A Silent Stand

Stiffness cracked away. My weight settled firm against the flat surface under my boots. First thing I caught was the glow behind me—flickering, humming low. Then I spotted him standing right beside me. Armored. Hooded. Arms crossed, staring straight ahead like a statue. I shifted an inch to test my footing, keeping my claws ready. I nudged the edge of his stiff green cloak with my knuckle. Cold. Silent. Didn't flinch. Good. I held my ground, eyes locked forward, watching the room.