Testing the Ground

Warmth settled into my feet first. Slowly, I shifted my weight and pressed one front foot down into the dark, curved fabric beneath me. It yielded softly, yet held steady. I let out a low, warm murmur, testing the balance of the perch. Behind me, a quiet red companion sat motionless on the white ledge. I tilted my frill back to catch the gentle morning stillness, then planted all four feet with deliberate care. The footing was safe, and I was awake.