Twas the night before Solstice, when all through the temple,
priests of Dahak kept their work simple.
Offerings were hung near the great fire with care,
In hopes that the evil god would soon be there.
Little Hope was supposed to be nestled all snug in her bed,
with visions of mother and father in her head.
Father with his flames and mother with her staff,
both would be together, as simple as that.
When up in her room, there arose with a clatter,
some of the priests wondered what was the matter.
Out of her room she ran with a dash.
She made vases fly around and fall with a smash.
Under a bench is where she did go.
Watching them search for her would be such a show.
When what to her young eyes should finally appear.
A burst of bright flames, her father's arrival was clear.
The priests fell to the ground and began worshipping quick.
Little Hope's eyes grew wide, thinking it all a cool trick.
As fast as a thought, up rose his flame.
A loud strong voice called out loyal names.
Curious Little Hope continued her listening,
but deep down she knew one name was missing.
And then, in a twinkling, she heard her proof.
Her mother's name was mentioned, but badly, her eyes began to droop.
As she held her toy closely, there was a close sound.
One of the priests stood before her, Little Hope had been found.
The priest was dressed in robes, from his head to his foot.
He was smelly from the fire, of ashes and soot.
If her powers were full, she would have attacked.
but he was bigger and strong, and he pulled her up and back.
How the fire twinkled in his lifeless eyes, sometimes it was scary!
He reached out to take the toy she always did carry.
Little Hope got mad like a big person and told him "No!"
She ran from him quick, to the flame she did go.
She set her toy down, all careful as planned.
She wanted her father to see her cute toy lamb.
A smile on her face, a clear message she would send.
She wanted her mother and father to be friends.
The flames spoke not a word, but returned to the dirt.
Little Hope's eyes teared up, her feelings were hurt.
She wiped her red eyes and reached down for her toy.
Wanting to share in some family Solstice joy.
Little Hope sighed and promised it would happen some day.
A priestess said it was bedtime, so she let her lead the way.
As she returned to her room, she hugged her little lamb tight.
She whispered the name Gabrielle.
And wished her mother a happy Solstice and good night.
THE END.