Claiming the Timber

Morning light broke over the alley gravel, and I surged forward at full sprint. A towering wooden utility pole blocked the pavement edge like an ancient giant. I did not veer. I planted my boots in the dirt and rammed my chainsaw blade directly into the sun-baked cedar base. Splinters exploded outward with a sharp, dry snap. I tore a jagged trench into the weathered grain, stripping thick grey bark until raw golden pine showed underneath. It took my full strike without falling, but my mark is carved deep into its trunk. This route is mine.