The Philosophy of Fire

Fire has been a vital part of civilization since the dawn of time. No one person can claim its discovery, yet without it, life would be drastically different.

Consider the effects of fire on sentient life. It provides warmth and light, both of which are needed to survive. But beyond that, fire can be used to create. Metallurgy, Smithing, even Chemistry use fire to create. Iron ores are used in almost all types of structures and machines, yet without fire's heat, iron couldn't be purified enough to make a solid substance.

Fire can also provide a means of sterilization that we use for cooking raw meats. The weary hunter may also use fire to keep predators away. Indeed, fire can be used for many things to further civilization, but fire can also consume and destroy.

Watch as an unattended bonfire can spread and engulf the forest. A single spark can burn a building down. Fire also destroys life just as easily. Fire can be vital, yet terrible if left unchecked.

Fire is much like the sentient's life. It needs to be fed, and when treated with care, it can provide good things. But as with fire, a being, when left unattended, or treated inproperly, can become a wildfire - spreading destruction and sorrow. Treat others with care and respect, like a fire, lest you reap the consequences.