Initial Perimeter Check

My joints unlocked with a faint click. I lowered my raised hand from my brow, testing tension and balance. The wooden floor beneath my boots felt solid and dry. Behind me, a long cardboard box rose like a flat wall. I turned slightly and pressed my red gauntlet against its printed corner. The surface was firm, cool, and showed no sign of movement. Stance steady. Line of sight clear. Perimeter holds.