long time coming

The relationship fostered between the Empress and the Aegis had become one Artorias treasured dearly. When he'd risen to leadership, he had been concerned for his own lack of diplomacy skills, concerned how he would get along with his peers from other packs. The longer he reigned as Aegis thought, the more he was learning those fears were unfounded. Since becoming an alpha, Artorias had found more kinship within other alphas than he had ever known. Venom was someone he held in close confidence to himself, and while the younger alpha oft wore his heart on his sleeve, allowing anyone to get close to it was a rarity few experienced. Venom may as well have been a sister to him (to the best of his knowledge, there was no shared blood, but one would never know with his uncertain lineage) and someone who's friendship and opinions Art valued greatly. In truth, the Hallows and Ashen had been veritable allies long before this conversation, a shared affection and affinity binding them unofficially. With the ink drying on their metaphorical treaty, now their relationship would be recognized by all and be beyond contestation.

When he pledged his life to fight for and defend Ashen if they were ever needed, Artorias had meant it with every fiber of his being. That was why he knew he could trust the sincerity in Venom when she repeated the same sentiment back to him. There was no doubt in his mind that were the walls of the Hallows ever put to siege, he could count on his friends in the north to stand by his side, and vice versa. Though she did not directly mention or confirm his suspicions, the wink she gave him said it all, and the sapphire-coated brute turned a knowing smirk to the Empress. He was happy for and proud of her for the recovery she had made in the wake of her separation from her ex-husband. Though he had never doubted someone like Venom would have been able to find another suitor in no time, finding one that brightened her the way she seemed now compared to when he had met her was a godsend.

"And I will remember that, Venom," he replied when she offered the same open hospitality to him and his wolves. Her remark about the industriousness of the Hallows drew a humble smile and chuckle from him, ears flattening back in a bashful display while he shrugged his shoulders. "Everyone in the Hallows enjoys contributing to the pack and the greater good. I'm so very proud of them all, and we enjoy the bounty of their combined skills." Though it seemed Ashen had plenty to offer in the way of trade as well, including a plethora of exotic vegetation and fruits, luxuries, and idyllic vacation spots. "The Empire truly is prosperous," he said with an impressed raised of his brows. Venom then raised her goblet, toasting their new alliance and a longstanding friendship. It was easy for the Aegis to return the Empress' easy smile and lift his own goblet to clink the edge against hers. "To friendship and the longevity of the Empire and the Hallows. Noroc."

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