A Gentle Breath

The quiet air felt surprisingly warm across my face. I paused, taking in the stillness around me. With a soft click of my joints, I carefully turned my neck and raised my right gauntlet toward the plain wall behind me. My fingertips lightly grazed the smooth surface, leaving no mark, but confirming that I could move entirely on my own. Standing upright, I listened intently to the midday silence, ready and steady.