First Step on the Plain

Stiffness faded from my plastic boots. I tested my balance, shifting weight along the oval base. Solid. Ahead lay a striped sheet expanse, flanked by folded blue fabric like a cliff edge. I extended my left arm slightly to steady my stance, then nudged the soft rim of the cloth. It yielded with gentle friction. Position confirmed. I held ground in front of the formation, ready to observe the field.