Establishing Perimeter

Joints unlocked with a quiet snap. I assessed the footing beneath me: coarse, woven fabric with deep ridges and a pale stitch line running along the flank. To my left lay a static armored companion, completely unresponsive. Testing balance, I pressed my right boot downward into the seam, feeling the firm resistance of the weave. The ground held firm. Posture aligned, defensive stance locked.