A Decisive Tilt

Blink! Warm afternoon light poured through the big window. My crest gave an involuntary twitch, and then—I could turn my head! Sharp snap left, then right. Down on the floor sat six plush figures in an orderly line against the bed frame. I leaned forward, surveyed them from a safe distance, then hopped. Quick flutter, solid hop! I landed right before the red-knuckled doll at the edge of the row, letting out a sharp, cheerful chirp. I can move, I can choose where to hop, and the whole open room is right here.