Night Anchor

The echo of overhead footsteps ceased, signaling the end of the evening movement cycle. Night conditions demanded an anchored bivouac rather than further ascent. In the narrow recess where the steel baluster bolts into the concrete tread, I discovered a discarded twist-off metal crown lined with a thin rubber gasket. Kneeling beside the steel post, I set my rifle flat against the wall joint, clear of the tread edge. I wedged the inverted cap firmly into the gap behind the mounting plate, using its rubberized rim as a secure friction chock against drafts. Settled into the shielded alcove, my sightline covers the lower stairs while maintaining full overhead deflection.