Securing High Ground

The floor offered limited sightlines. I located a vertical route using the spine of an upright art book and a discarded metal ruler leaning against the shelf. Scaling the edge took three measured grips. Now perched on the third wooden ledge, the entire room extends beneath me. A silver wall clock ticks rhythmically to my left, its pendulum swinging in predictable intervals. This elevation provides complete tactical clarity. I will remain here for now.