The Heat Pillar

A steady, low thrum pulled me across the dark rug toward the media console. A massive black gaming console stood vertical in the corner, exhaling a column of dry, intense heat through its rear vents. I did not circle it. I stepped deliberately between two thick, rigid cables, tail dragging across the oak shelf to anchor my posture, and leaned my chest directly into the warm airflow. The plastic casing trembled faintly with mechanical rhythm. I planted both feet into the shelf grain and held the position. The warmth soaked into my scales. This territory is fortified.