NOVPUB
Chapter 306: Chapter 306 Familiar figure
Simon knew the way well, so he led them inside the city. This was the capital of the Eagle Kingdom, a large and bustling place where almost every house was built high up in the trees. The houses were made for flying beasts, but for those who couldn’t fly, each tree house had simple wooden stairs winding up the thick trunks.
Though the city belonged to the Eagles, it was known for welcoming other sky beasts, offering them refuge. This kindness, along with its well-developed ways, made the city famous. As they walked through the entrance, tall walls made of limestone and sandstone lined the path, covered in green ivy that climbed up, giving a touch of nature to the stone.
Inside the city, massive trees dominated the landscape. Their roots spread wide and deep, some even visible above the ground, twisting in all directions. The trunks were thick and sturdy, and the branches high above held the wooden houses. Each tree house was connected by narrow, winding stairs, spiraling up the tree like a natural staircase.
Lucas’s eyes lit up as he looked around. He admired the simple yet elegant design of the houses, nestled perfectly among the branches. The idea of having a tree house back home suddenly seemed possible, and he couldn’t wait to make it happen.
Soon, they were approached by the same dark brown-headed eagle who had flown down to meet them. He looked at Oceanus and said, "Please follow me. I’ve already spoken with the leader, and your house is being prepared. This way, please." He glanced at the group, adding, "It’s better if you fly up; the stairs might be uncomfortable for you."
"Of course," Oceanus agreed, climbing onto Simon’s back, while Lucas carefully sat on Damon’s back, holding Kyra close. The dark brown-haired eagle led them deeper into the city, flying swiftly through the air as they followed.
They finally stopped near one of the largest tree houses, set high in the branches with a spacious balcony that jutted out. The tree supporting it was enormous, its thick trunk rising high into the sky. The house itself was impressive, made of polished wood with large windows that overlooked the city below, offering a panoramic view of the entire kingdom.
Lucas gazed at the house with wide eyes. It was far bigger than the others they had seen, and the balcony was perfect for enjoying the fresh air. Damon landed softly, his wings folding behind him as he carefully set down.
As they approached the door, a familiar figure stood waiting—striking red hair cascading down his back and sharp golden eyes watching them intently. Alessandro, the Meeko’s father, was standing there, his presence a stark and unexpected surprise.
"It’s you," Lucas said, his voice filled with shock as he stared at Alessandro. The recognition was mutual; Alessandro’s eyes widened in surprise, clearly not expecting to meet familiar faces here.
Simon shifted back into his human form, his eyes flicking between Alessandro and the others, while Oceanus greeted him with a calm, knowing smile. Damon, usually composed, couldn’t hide his own surprise at seeing Alessandro in this unexpected place. It felt like a strange twist of fate, an unplanned reunion that none of them had seen coming.
"What a coincidence," Damon finally said, his voice edged with disbelief.
"I didn’t expect to see you here," Alessandro said, his surprise quickly turning into a warm smile. "Please, come inside. I had a house prepared and cleaned quickly for you." He stepped aside, leading them into a modest living room. The space was simple, with a cozy sofa, a small table, and a balcony that opened up from the living room, allowing sunlight to flood the room.
As he led them further inside, Alessandro glanced at Kyra, noting her condition. "So, your female is pregnant. Congratulations! You’re going to be a father—it’s a great experience. Is she having a wolf cub?" he asked casually, guiding them down a small hallway with two rooms on each side.
"It’s a snake cub," Lucas replied as he entered one of the rooms, gently placing Kyra on the bed and adjusting the blanket around her with care.
Alessandro raised his eyebrows in surprise. "A snake cub, huh? That’s... unique. But where’s Vincent?" he asked, looking around as though expecting someone else to appear.
Oceanus chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement as he watched Alessandro’s reaction. "I’m surprised you’re not showing any hatred for snakes. As far as I know, many eagles consider snakes their enemies," Oceanus said, teasingly.
Alessandro shrugged, smiling faintly. "I’ve learned that life has a funny way of changing your perspective and I don’t have a reason to hate Vincent. He’s different. Knowing Meeko was an eagle cub, he never harmed him or treated him poorly. For that, I’m grateful." He glanced at Kyra, then quickly shifted the conversation. "We’ve also called our healer. He’ll be here soon with a bag of herbs. I hope it doesn’t delay her treatment."
"Not at all," Oceanus replied with a reassuring smile, shaking his head.
Alessandro gave them a faint smile before taking a step back. "I’ll take my leave now. My mate, Lara, will be thrilled to hear Kyra is here, and my cub will be dancing with excitement. He’s been talking nonstop about you all," he chuckled, a hint of fondness in his voice.
"How is he? If Ky-ky wakes up, we’ll definitely visit your home," Lucas said, sitting on the edge of the bed, his gaze focused on Kyra. Damon stood protectively beside him, his eyes never straying far from Kyra, while Oceanus and Simon remained at the side, observing Alessandro with calm but attentive expressions.
Alessandro nodded, his expression brightening. "He’s been doing well, full of energy as always. You know how cubs are. If you visit, he’ll be over the moon." He looked at Kyra one last time, his eyes soft with empathy and hope. "I hope she recovers soon. Take care of her, all of you." With those words, he turned and left the room, leaving the group to settle in and tend to Kyra.
As the door closed, a quiet calm settled over the room, and Lucas gently brushed a strand of Kyra’s hair away from her face, his mind filled with worry.
