Chapter 15: The Eagle, the Hawk, and the Buzzard
Two years had passed since Edward's banishment, and in that time, Callahan Condor had stepped up to fill the vacant mayoral position, winning by default. The town had healed from the wounds of the past for now, the fabric's whispers being a gentle reminder of the unity they had found in their struggle. The Buzzard hat shop was now a beacon of friendship, even though Becky had politely turned down the offer to be the town mayor, not interested in politics, but only to be with her family and for things to go back to the way they had been before Jasper showed up. The enchanted fabric had been returned to the whispers of the sacred lands, where it remained under the vigilant watch of Whispering Wings, promising that she will return someday when the time was right. The voices and dreams had then faded and stopped afterwards to the relief of Avery and Becky, even when the rest of the stolen artifacts were given back to where they had been swiped, thanks to the help of the law birds and the rest of the law folks across Moo Mesa. They didn't even care anymore if it meant losing a little extra money, not when they already had enough to provide for themselves before. The big lesson they learned from everything was to never make deals with someone they barely know when his name was not on the list of professional coworkers.
Baron had grown into a curious and adventurous six-year-old buzzard, with feathers the color of the desert sunset. His love for the ranch life was clear, following in Avery's footsteps with a passion for horseback riding and cattle herding, still seeing Clarence as a role model for other things. Yet, amidst the joy of growing up and learning the ropes of the ranch, there was a piece of him that felt incomplete. A friend he once knew was missing, a friend named Harmony. But the name was just a distant memory, a whisper of a melody that he couldn't quite recall the lyrics to. For two long years, Harmony had been kept from him and the other children, hidden away in the safety of the HawkTail ranch. Ruby's fear of losing her daughter had grown into a cage around Harmony, keeping her safe but also keeping her apart from the one friend who was too young then to even remember that he set eyes on her the first time as a baby.
Becky often watched her son with a touch of sadness, knowing that he once had a bond with Harmony that was now lost to time. She had hoped that as he grew, the friendship would blossom once more, but the distance and the whispers of the town had kept them apart. Even Clarence had become more wary, his eyes always looking over his shoulder, the weight of Jasper's villainy still heavy on his mind. It was a secret they all held close, a burden that had shaped High Wind Gulch into a place of both unity and fear.
As Baron grew, he heard tales of the enchanted fabric and the friendship between Ruby and Becky, but the details remained fuzzy. He knew that Harmony was out there, somewhere, but the reason behind her disappearance remained a mystery. His curiosity grew with each passing day, and he began to feel a restlessness that the open skies of the ranch could not quench. He needed to find out what had happened to his friend, to understand the shadows that had fallen over their town. And during this time, a tornado swept partly through their town, damaging parts of the schoolhouse where it had to be rebuilt with the lost funds Edward had used for the construction site. It was not ready yet and children didn't start school until they turned eight.
Clarence, too, felt the burden of the secret weighing heavily on his heart. He knew that Harmony's friendship was vital for Baron, not just as a child but for the future of High Wind Gulch. The town had to move forward, to become a place where all creatures, regardless of their feathers, fur, scales, or differences could live in peace. But Ruby remained steadfast, her fear for her daughter's safety a wall that no words could breach.
One evening, as the sun painted the sky with strokes of gold and pink, Clarence approached Becky on the day before Baron's sixth birthday with a look of solemn determination as he went into the hat shop. "Becky," he began, his voice low and measured, "I reckon you grasp Ruby's fright, but it's high time we had a chinwag with her. Harmony's growin' up, and she oughta be part of this here town, learnin' from folks, and spreadin' that unity message we all gotta keep holdin' on to."
Becky nodded, understanding the gravity of Clarence's words. "I know you're right," she said, her voice barely a whisper. "But it's hard for her to let go, especially after what happened with Jasper. And tomorrow is our son's birthday. He'll be six years old then."
Clarence sighed heavily, his feathers ruffling in the gentle breeze that wafted through the open door of the hat shop. "I know it's tough, Becky," he said, his eyes reflecting the warm light of the setting sun. "But we can't be holdin' onto them in the nest forever. They gotta spread their wings and ride the wind on their own someday."
Becky looked at him, her eyes filled with a quiet strength that had seen her through many storms. "Then I reckon I'll talk with Avery by sundown," she promised. "We'll find out what's best for our little young'uns."
That night, after Avery had put Baron to bed, Becky sat him down by the warmth of their fireplace. "Avery," she began, her voice gentle but firm. "We can't keep Harmony 'n Baron apart forever. Their bond's as old as the stars, 'n it's high time we let 'em be pals again."
Avery nodded slowly, his eyes reflecting the flickering firelight. "I know you're right, Becky," he conceded. "But it ain't just 'bout Jasper no more. It's 'bout the whispers in the breeze, how folks cast their eyes upon us. I just want him to grow up free from all that... without bein' looked at like he's somethin' else."
They sat in silence for a moment, the crackle of the fire the only sound in the room. Then Becky reached out and placed her hand on Avery's. "Reckon even Ruby oughta know this here," she said softly. "He's gotta rustle up the learnin' to soar in the same skies as all the rest. And who knows? Maybe Harmony's the gal that'll help him find his wings."
Avery squeezed Becky's hand; his worries momentarily forgotten in the warmth of her touch. "You're right," he said with a firm nod. "We'll hand him some greenbacks to rustle up a special trinket from Miles' mercantile. Maybe a small gift for Harmony as well."
The following morning dawned bright and clear, the perfect backdrop for Baron's sixth birthday. After a hearty breakfast of eggs picked from the chicken coop, bacon, and Becky's famous gravy-soaked biscuits, Avery called Baron over to the side of the table. "Here ya go, son," he said, handing over a small leather pouch filled with coins. "This here's for you to buy somethin' that'll make your heart soar."
Baron's eyes lit up with excitement as he felt the weight of the coins in his hand. "But Pa," he said, his voice filled with wonder, "Why two silver pieces?"
Avery's smile grew wider. "Well, son," he drawled, "Today's your birthday, and I reckon it's time you learn 'bout the joy of gifts and friendship. Take this money to Miles' store and pick somethin' that'll make your heart soar, but don't forget to grab somethin' for Harmony. She's been cooped up at the HawkTail Ranch, and I've a feelin' she'd appreciate seein' you."
Baron nodded solemnly, his eyes reflecting the excitement of the journey ahead. "I will, Pa."
Becky watched her son disappear down the dusty trail, her heart swelling with pride. "He's growin' up fast," she murmured to herself.
As Baron approached the edge of town, the buildings grew closer together, and the sound of life grew louder. The clang of blacksmiths' hammers echoed down the street, mingling with the laughter of children playing tag and the distant sound of a banjo plucking out a cheerful tune. High above, Clarence and a couple of his trusted law birds, Deputy Roderick Raptor and Deputy Francis Feathers, marched lazily in their boots and spurs clanking on the streets, their sharp eyes scanning the town for any signs of trouble. Despite the recent calm, they knew that danger could always be just around the corner in a place like High Wind Gulch.
Baron held out the leather pouch with both hands, feeling the weight of his newfound responsibility. "Ma and Pa gave me this for my birthday," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm to buy something that makes my heart soar, and maybe a little somethin' for Harmony too."
Miles' eyes twinkled with mischief as he leaned over the counter. "Well, now," he said, his deep voice rumbling like distant thunder. "You come on in and look around. I reckon I got just the thing for you."
Baron's heart raced as he took in the treasure trove before him. His eyes darted from shiny trinkets to colorful fabrics, each item whispering a promise of adventure and friendship. He knew he couldn't stay in the store forever, but for now, the world outside could wait.
After what felt like hours but was really just a few moments, Baron's gaze fell upon a wooden toy horse, carved with intricate detail and painted with a shimmering golden mane. It was the perfect gift for Harmony, reminding him of the tales Clarence had shared of her love for horses. With a grin, he set aside one of the silver coins for the toy. Then, his eyes landed on a small book titled "The Skies of Moo Mesa," filled with illustrations of the vast lands and creatures beyond High Wind Gulch. It was just what he needed to learn about the world beyond the gulch and perhaps understand his own destiny. Even if he only knew how to read a little, it still looked like a great book for him.
Miles noticed the book in Baron's beak and chuckled. "That's a fine choice, young'un," he said, his eyes sparkling with approval. "You can never go wrong with knowledge."
Baron nodded solemnly, the weight of the book feeling just right in his grip. He knew that learning was important, especially since he had missed out on the friendship and schooling that Harmony had enjoyed at the HawkTail ranch. With the second silver piece, he bought the book and the wooden horse, the coins exchanging hands with a metallic clink.
"I hope she likes what I got for her," Baron said, being able to pay for the items. "Do you think it's enough?"
Miles chuckled, his large form not matching his gentle spirit. "I reckon it's the thought that counts, son," he said, placing the toy horse in a small sack. "Now go on, make that birthday count."
The alleyway was narrow, with walls of adobe buildings rising high on either side, creating a canyon of shadows. As he walked, the sounds of the town faded away, leaving him with only the occasional echo of distant laughter and the rustle of the wind. It was quieter here, and he felt his heart beating faster as he approached the ranch. He was so lost in thought that he didn't notice the rope snaking out of the shadows until it was too late. With a yelp, he was tripped and sent tumbling into a pile of hay, the wind knocked out of him.
Baron looked up, his vision swimming with stars, to find Edmund Nosedive, now a gangly buck with a smug grin on his face. "Well, if it ain't the little buzzard," he sneered. "Where're you off to with that fancy sack?"
Baron's cheeks flushed with anger, but he knew better than to argue with Edmund. "Ain't none o' yer business," he managed to croak out, pushing himself up to his feet and dusting off his feathers. "I'm just deliverin' a birthday gift to Harmony." He barely recognized Edmund himself, having not seen him in two years since the capture of Jackalope Jasper. The young bald eagle boy wore a white shirt with a dark blue waistcoat, and khaki pants with brown shoes.
Edmund's smile grew wider, revealing a sharp beak. "Oh, really?" he said, dripping with sarcasm. "A gift for the sheriff's precious little hawk?"
Baron clutched the sack with Harmony's toy horse tightly, his feathers bristling. "What's it to you?" he spat, trying to keep the fear from his voice.
Edmund took a step closer, his eyes narrowing. "Let's just say I got a bone to pick with your family," he said, his voice low and threatening. "And I reckon takin' this from you'll be a fine start." In a haste, he snatched the bag away from Baron.
Baron looked up to see three other young birds emerge from the shadows, all of them looking like they were ready for a fight. They were a mix of species: a burly young reptilian lizard, a sleek cobalt-blue raven, and a sneaky-looking great horned owl. Each one had a look of spite in their eyes, clearly enjoying the idea of tormenting a vulture like him, even wearing the same kind of clothes similar to Edmund's. "These are the fine folks who've been schooled alongside me," Edmund said, gesturing to his cohorts. "We've learned all about the superiority of hawks and eagles, and how the likes of you just don't belong here."
The lizard, who introduced himself as Billy Bob Fork-Tongue, smacked his lips with a grin. "Yeah, we've been watchin' you, Buzzard," he hissed. "Thinkin' you're better than us, with your shaggy feathers and your sheriff buddy."
The raven, a girl named Ravenna, cackled. "We know all about your kind," she said, her eyes glinting maliciously. "Always tryin' to steal what's not yours, like your pa did with those horses."
Baron was outraged hearing that, standing up in a fury. "My pa ain't never been no thief! He ain't stole a thing in his whole life!"
The owl, a boy named Orville, chuckled darkly. "That's what they all say," he quipped, flexing his claws. "But we know better, don't we?"
"What do you mean?" Baron demanded, hardly knowing what else to expect from these bullies, but wanting nothing more than to get that gift bag back from them.
Edmund's smirk grew even more smug. "Why, your pa's always been a bit of a scavenger, ain't he?" He said, pacing around Baron who was now standing firmly on his legs, ready to defend himself. "Takin' what he wants, leavin' the mess for others to deal with."
Baron's feathers stood on end. "That ain't true!" He yelled, but his voice was drowned out by the laughter of the four bullies surrounding him. "My pa ain't no thief! You're a liar!" He kicked the dirt at Edmund's legs.
The young eagle's grin faltered for a moment, but he quickly regained his composure. "You know nothin' 'bout the world, Buzzard," he spat. "You're just a dumb creature of the desert, living off the scraps we leave behind."
Baron's anger boiled over. He didn't care if they were bigger or stronger, he was going to get Harmony's gift back. He lunged at Edmund, but the eagle was too fast. The next thing he knew, he was on the ground again, the wind knocked out of him. The four bullies cackled as they circled him, the dust from the alley rising in a cloud around them.
With a fierce roar, Baron swiped his foot, catching Edmund's shin with surprising force. The eagle yelped and stumbled back, giving Baron time to scramble to his feet, too angry and scared to think about the sack, and took off running. His legs were short, but he had the heart of a buzzard that could run fast, and he darted through the alleyways with surprising speed, his little wings flapping for balance. The bullies took off after him, their laughter turning to grunts of effort as they chased him through the town.
Baron's eyes darted left and right, searching for a place to hide. Spotting a gap between two buildings, he squeezed through, emerging into a dusty backstreet. The barn of the town's saloon loomed ahead, and he made a beeline for it, ducking behind the large wooden structure just as the bullies turned the corner. He could hear their heavy footsteps, the sound of their breathing echoing in the stillness. For a moment, he thought he'd lost them, but then he heard the distinctive clack of Ravenna's boots on the cobblestone, and his heart sank.
He crouched low, his feathers flattened against the barn's rough exterior. The smell of old hay and stale whiskey filled his nostrils as he held his breath, listening to the taunts of the bullies as they grew closer. "Come out, come out, wherever you are," Edmund called, his voice dripping with mock cheer. "We ain't gonna hurt ya, we just wanna talk."
Baron knew better than to trust that sneer. He waited, his heart thundering in his chest, until the footsteps grew fainter and eventually disappeared. He peeked around the corner, his eyes scanning the empty street. They were gone. With a sigh of relief, he straightened up, his muscles aching from the tension. He looked down at the book still clutched in his hand. It was a little worse for wear, but the pages remained intact. The gift for Harmony, however, was gone.
He slumped against the barn wall, feeling the rough wood dig into his back. Tears stung his eyes as he realized what he'd done. He'd not only lost the gift for his best friend but also the second silver piece Avery had given him. The wind picked up, blowing dust into his eyes and making him squint. "What am I gonna do?" He whispered to himself, feeling the weight of his failure. "Ma and Pa are gonna be so disappointed in me." This was supposed to be his birthday and a special moment for the girl he liked. But now he had let everyone down with his failure. How can he even go home and face his parents as they light up his birthday cake?
The thought of their disappointed faces was too much to bear. He knew they'd always tried their best to keep him safe from the cruelty of the world, but here he was, unable to even handle a simple errand without getting into trouble. Baron buried his face in his lap, his wings wrapping around his legs in a desperate attempt to shield himself from the pain of his own inadequacy. The book lay forgotten beside him, its pages fluttering in the breeze.
The sun was high in the sky, casting a harsh light across the alley, highlighting the dust that danced in the air. Baron's sobs grew quieter, replaced by the occasional sniffle. He felt so small and powerless, like the tiny, weak chick he had been when they first brought him home. He secretly prayed and wished that someone or something could help him. Maybe he could find Sheriff HawkTail? That could work. But if he couldn't find him, maybe...
Baron's thoughts were interrupted by a gentle touch on his shoulder. He jumped, his heart racing, expecting the worst. He turned to find Harmony standing there, wearing a light aqua pioneer dress with a white apron, and brown boots, her amber eyes filled with concern. "What's wrong?" She asked, kneeling down beside him. The sight of her, with her warm smile and gentle nature, was like a beacon of hope in the dark alley. Although she and Baron were only toddlers when they first met and had forgotten each other for a time, somehow, she recognized who this buzzard boy might be from what her parents told her. "It's me, Harmony. You must be Baron...just like Pa told me."
Baron looked up at her, his eyes red and puffy from crying. "I-I lost the gift," he stammered, holding up the book. "And I lost the other silver piece too." He couldn't bring himself to say how it had happened, the fear of her knowing the truth about his encounter with Edmund was too much.
Harmony's expression softened, and she reached out to take his hand. "It's okay," she said gently. "We'll get it back. Tell me what happened. Maybe I can help."
Baron took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. "Edmund Nosedive took it," he said, his voice shaking. "Him and his friends. They said bad things about Pa and called me a thief."
Harmony's eyes grew stern, and she squeezed his hand. "Baron, you ain't no thief," she assured him. "And your pa is the best man I know. Let's go to my daddy, Sheriff Clarence. He'll know what to do." For a five-year-old hawk girl, Harmony had ambition, independence, and determination in her to try and do what was right.
Baron nodded, wiping his eyes with the back of his arm. "But they're so big and mean," he murmured, fear clutching at his heart. "They'll just take it again." And another thought came to his troubled mind. "And what if we can't find him?"
"Don't you worry," Harmony said, her voice firm. "My daddy won't let them get away with it. We'll get your silver piece back, and we'll show 'em that we' ain't afraid of them." She stood up, pulling Baron to his feet with surprising strength for a young hawk girl. "Come on, let's go."
They made their way back to the sheriff's office, their footsteps echoing through the empty alleyways. When they arrived, the doors were wide open, and the room was unnaturally quiet. A young owl, the office assistant, looked up from his desk. "Is Sheriff Clarence here?" Harmony asked, her voice hopeful.
The owl, whose name tag read 'Oliver', shook his head sadly. "He had to ride out," Oliver said, his eyes full of concern. "There's a stampede headin' straight for the McFly ranch. He took the law birds with him to stop it."
Baron's heart sank. "But who's gonna help us now?" He asked, feeling lost and overwhelmed. The thought of facing Edmund and his friends without Clarence was terrifying.
Harmony looked at him with a steely determination that belied her tender age. "I'll help you," she said, her voice steady. "My pa taught me a few things when he didn't think Ma was lookin'. And I reckon I know a thing or two about wranglin'." She looked at a lasso on the side of the wall, even a long stick.
Baron felt a glimmer of hope. He knew Harmony was brave, but he wasn't so sure about her wrangling skills. "But, Harmony," he protested, "They're big, we're mighty small."
Harmony looked at him with a glimmer in her eye. "Y'all don't recall the tale Pa spun 'bout the buzzard and the rattler?" she said, her voice filled with the same spirit her father had when telling tall tales around the campfire. "Sometimes, size don't matter. It's the heart that counts."
Baron's doubt began to wane as he saw the fire in Harmony's eyes. He knew she was right. He had seen his pa Avery stand up to bullies before, and he had heard Clarence's stories of fighting for justice. He might've forgotten Harmony for a time those last two years, but the sight of her was bringing back other memories they had before the day of his sixth birthday. "Alright," he said, "What's the plan?"
Harmony got Baron to follow her as they headed towards the lake, following the sound of laughter and the occasional splash. As they got closer, they could see Edmund and his gang, lounging by the water's edge, the stolen sack lying at their feet.
"Look what we got here," Billy Bob sneered, holding up a toy horse that was slightly damp. "A little present for the buzzard brat."
Baron's feathers bristled, and Harmony's grip on the stick tightened. They watched from the cover of the scrub brush, their hearts racing. "Looks like we got ourselves a little surprise," she murmured, her eyes never leaving the bullies. "But we ain't gonna let 'em get away with this."
The plan was simple: distract, recover, and retreat. Harmony took a deep breath and whispered a prayer to the Spirit of the West, asking for guidance and protection. Then, with a fierce cry, she charged out of the bushes, the stick held high. The bullies looked up, startled, and Edmund's smug grin faltered.
"You little..." He started to get up, but Baron darted forward, scooping up the sack in his hands before the eagle could react.
Ravenna and Orville leaped to their feet, but they weren't quick enough. Harmony swung the stick like a lasso, catching Ravenna around the neck. The raven squawked in surprise, flapping her wings as she was yanked off-balance. Orville took a step back, his eyes wide with fear as he saw the determination in the little buzzard's eyes. "You leave Baron alone!" Harmony shouted, her voice strong and clear despite her trembling.
Baron clutched the sack tightly, his heart pounding in his chest. He didn't dare look at the toy horse inside, afraid of what he might find. Instead, he focused on the bullies in front of him, ready to do whatever it took to protect Harmony and get her gift back to her.
"You think you're so clever, don't you, Buzzard?" Edmund spat, his eyes narrowing. "But you're just a scavenger, living off the scraps we leave behind." His words stung, but Baron didn't flinch. Not anymore. For the first time, he realized that Edmund wasn't just a bully; he was the enemy of everything he held dear. The friendship, the peace, and the unity that High Wind Gulch had worked so hard to build. He may only be six years old who still had more to learn, but Edmund's attitude was telling him that he was someone he never wanted to be.
"Let's go," Baron murmured to Harmony, his voice shaking slightly. "We've got what we came for."
But Edmund was not so easily deterred. He stepped closer, his sharp beak pointed at Baron after lunging out at him and holding his arms down at the ground. "You think you're better than us because you can read?" He sneered. "You ain't nothin' but a buzzard, no matter how many books you get from that two-faced coyote."
Baron looked up at him, his heart racing. "I don't know any coyote," he protested, trying to keep the tremor out of his voice. "What are you talkin' about?"
Edmund's grip tightened. "Don't play dumb with me," he said, his breath hot and sour. "You've been takin' lessons from that sneaky Sly, ain't ya?"
Baron's eyes went wide with shock. "Sly? No, I ain't never talked to him!" But even as he said it, he knew it was too late. The damage had been done. The whispers had turned into accusations, and now they were coming to a head. He was only four years old at the time and barely remembered much of it.
Harmony stepped in front of Baron; the stick held firmly in her hand. "You leave him alone, Edmund!" She warned, her voice shaking slightly. "You don't know nothin' 'bout him or his family!" She wasn't afraid to stand up against a nine-year-old who was taller.
Edmund's smirk grew wider. "Oh, I know plenty," he said, his voice full of spite. "Like how his pa is a worthless scavenger who stole from my family."
Baron's feathers ruffled with anger, but he held his ground. "My pa never stole from anyone!" He retorted, pushing against Edmund's grip. "He's a hard worker, and he loves us! Maybe it's your pa who's the thief around here!"
The accusation hung in the air like a storm cloud, and Edmund's smirk vanished. For a moment, the two young avians stared at each other, the tension palpable. Then, with a roar of fury, Edmund had used both his hands to seize Baron by his shirt lapels, lifting him halfway off the ground.
"You take that back, you filthy buzzard!" He snarled, his eyes burning with anger. "My pa is a hero!"
Baron felt a surge of courage, fueled by the sting of Edmund's words. He knew Avery was no thief, and he wasn't going to let anyone speak ill of him. "Hero?" He spat. "Your pa is a cheat and a liar!" The words tumbled out before he could stop them, and he saw the shock on Edmund's face. "Just like the sheriff said. It's no wonder he got kicked outta town for tryin' to take my family ranch!"
The gang looked at each other, confusion and anger mingling in their expressions. "You little..." Edmund started, but before he could finish, Harmony swung the stick, smacking it against the ground with a loud crack.
"Let him go, Edmund!" She demanded, her voice echoing across the lake.
But the sudden sandstorm had other plans. It picked up speed, whipping through the alleyways, sending dust and sand into the air, obscuring their vision. Baron took advantage of the chaos, wriggling free from Edmund's grasp and bolting towards the sack. Harmony's eyes widened, her heart racing as she saw the stolen gift being blown away by the wind. "Baron, grab it!" She screamed over the roar of the storm.
Baron didn't need to be told twice. He dashed after the sack, his legs pumping, his eyes fixed on the prize. The sand stung his eyes, but he didn't let it slow him down. Harmony took off after him, her skirts fluttering around her legs. The wind was against them, pushing them back with every step they took forward. The bullies had scattered, shielding their eyes from the flying debris.
They reached the sack just as it was about to be swept into the lake. Baron dove for it, his wings outstretched and snatched it from the air. Harmony slammed into him, and they both tumbled to the ground, coughing and spitting out sand. When they looked up, the storm had created a wall of dust between them and the bullies.
"We've got to get out of here," Harmony shouted over the wind. "Now's our chance!"
Baron nodded, clutching the sack tightly to his chest. They took off running, their footsteps pounding on the hard-packed earth as the storm grew stronger. The dust stung their eyes, but they didn't stop. They had to get back to the safety of the ranch before Edmund and his gang caught up with them.
As they neared the edge of the storm, they heard a shrill whistle pierce the air. "Retreat!" Edmund's voice called out, echoing over the wind. "We'll get 'em next time!" The gang of bullies took off into the swirling sand, disappearing from view. Baron and Harmony didn't wait around to see if they would come back. They sprinted the last few feet to the relative calm beyond the storm's reach, gasping for air.
"That was close," Baron panted, brushing the dust from his eyes. Harmony nodded, her chest heaving with exertion.
"Too close," she agreed. They looked at each other, and a strange bond grew between them. They had faced danger together, and come out the other side, stronger for it. They pushed themselves to their feet, adrenaline coursing through their veins. "We have to get back to town," Harmony said urgently. "Ma and Pa are gonna worry."
Baron nodded, his eyes still on the whirlwind of dust and sand that had once been their tormentors. "But what if they come after us?" He whispered, his heart racing.
"We'll just have to be faster," Harmony said, her voice filled with the same determination that had been in her eyes moments ago. They took off running, their wings beating against the wind as they headed back towards High Wind Gulch. The town was still a speck in the distance, but the sound of a familiar voice grew louder with each step they took.
"Harmony! Baron!" It was Clarence, the town sheriff and Harmony's father, calling out to them through the dust. The two children's hearts swelled with relief as they heard his strong, steady call. They pushed themselves harder, their legs and wings pumping in unison.
"Pa, Pa!" Harmony screamed back, her voice carrying on the wind. "We're over here!"
They could see Clarence now, his silhouette growing clearer as they approached. He was riding a large, majestic horse, his eyes squinted against the dust. As soon as he spotted them, he urged the animal into a gallop, closing the distance between them. The wind tugged at their clothes and feathers, but they didn't slow down. They had to get back to safety.
"Harmony, Baron!" Clarence shouted as he reined in his horse. "What in tarnation happened to you two?" His eyes searched their dust-covered forms, looking for injuries. Harmony could feel the warmth of his concern even through the chaos of the moment.
"Edmund Nosedive and his gang took my gift and said bad things about Pa," Baron managed to get out between gasps for air. His eyes were filled with anger and fear. He hoped that his parents were alright, not caring if he and Harmony would get called out for running off on their own without waiting for Clarence to return. His mind was on survival.
"They're the ones who started the stampede!" Harmony yelled over the howling wind, her eyes flashing with indignation. "They wanted to get rid of the vultures and buzzards!" Whether or not she knew that was true, it would definitely sound like them starting it, even if she couldn't prove it.
Clarence's expression darkened, his eyes searching the horizon as if he could spot the culprits from here. "We'll deal with 'em," he said firmly. "But first, we gotta get you two home safe."
They climbed onto Clarence's horse, Harmony in front and Baron clinging tightly to her back. The wind was still raging, but the horse was fast and sure-footed, eating up the distance to High Wind Gulch. Baron could feel the throb of its powerful muscles beneath him, and he took comfort in the solid warmth of Harmony's body in front of him. By the time that the dust was clearing, he could see that Clarence had been riding on Thunder.
They galloped through the storm, their eyes fixed on the distant lights of the town. Harmony's grip tightened around Clarence's waist as the winds grew stronger, but she didn't let fear show on her face. She knew her pa would get them through this, just as he had taught her to face every challenge with courage.
As they approached the outskirts of High Wind Gulch, the sandstorm began to die down, revealing a worried Ruby HawkTail pacing outside their ranch. Her eyes searched the horizon, and when she spotted Clarence and the children, she let out a cry of relief. Harmony slid off of Thunder, her legs wobbly from the adrenaline rush.
"Ma, I'm sorry," she said, her voice trembling. "I never meant to run away."
Ruby looked at her daughter, her eyes filled with a mix of relief and disappointment. "Y'all know the rules, Harmony," she said sternly. "Ya can't be wanderin' off without givin' folks a head's up, 'specially in a sandstorm."
Harmony looked down at her boots, feeling the weight of her mother's words. "I know, Ma," she mumbled. "I just... I just needed to get out. And when I heard about Baron's birthday..."
Ruby's expression softened. She knew her daughter's spirit craved adventure, but the worry she felt was a constant. "I'm sorry, baby," she said, her voice gentle. "But you can't just go runnin' off like that. You scared us all to pieces. Even Baron's parents have been worried for him when he did not come home too soon."
Baron nodded, still clutching the sack tightly. "Ma," he said quietly, "Harmony helped me get my things back from Edmund and his gang." He found that his parents had been hiding and taking cover inside the bakery shop where they had planned to pick up his birthday cake.
The door was barricaded with crates of flour and sugar, and the sweet scent of freshly baked bread filled the air. Becky's eyes were red from crying, and Avery looked furious. When they saw their son, their expressions softened into relief. Becky rushed over, wrapping her wings around him. "Baron, oh my dear," she soothed, her voice shaking. "Are you okay?"
Baron nodded, his heart racing from the excitement of the chase and the fear of what could have been. "I'm okay, Ma," he assured her, his voice muffled by her feathers. "Harmony helped me."
Ruby's gaze turned sharp. "What happened?" She demanded, her eyes flashing to Clarence for an explanation.
Clarence dismounted; his expression grim. "They've been bullied again," he said, his voice tight with anger. "This time, they took it into their own hands to get the stolen items back."
Becky and Avery looked at their son, their eyes filled with pride and fear. They knew the risks of the world outside their home, but they also knew that Baron had the heart of a fighter for a boy his age. "Why did you not wait for Clarence?" Becky asked, her voice trembling slightly.
"We couldn't," Harmony spoke up, her voice still strong despite her earlier ordeal. "We heard the stampede, and we knew Pa was busy. We had to do something."
"We went to the sheriff's office first," Baron added, his voice small. "But it was empty." He held up the sack, the toy horse peeking out. "They had Harmony's gift. We couldn't just let them have it."
Ruby looked at her husband, her feathers ruffling in the cooling breeze. "What do we do now, Clarence?" She asked, her voice laced with concern. "This has gone too far."
Clarence nodded, his jaw set. "We'll deal with it," he promised, his eyes flicking to the children. "But first, let's get 'em cleaned up and fed." He led the way into the bakery, the warm glow of the lamps inside offering a stark contrast to the chaos outside. The townsfolk had gathered, sharing worried glances and hushed whispers after finding each other again to see that nobody else was hurt.
Baron and Harmony were whisked away to the back of the shop, where a tub of water had been drawn for them to wash off the grime from the storm. Becky fussed over Baron, gently scrubbing the sand from his feathers and checking him for any injuries. Avery hovered nearby; his usual jovial demeanor replaced by a stern look that said he was proud of his son but knew they needed to talk about the dangers of taking matters into their own hands.
Meanwhile, Ruby had her arms around Harmony, her eyes searching the little hawk's face. "Reckon y'er a bold one, ain't ya?" She said, her voice filled with a mix of admiration and fear. "But your pa and me had a bargain, and ya know what happens when we strike a deal..."
"I know, Ma," Harmony said, her voice solemn. "But I had to help Baron. They were saying such mean things about him and his pa..."
Ruby sighed, her grip tightening around her daughter. "I know, honey," she said, her voice gentle. "But that don't mean you gotta go chasin' after trouble."
"But Ma," Harmony protested, her eyes wide. "They had Baron's birthday gifts! And the one he bought for me."
"It's true," Baron added in. "I bought her a present and wanted to go see Harmony. But then that big bully took it from me." He could feel Becky scrubbing his back.
Avery stepped forward; his eyes serious. "You know, son, we talked 'bout the risks out there. I'm proud of ya for standin' up for yerself. And for Harmony." He nodded towards the hawk girl. "But remember, it's always better to wait for help when things get hairy."
Baron nodded solemnly, his eyes never leaving his father's. "Yes, Pa," he murmured.
The tension in the room eased slightly as Ruby sighed. "Clarence, maybe we should talk to the Nosedives," she suggested. "This can't go on."
Clarence nodded in agreement. "First things first," he said firmly. "Let's get these two cleaned up and fed. It's still Baron's birthday, and we ain't gonna let a little sandstorm and some bullies ruin it."
The group moved into the cozy warmth of the bakery, the smell of fresh bread and sweet pastries filling the air. Harmony's eyes lit up at the sight of the treats laid out on the counter, but she knew better than to ask for any. Her pa had a way of making her feel like a hero one minute and a scolded child the next. Both he and Ruby had been teaching her when and when it was not ok to just take something that she saw unless by someone's permission to say YES or NO. And as far as she and Baron knew, not everything was free across Moo Mesa.
Baron felt his stomach rumble at the smell of the sweet apple pie cooling on the windowsill. Becky must have noticed, for she gave him a gentle nudge towards the counter. "Why don't you grab a piece, son?" She said with a small smile. "You've earned it." Even Mrs. Hedgehog told him it was ok.
Harmony's eyes widened at the gesture, but she knew better than to say anything. The friendship between her and Baron had always been a point of contention with her parents, especially her mother. "Ma, can I have one too?" She asked, her voice hopeful. She hoped it was ok, despite that she and her friend had a lesson to learn.
Ruby looked at Becky, who nodded, a knowing smile playing on her beak. "Certainly, dear," Ruby said, her eyes twinkling. "You've both had quite the adventure."
As the children devoured their apple pies, the adults shared concerned glances. The Nosedive family had been a thorn in their side for too long, and now it was up to them to ensure that the town's children didn't have to live in fear of their prejudices. The banishment of Edward had been a step in the right direction, but his wife Edna remained, and with her, the possibility of her poisonous beliefs spreading.
Clarence broke the silence, his voice firm. "We need to keep an eye on Edna," he said, his eyes scanning the room. "I don't trust that she's just gonna sit quiet after what happened to her husband."
Avery nodded, his feathers ruffling slightly. "Ya got that right," he agreed. "Can't be too careful with the likes of her."
Becky looked thoughtful. "Maybe we should pay her a visit," she suggested. "See if she's up to anything."
Avery frowned. "I reckon that ain't the best idea there," he said. "We've had our fair share of trouble with those two."
"But Pa," Harmony protested, her eyes wide with excitement. "If we don't do anything, who knows what she'll do next?" As far as the little hawk girl knew, Edna was like a dark witch of the woods waiting to lure her victims into her clutches.
Clarence took a deep breath, his hand resting on the butt of his gun. "I reckon we should tread lightly," he said, his eyes meeting Becky's. "Edna's always been one to hold a grudge."
Harmony and Baron exchanged glances, their imaginations running wild with thoughts of Edna as a witch, cackling as she conjured up sandstorms and sent her son and his gang to do her bidding. They had heard the whispers from other kids in town, tall tales of her dark powers and the curse she had placed on anyone who dared to oppose her family. Despite their fear, they felt a thrill of excitement at the thought of facing her together.
But their parents' expressions were serious. "Now hold on," Clarence said, his hand on Harmony's shoulder. "Edna's got her own troubles to deal with, and we don't need to go stirring up more."
Baron nodded; his eyes still wide with the thrill of the adventure. "But what if she comes for us?" He whispered; his voice barely audible over the low murmur of the townsfolk.
Ruby's eyes softened, and she bent down to look at her daughter and Baron. "Now, you two," she said firmly. "We ain't gonna let Mrs. Nosedive ruin your birthday, Baron, or your friendship. And Harmony's birthday is comin' up in two weeks. We've got enough to celebrate without worryin' 'bout what that old hag's up to."
Becky nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with determination. "We'll keep our heads high and show 'em we ain't scared," she said, her voice steady. "And when the time's right, we'll deal with Edna."
The adults decided to focus on the positive, pushing thoughts of Edna Nosedive and her schemes aside for the time being. The townsfolk had gathered around, their whispers turning into cheers and well-wishes for Baron. Harmony looked at her pa, her heart swelling with pride. She knew he was right; they couldn't let fear rule their lives, especially not on a day that was supposed to be filled with joy.
AN: Another chapter updated. They say that the best gifts in the world are not what you hold in your hand, but in your heart. And even if Baron did not get too much for his birthday, they best present he could ever get is being reunited with Harmony, spending the day with her and both their families.