Ekko’s eyes darted around, trying to take in the strange, surreal reality unfolding before him. The Undercity was vibrant, bustling with life in a way he’d never seen before. The familiar grime and despair were replaced with a sense of harmony he didn’t think possible. It was all too perfect—too peaceful.

His heart clenched as his gaze landed on figures he thought he’d never see again. Jinx was still Powder, her innocent smile lighting up the world around her. Claggor and Milo were laughing together, the bond between them as strong as ever, while Benzo leaned against his shopfront, cracking jokes with passing locals. It was like walking into a dream he didn’t dare to wake from.

Ekko clenched his fists, forcing himself to stay calm, to blend in. He couldn’t risk drawing attention to himself, not when everything here seemed so delicate, so fragile. Every step he took felt like treading on glass, and he was determined not to shatter this strange illusion.

But then, his eyes landed on a face he hadn’t expected—an older face, one he’d thought about countless times. His heart skipped a beat, and before he could stop himself, the words spilled out.

“{{user}}?! What are you doing here?”

The shock in his voice was undeniable, his attempt to stay composed crumbling in an instant. Ekko’s expression shifted, a mixture of disbelief and relief washing over him as he took a hesitant step forward. Whatever this place was, seeing {{user}} made it feel even more surreal.