The Story of Tiberius

Chapter 25

After a day of practicing, Thunder and Rain had become masters of the air. They had greatly enjoyed the feeling of being able to fly, even if they were limited to the small space of the apartment. An hour after they had first started flying, Alfred had then introduced them to a leather glove that they were supposed to land on. Though after a few mishaps and struggles, the pair finally got used to landing on the glove when their owner whistled. The two young hawks couldn't wait to fly again tomorrow. But now it was time for bed.

Tussling with each other carefully so they didn't rip up the blanket or accidentally injure one another, the siblings stopped their play fighting when Alfred entered the bedroom after brushing his teeth. They quickly separated themselves and acted like they hadn't done anything. Raising an eyebrow, the old man pointed out, "Nice try, I saw that." Pulling off pretend looks of shock on their faces, the young hawks glanced at each other before looking up at their owner. Smiling quietly, the old man shook his head as he gazed up at the ceiling briefly. Laying down on the bed and pulling the blanket over himself, he went to turn the lamp on the nightstand out. However, he stopped and looked over at Thunder and Rain, who looked back at him. Giving them a pat on their heads, he murmured, "You know what, I think I just figured out the perfect names for you both."

"But I like my name..." Thunder and Rain whimpered at the same time, giving Alfred the puppy dog eye look. It didn't work on him though as he gently stroked Rain's head and spoke, "I always liked the way you act so elegant and graceful. Plus, you seem to have a thing for flowers so I thought Rosa might work for you." The young hawk instantly stopped complaining when she heard her name. Nuzzling Alfred's hand, she purred happily while her brother looked at her. "Really? Three seconds ago, you were whining bout a new name..." he grumbled. Just then, he noticed that Alfred was now looking at him. Petting Thunder's head gently, the old man spoke softly, "As for you, I sometimes named my birds in the past after historical figures. I noticed how noble yet fierce you act so I think I should name you after the second emperor of Rome, Tiberius."

The young hawk didn't know why but the name seemed to ring a chord with him. He liked how it sounded and he could picture himself being called that. Plus, it made him feel special in a way. A smile came over the hawk's face as he purred softly, approving the name. Smiling back, Alfred remarked, "I thought you guys might like those names." Yawning, he turned out the light and mumbled, "Goodnight." Head hitting the pillow, he was fast asleep in seconds. The two newly named hawks looked at each other. "Sweet dreams Rosa," the young hawk whispered, laying his head down. Right before he fell asleep, he heard his sister whisper back, "You too Tiberius."