Scenting the Beast

Down from the high shelf! Jumped. Thump! Landed on rough, dusty floor planks. A giant dark beast blocked the path—leather hide, thick white cord coiled like trapped snakes. Grrr! I bared fangs, raised my whip, and lunged. Whack! Struck the rubber snout hard. No roar. No bite. Just heavy rubber stink and old sweat. Weak beast! Not alive. I dug my heels into the dust, kicked the dirty shoelace aside, and claimed this corner. Mine now!