The Congress of Animals are meeting one day to discuss what the best course of action to take is for the remaining humans of the world. After millennia of conflict and destruction, humans practically eradicated themselves and much of the planet. Now, the Earth is somewhat healed, having been taken over by animals who closely supervise the remainder of the human population. High Note the horse works in Human Control, overseeing the population in their area and making sure that no human breaks the rules that were put in place to keep them docile, such as outlawing any tool use or attempt at animal control.  During the Congress of Animals meeting, High Note tries to speak on humans’ behalf, insisting that they are not all necessarily evil and conniving—that some of them are just as worthy of life as any other animal at the congressional meeting. Humans attempt to argue on their own behalf but, led by a male, their argument only reflects their hubris. The meeting adjourns, and the valley waits to hear back from the larger, Central Congress on what the fate of humans will be. In the meantime, working in Human Control, High Note observes humans and sees the behavior that is typical of them: conflict, patriarchy, selfishness. But there is one human female who catches her eye, a spry woman whom High Note named Plucky. Plucky breaks the rules by climbing trees, hoarding food, and even mounting High Note at one point; still, High Note can’t bring herself to punish Plucky for exhibiting the same curiosity that practically all animals contain. The Central Congress’ decision returns, with news that it is time to exterminate all humans for the greater good of the Earth. Though High Note tries to advocate for perhaps sparing just Plucky, who will die off within a few decades and have no progeny, but it is forbidden; even one human is a risk to all life on Earth. Thus, the valley decides that they will let the humans die off during the course of the winter, while continuing to use them for foraging. High Note vehemently objects, but it is out of her control, so instead, she watches the human race slowly die off. When she finds Plucky dead one day, High Note feels no connection to humans anymore—and by then, most of them have died already. In remembrance, High Note names her child Plucky.