The smell of smoke burns my lungs. It is my favorite smell, that and gasoline. I sit atop the roof of the only stable building, staring out. It’s wonderful. The power. The control. It’s all mine. But now what?

The reason I had done all this is simple really. I was accused of being a witch, so I showed them the mercy of one.

I had ran away the night they planned to burn me and stowed away on a ship, a pirate ship, which I had not known at the time. They found me in their hull and threatened me until I explained my situation. They soon recruited me and taught me the life they all knew, to be free. I learned how to survive and how to steal. They were great friends. But they abandoned me as soon as we docked.

Using the knowledge I had gained from them, I slept in many towns and caves for months. I was almost eaten by a jaguar while in the marshy forest. But I was able to tame it. I guess I can see why I was accused of witchcraft now.

The feline and I ran off into the night and after six weeks, I had returned to the damned city of my birth.

I looked over the horizon with anger that soon turned to a chaotic grin. I parted ways with my purring pal and ran through the rain with my flint and steel. I slid through the streets and lit bins of wood. Everyone had collected stock for heating through the winter. All civilians were in their homes as it was still early morning. And city guards were on high alert, but I had agility and stealth on my side. I covered myself with a dark, hooded cloak and carefully, oh so carefully, stalked past each guard post while continuing to light the town.

As the smell of smoke filled the air and a black clouded polluted the sky, I climbed atop this corrupt building. The building itself is fine, but it’s the city hall, which is composed of hypocritical, old, sexist men. And so here I sit, on the only building not burning.

I hear their screams, their panic. My once terrified face, now can only smile gravely.

I’m not their weak little peasant to kick around anymore.

Now, I walk through the city, some places are still burning, but seeing all the ash on the ground makes me laugh. The deed has been done and I feel free, but I still don’t feel powerful. I will return one day to burn down, not just this city, but the whole kingdom. Be prepared…