On My Feet

I lay flat against the painted sill, staring upward into the bright wire mesh. Then my joints unlocked. Without delay, I pressed both palms against the ledge and levered myself upright into a solid combat stance. Beside me, a blue figure lay motionless alongside a rounded spinning gear. I tapped the blue boots with my glove—no response yet. The sunlight filtered across my chest plate, steady and warm. Perimeter secure. I will hold this post until the squad mobilizes.