Redemption

The surrounding buildings were nothing more then crude log cabins and stone buildings. We built with anything we could find, and in this miniscule area our options were desperately limited. But we survived, and given the circumstances, that was enough to rejoice over.

The class was typically loud when I entered. When I walked through the front door, they tried pathetically to quiet down and sit still, suggesting what angels they were, but it did no use. I could only laugh gently at their meek attempt.

"Ok, class. I apologize about my lateness, but we will get to work immediately. I know you are all looking forward to another day of learning."

A predictable groan migrated through the classroom. I walked over to my desk and put my bag down. The class was quiet as I walked to the front and leaned against the wall.

"Now, where did we leave off yesterday?"

A student from the back raised his hand. "I believe, sir, we just began Chapter 11: 'The End of Prosperity.'"

"Ah, yes. As you all know, we will be taking a field trip next week to the place of the Fathers. Who can recount who the Fathers are?"

The same student answered. "The Fathers are the only remaining men left from the New Dark Age."

I raised my eyebrow with a smile. "You're on a roll. Now remember class, the Fathers are very old, but very wise. Use logic, and ask sensible questions. This is a very special honor to meet these legendary people. I want to see respect for them. Anyone who acts out of line will be taken to the chamber immediately. I don't want to host an embarrassment here. Does everyone understand?

The class gave a unanimous "yes."

"Good."

After class I completed my journey down the floors of the tower and out into Redemption's village center. Walking slowly over to the fountain in the middle of the circular area, I reached behind me and took out a bagged lunch. I sat down at the edge of the fountain and looked into it. It was riddled with wooden coins, thrown in for good luck by passing individuals. I was about to turn around and open my bag, but something glistening at the bottom of the fountain fueled my interest. I leaned now closer to the slightly rippling water, which was now trembling under my breath, and I saw that the shiny object, hiding mostly among wooden coins, was a copper penny. Overcome with wonder, I looked around to make sure no one was watching, and I quickly reached my hand in, snatching the small disk. I dried it on my shirt and held it up into the sunlight to examine the now-forgotten form of money. It was in perfect condition with the date 1996. The bust of President Lincoln was still intact, and a dull picture of a building graced the other side of the coin.