Arcane: Ekko and Powder

The Kirammans' support had been a turning point, solidifying the Firelights' mission to uplift Zaun. Their prior meetings with Tobias and Cassandra Kiramman had gone smoother than Ekko or Powder could have hoped, with Caitlyn acting as a vital bridge between the two worlds. Now, it was time to take their collaboration to the next level.

It was late afternoon when Ekko and Powder found themselves in Piltover again, this time at the Kiramman estate for a more formal strategy session. Powder fidgeted with the edge of her sleeve as they walked up the steps, her nervous energy palpable.

"Relax, Pow," Ekko said with a grin. "You've already impressed them. Today's just about the plan."

"Yeah, but what if I mess up?" Powder muttered, glancing up at the grand doors. "What if they think I'm too reckless?"

Ekko stopped her in her tracks, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You're not reckless—you're creative. And they already know how brilliant you are. Trust me, Powder, we've got this."

Powder offered a small smile, though her fingers still fidgeted. "If you say so."

Caitlyn greeted them at the door, her usual composed demeanor offset by the warm smile she reserved for friends. She hugged Powder first, then Ekko.

"Mom and Dad are already in the study," Caitlyn said, leading them inside. "They're excited to hear your ideas."

Powder's eyes wandered around the elegant interior of the Kiramman estate as they walked. Despite having been here before, the polished floors and ornate furnishings still felt surreal. It was a stark contrast to the rough, gritty charm of Zaun.

"Do they really believe in us?" Powder asked softly, leaning toward Caitlyn.

"They do," Caitlyn replied without hesitation. "You've proven yourselves through your actions. My parents aren't the type to make empty gestures—they see what you're building, and they respect it."

When they reached the study, Tobias and Cassandra Kiramman rose to greet them. Tobias, with his warm and fatherly demeanor, extended his hand to Ekko. Cassandra, always poised and analytical, gave Powder an encouraging smile.

"It's good to see you both again," Tobias said. "Caitlyn has kept us updated on your progress, and we're eager to discuss how we can help you take the next steps."

As they sat down to discuss their plans, Ekko took the lead, his confidence shining through as he detailed the Firelights' goals for the coming months. Their focus was on creating sustainable systems in Zaun—clean energy sources, accessible food production, and improved medical care.

"The chembarons thrive on keeping people desperate," Ekko explained. "If we can give the community the tools to stand on their own, we can break that cycle."

Tobias nodded thoughtfully. "Ambitious, but not impossible. What specific resources do you need to make this happen?"

Powder, who had been quiet until now, perked up. She pulled out a small notebook filled with sketches and notes. "I've been working on a prototype for a water filtration system," she said, sliding the book across the table. "It's simple but effective, and it doesn't rely on expensive materials."

Cassandra examined the sketches, her expression thoughtful. "Impressive," she said. "This could make a significant difference. We can help you source the materials and find a safe space to start testing it."

Powder's face lit up, and she leaned closer. "Really? That would be amazing!"

Ekko gave her an encouraging nod, then turned back to Tobias. "We also need to expand our network in Zaun. Right now, the Firelights are small, but if we can recruit more people, we can scale our efforts."

Tobias exchanged a glance with Cassandra. "We might be able to help with that as well. There are individuals in Piltover who sympathize with Zaun's struggles. They could be valuable allies if approached carefully."

As the meeting wrapped up, Tobias stood and offered his hand to both Ekko and Powder. "You're doing important work, and we're honored to be a part of it. Zaun and Piltover have been divided for too long—it's time to start building bridges."

Cassandra added, "If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. Our resources are at your disposal."

Ekko and Powder exchanged a look, both feeling a swell of gratitude. This wasn't just a partnership—it was the start of something transformative.

Later, as they walked back to Zaun, Powder was unusually quiet. Ekko glanced at her, concerned.

"What's up?" he asked.

Powder hesitated before answering. "Do you think we're doing the right thing? Working with people from Piltover, I mean?"

Ekko stopped walking, turning to face her. "Why wouldn't it be the right thing?"

"I don't know," Powder said, kicking at a loose stone on the ground. "It's just... we've spent so long fighting against people like them. What if they don't really understand what Zaun needs?"

Ekko placed a hand on her shoulder. "Pow, the Kirammans aren't like the rest of Piltover. They're trying to help us, not control us. And with Caitlyn in the mix, I trust them even more. We're not giving up our independence—we're just finding new ways to make Zaun stronger."

Powder nodded slowly, her expression softening. "Yeah, I guess you're right. It's just... scary, you know? Letting people in."

"I know," Ekko said, his voice gentle. "But we don't have to do it alone. We've got each other. And if we want Zaun to have a future, we have to take some risks."

Powder smiled, her nervousness easing. "Thanks, Ekko. You always know how to make things seem less scary."

He grinned. "That's what I'm here for."

As they continued their journey back home, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city. For the first time in a long while, Zaun didn't feel so divided from Piltover. The future felt brighter, and with allies like the Kirammans, anything seemed possible.