From the introduction: Candle works evenings, carrying a torch to light the way for local London pedestrians (a role historically known as a “link-boy” or “Glym Jack”). Candle currently works the area between the East India Docks on the River Thames, and the East India House. Despite earning a meager subsistence, Candle feels great empathy for others, and often keeps tabs on familiar clients in case they need a hand. Edony, an older sibling who was more like a parent, died shielding Candle with their body when their ramshackle slum collapsed, and Candle has always sought to earn that sacrifice. The beatific smile on Edony’s pale and bleeding lips has served Candle like a warm beacon through dark nights, tough times, and temptation, encouraging Candle to do the right thing in Edony’s memory.