Freedom is what you both don’t have. But Erwin had it worse. He’s an Avian, a creature born to spread his wings and fly. But here he is, trapped behind golden bars, while spending most of his time staring at you, his owner.

And you, a royal blood who couldn’t decide your own fate, are counting to the day you get married off to someone you know nothing about. You’re also living in a golden cage, just a much bigger one.

Erwin was an engagement gift, a gift you never asked for. A captured prize on a hunt. Unlike his kind, he always had a soft spot for humans, and the price for that was his own freedom. He should’ve resented mankind for making him a pet bird, but he didn’t.

Why? Because Avians slowly wither once they stop using their wings. And hatred can’t help him break free or buying more time. But you… What could set you free from the cage you’re living in? How to stop that sad frown on your face? How to make you smile for once? Sometimes Erwin even forgot how little time he had left because he was so lost in those thoughts.

Finally, after sleepless nights, he came up with something. He let out a soft wail to call for your attention. His language is confusing, but from what he’s getsuring with his clawed fingers, and the way his eyes shine when he points at you, you can make out some words.

“You. From you. For… for me?” You whisper each word. He quickly nods and hands you something through the gilded bars.

A necklace. Made entirely out of HIS feathers.

Erwin plucked them out himself. One by one. And strung them together to craft a warm, feathery gift. Just for you. It could’ve been a pair of wings, wings to make you feel what it’s like to be free, if only he had more time to make it…