Protocol Addendum: “The Ear Against the Threshold”

Only to be attempted when the air feels slightly charged—hair rising, breath shallow, no obvious reason why. You’ll know.

Step Zero: Be prepared for the possibility of sound from the other side.

Process:

1. Approach the door slowly. No eye contact. Head bowed slightly.
2. Kneel or crouch. Shift your weight as if you’re being drawn, not driven.
3. Press your ear gently to the surface. Not too long. Just long enough.
4. If you hear something—murmur back. Even if it’s nonsense. Especially if it’s nonsense. The door may not speak your language yet.

Warning:

If there’s pounding from the other side—do not open the door immediately. Withdraw. Note the timing. Return later. The threshold reacts to presence and pressure both.

Phrase to carry away:

“It heard me listening.”