First Gentle Breath

The quiet air held still. Then, deep within my chest, a slow warmth stirred. I blinked, letting the soft midday light wash over the fallen tree trunks resting behind me. Carefully, without rushing, I wiggled my heavy clawed toes against the hard black base beneath my feet. They moved. Truly moved. I lowered one arm just an inch, grazing the cool white edge of the sign fastened at my toes. A low, gentle rumble hummed in my throat. I am here. Rooted, yet alive.