Their baskets overflowing with memories, Zoe and the the other helpers make their way back to the center of the field. There, in the gathering darkness, two counselors have started lighting sticks and holding them up like torches, ready to light the immense pile of wood that will be the bonfire.
The torch flames waver and dance as they move around, lining up directly opposite each other on either side of the woodpile. Those are weirdly specific positions, you think—until you realize that they're lined up with path of the magical conduit out to the Timeless Circle. Of course.
"We're about to start our last tradition of the Camp Cedarcrest season—the bonfire." Ms. Martin's megaphone-amplified voice is serious and starting to fill with emotion. "Think of all of the happy times you've had over this summer—and if you've been here in years past, think about those happy times, too." There won't be any happy times at Camp Cedarcrest in the future; not any more. "Think about the memory that you wrote down," she continues, motioning to the baskets. "Hold it in your mind and give it to the fire.
"Bonfire, we give you our memories!"
Everyone chants back, "Bonfire, we give you our memories!"
And then everyone counts down together. "Three—two—one—GO!"
In perfect unison, the firelighters lower their torches and bury them into the pile.
WHOOSH!
The fire springs into life, and the whole field erupts into cheers, gasps, and applause as the red glow breaks forth like a second sunrise.
Another bonfire has started.
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