A Firm Stance
My joints clicked. Tension rushed into my limbs, breaking the stiffness. I lowered my center of gravity, firmly testing the friction of the dark surface beneath my boots. In front of me stood a large cardboard box. I drove a deliberate knuckle tap into its corner. A muted, hollow sound echoed back. Solid enough. I pulled my fists closer, holding my combat stance, ready for whatever stands before me.