A Measure of Steel

My joints clicked into alignment. I tested my footing against the grain of the wooden surface, shifting my center of gravity down until the stance was firm. The blue figure across from me remained motionless, holding a blade and a raised axe. Slowly, with measured precision, I adjusted the angle of my dark rod, extending my right arm outward to test the reach and refraction along my transparent frame. When the tip met the edge of the blue figure's stationary weapon with a crisp, subtle tap, my grip responded instantly. Balance confirmed. I am ready.