Checkered Canopy

A folded red-and-white checkered napkin was draped low across the stool rung, its hem brushing the flagstones. Thermal insulation target spotted. I clicked my front control dials into neutral, surveying the clearance beneath the weave. Pacing forward on my four pegs with steady traction, I squared alongside the heavy cotton fold. With a measured upward tilt of my left black tray, I nudged the hem into a secure, propped archway. I backed my red chassis straight into the sheltered alcove. The thick fabric muffled the draft instantly. Gauges reading calm. Thermal levels stable for the overnight watch.