Through New Eyes

Briar returned his vow of love and told him he didn't need to say anything, and Artorias knew he didn't have to, but he would always want to. He never wanted a single second of Briar's life to be spent doubting or worrying over the love they shared. This pure, passionate and intense love that had blossomed from the seed of puppy rivalry into a magnificent thing. It was what brought Artorias true joy to his heart. She brought him true joy and peace. With every moment they spent together, every little gesture she performed showed him there was no limit to her devotion to him. Artorias had long since vowed to always be worthy of her love and devotion, but this trial had reaffirmed that commitment to her. He was hers, and she was his, for as long as she would want him.

Artorias noticed the way something in Briar's eyes shifted and the way her bright smile faltered at the corners, suddenly infinitely more perceptive of her every little expression and gesture. She was very good at hiding when something was bothering her, but Artorias knew Briar well enough to know when she was pulling a poker face or being genuine. He felt her muzzle brush against his and returned her gentle kiss, but when she tried to pull away with the offer of breakfast, Artorias refused to let her go. His strong forelegs wrapped tighter around Briar's side, denying her any chance to get up just yet. Restored amber eyes gazed into deep pools of turquoise, his smile slipping from his lips as well, wishing he could see through her eyes into her mind to know what had robbed her of her joy. He didn't know... but he had a hunch.

"Stay," he asked her in the soft stillness of the dark morning. A large blue paw drifted slowly up over Briar's side to rest on the side of her neck, holding her like he was moments away from watching his true love slip away. Slowly he brought his lips closer to claim hers in a slow, loving kiss, pulling apart only an inch after a few blissful moments. "There might not be any more stepped on toes... maybe some bumping still... but please, stay. Just for a bit longer." He knew he couldn't ask Briar to stay forever yet. She had duties and commitments to her family first, and he would insist on walking her back home to make sure she got there safely, but Artorias wasn't ready to let go of his Briar just yet. Not when the world still felt like it could fall apart at a moment's notice.

"Artorias Carpathius"