A Measure of Steel

Stiffness gives way to pulse. I loosen my grip, feeling the balance shift along the glaive. My stance holds firm. To my left, a blue creature sits entirely still, clutch in hand. I step forward, testing the tension in my boots. The tip of my blade lowers, tapping the edge of the blue base beside me. A clean, resonant click. Solid. I am grounded, poised, and ready for whatever stage this is.