Min
The Ceremony
---
[act]Our reporters, Maryon and Gevan, stand on a beach, the Sadorian Earthtemple framed perfectly in the background[/act]
Maryon: Welcome, one and all, to one of the most anticipated events of the season, the bonding ceremony of Rushton Seraphim, Master of Obernewtyn, and Elspeth Gordie, The Seeker.
Gevan: [act]smile falters, looks to Maryon[/act] The who?
Maryon: [act]eyes widen[/act] The uh...um, rieker, that is, in the old Beforetime context of...uhm...being awesome [act]winces[/act]
Gevan: Oh. Sure, naturally [act]turns back to the camera and gives the audience at home a wide eyed 'sure' look[/act]...that's right folks, Elspeth Gordie, the 'rieker', more commonly known as Guildmistress of the Farseeker Guild.
Maryon: [act]snorts[/act] Ceirwan's been running that guild for years --
Gevan: [act]pregnant pause - did she just go there?![/act] Security? Can I have another co-host? Mine's broken.
Maryon: Let's just get on with the presentation.
Gevan: Whatever you say. So - here we are, at the Earthtemple, chosen as the location of the bonding ceremony since it was, we are told, the first place that Master Seraphim proclaimed his love -
Maryon: - or in the local language, ravek -
Gevan: - yes, ravek, for Mistress Gordie.
Maryon: Isn't that romantic?
Gevan: [act]dryly[/act] Sure. Now, I'm sure the question on everyone's lips is who will be attending?
Maryon: Actually, if I can interrupt you there Gevan --
Gevan: [act]throws hands up[/act] Sure, haven't been able to stop you before.
Maryon: [act]continuing[/act] - the question most people will be asking is who made Elspeth's dress. And the answer to that of course, is me. And some of the other Futuretellers. Mostly me.
Gevan: Really?
Maryon: [act]gives him a look[/act] Has anyone else at Obernewtyn been making Elspeth clothing for the past two years? No.
Gevan: [act]not sure where to go with this[/act]..congratulations..?
Maryon: [act]continues[/act] The dress has a full-skirt with white petticoats, is off the shoulder and she's accompanying the look with matching gloves. It's made from 100% Sadorian silk, dyed yellow, because Elspeth has never worn anything yellow and my dream told me that it'd go well with her eyes and hair. Here's an artists impression of what she's going to look like:
Gevan: Um...
Maryon: Isn't it lovely? Isn't it, Gevan?
Gevan: Yes, sure, lovely. Now, to the guests.
Maryon: I have three more pages of notes on the dress.
Gevan: We need to move on.
Maryon: It's extremely important that I share them.
Gevan: Perhaps another time.
Maryon: [act]glares[/act] Do not say that I didn't try to warn you.
Gevan: No problems. To the guests!
[act]Maryon looks mutinously disappointed, crosses her arms.[/act]
Gevan: [act]shrugs[/act] The surprise appearances for the bonding have all arrived via some very odd Beforetime travelling device. No idea about the science behind it and have been too scared to ask a teknoguilder - but we have none-other than the bodacious Beforetimers, Cassandra Duprey, Hannah Seraphim and Jacob Obernewtyn!
Maryon: Rumour has it that it will be Hannah Seraphim who gives Rushton away, in the absence of his birth mother and father.
Gevan: Their presence has caused an uproar in Sador, for of course, Maryon, they revere Cassandra Duprey as the mother of their culture.
Maryon: [act]pauses, staring at him[/act] I know, Gevan.
Gevan: [act]moving on[/act] The guest list is quite impressive, but I can't say that I expected those three to turn up.
Maryon: On the flip side, there have been, some would say unwanted, last-minute additions to the guest list. Firstly there's Gilbert, who many of you know, was Elspeth's stalker, for a time.
Gevan: [act]looks serious[/act] That he was. We would have thrown him out, but for someone proclaiming that his presence is essential.
Maryon: ...that person being himself, I'd like to make clear.
[act]Gevan and Maryon both shrug in exasperated acceptance[/act]
Gevan: The second some would say 'unwanted' addition has been someone calling himself "The Doctor", who while having no Healing talent and no apparent connection to either of the bonding party has managed to charm security and secure a front-row seat.
Maryon: Bow-ties are rather cool, so maybe that's his secret.
Gevan: Who knows?
[act]ba-dom-dom-ching![/act]
Margon: Last on the Do-Not-Want list is something calling itself Jar Jar Binks. Nobody knows where he came from, why he's here, or how to get rid of him.
Gevan: And I'd like to point out how difficult he is proving, given what the most powerful Futureteller in the Land has just said. The reason for his inclusion has eluded everyone.
Maryon: [act]lower voice[/act] I may just forget he's even here.
Gevan: [act]same low voice[/act] It's probably all we can do. [act]raises voice again[/act] Moving on to the ceremony!
Maryon: Before that, Gevan. [act]Whips out a plate[/act] What better way to remember this great day with a commemorative Elspeth + Rushton plate that I made? Well, me and my guild. But mostly me. I also made spoons, if you'd prefer them. All proceeds go to me. I mean, the guild, and Obernewtyn and such.
Gevan: [act]Pauses, staring at the plate, transfixed by it's ugliness...opens his mouth to speak. Stops. Considers. Turns and faces the camera once more, straightening his tie[/act] So! There we have it. The Bonding Ceremony is due to start at sunset, Sadorian standard time, and we'll be your hosts for this epic and excellent adventure.
Maryon: [act]bows[/act] May the force be with you.
deb
The Ceremony.
Top Three Guests:
1. Jakoby
2. Cinda
3. Gwynedd
Least wanted:
1. Malik
2. Brocade
3. Darga
Where held:
Obernewtyn Orchard
Dress: Gypsy cloths given by Maire
Deb of the Mystics playing reporter for Onernet News.
Day one: Morning
Deb: Well with only two days left for preparation things around Obernewtyn are certainly in a flurry. The bonding of The Master of Obernewtyn and The Farseeker Guildmistress will be held in two days time. A Gypsy caravan was seen entering the grounds early this morning. Gossip has it that the bride’s dress was inside. Javo and his kitchen help have been cooking up a storm for the bonding feast and the futertellers guild have finally found places for all the guests to sleep. And here is one of them now. *pulls Kella into view*
Kella: ummm hello.
Deb: Welcome back to Obernewtyn Kella. I hear things are going well in the healing centre.
Kella: *smiles* Yes they are thank you.
Deb: the big day is finally here; can you give us your thoughts?
Kella: Well we’re all very excited of course. None of us had ever given up on the match but we were worried there for a while.
Deb: And what are the plans for the next two days?
Kella: We have a party planned for tonight, a hen’s party they called it in the beforetime, though I don’t think any hens are invited. Tomorrow is the final rehearsal and we’ll be putting up the decorations. I really hope the others arrive in time for the party. Elspeth will be sad if they don’t make it in time. I must go; I have to see to the arrangements.
Deb: Thanks for talking to us Kella.
Kella: *walks away*
Deb: *looks for next victim. Sees Swallow* O_O
Camera Man: *nudges Deb*
Deb: Oops sorry. * Grabs Swallow and tries to interview him coherently* Swallow, What are you umm, you know, *sigh* O_O
Swallow: My um what? o_O
Deb: *thinks (doing after the party tonight?), shakes head* Sorry, your thoughts on the coming nuptials. ;D
Swallow: I thought she could do better, but if he makes her happy then that is all that matters.
Deb: Oh. Such an accepting attitude.
Swallow: I have things to do. *gives Deb a strange look and hurries away*
Deb: O_O
Camera Man: OK I think that a wrap for now. I doubt if we’ll get any sense out of her any time soon.
Day One, Evening.
Deb: Here we are at the Hen’s party for the bride to be. There’s Kella, Dell over from the West Coast along with Seely. Maryon hiding in a corner; well she doesn’t like parties but at least she put in an appearance. Looks like the games are about to start.
Camera Man: *turns camera on group of women*
Women: *Play party games*
*Camera cuts to Elf and Kella.*
Elspeth: *looks sad*
Kella: I’m sure they’ll be here soon.
Elspeth: I hope so; I can’t get bonded without them. They... *turns to see two women walk into the room*
Jakoby: Elspeth, congratulations. *hugs*
Cinda: *signs* I’m so happy to be here. :D
Elspeth: *Hugs Cinda and mind speaks* I’m so glad you’re here. Now everything is perfect.
*party last half the night with dainty edibles and large quantities of Gruffyd’s ferment*
Day Two: Midmeal.
Deb: *slightly hungover, sits next to Alad.* So how did the boys party go last night?
Alad: *holds his head* don’t talk so loud. X:S
Deb: That good huh?
Alad: I’m going to kill the Teknoguilder who discovered the book on beforetime bonding rituals.
Deb: But what about your non-aggression stance?
Alad: *glares*
Deb: *moves away from Alad, beckons the camera man and walks outside*
Camera Man: *Follows*
Deb: *heads to the orchard where the ceremony is to take place*
Ochard: *is being decorated with brightly coloured streamers and globes full of tainted material. Chairs covered in green silk are placed on either side of a red carpet.*
Deb: Certainly looks festive.
Day Two, Evening.
Deb: here we are at the rehearsal. Oh my. I wonder if the bride and groom know that these two are here?
Camera Man: *focuses on Malik and Brocade.
Deb: *to Malik* aren’t you dead?
Malik: >:( Do I look dead?
Deb: Well...you look a little...decomposed...
Malik: did you see me die?
Deb: Well actually...no. I just presumed that you wouldn’t make it when they coerced you.
Malik: |:|
Brocade: What?
Deb: *sigh* never mind.
Malik: I had to see the monster and her keeper bond for myself. If you don’t see something yourself, you never know if it really happens.
Deb: *facepalm*
Wedding rehearsal: *happens*
Day Three: Morning.
Kella: Come on Elf, we need to get you ready.
Elspeth: This dress weighs a ton. I didn’t realise that when Maire offer to make it for me.
Maire: its how all gypsy girls get married. Flowing skirts and beaded bodice in all the colours of the rainbow.
Cinda: *signs* It’s pretty.
Jakoby: It is much like the desert. There is more to it than the eye can see.
Deb: It’s an amazing dress.
Roland: *ducks head around door* Are you ready?
Elspeth: *nods and takes Roland’s arm*
Deb: Roland and Elspeth walk through the farms to the orchard where Rushton is waiting with Dameon and Swallow as his attendants. Rushton moves to take Elf’s hand with a smile for her and a scowl for Malik and Brocade. King Gwynedd will be officiating.
Gwynedd: *read* Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the bonding of this man and this woman... Does anyone have just reason why this pair should not be wed?
Dameon: *tries to raise hand*
Swallow: *hold Dameon’s hand down so no one sees it.
Dameon: *whispers* Spoil sport!
Elspeth: Oh no! Not now!
Darga: ElspethInnle...
larana
This special edition of Hello! Obernewtyn is brought to you by Kella’s Floristry- “Show them they are blooming wonderfulâ€, and The Mind Control, Obernewtyn’s very own thrash metal band.
It is a fairy tale ending to the romance that many people feared would never happen. From the beginning of her time at Obernewtyn, the beautiful and mysterious Elspeth has captivated men and women alike, yet no one has loved her more than our very own Master, Rushton. Keeping his feelings hidden for years, he finally confessed his love at the Sadorian Battlegames. However, their path to matrimony has been anything but smooth since then, especially with Rushton’s dramatic kidnapping at the hands of Ariel. In the end though, true love has triumphed and they are set to wed. So we have put together your one stop guide to The Bonding Ceremony.
Who are the VIP Guests we should be looking out for?
1. Stephen Seraphim, as Rushton’s only surviving relative, and someone who is shrouded in mystery, Ober-watchers are anxious to see Stephen come to the nuptials. Rumours suggest that Stephen might even act as best man for Rushton, despite the fact that he hasn’t been seen publicly in years. Odds on appearance at the wedding 1:6
2. Jes Gordie- speculation has been rife that Elspeth’s brother, once presumed dead might reappear to give his sister away. Of course if he does reappear, this will only add fuel to those rumours that he is in fact the dreaded Destroyer. However, one thing’s for sure, if he does return, expect fireworks between him and Rosamunde. Odds on appearance at the wedding 1:50
3. Brydda Llewellyn – instrumental in helping smooth the relationship between the two lovers, Brydda is a hot favourite to give away the bride. Sources close to the bride report that the two are extremely close and that he even has a pet name for her "little sad-eyes", although we are guessing they are not so sad anymore. Odds on appearance at the wedding 1:2
Now every wedding has its fair share of embarrassing guests, but who are the least welcome guests that might show up and spoil it all?
1. Ariel – sources close to the groom say that he fears that Ariel might make his way to the ceremony. Readers may remember the dramatic kidnapping and torture of Rushton at the hands of Ariel. This abuse caused Rushton to loathe the very sight of his betrothed and very nearly cost him his life. In addition, Ariel is said to be obsessed with Elspeth, stalking her on the Dreamtrails. Talk about an awkward addition to the party. Odds on appearance at the wedding 1:50
2. Swallow, the Gypsy D'rekta – a former flame of the bride, Swallow is said to be devastated that she is to wed. Nonetheless, as a leader of a political ally, he will almost certainly be in attendance. We can only hope that he can control his disappointment and put in a good showing. Odds on appearance at the wedding 1:2
3. Gilbert the Armsman – another paramour of the bride, Gilbert once believed he would marry Elspeth. After her escape from the Druid’s encampment, he searched high and low for her, and rumours suggest he is not ready to give up on her yet. Odds on appearance at the wedding 4:31
Where is the wedding taking place?
The wedding will take place on the grounds of Obernewtyn, with the main ceremony taking place right next to the greenthorn maze. It is believed the bride will make her way through the maze to meet the groom under a canopy. This walk will symbolize their long and somewhat circuitous journey towards each other and the wonder of finally finding their way to each other. The outdoor location will make it easier for the bride’s animal friends to be in attendance. In fact, it is rumoured that Maruman will have the rings tied to his tail; although sources close to the cat say that this is patently ridiculous to anyone who knows him and that anyone attempting this manoeuvre will likely find themselves viciously scratched.
Finally and most importantly, what will the dress be like?
The bride is known to be very modest and has commissioned the Futuretellers to make her dress. They have made her several dresses in the past. An insider believes that the dress, rather than being the traditional white, will be green to emphasise her eyes. The neckline will be a simple square cut, with long bell sleeves. The waist is said to empire line, to show her slender figure, whilst the skirt will flare outwards. Made of a delicate satin, the dress will have an over layer of frothy green-white lace, which will cover the bride’s décolletage. Instead of opting for a veil, the bride will have a wreath of her favourite flowers woven through her hair, which it is believed she will wear loose.
To help celebrate the event, as an exclusive gift to our readers, we are offering a limited edition commemorative wedding plate for only 39.99 plus postage and handling. (Design not pictured)
Arwen
The social event of the year can only be the bonding ceremony of Rushton Seraphim and Elspeth Gordie. I paid I visit to some Misfits of Obernewtyn the other day to find out more details about this greatly anticipated event. A young man by the name of Ceirwan just kept on raving about how wonderful it was, how perfect it would all be and how he was in charge of organising the ceremony. Well, who better to talk to then? I asked him who the people who had to attend were, the people specifically requested and chased after by the bride and groom. After digging around in a pile of papers her came out with a guest list and told me the first three on the list were most wanted, and indicated no one really wanted the last three there, but they couldn’t do anything about it without causing a political nightmare. There were no surprises in the most wanted list. Brydda Llewelyn has been like brother to Elspeth, and is one of the only people she’s really considered family since the death of her parents and brother. Matthew was Elspeth’s first friend and knew her best. Despite his long absence in the Red Queen’s land, it seems the saying ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ is true, and the couple have gone to great lengths to ensure his presence at the ceremony. Lastly Kella comes in third, surprising me greatly. After the death of her bondmate she has been rather glum and unresponsive, though I did see her smiling with Elspeth before I met up with Ceirwan. I simply had to ask about this friendship, and learnt that it was Kella who’d initially given the most hints to Elspeth about Rushton’s attraction, and as a result Elspeth desired her to be at the ceremony more than any other woman. In the Beforetime I believe the role Kella has been given was called Maiden of Honour.
The bottom of the list was more interesting, full of gossip as it was. Apparently recent events have made Rosamunde’s company unbearable to most, though Ceirwan refused to give me any more details than that. Stephen Seraphim’s always been a little funny, but Rushton felt obligated to invite him to the wedding, what with being his half-brother. Surprisingly the least wanted person on the list is Dameon. I know I was sitting there, mouth open for a good five minutes before Ceirwan took the time to explain. Since he learnt of the bonding ceremony, Dameon has gone over the edge. Emotionally he’s a wreck and as a result hasn’t bothered to use his mindshield to protect others from his feelings, which means that everyone starts feeling glum and depressed when they’re around him. However, being an Obernewtyn misfit who was one of Elspeth’s first friends he could not be excluded.
Ceirwan had to leave shortly after explaining all this, so I took the time to wander around Obernewtyn and the surrounding area, stumbling across the hot springs. What I found surprised me, as it was set up for a celebration; the bonding ceremony. After a little digging I managed to find out from a blushing Elspeth that she and Rushton had a date there a few years back and it held such happy and pure memories they wanted to be bonded there.
When I spoke to Elspeth she was in a dress fitting, Katlyn fussing all over the rare silk she’d acquired for the dress. It was a simple dress of white, dropping from the bust to just below her knees. Semi puff sleeves made of fine lace were connected to the dress’ bodice by braided pieces of soft green ribbons. Throughout the fitting Elspeth was pleading with Katlyn to place a length of ribbon around the dress where at dropped to the ground. Unfortunately I had to leave before a final decision was reached, but the vision of Elspeth in her bonding dress was, well, a vision.
(Arwen of the Dreamweavers)
adelie
It’s the day we have all been waiting for…the bonding ceremony of Elspeth and Rushton!!!!! : )
The crowds are all there: the rebels, the leaders, the misfits, the fangirls of Obernewtyn.net. Everyone who’s anyone in the Land and Sador is here.
Here are our top three guests that MUST attend: Dameon, aka the conscience, who is frind to both Elspeth and Rushton. This may break his heart, but he is happy for the young couple.
Malik, he has been forced to watch, must be a big smack in the face for them to see Rushton Seraphim back to normal, and Elspeth still alive.
Maruman, he’ll be walking down the isle with Elspeth, and will be right with her during the whole ceremony. He seems a bit cautious…
Now, who don’t we want:
Malik, he is here, but we don’t want him, but it’s worse for him than us. He’s in the VIV room (very important villain room), so he can watch, but not be annoying or backstabby.
Lidgebaby, what would spoil the bonding ceremony better than a whole bunch of misfits freaking out because they suddenly couldn’t use their powers?
Atthis, now is not the time to send Elspeth off somewhere. Still, it’s a very Elspeth thing to do.
The ceremony is going to be held near the ocean, where Elspeth and Rushton first admitted their feelings for each other. So romantic!
There has been a bit of decoration done, as well as some servants who will wave leaves made by the technoguild to cool everyone down. It can get so hot in Sador, well it is a desert land.
Now, the dress. The theme colour is moss green, like Elspeth’s eyes. It is made of Sadorian silk, and inspired by the landscape of Obernewtyn and the Land. The skirt of the dress is floaty, but firm, with green flowers studded here and there. The dress has a halter neck, which is white and fluffy like snow, as it the base of the skirt. The hip of the dress is studded with green roses, and the top of the dress is tight and fairly plain. It is a practical but beautiful design.
It looks like everything’s going to be stunning, so enjoy the bonding ceremony of Elspeth Gordie and Rushton Seraphim.