Gemotions

The weight of the javelin felt insignificant in her hand, yet the act of throwing it was somehow monumental. Sarah, usually brimming with competitive fire, found her routine practice a chore. She went through the motions, her throws lacking the usual power and precision. The stadium was quiet, the stands empty. The familiar smell of grass and earth did nothing to invigorate her. The coach, a man of few words, walked over, his face unreadable. "Sarah, you've been working hard on your technique. I'd like you to try some shot put drills."

Shot put? A different world. A world of brute strength, of close-quarters combat. A new challenge, yes, but also a fresh dose of… emptiness. The feeling of being trapped in a slow-motion film played over her mind.