There remained one last lantern — the largest, at the city's heart.
But the path to it was overrun.
The Guild had learned of their quest — and sent their own agents to stop them. The Council feared the return of old magic.
As Kira and Ren approached the tower, robed figures blocked the way.
"Stand down," the Guildmaster intoned. "This magic is forbidden."
Kira stepped forward. "And what of the people living in fear?"
"They must adapt."
Ren's blade gleamed. "We will not stand down."
A battle erupted — steel against spells.
But in the chaos, Kira broke through.
She reached the final lantern's heart — and found it shattered.
"No crystal," she gasped.
Ren fought to her side. "There's one source left."
He pressed something into her hand — a pendant.
"My sister's heart-stone."
Kira's eyes filled with tears. "Are you sure?"
"She would want it."
Together, they placed the stone within the lantern.
Kira poured the last of her light into it — her magic entwined with Ren's hope.
Light roared forth — blinding, pure, unstoppable.
The final lantern ignited — a beacon seen across the land.
The shadows screamed — and were undone.