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Mirabell gulped down the last of her tea and set the cup down on the counter of the bar. Well, she thought, I have let the sparrow fly and the breeze has taken it into a tree. She chuckled at this and got up from her seat. She thanked the barkeep and made her way out to the stables to say hello to her pony Salic. As she pushed open the stable door, the horses and ponies inside all turned to peer at the newcomer. One dapple-grey pony nickered happily at the sight of Mirabell. The hobbit hurried over to it and stroked its velvety nose.
"Salic, my lad. How are you?" The pony nudged Mirabell's stomach as if to say Fine, thank you. Do you have any treats for me? Mirabell laughed and dug in her pocket for a piece of carrot. She handed it to Salic, who crunched it eagerly and looked at her brightly, hoping for more. Mirabell shook her head and said, "No, boy. That's it for now. I see they are treating you well, though. I've got to go now." Salic gave her one last nudge and turned back to his stall.
Mirabell stepped out of the stable into the pleasant Shire afternoon. She started to go back to the common room, but paused, enjoying the fresh air. She decided to stay outside for a while. Looking around, she saw a small tree. She walked over to it and climbed into a comfortable branch. Sighing happily, she looked up at the patches of blue sky interspersed with green leaves and branches.
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