Fire (The X-Files)

"Fire" is the fourth episode of the first season of the American science fiction television series The X-Files. It premiered on the Fox network on October 1, 1993. It was written by Chris Carter and directed by Larry Shaw.

The episode centers on Special Agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) as they investigate a series of arsons committed by Cecil L'ively (Mark Sheppard), a pyrokinesis-enabled man who can start fires with his mind. Mulder's past relationship with a woman named Phoebe Green (Amanda Pays), a criminal profiler, is also explored, as she assists in the investigation.

L'ively, driven by an obsessive and unrequited love for a British aristocrat, is using his abilities to eliminate anyone he perceives as a threat to their potential relationship. Mulder and Scully must race against time to stop L'ively before he can commit further acts of arson, while Mulder grapples with his complicated feelings for Phoebe Green.

The episode explores themes of obsession, the destructive nature of unchecked power, and the complexities of human relationships. "Fire" is notable for its early exploration of paranormal abilities within the X-Files universe and for introducing a recurring character in Phoebe Green. The episode received generally positive reviews, with particular praise for Sheppard's portrayal of Cecil L'ively.