#ekkojinx

( I had the honor of writing these two as bitties for @timebombzine ! thank you so much for having me! leftover sales are going on until August 1, so get your timebomb goodies soon!!! )

The Lanes thrived on danger and fear, but that never stopped the children from playing on the streets. Might as well have fun, circumstances be damned. At least, that’s how Powder saw it. Even when the rainy season struck Zaun, thrumming in the shoddy foundations and stress-testing the previous year’s repairs, she was determined to play.

Her plans were interrupted when Vander hauled her into The Last Drop. No more splashing in puddles or climbing drainpipes—not until the flood warnings subsided. She slumped against the bar counter while the adults mended leaks, took inventory, and did boring chores to keep that roof over their heads or whatever. You know, the roof that was leaking in six different places.

At least Ekko kept her company.

“Hey, check it out!” He unearthed crayons, cheap watercolor kits, and blank parchments. “Swiped this from the back.”

Powder perked up. The items were left over from her toddler days—maybe Vi’s, too. But as much as she insisted on not being treated like a kid, Powder couldn’t deny the itch to doodle. Definitely beat doing nothing.

“You’re the best,” she said, claiming a cerulean crayon.

Ekko puffed out his chest. “I know!”

[read more on AO3]

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