The Heart Wants What It Wants

The two wolves settled into an easy lope around the circuit of cobblestone paths that looped the garden courtyard, enjoying the warm day and beautiful autumn foliage around them. Memento confirmed that she had been enjoying her time with the Hallows, even going on to recount how her companions were happier and felt safe here. That brought a smile to Artorias' lips; all he had ever wanted to do from the moment he had been crowned Aegis was to uphold his mother's vision of a sanctuary to all who needed it. The alpha gave a bright chuckle as he imagined the dour jackal actually smiling. It reminded him of his late mother's companions, both jackals who had also been relentlessly stern in their demeanor. Maybe it was a jackal thing? "Well, it gladdens me to know that we've earned a coveted seal of approval from Jacques! I know how notoriously hard to please jackals can be." Again he chuckled, glad to see that the gentle gait of their walk seemed to make the conversation easier for them to share.

The words that followed had been exactly what the hopeful Aegis had held out for. He had never once doubted that the Hallows would prove to be a hospitable home to Meme, but ultimately the decision had to be hers to make whether she wanted to carve out a life for herself amongst them. The smile on Art's lips grew the more she spoke, enlightening him to her delight of teaching the children of the pack, offering up her knowledge and wisdom to them as well as her prowess in battle to defend the pack. "It would be our honor to welcome you in as a part of our family, Meme," he replied, turning kind fire-toned eyes her way. "You're a kind-hearted and gentle soul, exactly the type of nurturing individual the Hallows thrives with. I'm so happy you chose to stay with us." Artorias brought their walk towards the large fountain at the center of the gardens, striding up to the edge and leaning forward to rest his paws against the ledge. He watched the water flowing in the basin for a moment before turning his attention back to his newest Hallowed wolf once more. "You've shown a great wealth of knowledge, so I'm inclined to agree, I think being a tutor and one of the pack's educators is your calling. While I won't forget your fighting skills, I'd rather you do what you're passionate about. I'm certain the pups will be ecstatic to hear you'll be their forever teacher."

Artorias laughed as he imagined the energetic mirth his children would no doubt show to learning Meme would be staying to tutor them. "I think this will be good for Ezra too. Ever since his father and sisters left, I've been concerned for him. It's not easy feeling the weight of your family name on your back, y'know? I think having you around will bring him some comfort, so on his behalf, thank you." That only left two things remaining to settle, and Art fixed curious eyes to the slightly smaller woman at his side. "So, now that you'll be staying with us, I'd like to give you your own personal room. A space for yourself to decorate and use as you wish. Feel free to pick from any open room on the second floor or higher and we'll get you settled in. You'll need an official rank to match your talents too. Would you prefer to begin as a Scholar, or as one of our Specialists?" Memento certainly had the aptitude, she could choose as she desired.

"Artorias Carpathius"