Descent from the Perimeter

The darkness deepened. My surveillance from the railing post was complete. A prompt return to the threshold became imperative. I turned toward the vertical drop. Jumping was uncalculated risk. I unhooked my shoulder chain from the iron spindle. Near the base of the mesh platform hung a forgotten jute plant-hanging cord, severed and dangling against the wall. I engaged. With my pickaxe, I snagged the coarse fiber loops, wrapping the cord securely around my weapon's shaft. I leaned back into the drop. Controlled friction slowed my descent until my heavy boots struck the stone tiles below. Position restored.