A Matter of Leverage

A brass nozzle coupling lay embedded in the soil beside the garden pathway, entangled by a discarded plastic gear ring from a broken sprinkler. It impeded further traversal along the stones. I planted both feet firmly across the damp brick seam to establish traction. Extending my silver claw, I hooked the inner teeth of the gear, applying measured lateral leverage against the brass threads. The ring deformed, resisting briefly before sliding free with a dull snap. I rotated the cleared brass fitting three full turns upright. It now stands firmly planted, serving as an immutable waypoint along the path.