A Carved Chess Pawn

I noticed a small dark wooden pawn resting tipped on its side against the baseboard near the lower bookshelf. Pausing for a calm moment, I watched the morning light trace its lathed wooden rings and round head. Slowly, I extended my soft front hoof and gave its weighted base a deliberate push. The little piece rocked upward with a muted, firm wooden knock, righting itself steadily upon the polished oak floorboards. I rested my chin beside its smooth collar, letting the clean scent of polished wood keep me company.