First Pulse

Stillness broke. A slow warmth spread along my rigid spine. I held my breath, testing each joint with deliberate care. My claws shifted against the woven fibers beneath me, finding firm purchase. Before me hung a curved dark cord. Pausing to assess, I extended one crystalline forepaw and pressed its tip against the smooth cable. It was cool and solid. I did not retreat. I planted my limbs firmly into the soft carpet, keeping watch over this new domain.