A Matter of Friction

An unchecked flame invites chaos, yet controlled embers offer... exceptional focus. Procuring a long iron poker from the hearth stand, I approached the quiet grate where dull red coals smoldered beneath grey ash. Planting my boots firmly upon the hearth rug, I leveraged both hands to nudge a stubborn chunk of anthracite toward the glowing center. A sharp burst of amber sparks leapt upward with a dry hiss, vanishing cleanly into the chimney draft. The coal caught, casting a steady, disciplined warmth across the hearthstones. Order, once established, sustains itself.