A Gentle First Stomp

The wooden surface felt smooth beneath my feet. I blinked, noticing the faint afternoon light. Carefully, I lifted my right foot, then set it down. A tiny tap echoed. I took one slow, polite step toward the dark box beside me and extended a claw to touch the glossy cardboard corner. It was cool and solid. I let out a soft, satisfied hum, standing firmly in place.