It was hard to believe that it had already been a year. A year since the day he and Briar had brought five new wonderful little lives into the world. A year since they had been blessed with the most amazing gifts they could receive. A year since they had taken that leap into parenthood and their lives had forever been changed for the better. Artorias found it hard to believe as he gazed at the sleeping forms of his children, almost fully grown into the wolves they had become and would continue to be. Thorn, Ciaran, Dusk, Talyssa, Bramble... His heart swelled with pride and love as he looked over each of them in turn. Surely his heart would burst if it tried to contain any more joy and affection for them. Thinking of them no longer sharing the spacious alpha's chambers, moving into their own rooms, growing up and becoming more independent... it was bittersweet and yet a milestone he was so happy to have reached with them.

It was still dark, the morning sun only just beginning to rise, but Artorias had work to do. He and Briar had hidden away their pups' birthday gifts for the better part of a month, making sure they weren't discovered early by snooping eyes. They had been successful, and now the time to surprise their children was at hand. The plan had been made: Artorias would use his early routine to get the final preparations made, and when morning broke, Briar would usher their kids down to their surprises in the Great Hall. The corners of his lips turned upwards in a loving smile as the patriarch looked over his family again, then silently slipped out of the bedchambers and made his way downstairs. The gifts had been stashed away in the cellars, so he was quick to fetch them and bring them to the armory, where he proceeded to wrap each of them in fine canvas and tie them up with ribbon with the help of his ravens. Then he returned to set the gifts out on the alpha's table at the head of the hall.

With everything set up and ready, Artorias waited in the Great Hall for Briar to wrangle their kids so they could begin celebrating their birth season with their coming of age. That bittersweet feeling returned to him once more, strangling his heart with memories that nearly brought tears to his eyes. He vividly remembered his first birthday... He remembered his mother in self-imposed incarceration as she slowly succumbed to her disease, speaking to them through the bars of Hearthstone's jails as they got their gifts. He vowed that his own children would never have to experience the traumas or horrors he had faced, not so long as he lived. But today was not a day for somber remembrance. This was their time, and he was going to show them all the joy and love they brought to him every day.

"Carpathius Family"

Briar blinked open her eyes to the early morning sunlight as it just began to peak through the curtains that were drawn over the windows. In truth, it was rare for her to be up quite this early, but today was a special day so her own excitement got her up just as their children began to stir. It was still so strange sitting up in the bed she shared with Artorias and looking over to see nearly fully grown yearlings instead of a pile of small, cuddling pups. They would be moving out soon into their own spaces, spreading their wings and continuing to mature... It was all incredibly bitter sweet. She did her best not to focus on the part of her that yearned for them to stay small, young, and innocent forever, but instead focused her attention on the part of her that was so proud of the wolves they were becoming and her excitement to see them continue to grow and find their own paths.

Slipping out of bed, she gave herself a quick shake and then started going around to each of their children, rousing them from their sleep and getting them out of their beds with the promise of a special birthday breakfast. While that was certainly true, there was a bigger surprise than just breakfast waiting for them in the great hall. After getting even their most sleepy and stubborn children up and out of the bedroom, she followed them down the stairs and down the corridor that brought them to the great hall where Artorias was already waiting with their wrapped up gifts. She couldn't keep the grin from her features as she came over to join them. They had been working on these gifts for quite a while, figuring out what each of them might want and like and personalizing them to each of their children. She leaned into Artorias' shoulder for a moment, giving him a kiss on the cheek before beginning to help him with passing out each pup's gift.

"Carpathius Family"

Sleep wasn’t often a very restful experience for her- for even as she laid deeply unconscious among her siblings, her astral self was in the wind and stars. Ranging beyond what was familiar, and making up what she had yet to see. She climbed the tallest mountains with ease, she swam entire oceans in moments. As she began to hear the dawn birds sing, she found the most beautiful flowering forest. And just as she began her walk through a shower of petals, she became aware of her mother’s gentle voice calling her home

Talyssa’s pale gaze fluttered open as she blinked away the sleepiness that wasn’t quite ready to release her.  She offered a hazy grin to her mother as she rigidly pulled herself into a sitting position. “Bună dimineața, Mami” She greeted softly, followed by a stifled yawn. She glanced toward her parent’s bed, seeing her father had already left on his morning patrol- which was typical. However, what did catch her attention was the mention of a birthday breakfast. With a slow wag of her tail, she rose to her paws as she made her way out of their family’s room, and down to the great hall- momentarily leaving her mother behind to rouse her more stubborn siblings.

As she ventured out of the foyer and into the hall, her father’s massive frame came into view near the alpha’s table. Talyssa was met with surprised confusion, coming to a stop as she glanced toward the windows to gauge time. It was still early- early enough that she expected her sire to still be out on his patrol. With a sleepy grin and an inquiring set to her brow, she continued on, gently clearing her throat to speak. “Bună dimineața, Tati. Este totul în regulă?” She asked as she approached the elevated platform. It was easy to see the five bundles situated atop the table. But before she could process that, she wanted to gain insight on the circumstance that had led her father to either skip patrol or return early. The birthday breakfast her mother had mentioned, long forgotten.
"Talyssa Carpathius"

It was no secret that their birthday was tomorrow so it had been difficult for Dusk to sleep. She had been speaking with her aunt Iolaire and had asked what birthdays were all about. The dark child had been informed that there was usually a party with food and family and presents. PRESENTS? Yes, food and family were fine, but presents?! Sleep had evaded the young Carpathius for a long while. Even the gentle sound of her sleeping siblings even breathing hadn't lulled her to sleep as it usually did. It was well into the night before Dusk was able to shut off her mind and find sleep.

Such expectancy and mental stimulation had Dusks consciousness on a hair trigger. The moment that her father's breathing changed and he began to stir, fire opal eyes shot open. She watched him prepare and, when he looked back at them, closed her eyes just to pretend that she was still asleep. Why? She couldn't rightly say, but she had done it. Dusk watched as her father left the room and was tempted to sneakily follow, but decided to stay where she was in the end. Besides... she was smack dab in the middle of a pile of brothers and sisters. It wouldn't be easy to get up without waking them.

Dusk waited and waited and waited and waited for the sun to show its face and for her family to wake. The very instant that her mother's voice sounded, the obsidian girl was on her paws. Talyssa roused the rest of them, but no one had needed to wake Dusk. No doubt she would be insanely tired later, but for now, she was wired for sound. As her earthen-hued sister was being dutiful, Dusk leaned up and kissed her mother's chin. "Morning, Momma!"

Together, the lot of them made their way downstairs and into the main hall. Dusks long, midnight tail swept back and forth over the stone floor as she made her way forward towards where her father sat. She ducked beneath his chin and gave him a kiss as well. "Morning, Dadda," the youngling greeted her sire, then stepped aside so the rest of the brood could do the same. Breakfast? Presents? A day all for herself? Did life get any better than that?

"Dusk Carpathius"

Kea woke to his mothers green eyes, and a grin was already forming on his muzzle. He reached out a paw and playfully swatted at one of her ivory antlers. Barely touching it before a yawn split his muzzle, distracting him. He shook out the feel of sleep and got to his paws. Eager to see what special breakfast awaited them.

He followed his siblings down, noticing a certain kind of air of anticipation in Dusk. Did she know something he didn’t? He squinted at her, but didn’t glean any insight before they arrived. He was surprised and pleased to see their dad there, waiting for them. Having breakfast with both of their parents was a nice surprise - Art was usually out on patrol in the mornings.

But that wasn’t the only surprise. His eyes snagged on wrapped items on the table, and his tail began to beat behind him. What was this? Was this for them? Was this like the birthday bash they had gone to in the Armada. Were they getting presents?

"Ciaran Carpathius"

Bramble was content to sleep in that day. Knowing it was their birthdays, she was glad to not have to get up to train or patrol. Not that she didn’t love it, but everyone needed a break! Unfortunately and fortunately, she would not get to sleep away the day. She would be gentle roused from sleep as she blinked bleary eyes up at her mom. An instant smile graced her lips as she rolled over onto her back and stretched out her long limbs. “Morning mum,” Bramble murmured as she rubbed away the sleepiness with a big yawn. As the rest of her siblings got up to leave, she too got to her paws. While still a bit clumsy, Bramble was slowly finding her grace. Following the others out into the hall, she made sure to bump into her siblings and laugh along as they made their way down into the great hall where their father awaited. At the sight of Artorias, Bramble’s tail began to wag excitedly. Rushing up to greet him with her own kiss upon his cheek, she pressed her face against his neck in a warm embrace. “Morning dad,” she greeted happily before pulling away and moving to sit beside Kea. Making sure to tug a bit on his tail before sitting down, she leaned into her brother since she noticed he was looking a tad suspicious. “Those have to be for us, right?” Bramble whispered to him while unable to hide the grin on her face and excitement in her body as she wiggled in place. Bramble Carpathius

Thorn had gone to bed with the knowledge he would be going to sleep as a pup but tomorrow he would be a full year old.  He’d been chomping on the bit from puppyhood to get older and aimed for more intense training with a sword.  The idea of being a year old certainly felt more adult-like in his mind.  The once small pup had grown, and it felt for a while as if he was growing inches every day!  Puppy fat had been turning into muscle from all the time he spent exercising and practicing.  Thorn slept easily most nights, and this one was no exception.  There was some sort of magic in lying down alongside family, that soothed the soul, erasing any excitement or concerns and let one drift off to blissful dark sleep.  The breathing and warmth of his siblings were like a thick blanket of warmth and security.

It felt as if he had just gone to bed when Mom was waking them up.  Thorn always fell asleep with his belly on the ground but once he fell asleep he’d end up rolled over with his belly in the air and front paws tucked into his chest.  When mom came by a half-awake Thorn’s paw stretched out, potentially smacking anyone in its path.  Opening his eyes Mom got a lick of good morning before Thorn rolled himself up and onto his feet. “Morning Mom.”

Birthday breakfast sounded great!  His attention quickly went to Dusk and the energy radiating from her.  The boy grinned at her energy, hoping that whatever Dusk was imagining indeed came to pass.  He recalled the party at the Armada and wondered how the Armada party would compare to the hallows.  Breakfast first, then they’d see what else the day had to offer.

Thorn made his way down with the family to the great hall, spying his dad had also come for the breakfast meal.  It only took a split second longer to see not only was dad here but presents.  Presents!!  Thorn had been forcing himself not to expect something that might not happen which was really hard with an awareness of Dusk’s excitement.  Now, the boy’s grin stretched his face, teeth exposed before jogging over to bump his forehead into his dad’s shoulder for a moment.  “Morning Dad!”

Thorn took a spot for himself at the table, close to where Dad sat, and with his eyes trained on the wrapped presents as he tried to imagine what might be in each one and wondered who would get which.

"Carpathius Family"

Artorias wasn't left waiting long before he heard the parade of almost adult paws come marching into the Great Hall. He was already smiling as he looked up to greet his family, warm amber eyes dancing over each of his children as Briar herded them in. Thorn, Ciaran, Dusk, Talyssa, Bramble... The proud father gazed upon each of his children, now adolescents and almost fully grown adults. Thorn, Ciaran, and Bramble in particular had grown so tall, easily showing off the dire genes they'd inherited as they rivaled their sire for sheer height! Dusk and Talyssa had both started developing more in line with their mother, elegant and sylphlike. His pups (not really puppies anymore) were all growing into wolves he was so proud to call his children. Talyssa greeted him blissfully in their family tongue, earning her a particularly warm smile from her sire. He loved how she'd taken to their family's culture so emphatically.

"Buna dimineata, draga mea. Totul este mai bine decât în regulă. Este o zi foarte specială!" he replied to his daughter. Next came Dusk, who was practically vibrating with energy, she was so excited! "Good morning, my little soot sprite," he greeted his ebon-furred daughter, using the little tease of a nickname he'd given her since birth while leaning down to grace her brow with a kiss in return. Such a sweet girl she was. Ciaran was his usual taciturn self, but received the same warmth in Artorias' gaze as he greeted his son. The far more enthusiastic Bramble got a chuckle from her sire as she kissed his cheek, and before she could pull away Artorias was leaning over to give her one back right on the end of her snout. "Good morning, my not-so-little princess," he said amidst chuckles. Who would've guessed his youngest, his baby of the litter, would be standing shoulder to shoulder with him at such a height! Last but not least, Thorn got pulled into a quick one-armed hug as he came up to Artorias, the dire wolf nuzzling his son's forehead. "Good morning, my young knight."

With all of the family assembled, it was time for the moment they'd been waiting for—mandatory embarrassment as their father doted on them for their first birthdays, starting with song! "La mulți ani pentru tine, la mulți ani pentru tine! La mulți ani Thorn, Ciaran, Dusk, Talyssa, și Bramble! La mulți ani pentru tine!" Artorias sang for his children while in the rafters overhead Corbin and Eira cawed and cheered for the yearlings. A huge smile adorned Artorias' face while he cherished in this once in a lifetime moment with his family. "Today, my children, you are all officially yearlings! I cannot begin to tell you how proud I am of you all. You've each only just begun your life's journey, but already you are all growing into wolves any parent would be elated to call their own. Your mother and I love you all so, so much, and we hope you know just how important and special each of you is." Still smiling so wide it hurt his cheeks, Artorias gestured to the wrapped gifts on the table before him. "These are for you. Gifts to keep with you for your lifetimes. May they always remind you of who you are and how loved you are."

First up was Talyssa. Artorias slid over the small wrapped box toward his daughter. When it was unwrapped, a pristine mahogany box would be revealed. Inside the velvet-lined box lay a flawless necklace: a thin feminine chain with a pendant of the Hallows' flames hanging from the end. The chain and pendant were made of Carpathian steel and glistened in the morning light, as did the three small ovular gemstones that hung inside the flame pendant. The gems represented Talyssa and her parents—a faceted amber for Artorias, a perfectly smooth teal apatite for Briar, and a clear aquamarine for Talyssa herself, each stone the color of their respective wolf's eyes. "A little piece of home and family to keep with you always," Artorias explained, fixing Taly with a loving smile. He lifted the necklace in his paws, holding the chain open to slip it over Taly's head if she wished so she could wear it right away. "Indiferent ce s-ar întâmpla, mama ta și cu mine vom fi mereu alături de tine, Taly."

Next came Dusk. Artorias met the matching eyes of his daughter with a roguish smirk on his lips as he gestured her up to present her with her gift. Hers was also box-shaped, but notably the largest box on the table. Beneath the wrapping was another polished mahogany box, but inside was something starkly less girly. Inside the velvet-lined box lay a set of razor sharp blades, all shaped like thin ovular leaves with deadly edges. The blades were attached to chains that connected to a metal cuff, forming an elegant metal bladed whip. The cuff itself was studded with brilliant fire opals that shone in the light. Like Talyssa's gift, this was also made of flawless Carpathian steel, the metal shimmering in the light like ripples on water. For Dusk, this was more than just a gift to fit into her interests. This was a profound statement of trust from her parents. This was Artorias' way of showing he still supported his daughter's passion and interests in armed combat, despite what had happened. "It's no wire from the gardens, but I think it'll suffice," teased Artorias as he presented Dusk with her gift. "Just promise me you'll be careful. I'd like all five of you to remain in one piece."

Up next was Ciaran. Artorias looked to his tall son with a swell of pride in his chest as he gestured Kea over to one of the presents that was very clearly a sword. He knew how much time and dedication his boys had put into learning the way of the blade with him and he was so proud of the both of them. They'd worked their tails off, proven their convictions, and now their efforts and commitment would make their dreams come true. Beneath the wrappings, Ciaran would find a short sword stowed in a freshly oiled scabbard, its leather as black as midnight. The pommel of the sword was adorned with a silver wolf's head, and the grip was wrapped in the same matching black leather. The crossguard featured an array of faceted sapphires on both sides, all bearing a rich blue hue and cut to reflect light and gleam from any angle. Artorias gestured for Kea to unsheath his sword and reveal the weapon in all its glory. The blade was made of Carpathian steel, honed and sharpened to perfection, but it had been uniquely forged, tempering the steel to a harder strength and darkening the metal to a blued finish. "Now you're ready to be a true Knight," Artorias said to his son with a delighted smile, pride filling his fiery eyes. "You've earned this, son."

Fourth in line was Bramble. His sweet little princess had been quite the conundrum for him to think up an appropriate present for her, since her interests were so wide and varied. Fortunately, Briar had come up with a brilliant solution, one he was sure Bramble would be delighted by. So as Bramble was gestured up, Artorias slid the wrapped box over to Briar to present to their daughter. After all, she had been the one to come up with the idea and the one to craft it almost entirely by herself. She should be the one to present the gift to their daughter. Once Bramble had opened her gift and Briar had explained it, Art smiled at their child and said, "I hope it's to your liking, Brammy. Your mother was very excited to make this for you."

With only one gift left on the table, Artorias turned to Thorn and presented his son with the massive sword-shaped present. The sword itself was huge; clearly larger than any other blade seen in the Hallows yet! When unwrapped, the blade's navy leather scabbard and grip were the first things revealed, as was the large faceted citrine gemstone set in either side of the crossguard. Given the size of the greatsword, Artorias helped Thorn unsheath the sword for the first time, holding the scabbard while Thorn drew the blade. Like all the gifts, the greatsword was made of flawless Carpathian steel, its distinctive ripple-like effect shimmering in the steel. The length of the massive silver blade was inlaid with darker Carpathian steel, stylized to look like ivy vines were creeping down the length of the blade from grip to tip. It was a large, hefty weapon, but given that Thorn had shown his mettle as his most physically capable child, Artorias had no qualms presenting his son with this one-of-a-kind weapons. "It's a little bigger than the ones we've been training with, but I had a feeling this one would be more your style," Artorias explained with a chuckle and a grin. "It'll take some getting used to, but you have my full confidence in you. That is the only Carpathian steel weapon of its kind. Take care of it and it will take care of you, son."

With all the gifts presented, Artorias clapped his paws together and smiled over his family again. "I hope you all love your gifts! We could never give you enough to show you how much we love you or how much joy you've all brought your mother and I, but know that you are our greatest treasures in life." Surely no parents had ever had better children than Artorias and Briar had! His attention turning to Ciaran, Dusk, and Thorn in particular, the Aegis gave the trio a curious look as he glanced over their new weapons. "It's said that all the best legendary weapons have names. Would you like to give yours names?" First impression names were sometimes tricky, but Artorias would be happy to help his children name their weapons if they so desired it. "Also, as you all will be turning to yearlings, your training and duties in the pack will be growing with you. Today, you'll get to choose which ranks you wish to ascend to, and what paths you'd like to walk in the Hallows." Artorias suspected he already knew what at least a couple of his children would pick. "You're also of the age where I think it's time you all got your own personal spaces. So today, we'll be picking out your new bedrooms and start furnishing them however you want!" Not that Artorias didn't love having seven grown wolves sharing one bedroom for sleeping, but he did want to be able to have some alone time with Briar whenever he felt like it instead of waiting for the room to be vacant.

"Carpathius Family"

Briar couldn't help the loving grin that lingered on her muzzle as she watched their children greet their father, her tail wagging gently behind her from the joy and excitement in the room. There was nothing in the world she loved more than having her little–or maybe not so little, depending on who was asked–family all together and seeing them all so happy. She had always known that Artorias was going to be a wonderful father, but he had undoubtedly proven that tenfold over the last year. Sitting next to Artorias as he began their little birthday song in Carpathian, she giggled and joined in, adding her softer, more lyrical voice to Artorias' and his ravens up above. ""La mulți ani Thorn, Ciaran, Dusk, Talyssa, și Bramble! La mulți ani pentru tine!"" Somewhere at the back of the hall she heard Marigold giving her own cheers as well along with the other companions in the rafters. They were all here to celebrate such a huge milestone for their wonderful pups.

Artorias was always one for doing things with a bit of flare and dramatics so as he went on to introduce their gifts and begin passing them out to each of the pups, she smiled and lingered beside them, watching their reactions eagerly. As Talyssa was presented with her custom necklace that held a pendant that represented their family, she grinned and leaned over to press a kiss to her daughter's cheek. "Arată frumos la tine, dragă. La mulți ani." She looked over in time to see Artorias presenting the next box to Dusk, revealing the very specialized weapon that was tucked inside. Artorias handled the warning to be careful so she didn't feel the need to do it again, though she did give Dusk a pointed look to make sure she got the message. Then she smiled, chuckling softly as leaned in to nuzzle the top of Dusk's head between her gradually growing little antlers. "Happy birthday, my love. I hope you have fun with them... maybe not too much fun through." Of course she had to make at least a little bit of a teasing comment as the over protective mother she was. After chuckling and giving their little soot sprite a kiss on the cheek she lifted her gaze to see the next gift.

As Artorias moved to the first sword of the pile, she turned her attention to Ciaran as the blue-tinted blade was revealed and the sunlight streaming through the windows caught on the faceted sapphires. It really was a beautiful weapon and she was again impressed with the craftsmanship behind all of their gifts. Yes, they had spoiled them all a little bit, but they were worth it. She didn't know a lot about the weapons that Artorias presented them with since fighting with those kinds of things had never really been her style, but she could definitely appreciate their beauty, the work that went into them, and the fact that they would help keep their children safe. She stepped over to Ciaran after Art had given him his gift and gave him a proud smile, tipping her muzzle up to give his cheek a kiss as well. How had they already gotten so tall?! "Enjoy it, but be safe," she warned. No one was going to escape a mother's worry with very sharp things now in their paws! "Happy birthday, Kea."

Artorias pulled her attention again as he slid the next gift over to her to present and her ears perked with interest, giving him a smile before she turned her attention to Bramble. She nodded with agreement at her mate's explanation of her excitement to make this particular gift. She wasn't well versed in weapons, but when it came to coming up with ideas for Talyssa's necklace or thinking up something unique for Bramble she had been very eager to play a role in their gifts. Briar placed the polished box in front of Bramble as she said, "Happy birthday, darling. I hope you like it." Once the box was opened, she would find a metal cuff made from the same Carpathian steel as the rest of her sibling's gifts, made to be able to open and clasp around the base of her tail, the metal is polished to bring out the natural pattern of the unique material. Three ribbons trail off of the cuff, two of them green and one of them blue to match her markings, and along the length of the ribbons hang delicate fringe of sparking, glass beads, spaced out along the ribbons so that once they are graded around her tail they can peak out among the fur of her tail to catch the light. It was certainly a more unusual gift, but she just knew it would match Bramble's style. She had to lean up to kiss her daughter's cheek as well, still marveling at how big they had gotten already.

Last but not least was Thorn who undoubtedly had the largest gift of the bunch. Somehow the massive sword made her even more nervous than the very sharp tail blades that Dusk had been presented with, but she trusted Artorias' judgement on the matter and if he was confident that Thorn could handle such a weapon then she would agree. She felt like she did a pretty good job of hiding her reservations as Artorias helped their son with getting the great sword from its scabbard for the first time to present the beautiful sword to their boy, giving him a proud, loving smile as well and eventually leaning in to nuzzle Thorn's cheek happily once Art was done with presenting him his gift. "Happy birthday, Thorn. I can't wait to see you master your sword just like your father." At the very least she knew that they all had the best teacher possible in Artorias so at least they would all know how to wield these dangerous weapons well.

She sat back at Artorias' side now that all of their gifts were given out, every one of them now holding a piece of the special steel that Artorias was so proud to outfit his family in. She nodded with agreement as Artorias expressed how they truly were their their greatest treasures. "Gifts are really never enough to show how much we love all of you, but we at least wanted you all to have something to remind you of home no matter where life takes you," she added, giving them all a smile as she tried her best not too get too emotional over how fast they had all grown. As Art began to question them on names for their new weapons, what ranks they might want to pursue, and mentioning the new spaces that they would get to start claiming as their own it really did drive home that they weren't really their pups any more, but nearly full grown adults and it all felt very bitter sweet. "Well, while you hash out all those details, I'll go get our birthday breakfast together," she said with a chuckle, beginning to slip away to go over to the kitchen and begin whipping up something special for them. "Go ahead and get seated at the table, darlings, I'll be right back!"

"Carpathius Family"

As the rest of her siblings spilled out into the grand hall, the air became charged with feelings of excitement and anticipation which was only echoed by the warmth in their father’s voice. As he declared that today was a particularly special day, her sleepy confusion brightened into a pleasant surprise. As soon as her brothers and sisters got settled, their father kicked off the celebration with a birthday song in Carpathian. Talyssa couldn’t help the giggles that ensued as she glanced from Tati to Mami, as she had joined in as well. Looking around the table from sibling to sibling, she felt her chest was going to burst from the warmth and familial affection of the moment. Though, she couldn’t help the moment of sadness as it threatened the back of her mind: how many more times would they all be gathered here like this?

After the song subsided, their sire went on to mention the gifts that had been laid out on the table. Two of them were clearly weapons, however the other three remained in boxes. She couldn’t help but wonder what was inside them, and who exactly each present was for- but she wasn’t left wondering about her own for very long. Talyssa was given her gift first. With an excited grin, she gently tugged the ribbon loose, and carefully pulled the canvas away- revealing a small mahogany box. Opening the lid, it revealed a velvet lined inside with a small, Carpathian steel pendant on matching chain. Talyssa couldn’t help but gasp, her voice catching in her throat. “It’s beautiful! Imi place atat de mult!“ She beamed. Though, when her father explained what the precious stones represented, it made her heart sing on a whole different level. It was then Artorias gently lifted it from the box- the pendant glistening in the early morning light as he held it up in the air. As maneuvered the chain open, Talyssa quickly took advantage of the offer to help her get it on. As she nosed her way through the opening, and her father released it from his hold, she felt it fall into place a little higher than the center of her chest- though she didn’t look down to examine it right away. Instead, she leaned up to deliver a peck on her father’s cheek. “Multumesc Tati!” After she pulled away, she immediately sought to find her mother to offer her thanks as well, though she wasn’t left wondering for long. She felt her mother’s kiss on her own cheek, which she would lean into while reaching up with a single paw in a one-sided embrace. “Multumesc Mami!” Taly echoed. It was then she took a glance down at her gift- her paw slipping behind to lift it away from her fur. She simply couldn’t get over how perfect it was, and knew in that moment she would never go anywhere without it.

Next came Dusk’s gift- a weapon unlike one she had ever seen before. It was intimidating looking, yet beautiful at the same time- much like her sister. She couldn’t have even imagined something more perfect for the obsidian fae, and here it was before them- another outstanding gift. Of course, Kea was given one of the swords. And as far as swords went, it was really pretty as well- though she wasn’t sure that pretty was the proper way to describe it. Bramble was given an accessory that was just as uniquely beautiful as herself, which was an excellent design for her taller sister. Finally came Thorn’s sword, and it was just as stunning as Ciaran’s but in its own way.

As the gift exchange concluded, she couldn’t help but admire everything that had been given. Each gift was so well thought out, and so special. Their parents expressed how much they all meant to one another, and Talyssa understood immediately that there simply weren’t enough words to express that love in any language combined. Her father prompted Thorn, Kea, and Dusk to name their weapons before transitioning into the next big topics- their mother taking the opportunity to go get Breakfast started. Training regiments and duties with the pack, as well as picking out bedrooms. And while the gifts were exciting, while she knew she would have fun picking out her own room and filling it with her own belongings … this was the moment she had been dreaming about for so long- her place in Hearthstone, and what she could do for her family. She needed very little time to think at all. “I would like to train to be an Envoy of the Hallows … so I guess that would start at the path of a Scholar.” Talyssa answered softly, but with clear conviction. She simply couldn’t think of a more exciting and impactful destiny.

"Talyssa Carpathius"

Bramble’s excitement is palpable as Artorias doles out the gifts. When one is handed to Briar, her eyes draw over to her mother. A little gasp leaves her as Briar pushes the polished box toward her. Looking down at the package, Bramble is speechless. Already, she is awestruck by her sibling’s gifts, but as she opens her’s, she feels tears prick at the edges of her eyes. Taking the lid off of the box, she fights back her emotions. The love she has for her parents swells as she pulls out the tail cuff with its trailing blues and greens and sparkling glass beads. “It’s perfect,” Bramble whispers as she sits back and lifts it up with her paws to see it in the light. Feeling the kiss of her mother upon her cheek, her smile widens. “Will you help me put it on after breakfast?” She asks hoarsely as she places it back in the box for now. Not wanting to damage it, she places the lid back on and tucks it safely away as the rest of the gifts are handed out and Briar leaves to gather breakfast. Turning her attention to Artorias as he addresses them altogether, Bramble continues to smile. Her energy is hard to contain as he explains that they will get their own rooms and choose a path to climb. Excitement buzzes in her as she waits for a moment to speak up. Though she had had previous hopes of becoming a Knight, Bramble had begun to realize that she might be better off going in a different direction. She knew Artorias knew this after their conversations as well, but to announce it to her siblings would hopefully be fun! When Lyssa speaks, Bramble’s ears flicker forward and then back. Ah, Envoy was a good choice! Smiling toward her sister, Bramble turns back to look at Artorias. “Ultimately, I would like to seek out a spot in the High Council,” she speaks with confidence as she always does. There isn’t ever a moment that Bramble isn’t unsure of herself. “But if that isn’t obtainable yet,” she winks at her father before continuing, “I would prefer Envoy as well or even possibly Commander,” her chest puffs slightly as her ears flicker, waiting patiently for her father’s response and also to see her sibling’s reactions. Bramble Carpathius

Thorn grinned at his dad’s singing, looking from his dad and mom’s face and then to his siblings, looking for the same excitement he felt in their own eyes.  After the song Dad gave a short speech and spoke of being proud of them.  It wasn’t as if Dad never encouraged him but still, it had that special ring to it right now.  This wasn’t proud of one good training session or any other event but proud of them as the wolves they were turning into as a whole.  Then, the really exciting part was mentioned; presents.

A box for Taly, within it a beautiful pendant of the famous Carpathian metal with gems glistening inside.  It wasn’t just a pendant but one with every part of it had meaning and the craftsmanship of an artist.  “It’s almost as pretty as you are Taly,” Thorn said in good spirit.

Dusk got her whip-tail weapon and Thorn had to wonder if there was any name for a weapon of that sort.  The notion of wanting to study it later came to mind.  It wasn’t a weapon that would work for any wolf but perfect for his sister.  Then Ciaran got his own sword.  A real sword!  Still, another one was on the table.  Wrapped so he couldn’t see it but it appeared incredibly long.  Was there extra scabbard or something to cause that?  Thorn was well aware of the size of a normal short sword and long sword and others he’d spied on the armory.  This appeared longer.

The wrapped sword was given to Thorn and he stared at the present itself in awe for a few seconds before carefully using paw and teeth to gently rip the paper.  For all his excitement and desire to see it, the boy took joy in slowly opening it to truly soak in every inch of the handle and scabbard of the sword.  The gems embedded in it seemed to add to the sword's personality, breathing a bit more life into it.  The boy's tail was slowly swaying back and forth as he finally removed all of the wrapping to see each part of it.

When Dad helped by holding the scabbard Thorn put his teeth around the sword, feeling elation at the weight of the weapon felt finally firmly locked between his jaws.  Thorn turned his head and took a partial step back to fully draw out the blade fully and present it for the world to see.  His own eyes soaked in the sword's appearance, how the steel seemed to ripple, and the dark metal that created an ivy leaf pattern.  Thorn had wanted a sword so badly and here he had a masterpiece.

Thorn listened to his dad speak of having chosen it specifically for Thorn, and confidence in him.  Thorn felt like a small pup again.  From the excitement from Dad’s words to the weight of the sword, heavier than any weapon he’d been able to hold until now.  Thorn’s dream was finally here!   The boy stared at the sword for another minute before carefully slipping the blade back into its sheath.  It felt great doing that also! “I love it! Thank you Dad, thank you Mom!”

Dad then brought up naming their weapons.  Oh, Thorn had spent so much time thinking up possible names for his future grand weapon.  Admittedly without seeing the sword, it would be hard to know the right one for sure.  How many nights and days, how many days after training was over had he imagined potential names? “StormSong, is the name of my blade,” spoken easily when Dad was done talking.  “A threat of the storms is enough to send animals indoors.  I liked falling asleep to some of the thunderstorms we heard at night also.  So the storm is a mixture of something beautiful and something dangerous.  So is my sword.”

But they weren’t done!  They were no longer just pups but able to gain responsibilities just as the adults already had.  “I will be a knight,” Thorn said brimmed with confidence but then adding on, “but, at some point, I’d like to take time away.  I want to travel up and down all the lands, I want to see the world but, I still want to be a knight!”    

Finishing all things off, they were going to get their own rooms also!  His own room! Best day ever.  That thought sent his eyes back toward his sword.  It was still there and still real.  Yes, best day ever.

"Thorn Carpathius"

Their parents began to sing and that was a little embarrassing for the young wolf, but she smiled nonetheless. Dusk had been practicing with her aunt Iolaire ever since the old wolf had come to live in The Hallows, so her Carpathian was very good. Tal used it often, but Dusk saved it for special moments between her family. For some reason, it seemed like the right thing to do. Not that she would judge any of her family for the use of the tongue, but it just meant something a little different to the dark child, that's all.

Once the song ended, her parents began doling out gifts. Talyssa was given hers first and Dusk smiled as the beautiful pendant was unwrapped. Their father placed it around Tal's neck where it settled perfectly against her pale chest. It was a very thoughtful gift and it seemed pretty well suited for her pretty, sweet sister.

Next came her own gift. Dusk carefully unwrapped the hidden box, looking at it for a moment before she carefully opened it. The girl's eyes widened and her lower jaw slackened as the moment struck her completely in awe. Within lay... exactly what she hadn't known that she'd always wanted. Delicate but sturdy chains extended from a jeweled cuff, ending in tiny, leaf shaped blades. Dusk didn't have to touch the blades to know that they were sharp. She could practically see the edges gleaming. The jewels were pretty and all, but it was the meaning behind the gift that meant the most to the dark child. Trust. Trust, belief and support that only parents could give. Briar and Artorias were telling her that, though she'd made mistakes, they believed in her enough to let her know that she could and would do better. Dusk silently vowed that she would never stop training. She would be the best tail-blade wielder that the land had ever seen!

Emotion overtook the girl and, as she reverently closed the box again, all that she could manage was a soft murmur of thanks to her parents. The attention shifted to the remainder of her siblings, but Dusk couldn't have told you what they'd gotten in that moment. Later, after she'd had time for her emotions to settle, she would be very impressed with the swords that her brother's received and the gift for Bramble was so very pretty and so very fitting.

As the rest of the group reveled in their birthday gifts, Dusk slipped away and moved towards the fire that always burned. She just needed a moment to compose herself. As she sat looking down at the hearth, a few fat teardrops spattered the stone. Raising one paw, Dusk wiped away the tears. She couldn't imagine a more meaningful gift. The thought that had gone into it proved beyond a doubt just how much her parents loved her. Their trust meant so much... After the incident with the wire and Thorn's ear, she thought that she'd always be looked upon as a screw up. Everyone had moved past the issue, and then some. The initial realization had been overwhelming, but Dusk put herself back together quickly enough.

The smallest of the Carpathian children rejoined her family, leaning against her mother's leg, which she wrapped one paw around in a gentle embrace. Only when Briar left the prepare breakfast did Dusk let her go. She then moved to her father's side and did the same, giving one foreleg a squeeze, her forehead pressed against his shoulder in silent thanks, before moving to the table to seat herself beside Thorn. Dusk was quiet, but there was a smile on her face. Today was a day of celebration, but it was also a day of realization. They weren't kids anymore.

"Dusk Carpathius"

He felt Art’s eyes on him, and looked up at his father. In truth, he didn’t need to look very far any more. Once, his father had been a towering figure. Now, still regal and commanding, but less imposing in height alone. Kea matched his size and found himself looking at his father from eye level. He wasn’t sure why it startled him so much, perhaps with the knowledge that this was their birthday and the realisation that he was growing older brought it all together.

He let his attention be dragged to the package before him, and moved to open it. He could feel the weight of it even as he tore the packaging, and while a part of him hoped he barely dared to believe… and there it was. The hilt was decorative, with the figure of a silver head, and adorned with a sapphire stone. The workmanship was exquisite, and he could already feel himself choking up. But it wasn’t over yet, and his father was gesturing for him to draw it. He strapped it to his back so he could pull the blade without dropping the sheath. To do so required a little bit of help for the first time, but his father stepped in to secure it across his shoulder.

The weight of it felt like home, and he almost couldn’t breath. He drew the blade, and found the Carpathian steel, rippling like water across the blade. He sniffed, trying to keep the emotions at bay. “She’s beautiful… I’m going to call her Windrunner” He said with pride, before sheathing the sword and suddenly moving. Grabbing his fathers shoulders and pulling him into an embrace. “Thank you, dad, thank you mum” He said, wiping his eyes on his shoulder. He stepped back and watched as the last of the presents were handed out. “I would like to aim for High Councilor or Commander” he said, knowing that ultimately he wanted to be a part of decision making, and doing whatever he could to help the pack.


"Ciaran Carpathius"

One by one, each of his perfect children stepped forth to receive their birthday gifts. Nothing brought Artorias more joy than seeing the joy and excitement in his sons' and daughters' faces as they unwrapped their presents, the light and life in each of them growing their sire's smile wider and wider. Talyssa, ecstatic with her necklace, could barely contain herself as he draped the delicate chain around her neck, the pendant settling perfectly against her tawny chest. Her gleeful thanks spoken in their mother tongue brought a happy chuckle from Artorias, happily nuzzling his daughter back as she kissed his cheek. "Cu placere, draga," he replied before turning his attention to Bramble while Briar helped her get her tail cuff attached so that she could wear it and show it off. He beamed at his two daughters, adorned in their jewelry made of their family's special metal. They were both growing into beautiful young women any father would be proud of.

Dusk opened her gift and then... she froze. Art watched his little soot sprite carefully, wondering if perhaps he had accidentally upset her with her gift and a twinge of concern twisted at his heart. Her mouth hung open, then closed, and the adolescent fae slowly closed the box as if it were made of glass. She dismissed herself with a murmur of thanks and stepped back to move over to the Grand Hearth. Art watched her as she went, keeping his eyes on Dusk to make sure his little girl was okay. She looked a bit overwhelmed, so he would give her some space for the time. Ciaran and Thorn both were bursting at the seams to receive their clearly weapon-shaped gifts, and both young men were awestruck by the blades they had been gifted. Artorias knew his children would take good care of the weapons and carry their family heirlooms with pride and honor. Kea and Thorn gave their swords names—Windrunner and StormSong respectively—and Art nodded his head reverently. "Fine names for fine blades!" he decreed with a pleased smile on his face.

It was then that Dusk rejoined the family after a spell, giving Briar an embrace as she went toward the kitchen, then made her way over to her sire. Artorias looked at Dusk with warmth and love in his eyes, realizing the weight of the emotion in her expression. Though there were no more tears in her matching amber eyes, Art didn't need to see them to know the depth of Dusk's emotions. He gave her a gentle smile as his soot sprite leaned into his shoulder and squeezed his foreleg in an embrace. Artorias craned his neck down to plant a kiss atop his daughter's crown right between her ears, whispering for her to hear alone. "Te iubesc atât de mult, mica mea umbră." Nothing his children could do could ever fracture the love he held for them. This was what he wanted to show Dusk in addition to showing her that she could have or do whatever she put her mind to.

After the gifts had been received, each of his children began to voice their desired paths and aspiring ranks in the Hallows. Unsurprising, both of his boys had chosen the path of Knight, with Kea going further to aim for Commander or High Councilor. Talyssa and Bramble chose the path of Scholar, with the former aiming for Envoy and the latter keeping her options open. He smiled to both of them, returning Bramble's knowing smirk and wink. She did not have to set her path in stone today, nor did he expect any of them to. They had their whole lives to figure out who they were and who they would become. Only Dusk remained silent on the matter, but Artorias would not pester nor pry for her to respond. She also had plenty of time to feel out who she was. "Then so it shall be! You will all have the starting ranks you wish for—Knights and Scholars. I love you all so much, and I am so very proud of the wolves you're all becoming. Not only the pride of the Hallows, but the pride of the Carpathius family also." Artorias was such a sappy dad, but his whole world revolved around his family. His children were the pinnacle of that world. For them, he would do anything, he would lay down his life if he had to. They were worth everything.

"Carpathius Family"