First Step Forward

Optical sensors engaged. My joints locked, then responded to an internal signal. I tested the tail segments first, feeling the articulated balance shift behind me. Standing before me was a towering, stationary mech structure of red and blue plating. I calculated distance and threat potential. No movement detected from the frame. I took one deliberate step forward, claws gripping the flat ground, and tapped its heavy lower armor plate. Solid. Inanimate. I held my ground and resumed surveillance.