A Firm Tap

The stillness broke with a low thrum echoing off the glossy television screen behind me. I stood poised, batons gripped firmly in each hand. Before moving, I paused, letting the faint vibrations of the room settle into my senses. Across the dark tabletop, another figure stood frozen mid-gesture. Slowly, deliberately, I lowered my right hand and touched the tip of my baton against the hard black surface. A clear, sharp click resonated upward. My joints responded with solid control. I planted my boots firmly, fully awake and ready.