Jayce Talis (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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abraxaslogs2022-04-09 12:13 pm
hextechhead) wrote in abraxaslogs2022-04-09 12:13 pm
Though it takes about a week, Diana's strength does return to her. She's grateful when she wakes up feeling revitalized, relieved that she hasn't lost that connection to her home. And it means she can do so much more now than just wander around the outpost and Cadens, mapping them in her mind, and training when that becomes tiresome. The people who live in the outpost are mostly soldiers, and she feels comfortable among them. But those in the capitol's heart are so full of energy and life that she simply cannot stay away.
Any spare time she gives herself is spent among the people there: listening to visiting professors in any of the many museums, sampling the abundance of street food, and most often, simply helping out where she can. It's usually small things, like opening a door for an overburdened seamstress or reaching for something high up on an apothecary's shelf. Simple acts of kindness, but ones that help seal the crack in her heart--and ones that earn her no small amount of gratitude from those benefitting from her aid; she's been gifted a dress of simple make and fine fabric, and she wears it with pride. Plus, it's much more comfortable than the uniforms she's been wearing in the barracks.
Today, a wagon has stopped across the road from a merchant's shop, laden with furs and rugs. The driver is busy fiddling with a loose wheel on the cart, leaving his assistant to empty the wares. Diana's offer of help is considered and accepted in short order, and she holds her arms out with a little amusement as the assistant starts to pile wares up into her arms, so high that she can't see over them. But she still manages to navigate her way across the street without incident--well, mostly. She nearly runs into a young man she almost doesn't see, but pivots at the last moment to avoid toppling her burden over his head. She cranes her neck to the side:
"Sorry! are you alright?"
Any spare time she gives herself is spent among the people there: listening to visiting professors in any of the many museums, sampling the abundance of street food, and most often, simply helping out where she can. It's usually small things, like opening a door for an overburdened seamstress or reaching for something high up on an apothecary's shelf. Simple acts of kindness, but ones that help seal the crack in her heart--and ones that earn her no small amount of gratitude from those benefitting from her aid; she's been gifted a dress of simple make and fine fabric, and she wears it with pride. Plus, it's much more comfortable than the uniforms she's been wearing in the barracks.
Today, a wagon has stopped across the road from a merchant's shop, laden with furs and rugs. The driver is busy fiddling with a loose wheel on the cart, leaving his assistant to empty the wares. Diana's offer of help is considered and accepted in short order, and she holds her arms out with a little amusement as the assistant starts to pile wares up into her arms, so high that she can't see over them. But she still manages to navigate her way across the street without incident--well, mostly. She nearly runs into a young man she almost doesn't see, but pivots at the last moment to avoid toppling her burden over his head. She cranes her neck to the side:
"Sorry! are you alright?"
I presume your own forge would be the ultimate goal here, correct?
[He has a feeling about the right aswer, but it is wise to check all the same. Alucard has to wonder if Hector will cross paths with him and how it might go. Magic and forging are natural friends, after all.]
I do have to ask, have there been experiments with putting any spells into the cane itself to ease mobility? Either through the forging process itself or afterwards via inscriptions. I've been working with these things lately. [And want to gently throw something out there, just in case. Alucard's not going to interfere, but he isn't above a suggestion.
--Someone really didn't explain the Goro of it all, did they? Alucard is able to keep his face a careful blank.] If you're the one used to dealing with politics, it is probably better that you are the person to deal with it. I've not wanted to say something lest it sound as if I am passing judgement, since I have refused funding from the source in question, but my concerns have remained.
[He has a feeling about the right aswer, but it is wise to check all the same. Alucard has to wonder if Hector will cross paths with him and how it might go. Magic and forging are natural friends, after all.]
I do have to ask, have there been experiments with putting any spells into the cane itself to ease mobility? Either through the forging process itself or afterwards via inscriptions. I've been working with these things lately. [And want to gently throw something out there, just in case. Alucard's not going to interfere, but he isn't above a suggestion.
--Someone really didn't explain the Goro of it all, did they? Alucard is able to keep his face a careful blank.] If you're the one used to dealing with politics, it is probably better that you are the person to deal with it. I've not wanted to say something lest it sound as if I am passing judgement, since I have refused funding from the source in question, but my concerns have remained.
Yes, it'll be a good source of regular income. We have to get a better apartment and a better work space, plus fund our eventual projects, so it's a good pathway there.
[ They do live together and Jayce currently has to sleep on the very tiny floor in his very not-tiny body, so that honestly is first on the list. And they share the Horizon and workshop. Yet seven years later and Jayce is in no way sick of his partner's presence, he looks forward to it every morning. They really balance on another out well.
His eyes widen at Alucard's idea and the smile that comes is a flash of pure sunlight, warm and grateful. And right then and there, Jayce confirms in his heart that he likes this man. It takes a good heart to think that way, and he's glad Viktor found someone like that here. Anyone who is kind to his partner gets an automatic thumbs up from him regardless.]
That would be amazing, how would we do that? Can you do it yourself or can you give me a design to put into the cane? Obviously we will ask him, but any additional support could make a real difference.
[ The Goro situation was not clear to him but that is Viktor for you, and Jayce is not surprised in the least. It's why he asked someone else so he could get another point of view. He will handle that with Viktor later, and make it clear that it was not Alucard intentionally pushing the issue. Then again, Viktor knows him. Jayce is always the person pushing an issue. ]
I will handle the Goro situation. Thank you, Alucard. I can't tell you how glad I am that he found a friend here.
[ His sincerity is pure. ]
[ They do live together and Jayce currently has to sleep on the very tiny floor in his very not-tiny body, so that honestly is first on the list. And they share the Horizon and workshop. Yet seven years later and Jayce is in no way sick of his partner's presence, he looks forward to it every morning. They really balance on another out well.
His eyes widen at Alucard's idea and the smile that comes is a flash of pure sunlight, warm and grateful. And right then and there, Jayce confirms in his heart that he likes this man. It takes a good heart to think that way, and he's glad Viktor found someone like that here. Anyone who is kind to his partner gets an automatic thumbs up from him regardless.]
That would be amazing, how would we do that? Can you do it yourself or can you give me a design to put into the cane? Obviously we will ask him, but any additional support could make a real difference.
[ The Goro situation was not clear to him but that is Viktor for you, and Jayce is not surprised in the least. It's why he asked someone else so he could get another point of view. He will handle that with Viktor later, and make it clear that it was not Alucard intentionally pushing the issue. Then again, Viktor knows him. Jayce is always the person pushing an issue. ]
I will handle the Goro situation. Thank you, Alucard. I can't tell you how glad I am that he found a friend here.
[ His sincerity is pure. ]
I've forgotten that the housing situation takes a little bit of effort to deal with, in truth. [Beds are for losers, the ground is better.
And there it is. The opportunity to absolutely not get into what Alucard does for sleeping quarters, and thank goodness for it. He manages to hide his look of relief, focusing instead on the paper that has been abandoned. Alucard flips it over, the back still blank.
There's nothing to work through yet, but he's ready.]
That's a question I can't answer without design input from the intended user about what would make it easier for him. [Jayce you're the better person to ask.] Magic in my own sphere is best understood as an expression of will. Will sparks intent, and intent hooks and snarls itself into the world, resulting in magic. There are rare necromancers known as forgemasters, who can bring souls of the damned to the surface in this way, meaning that in theory, you can embed spellwork into your raw materials as you work them.
[Theory being the key word.] But that also limits how much you can change. Inscriptions with precise intent carved into the side would be easier, and probably simpler to modify as well, depending on the goal. Also less complicated from a creation standpoint, all things considered.
[Alucard can just scratch things into metal, that's easy.]
Everything I've said is public knowledge, save the refusal of funding. [For obvious reasons.] But dig into his particular platform before bringing it up. If only so you have the full picture, and not just a single biased source.
[Jayce you are one of the most genuine people he's met and it is absolutely screwing with him.] ==It's been nice to be around like minds.
And there it is. The opportunity to absolutely not get into what Alucard does for sleeping quarters, and thank goodness for it. He manages to hide his look of relief, focusing instead on the paper that has been abandoned. Alucard flips it over, the back still blank.
There's nothing to work through yet, but he's ready.]
That's a question I can't answer without design input from the intended user about what would make it easier for him. [Jayce you're the better person to ask.] Magic in my own sphere is best understood as an expression of will. Will sparks intent, and intent hooks and snarls itself into the world, resulting in magic. There are rare necromancers known as forgemasters, who can bring souls of the damned to the surface in this way, meaning that in theory, you can embed spellwork into your raw materials as you work them.
[Theory being the key word.] But that also limits how much you can change. Inscriptions with precise intent carved into the side would be easier, and probably simpler to modify as well, depending on the goal. Also less complicated from a creation standpoint, all things considered.
[Alucard can just scratch things into metal, that's easy.]
Everything I've said is public knowledge, save the refusal of funding. [For obvious reasons.] But dig into his particular platform before bringing it up. If only so you have the full picture, and not just a single biased source.
[Jayce you are one of the most genuine people he's met and it is absolutely screwing with him.] ==It's been nice to be around like minds.
Between his "official" work and the odd jobs he's taking on to make money on the side, Viktor doesn't have much time for personal projects. In many ways, that's not so different from back home, where the hexcore was his personal project (in more ways than one), but in its absence, and with Jayce lightening some of his workload, he finds himself with a few hours later at night that he feels compelled to fill. In between projects for other Summoned, reading, and drawing schematics, he finally manages to set aside some time to work on something for himself.
It's long overdue--Viktor's been using the crutch and braces they gave him upon arrival, which are functional but not specifically tailored to him. He's starting to feel it, and Jayce's arrival means that he probably shouldn't put it off any further. Well. No time like the present.
The day is, technically, over, at least in the sense that he expects no more visitors and can devote some uninterrupted time to this. Viktor has abandoned his vest and tie in favor of a loose-fitting shirt more suited to the heat (because, of course, on top of everything else they live in a desert now), hunching over one of the tables in the workshop, pieces of metal and leather strewn out in front of him. Everything is cut and shaped to specification, all the little screws and clasps and buckles and levers--now all that's left is to assemble.
Which he does, painstakingly, only pausing to switch tools, or to greet Jayce when he comes back to the workshop. It's no surprise that they're both here later at night--sleep is for when there is no work to be done, and Viktor isn't exactly racing to get back to their little single room above the inn.
"There should be a screwdriver in the tool chest, there. Can you hand it to me?"
Viktor stretches out a hand but otherwise doesn't look up, one of the advantages to their general synergy, something that he hadn't realized he missed until it was gone and found again.
It's long overdue--Viktor's been using the crutch and braces they gave him upon arrival, which are functional but not specifically tailored to him. He's starting to feel it, and Jayce's arrival means that he probably shouldn't put it off any further. Well. No time like the present.
The day is, technically, over, at least in the sense that he expects no more visitors and can devote some uninterrupted time to this. Viktor has abandoned his vest and tie in favor of a loose-fitting shirt more suited to the heat (because, of course, on top of everything else they live in a desert now), hunching over one of the tables in the workshop, pieces of metal and leather strewn out in front of him. Everything is cut and shaped to specification, all the little screws and clasps and buckles and levers--now all that's left is to assemble.
Which he does, painstakingly, only pausing to switch tools, or to greet Jayce when he comes back to the workshop. It's no surprise that they're both here later at night--sleep is for when there is no work to be done, and Viktor isn't exactly racing to get back to their little single room above the inn.
"There should be a screwdriver in the tool chest, there. Can you hand it to me?"
Viktor stretches out a hand but otherwise doesn't look up, one of the advantages to their general synergy, something that he hadn't realized he missed until it was gone and found again.
Jayce jumped right into things here in Cadens, already making a deal with a blacksmith for a trial freelancing job, looking through the museums, noting down classes of interest and people who might be helpful on the magic front. He also does odd jobs so between the two of them they are juggling a lot, but they like being busy. Jayce has spoken to several professors of medicine and has some ideas of what to do next, but his talk with Alucard has been on his mind. Especially when going back to the workshop, since they don't go to the inn until they are really ready to pass out.
Jayce runs very hot and he is used to heat, but he still is relieved when night comes and everything cools off. His long-sleeve shirts are always pushed up to the elbows now, creating a shorter option, and when he comes in he shucks his own vest and tie off. It's funny, them keeping these little key looks from home despite being in a desert, but sometimes the little things are what stay with you. He's even found clothes in red and white, although none really the patented Talis shades, but close enough.
Jayce is already moving from the moment Viktor says 'there should be a screwdriver' because he already knows where the rest of the sentence is going, handing Viktor the screwdriver a second after he finishes the question. That is their synergy right there, and he knows of course exactly what Viktor is putting together. They've been there before.
He leans his back into the table so he's right next to Viktor only faced the opposite way, all the screws and buckles will eventually be handed over to him anyway. Jayce, generally, likes this world. It's not that he's forgotten where they come from or what he left, but there is a lot to do and he doesn't spend a lot of time pondering their return. The fact that he is closing in on doing magic, real magic, means so much to him he could possibly forget everything else entirely.
Except it seems that some things from their world can't entirely be avoided, such as being funded by politicians with motivations of their own. Jayce glances over to him, still working out the way to frame it in words, musing instead of blurting things out. One of the few things that has changed.
"Alucard mentioned a way for magic to help the cane work better, if you like it, we could do something similar with these." What would it mean for Viktor, if his braces and his cane were all somehow magically advanced? If only for his comfort. It was a good idea.
Jayce runs very hot and he is used to heat, but he still is relieved when night comes and everything cools off. His long-sleeve shirts are always pushed up to the elbows now, creating a shorter option, and when he comes in he shucks his own vest and tie off. It's funny, them keeping these little key looks from home despite being in a desert, but sometimes the little things are what stay with you. He's even found clothes in red and white, although none really the patented Talis shades, but close enough.
Jayce is already moving from the moment Viktor says 'there should be a screwdriver' because he already knows where the rest of the sentence is going, handing Viktor the screwdriver a second after he finishes the question. That is their synergy right there, and he knows of course exactly what Viktor is putting together. They've been there before.
He leans his back into the table so he's right next to Viktor only faced the opposite way, all the screws and buckles will eventually be handed over to him anyway. Jayce, generally, likes this world. It's not that he's forgotten where they come from or what he left, but there is a lot to do and he doesn't spend a lot of time pondering their return. The fact that he is closing in on doing magic, real magic, means so much to him he could possibly forget everything else entirely.
Except it seems that some things from their world can't entirely be avoided, such as being funded by politicians with motivations of their own. Jayce glances over to him, still working out the way to frame it in words, musing instead of blurting things out. One of the few things that has changed.
"Alucard mentioned a way for magic to help the cane work better, if you like it, we could do something similar with these." What would it mean for Viktor, if his braces and his cane were all somehow magically advanced? If only for his comfort. It was a good idea.
Yeah, Viktor got a room that fit him temporarily, but it's way too small for both of us. I'm currently sleeping on the floor and I kind of take up a lot of space, including the majority of said floor.
[ Which may give an answer that Alucard didn't know for sure at this point, that they are not sharing a bed or have any 'private moments' to worry about currently. Jayce might talk about Viktor like he's everything to him, because to him that's the truth, but they have not crossed that barrier. There are bigger things to focus on. But Jayce smiles wryly when he says he takes up a lot of space, like his current height and bulk aren't obvious. But he's trying to joke around, bond. ]
I think that might be a conversation for you and Vik to have. He usually just hands me what he needs me to make. Although I'm really interested in it, because I'm interested in anything magic-related. I'll admit I'm not the best at precision, that is Viktor's side of things.
[ Jayce is the blunt side of things. He can create almost anything, he can dream up even more, but he has big calloused hands. As much as he can handle gears and details when he needs to, he's always handed the complex detailed changes to his partner. They really are a study in balance, in temperament, skill, and knowledge. ]
I will. Don't worry, I'll figure it out. I appreciate your honesty, I had a bad feeling about him.
[ And feelings are the type of thing that Jayce pays attention to. Maybe too much, but sometimes they do guide him in the right direction. Jayce is very genuine but he doesn't know how else to be. Even when he was playing the politics game well, it was still an extension of who he already is. But he knows he can be intense. He remembers to glance away from Alucard so the weight of his focused hazel-eyed attention drops away. ]
Are you a scientist too? I assume, from what you've said, that you're at least interested in it.
[ Which may give an answer that Alucard didn't know for sure at this point, that they are not sharing a bed or have any 'private moments' to worry about currently. Jayce might talk about Viktor like he's everything to him, because to him that's the truth, but they have not crossed that barrier. There are bigger things to focus on. But Jayce smiles wryly when he says he takes up a lot of space, like his current height and bulk aren't obvious. But he's trying to joke around, bond. ]
I think that might be a conversation for you and Vik to have. He usually just hands me what he needs me to make. Although I'm really interested in it, because I'm interested in anything magic-related. I'll admit I'm not the best at precision, that is Viktor's side of things.
[ Jayce is the blunt side of things. He can create almost anything, he can dream up even more, but he has big calloused hands. As much as he can handle gears and details when he needs to, he's always handed the complex detailed changes to his partner. They really are a study in balance, in temperament, skill, and knowledge. ]
I will. Don't worry, I'll figure it out. I appreciate your honesty, I had a bad feeling about him.
[ And feelings are the type of thing that Jayce pays attention to. Maybe too much, but sometimes they do guide him in the right direction. Jayce is very genuine but he doesn't know how else to be. Even when he was playing the politics game well, it was still an extension of who he already is. But he knows he can be intense. He remembers to glance away from Alucard so the weight of his focused hazel-eyed attention drops away. ]
Are you a scientist too? I assume, from what you've said, that you're at least interested in it.
Making you into a floor hazard, and someone likely to develop back problems.
[And Viktor has to balance the cane as well. Alucard can't actually imagine how well that's working out, and he isn't inclined to try.
Truth be told, he hadn't assumed anything about a relationship. If it was pertinent, someone would have told him (probably Jayce, Alucard can say that much with confidence.) All he can assume is that they fuond a temporary arrangement and it is not ideal.]
I'm not inclined to poke at someone's private medical matters. Nor do I carry the privilage of years of partnership there.
[Meaning, you ask, I'll come up with a design. Alucard doesn't pry because he doesn't want other people prying in turn. It is a code that has served him well in Cadens thus far.]
No one here is really good at the concept of subtle, you'll find.
[At least, no one that he has met. So Alucard leaves the matter be, happy to get away from it, truth be told.
A shake of his head no is the answer, but it deserves elaboration. Without too many details, admittedly.] I am not. My father was a polymath and my mother was a doctor, I was exposed to a number of the arts and sciences growing up, giving me a larger knowledge base than most.
[And Viktor has to balance the cane as well. Alucard can't actually imagine how well that's working out, and he isn't inclined to try.
Truth be told, he hadn't assumed anything about a relationship. If it was pertinent, someone would have told him (probably Jayce, Alucard can say that much with confidence.) All he can assume is that they fuond a temporary arrangement and it is not ideal.]
I'm not inclined to poke at someone's private medical matters. Nor do I carry the privilage of years of partnership there.
[Meaning, you ask, I'll come up with a design. Alucard doesn't pry because he doesn't want other people prying in turn. It is a code that has served him well in Cadens thus far.]
No one here is really good at the concept of subtle, you'll find.
[At least, no one that he has met. So Alucard leaves the matter be, happy to get away from it, truth be told.
A shake of his head no is the answer, but it deserves elaboration. Without too many details, admittedly.] I am not. My father was a polymath and my mother was a doctor, I was exposed to a number of the arts and sciences growing up, giving me a larger knowledge base than most.
Exactly. So that's problem number one to solve.
[ For someone who has never been poor, Jayce is pretty good at hustling when he needs to. And they definitely need to. He actively worries about Viktor hurting himself more tripping over him, but neither of them has suggested or even considered not staying in the same room.
Jayce gets what he means and nods. This is a good man, he intends to tell Viktor that. Whether his friend admits it or not, Jayce's opinion does matter to him, but he's not surprised at all that he likes Viktor's friends easily. Alucard is considerate of Viktor's situation and not inserting himself into it without permission, it's good. Thoughtful. ]
I'll bring it up to him and let him know to contact you if he's interested in more details.
[ Jayce might be relieved to know he's not the only one who isn't good at subtle. It's honestly astonishing he managed to keep his project secret so long since he's really bad at lying, but that was the benefit of having an apartment outside of the academy's eyes. And coming up with an idea no one had ever had before.
He is very interested in Alucard's response and it makes sense that he's the child of academics, he has that sort of curiosity and interest in him, quiet though he may be, that speaks of bright minds. ]
So it's not a surprise that the history of this place and its buildings would appeal to you. Being something of a polymath yourself.
[ For someone who has never been poor, Jayce is pretty good at hustling when he needs to. And they definitely need to. He actively worries about Viktor hurting himself more tripping over him, but neither of them has suggested or even considered not staying in the same room.
Jayce gets what he means and nods. This is a good man, he intends to tell Viktor that. Whether his friend admits it or not, Jayce's opinion does matter to him, but he's not surprised at all that he likes Viktor's friends easily. Alucard is considerate of Viktor's situation and not inserting himself into it without permission, it's good. Thoughtful. ]
I'll bring it up to him and let him know to contact you if he's interested in more details.
[ Jayce might be relieved to know he's not the only one who isn't good at subtle. It's honestly astonishing he managed to keep his project secret so long since he's really bad at lying, but that was the benefit of having an apartment outside of the academy's eyes. And coming up with an idea no one had ever had before.
He is very interested in Alucard's response and it makes sense that he's the child of academics, he has that sort of curiosity and interest in him, quiet though he may be, that speaks of bright minds. ]
So it's not a surprise that the history of this place and its buildings would appeal to you. Being something of a polymath yourself.
It's been a busy few days and it's clearly past time to get some actual rest, but in true Viktor fashion, he seems perfectly content to ignore this fact in the interest of squeezing out a few more hours of work. Still, he looks close to his limit, all trappings of formality gone, shirt rumpled with the top button undone, hair unruly in a way that indicates he's been scrubbing his hands through it, the curls at his temples plastered to his face with the day's sweat. He's got his bad leg, sans brace, stretched out under the worktable, knee locked, his good one lifted higher, heel catching the rung of the stool he sits on. Viktor leans forward into his knee in a way that can't be good for his already-questionable posture.
The screwdriver's in his hand just as he finishes his sentence, and he seems surprised for a moment before he remembers that this is just what it's like, to have Jayce around, and he offers him a tired smile. It occurs to him a second too late that there's a bloody handkerchief sitting on the table, and he reaches out for it with his free hand, trying to slide it back towards him and stuff it in his pocket as subtly as possible.
"I'm almost finished," he says, as if getting to business as quickly as he can will prevent any prying questions. "I may need you to help make a few final adjustments."
Mostly because he can't really reach behind, once he's wearing it. Whatever he's tightening on the assembly makes a clicking noise--Viktor slides a brass buckle on to one of the leather straps and then looks up, eyebrows raised. He can sort of tell this is a segue into something else, but he has to admit that he's intrigued, if not by the proposition, then by Jayce's conversation with Alucard, more generally. Discussing his medical needs with his new friends already, it seems. Viktor's not quite sure what to think about that.
"What did he suggest?"
The screwdriver's in his hand just as he finishes his sentence, and he seems surprised for a moment before he remembers that this is just what it's like, to have Jayce around, and he offers him a tired smile. It occurs to him a second too late that there's a bloody handkerchief sitting on the table, and he reaches out for it with his free hand, trying to slide it back towards him and stuff it in his pocket as subtly as possible.
"I'm almost finished," he says, as if getting to business as quickly as he can will prevent any prying questions. "I may need you to help make a few final adjustments."
Mostly because he can't really reach behind, once he's wearing it. Whatever he's tightening on the assembly makes a clicking noise--Viktor slides a brass buckle on to one of the leather straps and then looks up, eyebrows raised. He can sort of tell this is a segue into something else, but he has to admit that he's intrigued, if not by the proposition, then by Jayce's conversation with Alucard, more generally. Discussing his medical needs with his new friends already, it seems. Viktor's not quite sure what to think about that.
"What did he suggest?"
Edited 2022-04-12 04:24 (UTC)
Naturally, Ciri assumes he is another client. (Is client the right word for the deal she has with Viktor? Associate?) The large man looks rather out of place in the workshop, or so Ciri thinks.
Then, she notices he appears to be sorting through a box of supplies she'd brought earlier in the week. Someone Viktor hired on for help, then. Or a very bad thief.
"You Viktor's apprentice?" she asks bluntly, without bothering to introduce herself.
Then, she notices he appears to be sorting through a box of supplies she'd brought earlier in the week. Someone Viktor hired on for help, then. Or a very bad thief.
"You Viktor's apprentice?" she asks bluntly, without bothering to introduce herself.
It will at least be the easiest.
[Maybe not easy, but the most straight forward for sure. There's nothing much to contend with, just a clear need to deal with a problem that has no complications attached. New rooms open up every day, and those aren't mired in politics.
Jayce, stop using the f-word so freely??? Alucard can't speak for Viktor, but he's emotionally constipated and a mess, admitting he even has friends here has been a weird minefield. Someone else looking at the situation from the outside and saying it is just a lot?????]
That'll do.
[It puts the weight on Viktor to make a call both if he wants this and how comfortable with disclosure he actually is. That's fair and then some as far as Alucard is concerned.]
I have more defined preferences though. [Dracula dabbled in everything, such as it is.] Polymaths, in my experience, jump around far more.
[Maybe not easy, but the most straight forward for sure. There's nothing much to contend with, just a clear need to deal with a problem that has no complications attached. New rooms open up every day, and those aren't mired in politics.
Jayce, stop using the f-word so freely??? Alucard can't speak for Viktor, but he's emotionally constipated and a mess, admitting he even has friends here has been a weird minefield. Someone else looking at the situation from the outside and saying it is just a lot?????]
That'll do.
[It puts the weight on Viktor to make a call both if he wants this and how comfortable with disclosure he actually is. That's fair and then some as far as Alucard is concerned.]
I have more defined preferences though. [Dracula dabbled in everything, such as it is.] Polymaths, in my experience, jump around far more.
Viktor's focus on his work means that Jayce can look at him more thoroughly without having to dart his eyes away. Viktor might feel the weight of Jayce's eyes on him, but frankly, that is nothing new for them. He takes in the details that he knows well, the exhaustion and working too much something he knows well, and it used to be something he brushed off as how they were. But Viktor's illness puts everything in a different light. He is driving himself to a deeper sickness and Jayce frowns, concerned. He can't even enjoy that rare top button undone, the rare sight of his clavicle, because he is worked through.
He gives a noisy sigh when Viktor takes the handkerchief. "You don't have to hide from me, Viktor." He knows Viktor is dying now, which means every detail about him is noticed, and more than that, important. He wants to be included on the realities of this, despite the fact it also makes him feel utterly useless. It's not about being helpful. It's about being there for him. Viktor's not good at letting people do that, so it'll be a process. An adjustment. But he is going to press it and not let things slide like he used to.
"Of course, that's what I'm here for." He resists the urge to slide his fingers through Viktor's messy hair, something he pretty much always has to stop. It's become an intrusive thought, not one he follows through on. Arm touches are the only permitted ones.
"We were only talking about the cane." Jayce makes certain to note. It is possible people have suspicions about the leg, and he doesn't know if Viktor's given more details on that, and Jayce wouldn't reveal more than what is visible. That's why he is bringing it up only to Viktor that they could also work on it with these. "From what I can tell he says there are magical inscriptions that can be carved or forged into the items that could help with mobility or other things that could potentially make your life easier. He said it's something he'd have to go over with you about what makes sense, but that he felt I should be the one to mention it first."
Jayce has a sharp memory, he pays very close attention to people who talk most of the time which means everything of importance is locked on. "He's a good guy, I like him." Not only for him being considerate of Viktor's needs but generally seeming kind if withdrawn. "We could always test it out on your cane, and if you don't like it, I'll make you a new one." The two of them like testing things out.
He gives a noisy sigh when Viktor takes the handkerchief. "You don't have to hide from me, Viktor." He knows Viktor is dying now, which means every detail about him is noticed, and more than that, important. He wants to be included on the realities of this, despite the fact it also makes him feel utterly useless. It's not about being helpful. It's about being there for him. Viktor's not good at letting people do that, so it'll be a process. An adjustment. But he is going to press it and not let things slide like he used to.
"Of course, that's what I'm here for." He resists the urge to slide his fingers through Viktor's messy hair, something he pretty much always has to stop. It's become an intrusive thought, not one he follows through on. Arm touches are the only permitted ones.
"We were only talking about the cane." Jayce makes certain to note. It is possible people have suspicions about the leg, and he doesn't know if Viktor's given more details on that, and Jayce wouldn't reveal more than what is visible. That's why he is bringing it up only to Viktor that they could also work on it with these. "From what I can tell he says there are magical inscriptions that can be carved or forged into the items that could help with mobility or other things that could potentially make your life easier. He said it's something he'd have to go over with you about what makes sense, but that he felt I should be the one to mention it first."
Jayce has a sharp memory, he pays very close attention to people who talk most of the time which means everything of importance is locked on. "He's a good guy, I like him." Not only for him being considerate of Viktor's needs but generally seeming kind if withdrawn. "We could always test it out on your cane, and if you don't like it, I'll make you a new one." The two of them like testing things out.
Edited 2022-04-12 14:19 (UTC)
[he talks up a friendly game, like he knows viktor, but would it be that simple? to just provide the man's name, a few key words that could very well have been read from the research papers an intruder could be looking to steal?
sketches may mean nothing, and wanda's had black widow as her combat and spy tutor to know that these things can be easily faked. following the man around, memorizing what he looks like, his habits, anything can provide for a credible story. this could be a long con in the making, and if viktor has a right to feel somewhat... protective of his work, wouldn't that mean that it is likely there are those of his world who may have been interested in his research, now newly arrived?
the possibilities are endless.]
Anyone can make sketches.
[wanda just needs to make sure—and her hands glow in scarlet, as she sends ripples of her magic to take up the contents of research (books, papers, models) and neatly pile them all together, pushing them up towards the ceiling—including the sketch book jayce had been holding. her magic grazes his hands in the process.]
Where is Viktor?
[she'll only trust the words coming out of his mouth, not whoever "jayce" claims to be.]
sketches may mean nothing, and wanda's had black widow as her combat and spy tutor to know that these things can be easily faked. following the man around, memorizing what he looks like, his habits, anything can provide for a credible story. this could be a long con in the making, and if viktor has a right to feel somewhat... protective of his work, wouldn't that mean that it is likely there are those of his world who may have been interested in his research, now newly arrived?
the possibilities are endless.]
Anyone can make sketches.
[wanda just needs to make sure—and her hands glow in scarlet, as she sends ripples of her magic to take up the contents of research (books, papers, models) and neatly pile them all together, pushing them up towards the ceiling—including the sketch book jayce had been holding. her magic grazes his hands in the process.]
Where is Viktor?
[she'll only trust the words coming out of his mouth, not whoever "jayce" claims to be.]
Edited 2022-04-12 15:24 (UTC)
"Force of habit," he mumbles into his current activity. Jayce's presence next to him is warm without being too overbearing, but Viktor can still feel the concern all but wafting off him. It's not about hiding--there's no hiding any of this, not really, not when they're living and working together, but a part of Viktor still wants to spare Jayce the worst. It's hard, struggling between his own deep desire to ensure that nobody worries about him, ever, and knowing that he has a lot going on that people are going to worry about. He can't exactly blame Jayce for this, and he tries to swallow down the inklings of resentment in the pit of his stomach.
"It's something I've considered in the past." Of course he has. How could he not? He's the one who lives with it, and the runic system of Hextech is practically made for these kinds of various equipment improvements. Perhaps, given everything else he wanted to do with his limited time, it never seemed that important, especially when he likes to think that he gets around just fine. Still, he's reminded again of what he planned to do before arriving here--cut runes into his leg and into the metal and, well. See what happened. "My crutch does what it's supposed to do. The leg brace might be a better candidate. Worth exploring under a new magic system, perhaps, if we find the time."
Time is the operative word. Viktor has always needed to prioritize and he pulls his lips tight and wrenches a bolt into place. Jayce means well, of course, he always does, but he finds the fact that this conversation happened at all--without him--to be slightly invasive, especially when he doesn't know who prompted it or why. He wants to be glad that Jayce and Alucard seemed to get along well, but he can't help but bristle and when he speaks again, it's icily. "I'm sure it was an entirely pleasant discussion of my physical shortcomings. Did you talk about anything else?"
"It's something I've considered in the past." Of course he has. How could he not? He's the one who lives with it, and the runic system of Hextech is practically made for these kinds of various equipment improvements. Perhaps, given everything else he wanted to do with his limited time, it never seemed that important, especially when he likes to think that he gets around just fine. Still, he's reminded again of what he planned to do before arriving here--cut runes into his leg and into the metal and, well. See what happened. "My crutch does what it's supposed to do. The leg brace might be a better candidate. Worth exploring under a new magic system, perhaps, if we find the time."
Time is the operative word. Viktor has always needed to prioritize and he pulls his lips tight and wrenches a bolt into place. Jayce means well, of course, he always does, but he finds the fact that this conversation happened at all--without him--to be slightly invasive, especially when he doesn't know who prompted it or why. He wants to be glad that Jayce and Alucard seemed to get along well, but he can't help but bristle and when he speaks again, it's icily. "I'm sure it was an entirely pleasant discussion of my physical shortcomings. Did you talk about anything else?"
[ Jayce wonders what exactly Viktor told people of their work at this point to make a stranger this protective of it. His partner is very protective of their ideas, obviously, but this is a pretty high extent when they did a lot of their projects in the open. It was probably the Hexcore. That he would be intensely private about, so he assumes it's the answer. It's so strange to be in his lab and seem like the odd one out.
He gives a long-suffering sigh, seriously he's going to make it a new rule that Viktor has to describe him to everyone now that he's here, this is ridiculous. Jayce is wracking his brain for something helpful to say when she uses magic and he gasps, concern turning into open wonder. Maybe he should be scared but instead he looks more interested, staring up at them. ]
That's amazing. Did you learn to do that here or did you have it before? I've started rudimentary training but to have this amount of control. Is it hard to do so many things at once?
[ Honestly the strangest part of his reaction is probably the almost adoration in his gaze at the witness of any magic. The first time he witnessed it here he got emotional. Seriously don't mind him. It's a problem. And yes he just completely forgot what they were talking about in exchange for admiring her magic, feel free to judge him for it. ]
Oh wait. Sorry. Um. You must be Wanda. [ He's still looking at her magic instead of at her. ] Viktor told me about the magic users here because I'm well, a magic fan. Sorry.
[ Yes he said sorry twice, it's because as good as he is with people, even he is subject to being cringe sometimes, and magic is something that sets him off. But it's probably embarrassing. Except he's hungry for answers at the same time. He has a problem. It's also not that unusual to suspect he's lying considering Jayce is painfully sincere and genuine, which is not frequently seen in people. ]
It's beautiful.
[ He finally forces himself to look back at her. Like a person would. Jayce. ]
He gives a long-suffering sigh, seriously he's going to make it a new rule that Viktor has to describe him to everyone now that he's here, this is ridiculous. Jayce is wracking his brain for something helpful to say when she uses magic and he gasps, concern turning into open wonder. Maybe he should be scared but instead he looks more interested, staring up at them. ]
That's amazing. Did you learn to do that here or did you have it before? I've started rudimentary training but to have this amount of control. Is it hard to do so many things at once?
[ Honestly the strangest part of his reaction is probably the almost adoration in his gaze at the witness of any magic. The first time he witnessed it here he got emotional. Seriously don't mind him. It's a problem. And yes he just completely forgot what they were talking about in exchange for admiring her magic, feel free to judge him for it. ]
Oh wait. Sorry. Um. You must be Wanda. [ He's still looking at her magic instead of at her. ] Viktor told me about the magic users here because I'm well, a magic fan. Sorry.
[ Yes he said sorry twice, it's because as good as he is with people, even he is subject to being cringe sometimes, and magic is something that sets him off. But it's probably embarrassing. Except he's hungry for answers at the same time. He has a problem. It's also not that unusual to suspect he's lying considering Jayce is painfully sincere and genuine, which is not frequently seen in people. ]
It's beautiful.
[ He finally forces himself to look back at her. Like a person would. Jayce. ]
"I just ... wish you would let me in." That is nothing new but now it has more weight to it because of Viktor's condition. Jayce has managed to accept he will never get the same amount of back and forth from Viktor as he offers, that's fine they are different people, but some parts still seem locked. It's difficult. He tampers down his own frustration as best as he can because Viktor already has a lot on his shoulders.
The Hexcore had ruins in it so the idea of using magic to work on other devices is something they've always conceived of, and only recently started to see in real time. "Whatever you want to do. It shouldn't take much time with three people on it. And seeing whether it works might be useful for us to know when working on other things." Good for them, good for him. Of course Jayce's priorities are much more singular.
He bristles as well, he hates that icy tone so much and always has, it has a tendency to set him off and make his teeth get on edge. Because it's Viktor talking to him like other people and he hates that. "We were talking about my freelancing with the blacksmith, I told him that I made a lot of our projects by hand, and referenced the cane." Jayce is annoyed and pushes off the table since Viktor is still working and goes over to his side, folding up his sketchbook since he takes that with them to the inn. There are some schematics they've thought up in there he doesn't like in a public place.
"Am I going to get my head bitten off if I say we should go back to the inn after this to rest?"
The Hexcore had ruins in it so the idea of using magic to work on other devices is something they've always conceived of, and only recently started to see in real time. "Whatever you want to do. It shouldn't take much time with three people on it. And seeing whether it works might be useful for us to know when working on other things." Good for them, good for him. Of course Jayce's priorities are much more singular.
He bristles as well, he hates that icy tone so much and always has, it has a tendency to set him off and make his teeth get on edge. Because it's Viktor talking to him like other people and he hates that. "We were talking about my freelancing with the blacksmith, I told him that I made a lot of our projects by hand, and referenced the cane." Jayce is annoyed and pushes off the table since Viktor is still working and goes over to his side, folding up his sketchbook since he takes that with them to the inn. There are some schematics they've thought up in there he doesn't like in a public place.
"Am I going to get my head bitten off if I say we should go back to the inn after this to rest?"
[the response is not one she expects. granted, she's not sure what she expected, but it was definitely not this general awe at her magic. it sounds oddly familiar, deja vu in the back of her head, perhaps of the first time she met viktor and he couldn't help but also be in awe of it.
she's not even going to answer the questions, because this is how suddenly awkward wanda is starting to feel about the situation.
especially when "jayce" says her name, and then it's a little harder to hold on to the theory that this man must just be very well aware of viktor's schedule and whereabouts for nefarious reasons.
a string of magic tangentially pushes through the man, an action consolidated by the movement of her fingers, and she gets an inkling now of... emotion, excitement, towards the current display of scarlet. wanda pushes past that and pokes around his head a bit more and finds that thread that connects viktor to the man: a friendship from years ago, a lab just like this one, a meaningful connection.
hm.
wanda pulls away her magic, neatly putting the research items back in their place, but the sketch book falls in wanda's hands. she opens it and looks at the sketches jayce had tried showing hier. it's only after a moment that she returns the book, taking the remaining steps closer towards jayce.]
— I'm sorry.
[it's her turn to apologize, handing the book over.]
she's not even going to answer the questions, because this is how suddenly awkward wanda is starting to feel about the situation.
especially when "jayce" says her name, and then it's a little harder to hold on to the theory that this man must just be very well aware of viktor's schedule and whereabouts for nefarious reasons.
a string of magic tangentially pushes through the man, an action consolidated by the movement of her fingers, and she gets an inkling now of... emotion, excitement, towards the current display of scarlet. wanda pushes past that and pokes around his head a bit more and finds that thread that connects viktor to the man: a friendship from years ago, a lab just like this one, a meaningful connection.
hm.
wanda pulls away her magic, neatly putting the research items back in their place, but the sketch book falls in wanda's hands. she opens it and looks at the sketches jayce had tried showing hier. it's only after a moment that she returns the book, taking the remaining steps closer towards jayce.]
— I'm sorry.
[it's her turn to apologize, handing the book over.]
Edited 2022-04-12 19:33 (UTC)
Viktor stays focused on the work, wanting to simply get it done at this point, but when Jayce says that, he can't hide the way his eyebrows pinch together painfully. He knows they're overtired and frustrating each other, that there's still so much between them that's unsaid, but he still can't bring himself to apologize for it. For a moment he looks like he's going to open his mouth, maybe to offer some excuse or even just a reminder that he has a lot on his mind--that he doesn't want to or mean to put up these walls. But with his own body falling apart around him, his boundaries are the only thing he can control, so he pushes, almost involuntarily.
What he doesn't say is that he's equally terrified of what might happen if he one day pushes too far. He fights it all down. Relaxes his expression. Offers a nod.
"I'll keep it in mind." Which is true--he just needs some time to think about it. He still, vaguely, in the back of his mind, plans to move forward with the experiment he intended to perform with the Hexcore in the first place, not that he's going to say as much right now.
The good news, at least, is that he's putting the finishing touches on the assembly, and for once he can agree that after this, they both need to rest. Jayce is clearly reaching his limit, too, so Viktor makes a concerted effort to swallow his own aggravation in favor of sounding a little more neutral. It comes out in a sigh.
"No, I think we could both use some sleep. I just want to finish this, first. You don't have to stay."
What he doesn't say is that he's equally terrified of what might happen if he one day pushes too far. He fights it all down. Relaxes his expression. Offers a nod.
"I'll keep it in mind." Which is true--he just needs some time to think about it. He still, vaguely, in the back of his mind, plans to move forward with the experiment he intended to perform with the Hexcore in the first place, not that he's going to say as much right now.
The good news, at least, is that he's putting the finishing touches on the assembly, and for once he can agree that after this, they both need to rest. Jayce is clearly reaching his limit, too, so Viktor makes a concerted effort to swallow his own aggravation in favor of sounding a little more neutral. It comes out in a sigh.
"No, I think we could both use some sleep. I just want to finish this, first. You don't have to stay."
Edited 2022-04-12 21:04 (UTC)
Viktor shutting down entirely is also not new and while it's frustrating, Jayce simply accepts it as it is and tries to push his own negativity away. It's fine. It's just late. He can't make big decisions about magic on his braces at this time of night. He takes a deep breath in and lets it out. He glances over his shoulder at him and then rolls his eyes, huffing, half amused.
"You know I'm not going anywhere. You could use a second pair of hands to finish it." As if Jayce would leave Viktor there to keep working late, or to go home alone, he isn't that annoyed. He puts the sketchbook down for now, easy to pick up on the way out, and returns to Viktor, folding his arms as he resumes his casual lean on the table next to him.
"I want them to like me. Your new friends." So he might be oversharing or overeager, although most of the time that also is who he is. Jayce always wants people to like him, it's one of his biggest character flaws, but considering it's people close to Viktor, it matters even more.
"You know I'm not going anywhere. You could use a second pair of hands to finish it." As if Jayce would leave Viktor there to keep working late, or to go home alone, he isn't that annoyed. He puts the sketchbook down for now, easy to pick up on the way out, and returns to Viktor, folding his arms as he resumes his casual lean on the table next to him.
"I want them to like me. Your new friends." So he might be oversharing or overeager, although most of the time that also is who he is. Jayce always wants people to like him, it's one of his biggest character flaws, but considering it's people close to Viktor, it matters even more.
Jayce making his way back to Viktor's worktable is heartening, and his shoulders relax when he realizes that he hasn't yet pushed too hard. Perhaps, one day, when things get bad, he might--but they're not there yet. He watches him for a moment, and then lets out another sigh.
"It's impossible not to like you, Jayce." There's a touch of warmth in his voice now, a sincerity that bubbles to the surface in spite of everything. Jayce is overly-concerned with what other people think of him in a way that Viktor absolutely is not, so the sentiment isn't exactly surprising, and he manages an exasperated laugh, shaking his head a little that Jayce could even be worrying about such a thing. And it feels a little strange, to hear new friends--but he supposes that's what they are. Back home, nobody ever comes to the lab looking for him, so this must be an adjustment. It must feel backwards, and it occurs to him that perhaps the concern betrays a deeper anxiety, one that comes from Viktor having established himself here, in the absence of anything and everything he knows, including Jayce. "I would not be able to replace you even if I wanted to."
And that might be all he's going to say about that. Viktor finally removes his left knee from its bent position and puts both feet on the ground, leaning back on the stool to admire his handiwork. It's remarkably similar to what he used back home, and he appears satisfied with the end product. With little fanfare, he bends to pull his shirt over his head (not a difficult feat, given the loose-fitting cut and the fact that he's always been somewhat insubstantial, physically speaking) and holds up the brace, straightening his back and gesturing for Jayce to move closer. This is going to be intimate in a way he's not sure he's ready for, so he decides that the best course of action is to be as clinical about it as possible.
"We should only need to do this once. I can do everything in the front, but this piece--" he pauses, making sure Jayce is watching as he points out the longer shingles of metal on the brace, meant to follow the line of his spine, "--anchors to the implant--" another gesture, reaching his arm behind him to indicate the series of bolts between his shoulder blades, "--here. Third one down. Then, it's just a matter of tightening the mechanisms that I can't reach, until it's fitted properly. I'll walk you through it."
"It's impossible not to like you, Jayce." There's a touch of warmth in his voice now, a sincerity that bubbles to the surface in spite of everything. Jayce is overly-concerned with what other people think of him in a way that Viktor absolutely is not, so the sentiment isn't exactly surprising, and he manages an exasperated laugh, shaking his head a little that Jayce could even be worrying about such a thing. And it feels a little strange, to hear new friends--but he supposes that's what they are. Back home, nobody ever comes to the lab looking for him, so this must be an adjustment. It must feel backwards, and it occurs to him that perhaps the concern betrays a deeper anxiety, one that comes from Viktor having established himself here, in the absence of anything and everything he knows, including Jayce. "I would not be able to replace you even if I wanted to."
And that might be all he's going to say about that. Viktor finally removes his left knee from its bent position and puts both feet on the ground, leaning back on the stool to admire his handiwork. It's remarkably similar to what he used back home, and he appears satisfied with the end product. With little fanfare, he bends to pull his shirt over his head (not a difficult feat, given the loose-fitting cut and the fact that he's always been somewhat insubstantial, physically speaking) and holds up the brace, straightening his back and gesturing for Jayce to move closer. This is going to be intimate in a way he's not sure he's ready for, so he decides that the best course of action is to be as clinical about it as possible.
"We should only need to do this once. I can do everything in the front, but this piece--" he pauses, making sure Jayce is watching as he points out the longer shingles of metal on the brace, meant to follow the line of his spine, "--anchors to the implant--" another gesture, reaching his arm behind him to indicate the series of bolts between his shoulder blades, "--here. Third one down. Then, it's just a matter of tightening the mechanisms that I can't reach, until it's fitted properly. I'll walk you through it."
Jayce has the admiration of the people, the respect of the council, his face is on blimps, he's reached all the validation and attention he craved for his inventions, and yet he still can't cure the insecurity in him that wants all of it. They're in a new place and he's starting all over again in wanting to win everyone over, needing that reassurance that he is likable, that he's not the strange kid with the rock collection who won't shut up about magic.
Yet all of it doesn't matter as much as Viktor's opinion, and that's a fact. Viktor's attention and friendship have been more validating than the entire whole of Piltover. He shrugs when Viktor says it's impossible not to like him, he'll have to prove him right, but he looks genuinely surprised at the follow-up. Hazel eyes widen and he stares at Viktor, feeling the warmth and the meaning behind those words as it washes over him, and some anxiety he wasn't even fully aware of releases. It was there clenched in his stomach every time he heard about new friends or met them, this concern that Viktor didn't actually need him. He gives a startled laugh, relaxing all at once. "Same, partner. There's no one else."
Not for him. Just like that he is floating on good energy and he warns himself to be good as he comes closer to Viktor. He wants, as usual, to touch him, hug him, run his fingers over his sharp angles, and as usual he manages to tamper that down. It's going to be more difficult than usual because he is being invited directly into the private space he has to force himself to stay out of. But this is clinical. This is for Viktor's back. Not for his daydreams. (Well maybe for his daydreams.)
Jayce is watching and he nods, he's a genius, this doesn't even fully take a genius to do, although it's better if the person is. "It's okay. I'm good at putting things together." He knows this is going to be uncomfortable for Viktor so he will try to make it quick and thorough and not linger. Jayce steps behind him, resisting the instinct to trail his fingers down his spine, shaking that off. It's easier from this angle so he doesn't have to worry about his expression being caught out.
"Alright, walk me through it." He genuinely doesn't know if he's too close, it's hard to tell with this situation, but he definitely feels close, taller than Viktor so he's looking at his hair. Be good, be good, be good.
Yet all of it doesn't matter as much as Viktor's opinion, and that's a fact. Viktor's attention and friendship have been more validating than the entire whole of Piltover. He shrugs when Viktor says it's impossible not to like him, he'll have to prove him right, but he looks genuinely surprised at the follow-up. Hazel eyes widen and he stares at Viktor, feeling the warmth and the meaning behind those words as it washes over him, and some anxiety he wasn't even fully aware of releases. It was there clenched in his stomach every time he heard about new friends or met them, this concern that Viktor didn't actually need him. He gives a startled laugh, relaxing all at once. "Same, partner. There's no one else."
Not for him. Just like that he is floating on good energy and he warns himself to be good as he comes closer to Viktor. He wants, as usual, to touch him, hug him, run his fingers over his sharp angles, and as usual he manages to tamper that down. It's going to be more difficult than usual because he is being invited directly into the private space he has to force himself to stay out of. But this is clinical. This is for Viktor's back. Not for his daydreams. (Well maybe for his daydreams.)
Jayce is watching and he nods, he's a genius, this doesn't even fully take a genius to do, although it's better if the person is. "It's okay. I'm good at putting things together." He knows this is going to be uncomfortable for Viktor so he will try to make it quick and thorough and not linger. Jayce steps behind him, resisting the instinct to trail his fingers down his spine, shaking that off. It's easier from this angle so he doesn't have to worry about his expression being caught out.
"Alright, walk me through it." He genuinely doesn't know if he's too close, it's hard to tell with this situation, but he definitely feels close, taller than Viktor so he's looking at his hair. Be good, be good, be good.
It has not stopped surprising him how many people know Viktor and seem to visit, whether for personal reasons or work, but it's a good thing. Jayce glances up when she comes in and smiles, setting aside the box for now. He is currently putting together a tool belt, that seems helpful considering what he's starting, and finding items to put on it.
"I'm his partner from home. I just got here. Jayce Talis." He could be seen as the opposite of Viktor, both in physical size and appearance, and that he has a very open and warm energy to him. He stopped going straight for handshakes since that doesn't seem popular here, so he waves instead.
"I'm not entirely sure where he is, can I help you with anything?"
"I'm his partner from home. I just got here. Jayce Talis." He could be seen as the opposite of Viktor, both in physical size and appearance, and that he has a very open and warm energy to him. He stopped going straight for handshakes since that doesn't seem popular here, so he waves instead.
"I'm not entirely sure where he is, can I help you with anything?"
Well, that's quite a reaction--he watches the tension leave Jayce's shoulders in real time, and it's surprisingly satisfying, to be reminded that he still knows exactly what to say, even when Jayce's anxieties are only implied, rather than communicated outright. He imagines that if their roles were switched, he might feel similarly. It's daunting, to arrive in a strange new place only to discover that Viktor has made his own way in the meantime. He's sure Jayce is still wondering where he might be able to fit into this new life, such as it is.
Luckily, he doesn't have to address it further than that, because there's business to attend to. Viktor doesn't want to sit here with his shirt off for longer than he needs, but the good news is that both of them are efficient. Still, Jayce is warm in his proximity, and he feels him hovering, waiting for further instruction. He lets out a soft breath, adjusting to the closeness before he re-focuses on the task at hand and pulls the leather brace around his torso. It mostly secures in the front and on the sides for ease of removal, and Viktor makes quick work of the shoulder piece, then the various buckles, looping the leather straps through them and pulling them tight. Then, he reaches behind himself again to make sure that the top clamp is lined up with the aforementioned implant. Jayce can likely do the rest.
"You'll need the screwdriver--the small one--and wrench. Do you see the fasteners on either side of each panel? Those are the ones to tighten. I'll let you know when to stop."
Luckily, he doesn't have to address it further than that, because there's business to attend to. Viktor doesn't want to sit here with his shirt off for longer than he needs, but the good news is that both of them are efficient. Still, Jayce is warm in his proximity, and he feels him hovering, waiting for further instruction. He lets out a soft breath, adjusting to the closeness before he re-focuses on the task at hand and pulls the leather brace around his torso. It mostly secures in the front and on the sides for ease of removal, and Viktor makes quick work of the shoulder piece, then the various buckles, looping the leather straps through them and pulling them tight. Then, he reaches behind himself again to make sure that the top clamp is lined up with the aforementioned implant. Jayce can likely do the rest.
"You'll need the screwdriver--the small one--and wrench. Do you see the fasteners on either side of each panel? Those are the ones to tighten. I'll let you know when to stop."
[ Jayce knows someone else might have been intimidated by such a show of power, probably he should have been, but he doesn't have what one would call a smart sense of danger for himself. He's only recently gotten into his first fight and he outclassed the others so much that he was not really in danger. But it was a horrible thing, so he tries not to think about it. He doesn't know what exactly changes her mind, maybe it's saying her name, because then she's bringing everything down and offering him his book. ]
Don't worry about it.
[ The way he says it makes it clear he genuinely means that. He is not upset. He takes the book from her with a smile.]
I think it's nice you were trying to protect his work. Technically, our work, so thanks.
[ Where they come from, only Jayce really appreciates Viktor, and he's been frustrated for years that the prejudice of the higher class led people to dismiss the most brilliant person in their midst. The fact that outside of that snobby society Viktor has thrived in meeting new people who see his value is gratifying. ]
I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable with the magic questions. When I was a child, a mage saved me and my mother from death, and I spent the rest of my life searching for it. And then I found a way to combine it with technology, the Hextech Viktor and I created. So I've just ... always longed to learn more.
[ Jayce's other hand goes to caress the bracelet he always wears at home, and he can have here in the Horizon. It used to burn with magic, and the mage gave it to him after he saved them. It's his most sentimental possession.
He knows he can be intense and she didn't ask for that. She didn't offer him the chance to talk about magic, he just pushed his way into it, so he is contrite about that. He hopes explaining where his obsession comes from can help note he doesn't mean to be that way, it really is true admiration it comes from. ]
Don't worry about it.
[ The way he says it makes it clear he genuinely means that. He is not upset. He takes the book from her with a smile.]
I think it's nice you were trying to protect his work. Technically, our work, so thanks.
[ Where they come from, only Jayce really appreciates Viktor, and he's been frustrated for years that the prejudice of the higher class led people to dismiss the most brilliant person in their midst. The fact that outside of that snobby society Viktor has thrived in meeting new people who see his value is gratifying. ]
I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable with the magic questions. When I was a child, a mage saved me and my mother from death, and I spent the rest of my life searching for it. And then I found a way to combine it with technology, the Hextech Viktor and I created. So I've just ... always longed to learn more.
[ Jayce's other hand goes to caress the bracelet he always wears at home, and he can have here in the Horizon. It used to burn with magic, and the mage gave it to him after he saved them. It's his most sentimental possession.
He knows he can be intense and she didn't ask for that. She didn't offer him the chance to talk about magic, he just pushed his way into it, so he is contrite about that. He hopes explaining where his obsession comes from can help note he doesn't mean to be that way, it really is true admiration it comes from. ]
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