xxMulixx

High in the mountains of St. Aegolus, lived a kingdom of owls known as the Pure Ones. They were ruthless, power hungry beings, that would stop at nothing to accomplish their goal of ruling the owl kingdoms. They were led by the Lord High Tyto Metalbeak, and his mate Queen Nyra. These two believed that Tytos were the mightiest of all owls, so they would have them as soldiers. While believing all other species were weak, "impure" as they would say. So those who deemed unworthy, were enslaved to serve the Tytos. A few owls who weren't Tytos were chosen as "Slave-takers". They would go around, and kidnap young owlets from their homes, and sorted to be either a soldier, or slave. It seemed to be an ordinary day for them. Everyone was doing their duties, while Metalbeak was watching it all from his throne. A short time later, Nyra landed on the lower perch with the daily report. "My lord" she said. "Hmm?" he responded. "Everything is going as planned. I've sent a group to find more owlets. Hopefully we get more soldiers, since most of last group became pickers" she said. "Yes, I hope for the same" he agreed. Then he turned around to face her. "Nyra, come with me. I wish to speak with you on a private matter." He said as he spread his wings, and flew off the perch. "Of course" she responded, quickly following him. The two flew in silence to their hollow. Once they were inside, Nyra spoke first. "My lord-" "Nyra." He interrupted. " There's no need for formalities when we're alone." He said as he took off his mask and put it on the display. She nodded her head, knowing he was right. There wasn't any need to be formal in their own home. Here, they were free to do what they pleased. Even show affection towards each other. "What did you need to speak with me about, Surtr? You seem troubled." She asked using his real name. Surtr thought for a moment. He did have something on his mind, but she came first. Then he turned to her. "Nyra, you have been acting.....different lately. Is everything alright?" He said as he walked slowly towards her. "I'm not sure what you mean." She said quickly denying. He knew she was hiding something, so he pressed on. "You seem to be losing your temper more easily, your flying is a bit slow, your not eating as much, and your breathing seemed to be labored. What's going on?" Nyra looked at him for a moment, then turned her head down. She was hiding something, and wanted to tell him what she found out the other night. So, seeing no way out of it she started. "Surtr, remember when we were talking about the Pure Ones future?" He nodded. "We're going to..have..." Nyra trailed off hesitating, and looked to the ground. "Yes?" He said, while lifting her chin with his claw to look her in the eye. Nyra took a deep breath and said, "We're going to have a hatchling." She finished. Surtr's eyes widened "You mean..." Nyra nodded "Yes, my love. Your going to be a father." Surtr couldn't believe what he was hearing. He stepped closer to Nyra. "I'll have an heir?" He whispered unbelievingly. Nyra nuzzled him " Yes, my darling." She pulled back for a moment. " I know that's what troubling you. Our little one will lead the new generation. So there's no need to worry anymore." That did it. Surtr wrapped his wings around her, and nuzzled her back in excitement, all his troubles were forgotten. He'll have to announce the news, but right now he'd rather be here. With her.