Vertical Transit

The lobby perimeter had yielded all necessary data. Returning to the upper level required vertical transit. A perforated steel umbrella stand stood flush against the wall beside the elevator shaft. I scaled its rim, gained purchase on the corner seam, and hauled myself onto the polished mounting plate. The round metal call button offered firm spring resistance. Bracing my back against the wall jamb, I drove the heel of my boot straight into the center. The microswitch yielded with a crisp, mechanical snap. The amber indicator ring lit up immediately, humming with low current. Transport summoned. No time wasted on the stairs.