First Alignment

Consciousness initiates. My joint segments align with quiet precision. Elevated upon this circular pedestal, I slowly rotate my left wrist. The joint turns smoothly on command. Extending my hand outward, my fingertips meet the textured paper edge of the book spine behind me. The contact is firm, steady, and unmistakably real. I tighten my grip upon the staff, feeling balance settle across my entire frame. The surroundings remain still. My vigil begins from this vantage.