Servicing

Artorias didn't resist or rebuke Lia's advances while she tended to him during his storytelling. He liked the way her paw felt running over his and stroking against rough pads like a softer version of the massage she'd given him just minutes before. He gave a small nod when she said she would call Briar her Lady until she made a decision on what she preferred. That seemed wise, and again Artorias was struck by how well trained Lia was. Even if she wasn't any older than he was, she had clearly taken the lessons given to her and internalized them so deeply so quickly. Whether it was out of survival or a show of her own intellect, it was impressive. He had no doubts she would do well in service to Briar, and to himself when they got the chance to be reunited again in the Hallows.

"I'm sure you won't have any problems. Briar is lovely and I'm sure you two will get along great," he said with that easy smile that came naturally to him. He was glad to see some life beginning to return to those fiery eyes. She asked about his living arrangements, and her question did bring a small bit of reluctant sadness to his eyes. Yes, he was bringing her back to the Armada and leaving her there. Given the moment they were sharing, it didn't exactly feel like the greatest thing—but he had bought her for a purpose, not for himself. She was his learning experience and Briar's new handmaiden. Sirius had paid for her for that reason. The future would no doubt shift and change their dynamic, but for now, it was the way it had to be.

"I don't. I live in another pack further south called the Hallows. It was my mother's pack... and it will be my pack within the year," he explained as simply as he could. "You and Briar will come to live in the Hallows as soon as she and her father agree she can, but until then, you both will live in the Armada temporarily. Once I am alpha of the Hallows and have everything ready for you both, I'll come and take you home." He waited with bated breath to see Lia's reaction. He didn't want to disappoint Lia, but he needed her to understand how their lives would go for the foreseeable future.

"Artorias" | "Corbin" | "Argent"