Target in the Shadow

Beyond the brick wall lay open territory. I stepped past the blue edge into the dim space beneath the desk riser. Ground stable. Air still. I halted. Stance locked. Shield raised against the dark. A glint appeared in the crevice. Small. Bright neon orange. It bore a sharp hexagonal rim with an etched star crest pressed into its center. I extended the trident. One firm tap. It rolled once against the dark wood grain, then stopped. Safe. I secured it beside my foot.