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Chapter Text

It was a stormy and humid June night, when a stranger entered Willow Wands after hiding and running from people for nearly a year. He anxiously tugged at the hood of his dark blue sweater, taking a few looks over his shoulder to assure himself nobody had seen him. He grimaced at the distant thunder, his eyes barely illuminated by the lightning miles away and the side of his hoodie lightly illuminated by the neon sign welcoming visitors into the small city.

He touched his scarred hand to the sign, and hunched his head down behind it, once again taking a double take. He heard a rustling in the trees nearby, and ran. He clenched his fists and he sped down the hills, feeling as the wind brushed against his face and threatened to pull down his hood. He hadn’t felt this free in months. He felt like a young boy again. It was like being safe. Like playing with his older sister in the playground on the edge of town. He heard another rustling and gasped. He leapt backwards into the cool grass, relaxing himself beneath the dark gray sky. His eyes focused to the half-moon in the sky, taking comfort in its doting light. He turned his head to his right, staring to the nearby town ahead. Lights running down the road, cars occasionally speeding past. 

“よし、キオ(Okay, Kio)…” He whispered to himself, “やっと来たな。さて、何をすればいい(You’ve made it, now what to do)?” He stood up and continued walking. He sped through the lights of the city, before dread took a hold of him. His chest twisted as he barreled to the cement, his trembling hand clasping his chest tightly. Tears welled in his eyes as he desperately tried to contain himself. He tried to take his mind off of his mistake. The cars speeding down the street nearby were muted to his ears, as he pressed himself against the bricks of one of the buildings. 

Then someone grabbed his hood and yanked it off. 

Chapter Text

The boy jolted up, startled by the hand pulling him backwards by his hood. His face was revealed to them, his long orange and blonde hair popping out from his hood. 

“Ah, we have a new sucker.” An older man slurred. His breath reeked of booze. “Hey, boys, look at this little chump. Couldn't be more than 16.” Three more men accompanied him. The boy was nearly panicking, his green eyes scanned them for threat. He really didn’t want to have to fight them. “We can make this easy for you, little boy.” The man croaked, and pinned him against the wall. The boy grunted in startled pain. “My friends and I want to go to this club tonight, but we don’t have the money to pay its fees. Either you give us some willingly or we’ll take it.” 

The boy grimaced and tried to explain himself. “You don’t understand, I just got here…” He explained in a whisper, recoiling into himself. He hoped they wouldn’t recognize him from the papers. “Wait a minute.” 

Shit. The boy thought. “You’re that fire boy from the paper.” One man called. “Bro, you’re dangerous. Come with us, we could use someone like you. People wouldn’t mess around with us anymore!” 

The boy shook his head, his face twisted in disgust. “I don’t like to associate with bums like this.” He muttered. “I’m leaving. I’m tired and starving and done with this conversation.” He scoffed, before adjusting his backpack and teleporting a few feet away from them. “Ah, damn, you’re as boring as the pendant bearers that live here. Couldn't get the little cow that leads the group here to help us, either. Too busy fighting people like us.” 

The boy stopped. “If you’re talking about Stephanie Sheridan and her group, maybe you should hold your tongue. They’ve saved our asses many times.“ The boy seethed. “And don’t call me dangerous. I already know.” He started to walk again, and pulled the hoodie back over his head to conceal himself. He was startled by the sound of a gunshot. “くそ(Fuck)!” 

“NOT SO FAST, KID!” The boy stopped and whirled around. The group thundered towards him. “We aren’t done with you yet!” The leader hollered.

The boy sighed. “You have one last chance to let it be.” The boy warned, his voice wavering slightly. “Or what?” The leader asked dismissively. “You gonna call your buddies? Oh, right, they’re all dea-“

The boy threw a punch that left the leader stunned and hurtling towards the ground. “Get him!” He screamed, but the boy was determined. He threw the men off of him, swept underneath of them, taking one of them by the arms and flipping the man over himself, knocking him out cold. He leapt onto an abandoned ramp, running up it. The last man standing chased him up the ramp. He tripped and nearly fell with a yelp. The boy was cornered, his eyes lingering on the ground four feet down, and then focused them on the man crawling up the ramp for him. He kicked the man’s nose, and forced himself onto his feet to fight this last man one on one. The man put the boy into a chokehold, and the latter responded by kicking him in the shins. The man tumbled down the ramp. He tried to get up again when he was startled by a huge tower of flames shooting into the sky. The four men stared up in horror. “I don’t want to have to use this,” The boy threatened, his voice low and his teeth bared like a predator, “But if you don’t leave right now, I will not hesitate to show you my secret.” All but one of the men ran. The boy crouched down, his flames still smoldering. His eyes glowed green like a cat catching mice. “You aren’t going to run?” The boy asked with a cocky grin. 

“You picked the wrong kid to mess with.” 

He sent trails of flame spinning around the remaining man, blocking him from leaving. The flames ate away at the cuffs of his tattered jeans as the boy only stared and smiled. “I will let you go if you let me go.” The boy offered, his voice was now soft, gentle, even. The man hastily nodded his head. “Please!” The man cried. The flames intensified. “Louder.” 

“PLEASE LET ME GO!” The man wailed in dread. The flames stopped, leaving ash in their wake. “Better.” The boy chuckled. He brought his flaming hand down, and pointed towards the alleyway’s exit. The man fled. The boy stood at the edge of the ramp, before his head started spinning. The flames on his skin died down as he staggered back and fell against the ramp. The last thing he heard was muffled music from the building to the left of him and the sound of a goofy voice full of panic. 

“Oh no, not again! Are you okay, Kid? Here, I’ll get help.” 

Then he was out. 

Chapter Text

The boy grimaced as he was met with the blinding light from the ceiling. He grunted as he sat up, his head still throbbing with pain.

“Your head hurts, huh?” A woman’s voice asked. He was met with a young, short haired figure, with glasses and a purple hoodie. “Here, take this.” She handed him a glass of water and a couple pills, which he accepted. “Thanks.” He whispered softly. He took the pills and drank the water quickly. “You act like you haven’t drank in weeks. Need some more?” The woman asked worriedly. “Please.” He replied, his voice raspy from the drinks. The woman stood up and walked for the kitchen. “You have been out for a while. My friend, Rolfe found you.” The woman said as she dug through the fridge for a bottle of water. “Name’s Lucy, by the way.” 

The boy tensed and leaned against the couch. “Kioku.” He introduced. The rummaging stopped, and his face fell when he realized he gave himself away. “Kioku? Like that kid in the news?” Lucy asked, like she had been kicked in the gut. “You’ve been missing for months. We’ve been following that case…people think you died!” Lucy gasped, running in with water. 

“I’ve been in hiding.” Kioku whispered, making sure his eyes didn’t meet with hers. “Everyone knows what I did. I burned down that whole block. They think I’m a monster.” He faltered. Lucy sat by him. “Me and Rolfe don't think so. I know the others won’t either. Heh, we kind of specialize in “monsters”.” Lucy chuckled. Kioku finally faced her. “I know. Lucy Virginia, right?” 

Lucy smiled. “Yes.” 

“You guys are celebrities everywhere. Especially after that incident with the portals.” Kioku explained. “You guys are everywhere on the news. Some people even want to make merchandise of you guys.” Lucy stared in shock. “That big, huh?” 

“Oh, yes.” Kioku explained. “Me and my old group had our favorite members we liked to read about, too.” Kioku laughed awkwardly. “Hope that doesn’t sound too odd.” 

Lucy shook her head. “Kioku, if you want weird and messed up, go onto TikTok ot Pinterest or something, because what you just said is mild compared to some of the things I’ve seen and heard.” Lucy teased. 

“And Rolfe…isn't he the wolf guy?” Kioku asked shyly. “Yes.” Lucy confirmed. “He found you in the alleyway behind my nightclub. My girlfriend and I brought you home.” 

“I see.” Kioku asked. “Where’s everyone else?” Kioku asked. “They are at the main house. This is my own house for when me and Copper want private time.” Lucy explained. “They’re about a block away.” 

Kioku stood up and walked to the windows. He crossed his arms behind his back, staring off. “Are you okay?” Lucy asked. Kioku put his hand up to signal he was fine, and walked to one of the chairs. “It’s just strange to be out in the open like this. I have been laying low for a long time.” Kioku whispered. “Care to talk about it?” Lucy asked. Kioku tensed and hid himself with his hoodie. “It’s alright if you don’t. It’s just an offer. Lucy reached into a cupboard and got some cups of instant macaroni and a package of cookies. “It’s fend for yourself night snack wise. I’ll get some snacks, you just pick what you want.” Lucy explained. She reached into the freezer and pulled out several frozen foods and grabbed a vile of hot sauce and sat down with Kioku. Kioku was still staring, now at his shaking hand, which he kept squeezing into a whitened fist. “Are you okay?” Lucy asked. Kioku could almost see the orange flames smoldering along his arm and he could almost smell the smoke and burning flesh, tile and wood. He pinched his elbow to snap himself out of the memories and focused back on Lucy. “I’ll be fine. I’m just tired. I’m not really hungry.” He lied. His stomach ratted him out. “You need to eat.” Lucy instructed. She grabbed a frozen mini-pizza and popped it into the oven. “I’ll pick something for you.” Lucy explained. 

Kioku leaned against the chair, still gripping his hands into fists. He relayed Lucy’s questions in his mind. I don’t want to tell anyone about what happened that night. Not even them…

“Don’t be afraid, Kioku,” Lucy assured, when she was pulling the mini-pizza out of the oven after 10 minutes of awkward silence. “We won’t hurt you.” She sat it in front of him and grinned. “Tomorrow, if you’re up to it, Copper, her son, Theo and I will take you to meet the others.” Lucy sat back down. “What do you think of that?” 

Kioku flinched at the thought of all those people knowing he was there, but he figured he didn’t have much choice, considering the level of danger he was in. Besides, at least he’d meet Rolfe and more specifically in his mind, Stephanie. 

“Sure. I’d love to.”

Chapter Text

Stephanie woke up to the doorbell ringing. She lifted herself out of bed, exhausted. She stumbled to the door, her vision blurred from sleep. She looked between the dusty, plastic shades of the front door, and was met with Lucy’s eyes. She opened the door, and welcomed Lucy, Copper and Theo in. Then she was met with Kioku. Her eyes widened. “Hello?” Stephanie asked in surprise. Kioku’s eyes went even wider than Stephanie’s, and he tensed. He stumbled a couple steps back, with his hands rigidly behind his back. 

Lucy tapped her shoulder. “That’s why I’m over here so early. I have a new friend.” Lucy joked with a faint grin. “I see that. How old?” Stephanie whispered. “He’s your age. About sixteen.” Copper confirmed. “He seems so nervous.” 

“He’s been trying to lay low for months. You remember that news article?” Lucy explained. “What news article? Lucy, you didnt just bring a convict to our house?” Stephanie whispered. “No, no…He’s that kid whose powers are a little…Clumsy?” 

Stephanie froze in realization. “Oh, that kid.” Stephanie recalled. “Rolfe found him conked out by the bar. Dropped him off at our place.” Copper explained. “Oh, yeah. Rolfe seemed a bit out of it when he got home from work last night.” Stephanie added. “I’m surprised he didn’t say anything.” 

Kioku stood in the doorway, silently spectating. He listened in, waiting for an opportunity to speak. He gingerly tapped the doorway. “Girls?” Kioku asked softly. They kept talking. “Girls!” He repeated, louder, and got them to face him. “Can I come in? The flies will be in before I even take a step.” 

Stephanie flustered. “Oh, sorry! Here, come in.” Stephanie ushered him in with a smile. Kioku slowly walked in, silently marveling at the surroundings. It’s even bigger in person. He thought to himself. And she’s even prettier. 

Stephanie awkwardly fidgeted in her place, trying to find words to say. “So…How do you like Willow Wands?” Stephanie asked. Kioku shrugged. “It’s nice. I can appreciate more people with powers. People who don’t fear what I can do.” Kioku explained. “Unfortunately, I notice it’s more the opposite here. They underestimate me.” 

Stephanie smiled and nodded. “You can sit if you’d like.” Stephanie offered, gesturing to the couch. Kioku awkwardly heeded and sat down. “Name’s Stephanie.” Stephanie introduced. “I know.” Kioku replied bluntly. “You and your group are celebrities, you know.” 

Stephanie blushed. “Right. I try not to think of us like…that.” Stephanie fumbled. “I’m Kioku.” He introduced, awkwardly extending a hand. She shook it. “Nice to meet you.” 

The others came in a swarm. 

“Who’s the new kid?” Right asked as he stumbled into the room, tugging softly on his leather jacket to hide his chest. “This is Kioku. He’s allegedly that boy whose powers were acting up a while back. Rolfe found him out by the Eye last night.” Stephanie explained. “We don’t know this kid. Shouldn’t you read his mind or something before letting some rando in?” Earl interjected from the bunch. “Look at him, guys, he looks exhausted and scared. I’m half convinced that the last thing on his mind is who in this group he’s going to barbecue with his powers.” Lucy scoffed. 

“Thanks for sticking up for me.” Kioku mumbled softly, recoiling into himself and further away from Stephanie, despite his eyes being glued onto her. 

“Yeah, guys. He looked half beat when I found him last night. Speaking of which, how are ya feeling, Buddy?” Rolfe asked, his voice quickly laced with a smile. Kioku shrugged. “Just a bit of a headache. Why?” Kioku asked, with a tilt of his head. “You passed out in my arms, that’s why. And your clothes were burnt, by the way. I just grabbed the other hoodie from your bag and an outfit for you.” The wolf explained. 

“Yes, I noticed when my red hoodie turned blue.” Kioku scoffed, a faint smirk on his face. Stephanie snickered, and the others gradually joined in with raucous laughter. 

“Damn. Not afraid to use his voice. Alright, I think I already like you, Kid. Welcome.” Right chuckled. 

“I assume you know who the others are.” Stephanie chuckled. “If you knew me, Rolfe, Lucy and Copper. And little Theo, of course.” 

Kioku nodded. “That’s Right. He’s the cyborg guy. The brunette in the vest over there is Reginald, the little blue haired lady is Elisha. The red headed woman in the blouse is her sister, Ellie. The blonde next to her is Henry…all the animal people are Rolfe’s band mates and his wife and kids, the boy there is Flash, and the kid there is Jean, with the three adults behind her being Louise, Richard and Sheryl. Oh, and that fat cat of Jean’s. Midget, right?” Kioku kept listing off names, almost with enthusiastic fervor. ”The two old guys are Dmitri and Grigori, the man with the black tank top is Charles, and the woman in the black braid is Sonya. The two guys in the back are Marianne and Hunter.”

”You’re very good at this. It’s almost unnerving.” Richard observed, his voice awkard from witnessing the accuracy. “Again, your celebrities. Like, everywhere.” Kioku explained. “You do know you are ranked the best pendant group since 1958, when Sofania Agabov was killed.” 

“You know about Sofania Agabov, too?” Stephanie asked, her voice raised in excitement. “I do. I studied her when my siblings and I  got into the swing of our powers. That’s another reason I know who you are, too. But yeah. You guys are well known. Britain, Germany and Russia especially know you. And where I’m from, there was actually a billboard of you guys for a long time.” Kioku recalled. “You take a good picture.” Kioku said, his eyes locking once more onto Stephanie before he pulled away again. “I…well…thank you.” 

“Sorry! I didn’t mean to sound odd!” Kioku flustered. “No, you didn’t. Kio, trust me, when you get to know me, you will see I’m the Queen of Weird.” Stephanie chuckled. 

After introductions passed, Louise changed the subject. “Okay, so, we do have some of our friends from the spirit realm visiting. Would you like to stay with us and meet them?” 

Kioku smiled and nodded. “I wouldn’t mind. I have been wondering what it was like for you to truly meet a spirit.” 

Kioku hadn’t genuinely smiled in months. 

He almost forgot how freeing it was. 

But with who was after him…

How long could that peace last?

Chapter Text

The portal to the Spirit Realm shrouded the doorway as a familiar handful of figures stepped out. The first two consisted of Ivan and his girlfriend, Amita. Stephanie ran up to greet them. “Hi, Ivan, hi, Amita!” Stephanie chirped, tackling them in a hug. 

“Woah, woah, wait a minute, I need to get out of the way, Adrik, Nadia and the kids are on the way through.” Ivan chuckled, as he patted her on the back. 

“It’s good to see you, too, Steph.” Amita chuckled, before walking away from the doorway. Ivan pulled Stephanie away as Adrik and Nadia teleported in, with Leovoy, Lev and Natalia in tow. “Sorry we were late.” Nadia called down the hall. “Adrik over here was taking all the time in the world, humming and pacing the room while looking for his suitcase. Adrik gave her a mock glare and sauntered down the hall. 

“Wait, Dmitri, is that your father? I knew you said he was tall, but, くそ(damn)!” Kioku whispered. 

“Да, that would be my father.” Dmitri whispered back. “And, yes, he’s as terrifying as he looks. Still getting used to this kinder side of him.” 

“Well, hello to you, too, ‘Mitri.” Adrik chuckled. “Father! Hi.” Dmitri flustered, hiding his hands behind his back as if he held something incriminating. 

“Calm down, Dmitri, do I look mad?” Adrik asked, gesturing to his face. “No, but I never could tell, if I say so myself.” Dmitri laughed nervously. 

“So, how is everyone?” Amita asked, wringing her hands shyly. “We’ve been good. We have a new friend.” Stephanie explained, gesturing to Kioku. Amita’s eyes landed on him. “Aww, he’s so cute!” She beamed, her voice suddenly locked in a strong French brogue. She started walking over to him. “His hair is like a little yellow flame.” She sat by him. “So what’s your name? I’m Amita.” 

Another round of formalities…then the focus went back onto the Petrovs. “So, Dia and I just moved closer to Utopia.” Adrik explained. “It’s a big, b-beautiful house, with great v-v-view of the Utopia on one side and nice view of The City of F-F-Fallen on the other.” 

“And there’s enough room for Lev and Natalia to have their own space, and there are guest rooms in case any of you wanted to come and see us. Dmitri, Stephanie, we’re looking at you.” Nadia teased. 

Stephanie raised an eyebrow. “I’ve been talking things out with someone, trying to find ways to better my Sh-shifting even more than I already have. I was d-doing good but…well, I don’t want to risk it a-again.” Adrik explained, awkwardly gesturing with his hands. “That’s what I have been doing in that room, humming and pacing to steady myself if I get…ahem, overwhelmed.” 

Nadia nodded. “We understand.” 

“I’ve been painting with Father again. Like I did when I was younger.” Natalia explained, reaching into her suitcase to pull out a beautifully detailed picture of a field at dusk.

”She’s as grand of a painter as her father.” Amita chuckled. “Isn't she, Adrik?” 

Adrik blushed faintly. “I-I-I guess so.” Adrik stammered, rubbing the back of his neck. “I got him into painting, you know.” Amita hummed. “Couldn't get a paintbrush out of his hand.” 

“You still can’t, what are you talking about?” Nadia laughed. “When he gets home on weekends, he tends to have some new canvas up. Gets a perfect painting churned out in a couple hours or so.” 

The conversation went on for hours. Kioku already clicked with them, too, and learned a lot about them each individually. Lev and his love for reading and photography. Natalia’s shared love of painting, drawing and animals with her father. Nadia’s secret passion for the sciences, as well as her seemingly misplaced love for her husband, despite his…less than savory nature back in the day. 

Then he would listen in to Ivan speaking about his and Amita’s relationship, which had, evidently, been a rekindled romance from his life, back when Adrik was a child. How they went out on dates every Friday and Wednesday, and how much they knew about one another. 

It was a lot to take in, and yet, it was addicting. 

“How rude of us. We’ve been talking on and on about ourselves, and never once, asked about what K-Kioku likes.” Adrik explained. Kioku slumped in his chair. “I like to run, and I like to draw and write. Maybe I dabble in auto mechanics a little. That’s about it for me.” 

Stephanie’s eyes lit up like stars. “You write, too?!” Stephanie beamed. “Yes…?” Kioku replied hesitantly. “Hang on, I’ll be back!” Stephanie chirped, and she bolted for her bedroom.

”For context, Stephanie likes to do all those things, herself. Minus the auto mechanics.” Louise explained with a laugh. “She can’t tell a transmission from a piston, I swear to god.” Right muttered, his head falling into his hands. “I tried to train her, I should know.” Right muttered again. Kioku couldn't help but laugh. “Don’t trust her stranded in a broken car.” Kioku chuckled. “Got it.” 

“Yeah, she’d have better luck walking.” Flash chuckled. 

“So, not to change the subject or anything, why did you come all the way over here?” Grigori asked, suddenly, and abruptly, almost like a horror movie jumpscare. Kioku tensed and the flashbacks of the wall of fire slinking around him like a snake born in hell smoldered in his mind. He felt his stomach twist as he rushed for the kitchen. “I need water, I’ll be back.” Kioku rasped. When he ran for the kitchen, he got some water, and chugged four glasses in eight gulps. He slammed the glass down with a clink, and slumped over the counter to catch his breath. He ran his hands under the cool water from the tap, and splashed some of the liquid against his clammy face. He grabbed a paper towel and dried his face before heading back in to a confused and dazed crew. 

“Sorry.” Kioku laughed. “Thirsty.” He plunked down in his seat. “You didn’t answer my question.” Grigori explained. “It’s nothing. Really.” Kioku mumbled. “So, what’s everyone’s favorite foods, out of curiosity?” Kioku asked, desperately trying to change the subject. 

Stephanie had just returned at the moment she heard the question, and could see the fear in his eyes.

She could also see the blatant guilt in them. 

Chapter Text

Later that night…

Stephanie shyly walked to the door of Kioku’s room, and gently tapped it with her knuckle. “Hey, Kio?” Stephanie whispered through the keyhole. “Are you awake?” The door opened, and Kioku walked out. 

“What’s going on?” Kioku mumbled. Stephanie put something in his hand. Two dollar bills. “Thought maybe you and I could go get a soda tomorrow. If you wanted. Maybe we could talk about things.” Stephanie offered. Kioku stared down at the bills in his hand, and clenched his hand shut with a smile. “Thank you, Stephanie. This is very kind.” Kioku hummed, and turned his back towards his room before stopping. He turned back around. “What’s the catch?” 

“Nothing. I just want to make you feel welcome. I do something special with everyone that comes here. Last newcomer was Copper. Lucy’s girlfriend? I went to a cagefight with her and Lucy. It was…gory.” Stephanie rambled. “Not surprised, given she was a fighter, I hear.” Kioku chuckled. He leaned against the doorway, focused solely on Stephanie. Stephanie mimicked his posture, and they fell silent. Stephanie focused on his eyes. The two light green, almond shaped orbs that glittered like stars. She smiled. “You have green eyes.” Stephanie whispered. “You know how rare that actually is?” Stephanie asked, repositioning her stance with a hand on her hip and a crossed leg. “Yeah. It’s…very uncommon.” Kioku laughed. They shared another phase of silence. Stephanie clicked her tongue and nodded. “Yep. Well, I have to go to bed. See you in the morning, Kio.” Stephanie chirped, as she awkwardly sauntered off down the hall. 

“Yep. See you, Stephanie.” He closed the door behind him and slid down it. He reached into his pocket and pulled out an earring. “Kemuri.” Kioku whispered. “If you were here, you won’t believe who I just met.” He traced the orange leather with his fingernail. “They are as cool as they say.” He smiled before it faded behind his guilt. “I’m truly sorry, Kemuri. If I could go back in time, I would erase it all. I miss home. I miss our friends. My sister. I miss you, Muri.” His hands heated up, much to his terror. He threw the earring with a light yelp, as he forcefully balled his fists and pulled them to his chest. “Stop, Kioku. Stop, Kioku.” He steeled himself, his throat throbbing as he tried to get the flame in his hands to suffocate. “Stop. Stop.” He strained. He felt his hands go cold. They hung down at his sides. “I hope they know they’ll need to fireproof this room.” He muttered, as he got off the floor, picked up the earring and sat down on the bed. “I don’t want to hurt anyone again.”

Chapter Text

The next day…

Stephanie and Kioku met up, as discussed, at the convenience store for sodas the following afternoon. The two of them walked the streets, with Stephanie complaining internally about the heat of the day. “It’s so dry.” Kioku thought aloud. “Doesn't rain much here, does it?” Kioku asked. “Yeah. It snows at lot here, though.” Stephanie explained. “So…” Kioku asked awkwardly. “Yes?” 

“What was it like?” Kioku asked. “Getting your powers?” Stephanie tensed at the question. “Uhh.” Stephanie choked a moment. “Yeah…about that. It wasn’t a clean discovery.” Stephanie laughed nervously. She stopped right at the edge of the sidewalk. “When me and my friend found our pendants and they started up…she vanished on me. Woke up and she was gone. Was traumatized for a year after that.” 

Kioku flinched at the story. “I’m sorry for your loss.” 

“It wasn’t your fault. But the rest of the first year wasn’t a picnic either. When I met Rolfe like, a month later, and touched his hand, I saw the car crash that killed his parents from his eyes. That wasn’t pretty, either. Don't get me started on the wings. Twelve year old me and my wings did not get along with the wind. I still have a scar on my left leg from ramming into the side of an aspen by the preschool. The kids thought it was funny. Obviously, I did not. I was too busy crying to laugh.”

Kioku laughed in spite of himself. “Well, I’m glad to see you were okay.” 

“It was embarrassing. Averie, a friend of mine at school, still teases me about it. “OMG, remember that time you fell into a tree, Steph”? She makes it funny, though, so that’s nice.” 

“She sounds like a great friend.” Kioku hummed, shaking his head. “Oh, she is. Always defended me.”

They were silent again as they crossed the street. Kioku fought the urge to pull his hood back on, despite the blistering heat. “Why don’t you take the hoodie off?” Stephanie asked. “Are you wearing a tank top or anything underneath that?” 

“I am, but I need this. In case I need to hide…and because it reminds me of my sister.” Kioku whispered. “Aww. You have a sister?” 

Kioku’s eyes widened when her question registered. “I—Yes. I have a sister. Whom I miss. But she can’t know I’m here.” 

“Why not?” Stephanie asked. Kioku picked up his pace. “Sorry, Kio. I didn’t mean to open old wounds.” 

“No, no, it’s okay.” Kioku insisted, as he started taking long strides. His focus came off the road. “I’m just not ready to talk yet.” Kioku explained. “But need I remind you, my powers are inhumanly dangerous.” Kioku explained with a hint of hatred. He slowed down, unaware of the car approaching. “I’m on the run. I mean, I could probably pass off as a random guy here, until they see the tattoo on my shoulder and then it’s curtains for me. I’ll be taken back home. And back home, they still think I…” 

BEEP! 

Stephanie lunged into Kioku’s arms, and shoved him across the road. The two of them fell into the cement. Well, Kioku did. Stephanie slammed into the brick wall of the thrift shop. Stephanie grunted in pain. Kioku got back on his feet, ignoring the vulgar jeers of the driver speeding past them. “Are you okay?” Kioku asked worriedly. “Yeah. I get thrown against buildings all the time. Spine of steel.” Stephanie joked, laughing off a grimace. “Still think you what?” Stephanie rasped, as she struggled to retrieve her balance. Kioku took her hand to help her the rest of the way. “Did something horrible back home. Those surges ruined everything.” The silence returned. Kioku’s face went pale white as he cranked off the lid to his soda and chugged it. “But enough about me.” He gasped in between drinks. “What was that save? Was that practiced?” Kioku asked with enthusiasm.” 

“I don’t know. Saved a little boy one time. But that’s just whatever reflex I actually have.” Stephanie recalled. “I was 13 back then. Still don’t know how I managed.” As the two of them walked down the street, Stephanie relayed the questions in her head. 

Kioku has a sister? 

The surges caused that fire? 

 Stephanie swallowed the lump in her throat as she looked around for the house. “You are quite fun, Kioku. We should do this more often.” Stephanie laughed. Kioku nudged her. “Careful. Don't play with fire too much.” Kioku teased, his eyebrow raised. When they reached the house, Kioku was the first one in. Stephanie could once again sense a certain haunt. Now, she could faintly sense a memory. A smell of smoke and burning metal. Then it was full of screams and a putrid smell she had never known. She wrinkled her nose and staggered into the house. “Okay, that’s not weird and absolutely foul at all.” Stephanie muttered. “But he’s sweet.” 

“Well, well. Is my baby back out there?” 

Stephanie’s face flushed red. “Wh-?! Mom! How long have you been sitting there?” Stephanie flustered, locking eyes on her mother, who was sitting in a kitchen chair, drumming her fingertips on the table. “Long enough to see you walk in with the new kid.” Louise teased, giving her distinctive smug grin. “Mom, I was not on a date.” Stephanie insisted, her voice firm. “I’m still trying to get over one pretty boy with a pretty accent.” She was about to walk out of the kitchen. “Stephanie.” Louise teased. “Mom. I am not dating him. I was just showing him around town and bought him a soda. It’s a courtesy thing.” 

“Hahah! You are turning redder than those pot holders on the counter.” Louise cackled, helping confirm the point as Stephanie’s face grew redder and redder at her mother’s teasing. “Okay, I’ll agree, he’s a cute guy, especially for a blonde, but I’m not dating him. I try to move on to other guys and so far, I’ll either only see Lucas’ smile in my mind, or I’ll think of that one boy I dated that I broke it off with a few weeks ago, that we do not speak of?” Stephanie cringed at the memory. “It was a month. I doubt it counts, really.” Louise recalled. “Point is, Mom…” Stephanie sighed. “I’m still so caught up on Lukey.” She fidgeted anxiously as she poured her heart out. “And unless I die, it’s not like I could date him again.” Stephanie explained. “Honey, I know you loved him, but you can’t spend your entire life dwelling on the past. Isn't that what you tell your friends?” 

Stephanie nodded. “But I can tell you want to welcome that boy. I think you see more in him, though.” Louise explained, with a hug. “Something you just don’t want to accept yet.” 

Stephanie chuckled and shook her head. “Well, Mom, you know me better than I know myself…I don’t know if I know about this.” She smiled and walked out of the kitchen, leaving her mother to her thoughts.

Louise thought to herself. I know what I can see. She chuckled. At the very least, he’s got a crush on her. Wonder if she can see that. She laughed harder. Or if that is going to help in making him feel at home!

Chapter Text

Stephanie walked back to her room when she heard Ivan humming. She halted and turned, following the sweet sound. He was in his guest room, with a stack of papers in one hand and an ink pen in the other. “Ivan?” Stephanie queried. Ivan lifted his head to see her. “Stephanie.” Ivan breathed, setting the papers down on his desk. “What’s going on? You seem thoughtful. More than usual.” 

Stephanie walked into the room slowly, waiting for any protest from Ivan. Ivan ushered her in. “It’s alright.” He encouraged, and Stephanie picked up her pace. She sat down in a recliner by the dresser, and let all of her weight free against the soft cushions. “I have been thinking about something.” Stephanie explained. “Is this something about that new kid?” Ivan asked playfully. “Why do you say that like I have a crush? My mom did the same thing.” Stephanie groaned, her cheeks tinted pink as embarrassment flooded her veins. “Well, I saw him earlier. He was looking at you like he’d seen the most beautiful entity in the world.” Ivan chuckled. “Kind of like how I look at Amita now.” He muttered to himself with a loving grin. 

“Although…You noticed I was thinking about something.” Stephanie explained. “I mean, I’m always thinking, but-“

”Stephanie, Dear, let’s get on with it.” Ivan laughed. “Don’t monologue.” 

“Right, Right.” Stephanie stuttered, and cleared her throat to speak. “Okay, so me and Kioku went to go get drinks and wander for a bit. Tour him through Willow Wands.” Stephanie explained. “He really opened up to me about a couple of things. He mentioned the surges and how they caused his powers to go out of wack. He said how ‘dangerous’ he was. If he’s anything like Rolfe, he can’t be that dangerous.” Stephanie explained. She started rocking in spite of herself. “Then he mentioned a sister. One he misses and evidently still lives back in Japan. He didn’t really tell me much about why he came here specifically, nor why he’s hiding. Like, 40% of the people who live here have powers.” 

“Well, Stephanie, you just answered your own question.” Ivan laughed. “He wouldn’t be prosecuted against as much for his powers if whatever all occurred in that fire is incriminating.” 

“Wait, yeah, you’re right. I’m tired, ahah…” Stephanie laughed. “Anyways, Kioku is just very avoidant. He seems to trust me but doesn’t want to tell me very much.” 

“Well, he’s scared, Stephanie. Think about this. If it was you with such a power that you felt you couldn’t control, and you ran somewhere to start fresh, wouldn’t you be a bit frightened?” Ivan asked, his voice gentle. “Yeah, you’re right. I hope he didn’t think I was coming off too strong.” 

“I doubt it.” Ivan explained. “Just don’t take any distance to heart. Give him some time.” 

Stephanie slumped down into the chair a bit, fidgeting with the fringe on the recliner. She didn’t speak, her mind trailing off to the previous strange memory paired with the olfactory tones. She cringed at the memory of the smell she’d sensed. “Stephanie, what’s wrong? You look like you saw something dreadful.” Ivan asked. He stood up from his chair to check over Stephanie’s paled face. He cupped it gently, thumbing a loose, curly strand from her face. “You look sick. What happened?”

“You know those visions I tend to get? Or was it Adrik I told?” Stephanie asked. “I think you told me once.” Ivan recalled. “Well, you know I get visual and auditory visions. Apparently now I can also get olfactory ones.” Stephanie explained with exasperation. “Because I keep seeing the fire and smelling something weird mixed with the flames.” 

Ivan squinted in confusion. “What kind of weird smell?” Ivan asked. “Something putrid burning. Kind of a coppery, sweet, meaty smell?” Stephanie thought aloud. “Something nasty, that’s all I can say.” She explained with a gag in her throat.

Ivan drifted off into thought. “Strange.” Ivan explained. “We’ll figure it out.” 

He patted her shoulder and reached for a satchel off his coatrack. “But until then, let’s just give Kioku time to adjust before bombarding the boy with questions. Sound good, Stephanie?” Ivan hummed. Stephanie nodded and forced herself off the recliner despite her body’s tired protests. 

“Ok, Kid. Let’s go meet up with the others.”

Stephanie followed him, and started to think of ways to make Kioku feel more at home. She didn’t like how scared he must have felt. How lonely he must be. She felt guilty for possibly pressing him too hard, especially for how sore the subject must have been. Then the thought about his alleged crush on her. That explains him being kind of uncomfortable and comfortable with me all at once. Stephanie thought.

Then what of the sister? She wondered if his sister had something to do with his past. 

Stephanie started to vigorously fidget to take her mind off the questions she desperately wanted to ask. 

“Okay, Okay, Steph.” She told herself. “Give him time.” 

Time was all it was going to take. 

Chapter Text

Later that evening, at sunset…

A dark olive car glided down the sunlit streets, the windows shielding the outside world from who was in the car. 

“Are you feeling ok, Yuka? You’ve been pretty quiet.” A young man’s voice asked from the driver’s seat. 

The girl in the back nodded. “I’m just worried about Kioku. It’s been months and we still haven’t found him. What if he didn’t make it?” She faltered, hunched over in her seat with her hand to her mouth. “Yuka, Yuka, don’t say that!” The driver fumbled, his grip on the wheel tightening ever so slightly as the car picked up speed. “He is immune to his own flames, remember? He can’t be dead.” 

The car stalled on the curb of a restaurant. “Come on, Yuka, let’s just calm down. Get your brothers and let’s get a bite to eat. We’ve reached Willow Wands, we can continue our search in the morning.” The man reassured. The five passengers stepped out of the vehicle. Yuka, and the driver, who was about her age, her little brothers, no more than 11 years of age, and a boy Stephanie and Kioku’s age. They stayed close and entered the restaurant.

After they ordered, the subject landed on Kioku once more. “I can’t help but feel like I failed him. If he is alive, why didn’t he tell me?” Yuka faltered. “Yuka, he was scared. He accidentally hurt people, and you know how he is about that.” The driver explained. 

“Renjiro, he’s never kept anything from me. Ever.” Yuka argued, her emerald eyes weary with unrest and fear. “You haven’t forgiven yourself. You weren’t even involved. It wasn’t your fault. I don’t even think it was his.”

”Please tell me that we will find him here?” Yuka pleaded, clasping a small wallet sized photograph in her pocket. “Trust me, Yuka. I know we will. Have I ever lied to you?” Renjiro asked softly, taking her free hand into his gently. “No.” Yuka smiled, squeezing his hand in response. He brushed a strand of her red hair from her face, and winked.

“I promise, we will find your brother tomorrow. Honest.”

Yuka’s hand trailed back down to her pocket, pulling out the photograph. The one she carried for comfort, of her and her three brothers: Riki, Hiyuri and Kioku. 

“Please come back, Kio. We miss you.” She faltered, as her tears fell onto the small photo and soaked in, staining the images. 

Chapter Text

Back at the house…

Kioku sat in the darkness of the cellar, opening and closing his hand as a dull, orange light flickered in and out of the small space, as Kioku watched the small flame dance in his palm, happily, enchantingly, and then hastily dissolve when he squeezed his trembling fist shut. “Why this power?” He asked himself. He opened his palm again. “It would be so beautiful if it were just this fellow.” He trembled, once again watching the flame, slightly larger, dance wildly on his palm. Then it started to climb down his forearm and off his fingertips. Kioku hastily waved his arm, trying to distinguish the nourished flames. He accidentally set fire to the corner of a nearby box.

”Shit!” He cried out, lunging for the box. He started to hastily stomp on it, hoping to smother the flame. He slumped to the musty floor, with a grunt of frustration. “Everyone else has figured theirs out. Why am I still figuring out my surge?” He asked himself. 

“It could be the fact your main power is an element. I’m still trying to regain a grip on mine. So are Grigori, Beach, and Dmitri.” A voice rang out loudly from behind. Kioku shouted in surprise, leapt two feet into the air and tripped over boxes, knocking them over and sending him crashing further and deeper into the cellar. Kioku lied sprawled out on the cold floor, as several small trinkets, pillows, blankets and dolls rained over him. He heard the footsteps walk towards Kioku, hiding beneath the bedding. Gradually, he felt things get removed until he could see a familiar anthropomorphic wolf’s shadow. “Sorry, Kid.” He laughed awkwardly, holding one of the pillows in one hand and a hello Kitty doll in the other. “Didn’t mean to startle you.” Rolfe explained. “It’s fine. Wouldn’t be the first.” Kioku grumbled, lifting himself off the ground, and grimacing from the dull ache that started to accumulate on his back and limbs. “God, that hurt.” He hissed, falling back onto the floor to wait for the pain to cease. “Need some help?” Rolfe asked shyly, offering his hand. “Happens to me, Steph and Richard all the time.” Rolfe offered. The boy took his hand, and a flame started in Kioku’s hand. “Ah!” Kioku cried out. “It’s fine. I have the same power, remember?” Rolfe asked, opening his own hand to show off his own.

“Right.” Kioku laughed awkwardly. “I’m still used to being the only one in the group with that power.” Kioku explained. Rolfe ruffled his spiky hair and tilted his head towards the door. “Come with me.” Rolfe instructed, a soft grin on his face. Kioku followed the wolf with caution, keeping his own hands close to his chest, balled up tight. “What are you doing?” Kioku asked shyly. “I’m going to help retrain you. Your surges are your essence getting stronger. You need to catch up.” Rolfe explained, opening his palm to set off his own flame. Kioku copied it. “It’s not activating it that’s the problem.” Kioku snapped suddenly. The flame spilled over his palm. “Kioku!” Rolfe gasped, his voice full of panic until he saw Kioku extinguish it. “It’s that.” Kioku explained, his voice cracking. “I can’t use my own damn power without the risk of hurting someone unintentionally.” His fist was balled so tight his knuckles whitened. “You saw what they said in the paper.” He faltered. “I’ve been trying to get a grip on it. Trying to get the flames to do what I want them to, but they all have a mind of their own!” He explained. His arms started to tremble. “I left home because I didn’t want to hurt anyone else…” He whispered, like he was telling himself. “Please, Mr. DeWolfe, I need to do this on my own.” 

“You don’t need to. Here. Let me see your palms.” 

“No!” Kioku snapped, causing the older of the two to recoil. “I appreciate it, I do, but I will get overwhelmed and I will burn the place down. I have heard you guys had three fires here. Do you wish to have a fourth? Because I know what I can cause.” 

Rolfe’s ears twitched in shock, his body stiff from the tone of voice he’d received. “Kioku…” Rolfe asked softly. “Mm?” 

“What…Happened that day?” He asked, his voice was soft, knowing it was a tender subject for Kioku.

Kioku stared for a moment, as he felt his chest tighten up. His head began to swim and his legs began to tremble. He ran, flying up the stairs, the soles of his sneakers barely hitting every other step. “Kioku!” Rolfe hollered, as he tried to chase after the boy speeding up the stairs. 

Rolfe could almost touch the lowest spike of Kioku’s ponytail-

Then the door slammed in his face. 

“Okay, that didn't go as I hoped.” Rolfe muttered to himself. “Maybe I need to find a spot for us…” He told himself as he walked back down the stairs, coming up with his own plans. 

Kioku, meanwhile, sped past the kitchen, and collapsed to the corridor floors, his warm hand clutching at his hoodie. He felt the anguish smothering his airways like smoke, choking him at the throat and squeezing his lungs tight. His entire world became a blur as his head pounded in rhythm. He felt the sweat drift down his back and his heart rattling, skipping beats and trying to keep up with his rigid, loud breath. 

He could see his family. His sister. His brothers. His best friend. His group. 

A soft sob broke in his throat as he tried to force himself to his feet, covering his ears to stop the smoldering flames that he swore he could hear around him. He wanted it to end. He couldn’t run away from his own curse. He slammed against the corridor wall, ignoring the pain that bloomed over his left side. Another sob forced itself from his clenched mouth and he could feel the tears welling at his ducts. He wanted to scream, but he knew it wouldn’t bring any of his normalcy back. He bit his lip until he could taste blood on the tip of his tongue. He couldn’t get rid of the visual of that fire. The one that burned half his city. The one that might have hurt the rest of his group and his siblings. 

The one that…

”Kio!” A voice echoed at the back of his mind. “Muri…” Kioku faltered, squeezing his fists so tight his palms could bruise. “Kioku!” It was not Kemuri.

His eyes refocused to be met with a frantic Stephanie, crouched two feet away from him, and getting increasingly close. “Kioku…You are having a panic attack.” She explained. She held her hands out. “Take my hands.” He hesitantly took them, afraid he’d burn her. “It’s ok. You won’t burn me.” She whispered. “Okay, I need you to breathe. Okay?” She took deep breaths with him, and Kioku nearly wept when he felt his palms growing cooler and cooler. “Stephanie.” He faltered. “Shh.” Stephanie hushed, sitting a mere six inches from him, their faces so close they could almost touch the tips of their noses together. Kioku blushed. “What happened?” Stephanie asked. “Rolfe was trying to train me. He didn’t mean it.” He rasped, grasping his head from the dull ache that now occupied it. “He asked me what happened when I left home.” He whispered. Stephanie gulped and tugged at the collar of her tank top. “Sorry. Want me to talk to him?” 

“No, it’s fine. It’s not like that. I just…don’t like to think about it much.” 

“I understand.” 

He sighed. “I can tell you why I hate my power, why I left, and why I’m laying low, but promise not to have it out yet.” 

“Cross my heart and hope to die.” Stephanie whispered. They stared each other in the eyes. Stephanie took in the sight of those two beautiful green orbs, so full of pain and shame, when Kioku steeled himself to keep from breaking back into tears. 

Kioku took a shallow breath and let the words he’d fixated on for months escape. 

“I accidentally killed my best friend.” 

Chapter Text

Stephanie staggered off her knees when she heard those words. “You…” 

“I did.” Kioku rasped. “When I surged…I lost control. I couldn’t stop it. Kemuri tried, and they…” The self-loathing and anguish cut him off in his throat. He felt nausea rising in his stomach. “Kio?” Stephanie asked, trying to reach out for him. “I understand why people want me gone.” Kioku faltered. He fought back a whimper as he coiled into himself. 

His cries that followed were heartbreaking. Stephanie hugged him, and cupped his face in her hands. “Kioku.” Stephanie whispered. “It’s not your fault. It was an accident.” Stephanie whispered. “It’s always going to be an accident.” Kioku rasped, choking on his own breath. “They are after me because it was an accident.” Kioku sobbed, his voice sharp and broken. “Kio-“

”If I wasn’t a monster, they wouldn’t want me locked away, and they wouldn’t want me dead.” Kioku snapped. “My powers have always frightened most people away. My mom, my dad. Most of society. All but my group, and my sister, and my brothers.” He faltered. “Now look where it got Kemuri. Dead because I hurt them.” 

“Kioku, that wasn’t you, okay?” Stephanie snapped, her voice insistent and firm. “Please, Kioku. Humor me? These things are accidents. Here in this town, our magic is something that is still terrifying, but several people understand it here. You are as much of a hero as we are. I read about some of the good things you did, Kioku.” Stephanie whispered. “I know you. You are not evil.” 

Kioku swallowed hard as he clung to Stephanie, finally accepting everything that had happened. “I didn’t mean to hurt them. I never meant to hurt anyone…I’m sorry.” He sobbed, as his fist gripped at Stephanie’s tank top. Stephanie rested her hand on his back, pulling him closer. “It’s going to be okay. I promise you.” 

They heard someone walking towards them in the corridor. It was Rolfe, who was carrying something in his hand. “You move fast. Didn’t even try to clean up down there in the basement. By the way, I found this down there. Figured it was yours.” Rolfe explained, handing Kioku Kemuri’s earring. 

“Thank you, guys.” Kioku trembled, holding the earring close to his chest. “I didn’t realize how much I needed that.”

”Well, again, you know where to find us if you ever need it again.” Stephanie quipped. Kioku stared for a moment, leaning in closer. Stephanie pulled away a little. “Kio, what’s wrong?” 

Kioku blushed. “Oh. Nothing.” He flustered. “I think we need to go get supper started. Race you two there.” 

Stephanie laughed. “Wait up!” She cried out as she and Rolfe bolted down the corridor after him. “You should join track with me, Kio! Good lord!” She teased, as they left his past in the corridor. 

At least for now. 

Chapter Text

Later…

“So that’s why he hates his powers.” Rachel whispered, as Rhonda cried next to her. “I don’t know why he didn’t tell me.” Rolfe interjected. 

“He was afraid we’d kick him out.” Stephanie explained, pacing as she spoke. Her hands wrung together at her chest, while Kioku stared down at his feet and listened to the conversation. 

“Why would we ever do that to him?” Rachel asked incredulously. “Yeah, this kid is a dream!” Ellie interjected. “I think he’s pretty damn cool.” Lucy added. “That’s what I was telling him. He’s sweet and altruistic.” Stephanie hummed. Kioku blushed. “I understand, though.” Flash added. “It can be painful to be shoved aside for how your powers work.” Flash explained. “I should know. Especially about the abandonment.” 

Kioku recoiled at the last word, fighting the memories. He crossed his ankles, and then tightened his fists when he felt them getting warm. “An’ we’re sorry for your loss, Kid.” Right added, extending his hand. “That sounds like a pretty shitty thing to witness at your age.” 

Kioku shook Right’s hand. “Thank you.” He whispered. 

They heard the portal open up at that moment. Ivan and Amita entered the room. “Hey, everyone. Ah, I see Kioku has been talking. How are you feeling?” Ivan asked gently. “Could be better, but it could be worse, too.” He whispered. Ivan hugged him close. “It’ll get better.” 

Kioku leaned into the embrace. “I feel lighter.” He whispered to himself. “I feel…free.”

Kioku had finally made himself at home. He could feel that he might have found a second family to turn to in his darkest moments. 

He didn’t know another dark shadow was going to loom overhead just as he got settled in. 

Chapter Text

Later that night…

Ivan and Amita lied together, chuckling at anything and everything they said to each other. Amita looked up at Ivan, remembering the events with the group from earlier. “I’m glad to hear that Kioku boy has been opening up.” Amita hummed. “I am, too. The kid needs to let himself feel something other than fear.” Ivan agreed, running his fingers through her hair. “You think he’s going to feel safe here?” Amita asked softly. “I have no doubts. They are skilled at their defenses.” Ivan assured. “And if he has anything to ask, he can just come to me.” 

Amita cuddled closer to him. “You can relate?” 

“Not to his power surges, but feeling scared. Feeling out of place. Feeling like you are something you are not.” Ivan added. Amita flinched at his comments. “Ivy…” She asked, lifting herself up a little to look down at his face. “I think you should listen to your own advice some more…” Amita explained. “You are impeccable at giving advice, but you don’t take your own advice to heart.” 

Ivan looked down at her hands resting limply against his chest. “You don’t have to feel afraid here.” She said, kissing him. Ivan smiled against her lips. “Alright.” Ivan chuckled. “I don’t have any reason to be afraid, do I?” Ivan laughed. His smile faltered slightly. “Although, I may still talk to the kid tomorrow. Just to check on him.” 

Amita lied back down, closing her eyes. Ivan pulled the blanket over her, letting her rest as he gathered his thoughts. 

He had a lot on his mind, and not just the emotional state of the new kid…

Chapter Text

Meanwhile…

Night came by and went quickly, with the gang unaware of the chaos they were about to be plunged back into. It was early morning, Yuka and her crew researched religiously for her younger brother’s whereabouts, finding leads and feeling like they led to nowhere. Yuka had felt her nerves surging and she stormed out of the hotel room, taking a moment for air. She slowed as she reached the balcony, and looked out at the streets below, taking in the calmness of it all. The streets were nearly empty, with only a stray car rushing by only once in a while, or maybe a stray dog skittering along the sidewalks while there was nobody around. The soft hum of wind blew against her ears, and caught on her light blonde hair, as it swayed softly in the breeze. Her face remained blank, like a stone statue. She had cried all of her tears, she believed.

She wandered. She left the hotel balcony and started down the street, listening to the wind rattling through the leaves in the trees and the exhausted thoughts in her mind. She had walked two blocks, reaching the edge of town that Willow Wands had been most known for. She sat down on a nearby bench, as she pulled out her photograph again. Her eyes fixated on Kioku before she held the photograph to her chest, feeling like everything that happened that day was her fault.

Part of her wondered if he hadn’t left because of her. She hoped he didn’t think she was afraid of him, or worse, afraid he would hurt her.  

Then she saw something strange in the corner of her eye. Over at a closed down nightclub across the street, she saw a strange blue mass. She squinted her eyes and snuck over to see what it was. She looked down and saw a familiar blue hoodie. A soft gasp rang in her throat as she knelt down by it. She hastily clutched the charred, smoke scented sweater in her trembling hands, and looked for her brother’s name. “Kioku?” She asked dryly. She ran past the Tiger’s Eye Nightclub and towards the biggest mansion complex she had ever seen. She stumbled into the small parking lot and noticed another form on the complex’s balcony. It was Kioku, staring off into the moonlight, opening and closing his hand to watch his flames, periodically putting them out in a panic. Her left hand flew to her mouth as she sped down the street, holding the hoodie in her other arm as she began hassling to reach the hotel again and tell her friends the news. 

She had once again found her tears. 

Chapter Text

Renjiro was startled by the sound of the hotel door flying open, and Yuka running inside. “Renjiro!” She cried out, her movements frenzied like she’d seen a monster. “I found him!” She cried out wildly, her lips curled into an almost maniacal smile. Riku and Hyuri perked up at their sister’s behaviors and walked over, both worried and overjoyed at the possibility that their brother was nearby. The teenage boy that remained on the bed glared, inching backwards onto it while the other four rejoiced. “How did you find him?” Riku asked excitedly, jumping on his heels and looking up at his sister. “Found this by a nightclub a few blocks from here.” Yuka explained, chucking the hoodie onto one of the beds. The boy picked it up with two fingers, cringed and dropped it. “I hope he burned.” The boy muttered quietly. They didn’t hear him. “I found it and made a run for another one of the buildings. Then I saw him. He was on the balcony of his big complex.”

Renjiro nodded, taking the hoodie into his hands as he plunked onto the bed. “I see.” He studied the smudged handwriting on the blue cloth, before speaking again. “Did you get to talk to him?” 

“Not yet.” She explained. “We can go later on. I know where I saw him.” Yuka explained. 

“Then it’s settled.” Renjiro chirped. “Let’s get some sleep and we get the group back together tomorrow.” 

Everyone had settled down but one, just the one teenage boy full of anger. The only one of the five who didn’t want to find Kioku to reconcile. 

He might as well have been one of the ones Kioku was running from. 

He thought back to the day of that fire. The day so many people became scared of pendant bearers. The day he vowed he would never forgive his friend. A look of grief flashed across his face as he thought of Kemuri, and he tearfully leaned over the hotel balcony. “When I see you, Kioku…we’re done.” He hissed. “I’m not going to be that sweet, shy little Yukio you remember. I won’t forgive anyone this time.” He hissed again, more like he was trying to convince himself. 

“You are a murderer.” Yukio seethed, his eyes wild with rage. “And a murderer needs to be put to justice.” 

He stormed back into the room, and gently shut the door behind him as he put his docile facade back on. 

Chapter Text

The next morning…

Stephanie walked outside the house, holding a watering can. She walked along the windowsills watering the plants, when Kioku stepped out to join her. 

“Hey, Kio. Feeling any better?” Stephanie asked softly, as she knelt down by one of the strawberry plants to tear out a weed. Kioku smiled shyly. “A lot better, actually. It’s kind of nice finding people to relate to.” Kioku explained, observing the plant. He picked a small strawberry off of it. “Do you mind?“ Kioku asked, sheepishly gesturing. “All yours.” Stephanie chirped. “I picked these plants myself.” Stephanie giggled. “You garden, too?” Kioku asked curiously, kneeling down. “Yeah.” Stephanie hummed. “My mom got me into it.” She explained, as she stood up and put the watering can away. “You’re up early, though.” Kioku observed, crossing his arms as he followed her. “Woke up at 6:00. Couldn’t get back to sleep.” Stephanie explained. “Why?” 

Stephanie cringed at the memory of the dream she’d had. “I had one of my dreams.” Stephanie explained. 

“Oh?” 

“Yeah.” Stephanie fidgeted awkwardly. “Kioku, you said something about siblings. Is your sister’s name Yuka?” 

Kioku’s chest tightened as his throat dried. “Uhhh, yeah, why?” Kioku asked anxiously, as he felt the sweat pool on his temples. Stephanie laughed awkwardly. “Well…hehe, I dreamt she and a few others were on the edge of town. And we were with them…” 

Kioku’s face paled. “And what were we doing?” 

“Fighting someone.”

Kioku’s face fell further in a frown of shock and terror. “Whom?” 

Stephanie didn't know the severity of the situation she dreamt about. “I dunno. Some crazy kid about are age. I think his name was…” 

Stephanie trailed off a little bit, trying to find her words. “Yukio, I think?” Stephanie asked. 

Kioku suddenly felt sick. “Y-Yukio?” He stuttered, sounding utterly betrayed. “Kio?” Stephanie trembled. “He’s one of my old crew. He’s a childhood friend.” Kioku explained. “You know what that means, right? I would hope you do since you have visions all the time!” Kioku snapped. “Yes.” Stephanie said dryly.

”It means they are here somewhere in Willow Wands.” 

To be continued.