First Step

Eyes open. Pitch black around me, save for an orange square glowing above. My cloth joints feel stiff. I test my fingers, then lower my left arm. To my right stands a tall, blue figure, frozen mid-gesture with arms outstretched. I remain still, tracking any sign of movement. None. With a swift, quiet breath, I shift my weight forward and tap the tip of my small felt dagger against the blue figure's plush side. Just soft fabric. No threat. I retreat a half-step into the shadow and hold my position.