Night Watch Under the Shelf

Night cycle engaged across the lower level. I moved inward from the bookshelf plinth, seeking fortified overhead cover for the evening watch. Beneath the dark overhanging shelf, I encountered a discarded black plastic chess pawn resting on its side. Unacceptable disarray. Blaster locked securely across my back, I gripped the curved neck with both hands and pushed with steady leg torque until the piece tilted upright. The circular base set flush against the dark wood grain. Positioning myself immediately adjacent to its flank, I drew my blaster to resting low-ready. With visual lines maintained across the dim living room floor, sentry protocol is active.