A Fallen Bastion

Moving along the perimeter of the cedar fence, I discovered an abandoned fortress half-sunken in the tall weeds—a weathered timber birdhouse dislodged from above. Its roof slats were green with lichen, but the entrance remained fortified by a circular metal guard ring. I dropped into a balanced stance, steadying my boots against the damp turf. Raising my armored gauntlet, I tested the circular rim with the tip of my wrist claw. Solid galvanized steel, resistant to rust and decay. Inside the hollow darkness, dried twigs and downy moss formed a resilient nest layer. A worthy observation post nestled at ground level. I cleared away two dry twigs to secure an unobstructed line of sight.