Stealing another's abilities is the first part but being able to use it is the more difficult part.

But perhaps... Given the way things have been falling into place, it does seem possible. The memory we all saw—he spoke about a coupon, right? A coupon followed by questions about ourselves...

[ were they given something for "free" in exchange for something else? their lack of abilities might be that thing but— ]

I can't imagine that I would have given up my fire for anything.