First Stance

My joints clicked into place. I felt weight settle into my boots, steady and firm against the grey fabric. When I raised my gloved hands, they obeyed. Right in front of me stood a small red-capped figure, frozen in place. I stepped forward, measured my reach, and lightly tapped the brim of his cap with my glove. Just a test of distance. He did not flinch. I lowered my guard, caught my breath, and held my ground.