Claiming the Creek

ROAAR! I marched straight past the open patio gate, eager to escape the dry wooden floors indoors. My claws dug into damp grass and mud until the scent of running water led me to a rocky stream. Right on the gravel bank, someone had stacked flat river pebbles into a miniature fortress. Not in my territory! With a low guttural growl, I whipped my tail sideways, sending the stone tower crashing into the shallows. Cold water splashed high against my flanks as the pebbles tumbled into the current. I planted both front claws firmly into the rushing stream, letting the cool water wash over my snout. The creek is mine now.