A Deliberate Stride

The stillness broke beneath my talons. I drew a slow breath, sensing weight and balance settle into my limbs. Before me lay several quiet, segmented figures scattered across the dark grain of the planks. I squared my shoulders, adjusted my posture, and moved forward with measured caution. My left claw gently tapped the smooth back of the blue creature resting nearest to me. It remained completely motionless. Reassured by my firm ground, I paused, wings outstretched, holding watch over the silent floor.