“The Keeper of the Light” is a 99 word micro-fiction story written for the Verdant Raven 2026 writing competition on WritingBattle.com using the prompts: Firewatch genre), Lighthouse Keeper (Character), and Belt (object). It placed in the top 64 in the Final Showdown earning the Poetic Prose trophy and pips for Pacing, Impact, Creativity, and Character.

“I think something’s happening. Can you turn your light inland?” Firewatch called over the radio.

The Keeper’s gaze fell from Orion’s Belt to the darkness over his shoulder, where the firewatch tower stood. He squinted. The lighthouse lamp swept the sea, doing nothing to illuminate the situation. He couldn’t oblige, of course; someone could run aground. Safer to keep looking outward. A fire should be visible in this gloom, unless it had just ignited—or was hidden. He could catch it early. He paused, gripping the rusted lamp handle. At least he wouldn’t be alone. 

He turned his light inward.

Photo by Fynn Zentner on Unsplash

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