you become what you hate

News of a pack challenge travelled quick and far, and when it involved some of his own family, the Lord of Cinder would be there to bear witness and offer his support to his friends. Word of the Insomnia wolf separating from the bosom of that wretch alpha to stake his own claim would have otherwise been no cause for attention from the Hallows, but when he learned that the challenged was his brother-in-law, then the stakes changed. It was enough to get Artorias up to Boreas, kitted in his armor with Embershard slung across his back, just in case. With him, Briar and Bramble had made the journey to witness Kotori fight to defend his home and his pack, here to support in spirit and to make sure nothing got out of hand. Gatherings like pack challenges tended to attract unsavory attention, but it was important for Bramble to observe and learn how packs rose and fell, how the challenges were handled, the decorum that went into them. These would all be valuable lessons to the newly appointed Envoy if she was to lead the diplomatic efforts of their pack.

Artorias crested the hills that overlooked the Battlefield with his family just as Kotori was arriving and preparing for the fight. Amber eyes scoured the scene, analyzing the wolf that stood opposed to the reigning Fatalis. The resemblance to Recluse could not be ignored; this was one of her children that had gone turncoat against his family and chosen to remain in Insomnia. Was this his attempt to break away for freedom, or was he acting as a pawn for the deranged skeletal bitch? A scowl painted the Lord's face as he regarded the wolf, but ultimately kept his attention focused on Kotori. Nearby, he saw Ochi and Sirius watching as well, offering their support to Valta. Art motioned for the ladies to follow him, then led the way over to squarely plant their support on Kotori's side. There would be no question where the Hallows' allegiance laid when it came to family.

Once settled in to watch the fight, Artorias leaned over to Bramble and spoke in hushed tones to her. "Urmărește cu atenție. Acesta este cât de repede se poate schimba lumea." There was only one major rule to these sorts of events that Bramble needed to keep in mind while they were here. "Vom urmări, dar nu facem nimic pentru a interveni. Aceasta este lupta unchiului Kotori pentru a câștiga." No matter what, they would not get involved unless they were directly threatened—but that's what his sword was for. Hopefully he wouldn't have to draw his blade today. Then, leaning over to whisper to Briar, Art spoke in low tones, "If Kotori fails, we'll need to get Bowen out immediately." A challenge for Valta had definitely not been something the Lord had expected when he'd loaned her to Kotori.

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