|
|
http://zermoth.net/mabi/library/view/en/320-10008-F
Campfire Manual
Contents
1. Preface
2. The Truth About Campfires
2.1. Requirements
2.2. Creating a Spark
2.3. Creating a Campfire
3. If I Learn the Campfire Skill...
4. The Effects of a Campfire
5. Campfire Etiquette
6. Conclusion
1. Preface
What do you think is the biggest difference between humans and animals?
Some might say it's the fact that humans use language to communicate. Others might say it's the tools that humans use. But I say that the biggest difference between the two is the usage of fire.
Although not as advanced as humans, animals have their own way of communicating with each other. Also, some animals even show signs of utilizing tools. When it comes to fire, however, there is a complete distinction between humans and animals. Most animals are afraid of fire; even the ones that aren't as afraid still refrain from them, as they don't need a tool for warmth and cooking.
Don't forget this important truth: heat is not the only thing for which fire is good. Through fire, we humans were able to have light during the night, cook food and greatly advance tool production. Furthermore, it has given us great insight into the property of metals. Fire is not only the foundation of human civilization, but the power that sustains our life, even now.
It is known that travelers have a hard time using fire. They don't know where and how to start a fire or how to use it properly.
This book is a campfire manual. It has everything you need to know about campfires, such as basics on starting campfires, suggested steps when you can't start a fire, and tips on how to properly extinguish the fire.
If you remember that containing the fire is far more important than starting it, and you heed these instructions carefully, fire will make your life much more pleasant and enjoyable.
-Baltane 12, Adamnan
2. The Truth About Campfires
2.1. Requirements
You can't make a campfire out of nothing. The most important thing is to create a spark and make it catch on fire.
Most commonly, you will need about 5 pieces of firewood and a couple rocks to start the fire.
You can find rocks almost anywhere; however, the wood you use must be dry firewood that is of adequate size, or it will be difficult to start the fire.
But don't worry. You can chop this kind of firewood using an axe or other tools from the trees around.
Dried grass, small pieces of wood and dry bushes can also help start the flames, but dry firewood works the best.
First, gather stones from the ground and arrange them in a circle. This will keep the wind from blowing out the flame and also from spreading elsewhere. Place 2 or 3 pieces of firewood inside the rocks, and a small piece of starter wood to catch the spark on fire.
Remember that the most important thing is the 5 pieces of firewood.
2.2. Creating a Spark
Next, you need to create a spark.
Use the remaining 2 pieces of firewood, not placed in the pit, to create the spark.
For these pieces, it's good to have hard ones with rough texture so that it can cause friction. Also, the 2 pieces do not necessarily have to be the same kind of wood.
Take the bigger piece of wood and create a deep groove in the center. Place a split piece from the other wood and hook it on the groove of the big piece. Tightly clasp the hooked piece of wood with both hands, and begin rubbing your hands back and forth. Soon, the heat created by the friction between the pieces will start a small flame.
Remember that this process is easier said than done. (But once you master it, it'll be a piece of cake.)
2.3. Lighting a Campfire
You can use this small flame to light the already prepared firewood. Use the leftover pieces to spread the fire evenly, making sure the fire doesn't go out.
Firewood does not instantly catch on fire, so be patient as you light it.
Also, remember that how you stack the firewood plays a big role in how well the campfire will start.
If you successfuly go through this process, you will have a nice campfire. But it might take you more than one try. If you are a beginner, you will probably get stuck at stages 2.2-2.3 for awhile.
3. If I Learn the Campfire Skill...
Once you finally learn the skill, you will be able to start a campfire with the minimal required materials.
After you possess 5 pieces of firewood in your inventory, which is the minimal requirement, press 'S' to open your Skills Window. Locate the Campfire Skill. Click on the "Use" button next to the skill and a new window where you can place the materials will open.
Now, press 'I' to open your Inventory and place the 5 pieces of firewood in the materials window. Then, you will need to select the place you want to start the Campfire. Once you select the place with the cursor, the Campfire will appear.
4. The Effects of Campfire
Campfires will usually last about half a day. Not only does the fire provide heat and give light to those around it, but if you are in a party, it also greatly boosts the morale of all the members. Of all the benefits of a campfire, the two most important ones are...
First, once you start a campfire, animals will not approach near it. Most animals are afraid of the fire and will avoid it once they feel the heat. So, even if you are out at night camping, you will be kept fairly safe from the attacks of wild animals.
(Remember, I said fairly safe, not completely. Don't blame me if you die because you're careless!)
Secondly, you can recover your stamina faster. If you use the Rest skill around the Campfire, you will notice your stamina ascending quickly. According to some adventure lovers, recovery that would normally take 6 hours will take an hour less.
What's more, you can use Campfire to heat your food and make a torch. So you see, the Campfire skill is a very useful skill. You should look into it!
5. Campfire Etiquette
A proper etiquette in starting a campfire is to keep a good distance from other campfires. You don't want to start a campfire next to one that is already existing because it is difficult to clean up and there is a greater danger of starting a wildfire.
Also, it is not appropriate to start a fire in the middle of town or next to someone's house. (How would you like it if someone started a fire next to your house?)
Remember, as great as fire is, it can also cause great damage if not handled properly. So please be mindful of that and use the Campfire skill appropriately.
6. Conclusion
I have just gone over elements of a campfire, regarding its effects and how to appropriately use it. I want to conclude by leaving you with a few reminders.
First, start a fire only when it's necessary. Campfires require a lot of wood, so having too many campfires can cause a shortage of wood for those who need it.
Also, remember to clean up after yourself. Please discard the remaining ashes so that the person who comes after will not have to pick up after you.
I hope you will benefit greatly from the Campfire skill and that you will share many unforgettable moments with others.
|
|