Rhys and Ronin, chapter 1
Dateline: A large clearing in the forest.A few tables and chairs have been set up, along with some flowers. A wedding is about to take place. It looks to be a small ceremony, though, with very few people attending. A shinto priest waits at one end of the clearing, in front of an alter to certain gods.
Korunue was in her room at the Inn, having chased Ronin out. She is actually in the bathroom attached to the room, and Aldrea is helping her into a VERY formal blue dress that Aldrea had bought her the day before. Sinai is also there, helping Korunue as best she can. Ronin is outside in the clearing, poking around. The robes he is wearing are similar to the normal ones he wears, if not the same. He possibly had some new ones tailored for this occasion. His swords are still at his side, the scabbards polished and the silver writing on the side, gleaming. He reaches inside his shirt and pats the daggers there, just in case.
Sinai had asked several animals she's grown to know and respect to come as wedding guests--along with her wolf pack, telling them explicitly not to harm the small animals or any other wedding guests there. Korunue gets her dress on alright, and Aldrea zips it up for her, smiling. Niether of them speak, and Korunue is getting jitters. She smiles nervously at Sinai as she puts on a blue lace veil. "You look beautiful" Aldrea remarks, and Korunue swallows nervously.Ronin glances up at Korunue's window and starts pacing aorund the clering. He is bored out of his wits, just waiting for her to hurry up and get down to the clearing. Surely it didnt take this long to get dressed, not even for a wedding.
Sinai nods in agreement with Aldrea. "Aye, ye are." She hands her the bouquet of flowers for her to hold.
Korunue takes the bouquet, and takes a deep breath. She turns to her friends. "Sinai... Aldrea.... I don't think i can do this... what if I mess it up? What if I say something wrong?"
Aldrea places a hand on Korunue's shoulder. "You'll do fine, Korunue. No matter what, as long as you say 'I do', it'll be alright."
Sinai shakes her head. "Ye willna mess it up. Dinna concentrate on vows. Just concentrate on how happy he makes ye, and how wonderful it will be to be wed tae him."
Ronin stops and glances up at the window again, then resumes his pacing. He also glances towards the woods occasionally, as if expecting something to happen. Korunue takes a deep breath. "Wonderful. Right. How wonderful." She smiles. "ok... let's go." She smiles at Aldrea, in her fancy green lacy dress and sans sword belt. Sinai follows her out, in her own beautiful dress, though not as beautiful as Korunue's dress. Ronin sighs and paces relentlessley, he is slowly making his way towards the spot where he is supposed to meet Korunue.
Korunue goes down the back stairs so that none can see her before Ronin (and of course Aldrea and Sinai). She takes a deep breath, and exits the Inn, heading to the edge of the clearing. Aldrea follows her, checking on her concealed dagger in her dress by her hip, on a loop sewn in for that purpose. Sinai follows slowly, a warm smile on her face as she does so, her sword at her side, shining brilliantly as she had polished it for the past two days. Ronin glances towards the woods again, his ears scanning intently. He ear a noise and whirls around in time to see Korunue appear at the edge of the clearing near the inn. Korunue gives him a weak smile. She takes a deep breath, and takes a step towards the alter and Ronin.
Sinai nods to Ronin. "Dinna b' sae tense, Master Ronin. Tis ye're wedding day. Both yours and Korunue's. *smiling warmly, happily, because her close friend is finally happy" Rhys stood behind the priest.. he was dressed for the occasion his thick silk robe cleaned and golden runic symbols sewn into its chest to its legs.. Rhys was unseen by the priest and by most.. but if you had keen sight you could see the slight glow of rhys eyes in the back ground... Aldrea stands near the edge of the clearing, waiting for Korunue to get up the courage to walk the rest of the distence and start the ceremony. Korunue had always been timid... Ronin nods at Sinai, and smiles at Korunue before making his own way to the altar. He stands there, and turns around to watch Korunue as she walks towards him. Grinning he turns back around to face the priest. HE calmly ignores the glow of Rhys' eyes, hoping Rhys wont try anything, and that Kor wont notice them.
Sinai faintly notices, and whispers within her mind to who she knows is Rhys. Good eve, Rhys. I hope you are here in peace? If so, thank ye for coming
Rhys thought back to Sinai.. "I have my reasons for coming.. for you should not question them." Rhys said his dark red eyes slightly closing to hide them.
Korunue closes her eyes, and takes a deep breath. She opens them, and delibratly forces her trembling legs to move. Once she takes one more step, however, it becomes easier to walk. She makes it to stand by the alter with Ronin. I do not. I am simply thanking ye for being here. Tis a happy occasion. Sinai stands in her designated spot, and smiles warmly to Korunue and Ronin, hoping Korunue will be able to calm her nerves.
Rhys smiled slightly "Me being welcomed is very odd.. Your reasoning of this?" Rhys asked watching the occasion before breathing slightly.. something felt warming about this momment.. memories flooded Rhys skull as he watched.
Tis a wedding, Rhys. It is the joining of two souls in love and matrimony. It is a wonderful occasion, indeed. I only wish I could b' able tae d' the same one day... She almost looks like she's about to cry, not tears of sadness, but tears of joy.
Ronin turns and smiles at Korunue. "You ready?" he whispers to her.
"Ive learned that weddings are a false joining.. they are nothing but tittle.. They do nothing for a couple.. and ive seen it with my own eyes." Rhys said scowling at the feeling of her emotion.. how could she be so happy that two were ruining their lives?
Korunue smiles in return. "I've been ready for weeks" she whispers. She turns to the priest, waiting for him to start. Aldrea smiles at her, preparing a certain spell, and Kit climbs onto her shoulder, wearing a large bow for the occasion.
I have also seen couples die in old age, still loving and caring for one another...You cannot deny that such couples exist. Everyone has their quarrels. Love binds these two together. A wedding is only a physical representation of what has already been done emotionally and spiritually between the two. Sinai thought to Rhys.
Ronin also turns back to the priest, waiting on him to start. He glances up at Rhys's wyws and grimaces for a second. Rhys shook his head at Ronin before looking to Sinai... turning his back and thinking to her once more.. "As i was taught.. a marriage is the binding of each others soul.. If the man is slain so is the woman. And that is why i see it as a waste."
Sinai looks to Ronin and Korunue. It is only m' belief, Rhys. I know ye ha' your own beliefs, and I willna argue wi' ye on this day. But let m' be happy for m' friend. Please. She nods in partial agreement. Perhaps, since I have heard of the man dying, and the woman dying soon after because of a broken heart, but why condemn them before they are able to be happy?
"Because happyness is a false promise." Rhys said aloud toward the group of people.. before slipping back to speak to Sinai.. "And no one should have to live a false life" With that, Rhys slipped off into the woods. Sinai sighs slowly, and smiles once again to Korunue and Ronin, her happiness for them gleaming in her eyes.
The priest shoots a glare to Rhys's receeding back, and raises an eyebrow at Ronin, obviously questioning his choice of guest. He takes a deep breath and begins. "Friends, we are gathered together to observe the union of these two souls- Ronin and Korunue. Wanderer and Raven- such auspicious names. Let the wandering raven be their guide, leading them to happiness forever more, both in this life and the afterlife."
Ronin smiles at the priest and at Korunue, he shuffles nervously a little. Sinai, too, listens to the priest, her hands folded in front of her, happier than she's been in weeks. The priest continues, after a short delay. "Let these two young ones swear their eternal love for one another, and be wed in bliss for eternity." He turns first to Ronin, pausing for effect.Ronin looks up at the priest expectantly, as he continues. Ronin, do you take this woman, Korunue, to be your mate? Do you promise to care for her and her pups, to provide them with food? Do you promise to love her and care for her, and let no ill befall her, until the great divider of Death do tear her from your arms?"
Ronin grins at the preist before nodding and saying. "I do". Sinai's smile broadens.
The priest nods, smiling a little, before turning to the trembling Korunue. "And you, Korunue, do you take this man, Ronin, to be your mate? Do you promise to whelp his pups, and to care for them and raise them correctly? To love him and care for him, and to provide him with anything he so desires, and to keep house for him, until the great divider of Death tears you from his arms?"
Korunue trembles, finding her voice only after a short pause. "I do." Aldrea beams at her. Ronin smiles at Korunue. Sinai beams at Korunue, her face lighting up brilliantly at her words, envious of such a bonding of mates, but only a little bit, her happiness overwhelming.
The priest smiles at her, reassuringly. " Do any here object to this union, having heard their promises?" he waits expectantly. Nobody speaks. After allowing sufficient time for someone to object, the preist breaks into a large grin. "Then I now pronounce you life-mates. May the gods bless this union." Being rather young, he smiles. "you can kiss now" he whispers to them.
Korunue lifts her veil, closing her eyes and turning to Ronin. Ronin grins at the priest, then turns, taking Korunue into his arms and kisses her. A man walks up to the small clearing; he eyes the small company of people, the tables, chairs, the couple kissing. He smiles, staying just out of the clearing, not wanting to intrude on the wedding. He leans on his wooden staff, adjusting the bow on his back. His eyes watch intently as a small tear runs down his right cheek.
Korunue returns his kiss passionatly, enveloped in feelings of pure joy. She does not want the kiss to end... but she must breathe, after all, and after a long while she pulls back, her eyes revealing her happiness. "I love you" she whispers.
Ronin whispers back "I love you too" He grins and lifts Korunue into his arms, smiling at everyone who cares to notice as he takes Korunue up to the room. Korunue leans against Ronin, content at last.
The priest makes a quick offering to the Kami represented on the shrine and turns to the people. He bows and walks off into the forest. Aldrea smiles, letting the spell go. The people are sarenaded with the sounds of tinkling bells, and bright colored flames appear on the tables. She beams, happy for her friend. The stranger smiles, at the happy ceremony. He tilts his head, and is lost in memmories of his past. Sinai smiles warmly, and thanks the animals for coming to the ceremony, and for being so peaceful during it.
Aldrea smiles, as the bells finish pealing. She nods to Kit, who begins to sing. Not a slow, high-pitched song, but a fast-paced jig. Aldrea smiles at Sinai, and begins to dance. Sinai smiles in return to Aldrea, and starts to dance as well, glad to hear such music once again. The stranger blinks out of his memories as a small squirrel skitters past his leg and into the clearing; his gaze follows it, stopping on the group of small animals. He looks up to the woman in the green dress, and then the one in the blue dress. He smiles and walks around the clearing, towards the Inn.
The wolf pack that had gathered smiles in their own wolfish little way, and mingles at the edge of the dancing, watching their Alpha female dance in her Human form, in a dress--something Sinai NEVER, EVER wears unless forced. She is cheerful as she dances, the rhythm of the music, as well as the beat, pushing her on, allowing all of her stress to be exchanged for energy as she dances, the music seemingly taking over her entirely.
Kit finishes her song, and Aldea finishes dancing. She smiles to Sinai, and Kit whistles, and plates appear at the tables. Aldrea sits at a place, and the plate fills with food. The plates will fill themselves with whatever food the person likes. Sinai looks to Aldrea, and gives her thanks for such a pleasant thing she has provided for the guests. The man glances at the strange bit of magic, the calling of plates, and food. He looks around the small of people, thinking of how hungry he was. He looked over at the short distance the Inn was away, and gave a small sigh, as he began his walk towards it again. Aldrea smiles. "'twas the least I could do for Korunue, to take care of the afterwords while she and Ronin consumnate their marriage." she grins.
Sinani looks to the man walking away. "Come. Join us in this merry Wedding feast." She grins to Aldrea. "Aye..." She then looks to her pack, and sees them salivate. "Think we could manage something for a hungry wolf pack, Aldrea?"
The man glances back at the voice. He smiles at the woman, and bows his head "I would not wish to intrude on such a delightful ceremony. I would feal out of place, I know not the bride, nor groom."
Aldrea smiles. "Of course. Kit?" Kit chirps, and a large platter appears on the ground near the pack, filling itself with raw meat. Kit hops onto a table, and the plate nearest to her also fills with raw meat, which she gobbles greedily. Aldrea also begins to eat. She smiles at the man. "Please, come join us. There's food enough for all."
" Tis all right. I noticed ye were here for the ceremony. Ye should stay tae eat. Ye seem famished. " Sinai reassures the man. She finds that several luscious sides of meat have appeared on her plate, along with a side of potatoes and other niceties she loves to eat, all cooked, though.
The man gives a small laugh and smiles. "Well in that case, It would be my honor." He removes the bow from his back, and rests it on the ground, along with his staff, pack, scimitar, waterskin, quiver, bed roll, and a small wooden case. Leaving the longknife on his right hip, he begins to walk to the seat next to the woman in blue. He stops, pulling out a chair. "May I sit here?" he asks, smiling down at her.
"But of course." Sinai smiles, scooting over so he can have room.
Aldrea eats, smiling. She swallows. "They'll be happy together... at least, I hope. Never can tell with Korunue... but they looked happy enough."
Sinai nods. "They shall. I could see it in both o' their eyes...They'll b' together for a long time yet."
The man smiles, and closing his eyes he nods. "Why thank you." He sits himself down, his light chainmail suit making little noise. He waits for the two women to finish, "So..uhm how does this work?" he aks as his plate fills with vegetables of eavry kind, from carrots, to artichokes. He smiles "Oh I see."
Aldrea smiles. "Yes, Kit and I worked it out a while ago. Do you like the spell?"
The man smiles at the woman "Yes, it is very handy, what is the spell's base? The plates?" he asks, trying to sound as if he knows more then he does about magic.
Sinai nods, being polite and using utensils to eat her food, petting her wolf pack on occasion, they having finished their meal already. "Aye. Verra nice."
Aldrea shakes her head. "It's based on a summoning spell... Kit summoned the plates, and the plates summon food from my larder. Rather, my father's larder.. or my sister's, since father died."
The man bows his head at the sound of the deceased "Well, thats amazing, I wish I could use magic." he pauses looking at his plate of food. "I am sorry about your father." he looks back up, giving a reassuring smile as he begins on his plate.
"As am I." Sinai didn't know about her father. "Aye, again thank ye both for the meal." Talking to Kit and to Aldrea.
Aldrea snorts. "Don't be. I and my friend killed him." She continues eating, nonchalontly. Kit looks at her, shrugs, and continues eating.
The man looks back up into the womans eyes. "Well..uhm.." not to sure what to say he gives a small smile "Yes, thank you for the meal..." he glances back to the woman in blue, and again works at his plate.
Sinai blinks a moment, but then lets it go, there having must have been a reason for such action, then goes back to her own meal, eating slowly, occasionally petting her friends the wolves affectionately.
Aldrea nods. "You are welcome." She frowns. "D'arvit... now I've made you uncomfortable... I am sorry." she continues eating.
Sinai shakes her head. "Tis all right, Aldrea. I figure it is a touchy subject, not one to be addressing at a Wedding Feast table." Sagely nod.
The man, after finishing a carrot smiles up to the woman in green "Dont worry. I am okay, just reminds me of something." Not to sure if that was the right thing to say. He pauses then looks over to the woman in blue, then to the wolves. "Are these friends of yourse?" he reaches out to pet one.
Aldrea smiles, eating her food quietly. Kit, finishing her meal, hops down and sniffs the wolves, to see what the heck they are.
The wolves look a little funny at the little dragon Kit, and sniff it in return, to see if it is a nice dragon or not...When Daion reaches out to pet them, they look at him warily, and sniff his hand first, looking up at their Alpha Female, Sinai first for approval.She, of course, gives them approval through her use of the Wolf language, and nods to them that it is all right as well.
Daion pets the wolf, knowingly scratching in spots it should like. After a bit he gives it a smile, and goes back to his food. Aldrea smiles at Kit and the wolves. Kit chirps gleefully. I'm Rosewing. she thinks to the wolves, showing off her new thought-speak ability. Aldrea smiles a little more at Kit.The wolves look a little confused, since Sinai is the only one who has used the Thoughspeak ability with them, and looks to the dragon with curiosity.
The man continues to eat his food, not in any rush he takes his time, savoring every bite or the vegetables he hasnt had in so long. Sinai smiles to her wolf pack, and once her meal is done--dessert and all, having savored every bit of it--she seats herself carefully in the grass with them, having always been a just and fair Alpha female for them, not thinking her any better than them.
Aldrea finishes her food and sits back. She sighs. "So... got any good stories?" she smiles.
Sinai looks to the stranger, not sure if Aldrea was speaking to all, or to the stranger, or to herself. The man glances up to the woman in green. "Me?" he points to himself with whats left of a peice of lettuce.
Aldrea shrugs. "Anybody. Unless you want to hear about me..." she shrugs again. "Stories.. a traditional way to pass an evening."
"Indeed." Sinai nods in agreement. "I dinna mind if we all sit in the grass, but I'm not one to enjoy dresses and dinna care of how they look...I could fetch m' cloak and use it as a blanket."
The man smiles, and looks over to the woman in blue, with the wolves. Aldrea shrugs, and sits on the grass beside Sinai. "Alright. Shall I tell of my life? Or do any of you have a happier tale to tell?"
The man shrugs following the woman in green holding a few vegetable to snack on. "I dont think mine would be any better." He gives a small smile as he sits down on the grass after fetching his things.
"I could just change." Sinai stands once again, looking to her friends, then the wolves, with a smile, forgetting the stranger hasn't even exchanged names, much less shown that he can be completely trusted... "You know of my life, and it is no happy tale."
Aldrea shrugs. "Than shall I tell my own tale? There are some happy elements, some small triumphs..."
Sinai nods. "Sure."
The stranger smiles looking between the two women. "I still do not wish to impose, though I would be glad to listen while I finish."
Sinai nods, smiling cheerfully. "Again, ye're not imposing, Sir."
Aldrea takes a deep breath. "I was born a princess, in a lovely little kingdom. The younger princess. But my father... he held off until I was 9, but his lust could wait no longer." She takes a deep breath. "So I ran away. I stumbled upon a worldgate, and made it to another world. Likely I would have died... but Rosewing here found me sobbing and comforted me." She pats Kit on the head, and Kit climbs into her lap.
Aldrea continues her narritive. "Well, I thought I was a dragon for a few years, living with them... until one day they taught me about those who kill dragons who attack humans. I went to mage school, determined to stop this practice- i thought I could change the attacking dragons by simply talking to them. Thus, I became a dragonslayer." She pauses for effect, looking her audience over, gaugeing their reaction.
The man listens intently, keeping emotion from his face, while he eats his vegies.
Aldrea takes a deep breath and continues. "Well, once I found another princess, a runaway, fighting beside me. Princess Yuki. She became my bodyguard, and my dearest friend. All went well... until I came here. Soon after, I accidentally broke mage rule and timeslid. The punishment would be light, I knew, but it would include a truth serum. And I knew too many secrets- I and my friends would be killed." She pauses for effect once more.
Aldrea continues, after a little bit. "So, there was only one thing left for me to do: die. I had to, to protect my friends. But... some selfish people stopped me. They didn't want me to kill myself. Eventually, I got a mind-wipe... but Yuki was a little lazy about it. They found it, and took away my magic as punishment." She takes a deep breath before continueing. "I knew that my friends would not let me die. So I found a way to slip inside myself. until Korunue got my magic back and forced me out of it."
Aldrea shrugs. "And that's basiclly it... I'm afraid I may have rubbed off on young Korunue... and I seem to be lacking a main purpose anymore." She stands, yawning. "it's late... and I'm sleepy. Fare well all." she heads back to the Inn, no longer feeling much like talking, leaving Sinai and the stranger to talk.
**********************
Korunue awakens, yawning a little. She felt... different. Was it that she was now married? Or just that she had lost her virginity? Or something else entirely? She smiles at Ronin, not wanting to say anything to break the early-morning stillness.
Ronin woke up before Korunue, but was so comfortbale he just closed his eyes and went back to sleep. He is now laying beside her, smiling in his sleep. Korunue looks at him, then is hit with a memory of the last time they awoke like this... she shakes her head to clear the thought out of her mind. Ronin loved her. She loved him. That was all that mattered now. Ronin stirs a little in his sleep, wrapping his arms around Korunue and pulling her close to him. Korunue snuggles up next to Ronin, content. She was married now. It was still a hard concept to grasp for her... she was married, and not a virgin.
Ronin slowly wakes up. He opens his eyes adn smiles at Korunue. "How you feeling?" he says after a moment.
Korunue smiles. "wonderful." she says, really meaning it. "I'm married to my true love."
Ronin smiles and pulls Koruneu up to him before giving her a kiss.Korunue returns his kiss, passionatly. She smiles at him once more, lovesick. Ronin doesnt feel like getting up from the bed, it's so comfortable. "I ca't blieve we're married."
"Neither can I." whispers Korunue.
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Dateline: A large clearing in the forest.A few tables and chairs have been set up, along with some flowers. A wedding is about to take place. It looks to be a small ceremony, though, with very few people attending. A shinto priest waits at one end of the clearing, in front of an alter to certain gods.
Korunue was in her room at the Inn, having chased Ronin out. She is actually in the bathroom attached to the room, and Aldrea is helping her into a VERY formal blue dress that Aldrea had bought her the day before. Sinai is also there, helping Korunue as best she can. Ronin is outside in the clearing, poking around. The robes he is wearing are similar to the normal ones he wears, if not the same. He possibly had some new ones tailored for this occasion. His swords are still at his side, the scabbards polished and the silver writing on the side, gleaming. He reaches inside his shirt and pats the daggers there, just in case.
Sinai had asked several animals she's grown to know and respect to come as wedding guests--along with her wolf pack, telling them explicitly not to harm the small animals or any other wedding guests there. Korunue gets her dress on alright, and Aldrea zips it up for her, smiling. Niether of them speak, and Korunue is getting jitters. She smiles nervously at Sinai as she puts on a blue lace veil. "You look beautiful" Aldrea remarks, and Korunue swallows nervously.Ronin glances up at Korunue's window and starts pacing aorund the clering. He is bored out of his wits, just waiting for her to hurry up and get down to the clearing. Surely it didnt take this long to get dressed, not even for a wedding.
Sinai nods in agreement with Aldrea. "Aye, ye are." She hands her the bouquet of flowers for her to hold.
Korunue takes the bouquet, and takes a deep breath. She turns to her friends. "Sinai... Aldrea.... I don't think i can do this... what if I mess it up? What if I say something wrong?"
Aldrea places a hand on Korunue's shoulder. "You'll do fine, Korunue. No matter what, as long as you say 'I do', it'll be alright."
Sinai shakes her head. "Ye willna mess it up. Dinna concentrate on vows. Just concentrate on how happy he makes ye, and how wonderful it will be to be wed tae him."
Ronin stops and glances up at the window again, then resumes his pacing. He also glances towards the woods occasionally, as if expecting something to happen. Korunue takes a deep breath. "Wonderful. Right. How wonderful." She smiles. "ok... let's go." She smiles at Aldrea, in her fancy green lacy dress and sans sword belt. Sinai follows her out, in her own beautiful dress, though not as beautiful as Korunue's dress. Ronin sighs and paces relentlessley, he is slowly making his way towards the spot where he is supposed to meet Korunue.
Korunue goes down the back stairs so that none can see her before Ronin (and of course Aldrea and Sinai). She takes a deep breath, and exits the Inn, heading to the edge of the clearing. Aldrea follows her, checking on her concealed dagger in her dress by her hip, on a loop sewn in for that purpose. Sinai follows slowly, a warm smile on her face as she does so, her sword at her side, shining brilliantly as she had polished it for the past two days. Ronin glances towards the woods again, his ears scanning intently. He ear a noise and whirls around in time to see Korunue appear at the edge of the clearing near the inn. Korunue gives him a weak smile. She takes a deep breath, and takes a step towards the alter and Ronin.
Sinai nods to Ronin. "Dinna b' sae tense, Master Ronin. Tis ye're wedding day. Both yours and Korunue's. *smiling warmly, happily, because her close friend is finally happy" Rhys stood behind the priest.. he was dressed for the occasion his thick silk robe cleaned and golden runic symbols sewn into its chest to its legs.. Rhys was unseen by the priest and by most.. but if you had keen sight you could see the slight glow of rhys eyes in the back ground... Aldrea stands near the edge of the clearing, waiting for Korunue to get up the courage to walk the rest of the distence and start the ceremony. Korunue had always been timid... Ronin nods at Sinai, and smiles at Korunue before making his own way to the altar. He stands there, and turns around to watch Korunue as she walks towards him. Grinning he turns back around to face the priest. HE calmly ignores the glow of Rhys' eyes, hoping Rhys wont try anything, and that Kor wont notice them.
Sinai faintly notices, and whispers within her mind to who she knows is Rhys. Good eve, Rhys. I hope you are here in peace? If so, thank ye for coming
Rhys thought back to Sinai.. "I have my reasons for coming.. for you should not question them." Rhys said his dark red eyes slightly closing to hide them.
Korunue closes her eyes, and takes a deep breath. She opens them, and delibratly forces her trembling legs to move. Once she takes one more step, however, it becomes easier to walk. She makes it to stand by the alter with Ronin. I do not. I am simply thanking ye for being here. Tis a happy occasion. Sinai stands in her designated spot, and smiles warmly to Korunue and Ronin, hoping Korunue will be able to calm her nerves.
Rhys smiled slightly "Me being welcomed is very odd.. Your reasoning of this?" Rhys asked watching the occasion before breathing slightly.. something felt warming about this momment.. memories flooded Rhys skull as he watched.
Tis a wedding, Rhys. It is the joining of two souls in love and matrimony. It is a wonderful occasion, indeed. I only wish I could b' able tae d' the same one day... She almost looks like she's about to cry, not tears of sadness, but tears of joy.
Ronin turns and smiles at Korunue. "You ready?" he whispers to her.
"Ive learned that weddings are a false joining.. they are nothing but tittle.. They do nothing for a couple.. and ive seen it with my own eyes." Rhys said scowling at the feeling of her emotion.. how could she be so happy that two were ruining their lives?
Korunue smiles in return. "I've been ready for weeks" she whispers. She turns to the priest, waiting for him to start. Aldrea smiles at her, preparing a certain spell, and Kit climbs onto her shoulder, wearing a large bow for the occasion.
I have also seen couples die in old age, still loving and caring for one another...You cannot deny that such couples exist. Everyone has their quarrels. Love binds these two together. A wedding is only a physical representation of what has already been done emotionally and spiritually between the two. Sinai thought to Rhys.
Ronin also turns back to the priest, waiting on him to start. He glances up at Rhys's wyws and grimaces for a second. Rhys shook his head at Ronin before looking to Sinai... turning his back and thinking to her once more.. "As i was taught.. a marriage is the binding of each others soul.. If the man is slain so is the woman. And that is why i see it as a waste."
Sinai looks to Ronin and Korunue. It is only m' belief, Rhys. I know ye ha' your own beliefs, and I willna argue wi' ye on this day. But let m' be happy for m' friend. Please. She nods in partial agreement. Perhaps, since I have heard of the man dying, and the woman dying soon after because of a broken heart, but why condemn them before they are able to be happy?
"Because happyness is a false promise." Rhys said aloud toward the group of people.. before slipping back to speak to Sinai.. "And no one should have to live a false life" With that, Rhys slipped off into the woods. Sinai sighs slowly, and smiles once again to Korunue and Ronin, her happiness for them gleaming in her eyes.
The priest shoots a glare to Rhys's receeding back, and raises an eyebrow at Ronin, obviously questioning his choice of guest. He takes a deep breath and begins. "Friends, we are gathered together to observe the union of these two souls- Ronin and Korunue. Wanderer and Raven- such auspicious names. Let the wandering raven be their guide, leading them to happiness forever more, both in this life and the afterlife."
Ronin smiles at the priest and at Korunue, he shuffles nervously a little. Sinai, too, listens to the priest, her hands folded in front of her, happier than she's been in weeks. The priest continues, after a short delay. "Let these two young ones swear their eternal love for one another, and be wed in bliss for eternity." He turns first to Ronin, pausing for effect.Ronin looks up at the priest expectantly, as he continues. Ronin, do you take this woman, Korunue, to be your mate? Do you promise to care for her and her pups, to provide them with food? Do you promise to love her and care for her, and let no ill befall her, until the great divider of Death do tear her from your arms?"
Ronin grins at the preist before nodding and saying. "I do". Sinai's smile broadens.
The priest nods, smiling a little, before turning to the trembling Korunue. "And you, Korunue, do you take this man, Ronin, to be your mate? Do you promise to whelp his pups, and to care for them and raise them correctly? To love him and care for him, and to provide him with anything he so desires, and to keep house for him, until the great divider of Death tears you from his arms?"
Korunue trembles, finding her voice only after a short pause. "I do." Aldrea beams at her. Ronin smiles at Korunue. Sinai beams at Korunue, her face lighting up brilliantly at her words, envious of such a bonding of mates, but only a little bit, her happiness overwhelming.
The priest smiles at her, reassuringly. " Do any here object to this union, having heard their promises?" he waits expectantly. Nobody speaks. After allowing sufficient time for someone to object, the preist breaks into a large grin. "Then I now pronounce you life-mates. May the gods bless this union." Being rather young, he smiles. "you can kiss now" he whispers to them.
Korunue lifts her veil, closing her eyes and turning to Ronin. Ronin grins at the priest, then turns, taking Korunue into his arms and kisses her. A man walks up to the small clearing; he eyes the small company of people, the tables, chairs, the couple kissing. He smiles, staying just out of the clearing, not wanting to intrude on the wedding. He leans on his wooden staff, adjusting the bow on his back. His eyes watch intently as a small tear runs down his right cheek.
Korunue returns his kiss passionatly, enveloped in feelings of pure joy. She does not want the kiss to end... but she must breathe, after all, and after a long while she pulls back, her eyes revealing her happiness. "I love you" she whispers.
Ronin whispers back "I love you too" He grins and lifts Korunue into his arms, smiling at everyone who cares to notice as he takes Korunue up to the room. Korunue leans against Ronin, content at last.
The priest makes a quick offering to the Kami represented on the shrine and turns to the people. He bows and walks off into the forest. Aldrea smiles, letting the spell go. The people are sarenaded with the sounds of tinkling bells, and bright colored flames appear on the tables. She beams, happy for her friend. The stranger smiles, at the happy ceremony. He tilts his head, and is lost in memmories of his past. Sinai smiles warmly, and thanks the animals for coming to the ceremony, and for being so peaceful during it.
Aldrea smiles, as the bells finish pealing. She nods to Kit, who begins to sing. Not a slow, high-pitched song, but a fast-paced jig. Aldrea smiles at Sinai, and begins to dance. Sinai smiles in return to Aldrea, and starts to dance as well, glad to hear such music once again. The stranger blinks out of his memories as a small squirrel skitters past his leg and into the clearing; his gaze follows it, stopping on the group of small animals. He looks up to the woman in the green dress, and then the one in the blue dress. He smiles and walks around the clearing, towards the Inn.
The wolf pack that had gathered smiles in their own wolfish little way, and mingles at the edge of the dancing, watching their Alpha female dance in her Human form, in a dress--something Sinai NEVER, EVER wears unless forced. She is cheerful as she dances, the rhythm of the music, as well as the beat, pushing her on, allowing all of her stress to be exchanged for energy as she dances, the music seemingly taking over her entirely.
Kit finishes her song, and Aldea finishes dancing. She smiles to Sinai, and Kit whistles, and plates appear at the tables. Aldrea sits at a place, and the plate fills with food. The plates will fill themselves with whatever food the person likes. Sinai looks to Aldrea, and gives her thanks for such a pleasant thing she has provided for the guests. The man glances at the strange bit of magic, the calling of plates, and food. He looks around the small of people, thinking of how hungry he was. He looked over at the short distance the Inn was away, and gave a small sigh, as he began his walk towards it again. Aldrea smiles. "'twas the least I could do for Korunue, to take care of the afterwords while she and Ronin consumnate their marriage." she grins.
Sinani looks to the man walking away. "Come. Join us in this merry Wedding feast." She grins to Aldrea. "Aye..." She then looks to her pack, and sees them salivate. "Think we could manage something for a hungry wolf pack, Aldrea?"
The man glances back at the voice. He smiles at the woman, and bows his head "I would not wish to intrude on such a delightful ceremony. I would feal out of place, I know not the bride, nor groom."
Aldrea smiles. "Of course. Kit?" Kit chirps, and a large platter appears on the ground near the pack, filling itself with raw meat. Kit hops onto a table, and the plate nearest to her also fills with raw meat, which she gobbles greedily. Aldrea also begins to eat. She smiles at the man. "Please, come join us. There's food enough for all."
" Tis all right. I noticed ye were here for the ceremony. Ye should stay tae eat. Ye seem famished. " Sinai reassures the man. She finds that several luscious sides of meat have appeared on her plate, along with a side of potatoes and other niceties she loves to eat, all cooked, though.
The man gives a small laugh and smiles. "Well in that case, It would be my honor." He removes the bow from his back, and rests it on the ground, along with his staff, pack, scimitar, waterskin, quiver, bed roll, and a small wooden case. Leaving the longknife on his right hip, he begins to walk to the seat next to the woman in blue. He stops, pulling out a chair. "May I sit here?" he asks, smiling down at her.
"But of course." Sinai smiles, scooting over so he can have room.
Aldrea eats, smiling. She swallows. "They'll be happy together... at least, I hope. Never can tell with Korunue... but they looked happy enough."
Sinai nods. "They shall. I could see it in both o' their eyes...They'll b' together for a long time yet."
The man smiles, and closing his eyes he nods. "Why thank you." He sits himself down, his light chainmail suit making little noise. He waits for the two women to finish, "So..uhm how does this work?" he aks as his plate fills with vegetables of eavry kind, from carrots, to artichokes. He smiles "Oh I see."
Aldrea smiles. "Yes, Kit and I worked it out a while ago. Do you like the spell?"
The man smiles at the woman "Yes, it is very handy, what is the spell's base? The plates?" he asks, trying to sound as if he knows more then he does about magic.
Sinai nods, being polite and using utensils to eat her food, petting her wolf pack on occasion, they having finished their meal already. "Aye. Verra nice."
Aldrea shakes her head. "It's based on a summoning spell... Kit summoned the plates, and the plates summon food from my larder. Rather, my father's larder.. or my sister's, since father died."
The man bows his head at the sound of the deceased "Well, thats amazing, I wish I could use magic." he pauses looking at his plate of food. "I am sorry about your father." he looks back up, giving a reassuring smile as he begins on his plate.
"As am I." Sinai didn't know about her father. "Aye, again thank ye both for the meal." Talking to Kit and to Aldrea.
Aldrea snorts. "Don't be. I and my friend killed him." She continues eating, nonchalontly. Kit looks at her, shrugs, and continues eating.
The man looks back up into the womans eyes. "Well..uhm.." not to sure what to say he gives a small smile "Yes, thank you for the meal..." he glances back to the woman in blue, and again works at his plate.
Sinai blinks a moment, but then lets it go, there having must have been a reason for such action, then goes back to her own meal, eating slowly, occasionally petting her friends the wolves affectionately.
Aldrea nods. "You are welcome." She frowns. "D'arvit... now I've made you uncomfortable... I am sorry." she continues eating.
Sinai shakes her head. "Tis all right, Aldrea. I figure it is a touchy subject, not one to be addressing at a Wedding Feast table." Sagely nod.
The man, after finishing a carrot smiles up to the woman in green "Dont worry. I am okay, just reminds me of something." Not to sure if that was the right thing to say. He pauses then looks over to the woman in blue, then to the wolves. "Are these friends of yourse?" he reaches out to pet one.
Aldrea smiles, eating her food quietly. Kit, finishing her meal, hops down and sniffs the wolves, to see what the heck they are.
The wolves look a little funny at the little dragon Kit, and sniff it in return, to see if it is a nice dragon or not...When Daion reaches out to pet them, they look at him warily, and sniff his hand first, looking up at their Alpha Female, Sinai first for approval.She, of course, gives them approval through her use of the Wolf language, and nods to them that it is all right as well.
Daion pets the wolf, knowingly scratching in spots it should like. After a bit he gives it a smile, and goes back to his food. Aldrea smiles at Kit and the wolves. Kit chirps gleefully. I'm Rosewing. she thinks to the wolves, showing off her new thought-speak ability. Aldrea smiles a little more at Kit.The wolves look a little confused, since Sinai is the only one who has used the Thoughspeak ability with them, and looks to the dragon with curiosity.
The man continues to eat his food, not in any rush he takes his time, savoring every bite or the vegetables he hasnt had in so long. Sinai smiles to her wolf pack, and once her meal is done--dessert and all, having savored every bit of it--she seats herself carefully in the grass with them, having always been a just and fair Alpha female for them, not thinking her any better than them.
Aldrea finishes her food and sits back. She sighs. "So... got any good stories?" she smiles.
Sinai looks to the stranger, not sure if Aldrea was speaking to all, or to the stranger, or to herself. The man glances up to the woman in green. "Me?" he points to himself with whats left of a peice of lettuce.
Aldrea shrugs. "Anybody. Unless you want to hear about me..." she shrugs again. "Stories.. a traditional way to pass an evening."
"Indeed." Sinai nods in agreement. "I dinna mind if we all sit in the grass, but I'm not one to enjoy dresses and dinna care of how they look...I could fetch m' cloak and use it as a blanket."
The man smiles, and looks over to the woman in blue, with the wolves. Aldrea shrugs, and sits on the grass beside Sinai. "Alright. Shall I tell of my life? Or do any of you have a happier tale to tell?"
The man shrugs following the woman in green holding a few vegetable to snack on. "I dont think mine would be any better." He gives a small smile as he sits down on the grass after fetching his things.
"I could just change." Sinai stands once again, looking to her friends, then the wolves, with a smile, forgetting the stranger hasn't even exchanged names, much less shown that he can be completely trusted... "You know of my life, and it is no happy tale."
Aldrea shrugs. "Than shall I tell my own tale? There are some happy elements, some small triumphs..."
Sinai nods. "Sure."
The stranger smiles looking between the two women. "I still do not wish to impose, though I would be glad to listen while I finish."
Sinai nods, smiling cheerfully. "Again, ye're not imposing, Sir."
Aldrea takes a deep breath. "I was born a princess, in a lovely little kingdom. The younger princess. But my father... he held off until I was 9, but his lust could wait no longer." She takes a deep breath. "So I ran away. I stumbled upon a worldgate, and made it to another world. Likely I would have died... but Rosewing here found me sobbing and comforted me." She pats Kit on the head, and Kit climbs into her lap.
Aldrea continues her narritive. "Well, I thought I was a dragon for a few years, living with them... until one day they taught me about those who kill dragons who attack humans. I went to mage school, determined to stop this practice- i thought I could change the attacking dragons by simply talking to them. Thus, I became a dragonslayer." She pauses for effect, looking her audience over, gaugeing their reaction.
The man listens intently, keeping emotion from his face, while he eats his vegies.
Aldrea takes a deep breath and continues. "Well, once I found another princess, a runaway, fighting beside me. Princess Yuki. She became my bodyguard, and my dearest friend. All went well... until I came here. Soon after, I accidentally broke mage rule and timeslid. The punishment would be light, I knew, but it would include a truth serum. And I knew too many secrets- I and my friends would be killed." She pauses for effect once more.
Aldrea continues, after a little bit. "So, there was only one thing left for me to do: die. I had to, to protect my friends. But... some selfish people stopped me. They didn't want me to kill myself. Eventually, I got a mind-wipe... but Yuki was a little lazy about it. They found it, and took away my magic as punishment." She takes a deep breath before continueing. "I knew that my friends would not let me die. So I found a way to slip inside myself. until Korunue got my magic back and forced me out of it."
Aldrea shrugs. "And that's basiclly it... I'm afraid I may have rubbed off on young Korunue... and I seem to be lacking a main purpose anymore." She stands, yawning. "it's late... and I'm sleepy. Fare well all." she heads back to the Inn, no longer feeling much like talking, leaving Sinai and the stranger to talk.
**********************
Korunue awakens, yawning a little. She felt... different. Was it that she was now married? Or just that she had lost her virginity? Or something else entirely? She smiles at Ronin, not wanting to say anything to break the early-morning stillness.
Ronin woke up before Korunue, but was so comfortbale he just closed his eyes and went back to sleep. He is now laying beside her, smiling in his sleep. Korunue looks at him, then is hit with a memory of the last time they awoke like this... she shakes her head to clear the thought out of her mind. Ronin loved her. She loved him. That was all that mattered now. Ronin stirs a little in his sleep, wrapping his arms around Korunue and pulling her close to him. Korunue snuggles up next to Ronin, content. She was married now. It was still a hard concept to grasp for her... she was married, and not a virgin.
Ronin slowly wakes up. He opens his eyes adn smiles at Korunue. "How you feeling?" he says after a moment.
Korunue smiles. "wonderful." she says, really meaning it. "I'm married to my true love."
Ronin smiles and pulls Koruneu up to him before giving her a kiss.Korunue returns his kiss, passionatly. She smiles at him once more, lovesick. Ronin doesnt feel like getting up from the bed, it's so comfortable. "I ca't blieve we're married."
"Neither can I." whispers Korunue.
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