Into the night

Despite his high station and reputation, the Aegis of the Hallows was really just a giant puppy at heart. Playing and frolicking in the snow with Mercury had brought out that playful nature in him, a side he didn’t really hide, but not one he showed to many wolves either. Mercury was getting to see a side of Artorias reserved for those closest to him. Maybe it was a subtle subconscious show of how he felt about the other man, allowing him into his inner circle so readily. Merc just had an aura about him that inspired trust, confidence, and camaraderie. Maybe that was why he fit so well into the Hallows.

At his offer, the dark-furred dire wolf chose to continue their moonlit walk. The suggestion of a native tea the Ermis man knew was tempting, but Art was inclined to agree with his friend’s first choice in this moment. "A walk sounds splendid, actually," he remarked with an easy grin. "You can share some of that tea with me when he get back and we need a way to warm up." Thanks to his thicker coat, even being used to the warmer Auster climate didn't leave the dire wolf vulnerable to the cold. He motioned for Merc to follow him with a causal tip of his head, beginning a leisurely pace across the snow-covered plains. Artorias didn't say much as they began their walk anew, enjoying the comfortable silence between the two males for a spell. He figured if Mercury wanted to talk about anything, from casual banter to deeper conversation, he would. And sometimes the best way to be there for someone in need was just to be present with them. That's what he wanted to offer Mercury—whatever he needed from Art.

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