Archive of Our Own ^beta

Ronin couldn’t remember the first time it happened.

Maybe it was during the aftermath- after Morro was gone, after the battle had ended. When the noise had dulled and the celebration faded, and he was alone for the first time that night. When the weight of the day finally settled into his bones, his veins . When the thought had finally struck him: Morro was gone.

Maybe it was then - when he realized that his little brother was gone. Actually gone. Not just a vengeful ghost with a shattered past. Not the betrayed spirit of a kid who wanted to be chosen. No, Morro was gone. Gone in a way that meant forever. And it haunted Ronin.

Maybe it was when his mind drifted - turned to softer times. Back to when they were just boys. When they ran through the field near their small village, wild and free. When the scent of home- cooked dinner meant their parents were still alive. When Morro’s laughter was real, and not just something that echoed through their hollow house. That high-pitched giggle, full of life, full of love. And full of happier times.

Maybe it was when he opened the doors to his new pawn shop (a legal one this time, thank you very much.) When Nya helped him stock the shelves. When the ninja showed up to celebrate, to support him.

Maybe it was when he started to feel something he hadn’t felt in years - happiness.

Maybe it was when he started to believe he could be free.

Maybe it was in that moment - when his heart leapt to his throat and tears stung his eyes. When he watched, helpless, as Morro - his once wide-eyed, bright-hearted little brother opened the cursed realm. When the preesucculent (or whatever that godawful thing was called.) dragged Morro into the depth of the darkened water. When Ronin screamed, and no one heard. When Ronin had cried for the loss of his brother. A brother he failed to protect.

Maybe it started the moment he had lost his little brother for good.

Maybe that was when the wind began to stir.

Ninjago had finally settled down. Weeks after Morro’s attack, and his death, the city began to move on. People stopped talking about it. The whispers quieted, and Ronin wasn’t surprised. Ninjago had faced monsters and villains more times than he could count. (and he had tried, once. He had.)

His pawn shop had started gaining attraction in the city, thanks - mostly - to the Ninja. Ronin still remembered the first week. The way Nya would swing by casually, just long enough for people to notice. Just long enough to make the shop look interesting. And it had helped. It really did.

And soon… he didn’t have a moment to breathe. People came in at all hours. Asking for lost heirlooms, forgotten childhood toys, old, and hey, probably cursed, artifacts. He had to start scarfing down meals between customers, showing bites of food into his mouth before the chime of the bell yanked him back to work. And he loved it.

And he wouldn’t trade it. Not for anything.

Because for the first time in forever, Ronin was… happy.

He was living the kind of life he had never thought he would.

Ronin was restocking a shelf when the door bell echoed through the cold air of the shop. His headphones rested over his ears, music drowning out the world. The shop was quiet for once - blessedly quietly So.. No customers, no demands, no voices asking for him. Just him. Alone. Able to breathe. Able to clean. Able to exist. Able to wonder and think and dream.

So, when someone tapped his shoulder, he jumped - definitely didn’t scream (Shut it, Nya.) His hand flew to his chest, his heart pounding like a drum under his touch. When he finally opened his eyes. Nya stood in front of him, a proud smirk plastered on her face. Ronin rolled his eyes, but a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

Nya raised a brow, her smirk deepening. He tugged off his headphones, folding and placing them neatly on the shelf.. ‘’What are you looking for today, Nya?’’ She let out a soft laugh, one that reminded him of his little brother. ‘’Nothing today, Ronin. Just wanted to stop by, see how the shop’s doing.’’ Ronin moved behind the counter, his fingers running down the smooth granite. ‘’It’s been quiet today, which is good.’’ He said, ducking behind the desk, shuffling through the storage. Nya leaned against the marble, her eyes watching him. There was a twinkle in her eyes that made him suspicious. His stomach twisting.

‘’I’ve had time to reorganize, clean up a little.’’ He continued, pulling something out from beneath the counter. A small figure, wrapped in ocean-blue paper. ‘’Found this while cleaning. Saved it for you. Had a feeling you’d come by today.’’ He held it out. Her soft fingers brushed against his rough and callous hands as she took it. Nya peeled back the wrapping slowly. Her movements filled with confusion and wonder. And her breath caught when she saw it.

‘’It's… my mom.’’

She ran her thumb over the surface of the old action figure - worn, dusty, but familiar. The metal shimmered under the light of his shop, and the rough paint was cracked. She looked up at Ronin, silent, overwhelmed, and happy. He gave her a small, careful smile. Something to ease the hard ache in her chest.

‘’I found it in the back,’’ he said softly. ‘’Apparently, the previous owner had… an obsession with Elemental Master. Still digging through the rest, but I think there’s one from every Master. From the olden days. The Serpentine War, I think.’’ Nya looked back down at the figure. Her mother. A piece of her stolen past. ‘’...Thank you, Ronin. This…This means a lot.’’ He nodded stiffly, his eyes darted away, guarded. He hated seeing her sad. Hated it even more knowing he was the one that brought that sadness, that grief, forward. He bit at his lip, pain blooming.

‘’If it’s too much.’’ He said quickly, fumbling for a way out. ‘’I - I can take it back-’’

‘’No!’’ She said, a little too fast. ‘’No. Ronin, this is…one of the best gifts anyone’s ever given me. Thank you.’’

He nodded again, more slowly this time. His lips pressed into a thin line.

‘’...You’re welcome.’’

Knowing the ninja was weird.

Not the brave and powerful warriors that Sensei Wu had shaped. Not the fearless heroes who ran headfirst into danger. Or the legends Ninjago called its protectors. No: Ronin knew the real ninja.

Not the stiff, heroic figures they tried (and sometimes failed) to portray. Ronin had grown used to the… more human side of them.

Instead of the impulsive hothead Kai pretended to be, Ronin knew the soft-spoken, thoughtful version. Who had memorized everyone’s coffee order. The Kai who kept up with everyone’s favorite shows and made a point to talk about with them. Like it mattered. Like they mattered. Instead of the overdramatic, easily panicked Jay that people joked about on social media, Ronin knew the sharp, witted Jay. The one who made sure everyone laughed - especially when Ronin didn’t feel like laughing himself. Even if it came at his own expense.

Instead of the confident, immovable Cole, Ronin had grown to know the gentle, uncertain one. The Cole who second-guessed even the smallest ideas, but still showed up without hesitation if someone needed him. Instead of the calm, polished Lloyd the public admired, Ronin had grown to see the scattered, anxious version. The Lloyd who had been cheated out of his childhood. The Lloyd who had become a leader at ten and never stopped running. Who had faced monsters twice his size, and yet never back down, never second guessed himself.

And as Ronin met them - really met them - he didn’t know what to do.

He’d expected cold shoulders, judgement, maybe even silence. He was a bounty hunter with a criminal record. He was someone who had betrayed them in the past- even if he had a good reason. He had expected them to take one easy look at him and decide he wasn’t worth their effort. He thought they’d leave. That being friends with someone like him - a thief, a liar, a man with regret and shame - would only taint their bright, heroic image. They stood for light and justice. He stood for survival and scars. And that never mixed well. Never.

But instead…they stayed. By his side.

Instead of pushing him away, they opened their arms, their hearts. And their home. They joked. They laughed. They welcomed him in with quiet nods and understanding. They didn’t pry, They didn’t push. They gave him space when he needed it. And when he didn’t, when he found himself drifting towards them on the worst days, they listened.

Nya had invited him to the grand opening of a new restaurant when the accident happened.

Ronin had closed his shop early to get ready. He’d smoothed out his clothes, brushed and tied his hair back. (Professionally, of course.) And had double-checked everything in the mirror. Not just because it was a big event, but because tonight, he was the Ninja’s plus one. Cameras were going to be on him all night. Every flash would catch every movement. And people would be watching - searching for the old, rugged, criminal they came to expect. That they knew. Not the new Ronin. Not the one who smiled more freely. Who walked without chains. But with freedom.

He straightened his tie one more time before the honk of a car shattered the quiet air of his small house. Taking one last glance in the mirror, he smoothed his jacket and gave his reflection a firm nod. His heart pounded in his chest, his nerves humming under his skin.

What if he messed up?

What if he tainted the Ninja’s reputation?

What if he lost the only true friends he’d ever had?

Ronin couldn’t let those thoughts take root. He’d be on his best behavior. He’d prove - if only to himself - that he was worthy of their trust, their time, their understanding, and their friendship. That he wasn’t a lost cause that they should have left behind. He grabbed his keys from the bowl on the entryway table and opened the door. A cool night breeze swept over him, and he drew in a slow, steady breath

He could do this.
The door shut behind him with a soft click, and he locked it. At the end of the driveway sat a sleep back limo. Its windows were rolled down, and music thumped from the speakers. A small, happy grin tugged at Ronin’s lips.

Yeah, he could do this.

The ride was wild and loud. Music blared as they wove through the glowing streets of Ninjago. People scattered along the paths. The Ninja pasted drinks around - laughing, shouting over the bass. Ronin nursed a Virgin Mary, the deep red liquid sparkled under the light. The liquor swirled in his cup as he stirred it absentmindedly. His anxiety twisted in his gut, but he kept it hidden. The last thing he wanted was for them to worry.

Kai sat beside him, his red suit brushing against Ronin’s arm. The contact alone was enough to make his cheeks flush. Kai’s voice cut through the music. Loud and boisterous. ‘’So, I’m face to face with this little villain - this dude has wings, I think. And right in the middle of the fight, he just coos at me!’’ Kai snorted, grinning so wide that it reached his eyes. His drink sat lazily in his hands. The liquid slashing as the car moved.

Ronin’s brows shot up. ‘’Wait.. You met Fuji Dove?’’ Kai turned, his eyes wide. ‘’That’s his name?!’’ Ronin stifled a laugh behind his hand. ‘’Yeah. He thought cooing would intimidate people.’’ Kai threw his head back in laughter. ‘’Oh - oh, that’s gold!’’ Ronin shook his head, his eyes drifting towards the others. Lloyd leaned in, curiousness shining in his eyes. ‘’How do you know Fuji Dove, Ronin?’’ Ronin’s lips pressed into a thin line. The memories rose fast. ‘’I met him the first time I was arrested. He was my cellmate for a while. I was released soon after.’’

Lloyd nodded thoughtfully. ‘’Did you stay in touch after you got out?’’ Ronin shook his head. ‘’Nope. Made sure not to.’’ Nya blinked, a flicker of confusion in her eyes. ‘’What happened?’’ Ronin opened his mouth to answer - but nothing came out. Just silence. ‘’It…was a long time ago. I hardly remember.’’ Her gaze lingered on him, but she didn’t push. ‘’Okay.’’

The conversation shifted. And the ninja got lost in their own side chats again, their laughter echoing off the limo walls.

Ronin turned to the window. His reflection stared back, dim and silent. The memories tugged harder now. Of coming home after long shifts. Of a small boy waiting at the door of his house, his eyes full of curiosity. Or Morro asking question after question while Ronin made dinner. Of his soft laughter and warm lights.

Ronin wiped his eyes quickly, roughly. He couldn't cry. Not here. Not now.

‘’We’re here,’’ someone said. ‘’Let’s show the world our support.’’

The table was littered with dishes.

Ramen, sushi, tempura, soba, udon, tonkatsu, oden.

Ronin looked around, his mouth watering. The bright, rich smells swirled around him, and for a second, only a second. He didn't know what to do. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d had a warm meal like this - one that wasn’t on the go or out of a can. The ninja took their seats, nameplates gleaming with the elegant swirl of letters. Ronin’s spot was between Jay and Kai (not bad company really.)

A smug grin tugged at Kai’s lips as he reached out and pulled Ronin’s chair back. ‘’For you, kind gentlemen.’’ Ronin rolled his eyes, but he took the seat anyway. ‘’Why, thank you, young man. What can I do to replay such a noble act?’’Kai pushed the chair in, his grin widening. ‘’Oh, I can think of something…’’ His voice was etched with enticement. Lloyd cleared his throat loudly. ‘’Behave, you two. You can flirt on the ride back.’’ Ronin stifled his laugh with his hand. Kai took his seat beside him, his eyes lingering, and Ronin felt heat rise on his cheeks. ‘’When does the grand opening actually start?’’ He asked, trying to change the subject. ‘’In about thirty minutes.’’ Cole replied, a teasing glint in his voice. ‘’Why? You got someplace better to be?’’ Ronin gave a tired smile. ‘’Yeah. My bed. It’s been calling my name all day.’’ Cole rolled his eyes. From the corner of his eye, Ronin caught Kai’s amused eye roll too. He could help but chuckle quietly to himself.

‘’We’ll make a short appearance.’’ Lloyd added after a moment. ‘’Thirty minutes. Maybe an hour tops. Most of us want to be home to.’’ Ronin nodded, letting his gaze wander. People were pouring into Suisei Roketto. (彗星ロケット). - The Comet Locket . Elegant outfits, sharp suits, and gowns that glittered in the moonlight. He bit his lip as Cyrus Borg entered, his sleek grey suit catching the light. PIXAl stood behind him, calmly pushing his wheelchair. Reporters swarmed, and cameras flashed. Ronin looked away fast, shame tightening in his gut. The lights dimmed slightly and a spotlight hit the stage set at the front of the restaurant. The sounds of gentle tapping on glass filled the room. A woman stepped forward, a microphone in her hand.

‘’Thank you all for coming to the grand opening of Suisei Roketto!’’ Applause echoed around the space. ‘’And thank you to the ninja for being here to show their support. Even if they do bring…questionable quests.’’ Ronin sank a little in his seat, his cheeks burning with embarrassment. He didn’t need to look to feel the tension in the ninja around him. The owner chuckled, waving a hand. ‘’But that’s not what tonight’s about! This restaurant was a challenge to build. Villains, near-death experiences, destruction- but here we are, three years later!’’ She flashed a radiant smile to the crowd. Her golden dress glimmered under the lights.

‘’This place is dedicated to the ninja and everything they’ve done. Especially during the Morro crisis. That one was tough.’’ Ronin sucked in a breath, his vision going glossy, his ears screaming as the cruel reminder ran through the room. ‘’But hey, who’s glad that guy is gone?’’ The owner continued, her laughter echoing mockingly in his ears. ‘’Maybe now we’ll finally get the peace we’ve wanted since Lord Garmandon.’’ Ronin’s hands clenched into fists. His chest tightened, and his stomach bubbled with shame and fury. His veins prickled. And outside, the wind began to pick up.

He slammed his eyes shut, his breathing turning erratic. stop, he begged. please stop.

But the wind didn’t listen. It howled. Angry and bitter.

The restaurant doors opened with a bang. Leaves swirling into the entryway, people gasped as murmurs broke into the air. ‘’Well- uh- looks like we’ve got some special effects tonight!’’ The woman joked, her voice wobbling as her grip tightened on the mic in her hands. Ronin’s breath quickened, shallow and full of dread. His heart thundered in his chest. No. No, this wasn’t how it was supposed to go. The wind worsened, and murmurs shifted to panic, the speaker stammered. ‘’E-everyone evacuate! Please head to the back doors!’’

Chairs scraped back. And people rushed. The ninja stood to help ushering them out.

Ronin stayed frozen. Torn. He wanted to help. He wanted to. But… he was the one causing this. His eyes flickered towards the doors. He could run. No one would know. No one had to know it was him. He could disappear, leave this whole mess behind.

Leave the ninja behind.

But what else could he do? He was the problem. Ronin shut his eyes. He turned- and ran.

Ronin ran. Hard and fast. He ran until his knees buckled, and his lungs burned. He ran until the storm in his head dolled to a whisper. Until his legs didn’t know where they were going anymore. Until the world blurred and all he could feel was motion. He ran until he thought he was safe. But Roni was never safe. The wind followed him -sharp and violent, biting at him, like it knew him. Like it wanted something from him. His eyes squeezed shut, and his fear was too loud to see past. Tears clinging to his lashes as he ran.

He wished for it to stop. The wind. The power. The grief. He wished the powers would vanish. That the wind had never found him. That his little brother was still alive. That the good memories would drown out the bad. That his parents hadn’t died. That someone -anyone - was still there for him. But no one was. His parents were dead. His brother was dead. And Ronin was alone in this cruel, unforgiving world.

The restaurant’s owner’s words echoed through his mind: Who’s glad he’s gone?

Who was glad?

Ronin sure as hell wasn’t.

He missed Morro. The young, full of wonder- Morro - before the powers, before Wu, before destiny and death and everything in between. He missed his little brother’s laugh, bright and wild. He missed the sparkle in his eyes when he explained how he thought machines worked. He missed the kids who followed him around asking a million questions about engines, tools, and life. He missed his parents, too. The security they once gave.

He missed his momma’s soft, sleepy cuddles. His dad’s quiet voice saying it would all be okay before he left with his uniform. He missed being tucked into bed, his mother’s humming easing him to sleep, his father’s finger’s brushing through his hair one last time.

He missed warmth. He missed safely. He missed love.

So he ran. Hard and fast.

Until he stumbled into an alley, dark and forgotten. The streetlights were busted. Broken glass glittered like frost on the cracked pavements. But Ronin didn’t care. He dropped to his knees. His fingers twisting in the fabric of his shirt. His breaths hitched- shallow, rapid, hollow. His heartbeats thundered in his ears. The tears tried to rise again, thick in his throat, but he forced them down. He dug his fingers through his hair, trying to calm the spiral in his chest.

It. Didn’t. Work.

Images of his mother flashed behind his eyes- smiling, gentle, real. It hurt. It burned. A sob rose, and he swallowed it.

stop.

stop.

stop.

STOP.

His mind screamed. Begged. Pleaded.

He wished he never met the ninja. He wished he’d never looked for Morro. He wished that Soul Archer had never found him. He wished he’d never been born into this mess. He wished his parents had lived. Ronin’s fingers tangled tighter into his hair, his eyes wide and wild. Full of danger. He needed this curse to stop, but it wouldn’t. Because they were a curse . A cruel reminder of everything he’d lost. Of what morro had become. Of how he’d died. Of what he had lost his brother to.

A whimper escaped him. The panic returned like a flood. His vision blurred. The wind howled. It surged around the alley like it could feel his fears. Like it was his fear. He tried to reach for something- anything. But there was nothing. No one.

He was alone. His vision dimmed. The wind screamed louder. The last thing Ronin saw was the empty alley.

The room was warm when he woke up.

A soft groan slipped from Ronin’s lips, and his eyes squeezed shut. Tiredness pulled at him like gravity. He wanted to sleep again, to fall back into the quiet nothingness. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d slept that soundly. (It had been a long time.). And he didn’t want it to end.

But the softly clicking of a door opening pulled him back to consciousness. The harsh overhead lighting blurred his vision, he clenched his eyes tight. Footsteps echoed gently in the dark room, and the sudden warmth of a hand on his forehead startled him. ‘’Good morning, Ronin. I hope you slept well.’’ The voice was familiar. Too familiar even. It pulled at old distant memories that he had hoped that would have stayed buried. ‘’You caused quite a stir last night. The ninja searched for you for hours after you ran out of the restaurant.’’ Ronin’s heart sank. And his eyes clenched tighter. ‘’I had to let them know I found you, so they’d stop looking.’’ A sigh slipped out before Ronin could stop. Slowly, he opened his eyes. ‘’Well… it’s good to see you again, old friend.’’ Ronin frowned at the sight of Cyrus Borg, his eyes were filled with worry as his hands ran down the metal of his wheelchair. PIXAL stood behind him, his arms crossed, her gaze sharp but concerned. ‘’Wh….where am I?’’ Ronin gasped, his throat dry. Cyrus chuckled lightly. ‘’You, my dear friend, are in BORG Tower. Ronin’s eyes went wide. ‘’Wh…what?’’ Cyrus titled his heart. ‘’You’re in BORG Tower. Asleep in one of our many quest rooms.’’

‘’Why?’’ Ronin blinked hard, the memories of the night before coming in pieces. Cyrus’ expression grew distant. ‘’Because you fainted in an alley.’’ Ronin bit his lip. ‘’I like that alley…actually. It was quiet. Quite Depressing.’’ Cyrus rolled his eyes. ‘’Oh, you have not changed much, my friend.’’ Ronin turned his face away, shame burning deep in his chest. ‘’You can go. Borg. I already know what you’re going to say.’’ He felt Cyrus’ stare, steady, patient, and hard. His gaze bore down on him.

‘’And what do you think I’m going to say? Since you know me so well? Ronin could hear the sarcasm in his friend’s voice. The annoyance laced with worry. ‘’That you’re ashamed of me.’’ A bitter laugh tore from his throat. ‘’I mean, I had such a bright future ahead of me. And look at me now, a cold, cruel, and useless monster.’’ He closed his eyes, unwilling to meet Cyrus’ gaze. The sound of Cryus scoffing echoed off of the clean walls. ‘’You are really idiotic sometimes.’’ Ronin turned his head sharply, confusion etched in his face. ‘’What do you mean?’’

‘’I mean,’’ Cyrus said, exasperated, ‘’You must be really foolish if you think that’s what I think.’’ Ronin bit his lip, his eyes filled with bewilderment. ‘’That’s what everyone else thinks…’’ Cyrus raised an eyebrow, his arms crossing over his chest irritation laced in his movements . ‘’And when was I like everyone else?’’ Ronin opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. ‘’Now listen here, you halfwit,’’ Cyrus muttered, his tone sharp, his eyes blazing. ‘’You are not- by any stretch of the word- a monster. You are a man who did what he had to do in order to survive.’’

‘’I hurt people, Cyrus!”’

‘’And do you regret?’’

Ronin blinked. ‘’Wh… what?’’ Cyrus stared at him evenly. ‘’Do. You. Regret?’’Ronin gaped. ‘’Are you serious? That doesn’t mean anything! I still did it! I almost let Kai drown-’’

‘’Give me your hand.’’

‘’What?’’ Ronin flinched. ‘’Give me your, Roni.’’ Hesitating, Ronin extended his hand. And Cyrus took it gently, his fingers warm. Ronin didn’t know what to do with the tenderness. Cyrus studied his palm, his brows furrowed in concentration. ‘’Hmm..I don’t see any…’’

‘’See what?’’ Ronin asked, frowning. Cyrus traced a line with his thumb. ‘’I don’t see any.’’

“‘’Any what?’’

‘’Monster lines.’

Ronin blinked, then rolled his eyes. ‘’You’ve gotta be kidding me, Cy-’”

‘’No, Ronin. Look.’’ Cyrus held up Ronin’s palm. ‘’This line means you’re brave. This one means you’re strong. Oh- and this one?’ That’s for being smart. Which, for the record, is very true.’’ Cyrus looked up at him, seriousness written over his face. A small, playful smirk spread across his face. ‘’But no matter how hard I look… I can’t find a single monster line…’’ Roni snorted. ‘’Cy, come one. Stop acting childish.’’

‘’You’ve been through hell, Ronin.’’ Cyrus cut in, his tone soft now. ‘’You lost your brother. Three times. You lost both of your parents before you could even drive. You’ve been arrested. Hurt. Abandoned. You did what you had to in order to survive.’’ Ronin’s breaths hitched, tears pooling in his eyes. He rubbed them away harshly. ‘’And if you regret it- good. That means you still have a heart. You still have empathy. That means you’re still good hearted.’’ Cyrus pointed at Ronin’s chest, the pressure was grounded.

Ronin shook his head, his voice barely above a whisper. ‘’Cy…you don’t know understand.’’ Cyrus met his eyes. ‘’Then let me understand.’’ Ronin drew in a shaky breath, his shoulders trembling. ‘’I don’t know I can.’’

‘’And that's okay. Because I will be here whenever you’re ready. I’ll be here. Because that is what friends do.’’

Ronin stared at the back wall of his bedroom. His mind wandered- to the past, to the present. A bottle of unopened whiskey sat beside him. His forearms pressed to his knees, his cheeks streaked with dried tears. Cyrus’ words echoed in his ears.

You did what you had to in order to survive.

That much was true. But how much of it had really been for survival? How much was for his own benefit? (Too much of it.) How much of it was greed? Selfish want? And how much of it- how fucking much- was just him desperatly trying to find his brother? Trying to piece together the family they had lost?

Ronin didn’t know anymore.

His phone buzzed beside him. Another message. Probably from the ninja. Again. He didn’t bother. The screen was already full of their texts. He didn’t answer, couldn't bring himself to. He ran his fingers through his hair and let out a shaky breath. He missed them (Which surprised him. But also…not really.) He missed their warmth, their compassion, their dumb jokes. He missed the way Nya would flash him small smiles when he joined their training. The jokes Jay would whisper to him when he looked like he was having a rough day. The looks Kai would give me.

He missed Cole’s grounding presence. Zane’s calm words. Lloyd’s steady encouragement.

He missed his friends.

He missed his happiness.

He missed everything.

But he couldn’t let them get close. Not now. Not like this. Not when he was a ticking bomb of regret and shame and fear. He couldn’t risk them getting hurt because of his reckless past. He had to leave- to stay gone- even if it tore him apart inside. And it was. It was destroying him. Every time he looked at his phone, the same phone the ninja had gifted him, covered in stickers and colors and memories, and his heart cracked a little more.

Ronin, where are you? Are you okay?

Ronin, we’re worried. Please answer.

Ronin, we’re your friends. Please don’t shut us out…

And…the one that broke him. That tore his heart out, and made the hurt, hurt more-

You’re one of my closest friends, Ronin. A mentor maybe, too. And I hope you realize how much we need you. I don’t think you know how much hope and light you brought to this team, and I don’t think we knew how much we were missing that until you showed up. So please, please answer. I need you. And I miss you.

Ronin had cried when he read that one.

His fear, his guilt, the overwhelming regret. It all erupted at once. He collapsed onto his bed and buried his face in his hands. He sobbed until his chest ached. Until his throat was raw. Until there were no more tears left. Nya’s message had shattered him. And for a second, just a second. He almost replied. He almost told her everything. About his past. About Morro. And the pain he never shared. He almost told her about the wind powers. About why he was running. About how he was so terrified he was turning into what his brother had become. But he didn’t. Because he couldn’t. Because if he had told her- to them, all of them- they would have turned their backs on him.

Because he was the brother of a killer. A monster. A villain. And that went against them. Their foundation, their purpose.

And now he laid curled up on the floor, the whiskey still untouched, his cheeks stiff with dried tears. His body was too tired to cry anymore. But his heart still ached for the tears.

The days wore on, and the shop grew busy. Ronin kept himself moving. Kept his hands busy. Kept his thoughts anywhere but where they wanted to go.

To the ninja.

To his brother.

His parents.

To everything he couldn't fix.

He stayed focused. Sharp. In control. And it worked. For a while.

Until Nya showed up.

Ronin tried to duck out of sight, slipping behind a rack of old parts and half-repaired junk. But Nya found him anyway. (Of course she did. She was a dang ninja. He’d never stood a chance of hiding.) Still, he’d tried. And she saw right through it. Her eyes landed on him, and he saw the worry and hurt flash through them.

‘’Come one. Talk to me. You know you can.’’ Nya pushed gently at first. Then harder, and harder. Until the pressure grew, and the cracks expanded. And Ronin hated it. Hated how much it hurted. Hated how much he wanted to talk. ‘’Nya- I- I can’t. Not this time.’’

‘’Why?’’ Her voice cracked, frustration and hurt mixing together. ‘’What could be so bad that you can’t tell me? I’m your friend, Ronin. I know about your past. I’ve accepted it. There’s nothing- nothing- that could make me think less of you.’’ She took his hands in hers, firm and steady. ‘’I’m here. I’m listening. You can talk to me.’’ Ronin stared at the floor. His eyes burned, and tears welled up before he could stop them. ‘’Nya…’’ His voice broke. ‘I wish I could. I desperately wish I could tell you. But I can’t. You have to understand that. ’’

She went quiet. Took a long, deep breath. Her jaw clenched. Annoyed, worried and concerned. ‘’Okay.’’ she said quietly. ‘’I’ll stop pushing…for now.’’ She squeezed his hands once. And then she was gone.

Ronin crumbled as the door chimed behind her. He curled into himself in the back room of the shop. He cried because he hated himself. Hated that he was making Nya worry. Hated that he was making the ninja fear for him. He hated the powers that buzzed beneath his skin and in his veins. Wild and uncontrollable. He hated those powers- this curse that was claiming his mind and soul. They were Morro’s power. His little brother’s powers. No, they were his curse. and Ronin had stolen them. Just like he’d stolen everything else in his life. Morro should still be here. Morro should've gotten to use his powers for good. He should've had the chance. Yet, Ronin had been left behind. With the guilt. With the wind whispering through his bones like a ghost that wouldn’t rest.

He didn’t deserve them.

He never had.

Ronin tried to act normal

But it was hard.

It was hard knowing that one wrong word could send him spiraling. That one offhand comment about his little brother could trigger an aftershock of power he couldn't fully control. It was hard needing help- and not asking for it. It was hard when the ninja dropped by, their eyes lingered on him a little too long.

He wore gloves now.
He kept his anger in check. His fear. His sadness. He stopped staring at the old picture of Morro for too long. He stopped visiting his parents' grave as often. Stopped letting his mind wonder to the what if’s.

And he hated it.

But this was his life now.

Cyrus checked in on him from time to time. Always in disguise. A cap pulled low, an old shirt, sunglasses that seemed too big for his face. And an old and rusted wheelchair. The same one he had when they were in high school together. Back when times were similar. Easier. Happier.

As Ronin was dusting a high shelf, the bell rang over the shop door chimed. A voice, soft, and cracking with age called out through the mostly empty shop.’’Is this Ronin’s expandables?’’ Ronin set the rag down and turned. ‘’That’s what the sign says. What can I help you with?’’ An older woman stepped fully inside, her eyes sharp despite her age. She glanced around, her hand drifting to her pocket- and Ronin tensed. But it was just a folded slip of paper. Ronin exhaled. ‘’My husband and I are looking for a Traditional Fixed Voltage Alternator, one with a voltage around 13.8. And a downflow radiator. Aluminum, if possible.’’

Ronin blinked, That wasn’t beginner-level car talk.

‘’You’re after a traditional alternator, not a smart one. Voltage of 13.9, give or take. And yeah ... aluminum downflow, not a crossflow.’’ The women nodded. And Ronin hummed and made his way to the back. ‘’That’s some heavy-duty stuff,’’ he called out. ‘’You restoring something vintage?’’ A low chuckle came from the front. ‘’My husband found this old beat-up car last week. Thought we’d fix it up and give it to our son.’’ Ronin rummaged through the shelves. ‘’Lucky kid. He’s got good parents. Should be hella proud.’’

‘’Thank you, young man.’’ He dropped the stator into the bag that hung from his forearm. ‘’No need to thank me. You and your husband seem like good people.’’ His gaze landed on the downflower radiator. ‘’You’re such a kind young man.’’ The woman said, her voice softer. ‘’Your parents would be proud of what they raised.’’ Ronin froze. The words struck like a bolt of the chest. His breaths caught, and his hands trembled. He could feel the wind stirring beneath his skin. Burning through his veins. ‘’Um… thank you, Ma’am…’’ He managed to choke out, his voice tight.

He snatched the downflow and shoved it into the bag. His feet moved in instinct, carrying him back to the counter. His fingers moved quickly. ‘’That’ll be six hundred. But..for you, I’ll drop it to four-fifty.’’ She pulled out her wallet, setting the money down on the counter. Ronin slid the money towards himself, nodding. ‘’It’s plenty. I hope you have a good day.’’ Ronin stood there, watching the door swinging shut behind her. And then he sighed, deep. Shaky. And uncertain.<

He didn’t know how much longer he could hide.

Ronin pulled the handle of the door, checking that it was locked. The moon hung low in the sky, and tiredness tugged at the corners of his eyes. He slipped the keys from the lock and buried them deep in his pocket. A low sigh escaped his lips as he started walking. The night’s air bit cold against his skin as he made his way through the quiet streets of Ninjago. Distant cars rumbled by, the only sound in the hush of the city. Ronin’s hands were shoved deep in his jacket pockets. The rough winds scraped against his skin, and he tried- really tried- to calm the ache in his heart. To settle the fear. The anger. But they clawed their way up his throat like they had minds of their own. His firsts clenched in his pockets, frustration bubbling under the surface. He huffed, a harsh breath escaped him as the cold seeped into his bones.

‘’Ronin? Is that you?’’ His shoulders stiffened. He knew that voice. He knew it too well. Too, too well. He turned slowly. Fugi-Dove stood behind, his eyes wide with surprise. His wings were ruffled, and his chest frantic with each breath he took. ‘’It’s been a long time, Ronin!’’ He chirped, his wings spreading wide as he circled around him. ‘’W-well. Hello, Fugi.’’ Ronin stammered out. ‘’I haven’t seen you since you were twenty-one, and all I get is stuttered-out hello?’’ Fugi-Dove teased, his grin too bright for the dark streets. Ronin backed away slightly, his hands raised in a vague, defensive gesture. ‘’You startled me. That’s all.’’ Fuji cocked his head to the side. Ronin slowly let his hands fall again. ‘’Hello, Fugi.’’ He said more clearly. ‘’It’s been a long time.’’ Fugi-Dove smiled. ‘’It has! And I’ve been surprised. I heard all about your battles and crimes from the folks at Kryptarium. But now I hear you’re rolling with the Ninja? Is it all true?’’

Ronin rolled the back of his neck, heat creeping into his cheeks. ‘’Yeah…’’ Fuji raised an eyebrow. ‘’Both things? You really went from prison to ninja?’’ Ronin nodded. ‘’Yeah. I did…I had a dark time. A lot of bad choices. A lot of time spent behind bars.’’ Fugi’s eyes lit up. ‘’Oh! If I'd known, we could’ve worked together! You and me- partners in crime! Our cries echoing through the night!’’ He bounced on the balls of his feet, giddy. Ronin shook his head. ‘’You remember what I told the night I left Hryptatium.?’’ Fuji rolled his eyes. ‘’Of course. But you didn’t stick to it.’’

‘’I did.’’ Ronin’s voice hardened ‘’I called it a dark time for a reason, Fuji.’’ Fugi-Dove’s shoulders tensed. ‘’Oh, come on! You must’ve had some fun!’’ Ronin clenched his fists, pushing past him. ‘’I didn’t.’’

‘’Ronin! Stop lying! You must’ve enjoyed it, or else why’d you keep doing it?’’ Ronin clamped his hands over his head, squeezing his eyes shut. The wind stirred in his veins. He could feel it- pulling, itching, rising. He had to stop it. He had to. Needed to. ‘’Fugi-’’

‘’No! Listen to me! You promised me that we’d be legends! You could've been the mastermind of the group, Ronin! You and me, like the-uh…- the Awful Guys or something!’’ Ronin paused mid-step glancing over his shoulder. ‘’You mean The Bad Guys? The Children's book?’’ Fugi-Dove snapped his fingers (wings?). ‘’Yeah! That one!’’ Ronin shook his head, almost laughing. ‘’No, Fuji. We couldn’t. I didn’t want that life.’’

‘’But you had it! You can’t tell me you don’t miss it?!’’

‘’I don’t!’’ Ronin’s voice cracked. The window picked up, spiraling around his boots. His chest heaved. ‘’Fugi, stop!’’ But he didn’t. ‘’You would’ve been a great crime lord! Think about it! You leading, me co-leading. We could’ve had-’’

‘’No!’’ Ronin spun, shouting out in the cold and quiet night air. The wind howled around him. ‘’Fugi! I don’t want that life! I didn’t want a life like yours.’’ Ronin slapped his hands over his mouth, his eyes wide with regret. ‘’Fugi…’’ Fugi-Dove stepped back. His smile vanished, replaced by something raw and hurt. ‘’...Excuse me…’’

‘’I didn’t want that life.’’ Ronin whispered. ‘’I had someone who needed me. That’s why I wanted to leave it all behind.’’ He swallowed hard. ‘’And then-’’ His voice cracked. ‘’I…I can’t, Fugi…’’ His eyes brimmed with tears, too many memories crowding his mind and veins.

He turned and ran.

Like he always did.

Ronin ran until he found comfort.

He ran until his heart stopped hurting and his mind stopped spinning.

He ran until he reached BORG tower.

He didn’t know why he went there. (Actually, he did.)

But still, he went. And for some strange reason, he saw the lights on Cyrus' office, his heart finally began to calm down. The wind around him eased and his mind quieted. Ronin’s hands still shook at his sides, his nerves wild and untamed. But, for the first time since discovering that Morro’s powers had passed to him, he felt calm. He felt safe. He felt like he wasn’t a danger to anyone anymore. Ronin didn’t know how or why, but somehow, he walked through the front doors of BROG towers.

He didn’t know why no one stopped him.

He didn’t know why he'd managed to ride the elevator all the way up.

And he didn’t know why now standing outside of Cyrus’ office doors, staring at them like they held all the answers. His firsts were raised, ready to knock on the wood doors. What was he going to do? He wasn’t sure. But he was here.<

Outside of the doors, he never thought he’d stand in front of these doors again. Ronin took a deep breath and he let his hands fall back. He was going to knock. Yeah. That’s what he came here for. Before he could, the doors opened. PIXAl stood there, tilting her head slightly. ‘’You were standing out there for a while. Were you planning on coming in at all?’’ Ronin blinked. ‘’I- well… how did you know?’’ PIXAL tilted her head more. ‘’We saw you on the cameras. Made sure no one stopped you..’’

So that’s how he made it up here without being questioned.

Ronin unclenched his fists, letting them drop to his sides. ‘’Ahem. Well. Thank you.’’ His voice came out in a whisper. Uncertain, strained. Fearful. ‘’Are you going to come in?’’ PIXAl asked again, her tone dripping with bewilderment. Ronin jumped, nodding quickly. ‘’Yep. Yep. Yes. I am.’’ PIZAL stepped aside and let him through. She closed the door behind him as he walked in. His steps were quiet, almost shy. His eyes swept through the room, wide with wonder at all the tech. It hadn’t changed much.

Cyrus was leaning against a central table, where two cups sat untouched. ‘’Come sit, Ronin,’’ He said softly. ‘’I think I know what you want to talk about.’’ Ronin’s shoulders tensed, but he walked forward and sat down. PIXAL gave Cyrus a look, then quietly exited left them alone, the sound of the door closing was loud in the once quiet room. Ronin toyed with the hem of his shirt, his anxiety clawing back through his chest. Cyrus cleared his throat. ‘’Do you want to talk about it?’’ Ronin stared at him, then he took another deep breath. ‘’Morro’s powers chose me. I guess… I guess I’m the next Elemental Master of Wind. Well- ‘chose’ is a weird word. I guess they were passed down to me… since…Morro was my little brother. So…well passed up? Since I’m the older one? I mean-’’

‘’Ronin. Stop.’’

He stopped. Immediately. Cyrus' gaze flickered down. ‘’Is that why you’re wearing gloves?’’ Ronin followed his eyes to his hands. ‘’It helped Morro. I thought it might help me.’’ Cyrus raised an eyebrow. ‘’You thought…?’’ Ronin scratched the back of his neck. ‘’It hasn’t.’’ Cyrus sighed, settling back into his chair. ‘’That… makes a lot of sense.’’ Honestly, I thought you’d gone back to being a criminal.'' Ronin wrinkled his nose. Disgust shining across his face. ‘’I never would. I hated that part of my life.’’ Another raised eyebrow. ‘’Then why didn’t you leave it behind?’’ Ronin traced the rim of his cup. ‘’When I left Kryptarium for the first time. After the shop lifting incident, I told Fugi-Dove I’d never make a life out of crime.’’ Cryus crossed his arms over his chest. ‘’And yet you did.’’ Ronin inhaled sharply. ‘’Yeah. I did.’’ He looked out of the high- rise window, his voice lowered. ‘’My parents died when I was sixteen, Cyrus. You…rememeber. You were at their funeral.’’

~ 🍃 ~ 🍃 ~ 🍃 ~ 🍃 ~

Ronin and Cryus spent the night together- huddled on the couch, blankets draped over their bodies as the night air grew colder. Cheesy rom-coms played quietly in the background as they walked. They spoke of old memories. Old wishes. And old dreams. They walked about their school days, the afternoon they once spent planning for a future.

A future where they were still together.

A future where their dreams might have come true.

Ronin leaned his head against Cryus’ shoulders. The first hits of the sunlight crept over the horizon, but he didn’t care. For one night, he let himself dream without fear. For one night, the nightmares didn’t wake him screaming. For one night, he could let himself think he was safe. Cryus laughed softly, his shoulders shaking, and Ronin buried his face against his friend’s shoulder blade. A small, content smile tugged at his lips.

He could feel Cyrus’ fingers through his hair, the soft, rhythmic motion sending heat to his cheeks. A heat he thought he’d buried long ago. He pressed his face deeper into Cyrus’ shoulders. He could hear the faint thumping of Cyrus’s heart as he drifted off, but Ronin didn’t mind.

He was safe.

Safe in the arms of someone he thought he’d last long ago.

Of someone who he thought would stay a memory.

Ronin snuggled closer, a deep sigh escaping him. He could get used to this again. He felt Cryus’ hand drift lower, warmth spreading across his cold skin, and shivers danced along his spine. His fingers trailed along Cyrus’ side.

‘’Do you remember when we use to cuddle like this, back when we-’”

‘’Yes.’’

Ronin blinked. ‘’Wh-what?’’Cyrus turned to face him. ‘’I said yes. I think about those moments. A lot.’’ Ronin stared, his mouth hanging open slightly. ‘’You’re lying.’’ Cyrus rolled his eyes, the gentle treading of his fingers stopping. Ronin almost whimpered at the loss. ‘’And why do you think I’m lying?’’ Ronin bit his lip. ‘’Because we broke up years ago- hell, decades ago. You can’t possibly still think about it.’’

‘’And why not?’’ Cryus scoffed. ‘’It’s my life, Ronin.’’ Ronin groaned, sitting up as frustration crackled in his voice. ‘’Why would you? I mean, look at me, Cy. I’m nothing. I’m worthless. I was a criminal. Why would you still think of us being together.’’Cyrus sat up, his gaze sharp and unwavering. ‘’Did you ever dream about us?’’ Ronin’s breaths caught and he felt as his face heated up. ‘’That’s different, Cy-’’

‘’How?!’’

‘’Because my reputation wouldn’t be ruined!’’

survived,’’ Cyrus shot back. ‘’An ex who did what he had to do. An ex who fought tooth and nail just to see his little brother again.’’ Ronin went rigid, his breaths growing shallow at Cyrus’ words. ‘’Am I wrong?’’ Cyrus pressed on. ‘’The ninja forgave you. They see you as your family. One of them might even see you as more than that.’’

A flush spread across Ronin’s cheeks at the thought of Kai.

‘’And judging by your response,’’ Cryus murmured. ‘’You feel the same.’’ Ronin stuffed his hands into his pockets. He didn’t answer. He didn’t need to. Cyrus let out a long breath. ‘’I’ve dreamt of a world where we still have a future. And a part of me hoped that that future might have started tonight.’’ Ronin opened his mouth, he wanted to deny it, to say something, anything. But Cyrus raised his hand. ‘’But it can’t. Ronin.’’ The words hit him like a punch. Ronin felt as his gut twisted. Cyrus looked away, his voice gentler now. ‘’You love Kai. And Kai loved you. And maybe, just someday… You’ll have room in your heart for him.’’

Ronin swallowed hard. His eyes were burning with pain. ‘’But right now,’’ Cyrus said, his voice steady. ‘’Your heart’s still full of fear. Of regret. Of shame.’’ Ronin’s hands trembled. He bit down on his lower lip until it hurt. ‘I understand, Cyrus.’’ He whispered.

Ronin let the doors of BORG Tower shut behind him with a hollow thud. A shuddering breath escaped his chest as tears welled in his eyes. Fear, regret. And confusion churning in his stomach like a storm refusing to settle. He was alone. Alone and confused and heartbroken. He wiped at his face quickly, trying to blink away the sting, trying to forget the look on Cryus’ face- crushed and tired, and too full of things they couldn't stay. Ronin sucked in an unsteady breath, turning and ducking into the nearest alleyway.

He wasn’t going to his shop. It was closed on weekends.

Weekends.

He used to spend them with the ninja. Visiting shops, helping them train, or relaxing. Pretending he belonged. But he couldn't do that anymore. He couldn’t risk it. Couldn't let them see what he was hiding. Couldn’t let them know the truth.

He walked.

And walked.

And walked.

Until the city faded behind him and the edge of Ninjago met the sea. The wind greeted him, calm and cold. It twisted around him, tugging at his coat and hair it needed him, or like it knew him. Like it remembered He let it wrap around him, leading him. The docks bustled with life. Families rolling their suitcases, and their laughter echoing. The ship glinted in the sun as it docked. Their paint shimmering under the daylight. The air smelled of salt and rust. And for a fleeting moment, Ronin smiled.

Ninjago was calm.

He breathed with the tides, slow and steady. He let the breeze carry the weight off of his shoulders. Sunlight warmed his back. The voices murmured in the background. Soft. easy, and normal.

Loud. Jarring.

Followed by screams.

Ronin’s head snapped up, his heart kicking against his chest as he scanned the water. Chaos rippled across the crowd. And people scattered. The ocean shifted, lifting unnaturally. The tides pulled back. And the waves curled.

A tsunami.

In the rough waves was a child. Small, and struggling. Their eyes wide with terror. Ronin felt as his blood turned to ice. His gaze darted around, hunting for something. Anything. A rope dangled above the waterline. He ran. His hands curled around the coarse fabric. In one breathless motion, he swung out over the crashing and dangerous waves. He caught the child before it was dragged under the current.

When he turned, the wave was bigger.

‘’Get to higher ground!’’ He shouted. ‘’And someone warn the ninja.’’

He didn’t wait. He ran towards the tsunami. The wind roared harshly in his ears as the water rose. He lifted his hands instinctively. His heart pounding in his chest as the commands echoed in his ears. The air around him howled with his fear. Images flashed in his mind, the ninja, Kai’s smile, Morro’s screams. Cyrus’ love.

Ronin braced himself.

He didn’t want these powers. Their curse. He didn’t want the weight that they carried. But right now, none of that mattered. Now, they were his power. Something he was going to use to help the people Ninjaja. People he had once hurt.

He pulled the wind to him. It howled louder, screaming as he used it. He let it. He had to divert the water.

He had to protect Ninjago.

Even if it meant revealing everything.

The wind screamed around him, and his hands trembled. Fear and terror surged through him, threatening to swallow him whole. But for once, he didn’t let it take control. Not this time. He spread his fingers, forcing the gusts to bend to his will. His arms shook from the force, his knees threatened to buckle beneath him, but he didn’t stop.He couldn’t stop. He didn't know where the ninja were. Didn’t know if they were coming. Of if they’d come too late. He puffed out his cheeks and willed his strength into his hands. Memories crashed through his mind like waves. Of Morro, alive and laughing; of their momma, bright and beautiful, spinning through the kitchen as she cooked. Before the bottles stole her. Of his dad, strong before the war. Before the blood, before the death, before the grave.

Before everything came crashing down around him.

Memories of his little brother holding their dada’s hand. Of when their family was whole.

Of Adriana and Louis. His momma and dada. The people he failed to protect. Ronin clenched his eyes shut

He had to stop the tsunami.

He curled his fingers into fists, and pushed the winds forward. His heart slammed against his ribs with frantic pulses. Each beat louder than the last. The air twisted around him. Listening, obeying. And the terror took root in his chest. He hated how it obeyed him. He hated these powers. And yet, a deep, aching part inside of him was grateful. Grateful that it was listening to him, obeying him, helping him.

The wind surged at his command, forming a barrier between the city and the sea. Protecting the people he was choosing to protect. The tsunami crashed against him, furious and unforgiving. But, it didn’t reach Ninjago.

It didn’t reach them.

Ronin felt a flicker of something almost like relief. He collapsed to his knees, the weight of it all slamming into him Exhaustion blanketed him, thick and dizzying. His vision blurred. His heart was pounding wildly. Bile rose in his throat as he struggled to catch his breath. His lungs burned. He tried to calm the shivering in his chest. To stay up right. But the world tilted.

Shapes approached. Unclear at first. Colored blending through the haze.

Blue. Green. Black. White.

And… red.

Kai.

‘’...Kai,’’ Ronin whispered, barely more than a breath. His voice was too thin, too weak to carry across the screaming winds. But he saw the red blur sprinting towards him, arms pumping, panic etched as he ran. Relief washed over him. ‘’R-Ronin, what happened? Are you- how is the water- Ronin! Ronin!- hear me- please-'’ The words swam in Ronin’s ears, drowned by the pained pounding in his head. He gasped, throat tight and lungs barely working. His fingers reached out, curling weakly around Kai’s arm. ‘’I’m sorry- hide- help…please…’’ His body swayed. And the world began to dim at the edge. The other figures were running faster. Closer. Panicked.

Kai’s voice broke through, sharp and desperate as he clung to Ronin’s swaying form. ‘’Help! He’s- consciousness- Nya-’'

Black.

The last thing Ronin felt was the warmth of hands tightening around him before he hit the ground.

The steady beeping of a heart monitor filled the empty air around him. The morning light streamed through the windows, casting long shadows across the sterile floor. Ronin groaned as the sunlight reached his face. His eyes clenched tighter, trying to block it out. His breaths were shallow, uneven- like something heavy sat on his chest, pressing down.Voices filtered from inside the room. Familiar ones. Ronin sucked in a quiet breath. ‘’Do we know what happened yet, Zane?’’ His fingers twisted. Curling into fists at his side that laid on the gurney. ‘’At the moment, we have only speculations,’’ Zane replied, calmness etched in the seriousness of his voice. ‘’Some of the civilians said they saw Ronin using…wind powers…’’ Silence fell through the ninja. Ronin bit down on his lip to keep himself from making a sound. ‘’But… that was Morro’s power,’’ Kai said, confusion in his tone. ‘’Yes, it was, Kai.’’ Zane responded. ‘’But Morro is gone.’

‘’That would mean…’’ Kai trailed off. ‘’Morro and Ronin are related?’’

‘’Not necessarily,’’ Zane said. ‘’Wu told us powers can choose a new host if a blood line ends. And it seems that Ronin was chosen.’’ Ronin pressed his teeth into his lips harder. His eyes burned. ‘Is that why he was pulling away from us?’’ Kai murmured. ‘’I thought…’

‘’We all did,’’ Nya cut in.’’ ‘’We thought he was going back to crime, or being forced into it again. We were trying to find a way to help him. To help him remember who he is.’’ Ronin’s heart clenched. The thought of them trying to help to- to bring him back to the light pained him. The thought that after everything he had done to them, they would still want him. Would still choose to help him. He bit down on his lip so hard he tasted blood. ‘’Is that why he was hiding?’’ Kai asked softly. ‘’The powers? I mean. Did he really think we’d shun him out? Or throw him away? Doesn’t he know us better than that?’’

‘’Kai,’’ Nya said gently. ‘’You have to understand what this must’ve felt like to him.’’ Kai exhaled. Long and worry filled. ‘’But Nya…we’ve always tried to be understanding with him. We know he’s got baggage. Who doesn’t?’’ His voice cracked. ‘’We know he’s made mistakes. But we always understood. We still do-’

‘’And he was scared, Kai.’’ Nya interrupted, her voice tight. ‘’Just like we were. Like like we all were at some point.’’ A heavy silence settled over the room, the sound of the AC blowing echoed faintly. ‘’You have to remember how scared you were when you first started out.’’ Nya continued, her voice trembling. ‘’Or how scared I was.’’

‘’Nya-’’

''No! Ronin was scared and now that we know, it's so obvious. We should have seen it. We should’ve figured it out. But we didn’t. And that’s on us.’’ Ronin’s stomach twisted. Shame burned deep in his chest, curling behind his ribs like fire. The voices faded as the ninja began to quietly leave. Ronin let his eyes open, tiredness pulled at him. The sunlight cut across his face again, too bright, too warm, and he grimaced. He turned his head towards the window, his jaw tight with determination.

He had to get out of here.

Ronin escaped that night. While the ninja slept, and Ninjago began to repair the damage he had caused, Ronin ran. He fled.He was a coward- he knew that. Pathetic, hollow, and a shadow of the person he once was- that he tried to be once more. He was disgusted with himself. He had promised the ninja that he would turn over a new leaf, to accept the consequences of his actions, and strive to be better. His failure, his faults. And he tried, and failed.

And, here he was.

Still running. Still hiding. Still being the very thing he had sworn to never be again. Something that, if his parents were still alive, they would be ashamed of. And that thought hurt.

Ronin ducked under another freeway as the wind whipped around him, sharp and violent. His hood was pulled low, and his arms were wrapped tight around him as the cold night pressed closer. Harsher. Rougher. A shiver crawled down his spine. He just needed to make it to the station. Then he could buy a ticket- and run, hide, and vanish once again. Like always. He shook his head hard, trying to clear it. His thoughts spun wild and cruel. He couldn’t stay. Not when people could get hurt. He wasn’t safe- not for them, not for anyone. He was untamed, dangerous, wild.

Evil.

Just like his brother.

Everyone had been right about him.

And Ronin didn’t know the answer anymore

He wasn’t a hero. He wasn’t someone worth saving. He was an ex-convict, a thief, a man who’d failed too many times to count. The ninja didn’t need someone like him dragging them down. He gasped around another sob that scraped his throat raw. The rain station lights glowed ahead, golden in the dark, and his chest tightened. He was so close. Close to leaving, to starting over yet again. To disappear for good. For doing one good thing. But something inside of him ached to turn around- to run back to the monastery, to the warmth and familiarity of the team. To the only people who had ever really seen him. To their comfort. Their trust. Their love. Their understanding and kindness.

He needed to leave. To keep the ninja safe.

But he didn’t want to. But he had to

Ronin stopped. His eyes fixed to the lit-up sign of the station. His head told him to run, but his heart whispered to him to stay. To fight. To prove to them (and him) that he wasn’t his brother. That he wasn’t a monster. A villain. His hands trembled. And his breath came fast.

He should go. To protect them. To protect Kai, or Jay. Or Cole. All of them. To keep them safe from whatever he might become.

If he ran, if he disappeared, wouldn’t he just bring the wind of storms with him/ Bring destruction to another city, and more innocent people? Ronin’s hands shook harder. He dragged in a deep breath, his lungs burning. He forced his frantic heart to slow. The winds around him softened.

>His mind was made.

Ronin shook as he pushed open the monastery doors. His whole body trembled as his breaths caught in his throat.

What if he made another mistake?

What if they didn’t want him back?

What if they knew he was already turning into the thing they promised to beat?

What if the ninja were glad he’d left? Relieved even?

He stepped inside, shutting the door behind. The low hum of voices faded, replaced by the sound of quick footsteps and panting as they rounded the corner. His heart pounded. He took a shaky breath just as the ninja came into his view. Their eyes wide, faces frozen. He heard the gasps first. Then the whispers. Then laughter- soft and uncertain. Ronin’s eyes squeezed, his fingers digging into his palms. ‘’I- I should go, I didn’t mean to co-’’ Hands caught him before he could finish. ‘’Where did you go? Why did you leave?’’ The voice was desperate, shaking. The grip around him was too tight, too human. Ronin stumbled back under the weight of it all, his hands wrapped around the person holding him. Harder and forceful. Grounding. ‘’I- I-’’ His throat burned. His eyes stung with tears. ‘’I’m sorry…’’ He whispered, his voice breaking apart. His grip tightened. ‘’I’m so sorry…’’ The figure pulled away just enough for hands to cup his face, warm and trembling. ‘’Hey, hey, hey- it’s okay. It’s okay. You’re safe. We’re here.’’ Thoughts blurred his vision. And he saw Nya’s outline. Her blue eyes widened with worry and fear. ‘’Why are you crying?’’ She asked softly. Ronin choked on a sob. ‘’I…I tried, but-... I failed…’’ His voice cracked as tears streamed down his face. ‘’I failed, and- and-’’

‘’Hey,’’ Nya’s voice wavered. Her hands smoothing his hair away from his face. ‘’It’s okay. Now. You didn’t fail. It’s not your fault that-’’

‘’But it is!’’ Ronin shouted, pushing back against her hands. ‘’It is! The only reason I got this- this power- this curse- is because Morro was my brother! Because I let him die!’’ His hands trembled as he clutched at his pants. He stared down at them. ‘’ I failed him. I failed my brother-! And he died because of me. Because I couldn’t take care of him!’’

‘’You didn’t fail him, Ronin.’’

He shook his head violently, his tears falling harshly. ‘’You did not fail him, Ronin.’’ Ronin blinked through his tears, his eyes burned with tears. ‘’I…Wu?’’ Wu nodded slowly. ‘’I failed your brother.’’ Ronin froze. ‘’What?’’

‘’I took in your brother. I filled his head with ideas. Fantasies of being the Green Ninja. I gave him hope, and when he wasn’t chosen, he thought I would cast him aside. He left because of that. Because of me. Not you. I am the one who failed him, Ronin.’’ Ronin’s breath hitched. He felt a gentle hand wipe his tears from his cheeks. Nya stood before him again, her expression full of quiet sadness. Wu stepped forward, his hands cupping Ronin’s face. Guiding him to his gaze. ‘’You didn’t fail your brother, Ronin. I did. And how, you carry his blessing, His powers- his last gift. His legacy.’’ Ronin's eyes widened, his throat tightening as more tears burned their way down. He had never thought of it that way. Wu’s voice softened. ‘’So come. Let’s start training.’’

He nodded. His hands trembled as they loosened on his pants. And for the first time in a long time, he let himself breathe.