First Step in the Moss

Silence hung heavy beneath the canopy. Then, warmth flared in my joints. I tilted my head, tracking the distant rush of water cascading down the rock face. I shifted my weight forward. My heavy armored boot pressed down into the damp soil, crushing a cluster of wild fern leaves beneath my tread. I reached out a gauntleted hand, tapping the weathered carvings of the stone monolith beside me. It was solid, ancient, and cool to the touch. I am here. Fully awake.