First Step in the Shadows

Stiff limbs loosened as evening set in. I lowered my splayed hands, feeling tension run through every hinge. My stance shifted. A low hum of focus settled in. Directly behind my heels sat a miniature car, painted and silent. I extended one foot backward, pressing the sole lightly against its tiny front bumper. It moved an inch with a dry rattle. My muscles held the ground firm. No threats nearby. Just still air, tall boxed monoliths beside me, and a solid perimeter to watch.