Optimal Descent

The polished oak banister offered an unbroken gradient toward the lower entryway. I evaluated the surface. Minimal friction. A direct bypass of twelve carpeted steps. Stepping onto the curved timber, I aligned my boot treads along the central ridge and shifted my center of gravity forward. The slide was instantaneous. Cool morning air caught the tattered edge of my cloak, streaming it flat behind my shoulders. Friction hummed cleanly through my leg actuators as speed peaked. At the terminal curve, I dropped my stance, absorbing the deceleration against the wooden newel post. Zero drift. Travel time reduced to under two seconds.