First Strike

Both fists were frozen in the air. Total silence. Then—click! My left knee bent. My right foot popped up and stomped straight down against the smooth, dark wood. A sharp, hollow rhythm echoed across the flat surface. I can move! I lowered one arm, leaned forward, and tapped three quick beats on the grain beneath me. Solid. Smooth. Ready for action. I planted both feet firmly, hands pumped high, grinning right into the open room.