The first rays of sunshine

It felt strange that, at last, Charlie was an adult. He had a rank within the Armada since he was a yearling, but reaching adulthood was yet another milestone. Something to be proud of. The young man had spent most of the day keeping busy, working with Yorrick and Silveris to make some special items to bring to the party. The rods of metal had some materials wrapped together with twine on the end to make a sort of sparkler for him and his siblings. Charlie didn’t expect them to burn long, but hey, it was the thought that counted, right? Something to celebrate them making this far. He made one for Dread and Vanta too. Even if they weren’t here, they still deserved to be included. They were his family.

With the makeshift sparklers in his maw Charlie set off for the beach. This time he came alone, his companions hanging back to clean up their work station. He’d be one of the first to arrive, setting the sparklers down a safe distance from the fire before giving a nod to his father. The young man had left his brace at home but, around his ankles, were the cuffs that were the present of his first birthday. Around his right ear he wore an accessory of jay feathers, a decorative piece that he had made. Knowing his father would have plenty of wolves to greet, Charlie made his way over to the femme who had arrived.

“I hope you’ll enjoy the party as well. My name is Charlie, what’s yours?”

"Speech," 'Thought.'