Private Time well spent in Heaven

[Connel Vanagor]

Seeing Heaven
Midvinter
Heavenheim

Michael, Gabriel, Azrael, Sariel, Raphael, Jeremiel, Connel, Raguel
[Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]

Though he loved the trip into Midvinter, Connel loved travelling to Heavenheim. The lush landscapes, the scenery, it was out of a fairy tale, it was just so beautiful an experience. This made him smile, every time that he flew in. The flight was as breathtaking as always and it almost made him forget why he was here.

No, Connel was not here to apologize for being unable, or promise to continue to try to find Coci, that was already going on and that went without saying at this point. No, today he was here for something else, since Father died, he was holding a few things of Caltin’s and he needed to make sure that they were handled properly.

Buster was in the co-pilot’s seat happily looking out. He recognized the landscape and began his little dance, and putting his paws on the console (everything on it was deactivated so he could paw all he wanted to), Connel just smiled at him. You know where we are, don’t you buddy?

A happy whine and a bark later

Setting the ship down on the natural landing pads at the entry to the town, BRAD began shutting down the systems as Connel grabbed the gear bag full of his father’s things and Buster was all too happy to wait at the ramp. He knew he was coming. Hey BRAD, you wanna come?

BoooEEEP [Translation: “I can COME? You’d better believe it!”] Within seconds the ship was settled and the droid was happily rolling up to his other side.

As the ramp lowered in a hiss of steam, Connel stepped off as Buster was already on the ground, prancing around happily in the snow. BRAD was taking in everything like a sightseer.

“Always a pleasure to see a member of House Vanagor! Welcome Conservator Connel.” Exclaimed one of the guards. It was always heartwarming to be welcomed like this. Always. Even when he would come here as a child. Only now, when he was addressed by his father’s “title” did it really bring a smile to his face.

Thank you, for the welcome, and your dutiful service. You do the planet and the people proud. It was a respect he gained working with Omega Squad, make no mistake, Connel had always respected those who served, it was how he grew up, but now it was different. Buster of course sat and waited for pets, which he got from each guard before walking along.

Into the walk up towards the castle he began to smile, seeing the small stores and shops, including a bakery. Walking in, it was time to get Buster his treat, and a sandwich for himself. Maybe a doodad for BRAD if possible. The Baker looked at him with a reverent smile, “You look so much like your father, with your mother’s eyes”.

That hit hard, in the best way possible.

Thurion Heavenshield • TAGS​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

M I D V I N T E R
CITY OF HEAVENHEIM
THE KINGSWOOD​

As if it were fated, by the time the statue of Caltin Vanagor was relocated to its final resting place within the Kingswood, the first snow of the season fell upon the land, ending the all-too brief respite from its cold clutches. His brother's likeness, however sheltered by overhanging branches far above it, had become laden with a thin coat of white. Thurion reached up and brushed off what he could, for the statue even towered over himself. He took a few steps back to try and admire its craftmanship, but it only made his heart heavier doing so.

"I know now how you feel," said the Lion to the hunched old man by his side. "How you've felt, all this time."

Uncle Bors leaned heavily on his staff. He would have dismissed the comment with his usual scoff and stoicism, but because it came from his nephew and, above all, his king, the ancient man felt deeply touched instead.

"I've lost a brother before, Uncle. Twice, even. Why does this hurt run so much deeper, Uncle?" Bors inched closer and put a gloved hand upon Thurion's shoulder. "Because it was the brother you chose, my boy. Not the one chosen for you. Those bound by blood may end up drifting apart, but those bound by oath? We choose them, and are chosen by them, because our hearts and minds are one in ways even family cannot comprehend."

Thurion turned to the old man, ever his most faithful and stalwart counselor.

"Speaking for those fortunate enough to have been chosen, when your dearly departed father — bless his soul — asked me to be his brother, it was the single greatest honour of my life. He was my best friend, and my future king. His eyes promised a future brighter than the stars themselves." Bors reached up and cupped his nephew's chin, and their eyes met.

"You have those same eyes, my boy. Make no mistake; being your brother was the single greatest honour of that man's life. He would have followed you to whatever end, and he did. He gave his life with gladness in his heart, knowing he'd fulfilled his oath. Now, I may not have had a chance to die for my brother, but I do believe I got something better out of it. I got to be your uncle."

Thurion kissed his uncle's hand and embraced the old man in a rare emotional moment with the otherwise surly seneschal. It is good to be generous nearing the end of one's life, and so it was for the veteran 80 years his senior. Already the oldest living Valkyri ever recorded, Bors Greythorne held no illusions he was long for this world, but would serve until his last. For his beloved brother.

"Sire," one of his Lionguard appeared, careful not to ruin the moment by barging in.

"Young Master Connel of House Vanagor is come to see you, Your Grace."

The Lion gave a sharp nod. "Thank you. Send him through."

Connel Vanagor ​

 

[Connel Vanagor]

Seeing Heaven
Midvinter
Heavenheim

Michael, Gabriel, Azrael, Sariel, Raphael, Jeremiel, Connel, Raguel
[Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]

The Baker, we’ll call her “Thalen” , had her exchanges to make before stepping around and giving Buster his treats and scratches. She even had a small flag for BRAD, which he was all too excited for (and how many times does a droid get something from a baker???). Thalen’s small yet thoughtful gestures brought unexpected joy to the droid, highlighting the unique bond between humans and machines. BRAD’s excitement underscored how even simple acts of kindness can create meaningful connections, transcending the boundaries of their respective roles.).

Thank you, so much. How much do I owe you?

She just scoffed at him. “Oh please, your money is no good here.”

No, come on… He was not going to let the woman lose revenue just because she knew him, and enjoyed petting his dog. That wasn’t fair.

“Your father was a wonderful human being, and your mother is here several times a day when she is on the planet. You have your father’s altruism, but you also have his compassion. So if you are so determined to give payment…” She reached over the counter for another pastry, and handed it to him. “I forgot to give this to little Buster… he is growing up so fast. Do me the favor of giving this to him and we are square, and I will accept nothing else.”

This planet. These people. Is it any wonder why I love this place? “Home away from home.”

Buster was already outside, getting head scratches from a passerby who was suddenly started by the young Jedi Knight. He happily waved the younger man off, who was more than happy to continue to give the pup some attention before putting the treat down in front of him. To which he attacked.

Thanks for being here with me, buddy. Thank you for coming as well BRAD, I’m glad you’re around.

BEEEEPPEPPP [Translation: “Always happy to be of service. Thank you for bringing me.’]

It wasn’t what he meant, and that was absolutely fine. It made him smile.

The walk started up again as he took a couple of bites of his amazing sandwich. Of course, Buster felt like he was getting some as well and made sure to let Connel know through audible terms, but of course it was all in fun. BRAD was all too happy to take holo-images of everything, not for anything “official” he was just a happy traveler right now. This was a rare “humanizing” image of the Shadow, as he was often all too serious.

He missed days like this.

He needed days like this.

The walk up to the castle was beautiful this time of year, the small, thin blanket of snow just covering the ground. Enough to lay a beautiful bedding across the land, but not enough to do any damage or cause any problems, at least not to the locals. The Lionguard, who met him at the gates was always an amazing sight to behold. “Conservator Connel. A pleasure as always.”

Still shaken by the title, he smiled. The pleasure, as always, is mine. If his highness is available… I am sorry to come unannounced…

Waved off as if it was no trouble, reminded Connel of the way things were done here. Sure, he was “family” but this was still the King, and his days were not there simply to say “hi” to “nephews”. The thought made him inwardly chuckle as he thought of what his mother would say in a time like this.

Don’t overthink it.[/I]

He was.

It took a few moments, but one of them sent a message over a console and nodded. A few more moments went by before several nods and acknowledgments were made. “His Highness is in The Kingswood. If you give us a moment, we will give you an honor guard.”

Connel just smiled an altruistic smile. Just an escort will do, It has been a little bit since I have walked the grounds on my own and I don’t want to get lost.

A nod later “Very well.” Connel was ready to go, but not before Buster got more of his head scratches from the guards at the gate. The guards smiled and nodded, understanding his desire for a simple escort. Connel began his walk, enjoying the familiar sights and sounds of The Kingswood. As he strolled, he reflected on the peacefulness of the grounds, feeling grateful for the moment of solitude.

It was when he saw the statue, that things got real.

Wow.

Slowly, walking up the steps, seeing Uncle Thurion and Lord Greythorne standing there, as welcoming as always, he could not help but smile. BRAD was looking around, not taking images at the moment (he had stopped once they went through the outer gates out of respect) but happily looking around and beeping tones of amazement. Buster was wiggling and wriggling waiting for permission to go on and say “hi”, he was too well behaved though to just go up and do so. So he sat and waited.

Highness… My Lord… Family or not, he showed them both the proper respect. Hand resting on the gear bag. It’s been too long.

Thurion Heavenshield • TAGS​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

"Connel."

Thurion met his nephew halfway and embraced him tightly, and once concluded he cupped both of Connel's cheeks and looked him in the eye. There was pain and sadness, but also anger and confusion. All natural emotions where lost loved ones were concerned. Aye, there was much of himself in those eyes, staring back at him.

"My boy. Oh, my poor boy."

He held him again, this time nurturing and comforting. He held him like so for some time, as if making up for lost time — or worse, the times he should have been there to hold him. "Does he speak to you too," he asked with a soft smile. "Myself, I cannot seem to get rid of the old man."

Grey-Boar shambled towards the pair, leaning on his staff without the need to bow his head, hunched as he already was.

"We all mourn yer Da, me lad," the ancient offered his condolences, reaching out with a trembling hand to touch Connel's shoulder. "He and I did not speak often, but he brought my nephew," he looked to Thurion, "our King, back home. That day, I saw in him mine own fears and sorrows, and I knew then he was as a brother to him in all but blood. Devotion like that is only ever recognised by another sworn sibling."

All eyes turned to the towering statue; a marvel of artistry only seen on monuments to kings and gods.

"Aye, ain't no use frettin'," the Boar grunted. "Big man's at the Allfather's side right now, as sure as the sun will set."

Words to comfort both young'uns, he figured.

"Will you go see your mother while you're here," prodded the Lion. "We've made her as comfortable as could be, but she misses her husband. And, she misses her son. I make sure to visit her every day, but I fear I make a poor substitute for family."

Connel Vanagor ​

 

[Connel Vanagor]

Seeing Heaven
Midvinter
Heavenheim

Michael, Gabriel, Azrael, Sariel, Raphael, Jeremiel, Connel, Raguel
[Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]

The embrace was welcomed. Vanagor gave it back to the man, in a manner of speaking. It just felt “good” to be like this. If only for a moment. He missed the days of a simple life, before seeing the galaxy set ablaze the way it had. No, Connel couldn’t hide the pain, or sadness of everything he had seen, but he was not the kid he once was.

"Does he speak to you too," he asked with a soft smile. "Myself, I cannot seem to get rid of the old man."

Every day. He often speaks through me in my new Learners. It’s good though, I want it that way. It’s motivation for me.

Hand on his uncle’s shoulder, he smiled to Bors. Thank you, My Lord. I always thought he modeled much of his stoicism and approach after you, that silent “Vanguard”.

With all attention on the statue, Connel was reminded of the words on the bottom “I’m no one special”. Those words, as self-depricating as they may be, really enveloped everything that a Jedi was, and was meant to be. Someone who was capable of, and willing to do amazing things, not because they thought no one else could, but so that no one else had to. It hid hard, looking at those words, but still worth a smile.

"Big man's at the Allfather's side right now, as sure as the sun will set."

I hope so.

BEEEEPPEPPP [Translation: “I am sorry to interrupt, but if I could remark. He will be missed, mostly because he felt that he was not one that would be. That did not need to be.”] Connel nodded, approving, as he gave Buster a scratch behind the ear. The pup was noticing his heartache.

While he did not expect the prodding, he welcomed it. Absolutely. I was going to take her on a trip, just to spend time together for a couple of days, though she IS around “family”. Giving a knowing smirk, he rested a hand on his gear bag. I wanted to come here first because of that man standing on the statue.

Thurion Heavenshield • TAGS​