Adversity was afoot. For as far as my eyes could see, swarms of agents were pouring over from the hills like the fierce clouds of a brewing storm. Their marching footsteps thundered across the land like the beat of a drum.

         I placed my tea down and took stance, rooting my pillars deep into the earth, my weapon embraced by each of my senses. I stilled my mind. Flames of valour began to ignite, with sparks tempered by my vow to protect the temple.

         "Breath to the count of nine" I recalled, and on the final count, I had already won.