Days turned into months, and Mahmut was slowly becoming accustomed to his new life.
I'm sick of this place. My tail swished as I watched Little Mahmut from the floor. The corner of his room had become my own private spot. I've stayed in that certain space so often, Little Mahmut went out of his way to place a pillow down for me. Additionally, the human pup would also try to interact with me when he woke up from nightmares, but I remained stoic and distant. Why would I bother with one who doesn't listen to instruction?
That's not how it works in herds, packs or anarchies. He has already selected a teacher over me. The mutiny was enough for my own refusal to even join him for brunch and the rest of the eating times. I used my isolation carefully to lay around, and find spots to hide in for emergencies.
I glanced to the empty fruit bowl a few inches away. Well, I still accept his food. Only because Mahmut was the only human in this building I believed wouldn't poison me in cold blood. I refused to eat from anyone else, even the head human of this house. At least Mahmut knew what fruits I enjoyed and to switch up the order every day. I'd retrieve my own fruits, but I can't find any outside without going far. Leaving Mahmut alone with these practical strangers would also put a weight on my conscious, so that was out.
The sound of page turning gained my attention again, and I regarded Mahmut's yearn for reading. He's been doing nothing but reading since he's got here. It's obvious he wants to become someone with his knowledge, but I don't know what.
"Hey," Mahmut called, his round blue hues glancing over to my form on the floor. The book remained open, but he turned his attentiveness to me.
I lightly sniffed at the air, demonstrating the fact the human had my attention for a short while. My ears listened to the soft breathing of the sleeping bird nearby.
To my surprise; the human then left his bed. Little Mahmut took a few careful, cautious steps toward me. I didn't bristle nor show aggression. The child kneeled down and placed his hands on his lap. He locked eyes with me, and his gaze gained a wisp of determination to declare something likely important. A tiny huff left my mouth, but that didn't deter him.
"Are you...Mad at me?" The pup's question was a bit difficult not to reply to. His tone of voice had become softer than usual, like a thin line close to being cut. His round blues reminded me of the first time I met him, curiosity overshadowing his alertness to the world. This time, however, all of his attention was on my form, saddened and careful. He knew I could just ignore him the whole time, or even go as far as to leave the room.
"I'm sorry if I upset you." The small human apologized quietly, and my ear twitched in reply. "I don't want to fight with you. You and Islander are the only ones I have left who also," Little Mahmut's eyes gained a hazy look. "Used to live in the village...I don't know if you care or not...I want to see you as family. Is that okay?" He requested, eyes soon snapping back into focus.
My paws stretched as I remained on the floor. My head tilted upwards to meet him, and for a moment I observed him. Do what you wish, My mind already answered. I'm bound by contract to protect you. Refer to me as whatever you like. You don't need permission. Though he couldn't hear these words, I didn't push his hand away when he attempted to rub his digits down my fur. Though I must say; I didn't expect you to ask a creature who doesn't speak the same language as you. A small step in the right direction?
Ah, but Little Mahmut has already been showing signs of being understanding with creatures, unlike his own species. He quietly talked to the chick at night and took care in helping the tiny falcon to stretch its wings. The only problem is flight, as Mahmut can't teach it how to soar through the sky. He lacked the wings and experience.
I leaned onto the touch when the human pup lightly scratched behind my ear. I might...Try to help, but that's all I'm going to do. My vision remained on Little Mahmut's slight smile.
"I'm taking that as a yes." The blond quietly commented with his beautiful rounded eyes. He then mumbled something under his breath, but I didn't pay much attention until Mahmut gathered me into his arms and left back to his bed. The small child placed my form on his soft pillow as he resided a few inches away. He laid down and opened his book, continuing to read in silence.
I'm still unhappy. I regarded the child while he switched pages. Though I suppose as long as he continues to treat me right; I shouldn't get in his way. With a slight yawn, I curled up and relaxed. Little Mahmut sure likes reading. What a bookworm, I didn't think he was one. Pages turning and the quiet breathing of the other two occupants in the room lured my mind to begin rest.
I remained in the comfortable tranquility until I finally drifted away into the land of dreams.
Mahmut was busy again, but he was with the aged human. I normally wouldn't let the child out of sight, but they were within my hearing range. My long ears were used for one thing at least. The two humans were speaking about something that made no sense. It likely had something to do with other humans and their crazy politics I didn't understand. Mahmut seemed interested in the topic though, which was peculiar. He often converses with the older human when given the chance.
The child was still very young but recently he upped his time reading books and writing about them. He occasionally overworks himself to exhaustion, but never forgets to feed Isklander or me.
Speaking of the flightless bird...
"Eevee." Pay attention. I snapped my paw forwards, and the young chick fell forwards with a tiny squeak. At least the grass below us was soft enough to cushion his fall. Isklander recovered, shaking his brown feathered head to rid of the recoil. I merely looked down at him while he squawked in protest. A low growl rumbled in my throat and the little falcon quieted immediately.
Both Isklander and I were outside, just a few feet away from the inside library where Mahmut resided. The sky was slightly cloudy, but there was no rain incoming. There was also enough wind to provide a hassle for this type of training...But it's just the way I like it. With a twitching ear, I gently nudged the young falcon.
Isklander jolted, finally getting his eyes on my form and nowhere else. His vision seemed to zoom-in on the two heavy leaves I had on my back, one for each side.
"Eevee." Watch closely. These makeshift wings were hard enough to create. I will not do this again if he didn't pay attention the first time.
My weight shifted and I jumped off the patch of grass we stood on. Using Quick Attack, I gained altitude. Soon, a breeze started and my pace quickened. I could the leaves begin to puff backward due to the wind pushing against the front, and I quickly made a right turn to run up a tree a few feet. Once the altitude was right, I made a quick leap off, flattening my furry body to spread out my weight.
An eevee was not made to fly. I could only recreate how to spread your wings and begin the process of learning but that was it. There was nothing special about this.
...Yet the wind provided my form a few seconds of gliding, air running through my fur and whispering the music of the clouds through my ears. The lack of ground under my paws reminded my mind of the freedom I once had, adrenaline beginning to stir before I noticed the breeze was finally calming down.
Seconds later I hit the ground, paws stumbling as I did my absolute best to regain proper ground. I finally came to a full stop, shaking my fur to rid myself of both trapped emotions and an unkempt coat. I snatched up the two leaves I used in my mouth and padded over to a frozen Isklander. My gaze remained on the still bird until he finally squawked loudly, jumping circles around my form with high energy.
...Right. A childish bird; just what we need. Even if there was a language barrier between us; he understood my intentions. At least this meant he at least catch on how to begin flight.
Impatient, I used my bushy tail to shove him forwards; the bird crashing to the ground before he could even recover. For Mew's sake…
Thankfully the young bird recovered before my irritation could spike. Isklander shook himself off and gazed at the sky, a look of determination coming across his face. I watched his clawed feet slash at the ground before he sped off, imitating my movements in spreading his wings when gaining the aid of the wing. A snort of amusement left my nose as I watched the bird attempt to climb the tree and miserably fail. He tried the same thing seconds later but still ended up falling backward and onto his wings with a loud squawk.
I strolled on over, using my short muzzle to push him upwards. Isklander then stared at me, as if expecting answers. "Ve." You're not supposed to follow my exact instruction. Ah, but apparently 'Mankey see, mankey do.' I tilted my head in a certain direction, a clear field. I only used the tree for leverage. This body does not contain the proper wings to start off without a decent jump. Your form, however, does. The grass looked flat enough, tiny rocks hidden in the strands.
While the bird didn't understand my language, he was bright enough to know what I meant.
Isklander comically cracked his neck before running forwards once more, spreading his wings and taking a few tests jumps to gain altitude.
I sat down, tail relaxed as the wind blew through my fur. The incoming breeze was enough to give Islander a push, his claws tucking in on instinct. I watched the young bird soar for a couple of seconds before he gave his wings a mighty flap in order to take further into the air. It worked, even if he ended up twisting out of control from overconfidence. The wind then mercilessly tossed him around, the small falcon releasing cries of distress from being overtaken by the strong breeze.
Ah, to be naive and cocky. I remember those days. I calmly stood up and swiftly approached the falling bird. I leaped, grabbing Isklander between my teeth gently. He still struggled, but I was quick to place him down when my paws made contact with the grass. Isklander was quick to move a few feet away from me, giving my form the stink eye while he preened his messy feathers.
I only gave him the slightest look of amusement.
"That...Was simply wondrous!" A voice gasped, and my fur bristled at the thought of being watched. A low rumble filled my throat as I glared at the aged human who approached us. The smell of old paper tickled my nose as my paws began to grasp the ground. "I haven't seen anything like this. I heard stories about your bravery to lead an army...But I didn't think you were capable of demonstrating flight! What other wonders can you do, great one…?" His words were beginning to creep me out.
Mahmut peered from the window. "Sir? I think it just likes to fly. And its very smart, so I wouldn't bother it for playing…" He looked unsure, but his eyes also held a spark of interest in my actions. Nothing but books likely provided his curiosity in something else for the time being.
I drew in a breath and purposely glanced away, still bitter as a cheated persian. I didn't have to glance Little Mahmut's way to sense solemn emotion.
"No, Mahmut. This creature was teaching your bird the basics of flying. They weren't playing just playing around. Your falcon, Isklander; he's having trouble flying, correct?" The aged human inquired. "Flying experience. That's what your bird needs. Another creature who knows how to fly. It may not be able to achieve full flight, but gliding is a great start of course." The old human huffed, smiling gently while clasping his hands together.
"But...It doesn't have wings?" Mahmut called out in puzzlement.
The older human gained a brighter grin. "That's why leaves were used! Large enough to hold the needed weight...Very creative." There was a sigh of admiration. "I can see how it lead a group of sky animals into battle. It would make sense. They wouldn't follow anyone unworthy after all." A tiny nod was given in my direction.
I ignored the both of them.
With a swift movement, I guided Isklander
away from the nosy humans. I heard Mahmut call us back, but I refused to turn. Isklander did, but a curt growl kept the bird by my side. I pushed him ahead with a paw. My ears caught the aged human reassure Little Mahmut about our safety.
We don't need to be protected. At least I knew how to fight. Isklander was okay by my side. If I can help it, no other creature will grab him. That I can promise. The young chick shows potential after all. I may not be able to fly...But that doesn't mean I should let another with wings suffer. It's not Iskander's fault his group was slaughtered before he was able to stretch his wings fully.
We disappeared further into the property, but not too far in case we needed to turn back.
Once the annoyances were no longer a distraction, I glanced at my temporary student. "Ve." We're starting again. My ear twitched. Let us see if you could fly further than that. The young falcon looked determined to try another attempt. There was no reason to go easy on a dedicated chick.
I allowed myself a grin.
A tiny finger flicked my nose.
"Bad." Mahmut repeated for the tenth time, eying me with a frown. "You can't hurt Isklander, okay?" Another poke to my sensitive button nose. I bit down the urge to maul his finger, eyes narrowed. "Don't roughhouse with him." The human continued to scold, even if it wasn't effective with his soft child voice.
It's not my fault the idiot overworked himself! Don't accuse me, human! I curled up, hiding myself from the obnoxious child I used to value as a special human. Currently...He was being a brat. How dare he treat me as some sort of pet? I'm far more than a slave who bends to his will!
"Vee…" A gentle scratch behind the ears disrupted my anger for just a moment. I allowed Little Mahmut to pet my back, slightly cooled by the soft touch. This continued for several minutes before I grew tired from the relaxation. Tilting my head upwards, I shot Little Mahmut a heavy stare. The small human appeared to get it and gave my ears one last scratch before standing up and leaving to the other side of the room. I laid my head back down, nose wrinkling at the smell of old paper.
We were currently in the library. The room was brightly lit despite the sunset outside, and the many shelves in this area felt suffocating to small creatures like me. Halil, the aged human, was nearby. He was currently wrapping up Isklander's wings with bandages. "He'll be just fine, Mahmut." The older human assured the worried blond. "Isklander only has a few scratches from a fall. It was just an accident." He explained with a tiny smile.
I scoffed from my spot on the table, an ear twitching in annoyance.
"Okay...When will he be able to fly again?" Mahmut quietly inquired.
If you want to call his pathetic gliding 'flying' then maybe a few days. It was his own fault do try to do tricks. What an idiot. The dumb bird brain couldn't even fly correctly yet and he decided to dive upwards into the strong wing? Of course, he'd get knocked off course. The young chick was lucky I was watching or he might've been blown out of the property without anyone noticing.
"A few days at the very least." The aged human replied. "Then we can take off the bandages and he should be good as new." Little Mahmut looked relieved at this, and seconds later I felt a stern stare from the child.
"I'm going to watch them when they're together...I don't want either of them getting hurt." Mahmut mumbled, and I bristled despite his words of worry.
"You could," Halil helpfully offered. "Or you could trust them." The older human chuckled when the child gave him a look of puzzlement. "You see, Mahmut...Isklander may still be a chick, but your other friend is quite the adult." At Mahmut's blank stare, Halil swiftly continued. "Accidents are bound to happen in nature. What I mean is your woolly companion is responsible enough to be left alone, so you don't need to worry about their safety." A moment of silence. "Do you understand?"
I watched Little Mahmut study me in the corner of my ears. I gave him no visible reaction, only resting my head on the cool table.
"I understand." His answer was a bit frustrated, but there was a hint of understanding. "I'm going to leave them alone more often when Isklander is older," Mahmut claimed seconds afterward, purposely ignoring the aged human's chuckles. "That sounds okay..."
"Very well, Mahmut. You can do that." Halil replied with a welcoming smile. "Aside from this resolved issue, do you have any further questions?" And by Mahmut's quick nod; the two dived into a conversation about their nation. I didn't understand them at all, so I allowed myself to relax and watch the idiotic humans talk about whatever. They seemed engrossed in the topic, an atmosphere of heaviness beginning to weigh around the room.
Ugh, suffocating. With a quick pressure of my paws, I left my spot to reach my pitiful winged student. Isklander was currently asleep, bandaged wings apparently forgotten as the bird limply laid on the table as if it was a comfy bed. I nudged him with a paw, but he didn't wake. Of course, I rolled my eyes. The snorlax is too exhausted from overworking himself. What a troublesome bird you are. Even if I knew those excited to fly gladly push their limits to become masters. There can't be progress if injuries happen left from right. I'm going to have to teach him a lesson about being careful. I sat beside the resting bird, viewing Halil showing Mahmat a thick book.
...I still don't know what Mahmut's studying. I never bothered to find out, but the conversations he had with the older human left my nerves irked since I couldn't understand the gist.
Thankfully the mystery of Mahmut's study sessions didn't last long.
Weeks later, Little Mahmut had gathered both Isklander and I. The small human placed us in the middle of his bed as he knelt on the floor. It was a 'herd-meeting' of sorts, judging by Mahmut's slightly scrunched face in an attempt to be serious. He may have very future leader characteristics, but Little Mahmut needs much more experience. His round blue hues had also recently gained a spark of life again, but it was nothing too major. The sheet was awfully soft, and I debated taking a nap then and there. Unfortunately, the human pup would likely flick my nose(again) if I did that.
I snuck a glance to Isklander, but the young falcon was too busy staring at Mahmut.
...At least one of us is willing to suck it up and act like a loyal pet. I yawned, tail flicking. It certainly won't ever be me.
"Okay guys," Little Mahmut finally began, courage surrounding his aura. The sudden wave of confidence felt almost refreshing, and I glanced up; my attention finally caught by the positive vibes. "I've been thinking about it for a while now," He spoke without averting his eyes from the two of us. "I decided I want to be...A Pasha." Silence followed afterward, and Isklander took this as the time to casually preen his wings.
I can't believe it, My mind suddenly whispered as I simply stared holes into the human pup. He told his decision to the two of his animal companions because he has no other friends. A light snort left my nose, "Eevee." I don't even know what a Pasha is. My paws stretched forwards as my boredom increased, pushing past Mahmut's resolve. I don't really care what you want to be. I'm only here for the journey.
Little Mahmut wasn't deterred but that was mainly because he had no idea what I was thinking. "If I become a Pasha, then I can help prevent…" Mahmut's eyes grew hazy at a certain memory. The human pup shivered visibly, and I patiently waited for him to snap out of it.
Isklander, however, released a 'caw' from his beak, effectively calling Mahmut back to the present.
"Then...I can help prevent disasters like that from happening ever again!" Little Mahmut grit with determination flaming in his pretty hues. There was conviction in his voice, enough for me to realize he was serious. Considering Mahmut, he was follow through with his dream.
I snorted lightly in amusement; Isklander beside me tilting his head. Despite the bird's actions, the young falcon understood the human pup had determined his very own goal.
"Can I count on you two?" Mahmut offered a hand toward us, his tiny fingers inches away from our relaxed forms. He didn't stretch forwards, wanting our approval. Isklander was quick to lean his head into the digits, the bird releasing a soft breath of promise. The blond human gained a tiny smile at this, and his eyes trailed over to mine. A flash of wariness fell through his eyes as he considered an outside source for my decision.
It's not like I have a choice. The human pup acts as if I actually had a decision to make in this matter. That was incorrect, and I stood indifferently due to my short size and attitude. I could feel two pairs of eyes on me as I brushed my nose with his hand. I made eye-contact with Mahmut, gaze unwavering.
Seconds later, Isklander and I were gripped in an embrace by small arms. I didn't struggle, unlike the young falcon who couldn't handle a hug by a human pup. His grip was warm and gentle despite the quick hug. "I love you guys." Mahmut murmured, eyes shut tightly. "Let's look after one another, okay?" His voice was quiet, a quiver. There was something else resting underneath.
It then struck me he was scared of being alone. Little Mahmut, who lost his mother and village, was deathly afraid of being alone in this wide world. The only familiarity he had left was us. And you know what? It's a little pitiful to think about. However, that's alright. His fears weren't one to dwell on. I was bound by a promise, a contract which wouldn't break so easily. My word is absolute when I make a vow.
I laid my head on Mahmut's chest as he cradled us in his arms. His breathing was slightly erratic, proving he wasn't fully recovered despite the event having occurred about a year ago. His arms also trembled but he didn't cry. His round eyes were hazy again, proving he was lost in a trail of horrible memories. The scars would remain, and there was always the possibility of the disability to swallow him up due to these horrid memoirs.
Troublesome.
I had far too many tasks, but I suppose aiding Mahmut's mental state will take priority.