Arcane: Ekko and Powder

The Firelights' base was abuzz with activity as the latest reports of Ambessa's movements filtered in. The small skirmish had been a victory, but everyone knew it was only the beginning. The alliance between Zaun and Piltover was growing stronger, and with that unity came hope—but also increased threats.

Ekko stood at the center of the strategy room, a large, makeshift map of Piltover and Zaun spread out before him. Powder, Vi, Claggor, Mylo, and several other Firelights and enforcers were gathered around, their expressions serious as they discussed their next steps.

"We need to be proactive," Vi said, leaning over the table. "If we wait for Ambessa to make her move, we're giving her the advantage. We need to figure out where she's regrouping and strike first."

Claggor nodded in agreement. "She's testing our defenses now, but it's only a matter of time before she brings her full force."

Ekko rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Agreed, but we can't spread ourselves too thin. We need to secure Zaun and Piltover's vulnerable areas first. If she's planning something big, she'll likely target key locations."

Powder tapped a section of the map with her finger. "What about the Hextech research lab? If I were Ambessa, I'd aim for that. It's where all the innovation is happening, and taking it out would deal a major blow to Piltover."

"Good point," Ekko said, marking the location on the map. "We'll set up additional defenses there. But we also need to consider the Undercity. If Ambessa's forces infiltrate Zaun, it could cause chaos."

Vi smirked. "Let 'em try. They won't get far with us around."

Over the next few days, preparations intensified. Piltover enforcers worked alongside Zaunite engineers to fortify key areas. Barricades were reinforced with metal plating, and Powder's explosive traps were strategically placed to maximize their effectiveness.

In the Firelights' workshop, Powder was busy assembling more of her upgraded weapons. The lab was a whirlwind of activity, with sparks flying as she welded components together and tested the functionality of her creations.

Ekko entered, his Swordbat slung across his back. "How's it coming along?" he asked.

Powder looked up, her face smudged with grease but her eyes shining with determination. "Almost done. I've got a new batch of Flame Chompers ready, and I'm fine-tuning Fishbones' targeting system."

Ekko grinned. "You're amazing, you know that?"

Powder blushed slightly but waved him off. "Just doing my part. Besides, you're the one out there swinging that Swordbat like a pro."

"Couldn't do it without you," Ekko said, stepping closer. "We make a pretty good team."

Powder smiled, her cheeks still tinged with pink. "Yeah, we do."

Later that evening, Caitlyn Kiramman arrived at the Firelights' base, her elegant Piltover uniform a sharp contrast to the gritty surroundings. She was accompanied by a few enforcers, their presence a reminder of the alliance between the two cities.

Vi greeted her with a wide grin, pulling her into a quick hug. "You made it."

"Of course," Caitlyn said, her voice calm but firm. "We need to coordinate our efforts if we're going to stand a chance against Ambessa."

The group gathered in the main meeting room, where Caitlyn presented updated intelligence on Ambessa's movements. "Our scouts report increased activity near the southern borders of Piltover," she said, pointing to a marked location on the map. "It's likely a staging ground for her next assault."

Ekko studied the map closely. "We'll need to send a team to scout the area. If we can confirm her plans, we might be able to set a trap."

"I'll go," Vi volunteered immediately. "Me, Claggor, and Mylo can handle it."

"I'm coming too," Powder said firmly. "If there's a chance to use my gadgets in the field, I want to be there."

Ekko hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Alright, but be careful. We can't afford to lose anyone."

The group set out under the cover of darkness, navigating the winding pathways that connected Zaun to Piltover. The air was tense, the weight of the mission pressing heavily on their shoulders.

As they approached the suspected staging ground, Vi signaled for the group to halt. "We're close," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Stay low and stay quiet."

They moved cautiously, their steps muffled by the soft earth beneath them. Powder carried Fishbones on her back, ready to spring into action if needed. Claggor and Mylo flanked Vi, their weapons at the ready.

From their vantage point, they could see a small encampment below, lit by flickering torches. A handful of soldiers in Noxian armor moved about, their presence confirming the intelligence Caitlyn had provided.

"We've got eyes on the target," Vi whispered into her communicator, relaying the information back to the base. "Small force, heavily armed. Could be a recon team or an advance guard."

"Understood," Ekko's voice crackled through the device. "Don't engage unless necessary. Just gather intel and get out."

The group observed the camp for several minutes, taking note of the soldiers' movements and the layout of the area. But just as they were about to retreat, a sharp sound broke the silence—a twig snapping underfoot.

The soldiers immediately went on high alert, drawing their weapons and scanning the area. Vi cursed under her breath. "We've been made. Time to move!"

The quiet reconnaissance mission quickly turned into a chaotic escape. The Noxian soldiers pursued them through the dense undergrowth, their shouts echoing in the night.

Powder fired off a few rounds from Fishbones, the rockets exploding behind them and creating a wall of fire that slowed their pursuers. "Keep moving!" she shouted, her voice tinged with adrenaline.

Claggor and Mylo covered their rear, their weapons flashing as they fought off the soldiers who got too close. Vi led the group, her fists a blur as she punched through obstacles in their path.

Ekko, who had been monitoring the situation from the base, listened anxiously to the sounds of the battle over the communicator. "Fall back to the rendezvous point," he instructed. "We'll be waiting for you."

The group finally reached the extraction point, where a Firelights team was waiting with a transport vehicle. As they climbed aboard, Powder fired one last rocket, the explosion scattering the remaining soldiers and ensuring their escape.

When the group returned to the base, they were greeted with a mix of relief and admiration. Despite the unexpected encounter, they had managed to gather valuable intel and make it back safely.

Ekko pulled Powder into a tight hug as soon as she stepped off the vehicle. "You okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.

"Yeah," Powder said, her breath still ragged. "Just a little shaken, but I'm fine."

"You did great out there," Ekko said, his tone reassuring. "We couldn't have done it without you."

Powder smiled weakly, her exhaustion evident. "Thanks, but I think I'll stick to building gadgets for a while."

The group debriefed in the meeting room, sharing the information they had gathered and discussing their next steps. Despite the close call, morale remained high, bolstered by their growing unity and determination.

As the night wore on, Ekko found himself back on the rooftop with Powder, the stars once again providing a brief moment of peace.

"We're getting closer," Powder said softly, her head resting on Ekko's shoulder. "Closer to a future where Zaun and Piltover can really stand together."

Ekko nodded, his arm wrapped around her. "And we'll keep fighting for it. Together."

"Always," Powder whispered, her voice steady and sure.

The road ahead remained uncertain, but their bond—and their hope—was stronger than ever.