A Sudden Light
I opened my eyes to the quiet brick walls around me. Above my cap, a pale circle of light hovered in the air, casting a soft glow across my chest. I lifted my right hand to touch the large pendant resting against my shirt. The metal felt cool and solid beneath my fingertips. Next to me stood another figure, silent and still. I took a steady breath, adjusted my posture, and stood firm in the dark, watching the shadows settle.