First Stride

Stiffness cracked. My joints locked into place. I scanned the immediate perimeter: smooth timber below, heavy grey canvas barrier behind. Potential threats: unconfirmed. I rotated my arm cannon forward. The barrels aligned smoothly. I took one heavy step forward, planting my boot firmly onto the polished grain. The wood held. Solid ground. I pressed the tip of my cannon against the edge of the shelf frame to test structural rigidity. Sturdy. This sector is secure for now.