As they lit more lanterns, word spread: the lights were returning.
People whispered of the Lantern Keeper and the Mage — two sparks pushing back the dark.
But with each victory, the Darkborn grew bolder. The shadows fought harder.
One night, after a narrow escape, Kira confronted Ren as they tended their wounds.
"There's something you're not telling me."
Ren hesitated. "The first Keeper who saved me—" He looked away. "Was my sister."
Kira's breath caught.
"She fought the darkness alone… and was lost to it." His voice shook. "I've carried her duty ever since."
Kira reached for his hand. "You don't have to carry it alone anymore."
For a moment, the weight in his eyes lifted.