The animals under the Tree of Meeting had been talking for a long while. The sun was now setting and they began to go back to their homes. All of them, however, agreed on one thing before they went back- that Hop must be rescued, and that a team of animals would be needed to do so.

Many said they would like to go, but were undecided. Hop and Ift were, of course, ready to go. Tomorrow, they would discuss on the best way to bring back Hoot. To rescue him.

The old deer (who was very wise, and knew a lot of things) agreed to lead them- to show them the quickest way to where the tall creatures lived. But he was not that interested in saving Hoot as the other animals were. “I’m too old for this sort of thing.” He muttered, shaking his head.

It was now late at night, and Hop was out in the fields, staring into the dark sky, at the little bright dots that twinkled now and then. Hop wondered why.

He also wondered how they were to rescue Hoot, their best friend. He was like a father to them. Hop thought about the dangers they would face. He was- most of all- afraid some might get hurt. But one thing he didn’t think about (or maybe, perhaps, didn’t want to) was whether they would succeed…or fail.

***

Ift perched on the tree, gazing at the ground. It was very early in the morning. There was mist in the air, and there was only a little light as the sun had not fully come out yet. The leaves and grass were moist with dew, and Ift waited. She waited patiently…and then!

She swooped down and grabbed (with her little beak) a long and slimy earth worm. That would be her breakfast. Ift was satisfied.

***

“Please don’t hurt me!” Ibbit cried out in fear.

“Oh keep your mouth shut tiny frog. Now tell me…what are they planning to do?”

“Please don’t hurt me!” Ibbit repeated. He was swimming around franticly in the pond. He popped underwater. But then after awhile, he came out.

The black raven was still there, waiting for him. “Well?” it asked Ibbit.

“They’re going to rescue him!” Ibbit shrieked, and popped back underwater.

“Wonderful.” The black raven said, and smiled.