Private A Simple Return

[Arden Durane]

Midvinter
Heavenheim

Boots hit the ground and the young man breathed in the fresh air that was Midvinter and in particular the capital city Heavenheim, which used to be Fridheim. The city underwent a change as did the capital after Thainbroek was destroyed and the heavenshields ascended the throne. . Fifteen long years had passed since he had returned to Midvinter. The hybrid glanced around and a very familiar scent graced his nostrils and he couldn't help but smile. It wasn't anything foul,rancid or anything like that.

It was simply Midvinter, he was home. A grandest of smiles was on the face of Arden Durane as he left the transport that he had acquired to give him passage home. While he was with the Silvers for a long time, he still had not acquired his own ship or fighter. He tended to keep things simple and modest in his life. While a Jedi did require transport he usually just stuck with borrowing what the Silvers had to offer. He didn't feel the need for his own personal transport, at least not right now.

Deep down Arden had missed Midvinter very much, too much to be quite honest. This time away was needed for him, to grow as a person and especially to learn more about the galaxy. And quite a bit he did learn, it was not without difficulty though. The hybrids own nature would turn on him at times, as he tempted to go through things and problems alone. He soon found out that in order to succeed, it was always smart to ask for help. We all needed help every now and then, it took him quite a while to get into this groove. He wasn't the most popular within the Silvers as his nature towards outsiders was a thorn in his side at times, given the fact that he was somewhat acting as a hypocrite because their during the beginning he was an outsider. Luckily, he had a good friend within the order that was able to mentor him and essentially direct him how he one should and once again learn that we all need a little help.

He was his fathers son though, he was a stubborn man still yet strong,proud and brave. However, luckily for him, he had his mothers kindness,care for all things and love.

And the biggest things that he could've gained from his Mother,Father and from the Heavenshields, was his strong affinity to hope and loyalty.

Arden didn't hear about the events that had transpired from Midvinter until after it was over and Thurion Heavenshield Coci Heavenshield were crowned King and queen. He had missed the coronation not by choice, he would never had missed that without some other important task that kept him. But now that it was over, he took a leave from the Silvers for now, and had planned to devote his full loyalty and life to the Heavenshields. His father served as a member of Thurion's Lion Guard, and Arden hoped to do the same. He would keep the royal family and their family safe for as long as he could in this life.

"Arden!" An all too familiar voice caught his attention, and even then he could sense who it was just as he heard his name. His mother Liana Durane, he turned as he caught sight of her, she was already walking quickly towards him in the most graceful manner as possible. Cloaked and the like, as she normally was while in Thainbroek before its destruction. "Mother...." Arden said as he moved to greet her and the the young man wasted no time as he wrapped his arms around her and gave her a big hug. He missed her dearly, and he could tell more than anything through the force and through the hug that she did too.

"I've missed you so much."

"As I have with you, my son." The sweet and serene delicacy of her voice was always so calming to him, he noted that her eyes glistened lightly as the embrace broke. "You are never leaving us again." Liana joked lightly as her hand rested on Arden's cheek sweetly. "Oh my boy." She pulled him in for another hug, she missed him terribly. The embrace broke again and she stepped aside and he could see his father standing a few feet away from him.

Astor being a full blooded Valkryi stood taller than them both, and he had much more physical size than either him or his mother. Yet he knew behind that stubborn,brave, proud individual was a father and husband, and he couldn't hide that from either. Astor moved forward and placed a single hand on his sons shoulder, and in unison Arden did the same to his shoulder. "It's good to see you boy."

Arden gave his father's shoulder a small shake before he replied "You too, Father." The pair stared at each other for a second or two before a smile and then a hearty chuckle escaped them both and they embraced in a strong hug. Liana stood off to the side with a hand over her mouth trying to hide her laugh. Thinking that both her son and husband were equally foolish and stubborn when it came to expressing their feelings.

"The silvers have done a good job with you. Granted we had some hand in that too. Also, Thurion is expecting you."

"Is he?" Arden said with a small raised brow, and surprise in his eyes. "I hope he isn't upset with me for not coming sooner."

Astor patted his son on the shoulder. "Only time will tell." He winked at his son as the Astor placed an arm around both his wife and son as the Durane's walked together, reunited for the first time in fifteen years.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

"Did you hear, Thyrian?" He looked up into his brother's face, forever preserved through the masterful craftmanship of his countrymen. There he was, Thyrian the Unifier, the Phoenix King, reunited with their beloved father in statuesque splendour. Two bronze statues now towered over the town square; both of them High Kings, both of them Fathers of the Realm.

He could only hope to be worthy of joining them in eternity after his own passing.

"Your nephew is expecting another child in a few months. It's already been confirmed to be a boy." He smiled to himself. "They're naming him after you, you know; Thyri. Like what I used to call you when we were little, remember?" That seemed so long ago now, the two brothers struggling to survive on the streets each day until they one day were fated to be parted, to walk different paths. Only to lead back to each other again, decades later.

The sound of approaching footsteps and rustling chainmail caught his ear, and the King gently glanced over his shoulder to receive the guardsman's message. "Your Grace," the burly man bowed his head. "He's here." A slight nod from the King, and the man returned to his duties.

"Forgive me," he returned to his brother and father. "I shall have to cut our time short this day. I'll trust you to not hold it against me."

Thurion stepped up to the pair of statues and raised his hand to his lips, then placed his hand upon their feet. "Take care of Father for me?"

Adjusting his fur cloak draped over his shoulders, Thurion turned away from his fallen predecessors and made for the Main Gate to hopefully intercept the young man returning after 15 years of training with the Silver Jedi Order. Arden Durane , a most promising talent whose father already served with his household guard, now turned royal guard. He was only a kid when Thurion first sensed he was Force-sensitive, and following a brief period of training under him personally, he sent the youth to the Silver Rest for further studies. This was not regular procedure, but Thurion sensed great things for Arden and thus felt he would benefit from delving deeper into his Jedi training.

"Arden," the King called out with a wide grin as he laid eyes on the young man in the company of his parents. "You're back! Finally, you've returned!" He did not stop to wait for the family to bow to him, but rather went straight up to Arden and embraced him as if he were a son of his own.

"Let me have a look at you," he stood back to inspect his more mature appearance and height. "They've certainly been feeding you well over there," he placed his hands on his shoulders, wider and sturdier than they were 15 years past. "It's good to have you back, son!"

"Astor, Liana," he looked to the proud parents and gave each a nod of his head.

"Come, let us share a drink in my hall and get out of the cold!"

 

[Arden Durane]

He felt the reassuring hand of his parents hand on either side of his shoulder as the neared the main gate. Arden couldn't help but feel a small sense of nervousness as he was on his way to meet his most trusted mentor who was now King. Arden was blessed to be born into such a great family, his mother and father were amazing in their own right. Midvinter in itself was a wonderful place, filled with a deep history and lore. The heavenshields were a deep part of that, Arden had been fascinated by it since he was a young boy.

Arden could tell Thurion Heavenshield apart from anyone in a crowd. He had that commanding presence that was endearing and righteous.

"Your grace." Arden said as he neared the King of Midvinter and before he could lower to a knee he was pulled in for a hug. Arden laughed and he returned the hug to the king. "Finally." The hybrid said as he glanced back to his father and mother for a brief second whom were beaming with pride.

"It's been an adventure without a doubt. It's so good to be home." Arden said with a big smile and as Thurion mentioned getting drinks in the great hall. Despite the happy reunion, Arden couldn't help but feel a a slight sense of regret.

"Your grace."
"Your grace."

His parents said in unison as they bowed before the high king. Astor had been long loyal to the High King, and the way he took to his son made the father that much more happy. Liana pulled the hood back that had covered her appearance somewhat. She took in a deep breath as she placed her hands on Arden's shoulders and gave a small squeeze.

"I made it a point to inform him that he's not leaving for a good while." Liana mused slightly with a smile towards the king as they all walked.

Arden let out a hearty chuckle as he looked over to his mother and she winked at him. The young man cleared his throat as he felt he finally had to get something off of his chest to the King. He knew he should've been here sooner, he hoped that Thurion wouldn't hold it against him too much.

"Your grace, Thurion....I apologize that I wasn't here sooner. Not just for the coronation for you and Coci, but for what happened before. You have my deepest condolences."

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

"I made it a point to inform him that he's not leaving for a good while."

"I should hope so," the King added as he looked the young man over. He had grand plans for Arden after all, and it would not do for him to suddenly vanish off into space again. But that was business for a later time.

As Arden then offered his apologies for not being around for the Great War, Thurion's gaze dipped faintly and his expression hardened. They had been difficult times, but he could only count his blesses that all his children and grandchildren made it through unharmed.

"No need to make excuses for what you can't control, my boy," he met his gaze with sadness behind his eyes. "We can't be everywhere at once." He stepped aside and put his arm around Arden's shoulders, walking him up main street towards the center of town where his hall was located.

"I'm afraid the outcome would have played out very much the same had you been present. King Thyrian's sacrifice was inevitable, else you would no longer have a home to return to." Upon rounding the corner the city opened up into the marketplace, a vast square with countless merchant stalls selling various wares and goods. It was the beating heart of Heavenheim, and now also all of Valkyri society following the fall of Tháinbroek. Traders and pilgrims journeyed far and wide to visit by either land or sea.

"He has gone to rejoin our father," he motioned towards where once there was one bronze statue presiding over the large meeting place. Now there were two. "As much as his untimely passing hurt, I gives me comfort knowing he's finally at peace."

Thurion offered Arden the opportunity to greet the former kings, father and son, in all their splendour.

Arden Durane ​

 

[Arden Durane]

"Sometimes I wish we could." Arden said in a soft and somber expression when Thurion spoke. But deep in the young mans heart he knew the King was correct. They weren't all powerful, Arden was fully aware of this. The sort of thinking could be dangerous, not for oneself but for those that they cared about. They rounded the corner square and before them was a large amount of booths and stalls of individuals selling all sorts of things.

Seeing this brought a big smile to him. It was nice seeing this, seeing the people of Midvinter far and wide. They were simply....living. Working together after everything that had happened to restore what was lost.

Thurion spoke of King Thyrian and his sacrifice that essentially saved Midvinter.

"Peace." Arden repeated as he glanced back to his parents and gave them a small nod. The hybrid looked upon the two bronze statues and he just stared at the two for the longest time. Their spirits would always be here, they would always be with them. In particular always with Thurion and his family. Arden took a few steps forward and took a knee before them as he closed his eyes and paid a silent word and prayer towards them.

Arden opened his eyes as he stood up and took a few steps back.

"It's a sight to behold your grace. They will never be forgotten." The young man said as he glanced towards the King and gave a respectful nod in his direction.

Thurion Heavenshield

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

"No, they will not," he cast a longing look and sighed.

Then with a firm hand on Arden's shoulder he led him onwards to the King's Hall; a place for great feasts and receiving dignitaries alike. It was all at once throne room, mead hall, and general meeting place. Upon his ascension, Thurion did not seek to build another Great Hall of Tháinbroek. He'd been a lord of this city all throughout his brother's rule, and saw no reason to further elevate himself above those he's sworn to protect.

Even his throne was not very grand, but rather just a wooden armchair draped in a few animal skins. Simple and practical, much like its occupant.

"Astor, Liana. I would like the two of you to accompany your son inside. What I wish to discuss concerns all three of you." He held the door for the family of three to enter his hall, to be met by the warmth of the fire pit running the length of the room down the center, flanked by long tables on either side. At the far end was the small platform upon which the two thrones stood, with the banner of House Heavenshield proudly displayed upon the wall behind.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable," he motioned towards one of the tables. Rather than assume his throne, Thurion instead sat down with them at the table, glad to be out of the cold.

On the table was a tray of bread, fruits, and other such snacks in case they were feeling peckish.

"Now Arden, I'd like to make you an offer," he began while reaching for a piece of fruit. "A job, if you will."

"As I'm sure your father has already informed you, Lord Commander Raugar was tragically killed in action in the battle to retake Tháinbroek. One of the few members of the Lionguard who lost their lives that day." He rubbed the piece of fruit against his tunic, polishing it.

"I would like you to fill his shoes, so to speak," he uttered his request very casually, right before taking a bite out of the fruit.

Arden Durane ​

 

[Arden Durane]

The Hybrid took a long deep breath as he gazed upon the Kings Hall. There was truly something amazing and mysterious about Midvinter that always left Arden mesmerized. The young man knew that ever since he could first see, like fully see and understand the world around him that this world he was born into was something that he would cherish for all time. He often felt that was the pride and duty that had called to him ever since he was first accepted into the Heavenshields graces. It made him swell with joy that he was back here, he was where he belonged.

"Of course your grace." Astor spoke as he beckoned Liana inside first then Arden and finally he followed suit. Astor always knew that his son was destined for big things, and he was more than sure that he would rise to meet those things head on and no doubt in his mind that he would be victorious in his path. Astor glanced to Liana as he knew that she loved her so greater than anything else in this world. He knew that she had her reserves, while he knew her mind on this matter. Arden was still after all, in her mind anyway. Her baby boy and every day he was away was painful for her.

Astor smirked slightly as he took a seat as he exchanged a small glance with Liana. She had changed somewhat, since they had Arden. When he first met her she was incredible agile warrior,strong and incredibly arrogant, much like he was in his youth. And he knew she was still all of those things. However, one thing did change and that was the fact that she became a mother.

"Thank you, your grace." Liana spoke softly as she looked upon the King. "I trust the Queen is doing well." She added with a smile. Liana was quite fond of Coci, despite their lack of communication. Liana tended to keep to herself for the most part, given her nature. Liana glanced to the array of fruit before them and took one, she took a small bite before glancing to Arden. She placed a hand on his shoulder giving a small squeeze. "Get some food in you son, I'm sure you must be hungry."

Arden chuckled slightly and nodded his head. "I am actually. The meal provided on the way here wasn't the greatest." Arden smiled towards Liana and took a piece of fruit and took a bit of it and it was then that the King spoke of his intention and plan. Arden was curious what it was that he needed to speak to them about, and when he found out what it was it took Arden by surprise.

"A job?" Arden inquired as he set the rest of the fruit down on the small table in front of him. His mind completely on what could potentially be coming next. He took a small glance towards his father and mother before looking back to Thurion and hearing the rest of what he was offering. Arden's eyes widened just slightly as he cleared his throat and took a deep breath. He was informed of the Lord Commanders death prior to his arrival but this was the last thing he could've expected.

"Your grace. You know my loyalty to your family is of the highest regard. And if by my life or death I can protect you and your family, I will. This is a very generous offer. I must say though, forgive my questioning, but why me?" Arden spoke as he glanced between them again. Arden could think of a bunch of reasons as to why he wasn't the person for the job. The main one being that he was gone for the last ten plus years. There was his father, and he wondered if he had been offered the position and simply turned it down.

Despite all of this, Arden knew that deep down he would do the job to the best of his ability. He wasn't one to shy away from a challenge, he just simply for his own peace of mind needed to know why he was selected.

"Your grace, I will do as you command. I would follow you and your family to the end." Arden said with a more certain declaration in his voice.

Thurion Heavenshield

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Thurion chuckled, expecting it to come as a bit of a shock to the young man.

"Arden, you are a young man in your prime, with a long promising career ahead of you. You are the only member of the Lionguard to have visited other worlds and studied with an order of Jedi, and the only to have reached the rank of Jedi Master in your own right. And, most importantly, you are a good person with strong moral convictions."

He took another bite of his green apple, savouring the sweet juices.

"I'd say the choice is pretty obvious."

Then suddenly he stood up, motioning for the others to stay seated. His hand reached towards his throne and the sheathed sword resting at its side which proceeded to float across the room into the palm of his hand.

"Kneel, Arden of the Durane Clan."

The pristine blade of shimmering steel flashed as it left its sheathe, seemingly surrounded by a bright aura as the King held it. It was the sword called Anarion in the elven tongue, used to slay the Crone Goddess in the Great War.

The King stood there, inspecting the runes along the fuller of the blade, before fixing his eyes on the young man before him.

"By the Grace of the Gods, I name thee Lord Commander Arden Durane of the Lionguard, the second to ever bear that title. The hearth of House Heavenshield shall ever be yours to share." The tip of the sword touched his right shoulder, then his left, before finishing atop his head.

Thurion then proceeded to sheathe his sword and offer a hand to lift him to his feet.

"May the Gods smile upon you, my friend. Rise, now, as an honoured lord of this realm."

 

[Arden Durane]

Arden stared at the High King as he spoke of his reasons for why he was to be chosen. He couldn't help be feel strong sense of pride, but more than that. The biggest thing that mattered to him, was that Thurion Heavenshield trusted him this much to place him in such a role. And it mean everything to the Hybrid. The young man glanced back towards his parents as Astor gave his son a small wink and his mother was beaming. She was incredibly proud of him, as was Astor.

The young man cleared his throat as he took a knee as Thurion instructed. He glanced forward as the sword touched his right shoulder then left and then atop his head as he glanced up towards the king in recognition as he then bowed his head.

Liana gave Astor's hand a small squeeze as she glanced over to him, a single tear rolling down her cheek. She knew that her son was no longer a boy, he hadn't been for a long time. However, he was still forever her little boy her eyes. That was something that would never change. She was incredibly proud of him and she knew Astor felt a great swell of pride that his son had taken the mantle of Lord Commander.

Arden rose with a big smile on his face. "And for as long as the Gods allow me to, I will defend your family and Midvinter till my last breath."