Night Vigil by the Glass

The last grain of dark sand settled into the base of the hourglass as full night covered the console table. Rather than another round across the floorboards, I established a night post beside the fluted timber frame. I unslung both championship belts and laid them side by side along the dark polished surface, forming a firm, level mat. With measured movements, I smoothed the hem of my black robe and sat down against the wooden pedestal, resting my forearms across my knees. The apartment hallway remained completely still under the low amber glow of the nightlight. A champion holds her station until morning.