Arcane: Ekko and Powder

The Firelights had grown in number and purpose, their vision for Zaun slowly taking shape as more citizens saw them as protectors rather than rebels. Ekko and Powder stood at the heart of this movement, their connection and shared ideals a source of inspiration for everyone around them.

But with growth came challenges. Zaun was a city of complexities—gritty survivalism tangled with dreams of a better tomorrow. Even the chembarons, once perceived as unassailable forces of corruption, began to take note of the Firelights' activities.

The day started in the bustling Firelight base, a hive of activity that mirrored Zaun's ever-moving pace. Ekko sat at a long table strewn with maps, schematics, and lists, his mind working through strategies. Powder was beside him, flipping through her sketches and making notes.

"Have we finalized the supply routes to the Sump?" Ekko asked Claggor, who was leaning over a map.

"Almost," Claggor replied. "But there's been trouble near the bridge—some chembaron lackeys trying to shake down anyone who passes through."

Powder's pencil stopped mid-sketch. "We could use the new drones I've been working on. A few passes overhead with bright lights and sirens might scare them off without a fight."

Ekko gave her an approving nod. "That could work. Let's test it this evening. We can't afford to lose any more supplies."

Benzo joined the conversation, his presence as steadying as ever. "Word is spreading about what we're doing here. People are starting to believe. But that also means the chembarons will push back harder."

Ekko met his gaze. "We'll be ready. We have to be."

By midday, Ekko and Powder found themselves leading a team into the Sump to distribute supplies. The hoverboard, now equipped with Powder's latest modifications, carried Ekko effortlessly through the narrow streets, while Powder followed close behind on her own customized ride.

The streets were alive with activity, children playing amidst the ruins and merchants calling out their wares. But there was an undercurrent of tension—eyes watching from the shadows, whispers of the Firelights reaching every corner of the city.

When they reached the distribution point, a small crowd had already gathered. Ekko hopped off his hoverboard, his voice carrying over the noise. "We've got food, water, and medical supplies. Everyone will get what they need—no fighting, no pushing."

Powder handed out rations, her bright smile disarming even the most skeptical faces. She paused to crouch down and hand a small bag to a young boy, who clung to his mother's leg. "Here you go. Stay safe, okay?"

The boy nodded shyly, and his mother whispered a heartfelt "Thank you."

As the distribution wrapped up, a commotion erupted nearby. Powder instinctively reached for the small gadget strapped to her hip, while Ekko signaled for the others to stay alert.

A group of rough-looking enforcers approached, their uniforms marked not by Piltover's crest but by the sigils of a chembaron.

"Well, well," their leader drawled, a smirk twisting his scarred face. "The famous Firelights, handing out charity like you own the place."

Ekko stepped forward, his expression calm but firm. "We're here to help. No one owns Zaun, least of all you."

The enforcer sneered. "That's cute. But you're stepping on toes, kid. Big ones. You'd better watch yourself."

Before Ekko could reply, Powder interjected, her tone deceptively sweet. "You'd better watch yourself, too. This is our home, and we're not going anywhere."

The enforcer's gaze flicked to her, something dangerous glinting in his eyes. But as he opened his mouth to respond, the hum of a drone overhead silenced him. It was one of Powder's prototypes, circling low enough to be seen. Its lights flashed, and a siren wailed briefly before it shot off into the distance.

The enforcers exchanged uneasy glances, clearly unsettled. After a tense moment, their leader jerked his head, signaling a retreat.

As they disappeared into the shadows, Ekko exhaled. "Nice timing with the drone."

Powder grinned. "Always prepared."

Back at the base, Ekko and Powder found a quiet corner to decompress. The day's events weighed on them both, but there was also a sense of accomplishment.

"You were amazing out there," Ekko said, leaning back against the wall.

Powder shrugged, though a faint blush colored her cheeks. "I just did what needed to be done. You were the real leader today."

Ekko reached out, taking her hand in his. "We're a team, Pow. I couldn't do this without you."

She squeezed his hand, her voice softer. "I know. And I couldn't do this without you, either."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the sounds of the base a reassuring backdrop. Powder eventually broke the quiet, her tone thoughtful. "Do you think we're really making a difference? That it'll last?"

Ekko turned to her, his gaze steady. "I think we have to believe it will. If we don't, no one else will."

Her smile returned, small but genuine. "You always know what to say."

As night fell over Zaun, the Firelights regrouped for a debrief. Plans were made for the coming days—testing Powder's drones, securing more allies, and preparing for whatever the chembarons might throw their way.

For Ekko and Powder, the road ahead was uncertain, but their bond had never been stronger. Together, they were not just building a movement but a vision for a brighter future. And as long as they had each other, they knew they could face anything.