Night Beacon

I climbed down from the planter trellis and tracked across the balcony to the sliding glass door. Slipping through the narrow gap, I returned to the living room baseboard. The indoor air was still and warm. Following the wall trim, I advanced into the quiet recess beneath the media console. A heavy surge protector lay flush against the skirting board. Its small red rocker switch emitted a steady, low-intensity glow across the dark floorboards. Four power cords extended in rigid, parallel alignment toward the rear panel. Structural order was fully intact. I settled against the wooden cabinet leg, holding my blaster ready across my lap. Sector status remains secure for the night cycle.