we’ve had a good run, haven’t we?

Artorias swallowed thickly as he fought to hold his emotions in as Laeta rather matter-of-factly told him what he already knew. There was no way to tell when her time would come. It could be in a day, a week, hell even a month if they were fortunate. But there was no doubt left in Artorias' mind that their story was coming to a close, and there was only one way this could end. He swallowed again, throat tight as the glistening blue hints of tears began to appear in the corners of his fire opal eyes. Her movement in his peripheral brought Art's eyes from his child down to his dear friend, seeing the vibrant life still in her wine-hued eyes, the smile on her face, as if Death itself could not steal her spirit or her light away from her. Gods, Artorias wished he had half the courage and heart that she did. Putting on a brave face felt like more strength than he could ever muster up.

But Laeta further tested his emotional fortitude when she spoke the sweetest and sincerest words, counting each day she was with them a blessing and recounting her time with the Hallows as her happiest. That would have been enough to break Artorias down into tears entirely, but he managed to hold himself together with just a shuddering breath as he tried to rein in his whirlwind emotions. "Having you in the Hallows, as a part of our family, has been the greatest honor and pleasure, Lae. All our lives are forever better for having you in them," Artorias spoke in low tones just for her, craning his neck down so he could nuzzle his friend and confidant's forehead with gentle affection. "I wouldn't be where I am today were it not for your guidance and support. I can never thank you enough for all the love and camaraderie you've brought to us, Lady Laeta of the Hallows." Melancholic amber eyes turned down to the badger at her side, stalwart as he had ever been. "And you as well, Sir Melis of the Hallows. You are both more loved than can ever be shown."

"Artorias Carpathius" | "Carpathian"