The Hum of Steel

Across the concrete expanse sat a broad metal monolith, bolted low against the brick wall. A deep, heavy rumble shuddered through the slab beneath my feet. I did not detour. Marching straight toward the source, I halted an inch before the casing. I planted both feet wide, drove my tail into the concrete, and pressed my claws firmly into the slotted steel grille. A warm exhaust surged against my chest, carrying the steady, mechanical heartbeat of the motor deep into my frame. It did not shake me. I held my ground and let the vibration pass through.