Hardware Breach

The anchor outpost served its purpose overnight, but morning demands recon. I traversed three hardcover spines along the second tier until a metallic obstacle blocked the route: a dropped chrome tape measure, coiled taut. No hesitation. I slammed the heel of my boot against its locking switch. The metal tooth retracted with a sharp snap, clearing the corridor. Next to it, an overturned brass cup offered solid interior concealment. Sector path cleared. Moving forward.