The first flame leaped up, and the whole crowd answered with one huge cheer. Vivaan felt the sound boom in his chest, bigger than drums, bigger than all the noise.

“Now I get it,” Vivaan said, leaning close to his father. Vivek nodded and said, “People cheer because we all want truth to win, not just in stories.”

Vivaan touched his pouch and thought of small choices, too. Being honest, helping quickly, and not rushing past what mattered felt like his own bright arrow.