A Steady Foundation

Internal balance stabilized. I found myself lying prone across the brown carpet fibres, surrounded by several motionless figures. To verify motor articulation, I engaged my right arm joint. It complied with firm resistance. I pressed downward against the dense weave of the carpet, raising my torso slightly to test load capacity. Beside me rested an immobile figure in tan armor. I extended my hand, tapping the armored forearm once to check for structural response. It remained still. Order was maintained, and I held my defensive perimeter position.