You
walk through the sliding doors that divide the Banquet Hall from the area where
guests rent rooms and your eyes fall upon the following sight: The hall is
decorated for a wedding, beautiful white ribbons and flowers in riotous bloom
everywhere, an arch of honeysuckle and ivy near the altar, tall gleaming candles
everywhere, there are twinkle lights strung in the lower branches adding to the
fairy ambiance. Chairs, set in neat rows (each row is a little off from the
other so no person is unable to see ahead of them), fill out the rear area of
the Banquet Hall.
The
aisle between the chairs is laid with sand, to resemble that of the forest
pathways. Around the perimeter of the room, large potted trees and plants are
spread out, giving the room a forest look. The aisle comes to a stop at the end
of a bridge, which goes over some bluish material that resembles water. The
bridge is made out of wooden plants from trees long dead, as those who are of
the Druid profession would easily tell. The "path" continues on the
other side of the bridge and through a flowered trellis that holds beautiful
forest flowers in full bloom, their heady scent filling the room.
At the end of the pathway is a raised dais on which stands the podium and necessary equipment for the ceremony. Surrounding this clearing are several more potted trees and plants. To complete this forest "illusion" is the faintest sounds that resemble that of what is heard while in the forest. The sound is so faint that one might think it is their mind playing tricks on them rather than actually hearing the sounds. ((Significance: Alyysssa is the Druidess of the Grove and Antimus is a Ranger - both of whom love and protect the forest. The water under the bridge signifies the troubles that the couple has been though - such as Antimus's recent kidnapping by the Vile. The bridge over the water signifies that they will be leaving their troubles behind. The pathway is the path they have traveled down and will continue to travel during their life together.))
Jeyna. The officiating druid looks up and turns to face the room and smiles at Antimus. Antimus smiles back kinda nervously. His legs start to get tired. The guests fidget, waiting for the start of the wedding.
Silverfang_Moon_Dog the Flower Person walks in wearing a tall light violet top hat with a wide black band near the brim, a scruffy brow toupe with curls juts out from under the hat. He wears a matching violet jacket with long tails highlighted with black buttons and cumber bun. He wears a shirt underneath with white Frills jutting out around the neck and sleeves of the jacket. He's wearing a gold chain and several gold rings. For a Visual image picture Willy Wonka meets Austin Powers, or rather something that looks like the end result of a fashion war between the two. He also wears an Amethyst Ribbon around his neck and carries a basket of pale lavender rose petals. Silverfang_trots down the aisle leaving petals behind as he goes down the aisle
Riah enters and stops a short ways from the altar on the left. Shae Crystalthorn follows Riah and stops to her right, then Kazrellian follows Shae in slowly, stopping to the right of her as they reach the front. Then Aragon the ringbearer follows Shae and stops next to Antimus
Snow_ bats his tail in excitement and looks at Aly with a big tear in his big eyes then wipes it with his paw. Antimus waits at the bridge. Aragon nudges Antimus's leg, putting hairs on the clean trousers. Antimus takes another deep breath.
Alyysssa tucks an arm into Gebhart's, he nods to Aly and smiles as Guardian_Milka begins the ceremonial walk behind the alter. Alyysssa waits for the cue, dancing in place. Gebhart just shakes his head and smiles, figures Aly's allowed to dance if she wants. Antimus hopes she doesn't slip on those heels.
Aragon has an itch....but....can't.....scratch!!
Alyysssa sniggles, watching the wolfpup. Antimus smiles and relaxes some, hearing the laugh. Jeyna moves to her place at the altar. Darkmoor_Runebane scratches at the back of his neck standing off to the right by Anti, looks to Aly then to Milka. Guardian_Milka casts the Circle shaking his head to free it of things
Alyysssa nods to Geb - “It's time”. Gebhart nods Alyysssa looks down to the front where all the friends are gathered and begins her walk. Shae Crystalthorn smiles to Aly. Gebhart walks with Aly, leading her down the aisle. Luxuria stands as the Bride heads up the aisle
Alyysssa wears a floor-length wedding gown is made of gossamer silk in an antique white colour with a V-cut bodice, the creamy breasts threatening to spill over the top, and long flowing sleeves that come to a point over the back of her wrists. The dress gathers at the slender waist with an inverted V, embroidered with silver, dividing the skirt into two panels, cascading down to her ankles in a whisper of soft fabric studded with tiny sparkling amethysts, which glitter over the gown like the morning dew.
The guests all stand. Silverfang_Moon_Dog pants waiting on the left. Antimus turns to look back at her, smiles, then looks forward again
Alyysssa moves towards the groom, watching him through the foam of silken veil attached to the circlet of wildflowers, stepping delicately - her feet covered (for once!) in silken slippers, a thin band of sparkling amethysts around one ankle. She can’t stop smiling... the heart can only hold so much
Gebhart
stops with Aly, before Antimus. Alyysssa
smiles blindingly and whispers “thank you Gebby”.
Antimus turns his head to look at Aly, looking down then back up into her
eyes. She smiles mistily at Antimus.
He smiles bigly. Taking his
arm, she looks at the bridge. Antimus
looks that way, as well. Alyysssa whispers "ready?" Antimus
whispers "I've always been ready".
He smiles to her again, a twinkle in his eyes, her own smile answers him.
Darkmoor_Runebane glances at Aly . o 0 ( Wow! ) clears his throat and looks
forward. Alyysssa sparkles. Antimus
shimmers. Silverfang just pants
happily.
Jeyna and Guardian_Milka smile and say to the wedding party “Welcome.”
Guardian_Milka speaks in a clear voice. “ 'Oh Great Spirit we ask for your Blessing on this our ceremony.” Jeyna’s voice rings out clearly. “Oh Goddess, we ask for your blessing on this, our ceremony.” Guardian_Milka says “Let the four directions be honoured that power and radiance might enter our circle for the good of all beings.” Guardian_Milka says “With the blessing of the great bear of the starry heavens and the deep and fruitful earth, we call upon the powers of the North. With the blessing of the great stag in the heat of the chase and the inner fire of the sun, we call upon the powers of the South. With the blessing of the salmon of wisdom who dwells within the sacred waters of the pool, we call upon the powers of the West. With the blessing of the hawk of dawn soaring in the clear pure air, we call upon the powers of the East.” Jeyna says “May the harmony of our circle be complete.”
Guardian_Milka says “We stand upon this Holy Earth and in the Face of Heaven to witness the Sacred Rite of Marriage between Antimus and Alyysssa. Just as we come together as family and friends so we ask for the Greater Powers to be present here within our Circle. May this Sacred Union be filled with their Holy Presence. By the power vested in me I invoke the God of Love whose name is Aengus mac Og to be present in this sacred Place. In his name is Love declared.” Jeyna says “By the power vested in me, I invoke the Goddess of the Bright Flame whose name is Brigid to be present in this Sacred Place. In Her name, is Peace declared.” Guardian_Milka says “In the name of the Ancestors whose Traditions we honour.” Jeyna says “In the name of those who gave us Life, may we all unite in Love.”
Antimus and Alyysssa walk across the bridge and stop in front of the altar.
Jeyna says “The joining together of Man and Woman in the Sacred Rite of Marriage brings together great forces from which may flow the seeds of future generations to be nurtured within the womb of Time. Within every Masculine nature lies the Feminine, within every Feminine nature lies the Masculine. The interplay of Masculine and Feminine forces when flowing freely in a union based upon true love finds many expressions.” Guardian_Milka says “This union is truly Holy.”
Jeyna says “Goddess to God, and God to Goddess.”
Guardian_Milka says “Priestess to Priest, and Priest to Priestess.”
Alyysssa says “Woman to Man”
Antimus says “Man to woman”
Kazrellian says “Mother to son, and son to mother”
Shae_Crystalthorn says “Daughter to Father,”
Riah says “Father to Daughter,”
Aragon . o O ( Sister to brother )
Aragon . o O ( and brother to sister )
Alyysssa smiles bigger and Antimus smiles too
Guardian_Milka asks “Who walks the Path of the Moon to stand before Heaven and declare her Sacred Vows?” Alyysssa says “I do”
Jeyna asks “Who walks the Path of the Sun to stand upon this Holy Earth and declare his Sacred Vows?” Antimus says “I do”
Guardian_Milka asks “Antimus and Alyysssa you have walked the Circles of the Sun and Moon, will you now walk together the Circle of Time, traveling through the Elements and the Seasons?” Antimus and Alyysssa say in unison “We will.” Guardian_Milka asks “Will your love survive the harsh fires of change?” Antimus and Alyysssa reply as one voice “It will.” Guardian_Milka says “Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Fire in this the place of Summer. May your home be filled with warmth.”
Jeyna asks “Will your love survive the ebb and flow of feeling?” Alyysssa and Antimus reply together “It will.” Jeyna says “Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Water in this the place of autumn. May your life together be filled with love.”
Guardian_Milka asks “Will your love survive the times of stillness and restriction?” Alyysssa and Antimus reply as one “It will.” Guardian_Milka says “Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Earth in this the place of Winter. May your union be strong and fruitful.”
Jeyna asks “Will your love survive the clear light of Day?” Antimus and Alyysssa reply as one “It will.” Jeyna says “Then accept the Blessing of the Element of Air in this the Place of spring. May your marriage be blessed by the Light of every new Dawn.”
Jeyna says “All things in Nature are circular - night becomes day, day becomes night, and night becomes day again. The moon waxes and wanes and waxes again. There is spring, summer, autumn, winter and then the spring returns. These things are part of the Great Mysteries. Antimus & Alyysssa, do you bring your symbols of these Great Mysteries of Life?” Antimus and Alyysssa reply as one “We do.”
Guardian_Milka asks “Do you still seek to enter this ceremony?” Antimus replies for the couple “Yes, we seek to enter.” Guardian_Milka says “In times past it was believed that the human soul shared characteristics with all things divine. It is this belief which assigned virtues to the cardinal directions; East, South, West and North. It is in this tradition that a blessing is offered in support of this ceremony.” Alyysssa replies for the couple “Yes, we seek to enter.”
Guardian_Milka says “Blessed be this union with the gifts of the East. Communication of the heart, mind, and body Fresh beginnings with the rising of each Sun. The knowledge of the growth found in the sharing of silences.”
Antimus grins, can't help it
Jeyna says “Blessed be this union with the gifts of the South. Warmth of hearth and home, the heat of the heart's passion The light created by both to lighten the darkest of times.”
“Blessed be this union with the gifts of the West. The deep commitments of the lake, the swift excitement of the river, the refreshing cleansing of the rain, the all-encompassing passion of the sea.”
Guardian_Milka says “Blessed be this union with the gifts of the North Firm foundation on which to build Fertility of the fields to enrich your lives A stable home to which you may always return.” “Each of these blessings from the four cardinal directions emphasizes those things which will help you build a happy and successful union. Yet they are only tools. Tools which you must use together in order to create what you seek in this union.” Guardian_Milka says “I bid you look into each others eyes.” Aragon has a confused wolf look to his features Antimus turns and looks into Alyysssa's eyes
Guardian_Milka asks “Will you cause her pain?” Antimus replies “I may” Guardian_Milka asks “Is that you intent?” Antimus replies “No” Alyysssa smiles at Antimus. Guardian_Milka turns to Alyy and asks “Will you cause him pain?” Alyysssa replies “Ugh… probably so.” Antimus smiles and laughs softly. There is a stir as the guest chuckle and smile at one another, Alyysssa smiles cheekily and Kazrellian smirks a lil at the ‘ugh’. Guardian_Milka suppress a smile and continues "Is that your intent?" Alyysssa replies “No, never.” Guardian_Milka asks “Will you share each other's pain and seek to ease it?” Antimus and Alyysssa replies together “Yes” Guardian_Milka says “And so the binding is made. Join your hands.” Antimus takes Aly's hand and raises it Guardian_Milka drapes the first cord is draped across the bride and grooms hands.
Jeyna smiles at Alyysssa and asks. "Will you share his laughter?" Alyysssa says “I will” Jeyna turns to Antimus, "And will you share her laughter?” Antimus says “Always” Jeyna says “Will both of you look for the brightness in life and the positive in each other?” Antimus and Alyysssa say “Yes.” Darkmoor_Runebane straightens and gazes on solemnly. Silverfang_Moon_Dog pants Jeyna says “And so the binding is made.” And she drapes the second chord across the couple’s hands.
Guardian_Milka asks “Will you burden him?” Snow_ holds his breath again Alyysssa replies “I may” Guardian_Milka asks “Is that your intent?” Alyysssa replies “No” Guardian_Milka asks Antimus “Will you burden her?” Antimus replies “I may” Guardian_Milka asks “Is that your intent?” Antimus replies “No” He asks the couple “Will you share the burdens of each so that your spirits may grow in this union?” They reply “Yes” Guardian_Milka says “And so the binding is made.” And he drapes the third chord across the couple’s hands.
Jeyna asks “Alyysssa, will you share his dreams?” She replies “I will” Jeyna asks “Antimus, will you share her dreams?” He replies “Yes” Jeyna asks the couple “Will you dream together to create new realities and hopes?” Antimus says “We will” Alyysssa nods nods Jeyna says “And so the binding is made.” She drapes the fourth chord across the couple’s hands and Antimus smiles again
Guardian_Milka asks “Will you cause her anger?” Antimus replies “I may” “Is that your intent?” Antimus replies “No.” Guardian_Milka asks “Will you cause him anger?” Alyysssa replies “I might” Antimus shakes his head, doubting that. Guardian_Milka asks “Is that your intent?” Alyysssa replies “No” then smiles at Antimus Guardian_Milka asks “Will you take the heat of anger and use it to temper the strength of this union?” Wizo_Reesa dabs at a tear as it slides down her cheek. As one voice, Alyysssa and Antimus reply “We will.” Guardian_Milka says “And so the binding is made” and drapes the fifth chord across the couple’s hands.
Jeyna asks “Will you honor him?” Alyysssa replies “Yes” Jeyna asks Antimus “Will you honor her?” Antimus replies “Yes” Jeyna asks the couple “Will you seek to never give cause to break that honor?” Antimus replies “We shall never do so.” Alyysssa agrees “Never.” Jeyna says “And so the binding is made.” She drapes the sixth and final chord across the hands of the couple.
Guardian_Milka ties the chords together while saying: "The knots of this binding are not formed by these chords but instead by your vows. Either of you may drop the chords, for as always, you hold in your own hands the making of breaking of this union" Once the chords are tied together, Guardian_Milka removes them from the couple’s hands and places them upon the altar.
Aragon steps between the two and arches his back, raising the rings higher Alyysssa smiles at the wolfpup Guardian_Milka instructs “Then before all present, speak your words.” Antimus takes the smaller ring from Aragon and slides it onto Alyysssa's finger. Alyysssa looks at Antimus. Speaking in a clear voice that quivers with love for Alyysssa, Antimus says “Today, Alyysssa Whitewolf, I join my life to yours, not merely as your husband but as your friend, your lover, and your confidant. Let me be the shoulder you lean on, the rock on which you rest, the companion of your life. With you I will walk my path from this day forward. Accept in freedom this circle of gold as a token of my vows. With it I pledge my love, my strength and my friendship. I bring thee joy now and forever. I vow in the face of Heaven that through you I will honour all women.” He smiles into her eyes.
Alyysssa smiles and takes Anti's hand in her's, putting the silver dragon ring onto his finger. She looks at Antimus and speaks to him, her voice quivering with love and emotion. Antimus smiles to her as she speaks. “I wrote some pretty words for you. I meant them too.. But I want to tell you.. just from my heart what I promise you. Right now, I'm shaking with emotion, hearing your words. Because I know you mean them..” Antimus blinks back a tear and smiles more. Alyysssa continues, her eyes sparkling with love and unshed tears. “I am - truly blessed... I promise to love you... and honor you... and please you as much as you will allow me to. My love for you still grows daily, though I know not how it could be more. From the moment I first looked into your eyes and saw what could be, I have been yours.” Alyysssa’s voice quivers with emotion as she says. “I promise to love you.... Forever and Always ... my heart is in Your Hands. Accept in freedom this circle of gold as a token of my vows. With it I pledge my love, my strength and my friendship. I bring thee joy now and forever. I vow upon this Holy Earth that through you I will honour all men.” Alyysssa smiles to Antimus.
Darkmoor_Runebane take a lighted taper and offers it to Antimus. Antimus says “In the name of Aengus mac Og, I bring you the light of my love.” Antimus takes the taper Kazrellian smiles and hands Aly a lighted taper. Alyysssa smiles at Kaz and takes the light. Alyysssa says “In the name of Brighid, I bring you the warmth of my heart.” Alyysssa lights the Candle with Antimus’s. Antimus lights a single candle with his and Aly’s taper. Guardian_Milka says “May the warmth and the light of your union be blessed.”
Guardian_Milka
asks “Do you swear upon the Sword of Justice to keep sacred your
vows?” The couple replies solemnly “We swear.” Guardian_Milka asks “Do
you swear upon the Pain of Blood to keep sacred your vows?” Alyysssa holds out
her right hand. Antimus holds out his right hand
Guardian_Milka pulls out the ornamental dagger, a long slender solid gold
one at that, and slices Alyysssa's and then Antimus's palms very carefully and
gently. Antimus twitches a little.
Edena_of_Neith. goes dead solemn Alyysssa
blinks. Belak_Krin silently nods in approval
Alyysssa presses her palm to Antimus's. Antimus presses his palm
against Alyysssa's Aldrath blinks
in surprise at that bit.
Guardian_Milka speaks in a clear voice “May you be forever bound by Blood, by Vow. . I now pronounce what was once Two is now One in the eyes of those present and the Ancient Ones who honor us with their blessings.”
Jeyna speaks in a voice that is strong “Beneficent Spirits and Souls of our Ancestors, accept the union of your children. Help them, guide them, protect and bless their home and the children born of their union. May their life together reflect the harmony of all life in its perfect union. May they work together in times of ease and times of hardship, knowing that they are truly blessed. From this time forth you walk together along Life's Path; may your way be blessed.”
Guardian_Milka says “It is the hour of recall. As the fire dies down let it be re-lit in your hearts. May your memories hold what the eye and ear have gained. Let us all thank the Powers of Love and Peace for their presence within this Sacred Place. Let us offer the words that unite all Druids: Grant, O God or Goddess, thy Protection And in Protection, Strength And in Strength, Understanding And in Understanding, Knowledge And in Knowledge, The Knowledge of Justice And in the Knowledge of Justice, the Love of it And in the Love of it, The Love of all Existence And in the Love of all Existence, the Love of the Gods or Goddesses and all Goodness.”
Jeyna says “Let the spirits of the Four Directions be thanked for their blessings. In the name of the hawk of dawn and of the element air, we thank the powers of the East. In the name of the salmon of wisdom and the element of water we thank the powers of the West. In the name of the great stag and of the element of fire, we thank the powers of the South. In the name of the great bear of the starry heavens and of the element of earth, we thank the powers of the North. May the world be filled with Harmony and Light.”
Alyysssa keeps smiling. Antimus does too, lost in Alyysssa's eyes. She wriggles her fingers in his. Antimus smirkles
Guardian_Milka looks at the group assembled "Let everyone here hold hands and repeat these words in your heart: We swear by peace and love to stand Heart to heart and hand in hand . Mark O Spirit and hear us now Confirming this Sacred Vow.” Alyysssa . o O ( heart to heart and hand in hand ) Edena_of_Neith. places his hands together, bows his head, and does as Milka requested Antimus just smiles dreamily, the words already there Riah repeats after Milka. Maena lays her hands over each other on the chest
Guardian_Milka breaks the silence by saying “This Sacred Rite of Marriage ends in peace, as in peace it began. Let us withdraw, holding peace and love in our hearts until we meet again. . Now time for speeches first Darky the Best Thing, and then Me as I refuse to be quiet heh.” Kazrellian kinda juggles the taper and the bouquet and puts her hands together to pray. Alyysssa laughs and waits. Jaya_Ballath spaces a moment.. Borus_Skullclacker smiles and bows his head in prayer Alyysssa looks at Milka Shae_Crystalthorn clasps her hands together Jeyna unwinds the circle
Alyysssa muses “There was supposed to be a kiss somewhere!”
Guardian_Milka winks at Alyysssa Jeyna says “Alyysssa, and Antimus, you may kiss to seal this union.” Darkmoor_Runebane turns to Look at Aly and Antimus
Alyysssa grins Antimus laughs softly and pulls Aly into a loooooong kiss
Guardian_Milka says “Come now, Kiss while DArky is speaking, he is longwinded you won't miss much heh....” Alyysssa melts against Antimus, kissing legally!! Alyysssa laughs in delight. Snow_ claps his paws together Adept_Raistlant cheers!! Darkmoor_Runebane smirks at Milka and looks to the couple to offer a blessing is his own words. Edena_of_Neith. raises his arm in a silent tribute, a salute to the triumph of love, the eternal vows.
Darkmoor_Runbane says “It has been an honor to be here this night gathered with friends and, some I think of as being family, and a few misc. others. On this blessed eve I wish to give my blessings to you both as you enter into this sacred circle. So here goes eh? hehe. May the powers above find favor with you, may your lives together be filled with grace, bounty, mutual admiration love and respect. As two hearts begin to beat as one may you find greater strength drawing from and giving to the one you call beloved as you step along that misty path called the future. Though you may stumble and yes falter along that great journey together may you never fail in reaching your Joined destiny arm in arm. May the hand of fate be generous to you both, may hope and faith comfort you in good times and ill times may honor and virtue guard you from any who seek to do ye harm. By the winds of the east may ye be three times blest, by the fires of the south may ye be three times blest, by the waters of the west may ye be three times blessed by the earth of the north may ye be thee times bless by the spirit of the zenith, dark and light may ye be three times blessed.”
Alyysssa asks in surprise “Speeches?” Antimus laughs Jeyna moves from the altar and makes her way off to the side. Foxfer cheers quietly Kazrellian smiles listening to Darky and awaits her turn Alyysssa exclaims happily “Darkmoor!!” Antimus smiles to Darky and bows a little. Alyysssa says “That’s beautiful” Wizo_Reesa applauds Darky's words. Antimus says “We are honoured by your words.” Alyysssa hugs Darky. Alyysssa agrees with her husband “Very honored”. Edena_of_Neith. applauds for Darkmoor. Adept_Raistlant dances in his chair and Luxuria stands and applauds the whole event. Aldrath shifts his wings and furls them more comfortably. Kazrellian applauds Darky.
Guardian_Milka says “Marriage is a symbol of two souls whose....love (says it like a foreign word to him, with a hint of longing). Gives them the desire to spend all their time, knowing there will always be one other at home for them. Now, for love I am but a spectator, but Time and Eternity, are two concepts I understand, and live with. Time...I have heard it called a river, but its flow is but one way, and No fighting can change its course for long, no matter what Chronmancer think. It is more the rapids on which life flows, the ability to deny it for a period is possible, but to deny it forever is beyond the gods themselves” Guardian_Milka says “Alyysssa and Antimus have chosen, with grave minds, to spend all their time in the exclusive companionship of the other.” Alyysssa smiles at Milka. Jeyna bows her head in silent prayer to the Gods and Goddesses. Guardian_Milka says “Now that is only half the equation to the Marriage, that I have much to say on. Eternity....often denotes a negative span of time, in which nothing happens, but in truth is yet another....term for Time. Eternity...is a reference to infinite, the amount of time that is supposed to be around.” Antimus grins Alyysssa nods, hearing him
Kazrellian says “There’s not really much I could say...Alyysssa is my closest and most loved friend, and antimus is also, godparents to my children, and my strength through all my sorrows, if they have one tenth of the joy I wish for them, then they shall have a tiny apart of the bliss they deserve.”
Guardian_Milka
raises his voice and calls out “Now then, Huge Party at the grove...well its
more a reception I guess, but still everyone is invited I do believe.”
Antimus says “Yes, the grove is open to everyone who wants to come for
refreshments and the party”
And then the Wedding Party and Guests headed for the Grove where chaos reigned for the next several hours filled with wine and presents and hugs and smiles and a wonderful celebration!
