Nico's magic has always been painful, an inheritance from her parents she had to hurt herself to use. Now, at last, she learns the shocking source of the Staff of One -- and things will never be the same! Meanwhile, Christmas comes to the Hostel -- but a familiar face could ruin everything. Alex Wilder is back! No one led the Runaways better than him -- and no one hurt them more. But with the destruction of Earth looming, will Alex help the team overcome the worst threat they've faced since their reunion -- or is another betrayal on the horizon? Plus: In a special adventure, see the world through Old Lace's eyes!.