The Lantern that Carried Rain

A lantern-maker crafted lights that glowed only during storms. He claimed raindrops held stories, and his lanterns captured them. One night, a young woman bought one and listened as it flickered. Within the dim blue glow she heard a lullaby her mother once sang. She wept — and the lantern grew brighter, as if feeding on memories healed. By dawn, the storm had passed, but the lantern still glowed gently. She kept it above her door to remind herself that not all storms destroy; some illuminate things we’re finally ready to see.