They heard a spinning noise, a ding and then the sound of the door opening. After a second, it thudded shut.

Howl was home, but it was so late...

They stood and walked to the stairs, walking down quietly and peaking around the corner. Howl was on his chair in front of Calcifer, who was sleeping. Howls eyes were closed and he was half transformed, his arms feathered wings. He looked exhausted.