Homo ignis.
Leaning forward, toward the flames, tentatively they lit the fennel stalk. Its light shining bright under a sky of many stars, it illuminated their path ahead. About them, creatures of the night now kept distance, watching in wonder at fire captured. Passing the torch from one to another, all marvelled at its potency. Feasts and beasts springing forth a burning plenty, both bellies and minds were nurtured. Alchemical endeavours soon ignited, powers no longer magical become theirs to behold. Torch held aloft, to the far corners of the world they travelled. Then to the stars under which they once stood.
[Extract from PhD Thesis] #FlashFiction