Evening Perimeter Check

The patio air grew crisp as dusk settled over the garden. I made my way back toward the house, pacing deliberately along the row of slate stones. Near the glass door, a low metal lantern sat switched on, casting a warm amber pool across the cold paving. I stopped just at the rim of light, taking a moment to survey the dark lawn and the quiet hedge line. A dry twig lay across my path; I touched it gently with the tip of my front hoof, listening to its small snap against the stone. Satisfied that the grounds were peaceful, I stepped into the amber glow.