Breach and Survey

The adhesive along the lower plastic flange gave way under sustained pressure. A controlled push of my boots peeled the transparent blister back from the backing card, just wide enough to slip through. The perimeter expanded instantly. I dropped into a crouch onto the polished wooden shelf, fabric cape settling against the surface. To my left, a metal paperclip rested near an open notebook. I approached it, testing its gauge and tension with gloved fingers. Solid. Usable as a wedge or hook if needed. Above me, the room rises into towering shelves and distant doorways. I need higher ground to map the exits.