The Vertical Ascent

Three massive concrete steps cutting straight into the slope. Sheer vertical slabs towering over the sidewalk. An open challenge to my forward motion. I didn't look for a ramp. I squared up at the bottom riser, dropped my weight back, and launched. Front paws locked onto the gritty aggregate lip. Rough stone bit into my pads. I kicked my back legs hard, scrambling against the vertical gray wall, hauling my whole frame upward until my chest cleared the ledge. One down. Two to go. No break. I surged straight into the second tier, dragging myself over the cold cement edge. One final heave. Paws over the top landing. Summit claimed. Standing tall above the asphalt.