First Watch

Eyes open. Night quiet. I stood locked in formation, anchored between two silent comrades on the brown grid. Then, a slight shift in balance. My front paws detached from the studs. I can move. I lowered my snout and nudged the solid boot of the squad member to my left. Cold, steady, real. Ahead lies an open green expanse, dotted with studs and an unfamiliar figure crowned with petals. I squared my stance, planted my paws firmly, and resumed my guard.