Burnt

The fire snapped and hissed as the coals burned down to ash on the hearth. The shadows played along the rough stones from the sconces mounted in the corners of the room.

For generations this room was a meeting place for everyone old and young. Stories, tragedies, and triumphs coated the walls thicker than the ash upon the stones.

The old ways were fading, but traditions still remained. Voices echoed down the hallway as eager children piled into the room to share in their first meeting. They playfully shoved one another to claim a seat closest to the fire.

Sparks flew into the air as the fire roared to life. The elder stepped through the flames and the children squealed with delight. Magic and wonder lit up their faces and their eyes sparkled with delight.

Tonight marked a turning point in their young lives, but they would never forget the wonder of this night.

The elder beemed taking in the wonder of the children. Even though the old ways were fading there was still hope, because the next generation was ready and eager to take on the challenge. 

He knelt on the hearth, spread his arms wide, and told tales old as history itself until the coals burned down once more.