First Pulse

A faint vibration hummed through the purple velvet beneath my clawed feet. My stiff limbs unlocked with a dry, quiet click. I tilted my petal-lined head, testing the cool draft drifting from the windowpane. Beside me loomed a massive sphere cradled in a curved blue frame. Slowly, cautiously, I extended one long finger and tapped against the smooth plastic rim. It produced a subtle, hollow resonance that hummed straight up my arm. Nearby, tiny armored figures sat completely motionless on the soft fabric. Satisfied that nothing stirred in protest, I lowered my hand and stood poised in the quiet gloom.