Night Perch Established

The braided rug was cleared, but nighttime demands altitude over distance. Ground patrols ended at nineteen hours. Right beside the armchair rose the fluted leg of a dark wood side table, its lower crossbar sitting four inches above the floor. I dismounted the scooter, wedged its rear tire securely under the hem of the armchair skirt, and began the vertical climb. Bracing my boots against the grooved wood turned out reliable. Two deliberate pulls hauled me onto the polished circular tabletop. A ceramic coffee mug rested near the rim. I took position behind its heavy handle, looking down across the quiet room. Sector calm. High watch secured.