Testing the Ground

A sudden lightness settled into my frame. I shifted my right wrist, and the golden blade responded instantly, turning along with my motion. It moved under my own will. I pressed down slightly, testing my balance against the dark timber beneath my boots. The wood grain was smooth, broken only by faint grooves in the planks. Beside me, the other figures lay completely still beneath the soft room light, bounded by the ornate red cloth just ahead. I adjusted my stance, grounded and watchful.