We Are the Children of the Sun [Open to Dawnguard]

[Ylva Heavenshield]

Having reached the City Center and [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] dismounting to greet his family, Ylva Solveig decided for the time being to remain upon Bjomolf. The City was a strange place for such a beast, even upon the likes of Midvinter where all manner of creatures and peoples seemed to defy the beliefs of what could be considered typical society beyond the world she had come to grow so fond of. Leaning forward to scratch the top of Bjomolf's head, she did so somewhat roughly in order to get through his thick fur and actually sooth the Ice Wolf's stand-offish regard towards the others around them.

She herself felt much like Bjomolf likely did. The wilds were where her heart belonged most, if not with [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] yet she hadn't yet noticed him and for the time being chose to focus on the only thing she did know and care for, the beast for which acted as a companion and guardian over her life, a relationship with the great ursine wolf that she could not explain in words with any due credit.

"The redhead tells me she's with you..."​

​

There were few peoples in the area that held a fire to their hair the likes of hers and to the Kings words, Ylva looked up with no subtle hint of defiance and spoke out to him as if he were just another man among them; "Excuse me?" she called to him, though there too came a sense of favor for he had included her within his legion and she had been fortunate of such that Ylva might come to know what had been the cause of those innocent peoples deaths. It was however only now that her eyes landed upon Théodred and her mouth opened to further speak yet the wind caught in her lungs and she fell speechless a moment.

She was glad to see him, his was a face that fastened the pace of her heart, among so many other blank expressions that meant little to nothing to her. Sweeping one leg over the top of Bjomolf and sliding down from his side, even the Ice Wolf seemed to recognize him and give a deep and dark bark at the man as Ylva moved to meet with him. She wasn't the type however to go leaping into any man's arms, nor did she dash at him like some maiden in despair or need of saving. Instead she gave him a shove against his chest and something of a cocky smirk, meeting her gaze with those ice blue eyes of hers; "Typical that I'd find you in the middle of all of this..." She goaded him, almost accusingly though there was pleasure behind the tone of her voice, reaching for him once more and this time taking him by the scruff of his collar and pulling him into her, her head lifting that her lips would find and meet with his. That she might embrace him and remind him what he had been missing since they had been apart.

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Velkar Odiirson"] | [member="Teign Hœgr"]​

[member="Dawnbringer"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Kahne Porte"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

Well this was very troublesome indeed. A Thyrian greeted them all too briefly which was understandable given what the circumstances were, the fact was revealed that he did not have any news of this threat either. So it was most likely not Sith, they generally don't hide their presence on a grand scale but rather much prefer to announce their arrival with nothing but disdain and death, at least that was the way of them in the more recent past. The Sith had not changed much since their last visit to Midvinter, not according to the reports of their outward reach into the galaxy once more. The Sith have no finesse this threat was more refined and calculated.

What was the war council going to discuss? it is difficult to plan a counter attack or defenses against something you have no knowledge of. Maybe one of the heads of the clans had more to say on this. Maybe a scouting party had seen something to enlighten them all.

These were the thoughts on her mind as she entered the Grand Hall with Thurion and already the warmth of the hearths soothed her body from the cold. The light changed, with the soft glow of the central hearth spilling radiance over the faces of the Valkyri that had already entered, awaiting their king and leaders of the clans to begin proceedings. They were looking for answers too, they turned to Thurion and Coci searching for them in their gaze, but they would find nothing at this point. The Heavenshield name had been firmly etched in the tales of war passed on Midvinter, the pair had cemented their right to be here well before the Hearthfire's had come and many still looked to them both with a sense of awe. Others knew that if the king had called for his brother and sister, this was dire indeed.

Coci tried to reassure them all with a warm smile and her gesture of respect to the leaders of the clan in the form of a bow, seemed to ease them a little. There were faces old, that she knew and had stood beside in battle in the past, some that had rose to the ranks of their forefathers, yet to become friends, in that regard the Guard was changing with the youngers, new face, new attitudes, new ideas.. and this was exciting to the prospects of Midvinter.

There was always hope.. this was something she always believed. She squeezed Thurion's hand gently as she turned to look at him, looking for the face that had been with her for as long as she could remember, the Gods know how many times they had done this and yet another test was to come for them but no matter what she would always be by his side. "I love you Thurion, I always will".

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

"Uncle", was all that was returned to the King upon their greeting. But when Thyrian spoke of a redhead, Théo searched for her through the growing crowd that began to gather within the walls of the city. Many warriors and Shieldmaidens had come to the call, the banners of many clans positioned in the streets which followed their leaders toward the Hall. The people of Thainbroek thronging to see what was going on, and look for known faces in the crowd, of friends they had not seen in a long time, traders where coming to take advantage of this as well, the word had gotten out and many were still on their way with cart loads of food and supplies if they were needed, and if not, they would be sold in the markets.

The presences of someone he knew, or rather met a long time ago when a child back on Voss came to him through the force. Although he did not know the man well, he had been someone Théo looked up to as a young Jedi. Master [member="Audren Sykes"]. His white hair unmistakable in the crowd, he always held his stance with a strong form of regal countenance whether he was of that birth right or not, it spoke of a quality within the Jedi. He would greet the Jedi master soon.

But now a force to be reckoned with strode toward him.

For a few wonderful moments, the whole events that surrounded the occasion of them all coming together, had been forgot as Théo eyes finally found the sight of his love coming toward him. A smile started to creep on his lips, Bjormolf exhibited more emotional pleasure at the sight of him than his beloved Ylva, this caused him to chuckle as she shoved him in the chest. "Where else would I be?", he flung open his arms as if to say 'is it not obvious?'. Than she man-handled him into an embrace, which he would never refuse, and she kissed him hard, which Théo returned and releasing his heart to her.

It was not until their embrace ended did he look upon her face, and into her blue eyes did his demeanour change back to the current reality of their circumstances. "I was worried you where caught out there somewhere. Something is wrong, something is coming for us all and... we are about to find out what. Or .. ", well that was to be determine and hopefully with the arrival of his uncle, more light would be shed on this.

"How did you end up in the company of my uncle and Master Sykes over there", he nodded in Audren's direction. "What happened?".

[member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] ​

 

[Ióunn Ar-Olwa]

Waiting for her parents to return home became intolerable, she could not fathom what they were doing all this time, but if she felt the tremour within the heart of Midvinter, so too her parents would have, far more stronger than she. Iòunn passed the floor, her hands unable to keep still with lack of something for them to do, and with each passing moment she worried further and to the point where she would have to do something herself. She would go look for them but before that something else plagued her mind. Where had this horrid event happened? This cry of souls that had been taken from Midvinter in such as hideous way, and her mind turned to Thrand and his family.

Were they involved in all this? was he? She could not bear not knowing a moment longer, so she raced outside through the village until reaching the outskirts of her village. Iòunn turned her gaze to the skies, her elven eyes searching for a lone avian that flew over the forest of Averlorn. Nothing as yet he was probably asleep within a nook in a tree, so she let out a thrill whistle so piercing to the ears that the sound even caused her own to dart forward.

But her call was answered, a matching cry returned to her before the sight of her Gaelin appeared cutting through the high branches of the forest, wings spanned in a glide swooping low and his aim, her outstretched arm on which Gaelin landed and rotated his head giving her sleepy eyes. "I am sorry Gaelin to have awoke you, but I need you to take a message to someone".

Iòunn quickly attached a small rolled up note to his leg with a thin piece of string and once secured, she whispered to him in her native tongue, her power granted to her from the Frostvatn, aided the messenger in his direction, the image of the boy with the emerald green eyes impressed on Gaelin's mind. "Go now, fly swift and true", she raised her arm from the owl to take flight. She stood to watch him vanish beyond the line of the tree tops headed toward Thainbroek.

The note would read.

Thrand, A'maelamin
amin dela ten' lle
'ksh- vana i' palurin

Iòunn

[member="Thrand Hearthfire"]

 

[Thyrian Hearthfire]

The Great Hall

Once the High King and his queen entered the throne room, shorly after Thurion and [member="Coci Heavenshield"] had done so, all those gathered promptly rose from their seats and bowed their heads. Thyrian returned the bow with the stoicism he was known for, showing little to no hint as to what he was thinking. "My friends," he greeted them, offering the faintest of smiles. "I wish we could meet like this on more joyful occasions." As he spoke he and Kära approached the formation of tables and took their seats, soon followed by the others. "We begin immediately."

What followed was a moment of silence as Thyrian pondered how to describe the atrocities he'd witnessed at Daal. "There has been... an attack on one of our villages, here in the Crownlands," he began, slowly standing back up, palms pressed to the table. "Small speck you would be hard-pressed to find on a map. It went by the name of Daal; I say went, because nothing remains of the settlement. Nor its inhabitants..." his gaze lowered, then looked to his queen for support never denied to him. Some of the chieftains were already fuming with rage, while others recoiled at their liege's choice of words.

"The entire village, along with anyone living there, had been put to the torch and their bodies defiled. Mutilated, some of them beyond recognition." His otherwise commanding voice trembled at those last few words when recalling the gruesome sight. "Men. Women. And children..." This caused an uproar from his audience as they proceeded to slam their fists into the table and shout their curses at whoever was to blame. A few less friendly even accused the Beorni or the Aelvar. Rising from his seat, Thurion's voice roared over all others. "Silence!" The brothers looked at each other. "Go on, Thyrian."

"This was not an act of anyone native to Midvinter. Our scouts could not locate any traces leading in or out of the village, and if the attackers suffered losses they made damn-well sure there were no remains left by the time we showed up. Nor was it the Sith; none of us here have neither seen or sensed their presence since the day they left with their tails between their legs." His comment got a few chuckles out of them. "Which leaves us with only one possibility: We are facing a completely new threat, the likes of which this world has never seen." More muttering from the chieftains, yet one spoke up above the rest.

"Your Grace, how do we fight an enemy able to appear and disappear at will?" That was the question, wasn't it? Then again, there was no telling just who or what this enemy is, let alone their agenda against their kind.

Thyrian sighed. "I do not know," came his simple reply, for he truly did not have an answer at this time. "But I do know," he continued, "that this cannot stand. I will not allow another such incident; my conscience could not bear it." With that the king slumped back in his seat, showing signs of weariness as he sought Kära's hand with his.

[member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Audren Sykes"]​

 

[Lief]

Kära did not deny her love the embrace sought for even a second. The moment he walked through the door into the Great Hall she had wrapped him in her embrace and breathed in his scent, grateful that he was alive and well above all else.

"I missed you, my love," she whispered, for his ear only, and when she pulled back she watched as men and women poured in toward the Throne Room. Her gaze fell to Coci and Thurion, offering them both a respectful, loving inclination of her head by way of brief greeting, it was always so lovely to see them back in Thainbroek though the circumstances were not even remotely ideal from the look on their faces.

By the side of her beloved King and Husband she entered the hearth filled hall and took her seat beside his own at the table. Nobody had the spot as 'head', nobody sat above another, just as it ought to have been.

She remained silent throughout, for what could she bring to the table being that she had been so busy here with Thora and Thalin? Kära had not seen what they had, nor had she any wish to do so. But she knew that war was coming to their land all over again, and everybody - including she - would have to fight to secure their future.

Something she was more than willing to do, if it ensured the safety of her babies and their people.

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

 

[Micah tol Powl]

How I stopped worrying and learned to love the Force Stealth.

No sooner had [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] taken his hand off Boo's shoulder than the young Pantoran had slipped into the shadows. It was a survival tactic frequently employed when at risk of a Coci or [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] hug.

Plus, this was a major city, right? So there was bound to be some food vendors around...

...when the youngling slipped back, he had a large, soft pretzel in hand.

He had no idea who most of these people were. And there was some chick being really handsy on the parental merchandise. Munching on the pretzel, the blue-skinned youth just sort of appeared standing next to [member="Audren Sykes"]. "Who's that 'sposed to be?" the boy asked pointedly, tearing off a piece of pretzel and shoveling it into his mouth.

[member="Ylva Solveig"]​

 

[Ylva Heavenshield]

"It's a long story...-You'll hear about it soon enough but..." Ylva Solveig paused a moment to glance away from [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] a moment, catching the look of one much younger boy for whom she did not recognize, her thoughts however preoccupying her mind from thinking anything of [member="Boo Heavenshield"]'s presence, he being what looked like a child among a place of warriors and war councilman; "There was an attack on a village further east of here. I had been hunting for them on my way back home. They were wiped out within a matter of days since my leave of them..." She shook her head, turning back to look up at Théodred with a look that would no doubt worry him. Very few times in her life had she shown any real vulnerability to those around her, what Théodred would see in her now however would be a hint of fear overshadowing a great deal of concern for the things she had been exposed to before reuniting with him.

Ylva felt far better suited to Théodred's company now mind you, as opposed to the King [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] and his men, though they had treated her well, she was not one of his legionnaires nor held much of a heart for authority types. In time of course, the Heavenshields and by extension the house hearthfire would grow on her, no doubt, yet in such a time now, there were far more important matters to be concerned about. Her words to her lover had been offered in quiet, barely more than a whisper and yet it seemed Thyrian would soon be addressing them all as the banners were called fourth and the great hall would commence into what seemed more the likes of a meeting of highborn lords presiding over their lands. Frankly, had she not seen the gruesome sight of death further back in Daal, she might have offered something of a retort under her breath for how such sights typically bothered her, yet again, priorities were to be considered for the lives that had been lost and those that might still give themselves up in the name of Midvinter's defense.

"Your Grace, how do we fight an enemy able to appear and disappear at will?"

It was a fair question she supposed though the answer was straight forward, providing it could be achieved. They needed to know more, a hunt one might say, for answers. No matter how tall these walls stood, it would do no good for the people living out among the wilds in villages with far less protection; those that had a hard enough time fending off the cold let alone whatever marauders had plagued the people of Daal. Théodred had mentioned [member="Audren Sykes"], and it was now that Ylva turned to look to the man with the pointed ears, not for her partners question but for his resemblance to the Aelvar folk whom had made the wilds their own, [member="Ióunn Wuduælfen"] had informed Ylva of this much some weeks ago where they had first met.

Her gaze shiffted, head lowering marginally. It wasn't an easily noticeable movement yet her expression changed to one of distant thought and determination. The answers that they sought weren't to be found here but out roaming the lands and doing so prepared. It was in this, that she had already decided to take upon herself. She merely required a direction to start off in.

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Velkar Odiirson"] | [member="Teign Hœgr"]​

[member="Dawnbringer"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Kahne Porte"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"]​

 

[Audren Sykes]

There had been no mounts to spare and no time to find any that might have escaped the slaughter. And given Ylva's general suspicion - she'd drawn her bow on the king after all - he didn't expect her to agree if he asked to ride the on the wolf with her. Besides which, that looked like it would be uncomfortable for all involved. The saddle wasn't big enough. Fortunately with the aid of the Force he'd been able to move quickly enough to keep up with the column.

The amount of warriors massing around Tháinbroek was impressive. It was a full-scale mobilization, the size of which he hadn't yet seen here on Midvinter and was rarely involved with elsewhere. The city was crowded...something he'd only seen suggested even with the presence of a Silver Jedi army. Such a group was never truly quiet, but this one was boisterous: they loudly cheered the king and entourage as they passed by. A display of loyalty or just warriors itching for a fight? The cheering continued as they approached the city, but it wasn't enough of a distraction to keep him from seeing the vessel parked outside. Someone else was here.

The Sephi came very close to putting his head in his hands when he saw Thurion and Thyrian together. He should have seen the resemblance, heard the similar phonemes of their given names. It was odd that they had different clan names however, so he wasn't all too hard on himself. With the similarities, he would wager the relationship was brotherly, which implied there might be other siblings as well. He definitely had more family: Théo was present, and very likely the one who'd brought the ship.

It was obvious to Audren that he should not be involved with the war council. Those heading inside were chiefs and other members of importance, and he was neither to these people. On top of that, he'd been in the bush for a few days and certainly wasn't the cleanest he'd ever been. Then again, biochemistry was weird. Even to baseline humans, if two people smelled the same third person the scent could elicit different reactions. Throw nonhumans into the mix and 'normal' just went out the window. For all he knew this would make his scent more agreeable to the Valkyri. This, however, was not the time for experimentation.

Besides, he needed some supplies. If they were going to right to war, he needed something to ride. It would also be useful to have food and a good night's sleep before they left, but those were not essential. The thought that it might actually be more essential crossed his mind as a child apparently manifested next to him. The smell of the pretzel made the Master's stomach grumble quietly; a stray thought quieted that. Had his mind not been wandering, the kid would never have been able to sneak up on him. Tentatively, he identified the boy as Boo Chiyo, one who had a complicated relationship with the Silvers. There were many such in the galaxy, but Boo was on record. He was also very pointedly looking at Théo and Ylva, who were being rather...serious.

"Boo, right? That would be Théo and a woman who claims the name Ylva Solveig of Himmeldal. They seem to know each other."

[member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

The mood in the throne room was tense naturally, but there was also confusion written on the faces of all the leaders and chieftains after all they had all been summon, and it was the biggest gathering of them that Coci had ever seen on Midvinter. As Thyrian spoke of what he and his men had seen at Daal, she could not help but remember Húsavik. It was like that event all over again, but this time there had been no survivors, none to tell them who or what had caused such atrocities.

It was also very difficult to plan against an enemy like this, they had left no evidence behind save for the bodies which did not lend to tell a tale of their deaths either. No sabers, no blasters, no sword? so whoever they were were not of his world, maybe Offworlders? with some new weapons they had no knowledge of. She looked toward those in the room that might have some outside knowledge of things such as these. Thurion, Kära but their faces seemed to be searching for an answer as much as Coci.

She gripped Thurion's hand more for support for the both of them, a new enemy approached that they would have to fight side by side once more, but also because it helped her think. How many years had she lived in the darkness of the shadows operating as Jedi against such invisible threats and the only way was to be the same and in that period of her life, she had movement in stealth .. this was similar. It could not be some new large creature or a pack of them that had attacked the village, everything leaves a mark no matter how stealthy they are. But there was one thing in attacks like this that was universal. Misdirection.

Coci's brow pulled together, her mind racing as she looked to both Thurion and Thyrian, the majority of the forces on Midvinter were in the one place leaving leaving the rest of Midvinter open and undefended.

"The attack on Daal was not a warning, it was a strategic move". But what their next target would be was anyone's guess.

​

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

"What do you mean there was an attack?", It most certain explained why his uncles had left the capital in such haste. "Villages west of here are small and very few, why would anyone attack them?", he was speaking his thoughts but something more pressed on his mind. And why would Uncle call all the bannerman for this? There had to be more to it. In fact deep down he knew there was, there were too many unnatural things happening and over a wide area of Midvinter. He took Ylva by the hand, happy that she was alright and safe within the walls of Thainbroek. "I believe you have met Master Audren Sykes, but there is someone else I want you to meet".

"Greetings Master Sykes", he addressed the man on approach, and gave him respect of his title. "Good to see you again", even as a child when Théo had first meet the man, he was fascinated by him, the master with the dry sense of humour, that is if he decided to speak. Although Théo was going through the process of formalities it would be evident concern was on his face for the situation as hand however he soften more when he saw Boo.

And now something else was plaguing his mind. "Actually .. its Boo Heavenshield, my son", he turned to Ylva to take note of her reaction which was going to be anyone's guess. "Adopted son". This coming together in direr circumstances lent little to soften this, Théo just could not ignore the fact that he had a son nor would he. Nor the fact that Ylva was his girl and he loved her. He felt for her, he realised this was not ideal and added to all this was his parents are here as well and would no doubt see them both again very soon. Meeting the family Heavenshield all at once was baptism of fire.

Théo had not opted to enter the Grand Hall for the war council even though he had the right, there was a strong reason for it, but .. now that this moment hung in the air.. he wished he had. And he had a strong feeling Audren wished he was elsewhere too.

"Boo, Ylva is my girlfriend", He had wanted to do this correctly, in the right time and the right place but fate had turned against him. And inside Théo was cringing, he knew he was making a mess of this introduction, as he grandpapa would say, a complete balls up.

​

[member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"]​

 

[Micah tol Powl]

They seem to know each other?

Harumph. At [member="Audren Sykes"] comment, the boy scowled. This so-called [member="Ylva Solveig"] was a girl, which made her character questionable at best. The fact that she was putting her hands on his Théo did nothing to improve her standing.

Then Théo had to go and bring attention to the small Pantoran by introducing him. Or her. Whichever the case may be.

...his girlfriend?

Already, he didn't like her. Nevermind that she was a girl, that was his Théo! If some Dark Ginger of the Schutta thought she was just going to waltz on in and lay claim to his Théo, then she had another thing coming to her.

What thing, he had no idea. It was an expression that adults seemed to like to use however. So... something.

Harumph.

[member="Théodred Heavenshield"]​

 

[Ylva Heavenshield]

Ylva was surprised, to say the least by the fact that [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] chose not to follow the others into the Grand Hall; the War Council was however something she did very much wish to be a part of. She had found sympathy for the village of Daal. Enough so to justify stepping out of her typical priorities and hunting for them, that their children might eat well for the week. It had taken a few days, yet she had acquired all sorts of kills that she had thought would fit the people most beneficially.

They had been slaughtered, flayed and left out on display for all that might pass by to witness the horror of what had happened to them and to Ylva, this level of savagery dwarfed much of Clan Solveig's former transgressions so much that Théodred should have seen it coming when she turned to eye him with a sudden glare in disbelief and frustration. "He's your...What?" She replied, an edge to her response that could cut like a knife. Turning to glance back to [member="Boo Heavenshield"], Ylva quickly glanced him up and down, "No offense..".

Turning back to look to Théo, Ylva simply shook her head; "This really isn't..." Her words faded, a pause caught in the back of her throat as her eyes darted back towards the entrance to the Great Hall; "We'll talk about this later Théodred" she almost scowled under her breath, moving to take her leave of the small group and seeking to follow in the footsteps of [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] for whom had invited her to accompany he and his men, an offer that she had every intention of taking up for the sake of those that had been bloodied. There was a fire in her eyes, a passion in her heart that matched the fire in her hair. Her temper was riled enough with the massacre's after-party she'd been left to come across and now with talk of war on the horizon, she needed to focus on that alone least her temper get the best of her and that lead to influencing her reaction and control over the situation surrounding her man and his sudden declaration of having a Son.

Moving to enter the vast room housing the legion and the highborn, Lords of Midvinter, Jarl's and Ladies of province; the wild one pushed her way through the crowd in order to find herself in a position to best witness the scene and discussion unfolding around them. There had been more questions than answers, more fears than suggestions made in how to approach the preparations around such a foe of unknown proportions. With her emotions already pushed, her eyes on those arguing amonst themselves and the King before them with little but reassurances and being in such a difficult position, Ylva took it upon herself to call out in what might be a provocative question given the history between the Valkyri and the Aelvar.

"What about the Forest-Folk, the Aelvar?" she called forth to Thyrian himself with little real authority and right to speak; since when had that stopped her however. "Not long ago I met one East of the Tháinbroek...If I'm not mistaken, they hold Midvinter dear to heart, it is a part of them as much so as it is of you all. Has there been word from them at all ?".

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Velkar Odiirson"] | [member="Teign Hœgr"]​

[member="Dawnbringer"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Kahne Porte"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"]​

 

[Thirdas Heavenshield]

Upon their discovery at the hands of King Uncle, Thirdas spent remainder of their journey to the capital out of hiding, his legs dangling over the edge of the horse-drawn cart while his lips formed a surly pout. He had no doubt Papa would send the both of them back home, or at the very least make them stay inside the Great Hall where it was safe. There wasn't really a plan to his sneaking aboard the cart when his father's warriors mustered back in Fridheim; the Lion Cub rarely thought things through, after all, and most likely just felt like going on an adventure with his new friend. Whether he would actually get to fight, if there was to be one, was a whole 'nother matter!

At his side sat little [member="Kida"], now dressed in typical Valkyri clothes and wrapped in a warm fur to keep warm. Upon revealing her to his father, Thurion had offered her some of Nina's old clothes as Kida had none to wear. Even her hair looked neater than it had when they first met, though he doubted you'd ever be able to get a comb through it without getting caught. You'd probably lose it and never get it back, more like.

Once the cart pulled up alongside the main street and begin to unload their wares, Thirdas lept off alongside Kida and the two went on the prowl, skulking around the city to see what trouble they'd manage to get themselves into. "Come on," he took her by the hand as they roamed the streets, wanting to experience all it had to give. He knew she still had trouble walking upright so he would let her set the pace, though he wasn't afraid to test her limits, often urging her onwards like one would a toddler learning how to walk. Granted she was no mere toddler when it came to walking, but same principle.

They found the city centre, where the statue of the Dawnbringer presided over the citizens. Where market stalls would normally litter the open area now army tents were being pitched, with the constant clanging of hammer-against-anvil ringing wherever one turned. And in the midst of it all were two small figures wandering about, hand-in-hand. "That's my grandpapa," he told her and pointed to the statue of the man grasping his sword. "He was king back before I was born, and now my uncle is king. I call him 'King Uncle'."

Flawless logic.

Just as he then spotted big brother Théo in the crowd, suddenly a menacing roar was heard from down the street, past all the soldiers marching their way up. They soon parted as the white blur of fur rushed past them with great haste, stopping at nothing as it thundered on towards the Great Hall up the hill and just missing trampling both Thirdas and Kida on the way. Unbeknownst to either of the pair, the white blur was none other than [member="Arnor Oathsworn"], and when he reached the top of the stairs and stood before the large doors he rose from his four-legged sprint to stand upright, and in his arms he cradled a snow-haired woman...

[member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"]​

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

He understood well enough that this had not been the time nor the place, but when the two most important people in his life came face to face here in these horrid circumstances, what was he supposed to have done? Ignore their existence in his life? That would have been ridiculous. It seemed that he was damned if he did, damned if he didn't. After Ylva had decided to storm off and enter the Grand Hall for the talks, Théo would not run after her, if she wanted to be there so be it, he had had a more practical idea to this. Besides there was more than enough people in there to stand around talking. He was a product of both parents, and although he mostly took after his father, there was elements of his mother in him as well .. her practicality for one.

He turned to see Ylva vanish behind the great doors, his brow formed in a frown and unfortunately for her, it was probably not Boo that had been offended, but him. When someone utters the words 'no offense' generally means there was precisely that sentiment behind them. He understood she was surprised and disappointed in him but to take it out on his son was unwarranted and she had acted like a child herself. Boo is his son, the relationships had developed long before he had known of Ylva's existence, in fact it stemmed back as far as Théo's youth and had rekindled in their days with the Iron Empire. It was odd, but that was the way of it.

Family, Duty, Honour and Boo is a Heavenshield now.

From the bits and pieces of what had happened at this village called Daal, something or someone had destroyed the village entirely, leaving nothing behind save for death. This was extra-ordinary and he was not standing around until those that talked came to the conclusion that had had no idea what was going, that would be the outcome he supposed. It was time to go find something more concrete. He had a ship and he was about to use it. "I am going to do some scouting of my own".

He looked down into Boo's scowling face, no doubt not happy with Théo either, "Are you coming?", he asked his son although he would be more happy if Boo remained behind the walls of the city, he would be safe here, he supposed. "Master Sykes would be most welcome to come with me, but I understand if you wish to remain and .. freshen up", a slight grin managed to turn the corners of his lips.

He did not wait for responses as time was pressing and he was not in a very good mood and anything could happen at any point. Théo turned and walked the stone streets of Thainbroek headed for the front gate and the Tarly. It was time to take a look at Midvinter from the skies. He strode onto the ship determination in each of his steps and soon the Tarly's engines roared into life and with ease it lifted off the ground and he turned toward Daal, he wanted to see for himself.

On low approach to the village he could see the sickening swirling black smoke. It would be the funeral pyre, the bodies still burning and it was horrific enough to turn the stomachs of the strongest. The Valkyri scouts had been correct in their findings, there was nothing in the area to tell the tale of what happened, no tracks nothing. It was strangely isolated like a pointed attacked from a ship but his senses had no readings of any other ship over Midvinter, save for the Judgement. But even a strike from a ship leaves a 'calling card' and from what he saw it was not a ship. Théo turned the Tarly south, and in the far distance there was yet another column of smoke reaching into the skies. It was not a big as this but, something was on fire.

Was it another attack on a village?

He looked at the scanners, and it was all clear of anything, this truly was a puzzle on a grand scale but as his ship approached, he knew. Himmeldal. It was burned to the ground and all that was left was a smoldering black heap of rubble. Théo left out a sigh of frustration, but he was equally as pleased that Ylva was not there but safe back in Thainbroek. The ship landed and the ramp was lowing, had not even hit the surface before he jumped on the snow and ran to the house. There was little point in trying to put out the small pockets of fire, there was nothing left to save.

Was this another attack? that did not make any sense, there was little point to this. And again there was no sign of who or what did this, no tracks nothing, just another weird event among many of late. However, there was something .. unusual, unnatural. The flames of the fire .. were a rich emerald green. And as he looked into the flames, the same set of green eyes he thought he saw in the Northmark lights looked back at him.

"Surprise", came a deep melodic voice with a heavy sense of mirth. Théo fell back on his butt and scrambled a few meters back from the destruction, but he could not take his eyes off them. A sharp pain suddenly pierced his mind, and flashes of the past were pulled forward, he was trying to fight the intrusion which had it had been anyone else he could have but .. images of Mysa and he as child seeking out the Vhaanir in the forest before the end of the battle at Thainbroek, a deep set of black eyes from Belawir, piercing his soul to the core, their pleading for help in a childlike voice hoping the Gods were real and would come to help save them. The images of the old hag on the Isle, green unnatural youthful eyes set in an old wizened body, the lights in the Northmark and his blood running down the stone sword of Velkar ..

"No, it can't be", he uttered through gritted teeth as the pain of it all took hold. And suddenly the pain was gone as where the eyes. Théo sat trembling in the snow, pulled his legs to his chest as he tried to calm his mind against the sudden assault. As his breathing began to slow and his mind return to him something else sat at the very forefront of his thoughts and he turned his gaze toward the Sun. A realisation.

He started to laugh and cry at the same time, the tears streaming down his cheeks making vision impossible and his pent up grief he had buried deep down over the years for his grandpapa had surfaced once more. Out of all of them, the entire family it had been Théo and Mysa that had come close to him, he had meant so much to them both and when he was killed, their lives changed forever, both of them had had to bear the grief in their own way, both of them had left Midvinter because of it and more Mysa than Théo had become more distant from the family.

Théo had thought he had come to terms with it all, but no .. his grief poured out of him and sat in the snow like a child .. yet his tears changed from sadness .. to complete joy.

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] ​

 

[Audren Sykes]

It wasn't long before Théo and Ylva approached, still talking. The young Valkyr greeted Audren formally as 'Master Sykes'. Extra-formally in fact, now that Théo himself was a Master as well. The greeting was responded to with a nod and quiet and you. He'd not introduced himself as a Master in the field, but that was more out of practicality than a desire to avoid the implications of such a title.

When the younger man's gaze shifted to Boo though the expression shifted just slightly. He introduced the boy...as his son. Boo Heavenshield. Which was odd, since the Sephi could have sworn that Boo's last name was Chiyo. Not to mention the supposed memories of Boo and Théo running around the Silver Jedi Temple as peers...as children about the same age. Maybe there was some mistake in his memories, or maybe the different species aged differently. The blue skin that Boo wore made it very plain that he was not human. The second part - adopted son - was almost thrown on the end as an afterthought. The introduction of Ylva claimed her as Théo's girlfriend. Not that their actions and feelings in the Force hadn't made that clear.

The reactions were interesting. There was surprise on both sides of course. Boo's was an odd mix of stubbornness, displeasure, and a hint of jealousy. It wasn't romantic, more of a "this is mine and you can't have it" feel. Where the Pantoran's response had been completely nonverbal however, Ylva's was both verbal and otherwise. If glares had been lasers Théo would have been incinerated, and her voice carried an edge of its own. The once-over she directed at Boo was a classic: simultaneous examination and dismissal as sub-par. Shortly thereafter she told her boyfriend that they would talk later...and called him by his full name. Usually not a good sign.

Probably wisely, Audren didn't make a comment himself. The thought crossed his mind however: so...not the mama. Something about red versus blue too. But not a peep crossed his lips.

In all actuality, given Théo's own emotions it probably wasn't what he'd been hoping for, let alone planning. This was just one more example of plans going awry, which seemed to be a favorite pastime of the galaxy at large. It seemed everything came to a head and turned the younger man to a new path: he announced he was going scouting. Boo was asked if he was going and Audren was also offered the chance to come along, though a sly comment was offered at the same time, presumably due to his general state. The tips of the Sephi's ears reddened just slightly, which was absolutely due to the chill breeze that had just picked up.

"I doubt I'd find a free refresher anyways. I'll just use your sonic shower."

With that slightly insolent remark, the Master followed Théo to the ship he'd seen heading into Thainbroek. As the owner of a company that produced ships and a member of the Silver Jedi, he was aware of the model and knew it had a sonic shower installed as the standard. Unlike a normal shower, clothing could stay on. By the time the vessel had reached Daal, he was back to normal and up at the cockpit. He also could see the second pillar of smoke in the distance, and his concern was a mirror of the young man's. Closer in, it became obvious that another village had been razed. But...not a village. Just a single house, out here all alone, which would explain why he hadn't felt anything for this attack. Théo had some emotional investment in the place, since he was out the door before the ramp had even finished lowering.

The Sephi made his way off the ship as well, but instead of moving to the house itself he began circling the area. Prints, sounds, scents...anything he could find that would let them track the perpetrators would be helpful. Just like before though, he found nothing. During his search, when he was almost on the other side of the house, there was a twist in the Force. There was an intense outpouring of emotion, so much and so jumbled together that he couldn't even begin to sort through it. Audren hurried back to the house, pulling his lightsaber hilt as he closed with it. Sharp ears registered the sounds Théo was making, which cast absolutely no clarity on the situation. At least there didn't seem to be any injury. That odd sense in the Force had dissipated into nothingness, and now he couldn't sense anything unexpected nearby.

"Théo? What was that?"

[member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Thyrian Hearthfire"] | | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Thirdas Heavenshield"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

The sun had traveled greatly across the Midvinter sky before Eregon returned to the Aelvar village with his wife the Queen. They would find their daughter, Iòunn waiting anxiously for them both, she too had sensed the great unrest within the very depths of their home world. A father was proud of his daughter, she had grown into a beautiful young lady, her heart a big as the planet itself and strong in the powers of the Frostvatn. The Aelvar council had been summon and the Queen would attend as is her duty, but not before reassuring Iòunn, although their daughter was not spared the possibility that danger lay outside the borders of their Realm, it had always been this way for thousands of years, only this time the threat was not to come from the Valkyri.

Eregon was to ready his Rangers and depart for the Crownlands to meet with Valkyri and give assistance were possible. The Queen, however would remain behind, she had not committed all their strength to the cause north of here, those that were to remain behind were her special guardians of the forest that would, if needed, summon the help of something that resided within the tall reaching trees of the enchanted Realm. As old as Midvinter, and as incredible to behold.

"I am frightened father, why must you go?", Iòunn knew the answer but she never did like it when her father would leave for weeks on end. "The Aelvar has an accord with the King of Valkyri, Thyrian Hearthfire. As part of the pact were have vowed to stand together in times of great unrest .. and so the time as come". All he received in response was a frustrated sigh which made him smile. He knew his daughter well of course, and he turned to her leaning down to look into those wonderful blue eyes but his face was stern. "You must remain Iòunn, this time you can't hide away and come with me .. it is too dangerous. Promise me you will stay". It was with great reluctance that Iòunn gave her word and she keep it. He kissed his daughter fare well for now and left to join his Rangers.

​

​

The banner of Wuduælfen fluttered proudly alongside the Eregon as he lead the Ranger on horse back around the Frostvatn to the Luhte Pass, an enchanted passage between the Realms of Valkyri and Aelvar. It is not known to any but the Aelvar, cut through the narrow passage on the mountain rangers that surround their beloved forests. Forged from rock and the mouth of the passage shrouded in illusion that to anyone else they would only see the side of the rock face. Hidden words of a language ancient the only means by which to find the passage back.

The Rangers rode at speed, their mounts fueled with the power of the Frostvatn and their riders who all drew strength from it. Eregon raised his hand, a subtle gesture would remove the illusion and if anyone was to witness them emerging from the passage would marvel that such beings could be born from the stone, as horse and riders appeared through the mouth. But no one was there to witness this, very few venture this deep into the valley in which they ride .. it is known as the valley of whispers and legend tells of those that enter here, vanish forever.

Legends has a place in reality, it was the way of it .. once.

Eregon turned his steed toward the north, his destination of Thainbroek, however in the distance there was a swirling column of black smoke. Horses hooves plowed through the snow, the sound of which could be hear before they even approached what was once a house called Himmeldal, now burned to the ground. There were people there ...

​

[member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Thurion remained quiet through much of the council meeting. There were talks of dividing the army into several large patrols to scour the lands far and wide until the guilty were found, or that they send an emissary to the Aelvar and find out what they know. No-one had any good ideas, only desperate ones. To do nothing was simply impossible, for who knows when the next attack would occur, let alone where? Besides, now that the bannermen and their armies were summoned they basically looked for any excuse to wage war. It was all just a huge mess, despite Thyrian putting on a brave face and attempting to keep the chieftains in check. Thurion had never felt so useless.

But as they sat around the tables, he slowly looked up from his weary pondering, eyes widening as he turned to look over at Coci to see whether she'd sensed it too. "Nina..." he was able to whisper for her ears only just as the doors to the Great Hall flew open - a set of doors that would normally take two strong men to slowly push open, mind you. A loud, intimidating roar echoed throughout the enormous room, causing everyone to jump out of their seats and reach for their weapons. All eyes were fixed upon the hulking form of a Beorni carrying a white-haired girl in his arms.

Thurion was no exception, having leaped out of his seat as the meeting was so intensely interrupted. Yet he did not reach for his sword, but rather rushed towards he whom he recognised as Arnor. "It's Nina," he called out as he took possession of her seemlessly lifeless body and carried her over to the nearest hearth for warm. She was freezing cold, yet as he laid her down on the floor a faint shiver of her fingers and trembling lips told him what he needed to know. "She's alive," he assured them, Coci above all. Further examination revealed that she had suffered a severe blow to the head, along with several minor cuts and bruises scattered across her body.

Arnor remained by her side as she was carried away, and when Thurion began tending to her he let out soft whimpers of concern for his dearest friend. "P-papa...?" came a weak voice from the device around her neck, but Thurion merely shushed in response. "Don't talk, sweetie. Save your strength." It was always difficult, acting the part of a doctor when dealing with friends and family. But this was his only daughter, and his eldest child.

"W-we came across... something south of here," she continued, rejecting her doctor's orders with what little strength she could muster. "A large gateway, swirling like... like a maelstrom. We... we got closer and... foul beings stepped out of it. Black, spiky armour..." She let out a cough or two as her eyes south her father's. There was utter silence in the room, and when Arnor so very gently caressed her forehead with his large, furry finger she offered him a faint smile. "They a-ambushed us, but... Arnor saved me, fought them off. Took me here. Home..." As she began to doze off, Thurion made sure she was comfortable where she lay wrapped inside layers of furs.

"She's sleeping," he informed them before placing a loving kiss upon her forehead. "She will recover, gods be good." He grabbed hold of Coci and pulled her close for an embrace. Meanwhile, Thyrian sidled up to Arnor. "Nina mentioned a place south of here," he spoke, prompting the towering Beorni to meet his gaze. The two were of the same mindset, and as the King of Men placed a hand upon his shoulder, Arnor's own balled up into a fist able to crush a man's head.

"Show us."

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"]​

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

This whole situation was fast becoming intolerable, all they had to go on was speculation at best and it was time to do something, anything to find out what exactly had happened to his village or rather who had committed these horrible acts. Coci's patience was growing thin and very quickly, patience has never been a virtue of hers, she is the first to admit that as well. She was about to speak and instill in them all the need for haste when a red headed woman pushed her way through the horde of Valkyri and voiced her opinion and thoughts. However, Coci was more peaked by her introduction, a brow raised as she mentioned Himmeldal as if she owned it. Was she some kind of a squatter? or did she know the current resident?

Either could be possible.

As the leaders continued their discussion, Coci moved toward the young girl that called herself [member="Ylva Solveig"], "Greetings Ylva .. can you tell me by what right you call yourself 'of Himmeldal'?", a mother protective of her son's possessions asked the question and after all it had been the resident of her and Thurion in the past as well. There was no anger in her voice nor accusation in fact her words measured and calm. The force was with this one, which is not unusual on Midvinter to find Valkyri attuned, but most of the time they are unaware of it, but not this young girl. It was present upon her mind, and maybe she is untrained but willingly or not, she uses it.

However, before Ylva could respond, Coci's head snapped toward the door just as Thurion's had, she had sensed Nina too. The doors burst open, and the larger than life Beorni entered with Nina in his arms. Coci remember the one called Arnor from battles past and knew him to be gentle and fearsome. She rushed to Nina's side as Thurion worked on her, healing her wounds and Coci helped as best she could.

What had happened to her daughter was disconcerting to say the least, and what she informed them of was no doubt the attackers they seek. It was clear the direction was laid, and soon everyone would prepare and move out. But for now mother and father were simply glad Nina would be alright, and she held Thurion in the embrace with a sense of relief. "We shall get Nina settled and then we must prepare", she spoke for Thurion only.

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"]​

 

[Thrand Hearthfire]

Thrand had remained by his bedroom window even as the War Council convened in the throne room downstairs, instead preferring to watch as more and more soldiers kept pouring in and pitching tents in every colour combination imaginable. Anvils rang throughout the city as swords were sharpened and armours went through last-minute adjustments. He'd never experienced war before, though he'd been schooled in its arts for years growing up and had shown great promise in strategy and tactics. He was also an accomplished swordsman, but again - he'd never faced down a man who wished him dead before.

The fluttered of wings caught his attention as a white owl appeared by his window. Noting the message it carried he let inside, allowing it to sit upon the windowsill as he plucked the tiny roll of parchment from its leg. It was a language he only knew in part, but from the characters he could deduced that it was written in the Aelvar language. And there was only one of their kind who would send him a message personally.

He knew this, for one of the few words he did recognise, was the word 'love'.

This only strengthened his resolve, as well as his decision. He looked to his bedside where Dawn currently sat in its sheathe and swiftly snatched it from its resting place before giving the white owl one last look. He nodded in appreciation, and the owl promptly vanished out the window, returning to its sender. Marching down the stairs towards the throne room, he entered the room just as Nina was brought before his aunt and uncle. Approaching step by step, he overheard their conversation and once his father had addressed the Beorni warrior, Thrand announced his presence.

"Father," he spoke up, clutching his sword with both hands. "If there is to be a battle, then let me come with you." Thyrian turned to face him, eyes wide with surprise to see his eldest, soon turned to sorrow at his subsequent request. "I know what you're going to say, but I need to go. There are plenty boys my age already marching to war as we speak, and if I'm to one day lead our people I need to bleed and shed blood with them. You can't keep me from danger forever."

Thyrian remained speechless, until Thurion appeared at his side. "They say it is a proud moment, when a father fights alongside his son for the first time. He speaks the truth, brother." Begrudgingly, the High King gave his approval in the form of a silent nod, trying his best to maintain composure. "Thank you, father," Thrand said as he stepped forth and embraced him as best he could, still being much smaller than he. Thyrian returned the embrace with all his might, not ever wanting to let go, and as he did he looked at Kära over his son's shoulder. There was a quiet understanding between them that they could not refuse their firstborn, despite their wishing to do just that.

Thrand, meanwhile, shot a glance over at his uncle and smiled with gratitude. Thurion sent him a subtle wink in return.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Kära Hearthfire"] | [member="Ylva Solveig"] | [member="Boo Heavenshield"] | [member="Audren Sykes"]​