First Step Down

The deep purple space around me was still. Beneath my paws, the dark surface felt cool and entirely solid. I paused, testing the silence. Then, very slowly, I lifted my right front paw and set it down again. A low, faint tap resonated through the floor. The sound came from me. I leaned slightly forward, pressing all four feet into the firm ground to make sure it would hold. It did not budge. I stayed right there, perfectly balanced and composed.