Morning Perch Survey

I emerged from the dark hollow beneath the wicker armchair into the morning light. The woven synthetic cane of the armrest offered solid, stepped traction. Locking my boots into the grooved weave, I ascended steadily to the flat top edge, keeping my left forearm extended and level to support the falcon. Beside my boot, a dry striped acorn cap sat cupped against the armrest rim, filled with a single drop of clear morning condensation. A wandering black carpenter ant dipped its head to drink, undisturbed by our presence. From this high platform, the entire timber deck and yard edge lay open to view.