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hexcorized) wrote2024-01-07 09:07 pm
hexcorized) wrote2024-01-07 09:07 pm
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labyrinthum
Video | Voice | Text | In Person
[ IC INBOX ]
Video | Voice | Text | In Person
[ He hadn't expected to run into Viktor in this place. Not only that, it was a Viktor who was before everything went really wrong at home. It was one untouched by the damage they rained upon the world. Jayce wanted to keep it that way. He certainly would have found somewhere else to stay if Viktor didn't want him there, and he would find another place the moment Viktor decided he shouldn't stay.
Even if Viktor only had was a porch, or a chunk of the floor - Jayce would have taken it. He wants to stay. He doesn't have anything to bring with, beyond whatever was in the satchel - none of which he dared consume. He supposes that wouldn't come as a surprise.
Softly, after a few moments of looking around: ]
Thanks for letting me stay here.
[ He would say for now, but there's no reason to put any limitations on it. ]
Even if Viktor only had was a porch, or a chunk of the floor - Jayce would have taken it. He wants to stay. He doesn't have anything to bring with, beyond whatever was in the satchel - none of which he dared consume. He supposes that wouldn't come as a surprise.
Softly, after a few moments of looking around: ]
Thanks for letting me stay here.
[ He would say for now, but there's no reason to put any limitations on it. ]
[ Viktor more or less has gotten settled here. Visium and Stellari are unlike Piltover and The Undercity, which had made his first month here quite tumultuous to say the least. Jayce's arrival, however, has given him some peace of mind and he's more or less getting used to having Jayce around again. Naturally, he does give Jayce his space and allows him to use the guest room that all these smaller cottages come with. It's quaint, easily accessible for them both, and they each have their shared space.
Of course, working together for 7 something years allows you to get comfortable with the other person regardless. Especially so considering how many hours they had slaved away with the hexgates. Viktor gives Jayce a soft smile and a nod as he walks through the small house, his crutch clicking against the stone floor of the cottage. ]
No need, you would have done the same, I'm sure. [ They were partners, after all. ] It's a bit modest, not much space for work, but it will do.
Of course, working together for 7 something years allows you to get comfortable with the other person regardless. Especially so considering how many hours they had slaved away with the hexgates. Viktor gives Jayce a soft smile and a nod as he walks through the small house, his crutch clicking against the stone floor of the cottage. ]
No need, you would have done the same, I'm sure. [ They were partners, after all. ] It's a bit modest, not much space for work, but it will do.
In a heartbeat...
[ His voice trails off. He only says it in case there was a bout in Viktor's mind that Jayce wouldn't offer the same. It's cozy, comfortable, and even in the short time Viktor has been here - it just felt like him here. It made him feel warm and comfortable being in this space. No extra voices, just the sound of Viktor's voice.
They've worked closely for so long that in a smaller space made no difference to him. ]
More than enough, really. Besides, neither of us has been here long, so we're really just starting.
[ Like a lot of things, this was the part where they would be asking questions, doing things on a small scale. They weren't out here building giant projects, but if they wanted to - Jayce hasn't forgotten how to ask for things they needed. ]
[ His voice trails off. He only says it in case there was a bout in Viktor's mind that Jayce wouldn't offer the same. It's cozy, comfortable, and even in the short time Viktor has been here - it just felt like him here. It made him feel warm and comfortable being in this space. No extra voices, just the sound of Viktor's voice.
They've worked closely for so long that in a smaller space made no difference to him. ]
More than enough, really. Besides, neither of us has been here long, so we're really just starting.
[ Like a lot of things, this was the part where they would be asking questions, doing things on a small scale. They weren't out here building giant projects, but if they wanted to - Jayce hasn't forgotten how to ask for things they needed. ]
[ Viktor is impatient and ambitious and just filled with a curiosity that cannot be entirely tempered with small projects and the like. But he is doing his best with what he has and with the time he has left. ]
I had hoped...to get a lab here. [ It's a murmured sentence as he looks back at Jayce briefly before his eyes stray away again. ] The crystals here can do that as well, create spaces with everything one needs. Truly a fascinating magical anomaly here, if nothing else.
[ He will wander towards the cottage's kitchen as he gets two cups out for some tea or coffee. ] Do you still prefer tea?
[ So much about Jayce has changed that he can't help but ask now. But he wants to learn of any other changes that may be made to him. ]
I had hoped...to get a lab here. [ It's a murmured sentence as he looks back at Jayce briefly before his eyes stray away again. ] The crystals here can do that as well, create spaces with everything one needs. Truly a fascinating magical anomaly here, if nothing else.
[ He will wander towards the cottage's kitchen as he gets two cups out for some tea or coffee. ] Do you still prefer tea?
[ So much about Jayce has changed that he can't help but ask now. But he wants to learn of any other changes that may be made to him. ]
In time, we'll make sure to have a lab. [ They'd both be working in it, after all. Jayce has an easy time making assumptions about the future of a not-yet existing lab. He is admittedly sharing in Viktor's own curiosity about the magic here.]
That's fairly impressive magic. [ He considers that there's possibly a lot more things it can do, likely undiscovered. It's kind of exciting to rediscover everything. ]
I do. Fortunately, my taste doesn't seem to have changed.
[ He watches Viktor. He doesn't follow Viktor into the kitchen, but he does linger against the door frame. He wants to continue their conversation, and he ca also take the tea off his hands when he's finished. ]
As far as you know, does the crystal do this unprompted? Like can I expect to see a random space appear?
[ He's just going to talk shop, of course. It keeps him busy. It feels normal. ]
That's fairly impressive magic. [ He considers that there's possibly a lot more things it can do, likely undiscovered. It's kind of exciting to rediscover everything. ]
I do. Fortunately, my taste doesn't seem to have changed.
[ He watches Viktor. He doesn't follow Viktor into the kitchen, but he does linger against the door frame. He wants to continue their conversation, and he ca also take the tea off his hands when he's finished. ]
As far as you know, does the crystal do this unprompted? Like can I expect to see a random space appear?
[ He's just going to talk shop, of course. It keeps him busy. It feels normal. ]
Edited 2025-03-15 04:09 (UTC)
You would think something that can alter reality would be fairly hard to control... [ Viktor hums in acknowledgement. Taking the pot off once it starts whistling, and he'll pour out the water for them both. ]
But aside from strange happenings every so often, there doesn't seem much in the way of destabilization from the crystal itself. There is, ah, a type of corruption occurring apparently. The crystal here in Stellari and the one in Visium are two halves of a whole. My hypothesis is that once the crystal in Visium shattered and was put back together by a mage called Myrta she may have done something to it, altering its stability and causing this corruption to spread. [ He'll say all of this as he gets their cups ready and he'll hobble over to Jayce with his lack of his crutch to hand him his cup. ]
It is all a hypothesis, of course, but there is some direction for investigation, at least. [ A shrug as he gets his crutch and walks into the living room to sit at the couch. ]
As for that. You have to wish for whatever it is that you want. A specific input for it to register and work through. It's something similar to runes and mages back home, no? It is as if the magic of the crystal is speaking through those that use it. Molding its function and its power to what people using it require. Almost like the Hexcore in a way. [ He takes another sip of his tea. ]
But I wonder if this crystal, like the hexcore, can learn? [ He sounds so intrigued and excited. ]
But aside from strange happenings every so often, there doesn't seem much in the way of destabilization from the crystal itself. There is, ah, a type of corruption occurring apparently. The crystal here in Stellari and the one in Visium are two halves of a whole. My hypothesis is that once the crystal in Visium shattered and was put back together by a mage called Myrta she may have done something to it, altering its stability and causing this corruption to spread. [ He'll say all of this as he gets their cups ready and he'll hobble over to Jayce with his lack of his crutch to hand him his cup. ]
It is all a hypothesis, of course, but there is some direction for investigation, at least. [ A shrug as he gets his crutch and walks into the living room to sit at the couch. ]
As for that. You have to wish for whatever it is that you want. A specific input for it to register and work through. It's something similar to runes and mages back home, no? It is as if the magic of the crystal is speaking through those that use it. Molding its function and its power to what people using it require. Almost like the Hexcore in a way. [ He takes another sip of his tea. ]
But I wonder if this crystal, like the hexcore, can learn? [ He sounds so intrigued and excited. ]
It would be very hard to control.
[ That's his experience. He knows how wild runes can act when they're in a mood. He considers the information Viktor is sharing with him, though. It's quite a lot. The man has put in a lot of footwork gathering information, and Jayce certainly appreciates the head start that it has given them when working together. Truly, there's nothing but admiration that he feels when he hears Viktor speak.
Jayce, renowned for being a genius, feels like he's basking in Viktor's brilliance so often. And he enjoys it. He enjoys the way that they push each other to maximize their skills. He knows, now more than ever, the loneliness he feels when Viktor's not at his side. He doesn't have anyone else in his life that can keep up with him the way that Viktor does. ]
The corruption is concerning, even when stable.
[ He takes the cup, watching as Viktor moves. He has to finish that brace. Just a few more pieces he has to sort. ]
That's a sound hypothesis. She may not have needed to even do anything intentionally. Simply the act of her using her magic to fix it may have been enough. Like just because the piece fits doesn't mean it's part of the right puzzle.
[ He finally takes a sip of the tea, thinking on the last bit. ]
I'm learning that a lot of this place seems to be built on wishes. [ Which is a dangerous thought. And considering he knows what he wished for...is right here in front of him. ] It seems to be like runes and magic and mages. But, presumably at home - there's limits to it. Mage ability, rune combinations, things like that. So if the crystals can make wishes and whims happen for people without magic, then it may be more complex.
[ And therefore, more interesting to them both. ]
I would assume that means it can learn, too.
[ Whether he likes that concept or not anymore, it's hard to say. His expression doesn't suggest any distress at the thought, at least. He'll have to think about it more to decide. ]
[ That's his experience. He knows how wild runes can act when they're in a mood. He considers the information Viktor is sharing with him, though. It's quite a lot. The man has put in a lot of footwork gathering information, and Jayce certainly appreciates the head start that it has given them when working together. Truly, there's nothing but admiration that he feels when he hears Viktor speak.
Jayce, renowned for being a genius, feels like he's basking in Viktor's brilliance so often. And he enjoys it. He enjoys the way that they push each other to maximize their skills. He knows, now more than ever, the loneliness he feels when Viktor's not at his side. He doesn't have anyone else in his life that can keep up with him the way that Viktor does. ]
The corruption is concerning, even when stable.
[ He takes the cup, watching as Viktor moves. He has to finish that brace. Just a few more pieces he has to sort. ]
That's a sound hypothesis. She may not have needed to even do anything intentionally. Simply the act of her using her magic to fix it may have been enough. Like just because the piece fits doesn't mean it's part of the right puzzle.
[ He finally takes a sip of the tea, thinking on the last bit. ]
I'm learning that a lot of this place seems to be built on wishes. [ Which is a dangerous thought. And considering he knows what he wished for...is right here in front of him. ] It seems to be like runes and magic and mages. But, presumably at home - there's limits to it. Mage ability, rune combinations, things like that. So if the crystals can make wishes and whims happen for people without magic, then it may be more complex.
[ And therefore, more interesting to them both. ]
I would assume that means it can learn, too.
[ Whether he likes that concept or not anymore, it's hard to say. His expression doesn't suggest any distress at the thought, at least. He'll have to think about it more to decide. ]
Yes, yes, you would think. But as far as I am aware the crystal is relatively dormant unless wished upon. There doesn't seem to be any sort of disruption or instability that I have observed. [ And he has observed the crystal in the town square quite a bit!! ]
Yes, learning, just like the hexcore. [ He nods. ] I am wondering how it knows what a, ah, specific thing might be. Something like magic restoration since it apparently can give people their powers back. So not only must it realize what the powers of the person wishing for them back are, but how to implement them back into a person's being as well.
[ It really is quite the fascinating study. ] There doesn't seem to be a limit to what it can grant, not that I am aware of. It doesn't run on runes as far as I am aware, and it doesn't take into account the ability of the person either. It simply relies on just what the person making the wish is used to back home and things like that.
Yes, learning, just like the hexcore. [ He nods. ] I am wondering how it knows what a, ah, specific thing might be. Something like magic restoration since it apparently can give people their powers back. So not only must it realize what the powers of the person wishing for them back are, but how to implement them back into a person's being as well.
[ It really is quite the fascinating study. ] There doesn't seem to be a limit to what it can grant, not that I am aware of. It doesn't run on runes as far as I am aware, and it doesn't take into account the ability of the person either. It simply relies on just what the person making the wish is used to back home and things like that.
That's good to hear. [ He's still skeptical of the stability of something with that much power anymore. Now that he knows what it can do that's been observed. There's the possibility of it being able to do unobserved things. He knows how dangerously unpredictable magic can be.
He considers Viktor's comments about how it learns about things - or people - or places. ]
Maybe it's relying on the memories of the person making the wish. So if I were to wish for my Mercury Hammer, it would pull the knowledge from my memories and knowledge - and grant it exactly as I know it is. It sounds -- [ He realizes how it sounds. ] Impossible, I know.
But I don't think it would be outside of the possibility of magic.
[ He knows it's not outrageous for such a thing. He remembers the way that he and Viktor have connected in the Council room, when the Mage from another timeline showed him everything. His own mind is essentially pieced together with glue thanks to magical tampering. ]
He considers Viktor's comments about how it learns about things - or people - or places. ]
Maybe it's relying on the memories of the person making the wish. So if I were to wish for my Mercury Hammer, it would pull the knowledge from my memories and knowledge - and grant it exactly as I know it is. It sounds -- [ He realizes how it sounds. ] Impossible, I know.
But I don't think it would be outside of the possibility of magic.
[ He knows it's not outrageous for such a thing. He remembers the way that he and Viktor have connected in the Council room, when the Mage from another timeline showed him everything. His own mind is essentially pieced together with glue thanks to magical tampering. ]
i just live here now | action - forward dated to next week.
malleiform
2025-04-04 02:59 am (UTC)(link)
[ He's taken some time thinking about a couple of conversations he wanted to have with Viktor. The most important one of them was the one that he had wanted to ahve since he got here. But he also didn't know what the consequences of it would be. Even though he's not been here that long, he's learned through his time here that he doesn't think what is said here will actually impact home. But, since he's here with Viktor, he thinks the man deserves to know more of what had happened.
He wants to give him the choice he didn't give him at home for how he wants to interact with Jayce. It would be awkward, he knew. Worse if Viktor hated him for it. But he had to stick to just what had happened and everything surrounding that. Before anything else, he wanted to give Viktor the opportunity to process this.
And he knew that's what he'd want himself. After everything, all he'd want is honesty, even if he didn't like it.
He had gone out for a short walk, he did that sometimes, but never for long. When he stepped back inside. ]
Viktor? You home?
[ He anticipated he was, but if something in changed in an hour, he wanted to be sure. He doesn't wait for an answer, just continues. ]
I want to do a short check on your brace. Maybe we can have a talk, too.
[ His stomach twists a little, anxious, but keeping it suppressed. ]
He wants to give him the choice he didn't give him at home for how he wants to interact with Jayce. It would be awkward, he knew. Worse if Viktor hated him for it. But he had to stick to just what had happened and everything surrounding that. Before anything else, he wanted to give Viktor the opportunity to process this.
And he knew that's what he'd want himself. After everything, all he'd want is honesty, even if he didn't like it.
He had gone out for a short walk, he did that sometimes, but never for long. When he stepped back inside. ]
Viktor? You home?
[ He anticipated he was, but if something in changed in an hour, he wanted to be sure. He doesn't wait for an answer, just continues. ]
I want to do a short check on your brace. Maybe we can have a talk, too.
[ His stomach twists a little, anxious, but keeping it suppressed. ]
[ Viktor is being a hopeful optimist at best. It does sound far too good to be true, that something of incredible power could maintain itself in such a way but so far he hasn't seen anything that would prove such claims false. But further testing and observation would need to be done. ]
Yes, that might be a thought worth pursuing. It would make the most sense given what we know about it. Coupling it with a sentience... [ Hm. ]
I wonder if the same possibility can be applied to...oneself.
[ Could he potentially use it to transform his body into something...better, healthier? If only to get more time... ]
Yes, that might be a thought worth pursuing. It would make the most sense given what we know about it. Coupling it with a sentience... [ Hm. ]
I wonder if the same possibility can be applied to...oneself.
[ Could he potentially use it to transform his body into something...better, healthier? If only to get more time... ]
[ Of course Viktor was home, where else would he be? It had taken some getting used to their living arrangements, but not much, considering how much time they spent together for 7 years. But that also might be why it was a bit hard getting used to. This wasn't the Jayce he knew, after all, and it was almost like having to relearn everything over again with slight variations. Viktor often cursed his ability to make note of every minute detail and observation about a person, Jayce especially. He's come to realize that living with his lab partner has only made him notice more things about the way Jayce acts and reacts to things. Like a whole new person to study, but still etched with those same mannerisms that Viktor has come to just accept and enjoy about the other. It was strange and it was somewhat heartbreaking in a way that he couldn't fully explain. But it just made his chest hurt ever so slightly sometimes especially if he ever caught Jayce having a rather tumultuous episode.
He was in his bedroom when he heard Jayce's voice. He had heard Jayce leave early in the morning, wondering at times where he goes, what he does, but it's none of his business to pry into such things. Jayce can do as he pleases, of course, and he often comes back within an hour or so, still, Viktor often has to wonder where it is he goes. Viktor will get up from his desk, and the rhythmic thud of his crutch against the wooden floorboards will alert Jayce to his presence immediately. ] My brace? Have you finished the new one already?
[ Jayce tended to be obsessive when it came to work, but Viktor was much the same, so he couldn't fault the man in that. ] And a talk? Quite the ominous delivery. But it's not as if we're busy.
[ A shrug as he walks to the couch to take a seat. ]
He was in his bedroom when he heard Jayce's voice. He had heard Jayce leave early in the morning, wondering at times where he goes, what he does, but it's none of his business to pry into such things. Jayce can do as he pleases, of course, and he often comes back within an hour or so, still, Viktor often has to wonder where it is he goes. Viktor will get up from his desk, and the rhythmic thud of his crutch against the wooden floorboards will alert Jayce to his presence immediately. ] My brace? Have you finished the new one already?
[ Jayce tended to be obsessive when it came to work, but Viktor was much the same, so he couldn't fault the man in that. ] And a talk? Quite the ominous delivery. But it's not as if we're busy.
[ A shrug as he walks to the couch to take a seat. ]
[ Jayce watches as Viktor comes into the living room, taking his spot on the couch. He resists the temptation to guide him there - just as he always would with a hand on his back - but it wasn't like he had to go far. Once Viktor is settled in on the couch, he shifts, turning to go pick up the pieces of the leg brace that he's neatly settled against a wall. It looked complete, at least. ]
As long as everything fits right, yes.
[ He anticipates that it will fit right, though. If it doesn't, he hopes Viktor still wants anything to do with him after the conversation that they're going to have - even if the only thing he allows is Jayce to make sure that the work is done. He gently starts to unbuckle the pieces as he stands nearer to the couch.
Viktor will notice that he's not laughing off the comment about it being ominous, which he would do if it wasn't a serious conversation. But it's weighing on him a lot. What he did, what they both did, what they made. And the what the world is becoming. He doesn't have to tell Viktor everything, but he should tell him most of it.
He kneels down near the other - his right, good leg - on the ground and leans in, gently working to undo Viktor's own work so he can start putting his own work in its place. ]
Mhm. I've made some observations about this world and I don't think we can change what happens. [ His touch as he works on the brace is delicate, fingers moving over Viktor's leg as if he were the most fragile piece of glass. ] So I owe it to you to fill in some blanks.
As long as everything fits right, yes.
[ He anticipates that it will fit right, though. If it doesn't, he hopes Viktor still wants anything to do with him after the conversation that they're going to have - even if the only thing he allows is Jayce to make sure that the work is done. He gently starts to unbuckle the pieces as he stands nearer to the couch.
Viktor will notice that he's not laughing off the comment about it being ominous, which he would do if it wasn't a serious conversation. But it's weighing on him a lot. What he did, what they both did, what they made. And the what the world is becoming. He doesn't have to tell Viktor everything, but he should tell him most of it.
He kneels down near the other - his right, good leg - on the ground and leans in, gently working to undo Viktor's own work so he can start putting his own work in its place. ]
Mhm. I've made some observations about this world and I don't think we can change what happens. [ His touch as he works on the brace is delicate, fingers moving over Viktor's leg as if he were the most fragile piece of glass. ] So I owe it to you to fill in some blanks.
Like wishing yourself well?
[ He needed to know what exactly Viktor meant by that before he considered the possibilities of things going terribly wrong as they had before. He brings his hand to his chin, thinking about it. It's concerning, but he doesn't want to write off the option. ]
I don't see why it couldn't be applied to yourself, though.
[ After all, the Hexcore technically could be. ]
I assume we have a pretty good sample size for people who have made wishes based on the population here.
[ He needed to know what exactly Viktor meant by that before he considered the possibilities of things going terribly wrong as they had before. He brings his hand to his chin, thinking about it. It's concerning, but he doesn't want to write off the option. ]
I don't see why it couldn't be applied to yourself, though.
[ After all, the Hexcore technically could be. ]
I assume we have a pretty good sample size for people who have made wishes based on the population here.
[ Viktor's body tenses for but a brief moment, his eyes wandering elsewhere at the question as a hand rubs the back of his neck. It's evident on his face at least that, yes, that's exactly what he was thinking, had been thinking, especially with using the hexcore which he was decidedly without here. ] In a manner of speaking, yes.
[ This Jayce knew of his prognosis, of course, and whatever occurred afterwards. His eyes look back at him, though now it's with some intrigue and surprise. ] You...think it might work? There's no reward without risk and I must admit, I am curious to see what happens.
[ Asking and evaluating things first and foremost would be the best course of action. ] I'm not sure many have come from their respective worlds with, ah, incurable illnesses, however. But there's no harm in asking, I suppose.
[ This Jayce knew of his prognosis, of course, and whatever occurred afterwards. His eyes look back at him, though now it's with some intrigue and surprise. ] You...think it might work? There's no reward without risk and I must admit, I am curious to see what happens.
[ Asking and evaluating things first and foremost would be the best course of action. ] I'm not sure many have come from their respective worlds with, ah, incurable illnesses, however. But there's no harm in asking, I suppose.
[ He'll stretch his braced leg out with a soft, pained sigh, eyes closing briefly because the pain has been almost unbearable. He's been making do with whatever pain medicine he can find here, but it's never enough. Viktor stills as he watches Jayce undo his makeshift brace that he had to cobble together for himself upon his arrival here. It's not been doing him any favors as his knee and hip ache with the release of it around his leg. His breath does hitch a bit because...watching Jayce looking like that, moving his hands like that, touching his leg like he's the most precious thing in the world and made of glass, it's like the first time he had taken his measurements. A similar thing happened, and it's probably one of the first instances that he became well aware of his...feelings for the other man. That roil of heat building in his stomach and the pounding in his chest as he watches with half-lidded eyes as Jayce is bowed before him. All very sequential and entirely the same as before. He is nothing if not consistent.
Even looking as Jayce does now, it only seems to ignite something in Viktor tenfold. His face is a bit hot before he averts his gaze. ] I appreciate your willingness to share with me. But...I had thought you were against the idea when you arrived. [ He'll tilt his head a little as he finally regards Jayce once more. ]
What's changed?
Even looking as Jayce does now, it only seems to ignite something in Viktor tenfold. His face is a bit hot before he averts his gaze. ] I appreciate your willingness to share with me. But...I had thought you were against the idea when you arrived. [ He'll tilt his head a little as he finally regards Jayce once more. ]
What's changed?
[ Before he puts on a new brace, he moves his thumbs over the sides of his knee, pressing in a little into the pressure point there. His touch is still as gentle as it ever is - if not more so simply by nature of knowing that it has to hurt. He's not oblivious to Viktor trying to keep some of that pain at bay. He doesn't let his hands linger too long before he reaches for the brace and shows Viktor his work. ]
It's pretty similar to what you had at home. Similar to mine, as well.
[ They match. But he considers Viktor's question and he shakes his head. ]
Nothing. Which is...actually why my thoughts on it have changed. I don't think what I tell you here will change what's happened at home. [ As far as he can tell, at least. He starts to gently strap the new brace on, starting down by his ankle. ]
I also want you...to feel like you can ask questions. But it's not fair to you for me to not share things with you.
It's pretty similar to what you had at home. Similar to mine, as well.
[ They match. But he considers Viktor's question and he shakes his head. ]
Nothing. Which is...actually why my thoughts on it have changed. I don't think what I tell you here will change what's happened at home. [ As far as he can tell, at least. He starts to gently strap the new brace on, starting down by his ankle. ]
I also want you...to feel like you can ask questions. But it's not fair to you for me to not share things with you.
[ The touch and pressure applied to his knee sends a shiver down his spine, cold and electrifying before it tapers off and Viktor lets out a deep exhale from his nose. The brace is better fitting, and he can feel the difference in it already. The colors of red and gold are present, as always. Even here and even now, Jayce is putting him in his colors...
His cheeks are still tinged a bit red as he nods once more. He does give a noncommittal hum at that line of thought, though. ] How can you be so sure? What if we are able to retain our memories of this place if we return? Would that not alter history's course back home? I haven't inquired, so I am just as uncertain about such things. But-
[ It's as good a question as any, and Viktor has his concerns, but Jayce seems to think otherwise despite not having much proof to go off of. ] I do appreciate your honesty, Jayce. I also appreciate your willingness to...ah, talk about what has happened back home as well.
His cheeks are still tinged a bit red as he nods once more. He does give a noncommittal hum at that line of thought, though. ] How can you be so sure? What if we are able to retain our memories of this place if we return? Would that not alter history's course back home? I haven't inquired, so I am just as uncertain about such things. But-
[ It's as good a question as any, and Viktor has his concerns, but Jayce seems to think otherwise despite not having much proof to go off of. ] I do appreciate your honesty, Jayce. I also appreciate your willingness to...ah, talk about what has happened back home as well.
[ He takes his time putting it on Viktor - testing each piece as he goes. Plus, he's giving Viktor time and moments to get used to everything. He never goes without adding his house colors when it's something he's made for Viktor. A gentle reminder that Jayce sees him as part of House Talis, even if he's never explicitly said so.
He can really only draw conclusions based on Viktor's question. He can't wholly prove them to be fact. Still, he thinks it's worth even a small potential risk. ]
The more I've thought about it, the more I realize that us not having memories is the most likely case. [ He stops his hands, settling them gently against Viktor's leg, looking up at him this time instead of being focused on his work. ]
The first thing is that when I arrived, you had been here a couple months. But for me - it was quite a bit more time. Six months or more. I think...Even if we hadn't met encountered here, at home you would have mentioned a place like this to me if you could have recalled it.
[ And part of him is willing to do a little messing with the timeline if that's what has to happen. He massages Viktor's leg a little, a gentle strength before he'll put on more of the brace. ]
I think you deserve the truth. And I think that's most important. I don't know if it will change anything, but I doubt it will. I haven't asked, either. But -- I'm comfortable with the idea now.
He can really only draw conclusions based on Viktor's question. He can't wholly prove them to be fact. Still, he thinks it's worth even a small potential risk. ]
The more I've thought about it, the more I realize that us not having memories is the most likely case. [ He stops his hands, settling them gently against Viktor's leg, looking up at him this time instead of being focused on his work. ]
The first thing is that when I arrived, you had been here a couple months. But for me - it was quite a bit more time. Six months or more. I think...Even if we hadn't met encountered here, at home you would have mentioned a place like this to me if you could have recalled it.
[ And part of him is willing to do a little messing with the timeline if that's what has to happen. He massages Viktor's leg a little, a gentle strength before he'll put on more of the brace. ]
I think you deserve the truth. And I think that's most important. I don't know if it will change anything, but I doubt it will. I haven't asked, either. But -- I'm comfortable with the idea now.
Edited (left something outttttt) 2025-04-08 05:02 (UTC)
I think that might work.
[ Which is what he wants, really. He'd rather know what would happen if they made such a wish than suggest Viktor jump right to it, having witnessed what happens when they fly too close to the sun with magic. But Viktor is right, there's not likely a sample. Surely, there's other things that are equally daunting for magic to do -- something that would require as much effort. ]
I mean - we don't have to just ask about illness. It's about anything. Especially more intense or detailed wishes.
[ He closes the distance between them, bringing a hand up to Viktor's cheek, gentle. He realizes in that moment that he doesn't do this very often - not since arriving. He'd always been so physically affectionate with Viktor. Shown his care by way of hugs or touches. And while it's not been totally absent here, it's been different. ]
I want it to be right for you.
[ His attention is focused, solid. As intensely focused as it always is. It's definitely a look Viktor would recognize, and one he has probably seen recently. ]
[ Which is what he wants, really. He'd rather know what would happen if they made such a wish than suggest Viktor jump right to it, having witnessed what happens when they fly too close to the sun with magic. But Viktor is right, there's not likely a sample. Surely, there's other things that are equally daunting for magic to do -- something that would require as much effort. ]
I mean - we don't have to just ask about illness. It's about anything. Especially more intense or detailed wishes.
[ He closes the distance between them, bringing a hand up to Viktor's cheek, gentle. He realizes in that moment that he doesn't do this very often - not since arriving. He'd always been so physically affectionate with Viktor. Shown his care by way of hugs or touches. And while it's not been totally absent here, it's been different. ]
I want it to be right for you.
[ His attention is focused, solid. As intensely focused as it always is. It's definitely a look Viktor would recognize, and one he has probably seen recently. ]
[ Each piece that's put on is responded with a soft exhale of breath as Viktor continues to watch with those piercing eyes. It's only when Jayce finally looks back up at him that his attention wavers and diverts itself to another part of the cottage. He'll swallow thickly before giving a hum of acknowledgement. ] I couldn't imagine keeping knowledge of such a place from you. So, it's sound reasoning if nothing else.
[ He can't find fault in Jayce for thinking that way. He would also come to that conclusion if he had been from a further place in time. Viktor will nod, a resolute look in his eyes. ] Then the truth, from the beginning. After I...after my prognosis. I wish to know what happens after that. Whatever you are willing to say...
[ He will listen. ]
[ He can't find fault in Jayce for thinking that way. He would also come to that conclusion if he had been from a further place in time. Viktor will nod, a resolute look in his eyes. ] Then the truth, from the beginning. After I...after my prognosis. I wish to know what happens after that. Whatever you are willing to say...
[ He will listen. ]
[ He notices the look away, but it's a thought, an observation, for another time. He'll let Viktor have it for now, since the conversation could alter everything about how they interact with each other here. It matters to him that this time he gives Viktor the agency. He lets him decide. Finally, he finishes strapping in the final strap on Viktor's thigh, then a gentle tap to signal that he's done.
He gets up, finally, shifting to move into a chair so they can talk without being next to each other. Intentionally creating a space, a bubble, around Viktor. Room to breathe and process. For every impulse he has to smother Viktor with affection, it's challenging for him to not do it. He's going to be as concise as possible about this entire series of events, he thinks. He wants to ensure that he gives the story without any fluffy details. ]
After your prognosis, we searched and searched for a cure. A way to help you and heal you. Anything we could do to help. It wasn't going well, and Heimerdinger tried to stop us at every turn. He tried to use his power on the Council to put our work to a stop.
[ He folds his hands and settles them into his lap. This is the first big revelation. ]
So I -- forced him into retirement. I took it from him. [ For Viktor. ] I won us freedom but it didn't matter because things spiraled after that. You sought out help in the Undercity.
[ They had fought about it. He doesn't mention that to Viktor, though. He doesn't think he needs to - they know each other well enough for Viktor to know Jayce had some intense feelings about it without saying anything. ]
I -- there's some things I don't know exactly what happened. But you tried to use the Hexcore. And I wasn't there. I was busy. I was always busy. I went to the Undercity with Cait's -- [ What even is Vi to her? ] Someone important to Cait - Vi. We went there to seek out Silco. It wasn't pretty, either. I killed someone - a child there.
[ It still haunts him. He hesitates to continue. ]
I saw what could happen. When I returned home to you, you made me promise to destroy the Hexcore. You didn't want me to use it anymore in pursuit of healing you. And I promised you I would. I didn't want to. But I did. [ A hesitation. ]
So instead, I reached out to meet with Silco. I reached out to broker peace with him. And we put it before the council. Oh, they hated it. But we were going to get it -- and I swear -- I thought that day that the fighting might end. We might be able to free Zaun. We were so close.
But then -- Jinx. She [ An exhale. A pause. He grips his legs with his hands and looks up to Viktor again. His eyes locked onto the other's face. Watching him. It's clear that this was the moment. ] the Council Room got blown away. Turned to rubble. Mel -- Mel saved me but you. She has magic, you know? She put up a shield around me. You weren't so lucky. It should have been me. If she had saved you instead of me. [ He wishes it were him. It should have been him. ]
You were bleeding out in my arms, Viktor. And then the thought of the little time you had left being cut even shorter. It wasn't acceptable. So instead of destroying the Hexcore. [ And here it is. ] I used it on you with the help of your notes. And I waited. And I waited and I hoped more than anything that you would come back to me -- us. [ He doesn't even try to hide the selfish nature of it. ]
And you did. But you were different. You were so different. And you weren't happy with me...I mean, obviously. I broke a pretty big promise. [ He doesn't mention Skye's death because honestly -- he doesn't want to give Viktor guilt over it. Jayce doesn't blame him for it, anyway. ] So you left.
[ And he'll stop, give Viktor time to process this - it's a lot of new information, after all. And it's not just about his ability to follow a story, but it's a lot to emotionally process, as well. ]
He gets up, finally, shifting to move into a chair so they can talk without being next to each other. Intentionally creating a space, a bubble, around Viktor. Room to breathe and process. For every impulse he has to smother Viktor with affection, it's challenging for him to not do it. He's going to be as concise as possible about this entire series of events, he thinks. He wants to ensure that he gives the story without any fluffy details. ]
After your prognosis, we searched and searched for a cure. A way to help you and heal you. Anything we could do to help. It wasn't going well, and Heimerdinger tried to stop us at every turn. He tried to use his power on the Council to put our work to a stop.
[ He folds his hands and settles them into his lap. This is the first big revelation. ]
So I -- forced him into retirement. I took it from him. [ For Viktor. ] I won us freedom but it didn't matter because things spiraled after that. You sought out help in the Undercity.
[ They had fought about it. He doesn't mention that to Viktor, though. He doesn't think he needs to - they know each other well enough for Viktor to know Jayce had some intense feelings about it without saying anything. ]
I -- there's some things I don't know exactly what happened. But you tried to use the Hexcore. And I wasn't there. I was busy. I was always busy. I went to the Undercity with Cait's -- [ What even is Vi to her? ] Someone important to Cait - Vi. We went there to seek out Silco. It wasn't pretty, either. I killed someone - a child there.
[ It still haunts him. He hesitates to continue. ]
I saw what could happen. When I returned home to you, you made me promise to destroy the Hexcore. You didn't want me to use it anymore in pursuit of healing you. And I promised you I would. I didn't want to. But I did. [ A hesitation. ]
So instead, I reached out to meet with Silco. I reached out to broker peace with him. And we put it before the council. Oh, they hated it. But we were going to get it -- and I swear -- I thought that day that the fighting might end. We might be able to free Zaun. We were so close.
But then -- Jinx. She [ An exhale. A pause. He grips his legs with his hands and looks up to Viktor again. His eyes locked onto the other's face. Watching him. It's clear that this was the moment. ] the Council Room got blown away. Turned to rubble. Mel -- Mel saved me but you. She has magic, you know? She put up a shield around me. You weren't so lucky. It should have been me. If she had saved you instead of me. [ He wishes it were him. It should have been him. ]
You were bleeding out in my arms, Viktor. And then the thought of the little time you had left being cut even shorter. It wasn't acceptable. So instead of destroying the Hexcore. [ And here it is. ] I used it on you with the help of your notes. And I waited. And I waited and I hoped more than anything that you would come back to me -- us. [ He doesn't even try to hide the selfish nature of it. ]
And you did. But you were different. You were so different. And you weren't happy with me...I mean, obviously. I broke a pretty big promise. [ He doesn't mention Skye's death because honestly -- he doesn't want to give Viktor guilt over it. Jayce doesn't blame him for it, anyway. ] So you left.
[ And he'll stop, give Viktor time to process this - it's a lot of new information, after all. And it's not just about his ability to follow a story, but it's a lot to emotionally process, as well. ]
You...went against Heimerdinger, for me? [ There is so much that Jayce is saying that Viktor almost can't compute. He knows from his touch with the arcane at the hexgates something was...different, he was different, in that moment. The hexcore calling to him like a siren, drawing him in with its song of change and improvement to his eroding body. He has to wonder why he has given up on himself. What would cause him to want to destroy something that could potentially save his life?
He sees now why it did what it did. A vessel, perhaps? To gain a will and extend its force, its influence. Viktor has never had much agency or choice in his life, his death was destined well before he was even born. His jaw tightens as he watches Jayce before looking away. The betrayal that he hasn't even experienced makes his chest hurt, and the fact that he now knows he will die from an explosion, no less, and Jayce is unable to accept it, so much so that the thought of using something like the hexcore on him was his only choice left.
Upon hearing such a revelation, he almost can't accept it himself, but somehow he can see it. His life was always meant to be cut short, regardless of how or why. His expression is uncertain, angry for a fleeting moment, before it shifts into something neutral. His voice is soft when he finally does find the words to speak.
It's so much that it might almost be too much. His grip on his crutch is tense, knuckles white from the pressure he's exerting. His mind reeling as he tries to absorb and take all of this in. But he had asked before this conversation about what had happened to them both, and now he finally got his answer, but he also has more questions. ]
I died. [ It's said with such acceptance and finality that it makes the air run cold. Of course, he's already died here, so the thought of dying back home isn't so surprising anymore to him. Maybe dying in that explosion would be quick, unlike his time here, where he was gasping and drowning in his blood as blooms of flowers pierced his lungs. Or perhaps his death was even worse back home. ]
You broke a promise, and took my life into your own hands when I was ready and willing to accept death. You...never could, could you, Jayce? Accept my limited time. But I never considered that you would...go so far. [ His tone is somber and shaky as he continues. ]
Of course I would be angry. [ A pause as he looks down at the floor. ]
What happens then? After I left?
He sees now why it did what it did. A vessel, perhaps? To gain a will and extend its force, its influence. Viktor has never had much agency or choice in his life, his death was destined well before he was even born. His jaw tightens as he watches Jayce before looking away. The betrayal that he hasn't even experienced makes his chest hurt, and the fact that he now knows he will die from an explosion, no less, and Jayce is unable to accept it, so much so that the thought of using something like the hexcore on him was his only choice left.
Upon hearing such a revelation, he almost can't accept it himself, but somehow he can see it. His life was always meant to be cut short, regardless of how or why. His expression is uncertain, angry for a fleeting moment, before it shifts into something neutral. His voice is soft when he finally does find the words to speak.
It's so much that it might almost be too much. His grip on his crutch is tense, knuckles white from the pressure he's exerting. His mind reeling as he tries to absorb and take all of this in. But he had asked before this conversation about what had happened to them both, and now he finally got his answer, but he also has more questions. ]
I died. [ It's said with such acceptance and finality that it makes the air run cold. Of course, he's already died here, so the thought of dying back home isn't so surprising anymore to him. Maybe dying in that explosion would be quick, unlike his time here, where he was gasping and drowning in his blood as blooms of flowers pierced his lungs. Or perhaps his death was even worse back home. ]
You broke a promise, and took my life into your own hands when I was ready and willing to accept death. You...never could, could you, Jayce? Accept my limited time. But I never considered that you would...go so far. [ His tone is somber and shaky as he continues. ]
Of course I would be angry. [ A pause as he looks down at the floor. ]
What happens then? After I left?
[ Jayce watches as Viktor's expression changes, trying to take in and figure out what each shift means. What it means for what Viktor is feeling or what he's going to do. Jayce wants to know what he's going to do, if he's going to leave again. He has every right to. He has every right to be angry. He has every right to be hurt.
But Jayce still feels bad about it. He hates when Viktor's upset with him and he's hurting because of something he'd done. Even worse when he's angry at him. But he knows he deserves it, he's not in denial about what he took part in - he's not deny8ing he willfully went against Viktor's wishes with the hope that he would keep the most previous person in his life alive, even if for only a moment longer.
A life without Viktor just sounds unbearable to him. And the longer he's been gone from Jayce's life, the more he understands it. And then Viktor asks. He catches his breath, feeling words caught in his throat. ]
What we made was hurting the Undercity. Taking whatever they had. We were making the runes angry in Piltover and the Undercity was paying for it. When we checked on the core of it all - I got pulled to that other world. [ He looks down, staring at the floor. He no longer wants to look Viktor in the eyes as pieces together the parts that are important. ]
That world where Piltover and Zaun were nothing. When I finally got out...I met the mage who saved me as a kid. It had to have been months. I don't know, I didn't keep track of it. But a long time. Long enough that even when I got back a lot had changed. [ He moves his fingers over the rune in his wrist. ]
You already know that the mage did this to me. But... [ Another piece of the confession. ] My time there. It's not just how I look, or when I seem -- different. I see and hear things all the time. Whispers and images. I was sure you weren't real when I got here. [ Hmm...anyway. ]
The mage told me to end it. So...I did, I thought. But it's not over. When I go home, I have to finish what I started. We have to. And I'm going to do anything I can to bring you back so we can. [ The parts that Viktor needs to know, he thinks, are said. Because even if he had killed Viktor in that commune, Viktor hadn't really died. He was back again. In a way, at least. ]
But ultimately...yes. You died. Right there in the Council Room because anything after that wasn't you. [ But, he also wants to make something - one thing - painfully clear. ]
Viktor, I want you to understand something. I would do anything to keep you alive and by my side. Anything. [ Including the things he did already. He doesn't think he needs to repeat them. ]
I would do anything to have you back because that's the only thing I've wanted and I was too caught up in everything to realize it while you were alive. But the thought of a world without you was unbearable. And I guess part of me knew I could deal with a you who was angry at me rather than no you at all.
[ There's something else on the tip of his tongue, the words linger. But he wants to give Viktor a chance to hear him. A chance to reject him. ]
But Jayce still feels bad about it. He hates when Viktor's upset with him and he's hurting because of something he'd done. Even worse when he's angry at him. But he knows he deserves it, he's not in denial about what he took part in - he's not deny8ing he willfully went against Viktor's wishes with the hope that he would keep the most previous person in his life alive, even if for only a moment longer.
A life without Viktor just sounds unbearable to him. And the longer he's been gone from Jayce's life, the more he understands it. And then Viktor asks. He catches his breath, feeling words caught in his throat. ]
What we made was hurting the Undercity. Taking whatever they had. We were making the runes angry in Piltover and the Undercity was paying for it. When we checked on the core of it all - I got pulled to that other world. [ He looks down, staring at the floor. He no longer wants to look Viktor in the eyes as pieces together the parts that are important. ]
That world where Piltover and Zaun were nothing. When I finally got out...I met the mage who saved me as a kid. It had to have been months. I don't know, I didn't keep track of it. But a long time. Long enough that even when I got back a lot had changed. [ He moves his fingers over the rune in his wrist. ]
You already know that the mage did this to me. But... [ Another piece of the confession. ] My time there. It's not just how I look, or when I seem -- different. I see and hear things all the time. Whispers and images. I was sure you weren't real when I got here. [ Hmm...anyway. ]
The mage told me to end it. So...I did, I thought. But it's not over. When I go home, I have to finish what I started. We have to. And I'm going to do anything I can to bring you back so we can. [ The parts that Viktor needs to know, he thinks, are said. Because even if he had killed Viktor in that commune, Viktor hadn't really died. He was back again. In a way, at least. ]
But ultimately...yes. You died. Right there in the Council Room because anything after that wasn't you. [ But, he also wants to make something - one thing - painfully clear. ]
Viktor, I want you to understand something. I would do anything to keep you alive and by my side. Anything. [ Including the things he did already. He doesn't think he needs to repeat them. ]
I would do anything to have you back because that's the only thing I've wanted and I was too caught up in everything to realize it while you were alive. But the thought of a world without you was unbearable. And I guess part of me knew I could deal with a you who was angry at me rather than no you at all.
[ There's something else on the tip of his tongue, the words linger. But he wants to give Viktor a chance to hear him. A chance to reject him. ]
Edited 2025-04-10 03:01 (UTC)
Jayce... [ It's so much and Viktor can see the conviction and pain in Jayce's eyes, his expression, it's unlike anything he's ever seen before if he's being honest, and it terrifies him. He doesn't understand it, for once, he doesn't understand Jayce's reasoning or conviction at all. Or, well, perhaps he does in a way. Of course, he had saved the other man's life, saved him from the ledge that he was so convinced of stepping off from. But that isn't the only reason, and Viktor is still trying to parse it together. There are so many things he wants to discuss, the voices and visions Jayce sees, the effects their work was having on Zaun. But right now he needs to understand Jayce and his reasoning for doing everything he says he has done in the future. He finally gets up from his seat and walks towards the other, wobbling ever so slightly as he adjusts to his new brace.
But why? It's the only question plaguing his mind since this conversation started. Why go through all of this? Why him? Why any of it?? When Jayce could have been content with someone like Mel Medarda? Another pause, another step towards the other. ] You say that it's unbearable without me, but you were never in the lab after you were put on the Council. [ You left me alone to pick up the pieces of our dream. While you tried to appease everyone around you. It is the unspoken words that hang in between them. ]
I don't understand, Jayce. [ A pause as he finally looks back at Jayce. ] Why would you do all of this...for me? I-I am certain that you and Ms. Medarda would have been perfectly fine and content with one another.
[ Why not just forget him then? Is the unspoken statement that hangs in the air between them. Their relationship had just begun to blossom from the point of Viktor's arrival here. He couldn't understand why Jayce would be so adamant with him of all people. He was nothing special, just a cripple from the Undercity, sallow skin, crooked spine, dreadful eyebags, closed off to a fault and difficult at times too, not to mention a leg that didn't work. He was everything people would not find desirable, something to be discarded, a lost cause with a ticking clock counting down his remaining days. Then there was Mel Medarda, a shining beacon of confidence, perfection, and life. She could have given Jayce everything he needed and more. So...why? Why did he persist? ] Why me?
[ He hates how small his voice sounds, how his body curls in on itself as he stands before the other, his eyes looking anywhere but at Jayce. ]
But why? It's the only question plaguing his mind since this conversation started. Why go through all of this? Why him? Why any of it?? When Jayce could have been content with someone like Mel Medarda? Another pause, another step towards the other. ] You say that it's unbearable without me, but you were never in the lab after you were put on the Council. [ You left me alone to pick up the pieces of our dream. While you tried to appease everyone around you. It is the unspoken words that hang in between them. ]
I don't understand, Jayce. [ A pause as he finally looks back at Jayce. ] Why would you do all of this...for me? I-I am certain that you and Ms. Medarda would have been perfectly fine and content with one another.
[ Why not just forget him then? Is the unspoken statement that hangs in the air between them. Their relationship had just begun to blossom from the point of Viktor's arrival here. He couldn't understand why Jayce would be so adamant with him of all people. He was nothing special, just a cripple from the Undercity, sallow skin, crooked spine, dreadful eyebags, closed off to a fault and difficult at times too, not to mention a leg that didn't work. He was everything people would not find desirable, something to be discarded, a lost cause with a ticking clock counting down his remaining days. Then there was Mel Medarda, a shining beacon of confidence, perfection, and life. She could have given Jayce everything he needed and more. So...why? Why did he persist? ] Why me?
[ He hates how small his voice sounds, how his body curls in on itself as he stands before the other, his eyes looking anywhere but at Jayce. ]
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