Carrying Lila in his arms, Jared walked slowly through the ancient city.

Lila rested against his shoulder, her small hand gripping his clothes tightly as her breathing gradually steadied.

She had fallen asleep.

Tear tracks still clung to the corners of her eyes, but there was a faint curve at her lips, as if she were dreaming something good.

Jared instinctively slowed his pace, careful not to wake her.

The streets were narrow, buildings pressing in close on both sides. Their walls were etched with ancient Ghost Clan runes.

Some had faded with time. Others still glowed faint blue—like the last fireflies flickering in the dark.