Later that night, the moon hung high in the sky, casting a gentle glow through the small open window of Shadow's room. The soft rustle of leaves outside created a peaceful backdrop as he sat on the ground, using a stick to draw in the dirt. He sketched a rough plan, tracing circles and arrows with careful precision, his brow furrowed in concentration.
As he worked, the door creaked open, and in sneaked Rooroo, followed closely by the three little chicks, their feathers ruffled and excitement palpable. Shadow looked up, his ears perked in surprise. "How do you all sneak out of the coop?" he asked, a playful glint in his eyes.
Rooroo puffed out his chest, strutting forward like a tiny, feathery general. "Oh, it's simple! The coop isn't really protecting us; we just choose to stay because we love Sushi. Besides, who needs a coop when you've got friends like us?" His tone was lighthearted, a mischievous spark dancing in his eye.
Shadow chuckled, shaking his head as he gestured for them to come closer. "Well, I'm glad you're here. I've been working on something important."
Lone entered just then, her long fur on her neck falling softly around her shoulders, catching the light in a way that made her look ethereal. She leaned against the doorframe,watching Shadow with curiosity. "What's all this?" she asked, glancing at the drawings in the dirt.
Shadow looked up, his eyes shining with determination. "I want Sushi to marry Oyster," he declared, his voice filled with conviction. "I've got a plan!"
Lone laughed, her laughter bright and genuine. "You really think that's going to happen? Oyster is too busy tending to his cows and making money. He barely even notices her!"
But Shadow wouldn't be deterred. He sat up straighter, his gaze unwavering. "That's exactly why we need to help him see her! Think about everything Sushi has been through—the loneliness, the heartache. She's done so much for us. She deserves happiness, and I want to do something special for her."
As he spoke, Lone's expression shifted from amusement to contemplation. The chicks nodded along, chirping in agreement. "Yeah! Sushi deserves someone who will love her back!" Hanna squeaked.
Lone's heart warmed at Shadow's words. "You're right," she said softly, the seriousness of the moment settling in. "Sushi has been there for us when no one else was. It would be nice if she could find that love she's always wanted."
Shadow looked around at his friends, his heart racing with excitement. "So, who's with me?" he asked, his voice full of hope.
"I am!" Rooroo said, puffing out his chest proudly. "We can make this happen!"
"Count us in!" the hens chimed in, their enthusiasm infectious.
Lone smiled, feeling a swell of pride for Shadow. "You know, it was my idea first," she teased, a playful glimmer in her eyes.
Shadow laughed, his spirits lifting further. "Well, I guess we make a pretty good team then! Together, we'll show Oyster just how special Sushi is."
Lone stepped forward, her smile broadening. "Okay, let 's figure out how to get this plan rolling. I can help with the decorations! We'll make it a surprise!"
As they gathered around Shadow's drawings, the air buzzed with excitement and determination. The night was alive with ideas, each one building on the last. Together, they began to brainstorm, their laughter echoing in the cozy room as they plotted out a way to bring joy into Sushi's life.
Shadow's heart swelled with hope. For the first time in a long while, he felt like he truly belonged, surrounded by friends who cared just as much about each other as he did.