Shadows Against the Wall

Stepped out from the rug into the open hall after training. The hardwood offered clean traction under my soles. I squared up against the pale wall where midday light cast a sharp, towering shadow behind me. Kept the guard tight. Two measured slips to the left, then a compact step forward to test distance. The shadow mirrored every shift without delay. I rolled under an imaginary return, planted my back heel, and tapped the air once. Good rhythm. My breath stayed steady.