He listened as the captain held
The radio to his mouth.
Strong and sure he led his men
To put the fire out.

The smoke rolled from the windows;
He felt the familiar thrill.
A wave of glee passed through him
From the power of the kill.

Two figures stood together
As they donned their heavy gear;
Venturing in despite the risk,
And danger drawing near.

What would they see beyond the walls
Which bore the threat of death?
Would they still look heroic
As they drew their final breath?

He imagined he was with them;
He almost had to know.
Who were those men who placed their lives
Where devils feared to go…

They made it out; the building fell;
They staggered to the street.
The heroes crumbled to the ground,
Succumbing to the heat.

He watched as they began to move;
They dared to break his trance.
The cool air resurrected them,
The flames had lost their chance.

Outraged that they defied his plan
To witness their demise,
He cursed at their unspoken bond
As they helped each other rise.

He lingered in the darkness
‘Til the smoke began to thin;
He’d wait until their guard was down,
Then he would strike again.

Author’s Note: Special Thanks to a very encouraging echo.

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