#well had Viktor asked earlier would jayce have said yes?

[thewistlingbadger]

I'm always going to wonder if Viktor asked him to stop what they were doing, abandon the dream, follow a new path, would Jayce have agreed?

[pinkthick]

A Nocturne in Melody

Pairing: Vampire!Viktor x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 9,405(around 30 minutes reading time?)

Summary: Jayce winced, his mouth opening, then closing as he struggled to find the right words. But nothing he could say seemed enough. Finally, he just shook his head. “No, Viktor, it’s not like that. You know it isn’t.”

Warnings: None(?) and dw it doesn’t contain spoilers

Masterlist:A Nocturne in Melody

Part 3

As you both made your way home, the gentle clinking of your cane on the stone pavement echoed through the emptying streets, the rhythm almost soothing beside Viktor’s soft steps. People were still filtering out from the party, making their way through the streets back to their homes, but it felt like they were just background to the two of you. Every so often, Viktor’s gaze would drift to your hand, where the ring now sat comfortably, as though it had always belonged there. Jayce had been ecstatic when he saw it earlier, and Viktor had turned a little pink under his friend’s enthusiastic congratulations.

Jayce had laughed, saying, “I can’t believe you finally did it! I thought you’d have changed your mind after your first try.” He’d paused, a knowing smile lighting up his face as he winked at you.

“What does that mean?” you’d asked, amusement thick in your voice as Viktor fidgeted beside you, looking anywhere but at you and Jayce.

Jayce leaned in with a grin, whispering in a voice that wasn’t quiet at all, “He’s had that ring for ages. I didn’t think he’d ever get around to it.”

“Jayce,” Viktor muttered, clearly embarrassed. “That’s… I just didn’t have the right moment before.”

You’d laughed, the sound bubbling out of you despite Viktor’s obvious discomfort. “I think it’s adorable,” you said, watching as his blush deepened. He was embarrassed, yes, but he was also so deeply content. You could tell by the way his fingers tightened slightly around yours, holding you close.

Now, as you walked together down the cobblestone streets, Viktor finally seemed to recover his voice. “I don’t know if I should find it funny or not,” he muttered, glancing at you, his brow raised.

“Well,” you teased, grinning, “it’s not funny, exactly. You were really stressed about it.”

He scoffed lightly, his mouth twitching in a faint, sheepish smile. “Yes…yes, all right, I was. Terrified, if you must know.”

Just then, a soft drizzle began to fall, each raindrop catching the city lights, creating a mesmerizing shimmer that reflected in Viktor’s crimson eyes. “Oh, wonderful,” he sighed, though his smile remained. “Just our luck.”

You grinned, unfazed by the rain as you adjusted your grip on your cane, taking a moment to steady yourself. “Hey, we’re out here on a beautiful night, newly engaged, with a story Jayce will probably tell at every future party. It’s not so bad.”

He shook his head with a laugh, his hair starting to dampen in the drizzle, a few stray strands clinging to his forehead. The rain began to pick up, transforming from a drizzle into a steady patter, soaking through your clothes as you both looked around for cover. Viktor instinctively stepped closer to shield you, though his slight frame wasn’t much help against the increasing rain.

“Should we make a dash for it?” he asked, glancing down the street that led to your apartment. “I mean…a brisk walk,” he corrected quickly, noticing your glance toward your leg.

You laughed, resting a hand on his shoulder. “I think we can manage. But let’s take our time; I don’t want to slip and end up with a second broken leg.”

Viktor laughed, glancing down at the puddles forming on the sidewalk. “I suppose I wouldn’t want that either.” He extended an arm, letting a few raindrops gather on his palm as if the rain were a strange curiosity. “Funny how things can be so beautiful even in chaos,” he murmured, his gaze distant for a moment before he looked back at you, eyes warm.

You smiled, leaning against him as you both continued at a slower pace, the rain soaking through your clothes but neither of you seeming to mind. It felt peaceful, almost surreal, to be here together, walking under the rain with nothing but the steady rhythm of your steps and the occasional splash of puddles filling the silence. The city seemed quieter now, like it was granting you this moment of serenity, an unexpected gift after everything you’d been through.

“Remember when we used to sneak out as kids?” Viktor’s voice broke the quiet, his tone laced with nostalgia. “Those nights when we’d wander the Undercity until dawn, and then Madame Meredith would yell at us when we’d come back. ”

You nodded, the memory bringing warmth to your chest. “She wasn’t so bad, she did care about us.”

“Probably, but I was still scared of her.” He smiled softly, his fingers brushing against yours as he linked them together, and you felt a shiver run through you — not from the cold, but from the intimacy of the gesture. “I’d give anything to go back to those days… but then, we wouldn’t be here now,” he added, glancing down at the ring on your finger, his expression a mixture of joy and awe.

Before you could respond, a cold drop of rain splashed right onto your nose. You glanced up, squinting as the night sky began to darken more and a torrential rain began to fall. “Are you sure you want to keep walking in the rain?” he teased, a small smirk playing at his lips.

“It’s only a little rain,” you replied, shrugging.

“Only a little rain,” he mocked you, chuckling under his breath as he came close to you, shaking his head in mock defeat. Before you could argue, he surprised you by slipping one arm beneath your knees, the other around your back, and lifting you up in one fluid motion.

“Viktor!” you gasped, your hands automatically reaching up to wrap around his neck as he held you with a surprising ease and strength you hadn’t expected. He grinned, barely winded, and started to move faster, carrying you with determination under the awning of a nearby building.

“Had to keep you from turning into a complete puddle,” he said, setting you down gently as you both laughed. The rain continued to beat down heavily around you, but here, beneath the roof, you were shielded — mostly.

It was only then you noticed the way Viktor was looking at you, his gaze lingering as he took you in, his eyes tracing the way your dress clung to your figure, the fabric soaked and outlining your shape with a teasing, almost ethereal quality. His eyes darkened slightly, his usual reserve breaking down under the weight of the evening and the sight of you. You felt a spark race through you at his gaze — it was a look you hadn’t seen from him before, not with this intensity, and it sent a shiver of anticipation through you.

“Maybe I shouldn’t have pulled you out of the rain after all,” he murmured, his voice a little rougher than usual, his gaze never leaving you.

You gave a half-laugh, half-sigh, the tension thickening between you. “You seemed worried just moments ago,” you replied softly.

He reached up, his fingers brushing a strand of hair from your face as he stepped in closer, his hand coming to rest gently on your head, almost protectively. He leaned in, his lips hovering inches from yours, his breath warm against your skin. And then, he closed the gap, his mouth finding yours in a kiss that held nothing back. It was deep and intense, his lips pressing against yours with a new kind of urgency, and you could feel his hands anchoring you, one cupping the back of your head, the other on your waist, holding you firmly as he leaned you back against the wall.

The warmth of his touch, and the strength of his grip left you breathless, caught off guard by how deeply he was kissing you. You felt yourself give in, melting into his touch, and his lips parted against yours, deepening the kiss as if he was trying to savor every second of it. You gasped, your fingers tangling in his hair as he pressed closer, the coolness of his hand on your waist in sharp contrast to the warmth of his kiss.

Your hands slid down, gripping the lapels of his coat, holding onto him as he kissed you with a passion that left you dizzy. You could feel the way his body responded to yours, the tension in his muscles as he held himself against you, the feeling of his heartbeat echoing your own. He pulled back slightly and took a deep breath, as if gathering himself, then leaned in, trailing kisses along your jawline, down to your neck. His lips were warm against your skin, each kiss soft yet lingering. His voice, low and teasing, made a shiver run through you. “And to think,” he murmured between each kiss, “you really wanted to break up with me tonight.” He chuckled softly, his tone gentle but knowing. “I wouldn’t have let you either way.”

A flush crept up your cheeks, partly at the thought of how close you’d come to pushing him away, partly because of the way he was looking at you now — intense, entirely focused. He tilted his head slightly, his lips brushing against the sensitive skin on your neck in a way that left your heart racing. His hand slid around your waist, pulling you against him, and you couldn’t help but let out a soft laugh, feeling a mix of excitement and embarrassment.

“Viktor…” you started, a little unsteady, but he didn’t let you finish. His mouth was at your neck again, pressing a slow, deliberate kiss just below your ear, and his knee slid between your legs with an ease that made you weak. That familiar, insistent pressure sent a spark through you, and you shot him a knowing, playful glare.

“Oh, so you’re using that move now?” you managed, the words barely audible as he continued his trail of kisses.

He gave a half-smile, clearly amused, but didn’t answer, his hands slipping lower, tracing along your sides, pressing you back against the wall. His fingers skimmed the curve of your waist, moving with a confidence and sureness that was new but not unwelcome. You felt his hand starting to drift downward, his fingers barely brushing against you, and your breath caught in your throat. You caught his hand, and he thankfully stopped, pulling back slightly, and for a moment you both just looked at each other, caught in a mix of surprise and something much more intense.

You could see the glint of amusement in his eyes, and his voice was soft, almost teasing. “Let me work.”

“Oh, I’ll let you work… when we’re not in public.” You raised an eyebrow, trying to keep your tone stern, but the effect was spoiled by the smile pulling at your lips.

He scoffed, clearly unbothered, but he didn’t stop. His hand continued to slide down, his touch sending a thrill through you, and he seemed completely unfazed by your attempt to keep things under control. His fingers grazed along the small of your back, lingering just enough to make your heart pound. His other hand traced slow circles against your hip, his touch maddeningly light, as if testing the boundaries of your resolve.

You could feel your face growing warmer, a mix of amusement and slight embarrassment, but he only gave you a slight smirk, his gaze intent and unwavering. “You’re blushing,” he murmured, almost teasingly, as if he knew exactly what he was doing.

“I wonder why?” you managed to stammer, though the words came out weaker than you’d intended.

But Viktor only chuckled, leaning in, and for a second you thought he was about to kiss you again. Just then, the unmistakable sound of voices drifted into your haven beneath the awning. A few people rushed over to join you, seeking refuge from the downpour, their laughter and chatter filling the small space with an energy that felt intrusive.

Startled, you pulled back slightly, the flush of the moment still lingering, and Viktor straightened up, glancing around. A couple of people shot curious looks in your direction, and you felt a rush of embarrassment, realizing that the both of you had been far more absorbed in each other than you’d realized. Viktor, too, looked a bit sheepish, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. He cleared his throat, clearly trying to compose himself, and his hand found yours, lacing his fingers with yours in a quiet, grounding gesture.

—

Jayce adjusted the hextech core, watching as its soft blue glow pulsed steadily. He wasn’t particularly focused on the task, though, and he could sense Mel’s eyes on him, her presence quiet but intense. She hadn’t said much all morning, but Jayce could feel the tension building, the way she was holding herself back, waiting for the right moment to speak. Finally, after a long pause, she stepped forward.

“We’ve already talked about it,” Jayce said, not even looking up, trying to preempt the conversation he could feel brewing.

“But I feel like it wasn’t really discussed.” Her voice was steady, but there was a sharp edge to it, a tension that she couldn’t quite hide. “There’s more to this than we admitted to, Jayce.”

Jayce sighed, turning to face her, knowing exactly where this was going. He met her gaze, seeing the concern etched in her expression. “Mel,” he started, his tone soft but firm. “You let Viktor live. You can’t just feel bad about it now.”

Mel crossed her arms, shifting her weight slightly as she continued to stare him down. “Jayce, I let him live because of you.” Her words came out quieter, almost as if she were confessing something to herself. “But I’m not sure now it was the right thing to do. I’ve bent rules too much already, and it was a decision that went against every protocol we have.”

“Viktor isn’t a threat,” Jayce replied, his voice steady as he defended his friend. “He’s been adapting, learning to control it. He hasn’t hurt anyone.”

“Yet,” Mel said, her eyes darkening with the weight of the words. “He’s in control now, Jayce. But we have no idea how long that will last. This wasn’t supposed to happen. The protocols were clear: any transformed vampire is to be eliminated to avoid any further incidents.”

Jayce’s jaw tightened, a mixture of anger and frustration bubbling up. “He’s not like that vampire who attacked the performance hall, Mel. He didn’t choose this, and he’s fighting every day to stay the person he was.”

Mel shook her head, her expression grim. “You’re right; he didn’t choose this. But that doesn’t mean he’s not dangerous. Did you ever stop to wonder why the vampire who turned him did it in the first place?”

Jayce opened his mouth to respond, but she continued before he could say a word. “That vampire didn’t attack out of some rogue impulse. He was grieving, Jayce. He lost his partner, and that’s why he lashed out. That’s why he turned Viktor — it was an act of defiance, an act of desperation.”

Jayce’s face fell slightly as the weight of her words settled in. He hadn’t thought about it that way, hadn’t considered the motivations behind the attack. He’d been so focused on Viktor, on protecting him, that he hadn’t given much thought to the vampire who had set this all into motion.

“What happens when she dies, Jayce?” Mel asked, her voice softer now, almost gentle. “Or when you die? You know that’s inevitable.”

Jayce swallowed, his gaze dropping. The implications of her words were clear, hitting him harder than he’d expected. Viktor had found a measure of peace with his new existence, but it was an uneasy one, built on the fragile foundation of the people he cared about still being there, still grounding him.

“I just fear that Viktor won’t accept that,” Mel continued. “He’s still clinging to the remnants of his old life, of the people who matter to him. But we’re all… mortal. There will come a day when he’ll be left alone, and then what?”

Jayce rubbed a hand over his face, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. “I don’t have all the answers, Mel. But I know Viktor. He’s stronger than you think.”

“He’s stronger physically,” Mel replied, her voice cutting through the air like a blade. “But emotionally? Jayce, this kind of life requires a certain detachment, a willingness to let go. I’ve seen how he looks at her, how he’s desperately trying to keep things the same.”

Jayce bit his lip, feeling a pang of guilt. Viktor had only just found happiness, had finally started to build a life for himself. And now, because of a choice he hadn’t even made, he was being forced to confront a future that seemed both endless and empty.

“Mel, he loves her,” Jayce said quietly, almost as if he was trying to convince himself as much as her. “And I can’t fault him for that.”

Mel’s expression softened, but there was still a sadness in her eyes, a look that spoke of hard-earned wisdom and harsh truths. “I know he loves her, Jayce. But love doesn’t change what he’s become. It doesn’t change what he’ll have to face when the people he loves start to slip away, one by one.”

They stood in silence, the only sound the faint hum of the hextech core still glowing in the background. Jayce’s mind raced, grappling with the enormity of what Viktor’s future might hold.

After a moment, Mel spoke again, her voice barely above a whisper. “I know this is hard for you. You care about him, and so do I. But we can’t ignore the reality of his situation just because it’s painful to face.”

Jayce’s gaze was distant, fixed on the core’s glow, but his mind was far away, lost in memories of Viktor — the friend he’d known for so many years, the brilliant mind who had dreamed of making the world a better place, the man who had fought so hard against his own failing body. And now, even with his body stronger than ever, Viktor was fighting a different battle, one against time, against loss, against the inevitability of watching the people he loved slip away.

“I know,” Jayce finally murmured, his voice tinged with sadness. “I know. But I can’t turn my back on him. Not now, not ever.”

Mel reached out, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. “No one’s asking you to, Jayce. But we have to be realistic about what lies ahead, for his sake as much as ours.”

Jayce nodded slowly, the weight of her words settling heavily on him. It was a hard truth to face, but he couldn’t ignore it any longer. “I know..you’re right.”

Just then Viktor entered the lab, his footsteps echoing slightly in the quiet space. He had intended to come in early to get a jump start on the hextech work, and both Mel and Jayce looked up, visibly startled to see him.

“Viktor,” Jayce said, quickly composing himself, though a flicker of something — guilt, perhaps — lingered in his eyes. “I thought you weren’t coming today.”

“I didn’t plan to,” Viktor replied, a casual shrug masking the tightness in his chest. “But she had to go to rehearsal, and I didn’t want to waste precious time when I could be working on our project.”

Mel and Jayce exchanged a look, subtle but telling. Viktor noted it with a sharp eye, aware that they didn’t know if he’d overheard their discussion moments ago. Truthfully, he had — every word. The conversation echoed in his mind, and although he was trying to brush it off, an undercurrent of irritation simmered beneath his calm facade.

Jayce cleared his throat, attempting to steer the conversation into safer territory. “So…I’m sorry if I embarrassed you last night” There was an awkward pause, and then he added, “but congratulations on the engagement.”

Viktor’s lips lifted in a small smile, though his tone was measured. “Thank you, Jayce.” He shifted his gaze to Mel, who met his eyes briefly before looking away. A flicker of something — doubt, perhaps? — crossed her face, but Viktor pressed on. “It’s funny. I didn’t expect things to fall into place so well. But here we are.”

The pleasant words felt somewhat hollow as he said them. While he was genuinely happy, the recent conversation he’d overheard left him feeling as if his happiness was somehow misplaced, or at the very least questioned. Still, he wasn’t here to argue or defend his choices. He had work to do, and his mind latched onto the hextech project as a welcome distraction.

He moved toward the table, where their equipment lay neatly arranged. “Shall we get started?” he suggested, and Jayce nodded, visibly relieved to focus on their work.

For the past week, they had been toying with ideas for hextech applications, primarily in agriculture. If they could enhance plants, increase growth, yield, and resilience, then the possibilities were endless. But, in Viktor’s mind, the true potential lay not in plants but in humanity itself. The idea of using hextech to augment humans, to overcome their limitations, had been consuming him, gnawing at the edges of his mind. Jayce, however, had been more cautious, even resistant.

Jayce shot Mel a meaningful look as she lingered by the lab bench, and she seemed to take the hint. “I’ll leave you two to it,” she said, though her tone was wary. Viktor nodded politely, watching as she exited the lab, the door clicking shut behind her. The second she was gone, he felt the tension ease, though Jayce seemed a bit uneasy still.

“So,” Viktor said, rolling up his sleeves and setting his focus on the machinery. “How has the hextech’s efficiency been, now that we’ve increased the crystal output? Any issues with stability?”

Jayce shrugged, adjusting his own equipment. “It’s stable, but we’re still running into limits with the plant augmentation. I think we’re close to something big, though.”

Viktor nodded, though his attention was elsewhere. He had already calculated the maximum efficiency with plants and knew it was far from reaching hextech’s full potential. “If we can optimize the output further,” he began, his tone nonchalant, “we might be able to do more than just enhance crops.” He glanced at Jayce, letting the idea linger in the air, watching his friend’s reaction.

Jayce immediately frowned, catching Viktor’s implication. “Viktor, we’ve discussed this,” he said, his voice tinged with impatience. “Hextech wasn’t meant for human enhancement.”

Viktor let out a quiet sigh, though his expression remained composed. “I know, Jayce. You’ve made that point clear.” He picked up a crystal, studying its facets as he spoke. “But there’s so much untapped potential here. You’ve seen it too.”

“We agreed to focus on agriculture,” Jayce replied firmly, though Viktor noted a flicker of doubt in his eyes. “There’s a lot we can do within those boundaries.”

“For now, perhaps,” Viktor said smoothly, turning back to the table. “But boundaries are meant to be pushed. Why limit ourselves when we could be transforming lives?” He kept his tone light, as if merely musing aloud, but he saw Jayce’s jaw tighten slightly.

Enhancing humans had been his true vision for hextech all along, a vision he knew was shared to some extent by Jayce, even if his friend was reluctant to admit it. Jayce sighed, leaning back and crossing his arms, clearly bracing himself for another debate. “Yes, but there’s a line, Viktor. A line we can’t just cross without thinking of the consequences.”

“Consequences,” Viktor echoed, his voice barely hiding his frustration. “Jayce, I’ve spent most of my life facing consequences I had no control over. My own body was a prison, and now, we have the means to set people like me free.”

Jayce hesitated, caught between sympathy and caution. “I understand that. But this technology… it’s unpredictable. We don’t fully understand the risks yet.”

Viktor’s gaze darkened slightly as he held Jayce’s gaze. “And yet, you’re willing to let fear hold us back? I thought you believed in progress.”

Jayce ran a hand through his hair, clearly struggling to find the right words. “I do, Viktor. But progress without restraint is dangerous. Just look at what happened with —”

He stopped, catching himself, but Viktor’s lips curved into a tight smile. He knew exactly where Jayce’s mind had gone. “Are we really going to let fear dictate what we can achieve?” Viktor asked, his tone almost mocking. “Or is it just that you don’t trust me with this power?”

Jayce stiffened, his eyes narrowing slightly. “You know that’s not it.”

“Do I?” Viktor’s voice was soft, but the challenge was clear. He leaned in, lowering his voice. “Because from what I overheard earlier, it seems like trust might be in short supply.”

Jayce froze, his face paling slightly as the words sank in. He glanced toward the door, as if expecting Mel to reappear at any moment. “Viktor, I…”

“Don’t worry, I’m not upset.” His smile was sharp, edged with a hint of bitterness. “I know that some people are always going to see me as a threat.”

“That’s not—look, I’m sorry.”

“You weren’t sorry moments ago,” Viktor replied, his voice barely above a whisper, thick with the hurt he was holding back. He straightened, crossing his arms over his chest, his gaze burning with frustration and pain.

Jayce took a shaky breath, feeling the weight of Viktor’s words press down on him. “It’s not that simple,” he tried, almost pleadingly. “There are things… situations I can’t control, Viktor. People I have to answer to.”

Viktor’s eyes flashed. “And I’m one of those situations, am I not?” He bit the words out, a bitterness to his tone that Jayce had rarely heard. “A ‘situation’ that you have to manage, keep in check. Is that all I am to you now, Jayce?”

Jayce winced, his mouth opening, then closing as he struggled to find the right words. But nothing he could say seemed enough. Finally, he just shook his head. “No, Viktor, it’s not like that. You know it isn’t.”

Viktor scoffed, and a hollow laugh escaped him, sharp and filled with a bitterness that left Jayce feeling like he’d been punched in the gut. “Don’t I? Because from where I stand, it’s starting to look like that’s exactly how you see me.” He looked down, clenching his fists, his body taut with barely contained frustration. “After everything we’ve been through together… you’re willing to let doubt poison everything between us?”

“It’s not doubt,” Jayce replied, his voice trembling slightly. “It’s fear. Not of you, Viktor — but for you. This isn’t just about us, or Mel, or even hextech. It’s… complicated.”

“Oh, yes. Complicated,” Viktor said, a bitter edge in his voice as he echoed the word, throwing it back at Jayce like an accusation. “The perfect excuse when you don’t want to face the truth.” He shook his head, glancing away as if to steady himself. “I always believed we shared the same vision, Jayce. I thought you saw me, truly saw me. And yet here you are, talking to me like I’m some… anomaly.”

Jayce took a step forward, his hands outstretched in a desperate attempt to reach across the gulf that had grown between them. “Viktor, please, don’t misunderstand me. This isn’t easy for me either. I’m just trying to protect you.”

Viktor’s face crumpled, his eyes filling with a deep sorrow that made Jayce’s heart ache. “Protect me?” he whispered, shaking his head. “From what, exactly? From the very thing that has given me a new chance at life?” He looked down, his voice growing softer, more broken. “I thought you trusted me, Jayce. I thought… I thought you saw my worth beyond the label others have slapped on me.”

“I do trust you,” Jayce insisted, but his voice wavered. “It’s just… the council, Mel — they’re all waiting for a mistake. If I lose control of this situation—”

“There you go again,” Viktor interrupted, his tone hardening. “Calling me a ‘situation.’ As if I’m some dangerous variable, something to be managed rather than… someone you’ve known for years.” He met Jayce’s gaze, eyes blazing with intensity, and Jayce could see the tears welling there, a storm of emotions that Viktor was struggling to contain. “I’m not your project, Jayce. I’m your friend.”

Jayce fell silent, the weight of Viktor’s words settling heavily over him. For a moment, he was transported back to the early days, when they were just two young men with a shared vision and a boundless hope for what hextech could become. They had trusted each other implicitly, no need for words or assurances, just an unbreakable belief in one another. But now…

Viktor turned abruptly, his hand reaching for the shelf where several thick books lay stacked. He snatched one of the books—a hefty volume on plant biochemistry they’d been using for their latest hextech research—and thrust it forward, shoving it hard into Jayce’s chest.

“Here,” Viktor spat, his voice laced with a bitterness Jayce had never heard from him before. “Please, by all means, continue your precious research on plants.”

The force of the book hitting his chest knocked Jayce a step back, and he instinctively caught it, staring down at the leather-bound cover. He looked up to see Viktor’s eyes gleaming, his pupils narrowed, his fangs bared in a flash of anger that felt as raw as it did sudden.

Jayce took a shaky step back, swallowing as he tried to process the sight before him, this version of Viktor he had rarely seen. “What…?” he stammered, voice barely a whisper. “What’s gotten into you, Viktor?”

Viktor’s laughter was harsh, echoing through the lab with a coldness that made Jayce’s skin prickle. “What’s gotten into me?” he repeated, his voice full of mockery. “What indeed, Jayce. I’m the same person I’ve always been… only now, apparently, you’re afraid of me.”

Jayce instinctively flinched, a flash of fear crossing his face as he processed the words. He hadn’t meant to react that way—it was just that seeing Viktor like this, seeing the fangs, the fury, everything he’d tried so hard to ignore or downplay… It was all hitting him at once, too much to take in.

Viktor caught the flinch and scoffed, a bitter, humorless sound that filled the space between them. “Ah,” he said, voice dripping with disdain, “so now you think I’m some wild animal, about to sink my fangs into you?”

Jayce’s eyes widened, his mouth opening as he struggled to find the words to deny it. “Viktor… no, that’s not—”

“Don’t lie to me, Jayce,” Viktor interrupted, his voice low and venomous. He took a step forward, and Jayce couldn’t help but tense, his pulse racing. Viktor’s eyes, normally filled with a quiet, reserved kindness, were now sharp and cutting, filled with a bitterness that felt like it could pierce right through him. “You’ve made it perfectly clear how you feel about me,” Viktor continued, his voice dropping to a whisper. “I’m a ‘situation’ to you now, an obstacle. An inconvenience.”

“Viktor, please,” Jayce tried, his voice breaking. “It’s not… it’s not like that. I never wanted you to feel like—”

“Oh, save it,” Viktor spat, cutting him off again. “I don’t need your pity, Jayce. I don’t need your empty reassurances.” He clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white. “Do you have any idea how it feels to stand here, knowing that the one person I trusted, the one person I thought understood me, is terrified of what I’ve become?”

Jayce shook his head, feeling helpless, trapped in a moment he couldn’t control. “It’s not fear, Viktor,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m worried for you, for what this might do to you.”

Viktor let out a hollow laugh, shaking his head as he looked away, the bitterness in his expression deepening. “Worried for me,” he echoed, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “How noble of you, Jayce. How utterly self-sacrificing.” He took a deep breath, his shoulders shaking with barely-contained rage. “You’re so blinded by your need to control everything, to manage everything, that you can’t even see me anymore.”

Jayce felt his heart sink, his throat tightening with a mix of guilt and shame. “Viktor, please,” he murmured, taking a tentative step forward. “You’re my bestfriend. I just… I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

Viktor’s eyes narrowed, and he took a step back, his expression filled with a quiet, simmering fury. “Your bestfriend?” he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. “If this is what friendship looks like, then maybe I was better off alone.”

The words hit Jayce like a punch to the gut, leaving him momentarily speechless.

Viktor shook his head, his expression hardening as he turned away. “I’m done, Jayce,” he said, his voice cold and final. “I’m done with this… with you. I’ll continue our work, but don’t expect anything more from me.” He glanced back one last time, his eyes filled with a sadness that cut deeper than any anger ever could. “Because I can’t keep doing this. Not if you’re going to look at me like I’m some kind of monster.”

And with that, Viktor turned on his heel and walked out of the lab, leaving Jayce standing there, alone, the book still clutched in his hands, the weight of Viktor’s words echoing in his mind long after he was gone.

—

The echo of the rehearsal’s last notes lingered in your mind as you walked out into the cool afternoon air. It was one of those rare afternoons where you felt both content and restless—relieved to have finished another day of practice, yet craving the quiet satisfaction of some time alone. Viktor was at the lab, probably absorbed in his work, and you knew he’d likely stay there for hours, as he usually did—you figured you could afford a leisurely detour.

The idea struck you out of nowhere: why not make something sweet, something simple that might surprise him? A cake, perhaps—something comforting that would welcome him home and, in some small way, bring both of you back to a semblance of normalcy. As you made your way to the small produce stand tucked into a side street, a faint nostalgia warmed your heart. You hadn’t baked in a long time, and somehow, the thought of it felt right tonight.

The scent of fresh fruits filled the air as you approached the stand. A soft smile tugged at your lips as you looked over the plump berries, glistening apples, and golden pears. Reaching out, you picked up a few ripe peaches, their sweet, soft smell filling your senses as you added them to your basket. Strawberries would be perfect too, you thought, absently reaching for the freshest-looking bunch.

Just as you were about to pay, a sudden commotion nearby caught your attention. The shop owner was grumbling, waving a broom at something small and dark huddled beside a stack of crates. “Stupid cat!” he muttered, shooing it away. “Get out of here, pest!”

Your heart gave a soft pang as you noticed the tiny creature—a scruffy little kitten, thin and trembling, with matted fur and wide, frightened eyes. It looked barely old enough to be away from its mother. You could see it was trying to find a safe spot, scurrying away from the broom in desperate little bursts, its tiny meows piercing the night air. You weren’t particularly planning on adopting a stray today, but you couldn’t bring yourself to ignore it.

“Wait, wait,” you said gently, putting your cane aside as you moved closer to the kitten, who had now found temporary refuge behind a barrel. The owner looked at you skeptically, his face still wrinkled with frustration.

“Miss, that thing’s a nuisance,” he said, shaking his head. “All it’ll do is scratch and bite, and it’s probably covered in fleas. Best to leave it.”

Ignoring him, you knelt slowly, keeping your voice soft as you extended a hand toward the kitten. “Hey there, little one,” you murmured, noticing how its ears perked up ever so slightly at the sound of your voice. It huddled against the wall, watching you with wide, wary eyes, as though unsure whether to trust you.

You waited a moment, letting the kitten study you, and then, very slowly, it crept forward. Inch by inch, it drew closer until, finally, it rubbed its tiny, scruffy head against your outstretched fingers. The texture of its matted fur and its bony frame under your hand made your heart ache. This little one had clearly been fending for itself for a while.

“See? Not so bad,” you murmured softly, scratching the kitten’s head as it began to purr—a soft, barely audible sound that grew louder with each gentle stroke. The shop owner huffed, clearly not pleased with your decision, but you ignored him. Pulling an old handkerchief from your bag, you carefully lifted the kitten, who looked up at you with round, trusting eyes. “Let’s get you cleaned up,” you whispered. “Can’t leave you out here all alone, can we?”

Balancing the kitten carefully against your chest, you handed the owner a few coins to pay for your fruits. He gave you a wry look, but took the money without further comment.

As you walked home, the kitten snuggled closer, its small frame warm against you. You tried to ignore the nagging thought that it might indeed have fleas or other issues, but you were already too attached to consider leaving it behind.

—

Viktor moved quickly through the halls, his thoughts still a whirlwind from the argument with Jayce. The lab was a place he’d once considered a haven—a space where he and Jayce could dream up ways to better the world, where he’d built hope from metal and gears. But now, the very air seemed to suffocate him, every moment in that place filled with painful reminders of all the trust that had unraveled.

He finally arrived at Esma’s department. The lights were dim, casting long shadows over shelves packed with vials, blueprints, and mysterious gadgets. Esma herself was seated at a table, hunched over a series of schematics. She glanced up as Viktor entered, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips.

“I hope I’m not intruding,” Viktor began, his voice quieter than usual, still tinged with lingering tension from earlier.

“Oh, Viktor—of course not.” Esma rose gracefully, her movements as smooth and fluid as always, a quiet elegance that only someone who’d lived centuries seemed to master. She gestured toward a seat opposite her. “Please, sit. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

As Viktor settled into the chair, Esma offered him a vial of blood, as was customary. He shook his head politely, a faint smile gracing his lips. “No, thank you. I’ve… already taken care of it.”

Esma raised a brow, tucking the vial back with a knowing look. “Suit yourself.” She returned her attention to her work but shot him a sideways glance. Viktor hesitated, looking down as he gathered his thoughts. “I wanted to discuss the synthetic tissues you’ve been working on,” he began, his voice low. “Have you ever… tried to revitalize them with hextech?”

Esma’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, though a small, knowing smile touched her lips. “With hextech? No… I haven’t, at least not directly,” she admitted. “I did try using Shimmer once, though.”

At the mention of Shimmer, Viktor’s curiosity flared. “Shimmer? Where did you get that?” he asked, his voice sharper than he intended.

Esma chuckled softly. “Oh, Viktor… I’ve been around long enough to know how to find what I need,” she replied, her smile hinting at the centuries of experience she carried. “And, besides,” she continued, her gaze piercing as she looked at him, “it’s not like you’re a stranger to it, either.”

Viktor felt his stomach drop. "I… I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said, though the hesitation in his voice betrayed him.

“Oh, Viktor,” Esma replied, her eyes glinting with a mix of sympathy and amusement. “I know the scent of Shimmer in someone’s blood. You can’t hide that from me.” She tilted her head slightly, observing his reaction. “I can tell it’s been a while, but it’s still there, faintly—stained in you.”

The words sank in, and Viktor felt a wave of discomfort wash over him. His mind drifted back to the time when his body had been on the verge of collapse, when his determination to continue his work had driven him to take desperate measures. Then Singed, the near-fatal deterioration, the Shimmer—it was all true. He hadn’t thought about it in so long, had pushed those memories aside, buried them under layers of focus and innovation.

Esma seemed to notice his discomfort and shifted the conversation. “Anyway, as I said, I used Shimmer on synthetic tissue once. It did bring it to life for a short period—allowed it to function almost as if it were real. But eventually, it became unstable and… well, destroyed itself.”

Viktor’s interest was piqued. “Destroyed itself?”

She nodded. “Yes. Shimmer has a volatility to it that doesn’t lend well to permanence. It’s effective, powerful even, but unreliable for sustaining life. Hextech, however…” She let the words hang in the air, her eyes gleaming with curiosity as she studied Viktor’s expression.

He nodded thoughtfully, feeling the weight of her words but unable to shake the feeling that he was on the verge of something groundbreaking. “Hypothetically, if it did work… if hextech could sustain the tissue indefinitely… it could mean…” He hesitated, the implications almost too vast to put into words.

Esma watched him carefully, her gaze sharp. “Immortality,” she finished for him, a hint of warning in her tone.

He looked down at the tissue under the microscope, his mind racing. “If we could somehow stabilize it, keep it from overloading…” His voice trailed off as Esma’s smile widened, and she leaned forward, resting her chin in her hand as she watched him intently. “You sound like a man on a mission.”

He hesitated, feeling a familiar conflict rising within him. His motivations had always been driven by a desire to improve the world, to give people a chance to live without the constraints of illness or decay. But now, with his transformation, there was a part of him that yearned for something more—a chance to unlock the secrets of longevity, to give others the gift he had inadvertently received.

“Congratulations, by the way,” she added suddenly, a sly smile on her lips.

The change in subject caught him off guard. “Sorry?”

“Your engagement,” she clarified “It’s a rare thing for one of our kind. Commitment, I mean. To a mortal.”

He rose slowly from his chair, looking down at Esma with a sharp intensity in his gaze. "If you could help me with this,” he began, each word deliberate, “it won’t be rare anymore.”

Esma’s mouth twisted into an amused smile, one eyebrow arching as if she found his words naive. “As if the council would let us,” she scoffed. “You’re dreaming, Viktor. Even if you could figure it out… they’d shut you down the moment they caught wind of it. Vampires and humans aren’t meant to mix, you know that.” She reached out, her fingertips brushing against his chest, lingering there a moment too long.

Viktor’s face hardened as he brushed her hand off, his movements sharp, almost instinctive. He forced himself to ignore the urge to push her away more aggressively. “You look so frustrated, Viktor. And I can’t blame you. A life like this isn’t for the faint of heart. You think you can create a perfect union between humans and vampires? Trust me; you’d be the first.” She tilted her head, her voice low and suggestive. “But… if you’re really that desperate, I could offer some assistance, for a price.”

“I don’t think that will be necessary.”

Esma’s smirk faltered, and she shrugged as if his rejection didn’t sting. “Fine, Viktor. If you want to go it alone, suit yourself.

He turned on his heel, not even offering her a parting word. He could feel her gaze on him as he walked out of her office, the cool, unbothered presence of someone who believed herself untouchable. But she wasn’t perfect. None of them were. Vampires, with all their power, were still bound by limitations they chose to ignore. They may have gained immortality, but they’d sacrificed so much in the process. Not to mention the hunger…

He’d thought of biting you, of sharing his immortality in the only way he could. He’d wrestled with the idea for months, tempted by the promise that you would never suffer the slow decay of time, never be at risk of slipping away from him. But he knew that turning you against your will would be unthinkable; you’d made it clear that you had no desire to live like he did, tethered to a life that could stretch into eternity with unending hunger. And even if he ignored your wishes, there was no guarantee that Piltover would allow you both to survive the decision. Mel would rally the council against him, citing every rule he had already bent, every line he had crossed. You would both be hunted—an inevitability he couldn’t ignore. So, as much as the thought crossed his mind, he kept it buried, waiting for the right moment, for a solution that didn’t involve turning you.

If Esma was going to stand by idly, and if Jayce wouldn’t support his vision, then he’d find another way. He’d always found a way, even when the odds were against him.

—

As you opened the door to your apartment, balancing the grocery bags with one arm and cradling the kitten against your chest with the other, you felt a wave of surprise. Viktor was home. The sight of him—slumped over a mess of notes and calculations spread across the table—made you pause in the doorway. One of his old canes leaned against the table, and it seemed odd to see it there, considering he no longer needed it. For a brief moment, you wondered why he’d brought it out.

He looked up as you entered, narrowing his eyes at the small bundle in your arms before his gaze shifted to meet yours. A slight arch of his brow was the only clue to his thoughts as he set down his pen and pushed back from the table.

“I didn’t expect you to be home so early,” you said, smiling as you balanced yourself with the cane, holding the kitten protectively. “Did something happen?”

“Just needed a break from the lab,” he replied, his eyes flicking back down to the kitten. Viktor’s expression turned wary, like he was assessing whether the little creature was a threat to his carefully organized world. He raised an eyebrow and crossed his arms, making it clear he had no intention of humoring you.

You knew exactly what he was about to say, and a small laugh escaped you even before he spoke.

“I hope you know,” he said, his voice dry and measured as he approached to take the bags from you, “this—” he gestured to the kitten with a sweep of his hand, “is not staying with us.”

As he turned toward the kitchen, you protested, quickening your pace to keep up with him. “But, Viktor—”

“No,” he replied firmly, without even looking back. His tone was clipped, like he was trying to cut the conversation short before it could escalate.

“But it’s just a little kitty,” you tried again, voice edging toward pleading. You caught up to him as he set the bags down on the counter, only for him to turn his attention fully to unpacking, meticulously ignoring you and the kitten in your arms.

“Nope,” he said resolutely, taking out the peaches and strawberries you’d bought. “It smells like garbage, and it probably has fleas.”

You opened your mouth to counter his argument, but he was focused, jaw set in that stubborn way you’d seen a thousand times before. Clearly, he was already committed to resisting the little stray, which made you all the more determined to convince him otherwise.

“I wanted to get shampoo for it and give it a bath before you got back,” you said softly. You could see the tiniest flicker of doubt cross his features, and for a split second, you felt victory within reach. All you needed was for him to look at the kitten, to really look at it. He’d give in; you knew he would. But he pointedly refused to glance in your direction, focusing instead on putting away the groceries with exaggerated precision, organizing everything as if to make a statement. You saw right through him—if he looked, he’d crumble.

The kitten mewed quietly, and you felt it shift in your arms, tiny paws kneading your chest as it settled in. You tried another angle, hoping to tug at his heartstrings just a little. “Viktor,” you murmured, taking a careful step forward. “It’s been through so much, and it’s all alone.” The kitten’s small, pleading gaze, paired with its soft purr, felt like the final weapon in your arsenal.

Still, Viktor held firm, refusing to look at you, though the tension in his shoulders betrayed him. “It’s not staying,” he muttered under his breath, his voice holding the slightest waver. You were almost certain you’d won until you took one step too far, misjudging your footing as your cane slipped slightly, and you nearly stumbled.

In an instant, Viktor’s entire demeanor shifted. He moved toward you, one hand steadying your arm while the other cupped your shoulder. Concern flickered across his features as he kept you steady, his eyes softening as he took in your unsteady stance. That was all the kitten needed. It wriggled between the two of you, nudging Viktor’s chest with its tiny head as it settled, looking up at him with round, hopeful eyes. You barely contained a smile as Viktor’s gaze shifted down at last, his resistance crumbling as he took in the sight of the little creature nestled so trustingly against him.

“It’s cute, isn’t it?” you said softly, watching his expression carefully.

Viktor’s jaw tightened, and he tried to avert his eyes, but you could see the faintest flicker of softness there. His fingers twitched, as though he was fighting the urge to reach out and pet the kitten. “I’m…not getting attached to this,” he said, though even he didn’t seem convinced by his own words.

“Just look at it,” you urged gently. The kitten mewed again, reaching out one tiny paw toward him, and you could practically see his resolve shatter.

Finally, with a sigh of defeat, Viktor reached out, letting the kitten bat playfully at his fingers. It was hesitant at first, but his expression softened further with every gentle tap of its tiny paw. “Okay, fine,” he muttered, clearly already regretting his decision. “But if it’s staying, we’re taking it to the vet first thing in the morning. You might’ve already caught some disease from it.”

“It’s just a kitten, Viktor!” you laughed, thrilled he’d given in. He rolled his eyes, trying to hold onto a last shred of resistance.

“Yes, a kitten that probably picked up every germ imaginable from the streets,” he replied dryly. “So, yes, you can give it a bath, but for the love of God, make sure it’s…decontaminated first.”

You leaned in and kissed him quickly, barely able to contain your excitement. He softened under your touch, though he tried to keep his firm exterior, scoffing as he watched you disappear into the bathroom with the kitten in your arms.

“Viktor,” you called from the doorway, holding the kitten against your shoulder. “I don’t actually have shampoo for kittens...or flea shampoo.” You gestured to the little creature, who looked up at Viktor with an innocent gaze that only amplified its cuteness.

He sighed, glancing around the apartment like he was making a mental list of everything he’d need to do now. “Of course. Why would we have any?” He rubbed his forehead as if this was the biggest inconvenience he’d faced all week, but there was a small smile tugging at his lips. His expression softened further as he saw you shifting uncomfortably, resting more weight on your good leg. “I’ll go get it. In the meantime, don’t let it destroy something,”

You gave him a grateful smile, and as he turned to grab his coat, you glanced down at the kitten, which looked up at you with wide eyes. “Now what are we going to call you?” you murmured, scratching under its chin.

Viktor paused in the doorway, seemingly lost in thought. “If it’s going to stay, it needs a proper name. How about…Hippocrates?” His lips twitched, a hint of mischief in his eyes. “After all, it’s a sickly little thing.”

You laughed, glancing back at the kitten. “Hippocrates, huh?” you repeated, testing the name aloud. The kitten meowed softly, its head tilting slightly as if considering the suggestion.

“Or perhaps Galen, if that suits it better,” Viktor continued, watching you both. His teasing softened into something almost affectionate as he watched you gently stroke the kitten’s head.

“Galen?” you repeated, raising an eyebrow. “We’re not naming a kitten after a physicist or medic, Viktor.”

He shrugged, trying to act indifferent. “It’s fitting. Cats are clever. Plus, he’d have a namesake in someone who actually contributed something.”

“Of course you’d think that,” you teased. “But I think something softer might be better. He’s just a baby, after all.” The kitten nestled against your chest, and, overcome with affection, you leaned down to kiss it. But Viktor’s hand shot out, stopping you mid-gesture. “Oh my God, please don’t.” His voice was filled with exasperation, but his smile gave him away. “Just—no, not until it’s had a bath.”

Rolling your eyes with a smirk, you relented. “Fine, fine.” You set the kitten down for a moment, rummaging in the kitchen for a bowl. You filled it with a bit of milk, placing it carefully on the floor for the kitten. As it took a few tentative laps, you watched with an amused smile. “See? Perfectly harmless.”

But Viktor only shook his head and muttered, “Harmless until it brings half the city’s fleas into our home.”

After he left for the store, you found yourself alone with it, who had finished the milk and was now wandering around the apartment, taking in its new surroundings with wide, curious eyes. You chuckled as it stumbled over its own feet, scurrying from one corner of the room to the other. It barely stayed still for a second before darting off in a different direction, its tiny paws pattering across the floor.

It was small but feisty, its little legs carrying it in wild circles across the floor, making you laugh as it zigzagged around the table legs and even launched itself up onto the couch.

Soon, though, its darting turned into a full-on sprint. The kitten, barely the size of one of Viktor’s books, dashed around the room, bouncing off furniture in a flurry of energy. It dashed toward the corner, where Viktor’s old cane rested against the wall by the table. Just as you turned to stop it, the kitten collided with the cane in a sudden burst of motion, and you winced, hoping it hadn’t hurt itself. But the kitten sprang back unharmed, while the cane wobbled, tilted, and then fell to the floor with a clatter.

To your surprise, the small metal cap rolled off the cane, clinking as it spun away. It was followed by several small vials that scattered across the floor, their faint glow unmistakable even in the dim light of the room. You froze, staring at the small glass vials, recognizing the vibrant, unmistakable hue of Shimmer.

For a second, you couldn’t move.

You crouched down, heart pounding, to get a better look, wondering if you’d somehow imagined it. But no; there they were and the kitten, oblivious, had already moved on, pouncing at a stray piece of paper on the floor.

[fairy-writes]

THE STARS THEMSELVES

Reblogs and Comments are greatly appreciated!!

__________________________________________________________________________

Requester: Just me, myself, and I

Fandom(s): Arcane: League of Legends

Pairing(s): Viktor x Co-Founder!Gender Neutral!Reader

Genre(s): Angst to Fluff

Request: None.

You are a co-founder of Hextech in this.

ALSO! This could be seen as a prequel to my other oneshot, “Stepping on Toes,” but you don’t have to read that one to understand this one. 

Catch my Doctor Who quote(s) in here and lmk if you find it.

__________________________________________________________________________

The laboratory was silent save for the sounds of you and Jayce tinkering. Viktor was nowhere to be found, having left a few minutes earlier and said something about getting more coffee. It was late into the night, but you wanted to get your invention completed. And you were going to get it done tonight. 

Jayce was working on the Atlas Gauntlets. You were working on your Hexlight. A new invention that was a mobile light source meant to help miners and workers in the Undercity to illuminate their way into the dangerous caverns.

“Will you hand me that wrench over there?” Jayce broke the silence, and you nodded, wordlessly handing the tool to your friend. He was more of a brother to you at this point, you having put your meager life savings into helping get Hextech off the ground. You were also a co-inventor. You had a knack for inventions and worked as a third set of eyes for both Viktor’s and Jayce’s works. 

After a few more moments of working, Viktor still hadn’t come back. At this, you frowned. Where was he?

“Hey, do you know where Viktor is?” You asked, and Jayce stopped what he was doing, sitting back in his chair as he mulled over your question. 

“No, do you need something from him?” He asked, and you shrugged,

“Just wondering what’s taking him so long, is all.” You replied and turned back to your work. You heard Jayce let out a quiet laugh. It sounded odd, so you looked over. He had a teasing grin on his lips, and you narrowed your eyes. What was he planning?

“When were you going to tell me you were in love with Viktor?” He asked abruptly, and you choked on your saliva. After your coughing fit had subsided, you glared at him.

“Where did that come from?!” You demanded, and he shrugged, holding his hands out in a ‘who knows?’ gesture. 

“You aren’t denying it.” Was all he said. You sputtered and tried to deny his statement, but nothing came out—because it would be a lie to refute that claim. As brilliant as Viktor was, you hoped he never picked up on your affections. He would never reciprocate anyway. He wasn’t stupid enough to.

His teasing smile turned smug.

“So you are in love with him!” He exclaimed, and you immediately shushed him. If Viktor was near, you didn’t want him to hear. That would only bring rejection and embarrassment. Or worse, you’d be kicked out of Hextech completely for your stupidity. 

“Shut up!” You hissed and very nearly launched yourself across the space between you two in order to quiet the man when he let out a triumphant laugh. 

“I knew it! He loves you too, you know.” Your world stopped. Did he truly? No. That couldn’t be possible. He would never. You shook your head, voice trembling when you spoke next.

“That’s cruel.” You said, tears welling up in your eyes. Jayce looked taken aback and scrambled with his following words. 

“It’s true! He really does!” He exclaimed in an attempt to get you to calm down. 

Your temper abruptly flared. Typically it was something you prided yourself in keeping under control. But all emotions and control went out the window when it came to Viktor. 

How could he joke about something like that?

You asked him as much, and he continued to clamber and stumble with his words.

“I swear I’m not lying! You are the one who loves Viktor!” He said, and you exploded. 

“Yes, I am! I never denied it! But whoever said he loved me back? He's Viktor. He doesn't go around falling in love with people! And if you think he's anything that small, or that ordinary, then you haven't the first idea of your best friend!” You exclaimed, a single tear streaking your cheek as your temper raged and toiled. You could feel your cheeks burning in embarrassment as Jayce spoke again, digging himself into a deeper and deeper hole.

“Let’s just wait for him to get back. He can explain—”

“There’s no point! He doesn’t love me!” You cut him off, jabbing a finger towards the door. 

“Heaven knows where he is right now, but I promise you, he's doing whatever the hell he wants and not giving a damn about me! And I'm just fine with that!” Tears came faster now, dripping from your chin as you angrily wiped them away. You continued, “When you love Viktor, it's like loving the stars themselves! You don't expect a sunset to admire you back! And even if he was in here, let me tell you, Viktor is not stupid enough or sentimental enough, and he is certainly not in love enough to find himself accepting my feelings!”

“Do you mean all of that?” Came a familiar voice, and you whirled to see Viktor standing in the laboratory doorway, eyes as wide as your own. His hand holding the coffee mug was trembling, and you sniffled, shame making even more tears well up and drip down your face. In the corner of your eye, you noticed Jayce excusing himself and shutting the door behind him, effectively leaving you and Viktor alone.

He shuffled closer, his crutch thumping softly on the ground as he made his way to the table and set the mug down. Then, slowly, he turned to you. His eyes looked sad. He probably pitied you at this point. Pitied the poor you who had fallen in love with him, the person so far below him.

Viktor approached you hesitantly before reaching into his pocket and pulling out a handkerchief. You accepted it with a quiet ‘thank you’ and wiped your eyes. Your cheeks felt raw from your angry wiping.

“So…” He began, and you turned your head away, looking at your shoes instead of his beautiful amber eyes. Here it comes—his rejection. Your humiliation.

“Did you mean what you said?” His voice was quiet, little more than a whisper. You nodded your head, your voice just as soft as you spoke.

“Of course I did. Who wouldn’t love you?” He scoffed, and your head jerked up to look at him, confusion overtaking the self-deprecation briefly. He was looking at his right leg, his bad leg, in disdain. 

“Isn’t it obvious? Why would you love someone like me? I’m crippled and—”

“I don’t care about that.” Your words rushed out like a tidal wave in an attempt to stop his contempt. How could he hate himself like that? He looked at you, eyes beginning to glimmer with hope.

Hope? 

Hope for what?

That didn’t matter now. You had to reassure him, had to make him see. Humiliation was the last thing on your mind now.

“You are brilliant and important and beautiful and oh so kind. I don’t care that you can’t do things other people can. All I care about is you, Viktor. Everything about you.” Voice wobbling, hands clenched, you only hoped he understood what you were feeling. 

So you were surprised when he had tears of his own well up in his eyes. His hand began to tremble again, and he hobbled forward a step or two.

“You think I’m important?” He sounded like a scared little boy, and it broke your heart. You offered a watery smile,

“In all my time alive, I’ve never met anyone who wasn’t important.”

Finally, he stood toe to toe with you, looking into your eyes as if searching for any deceit. He searched your gaze as you searched his, eyes flitting to make sure he wouldn’t begin laughing in your face. Wouldn’t start laughing and cast you out.

All you found was honesty.

Honesty and love.

Love?

With a tentative hand, you reached and placed it on his cheek. He reached up with his free hand and put it over yours, cradling it to his jawline. Warm fuzzies began to flutter in your stomach. Was he—?

“I—” He paused as if trying to find the words. After a moment, he steeled himself, squaring his shoulders but never letting your hand fall away. “I care for you… deeply. It’s like looking at the stars when I look at you. If you look at one long enough, all the others will melt away. That is what I feel when I look at you.” He said and leaned his forehead onto yours. 

You couldn’t breathe, heart stuttering in your chest as you processed his words. He cared. You could even say he loved you. 

You loved him, and he loved you.

That sounded nice. Having someone to love. 

[goddessofroyalty]

Hey uh… story prompt? If you like it, I mean. I’m sorry if not, and it’s totally okay of course! But maybe Viktor post delivery, but it was a difficult one so he is either delirious, in a lot of pain, or shivering from blood loss. Just some good old fashioned hurt/comfort with Jayce taking care of Vik and the baby and Viktor trying to hold it together but he’s really scared of dying now. If death is in the cards or not in that scenario I leave up to you of course. I just enjoy the way you write them so much and you asked for prompts so, uh… yeah. Thank you for writing in general. You really made me feel less awkward about liking mpreg, honestly.

~V⚙️🔩

Try this again on the right prompt. Also AO3 link.

Tags: mpreg, post-childbirth, birth complications (Viktor’s fine at the end though)

---------------

Jayce feels Viktor’s hand twitch in his own that is holding it, waiting for his partner to wake.

He squeezes back as Viktor’s eyes flicker and open and Viktor groans.

“Jayce?” Viktor asks, his voice scratchy.

“I’m right here,” Jayce promises, shifting over in the hospital chair to be closer. “How are you feeling?”

Viktor seems to consider the question for a minute.

“Sore,” he settles on. “What happened?”

“They rushed you into surgery right after he was born.” Jayce doesn’t fully know why either. It had been clear the birth had been difficult for Viktor. And it certainly hadn’t helped Jayce’s anxiety how Viktor had been wheeled from the room almost as soon as their son had been born, leaving Jayce with the nurses and their new child.

Viktor was back now though and awake so surely whatever the danger had been had passed.

“Ah,” Viktor says. “I think I do remember that.”

He takes his hand from Jayce’s to brace himself as he adjusts to sit up in the bed, hissing as he does.

Jayce moves closer to help him up. A hand against Viktor’s back and chest to stabilize him, moving the pillows to help support Viktor once he is seated.

“The doctor’s said you should take it easy,” Jayce says, pulling away to give Viktor space while being close in case he needs anything.

Viktor nods stiffly, his eyes tightly shut and muscles tense as he licks his lip.

“Do you need a drink?” Jayce asks because he can tell Viktor isn’t comfortable and the doctors had mentioned he would be dehydrated from the anesthetic.

“No. Ah- Can I have my child?” Viktor asks, his voice soft.

“Yes of course.” Jayce hadn’t wanted to just hand their new son to Viktor he case he had a difficult wakeup from the surgery. But if Viktor wanted to meet him than Jayce would get him for him.

“Thank you,” Viktor says softly as Jayce carefully picks their son up from the hospital crib, still terrified he will somehow hurt him, and brings him over to Viktor.

Viktor weakly reaches up to accept their bundled child.

Jayce helps to keep him supported as Viktor brings him close. Only letting go once Viktor seems settled with their son in his lap, Jayce sitting on the edge of the bed to be close to them both.

“He’s apparently a perfectly healthy boy,” Jayce says. Unable to help himself but reach out to stroke his son’s cheek as he talks about him. Their son finally able to see the person who carried him for the first time. Viktor had rushed out earlier before he had a chance.

“I- good,” Viktor says, his voice uneven and Jayce figures it is just from the anesthetic.

Viktor curls down around their son, his shoulders shaking as he lets out weak sobs.

“Hey,” Jayce says, resting his hand on Viktor’s shoulder in what he hopes is comfort. “What’s wrong?”

He gets that being able to hold their child is emotional. The wave of love something Jayce himself had never felt. But there is something about how Viktor is that makes Jayce feel like there’s something else as well.

“I… don’t feel right Jayce,” Viktor says, his head still bowed to their child.

“Do you want me to get the doctor?”

“I- please.”

“Of course.” Jayce would do anything to help Viktor feel better. “Do you want to keep holding him while I do or-“

“It is probably safer if you take him back,” Viktor says because his hands are shaking as he weakly tries to sit up again.

“Okay,” Jayce says, moving to help Viktor sit up and gently take their son back. Pressing a kiss to Viktor’s head as he does. “You’ll be okay alright?”

Viktor doesn’t say anything just winces as he relaxes against the pillows.

Jayce puts their son back into the hospital cot to go get the doctor but picks him up as soon as he returns. Holding him as the nurses showed him as the doctor examines Viktor.

“Is he okay?” Jayce asks, when he sees the doctor’s brows furrow.

“He will be but I might see if surgery can fit him in and put him on an antibiotic drip for the next couple of days,” she says. Which doesn’t sound good and Jayce can see Viktor’s eyes tracking patterns on the ceiling while listening.

“Okay,” Jayce says because there isn’t anything else that can be said.

He moves closer to Viktor once the doctor leaves to go organize what they need. Reaching out to take Viktor’s hand in his, rubbing his thumb over his knuckles.

“Is there anything you want me to do?” Anything that could make Viktor more comfortable or the situation better at all.

“No,” Viktor says with a weak shake of his head.

“Okay. Do you want to hold him again?”

“I might drop him.”

“No you won’t. I will be right here to make sure of it,” Jayce promises, bringing their son over to Viktor.

Viktor clearly isn’t still sure but he weakly lifts his hands to take his baby. Just as promised Jayce keeps his hands in place, holding Viktor’s hands in his own as Viktor holds their baby.

He can feel the tremors in Viktor’s hands for it.

When he looks at Viktor’s face all he sees is pale exhaustion.

He wonders if there is anything he can do to get Viktor into surgery sooner.

“Jayce,” Viktor says after a couple of minutes of just holding their son.

“Yeah?”

“Can you get me one of the extra blankets? I’m cold.”

“Sure. Do you want me to take him while I do?” It would be harder, of course, to balance holding their fragile newborn son while getting the blanket but Jayce doesn’t want to make Viktor feel like he’s at risk of hurting their child either.

“I should be okay for a minute,” Viktor decides after thinking about it.

“Okay. I’ll be right back.”

Jayce gently pulls his hands from under Viktor’s to get the blanket that is thankfully folded up on the vacant chair in the room. Viktor is starting to shiver by the time Jayce is covering him with it.

“I’m going to go get the doctor again,” Jayce says, gently running a hand through Viktor’s hair. He knows birth isn’t easy but it doesn’t feel right for Viktor to be this weak.

Viktor nods weakly at it. Letting Jayce gently take their son from him to place back into the hospital cot.

Jayce goes to get the doctor and ten minutes later Viktor is being wheeled back into surgery. Leaving Jayce alone with their newborn son again.

“He’ll be alright,” Jayce promises their son as he holds in in his arms to give himself something to do. Even if he feels like he’s trying to reassure himself as well. “He’s not going to leave us that easily.”

Two hours later Viktor is wheeled back in. A collection of tubes connected to him.

It takes him even longer to wake up than it did the previous time.

“How are you feeling?” Jayce asks when Viktor’s eyes flutter open again.

Viktor just winces and shakes his head.

“Just focus on resting.” They don’t need Viktor to push himself harder than his body can currently handle just so Jayce can talk to him.

 Viktor nods before drifting back to sleep. Leaving Jayce to watch the IVs slowly drain into his partner and care for their child. His only company the nurses and doctors that come in to check Viktor’s vitals.

Viktor eventually wakes again as Jayce sits by his bedside trying to keep their son settled.

“Jayce?” Viktor asks. The color looking at least slightly returned to his skin and eyes more focused.

“Right here,” Jayce says, same as when Viktor woke up from his first surgery. He hopes it won’t happen a third time. “Are you feeling better?”

“A little,” Viktor says, turning his head to look at Jayce and their child, smiling weakly at them. “How has he been?”

“A little unsettled,” Jayce answers honestly. “I think he’s worried about you. Or maybe he’s just picking up on my worry.”

Viktor gives a hum at it. Reaching out with his hand to touch his son. Jayce immediately bringing the baby closer so he doesn’t have to stretch as far.

“Sorry for worrying you.”

“Don’t. You don’t need to apologize Vik,” Jayce says, trying to fight the tears gathering in his eyes. Viktor doesn’t need to know just how worried he was. “I’m just glad you’re okay. You are okay right? Do you need me to get you the doctor again?”

Jayce would. And he would continue to do so until Viktor was better.

“No. I think I’m okay now,” Viktor says before wincing as he tries to shift. “Ah, I mean I just need to rest.”

“Okay. Tell me if you need anything.” Whatever it might be Jayce would get it.

“Your hands are already full as is,” Viktor says, with a nod to their child in Jayce’s arms. “I am sorry I’m not of more use.”

“You already did enough,” Jayce says. Viktor had carried their child for nine months and the toll from their birth was the reason he was still in the hospital bed with all the cords attached to him. “I can take it from here.”

“Not entirely I hope,” Viktor says. “We are partners are we not?”

“We are.” Partners in Hextech. Partners in life. And now partners in parenthood. “Once you’re better though.”

[eddawrites]

In an ideal world, I was hoping to have this finished in time for MelJay AU Week but first technical difficulties, then life and mental health interfered, so as it stands I can only share this small sneak peek.

This is a canon divergence AU in which Mel seeks out Jayce in his ruined apartment after the trial instead of Viktor.

——————————————

“Well, I almost fell because of you.” he retorts.

She pins him with a look he initially reads as vexation, eyebrow raised high, “So you mean to tell me you were over there contemplating the night skies?” she says wryly. But the tiniest twinkle of amusement in her eye does not escape him even so.

He heaves a deep sigh, “It seemed like the better idea at the time.”

“Than what?”

“Giving up,” Jayce explains. “Spending the rest of my life working the smithy. Having to live every day with the reminder that I failed. That I could’ve made a difference. That I could’ve changed the world for the better.” His voice is bereft of the impassioned affectations he had served to the council earlier; the youthful bravado has all but eroded, giving way to a broken man’s despair. “You’ve no idea what it’s like to feel so powerless.” He spits the last word like it’s leaving a bad taste in his mouth.

Her eyelashes flutter as if she’d been struck by something in his words.

“You and I are more alike than you know.” she says in a voice sombre like a distant memory. “I may not have a mind for science, but I know what it’s like to have ideas that exceed the imagination of your betters.”

Her eyes seem a million miles away, staring right past his shoulder and across the rooftops to where Piltover meets the sea. He takes the time to study them—her eyes—a deep moss green like the nephrite crystals in his collection, rimmed with gold. They glisten with remembrance of something lost and unspoken.

“I would have liked for someone to have believed in me.” she adds quietly, finally meeting his eyes.

Her gaze is the saddest thing Jayce has seen.

Then, abruptly as it came, the moment of vulnerability is gone, chased away with an emphatic blink. One day he will learn to anticipate that very tic as one of her tells. A way for her to regain composure when unanticipated emotions threaten to spill over.

When she next speaks, it is no longer the woman talking, but the councillor again.

“You said you were on a verge of breakthrough, yes?”

“I—” The word hangs in the air for a while as Jayce rubs the back of his neck nervously. “Might’ve exaggerated a little.”

“So you were lying?” There’s that eyebrow again, more pointed than even the tone of her voice.

“No, I just…” he flinches. “I wanted to save my research. All I needed to crack my theory was more time. Councillor, you need to understand… this research? It’s my entire life’s work. The only thing that matters to me.”

A few years from now he will repeat the last sentence to her as he drops on his knee to ask for her hand, and she will recall this moment and tease him about the fact.

“Well, I guess it doesn’t matter now.” he says, head hung low. “It’s gone. My notes, my equipment… All of it.”

As if on cue, she produces a leather-bound notebook stamped with the House Talis sigil from behind her back. She smiles impishly, a mysterious glint in her green eyes, “You mean these notes?”

And he stands there, mouth agape, like a fool. Vainly grasping for words to string together.

When he finally remembers how to speak, he says: “Where did you get that?”

“I wasn’t always a councillor.” she reveals with a note of mischief playing on her lips.

[can-of-pringles]

Look After (Chapter 3)

Rating: Teen and up audience

Warnings: Tiny bit of Angst, mention of illness

Word Count: 1k

Summary: Viktor tells Jayce some worrying information.

Also Read On AO3

“Maybe this time I’ll beat him.” Jayce thought as he hurried to the lab.

He and his partner, Viktor, had a little friendly competition on who could make it to the lab the earliest. So far, Viktor was in the lead.

Jayce opened the door. As usual, Viktor was already there working.

“Nice to see you again,” Viktor gave him a short wave of acknowledgment.

Jayce could’ve sworn he heard a smile in the man’s voice.

He held back his sigh and placed his work journals and things down.

He knew Viktor secretly liked to win, but he wouldn’t ever admit it.

“How?”

“How… what?” Viktor replied.

“I really thought I would win this time, I got up earlier!” Jayce frowned.

“Arline’s school, always have to wake up early to take her, thought I might as well start working afterward,” Viktor explained.

“Oh… right,” he muttered. “Eat breakfast?”

“Yes, Arline gets mad if I don’t eat breakfast with her before school,” he spoke.

“Heh, you are such a parent.” Jayce teased.

Viktor said nothing in response.

It had been a year since Viktor officially adopted Arline. It had been somewhat of a rocky beginning; trying to get the girl settled into her new life and all. Helping her deal with the grief that came with it, as well as from mourning her old life. But overall, she was doing well.

---

Viktor placed his work down and sighed.

“What’s wrong?” Jayce asked.

“I need to tell you something, it’s important…”

“Alright, tell me,” he said.

Viktor stared at the desk, trying to think of the right combination of words to say.

“I, uh, went to see a doctor recently,”

Jayce’s eyes widened. “Are you ok? What happened? Are you sick?”

“Let me finish, please.” He interjected.

Jayce nodded.

“I went because I started getting a sort of… ache in my chest; my lungs, thought it was nothing, but I just had a sense to get it checked anyway,” Viktor continued. “Doctor said it was good that I had gone because they found something…”

“Something?”

“There’s a problem with my lungs, says it has to do with the bad air from the Undercity,” He admitted.

“Viktor… I’m so sorry, can they do anything?”

“Actually, yes, they said that because it was caught early, I have options,”

“Well, that’s great news, right?” Jayce asked.

He nodded. “There are more treatment options available in the stage I’m in, in fact, one of them has an extremely high success rate, and the doctors recommended that one the most.”

“That’s really good! What is it?”

“They suggested moving to a place with better air, somewhere away from Piltover, to more countryside and open, and a specific medication to take as well,” Viktor spoke.

The two men remained silent.

“Viktor, you have to take this chance,” Jayce finally said.

“And miss out on Hextech and improving lives? I don’t think so.” He huffed.

“How are you going to improve lives when yours needs improving first?”

“They said I could possibly never return, not permanently anyway, they said a few temporary visits would be harmless, but that’s it.” Viktor frowned.

“How short are we talking here?” Jayce questioned.

“They said a visit could be a month-long at the most, any longer and I’d be pushing it,”

“How far away would you have to move?”

“Not too far outside the city’s borders, but not a walk’s length, there’s plenty of land out there actually, a couple of villages, so I’ve heard,” Viktor answered.

“You have been doing moving research.” Jayce accused. “Surprising,”

“Only because I’m trying to prepare for every possible decision.”

“So, you’re not actually considering it?”

“I… don’t know,” he muttered.

“Viktor, as your friend and partner, I really think you should,” Jayce said.

“I’d never get to work on Hextech again!”

“Yes, you could! I’d make sure of it, I’d routinely visit and send you stuff to work on, always update you on what’s going on, I would never keep you out of the loop, Viktor, Hextech is as much of yours as it is mine, promise.” Jayce offered.

“I still don’t like it…”

“This is your best bet, right?”

“According to the doctors, yes.” He sighed. “I would miss you, a lot,” Viktor confessed.

“I would visit you as often as I could, without a doubt,” Jayce placed his hand on Viktor’s shoulder.

“I have a lot to decide…”

“What would happen to you, if left untreated?” Jayce questioned.

Viktor gave him a look. “I think it’s fairly obvious what would happen,”

He frowned. “Right, course…”

“It’s pretty shitty, isn’t it?” Viktor muttered.

“At least you can do something about it,”

“But it feels like I’m being backed into a corner, Jayce, it’s not a good place to be…” He sighed.

Jayce had more to say but wasn’t sure if he should bring it up or not.

“You have Arline to think about as well,” he said anyway.

Viktor furrowed his eyebrows and glared. “How dare you bring her into this,”

“You can’t be selfish, Viktor! What would happen to her if you died? She couldn’t handle it!” Jayce argued.

“You think I don’t know that? My first thought was about her when I got the news!” He raised his voice.

Viktor froze. He sighed and rubbed his tired eyes.

“I can’t abandon her, Jayce… not after everything she’s been through…”

Jayce’s face softened. “You don’t have to, you have the choice not to.”

“I know… I’m afraid I’ll have to make the choice of moving,”

“I’ll help you figure it all out if you’d like.” Jayce offered.

“Thank you,”

The conversation appeared to be ending.

Until Viktor spoke again.

“Arline called me ‘Dad’ today…”

Jayce’s eyebrows raised in surprise.

“It wasn’t on purpose, I’m sure, because she was speechless after saying it, I didn’t say anything back, so we continued on with the morning,”

“How do you… feel about it?”

“I don’t know, I didn’t hate it, in one way, I’m honored she even sees me in a paternal sense, but it’s odd,” he said.

“Because you’re not used to it?”

Viktor nodded.

“Would you like to be known as Arline’s father?” Jayce asked.

“I’m kind of filling that role already, just without the actual title, but to be called it, I think it would grow on me eventually,” Viktor spoke.

“I think it would suit you.” Jayce smiled.

He smiled in return.

“As long as she’s ok with it, I suppose, it’s kind of nice having a daughter, isn’t it?”

“I wouldn’t know,” he said.

Viktor chuckled shortly. “Right.”

“Maybe one day I could be her honorary uncle or something,” Jayce suggested.

“Only if she’d be ok with it,”

“You think she would?”

“I guess you’ll have to see.” Viktor smiled.

“So… how do you feel about the potential moving now?”

“I still don’t think it’s ideal, but I’m considering it more, I still have to have a talk with Arline about all of this though…” He responded.

“You think she’d react well to a move?”

“Mm, I don’t know about the actual move itself, but I think she’d like the open space and fresh air, I think she’d probably find it peaceful,”

“Well, let’s hope for that, right?” Jayce said.

Viktor thought over his words.

“Yeah,”

[finn-writes-stuff]

First of all, I wanna say I love your writing!

Second, can I request fluffy headcanons of a first date scenario with Viktor?

Thank you so much! And thank you for the inspiration as well. The muses have been fickle as of late

Viktor x Reader

Fandom: Arcane

Format: Drabble

Warnings: Nothing big

Gender-Neutral Reader

Character Masterlist

Commission Info

You know Viktor too well not to see how nervous he was. His hands were constantly moving, either drumming on his can or tugging at his collar. You were used to seeing it when important people came into the lab, people Viktor wasn’t allowed to ignore in favour of his work.

You weren’t used to seeing it when it was just the two of you. This situation was very different than working together though.

After four months of dancing around eachother and casually flirting, sharing soft smiles and lingering a little too long together, he had finally asked you out to dinner. He had been nervous then too, ducking his head so you could only barely see the blush colouring his cheeks.

But you were here now, in Viktor’s living room waiting for dinner to be ready. And you’d be damned if you let your date be awkward. Not when you were so comfortable with him before.

“Did you see Mel earlier today?” You asked, grabbing one of his hands to casually trace the lines.

“Mel? No, I don’t believe I did. Why?”

“She was missing one of her earrings. You know the pretty gold ones?”

“All of her earrings are gold as far as I am aware.”

“Mhm, is there anywhere else you have seen gold jewelry recently?”

“Why would I have-oh.” You can see the moment it clicks for him, and the way he shakes his head when he laughs is ridiculously endearing. “That’s what Jayce had in his pocket, yes?”

“Yep,” you replied grinning. “The best part is I’m pretty sure Jayce thinks he’s been being subtle.”

“About as subtle as a brick hitting a window.” You could tell he was so much more relaxed now, leaning towards you and letting you play with his hand. Sitting on the couch together, you could see the small details on his face. Not just his moles and the way his hair fell over his face, but the glint in his eyes.

God he was pretty.

“I am, uh, very glad you agreed to have dinner with me,” Viktor said, his voice soft and a little embarrassed.

“How could I say no? I’ve been hoping you would for ages, Vik.”

He never seemed to know how to react to you more genuine tones of affection. When teasingly flirting, he gave as good as he got, but something about the softness in your voice just melted him.

“May I kiss you?”

[hextechdreamed]

{⚙️}: Viktor merely shrugged. Yes, many things he had done in his life could have killed him, and he was sure he would participate in more before the illness that ravaged his body finally did him in. It was difficult to fear recklessness when one was already halfway dead. So what if he died a few days earlier than was planned? He would still be dead, regardless. Better to go out with a purpose, than lying uselessly in a hospital bed.

Jinx’s unwillingness to answer gained only a sigh, and a slight scrunch of his face. He didn’t know what he had expected, really. “I do not want your materials.” he told her, holding out the vial between his fingers, “I was merely curious.”

The inventor considered for a moment, whether or not he should answer her question. He did, in fact, still have the pieces of Jinx’s bomb, but they were Academy property now, and he didn’t have access to them anymore. Not unless we were to be granted permission to run further tests on them. He supposed he could ask, though he would have to make up a good enough excuse as to why. That, or try to sneak in to test them. Though, judging by how well that had gone with Jayce, he would most likely get himself caught, and he doubted the other Councilors would be as understanding as Mel.

“Why would I do that?” he asked calmly, “You seem to be unwilling to cooperate with me. Why should I offer you the courtesy?”

Suddenly, papers and supplies were being shoved into his hands, and he was being instructed to make art. He blinked, a little caught off guard by the woman’s rapidly-changing attention, but ultimately unbothered. He found her curious, interesting, and was willing to humor her if it meant he could learn a little more about her.

“I dabble.” he said, smoothing the paper out over his legs, and picking up a marker, “Though I much prefer graphite to ink.” and with that, he began to sketch.

While he did so, he would glance back over every now and then, trying to get a look at what she was doing, “What are you making, now? It’s... different, than the one I disassembled.”

hextechdreamed​:

{⚙️}: “Ehh… yes?” he replied earnestly. How on Runeterra did she focus like this? How could she hear herself think? He could only imagine the frustration he would feel, should he have to work, to study, to understand, with music blaring in his ears.

“Personally, I prefer the familiarity.”

Viktor blinked in surprise as she suddenly silenced him— rather rudely, he might add. His brows furrowed in annoyance, and he gave an indignant huff. Oh, so now the noise was too much? His talking was the tipping point, not the music that threatened to vibrate every tool and scrap off of the nearby workbench? Very well, then. He simply sat back, prepared to watch. Wasn’t that what he had wanted, anyways?

But now she was yelling again, louder than before, and before he could stop it, it was in his ear, making him flinch away from her. He could hear a ringing, which he hoped wouldn’t follow him back home. Viktor had heard that Jinx was the unpredictable sort, but he hadn’t thought much of it. After all, wasn’t he technically the unpredictable sort? This, though… this was becoming a little too much for even him to handle.

Lithe hands hurried to catch the vial, making certain it didn’t drop into his lap, or worse, onto the floor. He wasn’t certain whether or not she was bluffing, but he wasn’t willing to take that chance. He frowned at her and her song, the expression causing a slight crinkle in his nose. How crude…

“I am not afraid of explosions.” he stated simply, holding up the vial up so that he may look at it in the light. Analytical eyes scrutinized it, wondering what may be inside, “What is this?”

❝ You should be! It could kill you, ❞ Jinx pleasantly supplied. She hummed as she rearranged the wires, connecting them to their proper ports. ❝ Some sort of fluid. ❞ She gave him a weird look. ❝ What, do you really think I’m gonna tell you? Run your little science experiments on it or something, if you still have it. ❞ Her hand reached over to tap the vial in his hand. ❝ This one’s mine, you can’t have it. ❞

She thought about it for a moment before her eyes brightened. ❝ Wait a sec… If you disarmed it, do you still have it?? I think it’s one of my better creations. It could have blown you to bits! ❞ Jinx giggled, pushing her hands against her head before imitating an explosion. ❝ BOOM! To itty bitty pieces!! ❞ Obviously, she was having a good time.

Jinx sighed happily as she connected the last wire. ❝ You should bring it back to me. ❞ Was it just an excuse to have him around again? Maybe, but he didn’t need to know that. She didn’t look at him as she grabbed a vial from the case and carefully inserted it between the wires. This was definitely a bigger bomb than the one Viktor had dealt with. 

❝ Are you an artist, too? ❞ She reached over, grabbing some paper off the floor before presenting it to him. ❝ Here. Draw something for me. ❞ The paint and markers were given to Viktor shortly after. 

Almost done with the bomb. The second vial was inserted and Jinx paused, tapping her chin. ❝ Hm… What if I add a third? ❞