The night was late, and a profound silence had fallen. Moonlight spilled its cool, clear glow across the ground.
The nights had grown increasingly cool with the coming of autumn.
Renee had just arrived home and was standing in the courtyard, listening to her furry children all chattering at once.
Blueberry said, "Earlier today, that peregrine falcon, Zephyr, came by. He left when he saw you weren't here."
Pudding tattled, "Bella and Pippi had a fight today."
Bella hurriedly explained, "We already made up!"
Pippi nodded his head vigorously. "WOOF! Bella and I are best friends!"
Renee's lips curved into a smile, her eyes filled with mirth.
"Renee!" A faint voice suddenly called out.
Renee froze, a puzzled look on her face. She murmured, "I think someone's calling me. Did you guys hear anything?"
"We heard him," Bella said before scampering toward the main gate. "He's over there!"
