On This Joyous Day... [Silver Jedi/Lev Sanctum and friends]

[Coci Heavenshield]

Midvinter​

The Thaw​

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The morning of the Wedding​

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Tis the season of the Thaw on Midvinter. Vast snow-capped mountain ranges reach for the clear skies, the virgin snow melts sending rivulets of crystal clear water to the valleys below swelling the rivers and feeding waterfalls. The tall pines high on the mountain side laden with icicles begin to drip, the landscape is bare of thick snow blanketing the ground, only small patches to signal what once was. Tis the time for the sleepy creatures to awaken and begin to live once more out of their hollows and dens.

Among the villages across Midvinter, the Valkyri awaken to a bright day with joy in their hearts, for their Prince will marry this day. Within each village the blue and gold standard of Prince [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] will fly high atop the main halls and the people will prepare a feast in his honour. There shall be no song of Midvinter this day, the hammers of the forges that ring out across the Realm silenced, the peoples of this fair land lay down their tools of trade, and cease preparations of the coming harvest to enjoy this holiday.

The Grand Hall of Tháinbroek stands in readiness for the guest to arrive. The long tables festooned with sprays of flowers of the Thaw some gathered from the valleys, others from high on the mountainside, the banners of the Clans hang from high rafters and fall low into the vast room. The throne of High King [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] sits waiting for him.

In another part of the Grand Hall, Coci lies awake among thick furs warm against the chill of the morning. It is spring but it is cold.

She lets release a long breath as her nerves begin to build, but they are born from the excitement of the occasion. She has not seen Thurion since their arrival two days hence, her only company the Shieldmaiden [member="Ærin Firebrand"] who has been doing her best to keep her mind at ease and to keep her from escaping to go see her beloved. She has also schooled her in the traditions of the Valkyri and for this ceremony, which it is this that has created Coci's nerves, she simply does not wish to do anything wrong.

A gentle knock on the chamber door catches her attention, before a woman of the Hall enters with a wooden tray of food for breakfast, the very last thing Coci desires at this moment. After the woman leaves, placing the tray on a table by the wall, Coci climbs out of bed, allowing the furs to fall to the floor revealing her nakedness. It is odd but she is warming in the fur this way. The chill on air in the room is quick to find her skin and moving to fire, Coci dresses in light clothes.

The sound of hard leather boots clipping on the wooden floor of the corridor, approach. Within moments Aerin enters her room to begin preparations for the bride to be.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Never did he feel as lonely as whenever he did not share a bed with his beloved. Every morning he was forced to wake up without being able to take in her intoxicating scent and feel the warmth of her body against his was akin to torture. Sometimes he felt like actual torture would be preferrable. Such thoughts were soon extinguished as he was then reminded of the time he was left at the mercy of pirates. Only by knowing [member="Coci Sinopi"] and his friends were coming to save him did he fight through the punishment inflicted upon his body. Whenever he exposed his torso he felt uneasy doing so as many of the wounds, while mostly healed, were still clearly visible.

But today was not a day of past torments, but of the beginning of a brighter future for him and his family. Not only would he and his bride serve their order as its leaders, but now they would do so as lawfully wedded man and wife. While certain that most traditionalists would proudly object to such an occasion, he was not a traditionalist. Asha had taught him differently, and he remains loyal to her teachings.

Stood wearing nothing but underwear, Thurion stretches away the morning stiffness in the modestly warm sun casting its light through the window. Even now as the Thaw is upon them does the sun rarely visit, and when it does it's not as comforting as one would've liked, especially compared to a hot, humid world as Tabaqui. He glanced over the outfit laid out for him upon the foot of the bed, examining its fine fabrics and its intricate patterns along the collar and sleeves. When the silence was interrupted by sudden knocking on the wooden bedroom door, he did little to acknowledge whoever did the knocking.

"Morning, son," came the familiar voice of his father, Thrand. "You, uh... Are you decent?" Tossing on a pair of pants Thurion answered the door, opening it to see his father towering over him. It never ceased to amaze him just how large these Valkyri were, and that his own size was unmistakingly thanks to his father's genes. "Hi, dad. You alright?" The question seemed to shock Thrand, who laughed at the notion. "Am I alright? My son is getting married, and doing so in my house on the planet of our ancestors! How is that even a question?" Looking over Thurion's shoulder he noticed the set of clothes. "Good choice. I wore the same outfit when I married your mother. Another life, and all that..."

Thurion smiled. "I'm fine, dad. A bit nervous, but fine... Actually, I'm terrified." A huge hand was placed on his shoulder. "Then you know you're going the right thing." Always look to your elders for wisdom. "Well... Best I leave you to your thoughts. There's still hours until the ceremony, and I have much to attend to in the meantime." He turned to leave, yet stops midway. "I'll let anyone who wishes to see you know where you are. I hear plenty of ships have already descended upon the tundras outside the city gates." With a gracious nod his father disappeared down the corridor, and he was alone once more. Rather than getting dressed right away, Thurion shut the door and sat down in the middle of the room, assuming a meditative stance before closing his eyes.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

Glinting ocean-blue in the bright sun, the Sirena set down in a tundra field not far from the wedding of [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] and [member="Coci Sinopi"] . Setting the vessel down, Judah started to hope the frozen field wouldn't start thawing from the heat and weight of the vessel. How deep was permafrost again? Didn't it depend on the planet? Growing up in a hot,dry environment left him little knowledge of anything cold. A slight shrug and Judah pushed it out of his mind and finished shutting down the vessel.


Heading down the corridors, Judah entered the fresher. His hair was longer, shaggy. Perhaps a haircut should have been in order to look less homeless and more owner of a multi-million credit corporation. Judah wasn't sure who was in attendance but he doubted he knew more than a handful of folks to begin with.


A quick jaunt in the shower and soon the shaggy haired salvager was busy pulling on his navy suit. Hopefully it was appropriate for a Midvinter wedding event and there wouldn't be a cultural clash. If business had taught him one thing, it was that the smallest thing could set of a cultural misunderstanding. Buttoning his jacket, Judah stared at his reflection in the mirror.


Not too shabby Dashiell.


Quickly, he made his way out of Sirena. Eyes scanned the tundra landing field before settling on what his was looking for. Long strides started across the greening fields and by now wildflowers had come out. Not wanting to meet his date with nothing in hand, he picked several of the ice-blue wildflowers before finishing the final leg of the journey.


So there he stood, bouquet of flowers in hand in front of [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] 's vessel. His free hand reached out and knocked a rhythmic tune on the hull to let her know he had arrived.

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

[SIZE=12pt]Aerin picked off the plate of food on Coci’s table, no point in it wasting as it was clear the bride-to-be had no stomach for it. “Are you ready to go?”, she asked dropping all formal protocols as is her way when in private chambers. Moreover, the bond between warriors that had fought on the battle field something never broken or forgotten. All the preparations for the ritual in place, including the wedding dress awaited Coci in a special room toward the back of the Grand Hall. Aerin smiled as Coci fuzzed around the room and picked up her lightsaber. “I doubt you will be needing that? It will be safe here”. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]As Aerin led Coci through the Grand Hall, they passed many Valkyri business with final details for the wedding, most if not all of them, turned to look and give a smile to them. This only caused Coci to become more nervous and quickening her step she pushed passed Aerin and found her way. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“Now just relax and enjoy the day”,[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] Aerin said as she pushed open the door to the ritual room. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt][member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"][/SIZE]​

 

[Thrand Hearthfire]

Leaving his son's chambers in strides far bigger than any human could muster, the High King made his way to the throne room where the preparations were in full swing. No guests had arrived to his knowledge, so he took this moment to catch his breath, so to speak. He had been adamant in his son's wedding to go off without a hitch ever since receiving news of it taking place on Midvinter. It brought him joy to no end to hear the time had come for him to tie the knot with a woman he both knew and respected, even thinking of her as a daughter.

Of course, a father cannot bring up the concept of matrimony without thinking back to his own. Tython was a lovely place to marry on, with green fields of grass stretching on for miles until they turned into lush forest and then later mountains. It reminded him of his homeworld and what it would look like without its harsh wintery climate. The Thaw was as close as it got, and it was still colder than a witch's teat outside despite the fair weather. Oh, how beautiful she was with golden locks of hair caught by the warm breeze and eyes as emerald as the ground they stood on.

Gazing across the huge hall, at the far end stood the throne. Each time he turned to look at it he expected to see his father sat upon it, hair all white and with eyes just as sharp as those of a young man. Old Threign was made to rule, and examplified all that was good and noble in men. Back when he was but a runt running around without a care in the world, knees scrubbed and fresh from fighting the other young boys in the city - all for fun, of course - his father used to sit him down in his lap and tell him what the future held for him as the next High King. Thrand didn't believe him at the time, but it's odd how older generations carry wisdom seemingly unobtainable. You only realise the truth of it once you yourself belong to the older generation.

Lost in thought, he was surprised to find himself having seemingly teleported to the foot of the throne upon observing his surroundings. Rather than take seat in it, he instead sat down on the floor beside it like he would as a boy, expecting a hand to reach down and rough up his hair. He misses that.

[member="Coci Sinopi"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Ærin Firebrand"]​

 

[Connor Harrison]

Connor Harrison had touched down in his personal E-wing into the village of Tháinbroek the day before the grand wedding of his Silver Jedi allies [member="Coci Sinopi"] and [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]. With the great honour bestowed on him in giving Coci away to her new husband, Connor didn’t want to mess THIS day up for them. He had informed his Padawan [member="Syala Daivik"] to attend with the others as he wanted her to be there, but understood if she couldn’t make it.

The main worry was what to wear – his usual thermal gear and greatcoat was tempting, but that almost signified a life before…the change, and so didn’t choose it this time. Plus it made him look like more of a rogue than he was, and if he was around dignitaries, he had an Order to represent and fellow Jedi to make proud. So he opted for his new armor, black and silver but minus the gauntlets. His black cowl would be hand if it got cold, and his lightsaber hung at his side – partly to show his allegiance to the Jedi, but partly in case anything happened untoward.

But he highly doubted that.

Fresh faced and feeling the tinge of nerves, Connor felt the crisp fresh air work around his lungs with each breath as he walked through the city, taking in the society and culture of a people had never had really known. He knew of young [member="Ærin Firebrand"] and her way with words, so if all women here were like here it was a wonder the men survived.

But then, if all men were like Thurion, then Coci was going to be a very different sort of woman later on!

Connor started to think what this would mean for Coci. Would she be Coci Heavensheild now? How active would she be in the Order? Would she live here on Midvinter? Marriage and relationships were a notion not quite familiar with Connor. His mind was distracted by another, but that was something that would find its own way, and something a million miles from this grand occasion today.

The walk took him a while, but the Grand Hall was where he had been directed to go, and it loomed ahead as a pinnacle of the city. A few questions to the locals helped guide Connor to the mighty hall, and he accompanied a guard into to the building, looking at the grand design of it and bright decoration that had been a theme through Tháinbroek, signifying just how important a day this was for the planet, and people, as a whole.

[member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

[SIZE=12pt]As Coci crossed the threshold into to ritual room, she could smell the scent of the burning wood on the fires around the walls. Within the room the select females had gathered, including four elders of the Realm. They are here to perform the fertility ritual.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]

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[SIZE=12pt]They beckoned Coci to come forward without a word and indicated for her to stand in the centre of the raised platform. She removed her slippers before doing so and stood in readiness, three of the younger girls approached, barely dressed in only a loin cloth, their hair loose and cascading down their backs to the waist. They spoke not, but began to undress Coci removing her light clothing until she stood naked, the fires of the room warming her skin and setting a soft yellow glow over her body. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]An elder stepped forward and laid a gentle hand on Coci’s stomach, feeling the child moving inside her and she smiled a knowing smile to her. The elder turned toward the younger girls and indicated for them to bring the oils. The other elders moved to the fire and placed herbs within the flames, the white smoke began to fill the room with a heavy scent of the properties of the plants, it is intoxicating and refreshing to the senses and Coci breathed in deeply of it. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]The elder before her began to anoint her body with oils, beginning with her face and slowly working her way down Coci’s body over her shoulders, arms, and breasts and to the stomach and legs before completely the anointing of her back. The infused oils seeped into her body making it soft and perfumed and the light of the fire danced on her naked glistening skin.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]A little time would pass before they would proceed. A small stool is placed next to Coci and she is required to sit. The women gathered around her with bowls of warm water and a cloth to lightly bathe her, wetting her hair and body to cleanse. As the water washed over her body it pooled on the floor around the stool, one of the elders moved in front of her to complete the cleansing as she bathed Coci’s hips, loins and legs to the feet. The warm air would dry her body and hair and the final part of the ritual would begin.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]The elders moved off the platform to allow the younger females to complete the ritual. They gathered Coci’s long black hair and began brushing it and braiding a thin braid on either side of her head. They would style her hair in the tradition of the Valkyri, with one long single plait entwined with the thin braids to rest down her back. As Coci will be a maiden no longer after this day, she is required to plait her hair as a married woman, only maidens are allowed to wear their hair unfettered.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]With the ritual complete, Coci covered her naked body in a fur provided and moved to an anti-chamber and there she would dress for the ceremony. As she passed the elders Coci nodded her respects to them with a smile and entered the chamber. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt][member="Connor Harrison"] | [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"][/SIZE]​

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

Nina had been given her own room as she no longer needed to share bed with her parents, despite enjoying doing so from time to time. As the Midvinter sun struck her face through the window, she stirred beneath the covers and began rubbing her eyes with clumsy hands. The room itself was far larger than she was used to: first she had shared room with her father during her Thurion's pilgrimage aboard the Seren Heritage. Then there was Laekia where they lived in a humble apartment with very little extra space. Now on Tabaqui was she given her own room, fully furnished. This room made it look like a broom closet in comparison.

Crawling out of the large bed she had to resort to climbing down the side of it until her feet touched the floor. She wasn't known to wear socks, so with the tiniest of pitter-pattering she exited the room in search of someone she knew. She had been very sleepy when they were shown to their rooms the night before, so she wasn't sure where Thurion or Coci were quartered. Suddenly she found herself entering the throne room where flowers and fabrics of every colour adorned the large hall. "Nina?" came a familiar voice.

Turning her head to find Thrand sat beside the throne rather than on it, she beamed a smile at her grandfather. "Come here, girl. It's alright." He reached out for her, and immediately she hurried over to find a seat in his over-sized lap. She felt far safer there than among all those people towering over her while tending to the final preparations, keeping the fires burning and various minor duties. Nina had barely seen Thrand since their initial meeting a few years back, and they'd immediately grown fond of each other.

"See that?" he pointed towards the twin doors at the far end. She nodded. "That's where you and Coci will arrive, and then you'll walk aaaall the way down the aisle to where we're seated right now." His finger pointed as he explained, starting from the far end all along the aisle and ending by tickling her tummy. Without further word Thrand plucked her in his arms and moved to sit on the throne, putting her back down in his lap as if to echo his father's behaviour towards him at that age.

[member="Coci Sinopi"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Ærin Firebrand"] | [member="Connor Harrison"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

Not since the end of the battle had Aerin seen Thrand. She had traveled south to her home, Clan Sabina in order to place her cousin in the position of Chieftain and to re-establish the Clan after the losses they had taken from the battle. Many members of Clan Sabina perished on the field that day, many men and women had not returned to their families and she and Theard would offer support and comfort for all those that had lost much. But today she could allow herself to indulge in more joyous thoughts, today is a day to look to the future and not dwell on the losses of the past. One will never forget of course, but one must not allow the memories of pain to remove the ability or will to live. The dead would not wish for that or all their sacrifices would have been for nothing.

Aerin had left Coci by the door to the ritual room, the end of her duty had come at the close of the door and now she went to the Grand Hall to make sure the room was ready. Upon entering her eyes fell on her Lord and King, [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] holding a little girl. Aerin watched from the side of the room as he explained the proceeding, he looked well.

Finally, she moved from the doorway and approached. "My Lord", she said with a slight bow. "It is a pleasure to see you again, and on such a grand occasion", she began the pleasantries, which would not last very long. Aerin inclined her head in the same manner to the little girl on his lap, "My Lady", she added, having never seen this little one before today, but it would be clear to her she is family.

She approached the two and stood by the throne and grinned, "How is my lords .. seat?", she jested once more with him, he would know. But she gave him a look to answer without his usual words in front of the small child, she doubted that would last.

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[member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"]​

 

[Connor Harrison]

”Thank you,” Connor nodded graciously as the guard indicated through stone arch into a large room.

They had walked up to the Grand Hall itself with decorations adoring both sides; fresh flowers, colourful flags and decorative ornaments. Hugging the back wall, a real fish out of water, Connor looked around the hall at all the fabrics coming from the high ceiling; banners, flags, shields. This was an occasion like nothing he’d seen before.

The hall was being prepared by a number of figures and it looked to be a standard wedding set up; seating, the aisle, the large throne. A throne occupied by a figure, was this a King, or member of the royal family? Connor felt like he was in another world. There was a strong Force presence in the Hall, but that wasn’t really a concern right now for the Silver Jedi – who knew who many Force warriors were around the place.

Turning his head to look around, eyes peering out from the side at the commotion by the head throne, Connor didn’t know what to do – he felt very much out of place and was in the wrong room. Was no-one else here? To be honest, he needed to find Coci and make sure she was alright and at least know what the order of service was, and where he needed to be.

Breathing out, he turned back to the aisle and started to it, but thought against going down there in case he jinxed it, and stepped around the seating to move slowly forward. He stood quietly to the side and watched the family on the throne with a handmaiden of some sort and a child, and he could see something of Thurion in the man seated, so perhaps his father? So this WAS a King.

[member="Ærin Firebrand"] | [member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Sinopi"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Ærin Firebrand"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]

 

[Nefertari Sovint]

Nefertari barely knew Coci or Thurion, yet had still been invited to their wedding. This was certain to be a happy occasion, a welcome break from the usual argument in the galaxy of who killed who.
An N-1 began its descent, revealing a bird's-eye view of the beautiful planet below. A few whirs and beeps came from the droid behind Nef
"It is amazing, isn't it R3? Now let's try to find this Tháinbroek"
After a little while, the Jedi Knight touched down and made her way toward the Grand Hall. It was huge, bigger than the mansion Nef had grown up in even.
The interior reminded Nefertari of a fantasy story, which was cool.
She had been to high society weddings before, but it had certainly been a long time. This was something Nef didn't want to screw up.

The apparent king of the place sat on the throne. Nef was shy, so she kept to the shadows; only meaning to speak if noticed and spoken to.

[member="Ærin Firebrand"], [member="Nina Heavenshield"], [member="Coci Sinopi"], [member="Judah Dashiell"], [member="Thurion Heavenshield"], [member="Connor Harrison"]

 

[Kei Amadis]

Ambiguous statement's rickety old freighter looked one foot smarter today, a rare day! Stepping off it Kei was in full dress military uniform, sharp pressed trousers, polished shoes, and orange ribbon down his waist. Clean deep black in color, the attire was decorated further with oranges, and golds on display. Unity his saber was to his hip, a part of his uniform as much as a part of him. Kei had even clean shaved, stop the press. Dusting his officers cap off with a sharp smack of his hand, tucked under his arm, gift in the other hand, the ex-general was ready.

Entering the grand hall, striding forward, he paused to look up and admire the place. He wasn’t an artist but this was impressive, throne, banners, adornments it had it all. Nodding to [member="Connor Harrison"] in passing, the padawan kept to the back of the guests. Knowing [member="Coci Sinopi"] from their time at war, but not part of the family or long member of the order, it was the natural place for even an Epicanthx to be.

There he found someone else off in the shadows, [member="Nefertari Sovint"]. Kei as a rule was protective of anyone feeling nervous, it was almost instinctive. Feeling that unease due to his long experience of tension, and now his attempts to train easing tension through the force. “Miss.” He said in a calm assuring tone. Placing his gift to the floor, he hoped he'd have a chance to offer it to the couple's father before the day was done, a mark of respect in his household at weddings. [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"]

Linking his wrist in his large hand, arms down and forward, cap under his arm, “quite a place.” Not much for words, short and sweet, a solid grin given to the young lady [member="Nefertari Sovint"], hoping to break the tension. The Padawan returned watching outward across the assembling crowds.

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Judah Dashiell"]


Siobhan remembered her own marriage very well. Naboo was always beautiful, but on that day it had been especially so. Some of her closest friends had been there on the happiest day of her life. Tegaea had been gourgeous, radiant and majestic. Every inch the queen her wife thought she was. It had been a day of such joy and happiness. Then the lovebirds had gone off on their honeymoon. The details of what had transpired there were probably not the sort of thing to describe in polite company, especially since children might end up being corrupted, but suffice to say much fun had been had. As corny as it sounded, it had been heavenly bliss to her.


Yet these days seemed so distant now, she found as she stood there in her cabin, using a compact mirror to scrutinise her appearance while Harmony fussed over her hair. Her face was shapely and still very attractive, but viciously scarred. A finger, the fingernail delicately manicured, absentmindedly travelled across the side of her face, tracing a scar that went from across her cheekbone done to the edge of her jaw - one of the many presents the wars had given her. To many battles to remember where she had gotten them from. Obviously her lips were still full and her blood red lipstick perfect. For the occasion Siobhan was wearing a magnificient blue and silver dress that left her toned but scarred arms exposed. Her dark brown mane, normally so unruly, was elegantly done up and she wore her favourite necklace with sapphire stones. Her lightsabre, rarely used these days and thus more ceremonial than functional, was clipped to her silver belt.


No matter what worries and concerns might besiege her mind, outwardly she had to appear as regal and indomitable as ever. As she liked to believe she was. "You look beautiful, Mistress. Like a Princess," Harmony, her ever-faithful servant girl from Dahomey spoke into her ear.


"Thank you, dear," but Siobhan was not really paying attention. Her mind was elsewhere; as a matter of fact it was miles away. Her musings were interrupted by the sound of boots making little noise on the ground, heralding the arrival of a tall and muscular female Atrisian dressed in a Firemane uniform, a bolt pistol on her hip.


"Lady, a Mr. Dashiell has arrived. He has brought flowers for you."


Siobhan raised a delicate eyebrow at that. For just a moment her lips curved into something like a thin smile as she was shaken out of her somber mood, though it was only an interval. "Has he? That's sweet. Let him in. And go fetch Galina."


"Yes, ma'am," the soldier saluted with military precision and clicked her heels, then turned away to let Judah inside the yacht. As Siobhan slowly turned around Harmony quickly handed the Countess her cane, which had elaborate Eldorai runes carved into it. At least it was a nice cane!


"Thank you," Siobhan gripped the cane tightly as she took a step forward, then another. She was in evident pain as she limped, but was doing her best not to show it. However, it did not escape her attention that Harmony did not seem happy, for it was reflected in her aura. The normally carefree, snarky 'attendant' seemed a good deal more subdued in her mood. "Smile, Harmony. It's supposed to be a day of celebration."


"I know, Mistress. It is a blessed day for them and I wish them well. But I find it difficult to. First Shari, now the news about..."

"Kaeshana. I know. Try to distract yourself now, smile today. We'll have little to smile about in a few months," Siobhan said, keeping her voice low, before apparently realising that these words were probably the exact opposite of encouraging. "Besides, I've been told there'll be cake!"


"Now that's an argument in its favour, though I think you're just hoping my butt will get bigger," Harmony joked very lamely. Clearly Siobhan did not recruit her attendants for their phenomenal wit, but then her own lines tended to be as corny as a maize field and her innuendo terribly obvious.


That made Siobhan chuckle slightly, though it soon died down. "I like it just the way it is," and naturally she could not resist running her free hand over Harmony's well-shaped derriere before stepping past her. The attendant of course caught up and was right beside her, there to offer support, but Siobhan waved her aside, despite the pain she was evidently suffering from. Pain is just weakness leaving the body. That was her old mantra. "I'm fine. My fur coat please." Her tone was insistent, firm.


(([member="Tegaea Alcori"], [member="Galina Kerrigan-Alcori"] - if either of you wanna appear, hop in here)).

 

[Tegaea Alcori]

[member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

Tegaea Alcori was not accustomed to running late. No, not at all. Everything ran with military precision, a holdup from her lifetime spent in various armed forces. Except this time.

Still, it was important not to get angry, it was important not to push too hard.

“Chesna?” she asked.
The Eldorai materialised beside her. “Stabiliser is broken, Mistress, we can’t enter atmosphere without it.”
“Cause?”
Chesna looked uncomfortable. “It seems as though maintenance did not, well, they didn’t expect….”
Tegaea took a deep breath. Chesna didn’t want to drop anyone into the pit. Calm. They are doing what they can.
“Can it be fixed?”
“Temporarily, yes. It’ll need proper repairs on the ground.”
“Then I’d better get ready. If we’re late, well, that’s the fashionable entrance.”

In her ship’s dressing room Chesna had laid out a red dress for her. It was not THE red dress, but Tegaea liked it a lot regardless. It also rather better fitted the occasion than the other one!
As she stared into the mirror whilst Chesna teased out her hair, looking at what twenty years of conflict had wrought. She was still pretty, she acknowledged. No one could tell that one of her eyes was not the original one, a cloned copy to replace one that a monster had cut out. She had her share of scars it was true, but she had gotten through everything surprisingly well.
Better than her wife anyway.

Finally, there was a shudder and a humming sound followed by a distant cheer. It seemed the ship was repaired.
“Take us down. We have a date and a wedding to attend.”

She sent her wife a quick message.
“Sio, bit delayed but just touching down now. Will meet you at the wedding. Love you.”

She naturally didn’t know of Judah’s presence.

 

[Baalagor]

It was safe to say that Midvinter was certainly the farthest from the Silver Temple on Voss that Syala had ever been in, well, her entire life, to be sure. Rarely did she venture so far from what she considered home, but this was a special occasion, to say the least. Having been invited to come along by her Master [member="Connor Harrison"], and it was something she had wanted to be there for since she was made aware of the wedding in the first place. This was a day to forget all of the turmoils that came with a galaxy at war and simply focus on the happy times for awhile, to be among friends and not have to worry about being on guard and prepared for whatever dangers there may be.

This planet was foreign to her in every respect, but she was intrigued by it as well. Eventually, after a bit of curious exploration on her part, she had found her way to the Grand Hall, and shortly thereafter been directed to where the union itself would take place. It was large, spacious, and everything one imagined when they heard the word 'grand'. Along with the beauty came a sense of foreignity, something that had been entirely expected. This was a culture largely unfamiliar to her and likely the rest of those in attendance who didn't call this planet home. Still, it was obvious they were welcome there, and the atmosphere in the hall was a friendly one, if not filled to the brim with latent Force energy.

It took mere seconds, if that, for her to locate her Master in the nearly empty room, devoid of anyone save for Connor and the one currently seated on the throne, who she assumed to be royalty of some sort, perhaps the king she'd heard of previously. Without a word she stepped up next to him, reaching out through the Force to touch gently on his presence in indication that she was here now and with him in every sense of the word, whether it be simply for company or a deeper sort of connection such as the bond they had formed.

In comparison to his dark attire she was dressed simply in her Jedi robes, comprised of light browns and beiges, fitting and yet loose at the same time, the darker, hooded cloak hanging merely centimeters above the floor, the boots she wore rising to mid-calf and something of a dark brown. It was all she could think of to wear that constituted formality while still telling of her allegiance, and with the temperature of the planet she wasn't allowed much freedom of choice in that regard. It hadn't raised any complaints thus far, so she assumed it to be appropriate.

Her grey-blue gaze strayed to her Master, the same smile present on her lips as it always was, hinting at thoughts and secrets untold. "It's good to see you here, Master." It wasn't a title typically used, but keeping up appearances was always important.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] | [member="Tegaea Alcori"]



It didn't take too long for someone to let him into the yacht, Firemane by the looks of her. Judah always found it mildly amusing that Siobhan took security with her. The woman could crush tanks with her mind or so rumor had it. Maybe it was more of a psychological comfort. Back up should anything go wrong. It looked like he had a few moments to wait for Siobahn, allowed to mill around in the general lounge of the ship, under watchful eyes of course.


Flowers still in hand, Judah adjusted his tie slightly before rocking back on his heels. He was a bit of a loss at what to say to the Firemane guard. Wasn't one had a seen around any of his facilities. Maybe one Siobhan kept close at hand.


"If this is what Midvinter considers a thaw I'd hate to see a cold day."

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

[SIZE=12pt]Her senses flared as many started to enter the Grand Hall, all of them with signatures of varying degrees and all of them unsure about their surroundings or what they should do. Aerin rested a hand on the shoulder of her King to draw his attention to the incoming crowd. She however, moved from next to the throne and stood in front of Thrand and the little girl, her duty to protect the King at the forefront of her mind regardless of the day and regardless of the guests. Afterall she knows them not save for one who’s signature recognisable to her. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]Oh yes the snarky one[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt], she thought of [member="Connor Harrison"]. She waited for him to approach before addressing him. “Master Harrison, good you found your way. I believe Lady Sinopi requires your presence, you will find her through those doors and left along the corridor, there is only one door in which you will find her”. She gave him a slight bow before moved back toward the King Dawnbringer, and be ready for his bidding if he so wished. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt][member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] | [member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Syala Daivik"] | [member="Kei Amadis"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Tegaea Alcori"] | [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] | [member="Nefertari Sovint"] | [member="Xander Carrick"] | [member="Hawk Solo"][/SIZE]

 

[Connor Harrison]

Connor turned gently to see more people now filter into the hall. Some hung back, admiring the building, others moved to the seats, other greeted friends and allies brought together by this day. He nodded a return gesture to [member="Kei Amadis"] and watched him move around.

Then to the side he saw [member="Syala Daivik"] – his Padawan – coming along to his side dressed in her Silver Jedi robes and it complemented her well, looking to be in touch with her standing as a Jedi Padawan in a world as naturistic as Voss. He greeted her with a small smile and placed his hand on her back as she stood beside him.

”Welcome to Midvinter, Padawan. I’m glad you were able to make it here. You are surrounded by your fellow Silvers, and others who serve the family and the Republic, so don’t feel nervous or out of place – you’re wanted here, and I will introduce you to others later.”

A second later, the handmaiden came before the throne and it was [member="Ærin Firebrand"] whom he had encountered once before and it had been a frosty reception, quite literally. Safe to say the handmaiden persona wasn’t quite what she was going for. He lowered his head in respect to her position within the royal family.

”Good to see you Miss Firebrand. Thank you, I will go at once.”

Turning to Syala, he said ”Excuse me, Sy. I need to go see Coci. Make yourself known to others. You’re my Padawan, and you’re a Silver Jedi – let that confidence shine. I’ll be back soon.”

He placed his hand on her arm and gave it a gently squeeze and sidled away from the ceremony area to the doors indicated by Aerin. The doors were heavy as he pulled them open, and followed the stone corridor left to a door at the end which was adorned with small bouquet of flowers. A warmth passed through Connor as he knew what he would find behind there, and a pang of envy hit him; Coci had come from a different place, found the Silver Jedi and now was about to start a new chapter in her life.

Connor rested his knuckle on the wooden door – how he wished he could do the same.

He knocked three times and waited.

[member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] | [member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Tegaea Alcori"] | [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] | [member="Nefertari Sovint"] | [member="Xander Carrick"] | [member="Hawk Solo"]

 

[Thrand Hearthfire]

When Aerin appeared before him and Nina, he offered her a gracious nod by way of greeting. The two had been through much together and keeping the facade of king and subject had become like a game to them, knowing they need not show each other such courtesies. "Lady Firebrand. I wasn't aware you cared so about my..." He looked down at Nina in his lap, choosing his words carefully. "...seat." They were soon interrupted by a man he'd never seen before, but seeing how the fiery redhead did not chop his head off at his mistaking her for a handmaiden, Thrand assumed the two were aquainted. Aerin had seen the stars, much like himself in his youth, and would've encountered many non-valkyri in her travels, after all.

The man was not the only stranger to waltz into the grand hall. The twin doors swung open again and again as more guests arrived, each seemingly more outlandish than the other. The differences in culture was intriguing and could potentially prove helpful in widening his people's perspective on off-worlders. Valkyri were known for being tolerant against outsiders to a degree, but there were always those stubborn enough to feel contempt against men and women sailing the stars on iron longboats seemingly without oars. It wasn't natural to them, and even Thrand confessed he knew nothing about how space travelling worked.

Thrand wore no crown as of yet - the thing wasn't very comfortable. It chafed his forehead. He only wore it for grand occasions like royal gatherings or weddings, such as this. He would fetch it before the ceremony. For now his sitting on the throne would be the only indicator as to who he was. Taking Nina in his arms he stood up and greeted those that had arrived. "Welcome, friends, to Tháinbroek and planet Midvinter! Please, make yourselves at home! We're still a couple hours away from beginning the ceremony, so help yourselves to any drink available in the meantime. There's mead, and... well, more mead. Oh, and water!" There was a certain giddiness to his words. To have so many outsiders grace his hall to honour his son and his bride in turn honoured him, as well, and he was eager to show them every hospitality.

He turned to Aerin. "Lady Firebrand, could you please show little Nina here to her father? I bet he'd welcome some company." He then passed Nina into her arms and into her care.

[member="Ærin Firebrand"] | [member="Connor Harrison"] | [member="Nefertari Sovint"] | [member="Kei Amadis"] | [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] | [member="Tegaea Alcori"] | [member="Syala Daivik"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"]​

 

[Corvus Raaf]

Corvus sat in the cockpit of Raven 2 and debated. But like old times, it was [member="Kana Truden"] she was talking to and not her cantankerous protocol droid.

"Dress or Jedi robes? Am I here as Corvus or as a representative of the Order. And should that matter and even if it did, should I be tied to convention, I mean, should I do the opposite, just to show I can. I mean, I'm just one of a lot of guests, so am I over-thinking this. And what are you wearing - and don't say a grey jump-suit per-leeeeease, and I still don't have any shoes, so if I do wear a dress, do I go bare-foot or wear my boots and...and...and."

She slumped back in the chair, gazing at the planet that grew larger with every passing second. "Help me..." It was like old-times and that made this trip extra special. They weren't going to fight beasts in an arena, or protect a senator or even spend time in a bacta tank (or at least that was the plan) - they were simply going to chat, enjoy themselves and see two people get married. Corvus was getting familiar with the concept and how it applied to Jedi. She didn't see how it might apply to her and wondered what Kana's thoughts were - but that could come later. For now, she simply needed to know what to wear. If only Kana knew that if she chose to opt for advising on a dress, they would have to start all over again with the question of which dress. But they had a few hours until the ceremony was due to begin. That ought to be enough time. Surely?

[member="Coci Sinopi"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]