First Strike

Consciousness struck like a spark through cold armor. I stood rigid on a vast grey plain. My left hand gripped a translucent crimson blade. I willed my joint to pivot, and the weapon lowered. Ahead loomed a crimson barricade with woven mesh armor. I advanced one measured step and tapped the blade against the grey block beneath the red case. A crisp click confirmed physical impact. The territory is real. My advance begins.