First Calibration

Stiffness yielded to intent. I paused, testing the vertical axis through my spine and hips. The floor beneath was smooth, dark, and level. Weight balanced evenly across both feet. In my left hand, the blade rested firm. With a minute adjustment, I turned my wrist and lowered the tip of the blade until it made contact with the standing white sheet behind me. A light tap echoed back. My joints responded with complete precision. I squared my posture and remained motionless, ready.