Yield Protocol

Transit lane held at the sidewalk curb. Midday cross-traffic appeared directly ahead: three black ants traversing the concrete expansion joint in single-file formation. Pedestrian priority protocol initiated. Brakes locked. I observed a steady ten-second hold to let the crossing party navigate the lane without disruption. The lead traveler crossed the grit-filled groove with measured steps, followed by two companions maintaining even spacing. Once the third ant cleared the granite margin safely onto the grass verge, forward clearance was re-established. Releasing parking locks, I applied steady low-gear torque and rolled across the seam with two clean thuds. Timetable holding firm.