A Perch by the Brass Tube

My webbed feet patted back indoors as the evening shadows settled across the rug. Looking way up, I flapped my stubby wings and scrambled from the armchair armrest all the way onto the topmost corner shelf to find a secure night roost. Standing propped between two heavy books was a long, polished brass kaleidoscope. Chirp! Tilting my head with an inquisitive peep, I waddled close and nudged the heavy rotating collar at the end with my beak. Rattle-clink! The tiny glass crystals inside shifted with a crisp, musical chime right beside my ear! Squeak! Flapping my wings in sudden surprise, I skittered back half a step, ducking tight into the shadowy crease between the leather book spines. Seeing the heavy brass tube resting quietly, I puffed out my chest and settled into the warm nook above the dark room.