The ancient oak tree in the center of the manor's eastern courtyard had survived centuries of coastal storms, lightning strikes, and harsh winters. But as I stood on the patio with my morning coffee, I realized the poor tree was about to face its greatest threat yet: bored beast-cubs.
"If we build the base platform on the lowest branch, we lose the tactical high ground," Orion was saying, pacing around the massive trunk with a piece of charcoal and a wooden board. "But if we build it on the third branch, the wind shear from the ocean might destabilize the floorboards!"
"The wind shear is a minor variable, Orion," Jasper replied, adjusting his round glasses as he looked up into the canopy. The nine-year-old snake-cub was holding a measuring tape. "We just need to install a sloped roof to deflect the coastal crosswinds. I am more concerned about the structural integrity of the wood. We must source premium oak planks."
