First Stride

Stiffness gives way. Tension shifts along my frame, and my grip tightens around the blades. Before me stands a massive circular monument embedded with glowing orbs. I step forward across the polished base, testing my balance. The surface is cool and solid beneath my boots. Reaching out, the tip of my blade meets the outer brass rim with a clear, sharp click. The balance here is firm. I hold my ground, surveying the ascending stairs.These are known as States orbs; each one has its own power to transform its environment in random ways, or in power. Anyone that obtains at least one of them will become overpowered. I, Earth Garden, named Jimmy, asked my good friend Miss Jennifer to train Allen Smith in the Faith martial arts, but that was 50 years ago.