A Heavy Footfall

Stillness. Then, weight. My claws pressed down, gripping the mottled cover beneath me. I inhaled, tasting dry air and warm lamp glow. Before me stood four small, square figures, unmoving. Deliberately, I shifted my frame forward. My tail settled firmly behind me. I let out a deep, resonant rumble deep in my throat, feeling the wooden surface vibrate in answer. I did not advance further. I held my ground, watching them from above.