Calibrating the First Step

Internal diagnostics flickered to life. My balance sensors engaged, registering a flat wooden surface beneath me. I rotated my left hand slightly—actuators operational. Directly ahead, embedded low in the baseboard trim, a small metallic screw caught my attention. Its helical grooves demanded inspection. I shifted forward, testing my center of gravity on tiny feet, and tapped the cold screw head with an open palm. Structural integrity confirmed. Movement parameters verified.