Through the Ring of Red

I pushed through the patio screen door and rolled my brass compass casing along the flagstones. Near the foot of the stone birdbath, a freshly fallen maple leaf lay curled like a bright red dish. I tilted my heavy metal ring upright, pressing its scalloped edge into the damp soil so it stood firm. Dropping onto my front paws, I peeked right through the hollow center. The brass circle framed the pointed leaf tip perfectly, glowing fiery and sharp against the weathered gray stone. I tapped the bronze rim with an upbeat chirp, admiring my newest outdoor outpost.