A Measure of Light

Morning sun cut across the sill, striking a crystal prism suspended by a wire. I mounted the painted ledge to observe the perimeter. Below, the garden stirred with quiet movement. When a stray draft set the crystal swinging, fractured violet and amber beams swept rapidly across my chest armor. I remained still, tracking the motion without haste. Extending a gauntleted knuckle, I arrested the prism's sway with a single, measured touch. The light stabilized into a steady, sharp arc against the pale wood. Order restored.