Example of 'Original Writing' -- The Power of Storytelling

Original Writing – Short Story opening: Carbon Neutral     
They had all agreed that 18 was the right age. Cobalt had long since recognised the streaks of grey in her parents’ hair, the lines around their eyes, and a concentrated tightness in their expressions when carrying out the work. For Cobalt, it was an easy decision. She smiled at her parents, standing across from her – the two linked in each other’s arms out of habit, and for reassurance. Cobalt was their youngest – they’d done this before, but this time felt different. All three turned towards the Guide as she cleared her throat for attention.           “Cobalt Stone. Athena and Baldur Stone.”           The Guide paused, surveying the three, and the small extended crowd behind. Her robes displayed the threads of generations, a burden, a sigil of her status and responsibilities. For a second, Cobalt felt the cold shadow of power pass across her, but the Guide extended her hand across the gulf – it was warm, and worn, and full of love.           “Young Cobalt. You have reached the twilight of your childish years. Since the time of your birth, your parents, family, and community have shouldered the weight of you Work.”           “I am grateful.” She replied, as practised. The Guide smiled and inclined her head.           “You are now old enough to take on the Work yourself, should you choose to. As you know, you may defer the decision for another three years, and remain in the care of your family. If at any point before then, you wish to take up responsibility you shall, but when those years are up, a decision must be made.”           “I understand and I am ready.” Cobalt replied, an excited yet nervous heat rising in her chest.           “Excellent. It is truly wonderful to see a young person so enthusiastic and dedicated to their duty. May I ask, do you intend to stay with the Stone household, or found your own?”           Cobalt glanced at her parents, watching their proud, and worried, expressions shift.           “For now, I will stay with the Stone household. I wish to share the burdens and the Work of my Kin.”           “An exceptional decision. I am delighted to have been part of your journey, young Cobalt Stone. Are you ready to take your vow?”            Cobalt inhaled, and held the breath for a second, feeling the flow of oxygen into their blood. She nodded. The assembled congregation all turned their eyes to watch her.           “For my family, and my clan. For the young, old, and less-able. For those who will follow, for myself, and for our world. I take on the duty and burden of Work. For all I take, I will give back, for all I use, I will return, for everything spent, I will repay.”           There was a pause, and then the joined voices of the gathered crowd spoke the final promise.           “Those who came before took everything from us. Their greed ate our future, and we must forever live with their wreckage. We will not follow them into despair. We will atone for them. We will take on their burden. And we won’t forget.”