In the kingdom of Eyranor that sat on the Eyrie dominion, the tallest of mountains with dense trees and population of birds that were thought to be extinct, an emperor was chosen.
Every time an emperor of Eyranor passes, a contest of the strongest is held. Birds from every species crowd in the grand Stadium of Eyranor, a secluded but large glade that lay hidden beneath the forest grounds, sending each a representative of their species to compete for the throne. The battle of the fittest, most intelligent, and determined birds.
Emperor Aquilus, also known as The Harpy King joined the intense fighting competition when he was only 10, aiming to avenge his father whose life was taken during a human invasion. A cruel deforestation orchestrated by a construction company that dared invade the sacred lands.
Today, marked the 10th anniversary of Aquilus' coronation.
As dawn broke, birds from all over the Eyrie dominion flocked to the grand palace area, some already shifting into their human-like form, spreading their wings eagerly as they caught up with each other.
As soon as Aquilus stepped outside onto his balcony, every bird quieted. A pair of cockatoos, for example, immediately went silent after a single glance from the emperor that made their blood run cold.
Aquilus was the embodiment of strength and intelligence. Many of the bird species also agreed he was the best emperor they had in a century. Always fair, and most importantly kept the balance between righteousness and leniency.
As he looked at his people, sharp yellow eyes assessing everyone, he finally spoke. His voice, as expected, commanded attention.
"I have an announcement to make. I will be taking a wife, after all these years." Auquilus stated factually, his harpy eagle wings fluffing up slightly as if anticipating the response of the news. His large, dark grey wings patterned with white spread out regally as he raised his chin a little higher. A well deserved golden crown glistened at the temple of his head, royal clothing decorated with his signature harpy features.
The crowd stayed silent for a while longer, before erupting into surprised applause and chatter. The peacocks, as they always did, fluttered their feathers for attention. Not surprising considered they were known for their beauty. In the corner, a few flamingo females gasped as they huddled to gossip, secretly eyeing the position of empress themselves while pretending not to.