida tilted down and pressed her lips to Thirdas' forehead. She lingered there before pulling back.

"You are every bit the man that your father is. And when the time comes, I cannot imagine you being anything less than the loving, supportive man you've grown into for our children."

Thirdas Heavenshield

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Words that, if spoken by anybody else, would have rung hollow to one such as he; whose soul, once unburdened by the constant crucible of war, had grown heavy with guilt towards the end of his career. The sacrifice of the 88th Battalion, and their subsequent dishonourable discharge. How he'd sometimes wished he could have joined them; for his mangled corpse to be scraped off the field and thrown into a mass grave along with the rest of them. At least then he'd still be with his boys, forever.

Even now, as he looked up at Nida's radiance and love, knowing he wanted above all to build a life with her — a life long denied to either of them — survivor's guilt hung over his shoulders like a heavy coat. Lions are prideful creatures; shame to them is akin to a black hole nigh impossible to dig themselves out of. That is why they need friends and loved ones to assist in the digging.

Thirdas wept as Nida placed her lips to his forehead, as if having received absolution by the divine. That the forces that be had elected to grace the world with such a spirit, much less bestowed her unto someone like him, was nothing short of miraculous. He clung to her, burying his head in her chest and gave a thousand thanks to any higher power that listened for Nida Perl's existence.

He embraced her like so for some time, until his bout of inadequacy had faded from his mind and renewed confidence allowed him to rise. He rubbed the dampness from his eyes, then looked upon Nida with a soft smile. He offered her his arm.

"Come, my lady. We have a wedding to plan."

They only made a few steps before he halted in place, patting his person for any offerings he might gift. Metal clinked against metal as his cybernetic fingers brushed against the pommel of his hunting knife. This blade had been his sole keepsake from home when he first embarked on this great adventure, and remained true through every battle since. It was the last physical reminder of his time at war.

Leaving Nida's side for a moment, Thirdas strode up to the statues one final time, bowing to the pair, yet presenting the offering to the empty base. Midvinter steel was returned to its native land, and the warrior wielding it was cleansed of the last vestiges of doubt. He was free.

Free to marry the woman he'd always loved.

Nida Heavenshield