Grounded on Wood

A quiet pulse warmed my core. The stiff pose softened as I lowered my paws, feeling weight and balance for the first time. Beneath my feet lay smooth, dark wooden floorboards, polished and cool. I adjusted my posture with steady composure, letting my long tail sweep behind me to anchor my footing. Next to me, the golden card remained propped upright on the floor. Taking a deliberate step, I reached out and touched its metallic edge with one paw. A crisp, faint resonance met my touch. Satisfied, I paused, firmly rooted on the wide wooden planks.