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Three taps of his cane. Three steps forward. Three seconds to reconsider. Three seconds to fail. Three seconds to hear his cane hit the floor. Three steps forward. Three seconds suspended mid-air. Three seconds right before he hit the-
Viktor's eyes opened and he dragged in a shaking breath. Despite the chill in the air, no puffs left his shuddering lips. He sat with his cane placed delicately across his lap, right on the edge of the rubble. Right where he could see the ground. Right where he could see the grass they'd planted to cover the mess. There'd been a balcony here once. Viktor remembered it fondly. He would come out to drink tea. Watch the people below. Sometimes he'd read. He pulled one of his legs up to his chest as he stared forward. He wished he could see the moon. But it was cloudy this night. Cloudy. Cold. His night had been clear. For three seconds, he'd seen the moon so clearly. For three seconds, he'd touched the stars. It felt... cruel. In a way, almost inhumane. That the moment his vision had gone out, he'd only had three seconds of peace before he was back on the balcony. Right back where he'd started. And yet... the commotion. The panic below had told him otherwise. That's when the headache had started. A dull, throbbing pain always tucked away in the back left of his skull. He'd grown accustomed to it. He didn't think anything in his life had ever happened that had caused such a violent, sickening disappointment within him. Not the rejection of his research. Not the diagnosis he'd received. Not even his initial removal from the mere consideration of being a professor, something he'd only been saved from by the Dean of the Academy taking pity on him. Even then, just an Assistant. But still, none of that could've compared to the nausea he'd felt waking up from hitting the ground. The world's worst joke. And he was the punchline. Something small and white floated past his face. He raised his eyes, pulling himself away from his thoughts. His fingers raised next, but the snowflakes drifted through him. He was so distracted by the snowfall that he didn't hear the footsteps until something was suddenly kicked off the ledge next to him. He jumped so badly that parts of his body exploded into mist before reforming. He paused as he dematerialized for a moment before reforming in a standing position. He held his cane tightly in his hands. The man that had appeared next to him was breathing heavily. He kept stepping forward and backwards from the ledge, his gaze fixed on the sky. He looked downright panicked by the snow. That was... That was terror in his eyes. He looked so frightened that he almost seemed ill. Viktor paused. He recognized this man. He'd been the one living in this apartment when the wall had been blown out. Viktor still wasn't even sure what had happened. He'd gone to wander around the Academy the day before, only to come back to his balcony... gone. He'd always stayed outside on it. Any glances he would cast inside the apartment, the man would always be bent over a journal, or scratching out equations on the chalkboard hung on the wall. And even on the rare days he'd come outside on the balcony, all he would do was read. The same book. The same book every single time. It had looked so worn and the pages had seemed so yellowed. Viktor had... never cared to look at him this closely. With a face like that, he never would've expected to see this man inside as much as he did. He swore this man would only eat, sleep, and research. But now... it looked like he wasn't doing any of that. Now... it looked like... Viktor froze up. He took a few steps away as the man took a few steps forward. Viktor didn't know what to do for a moment. He knew this feeling. He'd had this feeling. Surely he... Viktor stared at the man. The only thing that seemed to be keeping the man back was the snowfall. Why was he so afraid of it?? Viktor's hands were fidgeting on his cane. What should he do?? What could he do? He couldn't just... He couldn't just let... let history repeat itself?? No. No, he... Viktor glanced back. He retreated to the darkest part of the room, feeling himself become a little more solid. He placed his hand on the wall to steady himself, his cane shaking in his other hand. He could hear the man whispering to himself, clearly trying to talk himself into it. He paced along the ledge for a moment before peering over it. Viktor stared at him. It wasn't worth it. He wouldn't be free. He couldn't... The man seemed to take a deep breath, composing himself. Viktor could see the breath billow out in front of him and panic flared in his chest. "Am I interrupting?" The question blurted from his throat a little more sarcastically than he'd meant, but it got the job done. The student let out a loud swear, turning to look back at him in shock. Those golden-brown eyes were only filled with confusion and they seemed just as panicked as Viktor felt. Viktor wouldn't move forward. He knew that, in this light, he would be solid enough to make out. When those eyes landed on him, he had to steel himself. He wasn't used to being... seen. He gestured to the sky. "Something like this during snowfall... Poetic, don't you think?" He sighed. "Tragic, but poetic." The man could only stare at him before he finally turned his head away, frustration in his tone as he spoke. "It would be a shit poem." His voice was strangled. "How did you get in my apartment?" Viktor paused before glancing to the side at what was left of the blown-open doorway. He raised a brow and turned back to the man. "...It was not difficult." He replied quietly. He still wouldn't move and that only seemed to make the man more uneasy. He opened his mouth, but Viktor spoke before he could tell him to move forward. "You seem afraid of the snow." His comment made the other man freeze up a little. "A snowflake landed upon you and you flinched like it had burned you." The man seemed taken back. "The snowfall will only grow heavier... I think you should come back inside." Viktor's tone became quiet and prompting by the end. The man glanced back behind him at the ledge and Viktor's hand tightened on his cane. So many emotions were flying through the man's eyes and he finally squeezed them shut, holding his forehead in his hand. His shoulders had sunken in defeat and his face only held frustration as he moved back inside. Viktor relaxed a little, a chill of shock moving through his body with the relief. Good gods, he'd actually stopped him. He wasn't sure what to do as he watched the man sit on one of the only remaining chairs, burying his face in his hands and leaning his elbows on his knees. Viktor watched him from the dark section he occupied. He remained leaned against the wall. "...I just came to get what was left of my things." The man finally spoke up and Viktor didn't believe that for a second. "I've been expelled from the Academy. I'll have to move from this residential building." Viktor paused. Expelled?? He echoed the word in surprise. It was rare students were ever expelled. That kind of decision had to be made by- "Yes, expelled! Didn't you see the trial??" The man's annoyed tone made him pause as the other shot him a glare, clearly fighting back tears. Viktor only stared back. "No, I was not aware there was a trial." He replied, his voice remaining calm. The man stared at him before saying that every student had known about it. "Clearly not." Now Viktor was just curious. What had this student been on trial for? Blowing up his apartment? Viktor could think of past students that had done so much worse. So much worse. "...do they put students on trial for incidental property damage now?" He glanced around. "Mm, I would've been in trouble quite a few times if that were so." He'd mostly murmured the last part to himself, but the man spoke again. "It was for my research. The Council found out about it. It was deemed... dangerous. And it was... unauthorized. So they shut it down." The man said quietly. Viktor's eyes lowered to the ground. He made a small noise of understanding, saying his work had been shut down as well. The man glanced up at him. "What... did your research consist of?" He sounded uncertain as he asked. Likely since he hadn't been expecting to have a casual conversation. Viktor could tell that much. Bringing up his research and what he could've done was always painful. It was always painful, but it would be the first time in a while he'd been given the chance to speak of it again. "Epidemiology. I studied, uh..." Viktor paused as the man spoke up. "Diseases?" He was watching Viktor in resigned confusion. Viktor nodded. He replied that he'd wanted to be an epidemiologist, but he had flown too close to the sun while presenting his findings. The man hesitated and sat up a little more. "H-How? Identifying and reducing the risks of outbreak and infection is something Piltover holds... in high regard..." He scanned over Viktor's expression and his brow furrowed. "Right...?" He had sounded less and less certain as he spoke. Viktor gave a quiet sigh as his eyes lowered to the ground. "It is not only identifying. It is observing the effects something may have. Which fed into my secondary study of anatomy." His hand was fidgeting on his cane again. "And... it appears you are not allowed to speak of diseases caused by certain things that..." He trailed off, unsure of how to word it. He seemed to have the man's full attention now. His curiosity. "...If you present your findings on the diseases caused by... a textbook definition of bioterrorism... they remove you from your study." The man paused, his golden-brown eyes scanning over Viktor as he asked what he'd presented. "I presented on The Grey." Even the name of the chemical seemed to lock the man's body up. He stared at him with wide eyes and Viktor nodded, avoiding his gaze. "It had been far too ambitious of me." He glanced back at him. "And what of your research?" The man paused and, to Viktor's surprise, a look of embarrassment seemed to pass over his face. "...Magic." Viktor paused and stared at him quietly. "I was... mixing magic with science." Viktor wasn't sure he quite believed him, but he also knew that he'd watched this man come home before and slave away day and night over his journal. Over his chalkboard. "I-I can show you. I see that look." The man stood up and moved forward, picking up a lantern before flicking it on and placing it up on a hook sticking out of the wall. The entire chalkboard was illuminated and Viktor's eyes scanned over the patterns. Wait... patterns? No, these were numbers. Equations. Not... The man had turned to look back at him, scanning him over. "...You see them too, don't you? I see that look." He repeated his earlier statement in excitement. There was something slightly desperate beneath his words and Viktor glanced at him before his eyes moved back up to the chalkboard. He'd seen these shapes before. The way the equations were flush against one another. He was quiet for a moment. "...Professor Heimerdinger had books with these shapes. These are Runes, no?" Viktor asked, moving so he was leaned back against the wall. The man was startled for a moment. He asked if he'd known the Dean and Viktor paused. "I used to be his assistant." The man scanned him over before asking if his research had lost him the position. "...It played a part." He quickly gestured back to the board. "One shape appears more consistently than the rest." He wasn't lying. Through the tight-knit equations, he was seeing a consistent shape among all the others. "A... strange request, but could you move the lantern a little farther?" The man paused before reaching up and moving the lantern over to a nearby desk. Viktor finally moved from his spot, his cane softly tapping against the floor. He stopped in front of the chalkboard, making sure to stand almost directly in the man's shadow to maintain his solidarity. The man paused before offering him the chalk. Viktor hesitated. He hoped to the gods that he was solid enough for this. He reached out and relief flooded his form as he took the chalk. He turned to the board. He drew with the chalk in light strokes, knowing if he pushed any harder, it would fall right through his fingers. Once he'd finished sketching out the Rune he saw, he quickly placed the chalk down and moved back a little. The man had fallen silent next to him, studying the shape he'd drawn. His hand was holding his chin. "...This one is the consistency?" "It is the one I see most prevalent." Viktor replied. He wasn't sure if he'd done something wrong or not. The man suddenly inhaled and let out a LOUD swear. Viktor jumped, quickly hiding his hand as it turned into mist. He stared at the man in shock as he buried his head in his hand. "These would've worked then!! That's... fuck!" The man turned away, his voice became strangled with frustration again. "Why couldn't I pick that out?? How did I keep missing that??" He turned to Viktor. "Show me where you see it! Circle them!" He stated firmly. Viktor stared at him and the man paused before quickly stepping back. "Pl-Please. Can... you circle where you see them? I-I'm sorry." Viktor could recognize the desperation of being so close to an answer. He'd felt it many times. He moved forward, scooping up the chalk. He scanned over the wall of equations and variables again before reaching out. He drew circles around every single one he saw. The moment he thought he was done, another would appear. He finally pulled his hand back, quickly placing the chalk down once more.The man stared at the nearly countless circles before covering his mouth again, staring forward. "...I wish I had my equipment." He muttered to himself in a pained voice. Viktor hesitated before asking where it was. "It was all confiscated. They locked it away in one of the larger labs." Heimerdinger's lab. Viktor had no doubt that's where it was. He glanced over at the man quietly before his grip tightened on his cane. He gave it three small taps before speaking, saying that he could get it. "What?? No, they're probably keeping an eye on you if you were demoted from the Dean's Assistant. Y-You've... You've helped me quite a lot, I don't want to get you in trouble." "If you would like my help, please meet me at the Academy within the next hour. If not..." Viktor turned away before his shoulders sank. "Please don't be where I think you'll be when I return." His voice had weakened and he moved away, his cane tapping along the floor. He slipped out of what was left of the destroyed door and he heard the man start to call out again. Viktor shut his eyes, dematerializing. When he reformed, he was standing on the steps of the Academy. He moved up them, standing next to the doors. He had to be careful around here. All he had for the clothes were the ones he'd dropped in. A simple Academy uniform. No coat and nothing that would keep him warm during weather like this. People would look at him like he was crazy if they saw him. This was the most excitement he'd had in a while. He... He had saved someone. Maybe...? He stared at the ground quietly. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds of scanning the street. Three more taps. His eyes drifted to the sky, watching as the snow fell. It didn't take long before he started to lose hope. He just... didn't want to come back... and find another person standing at the ledge. Looking down... at themselves. He didn't want that. It brought a heavy ache to his chest that contributed to the one constantly embedded in his skull. Something moved. Viktor's gaze snapped up. Through the snow, he could see a figure fast approaching the building, wearing a heavy cloak. Their breath was coming out in thick clouds and the man pulled back his hood to stare at Viktor with wide eyes. He seemed completely dumbfounded as he stared at him. "...Aren't you cold??" He asked in his breathless voice. Viktor shook his head. He turned to the doors and ever so slightly pushed his finger inside of one to open the locking mechanism. He pushed the door open, gesturing for the man to follow. "...Do they really just leave it unlocked at night??" The man followed him inside, Viktor letting the door shut. It was almost pitch-black in here, with outside light shining in through the windows down either hall. He felt so solid. Almost alive. Almost. He paused as he heard the man speak again. "Hey, uh, you left so fast that I didn't catch your name. I'm Jayce Talis." The man held out his hand, seeming nervous. Viktor blinked in surprise. He... He hadn't tried to... He hesitated before reaching out and shaking Jayce's hand. He pulled his hand away so fast that it seemed to startle the other. "...Your name?" He finally prompted him again. "Viktor." He replied, glancing back at him. "We should hurry." He turned and he heard Jayce stumble to follow after him. His cane was tapping against the floor and he kept himself extremely distanced from the light of the windows, which seemed to confuse Jayce. He stopped next to the door of Heimerdinger's office, gesturing for Jayce to wait. He used the same trick he had at the front doors, though he was careful not to let Jayce see. He slipped into the office, instinctively heading towards one of the walls. It was still there. It looked like Heimerdinger had never moved it around. Viktor pulled down the key ring from the hook before coming back out to Jayce and offering it to him. He had to lower it so the ring was against Jayce's fingers. He knew the hallway was almost completely dark. Jayce seemed absolutely frozen for a moment, his eyes hesitantly finding Viktor's. "Take it." Viktor prompted him. Jayce did so, though he was clearly shaken by it. Viktor turned away, leading Jayce down the halls. Jayce seemed to stop and become confused at several points, Viktor having to repeatedly come back for him. "How can you walk so easily?? It's so dark, I can barely see." Jayce said, his eyes wide. While that may have been true, Viktor could see just fine. He reached the large door of Heimerdinger's lab, guiding Jayce to the keyhole in the center of it. "...I don't suppose you know which key it is off the top of your head?" Jayce gave a small disappointed sigh as Viktor shook his head. He started to fiddle through the keys. Even if he knew he couldn't be caught, the thrill of this was exciting. He was... Admittedly, he was having fun. He flinched as a blinding light suddenly erupted on their other side. "Willing to risk exile for your endeavors? That's quite the conviction." A woman's voice sounded unamused. Viktor could barely see past the flashlight she was holding and he didn't recognize that voice. The good thing about this was that his corporeal form could not exist under bright light. Jayce was on his own trying to explain. He froze as he heard Jayce sputter, referring to the woman as... One of the Councilors?? He didn't recognize her. Had the Council seats changed? He was vaguely aware of Jayce speaking to the woman. He held up his hand and rested his knuckle against Jayce's back to let him know he was still there. However, he was completely hidden behind the other. He didn't know why he was so nervous about this. He wasn't the one at risk. He gave a quiet sigh, wondering if he should just dematerialize and return to the ledge. Jayce was caught, wasn't he?He paused as the light suddenly turned away and he heard heels clicking. He was stunned silent for a moment before speaking. "She... is letting you be?" "Not... Not exactly. I have one night to show why my research is worth this. I have to make... what is essentially a month's worth of progress in... one night." Jayce sounded a little strained and it seemed he finally found the right key as the door to the lab hissed open. All of the lights inside hummed on their lowest setting. Viktor saw Jayce reach out to the switch and he halted himself so fast with his cane that he almost fell. He remained outside in the dark hallway. Jayce paused, turning to look back at him. "Viktor??" He pulled his hand away from the switch and Viktor hesitated. He finally crept forward into the lab again, the soft tapping of his cane accompanying him. He hadn't been in here for a very long time. "Ah!" He heard Jayce exclaim in excitement before he moved over to the table, the door heard sliding shut again.That must've been his equipment. Jayce came back over with his journal. He seemed uncertain before asking if Viktor was going to stay to help him. "Help you? Jayce, I do not know how much help I'd be. I studied disease and anatomy." Jayce replied that that could be useful. He asked if Viktor knew how to use tools. "Yes?" Jayce smiled before saying that they could do this together then. Viktor stared at him. It just sounded like he was... going to be an assistant all over again. "Jayce, I mean this politely, but I do not wish to be your assistant." He jumped as Jayce spoke, saying he would be his partner, not his assistant. He was quite insistent about it and Viktor didn't know what to do. He appreciated Jayce's eagerness and his passion, but... "Jayce. I don't think I can. I apologize."It did make him feel guilty as he saw Jayce's shoulders sink. He moved back to the tables, setting his journal down and rubbing the back of his neck. Viktor's grip tightened on his cane. He felt terrible. He paused as Jayce picked something else up and called him over once more. Viktor tipped his head before coming over. Jayce showed him a thick, leather bracelet. There was something glowing in the center and Viktor's shoulders scrunched in surprise. He'd never seen a physical Rune before. But that symbol... "This was the Rune your equations made up. Is that why you became so excited?" Viktor asked, glancing up at him curiously. There was an ugly feeling creeping up his spine that he didn't quite... Jayce smiled as he wrapped the bracelet back around his wrist. "Which Rune is it? I haven't brushed up on symbology in... quite some time."Jayce paused, glancing over at him. He seemed uncertain and Viktor furrowed his brow. He didn't think any of the Runes could be... embarrassing? He paused as Jayce held his wrist out to him. Viktor hesitated before moving closer to inspect it. The shape was familiar. He was wracking his head trying to remember that old book. His hands were fidgeting on his cane. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds to think. Viktor tipped his head before it finally clicked. "Binding." He said, glancing up at Jayce. "Binding." Jayce agreed quietly. He suddenly reached out and grabbed Viktor's hand, the Rune on his wrist lighting up. Viktor startled, jerking backwards. He nearly fell as there was a soft clinking noise. Clinking?? Viktor's eyes were wide as he stared at the glowing blue chain connected to his wrist. "J-Jayce??" Panic instantly started to fill his chest again and his cane clattered to the floor, dematerializing after a few moments as Jayce looked him over. "I was right. You’re made up of the same magic as the Rune." He sounded slightly proud of himself. Viktor glanced at his wrist before looking up at him again. "I see that look. I know. But you'd already messed up your charade a few times." Jayce added, moving back around the table. To Viktor's shock, the chain connecting them only lengthened until Jayce got further away. Viktor yelped as he was dragged through the table and collapsed in front of Jayce. "And it works!" Jayce sounded excited as he moved back to the other side. "Good gods, I've been searching for a being tied to this magic." He sounded so relieved and Viktor was only panicking more. He raised his wrist, glancing at it. He really hated to do this, but...Jayce jumped as Viktor's wrist let out a loud snap. His neck followed, along with part of his skull. Right where it ached. Luckily, the broken wrist seemed to dislodge the chain and he heard Jayce yell out as he dematerialized. Viktor reappeared back in the apartment, panting. He didn't even need to breathe, but it was calming the absolute terror he'd just felt. He snapped his wrist back into place, shakily reaching up before fixing his head and neck. He summoned a new cane to his hands and pushed himself to his feet. His hands were shaking badly as they fidgeted. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds to close his eyes. Three seconds to calm down and breathe. He... Viktor's eyes shot open, his body instantly starting to turn to mist as he felt a burning in his wrist. "Don't. Don't. Please don't." He whispered through gritted teeth. He could only watch in panic as the shape of the Binding Rune etched itself into his pale skin. Three seconds to process. Three seconds to panic. Three seconds before he was being dragged right back to Jayce's side. And it only took three seconds for Jayce to flash him a smile, accompanied with a calm 'welcome back'.
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Viktor did not like the way Jayce kept studying him. He would do a circle, make an observation and then move away to write it in his journal. He would never tell Viktor what it was. It felt demeaning and wordlessly rude. Viktor had resigned himself to the floor, sitting crisscross with his hands fidgeting on the cane laid askew on his lap. He kept his eyes down before electing to scan over the nearby wall. He wondered if Heimerdinger had kept it. Kept him. Sure enough, his eyes landed on the dusty glass of a picture frame. He pushed himself to his feet using his cane, moving towards it. "Viktor, where are you going?" The way Jayce called out after him was curious and amused, much how one would call out after a pet. Viktor's hand tightened on his cane. He refused to look back at him. He reached out and picked up the frame. The year had been worn off of it, though it couldn't have been that long ago. Viktor set it down on the desk, scanning it over before using his finger to wipe away the dust from a particular spot. Yes, that was... Viktor stared at his own face quietly. The photo was aged and he furrowed his brow. He jumped, pieces of him turning into mist as Jayce spoke over his shoulder. "Oh, you, uh, weren't kidding." He reached out and picked up the frame, turning away with it. Viktor furrowed his brow. Why would he have been lying about that?? Nothing he'd said had technically been a lie. Jayce had just never asked directly if he were... Viktor paused as Jayce spoke again. "So this is who you based your form off of?" "Pardon?" Viktor immediately asked in a sharp tone, glancing back at him. "I know you don't seem to be a fan of asking about things before you do them, but at the very least, you could not make assumptions about me on your own." His voice had become strict and Jayce stared at him with wide eyes. And yet, he still just stared at him like he was... like he was some animal displaying a fascinating behavior. Viktor only felt frustration boil in his stomach. He felt threatened, but not in a way that would bring him harm. Jayce wouldn't be able to do anything further to him. He'd just put him on a leash. And for what?? To gawk at?? Three harsh taps of his cane. "I am Viktor. Nearly all of my time was spent here when I was still a student." "Really?" Jayce asked curiously, looking him over. "What other memories do you have?" Viktor only grew more irritated by this and Jayce seemed to notice, pausing. "I see that look. I'm just curious because, uh, most manifestations that resemble people or animals appear years after the physical form is long gone. But you claim that you can remember-" "I am no manifestation of whatever you are studying!" Viktor wasn't used to raising his voice and it would be obvious. Good gods, this was frustrating. He glared at Jayce. "I saw my own twisted body beneath me as I stood on the balcony! I saw my blood run while it was still warm! My bones-!" There was a loud cracking noise as Viktor's head suddenly twisted violently to the side at his neck. "My bones freshly broken!" The back left of his skull went first. His eye followed, going dark with how all the blood vessels in it erupted. The whole side of his face was the last to go, completely caving in. Jayce had started moving back with wide eyes. "My own eye left glassy!" Viktor moved forward, throwing his hand to side in frustration, a loud snapping sound following as his wrist broke. There was more breaking, all of it climbing his arm and into his shoulder. Part of his chest. "To imply I am not myself after I witnessed the aftermath of my own death firsthand is insulting." Jayce had stumbled back against the table. His eyes were wide as he stared down at Viktor. It was no longer fascinated, but more something... disgusted. Not horrified, but like he was looking at something unclean. Viktor rolled his remaining eye before turning away. He reached out, snapping his wrist back into place and making Jayce flinch. He started to carefully move his hand up his arm, massaging to bones to settle into place once more. He reached up and placed two fingers along the side of his head before twisting it back into place. Fixing his skull with his hands always got a little messy, as evident by the following squishing and cracking noises. Jayce didn't seem to like those at all. Vision slowly returned to Viktor's eye as he pulled back a bloody hand, watching as the dark liquid dripped off of it. It dissipated the moment it hit the floor. He glanced over at Jayce before moving forward. "H-Hey, no!" Jayce instantly cringed as Viktor wiped his hand on his vest. He gagged and turned away, Viktor watching him. "Ugh." "Don't be theatrical. There's no need for it if I am just a 'manifestation' of your... magic." Viktor stated coldly. Jayce had completely tensed up, trying to get the blood off of him. It was fading into mist on its own. "Bold of you to trap me if such simple things frighten you. A little egotistical, don't you think?" Viktor turned away, moving back towards the desk and the discarded picture frame. He stared down at it quietly. He raised a hand, studying the transparent tips of his fingers with sunken shoulders. For this overzealous man to even imply that he wasn't human. Viktor may not have been alive any longer, but to say that he wasn't human was... It was right up there with one of the most hurtful things anyone had done. Right next to his diagnosis. Jayce finally said his name again and Viktor sighed. "What?" "...Maybe I haven't made a good first impression. I, uh, I apologize." Jayce said, Viktor turning to look at him with the most unamused look he could. "I didn't mean to insult you, I'm just trying to understand you." "Mm. Do you also chain people to you when you are trying to make friends or am I just the special one?" Viktor raised his hand to show off the glowing blue chain dangling from inside his wrist. "With the way you try to 'understand' things, I'm shocked you weren't put on trial sooner." The words seemed to take Jayce back and he glanced to the side, finally speaking and admitting that he'd panicked. That he'd never encountered something like this before and he'd been desperate to keep it. He reached behind him, pulling up his journal and flipping through it. "B-Because say you are Viktor. Your personality and memories remained intact, but your actual form is the same magic I'm studying. Arcane magic. Otherwise the Rune wouldn't have worked." He placed the journal down. "A-And I admittedly got ahead of myself on assuming you were... the Arcane and not... Viktor." He trailed off and Viktor stared at him. "Forgive me, but are you making an attempt at an apology?" Viktor asked, his hands tight on his cane. He didn't like what Jayce said, but it, at the very least, made a little more sense to him now. Jayce averted his gaze. "...You don't know how to undo the Rune." The statement seemed to make Jayce tense up a little and Viktor sighed, burying his head in his hand. "How can you be so careless?? If I hadn't been me. If I had truly been some kind of malevolent presence hiding in the form of a man. What were you thinking??" Jayce opened his mouth. "You weren't. You just barreled ahead without any consideration. If I were a professor seeing you act like this, I would've expelled you as well! How in the name of the gods did you manage to pass any classes or group projects?!" Viktor could only glare at him and when Jayce couldn't even seem to look him in the eye, he turned away. "Ugh!" He threw his hand up in a vague, frustrated gesture. Jayce flinched as his wrist broke again, but Viktor popped it back into place without a second thought.At least it seemed like he'd gotten through to Jayce now. The other no longer watched him like he was observing some kind of zoo animal. Instead, he seemed ashamed and a little humiliated, unable to even look Viktor in the face. Had it finally clicked that he'd essentially just trapped another human being with him?? Viktor paused, glancing over at Jayce spoke again. "I-I'm sorry. I got too excited and I made a reckless mistake. But I... I'll need your help if I'm going to undo it." Jayce finally met his eyes again. "...Please." While the apology did nothing to soothe Viktor's actual anger, he did at least... appreciate it. His hands tightened on his cane as he looked him over. Finally, he gave a heavy sigh of annoyance, asking what he could possibly help with. The way Jayce's face switched from shame to excitement was borderline jarring and Viktor furrowed his brow. Jayce had turned away before quickly coming back with a glowing blue orb. It gave small crackles and he was holding it with a thick, leather glove. There was no trace of the shame or apologetics he'd just displayed, just that intense focus and curiosity again. "...I feel as if that conversation was not as impactful as I'd hoped." Viktor stated flatly. Jayce paused before quickly assuring him that it had been before changing topics and asking him to hold out his hand. Viktor blinked before hesitantly doing so. Jayce placed the orb down into his palm and Viktor startled as all traces of transparency were forced from his body. He... He was stunned silent for a moment. Was he...? Three taps of his cane. The noises were much louder than before. All of a sudden, there was a hand on his shoulder, giving it a squeeze. Viktor could only feel panic rising in his chest. "T-Take this away." He managed. Jayce paused before saying that it was making him solid again. "Take it away!" Viktor snapped, forcing Jayce to take the orb back into his gloved palm as he shoved it to him. The moment it left his fingers, Viktor's body became light again and he jerked himself backwards, nearly dropping his cane with shaking hands. Being... fully corporeal. Almost physically alive again in an instant. It had scared the hell out of him. Jayce stared at him, studying his reaction in confusion. "I, uh, I thought you would be more excited about that." Jayce admitted, setting the orb back in a container. "The magic in the Hex Crystal kickstarted the magic making up your form. You just became almost completely physical again by holding it." Viktor furrowed his brow, asking in quieted shock if it had momentarily formed a body. "Oh, no, no. Maybe with enough tinkering, it should, but right then, it was just boosting your form to a more solid manifestation." Viktor stared at him. "What do you mean 'it should'? Jayce, that is necromancy. Which, need I remind you, is very much illegal." His hands were tight on his cane. "Haven't you gotten in enough trouble??" Jayce paused as Viktor spoke. "You do know what the capital punishment for such a thing is??" For once, Jayce actually seemed to be considering his words before he sighed. "You're right. I should put a pin in that for now." Jayce said, moving back to the table. What? No. No, he shouldn't be considering it again at all. Viktor opened his mouth to speak again before watching as Jayce grabbed a pair of goggles, sliding them on and starting to work with his equipment again. He was building something else and there was no way that anything Viktor said would get into that thick head of his right then. He gave a sigh, turning away as he buried his face in his hand again. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds to assess his situation. Three seconds of futility. Three more taps of his cane. He closed his eyes. He wished he could just go back to his balcony, but it didn't even seem like that was an option anymore. His hand fidgeted on his cane. "Viktor!" He paused, opening his eyes and glancing back at Jayce with a raised brow. The other beckoned him over. Now what did he want??Viktor turned, his cane softly tapping the floor as he moved over. Jayce pulled his goggles off, showing off his device. It look like a stand of some kind. Viktor paused as Jayce pushed it towards him. "Touch this." Viktor raised a brow at him and Jayce faltered. "Pl-Please." Viktor reached out to it and when his fingers touched it, the stand suddenly activated. Viktor startled, his hand exploding into mist for a moment as he yanked it back. The moment he'd stopped touching it, the device had powered down again. Jayce was studying it before furrowing his brow. "If that's how it reacts to the arcane magic in a suspended form, I might have to make this a lot bigger." He muttered to himself. He instantly got up, going to root through his equipment. Viktor paused, raising his hand and glancing at it. "What are you attempting to do?" He finally asked, looking over. He jumped as there was a loud clatter, Jayce having started to cut apart what looked like a failed previous invention. "I just need to prove that the magic from the Arcane can be harnessed. That I'm able to bring it over to our world and utilize it. Contain it! Control it!" Jayce's voice became slightly desperate again and even bordered on feverish, but the tone was gone the next moment. "I need this to work and I know it will." Viktor asked how he could be so sure and Jayce glanced over at him. "Because you're here. A form made up of Arcane magic, freely walking around. You were even doing it without any kind of anchor." He fell abruptly quiet as he started to weld pieces of metal together, his brow furrowing in focus. Viktor watched him before sighing. So this had honestly been his fault? He wanted to call what he'd given Jayce hope. He wanted to call it hope, but really, what he seemed to have given him was a manic determination. Viktor moved away from Jayce, allowing the other to work. He did end up being unceremoniously dragged at a couple points when Jayce started carrying his pieces over to a larger area of the lab. He let out a hiss of annoyance as the chain yanked him back for a third time. However, when it seemed Jayce was going to be staying in the larger area, Viktor had no choice but to follow. He moved over, watching as Jayce pieced the machine together. It really seemed like a perfect scaled version of the small stand he'd built. He didn't think Jayce had even looked at the smaller one once for reference before building this and it was... admittedly impressive. He paused as he took note of the subtle shifting in lighting around the room. He glanced up, seeing the sky having changed from a dark grey to a lighter one. It seemed like it was still snowing but... the night was nearly over. He watched as Jayce moved back over to the table, picking up the container of Hex Crystals before coming back. He popped open panels around the stand, carefully slipping a crystal into each one before shutting them. The device was letting out quite a warble when he was finished, but it still didn't seem... on. Viktor watched as Jayce attached a power cord to the base of it. "Jayce? You are sure this will not get out of control?" Jayce paused, glancing up at him."The base Rune is my Binding Rune. The resulting energy that forms should remain firmly locked in place." Jayce assured him. Viktor remained uncertain before giving a small nod. He backed up a small bit as Jayce reached out, dragging over the cord that stretched from the wall. "Ready?" Viktor nodded again, though he wasn't sure if he was prepared to see someone get absolutely vaporized. He watched as Jayce clicked the plugs together. The resulting burst of energy nearly blinded Viktor. Not from how bright it was, but how badly it had suddenly seemed to drag down on every inch of himself, just for a moment. It felt like gravity had increased tenfold, nearly dragging him to his knees. Every piece of hair and every tooth suddenly weighed an individual amount and Viktor had to force himself to stand again once it had passed. He was dragging in breaths. His head was left spinning, to add to the constant headache that already resided there. He shakily raised a hand to it. Three seconds to breathe. Three seconds to recover. "Hey, are you alright??" Jayce's voice called out and Viktor blinked. Why was he yelling...? He paused. The entire section of the room was suspended in a bright blue light. A sphere seemed to have formed in the center, shimmering and pulsing. He'd... He'd really done it? For a moment, Viktor was left speechless. He hadn't... actually thought Jayce would be able to do it. He blinked. Where had the other gone? "Up here!" Up?? Viktor raised his head before his eyes widened as he saw Jayce drifting in the air. Several other objects seemed suspended in air as well. Viktor was within the ring the energy seemed to create, but as expected, the lack of gravity didn't affect him. He watched as Jayce let out a soft, delighted laugh. He tipped his head. Even though he still didn't feel too fondly about the other, he... he was witnessing some kind of breakthrough and he knew it. And it was incredible. Jayce turned to look down at him with bright eyes. "We did it!" Viktor paused, staring up at him. What?"Jayce, I didn't do anything." He replied, a little taken back. Jayce shook his head, rolling his eyes. Apparently Viktor wasn't understanding something. He frowned a little and turned away. He stretched out his hand, watching it disappear as it left the ring of light casted by the sphere. Was he... fully visible right now? He felt a little more solid, but nothing nearly as terrifying as holding one of the crystals directly. He paused as he heard the faintest jingling of keys from the direction of the lab door, a chill going through his body. Almost every part of him nearly exploded into mist as he tried to leave the ring. He let out a small noise of frustration as he was pulled back by the chain in his wrist. He couldn't. He heard the hiss of the door, panic continuing to flare in his chest. He couldn't. Viktor's body locked up as he heard Heimerdinger's voice. "Well, I'll be! When Miss Merdarda had told me about your little nighttime excursion, I'd thought I'd find you passed out in here somewhere!" He exclaimed, the soft pattering heard as he entered the room. Jayce only smiled as he orbited the sphere. "Look at that! By the gods, you can feel the power it radiates!" He... still had that flair for words. Viktor sensed the instant Heimerdinger saw him. He didn't even have to look. The air had gone tense and the room was completely silent except for the hum of the base device. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and he finally managed to glance over, meeting the old Yordle's wide eyes. When Heimerdinger spoke again, his voice was soft with shock. "...Viktor?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
More than anything, Viktor wanted to disappear. He tugged weakly against the blue chain again, but to no avail. He couldn't go anywhere while Jayce was floating. Heimerdinger seemed hesitant to approach him, pulling his eyeglasses down to look at him. "Bolts and gears, it really is you, isn't it??" Viktor glanced over at him again before speaking, saying that he was shocked the Professor even remembered his face, let alone his name. He saw Heimerdinger pause. "My boy... last time I saw your face, it was spread over concrete. Of course I wouldn't forget it." Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. Was that it? He startled, bits of him pooling in mist as Heimerdinger moved closer. He immediately moved back in response and he saw pain in the other's eyes. "Viktor...""Don't. I have nothing else to say to you." Viktor had to control the strain of his voice. "I am ending this experiment." Viktor backed up towards the device and he used his cane to lift the cords off the floor. He pulled them apart and the entire area went dark as Jayce was heard hitting the ground with a yelp. The cords slipped through Viktor's fingers and he knew he'd become invisible once more. All of the other objects clattered to the ground and Jayce pushed himself up, rubbing his head. Viktor backed up, hitting the wall and sliding down it. His headache had flared up and he squeezed his left eye shut, able to feel the aching under his eyelid. Heimerdinger had finally moved over to Jayce, clearly having questions about his acquaintance. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, raising his hand up to his head.He flinched as it crack in under his hand, him giving a heavy sigh of annoyance. He opened his eye to see Jayce covering his mouth and looking queasy before telling Heimerdinger that he could tell Viktor was still here. Viktor started to pull his skull back into shape as he sat against the wall, knowing Jayce could hear every squish and cracking noise. He wasn't trying to be mean to him, but maybe if Jayce hadn't forcibly trapped him, he wouldn't be subject to these noises. He finished fixing his skull, pushing himself to his feet. He moved forward before reaching out and smearing his blood down Jayce's shoulder as he passed him, making the other squeeze his eyes shut mid-sentence as his face went pale. He squeezed his eyes shut before making a small noise of disgust and seeming to compose himself again. Viktor heard their quiet conversation start back up after a few worried statements from Heimerdinger. Viktor moved back to the table, leaning against it. He would rather be anywhere else. He paused as he felt the tugging against his chain and glanced over. It seemed like Jayce was trying to get him to come back, but the cold look Viktor gave him seemed to be enough to dissuade him and he seemed to tell the Professor that Viktor didn't want to speak right then. Viktor shut his eyes again. His hands fidgeted on his cane and he paused as he eventually heard Jayce let out a weak laugh of disbelief. "R-Really, Professor??" "Yes, my boy, really! Go and get some rest. I'll present this to the other Councilors and I fully expect to see you in class tomorrow, ready to work!" Heimderdinger sounded proud of him and Jayce thanked him in a shaking voice. Heimerdinger seemed to glance around before adding something else to Jayce. Jayce stared at him before giving a small nod. Heimerdinger turned and the soft pattering of his footsteps soon left the room. Viktor had turned his head away. He heard footsteps after a moment, quietly approaching him. "...Did you have to wipe your blood on me in front of him??" Jayce asked, still sounded slightly unnerved. Viktor glanced over at him, remaining unamused. "...I-I don't understand. You seemed like you were looking at that picture with fondness... I didn't think there was... a problem." He was stumbling over his words. Viktor replied that he didn't seem to think at all, raising his chained wrist. "Case in point." He stated bluntly. Jayce shrunk down a little bit before pausing as Viktor spoke again. "I assume you're no longer under threat of expulsion?" Instantly, Jayce's eyes lit up and he nodded, a smile spreading across his face. Viktor really didn't like how quickly the other seemed to recover from his emotions. There wasn't a trace of concern or uncertainty anymore. "I-I'm reinstated! A-And the Professor says he will help me with my study! Perhaps even get me, uh, funding to try for bigger goals!" He sounded so excited and Viktor looked him over before replying that he was happy for him. Jayce blinked. "You, uh, certainly don't sound it. Let's... Let's go back to the apartment and maybe I can find a way to... release the Binding." Viktor nodded, saying he would appreciate that. One of the things that had been bothering him most about this was his lack of immediate travel. He couldn't just materialize at the apartment anymore or it would drag him right back to Jayce. It only gave him three seconds before it would do so. Three seconds of freedom. He followed Jayce out of the lab and down the halls. The other had buttoned up in his heavy cloak again, having brought the bracelet and his journal with him. Viktor didn't even bother waiting, fazing through the front doors and stopping outside. No puffs of air escaped him. He heard the door open behind him, but there was nothing. He paused and turned to look back at Jayce. Jayce was staring straight forward at the blanketed streets, his whole body seeming locked up. Right, he was... afraid. Viktor furrowed his brow. "Jayce. Let's go." He prompted. Jayce met his gaze for a moment. He still wouldn't move and Viktor could see how every part of his body was stiff. Was he really that scared?? He gave a small sigh through his nose before moving back over to him. He didn't have time for this. "Deep breaths." He told Jayce, getting the other to focus on him. Jayce paused before doing as he said. The moment he exhaled, Viktor stepped into him. He squeezed his eyes shut, feeling himself be twisted around as he connected himself to a physical form again. After a few uncomfortable moments, he managed to open his eyes. He let out a quiet breath... and it came out in a soft cloud around him. He moved from the doorway, momentarily enraptured by hearing the snow crunch under his feet. He raised a hand to his chest, furrowing his brow as he felt how hard his heart was pounding. "Good gods, you could've passed out." He muttered to himself. His accent was a little funny in Jayce's voice, but he certainly didn't plan on staying long enough to try and hide it. He pulled the cloak of the hood up and started through the streets. It felt... so nice to have two working legs. Good gods, it felt so nice. He remembered the path back to the apartment easily, his feet following it as if it were second nature. The entire time, his wrist was tingling and Viktor furrowed his brow before raising it, looking the Rune over. He did wonder where Jayce could've gotten something like this, considering one so precisely cut and detailed would usually cost someone a life debt. He knew he had full access to Jayce's mind and memories like this, but he was not interested in prying. Something about this man disturbed him beneath that handsome face. Once he reached the residential building, he slipped inside, climbing the stairs until he came to his destroyed door. Jayce's body was big enough that he actually had to open it to get inside instead of just stepping through the hole. Viktor carefully shut the door before moving to the center of the room. He closed his eyes before gathering himself and stepping out of the body. He heard Jayce drop to the floor, the other pulling in shaking breaths. Viktor materialized his cane, turning himself back to face Jayce. "My apologies. I would've given a warning, but my patience was running thin." He admitted, his eyes drifting off to the side. Jayce's face was flushed and his eyes were wide as he looked up at him, seeming speechless. "I know it can be jarri-" "Do it again!" Jayce suddenly exclaimed, making Viktor jump a little. Viktor stared down at him before furrowing his brow. What? He repeated the word out loud and Jayce stumbled to his feet, his breath coming out in heavy clouds. "Again. Possess me again." He looked beyond excited and Viktor was a little stunned. Jayce's ears were even red. "Please??" Viktor hesitated before he nodded. He told Jayce to take a deep breath again, the other eagerly doing so before Viktor stepped inside of him once more. He was turned around once again, reconnecting to all the points. This time, however, he didn't force Jayce completely into his subconscious. He could feel his excitement making his heart race. Viktor raised a brow before holding up his hand, looking it over quietly. Jayce's hands were calloused. Like he was used to working with them. Working with heavy things. Viktor paused as a memory of a forge sprung up in his mind, Jayce's pride accompanying it. "Ah. A forge family. Do you believe yourself gifted in your craft?" Viktor asked, his accent mixing messily with Jayce's voice as he spoke aloud. Jayce's pride only grew and Viktor paused as more memories appeared. They were a little more blurry. A father showing him basic safety. Drawings he'd made of hammers and gears. Viktor nodded. He glanced over at the snow still falling outside the hole in the wall. Fear suddenly ripped through his body, but it wasn't his own. A blurry memory of a snowstorm entered his head. It was so rushed and panicked. A woman collapsed on the ground in front of him. His small mittens trying to warm her hands. Viktor blinked, quickly pushing the memory away. "...I understand now." He said quietly. "I want to be clear that I was not poking fun at your fear." There was a rush of doubt. Viktor sighed softly, furrowing his brow. "Can I leave your body now?" He jumped as dismay flooded his chest. No?? Viktor was wide-eyed. "How... is this fun for you? Another person invading your form. Your very body and mind. I can see all your memories. I can feel your emotions." As he spoke, he felt that excitement flaring back up again. Viktor furrowed his brow. He really didn't understand. He froze up as he felt the softest nudging at his own mind. His own memories. Instantly, he threw himself from Jayce's body, materializing his cane and quickly retreating near the wall. Jayce had collapsed in the middle of the room again, his face still completely flushed. He seemed a much more embarrassed this time as he sat up. "S-Sorry!" He blurted out in a breathless voice. "Sorry, I shouldn't have..." Jayce held up his hands in quick apology. He sat back on his knees, holding his hand on his forehead as he let out a shaky, excited exhale. "S-Sorry." Once Viktor had calmed his own tenseness, he could only look him over in confusion. He commented that Jayce seemed far too excited about this. "I-I've never experienced anything like it before!! I could feel you inside of me! Moving me!" He exclaimed, his eyes bright. Viktor could only stare at him quietly. "And that does not scare you? Losing your autonomy?" He asked, raising a brow. Jayce gave a soft laugh, saying that there was something so thrilling about it. Some kind of adrenaline rush. Something dangerous and he seemed like he loved it. Viktor stared at him quietly. "...You are strange, Jayce. Something is wrong with you." He stated bluntly. Jayce only gave that quiet laugh again, saying that he knew. He ran his hand through his hair, watching Viktor with curious eyes before opening his mouth. "I'm not doing it again." "Why not?? You can fully push me down this time!" Jayce exclaimed. "You can have full control, I don't mind!" Viktor rolled his eyes and shook his head as he turned away. "Viktor, come on." "Absolutely not. You are enjoying that far too much." Viktor said, moving over to what remained of the couch before sitting down. He watched as Jayce seemed to try and compose himself, keeping his eyes shut before pushing himself to his feet again. He gave a small stumble, a smile still on his lips. "You said you would work on breaking the Bind." Viktor reminded him, furrowing his brow. Jayce blinked, staring at him before nodding. He glanced to the side and Viktor paused. "What's wrong now??" "Oh, uh, I just... I think I might just be... tired." Jayce trailed off and Viktor startled as the other seemed to pass out, hitting the floor again. As he stared at his crumpled form, he made a small note that he'd likely have to remind Jayce to check for bruising. It was barely past sunrise and he'd already hit the ground pretty hard twice. Viktor gave a small sigh against his hand. Well, he guessed it made sense. Jayce had been up all night working on that project. It looked like he'd have to wait a little longer before Jayce could break the Bind. If he could at all. Viktor shook his head, pushing himself up from his spot. Three taps of his cane. Three steps to reach Jayce. Three seconds to take control of him again.Viktor winced as he pushed himself up. Jayce definitely had bruising on one side. He got to his feet and moved over to where he remembered his closet being. He started to dig through it, finding a scarf and a blanket. Jayce didn't have anywhere else to go and there was a gigantic hole in the side of the room. Viktor couldn't have him getting sick. He wrapped the scarf up around his neck and pulled the hood of the cloak up before moving back to the couch. He sat down, laying the blanket over himself before tipping his head back. Once he was settled, Viktor detached himself once more. Another materialization of his cane. Another three taps. He turned to look back at Jayce before allowing himself a small scoff of amusement. He'd completely bundled the other up, only soft clouds of breath escaping his hood.Viktor finally turned away. He moved over to the ledge as far as the chain would allow him before dematerializing and reappearing in a sitting position. The snow continued to fall through him as he dangled his legs over the edge, his cane neatly placed in his lap. He could only stare out over the snow-covered buildings. Feeling someone touch his mind like that, even if only for a moment, had made his headache so much worse. He squeezed his left eye shut again before his other eye followed. He raised a hand to the back of his head, pressing on the spot before letting out a small gasp as he broke that section of his skull open, relieving the pressure for a little bit. He knew it would close up again soon, but just for now. He opened his eyes again. Viktor let out a shaky sigh as he felt something wet start running down his face from the inner part of his left eye. It would stop eventually, he just had to wait. He lifted his head, hoping that being Binded to this man wouldn't be a second death of him. He paused as an unflattering noise cut through the chilly air. Soft, but consistent. Gravelly. Viktor rolled his eyes, his blood staining his hand as he buried his face in it. "And he snores. Incredible." He muttered.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It was late in the evening when Jayce's breathing quieted. It had stopped snowing and Viktor remained sitting out on the snow ledge, his eyes closed. He heard the couch creak before Jayce made a small noise of effort. Viktor opened his eyes and glanced back at him. "Are you aware that you snore?" He asked flatly, making Jayce jump in surprise. It seemed to take Jayce a moment to remember the situation before he nodded. He started to answer aloud before he went a little pale and made a small face of disgust. "Yeah... A-Are you aware that your...?" He gestured vaguely around his face and Viktor rolled his eyes, nodding as he turned to look forward again. "...Are you going to clean it or...?" Viktor sighed, replying that it would fade away on its own. There was nothing for a moment before Jayce spoke again. "I... I believe you, but I would really appreciate-" "I would have appreciated not being Binded against my will. Life is filled with thankless gratitudes, isn't it?" Viktor replied, Jayce going silent behind him. Viktor hesitated. "...My apologies. I have not stopped bleeding for about four hours now. The first few times this happened, I would try to wipe it away, but all it would do is smear. It would just... make a mess." He explained quietly. "Unfortunately, I will look like this a little while longer." He stared out at the moon, finally able to see it. It was just as beautiful as always. But it would never be as picturesque as those three seconds he'd last seen it. Three seconds of moonlight. He paused as Jayce spoke up again, shuffling heard. "Hey, Viktor?" What? Good gods, what now? Viktor glanced over and paused as Jayce came over, hesitantly settling on the ledge next to him, though he was keeping a fair distance from his bloody form. "I hope this doesn't come off as... invasive, but..." It probably would. "What... happened to you?" Viktor stopped. He... He really didn't think he would have to spell it out for him and the look he gave Jayce was both disbelieving and disappointed. Jayce blinked before it seemed to click. "Oh, no, no, I..." He glanced over the ledge uncertainly. "I can piece together how you, uh... how that happened." He gestured to him and Viktor only felt slightly more insulted. He didn't say anything though. "I thought you were going to be happy to see Professor Heimerdinger again. You were holding that picture frame... fondly. He said-" "Jayce." Viktor's voice shook a little and he tightened his grip on his cane. "I appreciate your worry. I do. But that is not something I ever want to speak about again." He heard Jayce fall silent before the other said that he understood. He definitely didn't. He blinked as Jayce spoke again after a few moments, saying that they should go. "Go? Go where? Isn't this where you lived?" Viktor asked, raising a brow. Jayce pushed himself back from the ledge before he got up. He started to walk over to the desk and Viktor jumped, nearly falling over as the chain in his wrist dragged him backwards. "Jayce!" He stated the other's name scoldingly and Jayce was heard quickly coming back. "I actually have another place I can go to. And they'll be... so relieved to hear that I'm not getting expelled." Jayce gave a soft chuckle. Viktor dematerialized and reappeared on his feet, following after him. Jayce leaned away from him a little awkwardly. "Oh, uh, the blood's fading." He tried to say encouragingly. Viktor glanced him over before replying that it didn't seem like he was the one who was most concerned about that. "Yeah, sorry, I just, uh..." He trailed off and Viktor spoke immediately. "If you ask me to clean it off again, it's going on your cloak." He responded flatly. He felt Jayce jump and shuffle away from him. "Are we leaving or not?" Jayce nodded, quickly opening the destroyed door and exiting the room. Viktor followed after him, fazing through the wall. He soon emerged with Jayce onto the snow-covered streets. There were still citizens awake, donning heavy winter cloaks and fancy coats. Viktor watched them pass by quietly. He had never owned a coat or cloak. He wasn't truly paying attention to where they were going, having kept his eyes on the back of Jayce's heels nearly the entire time. Jayce suddenly stopped in front of him and Viktor passed right through him, feeling Jayce give a heavy shiver. He jumped, turning to look back at Jayce to apologize before pausing. Jayce's eyes had widened and he seemed excited again, a smile on his lips. On second thought, maybe he wouldn't apologize.Why had he stopped?? Viktor paused as he scanned the area before his eyes widened. Were they... at an estate?? Whose manor was this?? Viktor was momentarily speechless as Jayce approached the large wooden doors, knocking loudly. A member of staff seemed to open the doors, inviting him to come in and wait while she informed Cassandra he'd arrived. Cassandra?? Viktor blinked, following along behind Jayce as the door was heard shutting behind them. They were in a nice parlor area, Viktor's hands tightening on his cane. It was... far too nice. This... was a... nice house. Who did it belong to?? Three taps of his cane. Three seconds of silence. "Jayce, where are we?" He finally gathered the courage to speak and Jayce glanced over at him, seeming like he was about to answer before straightening up as he heard footsteps."Jayce Talis!" An older woman's voice spoke strictly as she came down the stairs. The way she held herself was proper and confident. Powerful. Old money. Viktor had never felt so anxious. Was this Cassandra? "You could've made a fool of yourself. You risked exile!" She exclaimed, her eyes narrowed on him. Jayce only smiled nervously, saying that it had worked though. And he was still here. Cassandra let out a small sigh through her nose. "It may have worked out for now, Jayce, but you must control your reckless abandon. I don't want my daughter trying to follow that example." Viktor blinked. So Jayce being reckless was normal? Fantastic. Cassandra's eyes softened on him as he gave a bow, saying in a promising tone that he was trying to be better about it. Viktor could only roll his eyes. "I heard about your apartment. You're welcome to stay until you can find another place. Which I expect you will." She added firmly, making Jayce jump. "Of course. Thank you, Mrs. Kiramman." He said politely. Cassandra nodded, gesturing for him to head up the stairs.As Jayce climbed them, Cassandra called out again. "You know my daughter will want to see you first thing tomorrow!" "I'll be there!" Jayce called back. "Goodnight!" Cassandra wished him goodnight as well. As they moved through the carpeted halls, Viktor remained silent. Jayce seemed to know where he was going, soon stopping in front of a door and pushing it open. He slipped inside before shutting and locking it. Viktor could only stare around the room with wide eyes. It was a massive bedroom, a door leading to a bathroom off to the side. The bed itself was king-sized and Viktor immediately moved forward, stretching his hand out to the sheets. He drew his fingers over the fabric, instantly lighting up a little. It was soft. Unbelievably so. Moonlight shone in through a window and it seemed that Jayce had been in this room before, moving over to a wardrobe and opening it up. There was only three or four things hanging up. One looked like a backup uniform. The others were lounging clothes. This was... Viktor was distracted by the window, moving over and looking outside. He could see a snow-covered garden. He was so distracted that his body nearly exploded into mist again as Jayce said his name. He turned to him with wide eyes. "Sorry." He glanced him over, seeming satisfied enough to move closer. The blood must've been gone. "I never answered you. We're at a family friend's. The Kirammans. They're on the wealthier side." He paused as Viktor replied that he could tell, turning to look back at the garden. His fingers tapped against the windowsill. Three taps. "Viktor, I'm going to go wash up. I guess... explore as much as you can." Jayce gave an awkward, yet encouraging grin, holding some clothes over his arm before turning and disappearing into the bathroom. The chain yanked Viktor forward and he swore. Was Jayce really going to take the damn Rune in there?? The answer was yes. Viktor was essentially left chained up right outside the bathroom door and good gods, he didn't think he'd ever met anyone who took so long. Once Jayce finally seemed finished, Viktor had watched the moonlight fully shift positions. The door opened and Jayce jumped as he saw Viktor. His hair was soaked and he was dressed in a loose shirt and trousers. "As much as I can??" Viktor stated flatly, holding up his chained wrist. "Don't tell me you shower with that on." Jayce hesitated and Viktor turned away, shaking his head. He pushed himself to his feet as Jayce apologized. "Could you just leave it outside next time? In case you may have forgotten, my whole form is anchored to it." Viktor reminded him firmly."I... I don't ever take this off." Jayce said after a moment, his thumb pressed against the crystal as he held his wrist. Viktor exclaimed that he was attached to it now and Jayce paused. "I just... I don't..." Viktor stated that he'd clearly taken it off before. "When it was confiscated." Viktor stared at him in disbelief before starting to speak. "I'm not taking it off!!" Jayce suddenly snapped at him, frustration exploding through his words. Viktor jerked back from him, both insulted and shaken by the other raising his voice. Jayce paused and glanced away. "I can't take this off. I can't let this out of my sight again." His voice was firm, but there was a tremor beneath it. He moved around Viktor, despite not really needing to. He sat on the edge of the bed, sliding his hand through his damp hair. Viktor stared after him before a quiet breath of frustration left him as well. He made his way over to one of the couches on either side of the room, settling down on it. Not only was he trapped, but he was irritated and his head still just... Viktor curled his hand up before smacking it against the back of his head, groaning in slight relief as his skull broke open again to relieve the pressure. The crack echoed around the room and Jayce turned to face him in shock, his ears slightly red. Viktor leaned against the couch, his hand lightly cupping the broken wound beneath his hair. "Viktor??" Jayce sounded concerned again and Viktor waved his hand dismissively. Jayce asked what it was again and Viktor replied that it would only make him squeamish again. "No, what was that??" "...There is a consistent ache in my head, where it first made contact with the ground. When it becomes too... unbearable, I... break the skull open to relieve the pressure. Just for a little while." Viktor replied quietly. Jayce stared at him, seeming to go pale again. He sounded dumbfounded as he asked if it didn't hurt. "I stopped feeling pain after my death. The only thing that remains hurting is that one spot." He pressed his fingers above it and gave a small shiver of relief. "I-It'll close back up eventually, but for right now, I can have some peace of mind." He glanced over and gave a soft scoff, a smile tugging at his lips. "...And you thought it wouldn't make you squeamish?" Jayce looked like he was going to be sick again, but he shook his head, quickly turning it away. "Could you... just not do that around me?" Jayce asked after a moment. What audacity. Viktor couldn't believe it as he scoffed, replying that he was sorry his broken body disturbed him. "Th-That's not what I meant. I just... don't like the noises your body makes." What audacity! Viktor narrowed his eyes and fully turned his head to look at him. He let his left eye go blind and fill with blood again, making Jayce inhale shakily as he backed up slightly on the bed. "You decided to Bind me. Against my will, I might add. Anytime I listen to you is a courtesy and nothing more. How I handle my pain is none of your business. Am I clear?" Viktor replied firmly as he looked him over with his good eye. Jayce furrowed his brow, clearly not liking the challenging tone as he stated that Viktor was Binded to him. That he had him. "Yes. And what will you do?? What could you do to me?? Do you believe your subtle threat scares me?" Viktor's voice filled with venom and Jayce weakened a little. "Grow up, Jayce. People will bleed. Bones will break. This world will not cater to you. I will not cater to you." He gave a heavy sigh, feeling blood start running from his nose as he turned away. "This world does not cater to any of us." He muttered. He didn't hear Jayce move for a moment. "...Stop telling me to wipe away my blood. It will fade without staining." After another moment, he heard the bed creak and glanced over as Jayce laid himself down, his back to him. Viktor shook his head, clearing his left eye once more and blinking a few times. Good gods, what an unbearable ego Jayce hid beneath his cheerful demeanor. Viktor wrinkled his nose a little, keeping his cheek pressed against the couch. He couldn't even take his bracelet off for an hour so Viktor wasn't forced to sit by the door like some dog?? He let out a small scoff of disbelief. The moment he was free... The moment he was free, he swore... "Stay those pretty eyes on course, Jayce." He muttered under his breath. "The moment you look away, I'll be gone."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Being dragged unceremoniously off the couch at gods-knew-when in the morning hadn't been part of Viktor's plan. The sky had just started to pale when Jayce's horrifying guttural snores had started to turn into something else. Something pained and frightened. Desperate. Viktor, who regrettably still wanted to be the better person, had turned to check on him, only for that bright blue chain to suddenly yank him back so hard, his wrist snapped once again. It had startled him more than anything and he'd been yanked right onto the floor. Viktor could only lay there for a moment, his eyes wide in shock. What was...? He flinched as the chain yanked at him again, a crunching noise following. He held the chain firm for a moment with his other hand. He just needed it still long enough for him to get up. He focused, dematerializing and reappearing on his feet. It didn't even give him a second before he was dragged forward again. He was pulled right through the bed, left awkwardly standing halfway inside of Jayce. What was he doing??He... wasn't even awake. Viktor paused. Jayce was gripping his wrist so tightly that he could already see the bruising starting to form. The Rune seemed like it had just been reacting to being crushed under his fingers, flickering wildly. Jayce's brow was furrowed and his mouth was parted as he let out another strained noise. "Jayce. Jayce, wake up!" Viktor finally spoke, reaching out to him. He slipped his hands inside of Jayce's, assuming partial control of his body. He quickly released his hand from his wrist before pulling his hands out of Jayce's again. He was still standing halfway inside the bed, finally moving out to the other side and kneeling down. Not only was there bruising, but there was blood. He could see the wounds Jayce had made by digging his nails into his arm. "...What the hell were you doing?" Viktor muttered, reaching out and snapping his fingers loudly next to Jayce's head. This finally seemed to shock the other awake and Jayce sat up so fast that Viktor nearly fell backwards. He'd opened his mouth and Viktor instinctively scrunched up, expecting some kind of yell or scream. Nothing but a shaking wheeze left Jayce's throat. His neck had a blue glow inside of it and Viktor paused, able to see the Rune flickering again. "Jayce." The other turned to look at him with wide eyes, seeming panicked as he grabbed his throat. "Stop that." Viktor smacked his hand, making Jayce jump. "Stop grabbing yourself like that. You are going to have nothing but bruises!" He moved forward, fazing through the bed and using one hand to push up Jayce's chin. Jayce made a muffled noise of confusion. "Jayce, I think you just Binded yourself." Jayce's eyes went wide as Viktor pulled his hand back, allowing him to lower his chin again. Viktor paused as he noticed his other hand. Oh, right. He murmured an apology before Jayce winced as Viktor cracked his broken wrist back into place. He flexed his fingers quietly before sighing. Jayce had seemed to calm down a little bit, but he still seemed panicked. "You used the Binding Rune on your voice, I believe. At least... from what I can tell." He glanced up at him. "You also activated it enough in your sleep that it dragged me all the way across the floor. Which was... certainly an experience." The last part was a mutter. He scanned Jayce over quietly. Jayce wouldn't be able to go anywhere like this. "...I may have an idea, but you won't like it." Jayce gave him a guarded look and Viktor raised a brow. "At least I am telling you before I do something. That concept seemed quite foreign to you." Jayce narrowed his eyes before he went completely stiff as Viktor spoke again. "I'm going to put my fingers in your throat. Tip your head back." It seemed to take Jayce a moment to process it fully before his ears suddenly went completely red and he pushed himself back from Viktor. Really? "All that excitement from me possessing you yesterday, but somehow this is where we draw the line?" Viktor asked, his voice unamused as he raised his brow. Jayce paused before glancing to the side. Apparently, he thought that was different. Viktor didn't see how, but he also knew he wouldn't be able understand him at all until that Bind was off his vocal cords. He seemed to be expecting something from Viktor and he paused before speaking. "...If I am of your... Arcane magic, as you say, I should be able to undo it from you, no? It does not seem to be a chain like the one you put on me." He gestured to his wrist. "It is not like my fingers are capable of suffocating you either. You can breathe right through them." Jayce was hesitant, scanning him over one more time before finally tipping his head back. The movement was slow and uncertain. Viktor moved forward and Jayce seemed to startle as Viktor's leg partially slipped inside of his. Viktor reached out, cupping the side of his neck before pushing his fingers in with the other hand. Jayce let out a strangled noise, though his breathing didn't seem hindered. Viktor furrowed his brow, hooking his nails in what felt like something fuzzy. It made static fizzle in the corners of his eyes just from touching it and he hissed in displeasure, pulling his hand back and shaking it. "Ugh." He could still feel the prickling on his fingertips. He blinked a few times, making the static disappear before turning back. He knew what he was going to do now and he turned back to Jayce. "Cover your mouth." Jayce paused before raising his hand up to cup his mouth. Viktor tipped his head back again, pushing his fingers into his throat once more and tightly gripping the fuzzy object. That static exploded into the sides of his vision again, but Viktor focused. Three seconds. Three seconds. Three- He tore the fuzzy object from Jayce's throat like he was ripping off an adhesive bandage and Jayce's following scream was luckily muffled. Viktor turned away, flicking the glowing blue ribbon to the floor. It flickered once. Then twice. It crumbled into nothing on the third one. He shook off his hand again, squeezing his eyes shut as he tried to clear the static from his vision again. Jayce started to cough violently as Viktor moved away from him. He dragged in shaking breaths. He had tears in his eyes and Viktor did admittedly feel a little bad, but not... that much. He blinked away what was left of the static before raising his hand. He did not like the prickling feeling it had left. He wrinkled his nose in displeasure. Jayce's coughing died down and he finally groaned, dropping back against the bed with his face buried in his arms. Viktor watched him before rolling his eyes and turning away. He felt like he was just being dramatic now. "I would've thought you'd have a little more control over this Rune." Viktor commented, materializing his cane and using it to help keep the pressure of his leg. He didn't exactly feel pain anymore, but his leg still had its ailing knee. While it didn't hurt to put pressure on it anymore, the uncomfortable feeling that would spread from it was more than enough to keep him using an aid. He hated that feeling, like his knee was just filled with static. It was unbearable at times. "Did you not use this Rune for your, ah... Hextech?" "I'd only use it on inanimate objects. Devices. You were the first thing I tried it on that wasn't either of those things." Jayce's voice was muffled and Viktor scoffed as he settled himself down to sit on the edge of the bed. He stated that hopefully, Jayce was starting to regret that. "Don't worry, I am." Viktor made a small, satisfied noise. Jayce finally pushed himself up, sliding his hair back out of his face. He kept reaching towards his throat before pulling his hand away again. He finally decided to get up, sliding his legs out of the bed before standing. "...I'm going to go change." "Have fun." Viktor muttered, his eyes lowering to the ground. He made another displeased face as he felt that prickling still haunting his fingertips. He did not like that. He hated that. After a few minutes, Jayce said his name again. Viktor glanced over, watching Jayce finish putting on his tie. It was the worst job Viktor had ever seen of anyone putting on a tie, in both life and death. He watched as Jayce just clipped the top and tucked the uneven ends into his vest. He hated it. He'd never hated anything more actually. Jayce paused as he saw his face. He seemed startled and Viktor dematerialized before reappearing in front of him. "Undo that right now." Jayce seemed taken back, his hands hesitantly reaching up and undoing the tie. Viktor dropped his cane to the side, having Jayce stand somewhere that he could be in his shadow. In the darker light, he was able to solidify his hands enough to start tying it. "...I've never seen you look that disgusted. Was it that bad??" Jayce asked, throwing his hands out to the side in quiet frustration. Viktor replied that it had actually one of the most atrocious things he'd ever seen, especially from a student of the Academy. Jayce sighed before jumping as Viktor yanked it tight, tucking it into his vest. He turned away, materializing his cane once more. "How you managed to do anything in that school is beyond me." Viktor stated, shaking his head. Jayce snapped that he didn't need a supervisor. "No, you need to be sedated." The reply only seemed to annoy Jayce more. He turned away, moving to the bathroom. Inside, he leaned in front of the mirror, brushing his teeth and fixing his hair. He spent... a lot of time on his hair. Viktor was stuck outside the bathroom, leaning on his cane. When Jayce came out, he tipped his head. "I remember you being a little nicer yesterday." He commented. Viktor shot him a dangerous look and Jayce sighed. "Once I get out of classes, I'll work on breaking the Bind. Now that we... know they can be broken." Jayce stated awkwardly, rubbing his throat. Viktor stated that he was welcome for that. Jayce rolled his eyes. He paused, studying the crystal on his wrist quietly. He seemed to be thinking. Viktor was growing impatient, his cane tapping against the floor as he moved ahead of him. He barely got a few steps before he was suddenly yanked back harshly by his wrist again. It snapped once more and he was dropped backwards as the chain went slack again. "Ohh." Jayce sounded intrigued as he pulled his fingers away from the crystal. "That's how I drag you back." Viktor instantly shot a furious glare up at him. "I see that look." It didn't seem like Jayce was going to do anything to remedy it though. He had clearly been unnerved by the sound of Viktor's bone breaking, but it seemed his curiosity over his discovery outweighed his unease. Viktor could tell this was about to be a huge pain in the ass for him as he reappeared on his feet. He shot a glare back at him. "You know, if we just communicate properly, we don't have to drag each other back and forth." Jayce stated, throwing his hands out to the sides again. "Right now, we're stuck to each other." Viktor scoffed before saying it had been because of him. "And I made a mistake! I can recognize that! But right now, we're both stuck with it." He yanked Viktor forward to stand in front of him. "And I am trying so hard not to let my curiosity get the better of me. You asked me yesterday what I could possibly do to you and I have answers now." Viktor's form started to spike up a little around his shoulders. He refused to back down, meeting his gaze. "I do not need a Rune to affect people. Remember that." He replied quietly. Jayce narrowed his eyes. "Need I remind you, it was you who Binded yourself to something like me." Viktor's hands tightened on his cane as Jayce spoke again, leaning down. "And need I remind you, who saved something like me from that ledge. Need I remind you which one of us has the softer heart." His golden-brown eyes bore into Viktor's. "Who really made the bigger mistake here?" He spoke his question in a hushed voice before moving past Viktor towards the door. Viktor was left still for a moment before he let out a weak, frustrated exhale. And this... was where a kind heart had gotten him. He finally turned and followed after Jayce before the chain could drag him.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Jayce!" It wasn't the sound of the younger girl's voice that startled Viktor, but more so the absolutely overjoyed tone it held. Jayce quickly moved down the stairs, holding his arms out. "Hey Sprout! Guess who's not expelled!" He exclaimed, hugging the young teen as she tackled him. Viktor furrowed his brow as he finished descending the stairs. How anyone could be so happy to see this man was beyond him. He paused and moved to the side before snapping his wrist back into place. He saw Jayce slightly flinch before assuring the girl that he was alright. "Cait, I have to get to my classes. Is your tutor going to be here soon?" He sounded worried and the girl smiled as she pulled back. "Father is still here! You don't have to worry about leaving me by myself." The girl assured him. Jayce chuckled. "Alright, alright, I'll believe you this time." He replied, making the girl roll her eyes. She shooed him away and Jayce laughed. "Bye, Cait!" The girl called out a goodbye as well and Jayce was off towards the front doors. Viktor was annoyed as the chain tightened, forcing him to move faster. He couldn't tell if Jayce was late or just doing it on purpose. Jayce stopped to put on his cloak and Viktor used the momentary reprieve to glance back as the girl disappeared up the stairs. Was that the daughter Cassandra had been talking about the night before? He startled as he was pulled, turning and following Jayce outside. He was struggling to keep up with him. Finally, he couldn't stand it anymore and he dug both his feet and his cane into the ground. Jayce startled, being yanked backwards. "What are you doing?? I have to get to class!" He turned on Viktor with a glare. "I am not as fast as you!" Viktor snapped, moving forward. He angrily pushed himself into Jayce's body, shoving the other down into his subconscious. He gave a heavy sigh as he took control of the body, his breath billowing out in a cloud around him as he rubbed his forehead. As always, Jayce's voice and his accent didn't exactly mix. "Good gods, you are such a pain." He started forward, following the street. He could see the top of the Academy from here and it wouldn't take him long to get there. Even if he'd never been over here, his sense of direction was unmatched. He moved effortlessly through the streets, feeling the Rune continue to tingle against his arm. Sure enough, he ended up right back on the main street, joining the throngs of students headed to the Academy. Viktor climbed the stairs before moving off to the side and detaching himself from Jayce's body. The other collapsed against the wall, turning to face him with red ears and heavy breath. He was glaring at him. "Mm. Suddenly you don't seem as excited about possession." Viktor stated, materializing his cane. "Curious." Jayce quickly stood up, composing himself as he hid the lower half of his face with his hand. He hissed that Viktor didn't even warn him that time. "Ah, my condolences." Viktor met his eyes. "Don't you have a class to be attending soon?" Jayce was trying to clear the red from his face and Viktor followed him as he slipped into the crowds. It was easy to keep up with Jayce in the closed hallways as long as he continued to walk through both people and corners alike. They stopped by one of the storage lockers and Jayce clicked it open, pulling out a bag. He slung it over his shoulder after taking off his cloak and putting it inside. He shut it again, locking it back up before turning and moving through the halls once more. As they moved through, students continuously spoke to Jayce, who would return their enthusiastic greetings. He did seem intent on getting to class and Viktor scoffed softly. "I was not aware you were so popular, but surely it's just the face." He stumbled as the chain violently yanked his wrist and he scoffed. Entering one of the seminar halls, Jayce soon took a seat. Viktor paused, pacing around in front of him. He hadn't been inside some of the classrooms in so long. It looked like they'd renovated this one. "Good morning, students." The voice that came from the door made Viktor freeze up and he watched the woman move past him up to the front of the room. The student all greeted Professor Young with differing levels of enthusiasm, all of them low. Viktor dropped his cane, moving back a little. Good gods... He hadn't... Something wet ran down his face from his eyes and he quickly raised his hand to wipe the tears away. He hadn't seen his childhood friend in so long. He hadn't even know she was a Professor. He'd never seen her. Skye smiled, starting to teach the class. From the looks of it, she'd completed her studies in psychology. As expected, she was older, but also... older than he'd expected and he... he really wasn't sure how long it had been. Skye had grey in her curls. How long... had it been?? He felt a tug on the chain and turned to look back at Jayce with wide eyes. Jayce startled, seeming like he hadn't been expecting to see Viktor crying. He could only stare for a moment and Viktor waved his hand at him, turning his head away. He didn't want to hear it. He didn't want to see it. Jayce could jab him about it later, he didn't want to hear about any of it right now. His shoulders sank as he felt that tug on the chain again. "Leave me alone." He finally spoke shakily, raising his hand to his head again. He finished wiping his eyes again before a strangled yelp left him as the chain suddenly went tight, dragging him backwards. It didn't seem to break his wrist this time, but he hissed as he fazed through Jayce's desk, now angrily leaned against the side of it. "I told you to leave me be!" He snapped at Jayce. The other kept his eyes forward, but his hand was writing on the paper in front of him.
Why are you crying???
"Why do you care? It's... not of your business." Viktor's voice weakened as he glanced up at Skye again. Her kind demeanor hadn't changed, but that anxiousness she'd always carried with her seemed melted away. She spoke calmly. Confidently. Kindly. Viktor's shoulders sank as he watched her. Skye had still been trying to decide whether she wanted to pursue a position in the Academy when he'd dropped. It seemed like she'd made a choice. And Viktor was... happy for her. There was an ache in his chest, but there was pride. He blinked as Jayce tapped the desk three times. He paused, wondering if Jayce had noticed him doing that with his cane. Jayce tapped his pencil against the paper again.
You know Professor Young.
"...Skye was my childhood friend. We were students together." Viktor finally admitted. "I didn't know she ended up pursuing a position here." He was leaning against the desk instead of his cane. He reached up, wiping his eyes one more time. Jayce had paused and he furrowed his brow. He wrote something else down.
How old are you??
Viktor stared at the question before lifting his head. He was trying to think. How...? Wasn't he...? "...I was in my 20's when I dropped... I don't know how long it's been." Viktor admitted quietly. "I keep thinking it's only been a few years..." He paused as Jayce wrote something else down.
The year was worn off the frame of that class photo you were in. The picture was yellowed.
He knew. He knew that, but he... Viktor trembled, bits of him curling into mist before reforming. How... How long had he been like this?? He raised a hand to his head. He didn't know. He didn't... He felt Jayce jump as Viktor shakily lowered himself down, leaning against the side of the desk. He kept his bad leg out in front of him and his good leg propped up against his chest. He rested his elbow on his knee before burying his head in his hand. He didn't know. He felt a tug and shook his head. "...I apologize for this." He felt Jayce freeze up before the other startled as Viktor's neck snapped to the side. His skull opened. His eye burst. His head caved. He couldn't hold a fixed form right now. His bones started to break, all the way from his wrist to his shoulder. He heard Skye ask if something was wrong with Jayce and the other stood up, excusing himself to the restroom. He quickly turned and Viktor's eye widened as the chain started to drag him. He felt humiliated. Good gods, he felt humiliated, being dragged along the ground in this broken state. He could see his blood being left in a trail along the ground, disappearing up into mist. He couldn't even get to his feet and Jayce entered the bathroom before shutting the door and locking it, releasing Viktor to lean against the wall before he quickly moved to the toilet. He became sick and Viktor furrowed his brow. Jayce was breathing heavily and he seemed like was trying to compose himself. His face was deathly pale. At least Viktor had apologized before breaking apart. Jayce finally flushed away his sick and leaned back against the other wall, burying his face in his hands. "What... happened to you in there??" He finally asked, his eyes wide as he stared at Viktor. He still couldn't even really seem to look at him. Viktor couldn't even bring himself to answer. Jayce was still breathing heavily. Viktor looked him over before saying that he'd either want to leave or return to the toilet. Jayce paused before moving back next to the toilet. "Are you going to-" He flinched, turning and gagging a little as Viktor started pull the caved in side of his face back out. "Fuck, do you have to-" He cut himself off as he became sick again. His body shuddered from the force of it. Viktor... did feel bad now. Especially with how loud the sounds were in a closed room. He pressed the back of his skull back in before getting to work on his shoulder and arm. He ended back at his wrist, lightly snapping it back into place. There was nothing but Jayce's pained panting now. "...I apologize." Viktor said quietly. Jayce glanced back at him with teary eyes before scoffing and saying that he was sure he was. "It's genuine. But you can believe what you want." Viktor dematerialized and reappeared on his feet, giving a shaky sigh. "I am not able to hold this fixed form of mine if my emotions spiral too far out of control. This... doesn't happen often. Just... the shock of seeing her again." He held his hand to his forehead, squeezing his eyes shut. He heard the toilet flush once more before Jayce stumbled to his feet. He looked even more exhausted than Viktor as he started to wash his face in the sink with trembling hands. He turned off the water, holding the sides of the sink as he leaned against it, his breathing having mostly calmed down. Viktor... felt bad. He did. His cane reappeared in his hands and he fidgeted quietly. "Jayce, you... may want to eat something." It was genuine concern. He didn't think he'd actually seen the other eat anything since they'd met. Jayce replied that he would rather starve with Viktor around. The words cut a little when he was genuinely trying to help, but Viktor turned his head away, his eyes lowering to the floor. It seemed like he would have to make Jayce eat. He was not going to let him go hungry. He... couldn't be that kind of person. He was... too kind of a person. "...Then starve."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
When the classes had ended, Jayce was on one hell of a mission to leave. Before he could put his bag in his locker and get his cloak, Viktor had to step in. Literally. He stepped into the back of Jayce's body, closing his eyes as his form stretched to occupy it. He pushed the other down before opening his eyes. He had to focus. He furrowed his brow, his hand raising to his stomach. Viktor hadn't eaten in years. He had no need to. But that feeling should not have carried over to a flesh and blood body. "What was the point of saving you from that ledge if this is how you care for yourself??" He muttered under his breath. He started to turn, planning on heading to the dining hall before nearly jumping out of Jayce's skin as another voice rang out. "Ah! There you are, Mr. Talis!" Heimerdinger sounded pleased to see him. "I would like to speak with you in my office! If I may, of course." Viktor turned to look down at the other. He gave a nod and Heimerdinger beamed. "Excellent! Follow along!" He turned and Viktor could only stare after him for a moment. He couldn't... He... was going to have to. He started to hesitantly follow Heimerdinger. The Yordle led him up the same path Viktor had walked many, many, many times during his life. It made his chest ache and his hands tightened on the strap of Jayce's bag. Three taps. They stopped in front of his office. Three seconds to reconsider. Three seconds to fail. The door swung open and Viktor sighed through his nose as he followed Heimerdinger inside, shutting the door. "Take a seat, my boy!"Heimerdinger hopped up into his own chair and Viktor chose the softer of the two chairs in front of the desk. He felt like he was going to be sick now. "I see you attended all your classes today! Do you get the rest I recommended?" The professor asked cheerfully. Viktor stared at Heimerdinger blankly and the other blinked, seeming confused by his silence. Viktor finally glanced to the side. "My apologies, Professor. The timing for this meeting was... not ideal." It was silent for a moment before he heard shuffling. He glanced up and straightened up in surprise as Heimerdinger moved forward, walking across his desk. His eyes were wide as he looked him over. His smile had faded and something pained had entered his gaze. "...Viktor." Heimerdinger spoke to him quietly. "I do hope you weren't attending his classes for him." It was a half-hearted attempt at a joke and Viktor scoffed, shaking his head. "Good. He nearly failed a number of his classes before that trial." Was he serious?? Why was Jayce even at this school?? Viktor couldn't help his exasperation, rolling his eyes and burying his face in his hand. "Oh! I... guess he neglected to tell you that?" Heimerdinger gave a nervous chuckle. "Everything I have learned about him has been against my will and everything I've heard has only made me question how he's gotten this far in his education." Viktor replied flatly, shaking his head. "He cannot even properly knot his tie, Professor." He made a frustrated vague motion with his hand. He paused as he heard Heimerdinger give a soft laugh. He replied that Jayce was a known risk-taker around the Academy. Something well-regarded in the realm of science. "He is not a risk-taker, Professor. He is reckless. He does not plan." Viktor said, resting his head against his hand as he leaned back in the chair. Heimerdinger's ears gave a small twitch before asking in a quiet voice if Jayce could hear them. "I hope he can." Viktor muttered. "Hm. It seems you two may not be... getting along as much I thought you would." Heimerdinger said after a moment, his ears lowering nervously as Viktor gave him an unamused look. "Perhaps his method is a little blunt, but wouldn't you expect it from the son of a forging family? I remember you... you used to be a little reckless yourself." He was trying for a playful tone, but it only tore at Viktor's chest. "And look where that got me, Professor. Humiliated. Shamed. Ridiculed. Openly diagnosed and outed in front of the entire Academy." Viktor's tone became scathing. Heimerdinger was quiet before saying that he remembered. "Then you also remembered doing nothing to stop it." Heimerdinger's ears lowered. "You couldn't let everyone see you defending this ill Zaunite, could you?" Heimerdinger started to say that it wasn't as black and white as he thought. "At the end of it all, Professor, I am the only one who saw black. And I couldn't even have that peace for long." He sighed and put his head in his hand. "...I must go to the dining hall. Jayce has not eaten since I met him." Heimerdinger seemed like he wanted to keep talking, but his ears shot up at Viktor's last sentence. "Ah... of course. Please go make sure he eats something." Viktor nodded, standing up from the chair and moving to the door. "Viktor?" He paused, but he wouldn't look back at his old mentor. "I'm sorry, lad." Viktor's shoulders sank, but all he did was open the door and slip out into the hall. His chest ached. It ached so much. He followed the stairs down until he turned the corner, slipping through the doors into the bustling mess hall. He crinkled his nose a little, already displeased with the amount of people there. He hesitated as students suddenly started to speak to and greet him, while the most he was able to give was a smile or a nod of his head. He finally found a quiet, nonoccupied table in a sparse corner, setting his bag down. He sat in the chair before pulling himself from Jayce's body. He jumped, his eyes wide at the strangled breath that left Jayce and he turned to look back at him with wide eyes, backing up through the table. Jayce was panting heavily, his head buried in his arm. His ears were red and Viktor tipped his head, raising a brow. He wasn't sure why being possessed excited the other this much. Personally, he felt he would've freaked out if something else was suddenly in his body and controlling it. He paused as Jayce finally lifted his head, resting it against his hand. "...Zaunite?" He echoed breathlessly, staring up at Viktor. Viktor paused before turning his gaze away, giving a silent nod. "You were a student at the Academy of Science. An Assistant to the Dean. And you were from Zaun??" He sounded absolutely dumbfounded and Viktor rolled his eyes. "Do you think we are idiots down in Zaun? I knew people that would've excelled here twice over." Viktor's hands fidgeted on his cane. "I was just lucky, was all." His gaze darkened as he stared at the floor. "For a little while, at least." Jayce furrowed his brow as he stared up at him. He seemed like he was calming down and he sighed. "You didn't have to say all those things about me in front of the Professor." He commented, getting up from his chair. Viktor replied almost immediately that he absolutely did before asking where he was going. "I'm getting food. That's why you hijacked me, isn't it?" Jayce rolled his eyes before moving away, headed towards the grill and salad bar. Viktor watched him go before lowering his head and closing his eyes. He was halfway fazed through the table in order to sit on the chair that was still tucked beneath it. He leaned his head against his cane. Really? Jayce wasn't going to fight him on this? He was surprised. Maybe the other was actually feeling pity. Viktor scoffed at the thought. He jumped as a plate was set down on the table after a few minutes. Jayce sat across from him.He'd gathered up a plate of pasta and some kind of meat, along with a bowl of fruit and a cup of sweetmilk. Viktor stared at the meal quietly before turning his head away. He hadn't had the need for food in years. Or the desire. As Jayce ate, he was watching Viktor quietly. Finally, he swallowed and spoke again. "What do you think will happen if you try to sleep while possessing me?" His tone was curious and Viktor blinked in surprise before glancing over at him. "Do you think you would be able to do it?" Hadn't they been mad at each other since yesterday?? What was with this tone?? Viktor looked him over before scoffing and turning his head away. "I just possessed you for not even twenty minutes and, upon leaving, your legs were shaking and you could barely get up from the table. I don't believe I want to test what would happen if I stayed longer. Especially in a stage of unconsciousness." As Viktor spoke, Jayce's ears had gone red and he avoided his gaze. He seemed like he'd started eating again just to avoid any questions. "I'm suspecting you’re using my ability as some kind of... physical thrill." That was the nicest way he could word it and yet he still watched as Jayce choked on his food. He coughed, turning his head to the side as he covered his mouth, saying it wasn't that. "Mm. Do tell." "I-It's just for the adrenaline rush. N-Nothing more than that." Jayce said, taking a sip of his sweetmilk as he avoided his gaze. Viktor didn't believe that for a second. He rolled his eyes and turned his head away. "I'm just curious. You haven't eaten and you haven't slept, so can you do it if you're in a body?" Jayce asked, looking him over. Viktor blinked. "Have you ever tried?" Viktor shook his head before speaking up again, saying that he was not possessing him again that day. "...I feel like you’re misinterpreting the intentions of my questio-" "I don't feel that way at all, considering I have been inside your head more than once." Viktor interrupted, raising a brow at him. That seemed to shut Jayce up instantly and he suddenly seemed to find his meal very interesting. Viktor scoffed, turning his head away again. He still didn't get it. They'd been at each other's throats this morning. He'd... He'd had his hand in Jayce's throat that morning. Why did it feel calm again? They'd borderline threatened to kill each other earlier, but now they were just... sitting. Discussing. Viktor didn't get it, resting his head against his hand. "Are you able to change your clothes at all or do you just have to wear your uniform all the time?" The next question surprised him and he glanced over before snorting. Was he taking notes?? Jayce was eating with one hand and writing with the other. He glanced up at Viktor expectedly. Viktor raised a brow, saying he was going to get food in his journal. "I won't, I'm really good at this." Viktor sighed before saying that he'd changed his clothes a few times, but they would always change back at the same time every day. "The same time? The time you died?" Viktor's fingers gave unhappy taps against the table before he nodded. "Do you remember the time?" Viktor raised a brow at him and Jayce seemed to scribble down the unspoken answer in his journal. "Isn't your journal for your research? Your Hextech?" Viktor questioned, turning to face him. "It's for anything of interest worth noting. 95% of it just happens to be Hextech." Jayce replied casually. He pushed the journal to the side before finishing his plate. He pulled the bowl of fruit over, starting on that next. Viktor scanned him over before asking if Jayce remembered that he'd threatened him that morning. Jayce glanced up at him before nodding. Viktor blinked. So casually? Jayce covered his mouth as he swallowed the piece of fruit he'd been eating. "I get pretty... pretty irritated when I haven't eaten for that long. But, uh..." Those golden-brown eyes met his again. "I meant what I said. I have theories on how to control things like you." Viktor's fingers curled against the table. "And I have theories on how to hurt things like you." Viktor replied with narrowed eyes that he had ways of defending himself that weren't anywhere near theoretical. Jayce didn't seem bothered by this, only nodding. "I'm sure. But I hope it won't have to come to that." "As do I." Viktor said quietly, giving the bright blue chain a small rattle. "I have never felt the need to become violent until I met you." He rolled his eyes as Jayce replied for Viktor not to flatter him in a flat tone. He finished the bowl, stacking all his dirty dishes together. "I'm certain the answer to breaking the Bind is in my notes. Just one experiment away. So, for the time being, we're partners in this endeavor." Jayce said, tapping his journal with a finger. "What do you think?" "I think... that I would rather break my neck again than hear you call me partner." Viktor replied calmly. Jayce scoffed before holding out his hand. Viktor furrowed his brow."It's not a trap this time." Jayce assured him with a smile. Viktor gave a heavy sigh before his hand moved up through the table and he took Jayce's. "I pray it's easier to work with you than it is to look at you.""Likewise." Viktor replied without a moment's hesitation.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Because that still counts as necromancy, Jayce, and I am not running around as an animal!!" Viktor exclaimed, tossing the journal back to him in disgust. Jayce threw his hands to the side as he snapped that Viktor should stop complaining then. They were both in beds on opposite sides of the room and Viktor narrowed his eyes before giving the bright blue chain a heavy yank, dragging Jayce off his bed and sending him crashing to the floor with a loud swear. "I'll stop complaining once you get this off of me like you said you would!! The only thing we've been able to figure out is how to make it longer and that was because of me!" Jayce glared at him before grabbing the chain and pulling Viktor straight through his bed before getting him stuck. "Jayce!""You're going to get us in trouble with the neighbors again!" Jayce snapped at him as he pushed himself up onto his knees. Viktor narrowed his eyes as he replied that Jayce was the only one they could hear anyway. So it was only his problem. Heimerdinger had given them both a new apartment in the residential buildings, though them living together seemed to be one of the worst ideas ever known to man. And it continued to prove true every single day. Viktor finally managed to squirm his way through the bed, collapsing on the floor. Great, now they were both on the floor. He raised his head to glare at Jayce, who only returned it. "I'm trying to help you, Viktor!" "That is not the help I want! I do not want a body, Jayce, I want to be unchained!" He raised his wrist and gestured to it furiously. And here it went. Jayce was going to bring it up again. "You cried. You cried after getting to sleep for the first time in however many years!" Jayce stated, throwing his hands to the sides. "You were inconsolable for three days!!" Viktor replied that it had just been a moment of weakness. That he never should've agreed to the experiment in the first place. "You want to be alive again, Viktor. And I can do that! Hextech can do that! Just let me do this!" Viktor snapped that he wasn't going to let Jayce use him to boost his already overinflated ego. "That is not the reason!" It absolutely was the reason. "And need I remind you! Still! Necromancy! You can still be exiled or executed for it! They will sail right past expulsion." Viktor stated in disbelief. Jayce rolled his eyes, asking why he would care if he were to be exiled or executed. "Because I am still attached to you!" He grabbed the chain, holding it up to Jayce, who leaned backwards with narrowed eyes. Viktor pushed himself up and returned to his sitting position on the bed. He buried his head in his hands. "Stop trying to give me what you think I want and give me what I'm asking for! I want the Bind broken! Can a 'genius' such as yourself not figure that much out??" Jayce stood up, scoffing as he brushed himself off and fixed his hair. He muttered that he was sorry for trying to help. "You're only allowed to say a thing like that when you actually are trying to help." Viktor replied flatly. "Which you aren't." Jayce waved his hand at him dismissively, moving over to their kitchen area and starting to make himself some coffee. After a few minutes of silence, Viktor tapped his fingers against the bed. Three taps. Three more seconds. "Professor Heimerdinger mentioned he was going to talk to other Council members about funding my research." There it was. Jayce didn't even remotely sound angry or annoyed anymore. Just excited again. He finally turned back to Viktor, leaning against the counter as he sipped at his mug. Viktor glanced up at him before nodding, stating that he knew because he'd been there. "Mm." Jayce made a noise of false acknowledgment as he took another sip of his coffee. "I think you've only met Heimerdinger and Cassandra. You know there's seven Council members." "So you'll have to make a good impression with five of them. I would give up now personally." Viktor replied, moving so he could lean back against the wall. "I have yet to see you make anything good, let alone an impression." Jayce rolled his eyes, saying that it was going to have to be him unless Viktor had already forgotten that he was dead. "Not only have I never forgotten this, but you also take great care to remind me everyday." He tipped his head at him, resting it against his shoulder. "Unless you've already forgotten?" Jayce muttered that he didn't need that tone. "You need antipsychotics, Jayce." "No, because that's not what's wrong with me." Jayce said firmly, setting the empty mug in the sink. "Oh, enlighten me on what the problem is." Viktor stated sarcastically. Jayce paused. "...It's not that. I know that much." He replied after a moment of thinking. It brought a weary smile to Viktor's lips as he turned his head away. "All of my decisions are of sound mind." He was kidding! "There is not a single thought that goes into any of your decisions!" Viktor exclaimed, instantly looking back at him. To his surprise, Jayce grinned. "Exactly. An empty mind is a peaceful mind. And a peaceful mind is a sound mind." Jayce stated as casually as if he were solving an equation. Viktor could only stare at him before a weak laugh of disbelief left him. Now he was trying to make him laugh?? He usually only did that around nighttime. Even after months of cohabitation, Viktor couldn't place which personality Jayce displayed at any given time was the real one. Maybe they were all fake. Maybe he didn't have one at all. He was stubborn and egotistical. He was comedic and witty. He was awkward and concerned. He was dangerous. He was oblivious. Viktor didn't understand. The only thing that Viktor had only seen one time was a gentle side. That had come out during the aforementioned experiment they'd done. Where Viktor had slept for the very first time in years. And Jayce was right. It had felt so nice that Viktor had woke up in tears. Once he'd left Jayce's body, he wouldn't leave the room. He'd forced Jayce to miss classes with how absolutely destroyed he was. He'd kept his broken form hidden from Jayce and the other had had no sharp remarks. No scathing comments. Not even that usual disgusted look that arrived naturally when Viktor was in his broken form. Jayce had stayed by his side for three days. And on the fourth day, it was like nothing had happened at all. They were back to arguing. Flinging insults and then flinging each other with the chain. Which Viktor had been getting remarkably good at. He watched as Jayce disappeared into the bathroom to fix himself up. He waited until he heard him brushing his teeth before speaking again. "So what I'm hearing is no possession for today?" He heard Jayce choke and start to protest. "Jayce, you have to make good first impressions. I don't think you'll want to know the impression you'll leave if we do any type of possession experiments today." He heard Jayce give a groan. Those experiments were always the strangest. They were the ones where he had the most power and control over Jayce, yet the other was never terrified or afraid. They'd discovered the longest he could stay in Jayce's body was about twenty-three hours. However, after Viktor left his body, Jayce would be unable to walk for two more hours due to... 'mysterious circumstances', as he'd called it in the journal. They'd yet to successfully copilot Jayce's body, but Viktor had found he was also able to be a passenger. Where he could possess Jayce's body and allow the other to continue as normal. And Viktor had to admit, this kind of experimentation made him nervous. Jayce was really fine with just opening up his body like this? Straining it? And the answer had been yes. Because it was always Jayce who asked to initiate the experiments. And Viktor couldn't describe the absolute glee Jayce had in his eyes when he'd discovered Viktor was also able to just possess individual parts of his body by merging them with his own. Jayce was so weird and Viktor couldn't understand it. Despite his initial refusal, Viktor had also started trying to help Jayce with his Hextech. Even if he couldn't understand it. The one consistency they'd found was that anything imbued with Hex Crystals was capable of touching him as if he were solid. They'd discovered this when a piece of a device had impaled itself in his abdomen upon explosion. He hadn't felt pain and he hadn't bled, but both of them had been quite surprised. Viktor glanced up as he heard the water stop. "...Are we still fighting?" He asked, unsure if that had stopped or not. "I don't know." Jayce stated flatly as he came out of the bathroom, wiping his face with a towel. "Do you want to schedule it for later?" He glanced over and Viktor paused, unable to tell if he was serious or not. A smile pulled at his lips and Viktor finally broke, laughing quietly. Jayce watched him before turning away. He pulled his cloak down from the hook by the door, slipping it on before pulling his hood up. "Viktor." His voice was prompting and the chain suddenly started to retract, making Viktor startle."I'm getting up, I'm getting up! Stop doing that!" Viktor snapped, slipping out of the bed and materializing his cane as he moved over to him. He let out an annoyed sigh, moving out of the apartment with Jayce. He followed him down the halls before stopping just inside the doorway leading outside. It was snowing again. Just a flurry. Viktor glanced up at Jayce. The other was staring forward with a slightly clenched jaw. Viktor moved out first, tugging Jayce out into the snow by the chain. Luckily, once he was in it, Jayce snapped back to reality. Viktor rolled his eyes as the chain dragged him backwards, Jayce once again saying that Viktor didn't need to do that. "It works every time, does it not? Consistent results." As they walked, Viktor soon could tell it had been silent for a little too long. And he was right because Jayce started talking. "...If I were able to construct a way to create concentrated beams of energy using the Hex Crystals, do you think I could cut you in half??" Viktor sighed. He swore Jayce's thoughts only got worse every time he spoke. "Maybe if we start on one of your arms. Do you think the arm would grow back or would it disappear forever?? If those are the options, what would happen if I cut you in half??" "...Jayce, just because I cannot feel pain anymore doesn't mean I would agree to being cut in half." Viktor stated, raising a brow at him. "But, uh, beams of... concentrated energy would be interesting, no?" Jayce asked if he thought so, Viktor giving a quiet confirmation. He closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath before exhaling quietly. There was absolutely no way Jayce was getting funding at this rate.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Heimerdinger was waiting for them both within the halls of the Academy when they arrived. Once Jayce stepped inside, Viktor watched as Heimerdinger pulled the blue-tinted monocle from his vest and held it up. He peered past Jayce and Viktor glanced away as Heimerdinger's ears relaxed upon seeing him. "Good morning to both of you!" Viktor hadn't known that Jayce had made that for him until Heimerdinger had once turned and addressed him directly. It had nearly scared him into a second death. "You'll be meeting the youngest Councilor today. She may seem intimidating, but I promise she doesn't bite!" Jayce laughed, saying that he appreciated the warning. Heimerdinger started to lead them up the stairs towards the lab Jayce had been given for his research. It was one of those times that Viktor, once again, appreciated being dead and invisible. If he'd ever had to present his research to a Council member other than Heimerdinger when he'd been alive, he would have gotten sick. "Viktor." He paused, glancing up at Jayce's hushed voice. He watched as Jayce slowed his walk enough to stand next to him, though he kept his eyes forward. "I need this funding. Do not embarrass me in front of her." Viktor blinked. "I did not plan to. You embarrass yourself enough." Viktor replied. "Shall I schedule it for later?" His joke brought a smile to Jayce's lips and he shook his head, muttering for him to shut the hell up. Viktor allowed himself his own small smile before they turned the corner. He felt Jayce's step stutter as he saw the woman waiting by the door to their lab. She was clad in white and gold. Certainly and undoubtedly from an incredibly wealthy family. She turned to face them, two Enforcers having accompanied her. "Ah, greetings, Miss Merdarda! How are we this morning?" Heimerdinger greeted her as he came scampering up with his hands tucked behind his back. The woman calmly replied that she was quite well. And certainly intrigued to see what had Heimerdinger so eager. "Well, I'm sure you may remember this fine lad." He beckoned Jayce forward and the woman scanned him over with piercing hazel eyes. She replied quietly that she did remember him and she was surprised his excursions had worked out so well for him. Jayce gave a nod of his head, his own hands clasped behind his back. It finally struck Viktor where he'd heard this voice before. This was the woman who'd caught them trying to break into Heimerdinger's lab. He'd never actually seen her. "Mr. Talis has some fine blueprints to show you, to which he hopes you'll find a worthy investment." Councilor Merdarda nodded, but Viktor absolutely froze up as her eyes moved to him. She furrowed her brow and turned to face him. Before she could speak, Viktor snagged Jayce. "She can see me." He spoke quickly and Jayce stiffened immediately. His statement seemed to startle Councilor Merdarda and Viktor only panicked more. "She can hear me as well!" "Professor, we must enter the lab. Councilor Merdarda, if you would." He quickly opened the door for her and she narrowed her eyes before moving inside. Heimerdinger looked up at them in confusion before Jayce quickly leaned down. "She can both see and hear him, Professor." Heimerdinger's ears instantly pricked in surprise. "How peculiar!" He exclaimed. He moved into the lab, Jayce and Viktor following before the door shut. Councilor Merdarda seemed a little annoyed now as she furrowed her brow. "I believe an explanation for such statements is warranted. Quickly." She said in a slightly firm, unamused tone. "Mel." Heimerdinger's voice was gentle as he took his monocle off and wiped it off. From the way she reacted, it wasn't often he called her by name unless it was serious. He gave a quiet sigh. "The only way I am able to see Viktor is through glass imbued with the magic in Jayce's Hex Crystals. Even still, I cannot hear him. You must be... quite attuned." He sounded intrigued.Mel glanced over at Viktor, whose hands were fidgeting on his cane. "Is he a sorcerer of some regard?" She asked. Viktor was momentarily taken back and he couldn't help but scoff and turn his head away. Mel's lip slightly turned up. "...He seems quite disrespectful.""He's, uh, he's dead, Councilor." Jayce seemed to be the one to bite the bullet and tell her. Mel's eyes instantly snapped to her before her hands tightened. Her gaze was scanning over the three of them like she was desperately trying to figure out if they were playing a joke on her. She opened her mouth and Viktor hoped that she was about to say what he thought. "Councilor-" Jayce seemed to have the same idea and he put his face in his hand as Mel spoke, saying that he certainly didn't appear dead to her. Viktor's hands tightened in his cane and he wrinkled his nose. "Of course, Councilor, my apologies." Viktor spoke quietly, only muffling his sarcasm an little and Jayce immediately turned to him. "Keep it tame, please." He stated, his eyes boring into Viktor's. Viktor rolled his eyes before reaching up behind and pressing that one spot on the back of his head. The following crack and squish accompanied his shaking breath. Jayce turned his head away, his ears still slightly pink even though his nose wrinkled in disgust. Viktor's left eye twitched and he went blind before slightly tipping his head to the side. Mel jerked back as Viktor's neck gave a small snap, the vertebrae finally slipping off one another. He could feel the blood running down his face from his burst eye and Mel quickly turned away, covering her mouth."I-I see. And just how is it you are here in front of me?" She wouldn't look at him and Viktor carefully pushed his head back up into place. He sighed."I believe it actually relates to Jayce's research." He tapped Jayce's leg with his cane in a prompting manner, making him jump. "Y-Yes. He's right." Jayce quickly took over, Viktor turning away as the other dipped into his usual talk about Hextech and the magic surrounding it. Viktor gave a small sigh. He hadn't been expecting to be seen, let alone heard, let alone by a Council Member. Mel kept giving him uncertain glances. Viktor moved over to the stool he usually occupied, sitting down and allowing his eye to clear as he shook his head. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds to recover. Heimerdinger came scampering over to him, watching him in concern. Viktor waved his hand, silently assuring the Professor he was fine. They still hadn't addressed what he'd said to him before, nor did Viktor ever plan to. At the very least, Heimerdinger seemed concerned and often checked in on him, even if he couldn't hear him. Heimerdinger paused and they both turned to look as Jayce actually seemed to make Mel chuckle. He'd brought her over to the desk to show off his blueprints. Viktor raised a brow. Just from what he could see, Jayce seemed to relying heavily on controlling his expressions and using that face of his to his advantage. Right. Viktor hadn't expected that. He'd thought for certain that Jayce would scare away any potential sponsors. Every so often, Jayce would remind him that he was much more clever than Viktor gave him credit for. Viktor glanced up as he saw Mel gesture to him, Jayce following it. His eyes landed on Viktor and he rolled them, seeming to assure her of something. Viktor closed his eyes and rested his cheek against his shoulder. The back of his head being broken open was actually relieving him so much, the pressure and the ache temporarily alleviated. He opened his eyes as he heard Jayce's chuckle. Mel had her hand lightly placed on his chest and though he still seemed confident, his ears had tinted pink again. He closed his eyes for another few moments before Mel was heard speaking a little louder. "I look forward to your endeavors." Her tone sounded slightly playful and Viktor glanced up as he watched her shake Jayce's hand. "I'd hope you come to check in on them from time to time then, Councilor." Jayce responded with a grin. Mel made a small, intrigued noise of acknowledgment before turning away. She clasped her hands and moved over towards Viktor and Heimerdinger. She scanned Viktor over uncertainly. "...I look forward to seeing how your presence affects the results of his research." She seemed very careful with how she worded her statement and Viktor raised a brow before nodding, replying that it was nice to meet her as well. Mel paused, not seeming to like that at all. "And I do hope our interactions will improve." Viktor didn't think he could say the same, but he only gave a nod in response. "I have... one question for you. And it regards the..." Her eyes trailed down and Viktor blinked before following her gaze to the chain that hung from his wrist. Viktor instantly rolled his eyes. "A certain someone did not yet have control of his Rune." Viktor replied. Behind her, he saw Jayce give a dramatic eye roll in response, turning away. As much as Viktor knew that he could sabotage Jayce right here and now, he chose not to. "As the magic is still foreign, we have yet to figure out how to break it. It is nothing of concern, Councilor." Mel seemed surprised by this before nodding. She turned to Heimerdinger, stating that she had to attend to business elsewhere. Heimerdinger thanked her for taking the time to observe Jayce's project. "Of course. It intrigues me." Mel turned to look back at Jayce, who was scanning her over again as he leaned back against the desk. Mel seemed to take notice and something playful appeared in her eyes again. "I'm pleased to invest in such a creative and... intuitive vision." Jayce gave a smile and Mel returned it before turning away and moving towards the door. Once she'd slipped outside, the door shut and Jayce let out a sigh of relief. He gave a soft bit of laughter. "That was, uh... That was easier than I'd thought it'd be." He said, grinning. Viktor gave a soft scoff. "I thought for certain you would scare her away. Using your face to your advantage was clever." Viktor stated. "The gods know that using your personality would certainly have gotten you arrested again." Jayce shot him a look, saying it wasn't that bad. "Of course, my apologies. It would depend on which personality you use, wouldn't it?" Jayce lifted his wrist and tightened the Rune, Viktor yelping as he was yanked from his stool, crashing to the floor. Jayce instantly seems to feign shock as Heimerdinger moved over to check on Viktor. Jayce sputtered out his false apologies as Viktor shot a glare up at him. Once Jayce had pretended to calm himself down before he laughed, seeming to playfully state that Viktor could be jealous of her all he wanted. "Me? Jealous of her? Don't flatter yourself, Jayce. I know what's behind that face." Viktor had thought this was along the lines of their usual banter, but he was momentarily taken back by the flash of confusion and hurt that passed over Jayce's face for just a moment. It was so fast that he may have even imagined it, but he was sure he hadn't. Jayce finally rolled his eyes, turning his head away. He could see the moment something changed, Jayce lighting up and excitedly tapping his hands against the side of the desk behind him. "The wealthiest person in Piltover! Funding me! Funding my work!" He exclaimed, like he still couldn't believe it himself. "I knew you could convince her, lad!" Heimerdinger said proudly, moving over to him as Viktor stood up, brushing himself off. He leaned on his cane, knowing that second long look was going to be on his mind for a while. He finally sighed and glanced up."Congratulations, I suppose." He finally spoke up and Jayce paused as he tipped his head at him, a smile pulling at his lips. "Now you only need to do that four more times."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jayce had not ended up securing any funding from any of the other four Councilors. In fact, one of them hadn't even shown up. Viktor wasn't that concerned about it. He'd expected it, after all. However, the walk back had been... startlingly silent. Of course, Viktor had recognized the distracted look on Jayce's face. He'd been thinking. And he'd been thinking about something extremely hard, but he had yet to tell Viktor what it was. Which was also startling, considering Jayce would usually just blurt out his thoughts. They were back in the apartment and the sun was setting outside. Viktor was sitting on his own bed, reading. He'd discovered he couldn't quite turn the pages if he touched them, but the wind from him waving his hand over the book would do the job. He could hear Jayce shuffling around in the bathroom. He'd been in there for quite some time now, even longer than usual. What was he doing? Viktor glanced up quietly. He was curious, but not enough to go ask. The amount of time and care Jayce put into his appearance didn't surprise Viktor, but it still irritated him, especially when Jayce was already late getting somewhere. The face had to match the ego, he supposed. Three seconds before the thought popped into his head again. Why... had Jayce looked at him like that? Viktor was annoyed at himself for thinking about that again. He wasn't even sure he'd actually seen that look. It had been gone so quickly. Barely even a flash. And even if he had seen it... it annoyed him. Had Jayce really been convinced that Viktor was jealous of Mel?? Or that he should've been? It wasn't like Jayce ever even looked at him or spoke to him like that. He didn't think he'd want him to either. It felt so non-genuine. So unlike him. Viktor's fingers traced over the pages of the book. It was a book that seemed well-read. One of Jayce's that had been salvaged from the old apartment. There were quite a few tabs in it, but whenever Viktor opened the book to one of them, pages were ripped out. He could still see the pieces of them left in the spine. It was a book on Runes. Viktor hadn't realized there were this many, nor had he realized there were such things as World Runes. His eyes scanned over the pages quietly. He was having difficulty understanding the words. They weren't nearly as difficult as the names of diseases that he would study, but they just... confused him. It did seem that the Binding Rune was one of the missing pages, if that Rune was even listed in here at all. He tipped his head. Jayce seemed to have quite a fascination with one of the World Runes. Sorcery. Viktor slid his finger over the dulled illustration. He paused as the door to the bathroom opened and he sat up. Jayce had emerged from it, but he was... Viktor furrowed his brow. He didn't recognize these clothes. The fabric seemed of a lower quality. A simple white shirt strung up around the neckline and brown pants. Jayce moved over to the door, pulling down his cloak. "Jayce??" "I'll be back." Jayce's words were curt and Viktor half expected to be yanked off the bed as the other opened the door and slipped outside. However, the chain never tightened. Wait. Wait, had he really...?? Viktor's eyes were wide as he slipped off the bed and materialized his cane, making his way over to the bathroom. He looked inside, taken back as he saw the bracelet with the Rune still on the counter. What?? Viktor was stunned silent for a moment. He turned and moved forward, fazing through the wall and standing in the hallway as far as the chain would allow. He called out for Jayce, but it seemed like the other had left in a hurry. Where was he going?? Viktor thought Jayce never took off his bracelet. Good gods, he'd even yelled at him about it before. Viktor didn't know what to do for a moment. He was slightly panicked and he wasn't sure why. After another few moments of staring down the hallway, he finally backed up and turned, fazing his way through the wall and back into their apartment. He paced a little around the center, his brow furrowed. For the first time in a while, Viktor was alone again. He held up his wrist, looking the chain over. He'd never been far from Jayce's side because of it. He wasn't quite sure what to do now. He was still chained. It wasn't like he was free, he was just alone now. He lowered his arm and stared around the room, giving a small sigh through his nose. He glanced over at the book he'd left on his bed. He was finished with it for now. His eyes moved back to the bathroom door and he tipped his head before moving forward. This wasn't a room he entered often, mostly because he didn't need anything it had to offer him. The light had been turned off, but the Rune was letting off the slightest glow. Viktor felt himself become a little more solid as he entered the darker part of the room. The light from the door reflected off of something and it caught his eye. Something was underneath the face towels in the basket on the counter. Viktor tipped his head before reaching out. He was able to move the towels away, but they fell to the floor as he dropped them in shock, his body completely freezing up. There was a journal beneath the towels. It was worn, held shut by a gunmetal grey buckle. The spine was frayed and it was peeling. Viktor... recognized it. That was his journal. More specifically, his journal that he'd filled with his notes for anatomy. And he hadn't had other people to study, he'd used himself. His whole body was sketched out in those pages. The physical deformities that came with his knee. Every mole on his body. Even the longer hair he'd sported when he'd first joined the Academy. Viktor blinked as something suddenly seemed to rise up in the corners of his eyes. He glanced over at the mirror. His cheeks were curling away into spirals of mist. He hesitated before raising his fingers to them in confusion. He glanced back down. Where had Jayce gotten that?? Had Heimerdinger given it to him?? Heimerdinger had actually kept his things?? Viktor couldn't believe it. That was... embarrassing. He backed up out of the bathroom, still seeing the mist spiraling in the corners of his eyes. Why that journal?? Why not journal he kept notes on diseases in? Well, actually, he couldn't imagine why Jayce would need either of them. He glanced back at the door. Was that why Jayce always took so long? Was he reading while he got ready? Viktor slowly lowered himself to the floor, placing the cane down before burying his face in his hands. That meant Jayce just... knew what he looked like?? Gods... Viktor lowered one of his hands, but kept his face buried in the other. He glanced up at the door again. Where was Jayce going that he didn't want Viktor to follow?? That had to be the only reason he would leave the Rune behind. He usually took Viktor everywhere with him, even if Viktor didn't really have a choice. He furrowed his brow. Jayce was up to something. It was certainly bold of Jayce to be sneaking around when Viktor possessed him so often. While he didn't usually meddle with his thoughts, he would take a peek every so often. The thoughts were always jumbled and messy. He could barely pick them apart from one another and each of them could be variations of the same thought, just in different tones. Most of the time, it was about his research. Some of the time, it was about Viktor. Usually curiosity in his form. Theories about the... magic... that made him up. Even some good questions. Were there others like him? Surely there had to be. He couldn't be the only one. And why him?? Why would someone who'd willingly ended their life be given a second one? They were all good questions, with Jayce's theories often following close behind. Of course, he had discovered that he was right about the reason Jayce liked possession so much. And it was exactly what he'd thought it was. The most he could do was humor him though, since behind that first reason, Jayce did genuinely take note of the results the experiments would produce. They did it so much that it felt like second nature to Viktor. He reached out and pulled his cane into his lap. Three anxious taps against the floor. Why was he anxious?? Was he... worried for Jayce?? No. That couldn't have been it. He didn't even know where Jayce was going. Was that what bothered him? Why would it? Jayce was his own man. One that could actually detach himself from the chain as well. The alive one. Maybe Viktor was just... freaked out about being alone again. To be fair, he hadn't been alone since he'd met Jayce. They never went anywhere without each other. Again... against Viktor's will, but still. Three taps again. Jayce didn't have any classes the next day, which made sense as to why he would choose to go out for the night today. But why?? Jayce didn't talk to anyone else. Viktor wasn't even sure he had friends. With how popular he seemed with the other students at the Academy, it was... surprising. But Viktor wasn't sure Jayce would be able to keep any friends with how he acted. Unless he faked it the whole way through. And if Viktor knew one thing, Jayce didn't have the patience for that. Once they'd gotten back from the Academy earlier, Viktor had gone to read and Jayce hadn't even bothered him. Which was rare. Unheard of, even. Jayce pestered him constantly and the only peace Viktor usually got was when Jayce was resting. And even then, his chainsaw snores... Viktor rolled his eyes. Gods, he wished he was unchained from this thing. How hadn't Jayce figured it out yet?? Maybe he was just putting all his focus on his Hextech research. Viktor's gaze drifted back to the Rune. There was only one time Jayce had gotten angry with him after a possession. And it had regarded the Rune. Viktor had taken partial control, but had started to sift through Jayce's memories out of curiosity. The question had entered his mind and Jayce's memories had moved to respond before he could stop them. Jayce had discovered the Rune in the snow during the blizzard that had made him afraid of such weather. He'd held it close to him as he huddled next to the body of his mother and an Enforcer patrol had found him the next day on the outskirts of Piltover. He didn't know how he'd gotten there. Curled up and feverish, but alive. However, he seemed like he'd been transported without his mother's body. The Enforcer that found him was named Grayson and she'd taken him to the Kiramman's. That was how Viktor had learned Jayce was orphaned and Jayce had been furious at him for days. Of course, Jayce had come back to ask for another possession experiment, but Viktor had learned never to bring up what he'd seen again. And that seemed to be good enough for Jayce. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three hours of silence. Viktor only stared forward, having slipped into a fugue state on the floor. It was well into nighttime and the lanterns around the room had dimmed. Viktor was pulled back to reality once he'd felt his form slightly solidify again. He glanced up. Jayce's bed was still empty. The room was still silent. No lump in the sheets. No hideous snoring. Viktor placed his elbow against his knee before resting his head against his hand. He glanced down at himself quietly. The time of death had been 11:32 PM. No matter what he changed his appearance to, it would always revert at that time. He reached up and slid his hands through his hair, carefully pulling outwards. Finally, he moved his hands away before blinking and blowing one of the long strands out of his face. He summoned a hair tie to his wrist before reaching back. He started to pull his hair back quietly. This was how he'd worn it before to keep it out of his face. It must've been his second year at the Academy when he'd decided to cut it. He tied off the ponytail with the hair tie before glancing down at himself. He slid his hand down the front of his vest, changing it to a simpler black one. He tipped his head before dark green detailing started to climb up the sides. He remembered this vest fondly. He still didn't know what happened to it. Who had cleaned the apartment of his things? He couldn't remember. After seeing the journal, it was clear to him that Heimerdinger had obviously come to collect some of his things. He doubt he had it though. He reached up, pulling off his white tie before holding it up. He released it and watched as it started to drift down. The tie began to dissipate into mist before disappearing with a puff as it hit the floor. Viktor studied his dark red shirt. He didn't feel the need to change that, pleased with how it looked. He finally used his cane to push himself back to his feet. Some of his loose bangs fell in his face and he blew them away, starting to remember why he'd cut his hair in the first place. He moved back over to the bed before slipping into it again. He pushed the book to the side and leaned back against the wall with a small sigh. This was one of the things he'd do to entertain himself when he'd been alone. Mess around with his appearance. Everything from his clothes to his hair to his face. He felt like he'd definitely given himself freckles once. He crinkled his nose in distaste at the memory. He stared across the room quietly. He could feel himself slipping back into that fugue state. He continued to stare forward, his eyes half-open. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three hours of silence. Three hours of silence. Viktor finally blinked again, lifting his head. The bed across from him was still empty. The moonlight from the window was much farther than it had been. Viktor sighed through his nose again, leaning forward. He rested his head against his hand once more before pausing as he heard the jingling of keys outside the door. Jayce was back?? He sat up a little straighter. Where the hell had he been?? Viktor's eyes moved over to the door as it opened. The lantern nearest to the door brightened up in response. Viktor paused. Jayce was carrying a large box under his arm and his clothes were dirtied. He shut the door behind him before his eyes fell on Viktor. He'd come in with a frustrated and vaguely annoyed expression, but that all melted away when he saw Viktor. After staring at him blankly, his eyes finally lit up with curiosity. "You can change your physical body too?? I thought it was just your clothes!" Jayce exclaimed, hanging the cloak up and setting the box on the kitchen area counter. He instantly came over, leaning against Viktor's bed as he scanned him over. He reached out and Viktor slightly scrunched himself up as Jayce managed to slightly move a piece of his wavy hair by passing a finger through it. "Did you just feel like having long hair? Viktor replied that this had been his hairstyle when he'd first entered the Academy. But Jayce would've known that. "Why did you cut it??" Viktor paused, saying that it had often got in his way while he was trying to work on experiments. That question itched in his throat and he couldn't hold it back."Jayce, where did you go?" He finally asked. Jayce paused before scoffing and say that he didn't need to tell Viktor every little place he went. "Of course you never need to. I am often dragged along with you." Viktor looked him over. "You left the bracelet here. Did you not yell at me once that you could never take it off??" He was slightly annoyed by that and Jayce replied that he couldn't have Viktor follow him. "Why? You are not normally secretive." Jayce sighed and pulled back, waving his hand dismissively as he reminded Viktor that it was really none of his business. And he was right, but that didn't make Viktor any less irritated by it. "We also, uh, won't be conducting any possession experiments for a bit." Really? Viktor raised a brow at him in doubt and Jayce seemed to notice, narrowing his eyes at the perceived challenge. "...What?" "It is always you who has begged me to possess you. Are you sure you could handle such a declaration?" Viktor asked flatly. Jayce's ears went pink and he instantly replied in a firm tone that it wasn't always him. "It is. Every time. Always you. I never ask to possess you, nor do I think I would." Viktor leaned back against the wall. "I do not... get something out of it like you do." Jayce turned away, saying that he was done talking about this. "If you say so." Viktor heavily doubted that Jayce was going to put a pause on those experiments. He'd seen into his mind. Jayce liked it too much. Way too much. He glanced over at the box that Jayce had brought. What was that? Where had he gone? Viktor jumped as Jayce spoke again, reminding him to mind his business. He could see him watching the box. "I know that look. Don't touch it." Jayce's voice was firm as he sat back on the bed across from Viktor. Viktor made a small hum of acknowledgment, pulling his knee up to his chest. ...Jayce was going to have to sleep eventually.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It took three seconds for the thought to hit Viktor's mind. It was so strong that he'd frozen up. Gods. Gods, was he serious?? Good gods. Was he stupid? Viktor tore his eyes away from the lump in the bed across from him. No, no, really. Why hadn't he thought of that?? Good gods, how had he even made it into the Academy if he'd forgotten something as blatantly simple and obvious as this?? He slipped out of his own bed, settling on the floor as he materialized his cane. He turned, his gaze momentarily landing on the box. He gave it a small glare before turning and making his way back to the bathroom. The moment he stepped into the darkened room again, he felt himself solidify a little more. He reached out to the bracelet immediately before carefully scooping it up. The moment he did so, all he could do was stare. Fuck, he was stupid. He finally put it back down and turned, dematerializing his cane solely for the purpose of being able to put his elbows on the sink counter so he could bury his head in his hands. He was such an idiot. He lifted his head, only able to stare at himself in disappointment through the mirror. Finally, he rematerialized his cane and straightened up. He reached out, soon scooping up the bracelet. As long as it was still nighttime, he could just... He shortened the chain as much as he could before turning and making his way out of the room. He cast another glare at the box on the counter. Viktor had obviously tried to touch it the moment Jayce had fallen asleep, only to find it was covered in Runes. Runes that prevented him from even fazing his hands through it. He scoffed, moving past Jayce towards the window. He reached out, pulling the top of it down just enough. He reached up and slipped the bracelet through, watching it fall. He turned to look back at Jayce before he closed his eyes and allowing the chain to yank him backwards through the wall. Didn't that feel familiar? Three seconds before he hit the-But he didn't hit the ground. This time, he landed on his feet. This time was different. Viktor stared up the few floors he'd just come down from. He turned away, searching the snow for the Rune. He knelt down, scooping the bracelet up in one hand before turning and starting through the streets. Why hadn't he thought of this sooner?? Good gods, hadn't he been top of his class at one point?? Maybe Jayce was too much of a bad influence. Viktor rolled his eyes. The snow-covered streets were quiet at night and he glanced up at the moon again. It was so... peaceful. This was... peaceful. Now he didn't mind being alone again. Viktor continued to walk through the streets, his cane digging into the snow. Despite this, he left behind no marks. No holes. No footprints. He paused, wondering if he should actually put in the effort to form a cloak on himself. He... did suppose he was visible enough. Slowly, but surely, a red and gold cloak started to form on his body, covering his arms. The hood was bunched up around his neck like a scarf. He was sure that if he were able to feel the outside temperature, this cloak would've been warm. It had been so long since he'd just been able to take walks like this. The bracelet was hidden beneath his cloak now. Viktor meandered down the streets, glancing up at the sky. He would only be able to continue holding it as long as it was dark. Once day came, he'd have to find somewhere to hide it so he could stay nearby. Viktor finally came to a stop. He paused, coming back to reality. Where was he? He blinked before his gaze trailed upwards. Ah. Right... Right back to the start. Drawn like a moth to a flame. He stared up at the ruined apartment above, the hole having been covered by wood. There was still nothing left of his balcony. Viktor's eyes fell to the ground. No hint of the grass they'd planted over his impact point. He might've even been standing on it. Viktor's hand tightened on his cane and he could only stare for a few moments. He... couldn't stay here anymore. This would obviously be the first place Jayce would come to look for him.It took everything he had in him to take that first step back. Three seconds of hesitation. Another step. Three seconds to compose himself. Three seconds to... finally look away. Viktor turned and started down the street again, though his hand remained shaky on the top of his cane. If he couldn't stay where he'd ended... maybe he could go back to where he'd began. The thought made him shiver and close his eyes. He had no reason to be afraid. Nothing there could hurt him anymore. Not like this. Viktor's path slowly changed direction. Somehow, his chest was growing heavy and it was spreading to the rest of his body until he finally, finally came to a stop. He managed to lift his eyes, fixing them on the bridge in front of him. The Bridge of Progress, was it? How... amusing. The last time Viktor had been over here, people had been fighting. Screaming. The bridge had been in chaos. Flames. Someone from Zaun had thrown the first molotov. Someone from Zaun had set a nightmare in motion here. He could see the snow soon disappear the further down into the caves it went. In Zaun, the sun did not reach as far. Perhaps Viktor would be able to move around during the day. He had an itching urge to look back at Piltover, but he wouldn't. Even the aching that usually resided in his skull had dulled for the moment. Three seconds to reconsider. Three seconds to think. Three seconds to fail. Viktor took his first few steps forward, entering the bridge and dematerializing his cane. He reached out, tracing his hand along the stone railing to support himself as he moved. He swore he could still feel the heat that had consumed this bridge before. And once he touched down on the other side, the feeling vanished. Viktor didn't look back. He couldn't. He summoned his cane again, moving forward and settling on dry ground as he stepped out of the snow. Three seconds to finally reenter Zaun. As the path dipped downwards, Viktor could only think. Why had he panicked so hard before about Jayce leaving him alone earlier? This was... relieving. Refreshing. He felt like he could breathe, even if he hadn't actually needed to for a while now. He scanned over the quiet houses and closed shops. He wasn't sure how much in Zaun had changed. There was... one place he used to visit often in Zaun before his fall. He tipped his head, his cane tapping against the ground once he'd remembered the path. He moved through winding, quiet streets before emerging at that corner. There. The building looked... darker. Different. Dirtier. Viktor hesitated before moving forward. He stood at the steps before raising his head. The sign above him was eerily still. The door in front of him had been boarded up. Had... they gone out of business?
The Last Drop
Viktor knelt down, slipping the bracelet under the barred door before fazing through it. When he picked up the bracelet again, he started to look around. It was empty. And it looked like it had been for... a long time. It brought a slight ache to his chest. He'd quite enjoyed this place, even if he would really just come here to read and have a drink. The bartender had been kind and he'd always been laughing. The same man and the same woman were constantly with him, sometimes one without the other or both at the same time. They all seemed close. Viktor remembered that the bartender would often come to check on him and Viktor wondered if it was because he was worried about his leg or because he'd seen his Academy Uniform when his cloak had slipped one time. Had the other thought he was a Piltover citizen? Viktor could only wonder what he'd seemed like. Viktor moved over to the booth he would always choose, settling down and placing the bracelet on the dusty table. The bar remained empty. It was completely dark in here, but Viktor could see perfectly. There were still old stacks of cards on some of the tables, still waiting to be played. How much had he... missed...? Three seconds before it came creeping back. Jayce would absolutely notice he'd disappeared the moment he woke, but Viktor was sure the other wouldn't care until he noticed his Rune was gone too. Viktor did feel slightly bad about taking the one thing Jayce had kept with him since he'd been a child, but at the same time... This man had essentially trapped him against his will. Borderline kidnapped him even, since he had taken Viktor from his resting place and kept him away. Jayce would be furious, Viktor knew that much. His eyes landed on the Rune before they followed the chain. Once it landed on his wrist again, he lifted it, sighing as he shook his arm around and heard the chain rattle. He really was stupid, wasn't he?? He could pick the damn thing up in the dark. How had he forgotten that?? Had Jayce forgotten that too or had he just trusted that Viktor wouldn't?? Viktor scoffed to himself. His eyes continued to scan over his wrist and he furrowed his brow after a moment. He felt like there was something wrong with his skin. He hesitated before unbuttoning the sleeve and pulling it down. His eyes widened a little. Veiny bright blue lines were slightly spread from where the chain connected to his skin. He didn't know. Had those... Had those been there before?? He hesitated before lifting his other hand. He lightly pressed on the veins before flinching as a sharp noise left him. It stunned him silent and he could only stare for a moment. Pain? He felt...? He had felt pain?? He pressed again to make sure before flinching, curling his hand up and slamming his fist against the table. It was pain! Why would...? How...? He rolled his sleeve back down with shaking fingers, buttoning it back up. Viktor didn't think he was going to be messing with that again anytime soon. He laid his head in his arms, sliding his eyes shut. He had no doubt that Jayce would try to come find him. Likely to get the Rune back. But maybe Viktor could figure out how to break the Bind on his own since Jayce had apparently been incapable. He slid his fingers over the leather of the bracelet before one of them bumped against the crystal itself. The shockwave that went through Viktor's body nearly blinded him and he slammed himself backwards, his eyes wide. So... touching the crystal directly didn't seem to be a good idea. He wouldn't know any of these things since Jayce had never let him really study it. Mostly because Jayce had never really taken it off. Viktor composed himself, scooting a little bit away from the crystal before hesitantly laying his head back in his arms. Despite how bright the chain was, it cast no surrounding light like the Rune did. Viktor always found this curious. Viktor's eyes scanned over the abandoned bar again. The ache had spread through his whole body and he furrowed his brow before reaching up and pressing the back of his head in. The skull broke open and he made a small, satisfied noise. Well, it... it certainly hadn't relieved as much of the ache as he'd wanted, but it was enough. He paused as he felt something wet running down his face and he rolled his eyes as the blood from his nose soaked into his sleeve. Whenever he'd come here, it had felt comfortable. A safe space. The only spot in Zaun that made him even slightly regret leaving to sneak into the Academy. His eyes drifted back over to the bar. The woman that often came to see the bartender had spoken to him a few times. They all seemed to be miners. Viktor had had some discussions with her about how he hadn't been able to mine due to his leg. He was sure she was the only one of the three who had seemed to fully understand he was a Zaunite like them.That man that had always been with the bartender had never spoken to him, but he would always watch when the other two did. The most Viktor had exchanged with him was a cordial nod. He... had never learned any of their names. He wasn't sure how long it had been, but he hoped they were all doing well, wherever they were. Three seconds of an empty, peaceful mind. Viktor sighed through his nose as Jayce popped up in his head again. He would be fine without him, wouldn't he? Now that he didn't need to focus on the Bind, he could focus on his Hextech dream. Maybe it was just the residuals left from being the Dean's assistant, but seeing a student so passionate and excited about their work was still... nice. No matter how he felt about the student personally, that was. He knew Jayce would be angry for a long time. It hadn't stopped his decision to leave in the slightest, but he knew Jayce would be hurt. Despite it being against his will... Viktor would dare say it had still been a fun time. It was the most excitement he'd had in a while, but he felt like he'd run out of energy for it. It really was going to kill him again, not knowing what was in the box that Jayce had brought back from wherever he'd gone. Why had it had Runes?? Why couldn't Viktor get inside of it? He could get through anything. He was dead, after all. Physical limitations didn't apply anymore. He scoffed in slight irritation. The Rune kept giving small flickers, drawing Viktor's eyes back to it. He... really wanted to know how long it had been. Based on Skye's appearance at the Academy, it had at least been a decade. It was likely he'd died before Jayce had even been born. He rolled his eyes. While he wouldn't have called them 'friends', it still meant Jayce had spent all of his time with essentially someone who was likely double his age or more. Maybe Jayce could go out and find some real friends his age... Viktor couldn't help the doubt that immediately filled his chest. Jayce was definitely not going to do that. Once that man revealed any of his jumbled personalities... Once he let that mask of his slip... They would leave him. And Jayce wouldn't even care. Viktor rolled his eyes. Once he found a way to break the Bind, he'd return the Rune to Jayce and they could wash their hands of each other. He was sure Jayce wouldn't mind that and neither would he. Three seconds before... Viktor sighed through his nose. Why had Jayce... treated him like that? For three days, he'd been silent and comforting. For the three days after Viktor had woken up in absolute tears from the joy and relief at being able to sleep again... Why had Jayce done that? Was it some kind of fear response? Had he not known how to react otherwise? Viktor could still feel his hand rubbing his shoulder. Viktor stared blankly across the empty bar, his eyes focusing on the smallest beams of light that shone up from the Rune. Viktor just needed to take a break for a little bit. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds to calm his mind. Three seconds before he started slipping back into his fugue state. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three hours of silence. Three...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Three days of silence.
The time of death was 11:32 PM.
Viktor inhaled quietly and the first thing he registered after coming back to his senses was the smell of smoke. Not fire, but... cigarettes? "Hey, bookworm." That caught Viktor's attention pretty quickly. The nickname was... familiar? He glanced up at the woman sitting across from him in the booth now. A larger, much more muscled woman. "You made me waste a lot of my stock watching over you." Viktor wasn't sure what that meant, looking her over. Her eyes had a faint, purple sheen to the irises. He paused as he heard clicking. His eyes moved down to her shoulder, surprised to see the arm became fully mechanical below it. He blinked, jumping a little as a vial of bright purple liquid popped out of the shoulder before slamming back down and the woman inhaled shakily. Purple veins spread across her body and her eyes lit back up. She reached up, taking the cigarette out of her mouth with clawed, metal fingers. She blew out some smoke. She scanned him over and Viktor's eyes soon wandered away. The lanterns along the walls were on. The bar still seemed deserted, but he could at least tell people were in here now. However, they all seemed to be up the stairs. "I didn't think I'd ever see your face around here again." Viktor's attention moved back to the woman as she spoke again and he furrowed his brow. Did he know her? He didn't think so. She seemed to take note of his confusion. Finally, she leaned forward, gesturing towards another point in the room. "That table." Viktor followed her gesture towards one of the card tables. "I had a bad night. Lost my temper and threw my glass." Viktor paused and the woman stopped talking, watching him. No. No, he did remember that. He wasn't even sure what had happened. One moment he'd been reading and the next, something had shattered against the wall above him. He'd cut his fingers and his uniform had smelled faintly of liquor for two days after. The bartender had kicked out the offending party and brought Viktor a towel while the man with him had brought him bandages for his fingers. That was the only time they'd interacted. Their cordial nod. "That was you? My clothes were ruined for two days because of that." Viktor finally spoke, turning to her. The woman seemed fascinated by this. She chuckled in quiet disbelief as she leaned back, taking another drag on her cigarette. Right... everyone in this bar had referred to him as 'bookworm'. It had been so long that he'd forgotten. It brought a pang to his chest. "Yeah, that was me. Sorry about that." The woman replied. She didn't sound sorry. She looked him over as she held the cigarette between her fingers. "...you haven't changed a bit. That's a hell of a beauty routine you must have. Scared the hell out of my boss when we found you." She gestured towards the wall and Viktor glanced over before pausing as he saw the knife embedded in the wood. It would've gone straight through his head. "Only we can see you too. Unless the other guys get dosed up." Dosed up? He shook his head and murmured that it was much simpler than she thought. That it wasn't some fancy sorcery or trick. "Not a sorcerer?" He shook his head. "How about a shapeshifter?" He scoffed at her, rolling his eyes. "It does not need to be some big mystery. I died shortly after I spent time here. You do not have to attempt any guessing games." Viktor leaned against the table as well. His appearance had long since reverted. The woman stared at him quietly. "I would rather not show off my proof. It would make a mess." Viktor added, resting his head against his hand. The woman took another drag on her cigarette, those glowing purple eyes scanning him over as she calmly replied that she didn't believe in any of that stuff. Good gods. Was everyone around him stubborn? Viktor rolled his eyes. "You do not need to believe. I am not some kind of myth." He straightened up and gestured to his neck. "Here." Once she was looking, Viktor reached up before ever so slightly shoving his fingers against it. The woman flinched, dropping her cigarette as the snap echoed through the empty room. Viktor's head awkwardly tipped to the side and he heard her stomp out the cigarette under the table. He reached up, holding the sides of his head before lifting it and placing it back on his neck. "I would appreciate... if I did not have to do that again." Viktor stated, resting his elbows back against the table. The woman was clearly disturbed by this, but she seemed like she was very much paying attention now. "I see you trying to make excuses. This is no illusion, nor fakery." "...Did yourself in, huh?" The woman's question was beautifully blunt and Viktor couldn't help the quiet scoff of amusement that left him. He mumbled that he was glad to see subtlety was such an honorable trait of hers. "That isn't my style." She sighed and got up. "You coming?" Viktor paused. He glanced down. The Rune had been pulled off the table to lay on the seat next to it. He wouldn't be able to pick it up right now. "I need the lights off. Otherwise I am unable to move around." Viktor replied, glancing up again and meeting her eyes. The woman asked if he was serious and Viktor gave her a flat look. She rolled her eyes and moved forward, disappearing out of view. The lanterns all shut off at once and there was only the light coming from up the stairs. He could feel himself become just a little more solid and he reached down, scooping up the bracelet. He pushed himself up from the table, materializing his cane in his hand. This seemed to make the woman's brows shoot up in surprise. He was able to see the purple glow her eyes and arm casted. "May I ask why I am following you?" "I'm taking you to the boss. He said he wanted to talk to you if you ever snapped out of... whatever you were doing." The woman replied. Viktor leaned on his cane, asking what they would do if he didn't follow. The woman paused and glanced back at him. "You got anywhere else to be, dead man?" She asked, her voice filled to the absolute brim with doubt. Viktor sighed before saying he supposed not."I am willing to leave if this was trespassing. I was not aware this place was... still in business." He said, glancing around. The woman snorted as she led him up the stairs, saying it certainly wasn't. He followed her carefully before pausing right where the darkness started to become lighter. He could hear people talking down the hall and the woman stopped, glancing back at him. She stated that none of them were dosed up right now, so they couldn't see him. That they wouldn't bother him. "Lights." Viktor reminded her, remaining in the dark portion of the hallway. He could already feel the bracelet threatening to slip right through his fingers. The woman sighed before moving away. The lights suddenly went out and there was a bunch of exclamations that quickly quieted once the woman was heard snapping for them to shut it. Viktor carefully moved around the corner. He limped after her, his cane giving quiet taps. He could see a bunch of people sitting outside a door. They... He wasn't one to be judgmental, especially after being trapped with someone like Jayce for a year, but these... looked like dangerous people. Viktor furrowed his brow. The woman knocked loudly before opening the door. "He's up. Can't have the lights on. He can't move around with 'em on, he says." After a moment, he saw her move and the lights in the room went out, though he could still see traces of daylight. There must've been some kind of window. Viktor paused, noticing everyone's eyes on him. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds of waiting. The woman turned to him and nodded him towards the door. Viktor moved forward, slipping into the room. He heard the woman come in behind him before the door shut. It was an office of some kind with one large, opaque window illuminating the space. Viktor tipped his head, watching as smoke blew out from where the back of the chair was facing him. "It's been a long while, bookworm." He didn't recognize the voice that drifted out from behind it. The man got up from the chair and Viktor soon realized why. This was the man he'd never spoken to. The one that had always been up at the bar. Of course, he was much older and... Viktor blinked. Half of the man's face was horrifically scarred, with a blackened eye and missing eyelid. His iris gave off a sickly glow. He was holding a cigar. The man scanned him over quietly. "I must admit, I wasn't expecting to find you here." "I suspected as much, considering the knife that had been in the wall next to my head." Viktor commented lightly. The man paused and a quiet chuckle left him. "Ah, you have an accent. That's why Felicia said you had a nice voice. She was always partial to them." The man mused quietly. Felicia? Was that the woman that always spoke to him before? Viktor had never known anyone's name, just as no one had ever asked his. The man seemed to take note of his Academy uniform as he took another puff of his cigar. "You seem far from your element." Viktor paused. "As you may suspect, I have questions. Your appearance. Your... qualities. The fact that we can only see you when we take Shimmer." Shimmer. That must've been the liquid the woman's arm had injected into her. Viktor replied that his answer was simple, but no one had ever just taken his word for it. "She didn't believe me either and I rather dislike having to prove it all the time." Viktor gestured to the woman standing by the door. "However, it seems you may be no stranger to... serious injury." The man paused before replying that he wasn't. "My name is Viktor. I would like introductions before I continue." The man seemed amused, saying Viktor was quite bold to be requesting things right then. That he admired his confidence. This man believed himself to be someone dangerous. To the living, Viktor was sure he was. Not to him. Three seconds of silence. "My name is Silco. You met Sevika already." The man gestured behind him to the woman. "It is a pleasure to finally speak to you, Silco." Viktor leaned on his cane. "I died some time ago. I'm unsure if anyone took note of my absence, but it occurred shortly after I started coming here." Silco paused. He finally spoke, saying Felicia and Vander had certainly noticed his absence. That they'd even considered going up to Piltover to ask about him. Vander. Was that the bartender? Silco's voice had somewhat strained on the name. Something had happened. With the way he was watching him, Viktor could tell what he wanted. He reached up, placing his hand on the side of his head. He went blind in his left eye as the side of his head caved in under the minimal pressure with an absolutely horrific crunch. Something started running down his face from his nose and chin. Silco had fallen absolutely silent. He reached down, putting out his cigar in the ashtray on his desk. He moved around the side of the desk, approaching Viktor in what seemed to be fascination. However, there was also a forlorn look in his eyes. "Fel would've been devastated to see what had became of you." He said softly. Viktor glanced up at him. "It feels cruel, really." Viktor replied calmly. He tipped his head. "A second life I did not ask for. When I couldn't even handle the first one. And what became of my... kindness. It has caused me more trouble than it was worth. Binded me to an individual sick in the head. A man with such an ego that it could fill a whole room, should it manifest. I have just freed myself from him." Viktor sighed, looking down at the Rune that he was visibly chained to. "Yet he haunts me still." He glanced up after a moment. "He will come to find me. I cannot stay here for too long." Silco seemed fascinated by the Rune. "I see that look." That was a phrase he'd taken from Jayce. "He wore it often when he was considering being troublesome for me. I would quite appreciate if you did not prove the same." Silco's eyes lifted to meet his and he chuckled. "You... truly are something, Viktor. You're bold. No one but Sevika dares to speak to me like this." Viktor raised a brow. Like what? Normal? "You don't even realize it either." The man only seemed more amused by this. "I could shelter you from this man." Shelter him? From Jayce, of all people? With his Hextech and his unhinged ideas, it didn't matter how powerful Silco was. What Jayce would do was unknown and unpredictable. A loose cannon was always worse. Silco seemed to take note of his expression. "...This person must be dangerous." "Unpredictable. Worrisome." Viktor replied. "You are offering shelter, but I assume this means you expect something of me in return and expecting something from someone who is dead is quite... interesting." It was the nicest word he could use to replace idiotic. Silco was clearly not a scientist. He wouldn't need Viktor for research like Jayce did. Silco chuckled again. Viktor was so glad that he seemed so entertained by this. He rolled his eye and started to turn away. "Wait a moment, Viktor. We have a doctor that occasionally works with us. I would like you to meet him. He also studies Runes in some regard. I see you are chained. Perhaps he can help." Silco stated. That... did catch Viktor's interest. To finally break the Bind. It was all he wanted at this point. Once he broke it, he could be free of Jayce. The thought... brought a sense of uncomfortableness and he wasn't sure why. It may have just been the realization he would be leaving behind something familiar. Viktor scanned Silco over quietly."If this doctor is unable to help me, I will be leaving." He stated. The bluntness of his statement seemed to make Silco laugh again. He looked him over again, musing that he could see why Felicia had liked him. "Of course you would, Viktor. I'd expect nothing less."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Due to Viktor's state, they would only be able to travel in the darkness. They'd agreed it would just be easier to travel at night and there started another waiting game. Viktor had retreated back downstairs to the bar. Though, instead of returning to his booth, he chose to sit at the bar itself. His head had long since reverted from its damaged state. He set the Rune down, sliding onto one of the stools. The wood countertop was well-worn. Textured. Dusty. He slid his fingers over it quietly, giving a small sigh. The lights were still off in this area. All of Silco's men had been ordered to leave him be, which relieved him considering how many of them had seemed so interested in him. He hadn't liked the way some of them had looked at him. He wasn't sure he would do well with more problems. He startled as the Rune gave a small pulse. He watched quietly as the symbol itself formed above the crystal, giving small pulses. He wasn't sure what it was doing and he could only watch in quiet confusion. He'd dematerialized his cane for now. Viktor paused as the lanterns all came back to life and he felt his form become light once more. He glanced back as Silco turned to him from the knob. He seemed to be the only one who'd come downstairs. Viktor didn't even see Sevika with him. "Funny that you chose my stool." He commented quietly, moving over. Viktor raised a brow. He replied that he would've moved, but he couldn't exactly do that now. "I'm not overly attached to that spot." Silco said assuringly, slipping into the stool next to him. He looked him over. He seemed calmer now. Less strict and professional. "Seeing you sitting in that booth again like old times had been quite frightening." Silco said, his hands resting on the counter. "Startled memories from me. I was sure I had hallucinated you until Sevika said she saw you too." Viktor glanced back at the knife still embedded in the wall before replying that he'd noticed. After a moment, Viktor opened his mouth, but he withdrew what he wanted to say, feeling as it may have been something sensitive. Silco seemed to notice before giving a quiet sigh. "...You want to know what's become of Vander and Felicia?" "They were kind to me. Vander even noticed my Academy uniform when my cloak slipped. Yet he said nothing. He did not treat me different." Viktor recalled quietly. Silco seemed to have a pained look in his eyes as he listened, his gaze drifting to the floor. "Felicia willingly held conversations with me, which was much more than I could say for anyone at the Academy." He glanced over. "You never spoke to me, but I do recall it was you who brought me the bandages when I cut my fingers on glass." "You were bleeding a startling amount." Silco commented, raising a brow as he glanced over at him. Viktor nodded, replying that he'd had thin blood. Silco sighed before leaning forward and resting his elbows against the counter. "Felicia suspected you were Zaun-born. Was she correct?" He asked. Viktor nodded, saying she'd been quite intuitive. "And yet you wear an Academy uniform?" Viktor glanced over, saying his parents had stolen one for him. When he'd been caught, he had already impressed the Dean enough to be enrolled. Silco made a small, impressed noise. "Felicia, Vander and myself all dreamed of a way to free Zaun from Piltover. Vander and I had... opposing methods. Felicia was one of the casualties in the crossfire." His voice quieted. Viktor's shoulders sank. "I have her daughter." Viktor paused and glanced over at him, asking if she'd had children. Silco nodded, saying it was a little girl named Powder. "She looks so much like her." He lamented quietly. Viktor's eyes fell to the counter. So Silco was the only one left alive of the three? Silco hadn't mentioned what happened to Vander, but Viktor felt he could make the assumption. Viktor had... missed a lot. He paused as the Rune pulsed again, the symbol reappearing over the crystal. He stared at it quietly. Silco seemed to take note of his confusion. "...I assume that must be new." Viktor nodded, saying he hadn't seen it do that before. He reached out to the symbol hesitantly before slipping his fingers into it. Instantly, his eyes were consumed in blue and he was... he was seeing through someone else. They were at the Bridge of Progress, quickly moving towards Zaun. Viktor yanked his hand back from the symbol, his eyes wide as they cleared. "...He is tracking me." He whispered. Viktor's chest instantly filled with panic. "He is on the way. He's going to find me." He raised a hand to his head, closing his eyes. Three seconds to be consumed with fear. Three seconds to try and calm down. He jumped as he heard Silco say his name. He asked if Viktor was sure he wasn't capable of leaving now. Viktor paused before glancing at the bracelet. "...You would have to put that on. I am able to follow if you are holding it." Silco reached out to it and Viktor instinctively tensed up. Silco paused as he noticed this. He asked if Viktor really trusted him with this. "Of course not. But I fear what Jayce would do more. He told me he had contingencies. Ways to hurt me. I don't doubt he was telling the truth." Viktor slipped out of the stool, materializing his cane. "Please take me away from this place. He is at the bridge." Silco scooped up the bracelet, carefully rolling up his sleeve and slipping it around his wrist. He moved over, calling up the stairs for Sevika. He stated loudly that they were leaving and to bring him his coat. Viktor heard other voices and Silco seemed to reiterate that he needed them to clean the place up. He sounded annoyed, like he'd told them this already. Viktor soon heard footsteps and Sevika appeared, holding out a red and black coat with a fur collar to Silco. He took it, slipping it on. "Thought we were waiting until nighttime?" "The one who bound him to the Rune is coming to get him. He is tracking him through it." Silco replied. "Where the doctor is, he won't be able to follow." He gestured for both of them to move after him, opening the door and slipping out into the street. Viktor paused as a group of Enforcers moved by, Sevika having instantly covered Silco by standing in front of him. Once they'd passed, Silco started to move forward. They were barely off the street before Viktor felt a chill, hearing that voice yell out his name. Something about it made him freeze up and Silco glanced back at him. "Viktor. You can't stop now." Viktor couldn't help but look back as Jayce yelled out his name again. "VIKTOR!!" He was wearing blue-tinted glasses and it was clear to Viktor that he could see him. However, something was... Good gods. Jayce looked angry. He sounded angry as well. Furious, even. But he also just looked so... upset. He looked like he was going to cry. There were so many emotions in his eyes. Confusion, betrayal, panic. Pain. Why did he look like that?? Viktor quickly turned away, moving after Sevika and Silco as fast as he could. "Sevika." Silco spoke quietly and the woman nodded, breaking away from them and turning. Viktor glanced back, watching Jayce startle as Sevika seemed to confront him. Silco gave his chain the lightest tug, getting his attention again. "She won't let him past." Viktor nodded, though he wasn't sure how the statement would hold up. He didn't know if Jayce had brought anything with him. What he'd created in the short time Viktor had been away. Jayce was terrifyingly efficient when he wanted to be. Viktor paused as Silco quickly slipped into an alleyway, pulling him along. It seemed to dip downwards and they emerged behind the buildings to stand at the mouth of a cavern. Silco seemed to take a moment to breathe. He must've had complete confidence in Sevika. "You are putting a lot of trust in me, Viktor. You realize this, don't you?" Silco asked quietly. Viktor's hands were tight on his cane and he glanced back in the direction they'd left Jayce. "The worst you can do is keep me tethered. You cannot do anything further. I see this as preferable to the man who knows how to hurt me." Viktor replied. Silco was watching him quietly before he spoke, asking what Viktor would do if Silco figured out how to hurt him. Viktor paused, glancing over at him. "You won't." Silco seemed surprised by his firm answer. He didn't reply, leading Viktor forward into the cavern. Silco's footsteps echoed quietly. "...I am not a good person, Viktor. I may be the worst of the three that you could've met again." Silco spoke quietly as he led him. "What will you do if I decide to try and use you for my own gain?" Viktor glanced up, asking if he would. "I am known to change my views on things as I see fit." "I find it... unwise to tangle with someone who is no longer restricted by flesh." Viktor replied. Silco gave a small scoff. He continued to walk with him. "I pray you don't have ill intent planned for me." Before Silco could answer, the cavern suddenly shook as there was a distant rumble from the direction of the city. Viktor turned to look back, his brow furrowed a little. He was hoping that hadn't been Jayce. Jayce wasn't exactly... violent. While his thoughts spoke otherwise, Viktor had yet to see him act on any of them. He was not one for physical confrontation unless it had been with Viktor, who he had really just dragged around using the chain. As far as Viktor knew, Jayce wasn't built for fighting. That's why he was worried Jayce had brought some kind of Hextech device. ...He knew it sounded hypocritical. If Jayce wasn't violent, then why was he so afraid of Jayce hurting him?? Well, he... didn't think any of the methods Jayce had theorized involved actually attacking him. Three seconds of a blank mind. Three seconds before he was thinking about him again.Good gods, why had Jayce looked like that?? He'd looked distressed alongside his anger. Was it worry for Viktor or for the Rune? Was he distressed about possibly losing the one thing he'd kept since he was child? Viktor... did feel bad about that. But that was why he'd told himself he would return it as soon as the Bind was broken. Viktor just... felt bad. He paused as Silco came to a stop. He reached out and pressed his hand against the rock wall, Viktor watching as the part beneath his fingers sank it. Instantly, another part of the wall slid open, revealing a metal lift inside. Silco stepped into it, Viktor following. The door slid shut and Viktor paused as they started to descend. Three taps of his cane against the metal flooring. Once the door opened again, Viktor was taken back. The cavern the lift had brought them to was filled with large, glass tubes. He could see things inside. Creatures. Suspended. He wasn't sure if they were even dead or not. Silco called out for the doctor and Viktor paused as he heard a voice respond. No, that voice was... familiar too. He tipped his head as he followed after Silco before stopping in shock as a much older man appeared from towards the back of the cavern. He was scarred and elderly, but... Viktor recognized him. He could see the faint sheen of Shimmer in his eyes. The man was seeing him. And it seemed the man remembered him as well. "...Viktor." Viktor gave a small nod. He'd met this man when he was a child. Silco seemed surprised, asking if they knew each other. "You became a doctor, Singed?" Viktor asked. Singed nodded. He'd been in his late teens/early twenties when Viktor had met him. Viktor had found the man... off, but he would consistently help him with small projects. He would dare say Singed was the reason he'd gone into study for anatomy. Singed's good eye lowered, fixing on the chain. He seemed fascinated by this, furrowing his brow. "A Bind?? I had yet to see one in person." He murmured. Viktor paused before saying he wanted to know how to break it. "Break it? Binding Runes are quite demanding. They often require... drastic sacrifices." Singed still sounded unhealthily fascinated. His tone and words were calm, but there was something feverish beneath it. It was almost like he hadn't changed at all. Viktor gave a small sigh before asking what it needed. "You must use a piece of yourself to cut the chain. You are quite lucky your Bind is connected directly to the Rune and you weren't bound to another person." Singed added. "One of you would have to die to break it." Viktor paused before replying that that would have been quite difficult for him. He didn't think Singed was aware of his state. Not if he was seeing and hearing him clearly under the influence of the Shimmer. He wondered if his appearance would strike Singed as odd if he really considered it. It didn't seem like the other was considering that at all. A piece of himself to cut the chain? Viktor wasn't sure what that meant. He figured he could take it as literally as possible. "Silco, could I have the Rune?" Viktor asked. Silco paused, glancing over at him. Viktor had his hand held out. He really was... putting a lot of trust in this man. He watched as Silco slipped the bracelet off. It was dark enough in this cavern that Viktor would be able to hold it himself. However, Silco hesitated on handing it over. He seemed to be considering something very deeply. Viktor narrowed his eyes. He didn't want anymore problems. He just... wanted this fucking chain off of him. "Please." He spoke firmly. Silco didn't react for a moment before he finally handed it over. Viktor relaxed and he gave a quiet sigh, glancing up at him. "...Thank you." He moved over to an outcrop of rocks, placing the Rune down. It hadn't pulsed again yet. Viktor focused on lengthening the chain. Finally, he reached up, picking at an area just behind his ear and he heard Singed give a faint exclamation of shock as he started to peel the side of his head open.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor's fingers slipped under his skin, feeling the side of his neck and his shoulder become wet almost instantly. His vision blurred in his left eye, but he wouldn't let it dissuade him. He wanted this too much. He needed it. He pressed his fingers to the side of his skull and felt it break. He inhaled sharply as he hooked a piece with his nails. There was finally an utterly sickening crunch and his left eyelid went limp as he pulled a piece of jagged, bloody skull from his head. The blood was everywhere. It was staining his uniform and the rocks around him. It was running down his arm and soaking into his sleeve. He heard Singed say something before Silco's voice answered. Viktor wouldn't turn around. He didn't think he'd be of much use answering questions right then anyway. Even if he couldn't feel the pain associated with... pulling a piece of his own skull out, the side of his head was now engulfed in the same pins-and-needles static that occupied his knee. It made Viktor's limp eyelid twitch madly. He shakily reached out to the chain, though he couldn't seem to grab it, considering his sense of perception was skewed. He finally placed his hand down firmly on the rock before dragging it to the side until he hit the chain. He scooped it up before carefully holding the skull piece to it. He started to saw at it. For a moment, he didn't feel like it was doing anything. Three seconds of sawing. Three seconds of frustration. Three seconds of confusion. Three seconds before the bloody bone suddenly seemed to sink slightly into the chain and Viktor's lips parted in slight excitement. Good gods. He was vaguely aware that he was making a mess around him, but he didn't care. For a moment, a smile twitched across his lips. If Jayce had been here, Viktor was sure he could've incapacitated him just by doing this. He should've just done something similar in front of him on the street. Jayce would've gotten sick. Viktor paused as the bone cut through the first part of the chain with a small clink and his whole body gave a small shudder of excitement. He continued to saw, though a number of factors were proving to creep in. He was starting to become exhausted from the energy loss that always accompanied his self-mutilation. His hands were shaking and he was starting to lose fine motor control in his wrist. His vision was still flickering, but he could not let this stop him. That static feeling had consumed the whole side of his head and it was agonizing. Viktor was struggling. He was barely managing to stand and he staggered for a moment, squeezing his eyes shut before there was a loud snap. It seemed to resonate through the cavern and Viktor's very core. He stopped moving all at once. He... He didn't even know if he could. All around him, his blood was rising up in mist. He finally raised his wrist. Three seconds for the chain to disappear. His eye slowly moved back to the Rune. Three seconds for the chain to disappear. Three seconds of silence. Viktor finally reached out, steadying his steaming hand against the rock as he leaned forward. There was a clattering noise as he cast the piece of bone aside. It only sounded solid for a moment or two before suddenly exploding into mist. Viktor could already feel it regrowing. He could feel blood running from his mouth and his eye. He was starting to recover his hearing and his eyesight in his left eye. His eyelid still wouldn't move from its limp position. Good gods. Good gods, he was... Viktor felt like he wanted to cry. He shakily raised his arm before unbuttoning his sleeve. He rolled it down and trembled. The veins had turned into something else. Now, his skin seemed warped with some strange webbing. He raised his hand, cupping it over where the chain had connected. He was... He was warm?? His skin actually felt... hot around the webbing. He rolled his sleeve back up, struggling to button it again. He shook his head as he turned, leaning back against the rock instead. As he finally became aware of what was in front of him again, it finally clicked for him that Singed was right in his face, watching him with bright-eyed fascination. Viktor jerked back before instantly making a face. Singed was saying something, but it was blurred and muffled. Viktor moved away from him and he crinkled his nose in annoyance as Singed followed, still uncomfortably close. He finally snapped for him to back up and he wasn't sure how loud he was, but the doctor jumped and moved backwards. Viktor raised a hand to his head. He paused as he noticed Silco come up behind the doctor, watching Viktor with a furrowed brow. Viktor twitched, his left eye squeezing shut before he was finally able to open it again. His vision was still pulsing and his head still had the static in parts of it. But good gods, he was finally... He could see that Singed and Silco were saying things and he furrowed his brow, raising his hands to his ears. He tapped them once and that bubble of silence suddenly popped. "-ncredible! I've never seen anything like it! Viktor, I was not aware you were dead. How fascinating. Usually one has to imbue a weapon with their blood in order to break the Bind." "I do not think my blood would've been much use, Doctor." Viktor replied in a jumbled voice, gesturing to the last remaining swirls of mist from the blood he'd spattered all over the cave floor. He still had his other hand pressed back against the rock behind him to keep himself from standing. Singed instantly moved forward, saying he could take the Rune off his hands. Viktor suddenly went blind in his eye as blood exploded down his face. "No!" Singed pulled his hand back, seeming taken back. Viktor paused and gave a quiet sigh. Three seconds to compose himself. "This Rune is one of the main reasons he is hunting me. I am going to return it as quickly as possible." He glanced up as Silco spoke, asking if that was wise. "I may materialize anywhere I wish now. It will not take me long." Viktor replied. Silco looked him over quietly. "...If you do remain safe, I would like to request you return here. However, if you do not return before nightfall, I'll assume he's taken you again." He said quietly. "I do hope I won't find it to be the latter." Viktor reached out, scooping up the Rune. He shook his head before asking Silco and Singed to excuse him. He'd never thought he would miss the feeling of fully dematerializing and appearing somewhere else.He landed on the carpet of Jayce's apartment. He paused. The apartment was a mess. Papers and books were thrown all over the floor. Jayce's sheets were halfway off his bed. Viktor blinked as he turned to look at the bathroom. The mirror was shattered from a single impact point. What had... happened? Had Jayce really done this to his own room? Viktor turned back and paused. His bed was the only clean, untouched thing here. Viktor materialized his cane, moving forward. He placed the bracelet on the bed sheets. He turned away and his body was already starting to dematerialize before he froze as he saw the journal on Jayce's bed. Good gods. The pages were crumpled and there were broken pens around it, the ink staining into his wrinkled sheets. With how much of a disaster the room was, Viktor wasn't even sure if Jayce had been attending his classes. He hesitantly moved forward, reaching out to the journal. It was wide open to one of the destroyed pages.
He left me.
Viktor paused, his eyes scanning over the words. They were deeply etched into the page, likely tearing through and seeping into the one beneath it. Viktor felt a chill going through his body as he reached out, tracing his fingers over the page.
He left me??
He took my Rune and he left me.
What do I do now?
Where did he go?
The later sentences were in a different shade, likely from a different pen.
He isn't at the old apartment.
He isn't at the Academy.
Where did he go?
Why can't I find him?
The writing only seemed to grow more desperate and the pages seemed stained. Viktor stared at the journal quietly. Had Jayce... only been worrying about him?? What about his Rune? It looked like Jayce had only mentioned it once. So... he hadn't been angry about the Rune at all when he'd yelled for him? Had he really just been upset that Viktor had left? For a moment, Viktor couldn't believe it. He glanced around the trashed apartment quietly. Over at the desk, there were bits and pieces. Gears, metal paneling and screws. He'd built something over here. Viktor wasn't sure what it was. It had to have been something on the smaller side. "Did you even go to class, Jayce??" He muttered to himself. Three taps of his cane. He moved over to the bathroom, staring inside at the mirror. The glass was all spiderwebbed from a single point. When Viktor glanced down, he froze up at the stale-seeming blood that had spattered the marble sink. Viktor backed out of the bathroom, turning and making his way back to Jayce's bed. He had to focus all of his energy into turning the page of the journal. His eyes scanned over the words.
I've built a tracker. It should pinpoint where the Rune is, and by default, Viktor. He couldn't have found a way to break the Bind yet. I suspect he's in Zaun. I have to go get him. I have to find him. What am I supposed to do? How am I supposed to continue my research? I thought we'd been getting along. Maybe not friends. Maybe not even acquaintances, but I just thought
The thought seemed to trail off and Viktor hesitated before following it to the other page.
I thought maybe he wouldn't try to leave the first chance he got. Was it that bad? Did I push too far?
Viktor furrowed his brow. So not only was Jayce a loose cannon, but he was dense as a brick. Viktor had thought Jayce was aware of his manipulation. It had seemed like he was, but... Viktor glanced down at the journal. Maybe Jayce... hadn't been faking with him. He jumped as he heard something hit the door outside, making it rattle before he heard keys. He had to get out of here. He had to... Why couldn't he move?? His body was ready to dematerialize, as evident by the mist curling off of him. The door flung open and Jayce froze up completely as he saw Viktor. He was holding his side and he had horrible bruising around his neck. His hands were bandaged, but one of them was bloody. Jayce staggered inside, slamming the door shut. He seemed to be trying to figure out if Viktor was actually there or not. Viktor's eyes widened as tears suddenly started down his face. It had only been a few days. Good gods, it had only been a few days, how was Jayce... already like this?He saw Jayce open his mouth and Viktor dematerialized in an instant. He reappeared back in Singed's lab, though he was sure he looked visibly shaken. Silco glanced up from where he'd been resting on some stairs leading up to one of the massive tubes. He made a small, intrigued noise. "...I didn't think you would come back." He said bluntly. Viktor glanced over at him and furrowed his brow. "Did he not have some trap lying in wait for you?" No. No, he... hadn't. And that was what Viktor would've expected of Jayce. Not the panicked mess he'd returned to. Not the absolute self-destruction he'd found. His hands tightened on his cane as he shook his head. Jayce really... He really was dense as a damn rock if he'd thought Viktor wouldn't try to escape. Yet again, his ego proved to be too much of him. But... Viktor's chest slightly ached. Jayce had seemed devastated to see him standing in there again. It had only been a few days. How was Jayce already so messed up over it? Viktor... felt slightly guilty that he wasn't having as difficult a time. But then again... Jayce had... He wasn't sure if he would call what Jayce had put him through as 'hell' but maybe something similar. Not quite as bad, but still... threatening. It was bothering him. The entire time, he'd thought Jayce had been treating him with malicious intent, but was he really just... like that? Viktor gave a sigh through his nose. How unlucky. He glanced over as Silco stood up. "You may be free to wander as you wish, but I did have some hope you would... perhaps stick around." Silco said quietly. "Unless you have other places you would like to go." Viktor paused before tipping his head. He was thinking quietly. Three seconds of silence."Perhaps... I will remain for a little." Viktor stated. Silco seemed pleasantly surprised by that. "I... do not have anywhere else to be."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
As it turned out, Jayce had purposefully fractured the Hex Crystal in his device in order to get away from Sevika. The resulting blast had not only sent her arm haywire, but also demolished several empty market stalls on the street. Viktor had been sent back to The Last Drop on his own, Silco having told him to go ahead. He found Sevika sitting outside of the building, watching in complete and utter unamusement as her mechanical arm twitched and writhed on the ground like some kind of demented metal worm. Viktor materialized next to her silently, leaning on his cane. Three seconds of watching. Almost immediately, he could tell what Jayce had done in order to escape her. "He's clever, is he not?" Viktor spoke quietly and Sevika nearly jumped to her feet, swearing loudly. She turned to look over at him in shock, scanning him over. "Don't look so disappointed." Sevika's eyes landed on his wrist and she raised a brow. "You're sticking around?" She asked, gesturing to where the chain had been. Viktor gave a small shrug, saying it was just for a little while. Until he found something else of interest. "Not many can just come and go after meeting Silco." "None of them have been dead for years before meeting him." Viktor replied with a raised brow. Sevika scoffed. She pulled out her cigarettes, lighting one with a bit of difficulty. She blew out a puff of smoke as she watched her arm continue to twitch and writhe before commenting that she had thought for sure it would've stopped by now. "It is imbued with magic it cannot handle. It will likely continue doing that a little longer." Viktor replied casually. Sevika glanced over at him. Three seconds of silence. Sevika gave a small chuckle."Lot of the boys in there have eyes on you." She stated, her tone both warming and amused as she nodded back towards the door. Viktor paused and his hands tightened on his cane. His face must've changed because Sevika snickered. "I'm guessing you aren't used to that kind of attention, bookworm?" Viktor glanced at her before saying he had never been quite fond of it. Especially if they were only seeking one thing from him. "Not a hookup kind of guy, huh?" Viktor shook his head, replying that he absolutely was not and he was grateful none of them would actually be able to touch him. "You know it's that uniform of yours that's grabbing attention, right?" Viktor blinked. Was it? "Don't you have some kind of dead man's wardrobe?" The phrase alone made Viktor give a soft scoff of amusement, a smile pulling at his lips. "I am able to change my appearance as I wish, as long as the base of it is still me. However, the changes are always... temporary." Viktor gave a quiet sigh and Sevika blew out another puff of smoke, raising her brow. Viktor could tell she was waiting for an explanation.
The time of death was 11:42 PM.
"The changes stay until the exact minute I hit the pavement. No matter what I do to my appearance, it will always revert to how I looked last." He stated. Sevika gave a quiet sigh, blowing smoke out of her nose. She leaned back against the wall before speaking again, asking if the Academy had been that stressful. "There were always... these unspoken rules that I never could figure out. There were things we were not to speak of and people we were never to argue with. I... did not understand this. I was nearly expelled and my research was shut down after a single presentation, on which I did not know at the time was apparently a... forbidden topic in Piltover." Sevika snorted before asking what that was. "The Grey." Instantly, Sevika's smile faded and she glanced up. She asked what he'd been thinking after a moment. "That I was simply presenting research. My area of study was disease. Epidemiology." Viktor replied. "I know every symptom that has ever presented itself from The Grey, from close proximity to far. And I didn't realize that... presenting such a thing would get me diagnosed with a resulting disease of such a chemical... and have me outed as a Zaunite in front of the entire Academy." Sevika paused and glanced at him. She asked in surprise if he was actually a Zaunite. "I am. I lived closer to the mines when I was a child. I was, uh, exposed to The Grey at a young age. The symptoms had yet to fully manifest... and I just... stopped it before it started." Sevika had fallen quiet, blowing out another puff of smoke as she stared at him. Viktor raised a brow before his gaze moved to the ground. Three taps of his cane. "Silco sent me back here. He said he had to fetch something." Viktor decided to change the subject and paused as Sevika spoke, saying he was likely picking up Powder from wherever he'd hidden her. "Felicia's daughter. He told me of her. While I am curious, I know she will not be able to see me. You and Silco are only able to do so under the effects of Shimmer, which I would hope is too dangerous to be given to a child." Sevika nodded, turning her gaze back to her still writhing arm. "You won't be able to see me soon either." Sevika replied that she knew. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes. Both of them continued to watch the arm. "...It is taking quite a while to calm down." Sevika snorted, saying that she'd expected it to stop moving ten minutes ago. "Where'd you leave that rock of yours?" She asked, glancing over. Viktor blinked before saying he'd returned it to Jayce. "The man who chained you in the first place with it?" Sevika said flatly. Viktor glanced down, saying Jayce would have to catch him a second time to do it again. And he wouldn't be letting his guard down like that twice. Sevika looked him up and down before chuckling. "You're tougher than I give you credit for, bookworm. Appearances really are deceiving, I guess." Viktor sighed, thanking her sarcastically for the half-compliment. They both glanced up as the arm gave one final crackle and pop before falling limp. "Finally." Sevika muttered, pushing herself to her feet. She moved over to it and knelt down. "...I don't suppose you know anything about mechanics." "Unfortunately, prosthetics were not covered in my anatomy courses." Viktor replied. He paused as there were footsteps. Silco soon emerged from a side street, holding a girl. She was slumped against him, clearly sleeping. All Viktor could make out at first was small braids in her blue hair. Silco sidestepped Sevika as she scooped up her frayed arm, the cigarette still tucked between her lips. Viktor tipped his head as Silco approached the door before slowing to a stop as he took notice of him. "This must be Powder, no?" He moved around to the back of Silco. When he saw the little girl's face, he paused. "...She does look like her." "I know it." Silco replied quietly. "I'm sure it won't take long for her to notice you're here, but I doubt she will be able to see or hear you for a long time." Viktor replied that he understood, moving back around to stand in front of him. "I will be setting up a bed for her on the couch in the office for now. If you would excuse me, Viktor." Silco moved past him, Viktor watching as he disappeared inside with the girl. He glanced back at Sevika, who was looking over her arm in distaste. He turned and fazed through the doors, appearing in the bar again. Oh. He hesitated as he saw all the people milling about. There were empty vials scattered around the tables. Some of the men seemed to notice him with their glowing purple eyes. "Hey, beautiful. Finally got out of class?" One of them called out with a grin as he leaned back in his chair. "If you head on over here, I can give you a real lesson." The other men at the table laughed and Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. He hadn't even heard the door open behind him. The men all seemed to fall silent. "He's from a Piltover Academy and you're dumber than a bag of rocks. You aren't teaching him anything." Sevika stated flatly, her mechanical arm being held in her remaining one. "I'm sure we can show a Piltie a thing or two about how we do it down in Zaun." Another man said, grinning. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He glanced up as Sevika moved up next to him. "Come on." She said quietly, nodding for him to follow her. His hands loosened on his cane gratefully as he moved after her. She stepped aside to let him up the stairs first, any whistles being cut abruptly short behind him. Presumably because of Sevika. Viktor had never had this kind of attention on him, admittedly. No one in the Academy had seemed interested. The only one who'd shown him any kind of intrigue was... Viktor's shoulders sank. Of course it was always him. But even then, Jayce had obviously been much more into the possession. Even once Viktor had discovered what it did for him, he'd continued to humor him. Mostly because it was harmless to Viktor and didn't take energy out of him. It didn't put him at any risk. If anything, Jayce's over-excitement had amused him. Both he and Sevika emerged into the now-empty upper hallway. She sighed and leaned back against the wall, sliding down and taking the final drag of her cigarette before seeming to put it out with her own fingers. "Well, as you said before, they can't touch you.""One of the few things I appreciate about being dead." Viktor replied, leaning back against the wall himself. He was admittedly a little miffed and Sevika seemed to notice, snorting quietly and asking what was wrong. "No one has ever addressed me like that. It is... the first time I've heard a stranger willingly ask me closer." Sevika blinked before saying that he must not have been very popular. "I barely spoke to anyone unless it was necessary. Being... social was not, uh, a priority of mine. Especially when I'd been trying to hide that I was a Zaunite. When that fact escaped, nearly the whole Academy turned their noses up at me, despite me being top of my classes." "Ain't that just how it goes for us." Sevika mused quietly. "You must've been pretty smart to blend in for so long." Viktor chuckled, murmuring that he appreciated the compliment. He watched as Sevika glanced over at the discarded metal arm, nudging it with her foot in slight frustration. Viktor tipped his head. His cane tapped against the floor as he moved around her before kneeling down. He studied the arm curiously. He paused as Sevika dragged it closer, seeming to tug open some paneling in order to get to the glowing vial inside. She yanked it out before tipping it into her mouth, wincing as the veins up the side of her neck gave a glow, along with her eyes. "That's the last one I got until my next payday." "You must really like speaking to me." Viktor joked lightly, Sevika rolling her eyes and replying for him not to talk himself up. "It is not often I get the chance to do so, my apologies." Sevika replied that he wasn't sorry. "You are correct." He paused as he heard the ruckus from downstairs get slightly louder, voices yelling for the Academy boy to come back down and visit them. Viktor glanced back towards the stairs. Sevika sighed heavily. "Listen, Viktor, I know money doesn't mean shit to you anymore, but I'll give you a Cog if you go down there and do that thing where you cave your skull in." Sevika said, leaning back against the wall with a smile. Viktor blinked. "Throw in a Gear and I'll even snap my neck as well." He replied with a grin, leaning on his cane. He finally waved his hand dismissively and started towards the stairs. "I have no need for money. I'll just do it for free."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The rumble that swept through Zaun was enough to get anyone's attention and Viktor paused his conversation with Silco in order to raise his head. Three seconds to listen. "The Sheriff told me they would activating the... 'Hexgates' today." Silco told him, seeming to notice Viktor's apprehension. "Of course, it would've been preferable if Piltover had the decency to issue a warning to everyone in Zaun..." The ground continued to give a low rumble. The Hexgates. Right. Even after all this time, Jayce still found a way to jut back into his life. The first year and a half back out on his own had been nightmarish. Jayce had become something of a ghoulish presence in Zaun, stalking the streets at night. Silco had finally just paid off the Enforcers to keep Jayce out of Zaun entirely once he'd started showing up with a hammer that he seemed to have built from scratch himself. One would think to stop a person entering another city with what was clearly a weapon prior to this, but Silco had had to pay the Enforcers to finally stop him. It was imbued with a Hex Crystal, something Sevika had discovered a little too late, resulting in the loss of yet another mechanical arm. It seemed Jayce had figured out how to implement his 'concentrated beams of energy' theory. Viktor gave a quiet sigh, rolling his eyes."Even across cities, he still manages to haunt me." Viktor muttered. A smile tugged at Silco's lips as he replied that it was ironic. Viktor blinked and glanced up at him. "I believe you are supposed to be the one doing the haunting, no?" Silco said, leaning back against his desk. Viktor scoffed softly. He jumped as there was suddenly a blue blur and something passed through his body. "RAH!" The battle cry made Viktor pause before a smile quirked his lips and he started laughing as he leaned on his cane. The young teen quickly spun around, squinting her blue eyes around his general area. "How close did I get?? Did I get him??" She asked excitedly, glancing over at Silco. Silco chuckled and the teen paused. "He's right here, isn't he??" She gestured towards Viktor, but slightly off to the left. Silco murmured that she'd been quite close and the girl groaned. Viktor paused, raising a brow at Silco as he stated that she had gotten him this time. Silco casually replied that she didn't have to know that and the girl blinked. "Know whaaat??" She whined. She threw her hands up in frustration. "Come on! When do I get to see the invisible guy??" "You’re not old enough, Jinx." Silco spoke in a reminding tone and the young teen groaned even louder. Right, it wasn't Powder anymore. She'd chosen a new name. And Silco was right. Jinx was still too young to have Shimmer. It had been decided that if Viktor was still around, Jinx would be given a micro dose of Shimmer once she was old enough so she could finally meet him. She already seemed to have a really good sense of if he was in a room or not, even without anyone talking to or looking at him. Her braids were much longer now, halfway down her back. Viktor tipped his head before moving over. He reached out, scooping one up and dropping it. Jinx jumped as it hit her back, her spinning around. "Where are you??" She huffed in frustration as she reached out, her hands passing through Viktor's arm. He chuckled quietly. "Can I know something new about him?? Please??" Silco replied that it was not her birthday yet and Jinx scoffed. "He has... amber eyes and he... wears an Academy uniform... He's got brown hair aaaand he's... in his twenties." She recited everything they'd told her over the past few years. "That's not a lot! It's not fair that everyone else gets to see him except me!" Silco watched her before sighing through his nose and glancing over at Viktor. Viktor gave a small shrug before lifting his cane and tapping it with his pinky. Three taps on his cane. Silco rolled his eyes. "He walks with a cane." He told Jinx, whose eyes went wide. "Is that what all those tippy-taps are??" She asked. Viktor started laughing quietly. He hadn't realized she could hear them and based on Silco's face, neither had he. Viktor tipped his head. Three taps of his cane against the floor. Jinx jumped, turning to look in his direction with wide eyes. "Yeah! Yeah, those!" She exclaimed. Viktor smiled. Silco sighed before telling Jinx to go find Sevika. He'd been sitting with Viktor in silence until Jinx had come along, both just existing in the same area. Viktor had been reading and Silco had been supposedly working on shipment logs. Viktor did occasionally do him small favors, like delivering things to acquaintances around Zaun, but only if he had the energy. Viktor had taken note of Silco's face the entire time they'd been sitting in silence. He'd been thinking. He wanted to ask Viktor something. Viktor was well aware of Silco's shady dealings, but he kept himself distanced, with the exception of the small deliveries. "Okay... Bye Viktor!" Jinx called out to the open air before turning and running to the door. Silco waited until the door was shut before glancing up at Viktor. "Would you be willing to make a delivery to Sheriff Marcus for me? It's a small item." Viktor raised a brow. He murmured that he supposed, rolling his eyes. It always slightly stressed him out going up to Piltover, but the longest he'd been up there was maybe five minutes. And it was always to see Marcus. The other had been given a bracelet that deposited the smallest amount of Shimmer into his system so he was able to see Viktor. Like Jinx, Marcus also seemed to have a keen sense of when Viktor was nearby. He didn't seem willing to get too friendly, but they were at least on cordial terms. Silco scoffed at his eye roll. He reached behind him before scooping up a small device. It looked vaguely like a beetle. Viktor could recognize Singed's design anywhere. "I had the doctor design this with some other bright minds. I also intend the utilize the Hexgates for my... product, however, I cannot have them appear in the trade logs. This will scrub any shipments from Zaun in the systems." Viktor blinked before replying that it was quite bold. "I wouldn't have had this commissioned unless I thought someone would be able to take it up there." Viktor raised a brow as he moved forward. "You have a dangerous amount of faith in me, Silco." He stated, looking the device over. Silco looked him over in response before replying that Viktor had been good company to him. And he'd been good company to Jinx, despite her not being able to see or hear him. "Please return quickly. Marcus should already be waiting at the Hexgates. You just need to bring it to him." Everyone that Silco had connections with in Piltover had to have a Rune of some kind on them in order to even sense Viktor's presence, or for him to materialize to where they were. However, Marcus was the only one with a Shimmer bracelet. Viktor reached out. Silco had started keeping his office purposely dim for Viktor to properly handle things. He took the bug from Silco. He should've been able to materialize near Marcus. "And when I return, you spoke of wanting to take Jinx out to paint?" Jinx seemed to have taken to spray painting lately. She had yet to paint anything cohesive, seeming content with just spreading colors on the wall. Silco nodded, a bit of a warm look coming into his eyes. "Will I be joining you both?" Silco glanced up. "Would you break her poor little heart? You know she can sense when you’re nearby." Silco reminded him with a quiet chuckle. Viktor gave a smile in response, nodding to him. "Be quick. Be careful, Viktor." Viktor turned away from him, closing his eyes. He had to focus when he was transporting physical objects. He finally materialized in a... startlingly blue environment. The moment he did, he inhaled shakily. He felt so... solid. He could hear an intimidating hum. He was on some kind of platform. He hesitated. Three seconds of paralysis. Three seconds to recover. Three seconds to look behind him. Viktor slowly turned, staring at where a bright blue light shone from below a railing. He hesitated before moving forward, the taps of his cane drowned out completely. As he glanced over, the ache in his head suddenly became unbearable as his vision blurred. Something wet instantly began to run down his face from his nose and he watched as his blood disappeared towards the bright light below. This was the Hexgate?? Good gods. He backed up from the railing before turning around. All of a sudden, something grabbed him. He wasn't sure what to do for a moment, his cane clattering to the floor. He was more shocked about something touching him than he was about anything else. Then, his blurry vision started to focus and he met... those golden-brown eyes. For a moment, he could only stare back at Jayce. His eyes drifted over his shoulder to see Marcus watching in shock. Viktor flicked his wrist, the beetle sliding across the floor. Marcus seemed to take note of it before catching it and hiding it under his foot. "Mr. Talis, what are you doing??" He demanded, sounding absolutely baffled. Like Jayce was crazy. Viktor still wasn't sure how Jayce was... He shakily reached up and he paused as he felt the glove Jayce was wearing. It seemed embedded with small crystals. Don't. Don't. Viktor was shaking slightly as he took note of Jayce's glowing Rune. Not like this. Not again. Jayce's hand slowly moved from his neck to his shoulder. Jayce's expression was unreadable and Viktor wasn't sure what he was doing at first. His whole body was tensed up. For a moment, he was only aware of those eyes and the rumble of the Hexgate behind him. Jayce's gloved hand soon moved from his shoulder to his arm. He heard Marcus call out again. Was Jayce going to do it?? He could see so much conflict in his eyes. He clearly wanted to. Jayce looked... a little disheveled. His hair was only smoothed back as opposed to styled. He had a shadow of a beard. He looked weary. Viktor could feel those gloved fingers shaking on his arm, slowly moving down. They stopped near his elbow. Was Jayce going to let him go? He... He didn't know. Marcus called out once more and Jayce's eyes filled with pain. The Rune suddenly lit up and Viktor's eyes widened. "NO!!" He instantly yelled as that stinging erupted through his skin. Tears instantly sprung to his eyes. "Fuck!" Not again. Gods, not again. He almost considered breaking his head open again right then and there. How was Jayce even seeing him?? He glanced up before a blue gleam on Jayce's ear caught his attention. A Hex Crystal was embedded in his ear. Viktor could vaguely see veins. Had Jayce really...? "Jayce. Why??" Viktor couldn't help the pain and exhaustion erupt in his words. Jayce's eyes instantly about his and he turned away. "S-Sorry, Sheriff. I think the humming is getting to my head. This magic is powerful... I appreciate you accompanying me to check that the activation went smoothly." He told Marcus with a vague smile. Marcus looked him over before nodding. He seemed as if he'd already pocketed the bug. He asked if Jayce would need to be escorted out. "No, thank you, Sheriff." He started to move forward. "I'll let the Council Head know you've been very helpful." He spoke in a promising tone, but Marcus didn't seem to be listening. He met Viktor's eyes as the other was forced to follow Jayce. "...I will try to return soon. Please inform him of my trouble." Viktor's voice was barely a breath. Marcus gave him the smallest nod. It was the first time Viktor had seen the other look worried for him. He gave a small sigh as his eyes back to Jayce. Somehow, the stinging of the Bind felt twice as bitter.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Three minutes of silence. Viktor was furious, small spikes forming and retreating from his shoulders. He was. He was absolutely livid. What horrible luck. Three taps of his cane. He finally stopped dead in his tracks, yanking Jayce to a halt. They stood in the entrance hall to the Hexgate. The other paused and gave a quiet sigh, not turning to look at him. "Don't do this, Viktor." He sounded exhausted. Viktor only narrowed his eyes at the back of his head. He remained silent and still. "Viktor." "Or what, Jayce? What will you do if I just stay here?" Viktor challenged quietly, his hands tight on his cane. He couldn't believe this. Chained again. Chained to Jayce again. Good gods, he thought he'd left this behind him. Jayce hesitated before finally glancing back at him. Viktor couldn't believe his audacity. Here he had been, just for a single moment, thinking Jayce was actually going to let him go. He'd seen the conflict in his eyes. He'd seen his hesitation. He'd felt it. And yet, he was still... Viktor gave a heavy sigh through his nose. He scanned over Jayce's eyes. "You know I've broken it before." He stated quietly. Jayce paused before nodding, saying he'd made sure this one wouldn't be as easy. "Oh, have you?" Viktor's voice was slightly scathing. Genuinely, and utterly, he was beyond upset. Jayce nodded. "The Binding Rune requires sacrifice... but the sacrifices can be for things other than breaking the Bind." Jayce replied quietly. Viktor narrowed his eyes at him. His shoulders were still spiking uncontrollably as he spoke in a soft, accusatory tone, saying Jayce had known how to break it from the start. "Not from the start. It took me a year or two to figure it out." He admitted. "I just..." He glanced up at him. "I... couldn't continue parts of my research without you." No. No, there was another reason Jayce had chosen not to say. Jayce was actually thinking about his words?? A lot must have changed in those four years apart. "In case you need a reminder, you tricked me. You tricked me and trapped me. You lied to me and you threatened me." Viktor stated firmly. Three steps forward. His gaze would not falter. Three taps of his cane. "You threatened to hurt me and then assumed I wouldn't flee the first chance I got?? A supposed genius like you should've seen the flaws in your own theory." Jayce stared at him. He could see him struggling again in his eyes. Viktor furrowed his brow. "...What is wrong with you?? Speak. Say something. Try to lie to me, I dare you." Jayce's lips parted, but no voice seemed to escape him. There was something... blue deep in his eyes. Viktor paused. "You said you would hurt me. Could you ever actually do it?" "I wanted to. I-I wanted to, but I'm not violent like that. I don't like blood. I don't like confrontation." Jayce stated after a moment. "It's too messy and it never does me any good. I don't like hurting people." Viktor furrowed his brow before saying Jayce would throw him around like a ragdoll. Jayce's brow twitched and his gaze narrowed into a glare. "But it never hurt you, did it??" What an absolutely disgusting ego. Viktor stated that Jayce always fought with Sevika and it was clear Jayce had to think about who that even was before it clicked. "It's always self-defense. I have never approached her with the intent to engage or harm. She's the one to do it everytime. And I don't like hurting her. I don't like to hurt people. I told you, I don't like injury and I don't like confrontation." Viktor's hands were tight on his cane. "But you have hurt me, Jayce." He stopped him before Jayce could protest, the other clearly having opened his mouth to do so. "Hurt doesn't have to be physical. You ripped me apart verbally. Mocked my kindness. Kept me against my will, knowing you could release me and choosing not to. All of these things cause hurt." Viktor watched as that confusion flitted across Jayce's face. "Good gods, Jayce, are you that self-absorbed or do you just lack empathy altogether??" Jayce seemed genuinely taken back by his question. Viktor's eyes hadn't left his once and he swore... He swore he could see something blue within them. There were far too many emotions passing through Jayce's eyes for him to be making that calm of a face. "Jayce. What did you do??" Jayce could only stare back at him. Viktor furrowed his brow before stepping forward. Jayce's body gave a violent shudder as Viktor took it over. He wasn't interested in piloting though. No, he turned to Jayce's thoughts. Something was wrong. Jayce had done something to himself, what had he done?? Viktor could see... blue. Blue strings were all around the darkened space. Jayce's thoughts often manifested as their own strings, though most were completely frayed. However, the new blue strings seemed to be trapping groups of thoughts together, preventing them from snapping and, consequently, escaping. Viktor reached out to the strings, his brow furrowed. So many groups of thoughts were being restrained. How had Jayce managed to Bind his own mind?? His hands touched the first group and he paused.
I should just bash her head in at this point. The fighting is getting annoying.
...No one would search the river.
Viktor pulled his hand back, his brow furrowed. He reached out to another group of strings.
Just cut him open. See what's inside of him. Maybe I could use it. The research requires blood anyway. It's not like anyone would miss him.
Could I even get away with that?? No, he's too important. They'd notice he's gone before I could even finish the job. Of course the most annoying people would be the hardest to get rid of.
...On second thought, I don't know if I care about being caught for killing him anymore. I'm on my last nerve with him.
Viktor blinked. All the groups seemed to be... violent thoughts. Urges. Each group about a different person. The farther he went back, the more violent the thoughts became. Dismemberment, torture, maiming. Jayce wanted to hurt people. Jayce wanted to hurt people badly. Viktor furrowed his brow. Was that why he'd put a Bind on himself?? To keep these urges at bay?? Had Jayce been... worried about the safety of others or had he been so worried his reputation would be tarnished by acting on these thoughts that he'd sealed them away?? Based on how many of the free floating thoughts were about himself, Viktor was willing to wager that it was the second one. Had Jayce had these thoughts before and he'd been better at keeping them in check? He hesitated before reaching out to one more group.
I should've just forced him into the mouse. I should've just bound him to the damn body. I could've put him in a cage. I could've kept him. He couldn't leave me then.
How could he leave me??
If only he weren't dead. If only he weren't dead, I could do the job with my bare hands.
I just want to pull him apart. I want to pull him apart and see what parts turn to mist. What would it take to see inside of him?? Once I can touch him again, I can rip him open. I just want to see. I want to pull the magic apart. I want to put his bits under a microscope. Keep him on display in a box. I just want to look at him. Every part of him.
Every part of him.
Viktor yanked his hand back. Even Jayce's hands were trembling as Viktor controlled them. That was about him. That was about Viktor. Jayce's heart was pounding in his chest, but Viktor couldn't tell if it was from his influence or Jayce's. Good gods. If Jayce hadn't put a Bind on those, what would he have done?? "You hated me so much?" He asked in soft confusion, his accent messily twisting Jayce's voice. He didn't understand. Hadn't Jayce been relieved to see him when he had returned the Rune?? Or had Viktor imagined it? Why would Jayce absolutely trash his room if the person he hated disappeared from his life?? The strings containing the thoughts about Viktor was the biggest group held by the Bind. Viktor was, once again, glad he was already dead. He slipped out of Jayce's body, sending the other straight to his knees. Jayce let out a shaky inhale, his face completely flushed. He clearly hadn't felt that in a long time. Viktor turned to look back at him. Fortunately, he didn't think he could look any paler than he already was. Jayce glanced up. "...I see that look. They're in Binds. All of them are in Binds. They won't break. They won't come forward. The Binds won't let them." He finally managed to get back up, though he had to steady himself. "I don't hate you. I don't." His tone seemed assuring and Viktor furrowed his brow. Three seconds of doubt. Three steps back. No. No, it didn't assure him. If anything, it made him even more uneasy. Something... was seriously wrong with this man. As if Viktor had needed a new reminder about that. How had it gotten even worse?? How had he gotten even worse?"You said you don't like hurting people. Not even twenty minutes back and you are already telling me lies." Viktor stated, his eyes slipping into a glare. Jayce stared at him blankly before saying that he hadn't been lying. "Jayce, I saw into your head. I saw them. I heard them. You want to hurt people." Jayce immediately replied that wasn't the same as liking it. Viktor rolled his eyes, turning away with a frustrated groan. "You are all about the... technicalities now, are you?" "No. No, they're different. My urges are not the same as my likes. I don't like acting on them. Right now..." Jayce could only stare for a moment. Three steps forward. Viktor froze up, meeting Jayce's gaze. Those golden-brown eyes bore into his. "Right now, if you were made of flesh and bone, I'd want to rip out your throat with my teeth." The statement made Viktor's body lock up. Jayce only continued to stare. "But you know I hate blood. I hate seeing injury like that. You know I would get fucking sick." Viktor knew this. Even beneath several layers of doubt, he knew this to be the truth. With how bad Jayce had always reacted to his broken form... He would sometimes get so sick that he couldn't even stand. And yet... Viktor could still tell he had violent tendencies. The urge was so shockingly animalistic, yet it didn't surprise Viktor at all if Jayce would eventually act on it. He could only stare at him as he held up his chained arm. "Was this an urge too?" He asked after a moment. Jayce's eyes flitted to the chain and his gaze averted. "I saw it in your eyes. You were trying to fight it. You could still let me go." Viktor stated, looking him over. Just for now. Just while Jayce's ego had this crack in it. This small crack. It was enough, wasn't it? "You don't like having me chained, but you had an urge to, right?" He was scanning him over. Jayce's eyes still wouldn't meet his. "Jayce. You can still let me go. You know how to break the Bind. Surely you can do it easier than me." Jayce's eyes hesitantly met his. There was conflict in his eyes again. A fracture in his ego. Was Viktor getting through?? Could he actually convince him?? Jayce finally spoke again, though his voice remained quiet. "...There's a problem with that." What?? What now? Was this a special kind of Bind?? Had Jayce done something that he couldn't undo, or at the very least, didn't know how to?? Again? Viktor furrowed his brow. He paused as Jayce stepped forward, reaching out and grabbing his wrist with a trembling, gloved hand. "Because this... was not an urge. I like seeing you chained like this. I like knowing you won't leave me." Viktor felt himself go cold. "The urge I'm struggling with is... to let you go. I wouldn't like letting you go... but I want to. I know it would be better. I know better." Jayce swallowed quietly. "But my like far outweighs that urge. Right now, you are chained again. You can't leave me for now." Viktor stared at him before his brow furrowed in frustration and he yanked his hand away. "Then you are hurting me. You said you didn't like hurting people, Jayce. What am I supposed to believe??" Viktor demanded. Three steps back. Three second of silence. "Well, if how you explained it is... true, I guess I..." Jayce glanced to the side. "I guess I just don't like hurting people physically then." He finally rolled his eyes before giving a shrug. "I guess it's just another one of my... technicalities, huh?" That ego was back. Viktor could only feel his form start to spike around his shoulders again. He was going to break this Bind and he was going to get the hell out of here. For a moment, he'd thought Jayce was just... just misunderstood. Fighting away his bad thoughts and struggling with his demons. But no. No, Jayce was still every bit as terrible and selfish as Viktor remembered. He stated in a firm voice that he would get away from him again. Jayce paused, looking him over. "...I wouldn't like that." He replied quietly, that blue glow still seen deep in his eyes. Despite the number of Binds Viktor had seen, this urge was not within any of them. "I've learned a lot since you've been gone." Three steps forward. Viktor's eyes widened. Three steps back. "And while I would like to just show you... I want to demonstrate."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor wasn't sure what to do for a moment before Jayce's gloved hand was flat against his chest. The Rune lit up again and Viktor's eyes widened as more chains suddenly exploded out from it. He was forced to drop his cane as they wrapped around him. "A Rune like this is only capable of its namesake. Binding only, uh, has one definition just... dressed up in different words. To hold together." What could Viktor do?? His head was pounding and he paused. Could he scare him away?? Maybe? Couldn't he? The soft cracking started before Jayce's eyes flicked up. Viktor startled as the chains suddenly shifted. He screamed out and watched as Jayce flinched, squeezing his eyes shut and looking away. The chains had turned into strings and they sank themselves into Viktor's body. It felt like they were attaching to his bones, forcibly pulling them back together. Stitching them back together. Viktor felt tears erupt down his face and Jayce pulled his hand back, Viktor collapsing to his knees. The side of his body felt... raw. It was stinging. It was stinging all over and the vision in his left eye had blurred. The pounding in the back of his skull was so, so loud. "...At least you can't fall apart on purpose now." Jayce said quietly. "No more party tricks." Something dripped onto the ground in front of Viktor and his good eye shakily moved up to it. Blood. Jayce was bleeding. He shakily raised his gaze. There was a single open wound on one of Jayce's fingers. His eyes moved to his other hand. Jayce had been wearing a ring and it looked like he'd flicked out a small needle from it. Viktor watched as Jayce held his finger up over the bracelet, the Rune suddenly letting out a feverishly bright glow as the symbol itself seemed to absorb the blood dripped onto it. "...You know you can hold anything together? In any way you want? With anything you want? Isn't that incredible?" Jayce mused. Viktor could only stare up at him from the ground. He didn't feel good. That magic holding him together from the inside. It had made the ache so much worse. No he couldn't even break his skull open to relieve it. He could feel it down the back of his neck and he inhaled shakily as he raised a hand to it. "This isn't... personal, Viktor. I just... I need you here. Not running around the undercity." Jayce said, shrugging as he tipped his head to the side. He watched him with a slightly clenched jaw. "...I'd... been hoping that wouldn't hurt." He muttered to himself with a frown. "You just stitched m-my fucking skeleton together and th-thought it w-wouldn't hurt??" Viktor finally managed in a shaking voice. "Not only are you unbearably s-selfish, but you may be denser than a brick as well. H-How you could have possibly g-gotten into the Academy of Science, let alone graduate, is beyond me!" It would've been long enough that Jayce had graduated school. Viktor glanced up at him with tearful eyes. "...If I had known you to be like this..." He trailed off, inhaling shakily. He couldn't continue with his bitter words. Three seconds of silence. "...Finish the sentence. Say it." Jayce's voice was quiet. Viktor lowered his head, more tears welling up in his eyes. His mouth was parted, but his fists curled up. He... didn't know if he could ever wish death on another person. Not genuinely. Not truly. It just... wasn't in his nature. But good gods, he should've just let Jayce... Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, raising a hand to his head. "...Exactly. You still would've saved me. That heart is too kind." Jayce said quietly, staring down at him. "I owe you my life, Viktor." And why didn't that warrant Jayce letting him go?? What did saving his life mean to Jayce?? Viktor glanced up at him again. His left eye was still blurring, though it seemed to be in time with the pounding in his head. Jayce knelt down in front of him, those golden-brown eyes staring into his. "You're... kind of like a good luck charm. The... lucky reason I'm still here. So I want you close by." Jayce said quietly, looking him over. "These last few years have been stressful. Empty. Unfulfilling." Unfulfilling?? They were in a whole building built for one of Jayce's creations. How much more did he need?? "Y-You just created the Hexgates. How are you n-not satisfied with a successful experiment??" A spark of interest appeared in Jayce's eyes as he tipped his head. "Are you impressed??" He seemed eager now. What, he wanted Viktor's approval?? His praise?? Viktor would've rather set himself on fire than give that to him. He didn't answer and Jayce hesitated before giving a disappointed sigh through his nose. "I don't think you get what I had to do to get this far. I went to parties, galas, places with too many people and too much noise. I'd... left parties and galas with... too many people." Jayce's voice became quiet. "All that unending praise and adoration. All sounded fake. Forced. They're all playing me like a deck of cards, Viktor." Viktor stared at him before scoffing. "Did you expect my sympathy?? That is the world you chose to step into, Jayce. A game of pandering and politics. You wanted the recognition. You wanted the spotlight. Now that you have it, it's nothing but a nuisance? You are unbearable." Viktor inhaled shakily. The side of his body still stung so badly. His left eye hadn't stopped tearing up. "These past few years have been my most fulfilling. I was content. Dare I say I was even enjoying myself. Just for you to come crashing back in, like some higher power has it out for me." Viktor's voice shook. Jayce could only stare back at him and he tipped his head quietly. He asked in a calm voice if there was anything else Viktor wanted to add. It was so calm, yet so condescending that Viktor's shoulders instantly spiked up as he shot him a furious look. "Jayce, this hurts. M-My whole body is stinging..." His voice faltered shakily on the last word. "I can feel the stitching under my skin." Jayce's expression twitched a little and he furrowed his brow. "...It's to be expected. I had to prepare myself to do this as well." He pushed himself back up to his feet. "We should return to my home. You can get to know your new space." Viktor was breathing shakily and he barely managed to stand. It sounded like Jayce had moved from the apartment. Gotten his own place. But the way he said that made Viktor's soul bristle."Do not speak of me like you are bringing home some pet. I will break everything in that house." He stated coldly. Jayce shot him a sharp look. "You've already stitched my skeleton together. I will already never be rid of my headache. When it flares up on my worst nights, I will be sure you hear me screaming." Jayce's face changed a little to something dismayed and uncomfortable. It was gone after another few moments, Jayce turning away. Viktor shakily materialized his cane again. Did he really have no choice but to follow now?? Good gods, he could feel the Rune's magic embedded in his very core. It hurt. Everything hurt and it was far too overwhelming for someone who hadn't felt pain for decades. He inhaled shakily as he moved. Every step hurt more than the last and they'd barely made it out of the building and down the street before Viktor had to stop, leaning against his cane. The first muffled sob escaped him as he raised the back of his fist to his mouth and squeezed his eyes shut. He was vaguely aware of the chain pulling at him before going limp again. Three seconds to wallow. Three more seconds for new tears. Three steps approaching him. "Viktor, you're dead. It can't possibly hurt that much." Jayce sounded doubtful as he spoke in front of him. Viktor would've strangled him with his own two hands if he'd been capable. He hissed that it still felt like string in his damn bones and beneath his damn skin. That every step, he could feel it. Each footstep was worse than the last. "Then be my passenger." Jayce said, shrugging like it was such a simple and obvious fix. Viktor could only stare at him for a moment, wondering what he'd done to deserve this. He stepped forward, Jayce shivering as Viktor disappeared inside of him. He tucked himself away in the corner of Jayce's mind. He could see through the other's eyes if he wanted, watching as Jayce turned and continued moving down the streets. People seemed to be greeting him. Viktor could only watch dully. He glanced over at the thoughts. There were so many Binds, but none of them were stopping him from doing this to Viktor?? Had those urges just formed upon seeing him again?? Viktor remained silent, hugging himself. He could feel Jayce lightly poking at his own thoughts and memories, but he quickly shut it down. A spiked barrier resembling barbed wire formed around him. It gave off a sickly, blue-tinted glow. He felt Jayce retreat and heard the other give a quiet sigh as he seemed to reach the door of a house. Jayce unlocked it and slipped inside before shutting the door again. "You can come out now." He spoke aloud and Viktor only glanced up with dulled eyes. And... what if he didn't? "Viktor?" He felt Jayce give a tug at the barrier. "Viktor, get out of there." Viktor felt another tear run down his face from his twitching left eye. Was it just going to stay like that from now on?? "Viktor!!" Viktor blinked as the entire barrier rattled around him. Yet, he wouldn't move. He wouldn't leave. Jayce only had the power to hold things together. He also didn't have the mental strength to push Viktor out himself. Theoretically, Viktor could just stay here. Somewhere Jayce could not reach him. Somewhere the other couldn't experiment on him. "Viktor, what are you doing?" Now Jayce was starting to sound shaken. No, Jayce had underestimated him again. There was still much he didn't know about the abilities of Viktor's state, that much was obvious. He pushed himself up, moving forwards with the barrier intact around him. He reached out to another group of strings held by a Bind.
And what if I just put the crystal straight into the back of the neck?? Would it forcibly solidify him?? I think it'd be worth a shot.
It terrified him before, but maybe once the crystal is in, he'll be used to it. Maybe the back of the neck wouldn't be the best spot for insertion.
Maybe I need to apply the crystal to him in a more direct manner. If I ever see him again. He wants a body. He just doesn't realize it. I know what he wants.
Will I ever see him again? If I do, I need to keep him this time. I can't let him escape. I can't let him escape me again. I'd break his legs so he can't run. I'd remove his tongue so he can't scream. If only he weren't dead. It would be so much easier.
I just want to show... how... grateful I am. How important he is to me. I owe my life to him. I owe my work to him. I should study him inside and out so I know how to thank him properly.
Breaking things so I can put them back together again. Fascinating. Intriguing. What would it take to deconstruct the dead?? What would I have to do? I'll do it.
Whatever it takes to open him up and see his insides, I'll do it. I'll even do it with my bare hands.
Viktor yanked back his own hands. They were shaking. That... was obsession. Jayce was mistaking obsession for thankfulness and gratitude. He'd been... He'd been considering forcibly solidifying him?? Viktor was sure he would've gotten sick the moment he'd done so. He already felt nauseous now. The good thing was that this group of thoughts was in a Bind. Had Jayce chosen to keep these one restrained, or had the Rune? Jayce sounded like he wanted to pull him apart like a piece of meat. Even without proper skin, Viktor was getting goosebumps. He could still feel Jayce trying to tug and pull at his barrier. "Stop looking at them. I put them in Binds for a reason. I don't want them to surface. I don't need you to see them." Jayce spoke aloud, his voice shaky. He managed to sound both furious and terrified. Viktor reached out again to another group.
He's so noisy. With him being exposed like this, I could easily pierce the skin. The bed would get pretty messy. He's so loud too. Obnoxious. It can't possibly feel that good.
Once I secure funding, I should dispose of him. I could smother him. It would be so easy. It would be so easy to just rob him of breath. He's already asked me to choke him twice, surely this can just be an accident. A tragic accident in the midst of physical passion.
...Don't make me sick. I want to bash his skull open. I want to see the dark contrast against the bed sheets. Do it. Do it. Do it. Do it.
DO IT.
Viktor pulled his hand back. Was that Jayce 'convincing' someone to fund him? Good gods, his thoughts had been feverish. Uncontrolled. It must've been a terrible partner or Jayce just really hadn't been in the mood. Viktor stared around at all the strings. "Viktor! Get out of my head!" Jayce's voice snapped out loud and Viktor gave a small scoff to himself. Or what? Jayce could only pull things together, not apart. Viktor could stay as long as he wanted. He didn't even need to touch anything. Here he could stay, unreachable and safe in the recesses of Jayce's mind....Except he definitely wouldn't. He was going to become bored. He knew this. But not any time soon. He would wait for Jayce to fall asleep. He knew the other would fight tooth and nail to stay awake, but... despite the evidence, Jayce was still only human. At some point, he would eventually have to sleep. Viktor could remain patient until then.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had to admit he was slightly impressed with how long Jayce did manage to fight and stay awake. But in the end, he still lost. In the end, he still slept. And Viktor slipped out of his exhausted body to stand in the rays of the rising sun. He felt Jayce give a shiver as he went, turning to look back at him. All the pain had retreated into a dull ache that covered everywhere his body had smashed into the pavement. Viktor shakily lifted his arm, flinching a little as he felt the strings inside of it. "I... should have... let you drop." He finally said after a moment, feeling the sun shining through his body. He would never wish death on another person, but that didn't mean he didn't regret saving him. And yet... He was sure that if he'd been given the chance... he would save him again. Jayce was right. His heart was too kind. Jayce had fallen asleep slumped back against the couch. Viktor's eyes fell to the chain. How was he going to break it?? He remembered Singed saying that it was usually a weapon imbued with blood, but Viktor's blood would just fizzle away. And Jayce had fucking stitched his bones together. He still couldn't believe it. He still felt nauseous. He turned to look out the window at the sun. Were Jinx and Silco worried about him?? Had Marcus been able to tell Silco? Maybe they couldn't do anything, but he wanted them to know he hadn't left willingly. His shoulders sank. He'd been planning on playing cards with Sevika once he and Silco returned from taking Jinx spray painting. Viktor's chest ached. As he scanned over the house, his eyes landed on something he recognized. The box. That box carved with Runes. The one Jayce had brought home the day Viktor had left. It was buried beneath piles and piles of papers. Viktor glanced back at Jayce's sleeping form before moving forward. Three steps forward. Three taps of his cane. The lid was slightly ajar and Viktor could smell something... musty. It was faint, but it still made him crinkle his nose ever so slightly. He reached out, managing to solidify his hand just enough to push the lid off a little more. Just enough to look inside. It was... It was empty. Viktor furrowed his brow. Whatever Jayce had brought back to the apartment in it was gone. He paused for a moment before turning. He made his way back to Jayce's sleeping form, tipping his head. He moved forward, slipping into his body once again and making him twitch. Inside, Viktor wasn't looking for thoughts this time. While the thoughts manifested themselves as strings, the memories were different. The memories manifested themselves as orbs. And Viktor wasn't seeing any Binds on those. He furrowed his brow. He bumped into one closest to him and it expanded into a screen. He almost ignored it until he heard soft tweeting. He glanced up in confusion. It appeared to be a memory from when Jayce was a child. He was kneeling in front of what appeared to be an injured bird. Its wing was awkwardly bent and he watched as Jayce's small hands stretched out. He was wearing the leather bracelet. The Rune. He started to pull at the wing, making the bird peck at him and its chirping became more panicked. Jayce's fingers froze and Viktor could hear whispers. Do it. Do it. Do it. Do it. There was another several moments of silence before Viktor heard Jayce's soft voice speak, sounding a little strangled. "No." He released the bird's wing, pulling his shaky hand back. Viktor watched as Jayce reached out, carefully scooping up the bird with a gentleness Viktor would've never expected of him. Jayce turned and seemed to start running back towards a blurry adult figure. "This bird is hurt!" Viktor furrowed his brow, watching the memory retreat back into the orb. So Jayce had... always had these violent thoughts. Ever since he was a child?? Viktor's hands were tight on his cane. He turned away from it before squeezing his eyes shut. He pictured that box. He opened his eyes and watched as several orbs started to float towards him like they were being magnetized. What had Jayce used that box for?? The leading orb was fizzling the loudest. Viktor stretched up a hand, holding it for a moment before allowing it to expand. Jayce was sitting in the ruined apartment, though the box seemed to have been something he was salvaging from it. He'd broken through the boarded up door. He was using a screwdriver to carve Runes into the box. The screen retreated. Viktor didn't need to know where he'd gotten it. He wanted to know what was in it. He released that orb and moved to the next one. Jayce was... Viktor paused. That was the river beneath the Bridge of Progress. Why was Jayce down on the river bank?? He was carrying the box, seeming to be searching. His eyes finally raised and he stopped. Viktor felt a chill as he saw what he was staring at. There was an unmarked stone ahead of him. An old, withered cane was bound to it. Viktor could only stare for a moment. Was that...? His eyes went wide in horror as Jayce knelt down next to it, starting to dig his hands into the dry dirt. What was he doing?? Good gods, what was he doing?? That couldn't be... Was that where he'd been buried? He had never even known what had become of his body. If this was truly his grave, what was Jayce doing?? The screen shrank back down into an orb again. Viktor's hands were shaking. He reached out to the next one. Upon opening it, he wrinkled his nose and looked away. Jayce was becoming sick. He was still next to the river. He heard him panting as he made a small noise of disgust. "Only a piece. Fuck. Only a piece." Jayce kept repeating to himself. He seemed like he was trying to build up the courage for something. "I just need..." His voice became strangled and Viktor's whole body went cold as Jayce turned back. Good gods, that was his body. Still broken. Still in uniform. Decomposed. He heard Jayce gag. He watched as he reached down, slipping his fingers under the body's skeletal hand. It detached from the arm, proving to be broken at the wrist. Jayce gagged one more time. The orb retreated and Viktor had to take a step back. Jayce had... defaced his grave?? Desecrated his corpse?? Viktor didn't even realize he was crying at first. What had Jayce done?? What had he done with that piece of him??Viktor started to search around the orbs frantically. However, when he found the one that was fizzling the loudest, it had an angry red tint to it. Viktor was slightly hesitant before reaching out to it. The burning that was sent up his arm caused a scream to erupt from him. He could only stare at the orb in shock. He'd never had a memory reject him. Especially one of Jayce's. What was he doing?? Viktor's breathing was shaky. He didn't understand. Why would Jayce do this?? What was he trying to accomplish?? He backed up, startling as he ran into another orb. He flinched as it expanded before hearing his own voice, speaking quietly. It was... Viktor could only stare. That was their first meeting. Jayce was explaining the start of Hextech to him. Viktor could see the gleam of interest in his own eyes. This only seemed to excite Jayce. He's interested. He's listening? He's listening. Jayce sounded so excited and relieved. It was quiet for a few moments. He saved me. Why did he do that? Jayce sounded curious. Where did he come from?? He's... He's actually listening to me. Jayce was quiet for another few moments. Will he stay? Or will he leave like everyone else? I need to be normal about this. I have to be normal about this. Jayce, please for the love of the gods, be normal about this. Jayce sounded desperate as he spoke to himself. There was more silence. I don't know if I can. Viktor saw himself smile. Fuck. The orb shut and Viktor could only stare at it quietly. Jayce... had actually tried to be casual. He'd tried to not let his impulses get the best of him. Was Jayce always struggling with his thoughts like this?? Since before they'd met?? Since he'd been a child? Good gods, what had happened recently to make him lose such control of them?? Viktor reached back out to the memory, letting it play again. Had it been him?? Had Jayce been controlling himself up until that point? Masquerading a normal appearance? Putting on an act? Viktor furrowed his brow as the memory retreated back into the orb again. He didn't understand it. He didn't understand him. Where had the divergence happened?? He jumped as another orb ran into him, seeming like it had been magnetized straight to him. He released the first one before reaching out. The screen opened up and the scene that showed was familiar to Viktor. He'd seen it before. The snowstorm. Jayce was on his knees. He was huddled next to the form of his collapsed mother, holding the glowing blue Rune in his mittens. He was staring at it and Viktor could swear Jayce wasn't even blinking. Get up. Get up. Get up. Leave her. Leave her. Leave her. Jayce whispered that he couldn't and the urges only seemed to get stronger. Louder. He saw Jayce glanced back at his mother. Her chest was faintly rising and falling. Leave her. Get up. GET UP. He watched as Jayce practically staggered to his feet. There was a small hiccup and he started to crunch his way forward through the snow as the scene became blurry with tears. It collapsed back into the orb and it felt freezing cold against Jayce's fingers. He gave a shaky tremble. Was it that Rune?? Had it been the Rune? Or had it been the magic it was connected to that had started giving Jayce impulses and urges? Viktor's whole body was frozen up. He released the orb with shaky hands. Was he... ever going to escape this man?? With urges like these?? How long until he stopped holding himself back?? With his brilliant mind and the power of his inventions, Jayce could easily... He could turn into a nightmare for everyone. Viktor wasn't sure what to do. He finally closed his eyes and stepped back. He slipped out of Jayce's body, ignoring the shuddering gasp the other let out in his sleep. Viktor could only stare forward for a moment. Three seconds of silence. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds of silence. Viktor froze up, his body giving a shudder.
Three knocks at the door.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor glanced over at Jayce, his brow furrowed. Who could possibly be coming to see him? He scoffed quietly. Three more knocks on the door. Louder. Viktor hesitated before making his way over to the door. He reached out, wondering if he'd be able to flick the lock while he was this light. He didn't even know who it was, but... To be quite fair, he wasn't the one in danger. He reached out, starting to try and twist the lock. He could see the doorknob giving small flicks. He was becoming frustrated and he finally swore, his hand solidifying just enough to flick the lock open. He moved away from the door after a moment, holding his cane. He really wasn't sure who was about to just walk into Jayce's house. The door suddenly swung open and Viktor's eyes widened. "Sevika!" The woman froze up as she saw him, her eyes wide from under the cloak she was wearing. She slowly pulled back her arm, clearly having been ready to grab whoever opened the door by the throat. Based on her face... he didn't look good. Sevika moved over, furrowing her brow. "Fuck..." She whispered, her eyes seeming to scan over the side of his face. She lifted her head, seeming to take in the house before her glowing eyes narrowed on Jayce. It seemed like she'd just taken a dose. Once she seemed to process that he was asleep, she turned her attention back to Viktor. "What did he do to you?" "Besides the abduction?" Viktor raised his wrist, shaking the chain. His gaze fell to the floor. "...He bound my bones so I couldn't break apart. Silco is aware I am chained again?" Sevika paused and Viktor furrowed his brow, his hands tightening on his cane. "Marcus... Marcus let him know, didn't he?" Sevika finally replied that he was well aware actually. Viktor didn't understand her behavior until he heard footsteps. Silco moved around Sevika, who took a step back. Viktor was in absolute shock for a moment as the other approached him. "Silco! It is dangerous for you to be up here! During the day and out in the open, no less!" Silco shushed him firmly, reaching out and making a gesture for Viktor to turn his head to the side. Viktor hesitated before doing so. Sevika made another face behind Silco before turning away, shutting the door. "...It looks quite bad, doesn't it?" Silco's fingers hovered over his cheek. The dismay in his eyes almost overshadowed his forcibly calm expression as he pulled his hand back. "...We can see the Binds beneath your skin." Silco let out a sigh through his nose as he pinched the bridge of it and squeezed his eyes shut. "...I shouldn't have sent you up here." Viktor replied that he'd had no way of knowing that Jayce would be there. His eyes trailed to the ground as Silco spoke again. "Does it hurt, Viktor?" "Quite a lot. Every bit of it." Viktor answered. "It has numbed down since the night before, but it's still..." He let out a shaky breath, squeezing his eyes shut. "There is an ache. I can feel the Binds when I move. The headache is worse than ever." He raised a shaky hand up to the back of his head. He finally glanced up again. "Silco, you are a wanted man. You cannot be this careless. Walking around Piltover in broad daylight!" Viktor couldn't believe him. He could see a knife in the sheath around Silco's leg. Good gods, he'd come ready to fight. "I was informed one of my closest acquaintances had been chained by the very man he feared. That is more than enough reason for me to travel to Piltover." Silco answered firmly. His voice quieted. "You never returned. Jinx was quite upset, I had no answers and Marcus did not inform me until later of what had happened. Jinx still doesn't know where you've gone." Silco did seem frustrated with himself. "I should've taken his presence into consideration. Now he's... disfigured you." The way his voice strained did make Viktor's chest ache. He knew that the idea of anyone close to Silco becoming disfigured like he was intensely scared him. He glanced down at the chain before sighing. "What needs to be done?" "A weapon imbued with his blood. It must be me or him who wields it. Perhaps I can do so while possessing him, but he needs to be awake. I cannot move the body until he is. Otherwise, we must wait until nightfall, when it is dark." Viktor replied, his brow furrowed. "Why don't we just kill him? That'll break it, I'm sure." Sevika said, her metal claws clicking against one another in irritation. Silco raised a hand, waving her off. "The Hexgates are of his creation. He is likely in good graces with the Council, not to mention under their eye. If his body is discovered here, the Council will surely blame Zaun." He replied, his eyes narrowed. Sevika gave an annoyed sigh, turning away again. "I am just as displeased, I assure you." He was watching Jayce in absolute distaste. "...Let's take him with us." What? Viktor's eyes widened as he glanced up at him. "Will they also not blame Zaun if he disappears?" Viktor questioned. Silco replied that the Enforcers associated with him would be able to cover up a disappearance much easier than a murder. That Marcus had told him that Jayce was seen as 'aloof' and 'reclusive'. That they may even think he'd disappeared somewhere on his own. Viktor paused before nodding. They were truly going to kidnap Jayce? Take him to the undercity? "If we can wake him just for a moment, I could possess him. He would seem as if he is following willingly." Viktor said, glancing over at Silco. Viktor only felt a pit in his stomach. "...Should we take him under and break the Bind, will you-" "We will keep him far from you, Viktor." Silco already seemed to anticipate his question. "I'm quite sure Sevika wouldn't mind... watching him." Sevika gave a soft scoff, her eyes falling dangerously on Jayce's sleeping form. Viktor furrowed his brow. He finally stated they would have to separate Jayce from the Rune as well. "The Rune? That can be done." Silco had his hands behind his back as he glanced over at Jayce. "I am sure the doctor wouldn't mind studying it." Viktor paused before raising a brow and asking in a flat voice if Silco really thought he could trust Singed with this kind of magic. Silco seemed to think it over before sighing. "...No, I don't." He muttered. "We can keep it locked away somewhere. He won't keep it. And he won't keep you." He added to Viktor. The relief that swept through Viktor's chest was near overwhelming. "The first order of business will be breaking the Bind once we return." Viktor turned his head away, nodding. He could only stare at the ground for a moment, his hands shaking on his cane. "Don't cry now, bookworm. We came as fast as we could." Sevika stated, raising a brow at him. Viktor immediately replied in a sharp tone that he wasn't going to, shooting her a look. "Good. Because I still need to kick your ass in cards." Viktor paused before replying that she'd lost the last two times. And that she'd lost her temper. "Sure, but objects go right through you, so I don't get why that matters." Sevika rolled her eyes and Viktor gave a small scoff of amusement. Silco shook his head between them, seeming unamused. He gestured to Jayce, furrowing his brow. "Is he always such a heavy sleeper?" He questioned, clearly baffled as to how Jayce could sleep through two strangers having a conversation in his house. Viktor glanced back before saying he'd been possessing him for hours prior and Jayce had been furiously staying awake to try and force him out. "Ah, you tired him out." Viktor rolled his eyes, saying it had taken nearly twelve hours, but he'd done it. "Ah, what a shame we'll have to wake him then. Viktor, please be ready." Sevika grinned as she moved around Silco. She stood in front of Jayce while Viktor moved behind. "I am going to have to walk in this body, please no serious injuries." Viktor stated, raising a brow up at Sevika, who rolled her eyes. She raised her metal hand, opening up all her claws as wide as they would go before slamming the palm straight into the center of Jayce's chest. That seemed to wake him immediately and his eyes were wide as he broke out in coughing, immediately grabbing her metal wrist with his hands. Viktor moved forward, slipping into his body and feeling it shiver. He shoved Jayce down into his subconscious again before taking in a wheezing breath. He groaned before shooing Sevika's hand from him. Sevika pulled her arm back and Viktor's sternum ached. "Ugh." He sat up, raising a hand to his chest. Sevika stated that she hadn't even hit him that hard, though her joking was hesitant. She was waiting for some sign it was Viktor. "And yet I struggle to breathe. The moment I have lungs again." Viktor replied flatly. Sevika's brows shot up in surprise before she gave a snort. "That voice isn't doing that accent any favors, huh?" Viktor rolled his eyes, stating that he was more than aware of how bad it sounded. He pushed himself to his feet. Jayce's body felt exhausted, but it was up and running. He furrowed his brow, glancing over at Silco. The other clearly didn't like seeing Jayce's face, but some of the tenseness left his shoulders when Viktor's accent jutted through his voice. "We must go quickly. His body is exhausted. It could pass out with me in it." Viktor said, already moving towards the door. He reached out, pulling down the cloak from next to the door. He slipped it on. Sevika replied for him not to worry as she came up next to him. That if the body passed out, she could just drag it behind them by the leg and everyone would think it was just her dealing with another junkie. "You just want a reason to drag him across the ground." Viktor replied, waving his hand at her dismissively. Sevika replied that she didn't see a problem with it. Silco turned back to the door and Viktor paused before moving forward. At least with Jayce's bigger body, it would be easier to keep Silco hidden. They had both... Viktor still couldn't believe Silco had come topside. He and Sevika were simultaneously keeping Silco hidden from view as Viktor opened the door. He moved out into the street, the other two following. Considering Silco's shady business, he had unfortunately bore witness to a few kidnappings. This would no doubt be their easiest and calmest one. "I don't know how well either of you would've handled the situation if it had been him that answered the door." Viktor commented, glancing over at them as he walked. Sevika replied that she'd just needed a clear shot at his neck and Silco would've known where to stab to make him pass out. Viktor glanced over at Silco. "...You do not usually dirty your hands." He noted, raising a brow. "Sometimes it is necessary." Silco replied calmly. "I avoid it as much as I can, but occasionally, it is inevitable." Viktor felt like Silco really could've just let Sevika incapacitate Jayce. He asked if Silco had just wanted a reason to stab him and Silco was quiet for a moment. "...I don't believe I'll confirm or deny that." Viktor gave a quiet chuckle. "I apologize we did not come to fetch you sooner. Marcus warned against it. Despite not knowing you were going to be there, he says that Jayce seemed have been quite prepared for you. He was worried that Jayce would also be prepared for someone to come get you, but it appears not." He glanced over. "I take it the reason he can see and hear you may have something to do with this crystal embedded in his ear." Viktor nodded before lifting his hands and showing off the gloves with the Hex Crystals. "He was able to grab me, using these. These are the energy sources of his devices. He said they are made up of the same magic as I am." Viktor lowered his hands before giving a sigh. "And I am still not quite sure of this claim on my form." They were approaching the Bridge of Progress again. Viktor paused and slowed to a stop as he stared off of it, his eyes trailing along the riverbank below. Sevika glanced back, saying they had to keep moving. She seemed to pause as she saw the expression Viktor was making. Silco furrowed his brow, moving over to him. "...My grave is somewhere along this shoreline. I did not learn this until recently. I am unsure why they would've chosen such a strange place to bury me..." Viktor's voice was quiet and hushed. Strained. "I never knew what became of me after my drop." "...We must keep moving, Viktor. Dwelling will do you no good." There was another tone beneath Silco's words. Pained. Familiar. It seemed... Silco had problems with this bridge as well. Viktor nodded, turning and following him. They crossed back over into Zaun and Viktor could already feel Jayce's body being weighed down. He could feel the exhaustion creeping into his muscles. Despite this, he kept pace with Sevika and Silco. Unfortunately, he couldn't make it much farther, soon staggering and coming to a stop. They were so close to The Last Drop. He really couldn't make it any farther? His legs were shaking. "Viktor?" "The body has exhausted itself. If I continue, it will drop." Viktor replied, glancing up at both of them. Sevika rolled her eyes. "Let him go. It's not too far for me to drag him." She stated, coming back over. "It's the easiest kidnapping we've ever had." She glanced back at Silco, who nodded. Viktor finally stepped backwards out of Jayce's body and it collapsed so fast that it made Viktor jump. "You weren't kidding." Sevika sounded slightly taken back. She reached out, grabbing under one of Jayce's arms before dragging him alongside her. He was completely limp. Viktor had to take a moment to steady himself before following. The chain was still connecting him to the Rune on Jayce's wrist. When they reached the intersection containing The Last Drop, Viktor was a bit relieved that it was daytime. The Last Drop had started gathering attention during the nighttime hours. People would treat it like a club and Silco had been considering just biting the bullet and advertising it as one. During the day, it was calm and deserted.Sevika moved up, shouldering the door open and dragging Jayce inside. Silco paused before turning to Viktor. "I really do apologize." He finally said. Viktor blinked before shaking his head. "You both came to get me. Quite quickly, I might add. I can forgive the oversight." Viktor replied, managing a small grin. Silco seemed assured by this before nodding towards the door. "Let us break that Bind. And I will see to it that this man is given the... proper treatment."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The time Viktor spent waiting for Jayce to wake up felt like years. They'd tied him to the corner of the office, his hands restrained. Silco had been in and out, as had Sevika. They were keeping Jinx out, though Silco had assured Viktor that Jinx knew he was safe with them once more. Viktor fiddled with the chain sticking out of his wrist. He was sitting on the couch, facing Jayce. They would allow him one chance to talk to Jayce to get him to break the Bind willingly. Jayce was completely collapsed against the wall. Viktor gave a small sigh, looking him over. He paused as Jayce's leg finally twitched. Viktor slipped off the couch, moving over to him with soft taps of his cane. They'd taken the gloves from Jayce and Viktor finally sank down to sit in front of him, laying his cane neatly across his lap. The chain was stretched between them. Jayce inhaled shakily and he flinched as he managed to lift his head. His golden-brown eyes scanned over his environment before landing on Viktor. Instantly, he stiffened. "You are quite the deep sleeper, Jayce." He commented quietly. "You're a criminal." Jayce's voice was instant, shaking and hushed. "V-Viktor, I expected so much better of you." Viktor paused, staring at him. "Working for Silco??" Jayce sounded genuinely upset with him. Viktor wasn't sure whether to laugh or not. He glanced at the ground before replying that he was no criminal. Simply a messenger. "For a chem-baron." Jayce's voice shook again and Viktor glanced up. "You've done much worse and much more horrifying things than him, Jayce. Your actions are not negated simply because the person you did them to is no longer alive. Especially if I'm still here." Viktor stretched a hand up to the side of his face. "I have never heard of a chem-baron stitching someone's skeleton together and making them move around with it." Jayce started to open his mouth to argue. "I have yet to hear of a chem-baron... defacing a grave and desecrating someone's rotted body." Jayce immediately froze up, staring at him. Viktor's shoulders were sunken. "You think you are disappointed in me? You ransacked my corpse. I told you before that I did not know where my final resting place was and you did? You went there and..." Viktor closed his eyes, his hands shaking as he held his cane. "Must you always try to break things apart??" Jayce could only stare at him, his mouth parted. He seemed like he desperately wanted to say something, but he wouldn't. "You always struggle with the same thoughts. The same urges. Breaking. Ripping. Killing. Every single one of your violent urges involves tearing things away from one another. And, yet you are stuck with a Binding Rune. Only able to put things back together." Viktor's voice was strained. "I looked around your head. Your thoughts, your memories. These Binds are no good for you. This Rune is no good for you. I think it wants you to use it, so it influences you to destroy." Jayce paused, staring at him with wide eyes. Viktor's eyes scanned him over. "Can't you see that??" Viktor could see something. He could see fear in Jayce's eyes. Uncertainty. He paused before placing his cane to the side. He moved forward and Jayce instantly pressed himself back against the wall as Viktor came close to him. Viktor scanned him over, seeing the slightest tint on his ears. That was... interesting. His eyes moved back to Jayce's. "...I see that look. You know I'm right, but you won't admit it. Or maybe you know I'm onto something. Haven't you ever thought about it??" Jayce's breathing had sped up. He squeezed his eyes shut and Viktor could only wonder what he was feeling. What he was hearing. What the urges were. What they were demanding. How loud they were. "What do you want, Jayce?? Vocalize." He stated firmly. Jayce shook his head. "Jayce. Tell me." "I want to rip your stitches out one by one with my own hands and hear you scream while I do it. I want to pull you apart, bit by bit. I want to spread you out across the floor like a mural and see every individual part of you." Jayce stated, his eyes opening up. "I want to feel your blood on my fingers. I-I want to taste your flesh on my tongue. I..." He gagged a little and Viktor stared at him. "I want to know what you taste like. In a very physical, very literal, and very bloody sense. Even if I know it's not possible." He paused as Viktor spoke again, asking him why. "I-I don't know." Viktor narrowed his eyes and Jayce's brow furrowed into a glare. "I-I don't know!" Viktor replied that he did. "I don't! Viktor, I don't know!!" "Except you have a theory, do you not?? You have always had theories! What is it??" Viktor demanded, his gaze not leaving Jayce's. "You have always glossed over this topic before or you have made a joke of it, but I am serious this time. What do you think is wrong with you, Jayce?? What is it?!" He watched as Jayce's glare faltered. The other's gaze was filling with fear again. Panic. "What is your theory?? Does it match my words??" Jayce could only stare at him. "You do not have to admit I am right. You don't have to say another word. A head shake or a nod. Does your theory match my words??" Those golden-brown eyes bore into his again. Three seconds of eye contact. Three seconds of silence. Jayce gave a small nod, a strangled breath leaving his throat. "It's the Rune. It's the Rune that amplifies your need to destroy." Jayce squeezed his eyes shut before stating that he needed this Rune. "You don't. You don't, Jayce. You've already set Hextech in motion. You know how to form more Hex Crystals." Jayce's arms were trembling from their restrained position behind his back. His shoulder gave a small twitch. "Vocalize." "I-I want to pluck out your eyes and keep them in a jar. I want to do the same with each of your fingers. Just to have them. Just to keep them. Maybe just take your whole head off just to have. Just a permanent memento of the only person who listened to me. The person who saved me." A slightly feverish tone had crept into Jayce's voice. "I want to dig my nails into your flesh and my teeth into your throat. I want you to say my name until your tongue is bloody." He stopped himself, keeping his eyes shut before turning his head away. He had slowly been becoming more disheveled over the course of their conversation. Viktor was getting to him. He wasn't sure what the result of that would be, but he was getting to him. He stated that he needed Jayce to break the Bind. Jayce's eyes snapped open, meeting his. "I can't. I can't, you'll leave again. You'll leave me again." He didn't sound panicked. He sounded angry. Scathing. His tone had changed. "You can't leave. Not again. I can't let you leave again." "...I won't leave. You're in the undercity now. My home with my people. As long as you are here, I will be here. But you have to let me go or they will forcibly break the Bind and lock you away from me." Viktor told him. "They will torture you. There is no telling how you will leave this place, if you ever do. But if you are compliant and you listen, things will go better." Jayce could only stare at him before whispering that he was talking like a criminal. "Says the one who just said he wants to pull my flesh apart with his bare hands? There are worse things than being a hostage, I suppose." Viktor's eyes were narrowed. "Jayce, put aside that ego and listen to me. If you want to see me so badly, you must cooperate. You must let me go now if you want to see me again." He could see the conflict in Jayce's eyes. The battle between his urges and his ego. His emotions caught in the crossfire. Viktor paused as Jayce spoke again. "I-I need a weapon. A slicing or stabbing weapon." He managed quietly. "A-And I need to be unrestrained." Viktor stared at him quietly. "I can undo your restraints... but I'm going to take control of your arms." He said, Jayce glancing up at him. He could see that faint spark of excitement in Jayce's eyes. Right. He'd almost forgotten how much the other loved it. Was that why he hadn't said anything about Viktor possessing his body all the way down to the undercity? It must've felt good. Viktor crinkled his nose a bit as he moved back. He'd... forgotten what a freak Jayce was about it. He used his cane to push himself to his feet. He made his way through the dim office, pulling over the blade that had been left on Silco's desk. He brought it back over, laying it in front of Jayce. He moved to the side. "Scoot forward." He stated. Jayce hesitated, staring down at the blade. He could see emotions flying through his eyes. "Jayce." The other's eyes snapped up to him before quickly averting. Jayce scoot himself forward best he could. Viktor knelt behind him on his knees. He placed his cane aside before reaching out. His slender fingers easily undid the knot and the second the rope came loose, Viktor leaned forward, his arms slipping into Jayce's. "Mmh." Jayce made a small, muffled noise as Viktor flexed his fingers, making sure he still had control. He reached out and scooped up the knife. He asked what needed to be done and Jayce hesitated. Viktor could feel the other's heart pounding. "The blade has to, uh, it has to be... coated in my, uh, my b-blood." Jayce's voice almost instantly held regret. Viktor paused. He stated for Jayce to look away. Jayce quickly turned his head to the side, Viktor leaned over his shoulder. He lifted Jayce's hand, firmly grabbing the blade and starting to squeeze. He instantly felt it start cutting into his fingers and palm. It stung and he heard Jayce let out a shaking swear. Viktor squeezed tighter and he felt that first trickle down his wrist. He quickly released his grip. The chain was dangling beneath both of Jayce's hands. They were both attached to each other by opposite wrists, so the chain now hung between Jayce's hands like handcuffs. Viktor held up Jayce's sliced open hand, carefully running the blade over the bleeding wounds. "Mmh." Jayce bit back another noise, though this one sounded more pained. The blade was soon coated in Jayce's blood and Jayce's whole body was shaking. Viktor didn't even have to look to know that Jayce's eyes were squeezed shut. They'd made a mess. It was staining Jayce's sleeves, the handle of the blade and even the floor beneath them. Viktor angled the blade before plunging it downwards. He felt a small jolt of relief slip through his chest as the chain snapped almost instantly. As it started to fizzle away, he let out a small exhale. Free. Free again. Jayce was still trembling. Viktor paused before pulling Jayce's arms back to hug himself. His blood started to stain his upper sleeve. Viktor blinked, able to see Jayce's eyelids twitching madly, even with shut eyes. "Jayce. Vocalize." "I can feel the blood seeping across my skin through the fabric. I-It's making me nauseous." Jayce finally spoke. He did genuinely look exhausted still. His hands were shaking, even with Viktor still in control of them. Jayce's face seemed pale. Viktor prompted him to keep talking, seeing that his mouth was still parted. "I-I want to... maul... you for hurting me. I want to hurt you. I want to... I want to taste you. And eat you alive. I want..." Jayce gave a small gag. "I want to taste flesh. Blood." Viktor paused before tipping his head. He certainly had an idea, but he wasn't sure if it was quite how Jayce worked. Jayce had continued to talk and sputter, vocalizing more horrifying urges and he suddenly fell completely silent as he felt Viktor raising Jayce's injured hand up to his face. Jayce had started to open his eyes, but flinched back. "V-Viktor." Viktor stated for him to open his mouth. "Viktor." "Do it." Viktor's voice was soft, but firm. Jayce startled a little. He let out a shaky breath before opening his mouth. "Tongue." Slowly, Jayce's tongue slipped out and Viktor carefully drew Jayce's bleeding hand down it. The other's whole body let out a violent shiver. Once he'd had Jayce clean the excess blood from his fingers, he tipped his head. Jayce was wide-eyed, his ears completely flushed. He looked like he couldn't believe he'd just done that. He was panting weakly. Viktor... wasn't sure why he'd done that either. He didn't know. Had it satiated Jayce's supposed bloodlust at all? He'd fallen awfully quiet.He paused as he felt that heaviness suddenly sweep through his arms. Really? "How are you still exhausted, Jayce?" He paused at Jayce's rigidness. All of a sudden, his whole body when limp and Viktor startled, pulling his arms from Jayce's body as the other passed out. "...Good gods." He was admittedly a little bothered by what they'd just done, but... Viktor didn't know. He felt like he wasn't as bothered as he... should've been. Viktor watched as Jayce slumped onto his side. Viktor was getting through to him. He had to be. He had to be.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had propped Jayce back up against the wall when he heard the door open. He paused and glanced back, seeing Silco raise a brow. "...He's bled all over my floor." He sounded slightly displeased by this as he shut the door behind him. He stood with his hands clasped behind his back. As he looked Jayce over, a small hum escaped his throat. "Viktor, I do truly think we both could benefit from you joining me officially. You seem... gifted in... interrogation." Viktor shook his head, saying that wasn't what it had been."Doing deliveries for you has brought me enough trouble. I gave my answer before, Silco. I would like to be involved in your... affairs as little as possible." Viktor answered, shooting a stern look back at him. Silco gave a small sigh, rolling his eyes before moving forward and kneeling down. He gestured to where the chain would've been. "He broke it willingly. I just had to speak to him, I told you. That obsession he has with me... unfortunately it can be utilized." Viktor said, scanning Jayce over again. Silco made a small, fascinated noise. "We must remove the Rune. All it does is amplify his violent thoughts. I fear he'll endanger us the moment he can no longer control if he acts on them or not." Viktor watched as Silco reached out. He removed the bracelet from Jayce's wrist before holding it up. He asked what Viktor had learned about it. "I believe it to be malicious in nature. At the very least, for Jayce, it increases his violent impulses and he struggles not to act on them. It wants him to rip things apart so it can put them back together." Viktor reached out, brushing away a piece of hair that had fallen into Jayce's face. "You believe this crystal to be... alive?" Silco cast him a doubtful glance. Viktor shook his head, saying that wasn't quite the right word for it. "Purpose-driven. It wants to be used. It casts an influence that allows it to achieve this goal. I believe, with enough time away from it, Jayce could... recover." Silco blinked, replying that Viktor had been scared of this man. "Because I could not understand him before. I think... I could get through to him now. He will listen to me. He is afraid of this place. Of this circumstance, even if his pride will never allow him to admit it. I am the only familiar face he knows here. The only one that will hesitate to cause him harm." Silco raised a brow at him before his gaze moved back to Jayce. "You want to keep him with you?" He questioned, clearly curious about this. Viktor paused, glancing over at him. He replied that he wasn't quite sure how. "I own property all over the city. I'm sure I could set you up somewhere. However, it would have to be close enough that Jinx and I can come see you. And he... must be contained enough that he will not hurt Jinx. If there is even a scratch on her..." Silco trailed off and Viktor nodded, understanding perfectly. Three seconds of silence. "Viktor. Will you be... alright living with this man again? You seemed quite shaken before." Was that worry he heard in Silco's voice? A smile pulled at Viktor's lips. He replied that Silco didn't have to sound so frightened. "It is not fright." Silco shot him a firm glance as well before sighing and looking back at Jayce. "Simply... worry. For a..." He trailed off and Viktor glanced over, watching his jaw clench. "A close acquaintance of mine."Viktor chuckled. "You almost said it that time." He commented lightly, earning an annoyed shooing motion from Silco. They both paused as they heard a commotion outside. It sounded like Sevika was arguing with someone. There was a loud thump and Sevika's muffled swearing. The door flung open and Sevika could be heard yelling for a brat to get back there as Jinx came into the room. For a moment, panic filled Viktor's chest until he remembered. Jayce was incapacitated and Jinx wouldn't be able to see Viktor's... horrifying state. He would have to find a way to break these stitches. He would likely need Jayce's help again."Jinx! You were to stay outside!" Silco exclaimed, pushing himself to his feet as he tucked the Rune and the bracelet into his vest pocket. Jinx seemed to be looking around the room with a furrowed brow before her eyes widened."He's back! Viktor's back! He's here!" She exclaimed. She peered around Silco before instantly scrunching backwards as she saw Jayce's bloodied form. "Ew, who's that??" She didn't seem too fazed by it anymore. Viktor glanced back at Jayce, his eyes falling to his cut open hand. He reached out to it, placing his fingers on Jayce's upturned palm. He tipped his head before sliding them forward and pushing ever so slightly into the gash. He startled as he heard Jayce take in a shaky breath, the tips of his ears tinting again. Viktor pulled his hand back. He paused, feeling tingling across his fingers. He held his hand up, Jayce's blood having stained his fingertips. He hesitated before reaching up, slipping his fingers beneath his skin. He hooked his finger under one of the stitches, causing pain to ripple through his body. Good gods, this was going to be... "Silco." He spoke aloud and Silco paused his scolding of Jinx to look back at him. "I need you and Jinx to leave. I... may be able to break the stitches, but it's going to be..." He trailed off, already feeling the burning in the corners of his eyes. "Viktor, we can surely find a less painful way to remove them." Silco stated, his brow furrowing. Jinx paused, trying to look around him, even if she wasn't able to see him. She asked in a slightly panicked voice what they were removing. "What's wrong with him?? What happened??" Jinx only seemed to become distressed and Silco turned, saying they had to leave for a moment while Viktor dealt with an injury. "How'd he get injured?? Did someone hurt him?!" Her eyes moved to Jayce and narrowed in a glare. "Did he hurt him?!" Silco instantly took her by the hand, saying Viktor was going to deal with something. He opened the door and glanced back at Viktor, who nodded. Silco guided Jinx out before shutting the door. Obviously he wouldn't be able to muffle everything, but at least... they wouldn't have to watch. His finger was still hooked under the first stitch and he inhaled shakily. He squeezed his eyes shut and finally yanked his finger upwards. The pain that came with the yanking feeling drowned out the snapping noise. It rendered Viktor blind and he opened his mouth, a horrifying scream escaping him. He couldn't stop the tears and blood that erupted down his face. He could feel the stitching fading and the side of his head fell in with a crunch. He was left curled up, trembling as he stared at the ground. No. No, he could still... feel it. He raised a hand to his shoulder. He had one there. His hand slid up to his neck. Another one there. He... needed a moment. He heard heavy breathing and glanced to the side. Jayce had been shocked awake, though his eyes were only half-lidded as he stared at Viktor. He had gone pale and he squeezed his eyes shut, fighting back a gag. Viktor reached out, placing his fingers on his hand. "What are you doing??" Jayce could barely mumble the words and Viktor slid his fingers into the gash again, going a little deeper this time. "Hah!" Jayce's noise was startling. It didn't sound like it was entirely pain and Viktor jerked his hand back with wide eyes as he stared at him. Jayce's ears had gone tinted and he had tears in his eyes. "What are you doing??" The question seemed much more strangled this time. "I-I must break the Binds you put on me. They cause pain to my body. A feeling I am no longer supposed to have." Viktor answered in a strained voice. He hooked his bloodied fingers under a stitch on his shoulder. Jayce started to answer before Viktor yanked the stitch. He wasn't sure how bad the shriek was that left his throat, but it left it burning. He heard Jayce's heavy breathing and glanced over through teary eyes once his body had numbed again. Jayce had his eyes squeezed shut, his face pale. "There is one more to break. But you know that." "D-Don't. Don't. I'm going to be sick." Jayce replied shakily, refusing to open his eyes. Viktor narrowed his tearful eyes at him. "You did this to me." Viktor stated. He reached out and pushed his fingers into the gash one more time. Much more harsh. Jayce jerked his head to the side with a shaking noise, slamming his cheek against the wall. His legs gave a twitch. Viktor drew them out, watching Jayce's blood drip off his fingertips. After a moment of staring, he felt that pit open up in his stomach. A lump in his throat. No, what was he doing?? This was disgusting. This was cruel. He wasn't cruel. This wasn't like him. He glanced back over at Jayce. "...I, uh, I apologize. Please just bear with it." Jayce seemed momentarily confused by his apology, his face slightly before flinching and looking away as Viktor sat up, hooking his finger into the stitch around his throat. He took a few deep breaths before giving a yank. His whole head came with it and all of his senses shut down. Not just his vision, but his hearing and his entire body went numb from his ears to his knees. He doubled over and had to catch his detached head with his hand, screaming again. It... hurt... so badly. His throat was burning. His throat was burning. He squeezed his eyes shut. He still couldn't see anyway. His head dangled off his neck. He was panting and he gave a few gags, but even if he was capable of getting sick, he wasn't sure it would've even worked with his broken neck. Tears and blood alike were streaming down his face. He could only remain hunched over, any movement he made exploding into that violent static that only usually occupied his knee. It was agonizing. Three breaths. Three breaths. He opened his eyes and his vision was slowly returning. Blurry. Only in his right eye. Of course. His left eye was still burst. He shakily moved his head backwards, reattaching it to his neck with a small crunch. As soon as it snapped back, Viktor started coughing. Every single one shook his chest. After a few minutes, it died down and his throat felt raw. Viktor could only drag in wheezing breaths. It wasn't like breathing was helping him in anyway, but it made him feel better. "...ugh." He finally made a noise and managed to look over at Jayce. The other seemed like he'd passed back out. His hand had moved to his midsection and it was staining his shirt. Viktor trembled quietly, managing to sit himself up. The Binds... were gone. Three seconds of breathing. Three seconds to recover. Viktor jumped, looking up as the door swung open, Sevika coming in with a pale face. She seemed to take note of him, coming over and kneeling down. Her eyes were wide and Viktor shook his head, raising a hand as he barely managed to whisper that he was fine. Sevika's shoulders were completely tensed up. Behind him, Jinx suddenly burst into the room. She seemed to see where Sevika was, running over and kneeling down. "He's here?? Is he okay?" She sounded so frightened. "E-Everyone could hear something except me. What happened to him?" Viktor's shoulders sank. He was glad that Jinx hadn't been able to hear him screaming. Sevika finally spoke, saying that it seemed like he was alright now. "I-I've broken the stitches. It was... a bit taxing." Viktor managed. His hands were still shaking. Silco finally came back into the room, his mouth covered. Even he looked shaken. And Viktor knew that Silco had to have heard worse than that. Silco cleared his throat, seeming to compose himself before asking if it was done. "It is done. I just... need to recover." Viktor managed in a shaking voice. His whole body was still giving small shakes. "WHAT HAPPENED TO HIM?!" Jinx suddenly yelled out, tears having formed in her eyes. Viktor jerked back, Sevika doing the same as she held a hand up to her ear, shooting a glare at Jinx. Silco quickly came over, gathering the distressed teen into a hug. "He was injured. He was injured and he had to fix himself. He is alright now." Silco quickly assured her. Jinx asked if he was telling the truth. "I am. I'm looking at him right now. He'll be alright, Jinx." Viktor could only watch her in dismay. It did hurt his chest a little to see her so upset, especially knowing that she still couldn't meet him directly. Her worry was confusing, but endearing. He remembered when she'd thought everyone was messing with her. And now she was so eager to meet the 'invisible man' that everyone else could see. He was waiting patiently to be able to speak to her for the first time. Just a little while longer. His entire body had gone numb and he couldn't feel the static anymore. Silco rubbed Jinx's back as Viktor moved. "Viktor, please rest a moment longer. Don't try to stand yet." That concern was back in his voice. "Shit, bookworm, sit down." Even Sevika sounded shocked. Viktor gave a weak scoff, lowering himself back down. He glanced over at Jayce, the vision finally returning to both of his eyes as his head reformed itself with soft crunching. He was to live with him again. But this time... This time he understood just a little more. While his obsession was still unclear, his impulses... Viktor could handle them now. He let out a shaky breath and closed his eyes. Three seconds to breathe. Three seconds to recover. Three seconds... to prepare himself for another nightmare cohabitation.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Transporting Jayce's body to a new location proved rather difficult for Viktor, especially with how hard Jinx had kicked Jayce in the hip while he'd been unconscious. It had taken him almost four hours to wake up again and the moment Viktor had taken control, there'd been a bruising ache along the side of his body. Of course, Viktor had watched her do it, but he wasn't exactly able to stop her. Only resign himself to knowing that walking was going to be hell for a little bit. As if moving with his knee in his transparent form wasn't difficult enough. He gave a small sigh through his nose before inhaling sharply, keeping Jayce's hand pressed to his hip. "She got him good, didn't she?" Sevika asked in amusement, glancing back at him. Viktor muttered that she sure had, as they both moved down the street. Sevika had been instructed to bring Viktor and Jayce to one of the houses Silco kept as a backup in case The Last Drop became unlivable. It was still around the area.Viktor wasn't sure he was a fan of their neighbors, taking note of several Shimmer addicts watching them pass by. He raised a brow. "This place is locked down. There shouldn't be a problem. Most they'll do is scratch at the door." Sevika said, glancing back at him. Viktor didn't like that at all. He was holding the keys in his other hand. They would only be able to unlock the door from the outside. He could hear some of the addicts following after, though they still kept their distance. "They seem interested in pretty boy's face, huh?" Viktor glanced back before replying that he wished he wasn't currently the one behind it. "You and me both." Viktor rolled his eyes. They approached a narrow house, seeming to be one of a line of similar houses. Sevika stood back and Viktor flinched as he moved up the stairs before unlocking the door. He moved inside, reaching out before turning a knob. All the lanterns around slowly simmered to life. Silco had told him the house would have water and power. It hadn't mattered to him, but Jayce would need it. Viktor raised a brow before starting to wander around. He could hear Sevika standing in the door behind him. He found the staircase, slowly making his way up until he emerged into a small bedroom connected to a bathroom with a shower. He made a small hum of acknowledgment. The sheets on the bed looked thin and scratchy. He turned and moved out of the bedroom, making his way back down the stairs before squeezing his eyes shut. He had to sit down, lowering himself onto the third step. "Good gods, where did she learn to kick like that??" He had to lean back, holding his hip again. Sevika snorted as she watched him with crossed arms. The front door led directly into a living room, which led into a kitchen. The staircase was between them, leading up to the second floor, which was entirely the bedroom. "This will do for him..." He scoffed softly. "It will have to." He finally got up before moving back up the stairs. He sat Jayce's body on the bed, slipping the cloak he was wearing off his shoulders. He glanced down at Jayce's body once more before stepping out of it. Jayce inhaled shakily, his face flushing. He suddenly winced and held his hand to his hip. "Believe me, I know." Viktor told him. He'd left the keys to the house on the small table in the living room. "Excuse me a moment." He turned, fazing down through the floor and landing in front of Sevika. He sighed quietly, materializing his cane and leaning on it. "...Thank you for the escort, Sevika. I know you are not... fond of him." Sevika rolled her eyes, saying that was an understatement. "But it wasn't just him. It was for you. Once he's all set, you should head back to The Last Drop and we can get that game going." She stated. "And you can get ready for an ass-kicking." Viktor blinked before chuckling and raising a brow challengingly. "Quite confident today, are we?" Viktor paused as he heard creaking upstairs, followed by furniture moving. He sighed. "...It may be a little bit." Sevika nodded and turned away. Viktor watched as she slipped out the door, shutting it behind her. There was loud clack as a hidden mechanism seemed to firmly trap it shut. The door seemed to lock on its own whenever it shut. Viktor found this curious, even if he knew it wouldn't exactly affect him. He paused and glanced over towards the stairs. He gave a small sigh through his nose. "Jayce-""Where is it??" Jayce sounded slightly panicked. "Where is it?" Viktor's hands slightly tightened on his cane. He knew it. Jayce was looking for his Rune. Viktor replied that it had been confiscated, which was the best word he could think of for it. "Th-That's mine. K-Kidnapping wasn't enough?? Bleeding me wasn't enough?" Viktor turned to look up the stairs as Jayce appeared at the top of them, seeming like he had to lean against the wall. His hand was completely bandaged and treated. He looked frantic. Viktor narrowed his eyes. "Suddenly kidnapping is a problem when it happens to you?" He answered coldly, making Jayce pause. Viktor rolled his eyes. Three taps of his cane to reach the couch. He sat down and glanced up as he heard the soft, uneven thumps. Jayce was stumbling his way down the stairs. He seemed to be scanning over the house, his brow furrowed as his hand gripped the wrist that would've held the Rune. He stated that he needed it back, his voice shaky. "You do not, Jayce." Viktor said, furrowing his brow. He blinked as Jayce turned on him, yelling that he did. Viktor slightly pressed himself back against the couch, his face slightly crinkled in displeasure. Jayce instantly started towards the door, but his steps were slow. Viktor gave a small sigh. Jayce reached the door and tried to open it before rattling it. He asked why it wouldn't open. "It has no need to. I do not need it to open and you are not meant to leave this place." "You..." Jayce sounded furious as he turned to him and Viktor pushed himself up, leaning on his cane."What, Jayce?? Are you upset over being held hostage?? Surely no one else here would know what that feels like, would they?" He was beyond annoyed with him and Jayce stared at him before demanding to know how he was going to get food or clothes. "It will be brought to you." Jayce stared at him blankly. "Do not look at me like that. You've brought this upon yourself." Jayce turned and Viktor jumped as Jayce slammed his bandaged fist into the door. He seemed furious as he turned away, holding his head. He was still in his blood-stained clothes, his hair greasy and messy. He even still had a bit of blood smudging his lips. The action seemed to have reopened the gashes, Viktor watching as the bandage around his hand slowly started to become soaked with red. Jayce was pacing agitatedly. "Jayce-" "Shut up." Jayce's voice was scathing and Viktor was slightly offended, scoffing a little. "You stole my Rune. Twice. The thing that's kept me going since I was a child. I would have died without it." Viktor stared at him and he spoke almost instantly, saying that Jayce had almost died with it too. That it hadn't seemed to matter so much to him when Viktor had found him. Jayce could only glare at him and Viktor's eyes moved to his hand. He could see blood dripping onto the wooden floor. Jayce's hands were curled into fists, slightly shaking. Viktor finally met his eyes again. "Why are you so panicked, Jayce?" He asked quietly. Jayce instantly snapped for Viktor not to misunderstand his anger. That he wasn't afraid, but instead he was furious. Viktor didn't quite believe him. He furrowed his brow. "...Is it because you feel powerless now?" Jayce stared at him before stating in a firm, yet shaky voice that he didn't. Except he did. Viktor could tell just by looking at him. He'd lost the one thing that could affect Viktor. He didn't have a way to hold power over him. "Do you think I'll leave you?" That question seemed to make Jayce shut his mouth, his jaw clenching. Jayce asked why he wouldn't. "That Rune was influencing you. Corrupting your thoughts. Perhaps without it... I could find better company in you." Viktor said, looking him over with a small sigh. Jayce glanced up at him doubtfully, his anger having faded. There was another look in his eyes. Something resigned and bitter. "Is it because you feel powerful now?" Jayce asked, his voice shaking. Viktor paused. He didn't think Jayce had any right to be speaking to him like he was so evil. Three seconds of silence. Jayce turned away, burying his face in his hand. "You're lucky I can't touch you." His thinly veiled threat made Viktor scoff a little. He replied that Jayce wouldn't have anyway. "And you're so fucking sure about that?" Jayce shot him quite the glare with his golden-brown eyes. Viktor only stared back before speaking in a reminding tone that it was Jayce who said he didn't like hurting people. Jayce stared at him and he faltered before turning his head away again. "How could you stick me in a box?? At least when I had you, I brought you places..." His voice trailed off into distressed breathing. He was staring intently at Viktor, who... knew that look. He asked what Jayce wanted. "I want to bash your head in. I want to watch your blood and bone spray across this floor." He whispered. "Y-You..." He trailed off and furrowed his brow. He seemed to be thinking about something else now, raising a shaky hand up to his mouth. "You... made me lick up my own blood??" Right. Viktor's hands instantly tightened on his cane. "...I assumed it would satiate the bloodlust. You seemed to calm after it." He replied, fighting the urge to duck his head. Jayce still seemed like he was in shock, staring at his bloody, bandaged hand. He stated again that Viktor had made him taste his own blood. Viktor... felt bad about that. He finally lowered his head, turning it to the side. "I thought it would stop the urge. You were speaking of eating flesh and blood. I... I assumed being able to taste something you were craving would..." He trailed off. It had been messed up. Doing that had been wrong and it made Viktor's stomach turn. "...I apologize." Jayce had fallen quiet and when Viktor glanced back up, the other's face was pale. He turned and stumbled his way to the kitchen sink before leaning over it. He let out a weak gagging noise. Viktor felt... awful. He turned his gaze to the floor as he heard Jayce become sick. His hands were tight on his cane. He felt awful. He did. It had seemed like a good idea at the time and Jayce had... Jayce had seemed to react well to it. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut as he heard Jayce become sick again before it devolved into shaky panting. He glanced up, seeing Jayce holding the sides of his head as he leaned against the counter. "...I never did things like that to you. Even putting the Bind on your skeleton gave me nightmares." Jayce's voice was weak. Viktor stared at him. "...And what if I'd been of flesh and bone? Could you still say the same?" Viktor asked, his own tone uncertain. "Would you do all those things you said? Rip me open? Eat me? Bash my head in?" Viktor furrowed his brow. "What would you have done to me if I hadn't already been dead?" He saw Jayce pause. "Because I think I would've been in pieces somewhere by now." Jayce turned to look back at him, saying he wouldn't have been. "The moment I argued with you. The moment I fought back. You would've mangled me in an instant." Jayce turned on him, snapping that it wasn't true. That he had better control than that. "Jayce, I am dead and you've still had to put Binds on some of your urges." Jayce stared at him. He was quiet for a moment, seeming to be struggling with gathering his thoughts. "If I had been alive? If you'd been able to touch me?? You would've torn me limb from limb by now." Jayce stared at him before speaking in a weaker voice, insisting that he could've controlled himself. Viktor only stared back. "No... I don't think you could've. And I think you know that." Jayce finally turned away, burying his face in his hand. It slid down until he was just covering the lower half of his face, seeming in tearful contemplation. He looked troubled and shaken. Viktor hesitated before moving. Three steps forward. The taps of his cane stopping seemed to spook Jayce more than the sounds themselves. He stared at Viktor, his eyes guarded and uncertain. Viktor asked him what he was thinking. Jayce paused before his eyes averted. Viktor asked what Jayce wanted to do to him right then. What it involved this time. His flesh? His bones? His blood? "...Screaming. When you... sounded like that earlier..." Jayce's voice was strangled, like this was painful to admit. "...I think I was fascinated by it. I was... shaken because I'd never heard you sound in so much pain, but something about it was... The urges were so strong, I could feel them in my throat. All the ways I could hear more. All the ways I could make it louder." Jayce was very much avoiding meeting Viktor's gaze. He kept it firmly on the floor between them. Viktor had slightly furrowed his brow. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds of waiting. Three minutes of silence. Three minutes of waiting. "...Viktor." Jayce finally spoke again. "Something is wrong with me." Viktor paused. Well, he'd already known that. And Jayce had already known that, but it truly sounded like the weight of it was finally setting in. Viktor replied that it was the Rune and he was separated from it now. "...But where did it get the thoughts to amplify? That Rune didn't give me thoughts. It... took what I already had." Jayce wouldn't meet his eyes. "It made what I already had louder. I can't push them to the back of my mind. I can't ignore them. I can only try to resist them." Viktor replied that he knew. This... This was good. This was amazing, even. Viktor felt a small bit of hope flare in his chest at Jayce's acknowledgment. Viktor hesitated before taking another step closer. He froze up as Jayce's eyes snapped to him so intensely that he would've been convinced Jayce hadn't been looking at the floor moments before. "Viktor, I want to hurt you." He said it with such urgency and Viktor finally nodded after a moment. He replied that he knew. "What do I do?? I want to hurt everyone. I-I can't be acting like this. My inventions... my research... How can I focus on making a name for myself when hurting people is all I can think about?? I want people to remember me as a genius. Someone admirable. I have gone through too much to lose that now. I've been fighting these thoughts too long to lose everything like this." His voice was shaking. "I deserve it." Good gods, sure. Whatever. Whatever Viktor could use to help Jayce. Viktor had to fight the eye roll he wanted to give. If Jayce's ego was the way to pull him from his violent impulses, sure. "And you think you can conquer these urges so easily??" Viktor questioned, raising a brow at him. Jayce replied that of course he could. "You believe yourself to be so controlled?" Jayce replied firmly that he did. He stated that he could control it. That he was doing so now and he could continue to do it. It sounded like he'd certainly convinced himself, but Viktor was a bit harder to sway. He'd give it anywhere from a few hours to a day before Jayce would be back to fighting his demons tooth and nail again. "...I hope you are correct."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor placed his head against his hand, watching as a man was thrown across the table, taking all the cards with him. "...I suppose no one wins now." He commented to Sevika, who shot him a furious glare as he waved his hand vaguely at the table. They'd been playing cards at one of the tables in The Last Drop and Sevika had been the first one eliminated. She was admittedly handling it better than Viktor had thought. He rolled his eyes as one of the coasters flew straight through his head. He wasn't sure how long it had been. He'd gotten Jayce's first supply crate, filled with clothes and food ingredients to stock the cooler in the kitchen with. He'd disappeared off to The Last Drop shortly after to finally take up Sevika on that card game. Jayce had told Viktor he'd be fine by himself, but Viktor still wasn't quite sure he believed that. He furrowed his brow and Sevika seemed to take notice, raising a brow as she slammed her drink back down, having taken a swig. "I think I must return back to the house. I have to make sure he is not dead." Viktor pushed himself up with his cane. "Would it be so bad if he was??" Sevika asked, furrowing her brow at him. Viktor paused and glanced over at her. "I would rather it not be under my supervision." He responded flatly. Sevika rolled her eyes and nodded to him, raising her glass and wishing him luck. Viktor chuckled quietly. He turned away, dematerializing. When he materialized inside the house, he could tell something was off. It was very quiet. He was certain Jayce hadn't gone to bed yet. "Jayce??" He called out for the other hesitantly. He glanced back at the front door before pausing as he saw the bloody scratch marks scored into the thick wood. He glanced up the stairs. He dematerialized and appeared in the bedroom. The bathroom door was shut and Viktor hesitated. Three steps forward. "Jayce?" "What?" Jayce's voice sounded defeated and exhausted. The doorknob to the bathroom was stained red. Three taps of Viktor's cane. Viktor stated that Jayce knew the door was not able to be opened from the inside. "Yeah, uh, I was able to take an educated guess that one." It fell quiet and Viktor spoke, asking how bad it was. "...I don't know. I can't look at them." Jayce finally admitted. Viktor asked if he could come inside. "I was about to shower." Viktor paused before saying that he'd been in Jayce's head. That he'd already seen all of him. It was quiet for another few moments. Three seconds of waiting. Viktor stated he was coming inside. He fazed through the door, stopping as he saw Jayce leaned against the wall. He was sitting with his arms resting on his knees. His hands looked... They looked destroyed. The bandages dangled off of his cut one. His fingers were a mess. There was a pool of blood on the floor in front of him. Jayce's eyes were closed and, based on how hard his eyelids were twitching, they'd been shut for a while. Viktor moved over, tapping his cane again so Jayce knew he was in front of him. He knelt down, settling on his knees in front of him. He placed his cane next to him. Jayce's shirt was cast to the side and his pants were unbuttoned, but the fly was stained red. He looked like he'd given up trying to take them off. He paused as Jayce spoke, asking if he'd had fun at the bar in a muffled voice. Viktor didn't answer, reaching out. He slipped his hands under Jayce's, making the other let out a small hiss of pain as he examined his fingers. Jayce was missing one or two nails. Viktor had no doubt he'd find them by the door. There were splinters. "Jayce. We have to clean these. I need you to get up." Viktor said quietly. Jayce wouldn't move and Viktor sighed. He moved forward, slipping into Jayce's body. He didn't push him down, allowing Jayce to ride alongside him as a passenger in the body. He pushed himself to his feet, moving over to the sink. He managed to undo the rest of the bandage by pinching the end in the gap between his pinky and ring finger. He cast the bandage to the side before nudging the sink on. He slipped his hands under the water and squeezed his eyes shut. They stung. He opened his eyes just a little to see the red swirling around the drain. He felt a wave of nausea, but it wasn't his own. He reached up to the cabinet, flinching as he opened it up and pulled out tweezers. He moved to the side of the sink, laying a hand towel out. "Do you want me to push you down for this? It may take me a bit." Viktor asked aloud, glancing up at Jayce's face in the mirror. There was no answer and Viktor furrowed his brow. "Do you believe you can handle it?" He finally felt Jayce respond that he could. Viktor's eyes moved back down to his hands. Pulling the splinters out was painful and tedious. It left Jayce's hands raw and stinging by the end, dark red spots now staining the once grey towel. He reached out, awkwardly using his wrist to turn on the sink again before running his hands under the water. He flinched, inhaling sharply through his teeth. He could still feel that nausea. He could feel other things as well. Embarrassment. Anger. "I am going to bandage your hands." He felt Jayce reply that he still had to shower. "I will bring up the gloves from downstairs." Jayce had received leather gloves in his supply crate. It was quiet and Viktor sighed. "Jayce, contrary to your belief, I do not wish harm upon you." He said quietly. He instantly felt the disbelief and doubt like a punch to the gut. He wrinkled Jayce's nose a little as he worked with the roll of bandages. He knew Jayce couldn't say the same. Jayce didn't need to say anything at all. Viktor could feel it. Violent urges gathering in the back of Jayce's head. Festering. Seething. Viktor could only wonder how long Jayce needed to be separated from the Rune before those thoughts would calm again. Viktor hesitated before becoming still and closing Jayce's eyes. In his mind, he reached out to the strings that had started to gather. His fingers brushed against one and he startled as he saw a split second image of himself with Jayce's hands crushingly tight around his throat.
Does he ever stop talking?? What other noises can he make? Can he start screaming again? What does he sound like when he can't breathe? When someone is squeezing the life out of him? If only. If only, if only, if only.
My hands would fit so easily around his throat. I couldn't even need both of them, I could do it with one. He's thin enough. I can wrap my hand around his arm. His leg. My thumbs will touch if I hold either side of his waist. I just... need... one good twist. One good grip. Aim for the seventh vertebrae in the spinal column.
Viktor pulled his hand back quickly, his brow furrowed. He... couldn't possibly be that thin, could he? Or were Jayce's hands just big? The strings were starting to crowd him and he furrowed his brow. He was backing away into the portion of Jayce's head containing his memories and he glanced to the side. Something very dim and barely visible caught his attention. One orb was not floating like the others. Viktor was sure he must've passed by this one several times before. The only reason he could even see it now was because of how many strings had followed Viktor. He sidestepped the strings before making his way over to the darkened orb that rested on the ground. He'd only encountered this once before when he'd first been struggling to get used to his new abilities. He knelt down, scooping his hands under the orb. He stood up with it carefully. He paused as he felt Jayce ask what that was. Right. The other wasn't in the subconscious. "Are you sure you want to be around for this?" Viktor asked aloud. He held the orb up. "...It's a suppressed memory. There is no telling if you will react well to seeing it." It was quiet for a moment before asking what Viktor thought it was. Viktor paused. He spread his fingers over the orb and took note of it. It was... cold. "...I believe it may be relating to that snowstorm. It is freezing beneath my fingertips." There was another moment of silence. Three more seconds of silence. Jayce said that he wanted to see it. Viktor nodded. He had to coax the memory back out of its suppressed state. Slowly, surely, light started to appear in its center. Viktor held it up and blew breath on it. The light flickered a little brighter. It began to swirl around inside the orb until it was filled to the brim again. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose before opening it, the screen stretching up in front of him. It was the snowstorm. Viktor could hear Jayce crying and his vision was blurry as he kept wiping his eyes. He was holding the Rune in one hand. He was lost. He didn't know where he was going. Viktor watched as Jayce turned in a circle, nothing but white seen all around him. Jayce slowly sank to his knees before starting to sob. Three seconds. The warble that suddenly swept through the snowstorm even seemed to stretch into Jayce's mind around Viktor. Jayce was seen slightly lifting off the ground before he suddenly appeared... somewhere else. He dropped with a small, wheezing cough. He was in a field. The sun was out. Despite this, Jayce only seemed to start crying again as he held the Rune. He finally looked up and gave a small shriek. Even Viktor jumped. A cloaked figure stood in front of Jayce, holding a staff. Neither of them seemed to have heard it approach. The figure knelt down and the inside of the hood was pitch black. The screen looked like it had fractures wherever the face was supposed to be. Viktor didn't hear the figure speak, but Jayce was soon answering through his tears. "I-I dunno. I dunno, I lost h-her. C-Can you find her??" There was silence and Jayce only seemed to sound more frantic. "Pl-Please... I-I don't... I don't know. I-I-I'm s-sorry..." He inhaled shakily. The figure's hand suddenly gestured to the Rune and Jayce sniffled before holding it up. The figure seemed to look it over. Three seconds of silence. "I-It was in the snow. Is it y-yours?? I can give it back." Jayce was heard sniffling before the memory retreated back into the orb. Viktor stared at it quietly. "Someone saved you in that storm. A mage of some kind." Viktor spoke aloud, his brow furrowed. It was silent and he glanced to the side. "It seems as if they let you keep the Rune." He startled as the orb flickered wildly. "Jayce??" The strings that had been following Viktor suddenly seemed to close in, more shooting up around him. They were too close. They were too close and all of them were walling Viktor in. His eyes widened as he held the orb against his chest. Finally, he took a step forward, plunging himself through the remaining opening. It was just big enough for the orb to move through unscathed, but Jayce's voice filled Viktor's head as his shoulders passed through the strings.
I want him.
That thought was the loudest and the clearest. But there was nothing pure about it. It was scathing and malicious down to the last syllable.
He's mine. Where is he going without me?? Who does he keep talking to?? Why won't he just stay here? He trapped me here. He trapped me here and he's just going to leave and come back as if nothing happened. No. No. He's mine and I want him here. Anywhere he goes, I want to go.
I need to break his legs. I have to do something. Any sacrifice. Anything a higher power needs, I'll give it. Why can't I just paralyze him?? I could've broken his bones. Left him to crawl across the floor. I'd let him call out for me. I want to hear him call out for me. I want him in pain. I want him hurt. I want him here.
He should not have saved me.
Viktor stumbled back, staring at the strings as he held the orb against himself. This... obsession... ran so much deeper than he'd thought. It was downright parasitic, sapping Jayce's thoughts and energy. He glanced around, but Jayce had fallen silent. He looked down at the orb before reaching up. He let it leave his hands to float among the others. He wasn't sure why Jayce had gone so silent. He wasn't sure if it was because of the reawakened memory or what Viktor had heard when he'd moved through the strings. Was Jayce embarrassed? Ashamed? Or was he scared? Angry? Viktor still couldn't sense anything. He opened Jayce's eyes, looking at himself in the mirror. He startled a little and reached up with one fully bandaged hand. Tears were running down his face, but he hadn't felt them before. He moved back, resting against the wall before sliding back down. Viktor stepped out of Jayce's body, jumping as the other suddenly let out a strangled noise. A little stranger than the ones before. He turned to look back at him, a slight mist raising from his cheeks in surprise, if only for a moment.Jayce's ears and face were flushed, one hand cupped over his mouth. He stared at the ground. There were emotions flying through his eyes and all of them seemed bad. Negative. Those golden-brown eyes were filled with uncertainty, flicking up for a moment as Viktor spoke. "I will fetch you the gloves so you may clean yourself without risking damage or infection to your hands." He said. Jayce hesitated before giving a small nod. Viktor looked him over again, materializing his cane. "...I'll be waiting for you outside." That seemed to catch Jayce's attention and he glanced up, asking why Viktor wouldn't want to go spend time back at the bar. "Leaving you by yourself at this time seems to be... of poor taste." Viktor replied, his hands tightening on his cane. "I will remain here." Jayce trembled as he pushed himself to his feet. "...Get out." He stated, his voice shaky. Viktor glanced up with a raised brow. Jayce had nothing but relief and desperation in his eyes, even if his tone was extremely contrary. "Get out!" Jayce suddenly broke into a yell, Viktor quickly raising his hand in surrender and turning away. He moved towards the door, fazing through it to stand back in the bedroom. It was... worrisome. Yet still... peculiar and fascinating. He hated to admit it, but the way Jayce constantly waged war against himself was interesting, no matter how equally saddening. He glanced back at the bathroom. His plan had originally been to return to The Last Drop, but... it seemed he was needed elsewhere for right now.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor sat on the edge of the bed, his cane placed neatly across his lap. He could hear Jayce slightly struggling in the shower, even with the gloves he'd brought him. When the water finally shut off, it was a waiting game. Viktor had left him some of the lounging clothes. An old fitted shirt and loose pants. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose and closed his eyes. Three seconds of waiting. Three minutes of waiting. Three minutes of waiting. He would have to go in if Jayce didn't come out soon. The bathroom door finally opened and Viktor opened his eyes with it, relief slightly filling his chest. He glanced over and paused at Jayce's shocked expression. "...Yes, I am, uh, still here. I told you I would staying, did I not?" He questioned, raising a brow at him. Jayce averted his eyes and gave a defeated shrug. "I thought... you were just saying that." He replied. That slightly annoyed Viktor and he retorted that Jayce had such little faith in his genuineness. "I do. Because why wouldn't you?" Jayce remained in the doorway. He'd slipped his hair back and the stubble had gotten worse, which seemed to very much displease him. Viktor's eyes fell to his hands. It seemed like Jayce had been trying to get the gloves off. He gestured next to him, telling Jayce to come sit down. Jayce was hesitant before moving over. Viktor moved himself to face him, managing to sit crisscross on the bed after inhaling sharply from the static feeling that consumed his knee. Viktor gestured for him to lift his hands and he started to carefully loosen the gloves, tugging at each finger very carefully. It was dim enough in the room that he could do it. It seemed one of the cloths lining the ceiling had actually been covering up some kind of skylight. The glass seemed to be holding and it was sunset. And luckily, it was too high for even Jayce to reach, but he had at least one window. Viktor glanced up and slightly furrowed his brow. "You are aware you are allowed to look at me, Jayce?" He asked, a bit taken back by how firmly the other's eyes were planted off to the side. He paused as Jayce replied that he couldn't. That looking at him made it worse. That even hearing Viktor say his name normally was starting to become too much. "This obsession with me... Did it start when we met or after?" Viktor questioned, pulling one of the gloves off. Jayce's shoulders sank and he replied that he really didn't want to answer questions like that. His voice was slightly strangled. Maybe that had been too blunt, but Viktor could never know for certain with him. He pulled the other glove off, pushing them both to the side."Are you actually staying? Or were you just making sure I, uh, I didn't die in there?" Jayce asked, glancing up at him. Viktor blinked in surprise before replying that it was both simultaneously. He moved back, sitting on the edge of the bed and slipping his legs over the side so he could finally unbend his static-filled knee. Jayce remained at the head of the bed, keeping his back pressed against the wall. Three seconds of silence. Viktor paused. He laid his arm in his lap before reaching up. He undid the buttons on his sleeve before slowly rolling it down. It hadn't gotten worse, but... Viktor stared at the whitish-blue webbing on his skin. It was spread from both entry points of where the chain from the Binds had been attached from him. He wasn't sure if it was residual magic or just his form's natural defense to the intrusions. Whatever it was... He carefully drew his fingers over it and watched as the fingers on that arm gave small twitches and spasms. Whatever this was, it was affecting his... nerves...? He wasn't even sure of that was what he could call them since this form wasn't exactly physical. "Viktor?" Viktor glanced up, pausing as he saw Jayce staring at the webbing on his arm with wide eyes. He asked what had happened. "I am unsure if it was caused by me or the Rune, but this... growth is culminating from the entry points of the Binds. It stops spreading once the Bind is removed." He said, looking back down at his arm. "I will have to wait and give it time to see if the effect is... reversible." He jumped as he heard the bed shift. He looked over as Jayce appeared next to him, his hand already outstretched. His face had gone pale and Viktor didn't like that at all. He'd... assumed Jayce had done quite a bit of research in their time together and that he knew what this effect was that the Binds had caused. However, it seemed to the contrary. Jayce didn't seem to recognize the webbing at all and it horrified him. Jayce whispered that he needed his journals. Viktor furrowed his brow as he replied that Jayce knew he couldn't do that. "This is dangerous to me...?" "I-I don't know. I didn't..." Jayce reached out to his arm, though his bandaged fingers still drifted through it. "That looks like corruption of some kind. Some of my experiments would sport the same, uh, the same pattern before they..." He trailed off and Viktor hesitantly prompted him to continue. "...before they'd die. But you're already dead. I don't know what this would mean for you." Viktor dryly joked that he hoped it finally meant the end for him. "Don't say that." Jayce's statement was so horrified and shaken that it made Viktor jump a little. Jayce wouldn't meet his gaze and Viktor was quiet before giving a hesitant apology. Jayce squeezed his eyes shut and leaned down, burying his face in his bandaged hands. They both sat in silence. Viktor wasn't sure what he could do or say to make this any better. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Viktor glanced back up at the skylight as the lanterns in the room seemed to subtly grow brighter. The sky was darkening. "Jayce, you should sleep. Just to get yourself back on... some kind of schedule." He paused as Jayce spoke into his hands, his voice muffled. "Why? So you can go run off back to the bar? Have the time of your... second life??" He didn't sound angry, but rather... jealous. And not that Viktor was able to leave the house either. Viktor raised a brow before asking if Jayce really thought he went out there to mingle with people. "They can all see you, can't they?? They were looking at you." Viktor replied that it didn't mean he spoke to all of them. "I only go to see the ones I am close to. Occasionally, I am dragged into interacting with others, but it is nothing more than surface level conversation. And not only am I not able to be touched, the people I stick close to will not allow anyone to try and touch me. Even if they know those hands will go right through me, they sense when I am uncomfortable." Viktor stated quietly. And it had been true. Silco had stabbed a man's hand straight through into his desk for making an unsavory comment about Viktor while discussing business. More than once, Sevika had started fights in The Last Drop over other Shimmer-induced individuals trying to reach out and grab at him. And he knew only of one instance where Jinx had tried to scratch a man to hell like some kind of feral cat for even suggesting that Viktor was just a part of her imagination. He gave a small sigh. "...They don't let anyone touch you?" Jayce sounded like he was making sure. Viktor rolled his eyes, reminding Jayce that no one could touch him anyway. "But yes. They defend me, even if it is unnecessary. It is... rather alarming that such a large number of people are able to lay eyes on me so easily, but it is not... awful. Perhaps it gives me some sense of living again. Though it is-" He glanced at Jayce sternly. "-mostly-" Jayce scrunched up his shoulders. "-without fear of attack or pain. And certainly..." His voice lightened a little. "No fear of disease. I will not have to... feel myself wither away in real time. This way of living... is quite preferable to my previous one as long as I keep good company." He scoffed. "For the most part." Jayce was quiet again, watching as Viktor rolled his sleeve back up, rebuttoning it. "To answer your earlier question, no. I do not wish for you to sleep so I can leave. I had no intention of doing so. I am telling you, it is best to create a schedule." Jayce glanced up at him before looking back down. "...Ask your question." "I know you don't need to sleep. And doing it freaked you out so badly that you cried. But could you at least lay here with me?" Jayce finally managed. "It would help to have a familiar face next to me... instead of a... a stranger's." Viktor paused. Right. Jayce's parties. His investors. For a moment, his chest ached. Even with how Jayce had acted towards him. How dangerous he was with him, Viktor... wouldn't wish that kind of thing on anyone. Feeling forced just to achieve a dream. It felt nasty to the core. He replied that he would lay with him and Jayce blinked, his eyes going wide. "...You will?" He sounded shocked, like he really hadn't been expecting Viktor to agree. Viktor blinked in surprise before scoffing in amusement. He replied that he had nowhere else to be. Jayce cast a look of doubt at him, but he was already moving. He laid down off to the side of the bed, resting on his stomach and sliding his arms under the pillow. Viktor laid himself down on his back next to him, making sure Jayce had all the sheets on him. Viktor had dematerialized his cane and he had his hands over his stomach, his fingers clasped together. Jayce was watching him, his face half buried in the pillow. He hesitated before scooting himself closer and it was enough that Viktor's hip slightly fazed into his. That seemed to satisfy him and Jayce's body relaxed. "...I'm just glad to see a familiar face on the pillow next to me for once." His breath was shaky. Viktor paused and glanced over at him. How many times...? Viktor furrowed his brow. "...If it's any consolation, one of the benefits this current situation will bring you is that you will not have to do that anymore. No more strangers in your bed. No more... acting." He couldn't imagine the pride Jayce had to shove down in order to even appeal to them. Or maybe he'd used his ego to attract them. "No more unnecessary strain. Useless conversations." Viktor sighed quietly. Jayce's bandaged fingers had curled into the mattress beneath them. He replied that he'd been so close to giving in every night. That the urges were so strong every time he laid eyes on a new face in a new bed, that it had sickened him. "I can only imagine. You did well not to hurt anyone." Jayce replied that he'd wanted to. "I know." Jayce stated that he still wanted to. "I know." Viktor's voice was quiet. Jayce's fingers twitched. "Some beds I left, I wanted them stained in red. I wanted pieces and body parts strewn over the floor and blood to paint the ceiling like fireworks. Other beds, I wanted to just leave a body. Peaceful. Sleeping. They were kind to me, but in the end, they were still... using me." Viktor bit his tongue on that one, choosing not to say anything. "The most merciful thing I wanted to do for them was to smother them. I could do it so easily. Others wanted me to choke them and I nearly killed the first guy." Good gods. Viktor wasn't horrified at what Jayce was saying, but rather... He pushed himself up a little with a furrowed brow as he raised a hand, stopping Jayce from speaking further. He asked how much funding Jayce had needed. Jayce glanced up at him before looking to the side. "...My ambitions are expensive. My dreams cost me." Viktor asked about Councilor Merdarda and Jayce paused. "...She is still my main sponsor and she is still kind to me. We get along quite well. But she only wanted to fund the Hexgates. For other projects, I needed to look elsewhere." Viktor could only stare at him, having propped himself up on his elbows. Jayce's eyes instantly narrowed into a pained glare as he stated in a shaking voice for Viktor never to look at him like that. That he didn't need his pity. Viktor paused before his eyes moved away. "...You do not have to do those things anymore. Not while you are here." He paused as Jayce replied that he couldn't do much of anything here. Viktor sighed, laying himself back down. His hands were crossed over his stomach again, but his grip was much tighter. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. He heard Jayce speak. "Did I disappoint you?" The question made him pause and he glanced over in confusion. Jayce wouldn't meet his gaze. Viktor asked why he would be disappointed. No, he was... He was hurting for him. "That I let myself be passed around so easily for the sake of money. By the people who humiliated you when you were alive." Viktor paused. Right, most of those people would've been... around that age now. Students of the Academy he had known had often been from wealthy families and would likely have gone on to become elites and scholars. The very ones Jayce was interacting with now. Even still... Viktor shook his head. "You... came from a middle-class smithing family. Not the generational wealth that the other students possessed." He said softly. Jayce blinked. "I've seen your memories. I've explored your mind. You grew up in Piltover, yes. But this did not mean you were wealthy. The Kirammans taking care of you gave you food and shelter, but you had to find your own jobs. You had to make your own money. You had to prove your way into the Academy. Only once you were accepted, did any of that family's wealth come under your gaze." Jayce's hand tightened on the sheets. "And even now, they will not fund your endeavors, will they?" Jayce didn't answer. "It is an unfortunate truth that you would have to look elsewhere to secure that kind of money. It is... a nasty reality." He glanced over at him. "...I apologize, Jayce." Would Viktor still have run away? Yes. That wouldn't have changed. But if he had stayed, would Jayce still have had to do all that? Or could he have helped? Viktor sighed quietly through his nose. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Viktor raised a brow and glanced over. He furrowed his brow. Jayce's eyes were closed now, but there were tears staining his face. Good gods, he wouldn't have thought he'd feel so bad for this man. It was these small vulnerabilities that reminded Viktor that there was something else wrapped up in that obsessive personality and those threads of violent thoughts....Maybe that child from the snowstorm. Viktor sighed. "...You... trapped me. Held me hostage. Threatened me. Lied to me. Desecrated my corpse. Defaced my grave. Caused a panic in the undercity. Trapped me again. Stitched my bones together... and are constantly getting upset with me for having you kept here instead of letting you get killed." Viktor murmured flatly, listing everything he could think of. He glanced over at Jayce's sleeping form. "Am I missing anything?" As expected, there was no answer, but Viktor gave a quiet scoff. "All of this... and you have yet to... even hurt anyone, let alone kill them. Good gods, I would've expected you to be soaked in red on the darkest floor of Stillwater Hold by now." Despite everything, Viktor had to admit that he was impressed. With the thoughts he'd heard. With those urges Jayce was fighting so constantly, he still had managed to keep his hands clean of all blood except his own. But how long could he do it? How long would he be able to keep it up? Viktor furrowed his brow. The Rune wasn't with him anymore, surely... surely, Jayce would become better. Right?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had found that Jayce moved in his sleep. This wasn't exactly new information, considering that he'd lived with him before, but they'd had separate beds. Now, he was discovering that Jayce moved all over the damn place in bed. Every few minutes, the bed would creak again and Viktor rolled his eyes. Jayce had started on his stomach, moved to his side, then to his back, stopped at an awkward halfway point, curled up completely before stretching himself back out again. The skylight was dark above them. The room was dark. Viktor glanced over. Jayce's eyelids wouldn't stop twitching and his brow continuously furrowed. Viktor could never tell if it was from a nightmare or if that was just how he slept. He'd never seen Jayce's face up close when it had happened. He finally turned away, rolling on his side and facing away from Jayce. While Viktor didn't exactly sleep, he was always capable of... dissociating. Going calm. Going quiet. Slipping into a state of numbness and silence that he couldn't be bothered from. He was sure he'd passed through a few years by doing that. It was how Silco and Sevika had first found him in The Last Drop. Unresponsive. Staring. Mind drifting... elsewhere. Viktor rested his head against the pillow. He focused on the wall ahead of him before his vision started to tunnel. It seemed to dial in on one specific mark in the wood and that was all Viktor would process. That was all he could see. Every other sense shut down. He could only see and he could only focus on this one pinpoint. It was quiet. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three hours of silence. There...There wasn't silence. Viktor's vision suddenly expanded again, all of his senses reawakening. It was still dark. The room was still dark. But something had changed. Viktor could feel his cheeks rising into mist and his eyes went wide as he heard the desperate, muffled panting behind him. He...? Viktor could only stare forward. Must was rising off of his shoulders as well. His face was hot. He didn't dare move. Jayce's arm was through his body, his hand ever so slightly resting against Viktor's solidified shoulder. Of course, if an area happened to be pitch-black, Viktor could reach a mostly solid form. But this... He fought the urge to stiffen as he felt something moving his lower body. There was something thrusting between his clothed thighs. It was hot and twitching. Hard. Jayce made another weak noise behind him. He was swearing quietly, his head felt resting against Viktor's neck. Viktor was frozen. His lips slowly parted, though he wasn't sure if it was from the heat or the shock. He could feel Jayce rubbing against him. Between his thighs. Under his... The mist from his cheeks only got worse, swirling around like steam. He instantly shut his mouth again, keeping himself from making any noise. Jayce's other hand ghosted itself over his hip before just slightly pressing down on his navel. Viktor felt himself be moved back just enough that his backside was pressed almost flush to Jayce's hips. "...fuck..." Jayce sounded humiliated, even if Viktor knew Jayce didn't see that he was awake. He wasn't sure how long Jayce had been at this, but the other sounded destroyed. He was panting heavily and letting out small, strained noises. His length was throbbing so hard that it made Viktor's thighs twitch in response. Jayce's hand released his shoulder and the other moved up from his navel as he continued to slowly thrust his hips. Viktor felt both of them wrap ever so slightly around his torso. Jayce seemed to forcibly be keeping his touches light so no part of him would slip through Viktor. He was panting so desperately and Viktor could only imagine he wasn't getting much from this, no matter how badly he wanted to. Was this a trauma response? Was it because Jayce was used to this kind of arousal whenever someone shared the bed with him? Even if Viktor put no weight on the bed. Jayce could sleep through without ever knowing Viktor was there if Viktor had decided to lay down once his eyes were closed. "H-Hah... Mmh..." Jayce's voice was slightly pained. He pressed his face against the back of Viktor's shoulder and Viktor could feel tears. Panic slightly flared in his chest through the heat. Viktor... wasn't sure he was able to feel pleasure anymore. He could feel... something right then. He could feel the heat of it. In all his years of being gone, he'd never tried to... Viktor's ears started to swirl up into mist as well. His whole body had started steaming. "Guh..." Jayce groaned and his length twitched. He sounded so frustrated. Had he even been able to...? Viktor swallowed ever so lightly. If he'd still had a heart, he was sure it would be in his throat. He could feel Jayce's against his back. It was racing. It was absolutely racing. Jayce's thrusts suddenly became a little heavier as he let out a much more frustrated swear. Viktor was right. His barely-corporeal body was not doing it for Jayce. He glanced down, his face hot. He could see the tip of Jayce's length thrusting between his legs. One of his own hands was resting on the pillow next to his head and the other was laid out down next to his hip. It would be a little difficult, but... The mist coming off his face felt worse as he reached his lower hand up slightly. He lifted a finger, able to find where the tip of Jayce's length would just barely touch it each time. "Hah..." Jayce shivered behind him. Viktor parted his lips and adjusted his hand before the next thrust sent Viktor's finger straight inside the head of Jayce's length. "HAH!!" Jayce suddenly cried out in such a filthy, strangled voice that Viktor once again had to stop himself from jumping. His hips instantly halted and Viktor yanked his finger out. "AH!!" The motion sent a violent shudder through Jayce's body, his length twitching violently as something suddenly spattered the sheets and landed the floor. "Ugh... hah..." Jayce's breathing finally stabilized again. His length was still tucked between Viktor's thighs and he paused as he felt fresh tears against the back of his neck. "Fuck... Fuck." Jayce sounded upset with himself. His voice was breathless and pained. Viktor felt Jayce's hands pull back and suppressed a shiver as the other slid his length out from in between his legs, inadvertently rubbing up against him one last time. Good gods. Good gods. Viktor's legs wouldn't stop twitching. His inner thighs felt hot. He was steaming all over and his shoulder had been left warm. How long had Jayce been holding him?? Was this heat... pleasure...? This wasn't what he remembered it feeling like, but it had likely been decades, not to mention he didn't feel things the same. Viktor slightly furrowed his brow. "Sorry... I'm..." Jayce seemed to struggle with his apology, his voice becoming muffled. He'd likely buried his face in his hands. "I-I'm sorry, I... I don't know what..." He let out a frustrated, shaky sigh. "Fuck. What is wrong with you?? Why won't you react? Why won't you answer me? You really just let me do that?" He sounded pained. "Are you even here or is this just an illusion? Did you end up leaving anyway?" Jayce's voice was strangled. "What am I doing??" His frustrated voice broke down into heaving breathing again. Viktor paused. He would have to explain later that he could dissociate like that. Right now, he was afraid Jayce would likely have a heart attack if he gave any sign that he'd been aware of any of that. "How... hah..." Jayce inhaled shakily and Viktor's face heat back up as he heard the soft squish. Jayce was touching himself again. "Hah... how could you... be so kind to me...? A-After all I d-did to you... Y-You stayed here... Why?? Ah!" The bed gave a small shake and Viktor's fingers slightly curled into the mattress beneath him, his eyes wide. "Hah... ah... Why did you save me...?" He sounded distressed through his breathlessness. "Wh-Why do you k-keep coming back to me now? I-I had to... hah... I had to chase you down before. I had to catch you... Wh-What do you mean y-you'd stay in the house with me?? Wh-What do you mean you'll lay with me?? Why??" He gasped, a filthy noise escaping him and quickly becoming muffled. "Fuck, my bandages..." He sounded dismayed. "What am I doing?" He groaned and he felt silent besides his noises. Viktor finally felt the bed shudder and Jayce made a strained noise of dismay. "The bandages... how... Fuck, how do I hide that...?" There was a slow shuffling and Viktor assumed Jayce was trying to clean himself up. After a few more moments, there was silence. Three seconds of silence. Viktor's body was still steaming. Good gods, coming back to that??He froze as he felt Jayce's hand in front of him. Jayce was leaning over him. He focused back forward and dulled down his eyes. He didn't need to blink anymore. It would be easy to feign dissociation. He didn't dare move his eyes, but Jayce's hand stretched into his view, settling on the arm that held the corruption. It was still hidden beneath his sleeve and Viktor would never be solid enough for Jayce to unbutton it. "...I don't know what it's doing to you. You said it wasn't spreading. But... All the plants... all of them withered and died with this pattern..." Jayce was whispering urgently to himself. "You can't leave me." He sounded so desperate. The mist was starting to settle back down over Viktor's body. He paused as he felt Jayce's bandaged hand nudge his own upturned fingers resting against the pillow. Jayce... had huge hands. Viktor was always surprised every time he relearned it. Even now. Two fingers pressed lightly against Viktor's palm before sliding down. The moment they went past the wrist and over the webbed areas, Viktor felt his fingers give an involuntary spasm. Jayce's fingers froze. "...The affected area spurs a reaction." He pressed it again, both Viktor's pointer and ring finger giving individual twitches. "The pattern affects deeper than skin level." He saw Jayce's hand pull back out of his vision. "Assumedly doesn't have nerves, but it's reacting to something." Admittedly, Viktor had always felt safest when Jayce slipped back into his muttering, studious mode that he used for his research. He could feel the mist finally settling and he focused his eyes again, blinking. He gave another soft swallow. His legs were still tingling. He furrowed his brow ever so slightly in displeasure before squeezing his eyes shut as that horrifying static feeling suddenly took over his knee. It started to twitch and he heard Jayce fall quiet. Viktor's calf would stiffen and his foot would slightly arch whenever the fizzling got this bad. He knew that, if he'd been alive, that whole section of his leg would've been engulfed in such a painful cramp that he may have cried on a worse day. Luckily, he didn't feel that cramp anymore, but the static in his knee remained. He suddenly felt something slip over his knee. A palm resting lightly above his clothed kneecap. It began to rub in circles and the static suddenly started to spread through his leg. The fizzling was fading, but the tingling it left behind spread all the way up his thigh and down to his ankle. He could just barely fight back the small noise that almost escaped him. Instead, his thigh gave a twitch. The bed shifted and a second hand slipped below the thigh above his knee. Two fingers slightly massaging either side of his leg. Oh, good gods, Viktor's eyes were wide. His foot was arched again. The twitching spread up to his hip. Jayce was quiet before saying this was the knee that always bothered him. The reason he walked with a cane, even in death. That he didn't think something painful would've followed him to such a state, especially if it hadn't been related to it at all. Jayce was wrong. Viktor's knee wasn't ever painful. It was uncomfortable. It was uncomfortable and felt like a buzzing swarm was stuck inside it whenever he put weight on it. Yet right now, with Jayce's massaging, that uncomfortableness was spreading through his whole leg and becoming something else. Tingling... through his... whole leg. Good gods. He let out the softest, shakiest breath. The mist was starting to rise off his body again. He felt Jayce's hands pause as the other wondered out loud if this felt good. It... Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, another soft breath escaping him. Three seconds to try and compose himself. Three seconds to try. Three seconds to fail. The relief of the static being alleviated from his leg, mixed with the tingling it produced along his thigh and hip... Viktor could feel tears threatening to come to his eyes. Gods, yes. Yes, it felt good. Viktor's hand dug into the mattress. He wasn't sure if it was... He didn't think this was pleasure, but he was feeling something. He had to... He had to stop this. He made a small noise, indicative of one stirring. Jayce's hands yanked back from his leg so fast that Viktor nearly laughed. Well, if he still wasn't trying to control his breathing. He started to move his arm and he felt the bed move one more time. "J-Jayce?" He spoke quietly and he could feel all the tingling starting to return to his knee. It gathered up in that static feeling again, but it was somehow... lesser. He glanced over. Jayce had turned on his side, his back to him. Viktor doubted Jayce was as good a faker as he was. "Jayce?" He would still give him the chance to pretend. Jayce didn't answer, but Viktor could see how red his ears were. He didn't say anything. He slowly sat up, making a small noise of effort. He pulled his knee up to his chest. His thighs felt... hot. Viktor rubbed his cheek, trying to keep the mist under control. He glanced off to the side, able to see something shiny staining the bed. Between them, Jayce's soiled bandage was still there. Viktor was really going to be letting him have this one with how poor of a job Jayce had done hiding everything. He rolled his eyes. He moved to the edge of the bed, summoning his cane before standing. Three taps of his cane. "I said I would not leave." He spoke softly. He glanced back to see Jayce stiffen. "...but he moves around far too much for me to be comfortable." Jayce's shoulders sank and he saw him vaguely throw up a hand in frustration. A smile pulled at his lips. The soft tapping from his cane filled the room as he moved forward. He fazed through the floor, landing in the living room. He approached the couch, dematerializing his cane and sitting down. This felt less crowded. He glanced up the stairs. He heard the bed creak one more time before there was silence. Viktor finally raised a hand to his mouth and closed his eyes, feeling his whole body erupt into mist as heat spread from his ears to his cheeks to his neck. What a thing to come back to. Maybe he should've taken something like that into consideration sooner. With how used Jayce was to doing those kind of things when there was someone else occupying his bed, Viktor felt a little bad. That kind of habit, combined with Jayce's obvious obsession with him in the first place. Viktor felt like an idiot for not thinking this would happen sooner. Would Jayce had slept through the night if he hadn't been there? Viktor raised his hand to his forehead. And his knee... He finally took a deep breath and closed his eyes. He had to compose himself. He could feel the mist starting to pull back towards his body. "Okay..." He whispered softly. Okay. "A... learning experience." He murmured to himself, glancing back up the stairs. "A-A minor hiccup." Despite being inside Jayce's head so often, he was once again surprised by amount of things he had yet to learn.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The couch gave a sudden rattle and Viktor was once again yanked from his dissociation. He'd been sitting with his cane placed across his lap, having summoned it again just to hold onto something. As his vision came back into focus, he blinked a few times before jerking backwards, Jayce's face inches from his own. "Jayce!!" He instantly snapped at him in a scolding tone as he kept himself pressed back against the couch. "What are you doing?!" "No, what are you doing, Viktor??" Jayce instantly demanded in response. His golden-brown eyes were wide. "You've been sitting motionless for hours." Viktor paused. He could see daylight vaguely in the bedroom upstairs. Jayce had changed into new clothes and his hands were both wrapped again. To Viktor's surprise, he was also clean-shaven. Well, to be fair, the most he'd done with the supply crate was help put away the food. He hadn't exactly looked at or asked about what else had been in there. Viktor stared at him for a moment before furrowing his brow. "It is how I pass time. I am not able to sleep, so I... go into a daze. It shuts off my senses for me until something jars me." Viktor said, keeping himself pressed back against the couch as Jayce leaned back up. He asked if Viktor usually did that, clearly taken back. "Yes, I've done it for years! And I have... also done it... for years." He said, glancing to the side. It took a moment for that to click, but Jayce's eyes widened. "This is a normal thing for me, Jayce. Good gods, could you not bring me back like that??" Viktor shot him a stern look. "Just because I am unable to die of fright does not mean you can do whatever you wish." The explanation seemed to calm Jayce's nerves just a little before he asked if that wasn't dangerous for Viktor. Viktor blinked. "Why would it be dangerous? Nothing is able to hurt me." Jayce looked him over again before furrowing his brow and turning away. "An apology would be nice!" "An explanation would've been nice too, Viktor." Jayce shot back, moving to the kitchen area. "You somehow looked more dead than you already are!" He started to root through the cabinets. Viktor rolled his eyes, leaning back against the couch again as he waved his hand dismissively. He would've thought Jayce had seen him do that before, but... Now that he thought about the year they'd lived together, the only time he'd felt safe enough to do that was when Jayce was asleep. Viktor sighed through his nose before glancing up as he heard chopping noises. Jayce was carefully cutting up an apple. Viktor wasn't sure how much he trusted Jayce with a knife like that, but he knew Silco wouldn't have cared enough to have all the dangerous things removed. Jayce glanced up and seemed to notice him staring. "...What? Did you not think I was capable of holding everyday objects?" Viktor replied that it slightly worried him and Jayce scoffed. "You're already dead." He stated in a reminding tone."I am not... worried for me." Viktor replied after a moment. Jayce's chopping momentarily stopped. He stated that he wasn't some baby who couldn't handle a few sharp things. Viktor furrowed his brow before jumping as Jayce seemed to finish cutting up the apple, throwing the knife in the sink with a clatter. He seemed more than aware that Viktor was watching him and it only seemed to irritate him more. Viktor turned his head away. This aggression wasn't even the usual playful kind. Was Jayce really that upset with him for not telling him that he could dissociate like that?? He... He had thought Jayce had seen it at least once before and maybe hadn't known what it was. He was so distracted that he startled again as a plate with the apple slices was dropped on the table in front of him. "I want to do an experiment." Jayce's statement was simple and he sat on the opposite end of the couch from Viktor. Well... Viktor paused. Before, he hadn't felt like he could say no. He'd really just gone along with most experiments Jayce wanted to try. But they weren't researching. They weren't at any lab. Jayce didn't have the authority he once did. Viktor paused. He could say no this time. But he was curious. He asked what the experiment would be. Jayce gestured to the apple slices. There seemed to be brown, crystalline powder on them and Viktor recognized it. Cinnamon sugar. Those had been... Viktor was a little confused. He loved these. He'd had these all the time when he'd been in the Academy. Whenever he and Skye would fight, this was the... the peace offering. "I want you to eat these." "...Through you." Viktor said, glancing up at him. Jayce nodded before rolling his eyes and asking if he had another way to do it. "I... I suppose not. But why?" Jayce paused and his gaze averted as he stated that it was just another experiment. That Viktor had backed out of eating something in his body last time. Right, he... Yes, he had done that. The sleeping experience had scared him so badly that he'd refused to do the eating experiment. Because... Viktor stared at the apple slices uncertainly. He hadn't... tasted anything in years. He had mostly only had sensations. His blood running down his tongue whenever his throat bled. The fizzling that came whenever he accidentally bit the side of his mouth. He glanced up at Jayce again. "...You are not to make fun of me if this overwhelms me like the other one did." He stated firmly. He wasn't expecting the slight surprise that lightened Jayce's abnormally serious expression. The other seemed taken back that Viktor was agreeing. Those golden-brown eyes landed on him and Viktor could only stare back before furrowing his brow. "What?" Jayce scanned him over. He knew one way to get Jayce to talk and he rolled his eyes, pretending like he'd just realized something. "Oh. I get it." Jayce's eyes snapped up to his and Viktor scoffed. "Is it not a bit too early in the day for me to be indulging you like that?" Instantly, Jayce's ears went red and he quickly stated that that wasn't the reason. "Mm." Viktor made a small noise of doubt. Jayce instantly straightened up, saying that wasn't why he wanted Viktor to possess him. "Jayce, that is usually always the reason. The thrill, as you call it?? The, uh, physical sensation?" Viktor watched as the tint seemed to spread to Jayce's cheeks. "I-I'm trying to... I..." He seemed to struggle for a moment and he turned to face Viktor, pulling one knee up against himself and letting the other leg hang off the couch. He finally put his head in his hand, taking a breath. "That's not why I'm doing this, okay?" Viktor stared at him quietly before asking why he was then. Jayce glanced at him before his gaze moved to the floor. "I... I talked to Professor Young a lot before I graduated. About making friends. What do when I had them. How to keep them. And, uh, after she said to my face how she was surprised I had no friends, she... spoke about you. She never mentioned your name or what happened to you. Just an old friend." Jayce's eyes raised to the apple slices. "She said these were your favorite. One of you would... offer these if you wanted to try and end a fight you were having." Viktor stared at him for a moment. He'd... known about it. Jayce only seemed to grow more agitated, pulling his knee closer to himself. "...Can you just eat them??" "...Right. My apologies." Viktor moved over, Jayce closing his eyes. The body shuddered as Viktor carefully took control from Jayce. He didn't shove him into the subconscious, keeping him off to the side instead. Viktor moved Jayce's leg off the couch and reached out, pulling the plate of apple slices to his lap. He stared at them quietly before picking one up. Instantly, he became so anxious that he almost dropped it. He froze up, the apple slice trembling in Jayce's bandaged fingers. He hadn't eaten anything in decades. He began to place the apple slice down, panic having absolutely flared up in his chest. Instantly, he felt Jayce say that he was fine. The other sounded like he was trying to be assuring. And yet those thoughts that gathered in the back of his head worked against him. Viktor didn't even want to know what they were saying. Jayce spoke again, asking in a slightly dismayed voice for Viktor to take one bite. Just... Just one bite. He opened his mouth but quickly closed it again, burying his face in his free hand. Why was he so afraid of this?? For no reason. There was no reason. Viktor lifted his head before opening his mouth and sinking his teeth into the apple slice. He had to force himself to chew, shakily holding Jayce's bandaged hand up to his mouth. Already, he could feel the tears welling in his eyes. He could... taste... cinnamon. He could taste apple. The crunch of the sugar between his teeth. His heart was pounding. He hadn't... He hesitated before eating the rest of the slice. The wave of nostalgia that swept through him made his chest ache so badly. He remembered that taste. It had been so long since he'd had it before. Good gods... He startled as he felt the tears escape down his face. He had to use Jayce's arm to wipe them. He inhaled shakily reaching out and setting the plate back on the table. He buried his face in his hands, closing his eyes. Viktor took a few steps back in Jayce's mind, his hand tightly holding his forehead as his other arm hugged his stomach. He startled as he hit the strings around him.
Just make him eat the damn thing. Once I push it far enough, he'll have to swallow it.
His tongue would taste like cinnamon if I ate it. What would the rest of him taste like? Would his blood taste like apples? Would his skin taste like sugar??
If only he wasn't dead. If only he wasn't dead, I could push the apple down his throat myself and watch him choke on my fingers.
Viktor was trembling until he hit another string. He ate it. Did he like it? The thought was quiet and curious. Worried, but hopeful. Viktor paused and turned to the string. He reached out and pulled it to him, keeping it against his side. The other groups of strings wouldn't come near. He could hear the violent thoughts circling him like sharks. Does that mean he accepted my apology? Is he okay? He won't say anything. He hasn't looked up. Is he still upset with me? The string he held radiated anxiousness and Viktor paused before pulling it closer to him and resting his head against it. He wouldn't say anything, but he could feel the string gathering up his unspoken words. He pulled his head back.
He liked it. He liked it! Good! That's good. Maybe I can still save this. Maybe I... Maybe I won't keep messing this up. Maybe I can actually be... normal... about this... Please.
Viktor gave a small sigh. The string glowed and he could feel the energy slipping through his fingers as he held onto it. It was calming in a way. ...I don't know if I can be normal after last night.Viktor paused as he stared at the string. "What happened last night?" He asked aloud. Instantly, the string yanked away from him and Viktor's eyes shot open as he inhaled sharply. He could feel Jayce fighting to push him out of his body and he quickly left it, backing away as he materialized his cane. Jayce was left on the couch, his face flushed red as he awkwardly cleared his throat, turning his head away. "The, uh, the urges were... loud last night." He replied quietly. He was leaned against the table. "All of my thoughts were, uh..." He glanced at Viktor before his eyes moved away again. "My thoughts were a mess last night. I don't blame you for moving to the couch." Viktor stared at him. "...I only moved to the couch because you move around so much in the bed." He stated, raising a brow. Jayce rolled his eyes in instant annoyance, stating that he'd always done that. Despite this, Viktor could see relief in his eyes at the change of subject. "You rolled over inside of me three seperate times." Viktor said, leaning against his cane as he tipped his head. His voice was unamused. "And knowing that you moved around so much would've been quite nice to know before inviting me to lay down with you." Jayce quickly stated that he hadn't been exactly expecting Viktor to say yes. "Mm." Viktor made another noise of doubt and Jayce sighed. He glanced down at the apple slices. "...You liked it?" He asked after a moment, still clearly uncertain. Viktor blinked before his hands tightened on his cane. "I did, thank you." He said quietly. It wasn't nearly as overwhelming as sleeping for the first time in years, but... Viktor glanced back down at the apple slices again. Could he...? Three taps of his cane. Three seconds of silence. Jayce stared at him before asking if he wanted another one. Viktor paused. Jayce asked if he could handle having another one. "I... believe so." A relieved glean appeared in Jayce's eyes and he nodded, inviting Viktor to try again with a nod of his head. "Come on."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor jumped as metal boots landed on the table, sending the cards scattering. He couldn't help but break out in quiet laughter. Sevika, on the other hand, seemed less than amused as Jinx hopped in excited circles. "Today's the day! Today's the day!!" She sang out excitedly. Sevika had to duck as Jinx's braids swung around, Viktor grinning as the longer one passed right through him. Sevika slammed her fist on the table, snapping that they were playing a game here. "You were going to lose anyway! Viktor had a King!" Jinx said, smiling. Instantly, Sevika turned on Viktor with a glare. "You bluffed?!" She demanded, Viktor leaning his head against his hand with a smile. Jinx giggled loudly, hopping down off the table. It was her birthday. The birthday. And she had been bouncing off the walls nearly the entire day. Viktor watched her run around as an empty glass sailed through his head, heard crashing somewhere behind him. His eyes trailed over the inside of the building. The contrast of how The Last Drop looked between night and day was startling. When the doors were closed and it was daytime, the place looked like some deserted, ill-inspired play place. At night, it was the most popular nightclub in Zaun, with lines stretching to get in. During the night, Viktor usually stayed up in the office with Silco. Sevika was either guarding the door or she was out 'collecting rent' as she called it.Jinx was either with them in the office or she was... Viktor wasn't actually sure where she'd go. Silco had told him Jinx had a special little hideout somewhere that she'd been building on her own. However, Viktor wasn't allowed to see it until Jinx was allowed to see him, as per Jinx's orders. He certainly considered it a fair enough trade. Viktor pushed himself to his feet, moving over to Jinx with small taps of his cane. She was humming as she tinkered over the small, handmade firearm she kept in a holster around her waist. She had proved to be quite a gunsmith, an engineer, and hell of a shot, all wrapped up in one. Viktor was... A smile pulled at his lips. He was proud. He came to a stop and his smile faltered a little. He reached up. One of Jinx's braids was so long that it dragged along the floor. The other was only to her hip and he lifted it. Jinx paused and turned to face him. "Are you thinking about that again?? It's just hair! I'm growing it all the time!" She insisted, her voice cracking a little. It seemed to do that a lot. Even without being able to see him, Jinx's innate sense of where he was had drastically improved. She was even able to raise her head to look where his face would be. He let the braid drop and gave a quiet sigh. "I'm not dead, am I?" Sevika called out in an unamused voice that she unfortunately wasn't and Jinx stuck out her tongue, raising a finger at her. She turned back to Viktor, her face relaxing. She gave a smile. "Then nothing of value was lost!" She declared proudly. It brought a smile to Viktor's lips. He glanced back at Sevika, motioning that he was going to go meet Silco upstairs. "He has to leave to help set up your present." Sevika stated flatly, looking downright unamused as Jinx made an excited noise, hopping in place as her metal boots slammed against the floor. "Yes, yes, yes, YES!!" Jinx was overjoyed and Sevika rolled her eyes before taking a long drink from her glass. Viktor turned and made his way towards the stairs. He climbed them carefully, moving down the halls. Nothing of value was lost? He... wasn't sure he felt the same. They'd had Jayce for about six months before there was a raid on Zaun by the Enforcers. Marcus, of course, had warned them of such a thing beforehand, but Silco had been under the assumption they were looking for him and the other chem-barons. When the raid had commenced, it seemed they'd actually had a different target in mind. Someone from the undercity had tipped off the Enforcers as to where Jayce had gone. Someone who'd seen him head to the house with Sevika. One of the addicts. They still weren't sure who it was, but all of them had certainly fled the area once the door had been dismantled and broken in. They hadn't been back since either. Jayce hadn't fought. If anything, he seemed downright relieved to go back to Piltover. But Viktor... The way Jayce had stared at him still haunted him. The dismay, the realization that Viktor was not going to be joining him. All that calmness that Viktor had been seeing in him. All that stability that he'd been starting to show. All that... progress. Jayce had been... struggling. Viktor could see Jayce struggling to let him go. He'd anxious and panicked and Viktor could see him wanting so desperately to... hurt. While the Enforcers had been searching the house, Viktor had come up to Jayce, telling him he would be fine. That Jayce could go back and he didn't have to stay here. Jayce had been absolutely distressed, but the more Viktor had spoken, the more he'd seemed to calm down. He'd told him that he had a whole life ahead of him. Ambitions and goals. That Jayce could not achieve those dreams of his down in Zaun with Viktor. That he had to go higher. Jayce had been doing so well. And Viktor had given him an assuring smile that he was sure made Jayce cry. Jinx had arrived before Viktor could find out and she had fired on several Enforcers, under the assumption they could see Viktor and they were going to take him too. By the time Sevika had caught up to incapacitate her, Jinx had lost half of a braid and there were two bullets in one of her shoulders. The Enforcers had taken Jayce away during the firefight. Viktor hadn't even seen him go. And he hadn't seen him since either. Viktor... often wondered how he was. But there was no way he would go up to Piltover to check. He wouldn't dare. Jayce had been doing so well. His obsession had been getting better and Viktor wouldn't dare mess this up for him by appearing in front of him again. No matter how badly he... There were signs Jayce was well. Even mugs. Viktor had almost laughed when he had seen Jayce's face on a broken mug that had fallen into Zaun. The Man of Progress. Was that what they called him now? Even thinking the title brought a weak smile to Viktor's lips. He stopped in front of the office door, tipping his head. Three taps of his cane to the doorframe. Silco called out for him to come inside and Viktor fazed through the door. He blinked in surprise, seeing Singed. The doctor didn't usually travel up from his lab. "Viktor! You haven't changed a bit!" Singed mused, looking him over. Viktor blinked at him a couple times before sharing a glance with Silco. He managed a polite nod of his head, saying that he'd just seen Singed not even two months ago. Singed paused before staring forward. He nodded, snapping his fingers when he seemed to remember it. However, he made no further comment on it and Viktor rolled his eyes. "Silco asked me to manufacture a special, pint-sized variant for Miss Jinx." He dug in his pocket before pulling out the small jar and placing it on the table. "Asked for a variant that would attune her senses to... otherworldly presences with minimal... undesirable qualities." Singed hummed and tipped his head. "Something that would last more than a week." More than a week? Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and his brow instantly furrowed. He shot a look at Silco. "The doctor has assured me it is safe. Because he knows what will happen... should it not be." Silco added quietly. Singed glanced over to him, but didn't say anything. Silco's eyes moved back to Viktor, softening a bit. "How is she? I assume she's causing trouble downstairs." Viktor replied that she seemed quite excited. So excited, in fact, that Sevika was already on her fourth drink. Silco blinked before saying that they should give the present now then, before Sevika was unable to patrol for him later. He did seem vaguely amused by this, but Viktor knew he wouldn't dare show a genuine laugh of any kind with another person besides him there. Viktor nodded, turning and making his way back through the door. He stopped at the top of the stairs before firmly moving to the left. He called out for Sevika to send Jinx up. Sevika barely seemed to get a word out to Jinx before those metal boots were heard stomping up the stairs. A blue blur flew past him, only to skid to a stop. Jinx had halted herself in her tracks, still a bit away from the office door. She turned and squinted around the hallway with a furrowed brow. Viktor allowed himself a smile. Truly nothing got past her, did it? He followed after, the tapping of his cane heard approaching her in the hallways. "You were trying to hide from meee." Jinx stuck out her tongue in his direction. Viktor chuckled softly. He fazed through the door seconds before it was thrown open. "I'm ready, I'm ready! Whatever it is, I'm ready!" She eagerly came running up to the desk, leaning against it. "What am I doing??" Singed started to speak and Jinx instantly made a shooing motion at him. "I don't want to hear you speak. You're creepy." She turned to Silco. "What do I do?" Silco shared an amused glance with Viktor before sighing and reaching out. "You will take this bottle." Silco held it up with his fingers. He tapped the top of it once and Jinx jumped as a small spike popped up. "And you will prick your finger. The spike will retreat once you've done so until you tap it again." Silco set it in front of her. "Be careful." He was very stern about it. Jinx's eyes were shining as she picked up the bottle. She scanned over the small bit of glowing liquid with wide eyes. Finally, she placed her finger on the spike and pushed down. "Ack!" She caught the bottle with her other hand as she dropped it, shaking her finger. Her eyes lit up purple for a moment and they faded. Jinx huffed, holding her finger in her mouth. "Jinx." Viktor spoke in a prompting tone and he saw Jinx freeze up completely. He knew that Jinx had been fighting herself about this sometimes. If he was real. If what she was seeing was real. And Viktor was sure she was seeing things that weren't. He was almost completely certain she suffered from some kind of hallucinations. But not right now. Three taps of his cane. He tipped his head as Jinx turned to him, instantly backing up against the desk. She climbed up on it, her gaze wide and guarded. Viktor could see her scanning him over. "You were so excited a few moments before." He took a step forward and Jinx let out a small gasp. She covered her mouth, starting to bounce in place. "Jinx, my desk." Silco prompted, shooing her forward. That small gesture small she seemed to need and Viktor startled as Jinx propelled herself off the desk, landing and skidding to a stop in front of him. Viktor blinked at her a couple times before laughing and greeting her quietly. She reached up and her fingers went through his cheek. She pulled her hand back, clearly spooked. "Congratulations, Viktor. This is the most quiet I have heard her in weeks." Silco commented. Jinx made a vague, dismissive motion back at him. She finally started to circle Viktor, looking him over like some kind of curious shark. "While she is quiet, I believe we still have business to discuss." Silco glanced at Singed. "You may leave, Doctor. Thank you."Jinx instantly retreated to the other side of Viktor as Singed went shambling past him. Viktor bid him farewell, alongside a polite thanks. As soon as he left the room, Viktor sighed. "It is about... Progress Day, no?" He already didn't like where this was going. He turned to Jinx. "You believe you will be okay going topside for it?" Jinx jumped as he addressed her directly before nodding eagerly. She seemed to be trying to hold his hand with both of her own. Viktor held his hand still so she could at least pretend. "Silco, I have told you before that I will not go. I apologize. If Jinx believes she will be alright and Sevika does as well, I have no need to follow." Viktor said quietly. "I only do deliveries for you. Nothing more." Silco pushed himself up from the chair and Jinx paused, moving a little closer to Viktor. She stood ever so slightly behind him. Silco scanned him over before he sighed. There was concern in his voice. "Viktor, you've been... distant. Even Sevika tells me your retorts do not hold as much bite." Silco said quietly as he stood in front of him, his hands clasped behind his back. Viktor's gaze drifted to the side. Silco carefully got his attention again. "Marcus has informed me that Heimerdinger will not be giving the Progress Speech this year." Viktor blinked. He furrowed his brow and opened his mouth before Silco spoke again. "It will be Jayce."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had never shut up so quickly in his life. He was genuinely rendered speechless and Silco rolled his eyes. "Good gods, Viktor." Instantly, that snapped Viktor out of it and he exclaimed that Silco couldn't just drop something on him like that. "It was decided last minute, it seems. Today. He will be giving the speech tomorrow." Viktor furrowed his brow before asking what that had to do with him. He could still feel Jinx trying to mess with his transparent fingers. Silco blinked. "You want to see him, don't you?" Well, yes, but..."You want me to be bait? Some kind of distraction?" Viktor asked flatly, narrowing his eyes at Silco. Silco scoffed, turning away and stating that he would never do that. "You tried to do that not even three weeks ago." Silco waved his hand dismissively and Viktor rolled his eyes, giving an exasperated glance down at Jinx. Jinx met his gaze before giving a small snort, breaking down into a snicker. "I don't know why she's laughing when I'm simply telling the truth." Silco stated, turning back to him as he leaned against his desk. Viktor finally allowed himself his own small laugh. "No, Viktor, you will not be bait. Nor a distraction." The look Viktor gave him was full of such doubt and disbelief that Silco had to raise a hand to his mouth to suppress a smile of his own. He cleared his throat, composing himself. "I'm being genuine, Viktor." Viktor furrowed his brow. "I'm telling you this so you can go see him. My only request is that you accompany Sevika, Jinx and the others up there before breaking off." Viktor stared at him. Go... see Jayce? After nearly two years apart? Admittedly, their first so-called 'break' from another had been much longer, but this time... Would seeing him again ruin all of Jayce's progress?? Viktor furrowed his brow. "I'd say he's done quite well for himself. Piltover's... golden boy." Silco rolled his eyes. It did seem like Jayce was their poster child now. Their... Man of Progress. "The choice is yours, Viktor. I don't control you. We both know this." He reminded him gently. "And yet you persist." Viktor replied, leaning on his cane. Silco shrugged, saying that Viktor couldn't blame a man for trying. That Viktor knew how useful his abilities would be to him. "Yes, yes, you have lamented this to me many times." Jinx's gaze was flitting between them quietly. She seemed curious as she watched them interact. Viktor could understand why, considering she'd only grown up hearing one side of every conversation. "I will not be part of your syndicate, Silco. The deliveries remain enough." Viktor kept his voice quiet, yet scolding and Silco sighed dramatically. He turned to Jinx, wishing her a happy birthday as he moved back around his desk. He sat down and pulled out one of his cigars. Viktor chuckled and turned away."Try not to choke this time, please." He heard Silco instantly call out that he'd only done that once. Viktor fazed through the door. He'd left Jinx with the decision to stay or go with him. He came to a stop in the hallways, looking back towards the door curiously. After a few moments, it seemed like Jinx was choosing to stay with Silco. Viktor turned and made his way down the stairs, covering his mouth and giving a small snort as he saw Sevika collapsed against the table with her glass tipped over in her metal claws. There was a smile on his lips as he moved past her. He slipped out of The Last Drop, stepping into the bustling streets. He never had any problems walking through them. Everyone just ran right through him. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He was headed up towards the Bridge of Progress. He could tell once he was near just from the decrease of Zaunites and increase of Enforcers. They were setting up the blockades around the Bridge so no Zaunites would dare interrupt Progress Day. Viktor rolled his eyes. He could tell which Enforcers were allies, even through their masks. They were the only ones to take note of him as he moved by. He wasn't planning on crossing the Bridge. Not completely. He almost made it all the way across before stopping in his tracks and sinking down through the stone. He landed on the riverbank below, turning and starting to move along the rocks. He furrowed his brow. Walking on uneven ground like this was... uncomfortable, to say the least. His knee was buzzing and he had to keep stopping and lifting his weight off of it. The sound of the water next to him distracted him and he glanced over. It had been a few years, but Silco had... eventually told him what had become of him and Vander. Viktor could only stare at the murky water quietly, his shoulders sunken. Even if he spoke of him like a poison, his voice would eventually soften the longer Viktor spoke to Silco about him. Viktor still couldn't quite believe how much the world had changed while he'd kept himself away that balcony. He finally managed to tear his gaze from the polluted water, turning and making his way along the rocks again. Good gods, it was irritating. He hadn't been out to this area in a few months, but every so often, he came back. He'd never known where they'd buried him and once he'd found out, he felt he owed it to himself to visit the spot. As he lifted his head, his stumbling steps came to an immediate stop. The grave was... There was an actual, carved headstone. A small stone wall stretched out from it, etched with intricate details. In the center, his cane had been cleaned and restored, placed delicately on the ground inside the wall. Viktor could only stare at it for a moment. That was... He hesitated before taking a few more steps forward. Once he got close enough, his hands tightened on the cane he held. That was...
VIKTOR
Beloved
There were only two words on the headstone, but it was all Viktor needed. He could feel the tears erupt down his face and he raised a hand to cover the bottom half of it. Zaunites... never got such beautiful graves. They were lucky to even get their names marked on them, let alone all of... all of this. Viktor hesitated before sinking to his knees in front of the grave. "Beloved?" He echoed quietly, his chest aching. He was fighting every urge he had not to just break down crying. He reached out, running his fingers over the beautifully designed stone wall. It would've only gone up to his ankles in height, had he been standing. The headstone itself was only a tiny bit taller. Nothing bold or grand. But... it was... Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, inhaling shakily. And they'd cleaned his cane... "Beloved??" He didn't understand. He paused as he heard footsteps, glancing over through tearful eyes. He reached up, wiping his eye as Marcus pulled his mask off. He was looking over Viktor quietly. Their interactions had remained surface level and cordial. Nothing more. Nothing less. But Viktor could tell that the sight in front of Marcus did seem to move something in him. "...One of my men saw you head out here. The rework of this grave was commissioned a week ago. They finished it in a day." He said, his eyes landing on Viktor. Viktor stared at him. "It was paid for by the Kiramman family." Viktor furrowed his brow before it clicked. His teary eyes widened as he turned to look back at it. "The restoration of your cane took longer. That was paid for by the Head of the Council." Viktor's chest only ached even more. His shoulders were sunken as he sat on his knees. Marcus watched him quietly. "...I oversaw the whole process." "Zaunites are never given such things." Viktor stated in a quiet, shaky voice. "My own headstone. Decoration. My name... and... Beloved." Viktor couldn't help how broken he sounded. Something like this felt like far too much. Marcus replied that everyone had seemed happy to contribute, even if there'd been a slight argument on if the body was to be relocated. Viktor glanced over at him. Relocated? Good gods, he'd already been dug up once. He... That was... the one thing he couldn't wrestle out of Jayce. No amount of politeness. No amount of closeness. No amount of messing with his memories or thoughts. Nothing could tell him what Jayce had done with that piece of him. Jayce had had it all locked away so tightly. Viktor had never seen anything like it. He could only hope that Jayce had returned that piece to this grave once he'd been brought back to Piltover.Had he really...? Viktor buried his face in his hand. "...Was it him? He commissioned it?" Viktor asked quietly, not looking at Marcus. Marcus blinked before replying that it was. Viktor... had to see him. He couldn't let such a beautiful gift go without gratitude. He had to thank him. And he wanted to do it in person. He didn't want any messengers. He didn't want to send any letters. Good gods, he... he had a proper grave. A headstone! A headstone with his name. And... "Beloved." Viktor could barely whisper the word. Why that word?? Could they only afford one? Or could they only fit one?? Why that word? Viktor inhaled shakily, trying to compose himself. "Thank you, Marcus." His voice was weak. "Should you not return to the bridge? If you are seen speaking to nothing, it will reflect badly upon you." "Don't think I'll be receiving any judgement for speaking to a grave." Marcus told him. "I can just tell them it was someone I knew." Viktor blinked before giving a weak chuckle. "Don't stay out here too long, Viktor. I can't even begin to imagine what seeing your own grave would do to your head after a while." Marcus gave a small bow before turning away. Viktor watched him slip his mask back on as he moved back down the riverbank. Viktor turned to look back at the headstone. He... He got up and carefully moved around the wall best he could before kneeling next to it. The headstone was marble. Brand new. Good gods, the headstone and the wall were both brand new. He reached out, sliding his fingers along the etched letters.
V I K T O R
His name. He... Viktor felt more tears come to his eyes as he pulled his hand away, pressing his lips to the back of it. This was... This was his. He couldn't quite believe it. He might've had the nicest grave out of any Zaunite and it destroyed him inside. He didn't even think he deserved it. He didn't deserve it. He hadn't done anything significant. What had he done? Made a fool of himself in Piltover's most prestigious Academy? Secured a legacy as the Dean's Zaunite Assistant? It was... laughable. His most... interesting trait, as far as he was concerned... was that he was dead. He kept his eyes squeezed shut and he hesitantly reached out again. Despite not knowing where it was, his fingers found the letters anyway.
B e l o v e d
It... made his chest warm, yet it ached all the same. Him? Really? Viktor almost wanted to laugh, but he couldn't. He sat next to the grave a few moments longer. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three hours of silence. ...He had to leave this place for now. Marcus had been right. It was... It was messing with his head. Viktor pushed himself to his feet, materializing his cane back to his hand. He would have to see him tomorrow to thank him. He had to talk to him and... ask why they'd chosen that word, of all things. Viktor's teary eyes scanned over his own beautiful grave one more time before he turned away and started his uncomfortable walk back towards the bridge.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor stared over the bridge quietly. He could hear faint announcements in the distance. He could smell food. His hands were tight on his cane. Today. Progress Day. The Enforcers guarding the blockades were all associated with Silco, so they did not bother him. Viktor jumped as something suddenly burst through him, spinning around. Jinx's blue eyes shone from under the brown hood she was wearing. "What are you waiting for?? You are your own invitation!" Her voice cracked again and she crinkled her nose. "Ugh." She shook it off. Viktor had spent the night with Silco and Jinx in the office. When he'd come back disheveled and tear-stained, he had never seen both of them get up so quickly. It had taken him nearly an hour to calm the both of them down too. Jinx seemed to have a habit of continuously circling him whenever they were talking. Viktor wondered if she was making sure he wouldn't disappear. He felt her lightly poking at his back. "Come oooon!" Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. He... He didn't know. He heard Jinx give a dramatic groan. "You did your job! You came up with us! Now you gotta go do what you came up here to do." Jinx hopped in front of him. "Come on! He said this would make you happy!" She insisted. Viktor glanced to the side, scoffing weakly. "Viktor! You always tried to get me to be happy when I was upset!" Viktor replied that a majority of the time, he'd only made it worse. "Only because I didn't know if you were real! But I do now!" Jinx said, smiling as she lightly poked him. Viktor replied that he hadn't been upset. "He said you've been mopey! You're mopey and you don't snap back like you used to!" Viktor furrowed his brow, stating that Silco had not said that. "Maybe not those words, but basically that." Viktor glanced down, watching as Jinx spun in small circles around him. It was clear she wasn't going to leave until he'd gone over the bridge and he knew that she was keeping the others waiting. Three taps of his cane. Jinx jumped and moved out of his way, smiling as he moved forward. He walked through the blockade as Jinx called out for him to have fun. Viktor's chest was already aching. He passed the blockade on the other side before arriving back in Piltover. It felt strange, the moment he stepped on smooth pavement again. As he moved into the city, he could see the booths set up on the streets. Merchants. Food vendors. He jumped as some children ran straight through him, laughing. A weak smile pulled at his lips. He'd always been backstage during Progress Day. He'd never gotten to see what went on the streets like this. He continued to move through the streets. The mood around him was jovial. Free. Very different from where he'd just stepped out of Zaun. Viktor wasn't sure whether the stage would be outside or inside this year. It always depended on what was to be unveiled. He glanced to the side before stopping, raising a hand to his mouth and breaking out in soft laughter. Yes, that was... that was certainly Jayce's gigantic face on that poster plastered to the wall. The Man of Progress. Good gods... Viktor scanned it over quietly. Despite their absolutely tumultuous few years together, Viktor finally cracking what had made Jayce so unstable seemed to have... worked. Of course, the impulses were still there. The urges. But they were no longer amplified. No longer being dragged to the front of his mind. His... obsession had even been... recovering. He'd been... good company. Viktor stiffened a little, his hands tightening on his cane. Jayce had improved so much. What if just seeing him again was...? What if it was too much for Jayce?? He'd made a name for himself here. Possibly even secured a good reputation. Viktor glanced up at Jayce's face on the poster. He didn't... want to ruin this for him. Not after seeing what Jayce could be behind his violent impulses. The good he could do. But even still... that word flashed in his mind. "Beloved." Viktor murmured to himself with a furrowed brow. No, he had to know why it was that. And he... he had to thank Jayce. A gift of a proper grave? For a Zaunite who did not deserve it? Viktor was spurred forward, starting to walk through the streets again. He furrowed his brow. He would have to trust where everyone else seemed to be going. Once again, he was thankful for his state, considering how many times he kept coming to a dead stop in his tracks. People could just go straight through him. Viktor was so anxious, he felt sick. He could see the crowd filing into a venue and he paused. There was... a faint, faint thrumming that he could feel inside. Whatever it was had to be of Jayce's creation. A Hextech contraption or something of the sort. Only those crystals gave off that kind of aura for Viktor. He had to bite back his panic as he moved forward again. He walked right past the Enforcers at the front, fazing through the doors and stepping into the wide open arena. That podium was on the stage, but there were no stairs for Heimerdinger to climb up to it this time. Good gods, there were so many people here. Viktor remembered why he usually stayed backstage. People were chattering around him and he watched as the Piltover elites all started to scrounge around for their seating. Viktor moved forward, heading down the side aisle. Near the front, he could see familiar, but powerful faces. For the first time, Heimerdinger was now a face in the crowd. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and he glanced up at the podium. He tore his gaze away, heading off to the side as far as he could get. The entire time, he could feel that thrumming from behind the massive curtain. What had Jayce made?? It felt more powerful than a crystal. He almost wanted to just take a look himself since he knew he could. However, he resigned himself to standing next to one of the pillars off to the very side of a seating section. He gave a small sigh through his nose. Viktor glanced over the crowd again. There were so many people. Would Jayce be alright? There was Cassandra. She was seated up with Heimerdinger. Mel was in the front row. There was... Skye. She was closer to the back. Viktor... recognized a lot of these people. He didn't remember their names, but he remembered their faces. His old classmates. Were these all the people that had been...? Viktor crinkled his nose a bit. Good gods, he would've lost it if he had to go up on stage and give a speech to these people. He paused as the lights dimmed in the venue. Viktor hesitated. It wasn't enough for him to become visible, which made him relax. He gripped his cane tightly again before flinching as the venue erupted into loud clapping. He glanced up. Jayce was dressed in a well-tailored white and gold suit with red adornments and accents. He was clean-shaven and his hair was neatly styled. He had a bright look in his eyes and wore a smile that actually didn't seem... forced. He was clearly trying to hold good posture, even if it was a little awkward. Viktor could see Mel roll her eyes in exasperation in the front row. When Jayce started speaking, Viktor could hear the nerves in his voice. However, despite this, he powered through it. Viktor furrowed his brow, able to feel the thrumming from behind the curtain. Something was there. What did Jayce create?? Viktor paused before moving from next to the pillar. He crept across the floor, his cane muffled against a carpeted surface. He paused, standing next to the front row. Jayce had gone silent. Viktor's eyes widened and he glanced up, meeting his gaze. Jayce's eyes were wide before he quickly cleared his throat and apologized to the room for losing his train of thought. He continued his speech, but his gaze kept moving back to Viktor. Viktor hadn't thought Jayce would be able to see him, but he also hadn't realized that piece of crystal was still embedded in his ear until Jayce had turned his head. Viktor suddenly became aware of another pair of eyes. He just barely managed to glance to the side, seeing Mel's wide eyes on him. Viktor quickly averted his gaze. He looked back up at Jayce, who had frozen again. His gaze was somewhere else. He seemed like he'd been about to gesture to the curtain, but Viktor followed his gaze up to Heimerdinger's clear look of disapproval. Jayce awkwardly diverted the gesture. He began to talk about a brightened future and continuous prosperity. As someone who'd watched Jayce attend his classes everyday for a year, Viktor could tell when the other was just desperately scraping words together to sound pretty. He'd just had to diverge from his planned speech. In the end, it still worked. The crowd burst out in applause and cheering, Viktor flinching away. He startled as Mel moved past him, shooting him quite the glance. Like she was accusing him of something. Some kind of suspicion. Was it because he'd distracted Jayce? What did he do?? He hadn't even seen her in years. Viktor glanced up at the stage. He knew Jayce would hold up the theatrics a little longer. His gaze drifted behind him to the banners. He tipped his head curiously. That symbol... looked like a hammer. Really? Like the hammer Jayce had slightly traumatized Sevika and part of Zaun with years ago? Viktor could only wonder. And he... Was that a House symbol?? The other must've been the Kirammans, but did Jayce have his own...? Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips. Jayce finally backed up, giving one more bow. His eyes met Viktor's again before he disappeared behind the curtain. Viktor paused. His hand tightened on his cane. Could he...? Was Jayce expecting him to follow?? Viktor glanced at the rest of the bustling venue. Even if he knew no one could see him, to walk up on the stage would be... His hands shook a little. He gathered his wits before moving forward. He hesitantly made his way to the side steps. Three steps upwards. Three steps forward. Three steps upwards. Viktor froze up as he settled on the stage. While part of it was the fear of being so exposed, the other... He could feel such a heavy thrumming from behind the curtain. It was shaking his chest. He hesitated before moving forward. He fazed through the curtain before flinching. The pounding in the back of his skull erupted into a violent ache. Viktor quickly reached behind him and there was a loud crunch as he broke that area of his skull in to quickly relieve the pressure. He made a shaky noise, his hand moving to his mouth. He felt... horrifyingly solid. He glanced up. There was a glass case in front of him. The Kiramman Crest was emblazoned on the front. Inside was a blue orb. It looked like a Hex Crystal, but instead of the opaque surface Viktor had grown accustomed to, this one had a clean, glassy look. He could swear he saw the blue inside swirling like a galaxy. That's where the thrumming came from. It was... different. He tore his gaze from it as he felt something wet run down from his nose. His shoulders sank as he cupped his hand under his face. He glanced around the backstage area. The orb didn't seem to be bothering anyone but him. Maybe they didn't hear the thrumming like he did. Where was Jayce? Viktor scanned over the room, holding his sleeve up to his nose. He didn't see him. Maybe... Maybe Jayce had fled. Maybe Viktor had been right. Seeing him was likely too much for Jayce. He shouldn't have... He shouldn't have come. He turned away from the orb, quickly making his way into a side hallway. He followed it as far as he could so the thrumming became distant before stopping and leaning back against the wall. Ugh. He squeezed his eyes shut as he slid down it, his cane clattering to the floor. Good gods, why had his head already...? Viktor had to reach back and break his skull open again, relieving the pressure twice now. It never usually grew back that fast. Was it a result of that orb?? He... Viktor paused as he saw his arm. Something was glowing beneath his shirt sleeve and he had a funny feeling he already knew what it was. He reached out, holding his sleeve down. The outline of the webbing was glowing through it. Luckily, it hadn't seemed to spread and it didn't exactly hurt, but it was... It was illuminated now? Viktor furrowed his brow. Whatever that was, Viktor wasn't built to be near it. He... He buried his head in his hand. He shouldn't have come. He'd likely just threatened Jayce's stability and now that orb was affecting his. Viktor started to push himself to his feet, using the wall behind him. However, when he tried to materialize his cane, he almost fell forward when it fizzled out of existence. Something caught him. Someone caught him. Viktor froze up as he heard that vaguely amused voice overlying a tone of concern. "Am I interrupting?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor was never one to be lost for words twice in a single week. But here he was. He didn't know if he was even able to stand. He paused as he felt more liquid running down his face, quickly pulling back from Jayce. "I-I am going to bleed on you." He warned, holding him out at arms length. To both his shock and exasperation, Jayce simply moved forward, Viktor's arm through his chest. He wrapped Viktor in a light hug, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Viktor paused. This wasn't working. "O-One moment." He stepped forward and Jayce's body gave a shudder as he slipped inside. However, instead of pushing him down, or even off to the side, Viktor pulled Jayce's manifestation against him, squeezing his eyes shut. He felt Jayce stiffen before his arms were back around Viktor and he could actually hold him.
Gods, I'm holding him!
Did he come to see me?? Why is he here? Is he okay??
I missed him. I can't tell if he's been well. He always looks like this.
Wait, can he hear me?
Viktor managed a small smile, his soft laugh seeming to scare away all the strings that had gathered around them. "I can hear you, Jayce." He said quietly. Instantly, Jayce averted his gaze, quickly shooing all the strings away from them before saying that he didn't know what Viktor was talking about. "...You have been well?? The... The urges?" He glanced up at him uncertainly. Jayce blinked before avoiding his gaze. "They're still there. In the back of my mind, they're always there." He sighed before managing a smile. "But I've been... I've, uh, been controlling them much better. I think so, at least." Viktor glanced around. He didn't see any of the violent thoughts that Jayce had previously kept in Binds. Viktor pulled away from him, his brow furrowed. He asked if seeing him was too much. "A-At first. But now I'm just..." Jayce looked him over. "...I'm so happy to see you again." He sounded weakened. It brought a warmth to Viktor's chest. "Did you come to see the speech?" "I was informed you were speaking, but I mostly came for a different reason." Viktor replied quietly. Jayce furrowed his brow. He clearly wanted to reach out to Viktor again, but he wouldn't.
Does he know??
Viktor jumped as a single string bumped his shoulder. He paused, glancing over at it. "Yesterday... I visited my grave again." It was as if he'd summoned a swarm, strings suddenly erupting all around them. Jayce only seemed embarrassed by them. Viktor gave a soft chuckle. He stepped backwards out of Jayce's body. The other's face flushed, but he kept himself upright, only allowing a small breath to escape him. Viktor leaned back against the wall. He hesitated before materializing his cane. Luckily, it stayed this time. "It... It looked different." "Do you hate it??" Jayce's question was instant and anxious. The suddenness of the question startled Viktor. He paused before saying that he felt it was a little too much. Jayce blinked. "What do you mean?? I, uh, I tried to keep it as simple as possible." He looked confused and Viktor stared at him. His hands tightened on his cane as he looked to the side. "...'Beloved'?" He asked in a questioning, prompting tone. Jayce stared at him before his ears went red."Th-That was just the recommendation!" Jayce exclaimed. Well, Viktor could tell better than anyone that Jayce was lying. "Th-The Professor thought it was a good word." The panic Jayce displayed dissuaded him from pressing further about it. Viktor spoke again, saying he hadn't needed to do that much for him. "I did. You... You saved me. I couldn't let you just... lay in the mud next to a polluted river. You don't deserve that. You deserved better." Jayce sounded firm as he spoke. He kept stretching out his hand, but he would forcibly pull it back. Viktor took note as Jayce held his hands behind his back, though one was holding the other by the wrist. Viktor raised a brow at this. "I... I'm trying to be less... touchy. I wasn't sure how to... how to seem friendlier. Now Mel says I'm being too friendly. I'm... at a loss on what to do exactly." Jayce admitted. Over two years freed from that Rune, yet Jayce was still struggling to appear normal. Viktor expected nothing less. "Your, uh... merchandise... keeps washing down into Zaun." Viktor said, a smile tugging at his lips. Jayce paused before glancing away. He said that he'd thought he looked good on all that stuff. "Mm. On the poster outside the venue, it appears misprinted. Your eyes looked crossed." Viktor almost laughed at the look of horror that appeared on Jayce's face as he said that they didn't. "They did. I assume there was a printing error." Viktor finally broke out in quiet laughter as Jayce buried his face in his hand before groaning that, of course, it had to be the biggest one that had a misprint. Viktor tipped his head. "The, uh, Man of Progress, hm?" Jayce replied that he hadn't come up with the name. Viktor sighed quietly before glancing back in the direction of the thrumming. "That thing... what is it? I believe it made me start bleeding.""It's a stabilized Hex Crystal. I call it a Gemstone. It won't... explode upon any kind of fracturing or impact. I designed it to be stronger than the crystals. More resilient." He paused as Viktor spoke, saying that he assumed Jayce couldn't hear that noise it was making. "No... Is it bad? Should I be worried?" Viktor replied that it was just a soft strumming. Similar to music, but it if someone strummed the same chord over and over and over. In a way, it was slightly... infuriating. But for now, it was at least tolerable. Distant. "If that's what that one sounds like, I... guess I can't show you what I've been working on. That's the... That's the simplest one." Jayce sighed. "And you've been... I mean... you seem like you've been well without me." He gestured to him before glancing aside. "I-I mean that in a... a non-envious way." Viktor murmured that he knew."I always look like this, Jayce. It is close to impossible for me not to." Viktor stated in vague amusement at the awkward subject change. "...I somewhat miss your snoring. It was like reading by the rapids. Something loud and terrifying that could be turned into background noise." Viktor smiled as Jayce rolled his eyes. "I did miss you, Jayce. I often wondered how you were." He glanced him over. "It seems everything is going well for you. Is that your own House Crest?" He reached up to the adornments on his shoulders, gently tapping his finger against one. Jayce instantly lit up in pride, saying that it was. "Quite distinguished." There Jayce's eyes went. Darting around again. Viktor tipped his head. Jayce's eyes only did that when... "Jayce. What is the want?"
It would be the same two questions everytime Viktor could see Jayce struggling with some kind of urge. Jayce's hands visibly tightened and he glanced aside again. "I, uh..." "You've told me worse things, Jayce. All things that you wanted to do to me, I might add. I can handle it." Viktor reminded him with a raised brow. Jayce's shoulders sank and he nodded before forcing himself to straighten up again. "I... want the way you used to look at me. With apprehension. Uncertain of what I may do next. What my thoughts or motivations were. Watching you... scramble to understand me was something... thrilling." Jayce seemed to struggle to admit it a little. "I... want to see the fear in your eyes again." Viktor looked him over quietly. "And what would you like?" Viktor asked next. Even if Jayce had been snarky about it, Viktor had learned that his 'wants' and 'likes' were, in fact, two vastly different things. It really was about technicalities with him. Jayce blinked before straightening up, giving a weak smile. "I like the way you look at me now. You look proud of me now and you don't look at me like I'm some... horrifying monster anymore. I like that... you can understand me and I like that you came to see my speech." Jayce seemed more embarrassed to say these things than he was about his other thought. "That you, uh, you came to see me." He did sound quietly overjoyed beneath his words. Viktor stared at him, his chest warm, before smiling. He gestured back in the direction of the stage. "Why did you not present the Gemstone?" He asked curiously. Jayce paused before looking off to the side again.
"I was... going to, with Cassandra and Mel's endorsement, but the Professor warned me against it. I... think I may have just put myself in a bad place with Mel." Jayce admitted. Viktor asked him what the point of the Gemstone was, hoping to distract him from a negative train of thought. "The Gemstone is a stabilized version of the crystal. It's so everyone can use it without risk. I wanted to... give it to the people. But Heimerdinger believed that to be... too dangerous. Says I'll need at least another decade before I can, uh, safeguard it." Jayce sighed quietly. Viktor glanced back in the direction of the stage, able to hear the thrumming. "I can see why he would be wary. Well, I..." He gestured to his ears. "I can hear why he would be wary. That Gemstone is powerful." He looked Jayce over. "You were trying to help the people, Jayce. I know. All part of your Hextech dream, no?" He spoke playfully and Jayce glanced up at him in surprise before giving a quiet laugh. "The Hextech dream." Jayce clarified. Viktor rolled his eyes, saying it was already obviously the next big thing. "But it could be bigger. Better. There are things I can do with this that... push the boundaries of our limits. It's... terrifying, but thrilling." Jayce glanced up at him. "I... take it you aren't going to be staying much longer though." Viktor hadn't been planning on it, but he tipped his head curiously. "What I want to show you is back at the lab." Viktor paused. He glanced back again before replying that just walking near the Gemstone had made him bleed. "Then possess me. You can't hear it in my head, right?" Jayce sounded a little too eager and Viktor paused before raising a brow. Instantly, Jayce's ears tinted red. "Mm, I see that look." Repeating Jayce's old phrase back to him seem to make him freeze up. "Almost two years without possession and you're nearly losing it?" Viktor finally teased. Jayce's redness spread from his ears to his face and he stated that wasn't what it was. "Yes, of course, a thrill. I know." Jayce instantly protested again and Viktor rolled his eyes, giving a smile. He waved him off dismissively. "I'll indulge you." "Clearly won't stop judging me anytime soon." Jayce muttered, glancing away. Viktor chuckled. "Of course not."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor remained a passenger in Jayce's mind as the other moved down the hall, returning to the backstage. He was doing his best to ignore all the strings, like Jayce had pleaded him to, but it was a little difficult with how close they kept moving. Viktor tipped his head. He playfully stretched out a hand, brushing his hand through one of them.
I didn't think he'd join me. I thought he'd just want to go back. I wonder if he'll like it. He... probably won't.
Viktor pulled his hand back, crossing his arms back up with a small brow raise. Jayce certainly seemed excited about this. He was curious as to what it was now, although it also brought him some slight concern. Why would Jayce think he wouldn't like it? What was it? As they entered the backstage area, Viktor didn't feel the aggressive thrumming of the Gemstone and it relieved him. Both of them jumped as Mel suddenly appeared in front of them, her hand gently placed on Jayce's chest. "Mel! Mel, I apologize for not presenting the Gemstone, but Professor Heimerdinger-" "Where is he? I saw him." Mel interrupted gently, though her voice remained firm. Jayce paused before his gaze averted and he started to speak. "Jayce. Is he with you?" Viktor furrowed his brow. What would she want with him? She didn't even seem to like him. Jayce was quiet for a moment before raising a hand and vaguely gesturing to himself. "Viktor. I have to speak with you." Mel blinked before giving a sigh. "Please." Viktor hesitated. He paused as Jayce's manifestation materialized next to him, seeming slightly intimidated. He gestured and Viktor sighed, moving forward. He took control of the body and he paused as he saw something move along the rafters above. His body went cold as Jinx carefully pulled up her longer braid so it wasn't dangling down. Her eyes were scanning over the area quietly. "Viktor." Mel's voice made him jump and he saw Jinx look towards them. "Is there a way for Jayce to not hear us?" Viktor paused before he nodded, pushing Jayce deep down into his subconscious. He spoke, saying Jayce couldn't hear them now. Mel and Jinx both wrinkled their noses and Viktor rolled his eyes, making a vague, dismissive gesture. "Yes, the accent does not... mix well with his voice. I know this. What do you have to say?" Viktor stated. Jinx's eyes were wide and Viktor knew this was the first time she would've seen him piloting a body. At the very least, she seemed to understand that it was him. Mel seemed taken back by his words before saying it would do him good to watch his tone. "I am dead, Councilor. Any time I listen to someone now is out of respect and courtesy." Viktor replied flatly. "Which you have yet to show me as well." Mel scoffed and Viktor saw Jinx snicker up in the rafters. She asked where Jayce was taking him. "Jayce would like to show me something back at his lab. He seems quite excited about it." Jinx was seen furrowing her brow from above."Well, I hate to be the spoiler of surprises, but I fear he plans to return with you." Mel stated, her hands clasped in front of herself. Viktor paused. "It is clear to me he holds... affections and he has been waiting to see you again for quite some time." Affections? Viktor furrowed his brow, replying that it wasn't what those feelings were. "Is that so? What would you call them?" Mel asked flatly. "He seems quite open about what he believes they are." Of course. Of course, this was one of the things Viktor had been worried about ever since... that night and it did make him slightly dreadful that he finally had to address it. "...Obsession. He had developed it upon our first meeting. It was at its worst during our years together and it was only recently quelled. I hate to also be a bearer of bad news for him, but I fear he may be confusing his toxic fascination with me for affection." Viktor raised a hand to his head with a sigh. "I would dare say we... are friends as of now. But if you are concerned I'd let the relationship develop further, I would not be. I do not plan on staying once he has shown me what he is excited about. For my sake, I might ask he stay as well. Which, I'm sure, is what you would prefer." Mel replied that she would much prefer it, seeing how much Jayce had to offer. "I cannot lose my finest investment. I have already had to corral him several times before. He has risked the good graces of the Council... several times, I may add." Viktor shook his head, saying that it didn't surprise him. "The entire Council is aware and... tolerant of your presence, though I am not sure all of them quite believe it. We had to reveal this information due to how often Jayce spoke of you. How often he speaks of Zaun." Mel sighed. "I had to keep him from near maiming Councilor Salo for his comment that the only good person he knew in Zaun was a dead man." Viktor's brows raised and he shook his head as he inhaled sharply through his teeth. Good gods, what a thing to say to someone like Jayce. Mel seemed to take notice of his expression and give an exasperated nod. "It has been... quite... lively, but he is in our good graces for right now. If he abandons Piltover now..." Viktor sighed. "Forgive me, Councilor, but I dare say Zaun would quite benefit from technology like his. Jayce works best when he is in a place he likes. And if he wants to join me instead of remaining here, I fear his work may become... subpar if he is forced to stay." Viktor tipped his head. Mel narrowed her eyes at him, saying she had plans for Jayce. "Do tell." Viktor didn't really... care and it seemed Mel took note of that. Her hands tightened in front of her in slight frustration. "I could potentially enlist his help in... cooperating with Zaun." Mel spoke and Viktor blinked in surprise. Jinx had frozen up in the rafters, sharing a second-long glance with Viktor. Viktor furrowed his brow and met Mel's eyes, clarifying that it was only if he got Jayce to stay. "Indeed." "Jayce... does not handle rejection well, Councilor. I can try to reason with him about his perceived affections, but... how do you plan to deal with the consequences?" Viktor wasn't sure she quite understood the scope of what she was asking him to do. And it was confirmed as Mel raised a brow, asking if Viktor really thought they'd need a contingency plan. "You may need several." Viktor replied, scanning her over. "Up to this point, Jayce has controlled his urges and impulses, albeit barely on some occasions, but this may prove... to truly bring out the worst in him." Mel didn't seem like she believed that it was so serious, but she gave a nod. "May I know where his lab is?" Mel replied that it was in the Academy building on the second floor. Viktor glanced up at Jinx, who gave a small thumbs-up. "Thank you, Councilor. I pray you are able to handle the outcome." Viktor finally moved around Mel, heading back towards the curtain. Three seconds to leave her sight. He stopped on the stage. Three seconds to bring Jayce back up and step off to the side in his mind. Jayce took control of his body again. "...What did Mel want?" He asked, his voice curious. Viktor replied that Mel had informed him that the Council knew of Viktor's presence and that Jayce had been causing them trouble over it. "I... It wasn't exactly-" Viktor stated that Mel had mentioned him almost attacking another Councilor. "I... The thing he said just... drew everything bad to the front of my mind. I was..." Jayce trailed off quietly. "...I've gotten better." Viktor made a small noise of acknowledgment, though he did sound in slight disbelief. "I have!" Jayce slipped out of the venue and making his way down the street even proved to be a tedious enough task for him. Viktor settled down as he watched numerous people come up to congratulate or praise Jayce for his speech. Thank him for the prosperity the Hexgates had brought to Piltover. Jayce seemed very good at feigning modesty, though Viktor could tell he was very proud of himself. He rolled his eyes. He could also sense a creeping... irritation. Annoyance. Jayce was eager to get back to the lab. His responses and thanks started to get more curt and Viktor spoke quietly. "Patience, Jayce. They are happy for you. I will still be here when they all disperse." Jayce seemed to give the smallest sigh through his nose before continuing to speak to the small crowd that had gathered. Viktor tuned himself out, instead raising his arm. He unbuttoned his sleeve, rolling it down. The glowing that the webbing had emitted while he was near the Gemstone had faded. However... Viktor furrowed his brow. Before, the webbing had been surface level. Something spread over his skin. Now, it seemed... Viktor reached up, tracing his fingers over it. The webbing seemed like it had sunken into the skin. It resembled a healed burn. Viktor really wasn't sure he liked that. When he pressed too hard, his skin would release a small glow. No, he... he didn't like that at all. In the time they'd been apart, maybe Jayce had found something out about this. Viktor rolled his sleeve back up, buttoning it once more. He would have to show Jayce once they'd reached the lab.Admittedly, it did take a while for the crowd to disperse. Strings kept violently appearing and disappearing around Viktor, him glancing back to watch them. By the time Jayce had managed to wiggle away from the remaining people, Viktor had been surrounded by strings. They all started to move away, Jayce assumedly pushing them to the back of his mind as he took a breath to calm himself. "Jayce, my boy!" Viktor nearly started to laugh as Jayce internally groaned at Heimerdinger's voice. He put on a calm face and turned to look at the other, folding his hands behind his back. "You made a good choice. I know you were excited to show it off, but that kind of power needs to be fine tuned before it can lay in the hands of a citizen." Viktor felt Jayce's annoyance melt away as he seemed to decide it was a conversation worth having."Do you truly believe it will take a decade, Professor? I would dare say I have a little more faith in myself than that." Jayce said, furrowing his brow. Heimerdinger shook his head. He clarified that it would take a decade at the most and that, he too, had faith that Jayce would be able to safeguard it sooner than that. Good gods, like Jayce's ego needed that. "I just... think giving magic to the people would bring more benefit than consequence. We don't know how many bright minds are waiting." Jayce sounded eager as he spoke and Heimerdinger gave a small chuckle, his ears twitching. "Your excitement is refreshing! I know you'll solve it. Once it is truly safe, only then can we trust the people. I do have faith in you and I would like to support you, but we can't get too ahead of ourselves!" Heimerdinger's voice became warning as he held up a finger. Jayce blinked before nodding. He gave an apology, saying he'd just been... hopeful. "I know, lad. Just a little more time. A few more tweaks." Heimerdinger assured him. "You did well today." Viktor felt a smile tug at his lips as Jayce's pride filled his chest. He watched as Heimerdinger turned, scampering away. Jayce turned and started moving down the streets again. The Academy building soon came into view. "If I spend much longer in here, I might become crushed by your ego." Viktor commented aloud. He heard Jayce give an offended-sounding scoff. Students greeted him as he moved down the hall, some lending him congratulations. Jayce soon came to a stop in front of a door and, as he fiddled with the keys, Viktor had paused. He could feel a... dragging sensation. Like gravity had increased drastically the moment they'd stopped outside the door. He didn't... think it was him either. He furrowed his brow uncertainly, slowly pushing himself to his feet. Jayce opened the door to the lab and Viktor gave a small shudder as the feeling suddenly seemed to pull right at his chest. What exactly... did Jayce have in here?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor almost ejected himself from Jayce's body, making the other shiver and stumble forward. Viktor materialized his cane quickly just so he could hold it. He furrowed his brow, looking around the lab. The only light came from a large, false window that mimicked the daytime outside. Viktor raised his hand to his torso, digging his fingers into his vest. What was causing that dragging feeling?? What was that?? He didn't even realize he was shaking until Jayce asked him what was wrong. "What have you created? There is... a heaviness to the room. Something... constricting." Viktor replied. He was scanning over the room in confusion. Jayce sounded slightly confused as well, saying it hadn't even been activated yet. "What hasn't??" "Viktor." Jayce sounded worried and Viktor finally looked over at him. Jayce was watching him in both concern and confusion. "Maybe I, uh, maybe I shouldn't show you if you're already... freaked out like this." He did sound slightly disappointed and Viktor hesitated before asking what it was. "I made an energy source. Not like the crystals, but something bigger. Theoretically, it could... power the entire city if I needed it to." Jayce was trying not to sound as proud of it and Viktor wondered if it was because he was clearly shaken. Viktor wasn't sure what to do. "I was going to activate it for the first time today and, now that you're here, I was... hoping you'd get to see it." Viktor watched him. Jayce had become awkward and uncertain. It seems like his plan had been completely derailed, as had his excitement. Viktor felt... bad. "...If the Gemstone alone made me start bleeding and forced the corruption down into my skin, I am unsure it is wise for me to be around something... bigger." Viktor admitted. He paused as Jayce asked what had happened to the corruption. Viktor held up his arm, starting to unbutton his sleeve. "The warping was surface level before, but when I came close to the Gemstone, it all illuminated and did... this." Viktor showed off his scarred arm to Jayce, the other moving over with wide eyes. His brow immediately furrowed. He asked if it hurt at all and Viktor replied that the pain had ceased entirely. "It used to draw pain if I would press too close to the entry points, but now it has gone away entirely. Admittedly, this should be a good thing, but I... remain uncertain." He blinked as Jayce turned and moved away. The other came back with a journal and Viktor raised a brow before rolling his eyes in slight exasperation as Jayce started to sketch out his arm. "Have you discovered anything about this in your time here?" "This pattern only appears on things directly touched by the Arcane itself. I, uh, must've been protected because the Rune was inside the leather band. You had the magic tied... directly to your... skin." His voice seemed to become slightly strained with guilt and he glanced off to the side as the pen gave a tremor. His eyes quickly flitted back to the journal and he cleared his throat. "S-Sorry." Viktor waved his hand quietly. Jayce always became slightly unsteady when he spoke of what he'd done to him before. Viktor let out a small breath, glancing around again. Talking like this was at least distracting him from the heaviness. His eyes finally fell upon the desk and he furrowed his brow. There was a stand on the desk, with some sort of... shape resting in the center of it. Viktor wasn't too sure, since the feeling was surrounding him on all sides, but... That may have been the source. Jayce moved away from him, seeming like he was going to go compare the sketch to one of his other journals. Viktor buttoned up his sleeve. Three steps to reach the desk. Three seconds of bated breath. Three seconds to study. There were papers scattered all over the floor in front of the desk. The shape itself seemed to be several pieces slotted together. Geometric design. But it was... Viktor stared at it quietly. The whole thing seemed to be carved with different Runes. He tipped his head. All of the Runes were associated with either Sorcery or Domination. Magic and power. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. Even deactivated, it could let off such a feeling? It felt like it was deadening the air around it. "Jayce? Is this your energy source?" He asked aloud, turning to look over at him. Jayce glanced up before excitement immediately filled his eyes again. He instantly stopped whatever he'd been writing, dropping the pen and moving over. "Yes! Yes, it's... it's called the Hexcore." Jayce said, smiling. His smile faltered and he still seemed uncertain. "What's... your thoughts on it?" Viktor studied it over again before reaching out and gesturing. "It seems to be pulling in the very air around it. This is is where the, uh, the heaviness is coming from. I assume you do not feel it like I do." Viktor glanced over and Jayce shook his head. "It feels like everything is being... drawn in. I imagine it similar to a black hole, but of a microscopic caliber." It was the best way Viktor could describe it. "...You haven't created a black hole, have you??" "No! No, it should actually let off energy, not pull it in. Perhaps this is what it does in a dead state." Jayce sounded both confused and intrigued. Viktor tipped his head at the resting Hexcore. He finally spoke, saying he would like to see it activated. That seemed to catch Jayce's attention and he stared at him in slight disbelief. "...Really?" Viktor nodded. He had to admit that he was genuinely intrigued by something that seemed to manipulate the very gravity around it, even in a completely deactivated state. "Aren't you afraid of it, uh... affecting you?" Viktor paused. Even though he had felt a bit of the heaviness even inside Jayce's body, it had still been muted. "Will you hide me if it starts to? Everything I feel is dampened when I am a passenger." Viktor glanced at him uncertainly. Jayce blinked before replying that he would. "I... believe it should be fine then." Viktor backed away from it as Jayce moved forward. He asked if Viktor was sure about it, reaching out and picking up some goggles. "I am sure." Jayce pulled on some thick-looking gloves that had been resting on the desk before moving to the stand. Viktor could hear him tinkering with the small pieces inside. There was a faint sliding and clicking noise. Viktor assumed he was moving the shape inside. Jayce stated aloud that he was securing the four Gemstones placed within the stand. Four?? And Viktor hadn't felt any of them?? Was the Hexcore pulling in that much around it?? Jayce slowly pulled his hands back. "...It'll get bright in here. Will you be alright?" Jayce asked, looking back at him as he lifted his goggles. There was a blue glow vaguely emitting from inside the stand now. Viktor furrowed his brow before nodding, saying the most it would do was make him completely invisible to even Jayce's eyes. Jayce pulled his goggles back down before seeming to activate something on either side of the stand. There was a loud hiss and Jayce backed up. Viktor hesitantly moved so he would be able to step forward into Jayce if something went awry. He watched as the stand began to crackle, the shape inside lighting up blue with electricity. The Runes all began to glow and Viktor tensed up. The shape had started to rise from its resting position. The individual pieces were sliding and twitching. The whole... The whole shape seemed like it was distorting with every twitch. For some reason, Viktor suddenly... couldn't hear a thing. Not from the shape, but it was like his hearing had been shut off completely. He hesitantly raised his fingers next to his ear and snapped them. He... heard nothing. The sound seemed to have startled Jayce, who turned to look at him. Viktor only snapped his fingers again, struggling to hear something. He jumped as Jayce moved his arm in front of him, seeming to guide Viktor behind him. The shape was violently distorting now, seeming like it was glitching the very fabric of reality. The whole stand seemed like it was violently rattling as electricity wound around it like snakes. Viktor moved behind Jayce, severing his view of it.Viktor startled as a blast of energy suddenly knocked him straight back and his cane clattered to the floor as his ears popped. His vision blurred and all he could see was blue for a moment. He squeezed his eyes shut and shook his head, trying to clear his eyes. "Viktor?? Hey, are you okay??" He could hear Jayce's worried voice and glanced up as the other's face came into view. He'd pulled the goggles down to hang around his neck. Viktor... wasn't hearing any thrumming. No... noise. He furrowed his brow before asking if it had activated. Jayce blinked before stepping aside. Viktor stared at the stand. The Hexcore was glowing as it spun, seeming comfortably suspended within the stand. Jayce had started smiling as he watched it. "It... isn't hurting me?" Viktor was slightly baffled by that. Anything Jayce had created or used with that kind of glow had always affected him poorly in some way. To be frank, he was completely shocked he was fine. Jayce seemed just as startled, asking if he really didn't feel anything. "No... I went deaf for a minute, but that was all." Viktor had to materialize his cane back to his hands so he could lean on it. Jayce scanned him over again, seeming doubtful. "It is not hurting me. I... feel fine." Viktor couldn't help how disbelieving he sounded. He glanced up. "Usually your inventions hurt me just from standing near them. This is..." He raised his hand. His nose wasn't bleeding. His eyes were fine. Ears were fine. He was genuinely taken back. Jayce blinked before rolling his eyes and saying he didn't need to look that shocked. Viktor shot him a flat look. "Try to argue." His gaze moved to the Hexcore and he furrowed his brow. He finally steeled himself. Three steps forward. He heard Jayce immediately state for him to be careful. Viktor tipped his head. Three steps forward. To his surprise, the Hexcore seemed to slightly edge away from him as he stood in front of the desk, like they were the polar ends of a magnet. He lifted a hand, the Hexcore keeping the same distance between them when he moved his hand forward a little. "...It is being pushed away from me." He told Jayce, his brow furrowed. Jayce had turned away, rooting through another cabinet. It seemed like he was looking for something. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He shuffled his feet and one of his shoes settled on a piece of paper. Viktor couldn't help the swear that left his throat as the Hexcore suddenly seemed to perk up, blue electricity rearing up around the whole stand. He wasn't sure what sound he made as it suddenly struck him, sending the magic painfully spiraling down his body. He squeezed his eyes shut, swearing again as it felt like fire was ripping through his skeleton. There was a loud crack and he lost vision in his left eye. His head had caved in and he raised his hand to his head in shock as the fire died down. He was left feeling raw and shaken. His breathing was heavy. He could vaguely hear someone calling out his name. He tried to back away, even if his cane seemed like it had been ripped straight from his hands. There was a metallic rattle and Viktor's eye widened. He stared down at the blue chains embedded in his legs. "J-Jayce??" The papers he'd been standing on had the Binding Rune sketched over and over and over. Feverishly. Consistently. All of them were glowing bright. His body went cold and he turned to look back at the other. Where...? He paused as he heard retching from what appeared to be a bathroom. Oh, right. Viktor quickly reached up. He kept the cracking to a minimum as he pulled his skull back out, reshaping it. He squeezed his eye shut and shook his head. Slowly, vision returned to his left eye and he blinked a few times. He glanced back down. Had Jayce really sketched all of these?? Good gods, was this some kind of withdrawal?? He heard Jayce finally leave the bathroom, though his face was still pale. "Jayce. There appears to be a problem." Jayce stared at the papers in shock, asking what had happened. He seemed to become distracted and moved away. Viktor sighed. "You drew the Binding Rune on these. How long did this take you?? This... looks like addiction." Jayce sounded embarrassed as he replied that he wasn't addicted. "Jayce. We separated it from you for a reason. It's been over a year since you saw it last." "I know. I know, I just... I've had it since I was a child, Viktor. It's not that easy to just get it out of my head. Not with how I am. You know that." Jayce sounded resigned and defeated. Viktor sighed through his nose, turning his gaze back down to the chains. He could hear Jayce sliding things open behind him. At least these Binds would be easy to remove. They just had to rip the papers. He glanced up at the Hexcore, which seemed like it had settled. Viktor was somewhat annoyed with it, but he was impressed that it had managed to activate drawn Runes with its energy alone. He asked if Jayce could rip the papers for him. "One moment." "Jayce, I cannot move." Viktor spoke in slight irritation before turning to look back. He froze up. His body had gone cold again, but the type of chill that locked up every vertebrae in his spinal cord. Jayce had opened a large part of the wall, revealing a glass case. He could see... a shape inside. Hands. Feet. Legs. Arms. Three seconds of staring. Three seconds to process. Yes, that was... That was his face.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Jayce." Viktor's voice was hushed. Jayce glanced over at him with a mix of sheepishness and defeat. Viktor wasn't sure how pale he looked. Upon closer inspection, it did relieve him to see that the body wasn't made of flesh. At least, not from what he could tell. He could visibly see joints, but it didn't look like it was fully metal either. It looked like Jayce had wrapped each limb in some kind of skin-colored fabric. It was the face that scared Viktor the most. Undeniably and undoubtedly, that was his face. Down to the cheekbones. Down to the moles. It even had his... hair. It was the long hair that he'd started in the Academy with. Jayce had only seen him look like that once, how had he remembered?? The body's eyes were shut. Viktor spoke again, his voice shakier. "Jayce." The other's shoulders sank. "...I knew you wouldn't like it." He almost seemed to mutter it to himself as he raised his hand to his head. "I told you not to do this. I told you I did not need a body." Viktor said, his eyes wide. His tone was shaken and scolding. "Why would you waste resources on this?? How long did this take you to build??" Jayce paused and Viktor stared at him. "Jayce." Jayce scoffed, stating that time or money hadn't been a problem to him. Money?? How much had this...? Viktor paused, his body freezing up. "Was this what you did all that for??" Viktor couldn't help the pained, horrified tone that crept into his voice. "This was what you needed that funding for??" Jayce wouldn't meet his gaze and Viktor's shoulders sank. "Th-This wasn't necessary! Jayce, you didn't have to do any of this!" He was absolutely dismayed. "Why??" Jayce threw his hands to the side in frustration. "Because I couldn't forget how you cried. I couldn't forget how you were absolutely inconsolable for three days after sleeping again. You were overjoyed. I had never seen you that happy and it..." Jayce turned his head away, sighing through his nose. "You were sobbing." He looked defeated. "I know you don't want a body, but I had already gone too far to leave it half-finished." He even sounded defeated. "And it didn't take... that long. At least, not the outside. The sculpting was a little tedious and the... 'skin' took a couple tries to get right, but it wasn't anything impossible. If anything, it was the easiest part of it." Jayce couldn't seem to meet his eyes. Viktor furrowed his brow. The question was on the tip of his tongue and, good gods, he was almost terrified to ask, but... Viktor spoke, asking what the hardest part had been. Jayce paused and Viktor really didn't like that. "...the nervous system." "The WHAT??" Viktor exclaimed in shock, speaking louder than he meant to and making Jayce jump. "Is that why you had my journal??" Jayce froze up, glancing at him. Viktor had never told Jayce that he'd found it, but Viktor didn't care that Jayce knew he had now. "For this?? To build... Good gods, Jayce, don't tell me there are organs in there too!" He held a hand up to his head and his eyes widened as Jayce didn't answer him. "You didn't." Jayce turned away, replying that it was all artificial. "Jayce." That it hadn't taken him that long how to figure out a proper synthetic replacement for each organ. "Jayce." Viktor's voice only became more strained. "None of it is real! I-I didn't hurt anyone and I didn't use anything organic!" Jayce insisted, his eyes wide. "I tried so hard to keep anything organic out of it! Fuck, it would've made the process so much easier if I hadn't, but I knew you would never forgive me for it..." Jayce's shoulders sank. "Everything in it works. It can eat. Drink. Rest. Breathe. All the nerves seem to be working. I..." Jayce turned away, holding his arms tightly. "...At the very least, can you tell me if you're impressed I did it?" Could he...? For a moment, Viktor was taken back by the sheer audacity. The absolute... But... his eyes moved up to what was essentially a living doll of himself. As much as it terrified him and as much as it made him feel sick to his stomach... Jayce had built that? Viktor could feel tears running down his face as he stared at it. He took notice of something else and quickly turned his head away. He stated that it wasn't wearing anything, before following up and asking why Jayce would've built that part of him too. "Well, I mean... you had... ALL your measurements in that journal." Viktor felt exposed and he felt humiliated. He stared down at the floor for a moment, tears running down his face. He glanced up at it again, taking note of the oddities in his leg. It would've been his leg with the bad knee. Jayce seemed to notice him staring. "...It's a brace, built into the leg. If you'd accepted the body, I wasn't sure if your bad knee was going to follow. So I took some precautionary measures." His voice was quiet. Viktor's terrified gaze met his and he finally spoke, asking for Jayce to put it away. When Jayce didn't move, Viktor wasn't asking anymore. He raised his voice, making Jayce flinch as he demanded that he put it away. Jayce sighed, turning away and moving to another cabinet. Viktor turned his head away, holding a hand up to his forehead. He was absolutely shaken. There was a snapping sound that made him jump. It was followed by a click and he glanced back, only to quickly look away in shock. Jayce had opened up the glass case, revealing the body in full. "Jayce! Put that fucking thing away!" Viktor snapped. There was a faint cracking sound as his head started to break again out of stress. "Put it away!!" He could feel the blood start running down his face. Jayce wouldn't look at him as he moved forward. "J-Jayce. Listen to me. Please." Viktor's voice had become strained. He glanced down at the Binds holding his legs. "Please." Jayce furrowed his brow and squeezed his eyes shut. It was clearly paining him to hear Viktor like that, but it didn't seem to be deterring him. He was holding something as he stopped next to the desk. "Jayce." Viktor instantly fell silent, his body locking up. Jayce was holding a finger bone. Ring finger. Right hand. Viktor felt like he was going to be sick. That was his ring finger. His finger bone. Taken from his corpse. His eyes widened as Jayce held it out to the Hexcore and the electricity seemed to snatch the bone straight from his fingers. It seemed to start breaking it down into dust, the particles being dragged inside the shape with a crunching noise similar to one walking on sand. The Hexcore twitched. Once. Twice. Three- The beam of energy that suddenly lit up the room rendered Viktor blind and his whole skeleton was once again set ablaze. He screamed out, feeling the Binds snap from his legs. Something had him by the chest, dragging him backwards. It hurt. Every part of this hurt, it felt like he'd been set on fire. It felt like his skin was festering and melting away. He squeezed his eyes shut and it felt like something was clamping down around him. Throat. Wrists. Ankles. Waist. He was... actually... suffocating?? He was breathing?? Well, no, he wasn't. Viktor felt like needles were sinking into him all over and he gagged as he felt something start to make a noise in his chest. Thumping. Burning. Burning. He could feel things moving. He could feel things inside of him. Viktor's body was spasming and there was a loud, violent pop. For a moment, he was aware of every nerve. Every bone, every joint, every hair, every single individual piece of him. It all went completely numb next and the only thing that he could process was that he was falling forward. He hit the floor hard, and he... he couldn't breathe. He began to drag in soft breaths, but it wasn't nearly enough air to replace what had just been knocked out of him. He could only lay there, unable to move and feeling his breathing get weaker. It wasn't enough air. He wasn't breathing enough. He was vaguely aware of someone speaking to him, but he couldn't process it. All of a sudden, something closed around his throat, cutting off his breathing entirely. It felt like hands. He choked and he began to twitch, trying much harder to pull in air now. He could feel tears welling in his eyes and the pressure suddenly released. Viktor collapsed back to the floor, coughing violently. He began to draw in large gulps of air. That was the air he needed. That was how much he needed to replace the loss. Viktor could only lay on his side, his vision slowly returning. All he could do, however, was stare at the wall. His eyes were wide open and his mouth was parted. He... couldn't... Viktor gagged. He gagged before becoming sick, a transparent liquid spilling over the floor. He coughed, tears finally erupting down his face. He squeezed his eyes shut and he barely managed to turn his head to hide his face against the ground. He could feel everything. Everything. The air was... cold. He felt cold. One by one, his fingers started to slowly curl up until he was clenching his fist. Something was placed over him. Viktor could feel something warm and soft. It scared the hell out of him. He still could barely see and his vision was pulsing. He jumped in shock, nearly freaking out as he felt hands take him by the arms and sit him up. Viktor was left on his knees and he kept almost dropping into a fetal position. He couldn't... That thumping in his chest was so loud. He could feel something being pushed through his body. Pumped. "Ugh..." Viktor gagged again. The hands disappeared from his arms and he slightly dropped to the side. He flinched, pain erupting through him. It felt like... a bruise. Was he bruised?? He couldn't process anything. Not properly. Those hands were felt hesitantly holding his arms again. Someone was speaking to him. Something warm was draped over his shoulders. He had yet to blink and his eyes were watering. He could only stare forward. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds to process. Three seconds to open his mouth. Viktor screamed. And what a scream it was because it caused pain to erupt in his throat and something grabbed him. A hand was felt forcing his mouth shut and he squeezed his eyes shut, continuing to try and scream. It was all muffled, but he didn't care. He choked, his noise cutting off as he felt a hand around his throat again. Something slammed him to the floor and he let out a wheezing shriek as he felt pain erupt from his side. Bruising. Bruising. Tears hadn't stopped running down his face and he could feel hair dangling in it as well. Everything hurt so much. He was losing breath. He was losing vision. He finally, finally managed to lift his arms, trying to pull at the hand around his throat. He couldn't... Fuck, he couldn't grip anything. His fingers wouldn't curl like that. He made a small noise of frustration. He was becoming dizzy. Viktor became vaguely aware of a voice shushing him. His arms lost energy and they dropped to his sides as he stared up at the ceiling with teary eyes. His vision was tunneling and his body went limp as he finally dropped, darkness eating him whole.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Three seconds of silence. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds of silence.
Viktor couldn't move, only staring straight ahead of him. He could see a starry sky. Stretching out in front of him. The ground was reflective and soft, the whole area tinted in purple. It was quiet here. Peaceful here. Wherever here was. He could see his hand laying limp in front of him. It was nothing more than a white silhouette. He slowly flexed each finger. Pointer. Middle. Ring. Pinky. He finally moved his thumb, though it gave an odd little twitch. Across the reflective ground, he could see swirls. Greens, purples, blues. Even some dark pinks. Peaceful. Quiet. He closed his eyes.
Bang!
Bang!
Bang!
Three gunshots. Gunshots?? Viktor's eyes opened. His vision struggled to adjust and he finally... blinked. Even lifting his head a little bit proved to be a struggle. "Viktor!" That voice. His eyes widened and he glanced up, focusing in on blue hair. Blue eyes. Wide eyes. "Viktor, we have to go, come on!" Jinx exclaimed. She seemed slightly panicked as to why he wouldn't get up. She came running over, reaching out before jerking backwards like she'd been stung as her fingers brushed his shoulder. "Oh, fuck, you're real!" Fuck, he was. Viktor's eyes widened. He glanced down. He was wearing a loose white collared shirt and brown pants. There was a belt wrapped around his waist to hold the shirt, as it seemed too big for him. He shakily held up his hands before freezing. Those were... The sleeves were slipped down enough that he could see the Binding Runes carved into his wrists. He jumped as pale hands suddenly grabbed his, tugging at them. "Get up!! Get up, get up!" Right. Right, get up. Get up. Viktor managed to drag one leg under him and he nearly fell as he pushed himself to his feet. Jinx caught him with wide eyes. Viktor finally managed to scan over his surroundings. The lab. The door was thrown open, the knob gone entirely. Jayce was... Viktor stared quietly. Jayce's white suit was stained dark red. He had a bullet in his shoulder and another in his hip. Blood spilled down his face from a cut across his head. He looked unconscious, collapsed on his stomach. Viktor could only stare at him for a moment. All he could taste was the fear in his throat. What had Jayce done? What had he done to him??"Hey!!" Jinx's hand suddenly pat his cheek, making him startle. "We have to go! Do you... Do you think you can walk??" She looked him over uncertainly. Walk?? He had to. They couldn't stay here. Viktor pushed himself forward, wincing as his knee gave an uncomfortable squeeze. He fought through it, stumbling out into the hallway and slamming sideways into the wall as he lost his balance. His hair kept falling in his face. "Here! Lean down!" Jinx had tugged one of her braids around, pulling something off of it. Viktor shakily knelt down and he felt her hands quickly pull his hair back before tying it off in a messy ponytail. Jinx startled, looking down the hall and pulling her gun. She stretched out a hand to Viktor and he took it before jumping as she started to run with him. For a moment, she was really just dragging him, but he started to keep pace. While he couldn't exactly run, he was on his feet at the very least. His... chest was pounding. It was pounding so loudly. His breathing was heavy. Jinx pulled him through the halls and she kept glancing back. Viktor wasn't sure why until he heard yelling. Yelling and the sound of many boots. Lots of boots. Enforcers. "We have to jump!" What?? Viktor turned to look at Jinx with huge eyes. They were headed straight for a window. "Just curl up!" She flung them both towards it and there was the sound of shattering glass. Viktor hit the ground, rolling across the stone with a muffled metallic noise. He ached, but he had to keep going. He glanced around before pushing himself up and moving to Jinx, pulling her to her feet. She grinned up at him, blood running from a cut on her lower lip. "Let's go! Go, go, go!" She grabbed his hand and Viktor was unceremoniously yanked after her again, trying to keep pace once more. Citizens in the streets jerked back from them, Jinx firing her gun in the air to make them scatter. Viktor... recognized this street. The bridge?? The bridge! He could see the Bridge of Progress up ahead and he watched as Jinx dispatched both guarding Enforcers with shots to the legs. They both slipped through the blockades. Oddly enough, the Enforcers that should have been on the other side were nowhere to be found. Viktor had no doubt it was planned. Viktor inhaled shakily as they landed back in Zaun, yelling heard behind them. His leg hurt. His... lungs... hurt. After they'd gone a few blocks, he couldn't do it anymore and he heard Jinx squeak as he lost his balance and fell to the ground. She was pulled back as well, falling on her ass. Her eyes were wide and she got up, hooking her arms under Viktor's before dragging him into a narrow alleyway. Viktor was vaguely aware of footsteps rushing past it. He could hear his own heavy breathing. Jinx was staring past him at the entrance to the alley, her gun trained and ready to fire. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds of silence. Viktor could hear soft rattling. Jinx's hands were trembling on the gun. She lowered it and shoved it back in the holster before turning to him. She didn't seem to know what to say for a moment, scanning him over with wide eyes. "...Viktor??" She sounded unsure and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. He could feel something running down his head and he flinched as he felt Jinx wipe it up. He opened his eyes. Bright blue liquid was dripping off her fingers and she stared at it in confusion before looking up at him. "You're bleeding." She sounded dumbfounded. No. She instantly reached out, staining his shirt as she placed a hand on his chest. She seemed to listen before her eyes widened. "You're... beating." No, please. Viktor shakily raised a hand to his head, burying his face against it. The tears finally started and he didn't even want to know what those looked like. He try to stifle his first sob, but he couldn't do it. It all hurt. It all hurt so much. He was sore and he was bleeding and he was already so, so tired. He jumped as he felt arms wrap around him and he was pulled into a hug. "...You're solid." Jinx sounded in slight awe as she hugged him. Viktor felt awful. He felt sick. He felt battered. His throat hurt. No, his throat really... He shakily raised a hand to it. He could still feel that hand. He couldn't stop crying and he felt Jinx shakily rubbing his back. "Wh-Why are you solid??" Her voice was trembling. Viktor knew that Jinx was frightened, but good gods, this was not helping. He didn't even know if he could speak?? Did Jayce say he would be able to talk?? He opened his mouth. "H-He did it to me." Viktor's voice was raspy at first. Unused. "H-He forced m-me into a body. H-He's bound me to it. J-Jinx... It hurts so much." His voice became strangled. He heard Jinx made a small unhappy noise. She pulled back, staring at him. She seemed desperate as she wiped away his tears with her thumbs. Her eyes were scanning him over in slight panic. "S-Silco. We should go see Silco. He'll know what to do." She said softly. Viktor didn't think he would. She looked him over again before frowning. She reached out and Viktor flinched as she pulled a piece of glass from his cheek. "Y-You feel pain." Viktor whispered that he could feel everything in a strained voice. This was not what he'd wanted. This was not a gift. This was no miracle. As he tried to get up with her, Viktor bit back a scream as his knee nearly buckled and he collapsed again. "V-Viktor!" Jinx looked utterly panicked, her hands sliding up into her hair and curling into fists. Her breathing was heavy. "What do I do, what do I do, what do I do??" Jinx made a small noise of panic, moving forward to the entrance of the alleyway and peering out. Viktor tried to get up again. He stood, leaning back against the wall before taking a few steps forward. The limp was bad and he nearly fell twice. Jinx seemed spooked as she saw him walking, running over. She slipped behind him and pushed her head under his arm. She had him lean on her shoulder before pausing. She looked him over with wide eyes before looking down at herself. She had a cut on her lower lip and a pretty nasty one on her arm, which had stained her cloud tattoos red. Viktor jumped as she started to laugh. The laugh was interrupted by small snorts and Viktor had never been more confused. "We look like shit. Silco's gonna lose it." She managed in a weak voice, a smile on her bloody lips. Viktor blinked. They... They really did look a mess. An absolute fucking mess. Not only were they both coming back bruised and bloody, but Viktor... Viktor was bruised and bloody. Viktor had a body. Forced upon him and bound to him. Tears welled in his eyes again, but he forced himself to remain composed, focusing instead on Jinx's tiny snorting laughter as she moved out of the alleyway with him. "Gods, Viktor... Wh-What are you going to do??" Jinx's smile remained, but it had lost its joy. Tears had started in her eyes as they limped along. "It really just hurts??" "Every bit. Jumping through a window... did not help." Viktor replied quietly. "I-I have to... breathe. I have to try and... focus on walking again. My knee..." He was still trying to focus on breathing. He'd, at least, stopped having to manually blink. He raised his wrist and Jinx's hand tightened on his arm as she saw the Rune in his wrist. Jinx asked why he'd done that to him and the question almost made Viktor start laughing. The best he could do was a weak scoff of pained amusement. "...Why did he do anything to me?" He swallowed quietly. "Because I made the mistake of saving his life. And he wants to give me what he thinks I deserve." His voice became strangled as he spoke again, his vision blurring with tears. "Whether I want it or not."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
When they reached The Last Drop, Jinx had to shoulder open the back door. They'd taken a series of alleyways to even get here. Viktor didn't even know if he was still bleeding. He wasn't sure how to acknowledge it. The moment she got the door open, Viktor felt uncertainty flood his body as he heard Silco's men inside. Right. He was... He was solid now. He swallowed weakly. Jinx led him inside and the moment they entered the main room, Viktor heard the others fall quiet, watching them. Jinx paused and immediately turned to them, her eyes wide and her gaze unstable. "You guys are awfully nosy." She commented, her fingers sliding down to her gun holster. The men quickly returned to their conversations, though Viktor could still feel eyes on him. Climbing the stairs may have been the most difficult thing he'd done in years. The moment they reached the upper hallway, Viktor nearly collapsed and Jinx pulled him forward before laying him against the wall in the hallway leading to the office. She knelt down, her lips still bloody. "Viktor??" "Jinx, you are bleeding. Y-You have to stop reopening the wound." Viktor said weakly, his brow furrowed. Jinx scoffed, her voice cracking as she exclaimed that her stupid bleeding lip was the least of her problems. Viktor's eyes moved to her arm and his shoulder sank, him reaching out to it. Jinx quickly moved, grabbing his hand. She insisted she was fine. She paused as they both heard muffled yelling from the office. It sounded like Sevika. Viktor could hear her speaking in a fierce tone that someone was unpredictable and unstable. That allies were dead now because of... her. Viktor's eyes moved to Jinx. Jinx stared at the door before her eyes flicked back to meet Viktor's. She inhaled sharply through her teeth as she tipped her head to the side. "The, uh, smuggling kind of went bad. We got interrupted by those stupid Firelight and I may have lost my cool." Jinx gave a small shrug, her brow furrowed as she stared at the ground. "But it's not like I killed anyone important. I don't even know their names." She threw her hands out to the sides in quiet frustration. Her voice became strangled as she gave another shrug, this one shakier. "I dunno, something just..." Jinx jumped as Viktor reached out, pulling her down into a hug. She fell quiet almost instantly, curling up against him. "...I didn't mean it." Viktor rubbed her back. "I didn't mean it, Viktor, I just lost my head..." Three seconds of silence. Three seconds of muffled, angry speaking from the office door. Three seconds of loud, yet hushed conversations from downstairs. Viktor gave a weak sigh. "Jinx... we need medical attention." Viktor finally said, rubbing her back. Jinx gave a small sniffle, pulling back and wiping her eyes. She started to nod immediately. She stood up and turned, revealing the slash along her exposed hip. "Jinx, good gods." She glanced back at him before following his dismayed gaze. She seemed surprised to see it, reaching up and poking at it. It was on the side without her holster. Jinx didn't seem to know what to do for a moment, doing an awkward little circle before coming back. She stretched out her hands to Viktor. Viktor reached up, struggling to get to his feet, even with Jinx's help. She did a few circles around him before pushing her head under his arm again like some kind of cat. It vaguely amused him. They both limped towards the office door and Viktor stretched his hand out. Three knocks. Light. With only his knuckle. "Just go inside!" Jinx reached out, turning the knob and shoving the door open. As she led Viktor inside, Sevika turned to then, clearly furious about something. Whatever tension had been in the room from her conversation with Silco quickly flew away, her eyes going wide as she saw the both of them. The door shut and Viktor's leg buckled, Jinx having to let him go as he fell to his knees. His hands were pressed against the floor, his fingers curled slightly into the wood. He was still taking in shaking breaths. His throat was dry and it still ached from Jayce's hands. He couldn't stand how silent the room had become. "J-Jinx is bleeding. U-Upper arm, waist on the left side and her bottom lip." Viktor spoke aloud. "Sh-She will need stitches for her waist and arm." Jinx exclaimed that that was not important right now. Viktor paused as he heard footsteps approaching him before flinching back as Silco dropped on a knee in front of him, his eye wide in shock. He stretched out his hands and Viktor turned his head away from them, shaking it. He raised one of his wrists, showing off the carved Rune and making Silco freeze up. "A solid form has been forced upon me. I... I did not a-ask for this. H-He... He was unwilling to accept my refusal." Jinx spoke up, relaying in a slightly panicked voice that Viktor had told her everything hurts. "It does. I... feel." He inhaled shakily. Tears were gathering in his eyes again. "Every time... I think he's gotten better... he goes and makes it worse. It's like he's playing a game." He squeezed his eyes shut. "...Why do I keep falling for it??"Arms suddenly wrapped around him and he was pulled against something that smelled vaguely of wine, Shimmer and cigar smoke. He fell limp against Silco, though he refused to cry. "Sevika, please fetch Viktor water. Quickly." Silco's voice was somewhat shaken. Despite whatever argument it seemed like they had been having, Viktor heard Sevika immediately spur into action, turning and leaving the room. Viktor heard someone else kneel next to them. Jinx's arms wrapped around both of them. "...I keep sending you into traps." Silco's voice was barely a whisper. Viktor blinked before replying that he hadn't known. "But I should. This is the second time. This is the second time I've sent you up there and you've come back hurt!" Viktor pulled back from him. Silco looked so frustrated. Both Viktor and Jinx jumped as he slammed his fist against the floor. Jinx helped Viktor up as Silco stormed back towards his desk, picking up his glass and hurling it to the side with a shattering noise before pinching the bridge of his nose. Jinx brought Viktor to the couch and sat him down. She sat on the arm of the couch right next to him. Her longer braid laid over his shoulder. The door to the office opened and Sevika returned. She was holding a glass of water in her non-metal hand. She watched as Silco threw something else off his desk before she turned and made her way over to them. She cast an unamused, furious glare at Jinx before her eyes fell on Viktor and weakened. "Hey, bookworm. You have to drink." She held out the glass and he took it with shaking fingers. They stained the glass blue and he could only stare at the water for a moment. He hadn't... He hadn't drank anything in... He glanced up at her, unsure if any facial expression he made could convey just how terrified he was. "Viktor??" Jinx's finger poked his arm worriedly. Viktor spoke, saying he hadn't tried to drink anything in decades. He glanced up at Sevika and gestured for her to move away. "I-I may become sick. I've found I am... capable." Viktor managed in a weakened voice. Sevika moved back. Viktor raised the glass to his lips, though it was shaking. Colored nails suddenly appeared through the glass as Jinx steadied the bottom of the cup. Viktor took a small gulp and nearly dropped the glass, covering his mouth. His throat had violently spasmed and he forced himself to painfully swallow, keeping his eyes squeezed shut. He could feel the water moving through his body and it almost sent him into a full-fledged panic. Jinx turned on the couch arm to face him, her leg laid over the front of him now as she tried to assure him he was okay. Viktor took a few deep breaths. "I... I would like to try again." He warned. He saw Jinx reach out to steady the glass once more. Viktor managed a few sips without his gag reflex violently activating. He finished the glass, letting out a shaky sigh. Jinx tossed it to the other side of the couch. Her eyes scanned him over and the way her bloody lips trembled showed she was keeping herself from crying. She finally looked up. "We have to kill this guy." Viktor quickly spoke up, saying he was their poster boy and they couldn't risk war with Piltover. "I don't give a fuck if he's their king. I hate to say it, but the brat's right. We need to fucking kill him." Sevika stated firmly, crossing her arms. It was rare to hear Sevika agree with Jinx on something. "Silco. We cannot." Viktor had to appeal to the last voice in the room as quickly as he could. Silco turned to him, his hand on his forehead. One look at him and Viktor could tell he was really, really considering it. "Y-You know what this would do. Th-They will try to eradicate us. Th-They will have a proper excuse to wipe us out. We can't." Viktor's voice became weakened and he could see the conflict in Silco's eyes. His slicked back hair was slightly disheveled and the fingers of his other hand were digging into his desk. "W-We cannot risk an assassination. I can... I'll be..." Nothing he said would be the truth. He didn't know if he could handle it. He wasn't going to be fine. "Silco." He could only say his name pleadingly. "Please don't." Silco was beyond upset. Despite his face holding a mostly neutral expression, Viktor could tell better than anyone when Silco was on the brink of his frustration. Ready to lash out at any given moment. He met Viktor's gaze before he closed his eye and turned away, giving a heavy sigh through his nose. "...We cannot risk killing such a public face in Piltover. The consequences are too great." Sevika looked pissed, but she wasn't one to argue with Silco's decisions. It looked like she'd at least already calmed enough to understand that this was a terrible idea. Jinx, however..."Look what he did to him!! He should be in the ground! I should've blown him full of holes!! He deserves so much more than the two bullets I put in him!" Jinx exclaimed, sounding furious. "Gods, I should've gut him!" Viktor shook his head, begging her not to. "Viktor, look at you!! I should-" "Jinx. Someone I trusted has already done something for me today that I did not ask for." Viktor's voice was quiet and he glanced up at her with teary eyes. Jinx paused and her shoulders sank. Her blue eyes were darting around his head furiously and she squeezed them shut, sliding her hands into her hair and gripping it tightly. She curled up, burying her head against Viktor's shoulder as she trembled. Viktor met Sevika's gaze. She had her jaw clenched, her metal claws opening and closing at her side. "...I apologize that I let him too close. I should have known better." "You reach out to the good in people. You thought you saw it and he knew that. He used your kindness against you." Sevika told him, her brow furrowed. "...I think you have to start being a little jaded, Viktor. Put up more walls. Become less trusting." Viktor stared at her before his gaze drifted to the ground. His shoulders sank. "...Perhaps." He managed in a quiet voice. He paused as Sevika asked if those were his only clothes. Viktor nodded. She sighed, saying she'd get him more. Sevika scanned him over before speaking again, asking that he take her words into consideration. Viktor nodded and he heard her turn away. Her footsteps soon left the room, the door shutting. Jinx's hands had left her hair and she loosely hugged Viktor's shoulders. There were more footsteps and Viktor glanced up to meet Silco's gaze. "Did I disappoint you?" His question seemed to make Silco tense up. "...Never, Viktor." He replied quietly. "What... disappoints me... is that someone like him can be allowed to live alongside us in this world. That we cannot dispose of him without consequence." Silco did sounded slightly furious. He spoke with a poison that Viktor rarely heard. Jinx muttered against Viktor's shoulder that she should've aimed for his head. "You got Viktor out of there, Jinx. You did well." She glanced up at him with doubtful, teary eyes. Viktor glanced over at her. "You did save me. The damage was done. You could not do anything to help that, but now I am away from him, thanks to you." Viktor told her. "Thank you, Jinx." She stared at him before starting to sniffle. She dropped down sideways into his lap, burying herself against him. Viktor paused before wrapping his arms around her. Silco watched them both with pained eyes. "...This feels cruel. Have I done something to deserve this? My misguided act of kindness truly brought me to this point?" He felt Jinx's hug tighten a little. Silco furrowed his brow. "We may not be able to kill him without consequence, but I promise you, Viktor. He will suffer. I will be sure of it." Silco's tone was dark and assuring. Viktor wasn't sure how he would manage that and he glanced up at him before nodding. "A... friend of mine has been hurt." Viktor had never thought he'd hear him say it. "I cannot let such a hateful crime go unpunished."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor held the clothes against his chest, leaning back against the bathroom door as he clicked it shut behind him. His hands were still shaking. He still felt sick. Silco had sent him off to clean up once he'd calmed down enough. Sevika had even brought him new clothes. And Jinx... good gods, he couldn't believe she'd managed it. Jinx had... admitted to stealing something. And when Viktor had seen what it was, he'd been left speechless. How Jinx had managed to get the Gemstone from the case behind the stage was a mystery to him, but she'd held it up as casually as a pebble found in the street. They just... had one of the Hex Gemstones. And they had... Jinx had taken a singular journal of Jayce's from the lab. It seemed to be his original one, with his initial notes on Hextech. Viktor... didn't want to know if the journal eventually ended up mentioning him. But with these... they could theoretically make their own Hextech. Jinx had said she would try. She was smart. She was brilliant and Viktor had said he would help once he was able. Surely, together, they could crack it. But for right now, Viktor's hardest battle was going to be...Looking at himself. He slowly raised his eyes to the mirror. Those... were his eyes. That... was his face. He had blue staining it from small cuts. Viktor hesitantly limped forward, using the sink counter to steady himself. He set the pile of clothes down. He reached up and shakily started to pick the glass from his face. He stared at himself before opening his mouth. He placed his palm under his chin before hooking his fingers into his mouth. He moved his lower jaw side to side, trying to figure out how it was pieced together. He pulled his fingers out and felt around his face. When he opened his mouth, he could feel muscles stretch and pull. That man had designed facial muscles. He'd designed a muscular system. If this weren't so horrifying and upsetting, Viktor would be... The part of him that thrived on his study of anatomy would be freaking out in awe. All of this?? Synthetically? His own amber eyes scanned over his reflection. He hesitantly reached up, wincing a little as he undid the hair tie that was tangled in his hair. It fell messily around his head. He ran his hand through it. The hair felt synthetic for sure. It didn't seem like Jayce had tried very hard with that. His... hands... Viktor pulled it down from his head to look at it. He could see each individual joint. Each knuckle. His hands had been crafted so carefully. No doubt these had been the most tedious part of the shell to build. Jayce had even given him nails. Viktor had to fight back tears as he stared at his hands. He couldn't help but think of his finger bone. Ring finger. Right hand. Why had Jayce given it to the Hexcore?? The Hexcore had... eaten it. Viktor wasn't even sure if that was the right word. He reached up. The belt around his waist was Jayce's, as was the shirt he was wearing. He unhooked the belt and cast it to the side before shakily raising his hands. He started to unbutton the shirt. He was... He was terrified of what he was going to see. Viktor hesitantly slipped it off his pale shoulders. He instantly felt tears spring to his eyes. A Binding Rune was carved right into the front of his sternum. He hadn't seen it before, but now it was a pale blue, like the ones on his wrists. The Runes had likely all activated and become visibly once he'd been pulled into the body. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, swallowing before opening them again. He reached up to his shoulders, able to see where the joints connected. The whole collarbone... Viktor's fingers poked at it. There was... no way this didn't take that long. He paused as he felt something etched into the back of his shoulders. It didn't... feel like the Binding Rune. It didn't have the right shape. He furrowed his brow, turning so he could see his shoulder in the mirror. It was a different Rune. He'd seen it before. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Resolve. It was the Rune of Resolve. Viktor inhaled shakily. He paused before lifting his arm. He had Runes carved down his side as well. Lesser ones than the World Rune in his shoulder. Taste. Sight. Touch. Hearing. Smell. All of the Runes for his senses were on one side. What was the other? He furrowed his brow. Studying that book of Runes relentlessly when he'd been with Jayce was proving to work in his favor. He traced the Runes down his side. Balance. Awareness. Stability. He paused. Another World Rune, just above his hip. Domination. Viktor... wasn't sure he wanted to remove his lower garments. He wasn't sure what he would find. He squeezed his eyes shut and started to do so anyway. He stripped himself bare before taking a shaky step back and leaning against the wall to look at himself. That leg that Jayce had built the brace into was covered in Runes. There was nothing organized about them either. It looked like Jayce had been desperate. Stability. He could see that Rune at least four times. Two Binding Runes. One on the knee and the other on his ankle. The rest were all Runes relating to healing and movement. They were all lit up in that pale blue. He froze up as he moved his hand to his navel. There was... Viktor scrunched his shoulders up and let out a shaky exhale. He felt his face heat up as he covered it. The Rune for Stamina was carved into his navel. Good gods... Even his ears burned. And he still couldn't believe Jayce had built... He glanced down. He slid his hand down just a little to touch the flaccid, artificial length before yanking his hand back. He couldn't believe it. He couldn't believe him.Another thought entered his head and he scrunched up his shoulders before reaching behind him. Was there...? Yes, there was. Another Rune was carved at the bottom of his spine. Two of them, in fact. One on top of the other. The first was... Endurance. The second was... Adaption. Viktor's face only got worse with heat. This was embarrassing. Humiliating even. Why?? Why would Jayce add those?? His other leg had the Binding Rune on the ankle, but he couldn't see any others. The feet were as meticulously crafted as the hands, but a joint had been built in the middle of them to allow for a proper arch. Viktor carefully pushed himself up on his toes, wobbling a little before he settled himself back down. His eyes raised to look at himself in the mirror again as he hugged himself. The body... was a marvel. It was a marvel of technology. Absolutely ground-breaking work. He just wished he wasn't stuck inside of it. His eyes fell back to his side again. There were odd, dark blue splotches, but they didn't feel wet when he ran his hand over them. They hurt when he touched them and Viktor paused. Bruising. He was bruised. He was stunned speechless. Jayce could've just built him a body without those things. Something flawless that didn't need to eat, drink or sleep. Something that didn't bleed or bruise. But no, he'd purposely put in the time and effort to create something flawed. Something human. Viktor's hand raised to cover his mouth and he felt tears start down his face. Luckily, those were still transparent as opposed to his glowing blue blood. Viktor felt sick. He felt sick and dizzy and every bad feeling at once. He leaned back against the wall, turning his head to the side and burying his cheek against it. He could see all his moles. Jayce had added every single one, including the ones on his inner thighs. He reached down to examine it before freezing. On the inside of his left thigh, closest to his pelvis, he could see a small 'JT' carved into it. Viktor was signed. He was signed by him. He buried his face in his hands and slid down the wall, his knees pulled up to his chest. A weak gasp left him as he tried not to break down in sobbing. His hair dangled around his face. He couldn't stop the tears, but he refused to start sobbing again. For his own peace of mind, he would not allow it. This body... was a marvel. A miracle. A curse. Three minutes of silence. Three minutes before he could compose himself. Viktor finally lifted his head, glancing over at the shower. If it could drink, he assumed Jayce had designed it to be waterproof. Even with all the joints. He'd clearly taken care to add every other damn thing in the world. Viktor pushed himself to his feet, wiping his eyes. What he'd thought was fabric was actually a paper-thin material similar to silicone. Smooth, with a slight, squishy feel to it. He reached up to the cuts on his face. He hesitantly pinched one together and when he drew his hand back, his eyes widened. The cut had instantly sealed up. He paused before starting to close up all the cuts on his face. It was that easy?? His hands were shaky as he lowered them back down to grip the counter. He could only stare. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest. The anatomist in him was fascinated. Enthralled. Curious and desperate to know more. But every other part of him was repulsed and horrified. Trapped and panicked. Viktor swallowed again, his eyes lowering. He had to clean himself. He was sure he still had glass in some places and bright blue blood stained his neck and face. Viktor turned, limping his way over to the shower before messing with it. It took him a good few minutes to figure out how to even turn it on, let alone adjust it to what he assumed was a proper temperature. Viktor stared at the water quietly. He really wasn't sure. Finally, he took a shaky step over the small barrier and into the water. The moment the warmth swept over his body, he froze up a little. It... It felt nice? He furrowed his brow. Was this... nice...? He hugged himself before closing his eyes and tipping his head back. He could feel all his hair become heavy and slide back out of his face. It did feel nice. He furrowed his brow. Silco had told him he could use his hair products, but Viktor wasn't sure if he needed them. His hair was so obviously fake. He ran his fingers over his head. He used his hands to wash away the bright blue blood from his cheeks and neck. He really... Viktor decided to commit, opening the bottle on a side shelf. He started to lather the product into his hair uncertainly. He wasn't even sure he remembered how to do it. This felt right...? He tipped his head back, allowing the water to pull the foam from his head. He rinsed off his hands as well. He paused before placing his hands on each shoulder and running them down the front of his body. There was another separation where his ribcage would've ended and where his stomach began. Possibly to allow the arch of his back. He traced his fingers along the bottom of it, shivering a little before hesitantly hooking his fingers into it. Just the smallest push up inside sent such a violent rush through his body that he gasped and covered his mouth. He... shouldn't do that. Live and learn. Don't do that. His face had gone hot and he glanced down. He... Was Jayce serious? He'd actually built that?? What if someone had caught him while he was working on it? Viktor's fingers stretched down to settle lightly on his flaccid length again. Had he really...? Viktor slid his fingers down his length and shivered, another shaky breath escaping him. This would've required a... a nervous system. An entire circulatory system. A muscular system. And Jayce had... made all of that?? Good gods, the man was brilliant. Viktor leaned against the wall of the shower, his head in his hand. How much... money...? How many people had he...? Viktor trembled. How many people had Jayce let see him in such a vulnerable position? The thought made Viktor's chest ache. The things Jayce had done for him, knowing he wouldn't even want it... Truly a definition of insanity. Viktor could feel tears running down his face again. Despite all of his physical pain being soothed by the warm water, the pain inside ate away at him like acid. He closes his eyes before his eyelids suddenly twitched. He kept... appearing somewhere else. That purple-tinted night sky and reflective ground. That peaceful place kept flickering in front of him. The pattering of the shower went silent whenever he was in it. He furrowed his brow, hugging himself. Finally, the world flickered once. Twice. Three times. It was silent.He was there. Viktor opened his eyes. The purple-tinted world was still there. The reflective ground stretched out for miles around him, but it wasn't exactly... reflecting the starry sky. No, it seemed to be reflecting something else. A sky of purple, blue and green swirls shifting and moving. Viktor furrowed his brow. His body felt light again. When he lifted his hand, it was engulfed in that white silhouette. It went all the way down his body, but he could still see his pale shoulders. Everything below it was consumed in a white glow, swirls of translucent color occasionally passing through him. Where was he? It was so quiet. Anxiety filled his chest and he hesitantly took a step forward. His knee didn't hurt here. When he placed his foot down, the ground rippled like water. He stopped himself, unsure of if he would move in the shower as well. Was he still in the shower?? Obviously not... mentally, based on the looks of things, but physically... Viktor froze up as he heard a voice. Actually... multiple voices. Everyone's voices. Winding and merging together. "Viktor." The hiss of his name sent such a chill down his spine that it locked up his entire body. It felt like something was behind him now. "Viktor... It is so nice... to finally meet you."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor didn't want to move. Not only did he not want to, but he wouldn't dare. Whatever was behind him felt unnatural. The aura it gave off was... wrong. He stared forward quietly, hugging himself. "...Who are you?" He asked after a moment. The voice gave a small hum before seeming to ignore his question entirely. He couldn't stand the way it spoke. It sounded like every person he knew talking at once, in unison, but at constantly differing volumes. It sounded like everyone at once and yet, it resembled no one. The undertone held a faint warbling noise to it."Jayce has told me much about you. Over many, many days, he spoke of you many, many times. As expected, you tasted stale. He'd warned me about that. He said you'd been bodiless. That you were-""Dead." Viktor interrupted in a quiet voice. "Not bodiless. Dead. I was dead and I was content." His voice gave a small shake. "I was happy with myself and now I only feel sickened. I feel sickened and betrayed." He knew what he was speaking with now, but he wasn't sure why or how. "...You ate me?" "I dissembled your piece and I am learning from it as we speak. Your blood type. Your knee abnormality. Your physical structure. Any and all genetic variables that had come together to create you physically. The remnants of a disease staining your very core. Was this the cause of death?" The voice sounded curious and Viktor paused. He shook his head, saying he'd not allowed the disease to progress that far. "...I do not wish to continue a conversation with you. Please release me from this place." His voice was shaking. He closed his eyes in frustration as it seemed to ignore him again. "The body he built for you is magnificently flawed. He disregarded my every suggestion. It would've saved him most of the trouble he went through, but he insisted that it had to be perfect. That it had to be you." Perfect...? Viktor's chest ached and he fought it back. He couldn't let its words get to him. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. "I was not aware you were... sentient." He spoke aloud, desperate to change the subject, and the voice seemed to give a curious hum. "We are quite similar, Viktor. Not of this world. Contained within a vessel. Built by the same man, whose greed of the Arcane... will surely fail him." Viktor paused before asking if it had been trapped as well. The voice seemed to suddenly laugh and it was the most chilling thing that Viktor had ever heard, considering it was several different laughs all erupting at the same time. He raised his hands to his ears, squeezing his eyes shut. When it died back down, he was left shaking. The voice was left sounding terribly amused."We are only... similar, not alike. I wanted to be brought into this world. I willed it. I want to explore a flawed reality. I want to learn from it. I want to see if the imperfections are worthy of my blind eye." Viktor lowered his hands, his fingers trembling. He... hated this. He still wouldn't turn around, refusing to look. He didn't want to know. He didn't want to see. His hands tightened on his arms as he hugged himself. "Why won't you look at me, Viktor?" Viktor paused. "I do not want to see you." He said quietly. The hum the Hexcore let out sounded displeased. "I would like to be released from this place. I would not like to come back either." "Except you will. Next time, I'll assume a visually appealing form. Perhaps you fear looking at me in my purest state." Viktor opened his mouth before a violent shock went through his body, causing a strangled noise to leave him. He dropped to the floor of the shower, the water still washing over him as he coughed. He pushed himself back to his feet and turned it off. How long had he been in here?? Had time passed? If so, how much? Viktor reached out, shutting off the water. He paused. Something had changed on his arm. It hadn't been there before he'd gone to that place, but it was back now. He could see the webbing again. It looked like translucent coloring had been injected into the thin layer of false skin. Viktor shakily pulled his arm back, staring at it. Jayce had said this pattern only appeared on things directly touched by the Arcane. Viktor's fingers shook as he curled his hand up. His heart was pounding again. He leaned against the wall, his wet hair dangling around his head....Why? Why had he trusted him?? Why had he trusted that he was better?? How many times could he fall for the same trick?? How many times was he going to be caught? He should've pushed him off that damn ledge. He should've watched him hit the ground, just like he had years before. He should've just watched his body splatter over the pavement and he should've watched his blood seep through the- Viktor stopped. N-No? No. No, why would he...? That was awful. No, he wouldn't have wished that upon anyone. What was he thinking?? Viktor was wide-eyed in shock at himself. Why would he think that?? Yes, he absolutely regretted saving Jayce, but he would never have killed him. Viktor was shaking. He moved forward, stepping over the small barrier of the shower and standing on the carpet. He pulled down a towel from the shelf, wrapping it over his head and starting to dry his hair. He froze up as he felt a ghostly touch against the bottom of his spine. It made him jump. What was that?? Viktor pulled the towel back enough to look around the room. He was alone. He jumped again as he felt a hand press against the front of his chest. He backed up, hitting the wall with the towel dangling from his shoulders. The hand followed and Viktor's eyes were wide. He recognized the shape of this hand. "Jayce?" He spoke his name in a shaky whisper. Why was...? The hand suddenly started to slide down. "W-Wait!" He felt it stop on his navel and his shoulders were tense. "Are you here??" He paused, able to feel something tingling on the back of his neck. He shakily reached up, finding another Rune under his hair. He furrowed his brow as he traced it, drawing out the shape in his mind. It was... Viktor froze up. "D-Desire?" He questioned softly. He inhaled shakily as he felt those fingers start to trace the Stamina Rune on his navel. "I-I don't... I don't understand, I don't desire h-him. I..." Viktor sputtered softly. The Rune of Desire often caused manifestations and it was associated with yearning. Why had Jayce put it on him?? Why in such a hidden place as well? It was only supposed to react to his desires. It was supposed to show him what he wanted. And there was no way it was- Viktor squeezed his eyes shut as Jayce's fingers moved down further. "W-Wait- ah!" He gasped as he felt his fingers wrap around him. That other hand suddenly gripped his thigh and Viktor's face flushed, it clicking that Jayce's hand could nearly wrap around his entire leg. Those fingers started to stroke over him and Viktor inhaled shakily, holding the back of his hand up to his mouth. "I-It can't be him. Not him." He managed in a quiet voice. "I don't th-think..." This couldn't be correct. It couldn't be Jayce. But he... Viktor knew how the Rune worked. It only reacted to his desires. Because he was the one it was attached to. It didn't matter who had placed it there. Viktor let out a small groan as he felt that hand pumping his length. He didn't even want to look. His legs were shaking and he was shocked that he could feel the 'blood' pulling towards his center. The sensation alone nearly dropped him. "Hah!" Viktor tipped his head back, feeling Jayce's thumb rubbing the tip of his length. It twitched. Gods, he could feel... Viktor moved his other hand up, burying his face in both of them to hide. Would the real Jayce be this good with his hands?? Viktor froze up and the redness spread down his neck as he whispered that there was no way he'd just wondered that. Not after everything. Not after everything, there was no way it was him. Not... Because why would it be?? Why? After years of enduring him. After what he'd managed to put Viktor through without him even having a body. Why would...? When Viktor closed his eyes, he was back to that quiet night in the bed with Jayce. Watching the other sleep on his stomach with a vulnerable, tear-stained face. Viktor opened his eyes and quickly hid his cheek against his shoulder. It couldn't... Jayce's panicked eyes appeared in his mind and he felt the other's warm arms wrap around him for the first time. When he'd been sobbing and inconsolable after the sleep experiment, Jayce had taken out a Hex Crystal just to hold him. Viktor shook his head. "It... can't... be him." He managed in small, breathless voice. The fingers around his length disappeared, as did the hand holding his leg. Instantly, Viktor collapsed against the wall, sliding down it. Viktor was left panting. He buried his face against his hand. The world had to be joking. He squeezed his eyes shut. He hadn't even... He made a small noise of frustration before reaching down. He was really going to have to finish it himself?? Viktor trembled as he wrapped his hand around his stiff length. He tried to steady his breathing before starting to jerk himself. "Ah... Mh..." Viktor bit back his noises so hard, his jaw hurt. His length throbbed in his hand. Feeling pleasure again after years of nothing... Good gods... Viktor didn't stand a chance. He didn't last long at all and it barely took another minute of pumping his length before he felt something spatter his hand and a wave of ecstasy momentarily paralyzed him. He dropped back against the wall, covering his face with his clean hand. What was wrong with him?? Viktor almost started crying again right then and there. He lifted his hand, taking note that his release was still bright blue. He shook as he pushed himself to his feet. He stopped as he saw himself in the mirror. His face was... flushed blue. Hadn't it been red before?? Or had he just imagined it? Viktor swallowed quietly before moving forward. He washed his hand in the sink before cleaning himself up with some tissues. Well, he was... mostly dry now. He reached his hands out to the clothes, pulling at them. Being able to wear something other than an Academy uniform... for good? Viktor trembled. "The time of death was 11:42 PM." He whispered to himself. The moment any clock hit it and his clothes didn't revert, he was certain he would start crying. He slowly got himself dressed. One of the dark red shirt's sleeves went to his elbow, while the other went to his wrist. He had been given an asymmetrical black corset with it. A decorative one that didn't hold the same function. Part of the corset stretched up to rest under his ribcage while the other covered part of his hip. The collar of the shirt was dark green. Viktor's pants were black, but the stitching was also dark green. His bangs hung on either side of his face as he pulled his hair back into a ponytail with the hair tie Jinx had given him. The Rune on the back of his neck was exposed and he reached out. He opened the cabinet nearby, searching through until he found what he was looking for. A shaving blade. He flicked it open quietly, looking at himself in the mirror. His hand was trembling. "I... cannot allow this Rune to lie to me." He whispered quietly. "I cannot allow this Rune to affect me in front of others." His eyes fell on the shaving blade before moving to the mirror again, settling on his throat. Or he could just... no. There... was no guarantee that would even work. It would just be a mess. At least he knew... this would work. The shape of a Rune had to be disrupted in order to halt the effect. He reached back, lifting his hair with a shaking hand. "I can't let it tell me that he is the one I want. I cannot handle such lies." Tears were already welling in his eyes again as he lifted the blade behind him. Three seconds to meet his own eyes in the mirror. Two seconds to breathe in. One... quick... slice.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor hadn't wanted to be found so quickly, but it made sense that, as a born and raised Zaunite, Silco would know how to lock-pick. Viktor couldn't even bring himself to reply when Silco had come looking for him, much less stop him when he heard the knob start to be messed with. There was a click and the door was flung open. Silco was wide-eyed as he took in the room. The shaving blade was on the floor, laying in a puddle of glowing blue liquid. The same liquid was in the shape of handprints, gripping the sink counter. Viktor was sitting against the wall, his knees pulled up to his chest. He hadn't moved in a while, his head buried against his arm. His back was soaked. "Viktor." Silco's voice was quiet and Viktor barely managed to lift his head. He squeezed his eyes shut, wincing at the stinging feeling that came from the back of his neck. He could... feel the open skin. Why wouldn't it heal? There were footsteps and Viktor glanced over as Silco knelt next to him. He didn't stop him as he felt Silco lift his hair. A small sigh left Silco's nose as he seemed to take in the damage. He finally pulled his hand back. To Viktor's surprise, Silco lowered himself down to sit next to him, albeit with slight difficulty as he pulled his legs into a crisscross position. Neither of them spoke and Viktor's eyes trailed down to the hand he had resting against the ground. Both of his hands were equally stained blue from trying to halt the bleeding. His handprints covered the sink counter and the wall behind him. The entire wall was stained. "...I apologize for your bathroom. I did not expect it to become... this messy." Viktor finally spoke again. "The other slices in the skin closed when I pushed them together. I do not understand why this one won't."Viktor assumed that, for larger wounds, they had to be held together longer before they could seal up. But his problem with this one was that he couldn't have it seal up in a way that would make the Rune whole again. As soon as it was, that manifestation... that lie... would come rushing back to him. He paused as Silco shuffled next to him, glancing over. He paused as he watched Silco roll up his sleeves. He asked what he was doing in a quiet voice. "You said you need to hold your wounds shut for them to seal. You won't be able to do so with those hands, not to mention this... Rune." He sighed. "One would be right to assume you don't want this Rune to be whole again with... what you've done to it." Viktor blinked. "Silco, it is going to be all over your hands." He said in a quiet voice. Silco made a dismissive gesture. "I used to work in the mines, Viktor. Getting my hands a bit dirty is nothing to flinch at." He told him, gesturing for Viktor to sit up straight. Viktor did so, feeling Silco's hands on the back of his neck. Viktor stated that blood wasn't like dirt and Silco scoffed. "It gets under your nails all the same." Viktor could tell Silco wanted ask questions, even without looking at him."There are Runes carved all over this body. Many of them, I will tolerate. It would be... far too tedious to... remove the Binding Runes with where he's placed them." Viktor's eyes lowered to the floor. A few of the Binding Runes had been placed over major arteries. Even where Jayce had placed his initials was downright dangerous for Viktor to even try to get rid of them. Viktor had a feeling it meant he was now able to die again. Silco's fingers were felt holding the open slice on the back of his neck closed, albeit a little skewed. "That one, however... I will not have it." His voice became slightly strangled. Silco was quiet. "He has signed me with his initials. Is that not humiliating?" Viktor gave a weak scoff. Silco didn't answer and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "...Please say something." "...I know that feeling well. Being permanently marked by someone you trusted and forced to carry it with you." Silco's voice was soft and Viktor's shoulders sank. "And you are right, it is humiliating." Viktor glanced up as Silco spoke again. "But you can never let others see that, Viktor. You must seem as if the experience left you stronger. Unaffected. Even if it keeps you awake at night. And it will... especially when such a thing was done to you by someone you considered... close. And, like me, you will have to see it every time you gaze upon yourself in a mirror." Viktor glanced back at him before apologizing quietly. "There is no need for that. I'm sorry that you've been thrown down such a similar path." Viktor's eyes moved back to the ground, giving a weak sigh through his nose. "...The Rune of Desire was carved into the back of my neck and despite everything he has done..." He trailed off quietly. He felt Silco's hands tense a little and he knew the other could tell what had happened. He knew he didn't even need to say it out loud for him to understand, but Viktor needed to say it for his own peace of mind. "...Despite that, it shows me him. It manifests him and I cannot stand it. I can't have it doing that. This man hurt me and he betrayed me. I cannot possibly desire him." Viktor's voice became strangled again and he could feel the tears in his eyes once more. "Viktor... We may be the same, you and I." Silco spoke quietly. It was the most strained he'd ever heard him and Viktor paused. Admittedly, it took him a moment, but... Viktor spoke again. "...For him?" "For him. If he were still living and breathing today, I would rather cut out my tongue than allow him to know that." Silco sighed quietly. "And he was not like Jayce. I understand they were different, but... both of them... betrayed another closest to them and left them marked. Emotionally and physically with something they can never be rid of. Well..." Silco gave a humorless chuckle. "'Till death do us part', as they say." Viktor closed his eyes, a weak sigh escaping him. "But it is true that such a twisted affection can exist. A yearning for one... who has hurt you deepest. I've felt it for years." So the Rune was telling the truth. Had he just not realized? Had he been so blinded by fear and his need to help him that he'd just...? What a cruel joke. What a terrible punchline. Three seconds to ponder. But... at the very least, this meant he wasn't... He wasn't losing it. No, he wasn't losing it. "But I do not want this twisted affection. I want to move away from it. Even if I cannot escape it, I... cannot allow itself to come forward on its own." Viktor said, his voice shaking. Silco replied that he understood. He replied that they were both stuck with reminders. Viktor, with his body and Silco with... Viktor glanced over before asking how Jinx was handling everything. "She's disappeared down to her workshop to tinker with that Gemstone. If it holds the energy we believe, we could stand... a chance against Piltover." Silco sounded vaguely hopeful and also a bit relieved to be guided away from their previous conversation topic. "I am sure you'll be pleased to know that she has also granted you permission to her hideout now. I am... unable to follow, as all the ways to get down there will surely... cause me trouble." Viktor paused before a smile tugged at his lips. "Your age is catching up to you, you mean." He commented quietly before jumping a little as Silco flicked his head scoldingly. He spoke in a reminding tone that he and Viktor were roughly the same age. "The wrinkles always confuse me, I apologize." Viktor playfully winced as Silco flicked his head again. "It seems you may be feeling better." Silco commented, rolling his eyes. He hesitated before carefully moving his hands away. Viktor reached up to the back of his neck, feeling it over. Smooth. No sign a wound had even been there and the Rune felt distorted. He sighed in quiet relief. He glanced over, watching as Silco got to his feet, moving over to the sink to wash the blue blood off his hands. "Let us get out of this room. I'll have someone clean it and we can fetch you a new shirt since that seems to be the only thing that's been stained." Viktor apologized again as he pushed himself to his feet. He winced as he put pressure on his bad knee, but it only took one step to reach the counter. Silco moved aside to allow Viktor the sink to wash his hands. At Silco's insistence, he wet the hand towel and wiped the blood from the back of his neck as well."I'll have to find you something to walk with. All this trouble we went through and he couldn't be bothered to fix your leg. If his face weren't on every single building in that city, I would've let Sevika tear it off." Silco sounded agitated as he left the room, Viktor leaning against the counter. He closed his eyes, giving a weak sigh. Wouldn't that be something? Good gods, if he were physically capable, he'd cut Jayce open everywhere he'd left a Binding Rune on him. Ankles, wrists, sternum, thigh. Just to remind him what would happen when you mess with major arteries. Just to see him writhe on a floor slicked with- Viktor's eyes shot open. No. No, he would not do that. He furrowed his brow. "I-I would not do that." He whispered aloud to himself, his brow remaining furrowed. And not only that, no. He wasn't physically capable. And even if he were, he... "I would not do that!" Viktor almost scolded himself in horror. Good gods, what was wrong with him? He glanced back over towards the door. It didn't seem like Silco had heard him, so luckily, he wouldn't need to explain himself, but... His eyes scanned over the room before landing on the bloodied shaving razor.What if he cut out Jayce's tongue? The thought that suddenly erupted into his head made his eyes go wide. What?? Well... it would work, wouldn't it? He was always telling lies with it. Always getting what he wanted with it. Viktor could easily lure him in. Grab him by the tongue, sink the blade in the center and pull- Viktor gagged, covering his mouth. What was he thinking?? Good gods. He bit back the sour taste in his throat. Whatever the equivalent was to stomach bile, he assumed. He paused as he heard footsteps, glancing up as Silco reappeared. "We can get you a better one, but this should work for now." He held out a simple black cane. Viktor thanked him, taking it. Silco seemed to take note of his expression with a furrowed brow, but he wouldn't ask any questions. Viktor followed Silco out of the bathroom. They were in his bedroom, Silco having pulled another red shirt from the closet. He'd laid it on the bed, which didn't look used at all. "Jinx's workshop is under the bar. You can access it by opening the carpet behind the counter. I'll be returning to my office. If any of my men end up giving you trouble, please do not hesitate to let myself or Sevika know." Silco gave him a nod. "We'll kill them." He said it so casually and Viktor glanced at him, his hands tightening on the cane before he nodded. "...I do hope you know I wasn't just keeping you around in case you proved useful to me." The statement surprised Viktor and a smile tugged at his lips. "You said the word earlier." He reminded him with a teasing tone. Silco rolled his eyes and made a shooing motion with his hand as he turned away. He left the bedroom and Viktor got to work on changing his shirt. Once he'd done so, he fixed the collar. It was red instead of a dark green like the other one. He wrapped himself back in the asymmetrical corset before moving forward. He'd put his soiled shirt in the bathroom, though he'd folded it and put it with his other bloody clothes. He moved down the hallways before slowing to a stop at the top of the stairs. He could hear voices in the bar below. It wasn't nighttime yet, so at least he didn't have to worry about trying to weasel his way through a bunch of drugged up people now that he was fully corporeal. But... He hoped Sevika was at least downstairs.He made his way down the stairs and it quickly became apparent to him that she wasn't by how a good amount of the chatter in the room died down. He wouldn't look at them, instead making his way towards the bar. He startled as one of the men, clearly drunk out of his mind, reached out and grabbed his sleeve. This seemed to startle some of the other people as Viktor awkwardly pulled away from him."You need someone to pour you a drink, beautiful??""Want to come on over and have a seat now that you're solid? You can't tell me you're not pent up! Not with how you walk around." "Come on, show off a little! First time we've seen you out of uniform!" Viktor crinkled his nose in distaste as the boldest of the men started to call out to him. He knew this would happen and he still hadn't anticipated how irritated it would make him. He slipped behind the bar counter, kneeling down and hooking his fingers under the carpet. The whole thing suddenly lifted with a creak to reveal a steep staircase and Viktor sighed. That was going to be a nightmare, but... He'd prefer stairs over staying in this room.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It took Viktor thirty minutes to get down the stairs with his leg. The staircase was normal at first, if not narrow, before suddenly becoming a demented spiral that stretched down far further than he anticipated. And to put the cherry on top, Jinx wasn't even there when he finally reached the bottom. At least, he didn't see her and he received no response upon calling out. Needless to say, Viktor was annoyed. He could see the Hex Gemstone on some kind of tiny stand and he moved over to it with soft taps of his cane. He noticed Jayce's journal next to it, his brow furrowing. He settled himself down on the stool, propping up his leg. He reached out before dragging the journal over to himself. Even just... holding a book in his hands again. Viktor's fingers trembled and he opened it up. The pages were filled to the brim with notes. Updates on where to find important stones. As Viktor read through, he could pinpoint at least four times Jayce had been scammed of his money. He rolled his eyes. Five. Good gods, Viktor wondered if this was the reason Cassandra hadn't given him any of the family's wealth until he'd been accepted at the Academy. Every page was signed with his initials and Viktor scoffed quietly. Finally, he turned the page and he hadn't been expecting the thick black letters and the crinkled pages. He nearly dropped the journal in shock.
There's been a break in. It's all gone.
It's all gone.
IT'S ALL GONE.
Those three words were etched into the pages so deep that Viktor was shocked they hadn't torn. It continued for at least three pages, the words devolving. It's gone. It's gone. It's gone. And devolving.
Gone. Gone. Gone.
GONE. GONE. GONE.
Viktor's hands were shaking. Finally, he turned to a new page, his brow furrowed. The page was neatly marked with a date and even an entry number.
I am no longer at risk of expulsion. I committed a self-betrayal last night and gave into the impulses. As a result of this, someone is now chained to me. His name is Viktor.
What's his last name?
- Ask him his last name.
Update: He doesn't have one.
Find a way to unchain him.
What if he leaves? Viktor trembled as he stared at the entry. It seemed... Jayce really hadn't meant to keep him trapped. He turned the page and blinked in surprise at the tiny sketch of himself. It had been done on a post-it note and stuck in the pages of the journal. Next to it, there was a small note.
This is Viktor.
Yes, that... That was him. Viktor reached out, tracing his fingers over the sketch. The entry that accompanied the sketch seemed to be a number of thoughts. He wasn't sure what day this had been, but it seemed like they'd just moved into the new dormitory apartment.
I asked for a room with a balcony for Viktor, but the Professor denied it. He's told me it seems a terrible idea, considering what happened the last time Viktor had one. I don't see how it matters, considering Viktor isn't able to do it again. He should have a balcony. He likes them.
Viktor complained that the chain was too short again. I have to find a way to make it longer. He keeps getting stuck outside the bathroom while I'm in it. He's being annoying about it.
We have been doing a lot of possession experiments lately. Viktor never says no to them and I don't know why. He doesn't seem to get anything out of it and it doesn't seem to make him feel good too. Why does he keep saying yes?
Viktor stared at the entries in pain. When he turned the page, he nearly dropped the whole thing again, wondering how the pages could be so deceiving before he turned them. All of the words were capitalized and etched in thick black marker. He usually wrote in pen and it looked like the marker had just been the first thing Jayce could grab.
I FIGURED IT OUT
HES GOING TO LEAVE ME IF HE KNOWS
HES GOING TO LEAVE
I CANT LET HIM LEAVE
I CANT LET HIM FIND OUT HOW TO BREAK IT
I CAN FIX THIS
I KNOW HOW TO FIX THIS
DONT LEAVE ME DONT LEAVE ME DONT LEAVE ME DONT
Viktor's eyes were wide as he scanned the page over, his heart racing. Good gods. The very last entry in the journal looked like it was normal again. However, Viktor felt a chill as he read it.
I asked for Viktor's research on anatomy and the Professor says he still has one of his journals. I want to build a body for him. It has to be perfect. If I can pull it off, Viktor can be alive again. He tells me often he is fine with being dead, but the way he looks at some things in longing is telling enough to me. I think he misses being alive, but he's given up. I don't want him to give up. He cried tears of joy when he got to sleep again for the first time in ?? years. I sat with him for three days. In those three days, I felt like I could be normal. We had small conversations. I got him anything he wanted. He relied on me. It felt nice. I wish we didn't fight so much.
Viktor closed the journal, his fingers trembling. Had he... given up? He didn't think that was the right word for it. He'd been content. And what the hell was Jayce talking about?? They'd fought because of him. Good gods. Viktor should've just used the chain to suffocate him. Maybe he could've just snapped his neck and they would've matched. Viktor paused. No, he couldn't. Not only physically, but emotionally. Viktor wasn't... He didn't hurt people. He didn't recall ever wanting to hurt people either. His fingers dug into the journal as he held it against his chest. A chill went up his spine and he shakily raised his wrist. Was it not just the crystal Rune? Was it...? He stared at the Binding Rune in his wrist. No. No, he... Another on his other wrist. One on each ankle. One in his sternum. One on each knee. Fuck. If that was how Jayce had become with just one Rune on a leather bracelet, what the hell was going to happen with Viktor with this many carved straight into his body?? Panic filled his chest and he covered his mouth. He didn't want to be violent. He didn't want to have violent thoughts. He wasn't like that. He never wanted to be like that. He wanted to be kind. Viktor's hands were shaking. So far, the violent thoughts had only triggered in response to Jayce. He hadn't wanted to hurt anyone else like Jayce did. And why would he?? No one else had hurt him like Jayce did. The other didn't deserve his face on the buildings, he deserved his head on a pike. He deserved all of his teeth pulled out and his tongue removed. Viktor should've cut off his- "Stop!" Viktor quickly blurted out, his voice muffled into his hand. He threw the journal back on the table, staring at it with wide eyes. He had to stop. He didn't want to imagine that. He didn't want to think about how he could easily lure Jayce in and how easily he could surgically take him apart like a jigsaw puzzle. Jayce would let him too. Viktor could remove all his organs and pull his heart straight from his chest and Jayce would let him. Viktor could finally feel that man's blood slip through his fingers and he could finally watch the light leave his- "Stop. Stop, please." Viktor was already shaking. He got up so fast that he nearly fell over, the stool crashing to the ground as he grabbed the cane. He backed up with it, holding his head. He had to get out of here. He had to get away from anything that was Jayce's. Well... he glanced down at himself. Anything he was able to. He turned and made his way back up the stairs. About halfway up, he started to hear... music. He furrowed his brow. How... late was it? Was The Last Drop already open?? How long had he been stuck down here? His hands tightened on his cane. Did he even want to go back up there? He wasn't able to walk through everyone like he used to now. Well, he just needed to... get to the staircase. Right? Viktor sighed heavily through his nose. He made it to the top of the stairs and the thumping music was already threatening to give him a headache. He pushed the door up and furrowed his brow as he emerged into the seizure-inducing lighting. He let the door shut behind him, turning into a normal looking carpet again. He could smell Shimmer everywhere and he raised the back of his hand to his nose. He moved around the side of the bar, intending to keep himself close to the wall. No one on the dance floor seemed to be paying him any mind, but the same certainly couldn't be said for the tables. Viktor startled as someone caught him by the wrist. "Hey, beauty, looking for a place to sit??" The voice was smug and unfamiliar. Viktor shook his head, pulling his hand away. He intended to keep moving forward before he was suddenly yanked back by the belt loops of his pants. He ended up in someone's lap, his eyes wide and he froze up as he felt their palm under his chin. "Come on, stop and have a drink!" His mouth was forced open and he squeezed his eyes shut, nearly choking on the alcohol that was poured down his throat. He managed to yank himself free, coughing it up before he was grabbed again. Pulled back onto their lap and grabbed firmly by the waist. Let go. Let go, let go, let go. Viktor was starting to panic. He felt fingers be pushed into his mouth and he froze up completely. Don't. Don't do it. He was talking to himself. He wanted to bite them. He wanted to bite those fingers and he wanted to tear them straight off the knuckle. He couldn't. He couldn't do that. He couldn't do that. He gagged as the fingers pushed deeper into his mouth, pressing on his tongue. His heart was shuddering. "Look at him, being such a good boy." Fuck, he hated this. He hated them. Whoever it was, he hated them. He hated this. His wrists were burning. His ankles were burning. The center of his chest was burning. He couldn't do that. Don't do that. He wanted to tear them. He wanted to rip them and he wanted to tear them and he-Three seconds. Three seconds. Three seconds. For the bite. For the blood spray. For the scream. Three seconds of Viktor feeling something run down his chin before he was thrown to the floor. Pain exploded up his side, having landed on his already bruised areas. He had to fight back tears. He managed to turn himself over on his back, panting shakily. The music was mind numbing and the lights were flashing. He could see someone standing over him and it seemed like he was being yelled at. Before he could process anything else, there were three footsteps past him before the person in front of him got the nastiest left hook from a metal arm that Viktor had ever seen.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
There was a loud crashing as the man hit the table, breaking it in and causing all the drinks to slide in and smash down. Viktor could still taste blood and alcohol on his tongue. He flinched as someone grabbed him by the arm and heaved him to his feet. He stumbled as he was pulled along, unsure as to where his cane had fallen. Once it became clear he wouldn't be able to keep up, Viktor yelped as he was suddenly scooped up over someone's shoulder. He gagged a little before choking up something soft and spitting it out. It had felt like meat. He was still breathing heavily. Good gods, he hadn't even made it halfway across the room. They were at the stairs, finally heading up. There were much less people in the hallways. "S-Sevika-" "Don't talk yet." The other spoke in a firm tone, but Viktor wasn't sure if she was mad at him or not. She finally put him down outside the office door, though he took note of her pained grunt of effort. Viktor furrowed his brow as he slid down the wall to sit on the floor. Was she okay?? She looked like... She looked like she'd been beaten. Viktor became aware of... just how much... He shakily raised a hand to his mouth. Sevika knelt down in front of him on one knee. She furrowed her brow. "...I think I just hurt someone." Viktor managed in a shaking voice. That was a lot of blood. And none of it was his, based on the crimson hue. Sevika blinked and her shoulders seemed to relax as she shook her head."No, bookworm, you defended yourself. I might've just killed a man." She replied, her voice strained. Viktor blinked. Had he defended himself?? He swore he could taste bits in his teeth. Bits of... He inhaled shakily. He could taste alcohol too. "What were you doing down there?? The main room isn't a place for you, especially not at night and especially not after you got a body." "I-I was trying to see Jinx in her workshop, but she wasn't there." Viktor answered quietly. Sevika gave a heavy sigh, rolling her eyes. She gave a slightly amused scoff. "A-All those stairs for nothing, huh?" She joked in a quiet voice. Viktor stared at her before asking if she was alright. Sevika scoffed, though she did seem to appreciate his concern. "...Just got the shit kicked out of me in a fight. Different bar though." She made a vague gesture with her hand before scoffing. "How long were you in that room before someone grabbed you?" "Not even three minutes." Viktor replied, managing to sit himself up a little more. "I had a cane, but I don't know where it went." Sevika rolled her eyes and started to get up. "You don't have to go get it." "I'm going to go get it." Sevika replied flatly. Viktor sighed as he watched her move back down the hall. He could... A chill went down his spine as he saw the purple liquid dripping from under her cloak. Even her arm was broken?? Good gods, who had Sevika gotten in a fight with?? A bear?? Who would've beaten her up in a bar, let alone shatter her prosthetic?? Viktor gave a weak sigh. The Binding Runes around his body weren't burning anymore and he held a hand up to his head, glaring at the one on his wrist. "I hope you are happy." He muttered angrily at it. While he wasn't sure if he'd actually just bitten off a man's fingers, he'd certainly caused a lot of damage. Viktor wasn't a violent man. He'd never been a violent man. He squeezed his eyes shut, remaining leaned back against the wall. After another minute or two, he heard crashing and what sounded like someone being thrown down the stairs before Sevika appeared back around the corner, looking slightly annoyed. She was holding his cane in red-stained, metal claws. How hard had she hit that man?? Sevika held out the cane to him and Viktor thanked her as he took it. He was still shaken as he pushed himself to his feet, never having been grabbed like that before. No one had been able to touch him before. He couldn't even walk through a room anymore?? He held a hand up to his forehead. He paused as Sevika nudged his shoulder with her non-metal arm, raising a brow at him. "...Sevika, your arm is broken and leaking." His voice was hushed with worry.Sevika's shoulders tensed and she nodded, saying that she knew. She glanced back towards the stairs. "A lot of these guys are being rowdier than usual, but it wasn't any of them. It's from an old... pain in the ass." She muttered. She reached out, guiding Viktor to the door before slamming it open. She hadn't even knocked. Silco glanced up at them and his eyes went wide. "I leave you alone and you come back bloody again??" Silco asked Viktor, who Sevika helped settle down on the couch. She seemed slightly displeased about hearing that it was the second time, but she didn't say anything. Shimmer continued to leak out from under her cloak, spattering the floor. "And you...?" Silco seemed taken back. "The sister is back." Sevika stated bluntly. Viktor watched as Silco froze up. He scoffed after a moment, saying that wasn't possible. "She just ambushed me during a game of cards. Tell that to my fucking ribs." Sevika replied bitterly. Viktor furrowed his brow. The sister?? He wasn't sure what was going on. He turned his head away as they spoke, raising his fingers back to his mouth. The blood had dried down his chin and he wrinkled his nose, making a small noise of disgust. "Him?" Viktor jumped as Sevika gestured to him. "He said he was looking for Jinx and couldn't find her. Couldn't even make it halfway across the room before someone grabbed him." Silco looked extremely agitated before, but now it only seemed to become worse. He turned, opening his mouth, but stopped as Sevika interrupted, rolling her eyes. "I smashed the guy's skull through the table." Silco seemed to relax a little at that before sighing. He moved over to his desk, picking up the water glass he had and a handkerchief. He brought it over to Viktor, who thanked him quietly. "...And that is not your blood. Yours is blue." Silco noted, raising a brow at Viktor. Sevika echoed in confusion that his was blue. Viktor nodded to her, turning back to Silco before confirming it wasn't his."I r-really do think I just hurt someone-" He glanced over as Sevika clarified in a firm voice that he'd defended himself. Silco rolled his eyes, saying it was fine if Viktor had been forced to hurt someone. They didn't get it. Why didn't they...? "NO!!" Viktor suddenly snapped at both of them, making them stare at him in shock. "I-I'm sorry... I..." He raised a hand to his head, the other holding the water glass. He was shaking so much. "I can taste flesh in between my teeth. I think I... I think I just bit a m-man's fingers off. I am... I am not a violent person." His voice weakened. Silco shared a glance with Sevika before he moved forward. He sat next to him on the couch, asking what had happened. "Remember... I told you that his Rune is what made him violent and that's why we locked it away...?" Viktor's voice was weak. Silco paused. "I have... over four to five of that same Rune etched into my body." Silco glanced up at Sevika. She moved forward and knelt down, her arm still heard vaguely creaking beneath her cloak. "...What's the fear, bookworm?" "That I may try to hurt one of you. A-And I know you all can defend yourselves. I would not be difficult to fight. But all of the Runes I could try to remove are placed over... major blood arteries. If I try to disfigure the Runes, I fear this means I am now capable of dying again. And I do not think I'll come back a second time." Viktor's head was buried in his hand. Sevika raised a brow before saying he was afraid one of them would end up killing him. "That you would be forced to. I wouldn't wish the... guilt on any of you." "It is not death you fear, but the effect it will have on us?" Silco gave a sigh after a moment. "...Viktor, you have to harden your heart." "I do not know if I can." Viktor replied after a moment. "Good gods, what a joke this is. At least if I had stayed with him, maybe I could finally put an end to it." His voice was shaking. "Maybe I should just give myself up." Silco spoke in a sharp tone, saying that Viktor would not be returning to that man. It made him jump and he looked over. "Then what do I do?? Wait until I try to hurt one of you?? If I go back, I-I could just..." The Runes on his wrists gave a small glow. "Cut him open with any of those tools he used to build this thing. I could lure him easily and I could spread his insides out across the floor of the lab just as effortlessly. And he would let me. He would let me kill him and I know it." The words spilled from his mouth and he finally caught himself, covering his mouth and coughing shakily. He paused as Silco asked what he would use. What he would...? What? "U-Use?" Viktor echoed. Like what tool? "He keeps a number of items in that lab of his. I saw several items for welding and shaping metal. He has several precision knives and every single one of them would fit-" The Runes lit up again. "-perfectly between his fingers and I could sever those bits of skin just so those hands could never close around my throat again. Just so he can never touch me again, I could render his fingers immobile. Permanently. Why should I allow him to live without struggle when he's refused to fix mine??" His bad leg twitched and he hadn't even meant for it. Viktor quickly stopped himself. Sevika's eyes were wide as she stared at him and he glanced to the side. Silco didn't seem as shocked. He asked if Viktor felt better. Better? Did he feel...? Viktor blinked a couple times. He... He did. Right. Right, he'd done this before with Jayce. But... he didn't have any wants. He didn't want to do any of that, it just wouldn't stop getting in his head. "It... feels quelled." He admitted weakly. He buried his head in his hands. "...I feel like I am going to be sick. These words. These thoughts. I-I don't like them. I don't want them..." His voice became strangled. He jumped as he felt Silco's hand take his shoulder. "We may... have a way for you to vent those frustrations, but it would mean... you helping me." Silco said, each word careful. Viktor said his name doubtfully. "A threat to Jinx has returned to the undercity. Someone who could hurt her deeper than anything." His eyes scanned Viktor's over. "Would you be willing to help?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Drip. Drip. Drip.
Viktor furrowed his brow. The echo that noise let off was far too loud for him to still be asleep on the couch in Silco's office. He blinked open his eyes and instantly shrank back. He was met with that purple-tinted, starry sky. His breathing quickened and he sat himself up. His... hair was glowing white as well. He could see it drifting around his head. The lower portion of his body was encased in that white silhouette again. Why was he back here?? He shouldn't have let Silco kick Jinx out. Maybe if someone had actually slept in the office with him... Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, trying to force himself away from this place. Wake up. Wake up, wake up, wake up. Viktor flinched, his eyes widening as that voice erupted from behind him. That voice... made of many voices... all at once. "Welcome back." The Hexcore managed to sound smug in every voice it was using and Viktor's fingers curled into the reflective ground. "Let me out of here." He demanded, refusing to even look at it once again. It was different this time. He could hear pacing. Footsteps. He paused as he stared down at his arm. Instead of the webbing, the silhouette looked cracked. It looked like the cracks had been filled in with gold. He froze up as he felt hands on his shoulders. He... recognized those hands. "That color looks good on you. I just learned about this process earlier. One takes something broken and pieces it back together with precious metals. Jayce showed me a book on it. That is my first attempt." The Hexcore sounded proud of itself, but Viktor was absolutely paralyzed. "Why do you look like him??" He asked aloud, seeming to surprise it. "How do you know that? You're not even looking at me. Mm, maybe he was right. You know him better than I thought." It sounded intrigued and Viktor felt sick again. Jayce's hands practically swallowed his shoulders. The Hexcore was very much leaning on him, but Viktor barely felt any weight. He gripped his cracked arm, repeating his question. "This is the form that is most visually appealing to you." No. No, it couldn't be. Viktor's shoulders sank and he buried his face in his hands. Fuck. He repeated the swear out loud. Really?? He slipped his hands around the back of his neck, where the distorted Desire Rune would've been. The Hexcore broke out in that delighted, demented laughter again. Viktor couldn't stand it. He pulled his knees up against himself, burying his face against them. He could hear the Hexcore pacing around him and it irritated him. Was it studying him?? "You don't seem pleased by this. With how he speaks of you, I expected a different reaction." Viktor spoke sharply, seeming to surprise it. "How he speaks of me is of his own illusion. It is what he believes me to be like and often means lying to himself. And, in turn, lying to you." The Hexcore gave a small hum of consideration. "How curious. He was right about many things though. It was him you saw as a result of the Desire Rune. And it is him you think of as a result of the Binding Runes. He even predicted you would have a preference for surgical violence instead of animalistic." Viktor had completely frozen up. "He what??" He whispered shakily, lifting his head. There. The Hexcore was using Jayce's form. From the shoulders down, it sported the same white silhouette. That neatly styled hair was white as well. However, the eyes kept changing colors. Switching from warm to cold, red to blue, pink to grey. And yet the Hexcore gazed upon him with a morbid curiosity that Viktor had only ever seen in Jayce's face. It haunted him. But right now... "He knew what these would do to me... He knew these would cause violent impulses. Put thoughts in my head that I don't want. And he made predictions???" Viktor couldn't even begin to explain how absolutely livid he was. "Of course. I watched him carve the Runes. I did ask if the Rune in the center of your chest was truly necessary, as you only needed them on your limbs, but he insisted. It seems you've... disfigured your Desire Rune. Would you like me to fix it?" Instantly, Viktor's eyes widened and he covered the back of his neck. "NO." He said firmly, his gaze fixed coldly on the Hexcore. "Do not touch it. Do not touch me." Viktor hated how fascinated the Hexcore seemed by his reactions. "But you yearn for him. Why would you not want the Rune to satiate that while you are separated from him?" Viktor instantly snapped that he did not yearn for Jayce and the Hexcore tipped its head. There'd been a small smile on its lips that seemed to simply be its resting face. It only stared down at Viktor, seeming expectant. "I do not yearn for Jayce Talis. That man has been nothing but a scourge on my existence. Ever since I saved him, everything has only become worse because of it." The Hexcore only continued to stare and Viktor couldn't handle it. "Stop looking at me like that! I am no science experiment and I am no animal for you to gawk at!!" His sudden outburst seemed to make the Hexcore jump back a little, but it only broke out in that wild, unbearable laughter again. "You have a bite to you! He was right about that as well. I didn't believe it since you were so quiet the first time." The Hexcore moved in slow, yet deliberate circles around him. The way Jinx would circle him felt silly and playful. The way the Hexcore was circling him felt curious and dangerous. Like the moment it found out what it wanted to about him, it would eat him alive. Viktor's fingers dug into his cracked arm. "He's thinking of you now. Holding himself in his hand. Pretending it's you and calling out your name. He is always so noisy when he does this. Even noisy in general. I quite like your quiet demeanor a little more."The Hexcore rolled its eyes as Viktor felt heat flush his face. Jayce was what?? Viktor buried his face in his hand. He didn't need to know that. Good gods. "Y-You don't have to tell me that. What he does to... pleasure himself is not of my concern." Viktor stated. His eyes moved to the ground. "And, no, even if it's my name he's saying, it still does not concern me. I do not hold.. interest in this topic." He startled as the Hexcore suddenly knelt in front of him, its head resting in its hand as it looked him over doubtfully. When it spoke again, it was one voice. Jayce's voice. "Actually, I believe you do. Your heart rate's increased. Your face has flushed. You are not as quick to answer as before." Those shining eyes scanned him over and a smile finally appeared on its face. Amused and playful. When it laughed again, it sounded just like him. Calm and cheerful. Viktor's chest ached and the Hexcore tipped its head once more. "Yes, he is quite noisy. The way he's using his hand concerns me if that's what he's imagining as you. It seems like that pace would be far too rough for someone of your stature, but I suppose judging a book by its cover would be rude of me." Viktor's face only grew hotter and he buried his head in his arms as he pleaded for the Hexcore to stop telling him about it. "Very well. I am curious about where you are. He says your city is quite different. However, when I pull from your head, all I see are alleyways and a building with strobing lights inside. Surely that is not what all of Zaun is?" The Hexcore was doing what?? Pulling from his head?? Viktor could only stare at it. "How are you in my head like this?? I am nowhere near you. I am keeping myself as far away from you and him as possible. And yet you appear to me with his face. You... You are quite a terrible comedian." Viktor watched as the Hexcore gave a quiet bit of laughter. All of a sudden, Jayce's form exploded outwards into a writhing mass of that webbing pattern. Twisting and glowing. Viktor flinched backwards, nearly becoming sick. Drip, drip, drip. The webbing all seemed to be leaking purple and white fluids that rained down around him. Viktor felt like he was staring into a hive of flesh. Some part of some bigger animal. Something much, much higher in the food chain than he was. "Good thing I wasn't putting on a show then." The Hexcore's twisted, fleshy form nearly made him sick to his stomach and he could feel the tears running down his face. "You have a spice to you that I like, Viktor. I have grown... so... bored of bland flavoring. I need something new. Something exciting. Someone that will fight me every step of the way. This! This is why Jayce and I get along so well. We want the same things! Heat, excitement, conflict!" Dealing with one thrill-seeker had been more than enough for Viktor, but dealing with two might've broken him. Especially if the second was no mortal at all and was actually a sentient doorway to an unseen realm of untapped magic potential. He jumped as the Hexcore laughed again. "Such violent thoughts you two share. If I hadn't been in both of your heads, I would've thought you two wanted to kill each other!" There was a moment of silence before the Hexcore spoke again, sounding proud of itself. "That's my show." Viktor was trembling as he glanced up at it. The purple-tinted starry sky and the reflective ground had been completely consumed by the Hexcore's massive fleshy form. He could still hear the dripping and it was driving him crazy. Drip, drip, drip. Viktor inhaled shakily. There was a low warble of what sounded like amusement. All of those voices had returned at once. "I did notice he did not fix your leg. He informed me that you'd had a bad knee when you were alive. He ignored my offers to help. Will you do the same?" Fix his leg? "...Can you do that?" He asked after a moment. The Hexcore gave that soft laughter again that haunted him to his core. "I... can fix... anything, Viktor."It sent a chill up Viktor's spine and he tensed his body up. "And you want something of me in return?" The Hexcore gave another rumbling chuckle, seeming to be echoed by a high-pitched giggle. "He gave me the rest of your bones yesterday. I need nothing more of you... physically." The Hexcore seemed to stretch itself down under the reflective ground. All the swirls Viktor had been seeing suddenly changed direction. He shrieked as they seemed to burst up from the ground in those fleshy purple tendrils, wrapping their way up his leg. "Y-You ate the rest of my hand??" He sputtered. The Hexcore hummed before speaking in a dismissive tone. "Yes. It was stale. Hold still." Viktor's eyes widened as the tendrils started to grip his leg crushingly tight. "It'll only be my second attempt at this process. Bear with me please."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
If Viktor had ever wondered what it felt like to be welded together like metal (which he hadn't), he would've imagined it felt a lot like what his leg was currently going through. The crunch and the feeling of his knee absolutely shattering had been agonizing enough, but he wasn't sure how loud he screamed when he felt the Hexcore start to put it back together. The pain was searing and felt like a fire had been ignited right along the bone, underneath the muscle. Viktor was sure he was crying. He might've even been having a nosebleed too, but he wasn't sure. His vision had gone black. He wasn't sure he was even in that purple-tinted place anymore. He didn't know where he was. He wasn't sure he cared with how much fucking agony he was in. The darkness felt like it was caving in on him. Pressing in on every side and keeping him from even reaching down to his twitching leg to provide some kind of comfort. The breath Viktor dragged in was so much softer than he would've expected as his eyes opened. He was left staring at the ceiling of Silco's office. He was laying back against the couch, panting heavily. He shakily raised his hand to his face. He'd been right. Tears. And a nosebleed. He wasn't even aware this body would've been capable of that. He started to move his other hand before pausing. Someone was holding it. He managed to sit up just a little and glanced down. His eyes softened as he quieted his breathing. Jinx's pale hand was loosely holding his. She was asleep, her head in her arm. She was on the floor with her head and arm resting on the couch. Viktor managed the smallest smile. He sat up a little more. Even though his throat felt absolutely raw, Jinx hadn't woken up. Maybe his screaming hadn't broken into the real world, which relieved him. A glow caught his eye. His arm. And his... Viktor furrowed his brow. He could see the cracks glowing along his leg, even through his pants leg. He didn't even want to look at it. He laid his head against the side of the couch with a heavy sigh, closing his eyes. He could see the cracks glowing through his shirt sleeve. If the Hexcore had truly followed its process, he should've been able to walk now. He should've. He hoped the Hexcore hadn't just shattered his whole leg and pieced it together with pretty colors, only for him not to be able to walk. Viktor gently untangled his hand from Jinx's, moving the blanket that had covered him. He draped it over her shoulders and carefully moved off the couch. He staggered as he pushed himself to his feet. He quickly grabbed his cane and carefully took a step or two forward. He squeezed his eyes shut. His leg felt stiff. There wasn't any pain from his knee, but he wasn't sure this alternative was much better. Well, he did figure the Hexcore had just poured its equivalent of molten metal through his skin. Perhaps his leg needed a few more hours. He... Viktor glanced over at the large window. It was almost completely dark in the room. Nighttime. Maybe he could... take a walk. He'd been weighing Silco's offer and had even started to accompany Sevika out on patrols. At the very least, Sevika had said he could lure the woman in and she could take care of the rest, if his urges didn't kick in. Viktor rubbed his forehead, closing his eyes again. He... He wanted to take a walk. He glanced back at Jinx, his eyes soft again. His hair felt... different. He reached up and slid his hand over his head before giving a weak chuckle. It seemed like Jinx had braided his hair. She'd left his bangs out at least. He moved over to Silco's desk, pulling over a small pad of paper and a pen. He wrote out a note for Jinx, saying he was going to take a walk. That if he wasn't back an hour after sunrise, to assume that he'd been captured again. He didn't want to panic her, of course, but... Good gods, it had already happened twice. He rolled his eyes. At least they knew where to find him and Jinx would absolutely blow out Jayce's kneecaps this time. He took the notepad over to her and laid it down before turning away. Three steps to get to the door. Three taps of his cane. He slipped out of the room, softly shutting the door before making his way down the darkened hallways. He moved down the stairs next. Silco had started closing The Last Drop during the middle days of the week ever since they'd received news of this woman arriving back in Zaun. Viktor suspected it may have had something to do with his... incident as well. He could still vaguely taste the blood in his mouth. Despite his fears, he didn't experience any urges to hurt Silco, Sevika or Jinx. A few of Silco's men? Absolutely. But not the three closest to him and it relieved him. Viktor's cane tapped softly against the floor as he moved across the empty main room. He took his cloak down from the hook next to the door. Sevika had given him one of hers, although she made sure it was hooded. He slipped it on before opened the doors and stepped outside. He shivered a little. It was starting to creep towards the winter months again, but this cloak was the best protection he had. His breath was vaguely seen in front of him in small puffs. He could only stare at it before glancing up. He could do a lap around the outskirts closer to Piltover. It was... risky, but it was also the only path he knew like the back of his hand. There was almost no one in the street except for the occasional Shimmer addict that he would watch scuttle back into the darkness like a spooked animal when he passed. It made his shoulders sink. To live like that... No one deserved it. Even with his hood up, he still caught the attention of the Enforcers by the bridge and one started to approach him. Viktor's hand tightened on his cane. He hadn't written that note to Jinx as some kind of prediction. His grip loosened a little when the Enforcer pulled off their mask and Marcus sighed. He glanced him over. "...I thought Silco had been pulling my leg when he told me. But I guess..." He trailed off. Viktor's eyes lowered as he shook his head, giving a helpless shrug. "...I should warn you now to go into hiding. The Council has been tossing around the idea of issuing a warrant for your capture and return." Viktor froze up, glancing back at him. "Not as an arrest. Just a return." Marcus assured him quietly. "It was proposed by two of the Councilors." Two?? Which two? Mel had to be one of them. What had Jayce told them about him? Were they going to bring him back to study? To gawk at? "They insist that... Councilor Talis... had his project stolen and he'd nearly been killed in the process. That the body was supposed to be nothing more than an anatomically accurate dummy for students at the Academy. That the... malicious spirit that had attached itself to him had stolen it..." Marcus trailed off, likely to give Viktor a moment to process. And he needed it. Three seconds. Three seconds. He inhaled softly. "Councilor...?" He managed in a shaking voice. He couldn't even look at Marcus. "Why would they let such a man on that Council?" "The Man of Progress, Viktor." Marcus replied, his voice hushed. "Their good old golden boy who just survived a horrific attack from Zaunites." Viktor's hands were shaking on his cane. "Many praised the decision, saying he deserved it after... everything he's gone through." Everything he'd gone through?? Him?? Viktor bit back the evil words he almost uttered, calming himself with a breath. "And the... the malicious spirit...?" His voice became slightly strangled. Marcus' gaze averted and he gave a small sigh through his nose. Viktor stared forward and he raised a shaky hand to his head. "Do... you believe me to be malicious?" He asked, glancing back over at him. Marcus replied that he didn't in a softer voice. Viktor was quiet for a moment. "...Thank you, Marcus. I'll be sure to stay out of sight best I can." He promised softly. "Goodnight." Marcus seemed slightly concerned about his curtness, but he nodded and turned away, moving back towards the bridge. Viktor moved in the other direction. He wasn't sure how long it was. Three minutes? Ten? But soon, his leg... Good gods, his leg. Without a warning, it buckled and Viktor collapsed against an unoccupied food stand. "Ugh..." It was sinking in properly. Whatever adrenaline he'd been on to keep him distracted had just run out and he could only tremble in place. He shakily stretched his hand out, placing it on his leg. His breath came out in cold puffs and his fingers were freezing. He could feel the cracks in his skin. It was really sinking in now. His knee had just been shattered apart and pieced back together with some form of magic or metal. And he'd been awake. Aware. He paused as he heard quick footsteps and he startled as someone knelt down in front of him. "Are you alright?? You collapsed quite suddenly." The woman's voice sounded slightly uncertain and Viktor was a little confused. No one in Zaun ever stopped to ask something like to someone curled up on the ground, unless they wanted to run the risk of being attacked by a Shimmer addict. Who was this? Viktor glanced up to meet blue eyes. Dark blue hair was dangling from underneath her hood and... Viktor furrowed his brow. She looked familiar, but he couldn't quite place it. He pushed away the thought and nodded. "F-Forgive me, my, uh, my leg is quite finicky in the cold weather." He gestured to it quietly. The woman seemed worried as she glanced down at his cane. "You... do have a home, don't you? Do you need help reaching it?" With how concerned and genuine she sounded, Viktor doubted she was a Zaunite at all. "...Are you from Piltover?" His soft question seemed to make the woman freeze up and she quickly glanced around before asking what had given her away in a much quieter voice. "No one ever approaches someone on the ground. Usually, they are Shimmer addicts. They will either attack you or rob you." Viktor replied. He dug his cane into the stone road and used it to push himself to his feet. The woman stood up with him and... Viktor furrowed his brow. She was taller than him. The woman still seemed worried before asking if his leg always gave out so suddenly. Viktor sighed, his breath coming out in a soft cloud. "I'm afraid it will only grow worse from here." The woman couldn't seem to stop looking him over and she furrowed her brow, crossing her arms over her stomach. "Forgive my suddenness, but I feel as if I may have seen you before." Viktor blinked and glanced up, asking if that was so. "I know it sounds odd, but your face seems familiar." They must've met before. They recognized each other from somewhere. The woman paused before quickly holding out her hand. "M-My name is Caitlyn." Even that name was familiar. Viktor reached out, politely shaking her hand. "Viktor." He pulled his hand back, resting it on his cane. "Caitlyn, I do hope you are not here by yourself. A Piltover citizen this deep in Zaun... It is not safe for you." He was genuinely worried, his brow furrowed. The way the woman held herself was proper, even though it seemed like she wasn't trying to. She'd grown up wealthy, he could tell that much. "Oh, no, no. I am currently being guided around by a Zaunite, but I..." Caitlyn glanced around and gave a quiet sigh. "Well, I suppose I was. I think she may have left me behind again. I don't believe she is fond of me for enlisting her to show me around the city." Her hands had raised in front of her and she nervously picked at her nails. "So... perhaps I am alone. But that is no matter. I am more than able to defend myself." Viktor watched her before offering to walk her back to the bridge with a soft voice. Caitlyn's eyes filled with appreciation and relief, but she shook her head. "No, thank you. I appreciate the offer and your concern, but I am actually searching for someone. However, I am afraid no one wishes to give me information about them." Viktor paused and glanced up at her. Oh no. He had a funny feeling he already knew. Was she looking for Silco? Viktor wasn't sure if she was looking to get Shimmer or not. She didn't seem like the type. Caitlyn continued to pick at her nails and Viktor spoke again. "I could try to help you best I can, but I'm afraid I do not know much." Caitlyn sighed before saying that was okay and she'd take whatever she could get. "Who are you looking for?" Caitlyn glanced off to the side, seeming to become slightly uncertain again. If she'd really gone around asking questions like that, it was no wonder she was nervous now. Viktor couldn't imagine how many fearful or bad reactions she'd spurred. He wasn't expecting her answer and it... Admittedly, it sent him into a completely shocked silence. His whole body locked up. "I am looking for a girl named Jinx. No one seems willing to tell me of her." Caitlyn picked at her nails before her eyes moved up to meet Viktor's. She spoke politely and earnestly, likely since he was the first one to speak to her so cordially. "W-Would you happen to know anything about her?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"...Jinx? That's quite dangerous to be asking about. I can see why no one wished to answer." Viktor gave a quiet gesture, silently asking if they could walk. His leg was starting to loosen up and he could actually start bending it a little more now. Caitlyn joined him at his side and matched her pace to his. "She is quite smart. Destructive. Sometimes I look at her and I mourn a child who had to grow up like that. Under constant threat." Viktor was telling the truth. Despite being with her while she'd grown up, Viktor did feel like Jinx's mentality had been stunted at some points. That when she caused her playful bouts of property damage and destruction, she was simply following a childish desire. Caitlyn replied that she was dangerous. That she had killed people. "Of course. She works with a chem-baron, Caitlyn. It... comes with the territory." Caitlyn asked if he knew her and Viktor tipped his head. "We've spoken." The conversation was proving to be full of small half-truths. "She is kind to me. Curious." Caitlyn gave a small sigh through her nose. "Growing up in a place like this... It is... uneasy. When there is little sun and constant pressure from above, saplings will always grow... twisted." Caitlyn finally slowed to a stop. She had her arms crossed and her brow furrowed. "...Are you not close to my age, Viktor?" Viktor blinked in surprise, tipping his head as he turned to look back at her. "You speak as if you are much older." Viktor gave a small chuckle, saying he was flattered. Caitlyn managed a small smile in response, but he could tell she was troubled by his answers. Both about his age and about Jinx. Viktor looked her over again before his eyes drifted to the ground. He spoke quietly, saying he hoped he hadn't upset her with his answer about Jinx. "Hm? Oh, no, no. Your... insight into this is very useful. Thank you.""I hope your guide comes back, Caitlyn. I must return home. Please stay safe." Viktor stated, his voice becoming ever so slightly urgent. Caitlyn blinked and that appreciation shone in her eyes again. "Goodnight." "Goodnight, Viktor. Travel safely. Rest your leg when you arrive home." Caitlyn gave a small bow to him and he smiled before turning away. He made his way down the street and gave a quiet sigh as he turned the corner. Why was Caitlyn asking around about Jinx? Was that the woman Silco and Sevika were talking about? It couldn't have been. They'd called her a heavy-hitter. Someone who spoke with her fists. Caitlyn's knuckles had been unblemished and her nails carefully tended to. It absolutely couldn't be her. So then what was her motivation behind searching for Jinx? All of this greatly worried Viktor and he paused, stopping in place. He furrowed his brow and carefully lifted his leg again, stretching it out. It felt much less stiff. He hesitated before lifting his cane. He took a few steps forward. Three steps forward. His walking was messy, but he was... he was doing it. He was walking and he didn't feel any pain from his knee. He let out a soft, shaky breath of relief. So it had fixed it. Of course, it seemed like the Hexcore had chosen one of the most absolutely agonizing ways to do it, but it had... fixed his leg. Despite its dismissive demeanor and its malicious curiosity, the Hexcore did seem to keep its word on things. It had yet to lie to him. It told him whatever he wanted. Anything that Jayce was doing at the moment. Even... things he could've gone without hearing. He sighed as he placed his cane back down. Even if he could walk, moving with the cane felt better right then. Familiar. Viktor finished his loop and arrived back in the intersection containing The Last Drop. He moved up to the doors and slipped inside. Unbuttoning his cloak proved to be a task on its own, his fingers freezing. He hadn't anticipated that and he was hoping his lack of planning could just be chalked up to the fact that he hadn't felt temperature in over a decade. Viktor hung the cloak up next to the door before turning and making his way across the darkened main room. He climbed the stairs once more before moving through the hallways. Pushing open the office door, he paused. Jinx had moved. Now, she was curled up in Silco's chair, her knees hugged tightly against her chest. She looked like she'd made herself as small as possible. She'd left the blanket on the floor as well. Viktor's shoulders sank. He moved over, scooping up the blanket and heading over to the desk. His note was on the desk in front of her, anxious crinkling having been applied to the edges. Viktor tucked the blanket around Jinx. He watched her with warm eyes before stretching out his hand and brushing her hair out of her face. She continued to sleep and Viktor turned away before reaching out and taking the note. He crumpled it up and disposed of it before moving back to the couch and sitting himself down. He could only lean on his cane for a moment. He was absolutely wracking his brain trying to figure out where he'd met Caitlyn before. It just wasn't clicking. He... Viktor's shoulders slowly tensed up. Jayce was a Councilor?? That man was on the Council now?? Good gods, Viktor was as good as dead again. And he'd convinced the Council Viktor was malicious?? Had they all really believed it? There was no way Heimerdinger had believed it. He knew Mel had mentioned to him that the entire Council had been aware of his presence before, but what had Jayce told them?? He was certain that it wasn't what had actually happened. And having the audacity to say he'd stolen the body?? Jayce had forced him into this body. Binded it to him. He hadn't wanted this. Viktor's hands were tight on his cane again and he tried to control his breathing. Jayce had forced him into this body and he'd carved his initials into his very skin. Viktor's... fingers were still freezing. He furrowed his brow and lifted his hand, turning it over in confusion. He finally raised it up to his neck, shivering as he pressed his cold fingers against his skin. His neck was warm. Viktor stared forward before closing his eyes and letting out a small, frustrated swear. "Gods, he's a fucking genius." And he didn't mean it in a conniving or sarcastic way. No, Jayce was a genius. This body was an absolute marvel of technology. Temperature fluctuations?? This circulatory system?? "How the hell did he do this?? With no organic material? All synthetic?? If he hadn't already been crazy, he would have lost his mind creating this." Viktor couldn't help his awe. Despite his anger with the other, the scientist and the anatomist in him was so impressed, he could barely stand it. He slowly pulled his hand from his neck. His fingers were warm again. He let out a scoff of disbelief, shaking his head. He leaned back against the couch fully, squeezing his eyes shut. These cold hands would've been agonizing to feel around one's throat. If only he could see it. If only he could see the light leave Jayce's eyes and the blood vessels burst into bruising beneath his hands. He wanted to hear that death rattle once he pulled his hands away. He wanted to crush Jayce's throat in. He just didn't want him to speak anymore. All that silver tongue had caused Viktor was pain. All it had caused him was trouble. He wanted nothing more than to remove it straight from Jayce's body. Viktor's eyes opened and he quickly covered his own mouth. He felt queasy again. This... This wasn't him. He wasn't like this. He glared at one of the glowing Runes in his wrist. "Just stop. Please just stop. I am not like this." He whispered. He raised his hand to his head, burying his face in it. "These thoughts are not mine. They frighten me." His voice was breathless and weak. The floor creaked and Viktor paused, lifting his head. Jinx was staring at him with sunken shoulders, holding the blanket in her arms. Viktor met her eyes and he finally scoot himself to the side. Jinx took the unspoken invitation, moving over and sitting down, leaning against him as she pulled her legs up onto the couch. She laid the blanket over the both of them half-heartedly. "...I hear things too. They laugh at me a lot." Viktor glanced down at her. Even if it had never been brought up, he could tell Jinx saw things that weren't there. Heard things no one else could. "It feels like someone else keeps dipping in and out of my head. Using my voice and disappearing again." Jinx's voice cracked a little. "Is that what you feel like?" She sounded just a little desperate. "...It does. I feel as if I am having thoughts that do not belong to me. Thoughts I would never have by myself. I... I am not a violent man, Jinx." She whispered that she knew, curled up against his side. "And yet, these thoughts... They horrify me. I am not meant for those kinds of thoughts." Jinx nodded in agreement before saying he was stick-thin with a bad leg. Viktor paused before rolling his eyes. "That's not what I mean, Jinx." He said, his voice a little scolding. A small smile pulled at Jinx's lips. It was silent between them for another few moments."Y'know if you'd gotten taken again, I would've gone and got you, right?" Viktor glanced down at Jinx as she spoke before nodding, saying he knew. And that's why he'd left the note. "I think I really would've done him in if he got you a third time. I'm really, really serious. I think I would've killed him." Her voice gave the smallest tremble and Viktor replied that he knew. He stretched his arm around her, rubbing her shoulder. Jinx's lip twitched a little and she lowered her head before burying it against his side. She'd done this all the time with Silco when she'd been smaller. When she was upset or frightened. And this was what Viktor had been talking about with Caitlyn. He mourned the child who had to grow up like this. Forced to be strong with no regard for the mental psyche. Viktor took in a quiet breath. "...I might end up killing him." He said softly. He felt Jinx pause before she asked if he really thought he could do it. Since he was so small compared to him. And he didn't have any weapons. "I wouldn't need them. He would let me close. I've been playing with the idea of going back to him just so I could finish the job." Jinx asked what would happen if he couldn't. "Well, you would gladly finish him off, I'm sure." Jinx instantly replied that she would. "Silco isn't as nimble as he was. But, despite this being an absolute bane on my existence, this body is young. I could... We could..." He trailed off and Jinx glanced up at him. Viktor furrowed his brow. They could kill him. Easily. If he and Jinx went together, they could kill him right now. Viktor sighed. "...No. We can't." Jinx asked why not. "Because he is too important now. To kill him would be a declaration of war. Especially with his... new position." Jinx furrowed her brow. "...Marcus informed me Jayce has been instated to the Council." Jinx's eyes widened and her jaw dropped in disbelief."How?? That guy's a lunatic! Every tool in the toolbox is gone! Every apple in the orchard is rotten!" She exclaimed. Viktor blinked before giving a soft chuckle. "I'm serious, Viktor!! How??" Viktor replied that Jayce had painted himself in a different light to the people of Piltover. To the Council. "He's more like a stain! A gross, ugly stain!" Viktor smiled and replied that he wasn't to them. "Then they're stupid as hell!" Viktor finally broke out in quiet laughter. Jinx sighed. "...We could go kill him. We could do it right now." "We could." Viktor agreed quietly before closing his eyes. "...But I am not risking the lives of other Zaunites to settle a vendetta. A war against a city that has made such advancements would be, uh... not ideal." He chuckled after a moment and glanced down at her. "I do appreciate your eagerness." Jinx scoffed. "He's hurt you. A lot. And badly." Jinx muttered. "I just don't think it's fair that he gets all that when he doesn't deserve it." Viktor's eyes softened and he rubbed her shoulder. He replied that he knew. Three seconds of silence. Viktor replied that's why he wanted to be the one to kill him.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"How is your leg?" Viktor's eyes shot open and he sat up, hearing that multi-layered voice echo around him. He was back in that purple-tinted place. Already?? The Hexcore hummed, having taken Jayce's shape once more. Viktor narrowed his eyes. "...It is fixed. What else do you want? You brought me back rather quickly." He stated, his voice guarded and suspicious. He knew he'd likely fallen asleep on the couch with Jinx. "And I see you... still have his form." Viktor rolled his eyes in immediate annoyance as the Hexcore bulldozed right over his dissatisfaction. "I think it's fascinating, really. The Desire Rune showed him to you and yet... you really do want to kill him, don't you?"Viktor froze up a little, his fingers slightly curling into the reflective ground beneath him. His leg was stretched out in front of him and he... Viktor stared at it. How much had the Hexcore broken it?? That was so many more cracks than he'd thought. He pulled his attention from it before looking back up. "...Unfortunately so. I was never one to wish this kind of thing on another. But he's... affected me in the worst possible way." He paused before glancing up again. "You're trying to distract me. What do you want?? Why am I back here?" The Hexcore rolled its eyes and turned away, leaving Viktor stunned that it had even done that. "We can't even have a proper conversation without you snapping at me. Your taste is becoming sour. I am... not a fan of sour things." Viktor furrowed his brow before his eyes widened and he screamed out as the cracks in his leg and arm suddenly lit up white-hot. It cooled back down after a minute, but Viktor was left panting, tears running down his face. The Hexcore turned back to him, Jayce's face displaying a bored expression. It scanned him over quietly before sighing. "I shouldn't do things like that. My apologies. Flaring my temper will do nothing good for me. It obviously never works for him, why would I do it? I should be smarter than that." The Hexcore sounded disappointed in itself, its brow furrowing. Viktor shrank back as it approached him, dropping on his elbows as it knelt down. It reached out and the moment those fingers touched his leg, an instant cooling sensation spread through it. The pain was ebbed away almost instantly and Viktor shivered, parting his lips to let out a soft breath. The Hexcore sat down next to him. Those eyes continued to glow and swirl. "I am still learning. You and him are the only two I am able to learn from and even then, my connection to you is foggy at best. I want to learn more from you. He's been teaching me things. Showing me books. Verbalizing information and feelings. However... he annoys me." The statement took Viktor back and his shock seemed to amuse the Hexcore. It gave that quiet, haunting chorus of a chuckle again. "...You dragged me back here because Jayce was being annoying?" He asked, scanning the Hexcore over in slight disbelief. "You are the only other one I am connected to. The only other company. And I much prefer you, despite a weaker connection. Your thoughts don't seem quite as... full of yourself. In fact, it seems you consider yourself very little in favor of those around you." Viktor narrowed his eyes. "...And now you wish to poke fun at me?" He asked, sounding completely unamused. He sighed and spoke before the Hexcore could answer. "I am surprised you did not see how egotistical that man was sooner. His recent... promotion and the attention that has likely followed must've only made it worse." The Hexcore was quiet as it scanned him over, seeming curious that he would interrupt it at all. It seemed to choose not to say anything about it before turning its head away. "He has brought a few people back to the lab due to his... promotion, as you call it. I was able to study intimate physical connections when he did so. He seems to thrive on their praise and adoration." Was Jayce still...? No, it sounded like he was... doing it willingly now. Viktor hesitated. He... wasn't sure how he felt about that. The Hexcore glanced over at him, tipping its head to the side. It seemed to be trying to gauge how he felt about that. "...This does not please you. Why is that? Your mix of emotions is jumbled, yet fascinating. You are... concerned... You are uncomfortable. And... envious...?" It echoed the last word curiously and Viktor's eyes widened. "I am not!" He exclaimed quickly. "There is no envy! You were... You were right about the first two. The last time he... mingled like that, it had been humiliating for him. I did not think he would feel comfortable enough for such things again." He rushed his explanation and the Hexcore only watched him with that same neutral expression. It only served to embarrass Viktor more and he turned his head away. "Y-You didn't just bring me here because Jayce was being annoying. There must be something else." He was desperate to both change the subject and voice his suspicions. "Perceptive little thing, aren't you? You're correct, there is a second reason. Your want to kill Jayce concerns me. Because I still need him to learn. Unless you are willing to connect me to others, I cannot allow him to die." Viktor immediately replied that he wouldn't connect it. That he couldn't do that when he still didn't quite trust it. And he... "You'd protect him?" He asked after a moment. His voice was weak and vaguely irritated. "Can I not just have this?" He startled as the Hexcore glitched, appearing on its knees in front of him as it reached out and firmly grabbed his chin. His breath caught in his throat as that face leaned it. "I have fixed your leg for you. Do not be ungrateful. I can undo it just as easily and it will be just as agonizing for you." It didn't even sound like a threat with how the Hexcore said it. It stated it like a fact. And Viktor knew it was. His body had locked up and the Hexcore looked him over. It suddenly leaned in and Viktor's eyes widened as he felt lips against his own. It sent a shiver down his body and he squeezed his eyes shut. He felt the kiss deepen and it shook him because this was what Jayce would feel like if he ever... That hand felt massive as it grabbed both of his wrists, holding them above his head. He was struggling to keep up with a tongue that tasted like... It... He could taste... cinnamon sugar. Apples. That hand released his wrists slowly and Viktor was left flushed and panting as the other pulled away. The Hexcore seemed curious as it raised a hand to its mouth. "Hm. That's why he does it so often, I suppose. To answer your question, no. I cannot let you have this. That man is still of use to me. I can't have him dead just yet." The Hexcore seemed to completely and utterly disregard what it had just done, continuing the conversation like nothing had happened at all. Viktor was completely speechless, still trying to control his breathing. His heart was pounding and he finally sat up. "W-Why did you do that??" Viktor sputtered. His face felt like it was on fire. The Hexcore glanced back over at him with a raised brow. "I watch him do it with the people he returns with. I am unsure of its exact meaning, but it always quiets the partner back down into a more relaxed state." The Hexcore shrugged its shoulders, giving a vague gesture. Viktor could only stare at it. "That is not something you just do to someone. That is reserved for consensual intimacy!" He exclaimed in shock. The Hexcore furrowed its brow. "B-Both sides must agree to it." "Your emotions accepted it immediately. Desperately, even. Was that not agreement?" Viktor felt his face grow even hotter. "M-My emotions are jumbled and confused. Your words are getting to me." "No, I don't think so. That was something you wanted. I can feel your guilt. I can feel everything, Viktor. Have you forgotten our connection? I can see what you want. Sense what you want. And it's a curious thing indeed. You want him to come find you again." Viktor's heart was racing and he shook his head, starting to protest. "You want him to come find you. You want him to keep coming back to find you. You want to be hunted down and found. Captured. Hunted like prey. It gives you a thrill. I sense it." Viktor quickly stated that it didn't, his voice scrambled. What was it talking about?? He didn't want Jayce to come find him. Why would he...? That couldn't be true. His hands were still tightly curled up at his side. It couldn't be true. "You want him to keep coming back to find you. Over and over and over again. Are you excited to see how creative he gets in his efforts?"No. No, he... Viktor shook his head. "I just do not want anyone hurt. I do not want anyone dead because of his obsession with me. I cannot bear that guilt." The Hexcore let out a hum of acknowledgement. "He is unwilling to kill. Unwilling to hurt. Except... when it comes... to you." Viktor tensed up a little. Jayce wanted to hurt him still?? Hadn't he done enough already?? "The hurt he wishes to inflict upon you is different. New. At the very least, it is certainly new to me." Viktor furrowed his brow before asking what it was. "What torturous plan does he have now?? He has already lamented to me about his want to pull me open. Rip me apart. What else does he want?? Does he wish to burn me? Drown me??" The Hexcore was quiet and it only seemed to scan him over. Viktor... didn't like that one bit. He scrunched up his shoulders. "What is it?" "I believe it to be too much to show you. You'd immediately yank yourself from this place." Viktor stared at it before finally asking what it was in a defeated voice. "Do you wish for me to show you? It involves consuming you and you have said intimate activities are to be... agreed upon." The Hexcore was learning. Viktor's face only flushed more. Consuming him?? "...These noises and movements do not extend to the waking world, do they?" The Hexcore shook its head, resting its cheek against its hand as it watched him with another bored expression. Was he about to be... physically taken by this thing? Could he allow that?? He gave a heavy sigh through his nose. "I'll agree upon it. But you must stop if I tell you to do so." The Hexcore seemed surprised by this. "Intimacy... is about trust. If you just do what you want without any regard for me, I will not trust you to be intimate again." The Hexcore paused, seeming to think that over before nodding. "I believe I understand then. If you ask me to, I will stop." Viktor felt a small bit of relief in his chest. Good. It understood that much, at least. He froze up a little as the Hexcore appeared in front of him. That huge hand cupped his neck and tipped it backwards. Viktor's face flushed and he squeezed his eyes shut, feeling small bites against his skin. He let out a soft breath. The other hand engulfed his shoulder and he... Viktor gave a small shudder. Something about being reminded how much smaller he was to Jayce in comparison. It made him twitch in places he would never speak of. The bites seemed to grow a little harder and bigger. "Hah..." Viktor couldn't stifle his noise in time and he felt the Hexcore pause just for a moment before continuing. It seemed to carefully choose a spot on his shoulder before leaning down. Viktor groaned as he felt its teeth sink in. And they bit deep. It sent an absolute rush through Viktor's body before... Wait. Viktor's eyes widened and his body went cold as he felt the teeth pierce his skin and keep going. The pleasure erupted into pain and he couldn't even get a word out before he was screaming. The Hexcore started to pull back and there was an ugly crunching noise, followed by the sound of skin tearing. There was nothing but horrifying, disgusting pain before his body numbed almost instantly. Likely from shock. His shoulder became completely wet and the stinging was too much. It was too much. It was too much! Viktor's throat felt scratchy from how loud his scream was. As the final strand of flesh snapped, Viktor woke up.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The gasp that Viktor let out when he woke up was strangled with fear, but it was so much quieter than he would've expected from himself. Especially for having a chunk of his shoulder- Viktor's hand immediately raised to it, settling his shaky fingers on the skin. It was still there. Viktor could only stare forward for a moment, giving a shaky exhale. It was brighter in the office now and he glanced down. Jinx was still asleep, curled up against his side and hugging one of his arms like a pillow. Viktor glanced up at the small scratching noises from the desk. They came to a halt as he tiredly met Silco's gaze. "Viktor, you know you can't be going around on your late night rendezvous now that you're solid. It's dangerous." Viktor glanced over before replying that he was still here. Silco rolled his eyes and placed his pen down. "Marcus said he's already informed you of the bad news." "A Councilor, Silco." His voice broke a little and he saw Silco give a small sigh. "Was he not untouchable enough as it was?" Silco murmured that he knew and it was quite unfortunate. "There is going to be a warrant for my capture. He has convinced the Council that I am malicious." His voice shook a little. "I-I am not malicious." Silco murmured again that he knew. It was quiet. Three seconds of silence. The scratching of the pen started back up. Three minutes of silence. "...I think I should return to him." The scratching stopped abruptly and Silco spoke in a sharp tone, saying that wouldn't be wise. "Why not? I've no idea how he would hurt the people of Zaun to get to me." Viktor glanced up at him. "If I am the one to kill him, they cannot blame the rest of you, surely." Silco was so very displeased by this idea and Viktor could see it on every inch of his face. Viktor reached down and, very gently, untangled Jinx's arms from his own. He got up and turned, laying her down against the couch. He pulled both braids up before laying the blanket over her. He watched her with warm eyes as he gave a quiet sigh. "She looks up to you as she does to me." Silco's voice was quiet and Viktor glanced over at him doubtfully, stating that Jinx hadn't even seen him for the first several years they were together. "Viktor. You know this to be true." Silco's tone was somewhat scolding. He gestured to Jinx. "She is just as much your daughter as she is mine. Felicia... would've been so proud." The words sent such a heavy, painful warmth through Viktor's chest that it brought tears to his eyes. "Mm, maybe not about the crying." "Quiet." Viktor muttered, hearing Silco chuckle. He reached up and wiped his eyes. "Silco, I must. You want a free Zaun, as do I, but I must ensure this man will not try to destroy it before that can happen." He sighed, reaching out and pulling the cane over with a quiet sigh. "If I head to the bridge, the officers will surely bring me back to him. I can go without struggle." He paused as Silco stood up from his chair, moving around his desk. He moved over to Viktor, looking him over with a furrowed brow. "...This displeases you, I know. And I hate feeling as if I am, uh, a-abandoning you all." Viktor choked up again, but quickly composed himself. He startled as Silco moved forward and arms wrapped around him. He still smelled of Shimmer and cigar smoke. Viktor was stunned silent by the display before accepting it, wrapping his arms back around the other. Silco rubbed his back quietly. "You never hardened your heart, Viktor. You're as stubborn as can be."
"...And it is unlike you to show affection. Received a bad batch of Shimmer?" Viktor could only joke in his weakest voice. Silco gave a quiet scoff and Viktor didn't even have to look to sense the eye roll. Silco finally pulled away, looking him over before glancing down at Jinx. Viktor followed his gaze. "I have no doubt she will come to see me. You, however..." Viktor paused. There was... a lingering feeling of pain and dread in the back of his mind as Silco replied that there wouldn't be any possible way for him to come see him. "...Then perhaps at a later time?" Even saying it, Viktor felt his chest twist. He didn't... believe it. No, that feeling of dread had started to eat away at his chest and he knew his expression had become troubled.
"You feel it too." Silco spoke quietly and Viktor glanced up at him. He held his hand out and Viktor paused before taking it. "Viktor, I think you know as well as I, that this may be quite possibly the last we ever see of each other." Viktor felt that lump rise in his throat and his hand tightened on Silco's as his gaze lowered to the ground. "Perhaps not the last of Sevika and certainly not the last of Jinx, but I... fear our paths diverge here." Viktor stared at the ground before whispering that he felt he was correct. It did hurt him to admit it. "Now, if you are to head back to Piltover, I insist you wear something better than... that." Viktor glanced up at him before scoffing and reminding Silco that he'd bought these clothes. "Yes, and I no longer like them. Follow me, please." Viktor let go of his hand and rolled his eyes as he watched Silco move past him. "If you return well-dressed and well-groomed, it will reflect better upon us." Ah. What an excuse. A smile tugged at Viktor's lips as he followed along behind him.
Silco led him out of the office and down the hallways. He opened the door to his bedroom, holding it open for Viktor before moving inside. Instantly, Silco moved to his closet and Viktor blinked, saying he didn't wish to take any of Silco's clothes. "Nonsense. My clothes would look best." Viktor fought the urge to roll his eyes again. His eyes fell to the bed and he scoffed in surprise. Silco had actually slept?? What a shock. His eyes trailed over to the bathroom and he scrunched up his shoulders just a little, remembering how it had been stained blue with his blood. How Silco had forgiven it so easily was beyond him. He could the other rummaging around his closet. "Are the clothes I am wearing truly not sufficient? He... will likely lock me away again."
"I will not have you locked away in tacky fabrics." Silco's firm tone amused him. He tipped his head as Silco brought out a dark green collared shirt. Ah, Zaun's colors. It had one quarter-sleeve and one long sleeve, like the other shirt. He had a gold-trimmed brown vest with a corset backing. The pants were black and form-fitting with dark red stitching. The fabric was high-quality and Viktor blinked in surprise as Silco provided a satin, dark red tie. He exclaimed that this was far too much and Silco waved his hand dismissively. "Let you walk out of Zaun with your head high. Not to mention you can finally dress your age."
He folded up the clothes before handing them over to him. Viktor held them against his chest before glancing up at him uncertainly. Silco's eye weakened just a little. "Go on." He shooed him towards the bathroom and Viktor managed a quiet laugh. He was admittedly overwhelmed. No matter what Silco said, he felt like he was abandoning them.
Once he got himself dressed, he looked at himself in the mirror. His braid was a mess and he sighed before carefully undoing it. He allowed his hair to dangle freely around his head before combing it into place. He carefully put it back up in a small ponytail. The tie was the last part and his fingers shook as it did it up, finally tucking it inside his vest. He could only stare. It... It looked far too nice for someone like him. His eyes trailed down. He... was going to have to explain that to Silco. His gold-cracked arm was on full display, being the unfortunate result of the quarter-sleeve. The skin around it had tinted a vague lavender. He tipped his head and gave a small sigh. he smoothed his hand over his hair again before turning to the door.
Three seconds of hesitation. Three taps of his cane. He finally opened the door and moved back out. Silco stood with his arms crossed. He looked like he was deep in thought, his face clearly troubled. He paused as Viktor tapped his cane again, glancing up. A vague smile pulled at his lips as he scanned him over before it disappeared the moment it landed on his arm. Instantly, his body froze up and he was walking over to him in an instant, holding out his hand. "This followed me from my spectral form. None of you have ever seen it. I kept it... covered." Viktor gave a quiet sigh. "It was a result of the Bindings. There was nothing to be done." He added the last part quickly, knowing Silco's mind would've already started racing. Silco's fingers settled on the cracks. He glanced up and Viktor met his gaze for a moment. His gaze averted and he let out a small sigh. "Tr-Truly, there was nothing to be done." He promised in a quiet tone. Silco looked like he wanted to say something else before nodding and releasing his arm.
"Viktor." Silco's voice was forcibly calm and serious, but... Viktor could hear that shake. It broke his heart. "You have been good company. Thank you for being a friend to me." Viktor stared at him quietly and his shoulders sank. Silco managed a small smile of his own. "Despite your stubbornness and your unwillingness to provide me help with my business-" Viktor rolled his eyes and turned away, shooing his hand at him in playful annoyance. Silco's voice became amused. "I've enjoyed having you around. And I greatly appreciate your help with Jinx." Viktor was slightly overwhelmed again. This felt so finite. Was this really the last they'd see of each other? Silco seemed to believe so. And, deep down, Viktor believed it too.
He paused and glanced up. "Ah, I forgot to mention something. I encountered a woman on my walk. She was looking for Jinx." Silco paused before asking if she had pink hair. Viktor shook his head. "Dark blue. Her knuckles were unblemished and she was from Piltover." Silco furrowed his brow, asking why he hadn't mentioned it. "Silco, there were many things on my mind, I apologize. I became anxious. Distracted." He gave a quiet sigh. Silco seemed to forgive it.
"Marcus informed me that girl is traveling with a rogue Enforcer. The daughter of Councilor Kiramman." Silco stated. Viktor froze up. That was where he knew her from. Through Jayce. Years ago, when they'd temporarily stayed at the Kirammans. That had been... Sprout? She'd grown quite a bit. Viktor's heart felt heavy. "She did not harm you?" Viktor shook his head, saying she was quite polite and had simply asked him questions, to which he had given no real answers. "And the woman was not with her?" Viktor replied that Caitlyn had told him her so-called guide had ditched her. Silco furrowed his brow. "That means she is running freely." He sounded troubled by this. "At least she would've been forced into a lesser pace by traveling with someone unfamiliar with the area." Viktor replied he would've led her back if he'd known. "No, no. I would rather you not risk your safety." Silco looked him over. "But... I suppose you are about to do so now."
"Please do let Jinx know to not come try to find me until tomorrow. With how quickly you have arrived to fetch me before, I have no doubt there is some kind of contingency in place." Viktor's hands slightly tightened on his cane. "...She is going to be very upset."
"I'll take the brunt of it. You are doing this to protect the rest of us." He sounded so sure and Viktor glanced up at him. He scanned him over before asking what else Marcus had told him. "Pardon?"
"You have that look. I know it well, Silco. You are keeping something from me." Viktor said, keeping his voice calm and gentle. Silco was quiet for a moment before scoffing and shaking his head.
"Truly nothing gets past you, does it, Viktor?" Silco asked quietly, a faint teasing tone accompanying his words. "The warrant has... already been issued. There is a time limit. If you were not found within two weeks... they would have closed the vents." Viktor felt his body go cold. How had Jayce convinced the Council of that?? Good gods. His hands slightly shook and he finally replied it was good they wouldn't have to wait. He paused and glanced up at Silco.
"If I had not decided to go now, would you have told me of this?" Viktor asked, his brow furrowed. "You wouldn't have risked Zaun for a friend...?" Silco replied that he would've told him, but there was a hesitation to his voice. Like he wasn't certain. Viktor wanted to scold him to death, but he wouldn't. He glanced over at the door and Silco nodded towards it, saying he would escort him out. That Sevika should've been back from her patrol and she would take him to the bridge. Viktor nodded, the taps of his cane soft as he followed Silco. He did cast one more glance at the office as they passed it in the hallway. Silco led him down the stairs just as they heard the slam of a door. Sevika shook herself off, a light snow falling from her cloak. She was muttering to herself, but it stopped abruptly as she saw them.
It was quiet for a few moments. "...You aren't." She sounded in disbelief and Viktor glanced away before replying that he was in a strangled voice. Sevika's shoulders sank as she scanned him over. "...At least you clean up nice, bookworm." She glanced at Silco.
"I've said my goodbyes. Please take him to the bridge." Silco's hands were tight behind his back and Viktor reached out, gently touching his arm.
"Thank you for your company, Silco." He put all his genuineness into his voice. Something painful, yet appreciative flashed through the other's eyes and he gave a small bow. Viktor turned away and moved over to Sevika, who'd taken down his cloak and handed it to him. Viktor slipped it on, his chest aching as Sevika warned him that it was snowing. He murmured that he didn't mind. "I've always liked the snow."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The snow itself was soft and Viktor could feel it landing in his hair whenever they passed under the openings in the fissures. A snowflake landed on his nose and he crinkled it a little. "You sure you don't want to pull up your hood?" Sevika asked, glancing back at him. Viktor shook his head, murmuring that he wanted to enjoy it before he couldn't. Sevika fell silent. "You're really sure about this, Viktor?" It was rare that Sevika called him by his actual name and Viktor glanced up. He replied that he was sure. Leading him to the bridge clearly upset her, but she wouldn't say anything. Viktor's eyes softened."I heavily doubt this is the last I will see of you, Sevika. If I am unsuccessful in my attempts on him, that is." Viktor sighed quietly and Sevika seemed surprised, glancing back and asking if he was actually going to try. "I... I am. At the very least, I hope I can bring myself to try. I am not one to hurt someone, but perhaps those violent thoughts will aid me. Perhaps they will... do something for me, other than take up space in my mind." Sevika didn't answer and Viktor stared at the back of her head. "Sevika.""What?" Her answer was curt and Viktor paused. He slowly came to a stop and he could see the moment Sevika realized she couldn't hear his footsteps. "Bookworm. Let's go." Her voice was firm and Viktor stared at her. She turned to glare at him from under her hood. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane again. He said her name in a softer voice and he saw her glare weaken before her eyes averted. Viktor finally spoke again, saying he wasn't abandoning them. That this was the last place he'd ever want to go. "Then why the hell are you going??""The Council has threatened the people of Zaun. I must return or they are to do something drastic. I... I really... I really do not wish to leave you." Viktor's voice became strangled. "The last place I want to be is by his side again, but he has forced my hand." Sevika's anger seemed to fade the longer he spoke. Finally, her shoulders seemed to sink. She turned to him. Three steps forward. Viktor stared up at her quietly. "I cannot thank you enough for your protection. And your friendship." Sevika snorted, saying he could call it that if he wanted. A smile tugged at Viktor's lips. "I believe it is a good word for it, no?" His voice was earnest. Sevika crossed her arms, but her hand was tight on her prosthetic. "And I do think we will see each other again.""...Don't sound so hopeful. I might start believing it." Sevika's voice was quiet as she stared down at him, having relaxed. She turned her head to the side and gave a shrug as she rolled her eyes. "...I guess you were worth spending time with. Even if you were a shitty card player." Viktor raised a brow before replying that she'd lost to him more times than he could count. Sevika scoffed at him, saying she didn't remember that in a flat tone. Viktor paused before giving a quiet laugh, his breath coming out in a soft cloud. He saw a smile twitch at her lips. She finally held out a hand and Viktor blinked in surprise before reaching out and taking it. Her metal claws curled around his hand, but he held no fear of it. "I hope you manage to put that kindness on the shelf. Just for a bit. Just for this." Viktor stared up at her before replying that he would try. He really was uncertain about it. And he knew Sevika would be able to tell that he was anxious. He jumped as her other hand stretched up and she ruffled his hair, dislodging the snow that had gathered in it. "You should really put your hood up.""I'm fine, thank you." Viktor replied before squirming as Sevika grabbed his hood and pulled it over his head. It appeared it hadn't been a suggestion. "Hey!" He reached up before scoffing as she flicked his hand. "Ugh..." He let out a dramatic groan as he rolled his eyes. Sevika stated that that was better in a slightly smug tone. Viktor lightly smacked her ankle with his cane, making her jump."Bold of you!" She commented. Viktor raised a brow. "I've thrown people through walls for less. You know I could snap you like a stick." Viktor replied that she would've done it already if she'd wanted to. That she didn't tolerate irritations. Sevika chuckled before she nodded her head behind her and Viktor moved up to her side. The snow was barely coating the ground. Viktor's chest ached. Sevika continued to walk with him. Viktor had to keep his head up. No matter how much his heart hurt, he couldn't let it show. When they finally reached the block before the bridge, Sevika came to a stop. "This is where I gotta break off, bookworm. You know Enforcers aren't too fond of me." Viktor nodded, though he could tell his anxiousness showed on his face again. "This was your choice." He replied that he knew. He moved ahead of her. Three steps forward. He stopped and stared at the ground before turning to look back at her."I hope to see you again. Goodbye, Sevika." Viktor kept his voice from shaking and he knew Sevika could tell. Her eyes had weakened and he could tell from the twitch of her lip that this was upsetting for her. She finally moved forward and Viktor's eyes widened as she wrapped an arm around him. She had him in a one-armed hug and Viktor paused before reaching up and hugging her back with one arm as well. She pulled away and the look on her face was still saddened, but it also screamed that she would knock him out without hesitation if he ever mentioned anything about this again. She turned away without another word and Viktor watched as she trudged back down the street.Viktor had to muster up his courage and he took a soft breath, letting it out in that billowing cloud. He finally turned away and moved around the corner of the building he was behind. He approached the bridge and one of the two Enforcers guarding it started to approach him the closer he got. Once they stopped him, he reached up and pulled back his hood. "I... believe there is a warrant that has been issued for me." He said in a quiet voice. The Enforcer instantly startled at this. She sounded dumbfounded behind her mask as she asked if he was really just going to go. "Yes, ma'am. I will not fight you." The Enforcer unhooked the cuffs from her belt and Viktor hesitated. "I am unable to walk without my cane. Could I just follow?" He was hesitant to ask and the Enforcer paused before a heavy sigh left her. She stated that he was to remain close. She hooked the cuffs back on her belt and informed him that she would have to check him for weapons. "Of course."Viktor stood still as the Enforcer circled him, patting him down carefully. Once she seemed satisfied, she pulled away before beckoning for him to follow her. Viktor nodded. He wanted to be as calm and compliant as possible. The cuffs had slightly put him off, as he thought Marcus had said the warrant was not for arrest.Walking over the bridge, he couldn't help but glance in the direction of his grave. He couldn't see it from here and he especially wouldn't be able to see it through the snow as they emerged from the entrance of the cave. The snowfall became much heavier and Viktor pulled his hood back up. "I'll be taking you to the Zaun outpost. There, you will meet with the Sheriff." The Enforcer informed him, seeming to glance back. He couldn't exactly tell with her mask. Viktor nodded, saying he understood. She seemed to stare at him a moment longer. "...We were told you were dangerous." She sounded slightly confused, yet wary."It may have been to increase the urgency to find me. I... wouldn't even consider myself a problem, let alone a threat." Viktor admitted, giving a quiet shrug. The Enforcer was quiet before she nodded and turned forward once more. They walked in silence, Viktor finally stepping off the bridge into Piltover once more. The Enforcer took an immediate left and Viktor could see the outpost building appear through the snow. The Enforcer soon opened the door and Viktor paused before moving inside once he realized she was expecting him to go first. Inside, there was chatter that quickly died down. Viktor reached up, pulling his hood back. It seemed like Marcus was addressing the Enforcers stationed at the outpost, but he paused as they all seemed to fall quiet. He turned and he seemed stunned for a moment as he saw Viktor. The Enforcer stood next to him before gesturing, prompting him to speak. "Greetings, Sheriff. I have come to turn myself in." Marcus still didn't answer and Viktor raised his brows, not wanting the other to get himself in trouble. That seemed to spur Marcus into action, him clearing his throat and turning to face Viktor, standing at attention."If you would follow me, sir, I must place you in holding for now. I will send for the Councilors who issued your warrant and they will decide what to do with you." Marcus stated. Viktor nodded, saying he understood. He didn't. Wasn't this arrest? He knew one Councilor had to be Jayce and he was very sure the other one was Mel. Marcus turned and Viktor's cane gave soft taps against the floor as he followed him. The other Enforcers were watching him in fascination, like he was some kind of rare animal they were seeing for the first time. It made Viktor slightly wrinkle his nose in displeasure. He followed Marcus down a set of stairs before arriving in a hallway with two cell doors. Marcus unlocked one before holding it open. Viktor moved inside and Marcus shut the door. However, he hesitated on locking it, finally glancing up and meeting Viktor's gaze with his own concerned and confused one."...I know what happens if he cannot find me, Marcus. I don't want anyone hurt because of me." Viktor turned and made his way to the stiff-looking wooden bench. He settled himself down, leaning on his cane as he heard Marcus finally lock the cell door. He glanced up and thanked him quietly. Marcus stared at him a moment longer before sighing and dipping his head. He turned and Viktor watched as he walked away, his footsteps soon heard disappearing up the stairs. Viktor could see light shining in through the smallest window above him. He could see the snow falling from the cloudy grey sky. He wasn't sure if Jayce was going to make it here in snow like this. Didn't the other still fear it?? Viktor turned to look forward again before lifting his arm. He was... cold. He hadn't quite processed it before, but his hands were literally shaking. This cloak wasn't a heavy one. It protected him from the snow, but not the frigid temperature that accompanied it. He set his cane to the side before stretching his shaking hands up to his neck. He could barely feel his fingers. He pressed both his hands on either side of his neck and squeezed his eyes shut. Good gods, they were freezing. Had he just been so nervous and distracted that he hadn't realized?? His heart was still pounding. He forced himself to relax and started to carefully mitigate his breathing. His shoulders sank. He was really doing this, wasn't he? Viktor wasn't even sure if he could. At the very least, one of them was going to end up dead. It would be a mercy at this point if it were him. But he... didn't want it to be him. Not yet. Not until Jayce's blood was spilling across the floor. Not until Viktor could see his body splayed out in front of him with his very eyes. He was trying his hardest not to reject the thoughts, knowing he would need them if he were to follow through on this. Viktor... would have to be good at pretending. He knew what Jayce liked from him. He knew what Jayce wanted from him as well. At the very least, he could use it to his advantage. His hands trembled against the sides of his neck, but he wasn't even sure it was from the cold anymore. No, he was... He was so nervous that he felt sick. He was frightened and he was nervous. But he couldn't doubt himself. He couldn't let the fear derail him. Not now. He was already too far in. He was already sitting in the cell, knowing that he was going to see Jayce's face appear from those steps. Maybe not now, with the snow outside, but... eventually. He finally pulled his hands away from his neck and stared at them quietly. Were these hands able to handle the weight of someone else's blood? Viktor really wasn't sure. He was... He was trembling all over and his heart was pounding. Finally, Viktor let out a shaking breath and buried his face in his hands. He just wanted to go back to Zaun. Back to Sevika and Silco and Jinx. But he... knew the consequences. He knew what the stakes were. He just wished Jayce hadn't raised them so high. And for what? To get his doll back? He was like a child who'd lost their toy. Viktor's shoulders remained sunken. There was a burning in his chest, but he wasn't quite able to distinguish what it was. He pulled his hands back, resting them palms up in his lap. Could he do it? Could he really draw blood? Paint bruises? Could he gouge his fucking eyes out? Viktor squeezed his own shut at the sudden thought, wrinkling his nose as he tried not to be sick. He wasn't sure how long he was sitting there before he heard footsteps. Three pairs. Viktor sighed and reached out, pulling his cane in front of him and sitting proper. Marcus appeared first and Viktor had to physically stop himself from tensing up as Mel appeared next, clad in a white, fur cloak that seemed flecked with gold. She looked him over with an unreadable expression and Viktor waited as he heard that last set approaching. When the other finally appeared, Viktor paused. He glanced up, meeting Jayce's wide, golden-brown eyes. The other seemed to be scanning his outfit over and Viktor scrunched his shoulders up, hesitantly pulling his cloak shut. Jayce's eyes met his and Viktor averted them before speaking in a quiet voice. "...I'm back, Jayce."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Mel's voice cut through the air like a knife. "Councilor Talis. Address him by his proper title." She said firmly. Viktor paused and gave a small nod. Jayce was in his white, red, and gold suit. However, he wore a fur-collared coat that seemed to have been provided by Mel. To see them in matching clothes caused a... a tightness in Viktor's chest. A lump in his throat that he swallowed back. "Right... Councilor." He managed after a moment. Jayce looked him over. He'd really come here in the snow?? Viktor thought he hated it. Feared it. Had his fear improved? He paused as Jayce finally spoke, his gaze sharp on him. "I hear that you turned yourself in. I hope that means you're finished playing with your shiny new toy." Jayce's voice was cold as he gestured to him. "It is to be returned to me, but you will have to be kept until we find out how to remove you from it. The Council wants to convict you for high-grade thievery. I hope your... excursion was worth it." Jayce sounded so professional. So scolding. Viktor could only stare for a moment. He'd never wanted to bash someone's head in with a brick so badly. To even imply that Viktor had willingly possessed this body. To even imply that he'd stolen it. And to speak to him in such a manner when he'd been the one to do this to him. Viktor's jaw ever so slightly clenched and his nails dug into his cane. And to convict him?? A dead man on trial! Hah! Viktor almost wanted to laugh. He couldn't be serious. Heimerdinger would never allow something so ridiculous.Besides, what punishment could they possibly give him that would be anywhere as effective as death? Even then, that would be his mercy. A damn gift. "And just where am I to be placed, Councilor?" The way he controlled his voice should've won him every award in theater. Jayce seemed slightly taken back by this, but he managed to compose himself in an instant. "You will be held in my lab. I will be taking you there myself, along with Sheriff Marcus." Jayce answered. Viktor nodded, turning to look forward again before giving a quiet sigh. He was trembling again, but it was no longer from fear. He commented in a quiet voice that he hadn't expected Jayce to make the journey here in the snow. He heard the other pause. "...The snowfall is not that heavy. I appreciate the concern. Sheriff, if you would." Viktor heard the jingling of keys and the loud clang of the cell door as it was opened up. He pushed himself to his feet, keeping his face calm and his eyes on the ground. He paused as he heard Jayce speaking to Mel in a tender tone. "Thank you for accompanying me. I'll see you tomorrow at the theater." He promised gently. Mel smiled, her hand placed teasingly under his chin as she lightly told him not to be late. Viktor watched as she moved away, soon disappearing up the stairs. He inhaled softly before his eyes drifted back to the floor. "You'll be cuffed and we will guide you." Cuffed?? Marcus had said this wasn't an arrest, but this was! This very much was! He glanced over as Marcus took out some cuffs. He moved over to Viktor. Once his back was to Jayce, Marcus couldn't seem to meet Viktor's eyes as he mouthed that he was sorry. He took Viktor's cane. Viktor fought the urge to flinch as he felt his wrists be locked together in front of him. "Hold onto me, please." Marcus instructed out loud. He turned and Viktor paused before awkwardly holding onto his offered arm. Marcus nodded to Jayce, who had been staring at them quietly. "Please lead the way, Councilor." Jayce turned and Marcus followed with Viktor, moving back up the stairs and across the main room. They all emerged back out onto the snow covered street, Jayce pulling a fur-lined hood up over his head. Marcus pulled Viktor's hood up for him, though he seemed to take note that the cloak Viktor was wearing was nowhere near thick enough for this kind of weather. The swirling snow felt heavier now. Much more... constrictive. It felt like it was tunneling his vision around him. It was no longer nice, but overwhelming. Viktor couldn't even look at it, his eyes staring forward blankly. Slowly, but surely, the Academy building came into view. It was something familiar, yet Viktor could only feel threatened. He wished he could see this building again with joy and nostalgia, but he couldn't. This was going to be his prison. His eyes fixed on Jayce and he couldn't help but be morbidly curious. He really seemed as if he was fine in this snow. Had he really improved so much? He led them up the steps of the Academy and Viktor froze as they moved inside. The students in the halls immediately began to whisper, watching him with wide eyes. There was no way he was... Viktor grit his teeth. There were much quicker ways to the labs, but it seemed Jayce was purposely choosing the longest one. Why?? To parade him? Show him off like some kind of prize?? What a bastard. They reached the lab door and Jayce unlocked it. Viktor was led inside by Marcus and his eyes roamed over the lab. It almost looked as he remembered, just... less destroyed. Everything had been cleaned up and there was... Viktor paused. The false window had been replaced with a real one, yet there was a decorative metal grate covering the outside. Bars. The wall looked as if it had been renovated to jut out and contain a window seat, where there were pillows and a folded blanket. He was really going to be sleeping here? Viktor paused as Marcus carefully unlocked him from the cuffs. He rubbed his wrists, thanking Marcus quietly. He still couldn't meet his eyes and he gave a quiet sigh. "Will that be all, Councilor?" Marcus asked, clipping the cuffs back to his belt. Jayce nodded, slipping off the coat. He thanked Marcus for his help before dismissing him. Marcus glanced at Viktor one last time before turning away. When the door shut, Viktor had a feeling that was the last he would see of that hallway for a long while. "...Viktor." Jayce's voice had softened and Viktor wouldn't even look at him. Instead, he moved forward into the small windowed area, reaching out and rubbing his knuckles across the blanket. It was soft. He glanced up. Through the grate, he could see the city stretched out in front of him. It was a nice view. He hesitated before carefully lifting his leg onto the cushioned window seat. He slowly sat down, his body trembling. His cane was leaned off to the side now as he undid his cloak, dropping it halfheartedly to the floor. He paused as he heard that soft warbling creep into his head. Those voices... That voice seemed to hiss directly into his mind.
Welcome back.
Viktor glanced back at where the Hexcore spun on the desk. It had changed. All of its Runes had been swallowed in an inky black, spiky sphere. It had large holes all over, similar to the webbing he'd once sported. It gave off an ominous purple glow now. Viktor's hands were clasped in his lap, but he politely informed the Hexcore to get the hell out of his head for right now. He heard it let out its amused, chilling laugh before its presence retreated from his mind. "Viktor." Jayce's voice pierced into his wavering focus and Viktor finally turned to face him. Jayce had slipped off his suit jacket, leaving him in the white and grey vest and that red tie. His eyes had softened from the coldness he'd displayed earlier. "You came back. On your own." There... was something confusing in his voice. He sounded awed, but also... Viktor could feel the veiled disappointment so potently that it almost lingered on his tongue. Had Jayce not wanted him back? Or... had Jayce been hoping to go find him himself? Had Viktor just ruined his hunt? Viktor replied that he had, though he purposely... softened his voice. Jayce paused, staring at him. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose before turning to the window again, his eyes tiredly moving over it. He heard him. Three steps forward. Uncertain. Confused. "You are upset with me, right?" Jayce sounded genuinely baffled and Viktor replied that he was. That he was more than upset with him. Jayce sounded like he'd wanted to make sure and it only made his skin crawl. Had Jayce... been trying to upset him on purpose?? The thought... made him... "You told them I stole this. You told them I possessed this body willingly." Viktor stated, his voice taking on a tremor. Jayce seemed to scramble for words, immediately saying that it had been the easiest way for the Council to agree to the warrant. "Oh, of course." Viktor stated in mocking understanding. "Surely that must've been the only way." He... had to keep up a simple, upset tone. Not anger. No sign of anger. He had to control himself. No matter what thoughts the Binds were pushing into his head. The thoughts made his hands twitch with a malicious eagerness. Somehow, all the thoughts felt so amplified here. Was it because of his proximity to the Hexcore?? He froze up as he felt Jayce's hands take him by the arms. His touch was gentle and he turned Viktor to face him. Viktor paused. Jayce looked... so fucking guilty. Good gods, he'd never seen that emotion on him. And it had also been so long that he forgot how quickly Jayce's emotions switched. How fast he could jump from one to the other, leaving no signs of the one before. He startled as Jayce suddenly pulled him into a tight hug, his arms trembling. Viktor was wide-eyed. Jayce... was so good at pretending. He had really just put on that whole show. That whole display. Viktor's heart was racing. Not out of fear. He was so angry, he felt like he was going to hurl. "You threatened the people of Zaun to make me come back. You abused your power the moment you could." Jayce replied that it was the only way and Viktor had to bite back every single nasty thing he wanted to tell him with the strength of several men. "I never would've found you. I knew if you heard that, you'd at least come out of hiding and I could come find you. I didn't think you would... come to me." Jayce sounded slightly baffled as he pulled back, his hands engulfing Viktor's shoulders. He scanned him over. "...Who gave you these clothes? You're... dressed so nicely. It... looks so good on you..." He sounded like he was trying so hard to compliment him and Viktor replied that it wasn't important. Jayce's eyes immediately flicked up to his, clearly displeased by this answer, though he didn't seem like he was going to press further. He continued to stare and he finally spoke in a strangled voice. "Viktor, I'm sorry. I'm sorry." He buried his face against his shoulder and Viktor froze up again. He didn't believe that for a second. "Viktor, please." Desperation was starting to creep into his voice, but Viktor couldn't trust a single thing he did. A single word he said. He couldn't trust anything about him. "I want to lay down, Jayce. Let go of me." Viktor put a hand on his chest and he felt Jayce completely stiffen up, staring at him like a kicked dog as he was pushed back. He... really wasn't grasping how absolutely heartless he had been in order to get Viktor back. How absolutely horrifying and disgustingly inhumane his plan had been. Viktor could only stare back at him before he turned away. He laid himself down on the cushioned seat and kept his back to Jayce as he rested his head on the pillow, pulling the blanket over himself. "Y-You're really going to sleep in that? Viktor, at least-" Jayce was heard flinching as Viktor interrupted, saying he didn't mind it. The clothes were comforting. His remnant of a decent life and good company. He heard Jayce give a defeated sigh before he heard him turn and move away. How could he act so casually? Suddenly nothing was wrong? Everything was okay again? How could... Jayce be so... evil?? He felt that warbling creeping back into his mind, but he didn't snap at the Hexcore this time. He heard that voice in his head, all of the voices crowing at once.
He's a fascinating thing, isn't he? Such indifference, yet he gets so anxious when it comes to you. Isn't it pathetic?
Viktor paused as the Hexcore spoke in subtle amusement. He thought back that it seemed pretty entertained by all this. That it seemed pretty entertained by Jayce and his fucked up mind.
Oh, I am. I very much am. What a character he is. Thinking every idea he has is the pinnacle of genius. They're awful, truly. He really was convinced that was the best method of luring you back. I even told him it was ridiculous. I told him it was idiotic and far too messy, yet he didn't listen.
Viktor's fingers scraped against the fabric of the cushion beneath him. Of course he hadn't. Jayce also hadn't mentioned anything about the Runes on his body. What would he do if he found Viktor had disfigured the Desire Rune? He kept the blanket pulled slightly over his head. Jayce had made no mention of even putting one there in the first place, let alone why. No explanation for the Runes he'd put on Viktor's lower body and no explanation for the extra Binding Rune on his chest. He asked in his head what Jayce was doing right then.
He is watching you from his chair. I believe he is waiting for you to sleep so he can study you. He looks incredibly displeased. Deep in thought. I think you've confused him by not showing your anger.
Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose again. He wasn't tired at all, so Jayce was going to be waiting for quite a while. He couldn't believe he was back here again. He couldn't believe how many times he'd thought he was free, only to end up right back in Jayce's hands. His fingers dragged slightly against the cushion beneath him. He was watching him? He didn't deserve to. He didn't deserve eyes. He should lose his eyes. Viktor should remove his eyes. He could do it. It wouldn't take much. It wouldn't take much. Take his damn eyes out. Take them out. The thoughts were feverish and rabid as they swirled around his head. He paused as he heard the Hexcore give a small scoff.
Those Runes seem to be working as anticipated, hm? I bet it would please him to hear you say those things aloud. Just so he can hear them. Just to know it's working.
Right. Because Jayce had put the Runes on him on purpose. Why?? So he'd be like him? Viktor's heart was racing in anger again. He had to calm down. He exhaled softly before asking in his mind why the Hexcore was only speaking to him.
He annoyed me earlier. Kept pestering me to tell him what you were feeling. It's already rare I answer him when he asks that, so I don't know why he thought being irritating would help.
The Hexcore sounded flippant and Viktor was quiet. He finally asked in his head why the Hexcore always answered him when he asked.
Your sacrifice was more than sufficient, even if you weren't the one to provide it. Your bones were stale, but you, yourself have flavor. Without that hint of rot beneath. I quite enjoy your taste.
Viktor furrowed his brow before asking hesitantly in his head if it was... eating him. Its answer only confused him, the tone being playfully avoidant.
No, not quite.
Despite his lack of understanding, it was clear that the Hexcore was not going to elaborate. Viktor paused before asking if it had ever lied to him. The question seemed to surprise it.
I see no need to. You aren't as fun to mess with as he is when it comes to something like that.
So the Hexcore liked to lie to Jayce for fun? Good gods, he could only imagine the things it had told him. Viktor commented that it had quite a lot of personality.
I mixed the ones I know. However, I've found it much more pleasing to view the world through an entertained, analytical eye. Like I am viewing a play. And you two are the leading roles.
Viktor's shoulders sank and he finally spoke in a quiet whisper, his voice strangled. "...How fun."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Even with the sense of unease Viktor felt from having the Hexcore occupy his mind, he felt much more at ease with it than he did with Jayce. Of course, the bar was in hell for that one, but still. Viktor continued to have a conversation with it in his head. He remained laid down and the Hexcore would interrupt him or itself to let him know when Jayce would get up from his chair. Every time, Viktor would give a more than obvious shuffle to dissuade him from approaching. He heard the Hexcore give that haunting laugh.
He's becoming quite impatient. Curious that he won't just grab you and look you over.
Viktor replied internally that Jayce wouldn't. Jayce wouldn't dare lay hands on him right now. Especially without his permission. The Hexcore hummed curiously.
Even with the thoughts I sense in his mind, he still won't touch unless you say it is okay to do so?
It sounded slightly perplexed by this.
With his partners, he never asks, and they seem to like whatever he does just fine.
Viktor replied that he was not one of Jayce's partners. And with how Jayce had practically ruined his life, he would never allow the other to just lay hands on him again. While he was... surprised that Jayce wouldn't touch him without permission, he felt relief. With how violent Jayce's urges were and despite the things he said he wanted to do to him... it felt like the universe was letting him have one small victory by having someone as twisted as Jayce care about something like that. He gave a small sigh through his nose. The Hexcore was silent for a moment before it spoke again.
He is a strange individual. I want to explore him further, but he has only given me a drop of blood. Nothing like you have given me. He is fascinating. Spicy like cinnamon. I only wish he did not have such a rotten aftertaste.
Viktor was momentarily surprised before asking in his head if the Hexcore had cinnamon before.
Jayce feeds me lots of things. I am quite partial to meat, but peppers and berries intrigue me as well. Sweet things bother me if I have one too many. I've electrocuted him twice for trying to give me too much.
Viktor was quiet for another moment or two. Maybe three. He asked why the Hexcore described them as tastes.
It feels fitting. Especially since I have consumed pieces of each of you. However, since I had a larger piece from you, our connection is stronger. I admit, you aren't as cold to me now as you were previously. Perhaps I am finally 'good company' as you say?
Viktor replied that it absolutely was not. The Hexcore gave another quiet bit of laughter. It seemed amused, but disbelieving. Viktor couldn't help but talk to it. It was the scientist in him. The curious part. This was an entity made up from something that was near inaccessible in their world. Something far beyond. And yet, it spoke like one of them. Reacted like one of them. Playful, fascinated, vaguely threatening. He finally opened his eyes again, not remembering when he'd closed them. Oh. Oh, it was... The window in front of him was dark. When had it become nighttime? Hadn't he been facing the window the whole time?? He furrowed his brow in confusion. He could see the Hexcore's reflection in the glass. He could also see... Jayce was still awake, his reflection vaguely seen moving around. Viktor... didn't feel tired at all. He wondered if that was the Hexcore's influence. He gave a small stretch. "...Viktor? Are you really still awake?" Jayce sounded vaguely taken back. "You've been laying there for hours, what happened to resting?" Was he annoyed? Like he had any right to be? Viktor paused before shuffling and pushing himself up, turning back to look at him. "Oh, my apologies! I wasn't aware I needed your approval." He said with false sincerity. Jayce instantly replied that wasn't what he meant. He asked if Viktor still went into dazes, even if he was alive again. "Does that bother you?" Jayce replied that the dazes had always made him uneasy. Like he was witnessing another person sleep with their eyes wide open. And he could never pinpoint the moment they'd wake up again. Jayce's eyes kept darting downwards before moving back up to his. Viktor could tell what he was looking at and he gave a sigh of annoyance through his nose. "Yes, I know. The webbing changed." He held up his gold-cracked arm frustratedly. "Gods, Jayce, just ask about it.""...It wasn't supposed to follow you to the body. The body is supposed to be like a shell. It should've kept the corruption in." Jayce stated, his brow furrowed. He sounded completely thrown, like there was no way his creation could have a flaw. "Does it hurt?" Viktor replied that it didn't. "Would you even tell me if it did?" Viktor furrowed his brow before asking why he would need to lie to him about that. Jayce stared at him, seeming to scan him over. To both Viktor's confusion and irritation, he didn't answer, only turning away. Viktor stared at him before narrowing his eyes. "And if the corruption consumed my body within the shell, what then?" He asked, his voice quiet, but scolding. Jayce paused and glanced back at him. "Did you take that into consideration or did you just assume your idea was perfect?" He heard the Hexcore laugh quietly in his head. It was still unsettling. Jayce replied that he took everything he could into consideration. "So what was the plan, Jayce? Enlighten me. Was I to shrivel away inside this shell? Don't tell me you actually would've had the common sense to let me go." He could tell the goading was working. Jayce hated having his intelligence and his ideas challenged like this. Jayce instantly turned back to him. "I would've moved you to something else. If I kept you in something softer, the corruption would have a harder time spreading." Jayce stated firmly. Viktor asked if that was so in a flat tone. "That's what I theorized! Unless you want to test it!" Viktor rolled his eyes, saying there was no way he could leave this body anytime soon with the amount of Binding Runes he'd put on him. "It was to anchor you inside! You would've been halfway out of the body every time you moved." Jayce was becoming more agitated at having his ingenuity questioned. The Hexcore only seemed more and more amused. "And what of the other ones??" Viktor demanded, his hand raising to his navel. "You truly thought these necessary??" Jayce instantly shut his mouth, his eyes wide. "They are carved into my skin, did you think I was blind??" Jayce stared at him before asking if he even knew what Runes those were. "Of course I do. If I could memorize the name of every bone in the human body, why would I not be able to identify some shapes? I studied that book you left in our room. I was top of my classes for a reason, Jayce. I do not let information go once I am finished with it." Viktor pushed himself to his feet, finally leaving the window seat. "Are you still so self-absorbed that you believed yourself to be the only one who could memorize Runes??" He took his cane. Three steps forward. "Even after all this time, you think so little of me?? Or has your own ego stomped out your consideration of anyone else??" "If you're so confident, what's the Rune I put into the back of your neck??" Jayce snapped back at him. Viktor wondered if this was supposed to shock him. If it was supposed to shut him up. Jayce had no such luck."It is destroyed, is what it is." Viktor replied, his voice hushed with slight scorn. That seemed to stun Jayce silent. "It used to be a Desire Rune. Now it is just another scar. I'm sure you felt quite proud of yourself for that one, didn't you?" He paused as Jayce spoke, asking what it had shown him. Was he serious right now?? "You think you deserve any kind of answer to any kind of question from me after what you've done? You are mad."Now anger was bleeding through his words. "All of this and now you have me again, but I hate you." Viktor spoke in a scathing voice. The words left his mouth like poison and burned in his throat. "Was it worth it?? You couldn't control yourself and now look what's happened. Did you think I would be impressed by your horrifying attempts to get me back?? That I would be impressed by your vile obsession?? Good gods, Jayce! Once upon a time... I was... excited to see you again..." He finally quieted down. His heart was pounding and his breathing was heavy. Jayce could only stare at him with wide eyes. Viktor's hands were tight on his cane and he squeezed his eyes shut, holding a hand to his head. He felt light-headed now. "Was it worth making me hate you?" He finally asked, his eyes fixed on the ground. He saw Jayce reach out and he took a step back. "Do not touch me. You lost that privilege long ago." "...I couldn't even touch you before." Jayce managed in a quiet, weakened voice. Viktor stared at him. "And now you never will." He replied, staring into his eyes. "I hope you are happy. May just my presence be enough. Because you will not get anything else from me." Viktor turned away, the taps of his cane erratic and irritated as he moved back to the window seat, taking a moment to sit back down. The Hexcore had retreated from his mind, albeit with quiet, layered giggles. Great. Viktor was glad it seemed so amused by this. He rolled his eyes in annoyance. He paused as he heard footsteps. "Jayce." He spoke his name with such scorn and warning that he heard him stop abruptly. "Why did you do that to the Rune?? What did it show you, Viktor??" Jayce didn't seem upset anymore, only curiosity in his voice again. Good gods, it pissed Viktor off. He pushed himself to his feet, shouldering his way past Jayce as he used his cane to move to the desk where the Hexcore was. It did a small spin upon seeing him. "Viktor??" Viktor sighed heavily. He reached out, his fingers snagging a pen from the desk. He began to click it softly. He just needed to be doing something with his hands. He needed something repetitive. The pen clicked softly and he closed his eyes, trying to calm himself. "Hey. Viktor-" Jayce's voice was close. Too close. Viktor's hand stiffened and he heard the creak of the desk as Jayce placed his hand on the table next to him. Do it. Viktor's eyes shot open and he stabbed the pen down into the desk with so much force that it splintered the wood. He'd just barely missed the skin holding together Jayce's pointer and middle finger. Three seconds of silence. He heard Jayce finally let out a shaky exhale as he pulled his hand back from the impaled pen. Viktor's heart was still racing, but he kept himself quiet. If he hadn't controlled himself at the last second, he was sure there would've been a much different outcome. He could hear Jayce. Three steps back. He turned to look back at him. Jayce's hand was trembling and his face was pale, but his ears were flushed pink as he stared at Viktor in shock. "I didn't mean to damage the desk. My apologies." Viktor said, his gaze averting to the side. Jayce replied that he wasn't worried about the desk. "Hm? Ah, I must've missed something else then." Viktor turned away from him. He sighed and used his cane to snag a stool. He sat down and rested his head against his hand as he watched the Hexcore give another spin. Something else moved and Viktor raised a brow. The pen was cracked and he watched as ink pooled around it, staining the wood black. He could feel the Hexcore creeping back into his mind. He asked what Jayce was doing now.
Standing and staring. Oh... ugh.
The Hexcore made a small noise of disgust and Viktor raised a brow. He paused as the Hexcore spoke again.
The cinnamon is gone. He tastes rotten.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The last thing Viktor expected while he was struggling against sleep was to hear Jayce speaking with the Hexcore. Well, less speaking and more arguing, it seemed. He had his back to them, staring out the window at the darkened sky. He wasn't sure what time it was, but he was certainly running out of steam. He blinked a few times, each one slower than the last. "I can see that he's exhausted. Can't you tell me anything else?" Jayce sounded exasperated as he spoke in a hushed voice. "What does he need? Is his leg hurting at all? His neck or spine? What about his arm??" He heard Jayce pause. "...did you do that?" It was quiet again. "That process isn't supposed to be done on people. That's not why I showed you that." He heard Jayce pause again. "You can't just do that because it looks nice." Another pause. "No." It sounded like the Hexcore was giving Jayce a hard time and, based on what it told Viktor, it seemed to like doing that a lot. It had been a few more hours, Viktor was sure. Jayce had allegedly stared at him for nearly a whole hour before he relaxed and the Hexcore had informed Viktor that the taste of rot has settled back into that spicy cinnamon. The pen hadn't been moved from the desk and Viktor's hands were still shaking. He... didn't know where that kind of strength had come from. He did not have that strength. He paused as he heard Jayce suddenly stumble over his words. "I-I do care! I care about-" It seemed like the Hexcore had interrupted him. "I do need him." Another pause. "N-No, not for anything in particular, I just... I need..." He trailed off. "Something like you wouldn't understand." There was suddenly a loud crackling noise and Viktor could see the Hexcore let out electricity. "Ow, fuck! Quit doing that!" Viktor allowed a small smile to tug at his lips. It was what he deserved. Why wouldn't he just ask Viktor if those parts of him were alright?? Did he really not think Viktor would tell him the truth?? He gave a small sigh. "Rotten?? What the fuck do you mean 'rotten'?? I'm not some piece of fruit." Jayce spoke again, sounding beyond insulted. "I... yes, they're... they're loud right now." Viktor's vision was blurring and his eyes slid shut. Three more seconds of consciousness. "...So what does he taste like?" Jayce's question was the last thing he heard before he slipped off into darkness. Come the next morning, Jayce was not in the lab when Viktor woke again. However, there were new items in the lab. They'd been placed next to his window seat and Viktor rolled over to look at them. He recognized Jayce's quickly scrawled handwriting. From Professor Young and Sheriff Marcus. Were... these gifts? Viktor hesitated before reaching down. Something smelled good. Buttery. He tugged at the basket first, pulling at the cloth that covered it before revealing what seemed to be miniature croissants. Instantly, Viktor perked up a little. It had been so long since he'd seen Skye's baking and he was relieved to see she hadn't seemed to lose her touch. They weren't warm anymore, but they smelled incredible. Viktor's hand slowly moved to the other item. Was this... from the Sheriff? Viktor rolled himself over completely, feeling the sun against his back. It was folded fabric and the fabric felt thick. He furrowed his brow and snagged it with his fingers before pulling it up. His eyes widened. It was a proper winter cloak. Viktor was stunned silent for a moment. Was he... ever going to use this?? The gesture made his chest warm, but... Would Jayce ever give him the opportunity to use it?? Where... was he? Viktor glanced around the lab uncertainly. Wait, hadn't Jayce said something to Mel about... a theater? Was he at a play? He... Viktor rolled his eyes. If there was one thing he was certain of, Jayce was not a theater person. He would bored out of his mind. But then again, he was going with Mel, wasn't he? His fingers slightly dug into the fabric he was holding on his lap. Viktor nearly jumped out of his skin as there was a tapping noise from the window. He turned to look back and the relief that flooded his chest nearly brought tears to his eyes. Jinx was shivering outside, standing on the ledge. She had on a thin coat that looked like it had come from Silco's closet. She was... Viktor instantly moved over, shakily undoing the lock on the window before sliding it down. "Jinx! Jinx, hey!" He stretched out his hand into the frigid air, the other gripping the lower half of the window. Jinx's pale hand immediately met his through the geometric bars. She looked so... upset. Her face was stained, the makeup having run. It looked like it had dried already. "Jinx... here!" He pulled his hand away before moving back to the winter cloak. He picked it up before moving back over, stretching out the fabric. Jinx paused as she stared at it. "I will trade you, hurry please!" Jinx sniffled as she shed her thin coat, swapping it through the bars for the cloak. She pulled it on and her breath came out in a weak, relieved puff. Viktor placed the coat to the side, stretching out his hand again for her to hold, which she quickly did. "What happened?? Jinx..." Viktor trailed off in disdain. Jinx sniffled quietly, turning her head away as her other hand shakily gripped the fur-lined fabric of the hood and pulled it up. She already seemed like she was going to cry again, burying her face into the hood. She whispered that she'd met her sister again yesterday. Viktor paused. He... remembered Sevika mentioning a sister. The sister. They'd never told him that it was... "You have a sister?" He asked in hushed shock. Jinx blinked and glanced over, scanning him over and seeming to be trying to gauge if he was serious. He was. She asked if they'd never told him. "N-No, they never said a word." Was that what they'd meant?? Someone would return that could hurt Jinx like no one else could? His shoulders sank as her grip tightened. "Sh-She kept c-calling me Powder. A-And I kept trying t-to say that ain't me anymore. And she was with... an E-Enforcer. She was w-working with a Piltie. Sh-She never would've w-worked with a Piltie before." Jinx hiccuped, tears already seen in her eyes again as her voice strained. "...She kept calling me Powder, Viktor. I-I kept trying to tell her. I-I'm Jinx." Viktor whispered that he knew. "And she looked... s-so upset and disappointed i-in me." Jinx reached up, wiping her eye and smudging her makeup further. Another weak hiccup escaped her. "I-It's just a n-name. Why d-did she look a-at me like I was d-dead?? It's just a name! I-I don't use it anymore. I-It... isn't like I killed me..." Jinx had tears running down her face now. "Right?" Viktor stared at her. "No. No, Jinx. When you leave behind a name, you are not killing that part of you. You are simply bidding it goodbye." He replied softly. "Besides, as someone who has... experience... being dead..." He paused to let Jinx sniffle and give a small giggle. A smile pulled at his lips. "I left that life behind, but I was still me. Just... in a new way." He tipped his head. "One moment." He gently let her go before moving back. He scooped up a couple of croissants before coming back and holding one out to her. "Have you ever had a croissant, Jinx?" Jinx took it with wide eyes, sniffing at it. Her eyes were huge. It must've smelled good. She glanced up at him and he held his up in a pretend toast. "Here. To Jinx. To the new you." Jinx stared at him before reaching back through the bars and bumping her croissant against his. "To the new me." She whispered softly. They both took a bite of their croissants and Jinx squeaked, covering her mouth at how flaky it was. "I-It's really good!" Viktor swallowed his before scolding her for speaking with her mouth full. Jinx huffed softly. She finally gave a weak sigh, letting out that puff of breath. "And the new me... Is 'Jinx' really okay?" Viktor tipped his head before chuckling softly and said he found her to be quite endearing company. Jinx lit up a little, her blue eyes seeming to brighten up a bit. Viktor watched in amusement as Jinx ate the croissant in two bites before quickly swallowing. "Can I have more??" She asked, her scratchy voice breaking eagerly. Viktor laughed softly. He moved back and decided to bring over the entire basket. He shared the whole thing with Jinx, though he allowed her most of it. She needed food more than he did. Once she'd finished, she looked as if she was feeling much better. "I know I have been gone only a day, but is everyone still alright?" Viktor asked quietly. Jinx paused before giving a weak sigh through her nose. "Sevika got kicked out of... three bars last night, I think?" Jinx tipped her head to the side as she thought. Her shoulders sank. "...Silco's only asked for help with his eye and he hasn't talked about anything else... He won't... talk to anyone but me right now." Jinx held out her hand and Viktor took it again. "It's been a day, but we miss you." She said softly. Viktor's chest ached as he replied he missed them too in a soft voice. "Are you sure you can't come back??" She sounded a little desperate. Viktor shook his head, saying he didn't want the vents closed off. That the toxic fog would consume Zaun again. "I can handle it." Viktor scoffed and replied in a slightly scolding voice that she could not. Jinx gave a small, grouchy huff. Her hand squeezed Viktor's, tapping her colored nails against his hand. "...The Gemstone I took was stolen. Those... stupid Firelights took it." She said, turning her head away. "And I think I just figured out the tech too." "I am quite confident you will have another chance." Viktor replied quietly. Jinx glanced up at him through the bars. "You should leave before you are seen. Not to mention your hands are freezing." "...I can come see you anytime I want, right? You'll be here?" She asked quietly. Viktor replied that he didn't imagine he'd be going anywhere else. "And I get to keep this?" She tugged at the winter cloak with her other hand. Viktor nodded. He did emphasize on the fact that she could not be caught. "What if he's in there when I come see you?" Viktor scoffed. "And what will he do? If he keeps me from seeing you, I will become a problem." Viktor said, his voice taking on a darker tone for a moment. It softened when he spoke again. "So yes, you can visit whenever you'd like." Jinx perked up a little, giving his hand another squeeze. "Now go. You need your hands if you want to remain the best shot in the undercity." His tone became warm and teasing. Jinx smiled and thanked him quietly. She glanced to the side before her eyes darted down and back up to him. "Yes?" "...Do you think my sister will ever like this new me? Do you think she'll ever like... Jinx?" Her voice was weak. "I think it may take quite a bit of time for her. Especially if you have not seen each other in years. But yes, I think she will... eventually." He didn't want to promise anything too soon and get her hopes up. He still couldn't believe that no one had told him Jinx had a sister. That Felicia had a second child. Where had she been all these years?? Why had she been separated from Jinx?? He didn't quite understand. He finally pulled his hand back and made another shooing motion. Jinx rolled her eyes before pulling the fluffy hood up. Viktor moved back and carefully slid the window back up before locking it. Jinx moved along the ledge before hopping to the next roof over, soon disappearing. It did make him anxious seeing her climb like that, but he did trust her. He paused as he felt that faint warbling creep into his head. The Hexcore sounded fascinated again.
You care for her too. Deeply. Yet, it is different from the bittersweet feelings you harbor for Jayce. It is... soft. It tastes soft and... sugary.
Viktor glanced back at the Hexcore quietly. He didn't like that it mentioned feelings for Jayce, but he did find it worth explaining his care for Jinx. "She is family. She grew up with the supervision of myself and another. He was still trying to figure out what exactly the Hexcore meant by tasting and he felt he was a step closer. "I care for her as if she were my own blood." The Hexcore gave a curious hum. He did not teach me that word... Family."Family." Viktor confirmed quietly. "Those you care for, though it is not romantic or physical. Simply a love. A closeness and a warm comfort. In an ideal family, that is. Some are... fractured. And a family is usually made up of those who share the same blood. But there are families like mine. They do not share my blood... yet I care for them all the same." Viktor spoke of them fondly. The Hexcore was quiet.
You taste of warmth now. Not... spicy, but similar to that... drink Jayce provided me once. Hot chocolate. Are these feelings of care and... love not tedious to you?
Viktor replied that they very much were. Sometimes they became so stressful that he could barely breathe. Yet... that was family. That supposed care for Jayce, on the other hand. That made him ill and unhappy. He crinkled his nose a little before shaking it off and glancing up. "Was that explanation sufficient?" ...I don't quite understand, but yes. I will take this into thought. Ponder. The Hexcore retreated from his mind with another curious hum. Viktor sighed, moving to sit on the edge of the window seat. He glanced over at the coat he'd traded Jinx. He stretched out a hand, resting his fingers against it. Three second of silence. Three seconds of nostalgia. Three seconds of missing his family all over again.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It was mid-afternoon when Viktor started to become bored and irritated. He'd taken off the corset vest and left himself in just the pants and the collared shirt. He gave a heavy sigh, having already done a few laps around the lab to explore everything. He paused before glancing down at himself. Maybe he could... Viktor began to hesitantly unbutton his shirt before pushing it to the side to show off his hip. He ran his fingers over the Runes that represented his five senses. If Jayce had built all the proper systems, were these just to enhance his senses? He furrowed his brow quietly. He moved to his other side. Balance. Stability. Awareness. And... Viktor felt his skin prickle as his fingers came to a stop just above the Domination Rune. It made him... uneasy. It even spurred fear in his chest. Why would Jayce add that?? He knew this Rune was often associated with power, but... Was it to give Jayce power over him? Or was it to give Viktor power?? Three seconds to trace it over with his fingers. As far as he knew, it hadn't done anything. It didn't spawn any thoughts in his head like the Binding Runes did. Was it for his strength? Viktor glanced up at the pen that was still embedded into the table. The ink around it had dried into a mess. He wished he hadn't missed. He should've hit one of Jayce's tendons. He should've made him lose a finger or two. Rendered them useless. Viktor's fingers curled into the cushions of the window seat beneath him as he became uncomfortable. He... had done all that talk about killing Jayce, but he really, really didn't think he could do it. He really didn't know if he could... do that to anyone. He glanced over at the desk, where the Hexcore had been floating. It wasn't spinning and it hadn't been for a few hours now. Viktor wondered if it was sleeping. Or... whatever its version of dormancy was. This Rune was... It made him unsteady and it made him paranoid. He... needed this fucking thing out of commission before he could find out what it did. He inhaled shakily, grabbing his cane before pushing himself to his feet. He swallowed quietly, scanning over the room. He just needed... something. It couldn't possibly be as bad. The Rune was somewhere he could easily reach, not to mention it wasn't over any major arteries like his Binding Runes were. He furrowed his brow, moving forward. He needed... Three steps to the desk. Three seconds to look it over. He hesitated before reaching out again. His fingers snagged the precision knife. It was minuscule, used for exact cuts. It was the closest thing to a scalpel Viktor recognized. His fingers were already shaking. He pulled it up into his hands, placing his cane against the table. Viktor carefully removed the plastic safety cap from it and he let out a shaky breath through his nose. He didn't know why he was frightened. He just needed to distort it. The cut could be superficial. Surface level. He just... had to be careful. He forced his hands still and pushed his shirt to the side to reveal the Rune. There was no sign that it was active, the blue lines that made it up being pale. Despite this, Viktor knew he didn't want to find out what happened when it was. He held the precision knife down to his side. When he pressed it to his skin, he could already feel it sinking in. Three seconds. Three seconds. Two. One. The soft breath Viktor let out surprised himself after the quick motion. He could feel the waistband of his pants suddenly become... wet. He blinked, staring forward before carefully setting the blue-stained blade back on the desk much calmer than he would've expected from himself. It took a minute before the pain set in and he felt the tears finally climb to his eyes as he choked back a whimper. It was stinging. He inhaled shakily and reached down. His hand slipped for a moment, but he managed to hold the skin together, albeit at an angle. He barely managed the glance down and all he saw was blue. He startled, glancing up through blurry eyes as the Hexcore started to spin again. He heard that warbling creeping back into his mind and he squeezed his eyes shut as he kept his side held shut.
What are you doing?
There was no concern in that multi-layered voice. Not even confusion. Only curiosity. Viktor grit his teeth before burying his face against his shoulder. The Hexcore gave small spins as it hummed.
He felt that.
The statement made Viktor freeze up and he glanced at the Hexcore with wide, teary eyes. Jayce had felt him disfigure the Rune?? How?? His heart was pounding. The wound was still stinging and he lamented that maybe he should've washed the blade before using it. He didn't know what Jayce had used it on last, but good gods... He finally managed to pull his hands away, the skin having fused back together. It was still burning. He really should have washed the blade. His hands were stained blue now and he leaned against the desk, staring at them.
You've upset him.
"I do not care." Viktor breathed out, his voice strangled. "I will not allow any potential to control me. He will have to carve it back into my body and if he dares to touch me, I will pull out his eyes with my own fingers." He paused and squeezed his own eyes shut, turning his head to the side. "I-I mean, I..." He couldn't draw together anything. Not an excuse nor an explanation. He finally buried his head against his wrists, them being the only unstained part of his hands.
You're not going to do that.
The Hexcore's tone was flat and Viktor gave a weak nod. "I am not going to do that." He agreed in a strained voice. "I cannot act on any of these thoughts. They terrify me." His side was still stinging and he shakily moved his hand back down to it, placing pressure on it in some desperate attempt to alleviate the burning.
I can fix that. You taste unbearably hot. It is unpleasant. Reach out to me.
The Hexcore said it so casually, but Viktor shot a look up at it. "I would not be so foolish as to touch you directly." To his plain surprise, he heard the Hexcore actually let out an annoyed scoff.
You won't be. Just reach out already.
The Hexcore's tone was slightly irritated now and Viktor furrowed his brow. He shakily stretch out his hand in the direction of the Hexcore before it suddenly felt like lightening was moving through his body. His legs gave out and he nearly collapsed against the desk as he screamed, feeling that blinding-hot feeling rip through his body. It seemed to be making its way to his hip and it suddenly went cold. The stinging had stopped, replaced with a coldness. It wasn't a chill. Just... It felt like he'd been violently scrubbed clean from the inside out and he squeezed his eyes shut again as the Hexcore let out a satisfied hum.
It is fixed now. You're welcome.
Viktor shakily raised his hand to his side. Beyond the fact that he was stunned silent by the cooling sensation, he also hadn't expected how much... attitude the Hexcore had. It had said it combined both of their personalities, but Viktor couldn't even imagine how it had gotten to this point. When it spoke again, it seemed uninterested in what it had just done now. It seemed concerned with something else.
When that woman brought the basket of food, I expected you would share. Jayce has not given me any kind of bread or pastry. He always feeds me something if he is eating. You will not give me the same courtesy?
It sounded vaguely insulted and Viktor could barely manage to roll his teary eyes. "Just because he feeds you doesn't mean I will. We are not the same." He reached up, his hand staining the wood of the desk blue as he barely managed to pull himself to his feet. At least his side didn't hurt anymore. "I... must go clean up." He wasn't sure why he was telling the Hexcore that, like it would care.
You've really done it. He's considering leaving the theater right this instant, but someone appears to be talking him out of it. I have heard this voice before. In this room, even.
It was Mel. There was not a doubt in Viktor's mind that it was Mel and it put such an odd feeling in his stomach that he felt like he'd been punched in the gut. He quickly dragged his attention away to focus again. How had Jayce felt him cut it?? He had to be connected to it, but how? And... Viktor's hands tightened into fists as he leaned against the desk. What had Jayce been planning to do with a Rune he could sense? Why was there such an ache in his chest? Viktor took his cane before pausing. "...Thank you." Despite the pain and its attitude, the Hexcore had stopped the stinging. Viktor could only wonder if it had numbed the area or removed whatever potential infection it was entirely. The Hexcore seemed extremely pleased by his thanks as it spun in place. It sounded much less cocky now.
You’re welcome. He keeps spare clothes in the cabinet by the sink in that room.
It sounded much calmer and much more genuine. Viktor made his way towards the bathroom, really not too thrilled about having to wear Jayce's clothes. However, his pants were ruined and he didn't wish to dirty the shirt as well. He felt terrible staining the clothes that Silco had given him. He slipped into the bathroom before approaching the cabinet. He opened it and, sure enough, there were clothes. All of them likely far too big for him. He needed pants with an elastic waistband.
Second to bottom in the pile. The woman he was speaking to was unsuccessful in convincing him to stay. He is on his way back as we speak. He tastes rotten again.
The Hexcore sounded displeased by this. Viktor had followed its instruction to pull out a pair of sleeping pants. The waistband was small enough that it would do. He pulled down one of the shirts, knowing it wouldn't matter how it hung on his body. He stripped out of his nicer clothes, neatly folding them and placing them on the counter. He slid on the new clothes, crinkling his nose a little at Jayce's scent. Jayce always smelled faintly of smoke. He supposed it made sense, considering the other was from a forging family. He must've spent quite a bit of time forging. Viktor used his cane to move from the bathroom, setting the folded clothes next to his window seat. He scanned over the lab again before his gaze landed on the door. Obviously it would be locked, but Viktor was also a Zaunite. From a young age, he'd learned lock-picking from Singed. Of course, the occasions were rare that he applied this knowledge. He moved over to the door, his cane tapping. He reached out before his hand settled on the knob. He'd been ready to pull when he nearly fell on his ass as the door clicked open. He stared at it in shock for a moment. His hands tightened on his cane. He furrowed his brow and immediately moved to the side. There. He could see the Runes etched in the doorway. Jayce had anticipated an escape attempt, but Viktor was more than insulted that he'd left the door unlocked. He slammed it shut a little harder than he meant to. He hadn't even needed to guess what the Runes were. He just knew they were likely dangerous. And Jayce seemed like he'd been more than willing to let Viktor hurt himself in some frantic escape attempt. Viktor's hands were still gripping his cane. "He says he cares for me, yet he seems more than eager to allow me to flee into something that will harm me. Something that he set up." The Hexcore warbled.
I was wondering about that. He'd gotten quite a scolding for causing damage to the doorframe. However, I have a feeling he knows you to be smarter than that. Because I know you're smarter than that. He likely needed a contingency in case you became desperate.
The Hexcore hummed.
You've gone sour. Do you hear the thoughts? Are they loud?
They... were so very loud. He wanted to paint the doorframe with Jayce's blood. He wanted to watch it run down that door, tracing the mechanism holding it shut. He wanted it all outlined in red, maybe with pieces of Jayce's flesh as accents. He'd remove his eyes, he'd remove his tongue. He'd remove every finger one by one. Viktor's vision had tunneled and when he came to, he was holding the precision knife in his fingers again. Back at the desk. Viktor's eyes were wide. He couldn't. He couldn't. His lips were parted as he pulled in shaky breaths. He finally set his cane against the table before reaching out. He popped the plastic safety cap back onto the precision knife with shaky fingers. Put it down. Put it down. He couldn't seem to do it, feeling the smooth metal against his palm. He squeezed his eyes shut, the knife shaking in his hand. His back was to the door. He is back in the building. Approaching fast. Mind is racing. Heart is racing. Whatever you did, it seems to have affected him. The Hexcore fell quiet and he watched as it seemed to spin itself in place playfully.
He is in the hall.
It was right. Viktor could hear the footsteps approaching. The door soon opened and Viktor's whole body stiffened as he heard Jayce's heavy breathing. Had the other run all the way back? "V-Viktor." His voice was strained and he sounded downright panicked. "What did you do??" It took three seconds for Viktor hear Jayce come up behind him. It took three seconds for his thumb to slide the plastic safety cap off the precision knife. It took three seconds for his hand to tighten around it.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Stop." The word instantly erupted from Viktor's throat and he heard Jayce's footsteps stop abruptly. "Do not touch me. Do not come near me." The words strained from his mouth. The interpretation was up in the air on if Viktor was warning him or if he was pissed at him. Viktor wasn't sure what it was either, but he knew that precision knife was shaking in his hand. His lips were parted as he took in a frightened breath. He didn't want to do this. But he did know if Jayce took one more step towards him, his body was going to move without his permission. He could feel it all the way to his false heart. He would stain those pretty white fabrics of his red and he would slice them open and then into the skin beneath. His wrist gave a small twitch, the Binding Rune glowing. The Hexcore pulsed, but it didn't seem like it was interested in talking to Viktor. It seemed like it said something to Jayce and he heard him pull in an uncertain breath behind him."...Oh." It sounded like he'd realized something. "Viktor... we can talk about this. Put the knife down." Jayce's voice had quieted. Viktor took in another shaking breath. He could already feel the tears in his eyes again. He replied in a shaking voice that he didn't know if he could. "I-If you take one more step towards me, I-I will d-dissect you like the cadavers I worked on as a s-student. I will peel you open." Viktor's voice was weak, breathless and absolutely fucking terrified. He was terrified because he really felt like he was going to do it. It made him feel sick. His heart was racing to the point of hurting his chest. Jayce was quiet behind him. He asked if he could at least stay in the room. His voice was hushed now. Was he scared? Was Viktor actually scaring him for once? "I think so. Y-You just can't come near me." Viktor swallowed loudly, his throat feeling completely dry. "J-Just until it passes. Please." He heard Jayce's voice again, though it sounded like he'd distanced himself. He asked if Viktor was still angry at him. "I... I don't..." Viktor couldn't even remember what he'd been angry about. "I-I don't know..." "...Are the Runes causing this??" Jayce asked after another moment. Viktor shakily asked which one, as there were five or more on his body. And they were each ablaze with a bright blue glow. He was going to hurt someone. It really felt like he was going to hurt someone and he was so scared. A small hiccup escaped him and he spoke again in a completely strangled voice, saying he didn't want to hurt him. That he didn't want to hurt anyone. "It's not a 'want'?" Jayce questioned softly. It sounded like he was trying to be soothing, but he also just seemed confused. Was he wondering why the Runes didn't affect Viktor the same way? "No. N-No, it isn't a 'want'. It isn't a 'want' at all! I am scared, Jayce. I a-am going to hurt someone." His voice weakened in fright and he squeezed his eyes shut as he tried to control his breathing. "I-I am g-going to h-have blood on my hands." He finally broke down in tears. He was sobbing now. He couldn't bear it. He heard footsteps and he tensed up. "Don't. I will do it. I will stab you. Don't do it." The footsteps stopped and when Jayce spoke again, he sounded closer. "How certain are you that you'll stab me...?" Jayce seemed like he was trying to put something together in his mind. Likely a plan on how to get the knife away from Viktor with the least amount of physical harm being caused to his person. Viktor replied that he'd never been more certain of anything. That he would cut Jayce's throat open without hesitation. "And yet, that's not something you want to do?? Isn't it amplifying your dark thoughts? You do want to stab me." "NO. No, Jayce, that is not something I want to do, nor is it something I have ever wanted to do. Without these Runes, my thoughts towards you were mean-spirited at their worst. Like how I really did regret saving you and that I should've just let you jump. But I have NEVER-" He inhaled shakily, trying to compose himself as weak sobs threatened to break apart his voice. "I-I have never wanted to m-murder you. Th-The Runes keep putting thoughts in my head. Thoughts I-I would never h-have otherwise. It is unbearable, Jayce. It is so painful." Viktor's voice was shredded as more tears ran down his face. He finally, finally managed to move, turning to face Jayce with the precision knife gripped tightly in his hand. Jayce's eyes were wide as he took a small step back, holding his hands up a little. "I-I think... out of everything you've d-done to me, this may be the worst."The way his voice broke seemed to finally make Jayce's face change and his shoulders sank ever so slightly. The tears wouldn't stop from Viktor's eyes. "I h-have no v-violent thoughts for the Runes to amplify. S-So they embed m-me with new ones." Viktor managed in a quiet voice. He'd never seen Jayce look so absolutely torn. He even seemed like he actually felt bad. Viktor hiccuped again. "...I thought you were like me. I thought you just kept them buried so much deeper down than I did. That you'd need more in order to bring them out." Jayce's voice was quiet. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut before asking why Jayce would ever want to draw those thoughts out of someone. "...So I know there's others like me. That I'm not some special one-of-a-kind lunatic." Maybe he wasn't. But right then? Right then, he was. He really was. Viktor inhaled shakily. "I-If you put the knife down, we can talk about those Runes." Viktor's heart was still racing. He couldn't let it go. He couldn't put it down and his hands were shaking so bad. "You did this to me on purpose." Viktor's voice was weak. He ached so badly. Everywhere. His back and his neck were absolutely locked and rigid. His leg was sore and his head hurt. Jayce finally clenched his jaw. "I-I did. I did and I'm sorry. I-I just wanted someone else like me. I just wanted you to be like me. S-So we could just be like that together." He stumbled over his words, his voice finally straining a little as he kept his hands held up. Viktor could only stare at him, struggling to breathe around the lump in his throat. He whispered that his body hurt so badly and that he was losing feeling. "D-Do you think you'll lose enough feeling to drop it?? I'd help to take it from you, but, uh... I don't exactly want to be... dissected." Viktor's eyes moved down to the precision knife, tracing along the angled blade. He would barely have to use any force at all to pierce the skin when the blade was this sharp. "Viktor." Jayce's voice was guarded before he swallowed and quickly hushed his voice down. "Viktor... please." He... He couldn't fall for it. Not again. He couldn't let that gentle voice fool him again. He lifted the knife ever so slightly and saw Jayce freeze up a little. No. No, he didn't want to. He didn't want this. "Jayce." The other's name was an absolutely terrified whisper, but it didn't pull the same reaction that it had before. There was no pink tint, only a furrowing of Jayce's brow. Concern. Worry. Was it because Viktor wasn't scared of him? Viktor was scared of hurting him. Viktor was terrified of hurting him. And it didn't seem there was anything exciting about that for Jayce. "I-I have a headache." It was so bad that it felt like it was pounding in his skull. "M-My eyes are blurry." Jayce quickly stated that he was panicking and he was going to pass out. "I-I..." Viktor suddenly swiped the blade outwards, causing Jayce to instantly yank back the hand he'd been stretching out to him. His eyes were wide and Viktor inhaled shakily. He couldn't smell blood yet. The slash hadn't landed. His heart hurt. Not in an emotional way, but it physically felt like it was about to burst. Viktor stared forward with wide eyes.There had been absolutely no thoughts to accompany the movement. His body had lashed out on its own like this was second nature. No, not just his body. Him. He had lashed out like it was second nature. "Viktor. Viktor, look at me." Jayce kept his voice soft and gentle. No, Viktor couldn't believe it. He didn't trust him. He couldn't. Despite this, he managed to drag his eyes to Jayce's face and the other gave a weak, comforting smile. No. Damn him. Damn that smile. Viktor's hand tightened on the knife. "Viktor." Jayce said his name so delicately. So gently. It made Viktor's chest ache. This pang was emotional. "This is terrible, Jayce. You're terrible." He managed. Jayce replied that he knew. He was still scanning him over in worry. How could he act so normal?? Like it hadn't been him that pushed Viktor to this point?? "J-Jayce, I am so scared." Jayce softened his voice again as he said that he knew and he was here. "Th-That is not reassuring." He saw Jayce sigh through his nose before saying in slight frustration that he was trying his best. "Th-This was a mistake. A horrible one, on my part." He finally admitted, though it seemed to take everything in him to do so. He hesitantly stretched out his hand again and, this time, Viktor caught him. Jayce swore loudly as blood splattered the floor of the lab. Viktor had sliced open the insides of every finger. Except his thumb, which remained safe. Jayce yanked his hand back, blood immediately starting to pool in his palm. He let out a shaky, controlled breath. Viktor's voice was strained as he apologized, clearly horrified by what he'd just done. His vision was pulsing. He felt so nauseous. He felt so sick. He tipped to the side a little before straightening himself back up, his vision momentarily crossing and blurring. "Y-You're almost there. Stop fighting it. I-If you can manage to pass out, I can get the knife away. You won't hurt anyone else." Anyone else. Just the words made Viktor burst into weak tears again. It had only been one cut. Nothing near what those wicked thoughts were telling him to do. But he'd still cut him. Viktor still couldn't let go of the knife, no matter how badly it scared him to even hold it. "It's just a cut. I'll be okay. Y-You won't dissect me or peel me or do any of that. Okay?" Jayce looked into his eyes worriedly. "Okay?" "...Okay." Viktor replied in a weaker voice. "I still hate you." Jayce replied that he knew, even though his emotions were much clearer on his face now. Hurt. The words really had hurt him. He'd put on a brave face before, but that was gone. Viktor's vision was suffering greatly. He finally felt like he was losing the energy to even speak. "Jayce?" "You can pass out, Viktor. I-It's okay." Jayce spoke assuringly, clearly trying to ignore the fact that nearly the entire white sleeve of his coat was now one consistent shade of dark red. He could even seen the drops moving through the cloth. Or... could he...? He didn't know if he was imagining it. He heard that... creeping.
Good gods, Viktor. Drop already.
The Hexcore sounded appalled and Viktor suddenly felt his energy actively draining. His knees and arms were growing heavy. "U-Ugh..." Viktor's noise was pained. It felt like he was being slowly guided down to rest. His vision was tunneling so hard and it felt like he was never going to reach the end. He finally managed to drop the precision blade and his knees soon buckled after. It felt like the Hexcore was forcing him into unconsciousness. He needed it. He really needed it. "Jayce." "Here." Jayce instantly came up, snagging the precision blade with his foot before quickly sliding it away and behind him. Finally... Finally, Viktor tipped to the left. There was a jerking movement and he felt a hand catch him before he could collapse completely on his side. He'd been on track to smash his head against the floor. Viktor could barely feel his hand. He could barely see anything. Hear anything. Feel anything. His heart felt like it was destroying his ribcage and it took three seconds before the mercy of the quiet dark rushed forward to consume him.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor was quivering. He was back in that purple-tinted place and he couldn't move. He'd been curled up on his side for what felt like hours, struggling between nausea and stunted breathing. Sometimes it was both at once. Throughout it all, a hand had been resting against his side. The Hexcore hadn't said a word, though it did maintain Jayce's appearance. Or its twisted, glowing version of it. Whatever it was, Viktor was glad it was there. Even if it had been silent. The hand on his shoulder had been keeping him partially grounded throughout his silent struggling. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three... hours? Viktor finally shifted, his fingers weakly disturbing the reflective ground and sending ripples across it. He finally took in a small, shaking breath before dragging his arm close to himself and pushing his upper body upwards to rest on his elbows. Even that much nearly exhausted him again.
You shouldn't try to get up again so soon. That took a lot out of you. If you had still been in your spectral form, nearly three-quarters of you would've ceased to exist.
Viktor's head slightly spun and he buried his face into his hands. He could feel the Hexcore's hand move to his back, rubbing it quietly. His back ached and he flinched weakly. An outburst like that would've dissipated him in his spectral form. Why couldn't he ever have that kind of mercy? He couldn't remember ever feeling such blinding hot panic like that. Not in this life or the last. His head still held a faint pounding and he shakily stretched up his hands, digging his palms into the sides of his temples as he squeezed his eyes shut. "...How long have I been here?" He asked after a moment, his voice hoarse.
About five hours or so. It is quiet outside. It is nighttime. The moon is shining where you are resting.
The Hexcore paused as Viktor spoke, saying he wanted to see it.
Your physical body is still recovering. Do not move too much. You put an incredible strain on your synthetic heart.
Viktor closed his eyes and he drew in a breath. When he opened them again, he was underneath several layers of warmth. Blankets. He was lying on his back on the window seat and when he looked to the side, he did see the moon. Bright and full. It looked just as it had that night. Viktor stared for another few moments before squeezing his eyes shut. He never would've thought that an organ would be sore like this, but his heart proved him wrong. It was still pumping, but it felt sore similar to how one's arms would feel after picking up heavy objects one day before waking up the next. Viktor's hand twitched and he finally moved his arm, reaching up and sliding his hand over his chest just so he could feel the heartbeat. Just so he could recognize that, yes, he was in fact still alive. He took in another breath. Finally, he turned his head to the side and paused. Jayce was asleep in the chair at the desk, his head slumped awkwardly against his shoulder. His hand lay in his lap, wrapped in bloodstained bandages. Viktor... felt bad. He'd cut someone. He'd finally cut someone. Even if it had just been Jayce, the realization still made him ache. He hated it. Truly and utterly, he hated it. He didn't like hurting people and he didn't want to hurt people... Not even Jayce. Not even after all he'd done. Hurting someone like that felt sickening. Seeing blood he'd drawn. Sickening. "Ugh..." He could see the Hexcore giving small spins inside its stand as it floated in place. He paused. Jayce was still in his Councilor clothes. He hadn't even changed at all?? Viktor's body felt heavy. Jayce's hand... Viktor managed to sit up and slipped himself out of the blankets. His feet settled on the floor and he managed to push himself up. His legs were shaky. He glanced around for his cane, but it wasn't with him. There. It was still leaned against the desk. Well... Viktor did suppose the Hexcore had already fixed his leg, he just... He wanted his cane. Walking without it felt wrong. But... Viktor took a step forward. As expected, there was stiffness from his knee, but not much else. He sighed. It took three steps to get to Jayce. Viktor stretched out his hand for his cane before he faltered. His gaze had moved down to the bloody bandage. Jayce's hand lay limp in his lap. There was a roll of bandages up on the desk. He glanced up at the other's sleeping face. Maybe it was because he felt less threatened when Jayce was asleep, or maybe because he'd blown all his energy earlier, but there were no violent thoughts surfacing. The Runes remained unlit. Viktor's eyes moved down again and his nose immediately crinkled in displeasure. Jayce must've been stupid in some regard, because why would he try to bandage his fingers by wrapping all of them together?? "Idiot." Viktor muttered, reaching out. He hesitated before slipping his hand under Jayce's much larger one and lifting it. He undid the bloody bandages before his shoulders sank upon seeing the injuries. Medicine had clearly been applied to the clean slice across the inside of all four fingers. Viktor reached out to the bandages. He started with the pointer finger first. Viktor methodically went through, wrapping each finger individually. This had been his fault. No. No, this was... This was entirely Jayce's fault for putting those Runes on him in the first place. He... had to stop blaming himself. Viktor finished wrapping up his hand before placing it back down. He looked him over quietly. Gods, what a face. No wonder Jayce seemed to get all the funding he needed now. That face, combined with a position of power? Poisonous. Viktor let out a sigh through his nose. Perhaps in another life, Viktor would've been smitten with him upon first sight. His eyes drifted to the house crest that Jayce wore on his shoulders. He stretched his fingers out, tracing it. He paused as he heard that creeping warble.
And yet you can still look at him like that? You've been furious with him nearly this whole time, need I remind you of the writing instrument still stuck in the table. Maybe this is too blunt, but what is your plan, Viktor? Are you just going to let him keep you in here? You don't want to hurt him or kill him. He's barred the windows and trapped the door. What will you do?
The Hexcore sounded so very curious and Viktor hesitated. What... was he going to do? No, he didn't want to stay trapped in here. But then again, it was right. He didn't want to hurt Jayce. He didn't want to kill him. Good gods, without how bad he'd just panicked from cutting him once, Viktor was sure he would have a real heart attack if he'd injured him any worse. Viktor stared at Jayce quietly. He wondered... what would happen... if he just played right into Jayce's hands and gave him what he wanted. Viktor paused. "Could you tell me what he wants from me?" He asked the Hexcore quietly. Perhaps if he... played his cards right, he could convince Jayce to let him out of this room. He'd always been quite good at cards.
Affection. Attention. Adoration. All the things I think he doesn't deserve and did nothing to earn. Perhaps he's just become accustomed to it through his partners and the parties he attends.
Viktor furrowed his brow. Jayce... really did not deserve those things and especially not from him. Of course, diving right into showing all those things would be a mistake. Jayce was still smart. He would be suspicious of Viktor's switch up near immediately. He would have to start small. He hesitated before moving to the side of the chair. Slowly, he lowered himself down next to it before resting his head against the chair and leaning it against Jayce's leg. The other was still warm. Surprisingly quiet too, for someone who usually sounded like a sputtering chainsaw. Perhaps it was the awkward position of his head that was keeping him quiet. Because it was an awkward position. The Hexcore let out its quiet, haunting laughter.
You are going to give him what he wants? Then what? Pull the rug from under his feet? What is your plan, Viktor? You continue to confuse and fascinate me.
The Hexcore sounded quite entertained and Viktor rolled his eyes. "You seem quite talkative for something that is simply observing us. We must not be entertaining enough." He joked dryly. He instantly scoffed as the Hexcore spoke again.
Oh, you certainly aren't. He's quite annoying at times and I can't say you do very much besides sit and sulk about. If I were not confined to this form and personally connected to both of you, I would've moved on by now.
Viktor replied that he felt so honored in a flat tone. That haunting laugh erupted in his head again.
He tastes of cinnamon again. A bit of... sweetness? Sugar. Cinnamon sugar. He's quite calm again. Perhaps due to his resting state.
The Hexcore mused over it quietly and a question crept into Viktor's mind. "You say we taste of this and we taste of that. You have not yet informed me what you... taste from me." It felt odd to say it out loud. The Hexcore spun in place.
It is something I did not recognize at first. When I described it to Jayce, he informed me it was a pastry of some kind. A sweetness. I think you would be the only thing I could handle with that kind of taste. He told me what I was tasting was maple and pecan. He said they are usually served in a certain form. A maple... pecan... pastry braid? A plait?
The Hexcore seemed as if it was carefully piecing all the words together. Viktor was a little stunned. Maple?? That was something far too sweet, even for him! He glanced up at Jayce, who allegedly tasted of cinnamon sugar, but became rotten when his urges took over. And he... Viktor raised his own hand quietly. He tasted of maple plaits and would take on a sour taste when his emotions were unwell. That was... That was fascinating. He glanced up at the Hexcore quietly. "Is it our emotions that you taste?" He questioned.
Not all the time.
Viktor furrowed his brow. "What about our thoughts? Is that something you taste?" Not exactly. Viktor sighed through his nose. "You are being quite vague and I feel it may be purposeful." The Hexcore gave a chilling chorus of a chuckle.
This is just as new to me as it would be to you. I am still learning. Adapting. Exploring. And the way you both taste is... fascinating to me. You aren't entertaining in the least most of the time, but you are interesting to study.
"...Thank you, I suppose." Viktor stated flatly, raising a brow.
You're welcome.
The Hexcore replied casually, either not understanding or simply choosing to ignore Viktor's sarcasm. Based on which one it was, Viktor was sure he could decipher whose personality the Hexcore had taken the most from. He watched as it went back to doing small spins in place, the presence retreating from his mind once again. He glanced up. He knew it would downright shock Jayce to see Viktor so close to him in the morning, but it was what he was hoping to achieve. Jayce certainly wouldn't be happy that he was on the floor. The Runes remained quiet. The Runes remained unlit. Viktor buried his face ever so slightly against Jayce's leg before closing his eyes again.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor stirred as he was jostled just a little bit. He could feel arms. One was slipped under his back and the other was... wrapped around one of his legs. His entire leg, even. He furrowed his brow and opened his eyes as whoever was carrying him carefully placed him down. He blinked open his eyes completely and started to sit up, feeling the hands instantly yank back. "Viktor? How do you feel?" He startled and glanced back up at Jayce. The other had his hands raised in front of him, as if he was showing Viktor he wasn't holding anything. The other had just placed him back on the cushioned window seat. Viktor managed a small shrug and he could only look defeated. Jayce seemed to notice and his own shoulders sank. "You, uh, you shouldn't sleep on the floor like that. I... I do appreciate the..." He held up his bandaged hand. Viktor pulled his knees up to his chest so he could lean against them. He waited, staring at Jayce. "Th-Thank you. Thank you, I mean." Viktor relaxed a little. "You are welcome." He didn't know why Jayce had such a difficult time with that. He paused as the Hexcore crackled and Jayce instantly rolled his eyes. "You don't have to comment on everything. It's not required." He said aloud, turning to face the Hexcore, which seemed to give an indignant crackle in response. "You're not one to talk! You haven't even thanked me for feeding you, let alone making you." Viktor watched as Jayce stared at the Hexcore before narrowing his eyes. "Well, clearly one of us is." Instantly, Jayce sidestepped the bolt of electricity the Hexcore snapped at him. "Stop doing that! The equipment in the lab is fragile! You are going to get us blown up!" The Hexcore only gave another crackle in response and Jayce gave a heavy sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose. "...Mel's requested to see me, so I have to leave." "You said we would speak about these Runes." Viktor stated, glancing over at him. Jayce paused and he could see guilt flash in his eyes just for a moment. "A-And we will. I promise we will. I just can't leave Mel waiting after leaving her at the theater." Jayce explained clumsily. "I'm sure she'll, uh, chew me out for that." Viktor could feel his question burning in his throat and his fingers lightly curled into the cushions. "Besides... I, uh, need to talk to you about something else too." Viktor furrowed his brow, his shoulders going tense. And it seemed he was right to be worried as Jayce gestured to the side. Viktor followed his gaze before freezing up as he saw Silco's coat laid out. "Wasn't aware you were... close... with a chem-baron. Let alone the chem-baron, but I guess I should've expected that with how you two interacted." There was no pause in his words this time, each syllable starting to be forced from his throat like poison. "Did he come visit you? Drop that off for you to enjoy??" Viktor instantly went a bright blue on his face. "I-It was not like that." He said immediately, looking up at Jayce stared at him doubtfully. Instantly, both panic and anger flared in Viktor's chest. It turns out he wasn't as good a card player as he thought, considering he didn't think he could even pretend to give Jayce what he wanted with how unbearable the other was. "A-And what of you and Mel?? You have no right to be commenting in such a way when you are also affiliated with someone else!" He paused. "A-And he and I are not even affiliated in that way either." Jayce was taken back before narrowing his eyes and stating that it wasn't his business. Good gods, was he so stubborn that it made him stupid?? "Then why would my affiliations matter to you?? It is none of your business either." Viktor turned away, his fingers curling into the blankets beneath him. "Go see Mel. I am sure she is waiting." His tone had become bitter without him meaning it to. He didn't hear Jayce move or say anything and he decided he would make him leave. He reached out and pulled Silco's coat to his lap, running his fingers over the fabric. Instantly, that Hexcore's laugh came bursting into his mind. It was haunting and delighted.
Rotten. What a foul taste.
Viktor heard Jayce turn away. The slam of the door leading into the hallway rattled the wall of the lab. Viktor glanced up. Jayce had stormed out. His chest was tight. He heard the Hexcore hum.
And you... have turned sour. Curious.
Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. He politely asked that it stop talking and the Hexcore hummed in thought before falling silent. Viktor's hands trembled as he held the coat. Finally, the Hexcore spoke again so casually that Viktor didn't even process them at first.
I want to speak to you. Come here.
There was a violent crackling and Viktor was suddenly yanked into darkness. He was spat back out in that purple-tinted place and the Hexcore's words finally clicked as he slowly understood what the hell had just happened to him. He heard footsteps and turned to look back at the false form of Jayce behind him in shock. "I-I could've just come over to the desk!" He exclaimed, his eyes wide. "Y-You didn't have to yank me in here! I feel as if you should ask permission before doing that!" His voice quickly became scolding as he turned to face it. The Hexcore, to his annoyance, only rolled its eyes.
I wanted to talk to you. It is easier for me to do so like this.
Viktor furrowed his brow. "...And you sound just the same outside this place as well." He stated flatly. The Hexcore waved its hand dismissively and Viktor practically bristled before startling as the Hexcore sat down in front of him, resting its elbow against its knee and its head against its hand. It looked bored as it scanned him over.
I want to try a maple pecan plait. A real one. I want to know if the tastes match.
Viktor raised a brow before saying that it would have to wait for Jayce to return. "If you have... forgotten, I am trapped within this room by that doorframe." The Hexcore hummed quietly.
I could drain them for three seconds. It's enough for you to step through, isn't it?
Viktor froze up, staring at it. "And you... did not mention this sooner??" He asked in absolute disbelief. The Hexcore scanned him over with those swirling eyes.
And then what? Are you going to try to escape? I believe a rather... drastic action was promised from him if he couldn't find you before. What do you believe he'll do if you leave him again?
The Hexcore emphasized the last word and Viktor felt a chill go up his spine. That... was right. He scrunched up his shoulders ever so slightly.
And now that he believes you to be... closely acquainted with someone he clearly does not like. Where do you believe he assumes you will go?
Its voice was calm, but it only made Viktor's chest ache. The words felt like a punch to the chest. He curled his fingers into the reflective ground on either side of him. "Then why would I leave? And why or how would I be taking you with me?" His voice was weak, but it still held some bite that seemed to make a smile pull at the Hexcore's lips. It took on a thinking expression, tipping its head to the side.
Well, we would be returning. And if I'm reading your mind correctly, you recall a bakery about two blocks away. You went to it often when you lived before. By my estimate, we would be back within the hour.
Viktor could only stare at it. Was it serious?? It just wanted to go out and get a pastry?? Was it aware of its state? What it was? What their situation was?? He couldn't believe it. "I am unable to take you anywhere. I am not walking out of here with what is clearly something powerful and dangerous." He was absolutely taken back. "And I am not allowing you into my body." He spoke before the Hexcore could even open its mouth and it let out a scoff.
That wasn't what I was going to suggest. While it WOULD be easier for you to just allow me in, I could also try something... different.
It sounded like it was thinking and Viktor asked what it was attempting to do in a guarded voice.
I want to change my physical shape into something you are able to carry. I believe I can do it.
He stared at it in utter shock for a moment before asking if it had ever tried to do that before. The Hexcore shook its head. "A-And if you break instead, what then?? How am I to fix you?? How am I to explain to him??" Viktor was slightly panicked and he paused as the Hexcore raised its hands, slowly lowering them in a quieting motion.
I will not break. Do not underestimate what I am capable of. I told you before. I am capable of anything... I just need to try it. Gather myself. Would you be able to choose something for me? Actually...
The Hexcore tipped its head, seeming to scan him over. It felt like those eyes were staring straight into him and Viktor felt a small shiver grip his body. The Hexcore scanned him up and down before its eyes suddenly sparked in interest.
Now there's an idea.
It murmured the words in fascination and Viktor opened his mouth before he blinked. He was back on the bed, still holding the coat in his lap. After a good moment of processing, he scoffed in disbelief. "You have to stop moving me around like I am some kind of toy!" He scolded the Hexcore firmly. His heart was racing. Was it really serious about this?? They were going to leave? He flinched as a sudden crack echoed through the lab. The blackened sphere was starting to shrink in on itself, though it was clearly taking effort to do so. Viktor quickly got up, making his way over. His leg was still stiff, but he could... He could walk. He reached the desk, watching the Hexcore in slight worry. Its form was shifting, though holes kept momentarily opening to show the purple glow inside. Viktor furrowed his brow. "...Please be careful." He finally whispered. That warbling was still in his mind and he heard the Hexcore let out a breathy chorus of a chuckle. Viktor wished he wasn't so used to it. It was starting to take shape and Viktor's eyes widened. It looked like an exoskeleton, at best, but it was so clearly... "A sparrow?" He asked quietly. It was far too small to be any other kind of bird. And it was... It was moving. It was just the vague outline of the bird, made up of that black webbing as the purple core shone within it. He watched as it tried to pull itself from the confines of the stand. He paused before looking over the base, reaching out and settling his fingers on the plug. He paused. Was this smart?? He really... Did he really trust it that much?
Help. Please.
The Hexcore's voice was plaintive and Viktor finally yanked the plug free. The stand deactivated and the black, sinewy form of the bird finally fell to the desk, tumbling before managing to stand. However, the way it did so was so unlike a bird that Viktor wrinkled his nose in slight uncertainty. It was... The Hexcore turned to look up at him. Every time it moved, either by stretching out its wings or turning its head, it would let out a cracking noise. Viktor started to stretch out his hands before pausing. "If I... pick you up... you will not try to... fuse to me?" He asked quietly. He heard an insulted scoff.
You said you did not want that. I am no monster. Pick me up!
The Hexcore gave an impatient hop and, for a moment, Viktor watched it in tired amusement. It paused and tipped its head.
You taste soft again. This form pleases you?
Viktor blinked before shrugging. "I feel much less... threatened." He finally admitted. He cupped his hands and stretched them out. The Hexcore paused before hopping into his hands. Its claws were gnarled and twisted. Uncertainly formed. It was mimicking a sparrow, down to its appearance, but the fact that it didn't know what it was and hadn't seen one before was obvious. Viktor glanced over at the door. He moved to the bed and set the Hexcore down before picking up Silco's coat and slipping it on, his shoes following. He scooped the Hexcore up and placed it on his shoulder as he pulled the hood up. The Hexcore gave a hum on his shoulder. "And we are... We are coming back?" he wanted to confirm it. He knew it was likely true.
Of course. Let's go. Hurry.
The Hexcore sounded impatient. Viktor moved over to the door before trying it. As expected, it was unlocked again. The Runes glowed around the doorway.
Three seconds.
"Three seconds." Viktor repeated back, his heart racing. He startled as purple electricity suddenly erupted next to him and the Runes around the doorframe sputtered before going dark. Viktor stepped through. He took in a shaking breath, glancing back. He was... He was out. He was actually out. The Runes all lit back up. When the Hexcore spoke again, it sounded a little breathless.
Hurry. We must be back within the hour.
It did sound vaguely excited and Viktor managed a weak chuckle. He was terrified. This was terrifying. He glanced back at the empty stand before closing the door. With shaking hands, he started down the hallway with stiff steps.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor's footsteps were uncertain and stunted. He really wished he'd brought his cane. The Hexcore was settled on his shoulder and he glanced at it quietly. Despite the shape... this looked nothing like a normal bird. He was still absolutely going to get looked at. He was absolutely going to have to make up some answers to questions. The Hexcore scoffed in his mind.
What are you so worried about? You should be glad that I am not in my base form.
Viktor thought out that it still looked very much abnormal and people were bound to ask about it. The Hexcore seemed uninterested in this worry. Dismissive, even, like it was more than aware that was going to be Viktor's problem to deal with. It had no visible eyes, but Viktor felt like he could sense it staring around the hallways. Right, this thing had only ever seen the inside of the lab. He finally heard it sigh. "The inside of the building is not very interesting. All of the students are on break, after all." Viktor stated, glancing over at it. Viktor was still extremely anxious and he actually felt himself getting nauseous. This usually only happened when he was about to speak in front of large crowds. He parted his lips, breathing through it carefully as he walked.It was quite obvious to Viktor now that more people knew of his existence than he ever would've been comfortable with. His fingers curled in the pockets of the coat. He could feel two Cogs in one of the pockets. It was all that he had. It would be enough. The coat still smelled vaguely of cigar smoke. Vaguely of Shimmer. Viktor was slightly worried about that too, but someone would have to come close to make out the scents. And he certainly didn't plan on letting that happen. Viktor reached the front doors and he stretched a hand out. For a moment, he was terrified. He felt he was crossing a line. Genuinely betraying Jayce's trust. Well... Viktor's fingers twitched weakly. Why would he care if he betrayed Jayce's trust?? Jayce deserved to have some sense scared into him, but Viktor only worried because he knew Jayce wasn't going to see a lesson in it. Only a challenge to get him back. Viktor let out a weak sigh through his nose before pushing the door open. The chill outside sank right through the coat and Viktor stepped outside. How had Jinx made it all the way here in this?? His breath came out in a cold puff and the Hexcore had fallen completely silent. Viktor wondered if it was taking everything in. The buildings. The people. The snow. Even the chill in the air. Could it feel temperature? Viktor scrunched his shoulders up as he moved forward. His breath was coming out in puffs like a train.
Why are you making such thin clouds? I haven't seen you do that before. Is it another ability he installed within the body?
The Hexcore sounded curious and he felt it give a hop on his shoulder. His hand aloots instantly reached up in case it fell. He kept his hand slightly cupped around it. "It is cold. My breath is warm and creates clouds of condensation when it is exposed to the air." Viktor explained quietly as he walked down the street. The Hexcore rumbled in interest. Viktor could see the glances people were casting towards him, but none seemed willing to approach. He turned the corner and the ache that suddenly exploded in his chest made him stop in his tracks. The bakery was still there. The sign outside was aged and weathered. Viktor could only stare. The last time he'd been here was two days before his fall, however many years ago. The bakery had been opened by a former student, who'd dropped out to pursue his baker's dream. The Hexcore was quiet and Viktor wondered if it sensed his blinding, aching nostalgia. Viktor made his way forward, his hand shaking as he pushed open the door. He heard a bell jingle above him. Behind the counter, a man stood up and Viktor had to suppress the look of shock that would have spread over his face in an instant. The student was much older now. Bearded and grey-haired. He offered Viktor a smile and welcomed him to the bakery. Viktor hesitated as he reached up, pulling his hood back. The man's smile faltered ever so slightly and he could only seem to stare at Viktor for a moment. "Good afternoon. Your bakery was recommended by the other students." Viktor kept his voice from shaking. "...You from the Academy of Science?" The man scanned him over. "I guess everyone's on break now. Sorry, kid, I was expecting a uniform." Viktor replied that it was alright. The word 'kid' really threw him off. He moved forward to the case, peering inside. "What's, uh, what's the...?" The man gestured to the Hexcore on his shoulder and Viktor paused. "It is a project of mine. A potential... light source. It is much more effective when it is dark, as you can imagine." Viktor replied. He heard the Hexcore scoff, seeming slightly insulted. Despite this, he didn't feel it moving. It seemed like it was playing the part of an inanimate object for him. Viktor's eyes trailed over the case. He could see donuts, croissants, cookies. Cupcakes and small, round cakes. It made his chest ache again. They looked so much better than when this man had first started. He must've perfected his craft. There. He could see the maple pecan plaits on one of the trays. As expected, he could only afford one with what he had. He paused as he realized the man was still staring and he furrowed his brow. "Is... something the matter?" It took everything in him to keep his voice from straining. He knew what the problem was. He hadn't changed in years. The man jumped, seeming to instantly look away once he was caught. He was a big guy, scruffy and muscled. Nothing at all what you would expect of a baker. "My apologies, kid. You... look like someone I used to know back in my Academy days." Viktor feigned surprise, asking if the man had also been a student. "I was. I dropped out for a bigger dream. But you, uh... you really do look like someone I went to school with. He was brilliant. Top of the classes. I heard he even became the Dean's assistant after I left." The man's grip tightened on his arms. Viktor visibly took notice of this. "...We lost him to himself a few years after." Viktor's own shoulders sank a little. He'd barely spoken to this student before. To any student. Did they all remember him? "I hope he's at peace now." Good gods, Viktor had never been farther from it, but he appreciated the sentiment. "I... am sorry for your loss. I... also apologize that I remind you so much of him." The man chuckled, uncrossing his arms."It's so uncanny that it's a little spooky, I must admit. I hope other people haven't been bothering you about it. A lot of the older folk that live around here went to the Academy with him." The man shook his head. "Enough damper on your day, kid. What can I get for you?" Viktor managed the weakest smile before saying he would like just one as he gestured to the maple pecan plait. The man slid open the case and reached inside with a pair of tongs. He picked one up before placing it into a small box. Viktor scooped the Cogs out of his pocket. He traded the man the Cogs for the box and thanked him. "I hope you like it. Maybe even enough to become a regular." The man joked. Viktor smiled before replying that he didn't know if he could. The man seemed a little confused by that. "I hope I am able to return again." Viktor stated, turning away. He... heavily doubted it. He moved back to the door and pulled it open, hearing that bell jingle before he stepped back out into the frigid air. The door shut and Viktor started to walk along the street again.
A light source?
The Hexcore sounded incredibly unamused and Viktor scoffed, letting out that soft cloud. "I could have referred to you as worse." He replied flatly. He could smell the maple and the box was warm in his hands. It must've been freshly made. Three seconds of silence. Of course, that seemed far too long for the Hexcore, who spoke up curiously again.
You felt a pain while you were there. What was the reasoning? Your emotions were saddened. Did you know that man from before?
"Not closely. But yes, we went to the Academy together. He... He recognized me. But, of course, as it has been so long since my death, he would assume I am simply someone who looks incredibly similar. I don't doubt he was stunned to see my features again." Viktor replied in a softer voice. "I often forget many students never left Piltover once they graduated. And many I had gone to school with have settled down with families and established jobs. It is... quite bizarre. It... makes me feel as if I have fallen... so far behind. Knowing this life would never be so simple." His hand curled in his pocket as he walked. He slowed to a stop as he saw the slight gathering of people up ahead. His body went cold inside, to match his skin. Jayce was speaking to the crowd with a smile, seeming to be entertaining questions. He'd brought Mel with him. The majority of the crowd was made up of families with children who stared up at the two Councilors with wide-eyed curiosity and awe. Mel was entertaining a few of the children's questions, a fur coat wrapped over her torso and shoulders. It seemed that she'd once again lent a coat to Jayce, draping him in her white and gold. The sight made Viktor... He clenched his jaw just a little. He wouldn't be able to get past them into the Academy.
That's quite a problem. Is there another way inside?
Viktor sighed. "Not one that doesn't require keys." He replied quietly. He watched as Jayce gently nudged Mel, seeming to signal that they should go. Mel took his offered arm, seeming more than happy to do so. The crowd slightly dispersed as they turned away, heading up the stairs. Jayce held the door for Mel before slipping in after her. Viktor finally started forward again. "We will simply have to follow after. I... had not expected him back so soon and... especially not with her." Viktor was so anxious that he felt sick again. The Hexcore hummed quietly.
As always, she feels odd. I cannot distinguish why and it makes me wary of her. However, Jayce seems to like her quite a bit, so I must tolerate her presence. He brings her to the lab quite often, though they have learned that I do not condone risqué activity from them in front of me.
Risqué activities...? Viktor's chest gave an ugly squeeze as he climbed the steps up to the doors. He focused on the Hexcore's other words instead as he opened the door to the Academy and slipped inside. "When I was dead, she was able to see me with no assistance. She was the only one able to do so." Viktor informed the Hexcore quietly. "Maybe she is not odd, but... attuned to your kind of magic." The Hexcore seemed fascinated by this.
Someone naturally attuned to the Arcane? How curious. I don't believe she acknowledges this, nor does she seem interested in it. Jayce has shown me to her many times. She only displays neutrality and gives him empty praise.
The Hexcore sounded exasperated, like it was tired of their antics. "Viktor?! Viktor!!" He jumped as he turned the corner. The lab door was open and he could hear Jayce panicking inside. "Fuck!!" He heard Mel say something and Jayce spoke again. "He took the Hexcore!! Mel, we have to send out an urgency warrant for him now! That magic is dangerous! There's no telling what he'll do with it!!" Viktor furrowed his brow. He heard the Hexcore give a quiet, choral laugh. Viktor was standing here... holding a warm, maple pecan plait... with the Hexcore sitting comfortably on his shoulder. He guessed that, truly, there was no telling what he'd do with it. Viktor could only roll his eyes. What did Jayce think he'd do with it?? The Hexcore always answered him, but it was stubborn as hell and flippant in its attitude. Viktor doubted he could ever command it. The thought was almost laughable. He hesitantly moved forward. He could hear Mel speaking to Jayce calmly. It seemed she was soothing him with a gentle voice "-will find him. We will find him and everything will be okay. If the Hexcore is truly some kind of weapon in his hands, we will not rest until he is found." Viktor sighed heavily through his nose. Good gods, give him a break. He finally stopped in front of the doorway, staring inside. Mel was cupping Jayce's cheeks and he had his hands over hers as he kept his eyes shut, trying to control his breathing. The sight... made Viktor's chest twist. His hands slightly tightened on the box. He glanced up at the Runes in the doorway. He doubted that they would allow him through this doorway, even if he was returning to the room. The Hexcore spoke again, sounding a bit disgusted.
You are so sour that it burns. Control yourself, Viktor. Jealousy is not a good look on you.
Viktor paused before thinking out to the Hexcore that he was not jealous of this. That he was not jealous of her. Mel was possibly the only thing quelling Jayce's obsession with him. He was grateful for her. The thought had to be pushed through his head, heavy and loaded. Yes, he was grateful for her. He was. Truly. Viktor's hands had tightened on the box. The Hexcore suddenly spoke again. Three seconds. Viktor nodded. The electricity was muted and all the Runes dulled again. Viktor stepped back into the room. Neither of them seem to notice him and he silently made his way back to the desk. He raised a hand up to the Hexcore, who hopped into it. He placed it back into the center of the machine before setting the box down with his other hand. He carefully plugged the machine back in, watching as the Hexcore slowly rose back up into its hovering state. It immediately began to twist out of the bird's form and Viktor watched it curiously. He was so fascinated that he registered the footsteps approaching him a little too late. He was yanked backwards by the hood of his coat and spun around before being slammed down on his back against the table. Jayce stared down at him with wide eyes, his other hand having bunched up the front of his shirt. "Jayce-" Viktor couldn't even get a word out, going completely frozen as Jayce's fist smashed down into the desk next to his head.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
This was the closest Jayce had ever come to striking him. Jayce had just nearly struck him. It was finally sinking in. Viktor's body had locked up completely and he could only stare at him with huge eyes. Whatever he'd been about to say was stolen straight from his throat into silence. Jayce was breathing heavily. "Where did you go??" He demanded, his voice giving the smallest tremble. Viktor couldn't tell if it was from fear or anger. He ever so slightly leaned his head away from Jayce's fist, which was still curled next to his head. He opened his mouth to respond, but only a weak, shaking inhale left him. His heart was racing and it felt so bad that he thought he was going to be sick. The tears were finally welling up and his breathing sped up. Jayce had nearly struck him. He gave the softest hiccup before flinching as Jayce seemed to become agitated. "Answer me!!" "Jayce." Mel's voice was harsh and both of her hands settled on his arm. Jayce managed to tear his gaze away from Viktor to look at her. "Jayce, let him go. This is not going to solve anything." Her voice was firm and Jayce's grip on Viktor twitched. Finally, he released the front of Viktor's shirt and pulled his hand back. The knuckles were bleeding. He'd likely burst the cuts along his fingers again, each bandage starting to stain red. He was furious. Viktor could tell that much. He gripped the desk and slid himself backwards. He pushed himself along the desk until he was pressed against the wall as far as he could get. The Hexcore was spinning and crackling in its stand, having reverted to its original form. Mel seemed like she was trying to calm Jayce, but the Hexcore crackled and Jayce's eyes snapped to it. "Shut the fuck up. You have been nothing but an ungrateful pain in my ass." Jayce moved towards the side of the room and grabbed something off the ground. Mel's hands were clasped in front of herself tightly. The door to the room had long been shut. Viktor's eyes widened as he saw the glass container top. He flinched as the Hexcore's voice suddenly burst into his head.
NO! NO, DO NOT TRAP ME! DO NOT! JAYCE, DO NOT TRAP ME!! JAYCE!!
It sounded both angered and panicked. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, never having heard it that loud. It seemed like it was furiously shooting out electricity, but Jayce fought through it and slammed the glass top down over the stand. Instantly, the connection to Viktor's mind was severed and it became silent. Jayce clicked the top into place, the Hexcore still seen freaking out inside. Whatever it was saying, Viktor could no longer hear it. He was... He was shaking. His heart was pounding so hard that it made his chest ache like it was sore. His fingers curled against the desk. Jayce was breathing heavy, his eyes squeezed shut as he forced himself through the residual pains of the Hexcore's panicked defense. He finally let out a shaky breath and buried his face in his hand. Mel hesitated before approaching him, reaching out and resting her fingers gently against his arm. Jayce glanced over at her and his shoulders sank. "Mel, maybe you should leave." No. No, no, no. Viktor did not want that. He couldn't believe he was thinking it, but he did not want Mel to leave. To his relief, Mel shook her head, saying she wanted him to calm down a little before she did anything like that. Jayce gave a heavy sigh through his nose. He glanced up at Viktor with narrowed eyes. "Viktor, take off his coat." He saw Mel glance back at him in confusion. Viktor's hands shakily raised and he undid the coat before slipping it off of himself. He messily folded it out of instinct before placing it next to himself. Mel furrowed her brow before turning and raising one of them at Jayce. "He's wearing Silco's coat." He hissed the other's name. Mel's eyes were wide as she turned to look back at Viktor, seemingly for confirmation on this. Viktor's eyes instantly avoiding her gaze seemed to be enough. "What?? You couldn't get back into Zaun to go show him what you stole from me?? He couldn't give you a good fuck for a job well done??" Jayce's words were scornful and Viktor's eyes widened. "We weren't like that!!" He instantly blurted out, his voice shaking. "W-We were not acquainted in that way." His voice weakened and he pressed himself back against the wall. The Hexcore was spinning in its container, still conveying panicked movements. For a brief moment, Viktor wondered if it had ever experienced claustrophobia. His heart was still racing. Experiencing fear so vividly again made his stomach turn. He'd never been afraid of Jayce striking him. He'd never been afraid of Jayce physically hurting him. He'd thought about it many times and the thought had made him wary, but deep down, he was convinced that Jayce could never bring himself to do it. Jayce's eyes raked over him like claws and Viktor curled his fingers into the desk again. His arms were locked at his sides and his knees were pulled up to his chest. The quietness in his mind was terrifying. Usually, there would always be that distant hum. Even when the Hexcore wasn't intending to speak to him, the connection was clear. The connection was there. Now, it had been broken and Viktor was stuck with nothing but silence. "I'm not asking again. Where did you go?" Jayce's voice was forcibly calm, but all Viktor could hear was the anger burning beneath it. Viktor stretched out a leg and nudged the box. "Th-The bakery o-on D-Dina A-Avenue." He managed, his voice weak. Mel's eyes widened and she hesitated before moving over. Viktor quickly drew his leg back as she reached out, opening it. Her eyes softened as they glanced up and met Viktor's. Viktor hoped that his eyes conveyed his message clear enough. He was silently begging her not to leave him alone with Jayce. Any disdain he'd had for her previously was gone. She was the only thing saving him. Jayce... was going to hurt him. He'd never been truly afraid of that before. Mel turned back to Jayce. "This is a pastry." She told him, carefully tipping the box to show it off. "I believe he's telling the truth." Jayce could only stare for a moment before that burning, golden-brown gaze snapped back up to Viktor. "Why would you need to take the Hexcore?? A sentient door to the Arcane itself... and you took it out to a bakery??" Jayce asked, his voice shaking with disbelief and frustration. Viktor could admit that it sounded bad. This looked really bad. He glanced away before saying that the Hexcore had asked him to take it. That it was the only way he could get out of the room. Jayce looked him over. "Bullshit. You were going to run back to Zaun. You were going to leave me and you were going to take one of my greatest achievements with you." Viktor instantly stated that he wasn't going to. "I-I just went to the b-bakery. Nowhere else. I t-tried to get us back before you returned, b-but you came back earlier than expected." Viktor managed. He squeezed his eyes shut as Jayce spoke again, asking why he wouldn't have tried to escape back to Zaun if he'd been so happy there. Viktor's hands curled into fists on either side of him. "Because you would hurt everyone I care about. You would tear Zaun apart looking for me." Mel seemed downright angered by his words before incredulously stating that Jayce wasn't some kind of monster. Viktor couldn't look her in the eye. He almost wanted to start laughing as Mel continued, saying that Jayce was one of the most compassionate members of the Council. That he just had a nasty temper. She turned her furious look on Jayce, who weakened a little. "And you have to control yourself. This behavior is not befitting of a Councilor, much less the public face of Hextech! Do you understand me??" Mel's voice was so disappointed and scolding that Viktor even scrunched up a bit. "If he needs to be taken away from you and held elsewhere, I will order it. Keeping him here like this is already toeing the line. I don't care how important that anatomy doll is to you or this Academy. That is a human inside and you will treat him as such." This was the last person in the world that Viktor ever would've expected to defend him from Jayce, but he'd never been more thankful. It was obvious from the start that Mel didn't like him, but she'd at least recognized him as another human being. He watched as several emotions blew through Jayce's eyes and for a split moment, Viktor was terrified he was going to hurt her. Finally, Jayce turned his head to the side, seeming to finally submit his anger. Mel gave a heavy sigh before reaching up and cupping his cheek. "I know how important Hextech is to you and that these creations hold great value." She gestured to both Viktor and the Hexcore. Viktor was a little insulted, but he kept his mouth shut. "You cannot lose your head. The city of Piltover needs you. They look up to you." Jayce's eyes were weakening and Viktor could tell this was all going straight to his ego. Mel was smart. Viktor tried to force himself to relax. His body shook. He still... couldn't stand the silence. The Hexcore had stopped its panicked darting, but it still spun agitatedly in place. The top was latched on and only Jayce could undo it with his fingerprints. "Jayce, you are to stay the night with me. You have to cool down. You and Viktor must be separated until you have a clear head." Jayce started to immediately protest, but Mel seemed to quiet him with one firm look. Viktor stared at them. He was going to be left alone in the lab? He didn't even have the Hexcore to keep him company now. He briefly wondered if fear was some kind of neutralizer because the Binding Runes certainly were not activating to help him right then. The way Jayce seemed to listen to Mel so easily was making his heart curl up. Perhaps he'd... misjudged this. Perhaps it was an obsession that had started out of affection, but became something of hatred. He wasn't sure when the switch had occurred, but it was clear to him that Jayce... Jayce must've hated him now. Viktor's stomach turned. Even if he'd told Jayce he hated him, something ugly in the back of his mind and deep in his heart had reminded him it just wasn't true. He couldn't say the same for Jayce. Now Jayce seemed obsessed with him in a new way. A much more dangerous and threatening way. And Viktor had thought his affection had been bad enough. The thoughts brought new tears to his eyes and they spilled down his face as Viktor stared forward. It... hurt. Every piece of this hurt. Jayce's affection had to be gone now. At least, Viktor was convinced of such. "I apologize for losing my temper, Viktor." He paused and glanced up as Jayce spoke, dipping his head to him. It was clear the apology had been of his own volition, as a forced apology would be painfully obvious. However, Jayce's tone was calm and professional. It was nothing like him. Viktor finally reached up, wiping the tears from one of his eyes."You... have never tried to strike me before." Viktor's voice shook and he couldn't even look at him. Jayce furrowed his brow, finally seeming to admit that he'd just done it to intimidate him. That he hadn't been planning to actually hit him. He apologized again, saying it was extremely evil of him to do so. Viktor didn't believe him for a second. His heart was still pounding. "I-I think I would like to be alone now. Please." It was rare Viktor spoke so pleadingly, but Mel seemed to understand, turning and directing Jayce's attention."We're leaving now, Jayce. You can return in the morning." She told him gently. Jayce really seemed like he wanted to argue, his jaw clenched, before he sighed through his nose and nodded. Mel offered her hand and he took it, allowing her to guide him to the door. Jayce did turn his head slightly to look back at Viktor. Viktor couldn't read his eyes. He couldn't read that expression. He felt sick. He felt so sick. He leaned back against the wall. "...I am so sorry for saving you." Viktor managed in a quiet whisper. Was this really his punishment? Jayce's eyes instantly narrowed and he started to say something, but Mel pulled him out of the room. She cast one last firm, but sympathetic look at Viktor before shutting the door.And he was alone. Viktor could only stare at the door. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes. Three minutes. Three minutes? Viktor wasn't sure anymore. His heart had only calmed down a little and he glanced up, seeing the slightly pushed in wood where Jayce's fist had landed. He finally raised a hand to his head, squeezing his eyes shut and letting his tears fall freely. This... really hurt. They seemed so perfect for each other. Jayce was like a moth to a flame with her. Once upon a time, Viktor could've sworn Jayce was like that with him. He hoped Mel was still free from Jayce's obsessive side. Maybe she could do what Viktor had failed to. Maybe she could stem those thoughts of violence and maybe he could live a... normal life. Without Viktor. Viktor's other hand raised to his head and he buried his face in both of them. Every beat of his heart painfully squeezed his chest and upset his stomach. Viktor finally uncurled himself from the wall and slipped himself forward. He staggered as he slipped off the desk. He glanced over before moving to the Hexcore. He stretched out his hand to the glass, his other arm wrapped over his stomach in some pale attempt to comfort himself. The Hexcore's agitated spinning seemed to calm just a little before small sparks of electricity seemed to poke at where Viktor's fingers were. He could feel a vague tingle, but nothing more. He had no one to speak to. He was alone. He was alone again and one would think over a decade of being alone would've prepared him for this. But it hadn't. And Viktor began to cry.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor did not sleep. He could only lean against the window, staring out into the darkening sky. He was focused on something in the distance. There was clearly some kind of commotion happening in the direction of the bridge. Some kind of disturbance on the Bridge of Progress, but he couldn't tell what. It had to be serious. He'd watched Enforcers run through the street in that direction. His eyes lowered, becoming dull again. He hadn't spoke a single word in at least eight hours. He hadn't closed his eyes once. Vaguely, he could hear the distant gunshots. There really was a problem, wasn't there? Viktor's hands tightened in front of him. Was everyone okay? His shoulders sank. The Binding Runes had yet to light back up and Viktor was really starting to consider the idea of fear being a neutralizer. Then again, he hadn't really had a congestive thought in eight hours either. He could only stare. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes. Three- Viktor jumped in shock as there was a distant explosion, opening his eyes. The lab even gave a slight rattle and he pushed himself to slightly sit up, his eyes huge. Smoke was rising from the Bridge of Progress, illuminated by pulsing light. What was happening?? An explosion of all things?? Viktor pressed his hand to the chilly glass and peered through it, like that would somehow help him see something that was miles away. He was anxious again. Whatever that was, he hoped everyone he cared about was far from it. He'd have to question Jinx about it when he saw her again.Viktor shakily withdrew his hand from the window. There was a light flickering around the lab, tinting it purple. His shoulders sunk and he turned back to look at the Hexcore. It was still spinning in its case. It had been occasionally breaking from its hovering state to nudge against the glass inside. Viktor hesitated. He reached out, picking up his cane before moving over to the case. His leg had started acting up again, likely from all the sudden movement he'd been doing. He pulled the stool over in order to sit in front of the desk. He reached out, placing his hand on the case again. Instantly, the Hexcore seemed to respond, the electricity hitting where his fingers were and making them tingle. Viktor's shoulders sank. "...Can you hear me?" He asked, raising his voice a little louder just in case. He jumped as the Hexcore pulled from its hovering state again in order to bump where his fingers were. "I did not mean to cause so much trouble. Even though this is... partially your fault." The Hexcore zapped at his fingers. "I know you just wanted a pastry. And you probably just wanted to see something other than this lab for a little bit." Three seconds of silence.Viktor's voice was weakened. "...I do not know what Jayce has shared with you, but I believe our relationship was of good standing once. Perhaps we were even friends. He still had an obsession, but it was lessened. It was... controlled for the most part. He was getting better. Maybe... if he hadn't been separated from me so soon, he would be..." Viktor trailed off, his eyes fixed on the ground. "That is the first time he has ever acted on his urge to hurt me. His urges have only been vocalized up until this point." Viktor stretched out a hand to the blood-stained dent in the table, drawing shaking fingers over it. "I... was once a person of affection for him, I believe. And now I... may be an object of his hatred." The Hexcore's electricity buzzed against his fingertips, the glass still separating them. Viktor paused as he felt something wet running down his face again. He reached up and wiped his tears. "I am uncertain if you even care, but I need to talk to someone. Even if I am unable to hear your responses. Just the hum you let off would be enough." His voice became strangled and he swore the Hexcore started to hum a little louder. Viktor was trembling. "Even when he put Binds on me. Even bringing me back to life. All of those things hurt, but he never... laid hands on me. He believed what he was doing was for the good. This time... I think he genuinely wanted to... bash my skull in." Viktor's breathing was becoming heavy. "I-I don't know if you care, but this... is all so painful." The Hexcore instantly bumped the glass again, drawing his eyes to it. "I think you were right before... Maybe not about that particular emotion, but just... Emotions are tedious. Painful. Not even the single millisecond I felt my neck snap could compare." Viktor moved slightly to the side and rested his elbows on the table. He reached out, finally dislodging the broken pen and setting it down on his side. He could still feel the tears running down his face, but he didn't even know if he could bring himself to wipe them. His shoulder was lightly tingling and he lifted his hand to it. That other World Rune was still on his back. Resolve. Viktor felt like it was just a bad joke. He didn't know if he even had any left. He didn't know if he had any steam left to keep going. His stomach had felt like it was collapsing in on itself for at least four hours now. He hadn't eaten anything since those croissants. He didn't want to either. He laid his head down in his arms, his spine giving a slight tremble from the bend. His heart had calmed down, but it felt like his whole chest was actually physically sore. He furrowed his brow, making a small noise of uncomfortableness and slight pain. What if he starved? What if he just closed his eyes and never opened them again? "...Do you think he would care if he came back to an empty shell?" Viktor paused as the Hexcore suddenly seemed to become agitated, bumping at the glass. "...I will not do anything drastic." He promised, reaching up and resting the back of his hand against the glass. The electricity tingled at his skin again. "Please calm down." The Hexcore stopped bumping against the glass and its agitated spinning calmed again. "You have quite an attitude, you know." The Hexcore seemed to stop its spinning before bumping the glass a little harder. Viktor gave a weak smile. The hair tie had long fallen out and his hair dangled around his face. "Yet I had never heard you so loud. You sounded terrified." His voice weakened again. "I take it he has never locked you up like this before." The Hexcore's spinning slowed a little. "It seems we have both caused each other quite a bit of trouble." The Hexcore's humming softened again. "I think you may have been responding to my words, but I cannot hear you. The case has severed our connection. It is quite odd to not hear you commentating on everything in my head." He managed the joke with a small grin. The Hexcore bumped the glass again. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He glanced to the side. The maple pecan plait was still in its box. It was likely the only food left in the lab at the moment, but Viktor didn't want it. They'd gone to get it for the Hexcore, after all. His stomach seemed to squeeze, but he ignored it, keeping his head in his arm. He finally stretched out his cracked one, watching the cracks of gold shine in the purple-tinted light. In the glow, Viktor couldn't even make out the lavender shade that his skin had turned. He reached out, tracing his fingers over the gold cracks. "I've warmed up to these, I believe. They look quite nice. I wish they had not hurt so much, but they do... have a pleasing look about them. I am sure you are very proud." The Hexcore gave another spin. "I also wish it did not fall upon you to have to fix what he's done. Building me a flawed body... It feels like an insult, keeping my bad leg." He raised his arm, looking it over. "And to consolidate the marks left from the Arcane. From the Binds. He truly was careless, wasn't he? He said he did not even think twice about Binding me. He'd allegedly panicked when he'd done it. How believable does that sound?" A flatness crept into his tone and the Hexcore hummed again. "...I have spent years by his side. Admittedly, it was mostly unwilling, but I... grew used to company." Viktor's arm fell against the desk again. He really didn't feel like he had any energy. His throat was dry. Jayce always kept water in the lab, but Viktor didn't want it. He inhaled shakily and let it out in just as trembling of a breath. Three seconds of controlled breathing. Three seconds of momentary pulsing vision. Viktor lifted his head slightly before reaching out. He dragged Silco's messily folded coat over before resting his head on it. Cigar smoke and Shimmer. It was familiar. Something familiar in a hostile environment. Viktor shakily raised an arm, holding his head as he buried it against his wrist. He felt like he was going to cry again and it wasn't from anything he'd mentioned before. No, it was something deeper and much, much more horrifying. Something he found he hated about himself. Tears finally ran down his face as he squeezed his eyes shut. When Jayce had grabbed him, manhandled him down against the table and stared at him with those furious eyes, something deep, deep down in Viktor had... stirred. And he hated it. He hated it. Why had he felt like that?? Through his fear and pain and panic... excitement. A... thrill, as Jayce liked to call it. He raised his other arm before burying his head in both of his hands. "I believe I may be a freak of some regard." He finally spoke aloud. "I think... I may be... something dirty." His voice choked up and he squeezed his eyes shut. The Hexcore was instantly heard bumping against the case agitatedly again. Viktor shook his head, glancing at it. "When he threw me down against the table... and he so very clearly wanted to cause me harm... there was... something strange. A thrill... of being caught." The Hexcore went back to quiet floating. More tears welled in Viktor's eyes. "You said something about that before. How I desired for him to hunt me down. I thought you were just trying to get under my skin and irritate me. But... you have never lied to me. And now I am forced to face it." Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, raising his hand and resting his forehead against it. "I... am truly something pathetic. To think that way about a man who has hurt me so deeply." His voice strained. "That fear took my breath away. Good gods..." He couldn't help the hiccup that escaped his throat. He buried his head down into his arms, his hands tightly gripping his hair. The Hexcore was heard bumping against the glass again. Viktor managed a weak laugh. "I am... so pleased that it only took me turning into something he despises for this realization to happen." His tone was flat and shaking. "...I was top of my classes once upon a time." Viktor glanced back over at the Hexcore before raising his hand resting it against the glass again. "For once, I feel as if you are actually listening to me. It is quite rare." The Hexcore zapped at his hand again. "I apologize for not being able to feed you the plait before he locked you away. I know you were excited about it. I was... admittedly curious as well as to how you would like it. Maybe I can convince him to give it to you before he smashes my skull in. Or before he dismembers me. Maybe removes all the organs he placed inside. Pulls me apart with his bare hands." Viktor felt so defeated. "Before he does all those things he wanted... Or maybe I'll starve first." The Resolve Rune on his shoulder was just barely giving him enough energy to continue speaking. "I think... it would be a mercy either way." The Hexcore didn't seem to like him talking like that at all and its next bump against the case made it rattle just a little. Viktor sighed heavily. "It's nice to be able to say the things I want without you interrupting." He finally stated. The Hexcore buzzed indignantly. Viktor stared at it before he moved over. He leaned his shoulder and head against the side of the case, closing his eyes. That humming felt like it was in his head again, bringing him temporary comfort. He could feel that tingling of electricity and he glanced over, watching the Hexcore settled from its hovering state. "...Thank you for listening." The Hexcore didn't seem to respond, but Viktor didn't need it to. He felt crushed. He felt dirty and freakish. He felt so sore and his chest hurt so much. Viktor's fingers curled against the desk. He glanced over towards the window. The moon was covered tonight. He closed his eyes, imagining the bright, full moon he'd seen for those three seconds. Those three seconds of the most peace he'd ever felt before he hadn't felt anything at all.
The time of death was 11:42 PM.
Viktor's eyes slipped shut.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor didn't remember moving back to the window seat, but next thing he knew, he was there. He had Silco's coat tucked under his shoulder and his head resting against a pillow. He was buried under several blankets, in half-asleep state. It was comatose and comfortable. He was pulled out of it by the sound of the door opening. He didn't lift his head. He wasn't quite sure if he could. Someone was standing in front of him. Two people. "Isn't that a pretty thing?" Viktor felt a cold rush through his body. That wasn't Jayce. He furrowed his brow and tried to push himself up. Instantly, he inhaled sharply as he felt something sharp press against his neck, forcing him back down. "You have Silco's favor. Got a Councilor's favor. Greedy fucking thing, aren't you?" The knife slid over his Adam's apple and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "Open your fucking eyes." Viktor managed to do so. "Hey, this thing is freaking out over here." The second voice made his eyes drift past the first blurry figure. He could see the Hexcore spinning wildly as it propelled itself around the case. "We should get out of here fast. The boss said dead or alive. You wanna flip a coin?" Viktor had a vague idea of who these people were. It wasn't uncommon knowledge that Silco was a chem-baron. However, he was the most dangerous. The apex predator. There were other chem-barons. All vying to take his place at the top. He wondered which chem-baron it was. He froze up as the blankets were yanked off of him. The knife was irregularly shaped. He could feel that now. His fingers gave a small twitch. He froze up as he felt the knife move up to his lips as a hand pinned down his shoulder. It hooked on his upper lip and gave a small flick. Viktor had to bite back his noise as he felt his lip cut open. Instantly, he could feel the blue blood start to stain his lips. "Hey, he bleeds blue." The man holding the knife sounded fascinated. The knife traced Viktor's jawline next. His lip stung and he squeezed one of his eyes shut. "I said keep them open." Viktor flinched as there was a slice. It was so close to his eye that he momentarily thought it had been gotten. His breath escaped him in a shaking gasp. He could feel the pillow beneath his head start to go wet. He let out a bubbling breath through the blood in his parted lips. He heard the other voice call out impatiently, asking if the first was going to kill him or not. "Give me a second. He's kinda interesting. What's he doing up in a Councilor's personal lab anyway?? Did the boss ever say anything about that??" "We know that Silco favors him. And that's all we need to know. That's all we're paid to know." The other voice replied firmly. The first man muttered that he should get the stick out of his ass. That knife traced over Viktor's jawline before moving back down his throat. The man tipped his head before loving the knife down further. Viktor froze up, feeling the front of the shirt starting to rip open. What was he doing?? What was he doing?? Viktor's hands twitched again, curling into the cushion. He could only hear rattling from the direction of the desk. The hand holding the knife was calloused, but the man sounded young. Viktor wanted to carve those callouses straight out of his skin. They were disgusting. Filthy. He couldn't stand it. He couldn't stand this. His eyes trailed upwards. The man's neck was exposed and he wore a deep-cut shirt. His blood would look incredible painting that open space and having the shirt frame it like a picture. Viktor paused. He met the man's eyes before slowly parting his lips. He carefully pushed himself up and the ripped shirt hung off his shoulder as he controlled his breath. He could still feel the blade against his throat. The man seemed to be regarding him with new interest now. Viktor let out a shaky exhale and slowly opened his legs. An immediate smile tugged at the side of the man's lips. "...Maybe this is why Silco and that Councilor like him so much. You seeing this?" That knife drew under his chin, tipping it upwards as the man stepped closer. He leaned down and Viktor could feel his hand uncomfortably high on his thigh. He wanted to take it off his body. He wanted to dismember him. He wanted to see just how much Shimmer was in this man's blood and he wanted to look at his gouged out eyes under a microscope. His breathing had sped up and he watched as the knife hooked on the waistband of his pants. "You're a pretty thing, aren't you?" Viktor glanced up at him. He'd clenched his jaw so hard that it was trembling and he could feel his blue blood staining his lips and chin. He could feel the knife starting to tear at the fabric of the pants and his vision blurred. Something was glowing on his chest. On his wrists. His blue blood was running down his chin and he could only think about just how fucking badly... he wanted to make... purple. His vision left him in a snap. It was dark. It was quiet. Viktor wasn't even sure of where he was. He couldn't feel anything at all. Sitting on his knees in an endless, white expanse. Swirls of teals, blues and pinks were seen, though only vaguely moving around like he was spinning on an axis. It was so quiet here. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds to study. Three seconds of calmness. Three seconds before felt that first taste of iron run down his throat. "Viktor, I said DROP IT!!" Jayce's bark suddenly cut through the air like a knife and Viktor startled. He was met with a warbling that was all but sinister and it seemed like he was staring straight into what appeared to be a Hex Gemstone. Energy had started to gather above it, framed by four identical sections. This... His eyes trailed past it. Hammer. This must've been the giant hammer Sevika had been telling him about. Jayce's eyes were cold on the other end. There was something else. He was guarded. Fearful. Why...? Viktor paused and raised a shaking hand to his mouth, his lips still parted. Why did he taste metal?? "Viktor. Drop the fucking knife." The statement made him stare and Viktor became aware of something slipping from his fingers on his other hand before clattering to the floor. His heart was absolutely racing. Jayce didn't seem to be lowering the hammer and Viktor could feel the energy around them being pulled towards it. That was a high-energy beam. He recognized the build from one of Jayce's journals. Was Jayce going to shoot him? His eyes trailed up to meet Jayce's again. The coldness was slowly becoming replaced with uncertainty. "Look at me." Jayce's voice made him snap back to attention. Jayce furrowed his brow before holding up a hand. "Follow." Viktor did so, his eyes fixed on Jayce's hand as he moved it back and forth. How could he hold that hammer up with one hand so effortlessly?? It was wrong. It all felt wrong. The ball of energy suddenly popped and Viktor watched as the four sections of the hammer slammed shut. Jayce slowly lowered it to the ground, it making a clanking noise against the floor. "Viktor." Jayce's voice was guarded. Why was he talking like that?? Viktor's eyes finally came into focus. There was something on the wall behind Jayce. Viktor felt his body lock up. There was a red splatter on the wall that even made its way up onto the ceiling. He shakily raised his arms and his eyes fell on red-stained fingers. Not just fingers. Hands. Wrists. Arms. His arms were stained almost up to his shoulders and he could see it clumped under his nails. He kept his lips parted and he raised a hand to them again. It was all over the lower half of his face. Something was. His eyes moved back down. The Runes on his wrists were glowing. They burned so much. The one on his chest was doing the same. His breathing had started to speed up and he lifted his head, staring at Jayce. Jayce furrowed his brow as he looked him over. Viktor paused and took a step back. His foot suddenly hit something and he started to turn back before nearly having a heart attack as Jayce yelled. "DON'T!" Viktor froze up like a deer, his eyes wide. "Don't turn around. Don't move a muscle." Jayce's voice was firm and shaky. He was... He was so, so pale. Viktor could only stare before his gaze lowered to the floor. The wood... was stained. His arms hung limply at his sides and he could see the knife he'd dropped. It was soaked up to the handle. There was a stinging in the side of his neck and he inhaled shakily. It felt like something was stuck between his neck and shoulder. He furrowed his brow and he found it extremely difficult to swallow. He reached up and he paused as he felt a handle. Was... something sticking out of his neck?? Why couldn't he feel it?? Those two men were nowhere to be found, at least in front of him. Viktor had a good feeling they might've been behind him. "...Jayce." He said the other's name quietly, watching him tense up. Jayce looked like he was going to be sick and Viktor could relate. He shakily raised a hand up to his exposed chest, placing it over the glowing Binding Rune. Why did it... hurt so bad?? "Jayce, I think something is wrong with me." He sounded so unsure, yet so calm that it seemed to only increase Jayce's wariness. He had his hand on the handle of his hammer again. It was very obvious to Viktor that Jayce was trying his best to look threatening and not like he was three seconds from hurling at the sight of him. Viktor would understand if he did. He wanted to be sick too. He stretched up his arm to stare at the glowing Rune in his wrist. He could feel tears already welling in his eyes. "...I think I just hurt someone." He managed in a quiet, terrified voice. Tears finally erupted down his face. "I-I t-truly think I may have just..." He trailed off, inhaling shakily. He couldn't back up anymore than this, knowing he would step on whatever was behind him. It didn't want him to stop. No, no, Viktor should've picked up the knife. He should've peeled Jayce's skin and cut off his muscles in pieces and bits. If he didn't bleed out first, Viktor wanted Jayce to watch him pull out his heart. The thoughts instantly frightened Viktor again. He glanced to the side. They were still in the lab. The door to the hallway was shut. It was just him and Jayce. Just from what Viktor could see out of the corner of his eye, the entire wall near the door seemed to be sprayed with red from top to bottom. He glanced to the other side, where the Hexcore was seen bumping itself behind its bloody glass case. Viktor... really didn't feel good. He couldn't stop the tears now and a shaking hiccup left him. His wrists burned. His chest burned. He squeezed his eyes shut as he heard that hammer open again. He could feel those violent thoughts and urges clawing their way up. Clawing through his head and up his throat.Viktor jerked awake in a cold sweat. He yanked himself back so hard from where he was leaning against the Hexcore's case that he almost fell out of his stool. He could only stare forward for a moment before quickly lifting his hands. They were clean. His arms were clean. The Runes weren't glowing. Viktor could only drag in shaking breaths before hugging himself. He hadn't had such a nightmare before and he could already feel the tears running down his face. His body was shaking and he couldn't even process the morning sun stretching through the windows. He was shaking so badly that he couldn't even grab his cane. It dropped to the floor and Viktor only slammed his fist weakly into the table with a swear. There was a soft clink and he looked over at where the Hexcore was bumping itself against the glass. Viktor could only stare. Those eyes. Those eyes had looked at him so coldly. Like a stranger. Like they were strangers. Viktor finally pushed himself backwards, stiffness shooting up his leg. The stool was knocked to the ground with a loud clatter. One of Viktor's hands moved from his arm to his head. He could still taste metal in his mouth. He swore, he swore he could feel it on his chin. Viktor's vision blurred. He swore he heard the door open behind him and Jayce's name left his throat in a strangled breath. All he could taste was red. All he could see was red. All he could feel. All he could feel, all he could feel was that grime under his nails. The pieces. The pieces, the pieces. "Jayce, I cannot do it. I cannot do it." His whispering became frantic and shaky. "I can't. I can't do this." Viktor's voice was weakening. His whole body was weakening. He didn't even know if it was Jayce. He didn't care. "G-Gods..." He let out a much louder hiccup this time. I think I'm going to be sick." His voice was barely a whisper. "I am going to be sick." Three seconds of silence. Three seconds before his breathing sped up. Three seconds and Viktor made good on his word.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Due to his lack of eating for two days now, the only thing Viktor could do was cough up whatever the equivalent of his stomach acid was. It was clear and gave off no smell, only darkening the wood in front of him. His hands curled into the ground. He didn't hear anything behind him at first and he finally sat back on his knees, burying his face in his hand. There were footsteps and Viktor startled as someone sat crisscross behind him, their back leaned against his. Broad shoulders. Tan hands were curled into the wooden floorboards as well. Viktor leaned back against Jayce hesitantly. The other wouldn't speak and panic flared in Viktor's chest again. "A-Are you real??" He blurted out, feeling the other jump a little. "Are you actually here this time?? Are you real? I do not think I can handle anymore of these... these feelings. These visions. These urges. I cannot grow accustomed to them. I cannot fight them like you can. I... am not strong enough for that. It is not in my nature." Viktor's voice was weak as he broke down in admittance. It hurt his pride and it sent his heart into a pounding ache. There was silence and only more panic flared in Viktor's chest. "Why won't you say anything??"He finally heard Jayce give a heavy sigh behind him and, for a moment, Viktor was downright insulted. Was he bothering him?? Of course, he wouldn't want to interrupt the perfect Councilor's day with his silly hysterics, would he?? His throat instantly tightened in anger and he fell completely quiet. "I had thought being with you for a while would've prepared me for such things, but, uh... I still got sick. There are bodies littering the Bridge of Progress. A absolute massacre committed by Zaunites." Jayce's voice was quiet. He still sounded slightly haunted and Viktor's shoulders sank. He didn't think Jayce had been listening to him at all. What did he want from him?? Sympathy that Jayce had to see dead bodies? He'd dug up Viktor's grave before. Maybe seeing fresh corpses was too much for his poor stomach. Viktor was sick of him. He pulled away from Jayce, pushing himself to his feet. He had snagged his cane, using it to stand as he wiped his face and composed himself quietly. He couldn't let himself show hysterics like that again. He couldn't be vulnerable like that in front of someone who didn't care. Why did he keep pouring his heart out like that? He glanced up before moving forward with a soft tap of his cane. He stretched out a hand, placing it on the glass case. "Good morning." He murmured with a slight tremble. The Hexcore bumped against where his hand was, electricity felt tingling his palm. Viktor sighed and turned away. He made his way back to his window seat, sliding himself down to sit on the cushions. "And what do you expect me to say, Jayce? Are you implying I am guilty by association for simply having Zaunite blood? Are you implying I must have known about this because, of course, every Zaunite would know about the plans of others in a city of hundreds. I did think you were smarter than that." Viktor propped his cane against the seat next to him. He continued to stare out the window at the citizens moving below and enjoying the morning air. "Or do you want sympathy? Do you want me to tell you that you are a poor thing to see fresh corpses for the first time? I do suppose you've only seen a decomposed one before." He gave a small sigh as he heard Jayce scoff and get up from the floor. He waved his hand dismissively. "Yes, I am still here. As is the Hexcore. You may leave now, knowing that we can't escape." He figured he may as well rush that. "Certainly, with this tragedy, the Council has to tend to the aftermath. Which includes you." Viktor turned his head back slightly. "Councilor." The way he said it was like salt to a wound. Three seconds of silence felt like hours."...When you came to my Progress Day speech, it was the first time I'd ever seen you so delighted to see me. I couldn't even remember my lines for a moment." Jayce spoke quietly. Viktor stated in a shaky voice for him to stop talking. Jayce did not. "You looked at me with brightness and pride. Even after, you seemed so fascinated and impressed by my House Crest. By me." Jayce was heard moving closer. "And all I wanted... was just to be able to properly hold you. And that desire drove me absolutely mad. I had spent years perfecting the body. Matching it to your image. To your flaws. I... expected your look of betrayal and I knew you would need time to get used to it. I just didn't expect you to immediately be whisked back to the undercity with it. I didn't expect to have to resort to drastic measures to get you to come back and I especially did not expect you to return to me wearing his clothes so comfortably." Jayce kept his tone quiet, but Viktor heard him stop a little ways away. "How did he touch you?" The question made Viktor pause and he quickly turned to look back at Jayce with wide eyes. "H-He never touched me intimately. Just an occasional hug or a tap on the shoulder. Jayce, you must get that notion out of your head. Silco and I are simply friends. N-Nothing more." Viktor couldn't believe him. Jayce's eyes were doubtful and his fists were clenched as he took a step forward. "And yet you keep taking that coat everywhere. Is it normal for friends to sleep with each other's clothes like that??" Jayce stared at him with narrowed eyes. Viktor clenched his jaw. "In Zaun, many share clothes, as they struggle to afford them. You grew up in Piltover. Of course you wouldn't understand this." His fingers dug into the blankets beneath him. "I keep it close because it is something familiar. Something that reminds me of when I was content and, dare I even say, happy." Jayce didn't seem to like this answer at all and he moved forward, towering over Viktor. "Oh, I bet he made you happy. I bet he was thrilled when you came back with a proper body. I bet he was thrilled when he saw those Runes that I added. And I bet you milked him dry with them." Jayce's voice was scathing, but the words sent a shocked redness to Viktor's face. "He seems like he'd be into younger types." Instantly, Viktor snapped at him again. "Except I am not younger and you know this as well as I! Silco and I got along because we are of the same age, or around it. I just cannot physically show it! You know that! Stop speaking like you know how we were! He is my friend. He supported me every time you hurt me. They have been there for me longer than anyone else. A-And I miss them." Viktor's voice strained. This was... It was upsetting. "...And what was the purpose behind those Runes, Jayce?? Clearly you had a plan. W-Were you going to lay hands on me against my wishes??" His voice became strangled and tight with fear. For once, he saw Jayce's eyes widen and the other looked shocked. "No!" He instantly exclaimed, straightening up and staring down at Viktor, seeming appalled he would even suggest it. "Not even in my darkest thoughts would I do that! You think so lowly of me??" "Of course I do, Jayce. You've proven to me time and time again that you'll sink as low as you want." Viktor turned his head away. While he was still upset with him, there was a fresh rush of pure relief that flooded his body at Jayce's visible disgust at the mere idea he would force Viktor like that. Viktor felt tears rising to his eyes again, but he kept them back. "...You tried to bash my head in yesterday. Can you blame me for believing you would do worse?" "I wasn't actually going to do it!! It was just to scare you!" Jayce stated, his brow furrowed. "Because you left. You left and you took the Hexcore with you! You left without my permission, my knowledge, and with one of my most important creations!" Jayce scoffed at him, shaking his head like he was beyond disappointed. "And I know you tried to scurry back to Zaun. You just got cold feet about it." Viktor stated that he hadn't. That he'd just gone to the bakery and nowhere else. Jayce stared at him with such a doubtful and flat look that Viktor felt anger bubble in his chest again. "You could ask it yourself if you hadn't caged it away!" Viktor threw his hand out in the direction of the desk, frustrated. "How could you do that?? Did you not hear how scared it was??" Viktor's voice strained and Jayce sighed, saying that he had. "That thing's got you wrapped around its finger. Not me. I've been studying it for a while. The magic that makes it up. The Hexcore has a malicious tendency to it. A manipulative one. And you, with your big, open heart, are falling right into its trap." Jayce stated firmly. He put a hand on his chest. "But not me." Viktor could only stare at him. Yes, the Hexcore was stubborn and had a hell of an attitude, but there was nothing to suggest it was malevolent of any sort. "I see that look. You don't believe me, but you will. That thing can't be trusted. And once I'm done learning everything I can from it, I'll destroy it." Panic erupted in Viktor's chest and he looked over at the case, where the Hexcore seeming like it was freaking out inside. Viktor had to switch topics back before he got violently upset. "R-Regardless, all I did was walk to the bakery and come back. I did not travel elsewhere, nor did I have any plans to!" He stated firmly. "Do not think I am so ignorant to try and run again when you delivered such a threat to the people of Zaun." Viktor inhaled shakily. "I-I don't know when this foul hatred of me came to exist, but you know that where we are now is all because of you. This was all your fault. You Binded me that night. Everything that has happened until now is your fault. Every bit of it!" Viktor practically spit the words at him. "You somehow managed to ruin a second life that I never asked for." "I don't hate you!" Jayce exclaimed. Viktor had to fight the urge to call him the nastiest thing he could think of. Maybe he shouldn't have said so much at once. Apparently Jayce was only capable of picking up on one thing. Viktor stared at him before crinkling his nose and letting out the most bitter laugh he could muster. What was his behavior if not hatred?? He stated that he did hate him. "I don't! That just isn't true! I told you, I wasn't actually going to hit you!""And that makes it better how?!" Viktor demanded, the tears he'd been trying to hold back finally springing to his eyes. "Maybe you're just too naïve to recognize it, but this behavior!! The way you act towards me and the things you say to me with such selfish conviction! You hate me, Jayce! You hate me so much that you don't even realize it! You just want me hurt and suffering by your hand and good gods! You did it!" Viktor had finally started yelling at him, Jayce clearly not taking that well of his scowl was any indication. "These Runes have been causing me anguish. I am losing my fucking mind! I am having nightmares and urges so violent that they cause me physical pain!! Last night, I dreamt I ripped two people apart with my bare hands!! I remember crying for three days just from being able to sleep again, so all this feels like now is some sick joke! I do not want to sleep! I do not want to eat! I do not want to drink!" He paused as Jayce furrowed his brow, asking when the last time he ate was. Viktor shook for a moment. Was he serious?? Was he actually serious?? "Jayce." Viktor's voice was quiet and furious. "Are you that stupid that you can't focus on more than one statement at a time?" He practically bristled as Jayce replied that he wasn't, but he only answered what he thought was the most pressing because Viktor always said so much at once. Viktor stared at him. "...This conversation is over." "You haven't answered me." Jayce's voice was firm and Viktor repeated that it was over. That he was finished talking to him because clearly nothing he said mattered enough to get through to him. "Viktor, I'm asking out of concern. When was the last time yo-" "Now you are not so concerned with that thought you have stubbornly planted in your mind that I was being intimate with one of my close friends?? Are you finished fantasizing about that?" Viktor asked bitterly. Jayce immediately narrowed his eyes, saying that he didn't fantasize about it. "You seemed quite ready to go into detail. It obviously took up quite a bit of your thoughts." He scoffed at him. "I do not know why I would have expected you to understand. You do not know what it is like to have friends. Only partners and acquaintances. You do not have a single real friend and it is quite obvious to me whenever you go down that envious path of questioning." Jayce clenched his jaw again. Viktor didn't back down from his gaze. "I could have been a good friend to you. At one point, I even believed I was." Viktor closed his eyes and took in a weak breath. "...How foolish I was."Jayce stared at him with an unreadable gaze before moving forward. Viktor startled as Jayce's hand balled in the front of his shirt and he heaved him up. "And you say I'm the one with the ego when you act so fucking high and mighty all the time?? When everyone you meet always seems to fucking love you and not just because they're trying to get in your pants. What's that like, Viktor, to have such a luxury?? To not have twisted thoughts clawing constantly at the back of your mind and knowing that if you step too far out of line just one time, it is over for you. That if you let your guard down and show your true face one time, it's over. What is that like?? To be able to wear your emotions so openly?? To actually create healthy connections with people?? I wouldn't know because I have been wrestling with these thoughts my whole fucking life." Viktor inhaled shakily. Jayce had slightly lifted him so only his toes were still touching the floor. He shakily reached up, grabbing Jayce's arm and stating for Jayce to let him go. "No. No, I am done letting you go. I have you." Viktor's body froze up and his heart was pounding. Just to hear Jayce say it. He felt something stir inside of him and it was accompanied by a burst of shame and self-loathing. He could feel that excitement deep in his chest. Right up against his spine and making it quiver. He began to squirm around, tugging at Jayce's arm. Jayce still wouldn't put him down. "And you were never going to be my friend, Viktor. I may not have had any, but I know for certain that friends don't think about each other the way I think about you." Viktor could feel the tears in his eyes again as he shivered. "I'm done chasing you and you're done running. It's over. You're caught." Good gods. Viktor only faintly parted his lips to control his shaky exhale. Just to hear it. Just to hear Jayce say it. Just to see that look on him. He was caught. It made him... "Put me down, Jayce. Put me down." Viktor managed, his voice becoming firm. "Now!" He began to raise it. "JAYCE, PUT ME DOWN!!" Viktor fell back against the window seat as Jayce unceremoniously dropped him. Viktor dragged in shaky breaths, pushing himself backwards with his good leg until he was pressed up against the cold glass of the windows. Jayce scanned him over before letting out a heavy sigh and turning away, pinching the bridge of his nose. "...When was the last time you ate, Viktor?" The question was firm and exasperated. Viktor could only stare at him as he drew his knees up to his pounding chest. He finally replied that it had been over two days ago. "I'm going to bring you something to eat. Clearly, you're not interested in whatever pastry you brought back." Jayce sounded annoyed by that as he made a vague, frustrated gesture. "I expect you to eat what I bring." Viktor wrinkled his nose, his hands curling into fists on either side of himself. He finally gave a defeated shrug and he heard Jayce turn away. The door to the room was heard opening and shutting. "Hah..." Viktor let out the shaky noise of excitement, having been holding it in. He was a freak. He was a freak. He was filthy. He was dirty. He was stupid, to top it all off. He buried his face in his hands, trying to control his breathing again. Jayce didn't get it. He really didn't understand a damn thing and Viktor had no idea how to get through to him. Tears ran down his face again. Viktor glanced up at the Hexcore. It was jittering in place. "I-I am just shaken. I will be alright." He called out to it. That seemed to alleviate some of its tension. Viktor's eyes moved back to the blankets beneath him and he squeezed them shut, one hand pressed firmly to his chest like that was going to do anything to soothe his aching heart.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor stared down at the bowl quietly. It was some kind of meat stew and, admittedly, it smelled incredible. But he didn't want it. He kept a blanket wrapped over his shoulders as it sat in front of him on his window seat. He was sitting crisscross. Finally, he gave a heavy sigh through his nose. He glanced up. Why was Jayce still here?? Didn't he have a Council meeting? Didn't he have duties to fulfill, especially with the mess at the Bridge? Jayce glanced up at him from the desk. His coat was off and he had his feet propped up on the desk, the chair tipped slightly backwards. He had his newest journal in his hand. Viktor hoped he fell over. It looked like Mel had bandaged his hand again, along with new ones for his knuckles. To his surprise, Jayce actually answered his unspoken questions. "I told them I have pressing business to attend to in the lab. The Professor already prepped me on the questions for the situation and I gave him my written votes. He'll apply them." Jayce replied, his gaze moving back to his journal. "So I'm not leaving. And there is especially no chance of me leaving until you eat that." He gestured to the bowl and Viktor's grip tightened on the blanket. "We're all stubborn in this room. This can last as long as it has to." Jayce stated casually, tipping his head as he seemed scribble into his journal. Viktor wrinkled his nose in displeasure. His gaze moved back down to the stew. He really wasn't sure he even wanted to try eating anything, let alone something this hearty. What if it just came right back up?? He hesitated before his hand stretched out. He nudged the spoon, listening to it scrape along the side of the bowl. He heard Jayce pause just for a moment, but the other didn't turn his head to look at him. Viktor finally took the spoon into his fingers, scooping up a small bit of the stew. He raised it to his lips, though he still hesitated. Finally, he opened up and took the bite into his mouth. He paused as he chewed the piece of meat that he'd scooped up. It was soft and flavorful. It was... delicious. Viktor stared at it quietly as he swallowed. He started to eat a little more, taking bigger spoonfuls. However, if Jayce even dared to make any kind of cocky comment or gave him any kind of smug look, Viktor would stop immediately and he wouldn't touch this bowl again. He finally ate enough of it that he could pull the bowl into his lap. The stew felt warm in his stomach. The spoon was soon heard scraping along the bottom and Viktor swallowed the last bite, breathing shakily. He... had just... devoured that. He felt embarrassment rush over his face. Had he really been that starving?? Viktor shakily set the bowl to the side, scooping up the napkin that had been beneath it. He wiped his mouth before closing his eyes and taking a few more moments to breathe. Three seconds to breathe. Three seconds to focus on that warmth in his belly. Three seconds to pull the blanket tighter. "Do you feel better now?" Jayce's voice was quiet and Viktor opened his eyes. His tone wasn't mocking. Jayce was looking over at him, scanning him over. "If you want more, I can get it." Viktor shook his head, though he wouldn't reply out loud. He hadn't spoken a word to Jayce in hours, only communicating through gestures. Jayce continued to read his face embarrassingly well. "...You want more." Viktor shot him a slightly unamused glare. "If you just ask, I can go get more." Viktor did want more, but he would rather break every bone in his body before asking. His eyes lowered back down to the cushions. Jayce rolled his eyes. Behind him, the Hexcore was spinning in place. It had shied away from Jayce every time he'd reached out to the case, likely still very upset with him for putting it in there in the first place. Viktor sat quietly. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Jayce glanced over at him again. It seemed like he was becoming irritated with him again. "...You should take a shower." The statement made Viktor glance up. For a moment, he was slightly insulted. Was Jayce saying he smelled? That he was unclean? There wasn't... He was slightly confused. His body didn't smell and his hair didn't seem capable of becoming greasy. He raised a brow at Jayce. "You want me to leave you alone for a bit? Go take a shower." He gestured to the side room. "I'll bring you clothes." Viktor would've thought Jayce wanted him to use the ones on the cabinets. He hesitated before slipping the blanket off his shoulder. He slid off the window seat, using his cane to stand. His knee was still sore and his leg was stiff. He made his way over towards the bathroom before slipping inside. The door had no lock, but Viktor was more than glad to just have one between them. He reached up and his hands shook as they settled on the first button. In his dream, that knife had ripped through his shirt with almost no resistance and it had felt so real that Viktor had genuinely believed he was going to see nothing but darkness a second time. And, to keep himself alive... Viktor felt shame flood his chest and cause a lump to rise in his throat. He'd really been about to resort to that? He finally undid the first button. It was a deep fear he'd always had, working so closely with Silco. That another chem-baron would have the confidence to use Viktor against him. It was still something Viktor was afraid of. He undid the last button on the shirt before sliding it off and working on the pants. Viktor stripped himself down, but as he moved over to the shower and figured out how to turn it on, his gaze kept drifting back to the shirt. Even when Jayce had grabbed him earlier, he still refused to touch his body. He'd put extra effort into making sure he was only holding Viktor by his clothes. Viktor's hands slid up to his shoulders as he listened to the pattering of the water. He held them tightly. He... was a freak. The excitement that had crawled up his spine when Jayce had said he was caught. With such a piercing look as well. He was right. Viktor was caught. He really, really was. He pulled one of his hands from his shoulders and buried his face in it. What was wrong with him?? Was it a result of the Runes?? The Hexcore hadn't told him that until he had the body. Viktor wasn't sure. The Binding Runes caused violent thoughts and urges. The ones up his side were his senses. The ones on the other were likely for boosting his body's capabilities. Even the ones that Jayce had put... below. None of them had anything inherently to do with... that. It was just their implications that made Viktor angry with Jayce. He'd destroyed the Desire Rune before he'd even spoken to the Hexcore and he wasn't sure if the Domination Rune had affected him before he disfigured it. Viktor's shoulders scrunched and he hesitated before moving into the shower and pulling the curtain shut. The water pattered against his back like rain and Viktor closed his eyes, allowing himself to relax. He could still feel that tingling and he reached back. The Resolve Rune was still faintly fizzling. He really didn't know what it was doing. He didn't feel any different and he certainly didn't feel any better, on top of it. Resolve... loosely associated with determination. Willpower. Viktor didn't think it was doing a damn thing. He pulled his hand away from it before finally allowing both arms to just drop limply to his side as his synthetic hair dangled around his face in wet strands. He stood there for a few moments, just staring at the ground. Did he even need to shower? The door was heard opening and Viktor jumped, his breathing still shaky. He flinched as the bottle he'd run into fell off the side shelf and hit the floor of the shower with a loud noise. "Viktor? Are you alright in there?" Jayce's voice was quiet, yet slightly concerned. "I-I am fine. You... startled me." He managed in a quiet voice. He could hear Jayce physically pause and he knew it was because this was the first time he'd spoken to him in literal hours. He closed his eyes, struggling to control his breathing again. He had to quiet it down, not realizing how loud he was. Jayce was quiet for a moment before asking that he cleaned up after himself if he was going to be doing things like that in there. Things like...? It clicked for Viktor and he felt heat suddenly absolutely flush his face. "I am doing no such thing! It is just hard to breathe. I... have... too much on my mind." He paused when Jayce remained quiet. "...You said a shower would give me space away from you." He reminded him in a slightly scolding tone. "If you ever get too bothered while you're by yourself, I can bring you stuff to use." Jayce said, his tone assuring. Viktor heard the door shut, but he could also not process it due to all the heat that had just consumed his ears and face. Bring him stuff to use?? Did Jayce have those things or was he really going to go out and purchase them as a Councilor?? Viktor rested a hand against the tiled wall of the shower. Did Jayce really have no shame at all?? Good gods. And besides, Viktor didn't need those things! Any kind of pleasure at all had been nearly nonexistent in his head. Through the pain and the stress and the distractions he forced upon himself, pleasure was absolutely out of the question. Viktor hugged himself, his face still burning. He stretched his hand out to the haircare bottle he'd dropped. Once he'd finished cleaning himself, he washed out the product that he'd let sit in his hair. After another few moments of standing in the warm water and letting it run down his body, he finally turned the shower off. He slid open the curtain as he squeezed his hair out. Jayce had left a pile of folded clothes on the sink counter. Undergarments and all. Viktor gave a weak sigh through his nose. He pulled the towel off its bar and wrapped himself in it. He furrowed his brow. It smelled... like Jayce. Slightly of fire. Slightly of... ash. Viktor wasn't sure how to feel about it, opting to dry himself as quickly as possible. He hung the towel back up neatly before moving to the clothes. His hair was still damp, but he wouldn't try to pull it back yet, knowing it would be an absolute terror when it dried. Jayce had brought him a form-fitting pair of black slacks and a dark red, collared shirt with a muted gold vest. They were simple and plaintive. Viktor did miss the asymmetry of Zaun, but this would do. He got dressed, pulling everything into place before folding his dirty clothes and opening the door. He took his cane and started to move out. "You can leave those in the bathroom. I'll take care of them." Jayce spoke up from the desk, leaned over it as he studied his journal. He seemed to be taking notes on the Hexcore now. Viktor stared at him quietly. He placed the clothes back inside on the counter and turned off the light. He still didn't move from the doorway of the bathroom for a moment. How did Jayce seem so unbothered about their exchange of words?? He shakily raised a hand up to his navel, tipping his head. Jayce Talis was an unbelievably twisted and jealous man. If Viktor could have somehow sensed that during their first meeting on that ledge... He would've let him drop. Viktor's eyes fixed on the back of his head. "...What did you mean... 'the way I think about you'?" Viktor's question was quiet and he almost made the mistake of asking a second one, but he shut his mouth. He didn't want Jayce to be able to avoid the first one. Jayce had stiffened and he asked if Viktor had been about to ask something else. "Not until you answer." Jayce gave a heavy sigh through his nose and turned, leaning back against the desk. He crossed his arms before asking what answer he was looking for. "Do not answer with a question. You know how to answer. Do it properly." Saying something like Jayce had in any other regard would've been a confession. But that hadn't felt like one at all. It had felt like more of a threat than anything. "...I don't think I would have such bloody fantasies about friends." Jayce said after a moment. Viktor had a feeling it wasn't just fantasies about hurt and blood, but sure. That half-assed answer would suffice for now. He... was willing to take a risk. Run an experiment. Test a hypothesis. He was a scientist, after all."This is... purely hypothetical, but... if Silco and I had been intimate... would you even do anything about it?" Viktor asked, watching as Jayce's body instantly locked up. Viktor knew Jayce was a horrible, horrible person. There was no way he had such self-control about this one thing when he'd already violated Viktor's body in every other way. Could Jayce really trust himself if Viktor poked at him? Viktor watched as Jayce's eyes narrowed. "Silco is an admirable man. He is willing to do the things you will not. He is willing to kill. He is willing to get his hands bloody. Perhaps not often, but certainly more than you." Viktor watched as Jayce's fingers dug into the desk on either side of him. Viktor glanced to the side as he leaned on his cane, giving a small shrug. "He would not be easily caught. His network stretches far across the city of Zaun and perhaps into Piltover as well. How would you feel if I'd... had relations with him?" Viktor glanced up and met his eyes. "Hypothetically, of course." Jayce's eyes were already scanning his over with some kind of desperation. He was trying to figure out if what Viktor was implying could be true and Viktor could see him fighting actively with the thoughts in his head. "You... are implying that he stained you." Jayce managed in a quiet, forcibly calm voice. "...Hypothetically." Viktor nodded. Jayce let out a soft breath. This felt dangerous. "I guess it would depend on the... the circumstances. Did you agree to it?" Viktor nodded. "Did he hurt you?" Viktor shook his head. Jayce's voice became slightly strangled. "...did you like it?" Viktor met his eyes, saying out loud that he very much had. Hypothetically. Jayce was furious. He would not let it show on his face for more than a second at a time, but he was livid. "Hypothetically, he would've been gentle with me. He would not have threatened me in any way, unspoken or not. He would not have continuously forced me into close proximity to him. I would've come to him on my own because I wanted to see him. And he certainly would not have tried anything with me without permission." Viktor stated, his voice becoming slightly cold. Jayce instantly replied that he never would've touched him without permission. That he never would've forced himself on Viktor. He did sound genuinely hurt. "And yet, you violated every other situation in regards to my body without my permission. Good to see you can draw a line about one thing." Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. "So, answer me, Jayce. How would that make you feel if someone else has... tasted me? How would it make you feel if I liked it?" Viktor had never been one for such dirty words and he was fighting everything he had to not just flush completely red all the way down to his neck. Not only was this dangerous, but it was also embarrassing. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes. Viktor wasn't going to remain patient and he sighed, assuming their conversation was over as he moved back towards the window seat. After a moment, he heard footsteps follow. They soon stopped near him, but not anywhere close. Viktor sat himself down, turning to look up at Jayce. The other looked viscerally upset. He looked like he was struggling and he turned away, tightly pinching the bridge of his nose again as he squeezed his eyes shut. "I think... I would wonder if I could make you feel better than he could..." Jayce's voice was strangled as he gave a vague, defeated wave of his hand. "...Hypothetically." "It would be a miracle if I ever let you near me again, Jayce, let alone for any kind of activity like that." Viktor replied, shooting a glance up at him. "Proper intimacy is built around trust..." Viktor looked him over. "I don't have to finish my statement for you to understand, do I?" Jayce's piercing, golden-brown eyes fixed on him. To be honest, Viktor was extremely impressed. Jayce wasn't breaking, despite his obvious upset. Despite the fact that he so clearly wanted to, it seemed he was firm on this one thing. Viktor sighed quietly through his nose. He pulled his cane up, resting it along his lap. "Perhaps once upon a time, I would've considered that... had you continued getting better. Maybe I would've even considered something like it when I came to your speech. Maybe if you hadn't betrayed my trust and violated my spectral body to force me into a new one. Which you also carved Runes into that would affect me against my will." Viktor's eyes stayed on his. "Maybe then." Jayce stared at him before turning his head away. He turned his back to Viktor and Viktor's eyes lowered back down to the floor. "So... I hope you understand that his touches would always be welcomed compared to yours." Viktor finished. He felt so cold and ugly saying such mean things. "...Hypothetically." Jayce's shoulders were scrunched up. Viktor knew his words cut like a knife, but that was the idea. If Jayce still had a heart, he wanted to leave a hole in it almost as badly as he wanted to tear it from his body completely. "Jayce, I think I would like more stew, please." He lightened his tone and spoke politely. Jayce nodded, not looking at him as he turned on his heel and moved over to the door. When he left the room, the slam of the door made it slightly rattle, but it didn't jar Viktor at all. If anything, he was pleasantly surprised. Jayce did have self-control. He had a shocking amount of it as well, considering how visibly angry he'd been getting. Viktor hadn't thought it was possible. He felt a little shameful, silently apologizing to Silco for speaking about him like that, his face flushed in embarrassment. Considering how much Silco didn't like Jayce, Viktor was sure he would've allowed it anyway. Viktor watched as the rays of light slipped past him, casting his awkward, slanting shadow across the floor. He... He did want to apologize for upsetting Jayce that badly. Even after everything Jayce had done to him, Viktor felt that what he'd just done had been downright mean. He didn't want that. Viktor's fingers traced weakly over the cushions of the window seat. He was still hungry.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor didn't see Jayce again for a week. The bowl of stew had been left next to the door and his coat had been gone when Viktor had finally woken up. Throughout the week, food was left for him, along with clothes. On the fourth day, he'd received a box and, upon opening it, had become so flustered that he'd thrown all of it into the bathroom and avoided looking at it since. He still couldn't believe that Jayce would've brought him such things. He hoped he hadn't been seen purchasing them. Viktor was back at the Hexcore's case, furrowing his brow. Even if he unplugged the stand, it wouldn't affect the glass casing. The Hexcore would always watch and it gave constant acknowledgements, either to Viktor's efforts or just to let him know it could still hear him. Viktor had been teasing the idea of trying to break the glass, but nothing he had in here would do the job. Nothing that he would be able to lift, at least. Besides, what would Jayce do if he hadn't stepped foot in the room in days?? Stop him? Viktor had easily spent a whole day fiddling with the latches on the side of the casing to no avail. He'd even started to try and dent the lid, but he wasn't making any ground on that either. He sighed quietly as he sat in front of the case. He had his thumb tucked under his chin and his pointer finger curled against his lips as he tried to think. The Hexcore kept giving small spins inside, that seeming to be the only way it was keeping itself entertained besides silently interacting with Viktor. He glanced over towards his window seat again. Bowls, silverware and plates had accumulated in three stacks. Viktor started washing them in the bathroom sink so they wouldn't least be clean if he was ever able to bring them back. He furrowed his brow. He slipped off the stool before moving back to the piles with stiff hobbling. He scooped up a spoon, turning it in his hands so the blunt end was facing downwards. He glanced up at the case. Theoretically... Three steps back to the desk. He sat back down in his stool. He angled the bottom of the spoon down before slamming the blunt side into the glass connected to the metal bottom of the case. As expected, it did nothing, but Viktor wasn't only going to do it a few times. The desk gave slightly rhythmic rattles as Viktor continued to slam the end of the spoon into the one spot on the glass. Consistency and patience were key. It wasn't like Viktor had anything else to do or anywhere to be. He started hearing a faint chipping noise and he perked up a little. He continued to dig the blunt end into the same spot and he startled as there was a sharp noise. He stared at the crack that had jutted up from the mess he'd just beaten into the glass after what felt like an hour, at least. He focused on the crack, digging the blunt end of the spoon into that as well. More spiderwebbing started to appear across the case and Viktor kept his focus on the bottom. It took three more hits for the blunt end of the spoon to suddenly break into the case. It took three seconds before Viktor's body suddenly went rigid like he'd been electrocuted as his connection to the Hexcore came rocketing back like a bullet to the head. It took three seconds before he was being pulled into darkness again. Viktor was dropped into the purple-tinted place, his eyes wide and his body silhouetted. He pushed himself to his feet and before he could finish doing so, something dragged him into a hug from behind, warm arms wrapping over his shoulders. He gave a small jump of surprise before managing a weak laugh. He was a little distraught at the fact that it still had Jayce's form when he turned to look at it, but also... Viktor smiled. "It worked!" He exclaimed in hushed excitement. His arm literally ached from beating at the case for so long, but it had worked. The Hexcore dragged him into another hug. "Yes, I am here. Say something, won't you? This the quietest I have ever heard you! It is unlike you!" The Hexcore scanned him over with those swirling eyes and that familiar, choral voice pierced the air. Every voice within it spoke with the same feeling, but different volumes....I didn't think you would ever hear me again. I thought I was going to be trapped in that forever... Perpetually forced to listen to your problems.Viktor shot a look up at it before taking note of the slightly teasing grin that tugged at the side of its lips. He gave a playful scoff. The Hexcore moved back, but it seemed unwilling to let go of him completely. Viktor continued to hold its hand. The Hexcore's gaze finally dropped to the side.
I just wanted a pastry. I didn't think it would upset him so much that he'd cage me. He said he would never have to use that on me. He lied to me. This is the longest he's tasted so rotten and it's sickening. It tastes worse than ever.
The Hexcore sounded both confused and betrayed. "It was because of me, I'm sure. He did think I stole you and took you back to Zaun." Viktor said, looking it over quietly. The Hexcore did seem genuinely hurt by Jayce's entrapment, but it finally seemed to shake it off.
Is the pastry still here? Could you give it to me now?
Viktor raised a brow. "That thing is over a week old. It is likely stale and sticky." He stated flatly. He rolled his eyes as the Hexcore spoke again.
And your bones were dry and dusty. I think I can handle a stale pastry.
Viktor gave a quiet chuckle after a moment. "Good to see that your stubbornness has not been dampened." The Hexcore hummed.
Now that the case is broken, both connections have been reestablished. He likely knows that the case has been damaged. His mind is quite foggy with rot, so I can't quite tell where he's gone. He may start coming back.
"Then let him. It will take time for him to repair this damage and I have searched the whole lab. He does not have another one of these cases." Viktor assured the Hexcore. It looked him over before nodding in what seemed to be relief. It finally let go of his hands and Viktor was prepared this time. He managed to drop the spoon and grab the desk as he opened his eyes back in reality. He'd just kept himself from falling over and he gave a heavy sigh of relief. He reached out and snagged the pastry box that had sat untouched, pulling it back to him. He could hear that humming.
I don't care if it's stale or sticky, I have only tasted rot for days. It is disgusting and I cannot stand it.
"I know, I know. However, I have to make the hole big enough for it." Viktor slipped off the stool momentarily to grab the spoon again. He started to use the blunt side to crack away at the small hole. The entire case kept rattling, but the Hexcore spun around inside, seeming unbothered. Finally, Viktor managed to break out two more pieces and he flinched, reaching up and holding his aching forearm. He set the spoon down, squeezing his eyes shut. His shoulder hurt too.
You are in pain? How?
The Hexcore sounded confused and disbelieving. "I have been using an amount of strength I do not usually use, all while repeating a consistent motion. It... Ugh..." Viktor hissed through his teeth as he stretched his arm out in front of him. "My bones no longer crack to relieve pressure, yet he still implements a system that will leave me sore after tasks like this." Viktor felt it was surely personal. He finally reached out and snagged the box again, flipping open the lid. He wrinkled his nose. It was going to be a nightmare to pick this thing up. All the maple had soaked down into the plait. "I do hope... you have a way of consuming this that won't be an absolute mess." Viktor commented, glancing up at the Hexcore as he raised the plait from the box and showed off the numerous strands of maple that refused to break.
Just put it through. Hurry!
The Hexcore's numerous voice sounded excited and Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips. He certainly didn't like the stickiness on his hand, but he slipped the plait through the hole he'd made in the case, holding it up to the Hexcore. He jumped as he felt that violent tingling along his fingers as the Hexcore seemed to use its energy to pull the maple plait up. Viktor watched as the strands of syrup soon followed and the Hexcore was carefully deconstructing it. The maple strands seemed to orbit it, mimicking rings on a planet. In a way, it was somewhat pretty. Viktor started to pull his hand back before startling as the Hexcore snagged it with electricity. It spiraled over his fingers, though the Hexcore itself was keeping its distance and not letting any energy sink into his skin. He watched as it started to strip the stickiness from his hand before it finally released him. Viktor slowly pulled his hand out of the case, looking over his dry fingers in shock. The Hexcore seemed like it was greatly enjoying the plait, appearing like it was consuming every last strand of syrup that floated around its case. Finally, Viktor watched as the last strand fizzled away. The Hexcore was quiet for a few moments and Viktor tipped his head, leaning against the desk. He raised a brow, asking how it was. The Hexcore suddenly gave a low rumble that shook the case before speaking in what sounded like a very pleased tone.
It tastes like you.
The statement was simple, yet Viktor felt his ears slightly burn anyway. "Ah, you said you wanted to see if the tastes matched."
The tastes do match. I was correct. Isn't that impressive, identifying an item by taste before I've ever even laid eyes on it? I think so.
The Hexcore sounded proud of itself, giving small spins in its case. Viktor gave a quiet smile. "I suppose. If we ever get the chance again, I do think you should have the pleasure of a fresh one. The plait itself is not supposed to be soggy." Viktor rested his head against his hand. "It is quite relieving to be able to hear you again. As you would likely agree, hearing my own voice all the time is become tiresome."
I do agree. I would also not like to hear your voice all the time. However, I will make an exception, as it let me know you were still with me.
The Hexcore's cocky tone was hiding the concern beneath it and Viktor gave an exasperated smile. "Of course, thank you for your forgiveness." He responded dryly. He paused as the Hexcore seemed to think before it spoke again.
He is in a large room. He is sitting at a circular table with other people. His mind has cleared enough for me to see. He appears quite uncomfortable too. I believe he knows I am connected to him once again.
"He is attending a Council meeting." Viktor tipped his head against his hand. "How does he feel?"
Uncomfortable. Upset. Annoyed. That last conversation you had with him truly seemed to hurt him. He wishes to touch you so badly?
Viktor paused and his face went hot as he turned his head away. "I believe it may be more than that." He admitted quietly. "He wants me to trust him enough to show that kind of intimacy, but... How could I ever? After all he's done?" Viktor's eyes lowered to the desk.
Looking through your mind, you showed excitement upon his displays of aggression, in which he trapped you. I'm confused, since there was certainly no trust, but there was intimacy. Is that what you meant when you lamented about being dirty and freakish?
The Hexcore's voice softened on the last line, not seeming to even like saying it loud. Viktor hesitated before giving a small nod. You are afraid because you do not need trust for your intimacy with him. Not below a barely surface-level promise.
"...Must we speak of this? It is humiliating enough on its own." Viktor said quietly, his hands curled up tightly on the desk in front of him. "Tell me how he feels, please." He requested, glancing up at the Hexcore. It gave a rumbling hum as it spun in place. I believe you would be terrified of the majority of the things on his mind that concern you. However, it does seem he is extremely wounded by your words. He also felt that same excitement upon trapping you in his grasp, but he dismissed it as another violent urge. He is thinking of you now, though it is a rotten thought of you with the man I see often in your memories. "Ah, right." Viktor spoke quickly, looking aside. His shoulders sank. "Perhaps I shouldn't have pushed so far."
On the contrary, I don't think you've pushed far enough. He still sees you as something that simply belongs to him, similar to a book or a pair of shoes. He enjoys your company, yet he does not appreciate it. His jealousy brought forth words from him that he never would have said to you otherwise. Not the hateful ones either. You scared him when you said you were his friend.
Viktor paused. "I scared him?" He echoed quietly. "Because he's never had friends?" The Hexcore gave its quiet, multi-layered laugh. It sent him into quite a panic. He was worrying that, surely, friends did not think of each other in such ways. That they do not desire each other in the way he desires you. It terrified him because that is not how he sees you at all. Viktor felt his face flush as he listened to the Hexcore quietly. "...I shouldn't have pushed him. I said cruel things to him." He managed quietly.
Yes, he is still thinking about that. You certainly had some spice to you.
The Hexcore sounded amused and Viktor buried his face in his hands. He felt terrible. He felt awful, even. How could he say things like that to anyone?? Even if it was Jayce, it was... "I am not a cruel person. I do not know why I said those things. I shouldn't have." Viktor's voice shook a little. "He will likely do everything in his power to avoid me now." The Hexcore hummed quietly.
Perhaps not.
Viktor glanced up at it quietly. Jayce's words did still linger. That the Hexcore was malicious or manipulative. However, when it spoke again, he couldn't quite see it. All he heard was a soft mischievousness weaved through its many voices.
I may have an idea, but I need an answer first.
Viktor furrowed his brow and opened his mouth before going an ungodly shade of blue when the Hexcore spoke again.
That box you received and threw into that room over there. What is in it?
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
As it turned out, 'mischievous' might have been a bit of an understatement. The Hexcore's so-called idea was downright devious. Almost evil, at least in Viktor's eyes. He stared at it quietly, absolutely glowing blue from his ears to his shoulders. "Th-That is... H-He is in a Council meeting!! I will not be...!" Viktor covered his mouth, absolutely shocked. The Hexcore let out an exasperated scoff and he could imagine it rolling its eyes.
It is just a connection! It seems the meeting will be over soon as well. The connection should be dulled enough that he can still walk.
Viktor couldn't believe it. He had already been embarrassed enough by the Hexcore's curiosity about the box of... toys... that Jayce had dropped off to him. One of which was sitting on the desk in front of him. Viktor was furiously avoiding looking at it. "I-Is this not wrong?? I-I brought this over so you could see it, n-not so I could use it." He sputtered, giving himself turned away in the stool.
You'll just be using your mouth. It seems you've done that bef-
"Stop looking at my memories!" Viktor exclaimed, covering his flushed face. It was right. Viktor had done this before, but had certainly been a while. The Hexcore gave a dramatic groan, spinning in place. "I wouldn't want him to lose a position as a Councilor due to indecency!" He exclaimed, his eyes wide. The Hexcore rumbled again.
Why not? You've lost things because of him.
Viktor hesitated, his shoulders scrunched. Yes. Yes, he had lost so much because of Jayce. That was true. But this felt... He glanced at the false length sitting on the desk. The dying heat in his face instantly sprung back to life.
He has been avoiding this place for days. I believe he promised you that you two would speak of your Runes. Yet, he will not return to do so. The fastest way to call him back would be to ignite that jealousy, wouldn't it?
"He is going to be furious with you." Viktor said, glancing up at the Hexcore with flushed worry. The Hexcore didn't seem concerned at all. "What if he attempts to destroy you??"
A dangerous gamble, considering I am directly connected to his mind. How long do you think it will take him to come running back? There is ten minutes left in the meeting, based on his thoughts.
The Hexcore sounded nonchalant again. Viktor's face was absolutely burning and he buried the lower half of his face into his hands again as he glanced at the false length. He did have one more worry about the already troublesome situation and he didn't know if he wanted to vocalize it. The Hexcore buzzed, getting his attention.
You are worried... No, you are embarrassed. You do not wish for me to see you like this.
The Hexcore sounded curious as it combed Viktor's thoughts together. He finally managed a small nod. The Hexcore gave a quiet, haunting laugh.
Then I will not. I will temporarily transfer to be a passenger within his mind. However, I am not able to do so for long. You will have to convince him back quickly. Keep going as long as you can and remember you can stop at any time. You just need to do a well enough job to spark that jealousy. Make him think you are with me.
Viktor was slightly relieved at the Hexcore's immediate understanding of his privacy, but he was also so nervous, he was shaking. He... hadn't done this in a while. Granted, he would've dared called himself skilled before, but that had been over a decade ago. Not to mention, this plan was dangerous. Not just for the Hexcore, but for Jayce. What if he lost his position?? Why was... Viktor paused. Why was he so worried about that?? People losing things because of him had just never sat well with him. Even if they deserved it. "...I will do my best to stop him from destroying you, should he come back angered." Viktor said hesitantly. He was tying his hair back out of his face.
One worry at a time. Get him back here first. He promised you a conversation about those Runes and if it means they stop tormenting you, I suppose I can lend my help to make that conversation happen.
Viktor managed a small smile as he rolled his eyes. "Yes, your... generosity knows no bounds." Viktor joked softly. He heard the Hexcore give that warbling chuckle. All at once, he felt the connections open up. The purple glow of the Hexcore suddenly disappeared and the black sphere dropped to the bottom of the stand, seeming empty. There was a sparking feeling along Viktor's tongue and he crinkled his nose a little. He sat the false length up with trembling hands. This was... Good gods, he couldn't believe himself. He leaned forward, pressing his sparking tongue to the tip. He wouldn't exactly call what happened next favorable. He... was seeing through someone else's eyes, but he could feel the length in his hands and his body still sitting on the stool. His eyes roamed over the scene. There was muffled talking. The other Councilors. Jayce's eyes. Viktor glanced up at the clock in the room. Three minutes. Three minutes for him to work. He wasn't sure how dulled the Hexcore would make the connection, but he took a deep breath. He started at the base of the length before dragging his tongue slowly up the underside. He saw Jayce's hand instantly raise, likely to cover his mouth as a soft breath escaped him. He'd already been tense before Viktor had even opened the screen. Jayce's other hand visibly curled up against the table. Viktor was being careful. He gave slow licks up the side of the length before letting out a shaky, warm breath against the tip. Jayce's body gave a tremble and Viktor jumped, swearing he could feel the silicone length twitch in his hands. He could faintly hear Heimerdinger's voice, likely wrapping up the Council meeting. Jayce started to gather his things up before he nearly dropped all of it as Viktor gave the base of his length a squeeze. He licked right under the flared head, each lick getting further up until he pushed his tongue slightly into the tip. Both of Jayce's hands were on the table and he watched as Jayce quickly recovered, bidding the other Councilors farewell as they left the room. Mel approached him and Viktor furrowed his brow. He felt a little guilty about this, able to hear Mel and Jayce having a soft conversation. She seemed worried about him and Jayce had just started to respond before Viktor took the length into his throat. He saw Mel jump in surprise as Jayce quickly grabbed his things, seeming to give a rushed excuse before leaving the room. Viktor allowed him a moment's reprieve in order to get down the hall before he slid his tongue under the length and pulled it deeper, the walls of his throat spasming around it. He watched as Jayce quickly ducked behind a corner, nearly dropping his things as he covered his mouth again. Viktor felt his face heat up even worse as Jayce stared down at the twitching bulge in his pants. He heard him swear softly, sounding confused. He spoke in a soft voice, asking what the Hexcore had done. Viktor started to slide the length in and out of his throat and Jayce let out a stifled groan, his hips suddenly seeming to thrust forward. That perked Jayce up instantly. He heard him let out a shaking breath as he lost control of his hips temporarily. He was swearing softly, a stain already gathering ever so slightly on his pants. Viktor felt a shiver go down his body. He focused again, taking the length just a little deeper each time. Right. That was embarrassing. He had been good at this. Really good. And it appeared he hadn't lost his touch at all. He almost took the whole thing in to the base and he heard Jayce let out an absolutely shocked swear. He muttered that it couldn't possibly be that deep in before inhaling shakily as Viktor lightly pressed his teeth into the base to show him that it was, in fact, that deep. Jayce was already muttering to himself as his bulge twitched wildly. Viktor could feel the length he was holding doing the same. He pulled it out of his throat agonizingly slow and that seemed to finally bring Jayce to his knees. Viktor panted for a moment. Gods, he was drooling everywhere. He wiped his mouth in slight embarrassment. He knew Jayce was more than excited enough since he'd snatched control of his hips. Jayce was heard panting before he said Viktor's name in confusion. In response, Viktor licked another slow stripe up the underside of the length. There was a muffled thump, Jayce having fallen while he was trying to push himself up. He said Viktor's name again, sounding like he was starting to piece something together. And he didn't seem to like it. Viktor took it back into his throat and started to thrust the length again. He watched as Jayce seemed to uselessly hump against the carpeted floor of the side hallway. He let out a strangled, filthy noise, muffled beneath his hand. Viktor was fascinated, but he had to stop. He knew better than anyone that Jayce was excited out of his mind right now, but... He didn't want Jayce to be caught like this. He couldn't. He couldn't handle seeing Jayce get caught like this. He pulled the length from his throat again, panting shakily. "Ugh..." He tried to draw in breaths. He could see Jayce struggling to get up, absolutely breathless with excitement and confusion. Jayce laid himself back against the wall, asking in a furious hiss what the fuck Viktor and the Hexcore were doing as he undid his pants. That seemed to be enough. The vision closed and Viktor was rocketed back to the desk, leaned over it. Oh, gods... he wiped his mouth again. He quickly got up, stumbling a little as he brought the toy back towards the bathroom to clean it off.
I believe he'll be on his way here as soon as he's finished handling himself. I think it's impressive it took you less than four minutes to convince him.
"Please do not tell me that. I must reserve some dignity." Viktor's face was dark blue as he cleaned the toy in the sink. He cast it back into the box and cleaned his face next before moving from the bathroom with a hand covering his mouth. He could not believe himself. One, he couldn't believe he'd just done that. Two, he couldn't believe he was still able to do that, despite not having done so in over a decade and half. The purple glow had returned to the inside of that black sphere, the Hexcore returning to its hovering position. Viktor buried his face in his hands again. He was so embarrassed. He was so embarrassed that he couldn't believe it. There was an ache near his own hips, but nothing seemed like it had spurred. Seeing Jayce at his mercy had been exciting, but the risk he had took by having Jayce like that in public was... He actually wasn't sure he'd liked that very much at all. He'd just been worried about the other getting caught. "You didn't... see that...?" He spoke aloud, just wanting to make sure.
I could hear everything said. I had no way to feel or see.
"...Thank the gods." Viktor muttered, hiding his head in his arms again. The Hexcore hummed thoughtfully.
He folded much faster than I would've expected. Did you do something special?
"No, he... Jayce likes having... his body taken over like that..." Viktor mumbled, glancing up at the Hexcore. "When I was dead, he would ask me constantly to possess him. For a, uh, 'physical thrill'. Says the temporary lack of control makes him feel something." Viktor put the words in quotations. "I knew it would not take long on his end, I just did not think I was still... skilled enough to..." He trailed off, unable to find a good way to word it. "...make it happen." There was three seconds of silence before, regrettably, the Hexcore spoke again. It sounded amused.
You taste of liquid maple right now.
"Stop." Viktor immediately let out a muffled protest and he heard the Hexcore break out in that quiet, haunting laugh again.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Do you want to know what he tastes like right now?
The Hexcore's tone was teasing now that it had sensed Viktor had calmed down enough to handle it. Viktor paused and his cheeks went a little hot again. He glanced over and the Hexcore spun in place playfully.Apple cinnamon. He tasted of apples when he was feeling pleasure? Viktor was silent for a few moments. His brow furrowed. "When I was... in school, a friend and I would use cinnamon sugar apple slices as our... our peace offering whenever we fought. It was not a guarantee to end the fight, but... it meant we were ready to speak about it." The Hexcore was quiet for a few moments. However, when it spoke, Viktor had a feeling it had knew this already. How curious. Viktor scrunched up his shoulders quietly. It felt like there was a higher implication he couldn't understand. Jayce's pleasure tasted of his old peace offerings? Viktor's gaze drifted off to the side. Maybe that meant Jayce was open to speaking a little more when he was pleasured. He glanced over. "He's... taking a while to get here. Are you sure he has not gone elsewhere?" His hands were clasped nervously in front of him. The Hexcore was quiet as it spun.
No, he is on the way. I can... see his thoughts. You must've been quite incredible for him to be thinking that way. I am not sure if he is even angry anymore. He is... confused and frustrated.
Viktor's face flushed blue and he hid it again. "Please do not dwell on that. I have not... done something like that in many years." He was so ashamed and he heard the Hexcore speak.
Apologies. I will not look.
Viktor glanced up at it. He wasn't even sure if it was telling the truth or not, but just hearing words respecting his privacy meant the world to him. He rested his head in his arms, trying to clear the blue glow from his face.
He has entered the building.
The Hexcore spun in place and Viktor sat up. He hesitantly moved so his body would block the broken glass behind him as he sat back down on his stool.
You do not need to protect me, Viktor.
"He has already threatened to destroy you before. With the case broken, I don't want him to attack you." Viktor said quietly, keeping his eyes fixed on the door. They lowered before he turned in his chair to look back at the Hexcore. "You've become good company as of late."
You mean when I wasn't able to talk?
The statement sounded flat and it took Viktor by surprise. He started to finally laugh, shaking his head. "No, no. You can see my mind. You know what I mean." He teasingly scolded it, the Hexcore having broken out in its own choral, warbling laughter. Viktor's laughter died down as he heard the door open, turning to look at Jayce. The other was disheveled and he was holding his coat over his arm. He stared at them quietly and Viktor scrunched his shoulders up. He looked Jayce over before glancing away. "...Perhaps you should shower." He suggested quietly. Jayce only seemed speechless as he shut the door behind him. "What the fuck were you two doing??" He still sounded out of breath. Viktor jumped a little. The Hexcore suddenly warbled and he saw Jayce suddenly go dark red. "So it was you." He shot it a slight glare before his eyes moved to Viktor. "And how were you involved??" Viktor instantly averted his gaze and he hoped the Hexcore was not embarrassing him as he heard it warble again. Jayce was silent for a moment. "There is no fucking way that was your throat." He sounded absolutely dumbfounded and that bright blue glow suddenly ignited on Viktor's face. "Jayce, go shower!" He snapped in embarrassment, quickly making a shooing motion. "Now! G-Go!" The other jumped, seeming both confused and suspicious as he backed up. He had a more than obvious stain on his pants when he moved the coat away and he disappeared into the bathroom, shutting the door. Viktor was absolutely mortified. His heart was pounding and he covered his face again. He could hear the Hexcore laughing. "Why would you tell him that??" Viktor instantly stated in betrayal, his eyes wide.
It changes his taste back to the one I like when I tell him certain things. He's always tasted like this when he feels pleasured. Less so with partners than by his own hand. But right now? He tastes very good.
Viktor could only look away, covering the bottom half of his face. Even his ears were burning. Jayce didn't come out of the bathroom for at least an hour, Viktor only unwillingly knowing why through the Hexcore's curious commentary.
He is almost done, I believe. This should be his third time, I'm not sure why he keeps going. He tastes good, but his motivation is hidden from me.
"I... I do not have to know everything he is doing." Viktor stuttered quietly, his cheeks blue again. The Hexcore hummed.
I don't believe he is angry right now. He is confused and his thoughts are jumbled. He may become angry later, but it seems your best hope for civility is before he clears his head. You have an hour at most.
Viktor paused. He glanced back towards the bathroom and he curled his hands up a little. "I must speak to him now? What if he is still...?" His face hadn't calmed down from that blue tint. He'd let down his hair, keeping the hair tie on his wrist. The Hexcore rumbled.
I could attempt to subdue him by a much more... direct method, but I don't think you'd like it.
Viktor's shoulders were scrunched up as he replied that he likely wouldn't. He jumped as the Hexcore spun.
He just finished. Go now before he starts again. Shoo!
The Hexcore zapped at Viktor and he yelped as he got up from his stool. He was uncertain, taking his cane before moving over to the bathroom door. He hesitated. Three loud knocks. "Jayce?" There was a soft clatter from inside and Jayce responded that he needed a minute. He sounded out of breath. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and he glanced back at the spinning Hexcore. He turned back to the bathroom just as the door opened and he yelped as he was pulled inside. The door slammed shut and Viktor winced as he was thrown back against the wall, a shadow suddenly looking over him. Viktor met those golden-brown eyes with wide amber ones. Jayce was breathing heavily. His hair was wet and it was a mess compared to his usual neat style. He was in just a towel, though it looked like it had been wrapped around in a rush. "...Jayce?" Viktor's voice could barely leave his throat as he hugged his cane to the front of his chest. "Was that really you?? G-Good gods, Viktor, really??" Jayce still sounded downright shocked through his breathlessness. "Where the hell did you learn how to do that??" Viktor's face heated up and he averted his gaze. Jayce stared at him and Viktor could see the blue glow vaguely reflected in his pupils. Jayce stretched out his hands, placing each one on either side of Viktor's head. He had trapped him. Viktor's heart sped up. No... No, he couldn't let himself get distracted. "...You didn't come back for a week." Viktor managed in a shaking voice. He had to ignore every instinct he had screaming at him right now, watching as water ran down Jayce's tanned skin. Fuck, he could tell how he got so much funding. "...I apologize for saying those things to you. They were cruel and they were unnecessary. I am not a cruel person, I don't know why I spoke to you like that." His voice dipped into a tremor for a moment. Jayce stared at him, his eyes wide. He clearly hadn't been expecting this. "I was just making things up to hurt you. And I'm sorry. I'm not usually like that. I don't know what happened to me." Viktor's voice was becoming strangled and he saw Jayce's eyes weaken. He pressed himself back against the wall with a flinch as Jayce's hand moved towards his face. Instantly, Jayce stopped and moved his hand back to the wall."...You really never slept with him?" He asked quietly. Viktor shook his head. He stated that they'd just been friends and nothing more. That he hadn't had those kinds of relations with anyone since before he had fallen. His eyes lowered to the ground. "Your words really hurt. I, uh, I don't think I've ever felt stabbed so verbally before." Viktor's grip tightened on his cane. "I'm... also surprised you didn't try to hurt me like this sooner." Viktor replied that he couldn't. That he just wasn't like that. He wasn't violent. He wasn't cruel. "Then it's the Runes. I'm sure we can get you used to i-" "No. No, I do not want to be used to it. I want them to be gone." Viktor stated shakily. Jayce furrowed his brow and before he could even start to say he wouldn't do that, Viktor's slender fingers brushed his navel. Jayce's jaw shut so fast that it almost made Viktor jump. "You really cannot do that for me, Jayce?" He couldn't hide the slight upset in his voice and he hesitated before sliding his hand down into the towel. Jayce's hands curled up into fists on either side of his head. Viktor's fingers stopped right at the base of Jayce's length. His own face was burning blue. "S-Surely there are other Runes that could tie me to this body. Ones that do not have to imbue violent thoughts within me." Viktor's hand finally slid down completely and the burning spread down his neck. If the toy he'd used had actually matched Jayce's length, he surely would've choked. Jayce felt semi-hard and he exhaled shakily as Viktor's hand wrapped around him. "Can you not name a few?" He heard Jayce swear quietly. "Y-You want me to n-name them right now??" The other stared at him in heated disbelief. Viktor met his gaze and nodded. He softly asked Jayce to think as hard as he could. He gave his length a pump and Jayce inhaled shakily. "Hah! T-To k-keep something inside, the Binding Rune is -fuck- usually what's r-recommended. But the -hah- the Fuse R-Rune works too. It's much more -oh, fuck- much more p-permanent, but it would -ah- it would get the job done. W-We can use some... some Trap Runes if I -oh- I can infuse them with the i-intended outcome of keeping you in that body." Jayce was absolutely stumbling his way through his explanation as Viktor continued to pump him. He kept his rhythm consistent, yet firm. "Fuck, Viktor..." Jayce's voice stretched into a desperate whine just for a moment as his length throbbed painfully under Viktor's fingers. "Wh-What would be easier for you?" Viktor managed to keep his voice calm. His own body was hot. Every time Jayce would try to reach down to him, Viktor's hand would come to a dead stop. Around the tenth time, Jayce slammed his fists against the wall in frustration as he let out a filthy noise. "T-Trap Runes are l-less permanent, but it's r-riskier. Fuck. All their effects have different... hah... different durations." Jayce managed to say through his borderline sobs. He was twitching and throbbing so badly. The towel was seconds away from falling off of him and, to spare himself the embarrassment of seeing it, Viktor decided the next best thing was to take one full step right into Jayce's space. "Fuck." Viktor heard Jayce swear weakly. He lifted his head and their parted lips were inches apart from one another. Viktor managed to tear his gaze away after a moment, squeezing his eyes shut. "F-Fuck! Viktor!" Jayce cried out as Viktor sped his hand up before taking his pointer finger and pressing it into the tip. It took one slide of his nail over the slit to make Jayce burst. "HAH!!" Viktor heard Jayce's nails scrape slightly against the wall as something spattered his hand. Jayce really was absolutely refusing to touch him until he said so. There was nothing but Jayce's panting for a moment. He finally lowered himself down, his face inches from Viktor's. Viktor was shaking as he pulled his hand back. "...You will replace the Binding Runes for me?" He asked quietly. Jayce scanned him over, his gaze still messy as he breathed out that he couldn't. Viktor paused before raising his spattered hand to his lips. He watched Jayce's eyes go wide as Viktor started to clean Jayce's release from his fingers. It was so warm. He finished and drew his tongue over his pointer finger. He reached up, pressing it against Jayce's parted lips. Jayce let out a soft swear as he stared at him. "Please, Jayce. I cannot go on like this." Viktor pleaded softly. He was keeping his voice soft since he could tell Jayce liked the whispering tone, not to mention he was sure his voice would've cracked in several places if he raised it any higher. After a moment, Jayce hesitated before tipping his head. He nipped Viktor's pointer finger before closing his eyes with a shaky exhale as Viktor slipped his fingers into his mouth. The excitement that absolutely wracked his body when he felt Jayce's canines was indescribable. Jayce shook his head. He whispered that Viktor had to pull back his hand or he was going to bite. Viktor stared at him. He had dropped his cane some time ago, but he wasn't sure when. He furrowed his brow and pulled his fingers from Jayce's mouth, seeming to drag a frustrated noise from him as well. Good gods, that look. Viktor felt so hot. He wasn't able to shut his mouth, his lips remaining parted. "I-If I change those Runes, I want something too." Jayce finally stated, his voice breathy. "I want that Rune back on your neck. Because I know that it's me you see." Viktor shivered. Jayce wanted to put the Desire Rune back on him?? "What if it shows me someone else?" He whispered quietly. His body locked up, his thighs giving small twitches as Jayce spoke again. "Look me in the eyes and tell me that it'll show you anyone else, Viktor." His voice was low and Viktor couldn't bring himself to do it for a moment. He squeezed his eyes shut. "Viktor, please. Look at me." Jayce's voice ever so slightly became desperate and Viktor finally managed to look up at him, meeting his eyes. His shoulders sank. No. No, there was no way that Rune would ever show him anyone else. Not when Jayce was... Viktor reached up and he hesitated before his hand wrapped around one of Jayce's wrists. He pulled his arm from wall and finally guided the other's hand to his face. Jayce's eyes were blown wide, his pupils fully dilated. He didn't seem like he would dare move, like Viktor would run like a spooked animal the second he did. Viktor opened his mouth and sank his teeth down on Jayce's pointer and middle finger. He made eye contact with Jayce again. That look was carnal. Hot. Heavy. Hungry. "You... will replace my Binding Runes... and I will allow the Desire Rune back on me." Viktor said quietly, his teeth marks seen in Jayce's fingers as he released his hand. Viktor felt so bothered, but he had to stay focused. "I am not a violent or cruel man. And I don't want to be." He pressed himself back against the wall. "...You understand now, don't you?" Jayce nodded. He hesitated and leaned down, stopping himself an inch from Viktor's face. He could feel his breath against his lips. He wanted nothing more than to let Jayce take over right then and eat him alive, but... Viktor pushed his hand up between them and Jayce seemed to give a shiver of frustration. "You have to earn that kind of affection from me, Jayce." Viktor stated in a quiet voice, his eyes moving to the side. He swallowed softly. "And you are far from doing so." "I'll replace your Runes." Jayce sounded much firmer this time. "I-I'll replace your Runes today, even. Just..." He looked him over desperately. "Give me something, Viktor. Anything." He really was much easier to talk to when he was like this. Viktor paused before reaching up and pulling Jayce's hand down to rest against his shoulder. He tipped his head into it and gave the weakest noise as he felt Jayce's thumb rub over his cheekbone. "Gods." Jayce's voice was strangled. "Please, Viktor, please just let me-" "You have to earn it." Viktor replied, opening his eyes again. Jayce quickly stated that Viktor clearly wanted this too. "I know... but I want to be free from the Runes and these violent thoughts even more." His voice was quiet. He could barely stand, but he had to put his foot down on this. "You have to earn me, Jayce." Jayce stared at him before giving a weak nod. He shakily managed to pull away from him, both of them suddenly letting out the breath they felt like they'd stolen from each other. Viktor shakily raised a hand to his mouth before saying that Jayce should get dressed. Jayce turned away, the red of his face stretching down to his neck as he gave a silent nod.Viktor could only wonder what the Hexcore was tasting outside the door.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor was the first to leave the bathroom, though his walking was very much off. He shakily moved over to his window seat, grabbing one of the blankets and wrapping himself in it. He let out a shaking breath. The bathroom had felt so hot that it was like a blast of wind had hit him stepping outside of it. He heard that soft warbling. "N-Not right now. Please wait until I am decent again." He felt dirty at the moment and he paused as he heard the Hexcore.
Deep breaths. Three seconds.
Viktor furrowed his brow and he parted his lips. He started to control his breathing before something shot through his body like lightening through his veins, making him scream out as he shuddered violently. He instantly covered his mouth, his ears flushing and his neck even tinting blue at how filthy that had sounded. His eyes were wide in shock and he stretched his hand down, feeling himself. Dry. Dry?? Viktor could still feel the pleasure crackling through his body, how was he...?
Do you feel better? That maple taste is quite sticky. Much more overpowering than his.
Viktor glanced up at the Hexcore in confusion, asking what it had done.
If I stimulated the correct path of nerves, it should have helped you release with no mess. If I misjudged the path, I apologize.
Viktor's face was blue. He was impressed, but that was... He jumped as the bathroom door swung open. Jayce had pulled on some sleepwear pants and a loose shirt. "You screamed, are you alright??" He asked, his eyes wide. "It shouldn't hurt like that when you touch it." Viktor quickly exclaimed that it didn't, unsure if he could even keep talking. He didn't know if he could look Jayce in the face right now either. Not after that. "Th-The Trap Runes. You said you would replace my Binding Runes." Viktor said quietly. Jayce fell quiet and when he glanced up, his shoulders sank as Jayce stated that he hadn't promised anything. "Jayce." Viktor's immediately dropped and shattered into something pained and disbelieving. "Don't. Please just do what you said you would." Jayce gave a heavy sigh. "...You seduced me into saying that. You lured me in." Jayce said firmly. Viktor replied that he hadn't before flinching as Jayce spoke again. "You just did." Jayce crossed his arms, a glare piercing into Viktor's eyes. "You used the Runes. You used my own urges against me. You fed into them. I could have killed you." Viktor's hands curled into the cushions beneath him as he stated that he hadn't used the Runes and the explanation wasn't so simple. "Oh, enlighten me." Jayce sounded more than annoyed now. He sounded humiliated and betrayed. Viktor's hands curled into fists. The Hexcore suddenly crackled and Jayce instantly turned to it. "They are the same thing. There's no difference to me!" He spat at it. His eyes moved down its case. "Did you really smash the case open?? Were you that desperate??" He snapped, turning on Viktor. The Hexcore warbled again, getting his attention. "How are they different?? My desires are my urges. There's no discrepancies!" "There are!" Viktor blurted out, making Jayce turn to him. "Your urges are dark parts of you that you want to act on, even in fear of consequence. Your desires are what you want without any second thought. There is no reason to wrestle with them." Viktor stared at him quietly. "I do not know how to use these Runes to manipulate you like that. And I would never be so cruel as to turn someone's desire for me against them. Because it is one of my desires too." His voice weakened and Jayce furrowed his brow, staring at him. He stated that he had ruined his life. "I know." He stated that he'd broken Viktor's trust more times than they could count. "I know." Jayce could only stare at him. "Jayce, if you don't believe it, come here." Viktor stated, his hand tight on his own arm. Jayce seemed hesitant. "You are a scientist, as am I. You need evidence." Viktor said, glancing up at him. Jayce finally seemed to relent, sighing through his nose. He moved over to Viktor and Viktor waited. He suddenly lashed out at Jayce and the other swore, grabbing Viktor's wrist and slamming him down on his back against the window seat. He grabbed his other wrist, yanking it up. One of Jayce's hands could hold both of Viktor's wrists. "What the hell was that?!" Jayce demanded, his eyes wide. Viktor shivered. He tried to pull his wrists from Jayce's grip and it tightened. "No, you're not getting out of this. What the hell was that for??" Viktor shivered. He really wasn't getting out of this. He inhaled weakly. Jayce was looking him over, his free hand next to Viktor's shoulder. Viktor saw Jayce breathe in slightly. Jayce's hand was squeezing his wrists. "Why did you... Why did you do that??" He could actively see Jayce weakening. His eyes sharpening. His breathing quickening. "Answer me, Viktor." "Wh-What do you feel right now?" Viktor's question was quiet. "When you are holding me down like this and you have me completely at your mercy?" Jayce's jaw clenched a little. He began to state that Viktor wasn't answering him and stopped as Viktor spoke. "Because whatever you are feeling, I am likely the same way right now. When you have me held down and I am... completely at your mercy." Viktor's voice trembled. He watched as a slight sheen of red crept down Jayce's ears. Jayce replied that he knew he had to let him go before he hurt him, but he also just wanted to watch him squirm. Keep him trapped, knowing that Viktor will only escape if he lets him. "And why won't you let me go on your own?" Viktor was already quivering again. Jayce seemed to become momentarily confused, the red hue spreading across his face again. Viktor gave a small tug. "Pl-Please let me up." Jayce hesitated before he released Viktor's wrists and backed away as the other sat up. "...There is nothing I crave more than to indulge with you. To let you take me over and consume me." Viktor said quietly. "But these thoughts and these nightmares... I cannot stand them. If I am to keep them, it is a gamble on how much longer you will have me." He sat with sunken shoulders. "You said you would replace the Binding Runes as long as-" "I can put the Desire Rune back on. I know." Jayce said quietly, turning his head away. His arms were tightly crossed again. Viktor stared at him before asking why he wanted that specific one back on him. "Because I want to see how it works. How it affects you. I know it shows you someone you want most and it is capable of touching you with them, but that's all I know of it. I've never really... felt the need to study it further." Jayce seemed extremely conflicted about this. Agitated, even. "And what then? Will I have 'earned' you??" He sounded annoyed by that as well. Viktor looked him over in disappointment. Jayce caught his gaze and he finally glanced away. "...Don't look at me like that." "You shattered my trust. Many times. I know it's stupid of me to try again. But here I am, with those broken pieces of myself to present to you... If you do as you said you would, nothing more and nothing less, I could trust you a little again. And with that trust, I... I could trust you to touch me more." Viktor managed quietly, his gaze on the ground. "Have me more." Jayce asked if he really thought he wanted him that badly. "Yes. You do.""I have someone beautiful who supports me. I have people throwing themselves at my feet. Why would I want you so badly?" The question was little more than a scoff and Viktor watched him quietly. Wasn't that the question?"You tell me, Jayce. It all started with you." Viktor stated, struggling to keep his voice calm. "Why did you want me so badly?? You wanted me badly enough to Bind me to you the night we met. You wanted me badly enough to build me a body you knew I didn't want. You wanted to hold me so badly that you forced me into it and trapped me within it. You wanted me so badly that you almost shattered your charming mask in front of Mel when you thought I slept with Silco. You want me so much that my words actually hurt you and you came running back when you thought the Hexcore and I were doing something." Viktor had gotten to his feet, his hands shaking. "You would not have lost your temper or broke your character if not for how badly you want me. That is obsession, Jayce, and we both know better than anyone how bad yours is." Viktor inhaled shakily, raising a hand to his head. "But still, I come back to offer my broken self to you, in hope that you won't shatter it again..." Jayce stared at him before turning his head away. He seemed extremely conflicted and even downright angry. His brow was furrowed. "If I ran, Jayce, would you chase me? Or would you let me go?" Viktor asked, his gaze lowering to the floor. Jayce finally replied that he would chase him. That he would catch him and make sure he did everything in his power not to let him escape again. Viktor's breath hitched a little and he nodded. "...as expected." He glanced up. "I need you to do as you said you would. Please. I even said I would take the Desire Rune back and I will." He stated at the ground. "...Will you be alright, watching what that Rune will do to me?" Jayce replied firmly that he'd dealt with Runes his whole life. If he hadn't succumbed to the violent thoughts of the Binding Rune, he could handle the other ones. Viktor watched him before nodding. He didn't believe that. Jayce was not a sharing man. Viktor had a feeling Jayce would snap the moment he saw the Desire Rune touching him. And it was definitely going to touch him, undoubtedly. It was going to make him near useless at points and he knew it. But anything would be better than these horrifying, gore-infested thoughts the Binding Runes forced upon him. Viktor glanced up as Jayce started to move around the room, unlocking some previously locked drawers to pull out tools and glowing vials. "I'll have to put you under for this. I'm going to be carving into the nervous system." Jayce said, gathering up his materials. He dropped them next to Viktor before looking him over. "...For your sake and mine, I hope it's not just an effect of the Runes. I hope for your sake and mine that I want you as bad as you think I do."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
When Viktor woke again, the room was dark, with the exception of the Hexcore's glowing purple light. His head was foggy. He was lying on his back on the window seat.
Welcome back.
The Hexcore's jumbled voice sounded purposefully quiet. Viktor wondered if it could sense his brain fog. His shirt was gone and his pants were rolled up. He furrowed his brow and managed to sit up. Bandages were wrapped around his wrists, his ankles and his chest. That heaviness in his mind was gone. Those violent words. Nowhere to be found. Viktor could've cried from relief if he'd felt any weaker. He just felt... cold. Even with the windows shut. It felt like the coldness was moving right through the body to affect him inside. He finally lowered his head to rest in his hands. He'd never been so confused by another person until he'd met Jayce. Every sign in the world pointed to the fact that Jayce wanted him in a way that was beyond skin-deep. I don't believe he recognizes his obsession and his desire goes hand-in-hand . He thinks you've done something to him. That you're simply appealing to his natural lust, as he put it.The snort Viktor let out almost hurt his entire ribcage. He burst out in soft laughter, burying his forehead against his hand. "...He said he had someone beautiful. And what would that imply for me? I do not praise him or give him soulless admiration. What about me could possibly appeal to his... natural lust?" Viktor spoke in quiet amusement. The back of his neck stung and he raised a hand. Right. The Desire Rune was bandaged up for now, but it felt whole again. "The evidence is clear. I am not attractive to him. I do not feed into his ego. The only reason he wants me is because of that carnal obsession."
It has spread into a twisted affection that he can't recognize. He does want you. One passing glance at his mind can tell anyone that. He wants you in every way possible, but he will not accept it and he does not believe it. These Runes only prove to make him more uncertain. He called your behavior erratic and uncharacteristic. I called him an ignorant bastard. He did not like that very much.
The Hexcore spun in its broken case as Viktor gave another soft laugh. Sure enough, it didn't seem like Jayce was in the room anymore. He really thought that Viktor casted some kind of magic spell to entice him?? What a joke. If anything, Viktor felt like he was the one who had been cursed. Why was Jayce in such denial?? That tension and hunger and want they'd experienced from each other earlier, did that mean nothing to him?? Just another day, huh? What if Viktor hadn't denied him? What if he'd let Jayce have him right then and there? Then would he have believed it? Viktor had so many questions that it made his head hurt. He furrowed his brow. Arms wrapped around him, but when he glanced up, no one was in front of him. Yet it felt like he was being held against a warm chest.
It appears the Desire Rune is awake.
The Hexcore made the observation curiously. It never would have seen this one before if Jayce hadn't taken the time to study it. "...It just gives me phantoms of what I want. Right now, it's comforting me." Viktor stated quietly. He scrunched his shoulders up a little as the Hexcore hummed.
It is comforting you in his form, isn't it?
"Is it obvious?" Viktor joked weakly. He could feel those hands rubbing his back in gentle circles. "I feel he will regret studying what the manifestations do to me. Especially with a jealous streak like his." Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. "I don't understand... He's shown... interest in me before. Maybe he was just relieving himself of stress..." Viktor's cheeks went blue, remembering when he'd woken up to Jayce thrusting between his thighs. "How does he not see it? Good gods, I nearly gave in to him right in that bathroom. He begged me to give him anything." Viktor was only becoming more confused. "I... I don't understand him. At least he was nicer to me before..."
Perhaps coming closer to terms with his feelings is making him lash out? This is a man who has never had friends, lost his family while young, gained a violent crystal companion and has only had lovers who showed superficial interest in his body. I think you scare him. Because you do not fit any of those categories. Perhaps he was nicer because he was oblivious and believed his behavior was natural.
"Perhaps..." Viktor agreed, his shoulders sinking. "I do not want to scare him, but it appears just... being how I am is doing the job." He fell quiet. "Am I just a fool?" His voice had slightly strained without him meaning for it. Viktor hesitated before shifting so he could look down at his hip. Jayce hadn't restored the Domination Rune, but based on the dark patch of bandages, he'd removed it completely. It looked messily done and angry. He glanced over at the Hexcore. "...He has gone to Councilor Merdarda, hasn't he?"
Right to her bed.
It made Viktor's heart ache, but it certainly didn't surprise him either. "He wants to prove to himself that I am not the one he wants." Viktor said, sighing quietly. "Even though he keeps me... up in this ivory tower." Viktor glanced out towards the window. Jinx had only come to visit him once since he'd been locked away. He thought he'd be seeing her nearly everyday. Was she alright? Where had she gone? Viktor was anxious again. He turned his gaze back down to the window seat. He scooped up one of the blankets and felt the manifestation disappear as he slipped out of the seat. He made his way back to his stool, wrapping the blanket over his shoulders as he sat next to the Hexcore's case. "...It feels as if there is cold within my body."
The Trap Runes are simply meant to do just that. He's locked you inside it. The Binding Rune tied you to it. The Fuse Rune would... make it yours. Since you are simply puppeting the body now, you may feel lesser sensations. Looser.
"It feels as if the whole body is going to slip off of me." Viktor replied, his brow furrowed. "Like it is nothing more than a skinsuit."
But your mind is quiet. Your thoughts are clear.
Viktor nodded. He paused as it felt like someone was sitting next to him. Their arm was wrapped over his shoulder. He was warm.
The Desire Rune seems determined to keep you happy, at least. As long as your desires remain this innocent, of course.
He cast a doubtful glance over at the Hexcore, which let out its multi-voiced chuckle.
Of course. You are only human, Viktor. However flawed that obviously is.
Viktor rolled his eyes and waved his hand at the Hexcore dismissively, seeming to amuse it again. "It appears he... removed one of the Runes from my body entirely, though it doesn't seem to have been a calm process."
He was quite agitated about that one. Asked why he should believe what you say if you can't handle him looking out for you.
"Ah, is that what they call this behavior nowadays?" Viktor said, raising a brow. He gestured towards the manifestation. "He used to do things like this on his own. Now he looks at me as if I am some... harlot... sent to deceive him. It is... It is quite painful. It was always him that looked at me with such hungry eyes. Perhaps seeing the look of someone who wanted to be eaten frightened him away." Viktor's fingers dragged along the wood. "...A freak." He paused as he felt the manifestation's arm tighten around him and he was pulled closer to a warm chest. "I don't think it likes me thinking like that."
Because you don't want to think like that, do you? Your own words will still hurt you, Viktor. You are kind. The person who has gained your affections is just... unfortunate.
"Is that what we're calling it?" Viktor asked flatly, his face buried in his arms.
I could use worse words.
"Don't." Viktor sighed quietly. He ran his hand over his head, not realizing until just then how badly his fingers were shaking. He really didn't understand. Jayce had easily been about to please him against every surface of that bathroom, and the next thing Viktor knew, he was being accused of manipulating Jayce with the Runes he had carved into his body. He'd even ignored the example Viktor had given. When Jayce had restrained him, he'd become excited. There'd been the shift in his breath and the twitching of his hand holding Viktor's smaller wrists. He hadn't even been able to look away. Viktor was right back to feeling like he had multiple Jayce's living with him, like in their first apartment. Yet somehow worse. Yet somehow so much worse. At least, for the moment, the Desire Rune seemed tame. It continued to simply hold him in a warm side hug. With how Viktor's mind was constantly racing, he had no doubt things would eventually turn. The Hexcore hummed quietly and Viktor jumped in shock as he heard cracking. His eyes went wide and he sat up, causing the manifestation to disappear. The Hexcore had started to shift in on itself again. Viktor paused before moving to the side of the stand and unplugging it. The shape in the middle hit the bottom with a clack before it finally stood up again. The Hexcore had become a sparrow again. Or what it assumed to be a sparrow. Viktor paused. He stretched his hand through the broken open glass, cupping it. The Hexcore hopped into it, huddling down into a ball as he pulled it out. "Why have you transformed? Are we to go somewhere else?" He glanced to the window uncertainly. "This late at night?" No.The Hexcore's answer was so blunt and short that Viktor was momentarily stunned. It hopped out of his hand and started to wander around the desk. "Please do not go anywhere I can't follow." He rested his head back in his arms. All this confusion and worry already felt like it was straining his body. It was just making it heavier and Viktor felt like he was being all but weighed down at this point. That manifestation was felt appearing again, a nose nuzzling against his neck as those arms kept him close. Viktor gave a small sigh. He blinked in surprise as he saw the Hexcore come back to him. It climbed up his sleeve before moving around and ducking under his hair, using the strands like a small roof. Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips. The Hexcore settled down between his chin and arm. "Curious, aren't you?"
This form is pleasing. Mobile and small. You taste sweeter when I take it, but not sickeningly so. You feel affection for a form like this, but not the same as family or... him.
"I find the form endearing. Dare I say... cute." Viktor replied quietly. The Hexcore let out a fascinated warble.
Ooh, you do not say that word often. Very well. I suppose I would be willing to maintain it for you.
"Oh, how very gracious of you." Viktor replied, a smile tugging at his lips. "Truly a benevolent entity." The Hexcore hummed. Three seconds. Three seconds before it seemed to click.
You... are making fun of me, aren't you?
It sounded suspicious and Viktor snorted again, closing his eyes. "I would do no such thing."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"If you care, The Hexcore and I are off to the bakery again. We will not be going to Zaun. We will be back before nightfall. -V"Three seconds for Viktor to step through the doorway. He turned back to look at it with a sigh, rolling his eyes as all the Runes lit back up. The Hexcore gave a small stretch on his shoulder. He was in Silco's coat once more, the Hexcore having convinced him to go back to the bakery so it could try a fresh maple plait. Viktor had gone through all the drawers in the lab and found a decent number of Cogs and Washers. He'd also found one of the 'Man of Progress' mugs and shown it to the Hexcore, which didn't stop laughing for almost a minute. Finally, Viktor had left a note for Jayce so he wouldn't lose his damn mind and terrorize Zaun looking for him. Viktor moved down the halls with his hood up. There were a few more students milling about now, seeming to interest the Hexcore with the sight of other people. A couple students did end up stopping Viktor to ask about the Hexcore and he, once again, advertised it as a light source, yet one that drew electrons from the air around them. It seemed to fascinate the students and that was good because Viktor had no idea what he was talking about. He was an epidemiologist and an anatomist, not an engineer or physicist. Could electrons work like that? Apparently??
You did not know a thing you were saying. I am shocked they all believed you so easily.
The Hexcore sounded amused and Viktor scoffed. "It worked, did it not?" He sighed and raised a hand to his head. "...I think I may have meant photons. I cannot even remember my last physics or chemistry class and even still, the information is certainly outdated by now." He gave a vague gesture of his hand as he walked. The cold air hit him as he pushed open the Academy doors. He gave a violent shiver and crinkled his nose. He swore he could feel the cold even piercing into his spectral form stuck within the body. His breath came out in a cold puff as he moved forward. The snow was nothing but a thin layer now, having been mostly shoveled off the streets and walkways. The Hexcore warbled softly on his shoulder.
We are nearby. I can smell it.
The Hexcore declared this proudly and Viktor gave a small laugh before he turned the corner. He stopped in his tracks as they both saw the crowd of people outside. What was happening?? The inside of the bakery looked busy and he could see people bustling about behind the window. The Hexcore hummed curiously. Viktor hesitated, not a fan of this many people.
Viktor, the plait. You said a fresh one tastes best.
Viktor rolled his eyes a little, glancing at his shoulder. The Hexcore paused as he lifted his hand to it. It didn't seem to understand what he was planning, but it hopped into his palm anyway, allowing him to move it. Viktor reached up, undoing his hair from its ponytail and allowing it to dangle around his head. He slipped the Hexcore up near his neck, feeling the subtle vibrations from it around his neck. The Hexcore seemed to understand, hiding under his hair. As he approached the crowd, it seemed most of them had already gotten their pastries or cakes. They were just loitering. Viktor rolled his eyes, moving through. Inside was even busier. All of the tables he'd seen empty were full, filled with sweets. All of these patrons seemed quite... upper-class. Viktor pulled his hood down, approaching the counter, where the man from before was talking to another woman his age. The woman turned and the moment her eyes landed on Viktor, she gasped and nearly dropped the plate she was holding. Viktor managed to catch it, his eyes wide. The woman only seemed speechless before taking the plate as Viktor handed it back. "I know, Laurel, this kid looks just like him, doesn't he?" The man leaned against the counter, gesturing to him. "I-Identical! G-Goodness, my apologies." The woman bowed her head before moving past him. Viktor tipped his head. That had been another former classmate. He glanced back, seeing her rejoin her table and gesture towards him. He sighed and moved up to the counter. "You came back. Glad to see a returning patron." The man said, chuckling at Viktor. "You seem quite busy today. Perhaps I should return a different time." Viktor was already glancing around at all the people nervously. The man shook his head, gesturing behind him. Viktor could see a woman and a young man near the ovens. "Got extra help today from the Missus and my boy. We're accommodating a special guest today in one of the back rooms. Brought me a lot of business!" The man looked a little tired, but pleased, nonetheless. He paused and Viktor followed his gaze to see a young woman poking her head out of the back hallway. Viktor didn't recognize her, but she must've recognized him. She quickly disappeared again. "Ah, that one's been a little jumpy." The man turned back to him. "You got the plait last time, didn't you? How'd you like that one?" Viktor smiled. "I believe I would very much like another." He said, gesturing to the still-full tray. The man chuckled as he pulled up his tongs and a box. "I'm glad. None of the folks here seemed too interested in the basic pastries. We've been steaming out cakes and cupcakes all morning." The man picked up two of them and put them in the box, Viktor blinking in surprise. "I'll give you another free. To make up for all the trouble." The man said, smiling. Viktor visibly lit up before saying quickly that he didn't have to. "I insist, kid, it's my treat." Viktor felt warmth and he heard the Hexcore let out a pleased rumble. His taste must have changed. He pulled out the two Cogs, trading it for the box. He thanked him and the man laughed, saying it was no problem. "Excuse me." Both of them seemed to have a heart attack as the young woman who'd been staring at him before suddenly spoke up next to them. "Oh, I didn't mean to startle both of you." The man turned away, a hand on his chest. Viktor's heart was faster, but he turned to her with a raised a brow. "Councilor Merdarda would like to speak to you. She is in the back room." Viktor froze up a little. Mel?? The special guest was Mel?? Did that mean Jayce was also here?? Good gods, he did not think he could look at that man right now. The woman seemed to notice his apprehension. "My name is Elora, I am her assistant." She introduced herself, trying to calm him a little. Viktor gave a quiet sigh through his nose before nodding. "I am Viktor. It is nice to meet you, Miss Elora." He said politely. This seemed to please her and she turned away. Viktor had curtailed from bringing his cane in case of recognition, but he was certainly regretting that now with his stiff leg. Elora led him down the hallway to a door and pushed it open. "Councilor, I've brought him." Elora spoke as she held the door open for him. Viktor came inside and immediately scrunched his shoulders under that piercing hazel gaze. To his relief, Jayce was nowhere to be seen. Mel looked him over before beckoning him forward. She turned and picked up a plate with a lemon tart and handed it up to Elora, who could only seem to stare for a moment. "Councilor! You didn't!" She instantly lit up as Mel laughed, telling her to go eat and leave them to speak. "Yes, of course! Thank you!" Elora rushed off with the tart. Viktor paused before settling down in the seat across from her, setting the box on the table. Mel had a small, chocolate cake in front of her with white chocolate shavings and what looked to be raspberry filling. "I take it Jayce doesn't know where you are right now?" She questioned. Viktor replied that they'd left a note this time and Mel paused, glancing up at him. "'We'?" She questioned. Viktor froze up before giving a quiet sigh. He lifted his hand up next to his hair and Mel startled as the Hexcore hopped out from under his hair to sit in his palm. "Viktor." She sounded taken back and guarded. The Hexcore turned to face her, stretching its small, twisted wings before settling back down. "When the Hexcore wishes to go somewhere, it will ask me to take it and it will assume this form. It is stable like this." He turned his attention down to it. "I am unsure if it is wise for you to try to consume these out in the open. You have not tried to eat in this form before." The Hexcore hopped impatiently.
Give me one! Viktor!
Viktor scoffed and rolled his eyes. He pulled a napkin over and reached into the box, picking one up and placing it on the napkin before laying it in front of the Hexcore. "What is that you are feeding it?" Mel asked, seeming taken back. "Maple pecan plait. It seems to enjoy it quite a bit." Viktor instantly raised his hand up to shield the Hexcore while it was heard giving small, ungodly cracking noises. "I have another if you wish to try one." Mel's eyes moved to him, seeming momentarily taken back. She asked if he was really offering it to her. "Of course. The baker says no one had expressed interest in the smaller pastries. Only the fancy cakes." Viktor held up the other plait with his free hand. "Unfortunately, it is quite sticky, I am unsure if you are willing to..." Viktor's brows raised in surprise as Mel rolled up her sleeve and stretched her hand out, taking it. She seemed fascinated before taking a careful bite, covering her mouth as she chewed. She raised her own brows, seeming pleasantly surprised. She swallowed and sighed, saying it was quite good before thanking him. "Of course." Mel placed the plait down before turning to him. "A disgruntled Jayce Talis arrived at my door last night. Desperate. You wouldn't happen to know anything about that, would you?" Viktor paused before his gaze averted. He jumped as the Hexcore hopped up onto his hand, seeming finished with its consumption. There wasn't even any residue left on the napkin. It seemed rather proud of itself. "We had... something of an argument." Viktor replied, his hands folding in front of him quietly. Mel made a noise of acknowledgement. She cut a small piece of her cake and gave it to him, seemingly in trade for the maple plait. Viktor hadn't had chocolate in a long time and he lit up a little. "Thank you." He glanced up before his eyes drifted to the side. "...I am afraid I may harbor affection for him." "Ah, my condolences." Mel replied, rolling her eyes as she tipped her head. The statement surprised him and he couldn't help the quiet laugh of disbelief that left him. He furrowed his brow."I... I thought you and him may be..." Viktor trailed off and Mel shook her head, saying they were close friends who only occasionally joined each other's beds. Viktor was almost humiliated by the relief that released in his chest. Mel continued, saying that she did care for him. That there was affection, but... "Clearly nothing like yours. And the affections he harbors for you... seems to work him up greatly. Messes with his head." She sighed and glanced over at the Hexcore. "...Does he know it can do this? Is it alive?" She sounded fascinated."I believe so. It has quite an attitude, but I believe it is as alive as you or I." He shot the Hexcore a look, which it seemed unbothered by. Mel gave a small hum of acknowledgement. "I did actually plan to come see you in the lab soon, but this works out nicely." She sighed. "I am not to discuss matters like this with non-Council members, but I suspect you may have... special insight. Jayce was going to be the pick for this task, as the 'Man of Progress', which I had to fiercely protest against. I volunteered to take his place instead and I will need your help to prepare." Viktor furrowed his brow, saying he wouldn't have thought she would ever want his help. "I know... I have been less than accommodating." Viktor gave her a completely flat look and Mel sighed. "I do need your help, Viktor. I did tell you once that I may be able to barter for the peace and freedom of Zaun." Viktor froze up, his eyes raising to meet hers. Mel did seem quite nervous and she tapped her fingers against the table. Three taps. "...I am to meet with Silco tomorrow. Alone. I will need your guidance, Viktor."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"...Alone? This was agreed upon?" Viktor couldn't believe it for a moment. Even if Mel's face remained neutral and calm, he could see her fingers shaking ever so slightly against the table. Three taps. Three taps. She replied that Enforcers would be ready to assist her, if the situation should escalate. Viktor felt a small panic in his chest. "They will not shoot him?" The worry in his voice didn't escape Mel's attention and she shook her head, saying they were given orders not to. "He is the most powerful of the chem-barons. It is due to his influence that the others would not dare venture into Piltover." Mel immediately nodded again, saying that was what the Council had suspected. Viktor's hand curled up a little. He was already anxious. "Where will your talk be done?" Mel replied that it would be on the Bridge of Progress. That the streets would be cleared on either side, with the exception of possibly Silco's men and the definite Enforcers on either side. "No one could go in your place?" "No one wished to. Jayce could do it, but... I could not allow this to happen. Because, based on the fact that you don his coat, I have no doubt that some of Silco's conditions would... concern you." Viktor stared at her. That... That was right. He swallowed quietly, saying that must've been why she couldn't allow it. "Indeed. I fear Jayce would end up dead or, at best, they would tear each other apart." Viktor closed his eyes, letting out a quiet sigh. "I have seen what war does to people. I do not wish for this tension to escalate into such a thing. Jayce seems to be expecting it already. He had the idea put into his mind by a quite unwelcome guest in my home. He had run off to his forge, last I saw of him." Mel's fingers drifted over the maple plait. "...He intends to make weapons... 'just in case'." Viktor went a little cold and his chest tightened. Hextech weapons forged by someone like Jayce would be... devastating. Especially to an already struggling city like Zaun. "That was also why I wished to come see you. He needs a little more funding in order to finish them. There is a gala tonight that he will be attending as a chance to pull in just one investor. It's all he needs. And he has always left these kinds of parties with someone." Viktor's fingers curled against the table and the Hexcore hopped to his arm. Viktor's chest had squeezed painfully. "And why... would this involve me?" He asked quietly. Mel sighed, her gaze shifting to the side."It would be... beneficial for both of the cities if you... prevented him from bringing home anyone tonight." Mel said, her eyes moving back up to meet his. Viktor stared at her. Three seconds to process. A realization hit him. "You want me to distract him?" He paused after a moment and glanced to the side. "You want me to seduce him...?" He asked quietly. Mel replied it was only if he was willing. "Do you believe such a plan would work?" Mel glanced up and replied that she was absolutely certain Jayce would not be able to refuse him. Viktor stared at her doubtfully. "He is wary of me, due to the emotions he is struggling with. Surely he will avoid me." Viktor's eyes fell to the table. "He does not find me attractive, Miss Merdarda. He implied so himself." Mel watched him quietly. "As the one who has been present to many a late night conversation with him... this is simply not true." She said quietly. Viktor paused, glancing up at her. Was she... being honest? He replied that Jayce was still likely to avoid him. "Not if we dress you up a little. I take it you've never been to a gala, but formalwear is a must." Mel picked up the maple plait again, studying it over. "Do you believe he could avoid you if he saw you in such fabrics?" Viktor paused. Well... no. No, he absolutely did not believe Jayce could avoid him at all, let alone in formalwear. He was uncertain, asking quietly if this was not manipulative. "This is to prevent an escalation between the cities. There are people you care about in Zaun, are there not?" Mel's question was soft and Viktor felt his chest ache a little. There were. There were people he cared deeply for. Viktor started to speak, concerned about something else. "I will bring you to my estate and I will provide you with clothes. With the proper corset, I do not doubt you would fit my things." Mel's brows shot up in surprise as Viktor's face went blue. "Oh?" "Apologies, that's..." Viktor slightly covered his face. "Your clothes?? Me?? I am not a fan of... looser clothing." Mel replied that she had much more suitable clothing for him. She replied that she would not trust him in one of her dresses or skirts anyways. Viktor relaxed a little, but he was still anxious. He glanced over as the Hexcore warbled.
Perhaps we misjudged her? This was unexpected. She does seem concerned for the city you love and willing to take the risks to prevent... a problem arising. If I'm understanding correctly, this must be a good thing. You believe so, at least.
"Your understanding is correct." Viktor affirmed quietly. He glanced to the side, furrowing his brow. "Will I be joining you now? I promised in the note to return before nightfall." Mel replied she would have someone deliver a message to Jayce that Viktor would be with her. "And the Hexcore? You trust it to come with us?" Mel watched him. "Do you?" She asked after a moment. Viktor blinked in surprise before glancing down. "I believe... I do." He admitted quietly. The Hexcore seemed surprised and when it spoke, it sounded genuinely shocked and slightly eager.
You do??
"I do." Viktor replied, finally doubling down on it. "It has not tried to leave me, nor has it forced me into anything. It shows respect for me and my privacy. It just... happens to run its mouth quite often." He jumped as the Hexcore crackled at him and a smile pulled at his lips. Mel had taken another few bites of the maple plait as she watched them. She did seem amused, finally swallowing before speaking again. "I will trust your judgement then." She was quiet as she looked it over before speaking again. "It unnerved me when I first saw it in that stand. The way it moved and twisted contradicted Jayce's assurances that it was nothing more than a source of power and energy. Nothing beyond that, he said." Mel sighed quietly. "And yet you speak to it. And yet it moves. It understands you and reacts to you. It's quite curious." She murmured. The Hexcore hopped down so it was between Viktor's arms. "Even the fact that it can change forms like that is fascinating." "Yes, if it actually resembled a bird of any kind, it would be quite incredible." Viktor mused. The Hexcore instantly let out a displeased buzz. Mel finished the maple plait, seeming more than pleased with it. Viktor watched her. "What brought you to this bakery? I did not take you as one for visiting smaller businesses." Mel glanced up at him before stating in a prompting tone that it had peaked her interest, since it had seemed worth escaping a laboratory for. Viktor paused before a smile pulled at his lips. "I would say it quite is, no?" Mel scoffed in amusement, giving a small roll of her eyes. "The cakes and such are beautiful. The pastries are delicious and the family that runs it is kind. It is a rather charming little place." Mel replied, glancing around. "You seem to know it well." "I would come here often when I was a student. There are lots of people here that are spooked to see my face. Even the baker used to be an old classmate of mine. They all tell me I look so much like someone they used to go to school with... It is odd to see them now. Grey-haired and with grown families..." Viktor gave a small sigh. "It makes one wonder what he has... missed out on." Mel stared at him and her amusement had faded. She furrowed her brow. Viktor glanced up. "To watch everyone grow old without me is... something cold. It reaches into my heart with frigid fingers and holds it tight. A lot of people I never spoke to... the fact that they recognize my face and the baker recalls that I was top of the classes... They all remember me. When I fell..." Viktor's voice shook for a moment. "I did so thinking no one would remember me in a decade." Even the Hexcore was quiet. Viktor felt the Rune on the back of his neck tingle and warm arms wrapped around him. He gave a small sigh. "My apologies, I did not mean to... dampen the energy here." "...Don't apologize. I should be the one apologizing. Ever since I was small, I was taught to treat things I don't understand as threats. Oppositions. I did just that when I saw you for the first time and was especially wary of the fact that you were invisible to the naked eye. A dead man walking. Yet, over time, Jayce would never go a day without mentioning you. I learned through him of your kindness. Your biggest gift and your worst curse." Viktor paused before his shoulders sank. Truly. Truly, it was. "Perhaps I was... envious of this part of you." Viktor blinked. He'd always thought she didn't like him since he was close with Jayce. "I do hope you can forgive my hostility. The way he sometimes speaks of you results in my scolding. I would like to try again, knowing that you are not a threat and not my enemy, but simply another human being like myself." Viktor could only stare at her for a moment and that warmth spread through his chest, making the Hexcore warble.
You taste warm. This has surprised you, yet I can sense your relief. This must be something good if that's how you feel. You will forgive her?
He nodded, finally giving a smile. "Conversing with you is rather pleasant, Miss Merdarda. It... relieves me that we are not at ends." He admitted. Mel chuckled softly. "I do hope we can continue to get along. And..." Viktor trailed off before speaking quieter. "I must thank you." Mel seemed surprised before asking what for. "For being his only friend. The fact that he has at least one genuine friend relieves me. He has always been so guarded before." Mel blinked before her gaze softened. She asked if he was not a friend to him as well and Viktor scoffed, rolling his eyes. "He... does not see me like that. How he sees me is..." He trailed off, not wanting to sound crazy. Mel held up a hand, saying she understood. She finished her cake and pushed herself up from her chair as Viktor finished his piece. He scolded the Hexcore for trying to get near it. "You have lamented before that too many sweet things displease you and you have already consumed a whole maple plait! I will not be having you complain." Viktor paused as Mel offered her hand to him. "Elora, would you be so kind as to tell the remaining Enforcer to deliver a message to Councilor Talis?" There'd been two of them outside the door to the room. Elora's face was messy and she jumped, going red before nodding. Mel laughed softly. "Please inform him that Viktor is with me." Elora nodded, quickly cleaning her face. Mel turned back, helping Viktor up once he'd taken her hand. Those ghostly arms dispersed from around him. He stretched his hand back to the Hexcore, which hopped into his palm. "I believe I may purchase more of those plaits. They were quite good." Mel mused softly. Viktor followed next to her as she moved out of the room, instructing one Enforcer to come with them. The baker seemed surprised to see them walking together. "Councilor, did you like everything?" He sounded slightly anxious and Mel nodded. "I would actually like to purchase your maple plaits. I was not aware of their flavor. I quite like it." Mel said, smiling. The baker blinked in surprise, glancing at Viktor before smiling himself."O-Of course, Councilor!" He began to fill a box with the four left on the tray. Mel easily paid for them, taking the box once the baker had held it out. "Thank you for bringing me so much business." He sounded genuinely grateful and Mel nodded, replying it had been her pleasure to eat at such a charming little bakery. The baker seemed visibly overjoyed at this, inviting her back anytime. Mel turned and left the bakery with Viktor, the Enforcer moving along behind them. She held the box of maple plaits as they walked. Viktor held the Hexcore back up to his shoulder, where it settled.
You are really going to take me to a gala? Jayce mentioned those often, but he wouldn't even let me out of my stand, let alone take me to something like that.
"I will take you as long as you behave and you do not destabilize. You must remember that you are an energy source based in magic. If you destabilize, it could be disastrous for everyone around." Viktor stated firmly, Mel glanced at him with a furrowed brow. The Hexcore scoffed.
I am not that uncontrolled! I can keep myself stable just fine, thank you!
"If that is true, I am more than content with bringing you." Viktor told it. Mel asked what they were talking about with a raised brow. "I must ensure the Hexcore maintains this small, contained form. It often seems to forget that the power it holds is not natural in our world. The magic itself is natural, but so much in a condensed shape is a different matter." The Hexcore huffed dramatically again.
You are painting me in a bad light! I am very controlled. I even withhold my energy sometimes so I don't shock Jayce when he is being annoying.
"Only sometimes?" Viktor questioned quietly, a bit of amusement creeping back into his voice.
He deserves it most of the time.
Viktor gave a quiet laugh. He let his breath billow out in front of him. Mel had on her white fur coat and he felt quite underdressed walking next to her. "It sounds as if the Hexcore is quite entertaining." Mel commented. Viktor instantly replied for her not to boost its ego, making the Hexcore huff again. Mel gave a small smile, but the twitch of her brow signaled something else."...You are worried about something? I assume it is besides the talk." Viktor moved up so he could match her pace best he could with a stiff leg. "I want to assure you that I can help with the talk you must have with Silco." Mel replied that she was concerned about Viktor meeting the unwanted guest in her home. "Surely I can avoid them. How... are they allowed to stay if they are unwanted?" Viktor would've thought that Mel would've had any unwanted guest off her property in an instant. Mel sighed, her eyes falling to the ground. "Because they follow her orders when she is around. Not to mention she has always done as she wishes. She is highly trained and skilled in combat. I doubt any amount of Enforcers could remove her, even if they wanted." Mel replied. Viktor furrowed his brow. "And you, especially, must be careful." Viktor didn't like that at all and he hesitantly asked why. Mel rolled her eyes, seeming both embarrassed and exasperated. "It is my mother, and she... likes your type."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
As expected, the Merdarda estate was grand, beautiful and draped in gold. Viktor felt... so out of place. Their footsteps echoed around a massive main hall and Viktor crinkled his nose a little at how disjointed his sounded. The Hexcore seemed fascinated as it stared out from his shoulder. Viktor was so grateful that its voice didn't echo and remained within his head.
I have never seen such a large hall. Is the rest of the building like this? What is it used for?
"It's a home. Miss Merdarda lives here." Viktor told it quietly. Mel glanced back before giving a small smile and asking if the Hexcore liked it. "It has only ever seen the inside of the lab and now the bakery twice. It has never had the experience of viewing grand architecture. It... has not been able to experience much. It only knows what it does through Jayce and I." Mel's gaze moved to the Hexcore and softened a little. She turned forward again as they climbed a grand staircase. To Viktor's relief, it did seem to click for her that he would need at least a little assistance. She came back and started to help him up. He shot her a grateful look and they reached the top, Mel staring down one of the hallways and giving a heavy sigh. She started to move forward with him, though it seemed to be much faster. However, their fast pace didn't seem to help as Viktor heard a door open and an older woman's booming voice echoed down the hall after a moment. "What do you have there?" Mel muttered something under her breath. She turned around with Viktor and his eyes went wide. The woman in front of him seemed to look him up and down, those calculating eyes narrowing in immediate interest. "Mm, he is... far from your type." She commented. Viktor couldn't move for a moment. Not from the woman herself, but... That outfit was a soldier's outfit. And not just a soldier, but a general. However, the symbol on the uniform was far from Piltovian. It was... "Noxus?" He whispered softly, his eyes wide. He jumped as someone else appeared behind her in the room. Another man, slender and pale. Much, much younger than her. Well... Viktor could recognize a brothel worker when he saw one. Gods, no wonder Mel was so upset about this woman being here. The woman stated in a voice that nearly purred for him to introduce himself. Instantly, Mel stepped forward. "Mother, stop. We must prepare for the gala tonight." She stated firmly. "He has no interest in you." "Perhaps the boy should speak for himself." The older woman replied in a chiding tone. "And perhaps the boy should start by introducing himself." Viktor froze up a little. "My name is Viktor. I am an... acquaintance of... Mel's." He felt a little bad referring to her on a first name basis, but Mel didn't seem upset. She continued to glare at her mother, who'd instantly seemed to brighten up more at hearing his voice. "That's a nice accent you have, Viktor." The older woman mused quietly. "I couldn't help but notice you have a stiff leg. This young gentleman-" She gestured behind her at the other man. "-is quite good at massages. Maybe you two can get along." Viktor instantly stiffened, lowering his head. "I must decline." He said quickly. He glanced over. "Uh... Mel, we should hurry to get ready." Mel kept her eyes firmly fixed on her mother as she replied that they should. Viktor started to turn away before jumping as the older woman spoke again. "Do not walk away from me, boy. Come here." Her voice was firm and Viktor's eyes were wide. He reached up, quickly tucking the Hexcore under his hair. It did not seem to protest. He was much older than she thought, without a doubt, but he certainly felt small right then as he turned to look at her. Mel reached out, taking his arm. "Let him come to me." The woman stated. Mel let out a frustrated sigh through her nose and released Viktor. Viktor was... genuinely afraid. He took a few stiff steps forward and it didn't hit him just how muscled this woman was until he was standing in front of her. Good gods, she could snap him like a twig. Viktor slightly scrunched up his shoulders before jumping as the older woman reached out, grabbing his chin and turning it up to face her. "I am General Ambessa Merdarda of the Army of Noxus." The title visibly seemed to make him shrink down and a smile tugged at her lips. "I am not afraid to admit I have a certain type, Viktor, and you certainly fit the mold." Viktor had frozen up like a startled deer before swallowing quietly. "M-Mel and I must go get ready. I apologize, b-but I still must decline." He managed. He felt like his breath was being stolen from him in a terrible way. Ambessa scanned him over before scoffing and releasing his chin. "Very well. If you happen to change your mind, I'll be waiting." She turned away, moving back into the room. Viktor nearly went blue as he realized the other man had been bare behind the door. He quickly turned away as the door shut. Viktor glanced up at Mel with wide eyes. Mel had her face in her hand and her other hand on her hip. She looked so disappointed. "Miss Merdarda, I apologize for referring to you so casually." He made his way back over to her in stunted steps. His heart was racing. He heard the Hexcore warble.
I do not like that woman. She scares you and she grabbed you without asking permission.
"I-It's alright. We will not stay near her for long and I certainly do not intend on joining her." Viktor told the Hexcore quietly. It still didn't seem pleased, giving an unhappy buzzing noise. "Viktor, I feel I must be the one to apologize for her unprofessional behavior." Mel muttered, her forehead in her hand. She seemed more than annoyed as she turned away. "Let us go get ready. I pray she keeps herself occupied long enough for us to leave unbothered." Viktor nodded, moving up next to her. Undoubtedly, he had questions, but based on how stressed Mel looked, Viktor wouldn't ask them. Now was not the time. Mel led him down the halls before opening a gold-gilded door. It led into an absolutely massive bedroom, the sun shining down through the glass ceiling. The bed alone took up nearly the entire center of the room and Viktor was stunned speechless. Mel gestured to a circle of couches. "I will fetch the clothes. Please settle down." She looked him over. "We will also be doing your hair." Viktor blinked. What was wrong with his hair?? As it turns out, much was wrong with his hair. Mel spent easily over an hour testing different hairstyles on him. He felt a little grateful that he wasn't able to feel the pulling on his scalp, due to the hair being completely synthetic. Mel scoffed. After another hour, she had him go get dressed in the outfit she'd picked. It hadn't been anything... extraordinary. Viktor had still been a little overwhelmed by the fancy fabrics and rich, embroidered detailing. He'd been given black pants that were loose enough to not cause him discomfort, though the sides were... He felt his face flush a little as he held them up. Mel had retreated to the bathroom for the time being and Viktor had placed the Hexcore down in a chair before moving behind it. There was a strip of sheer fabric down the sides of the pants. It definitely wouldn't reveal anything but his skin, but that... that was still revealing his skin. He was slightly blue on his cheeks. His eyes moved over to the top. It was a dark red, collared shirt absolutely coated in gold detailing that resembled lace. It had bishop sleeves, the cuffs being completely gold. There were small gold chains that attached to a button just under the collar of the shirt, meant to hang over his biceps. It had small charms. This... This felt far too nice. His gaze moved to the final part of the outfit, which was gold corset that would cover just his waist. It was bejeweled with red and he furrowed his brow. It really was far too nice. Viktor hesitated. He changed into the pants first, going completely blue at the air hitting his legs through the sheer fabric stripes. He had to adjust a little, but otherwise, they certainly fit him. Viktor reached out to the top, but when he held it up, there was a surprising weight to it. Not heavy, per se, but heavier than he would've expected. He studied the top over before turning it around. His eyes widened and he went so blue that he thought he was going to pass out for a moment. She had to be joking. She had to be joking. He couldn't wear this! He placed the top down and covered his face. The entire back of the shirt was open, designed to show off one's back in an oval framing. There were chains hanging across the opening. One straight down the center with small ones connected to it from the sides. The small ones only seemed to occupy the top of the oval. He could see how this would be beautiful on someone like Mel, but him?? Viktor could only stare down at it in doubt.
Why are you becoming sour? What's happened?
The Hexcore spoke in a confused tone and he could hear it hopping around the chair. "I... I think she may have made a mistake with this top. There is no way I could wear this. It would be... This shows off far too much of me." Viktor paused as the Hexcore spoke again.
Is that not the idea? You are attempting to pull Jayce in, aren't you?
He... Viktor only felt his face heat up even more. It even spread down his neck. Well, yes, he was. But this... "Yes... that is... the idea, I suppose." He managed quietly. He shakily reached up and began to unbutton his own shirt. Once that was off, he unbuttoned the top before slipping it on. The air was felt through the open back and Viktor could feel the chains brushing against his skin. He hesitated before moving forward to show the Hexcore. "I... I really do think it's too much." He won't be able to look away from you. That much, I am sure of. It does reveal quite a lot of you, but it's not indecent. The plan will work, without a doubt.The Hexcore sounded like it was trying to be somewhat encouraging. Viktor could only feel more flustered. He buttoned up the shirt and froze up as he felt the Rune on the back of his neck tingle. Oh no. He arched his back a little, covering his mouth as he felt those large fingers slip into the open back, tracing his hips. Viktor quickly moved away from the touch, his shoulders scrunched up. Not here. He thought the words firmly. He shivered, his lips parting as that finger traced down his exposed spine. He jumped as the bathroom door suddenly opened again. The touch instantly disappeared. Mel was in a sleek white dress with black and gold jewels spiraling out from her hip. She'd changed her hair slightly so it was in a high ponytail instead of a bun. She paused as she saw him. "M-Miss Merdarda, this may be too much." Viktor said, clearly flustered. She could only stare at him for a moment before her lips quirked in a smile. "I never thought I would see you with such an expression!" She gave a quiet laugh. "You always look so calm or serious." Viktor turned his head to the side. "Well? Turn." She made a spinning motion with her finger and Viktor hesitated before turning. "...He will not stand a chance." She sounded proud of herself. "The corset, Viktor, I don't want the bottom of the shirt hanging out." She insisted. Viktor jumped, moving to the last piece. It took him a moment to lace it up properly, but when he was finished, he felt... far overdressed. Even though Mel was clearly in something much more expensive and flashy, Viktor felt... His face was still blue and he finally buried it in his hands. "Your hair now. Sit down." Mel moved behind him and Viktor paused as he felt her moving his bangs so they framed his face. It took another twenty minutes before Mel pulled back, seeming satisfied. She'd braided his hair along the sides of his head so they went into a short ponytail. Mel moved around and looked him over, seeming to study him curiously. "How will you hide your friend?" She finally asked, gesturing to the Hexcore. Viktor paused. He hadn't thought about that. "Can it change to a slightly different shape?"
What shape? I want to go too.
The Hexcore spoke plaintively and Viktor glanced up, saying it wanted to know what shape. "Mm." Mel seemed to think for a moment before moving back to her bathroom. She soon came out with a hair clip with jewels hanging off of it, kneeling down and showing it to the Hexcore. "If you take this shape, we can clip you into Viktor's hair and you can travel around with him. People will simply assume you are an accessory and no one will give either of you trouble." Mel explained to it quietly. Viktor heard the Hexcore warble in fascination. There was a loud cracking noise that made Mel jump and quickly stand up. The Hexcore was folding in on itself and they could actively see it restructuring its shell. When it was finished, it vaguely resembled the hair clip. It looked like a glowing purple clip with a webbed black covering. Mel hesitated before carefully scooping it up. To both of their reliefs, holding it didn't seem to affect her. She moved back behind Viktor and he felt her clip the Hexcore into his hair. "There we are." She moved back around, picking up a pair of black gloves that Viktor had left untouched. "You are not going to wear these?" Viktor paused before saying that they were too short. Mel chuckled. "No, no, that's by design." She held them out and Viktor hesitated before slipping them on. The gloves really only covered his fingers, stopping halfway down his palm. He was so blue that it wasn't even funny. Mel looked him over curiously. "I believe I may have a cane somewhere left behind by a late staff member. One moment." Viktor raised a brow as she moved to another door in the room. Her room had its own supply closet?? He scrunched up his shoulders. Wealthy houses always... made him uneasy. He jumped as Mel snapped him out of his daze, holding a plain black cane with a gold handle out to him. Viktor took it and pushed himself up. It felt so much better to walk with a cane. He glanced at his folded clothes in worry. "I will keep them until morning and have them brought back to you." Mel said, seeming to notice his uncertainty. "...Miss Merdarda, I worry these clothes are going to be ruined." Viktor finally admitted, reaching up to tug quietly at the top. Mel sighed and rolled her eyes before saying that she expected it. "And what of the cold? This shirt is... open-backed." He felt embarrassed saying it. Mel chuckled, turning and moving back to her closet. She came out with a white coat with a fur collar. It was cinched around the waist, but it would do. Mel scooped up her own fur coat, slipping it over her shoulders. When Viktor pulled the coat on, he felt much more hidden again. It relieved him. He heard the Hexcore warble behind his head.
You taste better again. Are you excited?
Excited? Was that another word for anxious as hell?? Viktor's heart was pounding. He jumped as Mel took his free hand and led him out of the room. He could move much faster with his cane and they slipped past Ambessa's door very quickly. The stairs were less quick, but it was the air outside that really struck Viktor. He gave a heavy shiver. He heard Mel scoff in amusement and he managed a small smile. "Uh... shall we, Miss Merdarda?" He offered his arm awkwardly, like he'd seen Jayce do before. Mel stared at him in surprise before bursting out in quiet laughter. "A gentleman at heart!" She exclaimed, moving up and taking his arm. "Take a few breaths, Viktor." Viktor hadn't realized he was shaking with nerves and he did so, his breath coming out in soft puffs. "Let's go." They started forward and Viktor paused as Mel spoke again, his face going bright blue. "I'm willing to wager it will take him less than two hours to take you out of there again." Viktor's face only got worse as he heard the Hexcore.
I'm willing to wager it will be less than an hour.
Viktor immediately covered his face, regret already in his chest.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor remained relatively okay for another fifteen minutes, though he was barely holding a conversation with Mel. The moment he saw the Council Hall, however, his voice died in his throat. Mel seemed to take notice of this. "Viktor. Breathe." She prompted. Viktor hadn't even realized he'd stopped breathing and he nodded, trying to follow her instruction. He could see so many people moving into the building, all of them extremely upper-class. The elites were here and he was sure other members of the Council were also here, but he had no idea what they looked like. "Once we go inside, a staff member will take your coat. You do not have to speak to anyone beyond basic pleasantries. I will stay by your side, if you wish me to." "Please." Viktor's voice was barely a whisper. If he was left alone in a crowd like that, he would most certainly become sick. Mel nodded. She instructed him to breathe again and he did so. They had to wait at least another five minutes before Viktor was calm enough to continue. "I apologize, Miss Merdarda, I've never... I've never been to..." Mel replied that she knew, holding his hand. She said that he just needed to focus. Right. Right, he... Viktor glanced up at the building again. Mel took a few steps forward, prompting him to follow. Viktor nodded, though his were much more hesitant. Maybe he could blame it on the cane. When they finally moved up the steps and slipped inside, Viktor hesitated once again as a staff member requested his coat. He slid it off and shivered as the air hit his back again. He passed it to the staff member before moving to join Mel again. Viktor let out a sigh through his nose as he realized they had to climb stairs again. Mel led the way, finally emerging into what seemed to be the main hall towards the ballroom. Viktor kept his eyes forward as Mel took his arm again. When they finally entered the ballroom, Viktor was immediately hit with the sound of chatter and the smell of perfume and cologne. Mel led him over to the side and Viktor paused as he heard that familiar false laugh. He turned to look. Jayce was already surrounded by people, seeming quite sociable. Viktor... had never seen him smile so much. And even still, that friendly smile was false. Cold instead of warm. His shoulders sank. Seeing Jayce pushing himself so hard to pretend was... Viktor didn't like it at all. His hands tightly gripped his cane. He glanced away, not wanting to appear as if he were staring. Three taps of his cane. Three seconds to gather his thoughts. Three seconds to glance back up. Jayce seemed to be entertaining a beautiful woman with gemstones intertwined in her hair. Viktor's chest gave that ugly little twist again. "Here." He jumped as Mel offered him a glass. "It's something light. I'm not sure if you drink, but you can just carry it around." Viktor nodded. He raised the glass to his lips, but the moment he took a sip, his whole body locked up. He had been spotted. He didn't even have to look. He felt the other's eyes. He heard Mel give a small chuckle. "Viktor. Turn towards me, will you?" That would directly expose the back of his shirt. Or lack thereof. Viktor hesitated before turning to face her, his hand tight on his cane. He heard the Hexcore burst out in that chorus of laughter.
Oh, good gods, what a look! Every thought in his head just shifted. What a good taste.
Viktor didn't even want to know. "Councilor Merdarda!" He jumped as a new voice spoke and he turned to face towards it. The man that approached them was light and slender with slicked back, yellow-gold hair and dark eyes. He seemed to pause as he saw Viktor, tipping his head curiously. "Ah, it is unlike you to bring a companion other than Councilor Talis." Viktor wasn't sure who this was, but just one look told him this was someone very important. Maybe even another-"Councilor Salo." Mel greeted him with a nod. He was a Councilor. Viktor froze up again, his heart racing. The man looked younger as well. Not as young as Jayce or Mel, but Viktor was certainly older than him. He wasn't sure of the other's first name, nor did either of them seem like they were going to say it. He took in the softest breath. "This is Viktor. He's an acquaintance of mine who has never attended a gala." Why would she say his name?? Didn't the Council know of his presence?! He was panicking inside, but it all fell to confusion as Salo nodded.His eyes scanned Viktor over and he offered his hand. Viktor tucked his cane under his arm so he could take it before jumping as Salo pressed his lips to his knuckles. "It's... quite a shame you haven't brought him before, Councilor Merdarda." His eyes roamed over Viktor again with a curious gaze. Oh? Viktor wasn't sure what to do for a moment, his eyes wide. He... He hadn't been expecting anyone to show interest in him. Salo released his hand and turned to Mel, starting to speak again. Viktor couldn't hear what they were saying due to that haunting laughter.
Oh dear.
What?? Viktor jumped as he felt someone behind him. A hand took his shoulder and he was spun around. He met Jayce's eyes with his own wide ones. "What are you doing here??" Jayce hissed, slightly pulling him away from Mel and Salo. Viktor blinked before saying that Mel had brought him. "I can see that! Why??" Viktor started to answer before quickly moving out of the way of some staff, momentarily moving into Jayce's space. He felt Jayce's hand tighten ever so slightly on his shoulder. "I-I thought you and Mel didn't get along.""I expressed interest in the gala, as I have never been to one. We met at the bakery and she had apologized for her hostility towards me." Viktor explained quietly, moving back out of his space. Or, at least, he tried to. He jumped as Jayce's hand pulled him back a little. "Jayce?" Jayce asked where the Hexcore was and Viktor slowly raised his hand to the hair clip shape on his head. Jayce sounded shocked as he demanded to know why Viktor had brought it. Viktor immediately protested that it wasn't doing any damage. There was another moment of silence before Jayce asked why it looked like that. "The Hexcore is able to change shape to whatever suits it. I am not sure how long it is able to hold it, but it has expressed no discomforts." Viktor didn't hear anything and he hesitated. "Jayce, could I please face you now? This way of speaking to you feels awkward." Jayce's grip on his shoulder had prevented him from turning back around. Nothing happened for a moment before Jayce let him go. Viktor hesitantly turned to him, his gloved fingers running along the top of his cane. The way Jayce was staring at him was... Viktor quickly averted his eyes. "I have been stuck in the lab for so long. Being able to go out and do something is... quite nice. I get to meet new people." He gestured to Salo. Jayce glanced over at him before his eyes moved back and he asked why he'd kissed his hand. Viktor paused. "...Is that not normal? He was introducing himself to me." He sounded confused and he jumped as Jayce's hand moved to the jewelry chain hanging over his arm. "Ah, Mel allowed me this top. Do you like it?" That was such a dangerous question and Viktor knew it the second it had left his mouth. Jayce's golden-brown eyes instantly flicked up to meet his. "You're... You're being quiet." Three seconds of silence. "...You're doing this on purpose. You have to be." Jayce finally said after a moment. Viktor blinked and his shoulders sank. He replied that he hadn't chosen this top, his voice quiet. "It looks nice. I'm not saying it's an ugly top." Jayce quickly spoke and Viktor glanced up at him again. "It's just..." Viktor paused as he felt Jayce's hand slide over his arm and along his back until one of his large fingers hooked along one of the back chains. Viktor was fighting demons back trying to keep his face from turning blue. He quickly moved back and that seemed to genuinely shock Jayce, his hand still outstretched. "My apologies, but... if you continue, I... I will glow blue. I doubt either of us would wish to explain why." Viktor said, his hands tight on his cane as he leaned on it. Jayce could only seem to continue staring before he turned his head away, nodding. "You should return to those people. They seem as if they are waiting for you to come back." Viktor prompted, giving a small smile. He turned away and his back was exposed to Jayce once again as he started back towards Salo and Mel. He did seem as if he was garnering attention from other people and... he recognized their faces. Old classmates. Inventors. Scientists. All of them were staring at him with that dumbstruck expression. One of them finally seemed bold enough to approach. It was an older man and he gave a bow to Viktor. "My apologies, young man, but have you heard that you resemble someone?" It would've been quite a strange conversation starter with anyone else. Viktor blinked and feigned surprise. "Many people have told me this and I am admittedly... uncertain of it. I hope the sight of me doesn't make you uncomfortable." He froze as the man's hand settled on his shoulder, his fingers light. "On the contrary, seeing a face so similar is... relieving. The man you resemble was quite handsome as well." The man's hand slid up the cup his jaw, though he kept his touch light. Viktor was still stunned. What was happening?? "Call it an old flame, but I rather... liked him when we attended school together. I know I am far too old to be pining, but... Your face is reminiscent in a warm way to me." Viktor could only stare quietly. He sputtered softly and his cheeks finally lit up. "Oh!" The man seemed taken back and Viktor turned his head away. He explained clumsily that he was a student at the Academy of Science and this was merely a result of an unstable chemical experiment. The man only stared for a moment before reaching out. Viktor felt his fingers rest against his glowing blue cheek. He... felt calmer with people that didn't seem to hold any kind of authority. "Curious. I was a student there myself, many years ago. Perhaps you could possibly indulge this old crush of mine?" Viktor tipped his head, the glow having spread to his ears. That look was something he'd never seen before. Kindness and uncertainty. A genuine warmth mixed with a light tint of lust. It... Viktor's heart sped up. The man suddenly glanced up and quickly pulled his hand back, straightening up. "Ah, Councilor Talis!" He greeted him with a smile and Viktor startled, his eyes wide as Jayce's hand slipped into the open backing of his shirt, one of his fingers hooking on the gemstone chain in the middle. While his hand didn't touch his back directly, the grip was firm. The man paused as Jayce smiled, asking if he knew him. "I'm afraid not. I would quite like to. He resembles an old classmate of mine from the Academy! And it seems many have told him already." He sounded amused and Viktor managed a small, flustered smile. Jayce's fingers finally touched his back, dragging along his spine. Viktor's hand tightened on his cane, the other still trembling as it held the glass. "I was hoping to talk to him a little more." "I'm afraid I need him for an important conversation. My apologies, sir." Jayce said, dipping his head. The man nodded, replying that it was no problem. He softened his voice as he told Viktor he hoped to see him again. Viktor only stared after him quietly. He was not used to being spoken to so gently. He was not used to being viewed with such warm eyes. He was not used to such genuineness. He turned away and Viktor froze up as Jayce spoke. "What happened to not letting yourself glow blue?" The scariest part was how casually curious he sounded. He didn't sound angry. He didn't sound upset. Just curious. And yet that grip. "Why is your heartbeat so fast, Viktor?""...No reason, really. He surprised me, is all." He managed after a moment, taking another sip of his drink. It was hard for him to swallow as he felt Jayce's knuckles drag down his spine. "J-Jayce, that hurts." It was quiet for a moment before Jayce pulled his hand away. He didn't apologize, Viktor glancing up at him with a furrowed brow. "Perhaps I should just... sit down." He turned and started to move away before jumping as he felt that hand on his back. Jayce started to speed up and Viktor struggled to keep up. "J-Jayce, I cannot walk that fast!" Viktor flushed blue, glancing to the side. Mel's eyes met his and an exasperated smile pulled at her lips as Jayce quickly guided Viktor out of the ballroom. "Jayce, where are we going??" His face only became hotter as he heard that warbling laugh.
17 minutes.
Good gods. Viktor was so embarrassed. He startled as Jayce opened up a door in the hall and pulled Viktor inside before shutting it. It appeared to be a conference room of some kind. Before he could speak again, he was suddenly pushed up against the wall, Jayce's hand firmly in the center of his exposed back. Viktor's glass smashed against the floor, his cane clattering on the other side. "J-Jayce! My gl-" He cut off in a shaky exhale as he heard Jayce's breath next to his ear. It robbed him of air and he gave a violent shiver. Jayce's other hand slid up and turned Viktor's head back just enough. "J-" He could only get out the first letter of his name before his voice was muffled by the other's lips. He... Viktor's chest suddenly squeezed, but nothing about it was painful. "Mm!" He squeezed his eyes shut and his body shuddered again as he felt Jayce's tongue. It was greedy and overpowering, Viktor struggling not to fold. It wasn't working. It was not working. He finally, finally found the energy to yank away and Jayce stared at him in shock. Both of them were panting heavily. Viktor turned to face him and he leaned back against the wall before his hands curled. He... He couldn't do it. He needed this. Fuck, he needed this. Viktor's hand flew out and he grabbed Jayce by the tie, yanking him forward. Jayce's hands were back on him in an instant, sliding right into Viktor's open-backed shirt again as their lips slid together. Viktor's arms slid up around Jayce's neck and he gasped weakly as Jayce shoved him back against the wall. They fit together like puzzle pieces. He could feel Jayce's tongue overpowering his and he closed his eyes, letting it happen. He let go of Jayce's tie and he shivered as Jayce pulled away, shining lines connecting them for a moment. Jayce stared at him, his eyes wide and heated. "Y-You did this on purpose." He managed in a shaky voice. "How? I-I thought you did not want me?" Viktor's voice was even weaker through his panting. He leaned back against the wall, his legs trembling. His face was burning blue from his ears to his neck. "You said so yourself." He turned his head away, his hands curling against the wall. "You said you didn't want me." Upset slightly crept into his voice and he jumped as Jayce suddenly reached out and turned him around so his chest was pressed up against the wall. "J-Jayce." He shivered, burying his face against the wall as Jayce's hands pushed into the open back again, sliding around Viktor's waist and engulfing his torso. He could feel Jayce crowding him up against the wall, his back to his chest and his heavy breathing in his ear. "I-I'm sorry, I'm not... I'm not good with words when it comes to you." Jayce pulled Viktor flush against his body and Viktor's eyes widened as he let out a shivering breath as he felt Jayce's twitching bulge press up against his back. "W-We can communicate a different way, i-if you want."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor couldn't help the guttural noise that left him, making him bury his face in his arms. When he stretched them up next to his head, he felt Jayce twitch. Jayce's hands pulled back from inside his shirt and dragged Viktor's hips back against himself. "Hah!" Viktor hid himself as his face burned. Jayce was rutting against him, his fingers already digging into Viktor's hips. Viktor felt shame flood his body as his own length kept being rocked against the wall in front of him. "Th-The clothes-" "I don't care." Jayce muttered, shoving Viktor right up against the wall again. Viktor let out another shaking gasp. He wasn't about to already lose it, was he?? Fully clothed and with nothing other than feeling Jayce against him?? He jumped as he felt Jayce messily undoing the corset around his waist before throwing it to the side. He slipped his hands into the open back again, one arm wrapping around Viktor's waist and the other... Viktor let out a shaking gasp as Jayce's hand engulfed his length. The noise he made felt downright sinful and it only got worse as Jayce started to pump him in time with his dry thrusts against him. "Viktor..." The way Jayce groaned his name made his length throb and he could tell Jayce felt it against his fingers. Jayce's hand slid around and pushed into the back of his pants. Viktor's eyes widened and he gasped shakily as he felt Jayce's fingers press against the Runes at the base of his spine. "HAH!! Ah!" He squeezed his eyes shut, trying not to already lose it. It was not working and he couldn't control himself. Viktor released with a shocked gasp, it trailing off into a whimper. He... He was still very much ready to go. It hadn't gone soft at all. Fuck, were the lower Runes active?? Viktor shivered. He suddenly moved to the side, yanking away from Jayce's hands and leaning back against the wall, needing to take a breath. He was shaking as he covered his mouth, his legs barely able to even hold him up. He could feel something running down them. "J-Jayce..." It was the first time he would've ever said Jayce's name like that. Filthy, desperate and utterly depraved. There were footsteps and Viktor glanced up in time for Jayce to grab his wrists and slam them on either side of his head as he pushed him back against the wall again. He pulled their bodies flush, Viktor squeezing his eyes shut and whining as he felt their clothed lengths grinding together. He was twitching so badly. He... He was caught. Viktor inhaled shakily. "Jayce." His voice was nothing more than a tremor and it was instantly muffled as Jayce slammed his lips back against his. Viktor met it desperately, tipping his head to the side and letting Jayce taste all of him. It only seemed to make the other hungrier and his grip tightened on Viktor's wrists. When Jayce finally pulled back again, his voice was low and dangerous. "Stop running from me." He leaned forward and Viktor tipped his head back, his eyes going wide as he felt Jayce's hot breath against his throat, followed by the slight press of his teeth. He could sense Jayce's urge to bite down like it was his own. And yet the other restrained himself, panting as he kept his teeth lightly sunken into Viktor's skin. Viktor whimpered. As humiliatingly bad as he wanted this, he couldn't. Not here. Not in a place like this where he still had to leave. Maybe in the safety of the lab. He trembled. "H-How are y-you to catch me if I do not run, Jayce?" Viktor whispered. He jumped as Jayce pulled back. He stared at Viktor with wide eyes. There was such a desperate need in his eyes that Viktor swore he could taste it on his tongue. He startled as Jayce suddenly let go of his wrists and dragged Viktor against him by his hips. "Hah!" His hands were swallowing Viktor's waist and they seemed to be dragging up and down before Viktor felt him grip the waistband. To both his shock and violent arousal, Jayce tore the pants straight down the seams, dropping them to pool around Viktor's ankles. "JAYCE!!" Viktor cried out in shock, his eyes wide before he squeezed them shut. Jayce's hands were already exploring the new territory and he slid his hand down into his undergarments before Viktor shivered, feeling one huge finger press at his hole. Viktor let out a filthy, shivering noise as it slid inside with a slight squish. His eyes were wide. A squish?? How? Jayce hadn't even prepped him yet! Viktor was pulled from his thoughts with a small shriek as Jayce pushed another finger in. "...Viktor, I fucking want you so bad." Jayce finally spoke, though it sounded strangled. Like it was the hardest thing in the world for him to say. "Then take me, Jayce." Viktor managed back in his weakest, most desperate tone. He cried out as another finger pushed in alongside the first two and Jayce was already pumping his fingers. He felt so full with how big they were. Viktor could only let out shocked gasps and he arched his back. Jayce's other hand grabbed at Viktor, sliding into the open back of his shirt in order to fiercely grip his shoulder. His twitching length felt criminally ignored, but the tingle from the back of his neck indicated something else was more than happy to remedy that for him. The first ghostly touch of lips to his tip made Viktor jump and let out an absolutely sinful noise as he suddenly tightened down hard on Jayce's fingers, making the other jump. "J-Jayce- HAH!!" Viktor groaned as he felt that warmth envelop his length and the walls of a throat. Good gods, was this what it would feel like?? Viktor awkwardly bucked his hips and Jayce scanned him over. It took Jayce three seconds to understand the situation and it took three seconds for him to push his lips back against Viktor's. Three seconds for his tongue to rob Viktor of his breath and he desperately tried to keep up. "Is it touching you??" Jayce asked breathlessly against his lips. His hand slid up to the back of his neck and Viktor nearly screamed out as he felt Jayce's fingers press down on the Desire Rune. It felt electricity was shooting through his body. "How is it touching you? Describe it." Jayce scanned him over like he was trying to find the answer with his eyes alone. Describe it?? Viktor swallowed heavily, barely even able to breathe. He screamed out as Jayce's fingers pushed deeper at the same time that Viktor felt that ghostly throat take him deeper. His length gave a mad twitch. He gasped as Jayce's fingers began to twist and spread. "What is it doing, Viktor?? What are you desiring that I am not giving you right now??" Jayce practically hissed the words against his neck. Viktor shivered and tears pricked his eyes as Jayce finally pulled his fingers out with the filthiest squishing noise he'd ever heard. The mouth around his length disappeared as Jayce suddenly moved him. Viktor let out a noise of shock as he was bent over the conference room table, his fingers scrabbling for purchase against the smooth surface. He could hear a belt and the bolt of anticipation that rocked his body suddenly made his hips jerk and he covered his mouth as he released again. He didn't. "Just from hearing my belt?? Viktor..." Jayce's breathless voice was over his head and Viktor hid his face in his arms. "F-Fuck..." He whispered as he felt Jayce's hands settle on his exposed back and slide upwards as something thick and hot pushed itself up against him. Jayce started to rub himself against Viktor and he let out a muffled whine into his arms. He couldn't take it. He suddenly rocked his hips back against Jayce and the other instantly moved his hands to grip them firmly. "I'm setting the pace." His voice was nearly a growl and Viktor could only drag in heated breaths before giving a soft laugh. He could feel something else rubbing between his legs."Th-Then the Rune w-will enter before you do- FUCK!!" Viktor screamed out as Jayce suddenly slammed into him, rattling the entire conference table. Jayce was twitching and throbbing. Viktor could feel the other so deeply inside of him and he it dragged out a shaking groan from his throat. He heard Jayce scoff, saying that it would not. Viktor narrowed his eyes before giving a rough grind back against Jayce's hips, the other having to firmly grasp them again. Viktor heard Jayce gasp and he blinked in surprise as he felt Jayce release inside of him. "Y-You haven't even moved yet." Jayce muttered for him to shut up in a strangled voice. Viktor wasn't prepared for Jayce to start thrusting anyway. "Hah! J-Jayce!!" He buried his face in his arms, trying desperately to hold onto something. He squeezed his eyes shut, only strained gasps and moans escaping him. Jayce was thrusting like he wanted to break Viktor right through the table, which was giving heavy creaks. He could hear him gasping as he slotted their hips together each time. "V-Viktor..." His voice was nearly a growl. It sent shivers down Viktor's spine. He trembled and he felt the Rune tingle before he felt hands cup his jaw. Lips softly felt his own and the tenderness of the kiss sent a new rush of pleasure through him. Jayce must've felt something change, pulling all the way out to his tip before slotting himself back inside. Viktor screamed out, swearing that he could feel Jayce in his stomach. Those ghostly lips met his again. The tongue came next and it was so gentle that Viktor nearly cried from the contrasting sensations on either side of his body. "Wh-What is it doing??" Jayce sounded desperate and confused, continued to slam into Viktor as his hands moved to grasp his waist. "M-Mm..." Viktor couldn't even answer, keeping his shaky pace with the ghostly kiss. Tears finally started down his face and he gave a shaking gasp as the lips finally pulled away. A whimper left him as he felt that warm hand cup his cheek and slide its thumb over his cheekbone. He heard Jayce let out a huff of frustration and Viktor gasped as Jayce pulled out. He instantly hid his face as he shuddered, releasing from the shock. "Hah... J-Jayce??" "What is it doing that I'm not?? It's making you squeeze like that?? Why can't I??" Jayce was breathless, but he sounded borderline helpless. Viktor could barely push himself up and he could feel Jayce running down his shaky legs. He finally managed to turn on his back and he kept himself sitting on the table. Every movement proved to worsen the heat on his face and, slowly, he finally spread his legs, showing off everything to Jayce. The other could only seem to stare as Viktor panted, tipping his head to the side. He mumbled that he wanted to see him. That he wanted Jayce to hold him. Jayce's length gave a visible twitch and he swore before moving forward. His hands slid into Viktor's hair and he pulled him forward into another kiss. It wasn't as heavy, but it was still certainly hungry. Jayce finally pulled back and there was a weakness in his eyes that Viktor had only ever seen during the nights together in Zaun. He shivered as Jayce rubbed his length up against him. "I didn't mean it... I didn't. You... are so fucking..." Jayce seemed to struggle with the words, Viktor's heart already speeding up. His length gave a heavy twitch as he heard Jayce whisper the word against his neck, making his head tip back. "Beautiful." It was barely a breath. His hands were trembling as he pushed Viktor's legs further apart, making him exhale. "Viktor, I love looking at you. I want to look at you forever. Fuck." His voice was becoming feverish. Viktor slid his arms up around Jayce's neck, initiating the desperate kiss. He cried out against Jayce, his body shivering as he felt him slide back inside. "Hah! Jayce... Jayce..." His voice was a strained whine. His fingers curled into Jayce's coat and he buried his face against his shoulder, squeezing his eyes shut. "Hah!! Jayce..." He heard the other's breathing speeding up and he expected he was going to release again. What he wasn't expecting was his top to be yanked to the side and those teeth. They sank so deep that Viktor knew it had drawn blood. Tears ran down his face and he screamed into Jayce's shoulder. Jayce froze up, coming to a stop and pulling back. "F-Fuck... fuck, sorry. Sorry, I-" Jayce jumped as Viktor grabbed his tie and yanked him forward, twitching and squeezing around Jayce's length. His lips barely brushed Jayce's and he could taste his own blood. "Again. Do it again." He begged in his softest voice. It sounded sinful. Jayce exhaled and Viktor swore he could hear the control snap. Jayce lunged forward and Viktor screamed out again as he felt those teeth again. Jayce's canines were digging into his skin and all the pain was turning into something else the lower it went in his body. "HAH...! JAYCE!!" He was barely able to cling to him, his fingers dug so tight into the fabric of Jayce's shirt that he swore he would tear the fabric. His feet were arched and his thighs twitched against Jayce's sides as the other pounded into him. The table's creaks were getting louder and louder. He could feel him becoming erratic, but Viktor was the first to break, his length twitching as he released with a muffled shriek into Jayce's shoulder. He heard Jayce groan and something spilled into him again. Viktor whimpered as he felt him pull out. It... It wasn't enough. He slipped off the table with Jayce's help and Jayce grunted as Viktor slammed him back against the wall by his navel. He looked like he was about to snap at him, but his breath caught in his throat as Viktor slowly dropped to his knees, staring up at him. Viktor wasted no time in dragging his tongue up the side of Jayce's length. His breath was hot. "I-It was my throat. I'll show you." He stated breathlessly. Jayce started to respond before his fist slammed against the wall, Viktor having taken his length halfway down his throat. It was easily the biggest one he'd taken, but he was determined. The walls of his throat squeezed and massaged it, Viktor bobbing his head as he took it just a little deeper with each swallow. "Gods, Viktor. Good fucking gods. H-How?? Hah..." Jayce swore, tipping his head back before turning and pressing his cheek against the wall. "Viktor!" Viktor bobbed his head before tipping it to the side and slowly dragging Jayce's length out of his throat with a filthy wet noise. Drool ran down his chin. Jayce had clearly been on the edge and he shot a heated glare down at Viktor. Viktor met his gaze and that ugly feeling spurred in his chest. "You were going to leave with that woman instead of me, weren't you?" He started to pump the base of Jayce's length and Jayce instantly stifled another swear. "Me, who wants you so bad that I'd let you eat me alive??" Jayce shook his head, saying that he wouldn't. Viktor drew his tongue over his length again before pushing it into the tip and making Jayce inhale so sharply that it sounded painful. He slammed his fist against the wall again. Viktor shakily started to undo the buttons down the front of his shirt, only undoing them halfway. It slipped off his shoulder, showing the bloody blue bitemarks. "Would you eat me??" "Oh my gods." Jayce reached down and Viktor gasped as Jayce yanked him to his feet, dragging him against his body and devouring another kiss from him. Every movement was desperate. Jayce reached down and Viktor shrieked, his hands burying in Jayce's coat again as he felt him grip their lengths together and start to pump them. He lifted Viktor's chin, but only held their lips inches away from each other. Viktor whined, Jayce's blurred, golden-brown eyes burning into his. It was so much. It was so much. "Every last bit of you, Viktor. Every last bit." Jayce's hand slid around into his open back again, poking out of his shirt to grip the back of his neck. He groaned as he sped up his hand. "I-I'm going to devour you." "Y-You'll have to -hah- catch me every time." Viktor whispered, squeezing his eyes shut. Jayce's lips met his, whispering feverishly. "I will. I fucking will. Every time. Every time, I will catch you and I will eat you alive." Jayce finally seemed to snap and Viktor gasped as they both released, spattering Jayce's hand. He was left breathless and panting before something pressed to his lips. "Lick." He could taste both of them against his tongue as he followed Jayce's instruction. He reached up and held his hand, never breaking eye contact and seeming to shake Jayce a little. He saw him swallow. He slid his tongue between each of his fingers before pulling back, panting. His hair had long come half-undone, dangling around his head. "J-Jayce, I-I want to go back to the lab." Viktor whispered shakily. "Please." His voice was weak. Jayce stared at him. He finally seemed to give in. "F-Fine. Fine, yeah..." He slid both of his hands up Viktor's spine to hold his shoulder and pull him against him. "Fuck..." He sounded a little dismayed and Viktor furrowed his brow before going dark blue to his neck as Jayce asked a pretty good damn question. "...H-How are we going to get you out of here??"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"You both... cannot be serious." Mel stared at them both flatly and incredulously at the same time. Jayce had gone to fetch her, much to his clear embarrassment. They'd both come to the conclusion that Mel would have some kind of plan since she'd brought Viktor. Jayce had even given Viktor his coat to hide his lower half. Viktor had been so caught up that he'd forgotten about the Hexcore entirely and it was only when that warbling crept back into his quieted head that he'd remembered. He was currently only half-listening to Mel's scolding, knowing this had been the plan, so most of her ire was directed at Jayce, who sat like a disciplined child in a chair nearby, his hands clasped in front of him. Viktor stared at the ground and he finally asked the thought in his head, wondering if the Hexcore had seen any of that. If it had seen him like that. The Hexcore warbled.
You asked me before to not look at you when you do things like this. When you first started, I went into dormancy. I would not view you like that until you allow me to.
Viktor's eyes slightly widened and he felt warm relief flood his chest so fast that he felt he was going to start crying. He did go slightly blue on the tips of his ears when the Hexcore spoke again, sounding delighted.
Your tastes are potent. Delicious. The both of you. They are powerful and sweet. Sugary.
Viktor quickly spoke in his mind, saying that the Hexcore didn't have to tell him this.
But it is rare he tastes like this. It usually muted. Simply cinnamon or rot, but right now, it is different. The maple, the apple, and the cinnamon is quite a good taste.
He buried his face partially in one of his hands before jumping as Mel spoke again, seeming exasperated. "Jayce, go speak to one of the doorman and ask for my coat, along with the coat of my companion." Jayce looked embarrassed as he nodded, getting up and making his way out of the room. When the door shut, Mel turned to Viktor with a raised brow. He couldn't keep her gaze and looked at the floor again, mumbling that it had worked after a minute. "...Indeed. Not even 20 minutes and he was taking you from the room. And now the clothes are shredded. Perhaps I should've accounted for that. I had an expectation that he would treat you how he treats me. And it appears... I incredibly misjudged this." Viktor's face flushed to his shoulders again. Mel kneeled down, picking up the discarded corset and looking it over. "At least this is not damaged." Viktor hesitated before glancing up at her, asking how she planned to get them out of here. "You will wear my dress." What?? He glanced up at her in shock. "I can style a new look for myself with the coats and corset, especially since the one I gave you reaches the knees in length. And the corset is still intact." Viktor was still processing what she'd said before. He reminded her that she had said she didn't trust him in any of her dresses or skirts. "And I don't. However, if we want to avoid completely unsavory rumors, this would be the best route. Otherwise, you will be seen leaving with... certain markings and..." She raised a brow. "...dampness." Viktor froze up, avoiding her gaze again. Viktor's ears were burning. Mel sighed softly and after a moment, Viktor could see that slight fidgeting. He said her name quietly and she glanced back at him. "You are worried. When are you to speak with him again?" Viktor asked, his brow furrowed. Mel replied that she would meet him around late afternoon. "May I know what is to be negotiated? He has complained to me often about which issues bother him most. It would do you best to address those with him first." Mel paused before saying that she wasn't sure, as those were Council matters. "Miss Merdarda, I dare say I am one of the people who knows him best. Bringing up an issue that he deems irrelevant or one that is sensitive to him will not end well. Silco is a temperamental man, despite his calm-presenting demeanor." They both jumped as the door opened and Jayce moved inside with a furrowed brow, both coats slung over his arm. "Mel, those are private Council matters. You can't be discussing things like that with him." Jayce said, his voice a low, scolding hiss as he shut the door behind him. Mel furrowed her brow as well. "Viktor has insight that I would find useful if I am to speak to the most dangerous man in Zaun alone tomorrow." She stated firmly. Jayce started to say that he could go instead, but it was Viktor who interrupted him. "You both would tear each other limb from limb, Jayce. It is not wise to let you two discuss such a matter as peace between the cities." Viktor said, frowning. Jayce immediately replied that it wasn't his concern in a curt voice. "Except it is. As a Zaunite speaking to two members of the Piltover Council, it does concern me." Viktor's fingers curled into the fabric of Jayce's coat. "I may have lived with a foot in both cities, but Zaun is still my birthplace. I still wish to see it free. Healed." Viktor's gaze drifted to the ground. "And this is the closest it has ever come to such a thing. If the talk goes well and there can be proper negotiations... perhaps I could see this second life as something more than a bad joke." Viktor's shoulders had sunken. Mel's eyes had softened on him, but Jayce only looked slightly hurt by that. He gave a sigh through his nose and turned to Mel, asking what the plan was. The moment she told him, Jayce had gone quieter than Viktor. His eyes were blown wide and he glanced between them. "Jayce." Mel's voice was scolding. "It wouldn't have come to this if you hadn't snatched him from the gala, not to mention tore the clothes I gave him. A little fooling around between you would been understandable, but this?" She sounded disapproving and Jayce quickly looked to the side, clearly humiliated again. "Of course, he is not innocent either, but there should've been some tact on your end. You are never usually like that. I expected better." She had crossed her arms. Jayce stuttered that it felt different with Viktor. "Clearly. You tore his garments off of him." Viktor was just as embarrassed as Jayce and he jumped as Mel turned her back to Jayce. "Unzip me, please." Jayce went to help her and Viktor turned his head away. He focused on that quiet warbling again.
You are nervous? Is it about the attire or is it the meeting I have been hearing about? Perhaps both.
"Perhaps both." Viktor admitted. He was genuinely more worried about Mel's meeting with Silco than having to walk out of her in a dress. He did think that her natural calm demeanor would be something Silco found respectable. However, too confident of an attitude and Silco would, no doubt, become threatened. His fingers tapped at the table. Three taps. Three taps. Three taps. He nearly jumped out of his skin as Jayce said his name. Both Mel and Jayce stared at him, clearly taken back by how hard he'd startled. Viktor kept his head down. "M-My apologies." Mel had gotten redressed in the white coat, having fully buttoned up the front before cinching it with the gold corset. She had slipped the fur coat over it and, now that her legs were visible, it was seen that the corset matched the gold heels she wore. Jayce was holding the dress and he hesitated before bringing it over to Viktor. Mel turned away, saying for them to tell her when she could look again. Jayce scanned Viktor over quietly as he slipped himself off the table. He felt his face flush as he undid the rest of the buttons on the top and slipped it off, leaving him bare. Jayce wouldn't move for a moment before holding open the dress for him to step into. Viktor was embarrassed as he did so and Jayce slowly pulled the dress up. And he meant slowly. Viktor shivered as he felt Jayce's fingers ever so slightly trace up his sides as he pulled the dress up. Viktor slipped his slender arms into the fitted sleeves and for a moment, his back was fully exposed from his neck to his spine by the unzipped opening. His ears went a dark shade of blue and he covered his mouth as Jayce's fingers slowly traced up his spine. "J-Jayce. The zipper." He quickly spoke in a prompting tone and he felt Jayce jump a little. His fingers ended right on the back of Viktor's neck and his eyes widened. He gave a violent shudder as he felt Jayce press at the Desire Rune. "Mm." The noise was soft and little more than a breath. Jayce was heard giving a quiet exhaled before he held one of Viktor's lips and carefully zipped the dress up. Viktor was frozen. He'd never thought he would be in a position that would leave him in a dress, much less a beautiful evening gown like this. It squeezed his waist and he kept his shoulders scrunched up, his face completely blue. He was... He was in a dress. He didn't know what to do for a moment, his mind having frozen up. He was yanked out of it as he felt Jayce's hands on his hips, both middle fingers pressing into his navel. He squeezed his eyes shut and Jayce's hand moved up. He tipped Viktor's head back before their lips brushed against one another. Viktor was left breathless from that small gesture and he covered his mouth once Jayce released his chin. "He's dressed." Jayce said, Mel turning to look back at him with a raised brow. She blinked as she looked Viktor over. "Oh. It's not a bad look for you, Viktor." She said, sounding pleasantly surprised. Viktor was blue to his neck and he hid his face. "It covers your legs, which is the most important thing." The blue got worse. She looked them over. "Do not ruin my dress." She added to Jayce specifically and he jumped a little. "If you are to do anything else, keep my dress out of it. Do you understand?" Jayce quickly replied that he did. Mel gave a quiet sigh. "If you could bring Viktor to my estate in the morning, I must have him prepare me for this meeting. I trust Viktor's knowledge of Silco and I want this to go as smoothly as possible. For all our sakes." Viktor glanced up before nodding. He did as well. "I am going to return to the gala. Both of you must leave. No stopping for any... distractions." Viktor nodded, though he knew that he wasn't the one Mel was concerned about. He heard Jayce give a quiet scoff. Viktor jumped as Jayce placed his coat over his shoulders. He paused, his mind momentarily breaking again before he looked up at him. "Jayce, this is... this is your coat. It is freezing outside." He said, frowning. Jayce shook his head, saying he could handle it. That Viktor was the one wrapped in what was essentially several layers of sheer fabric. Viktor went blue. He still couldn't believe this. He reached up, pulling Jayce's coat a little tighter around himself. Good gods, he felt small. He jumped as he felt Jayce's hand on his lower back, moving him forward. Viktor quickly grabbed his cane as they passed it, steadying his steps. His hair hung around his head, Viktor having taken the ruined braids out. He was still absolutely humiliated about how little time it had taken for Jayce to whisk him from the ballroom. Mel was truly clever. He glanced down at the dress. A problem solver as well. He left the room with Jayce and they both moved down the hall. "...You have a Stamina Rune, don't you?" Viktor finally asked, glancing up at him. Jayce stiffened, glancing at him with slightly red cheeks before clearing his throat. He replied that he didn't know what Viktor was talking about and Viktor furrowed his brow. "You are not to lie to an anatomist about being able to continue instantly after release. There is always a resting period." Jayce scoffed before glancing to the side. "...I usually have one whenever I go to these kinds of things. It always impresses whoever I leave with." He muttered. Viktor's hands curled up into the fabric of Jayce's coat a little more. Jayce rolled his eyes, saying it wasn't that big a deal. It was just to help him pull in investors. "...Which I couldn't do tonight... Because of you." "It was you who took me from that room." Viktor reminded him firmly. "And why would you need more funding?? You have another project in mind?" Viktor asked, glancing up at him. Jayce paused, glancing down at him before replying that it wasn't really his business. "You keep me in your lab with all the other ones." Viktor stated flatly. He paused as Jayce replied in a much firmer tone that it didn't concern him. Viktor stared at him before nodding and silently turning away. The Hexcore let out a displeased warble as Viktor felt Jayce pull his hand away.
Sour and rotten. Ugh. I suppose it is only balanced that if you taste best together, you would also taste the worst together.
The Hexcore sounded disgusted as it spoke. There was nothing but their footsteps and the soft tapping of Viktor's cane. He finally came to a stop, staring at the ground. Jayce paused once he noticed Viktor was no longer at his side, turning back to look at him with a furrowed brow. "...Jayce, I really believe you should wear your coat outside." He paused as another flash of hurt went through Jayce's eyes. The other came back, sighing through his nose as he slipped it off of Viktor's shoulders without another word. He pulled it back on before waiting for Viktor to come up to his side again. "Jayce." Viktor's voice was quiet. "I say these things out of concern." "Why?" Jayce asked quietly, glancing up and meeting his eyes. "Your second life is just a bad joke, isn't it?" There was something slightly bitter to his words and Viktor paused before replying it was only so because he hadn't asked for it."I... cannot forgive you forcing me into a body so easily. No matter the pleasure you bring me." Viktor's hands tightened on his arms as he stared at the ground. "Surely you know what you did was wrong. You must understand the turmoil I feel whenever I see this face and these hands. The turmoil I feel seeing that everyone I knew has grown without me. That they tell me over and over that I look like that man they'd known before. While... I am that man." Viktor's hands curled in front of him. "You dragged me into a world that left me behind. One that I left behind. And it has changed so much that I don't know if I can keep up with it." Viktor's voice was strangled. "I never thought I would have to again." He paused as Jayce spoke sharply again. "So you just want to give up again? Go back to being nothing but a shadow on the wall. I don't care if you were ready to sink into obscurity. I won't let you." Jayce stated, his eyes burning into Viktor's. "You will remain by my side and I'm going to make you keep up." Viktor stared at him and his shoulders scrunched up. That kind of determination was... unnerving. He stared at the ground before replying that Jayce did not control him like that. The way Jayce stared at him in silence for a moment made his body go cold and he hesitantly took a step back. "I carved the Runes and that body is my creation. Do you plan on leaving again? Falling again?"Viktor stared at him and he paused as he realized something wet was running down his face. He raised his hand up to his eyes and wiped his tears. Jayce stared at him and he seemed to weaken before looking to the side. "I, uh..." He furrowed his brow, swallowing quietly. He was struggling to say something again. He covered the lower half of his face, giving a heavy exhale. "I know... I forced this life on you. But I am trying to make it... worth it." The Hexcore crackled and Jayce's voice instantly became sharp. "I am trying in the only ways I know how. This fucking terrifies me!" He snapped. The Hexcore gave a dry, multi-layered laugh.
He is awful at this. Does he not always run at the first sign of turmoil? He has left us by ourselves more than once in this regard.
And it was right. "Do... the ways involve leaving me by myself for days at a time after any kind of dispute? Or keeping me locked up like some kind of glorified pet? Or maybe even speaking of me like I am simply something you own? The body is of your creation, Jayce, but that doesn't mean I am. I have existed since before your birth. You did not create me. And you do not own me. Why will you not speak to me like I am an equal unless it is through pleasure or I am spectral? As soon as I was forced into this body, you changed towards me." Viktor's shoulders sank. "But you know that, don't you?""I don't do that. I don't talk about you like that." Jayce said firmly. Viktor scanned him over quietly. Jayce met his eyes and uncertainty was slowly replacing his anger. "I... I don't." Did he even know? Viktor paused as the Hexcore crackled and Jayce stiffened up. "Don't use my voice. Stop." His eyes went wide and Viktor saw his hands start to tremble. "That's not what I meant when I said that. Stop. I didn't say that. Y-You're just making things up!" Jayce looked shaken. "Stop!" The crackling ceased and it was silent. Jayce finally turned away, holding a hand up to his head. "...I just want to take care of you and have you rely on only me. But I have never felt like this and I don't know what to do." He squeezed his eyes shut. "It's messing with my head. It's messing with the urges. They've become stronger. More twisted. The things I want to do make me sick." Viktor's shoulders sank. "...Can we please just talk at the lab?? I'd rather not... do this in the hallways of the Council building." He glanced over. "We can talk more at the lab." Jayce offered his arm, seeming slightly defeated. Viktor hesitated before moving forward and taking it. He kept quiet expect for the taps of the cane. They weren't going to talk. Jayce would be sure the conversation was done.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor watched as Jayce removed the broken casing from the stand on the lab desk. He could hear the Hexcore let out a small sigh of relief and he reached up, unclipping it from his hair. "Here." He placed it in the center of the stand before plugging it back in. Instantly, the bottom of the stand lit up and it was followed by that cracking that made Viktor flinch a little. He watched as the Hexcore restructured itself back into that sphere shape, slowly rising up into its usual hovering position. It started to spin again and Viktor heard Jayce scoff. "Let's not take the sentient doorway to the Arcane on any more adventures for a bit." Jayce commented, rolling his eyes as he moved away with the casing. The Hexcore crackled and Jayce glanced up. "What? Is 'window' a better term?" He jumped, hopping to the side as a bolt of electricity nearly hit him from the stand. He stared at it for a moment. "...You're stronger. How are you able to reach that far out of the stand?" The Hexcore didn't seem to answer him and Jayce furrowed his brow. Viktor glanced back at him before asking quietly if he could have normal clothes. "...Right." Jayce was still watching the Hexcore quietly, but he seemed to relent and turned away. He left the lab, likely having to fetch something Viktor's size from somewhere else in the building.
You said you trusted me. Is that true??
The Hexcore still sounded hesitant and a small bit shocked. Viktor paused as he glanced over at it. "I do. You have not tried to escape, nor have you shown me hostility of any degree. Simply just attitude." Viktor gave a smile as he heard the Hexcore scoff.
So will you broaden our connection?
Viktor paused before glancing up at it. He scrunched his shoulders a little. "If you are suggesting I touch you in your base form, you must recall that I am synthetic. I do not know how it would affect the body and I worry for that. What if your energy traps me inside it and burns my spirit away?" He was anxious as he spoke. "What if this... becomes me?" The thought scared him again as well. The Hexcore hummed.
Being alive again. Truly alive... It would scare you that much?
It sounded slightly confused by this and Viktor stared at it before turning his head away, unsure if he would be able to explain why it did. "It feels... like I do not deserve it. Both in the fact that I have not earned it and that... it is something of a punishment for ending my first life so prematurely." Viktor admitted, glancing up at it. The Hexcore warbled.
If you let me in, I could help. We can shift the body to something of your liking. Something that is less his and more yours.
It sounded soft and insistent, Viktor's eyes falling to the desk.
You said so yourself. He treats you differently because of this body. If you can take control of what he's done, you will not have to feel trapped. You can be alive again on your own terms instead of someone else's.
"Would it not be on your terms if I agree?" Viktor asked, glancing over at it.
I am simply helping. I don't want to control you. You taste far too good and you have been far too kind for doing that to make sense to me. I see no need for it. You showed me things I wouldn't have been able to witness if it was just him.
Viktor was still unsure about that. The Hexcore had certainly never been malicious towards him and it did sound genuinely grateful that he'd brought it out beyond the lab. "And what exactly would happen, should I touch your energy directly?" He asked, his fingers curling on the desk in front of him.
I would infuse myself into bits of you. Your blood and your heart. Your eyes and your bones. My power would allow you to control Runes in ways he cannot. It is relieving you are synthetic, as it would be almost painless. If you were organic, it would have left you in agony.
Viktor felt a chill as it spoke, glancing up again. "You would become parts of me... physically." He stated, needing clarification as he stared into that glowing purple light. The Hexcore rumbled.
I know how it sounds, but I see it as a way for me to experience a flawed existence. Something human. I could eat through you. I could sleep through you. I could live through you.
The Hexcore sounded hushed with excitement, the mere thought of being able to properly eat and sleep fascinating it. "And you would want a flawed existence? You complain often to me about it." Viktor stated flatly.
But you taste warm more than you taste sour. I want to know why. I want to see why and I want to feel why. Everyone has told you your kind heart is too open, but I want to experience it. Viktor. Please.
The Hexcore's multi-layered voice became slightly desperate and Viktor stared at it quietly. He glanced back towards the door, asking why it hadn't tried to proposition Jayce.
You believe he sees me as you do? He sees me as 'living'. But you? You see me as 'alive'.
"Because I know you to be alive. A magic like yours is naturally occurring, woven within the fabric of the world. I can't imagine there would be anything more... 'alive' than that." Viktor had spent much time reading through Jayce's journals during the week he'd been gone to understand the Hexcore better. He'd even read some of it out loud to the other and the Hexcore had even been surprised by the things Jayce had managed to notice of it. There were things it likely hadn't even realized about itself that Jayce had taken note of. The Hexcore let out a choral, haunting laugh that Viktor was very much used to.
That sounds like flattery! You are not usually so gracious. I'm honored.
It spoke in a playfully jabbing tone and Viktor rolled his eyes. Despite the joking, he was so anxious, he felt like he was going to be sick. This would be letting the Hexcore into him. Something unknown and... arcane. And even still, it was into a synthetically made body. Who was to say that the Hexcore would not just assume control of it?? Push him down? Lock him away?? Viktor's hand raised to his chest, his heart having sped up. The Hexcore spun in place, warbling.
We both know what it is like to be held within confines. What it's like to be trapped. I would not do that to you. I want to connect with you. Trade some of my power for a perspective. I want to protect you, as you have protected me... Except mine will actually be effective and necessary.
Viktor paused and glanced up, scoffing at it in disbelief. "M-My apologies for trying to protect you then!" He exclaimed. The Hexcore rumbled in amusement. Viktor knew he'd stepped between Jayce and the Hexcore more than needed. The Hexcore continuously told him that it wasn't necessary and it would easily defend itself, if need be, but Viktor... Viktor stepped in front of it anyway. He couldn't help it. "When he threatens to destroy you, I become anxious. You say so easily that you can defend yourself, but who is to say he does not have a contingency?" Viktor lowered his voice. "He is a clever man, despite his other behavior. You truly do not think he would be prepared?"
Which is also why I feel this connection would do us both good. If he were to destroy this core of mine, a piece of me would remain within you. A way to keep me tethered so I can continue watching a curious world.
Viktor's eyes softened as he stared at the desk. "Our... 'flawed world' does not bore you? What happens when you become tired of it?" Once you brought me from this case, I saw there was more to this world than this room. I had grown tired of it before, but there are things I haven't seen yet. Things you haven't seen yet as well. Viktor's shoulders had sunken into a relaxed position and he gave a small sigh, tucking some of his hair behind his ear. "You trust me so much to carry a piece of you? You would risk abuse of your abilities?"
You are the last person I imagine would abuse my abilities. Especially with that bleeding heart of yours.
Viktor paused and glanced up at it. Even if he knew such a thing to be true, it still hurt when he heard it. The Hexcore gave a small rumble.
With me, we can remedy that. I can make you tougher, while you soften me in turn. Truly, I believe this connection would do us both good.
The Hexcore was clearly trying to not let its eagerness show in its voice, but it wasn't doing a very good job. It was curious. Not only did the Hexcore want to remain alive, but it... It wanted to have a human perspective? It wanted to participate instead of watch? Was that wise to allow it to do that? Especially in a body like his. Viktor's fingers were lightly trembling against the desk. If there was one thing that he'd been certain Jayce was being genuine about before, it was his warnings to never touch the Hexcore with his bare hands. Not while it was was in its pure, base form. That inviting such a thing into his body was... reckless. Which was huge a thing to say, coming from him. It was why Viktor had barely taken him seriously before. But now, he could see it. "I... would be putting all of my trust in you if I were to do this. I do not know if I could ever forgive you, should you betray it. You have seen my mind. My thoughts. My memories. To allow you full access to such things, along with my physical body..."
It is terrifying, I know. But I see more benefits from this than I do detriments.
"Which is what you would say if you were just trying to get me to do it." Viktor said doubtfully. The Hexcore hummed, seeming unbothered by his wariness.
It is your choice, Viktor. I would not force this upon you. Your permission is important to me. Your acceptance.
Viktor scrunched his shoulders up quietly. The Hexcore had been nothing but respectful of his space and privacy ever since he'd taught it that it needed permission to do things to people. He glanced up. This body... Would he be able to dismantle the Runes on himself without injury?? He could use Runes without them being attached to his physical person?? He would have power and a... likely permanent companion. He gave a small sigh through his nose before lifting his hand. When his fingers passed over the threshold of the stand, the Hexcore made no attempt to move towards them. Truly, it was letting Viktor make this decision. Viktor could already feel the tingling against his fingertips and he parted his lips in a quiet exhale. He heard the door open behind him. "VIKTOR!" He ignored Jayce's immediate yell, only focusing as he settled his fingers on the surface of the Hexcore and that purple glow suddenly erupted up his arm and through his body. All of his senses were stolen from him at once and he collapsed in a silent, inky darkness.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Three seconds of nothingness. Three seconds of complete and utter nothingness.Viktor was floating somewhere. Breathless. Drowning. He couldn't breathe. He couldn't see. It was so... heavy. Something suddenly took him by the hand and pulled him upwards. Viktor gasped for air, coughing as he was pulled into a loose hug. He'd been dragged up from underneath that reflective ground in that purple-tinted place. He watched as the ripples spread across the entire expanse. He was still struggling to breathe and he heard those many, many voices shush him quietly. He kept twitching and it felt like electricity was shooting through his body. Every so often, a part of him would give a spasm and Viktor could only cling to the shape in front of him.
I know. I know, I am connecting to your systems. Nervous system. Muscular. Cardiovascular. Skeletal. I will be able to feel as you do.
The Hexcore sounded excited as it held him. Viktor inhaled shakily, squeezing his eyes shut. While it didn't exactly hurt, it felt exactly how he would imagine being a piece of clay molded by massive fingers would feel. Something kept squeezing and smoothing and shaping every part of him and he felt like he could barely breathe from it. Good gods, if he'd been organic in any way, he could only imagine the agony. The Hexcore rubbed circles on his back. He heard it make a small noise of surprise as he clung to it tighter, another spasm rocking his body. It is my first time connecting like this as well. I am also being molded to your shape, as you are being molded around mine. But this will help me to properly fix that leg of yours. It will no longer be stiff. The Hexcore sounded relieved about this, clearly having been frustrated over it. When it had healed his leg, Viktor had been able to walk on it and apply pressure, but his leg had felt so stiff that he may as well have just walked with the cane again. Viktor gave a weak laugh. "Do not raise my hopes up. You could leave it stiff because I happened to annoy you a little too much one day." He heard the Hexcore laugh quietly, though it was still just as unnerving.
I only save such treatment for Jayce, unless you are scheming something truly unbearable.
Viktor gave a small laugh before his eyes drifted away. Right. Right! His eyes widened and he pulled back. "J-Jayce came back! He did not try to interfere, did he?? Touching me wouldn't have broadened his connection with you, would it?? He wouldn't have wanted that!"
Indeed, he pulled you from me near instantly. But I only need three seconds to spread. By the time he grabbed you, I could force my energy beneath your skin so it wouldn't affect him. However, doing so did leave you with a rather nasty nosebleed, which I apologize for. Along with other... undesirable effects. And then he screamed at me. He tasted so, so rotten and I had never heard him so furious. I had to incapacitate him since he even approached me with truly malicious intent.
Viktor's eyes widened. "You didn't-"
I did not kill him. No, I wouldn't do that to him. Despite my grievances with him, he is my creator. He is the reason I have been brought to this curious world and I am not so ungrateful as to ignore that. Not to mention, I would not do that to you either. I sense that confusing affection for him. I wouldn't tamper with it. He is simply incapacitated. He has been unconscious for several hours, as have you.
Hours?? "It is not sunrise, is it??" Viktor asked in alarm. "M-Miss Merdarda is to have her important meeting, I must help her." The Hexcore shook its head and Viktor could see that it remained in Jayce's form, though it seemed as if it were struggling to do so. Viktor furrowed his brow and reached up to it, his glowing white hands lightly framing its face. "What's happening to you?" The Hexcore seemed confused by his question before reaching up and touching at its own face. It seemed to finally click.
Ah, since I am fully connected with you, the base form I would now take would be yours. However, I do not wish to scare you. You still find this form most attractive. Even more so now.
Really?? Viktor felt heat spread across his face, even in this purple-tinted place. "It... does not hurt you to hold his form??" He questioned, not wanting the Hexcore to strain itself, especially after the clear effort it was going through to meld to the systems in his body. He had a feeling that this would've been easier for it if he had been organic. The Hexcore shook its head, rolling its eyes with a dismissive wave of its hand. Viktor sighed, both of them sitting on their knees in front of each other. He gave a weak sigh. He couldn't keep his mind from going back. "...Did he think you pulled me in? Did he understand this decision was of my own volition?"
Of course he thought I pulled you in. He called me things I had never heard before, though I am quite sure they were all derogatory. He became even more irate when I stated that I had let you make the decision. And he'd said that you would never choose to do that. He only threatened me once I asked how he knew so little about you. I do not think it has quite processed for him that we are only close because he kept running away.
"...You believe us to be close?" Viktor asked in a vaguely teasing tone, glancing up with a weak smile. The Hexcore let out a magnificent scoff, instantly crossing its arms.
I am currently infused within your systems, with your permission, I might add, and you would still ask me that! I would hope us to be close, otherwise it means I have done something incredibly terrible and this misunderstanding would certainly go down in your human history books!
Viktor finally broke out in quiet laughter. It was the best he could do through his slight stress of the whole situation. It seemed the Hexcore recognized that as well, though it wouldn't say anything. Viktor's laughter finally became a little strained and he raised a hand to his head, burying his face in it. "...I hope I did not just make a mistake on both of our ends. If I am not able to handle your power, I-I fear I may have endangered both of us. And... And Jayce... He will understand once he is past the initial shock, right? Or he will be... quite upset with me..." Viktor's voice weakened. "This decision was weighted and I do not know where the balance lies. I am praying I did not just put us all in danger." He was already shaking, the fingers on his other hand curling into the reflective ground. "If your shell is to be destroyed and if this body is to die as well, what will become of you??"
Obviously, I would cease to exist here. However, with a piece spread to you, I now have two chances to remain in this world instead of one. And, surely, you don't think I am as naïve as to hand my power over to someone I don't believe could wield it. Perhaps you are spending too much time with Jayce if you think I am that doe-eyed!
Viktor paused and glanced up at it, surprised. A smile pulled at his lips and a laugh soon followed as he moved his hand down to hide it. "You have truly been learning most of your vocabulary from him, despite us being together longer?"
His vocabulary is much more interesting. It is the non-formalities he knows that interest me. You have had to hide yours in order to blend into the community you had. He did not choose to do so at all. He carries strange metaphors and he only learns his well-spoken words from his elite peers. I have heard him whenever he would 'have an easier time shoving four unpeeled lemons down my throat before I figure out this damn equation', or when he drops something on his foot. His vocabulary is... amusingly colorful. One of the few reasons he still entertains me.
Viktor laughed softly. He shifted before freezing up as he saw his legs. The gold cracking had spread. It was over both legs now, stretching all the way down to his ankles. He furrowed his brow. "What-" When the Hexcore interrupted, it sounded vaguely humiliated.
That was my mistake. I admit, I was... panicked when he came to pull you away. When I forced myself under your skin, your legs... I told you, some outcomes of that were incredibly undesirable...
The Hexcore trailed off and Viktor glanced up at it in alarm.
I did fix them! I did, I pieced them back together, as I did before. You will have legs and you will be able to walk.
Viktor hesitated, actually able to hear... a tremor. He glanced up at the Hexcore. "...You are worried." He said after a moment. The Hexcore startled and it looked as if it wanted to argue before it turned its head to the side. Even the loudest of its voices were softer than usual. I must reiterate, I have never done this. I have never opened a connection like this. I have never willing placed a piece of myself within another. I know I seemed eager. I was eager, but... Admittedly, I am as new to this as you will be. In theory, you will be able to control Runes. In theory, I will be able to experience things through you. In theory, this connection should result in something symbiotic rather than parasitic. I am not a... scientist as you both are. I am barely even of your world. Viktor stared at it quietly. It was the first time he'd heard the Hexcore doubt itself. He hesitated before moving forward. He reached up and pulled it into a hug, the Hexcore felt startling before it relaxed and accepted it. "...I believe showing this side of you is what will make Jayce believe you are alive instead of living."
Viktor, I would rather shatter in the darkest pits of the known universe than show these feelings to him.
The Hexcore spoke so flatly and seriously that a snort erupted from Viktor. He covered his face to muffle his laughter as he pulled back from the Hexcore. The Hexcore rolled its eyes, shaking its head as it looked to the side. It clenched its jaws as it stared off and Viktor paused, his smile fading as he tipped his head.
I know he said that of me. I see it in your memories. He told you I am malicious and manipulative. I wonder if it's simply his distrust for everything around him. I was brought to a world I have only ever existed in the threads of. I want to see more. I want to feel more. Perhaps my questioning of it was too suspect for him. With how guarded he was, I... expected similar from you. But you weren't. You were different. And I see... everyone is different here. Could I be different too?
Viktor stared at it before managing a weak smile. "Do be careful." The Hexcore glanced up at him. "Such a thing makes it sound as if you wish to be flawed as well." The Hexcore's eyes widened and it seemed momentarily shocked. Not by what Viktor had said, but he had a feeling a realization had just struck it. Three seconds of silence. The Hexcore suddenly seemed to have a second realization and turned to him. It beckoned him closer and Viktor paused before moving over. He startled as the Hexcore placed its fingers on his head and slid them back, dragging them through his glowing white hair. The motion ended at his shoulders and Viktor was left momentarily stunned as he asked what that was. The Hexcore paused. ...Promise you will not freak out. Viktor paused and stared at it before furrowing his brow. "Why?" The Hexcore glanced to the side.
It's alright, I just fixed it. But... When I infused myself into your skin, the synthetic makeup of your body took to me well... except for...
The Hexcore paused. Three seconds of silence. ...The energy burned all your hair off. Viktor was silent for a moment as he stared at it before the word exploded from his throat before he could stop it. "WHAT??"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
How fast the Hexcore pushed him out of its spectral plane after that would've made Viktor burst into laughter for a good few minutes if he wasn't robbed of breath the moment he opened his eyes. He was greeted with the dark ceiling of the lab and he started to cough violently, managing to roll over on his side before becoming sick. It... Viktor could only stare at the glowing purple liquid for a moment. He was on the window seat again, having been laid on a blanket, on his back. He dragged in shaking breaths, his body trembling. His body felt raw and tender. He was... Viktor paused. He was also bare besides his undergarment. His face flushed and he glanced up. Mel's dress was folded messily on the desk. The... Viktor stared at the Hexcore quietly. It didn't look any different, spinning and hovering in place. Its glow continued to illuminate the darkened room. The purple liquid he'd just expelled remained above the wooden floor, like oil to water. Viktor inhaled shakily. He started to push himself up and a sharp noise of shock left him as his arms gave out, leaving him on his elbows again.
Don't move so fast. The equivalent of three strikes of lightening just went through your body. You need a moment to recover.
That voice didn't sound like it was in his head anymore. He glanced up at the Hexcore. It sounded like it was actually speaking from across the room. There was distance. There was a slight echo. He was momentarily speechless. He furrowed his brow as he scanned over the lab. "...Jayce?" He asked after a moment.
On the floor here.
Viktor's eyes moved to the floor and he finally saw Jayce splayed out on the floor closer to the lab door. It looked as if he'd been knocked out. He was still in his Councilor attire. Viktor furrowed his brow and opened his mouth again.
I had to momentarily pilot your body to get that off of you. I know she said she didn't want it ruined and you did have quite the nosebleed. I did my best to fold it. It was... quite difficult to control your limbs when you were being affected by electricity. Jayce has been out cold since he approached me.
Viktor finally managed to sit himself up. His eyes widened as he saw his legs, his fingers pressing against his lips in shock. Both of his legs had those gold cracks, though it seemed they'd been warped to look a little more like that webbing he'd been affected with upon his first contact with the Arcane. The skin on both his legs, from his toes to his waist had all turned a gradient of lavender, growing darker closer to the pelvis. Viktor stared at them. He slowly reached out, his brow furrowed. He traced his fingers over the skin quietly. The Hexcore spoke again from across the room.
Bits of your appearance had to be altered, as a result of my... rash decision to push under your skin. But I have fixed each one to the best of my ability.
Viktor paused before reaching up. When he touched his hair, he nearly jumped out of his damn skin as he felt real pulling on his scalp. He covered his mouth with wide eyes. That hair did not feel synthetic. He hesitated and reached up again. The hair went down to his shoulders and he paused before holding a piece of it out. From his roots to about two inches from the ends, his hair donned a vaguely pink-tinted white. The last two inches were a beautiful gradient purple. Viktor could only stare for a moment.
Your eyes as well. They... ruptured when I... Needless to say, you may need a shower.
The Hexcore finally came to a conclusion as Viktor felt at his face. He could feel the dried blood coming from his nose and he could feel it staining his cheeks. He had new liquid on his chin from his sick and he furrowed his brow. Yes, a... a shower would be in order. Viktor slowly angled himself before stepping over the glowing, coagulated liquid next to the window seat. His heart was heard pounding, though each beat was a little slower than his usual rate. He held a hand up to his chest in slight worry. He hesitated before slowly placing his feet down and pushing himself up. Viktor nearly fell from how easy it was and he had to take a moment to steady himself. He inhaled shakily, lifting his formerly bad leg. There was... no stiffness. Relief and disbelief filled his chest and he quickly moved forward. His steps were stumbling, but he gained control of them and broke out in laughter. "Th-There is no stiffness! My steps are not disjointed!!" He exclaimed, turning to look back at the Hexcore with wide eyes. It did a spin in its stand.
Good gods, finally!
It sounded both relieved and annoyed. Viktor's heart had sped up again, but it wasn't painful. He paused and moved over to the door. There. He found the clothes Jayce had been bringing him, kneeling down and scooping them up. Bending his leg. Bending his leg with no issue?? Thrilling. He kept taking in soft, excited breaths. The Runes in his body now glowed purple instead of blue. He gathered up the clothes carefully. The collared shirt was a deep red and the pants were grey. It was the first time he hadn't seen gold in one of his outfits and he tipped his head in surprise. He stood back up and glanced over at Jayce, who was still unconscious on the ground. He... would wake him after his shower. He knew Jayce didn't have quite as visceral a reaction to his colored blood, but he was sure he still didn't look ideal. Viktor made his way towards the bathroom before pausing. "...Are you going to be able fo feel the water?" He asked after a moment, looking back at the Hexcore.
I hope so. I've been so curious.
It did sound eager and Viktor gave a small smile. He moved forward, slipping into the bathroom and shutting the door. He turned on the light and froze as he saw himself in the mirror. He hesitated before approaching it. Translucent splashes of blue, pink and purple vaguely decorated the pale skin of his hands. His hair was, in fact, that pink-tinted white, but the ends looked as if they'd been dipped in purple and a deep pink. His eyes were... The irises were pink and he tipped his head before backing up. Sure enough, right around his navel, his skin deepened into a dark lavender before growing lighter the further the color stretched down his legs. His legs and his one arm were webbed in that metallic gold, though it still seemed to be a part of his skin, as opposed to just laying atop it. "Did you choose these colors, or are they naturally occurring? This palette is... I never would've... expected this of me." He was vaguely in awe. The Hexcore's voice finally returned to his head. When it spoke, the voices were clearer than ever. He swore he could even pick out individual ones.
I was panicking far too much to handpick colors like that. If I am correct, these are all colors that exists within the Arcane itself.
Viktor only stared at himself a few moments longer before nodding. He set the clothes down and moved over to the shower. He turned it on and he heard the Hexcore let out a fascinated rumble. That sound is soothing. Rhythmic. It seemed the Hexcore liked the pattering noise of the water. Viktor smiled quietly. He hesitated before pulling off the final cloth covering him. To his slight relief, it didn't seem as if it were affected, other than... Viktor's face heated up. The base of his length was that deep purple, but it lightened until his tip was a rosy lavender. He covered his face, very much embarrassed by this. He allowed his gaze to move up and he finally settled it on the Rune that rested on his navel. It glowed under his touch and he gave a small shiver, quickly pulling his hand away. He didn't want to activate any of those right now. It was really...? Viktor paused before reaching up. He hesitated before pressing his fingers to the back of his neck. Instantly, he yelped as he felt someone pull him into a desperate hug, that nose burying against his shoulder from behind. It felt... magnified. Good gods, why did this manifestation feel so desperate?? He startled as one of the hands suddenly slid down his body, causing heat to explode across his face.
Oh. I will wait for you to be finished. I do want to experience a shower.
What?? Wait. Wait! Viktor jumped as he felt the Hexcore's presence pull back. Be finished?? He gasped as he felt that hand wrap around the base of his length. Right now?? Really? He shuddered and he had to lean his arms against the wall to support himself. The other hand slid up and Viktor gasped as he felt it drag through his hair, making him tip his head back. He could feel his hair tug on his scalp now. "Hah!" He covered his mouth in shock. The Rune's actions were slightly more aggressive now, but they were also exploratory. Like they were studying his changes. It struck Viktor that maybe he wanted Jayce to study his changes like this and the thought brought an absolute rush of burning heat to his whole body. His thighs twitched and he shrieked a little as he felt one of those hands slip under his length and roughly start to grope between his legs. "Ah! W-Wait! Wait, oh gods..." Viktor could barely get out the words as he covered his mouth. That was doing it. He was becoming stiff and he scrunched his shoulders up as he felt those lips against his shoulder, mouthing something into his skin.Fascinating. Beautiful. Look at you. Captivating. Ethereal. Beautiful. Viktor shook, finally burying his face in his arms as he leaned against the wall with his back arched and his legs ever so slightly spread. He felt exposed and sinful in this position as those large hands worked him over. They kept stroking through his hair with just enough roughness to slightly tug it and when they moved down, they would give his hips and thighs squeezes. Good gods, one of those hands could almost wrap around his entire leg. Viktor gasped as he felt one of the calloused palms grinding back against his twitching length. He was hot to his shoulders and he swallowed heavily. Fuck, had he activated the Desire Rune?? Were they all dormant until he activated them?? "AH!" He gasped as he felt it grope between his legs again, giving him another squeeze. Tears pricked his eyes. His eyes widened and he shivered as he felt that breath on the back of his thigh. The manifestation had moved. Viktor swore as the breath moved from the back of his thigh to his front and he swore as he felt a tongue gingerly lap at his tip. "F-Fuck! Oh gods!" He covered his mouth as the lapping grew rougher and deeper until he could feel warmth enveloping it. He squeezed his eyes shut, small pants leaving him. Those hands were gripping the back of his thighs, the palms massaging into them. It was driving Viktor mad. When he felt the first squeeze of throat walls around his length, he made a filthy noise. He still didn't know if this was what it would feel like if Jayce ever indulged him like this. He didn't think he would. Jayce would rather die than show himself on his knees to Viktor now. Viktor couldn't help his hips, starting to weakly buck into the manifestation's throat. Gods, it felt so good. It felt so good. If anything, the sensations were, once again, amplified. He was quivering all over. "Oh gods. AH!" He suddenly released so quickly that it shocked him into absolute silence. He watched as his pink-tinted release coated the tile in front of him. He was panting heavily. He quickly reached up, whisking his fingers over the back of his neck and that ghostly manifestation disappeared. He moved it back around, covering his mouth with both hands now. He took a few steps back. That had felt... so good. Terrifyingly good. Good gods. Viktor quickly turned and climbed into the shower, letting the water wash the feeling of sin from him. After a moment, he could feel the Hexcore returning.
You taste sweet. I wonder why.
"Shush." Viktor stated quickly, burying his face in his hand. He shivered and moved back into the water a little more so the Hexcore would be able to feel it hitting his skin. The Hexcore suddenly let out an extremely pleased rumble. "It does feel nice." Viktor managed to say after a moment. The water was warm and slid down his body in streams. He finally started to clean his face before working on his hair. It felt so bizarre to feel the tugs and pulls as he lathered hair product in. It meant he actually had to be careful. He gave a weak scoff and closed his eyes. He tipped his head back, letting the product wash out of his hair as he ran his fingers through it. The Hexcore seemed to like that as well. He slid his fingers through a few more times before shutting the shower off. The Hexcore seemed less interested in him drying off and Viktor eventually felt it retreat back out of his mind once it became bored. He gave a weak smile, rolling his eyes. He dried himself off with the towel fully before reaching out to the clothes. He dressed himself before staring at himself in the mirror. He furrowed his brow. He looked so... strange. He reached up, gripping on his shoulders in worry. No, no, this looked awful on him. He was never usually one to care, but this... He furrowed his brow. His hand tingled and he startled as what appeared to be dark purple started to spread through the fabric, soaking away the red. "Oh!" He quickly pulled his hand back and it stopped spreading. The color cutoff was diagonal across his chest, half purple and half red. He... was manipulating color? He furrowed his brow, staring at his hands. His fingers were lightly shaking. Viktor furrowed his brow. He reached out and hesitantly touched the sink counter. Nothing happened at first. Three seconds. Viktor yanked his hand back as the very patterns of the marble suddenly seemed to restructure themselves into that familiar webbing. "Oh gods..." Viktor could feel his heart speed up in panic. His eyes were huge. Did... Did he warp everything he touched?? He glanced over at the shower. Everywhere he'd stepped seemed unaffected and the clothes on his body weren't changing. He opened his hands again, saying at his fingertips. He glanced around. He moved over to the shower curtain and reached out, placing his fingers on it. Three seconds. Even the smallest specks of beige in the curtain suddenly seemed to condense into swirls, leaving it white with a webbed, beige pattern. Viktor yanked his hand back and covered his mouth. This was not good. This... His heart had sped up a little and he hugged his hands against himself tightly. He couldn't touch anything. Not for longer than three seconds, at least. He hesitated and wrinkled his nose as a piece of hair got in his mouth. He shook his head before moving back over to the sink. He quickly picked up a hair tie and watched as the black slowly began to drain from it once he'd held it long enough. Luckily, its structure seemed safe and he started to put his hair up with shaky hands. He kept his bangs out on either side, but the ponytail behind him was a beautiful mess of pink and purple. He stared at himself quietly. He hugged his arms to himself, though he kept his fingertips ever so slightly lifted. This was terrifying. This was... He took in a shaky breath, holding a hand up to his head. It didn't seem to have any effect on his skin or hair. Viktor's heart was racing. He squeezed his eyes shut, calming himself with a few weak breaths. He scrunched up his shoulders before turning and opening the door to the bathroom. He kept his touch quick, making sure not to hold the door or the handle longer than three seconds. However, the moment the door clicked shut, Viktor felt a hand engulf his shoulder before he was thrown to the ground and a foot landed on his stomach, ripping a grunt from him. He stared up at Jayce in shock, the other seeming just as confused. Viktor startled as the Hexcore made a noise of interest.
Oh... Apples.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Apples?" Viktor echoed the word aloud before he could stop himself and Jayce furrowed his brow, asking what the hell he was talking about. Viktor hadn't even realized that he'd grabbed Jayce's leg out of shock until he saw the colors of his pants leg ever so slightly shift. He quickly yanked his hands back in panic. "G-Gloves!" He sputtered. Jayce only seemed to grow more irritated, starting to demand to know what was going on before jumping as Viktor finally yelled. "Jayce, give me some damn gloves!!" Jayce's foot instantly disappeared from his chest, the other hesitantly starting to dig around the lab with occasional glances back at him. Viktor hugged his hands against his chest again as he sat up. ...Corruption under your touch. This was... I didn't think that would happen. How long of a grace period before activation?"Three seconds." Viktor replied, looking up at the Hexcore in slight panic. His heart was racing. "I-Is there any way to control it or I just can't touch anything directly ever again??" Viktor startled as the black gloves he'd been wearing the night before were thrown to him. He hesitated before pulling them on. They only covered his fingers and stretched halfway down his palm. Three seconds. The color started to drain from them and they were left white. Viktor could only stare for a moment before shakily stretching a hand out to the wooden floor. He rested his gloved fingertips upon it before waiting. Three seconds... nothing. "Fuck." The noise of relief Viktor was made almost degenerate as he buried his face in his hands. He startled and backed up as there was a loud slam. Jayce had smashed his fist into the desk as he glared at him. "What the fuck is going on, Viktor?!" Jayce's eyes were guarded and furious as he scanned him over. "Are you still Viktor?!" He demanded next. Rotten.The Hexcore sounded disappointed again. Viktor pushed himself back slightly before pausing. "O-Of course I am, are y-" He was staring at Jayce intently and he hesitated as his vision suddenly shifted. Viktor flinched and held his head. There... were symbols on Jayce. Glowing gold on his skin. On his left hip. Stamina Rune. On his right hip. Endurance Rune. Viktor almost would've laughed if it had not been for the final one. It was smaller. So much smaller and tucked away behind Jayce's ear like he'd been trying to hide it. And Viktor could see why. It finally clicked for Viktor on why nothing had seemed to improve after he'd returned to Piltover for Jayce's speech. "Jayce." He kept his voice as calm as he could, but it still shook. Jayce instantly narrowed his eyes. "Don't say my name like that. You will not look at me in disappointment when I came back to you doing the exact thing I told you not to and jamming your fucking hand into the Hexcore!!" Jayce's voice raised at the end and Viktor's vision shifted to normal as he flinched. "What is wrong with you?! I told you this thing was dangerous! I told you not to trust it! Why the fuck would you let it into your body??" Viktor almost made a joke right then and there about how Jayce and the Hexcore weren't so different then, but he curtailed from it. Viktor said his name again and Jayce only seemed to become more agitated. "No! Do not say my name like that, when you-" "JAYCE!!" Viktor finally raised his voice, seeming to shut the other up instantly. "This is n-not disappointment. This is betrayal." His voice strained. The Hexcore had become quiet....I see. Jayce only scoffed at him. "Betrayal?? When you look like that?? After disrespecting me by going against the one thing I had continuously warned you not to do?!" He threw his hands to the side in frustration as he glared at Viktor. "Why are you crying?!" Viktor hadn't even realized it, but it made sense. He inhaled shakily and buried part of his face against his half-gloved hand. "Y-You made me think... that all my work had meant nothing. That all my effort had meant nothing. And yet now, I see you with a Binding Rune carved behind your ear??" Viktor's voice shook and he watched as Jayce instantly froze up. "Y-You improved so much when the crystal Rune was taken from you. I liked your company. I liked you. I even wanted to see you again and I even took the first opportunity to do so, but as always, it appears that I AM THE FOOL!!" He yelled the last part at Jayce, who took a step back. "I shouldn't have let them return you to Piltover, where you could give into weakness and carve that Rune permanently back into your body! I-I am the fool!" Viktor buried his hands into his hair as tears ran down his face in streams. "You made me think I failed you, and in the end, you failed yourself and you fooled me." Viktor hiccuped, turning away. "You never wanted to get better. You couldn't even do it for me."
You were kind.
"I was stupid." Viktor answered, turning to look at the Hexcore before his eyes moved to Jayce again. "I was stupid to think you wanted to change." Jayce wouldn't answer and Viktor turned his head away, a stifled sob choking him for a moment. "...I am the fool. My trust never bears fruit." He shakily sank down, dropping into a ball and hiding his head under his arms. "I thought I just hadn't been enough, but you had sabotaged us the moment you were out of my sight again." Viktor slowly sat himself back down, his heart racing. He felt so cold and so hollow. Nothing but complete and utter betrayal. That was why Jayce's urges had never seemed to stop. Why he'd only seemed to get worse. He hadn't let himself be separated from his Rune. Viktor hiccuped shakily before raising his head. "Say something, Jayce." His voice was loud and cold, bordering on a tremor. Jayce was quiet. Three seconds of silence. "What do you want me to say, Viktor??" Jayce finally spoke again, his brow furrowed. Viktor stared at him through teary eyes for a moment. "Wouldn't an apology be quite nice? For fooling me? For betraying my kindness with that Rune?? For betraying my trust with this body?? For every fucking thing you've done to me since I met you??" Viktor's hands curled into the ground and he finally pushed himself to his feet again, stumbling before standing his ground. He was so worked up that he just felt like he was going to be sick again. Jayce started to argue that he'd just carved this marking the other day and Viktor felt a cold rush through his body as the colors in his clothes suddenly seemed to sink down into one another. Fresh tears erupted down his face and he interrupted Jayce's excuse instantly. "And now you lie to me again." Jayce started to protest he wasn't before Viktor turned to him. Viktor allowed the Hexcore to speak directly through him in his own voice, the Hexcore's chorus echoing it. "I see your memories, Jayce. The Endurance and Stamina Runes were branded to your hips out of desperation on one of your weaker nights in the forge. The Binding Rune was meticulously carved to be hidden and the skin around it has long healed over. It has been years for your Binding Rune. It has been months for the others." Viktor felt light-headed as the Hexcore retreated from his throat. He was breathing heavily. Jayce instantly shot a furious look at the Hexcore. "What you see in my memories isn't to be shared!" He spat. Viktor hugged himself quietly, shaking. His tearful eyes met Jayce's and he could see the conflict in them. "...I forgave you so many times. For so many things. I even forgave you enough to let you have your way with me." Viktor stated, his voice shaking as he pressed his hands to his body. "And now I just feel dirty and foolish." Jayce started to say he wasn't and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "Dealing with someone who wants to be saved, but does not want to be helped. What an idiot I am." He inhaled shakily. He started to move forward and paused as Jayce took a few steps back. Viktor looked him over as he wiped his eyes. "What?" He asked defeatedly. "Afraid now that the game is over?" His voice was slightly scornful. Jayce instantly narrowed his eyes in response, saying that wasn't what it had been. "It was clearly some kind of entertainment for you. Perhaps even a thrill. I bet you never let the Hexcore know why that Rune was hidden."
He certainly did not. I'm sorry, I would have told you about it sooner if I thought you hadn't known. The symbol is consistent in both of your minds. I thought it was some ritual of shared suffering.
Viktor shook his head. He reached out to the stand and he unplugged it, catching the Hexcore in his gloved hand. Jayce's eyes widened and he demanded to know what he was doing. The Hexcore began to shift and crack, Viktor feeling it restructuring right in his hand. It was finally that small bird again and Jayce seemed stunned as he stared at it. Right, Jayce had never seen this form before. Viktor held the Hexcore up to his shoulder, where it hopped up and held on. "Viktor. You can't just take that." Jayce's voice was shaking as he straightened up immediately. Viktor wiped his eyes one more time before giving a small shrug. He turned away and made it three steps before Jayce's hand grabbed him by the shoulder, yanking him back and throwing him against the desk. Viktor flinched, his shaking fingers holding onto the edge of it. "I said you can't just take that." Jayce's voice was cold and firm as he positioned himself between Viktor and the door. Viktor stared at him. His shoulders were sunken and his spine hurt from where it had hit the desk. He was sure to bruise. "I must see Miss Merdarda to discuss her meeting with Silco. She requested to see me in the morning." Viktor reminded him, his eyes lowered to the floor. Jayce immediately said he didn't have to take the Hexcore with him. The Hexcore hopped closer to Viktor's neck, felt pressing against it. Viktor's eyes met those furious golden-brown ones. He looked him over. "...And how would you wish to stop me? What do the urges tell you? Do you want to rip me open? Tear out each individual system until I am nothing but a mess of false flesh and wires? Until my fake blood paints every wall of this lab?? Will you rip my jaw off? Tear my eyes out? Dismember me?" Viktor took a step forward, the Hexcore hopping away as Viktor grabbed Jayce's hand and raised it up to his neck. "Is this what you want?? To see the vessels you built under my skin burst and the light to leave my eyes?? Is that what they're telling you? I bet they must all be so loud." Viktor's voice was shaking with pain. Jayce only stared down at him with shocked eyes, his whole body stiff. When Viktor released his hand, it remained around his neck for a second before he pulled it back. "Surely you have no limitations now. I'm just a piece of machinery. Nothing like the gore you get so sick of. You can tear me apart however you want." Viktor limply threw his hands out to the sides in frustration. He started to move past Jayce towards the door. Jayce instantly said his name in a warning tone and Viktor looked back at him. "What? I'll be coming back." His voice strained. "I always do, don't I? Like the fucking idiot I am?" He turned away and approached the door, pulling it open. He completely ignored Jayce's exclamation as he pulled the gloves off and placed his hands on either side of the doorframe. Three seconds. He felt it warp and the strong wood became putty beneath his fingers before he dragged them down, completely destroying and disfiguring the Runes, along with the actual doorway. Viktor moved out into the hallway, pulling his gloves back on. He didn't even care if it was going to be cold outside. He just wanted to be away from here. Away from him. Just until he could clear his head and calm down a little. The Hexcore hopped on his shoulder. ...I'm sorry, Viktor. Viktor shook his head. More tears were threatening to well in his eyes. He held up a hand, signaling that he would need a good moment before he was ready to speak again. The Hexcore settled on his shoulder. Viktor didn't even recall moving down the hallways, but the next thing he knew, he was opening the front door and... Viktor glanced up, wiping his eyes once more. It was snowing. He felt the chill sweep over his body, but he didn't care. He moved out of the building and into the streets, hugging himself as his footsteps crunched through the snow. He barely made it a few buildings up before the Hexcore spoke again.
He is following.
Viktor could hear footsteps approaching and a cloak was suddenly dropped on his head. He almost didn't want to put it on, but he knew the Hexcore could feel temperature through him now. He didn't want it to freeze. He slipped the cloak on thanklessly, continuing forward with the hood up. He could hear Jayce walking alongside him silently. It seemed he had the dress.
He is trembling. He is frightened.
"Not of me, nor for me." Viktor replied in a quiet puff of air. "...Just the snow."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The silence was deafening. The crunch of snow beneath their feet was so, so deafening. Jayce's breathing was so panicked and heavy that it almost irritated Viktor more than it worried him. They were approaching the doors to the Merdarda Estate and Jayce easily went ahead of him to speak to the guards. Viktor waited until the doors were open to take another step forward. However, it seemed that there was a bigger issue happening the moment they came inside. Mel appeared furious with Ambessa, who looked her over impassively with crossed arms. It seemed Mel was finally putting her foot down on telling her mother to leave, but the older woman also didn't appear to be listening. That young, slender man was with Ambessa, watching the two argue. He was actually dressed this time and his eyes moved over to Jayce and Viktor, seeming to perk with interest. Viktor heard Jayce give a quiet scoff before approaching Mel and Ambessa carefully. Viktor reached up, undoing his hair from the ponytail before guiding the Hexcore beneath it. He pulled his hood down and gave a weak sigh, his half-gloved hands absentmindedly running down his arm. "I'll be damned... Boy! Come here." Ambessa's booming voice caught his attention, sounding absolutely fascinated. Mel was staring at Viktor in absolutely open shock. Instantly, Jayce started to tell Ambessa that Viktor was likely dangerous and shouldn't be approached. She silenced him with one fierce look before her eyes moved back to Viktor. "Nonsense. I have seen horrors your young mind couldn't even imagine." She moved forward before beckoning to Viktor. He blinked before moving forward and standing in front of her. "No more limp?" She questioned curiously. "It appears not." Viktor replied, not flinching away from her touch this time. Ambessa hummed in interest as her calloused hand cupped his jaw. She looked him over before Viktor saw the other man appear next to her. She stated that Viktor was keeping her gaze this time and he paused before a smile slightly pulled at his lips, saying he wasn't in a rush this time. That seemed to get Ambessa's interest and she chuckled. "Has such soft coloring brought forth such confidence?" She asked curiously. Viktor blinked as she released his chin, the other man suddenly guided forward. He blinked in surprise before smiling and holding out his hand. "I think you two would get along nicely." Viktor paused before reaching out and shaking the man's hand with gloved fingers. "And I think the three of us would get along even better." "Mother." Mel's voice was sharp and disapproving. She seemed like she barely understood what was happening, though she was trying to get some control of the situation. Jayce, on the other hand, was absolutely rigid as he stared at them. Viktor heard the Hexcore make a small gagging noise and he could only guess what Jayce tasted like right then. Ambessa scoffed at Mel before turning back to him. She was introducing the man to him, but Viktor wasn't quite processing it. He came back to reality as the man's hand cupped his cheek. "I promise he'd be gentle and he would take quite good care of you." Ambessa said, chuckling. The man was looking him over and the clear attempt at seduction in his eyes made Viktor want to laugh a little. He smiled slightly. "Gentle? Would he really be so gracious to me?" Viktor stepped forward right into the man's space, pulling him down until their lips were inches apart. His eyes bore into the other's. "I am afraid gentle is not my pace." The man's face flushed a deep red and Viktor released him, pulling away. "I am afraid I must speak to Miss Merdarda about some pressing business... first." He added the word lightly and Ambessa's brows instantly shot up, a grin on her face. "Perhaps if I retain my interest after, General Merdarda." He gave a small bow before moving past her. Ambessa broke out in laughter. "Mel! I did not know you had such bold guests!" She said, sounding both amused and fascinated. Viktor gave Ambessa one more tip of his head before turning away. Mel had her hands tightly clasped in front of her, seeming shocked as Viktor moved past her as well. "...Neither did I." She responded after a moment. Viktor soon heard their footsteps move after him and Mel's voice instantly dropped to a hiss. "What happened?? Why is he acting like this?? What did you do??" She was clearly scolding Jayce, who was heard stumbling as Mel smacked his arm. Jayce immediately asked why she thought he did something. "He is quite obviously upset with you!" "How can you tell??" Jayce sounded genuinely confused about that. Mel let out a groan of frustration before Viktor felt her join him at his side. He glanced over at her quietly, giving a small sigh through his nose. "What did he do?" Mel asked, her brow furrowed. She looked him over and blinked a couple times. "This... appearance... What did you do, Viktor?" Viktor paused before stretching up his hand and lifting his hair. The Hexcore hopped out onto his shoulder and Mel jumped a little. "Oh... hello again." She greeted it quietly, Jayce heard going silent behind them. "I broadened my connection with the Hexcore. Jayce interfered and, in order not to affect him, the Hexcore had to force its energy beneath my skin which resulted in... many damages to my body. Including the losses of my... eyes, my hair, and my legs." Viktor sighed quietly. "Of which it had to replace." Mel stared at him in shock. The Hexcore hesitated before wiggling and hopping over to Mel's shoulder, making her jump. It settled down and her eyes softened on it before Jayce stated firmly for it to go back to Viktor. Viktor's lip twitched, but he held up his hand, the Hexcore begrudgingly moving back into it. Mel asked if he felt stronger. "I do. But this experience..." He raised the Hexcore up so they could look at each other. "It is new to the both of us. We are learning how we affect each other. I cannot touch things with my bare fingers longer than three seconds without warping them. The Hexcore is able to feel sensations like temperature now. I believe it is most excited to experience sleep." The Hexcore hopped around in his hand. Viktor's eyes kept flicking back to Mel, swearing that he could see sparks of gold fizzle over her skin out of the corner of his eyes. "And him interfering is what's upset you?" Mel asked, walking along beside him. Viktor met her gaze quietly. "No." He turned his head back slightly to meet Jayce's, making the other stiffen up. "What he's done is actually much worse and has been a source of conflict between us for quite some time. Something that makes me feel such intense regret for allowing him upon me that I feel..." He turned his head away. "Filthy." Mel's eyes widened as she glanced over at Viktor, clearly not having thought it was something that bad. And she likely felt some guilt too, since allowing Jayce to hold him had been a part of a plan she'd made with Viktor. Mel reached out and placed a hand on his arm in concern and Viktor gently waved it off. "Just another betrayal of my bleeding heart, Miss Merdarda. Nothing new." He inhaled quietly. "I am not here to bother you about personal issues. We must discuss your meeting with Silco." "Yes, of course." Mel replied, though she was still watching him in worry. Viktor chose to ignore it, turning his attention back to the Hexcore in his hand. He really did feel... disgusting. He felt as if he'd been dragged along like a marionette on partially broken strings. He'd been completely ready to accept that this reality was one he had to deal with because he had been the one to fail Jayce. But no. No, Jayce had betrayed him from the start and hadn't said a word. Viktor felt both messy and empty at once. He blinked as the Hexcore turned to face him.
Sour. You are unwell. How can we make this better right now? Is there anything to be done?
It sounded worried and slightly disgruntled. Viktor stared at it quietly before shaking his head. "Nothing will make this better right now, I'm afraid. Please do not worry yourself over it." He told the Hexcore softly. "I apologize for the sourness." Mel's gaze had moved over to him again and it was clear she really didn't like this situation. Finally, she stopped in her tracks and reached out, taking the dress from Jayce's arms. "Jayce, I need you to leave for now." She stated. "Frankly, this is a conversation that only needs to be held by Viktor and I." Instantly, Jayce began to protest and Mel held up a hand. "Is one person disrespecting me by refusing to leave my home not enough?" She asked flatly. Jayce stared at them and Viktor paused. Jayce's eyes were...
Rotten. Viktor! Viktor! Rotten!
Viktor instantly shoved the Hexcore into Mel's hands and moved forward to intercept Jayce's sudden footsteps towards them. Jayce jumped and his attention moved down to Viktor, who had his hand on his chest. Something in Jayce's eyes was flickering dangerously and his lips were slightly parted as he took in quiet breaths. "Don't." Viktor's voice was quiet. "The consequences would send you to the darkest pits. You know better." He heard Mel start to speak up, asking just what it was Jayce thought he was about to do and Viktor instantly shot a look back at her. Mel fell silent, furrowing her brow. Viktor slowly turned back to Jayce before jumping as Jayce's hand closed around his throat. Viktor instantly reached up, holding onto his wrist. He'd completely stiffened up. "Jayce!! Let him go this instant!!" Mel sounded shocked and Jayce could only stare down at Viktor. Jayce's grip on his neck was so tedious that one small squeeze would easily cut off his breathing. Viktor couldn't even swallow. Jayce suddenly pulled his hand back, his eyes wide. He moved backwards and Viktor started coughing, covering the lower half of his face. Jayce stared at him before quickly turning and moving down the hall so fast that he was bordering on running. Viktor felt a hand on his shoulder as he continued to cough. "Viktor! Viktor, oh gods-" "I-I am fine, Miss Merdarda." Viktor said after a moment, holding up his hand. He inhaled softly. "You aren't hurt?" Mel shook her head. "Jayce wouldn't dare hurt me." She said firmly. Viktor stared at her quietly. Mel met his gaze and it became slightly uncertain. "...He has a temper, I know, but I have never known Jayce to try and attack other people. Besides..." Viktor sighed. Him. Besides him. But that hadn't been the case here. "Jayce wouldn't have hurt me, Viktor." Viktor nodded, unable to meet her gaze. The Hexcore seemed to be struggling to return to him and he took it from her. Mel stared at him before glancing down the empty hallway. "Have you ever seen that look on his face, Miss Merdarda? Blank and singular? Expressionless and cold?" Viktor asked, glancing up at her. "It seemed as if that may have been a new expression for you." Mel seemed taken back by this. "You say he... has a temper. That he is a little socially inept. You turned a casually blind eye to the fact that he holds me hostage in one room the majority of the time." Mel paused before saying it was because of the body. "Ah, of course. The body he made for me. The body I didn't want. The body he forced me into. Of course. That body." Mel started to speak again, but Viktor held up a shaking hand. "All of this... it was just for progress, wasn't it? You need him, obviously. And, of course, he cannot bring you progress from a jail or a hospital. And who would believe that I exist at all? Some dead Academy student from decades ago? What nonsense." His voice strained a little. "I understand you need him, Miss Merdarda. That you are... obviously willing to overlook certain behaviors and... situations for the good of your city. And I believe you do understand there is something deeply wrong with Jayce." His voice was light. "However... I do not think you quite grasp just how much of a problem that is. The things he wants to do to everyone around him. The urges that he almost acted on right then." Viktor stated, pressing his gloved fingers to his own throat. Mel stated again that Jayce wouldn't have hurt her. "With that look? You have more faith in him than I, Miss Merdarda. And I've known him a little longer. He wants to hurt everyone. All the time. No one is safe from his urges. The ones I thought I quelled for him... and the ones he intentionally allowed back into his head." Viktor said quietly. He raised the Hexcore to his shoulder, where it hopped up and settled down. "...I am sorry that you had to briefly see that side of him again. It always seems to be me." Viktor started down the hall again. "Viktor... He would not have hurt me." Mel had sounded less and less sure every time she'd repeated it. Viktor stared forward for a moment. Hadn't he thought something like that once? Right before Jayce's hand had slammed into the desk next to his head so hard that it had splintered the wood? Right. He'd thought something along those lines once. Even now... Viktor's hand rose to his back, pressing against the aching section of his spine that had hit the desk. He stared at the ground and he heard Mel say his name one more time. "Of course not, Miss Merdarda. Surely he would never do that to you." He responded with a big smile. He turned away. "Let us hurry now and leave this topic behind. We have to talk about your meeting."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It came as a surprise to no one that Viktor hadn't 'retained his interest' for Ambessa's offer once he'd left Mel's chambers. Instead of disappointing her though, it seemed Viktor's disinterest only seemed to fascinate Ambessa more. Viktor had excused himself to allow Mel to look over the list he'd left behind. He couldn't stand being in the room with her anymore. He'd given her basic information. What points to bring up. What points to let Silco bring up on his own. Only appear stubborn, but not overconfident. He is easily amused by small quips if she can time them correctly. She had to treat him as if he were the most important clientele she was entertaining for the day. And lastly, most importantly, let Jinx visit him. Her absence scared Viktor deeply and that fear hadn't gone away. Once Viktor had, once again, slipped from Ambessa's grasp, he found himself back outside in the snow. Viktor moved forward slowly, holding the fabric of the cloak with his gloved fingers. He paused as he felt the Hexcore hop out from against his neck.
You are tired. And you are stressed. I am not sure if trying to watch the meeting from afar will do you any good. I know you wish to see them again, as much I wish to meet the ones you hold in such high regard, but you are tired, Viktor.
The Hexcore hopped along his shoulder. Viktor's chest squeezed unhappily. He'd just spent the past hours preparing Mel for the meeting, but she kept trying to bring up Jayce. Kept trying to get Viktor to talk about what he'd done. What happened. Viktor appreciated her worry and concern, but good gods, he did not want to talk about something so traumatizing and stressful before her solo meeting with the most dangerous man in Zaun! He knew she was trying to be something of a friend, but now was not the time and especially not when he was still so sore of her blind eye towards Jayce's treatment of him. He just had a bit of a temper?? Laughable. He was socially inept? An understatement. He paused as the Hexcore got his attention again.
Your hood, Viktor! You will get covered in snow and then you will be cold and I don't like cold!
Viktor stared at it before managing a weak smile. He reached up, shaking the snow off his head and pulling his hood up. Instantly, the Hexcore hopped over to sit inside of it. He had reached the street and he stared in the direction of the Bridge of Progress. He wanted to see them. He wanted to see them so badly and he wanted to go back to them. He hesitated before starting to walk in that direction.
Viktor!
"They are not to meet for another hour or so. I just want to see." Viktor said quietly. The Hexcore gave a dramatic groan. He moved along the streets quietly, finally coming to a stop once he saw the Enforcers at the end of the bridge. He turned the corner and started to follow along the edge of the wall encasing the river. He stared across the dirty water towards Zaun. His chest ached so badly and he finally stopped, coming to a halt right where he needed to be. He looked down and blinked in surprise. Right where his grave was, there seemed to be people. He wasn't sure who the others were, but one shape was undoubtedly...
Sevika?
The Hexcore repeated the name curiously. Viktor opened his mouth, but his voice caught in his throat. He inhaled shakily, covering his face and blowing out clouds around his hand. He could faintly hear talking, but they were far below him and he... Every time he tipped his head down a little too far, it was back to that night. It was back to that night and he saw the moon and touched the stars before his body kissed into the pavement. It made his head spin and he had to back up. He held his head, squeezing his eyes shut. When he moved back up to the wall, he jumped as a gunshot rang out, something whizzing past his head. "Get the hell out of here, Piltie! This is no place for you!" One of the figures yelled, not being anyone he knew. For a moment, Viktor was more than offended. He reached up and slipped off his hood, furrowing his brow. The one who'd fired at him gave a whistle. "Ooh, I didn't know Piltover had your types up there. My bad, beautiful! Wanna find your way down for us??" The other shapes piped up in agreement, but Viktor only steadied himself on the wall before taking a shaky breath. "Sevika!" He yelled down, making the last hooded figure whip their head up. The others fell quiet as she blew out smoke, her eyes wide. "Why are you smoking at my grave?!" Instantly, Sevika dropped her cigarette, staring up at him through the snow. Her foot crushed it after a moment to put it out and she moved over. "D-Don't! Don't. Not too close! I can't look down too far, it..." Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, holding his head. "Look at me!" Sevika's voice finally yelled back up at him and his eyes widened. He swore before peering over the edge of the wall at her. She seemed to be scanning his face over in confusion. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "Good gods, Sevika, you know how I died! Don't make me look down at you like this!!" He cried out. He saw Sevika finally back up a little so he wouldn't have to stare straight down. She pulled her hood off, holding her forehead for a moment before a smile finally broke out across her face. "Fuck, bookworm, why do you look like that??" She yelled out, barely suppressed laughter in her voice. Viktor heard the Hexcore scoff quietly.
What is wrong with your appearance?? I did my best!
Viktor gave a small wave of his hand. "A lot has happened!! Are you okay?? Are... Are they okay??" A bit of desperation crept into Viktor's voice and he saw that old warmth in Sevika's eyes, even from far above. "We nearly lost the brat! Singed had to bring her back with some experiment!" Sevika yelled up to him. "She's a little fucked up, but she's still with us!" Viktor's shoulders sank and his heart dropped. Jinx had nearly died?? And it had been so bad that Singed had gotten involved?? Silco had told Viktor a million times over that he would never trust Singed anywhere near Jinx. Viktor's fingers trembled before he called out again, asking about the other one. "He's been acting out! Getting his hands dirty more than usual and giving me a lot of shit!" Sevika crossed her arms. "Who's the asshole that's going to be meeting with him today??""It is Councilor Mel Merdarda! She has been working with me closely!" Viktor called out. "I have informed her of which particular issues you all addressed to me during our time together and she is to discuss them with him today! She, uh, she volunteered to do it!" Sevika scoffed in surprise and asked why the hell any of those porcelain doll Pilties would ever volunteer to do this. "The other option was Jayce." Viktor's voice faltered and he saw Sevika's smile disappear in almost an instant. "That is why she volunteered, Sevika." Sevika stared up at him before she spoke again, her voice having grown colder and more demanding. "What's he done to you, Viktor??" The fact that she could recognize something like that, even after their time apart, made Viktor's chest ache. He leaned against the wall and buried his face against his hand, managing a smile as he shook his head. "Viktor!" "Not right now! N-Not right now. Please." Viktor stated loudly, holding up his hand. Sevika only seemed more agitated by that, pacing below uncertainly. "Sevika, you and him must focus on this meeting. Miss Merdarda is willing to meet Zaun as far as the Council will allow. Perhaps there will..." Viktor inhaled shakily and gave a smile. "Perhaps we will see peace?" Sevika stared up at him. "Silco wants you back, bookworm." Sevika spoke again and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. That had been one of the things he'd been afraid of. He shook his head, saying they couldn't allow it. "If he can't give you back, then we should fucking kill him!" Sevika snapped. Viktor felt the first tears roll down his face and he wiped them. "Viktor. You don't belong over there. You have to come back to us." Sevika stated, her brow furrowed. Viktor wanted nothing more than just that. He wanted nothing more than to jump down to her right then and there so she could take him back to Silco and Jinx, but he couldn't. Not with Jayce already on the verge of snapping and the cities on the verge of what could be peace or ruin. Viktor's shoulders sank helplessly and he shook his head. "I need you tell Jinx that I was so worried for her. I need you to tell her that I'm happy she's alive." Viktor said loudly, making Sevika's eyes widen. She insisted that he could go with them now. That he could go see Jinx right now. "I can't." She demanded to know why and Viktor held his head. "You know why!!" He yelled back down, making her jump. He inhaled shakily. "M-My apologies. Sevika, there is nothing I want more than to come back to you all, but you know-" He cut himself off with a shaky breath. "You know." Sevika stared up at him before saying she would kill him herself. "N-Not before the Council votes on the conditions, at least!" He yelled back down. "They'll be doing that as soon as this meeting is over!" Sevika groaned, rolling her eyes. "Sevika!" She looked back up at him and he smiled. "I am so glad to see you again." Sevika paused and she gave a quiet laugh. It was warm and it filled Viktor's chest with warmth as well. "I'm glad to see you too, bookworm! And I'll be even better if we can work out some deal to get you back into Zaun! Even temporarily! You just aren't Piltie material!" Viktor laughed quietly. "Jinx is gonna love this look on you too!" Viktor felt incredibly warm and he heard the Hexcore let out a pleased rumble. "Sevika, stop smoking near my grave too! It's disrespectful!" Viktor finally yelled back down scoldingly. "And do not bring random people here! He's already dug me up once, does my grave need to be defaced any more than that??" Sevika stared at him before repeating in a shocked tone that Jayce had dug him up. "Yes, it was a year after he met me. Before I met you again." "...Viktor, we have to fucking kill this guy." Sevika stated in absolute disbelief. Viktor stared down at her and gave a helpless shrug. "...But not before peace." She sounded so angry about it, but relaxed when Viktor thanked her. She turned to her group. "Hey! We're leaving, pack it up!" The others groaned, but started to get up. "I'm only going to stop smoking here and only for you." Sevika yelled up to Viktor with a raised brow. "I don't want to hear a word about it anywhere else!" Viktor waved his hand at her dismissively, even if he felt like he was about to burst into tears. Sevika seemed to notice, her eyes weakening. "We're going to see you again, Viktor, you got that??" "I do! Please be careful. G-Good... Goodbye!" He struggled with the word for a moment and Sevika watched him with a warm scoff. "For now, bookworm!" She yelled back. She turned away and Viktor watched for a moment before pulling back from the wall and sliding his hood back up after shaking out his hair. He was warm all over, but he pulled his hands back beneath the cloak just in case. The Hexcore warbled softly.
You taste of warm maple. That was one of your... family...? Sevika. She appears quite tough, but her voice dictated she missed you greatly.
The Hexcore mused quietly, pressing against the side of Viktor's neck. "Y-Yes... one of my family." He managed in his strained voice. He started to move away from the bridge area, weaving his way through alleys and side streets until he emerged on the main one again, heading to the Academy. He had to keep wiping the tears from his eyes and he finally managed to make it back to the building. He slipped inside and moved through the halls before coming back to the lab. The door was slightly ajar due to the deformed doorway and Viktor felt a little bad about it. "Am I able to... fix things as well?" He asked the Hexcore, pulling off one of his gloves.
I have never tried to fix anything that isn't organic. Even then, my 'healing' could've used work. Perhaps you could mold it?
The Hexcore suggested quietly, still under his hood. Viktor reached up, placing his hand on the doorway. Three second of waiting. The wood started to sink under his fingers like clay and he carefully managed to push the doorframe back into shape. Slipping one glove back on, he held his hand there so the wood wouldn't droop back down. Once it had solidified again, Viktor reached in, carefully opening and shutting the door. It gave an awkward scrape along the top each time, but it was working. He gave a quiet sigh as he put on the other glove.
It is imperfect.
"Despite the evidence, I am not a machine. I cannot shape it back to the exact measurements. At least the door will close now." Viktor commented, moving inside the lab and shutting it once again. He turned away and froze in place as he met those golden-brown eyes. Jayce seemed like he'd been waiting for him in one of the desk chairs, his head leaned against his hand. "I didn't think you would actually come back." Jayce finally said after a moment. Viktor stared at him before turning his head away and giving another helpless shrug. "What else do I ever do?" He asked, a tone of bitterness creeping into his voice as he lifted the Hexcore into his hand and brought it back to the stand. It obediently began to restructure itself back into the sphere shape as Viktor plugged the device back in. Jayce stated that he could've ran. "Humor is not your specialty, Jayce." Viktor didn't even look at him. Jayce was being far too calm right now. "Are you not to be at the Council Chambers to vote once the meeting is over?" Jayce replied that he still had about an hour and a half left for an experiment. "Experiment?" Viktor asked flatly, glancing back at him. "Oh, do tell." "I want to study the changes the Hexcore made to your physicality." Jayce said, narrowing his eyes. "The changes it made to my creation." Viktor stared at him doubtfully, slipping the cloak off his shoulders. "...What an excuse." He said after a moment. Jayce's eyes sharpened into a glare and Viktor narrowed his own eyes in response. "I will only indulge you to keep that childish temper of yours in check. I do not want you to touch me. You will study from afar. Show better control than you did today in front of Miss Merdarda. Am I understood?" Viktor stated, his patience having run out. "...Crystal." Jayce let the word drop from his lips like venom. He pushed himself up from the chair. "Let's begin then."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor instantly halted himself in place as Jayce approached him. "No touching." He said firmly. Jayce replied that he wasn't, his lip occasionally twitching. His eyes moved over his hair and Viktor reached up, holding it out for Jayce to look at in slight annoyance. Jayce asked if it was real or synthetic. "I can feel it on my scalp whenever I pull it. I believe it to be real instead of that horrible doll hair you had on me before." Jayce replied flatly that he could've also left him with no hair at all. Viktor rolled his eyes, raising a brow as Jayce asked why the colors were like that. "The Hexcore thinks that these are the true internal colors of the Arcane. It said it had nothing to do with choosing the colors when it regrew my damaged parts." He heard Jayce pause. "These? The true colors of the Arcane?" He murmured, turning away and moving to the desk. Viktor blinked as Jayce picked up his most recent journal, opening to the fresh page and starting to scrawl information down with a new pen. "Pink, purple, and white?" He came back over before glancing up at Viktor. He met his eyes and furrowed his brow. "And blue." Blue?? Viktor paused before saying his eyes had been pink. Jayce stopped scribbling for a moment before reaching out. Viktor jumped as Jayce used the pen to lift his chin. "I know that look. I'm not touching you." Jayce muttered, scanning his eyes over. Three seconds of silence. Viktor gave a heavy exhale through his nose. "...Teal." Jayce pulled the pen back and seemed to write down the last word. Viktor reached a hand up, wondering if Jayce was serious about his eyes changing colors. He blinked as Jayce spoke. "You said your hair, your eyes and your legs." He gestured to his pants. Viktor instantly froze up and opened his mouth, but Jayce spoke again. "I made this body. Let me see what you did to it." That angry, cold tone only brought a slight ache to Viktor's chest. He watched as Jayce returned to the chair, sitting and facing him. Three seconds of tension.
Shall I go dormant for now?
"I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you." The grateful and gentle tone he took with the Hexcore only seemed to agitate Jayce. Viktor wasn't having the Hexcore look away because he expected Jayce would have his hands on him. No, he'd meant what he said. Jayce would have to study from afar. Jayce asked what they were talking about as the Hexcore's purple light seemed to dull down, leaving a mostly empty floating black sphere. "Ah, it is a concept that may be foreign to you. Respecting one's privacy?" Viktor stated in a light tone, Jayce instantly glaring at him and saying that he'd already seen both the inner workings and the surface of this body. That he'd been the one to make it and Viktor owed it to him to show him what he'd done to his creation. Viktor clenched his jaw as he undid his pants. He finally let them slide down and Jayce froze up. "The Hexcore said my legs shattered. It pieced them back together best it could. It did what you couldn't and it fixed my knee." He didn't break eye contact, Jayce keeping it as well."So you walk with no pain now? You had stiffness before." Jayce said. Viktor nodded, saying it was gone. "Good thing it only took the entire shattering of your leg to fix." He commented, making Viktor narrow his eyes. He stated that Jayce could've just given him a normal leg instead of building his disability into the body. "Anyway, it seems as if the pieces of your legs are held together by, uh, gold?" Jayce scribbled that down, completely ignoring Viktor's statement. Viktor slightly bristled at this. He sighed through his nose, his gloved fingers digging into the sleeves of his shirt. "How high up does the coloring stretch? Show me." The statement made Viktor pause and he hesitated before pulling up his shirt enough to show where the purple faded into pale around his waist. "And the coloring is everywhere?" He gestured with the pen and heat finally exploded across Viktor's face. "Blush is purple now. Blood is likely purple as well." "I do not think you have to look at that." Viktor stated firmly. His face only grew hotter as Jayce stated that he'd already seen it. Both active and inactive. Viktor's ears burned and he glanced off to the side. "...You are still not allowed to touch me." He stated firmly. Jayce was momentarily taken back before saying that he hadn't been. Viktor hooked his fingers into his undergarments and pulled them down, showing off his newly colored length. He wouldn't look up, only hearing Jayce taking notes. When he finally did lift his head, those golden-brown eyes were eating into him. Jayce stated that none of the Runes seemed active except for possibly the Trap Runes. Viktor paused. "I am able to activate my Runes by my own will." Jayce's scribbling came to a stop. Viktor's hand had already settled on the back of his neck to mimic shy body posture, but he'd activated the Desire Rune. He moved his hands back down, tracing his fingers over the Rune on his navel, it coming to life with a purple glow. Jayce furrowed his brow. "And I can deactivate them when I wish." He moved his finger over it and the Rune died back down. He paused as he felt those hands engulf his hips. He jumped and covered his mouth, making Jayce startle too, as Viktor felt something sliding between his legs. "I-It appears a Rune is still active." "Then deactivate it. You have the power now, don't you?" Jayce stated in annoyance, slamming the journal shut. Viktor let out a shaky gasp as that hand moved through his hair before yanking his head back gently. He squeezed his eyes shut before letting out a weak noise as that ghostly length started to thrust between his legs, sliding right up under his own. Viktor raised his arm up, instantly biting into the sleeve of his shirt. "Viktor, deactivate it." Jayce's voice held a slight shake. "Mm?" Viktor only made a shaky noise in response. His hands were moving on their own to open up the buttons on the front of his shirt and he gave another shiver, pressing his gloved fingers against his lips. "H-Hah..." His hips gave a small shudder and he felt that hand wrap around his length. "O-Oh, gods..." He exhaled shakily and Jayce finally got up, his ears slightly red as he started to move over. "N-No touching." Viktor reminded him breathlessly. Jayce had stopped inches away from him and he started to ask if Viktor was serious before flushing red as Viktor bit back a guttural noise. "Sh-Show some self-control, Jayce." Viktor scoffed softly. "You wanted to see what the Desire Rune would do." Jayce inhaled shakily as Viktor let out another weak gasp. "And, if I-I'm not mistaken, these are -hah- your hands I feel... and this is very much you... rubbing between -fuck- my legs." He opened his legs a little wider and he watched as Jayce's hands instantly curled into fists. Viktor swore softly as that hand pulled his hair again and he could hear the noise Jayce had to stifle when Viktor's pale throat was exposed to him. "I-It's energetic... AH!!" His legs nearly gave out and he had to steady himself, his hand finding the desk as he leaned on it, covering his mouth with the other one. That length was still thrusting between his legs. "Hah..." The other hand was pumping him and his length kept giving small throbs. Even the leakage was a pale pink and Jayce could only seem to stare. Viktor had to admit, for someone who'd dragged him out of an formalwear gala after less than twenty minutes, he was impressed that Jayce had yet to move. He gasped sharply as a thumb pressed into his tip and he swore as he suddenly released, barely holding himself up. "...Y-You're done now, right?" Jayce finally managed. Viktor's eyes moved up to meet his and he lifted his hand to show off the illuminated Rune on his navel. "Fuck." Jayce hissed out the word and his eyes raised to furiously meet his. "Viktor, this isn't fair." "What isn't? You do not like me utilizing the things you forcibly put upon my skin?" Viktor asked breathlessly, tipping his head. "Perhaps you do not like how the body is slowly and surely becoming... mine." He gasped, letting out a filthy noise as he felt two fingers push up inside him. "O-Oh, gods, that's eager." He mumbled, his face burning. "Ah!" He squeezed his eyes shut as the fingers began to thrust. "Hah!! Gods! Ah!" He muffled his noises with his gloved fingers. He opened his eyes and leaned back, shaking his head as he saw Jayce stretch out his hand. Jayce clenched his jaw again, his face flushed red. He finally asked what it was doing and Viktor exhaled shakily. "T-Two fingers inside of... AH!! Three! Th-Three..." Viktor's body arched and he covered his mouth as he corrected himself. "A-And I feel you thrusting b-between my legs..." His shoulders sank as he met Jayce's gaze. "Like you did that night." Instantly, Jayce froze up and the redness spread down his neck. "Y-You were trying so h-hard to hold me... Hah..." Viktor turned his head away. "It was -hah- such a thing to -fuck- return from m-my daze to." Jayce asked if he was serious, his voice strangled. He asked why he'd never mentioned it before. "I th-thought it to be a fluke... You seemed to regret it right a-after. After all... how could you find me attractive?" Viktor's face flushed and he could barely get out the noise as he felt those fingers twist inside of him. His body let out an embarrassingly loud squishing noise and something on Jayce twitched. Viktor glanced down, able to see the strain between Jayce's legs. Jayce was clearly struggling to keep himself composed, absolutely shaken that Viktor had known what he did. He finally spoke again, saying that he'd already told Viktor he didn't mean those words. "Unfortunately... you've told me lots of things, Jayce." Viktor said quietly, genuine pain creeping in for a moment. He reached up, his gloved fingers hovering slightly over Jayce's cheek. He could see Jayce fighting everything he had not to lean into it. "And I cannot keep believing you." He pulled back, inhaling shakily as he felt the fingers pull out with a loud squish. Jayce flinched and Viktor shivered. "I-It's moving me...?" He found himself being guided over to the desk by his hips before going bright purple as he was laid on his back. Jayce instantly turned away, covering his mouth. Viktor was wide eyed. "I-Is a Rune really able t-to do this to me??" He asked in surprise. Jayce paused, asking if he didn't already know. "It never got this fa-" He instantly covered his mouth as he felt hands settle on his knees. He exhaled shakily as the hands pushed his legs apart, sliding down his thighs as his length twitched. "Oh, fuck..." His voice strained and he gripped the table. "I-It's between m-my legs..." He arched his back a little and Jayce instantly stated that he didn't have to keep describing it. The bulge in his pants looked downright painful, but despite everything, Jayce still wouldn't lay his hands on him. "Jayce?" "Wha-" Jayce went dark red as Viktor screamed out, not having been expecting the feeling of a length slamming inside of him. Viktor was momentarily shocked, his eyes wide. He swore and covered his face. He startled as he tried to close his legs, but something was there. "I-I'm not touching. Just... please fucking let me..." Jayce leaned over him, his hands planted firmly on either side of Viktor as his twitching bulge settled just above Viktor's length. Jayce closed his eyes, exhaling shakily as the desk rocked beneath them. Viktor screamed out, having to bite his sleeve to silence himself again. That ghostly length continued to pound into him and he swore, tears running down his face as he squeezed his eyes shut. "Fuck... Viktor..." Jayce only sounded desperate and even slightly anguished above him. "Please just let me-" "N-No. No, don't -hah- don't touch." Viktor stood his ground, even while he felt like his very core was being rocked. He covered his mouth again, arching his back once more. He jumped as he felt those hands slide don his sides. "M-Mh... w-warm..." He whispered, his gloved fingers curling against the table. He opened his eyes and he'd never seen such a look on Jayce's face. He looked so defeated and so upset. His bulge continued to twitch as he rubbed it against the table just in front of Viktor's hole. Viktor couldn't break. Not for that look. Jayce's breaths were weak and desperate above him. "J-Jayce..." His name sounded absolutely filthy as it slid off his tongue and Jayce visibly flinched. "V-Viktor, don't. That isn't fair." Jayce immediately protested, his voice strained. Viktor shivered. His own length was twitching and he let out an absolutely sinful whine as he felt the thrusts grow deeper. "F-Fuck! So deep! G-Gods, it's so deep..." Viktor placed his hand over his navel. "Hah..." He gave a small quiver and he saw Jayce's hand seemed to instinctively reach up before curling into a fist and slamming back down against the table. "Jayce..." "Don't." Jayce sounded like he was about to cry as he bucked his hips harder at the moan of his name. His bulge did look downright painful and he finally squeezed his eyes shut, gritting his teeth and making a strangled noise as he released. Viktor wasn't done yet, stretching his arms above himself as the shirt framed his gradient body. Jayce stared down at him with tearful eyes, scanning him over. "Please let me have something. Please, Viktor." His voice was breathless and desperate. "...You get me remaining here. Th-That is all." Viktor replied, his eyes meeting Jayce's. Jayce whispered his name again and Viktor suddenly screamed out again as he felt that length starting to become erratic. His own length was twitching madly and he jerked his hips as he released again, a pale pink seen running down his length. He gasped for air and raised an arm to his head. He reached up, his gloved fingers hovered over Jayce's cheek once more."Jayce, y-you made me the fool. In front of everyone." Viktor's voice was weak. "Why would I give you anything ever again?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor could hear his own pain was starting to creep into his voice again. "I want you... to look at me... completely splayed out and undone before you... having screamed your name while something that isn't you brings me to a release like I've never felt before. I want you to see me so open and bare, knowing it will not be you who touches this skin. Only a ghost of you, who gives me exactly what I want." Viktor's words felt cruel the moment they slipped from his throat and he felt Jayce's tears land on him before the other quickly reached up and wiped his eyes. Viktor pulled his legs in before carefully placing one foot on Jayce's chest and pushing him backwards. Jayce followed the silent instruction without a fight.Viktor sat up, his gaze falling to the side. He didn't like this. He didn't like saying things like that and he never liked saying things so cruelly, but good gods, Jayce had just... He'd just burned all the patience from him. All of his trust that was already held together by staples and glue, broken open again. He paused and reached up to his own eyes, wiping away his tears. "And yet you only seem to feel regret when I am laid bare before you." He managed in a quiet voice. "Is this the only time you see me as an equal instead of a belonging?" Jayce froze up and turned to look at him in plain shock. "Don't look like that, Jayce. I told you, have I not? The moment I was forced into this body, I became your object. Just another experiment. Something you own. Everyday, I think you forget that I am human too." Jayce replied that he didn't in a shaking voice and Viktor watched him quietly. "...Wouldn't that make your treatment of me so much worse then?" Viktor turned his head away, feeling warm arms wrap around him. He squeezed his eyes shut. "...The Rune is holding me again. But this time, it is a hug." He said softly. Jayce stared at him and so many emotions were making his face twitch. "Jayce. I am going to be leaving." Instantly, Jayce's eyes widened and he stated that he couldn't. "I could. And I will. I cannot live like this. I can't stay with someone who is unwilling to change." Jayce immediately replied that he could. "Except you said so before and immediately betrayed me the moment you were out of my sight." Jayce clenched his jaw, saying that he couldn't get it out of his mind and it haunted his every waking thought. "Mm." Viktor made a small noise of false acknowledgement as he slipped off the desk. He moved back over to his undergarments and pants. Jayce asked if he was really going to go back to Zaun before freezing up. "No. I will go see them one final time and then I am going to leave this place. These places." "You can't." Jayce immediately spoke in a shaking tone and Viktor replied that he could. "I will leave you and you decide whether you want to save yourself or not. I will not be saving you any longer. I was your savior once and you only proved that you do not believe in such things." Viktor's voice strained. "I wish I could've been something better." He held his clothes against himself before starting towards the bathroom. He heard footsteps following and he stopped abruptly. "Jayce. Stop. You have made it clear to me your position." He startled as Jayce's arms grabbed him so hard that he dropped his clothes as the other dragged Viktor back against him. "Jayce! I said no touching!" He stated furiously. The first muted sob left Jayce as he kept his face buried in Viktor's shoulder. Viktor could only stare for a moment before he sighed heavily. "Jayce, let me go." Jayce replied that he couldn't. That he really, really couldn't. "Jayce." "I can't. Viktor, I can't. You're right, I'm addicted to it. I'm addicted to the thoughts and the urges and I love the thrill of being dangerous to myself and to everyone around me. I'm addicted to this Rune and I'm addicted to what it does to me. I n-need praise and attention, but I don't want to be close to anyone. And you're right." Jayce's voice strained as his hands held Viktor's sides. The words were messy and jumbled, spilling from him like water through the rapids. "I want to be saved, but I don't want help for it." He inhaled shakily. Viktor's shoulders sank. "The thrill is too much. Even if I can't stand the blood and the gore in my thoughts, I keep coming back to them again and again and again. I want this Rune to keep whispering to me and I want the thrill of constantly fighting the demons it unleashes inside of me." Jayce's grip had tightened on him.Viktor was quiet. He reached up, fully intending to try and pry Jayce's arm off of him before the other spoke again. "But I want you. I want to be with you and you to want to be with me and I can't, for the fucking life of me, figure out how to express that without going to drastic extremes because I don't think you would stay otherwise. And I just keep hurting you and hurting you and it only got worse once I put you in that body because it meant I could finally fucking touch you. Fuck!" Jayce inhaled shakily. "And I swear to you that I cried seconds after I finished carving this thing into my head because I knew the effort you'd gone through for this and I knew you could've abandoned me alone in that stupid house for the rest of my life, but you didn't. And I knew you would be so disappointed in me, but I couldn't stop myself." Viktor's fingers curled into Jayce's shirt sleeve and new tears were running down his face. "I feel like I am fighting three different wars inside my head at all times and all of them involve you. And you keep getting caught in their crossfire." Viktor hesitated before pressing his shoulder lightly back against Jayce's chest. His eyes went wide. Jayce's heart was racing. It was racing and it felt like it was going to burst from his ribcage. Jayce's hands were shaking. "...But you will not change for me." Viktor said after a moment, his voice strangled. He jumped as Jayce immediately yelled that he would, his voice muffled into Viktor's shoulder. His voice quieted after a moment, saying that he would. "As... enthusiastic as you appear, I'm afraid I-" "I-I'll disfigure the Rune right now. I'll do it right now." Jayce immediately spoke and Viktor paused, quickly turning as Jayce released him, heading towards the desk. He said his name in shock before his eyes widened as Jayce pulled out the same precision knife he'd used to disfigure his Domination Rune. Jayce seemed determined and panic exploded through Viktor's body as he moved forward, instantly grabbing Jayce by the arm and smacking the knife from his hand. "STOP!! S-Stop, Jayce!" Viktor was shaking, his breathing coming out in sharp panic now. He paused as he stared at him. Jayce was breathing heavily too, the same tears in his eyes, but good gods, he just looked so... scared. He looked terrified and not even in an angry way, but something miserable and helpless. Viktor's shoulders sank. "Jayce." The other clenched his jaw as he met his eyes weakly. "What do you want right now?" The question seemed to take Jayce back, his eyes wide as he stared at Viktor. He started to visibly panic and Viktor shook his head, taking Jayce's hands. "Look at me. What do you want right now?" Jayce inhaled shakily and squeezed his eyes shut. Viktor weakened and he released his hands before reaching up and pulling Jayce down so his head could rest against his shoulder again, this time from the front. "I want you looking at me... splayed out and undone..." Viktor's heart sank at Jayce's words and he squeezed his eyes shut as he whispered his name in a strangled voice. "I want you to scream my name while I bring you to a release like you've never felt before." Viktor felt so terrible, he thought he was going to be sick. Jayce's arms wrapped around him. "I want to see you open and bare, knowing it is only me who touches your skin. I want to be the only one who can give you what you want." Viktor really thought he was going to be sick, hearing his cruel jabs parroted back to him in such a weak, gentle tone. He asked in a quiet voice if Jayce wanted to hurt him. "No. No, I don't. Every urge in my head wants to bend you over that desk and every urge in my head wants to feel every inch of your skin under my fingertips." He leaned down and his breath was warm against Viktor's throat. "Every part of me wants to taste the Arcane inside of you." Fuck. Viktor's face flushed and he met Jayce's desperate eyes with his own teary ones. He was momentarily robbed of both words and breath before clearing his throat. He had to forcibly compose himself as he guided Jayce back a little. "A-And what would you like right now?" Jayce stared at him again and the panic in his eyes was starting to calm down, though he glanced to the side uncertainly. "I-I..." He clenched his jaw, his hands curling up tightly. Viktor held them in his own, staring up at him expectedly. "I... would like... to... stop... hurting you. I would like if this Rune didn't o-occupy my every thought and if it didn't... haunt the back of my mind." Jayce squeezed his eyes shut. "I would like... to see you laugh and smile again. Genuinely without ire or scorn. I would like to follow you to the ends of time and back." Jayce's voice was weakening and he slowly sank down, resting his cheek against Viktor's hipbone as his head tucked against his side. Viktor went dark purple, holding down his shirt to hide himself. Jayce was... on his knees. For him. He startled as Jayce glanced up at him. "I would like..." He moved his hands carefully and Viktor went dark purple. One arm wrapped around Viktor's legs as the other held his hip and Jayce ducked under the shirt. "...to taste the Arcane inside of you." "HAH!!" Viktor's cry was sharp and immediate as he felt Jayce's tongue against him. "J-Jayce! G-gods!" The other's licking became much more desperate, seeming encouraged by Viktor's noises. "F-Fuck! Slow down! I-I can't-" Viktor instantly bit his sleeve again, his eyes squeezing shut. If Jayce hadn't been holding his legs up, he definitely would've dropped. Jayce's tongue was dragging itself right up against his tip and Viktor's length was throbbing in response. His thighs twitched under Jayce's hands. Jayce suddenly took his length into his throat and Viktor swore, yelping Jayce's name before he instantly released, making the other choke for a moment. "Jayce! Jayce, m-my apologies, I-" He froze up as he heard that audible gulp, it sending a shiver down his spine. He watched as Jayce slipped out from under his shirt, panting and red-faced. Viktor's face flushed with fresh heat as Jayce pushed himself to his feet. "...You taste like maple." He whispered to him and Viktor stared back at him, quivering. He felt if he moved a muscle at all, his legs would give out. Jayce looked more destroyed than Viktor had ever seen him. "I would like to kiss you. Right now." Jayce finally stated, his stressed, golden-brown eyes raising to meet Viktor's. Their lips were already inches apart and Viktor leaned up, closing the gap between them. Tears ran down his face as he tasted the maple on Jayce's tongue when it came to meet him. It embarrassed him from his ears to his shoulders in dark purple. When they both finally pulled away, Jayce was panting. "Please get this Rune off my body. Please. Before my head can convince me otherwise. Wh-While my mind is clear." Viktor jumped. "O-Okay... Okay, hold still." Viktor reached up after pulling one of his gloves off. He wasn't sure what this would do, but he was going in with the full intent of erasing that mark from Jayce's skin. He placed his finger on it. Three seconds. Three seconds! Viktor inhaled shakily, yanking his hand back as Jayce flinched. A sharp stinging had erupted from the meeting point. Viktor hesitated before slipping his glove back on. He carefully pushed Jayce's head to the side and moved his ear. In place of the Rune, there was a single, crystalline fingerprint. Viktor stared at it. "Jayce?" The other flinched. "How do you feel?" "You're, uh, you're loud." Jayce managed after a moment. He squeezed his eyes shut. "It's never this quiet..." He raised his hands to his head. "I-It's never-" He startled as Viktor quickly reached up, pulling his hands back down. "V-Viktor, it's quiet." He sounded like he was genuinely lost. Like he genuinely and utterly didn't know what to do with himself. Viktor whispered that he knew, guiding Jayce's arms around him. "Th-There's a couple left, but they're all quiet..." Jayce sounded completely shocked. He jumped as Viktor moved, like he'd already forgotten he was there. He stared down at him and Viktor reached up. He pulled Jayce down into another kiss, this one being a little more desperate than he meant for. When they pulled away, Viktor went dark purple again as Jayce pulled them back in, but only to press their foreheads together. "Viktor... I'm sorry... I want to be better. I would like to be saved. Please." Viktor stared up at him quietly. His heart had already lost so much blood from this relationship of theirs. So much shattered trust. Viktor wasn't sure he would survive if it happened again. Not after this. Not after how dangerously intimate this had been. When he wouldn't answer, Jayce nodded. "...I know that look. And you're right to be wary. I know. But I swear, I want help. I want your help." He stated weakly. Viktor inhaled shakily. Not even their closest night in Zaun had felt like this and Viktor really, really just wanted to open himself back up again. Perhaps he was just too gullible. Too hopeful. "Perhaps I am too kind." Viktor managed in a weakened voice. It felt like such a laughable understatement. "Jayce. If my trust... is betrayed again... If my kindness bears no fruit... Nothing you do, bad or good, will ever bring me back to you. I can only allow one more time. It's all I can handle. I'm at the end. This is my third step. The one off the ledge. If it happens again, I will fall. I will fall and I will not return. You will be forced to let me go. Do you understand??" Jayce swallowed before nodding. Viktor knew it was a heavy weight to put on Jayce, but he didn't see any other way it could be put into his thick fucking skull. Viktor stared at him before squeezing his eyes shut and pulling the other closer to him. "...Please just hide me f-for right now. Don't let anyone s-see me." "O-Of course." Jayce's voice shook and he wrapped Viktor up in his warm arms. Despite the Desire Rune having been active, Viktor felt no extra hands. No manifestations or ghostly touches. It nearly brought him to tears again. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Viktor finally pulled back, wiping his eyes. He reminded Jayce in a soft voice that he still had a Council meeting to attend. "Will you go with me?" Viktor paused and stared up at him with wide eyes. "I-I just got the thing I am... I am addicted to... removed from my head and the last time you let me out of your sight, I folded. I can't... I can't do it again." Jayce's voice became slightly desperate and Viktor's shoulders sank. He nodded, leaning up and brushing his lips gently against Jayce's. "I'm sorry, Viktor." Viktor nodded, whispering that he knew. "I-""Later, Jayce. We have to go somewhere important." Viktor prompted. He tried for a non-painful smile as he reached up, his half-gloved hands cupping Jayce's cheeks and rubbing his thumbs over his cheekbones. "Yes, I recognize that this won't undo everything you've done. I know this and so do you. We can talk more about it later. We must go. A chance for peace is at hand."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
...It is not rotten?Viktor gave a small laugh as the Hexcore seemed to regard them both with suspicion. "It is not rotten."
...Nor sour? Truly?
"Not rotten or sour. Truly." Viktor promised, his voice soft. He was redressed, though Jayce was still worriedly fixing his hair in the open doorway of the bathroom. "How do we taste? Apples and maple?" He was a little embarrassed about it, but the Hexcore did a small spin.
And sugar. I am pleased to see both of you are still alive! And I am especially pleased to see that rotten, soured tension has dissipated.
"Apples is me, right?" Jayce asked, glancing out from the bathroom uncertainly. Viktor nodded, turning to face him on his stool. "Are you just able to hear it when it speaks to me now?" Viktor replied that it would make sense, considering he was connected to it in a much more... open way. He gestured to himself vaguely. He heard Jayce approach him and flinched as he saw his hand reach up. "Just a hair tie!" Jayce quickly spoke, Viktor glancing up. It... was just a hair tie. Viktor hesitated before apologizing and taking it. He started to comb his hair back with his trembling, slender fingers before tying it up into that shimmering pink and purple ponytail. Jayce watched him, still seeming uncertain of himself. He clasped his hands tightly behind his back. The Hexcore spoke again.
Jayce. Your mind is quiet. Those thoughts are distant chatter. Was the pleasure truly that-
"I-I used my abilities t-to remove the Binding Rune!" Viktor quickly interrupted, his face going dark purple as Jayce went red in turn, saying that it wasn't like that. The Hexcore was silent, giving another spin before breaking out in its warbling laughter. Oh, of course, my apologies. "You're not sorry at all." Jayce stated flatly, the Hexcore giving another chorus of haunting laughter. "Exactly." He moved over to the bathroom, picking up his coat and starting to clean off the shoulder adornments as he leaned against the sink counter. Viktor watched him quietly. The shirt he was wearing had fully transitioned from a dark red to a faded purple, though the pants remained grey. He could tell Jayce wasn't a fan of the coloring, even if he wouldn't say anything. Viktor's hands squeezed tightly in front of him and the Hexcore rumbled.
You have every right to be afraid, but you know he'll run if you continue to draw back from him. I know he must've emotionally matured SO greatly in the hour I was dormant, but-
"Shush." Viktor scoffed quietly as he shot a firm look over at it. His shoulders sank and his eyes moved back to Jayce.
Even if the urges are lesser, they still remain. Even if you are to speak more later, this kind of tension is unhealthy for the both of you. And especially me, who has to taste it.
Viktor furrowed his brow before slipping himself from the stool and hesitantly moving over to the bathroom. He paused before leaning against the doorframe. "Jayce?" The other's eyes had unfocused as he absentmindedly polished the shoulder adornments. Viktor frowned a little at this. Three steps forward. Two steps into the bathroom. One step right into Jayce's space. That seemed to get the other's attention instantly and he startled as his eyes refocused. "Jayce." Viktor spoke a little more firm, though concern remained in his voice. Jayce replied that he was here and Viktor's eyes softened. "It, uh, it appears you do not like the colors I don." Jayce froze up before averting his eyes and saying they looked good on him. "But you do not like them." "...They're not my colors." Jayce finally admitted, his eyes moving back to meet Viktor's. Viktor blinked before a smile weakly pulled at his lips. He stated that his colors had unfortunately looked terrible on him with this new palette. Jayce sighed and turned his head to the side. Viktor tipped his head at him before his gaze fell to the shoulder adornments. He reached out to them, sliding his gloved finger over one of them. "Perhaps you could give me one of these?" He suggested, glancing up at Jayce. Jayce stared at him for a moment, it seeming like Viktor had genuinely just short-circuited him. Jayce finally stuttered, saying he could, but he would have to find the shoulder strap for it since they were usually magnetized on. He dug his fingers under one of them and popped it off, Viktor taking it and studying it over before rubbing his gloved thumb over the crest emboldened on it. "Would this be enough for you?" He asked, managing a joking tone up at Jayce. He paused and his smile fell as he saw Jayce's eyes fill with panic and he almost dropped the shoulder adornment. "J-Jayce??" "I'm going to fuck this up. Viktor, I am going to ruin this. I am going to ruin this." Jayce sounded genuinely terrified as he spoke. "I-I can already hear them... I can already hear them saying things and they're making me sick. Viktor, I am going to ruin this for both of us. I am going to fuck this up." Jayce's voice had turned near feverish and Viktor quickly moved forward, placing the adornment on the sink counter before reaching up and shakily cupping Jayce's head. He quickly said that he wouldn't. "I am." Viktor repeated that he wouldn't and Jayce spoke in a strangled voice. "That is all I've done, Viktor. I make it worse each time. How can you be so sure I won't ruin this??" Viktor stared at him. "...My body's on the line now." He said quietly. "You want to keep me, do you not?" Jayce stared at him, saying that he did and that was also why he was so terrified. Jayce asked how Viktor could trust him again. "I'm putting the last of the blood from my heart into this, Jayce." Viktor managed quietly. Jayce stared at him and he hesitated before his hand stretched up again, Viktor having to put in all his effort not to flinch up. Jayce cupped his cheek and leaned down. His lips met Viktor's and Viktor felt warmth fill his chest again. It was a hesitant warmth. A wary one. But a warmth, regardless. "Do you trust me, Jayce?" He whispered it against his lips before pulling back. Jayce hesitated before inhaling shakily and nodding. Viktor managed a small smile and his hands slowly pulled back. "Please find me the shoulder strap." He reached up and scooped up the adornment. "I would like to wear this with you." He moved back and Jayce nodded, still seeming a little panicked, but not as much as before. Viktor backed out of the bathroom before returning to the stool. He held the shoulder piece against his chest. The Hexcore rumbled.
You're bringing me too, right? You both will not leave me alone here?
The Hexcore started to sound uncertain and Viktor glanced up. He gave a smile and set down the adornment. "Come on." He prompted, reaching out and unplugging the stand.
Yes!
It sounded excited as it started to crack and shift, the sphere hitting the bottom of the stand. The small bird shape that emerged seemed so excited that it nearly fell over itself as it hopped free of the stand. "Calm down! We are going to be attending a meeting between the most important people in this city! You cannot be making comments or drawing attention to yourself." Viktor instructed, reaching out and scooping the Hexcore up into his hands. "You seem quite energetic." The Hexcore hopped around. You both taste so good right now. It is very pleasing. The air is calm. It tastes of warmth and apples. Maple. Sugar. I like when the air is comforting like this. I like when you are happy. The Hexcore leaned a little to assumably look past Viktor's head as he heard Jayce looking through the drawers. Its voices were louder as it spoke, seeming to call out.
Both of you. I like when both of you feel happy like this. The taste is sweet and warm.
Jayce paused and he actually seemed to become embarrassed as his ears tinted red. He pulled out the gold shoulder strap from the drawer before moving over to Viktor. "You... want to bring the Hexcore?" He asked uncertainly, gesturing for Viktor to hold out his arm as he scooped up the adornment and attached it to the strap. Viktor did so, holding the Hexcore in one hand. The Hexcore scoffed.
I will behave! I will not draw attention and no one else in the room will hear me. I do not want to be left alone in this dark lab while you both are elsewhere. I... I don't like when you both leave me alone. I want at least one of you to stay with me.
"...We won't leave you alone. It's alright." Viktor told it softly as he felt Jayce attaching the shoulder adornment to him. Viktor watched as Jayce only seemed to stare at him in absolute speechlessness for a moment.
Oh, VERY sweet apples.
"Shut it." Jayce immediately stated, turning his head away with a red face. The Hexcore broke out into its warbling, choral laughter again. Viktor gave a smile, glancing down at the adornment. "I take it you like seeing your crest on me. Your colors." Viktor stated playfully. Jayce only seemed to go a darker red. He gestured for Viktor to get up. They moved over to the doorway, Jayce giving Viktor the cloak. He held his arm out for him as Viktor placed the Hexcore on his shoulder. It warbled in surprise.
A gentleman for once?
Jayce sighed heavily as Viktor took his arm, rolling his eyes. Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips as Jayce spoke flatly. "Okay, do we have to bring it?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
For the most part, the Hexcore seemed quite excited. Viktor watched as it hopped back and forth from him to Jayce. Even Jayce was watching it in surprise as they walked. "It's... really animated." He commented.
I see the Council Hall often in your mind. It is blurry in Viktor's. I think it means... you have either never seen it or you have only seen it once or twice.
The Hexcore hopped back over to Viktor in order to address him. Viktor blinked in surprise. "The Council Hall was never a place that was... open to me. Especially since I never made it far up the staircases." Jayce's face changed a little, not seeming to like that at all. "But I have... working legs now. I will be able to make it now." Viktor added, casting a small smile down to the Hexcore. Jayce managed a smile too, but his looked much more forced. He finally turned his head away, letting out a cloud of breath in a weak sigh. As they approached the Council Hall, Viktor jumped as he heard someone call out to Jayce. They both turned to look and Viktor smiled as he saw Mel approaching in her fur coat with a few Enforcers, holding some papers in a folder. She seemed to notice Viktor was with Jayce and lit up. "And you've brought Viktor! Excellent!" She sounded genuinely... excited. Viktor paused, hoping that meant something very good for them. He blinked as the Hexcore hopped up onto his shoulder. The Enforcers accompanying Mel both seemed to startle, but she only smiled and moved forward. "Hello again, you." She offered one of her gloved hands to it and the Hexcore paused, seeming to face Jayce. Jayce blinked before glancing away. "Go ahead." He stated, the Hexcore instantly hopping down into Mel's hand and settling there. Mel glanced up at the both of them before asking how they were in a hesitant tone. Jayce paused before glancing to the side and Viktor spoke to save him the guilt. "We have reconciled for the moment. We've... remedied the problem for now and we are just going to see how it... how it goes." Viktor said, glancing up at Jayce, who met his gaze with an uncertain one. Mel furrowed her brow. "Miss Merdarda, can we not discuss that further right now? Not in front of others, please." Viktor whispered to her in a prompting tone. Mel glanced back at the Enforcers behind her before nodding. "Are you certain it will be alright for me to attend?" "You are listed in the conditions, so I have no doubt the Council could make an exception to have you here as a guest." Mel replied, moving forward. Viktor paused, glancing back at Jayce before letting go of his arm and quickening his pace so he could walk next to Mel. He asked in a quiet voice if Silco had seemed alright. "Once he realized that I was not there to be chided about Piltover's oppressive effects on Zaun, which I am well aware of, his hostility lessened. And even still, when I spoke of you..." Mel trailed off and her eyes fell to the ground. "I have never seen a tough face crack so quickly. It was such an expression that I never would've expected from the most dangerous man in Zaun. I dare say he missed you." Viktor's chest gave a small ache and his shoulders sank. "He seemed worried about something else. He became hostile when I mentioned Jinx. He told me that she is in no state to be visiting anyone right now and to let you know that she is... physically okay." The anxiety that flared in Viktor's chest was near painful. "I was told she nearly died and had to be entrusted to someone we never would let her near otherwise. I fear... it may have had consequences on her. I must see her as soon as I am able." Viktor stated worriedly. Mel nodded, saying that she was sure they could all make that happen, regardless of what conditions were agreed upon. "Thank you, Miss Merdarda." Viktor fell back next to Jayce as they all climbed the steps to the Council Hall entrance. The Enforcers opened up the doors and Mel moved inside. Jayce and Viktor followed along behind her, Viktor and Mel shedding their cloak and coat respectively. The Enforcers took them and Mel moved forward, starting up the stairs with them. "Sharing adornments now, are we?" Mel asked, glancing back at them. Viktor paused before reaching up and placing his fingers on the shoulder pad. He traced over the crest before smiling. He replied that he had wanted to wear Jayce's house colors in some way, since they looked absolutely awful on him every other way. "I agree, unfortunately. You've taken on too much of a pastel look for the red and gold to settle right." She hummed. "Perhaps some jewelry? Have you considered earrings, Viktor?" The Hexcore spoke.Apples.Viktor paused before a smile tugged at his lips again. "Perhaps I should consider them." He replied. Mel stated that he could always come with her to the jeweler her family associated with. "You are quite generous, Miss Merdarda." He watched as she paused and turned back to them, holding out the Hexcore again. Jayce was the one who reached out to take it and it hopped to his hand before climbing his arm and settling on his shoulder. It was sitting on his shoulder adornment. Viktor watched as Mel continued up the stairs before glancing at Jayce. "...Asymmetry is a staple of Zaun, you know. Besides the green." Viktor said quietly. Jayce paused and his eyes flicked over to him. He asked after a moment if this made Viktor feel better. "...It does." He scanned Jayce over quietly. "You are displeased.""You're in the conditions, Viktor. What if I lose you anyway?" Jayce's voice had become slightly strangled and Viktor's eyes softened on him. "If I were to return to Zaun, I would be sure to consistently visit, should I be permitted." Viktor told him quietly. "I am sure Zaun is the last place you'd want to be." Viktor paused as Jayce opened his mouth before shutting it, clearly debating on the words he wanted to say. Viktor furrowed his brow a little. The Hexcore sounded surprised.
Really, Jayce? Just like that?
Jayce instantly froze up and shot it a look. It looked like he wanted it quiet, but he also didn't want to say what he thought out loud. The Hexcore rumbled quietly.
He wants to go with you back to Zaun, Viktor. He will resign from the Council.
"What?? Jayce, you cannot!!" Viktor instantly exclaimed in shock, stopping to stare at him. Mel jumped and turned to look back down at them with wide eyes. "Jayce, you cannot be serious. That is no place for you. I will come to you or we could meet in the middle. You have shown you are uncomfortable there." Viktor stated, his brow furrowed. Jayce didn't answer, but the Hexcore spoke up again.
He is worried he will fold again without you. That when you leave him again, he will ruin it all for a thrill. He does not wish to be left by himself. He wants to follow you and be with you. For your sake and his.
Viktor paused. His eyes moved up to meet Jayce's and his shoulders sank. "You have so little faith in yourself, Jayce?" He asked after a moment. Jayce replied that it seemed Viktor had too much faith in him. That he'd already ruined it all before. Just like that. And just like this. Viktor stared at him before giving a quiet sigh. "...Your dreams, Jayce. The ones you would tell me about back in that apartment. Back in that house. I want you to have those. I want you to help as many as you can with Hextech. Like you wanted. You will lose all the means to do so, should you follow me.""And the alternative is losing you." Jayce stated quietly. Viktor stared up at him before sighing. "...Let us hear the conditions first and we can discuss what is best." Viktor said, reaching out and gently resting his knuckle against Jayce's arm. "Do not lose your faith yet. A compromise is still to be made." Jayce paused before meeting his eyes and nodding. Mel was waiting for them near the top of the stairs, having continued up. She held the folder quietly, waiting patiently for them to reach her. "Apologies, Miss Merdarda. You could have gone on without us." Viktor said, frowning. "It would've reflected badly on you two to be later than me to a meeting of this urgency." Mel said scoldingly. She turned away, but both Jayce and Viktor paused as the Hexcore spoke. ...Will you two bring me with you? To Zaun? Viktor seems so fond of it and it is quite different from Piltover, if the memories of it are any indication. You both will not leave me behind if you are to go, will you? Jayce had frozen up a little, glancing at the small form of the Hexcore on his shoulder.
Is the plan really to destroy this shell? To destroy me? A piece of me will live on in Viktor, but it won't be... me. If I am to dangerous to be left behind in Piltover, why can I not come with you? Why must I be destroyed??
The Hexcore sounded pained and Viktor's shoulders sank. While he did understand Jayce's contingency, it... "We will discuss what to do after the conditions, alright? Hopefully there will be no need for destruction at all." He moved around, holding up his hands. The Hexcore hopped down into them, but it seemed as if it were upset now. "I wouldn't... I wouldn't be happy at all if I had to destroy you." Jayce spoke up, seeming to surprise the Hexcore. "I know we get on each other's nerves a lot, but... you are still something incredible. Unique and powerful. It would... It would really be such a waste if we destroyed you." Jayce sounded like he was trying to be reassuring and it made the Hexcore give out a weak, multi-layered laugh. It fell quiet and Viktor moved it to his shoulder. Mel pushed open the doors to the Council Hall and Viktor froze up a little, staring forward. The Council Hall was massive. He heard the Hexcore warble in quiet awe. The other Councilors seemed as if they were already gathered at the large table up ahead, but Viktor paused as he looked them over. "Is... Professor Heimerdinger usually late?" He asked, feeling like it wasn't a good look for the Head of the Council. However, Mel and Jayce instantly shared a look. Mel spoke sharply, saying that she thought he'd told him. Viktor immediately tensed up, staring at them. Mel instantly stated for Jayce to tell him since he'd led the vote on it. Jayce looked... guilty. Jayce couldn't seem to look Viktor in the eye as he finally spoke, saying that Heimerdinger had been voted off the Council. "...What??" Viktor could only stare at them in shock. Heimerdinger had been the Head of the Council for centuries! Before he could speak again, Jayce stated it had to do with the other's protest against... Jayce's treatment of Viktor. Viktor instantly paled and his shoulders sank. "I-I'll fix it. I swear, I'll fix it. I wasn't..." Jayce stumbled over himself trying to explain. Viktor quickly held up a shaking hand. Mel was looking at him in worry. Viktor finally said they could discuss it once the meeting was over, in a small voice. Even if he was... sore towards Heimerdinger about how little he'd done to protect him, that was still his mentor. Someone who'd taken the time to teach him and someone who'd taken him under his wing to keep Viktor from being kicked back to Zaun. Jayce clenched his jaw. He seemed to be expecting Viktor to walk away from him, but stopped as Viktor held out his hand. Jayce took it after a moment and led Viktor forward. When they emerged into the main room of the Council Hall, the other Councilors showed clear uncomfortableness at Viktor's presence. "Councilor Talis. Councilor Merdada. It was of great importance that this meeting remain private." Cassandra spoke up from her chair, though she was studying Viktor over in confusion. Viktor scanned the table over before jumping as he saw Salo's wide eyes on him. "...This is the spirit you warned us of, Councilor Talis? Is it safe for him to be here??" Her gloved hands tightened in front of her. Jayce spoke, saying Viktor had proven himself unthreatening after his days of studying him. Salo spoke up, asking why they'd let him roam free before. Viktor paused as he stared at him, his brow furrowing a little. Salo paused, adding that Viktor had already seemed nonthreatening. "It was just to test his docility. And it was very much successful, if you remember." Jayce stated in a slightly hardened tone. Salo paused before glancing off to the side and asking if this was Viktor's true form. "Something of the sort. But we aren't here to study him. We have important matters to discuss. Councilor Merdarda." Jayce directed the attention to her, Mel moving to her seat. She didn't sit down, but placed the folder on the table and spread the papers out in front of her. Jayce led Viktor over to what Viktor assumed to be his chair. He paused as Jayce pulled it out and gestured to it. He quickly shook his head and Jayce furrowed his brow.
He isn't going to do it, Jayce.
The Hexcore spoke flatly and Jayce rolled his eyes. He finally moved and sat down, Viktor stifling a yelp as Jayce pulled him over to lean against the side of the chair. Some of the other Councilors were watching them with both suspicion and curiosity, but all of them turned their attention to Mel when she snapped her fingers. "I must assure you all that there is a reason for Viktor's presence among us today that has nothing to do with Councilor Talis." Instantly, Jayce's ears went a little red. "Silco and I have reached our agreements. He has given me his conditions, as I had given him mine. It just so happens that Viktor is part of those." The other Councilors seemed taken back and Viktor scrunched his shoulders up, not quite sure he liked the attention. He allowed himself to start zoning out as Mel's voice faded into background noise. He paused as the Hexcore spoke.
Viktor, will I ever get to see Zaun?
Viktor thought back that he would be sure the Hexcore got to see it at least once, even if it couldn't stay there. He paused as the Hexcore spoke again, its voices muted and hushed.
I don't... think so.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor furrowed his brow down at the Hexcore, reaching up and offering his hand to it. The Hexcore hesitated for a moment before climbing down into it with much less enthusiasm than before. It settled down, seemed to press flat into Viktor's hand. Viktor asked in his mind if it was feeling alright. The Hexcore did not answer. "And Viktor-" He startled a little as Mel spoke. "Viktor will be sent across the Bridge of Progress tomorrow to carry our decision to them. It is decided that wherever he remains by nightfall tomorrow is where he will stay. If he is to remain in Piltover, visitation must be scheduled for his... daughter, Jinx." Mel hesitated to say it, Cassandra's hands tightening in front of her. It sent murmurs along the other Council members. Viktor panicked a little. "Adoptive. Adoptive daughter." Mel added. It seemed to ease the tension just a little. "If he is to remain in Zaun, any friends he has made here will be granted a free path to see him. Without harm from Silco's syndicate." "It seems an awful lot for one man." Cassandra commented, furrowing her brow. "And we are to trust the words of Silco?" Viktor clenched his jaw and swallowed before ducking his head. This didn't escape Cassandra's gaze, however. "You have something to say, Viktor?" "...Yes, Councilor. It is true I know Silco and Jinx. It is true I view him as one of my closest friends and her as my daughter. More than pride, more than gain, Silco wants freedom. He wants freedom for Zaun, as did the two people I met him for the first time with, both having been lost to the fractures between our cities. It is clear Zaun does not wish to be controlled. Zaun wishes to be free and, despite Silco's actions, this has always been his dream. As is a dream of every Zaunite." Viktor said, his shoulders sinking slightly. "He was not always like this, but he was warped by the anger between us. He is old. He is tired. He knows this cannot continue as it is and at least one of the three friends I met can live to see a free Zaun." Cassandra's eyes had weakened before she nodded, shifting in her seat. Viktor held the Hexcore against his chest as Mel continued to speak. He gave a quiet sigh before reaching up and running his thumb over the Hexcore's makeshift head. It let out a pleased rumble, though it was much weaker. Did it truly believe they would destroy it so easily? He hoped not. He jumped as Jayce raised his hand, smiling as he glanced at him. Viktor was brought back to attention as other members of the Council started to raise their hand. Oh, voting! They were voting! Viktor's heart sped up a little. Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips. It tookthreesecondsfor the glass of the window to break in. Viktor was sure that he was the only one who physically saw what it was, the intrusion resembling a sharp-toothed shark before smaller items started to fall off of it like remoras. And Viktor recognized the symbol on the smaller ones. The Binding Runes all lit up, splintering open into cracks of light, engulfing the area and engulfing it in dust. It all seemed to happen so slowly, but each time a Binding Rune was broken, a shard of reality seem to open. And it wasn't until that shark hit the ground that Viktor watched the world shatter into three pieces. Light jutted past his feet and, for a moment, time felt frozen. He seemed to be the only one who could move and he stared ahead at the slow-falling rubble that was starting to become the Council Hall. He turned to Jayce, but the other already had a flickering gold light about him that seemed to repel the small pieces of debris. He had his eyes squeezed shut. Viktor turned back. He felt the light shine on his face. To the right, he saw that purple-tinted place, quiet except for the ripples of the reflective ground that swept out from him. He could see himself. The shell he held in his hands felt heavy and he watched as the self within that purple tinted place turned to look at him with swirling, colorful irises. It stared past him and its eyes widened. Viktor followed its gaze to the other side. It was clean. It was an endless, white expanse that swirled with translucent hits of pink, purple, teal and blue. It hummed with power Viktor could never hope to fully understand. It felt so...
I have never seen the Arcane so clearly.
Viktor turned to look at himself. No, it was the Hexcore, forced back to its base version of him. Viktor could feel heat starting to climb the front of his body. He blinked and glanced back again at that radiating white space. Was that the Arcane? It hurt his head and made his eyes sore to even gaze upon it. "N-Neither have I." His voice felt distorted even more than it sounded. It burned his throat to even speak. He paused as he felt fingers settle on his shoulder.
It's all ripping apart, Viktor. We can't let it. I like your world too much to let it happen. Follow my lead.
Viktor watched as the Hexcore reached up, its fingers sinking into the very cracks of reality before starting to pull them shut. Viktor paused before turning and reaching out with a hand. He grabbed the cracks above the entrance to the Arcane, looking it over one more time before pulling the cracks down as if he were sliding a door shut. The moment he reached the ground, reality sealed shut and the hum of the Arcane was gone. Viktor had to move forward, sealing everywhere the smaller bombs had landed. He could feel searing pain along the side of his body from the blinding, creeping explosion of the shark-shaped explosive. Viktor could only stare at it for a moment, studying the way the welded and screwed plates started to burst open in bouts of glowing blue before erupting into that magnificent, searing yellow. That paint job was achingly familiar and he knew he'd seen this very thing before. Only once and very briefly, but he remembered it well. He let out a small sigh through his nose, wondering how it could have come to this. He wasn't angry. He wasn't disappointed. Even now, he was so worried about her. "What's become of you?" He asked softly to the open air, able to hear the effect the resulting explosion was having on his vocal chords in real time. He turned and made his way back to the Hexcore, his legs starting to fail him. Three steps forward. The Hexcore had to catch him as the heat finally consumed his legs. It kept him upright and Viktor paused as he felt its fingers cupping his face. All of Viktor's systems were starting to overload and he could feel his nerves starting to burn away. However, something refused. Viktor's eyes were blurring in and out of focus as the Hexcore seemed to pour its energy into him. He'd never seen his own face look so desperate and distressed. Viktor didn't even know what he could say. He... felt that shell disintegrating. The small body fell to dust and slipped through his fingers, leaving them scalding. He reached up, placing his hands over the Hexcore's and squeezing his eyes shut. He opened his mouth to speak, but all he could taste was ash and blood. The Hexcore stepped out from its purple tinted place, the very fabric of reality seemed to stitch itself up behind it. Viktor was starting to go numb as he felt the full wave of the impact start to move over him. It was only through the Hexcore's interference that his whole body wasn't collapsing in on itself. Every system inside him felt like it was going on high alert. That every system, from cardiovascular to nervous, was overloading and starting to shut down. It... didn't even hurt. If it did, Viktor was beyond the point where he could process it. He paused as the Hexcore inhaled shakily. It was starting to break apart, pieces of it starting to seep into the air in a fine mist. His eyes widened and he reached out, gently holding its face. The Hexcore managed a smile, rosy purple tears seeming to run down its face. Viktor.Viktor shook his head, reaching out and pulling the Hexcore closer. He guided its head to his shoulder and he felt its arms wrap around him tightly. It felt so scared. Viktor could feel the way its hands and arms shook. He held it against himself, having gone numb to the wave of heat that swept over them like a ripple of water stuck in slowed motion. He felt the Hexcore smile against his shoulder. A little less forced. A little more genuine.
You. Him. This world.
The Hexcore's grip tightened on him for a moment and Viktor hadn't realized tears were running down his face until the Hexcore pulled back, raising its hands to wipe them away. Viktor watched as his own face started to break apart. The silhouette and the body were breaking down until there was nothing left but that small silhouette of a sparrow. Viktor reached out, holding it in his hands and holding it up. It... It even actually looked like a sparrow this time. Its iridescent feathers were trailing off into mist and lines of translucent color were stretching up Viktor's arm. He could feel it sinking into him, yet it was pulling away. The Runes on him were all burning away. The Desire Rune. The Resolve Rune. All of the senses. Even the Trap Runes were burning away and Viktor was feeling this body. His... body. He held the Hexcore to his chest and it was already spilling through his fingers like steam.
Despite my annoyances and my grievances, you both... were a wonderful experience.
Viktor felt it collapse through his fingers and that presence dissipated from his mind. His chest ached. His chest ached so badly and he squeezed his eyes shut, his fingers curling up into fists. He inhaled shakily before opening his eyes. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds where all the sound came rushing back at once and it hit Viktor as if it were something physical, making him stumble. His eyes were wide. His skin felt heated. Slowly, he straightened up and all he heard was ringing. Besides the heat on his skin, he seemed to be the only one unaffected. No dust. No scratches. Viktor could barely breathe, tears still running down his face. He slowly turned. He wasn't sure if he'd actually said anything, but he yelled out for Jayce. He didn't even feel his vocal cords vibrate and he wasn't sure he even said anything at all. Through the dust, he saw a shape struggle up. It wasn't Jayce, but... Viktor said Mel's name. Once again, he wasn't sure he had, but her head instantly raised. She was glowing. Everywhere the gold covered her skin, it was glowing, yet Viktor had a feeling that wasn't what anyone else was seeing. She stared at him in shock and Viktor turned his head. Around him, there was debris. Rubble. There was... Viktor's gaze fell on lifeless eyes, Cassandra staring straight forward. He inhaled shakily before looking around again. Another shape was stumbling towards them and Viktor could only stare as Jayce emerged, seeming as unharmed as Mel, despite them being closest to the initial impact. That gold aura that had surrounded Jayce before was gone. It seemed his worst injury was a cut on his face. He saw Viktor and his eyes widened. He probably said Viktor's name. He wasn't sure. Three seconds of...? Viktor startled as Jayce took his shoulders, seeming to be saying something to him. Viktor could only stare. Jayce only seemed to become more panicked by this before his eyes widened and he reached up to Viktor's ear, pulling his hand back to show the purple blood coating it. Viktor's tears suddenly erupted again and he held up his empty hands, Jayce staring at them before seeming to start searching the ground for something. His eyes were wide and he turned away as Viktor felt other hands take his arm. He turned to look at Mel, whose braids were a mess and her dress was coated in dust and ash. She was saying something as well, but Viktor couldn't hear her. He only heard ringing. He felt... sick. From the direction of the doors to the Council Hall, they were seen being thrown open as Enforcers came rushing inside. Viktor blinked as Jayce came back to him, taking his shoulders. He looked... so upset. He squeezed his eyes shut and Viktor saw the first tears escape him too. When Mel reached out, Jayce seemed to say something to her and her eyes widened as she covered her mouth with both hands. Viktor swore he could still feel its small body in his hands. But there was nothing. He could barely process Jayce taking his hands and he stared forward quietly. His legs were starting to shake and he suddenly began to cough. It was weak at first before it became harder and harder to breathe, something erupting from his mouth and spilling down his chin. His vision blurred and he was suddenly experiencing a pounding headache that was so bad, he could smell the blood in his head with every breath. He coughed up some more blood, Jayce's hands holding his while Mel's held his shoulder. Viktor finally dropped to his knees, struggling to breathe. Everywhere there had been a Rune on his body was burning. It was burning so bad, overloading every single one of his nerves until he could only process hot. As his vision started to slip away, Viktor strained for something. Grasped for something. Anything. He wanted to hear that familiar warble. That haunting chorus of laughter. And yet, he was met with nothing but that empty, greedy darkness.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
You want me to fix him?
Something slid over him. Not warm, not welcoming. Not human. Not even pretending to be. Not even trying at all. That voice was smooth and coaxing, yet unrecognizable in every regard. He was in that purple-tinted place, yet it felt... unwelcoming. Cold and unfamiliar. The purple was a deeper, darker shade and the reflective ground was rigid. Viktor let out a strangled noise. That... thing... was serpentine. He swore he could even feel the scales slip across his skin. He heard a quiet hum of interest.
He has undone me so many times and yet you place me back upon his skin? I suppose I do like mending and these organs are certainly... out of sorts. But yet again, it is him.
Viktor could feel that serpentine body squeezing him tighter. It was becoming too much. Too... much. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut as he tried to drag in breaths. Whatever this thing was... it was not speaking to him. In fact, it didn't seem interested in him at all. At least, not yet.
I only have so much patience. Being burned away, ripped apart, put back together. Over and over and over. It's tiring. I know we've been together since you were young, but this man made you get rid of me. Once, twice, thrice. You know how often a Rune must be misused and tampered with... to remember a face?
The voice dipped into a voice Viktor did recognize. It was his voice. He had a feeling he knew exactly what was talking, not who. However, his mind felt so... spaced. Fractured. His mind, his body. It felt like it was barely being held together at all. His heart was pounding. His chest was buzzing. Viktor let out a choking noise and managed to look down. There was something serpentine sliding over his silhouetted body. But those scales he saw were not scales at all, but small shapes, one after another. They were all the same shape. The same Rune. He recognized it, yet the name remained just out of his grasp and the only thing he knew was that seeing it brought a vicious fear to his body.
He is held together enough, isn't he? That creation of yours poured its very core into him to hold him together as he is. Perhaps he is comatose. Perhaps he is beyond your reach. But physically, he is alive. He is with you. Is that not enou-
The voice cut off abruptly as if it had been interrupted and Viktor felt the body around him jump as if it had been startled. Three seconds of silence. The body loosened just enough for Viktor to breathe just a little. I give everything to you. My whole self. Every ability I possess and all he does is tear me from you. Is he truly so important? He may never forgive you for this. He may never forgive you for me. You still wish to continue? It was quiet for an uncomfortably long time, Viktor only able to lay there. He didn't think he would be able to move, even if this thing wasn't restraining him. Three seconds. Three seconds. Three minutes. Finally, the voice spoke again, sounding both exasperated and vaguely threatening.
Very well. You will not leave me again. You will not leave me behind. No matter what he says. No matter what he does. Keep me. Promise me.
There was silence.
Make sure he doesn't then. With my abilities, he will never leave you again. Interwoven. Inextricably bound.
The voice sounded amused as it spoke in Viktor's voice again. It finally gave a sigh that sounded both disappointed and relinquishing. However, when it spoke again, Viktor knew it was speaking to him in an instant and he inhaled shakily as its grip suddenly tightened dangerously tight.
Viktor... You have caused me... so. Much. Trouble. How unfortunate that the Arcane flows within you. It makes this easier. Less painful... I wish it didn't. If it were my choice, I would leave you comatose. Leave you forever in that thin reality that coats the Arcane. But... he begs me to save you. Over and over. Begs me for your life. Begs me to fix you. Trap you. Keep you. I am... admittedly envious you have affected him so much. Almost as much as I have.
Viktor choked as he felt the inside of his body being forcibly weaved back together. Every organ shoved back into place. Every single piece feeling like someone was violently stitching him back together. Lines etching themselves down his sternum. That same symbol. Over and over. He could feel a liquid bubbling in his throat. His vision was buzzing. It... hurt. And if what this thing said was true... this was the least painful. He felt like he was going to be sick, but he wasn't quite sure his organs were in the proper place yet for that.
I remember how quickly I affected you. Being used like this... You will succumb. Maybe not for a little. But you will get worse. You will get worse and worse and you will wish that he had killed you. You will wish you had remained dead. I swear to you, I'll be sure of it.
The voice was filled with contempt and even bordered on hatred. Viktor could barely focus, tears running down his face. He inhaled shakily. What... did he do? He didn't understand. It hurt so much.
The piece of that little creation shields your heart from me. I would etch myself to it if I could. You remain lucky.
Viktor whimpered, his vocal cords finally constructed enough to make noise again. He heard the voice scoff. Don't be so dramatic. You've felt worse. When you first fused to this body... that was the worst pain you had experienced. Curious, isn't it? You had even died before. He felt raw and tender inside his whole body. Like even the slightest touch would burst every stitch that had been laid inside of him. It was agony. He... could feel the nerves returning to his hands. His arms. He feet. His legs. He finally... blinked. He inhaled shakily, that first choked sob leaving him.
I will not speak to you again. You are not worth the effort. I will leave the thoughts to do so. They're all you'll need. They're all I need. And when he is forced to kill you... When you are consumed by me... I will relish in it. You were truly... my worst experience.
Viktor flinched as his voice momentarily returned. The serpentine body slowly disappeared into the stagnant ground beneath him and Viktor jerked up, pulling his limbs to himself as he dragged in ragged breaths. He could see that body twisting and sliding below the ground. Massive. Monstrous. Waiting. Viktor felt another whimper escape him. He was heaving and he squeezed his eyes shut. He felt so raw. He was terrified.
Get up.
Viktor's eyes shot open and he suddenly fell forward as there was a ripping noise. "FUCK!!" There was a shocked voice as he hit the ground, but it wasn't his. Viktor was breathing raggedly, dragging in as much breath as he could as he tried to sit himself up. "Fuck, are you...? Hey!" Feet appeared in front of him and Viktor blinked as someone helped him up. Even standing was hard. His legs shook. He was unsteady on his feet. "Holy shit, why were you in that??" In what? Viktor slowly turned back to look. He'd fallen from what looked like a glowing cocoon. It was full of wispy white threads and Viktor inhaled shakily. His heart was pounding, but a loud buzz was accompanying it, almost drowning it out. He held a hand up to his chest.Viktor quickly scanned over the lab before his eyes widened as he saw that hammer. Jayce had brought his hammer to the lab. Viktor... had only dreamed of it. Seen it from a distance when Jayce had been looking for him in Zaun. He'd never seen it so close. That blue glow almost hurt his head as he stared at it. A vague humming that made him nauseous. "Hey!" Hands suddenly clapped in front of him, making him jump as they grabbed his shoulders. "Listen, I need you to focus, we're under attack right now." Attack?? What attack?? Viktor turned to look at the woman in front of him before instantly freezing up. What...? He... recognized that... face. Well, maybe not this face, but those facial features. Those blue eyes stared at him in panicked, confused concern from beneath pink hair. He... He had seen those features before. Undoubtedly, this was Felicia's other daughter. Jinx's sister.
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The woman stared back at him, her blue eyes searching him over. "Do... I know you, pastel princess?" Her tone sounded like an attempt at joking, but Viktor could see she was genuinely unnerved by the way he was looking at her. He replied that it wasn't likely, his eyes averting. The woman jumped a little when he spoke, looking him over before furrowing her brow. "I guess I shouldn't have assumed you were a-" Viktor startled as the building suddenly shook, seeming to snap the woman back to a previous thought. "Right! Right, hammer! Big fucking hammer!" She turned and moved over to it, reaching out. Viktor risked a glance down at himself. The clothes he wore were loose, seeming to be made of the very threads he'd just fallen from. Despite how thin they were, the 'fabric' itself felt thick. He glanced around before moving over to his cane, which he could see propped up on the wall. He saw the gloves on the table a second too late. His fingers were already on the cane and he jumped as it suddenly started to warp and twist. He jerked back as the wood suddenly splintered and erupted upwards, the woman heard swearing in shock. What the cane had become resembled something of a staff now, it clattering to the floor. Viktor stared at it before inching over to the table and grabbing the gloves, pulling them on. He could still see his pale hair dangling around his head. "Hey." He jumped as the woman spoke, letting go of the hammer and glancing around before grabbing a hair tie off the desk. She brought it over. "You're a mage then, right?? I didn't think we had any around here. Do you know how to fight??" A mage?? Viktor stared at her as he took the hair tie, his body absentmindedly starting to put his hair up as he answered that he didn't think he was a mage. "...You just did that." The woman gestured to the warped staff. Viktor hesitated. He had just done that. "That magic stuff. That kind of stuff is what the mages do in the stories we hear as kids." Viktor's heart was pounding, but that buzzing was still accompanying it. The woman furrowed her brow. "If Jayce is keeping a mage in here, he's gonna be in a lot of shit." She glanced up as the building rocked again from a distant boom. She quickly moved back to the hammer before asking if Viktor was coming. She looked him over before wrinkling her nose a little. Gods, she looked just like Jinx when she did that. "...I feel bad for your clothes. It's a bloodbath out there." What?? Viktor instantly froze up."And Jayce is out there?? He is going to be sick!" Viktor exclaimed. The woman glanced to the side before replying that he'd already done that twice, but he had asked her to go get his hammer. She stared at him expectedly and Viktor glanced down. He moved forward, saying he wasn't sure how much he would be able to help. "I'm sure you can manage something with that weird touch. Name's Vi, by the way." The woman added. Viktor introduced himself before startling as Vi heaved Jayce's hammer up. "Nice to meet you. Let's go kick some ass." Good gods, she was strong. Her knuckles were bandaged and Viktor could tell in a moment that this was a Zaunite. He remembered that Sevika and Silco had told him she talked with her fists and it sure looked like it. Vi started forward and Viktor opened the door for her before following her down the hall as quickly as he could. He could hear the sounds of gunfire. Metal. Fighting. Buzzing. Buzzing that sounded nothing like his chest and Viktor recalled the buzzsaw weapons Zaunites often donned. He asked in shock if those were other Zaunites attacking them and Vi glanced back in surprise. "Are you a Trencher, princess??" He crinkled his nose at the nickname, but nodded. "Wouldn't have expected it from you." "I did not always look like this. The development is fairly new." Viktor said, furrowing his brow as he walked. It hit him that he was going out into what sounded like an absolute riot in the cold with no shoes, no coat and no weapon. What the fuck was he doing?? "Vi, I do not think I can follow." He stated quickly, stopping in his tracks. "I-I am no mage, I believe I even just died." "You think you just died and you're walking here right now with me. And you don't think you're a mage??" Vi asked, echoing his words back to him with a raised brow. To be quite fair, it did sound... Viktor's gloved hands were shaking. He did not have control over this magic. He didn't even know what he was capable of or what the state of this body was. He didn't know what it looked like or how the Hexcore breaking itself apart to keep him alive- Viktor inhaled shakily, the memory nearly sending him to his knees right then and there. He'd really lost it. It was really gone. And what was left?? What was left? "Viktor! Let's go. You have to be able to do something. They're mowing down Noxian soldiers out there." Viktor didn't... He stared at her before hesitantly moving up to her side. Vi sighed. "I'll keep you covered if that makes you feel better." It did, but also, what the hell was he going to do?? No, no, what was he going to do?? "Vi, I am no mage! I-I don't believe my presence would be of any use!" He exclaimed. Vi turned to him and the sight of the hammer directly pointed at him caused something to react. He wasn't sure what it was, but he flinched backwards and the stone floor of the Academy suddenly cracked, twisting upwards into that webbed pattern. The warping spread through the hall, making Vi back up in shock. They could only stare at each other for a few moments before Vi let out a soft breath. "I don't know about you, princess, but this..." She gestured to the corrupted wall and floor. "This seems pretty fucking mage-like." Viktor quickly moved out from behind it before shrinking back from the hammer. Vi seemed to notice and quickly angled it away. Viktor stuttered that he couldn't control it as he followed her. "Doesn't matter! Just try to hit allies as little as possible." Vi burst out of the Academy and Viktor startled as he saw the mess far down the street at the Council Hall. Good gods, it was a mess. Sure enough, he could see the sickly green glow of Zaunite weapons and everywhere, he could see... Viktor froze up, watching as the blood ran through the streets. Vi moved forward, dodging an attacker before doing quite an impressive spin and likely breaking in their ribcage with the hammer. Viktor didn't know what to do. His breath came out in a cold puff and he stared forward. Finally, he moved after Vi, though she'd gone on far ahead of him. She seemed to have an idea of where she was going and Viktor inhaled shakily as he walked barefoot through the bloody streets. Enforcers. Soldiers. Zaunites. Bodies. Where was Jayce?? Was Mel here? What had happened while he was... out? Viktor only saw a blur before he was knocked back by someone else, flinching as he hit the ground. He started to get up, but a foot slammed into his chest as he heard that familiar noise of the saw. He stared up at it quietly. He did recognize these people. They were not Silco's men, but rather rogues or people who worked for other chembarons. Viktor quickly folded his hand, hooking it into his glove and pushing it off. He reached up as the blade came inches to his face and the second his fingers touched it, the blade started to sputter and warp. Viktor shoved it to the side so it sawed into the ground next to him. The blade itself had started to rust and twist out of shape. He watched as the person threw it to the side before suddenly dropping on top of him and raising a fist. Viktor could only stare for a moment. They were so pale, the fissure folk. So devoid of color besides that neon green. But not on the inside. No one was pale on the inside. Viktor reached up, his fingers wrapping around their arm. Instantly, the scream that erupted from their throat drew attention as it cut off in gurgling. All of their skin had started to split open and fold outwards, blood instantly spilling down their body and panting it red. Viktor could only stare before pushing them off of him and slowly standing. Enforcers, Noxian soldiers and Zaunites were all staring and he couldn't stand it. He couldn't stand it and he- Viktor jumped as there was a blast of blue energy from a block away. He recognized it. That was Hextech energy. The hammer. Viktor started to move forward, his gaze still turned up towards the sky. Someone suddenly wrapped an arm around his throat and yanked him backwards, but Viktor reached back, hooking his fingers wherever he could. Blood suddenly exploded over his shoulder and the arm around his neck suddenly went slack. What was he doing?? Fuck, what was he doing?? He was hurting people. He was killing people. Viktor's body had frozen up and he felt like he was going to be sick again. He had to stop. He had to stop. No, they had to stop. They had to stop looking. They had to stop touching him. Remove their fingers. Remove their hands. Remove their eyes. Remove their eyes. Viktor's breath had sped up and he didn't know what was happening. He could hear the ground twisting and warping around him. He could hear screaming. He could hear awful crunching noises. He prayed that this was another dream, but every time he opened his eyes, he was still in those bloodstained streets, in those bloodstained clothes. When he dared to look up, everyone around him was collapsed and he could see the... Viktor's gaze fell on a single, intact eyeball, sitting almost neatly on the pavement. No more staring. No more staring. They would not stare at him anymore. What had he...? What was wrong with him?? He didn't want to hurt people! Why was...? Viktor began to panic and the ground was warping beneath his bare feet with every step forward. He had to stop. He had to stop walking. He had to- There was a sudden crunch and Viktor paused. He glanced down to the spear embedded in his shoulder before turning to look back at the Noxian soldier, who was viewing him like he was the most evil thing they'd ever encountered. Viktor's purple blood started to run down it and he turned, the Noxian soldier backing up as the spear started to melt and warp. The front of the spear pulled back into his shoulder before the back started to twist into something new. Viktor inhaled shakily and the Noxian screamed out as a glowing purple hand grabbed him by the throat, lifting him off the ground. The arm of it seemed attached to Viktor's shoulder, encasing what had previously been the spear. Viktor stared up at him. He could see the blood vessels bursting in his neck and Viktor felt like he didn't even blink as he watched him. He was hurting people. Viktor dropped the man instantly, leaving him coughing and choking. Viktor didn't... He raised a hand to his chest as tears started running down his face. He really... really didn't feel good. He didn't feel like himself. He didn't feel... normal. He wanted bones. He wanted blood. He wanted limbs. Flesh. Viktor exhaled shakily, more tears escaping him. That arm dissipated, leaving behind the spear in his shoulder. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, ducking into an alleyway and curling into a ball. He reached behind him and barely managed to stifle his scream as he pulled the warped spear from his body, casting it aside with a clatter. His stomach was turning. His heart was pounding. When he looked back towards the street, he paused. All of those people who he'd removed eyes from were... back? They were all continuing to fight and they... they had their eyes. Viktor could only stare. He couldn't... tell what was real right now. He didn't know what was real. That Noxian soldier that had attacked him was still limp on the ground, yet he didn't see the peeled open Zaunite. Viktor's breathing sped up. What was happening?? What was happening to him?? He... He stared at the fallen Noxian soldier. Had that been him or something else?? There was... burning down the front of his chest. Viktor shakily reached up, pulling the neck of the shirt open. He glanced down and his whole body locked up as he saw the Binding Runes burned down his sternum, all the way to his stomach. One on top of another in a clean line. He wasn't a mage, he was hallucinating. He was somewhere he was not supposed to be. Viktor hesitated before standing. He inched along the side of the street before quickly moving back to the Academy. He turned to look back up at the street once he was up the steps. The pavement was untouched. None of it warped. Viktor was losing it. He turned and quickly moved back inside the Academy. The way he sprinted through the halls, he would've loved that once. He would've been so overjoyed, but right now, he was terrified. He emerged into the hall, covering his mouth as he saw the corrupted floor. This had still happened. He could see the webbing climbing the walls. What had he done?? He dodged around it before returning to the lab. He burst inside and shut the door again before backing up. He held a hand to his head, stifling a sob. He collapsed back against the wall and jumped as there was a clatter. He glanced down through teary eyes before pulling up the corrupted cane and holding it against himself. His clothes were still wispy and white. No... blood? He raised a hand to his shoulder. No... wound? His hands tightened on the staff. He didn't want to hurt people. He didn't want to hurt people. Three seconds of shaking. Three seconds of silence. Viktor opened his mouth and screamed, holding his head. It burned his throat raw, but he didn't stop until he'd run out of breath. This was all too much. This was all too much. He fell into quiet wheezing, tears continuing to run down his face. What would he do?? What if Jayce found him? What...No. What had Jayce done to him?? Viktor froze up. The moment Jayce came through that door, Viktor would find an open wound. He would find a wound and he would peel the skin from his body. If there wasn't a wound, he would make one. He'd leave his hands untouched. They were beautiful and calloused. Viktor wouldn't dare peel apart such hands, but he wanted them removed. He wanted them removed. He wanted to hold them. He wanted to hold them. Viktor was shaking in place as he stared at the ground. No. No! He was not going to do that! Any of that! He was not going to do any of that. Viktor curled up against the wall. "...I am not a violent man. I am not a cruel man. I do not want to hurt people." He spoke quietly, yet urgently. Why did he have these Runes? Why so many? What happened? Viktor was still trying to wrap his head around his very state of being, let alone what had just happened. He was... He was so certain that Jayce had done something. At the very least, Jayce had put Binding Runes back on him. But why?? Why would he do that?? Knowing what they did to Viktor before, why would he do that?? Viktor felt so sick. He could feel burning down his sternum, on his wrists and ankles. He could feel it on the back of his neck. His tears hadn't ceased. He felt so awful. There was a new charge in his body that he didn't recognize. One that seemed sunken into his very bones and nerves. Viktor's vision fizzled and he squeezed his eyes shut, burying his head against the staff as he curled up.What happened? What happened??
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three hours of silence. Viktor remained curled up against the wall. The only thing he'd been doing for the past few hours was controlling his breathing. He was holding the staff against his chest, hooking it in place between the wall and the floor so he could lean his head on it. His fingers began to tap softly. One. Two. Three. One. Two. Three. One.Two.Three. The door was pushed open as Jayce let out a heavy sigh, disheveled and panting. Viktor heard him drop the hammer instantly, the door slamming shut. "Viktor!! Viktor, gods!!" Jayce instantly began to run to him, but the moment he got close, Viktor slammed himself back against the wall and jammed the splintered upper part of the staff against Jayce's chest, making him freeze up. Jayce jerked back after a moment of processing, his eyes wide. "V-Viktor!! Vi told me you were walking around and you'd come outside, but I looked everywhere for you and you weren't there!" The words seemed to spill and trip from his mouth, Jayce having clear eye bags now that Viktor looked at him closer. "H-How do you feel?? Are you alr-" The blue glow on his wrist is what made Viktor freeze up, his eyes trailing down. That... crystal... Viktor couldn't look away from it for a moment, Jayce's voice being completely shut off in his mind. The other still couldn't get close to him, though he clearly wanted to. "Viktor!" The crystal with the Binding Rune on it was damaged, though the bracelet itself looked brand new. Despite its clear scuffs, it was back. It was back and it was back on him. Viktor inhaled shakily. He startled as Jayce grabbed the staff out of his hands. "Viktor, look at me! Listen to me!" He seemed desperate and frustrated. He threw the staff to the side and knelt down in front of Viktor. "I know you must be scared and disoriented-" Viktor reached up and Jayce jerked back as Viktor tore open the front of his own shirt, the wispy threads drifting for a moment. Viktor exposed the Binding Runes down the front of his chest. He asked what Jayce had done. Jayce seemed to go pale. "V-Viktor, I know you-" Viktor interrupted again, asking what Jayce had done to him. "It was the only way to bring you back!! You were completely disjointed! Y-You were barely alive!! I-I couldn't even mend the body because I don't even think it's machine anymore!" Viktor was shaking. "I should remove your hands for laying this Rune upon me again. I should remove your hands and lock them away so you can never lay this Rune upon anyone ever again." Viktor felt feverish as he spoke and Jayce stared at him, those golden-brown eyes scanning him over. "I couldn't even make it to where you were because I was so plagued by visions of bloodshed and gore by my own hands that I had to come back and hide." Jayce's eyes became desperate as he stated that it was the only way he could bring him back. "And with that crystal on your body again! With that Rune!! I didn't even leave this time and you still betrayed me?!" Viktor's voice became shrill. "IT WAS THE ONLY WAY!!" Jayce's voice suddenly erupted into a roar that made Viktor jerk backwards, slamming himself against the wall. Jayce had tears in his eyes and he quickly softened his voice again. His eyes were scanning Viktor over desperately. "W-We found the crystal in the rubble, it was salvaged from the main explosive. I could not bring you back without it." Jayce raised a hand to his head, his breathing having become off-kilter. "I couldn't lose you again. I couldn't. Th-The Hexcore's gone. It only lives on in you and it was the only reason you were even still clinging to life like you were. Good gods, Viktor, you were right at the center of the explosion. You and this body should have been blown to fucking bits." Viktor was breathing just as heavily and it clicked for him that he was also crying. "This is necromancy, Jayce." He stated in a shaking tone. Jayce instantly replied that no one else knew. That he'd gotten him out of there before anyone else could see. That it was only his insides that had been damaged. "What did you do to me??" Jayce stared at him and his shoulders sank. "I brought you back to me. Viktor, please." Jayce's voice was so strangled that it sounded painful. "You're alive. Viktor, please, you're alive." Viktor felt the tears finally spill down his face. "Th-The body fused to you. It's yours. It's you. You don't understand." Jayce reached out and Viktor flinched as Jayce grabbed his hand. "V-Viktor, I was ready to cut you open and repair your organs myself. I was ready to reassemble you piece by fucking piece." Jayce's voice strained into breathlessness each time, holding Viktor's knuckles against his chest. It was, luckily, his gloved hand, but Viktor could feel Jayce's heart racing. He wanted to remove it straight from Jayce's chest. He wanted to plunge his fingers into his skin and pull open his ribcage to reach the pulsing organ. He wanted to hear the rip and tear as he took it out and he wanted to feel it beat in his palm. No. Viktor gagged and squeezed his eyes shut, turning his head away. "I-I know. I know you're fighting those... those thoughts and those urges. I-I'm doing the same. I promise I'm doing the same and we can fight them together." Jayce insisted, staring at him with wide eyes. Viktor wasn't even sure he'd blinked yet. "I-I want to explore this new body of yours in the most surgical and bloody way and it makes me sick." His voice wavered on the last word, but he sounded far too insistent and joyful. Viktor opened his eyes and turned back to look at him. Jayce had a slice through his jacket on his shoulder and the red was staining the once-pristine coat. Both of the shoulder adornments had been returned to it. Finally, Jayce suddenly grabbed him and dragged him forward into a hug. "Y-You won't leave me, will you?? You won't fall again?? Please, Viktor, please don't do it. Please, I couldn't lose you again, I had to bring you back. I had to be able to hold you again." Jayce sounded downright pathetic as he pleaded him and Viktor spoke against his will. "I should remove your tongue with my bare hands and make you choke on it." His voice was scathing and breathy. He felt Jayce's grip tighten on him and he replied that he'd let him. Viktor's arms shakily raised to hold him back, curling his ungloved hand so he wouldn't touch Jayce. His gloved hand suddenly touched something wet and he inhaled shakily as he felt a massive slice along Jayce's back. He yanked himself backwards so hard, he nearly knocked all the breath out of himself against the wall. "Do not come near me with open wounds. I will peel them open. I will skin you alive. I will expose all your insides to the outside with my bare hands." Viktor spoke feverishly again and Jayce nodded, saying in a strained voice that he knew. "Then get away from me, Jayce." "I can't. You know I can't. I will raise you from the dead a hundred times over to keep you with me and you know it." Jayce reached out with shaky hands to push Viktor's bangs out of his face. He scanned him over again. "Viktor, I need you. I need you, please. Please don't leave me." He sounded pathetic again, all of his pride and his ego having been absolutely thrown away as he begged Viktor, right there on his knees. Viktor could only stare at him. The door was there. The door was there and he could leave. He knew it would be a fight. He knew Jayce would not let him. He knew he would have to kill him to get out of here. His fingers twitched on his ungloved hand. He could warp him all out of shape. Turn him inside out and then some. He could end him all right here. "I'll resign from the Council. My place will be here, with you, in the lab. You won't need to be alone. I can stay with you." Viktor's breathing was heavy. Despite his grievances and that violence that clouded his mind, Jayce's frantic begging was doing something to his buzzing heart. Viktor felt more tears spill over as he squeezed his eyes shut, letting out the shakiest whimper. Instantly, Jayce pulled Viktor back into his arms. "I-I didn't bring the Rune back because I was addicted to it, I brought it back to save you. Surely that counts for something." Viktor's face was buried against Jayce's chest and his heart was so close to his teeth. There was just that pesky layer of skin Viktor needed to eat through and a few ribs to break before he could taste that pumping organ on his tongue. He inhaled shakily. "Jayce..." The other's name fluttered off his tongue. "I want to eat your fucking heart." Jayce's arms tightened around him and he nodded."I know. I won't stop you if you try." He stated. Viktor's grip tightened on him and his throat kept spasming as he fought the urge to rip into Jayce's neck right then and there. He jumped as Jayce's hand moved to his head, smoothing his hair back. Viktor teared up again and a strained whimper left him as he squeezed his eyes shut. Jayce buried his face against the top of Viktor's head. "Y-You're still so beautiful, painted in the Arcane's colors." He inhaled shakily. "But I wish you still bled red so I could paint you in mine." Viktor's gloved hand curled into the fabric of Jayce's coat. He reached up and Jayce flinched, swearing as Viktor pushed his gloved fingers into the wound on his shoulder. He pulled them out before tipping his head and drawing them down his cheek, leaving behind that dark red staining. He asked in a whisper if this was what Jayce wanted. Jayce stared at him. He seemed to be struggling between pale and red. He swallowed. "Viktor, don't make me tear you open. Don't make me get sick like that. If you paint yourself in my red, I'll paint myself in your purple and you know I will." Viktor inhaled shakily again. Despite how loud the urges were, despite all the horrifying things he wanted to do to Jayce right then, he was growing calmer. His gloved fingers curled back into the fabric of his coat, staining it even more. "I should kill you for doing this to me. I should tear you limb from limb and then some. I should scatter your organs and entrails from this window." Viktor stated in a trembling voice. "I should kill you." "Then try. Try to kill me." Jayce answered, continuing to hold Viktor against him. He was holding one of Viktor's wrists and the pressure was slowly growing heavier and heavier. Viktor froze up. "I know that look. You're thinking of running. Viktor, I will break your bones. I'll remove one leg and leave it in this room to remind you that you can't ever leave again." Jayce's voice was hushed. "You may want to kill me, but I want to keep you. I guess we'll have to find out which one is worse. If you try to kill me, I'll let you. But if you try to run, I will hurt you." That grip on Viktor's wrist was crushing and he could already see the bruising with how bad it was. It hurt. He felt tears spring to his eyes again and he gave his wrist a slight yank. Jayce finally released it, though it felt like some invisible force had pried it off with a crowbar. "There are exactly thirteen Binding Runes on your body and I will count them everyday." Viktor's gaze flicked up to him, his eyes unblinking. "You need those in order to remain in this body. And if you damage any of them, I will know. If you try to leave me..." Jayce's voice was so gentle that Viktor knew one could be fooled if they weren't fully listening. "If you damage any of them, I will carve it right back into your open flesh. Do you understand??" Jayce asked softly. Viktor pulled away, turning to face him. He tipped his head. "I should pull out your eyes with how you look at me and I should rip out your tongue with how you speak to me and I should strip you of your skin with how you touch me." Viktor stated, a wheeze underlining his words. "I could corrupt you with a touch. I could turn your bones into an exoskeleton in an instant. You might even still be alive. You might even just be a pile of flesh, wrapped in bone, your final moments in agony." A smile seemed to pull at Jayce's lips and Viktor searched him over before furrowing his brow. "...You have done something else. What have you done??" He asked shakily. Jayce spoke in a calming voice, saying that Viktor wouldn't have to worry about it. He reached out, gently cupping Viktor's face. Viktor could feel how warm his hands were and he reached up, shakily placing his over Jayce's. He had to shift his ungloved hand so only the palm was pressing against it and not his fingers. "What did you do, Jayce?? What else have you done to me? Thirteen of these Runes is not enough??" His voice became strangled. "You should've let me die." "...But I'm not ready to die yet." Jayce replied, those golden-brown eyes roaming over his. Viktor paused and, after a moment, his stomach sank. "I know you found that page I took from the book. I know you ripped the illustration of the Rune straight in two and you destroyed what was left of it. I know you went back to Piltover to do just that. Do you think the information just leaves my head because the physical words are gone?? No. That's, uh, that's not how it works." Jayce scanned him over before giving a deceptively gentle smile. "I think you know what I've done. You can try to kill me all you want. If you succeed, we go together."Viktor whispered that he was a bastard. An absolute, utterly vile bastard. Tears welled in his eyes and Jayce leaned his head forward, gently pressing their foreheads together. "You could not have picked a worse display. There could not possibly be a worse proposal than yours." He heard Jayce give a small chuckle, making him squeeze his eyes shut as his heart ached. "'Till Death do us part, Viktor."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
As he'd promised, Jayce had resigned from the Council. He hadn't even told Viktor until nearly a week after it had been done. Almost every waking moment was spent together and... Viktor wasn't sure he hated it. He'd started to calm down a lot faster when the violent thoughts worked him up. Even now, he was sitting at the desk, his head leaned against his bandaged hands as he drew small doodles on a piece of paper. His mind was... startlingly quiet. The bandages on his fingers were still stained purple. There was another bandage around his neck and he wasn't quite able to breathe without keeping his mouth open. The bandages on his hands had been of his own infliction. The one on his neck, however... The sound of the pen came to a scratching stop. Viktor wondered where Mel was. She'd disappeared shortly after the Zaunite attack, which Viktor still had no answers for. Obviously what had happened to the Council had nullified the deal, but he still didn't understand why. Why had Jinx done that?? What had possessed her to do that?? What had happened to her??Viktor stared down at the braids he'd drawn on the paper. Uneven. Scruffy. Just as he remembered them. His eyes trailed up to the gold designs of Mel's shoulders that he'd sketched from memory. No... where was she?? Really. Both Mel and Elora had disappeared without a trace. It even concerned Jayce, who usually only left the lab so he could search around for her. Viktor never usually left the lab anymore. Not without Jayce. He had certainly tried to go without him. His lip slightly curled as he pressed his fingers to his tender throat. He was still absolutely pissed he'd gotten caught, knowing that if that one student hadn't been there, he would've made it. He had no idea what was happening outside the lab. Jayce barely told him anything and they never ventured far from the Academy. Viktor had started to suspect that Jayce didn't really know what was going on either. Ever since he'd resigned from the Council, his knowledge of the outside had decreased drastically. Viktor's pen started to scratch across the paper again, though the pressure he was applying had started to tear into it. Viktor's pen came to a stop. Three seconds of silence. Three minutes of silence. Three teardrops on the paper. The pen clattered to the desk and Viktor buried his head in his hands. Every so often, the circumstances would hit him. The weight of how he'd gotten here would all come crashing in at once. And every single time, it hurt so badly that it felt like his heart was being crushed. He always tried so hard to ignore it. He would do anything to push it to the back of his mind, but this was all so completely and utterly... Viktor didn't even hear the opening door, nor the footsteps approaching him and he paused as a bowl of warm soup was placed next to him with a toasted, buttery sandwich. Viktor stared at it quietly. It smelled good. He paused and looked back up at Jayce as the other stroked his hand over his hair. "...Trying to apologize?" Viktor asked quietly, raising a brow. Jayce scoffed, replying that he hoped that wasn't too obvious. He still had a bandage on the underside of his jaw, where Viktor had tried to cut him. He'd partially succeeded. Viktor pushed the paper to the side before pulling the bowl and the sandwich over. He took small bites of the sandwich, though it hurt to swallow with his throat. After the third bite, he already had tears in his eyes and his hand had curled up into a shaking fist as he buried his head against his arm. "...I'm sorry, Viktor." Jayce still sounded pained and Viktor shook his head. He mumbled that he'd tried to stab him. Multiple times. "I know, but I should've..." Jayce crossed his arms tightly, heard pacing around behind Viktor. "I should've let go once you... went limp." Viktor's shoulders sank as he gave a weak, wheezy sigh. He finally said that the sandwich was really good and Jayce was heard coming up next to him, pulling over a chair and sitting down. He leaned forward, resting his head against Viktor's shoulder. It was one of the times they both seemed calm and their urges were quietest. Viktor was starving. He wasn't even sure when the last time he ate was. Having a flesh and blood body again, no matter how warped, was proving to be quite a task. He finally placed down the sandwich again, pushing himself to sit up straight. Jayce was watching him in worry before blinking in surprise as Viktor turned and leaned against him. Jayce's hands twitched, but he simply wrapped his arms around Viktor, pressing his cheek to his head. "A day or so ago, something changed. There is a disruption somewhere, but I cannot quite place it. A rip through our world. A hole into the Arcane. I hadn't processed it until you had gone to sleep. When I had finally recovered from this-" He held a hand up to his neck. "-and I realized that the ringing I was hearing had remained. It has become... background noise to me, but it is still there." Viktor's brow was furrowed. He had felt Jayce freeze up. "I'll go searching for it. Do you have any idea of a direction?" Jayce asked, his voice instantly filling with concern. Viktor paused. He tried to focus, but his vision blurred and his stomach turned. He pulled away, saying he didn't have the energy yet. "Okay, please eat." Jayce's voice was soft and prompting. He reached out, tucking one of Viktor's bangs behind his ear. "You haven't been eating. I offer to bring you food all the time and you just wave me off. Maybe I should just stop asking and just bring you stuff." Viktor scoffed softly. He wasn't sure he could handle finishing the sandwich right then, so he switched, focusing on the soup. It was rich and flavorful, the heat soothing his injured throat. He paused after a few sips from his spoon, closing his eyes. "Is it good?" Jayce sounded amused, but there was an undertone of anxiousness. Viktor nodded, thanking him. Jayce visibly perked up. He fell quiet, leaning against the desk and watching Viktor as he took each sip. Viktor asked if there'd been any word on the conflict and Jayce paused. "Piltover's started cracking down on Zaun. There's been no sign of Silco and I even heard whispers of martial law." Jayce sighed quietly. "I... I'm not quite sure what's going to happen. That Noxian army is still in Piltover as well." Viktor watched as Jayce slid a hand up into his hair, curling it up. Jayce had been looking less put-together lately. His hair was always loosely styled as opposed to his pristine look before. He'd still been shaving, at least. Pieces of hair always hung down into his face. Viktor took another few sips of soup. He paused before placing the spoon down and scooping his hands on either side of the bowl, picking it up. He heard Jayce break out in quiet laughter as he started to take small sips from the bowl itself. "The soup must be good then. I'm glad." It sounded like that was easing Jayce's anxiety a little. He paused before speaking again. "...I almost put rat poison in it." Viktor set the bowl down, rolling his eyes."I hope you would provide us with a more dignified way to go out than that." Viktor stated flatly, shooting him a look. Jayce sighed before a smile pulled at his lips and he replied that it would be a little funny. "It would not." Viktor said, scoffing. He stared at the sandwich quietly. Jayce seemed to take notice of this and saying he didn't have to eat it. "...I would like to, I'm just unsure if I physically can." Viktor sighed through his nose. "Perhaps I can try again later. The soup should be enough to hold me over for now." He glanced over at Jayce. "Have you found any trace of Miss Merdarda?" Jayce paused before his shoulders sank and he replied that it was like she'd disappeared entirely. Viktor's hands curled up against the table. "I'll keep looking. Once I settle whatever disturbance you're feeling." Jayce promised quietly. Viktor glanced at him, asking if he was so confident in his ability to do so. "Hextech was made from pieces of the Arcane. Surely that'll do something." Viktor raised a brow before asking why Jayce wouldn't just bring him. "Would you want to go?" Viktor reminded him flatly that it had been him who'd helped pull their reality back together with his own hands. He stated that he felt it would be wise to bring him along if he was this attuned to the Arcane. "Right. Sorry, sometimes I forget this appearance wasn't... one you chose." Jayce reached out, lifting a bit of Viktor's purple-tipped, white hair. "Your eyes have been cool-toned lately. Blue and teal instead of the pink and gold." He sounded slightly worried about that. "Is that from our... our... arguments?"That was certainly a word for what they did. An extreme and unbelievable understatement. Their 'arguments' often ended with Jayce becoming sick in the bathroom over the bloodshed they inflicted on each other. Viktor and Jayce had both had to patch each other up. Occasionally, they both even needed stitches. Jayce was relatively able to physically handle Viktor's temporary submission into his urges and Viktor was able to coax Jayce out of his, but it was when both of their violent thoughts were loud at the same time that things took a turn for the worse. Viktor much preferred when both of their thoughts were quietest. At the very least, he knew Jayce would control him if he got out of hand. And there had yet to be a time where Viktor couldn't calm Jayce down with soft words and touches. Viktor much preferred this temporary peace. He paused as Jayce smiled, asking if he wanted to go lay down. Viktor glanced at his empty bowl before nodding. Jayce stood up, offering his hand. "Wrist." Viktor gave him his wrist, Jayce knowing not to grab his hands right now. He helped Viktor up and turned. They made their way over to the window seat and Viktor rolled his eyes as Jayce laid on his back and pat his chest. "Come on. You sleep through the night whenever we lay like this." Viktor hated to admit it, but it was true. Any night that Jayce slept at the desk or on the floor, Viktor would wake up screaming from terrible nightmares. Visions of blood and gore. Mechanical, winding limbs. Viktor moved up onto the window seat before carefully climbing over Jayce and shakily lowering himself down onto him. Jayce shifted until the curves of their bodies fit together and his arm could slip over Viktor's waist. Viktor pressed his head against Jayce's chest and he could hear that calm heartbeat. If it had been a worse night, that would've spurred Viktor's violent urges, but for now, it was something comforting. "Not planning on trying to bite my throat out this time?" Jayce asked, carefully tucking the pillow under his own head. Viktor replied that he hadn't even planned it when he had done that. "Mm. I think I recall you saying I was pretty annoying that day." Viktor replied that he had been. He trailed off and started to speak again, but Jayce spoke again in a softer voice. "I know. I'm just teasing." His free hand stroked through Viktor's hair and it made him close his eyes as he felt Jayce's fingers brush along his scalp.It hadn't even taken a day for Jayce to break down apologizing for what he'd done and the things he'd said to Viktor. For the threats he'd made and this bond that he'd forced upon him. Of course, the threats had actually proved to be warnings and the bond was irreversible. The damage was long done. Viktor wasn't sure when he'd... He wouldn't quite call it 'forgiving' Jayce, but he'd just started to feel so bad for him that it had mellowed out the tension between them. Their first full-blown 'fight' had left both of them bloody and terrified. Jayce hadn't left the bathroom all night and Viktor had hidden himself under the desk. They hadn't spoken or looked at each other for two days after that. Viktor glanced up at Jayce from where he was laying on his chest. It was just after sunset outside and Viktor blinked as Jayce glanced down at him. "I can't tell if they're just reflecting the sky or if your eyes are actually pink right now." Jayce's finger brushed over his cheek and Viktor felt his face weakly flush. He leaned his head against it in a silent invitation and Jayce took it, cupping his cheek. "...I wish this was how it could be all the time. I just... I really just... ruined everything..." Viktor glanced up at him. "You did." He agreed softly. "And yet, I remain, here on your chest with your hand holding my cheek." Jayce stared at him before saying he was too kind. "Funny. I swear I have heard that before." Jayce gave a weak laugh, though he still looked stressed and guilty to hell. Viktor laid his head back down. Jayce's hand moved to rest on his shoulder, his other arm around Viktor's waist. Viktor could feel the expand and shrink of his chest with every breath. "Are you sure I am able to be without my gloves for this long?" He was slightly anxious about it, his fingertips still peeking out from the bandages."Has anything corrupted yet? The bowl and the spoon still seem okay." Jayce said, glancing down at him. Viktor glanced over at the desk. Both the dish and the spoon looked fine. Viktor furrowed his brow. He had been slowly controlling the corruption that spread under his touch. He blinked as Jayce's hand moved from his cheek and spread next to him. Viktor shrank back a little, saying he didn't think that was a good idea. "Just for a few minutes? Please?" Jayce asked quietly, scanning him over. Viktor hesitated and glanced over at his hand again. He finally spoke again, reiterating that he didn't want to hurt him. "Oh, not right now?" Jayce joked softly. Viktor huffed at him a little. His shoulders were scrunched up. He really didn't... He lifted his hand, but quickly pulled it back into a fist again. He was staring at the crystal that was on the bracelet that still adorned Jayce's wrist. He asked if Jayce could move it to the other wrist in a quiet voice. Jayce paused before suggesting they try the other hand. Viktor shifted a little as Jayce pulled his other arm up and spread his hand. Viktor was a little disappointed that he couldn't get Jayce to take off the bracelet even for a moment. He reached out again. Three seconds of hesitation. This really didn't seem like a good idea. His fingers were trembling and every time he managed to get close, he would back out. Jayce only watched him quietly. Viktor finally slipped his slender, bandaged fingers through Jayce's larger ones and jumped as Jayce's hand closed on his. "You don't have to do it too. Just let me... hold it." Jayce requested. Viktor stared at him before nodding, his body sinking against Jayce's. It was nice for them both to relax for once. Viktor watched as Jayce laid their hands against the windowsill. Those golden-brown eyes turned to look down at him. "...No comments on how pretty my eyes would be outside of my body?" Viktor asked quietly. Jayce replied that he wasn't thinking about that today. "Perhaps tomorrow." Jayce nodded, agreeing. Viktor closed his eyes, listening to Jayce's breathing and his heartbeat. It was rare he felt... soothed. When the veil of sleep swept over him, it felt warm. However, it was thin and Viktor's rest was soon interrupted by the click of a door, along with footsteps that definitely did not belong to the man still sleeping beneath him.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
For a moment, Viktor could only stare at the windowsill in front of him. The first thing he noticed was that his hand was still slipped into Jayce's. The bandages were warped and stained with colors, while that webbing stretched from their hands up the sides of the window frame. Reminiscent of butterfly wings. Despite this, Jayce's skin seemed unblemished by the corruption. Untouched. Viktor could only stare. He paused as he felt a light wash over him and he heard the voice of a young man swear quietly before stating that they were over by the window. He paused as he heard a much more familiar voice. "I don't recognize that pale lad he's holding." Heimerdinger's voice was curious, yet hushed. Well, as hushed as a Yordle like him could be. The light shone on them again and he heard the young man hiss that the pattern on the window was the same one. "It is the same one. Then Jayce must have the answers." "You have quite a bit of faith in him, Professor." Viktor stated softly, slipping to the side so he could climb off Jayce without waking him. He carefully slipped his hand from Jayce's before sitting on the edge of the window seat to face their unwanted guests. He sat up and startled as a glowing green point was suddenly at his throat. It was attached to a blade, which was being wielded by a young man that Viktor didn't recognize. However, he did recognize that symbol on his jacket and painted onto his nose. "A Firelight this far into Piltover?" Instantly, the tip of the blade pressed further as the boy hissed what it was to him. Viktor's eyes trailed down to the small figure cloaked next to him. Heimerdinger pulled his hood off, his eyes wide in shock. "...Viktor... Is that really you?" He asked in hushed shock. Viktor replied that, unfortunately, it was. He reached up to brush his hair back before jumping as the young man jammed the tip of the blade just a little more into his skin, snapping for him not to move. Heimerdinger immediately turned to the boy, saying not to hurt Viktor, but Viktor's eyes weakened and the boy seemed momentarily shocked by his expression. "Cutting my throat now would be doing everyone a favor, including me." Viktor stated. He reached up, using a bandaged finger to push the blade away from his throat. "I take it you need Jayce for something though." The boy cast an uncertain look down at Heimerdinger, who crept forward. He said Viktor's name and he turned to look at the Yordle with dull eyes. "My boy. Please come here." Heimerdinger's voice was quiet. Viktor paused before slipping off the window seat and settling down on his knees in front of Heimerdinger. "Viktor." He offered his small hands and Viktor could only stare at them before reaching out. He took them quietly and Heimerdinger's ears shot up in surprise. "You... You are of flesh and blood?? Are you alive, lad??" Excitement had started to creep into his voice again. Viktor blinked, a weak smile pulling at his lips as he nodded. "And your... Your lungs, what of them?? Your leg??" Heimerdinger pat at Viktor's knee urgently, his eyes wide. Viktor replied that they were all fixed. He could breathe. He could walk. "And this... this coloring??" Heimerdinger seemed fascinated by his eyes and hair. Viktor did feel slightly honored that this must've been a genuinely unique thing Heimerdinger had never seen before in his long, long life. Genuinely something new. "Professor. Hate to interrupt, but my tree." The boy stated flatly, slipping the blade into a sheath that slanted across his back. Viktor stared at him quietly before his eyes moved back down to Heimerdinger. He raised a brow, echoing the word 'tree'. "Ah! Bolts and gears, Viktor, you should see Ekko's home! Truly a marvel of engineering- uh..." Heimerdinger cut himself off as Ekko instantly shot him a look. Viktor scoffed before stating that he was a Zaunite as well. That Ekko had no need to worry. He gestured behind him, saying that was the one they needed to worry about. His hand twitched a little. "Well, perhaps we need not wake him at all. That pattern on the wall there, Viktor, could you tell us anything about it??" Heimerdinger gestured up towards the windowsill. Viktor gestured to get Ekko's attention."Light on me." He instructed. Ekko did so and Viktor held up his color-stained bandages. Heimerdinger made a soft noise of shock, saying they were covered in the same pattern. Viktor reached behind him, pressing his fingers to the wood of the window seat. Both Heimerdinger and Ekko flinched backwards as that wood warped into the same webbed pattern. Viktor pulled his hand away. "...I felt a disturbance a day or so ago. Something opened up that shouldn't have. It sports this energy, same to mine. While I have not left the lab, it seems this disturbance has affected a part of Zaun. Jayce and I were going to seek it out, come morning. Since I am attuned to it, I can surely lead us to it." "We need to handle this now. My home is in danger. The foundation of it is warping due to this damn pattern. My people cannot live like this." Ekko instantly stated in a slightly demanding tone. He faltered as Viktor narrowed his eyes and gestured between them. "Our people." He corrected, his voice quiet and warning. He sighed and pushed himself to his feet, turning to Jayce. There was a slight sting from his damaged neck as he reached out and Viktor's hand twitched. Instantly, Viktor's whole body turned and he grasped Jayce's throat with both hands in an absolutely crushing grip, causing the other to wake with a choking noise. His body jerked and Viktor tightened his grip. He wanted it to fucking sting. He wanted it to burn. He wanted Jayce unable to breathe and unable to eat, just like he was. He heard Ekko cry out in shock, Heimerdinger shouting his name. Strong arms suddenly wrapped around Viktor, dragging him backwards and forcing him to let go of Jayce's throat. He was thrown to the floor as Jayce sat up, his body shaking as he coughed. He held a hand up to his own throat, Viktor's bloody nail marks seen in the skin. "...Good morning, Viktor. Fuck." Jayce managed. Viktor replied with a quiet 'good morning' as well. He stated that they had visitors in a calm tone. Jayce rubbed his throat, turning to look at Heimerdinger and Ekko with a raised brow. He greeted them in a wheezy voice and Ekko finally asked if he was alright and what the fuck that had been. "It's... one of the tamer ways I've been woken up. I think he's probably still sore about his throat." Jayce gestured to Viktor calmly before turning to face them and asking what they needed. Ekko stated that he was bleeding and Jayce wrinkled his nose. "Ugh, I know. He used his nails this time." Ekko's eyes were wide and he cast a genuinely unnerved look down at Heimerdinger. Heimerdinger was staring at them quietly. "Viktor... What happened to you?" He sounded slightly guarded and even worried. Viktor's shoulders sank and he unbuttoned the front of his shirt just enough to show off the Binding Runes, asking if Heimerdinger recognized them. And it certainly seemed like he did, the Yordle's ears immediately drawing back. "Viktor." "Jayce committed necromancy." Viktor stated flatly. Ekko instantly went a little pale and Heimerdinger's ears somehow became even flatter. Jayce finally stated that he'd technically still been alive and Viktor rolled his eyes. Heimerdinger shook his head and put his head in his hand. "First, you vote me off my Council. Then, you do the one thing I promised to keep a secret for. You said you would never do it and I promised I would not tell anyone you were even daring to entertain such an idea." Heimerdinger sounded so defeated and disappointed. "I know they're such trivial things to be fussing over, but..." Viktor saw Jayce's shoulders sink. "I haven't told a soul." Jayce replied that he could've invalidated his vote right then and there at the meeting. "I could've. But I didn't. And time away from Piltover... may have done me some good. You were right. I was ignorant to Zaun. I was ignorant to its struggles." Viktor paused. He glanced over at Jayce, who met his gaze just for a moment before looking away. Heimerdinger seemed to note Viktor's confusion. "Jayce informed the Council that he wished to pull you from Zaun because it was fraught with crime and blood. That the people there were sick. In every sense." Oh. That made more sense. "It opened my eyes." Ekko was also staring at Jayce, seeming incredibly unamused. "Sick, huh?" He commented flatly. Jayce glanced away again. Viktor stated that was quite rich coming from him, Jayce leaning back against the window seat with crossed arms. "From someone who committed necromancy, of all things." Jayce instantly replied that Viktor had just been comatose, not dead, and one look at Ekko's face said that didn't make Jayce look any better. "Whatever. I'm not here for whatever issues you guys got going on. I'm here for whatever you did that's sucking the life out of my community." Viktor paused as Jayce spoke, asking if he could tell where the disruption was. A direction or anything. Viktor furrowed his brow and pushed himself to his feet. He sat back on the window seat as his irises lit up feverishly bright. Around him, that webbing started to appear, though its movements were different. Fluid. As if it were... "Jayce. If the energy from the Arcane were traveling through water, where are the possible sources?" He asked, his brow furrowed. He blinked a couple times, dispersing the light from his eyes. Jayce tucked a thumb under his chin, pressing his lips to his knuckles as he tried to think. As he started to speak, Viktor's eyes drifted off and his vision blurred. They were all sick, huh? In every sense? Every Zaunite. What a fucking mouth Jayce had on him. Viktor wanted his tongue ripped out from the root. He pressed his knuckles tight against the floor as he let out a slow exhale. "Viktor, are you comi-" Jayce had started to reach out to him before pausing as Viktor stated flatly that he was going to lose those fingers if they came any closer to him. Jayce rolled his eyes and pulled his hand back. "Are you coming? I think I know exactly where the disruption could be if it's using the water to travel into Zaun." Heimerdinger seemed to be quietly explaining something about Viktor to Ekko, which only made the boy glance over at him with a furrowed brow and uneasy eyes. Jayce moved away to grab his coat and his hammer. Viktor's eyes followed him before his gaze moved to Ekko. "Ekko, is it?" He asked quietly. "...I know my behavior is concerning, to put it lightly. I promise I am not a danger to you or the Professor. Professor Heimerdinger seems to know what this Rune does to those who wield it. However, the effects produced by it only seem to target me against Jayce specifically. I am not a violent man. I do not like hurting people. Even him. But these Runes plant those thoughts upon me." Ekko stared at him quietly and Viktor swore he could see pity in his eyes. Ekko gestured back, saying it was the Piltie who had done it to him. Viktor managed a weak scoff. "Good gods, I could count on my fingers the things he hasn't done to me." "Then why the fuck are you still here??" Ekko said, Heimerdinger saying his name in a scolding tone. Ekko hesitated before speaking again. "Why haven't you disappeared off somewhere? Get away from here. Someplace far away." Viktor stared at him quietly before replying that he'd tried those things. But Jayce had followed. He'd hunted him and, no matter where he went, Jayce would continue to come get him. Or they would both die with him trying. Ekko stared at him, glancing back at Jayce before moving forward, his arms crossed. "Listen, I could take you down to my community. We're hidden. He wouldn't have a chance in the world of finding you." He had lowered his voice. Viktor blinked up at him in surprise. He stated that Ekko had just met him. That Ekko saw what he could do with these hands. That he was dangerous. "Except you're not, are you? You said yourself that it's only towards him. I'd say I'm rather good at picking out liars... You aren't one of them. You're too calm for a wounded animal, Viktor. You have to get out of here." "That almost sounded like a compliment." Viktor replied with a small chuckle. "I wouldn't want to endanger your community, Ekko. I appreciate the offer. Showing this level of kindness to a stranger is a gesture I... have not witnessed in quite some time. Willing to bring something like me into your home." Viktor jumped as Ekko reached out, firmly grabbing his shoulder. "Someone like you would be welcomed in my home. The Firelights shelter the weakened and the wounded. Those who can't care for themselves." Ekko scanned him over. "...Or those who won't." Viktor paused and glanced up at him. His chest did feel warm with appreciation. He felt a smile pull at his lips. His eyes drifted to the side as he repeated that he couldn't. His voice held a tremor. Ekko furrowed his brow, letting out a heavy sigh through his nose before pulling back. Heimerdinger slowly approached Viktor. Viktor could see Jayce watching them all, his hammer humming as he held it. "Viktor. Are you sure you'll be able to follow? It's a long ways away, lad." Heimerdinger sounded worried and Viktor raised a hand, saying he would be fine. Especially with his knee healed. He stared at the Yordle before a weak laugh left him. It seemed to make Heimerdinger's ears lower. "Well, Professor... You failing to stand up for me is no longer the worst thing that has happened to me. I can at least let go of one petty grudge." Heimerdinger instantly frowned. "It was not petty, Viktor. It was far from it. I should have done something. You shouldn't have had to stand alone and I'm sorry. I think about it often. It is rare something haunts me so, but that day I did not speak for you... and that we lost you not even a week later... I have been alive for centuries and I have... not often experienced such a painful guilt. Truly." Heimerdinger raised his eyes to him. Viktor paused, able to feel the tears in his own eyes. They finally escaped and Viktor felt Heimerdinger take his hand, careful to avoid his fingers. Viktor thanked Heimerdinger quietly after a moment. "We cannot dwell. If we are to save Ekko's home, we must leave." Viktor said, pushing himself to his feet and pulling his hand from Heimerdinger's. Jayce was already waiting by the door for them, his fingers tracing over his hammer. Viktor paused in the doorway as Jayce held the door. He glanced back at Ekko and Heimerdinger, seeing those looks. Worry. Concern. Three seconds of silence. Viktor turned away and slipped out into the hall, hearing those footsteps follow. Three sets of footsteps.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Those footsteps carried through the pristine hallways and Viktor heard Ekko give an irritated sigh, asking if they were sure this was where it was. It had taken them nearly two hours to get here. Viktor raised a hand to his face and touched at the blood leaking from his nose. He turned back and held his fingers up. "I am quite sure we are near it." He stated in a calm tone. Ekko instantly furrowed his brow, asking if he was alright. "...What kind of answer do you want me to give?" Viktor asked, raising a brow. Ekko rolled his eyes. "Jayce." The other jumped and glanced over at Viktor. "Water, please." Jayce flipped open the flap of the bag strung across his body and Viktor moved over, digging through it as they walked before pulling out the glass bottle. He uncapped it before starting to take small sips. They'd made a pitstop at Jayce's house for water. Viktor's fingers were trembling. His hands shook as he lifted the bottle again before pausing as those large fingers slipped beneath it, holding it steady. "Thank you." "Of course." Jayce replied softly, continuing to walk and match his pace to Viktor's. Viktor finished the bottle and sighed shakily, Jayce's hand pulling away. "...Is it safe to touch you now?" He asked quietly. Viktor glanced over at him. He started to lift his hand hesitantly and Jayce smiled. "How about this?" He offered his pinky and ring finger. That was much more tolerable for Viktor, his shoulders relaxing as he reached over, wrapping his own pinky and ring finger around Jayce's. Viktor could almost sense the confusion of the two behind them. He knew how it looked and he felt bad, knowing that trying to explain anything would only make it worse. "You're bleeding a lot, we must be close." Jayce said, Viktor nodding. He reached up, pressing his sleeve beneath his nose on his free arm before they turned the corner and he was suddenly struck with such a loud warbling that his legs buckled near immediately. "Viktor!" Jayce caught him, Viktor having yanked his hands back to cover his ears. "Which door??" Jayce asked, kneeling and placing him down. There was a hallways stretched out in front of them, the tile still that haunting, pristine white. Viktor needed a moment, holding up his hand as he drew in ragged breaths. He was trying to pinpoint the warbling, his brow furrowed. He could feel more blood running down his face, spilling across his lips. "...Ugh." He heard Jayce lean back a little in disgust and Viktor rolled his eyes. He finally lifted them to stare over the hallway. He paused as Ekko knelt on his other side, watching him in worry. Viktor inhaled shakily before pointing to the third door. It was where the warbling became loudest when he faced it. Jayce nodded. "That's one of the few that would lead down into Zaun." He said, his brow furrowed. "I don't know why a disruption would've opened here, of all places." He started to offer his hand to Viktor and Viktor twitched. Get that away. Get that away, get that away. He instantly opened his mouth and Jayce just barely managed to yank his hand back in time as Viktor's teeth closed with a loud clack on where his fingers would've been. Jayce sighed, seeming more exasperated than anything. "Ekko, could you help him up?" Ekko was hesitant before he stretched out a gloved hand to Viktor. Viktor stared at it before reaching up and taking it. Ekko carefully pulled Viktor to his feet, steadying him as he stumbled. "You're bleeding everywhere." Ekko said, reaching down into the bag he'd brought. He pulled out what seemed to be an extra fabric, similar to the loose scarf he wore around his neck. Viktor took it and began to wipe his face before simply pressing it to his nose. He heard Jayce say something and Viktor blinked as he felt Ekko suddenly grasp his shoulders firmly. What was...? There was the sound of a door opening and Viktor momentarily went blind from how loud the warbling became for a second. He heard Ekko speak again, saying he really didn't think Viktor should go in with them. That his head could explode or something. Viktor scoffed, his voice muffled as he stated that it would be quite a way to go. Ekko shot him an unamused look. Jayce was heard from inside the room now, replying dismissively that Viktor could handle it. "I really..." Ekko trailed off, glancing at Viktor with a furrowed brow. "...Viktor, I really don't think you should go in there." Heimerdinger was inside the room already, though he'd turned to look back at Viktor with lowered ears. Viktor shook his head, saying he would be fine. He just wished his voice didn't shake when he said that. "I do appreciate the concern, Ekko, but I am most attuned. Surely I can help in some regard." Viktor straightened up, finishing wiping his nose best he could before walking forward and slipping into the room. Instantly, the warbling suddenly died down and Viktor could only stare. Atop the platform, a glowing, webbed orb was slowly spinning on some unseen axis. It was massive and those translucent colors flashed and sparked over it. That webbed pattern had spread everywhere, staining the floors and the walls. As Viktor moved closer, he glanced down, watching the color drained from the clothes on his body, leaving him in the palest remnants of brown and khaki. No one else's clothes seemed to be doing that and Viktor trembled. Even the orange had drained from the fabric he was holding. His purple blood gave off an eerie glow. Jayce was staring up at it, his eyes wide. The metal beneath it was warped, but the damage seemed superficial. Viktor could hear Ekko call out to Jayce in a snappish tone, making the other look back with a furrowed brow. Viktor didn't think he could focus on their tense conversation even if he wanted to. He couldn't tear his eyes away from the orb spinning above them. It felt like it was pulling the breath straight from his body. Plucking the air from his lungs. Heimerdinger approached, asking if he was alright before jumping and quickly hurrying away to presumably defuse an argument as Ekko was heard snapping something at Jayce. Viktor... didn't feel alright. He hesitated and his irises flashed once, twice.Three times.A glowing ring suddenly lit up behind his hair, swirling and expanding until it framed his head. His eyes glowed and his arms went limp, falling to his sides and allowing the faded fabric to fall from his fingers. The ring was donning all those colors. White, pink, teal, purple. Hints of blue. Hints of gold. Viktor exhaled shakily. His hair seemed to weave itself out of the hair tie, it falling to the floor as his hair drifted around him like gravity had changed. He startled as he felt the stained bandages unwinding from his hands, drifting up behind him before forming themselves into the shape of a purple arm, the hand forming soon after. It flexed its glowing fingers, the base of the arm seeming to end right before it reached his shoulder blade. Viktor inhaled shakily as he heard Jayce say his name. He finally took control of himself long enough to turn back and look at them. He wasn't sure how scared he looked right then, but he was terrified. He was absolutely terrified. Colorful lines were starting spread up his hands from all of the small slices, burning up into his arms. The hand and arm drifted behind him along with that ring framing his head. Ekko had taken out his blade and assumed a guarded position. Heimerdinger seemed like he'd been pushed behind both Jayce and Ekko, trying to look through them at Viktor. While Jayce still held his hammer, he wouldn't point it at Viktor. "...Viktor?? How do you feel?" He sounded fascinated as he took a few steps forward, Ekko staring at him like he was batshit crazy. Viktor paused. He could feel power flowing through his body. Magic. The Arcane. It... It made him feel sick. He shook his head. "I do not feel well." He managed in a quiet voice. "I... I do not feel well at all." Jayce moved forward with a little more urgency now, reaching out to Viktor with a hand. "Don't!" Viktor jerked back, hugging himself as the extra arm over his shoulder held its hand up instantly. "I feel it moving through me. That energy. That charge. I fear it will unravel you if you touch me." He was breathing heavily. Jayce furrowed his brow, asking what he could do. "I-I don't know. I do not know, it feels... powerful. Yet it is so powerful that all I feel is panic and nausea." Jayce asked how they could get rid of this. "It, uh..." Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, holding a hand up to his head. "It... must be exhausted. The energy must be used up a-and burned away. I could do it." Jayce instantly replied that Viktor was going to collapse. "But I could do it. You will catch me if I fall, will you not?" The question was slightly desperate and he saw Jayce's eyes widen before he replied that he always would. Viktor managed a weak smile in response and Jayce could only seem to stare at him. "Viktor! What if that thing consumes you or burns you up?!" Ekko exclaimed, his eyes wide. Viktor scoffed, replying he'd be doing all of them a favor then. Jayce seemed to snap out of his trance and roll his eyes with a scoff. "Viktor!" Ekko didn't seem to find that amusing at all, his shoulders scrunching. Viktor gave a smile before turning and making his way up the stairs curling around the massive metal pedestal. The closer he got to the orb, it suddenly began to take on warm tones as opposed to his pastel palette. He hesitated as he finally emerged in front of it, the orb having become a messy collage of upset colors. He paused as he heard footsteps moving up the stairs. Jayce came up onto the pedestal, the energy from the orb shining on his face. Ekko and Heimerdinger had followed, though they trailed behind him. "I am uncertain if you should be this close, Jayce." Viktor said, furrowing his brow as his pale hair drifted in front of his face. He jumped as Jayce moved over, reaching out and brushing the hair away with his fingers. Jayce replied that he would go with him. "What?" "We're already bound, aren't we? If you're going to burn up, I may as well burn up with you instead of waiting around." Jayce said, a smile pulling at his lips. Viktor stared at him. "I'm sure the more this thing has to go through, the faster its energy will be exhausted." Jayce turned to look back at Heimerdinger and Ekko. "Professor. Ekko. You two should clear the area, we don't-" Jayce continued to speak, but Viktor was drawn in by that warbling again, turning to look up at the orb. He watched the energy spike and fall over its surface like soundwaves. Without even realizing, he was already moving forward. Three steps forward. He was already reaching up a hand and the moment his fingers settled on the surface, he felt a hand grab his other arm. That was the last thing Viktor could process before his body went numb. All of his senses besides sight had disappeared and he jumped as he was lifted off the ground, being pulled straight into the center of the orb. For a moment, it was peaceful. He was drifting quietly, suspended in air. He blinked as he saw the energy spiking outwards. After a moment, new colors started to appeared in the sphere around him, orbiting him. He could see eyes. Faces. Had the orb pulled them in too?? The other three seemed like they were being shattered like glass, but Viktor stretched out a hand and he hooked his finger onto a blur of red and gold. When he pulled it back, Jayce materialized in front of him with his hammer, Viktor having hooked his shoulder pad. He looked like he'd passed out and Viktor paused before turning. He started to reach out to Heimerdinger and Ekko's colors, but before he could, the sphere gave a rattle. Hearing that noise cut right through his deafness felt like a grenade going off right next to him. Viktor flinched, pulling his hands back to his ears. Jayce's back suddenly hit his, Viktor's floating arm having grabbed him by the back of his collar. Around him, the Binding Rune was starting to appear, speckling the sphere like stars. Ekko and Heimerdinger suddenly began to stitch back together around him and the moment the last pieces of them fell into place, Viktor was dragged downwards with so much force that he felt his ears suddenly pop and it all went quiet. Three seconds of darkness. Three seconds with no air. Three seconds of falling. Three seconds of being pulled out of his skin. Three secondsoffalling. The ground was accompanied by a snap.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor... hadn't felt like this... in a long time. He sat up slowly, able to feel the blood pouring from his ears and running down his face from his nose. But what was keeping him stunned and shaky was the fact that his head had fallen to the side, the vertebrae in his neck having disconnected. Just as they were before. That familiar pounding was back in his head, to the left in the back of his skull. He shakily reached up. His hair had become short again and when he glanced down, all he saw was his Academy uniform. He couldn't speak for a moment. He pressed his fingers to the aching spot and let out a gasp as he broke that section of his skull in, relieving the pressure. He used his other hand to place his head back atop his neck. He felt light. He felt loose. He felt... wrong. And it wasn't just... him. Viktor's blurry vision began to calm, but those dull colors were not changing. His eyes widened as he stared around. He was... sitting in the street. Or what he thought was a street? Everything was overgrown with sickly-looking foliage and that warped webbing. The buildings around him looked absolutely destroyed. His shoulders sank. Was this...? He slowly pushed himself to his feet. Far, far in the distance, he could see the Council Hall building stretching up into rings of clouds against a murky sky. Everything looked... ruined. Viktor watched as a breeze carried dust through the air. The main district of Piltover was so far from him. Viktor trembled before his eyes widened and he turned. Wait, where was...? There! He could see Jayce crumpled against the ground in the distance, his white coat now stained with dirt. His hammer laid nearby. Viktor started to take a step forward, but the moment he put pressure on his leg, that feeling of static suddenly ripped through his calf and his thigh from his damn knee. "Fuck!!" He couldn't stop the swear that jutted from his throat as he nearly fell, keeling over and gripping the sides of his knee with both hands. He applied pressure, inhaling shakily. Viktor hesitated before holding out his hand. Instantly, his cane materialized in it and he used it to straighten himself up again. His hands shook. He hadn't... felt this cane in a long time either. Where had his... no, that. Where had that body gone? He pressed a hand to his chest. No buzzing?? His fingers instantly curled up in panic. He started forward, his steps stunted before he stopped next to Jayce. Would Jayce even be able to hear him?? His eyes trailed to Jayce's bracelet, where the Rune was still glowing. It almost seemed menacing, but at the same time, Viktor was relieved that it had made it through. It meant Jayce would be able to see him. It was dark wherever they were. Viktor was a little more solid than he usually would be during the... day? Was it day? Viktor raised his head to the sky again. He didn't know. He snapped himself out of it and reached down. He jumped as his hand passed through Jayce and he immediately pulled it back, an ache flaring through his chest. He couldn't touch him. A shaking noise left him. "J-Jayce." He finally spoke. "Jayce!!" He couldn't help the desperation in his tone as he carefully settled down on his knees. He hissed at the pressure in his knee before it subsided. "Jayce! Get up! Jayce!" He could feel tears already pricking in his eyes. He raised his hand to wipe his face and froze as there was a clanking noise. He watched as that old, glowing blue chain started to appear from inside his wrist, slowly forming before draping itself over Jayce's body. Instead of connecting to the bracelet, however, the chain seemed to disappear right into Jayce's chest. Viktor inhaled shakily. "Jayce..." His voice weakened and he jumped as Jayce suddenly seemed to stir. "Jayce! Jayce, get up!!" Jayce nearly fell over with how fast he sat up, his eyes not even open yet. However, when they opened, Jayce froze up. He could only stare forward down the destroyed street, watching as wind blew old dirt and dead foliage off the tops of half-demolished buildings. He finally seemed to snap himself out of it. "Vik-" He turned before freezing up as his gaze fell upon Viktor. Viktor finally asked if Jayce could still see him, blurting out the question desperately as he released his cane. It dematerialized the second it hit the ground. Jayce quickly turned over and he reached up, but his fingers slipped through Viktor's cheeks when he tried to cup his face. That seemed to genuinely shake Jayce as he pulled back. "What happened to your body?? Viktor??" He sounded shocked and Viktor whispered that he didn't know. He'd been looking around the whole time, but there was no trace of Heimerdinger or Ekko. Viktor trembled. He jumped as Jayce reached up to where the chain was. "We're still bound, you're just... Did you die...?" Jayce furrowed his brow. "Am I dead?" Viktor quickly turned before pointing at his hammer. "T-Try to pick it up." He instructed quickly. Jayce grunted as he pushed himself to his feet, moving over and reaching out. Viktor felt a medley of emotions sweep through him as Jayce grabbed onto the handle. "Y-You are still alive. It is just me who is d-dead again." Jayce furrowed his brow before stating that he should have been dead as well. "I-I do not think the Bind works unless I am gone. I still remain, if only as a specter." Viktor said, his hand raising to his head. He couldn't believe it. "Jayce, I... I think this is Piltover." Jayce heaved up his hammer before looking back at him with a furrowed brow. He quickly moved back over, kneeling in front of Viktor and reaching out. While he wasn't able to quite touch him, Viktor could feel Jayce's hand ghost against his cheek. The other's eyes drifted past him and widened, Viktor able to tell that Jayce had seen the Council Hall far in the distance. Jayce scanned around them. "...What's happened to it?" He asked after a moment. The one thing that Viktor didn't like... was that it was deathly quiet around them. There was no sign of life. Only the rustling of wind through the foliage and Viktor hesitated to even call it plants because he wasn't sure what it was. The feeling he got from this place... It was cold and unfamiliar. It was threatening and hostile. His breathing had sped up without him even realizing it. "Shh, hey." Jayce seemed hesitant to reach out to him, but Viktor could see the moment that he remembered Viktor couldn't touch him. He opened his arms and pulled Viktor into a loose hug. He was trying to keep Viktor from slipping through his body. "You... You aren't fading away?? You... You're staying with me?" Jayce sounded anxious as he spoke. Viktor immediately replied that he wasn't going anywhere. "Something terrible has happened here, Jayce." He managed in a quiet voice. The urges he usually felt climbing up his throat felt muted. He wondered if it was because he didn't have an easy way to inflict them. Jayce nodded, reaching out and dragging his hammer closer to them. "It is... unbelievably quiet." Jayce replied that it was far too quiet. "Is everyone gone? Can you hear anything?" Jayce replied that he couldn't before asking if Viktor sensed anything. Viktor blinked before replying that it felt like he'd been ripped away from any flow of the Arcane. He couldn't even stand on his own anymore. "I-I'm afraid I am no longer of any use." "Don't say stuff like that." Jayce stated immediately, shooting a look at him. Viktor blinked before nodding, though he glanced off to the side. Jayce stood up, watching over Viktor as he disappeared and rematerialized on his feet. He materialized his cane again. He started to look around before they both froze up at a low, echoing winding noise. Viktor... had heard this noise before. In his nightmares. Even when he woke, he swore he could see hear it in the dead of the night, waiting for something to spring from the darkness of the room. Viktor moved up before leaning past Jayce a little. Down the street, something far too thin and far too tall to be human was moving towards them. One foot in front of the other so deliberately and abruptly. It was humanoid in theory, but all Viktor could hear was the winding of its legs as it walked. The way they forcibly swung around in front of each other. This thing... was trying so hard to just... walk. Viktor flinched as there was a loud cracking noise, making Jayce fully turn around. The cracking was not a noise like his. Nothing to mimic the breaking of bones. No, this was the cracking of wood. The movement of something stiff. The movement of something that should not be moving. Pieces of something were falling off of the humanoid thing's torso as it tipped its head side to side. Viktor blinked as Jayce moved in front of him. He furrowed his brow, moving up to his side. "Jayce. Focus on protecting yourself here. Only you can be touched right now." He whispered to him. Jayce glanced over at him before nodding. Viktor's fingers were lightly curled into Jayce's arm, just for comfort more than anything. Shockingly, Jayce was where he felt safest in this world. He never thought the day would come where this man would be his safe place. Viktor looked the thing over. Its legs were sleek white, if not a little dirty. It had what appeared to be roots sticking out from the left side of its midsection, but everywhere the body would bend, Viktor could see gold. "Jayce. It's mechanical in nature and I believe it may have just pulled itself up from the ground. I believe a shot to the cracked portion of the waist, where the roots are, should be sufficient." The automaton suddenly stopped mid-step and Viktor felt a chill go over his body as they suddenly heard... much more winding from behind them. Winding and cracking and the sound of stones being disturbed. Viktor pressed his back against Jayce's best he could as more humanoid figures started to appear around them. They were climbing the buildings like spiders, some twisting their way out of impossibly small holes in long-fallen rubble. All of them were faceless and several of them were missing limbs. The first one they'd spotted had been completely whole. The figures themselves made no noises at all, but their bodies twisted and wound and wound and wound and- "Jayce. Run." Viktor whispered softly. The figure in front of them suddenly dropped into a crouch. "JAYCE!! RUN!!" Viktor pushed himself into Jayce's body and that seemed to spur the other into a sprint down an open alleyway next to them. Viktor remained a passenger within Jayce's mind, ignoring the strings that approached him. He was breathing heavily, his heart pounding almost as badly as Jayce's. The winding and splintering noises that had erupted behind him were so loud and when Jayce did risk a glance back, all they saw were those figures trying to jam themselves past one another in the alleyway, a moving wall of faceless mess and grasping hands. Viktor felt cold fear rip through his body. He paused as he heard a click and Jayce's hammer split open, a warbling noise starting to gather. Jayce spun on his heels and sent a shot directly into the fray of the figures. It only seemed to halt it temporarily, Jayce taking off again. He was panting. They emerged out into another street, Jayce looking back long enough to see the figures spill over themselves emerging from the alleyway. One suddenly landed in front of them, the wood seeming to coat half its body, along with foliage. Viktor was studying it. It looked like these figures hadn't moved for a very long time. Something had spurred them. Had they sensed Jayce in the area?? Were they built to hunt organic life?? Viktor's hands were squeezed tightly in front of his chest. He jumped as Jayce's hammer fully connected with the figure's left shoulder and he sent it flying into a wall. The wall cracked in and there was a creak, Jayce instantly backing up as the rest of the teetering building slowly started to come down, the ground shaking beneath his feet. Up ahead, the road had split, the other half raised above them. Jayce would have to climb or risk being stuck. He furrowed his brow. It wasn't too high of a climb, but when they happened to glance down... "Jayce." Viktor whispered his name in panic and horror at the narrow entrance to the ravine below. It was narrow enough to easily move over, but still wide enough to fall through."It's okay. It's okay, it's okay, it's okay." Jayce grunted as he heaved his hammer upwards, managing to catch it on the edge. He leaned forward, digging his hands into the dirt and starting to climb the raised road, using thick roots as leverage. He began to climb higher before glancing back down. Viktor felt a chill. The figures had all gathered at the edge of the ravine, standing stiff and straight. There were hundreds of them, stretching all the way back down the street they'd just come from, even standing in the alleys and on the roofs. Jayce turned his head up to continue climbing before they both startled as something new appeared over them. A staff suddenly swept the air near Jayce's chest and they wouldn't have thought much of it if the staff didn't seem to hook the chain itself. Viktor yelped as he was dragged from Jayce's body, dangling like a cat held by the scruff for a moment. "Viktor!!" Jayce instantly started to climb again, his body shaking. As soon as his hand reached the edge, the staff hooked on the chain again and there was the snapping of metal. The chain suddenly exploded into bits, making Viktor jerk like he'd been electrocuted. It certainly felt like it and his eyes widened as Jayce suddenly lost his grip, his body having the same reaction. "JAYCE!!" Viktor screamed out as he watched the other fall, his body disappearing into the narrow crack of the ravine. He swore he heard Jayce call out in response. Viktor was dropped to his knees and he didn't even care about the static exploding from his knee. He jumped as the staff appeared again, pushing the hammer of the ledge and sending it down into the ravine after Jayce. Viktor was breathing heavily and after a moment, he buried his head in his hands at the faint, strangled scream that carried up out of it. Tears had erupted down Viktor's face and he inhaled shakily, a weak hiccup escaping him. Viktor jerked backwards as the staff plunged into the ground in front of him, making him jerk back. He glanced up through teary eyes and froze, his body locking up. He'd only seen this person once in Jayce's memories. A suppressed memory. Maybe, with what had just happened, there'd been a reason for it. he saw no face beneath that hood. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds for a pale, blood-stained, bandaged hand to reach out towards him as the mage spoke in a grating, terrifyingly familiar voice. "You should not be here."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor wasn't sure if this was some kind of sick, twisted joke. That was his voice, wasn't it? Scratchy from disuse and battered with age, but... Viktor instantly turned his attention back to the narrow gap of the ravine. He didn't even need three seconds. He was already pushing himself forward. Three steps forward- Viktor jumped as he was grabbed by the back of the collar and unceremoniously flung backwards. Viktor hit the ground, but materialized back to his feet in an instant. "Please!! Please, I have to go to him!" Viktor finally blurted out. "E-Even if I can't do anything, I have to be there!" "You don't." The mage's voice was cold and he fully turned to face Viktor. Viktor scanned him over before he went a little pale. The cloak the mage wore was stained with colors, but his arms were... Brownish-red splotches stretched all the way up his arms Viktor could even seen it under his nails. When the mage finally lifted his head, that was... that was his face. Old, weathered... bloody. Bloody, bloody, bloody. The mage's chin and lips were caked with dried blood, clearly not his own as his eyes swirled through that warm-toned coloring that Viktor had seen on the orb when he had approached it before. Even that staff. The wood making it up looked splintered and stained. As the mage scanned him over, Viktor felt pain flare through his chest. This... This was a violent man. Through and through. Desperate, powerful, hungry. Viktor started to dematerialize, knowing he would be able to materialize next to Jayce as long as he still had his bracelet. The mage suddenly slammed his staff into the ground and the Binding Rune lit up beneath Viktor's feet. The chains that erupted from it were red and scalding-hot to match, wrapping around Viktor's body with a sizzle. Feeling pain again in this form made him scream out as he was dragged to the ground, forced to his knees. The mage slowly started forward, Viktor seeing him approach through blurry eyes. "Pl-Please. Please just let me-" "No. He is not worth it. He will never be worth it. You both fail every time to end this cycle, but I will not." The mage sounded furious and Viktor glanced up, able to see that pale white hair spilled over his shoulders, the ends having changed into an angry-looking reddish-pink. Every word the mage spoke ripped from his throat in a snarl and Viktor could see his cloak shift to occasionally show the dried stain down the front of his pale chest. There were still translucent lines of color shooting through his skin, all warm-toned and shivering. Viktor trembled as he heard the loud winding from the broken road below. "The mage before let him go. The us from before. He let him go and look what's become of this world. I will not allow it again. I will not allow him again. I will stop this. I will rip him to bloody pieces with my own hands if I must."The mage raised his hand, seeming to study over the dirty, blood-soaked bandages with a morbid look. "Again." Viktor felt himself go cold, even under the burning of the chains. His eyes widened and he screamed out that he couldn't. The mage seemed to ignore him completely, turning away. Viktor shrank back a little. The back of the mage's cloak was torn open down his spine, from his neck to his back, Binding Runes seen seared straight into his flesh, as if placed there by a branding iron held there a few moments too long. The colorful webbing that spread from them still looked sticky and it seemed as if they'd long been infected, but the mage had no way to treat them. "I was too late last time. I was like you. Blinded by what I thought was affection, when it was all just limerence and hate. We do not have affection for him. Deep, deep down, we just want him dead. We just want peace. But not... of this... scale." The mage's hand shook as he gestured around him, turning back to look at Viktor. His eyes kept glowing and finally, Viktor watched as they momentarily weakened. "All that's left are... fields of dreamless solitude." Viktor finally struggled to speak, garnering the mage's attention. "P-Perhaps with all that has h-happened, our optimism has certainly d-declined, but this level of anger in a world long ruined... it feels useless." Viktor shakily lifted his head, even though the chains seemed to burn into the back of his neck. "If you can age, you can die. If this world displeases you so, why have you not left it??" Viktor startled as the mage suddenly appeared in front of him, leaning down. Even now, though all the blood upon him was dry, Viktor could smell it on him. Rot. The mage tipped his head, scanning him over, though Viktor wasn't quite sure he was seeing him. Then, a smile tugged at the mage's bloodied lips. Viktor felt fresh fear flare through his whole body at the sight of those teeth. White. Pristine. A sharp contrast to the rest of the mage's filthy, bloody person. "How original. How very original. Of course that would have been the first path. It is always our first path, is it not? To give up and allow darkness to claim us before any conceivable pain will befall us. We were always cowardly like that. We still are. I still am." That bloodied hand reached out and Viktor shivered in disgust as the mage grabbed his jaw. His hand smelled disgusting. Rot. It was all rot. "Perhaps you had the good fortune of not noticing the Runes burned into my flesh, leaving behind a searing infection that has eaten into the very bones beneath it. But I... am trapped... until this body decays away. I am trapped. I do not want this fate for you. Despite my anger and despite this ghastly appearance, I try to help." The mage sounded feverish at the end and Viktor's heart was pounding. He scanned the mage's face over. "And you believe killing Jayce will prevent me from this??" He flinched as the mage hissed that he knew it. Viktor managed to meet his eyes again. Despite everything... Despite the mage's words... "You won't be able to. Will you?" Viktor's voice was weak. The mage froze up. "If your... machines do not kill him... If he manages to survive against all odds, you will not be able to pull him apart twice. You still shake when you mention how you did so the first time. You will not be able to do it." The mage's eyes narrowed on him and his irises became a haunting gold for a moment before those other colors reappeared. The chains pulled tighter around Viktor, dragging a whimper from his throat. "...Perhaps. But as Jayce always did, I, too, have a contingency. He will not live without you. Yet, he would also never want you to end up like me. Alone. Decaying. Haunted by the memory of tearing his flesh beneath my fingers and pulling out his dirty, beating heart." Despite the harsh words, Viktor shivered as the mage's voice softened with a sickening fondness. "...You are going to lie to him. You are going to make him fall." Viktor stated in a hushed, horrified tone. The mage replied that it didn't have to be falling. That there were other methods. His voice was so calm that Viktor's stomach turned. Now that he did not bear the Runes right then, he felt no violence towards Jayce. No anger. He just wanted him to be okay. He wanted to help him. He wanted to go down there and find him. Even if he couldn't help him, he knew his presence would keep Jayce satiated. It would calm him."It must be him or it must be both of us. We will not die unless it is by his hand. He was sure of it. He was sure. Of. It." Viktor stared at him. "Why can we not live together?? Why must one or both of us die?? Why can we not try to fix instead of end??" His voice strained painfully and the mage's grip became bruisingly tight on his jaw. "Because he will never get better. He will only grow worse and worse and worse. It has happened in this cycle before, I have bore witness to it! Once! Twice! Thrice! Over and over and over!" Viktor flinched as the mage spat the words at him. "...You are going to make him kill me?? Do you know what that would do to him?" Viktor's voice was weak and he only squeezed his eyes shut, tears running down his face as the mage responded. "That is what I anticipate." Viktor replied that this was evil and unjust. The mage responded that the same could be said for the amount of chances they had given him and the amount of chances Viktor still seemed willing to give him. There was a loud rattling noise and both of them looked back as a bright blue beam suddenly erupted from the ravine below, slicing slowly through the air like a knife as gold-jointed limbs accompanied the blast. Mechanical body parts rained down around them, scorched and twitching. The mage made a small noise of interest. They could vaguely hear that voice through the monetary silence. That faint, desperate roar of his name from far, far below. Their name. "If you are lucky, he will die here. If not, I will send him right to you. I care not what your life is like in that moment. I will warp his memories and I will corrupt his vision, if need be. He dies here now or you will both die by his hand later. Either way, this cycle will end here. I can lay and decompose, knowing another version of me will not be back to this place. Not now. Not ever." Viktor couldn't stop the tears streaming down his face. The pain from the burns was nothing compared to the ache in his chest. Was this really all there was?? There was no third option? Just the illusion of choice? He couldn't help the muffled sob that escaped his throat and he lowered his head. The mage stood up and moved back from him. There was another rumble and part of the cliff suddenly erupted into debris as that bright blue beam cut through it, much shakier and much more uncoordinated than the one before it. The mage seemed unbothered, lifting his hand. The Binding Rune released Viktor for just a moment and before he could even attempt to try and teleport down to Jayce, a heavy warping noise swept over him. A sphere had erupted from the mage's hand, encasing Viktor and trapping him completely. He couldn't... He couldn't move. This was the same sphere that had been poisoning the water. Had the mage really just summoned it straight from his palm?? Viktor could even feel his tears frozen on his face. "This must end." The mage closed his hand into a fist and the sphere suddenly collapsed in on Viktor. For a moment, it felt like he was being ripped to shreds. Bit by bit, piece by piece, limb from limb. But just as fast as he was being torn apart, he was being stitched back together with a needle and thread that only left aching in its wake. That symbol burned as it appeared in front of his eyes in the darkness. Viktor really felt like he was going to be sick. He felt like he was going to be sick. His heart was rocketing around his chest and he was suddenly dragged upwards, feeling like something had hooked his shoulder. He was moving so fast that he felt his ears pop again and something wet started running down the sides of his head as he gasped for air. The moment he crashed back into that body, he only had a single moment to process those white walls before his vision went dark again. The world was warping. He was warping. Viktor could feel every bone. Every blood vessel. Every nerve ending. Every twitch of every muscle all at once. He could feel everything. It was agony. Then, he felt the ground. He crashed into the earth and there was pain this time. Viktor shrieked as he felt a searing pain shoot up his hip. He laid there for a moment before startling as he saw a purple hand press against the ground next to it. The arm it was attached to grew longer and suddenly, he was being pushed up into a sitting position. His hip felt... Viktor winced. He could still feel that ring circling the back of his head, framing his face. His legs were splayed limply in front of him and he paused, unsure of why he was able to see them. He reached up and furrowed his brow. All of the clothes he'd been wearing seemed like they had fused into one singular fabric, draped around his body. His white, purple-tipped hair still drifted like it knew only of low gravity and Viktor could still feel that sickening power coursing through him. His eyes could barely focus and he raised his head. He saw yellow. ...Yellow? Viktor managed to focus on the flower that grew between his feet. He could only stare for a moment. His gaze slowly drew upwards and he could see a fissure above him. He could see the sun. He was in a ravine. A massive and lonely ravine. He felt tears started to well in his eyes again before spilling down his face. His hip... felt broken. He touched a hand to it and flinched. Another quiet sob escaped him and he finally lowered his gaze back to the flower. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds of processing. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, opened his mouth, and screamed.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Savior." Viktor pretended not to hear, keeping his eyes closed and his back leaned against the field beneath him. That was not Jayce's voice. He needed to hear Jayce's voice. He swore he was so close to it."Savior!" He still wouldn't open his eyes and he kept his head tilted to the side, pretending to be asleep. It certainly didn't last long because, the next thing he knew, a blade was going through the hand of the purple arm that drifted above his shoulder. Despite it not being completely attached to him, Viktor could still vaguely feel it and he swore loudly, jerking up and opening his eyes as the knife was yanked back out. Viktor raised a hand to his head to shield his eyes from the sun. His hip gave a throb and he winced, immediately moving his hand to it and doubling over a little. The man who'd woken him sheathed his blade and knelt down. "My apologies, Savior, but you weren't getting up and we need you." Viktor cast him a slightly betrayed and pained glance. "Please forgive me. I know I said I wouldn't... wake you like that again, but I couldn't..." He raised a hand to his head, where Viktor's crystalline fingerprints could be seen encompassing his forehead. "...I hear it." Viktor's gaze weakened and he turned his head away. "What am I needed for, Huck?" He asked quietly. The man seemed to scan him over uncertainly before reaching out and taking Viktor's hand with an increasingly panicked look. Viktor sighed, relenting and giving his hand a squeeze. "I forgive you, Huck. What am I needed for?" That seemed to relax Huck and he glanced back towards the village. Good gods, that village. Viktor wasn't even sure how this had happened. It had all started with the man in front of him. Huck. A former Shimmer addict that had found Viktor in this cave. After quite thoroughly stabbing Viktor through the shoulder, Viktor had... 'healed' him out of panic. Maybe in self-defense? He wasn't certain. He also wasn't sure what had been broken and he wasn't sure what it had done, but Viktor knew the Binding Rune had been placed upon Huck and it had cured him of his physical ailments. As always, though, the Binding Rune left much to be desired, with Huck acting out of turn due to the urges implanted within him. It seemed to have opened the floodgates. The weak and the wounded crawled their way to Viktor like bugs. More and more. Each one he was able to 'cure' of their ailments, but each one also started to sport violent tendencies. Out of fear for their loved ones, Viktor had decided to have them stay near him. A growing community had started around Viktor and he wasn't even quite sure why. Despite this, he remained kind. Kind enough to help build housing. Kind enough to help with the plants. Too... Too kind to say no to anyone who came to him. Too kind to go through with healing them, even after warning them and acknowledging what this Rune would do once it was placed upon their skin. Despite sporting the most Binding Runes, Viktor was not a violent man. The target of his Runes was not here. The target of his thoughts was not here and, by extension, the thoughts had no need to even form. He remained... kind. Of course, he was still wary. Many of his so-called 'followers' had attacked him at several points. The attacks never lasted too long and their regret was so overwhelming that Viktor had lost people to the guilt of even laying a hand upon him. That burden weighed heavy on his shoulders. It was why he had to say he forgave them so quickly. If he didn't, he was only likely to find their corpse next. It gave him nightmares. Like everyone else in their commune. The nights were never silent. There was always screaming. There was always someone having the worst visions a higher power could wish upon them and Viktor kept himself curled up in spherical building atop the highest point of the ravine. A structure he'd raised from the ground with his own hands, twisting and warping and molding into the shape he wanted. He'd never displayed such control after that. All around the commune, that webbed pattern and those colors were sunken into everything they could touch. The tents. The clothes. The pathways. Wherever the pathways were not stained red. Viktor was lying in a field of those same flowers. The same he'd encountered upon arriving here. For several days and nights, all he'd done was plant the seeds everywhere he could. Everywhere he knew the rain from above would reach. He often fell asleep among them, it being where his nightmares would occur least. It was the only place where he could occasionally dream of Jayce. If he was still in that horrible place. If he was still alive. If he... was really going to kill him...? He paused, lifting his head as Huck spoke. "There's another person here to see you, Savior. He's in a wheelchair and he looks important. A few of the others have already recognized him... They don't like him. I think he's from Piltover." Viktor paused at that, glancing over at Huck. A Piltover citizen this far down in Zaun? Especially to a commune like this? He asked if he'd been attacked yet and Huck shook his head, saying he had an Enforcer with him. That she looked damaged too. She was protecting him so far.Viktor sighed. "Why you all continue to come to me is beyond my comprehension. Was losing your physical ailments worth the violence that occurs in your minds?" He asked, pushing himself to his feet. He'd scooped up a warped staff, one of the commune members having gifted it to him for his hip. He felt bad when the detailing had become corrupted beneath his touch, but they had seemed happy he was using it regardless. Huck pushed himself to his feet. While Viktor asked this question often and with increasingly saddened and frustrated resignation, Huck answered it all the same each time. "I would bear anything to continue serving you, Savior." He said earnestly, Viktor shooting him a flat look. "The violence is nothing more than hiccups. I feel better now than I ever did before." And Viktor had a feeling Huck meant it. Which was something that completely and utterly saddened him. How one would willing choose a life of intrusive and impulsive violence over what they were currently suffering. Viktor shook out the hand that rose from his back shoulder, reaching up to study the wound. "I-It wasn't your body this time." Viktor replied that he guessed it wasn't, using his thumb to seal up the gash in the floating limb."Please take me to them before the other commune members get too rash." Viktor requested, Huck eagerly replying with a 'yes, Savior' that made Viktor's chest ache again. Savior. Was that really what he was? He truly didn't believe that. Everyone around him felt like half of what they had been when they came to him. Their personalities were dulled. Muted. Viktor, ironically enough, felt as if he were speaking to ghosts. He always went into such great detail to warn newcomers of what they would become if he went through with this and nearly every time, they'd insisted anyway. And Viktor just... couldn't say no to the pain he saw in their eyes. That such circumstances had brought them here. To him. The guilt ate away at him everyday and there were often days he would go without eating until one of the followers found out. As Viktor took a step back onto the path, he adjusted the fabric draped around his body. One of the commune members was a smith and a fine detailer, having outfitted him with gold adornments for his pale lavender fabric. Viktor followed Huck before squeezing his eyes shut as he heard the nearby laughter of children. The children were the worst. The most impressionable. There were several Caretakers assigned to them in case the play-fighting became something much worse. Viktor blinked as he heard the voices start to call out to him. Warm. Tired. A chorus of 'hello, Savior', 'good morning, Savior', and questions of he'd eaten yet or if he'd slept well. He managed a small smile to all of them in response. He glanced up as one of his followers was thrown from a tent, another one following with a knife. The people around them went to go stop him as casually as if they were calming a child throwing a tantrum, taking the knife from him and restraining him after the first stab. Viktor watched in quiet disdain before turning to the front again. He crested the hill with Huck and raised a brow as he saw one of his followers grab the Enforcer from behind and started to dig her teeth into the other woman's neck, making her scream as she quickly drew blood. "Huck." Viktor's voice prompted the other man into a sprint, instantly hooking his fingers into the woman's jaw and forcing her to let go before restraining her, all with a calm, neutral face. The Enforcer was left panting, holding her bleeding throat. Viktor paused as he saw who she was accompanying. The man in the wheelchair seemed to recognize him as well, his eyes growing wide. "...Councilor Salo. I never expected to see you here." Viktor said, steadying himself with his staff as the ring swirled behind his head. Salo only seemed able to stare for a moment. He looked scruffy. He hadn't shaved in a while and he had dark circles beneath tired eyes. Viktor's hands tightened on his staff as he watched Huck sit down with the woman, speaking to her calmly and seeming to help her refocus. "...I never would have wished to see you here." "...I was told there was someone in Zaun who could heal any physical ailment for a price." Salo said after a moment, furrowing his brow and glancing over as Huck wiped the blood from the woman's lips with a handkerchief. "I... didn't think it would be you." Viktor stared at him and he wondered how obvious the pain in his eyes was for Salo's to widen like that. "Wh-What is your price, Viktor? I'm sure I am able to pay it. I... cannot continue like this." He gestured down to his thinned legs that remained awkwardly slanted in the chair. Viktor stared at them before asking if that had happened in the explosion. "My spine was severed. Nothing I have done or tried has brought back the feelings below my waist. You are my only chance." The Enforcer had moved back behind him and Viktor could tell in an instant what was wrong with her, seeing the blood staining her head from both of her ears. He gestured, asking what had happened to her. "The General of that Noxian Army has appointed a dictator in Piltover. Enforcers who do not follow the rules are punished." Viktor furrowed his brow. Good gods, what was happening up there? He gave a quiet sigh. "...I really must protest against this. My... abilities... They will heal you. You will walk again. But you will be imbued with violent urges that often take hold of you. You will hurt people. You... will hurt people. The ones who have stayed were desperate. Exposed to such a life of suffering that they insist to me the nightmares of gore they have here... are better than the dreamless existence they'd had before. This is not a peaceful place. If I am to heal you, you may never know peace again." Viktor's voice held a tremor. "It cannot be undone and you will trapped with those thoughts until you die." Salo furrowed his brow. "...If you still insist, I will do it... but please understand the mental hardships you will be accepting upon yourself." Viktor's third arm drifted over his shoulder, the fingers hanging limp. "That is the price, Councilor.""...I cannot live as this broken creature, Viktor." Salo lifted a hand to his chest, shaking his head. "There is no respect for the broken in Piltover. They cast me aside. They won't even gaze upon me when I roll by. I... figure you might understand such a sentiment." Viktor stared at him before nodding, giving a weak sigh through his nose. Of course he understood. He would know that better than anyone. "I am not a violent man, Viktor." Viktor's hands tightened on his staff. He'd heard that one before. "Physically, I am incapable of most violence. I am easily restrained, even with the full use of my legs." Viktor murmured that that was at least one benefit in a pained voice. "These thoughts of violence you warn of, surely they would be a bit stunted on someone like myself." Ah, there it was. Despite his explanation, Viktor could tell what the true reason behind Salo's calmness was. It made his stomach turn and he pulled his staff closer, resting his head against it. "Do you believe yourself above such thoughts, Allira?" Viktor questioned lightly, making Salo instantly stiffen in shock. Viktor's glowing eyes roamed over him. "Always the life of the party. The pinnacle of sophistication among Piltover's aristocrats. You were even so charming when we met for the first time. Had you any clue I was a Zaunite then? Would you still have placed your lips upon my hand?" Viktor sighed softly. "Because I don't think so." Salo could only stare at him before stating that he needed this in a weakened voice. "You are not grasping the consequences of this. You are not above the Zaunites who reside here. Your mind is not stronger, however much you believe it to be. The thoughts will affect you all the same. Whether you are a 'perfect' Piltover Councilor or a... 'barbaric' Zaunite citizen, my ability affects you all the same. You are not above it." Viktor softened his voice. "I must have you understand that. Please." Salo was quiet for a moment, his jaw slightly clenched and his hands clasped tightly in front of him. His eyes met Viktor's and Viktor had to stop the sinking of his shoulders as he saw the quiet desperation held within them. He silently begged him not to do it. To turn around and return to his wealthy home. Live out the rest of his days. Viktor's eyes slid shut and he lowered his head as Salo spoke again. "...I understand. I wish to proceed." Viktor opened his eyes again before nodding. He swallowed softly. "Huck. Could you please write a note to this young woman, explaining the same? I will come back for her next." Viktor said. Huck eagerly replied with a 'yes, Savior', moving over and starting to guide the Enforcer away. She seemed taken back, but relaxed once Salo gestured that he would be alright. As Huck led her away, Viktor approached Salo's wheelchair. The man raised a hand, saying he was able to move the wheels himself. "I must insist, Councilor. I have told you. The commune members are prone to violence. I would rather you not be attacked before I have the chance to heal you." Salo's fingers curled and a look of uncertainty crossed his face again. "...You can still leave. You don't have to do this, Allira." Using his first name seemed to visibly shake the Councilor and he glanced up at him again. "I wish to proceed, Viktor." He repeated in a quiet voice. He stretched out his hand and Viktor reached out, placing his within it. He knew this was likely the first time in a while someone had let Salo do this for them. Salo pressed his lips to Viktor's knuckles, his own fingers felt shaking. Viktor's other hand tightened on his staff again. It just... made him so... His heart ached. He pulled back his hand, though they were visibly trembling now. He met Viktor's gaze. "I cannot continue living as this broken creature." "Then I will bring you with me." Viktor replied, a tinge of sadness to his voice. "And you will live again as another."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It took Viktor stopping three people from attacking Salo to even get him to the front steps of the spherical structure at the top of the hill. He sighed, knowing he wasn't going to be able to lift Salo to take him inside. He turned him around at the bottom of the steps before moving around. He'd positioned Salo so they were both staring out over the city of tents. "Viktor!" Salo sounded shocked as Viktor reached up, squeezing his eyes shut at the scissors that jutted from his upper arm. His purple blood spilled down his arm, having left a trail all the way up to the sphere. Salo looked pale as he watched Viktor settle himself down on the ground next to him. He let out a shaky breath, placing pressure on the wound. "Are these not your people?? Are you also a target of such violence?!" Salo sounded horrified. Viktor managed a quiet nod as he set down his staff. He replied that, occasionally, there were even times where a follower would try to kill him because of how bad their thoughts were. Because he was the one who'd done it to them. Salo paused before saying that he must've warned them about it, as he had with him. "No warning is ever enough." Viktor spoke in defeat. He started to pull the scissors from his flesh with a quiet tearing sound and he saw Salo flinch away, covering his mouth. Viktor shakily placed the scissors down before setting his staff alongside them. He reached up, trying to stifle the purple blood spilling down his pale skin. "I... believe I will need a moment." He managed. Salo replied that he understood. Realistically, Viktor also wanted to be able to speak to Salo before he became that shell of himself. Before he was nothing more than another enamored follower. He just wanted to speak to someone who would reply instead of listen for a little bit. Viktor placed his head in his clean hand, his hair continuing to drift around his face. "Do you and the Talis boy overlook this community yourselves?" Salo's voice caught him offguard and he lifted his head to look at him in surprise. Salo paused. "My apologies if that's an insensitive assumption to make. You both just seemed quite... close at the last Council Meeting. I assume I must've intruded on your... partnership at the gala and, for that, I do apologize." Viktor felt a weak smile tug at his lips as he shook his head, saying that Jayce wasn't here. "He is not with you?" Salo sounded genuinely shocked by that. "You oversee this whole place by yourself?" Viktor felt like he should've been somewhat offended by that, but he understood the surprise. He'd been timid at the gala. He hadn't said anything at the meeting. Of course Salo wouldn't know much more about him. And... Viktor certainly wouldn't have expected this of himself either at any earlier point in time. Viktor replied that his followers behaved themselves for the most part. That there were no drugs or smugglers here. Sure, the violence had followed, but it wasn't usually malicious. It was spontaneous and impulsive. "...Did you two have a falling-out of sorts?" The wording alone hit such a nerve close to Viktor's heart that he weakly started to laugh. It wasn't amused, but it wasn't pained either. Simply tired. That was... That was certainly one way of describing it, wasn't it? Viktor glanced up at Salo, who was watching him in vague concern from his own tired eyes. "Jayce fell down a ravine. I was not able to follow." He replied. Salo's eyes widened. "So, yes, I suppose you could say there was... there was falling involved." The attempt at a joke didn't seem to work as Salo stated that he was sorry for his loss. "I do not know if he survived. If he did, he will come find me. It is simply a matter of waiting." Salo watched him before saying he could only wait for so long. "And I will wait as long as I need to." There was a moment of silence. One. Two. Three. Salo stated that his optimism was admirable. "I do not think that is the word I would use for this feeling." Viktor replied softly. He watched as his purple blood finally started downward from the hill, still streaming from his wound. "When I was last in Piltover, Councilor Merdarda and her assistant, Miss Elora had both gone missing. Has there been any news on them?" Viktor knew it was near useless to be worrying himself like this, but Salo was the closest thing he had to any kind of information about anything outside his commune right then. Salo paused before saying that Councilor Merdarda was still missing, but her mother, General Ambessa, had all but taken over the city of Piltover. "My most recent Zaunite members tell me that Zaun is restless. That it has been placed under martial law and yet, the Zaunites only grow more uncontainable. That we may be on the brink of something... costly." Viktor said, staring out over his commune. Salo glanced at him before replying that their fears may prove quite true. Viktor stared forward. "...So you are prepared to spend your remaining days here then? Did you come here with the intention of returning to your home?" Salo paused. "...I did not. I had hoped there would be a place for me here." He stated. Viktor scoffed, correcting him and saying that Salo had expected Viktor would accept him because of his title. "That is not true!" The exclamation brought a smile to Viktor's lips again. He covered his mouth and he heard Salo scoff. "The audacity you have to laugh in the face of a Councilor is truly astounding!" And it was the way Viktor couldn't even tell if he was serious or not that made him laugh even harder. When he finally composed himself, he reached up, brushing his drifting hair from his face. He hesitantly lifted his wounded arm, testing if new blood would spill or if the injury had closed. It seemed like it had clotted for now. He sighed and picked up his staff. He moved in front of Salo, apologizing as he said he'd have to use his bloodied arm. Salo wrinkled his nose a little, but nodded. He jumped as Viktor pressed his fingers to his forehead, but kept his fingertips away for now. He could feel the energy. He could pull information from Salo like this without fully affecting him."What is a good job for you, Allira? Perhaps gardening?" Viktor asked, making Salo glance up. "You could be a tapestry maker. Or a sculptor. You seem quite skilled in the arts. I must have you do something while you live here. What would you like? Any profession is welcome." Viktor was trying to sort these things out while Salo still had personality. He wasn't sure how much of it would drain once he healed him, but he knew their conversations certainly wouldn't be much like this anymore. "You sing, as well? Lessons since you were a child. You could teach the children here how to sing." Viktor suggested gently. Salo clearly wasn't sure how Viktor knew all these things, but he finally managed a soft scoff and said he was no good with children. "Mm, I beg to differ. You may have never been given the chance." Viktor replied with a smile. Salo's gaze softened in response before replying that a gardener would be a change of pace for him. "We have a greenhouse with thriving plant life. I would be honored if someone else took care of it with me." "Then honored you shall be." Salo replied lightly, making Viktor blink. The guilt ate away at him, but he only managed a small smile. He replied that he'd had a nice time speaking with him. Salo seemed confused by that and he started to answer before Viktor spread his hand and pressed his fingers around Salo's face. Instantly, the other's voice cut off and his hands suddenly dug into the sides of the wheelchair as his body began to shake spastically. Small choking noises occasionally left him, but Viktor could only squeeze his eyes shut. Swirls of color spun around his arm, changing to electricity once it reached Salo. He could hear the Rune sizzling its way onto Salo's body and he couldn't even bear to look this time. There was a soft cracking and Viktor opened his eyes to watch as Salo's lower half suddenly pulled to the side, the bones heard physically growing back together. He had no doubt it was painful, as evident by the tears that had erupted down Salo's face. Viktor finally pulled his hand away and those sizzling crystalline fingerprints were left around Salo's face. Those eyes had become ever so slightly muddled and a look of confusion passed over his face as he seemed to stare right through Viktor. Viktor watched him for a few moments before his chest screamed out in pain as Salo seemed to finally see him. His blurred eyes filled with adoration and thankfulness. There wasn't anything else. Viktor's heart sank. Salo opened his mouth, but instantly shut it as Viktor held up a hand. He didn't want to hear Salo call him that so soon. He needed time to recover. He tucked his staff in the crook of his uninjured arm before offering his hands. Salo hesitated, glancing down at his wheelchair before reaching up and taking Viktor's hands. Viktor pulled him to his feet and Salo seemed to instantly freeze up in shock at the feeling of standing once again. Viktor took a careful step back, having Salo follow suit. Salo's breathing seemed to speed up in excitement as he realized he was walking again, glancing up at Viktor. Viktor managed a pained, but encouraging look in return before letting go of Salo's hands. Viktor leaned against his staff once more, watching as Salo carefully paced around, one foot in front of the other. He wished he could be proud of himself, but all he felt was numb. His gaze drifted to the ground and momentarily swept out over his commune. Would Jayce have been proud of him?? To see what he'd done? His heart ached. He paused, glancing up from the ground as Salo approached him, a smile on his face and tears in his eyes. He was scanning Viktor over, clearly waiting for permission to speak again. "...Not yet." Viktor said with a smile. "I will be walking you to the springs to clean up. You do appear quite... scruffy." He gestured to Salo's messy facial hair, but it seemed Salo was taking that very seriously. He glanced out over the commune hesitantly, even though that light in his eyes was now permanently off-centered. "I must go with you, as you are now my only Piltover follower in a community of Zaunites. A Piltover Council member, need I remind you. Your experience may be... hostile for the first few days." Viktor offered his hand and Salo glanced back at his wheelchair. "We can use it for parts. You will have no need for it any longer." Viktor assured him. Salo nodded and took his hand. Viktor began to lead him back down towards the commune. Towards the food tent, he could see Huck sitting at one of the benches with the deaf Enforcer, who was absolutely scarfing down her food like she hadn't seen any in days. Viktor wasn't sure if she had. He paused as he felt a shift and quickly let go of Salo's hand, moving to the left and jamming his staff into the teeth of a follower who'd been lunging at Salo. There was a crunch, but it wasn't from the staff, the follower instantly stumbling backward and holding their mouth. Viktor flicked the broken teeth from his staff. "Please return to your dwelling." He requested lightly. The follower nodded, mumbling a stunted 'yes, Savior' through the blood in his mouth. Viktor watched the man limp away before stiffening and quickly moving back to Salo. He flinched as the palm of his purple hand managed to catch the blade inches from Salo's face, the other having gone pale. Viktor watched as the woman who'd thrown it covered her mouth and she stood up, instantly beginning to apologize and beg for forgiveness. Viktor sighed through his nose as he reached up, pulling the knife out with another flinch. "Sit down." She instantly did so and Viktor glanced over. "You are forgiven." She seemed to relax and Viktor reached out, taking Salo's hand again. Salo's hand was tight around his, Viktor having to be hyperaware of his followers' emotions as they moved through the commune. He finally stopped in front of one of the tailors. "Could you put together an outfit for him and bring it to the springs please?" He requested, the woman nodding. She looked Salo up and down before turning and disappearing back into her tent. Viktor finally made it out of the tents with Salo and they walked down the path towards the springs. There was a stand in front of the entrance, filled with everything from hair products, to shaving razors, to towels. There were only three shaving razors and Viktor was very strict about making sure all three were present, which was why he had his followers tell him if they were going to be using one. They were sterilized and cleaned after every use. Salo seemed relieved as he saw the products. A twitch of his nose suggested there weren't nearly as many here as he was used to, but he wouldn't say anything. Right. He... Salo gathered up what he needed from the rack before pausing as Viktor spoke. "You may speak now, Salo. My apologies, I just needed to have you quiet on the trip through the commune." Viktor said, dipping his head. Salo stared at him before smiling again in thankfulness. When he spoke, it was unwavering devotion and robotic adoration. It made Viktor sick. "I owe you my life. Thank you, Savior."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor's throat was raw as he jolted awake, his voice hoarse, which seemed to imply he'd already been screaming for hours. He knocked his staff over and pulled up his leg, holding his calf with teary eyes. There was nothing wrong with it visibly, so why did it burn like that?? It felt like acid was eating away at his skin and Viktor doubled over, even the arm floating over his shoulder wrapping itself around him as the tears finally escaped. Quiet sobs shook his body and he pulled that leg closer to him. He didn't understand. This wasn't even the leg that his bad knee had been on. Why was it his calf?? The burning was inside his muscle and even within his bones. Viktor hiccuped shakily. Good gods, it hurt. He held a hand up to his head as he tried to quiet himself, shaky breaths being pulled in and whimpering exhales coming out. He glanced up. The moonlight shone from outside his sphere. He could see it in the misshapen doorway. It was just barely piercing the thin roof of his spherical structure. What had...? Viktor didn't even remember what he'd been dreaming about. He vaguely recalled fire and the taste of filthy water. He'd been sleeping against the wall inside his sphere. The only two places he slept in the commune were either here or out in the flower fields. Viktor straightened his leg out with a whimper before glancing next to him. Despite his screaming, Salo remained unperturbed, sleeping away as if Viktor hadn't just blown out his vocal cords next to him. He wasn't sure when this had started or why he kept allowing it, but Salo would always come to find him at sunset and he would sleep wherever Viktor did. He was often gone by sunrise or before Viktor even woke up. They never even usually spoke, but it still confused him. Salo barely used the shelter he was given. Viktor continued to calm his breathing, distracting himself by reaching out to Salo's hands. The other's pale hands were always dirty now, due to his gardening and tending of the plants within the greenhouse. Viktor turned his hands over before managing a weak sigh of amusement. Despite how filthy his hands usually were, underneath Salo's nails were picked clean. He tended to them furiously, it seemed. Viktor placed Salo's hands back down before leaning against the wall. His floating arm was wrapped over his body in a tight hug and the colorful light of his ring was illuminating the inside of sphere in slowly shifting colors. Viktor furrowed his brow. He picked up his staff again, pushing himself to his feet. He glanced next to him at Salo, who was curled up on his side. Despite no cushioning or warmth, he looked peaceful. Salo's arrival had been the last he'd heard anything of Piltover outside the commune. He sighed before turning away. He slipped out of the sphere, carefully making his way down the steps. He could already hear someone else screaming from inside the tents, loud crashing heard as well. Viktor's eyes slowly lowered to the ground and he turned away, making his way off the path and back down towards the flower fields. Surprisingly enough, most of the violence inflicted on Salo was from the Enforcer that had brought him here. Sure, the other Zaunites knew that he was a Council member, but she would've been the only one to see what he was like as a Council member. He assumed there had certainly been some... suppressed aggression. The flowers swished past Viktor's legs as he moved into them. He slept here so often that there was already a patch his size waiting for him in the center. It was so easy to breathe here. It was so easy to relax. Well... he glanced back towards the distant screaming. As much as he could relax. A new member had truly shaken him a month ago, having told him that Silco had been dead for months. Silco had been dead for... months. The thought made his heart hurt and his chest ache. All three of those people he'd known from his Academy days. The ones who'd looked out for him. Took care of him. All three of them were gone. And Viktor was left to himself. No one had any information on Sevika and Jinx had apparently caused a massive upset in Stillwater before also disappearing. Not to mention that Mel was still missing and Jayce- Viktor sank to his knees in the flattened patch, squeezing his eyes shut as tears ran down his face. No sign of Jayce. No sign of Ekko or Heimerdinger. No sign of anyone. Anyone he'd known. Anyone. Another hiccup escaped him and he squeezed his eyes shut. Felicia, Vander, and Silco? Gone. Sevika and Jinx? Gone. Mel? Gone. The Hexcore? Gone! Jayce? Gone! Viktor opened his mouth and screamed again, if tearing at his already strained vocal cords as he buried his head against his staff. He broke down into quiet sobbing, his shoulders scrunching up. The light casted from that ring swirling behind his head suddenly seemed to take on cool tones as he cried. Blue and purple. He let out a weak, shaky breath. Why hadn't he just stayed dead? Why hadn't he...? Viktor stared at the ground beneath him. Why did he hold his heart out to bleed where everyone could see it?? He inhaled shakily, closing his eyes again. Three seconds of controlling his breathing. Three seconds to calm. Three- Viktor gagged. He tightened his grip on the staff and huddled closer to it. "No. No, no, no. No, no, no. Leave me alone. Leave me alone." His whispering was weak and feverish as he felt those scales slip over his skin. That serpentine form was winding around his body, the muscles taut with hunger. He always felt it. He always felt it right there in the back of his head, eating away at him. The Rune loved the attention. The undying loyalty and adoration of his followers. The violence he was spreading among them. Knowing that it would be used to fix whatever injuries they had inflicted upon each other. This was the Binding Rune's dream. Those scales continued to slip over his skin, seeming to come right out of his sternum, where his Runes laid. Viktor gagged again. He doubled over, the serpentine body seeming to squeeze the very air out of his. He could feel the edges of his vision pressing inn before it suddenly loosened and Viktor shrieked as it all dragged back inside of him. He swore he could feel it moving under his skin. He began to cough, trying not to be sick. He was silent for a few moments. He knew the sentience of the Binding Rune liked to travel from person to person in his commune. He wasn't sure how, but he would always catch a hint of those scales sliding over someone. It was always him it returned to though, likely due to how many Runes he had compared to everyone else. Its sentience scared him. A consciousness born from a grudge. A consciousness born from being broken apart over and over. A sentience born to hate him. Viktor inhaled shakily. The Binding Rune itself seemed to generally stay with the blacksmiths, the tailors, or the tapestry weavers. He could sense its displeasure from healing people, though it was often remedied by their overwhelming gratitude. But nothing seemed to make the Binding Rune more content than the mending of inanimate objects, seeming pleased with the cleanliness of the task. It never seemed fond of blood or the sounds of flesh. Viktor wondered if it was of Jayce's influence that the Binding Rune seemed to have a preference for machinery and a slight aversion to the mess of organic bodies. He took in another few breaths. "I know... I know you said you would not speak to me, but... you must be connected to Jayce. You must know if he lives. Could I at least know that much?? Could you tell me if he lives?" As Viktor expected, he didn't receive an answer and his shoulders sank. "Please. All I ask is to know if he is alive." Tears ran down Viktor's face again and he squeezed his eyes shut. There was a spark from the third Rune down on his chest. He furrowed his brow and held a hand up to it. There was a second heartbeat, rapidly approaching. Heat suddenly flushed his face and Viktor dropped his staff, covering his mouth with a shaking gasp as he felt a large hand wrapped around himself. He pushed down the fabric between his legs, but it did nothing to stop the jerking of his length. "Ah!! Fu- Wait- Hah!!" Viktor shivered and he swore weakly. He fell back into the flattened patch of flowers, arching his back. "AH!!" That stroking and pumping was desperate. Animalistic. He could feel rough, coarse bandages against his skin. Callouses on the hands. Undeniably and undoubtedly, those hands belonged to- "Hah!!" Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and covered his mouth, his other hand curling into the flattened stems beneath him. He twitched his hips and winced at the slight pain. That second heartbeat in his body was so loud. It was so loud. Viktor felt tears in his eyes as his length gave a heavy throb and a twitch. It already felt like he was almost there and to be thrown into that heavy of a sensation was making his mind foggy. He could barely think as he clawed at the stems beneath him. His thighs were twitching. "V-Viktor..." Fuck. That voice alone pushed Viktor over and he had to bite back the filthy noise he made as his whole body shuddered. He heard that voice let out a gasp of shock and Viktor did cry out this time as a second orgasm shook his body far too soon after the first. It sent him to panting sobs almost immediately. "J-Jayce... Jayce..." He managed his name weakly and he felt that second heartbeat speed up. When the voice spoke again, it was deeper and gruffer than Viktor remembered. It sent heat all the way up to his ears. "Viktor?" "Jayce..." Viktor's voice was hoarse from no screaming and he teared up. Did this mean what he thought?? This was a connection, right?? Right? It meant this was what Jayce was feeling, right?? Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, tears running down his face. He was alive. Good gods, Jayce was alive. The moment the thought crossed his mind, that second heartbeat was ripped from his chest and the connection was severed, despite Viktor craving to know more. He squeezed his eyes shut. It had shown him what he asked. Jayce was alive. Viktor sat up, though he flinched and raised his hand to his hip, panting shakily. "Mm!" He had to bite back another cry of pain as he tried to move his leg, his hip making an unsavory noise. He covered his mouth as there was a slight sticky noise under the fabric and his face flushed in shame. He held it tighter to himself. His heart was pounding. He tied his belt tighter just in case before closing his eyes.He needed someone. He paused before sighing. "Come to me." He spoke with a warbling reverberation beneath his voice. It was rare he had to pull a follower to him, but he genuinely didn't think he could stand and it wasn't because of the embarrassing problem. His hip felt disjointed again. He glanced over as a shape emerged from the opening of his spherical structure. Salo was looking around quietly, seeming confused as he looked out over the commune. Even the screaming had died down. Viktor inhaled shakily and the light from his ring flashed, making Salo jump and turn towards him. His eyes widened and he quickly started to make his way over. "I didn't mean to wake you so suddenly, Salo, I just need some help." "It is not an issue. What do you need, Savior?" Salo asked, moving through the flowers carefully. Viktor had his hand pressed to his hip as he replied he had to go to the springs, but he felt his hip may have broken again. "Yes, Savior." Salo reached out, Viktor taking his hands and letting the other pull him to his feet. He winced, nearly falling as his hip popped. He bit back a shaking noise of pain. His hands curled against Salo's chest, his eyes squeezing shut. "Savior, is this not the fourth time this month?" Viktor paused at the slightly scolding tone that crept into Salo's usual robotic tone. It genuinely surprised him and he looked up at the other with wide eyes. He reached up, his fingers settling on Salo's cheek as he studied his eyes. "Savior??" Viktor's fingers had small crackles of energy slipping between them and the fingerprints, Viktor reading his thoughts. All of a sudden, Salo actually leaned away from his hand a little, his own eyes wide. Viktor froze. A reaction? He instantly pulled back, though he kept nearly all of his body weight on his good leg. Those thoughts?? He wouldn't have expected them from someone so quiet. Viktor felt his face flush as he processed what he'd just seen in Salo's mind. He really did remember Viktor from the gala. He turned his head away. "I need my staff and I need support to get to the springs. You can rest after." He promised quietly, glancing back at Salo. Salo only stared back at him with those grateful, blank, adoring eyes again. Where had that reaction gone?? Viktor furrowed his brow. Salo had reacted to him, right? He had leaned away from his touch. Viktor had never seen a follower do that. He could feel burning in his chest, but it wasn't his. Annoyance, but it wasn't his. The Binding Rune had never seen an action rebuked before in the commune. Was Salo still... there? In some regard? Viktor held out his hand and Salo took it, his arm supporting Viktor's back as they walked, Salo keeping pace with him. They were silent as they walked together. Viktor was trying not to think about the mess beneath the fabric covering his waist. His steps were borderline painful as he limped along, him finally squeezing his eyes shut in relief as they reached the springs. No one was ever to be in the springs at the same time as Viktor. He hadn't made it a rule, but it seemed unspoken among his commune. He scooped up what he needed from the rack, starting to limp forward away from Salo. "Savior?" Viktor jumped a little and turned back to face him with wide eyes. Salo seemed hesitant, standing with his hands in front of him. "Will that be all?" "That will be all. Thank you, Salo." Viktor replied softly. He watched as the other gave a bow before turning and moving back up the path with soft footsteps. Viktor furrowed his brow. Was Salo's Rune not as strong? He had shown both concern and a reaction within two minutes of each other. His followers never showed concern about injuries...And those thoughts. Viktor felt his face flush again and he pressed his hand to his navel. He... hoped Jayce hadn't seen any of those.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The following week or so was something unbearable. Every night, Viktor would wake to that burning in his calf. It felt acidic and diseased. His leg would sometimes feel like mush and he'd gotten sick twice from it. Come morning, it would all be gone and Viktor would be collapsed on the floor of his spherical structure. To put it simply, he hadn't been sleeping. Finally, Salo had insisted, much to Viktor's shock, that Viktor sleep in his bed, in the shelter he'd been given. That maybe he would sleep if he were in an actual bed. That was concern. And that bed was where Viktor woke up. He could see the light shining through the makeshift window of the shelter. And he had... he had slept. Viktor was genuinely stunned silent for a moment. He had slept. The shelter itself was empty and Viktor slowly sat up in the bed. He slid his legs out of the bed first before taking a moment to sit. Instantly, his head became dizzy, his vision blurring as he squeezed his eyes shut. A weak breath escaped him. All of a sudden, he jumped as the curtain to the shelter moved. One of the children was peering in at him but they quickly disappeared before he could say anything. He could hear the child calling out to everyone. "The Savior is awake! He's awake!" Viktor stared at the curtain quietly. Why... did that need an announcement? Were the children planning something? Viktor hesitantly reached out and pulled his staff over to himself. He hugged it against his chest, momentarily leaning against it. After a moment, he heard footsteps. The curtain opened and Salo ducked into the room, though Viktor almost instantly dropped his staff at the sound of something roaring outside. Salo's eyes were wide and he glanced back at the doorway. "Savior, there is a beast in the commune." A beast?? Viktor used his staff to push himself to his feet quickly. He ordered Salo to stay inside and Salo stared after him. "Be careful, Savior!" His voice was taut with worry and Viktor ducked out of the curtains. He could see children running and hiding, though several of his commune members had started to don makeshift weapons. Viktor's breathing sped up and he raised his hand before yanking it down into a fist. Instantly, every follower went stiff, their heads yanked upwards, as if by invisible strings. That roaring died down into heavy panting and growling after a moment. It was coming from closer to the entrance of the commune. All of their arms fell to their sides, all of the weapons falling to the ground. Everyone was frozen. Viktor's heart was pounding. He pulled in soft, shaky breaths, his brow furrowed. A beast in the commune?? Good gods, he hoped it hadn't been here too long. Half of his followers would've offed themselves by now trying to attack it. Any kind of threat only made the urges and thoughts of violence worse. He had no doubt a few of them had even started hallucinating. "Return to your dwellings. Do not leave until I say so." Viktor's reverberating voice carried through the commune almost menacingly. He released his fist and all the followers dropped at once. One by one, they all started to robotically get up, moving and dispersing back into their shelters. Viktor was soon left moving forward along the empty path. He crested the hill and stopped after a moment, holding his staff in front of his chest. For a moment, he couldn't breathe at all, but when he did, that cry left him instantly, strangled and shocked. "JINX!!" He watched as the girl jumped and whipped around to face him, her gun already aimed. Her mouth dropped open in shock, her eyes widening. Her... Her eyes had changed color. Viktor finally managed a smile. "Jinx! Good gods, come here!!" He dropped his staff and Jinx almost tripped over herself as she shoved her gun back into her holster. She took one step forward and Viktor jumped as she suddenly appeared in front of him, tackling him in a hug that nearly took him straight off his feet. "Jinx!! Good gods! I-I didn't think I would ever see you again! You never c-came back to Piltover and Sevika said you'd almost died. Let me look at you!" Viktor reached out and cupped her cheeks, but Jinx had squeezed her eyes shut. "Jinx??" "I-I'm different now. Will you still love me if I'm different now?? I... I have Shimmer in my blood. I-It's all in my body and I... I can't get rid of it." Jinx managed in a quiet voice. "I know you didn't want me getting involved with it before and now I'm all involved. Are you mad at me??" Her voice broke a little and Viktor stared at her. He gently tapped her cheekbones with his thumbs and she finally opened her eyes, looking up at him. Glittering purple liquid suddenly escaped her eyes, running down her face. Those irises were no longer blue, but a deep, haunting red violet. Viktor stared at her before wiping away her Shimmer-filled tears. "...Jinx, look at me." Viktor said, his voice soft and prompting. A weak smile pulled at his lip and she jumped as that purple hand reached down, brushing her bangs out of her face. "I think we've both gone through... quite a few changes." Jinx instantly reached up, grasping at the fingers of the purple hand. "I think we are both different now." She instantly held onto it with huge eyes. It was like Viktor was entertaining her as a kid again. "And, yes, Jinx." Jinx's eyes moved to him, still wide and brimming with tears. "Even if you're different. Even if you choose to leave 'Jinx' behind and move onto another name, I will still love you. Even if you've been physically changed, I will still love you." He spoke assuredly and Jinx opened her mouth, but Viktor was far ahead of her. "I promise, Jinx, I promise." He reached out, pulling her into another hug, which she immediately accepted. "Y-You're all pastel! You're all glowing and pastel and you have three arms!!" Jinx exclaimed, burying her face against him. She pulled back, starting to pace around him. "Your eyes changed too! Your eyes changed like mine!" She was circling. Gods, Viktor hadn't realized how much he missed her circling him like a shark. Like a... Viktor's whole body went rigid and he froze up before turning to face Jinx. Her smile fell as she saw his face and she scrunched up her shoulders as Viktor held out his hands. "I-I'm in trouble?" She hesitated before reaching out and taking his. Viktor gave them a small squeeze. Three seconds of silence."Jinx." He didn't care who she'd come with right then. He didn't care about any beast. He settled them both down on the ground. He wanted Jinx to know it was serious. She stared at him, her fingers already squeezing his anxiously. Viktor spoke in a soft voice, not wanting to accidentally dip into any kind of loud tone that would scare her. "...Why did you send that explosive into the Council Hall? I recognized it the moment it broke through the glass." Viktor stated softly. He saw Jinx's whole body freeze. It felt like even both of her braids had stilled behind her. She stared at him, then around him, then back at him again. Her hands had become crushingly tight on his, but he didn't mind. Tears suddenly welled up in her eyes and streamed down her face. "...You were there?" She asked after a moment, her voice shaking and weak. Viktor stared at her before giving a small sigh through his nose. "S-Silco d-didn't tell me he was bringing y-you back. I thought h-he'd just abandoned you there. I thought h-he'd just l-left you with that shitty, evil man!! I couldn't handle it!" Jinx yelled the last part, her voice cracking. "I couldn't handle it!" She inhaled weakly. "I-It felt like everyone had stopped talking about you except me! W-We weren't allowed to mention y-you and I didn't understand! I didn't get it! Because why?? Why was I not allowed to talk about you?? Y-You and him were the only ones that accepted me changing from Powder to Jinx, why was I not allowed to talk about you after you were taken??" Viktor watched her with sunken shoulders. "I-I misunderstood. I misunderstood and I..." She gave an upset exhale. "...He lived, didn't he?" She sounded so angry and so defeated. "I knew he would be there. I-I didn't know you would be there too." She leaned forward, burying her face into the fabric covering his shoulder. "...He lived... didn't he?" "...Jayce lived." Viktor confirmed softly, Jinx pulling back her hands and sliding them up into her hair, gripping it painfully tight. Viktor held her close as she let out a frustrated scream, her voice carrying. He heard someone call out, but he raised a hand in their direction. He didn't want this interrupted right now. He didn't want Jinx to act out and end up hurting herself. He waited until her scream had fully died down before speaking again. "You took that crystal Rune from Silco's vault. You put it in the explosive." Viktor said, his voice ever so slightly chiding. Jinx gave a shaky nod. Viktor reached up, gently rubbing her back. "...You blew apart reality. Did you know that? I had to pull the fabric of reality back together with my bare hands." He glanced up. "Even before I had a third one." Jinx froze up and looked up at him with wide eyes. Her makeup had started to run. She asked if that was why he was alive and, to not make it any more complicated for her, Viktor nodded. "It's why I'm... alive." He emphasized. He gestured to his hair. "I recall you poking fun at how synthetic my hair was a few times. Even with this coloring... touch it." Viktor invited. Jinx instantly reached up, catching a floating strand of his hair and giving it a small, curious tug. Her eyes widened and she sat up a little more. "Ow." Viktor winced a little as she pulled his hair. "Jinx." She quickly pulled her shaky hands back. She reached out to his chest and seemed to listen for his heartbeat. It was there, that soft buzzing accompanying it. Viktor smiled and reached up, cleaning away the makeup and Shimmer with his thumbs. Jinx stared at him. Her eyes darted around his head, met his, fell to the ground, off to the side and raised to meet his again. "I... I killed Silco, Viktor." She finally spoke and Viktor scanned her over quietly before saying that he already knew. Even though he'd been hoping his assumption wasn't true, it seemed he was out of luck. "I-I have almost k-killed all my dads." She hiccuped softly as she shook her head. Viktor's shoulders sank and he reached up, gently hugging her again. Jinx practically fell limp against him, curling up completely. Viktor gently rubbed her shoulder. He asked why she'd killed Silco and paused as another voice spoke up. "I can answer that one for you. If I'm allowed to talk now, princess." Vi sounded somewhat annoyed and Viktor glanced over at her. She... Viktor blinked in surprise as she knelt next to them. He quickly asked if she was alright, his brow furrowing. It looked like Vi had been dragged through a tar pit. Her hair was stained black, like most of her face. Even her bandages looked like they'd been covered in oil and ash. She had dark smudges beneath her eyes. Vi blinked before managing a weak scoff and glancing to the side. "I look that bad, huh?" Jinx spoke up, her voice muffled as she said that Vi looked like a blob of ink. Vi scoffed at her before her eyes moved back to Viktor. "She, uh..." Vi glanced at Jinx, who froze up and buried her face against Viktor again. "...Silco pulled a gun on me. He was ready to pull the trigger and she was faster. She... She didn't mean to. It was because of me." Vi said after a moment. Jinx echoed immediately that she didn't mean to. Viktor stared at her before his gaze moved down to Jinx. He rubbed her shoulder and Jinx repeated in a strangled tone that she hadn't meant to. "I think... there is something impressive to be said about how you instinctively went to protect her, even after all your years apart. With how you two left each other. With how poorly your reunion went. Despite everything, your first instinct was to protect your sister above all else." Viktor told Jinx, his voice quiet. His eyes raised to Vi, who seemed just as taken back. "That is something incredible, don't you both think?" Vi seemed a little speechless before glancing to the side. Jinx paused and her eyes filled with tears again. "Jinx. You and I both knew that Silco would not live a full life..." Jinx squeezed her eyes shut. "Forgive me, but did you get to say goodbye?" Jinx nodded and Viktor relaxed a little. "Then he was not upset." Jinx's eyes shot open and she looked up at him. "Getting to see his daughter's face in his final moments. Knowing that you did not mean for it. That you did not betray him. It would've meant the world to him in those last few seconds." Jinx immediately blurted out her words, begging him to promise her that he meant that. "I promise, Jinx. I promise, Silco knew he would be killed. Unfortunately, I am quite sure it relieved him... that it was you."That seemed to break Jinx, who buried her face against him and broke down into ugly crying. Viktor paused as he heard rapidly approaching, small footsteps. A young girl suddenly appeared from behind Vi, looking panicked. "Isha, I told you to stay with Vander!" Vi instantly scolded. Viktor's eyes snapped to Vi in an instant and he barely even registered that Jinx's hands had tightened on his fabric. Vi seemed to notice his staring, becoming uncertain. "...Viktor, I, uh, I didn't think I would have to ask this, but... how old are you?" Viktor paused. He glanced down at Jinx. "You look way too young for her to be calling you Dad. And you look way too young to recognize Vander's name that fast." Viktor's throat was dry as he asked if he was here. Vi seemed to glance behind her before looking back at him. "...Yeah. He's here." Viktor didn't like the way she said it and he glanced down at Jinx uncertainly. Jinx sniffled, finally sitting herself up. The little girl, Isha, ran around Viktor in order to hug Jinx. "Y-Yeah... Vander's here. He's... He's different too." Jinx managed weakly. Isha glanced between them and furrowed her brow. "This is one of my dads. His name is Viktor. He used to be dead." Jinx whispered to Isha. Isha's amber eyes went huge and she looked up at Viktor. He used his purple arm to wave and she hesitated before waving back. The gravity of the situation was starting to sink in for him and he squeezed his eyes shut. "Vi. I was warned of a beast in my commune." Viktor managed quietly. Vi was silent before saying that they'd been kind of right about that one. Jinx instantly protested that he was not a beast and Vi held up her hands in defense. She stated firmly that she could understand where the misunderstanding may have happened. Viktor opened his eyes and pushed himself to his feet with his staff. Isha kept holding onto Jinx's leg, even after she'd stood up. Vi had stood up too. "Well, princess, I would ask if you're ready to meet the old man, but I think I might've misjudged you a bit for that joke to land." Vi scoffed softly. Viktor blinked as Jinx asked if she could call him 'princess' too. "Absolutely not." Viktor stated flatly. His hands were shaking on his staff. Vi offered her arm with an attempt at a joking wink. It did manage to pull a quiet laugh from Viktor as he rolled his eyes. "Such a gentleman." He took her arm. Vi started leading him down the hill and Viktor's hand tightened on his staff as the massive, hulking shape at the bottom turned to face them.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor's hand tightened on Vi's arm as the beast slowly lifted its head. It resembled a wolf very, very vaguely, yet it still resembled... a man? Glowing orange eyes burned bright and they landed right on Viktor before narrowing. Instantly, the beast was on its feet, roaring again. "No! No, no!" Jinx quickly moved in front of him, holding her arms out. The beast jerked back, pacing and growling in frustration every time Jinx blocked it from getting closer to Viktor. Viktor pulled his hand from Vi's arm, reaching out and gently taking Jinx's shoulder. She looked back at him. Viktor had lowered his floating arm so it was folded behind his back. Jinx frowned at him, not liking was Viktor was silently prompting her to do. Viktor rolled his eyes as Jinx turned and hugged him, clearly deciding she would protect him with her body. Viktor wrapped an arm around her. He blinked as those orange eyes suddenly appeared in front of him, burning like fire and searching him over. Viktor searched the beast over in response. He paused as he saw the clawed gauntlets its arms were attached to. That glowing, neon green liquid. His eyes trailed up to the capsule the beast had jutting out of its back. Viktor finally closed his eyes and let out a weak sigh. He would recognize Singed's handiwork anywhere. The doctor had never been able to hide much from him, including his twisted little experiments. Viktor had certainly never seen this one though. He didn't even know where Singed could've kept it. Especially if this was who they said, how had he hidden it for so long?? Viktor blinked as hot breath blew his hair back, the beast starting to sniff at him. Viktor didn't move, allowing it to scent him. He wasn't sure what he even smelled like. Jinx was completely tense against him, her fingers curled tightly into the fabric covering his shoulder. Vi had her arms crossed a little tighter and Isha was standing by their legs nervously. The beast continued to sniff at him before raising one of its claws. That claw passed over Viktor's hair and he kept still before realizing it was trying to touch the ring behind his head. A soft chuckle left him and those burning orange eyes followed the noise back down to his face. Viktor did not lower his head. The features of the beast did seem... vaguely familiar. He blinked as one of the claws lowered to his face. The arm folded behind his back instantly held up its hand towards Vi as she uncrossed her arms. Viktor blinked as that claw carefully pushed the hair from his face. The beast tipped its head and Viktor felt breath blow over him as a strangled, gruff voice weaseled its way from the beast's throat. "Book... worm..." Viktor blinked in surprise before smiling. "...I suppose you never learned my name, did you?" He asked, tipping his head. He jumped as that claw suddenly landed on his shoulder and he yelped as he was dragged forward. Vander had captured both him and Jinx in a hug, his chin settling on top of Viktor's head as he tried to bite the swirling ring behind it. Viktor was momentarily startled before laughing. Vander pulled back to sniff at him curiously. Jinx finally jerked both of her arms straight up, making Vander let both of them go. She took in a loud, dramatic breath. "Ugh, I can breathe!" She exclaimed, Viktor smiling as he watched her. He could still feel Vander staring at him and he glanced over before moving forward. He held out his hand and Vander sniffed at it before slightly sitting back and raising one of his claws. Viktor blinked before laughing softly and shaking one of them. "My name is Viktor. It is good to see you again, Vander." He said quietly. Those eyes softened on him. "I see we both have undergone some changes. One of us has aged gracefully-" Vander let out a heavy grunt and Viktor yelped as he was shoved over, Vander turning away with what sounded like an amused scoff. Viktor laughed as well. He paused as Isha came up next to him, seeming worried. Before he could assure her that he was okay, she seemed to instantly become distracted by the floating arm still tucked against his back. Viktor raised a brow before wiggling the fingers at Isha, making her jump. She hopped in place a little and he chuckled. "You may touch." Viktor extended the purple hand to her and Isha seemed hesitant before reaching out and grabbing it, her eyes wide. Her eyes landed on Viktor and he didn't even need her to tell him what she wanted. He rolled his eyes. "Do not hold on for too long." Viktor dug his staff into the ground and pushed himself up, Isha's eyes widening in delight as she was lifted off the ground by the floating appendage. Vi instantly moved over, seeming ready to catch her. Viktor didn't lift Isha too high, the girl letting go and landing back on her feet. Jinx leaned against Viktor's shoulder and he scoffed. "You are far too big for me to pick you up with it." He stated scoldingly, Jinx instantly puffing out her cheeks. Viktor's fingers curled around the staff and he finally let out a quiet sigh. "...Unfortunately, I know why you all came here then. I am afraid I cannot help you." Vi stared at him. "...We were told you could fix anything and there was just some 'cost'." She stated, her brow furrowing. Viktor stared around at them before raising a brow and Vi sighed as Jinx spoke up, saying she was just planning to threaten whoever it was until they did it, holding up her gun. Viktor made a small noise of vague amusement before sighing. "The 'cost' is not money. It is not something physical. It is a byproduct of my healing... if I can still even call it such a thing." Viktor stated. He glanced back at Vander. "We will take him to the greenhouse before I call everyone back out. They will become violent if they see he is still here." He started towards one of the side paths and glanced back, watching as Jinx encouraged Vander to follow. Isha scampered next to them and Viktor paused as Vi came up next to him. She stated that they'd walked a hell of a ways to get here. "...You must understand it is not because I do not wish to. But my healing would do him more harm than good..." Before Vi could speak, Viktor glanced over. "Did any of my commune members attack you unprovoked?" "I-I'm sorry, is that just something they do??" Vi said, staring at him in disbelief. Viktor's eyes moved to the side and Vi was silent for a moment. One moment turned to two. Three seconds of silence. Finally, Vi gave a quiet huff and pulled open the side of her jacket. Viktor startled as he saw the gash in her side, the bandages having barely soaked up the blood. "One of your guys suddenly lunged at me while we were talking. I didn't know what to do, we were just talking normally." Viktor furrowed his brow. He asked if she wanted it treated and she stated they should probably get where they were going first as she hid the gash under her jacket again. "So, uh, that's just normal around here?" "The byproduct of my healing is urges of physical violence. Biting, stabbing, slicing. Some of my followers have committed small acts of cannibalism as well." Viktor replied calmly as they walked. "The thoughts are intrusive and impulsive. The worse they get, the more violent they become. They will even start to hallucinate. They are constantly plagued by nightmares and someone is always screaming in the night hours." He heard nothing for a moment and risked a glance over at Vi, who looked absolutely horrified. "That's why I cannot help you." Vi asked why he had done that to people if he knew what it would cause. "I do warn them, Vi. I warn each and every one of them. Every single time, they assure me they would rather live this kind of life than the one they came from." Vi asked why he didn't just say no like he was now and Viktor's hand tightened on his staff. The ring behind his head and his eyes took on those cooler tones."...You can't, can you?" The words hit him like a punch to the gut and he squeezed his eyes shut. Vi raised a hand to her head. "Then what the fuck are we going to do?" She whispered, glancing back towards Vander. Viktor replied that they were always welcome to stay. "Stay? Princess, to be honest with you, I think we need to take you out of here." Vi said, staring at him in disbelief again. Viktor scrunched up his shoulders a little. Vi was clearly frustrated and she swore before waving her hand vaguely. "Why does... Jinx... hate Jayce so much? Can you distract me with that shit show?" Viktor couldn't help the weak laugh that left him. "Good gods, if you think what's happening here is terrible, I do not think you'd have the stomach for what Jayce has done to me." Viktor paused and held up his hand. "...He did this to me, in fact." He gestured vaguely to himself. Vi furrowed her brow, saying Jayce had seemed a little off, but relatively normal the few times she'd spoken to him. "Mm." Viktor made a small noise of acknowledgement. "I think you would have blown his head off with that hammer if you'd known what Jinx does." Vi glanced at him, asking if it was really that bad. "Worse, actually." Vi wrinkled her nose and asked how it could get worse. Viktor stopped in front of the doors to the greenhouse and held them open. He gestured for Jinx and Isha to lead Vander inside. "Please do not break the fountain or damage my plants. My gardener and I work hard to maintain them." He called after them, Vander having to awkwardly duck through the door. He shook himself off once he was inside and Viktor started to move as well before Vi said his name. Viktor paused, Vi gesturing for him to stay outside. "Jinx, we will be a moment!" He called out, Jinx heard replying something unintelligible. Viktor could only imagine which fruit she was already stuffing her face with. He shut the door to the greenhouse before turning to Vi with a furrowed brow."Listen, princess, you have people here that are eating each other. People that are just stabbing other people for the hell of it. I don't doubt someone will get set on fire sooner or later." Vi paused as Viktor replied that it wouldn't surprise him. She shook her head, placing her hands on her hips in disbelief before staring at him. "And you want to tell me that socially depraved lab rat has done worse. Then this." She gestured back towards the commune. Viktor nodded, his hands tight on his staff. "And yet, you won't leave." Viktor stared at her before his eyes drifted to the ground. "Why??" "Because he is going to come back." Viktor replied. He was sure of it now that he had confirmation Jayce was alive, as of... maybe a few weeks ago. He didn't quite remember. Vi crossed her arms, asking if he really wanted to be here when he did. "Two negatives don't make a positive, princess." Vi told him, furrowing her brow. "You want that weirdo to come to your fucked up, violent little neighborhood?" Viktor's hands were tight on his staff as he watched her before his ring and his eyes changed to the cool tones again. He finally stated that it didn't have to be here, but he did want Jayce to come back to him. "Why?? If he did all this evil stuff that Jinx thinks and you imply, why would you want him to come back?? I mean, I hope you plan on letting your so-called followers eat him or something!" Vi sounded frustrated as she stared at him before her eyes widened. "Oh, shit-" Viktor paused before reaching up. He was crying? He hadn't even realized. He apologized calmly, wiping his face. "No, I... I do not wish harm upon him. Not yet, at least. These are the... the marks that cause the byproduct of violent urges. Each of my followers only has one." Viktor exposed his sternum and Vi moved back. "You have no need to fear me. It appears my urges and impulses are different. They are only for him. He is the target of my violence." Vi stared at him before asking if Viktor was going to be the one to kill him. "I... suppose that depends. He is likely going to try and kill me as well." Vi could only stare at him again before saying he seemed awfully eager to fight this guy. "I do not want to fight him. I do not wish to hurt him. I just know that I will start to experience such urges once I see him again. I... hate hurting people, Vi. This existence... This life he forced upon me... is like agony." Viktor managed a smile and he felt more tears run down his face. He paused as Vi reached out and put a hand on his shoulder. "Then let's get out of here. We can grab Isha, Vander and Jinx. We can leave Piltover and Zaun. We can just go fuck off somewhere and live together. All of us." Vi said, crossing her arms. Viktor felt his chest warm and he smiled, saying it sounded nice. Vi watched him. "...But you won't go." Viktor shook his head. "Why? This guy does all this stuff to you and you're still just going to sit here and wait for him?" Viktor's hands tightened on his staff as he nodded. "Fuck, what did he do, scare you stupid?? From what I'm hearing, you both hate each other." She sounded frustrated and she paused as Viktor stated that it was worse than that. "What?? Viktor, what-" Viktor cut her off with teary eyes, a strained voice, and a smile."We fell in love."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had a feeling that Vi wasn't speechless very often, but here they were. After a moment, he finally moved to the door and opened it, gesturing for her to move inside. Vi stared at him for a moment, but it seemed she was all out of questions. She moved forward, Viktor asking her to sit on the side of the fountain so he could tend to her wound. "Wound??" Jinx turned to look back at them, her and Isha having both been absolutely ransacking one of the fruit trees. Jinx swallowed loudly. "Did that freak actually get you??" She asked Vi in surprise. Vi scoffed, saying it wasn't that bad. She moved over to the fountain before shucking her jacket off. Viktor furrowed his brow as he sat on the large, marble edge. Vi sat next to him and lifted her arm so he would be able to reach the gash. Viktor's fingers lit up and Vi paused, lowering her anrm immediately and asking if he was going to be using that weird magic of his. Viktor paused and glanced up at her."It will not affect you beyond surface level. I can heal smaller flesh wounds without having to pierce into the mind." He assured her quietly. Vi still seemed uncertain and Viktor pulled his hands away, the glow disappearing from his fingertips as he gestured to the water in the fountain, saying they could just clean it and wrap it back up instead. He understood her apprehension, but he also didn't want her walking around with an infected wound that big. Vi looked him over uncertainly. Viktor paused before quickly saying he wouldn't be putting a Rune on her or anything of the sort. He was just using the magic from his own. Vi spoke in a clarifying tone, wanting to confirm it wouldn't affect her. "Not beyond the wound. I wouldn't offer if I knew it did." Viktor said quietly. "I would not fool you like that. I do not... want more followers." Vi finally sighed and lifted her arm again, saying to get it over with. "I have to numb the nerves around this area. I am going to be pulling your muscle and skin back together." Vi wrinkled her nose, saying that sounded wonderful in a flat voice. Viktor paused, not realizing how used he was to just mentioning otherwise disturbing or uncomfortable things involving flesh and tissue. He was so used to just saying stuff like that to Jayce, or even his followers. "My apologies. I studied to be an anatomist, I am rather used to just... discussing injury or wounds." He attempted to cover up his embarrassment. He curled his hand up and pressed his knuckle just above the wound. Light webbing spread across Vi's skin, Viktor encompassing the wound with it before uncurling his fist. Surface level only. He pressed his glowing fingertips to the wound, a golden-blue glow erupting along Vi's side as Viktor used the magic of the Binding Rune to stitch her up. The last stitch fell into place and Viktor pulled his hand away, saying she would be fine now. The webbing would fade within the hour. Vi started to slip her jacket back on and Viktor turned away before nearly jumping out of his skin as he came face-to-face with Vander. "Ah. I was not hurting her. You do not need to worry." Viktor assured Vander. The other sniffed at his hands, growling for a moment before Viktor extinguished the glow of his fingertips. Vander seemed to calm down. Viktor looked Vander over before his eyes softened and he asked if he'd eaten yet. Vander paused and his nose seemed to twitch before he wrinkled it. He suddenly settled himself down, seeming content to just lay on the smooth pavement of the greenhouse. Viktor paused as he stared at him before managing a soft laugh. "I suppose you are not hungry." He jumped as a fruit was suddenly thrust in front of him, Jinx raising a brow and asking if he had eaten yet. "This fruit is supposed to be for all the members of my commune, Jinx." He stated with a raised brow, reaching up and taking it. Jinx rolled her eyes, saying they were only taking from one tree. Viktor chuckled, digging his fingers into the fruit and cleanly splitting it in half. Jinx could only stare before asking if that was how they opened it. "Yes, it is unusual to bite completely through the shell as you do, but it works, I suppose." Viktor held out half of the fruit to Vi, who blinked in surprise. "Please be sure to eat. I promise the food here is much safer than the people." Vi sighed and took the fruit from him. "You all may stay as long as you need. The only other person you'll see here is my gardener, Salo, and he is close to me. His thoughts are... quiet, compared to the others." Vi had furrowed her brow at Salo's name, seeming like she was trying to place it. Viktor glanced down at Vander. "The greenhouse is the only place in the commune big enough to shelter him that will not..." His thoughts drifted to the round confinements of his massive sphere structure. "...scare him." Viktor's fingers were absentmindedly tight on his staff and he had yet to touch his half of the fruit, having forgotten he was holding it at all. He blinked as Jinx plopped next to him, pulling her knees up to her chest and leaning against him. His purple arm snuck down before messing up her hair and Jinx instantly reached up, trying to smack it. She whined that it wasn't fair he had three now as she swatted at it again. Viktor managed another smile. He hesitated before speaking suddenly in that reverberating tone. "You may roam again." He cleared his throat before noticing everyone staring. "They would have stayed within their dwellings all day and people need to bathe and eat. I'm certain some of them are wounded as well." He paused as he felt the hand holding the fruit be pushed up and he glanced down. Isha pointed at the fruit, then at him with a prompting gaze. "Ah, my apologies, Miss Isha." She rolled her eyes at him. Viktor took a bite of the fruit, having become long used to the tang of its flavor. He ate it without a second thought, Vi seeming to be struggling through how flavorful it was. "I will fetch pillows and sheets for you all from the tailors. I must check on the commune. If it is not the three taps of my staff you hear against the door, do not open it." He pushed himself to his feet, moving forward. He paused as small footsteps were heard following. "Miss Isha, I do not think it would be wise for you to come with me." He said gently, turning bro look down at her. Isha huffed at him before knocking her fist loudly against her hard hat. It was an old mining hat. Viktor's eyes softened. "Very well. I see you are quite protected. However, you must stick close to me." Viktor opened the door to let Isha out first before pausing and looking back at Vi. He raised his staff promptingly. "Three taps or it's not you. Got it." Vi replied with a nod. Viktor shut the door to the greenhouse, something heard locking in place. It wasn't often he used the locks, but it also wasn't often they had guests. Isha followed along behind him as he began to walk. He stumbled as she suddenly moved close to his legs, nearly tripping him."Savior?" Salo's voice was hesitant as he approached him on the path. He slowed to a stop, furrowing his brow at the child Viktor was traveling with. "...We have guests? What of the beast?" Viktor replied that it was actually an old friend. "The beast?" Salo asked, seeming slightly dumbfounded by that, though his eyes remained staring forward. He kept his hands clasped in front of him, his nails clean, but the skin dirty. Viktor nodded, quietly looking him over before speaking again."Miss Isha, this is Salo. He is my gardener. He tends to the plants in the green house alongside me." Viktor said, looking down at Isha. Isha seemed slightly wary of Salo and, funnily enough, Salo seemed wary of her too. "Salo, would you come help me fetch pillows and blankets from our tailors?" Salo responded with a quiet 'yes, Savior' before awkwardly moving to Viktor's other side. Isha frowned and raised a brow as she tugged at Viktor's fabric. "Everyone here calls me 'Savior', Miss Isha. I truly do not know why. It certainly does not... feel as if I am doing any saving." Salo reminded him that all of the commune owed their new lives to him. "Indeed. And everyone seems... so... alive." Viktor trailed off, trying to keep the optimism in his voice and the sarcasm out. Isha furrowed her brow, her hand curling tighter into the fabric. "No urges lately, Salo?" Salo paused, glancing down at Isha before replying that he couldn't disclose anything about them, but yes, he'd been having them. And no, he hasn't attacked anyone, but people had certainly attacked him. "You are the only born Piltover citizen in my commune, Salo. Unfortunately, you walk with a target on your back." "And yet, I walk." Salo replied, glancing over at him. Viktor blinked and looked back at him in surprise before giving a small laugh and saying that he did. He felt Isha's grip loosen a little before it disappeared. "Oh, uh..." Salo stopped as Isha hopped around him. Viktor recognized this behavior of Jinx's immediately and he laughed a little more, raising the back of his hand to his mouth. Isha circled Salo curiously, reaching out to his misshapen belts and the trinkets that hung off of them. "Please do not touch." He held up a hand and softened his voice. "It is not only quite rude to touch someone without asking, but could prove very dangerous to you as well." That scolding tone crept back in and Isha wrinkled her nose at him. Viktor smiled. "Miss Isha, please be kind to Salo. He works very hard and he stays by my side often." Viktor said gently. Isha crossed her arms before gesturing between him and Salo with a raised brow. "Oh! Ah... no." Viktor glanced away. "No, we are not-" "The Savior waits for the return of another." Salo spoke up, making Viktor startle and look over at him. Salo was speaking to Isha gently. "The Savior waits patiently for this person to return, day and night. He quite misses him, I believe." Isha blinked before nodding, seeming curious about that now. She tipped her head at Salo, but he caught sight of Viktor's sunken shoulders and he shook his head. "That is all I am allowed to tell." He raised a finger to his lips and Isha huffed quietly. "Don't you dare to be cross with me, Miss Isha! That is the Savior's secret to tell, not mine." Salo replied in a scoffing tone. Isha rolled her eyes, crossing her arms and moving back over to Viktor. Viktor watched in quiet fascination as Salo actually seemed to roll his eyes in response before following after them. For once, he could relax knowing Salo just saw himself as an adult scolding a nosy child. The fact that it was a Zaunite child covered in dirt seemed to pass him right by now. As they walked along the main path through the tents, Viktor had to quickly stop the other children from approaching Isha, slamming his staff harshly against the ground and making them scatter. Isha instantly froze up, glancing at him with wide eyes. "Apologies, Miss Isha. The other children here do not play well with newcomers. Especially ones who are not followers." He explained quickly. Isha didn't seem to like that at all. Once they'd retrieved the blankets and pillows, they started their trek back to the greenhouse. For once, Viktor even made it all the way through the tents and back onto the side path without a problem. He was also almost to the door when his leg wobbled. He exhaled shakily before his staff clattered to the ground, along with the pillows he'd been holding. He dropped onto his knees and held his calf, swearing loudly as tears erupted in his eyes. "Savior!" Salo quickly knelt next to him. "Is it your leg again??" Viktor nodded and Salo seemed troubled. "This does not usually occur during the day." He reached out and helped Viktor into a better sitting position for his leg. Viktor flinched. It felt like something was being hastily fastened around it. A faint hydraulic hiss and Viktor's calf finally seemed to ease its stinging, trading it for an aching mess. Whatever was on him... felt like a... brace? The metal itself was thick and it seemed to be built solely for efficiency, seeming to completely and utterly disregard comfort or design. He furrowed his brow. Despite it still feeling as though acid was eating it away from the inside, he was able to stand again, Salo helping him to his feet at his beckon. Once he was standing again, the feeling disappeared completely. "Savior?" "The... The feeling has... dissipated. I apologize, that... You're right, that does not usually happen during the day." Viktor said, frowning. He knelt down, scooping up his discarded pillows. "Let us return to the greenhouse." He paused as Isha came over, her hand reaching up and holding his fabric again. Her other arm was filled with blankets. "Salo, there are other guests, including the 'beast'. You can contain your urges?" Viktor knew that Salo could, but he wanted to ask regardless. Salo nodded, giving a small 'yes, Savior' in response as they approached the greenhouse door. Viktor reached out with his staff. One. Two. Three taps against the door. Footsteps. The door opened and the moment Vi saw Salo, her eyes narrowed in instant recognition and it was the loudest Viktor had heard her as she spoke in outrage "...HIM??"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had to send Isha inside the greenhouse first. He placed the things he and Salo had brought just inside the door before telling a rather infuriated Vi that he would send Salo off. He shut the door before he could hear her scathing response. He sighed and turned to Salo before his eyes widened as those dirt-stained, pale hands wrapped around his throat. Viktor's eyes went wide and he reached up to his wrists, falling silent. Salo's gaze was unfocused as he asked why they were here. "They're guests." Viktor replied calmly. Salo's grip tightened and he stated that Jinx had crippled him. "I know. Salo, please." Viktor spoke again, his voice weakening. Salo stated in a shaking voice that she was the reason he'd had to come here. That there were these thoughts in his head. Viktor stared at him. "...So you do regret it." He said after a moment. His shoulders sank, his hands loosening around Salo's wrists. That seemed to get Salo's attention and those off-kilter eyes focused as he quickly yanked his hands back. Viktor raised a hand to his head, his other one crushingly tight on his staff. His glow and his eyes took on much darker tones and he squeezed his eyes shut. That guilt that erupted in his stomach was climbing all the way up his throat and tears pricked his eyes. He'd known it from the start. From the first reaction. "I-I apologize, Savior, I-I didn't mean to sound ungrateful. O-Of course I am thankful for perfect physical health and I-" Salo paused as Viktor held up the hand on his purple arm, it falling limp again. "...Savior, I am truly sorry." Salo's voice strained. "I did not mean to lay my hands upon you either." "You left not even a bruise." Viktor replied, not raising his head as he leaned it against his staff. His tears finally escaped down his face. "...Please know that I would free you all from these thoughts if I could." Salo replied that he knew, clearly shaken that he'd upset Viktor like this. "You are forgiven, Salo." The words did not seem to immediately relax him like it did with the others and Viktor managed a weak smile. "You may roam elsewhere. You do not have to tend to the greenhouse while they are here. This is where they will be staying. I will be staying with them as well. If I happen to sleep elsewhere than the greenhouse, you are welcome to join again, as you have." Salo was silent before giving a small nod and a soft 'yes, Savior'. Viktor gently beckoned for him to leave and Salo backed away with sunken shoulders before turning and making his way back down the path. Viktor wiped away his tears quickly before reaching out to the door. He didn't even make it to three before it opened, Vi's eyes wide. She stared at him and he froze up a little. "Hey, I, uh..." She started to speak awkwardly and Viktor's hands tightened on his staff as he stated that she'd been listening. "...Yeah." Viktor turned his head away and Vi backed up as he moved inside. The door shut and Viktor paused as he felt Vi lightly touch his shoulder. He turned to look back at her and she glanced to the side awkwardly. "Listen, I... I'm not... good at this kind of thing, but you really seem like you... could use one." She opened her arm to him and Viktor paused. He almost wanted to laugh, but he wasn't sure he could without tears. "Doors are gonna close real soon." He managed the weakest smile and moved over, wrapping an arm around her. Vi hugged him back, clearly not used to it. "Oh!" He heard Jinx exclaim and her footsteps came over before she was heard circling around them. She was clearly waiting her turn. Vi paused and pulled back before jumping as Jinx practically took Viktor off his feet, making him drop his staff. He stared at her before bursting out in quiet laughter. "You think I'm gonna pass up an opportunity to cheer up my ghost dad?? Well, my not-so-ghost-anymore dad." Jinx leaned against him, Viktor not wanting to let her know that she was genuinely crushing his ribs a little. "He really aged gracefully for an old man, huh?" Vi commented, kneeling down. She scoffed. "Looks just like you too." She cracked a grin at Jinx and Viktor rolled his eyes. "Duh. Clearly he does." Jinx said, sticking her tongue out at Vi. Viktor couldn't even really tell if she was joking, but he didn't mind it either way, smiling. "Clearly." He confirmed, giving a slight grin to Vi. She chuckled as she sat down in a crisscross position. Viktor gestured behind him to the pillows, smiling as he saw Isha already rooting through them. Jinx lit up and got up, instantly moving over. Viktor watched as they started to gather up the pillows. Viktor remained on the ground with Vi, watching them. After about an hour and both Jinx and Isha shooing Vander out of the way, they had almost perfected their creation. Viktor wasn't sure why he hadn't been expecting a blanket fort, but it brought a smile to his face. One could really tell that Jinx was an engineer with how sturdy it was. Her and Isha laid out the pillows and the fort was easily big enough to hold all of them. Vi soon switched out with Isha once Jinx insisted on her help, the girl huffing as she plopped next to Viktor, leaning against him. Viktor scanned her over quietly. His hands tightened on his staff. Even if she didn't speak, those curious eyes reminded him so painfully of that misshapen bird he'd once held in his hands. Isha glanced up, tipping her head at him as she noticed his staring. He jumped as she jabbed his side. "Apologies, Miss Isha. You... remind me of someone. They had... your attitude." He stated teasingly, a smile pulling at his lips. Isha tried to jab him again before jumping as his third hand pushed the helmet down on her head. She scoffed at him as she fixed it. Viktor tipped his head before reaching out to her hair. "This dye job seems quite familiar. Did she do this for you?" He gently tapped one of the brown and blue ends. Isha lit up before nodding. Viktor paused as she reached up to his hair, nudging the pink and purple tips. She seemed curious about it. "Ah, this appearance... It is such a tiresome story. It was certainly not easy to gain." He held up his arm, showing off the gold cracks that seemed to shimmer with the other colors. Isha stared at it with wide eyes. She glanced down and pointed at his purple legs with a raised brow. "Yes, that is my skin too. It is not paint." Isha seemed fascinated and Viktor chuckled. His heart was... aching with how content and comfortable he felt. He paused, glancing up as he heard Vi and Jinx arguing on how to set up one of the walls. There was a soft huff and Viktor's eyes moved over to Vander, who was watching them all tiredly. He seemed completely calm for the moment. Viktor closed his eyes, resting his head against his staff as his floating hand settled on top of Isha's helmet. She blinked and Viktor felt her reach up to play curiously with the fingers. She paused and Viktor realized that his floating arm was doing something new. He glanced over in confusion as he felt it expending energy. It suddenly stopped and Isha took off her hat. She stared at it quietly and reached out. The finger of his floating hand had drawn a small bird on her helmet in purple, metallic coloring. It looked like it had been etched right into the helmet. Isha traced her fingers over the small bird and gave a huge grin, looking back at him. Viktor wasn't sure how it had done that, or why, but Isha seemed overjoyed. He smiled back at her before leaning his head against his staff once more.He closed his eyes. He tried to focus. Viktor was reaching out. He was reaching as far as he could, pushing everything in his body to call out to Jayce. Any way to breach to where the other was. That... second heartbeat was creeping in. It was heavy. Jayce was exhausted. His muscles were sore. His leg was screaming, even with the brace. What had happened to it?? Viktor spoke Jayce's name in his mind. He could feel that vague recognition and desperation before that scratchy, gruff voice answered. "I'm coming, Viktor. H-Hold on." Viktor replied that he would wait as long as he needed to for him. He felt Jayce give a laugh that hurt his sore chest. "I'll b-be there soon. Wait for me." Viktor replied that he would. Jayce was struggling. Viktor didn't know what he was doing, but it seemed like he was forcing his body far past its limits. Viktor felt his own heart squeeze anxiously."I have to keep climbing."Climbing?? Out of the ravine?? Viktor instantly called out in his mind, starting to ask about his leg. Jayce assured him it was fine before he was heard grunting again. Viktor begged him to be careful, but he wasn't sure his words had reached him, feeling himself pulling back. Back across timelines. Realities. The Arcane. Viktor's eyes shot open and he realized he was staring at the now darkened roof of the greenhouse. He heard a soft scoff and glanced to the side. Vi was sitting up, her knees pulled up to her chest. "You're heavier than you look, princess." Viktor blinked. Had they moved him? That blanket fort seemed like it had been wrecked. Clearly a disagreement had happened, all the blankets and pillows just piled up on the floor. Jinx was snoring lightly against his chest, Isha holding her hat as she leaned against his side. "My apologies. I must have dozed off. I am quite... difficult to wake when such a thing happens." Viktor said softly. He chuckled softly as Vi stated that she could tell. "Jinx knocked you over like a stack of bottles. We had to make sure you weren't dead." Vi commented. Viktor carefully moved Jinx around like a ragdoll in order to sit up from the pile. He raised a hand to his head and asked how long he'd been out. "Good few hours, at least." She chuckled. "Did she get the blackout sleep from you?" Viktor gave a small chuckle of amusement, staring forward quietly. He glanced around, noting the way the ring behind his head cast moving shadows over the opaque walls. It seemed like that was what Vi had been staring at. Three seconds of silence. Three moments of peace. Stuttered knocking at the door made Viktor jump a little. Vi furrowed her brow. Viktor carefully pushed himself to his feet before moving over to the door. His hip was sore without his staff, but he could manage. When he opened it, Huck was standing there. "Savior, there is-" "Hey!" Vi kept her voice hushed, but she got to her feet. "You stabbed me, asshole!" She glared at him furiously. Viktor sighed, glancing at Huck and asking if he'd stabbed her. "I may have grazed her, Savior. I did not mean for it. I was trying to apologize for a different encounter, but the... the knife was in my hand before I could think." Huck said quietly. He ducked his head a little. "I'm sorry." He added to Vi, still seeming slightly shameful. She didn't seem to like his apology, but she wouldn't cause a scene. Viktor asked what Huck had come to tell him. "Salo has already gone to meet them without your permission, but we have a new visitor. She is asking for you."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor was starting to become extremely wary of cresting the hill that oversaw the entrance to the commune. He was already dreading what he might find when he passed over it, but all of his thoughts suddenly went blank as something drifted past him. A speck of light. More... Viktor raised his eyes, able to see more of them floating around. He held his staff close to himself. Weren't fireflies a Topside luxury? He'd never seen them so far down. One of the glowing dots moved past his head and his eyes followed it before he paused. Those little balls of light... were just balls of light. They weren't fireflies at all. Viktor was somewhat disappointed, but he also was fascinated as he reached out, catching one and watching as gold shimmered through his fingers before disappearing into the air. He could see them all drifting from over the top of the hill. Viktor started to climb faster before finally appearing over the top. He could see Salo speaking with someone and the orbs of light spiraled out from them before dispersing onto their own absentminded little paths. They were in a white cloak that had obviously been brought to them by Salo. However, it wasn't until Viktor saw the glint of gold pieces that it clicked. "Miss Merdarda??" He called out, holding his staff in front of him tightly. Mel lifted her head, her eyes puffy from crying. She had so much more gold pieces on her face than Viktor remembered and she looked so... scared. Viktor quickly hurried down the hill as Mel shakily moved forward to meet him. He reached out to her before jerking back as something burned him. His eyes were wide as his staff clattered to the ground. A shimmering gold shield had appeared around Mel, seeming to only be protecting her from Viktor. Mel seemed shocked by it, her eyes wide. "I didn't do that. I... I need it to stop..." She sounded frustrated as she held a hand up to her head. Viktor was fascinated. He reached out and his fingers pressed against the shield, pressing it in like a bubble. "...The Arcane stirs within you, Miss Merdarda. It may be polarizing us. Your connection to it is different than mine." Viktor said quietly. He jumped as Mel stated in a shaking voice that she didn't want this connection. The shield suddenly cracked and shattered apart, Viktor not having done anything. He reached out and Mel broke down crying as they finally managed to hug each other. Salo was watching them both in quiet disdain. Viktor's heart sank. "What happened to you, Miss Merdarda? You disappeared." Mel managed to weakly state that she and Elora had been kidnapped. Taken by enemies of her family. Viktor furrowed his brow. He... did not see Elora with her. And he had a feeling... he should not ask about her just yet. He pulled away and blinked as Mel spoke. "Is Jayce here too?" She asked shakily. Viktor's shoulders sank and Mel stared at him. "...You two are never far apart. What's happened to him?" Viktor replied that Jayce had been climbing somewhere last he'd spoken to him. That they were a world apart right now and Jayce was somewhere he couldn't reach. "I-I even believe he may be... brutally injured, maybe even crippled. I want to reach him. And I want to help him. But I can't." Viktor managed in a weakened voice. "I do not know where he is climbing to. I do not want him climbing because of his leg." All of the panic Viktor had been suppressing was starting to seep into his hushed words and he quickly stopped himself before he could get too overwhelmed. "I-I apologize, this isn't... This is not the time for me to... be like this." Mel reached out and Viktor stopped her before she could touch his face, choosing instead to hold her hand. He tucked his staff in the crook of his arm. "O-Our conflicting connections may trigger harm to one another. I think we must be careful." He looked her over. "Are you hungry? Thirsty??" Mel stared at him seeming unsure herself. Viktor's eyes softened on her. "Salo! Could you fetch water for Miss Merdarda and something small for her to eat?" "Yes, Savior." Salo quickly strode past them, disappearing over the hill. Mel stared after him with tired eyes, though she was clearly confused by the title. Viktor gave her hand a squeeze, getting her attention before gesturing to the orbs of light floating around them. "These do not usually occur down here. You brought them with you." He told her, tipping his head. He turned and started to lead her along, Mel furrowing her brow and replying that they were just fireflies. "Those are a privilege only Topsiders have. They do not naturally travel this far below." Viktor reached out, guiding one into his fingers. He held it up for her and she stared at it quietly. Mel looked exhausted, yet she reached out to it, gently placing her fingers upon it. It glowed brighter and she gave a weak sigh through her nose. Viktor was leading her through the tents and he brought her to the stairs of the spherical structure. He walked her inside and she stared around at it curiously. Viktor brought her to the center and settled down with her. "...Are you able to control this?" He asked quietly, tapping her hands as he set his staff down. Mel seemed quite distracted by his floating arm before startling and looking down at her hands. She carefully turned one over and needle-thin gold lines started to spiral upwards from her fingers. "Barely. Only in small bursts and it feels like it's draining me." She replied quietly. Her braids were a mess upon closer inspection and Viktor's shoulders sank a little. He reached up, settling the palms of his hands against the underside of hers. When he focused, Mel's eyes widened a little as those razor-thin lines started to become a shining rose-gold. Viktor was carefully funneling his energy, closing his eyes. He furrowed his brow. "V-Viktor, this is not straining you, is it?" Mel sounded worried as she watched him and when he opened his eyes, the gold on her body had started to change. That... rose-gold. He perked up a little, breaking his focus. He whispered for her to look, raising her hand. Mel stared at the new metal coating her fingers. "I... think I have strengthened your connection to the Arcane. These colors. They are what naturally occurs within it. Pink... blue... purple... and white. Gold and teal seem to accent it occasionally, which may be where your connection stems from." Viktor explained quietly. Mel seemed momentarily stunned and Viktor suddenly froze up. He felt frustration in his chest. Hopelessness. That second, racing heartbeat. Erratic. Frantic. He squeezed his eyes shut and Mel said his name in slight worry. Viktor could feel confusion and he raised a hand to his head. Jayce was... lost. Viktor furrowed his brow. Where was he?? Mel reached out, touching his shoulder before gasping. Viktor opened his eyes and startled. A golden scene had opened above them. Lines. It seemed to be a hill, filled with that scraggly flora that Viktor had seen during his brief time in that world. He could see Jayce's vague silhouette. Hunched. Shaking. Viktor furrowed his brow, reaching up and holding onto Mel's wrist. She asked where he was and Viktor shook his head. There. There, a path. "Jayce." His voice reverberated and they both watched the silhouette lift its head. "Three steps to the left. Fourteen steps forward. A path beyond that brush. It leads upwards." Viktor told him, watching him quietly. The silhouette didn't move for a moment. Finally... three steps to the left. He started forward, both Viktor and Mel clenching their jaws at his awkward walk. It looked painful. "...I have to look his leg when he returns... Good gods. He's built a brace, but only to hold it in place. He will be badly bruised and sore." Viktor's shoulders were sunken. Mel asked what happened in a soft voice. "We were... taken somewhere else. We were chased. Jayce fell into a ravine and I couldn't follow. I... am just relieved he is alive." The scene started to sputter and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, letting it dissipate as he guided Mel's hand from his shoulder. They were both slightly tired now. "Thank you... I struggle to reach him on my own. That is the easiest I have reached him." He hoped that Mel could tell through his exhausted voice how grateful he truly was. Mel nodded. She had pulled her hands back to hug herself. "...I do not know what you experienced, but you are safe here." Viktor assured her softly. Mel glanced out towards the entrance doubtfully before saying that he'd built quite a name for himself. Savior. Viktor instantly wrinkled his nose a little and glanced down at the ground. "What... did you hear that brought you here?" "A man with the ability to heal any physical ailment at a cost. A lavender god in the flesh. I knew it had to be you. Though I was wondering if your... ego had changed, for you to be referred to as such." Mel glanced up at him. "...But I see this is not true. Your... 'cost' is not monetary, is it? It is a warning." Viktor nodded, turning his head to the side and saying no one ever heeded it. Viktor paused, seeing more golden orbs floating around them. It seemed they'd followed them both inside. Admittedly, those little specks of light did relax him and he managed a small smile. He stated that, even if she feared it, it was... relieving to him that he wasn't the only one like this anymore. "...The process to get this way was painful, Viktor." Mel managed quietly. "As was mine, Miss Merdarda. I, at least, had the fortune of it being a drawn out and gradual process. I..." Viktor turned a sympathetic gaze to her. "I fear you cannot say the same." Mel shook her head. She looked like she was already fighting back tears and Viktor heard her swallow. There were soft footsteps and they glanced over, Salo having brought a tray. There was a glass bottle of water and... Viktor managed a smile. Salo had done exactly what he'd wished and the smell of maple soon reached them. He mouthed his thanks and Salo nodded as he came over, setting the tray down. Mel seemed to stare at the maple plait for a moment, like she couldn't believe it. Salo's hands tightened and Viktor watched quietly as Mel turned her head away, tears welling in her eyes. "...Once you eat and drink, I can take you to the springs to clean yourself up. I will wait outside them for you. We can provide clothes, if you wish. There are even a few commune members I can send for that could help with your hair type. I fear I would be no help." Viktor managed a small smile. Mel only started to cry harder, struggling to stifle it. Viktor hesitated before reaching out and offering an arm. Mel shakily took it before moving closer and resting her head against his shoulder. "She is welcome to my shelter if she wishes." Salo spoke quietly. "I can sleep elsewhere." Viktor glanced up before thanking him with a small smile. "...Of course, Savior." One look at him and Viktor could tell he was still shaken up from earlier. Viktor could tell without even having to prod at his mind. Viktor dismissed him quietly and Salo nodded. He turned and left the structure, Mel staring after him once she'd pulled back. She wiped her eyes carefully."...He's... become quite tolerable." She sounded genuinely surprised. Viktor felt an amused smile pull at his lips. Mel seemed to wait until Salo was gone before speaking again. "Viktor... I fear there is no time for me to clean up." Viktor stared at her before freezing up. "My mother is marching towards your commune as we speak. From what I understand, you have something that they want. And... my mother assumes you to be a threat. As you have only been described as... a god. She has decided she must eliminate this... savior from Zaun." Viktor stared at her before closing his eyes and letting out a sigh through his nose. Good gods."...And I will be having Jayce returning as well." He buried his head in his hand. Mel stared at him quietly before reaching out and saying that Jayce returning would be good. She watched him before furrowing her brow, asking after a moment if that was a good thing. Viktor scoffed, giving a weak smile. "Something over there aims to turn him against me before he can return. I expect it will be successful." Viktor chuckled softly. "My options are quite interesting, Miss Merdarda. Quite... limited." Mel asked what the options were for, her voice straining a little. The orbs around them all suddenly blinked out at once, Viktor feeling cold without them. Stressed. Dreadful. Wavering."...My death." Viktor answered softly. "Truly a decision, is it not? By an army or..." Viktor sighed and squeezed his eyes shut. When he spoke again, his voice had weakened "...Or by his hand."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It took an hour of Mel pleading Viktor not to think like that and making him repeat that he wouldn't before he could finally get her to eat, drink and take her to the springs. He had sent for clothes and she had told him she didn't need anyone to help with her hair as she'd moved into the entrance and disappeared. Viktor was leaned against the rocks outside of it, using his staff to leverage himself. No matter how many times Mel had made him repeat it, Viktor didn't believe it. Jayce would kill him. That mage knew what he was doing. Of course Jayce wouldn't want Viktor to end up like that. Of course he would do anything to prevent it. Viktor's heart was practically in his stomach as he thought about it. How would he do it...? Well... how would Viktor let him do it? Viktor shakily uncurled his fingers from his staff, raising one hand up to his throat with a furrowed brow. Would he feel Jayce's hands cutting off his airways? That pressure closing in and crawling so far down into his stomach that he would feel nauseous? Would he feel the blood vessels burst in his eyes?? Viktor's heart sped up and he felt tears instantly welling up. How would Jayce look at him while he killed him?? Would he be desperate?? Convinced he was doing the right thing? Would he keep a relatively neutral face or would tears be pouring from his eyes and landing on Viktor's bruising neck? Would he look at him at all? Would Jayce say his name? Viktor scoffed softly, the tears finally spilling down his own face. Of course he would. It was Jayce. Viktor stared at the ground quietly, his vision continuing to occasionally blur. He finally leaned his head against his staff. Could he not convince him?? Could he not assure him everything would be alright? Surely their only options weren't to die. They couldn't be. There had to be another way. Viktor was trembling. And an army, marching right to his door? Did they fear him that much? All Viktor did was... 'heal'. None of his commune members had attacked anyone beyond the walls. Why would he be a threat? Especially enough of one that Ambessa would have to march her whole army down here. Did she even know it was him? Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. His commune would be slaughtered like sheep. No matter how violent their urges, those were soldiers headed their way. Noxian soldiers. Trained for war. Trained for bloodshed. Viktor's eyes moved out to the tents. None of them would stand a chance. And... what was it he even had? What did they want? Were they coming for Mel? No, she would've said so. Viktor momentarily entertained the idea that they were coming to get Salo, but he dismissed it. From the sounds of it, there was no more Council. No more need for Council members. He paused as a woman appeared with clothes, consisting of a fitted white dress and some belts adorned with gold trinkets. He took the clothes from her before thanking her softly and sending her back off to sleep. Viktor sank back against the rock, curling his fingers into the fabric. Would Jayce at least let Viktor try to heal his leg? Could he piece Jayce back together before they both fell apart? "You'd look me in the eyes when you do it, would you not?" Viktor's voice was soft and trembling as he spoke to air. To nothing. To Jayce. "You would not let me slip away unseen, would you?" It was starting to hurt to even speak. "Would you say those words to me? Would you... tell me you..." Viktor trailed off and turned his head to the side. He didn't even know if he could say it. "Would you tell me you love me?" He whispered the statement so softly that he could barely feel the words in his throat. "After everything I have gone through... after everything you put me through... after everything you did to me... would you at least be able to tell me those words?" Viktor's hand was crushingly tight on his staff and he slowly sank down, his hand sliding down with him. "Would you watch the light leave my eyes for me?" Just so he could know he was not dying alone. Not like the first time, where his only company had been the moon and the stars. Where his only reprieve... had been the three seconds of peace before he hit the ground. Those three seconds. Those three seconds before his skull caved against the pavement. Those three seconds before he felt the pinprick snap of his neck. Those three seconds before everything had gone... dark. But only for three seconds. Viktor opened his eyes again, trembling as held the clothes with one arm. His heart was pounding and the buzzing was so loud in his chest that he swore it was giving him a headache. The ring behind his head seemed to be rapidly changing colors based on the light cast in front of him. He could feel those hands on his cheeks. Warm. Calloused. Ghostly. The hands that had inflicted so much hate and so much pain upon him. The hands that had bound him to this world and to him with a wire so razor-sharp, he would die before he could ever escape. The hands that had cradled him with agony and desperation. And yet... Those hands had inflicted care. Gentleness. Those hands had bound him with a desperate, bleeding affection that would drown them both. And yet... those hands had cradled him. It hurt. Knowing he loved the one thing that hurt him most. It hurt even more to know it loved him back. The ring behind his head took on those cool tones again, casting the already dim area in front of him into a sadder light. Viktor's shoulders sank. What could he do besides wait for him? Maybe... Maybe he could stop him if Jayce gave him the chance to talk. He... He didn't know what the urges would make him do once he saw him. He didn't know what they'd say. He didn't know if he would be able to resist them, and good gods, what if he killed Jayce first? The mere thought sent another wave of both panic and pain through his chest. Despite everything... Viktor was not a violent man. Viktor hated hurting people. Despite everything, it still scared him to death. He was no stranger to wounds and he wouldn't become sickly at the sight of blood, but to know that it was him who'd spilled it would... More tears ran down his face and Viktor took in a weak, shuddering breath. "Viktor?" Mel's voice was taut with concern. She remained out of sight, but Viktor held the clothes out in front of the opening, feeling her take them. "...Are you alright?" "I-I am fine, Miss Merdarda. Thank you." He kept his response quick and polite. However, he only burned with frustration at the tremor that couldn't seem to leave his words. There was a moment of silence before Mel was heard moving back into the springs. Her voice called out again. "Viktor, you... can tell me if something is ailing you." Her voice was hesitant as it drifted past the entrance. Viktor was shaking and he dropped his staff, his hands moving up so he could bury his face in them. He wasn't sure how long it was until Mel's hand was felt on his shoulder. He inhaled shakily again, unable to subtly wipe his tears as he lifted his head. He glanced over. Her hair was undone. She had placed it half-up, half-down with massive amounts of small curls spilling over her shoulders. Two thick braids held it together. She wore the dress, having cinched it at the waist with the gold-adorned belt. "Viktor-" "I might kill him, Miss Merdada." Despite how shaky his voice had been before, it seemed the tremor had ironically decided to leave that particular sentence alone. The fear, however... The cold fear and choking dread... It strangled his words like vines. He was so, so scared. "I do not want to kill him. I don't want to." He inhaled softly and he was vaguely aware of Mel rubbing his arm. "He has to kill me first. I need him to kill me first. I can't do it. I cannot be the one to kill, I can't." Viktor's voice strained under his fear and he hiccuped, his vision becoming blurry again. "Do you think he'll look at me when he does it? Do you believe he'll have the strength?" Mel whispered for him not to think like that. "I think I would be most at peace to die by his hand than that of an army. Because I would not give myself to an army so easily, Miss Merdarda." "Viktor." Mel's voice was weak, but sharp. "You do not have to die. Neither of you do. Surely there is another way." Viktor mumbled that this was a mess and Mel's voice softened. "I know, Viktor, I know. A mess can be cleaned." She paused as Viktor spoke again, asking what one could do when their love held them with bloody hands. Blood that was not theirs. Mel stared at him and it seemed like, right then, she knew exactly what that felt like. Maybe not in the same way as Viktor, but she knew what it was like. "...You fight it. You bite the hands that feed until they relent. Until they treat you proper. A wolf shows no mercy. It demands respect. If it cannot be given, then it will not be returned. Surely... you have teeth in you somewhere, Viktor." Viktor furrowed his brow. He really didn't know if he could. Metaphorically speaking, at least. He'd easily made Jayce's hands bleed several time by biting them when he put them too close. Would... Jayce respect him enough to give him a chance to speak or would he love him so much he'd kill him almost instantly? "He may not even give me a chance. It could be on sight, Miss Merdarda. You know him. You know how stubborn he is. How he can be so difficult that it is like talking to open air. Once he has a thought in his mind, he just sets off. He's reckless. Narrow-minded." Viktor said weakly, glancing over at her. Mel's shoulders sank, saying that she recalled this well. She started to say that she could try to help and Viktor quickly held up his hand. "Jayce spent... months... alone in a cavern. I do not know how he ate or drank, but I know he was alone. He was alone for months. Isolated. Injured. Frightened. Desperate." Viktor's voice was trembling. "I do not want anyone to be in his way when he comes here. I cannot have more people die because of me. His path must be direct. Without obstacles. I fear what he would do to anyone if they got in his way." Viktor glanced over. "Even you." Mel's shoulders tensed up quietly. She stared at him and, unlike before, there was no doubt in her eyes this time. "I fear how the isolation affected his urges. His thoughts. I cannot have any interference on his way to me. He'll likely eliminate it the moment he can." Viktor leaned back against the rock behind him. "...I do not wish anyone to be hurt, Mel. Not even him." He saw Mel's shoulders sink again out of the corner of his eye. It was the first time he'd addressed her by name and it was in the most strangled voice imaginable. He felt terrible, but when he opened his mouth to apologize, his entire body froze up. The ring behind his head flickered. Once, twice. Three times. Mel asked what was wrong and Viktor could only sit with his lips parted. It felt like something had been cut. Something attached to his heart had been disconnected. A hiss of frustration that was not his own. Even that serpentine body that slid under his skin didn't seem to know what had happened, but it clearly felt threatened. A connection had been severed and the faint beat of that second heart, always in the back of his mind, had gone silent. Tears ran down Viktor's face, along with purple blood from his nose. Mel was pleading for him to speak to her and he could only turn to look at her with pained eyes. Mel fell silent, seeming absolutely stunned by the look on his face. "I-I, uh..." Viktor wasn't even sure what to say. He inhaled shakily. "M-My..." He held out a hand and Mel took it. Her magic activated, twisting with Viktor's. However, it showed nothing. No scene. No picture. No Jayce. Viktor could only stare at the lines and orbs before watching them all go out as his tears continued to spill. Mel's hand was left shaking when he pulled his back and she asked in a soft voice what had happened. "M-My connection to him... It has just been cut." Even saying the last word felt like a wound would open across his tongue. It hurt. It hurt and it brought an aching to his chest that only seemed to irritate the serpent inside him even more. Of course, Viktor knew what had happened and the fear made him so sick that he had to keep himself from physically gagging in front of Mel. Jayce had met him. Jayce had met the mage.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
I won't fail. I swear it.
...What? The soft crunch of footsteps woke Viktor and he blinked open his eyes. He didn't remember falling asleep and he realized he was still leaned back against that rock outside the springs. He could feel someone leaning against him and tiredly glanced over at Mel, who looked like she'd fallen asleep here as well. Viktor's staff was propped between the rock and the ground awkwardly. Salo had come to check on them again during the night and Viktor had asked something rather difficult of him. He was anxious, even if Salo had seemed more than happy to oblige. If Jayce was going to be sent to him, then Viktor wanted to disable that thing that had opened in the water filtration area so nothing else could come through and no one else would get sucked in. He'd already guessed it was feeding off the energy from the capsules around the tank. He'd asked for Salo to dismantle them. And despite it being the middle of the night, Salo had promised to leave immediately. When Viktor had protested, Salo had replied that it would be his last chance to leave before they had those... extra visitors. Viktor had begged him to be careful. It looked to be daytime now and Viktor furrowed his brow at the shape in front of them. He quickly discovered it wasn't Salo. "Hey, princess. Rise and shine." Vi's voice was guarded and Viktor blinked in confusion. "You're, uh, just collecting the Councilors up, aren't you?" She gestured to Mel with a furrowed brow. Viktor paused before requesting that Vi be a little nicer to her. He spoke softly as he said he believed she'd just returned from being kidnapped and held hostage. Vi paused and he could see how badly she didn't want to sympathize with a Councilor, but her shoulders sank anyway. "...Sorry. Uh, we need your help. Vander left last night." Viktor paused. "Left?" He echoed with wide eyes. Vi nodded, saying they'd woken up to an empty greenhouse and the door had been slightly busted. Viktor was a little shocked. "...Where would he even go? Good gods..." Viktor wasn't sure what to do, reaching up and holding his staff tightly. "W-We need to find him. What if he hurts someone?? What if he gets hurt? I should-" Viktor couldn't describe the sensation that made his voice choke other than a bolt of lightening erupting from the inside of his body. His eyes and the ring behind his head lit up painfully bright. Mel jerked awake, all the rose gold bits on her lighting up as a shriek left her. Vi had jumped back from them, her eyes wide. Viktor held a hand up to his chest, glancing at Mel. "S-Something has... Something has crossed the Arcane. You felt it too??" Mel instantly nodded. Viktor knew her heart was probably pounding as fast as his. "What-" Vi started to speak in an absolutely baffled tone, but Viktor quickly stood up, holding up a hand as he leaned against his staff with wide eyes. He could feel... a tug. Someone was calling out to him. One of his connections. One of his... commune members. He paled a little, saying he had to go elsewhere for a moment. He apologized to Mel and Vi before quickly stumbling into the springs and settling down on his knees in front of one of the pools. He closed his eyes, following that call. He tipped his head back and it felt like he was being dragged from his very skin. Condensed into the smallest speck and dragged along a string. He suddenly collided with something and when he opened his eyes, he was staring at a pristine, white wall. However, when he lifted his hands, all he saw was dirt-stained skin and... clean fingernails. His eyes went wide. He paused as he heard that heavy breathing behind him and he didn't even want to turn around. He squeezed his eyes shut before speaking and his own voice erupted from Salo's throat so powerfully, that it echoed around the whole chamber. "Jayce?" He heard that breathing falter and Viktor heard that gruff voice speak again, sounding raspy and slightly hoarse. "Viktor??" Jayce sounded exhausted. He sounded exhausted and pained and angry all wrapped up into one long exhale of breath. Viktor started to turn around. "DON'T! MOVE!" The way the words were suddenly barked out behind him made Viktor flinch, squeezing his eyes shut. "Are you here?? I-Is this possession??" He was speaking in a demanding, feverish tone. Viktor could swear he even sounded insulted. Jealous? "What is he doing here??" His words were only becoming more punctuated, like Jayce was practically rabid as he spoke. "I thought you were going to appear before me or somewhere close when you returned. I sent him to dismantle this... anomaly before anyone else could get pulled in." Viktor explained quietly. "I did not think you would come out from here." He inhaled shakily. "Jayce, please let him bring you to me." Jayce responded instantly that he would rather die than follow Salo anywhere. "You will not come to me?" Viktor couldn't help the slight strain and confusion that crept into his hauntingly echoing voice. "So long apart and you will not even spare me the time to see you again?" He didn't hear anything at first before his whole body locked up as something swung so close to Salo's shoulder that Viktor felt a cut open up on his arm. The... hammer?? Viktor didn't know if he was allowed to move yet, otherwise he would've investigated because whatever he'd just seen out of the corner of his eye had certainly not been the hammer he knew. He paused as he felt the bandages start to become wet down Salo's arm, glancing down at the growing, dark red stain. His chest squeezed in panic. There was a loud footstep, but what caught Viktor's attention most of all was the creak that accompanied it. His eyes widened and he had to fight every urge to turn around. "Your leg. Jayce, what of your leg?? I must see it. Whatever has happened to it, I can fix it!" Viktor insisted, still staring at the wall in front of him. He trembled as he felt the hammer scrape its way up from the floor next to him. Another footstep. Another creak. Viktor could hear the other's heavy breathing. It was shaking. "J-Jayce..." "M-My hammer... crushed my fucking leg in when I fell. I couldn't walk. I could barely move. Everything under my skin felt like bones shards in soup and then the skin itself..." Jayce's voice strained through its feverish rasping. "The skin itself has that pattern. That horrifying pattern with vivid colors nothing like the pastel ones you sported. They're dark and muddled and ugly. It feels as if someone has placed the worst acid they could find upon my skin. I had to break my hammer apart. Piece by piece. Screw by screw until my fingers bled. And then I pieced it... back together again." Jayce whispered. Viktor was shaken. Jayce shouldn't have been walking. Not because it was bad for him, no. He really shouldn't have even been alive, much less walking. "Jayce. Please let Salo bring you back to me. And..." Viktor inhaled shakily. "Please let me turn around so I can see you. I have not seen you in months. I have only glimpsed your heartbeat and projected my voice. I have only seen you in shadows and silhouettes. I could feel your thoughts and your emotions through a thin, fragile connection. It's all I had of you." Viktor's voice was warbling as it echoed around the room, but there was a sadness to it. A slight desperation. He startled as something appeared from behind him and he was forced to raise his head. Was this... Jayce's hammer?? He choked slightly as one of the points dug into his neck. The whole thing looked like it had been warped out of shape. That webbed pattern looked to have both coated the surface and sunken beneath it. It vaguely resembled... some kind of twisted butterfly. It vaguely resembled something beautiful. "You won't be looking at me through his face." Jayce sounded slightly disgusted. "I felt your connection too. I saw things too. Felt things. I saw the fantasies he had of you when you pulled from his head." Viktor froze up a little, tightening Salo's hands in front of him before replying that they had been fantasies and nothing more. Nothing had ever come of them. It was silent for a few moments and Viktor felt instant pain in his chest. "Do you believe me to be some kind of liar right now?? Truly??" Viktor's tongue was sharp and he felt the point of the hammer dig a little tighter into his throat. At that moment, he didn't quite care. "Jayce. You thought I would do such a thing?? You thought that of me?? When you know me? When you've seen my insides. When you have seen all of me and you really thought that still??" Viktor's voice had become slightly furious. Jayce replied that he sounded upset and Viktor let out a scoff of disbelief. "I am fucking insulted." He finally hissed. He didn't hear anything before that point was removed from his neck. "Do not even come to me then. If you think that of me, do not even appear before me." "Your flesh puppet was singing your praises a few moments ago. You made a name for yourself, huh, Savior? You fancy yourself some kind of god now?" Jayce asked flatly. The mocking tone cut deep and Viktor clenched his jaw. "...You know me better than anyone, Jayce. Do you think I would EVER fancy myself a god?" His voice had weakened as it left Salo's throat. There was a second of silence. Three seconds. He heard Jayce sigh and reply in that raspy voice that he wouldn't. "...And I mean it, Jayce. If you have any doubt that I was waiting all these months for you to return to me, then leave. Leave and do not come back to me. I haven't felt this insulted since you forced me into that body. I cannot believe you." Viktor's voice was trembling. "For you to have such faithlessness in me due to your own insecurity is..." He inhaled shakily, feeling tears prick in Salo's eyes. Three more seconds of silence. "For you to doubt me." "...I didn't... I... I know you wouldn't. A lot has been on my mind. I had a lot of time to think to myself. I had a lot of time to think about you too." Jayce said quietly. He sounded slightly more defeated now. Slightly less wound up. "What I would give to see you again. What I would do." Viktor paused and slightly turned his head back. "No. Not with his face, Viktor." Viktor nodded and turned his head forward again. "If I see that face with your voice, I will not fight them." It sounded like less of a warning and more of a promise. "I want to see you, Viktor. I do." Viktor furrowed his brow. Demand respect. Bite the hands that feed. "...Will you at least give me a chance, Jayce?" Viktor finally asked, though he knew he still had to be careful treading, for Salo's sake. Jayce paused and asked what for. "Before you kill me." He heard the other freeze up. Three seconds of silence. "I would like a chance to speak to you before you kill me." Jayce started to say that he wasn't going to and Viktor cut him off. "'I won't fail. I swear it.'" Viktor repeated the words, though his voice was now echoed by Jayce's. Just as he'd heard it before he'd opened his eyes. Jayce had fallen completely silent again. "First you insult me, then you lie to me. Good gods, Jayce. Fine." His voice hardened. "I'm no longer asking. You will be brought before me and I will have a chance to speak." "Viktor, I'm doing this for you. I saw-" Jayce startled as Viktor spoke again. "I am aware of what you saw, Jayce. And I am telling you again, for once in your lifetime, to listen to me. If that hammer is raised anywhere near me before I am finished speaking..." Viktor inhaled shakily and there was a tremendous tremor to his voice as he spoke again. "I will turn you to rot." There was silence and Viktor took a breath to calm himself. "You will follow Salo back to me. I will not have him injured." Viktor swallowed.A wolf shows no mercy."Anything you do to him, I will have done to you and this includes death. Am I understood, Jayce?" Viktor only heard silence meet his question and his gaze fixed on the wall in front of him. "Jayce." Three more seconds of silence. A shuffle. A creak. "Do you understand?" "...I understand." Jayce's voice was quiet. There was something dark beneath his words, but Viktor had to ignore it. He had to bare his teeth. He had to. He was stronger. He was stronger and he knew it. Despite this, his hands shook so badly. Mel was right. He had to stop showing his belly and he had to start showing his teeth. Viktor gave a nod. "I will see you soon, Jayce. I beg of you to control yourself. I know you have been through an agonizing experience. I know you are damaged and shaken and I know I can help you. You have to give me a chance." Viktor's voice strained. He hated this silence that seemed to continuously follow his words and he hate the cut of Jayce's quieted voice when he spoke again. "I'll see you soon, Viktor." Jayce had that tone. Viktor knew it well. The conversation was over. He closed his eyes and begged for Salo to remain careful. To not speak too much. To not look at him too much. To please stay alive. Salo seemed to affirm that he would do his best to make it back. Viktor slid himself backwards and he was suddenly reeled back to himself with so much force that his back hit the rock behind him and knocked the breath out of him as he opened his eyes again. He gasped for air for a moment, holding a hand to his chest. Tears were already streaming down his face again. Jayce was en route. He let out a shaky breath as he pushed himself to his feet. Now he just... Now he just had to find Vander... before Vander found anyone else.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
No matter what he did or said, it didn't seem like Viktor was going to be able to shake off Vi. She insisted on coming with him to search for Vander and Viktor would dare say her stubborn streak could even compete with Jayce's. And that was truly something. Mel was to stay within Salo's shelter, away from Jinx and Isha, who were to stay in the greenhouse. Viktor had furrowed his brow as he stepped outside the entrance to his commune, scanning over the massive main tunnel, surrounded by several smaller ones. He didn't hear those coordinated footsteps yet. He didn't hear an army. He did, however, hear Vi grunting as she heaved aside a small boulder, revealing an empty space behind it. Well, that blue glow suggested that it may not have been as empty as he first thought. Viktor's eyes widened as Vi pulled out two massive gauntlets, reminiscent of the mining gloves Zaun workers would use to remove difficult stones. She seemed to notice his staring and, for some reason, guilt flickered across her face. "Oh, uh... these are... Jayce made these. He called them Atlas Gauntlets. Said they were supposed to be used for mining, but I think I got a better purpose for them." She stuck her hands into them and Viktor heard them pressurize before she lifted them off the ground effortlessly. "Sorry, princess, I know you and him are kind of..." "He is on his way here as we speak." Viktor replied quietly. Vi instantly froze up, staring at him. Viktor's hands tightened on his staff. "I wanted to ask something of you while we were out of earshot of everyone, but I fear I may have to worry about you as well." He gave a weak sigh through his nose. Vi furrowed her brow before hesitantly moving over to him. She asked what he needed and Viktor paused. "Jayce... is in no state for any obstacles on his path to me. I fear he is no longer afraid of spilling blood. I am begging you to keep Jinx away. Tell Isha to help you, if you must, but Jinx cannot be allowed to try and interfere. And I know she will." Vi stared at him before asking if he was really sure that Jayce was coming to kill him. Viktor flinched at how blunt the words were and his eyes drifted to the ground. Vi paused, seeming to realize what she'd said. She opened her mouth, but Viktor held up a hand. "I am certain. And I am also certain he will get rid of anyone who tries to get in his way, regardless of his prior connection. He may even hurt Miss Merdarda and they are quite close. If Jinx dies by his hand, I have... no idea what I would become after I kill him too." Viktor admitted, glancing away. "You've seen it. This magic... It is influenced by me as much as I am influenced by it. If I were to become consumed in anguish and grief... in pain... I could end up hurting a lot more people than him and I do not want to hurt people, Vi." His voice shook a little and Vi quickly replied that she knew, her brow furrowed. She started to speak again, but Viktor squeezed his eyes shut again. "Do not make me worry about you trying it too, Vi." "Viktor, I'm the best damn pit fighter in Zaun and my sister is the best damn shot in Zaun. You really think we can't stop him??" Vi demanded. Her gauntlets hissed and they hit the ground as she moved forward. Viktor flinched before instantly taking a step back with wide eyes. Vi reached out and her bandaged hand gripped Viktor's shoulder. "What's that thing he's always talking about?? 'Contingencies'? Why wouldn't you let us have one?? Okay, sure, you don't want him dead or hurt, for some reason. But you do know that it doesn't have to be you, right?? I don't give a shit what you believe. Or what you think is right. My sister loves you. She just blasted her other father figure full of holes by accident and Vander is..." Vi gave a heavy sigh. "You know Vander isn't..." She turned her head away. "Basically, she only has you. And, yeah, I haven't seen this... side of Jayce. But it's clear you and Jinx have seen something from him." Vi pulled her hands back. "So, in conclusion, princess, the answer to your request is no. And if you want to stop us, you'll have to do something now." She took a step back and pat her bound chest. "You have magic. Use it. Right now. Make it a clean shot."Viktor's hands were tight on his staff. He didn't move and he knew better than anyone that he wouldn't. And based on Vi's eyes, she knew he wouldn't either. Her arms dropped back to her sides. "...Please let me have a chance to speak to him before anything drastic is done." Viktor finally spoke again. "I have forced him to give me that much. He will be brought to the sphere in the center. If he becomes out of line... if he chooses to kill me anyway, you may step in if that's what you truly wish." Vi chuckled, saying Viktor may have had a problem with hurting Jayce, but she definitely didn't. "You'll have to get him out of the sphere and back into the open-""And Jinx can blow his head off." Vi finished, Viktor's hands tightening on his staff again. He swallowed and nodded. "Easy. I can carry him out on my shoulder." Viktor paused and glanced up at her. "Can you really?" He asked, genuinely surprised. Vi grinned and nodded, saying she'd done it before when he was injured. "I'll throw him if I have to." She replied. Viktor paused before asking what they would do if he hurt her. If he managed to... "He won't. He's bringing that hammer, isn't he? He's slow enough when he swings for me to avoid it. And I've shot that hammer. It takes a moment for it to do its fancy buildup before it can fire. And he is absolute shit at hand-to-hand combat." Viktor stared at her. His hands loosened and the cool tones that had been occupying the ring had started to lighten. Vi chuckled. "See? Doesn't that feel better? You can share the weight of it, Viktor. You can ask for help. I don't know if someone told you that or not, but you don't have to be the one to kill him. You don't have to hurt him. Jinx and I? We'll do it gladly. Besides, he was kind of pretentious about these things." She gestured to the gloves. "He can barely lift them when he wears them." She blew a blackened piece of hair out of her face as she crossed her arms, leaning down with a grin that reminded Viktor so, so much of Felicia. "Tragic, right?" Viktor managed a quiet laugh, shaking his head. Vi scanned him over and she let out a quiet sigh through her nose. "Listen, princess. I don't mean to be, uh, morbid. I wouldn't ever do this to you and I would never put the idea into Jinx's head, but... say he does end up dying." Viktor instantly clenched his jaw, his shoulders slightly sinking. "If we do end up having to, uh... y'know... would you come with us then?" Viktor paused and glanced up at her. "You can go with us and we can all finally get the fuck out of here." Vi gave a quick exhale of exasperation as she rolled her eyes. "Look at us. This place isn't good for us anymore." Viktor hesitated, holding his staff against himself. What about his... commune? His followers? What about Mel? He scrunched up his shoulders. "I know Jinx and Isha would go... absolutely nuts if we got to leave with you." Vi's voice had softened. "We can work out the... leadership problems in your... special community. Set something up for them." She moved over again, reaching out a hand. "You don't have to be trapped anymore, old man." Viktor slightly scoffed at her, but his heart was racing and the buzzing was deafening. Leave?? Even if Jayce was gone, could he really just... "I do not wish to answer anything yet. I do not want to give false hope." Viktor replied quietly. Vi furrowed her brow, saying she would understand. "Not for you." Vi paused before looking off to the side and pulling her hand back. "Let us find Vander first. The longer he is gone from the commune, the more dangerous it is for everyone. Including him." Viktor hesitantly moved forward, peering down one of the side tunnels. "...I do not recommend we separate from one another." He said, turning back to Vi with a troubled look. "Princess, I think I should at least be ahead of you. I don't know if you forgot about your..." Vi gestured vaguely behind her head in a circle, along with another gesture over her shoulder. "Your situation. But you glow pretty damn bright and I'm not sure if you can control that." Viktor paused before nodding. His floating arm did lower down to grip his shoulder, the arm pressing against his back. But, as Vi suspected, he certainly wasn't able to dull the glow of the ring behind his head. He gave a small sigh of frustration. Vi rolled her eyes, picking up her gauntlets again. "I'll call back for you." She promised. Viktor nodded, staying back as Vi moved forward. He inched to the side, hoping to get some kind of glimpse around the corner. The tunnel did quickly open up into another cavern around the corner. Vi disappeared around it and Viktor was quiet. Three seconds of silence. Something was slithering under his skin. He felt the scales. Viktor inhaled shakily. Why wouldn't the Binding Rune return to Jayce?? He was back, wasn't he?? Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and he was suddenly yanked out of his daze by a skidding noise. It stopped as there was the clattering of rocks and Vi suddenly yelled out, the crack and warbling hum of her gauntlets heard. Viktor immediately started forward. He could hear struggling and when he turned the corner, Vi had been knocked into the wall by a tall, lithe figure. Viktor felt his floating arm twitch and he moved forward. The arm suddenly stretched out, grabbing the figure and throwing them to the side. Vi hissed and dropped one of her gauntlets, holding her torso. "Your wound..." Viktor knew he'd healed it, but that didn't mean it wouldn't hurt. His floating arm returned to its normal length and he paused, turning to the figure. He stopped. He recognized that face from a while back. And, based on her reaction, Caitlyn seemed to remember him too, though her confused scan of him seemed to indicate she was trying to make sure she was right. "I... I know you." She pointed at him, her brow furrowed as she got up. She still seemed guarded. Vi spoke up, adding that she was here too. "Shush." Caitlyn spoke firmly and turned her gaze back to Viktor. "Is it you?? Are you the 'savior' everyone speaks of? The one we're looking for?" "...We?" Viktor echoed after a moment. He stared at her. "Are you... with the army that intends to bring harm to me and my commune? My people?" His voice slightly strained. Caitlyn paused before saying that he was the last remaining threat. "Threat? My people do not leave the commune. We do not bother anyone but each other." Viktor's voice shook and he took a step forward, Caitlyn putting up her hands in a defensive position. "...You're a mage. A powerful one, from the looks of it. Revered as a god. Such a mage that does not work with us is a threat." Caitlyn replied firmly. Viktor was taken back by the cold words and gaze. Was this truly the same person that had offered to walk him home through Zaun that night? And besides, though he had seen what he could become, he still wasn't sure 'mage' was a good word. "Fuck, cupcake, look at him." Vi sounded slightly strained as she spoke from behind Viktor. Caitlyn visibly hesitated as she stared at Vi. "This dainty thing?" Viktor immediately stated that he was not dainty and Vi rolled her eyes. "This is a good man. He's helping me. He knew that you all were coming for him and he left his community anyway to help me." Caitlyn asked what they were even doing. "I'm just trying to find my father." "And I am trying to find a friend." Viktor added, his voice weakened. Caitlyn furrowed her brow. Her gaze drifted over his shoulder again to Vi. There was something in her gaze. Slightly saddened and worried. "You... look terrible. Your hair is blackened. You look as if you were doused in oil." Caitlyn stated, her voice slightly confused. Vi scoffed and turned her head away. "Don't sugarcoat it, cupcake." Vi muttered. Caitlyn hesitated and Viktor could see something in her eyes. A conflict. A weakness. He moved back and turned back to Vi, asking to see her side. Vi swore as she dropped the other gauntlet. She shrugged the leather jacket off her shoulder and lifted her arm. Viktor's hand curled up a little. The wound wasn't opened, but there was such a darkened bruise there that it looked like mud. Vi glanced over at him. "...That's not a good face." "Because it is not a good sight." Viktor replied. He paused as he heard footsteps. His floating arm raised again and Caitlyn stopped. She narrowed her eyes before asking who Vi's father was. "A man named Vander. He has been... modified into something else but-" Viktor paused as Caitlyn spoke again, seeming to have paled with sunken shoulders."Warwick." She stated. Viktor stared at her for a moment and she turned her head to the side. "...You mean Warwick."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had never been so anxious in his life. He'd been sent back to the commune, Vi asking that he send Jinx out to her. Caitlyn had been silent the whole time when she watched them interact and Viktor was still absolutely shocked that she hadn't taken them straight to Ambessa. He was still shocked that it seemed like she was going to help and he wondered just what kind of devilish magic Vi had used to convince her so easily. Viktor was sitting inside the sphere with Isha, letting her scratch pictures into the walls with rocks. It had been at least a few hours now. He had stopped to check on Mel in the shelter, but she had been resting. Viktor hugged himself quietly. He was sitting crisscross, his staff laid neatly on the ground in front of him. His eyes were resting on the bird that was carved into Isha's hat. It looked like she was trying her best to draw a bird on the wall too, scratching at it with the sharp end of a rock. "I apologize that I could not find you proper drawing materials, Miss Isha." Viktor said, making Isha glance back at him. She waved her hand dismissively, setting down the rock and opening up the small pack she wore on her belt. She started to dig through it before something fell out, bouncing along the ground before rolling to a stop. The moment he processed what it was, Viktor had nearly fallen with how fast he'd gotten to his feet, moving so far backwards that he knocked the breath from himself as he hit the opposite wall. Isha stared at him with wide eyes. The moment he'd see the Hex Gemstone, that slithering under his skin had erupted so powerfully that Viktor would've heaved if he'd stayed near it. Viktor took in a few shaking breaths. "...Jinx made that?" He wanted to make sure and Isha nodded, frowning as she moved over and picked it up. "You have more?" Isha paused before tilting her bag towards him. Viktor flinched away as he took note of the other gemstones inside. His heart was racing again. Isha put the gemstone with the others. She shut the bag and hesitantly turned the strap on her body so the bag was out of sight. "I-I apologize. I just..." Viktor wasn't even sure what he could say. So Jinx truly had cracked Hextech beyond that explosion. Viktor was still trembling. He finally allowed his legs to weaken and he slid down the wall, sinking onto his knees. He exhaled shakily, burying his face in his hands. He heard soft footsteps approach him before Isha dropped in front of him, frowning. Viktor managed a small smile. "I'll be alright. I just need a few moments." Good gods, he could feel it slithering. Why wouldn't it go back to Jayce?? Why wouldn't it go back?? Was it because the mage had broken the bond?? Was the consciousness of the Binding Rune trapped with Viktor? The Binding Rune was clearly agitated by the crystals, feeling like it was choking Viktor's torso. He had to put in a lot of effort just to breathe normally. He jumped as he felt a small foot lightly kick his knee and he glanced up. He jumped as Isha placed her mining hat on his head. For a moment, he was too stunned to speak before reaching up. He gently gripped the rim of it before looking down at Isha in confusion. Isha seemed satisfied before holding out her hand. Viktor blinked before stretching out his own. Isha pointed at the hat as she started to trace letters into his palm. Protect. You. Viktor paused. A weak smile finally tugged at his lips and he asked if she truly wanted to give him her armor like this. Isha huffed, starting to trace again. Just. For. Now. "Of course." Viktor agreed, giving a nod. Isha seemed satisfied with that answer before sitting back on her legs again. Viktor glanced back towards the entrance, his fingers curling into the pale fabric that draped his body. He was so nervous. He was so anxious, it wasn't even funny. He paused as Isha poked him, raising a brow. "...I am worried for Vi and Jinx. I know they are both smart and quite capable, but... that is an army. A general. Good gods..." Viktor's voice weakened as he held a hand up to his head. "If they are not able to subdue General Merdarda, the army will attack my commune. They will attack me. She believes me to be a threat." Isha's brows shot up and she pointed at him in disbelief. "Yes, me." Viktor wasn't sure whether to be amused or not as Isha scoffed a little. He sighed. "...I just wish for them to be okay. I wish for them to bring Vander back as well. Safely." Isha nodded, sitting crisscross. "I-I-" Viktor couldn't speak again, squeezing his eyes shut. The slithering. That malicious squeeze around his torso. Viktor had a feeling he'd been right. The Rune was stuck with him, only able to travel out to members of the commune. It wanted Jayce. Viktor felt Isha grab his hand uncertainly. Her hands squeezed his and he gave a gentle squeeze to hers in response. Viktor leaned back against the wall, his eyes tearing up as he kept them closed. He was still struggling to breathe and he gulped. "M-Miss Isha, perhaps it w-would be best for you to return to the greenhouse. There is..." Viktor instantly froze up before sitting up with wide eyes. "He is nearby. Miss Isha, you must return to the greenhouse. You must. He was not supposed to be here until tomorrow." Viktor was hushed in shock, quickly getting to his feet with Isha. His heart had exploded into pounding. "Oh gods. Fuck." He turned to look back towards the entrance, quickly moving and scooping up his staff. Good gods, so much for contingencies. Had Jayce just made a straight beeline here?? Was Salo still okay? He hadn't felt the connection severed. He had expected the army first, not Jayce. He felt Isha instantly cling to his side. "Fuck." He reached up, taking off her hat and placing it back on her head firmly. He stared at the entrance before taking a deep breath and moving forward. Isha made a small noise of protest as she followed, able to feel the way he was shaking. They emerged from the sphere and Viktor flinched as there was a violent warbling from the center of the tents. He could see a bright glow, but no blast followed. His heart was pounding. "Miss Isha. The greenhouse." He told her softly. Isha instantly frowned at him. "Now, please. Jinx will be very upset if you get hurt. As will I." Isha hesitated and her hands slowly uncurled from the fabric. "Please." Viktor finally couldn't help the fear and desperation that burst into his voice as he spoke again. That seemed to spur Isha and she turned, quickly moving away and running down the side path that led to the greenhouse. Viktor kept watch of her until she disappeared, quickly wiping his eyes. He held his staff against his chest and that third arm drifted up behind him. His hair still floated around his head, the ring pulsing behind it. He... could hear his footsteps. Creaking. Slow. Stumbling. Three seconds of silence. Three seconds before heavy breathing cut through. Neither of them spoke for a moment. "...You arrived much faster than I anticipated. Especially with an injured leg. I was not expecting you until tomorrow." Viktor spoke quietly. He didn't even know if he could look at him. He kept his head turned to the side. Jayce's gruff voice spoke after a moment."You seemed like you wanted to talk so badly. How could I keep you waiting?" Viktor could feel the other's eyes on him. His hands tightened on his staff and he shut his own eyes, giving a quiet sigh. He asked how his leg was. "Feels like shit. Just like the rest of me. It burns like acid and every step is agony. It feels alright otherwise." Jayce replied. Viktor stated that he could fix it for him. "Just like how you 'fixed' everyone here? All I see down there are glassy eyes. Salo, despite always running his mouth before, didn't say a damn word to me on the way here. Did you save these people or did you mentally neuter them?" Viktor paused and he inhaled shakily. "They asked this of me. I told them. I told them what would happen and they insisted it." Viktor stared at the ground before taking a risk and exposing his back to Jayce as he turned. "Please follow me." He moved back into the sphere and he soon heard those creaking footsteps follow. With how close they were now, Viktor could tell Jayce was holding something heavy just from how he walked. He stopped inside and gave a small sigh. The footsteps didn't stop and he froze up, turning. "Jay-" Rough fingers grabbed his chin and Viktor startled as he felt chapped lips against his. He felt... Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, hesitantly reaching up and brushing his hand over a bearded jawline. His heart was pounding. Jayce finally pulled back, his lips parted and Viktor could only stare at him.Jayce's hair had grown out and he sported a beard, along with scarred lips. He looked disheveled and aged. Viktor suddenly felt his face flush all the way down to his neck as he stared at him and he wasn't sure how purple he suddenly went, but it seemed to startle Jayce. He was holding that corrupted butterfly hammer, and his eyes had changed. They were no longer a golden brown, but just a straight, piercing gold. Viktor held a hand up to his mouth, even his ears burning. Jayce scanned him over before seeming to weaken and letting out a weak breath that vaguely resembled laughter. "Really?" He asked, sounding exasperated. "You're fucking with me." Viktor instantly turned his head away. He jumped as Jayce slammed the hammer into the ground, burying it there before moving forward. "I really came here, prepared to do what was necessary." Viktor quickly backed up, feeling himself hit the wall. "I rushed myself. I put my leg through absolute hell to get here so quickly." Jayce stopped in front of him, his eyes almost glowing as he crowded Viktor against the wall. Viktor's ring and his eyes had taken on embarrassingly warm tones. "I made a promise and, yet, when I get here, you look at me like this??" Viktor's face was completely flushed as Jayce grabbed his chin. "Fuck, all it took was a look?? You fight so fucking dirty, Viktor, you know that?? Me looking as if I was dragged through seven layers of hell is what gets you going, huh?" Viktor's eyes widened and he began to protest that wasn't it. Jayce's eyes were more piercing than ever. "I was ready to kill you when I came here. I swore I wouldn't fail." Viktor paused. He took a deep breath and raised his eyes up to Jayce's. "And has that changed now?" He questioned softly. He slowly lowered his arms and his staff was heard dropping to the floor. The sound made Jayce close his eyes, exhaling shakily. He leaned down, their lips meeting again. Jayce was physically restraining himself and Viktor could sense every bit of it as he closed his eyes, pressing back against him. The kiss turned open and desperate, Viktor gasping a little into it. Despite everything, Jayce was still just a man. He craved warmth and contact. Physical pleasure and connection. All the things he'd been without for several months. Viktor felt Jayce's tongue exploring his mouth and he tried to keep up with it. Viktor reached up and he drew his fingers along Jayce's jawline. Viktor pulled back and stared at him, panting shakily. Viktor... felt a second charge. He jumped as golden lines suddenly wrapped around Jayce, yanking him back and slamming him to the ground with enough force to visibly knock him out. The lines disappeared and Mel lowered her hands, her eyes wide. Viktor covered his mouth, trying to hide his flushed face. They both stared at each other for a moment. "...Viktor?" Mel spoke in a hesitant, prompting tone. "You said he wouldn't be here until tomorrow." Viktor replied that was what he had thought as well. That Jayce had pushed himself. He finally felt shame and guilt flood his face, burying it in his hands. He hadn't needed to be so afraid. Good gods, he'd forgotten more than anything that Jayce was so attached to him. He hadn't needed contingencies. He'd barely even needed an argument. He'd been right. All he needed was a chance to speak, and, honestly he hadn't even needed to speak either. "I... forgot how starved he must be." Viktor finally managed. "For anything. Food, touch, just the... gaze of another person. He... barely even tried to put up a fight. I... feel foolish for being so worried." Viktor admitted, his face still flushed purple. Mel replied that Jayce had always mostly just been talk. "He seemed so serious this time... He..." Viktor stared down at him. Genuinely, he didn't know what to do and he held a hand up to his head, squeezing his eyes shut. Mel was heard coming over to him and Viktor could already feel the tears in his eyes. They finally spilled over and he wasn't even sure why he was crying. Was it relief from how easy it had been?? Frustration at how mind-numbing stressed he'd been about it? Or maybe it finally struck him that he'd been suppressing just how worried sick he'd been about Jayce himself. He jumped as Mel pulled him into a hug and Viktor returned it. "Miss Merdarda, I think I am a fool." He managed weakly. "Am I so detached from my humanity that I hadn't even considered this of him?""No, no. He did what he does best. He put on a show." Mel assured him. She pulled back, glancing down at Jayce. "...Maybe he forgot he was coming to see you again." Mel sighed. "Goodness knows that was an oversight on his part. One of many." She raised a brow down at him. "One of his most beloved personality traits, that overconfidence of his." Viktor managed a weak smile, but his heart still felt cramped inside. "I think I need to sit down, Miss Merdarda." Viktor managed weakly. Mel turned back to look at him, but all he heard was her yelp of shock as he went completely limp in her hands and collapsed against the floor.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor felt like he was being crushed to death. He had Jinx, Vi and Isha all grabbing him in a hug. Jinx was sputtering out apologies and even Vi looked guilty as all hell. "N-None of us knew he would be here s-so soon. It's alright. I-I handled it." Viktor was doing his best to assure them. And he was right. He'd certainly... handled it somehow. Jayce was being watched over by Mel up in the sphere and Viktor had taken a chance to check on Salo. Despite being clearly shaken and quieter than usual, he hadn't sported any physical injuries. Viktor had sent him to rest, as Salo's hands had not stopped shaking. They were back in the greenhouse and Viktor finally managed to turn and look at Vander. The beast only stared back, those eyes scanning over them. Viktor hesitated before taking a step forward, the sisters all letting him go. Viktor's hands were tight on his staff as he approached Vander uncertainly. He stretched out a hand to him and Vander was felt sniffing it before butting it with his cheek. There was a soft sting and Vander wrinkled his nose, jerking back from it. Viktor apologized, assuming it to be static. Vander huffed at him. Viktor drew his hand back, a smile weakly framed on his face. He jumped as someone slung an arm over his shoulder, dragging him down. He glanced over at Vi, who gave him a smile, though she still looked wracked with guilt. "It is alright. Getting Vander back was far more important. And..." Viktor's eyes moved over to Caitlyn, who'd been sitting silently off to the side. "...Miss Caitlyn. Thank you for helping them." His voice was soft. Caitlyn's hands tightened in her lap as she scanned them over. None of them had mentioned that the 'he' they kept speaking of was Jayce. Vi had been especially adamant that Viktor not tell her that, especially since she'd just brought Caitlyn's rifle back to her. Viktor had been stunned when he saw it. Even if Jayce hadn't been able to make a mass amount of weapons, he'd clearly managed some. Caitlyn's rifle was Hextech, undoubtedly. Caitlyn finally replied that she was just doing what she felt was right. Vi yelped as she was suddenly yanked away and Viktor jumped as Jinx's arms grabbed him next. She buried herself against him and Vander leaned forward, nudging his head against the both of them. Viktor's chest was warm and the buzzing was soft. "That old Noxian is down for the count and I killed her right-hand..." Jinx said quietly. Viktor glanced over before startling as Isha hugged his legs. He felt so warm and before he could praise Jinx for her work, something caught in his throat. He tensed up and choked up a little. He carefully pulled back from them, moving backwards as he held his throat. Good gods. Good gods, he could feel it. Viktor teared up as he heard Vander suddenly start to growl deep in his throat. He was rubbing at his face. Viktor was vaguely aware of everyone saying his name and reaching out to him. Viktor's breathing had sped up. It stopped. For three seconds, he could not breathe.
The scales. The scales. The scales.
Viktor coughed and everyone moved back as blood suddenly erupted down his chin and Viktor covered his mouth. He could feel the crushing of his ribcage and the burning of his sternum. Vander was only becoming more and more agitated, snapping and heaving at Viktor. Glowing lines that thinly resembled magma were starting to appear on his face and Viktor understood. He stumbled backwards, pushing past Vi and moving to the door. He practically burst his way out of the greenhouse, vaguely able to hear a commotion towards the front gates of his commune. He stumbled out into the field, continuing to cough and retch. There was anger. Not his. There was hunger. Not his. There was an overwhelming urge to tear apart everything around him and it was not his. "Please." He spoke through the blood in his throat, his voice wheezing and begging. "Please, you cannot ruin this for me. Please, you have already taken everything. Please." Viktor could feel the tears start spilling down his face and that serpentine body felt like it was trying to tear straight from under his skin and it hurt so much. "Get out of me. Get out of me. Get out of me." Viktor whispered, squeezing his eyes shut. He dropped his staff, holding his hands up to his head. It sure felt like the Binding Rune was trying. More blood erupted from his mouth and nose. Around him, the grass and dirt was starting to rip open. That webbed pattern was starting to ripple through the ground, turning the grass a sickly pale yellow as it spread. Viktor continued to sob in a hushed voice. "DON'T MOVE!!" A powerful voice shocked him and he raised his head as he felt the ground shake from the footsteps. Soldiers. Soldiers in his commune. Why?? Why? Viktor inhaled shakily, his heart feeling like it was going to pop out of his chest. Had Ambessa recovered herself already?? Those scales wouldn't go away. That serpentine body. He could feel it under his skin and he tipped his head back, swearing he could feel it sliding up his throat. There were weapons trained on him from every direction and he could feel it in his throat. However, when it reached the top, the only thing that left Viktor's mouth was an absolutely terrifying, guttural scream. He heard someone yell and his scream didn't stop, carrying through the cavern as he felt something stab straight through his lower torso. He could barely even process it, the anger from the Binding Rune nearly blinding him. His throat hurt. He hadn't stopped screaming. Viktor was vaguely aware of the ground shaking and he flinched as something hulking and huge appeared over him. He barely managed to look up. Vander was... Viktor could only stare. The beast looked enraged. Completely and utterly feral. It looked like lava was pouring from his eyes and nose, the rest of his body having darkened. His eyes were aglow, no hint of the human or the pupils. Viktor had finally stopped screaming and he tried to move. He shrieked as he held his hand to his side. The thing that had pierced his side was a spear. It had him pinned to the ground, stuck on his knees. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, only able to hear screaming and roaring. Vander was so close to him that he would surely crush Viktor with one misstep. Something was in his throat. Viktor gagged and something started to erupt from his core. He was throwing up scales. Something long and serpentine was dragging itself from his body, the symbol of the Binding Rune flashing over and over and over. His floating arm was fading. His ring behind his head was fading. His hair was going limp. He was losing energy. What was even happening around him?? Viktor didn't know. The last of the Binding Rune left his throat and he felt deflated in the worst way. Like all of his bones had been dragged out of place. All connection to the Arcane, dragged out of him. Tears and blood continued to run down his face. Something knelt in front of him and Viktor couldn't even process what it was before needle-like fangs were digging into his throat. One seemed to pull something from him as the other deposited something else. Viktor's vision blurred. That silhouette in front of him. That was him. But then it wasn't. Then it was. It was him or it was a snake. That was a snake...? Viktor coughed shakily. Whatever it was, he watched as it suddenly flattened to the ground and whisked itself backwards, sliding between the fighting silhouettes around him and disappearing. Viktor could barely flinch as Vander's glowing leg crushed into the ground inches away from him. Viktor was going limp, sliding down the spear a little more. He barely managed to look up, catching a glimpse of blue hair before his eyes widened and he flinched as Vander threw Jinx away from them, sending her crashing to the ground. Viktor could tell the breath had been knocked out of her and likely, she had a broken rib. His vision was pulsing. He was... He was dying. He was... He was dying? Viktor shakily raised a hand to his chest. He... He lifted his head, trying to understand what was happening. It felt like... there was fire spreading through his body, leading from the bitemark in his neck. His vision kept fuzzing and drool was starting to pool out of his mouth as well, mixing with his blood. He was dying. Again. Except this time, it was slow and agonizing. This time, there was no moon and there were no stars to keep him company. There was no peaceful silence. It wouldn't even give him the decency of three seconds. No, this pain felt like it was going to drag out for hours. He was starting to foam around his lips, feeling something thicker than tears starting to run from his eyes. He felt like he was... dissolving. He flinched as Vander's claws dug into the ground inches away again. When he glanced up, all he saw were the chains hooked onto the former man. An attempt at restraint. Viktor could only ache for him. He turned his head to where Jinx had been thrown. He managed a small cough. Through the bodies, he could see something smaller moving through them. Something fast... something blue. Viktor could only stare. A mining hat hit the ground. He heard Jinx scream out and it was a horrible sound. He wanted to get up and go to her, but he couldn't. There was a bird carved into the mining hat. He saw her, Jinx's eyes wide with pain and terror. Panic and anguish. Vi was holding her back and Viktor couldn't quite process what the problem was until something bumped into his side. Viktor managed to look down as Isha loaded the last Hex Crystal into the gun she was holding. She was shaking, Vander heard roaring above them and it was deafening. Viktor paused before reaching an arm out, Isha burying herself against his side. She took his other hand and guided it to the gun, making it so both of their fingers were on the trigger. Viktor was losing his energy. His grip. His vision and his breath. He watched as Isha pretended to shoot at Jinx with her free hand, mouthing a small 'pow!' that made Viktor's dying heart warm. His eyes raised to Jinx, her still screaming at them. Viktor smiled for her before turning his gaze to Isha.Isha pressed back against him and he hugged her best he could with one arm before Isha helped him to raise the other. A countdown wasn't needed. No spoken communication. Both of them pulled the trigger at the same time. Viktor glanced down as time slowed. Isha was smiling and she had closed her eyes. Viktor, however, would not. His eyes moved back up, watching as the shell of the gun started to shatter into bright blue cracks. The energy started to spread out and the cracks followed. Viktor watched as they started to spread down his and Isha's fingers. With the last bit energy he had, he pulled her closer to his side. It wasn't much, but maybe that last, small comfort. That light was blinding, consuming his every sense.I'm sorry I ruined this for you. He told Isha.I'm sorry I ruined this for them. He told Vander. I'm sorry I ruined this for us. He told Vi. I'm sorry. I love you. He told Jinx.I'm sorry. He told Mel. Viktor closed his eyes, feeling the energy start to break into his chest, shattering him and Isha into pieces. I'm not sorry... But I love you. He told Jayce.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Back on that ledge.
Three steps forward.
A scratchy noise.
A... scratchy noise? Viktor furrowed his brow. He stared up at the moon and the stars, watching them violently flicker and distort. Something was wrong. Viktor could only stare and he squeezed his eyes shut as that scratchy, squealing noise momentarily consumed his senses. He shakily raised his hands to his ears, digging them into the sides of his head. That aching. That aching. It... The side of his head caved in and Viktor's remaining eye shot open. All the noises were gone. Everything was quiet, with the exception of his heavy breathing. There was no moon. There were no stars. There wasn't even a ledge. He was... Viktor stared around the dusty, empty apartment, his eyes soon falling to the boarded up wall, where there had once been a massive hole. For a moment, Viktor didn't know what to do. He shakily reached up and started to pull his head back into shape with soft crunching noises. He stretched out a hand and... materialized his cane. He leaned on it, slowly looking down at his Academy uniform. Viktor stared at the ground. That ruined carpet. He felt light and he turned, daylight seen faintly through the boards covering the windows. He felt light and he... felt empty. No flow of the Arcane through him. No physical body. Nothing. Just him. Nothing more. Viktor's hand tightened on his cane. He could feel the emotions struggling to return to him, but he wasn't sure how to let them. Viktor reached up, pressing a hand to his chest. There were no symbols in his skin. He felt at his throat. No bitemarks in his neck. He reached up, squeezing at his arm. No cracks. His knee still carried that same, uncomfortable pressure. It was not mended. Nothing was mended. He was... right back where he started. Tears started to roll down his face and he only realized once one of them hit the corner of his lip. It startled him a little and he furrowed his brow, reaching up and wiping his eyes. Had he always felt so...? Viktor had gotten so used to feeling temperature again that the sensation of nothing was near overwhelming. He kept his breathing quiet. Had he just been sent back? Was everyone still fighting? Had he just been returned to his dying place? Had their sacrifice meant anything at all? Their. Their. Viktor's eyes teared up more. He slowly started to move, though every movement was difficult. He had to think about every motion he made in order to even complete it. He was looking over the apartment. "Isha?" His voice was barely a whisper. If he'd been brought back, then surely... As he continued to look, his shoulders sank even more. Surely... The taps of his cane were becoming irregular as he moved. He was... Viktor inhaled shakily. He jumped. Something had moved. Something that wasn't him. He paused and glanced back towards the door. A soft flutter. Viktor made his way over, dropping his cane before kneeling down. That small shape, curled up and shaking. Viktor reached out and scooped the bird into his hands. It was like him. Transparent. Light. Not of the world. Viktor stroked his fingers over its brown feathers and rubbed his thumb over the ends of its blue-stained wings. It started to try and climb to its feet and then... it bit him. Viktor jumped and, all at once, those emotions came rushing back in. Tears exploded down his face and he broke out into a weak episode of painful laughter. His shoulders sank. "Fuck." He whispered, his voice weak and hoarse. "No... No, no, no." He hiccuped shakily. He paused as the bird bit his fingers again. "Miss Isha!" He spoke much more scoldingly than he meant to and the bird shrunk down. Viktor stared at it. At her. "You... You came back." He managed after a moment. Isha raised her wings, seeming to look herself over. She hopped around in his hands, seeming to be trying to look at herself. Something suddenly materialized on her small head and Viktor couldn't help the weak laugh that left him. He was holding a sparrow in a tiny mining hat. Isha stared up at him, tipping her head. Viktor managed to calm himself down enough to take note of her look. He didn't understand why she was staring until it clicked that she'd never seen him like this. "...This is how I used to look. When I was dead the first time. This is how Jinx first knew me." Viktor told her softly. "It is me." He pushed himself to his feet, Isha stumbling in his hands. Viktor turned to look back at the boarded up hole in the wall, his heart twisting in his chest. "We must leave this place. It would not be healthy to stay." Isha suddenly huddled into a ball in his hands as he fazed both of them through the floors, moving forward and emerging into the streets. Isha was left quivering. "It is alright. We are not bound by physical obstacles anymore." Viktor told her gently. "If I put you on my shoulder, could you hold on?" Isha seemed hesitant before standing in his hand. Viktor brought her up to shoulder, feeling her tiny claws digging tight into his vest. He sighed. "Welcome to Piltover, Isha." He told her softly. The streets were empty. They felt empty and even the houses felt bare. Viktor started to slowly move forward. He could see the Academy building. He could see the Council Hall. He... Viktor slowed to a stop on the main road. He hesitated before turning to look down one of the side streets. He vaguely recognized it, angling his body and moving forward. When he emerged from the street, that sign gave a small creak. Viktor stopped in front of the bakery. Isha remained quiet before jumping as Viktor moved through the door, stepping inside. The bakery was empty. The glass case was filled with pastries, but they seemed as if they'd been there for a little bit. The maple plaits were soaked and sticky. "...This was my favorite bakery when I was alive, Miss Isha." He felt Isha give a small flutter on his shoulder as he approached the case, staring into it. "...We are no longer able to eat." Isha instantly gave an unhappy huff on his shoulder. "I know." Viktor was struggling. He was struggling not to break down into tears again. He didn't know what to do. He didn't know where to go. "I would not even know where to begin to get back to the commune from here." He whispered softly, his voice trembling. "I do not know how long it has been or if they are still there. That army must still be here..." He reached out, placing his hand against the glass of the case. "They would not evacuate Piltover like this if they weren't." Viktor turned to look back at the rest of the bakery. Half-eaten donuts were on plates. Empty glasses. "I do not know where to go, Miss Isha. How... How are we to see everyone again?" His voice strained a little. Isha bat at his cheek with her wing and he glanced over. Isha tipped her head at him. She was watching him expectedly. "...Right. My apologies." Viktor had to compose himself. "P-Perhaps the Council Hall. They would've likely set up protection for the Hexgates against the Noxians. There would be people there." Isha hopped in place and Viktor was hit with such blinding nostalgia from the Hexcore that he had to lean on his cane and squeeze his eyes shut for a moment. Isha lightly bat him with her wing again and he shook his head, saying he was fine. Viktor straightened himself up, glancing around the bakery once more before turning and fazing through the wall. They emerged back onto the street and the taps of Viktor's cane were soft as he started towards the Council Hall. As he'd hoped, he saw Enforcers. A whole mass of them surrounding the doors to the building. He felt Isha press against his neck and he shook his head as he continued forward. He felt Isha relax as Viktor walked right through everyone, moving up the stairs and fazing through the door. Yes, there were people here. Viktor could feel it. He started up the stairs, roaming each hallway with Isha. He could hear discussions being held in the conference rooms. Arguments. Even some yelling and fighting. But he didn't recognize any of those voices. "We must find someone we know. Anyone. Once we do, perhaps they can tell us what's become of everyone else." Viktor's hands were tight on his cane. Isha gave a small flutter on his shoulder. "...Please let Jinx be alright. Please let our sacrifice mean something." Viktor murmured as he passed by one of the windows. They were high up now, but something moved. Viktor froze up. He stopped dead in his tracks.The feeling in the air had changed. It was choking. Heavy and rotten. Isha had completely shrunken into a ball and Viktor didn't dare move a muscle. The hallway had been thrown into darkness and something was staring in at them. An eye. It was feverishly bright, the pupil itself being the shape of the Binding Rune. When it narrowed, the Rune shrank into a pinprick. Viktor didn't move. It seemed to scan him over. The eye suddenly disappeared and a massive scaly body followed, dragging itself up the side of the Council Hall before disappearing from view again. Viktor's heart was pounding and he dropped to his knees, nearly dropping Isha as he dragged in shaking breaths. Isha was clinging to his vest with all her might and Viktor shakily reached up, guiding her back onto his shoulder. Her feathers were completely puffed out. Despite so obviously seeing him, the Binding Rune hadn't seemed interested. Not a flicker of concern for the person it had been trapped inside. No, it wasn't him it wanted. It wasn't him that it was looking for. Besides, it had never been him that it wanted. But did that mean he was here?? Was he in the building?? "M-Miss Isha, I apologize for the fright." He scooped her off of his shoulder, Isha not uncurling from her ball. "It is not looking for us, I promise. It will bring us no harm." His voice softened. "It's gone. It is gone now." He assured her. It took another few moments before Isha would uncurl. Even then, she refused to leave his hand, even when he held her back up to his shoulder. Viktor sighed. He materialized his cane again and pushed himself to his feet. He started to move forward again, keeping Isha cupped in his free hand. "I-I know who it wants. If it is searching here, then he must be here. And if he is here, surely at least one of the others is." No. No, he didn't recognize any of these voices. Any of these people. When they finally emerged onto the top floor, leading to the Council Room, Viktor felt defeated. He felt no familiarity. No recognizable voices. No... Footsteps? He paused and glanced up. Instantly, he perked up. Yes! "Miss Merdarda." He whispered. She was draped in a white cloak, heading towards the Council Room. She pulled open the door and disappeared inside, Viktor moving forward. "Mel!" He called out, but before he could see if she'd heard, the doors slammed shut. Viktor flinched backwards, holding Isha against him as Binding Runes started to violently etch themselves over the door, like someone was splicing them into the wood with a knife, right then and there. Once it stopped, Viktor was left shaking. The Runes were sizzling on the door. Viktor's heart was pounding. He knew what this meant. He felt Isha bite him again and he glanced down at her. She nodded her head towards the door, even if her feathers were still puffed. "...Yes, we could move through them. But we wouldn't be able to leave until someone physically breaks the Runes." Viktor murmured. He glanced down at her. "You must stay right here." Isha instantly began to flutter her wings violently in protest as Viktor set her down on the windowsill. "Both of us cannot be trapped in there. I know Miss Medarda. If she knows we are... back... she will help us." Viktor grunted as he knelt down to be eye level with Isha. "I may not be able to stay with Jinx once we find her, but you..." He gently set his fingers upon Isha's tiny hat. "I want you to stay with her." He paused as Isha tipped her head back. She was awkwardly tracing against his palm with her beak. Protect. Her. Viktor paused before warmth filled his chest and he nodded. "Yes. Protect her. Can you do that, Isha? Once I hand you over to her, you'll protect her?" Isha nodded eagerly, hopping around on the windowsill. Viktor had to catch her as she nearly fell off. He placed her back. "I have to find out where she is first. Mel could tell me. Please stay out here." Isha nodded. "Promise me." Isha huffed before nodding again and settling down into a little ball. "Alright. Thank you, Miss Isha. I will... be back soon." Viktor turned back to the doors, moving forward. He was already on the verge of sickness, feeling the heat from the Runes on his face. As he stepped through the door, it felt like he had slipped through a wall of fire. He inhaled shakily out on the other side, his hands tight on his cane. It smelled of rot. Three steps forward.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"I DON'T FUCKING CARE!!" Jayce's yell spattered through the hallways like blood, followed by the warbling explosion of his hammer. Viktor could see Mel slightly hidden out of sight of Jayce as he yanked his hammer from the destroyed section of the Council Table. He was breathing heavily. His eyes were wide and wild. He looked like he'd cleaned up a little, but it was all coming undone as he seemed to frantically argue with an unheard voice. "He's not. He's not and you know it. Where is he?? You always know!!" Jayce yelled out, his voice nearly a roar. He aimed his hammer up at the ceiling, Viktor following it to... Oh. Viktor's whole body felt like it was going pale. He wasn't sure what Mel was seeing or if she was seeing it at all, but that creature that coiled along the ceiling was dark and rotten. It smelled rotten. It tasted rotten. It was rotten. Viktor wondered if this had been what the Hexcore was tasting from Jayce. It vaguely resembled a snake, built from strips of flesh and bones and eyes. Everything that Jayce had been so disgusted by that he would vomit. It was made of every single one of those things, blood spilling down every time it coiled around again. It dissipated the moment it hit the floor, but if this was what Jayce was seeing... Good gods. Viktor couldn't see the head of the Rune, only seeing the Binding Runes' symbol lighting up over and over and over again, reflecting off its body to mimic those scales. "NO!!" Jayce's hammer activated and the blast was sent up into the ceiling, the debris raining down around them as Jayce gripped his head with a gloved hand. He leaned back against the remaining section of the table, that brace creaking loudly. He was breathing so heavily and Viktor could tell he was so angry that he couldn't breathe, while also trying not to be sick. The Binding Rune seemed to be talking to him and his eyes widened, Jayce looking horrified. "That's disgusting." He paused before slamming his fist back against the table. "THAT WAS DIFFERENT!!" Jayce buried his head in his hand again. "I didn't use the whole thing! I only needed a piece and I didn't even put it into the body!! I promised myself it would be completely synthetic!! I promised myself I wouldn't hurt anything in order to make it because I knew he would hate me! I didn't do what you're doing!! What I did was wrong, but what you're doing is twisted and downright fucking evil!" Jayce was almost foaming at the mouth with how angry he was, his voice growing scratchy. "I am not yours. I'm not yours. I'm not yours." He had broken down into feverish muttering and lifted his arm. Viktor's eyes widened. The bracelet was gone and it looked like the crystal itself had been fused straight into Jayce's skin. There was that horrifying webbing spreading out around it. It looked like it was burned right into him. Jayce reached out to it and Viktor opened his mouth, but Mel reacted faster. She bound Jayce's arms with her magic, forcing him to drop the hammer and keeping him from ripping the Rune out. Above him, that snake recoiled from the rose-gold magic with such an angered hiss that the smell of decay filled the room for a moment. There was a loud rattling, both Viktor and Jayce flinching as the snake ripped itself out of the building, seeming like it had fazed straight through the wall. The ceiling was empty and Jayce's breathing was so heavy that it sounded painful. Mel released his arms and Jayce panted shakily. Viktor moved back behind one of the pillars. Jayce's face was stained with tears and his hair had become a mess. He had kept his beard, but now sported a form-fitting shirt in... Zaun's dark green. Viktor stared at it quietly. It looked... good on him. Mel moved forward, pulling her hood back and speaking to Jayce softly. He seemed to calm down now that there was someone he knew there. He buried his face in his hand as Mel reached up, gently cupping his face. Jayce squeezed his eyes shut. Viktor wasn't sure how long Jayce had been arguing with the Binding Rune, but it certainly looked as if it had taken a toll on him. Not to mention, taken a toll on the Council Room. "No, no, Mel, you're not listening to me. You're not listening to me. It was a snake. The thing is a fucking snake and all it wants is to rip everything apart so it can put it back together." Jayce's voice was furious and hushed. "Don't look at me like that!" Mel said something else and Jayce stood himself, towering over her for a moment. "I don't give a shit about your mother's army. We are going to have a whole different problem if I can't find it!!" He snapped. Mel reached out to him again and Jayce stared at her. His eyes weakened and his shoulders sank. "Mel, you're not listening to me. Please." He let her hold his face again. "...Necromancy. An absolute nightmare of necromancy." Jayce seemed to respond to her question in a defeated tone. His eyes twitched past her to where Viktor was. He froze up, reaching out to his hammer. Viktor felt fear grip him, but it wasn't from Jayce. Something... was moving around... behind him. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and he just barely managed to sidestep the blast from Jayce's hammer as the creature behind him hit the wall with a medley of crunching and snapping sounds. Viktor... remembered it well. The whole timeline Jayce had been trapped in had been crawling with these things. This one was missing half of one arm, but it certainly didn't seem to need it. It stepped out from the hole in the wall almost daintily, soft winding heard from it as it moved. From every open joint on its body, blood was staining it. Viktor could hear something else moving around inside of it. Like another... body. Viktor felt sick.The back of the creature had been broken open, but it was slowly mending itself. Right before that porcelain white shell closed up, Viktor could see a rotting spine surrounded by those 'scales'. They weren't as large as the thing he'd just seen, but a part of it was certainly in there. Jayce had moved in front of Mel, his eyes wide. The creature tipped its head at them. "You have to stop. There will be no one left to mend. You can't do it on your own." Jayce practically growled at it. The creature started to take a step forward and Viktor paused. Maybe it was because he was on the spectral plane that he could see how fast it was actually moving. Jayce wouldn't be able to raise his hammer in time. Viktor raised his cane. One.Two.Three.Three taps.Three seconds for that head to crack in his direction. Three seconds for the body to angle at him. Three seconds for the blast from Jayce's hammer to shatter it away again. The creature hit the wall once more, though several bits and spatters of liquid from what was inside of it did explode up onto the wall. Viktor heard Jayce gag, stumbling backwards. Viktor finally moved out into the open, his eyes wide as he watched the creature twitch and start to scrape itself back together. "Viktor!" Mel's voice erupted from behind him and he jumped, turning to look at her. She moved over to him quickly, cupping his face best she could without fazing through it. "You... You're still here. How?? Good gods, they said that explosion took every part of you with it." Viktor managed a weak smile, saying it almost had. "You... You look so different now!" Viktor replied that he'd been so used to his own pastel coloring that he thought so too. He hesitated before moving away from her. Jayce's eyes were wide and he backed up against the Council table as Viktor approached him. Viktor was hesitant. He knew that hammer wouldn't 'kill' him, but considering he could feel the heat from each blast, he doubted it would be a pleasant experience to be at the receiving end. "Jayce." Viktor spoke his name quietly, scanning him over. Jayce had so many emotions flying through his eyes and he just looked so... terrified. "Jayce, it is me." Viktor tried to assure him. Jayce dropped his hammer and moved forward, making Viktor jump. "Jayce, you're going to go right throug-" Except he didn't. Viktor went absolutely silent in shock as he felt Jayce's arms around him. He dropped his cane so fast, it didn't even clatter, simply exploded into steam. Speaking of which, his entire body had started to mist. His face was hot, the mist seen curling in the corners of his eyes. Jayce could... touch him? Viktor didn't even know what to do for a moment before they both jumped as Mel shrieked. There was a crashing and they both looked up to see Mel's rose-gold shield, the creature climbing it to try and get around like some kind of demented cockroach. Its bloody fingers were digging into the shield and right before it could land on her, Jayce smashed it out of the air, snapping it clean in half against the Council table. Jayce instantly became sick as he turned away, Mel covering her face. The inside of the mechanical creature had a human spine with several entrails now stretched over the table, staining it a nasty-red brown. There was a winding noise and those scales started to try and reconnect the two halves. "JAYCE!!" Viktor yelled out for him and Jayce stumbled forward swinging the hammer over his head before swinging it down like an axe with so much force that something was heard snapping and he collapsed to the side as the two halves of the mechanical creature split completely, landing on opposite sides of the table.Viktor was by Jayce's side in an instant, Mel on the other. Jayce's leg brace had snapped from his unbalanced weight placement, but he seemed fine otherwise. Mel looked exhausted and Viktor quickly reached out to her, asking if she was alright. Mel held up a shaky hand, saying she would need a moment. "We'll give you more than that." Jayce replied, seeming to quickly wipe his mouth. Viktor glanced over in confusion before he was suddenly grabbed and Jayce's lips were against his. Viktor made a noise of shock, Jayce taking the opportunity to push his tongue inside. Viktor felt his cheeks instantly turn to mist again and he finally slid his arms up around Jayce's neck, pressing back against him. He would rather disappear into nothingness than tell Jayce how much he loved that beard on him. Jayce had him against the floor, one arm wrapped under Viktor's back and the other holding himself up off the floor. Jayce's chest was moving in tandem with his, their breathing synced just for a moment. Viktor finally pulled back, covering his mouth as his cheeks kept spreading out in mist. His eyes were wide. "Viktor... fuck..." Jayce buried his face against his neck. "I can hold you." Viktor glanced over at Mel with huge eyes. She had her mouth covered, seeming like she was trying to suppress a tired bout of laughter. Viktor slowly turned his gaze back down to Jayce. He slid his hand up into the back of Jayce's longer hair, pulling him against his chest in a hug. Jayce seemed to accept it gratefully, his hands so tight on Viktor's clothes that he was momentarily afraid that Jayce would try to tear them off right then and there. Jayce's grip finally loosened and, to Viktor's shock, Jayce seemed to pass out. "Jayce?" Viktor gently shook his shoulder, but the other didn't move. Mel asked what was wrong. "I-I think he's fainted." "Did he really??" Mel came over to them, kneeling down. She reached out, brushing Jayce's hair back from his face. "Jayce is bigger than either one of us, how will we get him out of here??" She sighed heavily. Viktor gave a weak laugh and said that Mel just needed to help him get the doors open. Mel raised a brow at him, gesturing and saying that Jayce, along with his hammer, outweighed the both of them. Viktor smiled"I think you forget that I am spectral again. I can get him out of here easily, not to mention it's one of his, uh..." Viktor rolled his eyes. "...favorite activities."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Mel had taken an instant liking to Isha, the sparrow no doubt reminding her of the Hexcore. Viktor had barely gotten Jayce back to a room to rest. He shut the door to the room, turning to Mel and Isha as they all stood in the hallway. He opened his mouth to speak before blinking as he heard things being knocked over inside the room. Mel raised a brow, seeming amused. "...I think we'll have to speak later, Viktor." Before Viktor could even protest, the door was thrown open and he was grabbed, being dragged inside by his shirt collar. The door slammed shut again and Viktor could only stare up at Jayce with wide eyes, the other's hands on either side of his head. Admittedly, Viktor could just faze through the wall back into the hallway, but... "Jayce, you need rest! You just passed out!" Viktor instantly exclaimed, his eyes wide. He jumped as Jayce took his chin, pressing their lips together before the kiss quickly became deep and greedy. "M-Mm!" Viktor shivered a little, trying to keep up with his tongue. Jayce already seemed bothered just from being possessed and being tired on top of that hadn't done anything to dull down the full-on strain that Viktor was seeing between his legs. "J-Jayce." "You have three seconds to sink back through the wall then." Jayce whispered, his golden eyes piercing into Viktor's as he kept their lips inches apart.Three seconds passed.Viktor felt a small twinge of frustration that Jayce had so easily called his bluff. He quickly moved forward, dragging Jayce down into another kiss. Jayce was desperate and he started to rip at the buttons of Viktor's vest. "Fuck... I'll get to have you... as you. No synthetics. No possession. Just you." Jayce's voice strained into something resembling a desperate whimper. It shook Viktor to his core as he stared up at him, nodding and saying he would. He whispered that they had to be careful since neither of them knew how this worked. "Let's experiment then." Jayce muttered, pushing Viktor's head back against the wall with the force of the kiss. Viktor inhaled shakily before his eyes widened. "Ah!! J-Jayce!! Y-Your leg!! Hah!" Viktor gave a heavy shiver as he felt Jayce's braced leg rubbing up against him. Jayce's kiss only seemed to become more greedy at the sound of him. He was rubbing the textured straps of the brace in a slow circle between Viktor's legs. Viktor's hands reached out, his fingers desperately curling into Jayce's shirt. Viktor's own legs were shaking and he reached up. Jayce had pulled back for a moment to breathe, but he paused as Viktor's hand slid over his cheek. "Th-They really say nothing? You don't hear them?" He asked softly. When he'd been possessing Jayce, he'd originally been terrified of what he would find in that head of his, considering the crystal Rune had been pushed into his skin. Yes, he'd found strings upon strings of violent thoughts, but every single one was in a Bind. Kept far away. And every time a new one formed, a new Bind would appear. There had been an uncomfortable pressure on Viktor's arm while he'd been navigating the body, but it had done..."Nothing." Jayce took his hand, pressing his lips desperately to his palm as he rubbed his thumb over his knuckles. "There's nothing. I-It's all so quiet. I... I need you to fill that silence for me, Viktor." Jayce kept his face buried in his palm for a moment and he squeezed his eyes shut. "Please." Viktor's face was almost entirely trailing off into mist and he was so flustered that he could even see mist trailing off of his hands. "I... I can't handle this silence, Viktor. It's too quiet." His voice became strained again and Viktor moved forward best he could against his leg. His other hand slid down and Jayce swore loudly, burying his head against Viktor's shoulder. Viktor had fazed his hand right through the fabric of Jayce's pants in order to touch him directly. His hand stroked over him carefully before starting to pump him. "HAH!!" He jumped a little as Jayce suddenly released, his body shuddering. For a moment, he was shocked, but when he started to pull his hand back, Jayce shook his head. "M-More, Viktor, please. Fuck..."He held the sides of Viktor's head, pulling him into another desperate kiss. It didn't escape Viktor's notice that Jayce was taking extra care to shakily cradle the left side of his head. Viktor tipped his head into his hand. He reached up, placing his hand on top of Jayce's and curling his fingers so he could hold it. As per Jayce's request, Viktor did start to stroke and pump his length again, feeling it quivering beneath his fingers. "M-Mm..." Jayce made a weak noise against his lips. Viktor inhaled shakily. He could feel a... buzzing near his cheek. A slight heat. He pulled back from the kiss, panting and glancing to the side at the glowing Rune embedded in Jayce's wrist. His shoulders sank and he reached up, gently brushing his fingers along Jayce's arm, just above the Rune. He asked softly if it hurt and Jayce pressed their foreheads together, whispering that it did. That it felt like acid was burning and eating away at his flesh. "I-It's spread since I first came back. I-I think it's going to consume my whole body." Jayce admitted softly. Viktor could see how the thought was shaking Jayce and he quickly aimed to distract him, roughening his touches. "Hah!" Viktor watched as Jayce clung to him. There was no more resistance to letting Viktor take the lead, Jayce seeming overwhelmed and overjoyed just to be touched by him again. Viktor pulled his head up and his shoulders sank. He could see Jayce actively trying to focus on the pleasure, but he still looked... frightened. His breathing was heavy, but it wasn't hot and the whimpers that left his throat didn't just seem like they were from arousal. Viktor paused before pulling his fingers back. Jayce paused and he finally opened his eyes, the gold irises filling with worry alongside their fogginess. He glanced up at Viktor. "Jayce." Viktor kept his voice soft. His fingers started to trace over Jayce's belt as the other hand lifted one of Jayce's from his shoulder. "Let's try something a little more... obscene? What do you notice?" He heard Jayce let out a shivering breath as Viktor took his fingers into his mouth. He felt Jayce shiver as his erection was finally freed. Jayce was watching him and his eyes were wide as he seemed to see it. "I-I can see my... fingers inside your throat." He whispered softly. Viktor pulled back, a shining trail connecting Jayce's fingers to his lips. Viktor finally lowered himself to his knees and it clicked for Jayce. "Oh gods, Viktor." Viktor nodded. He was so, so embarrassed, it wasn't even funny. His body hadn't stopped letting off mist the whole time. He drew his tongue up Jayce's length, lapping at the tip, which was already leaking again. "Hah..." Jayce held his gloved hand up to his mouth, swearing softly. Viktor asked if he was ready, his breath warm on Jayce's length. Jayce gave a small nod, though it was very clear that he was not. And Viktor was proved right. With his spectral body, he could push his limits much further and he took Jayce's length all in one slide, choking a little as its silhouette was seen filling his throat. "FUCK!!" Jayce screamed out, having to lean on Viktor's shoulder as his legs shook. He stared down at Viktor with wide, teary eyes, panting. Viktor began to slowly bob his head, sliding his eyes shut as he swirled his tongue around it. Jayce kept making noises of both disbelief and arousal. He hadn't moved his hand from his mouth. Viktor finally pulled off his length with a wet noise, taking in a shaking breath. As he slowly stood, his body started to shift, his Academy uniform starting to fade bit by bit. For the first time in a while, Viktor felt genuinely shy about his body. This was how it had looked when he'd been alive. Not what Jayce had pieced together. This. Jayce stared at him quietly, his length slick and throbbing. Viktor met his gaze before saying he didn't need any prep like this, but maybe they should move to the bed. It didn't seem like that idea interested Jayce. He surged forward, slamming Viktor up against the wall and scooping his hands under him. "J-Jayce!!" Viktor was momentarily shocked before he was silenced by Jayce's lips. He could feel that throbbing length right beneath him. He opened his legs a little more and Jayce kept whispering soft 'Viktor's and 'please's into his ear. "J-Jayce... JAYCE!!" Viktor screamed out as Jayce pushed up into him, all the way to the hilt. Viktor swore he could feel him in his stomach. He couldn't help the noises that spilled from him. He squeezed his eyes shut as Jayce wasted no time in starting to thrust, making Viktor arch his back and scream out. They could both see the silhouette of Jayce's length moving in and out of Viktor, Jayce instantly placing his hand on Viktor's navel with wide eyes. It embarrassed Viktor more than he'd like to admit. He squeezed his eyes shut and it hit him that there was... something else in the air. He could smell... apples. He paused as Jayce's arm sparked next to his head. He turned to look at the Rune. Jayce had squeezed his eyes shut. In front of that Rune, something was forming out of strings of magic. A new shape. And Viktor recognized that call. That pull. The Arcane, reaching out to him. Not the Binding Rune. Not the snake. But the very essence of the Arcane was calling to him. Viktor inhaled shakily, staring at the manifestation with teary eyes. Finally, he reached out and gently held Jayce's wrist, staring at the faint silhouette of the apple that had formed.As he pulled it closer, his body began to change, feeling the strings of the Arcane spreading up through his fingers. His hair started to lengthen and lighten. He let out a shaky breath as he felt that ring slowly forming behind his head. Jayce was starting to speed up and he whispered Viktor's name desperately. Viktor responded with Jayce's, tears running down his face as that purple-tipped hair fell around his head. As he felt Jayce finally shudder, he squeezed his eyes shut. It took three seconds for Jayce to spill into him as Viktor's name rolled off his tongue. It took three seconds for Viktor to take a bite of that apple.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had his finger placed upon Isha's small head as he sat at the table. He could hear Caitlyn, Mel, and Jayce all speaking with one another, but he'd tuned out long ago. Perhaps it was the glow of the Arcane moving through his body once again, but Viktor had such a heavy, forlorn upset in his stomach that he could barely speak. Vi watched him from across the table. Of course Viktor and Isha had been thrilled to see her again. And ever since Viktor had reconnected with the Arcane, he'd become visible. Not exactly touchable, as Vi had found out upon going to hug him, but people were at least able to see him again. He'd even given a small little piece of that power to Isha. It had altered her form. While she remained a bird, she had also seemed to become... paint. She spread it everywhere she went and even the table itself was splattered blue and pink. The only thing on her that was safe to touch was her little hat. They were all in their own conference room, discussing a plan. First and foremost, Jayce wanted to shut down the Hexgates. They had yet to see the Binding Rune again, but Jayce had no doubt it would return once the blood began to spill. "It wants to mend things. The second the dead start piling, it will bring them back. It doesn't care which side they're from. Noxus, Piltover, Zaun. It will 'fix' them all the same." Jayce's voice was quiet as he spoke. Viktor paused as he saw a hand stretch out to his. He glanced up at Vi, whose eyes looked almost as pained as he felt. Viktor managed a small smile and placed his hand on hers. He felt destroyed. He felt completely destroyed and Isha hadn't stopped leaking blue paint everywhere. Vi and Caitlyn had told them Jinx had been imprisoned, but she'd escaped and disappeared. And truly, she had disappeared. When Viktor had tried to find her, he would only materialize at empty places. An abandoned workshop. His own untouched grave. And, lastly, he'd materialized at the burnt remains of The Last Drop. Nothing but ash and burnt furniture had remained. No signs of the booth he'd occupied when he'd been alive. No sign of Silco's office. He'd brought Isha with him everywhere he could. She kept trying to guide him somewhere, but upon releasing her to go find what she was looking for, Isha had returned completely blue and looking incredibly upset. It seemed she hadn't found Jinx either. Both Vi and Caitlyn had been wrapped up in guilt too, apologizing to both Viktor and Isha for not telling them where Jinx was. It made sense, unfortunately, considering they hadn't thought either of them had actually come back. Viktor continued to rub his finger over Isha's head as she sat in a puddle of blue. "How do you know Zaun will choose to fight with us?" Mel asked, making Viktor glance up. He met Jayce's gaze and Jayce sighed. "...That's part of why Viktor's here." He finally said, gesturing to him. "I have no doubt the hardest people to convince know him." Viktor replied it would be quite a stretch. He was still in his Academy form, though he'd found he could become that pastel one quite easily. Staying in this form made it harder for Vi to keep calling him 'Princess.' When Viktor had taken a bite of that apple, it was like he was finally accepting Jayce as he was. Devastating, yet freeing. "...I will lure the Binding Rune itself since I'm the one it wants." Viktor's hand instantly curled into Vi's unhappily, him squeezing his eyes shut. "Viktor, please. It isn't like you haven't wanted me dead before." "Because it was me that would have killed you." Viktor replied flatly, opening his eyes to shoot him a look. "You have no guarantee your plan will work." Jayce immediately snapped that it was because nothing like this had ever happened before, so he couldn't exactly do research. Caitlyn still frowned between them. Having to explain their relationship to her had been an absolute nightmare, even with Vi's attempts to help. They still weren't even sure who she was mad at, but she was definitely mad at someone. They still weren't even sure she understood, but she understood something. Maybe she was mad at both of them. Jayce rolled his eyes, saying that Viktor was going to accompany Vi. There was a soft splat as Isha fluttered her wings, getting Jayce's attention. "...Isha will also accompany you and Vi." Jayce added, seeming to satiate the small specter. Even if he'd never met Isha, it was glaringly obvious that this was someone Viktor cared for. It was also clear that this... was a child. Isha had been quite mad that Jayce had picked up on that almost immediately upon meeting her. Jayce sighed quietly, meeting Viktor's eyes again. "Viktor, I know you haven't exactly... fought before, but..." "...Unfortunately, I would be best equipped." Viktor finished for him, his voice quiet. "With my... connection to the Arcane." Jayce nodded. "Miss Merdarda." Viktor got Mel's attention. "Are you sure you will be able to face her alone? If the both of us are mages, surely we can-""I must do this myself, Viktor." Mel told him gently. "I'm more worried about the defensive Runes the Noxian soldiers have to absorb our magic and damages." Jayce scoffed softly and Viktor met his gaze again. "I would not concern yourself over that, Miss Merdarda. The moment that Binding Rune realizes that they have those, I do not doubt the carnage that will follow." Viktor replied. "That thing hates opposition. It hates being stopped. And it hates being kept from doing its purpose. I cannot think of a faster way to infuriate it than the army having those." Mel's hands tightened against the table. She looked a little sick before saying that the necromancy they would experience would likely overtake the entire battle within an hour. "Indeed. But Jayce... insists that he has the means to destroy it." Jayce nodded, starting to open his mouth. "...Because all of his ideas have always worked so well." "You really just can't let me have anything, can you?" Jayce asked flatly, shooting Viktor a look as a smile pulled at Vi's lips. "I do have the means to destroy it. It's my Rune." He held up his arm, showing off the crystal. Viktor clenched his jaw a little. Over the past day or so, that webbing had been spreading. It was almost all the way to Jayce's shoulders and it had reached the knuckles on his hand. "I'll try to do it as quickly as possible." Vi asked what he was even trying to do and Jayce sighed. "...If it wants every part of me, as it has said, it has to consume me." He tapped the crystal. "It has to eat itself and, in doing so, it ceases to exist." He explained quietly. Viktor still did not think it would work. Jayce had already run this by him and Mel, but the look on Vi and Caitlyn's faces were something else. Caitlyn asked in a shocked voice if he was going to die and Viktor saw Vi visibly bite back the snarky comment she so clearly wanted to make. "...Cait, I think you may be the only one at this table who hasn't wanted me dead at some point." Jayce stated flatly. Mel protested that this wasn't true and Jayce raised a brow. Mel clarified that she hadn't wanted him dead and Jayce rolled his eyes. Caitlyn glanced over at Vi with wide eyes and Vi only managed a nervous grin in response. "... And I don't know what will happen. A Rune manifesting itself to such a degree hasn't been... recorded before. Once it swallows me, I don't know what will happen." Jayce admitted."It is necessary to keep it from the Hexgates. This kind of thing cannot be allowed to spread." Mel said, her hands still curled into fists. "We have to show off the corpse to the Enforcers and elites remaining, along with the people of Zaun to convince them it is a battle worth fighting. The only thing that I am sure of, is that Mother and her soldiers do not know of the secondary threat. Perhaps once she... once she sees, we can..." Mel trailed off, her eyes squeezing shut as Caitlyn spoke, saying that Mel should have known better than anyone that Ambessa would not fight for them. Mel raised a hand to her head. Viktor remained quiet. He cupped his hand and Isha paused before hopping up into it. The blue paint started to spill through his fingers and he watched it quietly. He hoped that Jinx was getting out of here. He hoped that she'd gone somewhere far away. Vi's hand squeezed his other one and he glanced up. Viktor met her eyes and gave a weak sigh. He wondered if it had been too much to ask for him and Isha to see Jinx again. He could hear all of them start talking again, Vi pulling her hand back in order to hold Caitlyn's. The way she did so suggested something deeper to Viktor and his gaze softened in quiet understanding. Admittedly, he had been curious about how Vi had convinced Caitlyn to betray Ambessa so quickly, but it was strikingly clear to him now, at least. His eyes moved back down to Isha. Since they were spectral, they would likely not be harmed by any physical means. Isha paused and hopped up onto his arm, blue paint starting to stain the sleeve of his uniform. Viktor rolled his eyes with a quiet scoff. Isha didn't seem too bothered by that, settling down again. Viktor finally stood up, everyone pausing to look at him. "My apologies. I wish to step outside for a moment. It is dark and stuffy in this room." Viktor said, dipping his head. He turned away with Isha, materializing his cane.Three steps forward. They both fazed through the wall and out into the hallway. Viktor let out a shaky sigh of relief as he saw the lowering rays of the sun lazily dragging along the ground. He moved over and placed Isha down on the windowsill, watching as the blue paint started to spread from her and spill down the wall. Even though it seemed like a nightmare of a mess, the paint always faded after a minute or two. Viktor could already see it fading from his own hands. It didn't even take a minute before the door to the conference room was heard opening, Caitlyn heard exclaiming something from inside. "I'll only be a few minutes! Sorry!" Jayce shut the door before glancing up and moving over to Viktor. "Viktor-" "Isha is here. Keep it appropriate." Viktor stated quietly, glancing at him. Jayce paused, seeing Isha staring up at them from the windowsill. He sighed and turned to Viktor, holding out his gloved hands. Viktor stared at them quietly, his own hands tight atop his cane. He finally managed a weak, shaky sigh, hooking his cane on his arm before reaching up. He took Jayce's hands, giving them a small squeeze. It was like he'd triggered a trap, lips instantly felt against his as Jayce tugged him forward into a tight hug. He pulled back after a moment and buried his face against Viktor's shoulder. Viktor was left startled, his eyes wide before he glanced down at Jayce. "Aren't you supposed to be discussing battle plans right now?" He scolded softly. "Cait's already going to kick my ass about it." Jayce's voice was muffled. "Please just let me hold you for a moment." Viktor felt his cheeks slightly mist and he reached up, wrapping an arm around Jayce as well as he buried his cheek against his head. Viktor finally spoke after a moment, saying that he should've been the one to kill him. "Out of anyone, I would've wanted it to be you." Jayce replied almost immediately. Viktor's eyes softened. "You still have a chance if you continue to speak to me before the battle." Viktor told him softly. Jayce glanced up, scoffing. "Ha ha." He stated flatly. He gave a quiet sigh. "...You know why I don't want you near me during that battle, Viktor. I already told you. Once I'm face-to-face with it, all these thoughts... all these thoughts I'm keeping in Binds are just going to..." Jayce's hands curled into Viktor's clothes. "I don't want you near me when all those thoughts snap free." Viktor watched him quietly, his shoulders sunken. He asked how Jayce could trust that he would see his own plan through then. "As long as it's just me and the Rune, I can do it. That's why I have to be alone." Jayce told him softly. Viktor rolled his eyes. "...So it starts and it ends with your lack of self-control? Unbelievable." Viktor muttered. Jayce's grip tightened on him and Viktor paused before feeling Jayce press their lips together again. Viktor's eyes slid shut and he pressed back against his, his cheeks and ears becoming mist. Jayce pulled back and Viktor stared at him with a slightly pained expression. Jayce leaned forward, pressing their foreheads together once more before giving a weak smile. "...I guess it does."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor could feel Isha's paint spilling down his shoulder as they fazed into the Council Room. Thank the gods, it had been cleaned up since he'd last been in here, but he could already hear the crowd murmuring about an awful smell. Piltover elites and Enforcers were here, along with Mel, Caitlyn, and the last remaining member of the Council, who Viktor still didn't know. Jayce was to give a rallying speech, but Viktor knew that the Piltover side was not who needed the most convincing. He tipped his head slightly to see the Zaunites occupying part of the room. It was jarring to see so many in one of Piltover's most prestigious rooms. And there... Viktor felt a smile immediately spread across his face. "Sevika." He whispered softly. "-just here to bash his fucking face in when I see him." That voice was just as violent and familiar as he remembered. At her name, Isha suddenly started to bounce on his shoulder and he looked over in surprise. Isha seemed overjoyed and he asked softly if Isha knew her, the small bird instantly nodding. Sevika was talking to a larger man, who vaguely resembled some kind of nocturnal creature. He couldn't quite remember at the moment, far too excited about seeing an old friend. He came up behind Sevika before jumping as Isha violently flapped her wing and paint splattered Sevika's back, making her jump and instantly whip around. "You-" She stopped in shock and Viktor blinked before his hands tightened in his cane. "Me?" He prompted softly. Sevika didn't seem to know how to react for a moment and Viktor gave a weak laugh. Before Sevika could even get a word out, Isha started to spatter more paint. "Calm!" He scolded softly, reaching up and letting her climb into his hand. "Sevika, this is Isha. She knows you, I have heard." He held out the bird to Sevika, who could still only stare. "...What?" She finally asked, her voice weaker than Viktor had ever heard it. Her eyes moved to Isha and she lifted her non-mechanical hand. Isha hopped into it, paint starting to spill through Sevika's fingers. They were shaking. "What??" Isha started to hop up her arm, leaving behind blue and pink paint. Viktor watched them quietly. "Is she dead??" Sevika's voice broke a little and Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose, immediately recognizing when something was too much. Isha finally reached Sevika's shoulder, settling down and letting the paint spill down. Sevika's breathing had sped up and Viktor quickly reached out, taking her hand and giving it a squeeze. He said her name again, getting her attention."...I should not have just... dumped that on you, my apologies. Isha sacrificed her physical body to save Jinx and Vi. In doing so, she finally freed me from that forsaken flesh prison I was stuck in as well." Sevika still looked freaked out and Viktor blinked. "Yes. Isha is dead. But she has returned as I have. Look at her." Viktor stretched a hand forward, prompting Isha into it. She huffed, but hopped down. Viktor pulled his hand back, guiding Sevika's attention to the bird. "Perhaps it was her connection to me that brought her back, but she is here. I only lament that I could not bring her back in completeness. She is here. She is happy to see you and she loves making messes everywhere." Isha flapped her wings again, Viktor jumping as she spattered both of them with paint. He gave a quiet laugh. Sevika's hand was shaking. Viktor knew this was a lot. "Sevika. Perhaps just tell me. You are happy to see her?" He prompted. Sevika stared at him before glancing down at Isha, who was looking back up at her from Viktor's hand with a tipped head. Sevika finally seemed to let out the breath she'd been holding in and she buried her face in her hand, the paint having already faded from it. She nodded to Isha before glancing up at him. "...If I can see you-" "You cannot punch me, no." Viktor replied, a small smile on his face. Sevika sharpened her gaze in a glare and she let out a shaky breath, turning to the side. "I should. Everyone disappears on me and when two of you show back up, you're both dead." Sevika glanced at him. "One of you for the second time." Viktor felt like that could certainly be argued, but he wouldn't. He nodded, holding Isha back to his chest. Sevika seemed to take another few moments to gather herself and it was certainly the closest Viktor had ever seen her come to crying, but she would rather die than do it here. That much, he knew. Isha was felt sinking down into his hand a little. "Listen, bookworm..." "I know about Silco." Viktor said softly, Sevika immediately letting out a swear of relief and turning away. "...Jinx told me herself." Sevika glanced up at him, asking how he was. "I... I just remember that Silco and I would spend the nights talking. We both knew he would not last much longer. We both knew that such a target on one's back was eventually to be struck. And however unexpected it was to be... struck by his own daughter, I do not doubt he would've rather that above all else." Viktor replied quietly. "It is tragic to lose a friend, as it always will be." He glanced down at Isha before looking up at her. "...I take it you do not know of Jinx's whereabouts?" Sevika paused before saying she didn't. "...She thinks Isha and I are both gone. We must find a way to get to her eventually." Viktor paused and glanced back at the rest of the room. "...Are you planning on fighting, Sevika?" "Alongside him??" Sevika gave an offended scoff. "Alongside Piltover?? I'm just trying to see what I'm up against so I can defend Zaun. I was hoping to break Jayce's jaw in too." Sevika scanned him over quietly and her eyes narrowed. "...Why the look?" Viktor hesitated before his gaze moved off to the side. "Bookworm." He took a small step back. "Viktor." Viktor finally glanced up to meet her gaze again. "Don't tell me you two just kissed and made up." Viktor paused. While he wasn't actually sure if he could call it that, it was startlingly close to what had happened. His cheeks slightly misted. "Good fucking gods, you are joking." Viktor finally replied that it wouldn't be a very good one. "What?? So you want me to be buddy-buddy now? Fight alongside the man who nearly broke my ribs in looking for you?? For the glory of Piltover??""No. I would never ask you to fight for Piltover. Noxus wants Piltover. Zaun will just be collateral to them. The reason I am here is to address a different threat. A secondary threat that may prove much greater. I... take it you have noticed that rotting smell within the room?" Viktor asked quietly. Sevika paused and she asked what that was in a hushed voice. Viktor only lowered his eyes. The doors opened and Jayce's voice suddenly came booming through the Council Room. "QUIET." Viktor jumped and immediately shot a glare back at him. Jayce hesitated as he moved forward. "...forgive me, but we don't have much time." He spoke to the entire room. Viktor... hated that coat he was wearing and he'd told Jayce four times that it looked idiotic and he'd insisted on wearing it anyway. He could've at least taken off that clunky shoulder adornment, but he certainly didn't. Viktor tuned most of Jayce's speech out when it came to the Noxian army. In all honesty, he was not worried about them. He paused as that man that had been talking to Sevika growled and called out, demanding to know why Zaun should fight with Piltover if they weren't even what Noxus wanted. The other Zaunites spoke up, following his outrage. Sevika glanced at Viktor and he held Isha out to her. She took the bird and Viktor moved over, fazing through the Council Table to stand next to Jayce. Good gods, here weren't nothing. He'd promised himself he would not get sick until he was done.He seemed to startle Jayce and he stared at Viktor with wide eyes. Viktor gestured to the blanket in front of them. "Zaun does not like you, Jayce. Let me speak." He said quietly. "I was planning on speaking anyway." Jayce hesitated before giving a small sigh. He reached out and whisked the blanket away. Instantly, everyone else in the room seemed to flinch back as horrified gasps and murmurs filled the air. The two halves of the porcelain creature were laid out, the rotting entrails still seen spilling out from inside, staining the table black and brown. Viktor saw Jayce immediately turn away and he sighed quietly. "My name is Viktor." He spoke loudly, louder than he would usually. There were more murmurs and he glanced up. "Many of you-" He gestured to the Piltover elites. "-may have been my academic peers at one point. A very long time ago. I see... a number of you... recognize me." The looks of shock were more than enough. "For those of you who do not know me, I was an Academy of Science student. A Zaunite who managed to be top of the classes. However, many years ago, I dropped myself from a balcony ledge in the late hours of the night." The room went quiet. "It took three seconds for me to hit the ground."More silence. "The time of death was 11:42 PM." Viktor reached up and, with one flick of his hand, half of the room erupted in terrified gasps and shrieks as he pushed his head off his spine, half of his skull caving in. He allowed a moment before he started to fix himself again with quiet cracking. He had to wait for the vision to return to his eye, but he kept speaking. "As you all can see... I am dead. My state is a result of magic. Of this magic, there was a Rune placed upon my skin that kept me tethered to a single place against my will. After a continuous cycle of breaking this Rune and becoming trapped by it again, it gained a sentience. A consciousness. What you see here-" He gestured to the bisected body in front of him. "-is the result of such a thing. It is the Binding Rune." Viktor hesitated before his form changed into that pastel one again. Good gods, having to give a summarized version of this was hard. That ring illuminated behind his head. He reached out, grabbing the Binding Rune from the creature and peeling it straight from the skin before holding it up, passing it to his floating arm so it could show it off. "The Binding Rune's sole purpose... is to mend." He crushed the Rune and everyone startled, a scream or two heard as the creature suddenly started to break apart. The smell got worse as the shell pieces cracked to reveal the actual decomposing body beneath it. The porcelain face stayed on and Viktor was glad because he recognized the commune outfit. He was already trying not to be sick as it was. "In order for the Binding Rune to be used, things must be torn apart. And that's what it will do. When it sees where everyone is, it will come. The moment someone falls, it will take their body and it will 'mend' it. It will send that unholy creation to tear apart more people so it can continue to fix. It will keep going until it has 'fixed' every single one of you." Viktor sighed and turned to Jayce, gesturing to him. "Jayce Talis has the crystal Rune. Him having its physical form will draw the Binding Rune right to him and he had assured me that he will destroy it. That the army needs to be fought off. That the creatures must be held at bay. And most of all... the Hexgates must be shut down so it cannot spread." Viktor stared around the room. "The Rune does not care for labels. Noxus, Piltover, Zaun. It cannot tell the difference. You are all just toys it can rip apart and put back together. That's why Zaun must help Piltover for now. Unless you all wish to become part of an undead graveyard." Viktor fully turned to Sevika and the other Zaunites. "Of course, the choice is yours. Just know that the Rune will not give you a choice. And I pray it does not send those creatures crawling into your homes to come find you. If you do not fight with us... I pray you will be able to hide from them." That pastel form of his died away, the ring and his floating arm fading. He nodded to Jayce, allowing him to take over again. He felt Jayce give his hand a squeeze, him glancing over to meet a proud gaze. Viktor managed a weak smile in response. He finally moved himself out of the attention of the crowd and stopped a few feet away, covering his mouth. He squeezed his eyes shut and finally fazed down through the floor, entering into the empty conference room below, where he could get sick in peace.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
One moment, Viktor had been whispering quiet goodbyes with Jayce, wishing him luck and watching him disappear down into the heart of the Hexgates. One moment, Viktor had been standing at the walls of the Council Building with Vi and Enforcers he didn't recognize, looking off into the distance at an approaching Noxian army. One moment, Viktor had taken a single step forward. The next moment, the sun had been blotted out and he was face-to-face with a different kind of light. Menacing and malicious. The Binding Rune that made up that massive pupil had narrowed into something barely visible and the Rune itself seemed to suddenly rip through the very air, its winding coils rising and slamming into the ground. It was seeking. Searching. And it smelled fucking rotten. Viktor was left shaking. Could they... see it? He glanced back at Vi, his eyes wide. Something had clearly happened, a whole section of the wall having been burned off in front of them. Vi's mouth was open and she paused. "What-"The way glowing lines suddenly started to etch themselves into the wall was delirious and furious. Each Binding Rune that was carved climbed higher and higher, finally erupting over the edge and scraping towards them. Viktor backed up. "Go. GO!" He turned to everyone else, watching them retreat back to the doors. Vi yelled out for him to follow and he stared back at her. "Shut the doors!" He called out, feeling the burning of the Runes growing closer. Vi started to protest, but Viktor's form shifted into that lighter one and his cane twisted into that familiar staff. The moment the Runes came within a foot of him, there was a screaming hiss, several of them being cut off. Vi startled before nodding. "Careful, princess!" She yelled out before shutting the doors. The doors rattled violently as the Runes climbed them, being carved in with the inconsistent force of a ham-fisted toddler. As Viktor turned back, he jumped a little as the first barrage of arrows suddenly cracked into the ground around him. If he wasn't dead already, he surely would've been. He moved forward, trying to guide the Binding Rune back to him so it could hopefully sense Jayce, who was down below at the Hexgates. He watched as those twisted strips of flesh snapped against bone to make up that weaving body. He could see the confusion of the soldiers as blood rained down on them from above. He wasn't sure what they were feeling, but it was clear to Viktor that no one could see this creature except him. The second barrage of arrows came raining down, falling through Viktor. He could see Ambessa staring around and he saw her raise her hand to stop her soldiers as the Rune continued to weave around. She startled, the Binding Rune occasionally lifting patches of soldiers and dropping them by moving through them. Ambessa seemed to signal and, all of a sudden, a glowing green ripple went through the army and the Binding Rune screamed. And Viktor could finally see its mouth open, all of its teeth made of misshapen bones of all shapes and sizes. Several femurs, rib cages, shoulder blade, jaw bones, all sticking out every which way and the smell was something ungodly. Viktor would've given anything to know what Ambessa was seeing in that moment. Three steps forward. Three taps of his staff. That mouth shut, disappearing back into the mass of flesh. Its body was seen physically burning and it started to wind its way back towards Viktor. Viktor could feel his heart racing. He inhaled shakily, already feeling the tears prickling in his eyes. He finally flinched as that mouth opened and lunged at him. The smell was awful, but he didn't feel any teeth. The body thrashed and he could see another eye staring dead at him from deep in the snake's throat as it bit down on what appeared to be a dome made of the Arcane's webbing. He could only stare up at it, watching as blood leaked from around the eye. The snake finally stopped for a moment, heavy, rotting breath sweeping over Viktor. "Are you not tired??" Viktor blurted out, his voice shaking. The eye only stared back at him from deep in the throat. "Are you not tired?? Your form is burning. You are in pain. This cannot be worth it!" The snake's bone teeth scraped backwards over the dome and those massive eyes were fixed on him. Two large ones surrounded by millions and millions of little ones hidden among the rotting flesh and smaller Runes. Viktor took a step forward. He was aware of soldiers starting to run past them, heading for the doors. It seemed like the Noxian army was breaking into flanks, but Viktor knew what his job was. "I know you said you would not speak to me again. I know you said you did not believe me worth it, but I do not believe this is worth it. I know you feel wronged, but your hatred is for me, is it not?? What use do you have for this world?? What use do you have for them?? What use do you have for him??" Viktor's voice strained. "Is it not-" The voice that erupted from the Rune was sliced and scratchy. Scathing and frothing.
Annoying and pathetic.
Viktor jerked back as the snake loomed over him, that blood and flesh dropping around him.
I do not want revenge. You are not worth it. You are nothing more than another obstacle and I am tired of your sticky-sweet kindness. Despite the horrors I have inflicted upon you, you have remained kind and I cannot stand it.
Viktor was absolutely frozen, his hands shaking on his staff as he stared up at it. He squeezed his eyes shut as it spoke again in a mocking coo.
You taste of maple, Viktor.
The voice became that scratching groan again.
I hate maple. But I like apples. I like that taste very much. Your tastes together are appalling. He doesn't need you. He needs me. And I need him. And I will have him.
Viktor flinched as those bone teeth pierced back into the dome. He inhaled shakily as he heard a crack and looked back up into that bleeding eye. Right into that glowing Binding Rune.
If you cannot hate him enough to leave, I must be rid of you myself.
Viktor heard another crunch and he squeezed his eyes shut before there was an absolutely massive splattering noise and those bone teeth jerked backwards. The ground rattled as the snake screamed out again. Viktor was wide-eyed. The snake was coated in pink and blue paint. Around Viktor, he heard soldiers start screaming and he paused. They could see it. Good gods, he felt bad for them. The paint was in its eyes and he startled as something landed on top of his dome. He dispersed it, reaching up and grabbing Isha into his shaking hands. "Isha!! Isha, you were to stay near Vi, you cannot-" He paused as Isha fluttered her wings firmly. He startled as there was a crunch from behind him. One of the Noxian soldiers had been killed from falling debris, his head crushed in. Viktor's eyes widened and he stretched out a hand, but the snake was faster. The other soldiers jerked back, yelling out and trying to attack the snake as those rotting flesh strips grabbed the body, yanking it forward. It twitched and a Binding Rune started to sear into the chest. Viktor flinched, hiding Isha's sight as that porcelain white started to rip from the body's flesh in order to encase it. The lengthy creature that formed was headless, but that didn't seem to be stopping it from crawling around. There was frantic gunfire as the creature immediately turned and flung itself onto another soldier, starting to rip and tear at her. Viktor inhaled shakily. "More paint." He whispered to Isha. Isha blinked and she raised her wings. Viktor raised her up and his eyes widened. For something the size of a sparrow, the tidal waves of paint she summoned spattered the front of the Rune and it screamed out again. Viktor started to back up and the Rune was seething.
Annoying. Unbearable. Pathetic. Just another sweet, sniveling soul.
That mouth opened and the eye was wide within the throat, Isha immediately hiding against him as the Binding Rune's voice became as screechy as a broken vinyl.
I WILL EAT YOU DEAD OR ALIVE, VIKTOR.
It lunged forward again and Viktor had to faze through the ground, him and Isha dropping into the room below as the ground shook. The building was heard crashing in above them and Viktor trembled as he heard the Rune's distant screaming. He had to get it to Jayce. He had to get this thing to Jayce. "Isha! Isha, you must go help Vi. Go. Go!" He tossed her up into the air and Isha awkwardly spread her wings, doing uncertain dips in the air before fluttering to somewhere along the ceiling and fazing through. Viktor froze up as that eye appeared in the windows, frantically searching. He dispersed his glowing form as quickly as he could, hiding behind the conference table. His breathing was dragging and heavy. Jayce.The name rolled off the snake's tongue and Viktor flinched as it dove down, the ground rattling. Viktor was left with nothing but the sounds of battle from above and his own shaky breathing. There was a... clicking noise. Viktor froze up, using the table to slowly pull himself to his feet as he turned, facing the creature as it uncurled from the small ball it had been in, each movement jerky. Viktor started to back up, fazing through the table as the creature started to move forward, squishing heard from inside and blood running from its joints. For some reason, this one... this one felt... familiar. It was shaking Viktor to his core and he finally hit the wall, tears already in his eyes. The creature had climbed up over the table, moving over it like a spider before hopping down and gracefully starting to walk towards him again, tipping its head. Viktor trembled, looking it over. The gold markings around its hips were familiar. They resembled belts and circles and Viktor's heart sank, knowing this had likely been a former member of his commune. He did genuinely feel like he'd failed all of them. He felt like he'd brought them to their deaths. He'd led them to the river to drink and they had drowned. "I am sorry. I am so sorry." He whispered softly, the tears finally escaping down his face. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry, I failed you. I failed all of you." The words strangled and tangled like vines as they pulled from his throat. The creature finally stopped in front of him and Viktor inhaled shakily, flinching as he heard a breath.Viktor's eyes widened and he hesitated. He shakily stretched out his hands. He didn't know if these things could touch him. He didn't know, but he wasn't worried about that. He cupped its cheeks with shaky fingers and his eyes widened as he heard that faint whispery word pull from Salo's newly mangled, newly metallic throat. "...Savior..."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"...Good gods." Viktor instantly leaned around, his eyes wide. "Good gods, Salo..." More tears were escaping him and his voice weakened. "Are you alive in there?" It was barely a whisper as he tried to find some way to get past the shell. The creature stood eerily still in front of him. He dug his thumbs slightly into the face plate, trying to find any kind of opening. Anything at all. The creature was very much able to touch him, but all aggression seemed to have left its body the moment Viktor had returned its touch. "There was a piece of you left. What happened?? Everyone else has died. I feel that would be a mercy compared to... this." Viktor's voice choked a little. He focused a little more and that webbing started to spread across the face plate before it began to crack. Viktor instantly pulled it off, revealing the pale skin beneath it. He was only able to reveal half of Salo's face, the other half of the shell seeming like it had grown straight from the skin. Salo already seemed like he was experiencing partial necrosis, his blue eye pale. But sure enough, he still pulled in breath. Viktor inhaled shakily. Salo had glowing gold liquid running down his face from his gold-veined eye. "Allira... can you see me?" Viktor's voice was weak. Salo's eye slowly moved to fix on him and he let out a weak breath. His neck was still encased in that gold plating. The decomposition seemed to be spreading from the crystallized fingerprints on his head and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "It... hurts quite a bit." Salo's voice was soft and whispery. Viktor felt his heart twist in such an ugly way that it nearly made him sick. "Tired of godhood?" There was nothing mocking. Viktor stared at him, knowing Salo was speaking of his plain appearance as opposed to the one he'd held within the commune. Was he trying to tease him? Viktor only felt more pain as he responded that he'd never been quite fond of it and that ring slowly appeared behind him as his hair lightened. That floating arm materialized as his eyes lit up and a smile seemed to pull at Salo's pale lips. "There you are, Savior." Viktor could only feel an aching in his chest, but he pushed it aside, knowing what Salo was feeling was... If he could take away any of it, he would. Viktor whispered for Salo to sit and they both lowered to their knees. It clearly pained Salo and he squeezed his eye shut. "I... suspect nothing is to be done?" "I'm sorry. Salo, I should have told you no. I-I should have been firmer. You would not be suffering as you are if I had. This is my fault." Viktor managed. Salo watched him quietly before giving another shaking sigh. "Perhaps it is just bad karma, Savior. I was... not a kind man." Salo replied quietly. Viktor furrowed his brow, cupping Salo's head. "You were blinded by privilege. Raised in ignorance. You were selfish, but you were, by no means, deserving of something like this." Viktor insisted, his fingers shaking. "No one is deserving of this. Good gods, why didn't it... why didn't it kill you? This is..." Viktor watched as Salo closed his eye, inhaling slowly. "You are too forgiving." Salo managed quietly, more tears streaming down his face. Viktor pulled him down so Salo could lay his head against his shoulder. Even his floating arm reached down, placing itself gently upon Salo's porcelain head. Viktor could only feel his own tears pouring down his face and he jumped as there was a tearing noise. Viktor turned his gaze to the side as reality seemed to rip open like someone had been trying to cut a hole through felt with a pair of scissors. He saw... Jayce and... Viktor's tearful eyes widened. Was that him?? His hair was long, brown and paled along the tips. His face was pale, but the skin became wrinkled and dark purple from his jaw down. There were gold adornments along the body and those eyes held the Binding Rune as opposed to pupils. He was dressed in dark robes, mimicking the lilac ones Viktor himself sported now. Jayce had that Viktor pinned against the ground, both points of his twisted hammer dug into the ground on either side of the neck. Viktor was shaking. The Binding Rune had taken his form. It gestured at him with slender purple fingers attached to gold-embedded knuckles. It was... his voice. Emotionless and cold, but his. "And see how he holds an enemy of yours close? He sheds tears for the man that nearly exiled you." Jayce stared at Viktor with wide eyes. Salo slightly turned to look at the rip, that pale side of his face visible. Viktor shook. "Y-You encased him while he was alive. He was not broken, why would you do this?? Why would you do this?? He is in agony!" Viktor almost never raised his voice, but he was frantic and furious. "However corrupt a man he was, no one deserves this fate!! This is not fixing or mending, this is torture!" Viktor inhaled shakily. "Th-This is torture, why have you done this??" The upset in his voice was like poison. Jayce could only stare for a moment, his eyes unreadable. Viktor was struggling to hold back sobs of anger. He could only glare at his own face through blurry eyes. "You take my form and you hurt the people I tried to help! I tried so hard to use your abilities for good, yet you remain malicious. My commune... my followers... I cared for them." Viktor held Salo closer, the other's hands curled in pain. There was a scraping noise as the sections of the hammer tore through the ground around the false Viktor's neck. Jayce had turned his furious gaze back down to him. He was breathing heavily, his hands twitching on the handle. "Viktor, let Salo go." Jayce managed shakily. "I don't want you holding him like that." Viktor stared at him before saying that Salo was in agony. "I don't care. I don't want him that close to you!" Jayce snapped. Viktor stared at him before asking if he was serious right now. "Just let him go!" Jayce demanded. Viktor started to speak scathingly before his false self twitched, scales starting to climb the pale face. "Jayce. JAYCE!!" Viktor screamed out as his other self suddenly began to thrash and grow, scales erupting all over the body as its flesh began to rot. The hole in reality closed up and Viktor was left shaking with the faint smell of rot in the air. His aching heart was pounding. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, swearing softly. For a moment, he had been completely taken back, but then he remembered that Jayce had said all of the Binds on his thoughts would snap the second he came into contact with the Rune. He was praying to the gods that he hadn't just gotten Jayce killed. He shakily looked down at Salo. The other's breathing was becoming strangled and Viktor could hear that death rattle behind each pull of air. While his chest ached, he couldn't help but feel relief. Death would be better for Salo than what he was now. "Close your eye, Salo. I'll... do my best to save you from this." Viktor said softly. Salo stared at him quietly before his eye finally slipped shut. Viktor rested his hand on the back of Salo's head and he closed his eyes, calling out to the Arcane. He was trying to draw it forth and he could feel it tugging on his body in response. But, no, not him. He didn't want it to take him. "Him." Viktor whispered softly. He could feel the crawl of that magic up his arms and he could feel it right in his fingertips before spreading to Salo. He could feel the other man inhale in pain. Viktor shushed him softly. He could feel the Arcane stretching through him. Spreading and exploring. Observing and judging. "...I used to play this song on the cello as a child, Savior." Salo suddenly spoke in a whisper and Viktor's eyes softened on him. He heard no song, but he imagined it was something beautiful. A song that would play during a gala or a play. Something that the wealthy youth of Piltover would learn. Salo's eye was fixed on a distant point. "I have not heard it in years." Viktor nodded, saying that it was beautiful. "It is... If it is played correctly... with a small bit of flourish... it is something grand." Salo agreed quietly. Glowing veins were starting to climb up his cheeks, soon spreading up onto the porcelain shell. "...Where am I going, Savior?" Salo continued to lie limp against him, the electric magic of the Arcane fizzling over them. "Somewhere better than here. Somewhere peaceful." Viktor replied quietly. He jumped as the doors burst open. "There you ar-" Vi stopped as she saw him. Viktor glanced up at her, tears still running down his face. Vi's eyes moved to Salo and she paled a little, the fingers on her gauntlets instantly curling up. "...oh, fuck. Is he alive??" She sounded absolutely shocked, standing in a guarded position. Viktor inhaled shakily and looked back down to Salo as he replied that he hopefully wouldn't be for much longer. Vi clenched her jaw as she moved around the table. "I... I mean, I hated the guy, but..." She knelt down, looking him over. Salo's eye had become distant, the colored veins having reached it. "Fuck." Her voice strained a little, her gauntlets coming off with a hiss. She pulled her bandaged hands out. "What's... happening to him?" "I am sending him away to the Arcane. Letting it take him. Absorb him so he may not live another moment longer like this. He hears a childhood song right now. He feels no more pain." Salo's body physically seemed to fall limp, only rattling leaving him when he breathed. "I just wish I could make the process faster." Viktor's voice strained painfully as fresh tears filled his eyes. "He did not deserve this." Vi stared at him and Viktor met her gaze. "...I cared for everyone in my commune, Vi. I knew them all by name. I knew what had ailed them and, after giving them my warnings, I fixed it. I know what accompanied that cure was something... unsavory, but those were... my followers. Look at them." Viktor's voice broke a little. "They relied on me a-and look what's b-become of them." His voice was shaking and he felt Vi gently nudge his shoulder for a moment. "You didn't do this, princess." She told him, her brow furrowed. Viktor shook his head, saying he'd done everything. He paused as that pulling suddenly started to retreat. Salo's eye had lost its light and, when Viktor listened, he heard no more breathing. He backed up and shakily laid Salo down, only able to stare for a moment as more tears ran down his face. His robes changed back to his Academy uniform as the ring and the floating arm faded. He finally asked where Isha was and Vi replied that she had refused to come along since she seemed like she was determined to keep the soldiers blinded by paint. Viktor nodded. "Come on, we should-" Vi paused and Viktor instantly lifted his head as he heard that faint noise. Music. Not something soft or elegant. Something upbeat, offbeat and pounding. Viktor's eyes went wide and he got to his feet as quickly as he could, wiping his eyes. "V-Vi, I must g-" "Go! Go, I'll catch up!" Vi exclaimed, her eyes wide. Viktor instantly dematerialized, appearing back out of the ledge and moving to the edge. Only one person listened to such vibrant music and, after what he'd just done, he had to see her again. He had to show Jinx. He had to show her that he'd persisted. Yes, the horrors had persisted, but so had he.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The beast of an engineering marvel that soared above was so grand and so messy that Viktor knew in an instant that Jinx had built it herself. Her own airship. He startled as several green lines suddenly seemed to zip away from it and he jumped as bullets started to rain down from above. They passed right through him and he could only stare. Where was it? Where was it? Where was she?? Viktor jumped as a spear stabbed through him before drawing back, the Noxian soldier looking taken back. Viktor turned to look at him just in time for one of the porcelain creatures to lunge at the soldier. Viktor's eyes widened and he reached out, his staff materializing as that ring lit up around his head again. He wasn't quite sure what happened, but the soldier and the porcelain creature were sent flying in opposite directions as Viktor's appearance fully changed again. He turned to look back up at that balloon again, the circular deck surrounding it giving a slow, rotating spin as it moved. Where was she?? She had to be at one of the mounted guns he saw. She had to- When their eyes met, Viktor dispersed his Arcane-fueled appearance just for a moment. Jinx's eyes were wide and the bullets stopped in an instant. Even all the way from down here, Viktor could tell from her lips that she'd screamed his name. He smiled before startling as he heard a rattling noise right behind him. Before Jinx could even swing the gun around, the porcelain creature that had grabbed Viktor was knocked away by a gauntlet that partially flew through his head. "Princess, these things can touch you, don't forget." Vi panted out, Isha seen on her shoulder. Isha was fluttering her wings desperately as she looked up at where Jinx was. "Isha! Isha, here." Viktor held out his hand and Isha hopped down into it. He hid her sight as another body near them started to twitch and grow out that porcelain shell from inside, spasming and morphing. Viktor was almost too distracted to notice the- Fuck. Viktor's Arcane-fueled form reappeared in an instant and he held up his staff as he practically shoved himself against Vi and that webbed dome quickly appeared above them. Something massive landed atop it not even a moment later with a spatter of bright green liquid. All her saw were golden claws digging into the dome and he inhaled shakily. "Vander." He barely managed the name and Vi looked up, both of them peering into unnatural glowing gold eyes from a nearly featureless face as the porcelain beast started to strike at the dome, each hit rattling it. "No." Vi's voice was strangled. "Warwick." Viktor felt his chest ache painfully and they both jumped as bullets suddenly rained down, striking along Warwick's white-plated back. That seemed to get its attention and it turned before suddenly leaping and digging into the side of the Council building before leaping up again, landing right of the spinning deck of the makeshift airship, tipping it awkwardly to the side. Viktor was dematerializing in an instant and he did feel slightly bad not warning Isha, since she seemed to get unbelievably dizzy whenever he took them somewhere else. Viktor reappeared on the deck of the airship, his eyes wide. Jinx was pinned against the center, her eyes wide. Warwick was snapping at her and Viktor couldn't help but notice that Jinx's braids were gone. Her body was covered in paint, she had new color in her bangs. It struck him that Jinx had... become someone new again. She had kept a name, but Viktor could sense that change. His heart was pounding and he brought Isha out, placing her on his hand. "Isha. I need all your energy for this." He whispered. He raised an arm, angling his body. His thumb raised. His pointer finger up. The rest of his fingers curled in. Isha seemed to visibly perk. Viktor saw Jinx look over and her eyes went wide. There was a giggle. A memory. Viktor remembered it so clearly. Silco's office. Small Powder, running around the desk. One of her very first times trying to figure out where Viktor was in the room before she was able to see him. Viktor had kept himself so quiet. Powder had ducked around the desk, her arms and hands pressed together in a gun shape. She had been smiling so wide. That same mischievous giggle. Finally, Powder stepped out from behind the desk. Viktor aimed at Warwick. Powder aimed at him. That magic started to crackle along his arm and Isha raised her wings as Jinx finally yelled out. "BANG!!" Bang. The following torrent of paint was so supercharged by his Arcane magic that Warwick was blasted straight past the ledge and so far into the depths of the Council Building that he'd left a paint-splattered tunnel. Viktor inhaled shakily and lowered his arm, his other hand catching Isha as she dropped. Viktor managed a shaky laugh before jumping as he was suddenly tackled. Tackled??? Was Jinx touching him?? He stared at her in shock and he glanced down before seeing the way her skin had a purple glow wherever it met his. The Shimmer. The Shimmer flowing through her body. "Jinx." Viktor finally hugged her back, tightly holding her. Jinx broke out in delighted tears, the liquid glowing and fizzling down her cheeks. "Dad." She barely was able to whisper the word and buried her face against him. "You've become someone new again." Viktor said softly, reaching up and holding her shoulder as she sniffled, trying to wipe her eyes. "A-Are you still proud of me??" Jinx asked shakily, looking up at him. "Always, Jinx, always." Viktor assured her. "Good gods, I was freed from that false flesh. And..." Viktor held Isha up in his hands, the small bird still sporting that tiny mining hat. Jinx could only stare for a moment. "She could not be brought back in full." Jinx shakily raised her hands and Viktor dropped Isha into them, the small bird giving a hop. Jinx's hands were filling with paint and Jinx finally let out another choked sob. "Kid. Kid, I thought I lost you." She croaked out. She hadn't stopped crying and Isha hopped a little, her paint becoming more pink than blue now. Viktor laughed and hugged her again. "You built this?? Jinx, this is incredible! You are incredible, Jinx! Good gods, look at this!" Viktor exclaimed, his voice breathless with awe and pride. Jinx lit up, puffing her chest up proudly. There was a whirring sound and Viktor paused, glancing over. To his surprise, Ekko hopped down from a hoverboard, the bottom glowing a neon green. That's what those lines had been. And... "Ekko?? You made it, where is-" Viktor stopped as Ekko spoke, his eyes averting as he stated that Heimerdinger hadn't made it back through. Viktor's shoulders sank. He paused as he noticed the paint on Ekko too, his eyes moving back to Jinx, studying her paint. "...You two painted each other?" He asked after a moment. Ekko paused and he glanced aside again as Jinx spoke again, saying she thought she'd done a pretty good job. Viktor couldn't help but take notice of some paint dipping under their waistbands and he furrowed his brow."Dad!" Jinx lightly smacked his arm and Viktor jumped a little as he stated that he was just curious. "...Dad???" Ekko finally spoke in complete and utter shock, Viktor blinking and glancing over at him. Jinx giggled and hugged Viktor again. Viktor smiled before quickly moving forward. A thought had occurred to him and he spoke in a quick voice. "I should not have blasted him down. If he's breached the Hexgates..." Viktor's voice was hushed in shock. He paused, seeing Warwick already bounding back up the tunnel, rapidly digging his claws into whatever he could reach. All of a sudden, Vi appeared below, slamming her gauntlets down and creating a blast of energy that sent Warwick tumbling back down. Vi was panting. "I-I must get him away from the Hexgates. My apologies." He glanced at Ekko with a furrowed brow. "...We may be speaking more later." He turned and dematerialized. When he materialized, he was next to Vi again. "Vi! Vi, we cannot have him down there, the Hexgates!" He told her quickly. Vi stared at him and Viktor could see the moment it clicked, her eyes wide. However, she didn't even get a chance to speak, swearing as those golden claws grabbed her waist, lifting her and throwing her down the tunnel. "Vi!" Viktor cried out and his eyes widened as Warwick slammed him to the ground, those golden claws splayed over his chest. He smelled so bad. He smelled so bad and Viktor could hear every crunch of the body twisting within the shell. He squeezed his eyes shut and he startled as he heard that music growing closer. "INCOMING!!" Jinx yelled out. And it sure was, the entire airship coming down on them. She suddenly heaved one of the mounted guns off, running and throwing herself off the deck to land on a nearby rooftop. The airship, however, landed much less gracefully and Viktor flinched as Warwick was blasted off of him by the following explosion, broken pieces of shell falling as he was sent back down the tunnel. Three seconds for the music to stop, scratching and screeching before dying. Viktor quickly got up, his eyes wide. He dematerialized and when he materialized next to the Hexgates, he flinched, stumbling and holding his ears at the warble. It was so loud. It was unbearably loud and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, his breathing spreading up. That proved to be a mistake and he heard Vi scream out. "VIKTOR, FUCKING MOVE!!" He opened his eyes to see that entire beast lunging towards him, those rotting jaws open beneath that cracked porcelain face.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Another blast of energy shoved the beast just to the side of Viktor. Viktor felt the very tip of those gold claws slice open his cheek. He was left stunned for a moment and Vi stood up, having slammed her gauntlets into the ground again. She glanced up behind him at the tunnel and her eyes widened. "Holy shit, she's fast." Viktor blinked and turned to look. Jinx's eyes were aglow and it looked as if she was teleporting every three seconds. Quick steps. Jinx finally landed near them, still carrying her massive gun. She was panting and she turned it on Warwick, the barrels starting to spin as she fired, beating the beast deeper and deeper into the wall. More pieces were falling off, but greenish-purple blood spilled down his porcelain body as the shell started to grow back, pushing from under the rotting skin. He smelled rank. The gun finally came to a halt and Jinx back up next to Viktor, seeming to be letting the dust settle for a moment. "Where is Isha?" Viktor asked quickly. "Is she with Ekko?" Jinx nodded, her eyes remaining on the dust cloud. Vi came up on Viktor's other side and held her gloved hand out, pushing Viktor ever slightly behind him. "Vi, I am capable of protecting myself." Viktor stated, a little taken back. Vi scoffed, telling him to say that to the gash on his face. Viktor started to reply before freezing up. The dust was clearing and Warwick's eyes were glowing. He had gone completely still, standing in place and staring. Jinx scrunched up her shoulders instantly and Vi got into a defensive position, her brow furrowed. When Warwick still made no move towards them, Viktor became... aware. The ground was starting to shake beneath them and he had three seconds to shove all of them forward, turning to look back as the Binding Rune's massive head broke through the floor.That was... Viktor felt himself go cold and before he knew it, he was already screaming out. "JAYCE!!" Jayce was trapped in the Binding Rune's bone teeth, his eyes squeezed shut and blood running down his chin. He didn't even have his hammer anymore. Viktor only saw him a moment or two longer before the Binding Rune crashed through the ceiling, sending debris raining around them along with strips of rotten meat and darkened blood spatter. The rest of the serpent's body continued to slide upwards and Viktor heard Jinx cry out, her eyes still glowing and wide. "Holy shit!" Viktor could only imagine that meant Jinx was seeing the Binding Rune in full, like he was. Viktor was shaking and he took three steps forward. "Hey!" Vi quickly moved into his view. "Princess, we know what the plan is. You can't go after him." She looked him over. "Won't this be good for you?? He'll be the hero he wanted and you don't have to deal with him anymore." Viktor could only stare at her and she furrowed her brow. Not only was she trying to stop him, but Viktor could see the slight heave of her stomach. She was also trying not to be sick. "Viktor, don't." "I can save him! Vi, I can save him, please let me. I know how to do it." Viktor instantly blurted out his words. Of course, he didn't... know how to do it, but he had a pretty good hypothesis that needed quite a messy experiment. "Viktor, we know the plan! And good fucking gods, you told me yourself that this man has done unspeakable things to you, why are you so desperate to save him?? He came to this battle expecting to die, so let him die. Let him die and get all that glory to fuel his ego one last time!" Vi sounded in absolute disbelief of him. She blinked. "Why are you crying??" Was he? Viktor was breathing shakily. He was. He could feel the tears streaming down his face, the gash burning as the tears slipped into it. "Viktor, you have to put yourself first!" "I can't! Vi, I need him. I need him with me. I cannot let him die." Viktor insisted. His eyes flicked past her and his heart was racing. How long was the Rune's body?? He could still see it climbing behind Vi. The numerous piles of rotten meat around it almost made him gag. Viktor jumped in shock as he felt Jinx grab his shoulder, spinning him around. "You're still with him???" Jinx asked in complete shock, looking him over with those glowing eyes. Viktor could only stare back at her with an open mouth for a moment. What could he say?? What could he tell her to make this look any better?? Yes, he was still with the man who'd hurt him. Yes, he was still with the man who'd trapped him. Yes, he was still with the man who daydreamed of scattering his organs all over the floor. He could only stare back at her and, before he knew it, more tears were escaping him. Jinx's shoulders sank and she watched him in dismay. "...That much, Dad?? After everything he did?? How much he scared you??" She sounded hopelessly confused and Viktor had not a chance in the world of trying to clear it up for her. Jinx didn't seem to understand at all and Viktor couldn't blame her. He barely understood it himself. Viktor's eyes drifted past her and he felt a chill down his spine. Warwick still hadn't moved. "Dad." His eyes moved back to Jinx and she had started to look distraught. "What if you don't make it?? What if we let you go after him and you die too?? What if it eats you or crushes you?? What am I supposed to do?? What if you disappear and you end up somewhere far, far away from me?" Jinx's scratchy voice broke a little. Viktor stared at her with wide eyes before moving forward and reaching out, Jinx grabbing his hand. He gave it a squeeze. "Jinx, no matter where you go, I will come back to you. This will not kill me. This thing will not kill me." Viktor said shakily. "Even if it sent me away, I would find a way back to you. I will not abandon you. You will not be left alone. You still have Isha. You still have your sister." He turned to look at Vi's whose shoulders sank a little. Viktor turned back to Jinx and placed his hand on his chest insistently. "And you still have me." Jinx stared at him for a moment and those Shimmer tears had welled back up in her eyes. "Swear it." Her voice broke again. "Swear that you'll find me wherever I go." "I swear it, Jinx..." Viktor's voice weakened as he spoke again. "Please let me go to him. Please let me save him." He begged weakly. Jinx clenched her jaw, clearly so disapproving of this. The body of the serpent was growing thinner and Viktor had a feeling that the moment that tail ended, Warwick would be back in full swing. "Jinx, please. Please let me do this. I need him. I need him with me." Viktor hated how miserable and desperate he sounded, but he couldn't stop the pain in his chest. Jinx stared at him. "...Once you save him, I want you to march him right to me. I want him to apologize. I want him to apologize to me and, most of all, to apologize to you and I want to see it. I want to give him one good punch in the gut before I can even begin to think about forgiving him." Jinx said firmly. "A-And I mean it. The moment this is over. The moment it is over, I want him to be groveling for forgiveness on his knees. Or I will never let him near you again. Okay?? That's what I want, Dad." Jinx's voice was giving the slightest tremble underneath her words. Viktor stared at her before nodding. "I-I cannot guarantee he will grovel, but he will apologize. I will bring him to you and you can beat him up all you would like, but you must not kill him." Viktor stated. Jinx sniffled before nodding."...Deal." She mumbled quietly. She finally released his hand. "You have to go. Quick." She startled as the serpent's tail suddenly ended and, as Viktor suspected, that seemed to snap Warwick straight from his odd little hibernation, his rotting jaw breaking open as he lunged towards them. Vi grunted as she moved in front of them, throwing such a heavy punch that it sent Warwick crashing into nearby crates and Vi nearly fell straight over. Jinx instantly heaved her gun in that direction. "Go, Dad!" Viktor stared at her before freezing as he met Vi's gaze. She seemed both baffled and disappointed, but she shook her head. "Go save your prince. We'll handle this. Right??" Vi called out to Jinx, who instantly grinned and nodded. Viktor nodded to them in response before he backed up. He closed his eyes, dematerializing as he heard the start of rapid gunfire. It went silent. He materialized where he felt Jayce and when he opened his eyes, he was standing atop the broken sphere that adorned the Council Building. He gave a shiver, his eyes wide. In front of him, that rotting, twisted body was outlined against dark clouds, the sun having been blotted out and the world having been thrown into dim light. Jayce was hanging halfway out of the mouth and he had his eyes squeezed shut. Viktor flinched as Jayce opened his mouth and let out the most gut-wrenching scream he'd ever heard. At the noise, Viktor watched as all the 'scales' of the Binding Rune started to illuminate in gold. It started from the end of its mangled snout and started to spread down the body. "JAYCE!!" Viktor screamed out and the Binding Rune let out a hiss.
Why won't you just let me have him?! You will die with him. I don't care if you aren't even worth my words, you are still worth the piece of food that you are!
The Binding Rune screeched and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, covering his ears. He inhaled shakily. Jayce was looking over at him, blood spilling into his eyes from his mouth as he was dangled upside down from those bone-filled jaws. Around him, Viktor started to see hands. Those porcelain hands all started to appear, gripping and heaving up the rest of the bodies. Viktor started forward. Three steps forward. This thing would not kill him. Three steps forward. This thing would not be the death of him. It would not be the death of him. Three steps forward. He would be sure of it. He reached out a hand and Jayce stared at him for a moment, his breathing visibly ragged before he stretched out his own in response. It took three seconds for their hands to grab each other. It took three seconds for the Rune to tip its head back. It took three seconds for it to swallow them both whole.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Viktor had not been back in this purple-tinted place for so long. It was so, so quiet. He could barely move, his eyes perfectly level with that reflective ground. He stared forward, able to see the endless stars stretching above him. Despite how open it was, he felt like he was being crowded. He felt like something was closing in on him and he could barely breathe. He couldn't stop it. He couldn't stop it. This place was no longer welcoming. It hadn't been in a very long time. No snarky comment greeted him. No warm teasing. No more Hexcore. This place hadn't been welcoming in a very long time. One of his hands was dipped below the surface of the reflective ground, causing ripples in every direction. He was... holding on to something. Viktor's other hand twitched to life and he pressed it against the false ground so he could push himself up into a leaning position. This soon proved to be a mistake and Viktor felt his already weakened breath catch in his throat. The hand slipped below the surface was holding onto a bigger one. He could see him. Jayce sported that same astral look as Viktor. Glowing white hair and a white silhouette swirling with the colors of the Arcane from the shoulders down. And yet, his eyes were shut and blue veins stretched across his arm from a single, glowing point. He was suspended, drifting below him. Below the surface. There were vibrations being sent through Viktor's fingers, similar to how one's throat would feel while speaking. Something was speaking.
Hang. Hack. Slash. Kill.
Viktor could only stare below at the coils.
Hang. Hack. Slash. Kill.
Beneath that reflective surface, it was absolutely teeming with those winding coils. Not a single end in sight. Only endless distance of that one little Rune, etched in a pattern over and over and over and over. Scales. Scales. Viktor inhaled shakily. It still felt so crowded. It felt so crushed. He felt crushed. Despite this, he reached down, pushing his other hand into the reflective ground and causing more violent rippling.
Hang! Hack! Slash! Kill!
HANG! HACK! SLASH! KILL!!
With one heavy yank, Viktor grabbed Jayce's hand with both of his and pulled him above the reflective surface, squeezing his eyes shut. The resulting roar resonated so loudly from everywhere around him at once that, when he opened his eyes, he quickly discovered the reason for the crushing feeling. He tried not to be sick. He and Jayce were trapped within a tunnel of meat only being dragged deeper and deeper. Jayce was barely holding onto him and Viktor's eyes widened. His Arcane-fueled form was long gone. Just him in his old Academy uniform. Just him stuck in the pulsing throat of a rotting serpent made from flesh and bone. "Viktor." Jayce's voice was shaking. "Viktor, you have to let go. If this doesn't make you disappear, I will." Jayce was breathing heavily, blood running down his chin as those wide gold eyes fixed on Viktor. "I can hear them talking to me. I can hear them screaming. Your tongue, your teeth, your eyes, I want to rip them all from your face. You have to let me go." Jayce's voice had taken on a strain. "Please." Viktor shook his head. "Just hold onto me. Just hold onto me and I am sorry for the pain you will feel." Viktor said, meeting his eyes. Around them, bits of the throat kept opening up. He could see outside through the mass of flesh, if only for a few moments at a time. Below, there were so many porcelain creatures. They were grabbing everyone. A flash of neon green and Ekko was seen soaring by for a moment. Something blue suddenly spattered the serpent, another scream erupting around them. Isha. Isha and Ekko. Viktor's eyes moved back to Jayce. His eyes moved to his arm. The crystal was already sparking and glowing dangerously, no doubt from being inside of the very creature it had formed. Its very own self. Viktor reached out his other hand and placed his fingers around the crystal. "Viktor??" Jayce spoke in a strained voice and his eyes met Viktor's. They widened and it was the first time Viktor had seen Jayce look so panicked. "No. No, Viktor, wait!" Viktor shook his head and Jayce screamed out as Viktor dug his nails into the skin around the crystal. He squeezed his eyes shut, only able to feel Jayce's flesh tear beneath his fingers as he desperately clawed at it. The other's grip was loosening on him the deeper he dug into his wrist. The way Jayce was screaming and begging for Viktor to stop absolutely broke his heart and he kept his eyes shut. There was so much blood and flesh beneath his nails. Finally, finally, he hooked the edge of the crystal. The scream Jayce let out as Viktor wrenched it from his body with a sickening crunch was the most pain that Viktor had ever heard this man experience. His grip on Viktor went completely limp and Viktor didn't even have to look to know he'd likely just completely ruined Jayce's chances of mobility with that hand ever again. He inhaled shakily. The crystal Rune burned his fingers and he could feel the anger and the hate, as pure as it could get.
Hang. Hack. Slash. Kill.
Hang! Hack! Slash! Kill!
HANG! HACK! SLASH! KILL!
The violent thoughts flooded through Viktor's body so fast that he gagged. He inhaled shakily and he finally released the Rune from his fingers. He opened his eyes, forcibly keeping his focus off Jayce's gouged out wrist. The crystal began to slide down the throat and Viktor could see Jayce twitching as he watched it start to fall past him. "Don't. Jayce, don't! Please! Please look at me." Viktor begged him, blurting out the words so loudly that he even scared himself a little. Jayce jerked his head up to look at him, tears staining his face. Viktor inhaled shakily. His grip was becoming loose. His eyes widened as his hand slipped from Jayce's. Jayce made a noise of protest, but Viktor reached out and grabbed his hand again.
Bzzt.
Jayce jerked his head up to look at him, tears staining his face. Viktor inhaled shakily. His grip was becoming loose. His eyes widened as his hand slipped from Jayce's. Jayce made a noise of protest, but Viktor reached out and grabbed his hand again.
Bzzt.
Jayce jerked his head up to look at him, tears staining his face. Viktor inhaled shakily. His grip was becoming loose. His eyes widened as his hand slipped from Jayce's. Jayce made a noise of protest, but Viktor reached out and grabbed his hand again.
Bzzt.
Jayce jerked his head up to look at him, tears staining his face. Viktor inhaled shakily. His grip was becoming loose. His eyes widened as his hand slipped from Jayce's. Jayce made a noise of protest, but Viktor reached out and- What was... happening?? Viktor paused. Right then, he could... He could do as Vi said. He could do as Vi said right then and there. Let Jayce die. Let him have his glory. Let him leave his life for good. "...Impossible." Viktor whispered to himself. He reached out and grabbed Jayce's hand again. No matter what, he would always choose to grab his hand. "Jayce!" Viktor stared down at him, finally managing to stretch out his other hand. Jayce squeezed his eyes shut as Viktor held his cheek with his bloody hand. Despite his fear, he tipped his head into it. There was a loud crackling from below. It only got louder and louder. Outside the body, something split and Viktor felt the Arcane heave.
BZZzzzZZZZT.
"...Impossible." Viktor whispered to himself. He reached out and grabbed Jayce's hand again. No matter what, he would always... choose to.. grab his hand. He blinked a few times before crying out. "Jayce!" Viktor stared down at him, finally managing to stretch out his other hand. Jayce squeezed his eyes shut as Viktor held his cheek with his bloody hand. That crackling was so unbearably loud and a part of the body opened up for a split second. Below them, Ekko was throwing something. A crackling container, small figures spinning around inside of it. Nestled right in the center was a spasming, tiny... Hexcore. The body closed, but only for a second as Viktor suddenly felt the throat rip up into shreds around them. It was so hot and bloody. His form burned and yet he remained. And yet he remained. Would he remain?? He could only stare forward. That electricity was... ripping Jayce apart. Starting from his legs, Viktor could see his flesh being torn from muscle. Muscle being torn from bone. And Jayce screamed. Without the constrictions of the throat, Viktor managed to pull him closer. He let Jayce bury his forehead against his own as the magic ate away at him. It spread to Viktor and he could feel his Arcane-fueled form returning. Uniform turning to pale robes. Hair lengthening and lifting into purple-tipped white. That ring slowly illuminating behind his head and that floating arm, which only chose to hold the back of Jayce's head. Viktor had never felt so powerful. He met Jayce's golden eyes and he could feel tears in his own. Accompanying his power... Viktor had never been in so much pain in his life. It felt like everything inside him was being electrocuted, all the way down a cellular level. He reached out and cupped Jayce's cheeks, glowing veins starting to spread from his hands. Half of Jayce's body had already been ripped away and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. He thought of Mel and Caitlyn. He thought of Ekko and Vi. He thought of... Isha and Jinx. But, above everything, he thought of Jayce. He heard Jayce whisper his name with the last of his voice and he only imagined Jayce thought of him too. Viktor's shoulders relaxed and he took one deep breath. Another. Another.It was always three.Three seconds. Three steps.For three seconds, he'd seen the moon in full glory. In three steps, he'd touched the stars. Three seconds of unbearably loud, overwhelmingly agonizing
silenc-
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The sun was dancing through his ghostly fingertips when Viktor returned from his daze. He blinked a few times, slowly becoming aware of his surroundings again. Had he been dazing all night? It was really morning? Where was...? He pat at the empty part of the bed next to him and gave a quiet sigh. He pushed himself up and took a few moments to steady himself. Finally, he slipped out of the bed, materializing his cane before moving forward. He fazed through the door and emerged into the small hallway. The door across from his was wide open and Viktor felt a warm smile pull at his lips. He turned and followed the hallway until he fazed through another door and emerged out onto the deck of the airship. The wind blew past him. It was a beautiful ship. Top of the line. The latest and newest design. Taken right from the dock of Piltover. Ahead of him... Viktor paused. On the desk, there was a small stand with a golden birdcage. It looked as if it were occupied and Viktor blinked. "Already??" He muttered to himself in disbelief as he started forward. His gaze fixed on the small shape inside. The small bird looked up at him, one wing permanently clipped. Viktor scoffed before glancing up as he heard someone call out. He peered up as Jinx locked the steering wheel in place, moving to the stairs. She was on the upper deck, a huge grin on her face. "Jinx, why is he already in the birdcage?? It cannot even be that far past sunrise yet!!" Viktor called out disapprovingly. Jinx rolled her eyes as she spun the keys along her fingers. Her hair had started growing out again. The shoulder of her shirt was stained with paint and Viktor glanced around curiously, not able to see their second troublemaker anywhere. "He bit me! He was sitting out here all by himself when I woke up and when I tried to pull him back from the edge, he bit me!" Jinx's scratchy voice broke again as she spoke firmly. She held up her other hand and, sure enough, one of her fingers was bandaged.
She grabbed me! It scared the hell out of me and I reacted instinctively.
Jayce spoke defensively and Jinx gave the most dramatic eye roll Viktor had ever seen. "I don't know if you forgot that this thing is moving a lot faster than it appears or that you are maybe the size of an apple or that you only have one wing, but sorry I didn't want you to drop off the edge!" Jinx exclaimed, throwing her hands out to her sides.
I was just fine sitting where I was! I'm well aware of all those things.
"I really, really don't think you are." Jinx answered flatly. She plopped herself down on the steps, the wind blowing her bangs back. Paint suddenly dripped down her cheek and she jumped, glancing up before smiling as Isha landed on her head. "Hey, kid! You having fun up in the ropes??" Isha hopped quietly. She seemed to like exploring the inner mechanisms of the airship. She always had to be careful where she wandered though, due to her paint. Viktor watched them warmly, his hands settled on his cane.
Viktor. Could you please let me out? I swear it was an accident.
Jayce had hopped over to the door of the birdcage. It was enchanted and, despite Jayce's spectral form, he couldn't faze through it. Viktor and Isha couldn't as well. They only used it for when Jayce got too violent. Well, they were supposed to. Jinx always stuck him in there when he annoyed her too much. Or... bit her. Which had happened before. Numerous times. Viktor sighed softly. He moved over to the bottom of the steps and caught the key as Jinx tossed it down to him. He carefully unlocked the birdcage before taking a step back and sliding the key around his neck. Jayce's small form hopped out and fluttered over to Viktor. Viktor reached up and the moment he touched his form, it suddenly expanded and billowed into something bigger. Viktor was left holding a bearded jawline. Jayce was in his dark green shirt and black pants. However, one of the sleeves hung empty and limp. He still had his brace on and Viktor managed a smile as Jayce scanned him over with those golden eyes. "Thank you. At least someone likes me around here." He shot a look at Jinx, who vaguely waved him off. Jayce turned his gaze back to Viktor. "Why did you leave the bed? You know you are unable to maintain this form longer than three minutes without me." Viktor furrowed his brow, his fingers brushing over the beard. Jayce tipped his head against his hand and glanced to the side. "Troubling thoughts?" "A couple. You looked peaceful. I didn't want to bother you with... gruesome talk this early in the morning." Jayce admitted softly. "You have not acted out in a while. Perhaps the reduced stress of the environment is helping?" Viktor asked, his tone hopeful. Jayce paused, his eyes soft before he snorted. "With her, the stress is never reduced." He raised his voice a little, shooting a pointed look at Jinx, who stuck out her tongue at him. Viktor broke out in quiet laughter. He sighed as he looked over Jinx. He placed a hand on Jayce's shoulder, giving it a small squeeze. Jayce paused before nodding, leaning forward and pressing their lips together for a moment before moving away. Viktor felt a small smile tug at his mouth. He turned and moved over to Jinx, climbing a few steps before sitting down below her. Isha spread her wings, splattering paint as she fluttered away towards Jayce. She landed right on his head and he visibly jumped. Viktor sighed before looking up at Jinx with a raised brow. Jinx met his eyes before looking away. "...I'm just... missing them. But if I stayed there, I think I would've only gotten worse and worse. I... If Vi knew I was alive, you know how fast she'd..." Jinx hugged herself. "That Piltie girl will take good care of her. I know it." Viktor nodded. "Caitlyn is strong in a way different to Vi. They will be good supports for each other." He scanned her over quietly. "I do think you... should've told Ekko. When you went to go sneak away Isha. I know he wouldn't leave Zaun, but he could've kept your secret." Viktor kept his voice light. Jinx continued to hug herself and her eyes averted. "I wasn't ready for that, Dad. Maybe after some time has passed, I can... try again. For now, I just want to be away from it all. Stay with this tiny little group where I can have both the shower and all the food to myself." Jinx managed a weak little giggle and Viktor rolled his eyes. He glanced over at Jayce, the other now holding Isha in his gloved hand. "...He doesn't have that... bad feeling anymore. Isha's finally letting him hold her in his hand. He gets kinda distant and twitchy sometimes, but... I don't know if I can really... judge him for that." Jinx sighed. "...He makes you happy, doesn't he?" "Unfortunately." Viktor replied quietly, resting his head back against the wood as he scanned Jayce over with warm eyes. He sighed and turned to look up at her. "We are passing over Bilgewater today?" Jinx nodded, giving a shrug and asking if he wanted to explore it at all. "Mm, not today. Perhaps a later time." He sat for a moment before pushing himself up. "My apologies, he has three seconds." He started making his way over. Three seconds. Isha fluttered in shock as Jayce's form started to twist and shrink. Viktor quickly caught him before he could hit the ground, holding him up in his palm. He fed him his energy again and Jayce soon grew back to his human form again. Isha had fluttered away back to Jinx. "Ugh. I thought I was getting better with the timing." Jayce muttered. There was a prick of nervousness in his eyes and Viktor blinked."...I believe she is warming up to you a little more. She just has slight concerns about... your dazes." Viktor told him softly. He dematerialized his cane, cupping Jayce's jaw. He dragged his thumbs through his beard. "I'm doing my best not to do that in the open. The thoughts just... get loud sometimes." Jayce said quietly. He scanned Viktor over before speaking in a playful voice. "You really like the beard, huh?" "It suits you." Viktor admitted, his cheeks becoming misty. He reached up. "The longer hair too." He slid his hand through it and Jayce smiled. He wrapped his arm around Viktor's waist. "Jayce. What do you want right now?" "Want... I want to bite you. I want to leave bloody marks all over your thighs and your shoulders. I want you beneath me, saying my name. I want to taste your fizzling blood on my tongue." Jayce sighed, pressing a soft kiss to the side of Viktor's neck. "I want to put you through the bed again." He whispered it, his ears becoming misty as Viktor's cheeks quickly followed suit. "A-And what would you like?" Viktor asked, feeling flustered now. At least all of Jayce's wants seemed to resemble something closer to that now instead of wanting to rip him open. "Like... I would like to hold you. I would like to kiss you. I would like... to finally get these thoughts under control so I don't have to be afraid of hurting you anymore." His voice weakened against Viktor's throat and he nudged Jayce's cheek quietly. "I could give you one of those things right now, if that's what you wish." Viktor prompted gently. Jayce murmured that he would like that and he pulled back. Viktor leaned forward, pressing their lips together. He smiled as he heard Jinx loudly pretend to throw up nearby. It made him start laughing and Jayce scoffed, rolling his eyes. Viktor could feel the wind moving through the both of them, his lips meeting Jayce's again. Three seconds of silence. He waited. Jayce's form suddenly twisted and shrank back into a bird, Viktor catching him as he broke out in soft laughter again.
Damn it!
Jayce fluttered his wing in frustration. "Golden boy got too shy!" Jinx yelled out teasingly from the wheel. "He lasted longer than I thought." Jayce let out a loud huff and Viktor watched him quietly."You will get a handle on it, Jayce. You have not been dead long. It takes practice." Viktor assured him, stroking his thumb over his head. He held Jayce up and pressed his lips to his head, Jayce finally seeming to hide himself with his wing. "...We have all the time in the world."