Night Beacon

I withdrew from the open garden perimeter as darkness overtook the path, navigating toward the shelter of the brick patio step. Standing along the timber edge was a compact solar pathway lantern, its black housing rooted firmly in the soil. Stepping onto the brick curb, I placed my hand beneath the beveled lamp hood to inspect the standby circuit. Applying deliberate pressure against the sealed underside switch, I engaged the contact. A steady beam of cool white light washed immediately across the red pavers, casting our transit corridor into sharp relief. Anchoring my chassis against the lantern post, I established an illuminated watch post for the night.