These Peaceful Interludes

Being an alpha had come with its own sets of challenges Artorias had never expected to face. With Ulric preparing to leave the Hallows and everything sitting squarely on his shoulders now, he had realized just how busy the life of an alpha truly was. It seemed Briar was also learning her new role's challenges and trials as well, and while he watched her settle almost seamlessly into her title, it did make it difficult to carve out some time for just the two of them to do the couples-y things together that they were used to. While they were still working to find their balance between ruling and their personal lives, Artorias wanted to take the time to do something sweet for Briar to show his love for her and how proud he was of her stepping into leadership along with him like she was born for it. He'd gathered some things up for a picnic, hunted down his beloved by her heat scent, and dragged her away from her duties to share an afternoon together.

Artorias had never been to the Cedar Falls beyond when he'd come to rescue Rudy, so he thought it would be the perfect opportunity for the two Hallowed alphas to get to know the lands of Auster a bit better too. Leading the way through the forest of cedar trees, he gazed around at the towering trees in awe. The forest was beautiful, and thankfully the rains of Auster's winter had held at bay for the day, so sunlight streamed down in golden rays from the canopy overhead. Following the sound of flowing water, Artorias led the way to the aptly named falls, beaming at how picturesque the area was. It was perfect!

"Here we are!" Artorias declared while he unrolled a blanket of deer furs near the bank of the river for them to lie on. Slipping off the bag hanging around his neck, he began to unpack their meal—two legs of mutton, a bottle of sweet mead, and a bag of seasonal berries covered in some of the crystal sugar he and Bowen had brought back from the Lazuli Falls. Artorias collapsed gratefully with a sigh to the comfy furs, gazing with love up at Briar while he patted the blanket beside him. "Care to join me, Lady Fatalis?" he asked with a teasing smile.

"Artorias Carpathius" | "Carpathian"