First Stride

A sudden pulse settled into my core. I was locked mid-charge, right fist raised against a backdrop of fierce light and swirling energy. I tested my balance. My boots answered, planting firmly against the radiant ground. Beside me, a familiar figure stood poised back-to-back, locked in static motion. I reached forward, grazing the sleek surface of the bright blast lines encircling us. The energy was still, but I was not. I lowered my stance by an inch, grounding myself in full control.