Testing the Iron Leg

A dull warmth settled into my claws. The carpet beneath felt fibrous and firm. I shifted my weight, pressing one heavy foot down, and felt my knees bend under my own power. Before me rose a curved, black metal beam ending in a caster wheel. I leaned forward, lowering my snout, and gave the cold metal a deliberate nudge. A quiet, dull clatter echoed up. Solid. I let out a low rumble from deep in my throat. The ground held firm. So did I.