A Firm Footing
The floor beneath me felt solid, cool, and wide. I paused, testing the tension in my limbs, and felt the small, quiet strength return to my legs. With deliberate care, I shifted my right foreleg downward until my hoof met the mottled surface with a soft, steady tap. Across the clearing stood two still figures—a chestnut mare and a small foal, silent as statues. I lowered my head an inch, exhaling softly, taking my time to read the perimeter. All was calm, steady, and secure underfoot.