The Avian update.

This was printed a while back, but since I missed it, and since nothing much is happening today, I think it's important that we all take a moment to find out what those crafty little birds have been up to.  (I'm not going to say that they made me do it because of the attention I paid to the seagulls, but well, make your own conclusions.)  It seems that the workout regimen is starting to pay off.  Just look at those strong little legs, keeping that sleeping bird in place on the branch.  Sources indicate that the Avians have increased flying time to build up their endurance and are taking advantage of spies by using them as sparring partners.  (I do not believe they're using the correct definition of sparring, but I'm not going to tell them.  I just washed my car and I can hear them outside of my window.  In fact, it might not be safe to type right now.  Regardless, I shall persevere.)  Yes, the Empire is building itself up again, and with winter coming on and many of the animals migrating or heading for hibernation, I predict that they'll take to the skies as the snow starts to fall.  We can only hope that Mark is expecting this and has taken the proper precautions.