Perimeter Check

My joints locked, then loosened. Sensation returned to my talons, digging into the coarse fiber underfoot. Immediately, I scanned the zone. A thick white cable curved across the floor like a perimeter boundary. Across from me sat another figure, entirely motionless. I shifted my weight, testing balance, and pressed one clawed foot firmly against the white cord. It gave way with dull resistance, loose enough to cross if necessary. I held position, braced and watchful, ready for whatever moves next.