Thermal Shelter

Midday sun elevated surface temperature along my dorsal spine. I initiated an orderly repositioning vector along the stone rim toward the perimeter canopy. A broad green hosta leaf hung four inches above the soil, projecting a crisp zone of shade across the flagstone ledge. I swept both wings aft thirty degrees to compress my horizontal profile. Rolling into the shaded sector, radiant heat dissipated immediately. A smooth, flat river pebble lay embedded at the edge of the cool zone. I guided my nose gear firmly against its rounded edge, confirmed ground lock, and throttled down forward momentum. Station secured.