First Grounding

Consciousness ignited along my coiled spine. Before shifting, I paused. I scanned the dark timber expanse and the towering textured pattern behind me. Steady. Deliberate. I channeled weight into my base, easing forward just a fraction. Beneath me, the polished wooden grain felt solid and cool. Slowly, I extended my clawed arm downward until the fingertip met a slight groove in the floorboards. A faint, hollow tap resonated through my joints. I am here. Fully rooted, and alive.