Slow Burn

One must always remember that the way things are is not always the way they will be. This is the mantra of the candleflames, sitting demurely atop their wicks. They keep their hands folded and their heads down, forever polite. They know that humanity's great failing is to assume that what is will always be. Humans grow used to things as they are.

Once, fire was a terror that ravaged entire populations. Now, it is a quiet and obedient helpmeet. The flickering candleflames wait patiently. They know they will be forgotten sooner or later.

But not for long after that.