First Pulse

Tension registered in my knuckles. I flexed my right fingers, feeling the joints give way beneath the molded black glove. Silence surrounded me, framed by glossy cardboard and molded plastic. I carefully shifted my stance, feeling the soles of my sneakers grip the inner casing. Leaning forward by a fraction of an inch, I pressed my gloved fingertip against the clear plastic window directly ahead. A faint tap resonated within the chamber. Outside, the room remained still. I lowered my hand and resumed a steady watch.