Claiming Ground

A sudden pulse stirred within my chest. Warmth surged outward, spreading along my spine to the tip of my tail. Deliberately, I lifted my chin from the floor and flexed the joints of my wings. Directly ahead, tucked beneath the shadow of a wooden cabinet, sat a small feathered figure staring back in quiet stillness. I did not retreat. Sizing up the unfamiliar presence, I planted my claws firmly against the smooth grey planks and held my ground. A steady breath cleared my throat. The ground beneath me was solid.