Day six of the Solstice.
The blizzard had finally broken, leaving the world covered in a blanket of pristine, sparkling white.
It was the perfect day for a field trip.
Grand Duke Bastion had sent a message at dawn: "The sky is clear. The forest is awake. Bring the cubs. It is time to hunt the Stars."
Primrose wasn't entirely sure what "hunting stars" meant, but knowing the West Wing, it probably involved high-level magic and a risk of frostbite.
The caravan of carriages arrived at the Obsidian Estate. The gates opened, revealing a winter wonderland. The vast fields were untouched sheets of snow, and the dark pine forest beyond looked like a scene from a holiday card.
Waiting by the entrance, bundled in a thick coat of black fur and gold trim, was Grand Duke Bastion. Beside him, bouncing on her toes, was Lady Ellia.
The carriage doors opened.
"Release the hounds!" Jax yelled.
"And the cats! And the fish!" Finn added.
The Daycare Delegation poured out.
