Artorias had waited for the right day to hold the wedding ceremony for his brother and future sister-in-law. Auster's autumn was a temperate paradise of warm yet mild days, bright sunlight, and a gentle coastal breeze coming from the western sea. Sparse fluffy white clouds dotted the cerulean sky of late afternoon. The pack had prepared a generous feast to enjoy in preparation for the wedding celebration, their banquet tables in the great hall filled with roasted and raw meats, honeyed fruits, and plenty of wine. Simple bouquets of seasonal flowers had been laid out as centerpieces for the tables. Though less extravagant than his own wedding, the spread was nothing to scoff at. Fern and Rudy had wanted simple yet special, and the Aegis had done all he could to guarantee that for his wolves. The azure wolf stood before the grand hearth, his orange sash bearing the medallion with the Hallows' flames from his wedding outfit draped across him as his only form of attire. Fern and Rudy had opted to not wear special garments like he and Briar had, but he still wanted to look nice to preside over their wedding.

Giving one last check to make sure everything was in place, Artorias took his place before the hearth where Rudyard was already waiting, watching the endless fire crackle in its home for a moment before he tipped his head back and called for the members of the Hallows to assemble for the ceremony. Attendance was not mandated, but the Aegis did wholeheartedly hope the pack would join in celebrating the love and union of these two wolves as another Carpathian was brought into their family. Artorias, the picture of calm confidence, was actually a bit nervous. He knew how important this was to Rudy and Fern, and this would be his first wedding performed as Aegis. He really wanted to do right by them and make their moment special. He'd spent days planning and rehearsing the ceremony for them, practicing his cues down to the second. Still, he felt the butterflies in his stomach while he waited for the Hallows to gather, and for the bride to make her appearance.

Turning his fiery gaze up to his brother, Art gave a smirk and a chuckle and asked, "Nervous yet? You got your vows all set?" It wasn't that he didn't trust his brother to take care of his own affairs, but more that he knew Rudy often liked to do things off the cuff. "Ready for Fern to make an honest man out of you?" he teased his mottled gray brother with a playful nudge, grinning from ear to ear with excitement for Rudy. Being so freshly wed himself, he remembered the anxiousness and excitement he'd felt leading up to his own wedding. It had been a thrilling high that he had no doubt Rudy was feeling right now.

"Artorias" | "Carpathian" | "Corbin" | "Eira" | "Argent"

Today was another big day for the Hallows, Fern and Rudyard were to be wed, and if his mother and father's event had taught him anything, it was due to be another high class and formal affair. Zephyr had spent the morning preening himself to perfection. It was important that he looked his best for his uncle's ceremony, of course, but it was equally important he occupy himself enough that he did not feel tempted to wander the great hall and swipe bites of the carefully prepared menu. When Artorias' howl rang out to gather, Zephyr moved to enthusiastically respond. Squeezing out from his bedroom doorway and half hopping, half gliding down the stairway, he made his way to the great hall and into the gathering cluster of wolves.

The young argentavis was growing fast, almost faster than the castle could contain, yet it seemed the rate was now beginning to slow. It was something Zephyr appreciated; the last thing he wanted was to outgrow his childhood home and no longer be able to attend these indoor events. Pressing his wings in close to his body to shrink himself to the best of his ability, the raptor shuffled between the banquet tables (with his beak held high, pointedly ignoring the presence of the tempting morsels of dinner) until he found a space to stand where he would not be in any wolf's way. There he watched and waited, offering his undivided attention toward the groom and his father for the ceremony to begin.

"Zephyr"

Rudy stood tall and proud next to the big hearth and as normal a picture of confidence with a small smile on his face.  Perfect picture, aside from those who knew him the very best.  His normal more relaxed all-encompassing gaze in his eyes was replaced by a more focused look today.  Rudyard’s mind was a mix of thoughts he meant to focus on yet it was at war with the strong emotions the occasion brought on.  Rudyard never got nervous, he was always in control.  Well, at least most of the time.  Today, more than any other, had to be perfect.

Rudyard wasn’t all decked out with any formal fancy attire yet his coat was as clean as it had ever been.  Between bathing and oils that would help it keep a glossy shine, he was looking his best.  The fur down his chest and even the fur that would stick out from his sides seemed to curl up a bit also from the use of some oils.  He’d never taken such care to not get a speck of dirt on his coat before when traveling inside the castle!

Watching Art approach his face first kept stoic should anyone else enter and see him but a flicker of a smile came over his features as Art stepped beside him, and again at the ribbing. “The place looks great Art, thanks.” He could offer a better thanks or deeper compliments of the setting later as Art had thrown down the gauntlet of teasing and Rudy would snatch it up just to soothe his inner nerves, a soft scoff at the suggestion the motley wolf would ever be nervous.

Other wolves might show up soon, and soon enough the ceremony would begin but not this second. “Since when have I ever been one of us to get nervous?” Rudy couldn’t say yes to being nervous!  He just also couldn’t deny it.  Damn it, he was nervous! “and you should know well enough I never have had a problem with words.  Of course, I know exactly what to say.”  Rudyard was quiet a moment before whispering the add-on, “ok, maybe a little nervous.”

Rudy turned a side eye to Art, smirking and adding on, “and are ‘you’ nervous?  I don’t believe you’ve ever done this either.” Even as he said it Rudy imagined his brother might very well be nervous.  He could worry about important matters.  “I have complete faith in you Art.”

The first to arrive was the little bird that Art had picked up to care for. Well, it had been smaller once but it had grown by leaps and bounds.  How big was it going to get anyway?  Was this nearly full grown?  Well, it was a member of the hallows now so while an odd family member, he was family all the same.

"Rudyard"

Since moving to The Hallows and taking up the role of Queen, Briar had discovered quite the love of organizing and planning events and hosting guests. While there wasn't any planned outside guests this time around aside from Artorias' mother and her small family, she did have a great time helping her mate set up the grand hall for the sweet, intimate ceremony. She of course pulled out the best of her wines to lay out with all of the food on the table and even though she knew Fern and Rudy had requested that things be simple she just couldn't resist at least putting together some beautiful, fragrant bouquets to decorate the hall with. As Artorias called the pack for the main event, she got the little gift she had come up with and went to where Fern was waiting to make her entrance.

Even though she hadn't spent much time with the other woman, Fern was about to become part of the Carpathius family just like she had and in a way that kind of made them sisters and even beyond that fact she was still one of the members of the pack and was practically family to her just because of that. She just couldn't resist doing something special for her even if Fern and Rudy had declined having some kind of accessories or outfits the way her and Artorias had. She carried a crown made of white flowers with blue ribbon woven between the stems to hold it all together. Her tail, which was let loose and flowing for the occasion, wagged behind her as he went over to Fern and carefully placed it on her head before standing back to admire her work with a bright, pleased grin. "You look gorgeous!" she insisted in a hushed, but excited whisper. She briefly embraced her new sister-in-law, adding, "Congratulations! I'll see you after the ceremony!"

With that Briar went back to the main dining hall and went to sit next to Zeph who had arrived in the time she was with Fern. She sat with her adopted son who had very quickly sprouted up like a weed, growing even bigger than she had ever anticipated. She peered up at him with a grin before turning her attention to Artorias and Rudyard, waiting eagerly for everyone else to gather so the ceremony could begin.

"Briar Carpathius"

Gwyn wasn't exactly the type that enjoyed crowds, but she would never miss a chance to be there for her siblings. As soon as Artorias called for the pack to gather for Rudyard and Fern's wedding ceremony, she came down from her room on the second floor to join in on the event. She happened to reach the stairs just as Zephyrus was bouncing and gliding down the flights of them, making her giggle softly as she watched him go before following after him at a more calm and moderate pace. When she stepped into the great hall she saw that the room had been decorated quite nicely for the event and the food that was awaiting them smelled amazing. She wondered to herself if maybe Ysmir would come down as well, but she could also tell that this was seemingly far more of a family affair than Art and Briar's ceremony had been. In all honesty, she liked this more than her Aegis' brother's larger, more grand ceremony, but she understood the purpose of that kind of event for the marriage of a alpha couple and of the daughter of the leader from another large pack. Still, this was much more her speed and she felt more comfortable than she had at the last wedding as she sat down in the slowly accumulating crowd, giving her brothers an encouraging smile.

"Gwynevere Carpathius"

Out of all the wolves currently present, Laeta was the only one not of their family. At least, not in blood - the Hallows was in its own way an extended family, tightly knit pack of wolves from all over. A home in spirit, physically and mentally. Laeta embraced this place with all her heart, having never forgotten how the Aegis had opened up the castle to her to recover - and when she had suffered her paralysis, she was not abandoned. She had met so many friends, in particular having gotten to know Fern quite well. She was a kindhearted, generous girl and Laeta had come to enjoy her company whenever they interacted. Though Laeta had been busy doing the best she could physically muster for the pack - be it hunting prey, cleaning, or helping other packmembers with emotional support - she never forgot the grey lady’s friendship. Upon hearing of her wedding to Rudyard, someone she was less familiar with but knew to be a great person as well, Lae knew she must see the ceremony and see her friend be wed. Ot was the least she could do. Her pelt gleamed with the shine of a healthier wolf. She’d taken care of herself, more than usual, to ensure she had the strength to stand and sit through the ceremony. Her joints wouldn’t hinder that, she made sure. Her ruby eyes sparkled as she approached the ceremonial area, her slight head sporting a sprouting of little wildflowers she’d tucked into the fur around her ears. A bit spruced up in her own way. Mel toddled beside her, with his own fur shining brightly and his burly form ever beside the older woman as they sat in their respective seats. Laeta sat on her haunches, a bright smile gracing her lips. ”Speech” ’Thought’

Rudy was getting married! ... Yeah, it still didn't feel quite real. But as Avantika approached the tables and the growing crowd, the smell of delicious meat and wine swirling around her nose, she had no choice but to believe it. She'd known about his relationship with Fern in vague terms, but had she really been so absent for so long that she'd missed how serious they were? She didn't know Fern very well. Well, no reason not to start now! She knew, of course, that Rudy probably knew Fern inside and out and wouldn't pick the wrong person. But there was always that pestering touch at the back of her mind that said, "What if?" and she... she didn't know how to fight that. But there was nothing wrong with making friends. She actually probably should talk to folks more. She was smart and perfectly capable of being respectful and not pushing boundaries. And Rudy was already getting married; she wouldn't stop the ceremony or anything drastic like that. But there was no harm in being careful. Rudy didn't deserve to be hurt, ever. She wasn't sure if she could manage to speak well right now, so she simply took a seat somewhat close to the front -- as close as she could bear -- and smiled at her brothers at the hearth.

"Speech"

Every time one of her children hit some kind of big milestone it still baffled her that so much time had passed and that they really and truly were adults living their own lives now. Artorias had tipped her off that the wedding would be happening a couple of days prior so she had of course made her way to the castle so that she could be there for the event. She wouldn't dare miss such a big moment for her sweet boy. She had been resting out in the gardens after her trip here while she waited for the wedding to start and as she looked around at the trees and plants around her she wished again that Resin was here to attend these events with her for their children. It wasn't fair that their time together as a family had been cut so short, but she didn't mourn her late mate the way she used to. Now she could look around at the castle they had claimed together and reminisce about their lives and know that somewhere Resin was watching the family they built continue on in her legacy.

Her wistful thoughts were interrupted by Artorias' call for everyone to gather for the ceremony and she smiled as she got to her paws, giving herself a shake to even out her coat. The white feathers fastened into the fur behind her ear tossed about a bit with a the shake before settling back against the side of her neck again, her little piece of Kane to carry with her always. She didn't have a formal, traditional wedding for either of her relationships, but she was happy that her sons were getting the chance to express their love for their wives in the way they wanted to. She followed the small crowd that had gathered so far into the main hall and as she went to find a seat among the crowd she caught the eye of her sons sitting up at the front by the heath and gave them both a proud grin. She settled in and waited for everything to begin, taking a moment to admire the modest but beautiful decorations while she did.

Tamsyn Carpathius of the Valley

Sota was admittedly late but he hoped he wasn't too late. The last thing he wanted to do was interrupt the middle of a wedding ceremony just because he was running behind! He'd been out a bit further than usual and he'd lost track of time, but as soon as he heard the call to gather he headed that way, short legs carrying him as quickly as they could back to the castle. By the time he arrived he was glad to see the ceremony hadn't begun yet. He didn't know Rudyard well but he considered Fern a friend of his and he was thrilled at the idea of their union. He loved the idea of love like theirs, even if it wasn't something he'd ever experienced - not that he necessarily was bothered by that. Quickly making his way toward the group, his attention settled on Laeta first and he moved to sit alongside her, always glad to see she was doing well after all she had endured. "Beautiful, isn't it?" Sota gave a wide grin as he gestured with his muzzle at the decorations they'd set up all around them.

She was very late she knew that, but not for nothing. She had been hunting to get enough food for the event and even more an special gift from hers. She wasnt the best crafter in Auster nor anywhere in Boreas, but she could still make decent clothing or confection items for everyone. Courtesy of learning from her father when she was but a puppy. With the furs of an albino bear she was able to make a nice carpet out of it. Leaving the head attached to the fur. And with it on her back she finally made her way to the event, finding family and friends in there. She smiles warmly. Slowly she greets those already there. And right after she placed her gift into the gift pile. Happy to no end. All done she takes a seat on her own spot, a bit away but not too uh, just to have her own spot to watch without bothering others. text

The day had finally come and Fern and Rudyard would be joining their lives together in mere moments. The pair already share their love and hearts with each other but this ceremony will make their union official in the eyes of the pack. Her nerves have been jumpy since she awoke that morning and the gray woman had even debated about asking Rudy to postpone so they could have a small ceremony. But the pair had agreed to include the pack and Fern did not want to disappoint them. So, she stands in the little alcove off the main room, waiting to take her walk down the aisle. The hall has been filled with flowers, food, and wine and Fern had spied sunflowers when she had peeked out.

Fern takes a deep, steading breath as Artorias calls the pack together, reminding herself that the pack is her family and they are here to celebrate with the couple. Glancing down at her legs, the gray woman once again, checks to make sure that there is not a speck of dirt on her. The weeks leading up to ceremony, she had bathed regularly, mixing the water with scented oils. It worked as her fur shines from the care and the subtle scent wildflowers lingers in her coat. She is proud of the time and care she put into caring for her coat, even going so far as to have help brushing it out. Hopefully, Rudyard will appreciate the care she took as well.

The sounds of nails clicking against the stone floors alerts the gray woman to the arrival of guests and the butterflies that been fluttering in her stomach are suddenly drowned by excitement. This is it! It is actually happening! Tail wags slowly as she turns to face the exit and is greeted by Briar. A warm, caring smile appears as she looks at the Hallows Queen, her tail picking up pace as her soon to be sister-in-law slips a crown of white flowers on her head. Briar speaks, congratulating her and Fern reaches out a paw to catch the tan and cream woman before she can leave. Words fail the shorter woman and all she can do offer a thankful smile as tears well in the corners of her eyes. This is it. Soon they be family. Without a word, the gray woman steps forward, gently pressing her smaller form into Briar in a gesture of familial love.

Finally, two words slip past her pale lips, in a soft, emotion-filled tone, “Thank you.” It is simple but the gesture Briar has given means the world to Fern. With that, she releases the Queen, shooing her happily off to join the crowd. A few more minutes pass and Fern finally decides to join the gathered wolves. Slowly, carefully, with her crown of white flowers and blue ribbon in place, the gray woman steps out into the room. Pale paws slowly pull her toward the aisle, a warm, loving smile on her lips as she goes. Turning to face the fireplace, she takes a moment to allow her eyes to roam over the gathered wolves.

She spies Zephyrus and wonders when had he gotten so big. Briar who sits next to her adopted son with a grin on her face. Gwynevere, who the gray woman chides herself for not taking time to get to know her better. Laeta and Mel; the former seeming to be healing more each day while the latter seemms just as worried as ever about Laeta. Avantika who Fern, again, scolds herself for not getting to know better. Tamsyn, the Carpathius siblings’ mother and strong matriarch of the family. Sota, the small male who has quickly become one of Fern’s friends, sita beside her other good friend, Laeta. Jane. The sweet Adravendi woman who Fern wants to get to know better. And finally, Bowen. The small Carpathius woman is tucked away, present but trying to hide at the same time.

A smile is on her lips as she looks over the gathered wolves, the warmth growing each time she meets her friends’ eyes. Finally, Fern looks to the hearth, where Artorias and Rudyard stand. The smile takes on a softer, loving quality as she slowly makes her way down the aisle, admiring how handsome Rudy is. Love sparkles in her blue eyes as she joins Rudyard at the front, beaming brightly at the love of her life. Softly, she whispers, “You are so handsome, Rudyard Carpathius.” Her tail wags gently as she looks to Art, dipping her head in appreciation for everything he is doing for the couple.


"Fern"

Bowen had made it back to The Hallows just in time. This very day, in fact. She was a little dusty from her travels, but she did her best to wash up before heading to the ceremony. She didn't want to be late, so Bowen hadn't made herself look pretty like she had for Art's wedding. With her face and paws washed, the caramel cream fae practically ran to make it there in time.

Many wolves were present, as was expected. Bo didn't know exactly where to sit, but in the end she chose a spot beside Avantika. Both Carpathius ladies weren't much for small talk, so that helped. Bo flashed a smile at her golden sister before directing her attention towards Rudy. She lifted her eyebrows a few times dramatically and gave him a smile as well. The look that she gave to Art was more of a smolder, but... that was to be expected.

Viridian eyes drifted towards the aisle and she watched as Fern began her approach towards the head of the crowd. Against her will, Bo found her long, lustrous tail swishing gently back and forth. It was a happy time. She was glad that her brother had found love. Glad that he'd found someone that could put up with his antics.

"Bowen"

ooc: For brevity, only Artorias, Rudyard, and Fern shall post for the actual ceremony. Once it's concluded, everyone is free to continue posting to congratulate the happy couple!

While they waited for the congregation to arrive, Rudy and Art shared some banter back and forth as the brothers did. Rudyard thanked him with genuine appreciation for making the hall look as good as it did. Artorias simply offered a humble smile back; his brother and sister-in-law were sharing a special day they would remember for the rest of their lives, of course he was going to go to all the lengths to make their dreams a reality! He'd even made sure to include as many sunflowers as he could get his paws on for Fern, their big, bold yellow faces sticking out ostentatiously from every bouquet and arrangement in the hall. Artorias couldn't resist a smirk when Rudy staunchly denied being nervous, shooting his brother a doubting glance, though he had the utmost faith in his sibling. "Yeah, that's what I thought," he teased back as Rudy did eventually admit to some nerves. Then Rudy asked if he was nervous. "Of course I am. This is the biggest moment of my brother's life, I want to make sure I do everything right." There was honesty in his words. Even if he wasn't the star of this show, there was still the pressure on him as the Aegis to deliver this ceremony flawlessly. He wanted everything just right for his family. But Rudy dispelled those worries by pledging his faith in him, and Art gave a lopsided smile to his mottled gray brother. "Thanks, Rudy. You're going to do great as well."

The first to arrive was Zephyrus, and gods damn, was he getting bigger by the day! Artorias stifled a laugh when he watched his son duck through the doors to the great hall, then shuffle with his wings pressed to his side between the long banquet tables. Then came Briar, the Aegis sharing a loving smile with his Queen as she got seated beside their son. Gwynevere arrived, as did Laeta, Tika, and Sota. He greeted them all with a warm smile and acknowledging nod. Then their mother appeared, sitting front and center, and Artorias had to resist rushing up to pull her into a hug. He hadn't seen her in almost two seasons, and he so missed his mother's presence in and around the Hallows. Jane arrived and got seated quietly, and just before Fern was due to walk in, Artorias heard the skittering paws of someone rushing in at the last minute. Amber eyes peered up—then grew wide with shock at the woman he saw sitting beside Avantika. Bowen. Bowen had come home. For a moment, Artorias was left reeling, blinking rapidly as if he were seeing a ghost and that she might disappear in a split second, but the cream and caramel fae remained. He wanted to rush from his position to her then and there, scoop her up in the biggest hug and spin her around, he was so happy to see her home again! But that would have to wait. Right now, his duty was to Rudyard and Fern, and he would not let his emotions interrupt their day.

Fern entered the hall, her paws moving gracefully across the stone floor to approach her betrothed at the hearth. Artorias smiled when he saw her, all done up with the flower crown Briar had made for her on her head. As Rudy's fiancée approached, Art leaned over and gave his brother a playful nudge and an approving nod. Fern was positively radiant, glowing with joy and excitement, and he was eager to see Rudy's reaction when he saw his blushing bride for the first time. Once the two had taken their places before him at the great hearth, Artorias took a slow breath to steady his nerves. Just don't fuck it up, Art... "Bun venit, prieteni și familie! Welcome, friends and family! On behalf of the happy couple, thank you for being here. We are gathered today to celebrate the love and the union of Rudyard Carpathius and Fern Lark. Everyone here has shared memories and love with Rudy and Fern, and both are who they are because of the love and support you all have given them in return. Today, we bear witness as they begin the next chapter of their lives together as mates." Artorias looked between both Rudyard and Fern, gesturing for them to join paws. "Rudyard and Fern, you have both brought so much joy and love not just to each other, but to everyone in the Hallows. Remember always that love isn't just an emotion—it is a road on a lifelong journey. Your road will have highs and it will have lows. My hope for you both is that you always celebrate together in triumph and mourn together in loss. Find your joys, your comforts, and your light in your partner, and know that together you can overcome any challenges you face."

Artorias nodded to Rudy first. "Rudyard, please recite your vows to Fern as her husband." When he had finished, he looked to Fern next. "Fern, please recite your vows to Rudyard as his wife." He gave both wolves center stage, shining the spotlight on them for the world to bear witness to their vows of love and commitment.

"Artorias" | "Carpathian" | "Corbin" | "Eira" | "Argent"

Maybe it was the one thing that had stayed the same throughout their lives, two brothers teasing and sharing faith in one another.  Rudyard might be a tad nervous, but the small words back and forth eased his own nerves.  It was something normal and the reality of his brother, as always, was there for him when needed.  What day would be more important to have his brother than now?    The entire family should be here in fact and one by one it seemed Rudyard was getting his wish.

Eyes away from Artorias and to those who came in. Artorias wife came in next.  Rudyard always imagined taking time to get to know her better but it seemed he had never found much time.  That would have to be fixed but not for another season.  

After Briar came his sister Gwyn. She got a happy smile at her showing up.  Ceremonies and big crowds weren’t her things so it made her showing up all the more meaningful.  Laeta was after her and she got a small smile as well.  He didn’t know her well either.  Once, Rudy had made sure to know all in his family but it was obvious he’d slipped on that at some point.  Well, there was another day to focus on what needed to be done.  He had to just remember the words he was going to say!

Avantika came next and for a moment Rudyard remembered their first meeting and compared that with how she had grown and changed so drastically.  Still, she was his little sister to protect even if she was a slightly larger and equally talented fighter.  

Rudy had assumed she would come but seeing mom still had his ears straightened, eyes widened and a strong grin on his face.  One mom couldn’t be there but Tamsyn was and that meant the world to him.  She had to be here for this!  It wouldn’t feel right to not have her getting to witness the moment.  See that?  Her trouble-making son could grow up and get married and he’d be telling his mom later about plans for kids as well. Crap, wait, gotta focus on his vows!  

Sota and Jane also got happy smiles and nods.  He should get to know Sota better.  So much to do but not until after the honeymoon.  Vows, Rudy.  Vows! He had to notice who all came in and get excited as the family grew in the room but he also needed to remember vows!  Rudy normally just trusted himself to say the right thing and he was a damned good smooth talker but he couldn’t just ‘go with it’ this time.

Bowen!  Bowen was back and just in time!  Rudy would be catching up with her right after the wedding!  For now, his thoughts shifted as behind her Fern stepped in.  She looked perfect.  Fern was a solid worker in hunting and fighting and yet today the signs of her work weren’t on her.  The dirt that gets in your coat when kicked up while chasing your prey or in the flow of a fight was nowhere to be seen.  He was used to the scent of the lotion since she’d been using it for a few days but looking at her like this and in this spot and for this moment it seemed all the stronger.  Every detail of this room, the scents and sights were getting permanently locked into his memory.  Fern.  Rudyard said her name silently to himself, naming the beautiful sight as she came up before him.

Art nudged him and Rudy turned his gaze on Art for a fleeting moment with a smirk at the playfulness, but that smirk didn’t hide an ounce of his joy and sense of wonder at this moment.  The look was brief and his focus swiftly back to Fern.

Rudy had always labeled himself as the smooth talker of the family but he had to give Artorias credit.  The words he spoke to Rudy, Fern, and the crowd were wonderful and indeed perfect.  At Art’s symbol, Rudy raised his paw to put on top of Ferns.  Well, Rudyard Carpathius, time to make your words truly count.  Don’t mess up these vows!

Rudy took a breath and then spoke to Fern, his voice sincere and soft but for the sake of the family watching still in a voice that would carry for all to hear.  Let them all bear witness to what he said and swore to.

“Fern, you are about to share the Carpathius name, to become a member of our family officially.  Let there be no doubt I gave you my heart long back. You are an amazing wolf.  You were new here, and uncertain at the time but you still chose to trust me when I asked.  Then, you saved my life.  What’s more, you saved my soul.  I had lost sight of anything good in life.  I gave you so little of me while I sank into depression and sickness and yet you came back to me.  You showed me there was still joy in life.” Rudy’s smile twisted a bit in amusement at a special memory, “You even told me how good I looked without a tail.” Silly memory, yet one he treasured.

“Since then we continued to grow closer.  At this point I wonder how I survived without you.  Despite the rough start you’ve never doubted me.  Fern, I swear I will do whatever I can to fill your life with joy and make each one meaningful.  My goal in life now is simply to help you achieve yours.  Any other goals will come after your own.  I only request that stay with me forever.  I want to share every good moment, every bad moment with you.  I’ll do all I can to never let anything hurt you, to make all your memories good.  However, should the bad arise know that I will be there to support you and love you.” A pause before adding again to take the point home, “I love you, you are the second half of my soul.”

A small nod to indicate completion of his vows.

"Rudyard & Fern"

This day will live forever in Fern’s memory and, years from now, when she looks back on today, she will remember all the love that lives these moments. Her walk down the aisle feels slow, as if every weightless step takes a million hours to complete. Blue eyes do not miss the smiling faces of the sunflowers that have been placed everywhere and the gray woman’s heart swells a little more with appreciation and love for her new family. Finally, she is standing before Rudy, eyes brimming with boundless adoration as she meets his golden eyes.

Fern allows her gaze to linger on Rudyard’s face for a moment, her breath catching in her throat as she realizes that this is not dream and they are really doing this. A soft, dreamy smile rests on pale lips as she shifts her focus to Artorias and listens to his words. They float through the air, going into her ears and slowly processing in her brain. The smile brightens as they are told to give their vows and her attention once more shifts to the wolf that has her heart. Rudyard begins and the gray woman hangs on his every word, cherishing them and allowing them to build her up.

Rudy dips his head, signaling the completion of his vows and Fern allows his voice to fade away before beginning her own. Pale paw moves to cover one of Rudyard’s and her voice fills the air as she says, “Rudyard, from the moment I met you, I knew you were special. As we spent more time together I realized just how special you are. Before we met, my life was filled with darkness and regrets. Since that fateful night that pulled our lives together, I have found the light I needed, in you. Your light guided me back, showing me how to enjoy to life and what true joy is.”

She pauses, taking a small breath and allowing her smile to grow before continuing, “From this day forward, I make this promise to you; I will be with you in the good times and the bad. I will stand at your side no matter what storms come our way and support you in every endeavor you make. I will to be your partner in everything and help to ease your burdens. Rudyard Carpathius, I love you with all my heart and soul. You are my other half, my soul mate. I will be yours from this day until the end of time.” Fern takes a deep breath as she shifts her gaze to Art, letting him know she is done while also silently asking if she did okay.


"Rudyard & Fern"

Artorias listened as both wolves before him professed their love and loyalty to one another. Rudyard spoke of his salvation with Fern, of family, of protection and support. He was very proud of his brother for his lovely and heartfelt words. Fern spoke of finding herself with Rudy, of joy, of commitment. She finished and looked to him, and Artorias gave her a subtle nod of approval. Both of them had done well and spoken truly from their hearts. No one could ask any more of them. "Rudyard, do you take Fern to be your wife, to love and to cherish, to provide for and protect, for as long as you both shall live?" He waited for Rudy to affirm his vow, then fixed his gaze on Fern. "Fern, do you take Rudyard to be your husband, to love and to cherish, to provide for and protect, for as long as you both shall live?" Once Fern had affirmed her vows as well, Artorias gave the happy couple a proud smile and nodded his head.

"Then by the authority vested in me by my title of Aegis, I hereby pronounce you husband and wife! Rudy, you may now kiss your bride." Artorias would wait for Rudy and Fern to share their affections before stomping his paws on the ground to start up applause for the newlyweds. "It is my honor to introduce Rudyard and Fern Carpathius! Felicitări! To the newlyweds!" Artorias tipped his muzzle to the sky and sang an elated howl for his brother and sister-in-law, inviting any in the pack who wished to join in serenading the couple in their praise. "The reception is now open to all! Please, eat, drink, and celebrate Rudy and Fern!" With the ceremony concluded, Artorias stepped aside to allow Rudy and Fern to mingle amongst their guests and get the feast started in full swing. This was a joyous occasion for all to partake in!

"Artorias" | "Carpathian" | "Corbin" | "Eira" | "Argent"