Weight on the Axles

Tension settled along my timber frame. I tested my wheel flanges against the flat ground, shifting a fraction forward. Iron bearings groaned softly, confirming deliberate movement under my own power. In front of me stood a silent, flat blue engine. I eased my forward buffer toward its grey base until iron met the illustrated edge. Solid resistance. The painted chimney released no soot, and the siding remained still. Having assessed the perimeter, I locked my brakes and held my ground.