home at last

Zephyr hurried along as Io's history lesson came to a close, making his way swiftly from the plains to the tip of the castle he called home. Sneaking into the building was the easiest part - the tower top he inhabited had a balcony well sized for his presence, and nobody ever thought to look up to find an 'intruder'. Folding his wings tight, the argentavis ducked through the doorway and made his way down the spiral staircase to the next level down. It was a very specific room to which he was headed, one that the path to and from was by now had long been memorized, and he'd hoped he'd arrive in time.

Breathless, the bird skidded to a stop outside his parents door. His vulture-like neck craning toward the wood as he listened intently. Was he too late? Had they already gotten up and started their day? Impatiently, his talons began to tap upon the floor. He wanted to surprise them, damnit, but how long was he willing to wait out here for them to open the door? If only he had a wolf's nose.

"Zephyr"