Jun 18th - Wedding Bells for Sage and Rubidia

From Chronicles

THE NIGHTINGALE

Tonight is a special occasion for the Nightingale. Not only is Rubidia performing, but her wedding is being hosted here this very night. She is marrying Sage and doing a special performance to celebrate the event. As such things are a bit different tonight. The tables in the forward corners towards the stage have all be reserved for their guests. A number are already filled with fair-haired and light skinned folk rather similar to Rubidia. The center dance floor is open to all of course, and the tables towards the back have been tightly populated with Rubidia's boisterous fan base.

The door to the Nightingale is momentarily filled with a large form in a neat gray suit. A form that largely fills the door. Pavel stands there momentarily, accompanied by a petite young woman with long and trailing black hair with her arm around Pavel's elbow. Both of them sneak quietly into the room, looking for a nice place to stand and be out of the way of anything necessary to make the night magical.

Sage is wearing a lovely gown that few - if any - have seen her wearing before. She walks among the guests that she knows, exchanging pleasantries. There are some that she knows already, but Rubidia's combined crowd easily outnumber them.

Rubidia will presumably arrive on stage when she arrives. Which is not just yet. More guests are expected so she must want to let them all get settled before she steps out. In the meantime light music comes from her speakers to keep the mood as everyone waits with baited breath.

Pavel and the neatly-dressed girl make their way quietly to the back of the room, waving if they happen to catch Sage's eye, but otherwise simply doing their best to not make a ruckus of any sort. Getting behind Rubidia's fan base may be a challenge, but certainly someone would be polite enough to vacate a back seat for a smith of his size, wouldn't they?

Sage straightens from where she talking with one group to wave towards Pavel before waving in a manner to ask them to come over towards her. She begins to move over in case the two are still intent on hiding behind other revelers for whatever reason.

Some lights dim and others brighten to indicate change. Followed by the music softening to silence and a mumble of anticipation from the crowd. It's clear Rubidia's presence is imminent and with only a moment's delay she walks out on to the stage with a wave to the resulting cheer. She takes a moment to let everyone get it out of their system, taking some time to acknowledge her guests with nods as well.

The smith and his date for the evening move over toward Sage, both of them dipping their heads in unison. "Maisvetit mesyats na vashyei svadbe," they both offer quietly. "Cohngrahtoolehshons, Sehge. Szees Anya, vyehry vohndehrfool vohmahn. Vee seet ohvehr szehr? Noht bee bohszehr fohr Roobeedeeyah's gyehsts, ohr Sehge fahmylee?" Pavel looks at the offered seating.

Sage smiles to the pair as the greet her, "Thank you and thank you for coming," she replies, paying little mind to the sounds of performance. "And, I think Rubidia has enough people here already," she adds with a wink, and a mildly humourous tone. She makes a gesture to the chair once more to assure the pair that the chair is meant for them. "Make yourselves comfortable."

As everyone seems to have found or be finding their seats Rubidia sees no further reason to delay. "Good evening!" She greets forwardly with a bright smile. "First off let me thank everyone for coming from near and far to experience this event. It truly is a new horizon for Sage and I and for all of you to come show your support for us, well it's praise beyond words. It's not going to leave me speechless though. I've got a number of songs lined up to give you all in return for that praise. But first let's get the girl who you're all giving me away to up her for your approval. Sage.."

"Spaseeba, Sehge," Pavel says as they move off to their seats. Anya offers a pretty face and a pleasant American 'thank you.' Russian accented, but very understandable. They - well, Pavel - trip over a few feet on their way, but eventually make it to the designated seating, with the smith fussing with his tie as they sit. The girl fires off some quick and quiet Russian words to him, leaning to fix the knot back into the Windsor where it had been. When Rubidia announces that she's ready to start, they both sit up rail straight, hands clasped neatly in their laps.

Sage lets the pair seat themselves, but can't help but notice that the smith might be more nervous than herself - at least at this stage. Then, she begins to look around for others to guide towards their guest seats. She seems content to make sure her guests have what they need. Then, Rubidia's words register and she pauses. She hadn't expected anything of the sort. What if they didn't show their support?

If they didn’t show their support, they wouldn’t be here. And surely to a skilled empath the crowd is overflowing with support. Still hesitation is understandable and accepted. Rubidia's call is quite patient, but also persistent. "I'm so mean, I didn’t tell her I was going to do this to her. But I didn’t want her to fret about it beforehand," she explains to shift blame onto her and buy some more time for Sage. "Come on hun, they can't bite when you're on stage," she cajoles with a wink.

Pavel looks to his date, who shrugs back as they take in everyone else's silence. Eventually, the smith raises one of his big catcher's mitt fists and calls as softly as he can for being loud, "Sehge, goh to pleh veesz Roobeedeyah. Look preety veesz drehs!" He looks around to the other crowd, a worried look on his face, desperately hoping that he's no stepping out of the line of propriety. Or what's supposed to be happening.

Sage straightens, offering a small wave to the crowd. A brief look is sent to Rubidia, but it isn't really a dirty one. She manages to muster as much dignity as she came as she makes her way towards the stage. Climbing up, she moves to stand near the other woman. "I should have known..." She comments simply, her tone holding a little humour.

Rubidia giggles freely. "I wouldn’t want to disappoint..." she replies to Sage with a smirk. Though Pavel's encouragement starts out like a pebble in the crowd.. or maybe a large stone.. in minutes it is amplified to a full cheer thanks to a cascade effect. In the end now that she's got Sage up here she has to make some gestures so they might tone down enough to let Sage say anything she wishes to to start things off. Though it could just as easily be for her to start her performance.

The two Russians in the crowd - at least, the obvious ones - fall back into silence as the rest of the crowd roars. They look meekly around, perhaps unsure of themselves. Even Pavel. Still, they're maintaining smiles, and paying attention to the rather strange wedding ceremony taking place before them.

Sage takes the moment to speak a few words, "Thank you all for your support and coming here," she comments, "And to those that don't know already... we've never been much for doing things the expected way... so feel free to enjoy yourself," she comments, before giving the singer a quick peck on the cheek. "Take it away..." she adds before she begins to drift away from Rubidia. Likely not expecting to be part of the performance.

And with that the speakers come to life to start the performance. Soft and soothing nearly jazzy beat comes out. As they do Rubidia gestures across the crowd from one side to finish with her gesture directed at Sage. "That was the sweetest song that I ever heard. Sometimes I feel we're just tryin' to steal from the way that we once were. I'm not the kind of girl to throw the first stone. But this isn't fun, the damage is done. I don't know which way to turn," she sings, illustrating what just unfolded as a lead-in to her song. "When half of me is ready to leave and half of me is you. You're the reason I'm alive, oh honey, you. And there's no way I can deny all you inspire in me, I'm so inspired." She continues, clearly directed at Sage.

Both Pavel and his date look up a bit in surprise when the music starts. "Eto ochen raznye," he says to Anya, who nods and agrees. They smile along with the music, Pavel trying to find the beat to gently tap against his thigh. If only he'd gotten those lessons. Fortunately his date has enough rhythm for both of them, swinging her elbows just enough so that they can both partake. "Muzyka ne nravitsya Rossiya," the smith opines before going back to watching the unexpected show.

Sage isn't quite sure where she's intended to be as she hadn't expected to be drawn up onto the stage. She moves enough to be out of the way, but likely still has the best view in the place. Her lips curl into a smile as she listens to the music. A soft expression taking her features as she gazes at Rubidia. She mouths 'I love you' to the other woman should the gaze linger long enough. If not, she has another way to send the message.

Rubidia can't gesture to Sage forever, she lets her arm down to continue her performance. Though she definitely brightens visibly as she receives Sage's message. "It's not a perfect world, but it's the one we live in. But we get so spoiled and think we need more. Grass is greener with someone else, yes. Don't really think that I'm goin' out on a limb. If I say that you're the greatest chord that I ever hit." She sings, further illustrating the reality of relationship and finishing with a confident and loving gaze back to Sage. "Half of me is ready to leave and half of me is you. You're the reason I'm alive, oh honey, you. And there's no way I can deny all you inspire in me, I'm so inspired," she repeats as she holds the gaze, and then turns to break away for the finish of her performance. "I don't know what I'm doin' here, I don't know what I'm doin' here. But it's these times, oh, I've gotta trust there's someone bigger than us. I don't know what I'm doin' here, I don't know what I'm doin' here. So I, I'll just trust."

Pavel sits and waits as the song comes to an end, his shoulders a little tense. Even Anya's hands on his biceps don't seem to sway him, as he waits to see if he's supposed to applaud and whistle at a performer's wedding, or stay quiet and respectful like he and his date are used to seeing. He does his best to examine the rest of his crowd without looking like he's trying to look at the rest of the crowd.

Sage doesn't hide her emotions for the other woman as the song goes on, and likely pleased to have a song devoted to her. She shows her appreciation with rapt attention and what support she can lend to the other woman. It's already starting to be a special time. She is quick to applaud and offer her own form of cheering that she can share just with Rubidia.

Whether it's proper or not most of the crowd is cheering loud enough to compensate for anyone who isn’t anyway.. Again Rubidia has to let them get it all out of their system so she might speak casually some more. Peace returns quicker this time as she gains more control over the crowd. "Thank you," she bids foremost, sending a silent return to Sage as well. "In the planning of this unusual ceremony slash performance a good friend asked what my favorite song is. I couldn’t bring myself to answer before this event, where I hope to do it true justice," she explains turning towards Pavel's table. "So Pavel, here it is," she announces, gesturing to the stiff smith for good measure. "Little bit lost and... a little bit lonely. Little bit cold here. A little bit feared." She sings, a heavier stronger beat to this song. "But I hold on and I feel strong and I know that I can. Getting used to it. Lit the fuse to it. Like to know who I am," she adds, her volume building slowly. "Been talking to myself forever, yeah. And how I wish I knew me better, yeah. Still sitting on a shelf and never. Never seen the sun shine brighter. And it feels like me, on a good day." She sings, her form bursting into brilliant light and giving off the very heat she sings of.

Pavel dips his head somewhat sheepishly as Rubidia singles him out. This time, when the song comes to an end and a precedent has been set, Pavel and his friend applaud politely. Respectfully, even if it's a very strange ceremony; not breaking into whoops and hollers. He continues to stay silent, not wanting to interrupt anything. The flashy glaringness overwhelms both of them, of course, causing them to hold hands up before their eyes.

Sage raises a brow faintly when her partner, but doesn't have to wonder long. This time, she lets her body move lightly to the music as it's a song that doesn't have her as the sole intention. She doesn't break out into dance, but has a small sway to her body to the music. She doesn't seem to be without protection for her eyes as she takes out a pair of sunglasses she's taken to carrying around for times such as these.

"I'm a little bit hemmed in. A little bit isolated. A little bit hopeful. A little bit cold," Rubidia sings, her light extinguishing immediately after the prior climax. "But I hold on and I feel strong and I know that I can. Getting used to it. Lit the fuse to it. Like to know who I am," she repeats, the build to another bit of dazzlement clear to allow everyone to protect their eyes. "Been talking to myself forever, yeah. And how I wish I knew me better, yeah. Still sitting on a shelf and never. Never seen the sun shine brighter. And it feels like me, on a good day. On a good day."

"Oni ryealno dyeistvovat po-drugomu zdes," Pavel says to his tiny date as the song and luminance continues to grow. The provided sunglasses are found rather belatedly behind a centerpiece, and both Russians don them. Hands wait just above their laps, ready to applaud when appropriate. "Sage imyeet ochen krasivoe plate," is whispered into his ear, a phrase that he nods at while continuing to watch the ceremony.

Sage does let her gaze drift briefly from the stage as if to check on their guests and whether they may have inadvertently forgotten to claim a pair of sunglasses. Otherwise, she continues to sway gently to the the music. A smile playing on her lips.

Another applause, giving Rubidia a short break before she gestures to Sage again, indicating another song for her love. The beat is lighter, quicker for more entwined lyrics. "The night is deafening when the silence is listening. And I'm down on my knees and I know that something is missing. Because the back of my mind is holding things I'm relying in. But I choose to ignore it because I'm always denying them," she sings, her pitch high to carry well with a softer volume. "I'm a bit of a manic when it's not as I plan it. Cause I start losing my head and then I get up in a panic. Remember when we were kids and always knew when to quit it. Are we denying a crisis or are we scared of admitting it?" She continues, showing the most intensive lyrics so far tonight, but handling it professionally. "I don't want to know. I just want to run to you, and break off the chains and throw them away. I just want to be so much, and shake off the dust that turned me to rust. Sooner than later I'll need a saviour. I'll need a saviour." (re)

Pavel and a petite attractive woman with long black hair are seated somewhat near the stage. The smith is wearing a snappy gray suit, his date one in a darker peach color. As the songs continue, they applaud quietly when it seems appropriate. However, neither one of them seems to be entirely comfortable. With what is of course unknown, but they're also clearly both happy to be there. "Poetomu nosit chernoe plate?" he whispers to Anya in between stanzas.

Sage offers her applause with the others, slipping off her sunglasses once she realizes she's been gestured at once again. She listens to the song, and while her motions are more slower than the previous song, she does move gently to the music. Even raising her arms as if to offer a hug when the lines of 'I just want to run to you' come. She seems quite pleased with the performance. Rubidia smiles, moving in sync with Sage to dance with her love from afar as she continues the song. "It won't ever change if you want it to stay the same. I really hate it but I know it's hard to choose if you're chained. And when it's all you control cause you've got nothing less to hold. You're getting tighter and tighter it's getting harder to let it go." She sings, fully impassioned performing strong. "I don't want to know. I just want to run to you, and break off the chains and throw them away. I just want to be so much, and shake off the dust that turned me to rust. Sooner than later I'll need a saviour. I'll need a saviour.. Stand me up and maybe I won't be so small. Free my hands and feet and maybe I won't always fall... Save me.. I don't want to know. I just want to run to you, and break off the chains and throw them away. I just want to be so much, and shake off the dust that turned me to rust. Sooner than later I'll need a saviour. I'll need a saviour."

"Eto takzhe posle vecherinki?" Pavel asks quietly as songs continue up on stage with the two grooms, or two brides, or whatever they may exactly be continue to perform. Still, he applauds when the songs end. Not just because it's polite, but because the songs are pretty, too. The girl next to him seems to shrug at his words, both of them a bit puzzled. Still, smiling. Pavel offers Sage a wink, or at least tries to if she happens to look his direction. Of course, this may be somewhat difficult now that he's wearing shades.

Sage's expression becomes pleased when Rubidia moves with her, relaxing into the motions as she realizes she has a dance partner in this. She lets her mind work out imagery inspired by the song. She offers her applause and silent appreciation to the performer once the song comes to an end. The third song coming to an end Rubidia catches her breath through another great applause. She waits for it to calm again, clearly aiming to make another address before her next song. "Another thing Pavel asked me was what Sage's favorite song is. An unfair question, as for all I know it's very likely she has a new favorite tonight. So all I can safely say is this is one of Sage's favorites to finish off for the night," she explains before stepping right into the beat. "Close your eyes. Close your eyes tonight. Close your eyes... Love me in starlight. Take me on the moon tonight. Show me what is feels like and we’ll be flying all night," she sings, the song clearly quite familiar and done well for that. "Up in the sky, flying so high. Far beyond the moon, floating in time. Silver so bright, mercury light. Galaxy of love, My baby and I. Don’t let me go, hold me you know. All I need is you, the ways that you blow. Crystal and ice, midnight sunrise. Baby can’t you see, just close your eyes."

Pavel applauds, his brow furrows but he continues to smile, watch and listen. Anya is still sitting properly, also somewhat curious about the ceremony, though perhaps not quite as lost as Pavel might look. For his part, he once more looks sheepish as he's singled out. He mouths something to Sage. But the way he speaks, it's anyone's guess as to what he was trying to say.

Sage's expression holds some amusement as the other woman speaks about favourite songs. Her gaze drifting to Pavel as some of the answers come to the forefront. She raises a brow faintly to Pavel. Then her expression brightens to the song and her attention is back to the singer. Her eyes slitting as if taking the song's advise and moving gently to the music once more.

"Close your eyes. Close your eyes tonight. Close your eyes... Love me in starlight. Take me on the moon tonight. Show me what is feels like and we’ll be flying all night." Rubidia sings, delving into the second verse of the song in fluid motion. "Light years away, stars on display. A halo in the night, our own Milky Way. Love is divine, come baby shine. The universe is ours, devotion the sign. Hold me tonight, Venus and sign. Energy and vibe, planets collide. Together we rise, invited skies. Baby can’t you see, just close your eyes." And with that the performance draws to a close with another giant applause. It dissipates as Rubidia's sated fans start to disperse. Invited guests welcomed to relax a moment as the crowd clears before continuing to the reserved section of the Silver Fork for the actual ceremony.

Pavel and Anya look somewhat like deer in the headlights when everything comes to what to them is a rather sudden halt and dissolve. They remain behind, offering quiet Russian phrases between themselves, though they would make an attempt to meet Sage and Rubidia before everything disappears. Everything that they're likely to place themselves at the end of the parade to the Silver Fork, when it happens.

Sage's enjoyment of the song is clear enough, before giving her most enthusiastic cheering for Rubidia. She begins to drift towards the stage, as if considering stealing one moment of affection before the rest of the ceremony. Instead, she ends up blowing a kiss and moving to make sure that their guests are aware of the plan. The Russian couple likely being high on her list to check with.

The performance complete Rubidia descends from the stage for a personable interaction with the guests as they wait for the crowd to clear. Pavel is first, putting herself just ahead of Sage in her approach to him. "So, did you enjoy the show?" she asks, looking confident she knows the answer.

Now that they're standing, the two look a little more confident, but not entirely. Still, Pavel happily answers Rubidia's question. "Vahs noht vhaht szeenk fohr vehddeeng. Vyehry... deefehrehnt. Good fohr Sehge, Roobdeedeeyah. Sehge laheeke, da? Mahny peepohl heer szeenk vyehry good. Should be vyehry proud fohr seeng. Preety mooseec, good seeng, da." He might be speaking somewhat in circles, but the point is that he seems to have enjoyed it, as does Anya, who manages to phrase things somewhat more rationally than he was able to. Pavel adds in, "Bosz vyehry preety. Nohrmahl fohr vehr blahk drehs fohr vehddeeng?"

"Well, the part resembling a ceremony will be to come." Sage replies, before reaching out to lightly touch one of Rubidia's hands. "I enjoyed the performance quite a bit myself," she adds, offering a fond smile over to Rubidia. Then she looks back to the pair. "I'm not sure we're the norm, if you recall my earlier comment on stage," she mentions, before letting Rubidia fill in anything else.

"She's the groom. But I wouldn’t let her wear slacks," Rubidia adds to explain the choices of dress. She smiles fondly at the praise from everyone her hand moving to knit with Sage's. "Shall we move on over then? Sounds like Pavel could use some vodka shots."

Pavel bows to that, as does his date, who says some further and better words. The smith manages, "Mahny, vyehry hahpy cohngrahtoolehshons fohr bosz. Sehge, Roobeedeeyah, vee veesh fohr joo fohrehveyhr good laheefe. Ees someszeeng fohr bosz, befohr fohrmahl cehremohny." He brings out two small wooden boxes, beautifully stained, handing one to Rubidia and one to Sage. In Russian, he states very formally, "Pust' vasha lyubov vynesti za predelyposlednego zahoda solntsa." Anya translates for him, "Let your love endure beyond the last sunset."

Sage looks a little surprised at the mention of a gift, but to the words offered she gives a smile. "Thank you," she replies as she reaches out to take the gift gently with her free hand should her other remain knitted with Rubidia's. If so, she'll offer the hand a squeeze at the translated wish. "Thank you again."

Rubidia nods, taking her box with clear appreciation. "Oh you shouldn’t have," she notes, but doesn’t hesitate to free Sage's hand so they can look inside the boxes. Then turning to Sage she gestures to help her partner don the gift, and for Sage to help her in turn.

Pavel dips his head low. "Spaseeba. Bosz ahr good frehnd fohr Pavel. Ees fohr szehnk joo." He steps aside then, so as not to be blocking the route to the important ceremony at the restaurant.

Sage considers the gift within the box with a curious gaze, before showing her partner the finely crafted knife. She slips the knife away as it doesn't seem to be the thing to be wielding through the ceremony to come. She'll help Rubidia with donning her gift, though, should it be more suitable.

THE SILVER FORK

Tonight a large section of the Silver Fork has been reserved for Rubidia and Sage's wedding. It's a casual setup though, tables instead in rows and now bride and groom side seating arrangements. The tables are spread alongside the long banquet tables for the food and gifts. And at the head of the arrangement is the altar.

Pavel and Anya squeak through the door when it seems most appropriate. This time, rather than hiding in the shadows, they hunt for Sage's side of the room to bulk up her own entourage versus Rubidia's crowd. The perhaps funny vision of a large man and tiny woman do eventually find a spot where the smith will be allowed the most legroom. Whispering quietly amongst themselves in their own native tongue, Anya makes a point to fix Pavel's tie once more, waiting for the ceremony to begin.

Sage makes her way into the Silver Fork, chatting a little with the friends and almost family that has come with her. Then, she leaves them to take their place on her side of the room. As they move away, she takes a little time to look for her fiancee.

Rubidia is also chatting freely amongst guests. Hers and others, since her guests have decided to sit wherever pleases them it's left tradition astray. Luckily the layout is forgiving of such chaos. As the trickle from the concert recedes though Rubidia starts making her way towards the alter. Meeting Sage en route.

Pavel and his date remain respectfully quiet, with no need to say anything, nor try to decide whether or not to applaud for the time being.

While Sage may initially consider the guests, she doesn't pay them much mind when Rubidia begins to make her way towards the altar. She moves with the other woman once it's clear that the other intends to meet with her along the way. To sticklers, they have probably broken a number of traditions, but it hardly seems to matter. A smile is offered to Rubidia.

"Nervous?" Rubidia asks Sage as they meet at the head of the banquet tables before the altar. "I am. It's not too soon, probably not soon enough. But it still feels like it's going fast. A few hours from now we will be wed, a chapter written. A chapter I very much enjoyed," she offers, smiling back at Sage.

"Vyglyadyat dovol'no," is a quiet consensus between Pavel and the tiny Russian woman. Any anticipated traditions were shattered in the other room, and they're hanging on for the ride, trying to stick to what they know. "Ty skazal Rasputin?" is a quietly asked phrase as they look to fit in as best they can. They're obviously having fun, just a rather tense kind of fun right now. The smith whispers something silently into Anya's ear, which elicits only the faintest of shrugs as they watch the lovely women make their way to the altar. Perhaps they're wondering where the guy is who's supposed to be waiting for the couple at the altar. What's the term? Priest? Perhaps that's part of their mild confusion.

Sage nods faintly to the question, "It seems more... real than I imagined it'd feel like." She replies, "And things always seem faster when you're just about there." She adds softly, "And, I hope the next chapter will be as enjoyable if not more so."

"I am looking forward to it," Rubidia agrees and with the consensus takes Sage's hand to walk up to the altar together. No priest or other religious entity meets them there. Rather they just turn to look to all the friends and family invited. "Again, I want to welcome all of our family to our wedding. I'm sure all of you are finding it enjoyable, if different than what you'd expect of a wedding. Too many different expectations, so we decided to be wed under our own expectations. Our devotion to each other, and your support for our happiness," she explains to everyone before looking to Sage to see if she would add further.

Pavel and his girlfriend look to Sage, to see if she will be adding further.

"For what is a wedding but the joining of two people who have their hearts on exploring further closeness," Sage comments, looking out to the crowd with her hand in Rubidia's. "The rest is just words for the sake of tradition, no?" She asks, trying for a little humour. Whether it'll be well received or not is another matter.

Rubidia nods, clearly supporting Sage and pulling her hand a bit to signal it's time. Their audience so far has nothing against the union. And so she brings up a velvet box for Sage. "There is nothing I would not do for you Sage my love. Take this ring as proof of that vow. An eternal flower that will forever remain in bloom. For I will forever be true." She states clearly for all to hear, opening the box to reveal a ruby and emerald encrusted rose ring.

Pavel listens along, and can't help but smile a little with pride in his own handiwork as well as being happy for the couple. The long-haired girl whispers, "Vasha rabota?" The smith gives her a little wink and a nod, not raising his voice to interrupt in any way. Of course, his eyes roam back and forth without the assistance of his head, as he tries to surreptitiously determine if the two of them - himself and his date - are properly up to ceremonial code activity.

Sage's gaze returns to Rubidia as her hand is taken and the box is taken out. Her eyes becoming bright with emotions, looking into Rubidia's eyes when the other woman speaks the words. "I do," she says softly, as if unable to forgo that bit of tradition. It isn't until she's finished speaking and opens the box until she looks down to see what the ring looks like. "Would you put it on?" she asks, likely not trusting herself in this moment to do so herself.

Rubidia nods, gingerly taking the very fine ring and slipping it onto Sage's finger. A very lifelike glittering rose of remarkable craftsmanship. The ring is larger than normal but anything smaller just wouldn’t be the same marvel to look upon.

From their seats near the back of the room, the two Russians in attendance look on silently, smiling to see what's going to happen next. Clearly, not what they're used to, but happy for the couple nonetheless. Pavel nods his head ever-so-slightly as the ring is slipped on - and fits.

Sage takes a moment to look at it on her finger before she raises her gaze to Rubidia. A quick little smile coming to her lips once more before she begins to speak herself. "You helped to re-kindle my light during some of the darker parts of my life by being who you are... and I love you for that and much more," she says loud enough for the people around to hear, even if she's speaking more to Rubidia. "My gift to you is my light forever. Take this ring and I know we shall shine brightly together." She takes out her ring, and opens it for the other woman to see.

Fashionably late. Better late than never. Regardless of how one attempts to mitigate the circumstances, Leonard is still late. He walks into the room, then slows to a slip; it seems that he's arrived just when it could possibly the most obnoxiously disruptive. What wonderful timing.

Rubidia trembles in anticipation as she presents her hand for Sage to don the ring. Though Leonard is late, he is fortunate in that all eyes are momentarily on the altar. And when Rubidia lights up to let her talent shine through the ring Sage has given her, he may gain a seat completely unnoticed. He's also just in time to see her channel a beam of even more powerful light through the ring to create a dazzling prismatic column to the ceiling. "I do," Rubidia says to seal their marriage, and then lets her light down.

Pavel smiles, and his girlfriend gives his leg a little pat. Both of them are obviously happy to see the happy couple up at the altar, though they still continue to look as if they feel a little out of place, or at least not sure of themselves. Even at this moment, as Rubidia brightens up and a second 'I do' has been spoken they appear hesitant. Perhaps not sure if the gleaming light is another indication and request for applause as if in the other room or not. Instead of being proactive, they keep their silence, watching with rapt attention. Rapt enough that anyone else entering late, the big Russian in a suit and a little Russian girl in a peach dress wouldn't notice.

A little tension leaves Sage as Rubidia seems to be pleased by the ring, and she happily takes it from the box for the other woman. She lets the other woman know of the little details quietly. Of course, the showy ring light show would likely let people know one of the features she had made. "Shall we kiss for our guests?" she asks softly, not paying much mind to the others for the time being.

Leonard's time spent skulking about now proves a benefit in social events. He manages to not stand out even against the hushed guests as he takes a seat in the back. Now he can focus more on the couple and their ceremony instead of himself not interrupting it. Just in time.

"We will kiss for us, and let our guests be witness to the rapture," Rubidia corrects with a confident smile before pulling Sage close for just that. There would be no doubt that rapture is what is being offered in this impassioned embrace. If any young children are present their parents may be having awkward discussions tomorrow.

Pavel's eyebrow pops up at that, and Anya leans in a little closer, though they say nothing and their faces remain otherwise pleased and happy for the couple. "Eto stranno," is whispered to him, and he nods his head almost imperceptibly. Still, their attention is entirely focused at the altar, where it's supposed to be. Of course, it might be expected that the smith would be happy to see that his constructs worked so well.

Sage seems happy enough with the response to her inquiry only to be surprised by the passion offered in the kiss. Not that she thought it'd be a chaste peck on the lips. The surprise only causing her to melt into the kiss. It isn't until she remembers the guests that her cheeks flush. She seems to be without words once the kiss ends, with her gaze lingering on Rubidia.

Just in time, he was. A cheer or applause might be in order, but Leonard chooses a more quiet action to celebrate the moment. A bit of journalism (or is it voyeurism?) may have rubbed off on him in the past, because he lifts up a camera to snap an image or three. If any parents need visual aids in future discussions, they know who to solicit.

Rubidia dons a coy smirk with the kiss is done. Giving off confidence and pride for what she just did as she turns to look back to the crowd. "Well then, let's eat before it gets cold," she announces, encouraging all to help themselves to the food as she starts to lead Sage down from the altar.

Now, finally! Some form of tradition! Pavel and Anya stand with that announcement and happily applaud - not concert applause, but wedding applause - the new couple. Maybe other people join them, maybe they don't. In either case, they'll basically keep clapping happily until Sage and Rubidia start to eat before even exiting their seats. Which brings up another question - where's the best man and maid of honor? A question that they toss about, trying to find a source of what they know, and falling on nothing. As soon as other people move, they'll get out of their chairs and head toward the newlyweds. Possibly with more in mind, in Pavel's case, as his face is lighting up.

Sage moves to walk alongside of Rubidia, a smile playing on her lips. "Please, let us have a good time," she implores the guests. She holds out a chair for Rubidia since she's supposed to be the groom. She lets her gaze drift over the guests until she picks out Leonard. "Glad you could make it," she comments before preparing to settle into her own chair others can take their seats.

Leonard lowers the camera as he rises and joins in the pleasant applause. "So am I," is his answer to Sage, though it is more mouthed than yelled at her. Conversation can wait until he reaches the pair, at his turn, which he starts by taking his place in the congratulatory line.

Rubidia readily accepts the seat as many guests are vacating theirs to peruse the long tables heaped with good food and drink. This then reveals a different tradition as some guests that look like they could be related to Rubidia bring servings of food and wine to her and Sage. Along with the congratulations it's definitely a welcome change of pace.

Pavel gravitates toward the couple, but still easily taking a backseat to everyone else who seem to have a good grasp of what's going on. However, with his date trailing immediately at his side, he does make some progress. "Za hlebom," is whispered to her, and she brings up her purse, which is actually surprisingly big. Not just for a small woman, either. The smith stops a safe distance away, letting the crowd wash around him like water around a stone in the river.

Sage offers a softly spoken 'thank you' to the offering of the food and drink. She doesn't dig in as the others seem to decide this is the best time to offer their congratulations. She offers soft, kind words to those that approach her.

"My congratulations and best wishes to you both," Leonard offers to them both, with a smile, after stepping around those who stop first at the buffet or do not otherwise engage the newlyweds. "It's good to see true joy for a change."

Rubidia takes a small sip of wine when it is brought and then turns to take in all the well wishing, Particularly of Pavel and Leonard. "Oh you did make it," she notes to Leonard with an approving smile. "Did you catch the concert?" she asks, blushing a bit at his comment.

Eventually, Pavel and his date make their way to the couple. In this case, he speaks through her so that his horrific slaughtering, slashing accent doesn't get in the way. No, he speaks his Russian words, and she translates them into neat American words - Russian accented as well, but quite understandable. "Pavel says that we congratulated you before as two, and we now congratulate you as one. May we see you both gray and combing your grandchildren's hair." It's then that they both go deer-in-the-headlights again. "We wish you much happiness," the girl adds as a translation, then they start to squeak over to the side, obviously hoping for a party to start. After all, the smith went to certain entertaining lengths to try to be entertaining. It's just not what he expected.

"Thank you, Leonard." Sage replies, with a smile coming to her lips, "And thank you for comings" she adds, before turning her attention to the others in line as they come in. Her expression becoming pleased at the Russian man's words spoken through his date. "And, I wish happiness with bless your own relationship," she replies.

Leonard exhales a sigh and shakes his head lightly to Rubidia. "No, I didn't, but I'm sure it was spectacular." To the groom, he nods, "I wouldn't have missed it for all the worlds." The other well-wishers nearby cause him to chuckle and look from Sage to Rubidia and back. "Grandchildren? Is someone nudging?" Rather than ponder the biological mechanics of that, he instead envisions a brood of little glowing Sages zipping about the house with parents chasing after. A mental image that only feeds his chuckle.

Rubidia smirks at all the talk of proliferation. "An interesting idea. Maybe we'll adopt a child. It's not uncommon among children of the earth and stars. Sometimes those adopted still inherit our special abilities," she notes, indicating she is quite open to such a prospect. "For now though, I have a gift for Sage. Pavel crafted her a pristine wonderful rose. I would have it, and all else that adorns her pristine at all times. So I commissioned this wristband," she explains puling out another box to reveal a nifty piece of technowizardry.

Pavel is stopped in mid-sentence when Rubidia reveals another surprise. At least it hadn't been long enough to start being translated, so hopefully the other guests didn't notice. Obviously he's getting a little antsy about this whole ceremony. Isn't there supposed to be a rowdy party happening now? Anya nudges closer, perhaps giving comforting warmth against his arm. Even if he might look silly for trying to look good in a suit.

Sage purses her lips at the comments about children, "And, I do wonder if someone might be volunteering to babysit," she muses, letting it hang in the area about who might be the volunteer as she doesn't focus on a particular person. She gives Rubidia a look of surprise at the mention of a gift. She takes the box with a little curiosity, "I wasn't expecting this," she comments softly, before leaning forward to kiss the other woman - whether it's on the lips or cheek is left up to Rubidia.

Rubidia smirks, accepting a kiss on the lips, but not taking it to the heights taken earlier. This crowd can only handle so much after all. "That’s the idea of a surprise darling," she notes to Sage with a wink.

There isn't much for Pavel to do but stand back and watch. Well, he could throw a pie. That probably wouldn't be appreciated, and just in case he was leaning towards doing such, Anya steps up on tip-toes and whispers something to him that causes him to smirk and bob his head.

Sage smiles to the other woman, "Thank you," she replies softly before she glances towards the large Russian man. "So... are you two going to relax a little?" she asks with a little humour.

When, at Sage's innuendo, the exhausted parents are replaced by well-meaning friends, there is much less chuckling. In fact, Leonard falls to silence for a moment. His recovery is no more eloquent than an awkward clearing of his throat that doesn't reclaim him the limelight. Leonard wisely allows the happy couple and the other pair of guests to direct the discussion elsewhere.

"You're welcome." Rubidia says to Sage before looking to Leonard and gesturing to the banquet table. "Discs of the concert are available there if you like," she offers before looking to Pavel and donning another smirk. "I believe he wants us to drink some vodka.."

Sensing that perhaps a party is starting, Pavel's face begins to brighten, and his body loosens up. A little. Rather than use his living translator for now, he does his best to express himself on his own. "Sehge, Roobeedeeya, vee bosz veesh mahny hahpy dehs. Yeers. Vhohl laheef, da. Boot... ees pahrtee stahrt? Fohr Pavel has gehms. Vahn fohr Sehge, as groohm, and ahlso noht ansvehr Pavel's qvestions. Szehn, have oszehr, too." He gives Anya a nod, and she promptly retrieves a surprisingly large, round and slightly puffy piece of baked bread. "Vyehry eempohrtahnt," Pavel confirms with a twinkle in his eye.

"You know that were questions on that list that were entirely none of your business." Sage replies with good humour, "So, perhaps you should choose the questions you want answered and we'll see about answers," she offers, before glancing towards Rubidia. "Dare I ask how many questions you answered?"

"Questions?" Leonard obviously missed something, and is curious if not surprised by the fact that he missed something in the parts of the festivities that he wasn't present for. "I'll definitely pick up a disc before I leave."

Rubidia grins, clearly amused that Sage did not play along. "I answered them all. But I'm not sure my answers were very satisfying. For example one question was 'which of us is smarter?' To that I asked in turn 'Which of us are you brave enough to call dumb?'" she explains before eyeing the bread cautiously.

Pavel finally takes the lead on something, with Anya wordlessly handing him the bread. He extends it to both woman, gesturing for both of them to hold it at the same time. Then with a smile he issues a simple command: "Bosz taheeke baheete, sehm taheem. Go, pleese."

Sage considers the man's words before she makes sure that Rubidia will reach for the bread as well. She isn't quite sure what to expect.

Rubidia is game if Sage is. That confirmed she leans in to take a bite with Sage.

Bites taken, Pavel gestures for the round bread back. He examines it with a keen eye. Points to Rubidia's bite, and Anya looks at it, nodding. Eventually, the bread is handed back to the newlyweds. He indicates that Rubidia's bite is larger. "Roobeedeeyah veel be hehd of house. Brehd good preedeect, lohng trahdeetion. Meh have vyehry hahppy to bosz," he says, with both Russians bowing slightly. Just because you're the groom doesn't mean that you get to issue the orders. Not in Russia, where women are tough.