starter part II

A pile of dirty rags in a deserted alley lured him. The rags awaited him but before disappearing into the shadows a look around was essential. Peeking eyes were often connected to spilling mouths. An act such as this can be damaging if connected to him. He stood before the heap anticipating the sight of an element in all its magnificence. Reaching to his back pocket, his fingers fumbled around in the shallow hole. Finding the desired item he pulled it out and placed it in his opened hand. His heart began to increase in beats as he looked at the small box resting flat on his palm waiting for whatever he asked of it. The box was opened. Slender wooden sticks complete with round red heads welcomed him. With his breath held two fingers delicately took a hold of a stick. The head was run along the black strip on the side of the box. A tiny ball of red and orange flame swallowed up the head. With the initial spark, the smell of singed wood lingered in the chilly air. With one last look at the rags, his fingers let go. The stick spun to the top of the rag mountain and as it hit, the flames immediately rushed around and engulfed the mass feeding its hunger. He stood still, his eyes wide with fascination, watching the flames dance around. After his fill of watching the fire destroy, he walked away.

part III