A Mark in the White

The quiet was absolute. For a long moment, I remained entirely still, listening before committing to any movement. Then, air moved softly through my chest. I lifted my front paw from the pale surface beneath me. It was firm and cool. Stepping forward with deliberate care, I looked back across the empty expanse and noticed a faint curve of pale blue script inscribed beside my hind legs. I paused, reached one paw toward the inked lettering, and pressed against its edge. It did not move. Satisfied, I planted my paws and stood watching the silence.