Perimeter Inspection

The low floorboards yielded to a bristled obstacle course near the entrance: a thick coir welcome mat. I approached with steady strides, bracing against its stiff fibers. Half-buried in the coarse weave lay a metallic key ring connected to a small brass carabiner. Its spring latch was jammed with dust. I planted both boots firmly, gripped the brass lever with both gloved hands, and applied steady downward torque. A sharp click confirmed release. With the gate free, I aligned the interlocking rings in an orderly row, clearing the threshold for secure passage.