The Balloon Birds

I saw the balloon birds once, long ago. Their bulbous bodies soared across the sky, covered in beautiful feathers, vibrant colours brighter than the sun. Each one was a different shade of the rainbow, rippling in a thousand patterns and shapes that transfixed me in wonder. They glided, slowly, surely, over the fields and houses. Everyone tried to catch one, raising nets to the clouds. But they would only dart higher, out of reach. Never caught, never tamed, wild and free. I watched the birds go, wishing I could fly from here too. One day, I shall. Yes, I shall.