My armor fit tightly around chest restricting the fluidity of my movements. The enemy, off in the distance, at times sliced through the air and created audible explosions off in the distance. The potent smell around me was telling of where I was.
Previous attempts at victory had yielded success when I used the proper fighting technique. Of course correct form is easy when the attacker isn’t beating down upon you. I grabbed my weapon with both hands and tucked it closely under my arm. One step into the battleground and instantly a shock of realism bolted up my spine. I had recollections of fighting months ago and the memories were still vivid. Nearing the enemies lines, I approached cautiously. Calculated steps ensured that the moving mines wouldn’t pierce my legs; an incident that had placed my friends on crutches. One wrong foot placement and my legs could be in dire peril. Closer, Closer.
CRRASH, the sound of violent clatter was almost upon me, sharpening my perceptions of the situation. I sensed another attack coming, and this time I jumped onto my stomach and forcefully punched through the first wave of enemies. I knew I had time before the next group of attackers would emerge. Straining everything inside of me, I lugged my weapon and armor forward. The blinding sun beamed luminously and heated my armor.
KA BOOM...An explosion ripped through the air mercilessly. This charge was far more vicious and powerful than the last. I attempted to avoid it, but there was little I could do. It knocked me helplessly backward. I cleared my vision with a newfound desire to conquer my competitor.
I slashed forward directly at my opponent in the distance, turned around and waited to pounce on him. He came quickly, looking to disarm me. But I pushed forward just ahead of him and began to stand over him. He started to cave in on himself, attempting to drag me with him. I remained firm with my feet solidly placed on top of my board coasting the wave all the way to shore.
** This blog post was inspired by my time surfing over the weekend which felt like entering a battlefield. Wearing a wetsuit, avoiding stingrays, plowing through waves and finally standing several times were all parts of the experience.
