She and Artorias had sent out word when the pups were born, but her own emotions in the days that had immediately followed had taken her by surprise so she had made the call to wait on inviting her parents and family to come and see them. She couldn't wait for her parents to meet their grandchildren, but that excitement didn't outweigh the desire to keep her pups as close as possible and tucked away safe and sound in their bedroom. She tried to explain away things logically, knowing that it was probably in large part to her own hormones trying to rebalance themselves, but there was still so much more mentally she was contending with after their brith than she had really anticipated.

Still, now that their children were out and roaming the castle, she felt like it was high time to arrange a little party so that they could meet the rest of their family that didn't live within the castle walls. She knew that when she moved to The Hallows, especially after Armada moved so far away, that their children would end up growing up more closely to Artorias' side of the family, but she still wanted them to know and love her Fatalis side all the same. She got some help from a few other wolves in the pack and arranged an area in the castle gardens for them all to gather with a large, open area where she was sure all of the pups would inevitably play. She wasn't sure if her parents would want to bring her youngest siblings or not, but if they did then the gardens were going to be absolutely run amok with pups!

Briar sent out the various castle birds—her own falcon, Artorias' ravens, and Gwyn's raven—a few days ahead of time to the various parts of Boreas where she knew her family was living to invite them to come. Of course she would completely understand if any of them couldn't make the trip, but she did hope that a lot of them would come. As it neared mid day she ushered their children downstairs and out into the garden along with Artorias. She had attempted to groom their fur a bit, but honestly with wiggly puppies she was just glad that they weren't covered in mud. As they reached the party area she sat them down in front of her, giving them a smile as she reached over to smooth a bit of Thorn's fur. "Be on your best behavior, okay? And have lots of fun!" She turned then to start greeting her family, smiling as she went to lean into Artorias' side.

"Carpathius Family"

Zee wasted no time in herding her family together for a southern adventure, packing essentials as soon as Briar and Artorias' ravens had arrived with the news. Seer having stepped back into a maybe-temporary maybe-permanent retirement had much more freedom then he was allotted previously, with the ability to head off on extended vacations without scattering to find capable wolves to replace him in his absence. Her son would remain she assumed, both out of duty for the pirate-harassed pack as well as to enjoy the time away from her youngest pups. Kite specifically had been getting on the new Warlord's nerves, so Zee had heard. Stepping into the magical autumn bubble within Auster was a weird experience and ever the navigator, Zee observed the phenomenon with interest. If the Armada had not moved north, would their lands too have trees with leaves threatening to drop? It was something to explore later, after she'd settled into their guest rooms and had some quality time with her new grandchildren. Excitement brimmed in her chest as she approached the courtyard, breaking from Sirius' side (and forcing him to finish guiding the herd of puppies who accompanied them) to half-sprint through the gardens to where the new family gathered. "Congratulations!" She embraced Briar in a tight hug briefly, but was unable to linger long while tiny bundles played at the new mother's paws. "Oh my!" Her paw lifted to her chest in awe and she drew herself down to the children's level to direct to each a warm smile. "I'm your grandma, and I get the first hug - " To Briar she directed clarification and her proud grin "- Sirius always steals that, it's mine this time." "Speech"

Kotori had grinned at the bird's message, not surprised but certainly happy for his sister.  She had already told him it was in their plans so this was simply that news being brought to fruition.  There was a lot to keep Kotori busy in the pack but not enough to keep him from meeting his sister’s children.  Fatalis and Carpathius' blood mixed together, Kotori was looking forward to seeing how they grew up.

Upon arriving Kotori was informed where to find his sister and the children and made his way to the gardens and spotted his sister and mother and a collection of children.  There was no doubt who they belonged to with an easy glance at their markings. A loopy grin on his face as he went over, wrapping a paw over his sister’s shoulder affectionately for a squeeze in greeting and celebration of her achievement.  This was one of those moments in time Kotori felt deserved being a little extra warmth.  His sister had created new life and they all seemed healthy and happy. "Good job Briar.  They all look strong and healthy.  I can see you in them."

“Hi mom,” he also greeted Zee in a welcoming tone and then looked down at the pups and lowered his neck and head to put it more down to their level.  “Hello there.  I’m Briar’s brother, your uncle, Kotori Fatalis.”

"Kotori Fatalis"

Gossamer had told Briar that the next time she came to visit the Hallows she'd be a Lieutenant. Much had happened since that day and while she hadn't quite held to that promise she was closer than ever. She felt renewed confidence in her skills and felt certain she'd be able to prove herself to Azure and achieve the rank she so desired.

Word had arrived that Briar and Artorias had had their first litter and with the news came a rush of emotions. Of course she'd expected her sister would have a litter some day but she couldn't help but be surprised. She was excited to meet her new nieces and nephews but also nervous. Gossamer had never felt that natural around pups. She never really knew what to do or how to react to them. Tagging along after her mother she entered the castle gardens.

Kotori had also arrived and she dipped her head in greeting before heading over to Briar. "Congratulations, sis!" She looked toward the pups. "Hello everyone, my name is Gossamer."

Confidence seeped from Dusks pores and as the incoming meeting of family approached, that confidence only swelled. What reason did she have to be shy? None whatsoever. Mom and dad had always indulged her independent streak. She knew that she was of part of an important family and because they were important, she shouldn't be shy about it.

Family began filing into the castle and the Carpathius pups were on their best behavior. They were lined up, as requested, but that wouldn't likely last long. Dusk had too much energy to sit still. Already her little paws were shifting, claws tapping on the stone. She couldn't settle and kept switching her long tail from one side of her body to the other. Greetings were made, first from an older wolf that said she was their grandma. Dusk didn't know what that was, but she smiled all the same. Next came a man who introduced himself as their uncle Kotori. Again, Dusk smiled. Next though...

A darker wolf with speckles came close, introducing herself as Gossamer. For some reason, Dusk felt drawn to her. Fire opal eyes went wide and she couldn't sit still any longer. Bounding forward, Dusk ran circles between Gossamer's front legs. "Hi hi Gossamer, I'm Dusk! Who are you? How do you know my mom and dad? You're really pretty! I like your coat!" Excited much? Always.

"Dusk Carpathius"

Ever since they had been old enough to be allowed to roam the castle, it seemed like she was met someone new every day. It was kinda easy though, because while everyone might not have known her personally, it was known that she was a daughter of the Aegis and Queen- and honestly, she quite liked that. There were plenty of Daddy's relatives around, but when her and her siblings were informed that Momma had family coming to visit, Lyssie was really excited! And she knew just how important it was by the way Briar spent extra time trying to groom them to their best- which she also liked.

However, when they were shepherded out to the gardens, Talyssa balked. Pale blue eyes widened as she began to take in all the wolves that had gathered there. But before being set loose upon the world, the gentle reminder to be on their best behavior for their guests may as well have been etched in stone for her. When Briar turned away to visit with those gathered, Talyssa remained seated. Taking in all the faces that were present.

The first to approach was a lady a bit smaller than Momma, but every bit as beautiful. She could see the resemblance and admired it. Congratulations were given to her mother, for what, she wasn't quite sure. But when the attention turned to her and her siblings, she tensed a little. Wide eyes, she wasn't quite sure how she felt being the center of attention. Shyness took over, but when Zee introduced herself as Grandma and wanted hugs, she eased a bit. She liked hugs. "Grandma?" Talyssa said softly to herself, only to lean into an embrace as it was offered to her. It felt kinda like Momma, but different. Different in a good way. Okay, Grandma was pretty great.

It wasn't until she heard a strange masculine tone did she recognize a new family member had approached. As he introduced himself, she met his turquoise with hers of aquamarine. "Hello, Kotori." She offered him shyly, just as a monochromatic approached, introducing herself as well. "Hello, Gossamer." Lyssie said, getting slowly more confident with each introduction. As a lull settled among those gathered, she decided she would offer her own name. However, that was quickly forgotten when Dusk broke off to take special interest in the woman that introduced herself as Gossamer. She was taken aback by the sudden outburst. But it gave her the confidence to proceed with her original intention. "My name is Talyssa." The Carpathius girl announced softly.

There was a lot going on, frankly. With mother at their helm, they'd spirited away to the Hallows-- family. More of their family. So much of it, in fact. The walk had been nice, something that Dread himself found himself really enjoying. It was a nice day, and the very act of getting out into the world was exciting... not that Dread would really do much to show his excitement. Instead he would carefully keep up the rear of the cluster as they moved, gaze carefully fixed on each of his siblings in turn. He'd watch each, make sure that they didn't stray, taking things all together too seriously.

And then there was the hustle and bustle of the reunion itself. So many sights, smells, new faces... too much. All of it too much for Dread, but he'd do his best not to show it. Overwhelmed, hanging back from the crowd. At first he'd stayed to Zee's side, but as she moved into the fray he markedly hung back. Observe. Watch. Watch carefully, and make sure that nothing went wrong. It was too much, but well... he was doing his best.

"Dread Fatalis"

More family, he seemed to have so much already! Unlike his mother his own enthusiasm was tempered he'd already learned that family didn't always mean they wouldn't be mean to him and his sisters. It also meant a very long trek, walking wasn't exactly his strong suit. His hesitance turned into irritance as the time wore on and somehow despite the fact that he was by far the slowest of the caravan Dread was making it a point to hang behind even him. He loved his brother, really he did but there was a frustration there, about the way he worried non-stop, the way he watched them all but especially him and their sisters that Crux still didn't wholly understand. One day he would know how to vocalize it, someday he'd be able to express how insulting it felt to have his own litter mates treat him like he was a piece of precious china... But for now, all he knew was that it was getting on his nerves.

All of this was brewing inside the child, feelings more complicated than most of his able-bodied siblings would be forced to grapple with this young, so when they arrived at the garden he wasn't exactly in a great mood. Crux let himself be checked over by his father before he managed to slip away to join his mother and older siblings around Briar and his new nieces and nephews. He felt hyper-aware of the way his gait wasn't even or smooth like everyone else's, the skin on the back of his leg where the crystal cuffed it itched in the way that it always did when he was anxious about how someone new would perceive him, an itch he'd never soothe for the growth that covered his flesh there was too tight for even a good stick to get in and scratch it, he'd tried. As Crux grew closer and names were exchanged his emotions swung back towards nerves and he slid up to push himself into his mother's hindleg, trying to angle himself so that his crystalline marked leg was tucked out of view of the other pups, his gaze sliding to his paws as he leaned into his mother as if doing so would hide him from the eyes of so many new pups close to his own age.

Speech

Art by Twonahalfer

Bramble had no contest with being quickly groomed and then ushered outside into the gardens with the rest of her siblings. While the whole sitting still part was a drag, she was excited to meet all these other wolves coming from far away! Once they were in the area that had been quartered off for the gathering, Bramble sat down as still as she could (still wiggling and tail wagging) while looking up at her mother. A wide smile crossed her features as she nodded vigorously, her paw pulling up to her chest in a promise that she wouldn't misbehave!

Before she could manage to stand up and move away, a similar wolf to her mom and smelled kind of like her mom approached quickly. Wide-eyed, Bramble gasped excitedly when the older wolf introduced herself as their grandma! Unable to resist the temptation of a hug, of being swept up into her grandma's arms, Bramble burst from her sitting position toward Zee. Even if her other siblings were hesitant or disinterested, Bramble was more than happy to accept the warm embrace. "I'm Bramble Carpathius!" She squeaked in Zee's direction before pulling away in a tumbling somersault.

As she righted herself onto all four paws, another large male that was ever slightly darker than her mom introduced himself. "Kotori," she tried out the name as her bright teal eyes looked up at him. He smelled different but the same, which was weird and she had questions, but not yet. She had to introduce herself! "I'm Bramble Carpathius!" Her chest puffed out proudly as she beamed a smile in her uncle's direction. How cool was it to meet her other family members?! Before she could continue asking him questions, a wolf that looked like the night sky showed up and introduced herself as Gossamer.

Still wiggling and bursting with energy, Bramble was about to head in her direction when she was beaten by Dusk and Talyssa for introductions. A quiet huff left her lips as she contemplated if she would go over as well or just wait her turn. Waiting was really hard though... As she was deciding whether or not to interrupt her sister's barrage of questions, the flicker of two boys around her size caught her attention. One hung off to the side, his eyes scanning and watching the crowd while the other clung to her grandma's leg and looked at the ground. Her brow furrowed, unsure of who to approach. Her body swayed, trying to decide who needed her attention the most when she decided the shy-looking boy by Zee looked the saddest. There were to be no sad puppies today!

Clumsily making her way back over to where Zee and Crux stood, Bramble walked right up to the boy until she was inches away from him. Moving her head down until her shoulder was nearly touching the grass, she was able to look up at him with her big teal eyes. "Hi, I'm Bramble Carpathius! Why do you look so sad?! Would you wanna play with me?" Her squeaking tone was probably a screeching noise to others but she hadn't quite grasped the concept of inside volume yet. And surely she was tired of introducing herself with both her first and last name... but dang it, she was proud of it! Letting herself plop into a play bow with her tail wagging furiously behind her, she grinned at the boy, hoping he would respond and want to play.

Bramble Carpathius

With the determination of a father on a mission, Artorias helped Briar herd their unruly little nuggets out the castle and into the autumnal gardens waiting just outside the foyer doors, bright midday sun pouring down in golden rays around them. Today was the day that Briar's side of the family would be coming to the Hallows to meet the pups and he was beyond ecstatic to play host to his extended family once more. Briar had done her best to groom and spruce up their puppies' appearances, but some seemed more determined than others to keep their fur mussed and messy. It amused the Aegis to watch his children scamper about their paws, and though it took some effort, they did manage to corral them outside to greet their arriving family.

Artorias made his way down the terrace steps to the soft grasses and cobblestone paths of the gardens, watching while all five of their offspring ran about. Black lips turned up in a heartwarming smile, turning his gaze so full of love to Briar when his mate came to take her place by his side, leaning into him gently. "And no running off to places you're not supposed to go! All four paws on the grass today," he chimed in with Briar's rules, shooting a warning glance to Dusk and Thorn. The last thing he needed was any of their kids scampering up to the top of the castle walls or something equally dangerous.

The Fatalis family began to arrive then, spilling in through the gates to be received by their Carpathian hosts. Zee was the first one up, congratulating the proud parents and gushing over her newest grandchildren, laying claim to the first hugs from them. Artorias chuckled, replying, "But of course! Come say hello to your family, little embers!" Art watched with pride while his children all took turns greeting their new family—all except Dusk, who got an exasperated sigh from her sire. Artorias greeted each member of the Fatalis family in turn as they arrived—Kotori, Gossamer, Seer and Zee's newest litter—all the while keeping a watchful eye out on his pups. He knew how wild and wily they could be. Little wildfires contained in vessels shaped like wolf pups, they were.

"Carpathius Family"