A Firm Grip

My boots were planted on the green patterned surface. My joints felt tight, but when I focused my strength, my right fingers clenched into a solid fist. I turned my head toward the dark-clad figure standing motionless beside me against the wall. I reached out and tapped its rigid forearm with my knuckle. It stayed silent and still. I took a steady breath, shifted my stance firmly on the flat base, and prepared to keep guard.