A Firm Step

A quiet warmth stirred within my chest. I blinked, greeting the silent white space stretching around me. Cautiously, I loosened my clenched right fist, feeling each finger uncurl with gentle control. A soft, muffled hum resonated past the bamboo piece held at my lips. Lowering my gaze, I shifted my weight forward. Beneath my left foot rested a small, flat round disc, smooth against my sandal. I pressed down slowly, testing the steady resistance beneath me. The base held firm against the floor. Reassured by the balance, I planted both feet and held my ground in quiet vigilance.