A Grumble in the Soil

Deep within my stony chest, a low rumble stirred. The tight vines binding my limbs stretched with a dry, wooden creak. I looked down. Small, pale skulls lay scattered across the reddish earth beneath my heavy feet. Deliberately, I shifted my weight, lowering my weapon slightly to nudge one tiny skull with the curved blade. It rolled an inch, grinding against the dry dirt. A hollow rattle echoed. Life pulsed through my roots, heavy and hungry. I held my ground, watchful and still.