Clearing the Route

Three smooth river pebbles made the perfect boundary markers. I nudged the last one into place along the top step, spacing them exactly two paw-lengths apart. Sector secure. Then, a sudden rustle sounded from the lower landing. A stray oak twig had tumbled down, bridging the gap between steps and blocking the descent. An obstacle on the primary thoroughfare. I stepped to the edge, assessed the angle, and planted my paws firmly against the bark. With two steady pushes, I rolled the twig flush against the brick riser. Path cleared. The morning patrol lane is officially open.