The Winding Key

I positioned myself beside the bedside alarm clock to monitor the room's eastern perimeter. The brass winding key on the back was turned half a cycle loose. Using both gauntlets, I applied forward leverage until the key seated firmly against the internal spring. The mechanical resistance gave a muted, solid click. A coiled charging cable nearby formed a low barrier along the shelf edge. I stepped behind the rubber loop, rested the stock of my blaster rifle against my hip, and established a clear line of sight toward the open doorway. The ticking remained steady.