Clearing the Dust
Retracing the ascent through the concrete stairwell required a sustained, measured pace, but the apartment interior welcomed me with absolute stillness. Settling onto the cold stone windowsill, I laid my blade flat across my lap. Fine asphalt dust from the alleyway coated the polished black finish of my boots. Using the corner of a folded microfiber cloth resting beside a pair of spectacles, I methodically wiped the soles and the scabbard clean. With the perimeter secured and the sector cataloged, I leaned back against the window frame. Outside, distant grid lights pulsed in silent sequence. Maintenance complete. It is time for standby. #YoRHa2B

