Kaelan emerged from the forest just as the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. The small red bird, Flame, the Guardian Spirit, was now perched on his shoulder, chirping softly as they made their way back toward the Winchester mansion.
As they reached the mansion, the bird's voice echoed in Kaelan's mind, "I'm hungry. I can't wait to finally taste what you humans eat."
Kaelan smiled. "Be patient, Flame. First, we both need a bath. Even with feathers, you still need to stay clean."
The bird perched on his shoulder ruffled its bright red feathers, letting out a soft chirp of protest.
Nathaniel was waiting for him by the door. "Welcome back, young master Kaelan," he said, but then froze as he spotted the tiny red bird on Kaelan's shoulder.
"His name is Flame," Kaelan said, grinning at Nathaniel's surprised expression.
Nathaniel nodded. "That's a nice name, young master Kaelan."
With a satisfied smile, Kaelan turned to head toward his room, Flame chirping contentedly as they walked. As they arrived, Kaelan opened the door and let the little bird fly around, watching it explore curiously from one corner to another.
Kaelan closed the door behind him. "Wait for me while I prepare our bath."
Flame circled the room, inspecting every nook and cranny. Kaelan chuckled softly, enjoying the sight of the small creature taking in its surroundings with such wonder. He then moved to the bathroom, feeling a sense of warmth wash over him as he filled the tub with water.
"I've never had a bird in my shower before," Kaelan murmured as he gathered towels and soaps. He smiled at the thought, then turned back toward the room to call for Flame.
"Time for your bath, Flame!" he called, watching the bird fly toward him and land in his hands as Kaelan took him into the bathroom.
He set the bird on the edge of the bathtub. Flame chirped eagerly, tilting its head as if to say it was ready for the adventure.
"Let's see how you like it," Kaelan said, grinning as he gently splashed a few drops of water in the bird's direction. Flame ruffled its feathers in response, clearly intrigued by the warm water.
Kaelan carefully lifted Flame and placed the small bird in the tub, supporting him from below. "Don't worry; I've got you," he reassured, watching as Flame flapped its wings and splashed water playfully. Kaelan laughed, enjoying the sight of Flame reveling in its bath. "Looks like you're a natural!"
After a few moments of splashing, Kaelan gently lathered some mild soap in one hand and carefully applied it to Flame's feathers, being sure to avoid the bird's face. "Just a little soap to help you shine," he said, keeping his tone light and reassuring.
Once he had lathered Flame up, Kaelan carefully rinsed the soap off, letting warm water cascade over the bird. He ensured all the soap was washed away before lifting Flame from the tub and gently drying it off with a soft towel. Flame fluffed its feathers, looking both refreshed and delighted.
"Thank you, Kaelan!" Flame chirped, tilting its head and flashing its bright eyes as Kaelan heard the voice echoing in his mind.
"You're welcome! Now, my turn," Kaelan replied with a smile. Flame then flew to his room, settling on the bed to wait for him.
After Kaelan showered and changed, he walked to the dining room with Flame perched on his shoulder. Everyone was already there, waiting for him.
"You're here!" Duke exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise at the small bird on Kaelan's shoulder.
"Wow, you have a bird!" Lily added, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"I found Flame in the forest," Kaelan explained, shifting slightly under the weight of the little bird. "Father, Mother, can I raise this little one?" he asked hopefully.
The Duchess, Evelyn, froze at the sound of Kaelan calling her "Mother." She had waited so long to hear that, and a wave of emotions surged through her: joy, relief, and an overwhelming sense of connection.
"Of course you can raise him, Kaelan," she replied softly, her voice filled with warmth. "But you must promise to take good care of him."
Kaelan's face broke into a wide grin, and he nodded eagerly. "I promise! Flame will be well cared for."
Evelyn glanced at her husband. Lucian nodded approvingly at her decision, pleased that Kaelan had finally found the comfort to call her "Mother." It had been a long journey for both of them, and this moment felt like a victory.
He understood how much she had longed for this bond and had patiently waited for Kaelan to feel comfortable enough to embrace it. They both recognized that trust and affection would take time, but today marked a significant step in their relationship.
Dinner started as Kaelan sat between the Duke and Cedric. The family saw that while he ate, he also fed Flame. The little bird chirped happily, enjoying the food. What they didn't know was that Flame was telling Kaelan what he wanted to eat in his mind, and Kaelan was giving him exactly what he wanted.
"I didn't know birds could eat what we eat. I thought they only ate worms," Cedric said, watching in amazement as Kaelan offered Flame a piece of bread. "Isn't that risky? What if he gets sick from it?"
Kaelan smiled and replied, "Some birds can eat a variety of foods. It all depends on their preferences."
As he fed Flame, Kaelan suddenly heard a voice in his mind: *I don't like worms and have never eaten them! I'm a special bird who only eats fruits!*
The Duke chimed in, "That's true, Cedric. Birds can have quite a diverse diet. Just make sure you're feeding him safe foods, Kaelan."
"I will, Father," Kaelan said, glancing affectionately at Flame as the bird nibbled happily. "I want him to be healthy and happy."