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Winter in Piltover was something Jayce never enjoyed. The snow gave him nightmares even if the fluffy bits of water were nothing like the glorified shards of ice he remembered. Everyone skated on the frozen pond right outside the academy as well, and Jayce never had the balance to attempt. So while his walk to class that morning was already drowning his mood, cold air and chilled shoes; There was another weight to his mind that had him scanning the crowded courtyard filled with promising engineers and charming professors.
His soulmate timer was getting close to zero. One minute and 30 seconds. But. He honestly had no clue who it could be. Since by all measures and studies on the spinning numbers pointed to that it stopped when a person Fell in love. Not when they meet.
And while he’s seen the beauty of Mel, gold and charisma oozing from her every pore, Jayce doubts a minute will change that he only finds her company enjoyable. Like sitting in the park on a summer day- relaxing , but not something he could chalk up to a partnership. Someone who didn’t just share his hope for progress with his work- but a person who set him on fire with their passion. Who he could converse about all the equations and idea’s they had until the morning sun came up.
Faint screaming expletives rang across the courtyard, Jayce’s eyes worriedly following the sound. Was someone starting a fight? Only to land on something else- A young man with a cane, carrying a box filled with gears and rolled up blueprints, who was berating professor Heimerdinger of all people.
Jayce couldn’t hear what exactly, because he was distracted by the man’s sharp, distinguished face. By Amber eyes that practically looked Molten- straight from the flames and into his soul. By dark, night shaded hair that looked too soft for the harsh temperatures. He was leaning on a cane for balance, and oddly enough the thought crossed his mind that the other’s skin almost matched the snowfall. Only interrupted by a couple of moles that decorated his face, small and delicate little details. As if the divine had to dot every I on this man- thoughts kept racing about the angles on their face, how the glare they held at the Dean himself could be the answer to a plethora of his issues.
He was about to walk over, introduce himself, get the guys name- but his eyes had to tear away from the scene when his wrist felt like it was searing. Heart stopping when he rolled up his sleeve and saw that his timer had just run out.
It had to be him then. Jayce wasn’t sure why but he felt warmer than he did in the forge at the thought. Looking back where he had been however, the brunette beauty was gone. Heimerdinger shaking his head dejected at apparently the runaway… student? Apprentice? Jayce didn’t even know that!
“Wait- no no-“ He muttered in despair, trying to pick out from the milling populace the man of his dreams. Jayce asked anyone else around if they had noticed him, and no leads, and when he tried to pry information out of the Professor later that afternoon he said he couldn’t disclose. He swore the furry dean was looking at him like he’d grown a second head.
Jayce didn’t have the nerve to say Why.
Because of course he fell in love with someone at first sight, but that didn’t matter. He wasn’t gonna stop until he found him again, when he saw the others clock hit zero. He was Jayce Fucking Talis, and his soulmate will not be slipping away that easily.
His mother did always say he burned like the flames he worked with after all.
It’s been three years, since Viktor left his apprenticeship at the academy. He remembered it clear as day, the dean of the academy said the council voted him for a special project due to his prowess in mechanical engineering. Not that he had listened with bated breath-more tempered excitement, but even with that, Viktor still remembers being livid. The last straw towards the Academy that had given him so much. That had allowed him to pursue his education to a degree he never dreamed as a child, barely able to run faster than a toy boat.
They wanted him to design a new weapon- something simple they said. Given his talents with finding redundancies, routing out for efficient solutions, of course the council had him in mind. Not that it mattered the armful of humanitarian projects he had put forth for funding to get greenlit, and the repeated statement that he would rather chew on one of their explosives than work with the military.
It was red tape and politics at the Academy, even with the dean’s best efforts. Viktor remembered screaming in the courtyard that he was going to where people Needed help- not a general who wanted a shiny new toy. He was sleep deprived and bitter that day, getting stuck late the night before working on other designs. Ones to help the water quality systems- but ended with more split coffee than progress.
Did not help his reaction, but Viktor honestly couldn’t say he regretted it. He apologized to Heimerdinger months later for how he left, but his new plans had started to take shape surprisingly quickly.
In the Undercity, you do what people need. You provide what people want. Be that food, lodging, or entertainment to the masses. The few respites ones in their standing could have after all. Where the air tried to choke you on bad days, where people were wary of open bodies of water. You had to do something, make something that could matter or you’d rot. A lesson he’d learned year ago as a child, one he could now use.
And in order to fund his own more extravagant plans- Viktor started simple. He crafted toys. Boats that worked better than the one that outran him as a child, sturdy and gleaming with a beauty his home rarely got to indulge in. He took scraps of whatever busted metal and scrap wood to start. People were skeptical at first, seeing a cripple whittle and fashioning bits of art for children, but fascination always outweighed fear here.
Even if sometimes it meant in end to your life, the denizens would never die curious. They had to scrape by, had to live in so much tension in just daily life that it was the one thing they could grasp. Be it with aggression or conversation was another leap- but Viktor soon made an odd ally with a young blue haired girl… which lead to an unlikely investor.
Silco.
Admittedly, Viktor was skeptical of the crime lords interest at the start. By the time they’d met his history with the academy had been made common knowledge thru the rumor mills, so he did assume the worst. He was taken off guard when the other offered him funding- his own storefront, all in exchange for taking his charge in as a student.
His talk of freeing Zaun from Piltover influence was also tempting, though he made sure to keep his mouth shut about his own ideas. It was dangerous to entangle with someone like Silco even in small doses, and this much collateral already made him wary.
So instead, he took what was offered, and dug in. Things proceeded to snowball as Viktor found enjoyment with his new situation, much to his confusion. He found himself falling into toy designs with Jinx, the little blue haired girl, and going over adjustments to make them safe. As- her living with silco made every design with weapons or blades. Which while not uncommon in their home, Viktor wanted to change that.
“We make things to bring a smile to children. Every person deserves a bit of levity, even here Jinx.”
It was cathartic, falling into whittling, pouring of metals into small casings, showing Jinx little tricks to hide gears and wiring for smooth outputs. Bringing to life imaginations with every smile, and even with the pain in his leg, his need for rest- Viktor pushed. Because when night came, and his little pupil would leave, he had to his other plans to sketch. Of correcting the air filtration systems- of mainlining the water , hell even finding an easier solutions to the Gods damned heating crisis that happened during the winter. He would pull out his blueprints and get to work, keeping them under 12 locks during the day to make sure no one could see his plans for less than legal options for improvement.
A couple of keys, as well as lists of guard schedules for the respective gas and water plants, were left on his bedside table within a week. Viktor tried not to dwell on the fact his sponsor knew all his activities so easily, and did what he always did- took what he could.
The years began to fly after that moment. The shop taking space with more and more little pieces, all painted by jinx in vibrant colors that attracted any child that happened to walk by. Viktor adding bits of comfort he could find in any corner. To sofa’s covered in throws, to small bookshelves he and Jinx filled with books about softer worlds. Of sweets- of simple times of knights and dragons- of myth and magic.
And thru his less than legal access, Viktor has been making slow changes and updates to systems that had long since been left to rot. Honestly it was a stumbling block because the blueprints he thought were current-were also horrendously out of date. He had to fashion himself a leg brace after awhile, abusing his already damaged leg did it’s toll after all. Viktor couldn’t care less about the pain though, it was working- he could see it. The smog starting to decrease, the water becoming less gray; It was incremental, but even his toys were offering a bit more levity to the darkened paths of his home.
He should be happy. But exhaustion, and a new issue dawned while Jinx cut out snowflakes for the windows. Her long since zeroed out timer colored in with paint of when to pick up Isha from her sisters.
His own had 24 hours left. And Viktor’s concern was weighing on him.
Because love was not in the cards. Or it shouldn’t be. Not with his health, or his current options. Its either his ex professor who has sunk to making Shimmer- the effects he has seen first hand mutate the populace with glowing purple pustules, stripping their muscle structures, and shrinking veins until their hearts cannot pump. Or Silco, the gang leader that took any accomplishments of Zaun as his own. That murdered any competition to further the drive Viktor has seen sense day one. That he’s tried to use to persuade him deeper into the hold that he had on all the inventor has worked for.
It terrified him to think within 24 hours, the concept would be welcomed.
The numbers used to fascinate him, a connection to fate right there on his wrist. Early in his academy days he had a wild notion to tap into it somehow. To see if the energy could heal his leg, to help his lungs- but he never could find the right angle- only dead ends. So he kept his clock wrapped in Piltover, and now here.
The eyes that wandered were curious in Zaun, but judgmental Topside. Nowadays his highest paying ‘customers’- thanks to word of mouth. Leading to dozens of invitations from puffed up nobles who wanted a new story about the Undercity toymaker cluttering his drawers. It disgusted him truly.
But another glance to his covered wrist, and to the unfinished hunk of oak on his messy table covered in orders. Supposed to be duck, but still so many nooks to carve, gears to nick, and string to connect to make it all float and swim with soon to be grace.
A stab of pain ran up his thigh, knocking the wind from him into his chair.
“Geezer- you can sit and whittle ya know.”
Viktor huffed. Three years practically and Jinx’s sass never ebbed.
“And not everything must have bomb designs- yet your snowflakes say otherwise.”
She ignored the jab, smiling that devious grin he knows can unnerve some. It was wide and unruly, showing all her teeth like a piranha, or a shark. The little explosive shaped pieces of paper in dark emeralds and ruby laid in her lap, Jinx looked as proud and carefree as could be. Her blue braids wrapped in strings of holly for festivities with Ekko and Isha later that night.
If there was one thing Viktor wouldn’t mind if he was tricked by fate to love Silco, is Jinx.
She really did liven up his workshop, even if at the start that was thru multiple fires or paint sprayer ‘accidents’ that left half the space covered in highlighter pinks and blues. Her breakdowns used to be even more bombastic than her myriad of creations. Teaching her though was something unique, seeing the girl shine with an inquisitive nature most overlooked. Her biting tone refreshing in exchange from false praises from the Academy, or manipulations from Jinx’s own father figure. His family had died when he was young, no siblings or cousins, pretty common in Zaun- but the hyperactive little mechanic was the closest Viktor would admit to feeling a familial bond. Even if she caused his blood pressure to skyrocket on a daily basis.
“Aw you can say it’s cute you grouch.” Hanging up the décor haphazardly, Viktor chuckled under his breath when Jinx stuck her tongue out at a pair walking past the window.
“It, It does bring a certain flair. Very You.” Was all he would admit, his accent clipping a bit softer while idly checking his leg brace for damage. It had been locking up more recently, the joints giving too much and clicking with each other- not helping when he needed to stand for long periods. He might have to look to an actual smith to check his designs- his pupil interrupted his train of thought when she hopped to sit on his worktable, self satisfied grin firmly in place.
“Why thank you” she said, her pink eyes falling on the barely realized hunk of wood as her voice softened, a rare flick of concern. “but seriously, you don’t wanna come tonight? Kiddo wants to see you.” Jinx kept her gaze to his work, doing her best attempt at her bored charade that she did whenever some gangster made empty threats outside the shop. Viktor clocked in this instance the smallest set of a pout this time.
He had been letting his late night work, as important as it was, get in the way of time with them. Not that Viktor had let Jinx in on his escapades, though he was never sure if Silco told his adoptive daughter everything- especially with how the man practically encouraged her to become an attack dog. The sour words exchanged the last couple of years on that front being the one faux pax he will continue to make. The older mans words making his bones themselves seethe.
Real power doesn’t come to those who were born strongest, or fastest, or ‘smartest’ Viktor-It comes to those who will do Anything to achieve it.
Mafia’s, gangs, drug dealers, never can have a stable line of attachment with ‘family’ could they? So bothersome. He sighed, grabbing his wood knife and taking the hunk of wood away from Jinx’s grasp.
“She will see me tomorrow, …and I miss Isha as well. Her butterflies were a nice addition to the bookshelf.” His words sounded nostalgic near the end, digging into the soft wood with a hum.
The childish little insects were painted in nooks and cranny’s just last month, on the marked year date of his young protégé busting into the shop right as he was getting his coffee, with a mute child clinging to her pants shouting that she had her own trainee now. Viktor couldn’t say he was surprised she ended up snagging a child on their own and was being chased by mobsters, but the change was something like the world tipping or gravity turning off when he had forty five minutes of sleep at most.
Isha, also seemed to learn quickly like Jinx before her. He only let her paint for now on the ‘extra’ toys Jinx made, that totally weren’t from spare bits of wood and metal Viktor left around the workshop for the other to use at their leisure. That would be irresponsible and a waste of his time of course. Her painting seemed to be when she was most calm, so the bookshelf was the last victim in a long line of places the child had doodled. His blue haired student caring for the girl like another sister.
“Fine Geezer, but If you need help ya better call. Capice?” Jinx removed herself from the space as he continued notching, tracing where the deeper sections needed to be cut. Where pieces could be taken and reattached once detailed, Viktor could see the feathers start to bloom with each chunk out taken. A start. He rolled his eyes, not believing the over the top accent of a threat his pupil was trying to pull while she gathered her bag. Along with a monkey with cymbals- the eyes had yet to be painted.
“Yes yes- Now run off. I’m sure Isha is beside herself with worry.”
The winter, as cold and unforgiving as it could be in Zaun, never used to bother Viktor. Unless it was walking around where the black ice had taken to the streets like root, getting even more bruises on his weakened body. Spotting those hazard came with age however, and he’d even used to calculate the cracks in the roads for their possibility of becoming death traps.
Now, as he carved and detailed a ducks bill next to the small but hefty ‘oven’, the ice outside led to distraction. Digging into his mediocre brace, the skin of his thigh, and dragging him from the rhythm of careful creation. Back to his wrist, and the panic that came with possibilities he couldn’t control. Viktor put down his project, rubbing at his blurring eyes until they hurt.
“I cannot spend tonight sulking” He spat bitterly into the air, hands dropping to his side in irritation. Not that he could try to go to the systems today to even try to update anything- because of course the one thing Piltover is certain of is Zaun is their need for security.
Guard schedules were round the clock tonight. No dice.
The inventor narrowed his eyes at his drawer, the stacks of invites for tonight were not appealing really- but. Maybe there’s a decent distraction amongst them, have a little booze, stick to the sides, make minimal chit chat with some idiots whose outfit costs more than his store- and go home to accept his fate with a numbed brain.
Was it a smart idea? Viktor liked to think so considering the toy on his desk looked like something in a nightmare than a fairytale. He carved the eyes too deep, and the progress made with the feathers looked more sharp than the softness he attempted to portray, not the mention the gutting was- messy, too jagged for the proper gears to fit for the feet to move.
The drawer opened with a sigh, his nose wrinkling as he shuffled through shifting varieties of the golden script that Pilties always thought looked fancy. All it did was look wasteful and annoying to read against the yellowed parchment.
Viktors’s hand stopped though seeing a different coloring, black pen in swoopy lettering, against stark white academy standard. It gave him pause to see it despite their talks, fingers grazing over his old professor’s name in consideration before breaking the seal. The letter filed with pleasantries that he filled away to thank for later, and saw it was a party hosted by Mel Medarda and Heimerdinger wanted to bring him along as a friendly plus one.
My boy- I know you have been busy, but this party is just an intimate affair filled with holiday cheer! I promise no fireworks, and I’ve been told by Councilor Medarda herself she would thrilled to meet you face to face. No meetings, no deals, just wear something nice. Party is at 7, and I can have a carriage come get you if you call before 5.
I look forward to seeing you my old pupil,
Prof Heimerdinger.
The clock across the room ticked, and thankfully, Viktor would have 15 minutes to call. Before he could talk himself out of venturing outside, he reached for the desk phone. Free hand rubbing at his brace, willing a bit of heat into his unwilling leg when a familiar, extremely chipper voice broke into greeting.
It’s just a party. Just a drink- he could forget about his problems for tonight.
--
Mel pulled all the stops during the holidays, at this point Jayce had grown accustomed to the glittering ballroom, the ivory pillars warped with gold. He barely even glanced at the ceiling, which revealed more intricate stained glass above a gyroscope that idly spun. The room decked to the gills in festive cheer that his friend rarely got to express due to her own station, the chandeliers even adorned with delicate ornaments in an array of color that Jayce knew had some whispering about a Zaun influence. The bright shades clashing with the more classic red and gold curtains he remembers is a statement from her mom.
It blended over the last years. Especially when his mind was elsewhere, scanning thru the smaller crowd of nobles and councilman that Mel invited. Hoping beyond hope that tonight he could see Viktor again. That he would finally get his chance to speak with his soulmate.
It took even a year to find out his name- when Piltover became abuzz hearing of … a toymaker from the undercity.
Jayce smiled faintly at the memory, of his confusion- frustration at the loss of potential from someone who was at the Academy. How it melted when his eyes fell onto a piece, a detailed boat. Polished cooper gears for wheels moved effortlessly thru the water, fingerprints of engineering with each new detail. Metal and wood molded seamlessly, care and delicacy meeting the need for stability like an old friend. Everyone’s words only noting the clean colors of bronze and cream, how it was so ‘sophisticated’ for someone from the undercity.
He thinks sometimes he’s the only one who noticed the love his soulmate, who he hadn’t met in person yet officially, put into what some would only find a novelty. It made him burn with a need even brighter- and joining the council under Mel’s recommendation gave Jayce more resources to find more details about him. Like the dusty, denied plans in the council records with only a V in the corner, different styles of projects to rebuild Zauns infrastructure. Endearing scribbles scattered over the meticulous diagrams that he may not trace from time to time when he hits another relentless roadblock in his own work.
The gentle plucking of harps sang thru air as the another set of attendees were announced. His posture straightening when the names came thru.
‘Please welcome our Esteemed Professor Heimerdinger, and his guest, Viktor of Zaun.’
His breath caught in his throat when he finally saw him. Viktor had only gotten more breathtaking in time, his now chestnut hair grown out to his shoulders with edges dipped in moonlight silver. Wearing a coal button up paired with a currant vest that reminded him of mulled wine. Embroidered with sharp golden lines that accentuated the man’s waist in a way that screamed sophistication and sin. Jayce’s heart ached as his gaze landed on the brace that now hugged the Viktor’s leg, what if’s ran thru his skull on why it would be needed. The cane had evolved as well, taking more of his weight with each step. The dark walnut topped in a sturdy iron handle, with endearing splashes of paint down in shapes he couldn’t make out from the distance.
Amber eyes still brighter than molten iron too.
How does he even start? Does he compliment him? Shit he still has to introduce himself- and what if he HATES him? He couldn’t handle it, maybe he should grab some equations he’s been working on? It could be a conversation starter-
“Jayce. If you continue to just stew here, after I pulled this off? I will kick you down these stairs. No one will blame me either.”
Mel spoke in a reserved tone, but anyone who knew the councilwoman beyond policy and deals could see that twitch in her perfect press smile. She looked beautiful as usual, a sleek ruby dress clung to her figure, making the gold bands on her practically glow under the soft lights. She even brought out her snowflake earrings dipped in gold shimmer Jayce gifted the year prior, all pulled together with her hairstyle tied with her families bands and locs.
“And ruin my first actually convo before it starts? Low blow Councilwoman Medarda.” He teased, his nerves calming for a moment with her at his side. It was safe- as safe as you could around someone who breathed politics as easily as air. She put a hand to his shoulder, leaning over to whisper conspiratory in his ear like they used to at the Academy. Always playful then, now can be seen as more by press, not that they didn’t already assume like vultures.
Only Viktor mattered though.
“Then maybe gather that Talis courage you preach about. And get your soulmate.”
His eyes found the brunette again, but his hackles raised seeing Salos of all people talking to him. Blabbing with that sardonic grin that looked like a cockroach, and Viktors once calm features twisted in a barely held back sneer. All while the professor seemed to be playing mediator at a failing rate, the fuzzball waving his hands frantically between the two.
An opening. Play the part of a concerned councilor seeing distress, then start up a conversation.
Talis courage. Right.
“Thanks Mel.” His whisper filled with sincerity before starting to walk across the floor, thru the crowd, the harps chorus swelling on the floor. It didn’t help his heartbeat as he got closer, each string ratcheting the rate.
But He could do this. It was fate after all.
--
Fuck were there no chairs? There had to be, Viktor just couldn’t see them due to some snobby blond who insisted on debating his price differences in Piltover in comparison to Zaun residents. Heimerdinger tried to derail the nobodies line of questioning- but apparently he’s determined to have a conversation that he has explained to these entitled assholes many times over the years. Leaning on his cane more than he’d like, Viktor rolled his eyes once again. His leg was already starting to act up despite the calm carriage ride earlier, prickles of pain running up his thigh and Viktor just wanted a drink.
“Well Viktor? Don’t you think it would be fair to lower your prices considering the obvious imbalance?” The puffed up head piece said with a sneer that could peel paint to match. Viktor tightened the hold on his cane, eyes narrowed to a bale filled glare.
“You listen here you-“ His hiss however, was interrupted, when the snob got a hand on his shoulder and Viktors eyes went up to see who else wished to be murdered this evening.
Intellectually. Of course.
Hazel eyes, a strong jaw, military perfect haircut, and smile so bright it showed off a gap between teeth filled Viktors vision. He furrowed his eyebrows at the well dressed man intruding as he tried to place him. The professor seemed to be happy to see the new addition.
“Salos! I’m sorry to hear about your financial trouble.” Well at the very least this man’s voice wasn’t unpleasant to listen too. It was a deep timbre, warm in a way that made him think of hot cider. Certainly, went well with his attire, the pine button up he sported made with sturdier fabric than other guests. Delicate bronze lines made geometric cuts that called to Piltover, of efficiency, and symmetry that the man had in spades. Broad shoulders emphasized further by the pinned chocolate fabric, exuding a strength Viktor rarely saw Topside. That smile was extremely familiar, at ease even with the tight grip he had on Mr. Snob. Who now seemed instantly on the back foot, puffing up his chest like an ill dove.
“W-what? I have No financial trouble’s Talis!” Then it clicked. Viktor felt himself stiffen at the realization- same time the tall councilman turned his gaze to his. Hazel ringed with gold, smile that was teasing, like the idiot in Talis’s grasp was a comedian. He felt undressed. Strange.
He straightened his posture as much his screaming leg would allow, steeling himself in the stare down.
Jayce Talis. Man of Progress, and Piltover’s golden boy. Beacon of Security.
Viktor didn’t even think it was a win when the other broke first, when he merely went back to the captured blond in his grip with the same polite grin that every poster or odd blimp had the likeness of in Piltover. Soothing voice lowering when Mr. Snobs indignation earned him a response.
“Then leave economics to more suited Council Salos. I’m sure Mel would love to hear them.” He’d never met Councilman Talis face to face, but Viktor also dealt with intimidation tactics daily to notice. Mr. Snob shot him one more bitter glare before leaving in a huff.
Couldn’t even take a single threat, pathetic.
Viktor shifted, about to make an attempt at escape before being dragged into another conversation, but his old professor was having none of it. Giving a thankful huff to Talis- who had yet to quit staring at him.
“Thank you for the assist my boy”
Councilman Talis softened at the gratitude, eyes slipping from his for only a moment to shake Heimerdinger’s hand.
Viktor tapped his cane forward to slip away- the professor would forgive him if he went to sit. Wherever that was. Besides, his wrist felt strange. He didn’t dare look in public, and it wasn’t a burn- he knew the time. It was as if the tick of a clock started tapping at his skin, his fate on reverb in his head. Right as the bronzed councilman started speaking.
But that made no logical sense. Was it his illness reacting with it? Was his own body so repulsed at the thought it was playing with his mind? He tried to think of the texts years prior he poured over until late morning, nothing coming up relevant.
“Viktor- before you run off.”
His professor caught him easily, pausing his steps, and truly poor choice of words. The furry dean gestured to back to Jayce, who looked more like an excited undergrad then a councilman. He put out his hand for Viktor to shake,
“Toymaker Viktor, I’m truly honored to meet you. Your artistry shines during this season.” The introduction stopped his whirling mind, of variables linked to magic. The ticking faintly melding with the others words, the almost giddy smile he had leaving Viktor to tilt his head confused. Shaking his hand on autopilot at the added politeness, the ghostly tap matching the heat that pulsed thru the councilman’s glove.
“Did you just. Make up a title for me, Councilor Talis?” Jayce had the decency to look embarrassed, rubbing his neck. It reminded him of a puppy who got caught ripping the curtains.
“I- well- Viktor of Zaun makes you sound-“ Viktor interrupted the floundering, raising an eyebrow. Curious.
“Mysterious? Oh or do you mean dangerous?” He questioned, nothing accusatory- yet. Heimerdinger looked like he wanted to step in again, but Jayce kept his gaze. Mouth hanging open in surprise when that teasing flicker passed thru his eyes again, and he laughed. Low like the thudding of a drum.
“I wanted to say detached. You deserve acknowledgement for your work.” Viktor didn’t catch any of the condescension that usually came with that kind of remark. Just a casual statement, but he still felt the need to push. To prod at the man who seemed too comfortable with him for a first meeting.
“By taking away my attachment to home- How considerate.” His snark failing to pull a reaction, besides the other humming in thought. As if it was an actual debate. Hand finally pulling away, those hazel eyes following the movement as his did the same. Jayce’s grin filling with more bashfulness at being caught staring.
“I would never want that.” He started awkwardly, “But if you are calling me by my job I feel like yours deserves respect as well. Can I apologize over a drink?” Jayce nodded his head over behind him, where Viktor finally spotted the set up for the bar and some seats. He knew accepting was a bad idea, but it was a faint voice against the promise of a little bit of rest from the inquisitive crowd. He looked to his professor first though, because Viktor only just realized this exchange seemed strange possibly. Heimerdinger’s eyes looking everywhere but him however.
“O-oh, well actually Viktor I have some people I have to talk to. But I will talk with you two later ok? Have fun and be merry!”
And like that the small dean was gone- he felt a small pang at the abandonment. They only barely started catching up when the blonde idiot showed up. Viktor wanted to talk about science, about what Heimerdinger may be working on at the academy, it’s been long since he’s had a good discussion that didn’t end with him having his clothes covered in paint after all.
If the councilor saw his brief flash of disappointment, he didn’t bring it up. Instead offering his arm with another poster grin, Viktor rolled his eyes and walked past. The tap from his cane a notch louder on this tile, or from the attempt at help.
“Another bias we can discuss Councilor Talis. Now follow along- or I might just find myself trapped in more dull conversation.”
--
Viktor wasn’t surprised often. Tonight he expected to get himself drunk, forget what idiot he would be tomorrow, and celebrate the holiday giving out toys to children in the morning. Instead however, he was chatting over drinks that had barely been touched. Councilor Talis wanting to ask about his work, his thought process, digging thru Viktors surface answers to get him to explain in detail. His face lighting up when he mentioned the oven his used to smelting, a small but powerful thing he was gifted when the shop opened. They talked about melting points, attachment styles for joints, it was- surprising.
He wasn’t about to let his guard down completely of course. Jayce may act like a simple smith, but he was still on the council. Silco had shown him the papers after each ‘Progress Day’, and how easily the Talis fit into a designer of death for Zaun. Designing weapons, and reinforcing polices that on paper were normal, but in practice were shoddy unless executed Perfectly. Not enough factors accounted for, unsurprising since Jayce loved being in his lab when not bungled with council work.
As he had made a habit of mentioning over the last drink.
It made his uneasiness sharpen, and Viktor decided bluntness was the best option. Rubbing his brace absentmindly, he sighed, waving his free hand to Talis. He was dancing around something, and it was frankly not the time or the not to do so.
“Alright, say your piece Councilor Talis.”
Jayce had the sense to look hurt, press skills coming in full tilt he assumed, nursing his drink with a softer smile. The scent of cinnamon and cloves permeated the air to accompany his words.
“Toymaker Viktor-“
Viktor cut him off with a raised eyebrow, voice low and as cold as the frost.
“False titles will have me bored Councilor.” A warning, one he didn’t extend to many nowadays. Why did Jayce make him feel comfortable enough to prod instead of disengaging? It made no sense, not truly. Viktors free hand started tapping lightly on the table with his thoughts, soon enough his emerald bracelet, a polished ouroboros unhinged and started weaving between his distracted fingers. He didn’t even take notice, the motion as practiced as breathing now, but Jayce’s hazel eyes followed the movement with intrigue. With that warm familiarity.
“That’s an impressive little thing.” He remarked, and only then did Viktor give the councilor a small – nostalgic grin.
“A gift from my apprentice. Apparently this is better than finger tapping.”
The answer was dry, sarcastic, but it drew that low drum of a chuckle from Jayce. Who rested his head in his palm, looking younger somehow when not putting on the pomp that was at least the front persona of the Talis. Jinx had given it to help keep his fingers nimble, she had seen is hands after too many nights. The shaking, the numb motions. His young pupil learned how to cover her reasons though, saying she wanted to show her progress in joint work with the device. It helped more than just his joints, but his wandering mind. He must have been admiring the piece for a beat too long, when the cider warm voice lowered further in unexplained affection.
“You really do love your work, after leaving the Academy?” Jayce asked, gently, his own face showing his befuddlement. Viktor stopped his motion, the little snake reattaching to his wrist as his mind ground to a halt. No one Topside brought up his time after he left besides Heimerdinger, and even then, rarely. It was as if he was erased from attendance to every other Piltie, even if he had graded some of their papers then. Looked over their homework. Yet here the young Councilor was staring at him with a look he’s sure he’s seen in his students’ eyes when she saw Ekko, or Isha.
“It keeps me busy” Viktor finally muttered the half-truth before he continued. “And…it is job that is need in Zaun. Despite how Kitschy it might seem here.” His accent growing heavier at the truth, taking a sip from his glass. His home deserved light. Deserved comforts that seemed unessential. They deserved to not have to survive, but to live. A toy was a small thing in comparison while he worked.
“I wouldn’t say that, but, Viktor” How could a man who looked like a military recruitment poster sound so caring, concerned? Brushing his hand against Viktors on the table with a feather touch, analytical gaze skimming over his self made brace. “Don’t you think you can do more for them? Here.”
His timer came back into his mind. The ticking fell out of beat with Jayce’s question, the tapping began anew, raising the intensity of the hot indignation that question brought forth. Viktor schooled his face, clicking his tongue in annoyance.
“And what would You have me do Councilor Talis? You, whose become the Forge for Zauns Frustrations and Pain.” His words spit low, bitter, and Viktor took a chunk of satisfaction seeing the sadness that bloomed on Jayce’s face. “Viktor That’s never been-“ He wouldn’t allow him to defend himself. Not when Viktor’s head was starting to bloom again as the melodious harps crashed against the ticking, the tapping.
“It hasn’t? Then what about those glitchy oversized punch gloves you announced? Think dropping those into my city will bring happiness? Solve the heating crisis? Or will they just explode and clear out a block of the rats you Pilites can’t seem to see?”
“I was talking about your bluepr-“
The conversation was halted when a young man came over to them, looking to Viktor nervously with a phone. Jayce practically deflated when he took his focus from him, but he was already eyeing up the kid who was stuttering nervously in his little Christmas vest.
“Im sorry, sirs. Theres a call for Viktor of Zaun.”
He hated how Jayce’s words echoed. Detached. Viktor would rather be detached from Piltover. From those blueprints that were so easily brushed over in the past, but somehow finding a new home with someone like Talis.
“Hand it over then.”
The device was handed with rushed hands, and Viktor tried to calm the off beat ticking in his skull. Focusing on keeping his tone even as he answered.
“Viktor speaking.”
“Glad to hear, that boy practically pissed himself hearing my name.” That anger that filled his veins froze hearing the smoke riddled voice of Silco. His own lowering while Viktor grabbed his cane. This was not a casual call.
“What’s happened? Is Jinx ok?” he implored, quietly into the receiver. Jayce was staring again, that worry etching into his features. He really shouldn’t be after their argument. Viktors flagrant disregard for his rank.
“She’s fine.” Despite the edge to the answer, a reminder of a boundary Silco crossed daily, Viktor felt a weight unravel at the answer. “But. There has been an incident at the shop. I would suggest leaving now.” The threat was vague, both knowing what laid within his little workshop. All his designs for his own illegal tinkering, his ideas for switching of heating systems, the new water filtration updates… his old timer research.
He grit his teeth, the reminder being too stark of what dominos may fall tonight.
“On my way.”
Viktor did not even say goodbye to the Councilor as he ended the call, tossing the phone back to the boy who barely could look him in the eyes.
--
Thankfully Heimerdinger allowed him the carriage ride back, leaving Viktor to stew. 8 hours, 23 minutes on his wrist. The sound of cheerful carols from Topside leaking thru the windows along with any heat that was at the party. Their twinkling decorations slowly fading before crossing the bridge, shifting to messily made snowmen that refused to melt. To a darkness only broken by the small bouts of garland in doorways and the stubborn sprouts of holly that now poked thru the uneven pavement. 2 years prior there wasn’t even that.
It was quiet when he returned to the shop, one perk of being placed in the shopping district Viktor supposed. Once he got out, the driver seemed reluctant to leave.
The door to the shop was off it’s hinges. Splatters of purple smeared in messy streaks in the stone leading into his home. Viktor waved off the nervous man once more with his cane, lips twitching in disdain at the pity he saw before the vehicle pulled off. The wind and its’ child pushed him to limp inside, thankful that at the very least there was silence other then the odd jingle of copper bells outside.
It had to be Reveck if it was organized. The way the Shimmer drips made a path over his floorboards, the throw rugs that Jinx picked thrown to the side. The displays with boats shaded in sapphire and metallic hues, with nutcrackers that looked like Yordles of varies shapes and a rainbow of colors, all untouched as Viktor trudged determined past the cash register.
“Now what happened..?” He muttered, his panic thudding in the back of his head when he saw his chest. The twelve-lock system was all but dissolved under a sticky, magenta substance. His mind wished for once he had a full lab to test it; The viscous liquid seemed similar to the Shimmer on the floors as far as he can tell but-more corrosive? The blood stains next to it however had his stomach dipping, Silco’s crew must have corrected the situation.
The lack of explosions show Jinx was thankfully not contacted. The young girl would have insisted he join her- or that she watch him. He could practically hear her now.
Ya old Geezer- who else is gonna help ya? Can’t have ya keeling over-
Opening his chest with care, Viktor saw his recent plans untouched. His mind slowed for a moment, sighing thankfully when it closed. Next steps replacing the panic, he had to clean up this mess. The door especially he had to-
Crack
He didn’t even hesitate to click the button on his cane, the hidden blade popping from the bottom. Viktor taking a harsh swing to whatever- or whoever decided to walk in behind him.
Wide hazel eyes with a ring of gold were his last guess.
“I thought you didn’t make weapons?” Jayce asked, smile sheepish as he kept his eyes on the blade at his throat.
“That doesn’t mean I cannot utilize them when someone is breaking into my shop Councilor Talis.” Viktor admonished under his breath. The councilor pouted- honest to gods pouted. He removed the blade, the metal retracting back. He was an annoyance, not a threat.
“I just wanted to make sure you were ok. You left in a hurry.” Jayce explained, taking a cursory glance at his shop Viktor can sense his unease. “Do I need to call a squad-?”
“The issue was taken care of.” He cut off, wincing as he stood back up from the floor. His brace was digging in- a loose screw, a bent connector. No time. Never enough. Even if the councilor spotted his tense posture with that puppy dog expression, it seems even after their insignificant time together he knew to shut his mouth.
“Well can I at least repair the door?” Said opening creaked loudly, barely holding on by a single bent hinge. Viktor couldn’t stop himself from taking a shot at Jayce, the man seeming lost amidst the metallic tang of Shimmer and tossed furniture.
“Going back to your roots Talis?” He drawled, the bronzed man stiffened in embarrassment with a flush under his cloak. Viktor felt his lips tip up when Jayce shifted his eyes to the workbench instead, grabbing a screwdriver and a small hammer.
“Maybe I like the connection to home.” The soft, teasing words seemed filled with unknown meaning, or maybe one to close to his own. A similarity Viktor didn’t wish to acknowledge. He swallowed the odd tension in his throat when Jayce’s mouth curved into a soft smile before turning away to the door.
It is not often Viktor is left at a loss for words. But he still had work to do, and another issue came seeing a divergent path of the Shimmer. Jayce was speaking about something while he worked on the door. Something about adding a new lock or a blast seal, it started to sound like static when he went around his work table and followed the scratches, the tang of iron and steel that didn’t taste right in the nose.
He cursed when the fear he had was found. The collection of toys him and Jinx had been working on since November were scattered along the floor. Most seemed repairable, a lost arm, a loose wheel, but an unfortunate amount were covered and dripping with the purple goo. Some already becoming deformed and burning under the drugs effects. It ate more at the metal than wood.
Like the substance was trying to find blood to burn.
Viktor cursed under his breath. Thanking himself that he didn’t remove his gloves getting home as he started to sort the toys that could be used. His old mentor didn’t care about children’s playthings obviously, throwing a fucking tantrum like Shimmer addicts at his doorstep. His mind was working out the timeline of what he could do, to repair everything useable would take too long as well as cleaning.
He heard Jayce behind him, sure footsteps that fell behind him when his fingers started to shake. Jinx’s paint being wiped away with the toxic purple. Glass from the music boxes were now in sharp pieces. A nutcracker Viktor made that looked like a specific yellow Yordle- the bottom jaw snapped off. Ticking in is head. Tapping on his wrist.
“Viktor.” It was a whisper, a permission when he felt the heavy hand on his shoulder. Sinking warmth into his unsteady form. He wiped his face before looking behind him, into the tall councilman’s own that was stitched in worry. His words felt thick trying to speak.
“I…Thank you for the door-“
“You have the bases to wash out this sludge right?” Jayce’s voice came back with that steady timbre. Hand squeezing his shoulder, and it felt nice to not have to acknowledge this vulnerability verbally. Viktor took a steadying breath, nodding “Yes. The closet down the hall. First door to the right.” The directions came out without thinking of why. The drug had to be neutralized before being cleaned. The risk of contamination too high not to. He had to get up. But his hands still felt stiff. Body refusing to move.
“Then I got it. Mom taught me young on cleaning chemicals out the forge, I can do this with my eyes closed.”
He was still a little dazed at the positive beat Jayce carried with him. Not even an hour had passed Viktor called him a Forge for Zauns Frustration and Pain, and now he’s offering to clean drug remnant out the floorboards? It was frustrating. Confusing.
But he couldn’t deny it was welcome. The little internal schedule of to do’s seeming more manageable with the disinfecting to someone else. Viktor refused to call in his pupil and ruin her holiday, darken another day or memory with what Silco shows, and the ticking was fading the more he saw the softness in Jayce’s confident grin that showed that little gap in the otherwise perfect teeth.
There was work to be done if Viktor wanted Christmas to run smoothly tomorrow. Sleep could wait.
“Fine. If you are sure Councilor Talis.” He muttered breaking their gaze when the other laughed. It made the bells outside sound dull in comparison.
The councilman paused in his descent into the hallway, “If I’m scrubbing your floors I’d prefer Jayce.” Apple cider warmth tinged at the back of Viktor’s neck at the ultimatum. Tone playful enough, but if he thought enough about it anymore he’s sure he’d question why the man cared. Titles and Houses and Patrons- all part of topside, security and the basis of hierarchy in their gilded city. Right now though Viktor would accept help from a practical stranger. The options were few and far between.
Jayce it was. Just for tonight.
--
5 hours and 13 minutes left with his timer. 5 hours left till Viktor would be bringing toys to the town center. As soon as Jayce came back with a bucket of chemicals for the soiled toys to soak- work had begun. The young councilman putting in an honest effort into the shop entrance and working back, the grunts of force heard putting a hidden smile to his face.
Because now he could think. 15 toys had been damaged beyond repair due to Shimmer, but Viktor grabbed all the ones he could work to his bench. He flipped the lid to his personal tools and slid on his magnifier for precision. The smell of the parasitic drug was fading into harsh lemon while he worked. A new pin into a nutcrackers jaw, a screw into the fresh wheel for a ship, carving a new ear for a sleepy rabbit. Assess, list, gather, and carve. It helped put his mind back into focus, and when he finished the last repairable trinket- a music box lid that detached, Viktor sighed content seeing it click closed. The porcelain ballerina only having a chip to her bronze slipper- unnoticeable to any child, the only hint of its near destruction.
“Your music boxes have always been a favorite of mine.” A ghost of heat on his shoulder, and Viktor must have been too wrapped in checking his creations to notice Jayce had joined him. Standing too close behind him, head practically resting on his shoulder to view the little ballerina with fondness.
He wouldn’t say that these were made with his assistant in mind. When his pupil had a snap from reality, muttering about how she wanted to see ballerinas. How whenever she dissected a junk radio she’d try to hear classic only to get static that had her pulling her braids. That when he gave the first one- more wooden than the intricate glass of later models, Jinx hugged it close like it would disappear in a puff of smoke. The tune played in the shop for weeks.
He let out a tired chuckle at the memory, assessing Jayce with a sarcastic tick of an eyebrow.
“I make the ballerinas by melting your mugs you know.” Viktor bit his lip to stop his laughs as Jayce pulled back with an offended stutter. He only noticed now when the man’s brows knitted together in mock offense, that one had a small cut in it.
“I- Wait That’s how-?” He puffed out, be it in shock or amusement though was hard to tell when that open mouth grin made another appearance.
Viktor hummed, shrugging “What can I say ‘Man of Progress’? Your face makes lovely ballet shoes.” His mouth curled into a smirk, but at this late hour the exhaustion was starting to hit. His back was tense from so long being hunched over the meticulous repairs. Dragging his attention to the progress Jayce had made was- immaculate. The boards glimmering like the shop had just opened, and the young councilor seemed to have taken it upon himself to try to right the tossed furniture to their supposed spots.
The rug was in front of the bookshelf now, the rocking chair in the same corner making a nook. The door now polished so deeply the copper designs Viktor had added showed once more, intricate swirls he pressed into the edges, and small lizards near the bottom of the frame.
He had been going on 2 hours of sleep over the last 48, just completing his first breakthrough with the ventilation systems when those lizards from his childhood popped into his head.
“You work effectively Jayce.” Viktor said, yawning and stretching his back. The protests with each pop made a painful surge down him spine but it’s a needed sacrifice. Jayce sensed the tension, and while a dust of pink still graced his cheeks he returned to Viktors side. “High praise from you I imagine.” A light smirk of his own burrowed into Viktors eyes, before it was replaced with that more cordial smile. Strong hands resting on the arm of his chair as the voice softened. ”What’s next? You need a break?” It wasn’t said with pity, and with the proximity Jayce destroyed it sounded. Intimate?
God he needed caffeine- driving away the odd thoughts with a playful smack of his cane to the others leg so Viktor could stand. Jayce winced but fell back with a barely there snort.
“I am going to make some cocoa. I have toys to replace now, and that is going to take longer than simple repairs.” He said, tapping his cane definitively “But I’m sure you have family to head to Jayce. I am fine.” He had done more than enough, but here was Jayce once again shuffling. Hazel eyes avoiding his own, rubbing his neck nervously.
“I-…I can smelt metal pieces. If you need any?”
Viktor sighed, cocking his head to the side. This man. Something was amiss. “I will. But why?” He was limping past him, because he was not going to stand if he wasn’t at least getting a holiday special. Settling against the alcove that a compact stove was nestled in, gathering the ingredients as he listened to Jayce stumble out an excuse.
“Well- I-…I never apologized. For demeaning your work.”
“I also called you a war criminal in more creative language. But I am not apologizing.”
“I…I assumed the best intentions with the council. I still do- but. I just want to work on something that matters. That changes lives-” Viktor almost wanted to crane his head out his cramped kitchenette when Jayce paused, to see his face, to read the emotions the other has been so open with showing tonight. He stayed though, watching his sweet milk steam. He continued after a beat. "Your blueprints were inspired. Heimerdinger showed me your older ones too.” He crumpled the dark chocolate harshly, trying to ignore the heat in his cheeks. His first ideas were less than polished, half worked sketches of medical equipment or a prosthetics. Variables unchecked, materials never tested due to being tossed too soon.
Jayce’s voice called to him again while he stirred, the sweet scent of his concoction making Viktor relax. “It pushed my own personal projects. Which- sounds selfish. But I just wanted to talk to you for so long and-“ Too many emotions tonight. Viktor’s mind feeling frayed at how Jayce could sound so pained. Like a piece of him was ripped open. When he still had much to do tonight, and a future he didn’t wish to focus on.
“If you wanted a cup of cocoa you could have asked Jayce. No need for the dramatics.” Viktor replied with false resignation, revealing an extra mug topped with whipped cream and a small ginger biscuit laid in. A perfect match to his own.
He would not admit he made the second cup without thinking, especially seeing how Jayce’s eyes widened when he accepted the drink. Usually this was him and Jinx’s holiday indulgence, when the chill was a bit too much. It got more eccentric as his blue hair prodigy added toppings over the years. It looked ridiculous in the tall councilors hands, but Viktor grabbed his own before hobbling back to his bench. Nibbling on the biscuit as he dragged a box of unfinished toys from under the table. Half carved, gears unnotched, partial parts stared back.
The best bet for completing anywhere close to on time.
And while Viktor allowed himself a single moment to enjoy the warm beverage, sweetness mixing with the ginger a welcome refrain from the night so far, he almost choked hearing an inappropriately loud groan from Jayce. Who now sported a whipped cream mustache as well.
“Holy shit what is in this Viktor? I feel like I just got shot with electricity.”
He rolled his eyes, picking up one of the unfinished pieces out of the box.
“That would be the three shots of espresso.”
Viktor chose to ignore the feeling of those hazel eyes on him. Practically seeing the raised eyebrow aimed at his head when he put back on his magnifier.
“…How has your heart not stopped?” Jayce asked, and that phantom tapping on his wrist felt almost warm at the amused and soft tone those words were laced with. Instead focusing on the hollow, he was making for the necessary gears for a boat.
“I’m a Zaunite, Councilor. I’m going to pass from a multitude of things before silly treats like sugar or caffeine.” Viktor grumbled hitting a small knot in the word, and he didn’t look behind him. He heard choked sound the councilor tried to hide before the easy thrum of the oven flaring again replaced it.
Jayce didn’t offer him pity. Or ask for details. He asked where molds were, where his metal stock was. They fell into another wave of comfortable work, the soothing carve of wood, of the rush of hot air making the otherwise cool temperature of the shop warm. The hiss of pouring hot metal, it felt natural oddly enough. The councilor didn’t complain while notching the gears, but told stories under his breath about the family forge.
About how it was comforting to feel the lick the flames for hours. How his mother almost put him into art courses before he expressed interest in engineering. Little things that Viktor barely acknowledge with a spar hum and haw, his mind fuzzing at the edges as those comfortable mumblings melded with the mysterious ticking. His own practiced motions taking precedence as he finished another piece that just waited for the gears and other metal pieces needed to cool.
He wasn’t paying attention when that same voice came thru the work fog asking something so casually Viktor’s brain didn’t clock the need for suspicion.
“So, You never found an energy to work with Timers? Too unstable or not enough juice?”
“Both actually-“ His words died when the question finally caught up to him.
Wait
Ice crept up Viktors spine, putting down an almost finished nutcracker to spin in his chair.
Jayce was kneeling by his chest, unopened. But the catalyst showed with a small grouping of papers that were peaking from under it, and one was in the councilors hands. Those hazel eyes looking over his old scribbles with an open fascination.
His soul timer research.
“Do you always like snooping Jayce?” He bit out, wincing when he used his cane to get up faster then Viktor should have. The taller man finally snapping out of his perusing to have a small flush on his face. His once perfect hair was out of place now from the heat and work with the oven.
“No- no, I finished the metalwork, and I saw these pages on the floor I just thought I would put them away-“
“Well its done. Childish nonsense. So Stop Reading.” He tried to grab the page, the glimpse he could see Viktor knew it was his notes of energy outputs. How to tap into the connection with just the right source. His own experiments leading to the skin around his timer being scarred with burns from the various attempts. Not that Heimerdinger knew then he was going that far in his academy days. That page detailed uses, extremely taboo uses in academia and even Zaun. Soulmate timers were sacred to most, in some way or another. To attempt to dissect it for other means- even helpful means- was frowned upon.
And for the Councilor in charge of fucking Safety to be ogling his albeit Abandoned research was cracking the fragile calm that had set over his spiraling holiday night.
But Jayce wasn’t looking at with disapproval. Disgust. Or even confusion. When his eyes finally met his they were almost sparkling with questions, that open curiosity that made him seem innocent again. The hunger for debate and knowledge Viktor used to feel with a feral intensity.
“Viktor, did you ever think of utilizing wild magic for it?” he asked, rushed and reverent.
“Wild magic-?” Viktor furrowed his eyebrows seeing Jayce dig a blue runestone out his pocket. It gleamed in the light, the foreign symbol winking at him. “Your personal project? You’ve been trying to work with the Arcane?” That wide grin was all the answer he needed, and despite all the reservations he should be having about a man like Jayce Fucking Talis tinkering with wild magic- all the problems it could cause…his equations started coming back to him.
“Yes, I thought if I could stabilize rune crystals it could be a source of pure energy. No runoff- no excess- no changing of batteries or coal! It could make pollution practically fall overnight.” Jayce explained, and his enthusiasm was infectious. Pocketing the crystal he gestured to Viktors old work in his hand. “But nothing has been working. I have been getting sparks and cracks and frankly too many explosions that even Heimer is getting suspicious.”
“If we can link the frequency of your rune crystals to the ones embedded in a person’s Soul timer. You wouldn’t have to worry about continuous stabilization.” Viktor theorized under his breath. “It would stay stable upon activation when in presence of a Timer.” Jayce was staring at him like he hung the moon and told him Santa was real, and that ticking was back in his head again. Oh fuck what time was it?
“Tell me you’ll work with me on this.” Why was a councilor’s voice sounding like a Plea?
“Jayce.” He surprisingly kept his voice firm. His knuckles white with how tight his grip had gotten on his cane. Viktor licked his lips, This was too much. A setup surely.
But clean energy thru magic. Potentially so much more? It was a Hell of a carrot to lead with. The other looked so taken, practically waiting on bated breath for Viktors answer, it felt sincere. His heart was racing- and his eyes finally found the clock on the wall.
3hrs and 42 minutes.
“You have until 7 am to convince me your crystals aren’t just bombs. If you do. I will.” The offer was made evenly, before Viktor could tear his eyes away from the excitement on Jayce’s face. The man was already zooming around his space for chalk, anything to write with at all while he sat back at his table. All he had were the finally steps with the boats and nutcrackers he was able to carve and piece together. With the metal finally cooled, and the councilor having placed them close by as he started his presentation, Viktor allowed himself to feel the buzz of excitement that seemed to follow his companion of the night like a plague.
--
The image of Jayce Talis had shifted drastically in those few hours. Though he would admit that the entire evening the man had shifted his perspective on him. Viktor still saw the sparks of ego, hubris that came with having the council on his side- from being the cities Golden Boy, but it was dampening with his desperation for change. The way he spoke of his secret project- the crystals, it was as if Jayce could speak electricity into the air with his passion. Shooting off theories that Viktors sure he’s reviewed so many times it’s by rote.
It reminded him of when he first joined the Academy, the way Viktor felt a pull to bounce idea’s off Jayce as he explained his work. It made his hands steadier, his focus sharpen while he attached needed wires and screws. Melding panels and indenting details into delicate pieces while numbers and calculations shot back and forth thru the air.
But It was still an insane proposition. And for someone like Jayce- a Topsider to be working on something like it… he couldn’t ignore the churn in his gut. Talis, for all he’s shown him tonight, still had made his public career on making weapons, on being on a safety commission. Viktor bit his lip as the time was getting closer, and he finished the last pin in the final rabbit. These were going to be similar to his first creations- all pure wood and metal tones. Smooth and perfectly functional, the whimsey to be discovered by the child.
A warm hand graced his shoulder when he put down his magnifier. A hopeful- low voice in the otherwise silent shop. It wasn’t the first time Viktor had pulled in all nighter, but usually he would be stumbling in after avoiding enforcers from his forced updates to Zauns dilapidated supports. Progress he’s made by himself. Designs He’s sketched By Himself for years. Even with the chains of silence that came with Silco in the shadows. He’s been making his home better on his own, in spite of Topside- of Piltover. But the ease of that weight on his shoulder made everything a little heavier, a call to share the burden this once.
“So? Can you be my partner? We can do this together.” Jayce’s smile was that same excitable energy he had when he was speaking of the first trials he ran. Of attempts that left in explosions in his lab but a new theory to test, and he swallowed his exhaustion.
He was tired of inching towards his home’s safety. Of clawing in the dark in hopes of that tomorrow. Of delaying Silco’s less veiled attempts to rope him into weapons for Zauns side instead. Of worrying every day that Jinx or Ekko or Isha would be another young casualty in this power imbalance.
This was a leap. It could be insanity- just a repeat of his failures years prior. The skeptical part of him screamed this could still be a trap, an elaborate ruse, but as at the party, it was drowned out by the idea of what could be.
“I need in writing this will never be used for weapons.” Viktor stated, brushing off the bulkier hand. It did not dissuade Jayce. His face practically beaming now.
“Of course! Once I’m back home I can write it up- oh and I even have a name idea I wanna run by you.”
“We are still working in the theoretical- and you are worried about marketing?” he huffed, such a Piltie mindset. The beginnings of morning starting to creep thru the windows while his new ‘partner’ tripped over his words.
“I- That’s not-“
“It’s a joke Jayce. What is it.” Viktor tipped his lips up in a rarer smile before gathering the finished replacement toys to put with the rest. He would soon have to head out, the faint sound of Zaunite carols could be heard if he listened hard enough. Early risers wanting to see the tree that Jinx and Vi helped decorate a week ago in the center.
“…HexHeart.” The embarrassed mumble was cute, and he had to stop himself from openly laughing. Thankfully his back was turned while moving the toys to the cart he’d made. It was bulky and covered in bouts of spray paint, the multiple attempts by Jinx to make it less like a minecart. Never quite worked but the most recent addition of the cartoony bells and smiley faces were a valiant effort.
His leg was worse for wear even with him sitting. Lack of rest, the stress, but with everything else Viktor couldn’t complain. He could crawl into bed after. After his fate was sealed in less than 32 minutes when he’s supposedly to fall in love like some fairy tale resting on the bookshelf.
For some reason, that acknowledgement felt less horrifying than it did twelve hours ago.
“It’s good Jayce. A bit sentimental though don’t you think?”
Sounds were getting louder, and considering the break in last night Viktors sure Silco will have people coming to check soon. Jayce had to leave back to his snow swept streets before someone spotted him. Not that the labrador given human form seemed to notice, instead coming to stand beside him to look between Viktor and his cart with a barely concealed worry.
“So…You haul this to the city center? I’ve never seen it.” He began, the feigned interest very obvious. “Maybe I can push the cart for you? And I can see more of what you do?”
Viktor pinched the bridge of nose, closing his eyes. Jayce was doing puppy dog eyes. He didn’t even have to guess. After spending a night chatting and debating this man it was right in his wheelhouse.
The publicly strong armed councilor was such a Bad negotiator in real life. No wonder those policies were so idealistic, another thing he might discuss with Jayce later. Viktor sighed.
“Jayce. You are a councilor that is despised here. How are we supposed to collaborate if you are strangled with tinsel?” It was supposed to lighten the mood. To show how ridiculous Jayce helping would be. When Jayce puts his hand on top of his on the cart however, Viktor realizes he might have sounded worried about an early end to a partnership.
“…I want to see Zaun how you do.” Apple cider sweetness- pitched low with a resolution that drew an annoyed groan from him. He did Not have time for this. Viktor clicked his tongue disapproving when his own broke “My assistant has body paint in the bathroom. You want to join? We need to give you a holiday update.”
Anyone else would freeze when Viktor got that analyzing look in his eyes. When pointed at any breathing thing- besides Jinx or Silco, he’d be met with a skittering and sputtering.
Jayce looked at him with fondness, and a laugh that sent tingles down to their intertwined fingers.
“And I thought only she painted? Can’t wait to see what you do.”
--
It was a rushed job, and Viktors sure isn’t taking over painting from Jinx any time soon, but its workable. Jayce’s distinctive bronze skin was now a deep maroon, with a couple of black streaks around his striking eyes that curled to look almost devilish. Viktor grabbed a pair of ringed horns that he made during the fall, painted in a matte onxy and attached them to the large mans head with a few well placed pins. Slipping the other back into his cloak to cover up the glaringly Piltovian partywear, and…it worked. At least enough for what was needed.
“Doesn’t Krampus kidnap children? Won’t this scare them?”
Viktor shrugged, guiding Jayce and the cart out the shop. He gave a nod to passing shopkeep.
“Krampus is a Helper to the holiday. Here we put him on Christmas cards.” He chided with no heat.
The walk to the square was filled with them conversing about their new project- potential tests they could conduct, frequency changes between Timers that are active and inactive; Easily interspursed with his new partners questions on the decorations they passed, the minute amount of early morning sunlight showing every small bit of whimsy his fellow Zaunites could show before the mines whistle would blare.
It felt. Easy. Natural to converse with Jayce like this. It might be his exhaustion, but the ticking in his head was softening as they reached the square, the sounds of children’s laughter squeezing his heart. The cold didn’t hurt as much when he was distracted, the wind whipping around the bustling area and cobblestones barely making a twinge in his leg.
Jayce straightened up when people started to notice his arrival, and gaggles of little ones ran up to Viktor with smiles that melt even the most of ice patches. He stumbled a little when they went for his legs, and started sending narrowed eyed glances at the disguised companion.
“Mr.Viktor, Whose that??” one girl asked, stage whispering , and if Jayce wasn’t already painted red he’s sure the mans face would be crimson.
Viktor ignored him, instead tipping his lips into a conspiratory grin at the little eyes around him. “Oh I enlisted Krampus last night. He was so bored after his duties, and what’s more fun than seeing you all without need of a river?” The dark humor had Jayce’s eyes widening a notch, but the children fell into a fit of giggles.
He doesn’t think a man with such an intimidating stature could look so soft.
“Now who wants to see what I brought today?”
Jinx would be here soon Viktors sure. She and her sister making their own morning ritual, but Viktor fell into the swing of the pattern. His heart unclenching seeing toy after toy received with cheer, the clutching and squealing before running to the tree, or making Jayce into a new climbing instillation. Insistent questions making the poor man fumble worse than at the dance during their first altercation.
“K-kids watch the horns! I don’t poke eyes out!”
“No, just toss kids into a bag-“
“Viktor!”
Seeing those eyes, the desperate but amused smile the man had. A thought willed itself out of blue, he wouldn’t mind looking at that smile for longer. To find out more about Jayce. To learn more about the scientist behind the unwilling politician. Even if it was just to tease him to a stutter once more-
Tick.
His wrist burned, and Viktor stared at it accusatory when the realization hit like a freight train. He felt a reverb of emotions, joy, anxiety, love, and worry all bubbling like he was in a bell being knocked too and fro. Locking his gaze on Jayce- his breath came out heavy. The man giving him a small grin, the one that said all he needed to know.
The toys had been given out, and carols were played while the scent of roasted chestnuts whiffed thru the air.
“There you are.” Jayce whispered, wrapping an arm around Viktors waist. Slow. Careful, like he would run like a rabbit if spooked.
“How long?” Viktor asked.
“Lets just say I was worried.”
Viktor rested his forehead on the others. Huffing under his breath in amusement. This was going to cause so many problems he’s sure. There were so many conversations to still be had. There was still more trust to build, and not to mention if Silco or the council were aware of them it would be a headache. A hassle.
But amongst the snow and chill, he allowed himself the moment to soak in the warmth Jayce radiated. The rare bit of safety that flowed between their bond.
Finding each other on Christmas- Viktors not sure whether to add this story to the bookshelf it’s so cliché.