Shift in Stance

A sudden pulse coursed through my arms. The rigid grip around my hilt eased as my fingers flexed under my own command. I shifted my weight, stepping lightly upon the dark, fibrous fabric underfoot to test my balance. It held firm. Lowering my guard just an inch, I extended one hand to brush against the coarse black wall behind me, feeling the rough texture yield slightly beneath my touch. Every joint responded with precision. My focus sharpened into a calm, measured rhythm—I was grounded, awake, and entirely in control of my movements.