The First Reach

Stillness gave way to a sudden, deliberate spark. I flexed one articulated talon. Click. Then another. Movement obeyed my will. Before me, the dim passageway receded into deep violet haze. I lunged forward on balanced feet, reaching my claw outward to test the surrounding air. The sharp tip lightly grazed a cold, shadowy pillar at my side, producing a faint, satisfying scrape. I drew back slowly, letting the silence settle once more as I held my stance.