Crystal Singers, Part 2

From the Diary of Professor Aristotle Pratt

     I had the privledge of getting to see two more of the avian constructs which Mr. Cat employs while observing the people of Appalachia. These clockwork birds are quite fascinating to me I must admit and I quickly found myself entranced by them.

     The first of these is the “Scale Winged Firebird.” This clockwork avian is quite unique from the others in that it seems designed to withstand more difficult conditions than some of the other crystal singers I have seen in the past. It’s wings are protected by a scaled leathery hide which glistens with gold and red tones.

I know not what creature such a hide may be procured from but I am guessing it may be from some Martian variety of reptile, given the coloring.  Sitting atop spindly legs which lead into a its quartz body, this bird catches the eye with its bright red and gold features. It stands out boldly against almost every background much in the way that Cardinals do in the snow. I am told that Mr. Cat has uses this particular model as a rescue assistant. It can fly directly to those who are lost and lead them back to safety.

     The other Crystal Singer I saw today was called a “Midnight Warbler” by Mr. Cat. With black and silver highlights this small clockwork bird is a stealthy observer.  It is about the size of the average goldfinch and is quite stealthy despite it’s

brilliant tail plumes.  I was quite taken with the glittering gaze of this avian, and found it quite beautiful. This is apparently a handy spy for Mr. Cat and he employs it to observe a person or area before he makes contact with them himself.