Nida | FF8 (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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aterat2021-10-26 10:06 pm
skyward_eyes) wrote in aterat2021-10-26 10:06 pm
[Open Mingle Log] A Fall Wedding To Warm The Days
Who: Everyone!
What: Open Log
When: October 20th
Where: The Hunter's Lodge
Warnings: N/A
Notes: This is a mingle log, so people are free to set up their own TLs under it and tag around.
The invitations had gone out in early September, a gentle request penned by hand in one of two sets of handwriting on fine paper with leaves pressed right into it. Given how many had gone out, and all were copied by hand, it was no wonder that they were simple. A date, a time, a location, and a simple note to 'Join Mister Ignis Scientia and Mister Nida Nomura as they join together in marriage.'
Today was that day. In two different areas Ignis and Nida prepared themselves for their big day. Jitters came and went, and at last, at the appointed hour, guests among the guard, the hunters, and any of the non-natives who chose to attend would arrive. They would enter the cleared grove next to the hunter's lodge, where benches were arrayed and decorated with green and gold bows set with reddish-orange flowers. Before it all stood a simply risen wooden arch. Hung from any tree branch that would do were carefully lit lights and silvery stars, all the better to suit the fall night mood of the whole celebration.
Standing at the arch waiting once people had come in and settled stood Captain Khannar of the Guard, in full uniform, looking vaguely amused, clearly meant to officiate the event. Once things were truly ready some music played on a fiddle and a young man (Mono, to those who might know the boy) started down the aisle with a bucket. Every step he tossed a handful of fall leaves out along the path, until he at last reached the end and took a seat. Across from him sat another young man (Yuki, also a non-native), who looked anxious as he fiddled with a small box in his hands.
Then, of course, the music swelled and so entered Ignis and Nida, arm in arm. Sure, it wasn't fully traditional, but why should they ever be asked to come in alone? That wasn't what today was about. They entered together, finely dressed in black accented with their own faint hints of jade green and metal tones about their persons, until they stood before Captain Khannar.
Everything after that was just tradition. Words said, oaths exchanged, meaningful looks. Yuki nervously handing over the box and rings that had been worn even that morning being redonned but with greater meaning. If there were tears amid the crowd or the grooms, would anyone judge them as the grooms returned down the aisle and toward the lodge, calling out for others to join them for their reception. It was time to celebrate.
Upon entering the reception hall, Falling leaves Wedding/Reception invitations were seen on a table with a tree on it for guests to 'sign' a leaf or write a note and hang up. There were also thank you notes on little gold lanterns with Hunter green tealight inside. And little star cards were attached with the names of the grooms and the date.
There wasn't a single person among the newcomers of Aterat (along with hunters and guardsman) that weren't invited to the wedding and reception.
The lights, wedding theme colours and flowers that had prevailed outside were inside as well. So at the reception held inside of the Lodge, the place had been thoroughly cleaned up and cleared out. Tables were set up with cloths of the hunter green colour. And on each table was a gold candle in a holder. A few other decorations sat on the table such as mini pumpkins and over each was a dangling set of lights in an autumn theme.
While guests mingled, formal photographs were taken of the newlyweds along with their helpers Mono and Yuki. And more photos would be taken during the first dance, and once the reception was in full swing of course.
Ignis has done the cooking with the help of his crew with fall themed food. There would be no alcohol served and no strawberries would be present. But other than that, for starters there was Sweet potato soup, and apple cider marinated beef skewers. Skewers were Ignis' way of including the King's shield Gladio who loved meat skewers of all kinds back home.
Between that and the main courses were several big wooden Autumn themed charcuterie boards filled to the brim, which also featured Cheddar & Chive Pumpkin Cheese Balls. The main foods laid out were a Maple glazed roasted pork loin, pumpkin ravioli with a brown butter sauce for those that might not eat meat, and a favourite peppery chicken and rice dish was made in honour of an absent Prompto.
Side dishes were garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted fall vegetables which made Ignis smile because the King of Lucis himself was not a fan of vegetables. Dessert featured the autumn chocolate wedding cake, star shaped sugar cookies, and Memory Lane pastries made in honour of an absent King. Of course was a long history of these little treats being made between the king and his advisor so they were present when the king wasn't. Drinks available were apple cider with Nida in mind specifically, along with tea. There was also coffee, water, hot cider, and hot chocolate available as well.
It was part way into the food service when Nida stood from the head table, lifting a wine glass of spiced apple cider. Slowly silence spread as he cleared his throat and looked out over the assembled.
"If we're being honest, planning all of this has been quite an experience for Ignis and myself. I don't think either of us really expected to reach this moment in our lives. Nor have we attended a lot of gatherings like this in our time. There's a good chance that we'll spend nights retelling the story of this night to each other, because what it comes down to is that telling our stories to each other have been a very important part of who we are as a couple. In fact, the first night we decided to set about this wonder known as romance started with me trying to explain why I was up a tree."
Nida held for some laughter from members of the guard in particular, his fellows that could be spared from duty knowing well about his climbing behavior. It was well told among many circles.
"Where I'm from, stories are a precious thing. They can be the way that our memories themselves survive, long after they have been lost." His gaze moved briefly to a charm bracelet he wore, hung with a few small pieces that no doubt carried meaning. "Memory and stories of the people we care for, the people we love and stand beside very literally saved my world. So this is my request for you tonight. No speeches, no party games, but stories tonight. Share your stories with us, with each other, with strangers and familiar faces. If you are up to it tonight, share a story with someone who will listen. True or not, memory or not, happy or not, offer out a story, and together we can be stronger for it."
Then he smiled, shaking his head a little bit, perhaps nervous to have so many eyes on him. He lifted his glass again.
"To stories, new and old, and shared among friends. I'll happily go first."
There was never a real end to the food and drink and story part of the night. Those were not things that would be so easily taken away until far later, perhaps when the grooms decided to move on to their cake later in the evening. But there was definitely a clear mark when a new means of celebration began. With a gesture from the head table, some of the larger hunters and guards rose to head for the doors of the lodge. Soon they were outside, moving benches from the ceremony itself to make sure there was a nice open space. Soon music was pouring in from outside as musicians set up where the men had so recently exchanged vows. There were fiddles and drums and of course a few flutes.
Sat in their chairs the musicians began to play, the sounds pouring cheerfully out through the clearing and into the Lodge itself to lure people back outside. The first song was of course slow, and enjoyed by the grooms alone. But soon the musicians were adding an extra layer to the whole affair, playing either alone, in groups, or as a whole collection of players. Quick jigs and upbeat festive music known well to the locals mixed easily with slower pieces, and all were meant to bring bring to their feet to join in the dancing.
Probably helped that the locals clearly loved to dance and would be happy to pull even the most dedicated wallflowers to their feet and outside for a spin or two. What was a wedding without dancing in joy for the union that had taken place? It would bring luck, it was said. Happiness and joy and dancing to bring all that to the couple as well. So really, not joining would be rude.
What: Open Log
When: October 20th
Where: The Hunter's Lodge
Warnings: N/A
Notes: This is a mingle log, so people are free to set up their own TLs under it and tag around.
Wherein Two Come Together As One
The invitations had gone out in early September, a gentle request penned by hand in one of two sets of handwriting on fine paper with leaves pressed right into it. Given how many had gone out, and all were copied by hand, it was no wonder that they were simple. A date, a time, a location, and a simple note to 'Join Mister Ignis Scientia and Mister Nida Nomura as they join together in marriage.'
Today was that day. In two different areas Ignis and Nida prepared themselves for their big day. Jitters came and went, and at last, at the appointed hour, guests among the guard, the hunters, and any of the non-natives who chose to attend would arrive. They would enter the cleared grove next to the hunter's lodge, where benches were arrayed and decorated with green and gold bows set with reddish-orange flowers. Before it all stood a simply risen wooden arch. Hung from any tree branch that would do were carefully lit lights and silvery stars, all the better to suit the fall night mood of the whole celebration.
Standing at the arch waiting once people had come in and settled stood Captain Khannar of the Guard, in full uniform, looking vaguely amused, clearly meant to officiate the event. Once things were truly ready some music played on a fiddle and a young man (Mono, to those who might know the boy) started down the aisle with a bucket. Every step he tossed a handful of fall leaves out along the path, until he at last reached the end and took a seat. Across from him sat another young man (Yuki, also a non-native), who looked anxious as he fiddled with a small box in his hands.
Then, of course, the music swelled and so entered Ignis and Nida, arm in arm. Sure, it wasn't fully traditional, but why should they ever be asked to come in alone? That wasn't what today was about. They entered together, finely dressed in black accented with their own faint hints of jade green and metal tones about their persons, until they stood before Captain Khannar.
Everything after that was just tradition. Words said, oaths exchanged, meaningful looks. Yuki nervously handing over the box and rings that had been worn even that morning being redonned but with greater meaning. If there were tears amid the crowd or the grooms, would anyone judge them as the grooms returned down the aisle and toward the lodge, calling out for others to join them for their reception. It was time to celebrate.
Welcome To The Reception
Upon entering the reception hall, Falling leaves Wedding/Reception invitations were seen on a table with a tree on it for guests to 'sign' a leaf or write a note and hang up. There were also thank you notes on little gold lanterns with Hunter green tealight inside. And little star cards were attached with the names of the grooms and the date.
There wasn't a single person among the newcomers of Aterat (along with hunters and guardsman) that weren't invited to the wedding and reception.
The lights, wedding theme colours and flowers that had prevailed outside were inside as well. So at the reception held inside of the Lodge, the place had been thoroughly cleaned up and cleared out. Tables were set up with cloths of the hunter green colour. And on each table was a gold candle in a holder. A few other decorations sat on the table such as mini pumpkins and over each was a dangling set of lights in an autumn theme.
While guests mingled, formal photographs were taken of the newlyweds along with their helpers Mono and Yuki. And more photos would be taken during the first dance, and once the reception was in full swing of course.
Finest Dining For All
Ignis has done the cooking with the help of his crew with fall themed food. There would be no alcohol served and no strawberries would be present. But other than that, for starters there was Sweet potato soup, and apple cider marinated beef skewers. Skewers were Ignis' way of including the King's shield Gladio who loved meat skewers of all kinds back home.
Between that and the main courses were several big wooden Autumn themed charcuterie boards filled to the brim, which also featured Cheddar & Chive Pumpkin Cheese Balls. The main foods laid out were a Maple glazed roasted pork loin, pumpkin ravioli with a brown butter sauce for those that might not eat meat, and a favourite peppery chicken and rice dish was made in honour of an absent Prompto.
Side dishes were garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted fall vegetables which made Ignis smile because the King of Lucis himself was not a fan of vegetables. Dessert featured the autumn chocolate wedding cake, star shaped sugar cookies, and Memory Lane pastries made in honour of an absent King. Of course was a long history of these little treats being made between the king and his advisor so they were present when the king wasn't. Drinks available were apple cider with Nida in mind specifically, along with tea. There was also coffee, water, hot cider, and hot chocolate available as well.
Stories Are Our Lives
It was part way into the food service when Nida stood from the head table, lifting a wine glass of spiced apple cider. Slowly silence spread as he cleared his throat and looked out over the assembled.
"If we're being honest, planning all of this has been quite an experience for Ignis and myself. I don't think either of us really expected to reach this moment in our lives. Nor have we attended a lot of gatherings like this in our time. There's a good chance that we'll spend nights retelling the story of this night to each other, because what it comes down to is that telling our stories to each other have been a very important part of who we are as a couple. In fact, the first night we decided to set about this wonder known as romance started with me trying to explain why I was up a tree."
Nida held for some laughter from members of the guard in particular, his fellows that could be spared from duty knowing well about his climbing behavior. It was well told among many circles.
"Where I'm from, stories are a precious thing. They can be the way that our memories themselves survive, long after they have been lost." His gaze moved briefly to a charm bracelet he wore, hung with a few small pieces that no doubt carried meaning. "Memory and stories of the people we care for, the people we love and stand beside very literally saved my world. So this is my request for you tonight. No speeches, no party games, but stories tonight. Share your stories with us, with each other, with strangers and familiar faces. If you are up to it tonight, share a story with someone who will listen. True or not, memory or not, happy or not, offer out a story, and together we can be stronger for it."
Then he smiled, shaking his head a little bit, perhaps nervous to have so many eyes on him. He lifted his glass again.
"To stories, new and old, and shared among friends. I'll happily go first."
Who Wants A Little Dancing?
There was never a real end to the food and drink and story part of the night. Those were not things that would be so easily taken away until far later, perhaps when the grooms decided to move on to their cake later in the evening. But there was definitely a clear mark when a new means of celebration began. With a gesture from the head table, some of the larger hunters and guards rose to head for the doors of the lodge. Soon they were outside, moving benches from the ceremony itself to make sure there was a nice open space. Soon music was pouring in from outside as musicians set up where the men had so recently exchanged vows. There were fiddles and drums and of course a few flutes.
Sat in their chairs the musicians began to play, the sounds pouring cheerfully out through the clearing and into the Lodge itself to lure people back outside. The first song was of course slow, and enjoyed by the grooms alone. But soon the musicians were adding an extra layer to the whole affair, playing either alone, in groups, or as a whole collection of players. Quick jigs and upbeat festive music known well to the locals mixed easily with slower pieces, and all were meant to bring bring to their feet to join in the dancing.
Probably helped that the locals clearly loved to dance and would be happy to pull even the most dedicated wallflowers to their feet and outside for a spin or two. What was a wedding without dancing in joy for the union that had taken place? It would bring luck, it was said. Happiness and joy and dancing to bring all that to the couple as well. So really, not joining would be rude.
photo inspiration
no subject
"Inspiring me to be myself. Which I admit I am not always. And I needed to be there for Ignis as myself. I had to be honest like that."
no subject
"But I'm happy to hear that I was able to help you, even if just a little bit."
no subject
Though he had bought that before today and no, he didn't want to hear an argument on that point.
"You want your thank you?"
no subject
no subject
"Here."
no subject
"Sensei?"
no subject
He knew it wasn't the most impressive of blades. He still didn't know if. Longsword would suit the young man, regardless of his past experience. And a personal weapon used by someone who had been properly trained should be personally chosen. Maybe by the point that Yuki was ready that blacksmith friend of his might be able to make him something worthy. But for now this was just a standard blade from the woman's dwarven master.
"Or are you intending to leave me waiting?"
no subject
He felt really nervous holding the thing. He knew what it was by the weight and all of that. But it still was something that they had discussed and all of that ran through his head as he stood there. He wanted to ask sensei if he was certain that he wanted to do this but it would be an insult so he couldn't.
"No.." he said hesitatingly as he uncovered the sword and marveled at it. Yuki couldn't help but wonder if all of this meant what he thought it meant and it made him choke half of his words. "Thank you."
no subject
"When I learned the sword I had one not unlike that. It's the style I know. It won't be a perfect match for what you've told me you've done, but I'll do my best to teach you. I'll still teach you the other styles as well, they are easier to improvise in an emergency, but this?"
His hand touched the hilt briefly.
"There is a saying in my world. I don't know if it's in yours as well but it seems to true and basic that I can't imagine someone hasn't put the sentiment into words in some form or another. To live with a blade in your hand means knowing its taste."
Or, in Earth terms, those who live by the sword die by the sword.
"I'll teach you, but I will beg you not to make this all you are. Tonight and the oaths I've taken with Ignis? They symbolize a lot of things, including both of us stepping away from the things we were molded to be. Learning a sword molds you as well, even if you take it up in the defense of others. Swords are sharp edges, and they don't defend you well. The tanbo are meant to disable and allow one to end a fight without killing. A polearm is meant to be a utility weapon that keeps you at a distance and thus protects you and those around you. But a sword is aggression. Don't let what I will teach you change who you are. That is the payment I will ask of you, the oath I'll need you to swear before I take up a sword to teach you."
Especially if he is to take up the sword that had come into his possession. Elijah's sword. A blade he had nearly fallen upon. A blade he had used to fell its master.
no subject
He wanted to be useful and helpful. When those monsters came he felt much as he had whenever he turned into a rat - shamed and guilty and helpless. Since his curse had broken he'd never expected to feel feelings like that ever again. But he'd come here, Jacob had died, Caelan had died, Miss Yuna was in danger as were the townspeople. And there wasn't much he could do about it. At least not on the scale the heroes did, and Nida sensei would probably scoff to hear him say that. But it was true in Yuki's eyes.
Their eyes locked as he heard the saying about the blade and he nodded. He'd learned similar things from Shishou back home, but not put quite the way sensei had just now. But then Nida went on about the sword not making him all of who he was. Deep down of course he could understand that.
He didn't want to fight at all, but he knew he had to learn more than just the rudimentary bits about sword fighting that Shishou had taught him. If he could learn magic, he'd rather do that. But that really wasn't something he figured anyone could teach him, that it had to be innate. Still, he couldn't help but smile a little sadly as sensei went on about oaths. "I can do that sensei, but this is your wedding and you being happy with Mister Scientia and being married is more important. But I can do that when you're back from your honeymoon."
As far as a gift on his part, the custom was to leave a gift which he was still holding onto. There was no receptionist, but he thought about giving the traditional money envelope to Tommy to hold onto for them since it wasn't supposed to be handed directly to the couple themselves. But he had ordered a Japanese style tea set and that was now sitting on the registration table in its gift wrap.
no subject
"When Mister Scientia and I have finished our time together, I'll contact you. We're going to step up your training. Winter is the best time to enhance skills."
no subject
Even with working at the detective agency sometimes he felt as if he didn't belong. But he figured that might be because that's what he'd been used to for so long.
no subject
"I'll have to find you later. Enjoy the party. I need to reacquire my husband."
And oh but how he beams at that word. Husband. Clearly today was a happy day for him.