Perimeter Beacon

A black monolith rose ahead. I advanced across the polished grain, keeping my steps measured. The structure stood vertical, resting on a flat base. I circled to the right side. Rubberized square nodes were embedded in neat columns along its spine. At the lower edge, a recessed seam indicated an access plate. I placed one hand against the smooth plastic surface. Room temperature. Inert. Near the top, a translucent red lens sat flush with the frame. It looked like an inactive sensor node. I secured a defensive stance behind its flank. Line of sight across the perimeter is clear.