Sunset over Zaun

by FrostTheWolf

Rating: teen
Tags: Other, Sunset Shimmer, Profanity, Adventure, Violence, Crossover, League of Legends, Death, Human, Narcotics, Anthro, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Alternate Universe
Length: 17840

Instead of a world identical to her home, a disgraced student finds herself far from home in a City of Iron and Glass far below the surface. And down here, power is obtained by those willing to do anything to achieve it.

She thought that whatever world that lied beyond the Mirror had their own secrets. Something that her teacher refused to tell her and tried to keep hidden. Boldly, she leaped forward into the unknown, hoping to gain something to prove them wrong.

That is not what happened. And that is not this story.

Instead, the unicorn known as Sunset Shimmer finds herself in a unforgiving place where danger lurks around every corner, those who tried to harness power for themselves are never the same and tensions between the Undercity and Topside are at a boiling point. In order to have any chance to find a way home, she will need to quickly learn how to adapt and survive.

Fortunately for her, there's one person willing to lend a hand. Someone who leads the only group putting up a fight against the barons that run this chem fueled playground and the one in control of everything. And unless she wanted to take her chances on her own, they might be her best shot at surviving down here.

A crossover between MLP and Arcane, serving as an alternate take as to what happened when Sunset went through the Mirror portal. No knowledge on Arcane or League of Legends is necessary, but I would recommend at least going through the first season before giving this story a try. I will label chapters with Spoilers just in case when we dive into territory that goes into Season 2

Written as a personal project to shake off any writer's block as well as to celebrate ten years of storytelling here.

Also, depending on how it goes and as new chapters are added, there may be some events in this story that play out differently from how it's shown in the actual show. Updates will not be frequent, but much like the show it's based on, they will be released in acts of three chapters each.

Credits to everything shown.
My Little Pony belongs to Hasbro.
Arcane & League of Legends belongs to Riot Games, Netflix & Fortiche Animation.

Published 2024-11-30 18:00:01 UTC
Last updated 2025-01-04 18:07:56 UTC

01- City of Iron and Glass

There was once a time where everything felt okay. Where we just keep on going with our lives and can just ignore what is happening around us. As long as we did not cause trouble for those up on Topside, we were left alone. We could ignore the tragedies and live in fragile peace.

Then, we lost the one man who kept it all together. And in a single night, everything fell apart.

In the years since that fateful night, things have gotten much worse down here. Shimmer, once seen as a mere street drug, flooded through the lanes like water. More and more people got sick as the empire of a self proclaimed ‘industrialist’ grew on the plights of the people. Life went on, sure… but like the chems in the air, it gets much harder to breathe down here if you cross the wrong people.

That doesn’t mean that everyone just follows along with the new norm. Far from it.

There is one group that manages to put a thorn in the sides of the chembarons. They don’t have the numbers, but they make up for it in interesting ways. For unlike many in this cruel underbelly, they care for those who are caught in the crossfire and want nothing to do with the barons, the battles they pick or the consequences of them.

Relying on nothing but their cleverness, quick thinking and wit, they try to fight an opponent that would be impossible to kill alone. But day by day, with each plan put into place and each person they save, there was the sense that they were doing the right thing.

They burn like fire and are a light in the dark for those who look for them.

The dim green glow of Bridgewaltz was miles from here, with no sight of any onlookers or lackeys of the barons poking around. While it was quiet all the way out here, there was no telling who could be walking around. For all they knew, the barons had eyes and ears in every crevice of the city. So, even with runs like these, they needed to be careful.

“Okay, you all know the plan?”

“Go in, find anything of value, get out before anyone notices,” a confident voice on the left replied, “Same as last time.”

“Good. Remember, only get enough that we can carry back and we’ll sort the rest later. If any of you find yourselves in trouble, signal me.”

The rest of them nodded, before the dropboarders all descended. The boards they were on began to fly closer to the ground, riding the chem ridden air as they all softly touched down. The space around them was ridden with trash. A dumping ground of the discarded wastes of metal and chemical alike. To those that ruled the Undercity, this was just discarded trash. Things that have lost both value and meaning.

Yet, to the Firelights that just arrived, this was a potential bounty. For what the barons called trash, they see it as a lifeline. Components to improve their equipment, tools that can help fix what is broken and supplies that can help the sick. Anything could be found down here if you knew where to look, and they knew what to look for.

“Good, no signs of trouble,” the Firelight leading the expedition said, glancing at a pocket watch as they pressed down on the crown and turned to the figures that accompanied him, “Five minutes. In and out. Any longer and we’re bound to attract attention. Scar, cover our exit. Rest of you, spread out. Let’s go.”

The rest of the crew that came with him nod, before starting to spread out and search the yard. The figure called Scar, who happened to be a Chirean, got on their board and ascended back into the air. The rest of the accomplices all dressed similarly to the one leading the group. Street clothes, makeshift weaponry and a pristine white make that obscured the face. While this might have been a salvage operation, all of them knew that things could go wrong in a heartbeat if left to chance.

One minute passes, and nothing seems afoot. By now, the others that accompanied him had found various nuts, bolts and scrap metal.

Two minutes pass, and someone finds a piece of broken chemtech that could possibly be repurposed. For what, it was unclear. But if the possibility exists, then it may work.

Three minutes passed, and some of the crew decided to get on their boards early to haul whatever they found back to the hideout.

Four minutes-.

“Hey, chief, over here.”

The sudden call drifted his attention away from the rest of the scrapyard and the pocket watch as the leader turned their head, “Found something?”

“Not something but… you might want to come look at this. Some of us found something that you need to see.”

The slight tinge of curiosity coursed through him as he put his pocket watch in the pocket of his jacket. There were already three other Firelights gathered in this one corner of the yard, so whatever they found must have been big. Was it something from a chembaron? Was it a chemtank suit?

The moment he got closer… every possible thing that he thought could be there was thrown out the window. “What the hell?”

It was just something that the Firelights had found, but someone. A bipedal figure with light amber fur instead of skin, hair that was the color of fire and strange clothes covered their form. From their head, a strange protrusion that looked like some form of horn, a tail that matched their hair and a patch on their clothes that looked like a blazing sun. There were no signs of injuries or scars and just at a glance, it definitely looked like someone that was not from here. The Undercity was no stranger to various folks that called it chem riddled alleys home, but this was a first.

To make things even stranger, they laid on the ground in front of what looked like a broken mirror. Not an ordinary mirror, but something that looked like the rich and elite of Topside would keep in their home, with decorative horses and everything. Definitely not something you would find in an abandoned junk heap out here on the edge of Bridgewaltz.

“What… is that?” One of the Firelights asked.

Another one, taller than some of the others, carefully walked behind the figure on the ground and gently placed a pair of fingers where the neck met the underside of the jaw. “Whatever it is, it has a pulse and it’s breathing.”

“Do you think it’s some kind of security guard? Some goon that the barons employed to keep watch?”

“Doubt it,” another Firelight replied, “Barons don’t give two shits about the trash they throw out, so why have someone look after it?”

“Maybe it’s a Shimmer addict trying to find a place to sleep?”

The chief looked back at the Firelight examining the body, before they shook their heads. “No, no signs of any malformations or changes to the skin. If they were an addict, there would be clearer signs.”

A brief chime was heard as the chief looked back into his pocket watch. The time had reached five minutes. They should’ve been out by now, but this wasn’t something that couldn’t simply be ignored.

“Chief, what’s the plan?” he heard the question from the Firelight by the figure on the ground. Everyone else waited, thinking of different responses.

Yet, to the chief, there was only one clear choice, “Pick them up. We’re bringing them back.”

“Chief, are you sure? What if-”

“Would you prefer to leave them here for a Chembaron to find and turn into a plaything of theirs?” the chief quickly retorted, “I know some of you have doubts, but if there is anything that we don’t do, it’s leave anyone to fend for themselves. Let’s go. We’re already out of time.”

As quickly as they arrived, the Firelights were quick to grab what they came for and ride out. The farther they left the Bridgewaltz behind, the more that the chief couldn’t stop thinking of the extra person they rescued.

There was no telling if this… creature worked for Silco or not. But, there would be time to ask them these questions once they woke up.

02- Wake Up Call

There was once a time where things were simpler.

Growing up was a cycle of things any child would go through at her age. She went to school, made friends, learned new things, studied for tests. The list went on and on. As her skills improved, ponies started to take notice. So much so that she landed upon the privilege to be taught by the best teacher that anypony could ask for. The princess and ruler of a whole kingdom, who was capable of the greatest of magical feats.

But the more that she tried to learn from her teacher, the more that she tried to impress them, and in order to gain such achievements, she required more power to do so.

Her teacher disagreed. Insisting that it wasn’t power that made things work the way that they did, but harmony. She would say that power alone could drive anypony to do great and terrible things if rushed. That if you dedicate time to foster the magic you know, then it will grow to new heights.

And yet, the power that she did have was not enough to satisfy her ambitions. She needed it now and could not wait any longer.

So, when she learned that there was an artifact that could allow to cross the threshold and reach places where new possibilities awaited, she turned her back on everything. Her teacher, her family… and the world that she knew. All in the pursuit of new power and possibilities.

And that was where things went wrong.

The moment she leaped through, she felt herself change in ways that she couldn’t even believe. Pain beyond measure as her body was morphed. Her muscles twist in ways that could be seen as impossible. Bones felt like they were on the edge of breaking and splitting apart. Every moment was agonizing as strands of light flew faster than stars.

All she could remember before passing out was the sound of glass breaking and her body hitting the ground.

The moment she began to feel herself wake up, everything was a blur. The floor under her was cold to the touch as she tried to open her eyes. A glare from above her head made it difficult to see. Instinctually, she raised a foreleg to try and block it so she could see-

Wait… this wasn’t a foreleg. And this wasn’t her front hoof.

Immediately she bolted away, staring at her newfound arms. She knew that certain species had these, like minotaurs, centaurs and the like. But this didn’t make sense. None of this made any sense! Why did she have them? Why did she have these weird claws at the end? Are they even claws? There aren't even any talons at the end-!

It was as she thought these things that a new question entered her mind. What else had possibly changed?

Her gaze shifted down, looking to see the clothes that were now on her body. Simple ones of an odd design… but a familiar patch on the sleeve. The mark of the sun. Her Cutie Mark, embroidered on the jacket. As she looked to the floor, the sight of hooves came as a bit of a relief. Even more so when she placed the newfound appendage at the end of her arm to her forehead and still felt her horn there. At least some things didn’t change.

Immediately, her attention shifted at a sound that echoed from the other side of this room. The shifting and grinding of metal pieces as a latch turned. It started to click into place what this was as the equivalent of a door on the other end swung open. Footsteps echoed throughout the room as the door closed and something approached.

“Well, look who’s awake.”

The figure’s voice was deep, but their appearance was unlike anything she had ever seen. The best she could describe it was some sort of Manehattan street wear, with a heavy coat over it. A mask of porcelain white in what almost looked like an owl stared at her.

Whoever they were… she couldn’t tell if they were here to harm her or not, as instinct kicked in. “W-Where am I-?”

The figure was quiet at first, before it folded its arms, “In a better place than where we found you, that’s for certain.”

That wasn’t an ideal answer. If anything, it just left her with more questions. “Who-?”

At this, the figure let out a deep sigh. Their mask covered their face, but their tone sounded rather irritated. “I’m someone who has questions that only you can answer. How you answer my questions determines how much I am willing to answer yours. So, think carefully before you answer and don’t try anything. Are we clear?”

Caught off guard, she felt anger rush through her veins. Just who exactly did they think they were? Did they even know who she was? Or what she was capable of? She wanted to lash out, but a piece of her held back that instinct.

Despite how rude they were being, they were probably the only… well, not a pony, but still, they were someone that could give them genuine answers. So all she did was nod her head and stayed on the floor.

“Okay, now that we have an understanding, let’s start with something basic,” the figure said, before mirroring a question that she had for them only a few moments prior, “Who are you?”

“I-I’m…” She paused, wondering if there were options. Surely, after the stunt she pulled, there would be others trying to find her. But, if what she was seeing and hearing meant anything… then maybe there was the chance that nothing followed her here. “Sunset.”

“Excuse me?”

“That’s my name,” she repeated, “Sunset Shimmer.”

A long pause filled the room, as if time came to a standstill. There weren't any retorts or follow up questions just yet, but the fact that a name could bring the room did not make the unicorn turned… whatever she was now, comfortable.

“Really? Shimmer?” the figure retorted. “Was that by choice or did your parents have a cruel sense of humor?”

“What the buck are you talking about?” Sunset was quick to snap back, “What’s wrong with Shimmer?”

Again, another long pause. But the figure on the other end seemed less annoyed by what she had to say and more baffled instead. “You don’t know about Shimmer? At all?”

“Other than it being my last name, no! What are you even talking about!?”

Once again, the mask on their face portrayed no emotions. But their tone was enough to say otherwise, “If you are certain that you haven’t heard of Shimmer, then either you are lying or you’re not from around here. So, if you’re not from the Undercity, then where are you from? One of the districts up in Topside?”

“What’s a Topside?” Sunset shook her head, “I’m from Canterlot.”

The figure, almost instinctively, shook their head, “Never heard of it. If anything, it sounds like a place in a children’s book.”

The nerve of this guy! She was being honest and their only responses were to question her name and to dismiss where she grew up as imaginary?! Who do they think they are!?

“So, Sunset, if you claim to be from somewhere else entirely than either Piltover or the Undercity, then what the hell were you doing, lying unconscious in the middle of a junk heap where we found you? People don’t exactly come down here as tourists and most people who just lie in the streets are either dead, asking to be robbed or just waiting to be snatched up by a Chembaron.”

That was a question that threw Sunset off guard. So many terms and names that would be familiar to them did not make sense here. Piltover? Undercity? Chem… baron? What were they even talking about? All she came here for was to find… What was it again?

Ah, that’s right. Power. She came looking for power. Something that she thought could have her capabilities rise to new heights. Sunset didn’t know the form it would take or what it could do, but as long as she had it, then she could go home and prove her teacher wrong. That she didn’t have to simply wait for it to come to her, but that she could take hold of it and make it hers-

“I’m… looking for something.”

“Hate to break it to you, but everyone’s looking for something down here. Some more than others,” the figure interrupted, “You’re going to need to be a little more specific.”

“I was going to, before you interrupted me,” Sunset snapped back, “But since we’re on this subject, I now need to ask you something in order for what I have to say to make sense.”

The figure paused in its movements, before crouching down to be at the same level as her. “Enlighten me then.”

“Do you know about magic?”

The figure let out a small sigh, “Obviously. Much of the ‘grand inventions’ on Topside are rumored to be powered by it. Other people in the Undercity claim to know magic, but I doubt that simple card tricks and predictions really count.”

Okay, that was at least something that she could work with. “What if I told you that I could use magic?”

A bit of a chuckle could be heard now, before the figure moved its arms and its ‘claws’ out the pockets in the jacket. From the edge of one pocket, the sight of a silver chain dangling freely. “I would need to see proof before I even think that what you are saying is remotely true or not. Because people these days say a lot of crap like that, but don’t have the means to back up their claims.”

All the more reason to prove otherwise.

Like almost every other time she practiced with magic, Sunset focused herself. While conjuring magic was as natural as breathing air to her, there was the matter of being in a body she was unfamiliar with. Still, if the same principles applied, then it should work. A levitation spell would be simple enough to do the trick, but what object could she-?

Then, her gaze shifted to the dangling silver chain that peaked out of this figure’s pocket… and an idea started to form.

With a deep breath, she focused. For a moment, Sunset thought that she needed to have the magic flow through the unfamiliar limbs she now possessed. But of all the things that had changed, the horn on her forehead was the same as always. As the familiar feeling of mana coursed through her horn, she reached out and tugged on the chain.

Before the figure could even turn to see what it was, the contents of what was inside now dangled in between them. An ornate pocket watch that has shown some age.

“What the-?” Almost instinctively, the figure tried to reach it. Only to stop when he realized that it wasn’t being held by anything except for a cyan colored glow. “How are you doing that?”

“I told you. Magic.” Sunset smirked, before gently floating it down back into the jacket pocket where it originally was. “Is that enough proof for you?”

With a deep groan, the figure sighed. “Okay, you proved your point there,”they admitted as Sunset stopped her spell, “But that still doesn’t answer what exactly you’re looking for here. The Undercity doesn’t exactly have much to offer, not with Silco in charge anyway.”

When she heard that, Sunset couldn’t help but notice that the tone of this figure had shifted. It was already tense earlier, but now it seemed full of hatred. “I know you'd rather hear me say answers to your questions, but I have to ask this. Who’s this ‘Silco’?”

At first, Sunset thought that her question was going to get ignored like with many of the other questions that she tried to ask earlier. Instead, the figure did something different. They stood up, back on… whatever they called their hooves and looked down at her.

“Walk with me. There’s something I think would be best for you to see.”

Reluctantly, Sunset tried to get up and follow the figure. The first couple of times she tried to walk on her rear legs, it almost led to her buckling over and falling on the floor. It wasn’t that it was impossible, but that the feeling of walking on two legs instead of four took a lot to get used to. But, if she had to do this to at least get some answers, then dear Celestia she had to try.

It took several attempts in order to get it right, but eventually, she left the room and followed the figure down a series of tight metal corridors. The creeks underhoof did little to set her at ease as they went higher.

After a few moments, that was when they arrived at what looked like a makeshift balcony attached to a large pipe. A faint glow was seen at first… but as she moved closer, the glow grew in size and intensity. And once she reached the balcony itself, the sight in front of her left her horrified.

In the distance from where they were was a city. One that was under the cracks of something larger. The buildings were makeshift of various materials and glowing lights could be seen everywhere along with the dense air.

But it wasn’t the spectacle that drew her attention. It was the horrors in the streets. Fights that broke out in the streets with the losers always ending up bloodied and bruised while others shivered in rags under the dim glow of street lamps. Some looked sick, with discolored skin as they tried to get hold of some violet colored liquid. And the moment they consumed it, the figure changed and violently smashed the proprietor’s head into the pavement like it was a grape.

This was nothing like the home she left behind. In fact, this was far worse.

Horrified, Sunset only had one question as she turned her gaze away from what she just witnessed back to the figure that brought her up here, “W-where am I?”

At this point, the figure moved their arm to the side of their head. A small click was heard as the mask loosened, before they slowly removed it from their face. In front of her stood a person much like the ones she saw below. Yet, this one had darkened skin, white frizzled hair and the markings of what looked like an hourglass as they looked at her. His voice now no longer muffled as she soon realized that they… were probably just as old as she was.

“This is the Undercity. At least, what it is now. This place used to be a home to be proud of, but one man hellbent on power changed all that and made things worse. And his name is Silco.”

He then pointed down, towards the one who now had blood on their hands as parts of their body glowed the same color as the substance they consumed. “Remember when you asked about what Shimmer was? Well, that is what that man injected himself with. Makes you feel as if you’re on top of the world. Power flows through you when you’re on it and at your lowest point when you can’t get enough. Under Silco’s watch, incidents like what you just saw have become normal. People would resort to killing each other and betraying their friends just to get that feeling again.”

It was as he spoke that a revelation was starting to set in for Sunset. If this was what she abandoned everything she knew to try and seize for herself, then it made her sick. It was power, yes… but it came at a cost and the toll it took on those who paid it was a fate that she did not want to face.

She wanted to leave. Just go back through the way she came and forget everything. This was just a nightmare. If only she could know where that mirror was and just leap back through.

“Where did you find me, exactly?” she asked, looking around again to see anything. Anything at all that can give her the slightest of hope that there was a way out.

“One of my friends found you in the Junk Heap outside the Bridgewaltz,” he pointed, not that far from the main hub of activity that everyone seemed to be moving in and out of, “You looked to be in rough shape, laying in a pile of shards from a broken mirror. Luckily for you, you got off unscathed somehow.”

And like that, whatever hope that Sunset had sank, tears forming in her eyes as she dropped to her knees. Her way out was gone. Her way back to the life she once had and to the ponies who cared deeply for her, shattered. Sunset had made her choice to leave in pursuit of power… and now, she was coming face to face with the consequences of that choice.

Reality was now setting in. An all too familiar feeling that the one she was talking to seemed to recognize. “You okay?”

“N-no,” she muttered, wiping the tears off her face as a new feeling started to boil. Anger, “No, I’m not. What I thought I could find here… sickens me now. The way that I came here is gone. I’ve been cut off from my family and the place I call home! I’m stuck here… all because I made a stupid decision and thought I knew better than anypony else!”

For a moment, everything went silent. Nothing but the sound of birds flying, steam released from vents and the murmurs of the crowd. The boy watched as Sunset’s emotions were released, hands in pockets as he looked at the pocket-watch. Watching the hands on the clock move with each passing second as she let out her frustrations.

Then, after several moments passed, he sighed and sat down next to her. Something that caught her off guard. Even more so when he started to speak. “I know how you’re feeling.”

The remark threw her for a loop. She only just met this kid a short while ago, and now at her lowest, he’s acting like he knows how painful this is?! How-?

“It’s the feeling of wanting to go back. The feeling of ‘if you had the chance to turn back the clock and change your fate, you would do something different to avoid where you are now’,” he said, hand on the pocket watch, “Isn’t it?”

It… was that feeling. The feeling of wanting to travel back in time to make sure that the events that brought her didn’t happen. The ‘What If’ of things being different and where she could be if she just listened to her teacher and didn’t act on impulse. But how would somepony she only just met know about something like this?

“When I was a kid growing up here, there was someone that we looked to for anything. His name was Vander and he was kind of a father figure to kids like us. Someone we look to for guidance and who helped keep the peace between our home and Topside,” he said, pointing to a crack in the earth above their heads as a faint glow can be seen from the night sky, “On the night that Silco took control, he was the first one to die. For nights, I just thought that if there was a way that Vander was still with us and none of this would’ve happened, that’s what I would’ve wanted.”

His eyes shifted from what was above them to back to his hands as he held onto the chain of the pocket watch. “Then, one night, I remembered something he told me. It didn’t matter how much time I had in the world. What matters the most is how I use it. Vander spent much of his time helping people here and now rather than being stuck in the past or fantasizing about the future. The people that need help are here in the present, so the best way to use my time is for us to help whoever I can no matter who they might be.”

Sunset had a feeling of where this talk might be going, “Why would you want to help me? You haven’t even told me your name-”

The boy, almost realizing this, let out a sigh before giving a simple response. “Ekko.”

Sunset blinked, caught off guard and confused by the response, “Huh?”

“You asked earlier, so I’m telling you now,” He said, “My name’s Ekko.”

At least that answered one question. But still, there was another one that floated over her head. But before she could reiterate the question, Ekko was quick to continue, “As for why I want to help… I don’t really know you or understand your situation too well, but from the way I see it, you have two options on what to do now. Either try your luck out in the lanes with how bad things already are. Or you can help us try to change things for the better.”

Now, puzzled, she had a follow up question, “Wait… us?”

“Well, yeah.” It looked like he was going to continue, but part of the way through, a different idea came to mind as Ekko got back up on his feet, “You know what? It might be better if I just showed you instead. Follow me.”

As they made their way back down through the winding tunnels and corridors, Sunset couldn’t help but feel that there was something different about where they were headed now. When she first woke up and followed Ekko out to the overlook above this ‘Undercity’, she thought that where they were was like an underground maze. Winding tunnels with secret doors and passages around every corner. A place to hide or end up easily getting lost in if you’re not careful.

In a way, it almost reminded her of Canterlot Castle with how big it was. Though, Sunset didn’t quite remember the castle or her old teacher being as gloomy and dimly lit as where she was now.

“Alright, we’re almost here. Just need to get the door open,” the boy in front of her said, grasping hold of the handles of a metal door in front of them, “Though, fair warning, it’s going to get rather bright in here. You might want to shield your eyes for a moment.”

Sunset didn’t have the chance to follow through on Ekko’s suggestion, for the moment he cracked open the door, light immediately filled the room and hit her in the face. Instinctively, she raised her arm to shield herself as the door laid open and she heard the sound of his footsteps go through to the other side. Thoughts started to bounce around in her head as what could be inside that would warrant so much sunlight down here.

As soon as her eyes adjusted, she found herself staring at that exact answer. “Woah…”

What stood in front of her was a massive full grown tree in the center of what looked almost like a community. Various homes and structures were built not just around the tree, but also on it as a couple of people raced around the tree on boards that glided on air. Children were playing with one another, while other figures acknowledged and greeted Ekko as the two of them walked.

The more she looked at it, the more that she began to realize that this wasn’t just a tree. It was a home of sorts, “Did you… do all of this?”

“Most of it,” Ekko replied as the two of them ascended a stairwell on the side of the tree to a balcony that overlooked the space below, “To be honest, we were just as surprised when we realized that this tree survived despite being all the way down here. But then it sort of clicked. Because it’s one thing to give people a place to call home, but it’s another thing entirely to give them hope of a better tomorrow.”

Sunset looked down at the passersby, some of whom waved to her and Ekko as they carried on with what they were doing, “So, these… people,” she paused, trying to get familiar with the new phrase she just heard him say, “Did you rescue all of them, like you did with me?”

“You could say that,” he replied, leaning back on the railing as he put his foot against a support post, “Many of those who we brought in are either orphans that lost their parents, whether that be because of enforcers from Topside or some other reason, or patients recovering from Shimmer addiction. We try to tend and take care of them the best we can.”

That was something that she was caught off guard by, but that was followed by a new question that surfaced in her mind, “And who is the ‘Us’ that you were referring to earlier?”

“You probably have seen a bunch of us already who have masks like these or ride around on dropboards?” Ekko mentioned, holding up his own that was clipped onto his waist while the two dropboarders that flew by earlier landed at the base of the tree. “Well, we are called-”

Right before he could say the name, a loud noise echoed from the base of the tree that caught the attention of both of them and everyone within earshot that was down on the ground level.

“FIRELIGHTS!!”

A cacophony of cheers and cries echoed from all around as small green lights began to fly around. It was beautiful to watch them glow and dance in the air, so much so that it took a while for Sunset to notice what these lights were until one of them landed on the railing that Ekko was leaning on.

“Heh, it seems like Scar beat me to it.” He chuckled, watching the Firelight that flew over to them look around for a moment and take off in another direction, before returning his gaze back to Sunset. “But yes, that’s what we call ourselves.”

As she watched, Ekko pushed himself away from the railing and started to walk towards the trunk of the tree as he reached for what looked like the handle of a door, “Now, I do believe I answered all your questions-”

“Actually,” Sunset spoke up, turning to look back at him. “There’s one more thing I want to ask.”

The boy paused, turning away from the tree and the handle to look towards her, “Really? Then ask away.”

“How does someone join the Firelights?”

With that, the boy savior and leader of the Firelights stretched couldn’t help but smirk. Things have been difficult these last few years. But, perhaps with the help of a newcomer and a few gifts of their own, this is what they needed to turn the tide in their favor.

“I’d say at this point, you already are one.”

03- Torch and Burn

There was once a time that all she could think about was being the best. That she wanted to be the greatest and to have all eyes on her. To be praised by not just family and friends, but those who recognized her.

That all changed once she made a choice that sealed her fate and found herself in a playground of a city that played by a different set of rules.

While she might’ve found a new place to stay and individuals that she could put some amount of trust in, the fact of the matter was that what she once craved and sought out for at home was the easiest way to ask for trouble.

Of course, it didn’t mean that she couldn’t put her trust in anybody. Far from it. For the thing is, many might have the same thoughts as you do. However, given their own circumstances, vocalizing such thoughts could do more harm than good and attract unwanted attention.

She did not really think that the lessons from her old teacher would apply in a place like this. But, as it turned out… having a friend or two might provide insight into things that even you can’t fully comprehend.

After all, she was told early on that sometimes the right person in the wrong place can make all the difference in the Undercity.

At least, that was what she hoped.

If there is one thing that Sunset learned in the last eight months of being in Zaun, it’s to always pay attention to your surroundings.

No matter how many times she had been down here, there was always either something or someone hiding where you least expected it. Even though she had a few tricks to blend in, one wrong move and the next thing you know, the way back home is filled with various crooks and chempunks waiting for the opportunity to gang up on you. Which was always ideal to have at least something to defend yourself with.

Today’s trip was straightforward. She knew where she was going, who to speak to and what she was after. Anyone else can just buzz off and anyone who tried to get in her way would be given a friendly reminder to not do it again.

The place in question that she was going to was an old pawn shop tucked away in a corner out of sight from the center of Zaun. Ekko told her that it used to be a place where he worked when he was younger for a friend of Vander’s named Benzo. A good person who looked after him, but was killed by Silco’s men on the night of his takeover. Though, since then, a new proprietor had taken up residence in the shop. Someone not from either Topside or the Undercity, who kept a lot of what was inside intact, while adding a few new things into the mix.

Many folks around here, including the Firelights, were skeptical of this person for various reasons. And for a time, Sunset was too. But, much to her own surprise, the services that they provided actually helped the Firelights get out of a series of jams when the Chembarons were catching onto their activities. So, she had grown to slowly trust them.

Which made things all the stranger when she came by this afternoon, only to find the shop to be open… but someone completely different at the counter as the bell on the door rang.

“Huh? Wha-?”

Instead of the usual person at the counter, there was someone else entirely. Young girl, neon green hair in two big pigtails and standard street clothes. Not to mention she looked very tired.

“Oh, shoot! A customer! Sorry, I didn't mean to be sleeping on the job.” The girl immediately shot upright, trying to straighten herself up and look presentable as Sunset walked in and closed the door. “Is there something I can help you with today?”

At first, Sunset did not know what to think of this. Her immediate thought was that the place was robbed, but aside from a few odds and ends, nothing looked to be taken. Was it possible that this girl… worked here?

“Uh, yeah. I’m here to pick up something,” she said, plainly, “Is Madame Verask here?”

Immediately, the girl’s eyes widened a little. “Oh, you must be that favorite customer she was expecting! I’m sorry, but she left earlier this morning. Took a few things with her and asked me to keep watch while she’s gone.”

She… left? No no, that can’t be right. In the time that she knew her, there were very few occasions where she would leave the shop. And if she did, there would be some sort of advance notice. This… seemed suspicious. “And why is it that she left?”

“Well, she apparently got an invitation to attend the celebrations up in Topside tomorrow. You know, Progress Day and all that.” the girl behind the counter replied.

That… was a new one. In the time that she had been here, Sunset had once never heard of anything called ‘Progress Day’. She could only assume that it was a celebration of some kind, based on how this girl was talking about it. But the purpose of such a day or anything else in between is something that she was having difficulty wrapping her head around.

Nevertheless, Sunset chose to set that mental thought aside and look back at the girl. “Okay, last question. You said that she was expecting me?”

“Well, yeah. To put it in her words, ‘She always comes to the shop at a certain time and asks for the same thing’. Said that you even paid for everything in advance. The only difference today is who’s behind the counter helping you. Speaking of which, let me go bring out the order she prepared for you.”

Jumping away from the counter, the girl went into the back room. Sunset could hear the sound of bottles clinking in the back against one another and several things moved around. A couple things hit the floor, but thankfully did not break as she patiently waited for her to return.

When she did though, it was faster than expected… and she swore that she saw bits of electricity circulate from the pigtails.

“Here we are. One crystalline flask. Bit of a rare commodity to find these days,” the girl said, sliding over a tincture with a red liquid inside. Not only that, but alongside the flask was a folded piece of paper. “Madame Verask also emphasized that you should read the instructions first. That way you don’t end up getting sick.”

Taking both into her hands, Sunset smiled as she started to walk to the door. “Thanks, uh… sorry, I never got your name.”

“Oh right, forgot about that. It’s Zeri.”

“Sunset,” she replied, slipping the flask into her pocket before pushing on the door, “Stay safe now, alright?”

She didn’t even hear the response from Zeri as she closed the door. As she walked away, it wasn’t the flask she carried that she was concerned about. For her immediate focus was on the paper. Unfolding it several times before reading what was written.

And what was written was enough to have her hasten her return.

“We may have a problem.”

Those five words were enough to have Ekko stop what he was doing almost immediately as he turned to see that Sunset was back. He knew that she had left earlier to collect information. However, he did not expect for her to return shortly after leaving about an hour ago. Nor to sound very concerned.

“What sort of problem? You need to be a bit more specific.”

“What do you know about the Sludgerunners?” Sunset asked, pulling up a chair by Ekko’s workstation as he set something back down. A pair of mechanical orbs that had some alchemical components.

“What’s so important about them? They’re a company that mass produces chem-tech for people to waste their gold on led by a baron whose ego is inflated by the chems in their veins. Even if the Enforcers tried to shut it down, they wouldn’t know where to look to find the place. Why?”

“Well, if the information that I received is accurate, which I doubt that it isn’t… they might be expanding beyond the Undercity.”

Immediately, Ekko’s attention was fixed on her, changing from confused to immediately concerned in a heartbeat. “You’re sure about this?”

“If you don’t believe me, have a look for yourself.” Sunset replied, handing the leader of the Firelights the ‘instructions’ that were given to her. At first glance, these looked like standard medical instructions. But to those who knew how to read between the lines, it was quick to see the message that was hidden underneath.

A cipher that very few know the code for.

Sludgerunners are working overtime, moving large batches of Shimmer on Silco’s orders. Might’ve found clients on Topside.

Ship’s coming in at Wharfside Docks tomorrow, crack of dawn. Possibly using the Progress Day celebration as a cover to smuggle it in.

“Shit,” he cursed, gritting his teeth. If there was even a remote possibility that Silco was trying to expand his production, then any attempts they have made to try and slow down his operations would be rendered useless-

It was as he was thinking these things that Sunset spoke up, “You know I’ve been around a bit, but this is the first time I’ve heard about this ‘Progress Day’ or whatever it’s called. Mind bringing me up to speed?”

A deep sigh followed, along with a nod from the leader of the Firelights, “It’s a big festival up in Topside. From my understanding, it’s a giant national holiday dedicated to the ‘founding of the City of Progress’ and extending a hand of friendship to the rest of the world. Though, where most people see a hand of friendship, many Zaunites see it as them extending a middle finger at us.”

“So these guys are using a holiday for illegal smuggling? If this is on Topside’s turf, wouldn’t the enforcers rat it out? I would think that such a holiday would have lots of security.”

“Not if some of the Enforcers are on Silco’s payroll,” Ekko shook his head, “Besides, out of all the things we do, trusting Pilties to keep their word is not one of them.”

Sunset instantly recognized the look on his face. She had seen it time and time again over the course of her stay. The look of someone coming up with something in the moment and preparing to act on it immediately. “You got a plan, then?”

He then looked back to her, before taking the project he was working on and stuffing them into his coat. “How good are you on your dropboard?”

“If you mean if I’ve been practicing, I’ve been keeping up with it. Why-?”

“Because we got a shipment to hit,” Ekko said, before reaching for his mask and strapping it over his head as it sealed in place, “And this time, you’re coming along for the ride.”

If there was any way to describe what Sunset was now doing, insane would not even be enough to do it justice

While it was true that the Firelights did hit and run attacks on Silco’s operations, this one was different for multiple reasons. For one thing, most of what they did was on territory that they knew the inner workings of. The Firelights knew every nook and cranny of the Undercity, from where the chem-barons operated, places to avoid and also where to hide in case things go south. Topside, or Piltover if you want to use the official name, was a place that only some were familiar with, but was always considered dangerous territory.

The other reason why this was considered dangerous was what would happen if this was ignored. Anything with Silco was bad… but if there was a possibility that he somehow had contacts on Topside, then all that they have been doing to cease his operations would’ve been for nothing.

The Firelights needed to send a clear message. And it needed to be done now. Which brings her to where she is now. Inside a large pipe that connected the Undercity to Piltover, looking over the same docks that were listed in the tip that they got and seeing their quarry pull into port.

“Ship’s almost docked,” One of the Firelights that was on lookout duty called down to Ekko and the boarding crew..

“How many on board?”

“From the looks of it, alongside some kind of cargo inspector, there’s two people. Definitely bearing the marks of those on Silco’s payroll.”

The moment that was confirmed, the leader of the Firelights turned to the group that gathered with him, “Okay, listen up. The plan is simple. Once we hit the deck, we only have a limited window of time. We need to be in and out in five minutes. We are only here to deal with the cargo, not to pick a fight against the people on board. Are we clear?”

Most of the Firelights, including Sunset, nodded as they donned the masks over their faces. Some of them happened to have weapons alongside their equipment as everyone started to pull the dropboards off their backs.

“Alright. Everyone board up. We go on my mark.”

Even though Sunset was trying to remain focused, what they were doing was all very new to her and she and the other Firelights inched their boards out of the drainage pipe they hid in. Normally, her expertise was providing the information needed to conduct operations like this and let Ekko and the others carry it out. Now, she’s part of the crew that carries this out. To say that part of her felt nervous was an understatement. However, Sunset couldn’t let those thoughts bother her.

Not when it was time to act.

“Go!”

Immediately, the eight of them descended and swarmed the ship. Their sudden arrival was quick to overwhelm those on board as Ekko took initiative. The second he hit the deck, he hurled two spheres at the guards on the ship and the second they made contact, they were encased in a crystalline substance that rapidly expanded.

The second the guards were down, Sunset and the rest of the Firelights joined them on deck. “Remember our timeline. Five minutes. If we’re here longer, then our friends up here will be free of their bindings.”

Everyone nodded, but it was Sunset that was first to act. With a quick motion, and a faint cyan glow of magic, she pulled the lid off of a barrel next to her. What was inside was enough to make her sick. “Hey, over here. Found something.”

It was Shimmer. Not just vials of the substance, but a full barrel. And given how many barrels there were up here, this was not a good sign.

“The fuck? Have you ever seen this much Shimmer being moved at once?”

To the leader of the operation, this discovery confirmed his worst fears. “Dammit, they are trying to expand.” quickly, he motioned to a pair of Firelights that just joined them, before pointing down at the deck “Check for more below. We need to burn it all, now.”

On her end, Sunset immediately got to work. With each motion of her hands, more barrels were opened, ready to be spilled if necessary. Though, it wasn’t all Shimmer barrels that were up here. Something that she noticed when, out of the corner of her eye, she came across a wooden box tucked behind a few barrels.

The second she popped it open, Sunset couldn’t help but be surprised by what was inside. She was expecting Shimmer, but instead found something different. Weapons of various types from daggers to firearms and everything in between. More than likely something in case the crew needed to defend themselves at a moment’s notice-

BOOM!

Immediately, all the Firelights ceased what they were doing and looked to one another, “The hell was that?”

Smoke began to emerge from the lower deck as all the Firelights tensed up. They were certain that they had security handled, but something was coming that they did not anticipate. The hatch flipped open as the smoke got thicker. Footsteps were getting closer as the smoke made it difficult for them to see all around them. Some of the Firelights were already reaching for the weapons they carried, while Sunset and Ekko just held their ground.

They did not know who or what was coming, and that was the part that concerned all of them.

That is… until Ekko realized who it might be. “Oh shit… It’s her.”

“Wha-?”

The second the smoke cleared, all they saw was a teenage girl. Blue hair, long braids and clothes that looked together as if they were patched together from a carnival tent. All looking towards them with a curious glance.

“Hi.”

A curious glance one moment, before shifting to full on murderous.

In the blink of an eye, something was thrown at two other Firelights on the deck, clinging to their masks as they fell overboard. Two sudden explosions went off as the blue haired girl continued to go forward, drawing a weapon off their hip and twirling it around their finger. As Ekko and Scar engaged her in combat, Sunset tried to use her magic to disarm the assailant. However, she was too quick on her feet and Sunset was only able to pull her firearm away to an angle where a fatal shot at Scar’s head turned into a miss.

From the other side of the ship, Ekko was already at work on an escape plan. Spilling the open barrels of Shimmer onto the deck, he gave a whistle out to one other Firelight that was with them. The second they lit a torch, the assailant was immediately onto them, attempting to try and grab it out of their hands as they knocked their mask off of their face.

It was only then that, as Sunset helped Scar get back on his feet, that she watched this attacker hesitate. Whatever was driving them before had stopped as the blue haired girl stared directly at this Firelight with the torch. Their grip hesitating as she stared at them.

“V-Vi?”

Seeing the Shimmer pool at their feet, Sunset said the first thing that came to mind as the Firelight this girl was staring at looked towards her.

“Drop the torch! Quick!”

Immediately, they did… and the sparks spewing from it immediately ignited as violet flames burned all around them. With another twist of her wrist, Sunset tried to use her magic to loosen the grip this girl had on their comrade. It was enough for them to pull their wrist away and run.

BANG

“NO!”

Sunset could only watch as the Firelight she tried to save dropped dead on the deck. Shot through the heart as flames burned everywhere. Ekko scrambled over to the body, but there was nothing he could do. Glaring as he stared down the monster that killed them.

“Scar? Scar, what is he doing?”

The Chirean looked up, before looking back to her, “Get off the ship. Now.”

Without any hesitation, she got up. Using a rope thrown over the side of the vessel, she quickly descended before getting on her dropboard. She did not even turn to look back as the sound of gunfire erupted in a flurry behind her. Sunset had only one goal in mind and that was to get out of dodge.

Even though they completed what they set out to do today, it came at a cost. And it was unclear as to what to do next.

04- The Jinx

There was once a time where if something were to happen, she would know what to do in the moment. Every problem had an obvious solution. For every test, there was a way to overcome it.

However, one of the major issues she would have was when something unexpected was tossed in. Something to catch her off guard, make her rethink the approach she was taking. Even worse when such a thing was being hidden from her.

Such assumptions were what led to her going down the path she took… and what led to where she was now. She thought that with this, she could move forward if those who asked her to join their cause were straight with her from the beginning.

The attack on the cargo vessel taught her otherwise.

The moment Sunset landed back in the Undercity, she chose not to return to the hideout as quickly. Multiple thoughts were on her mind, trying to process all that happened. Everything in the intel was right from the shipment to when it was supposed to happen, but in the end, everything went completely wrong. Ekko, Scar and her were the only ones who survived.

All because of one variable. Something they could not account for… and for some reason, Ekko knew about them.

But that could be asked about at a later point. Right now, Sunset had to find out more about who this assailant was. For if they were with Silco, she needed to be better prepared for someone that was that unpredictable.

Carefully moving through the sidestreets, she found herself back at where this started the day before. Back at the pawn shop, where she first got the tip. The proprietor might not be available, but there was still another friendly face.

“Welcome to-”

The kid from the other day, Zeri, was a bit taken aback. She honestly did not expect anyone right now, nevertheless one of her customers that was back so soon. Though, there was one thing that was different from yesterday with today’s meeting. And unfortunately for Sunset, she only realized this after the fact.

“You… look much different from when I saw you yesterday.”

A single look in the glass counter had Sunset realize that she forgot to use the spell she cast the other day. The one that helped her blend in with the denizens of Zaun. It must’ve escaped her memory on the mad dash to get as far away from that as possible.

“Aw shit. Look, I’m-”

“So you’re a Vastayan as well? Like Madame Verask?”

That was… not exactly how she thought the conversation would go, but Zeri’s curiosity seemed to afford her a way out of having to give a much longer than necessary explanation. After all, it’s what the owner of the shop believed as well when they met for the first time. Might as well just run with it.

“Y-yeah, but I'd rather keep that to myself. Very few people know about who I really am and I would like to keep it that way, if you don’t mind.”

“Say no more,” the assistant shopkeep replied, before moving out from behind the counter, “So, what exactly made you hurry over here so quickly that you forgot to… well, hide this?”

“There was something I wanted to ask about. Not an item, but information,” Sunset replied, “Though, since Madame Verask isn’t here, I can just come back later-”

“She’s probably going to be out for the rest of the day,” the girl replied back, before pulling out a chair and taking a seat, “Besides, I was born and raised here in Zaun. If you have a question about the city, then I can certainly try to give you an answer.”

Despite all personal reservations for not wanting to rope this kid in on what she and the other Firelights, Sunset wasn’t sure if there were any other options. It was either ask Zeri or try her luck at some place like The Last Drop, which was full of chempunks that probably worked for one of the Barons or Silco. She needed an answer and then got out of here just as quickly.

The choice was clear… though, it didn’t mean she had to tell her the full story.

“Earlier today, I was with some others. We were minding our own business, and just as we were having fun… this one girl shows up. Long blue hair, tied in braids and dressed like she was part of a circus. Do you know of anyone like that?”

Immediately, Zeri’s face looked like any color that was in there was flushed out. She seemed to be herself when Sunset first started talking. But as the question was asked, any sort of thought she had was gone and only one immediate question was answered in return.

“You ran into the Jinx? How are you still alive?”

Sunset was unsure how to think of her response. Part of her was somewhat relieved that she knew who she was referring to… but the way she answered the question made her concerned.

“The Jinx?”

“You haven’t-?” Zeri paused, before letting out a deep breath as she pinched the bridge of her nose. It looked like there was more she wanted to say, but chose to set that aside to answer the question, “The Jinx is someone that no one wants to run into down here. Rumor has it that she was once one of the kids that was raised by Vander before things went off the deep end. Now, it’s believed that the Jinx is somehow tied to Silco. Which I personally wouldn’t be sure as to why, all things considered.”

“Okay, that… makes some sense,” Sunset replied, trying to process this in her mind, “But what was this about me still being alive?”

“Because anywhere she goes, bodies are left in her wake. Picture this, you and your friends are working as guards protecting something and your employer happens to have gotten on Silco’s bad side. Your employer might have all the best people, yourself included, protecting that thing, but if the Jinx shows up, then there’s no chance you’re going to remain alive.”

The living embodiment of an actual Jinx. Dear Celestia, that’s horrifying to think about.

“Though, that begs the question,” Zeri narrowed her eyes, “What the hell were you doing that would involve The Jinx being there?”

It was at this moment Sunset realized she might have fucked up… badly. There was no telling how much this girl knew about her previous dealings with the owner of the establishment. Hell, she probably didn’t even know that she was talking to a Firelight. So, the only course of action that she could take was to try and answer her question with one of her own.

“How much did Madame Verask tell you about me?”

“Outside of your visits to the shop, not much. If anything, she made you sound like someone who would just mind their own business. How does that even relate to-?”

Sunset let out a slow breath, before looking at the girl. “If I am going to tell you the answer to your question, then you need to promise me that we keep this between us. No one else needs to know and if anyone else finds out, there’s going to be trouble for not just the two of us, but Madame Verask as well. Are we clear?”

Silence drifted across the small shop. Zeri, unsure of what to make of this, just stared back and raised a confused eyebrow. “Okay, this is getting weird. But sure, I guess.”

“Good, because you’re going to see why in just a moment.”

As Sunset raised a finger, the same cyan colored magic she was all too familiar with circulated at the tip. Motioning her finger, she moved it through the air much like a painter would carefully glide a brush against a canvas. It did not take much effort, but what she was creating was immediately recognizable as it took the shape of an hourglass.

And when she was done, things began to finally click into place.

“W-wait. You’re… a Firelight?”

“Mhm,” Sunset nodded, before swiping her hand and having the symbol disappear instantly, “Unlike some of the chempunks associated with the barons, we rather not attract attention to ourselves. Which is why Madame Verask has been rather helpful and also rather discreet about the business we conduct.”

“So wait, my boss knows that you’re with them?”

A small chuckle from the Firelight could be heard as Sunset nodded, “Indeed. Funny enough, she was able to read me like an open book the first time we met.”

“And what does she provide?” Zeri now asked, baffled with the information that she was learning, “It can’t be just antiques and rare finds-”

“Oh she does provide that, but more to conceal the rest,” Sunset explained, “She passes along any rumors and word on the street to us.”

It took the girl a rather quick moment to wrap her head around what she was just told. But even with such information, it did not answer the burning question that started this particular exchange between them. “And this relates to the Jinx because-?”

“Because when we tried to follow through on a tip provided by Madame Verask this morning, things went completely wrong when we realized that the Jinx was there. It was something we couldn’t prepare for and a few friends of ours lost their lives because of it.”

Silence echoed throughout the shop as Zeri stared at her, the realization sinking in quickly. “Oh shit.”

“Yeah,” Sunset exhaled, deeply as she looked back at her, “I’m lucky to still be here. But, considering who I work with, I came here wanting to know more about the Jinx just in case we encounter her again. That way we could be better prepared for her.”

“If I have to be honest, I don’t think any amount of preparation would have prepared you for her. If her trail of destruction is anything to go by, she fits the definition of a loose cannon.”

“Still have to try at least,” The Firelight said, before turning to the door, “I have to go. Remember what we agreed?”

The girl in the shop nodded, a brief flicker from the lights above her head. With a deep breath, Sunset channeled her magic as the spell encased her current form and shifted it back to what it was once before. The human appearance that was seen when she met Zeri the first time. But before she could even open the door, the Firelight… hesitated.

“Thanks again, Zeri. I really appreciate it.”

Some of the color that had disappeared from Zeri’s face before had started to now return as she nodded. “No problem. Just… stay safe, alright? Madame Verask would chew me out if something happened to you.”

The Firelight nodded, stepping out of the shop as into the streets. Only to have a figure that brazenly walked past her, bumping into her shoulder. Turning to look back, she could only make out the sight of a woman who was only a few feet taller than her. Pink hair, blue eyes and a red jacket that looked to have recently been taken off of a clothesline. Right ear pierced as the figure only turned to glance at her briefly.

Brief enough to see a simple tattoo under the right eye. With a single word that sent a brief shiver down Sunset’s spine.

VI

The second she saw that, a splitting headache ravaged her mind. Images- no… memories that were not hers flooded her mind. Trying to comprehend what she was seeing and not get lost in it as she staggered into an alley.

There was the sight of an apartment. Running through the streets on Topside from Enforcers. Various images in quick succession, with one of them oddly looking like a younger version of Ekko in the same pawn shop that she just left, playing through her head at rapid speed. The last one that she could remember was the side of a warehouse, smoke on the air and interior up in flames. With a blue haired girl crying and asking a single question.

‘Why did you abandon me!?’

‘BECAUSE YOU’RE A JINX!!’

Immediately, Sunset snapped back to reality, forcing her down onto the ground. She felt the overwhelming urge to throw up as she had trouble trying to catch her breath.

“The buck was that?” she wondered, looking down at her hands. Her magic had never acted like this before. So why was it doing so now?

No, that didn’t matter. First, she needed to get back. Then, she can figure that out.

Sitting at the desk in his workshop, Ekko was trying to focus his attention on anything else right now. While the mission up on Topside was considered a success, their victory came at a price. Five of their companions, including a close confidant named Eve, lost their lives and Sunset had not been seen since they escaped the docks. Scar insisted that he told her to run, but Ekko couldn’t help but worry that she might’ve gotten herself into further trouble. If it wasn’t enforcers, it could be the barons or Silco.

His concentration was interrupted once more from the project he was working on as he heard a knock on the door. Setting his stopwatch and tinkering tools down, Ekko walked over to the door. He already had to talk to several people about what happened and who was not coming back, and in the back of his mind, he thought this was the same thing.

Though, much to his own shock, he found none other than Sunset herself waiting at the door, “Holy shit, you had me worried. Where-”

Before he could even finish, Sunset welcomed herself in and looked directly at him with a fierce glance in her eyes, “We need to talk. You got a moment?”

Immediately, Ekko closed the door and locked it, before following Sunset as she dispelled the magic that was used to disguise herself. Some of the paint and injuries from the battle earlier stained her fur as she looked straight at him. Unsure about what it is that she wanted to discuss and why she looked this way.

“Sunset, where were you-?”

“After we split off, I didn’t want anyone that would possibly pursue me to be led back here. So, I went into town,” she replied, folding her arms, “While I was there, I found out a bit about the girl that attacked us. The Jinx.”

The moment the name was said, Ekko tensed up. In Zaun, any mention of the Jinx, no matter how small, was a bad omen. Encounters with her always led to carnage and bloodshed, leaving almost no survivors and those who did live just emphasized the point to avoid the Jinx at all costs.

“Look, I’m sorry if I didn’t tell you about her. I don’t think when we boarded that ship that anyone expected her-”

“I understand that. But I can’t help but think that there was more that I could’ve done to help. That way, we didn’t have to put extra faces on the mural,” She paused, taking a moment to compose her thoughts. “There was one moment during that encounter that still doesn’t make sense to me.”

That had Ekko pause, “What do you mean?”

“You remember when you told Eve to light the torch, right?” The question was answered by a nod from Ekko, which Sunset took as a sign to continue, “Well, there was a moment where the Jinx just… froze after she knocked off her mask. And she called her by some name.”

“What was the name?”

“She said something along the lines of… ‘Vi’.”

Immediately, Sunset watched as Ekko’s eyes widened for the briefest of moments. A sign of recognition that was immediately extinguished as he shook his head. “No, that wouldn’t make sense.”

“You know that name?”

The boy sighed deeply, before looking back towards her, “I do. She was one of the kids that Vander raised and one of my friends growing up. Bravest among all of us and knows how to throw a mean punch, but there’s no way that she’s around now. She vanished on the night that Vander died. Many of us assumed that she died alongside him because she was trying to rescue him from Silco.”

At that moment, something clicked in Sunset’s brain. Even though they were talking about two separate people, Sunset couldn’t help but focus on one detail that was the same with what Zeri told her and what Ekko was saying now. That this ‘Vi’ and the Jinx were both raised by the same person.

Then there was the woman she bumped into on the way out. The one who had the same name as a tattoo on her cheek. And what happened afterwards

“There’s… something else that happened on the way back. Something that I am still trying to process and I was hoping you can help me make sense of it.”

“Um, okay?” He said, confused by the request, “What sort of thing?”

“Well, I was coming back from finding out more about the Jinx from the same place I found out about the ship that I bumped into somebody. And when I did, my magic went… I don’t know if haywire is the right term, but it definitely reacted in some way. I kept seeing memories or something that weren’t even mine. I think I even saw a kid that looked like you at one point, just much younger.”

“The fuck?”

“I know, it’s bucking weird,” she retorted, “I don’t know what happened, but my magic has never acted this way before in the time I’ve been here.”

At this, Ekko started to scratch the back of his head. “I don’t really know, but maybe it depends on something else? What did this person look like? Do you remember their appearance?”

“Blue eyes, pink hair that swayed to one side while part of her head was shaved. Some tattoos, red jacket, bandages on her hands,” the mage recalled, trying to not forget a single detail, “The one thing that stood out was one of the tattoos under their right eye… was the exact same thing I heard the Jinx say on that cargo ship. Vi-”

The door immediately burst open catching the two of them off guard as Scar was in the doorway, “Chief, we’ve got a problem in town.”

Both Sunset and Ekko looked back at one another, beyond confused. Both of them were extremely careful finding their way back, so what the hell was going on now? “What kind of problem?”

“Someone just stormed into the Last Drop and picked a fight with Sevika.”

05- Observe and Report

There was once a time where things that happened in the past stayed in the past. Many would wish not to relive horrid memories or reopen old wounds, especially if someone is believed to be gone. A handful of people would tell you that if you are consumed by the past, then you cloud your vision and find yourself unable to see what is directly in front of you. The same could be said for those who look too far ahead into the future… and not be able to see what they might trip over in front of them.

Though, what exactly happens when the past is all you have to go off of? That you’ve been isolated for so long and found the chance to come back… only to learn that everything you once knew has been turned upside down. Everything you hate has begun to spread like weeds and be overgrown.

Simple… you take a swing and hope for the best.

“Let me get this straight. You’re telling me that Bridgewaltz is on alert because someone decided to fight Sevika?”

The Chirean named Scar could only nod, acknowledging both Ekko and Sunset as they were trying to wrap their heads around what he just told them. “That’s right. From what one of our scouts saw, the place immediately cleared out when someone punched Sevika in the jawline and shit hit the fan.”

“Aren’t bar fights kind of normal at the Last Drop, though?” Sunset asked, “What makes this one different?”

“Sunset has a point, actually. Drunkards cause problems there all the time. How are we sure that this isn’t someone who just got angry because they were dealt a bad hand at cards?”

“Because they’ve noticed this person all over Bridgewaltz in the last few hours,” Scar retorted, “They were at Jericho’s stall, then made a trip over to Madam Babette’s and then made a beeline towards The Last Drop. Though, the thing is, right up until they left Madam Babette’s, somebody else was following them and didn’t look like a local.”

The fur on the back of Sunset’s neck began to stand up as she shifted her attention to the Chirean, “Did they say what they looked like?”

“Dark clothes aside from a red jacket, they had a hood on their head, but bandages covered their hands. At one point, when our guy saw them take their hood off, they noted some tattoos on the face and neck and that their hair moved off to one side while part of the head was shaved.”

Instantly, she looked back towards Ekko, “That’s the same person that bumped into me on my way back.”

“Shit,” Ekko cursed, not liking the coincidence that the same figure that Sunset just randomly bumped into happened to be the one causing a ruckus. Then, another thought crossed their mind, “What about the other one? You said that there was some kind of accomplice?”

“They wore some kind of uniform. Definitely not something you would find down here,” Scar pointed out, “Looks almost like a cadet uniform you would find for the Enforcers, but the details are hazy.”

That was enough to raise an immediate red flag. It was one thing to have strangers enter the Undercity, but an enforcer? Piltover’s finest would not be down here without a good enough reason, and if there was something that Pilties aren’t known for, it’s being completely honest.

“Where are they now?”

“If I have to be honest Chief, I doubt they would still be at The Last Drop by now,” the Chirean said, “No matter how that scuffle with Sevika turns out, they will be ending up with a target on their back anyways. Chances are, they would try to hide somewhere else in the Undercity. Maybe the slums depending on how brave or foolish they are.”

That was not good. The Slums were where those who were the worst afflicted by Shimmer converged with those who were the most desperate. People would easily turn on one another just to satisfy cravings that they had been denied for a long time.

At this point, it was clear that they needed answers. And the only way to have them was to not only find these two, but bring them back alive.

“So, what are we going to do?” Sunset looked back at Ekko, noticing that the internal gears in his mind were turning.

What she did not anticipate was the question that followed, “How good are you at staying hidden?”

If there was anything that she could say on the matter, at least what needed to be done sounded simple… in theory.

After being provided some repurposed equipment from Ekko, Sunset found herself back on the same ledge that overlooked Zaun when she first found herself here. Several months might’ve passed since then, but Zaun looked the same as ever. Nothing had changed, and more than likely, nothing will with the way things were.

Though, she was not out here to gaze out at the city. Rather, Sunset was doing a task that she was already familiar with before. Though, given the current circumstances, the approach as to how she had to carry out the task had to be changed.

Lucky for her, she was provided a few ‘appropriated’ tools to help as she reached to grab a small metal box with a few holes in it and powered by a small chemical tube. After clicking the side, the mage spoke into it. “Testing. If you can hear me, I’m heading down now.”

It took a moment, but Sunset breathed a sigh of relief as the static response came through on the other end, “Alright. Scar’s gathering anyone that can help. Right now, just try and see if you can find who we’re looking for. And please, be careful.”

That was an understatement. Because where she needed to go was a place that very few Firelights dared to tread and took a while to get down there. While the Undercity might’ve been dangerous, at least they knew the dangers there. They knew the stomping grounds of the barons and how to blend in so no one could catch onto them.

The Slums, on the other hand, were unknown territory. Very few dared to go there and even fewer make it out the same way they were before. Down here was where the Shimmer addicts and those who were the worst affected by Zaun’s current state resided, with many trying to take advantage of others they came across.

It was also a place that, geographically speaking, was much farther down than where the Undercity was. Run off chemicals and trash from the chem-plants that the barons operated would pool up down here, before being dumped into the sea. Ram-shackle abodes made of metal scraps and wood, abandoned buildings and what Ekko is to be believed, there was a mental asylum here at one point.

If there was any place that would be described as ‘Hell on Runeterra’, then some Zaunites would say that the slums would either match that description or come damn near close.

Luckily for Sunset, there happened to be a perfect spot for her observations. A small cliff's edge that overlooked the slums from a hundred feet up and hidden in the darkness of the night. She can see everything from up here, and if something happened where she had to retreat, Sunset had a plan in case of an emergency.

Kneeling into the dirt of the cliff and hunkering down in the shadows, Sunset reached for a spyglass that was next to the contraption Ekko gave her. After surveying the area with her own eyes, she peered through the spyglass, trying to get a closer view of anything in the darkness. “Okay, let’s see how long it takes until we find something down here-”

Contrary to what she thought, it did not take too long to notice something was happening.

At first, it didn’t seem too odd. People going through the different alleys in the slums and going about their business. Though, after a few minutes, most of the ones that were addicted to Shimmer started to follow one another. Much like animals in a pack, they began to move together to a single point in the center of the slums. At first, she assumed that they found more shimmer so they could get a taste.

Instead, she saw what looked like a crooked man. Darkened, yet fancy clothes were worn over then and one side of their face was heavily disfigured as they waited in the shadows. Almost as if expecting something… or someone while flanked by two bodyguards.

Right away though, Sunset felt a deep shiver go down her spine. For she recognized this man… and Firelight would. “Ekko, we have a major problem.”

“What’s wrong?”

“Silco is down here.” she grit her teeth, “Not sure why, but if he knew that who we’re looking for was heading down here-”

“Either they work for him or are against him. Plain and simple,” he quickly assumed, “Can you hear what’s going on?”

“I can try, but-”

Immediately, something else came into view as Sunset got back up and hugged the stone wall behind her. A door opened on a ramshackle hut with a neon sign in the shape of an eye above it. Someone stepped out. Bruised, but still kicking.

The same woman from the alley much earlier in the day. And a figure Silco seemed to recognize as some words of conversation bounced off the walls.

“Vander’s prodigy.” the crooked one said. “I regret that we never had the opportunity to speak.”

“What have you done with my sister?!”

“I freed her.”

Immediately, Sunset felt agonizing pain like before as something surged in her brain again. Pictures of a burning fire. A young girl in the blaze… and her being approached by the same man down here. All with the feeling of helplessness.

“N-not again.”

“Sunset? Sunset, what’s going on down there?”

Her eyes looked up, seeing that the addicts had now gotten their fix from the supplier. Watching their bodies mutate and flex into monstrosities. The woman, taking up a fighting stance, before rushing back into the hut and watched her strike a wooden pillar. In a matter of seconds, whatever supports that were inside slowly became undone as screws popped out and panels started to break.

Then she realized that the eye was falling… and parts of it were coming straight at her. “Oh shi-!”

On instinct, she hastily raced up. Not even caring who or what might see her as static from the other end of the box was breaking through. “Sunset, what the hell is going on down there?!”

“S-she was here,” the mage coughed, “But now on the run. That crazy woman tried to drop an entire building just now!”

“You saw her!? And Silco too?”

“Y-yes. He called her... ‘V-vander’s prodigy’ or something. Whatever they were discussing, it made my magic act up again. That woman is probably going back up as we speak.” When she expected a response from him… instead, everything was quiet. For a good moment or two, there was no response. Which did little to ease Sunset’s worries right now, “Ekko? Ekko, are you there!?”

After another moment, a response finally came in. But the tone had changed. Deeper, more serious and definitely more concerning, “Sunset, get back to the hideout. We’ll take it from here.”

Even though she was able to follow through on her part and made sure no one tailed her, the hardest part came afterwards. For even though Sunset did her part, the wait that followed was something she deeply hated. She knew that Ekko could handle himself, but after a day where they lost several friends today, losing more was the last thing she or the other Firelights would’ve wanted.

There was also the problem of what she experienced for the second time today. Her magic acted on its own, showing her visions that seared in her memory and made her feel as if reliving another person’s experiences. In the months that she had been here, it had never acted this way before when running into new people. Hay, it didn’t even act this way when she met Ekko for the first time.

So why the hell was it doing so now?

“Everything okay-”

As if on instinct, Sunset grabbed a knife with her levitation and shot it towards the sound of the voice. The moment it impacted the wall, the mage realized that the voice belonged to the person she had been waiting for.

“Woah, easy there.” Ekko raised his hands, as if mock surrendering to her.

“The fuck was that for?” She cursed, “More importantly, where have you been? You’ve been silent for the last half hour. Couldn’t even get a hold of you-”

The head of the Firelights sighed, before raising an identical contraption to that of the one he gave her. Only damaged and with a gaping hole in the center. “Things got a bit complicated for us. This got busted, but we managed to apprehend that ‘prodigy’ and then some. I plan to talk to her once they wake. See if they actually work for Silco or not-”

Even though she was listening to Ekko, Sunset noticed something was off. To her eyes, she was seeing something that he couldn’t see. A blue streak, much like a vapor trail, was emanating from him. And the power was very familiar.

“Ekko, mind telling me what’s in your pocket?” She asked, pointing to where she saw the trail and where it led too. Shortly after, he let out a small breath, before going over to the workshop bench in the room and setting down sapphire marble.

“One of the Firelights found something on the companion that tagged along with her. Turns out, they actually were from Topside-”

“Ekko, do you have any idea what this is?” Sunset asked, her gaze focused on the orb as she cast her levitation spell to float it to her.

“Outside of it being a shiny marble, no,” he said, folding his arms, “Wait… do you know what it might be?”

The mage, once known as the student of Princess Celestia in another realm, nodded her head. For she knew all too well what this was and quite frankly, would say that it was an area of expertise of hers.

“Ekko. This is not just some mere marble. This is magic.”

06- Theories and Visitors

There was a time in life where, depending on where you were from, many would be excited about the prospect of being someone who could harness the power that comes with magic. At least, in Equestria that is.

In this place, Runeterra, Magic had shaped the world… but also left it’s own fair share of scars. Those who know its history are aware of the damage it could bring if not careful, but some heed no mind to such risks. In fact, for the longest of times, Piltover and Zaun remained mostly untouched by magic and the means to harness it.

That all changed when one man found a way to harness the arcane through pure science. And with it, the birth of Hextech.

When this conversation started, Ekko had a few things in mind to talk about. Inform Sunset that he was okay, that both the woman she bumped into and her accomplice were apprehended and, if it ever came up, answer any questions that Sunset might’ve had regarding what she heard Silco say.

All of that was thrown out the window the moment that she asked about the gemstone that was picked up. And when she recognized what it was.

“Woah, hold on a minute,” he blinked, rubbing his forehead a bit, “You’re telling me that this… is magic?”

Sunset nodded, “Yes, but this is different from anything I’ve seen before. This thing is brimming with mana. Massive arcane power condensed in a tiny space.”

The boy savior of the Firelights couldn’t help but pinch the bridge of his nose as he looked back at the mage. “Okay, we’re going to have to take a step back for this to make sense for me. I don’t think I’ve ever had to ask this, but what sort of things when it comes to magic have you seen before?”

“That may take a bit to explain-”

“I got time,” Ekko insisted, pulling up a chair, “It’ll be a while before the ‘guests’ we brought in will wake up, so go for it.”

At this, Sunset looked around the room, noticing something in the back corner. A dusty old blackboard with some broken chalk. With a pull of levitation, the empty board slid across the floor towards them. The chalk floated in the air, before moving on its own at the motion of her glowing fingers.

“Back when I was little, when it came to magic, my teacher taught me that there were three ways that magic tends to show itself. The phrasing may be different, but the logic still applies,” The chalk continued to dance, before showcasing the word ‘POP’ on the board and splitting the three letters, “The first one you’ve already seen through me. Magic that’s channeled by people who can control it. How that magic takes form and how much they can do with it varies a lot, but you get the gist with what you’ve seen me do.”

“Okay, that’s simple enough, I guess.” Ekko scratched his head, “But how big is magic where you’re from, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Magic is about as deep of a field of study as engineering is for inventors on Topside. Some major historical figures where I’m from are actually powerful wizards or apprentices of said powerful wizards,” she then shook her head, trying to purge the thought from her mind and focus back on the here and now, “There’s even children stories, believe it or not.”

“Actually, I can believe it. The children in Zaun have a few tales of their own. Some of them are even on murals across the city. Maybe whenever we catch a break, we can share stories.”

Sunset can only chuckle, amused by the thought for the briefest of moments. But just as quickly, the moment passed and she moved on. “Maybe. Though, back on topic, the second category actually relates to what you happened to pick up. Objects that contain magical power.”

As the subject came up, Ekko picked up the sapphire orb from off the workbench. “To be honest, when we found this, it just looked like a fancy stone. Do you have any idea on what this could be?”

“Well, magical objects can vary depending on different factors. The amount of magical power, what its purpose is, those kinds of things,” She said, looking at the rock again for a bit more, “You know what this does remind me of, though?”

Ekko raised an eyebrow, folding his arms a bit. “You tell me.”

At that, Sunset turned the blackboard around and began to draw. At first, the boy couldn’t quite make out what she was trying to draw. Though, after a moment or two, a clearer picture was coming into form as Sunset drew out a rough picture of something the Firelights always used, “Remember when you were explaining to me how the dropboards worked and you told me that there was a source that powered it?”

“Yeah, the battery-” The moment the words left his lips, a theory quickly formed in his mind, “Wait. Are you saying-?”

That was all Sunset needed to hear, “Right now, it's a theory, but I think this is a magical battery and a very powerful one. I have no idea who in their right mind would be making these up on Topside or how many there are, but whatever they’re using them for-.”

“-Is probably the reason why that Piltie was so desperate to try and hide it.” Ekko grit his teeth, “Clearly, they know something about it and didn’t want it to fall into what they would call the wrong hands-”

That was when the mage let out a breath, “Hey, why don't we just not make any assumptions just yet? You yourself said that those guests you brought in won’t be awake yet. So, maybe wait to ask them before guessing anything.”

Despite his reservations, he knew that Sunset had a point. There was no purpose in thinking about ‘what ifs’ without concrete proof. So, for the meantime, his attention should be elsewhere. “You said that there were three? We talked about people already and also objects, so what’s the last one?”

“That’s one that’s rather rare, but does tend to happen on occasion back where I’m from,” Sunset sighed, flipping the board back to where she started as the chalk circled around the last letter. “Phenomenons caused by magic acting out on its own. Sometimes it’s the after effects of a massive spell, while other times it occurs naturally. This is something I don’t think will really happen here because the amount of magic here and those who can use it seems to be-”

“Almost non-existent?” Ekko interrupted.

“I wouldn’t say that. But more like… out of the whole city, there may be like one or two. I’m not ruling out the possibility of there being other mages down here, but either I’ve yet to meet them or they’ve done a very damn good job at hiding it.”

A valid point, especially considering the state of the Undercity as of lately. But that only left one last question on Ekko’s mind, as he held up the orb again. “So, regarding this, how dangerous do you think it is?”

Sunset could only shrug, “Honestly, I don’t know if I can really give you a solid answer-”

Before she could even finish, there was a knock on the door as it swung open. Another Firelight, this one in a bird mask with a long beak, was on the other side. “Chief, the guests are starting to wake up.”

“Already? Sheesh, I thought we would have a little bit more time,” he said, “Sorry about that, Sunset. We’ll try to pick this up later.”

“It’s fine. Don’t apologize,” she shook her head, before pointing to the orb, “Though, before you go, maybe put that thing in some kind of case? That way it doesn’t roll around anywhere.”

That had Ekko pivot from the door over to the workbench, pulling down a cylindrical bag from a shelf above a window as he opened it up. The interior had a lot of mechanical components, much to Sunset’s own surprise. As he dropped the orb inside, everything else began to lock into place as he pulled his mask back on.

“Alright, I’m going to go see what our guests have to say. Hopefully, this shouldn’t take long.” He said, pulling the bag over shoulder and stepping outside. Leaving Sunset in the workshop by herself, with a chalkboard full of notes from where she once belonged and nothing but time on her hands.

In the hours after talking with Ekko, the mage focused her time on other personal endeavours. He seemed to have the situation with the guests under control, but… there was something on the back of her mind that remained unresolved. All the talk about magic and her explanations to him had the subject resurface, and now that she had more time, it was better to address this now.

It had happened twice already today, and now she wanted to know what it was and what the hay was causing it before having to go out in the field again.

There were only a couple things that she had to go off of. The first was that it started happening after coming into contact with that person who bumped her in the alley. An early hypothesis on the matter was that it required some kind of physical touch for this to be triggered. But she was nowhere near that person in the slums and still had seen things.

So, the focus shifted from what triggered the reaction to what Sunset had seen. Less in a sense to understand the events themselves and more to look for patterns and similarities regarding what she witnessed both times. The more the subject was explored, the more she started to try and piece it together. Going from writing down notes on paper to erasing one side of the chalkboard and transcribing different possibilities.

The rest of the hideout outside of the workshop was a blur as time passed, for Sunset was nothing but persistent on this matter. She needed to know what was the cause of this, and if the mage could determine one, then she could find a way to get it under control.

Though, hours of persistence and a drive to understand couldn’t help her against one other caveat. That being the need to sleep. And despite what Sunset wanted to accomplish, her body said otherwise as she fell down onto a makeshift cushion on the floor and let sleep drift her away.

Now, ever since she got here, most of her dreams were not that memorable. Most of the time, it would feel as if everything would fade to black, and then she would wake up the next day. This time though, something was different.

Instead of pitch black, it was a blinding white all around her. She couldn’t see anyone or anything else, but can’t help but feel as if she wasn’t alone. The fur on the back of her neck stood up as a cold shiver went through her.

Curious. One not from here, yet you hold the gift.

Her ears twitched, turning around to try and perceive if someone was speaking. But in a shock, it wasn’t someone that was talking, but… something. A strange shape, resembling a dodecahedron with other markings around it. Markings on the outside that looked like biological tissue, being warped and changed. Arcane runes floated overhead, none of which in a language that Sunset could even comprehend.

“What… are you?”

Something in us changed. It said, ignoring the question entirely. The room started to glow bright, forcing Sunset to shield her eyes. All we know is that we are of the Arcane… and soon, we will wake.

In a split second, the mage felt as if she was shot out of a cannon as the force against her body was enough to startle her awake. There was no telling how long she slept for, but the Firelights outside the hideout were buzzing brightly again, much like the first time. Things were a bit blurry as she tried to wrap her head around everything.

Only to be interrupted by the sound of an unfamiliar voice nearby. “Oh sockets, someone’s been rather hard at work here. Such simplified, yet profound magical theories. Yet, what does this all mean?”

As her vision cleared, she could now see what looked like a very short figure. Almost half of her height, but with a lot more fur and very long ears. But the clothes they wore were immediately recognizable.

They were wearing a uniform that was Piltovan blue. What the hell was a Piltie doing down here?!

“What do you think you’re doing?!”

“Wha-?”

Instinctively, Sunset let magic glow from her horn and hands as the stranger turned around. Their eyes widened, not just at the sight of her, but what she was doing as their gaze shifted from her to the magic around her hands.

Things only got less tense when the mage actually heard a voice that she recognized from the other side of the room, “Oh great, I knew I was forgetting something.”

At first, Sunset was relieved to hear that and went as far as to stop channeling her magic. But when she turned around to see them, that relief turned into flat out horror when she found that Ekko was much worse for wear, had several injuries all over his body, was leaning on a crutch in one arm, holding his board in another and his ankle was wrapped in bandages.

“Sunset, before you ask-”

“Dear sweet Celestia, WHAT THE BUCK!?!”

By this point, Sunset was now back on her hooves as she paced in front of the chalkboard. Ekko was resting on the couch that she passed out on. All the while, this newcomer (who she didn’t even know the name of) was on the chair that was by Ekko’s workbench.

“So, let me get this straight… you had a talk with the guests we had, and learned that the woman who caused a fight at the Last Drop was a childhood friend that you assumed was dead.”

“Much to my own surprise, yes.”

“You take her and her ‘friend’ back up to Topside, only to almost get shot by enforcers, get in a fight against and blown up by The Jinx, and you get your leg busted up in the process.”

“More or less. Still hurts like hell though.”

“And the only reason why you’re back is because…” Sunset paused, before looking over at the newcomer, “I’m sorry, but I never got your name.”

“Oh, it’s Heimerdinger.” the newcomer replied. But the name was enough in order to have a lightbulb go off in the mage’s mind.

“Heimerdinger… as in the Council member?”

The figure looked around the room for a brief second, before letting out a deep sigh. “Like I told Ekko earlier, it’s just Heimerdinger now.”

That left more questions than answers, but Sunset chose not to pursue that matter. “And he helped you get back… Ekko, I’m not to question you, but when you do insane shit like that, you know I’m going to get worried,” her attention then shifted back to Ekko, and it was now that she noticed the lack of something on his person, “Where’s that container you had earlier? The one that held the orb?”

“Last I remember, I gave it to Vi. I thought it would be better in her hands then have it fall into that of Jinx.”

That was a valid point. Though, the mention of this had a much different reaction from that of Heimerdinger. “My apologies, what orb are you referring to?”

Sunset looked over to Ekko, before he chose to answer, “The other day, we came across this round sapphire blue stone. Sunset felt that it was magical, so-”

“You two found a Hextech Gemstone?”

Almost immediately, Sunset and Ekko looked back at one another, before the mage looked back at him. “You know what this is?”

“Why of course! Hextech was a creation by one of my former pupils. The reason why it works is because the Gemstones are what powers it.”

Immediately, Sunset couldn’t help but feel that her brain was going into overdrive. This was the exact same thing she was theorizing almost a day ago when they had the stone. Now, it had just been confirmed to be true, by a former council member who knew the person who invented it.

But that left another question on Sunset’s mind. “Mister Heimerdinger, do you know why a Hextech Gemstone would be floating around inside the Undercity?”

“Your guess is as good as mine, I’m afraid,” the council member shrugged, “Though, if we may change the subject, I’m more curious about you Miss Sunset. For one thing, out of all the things I expected to find down here, this hideout and a mage is not one of them. If it’s okay with you, I like to learn more about-”

“What, like my life story?”

“Only if you wish to share it.”

Sunset was really unsure of what to do. For one thing, the story of how she got here was something she never really wanted to just tell people outright. Especially with how complex and confusing it was. On the other hand though, despite only knowing them for a short while, Heimerdinger was the one who helped save Ekko’s life and get him back home.

If Ekko was able to trust him… then maybe she can too.

“Well, let’s say that my story started with a very bad decision I made.”