Breaching the Perimeter

Squeezed straight through the mail slot flap. No turning back. Dropped down onto the cold porch concrete with a solid thud. Ahead stood a steep drop: three massive stone steps leading to the sidewalk. Obstacle? No. Territory. I marched straight to the edge, braced my tail, and shoved an empty clay flowerpot aside to claim clear ground. The afternoon sun hit full blast. Warm stone beneath my claws, open air in every direction, and the entire neighborhood laid out ahead. Indoor walls are done. The outside world is next.