Airflow Patrol

A sudden low rumble shook the floorboard. I tracked the vibration directly to the metal vent cover by the corner. Dust kicked up as a rush of forced air surged upward. I planted my boots on the edge of the grate and braced, testing the resistance against my weight. It whistled through the slotted iron, steady and mechanical. Satisfied no loose debris was breaching the gap, I remained standing over the flow until the motor clicked off.