The summer air was hot on his skin, the concrete beneath like a baking stone. It was luxuriant. He lived for these days. Indeed, he lived because of days like this.

Without warning he was poked in the side, nearly knocked onto his back. He reared back in shock. He was shoved again, this time nearly lifted off the ground. Equal parts angry and scared, he faced his tormentor.

The beast was monstrously huge, a small tree gripped tightly in its meaty appendage. Appalled, he began to flee, his tormentor chasing after him.

With sudden force he was flung into the air, his body twisting as he landed in the deep grass. Desperate to escape, he sped through the grasses, his body weaving until he slid safely into the ground.

Hidden in his hole, the snake hissed defiantly, watching as the beast searched for him in vain, before finally leaving.