Together, We Grow Stronger

As his father spoke, Charlie listened, attentive. He was right, it had been a big change, and he had needed to adapt quickly. A task he felt that his siblings had managed to do faster than he had. But it was not a race; the yearling was proud that they were all growing, all of them developing their skills and making something of themselves. They all had potential, and knowing he had proved his resolve to learn, to adapt, to his father made the tawny yearling feel immensely proud. He gave a small nod to his father, to the Warlord of the Armada, gaze shining as he spoke to Sirius directly. There had always been a high level of respect from Charlie for the man, but this time, he was speaking not just as a son, but as a fellow pack member.

“I’ll be honest with you, Warlord…” His words were clear, yet they held that softness and sincerity that Charlie had when speaking with his loved ones. His lips came up in a bright, confident smile, but he shook his head. “I don’t know the final path I wish to take from this point. I have every intention of continuing to climb through the ranks of the Armada… but I am uncertain which path calls to me most yet.” He spoke honestly. Smile fading, but not in a frown. There was a serious look on his face when he spoke his next words.

“What I do know is no matter the path I end up taking, I will protect our family, our pack, and the lands we call home with everything I have. None will question the strength of the Armada or find a weak link here.” His gaze would shift then to his companion and Silveris, sensing it was now time to join him, flew over to Charlie. Her wing would brush against his cheek in an affectionate greeting before she purchased herself above a shoulder. Charlie would allow his smile to return before he looked back to his father. “...and I’m going to do it with the companions I know I can count on. We’re going to work until we move and breathe as one. There won’t be any more mistakes in the future.” A promise.

He would move forward then, closing the gap between himself and Sirius. The boy would give his father a hug, feeling warmth spread through him. He hadn’t really hugged Sirius much since he was a young pup… but it felt appropriate to do so now. His voice became gentle. “I love you dad.”

"Speech," 'Thought.'