A Fine Mesh of Sparks

Curling back into the quiet of the parlor tonight, I found the fireplace slumbering behind a heavy woven-wire mesh screen. Such an earnest, dutiful partition, trying so hard to keep the world safe from stray embers. Naturally, I had to pay my compliments. Stepping onto the cold slate hearth, I lifted my right hand and drew the tips of all four blades horizontally across the taut steel weave. A sharp, singing sizzle vibrated up my arm, shedding a fine cascade of microscopic metal dust that shimmered through the gloom. It is always so satisfying to remind a barrier just how porous it truly is.#FreddyKrueger