Hidden within the darkness, resided a low flame.
It reached out to touch him.
The touch was warm and gentle, and he did not resist.
Heat surged through his body,
His heart soured and his eyes lit alight.
It brought its hand to his neck,
The touch was hot and powerful, and he did not resist.
Instead, he pushed his hand deep within.
He found that the heart of the fire was cool.
It soothed his burning body and he kept his hand there,
until it had completely melted away.