Willow called out, “Hello, clever collector!” The magpie tossed his head and laughed, “I found this first! It’s staying with me.” He flashed the marble in the sunlight for all to see.

Squiggle whispered, “He adores music!” Willow nodded. She tapped a gentle beat: tap-tap…tap-tap. The worms drummed with their tails, ladybugs clicked their shells, and the leaves rustled along. A magical song filled the air.

The magpie’s feathers shimmered. Slowly, he glided down, swaying to the music. “That’s the calmest sound I’ve ever heard,” he croaked softly. “Could I play too?”

Willow grinned. “Music is best when everyone joins.” The magpie hopped over and set the marble in her hand. Instantly, the sunlight poured out, washing the garden in gold.