“I’m not sure it’s friction. I mean, I can do this,” a pair of wings, shaped entirely of flame, appear from her back, “and I guess I could do like the Human Torch and surround myself with it.” The wings drop away to nothing. “Are you excited because this is new, or the … ” Summer looks away, trying to find the right words. “I’ve fought with them. I’ve hurt people with it. It’s … it’s hard, doing that, because I’m having to dump their pain right back out, really fast, or get caught up in it. I can choose if they burn someone else, but I have to think about it, focus on it. It’s only me that’s wholly safe.” That brought a twist to her mouth.
“It seems you’re in full control of your ability.” He watches the display amazedly. “I understand you’ve had to use your powers to protect yourself..” His expression turns to serious. He furrows his brows, this ability reminds him of something, but he’s not entirely sure what it is called. “Who have you fought with? Just some normal locals or—?” He goes silent, waiting for Summer to finish his sentence.
“Never on ungifted people. Not the fire, anyway. It’s simple enough to be … keeping an ear on my surroundings, and most ordinary thugs are not going to bother with someone who even looks like they will fight back.” This sigh is long, and weary, and she looks at her open hands like maybe they betrayed her. “I’ve killed with it, in self-defence. A few weeks ago, some folk kidnapped me. They’re called the Midnighters. It’s a quiet group, but they take people who have magic, or gifts related to magic, so that they can steal those powers. I … some friends broke me out, after the Midnighters drugged me nearly insensible.”