We Are All Guests Upon the Land [Coci/Théo & Kära/Mysa]

[Thrand Hearthfire]

"Better it is to die in battle with honour, than to live in shame because you did not defend your people."​

- From the Bjarnar saga Hítdælakappa​

​

Midvinter​

City of Tháinbroek​

A summoning had been issued to every corner of the wintry world, to every village and lonesome hut, that for the survival of all Valkyri all able-bodied Children of Midvinter make for the great city of Tháinbroek for the final stand against Death itself. A gathering of all the chieftains was to be held within the throne room, as ordered by the High King and Bringer of Dawn himself. From far and wide people journeyed for the capital, along with thousands upon thousands of carts carrying weapons and supplies to withstand any siege. None had traveled farther, perhaps, then the son of the King himself and his kin, thundering forth in ironclad chariots of fire able to put the mighty Helm to shame.

The voices outside only grew in loudness as more of the chieftains joined the gathering. These last precious moments before standing defiant against the ever-approaching storm of chaos the aging man wished to spend in peace, with nothing but his own thoughts for company. His eyes were closed shut, for he did not need them to see the face of his beloved. His lips uttered not a single word, for her name had long ago been imprinted upon his very soul. In his vision he sees her standing in the snow, and behind her a set of ancient doors swing open to reveal paradise. She beckons him forth--

"My King," a man rudely interrupted Thrand coupled with loud knocking, causing him to return to the world of the living. "The chieftains are all here, as are your sons and their kin." A heavy sigh escaped the large man as he got up on both feet. "Thank you, Rorik. I'll be right out..." His eyes snapped to the greatsword hung upon the wall, resting in its scabbard. "I'm going to need your strength just this one last time, old friend."

Clad in royal garments and the large fur of a great wolf wrapped across his shoulders, the High King exited his chambers and made for the great hall. The crown sits atop his head, and still he finds it highly uncomfortable to wear. The doors swung open and the throne room got quiet in an instant. Within men and women from across the realm turned their heads to watch the King take the center stage. Stood by either side of the throne were his two sons and their families, dutifully awaiting their patriarch.

A wide grin graced the old man's lips as his arms opened wide. "Come on, then - who's first?"

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

​

​

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVVXH6nBCaA​

​

​

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

It had been far too long since last Nina was able to set foot on Midvinter and see her beloved grandfather. When he finally stepped into the crowded hall, her eyes lit up and she was unable to stop smiling. She looked to her brother for but a moment before dashing forward into Thrand's open arms, beating both him and Mysa to the punch. "Grandpa," she let out inside his mind, an experience he had long since grown used to.

"Hello, my sweet Snowflake," Thrand laughed, completely devouring Nina's small frame with his huge arms. "How I've missed you..."

No doubt Théo would be next in line for hugs, so she made the embrace count as she then stepped aside for others to greet their grandfather. Her eyes turned to the many chieftains littered about the room, who all eventually resumed their respective conversations in the meantime. Now with Thrand here, she didn't feel quite so lost among the large individuals.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Ten minutes earlier...

Having received word from Thrand that the Vinterbound were marching on Tháinbroek in full force, Thurion and Coci had traveled there in all their haste aboard the Oathkeeper. Not taking a no for an answer, both Théo and Nina chose to join them in defending their homeworld against evil. While hesitant to bring both their children along, Thurion eventually buckled to their combined wishes. They had both undergone years of Jedi training, after all, with Théo having recently earned his knighthood at such a tender age. They knew how to take care of themselves by now.

Making for the great hall, the family of four had to duck and weave through the large number of warriors currently unloading the many wagons and working to reinforce the defences. His father's message did tell of the entirety of Midvinter joining forces for this final stand against the undead hordes, but he couldn't have imagined this many heavily armoured Valkyri warriors in one place. It was quite the sight to behold.

Upon finally entering the throne room, the chieftains had all gathered and now awaited their King. At the far side by the throne itself stood his brother alongside Kära and Mysa, and immediately the Heavenshields made for their location, again forced to dance around the burly men and women spread across the room. When people started taking notice of the four, they quickly made way for their Lord and Lady, who on more than one occasion had faced the enemies of the realm and emerged victorious.

Once they reached the throne by which Thyrian and the others stood waiting, Thurion smiled as he first greeted Mysa by way of a big hug, nearly lifting her off her feet. "My goodness, you've grown, little one!" he chuckled before he moved on to Kära, his dearest friend. No words were uttered between them, for they were not needed. Instead they simply embraced one another before the two brothers would exchange greetings.

They eyed each other for a moment, until Thurion placed a hand upon his elder's shoulder, prompting Thyrian to do the same. "Here we are, brother. Where our paths were always meant to take us."

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Thyrian Hearthfire]

Thyrian nodded softly. "Yes. Here we are..." What strange and tumultuous lives the two brothers had led up until now, separated by the vastness of the galaxy for decades only to be reunited what felt like lifetimes later. He'd been told the Force moves in mysterious ways, but this was ridiculous.

Upon greeting Coci Thyrian offered her a respectful bow, for she had earned it during their last conversation. A mother of two who would stop at nothing to protect her own, not unlike himself. "Sister," he spoke softly for her ears only. "Thank you for coming here. The old man will appreciate it."

Speaking of which, the crowd soon grew silent as the doors swung open to reveal the High King himself, in full royal regalia. Thyrian observed his father closely as he made his entrance, still worried there might be something wrong with him. The thought terrified him greatly, for what boy could ever imagine their father to be anything but invincible? Watching as Nina was the first to greet him, Thyrian turned to meet Mysa's gaze. "Go on, then," he said, hoping it would remove any doubts the girl would have about doing the same. His hand would then seek Kära's, to take comfort in the softness of her skin.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

They had returned to Midvinter as an entire family. To be here in defense of home, at least to him this is what it was. Years ago, mother and father had come to the call of Thrand to fight for the Seat, and for the Valkyri to place up the throne, the rightful king. For too many years Midvinter had been under the rule of a man with an iron fist and when the Dawnbringer had returned from exile, his parents were there. He had heard the stories of that day, as a child sitting on his father's lap taking in every word of the battle, like it was something out of an old legend, but it had been real.

He had heard the stories of the Silver Jedi, come to defend a village in the north from the walking dead, he had been here that time, but far to young to be able to help, he had stayed with his grandfather. When scouts would come and report on the battle to his grandfather, he watched and listened through a crack in the wall, tales of horror and death on both sides, it had been the stuff of nightmares. And that had frightened him, he had had fear for this family and the Jedi, the fear of a young child of loosing ones you love, and being alone.

He is older now, a young man in the making and yet that same fear lives in his heart. Only a fool would not feel such a thing before the battle. Fear.

As his grandfather entered the Grand Hall, a hush followed him and all in the grand room, the Valkyri stopped to give homage to their king. Theo had never seen his grandfather in full regalia, always when visiting he had simply been his grandfather not the king and so Theo stood letting the Mysa and Nina move forward first. He regarded him, all of him, Thrand is an impressive sight, standing high and proud and with a strength of power in his limbs that would put the fear of the Gods in any man. But Theo sees in his eyes, which are like his father's and his, a sense of longing. Although his eyes are alert, he is tired and as he looks upon them all, he is distant, as if looking through them to something in the beyond. It made the boy shiver.

Now, the time had come for him to approached his grandpapa, he did not run like he used too but stood before him a subject of king and to Midvinter, and Theo bowed. He looked up into his grandfather's face, a smile grew before he moved forward and wrapped his arms around the man he loves so much. Theo held on, not saying a word, but took hold of him for fear of letting go, there is still the child in the young man, probably always would be even in adulthood. Theo turns his face upward to find Thrand's eyes once more, "I love you Grandpapa", he said not caring who heard.

Reluctantly, Theo stood back from the embrace and wiped away the moisture from his eyes and rejoined his family standing alongside his sisters.

​

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

It was not until they had reached the platform on which Thyrian and his family stood, did Coci let go of Thurion's hand. In turn, they greeting them in their own way happy to see them once more. Gone was the trepidation of the first meeting, the event that had seen a change to the family none saw coming but with the passing of time, they had become one. A family strong and growing not just in numbers but with the 'threading' of life, bonds forged through blood and kinship regardless of the past.

She took a step forward toward Thyrian, closing the distance between them so she could speak to him only. "Brother", she returned the bow and respect. Strangely, the two had discovered a mutual respect for one another, they are similar in many ways, and this discovery only served to concrete a relationship that would see them come protectors over the family, all the family. "I would be nowhere else, but standing beside my beloved".

"And you and I are to fight once more .. side by side", she added with a hint of mirth. Coci stepped back to allow the children through to their grandfather as he entered the Hall. A smile forming widener on her face as she watched them all together, they have all grown so much, to fast, but no one can stop the march of time and she is proud of them all, her son and daughters.

Turning her gaze toward Kara, she studied her face and there is a sense of sadness there, in her eyes. There was no need for force powers to feel that the woman had experienced a severe of a bond only a woman knows. Kara is a mother, mother to Mysa even though she had not birthed her from her loins the connection is there regardless. And yet, she grieves. Coci understood immediately and moved to her side, there are simply no words for such a thing as this and so none was given. The only comfort she had to offer was that of understanding and touch. Her raised her hand behind Kara and sat it gently upon her shoulder for a moment, the two women are not close by any means, but the tires of family enough to warrant such as show of caring.

The time was drawing nearer, and soon they all would be departing to walk together toward the unknown destiny. Coci, once more, moved to stand by her husband's side her hand finding his in order to draw strength and love for the coming event that will write yet another chapter in their lives.

​

[member="Thyrian Ashborn"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

 

[Lief]

It was a strange sensation, to be stood among the Valkyri within their Great Hall. Kära could not say why, as Midvinter had been her home for many years now. Outside snow fell, as stark white as the hair of her people, lost snowflakes them all. There was a murmur throughout the room, yet for now no voice stood out above the rest. It was a simple clamour which brought the Hall to life.

To her left stood Mysa in all her glory. The young girl was becoming more akin to her every day, at least so far as looks were concerned. But her mannerisms? They still remained devout and dutiful to the Valkyri and their people. To the Heavenshields, to the Jedi. And that did not bother her. Kära wished each day that she could step back in time and rechoose her path after Syn took her in. But her past was set, only her future could change.

She was grateful that Mysa was truly given the opportunity to shine, to be herself.

A slightly proud smile graced her lips as she watched the girl, still clad in the same furs she had worn for as long as Kära could remember. Yet beneath it there was a pang of sorrow all the same, for what might have been.

Thrand's entrance roused her from her thoughts before they became too pressing, and her gaze followed him as he made his way into the room. Almost immediately young Nina bolted straight from her parents and toward the ageing man. Her sweet sister. This room was full of regrets, it seemed, all of Kära's skeletons in one echoey closet. Laid out for the world to see.

What she would have done if she had known Nina was in as much peril as Xavier had been. The brother she too had failed to protect, who had gone too far into the darkness despite her best efforts to protect him against it. At least Nina, like Mysa, had been spared such.

She had failed. As a sister, as a mother... As a friend.

Her eyes fell upon Thurion as he neared her and she wondered how it was that he could stand so much as the sight of her. As he embraced her, Kära felt her heart skip and a slight ache gripped her. I'm sorry for leaving. I'm sorry for becoming the one thing I promised I wouldn't be.

There was no judgement though, the embrace was warm. It spoke of a friendship which had traversed time. It took her back to those innumerable fountains, to the pebble in her pocket.

Thyrian's hand engulfed hers as Thurion stepped back, and the same thought drifted through her mind of him. Now that her memories were her own, two conflicting lives, she knew all that she had done. The hardships she had placed upon everyone she had come into contact with.

None so much as Thyrian.

She could have, should have, freed him the day she found him in Circe's lab. But she had been so young, alone, lost amidst a world she didn't fully comprehend. And he had been a rock. Did that excuse it?

Watching as Mysa tentatively made her way toward her idol, the High King of Midvinter, Kära let out a troubled sigh and swallowed her doubts. Things were better now, weren't they? No more Sith, no more Darkness... Just family, solidarity, serenity. Her daughter, her sister, her beloved and his family.

They were one, though they had lived vastly dissimilar lives.

Coci neared her, and Kära looked away in shame. The one person in the room who did not have good reason to overlook what had been her past. She was not her childhood friend, her lover, her sister, or her child. She was not a child, who saw the best in others. She was a Jedi Master. One who she and Thyrian had met on the battlefield. Who had seen what she had done.

Though truly, Kära's work that day had been in aid of the poor souls who Kaine would otherwise have enacted genocide against... A Jedi would not have seen such. She did not regret saving their lives, but she did regret which side of the battlefield she had stood upon.

The woman's hand was soothing, however. And for a moment, Kära felt as though she could breathe. The heavy cloud lifted if only for a second.

Perhaps everything would be okay.

Perhaps people could change.

Perhaps she could be better than everyone thought she was.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] [member="Thyrian Ashborn"]

 

[Lief]

Mysa stood silently to one side, close to her parents, examining the whole situation. Something was brewing within the very core of Midvinter, she could feel it, though she did not know what that might be. The air felt abuzz, alive, and rather uncomfortable if she was being honest.

Her hands shrank up into her sleeves, fingers curling into the matted fur lining.

She might have hidden had the doors not opened to reveal the face of a family she loved as much as her immediate. The Heavenshields. Those she regarded as a Mother, a Father, as siblings... Mysa was very lucky, she had two sets of parents. At least that was how she viewed it.

Smiling as they approached the vacant throne, Mysa stepped forward into the embrace of Thurion and was all but lifted off the ground. Nestling her face into the crook of his neck, she inhaled and then sighed. "I missed you" she whispered, for it had been quite some time since the pair had met in person.

As he moved on to her Papa, Mysa spotted Théo and could not help but beam a smile in his direction. She remained where she was, however. Neither of them were children anymore, it would not do for them to be rushing around through the Great Hall.

And besides, even if she had wanted to it was in that moment that the High King appeared and all eyes were on him. Nina broke into a sprint almost immediately, and Théo remained reserved and back. Mysa wanted to follow Nina's example, but she felt a twinge of apprehension. It took the gentle words of her Papa to rouse her into motion.

First she threw her arms around the Ashborn, before hurrying off toward her Grandpa.

Allowing Nina her time with him, it wasn't until her sister-cousin-auntie stepped back that Mysa took her place. She stared up at him for a second, before exhaling and wrapping her arms around him.

"Grandpa" she breathed, burying her face in his chest. He looked different today, more like he had when she first came to Midvinter - when he was not family, but instead her Guardian, her King.

Of course, Théo needed his turn... So Mysa took a few steps back to join Nina, and wondered if she ought to return to her parents. Today was not about the Grandkids, after all.

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

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

Rildonmark​

​

For many years now, Aerin had been home. After the Dawnbringer had been declared king, Midvinter had seen peace, for the most part. There had border clashes between the clans, nothing would ever stop that, but they had been minor by comparison to the battle. She had been there, the day of the return of the Vinterbound. She had joined the Silver Jedi as they rallied and moved north to face them, days of marching and riding in the worst weather that was blinding to the sight. There had been much death, so much loss and families torn apart, but they had stood victorious that day... But she knew. They had not seen the last of them.

Each year, after the foals were born several of them went missing. Initially she had thought it was the work of rival clans, poaching to boost their stock of horses and bring in a new bloodline. The horses of Rildonmark are legendary, known for their courage and strength on the field of battle, loyal to their masters and fight to the death, Rildonmark is also the home of the King's cavalry and Aerin, as Hand to the king takes care of them.

On bended knee she looks at the hoof prints in the snow, her hand reaches out her finger tips gently tracing the print, her eyes follow the tracks only to see them vanish, as if the horse had simply disappeared. "How many more?", she asked the steward by her side. "Five my Lady, this time three mares and two stallions". She stood up and turned to the north, there is a sense of a coming. "As soon as the thaw begins I want all the horses and riders of Rildonmark to the village .. it is time to get battle ready".

~~oOOo~~​

​

Two days before the meeting of the chieftains.

Gathered in the center of the Rildomark the cavalry stands in formation awaiting their leader. The horses shift with flaring nostrils as they sense a purpose on the air, behind the cavalry are many carts and Valkyri all laden with weapons and tents, supplies for the journey. Aerin rides to meet them, atop her war horse, a sword and shield strapped to the side of the saddle and behind the mare, another carrying her armour and other equipment. A thick fur covers her body dressed in full leather and as she approaches, she turns the head of the horse toward the north. They ride for Tháinbroek.

The two day journey ended with the cavalry direct east of the capital, they had sent up camp at the base of the mountain range that stood proud over Midvinter. A lone horse rode across the plain toward Tháinbroek, it's rider off to meet with the King and the Chieftains. Aerin would enter the gates of Tháinbroek and ride to the steps of the Grand Hall. The news she carried was dire indeed, for it was evident to her, that this time, the Vinterbound would have a cavalry of their own.

​

​

​

[member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Thrand Hearthfire]

Just as expected, the remainder of his grandchildren appeared before him, all three now so grown up on the verge of adulthood. He knew they had come to fight for their home and he would not stop them; they had just as much cause to do so as any child of Midvinter. "Let me look at you all," Thrand spoke as he lined the three of them up as if comparing them. He held out his large hand, and as all three placed their hands in his open palm the old man smiled wide. "You are all so precious to me, my children. Whatever happens after tomorrow, I will always be with you. You have made me a very happy man from the moment each of you stepped into my life, and I love you so much." Leaning forward he would then place a kiss upon their respective foreheads before finally moving things along.

"Alright, let us begin," his voice filled the hall, grabbing the undivided attention of all present. In the middle of the great hall stood a round table, upon which a large-scale map of the surrounding area lay. The table was large enough to give everyone enough room to witness the battle plan. Thurion and Thyrian both took position on either side of their father as he leaned over the table, palms settled against the edges of the map. "We don't have any time to dawdle. The undead are marching on Tháinbroek and will reach us within a day. Our masons and carpenters have all worked hard to reinforce the walls and ramparts, as well as built additional siege weaponry, but as we all know it will come down to old-fashioned Valkyri bravery and steel if we wish to make it through tomorrow. If there is one thing we've learned from the attack on Fafnersvik, it's that the Vinterbound do not waste time by laying siege; they assault, ferociously and recklessly."

Thrand then looked to his firstborn, sending a nod his way. "The Judgement sits in orbit over Midvinter, ready to offer support--"

"Forgive me, your grace, but what is this creature that stands beside you? He looks more akin to a beast than a man," one of the chieftains rudely interrupted, laughing at his own words. One might think Thyrian to be the one to retaliate, but before he could another had beaten him to the punch. "That is my brother you are speaking to," Thurion lashed out, staring the man down with gritted teeth before composing himself, eyes then turning to Thyrian. "And your future King." A prospect the Ashborn had realised during his stay on Midvinter, that upon his father's death he would be next in line to the throne. Deep down it terrified him, to hold such power over men. But he would not rule alone...

"Enough," Thrand interjected by raising a hand, putting a stop to further interruptions. "Thyrian is my firstborn, and the rightful heir. I know many of you would prefer his younger brother, but Thurion has responsiblities elsewhere that do not permit him to rule over others. It is my wish that... upon my eventual passing, you will all pledge your loyalty to Thyrian." A discussion for another time. "Continue, my son."

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

Throwing her left leg over the top of the mare's head, Aerin dismounted hitting the stone street hard. As she ran up the steps to the Grand Hall, the guards pushed open the double doors, they had recognised the King's Hand and allowed her immediate access. The light of day burst into the room along the cold and Aerin strode up to the round table looking for her Lord.

There had been some sort of dispute, Lord Heavenshield had voiced his displeasure about conjecture over the man standing along side his father. A man Aerin had never seen before, but when Thrand spoke, it was clear who he was, his son. And heir. "It seems the Chieftains have you dead already my King", she said and there was little mirth to it. Her eyes hardened as she looked over each and every one of them. So typical is this nonsense of men, especially Valkyri.

"My Lord forgive my interruption, the Riders of the Realm have arrived, we are camped to the east in the forest as you commanded. However .. I have news. For several years some of the war horse stock have been poached and I believe it is the work of the Vinterbound", whether through foul means or paid traitors. "I have no proof but, we must be prepared for the fact that the Viinterbound will have riders of their own. They would have had years to breed the cavalry and who knows what numbers they will have".

It had been at least a year since she had seen her friend the Dawnbringer, but this was not the time for happy reunions. Yet, she was pleased to see him even though looking a lot older.

​

[member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Thyrian Hearthfire]

This time, before he could even open his mouth, another decided to speak. A woman with the reddest of hair, no less, carrying ill tidings. Her words caused the others to look her way, including Thrand who seemed more happy to see his old friend than he was fearful of the words she uttered. "Glad you could join us, Lady Firebrand," the old man greeted her with a hint of mirth. "I thank you for bringing this information to us. This changes things somewhat, but I've yet to see horses being able to climb walls," he added, effectively putting the other chieftains at ease who laughed at the remark. Thrand then turned to his son once more, gesturing for him to continue.

"As I said, the Judgement will be able to offer support in the form of precision airstrikes. They'll have no defences against such firepower." What he didn't tell them was that they were also scanning the planet for strange energy readings in hopes of locating this Sith relic which is said to be the cause of all this. A shared look between him and Thurion let both know the state of things. Let these people believe the undead are servants of Velkar, or whatever his name is; religion had never been part of the Ashborn's character, after all. He only ever believed in what he could see, feel, and touch. Still, he realised the importance the gods held in the hearts and minds of the Valkyri, and he would not rob them of their beliefs.

[member="Mysa Snowstrider"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Meanwhile, Thurion listened carefully to each word spoken at the meeting while his arm made itself around Coci's waist and settled there, pulling her close for an embrace and placing a kiss upon her forehead. They both knew tomorrow would become another day filled with death and destruction and would gladly face any threat to their home, but that did not ease his fears. His gaze settled upon their children, stood side by side observing the battle plan. More than anything, he would fight for them. "I love you," he whispered past his wife's ear.

"Thurion," the King then spoke, stealing his attention away from her. "You'll be in command of the Western ramparts, here." A wooden figurine with his likeness was placed on the map. "Clans Bloodhound, Stonespear and Riverwood will be at your disposal," he explained, to which the three chieftains eyed their commander and bowed their heads. "Our swords are yours, Lord Heavenshield," one of the them confirmed. "The honour is mine," Thurion replied with a bow of his own.

"Thyrian, you'll command the Eastern flank, here." Another figurine was placed on the map. "Supporting clans will be Teeth-Gnasher, Longarm, Battleborne and Headhunter." Thyrian did not expect to have earned their respect just yet, but even so the chieftains saluted their commander all the same, albeit more out of loyalty to their king. "Clan Sabina will remain encamped in the woods until first light. I will lead the remainder of the clans directly, right in the middle." Thrand brandished a knife only to bury it in the table so deep it wouldn't move for any man or woman. "Tomorrow we will wipe out the Vinterbound once and for all, or die trying. And should we all die, I look forward to drinking with you in the mead halls of Beornskald!"

Loud cheering filled the throne room as the chieftains were dismissed and returned outside to resume preparations while the others remained. The patriarch then eagerly rubbed both hands together. "I hope you're all hungry."

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

She had kept silent throughout the meeting, but observant. It was interesting to watch the Valkyri once more, as they laid plans for the coming battle, so war hardened, something in their blood that cannot be denied, it was if they relished it, the chance to prove themselves to their gods and to their people. To find glory in death was something they longed for and this frightened her .. for in her husband is the same blood, in her son too and she had seen it. Thurion's blood rising to the call of the ancients.

And yet, as always, he removes her fears with a single kiss to the forehead as he draws her near. "Beyond this life, forever", she whispered ending their wedding vows to each other. As Thurion moved back to the table, she stood listening once more, Thrand issuing his plans and commands to chieftains and sons alike, and now too for her. For she will stand alongside her husband when the time comes to take up arms.

~~oOOo~~​

​

"Put a big enough hole in a wall and they can ride through it, my Lord", Aerin retorted to her friend. "But I will see to it that does not happen". She bowed once more and stood to listen to the battle plans with her arms folded across her chest. The plan was good enough, the sight of the war machines she had seen when the Riders had arrived, this time preparation was afforded them and there would be no need for snowballs she hoped.

Her brow arched when the firstborn son spoke, Aerin did not know what Class of ship he had position over Midvinter but from the words spoke, it would provide the fire power unseen by any Valkyri. Aerin has been off world on more then one occasion and had trained with Sith and Jedi and she knew ships. This allowed her to smile a little, they had an ace up their selves.

Once Thrand had finished and dismissed the clan leaders, Aerin took her leave as well. "Until the morrow my Lord", she said this time dropping protocol and wrapping her arms around her friend. Aerin will spend the eve in the camp, with her kin and clan, that is where a good leader should always be.

​

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

He wondered what was in his sisters mind's as they all stood back to let their parents attend the planning. There was no shortage of heightened emotions, from more then a few in the room, that much was clear to him, as it washed across Theo through the force. It would only mingle with his own. His hands found those of his sisters, and as he held them for reassurance, he was not sure for who needed it. He did as well, and he would not hide that from the girls, after all they are here to fight for their home and family.

It was interesting, the only one that was truly collected in the meeting was Grandpapa, he stood out as true leader and calm in the coming storm. There was a good reason he wore the crown, and that was evident this eve, clever, tactical and well planned, but moreover the leader of men and his people loved him and because of this love, he would die for them. They knew it, all of the clan leaders gathered here this eve, and because of this, they would die alongside their King.

"Promise me, you will be careful and come back to me safe", he said softly so only the minds of Nina and Mysa could hear. He turned to them both, "Promise me!", he insisted, as his hand squeezed theirs a little firmer. A childish thing to insist upon, possibly, but one born out of love for them both.

Once the meeting had been declared finished and the Chieftains dismissed, the sup was about the start. Theo let go of their hands and moved toward the round table with the map firmly pinned to the wood with the knife of his grandfather. While his parents and his families attention were not on him, he looked over the map noting the figurines and their positions. Mother and father to the west flank, Uncle Thyrian and the Shieldmaiden Firebrand to the east and Grandfather leading the charge from the front, Theo's hand slid across the surface of the map until it reached just before knife.

You will not be alone ...

​

​

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

While Nina did her best to follow the planning of the battle, much was admittedly lost to her; she was no warrior or strategist and felt more comfortable leaving these aspects to those more capable, like her father and grandfather. Instead, she felt her little brother's hand grab hold of hers. Her head turned his way and she offered him a warm smile. In his younger days such displays of caring were out of the question unless the two were alone. She always thought it cute, and she understood full well that is how boys work in their childhood days. It's silly, but endearing.

Nina said nothing, but rather leaned forward to place a tender kiss upon Théo's forehead. They were of the same height now despite her being several years older, and she had no doubts he would become as tall and handsome as father one day. "You worry too much," she smiled in hopes that it would ease his mind. Naturally she was scared too, but she would save her fears for the coming day. At this very moment, she was happy having her family in place for once.

[member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Thrand Hearthfire]

With the chieftains excused for the remainder of the evening, the royal family retired to the kitchens for a private feast. There were no servants around to cook their food or pour their drink, for Thrand had dismissed them all to be with their families the moment he heard about the Vinterbound marching for Tháinbroek. Some even volunteered to take up arms for a chance to defend their homes and, if fate demand it, meet their ancestors in Beornskald. Not often did servant folk get a chance to prove themselves as warriors, after all. What the old man came to find was that he'd missed cooking his own food and took great joy in being able to let loose without running the risk of embarrassing himself.

As such, the preparation of the food had been left to the King, having even baked the bread himself that very morning. The table in the middle of the room, usually reserved for kitchen staff and servants, was all set with wooden plates and cutlery along with empty cups that awaited filling, but what stole the show was a large rack of Älk fresh off the open fire and roasted to perfection, according to Thrand's tastes. "Please, sit, everyone," he joyously told them all before claiming a seat of his own. There was no throne for highborn lords to take into consideration. It was of a simply yet sturdy design, as was the Valkyri hallmark.

Thurion found a seat beside his father, offering his wife a seat next to him by taking her by the hand and placing a gentle kiss upon it. "My lady," he told her with a boyish grin. Nina meanwhile found a seat with her sister Mysa alongside Thyrian and Kära on the opposite end. "Théodred, my dear boy," Thrand beckoned the lad. "Come and sit beside me, child." Not that he had a choice - all other seats were taken. As soon as everyone was seated comfortably, Thrand was the first to dig in. "Come now, no use in standing on ceremony," he laughed.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

He turned to walk from the table as his family moved toward the kitchen of the Grand Hall. Theo knew the way, he knew every inch of his home by now after all he had been born within these very walls. As they all walked the corridor, he could already smell the roasting meat which only made his mouth water. Even with the coming of the dawn, and on which will see them all enter the arena of war, he was hungry. His energy had been spent due to worry and natural fear of what is to come, and now his body required sustainence.

He walked behind his family as each enter the door to the warm kitchen. The crackling of the hearth hissing and spitting as fat from the Alk dripped into the open flames, the flesh of the meat dark and brown bubbling just under the skin with its captured moisture. Theo gulped, now he could rip the leg off it in one go. As his family took their places, and his grand father summon him to his side, he was there in a shot and he noticed the prepared rack placed in the center of the table.

Theo looked at his parents for a sign to being, mother has impeccable manners and has drummed this into Theo's head from the day he was born. He had to laugh when his grandpapa lunged forward and ripped off some of the meat, but what surprised Theo the most was that next in line to do the same was .. mother. He waited not a moment longer and took his share of the fare.

​

[member="Thrand Dawnbringer"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

"My Lord", she bowed her head to her husband with jest, and as she did so, her long black braid fell around her shoulder to her chest. She allowed him to guide her to her place and when she sat, she returned his kiss upon his hand before letting go. The food look amazing and smelt delicious, her black eyes caught sight of her son, she knew that look on his face well enough now and she smiled. Once everyone was settled Thrand was the first to dive in and she followed next, sticking out her tongue at Theo.

"There is no point in wasting good food with worry", she said before taking a large ripping bit from the roasted flesh off the bone. The taste of the meat was glorious and a slight verbal appreciation of it escaped her lips. Caring not for the state of her fingers or cheeks for that matter, they are all soon covered in grease from the meat, she looked to her Thurion wondering what was taking him so long. Her eyes lit up as they fell on his beard, hoping to see that all mattered with the juices of meat, she could not help but giggle at her own thoughts.

"Care for a drink, anyone?", Coci reached for the mead and pour a larger portion into Thrand's awaiting tankard, before doing the same of those that wished it. Save the children of course. Although she suspected that Theo would have secretly tried some in the past. She started to hum a song she had heard many times on Midvinter, she looked at Thrand wondering if he recognised it and hoped if so, he would join in.

​

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Mysa Snowstrider"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEnTlG1Jbx0​

Once Thrand dug in, soon followed by Coci, everyone at the table did the same. Platters of vegetables, bread, and condiments of sorts were being passed around, making doubly sure none would be left wanting. Thurion followed his wife's example, going for the roast right off the bat not caring for greasy fingers. Not that there was much use, most of the time - there were no napkins on Midvinter, or at least not domestically. Having spent much of his life offworld, however, Thrand had long ago learned to appreciate being able to wipe himself using something other than his own sleeve. Besides, one of Sarah's pet peeves were bad table manners.

When Coci then began pouring drinks for those eligible, Thurion slowly raised his cup toward her. "Sometime's got to be the first," he said with a chuckle. Now was as good a time as any to at least find out what he'd been missing for all these years, no matter what will happen the next day. Once his cup had been filled he inspected its contents with scepticism. He then gazed across to his brother, who looked back at him with what could only be described as light amusement. "It won't bite," Thyrian simply spoke as he then proceeded to drink from his own cup of mead. While not a steady drinker, he wasn't opposed to the stronger stuff like his younger brother. Besides, it was hard to find something to drink that wasn't mead on Midvinter, save for water or Älk milk - neither of which he cared much for.

Taking his initial sip, Thurion recoiled at the taste of it. "Gah, it tastes just like it smells," he blurted out before going in for another sip, knowing full well it would entertain those around him. "Oh, by all the gods, it's awful," he let out briefly before taking a third sip. To his great joy he found that the cup now was only half-empty. Thrand laughed heartily and Nina giggled alongside Mysa at her father's antics. "Save me?" he whimpered to Thyrian who put his brother out of his misery by downing the remainder of his cup.

"My kingdom for a tall glass of blue milk," he laughed before getting up to find some on the countertop behind him, strategically placed there by someone.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Vi'dreya"]​