The wind howled through Sekoto Peak, carrying the scent of burning wood and pine. It was supposed to be abandoned, but to you, Keigo, and Touya, it was home—your own little hideout away from the world.

You met them here years ago. Keigo, the golden-eyed kid with restless wings, had been training under the Commission’s watchful eye, sneaking off whenever he could. Touya, with his fire-warmed hands and stubborn glare, came to push himself harder, chasing a father’s approval that never came. And you? You just liked the quiet.

Right now, though, quiet wasn’t an option.

“You’re gonna kill yourself doing that,” Keigo called, arms crossed as he watched Touya push his flames hotter. The rocky clearing was already scorched from his training. “Again.”

Touya scowled. “Shut up, birdbrain.”

“Not my fault your dumbass doesn’t know limits.”

You sighed, nudging Keigo before Touya could snap back. “Both of you chill.” Then, pointedly at Touya, “Literally.”

Touya huffed, but let the flames flicker out. His breathing was heavier than he let on, shoulders trembling. You noticed. You always did.

Keigo plopped down next to you, wings stretching lazily. “Y’know, one day we should just run away. The three of us.”

Touya scoffed. “And go where?”

Keigo grinned. “Dunno. Just… somewhere. Somewhere better.”

That idea sat between you all, a quiet, unspoken dream.

For now, though, you stayed. Three kids on a lonely mountain, bound together by fire, feathers, and a friendship that felt like it could survive anything.