Private Hope Rekindled

[Nina Heavenshield]

City of Heavenheim
Midvinter​

She always relished visiting the capital; founded by her mother and father in the dawn of her uncle's reign, it bears the virtues of House Heavenshield down to the very rock. Once outshined only by the ancient capital of Tháinbroek, it now stands leagues above any other Valkyri city on the planet. Its citizens share a brightness in disposition found nowhere else, and it is even said that the Lord of Sunlight himself favours the town of his youngest son. With a great number of them being war refugees from the fall of Tháinbroek, the people here are more generous and share a greater sense of community than most settlements as many arrived broken-spirited and lacking any possessions.

Heavenheim represents hope, no less so than the Lion governing it.

Nowadays, however, there is more to her visits than seeing her beleaguered father; the reason for her lack of scholarly focus as of late. More than once she's found herself tripping over words or losing her train of thought in the middle of a lecture or philosophical debate with her fellow Loremasters at the College of Enlightenment.

That reason was walking beside her now, their fondness for each other on display for all to see. A princess, white of hair and short of stature, her delicate hands clutching the arm of her dashing captain of the royal bodyguard. Their hearts had been laid bare to each other that dreadful night of her capture, finally expressing their love long subdued.

It still made her heart flutter at the looks the townsfolk gave them, approval of otherwise. It was an excitement the famously timid girl had never allowed herself to experience before, being the subject of gossip. The woman that now walked in her stead had grown confident enough to face any criticism, for she had suffered wounds and struck down foes far worse than any string of hurtful words.

Simply put, she could not care less about what other people thought of this particular match, whether the Lord Commander was considered worthy of her affection. Instead, she found herself nestling closer to her brave knight, clinging to his arm as they wandered through the market stalls.

"Let them whisper and tittle-tattle," she told him, though perhaps more so for her own sake than his. "I care not."

Arden Durane

 

[Arden Durane]

City of Heavenheim
Midvinter

Some time had passed since Nina Heavenshield rescue by the dreaded cult that had condemned themselves to death when the kidnapped the white haired Princess. Long feelings had been revealed that night as well as dreaded prophecies of a sinister nature that seemed to loom over the land of Midvinter. Arden did his best to prepare for what could come, training extensively with the Guard and recruiting as much as possible. Clearing those that he felt would make the greatest impact in the Royal families safety as well as vetting the approval of the High King.

It wasn't just what happened that evening that spurred his increased activity.

The while haired woman, Nina that had walked next to him. Holding his arm ever so gently.

She was now the main reason he found himself looking towards the future. The reason he seemed to wake up with a smile on his face, a passion that he gained to preform his duties greater than ever before. While he had his thoughts of whether a man like could ever be with such a amazing person such as her. Those thoughts had passed the more time they spent together. Every caress of the cheek and ever kiss that was placed pushed those thoughts away.

She had his heart, it would always belong to her.

"Let them whisper and tittle-tattle," she told him, though perhaps more so for her own sake than his. "I care not."

He looked over to her as she spoke and he smiled as they came to a stop to allow a few carts carrying supplied to the local market had passed by. He found himself looking up as the banner of House Heavenshield billowed in the wind from atop the structures in the distance.

He turned to face her and he caressed her cheek with his hand. "Neither do I, Nina." Arden whisphered as he placed a kiss on her forehead, followed by one on her lips. The carts had passed by and Arden took a deep breath and smiled.

"Shall we continue, my love?"

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

It was a swift kiss, but plenty enough for the otherwise chaste Nina to turn a shade redder from the sudden display of romantic affection. In all her years she had never given much thought to her own future unless it revolved around being of service to others. It was owed to an unhealthy blend of thinking it selfish of her to want something only for her benefit coupled with the reluctance of wishing to add to the Vi'dreya bloodline. Her memories from before meeting the man who would become her father were... unpleasant.

Now? She had her passion project, satisfying her mind's thirst for knowledge, and she had her Knight, satisfying her heart's hitherto unheard desire for love. She'd known the love of family for most of her life, and she knew the love of a true-hearted companion in the form of her beloved Arnor. Now, at long last, she would learn what her mother and father had shared throughout their time together.

With the passing of the carts, Nina nodded and buried her blushing face in the collar of her fur cloak. Her hand snaked down to find his, interlacing their fingers while still clinging to him. At that moment, no one or nothing could tear her from his side.

An elderly lady Beorni beckoned the happy couple, inviting them to peruse her stall.

"Hello, Rana," she grinned at the grandmotherly merchant. She'd been one of the first to join her father's burgeoning city back in the day, trading her works of art steeped in Beorni culture. She never spoke, for the common tongue had ever eluded her, so in that sense she was a kindred spirit to the mute Nina.

Without a word, the kind old she-bear presented each of them with a simple yet deeply meaningful necklace, adorned with bird feathers and beads of every shape and size. Though she never told them, it was believed among midwives that it increased fertility and safeguarded the mother and child during pregnancy. Nina side-stepped the stall to hug the elderly Beorni, her fur shaggy and unremarkable but warm and inviting all the same.

"Thank you so much!"

Once back at Arden's side, the couple would resume their walk until faced with the overwhelming presence of her grandfather and uncle; two Kings of Men well worthy of worship from deed alone. Their powerful likenesses inspired any bystander, and their memorial drew countless pilgrims from across the realm eager to give thanks.

Nina found herself drawn to the Dawnbringer especially, someone she and her brother Théo only ever knew as Grandpapa. She could only just reach up to his feet, standing on her tippy-toes, gently caressing his lifeless resemblance. It was all she could do to offer thanks to the man who brought her father into the world.

Withdrawing from the pair of statues, her heart sank when pale-blue eyes were drawn to the third, empty base.

"I don't like how they already made room for Papa," she leaned into Arden. "It's too hard to even imagine..."

Arden Durane

 

[Arden Durane]

"Good day Rana." Arden said with a small smile and he bowed respectfully. The amulet that was given to him, the Master held his hand out to accept and he was quite impressed with its display. While he did not know the nature of its purpose other than as a gift. He accepted it graciously and placed it around his neck. It was nice to be out here with Nina on this day. She was loved by so many people, more than she ever knew. He could see that as he looked upon the faces of those that looked at her. Arden bid farewell to the Beorni as they continued their walk until they came up Nina's ancestral family.

He watched as she approached the figures and Arden bowed his head and placed a hand over his heart. Arden went to a knee as he then closed his eyes, muttering a small prayer in respect towards the duo. It was within a few moments that he stood up and then took a deep breath. Nina returned to his side and he placed his hand around her, giving her a small squeeze.

Taking what she said in with full detail.

It was truthfully something that he didn't like either. While he knew that the High King still had much life left to live. There was still so much more for him to do.

"I know what you mean." Arden said with a small smile as he nestled against her gently. "Your father has still so much to do. There are those that still need him. His guidance, energy and spirit. The galaxy will weep the day Thurion Heavenshield is no longer with us." The Commander took another deep breath as he looked towards the empty spot and back to Nina.

"That day has not come yet, and it won't come for a very long time."

Nina Heavenshield

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

"I still need him," she spoke softly. She would always need him. Both of them.

She clung to him tighter, as if afraid he would somehow vanish if she didn't. For as much as the memorial was beautiful and inspiring, to someone who knew these great men on a personal level it only made it that much more difficult to stand in their presence. The day her father joins them she couldn't imagine herself even setting foot here ever again.

Nina tugged at his arm, tearing herself away from the memorial when the emotion became unbearable, narrowly fending off the tears that had begun to form. She had not come here to mourn; she was happy, her heart aflutter for having found love. Right now, all she wanted was to enjoy the new sensation while it lasted. Before the next great sorrow sought to intrude upon her life, as it so often did.

Together they resumed idly strolling through the marketplace, stopping by a merchant selling precious stones. If it were anywhere else, the trade of jewels would hardly prove profitable given that the harsh conditions of everyday life saw the majority of people only bartering necessities such as food, warm clothes, or firewood. It stood as a testament to the prosperity of Heavenheim that people were well-off enough to be trading their valuables for anything wholly lacking in practical uses.

Nina wasn't of Midvinter, however, and took as much esthetic pleasure in fine jewellery as the next girl. The cloaked man next to her didn't seem as excitable, eyeing the gems with scepticism.

"Hmph," the noticeably shorter fellow grunted from under his hood after examining one of the stones more closely. The stranger then proceeded to place the stone between his teeth and bite down on it, igniting an uproar from the merchant. "Hey, stop that!"

The hooded fellow recoiled from the sudden outburst, dropping the jewel in the dirt and causing it to shatter. "Oh dear, oh dear," he worried aloud, seemingly overwhelmed by it all. He turned to leave only to bump into Arden Durane towering over him, before scurrying off on stunted legs. Taking notice of the rather odd exchange, Nina's eyes followed the hooded stranger into a nearby alley.

"Did you see that," she asked Arden, eyes wide with wonder. "Who was that?"

 

[Arden Durane]

"As do I, Nina." Arden said with a small smile and he looked up slightly towards the sky and a small gust of wind blew through the area. It was a gently cool breeze that teased of a potential coming rain. Although what he said with held true, as he gave a small glance back towards the area designated for the High King. He hated the the idea of thinking about what the galaxy would be like without Thurion Heavenshield

She tugged on his arm and he reached and gave her hand a gently squeeze. Lovingly an comforting towards the Princess. It was still difficult to realize that she had given him his heart. While he thought purely as a soldier until he himself fell in love with the Princess. And it was then that he never wanted to be parted from her. While duties and such would demand such a thing. Necessary that it would be, but not forever. And then they would be in each others arms again.

While he was a Jedi, the wonders of the galaxy still surprised him. Force and saber were his tools and weapons. Some of the things that these individuals were able to do, was truly remarkable. He glanced towards the Jewels and he reached for one and stared at it exquisitely.

"Truly remarkable your work. You should be proud my good sir."

The merchant seemed extremely gracious and evens lightly embarrased at the Lord Commanders words. "You do me great honor my lord."

"Arden, will suffice my friend." He smiled and bowed his head lightly and it was then that commotion could be heard and someone had bumped into Arden slightly and then scurried away towards the Alley.

"Did you see that,"

"Who was that?"

"I'm not sure." The Jedi's brow furrowed slightly. "I say we have a look my princess." He said glancing to her and winking at her. He hoped no one would be causing any trouble today.

Then again, these were some strange times.

Nina Heavenshield

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

Nina gave her suitor a playful jab at the ribs with her elbow for the overt use of her royal title, knowing full well it would provoke her. "Oh, shush you," she told him, then tugged at his arm to follow. "Come on!" Ever the curious one, Nina took the lead in tracking down the strange little man. From what little she saw of him, his hands and wrists had been much too wide to belong to a child, and his voice too full and gruff.

They followed him into the alley she'd spotted him disappearing into, but when she peeked around the corner there was no one to be found. It wasn't until entering the alley that it became abundantly evident the stranger had simply hugged the corner, hoping no one would notice. As if his wide figure didn't reveal his location, the slightly panicked breathing certainly did.

His eyes were closed shut, so he could not see Nina reaching out to him. Only when her lithe fingers gently touched his broad shoulder did he realise he'd been caught and promptly recoiled, pressing his back flat against the stone wall. "Oh dear, oh dear," he repeated, clearly flustered by the whole ordeal.

Nina withdrew her hand and exposed both her palms, trying to appear as non-threatening as possible. "Hey, it's alright," she said. "We're not going to hurt you. You're not in any trouble."

The short fellow seemed to ease up somewhat, though remained obscured in the dark corner.

"I'm not?" His hooded head turned to the tall blonde by her side. "Y-you're not going to... use that, are you?" He pointed to Arden's sword at his side.

Arden Durane

 

[Arden Durane]

He chuckled lightly with a small 'oof" when she elbowed him in a playful manner. He knew that was an overuse, as she had told him many times before. Perhaps he ought to call her by 'love' or 'sweetheart' something of that sort. He could help but chuckles as she pulled him along and he followed along with her. Curious to see this troublemaker, however Arden could not sense anything amiss about him, nothing dark of nature. It was evident as they followed him to where he was hiding and Nina Heavenshield got him to reveal himself and got him to start talking and such.

Arden took a deep breath as he studied him intently glancing back to Nina and to the individual.


Arden showed a small smile and he shook his head. "No, of course not. This is merely meant to defend and drive off things of evil nature. I do not see that you are such a thing."

Arden leaned forward just a bit, as he placed a hand on Nina's shoulder in show of support.

"Who are you?"

 

[Beren Blackmane]

Assured that there was nothing to fear from these two, the hooded stranger stepped out of the shadows on cautious feet. Noticeably shorter than any Valkyri, with even Nina the Umbaran standing taller in comparison, he did not lack in width or girth. His arms, legs, and chest were thick with muscle and accompanied by a round belly, lending credence to the idea of his mass still being on par with the towering locals. A thick, well-groomed beard flowed down the lower half of his round face, and flanking a large nose was a pair of kind eyes with bushy eyebrows.

Upon removing his hood, the burly man's hair was just as big as his beard, bushy and black.

"My name... is," he hesitated for a moment as if having to think about it. "Beren. Yes, Beren of Clan Blackmane. That's my name." His hands fidgeted, not knowing whether to twiddle his thumbs or keep them at his sides. Nina would reach out to take his hand in both of hers, feeling its weight and comparing it to that of her father or grandfather. Its lines ran deep and his hairy knuckles tickled her much fairer skin.

"Well met, Beren," she greeted him by way of a handshake while being in possession of his hand. "My name is Nina of House Heavenshield, and this man is Arden of House Durane. He commands the royal bodyguard, so there's nowhere safer than by his side," she added with a loving look his way. She removed her own hood now in a bid to inspire further trust. Beren gasped and stared as locks of white revealed themselves.

"You are..." his eyes lit up as if having beheld an angelic being, and he could not help but reach up to caress one of her locks of hair between thumb and index finger. "Snowflake." The word, one she'd been called throughout her life, caused a bright smile to settle on her lips.

"Oh! Hang on," he connected the dots, snapping out of his trance so suddenly it gave Nina a startle. "House Heavenshield, you say? Is that not the same name as your, uh... D'oh, what do you call it... High King? It is imperative that I speak with him, you see. Yes, yes, very imperative."

Nina looked at Arden, unable to hide her amusement at the strange behaviour. "You are correct, friend. I am his daughter. We could take you to him if you like?"

Beren became still at this revelation, simply nodding his head. "I would be honoured, Princess," he then bowed, causing her shoulders to slump as she let out a soft sigh. "Come along then," she turned to exit the alley. "Not a word," she whispered to Arden in passing.

Arden Durane

 

[Arden Durane]

"Its an pleasure to meet you Beren." Arden spoke in turn as Nina Heavenshield had done. His stance had changed somewhat as he glanced to Nina and he couldn't help but show a small smile and even chuckle. The fact that he new a nickname and also mentioned Thurion by the 'High King' title was enough to loosen his thoughts and relax a bit more. However, he wondered what news he had for his grace. Given the state of their meeting, Arden sensed something elusive.

Not with Beren, but something else entirely. Given how recent events that have transpired lately, what they found in the cave and then he and the Princess declaring their love for one another.

Be prepared for whatever came, that is why he spent such a great amount of time in preparation and training of the Lion Guard, basics, recruiting, reforging armor and all the like.

Arden glanced to Nina and gave her a small wink at her command.

"Of course my love." The message sent back to her, hoping she was somewhat thrilled that he didn't call her princess again he mused.

Beren Blackmane

 

[Beren Blackmane]

Leading Beren through the busy streets of Heavenheim, Nina did her best to rein in his more reckless impulses; one such occasion involved him spotting something across the street which made him stroll out onto the road without minding a horse-drawn carriage nearly trampling him, all while absent-mindedly mumbling to himself. The feeling that he wasn't all there had crossed her mind, but given his unusual appearance and manners, it became evident he wasn't used to the big world around him. She expected all would be made clear once they reached her father.

There, removed from the city's noise and with the finest view of the Golden Gulf and the straits beyond, stood not a castle nor great mead hall as one would expect of a kingly abode, but rather a visibly architecturally different family homestead. Beren's keen eyes immediately deciphered that great love and care had been taken during its construction, with each log and plank of wood sporting intricate runic patterns carved by hand. A lush garden surrounded the wooden porch, though his busy thoughts held little interest to him.

"Your king lives here? It's so... plain," he voiced his surprise, paying no heed whether it might offend. But Nina did not take him through the main gate but instead led him off to the side where an even smaller and plainer building adjoined the main house. A carving noise came from within, and as they drew closer the sound of humming could be heard in the mix. A carpenter's workshop.

Nina smirked as she knocked on the wide door, upon which the noise within fell silent. Much to Beren's surprise, the gate did not open outward or inward but rather slid upward to seemingly disappear into the ceiling. But before he could even begin to ponder its design he was met with the tallest person he'd ever laid eyes upon; a veritable giant compared to him. Golden hair showing signs of grey and a beard to match, eyes like the most precious sapphires under the earth, and yet he wore clothes more common than the commoners he'd passed on the street. His sleeves were pulled up to his elbows, exposing strong hands and powerful forearms covered in sawdust.

"Papa," Nina pounced the man, to which he let out a jovial chuckle and embraced her wholeheartedly. "There she is!"

Putting her down, Thurion reached out and clasped the side of Arden's neck, leaving a trail of sawdust upon his cheek. He did not say anything, but simply smiled and nodded his proud approval. All the while Beren stood there, still trying to make sense of it all.

"And who is your friend," he then asked as Nina stood aside. Beren was half his size, and so had to strain his neck to look the man in the eye. His hands fiddled once more.

"Y-your Majesty," he began, tripping over his words a bit. "Forgive me, but... You are the ruler of these lands? The one in charge, as it were?" The blonde giant noted his uncomfortable form and surprised Beren a second time when he got down on one knee, levelling their eye line. "Aye, that'd be me. Thurion's the name," he extended his hand in greeting. Beren shook his hand, still flabbergasted. To him, it simply did not add up how this man could be the King. Forgetting to let go of his hand, Thurion offered a gentle reminder.

"I could go grab my crown if you don't believe me?" Beren realised his mistake and let go of Thurion's hand, shuffling a bit where he stood.

"Well, see... My name is Beren, and I came here seeking aid on behalf of my father, Berethor of the Blackmane Clan, Archon of the Under-Realm. He tasked me in secret to find the ruler of the Lands Above."

Thurion's lighthearted expression faded, replaced with stoic duty. He looked to Nina and Arden, then back at Beren.

"I think we better step inside."

Arden Durane

 

[Arden Durane]

Arden smiled and the sight of the High King and the smile on his face couldn't have gotten any bigger. The hand that grasped the side of his neck as he looked to the King and bowed his head at him. "Your grace." Arden spoke just as proudly as the High King had looked at him. When he came into this position there was much gossip that was about, how one so young was able to secure a position as the Lord Commander of the Kings Lion Guard. He had to work and prove himself tenfold over and over again so that he wouldn't let those down.

Much more than that, let Thurion Heavenshield down. Thus came his role and brought him before the princess, Nina Heavenshield

A true shining gem, rare in every aspect. Her mind, beauty, and her goodness were something of a extraordinary.

He loved her with his whole heart.

By his life or death, if he could protect them....he would.

The fact that Beren Blackmane needed some extra convincing, it couldn't help but bring a small chuckle to that of the Lord Commander. Thus he glanced towards Thurion as Blackmane spoke and he nodded his head. The Jedi waited for everyone to go inside first before he followed as he glanced behind him before shutting the door.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

The fireplace came alight as the party of four gathered in the living room. Beren stared at every nook and cranny, his mind swirling with curiosity and the need to pick up and examine every strange gadget gnawed at his fingertips. The Heavenshield estate, while humble, housed the perfect blend of traditional Valkyri aesthetics and modern galactic comforts. For instance, a seemingly simple coffee table could access various holographic board games. Portraits of family members hung up on its walls were joined by holographic likenesses of said members.

"Please, sit," the King offered upon his return from briefly washing up in the kitchen, ridding himself of the sweat and sawdust. The Blackmane Prince checked behind him to find an empty armchair and after a short struggle to climb into it, he sank into the soft, cushioned fabric. How removed he felt from the rigid stone slabs of his homeland, where wood and wool were non-existent.

Nina appeared by his side to offer a cup of tea, then nestled herself upon the armrest of her father's chair, eager to hear about this strange new friend of theirs. Not recognising the hot drink, he downed it all in one go, showing no signs of discomfort.

"Regale us, Beren of Clan Blackmane, of your plight. It does not take genius intellect to see that you are a visitor to these lands." Thurion sunk into his favourite chair, his daughter by his side taking his hand in hers. The stage belonged to Beren.

"Right... Aye, you are right, of course! I am a stranger to these lands, that is true, but the Duergar are no strangers to this world." Nina's face lit up, giddy with fascination like a child being told a bedtime story. "The Under-Realm has stood for millennia, deep underground among the earth's roots and where the world's lifeblood floats like rivers. We were mighty once, but... our strength is failing. It has failed us slowly over the course of a thousand lifetimes, while our enemies overrun us hold by hold. Only our fair capital yet stands but after numerous failed attempts to reclaim our lost cities, we can no longer hope to hold out on our own. We need your help."

Beren took a deep breath, unused to the focus required to deliver extensive exposition. In his world, everyone was already aware of the situation.

The Lion had sat motionless for the duration of the tale, quietly observing the stranger squirming in his seat. Only at the mention of delivering aid did he lean forward, hands clasped as if in prayer. He glanced over at Arden Durane as if to seek a second opinion from his ranking security officer on what he was about to say.

"Good sir, you have no idea the numberless questions I have for you. What you are describing is a whole other culture, a race of beings the surface world has no record of throughout history. The magnitude of our meeting here, today, is unprecedented. But, I can tell yours is a request most urgent, so I will not beat around the bush." An expression the Duerg had likely never heard before.

Thurion stood up, towering over the seated Beren like a golden-haired titan.

"These lands have enemies of their own, poised to strike from the shadows with a dagger in hand. I cannot pledge armies to a cause we are unfamiliar with while weakening our own defences. However," his gaze turned to Nina, whose heart's desires he could never deny. "Your Archon desires a meeting, face to face, and so it shall be. My daughter is the foremost historian of our age and will chronicle our journey. My household guard will accompany us, led by the redoubtable Lord Commander."

He turned to the Duerg Prince, inclining his head. "Do you deem my answer to your father's request acceptable?" Beren slipped off his chair and landed on the floor with a loud thud.

"Aye," he nodded excitedly. "Aye, that'll do!" Without skipping a beat, Thurion turned to Arden with instructions.

"Commander, have the Lionguard ready and rested for departure by tomorrow morning. I'll send word to Norvegr-fen - Théodred is to take charge in my absence. A challenge fit for our future king, wouldn't you say?"

 

[Arden Durane]

In turn Arden glanced over just as Thurion glanced over to him, the timing couldn't have been more perfect.

"Intrigued to say the very least." Arden spoke as he glanced back to Beren Blackmane and like Thurion mentioned he had many questions as well. As well as Nina Heavenshield did he was very sure of that.

The lands beyond their borders as well as beneath them, it was something he was surely curious about. Arden had seen some of this given his families history in particular his Mother.

This was something else though.

Very carefully they would have to tread.

"Commander, have the Lionguard ready and rested for departure by tomorrow morning. I'll send word to Norvegr-fen - Théodred is to take charge in my absence. A challenge fit for our future king, wouldn't you say?"

"At once your grace. I have all the confidence that Theodred will do an outstanding job." Arden spoke clearly with a respectable bow to the High King. "Beren it was a pleasure to meet you, we will see each other again soon."

The Jedi Master couldn't help but smile as he glanced towards Nina. He took her hand in his and placed a soft kiss there then spoke. "Princess, till our next meeting." The commander gave her a wink before leaving the trio behind to head off.

Truly a magnificent display that was the Courtyard were the Lion Guard barracks and courtyard were. The sounds of steel being forged and hammered by smiths and the clash of swords that were being utilized by the members to train and hone their skills. There numbers were few, they were not a full fledged army that numbered in the thousands. But each man that were in the Guard, fought as hard as twenty hardened soldiers combined. He was truly proud and honored more than anything to be a part of something so great. His father fought in the Guard and now so did his son. Even though he had been in command for some time. He still had so much more to prove than anyone else.

"We are to be armed and ready to march by the suns first light. Supplies necessary for the journey will also be prepared and ready." Arden commanded towards the ensemble before him. "This is uncharted territory for us, we must tread lightly. Not only are we personally escorting his highness but also Princess Nina. Stay on your guard my friends."

There was a unison of "Sir!" that echoed through the courtyard and Arden nodded his head with a small smiled. "Rest easy, dismissed."

Arden took a deep breath as he glanced up towards the sky, the wind whipping up around him. By suns first light they would be ready to depart and have everything assembled, it plenty of time before that.

Sleep, would not be easy for the Commander on this night.

Thurion Heavenshield

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

Her heart fluttered as Arden Durane kissed her hand, offering her suitor a lover's gaze as he turned to his duty, exiting the Heavenshield home. After giving Beren a brief tour of their humble abode, the Duerg soon turned in for the night in anticipation of returning home the coming day.

Returning to the living room, she found her father standing by the fireplace, staring at the family portrait of the entire clan dating back to his father, Thrand. Her work hung over the mantlepiece in the place of honour and depicted each member of their extended family in their prime, vigorous and vibrant. Lost in thought, he didn't notice her entrance. She crept up from behind and gently put her arms around his wide frame, unable to reach all the way around, and rested her head against his back.

"I am glad," her father said. "To be sharing in another adventure with you. Back then, it was just the two of us. Now look at us." Nina closed her eyes, seeing the event as clearly as the day it happened: When a father and his daughter fell from the stars to change the course of an entire world. "For all my triumphs and sacrifices, you will always be my greatest gift to the galaxy. My children, my grandchildren. My heart's pride and joy."

Thurion turned in his daughter's arms, embracing her. "Thank you, Papa, for..." she said, drying a tear against his chest. He smiled, knowing her heart as if it were his own. "Arden is the most worthy of men," he replied with a smile. "From the moment I found you on Umbara, all I've ever wanted for you is happiness. I know he provides it for you. I was worried you would never set aside time for love. I couldn't be happier for you, Snowflake."

She listened to the steady beat in his chest. Ever concerned for her dear Papa and the toll events had taken on him through the years, her greatest fear was for his heart: Each moment of joy seemed cursed to coincide with the most profound loss, tearing at his gentle soul. She could not bear to see him crushed. To see his heart become utterly shattered by the grief of losing another so close. She shed another tear, this one for him.

"Now, off to bed, little lady," Thurion wiped away the tear, smiling softly. She lingered for a moment, then shyly met her father's gaze as she voiced a childish request using sign language. Will you please read me a story? Like we used to?

He pressed his forehead against hers. "As many as you'd like, sweetie."

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

The following morning, at dawn's first light, the Lionguard and their Lord Commander were lined up and ready for departure outside the Heavenshield home, all of whom proudly paraded the golden lion upon their blue tabards. The Guard were seldom seen in large gatherings such as this as each member was granted full agency in pursuing their mission, no matter its nature. Theirs was the authority of the Lion King, and none ranked above them except their liege lord or royal family members. They were diplomats, bodyguards, investigators, and keepers of the peace.

They were Jedi in all but name.

Beren was feeling anxious and eager to get going. He'd been the first to wake, as the bedding of his guest quarters proved too soft and warm to his liking. They were not the cold stone slabs his kind were used to down below, just as so much of the Above appeared less rigid and stern. He paced the length of the porch back and forth until the front door opened to reveal Nina wearing her old adventurer's garb, always donning her blue cloak with the gold trim. Her gaze was immediately drawn to Arden Durane standing before his men as her heart soared again, intending to step towards him.

"Ah, there ye are," the stout fellow intercepted her before she could do so. "I'm well eager for us to be on our way. The creakin' of these here floorboards are gettin' to me!" Nina raised an eyebrow. "I see you've raided my mother's caf stash. How many cups did you have?" Beren recoiled. "Cups? I don't know. I just followed the old sniffer and found the smell pleasin'. Downed me a full pack of the stuff!"

Nina wasn't sure what was more impressive - that the man was still functioning or that he somehow managed to operate the caf machine. She let out an amused chuckle at seeing a far less withdrawn Beren for once. Both of them were then startled by the sudden unified salute of the Lionguard, for they knew their King drew near.

As the front door opened a second time, there stood the Lion in all his splendour, bedecked in black plate armour with its numerous golden lion iconography that had served him with distinction through several bloody wars and never faltered. Behind him flowed a shimmering blue cloak with the sigil of his house emblazoned in gold, and upon his head sat the Gryphon Crown, its wings framing his battle-worn features. So far removed was he from the dishevelled carpenter he'd appeared as the day prior that Beren could not help but bow his head in reverence.

The King bid the Prince to rise with a soft touch of his shoulder, and Beren did so. "F-forgive me, Your Majesty. I see now that you are who they say." Thurion smiled, patting him on his broad shoulder before presiding over his household guard. His cloak was pulled aside to reveal the sword Anarion at his side, and as he drew it from its resting place and held it aloft, the Lionguard too drew theirs and got down on one knee to hear their lord's command.

"Lions of the Pride! Fellow sons of Midvinter! Today marks a most historic event as we brave the unknown as one. Long and hard have we fought to safeguard our realm from would-be destroyers and despots. We've brokered alliances and slain great evils, and this time may prove no different if the Gods will it. With Prince Beren of Clan Blackmane as our guide, we strike out to make first contact with another Child of Midvinter deep beneath the very earth itself. There they stand alone and cut off, and so shall the Above ride to the aid of the Below! By the Light of Dawn, I bid thee rise and mount up - for now, we ride!"

Their swords sheathed, Thurion and his Lionguard mounted their steeds, with Nina permitting Beren to ride with her, as he had no riding experience. Together, the small but potent force set out, banners billowing in the morning sun as the capital's citizens began to stir in time to witness the departure of their High King. A horn was blasted to order that the main gate be prepared for their arrival, and as the heavy cavalry thundered forth, the garrison cheered them on, for it was a sight to behold.

They would make for the hidden entrance to the Under-Realm as per Beren's instructions, heading east towards the mountains and the rising sun.

 

[Arden Durane]

It was truly a sight to behold, to outsiders it would be something as miracle to actually see or witness. Every move, salute, gesture was made in unison upon the arrival of the Hight King Thurion Heavenshield and as well as the Princess Nina Heavenshield

He couldn't help but smile as he watched Beren Blackmane reaction to the entire process.

And he looked upon her again. The great love of his life, Nina. She could be at her absolute worst, and she would still be amazing and breathtaking to him. He caught her smile and even her eyes and he showed a big smile in return, giving her a small nod of his head. So much words conveyed in small actions such as that. She knew how he felt about her.

He would follow her to end.

He saddled up as he struck out with two members of the Lion Guard ahead of the main host, to scout ahead the territory that he knew and make sure there were no surprises. He knew that Beren wished them no harm. But they were indeed going into the darkness with this venture. Arden knew that there could be no mistakes on his end, he would never forgive himself.

Returning back to the main party host, he stood not in formation with them, but as an eagle watching over them. If something were to strike, they would indeed strike him first, and he would be first to meet them in the field.

The protector of all that he loved.

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

It was impossible not to get carried away by the sheer might of the advance of their elite host, the finest fighting force Midvinter could offer. The Lion Banner billowed proudly, accompanying the High King's entourage whenever on official business. Powerful hooves pounded the ground beneath her, ferrying her and Beren towards their destination in the east with a bestial strength far surpassing that of lesser equine breeds. Beren's thick arms locked around her waist were timid at first, but once they'd ascended into a gallop his fear of slipping and falling outweighed his awkwardness.

She beheld Arden Durane ahead of their host, marvelling at his sense of duty to scout ahead, always placing the safety of others above his own. His fair hair sailed on the wind behind him, and seeing him clad in full armour was splendid to behold, provoking in her desires that seldom surfaced due to her chaste personality.

"Tha's it, right there," the Duergar pointed briefly before wrapping his arm back around Nina, frightened of falling as he was. Following his directions, she guided their host towards the seemingly solid rockface of the mountain range. After hours of hard riding, the horses were at long last allowed their rest as their riders dismounted and watered their steeds, some offering a treat or two. Nina immediately sought the company of her dashing knight, offering a hopelessly infatuated smile.

"You are sure, Beren," the High King asked, seeking to make out any oddity along the mountain wall. "Try as I might, I don't see any signs of an entrance." The Dwarf chuckled. "Aye, tha's the idea, Yer Majesty! Us Duergar got several 'emergency exits' in the terrifying case of Dwarrowdelf becoming overrun and we're forced to flee. Church'd be none too pleased to learn of such a heretical notion..." The mere mention made his mouth sour with distaste.

Beren ran his thick fingers along the flat surface of the rockface until he located the correct spot, then pounded twice against the hard stone, causing a distant mechanism to trigger. He did this twice more, each in different places, and each time triggered another mechanism on the inside until suddenly a door appeared in the otherwise unassuming rockface. Nina gasped at the unexpected result, and some of the horses whinnied at the sudden rumbling, grinding noises.

"We shall have to leave the horses behind," Thurion instructed Arden. "We can ill afford a man to watch them. Set them loose. They know the way home if a predator were to appear." It was common practice among the Valkyri to let horses roam freely whenever possible to give them a better chance at survival.

Beren peeked inside the oppressive darkness to reach for several oil lanterns dusty from rare use. Their design was a marvel to behold regardless, as wiping away the layer of dust revealed the shimmering metal underneath. Thurion, Nina, and Arden were all given one, while the rest were distributed among the rest of the Lionguard. Upon entering the chamber within the mountainside, the light from their lanterns revealed massive gears and chains on either wall, while at the far side of the room, there protruded a lever from the stone floor.

"Everybody set?"

"Set for wh--"

Beren pulled the lever, slamming the door behind them and setting the large gears into motion. The floor beneath their feet rumbled and quaked, soon revealed to be descending into the absolute darkness. "A lift," Nina was swift to realise before stealing a kiss from Arden in all the excitement.

 

[Arden Durane]

The journey was long, well prepared Arden was. In truth, it was nice to be on a venture of this type. Into the wild, a grand adventure. It was indeed marvelous, he was with his King, trust members of the Lionguard....

Nina Heavenshield , she was the most important part. He found himself catching glimpses of her as he made his rounds ahead, and standing afar from the group. Keeping a vigilant eye on things, and he could see her amongst the charge. For a few seconds he would steal a glance her way, taking in her beauty.

Pure light emitted from her, she was flawless in every way.

"We shall have to leave the horses behind,"

"We can ill afford a man to watch them. Set them loose. They know the way home if a predator were to appear.

The High King spoke and the word was passed down along the company as they would begin their trek into this seemingly new world. As Beren Blackmane revealed the next series of events that included the lift.

Marvelous.... Arden thought as he glanced around and the life, and the greatest part was Nina giving him a kiss.

I"m incredibly happy, Nina....

Thank you

Arden looked to her flashing a big smile.



Thurion Heavenshield

 

[Beren Blackmane]

Beren was glad to be back underground, no longer feeling the nausea of the great outdoors. Never could he have envisioned such vast territories or the scent of fresh air, nor the endlessly blue skies or bright sun watching over it all. It was truly unknowable to one of his kind, with only the odd surviving account preserved by historians from the clutches of the Church, who maintained that the Duergar were born from rock and stone.

As he stood letting his hand caress the smooth rockface as the lift descended, the King of Men approached.

"Beren, I'm curious about this Church of yours. You seemed... less than devoted, one might say." Far be it for him to question a man's faith or the complications it might bring. Religion is intrinsic to many cultures and, when organised, it can become more powerful than even the government or head of state. Valkyri religion has never been organised in that sense; there are no temples or clergy hierarchy, with each person responsible for their level of devotion and household traditions. It had never had a hand in government.

Beren was reluctant to answer. With his return underground, the fear and paranoia of the Church's agents watching you at every turn returned as well. Still, he recognised taboos would need to be broken if these surface-dwellers were to aid his beleaguered father. Father. How he longed to see him.

"Aye, the Church of the One Divine. Us Duergar believe in one supreme being rather than a whole lot of 'em like you folks. The Church is... everywhere. They run our lives just as much as our sovereign and wield just as much power over the masses, as well as our armies. An invisible war is being fought in the streets of Dwarrowdelf for the souls of all Duergar; political favours are offered to win over key officials, shows of strength are held to win over the crowd, that sort of thing. Normal folk don't know - in public, church and state appear to be united by a common cause, while in private each side sharpens their knives. It's a true rat's nest, down there."

Thurion couldn't help but feel some of his confidence diminish at what he was being told. Though he had every intention of aiding this Archon of the Duergar, he realised he would most likely need to navigate the doctrines of the Church as well. He understood now how imperative his arrival was, putting himself in the unenviable shoes of his counterpart.

"Who leads the Church," he asked a follow-up question. Beren physically recoiled, demonstrating his disgust by spitting on the floor.

"The Grand Cleric. When you become a full member of the Church, you give up your old identity to serve the One Divine unquestioningly. Ruthlessly. Mercilessly. The Grand Cleric is chosen among senior members so, like them, they don't have a name. This one has been clamouring for supreme leadership of all Duergar for a long time, finding ways to challenge my father in all but open war, but make no mistake: This is a civil war being fought behind the scenes. It may be bloodless, but it is just as filthy and no less corrupting to the soul," he cautioned.

Suddenly, the lift came to a screeching halt, enough to put any man on their knees. Beren pulled the lever again but to little avail. "Some of the cogs may have rusted, or the chain might have gotten stuck," he offered possible explanations only to become paralysed with fear.

Drums.

Drums in the deep.

"Beren?" Thurion looked to the dwarven prince, who whispered but a single word in response. "Uruk...!"

"Lions, form up on me," the King of Men immediately sprang into action, drawing his sword. "We are being ambushed!"

Arden Durane