Every year, snow or shine, Burnt Oak climbs the same hill at the same time of winter to light a campfire. Sometimes, he sings; sometimes, he talks to the breeze; always, he remembers the friend no longer at his side. And it's a nice, peaceful time of remembrance, one which the ponies around him know better than to interrupt.

Except, one winter, for an unexpected arrival - and for almost anypony else, Burnt Oak wouldn't have given them the time of day.

But he couldn't refuse his friend's daughter, could he?

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A story written for Jinglemas, as my (first) gift to the lovely Akataja. They didn't get a story last year, and I figured that it was on my shoulders to try and make things right again.

Rated "Highly Recommended" by Present Perfect.

Now featured on Equestria Daily! (10/1/19)