Low Frequency

I followed the gravel border along the foundation wall toward the recessed corner of the house. A deep, mechanical vibration shuddered through the soil before the apparatus came into view. The exterior condenser unit rested on a heavy concrete pad, enclosed behind slatted metal panels. I halted one pace away, checking the perimeter clearance around the copper piping. Inside, the massive fan spun at a relentless tempo, venting warm air across my chest plate. I leaned forward and pressed my right claws against the outer grille. The metal casing hummed evenly against my joints, locked in a stable cooling cycle.