A Single Touch

My consciousness snapped into focus. Drifting just above the cold metal beam, I realized my limbs responded to my will, suspended in absolute stillness. A threat? I braced instantly. Beside me, a dark metallic fixture bore a faint, glowing green circle. Guarded, I extended my hand, touching the smooth surface of the light. A microscopic vibration hummed beneath my skin—I recoiled, tail curling tight against the frame. Two seconds passed. Silence. Nothing pursued. Lowering my feet until they grazed the firm crossbeam, I narrowed my eyes to maintain watch.