Calix was always thankful for his family. Even if he seemed a bit colder at times it was because he was already focused on his studies. The youngling was even thankful for his aunt even though the manor was always in danger because of her fights with his twin brother. Eventually the two of them would grow closer, at least that was his hope so that they could have a chance at a peaceful future. Now that it was the season for giving thanks the youngling had to ponder exactly what he wanted to give everyone. His brother was simple enough with his love for janarim and Calix would have to hope that he understood how much he appreciated his support, especially since at one point they were the only friends each other had due to the restrictions placed upon them for fear of their safety. His mother had some darkness lurking around the corners and Calix could only hope that things would resolve soon enough. At least now they could go and share a meal with their grandparents and great grandmother. The family always gathered once a year to celebrate the gods and the blessings upon their family. They would share a giant meal and even let the staff have gifts as tokens of appreciation for their hard work during the year. Calix was supportive of the custom and hoped that they could continue it without much trouble. Admittedly he was not one to make food even though apparently it was customary for families to make something to share but the boy always contributed to helping to pick out the decor and the appetizers. Surely that counted for something, right?

“What do you think?” Calix scratched his perzi’s chin before going to look through more of the books laying around the smaller library. It wasn’t as impressive as his grandmother’s collection but the boy did enjoy what he had. More importantly he had a writing desk with blank parchment waiting on him. There was even colored ink and it was that which caught his attention. To give thanks to everyone the boy was determined to write personalized notes, little pieces to demonstrate that he had made some effort to appreciate everyone.

First he decided upon something with a deep blue for his grandmother. “Gramma Arima, I’m so thankful that you always have the right remedy for any type of ache and that you share my adoration of literature. Thank you once more for supplying more books to my collection this year and I hope to exchange more titles throughout the upcoming months. Love, Calix.”

And then another one to his Aunt, “Thank you for your headstrong support in keeping us afloat. Your guidance and maturity is always appreciated even if it does sometimes erupt into more volatile lessons. Please continue keeping an eye on us and may your new year be full of hope and happiness.” That one was a bit harder but Calix did actually appreciate his aunt whenever she wasn’t distracted by his brother. They would all be blessed the day that they both set aside their differences to better understand how similar they actually were.

“Mother, you are a guiding light and I hope whatever shadows haunt you are chased away this year. Thank you for helping me with my stances and for teaching me strength of heart and body. I am forever thankful for your love and guidance.” And then something similar for his father. “Father, I hope to grow more like you and I am always thankful for your love and guidance. Thank you again for helping me with my studies and for everything you have given me. I am forever thankful for your love and guidance.” Calix nodded as he continued writing more notes to his relatives, including one to his great grandmother who always spoiled them, and even a small playful note to his brother. “Thank you for looking like such an amazing person. I could almost wish that I could reflect everything you are.” An obvious joke considering they were nearly identical in appearance minus their mirrored gemstone and opposite dominant hands, almost like they were mirrored images. Truly though he adored his twin even though they definitely had their differences. Still, Calix knew that he would not trade his family for the world and he was eager to share a table with everyone this upcoming night.

Even though he didn’t openly express his affections like the more vocal family members the boy did cherish everyone in his own way. This would forever be his favorite time of the year so that he could share thanks and enjoy the quiet time with his family nearby.

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