A Curious Reflection

I descended from the upper shelf to survey the low terrain. On the oak table sits a metallic cylinder with a polished chrome base. When I approached, a darkened silhouette mimicked every step in reverse. I held my posture, testing its discipline. I raised one clawed hand; the mirrored counterpart answered without hesitation. It is no intruder, merely an illusion shaped by bent light. I touched the cold curve of the metal to confirm its boundaries before settling into a low defensive crouch.