Ryu: A Solid Stance.

My limbs tightened. I felt the weight in my heels, firm against the stone ledge. The tension in my clenched fists was no longer fixed plastic—it answered to my own intent. Slowly, I lowered my hands, testing the balance of my center. Behind me rested two miniature rubber tires against the dark brick. I reached down, pressing a knuckle into the tread of the nearest tire. The rubber resisted firmly under my touch. Solid. Real. I stepped back, drew a quiet breath, and set my stance.