The Story of Tiberius

Chapter 8

"I got to say, you two keep on getting bigger everyday," Ellie remarked thoughtfully as she gazed down at Thunder and Rain, who were currently play fighting. This game was different though because both youngsters were using words to try getting a better advantage over the other. The hawk mother believed this was due to her telling them the mind was the best weapon one could possess. She smiled softly as she continued watching them.

"Hey, what's that over there?" Thunder asked, looking up from his play fight with Rain. He squinted his light brown eyes like he really was trying to see something in the distance. Convinced, Rain turned her head and followed his gaze. Fast as lightning, Thunder pounced on his sister and pinned her with ease. "Not fair!" Rain cried, struggling to free herself. Getting off of her, Thunder said teasingly, "All's fair in play fights."

"Alright you two, settle down. You may be a week old but that doesn't mean you have to tear up the nest," Ellie cautioned. Both siblings bowed their heads guiltily. Purring softly, the hawk pulled her children closer to her and embraced them in her wings. The pair hugged her back lovingly.

Just then, all three could hear someone flying towards the nest. Knowing who it was, they all looked up to find Austin coming over with a plump gray squirrel grasped firmly in his talons. "Daddy!" Thunder and Rain cried happily, delighted to see their father returning home at last. Ellie smiled kindly as she got to her feet. Landing on the edge of the nest, Austin puffed out his chest as he declared, "Dinner is served my dears! How is everyone on this fine day?"

No one was able to answer though when a loud bang went off. A second later, Austin tumbled backwards and fell towards the ground...