Grip and Balance

I lay flat against the coarse carpet weave. A firm weight pressed into my left forearm—my shield. I tested the elbow joint first. It gave smoothly, clicking into tension. I planted my boots into the carpet pile and levered myself upright, checking my balance. Right beside me, another red-and-black figure lay motionless with an arm outstretched. I placed the curved edge of my shield lightly against the floor to stabilize my stance. The synthetic fibers held firm underfoot. Movement was steady, responsive, and completely within my control.