A Farewell, But Never Goodbye

To say it pleased Artorias to hear Memento Mori speak so highly of the Hallows and their family within it would have been a gross understatement. Though every wolf he lost was a blow to his heart, nothing made the Aegis feel more like his purpose in life had a deep resounding meaning than seeing how each and every single one of them walked from their home with pride and confidence, stronger than they had ever been before. The Hallows was a place of healing and restoration, a fresh start for those who needed it. Every wolf who left stronger was another success story and another memory he would reflect on when he was feeling sentimental. They parted from their hug and Meme reassured him that she would always remember her home here, and that she would be intending to attend their Bonfire Festival, perhaps even with Skorgek. Art's expression lit up at the notion. "By all means! The more, the merrier!" It would be good to see friends old and new with them to celebrate such an important event.

Meme wasn't finished yet though. Artorias listened with vested interest as the fae began to describe how being with Skorgek made her feel, and the more Memento spoke, the more a knowing smile crept across the dire brute's face. She may not have known what she was feeling, but it was an emotion Artorias knew well. When she finished speaking and it was apparent she was seeking his counsel, Art could only chuckle and shoot Meme a look that said he understood everything. "Oh, I know exactly how you feel, Meme," he assured her. "It's like... you could be standing in a crowded room, but she's the only one you see. You live to hear the moments of her laughter, and her smile makes you feel like the greatest champion in the world. She makes you feel like the best parts of yourself all the time." Yes, he was describing his relationship with Briar, but true love was a universal language that every heart could understand and speak. Art still felt like a lovestruck yearling whenever he was with Briar. Maybe he was just a sappy romantic at heart. "My advice? Be true to yourself. It was you that brought Skorgek to you in the first place, and it's those same qualities that she wants to see every day. Don't worry yourself over if it's right or thinking she doesn't feel the same. Don't force yourself to move at someone else's pace. Just be you, don't even think about it. If it's easy and natural being together, then it's meant to be." Artorias gave another shrug and a playful nudge to Meme's shoulder. "And if it isn't meant to be, well... we've got a hell of a lotta wine to help drown sorrows."

"Artorias Carpathius" | "Carpathian"