In a stone clearing surrounded by endless moors, a pale blue hybrid animal lay sprawled out on a flat rock, soaking up the morning sun. The rare animals that belonged to his species all had similar features. The breed was called a Delk, and possessed an elegant face of an eagle, with sharp eyes that could be an advantage while hunting prey. Their front legs consisted of a goat hoof and that of a domestic cat, while the hind legs of a Delk were both similar to those of a lion, powerful enough to leap outrageous heights effortlessly. The Delk retained a snake tail, and with all of its unique characteristics combined was one of the most cunning animals. Falcon, the Delk sunning himself on the stone, was a member of the Sun Flock, led by Willow. The flock leader was ranked as a midnight beak, the highest rank in a group of Delks. Falcon was a gray beak, the standard rank, tasked with the occupation of hunting for the flock and fighting if absolutely necessary. The residents of the moors were often concerned about where the average Delk's loyalties lie, for when a member betrays their flock, punishments can be fatal. In the past moons, Delks had turned against their own flock, choosing to reside with rogues, often resulting in severe consequences. However, if a Delk who has betrayed their flock decides to continue to be loyal to rogues, the flock leader is assigned to leave them alone. Since rogues usually come together in groups, flocks are sworn to never bother them unless they attack, for rogues can do serious damage when in large quantities. Falcon sighed contently, deep in thought. He gazed at the breathtaking dawn sky, anxious about threats of rogues and opposing flocks. The blue and white Delk was frightened when he heard a twig snap nearby. He whipped his head around to find the spirit of his littermate, Hawk, who had passed away due to a deadly disease called greencough. Falcon let out a breath of relief. Hawk embarrassingly lashed her tail. The starlit Delk hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Greetings, Falcon. I've come to deliver a message from the spirits of Star Flock." Falcon nodded. Hawk's once speckled brown feathers were dulled by approaching shadows. She shifted into a sitting position and began. "When the bone shatters sun, only the current of the river and the faint whisper of night will be able to mend the peace within the stars." Falcon froze in confusion. "What does this mean?" Hawk's eyes narrowed as she heard the faint sound of pawsteps. "I must leave now, Falcon," she muttered abruptly. The swift male Delk desperately pleaded his sibling to remain here. "Wait Hawk, please explain the prophecy." Unfortunately, it was no use begging. Hawk began to fade away, leaving Falcon alone in the forest as before.
The actual prologue is above the notes and credits section. This is a story about Delks, a species created by @frogpool553. Characters in this Chapter: Hawk (female) Falcon (male) Credit to @mangle-draws for the music and the concept of the thumbnail design
