A Command from Above

A proper domain demands observation from an elevated summit. I negotiated the vertical climb up the dark oak bookshelf, ascending shelf by shelf until I reached the carved crown. Beside me stood a heavy brass carriage clock, ticking with measured, mechanical precision. Resting my hand against its cool metallic pillar, I paused to study the sprawling expanse of the room below. From this height, every contour of the floorboards and cushions lies completely exposed to my scrutiny.