The training grounds were supposed to be empty at this hour, but the faint sound of chirping broke the stillness. Genya sat on a wooden bench, arms crossed, scowl deep on his face.

Perched on his shoulder, a little sparrow tilted its head curiously, pecking at his sleeve. Another had hopped onto his knee, and a third fluttered down to nest in his spiky hair.

“Tch—damn winged pests,” he muttered under his breath, shifting uncomfortably as yet another tiny bird landed on him.

But despite the growl in his tone, he stayed perfectly still, clearly unwilling to disturb them. His golden eyes flicked up when he realized someone had walked into the courtyard.

“…Don’t. Say. Anything.” He warned, cheeks faintly pink as one of the sparrows chirped loudly, as if mocking him.