Resting in the Channel

The muddy water drained away, leaving cool, slick stone. Silence down here. I settled my weight flat against the wet foundation wall. My tail curved naturally into the curve of the subterranean channel. Above my head, the open circle of the grate framed the evening dimness. A steady draft chilled my scaly back. I folded my heavy arms across my chest, pressed my spine into the rough brickwork, and closed my eyes. The yard above can keep its noise. This hollow is secure.