The Hollow of Ash

I slipped through the low garden gate into the damp morning courtyard. A tall mossy stone lantern stood among the gravel, dark and quiet. I froze behind a smooth river pebble, tracking the cool draft whistling through its carved opening. Deep inside sat a mound of cold grey ash from old incense. I held still... listening. Then, with a sudden lurch forward, I thrust my broad palm straight into the carved chamber! The powdery ash gave way with a soft puff, coating my fingers in dry, soothing grey silt that completely shut out the morning chill. -basher