twilight of the thunder god

Artorias watches the way the young brute unwinds himself from around his daughter, wrapping her up in his bear pelt to keep her warm. It earns the viking lad major points in the Lord of Cinder's eyes. All he's ever wanted for his children was their happiness, health, and partners who cared for and loved them. What he's seeing between Ember and Erik right now brings a subtle smile to the older wolf's lips. As Erik speaks and tells his story, Artorias listens with growing concern for Víðarr. He had held good favor with the viking king and respected the man as the Trygg patriarch. To hear he was in such a state weighed heavy on Artorias' heart. Darkness clouded Artorias' bright fire-toned eyes while Erik explained Víðarr's condition. Was this all to do with the loss of his wife? Tenshi's sudden death had worried Art for how it might affect the man, for he did so love his wife.

There was no doubt in Artorias' mind when Erik asked for their aid. He would have offered asylum and care to Víðarr regardless of Erik's offer to help serve the Hallows, but seeing the young man stand up for his father's wellbeing spoke volumes about Erik's character, and that inspired Art when he considered that with the relationship Erik seemed to be fostering with his daughter. Ember's vocal support was unsurprising, but it went a long way to show her trust for Erik, and her commitment to the Hallows' values. He was proud of his daughter for supporting the wolf that had won her affections.

Addressing his daughter first, Artorias spoke in calm, warm tones to her, "Toți sunt bineveniți aici." Fiery eyes brightened and his expression softened once more as he regarded Erik with a welcoming smile and a nod of his head. "You and Víðarr are always welcome here, Erik. I would have taken him into our care even without your noble offer, but I won't be fool enough to refuse your help around the pack either." Art chuckled and gave a deep nod of his head to Erik. "Welcome to your new home, for as long as you wish it to be."

Artorias knew this would be a relief to the weary Erik, and it would elate Ember too. He didn't know how bad Víðarr's condition was yet until he saw the man and got him settled in to be checked out by Gwynevere, but he trusted they'd have the skills and resources to help the once king. That did however raise a curious question... "So, where is your father?" Art cast a curious glance at Erik, tipping his head to one side. "Is he ambulatory, or do we need to go fetch him?"

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