Lost and Found

Yellow brick road

It has been two weeks since the snow has melted.

Ethan has been flying our belongings to the Citadel since the snow stated to melt, during those two weeks Ethan has also spoken with his uncle. His uncle listened intently, and insisted that this should be discussed with the entire council. Myself being present.

This is why we are two weeks early for the spring fare. We have been allocated a two room hut not far from the city center, and due to Ethan’s efforts all but what we will travel with is secured in one of the rooms.

The sun is just starting to rise as we make our final preparations for the day long journey to the Citadel. The chill in the air is barely noticeable as Rowan and Ethan have me wrapped in several furs.

Ethan changes into his beast form, a very large magnificent eagle. His beast form is over twice his human size. Beautiful gold and brown feathers ruffling slightly in the cool morning breeze. His large head constantly moving, his large keen eyes ceaselessly surveying his surroundings.

Strong muscular legs and powerful talons. His talons are huge. Easily the length of my forearm.  Sharp and certainly capable of dispensing deadly wounds to its prey. Before me stands a magnificent predator, yet I do not fear him.

Rowan secures a harness around Ethan’s form. Thick leather straps secured around his body, attached to a small cushioned fur that nestles between his shoulder blades.

The harness is much like a crude saddle. Large enough for Rowan and I to sit securely whilst flying.

A net sits to the side, fashioned to carry three bags containing our more personal items, the last of our belongings that we will be taking.

I will be the first to admit my nerves. I am terrified of heights, yet add a safety rope to me and I am fine. I will climb sturdy trees and abseil a steep rock face, but standing on chairs and ladders make me soooo nervous.

With everything in place, assured by tugs on the harness by Rowan, Ethan lowers his body to the ground giving me assess to mount him.

Taking a seat at the base of his neck, I secure the rope around my waist, making sure it is firmly attached to Ethan. I take a moment to caress his feathers, both firm and soft to the touch, smooth and well oiled. The smaller feathers blend intricately with the larger ones as they rounded the delicate, narrowing curve toward the bottom tip. The rich golden browns becoming darker towards the tips of his wings and tail.

Ethan trills in what I presume is pleasure.

Rowan climbs behind me, wrapping his arms around me. His presence and warmth sooth some of my nerves.

“Are you ready, my love?” He whispers in my ear. I check the rope once more.

“Y yes.” I shakily squeak out.

Ethan grabs the rope bag with his large talons and stretches his wings. The low sun creating a golden glow on his large brown feathers.

I could feel the strength in his shoulder muscles as he flexes his glorious wings.

His body lowers as his wings rise either side of us, gently caressing our arms.