The Sparse Pines

It was the silly little moments he shared with Briar that really made Artorias appreciate all the perfect nuances of their relationship together. If anyone had asked him why he knew Briar was meant to be his mate, it would be the times they got to be their silly, happy, natural selves with one another that he would recollect. Having the openness to just be himself and enjoy his time with her and know she was happy and comfortable being the same with him was what made him feel their relationship was perfect. She didn't chide him for being silly or chastise him for his humor, she embraced him and loved him for who he was. For that, Artorias would always love and be thankful for Briar.

His suggestion of heading back to the Armada for some quality time warming each other up was met at first with a sultry glance from his wife, but that quickly turned into an exasperated roll of her eyes and a giggle when he made an exaggerated display of trying to be suggestive. Briar responded by swatting at the back of his thigh with her silken tail, and Artorias gave another dramatic gasp and shot Briar an amorous look, complete with sly grin and all. "Briar Carpathius! Making advances on my virtue out here in the open? How bold!" he teased her with his theatrics, but was quick to fall into light shivers and quiet murrs when she nibbled at his jaw, his own teeth nipping back at the edge of her ear before she pulled away. "Gladly. Lead the way, beautiful." Artorias motioned in the direction of the Armada, then cut through the pine forest back towards their waiting den—and the thinly veiled promises of what would come when they got there.

"Artorias Carpathius"