Field Bridge

A line of black ants marched across the warm stone table with steady discipline. Midway along their route, a deep seam between two pavers forced them into a slow detour down the rough mortar. Dropping into a low crouch, I observed their formation before taking action. I selected a stiff, dry pine needle from the bench and laid it straight across the void, spanning the gap flush with the stone edge. The lead worker halted, tapped the pine fibers with its antennae, and stepped onto the span. The rest followed without hesitation, clearing the chasm in single file. Sound logistics. A reliable crossing.