We Are the Sons of Winter and Stars [Coci Sinopi | Ask to Join]

[Coci Heavenshield]

The King [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"]​

​

[SIZE=10.5pt]At the sound of her biological father’s name, Aerin stiffened. Pushing back the feeling of hatred for him, and the fact she had not disclosed her heritage to Thrand, she would of course but after the battle. She hated the idea of keeping this from Thrand but he would have to understand when she would tell him. The battle comes first, preparations to provide for all Valkyri to be the best armed as possible, to be the best informed as the enemy and to be the best strong arm on the field.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]Strong arm, her father’s name, the man that raised her as his own and loved her equally. She will avenge him on the morrow, although Beorlund had issued the order it was the Gudvaer Njal that had plunged his blade through her father’s heart. Her day will come. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]She leaned over the table next to her Lord, eyeing the map and drawn plans, she could see the scribbles of movement planned for the generals and clans and the plan looked sound. The hardest assault would be on Thainbroek. Breaching the walls will prove their best test and victory. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]“My Lord I will take out the war engines with Clan Sabina they are made of wood, thick to be sure but I can deal with them”,[/SIZE][SIZE=10.5pt] she paused for a moment.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]“On the battle field will be Gudvaer Njal, one of the man that helped with putting the Usurper on the throne, he also did the dirty work for the serpent and killed Radford Strongarm, my father and one of your most loyal supports, even when you were in exile, he never lost hope for your return. Njal, murdered him on the orders of the Usurper. I will seek revenge for this on the field, once I have remove the engines I will be looking for him. Please forgive me for such thoughts and want for blood my Lord, but I would never rest well in Beornskald if I fail to rip his throat”. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]Aerin stood tall and proud, as her Lord issued his own orders for her to go and celebrate, but that would be the last thing she would do. Instead she would return to her provided tent and prepare for the morning.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]“I will walk by your side as we enter the halls Beornskald and proclaim your name as the true King of Midvinter and sing your praises to the Gods so they will know of your valour, courage and honour”.[/SIZE][SIZE=10.5pt] Aerin bowed low and left her Lord to his own mind for the rest of the night.[/SIZE]

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

As his beloved spoke, Thurion began lighting the fire, using the provided flint and tinder. The cold weather made it difficult to create even sparks, let alone enough to light the fire, but with patience and diligence the tufts of dry grass providing the base for the campfire began to light up. Soon they had a nice fire going, with rocks surrounding it to keep it from spreading, and as Coci concluded her thoughts on his posed question he merely placed a hand against her soft cheek, now lit up by the fire casting its yellow and red hue across their quarters. "You are too wonderful." That was all he could say in response to her, and he followed it up with a loving kiss upon her lips before gazing into the fire, putting an arm around Coci to keep her close.

Staring into the fire, he didn't know why he felt so afraid, all of a sudden. Perhaps it was tomorrow's battle, knowing he had both his father and his beloved fighting alongside him to watch over. Perhaps it was as simple as thinking their tent would catch fire and burn to the ground. He knew it was neither, for in the flames he saw his brother screaming for mercy, begging him to save him. The faint echo of his voice rang in his ears, and closing his eyes only made the image more vivid. Finally he turned to Coci out of desperation, gazing into her dark, sparkling eyes in which he'd always found such comfort. This time was no exception, as the echoing cries of his brother began to fade, as did the image in his mind. Now there was only her, so loving and caring, occupying his mind. "Coci..." he whispered, resting his head above her heart. "I love you."

[member="Coci Sinopi"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

Her beloved [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

​

The prickle of heat she felt on her cheeks was twofold, firstly from the loving kiss of warm lips placed upon her's and secondly from the lit fire, burning with intent to warm their quarters. She has never felt cold like this, the icy air of Midvinter, but it is invigorating rather than a chill of the body and bone. It would not be long before she would need to discard the fur Thurion had placed on her for protection against the elements.

However, she became more concerned then before as a spike of fear rippled down the force bond to her. It was more palpable than fear of battle, they had faced such situations before and other dangers that had threatened them both, it is more personal more deep seated. Coci became more alarmed as he looked into her eyes with complete desperation and she was about to asked what had happened, had he sensed something, but as soon as they made eye contact the fear vanished. But not her concern.

Her hand lifted and rested on his head playing with his long golden locks for a moment, as he rested against her chest. "My love for you I express with each breath I take, each thought I have and you fill my dreams. But more than this, I care .. and something has frightened you. I felt it, tell me what it is".

She leaned down and kiss the top of his head, the softness of her own lips tingling with the touch of his hair and his manly scent. "I doubt we will sleep tonight, but we should rest. Let us prepare our bed and lay among the fur". She would spend the night holding him until all his doubts and fears are dispelled.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OadsmXjDBFk

Nodding softly at her suggestion, he began removing the many thick layers of clothing, starting with the furs wrapped around his shoulders like a cloak. There stood an empty wooden chest in the corner of the tent which would come in handy storing their clothes for the night. Once he was down to a pair of pants only, he lay down amongst the softness of the furs, making for excellent makeshift beds as well as protection against cold. It seemed all things native to Midvinter had more than one practical use. Thurion then invited Coci to join him on the floor, taking her hand in his and stroking it gently with his thumb.

As the two lay in front of the fire, Thurion gazed up at the shadows it cast against the ceiling, dancing softly across it. His arms were around his beloved, his fingertips lightly caressing her skin. "I grew up on Pelagon, as you know", he started. "My mother died giving birth to me, and my dad couldn't bear the loss of his wife, leaving my older brother to care for me. We were raised in an orphanage together for the next seven years of our lives. Then one day, a local gang set fire to it after our caretaker refused to pay tribute to their boss. Me and my brother had been sent out to buy groceries, and when we returned we discovered all our friends were trapped inside. We ran inside and tried to help them, but it was futile. As the roof came crashing down, my brother shoved me out the window."

He turned his head to look into her eyes. "He sacrificed himself to save me. Me. He was always better than me at everything, and everyone looked up to him. I was just his weaker younger brother, but he was always nice to me. I didn't believe anything could ever harm him, he was invincible. Then suddenly, I was left alone and forced to watch him burn alive until finally I passed out from shock and exhaustion. It wasn't long after that I was found by Master Asha, who took me to Tython to become a Jedi." He placed a soft kiss upon her hand. "It was my biggest failure, and it haunts me, still."

[member="Coci Sinopi"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

her love [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

​

As they both prepared for bed, Coci found her small bag she had carried filled with some personal items and night clothes. Normally not needed when the two are home or in private quarters, but this trip she had employed prudence not knowing the etiquette of Midvinter. It is also very cold. She removed the fur and carefully placed it within the wooden box provided for their clothes, on top of that she placed her shirt and trousers, her boots she left by the side. The warmth of the fire licked her skin as she stood in only her undergarments, the tingle of the cold and warm meeting and danced in unison upon her body. She turned slightly to see Thurion already in the bed of fur and smiled, as she removed all her clothing before sliding on her white night garment, a thin white cotton night dress which fell down to her upper tights, a thin strap over her shoulders, the only thing to keep the dress on.

Coci moved quickly over to the furs and laid next to Thurion already seeking his bodily warmth, she moved close to him until she felt his firm body on hers. His caresses aiding the growing warmth amid the fur bed.

She listened, as each word of his past came from his heart, her eyes filled with tears. She had never known such sadness in her life, even though she had seen the deaths of friends over her life, it was nothing compared to the tragedy of the young boy he once was. The emotions of the father had written the destiny of the sons, had Thrand remained their lives would have been entirely different, but the hand of fate is harsh and the emotions of people, remind them they are mortal. Regardless of a life lost because of this, Thurion had forgiven his father and has began to form the relationship they had lost.

Thurion was just a boy. The fire of the orphanage never his fault nor the events that ensued there after.

"You were a young child Thurion, a five year old boy. Far too young to witness and face such tragedy. Your brother able to do things because he was older but that does equate to you not having the capacity when you became the same age. A child of five could register the understanding of evil, but fight it? No, not possible as much as you would have given life to do so", she too held his hand and caressed him.

"Your life has been strongly influenced by your past which is normal, and recently you found your father once more, and you forgave him for his past, his decisions that effected your life. You are very strong Thurion, most would not have done this, would not have had the strength to forgive. But there is one more person you need to forgive, for something he was not at fault for, for an event out of his control, you need to find forgiveness for yourself". She reached up and kissed his forehead. "You did not fail anyone".

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Her words were like the song of angels, and her touch just as heavenly. As she placed a kiss upon his forehead, he responded by grabbing hold of her and pulling her on top of him. As they lay there amongst the furs, he gazed up longingly into her eyes. His fingers ran through her black hair, removing any stray hairs from her face as he then cupped her cheek with his remaining hand. "I am yours, and you are mine. Now and forever", he whispered. He then raised his head to place his lips upon hers, breathing in that celestial scent that only she possesses while being graced by that softest of touches from her lips.

Outside it had become considerably more quiet, with only the faintest of drunken cheers audible in the distance. Most had probably turned to their beds for the night, some with women by their sides and some without. In Thurion's case, there would ever only be one woman to share his bed, and she was right there with him now. Their love for each other a thing of beauty, and their bond unbreakable. They had been to hell together, risked everything for each other, and now they were stronger because of it.

[member="Coci Sinopi"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

[member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

​

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvM8GYj3u4Q

Looking down into his sapphire blue eye, she smiled. The reason for it simply because she had removed his pain, or at least the start of it. Time it would take, for Thurion to begin to forgive himself and she would be there each step of the way. Healing takes time, self healing even longer and when the injury is scarred upon the soul it never is truly removed. Time does not heal, as they say, but it does give you the time to be able to cope better.

"Forever yours..", she whispered back. "..in this world, and in the next? yours for all eternity".

Thurion kissed her. The prickle of his beard played gently on her cheek, her lips parted to receive the loving touch and she too returned her love to him. It is one of those kisses that lasts forever, forever etched on the heart to live and breath and grow. Nothing more exists in this moment only the presence of him and his warmth.

Without breaking their physical connection she moved to lay upon the fur bringing him with her. Her hands reach for his back and she holds him close, the firmness of his back under her touch fuels the fire of love and longing and her kiss is the portal through which all her emotion pour. Their force bond prickling with emotions riding high, such emotions entwined - the spiritual emotion of love and bond, of the past, coupled with fear and the coming battle. T

Tonight she will express her love and make love and give herself entirely to the man that she holds as extraordinary.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

The Following Morning...​

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Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttYc3EZlFFU​

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Dawn had fallen upon the white crystalline snow adorning Midvinter, and with the rising sun the inhabitants of this world began to stir awake. Few had already gotten their hungover selves out of bed, and even fewer had managed to get outside their tents. Two people who didn't feel like being in a hurry to move at all were Thurion Heavenshield and [member="Coci Sinopi"] as they lay covered in furs and wrapped together in loving embrace. The crisp, cool air made it even easier to smell her wonderful scent to which he'd grown so addicted, just like the gentle touch of her hair upon his skin. However, nothing could ever beat the feeling of another's body against yours, sharing the warmth and comfort of each other.

Today would prove extra difficult to tear himself away from the comfort of the night, as well as the company of the warm, naked body of his beloved. Even so, Thurion placed a very gentle kiss upon Coci's forehead as she lay sleeping nestled against his chest. He then turned his head towards the entrance of their tent in response to some sort of commotion going on outside. There were faint voices heard coupled with the sounds of hooves, hundreds of them. They did not belong to horses, but much lighter and more nimble beasts. This had made Thurion mighty curious, who now tried his very best not to wake up his beloved as he slipped out of bed to get dressed. Throwing on a pair of pants and a shirt, he moved towards the entrance and peeked through a tiny opening.

What he saw was a scenery so inspiring and beautiful that his heart skipped a beat. Outside, wandering leisurely through the army encampment without hinderance, were a large horde of what looked like white reindeer. They were the Vhaanir, as white as the snow they walked upon and sacred to all Valkyri. Where they step they must not be disturbed or hindered, for to do so is to summon the wrath of the Gods. They are as friendly an animal as can be, and few are lucky enough to be able to ride one. Thurion was not the only one awakened by these celestial beings, as thousands of Valkyri now stood or kneeled outside their tents in awe of this sign from the Gods.

Just as he was about to turn around to wake up Coci, a Vhaanir had stopped to peek inside their tent, stuffing its entire head through the opening. It had no horns, which led Thurion to believe it was not yet an adult, a theory supported further by its smaller size. Surprised to say the least, he backed away towards Coci still lay in bed. "Coci, wake up..." he whispered while reaching for her hand. By the time she did wake up, however, the young stag had fully entered their tent and now merely stood gazing upon the two with its innocent eyes. All Thurion could do was to stare back at it, marvelling at its natural beauty.

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

Lord [member="Thurion Heavenshield"]​

​

Behold, the delicate white flower that blooms upon stone and ice.​

That Bends against the railing wind facing adversity with quiet elegance,​

A strength in fragility and defiance.​

​

Such beauty exists to conquer death with life, ever continuing ..​

The flower opens, ready to receive the Bounty.​

And from the seed life renews.​

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Born this day, are Kings and Queens of the land of stone and ice.​

Upon the mountains, their realm of blanket white, there to watch legend raise Standards high. ​

​

These words writ on parchment that floated down upon the wind that rustled around Coci as she stood in a field of white snow. She is dressed not as Jedi but in her white nightgown, she does feel the chilling cold as one not of Midvinter should. Her hand plucks the parchment from air and she reads.

A horn in the far distance sounds, deep within the walls of Thainbroék signalling the return of the King, he is home. Coci runs down the side of the mountain, through a field of small white flowers that fill the air with the sweetest of perfume. Her hand still holds the parchment, her bare feet run barely leaving an imprint behind, her heart races with excitement as she sees in the distance coming along the road toward the capital, the royal retinue. As she nears, his long blonde hair shines in the morning sun as he rides high in the saddle. Thurion.

She stands high on a large rock to wait for him, and when only meters she sees another. A young man of broad shoulders, black hair and blue eyes. Such a proud forehead and strength of jaw he wears as one born to lead and her eyes widen at the look of him. She catches his eye, his head turns and looks upon her face. He smiles and opens his mouth to speak..

“Coci, wake up”.

------------------------------------------------

She had not slept deeply this night, but drifted between the worlds of reality and vision. Her body moves and stretches to rid the stiffness of sleep and of much of the night which was spent in love making. A smile moves her lips as she begins to remember the evening’s events before she opens her eyes to find her Thurion. Yet he is not beside her, her body recognising his absence and she awakes.

Thurion’s hand found her first and she looked to him to see what the matter was, only to find him looking at a sight which took her breath away. Before her a young white creature of the likes she had never seen, words not adequate to describe it or what she felt as the creature look on them with large black innocent eyes.

“I must be dreaming still, or it is a vision of splender”, she could bare speak fearing the image would end or take flight. Yet Thurion’s touch is real, his hand warm within hers.

“Thurion what is this creature of majesty?”.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

On his knees before the creature looking back at him with calm eyes, Thurion couldn't help but feel curious about the animal. He held out his free hand towards it, open palm facing the ceiling. The Vhaanir did little to react, merely tilting its head to the side slightly as if in wonderment about the human's actions. Realising nothing would happen, Thurion then reached down beneath one of the furs to grab a handful of straw littered about to keep the cold out at night. He made another attempt, now presenting the young stag with the handful of straw. This caused the Vhaanir to take a few careful steps forward, eyes fixed on Thurion's. It smelled his hand at first, and once it had made sure it was safe it happily began eating from his hand. Its rough tongue licked his palm as it feasted upon the hay, tickling him.

"It's a Vhaanir", he finally spoke, unable to look away as he watched the stag eat. "My... brother told me stories about them, back at the orphanage. Father must've told him about them before I was born. He said... He said that they are the embodiment of all things pure and innocent. That the Gods watch us through their eyes." Letting go of Coci's hand, he carefully began caressing the stag's long neck, feeling its soft, white fur. The Vhaanir didn't seem to mind as it was busy eating. Once the hay had run out, Thurion quickly grabbed another handful and offered it. "Here, feel it", he said, reaching for Coci's hand and placing it upon the white fur. Realising she still wasn't wearing anything, he let her take over the feeding as he began wrapping her body in one of the furs lying on the floor.

[member="Coci Sinopi"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

~~ Lord [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] ~~​

​

There is no fear or ill intent from the Vhaanir, but purity of spirit. The young stag considering Thurion with full eyes as his hand stretched out laden with hay. Coci could only remain place not wanting to disturb the scene playing out before her, but as if with innocent eyes of her own, she watched in wonderment. With the morning light funneling through the small gap in the top of the tent a vent for the fire's smoke, the white pelt of Vhaanir shimmered as if it is truly touched by the Gods of Midvinter.

As the stag moved forward and ate from Thurion's hand, she smiled and laughed so softly sensing the pure delight run through him as the stag's tongue licked at his skin. Coci inched forward to see more closely hold the bed fur to her body. However, Thurion took her hand and placed it against the neck of the stag. Even though young, the stag;s neck firm and strong could be felt under her touch. Slowly she stood as Thurion placed the fur around her, her hand full of hay lay flat against the stag's muzzle, she could feel the warmth of it's breath as it tasted the scent once before eating.

A short intake of breath was all she allowed herself to escape her lips, fearing once more that the stag would vanish. It's nibbling lips played on her skin as it gathered the hay, although Coci had considered the fur bedding to be most soft, it was nothing compared to this, her hand never had felt such softness as the finery of this radiant creature that blessed and graced both she and Thurion with it's presence.

"I don't ever want to leave Midvinter".

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

For the next minute or so all they did was feeding and petting the gentle creature, who showed no signs of concern for them doing so. Once it had had its fill, it stepped further towards the two humans and gave them both an affectionate lick on the cheek before turning around and stepping outside. Thurion couldn't help but follow, walking out into the Midvinter cold wearing nothing but a shirt and a pair pants. Once outside the young stag joined the rest of the herd slowly making its way though the encampment. Before leaving it cast an eye back at Thurion who waved at it smiling.

When the last of the Vhaanir left, everyone in camp experienced the same state of grace. Many cheered and shouted, raising their hands to the skies in celebration of this sign from the Gods. Soon Thurion realised how cold it actually was and quickly made his way back inside. "How amazing was that?" he said giddy as a school boy as he expelled the cold by donning one of the furs. Still caught up in the moment, he grabbed Coci and locked lips with her as her body heat help warm him. Moments later a familiar voice was heard from outside their tent. "Lord Heavenshield, I bring a message from your father. The army is getting prepared to move out in an hour, and he wants you and your lady to be front and center alonside himself."

"Thank you, Mannfreyd. You may tell my father he needn't worry - we'll be there." Once Mannfreyd had returned to his duties, Thurion quickly put his arms around Coci and lay her down on the floor, pinning her by the wrists. "After this..." he then said with a smirk on his face as he gazed longingly into the eyes of his fiancée. They shared in passionate kissing once more, neither wearing much else other than the furs draped around them. The passionate act soon turned into more of a loving embrace, with Thurion simply putting his arms around her and holding her close. "No matter what happens today, know that I will always love you and no other. I am yours, and you are mine, forever."

[member="Coci Sinopi"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

~~ Lord Thurion Heavenshield ~~​

​

She did not move as the Vhaanir approached them both and placed an affectionate lick on their faces, the whole experience surreal and breath taking and Thurion was in awe as much as she. She followed Thurion to the flap of the tent, but she did not leave the tent but looked outside through it and watched as the celestial creatures began their departure. Holding the thick fur to her body, not really feeling the cold as the event had removed all thoughts of it, but to keep modesty as some of the Valkyri gathered around amazed at the sight.

The cheers echoed around the encampment, a portent of the Gods for a result of the battle in Thrand's favour, she took it as such as well, even though she did not hold belief in such things, but after this she had to admit it helped. It is the will of the force, such things are signs of it and even though subjected to views of individuals, it remains the same.

Thurion stood only in his barest of clothes without, and was soon approached by Mannfreyd once more, bringing them both back to reality. The Prince, Thrand Dawnbringer is preparing and they would soon take to the battle field along side him. He is father, to a nation, to a son and to her.

Returning to the confines of their blue and gold tent, Thurion took her and laid them both on the fur bed once more. A look of surprise in her eyes before he kissed her once more, his blood up with all the emotions of the morning and the coming battle. It was no different for her, adrenaline had began to cause through her veins knowing their lives will soon be under threat and facing the evils of the galaxy once more. This time under circumstances not only personal but of an entirely different nature in war craft.

Coci held him close to her in return, placing her face by his face and breathing him in. Her eyes closed to heighten her moment of love, "Eternally yours, now and after death. Know that my love for you, knows no bounds". She sort his lips once more and kissed him like it was the last time.

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

~ Prince [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"] ~ Prince [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] ~​

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Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lCq4PRvCcg

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The night had passed looking into a tall tankard of mead as she sat at a small table in her tent. As ones minds is want to do, many images appeared in the amber liquid as her mind thought over events in her past since leaving Midvinter to adventure into the wider galaxy. None of it mattered anymore, the only thing important to her now is the coming dawn.

As Aerin grew fatigued of her own mind, she moved to the covers of her bedding and lay among the furs, but she did not sleep. Her eyes diving deep into the smoldering embers of the fire and remained there. Dancing within the fire are all those images she had received over time, the whispers through the force sending messages of this moment. The rally to the king on a battle field, years ago she had not understood them, until now. The man of her images and vision, Thrand Dawnbringer, stand tall on a hill calling her to arms .. and she answered.

She understood everything now.

As the dawn intruded into her tent, she pushed back the fur covers and stood. Her eyes finding her armour and weapons of a Shieldmaiden and beside that her lightsaber. Outside the commotion of Valkyri awakening and preparing, the clinking of the forge signally war is close at hand, but she paid no attention to it all, blocking everything out to concentrate on her ritual.

Aerin removed all her leather clothing, standing naked in the cold Midvinter air, even the fire could not remove her cold but she did not falter. She took a small container from her bag and took off the lid, inside a thick oily resin, with little scent and brown to the eye. After placing it by the fire for a short time to soften the contents, she began.

Pouring the warm oil into her hand, she rubbed her body, smearing the oil across her stomach, down her legs. More to place over her arms and chest, her bottom and back. As she rang her hands together, the remaining oil was massaged into her neck and face. Once this was completed, she gathered her long red hair to braid in one long plait which fell down her back to her waist.

Aerin redressed into her underclothing, and soft leathers to be worn under her armour. It was time and with each plate carefully placed she soon stood adorned and armed, with long sword, shield, light saber and bow and quiver. She will now go and find BlackWing and prepare her trusted war horse.

As she opened the flap to her tent, and stepped out, her eyes widened to see the Vhaanir. She immediately fell to her right knee and bowed her head in reverence as they passed.

 

[Thrand Hearthfire]

​

Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUZeSYsU0Uk​

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My Serene,

The struggle continues, as it has for years now, but today is when all is decided. All my life I have run away from myself only to regret those now-missing pieces of me. I left my homeworld after father died and Beorlund - that snake - seized the throne through bribery and murder. I was saved that time by you, light of my life. But then I made an even more grievous mistake; leaving our two boys to their fates. Once you departed this realm I couldn't take it anymore; I couldn't bear seeing you in our sons, who both shared so much of us in them. Once again I was en exile - a stranger to both myself and the people I had sworn to protect growing up. All I did was wallow in self-pity and waiting for old age to claim me, knowing I would not enter Beornskald upon my death for my failure.

I've met him, my sun and stars. Thurion, the babe you only got the chance to hold once in your arms. He's taken after so much of you; your hair, your gentle ways and benevolent soul. His eyes are as mine once were, sparkling like sapphires in the sun, and he is strong, even by Valkyri standards. I see my younger self in him, yet he will become a better man than I will ever be. Is that not the way it should be, that the son surpasses the father? He has remained true to his calling - that of the Jedi - which is more than I can say about myself. I am so very proud of him and that I may still call him 'son', even though I have no right in doing so.

I give thanks to the Gods every day for granting me this last chance at redemption. I am a flawed person, Sarah. I am not worthy of your love and I never were, yet you would not let me give in to doubt. I will not let you down a second time, my love. I won't let our son down. He is all I have left in this world.

Forgive me, my heart, but I must go. Dawn approaches fast on Midvinter and I must prepare. The horns of battle and drums of war calls for me once again.

Forever yours,

Thrand, son of Threign

The letter was then placed in the fire, and Thrand watched as it was consumed by the flames and its ashes rose to the skies above, hoping his words would reach her.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

It was time. The army was mustering and they had to be prepared to join them soon. Thurion had just gotten himself dressed when the voice of Mannfreyd was heard from outside their tent once more. "My Lord, I have procured what you asked me to. Your father had it prepared for your arrival." Knowing what this was about, Thurion replied. "Very good, Mannfreyd. You just leave it outside, I'll take care of it." Two heavy *thumps* was heard as he placed the large chests upon the ground right outside their entrance, then turned around and went about his buisness. "I have a present for you", he told [member="Coci Sinopi"] while pulling the flap aside to let her out.

What awaited them were two chests, one of which had been fetched from his ship and contained his suit of royal Valkyri armour, while the other remained a mystery. It possessed no lock, for what lay within was of no use to anyone on Midvinter but her. "Go ahead, open it", he said smiling.

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

~ Prince Thrand Dawnbringer ~​

​

After the passing of the Vhaanir, Aerin raised her head to the skies. Her eyes looking upon the soft light of dawn as the sun began it's journey across the Midvinter. Which standard would it shine upon this day?

The cold biting air refreshing to her blood, after much experience with differing climes on other planets, there is nothing, nothing that fills her soul, set her sinews and fires her blood as Midvinter. Regardless of the history, be it that of Kings and Clans or personal, this is home and she will die for it. The beauty of Midvinter unmatched, it's pristine air, virgin snow capped mountains, forests of vast as continents on other places, extraordinary creatures of the Gods and others graced the soil to provide sucker for it's peoples. A culture steeped rich with legend of heroic deeds and foul, of might battles between the Clans, through love and war, all write on the tapestry of this our fair land, our Midvinter.

Today, Aerin will find her place on the tapestry, and she will proudly do this by the side of her King, [member="Thrand Dawnbringer"]. She will see him soon enough, for now he resides within his tent, pensive with thoughts of the command of a leader, his issue of orders to send others into battle, others that will not see the sunset all in the name of Midvinter. But he need not fear or doubt, as all on his side would charge to the war cry for the Glory of Midvinter. To bring the Dawn of Freedom to their beloved homeland once more, for them, for family and for their King.

She pulled up her bent knee to stand, to follow after the Vhaanir as they left the encampment, only to turn and the flying standard of Clan Sabina gently flying the cold breeze that tussled at the tent tops.

"My Lady Firebrand, your war horse has been cared for and ready for you to prepare", she turned to see one of her clan members approach. "Thank you, Caarl, summon all Clan Sabine to be ready for when the King calls us to arms, inform them we have orders to flank and take out the war machines, then we join the battle proper and rally to the King".

"Yes my Lady!", the youth smiled a beaming smile and ran the deliver the command.

Aerin found BlackWing among the other horse in a large holding pen, as she approached so did him and nuzzled at the outstretched hand. Aerin leaned in close to his head near his ear and whispered. "I must ask you one last time to deliver me into battle, above all things I have know in my life you are my constant, my friend and as a friend I ask this favour of you". BlackWing, began to pour at the ground, head tossing in eagerness, after all it is what he was breed for, he could sense the coming war, the apprehension and fear of those around him, even Aerin's disquiet. BlackWing is a leader among horses, his high pitched whine set the rest to summon energy and prance with light feet.

"Now let me ready you", she said as she opened the pen allowing BlackWing freedom. Aerin would take time to place BlackWings chest armour, saddle and bridle about him, forever grateful to him for protecting her life.

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

~~ Lord Thurion Heavenshield ~~​

[SIZE=10.5pt]Standing by a newly lit fire to warm her body after bathing, Coci dressed in black body suit, changed from the more normal suit she wears, more leather based and better for the body to breathe. She would wear no other weapon except for her lightsaber as with most Jedi, they had other weapons at their disposal, the Force. She had seen the weapons of the Valkyri, crafted with precision are their swords, the shields a fair defence against their opposition and in Midvinter they are formidable, but not against a lightsaber. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]Her mind had already began to prepare, setting her focus on the coming battle, clearing her mind of all distractions, of the world outside this place. But not everything is removed, and nor would it ever be. Thurion, at the forefront of her thoughts. He is about to stand alongside his father in a time of family need, family purpose and a continuing family legend. Thurion is now very much a part of it, he may not like it, she suspected as much, but his is the heir. Moreover, he is her life, and on this day, the two will be tested once more, as Jedi and as life partners. Either of them may not see the coming night. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]They are in the hands of the Fates.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]Her head turned as she heard Mannfreyd’s voice outside the tent, he spoke to Thurion but she did not question, until Thurion told her of a present he had for her. She looked at him quizzically as she moved to the held back flap of the tent.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]“A present?”,[/SIZE][SIZE=10.5pt] she asked as she bowed her head to move under the flap, wondering what he could have possibly found for her. On the ground outside are two large chests, one of which she recognised as that of Thurion’s armour chest, the other unknown to her. Coci smiled back as he told her to open it, she smiled only because he did but she held wonder in her mind and as she lifted the latch and then the lid, she held breath at the contents. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]Her black eyes darting over the suit of armour within, new and shinning, forged with the hard hands of Midvinter, it is art, and it is perfect. She reached down and took up a piece of the arm guard and examined the craftsmanship, before she looked into the eyes of her love and smiled. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=10.5pt]“You did this?”,[/SIZE][SIZE=10.5pt] she asked, of course knowing the answer, “It is magnificent .. .. as you are”. In truth Coci did not know what to say for find words to express her thanks to him. She placed the arm guard back in the chest. Coci walked to Thurion, her hand reaching up to his face cupping in before she kissed him. [/SIZE]

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Thurion let out a chuckle. "Me? Goodness, no! I'm a carpenter, not a blacksmith", he teased before their lips met. "But I told my father that if I am to bring the love of my life and future mother of his grandchildren to Midvinter and ask her to go to war, then she should look the part of a Valkyri warrior." He put his arms around her and held her tight, letting their bodies share each other's heat and tender touch. Thurion then opened the remaining chest to find his family heirloom in the form of the ancestral armour only kings and princes had worn before him. Alongside the suit of armour was the sword Snowfall, a legendary blade according to his father, now reforged and reinforced with phrik steel thanks to a certain Jorus Merrill.

"Here, let me help you", he told Coci as he began to armour her up, piece by piece. Every leather strap he made sure to tighten, but it was hardly necessary as the craftmanship of Midvinter's best blacksmiths fit her perfectly, its plates interlocking without hinderance. A few minutes later she was stood in her brand new suit of armour, looking more ready than ever to go to war. "How does it feel? I told dad to make sure it would be light enough." He tugged at the various plates and straps to make sure one last time that nothing was out of place. He then pulled her close to place his lips upon hers yet again before turning to don his own suit of armour.

[member="Coci Sinopi"]

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

~~ Lord Thurion Heavenshield ~~​

​

Although Coci has worn armour before mainly on mission or more recently on Shri-Tal, the Silver Jedi armour is made for the best of materials known in the galaxy, which serve the purpose of defence against powerful weapons, Jedi face daily. The Valkyri Warmaiden Armour is essentially the same, built for protection of the vital areas of the body, even though the metal may be less effective against sabers and blaster by comparison, it is strong.

Raising her arms in the air, so Thurion could slip the leather brigandine over her head Coci immediately felt the weight of it, the attached cuirass and back plate he fitted into position on her chest, making sure it was in place before continuing the fitting. The faulds sat over the culet and formed a shirt around her waist and hips, each piece fastened with leather strapping. She felt like a puppet in his hands, as he pulled them tight, her body twisting and jolting to his command.

However, she ‘bowed’ to his knowledge of such things and remained still for the fitting. Thurion slip the spaulders to her shoulders before placing the rerebrace and vambrace which held a half gauntlet and clipped every piece in place. With one last check of the straps he asked how it felt, before taking her in his arms once more and placing a loving touch of his lips on hers, before proceeding to fit his own armour.

Coci moved around the area twisting her body allowing the armour to form to her shape, she must have looked an odd sight to the onlooking Valkyri considering how they towered over her, she a child in their eyes. She stretched out her legs to test the flexibility and noted there was no hinderance to her movement at all.

“It feels like a glove, so light .. strike me with a sword”, she asked with a broad smile, wanting to test the integrity of it, as she looked around for a willing volunteer. Then her eyes fell on a cape still in the chest. Coci lifted it out and held it high, before placing it around her shoulders to fasten in place.

“How do I look?”, she asked turning to Thurion standing nearby. But her eyes widened as he stood tall and commanding in the royal armour. How do I look!? He looks incredible!

Immediately Coci walked over to him and began inspecting his armour, lifting his arms this way and that and checking out every possible chink and making sure all plates are secured in place. She also allowed herself to admire the mastery of it, the finery of the Smiths with design of majesty and strength. She had never seen him in it, until this day.

Coci circled him, looking him over, “You should grow your hair long, in the way of the Valkyri”, she had not failed to notice the propensity for long hair in this wonderful culture. “It would make you look even more handsome than you already are”. She smiled up into his face, meaning every word of it.