Scaling the Steps

I planted my paws at the base of the staircase, deciding to test my stride against the tall oak risers. Coiling my hind legs, I surged upward. My front paws struck the lip of the first step with a solid clatter, claws finding instant traction against the finished wood. Without pausing, I pushed off again, driving through three rapid, rhythmic bounds until I crested the fifth tread. Halting to catch my breath on the broad plank, I turned to look down the steep slope I had conquered, my limbs buzzing with sudden energy.