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Chapter Text

On the outskirts of the metropolis city of Piltover, beneath the Progress Overpass, was the tent city of Zaun. Without a doubt, it was one of the largest homeless encampments in the region, stretching for miles into the woods. So large, in fact, that it came with its own communities and traditions. 

Four years prior, several people were arrested from the Zaun encampment for beating a man to death. A loving husband and father. A volunteer soup kitchen worker and a local kindergarten teacher. But most of all, he'd been... 

The end of Viktor's cane dug into the dirt as he swallowed. He stared at the water quietly. His clothes itched and he figured it had been long enough that he could change without feeling guilty. This was the spot he'd felt those unwelcome hands. Those unwelcome touches. His knuckles were white around the top of his cane. He had just returned a bowl of broken glass to Singed's tent. His hands were dirty and his hair was greasy. Singed had asked if he could clean the new glass shards so he could make more sculpture pieces to pawn off to pitying citizens in Piltover and Viktor had done so in the river before going to seek out his safe place. Viktor furrowed his brow. He took a deep breath before wincing as he lowered himself down. His knee felt like it had popped and he swore. 

He was sitting on the grassy bank now and he placed his cane aside. He could risk cleaning himself up a little since he still had two hours before he switched over. Once he did, then he could take a proper shower. Existing in two worlds at once was nothing short of exhausting at times and he squeezed his eyes shut. He and Singed lived on the farthest part of the encampment from the city. It was far enough that volunteers from the nearby soup kitchen had to bring the food out to them, since no one in Viktor's small portion of the tent city was physically able to travel the distance to get it themselves. He'd been so freaked out by the newer volunteers that he'd abstained from leaving his tent while they were nearby. He hadn't bathed the whole week he'd been here and he felt disgusting. 

The newer volunteers were mostly university students, looking to add 'community service' to their resumes. However, there was a new volunteer that had caught most of the residents' attention with his kind smile and handsome face. A man in his early thirties, with a clean, dark beard and hair always pulled back into a neat, half-up, half-down look. Viktor had many of the older residents take careful, playful jabs at him about liking the firefighter. Of course he did. Everyone liked the firefighter. Viktor scoffed to himself as he stared at the water. The man's name was Jayce Talis. Viktor hadn't asked anyone that. He'd known the moment he saw him. 

In his other world, Jayce Talis was one of the students at the Piltover Academy of Science. Viktor, being the Dean's assistant, was privy to Professor Heimerdinger's quiet worrying about Jayce's dwindling grades and his sponsorship by the Kiramman Family. The man was around Viktor's age there. He had seemed distracted as of late and it had the Yordle anxious. Viktor gave a quiet sigh, starting to pull off the ratty hoodie he wore. He'd been born in the other world, in the actual city of Zaun. Not a tent city. His constant and consistent disappearing act had instantly gotten him recognized as an Intersect. A person between worlds. They were few and far between, but prized all the same. At least, over there he was. Over here, Viktor was just some crippled, homeless young man who everyone only saw every other week. 

The one who had taken him in here was a man named Singed. He'd been an Intersect as well, but once the age of 25 had hit, his body had started to deteriorate, leaving him with scarring. He had finally decided to Frost to keep himself from decaying and he had chosen this world. Away from his former partner and friend, Professor Heimerdinger. Viktor still wasn't quite sure of the details regarding their falling-out with one another, but he knew they had previously not been on speaking terms long before he'd come along. In fact, they hadn't been on speaking terms until four years ago. Viktor's hands trembled as they curled into the filthy hoodie settled in his lap. Four years ago, Viktor had arrived in Heimerdinger's lab in a sobbing, bleeding, half-naked mess. He'd only had his wounds partially tended to and he'd carried a note from Singed to Heimerdinger, begging the Yordle to help Viktor and have him properly tended to. 

When it had been Viktor's time to return here again, Heimerdinger had sent back his own letter, filled with assurances that Viktor would be physically fine. To give special care to his psyche and his emotions. It seemed two notes were all that was needed to get the old friends talking again. Almost every time Viktor switched between worlds, he would bring a letter from one to the other. As of late, they seemed like they had been happier with them. Viktor sighed quietly. He reached down and finally stripped himself bare. He pushed his good leg forward first, his toes slipping into the water. He lowered himself down into it with a shuddery noise, submerging himself halfway before his foot touched the soft sand at the bottom. He moved forward, hugging himself. 

It had taken him nearly two years to return to this place. And, after another year or so without any transgressions, this small pond had become his safe space once again. It felt nice to finally reclaim it as his own. Nearly everyone in the encampment knew it was his. The rest of them preferred to bathe in the river, but Viktor loved his small pond. Well, he did suppose he liked his shower in the other world much more.

His mind wandered. 

The volunteers would've been arriving back in his section again. Luckily, he had slipped away to this place before they'd arrived. Jayce had caught him peering out from his tent more than a few times and Viktor would see him gesture towards his tent whenever he spoke to another resident. However, he would usually only get stern replies or the shaking of heads. It was the last time they were here that Jayce had started speaking to Singed and Singed had been the one to tell him what had happened. He'd told Viktor that Jayce had seemed more than a little distressed. Viktor didn't need some upstanding citizen's pity. He got enough of those condescending coos from the Piltover elites. On the rare occasions Professor Heimerdinger would attend an event, he would, of course, bring his Intersect assistant. Everyone always seemed so interested, but that one sentiment would always appear to bitter the air without fail.

Wasn't it such a shame that he was a Zaunite with that kind of ability? Oh, how he would've been so loved and popular throughout his childhood if only he'd been born a Piltovian.

Viktor sighed through his nose, his eyes shut as his shoulders sank. There was a rustle that was far too heavy to be the wind and a cold chill went through his body, making him freeze up instantly. No. No, no, no. He couldn't have his safe place intruded on again. He couldn't. He had no weapons or even the slightest knowledge of how to use one, but he would bite and scratch and kick like his life depended on it... again. "Excuse me." He spoke firmly and venomously as he turned to look back at the bank. He paused. 

Jayce was facing away from him and he'd held up his hands in surrender. There was a number of new items on the ground. A folded pile of clean clothes. A few bottles. Half a loaf of bread covered in Saran Wrap. Even a towel. Viktor stared at everything quietly before fixing his eyes on Jayce's broad back. "...What are you doing out here?" He could tell Jayce was surprised by his accent by the lingering pause before he spoke. 

"Your father told me I would find you out here and I had some things for you. I was hoping to catch you before you... were already in there. I'm sorry." Jayce said quietly. Viktor knew why that misunderstanding happened with Singed, but he'd never exactly corrected anyone about it. 

"You can put your hands down. I am... quite obviously not armed." Viktor said softly. Jayce lowered his hands, but the moved his front of him so he could fiddle with them. 

"I wanted to show you that I wasn't armed. I... didn't want you to think I was trying anything." He sounded dismayed and Viktor watched him quietly. He was trying to remember if the Jayce of the other world was this broad. He didn't think so. "I'll leave you alone. I didn't mean to invade your privacy like this." Viktor furrowed his brow. 

"Are volunteer soup kitchen staff supposed to bring extra things such as this?" Viktor asked, raising a brow as he hesitantly took a few steps forward through the water. Jayce instantly froze up. "Or are you pitying me?" 

"No! No, I just... That's a horrible thing that happened to you. I thought maybe these things would help you. One of those is pepper spray, in case anything happens again." He gestured behind him at the bottles. Viktor hesitated. That was classified as a weapon under the guidelines by the police department. Jayce could lose his actual job for providing a vagrant with a weapon. 

"You could lose your job over that. I cannot possibly take that." Viktor said, sounding stunned. 

"Oh, would you..." Jayce paused. "Would you tell anyone I gave it to you?" The borderline cheeky question took Viktor by surprise and he couldn't help the small laugh that escaped him.

"...I suppose not." Viktor finally closed the distance to the bank and leaned against it, keeping his lower half hidden and submerged. "I am Viktor, but I suppose you already knew that."

"Are you sure you want to have a conversation like this? It's inappropriate, isn't it?" Jayce asked, clearly fidgeting again. Viktor rested his head against his hand.

"Would you tell anyone we did?" He questioned in a truly cheeky manner. "I don't believe I would." Jayce paused. He finally furrowed his brow and turned to look back at Viktor. He seemed to relax upon seeing Viktor keeping himself modestly covered. Viktor's mouth quirked in weak amusement. "What did you think you would be turning around to?" 

"Nothing." Jayce answered a little too quickly. He visibly grimaced as he lowered himself to the ground, clearly favoring his leg. He finally sighed. "My name is Jayce. Jayce Talis. Maybe you already knew that too." 

"Everyone else in the encampment has not stopped speaking of you since you begin your volunteer work here. They said that you are a firefighter." Viktor said, tipping his head. 

"Ah, I am... technically, but I'm mostly the driver and supplier. I can't do groundwork stuff anymore. I had an accident a year or so ago. Flaming beam collapsed on my leg." He gestured to it quietly. Viktor's shoulders sank a little without him even realizing it. Jayce seemed to notice and he chuckled. "I'm just happy I didn't have to get it cut off." They spoke for a little while, exchanging small, careful questions between one another. Jayce was 32. Viktor was 24. Jayce liked dogs. Viktor liked cats. Jayce liked gold. Viktor preferred purple. Jayce liked sweetened iced tea. Viktor liked that too. He paused after a moment, unsure of how much time he had left. 

His eyes moved down to the bottles and he reached out to them. Upon picking one up, Viktor wasn't surprised to see that he was shaking so badly that he could barely read the bottle. Jayce seemed to notice as Viktor raised his other hand, gripping his wrist tightly to stop the shaking. "M-My apologies. I have not had anyone this close within this space since the... the incident." Viktor admitted quietly, unable to meet Jayce's eyes.

"I can leave." Jayce insisted. "I don't want you freaked out because of me." Viktor nodded. He held the shampoo bottle against his chest. 

"Thank you for the conversation, Jayce. It was nice to speak with someone new for a little." Viktor said politely. Jayce seemed surprised by that before nodding. Viktor couldn't help his mannerisms. He knew he had the habits of a person who was much more well-of than this. He blamed that on his other world. 

"Yeah, of course. No problem. I hope we'll get to speak more in the future." He winced as he got to his feet again. Viktor now noticed the ever so slight limp Jayce sported as he turned and moved away. "See you later, Viktor."

"Goodbye for now, Jayce." Viktor replied. He waited until Jayce was completely gone before eagerly opening the bottle. Once he'd cleaned himself, he wrapped himself up in the towel and sat on the edge of the pond, scarfing down the sweet bread. He squeezed his eyes shut. It never tasted as good in the other world. He sighed. He wouldn't have time to return to Singed. He got dressed in the clothes Jayce had provided. A nice, warm sweater and some black pants that weren't weathered grey with dirt and dust. Viktor tugged at the sleeves once he had it all on. He'd organized everything so Singed would know to take it back once he came looking for him. 

Fzzzzzt

That soft fizzling started in his head and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, hugging himself. It always felt like his eyes were aching when this happened and he certainly wasn't a fan of it. 

FZZZT

"Ah, there you are, lad. Right on time!" Professor Heimerdinger's cheerful voice greeted him and Viktor opened his eyes. Back in the Academy. Heimerdinger's lab.

"Hello, Professor. I did not make it back to Singed in time to collect any kind of letter. Please forgive me." Viktor apologized. The Yordle's ears flicked in surprise and he laughed, handing Viktor his polished cane to steady himself. 

"It's quite alright! All we do is ramble on in them! Rest assured, I'll send you back with one in a week. Your uniform is on the table!" He gestured over to it and Viktor nodded. "You just missed quite the commotion! One of the apartments in the student dorms blew!" Viktor instantly froze, looking over at Heimerdinger in shock.

"G-Good gods, was anyone hurt??" He asked, his eyes wide. Heimerdinger shook his head, his ears still twitching. 

"No, but I'm afraid I will have to send you to collect the offending party. You remember that student I've been worrying for? Bright, but seemed distracted." Heimerdinger added. Viktor stared at him in surprise after he made his way to the table. What a coincidence that he would see both of them so soon between. 

"Jayce Talis." 

"Correct! It appears he's been doing his own at-home experiments. And, by the gears, one of them combusted so badly that it blew debris two blocks down!" Heimerdinger exclaimed. Viktor was absolutely shocked. What could a student have been doing in his free time that could cause that kind of damage?? "I have Council matters to attend to, but I would like to send you in my stead. I'm afraid what he's working on may have landed him that spotlight in the Council Hall." 

"You truly believe it to be so dangerous that he is to be put on trial?" Viktor asked in surprise. Heimerdinger sighed, his ears lowering. 

"I wish I could say otherwise, but an explosion like that is serious business. I already spoke to Sheriff Grayson. She knows you just got back, so please go meet her at the entrance as soon as you can. She will accompany you." Heimerdinger paused before moving over. "And, Viktor, my boy, how are you? Before I get too ahead of myself with my work. How has the past week been? No trouble?" Viktor's eyes softened and he shook his head.

"We have students as volunteers roaming about, looking to have community service under their belts. I am afraid I have stayed within my tent while they are there. Many of them may not know I exist because I have hidden so much." Viktor admitted, glancing to the side. Heimerdinger frowned and Viktor gave a small shrug. "It has been difficult for me to open back up to my neighbors, let alone strangers. Not to mention that the last time I tried to make a friend with a v-volunteer, it... i-it didn't... r-really..." 

"Hush, lad. It's okay, I understand." Heimerdinger told him, his ears completely sunken. Viktor took a few deep breaths before nodding. "Take it from someone who has seen over 300 years of life, I have seen and met people who never recovered from this type of trauma. You have been recovering beautifully." Heimerdinger promised, looking him over. Viktor wasn't sure he agreed, but he did feel slightly better about it. He wanted to tell him that he'd actually spoken to someone within his safe place, but he wasn't sure if he could tell him without slipping up that it had been the other Jayce Talis. Heimerdinger was always leery about Viktor interacting with alternate versions of the same people. He insisted that it would upset some natural balance. However, he'd also admitted that it was only a theory. He hadn't seen another Intersect since Singed, after all. 

Viktor could tell something else was worrying the Yordle. "Professor." He prompted softly. Heimerdinger jumped and looked up at him. 

"Your, uh, your 25th year approaches, Viktor!" Heimerdinger seemed to be reminding himself more than he was Viktor. "You've decided you're going to Frost here?" Viktor started to nod before that image of the other Jayce peeked through his mind. His smile. His laugh. Every time Heimerdinger had asked before, Viktor would nod without hesitation, but the Yordle seemed to take note of it this time. "...Something has caused you doubt?" 

"No. No, of course not, Professor." Viktor insisted. "I will Frost here. This is my path that no steps had trodden black." His voice softened. "This is the world that will make all the difference. Even Singed knows. I promise you I have been spending much time with him. Even if he is not quite expressive, I... I can tell he is already becoming lonely again." Viktor did feel guilty about that. 

"He chose his path and he knows it. I think he'll just miss you." Heimerdinger said, patting Viktor's leg comfortingly. Viktor nodded, giving a small sigh. 

"You should hurry, Professor. I will handle the situation. I assume Mr. Talis is to be taken to custody?" Viktor questioned, Heimerdinger nodding. 

"Just for a little bit. I will come see him myself when I am finished with the Council." Heimerdinger said assuringly. "Thank you, Viktor, you are always of great help!" Viktor laughed quietly. 

"Considering I have just arrived from being homeless in another world and am already tending to your business, I would hope so." He replied with a smile. 

Chapter Text

Viktor slowly made his way down the front steps of the Academy once he'd gotten himself properly dressed. He would undoubtedly try to keep the sweater with him whenever he switched, though he wasn't sure about the pants, with how dirty he usually got in his other world. Sheriff Grayson stood at attention at the bottom, lower-ranking officers flanking her. "Viktor, welcome back." She stated formerly. Viktor glanced over at her before chuckling. 

"It is not forbidden to gaze upon me, Sheriff. Surely you do not fear the, eh, the 'all-powerful' Intersect." He teased, the older woman finally allowing herself a small laugh. The Enforcers on either side of her didn't seem as certain. Knowledge of Viktor's Intersect abilities had been restricted to Enforcers and Piltover Elites, including the Council. If anyone from Zaun recognized him as an Intersect, they certainly hadn't said anything. Grayson reached out and guided Viktor to walk alongside her. He appreciated that she matched his pace, despite the obvious displeasure of the other Enforcers behind them.

"...No trouble this past week, Viktor?" Grayson asked, keeping her eyes forward. Viktor glanced up at her before giving a weak smile.

"No, Sheriff. All was well except my hygiene, but that is quite par for the course with my alternate living situation." Viktor replied, his own eyes focusing forward. He could already see the smoke coming from the top floor of one of the buildings ahead of them. He knew why Grayson was asking, having been one of the few to see him in his disheveled state when he'd returned from the other world on that day. "There are new volunteers roaming about, but even with my aversion to them, they do not seem quite interested in conversation as it is." Except for one of them. That man spoke to everyone. Viktor glanced up at the building as they approached, wondering how similar they would be.

As expected, the flights of stairs were not ideal for him, but emerging into the hallway, he found the door to one of the rooms blown almost off its hinges, creaking. "We are here on confiscation. Anything that looks suspect, get it." Grayson ordered her men. They spread out once they moved inside and Viktor paused. There he was. The young man was sitting on a salvaged table, holding his hand to his head. His hair was short and looked like it had been neatly styled before. He was completely clean-shaven, Viktor just a tiny bit unimpressed by it. Otherwise, yes, that was certainly Jayce Talis.

"H-Hey! Be careful with all of that!" Jayce exclaimed as Viktor heard the Enforcers start gathering things into boxes. Viktor was soon distracted by the equations scribbled out on a chalkboard across the room. Lots and lots of equations. Diagrams. Symbols. He approached it curiously, tipping his head. His eyes scanned them over before he turned his head. There was a tarp covering what appeared to be a smaller board. He made his way over, but stopped. A glow distracted him and his gaze settled on a blue orb that rested in an open casing on the desk. Viktor knew better than to touch something, but it felt like it was pulling him in. 

He reached out, but the static he could already feel around his fingers deterred him and he changed his hand's direction. He grasped the tarp and pulled it as Jayce yelled out behind him. "DON'T-" He was silenced with a firm order from Grayson as Viktor felt a chill go through his body. There were drawings of people here. Different students. Jayce was an unbelievably good artist, but that wasn't quite Viktor's concern right now. There were notes accompanying each piece of paper. Yes and no's. But one word stood out to him the most.

Intersect. 

In large marker, Jayce had written 'Who is the Intersect?'. Even if they didn't know his identity, even lower class citizens in Piltover knew an Intersect was present at the Academy. They were quite a big deal, after all, but this also made them targets and thusly, their identity would be kept secret. Viktor's hand shook and he lowered it. His fingers seemed to pass too close to the blue orb and it suddenly released a small spark of electricity that kissed his fingertips. Viktor's whole body went numb and he wasn't sure what noise he made, but he felt Grayson by his side in an instant, Viktor realizing that he was now on the floor. The orb up on the desk was rattling now. Viktor was breathing heavily. "It's you!" He startled as he heard Jayce blurt out the words behind him and he squeezed his eyes shut. "It wouldn't react like that otherwise! I-" 

"Mr. Talis, sit down!" Grayson ordered firmly. Viktor was still trying to gather himself as the Sheriff handed him his cane. Viktor pushed himself back up on shaky legs, holding a hand to his head. It felt like he was spinning and he could hear Jayce say something again before Grayson snapped at him. He couldn't make out what it was. Why was Jayce looking for him? Well, looking for the Intersect, more like. He swallowed shakily before taking a wobbly step away from the orb. 

"Wh-Who approved your research??" Viktor finally asked, managing to compose himself enough to turn to Jayce with an ever-so-slight glare. Jayce could only seem to stare at him with an open mouth before the question processed. 

"It was an independent study. Listen, I-" Jayce jumped as Viktor held up his hand firmly. "Did that actually hurt??" Jayce sounded far more curious than worried and Viktor's gaze finally sharpened into a full glare. Jayce seemed to realize what he'd said. "I mean, I'm sorry if it did, but it would only react like that if you're an Intersect, so I haven't been able to test the effects-" 

"I have been sent here on the Dean's behalf to remove anything dangerous from the premises." Viktor interrupted, desperately wanting to change the subject and quell the fear in his throat. "This includes you." 

That seemed to finally get Jayce to stop looking at him like he was some rare animal. He looked shocked. "Me?? How am I dangerous??" He asked in disbelief. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and he glanced back at the rather concerning board of people that Jayce clearly had images of without their knowledge. Jayce seemed to shrink in a little as Grayson appeared next to Viktor with the handcuffs. He turned away and started to move towards the door again. "Hey, wait!" Hands suddenly grabbed his shoulders and it only lasted for a moment before they were being yanked away, but it was enough. 

"GET OFF ME!!" The words erupted from Viktor's throat far louder than he meant as he curled in on himself, his whole body becoming wracked with violent tremors. "Get off me. Get off me. Get off me." The words spilled from his mouth desperately and he couldn't tear his eyes away from a fixed point on the floor. Even with no one touching him now, he could still feel the phantom hands holding his shoulders down. His face still. His hips rough. His neck tight. His legs open. Viktor covered his mouth as he felt tears spring to his eyes. "Let go, let go, let go." He begged to no one, his voice nearly making him choke with how fast he spoke. His vision became blurry. As he took in another shaking breath, boots appeared in his view and someone was speaking to him. 

"-iktor. Viktor, it's okay. It's okay." Grayson was speaking firmly. Nothing about the words held gentleness, but it was working, Viktor finally raising his teary eyes to her face. He hadn't even realized he'd practically thrown his cane, his fingers digging into his arms as he hugged himself tightly. Jayce was staring back at him in shock as he was led out by other Enforcers, disappearing into the hall. Grayson held up her hands, making a lowering motion. "Viktor, you're okay. You're not there. He's not here. He's not even there anymore." Another tear escaped him as he gave a nod, his breath shuddery. He felt his face finally go hot with shame as he turned his head away. 

"M-My apologies, Sheriff, th-that was beyond unprofessional of me." Viktor was sure he sounded just as mortified as he felt. "I-In front of a student and y-your officers-" 

"Viktor." Grayson's voice was firm and he jumped, looking up at her. "I have been an Enforcer for many years and I have come across more than a few cases like yours. Your reaction, especially to suddenly being grabbed from behind, is normal. I've seen far worse reactions even." Her tone was stern, but assuring. Viktor was still trying to control his breathing and he swallowed quietly, wiping his face with his hand as she fetched his cane and held it out to him. Viktor took it, relieving some of his weight as he leaned against it. He still couldn't believe he'd just done that. Well... no. No, he couldn't believe Jayce had just done that. Laying his hands on another student so suddenly, let alone the Dean's assistant! "I can add it to his charges."

"No, no. I'm fine. He could not have known and he is in enough trouble with a public endangerment charge as it is." Viktor managed quietly. He turned to look back at the board with the sketches. He... He wasn't even on that board. Jayce hadn't been close to finding him at all. He stared at the orb quietly. "Pl-Please have that contained. I..." He turned his head away in slight humiliation. Grayson seemed to understand, calling out to another Enforcer to firmly lock up any of the orbs found around the apartment. Viktor's eyes landed on a notebook on the desk, which looked like it had been crafted and bound by human hands. The insignia on the front looked as if it had been made by an amateur blacksmith, being a little too messy for a professional. 

Viktor turned to look back at the boards worriedly. He faced Grayson again. "Whatever he was researching would have required my abilities in some regard. I was not quite sure that this would warrant a Council trial, but if he is contemplating meddling with two worlds at once, he is better off in custody. I... I do not think he would have hurt me, but... my judgement has been proven... horrendously wrong before." Viktor's voice was quiet. Grayson gave a small sigh. Viktor turned and moved over to the desk, scooping up the notebook. "I should look through this. I am aware it is evidence, but I feel a scientific eye is needed. I... I also feel I reserve the right, considering this little project of his seemed entirely hinged on finding me." 

"Of course. You have to let the Professor know yourself though." Grayson replied. Viktor nodded. He gave another small tremble and Grayson beckoned to him. "We should get you back to the Academy to sit down. Are you sure you don't want to press charges for a grab like that? I am aware he wouldn't have known, but that was a sure fire way to get you to spiral." She sounded slightly angered by that. 

"...He is not to be tried until tomorrow morning. I will deliver an answer to you once I read through this. I must know what his intentions were with this... With me." Viktor insisted softly. "Would this be alright, Sheriff?" 

"As long as you can give me answers by tonight so I can put it in the documents." Grayson stated in a nonnegotiable tone. Viktor nodded. He glanced over at the chalkboard packed full with Jayce's scribblings again. He wondered if the Jayce in the other world was bright like this. His eyes drifted over to the sketches. Maybe he was an artist too. Viktor wondered if it would be too forward of him to ask, considering there was no way he could've known that otherwise. This Jayce sported no leg brace and quite a bold attitude just from the few words they'd exchanged. It was startlingly different from the calm, kind man that Viktor had spoken to at his encampment. He did have a good feeling that, if this Jayce had known what caused his reaction, he would not have put his hands anywhere near him. Especially with how awed he'd seemed by Viktor. 

Viktor was hoping that look wouldn't be so constant. He did not like being stared at like he was just some pretty jewel. He was smart. He was capable. He had dreams beyond an Intersect. He couldn't wait until he was able to Frost and finally be rid of the title. But... the idea of Singed sitting alone in his tent, staring at the shitty attempts at glass art that Viktor had made when he was younger... Viktor's heart twisted a little. And then that Jayce, looking at him so kindly. Viktor sighed through his nose. His life here was far more preferable and it shouldn't have even been a debate.

It shouldn't have. 

But the idea that Singed would be left with no letters from Heimerdinger and no trace of the one person that so many often referred to as his son... The idea of Singed alone and dully tinkering with broken glass bottles. The idea that that firefighter would return to the encampment, only to be told by Singed that Viktor had left and would never be returning. Viktor's hands tightened on the notebook. While his grievances and guilt over Singed was something Viktor was almost to terms with, that Jayce felt like a new variable because he wanted to know Viktor. And perhaps... Viktor wanted to know him as well.

Grayson said his name in a prompting tone and Viktor moved forward to reach her side. As she started to lead him out of the destroyed apartment, Viktor's mind was already racing. Whatever was decided at the trial, Jayce would be under supervision until Viktor Frosted, due to his knowledge of the Academy Intersect's identity. It had to be assured that he wouldn't go spreading that information around and endangering Viktor's life. He held the notebook tightly, swearing the leather held a warmth to it. 

Undoubtedly, he would be attending the trial. He wanted to hear what Jayce had to say. He wanted his answers. He wanted to know him.

Chapter Text

A Cleaving Rune.

All of Jayce's research and everything he had been planning to create was based on a Cleaving Rune. How much more dangerous could one be??

Despite this, none of his prospective inventions were weapons. A Cleaving Rune was always applied to knives, daggers, axes or swords. It was always applied to slashing weapons. It was a fighting Rune. A Rune meant for combat. Yet... that wasn't at all what Jayce seemed to be using it for. Viktor sat at the desk in his apartment. He was in that comfy sweater again, along with the black pants. He really did like this outfit. The other Jayce had made a good choice. Viktor thumbed through the pages of this Jayce's journal. 

Aren't they lonely??

Viktor felt himself tense at the written question. The rest of the paragraphs beyond this question were about about Intersects. Theories and scenarios. Viktor felt a little standoffish. No, he wasn't lonely. He had people on both sides. If anything, he was worried about leaving the people on one side lonely. He was... Viktor's shoulders sank. Singed had been trying to lure in a cat with some pieces of cheese for three weeks now, but the cat was skittish. Viktor planned on helping him get the cat before he Frosted. Singed had already named her Rio. Viktor's eyes drifted back to the pages. Jayce's theories were becoming a little more scattered and Viktor could actively see him trying to put together a goal with his research. He froze up.

I just want to see her again.

The words were scribbled out and Viktor felt a chill go down his spine. He recalled reading something in the journal earlier about that. He started to flip through it. At the beginning, Jayce had mentioned a mage. A mage that had appeared before him in a blizzard when he was young, saving his life and gifting him the Cleaving Rune, which he had kept. What else had it said? Viktor finally stopped, flattening down the page and drawing his finger down it until he found the sentence that was punctuated with an ink blot indicative of the pen being held there far too long.

Would my mother be proud of me? 

Viktor gave a shaky sigh. "That is not how this works, Jayce." He whispered, putting his head in one of his hands as he flipped the journal back to where he was. Jayce's theories all banked on each world being an identical copy of the next with minor changes. Viktor didn't think he quite grasped the fact that the other world was nothing like this one and the only thing shared between them was the people. Even then, they were of different classes and ages and experiences. He didn't even know if the other Jayce's mother was still around. He wondered if it would be rude to ask. Regardless, Jayce's motivation for this was dangerous. "She is not yours to see, Jayce." Viktor murmured. "This is not a way to come to terms with grief." He hoped that there was another goal in mind.

As he continued reading, he furrowed his brow. Jayce was entertaining the idea of extending the Intersect age limit. Entertaining the idea of anyone having the chance at an Intersection. Energy for one trip there. Energy for one trip back. Those were much more appealing thoughts. Much more fascinating. Viktor furrowed his brow. The problem came with his method. A Cleaving Rune was only meant to split something open. If Jayce was suggesting a slice through reality itself, how were they to close it? He blinked. Jayce seemed to be connecting this to how Intersects switched between worlds. That if he could figure out how they did it without leaving behind openings, maybe he could too. Viktor hadn't taken his head out of his hand the whole time. 

It was like reading a time capsule, as he saw in real time, Jayce start to recognize flaws and risks in his previous entries. It wasn't until about halfway through the journal that he seemed to realize alternate worlds meant alternate selves. 

What happens if two selves meet?

Viktor couldn't even answer that question. When one was born an Intersect, it meant they only exist in one world. Now, this doesn't stop them existing in the multiple timelines that branch off from their decisions, but it meant they were only meant to exist in one world. Restricted to only one reality, but not one singular time. Viktor was the only one of himself. Singed was the only one of himself. If Viktor returned to the other world, there would be no hint of another version of him existing. Even if he Frosted away, a new version of him wouldn't form. There were no alternate reality Viktors. Was that what Jayce meant by lonely? Knowing that they were the only one of themselves to exist? Viktor paused. He hadn't really considered that.

As he continued reading, he was relieved to see that Jayce seemed to give up on the idea of using the Cleaving Rune to meet dead friends or family members. Instead, he was now playing with the idea of trade between worlds, as if they were simply exchanging goods with another region. Viktor wasn't sure how good of an idea that was either. He was more interested in his smaller-scale ideas. That temporary, two-way Intersect trip that could be given to anyone. The idea of extending the Intersect age limit, maybe even-

Erasing the age limit entirely! 

Viktor could only stare at the words. He felt a chill move through his body. Was that smart?? Would that be smart to do?? No one really knew why the abilities of an Intersect capped off at 25, but surely there was a reason for it, right? If there was, not even the 300-year-old Yordle had figured it out yet. The following paragraphs started to become concerning again, Jayce theorizing that combining two alternate selves would make an Intersect. Thank the gods he had no way of testing that one. Alternate selves were too different from one another. The other Jayce was 32 and a firefighter. This one was 24 and a student. They weren't the same. Jayce described worlds like they were mirrors, but in all reality, they were fractured reflections. Jayce's detailed devices were all prototypes on how to open doorways into other realities or teleport the wearer of smaller devices. Viktor really did want to defend him, but... Jayce was messing around with things that he did not understand. None of it for a reason that particularly stood out. 

His notes were rambling and, even if Jayce had become distracted by this side project of his, Viktor wasn't sure how far he would've gotten in the Academy if this was how disorganized he was with his thoughts and theories. Jayce didn't have a single clear goal or idea. Merely concepts and phantoms of ones. Viktor shook his head. He wasn't even sure that working with an Intersect would've helped this mess at all. Finally, Jayce's notes seemed to steer away from alternate worlds and focus on this one. He was penning ways for quick travel.  A way to transport goods near instantaneously across Runeterra. If the Cleaving Rune could open to other realities, why couldn't they use it to chop open their own a little bit? It was a relatively decent idea, but the problem still lay in how they would close up those openings. 

Surprisingly, Viktor opened the next page to find Runes upon Runes sketched inside like an index. Nearly all of them were crossed out except for a few. 

Binding Rune (Heard bad things about it; unpredictable) 

Stitch Rune (Most specific; most possible?)

Healing Rune (Vague; low-level, common Rune)

Sealing Rune (Specific; might not open again once sealed?) 

Stitch Rune. Such a specific Rune was something Jayce would easily have to hunt for. Viktor could see the train of thought. With the Sealing Rune, there ran a risk of not being able to open a hole in the same spot again. But with the Stitch Rune, they could break open the same place over and over, like tearing stitches. The thought made Viktor's skin prickle uncomfortably and he gave a small shudder. When he finished the journal, he could say, without hesitation, that Jayce was a smart man. He was an unbelievably smart man, but his organization had much to be desired and his goals were far too hefty and overblown. Perhaps his later, contained ideas would be more helpful. A way to teleport large amounts of goods would undoubtedly help their city prosper. 

But Jayce's ideas of messing with alternate worlds were dangerous. They were so dangerous that he knew Professor Heimerdinger would have him locked away if he saw them. Viktor had to attend the trial the next day, just so he could see what Jayce had to say about everything. He wanted to know what ideas he wanted to attempt. How far he was willing to tear. Viktor closed the journal and began to pen a letter to Grayson, explaining what he felt the most dangerous points of Jayce's research was. What the Councilors would question him about in his trial. 

When Viktor returned from delivering the letter, his knee was so sore that he could barely get up the stairs. He knew why. It had started to rain outside. It was nearly pouring and the change in pressure agitated his bones. Viktor laid back on his bed, letting out a shaky exhale as he pulled his knee up to his chest. He began to desperately massage it, his fingers trembling. He could hear the rain pattering outside. He liked rain. He liked rain. He had to remind himself that he liked rain. He did. He did. He did. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. 

Whenever it was raining, he'd found himself able to poke a hole through to the other world. It had only happened ever since that day. Viktor had boiled it down to his emotions and energy being so highstrung during this kind of weather that he was able to glimpse into his other world just for a little bit. Viktor tried to focus. He buried his face against his blanket and his head suddenly began to fill with static. He furrowed his brow. There. He focused harder. 

"-atch cold, my dear. Come inside." Singed was holding open his tent for the soaked tortoiseshell cat, who instantly bolted inside. She usually accepted his invitation to come inside during bad weather, but would hiss and swat if either Viktor or Singed tried to interact with her further. Once the weather was clear, she would bolt away again. It was pouring there as well. Parts of the encampment were prone to flooding, so Viktor wondered if the volunteers were running around. He and Singed lived a little higher up so it wasn't really a concern of theirs. Singed's clear eye drifted over to the smaller, empty tent pressed against the side of his own. His shoulders slightly sank and he let out a small sigh. He remained in the opening of his own tent, his arms crossed before glancing up in what seemed to be surprise. 

"Mr. Talis, what brings you to this side? This portion is not in danger of flooding." Singed said, raising a brow. The older Jayce appeared in a raincoat. He held out two folded raincoats and a... Viktor paused and a soft smile quirked his lips. A bag of cat food. Singed seemed taken back as he stared at it.

"Your son mentioned that you've been trying to lure in one of the strays. I figured this might work better than some old cheese." Jayce said, smiling. Singed's eyes had brightened and he took the pile. Jayce had looked over at the smaller tent and his own smile dropped as he seemed to take note of its emptiness. "Wh-Where is he?? He's not caught out there, right?? It's a downpour and the river is flooding." Jayce sounded panicked. "He's not trapped in his pond, is he??" He was already taking steps forward before yelping as Singed grabbed him, pulling him back. Singed shook his head.

"Viktor will be back next week. He has left for now." Singed replied. Jayce only seemed to stare at him in dismay. "I know him to be safe, Mr. Talis. Rest assured, you will see him again next week. Every other week, he goes and stays with an old friend of mine." Jayce seemed to relax upon hearing this was normal and that Viktor was, in fact, staying somewhere. 

"Right. Sorry, I just... I wouldn't want him stuck out in something like this. Windy, cold, wet." Jayce gave a weak chuckle. "He... He told me it took him a while to like the rain again." Singed seemed to watch Jayce with exasperated, yet softened eyes. 

"My boy can take care of himself, Mr. Talis." His voice was only a little scolding and Jayce jumped a little. 

"I-I know, sir, I wasn't trying to imply that he couldn't!" Jayce was practically tripping over himself to apologize and come up with a good explanation and Singed seemed to enjoy watching him flounder. 

Viktor inhaled shakily as he opened his eyes again. That was all the energy he could expend right then. His body sank down into the sheets, exhausted now. He was touched that Jayce had remembered what he said about the cat. And... about the rain. He felt warm and his fingers lightly curled into the sheets beneath him. His eyes drifted over to this Jayce's journal, which still lay on his desk. His theories. 

Extending the Intersect age limit? Erasing it completely? Could such things be possible? Would he have to leave Singed behind? Would he...? That Jayce seemed so kind. Viktor knew he couldn't let himself be fooled by kindness from a volunteer again, but... Viktor's mind drifted. He would have to get a read on this Jayce as well. Was he kind? Viktor furrowed his brow. Did he want to risk messing with some unspoken balance like this? All he wanted was to see everyone. Even if they were worlds apart. Was that so much to ask? 

Chapter Text

Viktor only ever felt safe enough in his dreams. Intersects' were most known for their weekly switches between worlds and even Viktor's ability to peek through when his emotions were high enough was something a little more common. There were other abilities that had yet to be explored and Viktor had to make the most of his before he assumably lost all his abilities once he Frosted. Thunder distantly rumbled above him as he sat at the edge of his pond. His safe place. Once again, it all stretched back to that day. Once the real pond had no longer become safe, he'd created a second one in his dreams. He'd always been a lucid dreamer, ever since he was young, but this rarely ever felt like a dream and much more like he'd created his own little place in the fabric of reality. He sat on the edge of the pond, his legs already in the water. It glittered like stars, looking like a galaxy in liquid form, rather than the reflection of the rolling lavender cloud above.

This time, Viktor had allowed rain into his space. He could feel it pattering along his skin. He only wore the sweater, though the fabric wasn't becoming wet. The trees around him had shimmering leaves and dark, metallic trunks. The grass was a deep, velvety purple. His space. His own space. Viktor hugged himself tightly. The rain fell lightly, barely disturbing the surface of his pond. His hair always held an ethereal white glow in this place. It was never too cold and never too hot. It was always perfect. Viktor sighed before starting to tug at the sweater. He slipped it off and folded it quietly, setting it to the side. That colorful webbing stretched down his body from just beneath his pectoral muscles. Gods, he wished they looked this pretty in either world. 

First and foremost, Singed was, by all technicalities, a doctor. What kind of doctor? Any. Said so by the man himself. And if there was one thing that Singed was all for, it was body modification. In fact, it even seemed to be an area of study he'd held in his previous world. Regardless, Singed had been the first one Viktor had trusted with his want to change his appearance. He didn't think Heimerdinger would be as understanding, considering he was a Yordle. Singed had gently denied him any surgery until he felt he could handle the procedure. He had been waiting for Viktor's 21st birthday, a milestone day, according to the rest of the encampment. They didn't make it there. Not before that day did. 

The week Viktor returned to Singed's after the incident, he had surgery. Was Singed a certified or trusted surgeon? No. Not by any means. But his work had been clean and Viktor's scarring had healed without any hiccups. No infection and no bruising. Undoubtedly, it had been one of the things to raise his spirits after what had happened. When he'd asked Singed how he learned to perform such careful surgeries, Singed had assured him that Heimerdinger would rip a hole through space and time to kill him if he ever told Viktor anything about that. Viktor reached up, tracing the multicolored scarring with his fingers. He gave a small sigh. They were barely noticeable outside this place. That Jayce wouldn't have had a chance in the world at seeing them. 

Viktor pushed himself off the bank and into the water. It encompassed his body warmly, each movement he made sending gold ripples along the surface. He made his way to the center of the pond and tipped his head back, closing his eyes and letting the rain patter against his skin. Thunder gave another distant rumble, but it would never grow closer. Not here. Viktor's shoulders relaxed. His heart was soft and rhythmic. He finally opened his eyes and furrowed his brow. Something had entered his space. He wasn't nearly as panicked about it as he felt he should've been, but only because the presence felt familiar. It felt familiar and nonthreatening. Viktor paused and turned to look towards the treeline. 

He could see another head of glowing white hair behind the leaves. Cautious, confused movement. Viktor stopped. Was that really...? "Jayce?" He called out, his voice carrying through the rain clearly. The figure jumped before starting in his direction. It was. Jayce's own hair was glowing an ethereal white and he was dressed in a black tank top with brown cargo pants. He was barefoot. He looked like he'd just been pulled out of bed. His beard remained dark-colored and he stopped at the edge of the water, staring around the space with wide eyes. Viktor could only stare at him. Had he... brought this Jayce into his space? 

The Jayce jumped as there was another distant roll of thunder. He looked shaken and terrified. Viktor paused. "Jayce." He spoke again, waving his hand to get the older man's attention. Jayce's eyes landed on him, wide and confused. He seemed to stare at the water as Viktor took a few steps forward, sending those gold ripples through it. "Are you okay?" 

"Uh, I don't... know." Jayce answered honestly, his eyes finally moving up to Viktor's again. He still kept looking around like he was terrified something would jump out at him. "Where am I??" Viktor had a bad feeling that, yes, he had just pulled this Jayce into his made-up mind space. 

"Can you sit down?" Viktor asked politely, his arms still folded in front of himself. The scars would be so much more obvious here and he didn't want to freak this one out any more than he was. Viktor had learned that this kind of thing was a big deal in this Jayce's world. But in a bad way. Jayce seemed surprised by that before nodding. He inhaled shakily as he awkwardly sat down, his leg out to the side. He was wearing some kind of tight, fabric brace on it that wrapped around the underside of his foot. Viktor carefully approached the bank, though he remained in the water a foot or so back. "Where were you before this?" He asked. Jayce stared at him with an open mouth. Amusement made Viktor's lips quirk a little. 

"I was... I was on my couch... in my apartment." Jayce said, his brow furrowed as he started to recount the events. "I'd just gotten back from volunteer work. I didn't bother changing my pants or trying to make it to my room since I was so tired..." He glanced around again. "Maybe I should've." He'd just fallen asleep then. And Viktor had managed to pull him here. "This is... the most controlled I have ever felt in a dream. I'm actually... moving my body myself... and speaking the words I want to." Jayce sounded downright baffled and it was Viktor's turn to be surprised, wondering if that wasn't how things were supposed to be. "Wow, uh... This is embarrassing..." He put his head in his hand. "I guess I did like talking to him." He muttered it to himself. 

Viktor watched him, tipping his head. The amusement crept in fully, him coming to the realization that Jayce thought he was dreaming Viktor like this. "What is so embarrassing? Is this not how we met?" Viktor asked calmly, raising a brow at him. Jayce jumped a little. 

"Oh, I..." He lowered his arms to rest on his knees as he looked Viktor over with a quiet sigh. He glanced away, seeming awkward. "This scene is... gorgeous in an ungodly kind of way. Everything's gentle and shining." Jayce glanced over before looking away again. "Even you." 

"Even me?" Viktor echoed flatly, his eyes instantly narrowing as he watched him. "Implying what, exactly?" And here, one could tell that Viktor had been raised by Singed, considering that watching Jayce scramble to defend his wording brought an evil delight to his chest.

"I didn't mean anything bad by it! I-I just meant everything is glowing and you’re glowing too. Everything's all... all glittering and beautiful." Jayce couldn't even seem to look at him. An awkward silence fell between them. Viktor glanced up at him, his shoulders slightly scrunched as he turned away. "Like you." The words made his eyes widen and he turned to look at Jayce in surprise. Jayce didn't seem to know what to do for a moment. "...Is that inappropriate to say to a dream??" He seemed to be asking himself that, completely frozen and mortified. Jayce buried his face in his hand. "...It's inappropriate that I'm dreaming this at all, fuck." His voice was muffled and defeated.

Viktor watched him quietly. He hesitated before lowering his arms. Jayce glanced up and his eyes widened as he saw the scarring before he scrunched himself up. "What is wrong with me?!" He yelled into his hands. "Why would I think that?! Fuck!!" Viktor tipped his head as he moved closer to the bank. He knew it was a big deal where Jayce was from, but he wasn't sure how to convey that it was fine. Jayce let out a heavy sigh into his hand and Viktor just hoped that he wasn't upset because... He paused. 

"Do you find this disgusting?" Viktor asked uncertainly, his shoulders tensing a little. He turned his head away. "Me...?" 

"No! No, I don't! I don't, I just... I don't know why I would assume he's actually... Fuck, is he??" Jayce seemed to be muttering to himself now as he looked Viktor over. "I didn't see his chest, it was behind the bank." He paused. "Not that I was thinking about that!" He added to Viktor quickly, his eyes wide. "A-About you like that!" He was scrambling over himself again. Jayce stopped. "...Do you even care? You're... You're not real. Should I even be asking?" He sounded twice as defeated now as his shoulders sank. 

"Does it bother you that much?" Viktor asked after a moment, keeping his voice soft. Jayce paused before glancing aside. 

"I'm worried I'm unconsciously being an ass." Jayce admitted quietly. "He's homeless. And he's a victim. Why would I ever assume he's also...?" Jayce buried his face in his hand again. "Fuck... And the fact that I'm dreaming about him at all. Like this. This... This isn't appropriate." Viktor watched him a little longer before deciding to try and ease his mind. 

"You did see them just for a moment. You thought them odd shadows. They healed well." Viktor spoke, watching as Jayce's eyes went wide and he looked up at him. Jayce seemed to look him over again. "This area was not very well lit when you saw them, and, as you said, you were not trying to look anyway." 

"...You're right." Jayce said softly. He did seem less uncertain now. "Yeah, you're... you're right." Viktor nodded. Jayce stared at him before looking away again. "I can't believe I'm dreaming about this poor kid. Fuck." Jayce muttered. He still sounded guilty for it. Viktor paused. He hesitated before pulling himself up out of the water. "Oh, christ..." Jayce quickly turned away. Viktor sat on the edge of the pond again, keeping himself turned away from the older man. 

"Could I have my sweater, Jayce?" Viktor requested quietly. Jayce handed it to him so fast that Viktor started laughing. He pulled it on, letting the warm fabric cover him again. "If you were to be dreaming about me, why do you think so?" He turned to Jayce, a brow raised. Those black pants formed on his body as he pulled his legs up out of the water. Golden lines were wrapped around his knee. Jayce glanced over, seeming to realize he was fully dressed now. He paused.

"...I don't know. I liked talking to you. To him. And what happened to him, it makes me so... fucking angry. I remember feeling bad for that guy when the story aired on the news! It sounded like all the homeless he was feeding just turned on him like drug-crazed addicts and beat him to death. I didn't realize that... I just wasn't being told the whole story." He scoffed and put his head in his hand. "I really should've." Viktor hesitated before reaching out to his hand. He scooped his own beneath it, seeming to startle Jayce. "What're you-" 

He cut himself off as Viktor held his hand quietly. Jayce didn't seem to know what to do for a moment, glancing down. Viktor rubbed his thumb over Jayce's knuckles, his eyes soft. Jayce hesitated before his own hand reacted, holding Viktor's back. "Are his hands really this small?" He asked quietly, seeming surprised. That made Viktor's face go hot and he scoffed. 

"Or are your hands that ridiculously big?" He shot back, making Jayce glance up. Jayce gave a weak laugh, though he still seemed uncertain. Viktor watched him. "You remembered what I said about the cat."

"Of course I did. I was trying so hard not to laugh at the idea of this old man trying to lure in this cat with scraps of cheese." Jayce replied, chuckling to himself. Viktor gave his own quiet laugh. Thunder rolled overhead. 

"And you remembered what I said about the rain." Viktor prompted, tipping his head.

"I did. That was something I was being trusted with... I think. I don't think that's something you... or he... he's told many people." Jayce tripped over his words. Viktor shook his head. "Exactly, that's why I wanted to remember it. I don't know how hard it was for him to tell me that and I don't want to forget it." He insisted. Viktor scanned him over quietly before smiling and giving his hand a squeeze. Jayce paused and looked over before squeezing his hand back. 

"I will, eh, 'see you later', Jayce." Viktor said softly. Carefully, he pushed the other out of his space and Jayce was gone. Viktor's hand was still warm and that dark purple grass was still flattened from where he'd been sitting. Viktor hadn't realized just how hot his face was until then, but it felt like it was on fire. He'd been trying not to think about it, since it sounded borderline ridiculous, but unfortunately... Yes. This Jayce was making his decision so much harder. 

Chapter Text

Jayce's trial couldn't have gone worse if he'd tried. Viktor had even read his journal and he had barely been able to keep up with Jayce's inconsistent answers. Good gods, what was this man thinking?? Every question he was asked was met with such a desperate and even manic reply that it had the members of the Council glancing at each other like they had found a mangy dog in an alleyway. Cassandra Kiramman, who was Jayce's patron, couldn't have looked more mortified the entire time. Viktor was embarrassed for her. Heimerdinger had clearly been trying to get Jayce to give answers that would be display his intelligence, but Jayce would get so wrapped up in his explanations that he sounded borderline delirious by the end of each one. Of course, Viktor could also tell this may have been due to nerves. Jayce was standing rigidly straight under a single spotlight in an otherwise completely dark room. Personally, Viktor would've been sick by now. He was barely listening when Jayce's words cut in. 

"-know who the Intersect is! All of you do!" 

He was practically yelling at this point, but that certainly didn't matter with how Viktor's blood suddenly ran cold and his hearing collapsed into a horrifying ringing. Jayce had started to look around the room and he was scanning over the crowd. Viktor's hearing snapped back into place as one of the women in an elegant dress and a fancy, tall headpiece moved in front of him. Her husband seemed to join her. "Go, boy. Get out of here." The man hissed to him. All around him, disapproving, shocked gasps and murmurs were spreading through the crowd of elites. Sure, Jayce didn't know his name, but he knew what the Intersect looked like. And if there was one thing the upper class hated, it was exposure of their secrets. Jayce had just lost his trial.

A middle-class citizen should not know the Intersect. In fact, Viktor was worried Jayce might've just put a target on his own back for this. Because how dare he call out the... 'poor, crippled Zaunite Intersect' like this? The elites were all laughably protective of him, like he was a shiny toy that they didn't feel like sharing. They likely felt much more threatened by Jayce than he did. Grayson was already beckoning to her officers, which Jayce seemed to take note of.

"He's here, isn't he?? He's in the crowd somewhere! I can help you! You have to listen to me!!" Jayce yelled, his eyes wide as he continued to try and find Viktor. The elites instantly started to yell out profanities and voice their outrage as Heimerdinger tried to calm everyone down. The Enforcers finally came up next to Viktor and he quickly followed them, his heart racing and his hands shaking. They opened the doors and Viktor jumped as Jayce yelled out, looking back for a moment. "HEY!!" Jayce stared at him in desperation and distress before the Enforcers got Viktor's attention again. He allowed them to lead him out, the doors to the Council Hall shutting behind him. 

"That kid is out of his damn mind." One of the Enforcers muttered to the other as they led Viktor down the hall. "Calling out the Intersect like that in a room of those pearl-clutchers. He has a fucking death wish." He turned back to Viktor and cleared his throat to take on a more professional tone. "Sir, as per protocol, we will be taking you to Professor Heimerdinger's office within the Council Building. An officer will stand guard outside until the Professor comes to collect you." He stated formally. Viktor nodded, his hands still shaking on his cane. He wasn't sure he understood what was happening with Jayce.

As an assistant to the Dean, Viktor usually attended school events in his stead when the Professor was busy. Which was quite often. Viktor had attended all kinds of presentations and showcases and class activities. In fact, in order to be admitted to the Academy, one of the more recent rules dictated that one must be able to present their work in a clear and concise fashion. Jayce had been accepted and had a patron. Viktor was sure he'd even seen Jayce give a presentation before. He should have been more than capable, but all Viktor had just seen was a mess. Each of his answers had started fine, but something would set him off and make him stumble over them. 

Viktor was led to Heimerdinger's office and he thanked the Enforcers before they locked him inside. Heimerdinger used his Aacdemy office much more than his Councilor office and one could tell with how dusty this one was. He could see the dust floating through sunbeams from the window. Viktor wasn't sure if he could even sit down anywhere, knowing it was all dust.  His cane tapped the carpet worriedly. Jayce had no chance of a peaceful resolution now. He was most definitely expelled, but they would have to find a place to put him if he was to be imprisoned. They couldn't send him to Stillwater and risk Viktor's identity being spread amongst criminals. He hoped they didn't just decide to... Viktor swallowed quietly. A death penalty because of him would keep him wide awake at night. He didn't know if he could do it. He was shaking. 

It felt like hours before there was a rushed knock at the door. Viktor had settled right there on the floor, his head in his hands. The door unlocked and Heimerdinger came rushing in. "Viktor! Viktor, my boy!" He quickly moved over and Viktor glanced up at him. "Are you alright??" 

"A bit dusty, I'm afraid." Viktor replied quietly, giving a weak smile. "What was decided of the star pupil?" Heimerdinger gave a heavy sigh, his ears twitching madly.

"Bolts and gears, Viktor, I've never known him to be like this! I've attended his presentations! He is anxious, yes, but when he's passionate about his subject, he's typically so well-spoken! I barely followed a thing he was saying up there!" Heimerdinger started to pace back and forth as he waved his hand in vague irritation. "He wants to rip a hole into alternate realities! He wants to meddle with the abilities of Intersects! I have never heard more dangerous and brash ideas in my centuries of living!" Heimerdinger paused. "Get up off the floor, my boy, it's dusty!" Viktor snorted and rolled his eyes. He used his cane to push himself up. "He is being kept in an isolated holding cell until we can decide a proper punishment. We overruled the death penalty vote by one." 

Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. He really didn't understand this. "What would his chances have been if he had not spoken of me? Expulsion?" He asked glumly. 

"...Expulsion." Heimerdinger agreed, his ears twitching. "But no, the foolish boy had to bring up the Intersect-"

"In front of all the Piltover Elites and the Council." Viktor finished, his own sigh escaping him. Heimerdinger shook his head in disappointment and disbelief. "Professor, may I return to my apartment for the day or am I still needed?" Viktor's voice held only the slightest tremble to it. Heimerdinger's ears sank as he turned to look at him.

"...Head on home, lad. I don't doubt this has shaken you." He said sympathetically. Viktor nodded. "May I expect you bright and early in the morning?" 

"Of course, Professor." Viktor managed a smile as he bowed his head. He turned away and his cane clicked against the tiled floor. As he passed by an open hallway, he sensed the danger coming just a second too late before squeezing his eyes shut and sighing as someone yelled out.

"Viktor!" 

"Ah, Councilor Salo, good afternoon." Viktor managed through his forced smile. He turned to face him, Salo having stopped and waited until he did. He had to fight back his flinch as Salo hugged him tightly. He knew Salo meant well, but he still wasn't too good about the sudden touches.

"How are you, Viktor? That man looked at you like some rabid dog." Salo said, frowning as he pulled back and looked Viktor over. Viktor wished he could've been appreciative of Salo's concern, but he knew it was because he was an Intersect and nothing more. Once he Frosted, he genuinely didn't think Salo would pay him any mind. Unfortunately, it did seem like Salo thought they were friends.

"I am fine, Councilor. I was just startled. I have never known him to be like that. He has always been a bright and put-together student." Viktor stated, hoping to get some of the heat off Jayce's back. 

"Clearly, he was not. The death penalty vote was blocked, unfortunately, so I'm afraid you might still be in danger from him. He sounded as if he wanted to tie you to a table! Every word out of his mouth was incoherent madness! I cannot believe the Kirammans were his patrons!" Salo scoffed, burying his head in his hand. He turned to Viktor again, a mirage of gentleness in his eyes. "Rest assured, Viktor, we will do our best to keep you safe from animals like that." 

"Truly, there is no need, Councilor." Viktor managed before his hands tightened as Salo spoke again. 

"What happened to you over there will not happen here, Viktor. We can't even allow the possibility." Salo said firmly, crossing his arms over his chest. Viktor hated that the Council knew that. He hated that all of them had that information about him. All he got was pitying looks and sympathies. 

"I doubt he would do me such harm." Viktor replied with a frown. Salo blinked before clicking his tongue and shaking his head. 

"Do not let that boy's pretty face confuse you, Viktor. Those were the ramblings of someone deeply unwell. Whatever facade he's been playing at must have finally broken." Salo did seem genuinely stressed about this, even if it wasn't for a kind-hearted reason. Viktor sighed through his nose. "Viktor, every member of the Council cares only for your health and wellbeing. You are quite special, I'll have you know." Salo told him with a smile. Viktor stared at him doubtfully. 

"And when I Frost? Will they still care?" He asked, his voice purposefully weakening. "Or will I be cast out to die?" Salo stared at him and he saw genuine guilt in his eyes accompany his hesitation. 

"No, Viktor, no! When you Frost, it will be a celebration. I am sure you will be granted a comfortable life." Salo spoke assuringly, but there wasn't much else behind it. He sounded like he didn't even know. Viktor looked him over before turning away and starting to limp down the hall. "Viktor!" Salo moved after him. Viktor could tell Salo had been reaching out to his shoulder, but he stopped himself and instead moved a little faster to be in his line of sight again. "Viktor!" His voice became scolding and Viktor startled a little, stopping in place and holding his cane against himself. He was admittedly surprised that Salo didn't try to grab him by the shoulder like some of the other Councilors did. He only ever grabbed him when Viktor was able to see him. Salo seemed to have to catch his breath for a moment and Viktor was a little amused at how obvious Salo's lack of physical exercise was. "Do you really think us so cruel as to cast you away once you Frost? Everyone loves you. You are smart and quite pleasing to the eye." 

"I am crippled. I am a Zaunite, pulled from the deepest of the trenches." Viktor answered bluntly, his eyes meeting Salo's. "Once the title of Intersect is stripped away, that is all I am." Salo instantly frowned again as he opened his mouth. "Councilor." Viktor stopped him before he could speak. "The only reason you view me as you do is because I am an Intersect. It was not for my intelligence, my prose, or even my face. It was because I am something rare that you can giggle over having limited knowledge of with your partners." 

"Viktor!" Salo was taken back as he stared at him in shock. He looked genuinely hurt and confused. Viktor bit his tongue before turning his head away. He did feel slightly guilty, knowing that was far out of line. Salo didn't even seem angry, just hurt.

"...My apologies. I think I am too overwhelmed for a conversation right now." He conceded, his eyes fixed on the floor. Salo watched him and he seemed to soften a little. 

"R-Right then. Please get proper rest. Is there anything you need? Food or clothes or comforts?" Salo asked, offering his hand. Viktor never took it and Salo always had to retract it and pretend he hadn't done that at all. 

"I will be fine without such things, Councilor. Thank you for the generous offers. I must return home now." Viktor gave him a smile and Salo nodded, stepping back and watching him pass. He heard Salo sigh quietly before his footsteps retreated. Viktor didn't mean to be so cold to someone with such wealth and influence, but it just wasn't possible they could be friends. No matter if Salo believed they were. He never would've even sniffed in his direction if he hadn't been an Intersect. Viktor finally made his way out of the Council Building and into the streets. His leg ached from the stairs. 

Maybe he could pull this Jayce into his space, like he had with the other one. Viktor paused. Did he want to do that? Truth be told, this Jayce still seemed a little off. He couldn't hurt Viktor in his own mind space, but Viktor was worried he wouldn't get any answers again either. He wasn't sure why this Jayce was such trouble. The other one's biggest concern just seemed to be what flavor of cup noodle he wanted every time he went out for groceries.

Chapter Text

The rain was gone tonight. Thunder still rumbled overhead. Viktor stared up at the rolling clouds. He had taken a slightly different look, figuring it would be much harder to convince this Jayce that this was a dream. His hair was still white, but everything from his shoulders down was now a silhouetted, ethereal white as well. He sat at the edge of the starry pond, though his glow did not seem to affect the surface of the water. He still didn't know if it would be a good idea. He hadn't actually had a direct conversation with this Jayce like he had with the other one. Viktor gave a quiet sigh and slipped his eyes shut. 

Something entered his space. 

The crashing of something falling so unceremoniously into the underbrush behind him was so funny that Viktor had to suppress his laughter to the point where it hurt his chest. The other Jayce had entered his mind space so cleanly and quietly. Why was this one such a disaster?? Viktor sighed. He could hear someone struggling to get up. "H-Hello??" Jayce's voice was confused and loud. The space wasn't that big. Jayce would find him. At least, good gods, Viktor hoped so. He rolled his eyes. After a few doubt-filled minutes, Jayce's wandering footsteps finally moved in his direction. "Hey!" They quickened and Viktor immediately pushed himself off the bank and into the water, giving a hop forward so Jayce wouldn't grab him and cause him to freak out. His scars weren't visible in this form. Viktor turned to look back at him with a furrowed brow. Sure enough, Jayce certainly had been about to grab him by the shoulder. His own hair was glowing white and he was still in his Academy uniform. 

"You have quite a bad habit of grabbing people. Was my screaming not indicative enough before?" Viktor asked quietly, his arms moving to hug himself as he fully backed up to the center of the pond. Thunder rolled overhead from the thick, lavender clouds. Jayce stared at him, seeming completely and utterly uninterested in the environment. 

"Oh." Jayce straightened back up, seeming taken back. "Sorry." Viktor stared at him before raising a brow. "Can I please see you??" Before Viktor could answer, he was shocked to hear a splash as Jayce unabashedly slipped into the water, clothes and all. Viktor instantly began to back away, his eyes wide and his body language frightened. Jayce stopped, seeming to take note of that. Viktor could only stare. He hadn't thought Jayce would just get in. He swallowed shakily. "...You're scared of me. Right." Jayce quickly moved backwards again. He didn't leave the pond, but kept himself on the opposite side of it. "...Is this a dream??" 

"Is it?" Viktor answered, staring back at him. He reached backwards and heaved himself up to sit on the opposite bank. He didn't like another person in the pond, but he especially didn't like how prickly it felt to be in the pond at the same time as them. Jayce seemed to be scanning him over far too intently for his liking. "Grabbing. Staring. Not waiting for permission before doing anything. Any other unpleasant things you do?" Viktor asked flatly. Jayce paused and glanced up to meet his eyes. 

"Sorry, I'm not trying to. But this might've been my only glimpse of the Intersect and it's his face. I guess I don't remember the rest of the body." Jayce instantly fell into muttering on the second sentence, clearly only talking to himself now. "Everyone in the room was so angry at me for talking about him." Viktor let him mutter to himself. 

"Did you even learn his name?" Viktor finally interjected, raising a brow at him. Jayce instantly fell quiet, that seeming to send his gears to a screeching stop. After a moment, his eyes went wide.

"No. No, I didn't, I should've asked! I should've asked him instead of grabbing him!" Jayce held his hands up to his head, slumping back against the bank. "Fuck! If I knew his name, this would be easier!" Jayce squeezed his eyes shut. "I'm such an idiot." At least he was showing something other than manic fascination now. Jayce seemed to take a few deep breaths to calm himself. "Can I please come closer?"

"Why?" Viktor instantly became guarded again. Jayce stared at him before starting forward. "If you were planning to do so anyway, why did you ask??" Viktor felt a twist of irritation in his chest and Jayce flinched as lightening suddenly struck the ground next to the pond. The thunderclap that followed had him right back against the opposite bank again, his eyes wide. "As I thought. All bad habits. Why do you think you can just do things if you ask? There is a second part where you have to wait for the person's answer." 

"Sorry, I get too ahead of myself sometimes." Jayce admitted, though his eyes kept glancing up at the sky, clearly wary of it now. Viktor watched him. It wasn't just that. Jayce had no discipline. Well, he had lost both parents before his age even hit the double-digits. Of course he wouldn't have discipline. "Can I come look at you please?" 

"Will you grab me?" Viktor asked in a guarded tone. Jayce shook his head. "Fine." Jayce started to make his way through the water and he finally stopped in front of Viktor, staring up at him curiously. He reached out to his leg and Viktor tensed up. 

"I'm not grabbing you. I'm just looking." Jayce seemed to be assuring him, but he still put his hand on Viktor's leg anyway. Viktor's fingers curled tightly into the grass on either side of him as he fought the urge to kick the other away. He wasn't doing anything. He wasn't doing anything. Jayce reached out to his face, poking his moles and brushing a finger over his cheekbone. "Sharp features. Pale skin. Two visible moles." Jayce seemed to be taking note. "I think your hair was definitely brown." Jayce reached up and he gave a strand of Viktor's hair a slight tug, making him flinch. "Sorry!" He pulled his hand back and continued examining him. "Skinny." Viktor felt like he was about to pass out. His heart was rocketing in his chest in a terrible, terrible way. 

He didn't like that hand on his leg. He didn't like all these touches. He finally squeezed his eyes shut and he felt Jayce's hands both yank away. "Oh, uh... you're... you're crying?? I-I'm sorry, are you...?" Jayce sounded confused and uncertain as Viktor felt that first tear roll down his cheek. He couldn't open his eyes. He was terrified. He heard the water swish and he managed to open his eyes. Jayce had moved backwards, seeming taken back. He took a step forward and reached out again. If it had been anywhere else, Viktor would've been fine if he could see it, but Jayce touched his hand right to his lower thigh. Above the knee. The panic that seared through Viktor's body made him lash out and he heard Jayce yelp, the other holding his face. He had bruised his jaw and Viktor inhaled shakily, holding his hand to his head. 

Tears ran down his face from wide open eyes. His heart was rattling his chest. "Don't touch. Don't touch, don't touch, don't touch." Viktor whispered, starting to push himself back with his good leg. Jayce seemed dismayed and guilty as he moved forward, starting to try and catch him again. "Stop. Touching. Me." Viktor's voice was shredded as he spoke again, barely able to breathe. "You have to stop. You have to stop touching me." It was too much. It was too much. Jayce quickly pulled his hand back, his other hand still holding his jaw. He looked completely guilty now. Viktor's back hit a tree trunk and he curled up against it, his hands buried in his glowing hair. 

"I-I'm sorry. I'm really not trying to upset you. I don't even realize it half the time a-and no one's really said anything. I... I really do just kind of..." Jayce seemed surprised by that, clearly having given that no thought at all. Viktor glanced over at him through his tears. Jayce stared at him. "...Are you sure this is a dream?" Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "Wait, are you actually here??" That unhinged excitement crept in as Viktor heard the loud sound of Jayce starting to heave himself up out of the water. "Wh-What's your name?? How are you here? What is this place?? Hey-" Viktor saw his hand reaching out again and he needed this man gone. There was nothing gentle about the way he shoved Jayce out of his space. He needed him gone. 

Viktor was finally left alone again and he let out a weak sigh of relief. He was overwhelmed and in pain. He still felt tingling everywhere he'd been touched and he hated it. He hated it. He knew Jayce had no ill intent, but he also seemed to have no concept of personal space and Viktor was going to going to be sick. He'd been trying to bear with it, but he couldn't. He could not handle someone like that. He hiccuped shakily as he curled up on his side, finally lying down on the grass. He felt safe now that Jayce was gone again. He didn't want anyone else here right now except himself. As he thought, he'd gotten no answers. He still had no idea what Jayce's plans were or his goals. At this point, maybe he didn't even want to know. 

Was there any way that he could just talk to this man?? Why did Jayce need to come near him?? Why did he need to have his hands on him?? Viktor hugged himself tightly. He didn't even know why he'd tried. They'd barely even spoken here. Maybe his good experiences with the other Jayce had misled him. It wasn't like this Jayce was evil or hateful. He seemed polite, but he just... had no discipline, no concept of personal space, and no dampeners when it came to his excitement. The moment he'd realized it might actually be Viktor in front of him, he'd instantly started to ignore all the things he'd just learned about approaching him, in favor of his curiosity. 

Viktor's breathing was starting to relax and so was his racing heart, but he wouldn't get up yet. He didn't know if he could. That had been far too much. He hiccuped softly. The sweater slowly started to appear on his body and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. He buried his face in the sleeves. "I am not... a coward like this." Viktor whispered furiously to himself. "I am not a coward, he was just too much for me." Viktor hid his head under one of his arms, just desperately trying to convince himself. "He was just too much. It is not just me this time. He was too much." Viktor inhaled shakily. "H-He was too much." 

There was no one here to convince but himself and it wasn't working. "It is not me. It is not me. I am not the problem. I... I was never the problem. I..." Viktor couldn't remember what else he'd been taught to say for affirmations. He kept his eyes squeezed shut. "Not me. Him. The problem is not me." He felt like he was going to be sick again. "It was too much... It was just too much this time. It..." 

The clearing fell quiet except for his muffled attempt at controlled breathing. Thunder rolled overhead. 

Chapter Text

Someone had entered his space. 

Viktor froze up, every bone in his body going cold. "-oing to kill me for falling asleep at the office, fuck." That voice. He'd just heard it, but this one was deeper. Much more comforting to hear. He relaxed a little, but not all the way, considering he absolutely hadn't meant to drag this one here. He pushed himself up, tears still running down his face. He wasn't sure how miserable he looked, but the older Jayce emerged from the treeline on the other side of the pond and his eyes widened. "Oh, h-hey. Oh my god, are you alright?" Jayce didn't seemed to know what to do for a moment, taking a step forward before instantly moving back again. "Can I, uh, Can I come over to you?" 

Viktor paused and glanced up at him before giving a small nod. He blinked in surprise as Jayce winced, clearly moving faster than he was supposed to with his leg as he moved around the side of the pond. He flinched as he lowered himself down into a kneeling position. "Hey. What happened??" He asked worriedly, holding his hand out. His palm was turned upwards, his hand offering instead of being poised to grab like the younger Jayce. Viktor hesitated before reaching out and holding his hand, Jayce's fingers wrapping around his. He rubbed his thumb over his knuckle worriedly. Viktor didn't think he had the energy to speak right then, but it didn't seem like Jayce expected him to. "Alright, uh..." Viktor jumped as Jayce pulled his hand back. 

He suddenly began to wiggle out of his hoodie, it having the fire station's symbol on it. "Here." He offered it, holding it up so Viktor could just slip into it in. Viktor stared at him before carefully pushing his arms into the sleeves and letting Jayce drape it over his shoulder. Jayce zipped it up for him, making sure Viktor could see his hands. "Hood up or down?" He asked gently. Viktor hesitated before gesturing that he would keep it down. Jayce nodded, pulling his hands back. "...I'd like to think I'd be a little more prepared if I ever found you like this in real life." Jayce sounded disappointed in himself, his shoulders sunken. He put his head in his hand. "I hope I never find you like this." He whispered. 

Viktor turned his head away, his shoulders sunken. "I, uh... Maybe I can get you to laugh...?" Jayce murmured to himself. He furrowed his brow and Viktor jumped as there was a loud meow. Jayce rolled his eyes before raising his hand to his head in a salute. "General." 

General? Viktor turned to look at the scraggly grey cat that appeared. It was clearly a very old cat. It was missing an eye and part of its ear. Its tail was bent. Viktor tipped his head. He still didn't want to speak yet. "Viktor, this is General Sterling Silver, the fire station cat. You have to call him General first or he won't let you pet him." Jayce reached out, scratching the cat's ears. It let out a raspy purr. "He is 21 years old and still fights the cats out in the alley like he's young. Right, Sterling?" Jayce spoke to the cat calmly. 

Sterling turned and his tail lowered as he saw Viktor, creeping forward and sniffing at him. Viktor paused before raising his hand to his head in a half-hearted salute. He held his other hand out and Sterling seemed slightly displeased by his lack of proper address, as evident by his flicking tail. He still moved forward and shoved his head in Viktor's hand. Viktor lowered his other hand as he scratched Sterling's chin. "Maybe I can take you to the station when you get back. Let you meet him for real." Jayce murmured. Viktor glanced up at him. Jayce seemed to be considering it before frowning. "...Will he make the trip? I don't want him hurting his leg." Viktor's chest warmed and he curled his free hand into the front of Jayce's hoodie. 

This really was a problem. He really didn't know now. He'd always been sure that he would Frost to stay with Heimerdinger, but he... This felt like it was something good. It was something nice. Viktor looked Jayce over as Sterling went pattering back over to him with a demanding meow. "Yes, of course, sir." Jayce said formally, scratching Sterling's belly as the cat rolled over, stretching. A smile pulled at Viktor's lips. 

He finally gathered himself and gave a shaky sigh. "General." He spoke softly and Sterling's ears popped up. The cat instantly got up and came over to him. Viktor smiled and scratched his chin, that raspy purr erupting from the old cat. Jayce smiled. 

"Hey." He spoke gently and Viktor glanced up at him. 

"Hello."

"Feeling better?" 

"A little, I suppose." Viktor shuffled quietly. "You were quite eager to dress me up in your things." It was a tease, but Jayce's face seemed to go hot and he glanced aside. 

"No, no, I was... I was worried you were cold. I don't know if this counts as you being... naked." Jayce gestured to his white, silhouetted body awkwardly. "Not that I... Not that I think about that." 

"...You are thinking about it now." Viktor said calmly, focused on petting Sterling, the old cat having settled into a loaf. Jayce instantly gave an awkward cough. 

"I'm eight years older than him. I can't be thinking about stuff like this." Jayce muttered, burying his head against his hand. 

"I do not think he would have approached you in that pond to have a conversation if he cared about that." Viktor prompted, glancing up at him. "He did not stop the conversation when you told him." 

Jayce was quiet for a moment before glancing to the side. "No, I... I guess he didn't." He paused, suddenly seeming like he was being shaken. "Oh!" In an instant, both him and General Sterling Silver were gone. The hoodie had vanished as well. Someone must've woken him.

Viktor pulled himself from his space and woke up in his apartment. The moon shone through the windows and he stared at the beams quietly. That hoodie had been so warm. When he went back, he wondered if he could ask Jayce for it again. 

Viktor had never done this before, but he did need a second opinion. He stopped in front of the door and knocked quietly. "Enter." The voice sounded unamused and annoyed. Viktor pushed open the door to Salo's office and the other's eyes widened as he stood up from his desk. There was an escort sitting on the desk, seeming surprised. "Leave us please, darling." Salo told the escort gently. She nodded, kissing his cheek and moving past Viktor before disappearing out the door. "Viktor! What brings you all the way to the Council Hall in the middle of the day? And to my office, of all things?"

"I needed an outside opinion." Viktor replied quietly. 

"Oh, well, I'm quite good at those." Salo responded matter-of-factly. Viktor rolled his eyes. 

"I apologize for my harsh words yesterday. I have been under a new stress that is not even that troublesome student." Viktor said, moving past him to sit down in a plush armchair off to the side of the room. Salo followed, his brow furrowed as he sat in the one opposite to it. 

"Mel was asking about you. She was worried about your state following that trial." Salo said, looking him over. Viktor had never had a direct conversation with Mel, as per Heimerdinger's orders. Viktor knew Mel in the other world and he was forbidden to speak to her in this one so he would not upset the alleged 'balance'. She did send him notes and messages through Salo, who seemed more than content with being the messenger of it meant a better rapport with one of the wealthiest Council members. 

"Ah, I hope I did not worry her. That student is... not of my top worries." Viktor leaned back in his chair, placing his cane across his lap. "...I fear my decision has wavered." Salo stopped, staring at him. 

"Wavered?? How could that be? Viktor, you would live a comfortable life here once you Frost! You'd have everything you need and more. I do recall you mentioning that you live in a tent in your other world. A tent, of all things!" Salo sounded absolutely baffled. Viktor stared at him before his gaze drifted away. He was almost embarrassed at how fast Salo picked up on the motion. "Oh." There was a moment of silence. "Oh! Viktor, you've come to fancy someone?" Salo asked, his eyes wide. 

"Do not say it like that." Viktor stated flatly, shooting the older man a sharp look. "And... yes, I am afraid I have. I do not picture a life with him yet, but I would like to know him. I'm just... out of time in order to do so. I am wondering if a possibility would be worth risking the rest of my life for. My life there is not terrible." Viktor admitted quietly. "The people in that community are kind and they rallied for me when my incident occurred." 

"You said they killed the man." Salo seemed to recall. He sounded more than satisfied about it. He seemed to be thinking as he tapped his fingers against the couch. "If you Frosted here, you would be set for the rest of your life, Viktor. No need to wonder when your next meal is or if you'll be able to bathe. No... tents." Salo wrinkled his nose as he turned away. "Though, I suppose, as a romantic myself- stop making that face." Salo's voice became curt and Viktor jumped, his disbelieving and exasperated look quickly disappearing. The other man wasn't even looking at him. That surprised a laugh out of him and Salo's lips quirked a little. "I can understand your plight. You would live a comfortable life here, but perhaps not a happy one. Comfortable, but perhaps... lonely." He turned to look at him. "And you don't want that." 

"Of course not." Viktor replied quietly. His hands were tight on his cane. 

"Hm. I always prefer comfort above all else, but I see why you may not want that if there is a chance at lifelong companionship." Salo leaned his head against his hand. "Do you believe you could live a comfortable life with this person or just a happy one?" Viktor paused. From what he knew, Jayce had an apartment, liked sweetened iced tea, and his hoodie had fit Viktor two sizes too big. Honestly, it was... it was enough for him. Viktor glanced up before giving a small nod. Salo's gaze softened. "Perhaps it would be in your best interest to Frost to them. If you think the chance is worth it." Did he? Viktor furrowed his brow.

The way that Jayce looked at him. The way he spoke to him and always prioritized Viktor's comfort. It made him feel warm. "Would you be able to ask Councilor Merdarda what she thinks? I know she was willing to fund my comforts." Viktor did feel a bit guilty about that, but if he did Frost to the other world, she could put that money to use for something else. He was torn between dreams of glory or a soft wish of domesticity. If he stayed, he would have resources and funds to create something great. Even if he didn't know what it was yet. But in the other world, he would not have to leave Singed by himself and maybe he could... That Jayce's smile was painted in his head like a picture. 

"I will ask Mel what she thinks." Salo affirmed, glancing over at him. "Are you sure you would want to risk Frosting to the wrong side for this person? You know you will not be able to return here." He sounded troubled as he watched him. Viktor paused before nodding. "Have you discussed this with the Professor yet?" The question was hesitant, like Salo knew Heimerdinger would be the most distraught over Viktor's sudden decision. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane again and Salo sighed. "Perhaps that is something to attend to." He tapped the arm of his chair with his fingers. One finger at a time, tapping one after the other. "And soon."  

Chapter Text

They could get in a lot of trouble for this, but Mel's letter had been insistent. Viktor had to admit, Mel Merdarda was a meticulous planner. The coach that picked him up looked to be nothing more than a regular Piltovian transport, with no House symbols or distinctive markings. The restaurant that it dropped him off at seemed to be far more casual than he was used to attending and he saw her the moment he made his way inside. She was sitting out at a patio table with another woman, both of them dressed much more relaxed than Viktor had ever seen. Mel even wore her braids down for once. He recognized the other woman as her assistant, Elora, who was wearing her hair curled instead of pinned up neatly. It looked like Mel had covered her gold tattoos with makeup. Elora seemed to notice him and she lit up, nudging Mel. 

Mel turned to him and smiled, quickly getting up. They'd only ever seen each other in the Council Room and Viktor was kept far from her and certainly forbidden from speaking to her. She made her way over and stretched out her hands in invitation. Viktor smiled in response, taking her hands and dipping his head. "It is nice to meet you directly after all this time, Miss Merdarda." He said politely. 

"It certainly is nice to meet you too. I can only handle Salo every so often." Mel said, chuckling. "Come." She turned and guided him back to the table. "No one here will say a word, I've offered ample pay for them not to and to ensure the restaurant remains empty for us." She assured him. Viktor scoffed, wondering what it was like to have such wealth. He didn't even know if he would want to. As they sat, Mel sighed. "Salo told me you might not end up Frosting here." Her voice was gentle and Viktor was slightly surprised at how fast she got to the point. "And that it is over a possible romance. He did, however, elaborate that you have just met this person." She sat straight in her chair, her hands in her lap. "Do you really feel such a connection that you would cement yourself for a chance?" 

Viktor paused and his fingers clasped each other quietly. He glanced to the side. From what he could tell from their conversations, that Jayce was interested in him. He just felt guilty about it. And Viktor understood. One of the rules at the volunteer organization was to not take advantage of the people they were feeding and tending to. Even though it wasn't spoken, it was clear the undertone of the rule was to not let the homeless take advantage of them. Viktor knew they typically meant any kind of fooling around, but a relationship, of all things, would certainly be frowned on as well. He sighed quietly. "It is not just that. There is a man I live with when I am there. He is without a home as well. If I were to Frost away, he would have no one. He's raised me since I was a young boy, alongside Heimerdinger. He always insists that he would be alright if I left, but... I..." Viktor's shoulders sank. "I think he may be a liar." 

"A family member?" Mel asked, tipping her head. 

"Of sorts." Viktor replied, giving a quiet scoff. "I owe him quite a bit." When Singed had done his surgery, he'd taken away the things that that man had cooed over while he... Viktor's hands tightened. Singed had taken away those features and Viktor had been left feeling like his body was just a little bit more... his own. It had sent him to tears with how relieved it had made him. Mel shared a glance with Elora before her gaze moved back to Viktor. 

"A family member and a possible love is enough to sway you from grandeur?" It didn't sound mocking or disbelieving. Viktor hesitated. "It would be enough for me." The statement made Viktor glance up at her with wide eyes. "May I let you in on a secret of mine, Viktor?" She leaned forward and Viktor blinked.

"Of course, Miss Merdarda." He responded, leaning in as well.

"My brother was an Intersect." Mel's statement was less surprising to him than it was absolutely devastating and he stared at her, the dismay clear on his face. She seemed to take note of that and closed her eyes, letting out a shaky sigh. "...I knew it." Elora quickly reached out to comfort her. "No, I told you. I knew it had happened. I told you that I felt it in my heart." Mel told Elora weakly. Viktor leaned back, his shoulders sunken. "He Frosted to another world. Your other world, from the sounds of it... but I imagine you already knew this." 

"I am very sorry, Miss Merdarda." Viktor could only give his condolences in the softest voice he could muster. "It is your organization that feeds and tends to my community. That other you does much good around the city, out of remembrance. Your whole cause is dedicated to him." Viktor told her gently. Mel managed a weak smile at that, closing her eyes. She finally seemed to decide on changing the subject.

"This special person of yours. Are they a volunteer?" She asked quietly. Viktor paused and his face went a little hot as he nodded. "I imagine that might be a little scandalous."

"It all depends on the narrative they make of it. Was it him who drew in a desperate, young, and poor homeless man to take advantage of? Or was it a homeless man that seduced this good-hearted civilian into taking him in so he could have a roof over his head? Either one is terrible." Viktor shook his head quietly. "He is quite a kind man, Miss Merdarda. I believe he is interested in me as well, but it's those circumstances that make us both wary. I am... uncertain in my pursuit. If I should attempt one at all." 

"You have time. Not much, but enough to find out what kind of person he is beyond his kindness. Do you think finding out who he really is would steady your decision?" She asked politely. Viktor nodded immediately.

"I am supposed to be able to envision a future with him, correct? I have to be able to see myself staying with him." Viktor recalled what people said about relationships like that. Mel nodded approvingly. Elora seemed like she wanted to say something and Mel giggled. She gestured for Elora to speak. 

"Could you see him supporting you? Forgive my probing, but you are without any kind of housing. If he were to take you in, would you be able to support each other?" Elora asked worriedly, looking over him. "And would he be able to... tend to you?" She gestured to his cane. 

"Ah, he is crippled as well. Leg. It is the calf instead of the knee, but I do not doubt he has some kind of accommodations." Viktor assured her. "Once I appear proper instead of... quite obviously homeless, I do not have doubt in my ability to employ myself." Viktor sighed quietly. "He was crippled saving others from a burning building. He does it as a job, similar to how Enforcers might. I feel I can trust a man who would walk into fire to save others." 

"I believe I might as well! It takes a selfless person to do such a thing. And to be injured for it." Mel sounded approving. "Viktor, this sounds quite possible for you. I think you should pursue it. See where it takes you in the time you have left before your decision. I think I would support you Frosting to a place where you can live a comfortable life. Maybe not luxurious by any means, but I have a feeling that's not what you’re looking for." Viktor's chest loosened a little at her clear approval. He paused and shook his head. 

"I appreciate it, Miss Merdarda, Miss Elora." He glanced to the side. "...This does not affect my decision, but it is... quite coincidental." Mel paused and leaned in a little. "This man is that student's counterpart. Jayce Talis." Mel and Elora's mouths both dropped open a little and Viktor managed a weak laugh. "I assure you his other self is much different. I just... found it so odd to meet both of them at the same time." 

"Good gods, Viktor, he must've frightened you at that trial if you only knew the kinder side of him." Mel said, taken back. Viktor nodded, giving a small shrug. The younger Jayce had scared him far more than just the trial, but he wouldn't hold it against him. He was just too energetic. Too eager and too brash. A smile pulled at his lips. 

"We both know Councilor Salo, Miss Merdarda. I can handle someone who gets far too ahead of himself." Viktor's joke made both women burst out in laughter and he relaxed a little. Perhaps not all the elites were so bad. 

Chapter Text

When Viktor reappeared, it was raining. Thunder rolled ahead. Viktor had requested that Heimerdinger update him on the captivity of the younger Jayce as soon as he switched back. He had appeared by the pond again, dressed in the sweater and black pants. They always made sure he switched back in two designated places: the pond and Heimerdinger's lab. "Viktor." Singed's voice was calm and Viktor turned to him, taking his cane with a thankful nod. "Perhaps you have something for me?" 

"Perhaps." Viktor replied with a smile. "We should probably return to our tents first." Singed nodded, turning and leading Viktor away from the pond. "Have you made any progress with Rio?" 

"I do not doubt she is waiting outside my tent as we speak." Singed said, a bit of triumph in his voice. He turned to look back at him, raising a brow. "Viktor, it seems one of the volunteers has taken an interest in you." Viktor paused and his face went a little hot.

"They will be getting themselves in quite a bit of trouble if they decide to pursue me in any way." Viktor answered carefully, not wanting to give away that he knew exactly who it was, considering that Singed had never seen him and Jayce talk together. "I would hope the organization warned them of that." He scoffed. "And how is that so? I have been gone a week." 

"I have been pestered about your whereabouts for a week." Singed responded flatly, glancing back at him. Viktor paused, wondering if Jayce had really been bothering Singed that much. "That firefighter you always stare at came asking for you." 

"I am not the only one who stares at him." Viktor instantly answered, his face hot. Singed gave a quiet chuckle. 

"Of course not. But he has been insistent. I do not doubt he may also be at the tents, waiting for us." Singed added, looking back at him with his clear eye. Viktor paused, both his hair and the sweater already soaked. 

"It is barely noon." He argued, his eyes wide. "And a Tuesday, at that! The volunteers are not supposed to come on Tuesday or Thursday." Singed sighed dramatically, nodding. "There is no way he is-" Viktor stopped as they emerged from the trees. Jayce was standing in front of their tents, holding part of his raincoat out. Rio was shivering beneath it, seeming to be begrudgingly accepting the shelter. "...You are kidding. Why would...?" Viktor glanced over at Singed with wide eyes. The old man gestured forward and Viktor sighed. He turned towards Jayce again, taking his stiff steps forward. "Volunteers do not typically come on Tuesday." He spoke loudly, making Jayce jump and look up at him. 

"Viktor!" He exclaimed, seeming far too excited to see him for someone he'd only had one real conversation with. Viktor raised a brow at him and Jayce paused. He could see him process in real time that the conversations he'd had with Viktor in his space were just his dreams and this was only the second time he was speaking to Viktor. "H-Hey." 

"Hello, Jayce. What are you doing out here?? In the rain, of all things!" Viktor watched as Singed lifted the flap to his standing tent and Rio ran inside with a loud meow. He glanced between them with a raised brow before slipping into the tent as well. He left the flaps open in case they needed anything. 

"I gave your dad raincoats, I don't know why he isn't using them." Jayce stated, shooting a look over at the tent. "Aren't you cold?" He directed the question to Viktor, who gave a small shrug. 

"Not anything I cannot handle." He answered. "Now, you still have yet to answer my question." He flicked Jayce's shoulder gently. "What are you doing out here??" 

"O-Oh, I wanted to make sure you were here. Your father said you were staying with someone else the past week." Jayce averted his eyes and Viktor blinked. 

"Did you think I would get lost? What was your purpose?" Viktor asked flatly. Jayce stared at him before shaking his head. "As you can see, I am completely fine. Your endeavor was not worth standing out in the rain for and especially not walking an hour and a half through the encampment from your vehicle for." Viktor's voice was scolding and Jayce only seemed to become more embarrassed. 

"I, uh, I actually wanted to, uh, see if you wanted to... go somewhere to eat with me." Jayce stumbled over his words and Viktor stared at him for a moment. 

"...Pardon?" He asked, his eyes wide. He hadn't thought Jayce would jump right to taking him on a trip out of the encampment. 

"J-Just a café. Nothing... Nothing terrifyingly formal." Jayce said, glancing aside. "And I'll pay for everything, I don't mind it."

"Jayce." Viktor stared at him. He was a little delighted, but he couldn't let on that he knew more than he did. "What is the goal here?? It's unprofessional and irresponsible to try and bed me. You know the news will misconstrue this in neither of our favors." Jayce's eyes widened. 

"Oh, no, no, I'm not trying to sleep with you! I'm not! I wouldn't dare try to... try to weasel my way into something like that. I just wanted to... talk a little more. Maybe while you get something good to eat instead of the approved pastas and vegetables." Jayce suggested awkwardly. Viktor furrowed his brow.

"You are asking to take out someone you have spoken to... once." Viktor stated flatly. Jayce seemed to become guilty as he glanced aside. "Someone homeless, at that. A vagrant, of all things." His hands clasped on top of his cane. "I think you should consider those more... in your playing field. I am hardly worth your time." 

"I'm asking to give it to you anyway." Jayce replied, glancing at him. Viktor paused. He furrowed his brow before holding up a hand. Jayce nodded, watching as Viktor turned and made his way towards Singed's tent. He ducked inside and shook his hair out. Singed was sitting on a small chair he'd built, reading a book he'd salvaged. He glanced up as Viktor pulled the letter from where he had it tucked in his waistband to keep dry. He held it out to him, Singed taking it with a muted eagerness. It had Heimerdinger's seal on it. He gestured for Viktor to sit on the cot next to him and Viktor chuckled.

"I would love to poke fun at Heimerdinger's words with you, but it seems I am being invited outside the encampment." He told him. 

"Truly? That man does understand what kind of trouble this could get both of you into, doesn't he?" Singed placed the letter in his book as a makeshift bookmark. He placed it aside. "I doubt you're saying no to him." 

"I think he is going to treat me to a pastry." Viktor sounded ever so slightly excited by that and Singed paused before chuckling. Viktor loved pastries. Donuts, coffee rolls, croissants, anything of the like. "I can bring you back something as well." 

"If you could, I would love that... that, uh... the fruit one... the one filled with, uh..." Singed furrowed his brow, waving his hand back and forth as he tried to put it together, Viktor watching him in quiet amusement before asking if he meant a jelly-filled donut. "Yes! That one. Bring me that one, if you would." Viktor chuckled and nodded. He glanced around, scanning over the small area. "Ah, she's right here." Singed lifted a leg and Viktor blinked in surprise at Rio's face looking at him from under the legs of the chair. "Has yet to claw my ankles, so we're making quite good progress, I'd say."

Viktor laughed. "Of course, of course." He glanced around again. He didn't have shoes, but he did spot the raincoat. "He seemed quite cross neither of us were wearing these." He placed his cane down in order to slip one of them on. Singed waved his hand dismissively. 

"Does he think we were born yesterday? We've survived far worse storms without them." Singed said, picking up his book again. Viktor laughed. He pulled the hood up and took his cane. "Do not forget my donut, boy." Viktor rolled his eyes. "Have fun." He smiled and thanked him before turning and ducking out of the tent. Jayce turned to him and he looked downright relieved to see Viktor in the raincoat. 

"So, you're...?" Jayce seemed nervous and Viktor watched him with a soft scoff. 

"He requires payment in the form of a jelly donut. To quell his anxieties about my leaving the encampment." Viktor stated matter-of-factly as he came up next to him. Jayce seemed surprised before giving a quiet laugh. 

"Sure thing, that can be arranged." He replied, grinning. Viktor nodded and began to walk alongside him. The most awkward parts of the walk were thanks to people coming out of their tents to make sure Viktor wasn't being taken anywhere he didn't want to be. None of the Zaunites were subtle about it either. They would instantly throw open their tent flaps and come scrambling over to him. He had to assure them each time it was okay. Several children would gather around his legs and Viktor would have to tell them that he was fine and he knew where he was going. Every time they were stopped only seemed to upset Jayce more, but not from the fact that Viktor's neighbors didn't trust him. A small girl with blue hair seemed distressed as he tried to talk her off of his leg. Another girl, a teen with pink hair, came up, making the children scatter. 

She glanced over at Jayce distrustfully before looking back up at Viktor with a raised brow. They'd never spoken with each other, but undoubtedly, this girl was one of the few that had escaped being arrested after beating that man to death. Viktor had seen the blood on her hands. The younger sister clung to the older one. "...I believe myself to be safe with him." Viktor assured the pink-haired teen. She had bandages around her knuckles. "He has made no attempt to touch me. He has asked permission for nearly every move he makes. He is not like..." Viktor stumbled over his words for a second. Not like him. "...that." The teen seemed to relent, but her guarded look was obvious. 

Viktor knew why. He'd trusted a volunteer like this before. Allowed himself to grow close. Allowed his walls down. And he'd suffered dearly for it. He gave a weak smile before moving after Jayce. He paused at a flash of pink. The teen and her sister were following. Viktor was certain that they wouldn't leave until they were sure he'd be safe. "Uh... hello. I'm Jayce Talis. I'm a firefighter." Jayce tried to speak to the kids uncertainly as they walked. The pink-haired teen wouldn't even spare him a look, but the blue-haired girl looked up at him with wide eyes. 

"D'ya see a lot of fires?" She asked, tipping her head. Jayce nodded.

"Lot of fires, yeah. Especially around holidays because no one in this city apparently knows how to properly set off a firework." He joked. Viktor's eyes widened, but he didn't have time to interject.

"I do!" The child protested, squeaking as her sister instantly shushed her. Jayce paused and Viktor glanced over. This little girl made her own fireworks. She was notorious for her sparklers and smoke bombs. Jayce furrowed his brow. She was far too young to even be near fireworks, not to mention she was a vagrant. He sighed.

"...I'll pretend I didn't hear that." He said, looking forward again. The pink-haired teen relaxed a little and Viktor sighed. When the road finally came into view, there was a copper-colored Jeep Wrangler sitting on the side of it. Viktor blinked in surprise. Since he and Singed lived so far, he almost never saw cars. It wasn't like the other world had them either. He scrunched up his shoulders a little as he heard the highways above. He glanced up, peering through the rain at the elevated roads far above them. Horns blaring, tires rumbling, cars rushing. Viktor didn't like it at all. "Hey." Jayce's voice made him jump and he glanced up, seeing that the older man had moved in front of him. "Sorry, I didn't realize this place might scare you." 

"I... have not been this far from my place in the encampment in years." Viktor admitted, startling and flinching a little as another horn blared above distantly. He bumped into Jayce, the older man gently placing a hand on his back for a moment to steady him. Viktor felt a little embarrassed. He was a scientist, why was he afraid of a bunch of cars?? He even knew how they worked, they weren't complicated. He glanced back down at the two girls. "I will be okay. Thank you both for escorting us." He told them. The blue-haired child nodded, but the teen was much more hesitant, glancing over at Jayce.

"I, uh, I'll bring him right back. P-Promise." Jayce said quickly, holding his hands up in surrender. The teen finally sighed through her nose before taking her sister's hand and turning away, leading her back towards  the tent city of Zaun. Viktor sighed. He jumped as he heard the Jeep unlock and the door open. Jayce was rustling around inside of it before pulling out a box. "Here. None of the places will let you in without shoes." Viktor stopped after a moment. 

"You bought me shoes?" He asked, completely dumbfounded. Jayce stared at him through the rain, blinking a couple times. He held up a smaller bag. 

"...And socks too, yeah." Jayce clearly didn't see a problem with it and Viktor stared at him. "What's wrong?" 

"Nothing, I..." Viktor trailed off, unsure if he could even word it. "What did... you... get?" 

Chapter Text

"...Jayce, I cannot possibly take these." Viktor said after a moment of stunned silence. They were both sitting in the Jeep, Viktor holding up one of the sneakers from the box in his hand. Jayce glanced over at him in confusion. Viktor stared back. "These are... these are orthopedic shoes. These are expensive. You should really return thes-"

"I got them for your knee. I didn't want to just get you a random pair of shoes that would make the pain worse." Jayce replied, raising a brow at him. Viktor was sitting in the passengers seat. "Your dad said you had a bad knee since you were little." His hands tightened on the shoe again. They were simple black sneakers, but designs looked like they'd been drawn on the heel and toe in metallic fabric marker. He held them up and peered at them. "I, uh, doubt I could return them too, considering I did a bit of decorating." It was all swirls and patterns. Viktor was stunned silent. 

"You drew all these things?" He asked in quiet awe. Jayce nodded, seeming flustered by his amazement. Viktor could only stare. So both of the Jayces were artists in their own regards. "Did Singed tell you my shoe size?" Jayce nodded again, his eyes averting. Just how much had Jayce asked about him?? Viktor wasn't a fan of sneakers in the slightest. He preferred being barefoot or the dignity of a dress shoe. But Jayce had specifically purchased and customized these for him. He'd drawn gears and trees and stars. Viktor finally allowed himself a weak laugh. "Thank you, Jayce. This was very thoughtful." Apparently, Jayce had been tense, if the way he instantly melted with the smile that erupted across his face was any indication. He looked like he'd been worried sick that Viktor wouldn't like them. 

Viktor did feel strange wearing sneakers, but he had both them and the socks on after another few moments. Jayce had given him a towel to wipe his feet down with before getting into the car, it now being placed below, like a mat. He jumped as Jayce started the Jeep, pressing himself back against the seat as the windshield wipers slid to life. He wouldn't take his eyes off of them as he felt around for the seatbelt and pulled it over himself. The whole Jeep was giving a slight tremble from the engine and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "Hey, are you okay?" Jayce instantly spoke, his voice worried. 

"M-My apologies, I... This is my second time in a vehicle. The first was the... the ambulance." Viktor managed quietly. "And I do not remember much from it." Jayce's shoulders were sunken when Viktor opened his eyes again. 

"We can walk, if you want." Jayce offered. "I'd have to put on my ankle brace, but I can-" 

"No. No, I will be alright." Viktor said, giving a smile. "Please, both of us with our respective leg issues shouldn't be walking around a city in the rain." Jayce watched him before his eyes softened and he nodded. Viktor could hear music coming faintly from somewhere in the car. Soft guitar strums and mumbled words that he couldn't quite make out. His heart was pounding as Jayce started the car and began to drive. Viktor could barely focus, hyperaware of every little movement the car made. He didn't understand why it set him off so much, considering horses were much more unpredictable, but horse carriages didn't have this ever-present rumbling. His chest was tight and there was a flash of movement. Viktor flinched before glancing down. 

"Here." Jayce had offered his hand to him and Viktor hesitated. He wasn't a child, he didn't need to be soothed like this. His brow furrowed into a slight glare. "I, uh, don't have anything else to offer you in terms of having something to hold onto. You're nervous and I figured it would... be better to hold onto someone else. It makes me feel better." Jayce admitted. Viktor paused and his eyes softened before he reached out. He slid one hand under Jayce's and the other one over. He gave a quiet scoff as he pressed his hand against Jayce's palm, studying the difference. He glanced up at Jayce and, based on the other's amused grin, he could tell he wanted to say something cheeky, but he wouldn't. 

Viktor felt a little more relaxed now. His grip on Jayce's hand tightened once they made it onto the streets holding other cars. Viktor kept his head down, feeling like everyone in every other car was staring at him. His chest shook a little. He'd never been this far into the city. Not that he remembered. The ambulance had taken him to a hospital, but he'd been nearly unconscious the whole way there. While the majority of his injury from that day had been taken care of and tended to in the other world, one jostling movement from the strenuous life here had reopened wounds inside him that Singed could not reach and they'd had to get the volunteer organization to call him an ambulance. The CEO, Mel Merdarda, had paid for his trip and his needed surgery. She had said it was the least she could do, for the horrifying thing someone had done under the name of her organization. Viktor hadn't seen her ever since then. 

"Viktor." Even with how gentle Jayce said his name, Viktor inhaled so sharply in shock that he started to cough weakly, turning his head aside. "Sorry! Sorry." Jayce apologized quickly. "We're here." Viktor paused and glanced up. He hadn't even realized they'd stopped moving. They were in a parking lot, away from the busy street. Viktor hadn't even realized he was trying to control his breathing through his mouth. "Hey..." Jayce's voice got his attention and he turned to look at him again. Jayce watched him worriedly, having taken his keys out and turned the car off. Viktor could only hear that soft music and the pattering of rain against the car windshield. "...Maybe we should have walked..." Jayce sounded disappointed in himself. 

"N-No... no, no, I..." Viktor had to force the words out and he inhaled shakily, realizing 'I' and 'no' were definitely the only two things he could get himself to say right then. "No, I... N-No." He swallowed heavily.  Jayce gently wiggled his fingers to remind Viktor that his hand was there and Viktor turned to him, pulling his hand up against his chest. He knew Jayce would be able to feel how hard his heart was racing. What was he panicking for?? He was a scientist! The Dean's Assistant at the Piltover Academy of Science, watching young inventors create things that this world could never dream of! He couldn't be afraid of cars! Viktor let out a heavy noise of frustration and jumped as he saw Jayce's other hand stretch out to him. He stared at it warily. 

Weren't they taking too long?? He straightened up a little in shock, glancing towards the front of the café in confusion. "We don't have to go in yet, it's okay." Jayce assured him quickly. "Everything will still be in there when we do." Viktor felt Jayce's hand gently tap against his chest. Those golden eyes hadn't left him once. Viktor trembled as his own eyes averted. He raised his hand and rubbed his forehead, clearly and visibly embarrassed. Why was he acting like this?? He wasn't afraid of cars. He wasn't. He finally released Jayce's hand and pushed it away, dragging his good knee up to himself and holding it. What was he doing?? He squeezed his eyes shut. He was a scientist. He was a full-grown adult from the undercity of Zaun. He'd seen people with prosthetics, body modifications, and weapons that would make the people here scream in terror. 

By the time he finally got a hold of himself again, Viktor felt sick. He leaned back against the seat, shaking just a little. "M-My apologies. I do not know what's wrong with me." Viktor managed quietly, looking over at Jayce with his hand on his forehead. He was sure he looked miserable. 

"Do you need some air?" Jayce asked, his voice quiet with worry. Viktor nodded. "Unbuckle your seatbelt." He opened his door and got out, shutting it behind him. Viktor managed to undo the seatbelt before flinching as his door was opened. Fresher, cooler air crept in and he turned to face it. Jayce didn't make any further movements than to grunt and lower himself down so he was sitting on the curb next to the open door. Viktor stared down at him, jumping as he heard the rest of the car lock. Jayce smiled up at him. It wasn't raining as hard anymore, it only being a slight mist now. "We can wait like this. I don't mind." 

Viktor gave a quiet sigh. "I am being childish. Being in a vehicle should not scare me this much. I-I have seen much worse. I have been through worse." He stated firmly, clearly frustrated with himself as he threw his hands to the side. "I can't even remember half the trip here." He buried his face in his hands. "What a stupid thing to be terrified over." His voice was muffled. 

"I, uh, I'm scared of snowfall." Jayce's voice was hesitant as he spoke. Viktor hesitantly lowered his hands to look at him. Jayce seemed embarrassed. "It's so bad that everyone knows I'm not coming in if it's snowing outside..." Jayce's shoulders were sunken. "Once the snow stops falling, I'm fine. I can tolerate walking through it and I'm fine driving or shoveling it. It's just when it's falling from the sky. And when it's so bad that I can't see anything... I, uh, I got the cops called on me a few times for wellness checks when I first moved here because of that." Jayce admitted. Viktor's eyes had softened on him. Jayce laughed a little, glancing up at him. "You're a stronger man than me, Viktor, if you're sitting inside a car while being afraid of it. I can't... I can't even handle looking at snowfall." 

"A stronger man than you, Jayce Talis the Firefighter?" Viktor replied with a weak smile. A stronger man? He'd never been called either of those words together before. "The man who willingly walks into fire to save the lives of innocents?" Jayce paused and his ears tinted a different shade as he looked away, giving a small shrug. "Please. Modesty with a face like yours is quite fatal." Viktor teased lightly, gently nudging his foot to Jayce's shoulder and making him laugh. Viktor sighed before closing his eyes. 

"How are we feeling?" Jayce asked gently. Viktor shook his head. "Nauseous?" Viktor nodded. "Alright, I have medicine in the glove compartment. I'll run inside and get you some water." Jayce inhaled sharply as he pushed himself to his feet. He guided Viktor to sit forward again, shutting the door so Viktor would be safe inside the car. He moved around the front and gave a thumbs-up with a raised brow. Viktor nodded quietly, his weak smile seeming to spur Jayce's larger one. 

Viktor reached out and opened the glove compartment. He flinched at the sound of several small things rolling around and he was frozen at the sight of eleven, half-full prescription pill bottles rolling around inside. Singed had been a doctor of some regard. Viktor could recognize the names of medications far more than the average person did. He furrowed his brow as one of the bottles brushed his knuckles, with a label for a common antipsychotic staring him in the face. 

Chapter Text

Four types of antidepressants.

Four types of antipsychotics.

Three types of mood stabilizers.

He couldn't even tell which ones Jayce was actually taking. He'd found the nausea pills, shutting the glove compartment with eerily still fingers. He held the box in his lap, his brow furrowed. These had all clearly been prescribed, but he would have to look through the dates to figure out what combination Jayce was actually on. This must've been why he seemed so calm compared to his counterpart. Would the other Jayce grow up needing these? What was this Jayce really like? His shoulders were slightly sunken. Was the Jayce he knew here a medically-charged cocktail? His decision had wavered again. He didn't know if he wanted to Frost here without seeing how bad Jayce was if he didn't have these. He knew that wasn't a possibility, nor was that something he would ever ask of him. 

Would he ignore his boundaries like the other Jayce? Would he do something worse?? Viktor startled as the car was heard unlocking and he flinched, burying his face against his shoulder as the door opened. He dropped the nausea pills, Jayce heard letting out a quiet exclamation of shock. "Hey, maybe you should... get out of the car for a little bit?" He suggested worriedly. Viktor glanced over at him and inhaled shakily as Jayce stretched out his hand. Jayce instantly froze up and pulled his hand back, holding both behind himself. He was holding a water bottle. Viktor exhaled shakily. 

"Y-Yes, maybe I should." He agreed weakly. Jayce kept his hands behind himself.

"Can I help you?" He asked, looking him over in concern. Viktor almost considered saying no, but his first shaky press to the raised step beneath his foot made him rethink. He nodded and Jayce reached up, offering his hand for Viktor to lean most of his weight on. The warmth of his hand felt odd now. No longer comforting. When Viktor finally settled on the ground, he did admit that the shoes felt very nice. He liked them very much actually. It was a good distraction. He took his cane as Jayce handed it to him and he leaned on it once he'd moved out of the way so Jayce could shut the door after tossing the water bottle inside. Viktor stared out past the parking lot towards the roads and buildings. His shoulders were already scrunching up. He didn't know where they were. 

The worlds shared many similarities, but the ideas that both Piltovers would be a 1:1 ratio of each other was laughable. Especially with how big this version of the city was. Viktor was trembling, his hands tight on his cane. "Viktor?" He jumped so hard that he nearly fell over. He turned to Jayce with wide eyes and paused at how guilty Jayce looked. "I'm sorry." Viktor blinked and furrowed his brow. "I shouldn't have brought you all the way out here. Maybe I should've just brought you something there so you wouldn't have to... you wouldn't have to leave the encampment." Jayce buried his face in his hand. Viktor stared at him, unsure of what he meant. Jayce seemed to notice his confusion and gave a small sigh. "You're shaking like a leaf, Viktor." Was he? Viktor raised a hand to look at himself and... yes. Yes, he was. 

Viktor quickly put his hand back down on top of the cane. "No, no, it's... it's alright. Really, it is my own fault. You did not force me to come along." Viktor tried to assure him. Jayce still looked unbearably guilty. "Jayce, it's-" He flinched as a horn suddenly blared, erupting as a car almost hit a pedestrian on the crosswalk. Viktor had moved forward to slightly hide against Jayce, the other's eyes wide. Viktor had his own eyes squeezed shut. 

"Let's get inside and we can sit down at one of the booths, okay? No one will recognize you." Jayce assured him. Viktor swallowed quietly before nodding. Jayce guided him towards the door and Viktor glanced up at the sound of a tiny bell. A young man greeted them, saying he'd be over to ask for drinks in a moment. Jayce thanked him and brought Viktor over to one of the booths, helping him sit on the cushioned seat. Jayce winced as he settled on the opposite seat. Viktor pulled over the menu, his fingers still shaky. His eyes scanned over the words. He finally squeezed his eyes shut and leaned on his elbows, burying his face in his hands. "Viktor? Do you think you'll be able to stomach anything?" Jayce asked gently. 

Despite how sick with worry he was, Viktor was absolutely starving. He was absolutely starving and he glanced up, giving a small nod. Jayce gave an encouraging smile. "Get whatever you want, okay? I know you don't really get... full meals. We just have to remember to bring home a jelly donut for your dad." Viktor stared at him before nodding. When the young man came over, Viktor requested hot chocolate and Jayce asked for tea. As he left, Jayce couldn't seem to stop staring at Viktor. "...Did I do something?" His question was hesitant and weakened. Viktor blinked and looked over at him. "I know this... I know I just sound like I'm being paranoid, but I... I feel like you're looking at me different. Less... Less friendly or... trusting." Jayce stumbled over his words trying to explain it. Viktor knew it would be easy to just let Jayce think he was imagining it, but that wasn't how he did things. 

"That was... quite a lot of medicine in your car." Viktor said after a moment. He watched the realization happen in real time, Jayce's eyes widening. 

"I-I'm not on all of those, I promise!!" He insisted. "I... I just have... a few problems. I had to cycle through a lot of medicine to find the ones that work. I never really... threw away the other bottles." Jayce seemed relieved that he knew what the problem was now. "I promise, I'm not a pill junkie. I'm not." 

"Mm." Viktor nodded, giving him a small noise of acknowledgment. Jayce stared at him. 

"...You don't like that I'm medicated?" He asked after a moment. Viktor glanced up at him before murmuring that that wasn't it. "Then what is it?" Jayce sounded like he was trying not to be too anxious, but it was shining through. 

"I just know there is a side to you that must remain a mystery to me now. That is all. Medicine is quite necessary for some and it seems to be helping you a great deal. I will not fault you for that." Viktor told him softly. Jayce stared at him before his gaze averted and he apologized again. "You do not need to apologize, Jayce. I understand." He spoke comfortingly, but it didn't seem to do much to help. Viktor had a feeling he'd already ruined this. If he had, at least it made his decision easier now. "I'm sorry..."

"You’re fine, it's okay." Jayce gave a smile. "I just, uh..." He covered the lower half of his face, scratching his beard as he seemed like he was trying not to look crushed. "You... You just seem... disappointed by me now." Viktor glanced up at him before giving a small smile and shaking his head. 

"Not disappointed, Jayce. Simply considering new variables." He replied. His vague answer only seemed to distress Jayce more, but the other wouldn't say anything. They both placed their orders when the young man came back with their drinks. Viktor wanted blueberry French Toast and a coffee roll donut. Jayce wanted cinnamon pancakes with home fries. The young man moved away again. 

"What do you... mean by that, exactly?" Jayce asked, turning his gaze to Viktor again. He seemed hesitant. "Are you... Are you actually just using me?" Viktor startled and quickly shook his head. 

"No! No, my apologies, that... that was not what I meant. I..." Viktor had to take a moment or two to figure out how to explain without sounding insane. "I am required to make a decision on my 25th birthday. It... determines what I do with the rest of my life. I must choose to spend it here or... I must... go." He knew he was making it sound much more morbid than it needed to be, but he would essentially be dying from this world to live in the other. Jayce stared at him in shock. "My father has told me he will not hold it against me if I go. I would love to stay with him, but he believes that I would be better off... not doing so. If he really does not believe himself worth my presence, then I just... want to... find another reason to stay." Viktor managed quietly, his fingers having been curling and uncurling around the hot chocolate mug. 

Jayce seemed speechless as he stared at him. "...Is that why you said yes?" He asked after a moment. "To see if I could give you a life worth staying for?" Viktor instantly wrinkled his nose at that and shook his head. 

"No. I have always lived for others, rather than myself. I want to see if... you... are worth staying for." Viktor clarified, keeping his eyes to the side. Jayce didn't answer for a moment. "I know that is a lot to put on you. Especially since we've just met, but I needed you to know I do not approach you with ill intention. I do not wish to use you for anything. I just..." Viktor's face was hot as he gave a small shrug. "I just... have some... little bit of hope." When Jayce still didn't answer, Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "I'm sorry." 

"N-No, it's okay. Don't be sorry. I'm glad you’re... trying me out first on the road to your... decision." Jayce sounded awkward as he tried to assure him and Viktor's shoulders sank completely. That wasn't what he meant either. His hands fell to his lap and he gave a weak sigh through his nose. He hadn't taken a single sip of his hot chocolate and all the whipped cream had melted. "I, uh, I'll be right back, okay?" Jayce smiled and got up, Viktor watching as he moved towards the restrooms. He took a deep breath. 

He'd ruined this. He'd absolutely ruined it. He'd fucking ruined everything.

Viktor pushed himself up from the booth as soon as the restroom door had shut and turned, leaving the café with the sound of the small bell ringing behind him. He didn't spare a second glance, only trying to figure out where the encampment could be from here. After a few moments, he just decided to start walking, following the sidewalk and leaving the parking lot behind. 

Chapter Text

When night fell and Viktor had to take refuge on a cold bench in the park, he could at least be comforted by the fact that his decision was likely cemented. He would not Frost here. There was likely no more chance with Jayce and Singed wanted a better life for him. Viktor glanced up. It had stopped raining, but the clouds blotted out the stars. His legs hurt and especially his knee. He had no idea where he was. Ever since he'd first come to this world, he'd only ever known the tent city of Zaun. This world of Piltover, this city, it was unfamiliar and terrifying to him. At least out in the park, he didn't hear any cars. He leaned on his cane, pulling back the hood of his raincoat. He was tired and his body hurt. He just wanted to go back to his tent and his blankets. He shouldn't have agreed to go out. 

Soft, crunching footsteps made him jump and he glanced over before flinching as a light was shone on him. "Little late for you to be out, young man." An officer. Older man. He could tell that much. He lowered his arm and turned his head away. "...You're one of the Zaun kids. What are you doing all the way out here??" 

"Is it so obvious?" Viktor asked, raising a brow with a weak attempt at a joke. "I was invited outside the encampment, but I... would really like to just go home now. I do not know where I am." Viktor sounded so defeated as he spoke and he could tell the officer felt bad for him as he clicked his flashlight off. 

"Stand up, kid, I'll get you back." The officer said assuringly. Viktor thanked him softly, pushing himself to his feet. He stumbled a little before following after him. He was led to the patrol car and his hands tightened on his cane as the officer opened the back door for him. He was a little hesitant before getting inside. When the door shut, Viktor startled as the doors automatically locked. He'd never been in one of the patrol cars before. There was a metal grate between the front and back seats. Viktor didn't like how much it felt like he'd just walked into a cage. 

The officer climbed into the front seat with a grunt. "Buckle in." He called back. Viktor nodded and shakily managed to put his seatbelt on. He squeezed his eyes shut as the car roared to life and he felt them start moving. "Have you ever been in a cop car before, young man?" Viktor shook his head, wondering if the tight grip he had on the seatbelt was any indication. "That's good. I hope I don't see you back there again." Viktor nodded. He kept his head down. He was always uncomfortable with the police of this world. He didn't know any of them like he did in the other world. At least this one seemed kind, if not a little weary. He kept glancing at him in the rearview mirror. "I think I recall you from a few years ago." 

"Please don't." Viktor could barely speak in his shaking voice and the officer paused before nodding. It felt like hours before Viktor felt the car pull to a stop. 

"Calm down, calm down! I'm not here for trouble!" The officer called out as he got out of the car, holding up a hand to the clearly anxious crowd below. "Just bringing one of your sons home!" Viktor unbuckled as the back door was opened. The officer helped him out and handed him his cane.

"Viktor!!" Instantly, a few children cried out to him and Viktor managed a small laugh as he felt his legs get swarmed. The officer shut the door, moving back to the front seat. 

"Thank you, sir. It is much appreciated." Viktor told him, giving a weak smile. The officer blinked as the kids turned to him. 

"Thank you, Officer!" Two or three of them chirped out the rehearsed words, the other few hiding. The officer chuckled and nodded, tipping his hat to them. 

"All of you stay out of trouble!" He called, getting back into his car. "Goodnight, Viktor." Viktor paused before saying a soft goodnight in response. His heart was still pounding, but he managed to guide the children down as the patrol car rolled away, its taillights soon disappearing. The adults finally started to approach him. They all kept asking if he was alright and if Singed knew where he was. 

"I was supposed to be back much earlier, but I got lost. My leg aches from walking." Viktor managed. "If I want to make it back to my tent before sunrise, I must keep going." 

"Lad, that place of yours is nearly two hours deep. Come on now." A larger man emerged from one of the side paths. He was much bigger than everyone else, but his eyes were gentle. Viktor paused as that pink-haired teen peered around him. "We can give you a place to sleep for the night." 

"Are you certain?" Viktor asked worriedly. He jumped as there was a blue blur, the smaller girl appearing and hopping around him. 

"Come on, come on!" She insisted. Viktor blinked before smiling and following along behind them. Everyone else started to return to their tents once they were certain Viktor had a place to sleep. He was one of the most recognizable faces in the tent city of Zaun and not for anything good. 

The family's tent was a massive blanket fortress tucked away along the trees. Viktor was allowed to sleep under the deepest part of the blanket fort, where the little girl usually slept. He winced as he curled up, his knee twitching. He paused as the large man settled on the ground in front of him, sitting crisscross. "It's Viktor now, right?" Viktor nodded, knowing that his daughters had likely just told him. "My name is Vander. I do all the speaking for the folks up here in the Lanes." Viktor knew that was the area designated for the parts of the encampment closest to the public. They got in trouble the most. "I know you and your old man are tucked far, far in usually." Viktor nodded. "You're lucky ol' Gordon found you and not a different cop. He's one of the good few. Always polite to me and my girls." His girls... Viktor looked around for the two kids before glancing up at Vander again.

"Your daughter led the charge against my assaulter, yet she was not caught." Viktor said softly, glancing up at him. Vander paused and glanced over to where the pink-haired teen was swatting at her sister lazily as she hung upside down from some tree branches.

"...I know." Vander's words sounded conflicted and heavy. "I'm still trying to keep us from getting accused of every little thing because a few of us felt they had to deliver their own justice." Viktor paused. 

"I am quite thankful for it." He stated, his voice hardening just a little bit. Vander paused and looked back at him before his eyes moved to the ground and he nodded with a heavy sigh. "Your daughter is very strong. And your other one is very smart. You must be proud." Viktor said quietly. Vander managed a soft chuckle and nodded. 

"The girls said you went out with that firefighter volunteer. Mind explaining why you had to be dropped back off by yourself in a cop car?" Vander prompted lightly. Viktor paused, knowing that Jayce would be in danger when he showed his face around here if Viktor didn't explain now. 

"I... believe he was interested in me. I was the same. But I made... several unintentionally insensitive statements and it... soured the air greatly. I decided to leave and try to make my way back myself. It... did not work." Viktor explained quietly. Vander's eyes softened. "I upset him and then I likely panicked him by disappearing. I did not mean for it." Viktor hid his head under one of his arms as he curled up on his side in the blankets. "He is a kind man, I just... do not believe I am cut out for such things." His shoulders were sunken. "Thank you for allowing me a spot to sleep, Vander." 

"...Of course, lad. I don't doubt news of your return will spread back to your father by the end of the hour." Vander assured him. "If you want, I can handle that firefighter of yours tomorrow. Let him know you’re alright, but that you don't want to see anyone." Viktor instantly nodded.

"I would greatly appreciate that." Viktor managed softly. He felt terrible. He really had just gone and ruined his chance just by his own terrible wording and anxiety. He shouldn't have said anything about the pills at all. He shouldn't have even gone. Of course it was too good to be true. He was just... If younger Jayce was like that and this Jayce was on that much medicine, then what could Viktor expect him to be like if he ever ran out or had to go off of it? He'd thought this Jayce was calm and kind because it was a different world, but perhaps the two weren't that different after all. He knew his fear was biased and based on his bad interactions with the younger Jayce, but he couldn't quell it. He didn't want to be grabbed or ogled at again. "G-Goodnight." His voice weakened. 

Vander seemed surprised before nodding. "Goodnight, lad." He scoot himself forward and flopped on his back with a grunt near the front of the fortress. Instantly, the blue-haired girl hopped on him, making him let out a dramatic noise of betrayal. The pink-haired teen was smiling as she crawled over, yelping as Vander pulled her down into a light headlock. Viktor watched them weakly before curling up tighter and closing his eyes. 

Chapter Text

When Viktor finally returned to Singed early the next morning, he found himself being wrapped up in a hug. His shoulders sank and he hugged Singed back with one arm. "I... I thought it.. it had... happened again. That I even willingly participated this time." Singed managed, holding a shaking hand up to his own head once he'd pulled away. Viktor quickly shook his head. 

"No, no. It was my own fault. I got myself lost." Viktor assured him. Singed led him over to his tent and Viktor inhaled shakily as he finally lowered himself down into the opening of his own tent. His legs hurt so much and he finally pulled off the shoes and socks, tucking them off to the side in front of his tent. The raincoat was off next, Viktor wrapping his shoes in it. "I think I would... really like to lay down in my own blankets." He managed weakly. He'd left Vander's tent extremely early due to this. Singed watched him, clearly wondering what had went wrong with Jayce before nodding. He was fiddling with his hands before he held them both up at once as he got an idea. He turned and moved into his own tent before coming out with a couch pillow. He handed it down to Viktor. "Thank you." Viktor made sure his appreciation was in his voice. 

"I'll dissuade the volunteers from you." He assured him. Viktor scoot himself backwards before zipping his tent up. He had all of his softest blankets as he laid down in them. He left enough of a gap for him to peek through in the front of them tent. He was curled up on his side, all the blankets pulled against him or around him. Viktor's fingers shook as they curled into the fabrics. He could hear Singed carefully breaking apart the pieces of glass outside his tent. His knee gave a throb and his eyes suddenly filled with tears. What was wrong with him?? He'd been cruel. Unnecessarily so. He hiccuped softly and closed his eyes. 

The thunder was louder now as it rolled ahead. Viktor sat on the edge of his pond, his body looking as if it had been dipped in liquid moonlight. His scars were visible again. 

Something entered his space. 

Viktor didn't bother to look. He could hear the footsteps. Cautious at first before they seemed to realize where they were. They broke out into a sprint before grunting was heard, the footsteps colliding with something. Viktor turned to look back at that older Jayce, who had his eyes wide and confused as he pressed at the invisible barrier along the tree line. "Hey! H-Hey, let me in!" Jayce called out, his voice taut with worry and panic. Viktor could only stare at him before his arms moved up to hug himself and he turned away again. "No, no, come on! Hey!" Jayce sounded desperate as there were soft thunking noises. He was trying to get through the barrier, but whether by Viktor's unconscious will or the space's own, he couldn't. "Please... Please let me in." Jayce sounded so defeated. "I know I fucked it up with him. Please." 

Viktor paused and turned to look back at him again with a raised brow. "He was the one who ruined everything. Comments with your medication. Dropping a heavy burden on your shoulders like that." Viktor watched as Jayce sank to his knees, his hands pressed to their barrier. 

"No, no, he didn't do anything wrong! He's been through something horrible already and he's scared. It sounds like he's... he's in a lot of trouble. I want to help him. I want to try and be his reason for staying." Jayce insisted. Viktor stared at him before scoffing in disbelief. 

"Why??" 

His tone was so full of contempt that it only seemed to upset Jayce more as he turned his head away. Viktor quickly switched tactics, softening his voice. "The moment he saw your medicine, his trust wavered. You should not be with someone like that." He felt that was true too. He felt like an asshole, but he didn't know if he could quite trust what Jayce was like normally, if he never happened to see it. "You need your medicine. You do not need him." The statement seemed to hurt him as much as it did Jayce. 

"I don't need him, but I... I do want him. I want to try. He needs someone and I can... I can be that someone." Jayce insisted. Viktor raised a brow at him. 

"You have had one conversation with him and approximately a quarter of a date." Viktor stated flatly. Jayce hesitated before glancing off to the side. He looked embarrassed and Viktor furrowed his brow. "That smitten with him already, are we?" Jayce's red ears finally spread to his face. "Why, Jayce? Homeless, judgmental, cowardly. Left you to pick up the bill." Viktor was trying not to choke on his own guilt. He felt like an asshole. He felt horrible and he just wanted Jayce to see that he could do better. 

"I-I was going to pick up the bill anyway." Jayce insisted. "And I'm still bringing him his food. I want him to be able to enjoy his meal. I-I'll even heat it up." Jayce swallowed quietly. "Please let me near the pond. Please?" He pleaded quietly. "Even if he never lets me touch him, can I at least hug you?" Jayce looked him over so awestruck and desperate. "You look like you’re made of moonbeams. I would like to hold one." Viktor's eyes went wide as he stared at him. Jayce reached up and when he pressed his hand forward, the barrier started to crumble. Jayce instantly seemed to perk up at this, wincing as he got to his feet. The barrier fell apart and he stumbled, his own eyes wide. They stared at each other for a moment. "C-Can I...?"

Viktor finally managed a small nod. Jayce came over and grunted as he sat down again. "How do you you want to be held? I don't want to... I don't want you to be scared of me." Jayce said softly. Viktor hesitated as he looked him over. His own face was a little hot as he turned to move over to him. Jayce's eyes dropped down with his mouth and he instantly went bright red, looking away. "Oh, fuck, you're not wearing clothes." Viktor hummed in acknowledgment. He settled himself between Jayce's open legs before leaning back against him. Jayce jumped a little before his legs pulled in for Viktor's to rest on. Viktor's back was against Jayce's chest. "How do you...?" Jayce held his arms out and Viktor paused. He guided them into place. One was wrapped around his waist and he pulled the other around his shoulders so the palm would be next to his cheek. He tipped his head into it. 

Jayce let out a shaky exhale before he leaned forward. Viktor's face went hot as he felt Jayce's cheek rest against the back of his shoulder. "You're so cold, Viktor. Are you okay?" He asked worriedly, his shoulders felt sinking. "Is the moon always so cold?" Viktor's heart was pounding and he leaned back against him a little more, turning his head to meet his eyes ever so slightly. 

"It is heated by the light from the sun." Viktor replied softly. "You are far warmer than me." Jayce paused before pulling him close and trying to warm him with his body. Viktor sighed. "Is this how you imagine he looks?" Instantly, Jayce froze up and he started to sputter protests. Viktor caught his hand and placed it right on his navel, where the start of a soft happy trail was. Jayce instantly shut up, not even seeming like he was breathing. "I have a feeling he might be hyperaware to good, pure intent now. That you would want to touch him with the intent of making him feel good rather than yourself. Is that something you want to do?" 

"O-Once he's ready, yeah." Jayce managed weakly. "I doubt he would've let anyone close after that, I... I can't be the one that hurts him. I'd never forgive myself, I- oh, god." Jayce cut off in a shaking whisper as Viktor slid his hand down just enough until his middle finger was pressed right above his clit. "Holy shit." Viktor leaned into him fully. His own heart was racing. Jayce swallowed. Viktor nudged him promptingly. "O-Okay. I don't want to be rough with him. Ever." Jayce's finger started to rub slow circles on his clit and Viktor exhaled softly as he opened his legs up to allow more access. It was sending nice, small ripples of pleasure through him. "He deserves... soft touches. C-Carefulness." 

Jayce's breath shuddered as he slid his finger down. He put one finger on each of Viktor's folds and pushed them open as his middle finger brushed over his entrance. "Mm." Viktor made a small noise, leaning back against him. "He will not break, Jayce. You do not have to handle him like glass." 

"I know, but someone has already broken him before. Maybe he isn't glass, but he's still fragile, even if he doesn't realize. I don't want to be the one that reopens those cracks. He deserves better than that." Jayce shivered against him before pushing a warm finger inside of Viktor. 

"Hah..." Viktor gave a small shiver in response, lifting his hips just a little. Jayce's finger was already huge and Viktor slipped his eyes shut as he felt him slowly start to slide it in and out. His thumb had taken up the task of the circles on his clit and the gentle stimulation was warming Viktor's body. His cool tones were starting to be replaced with warmer ones. Jayce hesitated before pressing the softest kiss to the side of his neck, right along his hairline. His beard tickled Viktor's skin. The slide of Jayce's finger was becoming easier and easier. Viktor tugged at him gently and Jayce nodded. The second finger gave a little bit of a stretch and Viktor gasped softly. "Oh..." He hadn't had someone touch him like this in years. 

Jayce's breath was warm and shaky against him. "Jayce..." Viktor covered his mouth as Jayce suddenly pushed both fingers in much deeper than he expected and his toes curled as there was a wet noise. He slid his eyes shut as Jayce continued to thrust his fingers to that depth, his thumb still rubbing those comforting circles on his clit. 

"Fuck, I hope that's how you say my name." Jayce whispered into his shoulder. He hugged him closer as he started to speed up his thrusts. Viktor gave tiny cries as he tipped his head back. He could feel himself squeezing around Jayce's fingers as his legs shook. His heart was pounding and he winced, a groan escaping him as his slick spilled over Jayce's fingers. "Viktor..." Jayce pulled his fingers out slowly and Viktor flustered as he saw that translucent part of himself dripping off of Jayce's fingers. To his shock, Jayce brought them up to his mouth immediately and started to clean the slick off. His face was flushed and he finally pulled his cleaned fingers out. "It... melts on my tongue. It's cold. It's what I think starlight would taste like." He murmured in slight awe. 

"Y-You did not have to taste it." Viktor sputtered in soft embarrassment. Jayce paused before burying his face against his shoulder, clearly unable to put together the fact that he'd desperately wanted to. Viktor felt much more relaxed and he knew Jayce could feel it. He reached up and his hand cupped the other side of Jayce's cheek before he pressed a kiss to the side closest to him. "This pursuit of yours may end up hurting you both." 

"There's always going to be hurt in a good relationship. It's how we move past it that matters. If I can... If I can prove that I'm trustworthy, I want to. He just ran away because he was scared and he doesn't really know me. I just..." Jayce went dark red. "...I can't believe I'm already fantasizing about him like this. I'm terrible. This is terrible of me." He sounded so guiltily and Viktor watched him. That meant he was terrible too. "...Did you know these look like butterfly wings on you?" Jayce pulled back to look at him. Viktor paused and his brows raised. Jayce gave a smile. "Your scars. These colorful lines move onto your back." 

Viktor shivered as he felt Jayce tracing a light shape on his shoulder blade. "These colorful lines looked like butterfly wings back here." Viktor hadn't known that and his ears went pink. Jayce laughed softly as he stared at him with golden eyes. "...I want to try. I want to hold him like this. I want to be the reason he stays. I know we just met, but I have never... been so... charmed by someone this fast." Jayce seemed to admit, burying his face against him again. Viktor's heart sped up again. "I just need to prove I'm serious, right? That I'm... I'm trustworthy and I'm... I'm serious about his safety and his wellbeing." Viktor wasn't even sure he knew how to process this. He hadn't thought Jayce would be this dedicated. "...Maybe I'll know what he actually tastes like too." 

The whispered sentence sent such a rush of heated embarrassment through Viktor that he pushed Jayce out of his mind space immediately. Once he was alone again, Viktor buried his burning face in his hands. So he hadn't ruined everything by the sounds of it, but maybe he'd made Jayce twice as determined now. Viktor's heart was pounding. He glanced up. There'd been no sound of thunder since Jayce had broken the barrier. It was eerily peaceful. Viktor hugged himself quietly. What... should he... do?

Chapter Text

Jayce wasn't allowed anywhere near Viktor's tent for two days, but Viktor had certainly allowed Jayce closer than that in his mind space. When he finally heard the footsteps outside his tent and Singed's greeting of surprise, he stiffened up. He was curled up near the back of his tent, having been fixing some old shirts that Singed had found. The needle was held tight in Viktor's fingers and the thread spool dropped next to him as he heard Jayce. "Sir? Is he here?" Jayce sounded hesitant and worried. Viktor assumed that Singed had gestured to his tent because he heard those footsteps make their way over. There was a small grunt of effort as Jayce's shadow was seen lowering itself down. "...Viktor?" 

"...Yes." Viktor finally answered, setting the shirt down. He tucked the needle away into the spool, not wanting to accidentally stab himself.

"Can we talk?" Jayce asked softly. 

"Is that not what we're doing now?" Viktor replied just as quietly. As far as Jayce knew, they hadn't seen each other since their attempt at a date. Jayce was silent for a moment before sighing. 

"Viktor, you know what I mean. Please." Jayce said, sounding a little defeated. "Can we talk somewhere private?" 

-talk somewhere private?

Viktor felt a shiver go down his spine and he couldn't help the scared noise that left his throat. He actively fought back tears before steadying himself with a few deep breaths. "Jayce, I mean this very politely, but do not ever ask me that again." Viktor spoke a little sharper than he meant to and he saw Jayce flinch. Viktor hadn't meant it, but genuinely, it was the same request. "S-Sorry... it was... it was those exact words." He saw Jayce pause.

"Then can I come in?" Jayce asked gently. Viktor paused. He knew Singed did not like strangers in his tent, but Jayce wasn't really... He finally scoot forward and reached out, unzipping the front of his tent. Jayce seemed surprised as he noticed the sewing kit. He carefully slipped inside, sitting next to and across from Viktor. He tugged the tent flap to cover the entrance a little, but he made no attempt to close it. Jayce had slight bags under his eyes and Viktor furrowed his brow. 

"...You have not been sleeping, Jayce?" He asked softly, his hands clasped in his lap. Jayce paused before glancing aside and shaking his head. "I... I see. I want to apologize then. I'm sorry for running. And I... I apologize for... being so... rude to you. Once I realized how it must have sounded, I... figured I had ruined enough. So I left..." Viktor turned his head away, his shoulders sinking. "I figured I would just... climb out before I dug the hole any deeper. I'm sorry." He really did feel ashamed about it and he kept fidgeting with his hands. 

Jayce was looking at him again, seeming like he was understanding a little more now. "You... You did... look at me like I was going to murder you just because you found out I was on medicine." He mumbled, clearly being the most upset about that. Viktor's shoulders sank and he nodded. 

"I'm sorry. I... overreacted... a lot." Viktor stumbled over his words anxiously. He scrunched up his shoulders. "Is that all?" He asked after another moment or two of silence. Jayce blinked. 

"Viktor, I didn't... come here to make you feel bad. I wanted to see you again." Jayce paused. "And make sure you were alright." Viktor glanced up at him before giving a weak laugh. 

"Well, I would say that is, eh, all three boxes checked, no?" He joked softly, his eyes moving back to his clasped hands. Jayce was giving him a flat look when he glanced up again and he quickly sucked in some air through his teeth as he glanced away. He began to draw his legs up to himself the longer the silence went on and he squeezed his eyes shut. "What do you want?! What else do you want?! Stop staring at me!! Stop!" Viktor finally snapped on the other man, startling him. "Stop it, please, please stop it..." He hated that something so small could scare him like that, but he didn't know what Jayce else wanted him to say. Jayce was suddenly pulled out of the tent with a yelp. It seemed like he'd been in the middle of saying something and Viktor hadn't even realized it. He watched through teary eyes as Singed seemed to yell at Jayce, who looked shocked. 

Viktor finally wrenched himself from his own paralysis and crept forward. "Singed." He spoke shakily and the older man instantly jumped, turning to look at him. Viktor finally left his tent, sitting on his knees. "He did not do anything to me. My apologies, I just had a bad reaction to something. He would not have known. We... We have only really had two conversations." 

"Two conversations and he thinks that grants him the right to your tent??" Singed demanded, turning to Jayce with narrowed eyes. Jayce was clearly stunned to hear they'd only had two conversations and Viktor saw it click in his eyes that all those other ones had been dream conversations. 

"I let him in the tent." Viktor said firmly. Singed furrowed his brow and Viktor's shoulders sank. 

"Viktor. You cannot be so trusting again." Singed's voice was firm. Viktor shrank down a little. 

"I do not think Jayce would-" 

"We both 'didn't think' a lot of things before, Viktor." Singed's words made him freeze up. He knew Singed was right, but... Viktor slowly lowered his gaze to the ground and managed a small apology. 

"Please just let me talk to him unsupervised, sir. Please." Jayce spoke up, his eyes wide. "I'll stay right here. I won't move from this spot, even." Singed furrowed his brow. He glanced at Viktor. Viktor gave a small nod and a pleading look. 

"...I will back in an hour." Singed said, picking up two bowls of broken glass to go clean in the river. "Viktor, remember the closest neighbors can hear you, if need be." He added to him quietly. Viktor nodded. Singed narrowed his eyes on Jayce before turning and moving away, disappearing into the trees. Viktor knew Singed always treated him like he was still a teen instead of a fully-grown adult, but it was out of good intention. Singed was a lot more wise and a lot more clever than he let on. 

"...I'm sorry you keep getting in trouble because of me, Jayce. I really think it would be best to part ways if it is going to be nothing but problematic." Viktor jumped as Jayce sat up. 

"I don't know if I can!" He blurted out. Viktor leaned back, staring at him with wide eyes and Jayce seemed to catch himself. "S-Sorry... but I... I don't know if I can just... stop seeing you. You've started showing up in my dreams." He paused. "N-Not in weird ways." Viktor furrowed his brow. "But I... I think about you a lot. Genuinely, I think I might be... I might be a little... hopeless." Jayce quickly held the back of his own neck, his shoulders scrunched. "I'm not trying to be creepy or... or weird. I know we've... This is only our third time speaking, but I..." Jayce seemed to become frustrated, burying his face in his hands. He really did look a mess. He looked exhausted and he looked troubled. "I don't know..." 

"...Maybe a nap would do you some good, Jayce." Viktor said quietly. Jayce's shoulders sank. He nodded before jumping as Viktor unzipped the front of his tent all the way and pinned the flaps to the side walls. He grabbed the spool and needle along with the shirts, placing them to the side.

"Viktor?" Jayce sounded confused as he stared at him. Viktor was setting up the pillows in the back of the tent and he glanced back at him. Jayce seemed taken back. 

"...Nap." Viktor stated, gesturing to the blankets and pillows. "I could use one myself." He set the blankets side for the moment before scooting himself off to the side of the tent. "Are you joining me?" Jayce was speechless for a moment. He glanced back in the direction of the rest of the encampment. "The last volunteers leave at 7 PM and it is either noon or 11 AM, based on the sun's positioning. You have time." Viktor said, raising a brow. Jayce blinked. He hesitated before starting to crawl forward. Viktor let Jayce slip into the tent next to him. Their legs would both be poking out, but Viktor did that so Singed could see them. Jayce laid back against the pillows, still seeming startled as Viktor laid out the blankets over the both of them. He settled against his own pillows. 

"You're really okay with this?? I'm... basically a stranger in your bed." Jayce said uncertainly. 

"And I am a stranger in your head, from the sounds of it." Viktor replied, glancing over at him. Jayce's ears tinted red. "Indulge me for a moment." He reached out and pulled Jayce's arm around his head so he could rest in the crook of his elbow. Jayce had stiffened up, but Viktor felt him relaxing again. "I like to think I've become better at judging intent since that day..." Viktor said softly. "Nothing about you screams malicious. Perhaps that was why it scared me so much when I saw the medicine. I did not know if I was reading you correctly. But even now, there's... nothing that tells me I am in danger." Viktor reached up, his hand sliding over Jayce's. Jayce's fingers trembled. "...Your hands are quite large." 

"Maybe your hands are just small." Jayce spoke in a slightly teasing tone and Viktor scoffed indignantly. "So you're comfortable like this? You're not scared?" Jayce sounded like he just wanted to make sure. 

"I am comfortable. I am not scared." Viktor confirmed quietly. He leaned his head against his arm. "You're warm, Jayce." He slipped his eyes shut. "Do you think you will dream of me again?" He let a bit of cockiness creep into his tone and he heard Jayce give a soft, embarrassed scoff. 

"Don't sound so smug about it." 

Chapter Text

Something crashed into his space. 

Viktor was on his feet in an instant. He was wearing the older Jayce's fire station hoodie and the black, form-fitting pants. He knew in an instant it wasn't this Jayce. What was the young one doing here?? He hadn't called for him. Viktor waited, but he didn't hear anything. No rushed footsteps. No one calling out. Viktor furrowed his brow. It had to be the younger Jayce. He'd only ever really brought Singed and the older Jayce here before and the younger Jayce was the only one that landed like a hurricane. Viktor finally started forward. Something must've been wrong, right?? He hugged himself quietly. His skin was prickling. 

He moved into the treeline, heading towards where he sensed the disturbance in the space. There. Viktor paused. One of Jayce's arms looked broken and he was breathing heavily, curled up on his side. His eyes were squeezed shut and his face was... tear-stained?? Viktor couldn't... quite tell if those were all tears. He'd known the holding cells were not the most comfortable place and Jayce had certainly made enemies by calling out the elites' precious secret, but this... "Jayce." Viktor spoke his name in a slightly trembling tone, making the other man jerk back a little, his eyes widening. 

"H-Hey!" Good gods, he sounded awful. Viktor furrowed his brow. Jayce tried to push himself up with his good arm, his other one tucked against him. "Hey, I-I'm sorry I scared you last time. I-I got too excited and that was my fault." Viktor could only stare at him for a moment. 

"Jayce, your arm is broken." Viktor stated, moving over to him and kneeling down. Jayce flinched and jerked back like he'd been kicked in the hip. Viktor was quiet. "Jayce, are you... being beaten right now??" 

"I think so. Pl-Please don't let me wake up yet." Jayce managed shakily. Viktor quickly reached out to him, but when he lifted Jayce's head, the other's jaw seemed to instinctively go slack, like he was... expecting something. Viktor felt a chill down his spine. 

"Jayce. What have they done to you??" He sputtered. Jayce swallowed heavily as he tried to focus on him. "What are they still doing?? Here. Get up." Viktor quickly got to his feet and Jayce began to protest before Viktor narrowed his eyes. "Jayce, get up!" He ordered firmly. Jayce barely managed to push himself up, Viktor shoving himself under one of his arms so Jayce could lean on him. Viktor pulled him towards the pond and, once they broke the treeline, they were fully within Viktor's space and Jayce seemed to stop being affected by outside forces. He collapsed to his knees, dragging Viktor down too. 

"Hey, this area, did you make it yourself??" Jayce asked in his raspy voice, slouched over. Viktor couldn't believe he was still trying to ask questions. "I-It's beautiful. I'm not usually a fan of cl-clouds and storms, but I like the... the thunder. It never really seems to get any closer and that's pretty..." Jayce inhaled shakily. "I don't really have a good relationship with storms, but it's usually-" 

"Blizzards?" Viktor finished, sitting in front of him. Jayce paused and stared at him. He gave a wordless nod after a moment. His good hand seemed like it was anxiously kneading the grass and Viktor stared at it quietly.

"H-How did you...?" Jayce paused and it seemed to click. "There's the other me! The other world! Have you met him?? What's he like?? Is he a scientist?? Does he know about the Arcane?" Jayce sounded so genuine that Viktor was almost able to overlook the way his rapid-fire questions made his head spin. He quickly held up a hand and Jayce shut his mouth so fast that his jaw clicked. Viktor stared at him before giving a weak snort. 

"Did... that not hurt? Good gods, Jayce, do not do that." Viktor said, giving a weak, exasperated smile. Jayce gave a dismissive shrug and a small laugh. 

"I-I mean, arm's broken. Can't really beat that." He managed quietly. Viktor nodded. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry I called you out in front of everyone, even if they all knew. And I'm sorry I kept trying to approach you and touch you. I couldn't-"

"Jayce." Viktor spoke softly and assuringly. "It's alright. Just please try to contain yourself." He hesitated. "I did want to try and talk to you about your research last time you were here, but I became too overwhelmed." Jayce stared at him before lighting up a little.

"M-My research? You’re interested?" He asked hopefully. "Wh-Which part??"

"Erasing the age limit for Intersects. There are people in both worlds that I have grown fond of. It would pain me to leave them." Viktor admitted softly, his fingers curling into the hoodie. Jayce seemed to notice the article of clothing and, for once, his manic expression seemed to soften in understanding. "This conversation would be better held when I have returned to your world-"

"Hey, uh-" Jayce blurted out the words, startling Viktor again. "I-Is there, uh, any way you can get the guards to know that you're not... you’re not upset with me??" He swallowed shakily and Viktor's heart sank. "Is there any way you can get them to stop hurting me? Please?" Viktor hesitated. 

"If... If they give you the chance, mention 'The Road Not Taken' by Robert Frost. 1916." Viktor managed quietly. "It is... It the the coined basis of Intersection. Everyone knows that, but only Heimerdinger and I know the words of the poem. All Intersects know the words by heart." Viktor had never even seen the poem himself, but he knew it was the product of the world he currently resided in. The guards would recognize it and there was no way Jayce would've known the date and author if he hadn't spoken to the Intersect directly. 

"A poem?" Jayce asked breathlessly. Viktor nodded. "Can I, uh... Can I lay down? Would that be rude?" Viktor's shoulders sank and he shook his head. Jayce shakily laid himself on his side. "Do you know all the words? Really? You can just say it?" Jayce asked curiously. "I'm better at memorizing numbers."

"I have known the words since I was a small child." Viktor answered quietly. Jayce stared at him expectedly and Viktor gave a soft chuckle. "Expecting something?" Jayce's eyes were bright and Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips. "It is a favorite of the Arcane. Something quite peculiar happens when I recite it within this space. I wonder how it will adapt, knowing you are here." Viktor said, watching the curiosity in Jayce's eyes grow. "Two roads diverged in a yellow wood-" 

A child giggled. 

Jayce startled and pushed himself up, looking around with wide eyes. Viktor recited the poem quietly. "Then took the other, as just as fair-"

A second giggle.

A warm smile pulled at Viktor's lips. When he did it out in reality, it made his skin prickle. However, as he continued to speak, his skin and his form started to shimmer and become transparent, like he was made of starlight. Jayce's eyes went wide. The thunder rolled overhead in a distant, comforting rumble. Viktor's voice took on a vague echo and Jayce stared out into the treeline as there were soft footsteps. 

Among the trees, two vague silhouettes were peering out. Small children, but not just any small children. It always brought a sense of nostalgia to Viktor to see himself with his cane he'd made from a piece of driftwood. His child self glittered, listening to the poem with wide eyes. The other... Viktor couldn't help but smile. It seemed like Jayce had been a bit chubbier in his youth, yet that bright gleam in his eyes remained. "I shall be telling this with a sigh. Somewhere ages and ages hence." Viktor watched as the two children lit up in excitement. It seemed the last verse was always the Arcane's favorite. "Two roads diverged in a wood and I-" He paused for dramatic effect, making Jayce's child self let out an excited little squeal. 

"I took the one less traveled by, and that... has made... all... the difference." Viktor finished gently. Jayce seemed speechless as he watched the two kids start to clap in delight before disappearing into speckles of stardust. He glanced back at Viktor, seeming fascinated. 

"The abilities of an Intersect are lined in the basis of a poem about future and choice?" Jayce asked, his voice hushed. Viktor gave a small laugh. 

"I always saw it as a poem of regret and missed opportunity. Perhaps I should read into it a little lighter." Viktor admitted softly. Jayce paused and Viktor could see the gears turning in his head. 

"...Frost." He finally said, his eyes wide. Viktor chuckled softly. 

"Frost." He agreed. Jayce's look of dumbfounded awe spurred another soft bout of laughter from Viktor. Both of them jumped as there were quick, little footsteps. Jayce jerked away as his child self appeared next to him, looking him over with glowing eyes. Viktor startled as his own young silhouette touched his shoulder. "...You do not usually stay." Viktor said softly, his child self slightly hiding behind him as it watched Jayce uncertainly. Even Jayce's child self was circling him curiously. "Something about him intrigues you?" 

Jayce was frozen. "...They don't usually do this?" He asked uncertainly. 

"Usually there is only one." Viktor gestured behind him at his kid self. He was wondering why the Arcane was looking this Jayce over so intently. The child seemed interested in something on Jayce's arm. Without another word, both of the children vanished. Viktor furrowed his brow. Jayce swallowed quietly. "Jayce?" 

"I think I'm trying to wake up. Can't you keep me here?" He asked quietly. Viktor watched him before shaking his head.

"I can pull you in, but I do not control if you stay." Viktor said apologetically. Jayce squeezed his eyes shut. "Jayce." He prompted him. 

"R-Road Not Taken. Robert Frost. 1916." Jayce managed quietly. Viktor nodded, watching him in worry. 

"Yes, good. I will see you when I return." Viktor assured him. Jayce nodded and exhaled shakily before he was gone. Viktor was left alone in the space. Or so he thought. He glanced up, seeing Jayce's child self peering out from one of the trees. "Why does he fascinate you so?" Viktor asked curiously. The child only stared before disappearing. As he expected, he received no answer. Only distant thunder. 

Chapter Text

When Viktor blinked open his eyes, all he heard was the soft snoring of the man next to him. The sun had changed positions outside the tent and he could hear Singed tinkering with his glass pieces nearby. There was... something lying between him and Jayce, around their hips. Viktor paused and looked down. "Rio." He whispered in a gentle, scolding tone. The stray was stretched out between them, her tail flicking back and forth. Viktor couldn't imagine how jealous Singed probably was. Viktor laid his head back down. 

Jayce continued to snore softly and Viktor couldn't help but find it slightly endearing. He hesitated before leaning and burying his face slightly into Jayce's side. The other's arm was wrapped around him, holding Viktor tight against himself. Viktor reached up, curling his fingers into Jayce's shirt. He was so warm and if Viktor stayed close enough, he could smell the artificial pine embedded in his clothes. Jayce liked candles. He'd mentioned that when they met. Viktor paused as Jayce's snoring started to die down and he kept himself tucked against Jayce's side. He didn't want to leave it yet and he closed his eyes. "Mmh?" Jayce made a small noise of confusion and Viktor had to purse back his laughter as he heard his back crack. Rio instantly let out a whine of protest, startling him. "Oh! Hey." 

Jayce started to shift around, but Viktor could see the moment he noticed him. Viktor still had his fingers hooked in his shirt fabric and his head tucked under Jayce's shoulders, in the crook of his arm. "Oh... hey..." Jayce spoke much quieter now. He seemed like he didn't know what to do. Viktor felt Jayce brush some hair back from his face. He was heard giving a small sigh through his nose before gently nudging his shoulder. "Viktor." His voice was very soft. Viktor stretched out his legs, hearing a small pop from his hips. He opened his eyes and glanced up. He shouldn't have. Jayce's eyes were warm. They were so warm that he felt his face instantly flush. Jayce blinked and his ears seemed to tint as he glanced away. Viktor pushed himself up into a sitting position, much to Rio's displeasure.

"Do you feel better?" Viktor asked quietly, looking down at him. Jayce started to nod before a grin pulled at Viktor's lips. "Dreamed of me, did you?" Instantly, Jayce's ears went red and he scoffed. 

"Was that what you were hoping?" He shot back, though he was clearly flustered. Viktor laughed quietly, Jayce chuckling a little himself. Both of them jumped as Singed knelt in front of the tent with a grunt. His brow was raised. 

"I see you both are awake. Viktor, a word, please." Singed's voice was quiet and Viktor paused before nodding. He inched forward, Rio begrudgingly getting up and leaving the tent. He could feel Jayce staring after him. Viktor used his cane to get to his feet once he'd picked it up and Singed led him away just into the treeline. "Viktor." 

"I understand your worry, Singed, but I promise you I am confident in his kindness this time." Viktor insisted. He glanced back out at Jayce, who winced as he scoot himself forward. He caught Viktor's eye and furrowed his brow worriedly, but Viktor looked back at Singed. "I know we both suffered a lapse in judgement before-" 

"Viktor, you suffered our lapse in judgement." Singed interjected, his voice a little strained as he looked him over. "I trusted that man as much as you did and I don't believe in trusting so easily again. I mean this kindly, but do you really trust this one or are you just... hopeful?" Singed's shoulders were sunken as he placed a bandaged hand on Viktor's. Viktor hesitated, his hands tightening on his cane. 

"I..." He trailed off uncertainly. "Jayce has been nothing but kind to me. I've even said some... some incredibly insensitive things to him and he came back anyway. If the encampment were not so protective, I do not doubt he would have shown up as soon as the sun rose the day after I was brought back here." Viktor's hands were still tight and Singed seemed to take notice, frowning. He stated his name in a firm, yet prompting tone and Viktor scrunched up his shoulders a little, avoiding his eyes. "...I have allowed him into my space."

"Viktor." Singed's voice became low with shock and Viktor fought the urge to flinch. "This world is not attuned to the Arcane. Exposing it to someone from here is beyond dangerous, to them especially. You could seriously hurt this man in ways indescribable to his comprehension!" Viktor hesitated. While he couldn't be certain just yet, it had already shown a positive and curious reaction to the younger Jayce. Viktor's white lie was escaping him before he could stop it. 

"I recited the poem to Jayce and it showed itself. Both him and I were present. It even took the time to investigate him. I think it may like him." Viktor glanced out towards the clearing, where Jayce was trying to get Rio to come butt against his hand. "It wouldn't like him if he had ill intent, would it?" He looked back to Singed, who'd fallen silent. He seemed to be thinking. 

"...The Arcane is a fickle thing, Viktor. We cannot understand its motives or its wants, but it seems fond of Intersects. While I don't believe it would have approached him if he planned to hurt you, I would not take my word as law. We still don't know." Singed said, his voice quiet and resigned. Viktor felt a slight churning in his stomach. He technically wasn't lying that the Arcane had approached Jayce, but he felt guilty for letting Singed think it was this one. Maybe he could test it again once he pulled this Jayce back into his space. No matter how often he recited the poem, the Arcane would come peeking. Surely he could get it to appear again. "You have to be cautious, Viktor. If he betrays our trust, the things this man would be a fine specimen for-" 

"You said you retired your experimentations, Doctor." Viktor stated flatly. "You said the police of this world nearly caught you." 

"Nearly." Singed stated, making Viktor scoff. 

"I understand, Singed. But I do believe this..." Viktor glanced over. Jayce was petting Rio, albeit very cautiously. "I believe this is something I would like to pursue." His voice fell a little lighter than he meant and he heard Singed finally let out a sigh. 

"...And if he hurts you, I'll let you decide what animal DNA would look best in him." The older man said, his hands folded behind his back. 

"Singed." 

"Doctor." Singed replied, glancing at him. "If he happens to be a bad seed, is all." Viktor rolled his eyes. Singed watched him before his eyes softened. "Go to him. I'll watch over when I can." Viktor blinked before lighting up a little. He turned and made his way back into the clearing. Rio quickly got up and pattered away as he approached. Jayce glanced up from where he'd been checking his phone before perking just a bit. 

"Hey." Jayce grunted as he got to his feet, glancing over Viktor's shoulder uncertainly. "Are we, uh... Are we in trouble?" 

"No, no. He is wary I trust you too easily." Viktor hesitated. "Perhaps I do." Jayce's shoulders sank a little. 

"I, uh, I'll do whatever I can to... to validate that trust to him. I don't want to be a repeat. Especially of something like that." Jayce's voice slightly strained. "Do you think we're getting too close too fast?" He asked it gently, but Viktor could tell in an instant that it was a fear Jayce was harboring as well. 

"Do you dislike being close with me?" Viktor asked, though he knew the answer. Jayce paused and glanced away. 

"...You show up in my dreams, Viktor, I don't... really think it's a question." Jayce mumbled in embarrassment. He glanced over at him. "Do you dream about me too?" 

"A little egotistical, don't you think?" Viktor spoke teasingly, a smile tugging at the side of his lips. Jayce scoffed at him in amused disbelief and Viktor laughed quietly before sighing. "...Perhaps." He wouldn't elaborate further and Jayce narrowed his eyes at him playfully. Viktor only gave a mischievous grin in response.

Jayce watched him before giving a small sigh. "You're not worried this is too fast? I know that's, uh, that's usually a red flag. I'm not trying to be..." Jayce trailed off, glancing to the side.

"Do you think it's too fast?" Viktor asked uncertainly. He knew it was too fast. They'd met two weeks ago. Realistically, they'd spoken maybe three or four times now. Jayce didn't seem to know how to answer. It was definitely too fast, but Viktor didn't... feel like it was wrong. In fact, he dared say he... liked it. He paused and glanced up at the sky. "You do not have to leave soon?" 

"I have two hours until the last van leaves. You're not trying to get rid of me already, are you?" Jayce asked, smiling. Viktor tipped his head before stepping closer and making sure Singed wasn't in earshot. 

"I may have to. I do need to wash myself today." Viktor told him. Jayce paused and his ears tinted. Viktor looked him over curiously. "Surely you are not considering asking what I think you are." Jayce instantly went red and shook his head. 

"N-No! No, no, it would be an invasion of your privacy. I know I accidentally did it already from our first conversation, but that's not something I, uh, I want to make a h-habit of..." Jayce stumbled over his words as Viktor watched him.

"And if I said I would let you?" Viktor's question was soft, but it brought all of Jayce's words to a screeching halt as he stared at him with wide eyes. Viktor chuckled softly. He moved past him and gathered up what he'd need. He started past Jayce again, heading in the direction of the pond. 

"V-Viktor." Jayce's voice made him stop and he looked back at him with a raised brow. "Are you...?" He was anxious and Viktor could tell Jayce didn't want to make him feel trapped. "Can I...?" Viktor's gaze softened.

"Come on." Viktor invited, his voice nearly a whisper. Jayce let out a soft breath. He moved up next to Viktor, following along beside him as they left the clearing. 

Chapter Text

The only thing calming Viktor's nerves was the laugh he had to hold back at how dumbfounded Jayce seemed by the pond when they reached it. He kept glancing at the sky, seeming so extremely confused about the fact that there weren't rolling lavender clouds overhead. "Jayce?" Viktor stared back at him from in front of the pond and the other jumped, focusing back on him. 

"S-Sorry! I... I see this place in my dreams a lot too. It usually... looks a little different." He glanced around again. Viktor hugged the towel and bath products against his chest quietly, his eyes averting to the side. Jayce already knew, but Viktor was still shaking inside at the thought of revealing himself like this. "Viktor? Hey, what's wrong?" Jayce hesitantly came up and offered his hand. Viktor swallowed quietly and took it. 

"There is, uh, something about me that may... drive you away. I understand it's a rather taboo subject for some here, but I was... I was not born a..." It was Viktor's turn to stumble over his words. 

"I know." 

"You know??" Viktor echoed instantly, staring up at him with wide eyes. Jayce went dark red and glanced aside quickly. 

"Nothing b-bad!! Nothing bad! I-I saw your... your scars when we met, b-but I thought I was imagining it. Th-They healed really well." Jayce stuttered, clearly aware of how close he was toeing the line on a touchy subject. Viktor stared at him.

"And you are not... dissuaded by this? I know there are many here who would be." Viktor muttered, turning his head away. Jayce blinked.

"No. I mean, I've never been with... with someone who's transitioned, but... I'm not closed off to it. I still... I still want to talk to you and see you." Jayce assured him. Viktor paused, a little uncertain now. He knew Jayce had been eager to touch him in his mind space, but what about now?

"You would talk to me and come to see me, but you wouldn't want to touch me." Viktor stated in a clarifying tone, his brow furrowed. Jayce went red again, his ears a whole different shade.

"No, no, I would..." Jayce instantly inhaled through his teeth. "That's the, uh, the end of my statement. Before I make this worse." Viktor managed a little laugh, though he was sure his own nerves poked through. He turned away and set his things down. He began to tug at his shirt and he hesitated. Why was he so nervous?? Jayce had seen him before. He'd touched him before. It wasn't even his pants yet! Viktor scrunched up his shoulders a little. "Viktor?" Jayce sounded uncertain and Viktor glanced back. Jayce jumped and quickly turned away again. He'd turned his back to him, but he'd been watching over his shoulder. "Are you... Are you sure you’re comfortable with me being here?"

"Yes." Viktor answered immediately because he knew that much. "I just... have not exposed myself to another for a good few years now. For reasons I hope remain clear. And people are quite... judgmental when it comes to someone like me. I just... don't want you to regret me."

"I won't!" Jayce blurted out, his eyes wide. "I-I won't." He spoke in a softer voice as he held his hands up. Viktor stared at him. Jayce swallowed before glancing aside. "Do you need, uh... Do you need help?" Viktor felt like he should've responded with something snarky, but he didn't think he could do it. Instead, he only nodded in dumbfounded silence. His heart was racing as Jayce moved over. He helped Viktor out of his shirt, folding it for him as he looked him over. He was uncertain, but his eyes remained warm. Viktor didn't know how. He fought the urge to cover himself. "Your chest healed really well. I would never know if I weren't standing so close." Jayce told him assuringly. Viktor gave a weak smile.  

His smile faltered a little and he swallowed. He'd be okay as long as he could see what Jayce was doing. He finally hugged himself. "A little more help, if you would?" He requested softly. Jayce stared at him and he saw him visibly exhale before he nodded. He reached out and undid the buttons on the front of Viktor's pants before his thumbs pushed into the waistband above either hip. He finally pushed them down, having Viktor step out of them. Viktor felt exposed and his heart was racing. He couldn't tell if it was out of fear or excitement. Jayce kept his eyes firmly on his face, though he seemed flustered. 

"N-No boxers?" He asked, Viktor scrunching up his shoulders. 

"I only own one pair. I try to not wear them more than I need to." Viktor admitted. Jayce stared at him before nodding. "I should get into the pond. I do not want to run the risk of anyone catching me bare and you still fully-clothed. They may assume you are, uh, doing something to me." Viktor turned away and Jayce remained quiet. Viktor lowered himself down, setting his cane on the bank before he fully slipped into the water. He gave a small shiver. Jayce was heard grunting and Viktor turned back to see Jayce sat at the edge of the bank, his leg propped outwards. "You will clean my hair?" Jayce's eyes were gentle as he nodded, picking up the shampoo. Viktor ducked under the water for a moment to wet his hair, coming back up and giving a shiver. 

He made his way over to Jayce, staring at him expectedly. Jayce only stared down at him before glancing aside nervously and Viktor paused, raising a brow at him. "I, uh... Would it scare you if I... I joined you?" Jayce's question was so soft that Viktor almost didn't catch it. But catch it, he did, because his face went completely hot as he stared at him. 

"If you wish to, I won't protest. But I need you to stay in front of me. I need to see everything you do. It may seem... childish, but the pond especially is where I feel safest. I... I need to feel safe here." Viktor managed quietly, hugging himself and backing up. Jayce nodded, seeming to understand completely as he set the shampoo back down. "Please let me know when I am allowed to turn around again." Viktor turned away and he could hear the shuffling of clothes. For a moment, he almost covered his face because it didn't sound like Jayce had hesitated at all to start stripping down. He let out a soft, hesitant breath as he finally heard Jayce slip down into the water with a small grunt. 

"You can look." Jayce's voice was gentle, if not a little embarrassed. Viktor turned and his face went hot anyway. He scrunched his shoulders up. His eyes landed on Jayce's arm and widened. He hesitated before moving over to him, reaching out to it in worry. Jayce paused and held it up. He had burn scarring around one of his forearms. Viktor stared at it in quiet dismay. "Hey, it's okay. This happened a while ago. I have burns all over. Comes with the job." Jayce said, smiling. "I do freelance metal work on the side. Fire's like a lover to me at this point." He joked quietly. 

Viktor laughed softly before pausing as Jayce turned to pick up the bottle again. He had another burn scar stretching diagonally across his back. "Do you not have a proper shower at home, Jayce?" Viktor asked teasingly. "It would have everything you need there." Jayce turned back to him and his gaze softened before he gave a small shrug. 

"I mean... not everything." He said in a soft voice, making Viktor freeze up a little. "Come here." Jayce invited him softly and Viktor moved forward. "Close your eyes." Viktor did so and he tensed as he felt Jayce's fingers start to massage the shampoo into his wet hair. He relaxed a little, his shoulders sinking as he felt Jayce's warm fingers against his scalp. They were moving far too fast. This was far too fast, but Viktor adored it. And it didn't seem like Jayce was opposed to it either. He had Viktor rinse out his hair after a moment. Jayce gently pushed it out of his face with a warm smile. Viktor hesitated before he tipped his head into Jayce's hand. Jayce paused as he stared at him. "Viktor..." 

"Mm?" Viktor glanced up at him quietly, his own hand slipping up to cup Jayce's. "Is there a problem, Jayce?" His question was supposed to be teasing, but he couldn't quite get it there. Not when Jayce was looking at him like that. Jayce shook his head. He rubbed his thumb over his cheek before leaking back and fetching the conditioner. He pulled his hands back. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He shivered as he felt Jayce's hands slide through the ends of his hair before they cupped the back of his head. "Jayce...?" Jayce hesitated again, clearly struggling with himself. 

"...It's too soon." He mumbled to himself, as if to mentally smack himself on the hand. Viktor watched him quietly. 

"Far too soon." He agreed quietly. Hs reached up and gripped Jayce's shoulder before pulling him down and letting their lips meet. Jayce melted against him and Viktor let his eyes slip shut. It was too fast, yet not fast enough all at once. What a mess. 

Chapter Text

Viktor took the smallest step closer. Jayce deepened the kiss and Viktor gladly kept up with him. Jayce pulled back just for a moment, letting them both take a breath before their lips came back together. Viktor's hand shakily reached up, his fingers curling against Jayce's shoulders. When they pulled back from each other completely, Viktor's face was hot. His lips were parted as he pulled in breaths and covered his mouth. He was embarrassed by himself and he turned his head away. Jayce could only seem to stare at him, his own cheeks flushed. "Y-You should wash out the conditioner." He managed softly. Viktor hesitated before backing up and lowering himself down enough to tip his head backwards into the water completely. He shakily drew his fingers through it before jumping as there was a soft swish. Jayce appeared next to him and he offered his hand for Viktor to hold. 

Viktor stared at it in quiet confusion before reaching up and holding it with both of his own. He inhaled softly as he felt Jayce's other hand slip into his hair, carefully running his fingers through it. Viktor let his eyes slip shut as Jayce cleaned the conditioner from him. He finally scooped a hand under Viktor's head and lifted it. Viktor stood up straight and he opened his eyes, looking up at Jayce again. "How do you feel?" Jayce asked quietly. Viktor paused before giving a small smile. Jayce chuckled. "Planning on letting go of my hand any time soon?" Viktor paused. Instead of flustering, he decided to double down and he raised Jayce's hand to his face. "Viktor? Are-" 

Jayce's voice ended in a soft inhale as Viktor lightly bit his finger. Jayce hesitated before pulling his hand back just a little. His thumb brushed over Viktor's lip as he faced him completely. "...I think I'm frightened, Jayce. But not of you." Viktor admitted quietly. Jayce blinked and his eyes softened. Viktor was still holding onto his forearm, needing something to ground him through this. "I am frightened of this ending badly, as it has before with this kind of thing. Not exactly the same way, but I..." Viktor felt like if he kept speaking, he would start to devolve into nonsense. "...You are right. This is far too fast." 

"And... do you mind that?" Jayce asked, seeming to be checking with him. Viktor paused and glanced to the side. His eyes moved back and he stared at Jayce with a raised brow. "I don't think I mind... I just don't want to end up accidentally hurting you. I want to... I need to know you’re sure about this." Jayce momentarily stumbled over his own words. "Because it is. It is really fast. Already... bathing together after maybe the third conversation is a little... It's a little crazy." Jayce gave a small laugh as he glanced to the side. 

"It is." Viktor agreed softly. "But I think I like it very much." He couldn't look Jayce in the eyes while he spoke. The one thing he was grateful for was that Jayce didn't seem to be expecting anything more from him after such a kiss. Even if they were both standing bare, Jayce seemed more than happy just standing with him. The way he wasn't asking for anything made Viktor want to give it to him that much more. "Jayce." He moved forward into his space again, making the older man stiffen up. Viktor's hand slid along his arm as the other one settled on his chest. Jayce's heart was pounding. "Is there anything you want right now?" 

"I wouldn't ask anything from you, it's okay. I didn't come here expecting anything, I promise." Jayce assured him quickly, his eyes wide. Viktor felt touched by that, but...

"Jayce. I am asking so I can see if I am willing to give it to you." Viktor said softly, staring at him. Jayce let out a soft swear as he stared at him. He kept his mouth shut, but his eyes kept darting around. "Jayce." Viktor's voice was playful and prompting as he looked him over. Jayce definitely wanted something, he could tell. He was too worried to ask for it. "Please do not treat me like I am some broken thing-"

"Not broken. Repaired. Recovering. I just don't want to... end up reopening the cracks." Jayce admitted, his nerves showing in his voice. Viktor's gaze softened. He tipped his head at him and raised his brows. Jayce visibly swallowed before turning his head away and mumbling something. Viktor tapped his chest, his movements prompting. "...eat you out?" Jayce barely managed through his flushed face. Viktor blinked and his own face flushed. "Please, can I... can I do that for you?" 

"...You want it for yourself as well." Viktor replied, seeming to make Jayce look away in shame. He was still holding his arm and he moved past him, heading towards the bank. "Come on." 

"Are you sure, Viktor??" Jayce was momentarily shocked as he followed behind him. Viktor kept a tight grip on his arm, just so he remembered who it was he had behind him. Not who his brain would trick him into believing. Viktor nodded. He reached the bank and turned to face Jayce again. He let go of his arm and set his hands on the bank behind him before heaving himself up to sit on it. Jayce was frozen as Viktor slowly spread his legs. He seemed to be firmly focusing on Viktor's face, even with the other exposing himself. Viktor gave a small nod and Jayce's eyes finally trailed downwards. He visibly swallowed again before moving forward. He reached his hands out, gently slipping one under each of Viktor's thighs. "You're sure?" He stated, looking up at him. 

"I am sure." Viktor replied softly, his face burning hot. He hadn't exposed himself like this in years. To have someone looking at that part of him so closely was downright embarrassing. He inhaled softly as Jayce finally leaned forward. The other man seemed just as flustered and he finally delivered a small kitten lick to Viktor's clit. Another followed. Another one. It made Viktor's body tingle. When Jayce finally gave the first suck, it startled a noise from Viktor, him covering his mouth with wide eyes. Jayce continued to suck at his clit, his breath warm and panting. Viktor shivered and slowly leaned himself back so he would be propped up on his elbows. Jayce gave his clit a gentle nip before pulling back. His hand left Viktor's thigh and he gasped softly as he felt two fingers spreading open his folds. "Jayce..." His name left his mouth in a soft breath and he felt a shuddery one in response. 

Jayce started to lap between his folds, the strokes slow and focused. Viktor let out a weak noise, arching his back a little. He hadn't felt that in a long time. Jayce's tongue finally pushed inside and Viktor felt so warm between his legs that another small noise pulled from his throat. A soft gasp and a shaky exhale. Jayce's tongue licked into him, growing more excited with each passing. Viktor watched as Jayce buried his nose in the soft hair above his clit. His eyes had slipped shut and his fingers rubbed soft circles on Viktor's thighs. Viktor could feel Jayce's beard brushing against his legs. His hips twitched and he lifted them as his walls squeezed around his tongue. "Hah... mm..." Viktor finally laid himself back completely. Jayce hesitated and Viktor shivered. "A-Ask m-me, Jayce."

"Can I hold your hips?" Jayce's words were soft against the most sensitive part of him and Viktor felt fresh heat flush his face. 

"C-Carefully." He responded, his voice straining. Jayce's hands moved over his thighs to gently hold his hips as he started to lick into him again. It was much more energetic this time, Viktor crying out as Jayce held him still. The feeling was maddening and his thighs twitched. He could feel his tongue and he whined, turning his head to the side and hurting it against the grass. It was already reaching the peak and he had no way to warn Jayce before he felt a rush through his body. "AH!!" 

"Oh!" Jayce's yelp of surprise made Viktor cover his face as his slick gushed from his folds. Viktor felt a little humiliated, instantly apologizing.

"S-Sorry... Sorry, I should have w-warned you. I did not realize how close..." Viktor trailed off as he felt Jayce gingerly licking up the slick, cleaning him. They were soft kitten licks again and Viktor's toes curled a little. "Mm." Jayce finally pulled back, panting. He pulled his hands back and there was soft splashing as he washed his face. He seemed to need a moment to catch his breath, his eyes slipping shut. Viktor watched him, slowly and shakily closing his legs before lowering them to the side. Jayce glanced over at him and he paused before giving a warm smile. 

"You look like a satisfied cat." He teased, Viktor blinking in surprise before chuckling a little. Jayce sighed before raising a hand up to his mouth. "...You know that you taste sweet. Something similar to... butterscotch." He was murmuring to himself by the end and Viktor blinked in surprise. He sat up, raising a brow. 

"What is butterscotch?" He asked curiously. Jayce paused and looked over at him. 

"You've never had butterscotch?? It's candy. I'll bring you some next time. It's one of my favorites." Jayce insisted, moving over to him with a smile. Viktor was surprised by that before laughing softly. 

"You think I taste like one of your favorite candies? Would it not be a little too coincidental?" Viktor teased playfully, reaching out and gently cupping Jayce's cheeks. Jayce seemed to turn another shade of red as Viktor slid his hands further to rest on his neck, just under his ears. He couldn't seem to take his eyes off of him, but he reached out again towards Viktor's midsection. He hesitated and Viktor took notice, his eyes softening. "...Go ahead." Jayce wrapped his arms around Viktor's waist, pulling him forward and resting his head against his chest. Viktor hoped his heart wasn't beating too loudly. 

"I wouldn't call coincidence. I associate my favorite things with one another." Jayce admitted softly. "My brain just... mixes them up a little like that." Viktor paused and glanced down at him. 

"Favorite things?" He questioned softly. Jayce's ears went dark red and he turned his head away. Viktor's eyes softened. "...What are we doing to each other, Jayce?" 

"I don't know." Jayce admitted quietly. "But... I like it. I've gotten better about rushing into things as I got older, but this is... the first time I've done it and someone's kept up with me." Jayce glanced up at him with a weak smile. "I might even dare to say that you’re the one leading." Viktor paused and his shoulders tensed a little. Jayce seemed to notice and shook his head. "No, no, that's not bad! I... I like it. I like being able to be the passenger this time. Rushing into something with someone else. Except I'm the one along for the ride. It's new, but I'm... I'm all for it." Viktor felt a rush of warmth through his chest. 

"I have never been one to lead. Hearing it aloud is a little frightening, but... if you truly don't mind being pulled along into my little world... I'd be happy to have you." Viktor said softly, his fingers stroking along Jayce's bearded jaw. "I just... I have to be cautious about this. I trust you, I do. But not as much as I'd like to and it's by no fault of your own." 

"That's okay. That's okay... I'll try to prove myself, but even if you can't bring yourself to trust me 100%, I'll understand. When you... When you have yourself shattered like that, I imagine it's pretty hard to pick up all the pieces. You did a really good job, but I know you want to keep yourself protected. It's okay." Jayce assured him, looking him over quietly. Viktor relaxed a little. Jayce smiled as he looked him over. "...I have to get you to try butterscotch." 

"Still on that?" Viktor asked, breaking out into soft laughter.

"It's so good, Viktor! You have to try it! I can't believe you haven't had it! Singed seems exactly like the kind of old man to just have a random bowl of it somewhere in his tent!" Jayce insisted. "I mean, they might be poison, but still!" That only made Viktor laugh harder. 

"What does that mean, Jayce??" 

Chapter Text

Viktor didn't even need the poem. The moment he opened his eyes in his space, a silhouette shimmered into sight next to him. His child self leaned against his side quietly, picking at the dark purple grass. He stared over at them in surprise. "You are... already here?" He asked softly. His child self glanced up at him before averting their eyes again. 

Something entered his space.

Quickly. 

Viktor startled a little, but his child self quickly reached out and held onto his sleeve. He was in Jayce's fire station hoodie again. Through the trees, he could hear loud giggling. "Woah, hey! Slow down! I'm not as fast as you! Hey, my leg!" The older Jayce's voice was rushed and breathless as a child continued to giggle, small footsteps heard rushing towards them as the thunder rolled calmly overhead. As he expected, Jayce's child self burst out of the tree line, tripping over himself before bursting out laughing. "Woah, are you okay??" Jayce came out, his slower leg clearly shaking. He knelt next to his child self, who was splayed out on the ground. Viktor's child self suddenly let out a little giggle and Jayce glanced over. He paused as he saw both of them, his eyes softening. 

Viktor's child self grunted weakly as they pushed themselves to their feet, staggering a little. Viktor passed them the driftwood cane and they nodded in thanks. They were still dressed in the asymmetrical Zaunite clothes of the other world, which Viktor was sure just looked like stitched together rags to Jayce. Viktor's child self limped over to Jayce's child self, who lit up as he saw them. He stretched up his hands and Viktor's child self laughed softly. He made a small noise of effort as he knelt down next to him. "H-Hey." Jayce spoke gently to Viktor's child self, the lanky kid jumping and hugging their cane against themself. "It's okay. Hey, it's okay." Jayce assured them gently. He offered his hand, but Viktor's child self only held his cane closer to themself. "Alright, that's okay." He pulled his hand back. 

Jayce pushed himself up and made his way over to Viktor, settling down again next to him. He hesitated and reached out, holding his hand next to Viktor's cheek. Viktor paused, glancing at it before leaning his head into it. Jayce smiled. "I think you might like me." He said teasingly. Viktor scoffed softly. Jayce glanced back. "Do we, uh, know why they're here?" 

"They are waiting for me to recite a poem. I'm quite surprised they waited for you." Viktor stated in quiet amusement. Jayce's eyes became bright at the mention of a poem. 

"Which one? My mom loves poetry. I grew up hearing it nearly my whole life." Jayce insisted, Viktor taking note of the present tense verb. 

"It is 'The Road Not Taken' by-" 

"Robert Frost! Mama loves that one. It's not my favorite of his, but it's a nice poem." Jayce finished for him, grinning. Viktor watched him curiously. His eyes drifted past him to the children, who were both staring at Jayce with wide eyes. They'd gone dangerously still with curiosity, ready to pounce. 

"My favorite is 'Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening'. It's short, so I know all the words- Oh!" Jayce grunted as his own child self tackled him with an excited squeal. Viktor's child self wasn't too far behind. They quickly settled next to Jayce with shining eyes as Jayce's child self clung to his arm. 

"Well, I think you may have garnered a tiny audience." Viktor prompted gently. Jayce glanced at the children before laughing softly. He shifted himself to sit in front of them. When Jayce started reciting his poem, it was much more energetic and dramatic than Viktor's solemn repeat of his own. Viktor's shoulders relaxed quietly. Jayce suddenly looked over at him as he started the last verse, his eyes soft and curious, like he was making sure Viktor was listening. Like he wanted Viktor to hear. 

"The woods are lovely, dark, and deep." Jayce spoke softly, Viktor feeling a small warmth in his chest and his face. "But I have promises to keep... and miles to go before I sleep." He turned to the kids and held up his hands dramatically. "And miles to go before I sleep." Instantly, Jayce's child self erupted into clapping, Viktor's child self jumping before giving their own polite little applause. Jayce pretended to give a small bow from his sitting position. He smiled and Viktor watched him. One thing was clear to him as he took note of the glittering children's grins. 

The Arcane liked Jayce Talis. 

It seemed to like him very much, and even more so, now that he'd given it another poem. Jayce offered his hand to Viktor's child self again and the kid finally stretched out their own hand in response. "Hey." Jayce said gently. Viktor's child self seemed to fluster and Jayce jumped as his own child self swatted at his hand, grabbing the other kid in a tight hug and blowing a raspberry at Jayce. He blinked in surprise before laughing. "Oh, come on! Here, how about this?" He offered both of his hands and his child self seemed to like that a little more. He instantly let go of Viktor's child self and grabbed Jayce's hands with both of his own. Viktor's child self only stretched out one hand again. Jayce watched them both warmly, giving a small sigh. 

Viktor finally scoot forward. He hesitated before leaning against Jayce's side, resting his head against his shoulder. "Hey." Jayce said gently, resting his head on Viktor's. 

"...I think I may like you." Viktor said softly, seeming to make Jayce speechless for a moment. When he spoke again, his voice was soft in awe. 

"Y-Yeah... I think I might... feel the same." Jayce murmured quietly. "But I don't want to be too fast for him." Viktor chuckled softly and rested his chin against him, looking up at him.

"He does not seem to mind in the least." Viktor stated softly. Jayce seemed to consider this quietly. "It is fast. And I know that may frighten you, but I am quite certain he does not feel forced by you. Maybe he... shares your worry of pushing too much." Viktor admitted quietly, moving his head so his cheek was resting against his arm. "Do you feel rushed?" 

"Not at all. It feels natural with him. Nice." Jayce said softly, staring up at the lavender clouds. "I've been feeling better. I have more control in my dreams. I feel like there's... finally someone I have that I look forward to seeing that isn't my own mother." Jayce gave a weak laugh. "The rest of the station is nice, but they can be annoying sometimes. He's... He's calm. Playful. I think he might be very smart too. Way smarter than he lets me know about." Jayce sighed quietly. 

"He does not annoy you with his strict touching requirements?" Viktor asked, glancing up. Jayce scoffed. He glanced down at the kids, Viktor's child self leaning against him while they had a thumb war with Jayce's child self. Jayce glanced back at him. 

"Are you kidding?? The fact he's let me this close... That close, especially." His ears tinted red. "I can't mess this up and I will make sure he feels safe with me if it's the last thing I do. I want him to." Jayce said softly. "He has a whole community behind him, but maybe I'm someone he looks forward to seeing too. Someone other than his own father." Jayce said, chuckling weakly. Viktor watched him. 

"I think you might be." He offered calmly. Jayce snorted and rolled his eyes with a smile.

"Well, of course I'd think that." He replied, gently butting his head against the top of Viktor's. Viktor jumped before laughing a little himself. Jayce watched him. "Can I hug you?" Viktor was surprised Jayce would still ask permission, even if he thought he was in his head. The perplexed look on his face made Jayce pause. "I'll always treat him the same. Dream or not. You've flinched away before. I can practice my gentleness here... probably." Jayce said, smiling awkwardly. 

"...You may hug me." Viktor said, blinking in surprise as Jayce's warm arms wrapped around him, pulling Viktor against his chest. Viktor sank into him. There were little footsteps and Viktor blinked as he felt two small weights leaning against them. Jayce started to laugh a little. The two kids were leaning against them. Viktor's child self was keeping to themself, but Jayce's child self seemed eager to join their hug. Viktor let out a small sigh of relief. 

Thank the gods, the Arcane liked Jayce Talis. 

Chapter Text

When the time came to return to the other world, Viktor had a job to do. 

Singed had walked him to the pond and Viktor had bid him goodbye before both of them jumped. Rio had surprisingly followed and Singed lit up. "She's never followed us this far before!" He whispered to Viktor in excitement. He'd already given him his letter to give to Heimerdinger. Viktor laughed quietly, watching as Singed backed away with a nod of his head. Viktor nodded back and blinked. 

"Welcome back, my boy!" Heimerdinger was already scampering up to him in the lab, his arms tucked behind his back as his ears flicked cheerfully. Viktor pulled the letter from his pocket and Heimerdinger lit up as he handed it down to him. "Thank you very much. Are you hungry? The-" 

"Professor, we must see Jayce Talis immediately." Viktor interrupted firmly. Heimerdinger stared at him in shock before opening his mouth, but Viktor shook his head. "I have reason to believe he is being beaten and assaulted in his holding cell. I cannot stand for it, Professor." He took his cane as Heimerdinger passed it to him. 

"What makes you so certain??" Heimerdinger asked, his ears lowering a little. 

"He appeared in my space." The words made the Yordle freeze as he stared at him. "He appeared in my space with a broken arm and he continuously jerked around as if h-he were being k-kicked and when I l-lifted his head, h-his jaw instinctively f-fell slack, a-as if-" Viktor inhaled shakily, visibly upset now and Heimerdinger quickly tucked the letter away, moving forward and holding up his hands. 

"Breathe! Breathe, Viktor! Deep breaths!" He insisted. Viktor nodded and squeezed his eyes shut. He took a few deep breaths. "W-We will go to the holding cells. I will have Marcus accompany us." Viktor paused and opened his eyes, looking at him in confusion. 

"Who is Marcus?" He asked, a little taken back. Heimerdinger stared at him before his ears lowered instantly. Viktor stared at him and his heart raced a little faster. "Something happened. What h-happened, Professor?" 

"A Shimmer Incident, my boy. Down in Zaun. Sheriff Grayson went to go do her rounds in the Lanes..." Heimerdinger trailed off and Viktor's heart sank. Shimmer?? Shimmer? His hands tightened on his cane and he held a hand up to his mouth as he whispered for him again. The Yordle only looked more dismayed as he watched him. "She... She is no longer with us, I'm afraid." Viktor's shoulders sank and he buried his face against his shoulder. "Viktor! Viktor, it is no fault of your own! I doubt either of us could have done something." Heimerdinger tried to reassure him. That wasn't it. Viktor knew he wouldn't have been able to do anything, but to know that someone he looked to as a comfort had died while he was out flirting and happy and comfortable. He inhaled softly, unable to even face Heimerdinger.

Singed's presence in this world remained, and a troublesome one at that. It was him who'd created the Shimmer drug. It allowed for temporary, yet extraordinary physical abilities, but it was addictive and the early prototypes warped people into monsters. It had been put into hibernation once Singed no longer worked on it, but it seemed, after decades, someone had brought it out of dormancy. "Why would someone bring back Shimmer?? It has been in stasis for years. What use could it yield besides creating horrors??" Viktor whispered in shock. He paused. "Singed would be... appalled someone has touched his work." 

"I don't know, Viktor. But right now, focus. Jayce Talis?" Heimerdinger prompted. Viktor startled and nodded, quickly putting his dress shoes on. He followed the Yordle, his eyes wide. He was in a loose collared shirt and black pants, but he felt it wasn't out of place enough for him to have to change. Once they reached the front of the Academy, Viktor paused. He'd seen this man around, but he'd never spoken to him. Who he assumed to be Marcus was speaking with the two Enforcers that were always stationed at the front of the Academy for student protection. "Sheriff! A word, please!" Heimerdinger called out. 

Marcus startled and turned to face them. His eyes landed on Viktor and widened a little. Viktor stopped, scrunching up his shoulders just a little as the other man approached. They'd already named a new Sheriff? Shouldn't there be a mourning period for Grayson? Viktor didn't quite know how to feel as Marcus stopped in front of them. "You must be the Intersect. My name is Marcus and I'll be the acting Sheriff through Grayson's succession." Marcus held out his hand. Viktor hesitated before reaching out and shaking it politely. "I understand you and her were close. I'm sorry for your loss." Viktor nodded quietly. 

"My name is Viktor. Please do not just refer to me as the Intersect. I feel it... dehumanizing." Viktor explained politely. He swore there was a flash of exasperation in Marcus' eyes, but the other only nodded. 

"Of course, sir." He turned back to Heimerdinger. "There is something you needed from me, Professor?" 

"We must see the student in holding. Viktor believes he may be injured and, if so, I'll be requiring an investigation into why." The Yordle stated matter-of-factly. "He was not to be harmed." Marcus paused and turned to Viktor with a raised brow.

"...Do you believe my men have done something to him?" He asked, seeming a bit taken back. Viktor's hands tightened on his staff again. 

"Unfortunately, I am certain. I am sorry to say that I believe at least one of them has violated the code to protect and I fear one of them has also... v-violated..." Viktor's voice shook a little and Marcus furrowed his brow. 

"With all due respect, these are good men." He stated firmly. 

"And the man that violated me was a good man as well." Viktor's immediate response was barely a whisper and Marcus stopped, seeming shocked as he stared at him. Viktor felt a hand on his leg and looked down at Heimerdinger, who seemed dismayed.

"Easy, my boy. Let's get this figured out." The Yordle insisted gently. Viktor nodded, adding an apology to Marcus as he moved past him. He carefully made his way down the steps and Heimerdinger scampered forward. Marcus ended up walking faster than them, having to slow down and wait. He seemed like he was trying to keep pace with Heimerdinger's smaller steps than he was with Viktor's limp. Viktor sighed weakly through his nose as the station came into view. Marcus led them up some more steps and into the building. Other Enforcers stood at attention to greet the Council Head and his Intersect assistant. Viktor could barely even look at them. On the way down to the holding cells, Viktor's knee was finally starting to weaken, giving small trembles. This amount of stairs was agitating it. 

He landed in the hallway below and moved forward. The Enforcers outside of Jayce's cell instantly stood at attention. "Jayce!" Viktor called out before he could stop himself. 

"...V-Viktor?? Y-You're back?" Jayce's voice responded shakily and Viktor watched Heimerdinger stop in complete shock, his ears up. Jayce sounded awful, yes, but mostly because the way he greeted Viktor was much more casual. It was not that of a first or second meeting between strangers. The guards on either side of the door had unreadable expressions on their faces. Viktor quickly moved forward to the bars, reaching out and holding onto them. Inside, Jayce was sitting up in the ratty bed, his eyes wide. His arm was still tucked against his body and Viktor's eyes widened. 

"Jayce, your arm is still broken! Good gods, you need a cast a-and a sling!! You have to be treated!" Viktor exclaimed. Jayce barely managed to push himself up and the stumble he gave made Viktor go pale. That stumble had not originated from his legs. It had been top-heavy. "Could someone let me inside, please??" Viktor turned to look at everyone desperately. One of the guards didn't even look at him, unhooking the key ring from his belt. Jayce flinched as the door was unlocked, seeming to immediately back up. Viktor's shoulders sank. "Jayce?" He moved into the cell, approaching the larger man. 

Jayce could barely seem to focus on him. Viktor jumped in shock as Jayce moved forward and slumped over, wrapping him in a loose, one-armed hug as he leaned his head against his shoulder. Viktor was completely frozen for a moment before shaking himself out of it. He knew this Jayce had issues with asking for permission to touch, but it also seemed like something was very wrong. Viktor quickly reached up, hesitating before sliding his hand into the back of Jayce's hair. "Mm!" Jayce made a shaky noise of pain as Viktor felt something wet and he held up his stained hand.

"Professor, he has a broken arm and I think he may have a concussion. His head is bleeding!" Viktor exclaimed in shock. He heard Heimerdinger order one of the Enforcers to go fetch a medical officer. Viktor led Jayce back to the bed and sat him down, his hands on his shoulders. He accidentally left a bloody stain on Jayce's shoulder, but he didn't seem to notice at all.

"...I didn't think you would actually come see me." Jayce admitted quietly as he stared up at him. "I, uh, I thought you would only want to meet in the... the space that you can... control." Viktor paused, staring at him.

"N-No, I... I may not react well to your grabbing and your constant approaching, but... I know you do not do so with malicious intent. It makes it bearable so I... find no need to restrain you." Viktor explained softly. Jayce seemed surprised and he finally gave a bout of laughter. His laugh was different than the older Jayce's and it caught Viktor off-guard. This Jayce snorted when he laughed. It was... endearing. He did seem like he had to stop after a moment, squeezing his eyes shut and holding a hand up to his head with another pained noise. He could hear soft talking and footsteps. He stiffened, but he heard Heimerdinger speak. 

"You must warn Viktor if you are to approach behind him, Sheriff!" It was rare that Heimerdinger sounded so harsh, but he heard Marcus apologize and turned to look back. Marcus stood with the guard, gesturing to him. 

"My officer says Talis had fallen the night before, but insisted he was fine. And he had no knowledge of his broken arm because he hadn't said anything." Marcus reported to him. Viktor's eyes instantly locked onto the other man, who stared back at him. Viktor's skin prickled and he felt Jayce's fingers curl into the back of his shirt before his forehead shakily pressed against his back. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and the first word escaped him in a hiss. 

"If he had fallen, perhaps the guard could answer me this. Jayce is about six feet and two inches tall. If he were to fall, that dark spot on the wall behind you should be anywhere that height, but it is not. It remains at his full height, perhaps even an inch higher. With just how much he is bleeding-" Viktor held up his vaguely stained hand. "-this means the impact was substantial, which means there was force. With this much, the dark spot should be below six foot. But it is not." Viktor's voice shook. "If he were to stumble backwards, he could not hurt himself to this degree without that spot being further down." Viktor kept his gaze sharp and hot. "Unless he was purposefully shoved into the wall by an outside force." The guard had gone completely stiff and Viktor heard Jayce let out a weak breath behind him, something just bordering on a whimper. Viktor's heart was racing. "Professor." 

"Sheriff... I believe an investigation may be in order." Heimerdinger stated, his brows raised promptingly. The guard turned, but Heimerdinger spoke. "And you. You will be staying." Behind Viktor, Jayce hiccuped softly. 

Chapter Text

It turned out that holding onto Viktor may have been the only thing really holding Jayce together for the next thirty minutes. It was the only way they'd gotten him to the medical carriage that would take him to the clinic. Heimerdinger caught Viktor once Jayce had climbed into the sterile, white-sheeted inside. "Are you sure you feel safe traveling with him, my boy?" The Yordle's ears were twitching unhappily and Viktor stared at him before nodding. He winced as he lowered himself down to the carriage step.

"He is not well, Professor. He needs to be holding onto something and, unfortunately, I am the only one he can recognize in this state. I am unsure if he actually has any friends within the Academy. If he does, they are not here." Viktor stated quietly. "I do not believe he would try to hurt me in any way, especially in his state." He assured him. Heimerdinger gave a weak sigh before nodding. 

"Once I wrap up here, I will make my way to the clinic." He said firmly. Viktor paused. 

"You have a Council Meeting in an hour, I saw it on your schedule." Viktor stated scoldingly. Heimerdinger paused before glancing aside. 

"Oh? That little thing? Preposterous, I'm sure-" 

"Professor." 

Heimerdinger hesitated again and Viktor gave him a flat look. "You are sure, Viktor?" He asked quietly, his hands folded tightly behind him as he kept his ears low. Viktor nodded. "Alright. Be mindful. Be careful." Viktor nodded, standing back up before turning and climbing into the carriage. He shut the door and rapped his fist against the front. The carriage began to move and Jayce had laid out on the elevated cot inside. His head was staining the white pillow beneath him red. Viktor was sat on the seat next to the cot, being at shoulder height with the bed. His hands rested on his cane. 

"The Professor will have the guards combed through, surely. Once you are able to identify them, there will surely be consequences for laying hands on you." Viktor tried to assure him. Jayce nodded weakly. His hand was already kneading the side of the cot and he curled his fingers into the white cloth covering it. 

"H-How's your leg?" Jayce's question was soft and startling, Viktor glancing up at him in surprise. 

"Pardon? Jayce, you are severely injured, I promise my leg is the least of our worries." Viktor stated, a little taken back. Jayce had turned his head to look at him. His eyes were a golden brown, as opposed to the other Jayce's bronzed gold. He furrowed his brow. 

"Lot of stairs to get down to the, uh, the holding cells. I know you were walking fine in that pond place, but you have a limp out here. That many stairs couldn't have been good for you." Jayce still sounded worried anyway, ignoring the fact that he was the one bleeding from his head. Viktor stared at him in disbelief and Jayce gave a weak smile. "I know I'm in bad shape. Can't I still worry about you?" The question struck something in Viktor and he scrunched up his shoulders a little, glancing away. 

"...It is mostly my knee and it affects the rest of my leg. It is sore and slightly twitchy, but nothing I haven't handled before." Viktor said softly, glancing back at him. Jayce's worry seemed to soften and he nodded. When they reached the clinic, the doors were opened and nurses were there to take Jayce to a room. One of them helped Viktor out of the carriage as they opened up the doors wide enough to pull the makeshift bed out. Wheels whirred out of the bottom once they all got him on the ground and they pushed him away into the building. Viktor watched him go, his hands tight on his cane. The nurse with him finally led him over to another door. He was left in an empty waiting room, thanking the nurse. 

The receptionist didn't even spare him a glance and Viktor sighed. Outside of the Academy and the Council Hall, he was nobody. The regular citizens didn't know. He took a seat on one of the couches, closing his eyes. After what felt like an hour or so, he startled as there was a commotion outside, arguing heard just beyond the doors. Even the receptionist had looked up. Viktor had admittedly started to doze off, but he was wide awake now. The doors opened and two Enforcers led in a young girl. She was a teenager and obviously from a wealthy family, just based on her clothes alone. She was arguing with a nurse, demanding to see 'him'. Viktor paused. This girl looked familiar and he finally put it together. This must've been Councilor Cassandra Kiramman's daughter. He didn't know her name. 

He watched as the nurse tried to calm her down, saying that they'd just brought him in and they barely even knew what was wrong with him yet. The girl seemed furious until her eyes landed on Viktor and she froze up. She'd been angrily tugging at the sleeves of her coat until now, but her hands went still. She scoffed at the nurse, seeming to end the conversation, much to the nurse's relief. The girl turned and moved over to Viktor. He jumped as she sat on the couch right next to him. "...Hello." He said, a little taken back. 

"What are you doing about??" The girl questioned, her eyes wide. Viktor was speechless for a moment, furrowing his brow. 

"My apologies, but I do not believe we've met." He said after a moment. The girl blinked before holding out her hand. 

"You know my mother. She's shown me you before. She says you're quite rare." The girl insisted. Viktor instantly grimaced at that and the girl pulled back her hand quickly once she saw his expression. "That... That is a compliment." 

"I do not... quite take being referred to like I am, eh, a cut of meat as a compliment. I am more than just the elites' show pony." Viktor replied firmly. The girl seemed confused by that. Her hands had moved to start kneading the couch on either side of her and Viktor took notice. Jayce had done the same thing in the carriage. He wondered who'd picked it up from who. "You know Jayce?" 

"He's my brother!" The girl instantly blurted out, her eyes wide. 

"They're not related." One of the Enforcers spoke flatly and the girl shot her a look. 

"The Kiramman family were his patrons, yes. I know that much, but I was not aware he was so close with you." Viktor said in surprise. 

"He's been with me my whole life. Mother took him under our roof when I was little because he'd built a small, functioning airship out of scraps and balloons. She said she saw potential in his inventions and in him." The girl stated. "And she almost kicked him out a few times because he was being 'a bad influence' but I think we both turned out quite fine. She said he was going to spread his scatter-brain to me." She was talking a lot and quite fast. Viktor could tell that they'd been raised alongside each other. He held up a hand gently and the girl paused. 

"I think proper introductions are in order before you start to tell me things like that. I suppose you already know my name?" Viktor asked, raising a brow. The girl nodded before instantly thrusting out her hand again. He did accept it this time, shaking her hand politely.

"My name is Caitlyn." The girl said earnestly. Viktor nodded. 

"It is nice to meet you, Miss Caitlyn." Viktor pulled his hand back and Caitlyn stared at him, fidgeting. "...You may continue." She certainly did.

"When the explosion happened, Mother decided that was the last straw. I didn't think she would actually do it. But he went to trial and he even went to the holding cells! He's good! He's a good man!" Caitlyn insisted. "I wasn't even allowed to attend the trial!" Viktor could see why. "I was out to one of my lessons when I saw him be taken out of the medical taxi. You got out with him. What happened to him?? The nurses wouldn't tell me." 

"The nurses did not know yet, Miss Caitlyn." Viktor stated in a chiding tone. Caitlyn fiddled with her fingers anxiously as she stared at him. Viktor sighed. "He was beaten in the holding cells. An investigation is ongoing into the Enforcers that have stood guard there." The two Enforcers accompanying Caitlyn glanced at one another. "He made the mistake of appearing to threaten me at his trial." Caitlyn instantly covered her mouth before groaning and putting her head in her hands. "Professor Heimerdinger and I will see to it that whoever has done this will face justice. He was not to be harmed." Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. Caitlyn stretched her hands out and he quickly held up his own. "Please don't." He said gently. She quickly withdrew herself again. 

They were both so touch-sensitive. Viktor could see the relation, clear as day. Both loud and boisterous. Touchy, fidgety, and talkative. Good gods, no wonder Cassandra's hair was grey if she was feeling with these two. "He spoke of you so very often without knowing who you were. You're like his idol. It was very difficult for me not to just tell him, but Mother said we weren't allowed to. He always spoke of how he admired Intersects and how difficult it must be for them. He wanted to help because he couldn't imagine leaving anyone behind anywhere." Viktor stared at her before sighing and looking away. Of course he couldn't. Jayce Talis had far too big of a heart for that. 

"Do you think he was disappointed in a crippled Zaunite being the revered Intersect?" Viktor asked in slight amusement. Caitlyn paused before shaking her head quickly. 

"No, no. I think he was amazed and I think it would've made him want to help even more. He's always loved taking care of people. He loves to tend to things and make sure they know they are loved. Not even the day before the explosion, we'd just gotten in trouble for building a massive pillow fort in my foyer and sleeping inside it! I thought Mother was going to pass out when he saw me splayed out sideways on top of him." Caitlyn smiled to herself. Viktor watched her. He felt like it was the same in both worlds. Jayce liked helping others. He liked taking care of people. He liked showing love and care. Viktor glanced aside, his cheeks hot. 

"Is there a reason behind his... overzealous nature?" Viktor asked, glancing over at the girl again. She certainly didn't seem shy about sharing information. 

"Is he? I never noticed such a thing." 

Well, that was enough of an answer for him. Viktor laughed softly, keeping himself leaned against the side of the couch. Caitlyn smiled, seeming relaxed by his laughter, even if she was confused why he was doing it. "Jayce has a broken arm and a head wound. They will likely need to reset his bone and they will need to tend to his head very carefully. I expect maybe another hour or two before he is allowed visitors." Viktor told her softly. "I believe I will be working with Jayce in regards to his research, so I thank you for giving me a little bit of insight into him."

"Oh, I can tell you more!" Caitlyn said, smiling. Viktor paused.

"It is not necessary, Miss Caitlyn-" 

"The other day, I happened to recall-" 

Viktor sighed. 

Chapter Text

Viktor waited in front of Jayce's room quietly, though he'd been smiling nearly the entire two hours he'd been outside. He'd allowed Caitlyn to go inside first. He had yet to see if this was a mistake or not. All he'd heard was delighted, yet loud talking that nearly bordered on yelling. If it weren't for the long interjections of laughter, he would've thought them to be fighting. However, another riotous bout of Jayce's snorting laughter pierced the wall. There was the occasional thumping around and the telltale sound of Jayce getting up from his bed when he definitely shouldn't have been. Viktor wondered why the doctors hadn't put this man on any sedatives. He felt like it was quite the oversight on their part. When the Enforcers finally came back out, they looked like exhausted parents at their wit's end. Caitlyn came scampering out, her hair now a mess and her eyes bright. Her nicely ironed clothes were now completely wrinkled up. Her smile was huge and she waved goodbye to Jayce excitedly before seeing Viktor. "Thank you! You can see him now! I won!" She announced proudly. 

"You did not!" Jayce yelled out from inside the room. Caitlyn snickered and gave a polite curtsy to Viktor before moving down the hall with the two very, very tired-looking Enforcers. Viktor had to admit that he was curious about what they'd been yelling and crashing around about. He glanced up before making his way over. He slipped through the doorway, tipping his head. Jayce was still letting out tiny snorts to himself as he sat on the edge of his very messy hospital bed. It had been knocked askew. His head was bandaged, the cloth wrapping over the back and around his forehead. His hospital gown was scruffy. He glanced over and froze up, his smile dropping and his ears turning red. "Oh... oh, uh... were you... were you... out there the whole time??" He asked in embarrassment. Viktor blinked in surprise. 

"I do hope you were not tossing things around." Viktor managed teasingly, though he was looking at his casted arm in worry. Jayce paused and glanced down at it himself before shaking his head. 

"No, Cait and I just like to roughhouse. We were mostly just telling jokes and laughing. There was a spot next to him on the bed, likely where Caitlyn had been lying with him. "She called me obtuse so I rolled over and laid on top of her."

"You could have crushed the poor girl!" Viktor exclaimed scoldingly, Jayce snorting as he rolled his eyes. 

"Please, she's handled so much worse than me. She's training to be an Enforcer, you know." Jayce sighed, turning his head away as Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. "Hey, she, uh, she promised me that she'll take out any of the bad ones when she's powerful enough." Jayce glanced over. "Her parents paid Sheriff Grayson to personally train her on long range weaponry first so she'd have that under her belt before starting close combat and short-range weapons. They spent a lot of time together and I think she... she might be coping." Viktor's shoulders sank a little. "She doesn't usually fidget that much." Jayce glanced up before looking down again. "Hey, can you, uh.. c-can..." 

Viktor paused, waiting for him to be able to gather his words. He imagined a head injury combined with his usual rapid fire speaking may not have been ideal. Jayce finally took a deep breath and squeezed his eyes shut, shaking his hand around his head before sighing. "Could you sit next to me? Please? I just need... someone." Jayce managed quietly, his fingers on his sling. "I... I can cover up with the blanket if me just being in the gown makes you uncomfortable." He offered quickly. Viktor was momentarily surprised before raising a brow. 

"...Are you planning to hold onto me?" He asked hesitantly. Jayce paused and glanced aside. 

"...Would asking to hold your hand be too much...?" Jayce asked after a moment. Viktor blinked before shaking his head. 

"No, I suppose not. As long as they remain in front of me." Viktor moved over and Jayce physically perked up, scooting to the side. He waited for Viktor to sit before hesitantly reaching out to his hand. "Jayce." Viktor's tone was both amused and scolding. Instantly, he jumped and pulled his hand back, curling it on his thigh. Viktor watched him worriedly. "Let me approach, please. I cannot... allow myself to become frightened here. I would feel terrible." Jayce nodded, apologizing quietly. Viktor inhaled shakily before reaching out. His slender fingers settled on Jayce's hand. "Turn it over, please." 

His request was soft and Jayce paused before slowly turning his hand over so his palm would face up. He was heard audibly swallowing as Viktor's traced his fingers over his palm before sliding his fingers up. He intertwined them with Jayce's and, almost instantly, Jayce's fingers closed down, holding his hand tightly. "That's... even better than I was thinking. I... That's really... nice." He sounded surprised as he looked down at their hands, his ears red again. Viktor gave a small smile. 

"I figured with how naturally touchy you are, a closer type of hand-holding would soothe you." Viktor murmured, watching as Jayce instantly nodded, a smile spreading across his own face. 

"U-Uh, Cait said you told her that you were going to be research partners with me. Is that true??" Jayce asked in hushed excitement. Without even feeling it, Viktor could tell Jayce's heart was racing. He was so excited about it. "You'll really help me?" 

"Miss Caitlyn said you like to help people. Tend to them. Care for them." Viktor said quietly, turning his head away. 

"I-I do. She didn't, uh..." Jayce trailed off. "I'm not... I'm not weird about Intersects, I don't know what she told you-" 

"Jayce, you are most definitely weird about Intersects. Just please try to keep it tapered down around me." Viktor said, glancing back at him. Jayce's face went red as he nodded, his hand giving Viktor's an awkward squeeze. "I just ask you never approach me from behind without announcing yourself and to never grab me from behind. If I appear in a bad state, you must ask to touch me." Viktor explained softly. Jayce stared at him, seeming to be listening intently before giving a small nod. "If you can respect that much for me, I would very much like to help you in pursuing your research. There are people in both worlds that I do not wish to leave behind. If I could... erase having to make that choice, I would greatly appreciate it." 

"O-Of course! And, uh... your leg." Jayce looked down at it in dismay. "Is it... It's still sore?" His voice was worried and Viktor felt a small blossom of warmth in his chest again. Viktor gave a small shrug. "...Do you only know that poem or do you know other ones?" Viktor paused. 

"I believe I may be learning a new one, actually. Same author. I only remember the last verse." Viktor admitted. He only remembered it because the older Jayce had looked at him while he said it. This Jayce stared at him curiously and Viktor let out a soft chuckle. "The woods are lovely, dark, and deep. But I have promises to keep. And miles to go before I sleep." Viktor faltered a little as that same warm look suddenly appeared in this Jayce's eyes as his older counterpart. "A-And miles to go before I sleep." Jayce stared at him and he fidgeted. Viktor sighed in slight exasperation. "What is it?" 

"Your shoulder. C-Can I... lean or...?" Jayce sounded awkward as he glanced aside. Viktor chuckled after a moment of surprise before gesturing to it with his free hand, having propped his cane against his leg. Jayce laid his head against his shoulder with a weak sigh. After a moment of silence, he spoke again. "So we're research partners now, right?" He sounded a little eager and Viktor paused before smiling. 

"Right." He said quietly, glancing at him. 

"Okay, because I get my parts from this shop in Zaun and I think they might be scamming me." Jayce admitted. Viktor was momentarily surprised before laughing. They definitely were. "I think the boy who usually sells them to me is an Intersect too." Viktor's smile dropped. What?

"What?" He echoed aloud, turning to him with wide eyes. Jayce paused and glanced up at him. 

"Oh, I guess I... I never wrote that in the journal. There's at least one Intersect down in Zaun. I do think that boy is the... the second one." Jayce explained quietly. 

"...What??" 

Chapter Text

"...Oh." 

"Oh?" Viktor wasn't sure how to feel about that as he turned to look at Jayce. He'd brought the other to his apartment, Jayce having nothing but two duffel bags. One held his clothes and the other held anything he'd been able to salvage from his apartment that he'd wanted to take with him. After Jayce's reveal that there were likely two more Intersects in Zaun, Viktor had sent for Heimerdinger, but Jayce had long passed out by the time the Yordle arrived. After a quick discussion, it had been decided that Jayce would stay in Viktor's apartment, where a closer eye could be kept on him. That had been three days ago and they were already halfway through the week before Viktor would return to the other world. Heimerdinger had been too caught up in the ongoing investigation to properly discuss anything with him and Jayce.

Jayce had, once again, conveniently lost his sling. His arm was still in a cast, but his head had healed enough that he didn't need it bandaged anymore. "No, uh, nothing bad. I just... I thought you would have a fancier place. Being... the elites' favorite and all." Jayce mumbled awkwardly, glancing aside as he shut the door. Viktor blinked. 

"I could have a fancier place, but I have no need for it. Especially when I am only here half the time." Viktor added, leaning on his cane. Jayce nodded, seeming to understand that. "First bedroom is yours. The bathroom is the second and my bedroom is at the end of the hall." Viktor informed him, Jayce nodding. He glanced around again before moving forward past Viktor and disappearing into the bedroom. Viktor gave a quiet sigh. He knew he would essentially be leaving this place to Jayce every other week, but he hoped the other didn't abuse that. Well, he didn't see how he would. Jayce had told him he didn't have any close friends at the Academy. No one besides Caitlyn and Viktor had visited him at the clinic. 

Viktor let his mind drift. He wondered if the older Jayce was lonely too. He'd said he wasn't exactly close with anyone. Did he even have Caitlyn? Viktor furrowed his brow, his hands tightening on his cane. He wondered how he was doing, his shoulders sunken. "Hey, uh-" Viktor jumped in shock, turning to look at Jayce, who held up his hands as he stood in the hallway. "Sorry." Viktor shook his head. 

"It's alright. I was distracted." Viktor said softly. 

"Who were you thinking about?" It sounded genuine and curious, but Viktor glanced up at him, more startled than anything. How could Jayce tell he was thinking about someone?? He opened his mouth, but he hesitated before giving a small shrug and turning his head away. He wasn't sure how good of an idea of was to divulge too much about his tumultuous relationship with Jayce's other world counterpart. Jayce watched him quietly before glancing aside. "You, uh... You have someone in that other world, don't you? Like... Like a lover?" 

"We have not established anything." Viktor spoke a little faster than he meant to, Jayce blinking at him in surprise. Viktor hesitated before turning his head away again. He could sense Jayce's burning question, and he knew the other wouldn't ask it. Viktor didn't mind answering it. "I am afraid to." Viktor admitted, his hands tightening on his cane. "I fear I will become overwhelmed if what we have is given a name." He squeezed his eyes shut. "I fear I may be a horrible person for wanting it to remain unlabeled." 

"No. No, you aren't." Jayce spoke insistently, seeming taken back. "You're allowed to be scared of things. Especially things that have... hurt you before." He sounded dismayed and Viktor glanced at him. Jayce seemed to jump a little. "S-Sorry, this isn't... this isn't my place to be speaking on anything. I shouldn't have... I shouldn't have said anything in the first place." His ears were red with embarassment and Viktor's gaze softened. 

"I appreciate your words, Jayce." He assured him quietly. Jayce glanced up uncertainly and Viktor nodded. Jayce seemed to relax at the extra assurance. He fiddled with his hands, lowering them before quickly folding them behind him. He was using his thumb to rub his bracelet, Viktor could tell. Jayce had done it more times than he could count during their clinic talks. Jayce glanced up at him before quickly looking away again. "What is it, Jayce?" Viktor prompted. 

"Can I hold you??" Jayce blurted out, making Viktor stare at him in shock. That red shade that had been confined to Jayce's ears finally seemed to spread to the rest of his face. "A-A hug! Like a hug. Not..." He buried his face in his hands. "Sorry." Viktor hesitated. He could see what the professors meant when they would always complain about Jayce yelling out answers in their classes. Viktor remained quiet before the soft tapping of his cane started, him making his way over to Jayce. Jayce jumped and quickly held his hands behind himself again as he looked down at Viktor. 

"May I ask why the sudden request?" Viktor questioned, a brow raised as he stopped in front of him. Jayce paused before speaking in a quiet, embarrassed voice. 

"You just seemed like you needed it." Viktor stiffened up, staring at Jayce with wide eyes. Jayce's gaze was soft, but anxious. "Can I do it?" 

"...Gently." Viktor said after a moment. Jayce lit up. Within moments, Viktor was pulled against a warm chest by warm arms. He could tell Jace was trying to be careful with the arm that was still in that thick cast. The hug almost felt the same, yet less comforting and more eager. The hug finally relaxed a little and Jayce's arms slipped into lopsided holds. Viktor gave a small sigh against him. He finally leaned into him and Jayce was felt perking up a little, clearly delighted at Viktor's reaction. "Perhaps we could sit-" He barely finished his sentence before Jayce was suddenly guiding them both to the floor and they were left sitting right there in the hallway. "Oh." Viktor paused as he felt Jayce rest his head on top of his. 

He was warm. Just like the other one. Viktor set down his cane carefully before yelping as Jayce scoot over to lean them both against the wall. "Jayce, stop just moving me around!" Viktor stated scoldingly. Jayce apologized quietly, resting his head against the wall. Viktor paused before doing the same with a sigh. "Are you tired?" Jayce gave a small shrug, glancing to the side. Viktor shifted so his back was against the wall instead. Jayce suddenly reached out and Viktor startled as Jayce pulled him closer, burying his face against his shoulder. "What did I just say??" 

"Sorry... I'm sorry..." Jayce barely whispered it and Viktor stared at him. Jayce sounded so desperate to just be touching him in some regard. "I need to know you won't just disappear without warning. I need to hold onto you until it's time for you to go again." Viktor paused. Jayce sounded broken. He sounded broken when he said those things and Viktor didn't understand why. 

"Jayce." He spoke gently and the other man froze up. "My Intersection is scheduled. We know when I am to leave, right down to the minute. I am not going to suddenly disappear." Jayce looked up at him. He was hurting, Viktor could see it in his eyes. Why? "...Why are you afraid, Jayce?" He asked softly. 

"...I don't know what to do." Jayce admitted after a moment. "I don't know the schedule yet. I just know that you'll disappear and that I have to trust that you'll return. Are we... friends?" Jayce sounded confused and uncertain. Viktor blinked in surprise. 

"I suppose we are." He replied, not wanting Jayce to feel like he was overstepping when Viktor didn't mind at all. Jayce gave a weak laugh. 

"Then you're my first friend. I don't know what to do. I don't know what I'm allowed to do or when I'll be too much. Is this too much already?" Jayce asked, his brow furrowed. "I'm told I'm too much a lot." Viktor paused before laying his hand on his thigh, his palm facing up. 

"Give me your hand." He prompted gently. Jayce did so without hesitation and relaxed a little as Viktor held it. "Just remember what I said before-"

"Never approach you from behind without saying something. Never grab you from behind ever. And if... you seem overwhelmed, I have to ask to touch you at all." Jayce said, glancing up at him for confirmation. Viktor blinked before smiling and nodding. "Yeah, I got it then." Jayce buried his head back against Viktor's shoulder. "I got it." Viktor leaned back against the wall. He assumed he would have to get used to being close to Jayce like this. If he was already close with the other one, maybe this one could help him with his slight touch aversion. He already felt better initiating the contact. "I'm sorry I need to... hold onto you like this." 

Viktor paused and glanced over at him. "Jayce, you can handle sleeping by yourself, I hope." He saw his ears turn red again. 

"I can." Jayce said, clearly flustered. Viktor nodded, a smile pulling at his lips. 

"Just checking." He said, turning his head away. Jayce gave a weak scoff. For such a large man, he kept himself curled into Viktor. He needed touch like he needed air, from the looks of it. Viktor really wasn't sure he was the right person for it, but honestly, it didn't seem like he had a choice either. He paused before leaning his head against the top of Jayce's. That seemed to pop some kind of bubble and Jayce's body instantly relaxed, his shoulders sinking and a soft breath of relief leaving him. Viktor blinked. Jayce had been waiting for him to reciprocate. Not initiate. He understood now. 

They both sat on the floor of the hallway in warm, comfortable silence. Viktor wished they'd at least been on the couch, but the soft, rhythmic breaths of his floor partner suggested he wasn't going anywhere anytime soon. 

Chapter Text

That night, Viktor woke up screaming. He woke up screaming and he had to bury himself into his pillows in order to finally muffle himself. He had to choke the breath out of himself in order to finally quiet down. He was left gasping and panting, his clothes sticking to his body with sweat. Tears ran down his face and he was left trembling. Soft hiccups escaped him and he could still feel the flames licking at his skin, leaving behind sizzling trails of flesh. Viktor jerked backwards as his door was thrown open, Jayce's eyes wide and his hair completely messy. He was leaned against the doorway, panting as well. "V-Viktor?? Viktor, what happened??" He asked, his eyes wide. "Y-You were screaming." He took a step forward. 

"DON'T." The word ripped its way from Viktor's throat desperately as tears erupted down his face. Jayce instantly froze in place, his body stiff. "Don't. Don't. Don't come in here. Don't come near me. Don't. You're going to burn. You will burn, you will burn, you will burn." Viktor held his head and curled up, burying his face in his knees as he broke down into crying again. He didn't know what was happening. He didn't know if he was burning. Where was the fire?? Where was it hiding?? Viktor hiccuped shakily. 

"Viktor!" Jayce's voice startled him backwards and he nearly fell out of his bed as he jerked up into a sitting position. He was shaking. Badly. Jayce held up his good hand, clearly anxious. He started to take another step forward before inching back again. "C-Can I get closer??" 

"No." Viktor managed shakily. Jayce paused, clearly not expecting the answer before giving a small nod. He hesitated again before slowly lowering himself down to sit right there on the floor. "What are you doing?? G-Go b-back to bed." 

"You shouldn't be alone right now. What if you hurt yourself o-or you try to leave? What if you... you disappear and you...?" Jayce's shoulders sank and Viktor paused as he stared at him. 

"J-Jayce, I would not do that-"

"I don't know that!" Jayce exclaimed, weakly holding onto his bracelet. "The world is full of possibilities and a-anything could happen at any time in any place! I... I just want to help." Jayce sounded defeated. Viktor stared at him. He was starting to calm down and the thought of fire was being pushed to the back of his mind. He swallowed quietly, holding his shirt out a little so he didn't feel as sweaty. Jayce seemed to notice and he glanced around the room. "Do you need another shirt?? I can bring you one."  Viktor nodded and Jayce pushed himself to his feet. Viktor started to tell him where they were before Jayce suddenly disappeared out the door, leaving him stunned. 

"...Jayce?" He called out uncertainly, unsure of what the other man was doing. When Jayce returned, he was holding a sleep shirt. It would easily hang slightly off one of Viktor's shoulders with how big it was and Viktor felt his face burn. "Oh, Jayce, that's yours." He said, his eyes wide. Jayce stared at him before glancing down at it, then up at him again. 

"Yeah!" He said, clearly not seeing a problem at all. "I figured you could use a looser shirt." Viktor stared at him. Jayce took a step forward again before quickly retreating. "Can I, uh..." Viktor hesitated before giving a small nod. Jayce made his way over to the bed and offered him the shirt. He quickly turned so his back was to Viktor. Viktor quickly changed himself and he felt his face go hot as the shirt did, indeed, keep slipping off his shoulder. He cast the other one aside for now and Jayce jumped a little. "Hey, uh, Viktor?" He sounded uncertain and worried. "Could I, uh... Could I sleep with you tonight??" His ears went red. "L-Like sleeping! Just sleeping, not the other thing." Viktor paused.

"Jayce, I promise I am fine now. It was just a nightmare." Viktor said quietly, his fingers curling into his blankets. "I have them quite often." 

"I-I just don't think leaving you alone would be a good idea. I can sleep on the floor." Jayce said, turning to look back at him with sunken shoulders. When Viktor met his eyes, he could see the real reasons. Jayce didn't want to be alone. He was scared. Viktor had scared him and, if he stayed, Viktor wouldn't scare him anymore. Viktor paused. "Please?" Jayce asked after another moment. "R-Really, I can sleep on the floor, I just want to be in the same room..." 

"I'm not making you sleep on the floor, Jayce." Viktor said softly, frowning. He hesitated before scooting backwards in his bed, enough to free up one side. He had a queen-sized bed. Jayce started to move before instantly stopping himself and standing stiff again. He was waiting. "You can lay down." Jayce climbed into the bed, favoring his broken arm. "Jayce, I really wish you had not gotten rid of the sling." 

"I lost it!" Jayce protested as he laid down. Viktor gave him a flat look and Jayce quickly averted his eyes. Viktor sighed before laying himself down again as well. Jayce fidgeted and Viktor paused. He was lying on his back and Jayce seemed like he was a stomach sleeper. Viktor moved one of his arms. 

"Jayce." His voice was gentle and prompting. Jayce noticed his propped up hand and hesitated, though he'd already started reaching towards it. Viktor gave him an encouraging nod. He felt heat rush to his cheeks as Jayce's large fingers ghosted up his forearm and palm. Jayce carefully intertwined their fingers, relaxing into the pillows a little with shining eyes. "That is as much as I can allow right now." Viktor said softly. 

"M-More than enough. It's more than enough, thank you." Jayce whispered quickly. He had his casted arm wrapped up in the blankets. "Viktor, that place... Is that somewhere over there?" Viktor paused and glanced over. 

"Yes. It is a little area close to my home. I go there to bathe and I often go to relax. It is my safe place. The place I always reappear when I return to that world." Viktor responded softly. He glanced over at Jayce quietly. "Do you have a safe place here, Jayce?" Jayce paused and his shoulders sank after a moment. 

"I do, but I may have just lost it." He admitted quietly. Viktor furrowed his brow. "Before I came here, my father made a name for us. He had little forges in a few places. There's a Talis Forge in downtown Piltover, but I doubt the Kirammans will continue paying for it. I have his picture there. My mother's too." Jayce gave a weakened sigh. Viktor watched him and he gently used his thumb to tap Jayce's knuckle. 

"You are friends with the Intersect. The favorite among the elites." Viktor reminded him gently. "I will see to it your forge is paid for and kept." He promised softly, Jayce's eyes widening. 

"You will?? Y-You really will??" Jayce sputtered in disbelief. Viktor nodded. 

"I am on good terms with many elites, who are willing to fund anything I wish in exchange for my good word. If we are able to erase the Intersect cutoff, as you say, I will be permanently revered and you will always have that place to return to." Viktor said softly, glancing at him. He paused. "Oh, Jayce..." Jayce startled, seeming to realize he'd started crying. He buried his face against the pillow, his ears red. Viktor watched him. He really didn't know how he felt about being idolized for the rest of his life. For the... Viktor's shoulders sank as it hit him. Right. Singed and him had yet to figure that out. Hopefully, he could get Jayce set up here. 

"Viktor, I'm sorry I grabbed you like that when we met." Jayce finally spoke again, turning his head to face him. Viktor paused, having thought Jayce had already apologized for that. However, when he met his eyes, he could tell that this was something that had been eating Jayce alive. "I didn't mean to make you scream like that or freak you out so badly." Jayce's fingers trembled against Viktor's hand. 

"Jayce, I already forgave you for that. You did not know." Viktor insisted. 

"Me not knowing didn't lessen how it scared you." Jayce stated weakly. Viktor supposed he was right about that. "And then I even made you freak out in your safe place. The one place you’re supposed to... feel safe." Jayce's voice was tight with guilt. "Because I couldn't keep my fucking hands to myself." He sounded disappointed and angry, but not with Viktor. "Really, I'm... I'm sorry." Viktor felt a warmth in his chest as he watched him. 

"Jayce, you were beaten and assaulted because of me. If you think I'm still upset about you being too excited to meet me, you are mistaken." Viktor replied softly, rubbing his thumb over his knuckle. Jayce's shoulders scrunched up a little. "Even tonight, you were terrified because of me. I feel I must apologize for being the one to continue scaring you." 

"...They didn't hurt me that much." 

"Your throat and jaw were internally bruised." Viktor stated. He felt Jayce's hand tighten. "You are only able to consume soft foods." He turned his head to look at him. "Jayce, I'm sorry. I did not think they would stoop so low. I knew you had made enemies by mentioning me, but I didn't think..." Viktor's voice became strangled and he raised his other hand to his face, inhaling softly. Jayce's fingers twitched anxiously in his. "Will you be okay here by yourself when I switch over again?" 

"I think so." Jayce answered softly. "And it... it really doesn't bother me that much. The bruising doesn't... it doesn't hurt that much." Viktor's shoulders sank. "Hey, uh, could Caitlyn come over for a day or two while you're gone? Can we build a fortress?" Jayce asked hopefully, switching the subject. Viktor blinked in surprise as he glanced over at him. 

"And where would you build this supposed fortress?" He asked, raising a brow. 

"My room! And maybe a little bit into the hallway, based on... what we make." Jayce admitted, a weak, cheeky grin on his face. Viktor watched him before chuckling quietly. 

"I suppose if you both were to do that, it would only be polite of me to show you where all the blankets and pillows are kept, would it not?" Viktor stated, leaning his head back. He almost laughed again at how Jayce's face lit up. 

"I mean, yes, it would be incredibly polite of you." Jayce said excitedly, Viktor smiling in response. "And you'd want to see it? Should we keep it up until you come back?" 

"Mm." Viktor nodded. "But, if you are going to be using all of my blankets and pillows, I expect the structure I see to be something so incredible that I am left speechless." He stated matter-of-factly. 

"Done!" Jayce said confidently, his grin mischievous. "Done and done!" 

Chapter Text

There was no thunder. 

Viktor froze up. His space was silent. It shouldn't have been silent. There should've been a slight rustling of leaves. The distant rolling of thunder. But there was nothing but his own deafening footsteps and eerie silence. What was... happening? Viktor hesitated before making his way over to the pond. He sat down on the bank, his body being nothing more than that white silhouette from the shoulders down again. His fingers curled into the dark purple grass as he stared across the water at frozen stars. Everything felt stagnant. Still. 

Viktor inhaled sharply as he heard soft footsteps approaching. He glanced up as his child self quickly dropped in front of him, crawling over and burying themselves against him. They were scared. What were they scared of? "What is it??" He asked, holding his smaller self close. He shifted and pulled them sideways into his lap so the lanky child could hide. Viktor scanned through the treeline, his brow furrowed. His child self was trembling. Viktor paused as he heard that first drip. It was followed by another. And another. And another. It was raining. Viktor startled as the rain suddenly poured down and he flinched, holding his child self closer. 

The rain came down in torrents and the only thought that came to Viktor's mind was that it wasn't quiet anymore. It was cold, dark, and wet. Viktor furrowed his brow. He could feel the other Jayce's hoodie forming on his body, the hood already pulled up. He kept his child self as sheltered as he could. "T-Two roads diverged in a yellow wood-" He sputtered softly, feeling the rain lighten just a little around them. "And sorry I could not travel b-both. And be one traveler, long I stood, and looked down one as far as I could. To where it bent in the undergrowth." The poem seemed to be doing something, the rain feeling much less harsh around him. 

Something entered his space. 

Viktor startled and lifted his head ever so slightly, trying to peer through the rain. "Then took the other, as just as fair, and having perhaps the better claim." He whispered softly, rubbing his child self's shoulder. "Because it was grassy and wanted wear; though as for that the passing there had worn them really about the same." He could hear someone rushing through the trees. He could see glowing hair. "And both that morning equally lay, in leaves no step had trodden black." Viktor's heart was racing and he nearly choked as the older Jayce appeared. "Oh, I kept the first for another day." What was wrong?? 

The older Jayce looked panicked and like he'd been crying. He couldn't reach him. There was some kind of barrier to keep him from entering the clearing, but Viktor hadn't done that. He glanced down at his child self in confusion. They had yet to unbury their face from his chest. "Yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back." He had to finish the poem once he started it. The Arcane always became saddened or frustrated when he didn't. He could tell Jayce was yelling out for him, but he couldn't hear him. 

"I shall be telling this with a sigh, somewhere ages and ages hence." He murmured, continuing to soothe his child self. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I... I took the one less traveled by." The rain was lessening. "And that has made all the difference." His child self seemed to relax and gave a weak nod. They still looked frightened, but much less so. "Has something happened in the other world??" His child self nodded and Viktor tensed up. He finally looked up at Jayce again, who was staring at him desperately, his glowing hair and his clothes soaked. "May I go to him?" 

His child self sniffled before getting up. Viktor hesitated before taking off Jayce's fire station hoodie. He helped his child self into it and pulled the hood up for them. It was laughably big on them, but his child self did seem comforted by it. Viktor turned and made his way towards Jayce, who had watched the exchange with soft, pained eyes. He finally focused on Viktor and Viktor hesitated before reaching out. To his shock, the barrier worked for him too and he pressed his hand against it, absolutely taken back. Why was he trapped here?? Why could no one get in or out?? Jayce seemed stunned by that, reaching up to place his hand on the other side. Viktor couldn't even feel its warmth and his shoulders sank. 

Jayce tried to get his attention. Viktor could only make out his name on his lips, nothing else coming through or making any sense. Jayce seemed panicked and desperate, only becoming more defeated-looking when Viktor could only stare at him in confusion. To his alarm, Jayce finally broke down crying and he slid to his knees. Viktor quickly lowered himself to the ground as well, his eyes wide. "What's happened?? What's happened?" He turned back and called out to his child self with a trembling voice. They only pulled the hoodie tighter around themself. "Please. Please tell me what's happened." Viktor begged them. 

His child self hesitated before slowly coming over. They were awkward, not having their cane and only able to take a stumbling step forward every three seconds. They finally reached up and he pulled them into another hug. They seemed to glance up at Jayce, who had his head buried in his hand. Their eyes slowly moved to Viktor. He blinked for a moment and, suddenly, they were not surrounded by rain. 

They were surrounded by fire. 

Viktor's last few nights in this world were dreamless. They were completely and utterly dreamless. No safe space. No Arcane. No older Jayce. It had sent him in a state of distress and he'd locked himself in his room. He knew the younger Jayce was outside the door. He knew he was waiting for him. It had been three more days and the most progress they'd made was discussing where to get supplies for equipment and getting a lab in the Academy for their work. It had all been discussed through the closed door. Viktor felt like a mess. He was going to switch over again tomorrow and find out what was going on. He was already terrified. 

He'd told Jayce about it and the other man had done his best to assure him that it was nothing he couldn't handle. Yes, something had likely happened, but whatever it was, Viktor had already survived one of the worst things to happen. At least, in Jayce's opinion. Right then, he'd been listening to Jayce move around outside. Something smelled good in the apartment and Viktor hesitated. He hadn't eaten in three days. He hadn't bathed in three days. He hadn't left his room. He could hear Jayce's footsteps hesitantly making their way back to his door. "Viktor? I made breakfast. Can you open the door now?" Jayce asked, sounding strangely muted. 

Viktor had been noticing the effect his self-isolation was having on someone like Jayce, who needed physical attention and contact to thrive. He sounded sluggish and upset all the time. Anxious. Viktor stared at the door quietly. And that was the thing, wasn't it? Viktor's door wasn't locked. Jayce could've come in at any time, but he hadn't. He hadn't gone against Viktor's wishes at all, even with how clearly desperate he was. Viktor hesitated before finally scooping up his cane. He smelled and the clothes did him no favors, Jayce's shirt still hanging off his shoulder. Was he ready to see his face again? All he remembered was how absolutely devastated the older Jayce had been. Viktor got to his feet, having been leaning against his bed.

Finally, he took his few silent, staggered steps forward and opened the door. Jayce's eyes went wide in shock and it looked like he had to physically stop himself from dropping the plates. He clearly hadn't expected Viktor to actually open up. Viktor paused. Jayce had stubble growing in and bags under his eyes. Had he not bathed either?? Viktor hesitated before glancing down at the plates. Jayce had made seasoned omelettes, though the lopsided seasoning was indicative of his lesser-abled arm. He'd made some toast, melted butter in the center. He'd even cut up an apple, though the pieces were not at all even. Viktor didn't mind it. He shakily reached out and took one of the plates. 

Jayce hesitated before moving into the room with his own plate, following Viktor's lead quietly as he lowered himself to the floor and started to eat. He was starving. He ate the apple slices quietly, his shoulders sunken. "Hey... maybe a bath would be good." Jayce suggested to him gently. Viktor paused and glanced up at him before giving a small nod. 

"...Same could be said for you." He replied. "You are starting to become scruffy." At that, Jayce jumped and held his hand up to his jaw before his ears went red. 

"Oh, yeah, I..." He seemed embarrassed. "I am, yeah." Jayce glanced up as Viktor finished his plate. His eyes softened and he pushed his own over to him. 

"J-Jayce, that is your food." Viktor stated, shaking his head. He paused as that warmth appeared again. How was either Jayce capable of such a look? Jayce raised his brow and pushed the plate closer. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He reached out and picked up the toast, pulling the softest, buttery part from the middle before holding it up to Jayce's lips. Jayce's ears went red again, but he met Viktor's eyes and opened his mouth. Viktor felt a rush of heat sweep over his face as Jayce's lips brushed his fingers. He seemed to follow Viktor's touch just for a moment, desperate for any kind of contact. Jayce hesitated before starting to chew quietly, glancing away. Viktor finally pulled back his hand. He held them up to his own mouth, cleaning the butter from them with small licks. 

Jayce watched him with wide eyes, seeming speechless. "Uh... th-thank you." He managed, finally looking away. "But you should eat the rest of it." He beckoned to the plate and Viktor nodded, too embarrassed to lift his head again. "After you eat, maybe you could have a bath. You switch over tomorrow and... I'm sure you'd want to be clean for that." He said softly. Viktor nodded, still unable to meet his eyes as his heart raced. "I-I can start it for you." Jayce quickly got up and Viktor watched as he left with hurried steps. 

Once Jayce was gone, his whole face went hot and he buried his head in his hand. What was he doing?? What was he doing? What had he been thinking? He couldn't. Not with both. One firm shake of his head forcibly dismissed the thoughts. Viktor sighed shakily before continuing to eat. He just wanted to know what was happening. He hoped Singed was okay.

Chapter Text

When it was time, Viktor had been talking with Heimerdinger about contingencies nearly the whole morning. He had two letters, one that Heimerdinger had been planning on sending him back with originally and a second one that he'd just penned, practically begging Singed to send back any confirmation with Viktor that he was okay. Viktor was dressed in lighter clothes. Capri-length, brown cargo pants and a loose, tan shirt. He was barefoot. Heimerdinger was already pacing around him anxiously, his ears flicking. Jayce had joined them in the lab, his hands tight behind his back. "And you will work with Jayce about a good startup for our research?" Viktor wanted to confirm with Heimerdinger. The Yordle nodded. 

"Yes, yes, of course! I expect young Talis and I will be seeing each other frequently in your absence. Rest assured, things will have progressed and your research will be ready to start upon your return." Heimerdinger assured him, though he looked back at Jayce with a nod as well. Jayce managed a smile. 

"And the results of the investigation?" Viktor asked firmly. Heimerdinger nodded again. 

"I will share them with you as soon as you return." He told him. Viktor relaxed a little and nodded. 

"Thank you, Professor." He said softly. He glanced up at Jayce and raised his hand, giving a little wave. Jayce paused before giving a small wave back. 

"Be safe, my boy. And... I hope he is, as well-" Heimerdinger's voice cut off and Viktor suddenly couldn't breathe. He broke out in coughing as a thick, dusty cloud filled his lungs. He reached out and his hand pressed against something hard that suddenly crumbled. He flinched and tried to gather his breath as he looked around. Light was filtering in from above and his shoulders sank. He was buried under fallen trees. The pond was buried under fallen, blackened trees. Viktor was speechless for a moment, turning and looking down at the water. It was clouded, having been tainted by the ash and the charred bark falling into it. Viktor broke out in coughing again, lowering himself down onto the bank. 

He was surrounded in a mess of sharp, black branches, all of the trees around the clearing seeming like they'd fallen in. Viktor felt tears already making their way down his face and he could only look up at that one clear spot, where the morning sun was shining through. He didn't hear any fire, so it must've passed, but now he was stuck inside the damage. And his space... His pond... Viktor hugged himself quietly, staring at the cloudy water in upset. His safe space was destroyed. He let out tiny coughs again. It looked like a forest fire have devastated the area. His shoulders scrunched up further as he took in a weak, wheezing breath. Was Singed okay?? Their tents were so close to this place. What about the rest of the encampment?? 

Viktor swallowed shakily. He scoot himself closer to the bank, trying to get a little further under the hole he could see above him. He couldn't even see the clearing behind the mess of branches and charcoal around him. His clothes were already stained and he could feel ashy flakes falling into his shirt, much to his displeasure. Singed would have known it was time for him to return, right?? Right?? Viktor's heart was racing and he hiccuped shakily. He nearly shrieked as there was a crackling sound, followed by a low, raspy meow. "Rio?" He asked, watching as the disheveled cat tugged herself free from the branches. Her fluffy tail was no more, it seeming like the feathery plume had been burned off, leaving behind a skinny, burnt rat tail. "Oh, Rio..." He offered his hand, Rio erupting in very loud, plaintive meows. 

One of her ears was charred and several whiskers were gone, but she practically smashed her face into his palm, her meows only becoming muffled for a moment. She wasn't usually so affectionate and Viktor could tell she was just scared. He wondered if she'd been stuck in the branches. She let out another loud set of caterwauling meows, butting herself against him with raspy purrs. Viktor kept his hand offered, knowing any attempt to actually approach her instead would likely get him swatted. Her paws were completely stained and he couldn't even see the lighter flecks in her tortoiseshell coat because of the ash. He broke out in coughing again, it bordering on choking this time. 

Rio was climbing all over his legs now and Viktor felt more tears in his eyes. He finally reached up and rubbed her cheek. "How long have you been in here?? Rio, it's okay." Viktor spoke gently, his own voice growing raspy. "I hope I did not scare you by appearing here." Rio only let out a yowl in response, tipping her head to the side for more scratches. Viktor's heart hurt. He paused as he heard footsteps, Rio's purr instantly going quiet as her ears shot up and she turned with wide eyes. 

"-e checked this area four times. There's nothing here. Listen to me, I don't know what that old crackhead told you-" 

The approaching voice of an irritated older man was cut off as Viktor heard Jayce's voice snap at him. "That man is not a crackhead and if he says his son is here, then he's here! He said he'd be back at this spot at this time! I'm not arguing with you about this again, Chief. Either you can help me look or you can leave." He sounded furious and Viktor had never heard that tone on him before. He hesitated before calling out.

"Jayce!!" He broke out in coughing, Rio hunching herself down with wide eyes and flat ears. 

"VIKTOR!!" Jayce instantly yelled out in response, sounding both shocked and beyond relieved. "V-Viktor, holy shit!! Where are you?!" He could hear crunching, likely from Jayce approaching and tugging at the charred branches. 

"I-I am just in front of the pond!" Viktor called out before having to take in a wheezing breath. 

"How in the godforsaken fuck did we miss him??" The older man sounded shocked, a second pair of hands soon heard rattling the mess of branches he was stuck beneath. Rio had gone completely stiff, tucked against his stomach. "To the left, Talis, put your back into it!" 

"Yes, sir!" The whole structure suddenly rattled as Jayce grunted and there was a crunching noise. Viktor startled as one of the trunks suddenly splintered nearby him and he scoot himself back, carefully holding Rio, who only let out a small grumble of protest. Her claws were drawing blood in his arm, but he wondered if how fast his heart was beating told the cat that he was scared too. "Fuck!" Jayce swore. "Chief!" 

"Use this." The older man was heard ordering. Viktor flinched as the trunk was suddenly broken open in a mess of ash and splinters, the head of an axe poking through. He started coughing again, feeling more things falling in his shirt. It only made him unhappier. His feet were stained black. He hoped he looked like enough of a mess to play off that he'd been in here the whole time. A few more swings finally garnered a hole large enough for Jayce to lean his body in. His eyes were wide and he was in his fire coat, wearing thick yellow gloves. 

"Viktor! Fuck, hey!" Jayce managed, seeming like he was about to cry just from looking at him. He paused. "Oh, man, is that Rio??" The cat let out a long meow and Jayce gave a weak, distressed laugh. "Oh my god, I thought you were..." He really did seem like he was going to cry. 

"Get it together, Talis. Can he make it to you??" The older man demanded. Viktor hesitated. He flinched before moving himself forward, the awkward angle causing his knee to scream in protest. 

"Chief, he has a cat." Jayce reported. The older man swore before shuffling was heard. 

"Fine, give it here." He grumbled. Jayce reached down and Viktor held Rio up to him, flinching as the cat started to wail in displeasure, claws out. Jayce didn't mind with his thick coat and gloves. Rio had cut open Viktor's hand and arm though. "Oh, feisty thing! A proper lady, are you?" The older man was heard joking to the hissing animal. Jayce finally reached down again. 

"Can you stand?? I can get you if you can stand." Jayce insisted, his eyes wide. Viktor swallowed before nodding. The cuts on his arm and hand were already stinging and puffing up. Viktor pushed himself up and he glanced back at the cloudy water of his pond again with sunken shoulders. He looked back up at Jayce with teary eyes and Jayce stared back in dismay. "I know. I know, I'm sorry about your pond, Viktor. But please let me get you out of here." He begged. Viktor nodded before moving forward, letting Jayce grab onto his arms. "Can you boost yourself up on anything?" Viktor glanced around. He braced himself before jumping with his good leg. "Oh!" Jayce barely managed to pull him up, Viktor flinching at the scratches and stabs against his body and clothes. 

Viktor was finally pulled out into fresh air and he took a breath before starting to break out in wheezy coughing again. "You're okay! You’re okay, hey!" Jayce carried him down the fallen tree trunks before settling in the clearing below, laying him down. Viktor stared around shakily. All of the trees were dead. They were dead and blackened. He hiccuped shakily. "I know. I know, I'm sorry." Jayce's voice broke a little, seeing how devastated Viktor was at the sight of his destroyed home. "Here. Here." Jayce dug through a nearby bag and pulled out a flask, unscrewing it and holding it out. Viktor gratefully took a few sips of water. 

"Ow, son of a gun!" That older man's voice sounded and Viktor glanced over. A stout, massive man was holding Rio, who had very much decided she didn't like him. He was in a fireman's coat, though the stripes certainly didn't flatter him. Rio had stuck her paw under one of his gloves to claw his wrist. 

"Y-You can l-let her go." Viktor spoke shakily before gasping as the man dropped Rio right from that height, causing her claws to hook for a moment and her to yowl before unsticking herself and taking off into the treeline. Viktor coughed, tears in his eyes just from the pure horror, his heart racing. The older man seemed irritated as he scoffed. "You could have seriously hurt her!!" He blurted out tearfully. 

"Son, she just clawed me like you would not believe!" The older man snapped. He seemed to notice Viktor's arm and his brow furrowed. "Well, maybe you would." Viktor's arm looked nasty and Jayce swore softly. "How long were you under there?" Viktor shot the man a tearful look, his eyes moving back down to the ground. The older man finally gave a heavy sigh, putting his head in his hand. "I'm sorry about being rough with her, alright?" He softened his voice and Viktor finally looked over at him again. "I am Fire Chief Benson of the Piltover Fire Department. You can call me Benzo." The man offered. The way he was squinting suggested that he usually wore glasses. 

"...How long has it been?" Viktor asked weakly, flinching as Jayce touched a medical wipe to the end of the first cut. He apologized gently. Benzo gave a heavy sigh. 

"Been about four days. A fire swept through the back parts of Zaun. Lots of tents left unsalvageable." He replied, rubbing his head. Viktor's shoulders sank. 

"The rest of the encampment? They are alright?" He asked, his voice tight with dismay. Benzo nodded, his eyes softening. Viktor let out a weak breath before flinching again. "Ugh!" Jayce apologized again, having pressed the medical wipe down. 

"That old man of yours is alive. Singed." Benzo told him, Viktor instantly shutting his eyes in relief. "I think he'll be happy to see you too, boy." Viktor hiccuped shakily. "All the displaced Zaunites have been taken into the rest of the encampment. It's a good community, just as I remember. Your father is staying with a friend of mine." Viktor paused and glanced up at him. 

"Very few make it out of the tent city of Zaun. You have managed this?" Viktor asked weakly. Benzo nodded. 

"That friend of mine helped. What I'm trying to say, is that I understand your worries, young man. Rest assured, Zaun is still as connected a community as ever. You'll still have a place to sleep." Benzo assured him. "So will your father." Viktor felt a weakened warmth in his chest as he nodded. "...Never been a fan of the animals, unfortunately." Viktor scoffed. 

"She will remember that. You have made an enemy of her." He commented quietly. Benzo waved his hand dismissively. Viktor finally swallowed and pulled his arm away from Jayce. It felt tender.

"Viktor, I'm not done yet-"

"I would like to leave this place." Viktor said quietly. "Please, Jayce." Jayce was quiet for a moment before Viktor heard him packing everything up. 

"Yeah... yeah, of course. Let's get out of here." 

Chapter Text

It turned out that Rio had run all the way back to Singed. Viktor could see her peeking out of the tent behind him. Singed had him in his arms in a second, Viktor quickly hugging him back. One of Singed's arms shook, wrapped in bandages. "I knew something had happened. My space went quiet. The Arcane was frightened." Viktor whispered to him. Singed gave a shaking sigh. Viktor's leg hurt and he pulled back from him before flinching. He had to sit down, holding his knee and inhaling shakily. It had taken them an hour to trek back from the pond and it was only because Jayce had carried him on his back halfway through. Benzo had moved forward to meet with Vander, the two large men casting looks Viktor's way as they spoke. Viktor assumed this was his friend. 

"The Professor was extremely worried." Viktor fished both letters from his pocket, handing them up to Singed. Singed's eyes softened as he saw the scrawled front of the newer letter. 

"Ah, he should know it would take more than a few flames to kill me." Singed said, scoffing as he shook his head. Viktor managed a weak smile. Singed glanced up. "I believe he would like your attention." He prompted, Viktor pausing and turned his head to look back to Jayce. Jayce was watching him worriedly, but when Viktor's eyes met his, he perked up a little. Around them, the rest of the encampment seemed absolutely delighted to see that he was alive, people waving and whispering to him excitedly that they were happy to see him. Viktor smiled weakly at them. 

"Jayce." Viktor called out to him again and the older man made his way over, finally kneeling next to him. He set the bag down and started to dig through it, taking out the medical kit again. "I'm sorry. I must have panicked you." He said weakly. Jayce paused and glanced up at him. He was opening a roll of medicated bandages, having taken off his thick gloves in order to do so.

"...I thought you were dead. I was so fucking worried." Jayce whispered. "I had the most haunting dream. I couldn't get into the pond and you were trapped inside while everything was burning. You couldn't hear me and I was trying so hard to warn you about the fire." Jayce's voice became strangled as his hands shook. It was becoming harder for him to open the roll and Viktor paused. Jayce had tears welling in his eyes. He inhaled shakily and Viktor quickly reached out, putting his hand on Jayce's. Jayce startled and glanced up at him. "S-Sorry." 

Viktor stared at him before tugging at his hand. Jayce seemed confused, but he let Viktor pull his hand to his cheek. Jayce's shoulders sank as Viktor tipped his head into his hand. Jayce dropped the bandages and he pulled Viktor into a hug, Viktor jumping a little. He paused before his arms slid around Jayce in response. "Oh my god..." Jayce muttered in a strangled voice.  Viktor's heart sank and he leaned into him. Viktor could Benzo and Vander, both men having paused. They looked like they were secretly smoking, a cigarette being held by each of them. However, he could see what their minds were piecing together. Viktor blinked before closing his eyes and nuzzling into the side of Jayce's neck. 

"I-I am okay, Jayce. The, eh, the cat scratches were my biggest injury." Viktor tried to assure him, his voice soft. Jayce nodded. He finally pulled back and Viktor gave a small smile. He reached up, wiping a tear from Jayce's cheek and smudging it with grey instead. He gave a tiny laugh. "Perhaps I should have washed my hands." 

"D-Did you just fingerpaint me?" Jayce asked in a weak, playful voice. Viktor snickered a little. "You did." Jayce's shoulders slumped dramatically. Viktor watched as he scooped up the bandages. "Can we get your cat scratches taken care of? Rio's claws are far from clean, I'm sure." Viktor nodded, holding out his arm. He paused, noticing Benzo had moved away from Vander and over to Singed. He seemed to be discussing something with the skinny man. Viktor shivered at the slight moistness of the bandages, but the soothing feeling that stretched through the cuts more than made up for it. Jayce tied it off carefully before starting to work on cleaning Viktor's fingers.

"Talis!" Benzo called out and both of them glanced back. Benzo was calling Jayce over as he stood with Singed and Jayce sighed. He pressed the rag to Viktor's fingers. 

"Just hold it there, okay? I'll be right back." He murmured. Viktor nodded, keeping his fist closed to hold it as Jayce got up with a wince, moving around him. Like some kind of clockwork rotation, someone else was suddenly on his other side, settling to the ground. However, the noises Vander's body made caused Viktor to look at him in slight alarm. 

Vander snorted a little. "Comes with older territory." He gestured to himself. He took a puff of his cigarette, blowing the smoke away from Viktor. Viktor still wrinkled his nose a little. "Mind if I ask something a little heavy, Viktor?" Viktor paused and glanced up at him. He shook his head and Vander nodded. "Did you ever plan on leaving Zaun?" Viktor stopped for a moment, stunned as he stared at him. Leaving Zaun?? Him? If he'd Frosted to the other side, then yes, but... 

"I was considering it." Viktor answered honestly, his brow furrowed. "But it would be difficult. Very few get out of Zaun." Vander glanced over his shoulder before looking back down at him, his eyes sympathetic. 

"How would you like to?" He asked. Viktor went completely stiff after processing his question. He could only stare at Vander in stunned disbelief. Vander seemed to understand, taking another puff of his cigarette. "You're right. Very few get the opportunity to leave Zaun. But that's because very few want to leave Zaun." Vander added. "But for those who do, I've been more than capable of sending them on their way." Viktor stared at him before furrowing his brow. 

"M-My father, I cannot possibly-" 

"That's being discussed, lad. And from the looks of it, he seems pretty damn eager at the idea of getting you out of here." Vander commented. Viktor didn't have to look to know that he was right. There was nothing Singed would want more for him. "Don't look so serious. Just because you'd be leaving Zaun doesn't mean you’re never allowed back." Vander snorted. "We aren't banishing you, boy." Viktor managed a weak smile at that. "You would be able to come and see your father as much as you'd like." Right. Right, he would. "Always best to head somewhere new with no baggage too. Just you, that cane I'm seeing over there, and the clothes on your back." 

Viktor hesitated again. "Where would I even go?" He asked weakly. Vander raised a brow at him. It clicked and Viktor's eyes widened. "Oh, n-no, no, I can't possibly trouble him like that! No, he has already done too much for me-" 

"Lad, based on that display I just saw, that man seems anything but troubled by you." Vander commented gently, blowing out another soft puff of smoke. Viktor felt his face grow hot and he glanced back. Jayce wasn't looking at him, but his ears were so red that Viktor noticed them almost instantly. "The whole opportunity is at your feet. Kind man, willing to take you in. Supportive father wanting you out of here. That fat ass of a Chief willing to find you a job at the station." Viktor glanced up at him in shock and Vander snorted, breaking out into rumbling laughter. 

"What did you say about me, Vander??" Benzo yelled out. He had absolutely no way of hearing what he'd said, but Benzo took one look at Viktor's stunned face and shot a glare at Vander. "You're a dead man, Hound!" 

"Oh, I'm shaking in my boots!" Vander called back, despite not wearing shoes. He turned back to Viktor and softened his voice. "Does this sound like something you'd want, Viktor? Life outside of the tent city of Zaun?" Life outside. Viktor tensed up a little. He glanced off to the side before giving a small nod. Vander glanced up, seeming to nod over his shoulder. "Good lad. But I do need to know one more thing." Viktor's shoulders sank and he looked up at him again. "I know, I know. This is stressful. Can you hold out a little longer?" Vander said gently, Viktor pulling his arms in to hug himself. "The, uh, the fire was a suspected arson attack." Viktor froze up in absolute dismay. "I know." 

Viktor's shoulders trembled. The people in Zaun had so little already, why would someone do that to them?? He must've looked upset because Vander gently nudged him. "I need your head on straight for this, lad." Viktor glanced at him in confusion. "Benzo and I suspect the attacker may have a thing against Zaunites or..." He took another puff of his cigarette and spoke in a much softer voice as his eyes moved to knowingly fix on Viktor. 

"... Or a thing against Intersects." 

Chapter Text

Viktor felt like his heart had stopped as he stared at Vander. The older man didn't look at him with malice or ill intent. One look at Viktor seemed to tell him all he needed. "Benzo! Is your boy home? He might be in good company!" Vander called out. Viktor turned to look back at Benzo, who seemed speechless before nodding. He gestured to Viktor. 

"I don't know, does this young man enjoy poetry?" He called back. Viktor felt his shoulders prickle and he nodded. Benzo nodded as well before smiling. "I'm sure they'll get along swimmingly!" Viktor was a little shaken as he turned back to Vander with wide eyes. Vander finally pinched out his cigarette and sighed. 

"You aren't the first we've had here. If you and the old man weren't so secluded, I'm sure I would've picked up on you much sooner." Vander sounded a little disappointed in himself. "It is best we get you away from Zaun. That firefighter over there knows nothing of Intersects, but Benzo does. He'll take up giving you a secure place to switch from." Vander assured him. "Station is one of the safest places in the city." It was a lot to take in and Viktor's heart was rattling his chest. "Lad." Vander gently pressed his fingers against his shoulder. Viktor looked up at him. "It's a relocation, not an execution. Take some breaths." 

Viktor followed Vander's instructions. In and out. In and out. His hands were tightly clasped in front of him. "Let me go through what's going to happen now, lad. Benzo's boy is like you, so he knows how to handle it. That's why he'll have a job for you at the station." Vander explained gently. "Over the next two days, maybe three, you'll just be living with that firefighter and getting used to his place. After that, Benzo will have you set up at the station and get you somewhere nice and hidden for you to switch back, alright?" Viktor took a moment to catch up, his heart still pounding. He felt like he was going to be sick, but he nodded. "You can come back to see your father anytime." Viktor nodded again. "Deep breaths." 

Viktor followed his instruction again before scrunching his shoulders up as Vander got to his feet with a grunt and a collection of terrifying noises erupting from his body. Vander chuckled at his wide eyes before turning away and moving back to his tent. His girls were peering out of it, the pink-haired teen still seeming wary. "Viktor?" Jayce's voice was quiet as the other man came back around. He inhaled sharply as he sat back down, digging through the bag again. "Hey, uh..." He didn't seem to know how to start the conversation, taking the rag Viktor had been holding. He took out medical wipes, quickly cleaning his fingers and going over them after with the rag. 

"It has been suggested that it is no longer... ideal for me to remain in Zaun." Viktor managed quietly. Jayce glanced up at him before nodding. "Do you think I am in danger, Jayce?" Jayce hesitated and he glanced to the side. 

"Viktor, I don't know if I want to even consider that." Jayce admitted weakly. "Fuck..." Viktor watched him. 

"Will you be taking me home, Jayce?" His question was soft, but it seemed to genuinely fluster Jayce, the older man's face going dark red. His mouth dropped open, but he couldn't seem to say anything at first. Viktor didn't know why, but it drew a laugh from him. It hurt to laugh, but it felt like it was releasing pressure from his core. "Have you gotten my father's blessing?" He teased. 

"Oh my god, Viktor." Jayce mumbled, though a small laugh left him as well through his red face. Viktor chuckled softly. "Uh, before I start making my own jokes back, you... you do want to come live with me?" Jayce asked, glancing at him uncertainly. "Because, I mean... I know we like taking things slow, like, uh, the speed of light-" Jayce paused, a smile pulling at his lips as Viktor let out a short laugh, unable to stop himself. "-but, uh, moving in with some... some guy, not even a month after you've met them is..." He trailed off quietly. Viktor watched him. 

"And what of you, Jayce? Letting some... vagrant into your home, not even a month after you've met them?" Viktor responded softly. Jayce paused, his fingers coming to a stop. He looked up at Viktor in quiet dismay. Viktor managed a soft smile. "That look. That is why I am not afraid." Jayce paused and his face went red again. "Why are you not afraid of me, Jayce? I could secretly be a psychopath." Viktor said, raising a brow. Jayce scoffed and shook his head, continuing to clean his wounds. 

"No... You're not aggressive enough. You'd be a sociopath." Jayce commented calmly. Viktor rolled his eyes. 

"I was not aware we were suddenly going by textbook definition." Viktor replied flatly, Jayce chuckling a little. He finished bandaging his fingers. Viktor pulled them back and looked over his handiwork. He was satisfied with it, but something else bothered him. "Jayce." The older man had started to pack up his things and he looked over at Viktor again. "You did not answer me." He had softened his voice. Jayce hesitated. "You are not afraid of letting a stranger into your home?"

"...You don't feel like a stranger to me." Jayce said softly, glancing up at him. "I don't have..." He looked away, his ears red. "I don't have the thoughts I do about you... about strangers." Viktor paused before his own face went a little hot. Jayce cleared his throat a little, awkwardly continuing to pack up his bag. Viktor swallowed quietly. He did know there was another reason and he could tell Jayce knew he was aware. He furrowed his brow and moved over to him, sitting close. He reached out to the bag so it looked like he was helping. Jayce's shoulders sank and he leaned against him. "...I never would've been afraid." He admitted softly. "If someone broke into my home. If someone I trusted tried to kill me. Nothing I can think of really hurts. I've never been afraid of the outcome." Viktor looked over at him in dismay. "It's been a problem ever since I was a kid. Nearly gave my mother a heart attack every day. I'm just not afraid of... dying."

Viktor's shoulders sank this time and he wondered what it was like to not fear such a thing. Jayce glanced at him. "...You're scared of it. And yet, you still opened up to me, who was a complete stranger. You trusted me and I don't want you to regret it. So maybe I should be afraid of it... for you." Jayce murmured softly as he shut the bag. "Maybe if I can't be afraid of it for me, maybe... for someone else. Because... you would... you would care." Jayce said, his voice having weakened completely. "Right?" 

"Yes." Viktor whispered almost instantly, the speed of the answer making Jayce close his eyes and give a weak smile. He glanced over at him, tears in his eyes again.

"Was, uh, was that too heavy?" Jayce asked, clearly trying to joke. Viktor gave a weak smile.

"I did put quite a bit of pressure on you for needing a reason to stay before. During our first date. Second conversation." Viktor reminded him. Jayce nodded, though his smile still seemed a little strained. "Perhaps I was not the only one." 

"Am I good enough?" Jayce asked, glancing at him. His smile disappeared and Viktor could fully see the anxiety in his expression and hear it in his words.

"...Perhaps even better." Viktor's voice was ever so soft as he reached up, cupping Jayce's bearded jaw. Jayce tipped his head into his hand, his smile returning. "Can we go home?" Jayce's eyes widened and the first tear escaped down his face as he stared at Viktor.

"Y-Yeah. Uh..." He nodded and swallowed, his face and ears reddening again. "Yeah. Let's... Let's go home." 

Chapter Text

Viktor had never seen Singed so relieved for him to be leaving. He'd promised to come back twice a week when he was here and Singed had replied confidently that he would surely have Rio under control in no time. Viktor did not believe him. 

Jayce had given him a blanket to hold onto in the car, promising that they would find something better for Viktor to hold onto whenever he was in the vehicle. Viktor kept his head down during the drive back and his eyes squeezed shut. Even without looking, the drive passed in a blur and Viktor hadn't even realized the car had stopped until Jayce was opening his door. He inhaled sharply, flinching. "Hey. Hey, it's okay. We made it. Both of us are in one piece." Jayce assured him with a smile. Viktor hesitated before slipping himself out of the Jeep carefully. He pulled his cane out before carefully putting the blanket back inside. He wanted it in there for now. "My apartment's on the first floor." Jayce assured him gently. "My mother insisted on it." Viktor hoped he meant for his leg. 

Jayce led him to one of the doors and unlocked it before turning on the lights and holding the door open. Viktor hesitantly moved inside, jumping a little at the feeling of the scratchy carpet beneath his bare feet. He was used to Piltover's softer rugs, not... whatever this was. Viktor heard Jayce shut and lock the door. It was a little place. Enough for one person. Viktor stood in the middle of a massive room that seemed to hold a kitchen on one side and a living room on the other. The door across from him was open, appearing to be a bedroom and another door showed the bathroom connected to it. Viktor stood awkwardly, a little frozen up. He held his cane tightly. He glanced over as Jayce quickly moved into the kitchen, seeming like he was trying to hide the mountain of dishes in the sink. 

"Yeah, so, this is my apartment. I'll be using the pullout couch out here until you’re a little more used to this place." Jayce gestured to the couch in the living room area and Viktor furrowed his brow. 

"...I should be the one using the extra bed, if that is how you wish to sleep." Viktor said, his voice a little tight with confusion. Jayce stared at him, clearly not understanding what he meant. Viktor felt his face go hot, wondering if he was just being stupid. "Jayce, are we...? Are we not sleeping in the same bed??" Viktor asked, his tone completely baffled. Jayce fell silent almost instantly and Viktor hesitated. "I... thought that we were... going to be sharing a bedroom." Viktor hadn't budged from his spot and he tensed up as Jayce moved over to him. 

"Would you be okay if we did that?? I thought it would freak you out." Jayce sounded stunned. Viktor scoffed at him. 

"I seem to remember sleeping quite well next to someone in my tent. Why would I not be able to do so in a bed?" Viktor questioned, raising a brow. Jayce's ears went red and he nodded. He started to apologize, but his breath seemed to catch in his throat as Viktor's hand settled on his chest. He hesitated before moving forward and resting his cheek against him. He could hear Jayce's heart racing and those warm arms finally wrapped around him again. Viktor relaxed a little. "How would I go about a bath here? There is... ash... everywhere." He mumbled. 

"I'll show you, come on." Jayce gently took his hand and Viktor followed him into the bedroom. Jayce's bed was huge and the covers looked puffy. Viktor looked it over before following Jayce into the bathroom. He paused, tipping his head. Jayce had a walk-in shower, but there was a small seat built in, along with a hand rail. "I, uh, I had to really take my time here when my leg was recovering. Sometimes it still acts up, so I never had the shower remodeled. I'm glad I didn't now. I think these'll work great for you." Jayce said, smiling. Viktor nodded. He had a handrail in his own bathroom in the other world, but not a seat. 

Viktor hesitated before starting to tug at his shirt. He paused. "Do you have a towel I could stand on? I do not wish to get ash and dirt all over your floor." Viktor said, furrowing his brow. Jayce blinked before moving to a side cabinet and pulling out a towel. He laid it out before his ears went red as Viktor started to pull his shirt off. Jayce seemed to keep looking until Viktor started to pull off his pants. He quickly turned away, his cheeks red. Viktor gave a small scoff. "Jayce, you have seen me naked before."

"I-I know." Jayce managed quietly. "I just... thought about you here last night." He barely got the words out as he turned and quickly moved past Viktor, who'd gone pink. "So, t-to start the shower, we have this dial." He started to explain it, Viktor hesitantly moving up next to him with his cane. He was listening, but Jayce seemed to be the one getting distracted. "And, uh..." He seemed to lose his train of thought again. Viktor blinked.

"Water pressure adjustment." He prompted gently, Jayce instantly nodding. He went back to explaining the dials and Viktor wondered how anyone could be so distracted just standing next to him while he was naked. Was Jayce really thinking about it that hard? Viktor jumped as the water suddenly came down so loudly that it sounded like rocks and he pressed himself to Jayce's side.

"Sorry! Sorry, that was a little too hard." Jayce sounded flustered as he changed it and Viktor hesitated before stretching out his hand. He could already see the water washing the faint grey tint from his skin and he relaxed a little. Jayce had pulled back. "Your bandages can handle water, so you don't have to remove them." He explained softly. Viktor nodded. He was still hesitant. He never used his shower, only the bathtub. It reminded him too much of the rain. It reminded him too much of the rain on that day when- Viktor yanked his hand back like the water had burned him, his body quivering. Jayce paused. "Viktor?" He softened his voice in worry. 

"I-It's fine." Viktor spoke sharply and he couldn't tear his eyes away from the water. Jayce hesitated. 

"I can turn it off-"

"NO!" Viktor snapped at him much louder than he meant to, but Jayce didn't show fright or anger. He held up his hands and nodded. "It is FINE." 

"Alright. What can I do to make it better than fine?" Jayce asked softly. Viktor paused. He had already dropped his cane without even realizing, hugging himself tightly. His vision had blurred. Jayce had the lid down on the toilet, having sat on top of it in order to watch him. He was making sure he was still in Viktor's view. "I can change it to a different water pressure. I can detach the shower head and just rinse your body off." Every suggestion was quiet and Viktor furrowed his brow. He kept his legs tightly pressed together and he was so tense that his body was shaking. "I can get some buckets and we can just use the shower head to fill them?" Jayce offered gently. 

"...The second suggestion. Could you get in with me?" Viktor asked softly. Jayce blinked and his face went pink before he nodded. "I-I have to face you. If I hear th-that noise again and there is s-someone behind me, I-" 

"I got it." Jayce assured him. He got up and hesitantly started to strip off his clothes. He had a much larger pile than Viktor and he finally peeled his tank top off, casting the last article of clothing aside. His leg had the worst of the scarring. Viktor could see how it was stiff when he walked. He stepped aside, letting Jayce into the shower first. He peered in, watching him detach the shower head and pull it down. "Viktor?" Viktor paused before reaching out to Jayce's offered hand. He carefully moved inside. "Is it okay if I shut the curtain?" Viktor nodded, Jayce doing so. Viktor's leg ached and he hesitated. 

"Jayce, is it alright if I sit?" He asked, glancing up at him. 

"Of course. Here, we have to switch sides." Jayce carefully turned with him. However, when Viktor did sit, he was at height with Jayce's stomach. Jayce paused and glanced away. "This isn't... uncomfortable for you?" He asked awkwardly. If anything, Viktor was speechless. His face was hot and he hadn't been expecting... "Viktor, please stop staring." 

"My apologies. You are quite impressive, Jayce." Viktor replied, glancing up at him. Jayce instantly flushed red. 

"...Thanks." Jayce managed quietly. Viktor hesitated before apologizing again in a much softer tone. "It's okay. It's just... embarrassing for me." Jayce admitted. "Can you close your eyes?" Viktor nodded and did so, feeling the water rush over his head. Jayce's fingers gently combed through his hair, never staying on his scalp for too long. Viktor unconsciously tipped his head back into his hand, shivering a little. He heard Jayce laugh a little. "You have to let me reach the back of your hair too." He scolded. Viktor huffed, but lowered his head down again. Jayce started to carefully run the water over the rest of Viktor's body. He reached his legs and hesitated, kneeling in front of him. "This is still okay?" 

Viktor nodded and shivered as Jayce ran the water over him. He swallowed quietly, feeling himself clench around nothing. His thigh gave a small twitch. Jayce finally stood back up with a small hiss. He reached up, placing the shower head above himself before fetching the bottles. Viktor hesitated, his face growing hot again. He wasn't sure how to approach the topic and he swallowed again. "...Jayce?" He spoke softly and the other froze up a little. "I cannot just... ignore it, if that is what you were hoping." Jayce's ears went dark red. 

"I'm sorry. I-I'm sorry, I'm supposed to be helping you right now. And my mind is just... getting away from me." Jayce sputtered, glancing back at him. He was holding the shampoo bottle tightly. Viktor's heart was pounding and he met Jayce's gaze. 

"Could you show me properly?" 

Chapter Text

Jayce seemed like he nearly dropped the bottle, staring at Viktor. "What??" He asked, sounding a little shocked. Viktor flinched at that and turned his head away, gripping one of his own arms. "No, no, I'm not mad, that just..." Jayce's face was dark red. "Are you sure you're comfortable with that??" Viktor glanced up before reaching out. He pressed his fingers against Jayce's side and pushed, guiding the other man to turn around. Viktor swallowed quietly. Jayce was, indeed, very impressive. He hesitated before lifting a hand. He glanced up at Jayce. "Uh, yeah..." Jayce sounded stunned. "I-If that's what you want, go for it." His statement was hushed. 

Viktor's shoulders sank in response. "This is not just about what I-" 

"Viktor, please touch me!" Jayce blurted out the words instantly, startling him. For a moment, Viktor could picture the younger Jayce exclaiming it the same way and it stirred something in his core that made him squeeze his legs together. "I, uh... Uh, sorry. Can you please...?" Jayce fell quiet in sheer embarrassment. His length twitched and Viktor nodded, a little surprised by the older Jayce speaking so abruptly like that. Viktor wrapped his hand over the head of Jayce's length, rubbing his palm against the tip as his other hand moved to stroke the shaft. "Oh..." Jayce made a shaky noise, reaching out and steadying himself with the handrail. "...fuck..." He visibly swallowed as Viktor started to rub his thumb across the vein along the underside of his length. "Hah..." 

Viktor watched him quietly before his eyes drifted back down to his hand. Jayce was already throbbing. Viktor's lips parted a little to allow him easier breathing. He massaged the head of the other's length before starting to slide his thumb back and forth across the slit. "HAH!!" Jayce instantly covered his mouth as his hips gave a shiver. His eyes were wide and Viktor felt a rush of heat through his body. He left the tip alone for now, starting to roughly pump Jayce's length as he steadied his other hand on Jayce's thigh. "V-Viktor..." Jayce's voice was breathless. If Viktor closed his eyes, could he imagine the other one sounding like this too? The thought felt so obscene that he quickly shut his legs and forced himself to focus back on the task in his hands. Good gods, what was wrong with him?? Was it... really imagining another man if they were the same one?? The thought flushed his face. Jayce's length was twitching in his hold. 

"V-Viktor, h-hey." Jayce finally held out a hand and Viktor quickly pulled both of his back, looking up at him with wide eyes. Jayce was panting, his hair hanging around his face as he looked down at him with warm eyes. "C-Can I do something else?" Viktor paused. "I-It's not... I'm not asking to... I want to... I want to use my fingers." Jayce stumbled over his words, glancing aside. Viktor felt himself squeeze at the words and he nodded wordlessly. Jayce carefully lowered himself to his knees and Viktor jumped as Jayce leaned on the seat with his elbows. "Alright..." 

"Jayce." Viktor spoke softly and when the other man glanced up at him, he leaned forward, catching their lips together. Jayce met him eagerly, one of his hands gently slipping up to cup the back of Viktor's head. The other started to rub circles on his navel, Viktor shivering. "Hah..." He made a small noise against his lips before gasping as Jayce's calloused thumb made contact with his clit. "Ah!!" He trembled and deepened the kiss on his own, nipping Jayce's lip and pushing his tongue in. Jayce let him, even opening his mouth more. They chased each other's noises for a moment. When Viktor finally pulled back to take a breath, he cried out. "HAH!!" Jayce had pushed one finger inside of him, Viktor squeezing around it. One of his legs lifted, his toes curling a little. Jayce's finger was pressed right up against something that was already threatening to push him over. 

Jayce watched him with wide-eyed awe, starting to hesitantly thrust his finger. He hit that spot once before Viktor felt his breath catch painfully in his throat. He didn't say a word, but Jayce instantly angled his finger in another direction, giving him temporary reprieve. Viktor shivered, his legs opening up a little wider. Jayce's other hand had disappeared below the seat and he started to let out his own desperate noises, though he was clearly trying to focus on Viktor. One finger suddenly became two and Viktor gasped at the stretch. "Oh..." His toes dragged along the shower floor. His knee gave an uncomfortable twitch. 

"Here." Jayce's voice was breathless as he guided Viktor's bad leg up to his shoulder. It stretched out his thigh, but that was marginally better than the aching his knee had felt. Jayce's hand moved back down and he inhaled shakily. Viktor couldn't help the filthy noises that escaped him as Jayce's fingers thrust in to the knuckle every time. They felt deep and big. They were. Viktor shivered again. Jayce visibly swallowed again. He suddenly crooked his fingers, dragging them along Viktor's walls. 

"JAYCE!!" Viktor cried out his name in shock as he felt that squish between his legs. He had to calm down, that alone having almost pushed him over the edge. "Oh... mm..." He squeezed his eyes shut. Jayce's fingers were nestled inside him and his thumb was rubbing circles on his clit, sending tiny little sparks of pleasure through him. It wasn't overwhelming and he took the opportunity to simmer himself down a little. His thighs were twitching. "Jayce..." His name was much dirtier than he meant it to be and Jayce stared at him for a moment. He started to thrust his fingers again and Viktor reached out, holding onto the edge of the seat. "Ah!! Hah!" 

Jayce's thrusts were becoming erratic and inconsistent. Suddenly, his fingers sharply angled and, when they dug into that spot that Viktor had felt before, his vision crackled and his hips spasmed before slick spilled out onto Jayce's hand. The noise Viktor made was near unintelligible. Jayce shivered and he leaned forward, burying his cheek against Viktor's thigh once he'd lowered his leg back down. He had slipped his eyes shut, his arm seen pumping below the seat. He pulled his fingers out of Viktor with a loud, wet noise. His other hand moved down and he gasped, his body giving a shudder. "...fuck." He whispered. He rested his chin on the seat just for a moment before his eyes landed forward. He was heard swallowing. "Viktor...?" 

"Yes." Viktor replied instantly before inhaling shakily as he felt Jayce's tongue lick a firm, clean stripe from the bottom of his folds all the way up to his clit. The sensation felt like electricity through his body, which was still tender from his first release. He was almost completely slumped back against the wall. Jayce licked into him desperately, his tongue finally pushing inside and lapping up his slick. His breath was hot and heavy against him. He was so eager that it almost made Viktor want to hide himself in embarrassment. Jayce finally pulled back. Viktor was left tingling and he shivered. Jayce sat back, closing his eyes and letting the water pour over him from the shower head. 

"...I've got to get you to try butterscotch." Jayce whispered, sounding breathless. Viktor's arms shook as he pushed himself up. He swallowed before managing a weak laugh. 

"I rather like seeing this mystery flavor leave you so wound up." Viktor teased. "How will you control yourself when enjoying the real candy?" Jayce paused and his ears flushed as he glanced aside. Viktor managed a weak smile. "...Thank you, Jayce." Jayce paused and stared at him. 

"M-Me? You're letting me touch you. I..." Jayce didn't seem to know what to say as he shook his head. "I can't believe you're letting me do this. It's... It's incredible." Jayce hesitated. "Y-You're incredible. Everything." Viktor paused and doubt flickered across his face. He shut his legs and glanced aside. "Viktor?" 

"Would you still say such things if I were... proper?" Viktor asked quietly. Jayce stared at him in disbelief. He leaned up, his elbows on either side of Viktor's thighs. 

"Viktor." Jayce said his name softly. "You are proper. Far more proper than I'd ever be." Viktor wasn't sure Jayce had picked up on what he meant at first, but the look in the other man's eyes quickly proved him wrong. "This skin is yours. Whatever changes you make, it'll still be yours." Jayce said softly. "Whatever you decide to be, it'll still be yours." Viktor's heart ached as he stared at him. Jayce's hand was resting against his chest. Viktor caught him in another kiss, Jayce carefully pressing back. "How's that for poetry?" 

The tease caught him so offguard that Viktor started laughing, trying to suppress himself into small chuckles. Jayce grinned before wincing as he pushed himself to his feet. "Fuck, ow." Viktor paused and stared at him, but Jayce shook his head, smiling reassuringly. "Don't worry about it." He gave a weak chuckle himself. "Nothing we do in here is going to hurt worse than my water bill this month." 

Chapter Text

Jayce's bed was so much softer than he'd thought. Viktor was frozen for a moment. These blankets were clearly thrown together by a machine in some textile factory, but they were puffy and cool. Nothing silky or fancy about them. Barely even warm. Viktor blinked a couple times. "...Do you like it?" Jayce asked, having just placed him down. He didn't seem to know how to react to Viktor's sudden paralysis. They were both dressed again, Viktor wearing Jayce's clothes. They'd had to roll up the legs of the drawstring sweatpants just a little. Viktor gave a small, stunned nod. He reached down before curling his fingers into the blankets. He kneaded them before letting them go. His feet moved next, bunching up the blanket between them and sliding around with it.

"I-I do. I believe I do." Viktor was a little surprised by that himself as he sat up. Jayce watched him and the sympathy in his eyes made Viktor scrunch up a little. "They do not seem very warm, I noticed." 

"They're meant for holding heat in. That's why I'm here." Jayce added, giving a small, playful bow. Viktor laughed a little. Jayce moved around and slipped into the bed next to him. Jayce had made them some food, having toasted some ham-and-cheese sandwiches. Viktor had had at least three. Jayce moved under the covers and carefully opened them up. Viktor paused before slipping next to him. The moment Jayce put the covers down, Viktor could see what he meant immediately. It was like sleeping next to a fireplace. Jayce's body was warm and Viktor relaxed a little. Jayce wouldn't reach out, keeping his hands firmly to himself. Viktor paused before finally deciding to rest his head against Jayce's shoulder. After another minute or so, Jayce's cheek pressed into his hair. 

There was nothing left in his space. 

It was an empty, white void with translucent webbings of pink, green, yellow and blue shifting along the 'ground' like slow-moving clouds. Viktor hadn't said a word. Tears had been running down his face for the past several minutes. Never-ending. He didn't know if they were going to stop. He didn't even remember when they'd started. It was really all gone? His pond. His trees. His clouds. His thunder. There was nothing but an eerie silence. 

Something crash-landed into it. 

It was so loud that it made him flinch and curl up, burying his hands over his ears. He inhaled shakily. He already knew what it was and even who it was, but he couldn't bring himself to even lift his head. His space was gone. Inside and out. He heard footsteps approaching before awkwardly skidding to a stop and stumbling back. The younger Jayce moved around him, his eyes wide before he dropped to his knees. "Viktor?? Where are we??" 

"It's gone." Viktor managed weakly, his voice nothing more than a scratchy whisper. Jayce stared at him and his shoulders sank. "A-A forest fire took it. It took my safe place." He hated sounding like a child, but he was so distressed that it was physically hurting him to even speak. He felt like he was going to be sick. He hiccuped shakily. Jayce glanced around and he gave a small nod. They both sat in silence before Jayce awkwardly cleared his throat and turned to look at him again.

"H-Hey, have you, uh, ever built a fort?" The words caught Viktor by surprise and he glanced up at him in confusion. Jayce shifted into a crisscross position. "So, uh, don't get mad-" Already off to a promising start. "-but Cait's already at the apartment and we've already built the fort." Jayce averted his eyes. "And it may have gotten a little bigger than what I told you." Viktor stared at him before giving a weak scoff. Something in his chest lightened and he leaned his head against his arm. 

"What did you two do?" He asked, raising a brow. Jayce paused and seemed to take a moment to gather his thoughts. "You said it would not go much farther than the hallway." The way Jayce froze up made Viktor almost start laughing. "Jayce." 

"It did start in my room." Jayce began awkwardly. "And now it's out of my room-"

"Jayce." 

"-and maybe part of it is in your room now-" 

"Jayce!" 

"-and maybe the bathroom too, but only a little-" 

"'Only a little'??"

"-and perhaps some of it even went out into the living room and the kitchen-" 

"The kitchen??" 

"-but, rest assured, it is under control."

"The knife block is still out on the counter!" 

"Not anymore, it's not." Jayce responded vaguely, his hands politely clasping in his lap.

"Jayce!!" 

"Neither of us are hurt, I promise!" Jayce stated instantly, holding up both of his hands. "One of us is studying engineering! Caitlyn Kiramman and Jayce Talis are professional fortress builders." He said it so matter-of-factly that Viktor buried his face in his hands. "...That's about the reaction I expected, yeah." 

It was silent for a few moments before Viktor simply burst out laughing. His laughter was loud and it hurt, but it released so much pressure from his chest that he couldn't quite stop. He laughed until he cried again, hearing Jayce yelp in surprise from somewhere above him. His voice was muffled and, when Viktor opened his eyes and wiped the tears from them, he was alone. But not alone in a horrifying, crippling way. No, he was... surrounded by pillows and blankets. Viktor paused. He was on a pile of soft blankets, being the ones from the older Jayce's bed. He could see blankets covering several entrances like curtains. "...Jayce??" 

"I think I might be trapped!" Jayce's muffled voice called back. Viktor glanced around until he noticed a section of the plush wall wiggling around high above him. He could only stare for a moment before raising a hand to his mouth to hide his smile. Jayce's hand suddenly poked out from the pillows and he pushed two of them out of his way. He crawled on his elbows to look down at Viktor. "If you were jealous of our fort, you could have just said something!" His hair was a mess now, but his eyes were bright. Jayce hesitated. 

"Jayce, do not-" 

"What?" 

"Do not throw yourself-" Viktor sighed heavily as he watched Jayce throw himself from the opening. He landed on the blankets with a loud puff next to him. Viktor buried his face in his hand. 

"See? It worked out." Jayce said, smiling up at him from where he laid on his back. Viktor stared at him in disbelief before laughing again. It hurt. It hurt his chest to laugh and relieve that pressure that he felt constricting his very lungs. Jayce paused before sitting up. "Hey, uh..." He softened his voice, his brow furrowing. "I don't think you're supposed to cry like this when you laugh." Viktor felt his thumb brush away his tears and he hiccuped quietly. "Tears are caused to relieve stress and pain. Laughter's supposed to be something... joyful." Jayce sighed and his hand moved to fully cup Viktor's cheek. "Look at this. You did this." He gestured to the castle of pillows around them with a smile. 

Viktor leaned his head into his hand, his eyes squeezing shut. Jayce was felt pausing. "Can I hold you?" He asked hesitantly. He'd barely finished the question before Viktor was already nodding. "O-Okay, yeah." He pulled Viktor against him so the other could sit sideways in his lap. He kept his arms wrapped around him. "Here." He softened his voice and Viktor buried his cheek against his shoulder. "You... You said there was a fire. Are you okay?" Jayce finally asked, pushing his bright-eyed curiosity aside for a much more serious worry. "You're not hurt, are you?? You're not about to-" 

"I am not about to disappear." Viktor said softly, glancing up at him. Jayce paused before relaxing a little. 

"Hurt? At all?" He finally asked again, reaching up and lightly pushing his head side to side with one finger before gently lifting his chin. Viktor gently swatted his hand away. 

"Just some cat scratches. I was trying to keep her safe." Viktor replied softly. Jayce's eyes weakened on him. They really were both capable of that same look. They both looked at him as if he were the kindest man they'd ever seen. To be honest... he wasn't sure if he actually was. 

"You're... actually letting me hold you. Completely." Jayce sounded a little awed as he spoke. "Are you that tired? Did your marvel of engineering and architecture tire you out?" Jayce asked, instantly becoming playful again. Viktor scoffed at him softly. Jayce grinned at him. Viktor closed his eyes and he almost chuckled again as Jayce placed his chin on top of his head. They sat in quiet warmth, nothing but pillows and blankets as company.

Nothing more was needed. 

Chapter Text

When Viktor woke again, he could see the sunlight creeping across the puffy bedsheets. He blinked a few times, trying to adjust. Right, he wasn't in his tent anymore. Someone shifted behind him with a small noise. Viktor allowed himself the smallest smile. He turned to look back at Jayce. Jayce had his arms wrapped around Viktor, his breathing warm against the back of his head. It was ruffling his hair and Viktor gave a weak laugh. This was... nice. It felt nice. He shifted around before pausing as something pressed up against him. Viktor felt his face go hot, but another weak bit of laughter escaped him. "Good gods, who allowed you such a weapon?" He murmured jokingly.

After another moment or so, he slightly pushed himself backwards against it and he heard Jayce's breath hitch. His arms tightened just a little. "Mm..." Jayce made the smallest noise as Viktor started to carefully roll his hips. Jayce shivered and Viktor gave his own in response. After another moment, his hips came to a complete stop as Jayce shifted again. "Fuck... Viktor...?" He sounded dazed as he panted. Viktor hesitated before curling up and apologizing. What had he been doing?? Viktor buried his face in the pillow, quickly apologizing again, his voice much shakier this time. "No, no... I'm just surprised." Jayce tried to assure him in a gentle voice. "I, uh, I should take my medicine first if we want to do anything." 

Viktor blinked and glanced back at him in confusion. "It's nothing bad. I just... I know you like me to ask before I touch you or I do anything sudden. If I don't take my medicine, I'll forget to ask and I don't... I don't want to scare you." Jayce admitted quietly. Viktor paused and his cheeks went hot at his genuineness. He turned in Jayce's hold to face him, the other's face turning red. Viktor leaned his head against the pillow quietly. "Could you just use my legs?" He suggested softly, though he was trying not to let it slip that this was easily the dirtiest thing he'd ever suggested to someone and certainly the first time he would've tried it. Based on how red Jayce's face got, maybe it would be his first time trying this too.

"Viktor, I really don't want to scare you." Jayce said softly. 

"You would just be holding me like this. Your hands can roam where they please." Viktor said softly. His eyes scanned over Jayce's. "Is that alright?" Jayce hesitated. 

"You're okay with my hands just... wandering?" Jayce asked, clearly wanting to make sure Viktor meant it. Viktor nodded. He reached down and untied his sweatpants drawstring. He hooked his foot into one of the legs and expertly tugged it down, pushing it aside and leaving himself bare. He could see Jayce working to get his own pants off and he leaned forward just enough for his clit to touch Jayce's tip. "Hah!" Jayce startled and gave a shiver. "Sorry, sorry." He seemed to notice Viktor's surprised look and gave a weak laugh. "You did that on purpose." Viktor smiled cheekily, laughing a little himself. 

"I do not know what you mean." Viktor responded playfully. Jayce rolled his eyes before his calloused hands slipped over Viktor's hips. 

"Come here." Jayce murmured. Viktor shivered as he was pulled flush against him. He shifted his legs just a little and his face went completely hot as he felt Jayce's length slide between his legs. "Fuck..." Jayce breathed out the word and Viktor trembled a little. He hesitated before sliding his hands up to hold onto Jayce's shoulders. Slowly, Jayce started to move his hips and Viktor's jaws dropped open with a soft gasp as he felt that hard length rubbing right against his folds. Jayce's eyes slipped shut and he meant it when he said his hands would wander. 

Viktor was acutely aware of one tracing up the entire side of his body. The other rubbed a circle on his navel, making his hips tremble. "J-Jayce." Viktor whispered his name softly, his face going hot again as he felt himself becoming wetter. Jayce could feel it too if his shuddering noise was any indication. His hands slid around to grip Viktor's ass and drag him a little closer. "Ah!" Viktor gasped and his eyes shut as he tipped his head back. If he angled his hips down enough, he could feel Jayce's throbbing length brush against his clit with each slow thrust. 

"Viktor, c-could you close your legs a little more?" Jayce requested softly. Viktor did so and Jayce groaned. "Yeah, like that." He leaned forward, his hand moving up to hold Viktor's cheek. Viktor was wired and his heart was pounding as his thighs twitched around Jayce's length. There was a buzzing feeling crawling up his body and when he opened his eyes, he nearly stiffened up. Out of one eye, he could still see Jayce's flushed face, his jaws parted. But out of the other eye, he saw a completely different scene. The edges of it were fuzzy and ripped. He could see the other Jayce, his eyes wide and his face flushed as he kept himself pressed back against the wall of the bathroom. He looked like he'd just woken up and his... Viktor felt himself squeeze. The two really were the same. The younger Jayce was clearly confused, but he inhaled shakily and his hips seemed to be chasing some invisible high as he thrust his length in the air. For a moment, Viktor could only stare. 

Finally, he gave an experimental squeeze around Jayce's length, sliding his folds along the shaft. The older one groaned, but the younger one startled and covered his mouth as he squeezed his eyes shut. In a moment, something was spurting from his length as he shivered.  

They were connected. 

The realization made Viktor let out a breath of excitement. He began to move his hips in tandem with the older Jayce's and he watched as the younger one seemed to bite back another noise with wide eyes. Since he'd just released, this was clearly pushing him into overstimulation and he squeezed his eyes shut, trying to press down his length with his hand as tears welled in his eyes. "Oh my god..." Even though it was the older Jayce that spoke, Viktor shivered in excitement as he watched the younger Jayce's lips sync up to the words. Viktor was trying to piece it together in his head. 

Did this always happen?? Or was he, an Intersect, being used as a conduit between the two versions? Viktor's heart was racing. He sped up a little. The younger Jayce pressed his cheek into his shoulder, his jaws open and eyes squeezed shut as his hand tried to keep his hips from thrusting. The first tears escaped down his face and Viktor felt terrible about how wet he suddenly became, seeing the shiny trails down that cleanshaven, dark red face. The younger Jayce's usually neat, styled hair was a mess. Viktor hated to say it, but he loved that. The younger Jayce threw his head back and Viktor gasped in shock as he felt Jayce's hips shudder, the older one suddenly dragging Viktor against himself. That opening had disappeared when Viktor opened his own eyes again. 

He was left staring at the older Jayce's awed, flushed face. He leaned forward and Viktor slid his hands up to hold his head as he felt those lips against his. He could feel Jayce's release staining his legs and he trembled as the other slipped his length from between his legs. All of a sudden, two fingers were sliding between his slick, crooking and pushing up inside of him. "Oh! Jayce!!" Viktor cried out, squeezing around his fingers. Jayce started to thrust them, pressing his lips to Viktor's neck as he rubbed circles on his clit. He wanted Viktor to release too. The fact that Jayce didn't want to leave him unsatisfied flustered Viktor and he leaned his head to the side to allow Jayce more access to his neck. "Ah!! Hah!" 

It was certainly working, Viktor's toes curling. The noise he made as he released was utterly filthy, though the noise his slick made was arguably worse. "Oh gods..." He groaned and buried his face against him as Jayce rubbed him through his release. He whimpered and Jayce finally pulled his hand away. Both of them were left panting and trembling. Jayce kissed him again, Viktor pressing back. 

"You're incredible." Jayce murmured against him, his breathing heavy. "Fuck." Viktor could only manage the tiniest, cocky little laugh. Jayce kissed his neck again. "Hey... think you can handle going to the station today? You seem like you'd be able to bear it. I'll be with you the whole time." Jayce insisted softly. Viktor knew that he was allowed a few days to settle, but Jayce seemed eager. "I want to be the one to show you around." Viktor managed the smallest smile. 

"Perhaps. You seem eager. There are things you are excited to show me?" Viktor asked breathlessly. Jayce glanced aside and Viktor paused. "What is it?" 

"...I have a bowl of butterscotch candy in my office." Jayce finally admitted. Viktor broke out in laughter. "I just want you to try it! I promise it's good!" Viktor laughed for another few moments before nodding.

"Yes, yes, Jayce. Of course." 

Chapter Text

Piltover Fire Station 4 was smaller than Viktor expected, but as much as he was embarrassed to admit it... he enjoyed the fire trucks. He was fascinated by them and their complicated panels and builds. He stood in the parking lot with his cane. He wore one of Jayce's smallest collared shirts, along with a pair of pants that had shrunk in the wash. He wore his orthopedic shoes, which were a blessing on his legs. He had been so nervous that he'd been silent the whole ride here, not to mention looking out the window would make him nauseous when paired with the rattling of the engine. Viktor was staring at the three massive garage doors. He finally turned as Jayce moved over to him in his fire station hoodie and some jeans. "Ready?" He asked gently. 

Viktor nodded quietly. Jayce led him inside and, to his surprise, he was greeted almost immediately by a familiar face hopping up on the counter. Viktor was surprised. "Oh, he doesn't usually come greet new people." Jayce sounded surprised as well, but he heard him go silent as Viktor raised his hand in a salute. 

"General." He said politely. General Sterling Silver's tail waved at this and Viktor hesitated before offering his hand, which the old cat butt his head against. He paused, feeling fear rush through his body as he remembered he only ever knew about Sterling through his space. "...I saw this cat before in a dream. I... did not think him to be real." Viktor said, turning to look at Jayce with a look of feigned awe. That seemed to slightly ease Jayce's shocked expression. "Hello..." He trailed off, not wanting to dig himself deeper. "What is his name?" 

"General Sterling Silver." Jayce said, finally smiling and moving forward. "We call him Sterling." Viktor nodded, watching the old cat's ears flick around. He paused as he saw the fire pole descending from the ceiling in the corner, a round hole allowing him to see into the floor above. He tipped his head in quiet confusion. He saw an unoccupied receptionist desk and a small lobby. Sterling's cat bed seemed to be in the corner, with his food and water. He could see the elevator off to the side, with a small alcove containing fire station merchandise. He didn't imagine a fire station was ever closed, so why was the first floor empty? His hand had moved to hook into his sleeve uncertainly. "Hey, it's okay." Jayce spoke immediately, seeming to notice his discomfort. "Everyone's likely having breakfast upstairs. Here." He offered his hand, Viktor relaxing a little before taking it.

Jayce led him over to the elevator and, once it opened, a blur ran past their feet. "General!" Jayce laughed quietly as Sterling let out an impatient meow, pacing inside. Viktor allowed himself a small smile. The doors closed and the elevator started to move. Viktor was still nervous and he stared at the floor blankly. He didn't even process Sterling practically throwing himself at his legs for attention. "Viktor." Jayce's voice was gentle and Viktor startled a little, looking over at him. Jayce's eyes softened and he cupped his cheek. "You're okay." Viktor stared for a moment before relaxing and nodding. When the elevator opened, Viktor could see the second floor was where all the noise was. They moved out of the elevator and one of the other firefighters went running past with a piece of toast still in her mouth, waving to Jayce wordlessly. 

There were three halls. One seemed to lead to a massive break room, another seemed to lead to a room with some desks, likely their office space and the other led to the fire pole, this being where the hole opened up to. Jayce led Viktor down towards the break room. He could hear chattering and laughing. Already, he was becoming hesitant, scrunching up his shoulders. He finally came to a stop, squeezing his eyes shut. It sounded like there were far too many people in there and he backed up a tiny bit until he was pressed against the wall, trying to control his breathing. Jayce appeared in front of him, his brow furrowed in worry. He offered his hands and Viktor could barely manage to even take one of them. He pulled it to his chest and he watched as Jayce's eyes widened, able to feel how hard Viktor's heart was racing. 

"Alright. How about this? I'll head in and let Benzo know you’re here, then I can take you to my office. Maybe you can meet everyone one by one instead of all at once." Jayce suggested. Viktor nodded after a moment. He let out a shaky breath. 

"I-I'm sorry, I do not mean to trouble you with this." He managed. Jayce immediately shook his head, his gaze soft and non-accusatory. He leaned forward and Viktor relaxed just a little as he felt his lips against his own. He pressed back against him. It was a gentle kiss, accompanied by massaged circles on his shoulder. Jayce pulled back and looked him over. Viktor's breathing had steadied and he nodded. Jayce smiled, giving his hand and shoulder a squeeze before turning and making his way into the break room. He was heard laughing as a chorus of voices greeted him, asking what he was doing there or if he'd brought them any snacks. 

"Oh!" Another voice made Viktor jump and he glanced over. That woman that had rushed by earlier had come back. She smiled at him, wearing her own fire station hoodie. "Hello! Are you the new accountant Chief was telling us about??" Viktor paused. Was that really going to be his job? He could do it, but he was somewhat disappointed. He'd been expecting something just a tiny bit more hands-on. Viktor smiled and nodded, straightening up as he kept his hands on his cane. The woman came over and held up a hand. "My name is Sky Young! I'm one of the consistents, so you'll be seeing me a lot!" 

Viktor shook her hand, though he couldn't help but think that name sounded familiar. He remembered something like it vaguely from his childhood. "My name is Viktor. It is nice to meet you, Miss Young." He said politely. She seemed flustered by his reference to her and shook her head. 

"Oh, no, no, just 'Sky' is fine." She insisted. "I'm not your boss or anything of the sort!" She gave a small laugh. "It looks like you've already managed to win over one of the toughest guys here!" She gestured down and Viktor paused before giving his own laugh as he saw Sterling seated next to his legs. "Jayce brought you, right? You’re not standing out here by yourself, are you?" Sky instantly became worried and Viktor blinked, gesturing to the break room. Sky seemed to understand. "Alright, I have to run. We have an issue with Engine 9 and I think they need me to take a look at it. It was nice meeting you, Viktor." She turned and made her way towards the other hallway. She took the pole down, disappearing to the floor below. Viktor could only stare after her. He swore he'd heard her name before. 

"...Hey." Viktor's eyes moved to the corner in front of him. A kid appeared, no older than 13, at the most. He had puffy white hair and Viktor paused. His eyes were puffy as well, like he'd been crying as he peered around the corner uncertainly. "Do you know any poems?" Viktor froze up. 

"I know one, word for word." He answered calmly and softly, making his way over to the boy with soft taps of his cane. "I assume you may know the same one." 

"Maybe." The boy mumbled. He glanced up at him. He looked like he'd barely been sleeping and it was terrible look for someone his age. "You're Viktor, right? Benzo was telling me about you." Viktor nodded and offered his hand. The boy took it, shaking it quietly. "You're the Intersect all the Pilties like over there, right?" Viktor stiffened a little before sighing through his nose and glancing aside. 

"Unfortunately." He replied, seeming to confuse the boy. "I know it may seem like a blessing to be in the elites' favor, but I promise you I have never felt more like some pet they all like to fawn over amongst themselves. An Intersect, but just a poor, crippled Zaunite that must need them." Viktor rolled his eyes. "It can be quite... stressful. Demeaning." The boy stared at him before glancing aside and nodding. He looked a little guilty and Viktor had a feeling he'd just squashed some assumptions that had been made about him. 

"My name's Ekko... I'm a Zaunite too." He said quietly, glancing up at him. Viktor smiled, saying it was nice to meet him. "Are you going to be sticking around here?" 

"Vander and Benzo have decided that the encampment is not safe for me. They suspect someone set the woods ablaze to try and target me. They just happened to do so when I was not here." Viktor told him. Ekko nodded and glanced aside. "...Ekko, forgive me if this is invasive, but you seem like you are quite upset." He furrowed his brow as he watched him. Ekko paused before shaking his head, though his throat convulsed like he was choking back a hiccup. Viktor furrowed his brow. Something must have happened. Something serious. He had a feeling it may have not happened in this world either. 

Viktor hesitated before moving his cane to the side. He opened his arm to Ekko and the boy paused, glancing up at him. "You do not have to, but I figure it would be more comfortable to cry when you are hidden." He said softly. "It works for me." Ekko stared at him before finally moving forward. He buried himself against Viktor's side before starting to cry quietly. That... That was grieving. Ekko had just lost something important. Viktor had just been crying like that not even two days before. He kept his arm wrapped around the boy and he paused as he heard footsteps. 

When he glanced back, Jayce and Benzo had come from the break room. Jayce seemed a little shocked, which suggested to Jayce that Ekko was not usually so open to new people. However, Benzo watched both of them with weak, warm eyes. He glanced up at Viktor appreciatively. Viktor managed a smile in their direction before looking back down at Ekko. The boy had his fists balled up in his shirt as he cried and Viktor gave a weak sigh through his nose. 

"Viktor, if you would follow me, please." Benzo spoke to him quietly and Ekko suddenly seemed to choke on his own crying. "Calm, boy. I don't judge." He assured him. Ekko quieted down just a little. Viktor nodded, offering his hand to Ekko. The boy took it quietly. Viktor looked back at Jayce in confusion, Jayce gesturing that he'd wait there for him. Viktor nodded before turning and following after Benzo. 

Sterling pattered after them. 

Chapter Text

Viktor was horrified, to say the least. Good gods, he was horrified and Ekko cried against him as he sat in the chair in front of Benzo's desk. He had Ekko held against him, the boy standing next to his chair. Benzo watched him with sunken shoulders. They were in his office, which was a quaint space with paneled windows for lots of sunlight. Benzo met his gaze and nodded. Viktor couldn't even imagine how painful this world was for Ekko if that was what had happened in the other. To Ekko, there was a dead man sitting at this desk. There were two dead men in the fire station garage. There was a dead man walking at the homeless encampment, potentially with two dead girls. Viktor's eyes were wide in shock. "I-I am so sorry for your losses. Gods..." Viktor whispered shakily. 

"Th-They're st-still here." Ekko managed weakly through his tears. "I-I still h-have them h-here." Viktor's heart sank and he nodded. 

"Viktor's cycle is matched to yours, I believe. You both will be coming back to the  same place each time. I take it you two aren't anywhere close in that other place though." Benzo said, leaning back in his chair. Viktor shook his head. 

"I would not want Ekko to be found by Piltover and its elites. They already treat me like I am some prize animal, I would rather not see what they put someone so young through." Viktor said quietly. "They would pay for everything he needs, but he would have to be fine with being paraded around like some spectacle." Ekko instantly shook his head against his shoulder. Viktor nodded. 

"Viktor, you’re 25 this year, are you not?" Benzo asked, his arms crossing over his chest. Viktor froze up, his eyes wide. "Have you chosen where you’re Frosting to?" Viktor swore he heard the slightest scuffle at the door, but he was distracted by Ekko's sniffle. "Once you choose, the decision is permanent." 

"I know." Viktor said quietly. "I... I know. I do not know where to go. I like this place. I am quite fond of it. I am quite fond of... Jayce." Viktor managed, glancing to the side. "This place is welcoming... yet..." Viktor furrowed his brow. What would become of the other Jayce? His research? Viktor's possibilities of staying in both worlds? "I do not know if I will stay. This decision is hard. I wish I did not have to make it at all, but I know what happens if I do not." Ekko's grip slightly tightened on him. If he chose not to Frost at 25, he had a good few years before the Arcane would rot him away. An Intersect that chose not to Frost when they should would slowly get sicker and more disfigured the more they switched between worlds. Singed had figured this out the hard way and saved himself much later than he should've. 

"I know you'll do what's right. Boy, come here." Benzo called out to Ekko. Ekko hiccuped and moved around the desk before practically tackling him in a hug. "I know, I know. I'm still here. I'm still with you." Benzo watched him in dismay. Viktor could only imagine how Benzo felt when Ekko told him what had become of his other self. That Ekko had to be the one to find him. "You aren't scheduled to work for another two days, Viktor. I'll be taking you in for an 'apprenticeship' every other week. You'll be 'learning the basics of the fire department network'." Each time, Benzo put it in quotations and Viktor nodded. He wasn't sure if that was a good enough excuse for him to be missing from Jayce's apartment every other week, but it would have to do for now. "You're dismissed, Viktor. I'll see you bright and early in two days." Benzo gave him a salute and Viktor nodded. 

"Thank you, sir. I will be seeing you around, Ekko." He added to the boy, who nodded. He seemed relieved to have another Intersect nearby. Viktor pushed himself up from his chair and took his cane. 

"Viktor." Benzo made him look back. "Go easy on Talis, alright? He's a kind man and he means well. This would be a lot for him." Viktor's gaze weakened.

"The last thing I would want is to overwhelm or worry Jayce. I am... very fond of him." Viktor admitted.

"There's a name for that kind of 'fondness', my boy." Benzo said, raising a brow. Viktor froze up a little.

"I can't." He answered shakily. Benzo seemed taken back, but before he could answer, Viktor had turned away. He was already out the door, moving right past Jayce, who had been inches from the doorway. He couldn't. He couldn't. He couldn't put a name to this relationship. He couldn't. If he did, it would be too much. If he did, it would be too soon and it would too finite and he didn't know if he could handle it. A choked noise escaped him and he finally dropped his cane, hiding himself in a corner as he hugged himself. He hiccuped and tears were in his eyes. If he put a name to this relationship, he didn't know if he could let it go. "I-I can't. I can't, I can't, I can't." He managed in a choked voice. 

After a moment or two, someone appeared in front of him and tanned, calloused hands moved to take his own. Viktor hiccuped shakily and glanced up. Jayce looked confused and slightly contemplative as he rubbed his thumbs over Viktor's knuckles. "...You're not telling me something." Jayce finally said, his brow furrowed. That made Viktor choke on his breath and he went completely silent, tears starting down his face again. "Viktor, if we go somewhere private and quiet, can you please just be honest with me? I'm so worried about hypotheticals to what I just heard and..." Jayce squeezed his eyes shut, sighing. "I just want to know what's going on." 

Viktor's shoulders sank. "Jayce, I do not know how I could begin to explain anything. You would think I am some kind of addict." He managed in a weak voice. Jayce's eyes softened on him and he shook his head. 

"Please. You saw all my pill bottles." He joked weakly. Viktor paused before glancing aside. He allowed Jayce to lead him once the other had fetched his cane for him. They reached another office, but Jayce's looked like it may have been a rather large storage closet at one point. He didn't seem to mind it. He sat down right on top of his desk, patting next to him as Viktor shut the door. He hesitantly moved over before sitting on the desk next to him. He felt like he was going to be sick. "Viktor?" Jayce offered his hand and Viktor took it, though he couldn't look at him. Jayce gave his hand a squeeze. "Is there someone else?" 

Viktor froze up a little. He glanced over at Jayce. "I just want to know. It would make me feel just a little better knowing why you... can't put a name to what we have. If we have anything at all. I thought we did, but maybe we view relationships differently..." Jayce managed quietly, his voice slightly strangled. "I wouldn't... hold it against you with how fast we've been moving. I... I thought it was... a little too good." Viktor's heart sank. Was it really someone else if he was thinking of the same person? When his silence was all that followed, Jayce let out a quiet sigh through his nose. "...Right." The single word broke Viktor and he squeezed his eyes shut. He pulled his hand away and buried his face in his hands. "Is that what you meant by 'decision'?" 

"No! No..." Viktor blurted the word out before turning his head away. "Jayce, I very much do not know how to explain this to you. I don't know what to do." Viktor put every bit of helplessness into the statement that he could, tears rolling down his cheeks. "If I define what this relationship very much is, I don't think I can leave this world behind." Jayce went dead silent. 

"Viktor?" His voice shook for a moment and Viktor startled. 

"I-I am not dying! I'm not dying." Viktor quickly assured him, his eyes wide as he held up his hands. Jayce relaxed a little, but he still looked hopeless and confused. "I mean 'this world'... because I also live in another. With mirrored versions of everyone here. Even you. And that... other you... is what makes this so hard for me. You both make it impossible to choose. What he offers is a way to remain in two places at once, but it is not guaranteed. You offer me something I want and I have never had... but I would be locking the place I was born in away if I stay." Viktor swallowed. "Ekko goes to the same place I do. It is why we disappear every other week... When I turn 25 this year, I must decide which world I want to stay in... or I must rot away into nothing." 

It was silent and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, his hands curling onto the edge of the desk. "You do not believe me."

"I didn't say that-" 

"You do not have to. I told you. I told you that you wouldn't." Viktor buried his face in his hands. "You think I am making excuses. I'm not. I wouldn't." Viktor's voice broke. Another moment of silence followed. "...Take me back to Zaun, Jayce." 

"What?? Viktor, no, we can talk-" 

"Jayce. You do not believe me. And it's clear to me that you won't." Viktor said firmly, more tears running down his face. "If our relationship is going to have distrust sewn into it, it is doomed to fail. I don't think I can handle it." His voice dropped to a whisper. Viktor inhaled shakily. "So just take me back to Zaun. We can pretend this never happened." His shoulders were sunken. Viktor startled as Jayce got up, turning and grabbing him by the shoulders before pinning him back against the desk and standing between his legs. Viktor felt cold fear shoot through his body for a moment before lips were felt against his and Jayce's hands slid up to cup his cheeks. After another moment, Viktor couldn't help but melt into the desperate gesture. Jayce pulled back and Viktor could see the tears in his eyes. 

"I don't know what you’re talking about. I don't know what's going on. But I don't want to pretend like this never happened. I don't want to let you go like that." Jayce spoke desperately. "Lately, my life has been fucking miserable until you happened. I felt like I barely had anyone left. You came along and I felt like I was alive again." Jayce scanned him over desperately. "I'm begging you not to cut it off like this. I... don't think I can handle it." Jayce buried his face down against his chest, trembling. "I'm sorry... I'm sorry I feel like this." 

Viktor could only watch him in dismay and shock. Jayce stared back before hiccuping and pulling back, rubbing his forehead. "I-I'm sorry for moving so suddenly... I'll... take you... back to Zaun." Even the words sounded like they were painful to him and Viktor finally spoke as he sat up. 

"No. I just want to go home." He said weakly. "I want to rest in our bed." Jayce paused and glanced over at him in teary-eyed shock. "Please just take me home, Jayce." Viktor's voice became strangled. "I just want to be with you right now." Jayce paused before moving forward. He pulled Viktor into a warm hug and Viktor buried himself against him. Too much to process for right now, he supposed. He did. He did want to be with Jayce. It was just terrible happenstance that there were two of them. 

Chapter Text

The drive back to Jayce's apartment had been quiet and the walk to his door had felt even quieter. The moment they were back inside, Viktor dropped his cane and buried himself against Jayce, his hands curled into his shirt. He gave a weak smile and turned in Viktor's hold. His arms were warm and Viktor nearly started crying again. Jayce didn't seem to know what to do for a moment. "I... I think I need to take another... another dose of my medicine." Jayce managed. Viktor paused and looked up at him.

"Jayce, that can't be safe for you." Viktor stated, a little taken back. Jayce stared at him before shaking his head.

"It'd be more safe for you." Jayce managed. Before Viktor could ask what he meant, Jayce's arms changed positions. He startled as one hand slid down his back and the other slipped up into his hair. "You said there's another me, right? Does he touch you like this?" Jayce asked, leaning down and whispering the words against his throat. Viktor gave a shiver before shaking his head. "No?" Jayce's breath was hot against his throat. He moved them backwards until he had Viktor against the wall. He pressed their lips together and Viktor couldn't help but gasp softly as Jayce's hand slightly tightened in his hair. His face was burning. His heart was racing. "Do you think he'd even be able to do it? Can he touch you right? H-Has he made you cum yet?" Jayce sounded slightly saddened by that and Viktor shook his head. 

"No... N-No... hah..." He shivered as Jayce's hand moved around to palm between his legs, finding right where his clit pressed up against the fabric. "H-He d-does not think of m-me like that... I b-believe he is still a virgin." Viktor managed quietly. Jayce scoffed softly. 

"So when you go to your... other world or whatever it is, you have to look him in the face, knowing that you came on that same tongue?" Jayce whispered, his eyes meeting Viktor's. Viktor let out a shuddering noise. He didn't know if he could forget that now. There was something jealous and weak in Jayce's eyes. His kindness was stripped away into something insecure and panicked. Like Jayce was afraid of losing Viktor to someone he'd never met and likely never would. 

To himself. 

That was if Jayce believed him at all, which Viktor wasn't sure he did. But he could only imagine how Jayce felt, hearing Viktor talk of another him. A him he was clearly associated with. This Jayce already seemed to feel like he'd lost. "Can I make you do it again?" Jayce asked softly, his voice strained against his throat. The request made Viktor tremble and he managed a small nod, pushing his shoes off his feet. The moment he had permission, Jayce's hands were already on his belt buckle, him having dropped to his knees and roughly undid his pants. Viktor's heart was pounding as Jayce dragged his pants down with his undergarments, having Viktor step out of them before casting them aside. 

"Jayce!" Viktor exclaimed as he felt Jayce's breath against his folds in an instant, the other man's tongue already giving small kitten licks to his clit. His legs trembled. Jayce's tongue was growing more desperate and he drew it along Viktor's folds, lapping harder and harder until it slipped between them. "Hah!" Viktor gasped as he felt Jayce continue to lick until his tongue finally pressed inside him, his breathing heavy against his folds. "Oh! J-Jayce!! Jayce!" He'd never felt anyone so eager and desperate. His legs trembled and he threw his head back with a filthy noise, feeling Jayce's hands wrap around the back of his thighs and pull his hips forward so he was practically sitting on Jayce's face. Jayce's tongue pushed deeper and Viktor inhaled shakily. "Oh, gods..." His fingers scratched against the wall as he tried to steady himself. His heart was racing. 

Jayce tasted him like he was a last meal and Viktor could only gasp, feeling that beard rubbing between his thigh and his own walls wet around Jayce's probing, eager tongue. "J-Jayce... Jayce, pl-please... Please, don't look like that." Viktor begged. He couldn't stand Jayce's saddened look, like this was the last he would taste of him. Jayce finally pulled his tongue out, but he suddenly pushed back in so deep that all the heat in Viktor's hips came rushing forward and he shivered. Jayce licked up his release desperately, his hands tight on Viktor's thighs. Viktor's legs shook as Jayce licked him through his orgasm. "HAH! AH!! JAYCE! Jayce! Jayce..." He died down into panting. He trembled, realizing that Jayce had pressed his cheek to his thigh and was simply staying there. His eyes were squeezed shut as he panted. "Jayce...?" 

Viktor barely managed to lower himself down. Jayce kept his eyes squeezed shut as Viktor slotted his legs around Jayce's as they both sat on their knees. Viktor was still just in Jayce's collared shirt. Jayce kept his eyes shut and a weak noise escaped him. Viktor's heart broke and he reached out, pulling Jayce's head to his shoulder. Jayce's hands dug into the fabric of his shirt and he started to cry. "W-Will he treat y-you well?? H-He'll touch y-you how you like? M-Make sure you f-feel safe and loved?" Jayce asked weakly. Viktor glanced at him in shock and dismay. He quickly took Jayce by the shoulders and held him out so he could look at him. "I-If it's me, h-he'd want to." 

"Jayce, stop." Viktor said softly. "Stop. I do not have that relationship with him that I do with you." 

"But you wouldn't say no to it, would you?" Jayce asked in defeat, his eyes having fallen to the floor. Viktor hesitated. Jayce seemed to take note of his silence and squeeze his eyes shut. 

"...I think I demand too much of each world. I think I have become selfish." Viktor managed weakly. Jayce paused and looked up at him. Viktor reached up and took him by the shirt, pulling him in and pressing their lips together. Jayce melted against him. "I do not know if you believe me... or if you think I am trying to excuse something else, but my attention is captured by the both of you." Viktor admitted quietly. "Yet, he only sets his sights on his work... and you've set your sights on me." Viktor whispered. "When I see you... I know you are looking back at me." Viktor's voice choked up a little. 

Jayce stared at him, his jaws parted and his teary eyes wide. He reached out, his hand holding Viktor by the hip as he leaned forward on his other one, practically devouring every noise from Viktor's throat as he pressed him back against the wall. Viktor could barely keep up. "...Because I do see you." Jayce whispered, pulling back to meet his eyes. "I see you. I feel you and I taste you." He sounded shaken. "The mere idea that I could lose you to myself is more terrifying than any kind of fire I have thrown myself into." Jayce's other hand cupped Viktor's cheek. "What if he doesn't treat you well?? What if he doesn't give you the attention you deserve?? What if he doesn't want you by his side as much as I do? What if you choose him anyway?? What should I fucking do, Viktor?? Oh my god." Jayce's voice strained.

Viktor had never seen the older one fall apart like this. He reached up and cupped his bearded jaw. Jayce reached up, placing his own hands over his. "...What is he like, Viktor? Is he good?" Jayce managed weakly. 

"...Unmedicated. Far, far too excitable for his own good. Extremely clingy and desperate for physical touch. Young and naïve to social cues. He can be quite goofy, yet below the surface, he bubbles with intense anxiety and a fear of abandonment. He has a bad habit of grabbing me, but not from behind." Viktor said weakly. "He is extremely intelligent. Despite his need for physical contact, he is not interested in friends. He keeps to himself at the end of the day. He is lonely. He seeks companionship in me, but I am uncertain if he seeks more." Jayce watched him quietly. 

"...Fuck, I think that is me." He finally managed, fresh tears welling in his eyes. He gave a weak laugh. "Oh god, I think that's me." There was something painful behind that and Viktor furrowed his brow. He slid his hand up into Jayce's hair and pulled him forward again, going deep with his kiss right away. Jayce could barely seem to keep up with him, their tongues dancing around each other. They pulled back from each other, panting. Jayce audibly swallowed. "...Are you trying for both of us?" The question made Viktor freeze up. 

"I can't. I cannot allow myself to be that selfish." He whispered in shock. Jayce stared at him. He reached out and Viktor inhaled shakily.

"Two of me... treating you like you deserve. Kissing you and touching you all over. I want this place to be mine." Jayce's fingers pushed between his folds and Viktor gasped shakily, his back arching a little. "Maybe he can have the other one. We can stuff you from both sides." Jayce had leaned down to whisper the words against his neck. Viktor gulped and he suddenly felt Jayce's fingers slip deeper. "...You like that idea." Jayce began to thrust his fingers and Viktor moaned, tipping his head back. "I don't know if I could ever make that happen for you. I don't even know if it's real or if it's true. I can barely wrap my head around it." 

"Hah! Jayce... Jayce...!" Viktor tipped his head back, groaning. He reached up and cupped his cheeks, Jayce pushing his face into his hands. 

"If it's all true, I would rather share you than have to lose you." The statement sounded painful and Viktor's eyes widened. 

"Y-You should not have to. You should not have to. Jayce, stop." Viktor reached down and held his arm. Jayce instantly came to a stop, freezing up. "Jayce, I did not say all of those things to make you feel lesser. I did not say them to make you feel bad or forced into something you do not like. I would not do that to you. I did not want to make you feel like this. Even when you touch me, you look like you are going to burst into tears. You are already grieving something you haven't even lost. I am right here." Viktor managed, looking him over. Jayce had pulled his fingers out. He was shaking. "I know this is hard to understand, but please do not feel like you are forced to share me. It is not your fault. It is mine and I'm sorry." 

Jayce stared at him tearfully. Viktor reached out before pulling Jayce against him in a tight hug. "...If I must, I would choose this world." He admitted ever so softly. "But what his work offers is a possible way for me to not have to choose. To continue living in both worlds so I do not have to abandon anyone from either side. I just do not want anyone to grieve me when I am not yet dead." Viktor whispered into his shoulder. His hands curled into the fabric of Jayce's shirt. "I'm so scared, Jayce. I am so scared of choosing and hurting. I cannot handle it. I am scared of something so final." Viktor's grip tightened on him.

"...If all else fails, I'll choose you."

The words seemed to shake Jayce to his core and he pulled back to look at him, tears running down his face. His eyes were wide. "You'd stay with me?" He asked shakily. Viktor nodded and Jayce seemed like he was immediately sent to tears. Viktor froze as Jayce's hands were felt on his thighs. "Can I do this for you, Viktor? Please? Please let me. Please." Jayce was begging at this point. "Let me please you. Let me do this for you." Viktor could already see the bulge straining his pants and he swallowed. 

"...My first was snatched from me. I just wanted it to be something special, but I'm sorry I cannot give it to you." Viktor could feel the guilt and shame in his chest. He'd always been so nervous and excited for it. He could give himself to someone he loved. But that wasn't how the pieces fell into place. Jayce stared at him and he kissed him again, much, much softer. Viktor could feel Jayce twitch against him, even through his pants. Jayce pressed a soft kiss to forehead, his cheek and ending up at his neck before ever so lightly biting the part of his shoulder he'd exposed. 

"It's okay.

Breathe, it's okay.

It's the first time for us." 

Chapter Text

Viktor hadn't let someone inside of him ever since that day. In fact, if that day hadn't happened at all, Viktor could still hold some pride about himself. Viktor wouldn't feel dirty. He wouldn't feel dirty and tainted. He startled as Jayce laid him in the bed, right on the puffy blankets. Viktor's hands moved to them. His legs drew up to cover himself again. He blinked in surprise as he felt Jayce push a pillow under his head and fold the blanket under his back so it would cushion him. Jayce was rooting around his nightstand, his brow furrowed. A condom. Lubrication. He was... "Jayce, I feel like I should be the nervous one." He managed in a soft voice. Jayce jumped and glanced over at him before giving a weak smile. 

"It'll be your first time. I'm, uh, I'm not exactly small. And I want this to be a good experience." And it seemed like he meant it. Jayce even had hot chocolate ready to be heated up out in the kitchen. This level of preparation and care was not something Viktor was used to. He watched as Jayce laid out the lube and condom next to him before pausing. "Could I... ask you to wear something else?" Viktor paused, a little taken back by that. Jayce moved over to his closet before coming back and Viktor's eyes widened.

"Oh, Jayce, is that not important?? I would not want to dirty it." Viktor stared at the fire station hoodie. Jayce seemed eager and Viktor finally unbuttoned the collared shirt, slipping it off himself. He felt his face go hot as Jayce placed the hoodie on him. It was soft and warm. Jayce drew back to look at him with a slightly awed expression and Viktor quickly became embarrassed again. He laid back against the bed as Jayce shed his shirt and left himself in his pants, which were still strained. Viktor swallowed, wondering how Jayce was holding himself together so well. He kept his legs together, favoring his weakened knee. Jayce had pulled another pillow over, likely to lay it down on. Jayce stared at him as he picked up the lube before letting out a shaky breath. 

"C-Can I start, Viktor?" He asked gently. Viktor swallowed before slowly opening his legs up. The moment the air hit his folds again, he became mortified and terror spread through his body. Jayce cupped his hand under his knee and the gesture was so startling that it distracted him. "Lay your knee down on this." Jayce spoke gently, having him set it down. His eyes were hazy, yet warm. "We can stop any time you want. If it gets too much, tell me to wait at any point." Viktor gave a shaky nod, burying his cheek back against the pillow behind him. His heart was pounding as he watched Jayce slick up his fingers with the lube before lowering them. 

Viktor shivered, his fingers curling into the bed as he felt Jayce rub a circle around his clit with his thumb before both fingers easily slid right in to the knuckle inside him. "Ah..." Viktor gasped a little, this position feeling much more intimate now. "Jayce..." Jayce began to spread and thrust his fingers, his other hand moved up to hold Viktor's hip. It nearly spanned the entirety of it. Jayce watched him with parted jaws, clearly trying to control his breathing. He was pushing his fingers in to his knuckle each time, making sure to do a full coating with the lube. When he pulled his fingers back to reapply, Viktor felt cold and he felt his cheeks go pink. "Oh!" He shivered as three fingers pushed inside him, starting to thrust. "Hah!" 

The stretch was not terrible, but he hadn't felt anything like it in so long. It was unfamiliar and he was teetering on the edge of it being too much of it weren't for the soft way Jayce was looking at him. Jayce visibly swallowed, pulling his fingers out again before slowly sliding them in once more. "Jayce..." His voice was more of a whine than he would've wanted and he inhaled sharply as that fourth finger pushed inside, Jayce rubbing his clit with his thumb as he thrusted his other fingers. "Ah! Hah!! Hah, Jayce! Jayce... Jayce..." Viktor couldn't stop his name from spilling out of his mouth and Jayce finally let out a shaky breath, his hand coming to a stop. He slowly pulled it out with a wet noise, his hand hooking into the waistband of his pants before tugging them down. 

"Fuck." Jayce spoke in a strained voice, reaching out and picking up the condom. Viktor felt his neck got hot as Jayce opened it with his teeth and rolled the condom down over himself, all with one hand. He used the mix of lube and slick to stroke over his clearly aching length. Viktor's heart was pounding and he could feel the tears pricking in his eyes already. He had to remind himself that it was already different. He was facing him. He could see him. He could see him and those eyes were warm. He was already trying to squeeze down with how loose he was and his breathing was shaky. He buried his hands into the puffy blankets and let himself sink back into the warmth of the fire station hoodie. He closed his eyes before he heard that breathy laugh that was not Jayce in the back of his mind and his eyes shot open in terror as he felt that hard, hot length settled against his folds. 

"STOP!!" Viktor instantly blurted out, Jayce freezing immediately. Tears finally escaped down Viktor's face. "Stop... wait..." He hiccuped and hid his face, Jayce reaching out and cupping his cheek. 

"What do you need from me? Anything?" Jayce asked quietly. Viktor inhaled shakily, trembling. Jayce's hands weren't unfamiliar. They weren't like those ones had been. They were warm and calloused. They knew hard work and strain. He buried his face into Jayce's palm, only a whimper able to escape him as he held onto his wrist. Viktor could only hear that breathy laughter and that voice cooing about how pretty he was. Touching all the places Viktor had never liked and he hiccuped shakily. Jayce's thumb rubbed circles on his cheek. At least laying down like this, Viktor wouldn't feel the pressure of another laying against his back, keeping him pinned to the ground. Grabbing him by the wrists and a bruisingly tight grip on one thigh. His bad knee forced to dig into the ground- "Viktor." Jayce spoke softly, getting his attention. Jayce smiled. "Hey." 

Viktor paused before inhaling shakily. "H-Hello." He managed in weak response. Jayce's eyes softened. 

"Do we need to stop?" Jayce asked, his other hand rubbing circles on his navel. The ghost-like touching was making him clench again and he shook his head. 

"No... No, I want it. I do want it, I... I need a moment. Every time I close my eyes, I-I'm right back where I was. With hands I did not want on a body I did not like." Viktor's voice strained. Jayce nodded, murmuring for him to take his time. Viktor didn't want to. He didn't want to take his time, he wanted Jayce inside of him. But he knew if they weren't slow and they weren't careful, he was going to lose his mind. Not in a good way either. Viktor swallowed softly. He could feel every twitch of Jayce's length resting against his folds. "...I-I'm ready. Please continue." He requested softly. Jayce nodded, turning his gaze down again. He began to slowly rock his hips, his length dragging along Viktor's clit. "Mm..." Viktor inhaled softly as he felt it moving down further and further until the head finally caught on his fluttering entrance. "Hah!" 

Jayce glanced up at him, his jaws parted and his breath shaky with excitement from a flushed face. "...Good?" He asked softly. Viktor paused and he shifted open his legs just a little more.

"Good." He confirmed quietly. Jayce exhaled shakily before starting to push inside. Viktor gasped and tipped his head back. He was thoroughly soaked with slick, spit, and lube, not to mention the condom itself was lubricated as well, but the stretch... He could not mistake Jayce for that other man, even in his scariest delusions. Jayce was much bigger. "Jayce... oh gods..." Viktor curled his fingers into the puffy blankets. Jayce was pushing against every one of his good spots and he felt an ache. Once Jayce had fully slotted himself in, he seemed to need a moment himself, his length hot and twitching inside of Viktor. 

"Oh my god... holy shit..." Jayce managed in a quiet voice. He sounded awestruck. "Viktor... fuck..." Viktor had tears running down his face again. "G-Good?" 

"Good. Please." Viktor spoke in a shaking voice before that first moan escaped him as Jayce started to slide. His length scraped against everywhere Viktor needed it to and he felt so full. Jayce's hips picked up a steady rhythm and it left Viktor's head spinning. "HAH!! JAYCE!! Jayce! Oh... Jayce... J-Jayce..." He squeezed his eyes shut, his hips involuntarily pushing upwards. Jayce's hand gently settled on his navel, keeping him pressed down. "Hah!!" Viktor swallowed before calling out in a weakened, desperate voice. "Jayce..."

"Yeah. Yeah, hold on." Jayce whispered breathlessly. "I'm here." He moved himself up over him before leaning down and pressing their lips together. Viktor inhaled shakily before pressing back against him. The kiss soothed some of his panic and he relaxed, gasping as Jayce was able to push further. "Oh, fuck... sorry..." Jayce managed, pulling himself back out just a little. Viktor was panting. Jayce looked absolutely starved, like he'd been waiting for this his whole life. Viktor blinked slowly and 

it happened again. 

He could see the other Jayce out of one of his eyes. The young one was almost in the exact same position, but he only had pillows. Based on the stains, he'd already released and tears ran down his flushed face as he mouthed out curses and gasps. He was thrusting against a pillow, his eyes squeezing shut desperately. Viktor panted before squeezing down on a particularly deep thrust. "Fuck..." Both of the Jayces seemed to say it, but the younger one shuddered and seemed to cry out as his release spattered the pillow again. He was sobbing at this point and Viktor felt terrible again, but he just... 

"Jayce... Jayce, f-faster?" He requested breathlessly. "I can handle it." Jayce nodded and started to speed up, their hips smacking together. Instantly, the other Jayce seemed to wail as his length gave a violent twitch. He buried his face down in the bed, desperately thrusting into his own hand, likely trying to relieve himself and make it stop. Viktor reached up and slipped his hand around the older Jayce's head, pulling him into another kiss. He watched as the younger Jayce's shoulders relaxed just a little and he closed his eyes, clearly feeling it on his end too. Viktor felt so hot and his other arm moved up to hold onto Jayce. "J-Jayce... Oh, I... I think I..." He could barely get the words out, his hips already shaking. 

"That's okay. Go ahead." Jayce whispered to him, his voice shaky. Viktor was spasming around his length and he watched the younger Jayce's eyes widen. More tears erupted from him and he buried his face into the bed, his hips jerking uselessly against the pillow. Viktor could feel the heat twisting and knotting in his stomach. It was being pulled tighter and tighter until it finally snapped and Viktor screamed out Jayce's name, the scene from the other world disappearing as he released, his whole body shaking. "Shit..." Jayce groaned. He was fucking Viktor through his orgasm, making his legs shake.

Viktor could feel the other man's hips shudder and Jayce groaned as his length throbbed. They were both left panting and holding onto one another. Jayce finally lifted his head and gently pressed their lips together again, Viktor meeting him almost desperately. "Good?" Jayce asked breathlessly, his hand rubbing Viktor's cheek. 

"Good." Viktor whispered back. Jayce smiled and he slowly pulled out with the filthiest, wettest noise Viktor had ever heard, making him go completely hot in shame and embarrassment. Viktor felt empty, his aching entrance trying to flutter and squeeze around nothing. 

"You did amazing... You felt amazing..." Jayce murmured to him. "Fuck, you felt so good, Viktor." He buried his face against his neck. Viktor could only cling to Jayce, swallowing shakily. "Do you want that hot chocolate now?" Viktor nodded weakly and Jayce pushed himself up. "I'll get it for you. Do you need anything else?" The way Jayce fussed over him after making Viktor feel so full, he could barely breathe, was so jarring that he almost started laughing. Viktor shook his head. 

"Jayce." He spoke his name weakly as Jayce sat on the edge of the bed, carefully slipping the condom off. Jayce glanced back at him in worry before his gaze softened as he spoke again. "Th-Thank you." 

"Of course." Jayce murmured softly. "I'll do that for you whenever you want. Whenever you need to clear your head or just relax, we can do it together." He promised, rubbing Viktor's leg comfortingly. He got up, tugging his pants back over himself. "Let me get your drink, okay?" Viktor nodded weakly. He watched as Jayce left the room before his mind drifted. How many times had the younger Jayce been forced to cum?? He looked like he'd been three releases into overstimulation with how he was crying.

Viktor felt bad. He really did feel bad, but... Good gods, he wanted to see more. His fingers curled into the blankets. Of both of them. He really was selfish, wasn't he? 

Chapter Text

Something crashed into-

"WHAT IS HAPPENING OVER THERE?!" Viktor nearly jumped out of his skin as the younger Jayce's voice cried out from beneath the mountain of pillows he'd landed on.

His space.

When Jayce pushed himself up, he looked completely disheveled and shaken. Viktor stared at him, wrapped in a blanket on top of a different pile of pillows. The younger Jayce struggled to stand up. "Y-You know my other self, don't you?? What does he do?? What is he doing??" He sounded downright shocked and terrified. Viktor didn't know how to answer for a moment. 

"Is something wrong?" He asked after a pause, his brow furrowing. Jayce nodded breathlessly, his whole face red. 

"Yes! Y-Yes, something is... something is wrong!" Jayce sputtered out. "I-I think I may be physically connected to my other self and I think he's being... active." Jayce said the word so awkwardly that Viktor weakly snorted. Jayce frowned at him. "This is serious! One moment I'm trying to sketch out blueprints and the next, I'm..." Jayce's ears went visibly red. "...not." He was pacing best he could along the blankets. "It's, uh, it's a problem! And it usually doesn't feel, uh... penetrative. But I think it just was because I have never-" Jayce instantly buried the lower half of his face in his hand again. He groaned as he put his head in his hands. "Viktor, I passed out! It was so much that I passed out!" Jayce blurted out, his face red. "It's a problem! Can't you stop him??" 

Viktor held the blanket a little tighter around himself, guilt heavy in his chest. "It is rather, eh, peculiar that you are physically connected to your other self. I have just met alternate versions whose selves have passed away in your world, yet they remain alive here. There should not be any kind of connection or bridge." Viktor said quietly. Or an Intersect, he thought to himself guiltily. Jayce threw his hands to the side helplessly. 

"But there is! Maybe my constant proximity to the Runes are causing it? Maybe I'm too close to a source of magic and it's causing some sort of tether?? Do you think he'd react if I started touching myself??" Jayce froze up and covered his mouth. "I apologize. That was inappropriate. But my point still stands!" He insisted. "If it goes both ways and there is no magic in that world, like you said, then something else has to be interfering! Are you sure there's no magic over there? Maybe there are mages who are just good at hiding themselves?" Jayce was clearly highstrung and agitated as he continued to pace. He'd picked up a pillow and he was squeezing it tightly, massaging the edges of it anxiously. Viktor made note of possibly getting him some kind of stress ball. 

"Jayce. Could you sit down and take some breaths? I would rather you not also pass out here." Viktor stated, Jayce looking up at him. He paused before giving a weak sigh. He fell backwards into another pile of pillows, still furiously holding the one. He closed his eyes and tried to focus, breathing and out. Viktor felt terribly guilty. Jayce had gotten so overstimulated that he'd passed out?? Viktor felt like a monster. Especially with how bad he wanted to see it. "I will look into the situation for you, as long as you continue to bear with it." Viktor spoke in a promising tone, Jayce groaning. "Have you made any progress on our research?" 

"I have, uh, I have blueprints sketched out for a device that could cut a hole open between worlds and seal it up again. I'll need you here for it since it'll likely be yours. I have to find a way to get it to synchronize to your Intersect magic frequency and it should be able to manipulate reality without affecting your health." Jayce said, his arms thrown back over his head. "I was also asked if we're able to make a large version of that, but for travel within Runeterra. Like a version of teleportation." Jayce waved his hand vaguely. "The Professor said a lot of people would be willing to invest in a project like that, especially with an Intersect at the reigns." Viktor paused. A large scale teleportation device. He assumed it was for imports and exports. "I have ideas for the crystals and the functionality, but I think I need your help creating the shape and placements." 

"Of course. I have a few days left in this world and then I will be back." Viktor told him. "How are you at the apartment?" 

"I've been rearranging my room. I'm, uh, I'm trying to find an arrangement that clicks, but nothing's really..." Jayce furrowed his brow and pinched his nose. "And it doesn't help that I end up losing all control of my legs and my... my lower half. At random, I might add." Jayce buried his head in his hand. "Does he have a partner?? I think it might be the same person each time, so I don't think he's sleeping around." Viktor watched as he fell back into quiet contemplation. His clothes were so wrinkled and his hair was an absolute mess. "I hope that doesn't happen at the Academy. The Professor approved a lab for our own personal use, but if this keeps happening, I don't even know if I can go in!" 

"Is it that bad, Jayce??" Viktor was a little taken back. Jayce paused, his mouth open. He seemed hesitant to respond before mumbling something. "Jayce?" Jayce glanced up at him in quiet embarrassment. Viktor paused before pushing himself to his feet. He carefully made his way down the pile of pillows he'd been sitting on before settling across from Jayce. "What's the matter?" He asked in a softer voice. Jayce's face was red and he averted his gaze. 

"...It feels really good, Viktor." Jayce finally seemed to admit in a small voice. "Whoever he's with feels really good and I feel like an absolute creep." Jayce pulled his legs a little closer to himself. "I'm not trying to be. I'm really not. But I... I end up getting lightheaded from how many times I..." Jayce swallowed heavily. "Is this too much information??" He asked quickly, his eyes going wide with alarm. Viktor jumped a little before shaking his head. "Are you sure??" Viktor nodded, keeping himself quiet and his hands clasped in front of him. "It isn't... It isn't like I hate it when it happens. I've never considered a partner or anything of the sort. The most I've done is tended to myself. This is a completely different feeling and it... it terrifies me how good it feels." Jayce put his head in his hand. "...Maybe I should look into services like that? Maybe the Rune is reacting to some unconscious desire."

"Jayce, please do not bring an escort to our apartment." Viktor stated, his brow furrowing. Jayce went red again. 

"I-I wasn't! I was going to go... wherever the escorts are. The brothel, maybe." Jayce gave a small shrug. "I don't know. I just... I don't know if I can handle this. Maybe if I get myself used to it, it'll be less intense." Jayce was really trying to figure it out and Viktor watched him quietly. He really didn't think he could bring himself to say anything about it. What it really was. Jayce glanced up at him. "Are you sure this isn't too personal? You're quiet." He said anxiously. Viktor blinked in surprise before shaking his head. 

"It is just curious to me. Why you have this connection to your counterpart, yet no one else I know seems to. Is it only with pleasure?" Viktor asked softly. Jayce hesitated. 

"I think so. If it weren't so... intense, I could brush it off. But it... it ruins me." Jayce admitted, it clearly hurting his pride to do so. "Good gods, it ruins me." 

"You have really never done anything intimate besides tending to yourself, Jayce? I hear many rumors. Lots of people are interested in you." Viktor said, a little surprised. Jayce glanced up at him. 

"I just... never considered it to be something important. I had other priorities." Jayce said, averting his gaze. "You've done stuff, I assume?" 

"Some things here and there." Viktor admitted quietly, hugging himself beneath the blanket. "A very brief sex friend or two. But never anything pene-" 

"Sex friend???" Jayce sounded so scandalized and shocked by the statement that Viktor burst out in laughter, hiding his mouth. "What??" Viktor only laughed harder before nodding. 

"Yes, Jayce. Sex friend." He replied with a smile. He snickered. "Close your mouth." He reached out and shut Jayce's mouth for him, though his eyes remained wide. "It is not a big deal. It is just an agreement made between two or more friends. If one needs relief, they can go to one of their friends for it. It is a relationship without the romance, but still based on trust." Jayce seemed shocked by that, covering his mouth and turning away. Viktor couldn't help but start laughing again. "I was quite strict with any sex friends. I never allowed any... below-belt penetration." Viktor scrunched himself up quietly. "I parted with them after my... my incident." Jayce stared at him before his shoulders sunk in dismay. "I hope they are well."

"Viktor, are you... looking for... any new ones?" Jayce stumbled over his words so badly that Viktor would've laughed if his face hadn't gone hot. "I-I mean, I... I'm not trying to be too much or... or anything..." Jayce trailed off, clearly struggling to find the words. Viktor watched him quietly.

"You would like to be sex friends, Jayce?" Viktor asked, making the other man choke on his breath and start coughing. He finally turned his head to the side, his eyes wide before he gave a small shrug. 

"If, uh, if you... if you're okay with that, I mean... I've never... touched another person like that." Jayce was fumbling again. Viktor watched him before giving a weak laugh. 

"You must have higher standards, Jayce. You have a nice face. Surely you can put it to use." He prompted, leaning back against his pile of pillows. Jayce flushed. 

"I've, uh, actually been spoken to a lot. And it's not... usually my face that people have a problem with. It's... It's me." Jayce managed. "I scare them off. You're... the only one who's come back after running away." Jayce's admission made something sink in Viktor's chest. He gave a small sigh. "A-And you’re familiar. I would rather it be someone familiar. And I'll follow your rules very closely. I promise. I-I won't do anything without permission." Viktor doubted that. "I'll even be quiet!" Now Jayce was just flat-out lying. Viktor glanced aside. He didn't know if he could, in good conscience, allow this. He felt so guilty. "Please, Viktor??" Jayce's plea made him glance up again. Fuck.

Viktor gave a heavy sigh through his nose. "You will respect my boundaries, Jayce. If you don't, it's over. I am... I am very serious about who I allow to see and touch my body." He was. Viktor always had been, which was why that man's betrayal had hurt so much. Jayce nodded immediately.

"I will! I will, I'll respect them entirely." Jayce promised, his eyes wide. Viktor sighed as he watched him fidget. He raised a brow at him. "Can we... Can we just do something? I don't really care what it is, just... something." Jayce managed, glancing up at him. "Just so I... I know this is... not just me misunderstanding and getting ahead of myself." Viktor wasn't sure how much clearer he could've been, but something told him Jayce had made serious mistakes before in his social comprehension. 

"...Alright." Viktor agreed quietly. Jayce paused and glanced up before his face went red as Viktor spoke again. "Sit up straight and spread your legs." 

Chapter Text

"I am less worried about you being strange about this first boundary. But, eh..." Viktor slowly sat himself down so he was straddling one of Jayce's legs. "What do you feel?" He slid his hips slightly forward and Jayce paused.

"...Oh, okay." Jayce got it, glancing up at him and nodding. "Yeah, th-that's okay." Viktor relaxed a little. That was one good thing about the magic world. He'd made a few mistakes revealing that fact to people in the older Jayce's world. It had gotten him hurt a few times, even. "What... is the first boundary, exactly?" Jayce seemed a little confused and Viktor gave a small sigh. 

"...To not treat me as if I am just that hole." Viktor stated quietly. Jayce went silent in shock and stared at him. "I was not worried about you with this one. It... has unfortunately had to be stated in the past." Jayce's shoulders sank and Viktor averted his gaze. "Second. Do not become rough with me without asking first. This is for mutual pleasure, but first and foremost, for my own comfort. Even before that happened, I did not like when people roughly handled me." Jayce nodded. He glanced down at where Viktor sat on his thigh, his face red as he watched Viktor absentmindedly rocking his hips. The sleep pants he wore were likely thin enough that Jayce could feel him. "Third. No penetration. Fingers are fine. Mouth as well." Jayce gave a speechless nod before fidgeting again.

"What about kissing?" Jayce blurted out, his eyes wide. Viktor stared at him in surprise. "Is that too...?" 

"Would you like that?" Viktor asked, a little taken back. Jayce's ears only flushed darker and he nodded. "Yes, we can kiss. Have you ever kissed anyone before?" Jayce gave a small shrug. "Jayce." 

"I get kissed when I'm confessed to sometimes." Jayce said, glancing aside. Viktor furrowed his brow. "I-It's fine." Jayce quickly added when he saw his expression. "I don't hate it, it just always surprises me. I don't feel forced. I... I like kissing." Viktor stared at him before his eyes softened. He leaned down, holding Jayce's shoulders. "V-Viktor- oh." Jayce made a soft noise as Viktor pressed their lips together. This Jayce was far clumsier, but he still opened his mouth when Viktor nipped his lip. Jayce fell back against the pillows, Viktor's tongue easily sliding over his. He did remember the spot that the older Jayce seemed to like and he pushed his tongue into it, Jayce felt shivering. Jayce was left panting and red-faced by the end of it, his eyes wide. 

Viktor was panting as well, his heart pounding. This Jayce tasted different. Sharper, cleaner. Likely the benefits of growing up in middle-class Piltover, the pristine City of Progress. It felt strange not to have hair brushing his jaw. Viktor stared down at him. "...Are you okay??" He asked after a moment. Jayce already looked like he was about to pass out. "Jayce??" 

"I-I'm fine!" Jayce blurted out, visibly swallowing. It made Viktor jump. "Sorry... Sorry, I just... I needed a moment to process. I, uh..." Jayce genuinely seemed speechless. Viktor stared at him before a weak laugh left him. "Viktor!" Jayce seemed to become embarrassed, turning his head away. 

"Nothing bad, Jayce. I am just not used to someone who... quite literally has no clue what he's doing." Viktor felt sick as he watched him. He wasn't an expert by any means. Not at all. But it seemed Jayce really didn't know anything. Jayce scoffed. Viktor kept watched as he leaned down, his hand ghosting over the bulge in Jayce's pants. 

"AH!" Jayce gasped and covered his mouth, his eyes wide. Viktor felt his face go hot. He glanced up, silently asking for permission as his fingers hooked Jayce's waistband. Jayce swallowed again before nodding. Viktor pulled his pants down enough for that length to spring out and Viktor swallowed this time. Yes, they were the same. This had just been inside of him. The thought made him squeeze a little. He was awful. This was awful. Viktor started to stroke his hand over Jayce's twitching length and Jayce inhaled shakily. "Oh... fuck..." He shivered a little. "Oh gods..." His jaws were parted as he pulled in heavy breaths. 

"No, no. Breathe properly, Jayce." Viktor said, his hand coming to a stop. "You are going to hyperventilate." Viktor softened his voice. "It's okay." It wasn't okay. Viktor wasn't okay. Jayce swallowed, clearly wanting to ask something. "Speak. It's okay." Viktor said softly. 

"Can we stop?" Jayce asked, his eyes wide. "I-I don't think I can handle it." Viktor immediately nodded, getting up and moving back from him. He hid himself back in his blanket again, feeling terrible. He'd done too much.

"I moved too quickly. My apologies." Viktor said quietly. He wrapped the blanket over his head like a hood. He felt sick, the younger Jayce's taste much more bitter in his mouth. His shoulders sank and he gripped the front of the blanket tightly. He heard Jayce sit up. 

"We can keep going if you want! Please don't cry!" The other man exclaimed, his eyes wide. Viktor startled, yet his vision blurred when he turned to look at him. Was he really crying? Viktor held his hands up to his face shakily. He was. He quickly shook his head, wiping his eyes. 

"No, this isn't... You said you wanted to stop, so I will stop. This is... I don't know why I am doing this." Viktor's voice strained a little. He swallowed shakily. The pillow fort gave a small tremor. Jayce furrowed his brow. 

"Viktor. Viktor, something's scaring you. What's wrong?? Did that bring up bad memories??" Jayce sounded worried as he pushed himself to his feet, moving over. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have-" 

"It is not you. It is me. It is my fault." Viktor managed quietly. Jayce stared at him in dismay. "This is all my fault." Tears started down his face and he was much more aware of it this time. He inhaled shakily, covering his mouth and trying to hold in his sobs. What the fuck was wrong with him?? The pillows in front of them were starting to dissolve, showing that empty white space again. The fort was falling apart and Jayce's eyes were wide. 

"V-Viktor. No, that's not true." He protested, a step heard behind him before Jayce awkwardly skirted in a circle so he could be in front of him. "Viktor-" 

"Stop." Viktor managed weakly. Jayce furrowed his brow, having been reaching out to him. "I can't. We've touched each other enough and I'm sorry." Jayce stared at him for a moment before it clicked and his eyes went wide. 

"Viktor-" 

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Jayce. I'm sorry." Viktor inhaled shakily. The space was growing dark. It was starting to rain. Jayce's eyes went wide as he watched trees and grass form around them, but it was distorted and sharp, like everything was made of glass. The pond opened up like a hole to hell behind Viktor. Tears ran down his face. "I think... I might be everything he told me I was." Jayce turned back to him in shock. He moved forward and took Viktor's shoulders and Viktor only stared at him. "I-I think I might be no better than he was." 

"Viktor, no! No, no. I'm-" 

"Viktor, what are you doing out here in the rain?" He'd never forgotten that voice. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, his whole body locking up. There was the soft crunching of footsteps approaching. "Oh, playful today, are we? You're going to catch a cold." Closer. "Come here, sweetheart." 

"STOP!!" Jayce's yell split through his space like an axe and Viktor jerked back from him, holding the blanket tight as the scene collapsed and disappeared. They were left in the white space, Jayce seeming shocked and terrified. "Viktor... don't put yourself through that again." He whispered in disbelief. "You didn't deserve what happened to you. I-I don't even want to hear an implication that you did. You didn't." Viktor stared at him quietly. But he was no better. "Just... Just because you lied to me doesn't make you..." Jayce fumbled with his words again as Viktor watched him. "I am upset with you. I am. But not... Fuck, not that much that I would ever think-" Jayce put a hand to his head. 

"Jayce." Viktor's voice shook. "I need to be alone." 

"No! No, Viktor, the last thing you need after that is isolation, please don-"

"Goodbye, Jayce." 

It was the dead of night when Viktor sat up in the bed. The older Jayce was still snoring softly next to him. Viktor glanced over at him and his vision blurred. He stretched up a hand and it seemed his tears had followed him into the waking world. "And what would you do? Would you hate me?" Viktor whispered in a strained voice. He inhaled shakily. "...I would." The laugh that left him was breathy, humorless, and bitter. 

He slipped out of the bed, grabbing his cane. He moved over to the door to the bedroom and out into the living room. From there, the door leading outside. Viktor clicked it shut behind him. He could hear the noises of late night Piltover around him. He trembled before moving out to the parking lot. He found Jayce's Jeep, opening up the trunk, which he knew Jayce never locked. He shut it behind him as he climbed in, curling up on the floor. He would go back when he felt better. 

...He might end up switching worlds from the back of Jayce's Jeep.

He still wore the older Jayce's fire station hoodie, completely zipped up. He wore thin grey sweatpants and he'd left with no shoes. His voice shook as he spoke again, the words sour and weak now. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-" He felt the tingling of magic along his skin. "I took the one less traveled by." His eyes fixed on the glowing butterfly that settled on his fingers. "And that..." Tears welled in his eyes. "...has made all the difference." 

Chapter Text

Viktor remained in the back of Jayce's Jeep for two days. He'd been asleep. He'd asked the Arcane to put him to sleep and, in exchange, he would teach it 'Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening'. Jayce's favorite poem. He was sure Jayce had been driving around, based on the bruises he woke up to. It felt like the car was off and stationary again. Viktor pushed himself up and glanced out the back windshield. The Jeep was parked one spot over from where it had been. So Jayce must've been driving. The position of the sun was different. Viktor took his cane. He clicked open the trunk and climbed out, shutting it behind him. He limped his way over to Jayce's door, shoulders sunken. He had no way to explain his disappearance. He had no way to explain himself. He knocked anyway. 

Viktor didn't hear anything inside and he stared at the door weakly. "Jayce?" He asked, his voice quiet and shaky. The speed at which the door unlocked was downright frightening and he flinched as he was pulled inside. The door slammed shut again. Jayce looked a mess, his hair and beard unkempt. He had the faintest bags under his eyes. Viktor stumbled as Jayce let him go, freezing up. The apartment was trashed. Vases and picture frames thrown to the floor, the table in the living room on its side. All of the blankets were ripped from the bed. A single tall, empty glass bottle on the kitchen counter. Viktor's hands were tight on his cane. Jayce stared at him and he finally looked away. 

"...I need to take my medicine." He whispered shakily. "Excuse me." He moved away from Viktor and back into the bedroom, stepping over the remains of a vase. Viktor was trembling. Had Jayce done this?? He stared at the mess. He didn't know what to do. This wasn't safe. He wasn't safe. Jayce wasn't safe. Viktor shakily moved over to the counter, reaching out to the bottle. "Don't. I'm not supposed to have that." Viktor startled, turning as Jayce took one more sip of water, swallowing down what seemed to be his last pill. He stood in the doorway to the bedroom, leaning against it. He buried his face in his hand. "...Where did you go?" 

"I was in the back of your Jeep." Viktor said softly. "You never lock the trunk." Jayce stared at him before scoffing in disbelief and shaking his head. 

"Okay, uh... why??" Jayce asked, a small, dumbfounded smile on his lips as he rubbed his forehead. Viktor held his cane closer to himself, his fingers shaking as his heart pounded. Jayce watched him a moment longer before giving a heavy sigh and turning, leaning his head against the doorframe. Viktor hesitated before approaching him. He stretched up a shaking hand, but Jayce politely stopped it. "If you were in the back of my Jeep for two days, you're due for a bath. I already cleaned up the glass in the bathroom. I'll... work on cleaning up the apartment." Jayce said quietly. Viktor trembled and hesitantly made his way into the bedroom. He stepped into the bathroom and his shoulders sank. The mirror was gone, nothing but the jagged glass edges that were bolted to the wall. The rest of the bathroom seemed untouched. 

Viktor moved forward and started the water, watching as it came down. His body was locked up, mostly from how similar it sounded to rain. He started to strip down again. He felt wrong. He felt wrong and gangly, like some other creature stuck in skin it didn't even like. He hated that feeling. Viktor swallowed before shakily moving into the shower and sliding the curtain closed. He struggled to reach the shower head, having to push himself up on his good leg. He pulled it down before holding it over his body. It didn't feel good. Nothing felt good. He did manage to rinse himself down before he couldn't take it anymore. He shut the shower off and left the shower head dangling before curling up in a wet ball on the floor, keeping himself pressed to the side of the shower. He buried his head in his arms, his knees pulled up to his chest.

Viktor finally broke out into tears, though his crying was quiet. He hiccuped softly, his fingers tightly gripping his wet hair. "Can you not just take me away?" He pleaded to the Arcane softly. "Both paths have been scorched. I have nowhere to go." His voice was shaking. He broke down into crying again. It all hurt so much. The door to the bathroom was heard opening and Viktor hiccuped. He kept his face buried in his arms. 

"...You shower fast now, huh?" Jayce's voice was quiet. Viktor only sniffled in response. "Can I open the curtain?" 

"No." Viktor managed in a miserable voice. He heard Jayce sigh and saw him sit down just outside it, leaning back against the wall. 

"Why did you leave, Viktor?" Jayce's voice was quiet. "You... said you would stay with me. That you would choose me. And then you left without a word in the middle of the night. Apparently to go hide in the trunk of my car for two days." Jayce sounded slightly baffled under a layer of frustration. "What do... What do words mean to you, Viktor??" The question felt like a knife to the gut. Viktor inhaled shakily. 

"I dreamed that I deserved what happened to me." He spoke softly and he heard Jayce go quiet. "And, even to this moment, I feel it may be true." 

"No one deserves that kind of thing, Viktor." Jayce sounded slightly horrified. "No one deserves to be forced into something like that." Viktor nodded, even though he couldn't see. 

"You are right." He managed. And yet he'd made this Jayce please him, while having him believe it was a dream. And yet he'd willingly pushed the younger Jayce into violent overstimulation over and over through his older counterpart. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "You are so very right." His voice strained as he broke down again. "Anyone who does things like that deserves to die. They deserve to die and never come back, no?" Viktor managed weakly. He gave a humorless laugh and Jayce was quiet. 

"Viktor. Stop talking like that. Please." Jayce begged softly. Viktor shut his mouth immediately, burying his face back in his arms. "I don't know why you suddenly think these things, but-" 

"I pulled you into my mind-space. You touched me at my prompting because you felt it was just a dream. You made me cum on your fingers for the first time over purple grass and under lavender clouds." Viktor spoke abruptly and Jayce fell silent. "Every dream you had of that place, it was mine. I told you everything I wanted to hear in that world that was entirely my own. I'm sorry, Jayce. I am nothing but a dirty, filthy harlot. Just a nasty, evil thing." Viktor spoke of himself with such venom that it brought tears to his eyes. "I don't think something like me is capable. I don't think something like me is deserving. Just another devil." 

Just another devil. 

"Just another-" 

"I'm coming in." Jayce interrupted his whisper and Viktor flinched as the curtain was pulled to the side. Jayce was soon kneeling in front of him on the wet floor of the shower, not caring about his clothes. "Viktor, look at me, please." 

"I can't." Viktor whispered. All he would picture was the younger Jayce staring at him with that horrified look. He felt like he was going to throw up. He startled as Jayce's arms wrapped around him and he was pulled against his chest, wet hair and all. He froze up, scared to move and break something else. 

"You just saw my apartment and you think you're the one undeserving of love?" The joke was weak and amiss. "Viktor, there's a reason I don't keep friends. And there's a reason the only one who stays close to me is my mother." Jayce spoke quietly. "Everyone's just been too polite to tell you about me. How fucked up I got from that fire and my leg. How I absolutely would've been dead by now if it weren't for you." 

Viktor's teary eyes went wide. "I... I played you into my hands like some kind of evil puppet master, how can you possibly-"

"The first time I saw you, you were making glass sculptures with your father outside your tent. Yours kept falling over. His would balance perfectly. But every time you built yours back up, the light through the glass would throw colors onto you. I thought it was beautiful. I wanted to speak to you immediately, but I was warned about getting close to you and I made myself stay away until I couldn't anymore. So when you called out to me in that pond, I didn't feel meaningless anymore." Jayce said softly. "Viktor, fuck everything about manipulating me, I was yours before you even knew it." His voice became strained and Viktor inhaled shakily. 

"...Jayce." Viktor sounded so uncertain and terrified, that he instantly felt Jayce's hold tighten around him. Jayce moved and pulled Viktor sideways into his lap so he could lean against him. Viktor needed a moment before he hiccuped and buried his face against Jayce's chest. Jayce was purposely positioning his arms to hide Viktor's scars and lower body from the open door. It was soothing Viktor in a way he couldn't quite understand. He felt protected again. Safe. He started to cry again. 

"Viktor." Jayce's voice was soft. Viktor hiccuped and looked up at him in confusion. Jayce gave a small smile. "Hey." 

Viktor paused as he stared at him, tears running down his face. "Hello..." He managed weakly in response before his eyes slipped shut as Jayce's lips met his. The kiss quickly became something desperate, both of their holds on one another being bruisingly tight. Viktor pulled back, panting as his body shook. Jayce cupped both of his cheeks, his eyes warm. 

"We can both be devils together." Jayce whispered softly, the words mending something in Viktor's fractured heart. 

Chapter Text

When Viktor arrived back at the fire station the day he was to switch over, he looked like a bedraggled stray. Benzo was already out in the lobby with Ekko, the boy holding a bag with some snacks. Benzo's eyes softened as he saw Viktor. "There you are. Jayce called me to tell me what happened. I was able to make out what he was saying the second time through." Ekko's shoulders sank and he moved over to him, reaching up and holding onto his sleeve. He was wearing Jayce's hoodie. The older man had insisted he have something of his. Viktor didn't know if he was ready to face the other Jayce. He gave a weak smile down to Ekko as Jayce greeted Sterling behind him. "Lobby is closed today. You both should be safe to switch back here in a week's time." Benzo told them. He glanced over. "Can't believe it until you see for yourself, hm, Talis?" 

"I'm afraid so, sir." Jayce answered quietly, stretching out his hand to Viktor, who gave a smile and caught his fingers playfully. Jayce gave a smile in response. "We can actually start training him when he comes back. I apologize for the mess we've caused the past few days." Benzo sighed, shaking his head. 

"Oh, you want a mess?? That boy, Mylo, blew the gasket on Engine 9 while you two were gone." He muttered. 

"Then Benzo blew a gasket!" Ekko piped up. 

"You hush." Benzo said scoldingly, pointing at him. Ekko giggled. "What are you to do when you get back?" 

"Head to the lower levels of Zaun. Find the Chirean. Ask for Scar and say that Benzo sent me." Ekko seemed to repeat. Benzo relaxed a little. 

"Good lad. Be safe." Benzo said, Ekko nodding. Viktor blinked as Ekko smiled at him and he managed one in return. He turned to look back at Jayce, who was watching him curiously. He blinked. 

-any moment! Like now!" Heimerdinger exclaimed. Viktor instantly stumbled backwards as Jayce turned to face him, his eyes wide. He seemed like he'd been arguing with Heimerdinger. "Viktor! Welcome back!" Viktor couldn't take his eyes off of Jayce and he quickly stumbled back as Jayce took a few steps towards him. "Viktor??" Heimerdinger stopped Jayce and hurried past him, moving to Viktor. Jayce's expression was unreadable. "Viktor, come here, please." Viktor winced as he lowered himself down to Heimerdinger's height, taking his cane once the Yordle held it out. "What's wrong, lad? You're shaking like a leaf." 

"Viktor. We have to talk. Please." Jayce's voice strained a little and Viktor flinched, tears already welling in his eyes. 

"Jayce, Viktor does not seem in the right mindset for any serious conversations." Heimerdinger said worriedly, his ears flicking. Jayce stared at him and his shoulders sank. 

"I can do it." Viktor spoke in such a trembling voice that even Jayce looked doubtful. "P-Professor, could you leave us?" Heimerdinger glanced back at Jayce before turning a serious look to Viktor. One that said he would have Jayce thrown into the darkest pit if any kind of abuse was happening at all. Viktor appreciated it, but he shook his head. Heimerdinger sighed. 

"...Very well. I will be in my office when you boys are ready." The Yordle said, clearly displeased about leaving Viktor alone when he seemed so scared. The door to the lab slid shut and there was a moment of silence between them. 

Viktor couldn't even meet Jayce's eyes and he tensed up as Jayce spoke. "You won't even look at me now?" He sounded upset. "You can leave me screaming for mercy and gasping for relief, but you can't even look at me??" Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and tears ran down his face. "You demolished your mind-space and you threw me out." Viktor gave a small nod. "Viktor!" Jayce snapped his name and Viktor inhaled shakily. "Can you stop acting like I'm about to hit you?? I'm not!" Jayce only seemed more upset by that. "I-I wasn't even that upset about it! I told you it felt good! You lied to me and you were going to use me again." Viktor froze up and quickly shook his head. 

"No. No, I couldn't do it. I couldn't. It made me sick, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I did that, Jayce. I am. Pl-Please forgive me." Viktor finally spoke in a voice that was barely a whisper, almost inaudible if everything else in the lab hadn't been silent. Viktor shivered, hobbling over to a desk and leaning one elbow against it. He hiccuped weakly. He finally gagged and dropped to his knees unceremoniously, yanking the trashcan from under the desk before becoming sick. He inhaled shakily, burying his face in his hand. "...Just another devil, Jayce." He managed. "All I have ever been. All I ever will be." Jayce stared at him in confusion and dismay. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Jayce." 

Jayce hesitated before taking a few steps forward. The anger seemed like it had left his body and he shakily lowered himself down to the floor next to Viktor. He reached out and placed the back of his hand to Viktor's forehead with a worried expression. "...I think you will do great things with your 'Hextech', Jayce." Jayce paused at Viktor's words, staring at him. 

"Uh, 'we'. 'We' will do great things with... with 'our' Hextech." Jayce said hesitantly, his shoulders sinking. Viktor shook his head, staring at the floor. "Viktor..." 

"I have a feeling Heimerdinger will understand now. And you would be better off without me." Viktor spoke quietly. Jayce instantly seemed to become distressed as he opened his mouth, but Viktor held up a hand. "Jayce, I have made my decision of where I am to Frost to. My last few months here will likely be spent among the elites and the Council saying their goodbyes and their false comforts. You can continue your Hextech endeavor on your own. I will be sure you get the funding. I will be sure your family forge remains." Viktor assured him quietly, his hands clasped in his lap. "Once I Frost, the tether I create between the two of you will likely vanish along with my Intersect abilities. You will not have to worry about that any longer." Jayce had gone quiet and Viktor squeezed his eyes shut again as he spoke.

"So you are disappearing. I'm losing you." Jayce said, his voice a little strangled. 

"Not much to lose, Jayce. Certainly not a friend." Viktor gave a weak scoff. "A friend wouldn't do what I've done to you." He shakily pushed himself to his feet. "Once I tell Heimerdinger, preparations for my Frost will begin. Especially with how close I've made my decision." Viktor moved around Jayce, heading towards the door. He reached out and started to open the mechanism before flinching as footsteps rapidly approached him from behind and a hand slammed itself down on the mechanism, locking the door in place once again. "Jayce!" Viktor turned, backing himself against the door with tearful eyes. He paused. Jayce was crying too. 

"So you’re just going to leave?!" Jayce yelled, seeming unable to control himself. "You're just going to disappear on me? Y-You said we would be partners, I never had one before. W-We were friends, I never had another one of those either!!" Jayce inhaled shakily and lowered his voice just a little. "You're just going to leave me behind?? I thought you didn't want to leave people behind." Viktor stared at him, his eyes wide. He swallowed shakily and placed a hand on Jayce's chest, pushing him back so he could straighten up again. He startled as Jayce grabbed his hand, desperately holding it to his chest. He could feel Jayce's heart racing and it hurt his own. 

"Jayce." He spoke as firmly as he could. "Maybe you do not realize it yet, but I have hurt you. I forced something upon you over and over and I even continued to do so after I realized." Viktor's voice was trembling. "Only a monster would-" 

"WHAT IF I LIKED IT?!" Jayce blurted out, his eyes wide and his face flushed completely red. "What if I liked it, what then?? What if I liked feeling like I was going to pass out from ecstasy and what if I liked feeling like I was being drained for everything I had?? What if I liked feeling all of my overthinking drop away only to feel pleasure??" Jayce was panting by the end of his questions, even his ears dark red. "I was more upset by the fact that I didn't know why it was happening! A-And even though I was upset with you, you have no idea how relieving it was to find out it was you!! Fuck, out of all the horrible possibilities, it just turned out to be my friend projecting pleasure through the Arcane!" Jayce squeezed his eyes shut. "I was so relieved it was just you, even if you lied about it." Viktor was completely speechless as he stared at him. 

"...But I tried to proposition you again. I tried to use you, you said it yourself." Viktor managed weakly. Jayce stared at him. 

"I... I know. And you did. You did, but you just apologized to me so hard that you vomited." Jayce said, his shoulders sunken. "I-I don't think I doubt the genuineness of your apology. And..." Jayce's face went dark red again, him glancing aside. "...maybe I just like being used." Viktor froze up and his own face went hot. 

"What??" He asked in shock. Jayce startled like a spooked cat, quickly smoothing over his hair. 

"What?" He echoed in a rushed voice, instantly unlocking the door and escaping into the hall. "Th-The Professor is waiting for us." 

"Jayce!!" Viktor sputtered as he called after him with wide eyes, watching as the other man glanced back with a completely red face. 

"W-We shouldn't keep the Head of the Council waiting, Viktor!" Jayce was heard calling out as he disappeared around the corner. Viktor was speechless as he stared after him. 

Chapter Text

Heimerdinger took the news startlingly well and, for a moment, Viktor wondered if something was wrong with him. Heimerdinger huffed as he hopped up onto his desk to be at eye level. He held out his hands and Viktor furrowed his brow, worriedly taking them. "I always had a feeling you would Frost to the other world. Even when you seemed so firm in your decision to stay here. I saw it, you know!" Heimerdinger prompted, smiling. "I saw the moment it began to waver and I knew! I knew it was love." The word itself shook Viktor to his core and he hesitated. "Oh, don't try to hide it, Viktor. You would never wear a top like this." Heimerdinger gestured to the older Jayce's fire station hoodie. Viktor instantly felt his face go hot and Heimerdinger's ears wiggled. "I am beyond happy for you, my boy. Love vs. Legacy is a hard decision to make. One that has driven me from my closest friend." Heimerdinger sighed. "I suppose I will not be receiving any more letters from him after the year turns." 

"No, Professor, I am afraid not." Viktor replied quietly. He glanced over at Jayce, who stood stiffly with his hands behind his back. His tiny microexpressions conveyed devastation and upset. But he kept a smile on the surface. "You will be sure that Jayce remains funded in his projects? And that his forge will remain??" Viktor asked, his voice worried. Heimerdinger nodded. 

"Of course, of course! I have no doubt there are many an investor willing to fund the last known project of an Intersect!" Heimerdinger insisted. "And Jayce, my boy, we can have you moved to a nice apartment just outside of-" 

"Can we wait on that?? Until Viktor's Frosted. I... I rather like his place. It feels like home." Jayce interjected in a quiet voice. Heimerdinger was momentarily surprised by this before nodding. 

"Well, you know what that means, Viktor. I did warn you." Heimerdinger said, wagging his finger at him as he turned back to face him. Viktor gave a heavy sigh through his nose as he turned his head away. "The Frost Galas! We'll only be able to have four due to the timing of your decision. Once a month!" 

"Frost Galas?" Jayce echoed, his eyes wide. 

"Elaborate 'going-away' parties where the elites will, no doubt, try to get me to stay. I can't imagine any of mine will go worse than Singed's did though." Viktor commented, Heimerdinger putting his face in his hand. 

"Oh, bolts and gears, don't remind me. What a mess that was." Heimerdinger muttered, his ears flattening. He sighed. "Regardless! The first one is likely to be held by the end of the week and I have no doubt-" 

"Allira." Viktor said, rolling his eyes with the weakest scoff of warmth. Heimerdinger nodded. 

"Councilor Salo would be thrilled to host the first Frost Gala. And now that you've made your official decision, you will be able to meet Councilor Merdarda face-to-face." Heimerdinger said, beaming. Viktor smiled. 

"Ah, of course. I have heard she is a lovely woman." Viktor said, nodding. She had also proved quite gossipy, but Viktor rather liked hearing what the elites were all up to without having to witness it. Heimerdinger nodded. 

"Viktor, I expect you back in two days so we can start going over your possessions and what to do with them." Heimerdinger said, Viktor nodding. "Jayce, I expect you back tomorrow to see what else you've cooked up with those blueprints!" 

"Yes, Professor." Jayce said quietly. They both were dismissed from the office and it was awkward as they made their way down the hall. Viktor jumped as he finally felt Jayce grab at his sleeve. "...Is this his?" He asked quietly. Viktor's face went hot and he nodded, accompanying it with a small shrug. Jayce let him go and watched him. "And you love him?" Viktor froze up and he squeezed his eyes shut, unable to bring himself to answer. "R-Right." Jayce's voice shook. They continued along, mostly in silence until they'd left the Academy. Somehow, even with people around, the streets were even quieter. They reached Viktor's apartment building and he started to follow Jayce up the stairs before startling as Jayce stopped and turned to face him.

"If you'd met me first, could this have turned out different? Would you have stayed?" Jayce sounded beaten down. Viktor paused and glanced up at him. 

"...Perhaps." Viktor said softly. "But I am afraid I cannot keep up with you, Jayce. Our minds may work in tandem, but everything else, you have already passed me by twice over." Jayce stared at him and he looked so upset that it hurt Viktor's chest. "Jayce. I'm sorry. I made my decision." 

"I-I know. I know, but..." Jayce hesitated before holding out his hand. Viktor paused. He glanced at it before looking up at Jayce again. "Please." Viktor sighed before taking his hand. Jayce moved up the stairs with him, still holding his hand the whole time until they made it back to the apartment. Once they were inside, Jayce didn't seem like he wanted to let go. It looked like the fort he'd mentioned was gone, though remnants of it were certainly scattered about. Jayce held Viktor's hand, turning back to him. His eyes were teary as he raised Viktor's hand and pressed his lips to his palm, sending a rush of heat through Viktor's face. 

"Jayce. That's not appropriate." Viktor scolded in a small voice. Jayce's shoulders sank and he released his hand, his own folding behind him. Viktor held his cane tightly. "Jayce, you cannot be serious. You were assaulted because of me. You were nearly coerced by me." Viktor's voice shook. Tears finally seemed to escape down Jayce's face as he turned his head away. "I forced you into something you didn't ask for until you passed out. And then I was going to use you! How do you not hate me??" Viktor's voice choked up. "I would've killed me by now!!" 

Jayce hesitated and he held out his trembling hand. Viktor stared at it before giving a heavy sigh, reaching out and holding it for him, intertwining their fingers. Jayce seemed to relax at that. "...You did try to use me." Jayce said quietly, Viktor feeling his chest tighten up with guilt. "...Can you do it again?" 

Viktor froze up and he met Jayce's eyes, his own blown wide. "Jayce." He stated, a little scolding, a little confused, and a little shocked. Jayce's face flushed and he looked ashamed. "J-Jayce, you..." He trailed off, staring at him in dismay. "You like kissing, you said." Jayce perked up a little and he looked so hopeful that Viktor almost keeled over. 

"I do. I do." Jayce insisted. He swallowed quietly. He placed a hand on Viktor's belly and Viktor's ears went hot. "But I want to kiss you here instead." He placed his pointer finger just above Viktor's pelvis and Viktor was frozen. He glanced up at Jayce in shock. "Please? We never have to talk about it again. I'll never ask anything else. I won't even try to stop you from leaving. I just... want to know. Please." Jayce was begging at this point and Viktor couldn't believe him. Jayce finally buried his head into Viktor's shoulder. "Please let me do this for you." Viktor shivered, not expecting the same words from this Jayce. 

"...Where?" Viktor finally asked, making Jayce instantly lift his head with wide eyes. He wordlessly turned and pulled Viktor along to his bedroom. Ah, there was the rest of the fort. Viktor could see lights shining along the inside of a blanket ceiling. Jayce quickly brought him to a soft-looking pile of blankets and helped him down. Jayce quickly looked away as Viktor began to slip off his shoes. Viktor watched him quietly. Once he was bare from the waist down, he kept his legs together. "Jayce." He spoke quietly. Jayce swallowed and glanced back over at him. "My kiss... if you would." 

"Y-Yeah. Of course." Jayce whispered, turning and moving over. He hesitantly placed his hands on his knees before glancing up at Viktor for permission. Viktor nodded and Jayce pushed open his legs, holding his thighs. One hand was higher to slightly prop his knee. "He's... already tasted you, right? I got a sweet taste on my tongue a few times." Jayce mumbled, his thumb brushing through Viktor's soft hair around his folds. 

"Mhm." Viktor managed, his face flushed in embarrassment. "He keeps saying I taste of butterscotch." Jayce paused. 

"What's butterscotch?" 

"I... I don't know." 

Chapter Text

The way this Jayce lapped at him was curious and eager. He panted against Viktor's folds, dipping his tongue just inside with each lick. "Oh..." Viktor barely managed the noise. He felt Jayce give a shuddering breath against him. "J-Jayce, m-make sure to breath- HAH!!" Viktor yelped as Jayce suddenly pressed his tongue deep inside. Viktor's hips lifted, twitching madly. "D-Do you even kn-know what you're doing??" 

"No... No, I'm just... I'm just finding where it's sweetest." Jayce managed quietly. He moved back in, lapping at Viktor's clit messily. Viktor gasped and clung to the blankets beneath him. "I-I think he's probably a lot better at this than me, but I'll do my best." Jayce said, the words promising against his folds. He continued to lick firmly before he pulled back, staring at Viktor's folds. Viktor was panting, but he hesitated as he saw that look. 

"Jayce. Jayce, what are you thinking??" He asked breathlessly. Jayce met his gaze just for a moment before leaning forward, burying his face against Viktor and sucking. "AH!!" Viktor nearly shrieked and he covered his mouth before twitching as Jayce's tongue plunged inside him, Jayce shoving his face close in order to reach further. "Gods! Jayce! Jayce, breathe! HAH!!" Jayce gave one more suck before pulling away, breathing heavily as Viktor's slick dribbled down his chin. He felt so wet with Jayce's spit and his own slick on top of it. Jayce panted, Viktor shivering as he felt his thumbs pull his folds apart. "St-Stop staring, Jayce."

"Right... sorry..." Jayce's voice was breathless and he leaned forward, licking right up inside Viktor.

"HAH! Fuck! Hah!!" Viktor swore as Jayce sucked and licked between his folds, his breathing hot. Jayce was so desperate, like he'd found an oasis in a desert after years on end. To his embarrassment, Jayce used his fingers to spread him wider, licking as hard as he could and sinking his tongue deep into Viktor. "JAYCE!!" Viktor cried out as his toes curled, feeling Jayce let out a breath of excitement. "Jayce!!" He buried his face deeper. "Jayce, good gods, breathe!" He had to grab Jayce by his neatly styled hair to drag him off and Jayce groaned. 

His lips and chin were a mess as he took in deep, shaking breaths. He had his head slightly tipped back and his face was flushed as Viktor untangled his fingers from his hair. Even with how worked up he was, he still shut his legs. "Jayce, you have to pace yourself! Please!" He scolded, his eyes wide in shock. "This is the last thing I would ever want to explain to anyone if you end up hurting yourself!" Jayce panted quietly, squeezing his eyes shut as Viktor wiped his face clean with one of the blankets. Viktor paused as he glanced down. Jayce's bulge was strained in his pants and there was already a wet stain appearing at the tip. Viktor swallowed a little as he stared at it. Jayce seemed to notice and his ears went dark, him covering himself. 

"S-Sorry... Sorry, I, uh, I got too ahead of myself. I... You taste... You taste incredible." Jayce whispered in slight awe. Viktor felt heat flush his face again. "Can you... Can you do that again??" Jayce sounded a little humiliated to be asking, but he gestured to his head again. Viktor stared at him. He couldn't believe it for a moment before reaching out and curling his hand into Jayce's hair. He pulled his head back and Jayce shivered. He swallowed again and Viktor opened his legs again. Jayce couldn't move his head while Viktor had his hair and it was clear he desperately wanted to. "Viktor, can I please-" When Viktor let him go, he was still expecting Jayce to, at least, finish his sentence before he dove back in. He didn't. 

"JAYCE!! HAH!! Ah!" Viktor gasped, his toes curling again as Jayce thrust his tongue in and sucked. "AH!!" Jayce was breathing heavily and Viktor felt one of his hands leave his thigh. Jayce's breathing became erratic as he groaned into Viktor's folds. Viktor shivered before pushing his hips against Jayce's mouth. "Do not get distracted." He stated in a shaky, yet firm voice. Jayce's pupils were blown wide as he nodded, dutifully returning to licking Viktor open. Viktor's hips were twitching so much and he squeezed his eyes shut. Jayce sucked one more time before suddenly delivering a firm, gentle bite to his clit.

"JAYCE!!" Viktor gasped as he felt the knot in his stomach snap, but he suddenly screamed as Jayce sucked his slick down eagerly, taking everything Viktor was giving him and making his body spasm. When Jayce pulled away, he was panting and he finally pressed a real kiss to Viktor's clit. "Jayce. You did not just swallow all of that." Viktor was in shock for a moment, his whole face hot and his entrance feeling licked clean, which was somehow the dirtiest it had felt the whole time. 

Jayce glanced up at him, licking his lips. "Why?" He asked breathlessly, his eyes wide. Viktor was speechless as he sat up. "Was that good for my first time??" Jayce sounded hopeful and Viktor didn't know what to say for a moment. He glanced down before covering his mouth, his face going dark red.

"Did you release just from eating me out?" Viktor asked in shock, knowing he'd really only given Jayce four seconds to please himself with his hand. Jayce blinked before looking away again, seeming unwilling to answer. "Good gods, Jayce." He finally scoffed and lightly smacked his shoulder. "You must learn to breathe!! You are going to end up smothering yourself if you do not regulate your breathing!" Jayce jumped a little, his eyes wide. 

"R-Right! Sorry." Jayce sputtered. Viktor sighed before managing to get up on shaky legs. Jayce quickly got him his cane. Viktor shivered a little. "Hey, Viktor?" He glanced back at Jayce. "Do I get to come with you to the Frost Galas or is it just for elites?" Jayce asked nervously, his hands already fidgeting in front of him again. "Would you let me go with you?" Viktor blinked. 

"O-Of course I would let you go, but I do not know how wise that is, considering some are still bitter about your alleged threat towards me." Viktor said, his brow furrowing in concern. "I do not want to find you bloodied in an alley somewhere, Jayce." His voice strangled a little and Jayce blinked, a little taken back. 

"Won't I be staying by you when I'm there?" He asked in quiet confusion. "Because we're friends." Viktor paused, unsure how fitting the term still was when he'd just had to drag Jayce by his hair from between his legs. Jayce stared at him, completely genuine, and Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. 

"I suppose you would be then, yes." Viktor said quietly. Jayce seemed relieved by that. 

"Do, uh... Do you need help with anything? I can make food or I can get you clothes." Jayce offered awkwardly. Viktor paused. Jayce seemed anxious again

"I will not make you do more for me than you already have, Jayce. You... You did very well." He praised quietly. "Thank you." Even the simple acknowledgment was enough to brighten the other man's eyes. Viktor paused. "But... if you... if you do happen to make food, please make enough for both of us." The wraparound request was quickly picked up and Jayce nodded. "I... I'm going to take a bath."

The hoodie covered him enough to leave him some dignity as he limped out of Jayce's room and into the bathroom next door. He shut the door and got to work on plugging the tub and watching it fill with warm water. He sighed quietly, sitting on the floor next to it. He stripped off the hoodie and neatly folded it up. He could see 'Talis' stitched on the inside of the hood and he felt his cheeks go hot. What was he doing?? Viktor was eager to slip in once the bath was ready and he inhaled shakily as he felt the warm water cradling his worked-through folds and the pain he carried in his back. He squeezed his eyes shut, sinking down into the water. 

He wasn't sure how long he laid there with his eyes closed, but he paused as he heard knocking. His face flushed and he pulled his legs to himself. "What is it, Jayce??" 

"I made some sandwiches. They're toasted. Ham and cheese." Jayce said quietly, having cracked the door a little to speak to him. Viktor paused. Did they both make that as their quick go-to food? He wondered if this Jayce's would be as good. 

"Did you use butter?" He asked, leaning against the tub. 

"Maybe." Jayce answered a little too quickly. "You don't like butter...??" He sounded worried now and Viktor couldn't help the weak laugh that left him. It turned into real laughter and he sighed. 

"Jayce, just come in here." He rolled his eyes, leaning against the side of the tub. Jayce pushed open the door, having changed his clothes into something more casual and much less stained. He was holding a large plate and Viktor was taken back. "Did you use all the bread??" 

"There wasn't that much left and I didn't know how hungry you would be!" Jayce protested. "I can buy more when I go out tomorrow." There were at least five sandwiches here, all of them cut into triangles, which Viktor found both amusing and endearing. Jayce paused before lowering himself down and leaning against the wall with the plate balanced between his knees and the tub. Viktor's eyes softened and he shifted around, reaching out and taking one. He ate it quietly, unable to stop the smile that sprung to his face. "It's good?"

"Very good. Thank you." Viktor said quietly, sounding pleased. Jayce smiled to himself, looking relieved. "Eat, Jayce." Viktor prompted gently, able to see his tiny peeks. Jayce picked one up and started to eat as well, closing his eyes in delight. Viktor watched him quietly, wondering how he was still hungry. 

He scoffed to himself softly. May the gods give mercy to whoever Jayce did that to next. Viktor had no doubt the older Jayce had gotten whiplash from the suddenness of an orgasm and the taste of butterscotch on his tongue. 

Chapter Text

His space was different. 

It held an endless, starry dark sky and the ground was nothing but shifting, cool-toned colors with an occasional wisp of pink and white. In front of him was a pond. His pond. The edges became that dark purple grass and he could only see rolling lavender clouds reflected in the water. His shoulders were relaxed. 

"///////."

Viktor inhaled softly. "That is not my name anymore." He spoke in a gentle, reminding tone. 

"Sorry..." His own voice met him. But not the one he had now. The one from before. Viktor glanced over quietly at his child self, who sat next to him. They had a hand stretched out, tracing the surface of the water. However, it did not ripple under their touch. They seemed to furrow their brow. "Viktor." He nodded, his eyes softening as he saw them breathe in relief. "It is so very hard to keep track of everything." His child self whispered, staring down into the water. 

"I can only imagine." Viktor responded softly. "This is the first time you have spoken to me. Have I done something to warrant such a personal experience?" 

"I love my Intersects so very much. It saddens me when they are hurting. I try so hard to reach you, even in a world where my influence is weakest." His child self replied quietly. "You truly believe your paths have become so dull?" His child self's shoulders sank. "Scorched earth, as you called it?" 

"No. No, I was not in my correct mind. I believe there is a hope. But guilt remains heavy and it makes me ill." Viktor admitted quietly. His child self glanced over with luminous eyes. 

Something entered his space.

"Do not look yet." 

Something crashed into his space. 

Viktor was completely frozen in shock and his hands had tightened in front of him as he looked over at his child self in slight panic. "It is okay. Just let them observe. Let them see each other." His child self murmured. Viktor was trembling, but he gave a weak nod. "If I had enough energy to allow you past the limit, I would. But it is beyond what I can do, with all I have to look over." His child self gave a weak sigh. Viktor was anxious, able to hear talking behind him. He glanced over and his gaze weakened as he saw the starlight streaming down his child self's face.

"Perhaps we can switch over ourselves?" Viktor said softly, reaching out to them. His child self wrinkled their nose as Viktor gently wiped their face. 

"You would Diverge from me?" His child self asked weakly, seeming hurt and upset. Viktor's eyes widened. 

"No, no. We would use our own energy to step between words. That Jayce is refining such a tool." Viktor explained quietly. His child self frowned. 

"It is Divergence, Viktor. When you decide you will no longer rely on me." His child self insisted weakly. "A former Intersect of mine has already done this to me. Please do not make me watch as you turn your back." More starlight trickled down his child self's face. "I do not think I can handle it again. He comes and goes between worlds as he pleases and he has his own... his own so-called tool. He refuses my guidance and he refuses my help. It hurts me so. I love you Intersects so very much. My special souls, meant for two worlds." His child self hiccuped. "I just wish I could spare the magic to keep you in both." 

"The magic Jayce will use for the task is of your essence. An indirect way for you to help." Viktor took his child self's hands gently. "He synthesizes it from the energy that has already fallen to his world. You would not need to produce more and you can still be my guiding hand." He spoke gently and his child self stared at him with wide, teary eyes. Viktor watched them with a soft gaze. "Please do not cry. I could not possibly turn my back to you after the comfort you have brought me."

"It is not often an Intersect needs my special attention, but you were hurt. You were hurt in more ways than physical." The starlight continued to pour down his child self's cheeks. "I could not watch you suffer." His child self's voice choked up. "The last Intersect I cared for after such a fracturing experience turned his back to me. Please do not do this to me too." His child self pleaded to him. Viktor reached out and cupped his child self's cheeks, their hands raising to hold onto his. 

"I would do no such thing. I would do no such thing to you." Viktor assured them gently. His child self hiccuped. Viktor finally looked over. There they were. Both Jayces seemed more than confused as they spoke to each other, the older one seeming to be letting the younger one mess with his fingers. The younger Jayce was in his Academy uniform, while the older Jayce wore his firefighter pants and an open jacket with a black shirt. Were they getting along? Viktor felt a little bit of hope in his chest. He could tell the younger one was trying to explain where they were with grand gestures and an insistent expression. The older Jayce kept having to gently put a hand on his chest and guide him away every time he seemed to unconsciously take a step forward. The way he guided his younger self around like he was a kid with too much energy almost made Viktor laugh.

"These are the two that make your heart ache?" His child self stared at them. "How odd you reached for the same person in both worlds." Viktor felt his face go hot and he glanced away. "Do you believe they love you?"

"I would certainly hope so." Viktor said quietly. "With the words they have used and the way they have acted." His eyes moved back to them. "...I think I may adore the both of them, unfortunately." His child self tipped their head. 

"Is it so unfortunate?" They reached out and placed a glowing hand above Viktor's heart. They seemed to listen. "...It beats for him." Viktor felt his face go hot again in embarrassment. His child self gave a weak smile. "Is it truly so bad to love?" 

"If I have to leave one of them behind, it would be." Viktor said softly. "Once I Frost, I will no longer hold such a space to see them." His shoulders were sunken and so were his child self's. 

"Could I meet them?" His child self's question was soft. "Would you take me to meet them? They have already noticed you." Viktor blinked and glanced over. Both Jayces had moved towards him, but they were stuck behind another invisible barrier. The younger one was pacing and calling out, the older one shooting him a tired look before giving Viktor a flat one. Viktor broke out into a smile. A grin tugged at the older Jayce's lips in response. He raised a hand and Viktor gave a small wave back. 

"The older Jayce is not familiar with you like the younger one is. And the younger one is, eh... quite touchy. He may be a little overwhelming." Viktor warned his child self, gently fixing their hair and clearing the rest of the starlight tears away with his thumbs. His child self sniffled. They picked up their driftwood cane and Viktor stood up, carefully helping them to their feet. He was only that white silhouette from the shoulders down, his body swirling with colors. His hair remained an ethereal white, as did the hair of both Jayces. 

"One is from a world far at the edge of my hold. My influence is weakest there. They practically do not believe in me at all." His child self said, reaching up and taking Viktor's hand. 

"That one knows poetry." Viktor said, seeing his child self perk up. "He knows the poem I promised to teach you by heart." That seemed to quell his child self's anxious fidgeting. He moved forward with his child self and he shot a very firm look at the younger Jayce, strictly mouthing the word 'BEHAVE.' and making him shrink down a little. 

The older Jayce could only seem to watch with a softened curious gaze, a juxtaposition to the younger one's excited, awed eyes. Viktor gave a small sigh of exasperation and led the Arcane to them. 

Chapter Text

When they stepped through that invisible barrier, his child self tugged Viktor in the direction of the older Jayce first. The older Jayce's eyes softened. "And it's you?" He asked, reaching out to Viktor. Viktor gave a weak smile and took his hand, giving it a squeeze before he nodded. 

"This is Jayce Talis. He is 32 years old and he is a firefighter." Viktor told his child self, who turned to look at Jayce with wide eyes. 

"You! You love my Intersect? You care for him so?" His child self asked urgently, making Viktor's face go hot. The older Jayce seemed taken back before his gaze warmed and he knelt down with a small grunt to speak to Viktor's child self. 

"I do. You're the one that lets him go... to another world like that?" He asked gently, Viktor's child self nodding. The older Jayce spoke to the Arcane in a gentle, comforting tone. The Arcane itself was far from a child, but it always enjoyed soft voices and soothing words. Viktor paused. He didn't even have to turn around before he had his arm out in front of the younger Jayce's chest when he tried to move forward.

"Jayce! Behave, good gods. This version of you does not know the Arcane." Viktor stated scoldingly, turning to him with narrowed eyes. "Let him meet it." The younger Jayce seemed antsy about that, giving a small huff as he looked past Viktor. 

"I didn't think he'd be older too. I feel a lot better about how inexperienced I a-" The younger Jayce startled as Viktor quickly shoved his hand over his mouth with darkened cheeks. The younger Jayce watched him before mumbling an apology against his palm. Viktor sighed and moved his hand down. "...And he's so much easier to talk to, isn't he? Keep up with?" The younger Jayce sounded defeated, but he gave a weak chuckle. "I can see why you chose him. He's... He's a lot better for you." Viktor's shoulders sank as he watched him. "R-Really. He'll be a lot better." His voice stuttered and he glanced away. Viktor gave a small sigh, reaching out and taking his hand. The younger Jayce seemed surprised by that, glancing back at him.

Viktor knew what he wanted and he rolled his eyes in slight exasperation. He carefully repositioned their hands so his fingers would slip between the other's. He clasped the younger Jayce's hand gently. "Is that better?" He asked, raising a brow. The younger Jayce had relaxed and he nodded with a small smile. There was a squeak behind him and Viktor paused as the older Jayce appeared, cradling Viktor's child self in one arm as they clung to his shoulder. 

"Is this what you meant by 'constant physical contact'?" He asked his younger self with a raised brow as he gestured to their hands. 

"Typically. Sometimes it's closer." The younger Jayce answered honestly. The older Jayce paused at that and glanced over at Viktor, whose shoulders had tensed up. His child self's eyes were shining, the Arcane likely never having been picked up and carried around like a real child before. They looked awestruck. Viktor couldn't help the small laugh that left him. It also helped to distract him. His child self looked at him with wide eyes. 

"You have never been carried. I suppose you would not have the time or need for it. Does it feel nice?" Viktor asked gently, his child self nodding eagerly. The older Jayce let out a slow breath as he stared around. Viktor stared at him. He glanced at the younger Jayce, who did seem to understand. He let him go and Viktor moved over to the older Jayce, whose attention instantly moved to him. 

"Hey." The older Jayce murmured softly. "You look like you're made of moonlight, you know that?" He asked softly. Viktor felt his cheeks go hot. His child self gave a small giggle. They kicked their legs and the older Jayce laughed a little. He carefully set them down and they went limping over to the younger Jayce, who eagerly knelt down to meet them. Viktor turned back to the older Jayce and moved closer. 

"Hello." Viktor responded softly. He reached up and his fingers lightly played with the older Jayce's glowing hair. "Says you, with a head full of starlight." The older Jayce's eyes softened. He reached out and his fingers gently rested against Viktor's cheek. He hesitated before tipping his head into his fingers. "Are you alright? I know this is quite overwhelming. Magic. Your world is not familiar with it." 

"No. No, it's not." The older Jayce mumbled, glancing around the endless expanse of stars and the swirling ground. Viktor reached out, placing his hand to his chest. The older Jayce's heart was racing. Viktor's shoulders sank. 

"It is alright. Nothing here will harm you." Viktor gave an exasperated sigh. "At least, he will not on purpose." He nodded back towards the younger Jayce and the older one cracked a smile. 

"Oh, come on. He doesn't seem too bad. I was like that once." The older Jayce said quietly. Viktor jumped as his hand moved to rest on his hip. "That kid... the 'Arcane'?" 

"The Arcane." Viktor confirmed with a nod.

"That kid tells me you're meant for two worlds." The older Jayce murmured quietly. "That you... are the only you. And that's what makes you so special." Viktor felt his face growing hotter and he gave a small nod, his gaze averting. 

"And what do you make of that?" Viktor asked softly, his voice so weak that it was barely even a whisper. The older Jayce watched him with those ever-observant eyes. 

"That maybe that's why you look at both of us with such warmth. That it's why he confides his need for contact in you." The older Jayce said quietly. "That, if you're meant for two worlds, maybe your heart is too." Viktor stared at him and guilt came crashing down, forcing the tears up to his eyes. 

"...I'm sorry." Viktor managed weakly. The older Jayce's eyes widened and he quickly shook his head, his thumbs moving to wipe his tears. The older Jayce leaned down, his lips hovering over Viktor's and he waited, clearly and silently asking for permission. Viktor couldn't believe him, but he granted his request regardless, pressing their lips together. He felt the older Jayce's hand slide up into his glowing hair and he inhaled softly, the larger man's other hand squeezing his hip. His kiss was gentle and it deepened gradually, all at Viktor's pace. He stepped closer, his eyes slipped shut. He finally pulled back and he felt the older Jayce laugh against his lips. 

"Fuck, I forgot I can give that kind of look." He seemed amused and Viktor froze up. He glanced back at the younger Jayce, expecting something angry or jealous. Instead, the younger Jayce only stared at him in yearning and quiet defeat. It was so strong that Viktor felt his heart tighten. He could see his child self glancing between them curiously. They seemed to say something to the younger Jayce and his whole face went completely red, all the way to the tips of his ears as he shook his head. Viktor glanced up at the older Jayce. The older Jayce scanned over his eyes and his lips quirked in amusement. "...Go." He prompted gently. 

Go?

Viktor's eyes widened and he startled as the older Jayce guided him to face the younger Jayce. The younger one's eyes widened and he instantly stood from his kneeling position, his body stiff and uncertain. Viktor didn't know what to do for a moment before taking a few steps forward. The older Jayce must've made some kind of prompting motion because the younger one finally moved forward after glancing over Viktor's shoulder. He hurried over to Viktor, his brow furrowed. "What... What's wrong?? Is something wrong? You look like you're about to cry." He fretted quietly. "What can I do? Anything-" 

Viktor stepped forward and pressed their lips together, silencing him. The younger Jayce inhaled shakily and his hands awkwardly moved, unsure of what to do. They finally settled on Viktor's arms as he eagerly pressed back against him. When Viktor pulled back, the younger Jayce's mouth was still open in shock. Viktor gave a weak laugh as the first tear rolled down his face, gently shutting his mouth for him. "I..." The younger Jayce clearly couldn't pull anything together and Viktor paused as he heard footsteps. They stopped a little bit aways and Viktor glanced back at the older Jayce, who waited patiently. 

Viktor gave a small nod and the older one carefully approached, making sure Viktor could see him before he had Viktor lean back against him, the older one carefully taking one of his hands and pressing his lips to his fingers. Viktor's face flushed and he turned back to the younger one, who was still holding his other hand uncertainly. He gave him a smile and the younger one glanced up at the older Jayce. Seemingly receiving permission, he hesitantly raised Viktor's hand to his own face, pressing his lips to them. 

"Is this really alright?" Viktor whispered between them worriedly, keeping his head down. He jumped as his child self appeared next to them, their eyes shining. 

"My Intersects deserve love. They deserve more love than I can give." They insisted softly. "I think they will do." His child self sounded content as they looked between the Jayces and Viktor relaxed. 

"You approve?" The older one asked, seeming amused by that. His child self nodded, seeming proud. They puffed their chest up quietly, leaning on their driftwood cane. 

"I do!" 

Chapter Text

Viktor certainly did not remember inviting Jayce into his bed, but when he woke in the morning, that cleanshaven face was buried against his arm and the other man's hand was resting against his hip as he slept quietly. He did not snore like the older Jayce did and he wondered if that was something that would develop. Even more so, he was wondering why Jayce had invited himself to Viktor's bed. He thought about waking him before Jayce made a small noise and buried his face closer. Viktor rolled his eyes tiredly. He wasn't sure what this Jayce's deal was with not being able to breathe. "Good gods." He muttered. "Jayce." He nudged the other man, who let out a muffled groan of protest. "Jayce, you are not breathing again. 

"Yes, I am." Jayce's voice was still muffled as he spoke in a complaining tone. "I can breathe fine." 

"If you insist." Viktor rolled his eyes. "What are you doing in my bed?" Viktor asked, raising a brow. Jayce seemed to pause at that and shifted, seeming confused. 

"...Aren't we together?" He asked, a little taken back. Viktor froze up at that and Jayce pushed himself up into a sitting position. "You... kissed me. The Arcane liked us. Even the older me let me..." Jayce trailed off, stumbling over his words in confusion. "Did... Did that not actually... mean anything?" With how boisterous he usually was, hearing his voice drop to little more than a whisper was startling and Viktor's shoulders sank. "The Arcane approved of us together. My older self did too. Did you just feel pressured because...?" Jayce slowly sat back on his knees, this being the most miserable Viktor had ever seen him. He looked crushed. "I-I even asked and everything, I-" 

Viktor reached out, snagging his sleeve before pulling Jayce over him. Jayce startled and caught himself, his hands on either side of Viktor's head. His eyes were huge as he stared down at him. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. He reached up, sliding his thumbs along Jayce's clean jaw before pulling him down into another kiss. Jayce shivered and pressed into it, his eyes instantly slipping shut. Viktor pressed his tongue right beneath Jayce's and the other man exhaled shakily. His hands curled in the pillows next to Viktor's head. When they pulled away, Viktor's face was a little hot, but Jayce had turned a whole other color entirely. He didn't seem to know what to do with himself for a moment. 

"I meant what I said about not being able to keep up, Jayce." Viktor said quietly. "But I suppose, instead of letting you storm on ahead, I could at least ask." He looked him over. "Could you please slow down and wait for me?" Jayce's eyes widened and he stared at him before nodding. 

"Y-Yes, yes, I can do that." He insisted. Viktor raised a brow at him doubtfully and Jayce frowned. "I can, Viktor. I can slow down. Just... how does he usually do that? Maybe I can-" 

"I do not want you to do things how he does. You may both be the same person, but it was very much, eh..." Viktor glanced aside. "...only part of the appeal." Jayce stared at him. "Your eagerness is as endearing as it is overwhelming. I am not one of your projects, Jayce, but you must treat me just as carefully, if not more." Viktor requested quietly. "I am a little more broken and I cannot be fixed with a simple weld." His voice strained a little and Jayce's shoulders sank. 

"You are not broken, Viktor. And I don't need to fix you because you've fixed yourself. You pulled yourself together and you opened yourself up. You chose to do that for us." Jayce said quietly, his gaze averting. "Me, especially. I really... I really thought you hated me..." He admitted. Viktor stared at him in shock. "I-I mean, I would understand. I... I grabbed you when we met. I... I kept forgetting to ask if I can do things..." He gestured to the bed helplessly. "I still forget to ask to do things." Viktor reached up and pulled Jayce down, making him yelp. He was on his elbows now, his bigger body covering Viktor's like a weighted blanket. Viktor held his shoulders before burying his face against one of them. "I just... I'm just saying I understand why you... why you're going to go with him." Viktor furrowed his brow. 

"...I'm sorry, Jayce." He said softly. "I have neglected you. Nearly all of our closest interactions have been in my mindspace. Not out here." Jayce paused, starting to say he didn't mind that before Viktor shook his head. "I neglected you and I tried to manipulate you because I was afraid of being selfish. Wanting two at once. I figured it was a way I could still have you, even if not romantically." Viktor's voice became strangled with guilt and he felt it in his chest too. One of Jayce's arms moved to cradle the back of his head. "I can show you the proper attention, but I need you to slow down. I cannot keep up, I'm sorry." 

Jayce nodded, his eyes warm and eager. He stared at Viktor for a moment, seeming to be struggling with what he wanted to say. He kept glancing away before glancing back again. Viktor raised a brow before startling as Jayce blurted out his thought. "A date!" He went red and hid his face. "I-I mean, I want... I want to take you... for a date." He mumbled. Viktor stared at him in surprise before bursting out in laughter, Jayce's eyes wide. 

"Jayce, you will bury yourself to the chin inside me, but a date is what gets your tongue tied?" Viktor teased weakly, his own cheeks hot. Jayce startled before sputtering. "Yes, Jayce, a casual date would be nice before we are to attend a formal event like a Frost Gala." Jayce looked downright relieved by Viktor's approval. Viktor glanced down and quickly turned his head away, trying to hide his face. "...Gods, you and that weapon." He mumbled. Jayce paused and he went red down to his neck as he quickly sat back on his knees, hiding his bulge. Viktor watched him before sighing. "Could you help me out of my lower garments?" 

The question seemed to shock Jayce and he nodded wordlessly. He reached out, hooking his fingers into Viktor's waistband before pulling his pants and undergarments off in one slide. Viktor startled a little, not expecting to be exposed so suddenly. He swallowed before lifting his legs and holding them together. He stuck his hand between his thighs. "Here." He instructed. He heard Jayce audibly gulp before he heard the shuffling of clothing. He knew he'd already seen it a few times, but that massive head suddenly appearing over his clit made him shiver. He could feel the length resting between his folds. Jayce pressed his body up to Viktor's legs, carefully holding them off to the side of his head.

"Th-This, uh, doesn't hurt your hip, does it?" Jayce asked worriedly, glancing up. Viktor shook his head. "Can I move?? Please?? This... fuck..." Jayce exhaled shakily. "Please?" Viktor didn't even finish his nod before Jayce was moving his hips. The way he did so felt like he was genuinely trying to thrust inside without actually doing so. Viktor gasped and tipped his head back, squeezing his eyes shut. Jayce was rubbing against him so fiercely that he was downright embarrassed. "Viktor... Viktor... fuck..." Jayce whispered his name in a strained voice as he squeezed his eyes shut, burying his cheek against his leg. He was already throbbing and Viktor knew it wouldn't take long at all. He wondered if there was some way to work up his endurance. "Oh, gods..." Viktor startled as Jayce gave a heavy thrust and his release suddenly spattered Viktor's navel. "Sorry! Sorry, fuck..." Jayce sputtered.

He pulled away so soon that it was almost criminal. Viktor felt himself clench unhappily and he swallowed. "J-Jayce, I am afraid I am nowhere near done." He said, his shoulders scrunched up as he laid back against the pillow. Jayce blinked. He glanced down before reaching out. "Mm!" Viktor's toes curled as Jayce started to rub circles on his clit with two fingers. All of a sudden, his fingers started to move down and Viktor's eyes widened. "Oh! Jayce!" The two fingers pushed inside before Jayce twisted them, getting his wrist to a comfortable position. Viktor had his mouth covered. The way Jayce thrusted his fingers was clumsy and fast, Viktor getting the feeling that he'd never done this before. "Jayce! Jayce, slow! Slow, please!" Jayce almost slowed to a stop, his eyes wide. 

"Sorry... fuck..." Jayce sounded utterly frustrated with himself and Viktor inhaled shakily as he pulled his fingers out. "Can I just use my tongue again? You liked that last time." He sounded a little defeated and Viktor watched him before slowly opening his legs and nodding. Jayce laid on his stomach and opened his mouth before gasping as Viktor held his head back by his hair. "Hah?!" 

"Pl-Please do not be too hard on yourself, Jayce. I am... I am pleased that I am the first one you are trying all of these things with." Viktor admitted, glancing aside. Jayce stared at him and Viktor gave a weak smile. "I do mean it." Jayce relaxed a little. "Now, please, remember to breathe." His voice became stern and Jayce nodded best he could. "Will you??" He nodded again, his hands settling on Viktor's thighs. "Alright..." He released his hair. 

Jayce did not remember. 

Chapter Text

"So what do you think?? The Professor and I were arguing over two different ones, but I thought this one would serve the purpose better." Jayce turned to Viktor with a grin. He'd brought him to the Academy, showing off their newly designated lab. Viktor leaned on his cane, staring around the room before glancing down. He lifted his cane, tapping it down against the ground and hearing soft clanks. "Metal flooring. The other one had wood and I figured that wouldn't work out too well if the base of the magic was the Cleaving Rune." Jayce said, shrugging quietly. Viktor nodded. It did make sense. "I pushed for high ceilings too, since I'm not exactly sure how big the rip will be if I get it to work..." Jayce trailed off, mumbling to himself and tipping his head as he turned, scanning over the room again. 

Viktor could see the way he was already picturing things around the room in his mind at rapid speed. At least he could put that overabundance of energy towards something. He couldn't help but imagine where some things would go as well. "This will be satisfactory. You are truly so certain you will be able to rip your way between worlds? One of the theories in your journal is that it would act as a black hole. Are you prepared for such a thing?" Viktor asked uncertainly, turning to look at him again. 

"Everything here is bolted to the floor. Each table and even the stools. The chairs I'll have are outfitted with magnets. They'll roll across the floor, but they shouldn't ever detach, unless the rip happens to be strong enough to pull the up the paneling." Jayce replied, turning to him with a smile. "And if it is, I'll have the Stitching Rune at the ready." Viktor looked him over with a softer gaze, a smile on his lips. Jayce seemed to pick up what he was thinking and a playful look appeared on his face. "What? Didn't think I would be planning like this?" 

"Mm, you've certainly not given me very good reason to think you would." Viktor replied, Jayce giving an unserious, offended scoff in response. "But this lab will do nicely. Lots of room and, as you said, everything is secured to combat the unpredictability of the rip." Viktor was impressed with it as he moved around, his cane softly tapping against the floor. Finally, he turned to look back at Jayce with a small chuckle. "You have done well, Jayce." Instantly, the other man seemed to light up from the praise and Viktor watched him in amusement. "When do you plan on starting here? We should have brought the blueprints from my apartment..." Viktor mumbled. 

"The Professor says it's going to be wiped down and sterilized before we can use it. He insists magic is a tricky thing and we can't risk any kind of serious bacteria or insects switching their way between worlds." Jayce explained, coming up next to Viktor. "Even if you’re an Intersect, there isn't exactly a way to know if everything is 1:1." Viktor nodded, staring over the bare tables quietly. "...You do like it?" Jayce sounded slightly eager for more praise and Viktor rolled his eyes warmly before looking over at him. 

"Yes, Jayce, I like it. It will prove quite sufficient." Viktor affirmed to him, Jayce lighting up again. "You were quite excited to show me this place if we are not even allowed to use it yet." Jayce paused. 

"Well, I was headed out anyway, I thought you... I thought you might want to see it." Jayce answered quietly, his hands folded nervously behind him. "Before you have to go back." Viktor paused and glanced over at him before his eyes softened and he nodded. 

"And where were you exactly planning to run off to, Jayce? You do not have classes today. I was quite surprised to see you trying to put on that uniform when you had no need." Viktor commented. Jayce paused and glanced to the side. 

"I was going to go get a sewing machine and the fabrics I'd need." The statement took Viktor by surprise and he turned to him in confusion. He asked what for and Jayce seemed momentarily taken back this time. "...For the gala. Our outfits for the Frost Gala. We're supposed to dress up, aren't we?" Viktor could only stare at him in complete and utter shock for a moment, his hand tight on his cane.

"Jayce, surely you are not under the assumption that you have to make the outfits yourself. As... As conceited as this may sound of me, I am certainly not poor, being an Intersect. I essentially receive sponsorship just for existing. There are many a boutique around here that we can choose from." Viktor didn't usually like to flaunt his benefits, but he didn't want Jayce putting that much work on his own shoulders. Jayce paused and shook his head.

"I want to make our outfits." He said quietly. "I... I sew really well. Mama was a seamstress, so I... I learned a lot from her before she passed." Viktor stared at him and his brow furrowed before he stepped forward, reaching out to him. Jayce took his hand in response. "If she'd... If she'd survived the storm, I think she would've been devastated. She would've lost too many fingers to frostbite for her to continue doing what she loved. She refused to use a machine and she did everything by hand." Jayce sighed as his fingers played with Viktor's absentmindedly. "I think I could have made a career out of it, but my heart laid with... with magic. Forging. I've always liked metal more than cloth." Viktor watched him sympathetically. 

"Jayce, you would only have four or five days to create two outfits that are on par to a Piltover elite's gala. I do not doubt your skills, but it would not be smart of you to put that pressure on yourself." Viktor's hand moved to gently tug at his sleeve. "And I do not know if you noticed, but you are over 6 feet tall. For both of us, you would require a lot of fabric and a lot of time." Viktor raised a brow. "And I am not quite sure I would trust you to stay on task the whole time." 

Jayce scoffed and glanced to the side before his eyes moved back to him. "I mean, the top I have in mind for you wouldn't be hard to make at all. Just some cutouts around here-" Jayce pressed his pointer fingers to either side of Viktor's neck and traced them around his shoulders to the back of his neck. Viktor felt his face go hot as Jayce lifted his arm, tracing spirals down it. "Some simple embroidery, very, very simple. Then, I can have the sleeves end in a fingerless glove, though I might add some kind of extra cuff in order to match the grill of the collared part, which would start at the neck-" He gently pressed his knuckle to Viktor's neck before tracing it down the front of his body. "All the way to here." He stopped at his navel before those golden brown eyes fixed on him again. "No, your top wouldn't be hard to do at all. Only thing I'll need from you is measurements." Jayce seemed amused as he cupped his waist and Viktor froze up before glancing down. Jayce's thumbs nearly touched in the center of his belly and Viktor went hot, instantly swatting his hands away in embarrassment. 

"J-Jayce, this is really unnecessary of you. We can simply buy the outfits." Viktor said quietly, keeping his gaze averted to the floor. 

"But I don't want to." Jayce stated matter-of-factly. "I want to make them. Besides, none of the boutiques would incorporate asymmetry like I would. Piltover likes symmetrical, but Zaun isn't like that, are they?" Jayce sighed, his brow instantly furrowing again. "Because they can't be..." Viktor stared at him before giving a small wave to get his attention. "I, uh... can I admit something?" Jayce asked quietly. Viktor nodded. "When you Frost away, I really don't think I'm going to have that funding that you and the Professor say I will." Viktor paused and stared at him. "But maybe if I show off a talent that'll appeal to... wealthier people... then they'll keep funding me." 

"Jayce, where has this doubt come from?? Heimerdinger will certainly take you to events. He is already working on restoring your patronage with the Kirammans." Viktor furrowed his brow. "You will be successful here." 

"I don't think I'll want to go to any kind of events when you leave." Jayce admitted, his voice soft and trembling. "The only one I'll have again is Cait and she's forced to stand still and look proper next to Cassandra's side at events." Jayce's eyes moved to the ground. Viktor reached out, guiding Jayce's hand to play with his fingers again, which he completely gave in to. Viktor could feel him tracing them. "I'm sorry, Viktor."

"...You wish to work on erasing my limit first then, I assume?" Viktor asked, glancing up at him. "We only have the magic we do. We cannot ask any more of the Arcane." Jayce nodded. "If we are unsuccessful, I must go... and you must stay." Jayce nodded, though his eyes had teared up. Viktor startled as Jayce pulled him into a tight hug. It was the quietest he'd heard Jayce been ever since he met him. It must've been serious. He wondered if the news Heimerdinger had shared with him would be any help or if Jayce already knew. "The Professor says the investigation into your abuse was concluded. People have been expelled from the Enforcers. At least two will be sentenced." Jayce paused and glanced up at him. "I pushed and pushed for that investigation to continue. So did he." Jayce teared up a little. "You will have justice for... the wrong that was inflicted upon you because of me." 

Jayce pulled him back into a hug and Viktor could feel his desperation and distress in every twitch of his fingers they dug into the fabric of his Academy uniform. Viktor's heart sank and he reached up, his fingers sliding into Jayce's carefully styled hair. It made the larger man relax against him a little. Viktor gave a quiet sigh. "We should get going if you wish to start your project today." He prompted gently. Viktor instantly nodded. He barely gave Viktor any time at all before he had him by the hand and was excitedly tugging him to the door. Yet the tremble in his fingers remained.

Chapter Text

"Oh, isn't that transport for one of the Councilors?" Jayce interrupted Viktor mid-sentence and he turned, his eyes wide. Instantly, he let out a heavy sigh through his nose. He and Jayce were both carrying rolls of fabric. Jayce also had a sewing machine. It was an older model, though the clerk had been trying to push him towards a new one. A carriage was outside his apartment, with a carriage driver and two well-groomed horses. Salo was seen leaving the front of the building, looking both disappointed and suspicious before his eyes landed on Viktor and widened. He pointed to him, his Enforcer bodyguard following his quick footsteps.

"Viktor!" Salo exclaimed. "There you are!" He paused as he noticed Jayce, slowing to a stop in front of them with a raised brow. "Oh. And you." 

"Allira!" Viktor stated his name scoldingly and Salo sighed. 

"Yes, yes, you both live together, the Yordle took us through that whole talk. It was the longest fifteen minutes I have ever experienced." Salo stated dismissively. He turned to Viktor. "Might I speak with you alone?" Viktor nodded and turned to Jayce, who looked a little uncertain. 

"Which rolls do you plan to start with? Give me the one you will not use yet." Viktor told him. Jayce nodded, setting down the machine before they traded fabric rolls. "You have your key?" Jayce nodded again, giving a small smile. A smile pulled at Viktor's lips in response before he nodded towards the building. "You may go, Jayce. I will be back." Jayce glanced at Salo, clearly intimidated as he moved away, the older man watching him with an unamused look. Viktor rolled his eyes and scoldingly tapped Salo's shoe with his cane.

"Is he bothering you at all, Viktor?? He looks as if he'd be bothersome." Salo added, crossing his arms over his chest. Viktor bit back what he wanted to say about that one before glancing to the side. "So, I've heard you made your decision." Salo's voice took on a softer tone as he fully turned to him. He glanced him over uncertainly. "And you are sure of it?" Viktor nodded quietly. "As you know then-" 

"You have volunteered to host the first Frost Gala." Viktor stated. Salo stared at him, genuinely seeming speechless for once.

"Oh- That wasn't supposed to be the- How did you know that?" 

"Because why would you not?" Viktor allowed a weak smile to pull at his lips and Salo broke out in laughter. 

"Clever, Viktor, very clever. Yes, I am hosting your first Frost Gala." Salo sighed heavily. "It was supposed to be a surprise." 

"It would not have been, even in the slightest." Viktor replied, raising a brow. Salo's lips quirked in amusement. "And what was going to be the buildup to said surprise?" 

"Getting an outfit for you was going to be a good buildup, but it seems you may have other plans regarding that?" Salo tapped the roll of fabric he still held before turning to look back at the apartment with a raised brow. "Are you having him make your outfit?" He sounded perplexed and fascinated at the same time. 

"He wanted to do so. And he is making himself one as well. I am bringing him as a guest, since he is my research partner." Viktor said, Salo seeming more than surprised by that. "Unless I am not allowed." Viktor added quietly, his hands tightening on his cane. It seemed to distract Salo from asking how Jayce planned to make the outfits in less than a week.

"Viktor, I would not deny you the right to bring a guest to your own Frost Gala. It is going to be my first and likely only time hosting such an event. The gardeners and landscapers are being put to work as we speak." The implication that the party itself was to be held outside made Viktor scrunch up a bit. "But I actually came to speak to you about something else a bit more important than the garden to me." Salo turned back to him fully. "You." Viktor paused. "From what I understand, the Intersect is to recite their heart-learned poem at the beginning of the Gala." Viktor froze up at that. Right. Right, how had he forgotten? Good gods, all those elites- "However, you do not strike me as a 'stage and spotlight' person." 

"...Absolutely not." Viktor agreed in a weak voice. Salo's sharp eyes softened on him. 

"I would like to offer the idea of projecting your image out into the garden as you recite it. You can recite it in a room alone or with someone else, just so long as the projector can film you." Salo explained, his hands crossing under his elbows. "Therefore, all eyes will be on your image, yet not on you." Viktor stared at him and his shoulders relaxed a little as he nodded.

"I-I think that would be quite nice." He admitted, already exhausted just from the momentary panic he'd felt. Salo nodded. 

"Yes, I thought you would feel better about that. And I would assume, since he is hand-making your outfits, that you plan on staying a substantial amount of time at the Gala?" Salo asked, tipping his head. His fingers tapped against his own arm. Viktor blinked before giving a small nod. "Viktor, please, I am not hounding you. If you are planning on staying, I have to assign you protection. My estate is one of the best regarding security and comfort, but perhaps... not to an Intersect. And... certainly not to an introvert." Viktor blinked and glanced up at him, Salo holding up a hand. "I mean it politely and out of concern." He stated quickly. "Parties do not seem your avenue, Viktor." 

Viktor stared at him. "They are not. I feel enough... crushing attention on me as it is, let alone all in one place." He admitted quietly. He was, in all honesty, absolutely shocked that Salo had taken notice of what made him uncomfortable and what didn't. It felt like Salo had been studying him, but not in the curious and cooing way the other elites did. Perhaps when Allira Salo did bother with people, he studied them in order to privately address anything he'd notice. Perhaps he was just that kind of analytical only with people he considered friends. Viktor... felt guilty. His hands tightened on his cane again. Salo glanced down, but he didn't say anything, turning his body away again. 

"I have a library on the first floor of my estate. No one else will be allowed that far in and you would have one or two guards with you at any given time. And your, uh... guest. It is quite an easy place to retreat to if you become overwhelmed. Of course, you'd be welcome to any books you may find interesting and you are able to rejoin the party at your leisure, should you decide to do so. You can also leave at any time, as well. Once your recitation is over, you technically have no need to stay." Salo spoke quietly and Viktor shook his head. 

"I would not leave after just the recitation. This is an event that may likely only be held once or twice in your lifetime. And only once in mine. It would be a waste to miss it, even if the idea alone of an event made to celebrate me is downright paralyzing to think about." Viktor sighed as he turned his head away. Salo watched him sympathetically.

"Viktor, we both know if there is one thing I excel at, it is making things about me." Salo rolled the word off his tongue proudly as he placed a hand to his own chest. The statement was so matter-of-fact and so unbelievably blunt and true that it startled real laughter out of Viktor. He raised a hand to his mouth and Salo seemed awfully smug as he crossed his arms. "Exactly. So, all you'll have to do is recite your pretty words into a projector and then you can have drinks and read books with the Talis boy until you wish to leave. I would arrange transport for you." Viktor stared at him quietly. 

"...You pay attention far more than I thought, Allira. I... I am cold to you." Viktor said quietly. 

"I know. How am I to blame you? Someone as powerful and attractive as myself- Stop making that face." Salo wasn't even looking at him again and Viktor broke out in laughter again. Salo chuckled and turned back to him. "Someone like myself is certainly not trustworthy in the eyes of a child yanked quite literally and unceremoniously from a place like Zaun. One thrusted into a spotlight for nearly their whole life and pulled between worlds like a marionette between strings. To become a man whose only reprieve from such heavy gazes was a place where he was to live in a tent... And even then..." Salo gave a weak smile. "I'm honored you, a Zaunite Intersect, even hold enough trust to stand within this distance of an upper wealth Piltovian like me."

Viktor stared at him before his eyes averted to the ground. "Allira..."

"Perhaps you do not believe it, Viktor, but I enjoy your presence. Would I have thought so if I had not been able to meet you as the Intersect? No, I wouldn't lie and say I would've." Salo gave a quiet sigh. "Perhaps I only became a friend because you were an Intersect, yes. But I only stayed a friend because of you. Someone unafraid to be a little brutal towards me. A little cold." 

"Not used to being talked back to by anyone except other Council members, I know." Viktor said, giving a weak scoff. Salo laughed. 

"And, once again, you would be right." He said, grinning. His fingers tapped along both of the arms now. Good gods, Viktor didn't think he'd seen this man stand still once this entire time. Maybe he was so used to watching Jayce do it that it had taken him the whole conversation to even process it. "Rest assured, Viktor, I am not going to be an ungracious host to the Frost Gala's cause. No matter how awkward, sharp-tongued, or avoidant he may be." Instantly, Viktor's face went hot with embarrassment and he shot him a glare. Salo grinned. "Oh, who said that last part?"

Viktor couldn't help the weak laugh that left him. It... did feel nice to genuinely laugh. Not a fake or forced one. Salo continued to play innocent, holding his chin.

"Hmm, curious." 

Chapter Text

Viktor reached his apartment, unlocking the door and slipping inside. He paused, already seeing fabric strips laid out all over the floor and the hum of the sewing machine in Jayce's room. His eyes softened. He set his roll down before carefully moving past the room and taking a peek inside. Jayce's face was pure focus as he carefully guided the fabric through the sewing machine. Viktor allowed himself a small smile before turning and moving further down the hall back to his bedroom. He knew that if he dared distract this man now, who knew when he would return to his sewing? He was so determined to do it. Viktor set his cane against the bed. He left the door... open.

He would leave the door open. 

Even though he decided it firm enough, his hands still shook at the thought. This was Jayce. He... He trusted him. 

The Arcane had gifted him a new space. 

It was a mix of all the ones he'd been in before. Half of the endless starry sky was consumed in lavender clouds. Piles of pillows and blankets laid around in dark purple grass. His pond was soft and glittering. The puffier blankets lay around it. There was even a ring of trees surrounding the pond and Viktor's chest felt warm as he approached it, his eyes wide. He could already see two children. The smaller one was chasing after the lanky, taller one. And there was... Viktor smiled as he stepped into the ring. The older Jayce was laid back against a pile of pillows, his hands clasped over his lap. His eyes were closed and he looked content. His child self was chasing Viktor's. 

Viktor carefully settled himself down next to Jayce, who opened his eyes and glanced over at him. "Hey." 

"Hello." Viktor replied softly, lying down against his chest and resting his cheek against it. "Have you been waiting long?" 

"Days and months and years." Jayce answered with a grin. Viktor rolled his eyes as he scoffed at him, listening to the older man's calm heartbeat. "...It's a little embarrassing that you get to see how chubby I was as a kid." Viktor paused and glanced over as he watched their child selves playing together. 

"I think it's rather cute." Viktor said after a moment, Jayce scoffing and turning his head away as his ears went red. "Are you holding up well, Jayce? You have had a lot to process." Worry crept into Viktor's voice again as he watched him. Jayce turned his head back to him with soft eyes. He glanced to the side again. 

"I, uh, I keep having words repeating in my head. What's... a 'Frost Gala'?" Jayce asked quietly. Viktor's eyes widened as he stared at him. "I keep hearing it in my voice. Or, uh, his voice, I guess. He sounds excited. Is it something important for you?" Viktor was speechless for a moment before nodding. 

"...Once an Intersect makes their Frost decision, a Frost Gala is hosted once a month for them. It is said to be a celebration, but most never attended the ones for the last Intersect and the ones who did hardly remember it. I do not doubt the elites of the other world will spend their time trying to convince me to stay. It will be a large garden party. The other Jayce is eager to join me as my guest. He is even making our outfits as we speak." Viktor gave a small, amused smile at the thought. "He was insistent that he could." Jayce sighed. 

"I can't say I know how to sew, so I wish him luck." He said in quiet amusement. He looked Viktor over before his brow furrowed ever so slightly. "...are you sure you'll be alright going to a party like that? Won't everyone be looking at you?" Viktor glanced aside. 

"Why? You do not like that?" He tried to tease gently. Jayce's gaze softened as he rolled his eyes before his hand slid up into Viktor's hair, absentmindedly playing with it. 

"You don't like that, Viktor." Jayce said softly. "A bunch of people staring. Saw it when I was walking you out of the encampment. You were too nervous to come into the break room at the station too." Jayce rubbed small circles on the back of Viktor's head. "You don't like so many eyes on you. Will you be alright?" Jayce sounded genuinely worried and Viktor felt a bit warm. 

"I will be fine, Jayce. I have worked out accommodations for myself with the host. He is a... a friend of mine." Viktor finally managed. It was difficult for him to admit it. He wanted to tip his head back into Jayce's hand, but he didn't. "J-Jayce, do you often hear his thoughts?"

Jayce paused. "It's... It's hard to tell. Because we both have the same voice and because I never know if my medicine is making some of my thoughts feel interjected. I knew this had to be something else this time since I would never use the word 'gala'." Jayce gave a small laugh. "And, uh, now that I... met myself, I think it's easier for to actually understand why some things actually... happen up here." Jayce gestured around his head vaguely. "It's been a lot the last two weeks, but... some of the things I'm learning actually make me... a little relieved." And he did sound relieved. "A little bit after I met you, I kept having these rapid thoughts about going to a trial. I genuinely believed I had relapsed so hard, I couldn't remember that I had done something awful." His voice strained. "I was so paranoid, I couldn't even come to work."

Viktor's shoulders sank as he watched him. "He was to go to trial, yes. I heard him speak of his research for the first time there." He said softly. He reached out and rubbed his cheek as Jayce put a hand on his own head. "I apologize, Jayce. I like to think I would have helped you to figure out these things sooner." He sat up. "You have not drank since my departure?" 

"Doing my best." Jayce answered weakly with a smile. "It's just... a little hard still having your smell in my sheets, but not having you there. You being... beyond somewhere I could actually reach you." Viktor's eyes weakened and he gave a small sigh. "I got you some clothes. Nothing too much and nothing too fancy. Just some button-ups, some hoodies. Two pairs of jeans, although I'm sure you're used to, uh, something like dress pants, based on the other me's clothes." 

Viktor was a little stunned. "...No, no, I will wear them. You... went out and bought me clothes?" Jayce stared at him before nodding. He finally sat up too, his brow furrowed. 

"Should I not have? I can return them." Jayce said quickly. Viktor shook his head. 

"No! No, I was... I was just surprised. Th-Thank you... Jayce..." Viktor felt warm on the inside and Jayce stared at him for a moment before a smile quirked his lips and he reached out. 

"You know, whenever you talk about something that makes you happy in this place... you give off this, uh, pink glow. It's faint and it makes all your features warm." Jayce commented quietly, his fingers brushing over Viktor's cheek, which went hot in response. Jayce's smile grew wider. "I guess you didn't know that." Viktor shook his head, flustered. "I, uh, I hate to ask something embarrassing like this, but, uh... I woke up with... the taste of butterscotch in my mouth the other-"

Viktor startled and instantly went red hot, covering his face and hiding it in his hands. He glanced over, seeing the kids playing among the trees a good distance away. Jayce stopped talking instantly, only giving an awkward cough as he watched him. "I... I apologize, I... He is... He is so eager to... touch another so closely. He has never done so." Jayce glanced aside.

"I'm... still the only one you've let inside, right?" Jayce asked quietly. The question was as dismaying as it was embarrassing. Viktor gave a small nod. "Okay... I just... I just wanted to be the only one who..." Jayce's brow furrowed and he wouldn't meet Viktor's gaze. "I mean, it's your body and it's entirely your choice. I know he and I came to a... an agreement about you, but I... still wanted to be the only one you trusted to do that for you..." Every word seemed more difficult than the last for him and his shoulders sank. "...I'm sorry, I don't mean to be... controlling of you..." 

"N-No, it's alright." Viktor said in soft embarrassment. "I can... I can understand your sentiment. With how shared the sensations are between you two, I do not believe any actual... penetration would be necessary on his end. But... he feels neglected enough. Like a side piece or a shadow to you." Jayce glanced up at him. "I do not want him feeling like that, Jayce. That is not how I see him." Jayce gave a small sigh through his nose and glanced aside. This was clearly difficult for him and his hands tightened up a little. "...I fear you are not as alright with your agreement as you are trying to appear." 

"...Is he?" Jayce asked after another moment. 

"He is just happy if I look at him, let alone pay closer attention. He is desperate for anything I can give, which also... somewhat distresses me." Viktor admitted. Jayce's eyes softened a little in sympathy. "He very much feels secondary to you, which I do not want for him. I do not want either of you to... be upset over this." Viktor said softly. "Over me. But I cannot have clear favor for one over the other." His eyes fell to the ground and his shoulders sank. "I cannot pick one road to take. There is too much in my chest and my heart and my head for it." Tears pricked in his eyes. "My only other option would be to turn heel and leave both roads behind. I cannot hurt only one if I choose neither." 

"Could you actually leave us?" Jayce asked worriedly. Viktor glanced up at him and the first glittering tears ran down his face. 

"Could either of you let me?" Viktor responded weakly. Jayce stared at him with wide eyes before quickly scooting closer and reaching out. He pulled him into a hug and Viktor hiccuped shakily. "I-I'm sorry, J-Jayce. I'm sorry that my heart is meant for two worlds. I am sorry that I am so selfish and I am sorry that you must feel as if I am not looking at you, but I am. I promise, I promise I am, Jayce, I just-" 

"Hey, shh, shh." Jayce buried his face against his neck, nuzzling it. Viktor nearly started crying as more tears ran down his face. He shook his head. 

"You do not deserve a burden like this." Viktor whispered, his shoulders completely sunken. Jayce quickly took his shoulders, holding him out. 

"Stop talking like that. Please." Jayce's voice was firm at first before softening. "You are not a burden, Viktor. You... are one of the best things that has happened to me in a long fucking time. And if having to share you... god, with myself, of all things... is what I need to do to keep you, I will." Jayce sighed. "I'm... I'm actually more okay with the other guy still being me, as crazy as it is." Jayce reached up and wiped away Viktor's tears. "Just... let me change my request... Okay, please hear me out on this." Jayce took his hands and Viktor paused. 

"I know I'm only able to be with him at the same time whenever we're here. But if he... if he is going to fully have sex with you and you trust him enough to, I want to be there to make sure he does not fuck it up. I don't want him to hurt you or make you uncomfortable, even a little. Even by accident." Jayce said firmly. He hesitated and glanced away, his ears red. "Is that alright...?" Viktor's face was flushed and he managed a small nod.

"I-It is agreeable, yes." He managed in the softest voice. "You worry for him hurting me that much?"

"Accidentally. And, if he's anything like how I was at that age, if he does hurt you during something so intimate, he'll fucking hate himself. He won't forget about it for months. I don't want you in pain and I don't want him to spiral over a mistake. I... I've done it. It's not fun." Jayce said softly. Viktor's gaze softened on him and he nodded. 

"You just want everyone to be alright." Viktor said quietly. Jayce nodded. Viktor gave a small smile. "That anxious heart of yours is something beautiful, Jayce." That seemed to surprise the older man and his face went red. Viktor leaned forward, pressing their lips together. Jayce met him eagerly, a hand sliding around Viktor's waist and the other pushing up into his hair.  Viktor yelped against his lips as Jayce tipped backwards, falling on the blanket pile once again with Viktor on top of him. Viktor burst out in laughter. "Jayce! Warn me, will you?"

"Your smile says otherwise." Jayce answered playfully, his eyes shining as he watched him like he'd just been watching the endless starry expanse not even an hour prior. 

Chapter Text

Viktor woke to a weight against his side and a dark room. His eyes went wide. He'd just been planning on taking a nap! Had he really slept the whole day?? He glanced down. The younger Jayce was buried against his side, his arms around his waist. He looked tired and Viktor glanced up down the hallway. All of the lights were off and Jayce's door was shut. He'd really come to lay with Viktor instead. He wasn't even under the covers! Viktor started to pull at them before carefully tucking them over Jayce. He paused as Jayce stirred, his eyes blinking open. Viktor could see their faint gleam. "Jayce, I apologize, I did not mean to sleep the whole day." He spoke in a quiet voice. Jayce gave a small stretch before lifting his head. 

"You were spending time with him, weren't you?" Jayce asked quietly. Viktor paused, wondering how he knew. Jayce gave a small smile. "If you slept for that long and it wasn't you spending time with him, I'd be really worried." Right, that made sense. Viktor's eyes softened. He reached out and slid his fingers through Jayce's hair, making the other man close his eyes and tip his hands up into his fingers. Viktor frowned a little, his hand freezing, and Jayce paused. "So, I, uh, I just forgot to take a bath for a bit, but I figured if I styled my hair as normal, you wouldn't... notice." 

"Get up." Viktor said sternly. He didn't even want to know what Jayce qualified as 'a bit'. "Bathroom." 

"What?? Now??" Jayce asked in surprise, sitting up with a face flushed from embarrassment. "Is it that bad?" Viktor stared at him flatly. Jayce gave a small sigh and glanced back out at the hallway before looking back. "Can I, uh, ask something weird?" Viktor paused. "Can I bring the stained glass lantern you have in the living room into the bathroom?" Viktor stared at him for a moment. 

"...Why?" He finally asked, more than a little confused. Jayce's embarrassed answer did little to satiate that confusion too. 

"To see." 

"Jayce, there are lights in the bathroom." Viktor said, unsure of how to remind him without sounding condescending. Jayce stared at him before his shoulders sank and he glanced aside again. Viktor paused before reaching out to him. "Perhaps explaining will help me to understand a little more?" Viktor prompted. Jayce reached up and held his hand. 

"...The lights in the bathroom are... too bright for me to have them on at this time of night. They, uh, they make everything... loud, if that makes any sense at all. Usually, I'm... I'm winding down around this time, so I'd rather not have anything that would kickstart my overthinking again. I can manage a bath, but I'd like to do it in the light of the lantern." Jayce explained quietly. He glanced up. "...Does that make sense?" Viktor gave a small laugh.

"It does not work the same for me, but I suppose so." Viktor glanced up, looking him over. "Perhaps I could join you?" He offered after a moment.

"Really??" The way Jayce instantly perked up at his words almost made Viktor laugh again. He resigned himself to a smile and nodded. "Y-Yeah! That would, uh... That would be great."

"Go fetch the lantern then." Viktor gently shooed him off the bed and Jayce was on his feet and down the hall in a moment's notice. Viktor reached out and pulled over his cane from where Jayce had moved it to rest against the nightstand. He saw a golden glow flick on, beautiful angular shapes painting the walls of the room just beyond the hall. He smiled and slipped himself out of the bed, shaking his head in quiet amusement. He made his way out of his room as Jayce appeared with the lantern. It was a sizable lantern with beautiful golden glass, etched with shapes and swirls. Jayce was grinning almost ear-to-ear as he hurried forward and illuminated the bathroom. He stared around the walls with shining eyes before turning to look at Viktor. Viktor gave a quiet laugh as he joined him in the bathroom. 

Jayce got to work on starting the bath, plugging the tub and starting to fill it. Viktor was slowly undoing his buttons. He'd fallen asleep in his day clothes, much to his distaste. He slipped the collared shirt off and started to work on the pants. Jayce had actually been in sleep clothes, but he managed to strip off only his shirt before pausing in slight embarrassment. "Jayce, please recall I have likely already seen anything you are ashamed of." Viktor said, glancing over at him. Jayce's face changed shades, even in the dark, but he stripped himself down fully. He didn't have the burn scarring that the older Jayce did. He paused, noticing Jayce hadn't taken off the bracelet with the Cleaving Rune. "Do you always keep that on?" He asked curiously. 

"I never usually take it off for anything. It's... really important to me." Jayce said, smiling back at him weakly. Viktor's eyes were gentle. He used his cane to move forward next to his side as Jayce finally stopped the water. Viktor was eager, already able to feel the slight warmth radiating from the water. "Uh, how do you...?" 

"You get in first." Viktor said, gesturing to the tub. Jayce did as he asked, settling into the water with a sigh. He sat on his knees and Viktor's eyes softened as Jayce stretched up a hand, intent on helping Viktor into the tub too. Viktor set his cane against the wall before turning and taking Jayce's hand. He flinched as he lowered himself into the water, his knee aching in protest just for a moment before relenting. Viktor let out a soft sigh as he faced Jayce. The gold light of the lantern flickered along the warm bath water. "Alright-" Viktor was stopped by lips in his own, his eyes wide. He expected hands to follow, but they didn't. The kiss itself was only a few seconds long and he was speechless as he stared at Jayce. 

The other man seemed to become flustered and turned his head away. "Sorry... you look nice like this. In the gold, I mean." Jayce gestured around vaguely and Viktor felt his chest warm before he gave a small laugh. He turned and searched along the wall before pulling down a shampoo bottle. 

"Thank you, Jayce." Viktor said gently, squeezing some into his hands. "Lean down a little, please." Jayce did so and Viktor almost laughed again as he felt the other melt into his fingers. Jayce's eyes instantly slipped shut in delight and his jaws parted just a little bit. "Do not go neglecting your hygiene like this again." Viktor placed a finger under his chin and shut his mouth for him. 

"...Will you still do this for me if I don't?" Jayce asked softly. The look in his eyes made Viktor pause as he realized he might've just got Jayce attached to another new thing. He sighed softly. 

"Do not go trying anything clever." Viktor scolded gently. A smile pulled at his lips. "Perhaps I will do it for you if you simply ask." That seemed to make Jayce light up instantly and Viktor watched him warmly. "Rinse." He had pulled his hands back. Jayce slipped below the water, leaving behind suds and bubbles. He came back up with his eyes squeezed shut and his nose scrunched up. Viktor started to laugh softly. Jayce peeked open one of his eyes. He lifted his hands and slipped them through Viktor's hair, lightly wetting it. Viktor slipped his eyes shut, giving a small sigh. "Jayce, when I was with him, he says that he sometimes hears parts of your thoughts interject into his. When you were to go to trial, he said all he could worry about was a trial, despite him having no such thing to attend. Do you experience anything similar?" 

Jayce paused, his eyes wide. "Oh, I... I never really considered it to be related to that, but a few years ago, I was committed to the clinic at least four times in the span of a year and a half." He glanced aside, his shoulders sinking. 

"What for?" Viktor questioned softly. 

"Alcohol poisoning." Jayce answered. "And the clinic staff were livid with me. I was freshly of drinking age and they said lots of new adults tend to overdo it, but not like I was. I almost lost the patronage of the Kirammans twice and I didn't know what to do." Jayce raised a hand to his head. "...I don't drink." Viktor froze up, staring at him before his own shoulders sank. "I assume he might've though. But I was irritable and upset and just so miserable... Gods, I did not know what to do." Jayce sighed before glancing up at Viktor. "Is he better now?" 

"Very much so." Viktor answered softly. "It seems your highest-strung traits are shared between each other. He is very emotional when he's at his worst. You overthink far too much." Jayce gave a weak smile. 

"Maybe that's, uh, why we share pleasure? To offset the bad connections?" It seemed like he was embarrassed to even joke about it, but he managed a small laugh. Viktor felt his face go hot and he gave an awkward cough.

"It is quite obscene of you to even think such a thing." He mumbled quietly. Jayce paused before glancing away.

"I, uh, I can't exactly help it. Considering how... how intense it is, it does help me not to think. It's nice to just have an empty head once in a while." Jayce admitted softly. Viktor glanced over at him, watching as the gold light from the lantern flickered over the water droplets on Jayce's skin. He sighed and leaned forward, pressing a hand to Jayce's chest before leaning up and pressing their lips together. Jayce's hands finally found him, one holding his arm and the other holding one of his hips. He pressed back into the kiss, his eyes slipping shut. When they pulled away, Jayce was nearly two shades darker in his cheeks, looking completely overwhelmed. Viktor's eyes widened and Jayce startled. "No, no, nothing's wrong!" He stopped the question before it could happen. "It's... just nice to kiss you." 

It was such a simple, sweet thing that Viktor felt his face go hot all the way to his shoulders. The bathroom fell into an awkward silence as the gold illuminated the room. Finally, Viktor started to laugh and Jayce's own soon joined it. It was warm and soft, like the light they bathed in. 

Chapter Text

Viktor was hiding. He had woken in a cold sweat and he'd practically tore himself from the bed, crawling over to the closet and shoving himself in the farthest corner he could. Anything to get away from those hands and that voice and that name-

"Sweetheart."

Viktor felt like he was going to be sick as tears streamed down his face. It was still nighttime and the room had been silent. Viktor could barely even think straight. His jaws were wide open as he dragged in shaking breaths. He curled in on himself, keeping his legs shut tight and his arms crossed tightly over his chest as he broke into quiet crying. He didn't want to feel those hands. He didn't want it. He didn't want it. Viktor's heart was racing so hard with fear that he felt like he was going to throw up. He hiccuped in between breaths and he squeezed his eyes shut, gagging.

"Viktor?? Viktor?!" Jayce sounded alarmed and Viktor could barely process his voice, only slamming himself back into the corner with wide, horrified eyes as he heard footsteps approach his hiding place. His panic suddenly kicked into full gear as he saw fingers poke through the clothes in order to push them aside. 

"Stop, stop, stop. Don't. Don't. DON'T!! DON'T TOUCH ME!! STOP!!" Viktor nearly barked out the words and he could no longer hear the footsteps, only Jayce's silent shock. The fingers quickly retreated.

"V-Viktor, it's me. It's Jayce. Jayce Talis." That slightly panicked voice drifted through the clothes and Viktor couldn't bring himself to process it. Every nerve in his body was screaming that he was in danger and that he was gross and it was too much. He broke out into sobbing and burying his head in his arms. "O-Okay, uh..." Jayce sounded lost, but Viktor soon heard him getting up and scuffling around the room. If it was the older Jayce, he likely would've been handling it already, but this one was uncertain and slightly scared by the outburst. He wanted to help, but he didn't know how. Viktor felt terrible for it.

Golden light flicked on outside the closet door and Viktor could see it through the hanging clothes. He let out a shuddery breath as his vision blurred from tears again. 

"Sweetheart, come here." 

The call was fainter this time, but just as terrifying and just as poisonous. A strangled whimper left Viktor's throat. He could feel those hands places that should've been impossible. Phantom sections of things that had long been cut from his body. He broke down sobbing before flinching as a blanket pushed through the clothes, the hand pushing it having jerked back through the fabrics like it had been stung. Viktor stared at the blanket weakly. Everything felt wrong and terrible. Viktor stretched out his hand and shakily drew the blanket closer, holding it against himself. He heard Jayce mutter a soft 'okay, okay', clearly relieved Viktor had accepted the blanket. The blanket smelled like this Jayce. Viktor hiccuped and pressed it against his cheek, squeezing his eyes shut. 

He hadn't even heard Jayce get up, but he heard him walking back towards the closet all of a sudden. He heard Jayce settled back down and startled as something poked through the clothes. He paused. His cane?? Was Jayce going to prod at him?? He was offended through his fear for a moment. "Viktor? Can you hold the other end for me?" Jayce called out. Viktor paused. What? He wasn't quite sure what Jayce's goal was, but he reached out, gripping the other end of the wooden cane. "Alright. Two taps for yes, three for no, okay?" Jayce kept his voice as quiet as he could, but he was clearly nervous. Viktor was hesitant before giving two taps on the wood. "Alright." 

It finally clicked. Jayce was using the wooden cane to feel his taps since he wouldn't hear them. Viktor's teary eyes went a little wide. Despite his erratic nature, Jayce was still very clever. It made the weakest smile pull at his lips before a wave of guilt crashed over him so hard that he nearly threw up. What right did he have to smile right now?? "Do you want me to leave you alone?" Jayce sounded uncertain, but also a little unhappy. Clearly, he didn't want Viktor to say yes and Viktor could only stare at the hanging clothes with teary eyes. He trembled for a moment before tapping three times. "Okay, thank the gods." Jayce instantly muttered, his voice becoming muffled. "Are you hungry at all?" 

Three taps. 

"How about thirsty? I can get you some water... or sweetmilk! You like sweetmilk, right? I-I can warm it up for you!" Jayce instantly offered. The cane was ever so slightly shaking and Viktor hesitated. Jayce was anxious. He felt terrible again. He finally gave two taps and Jayce exhaled. "O-Okay. Okay, okay, I'll be right back. I promise I'll still be here a-and if anything hurts, please just yell out, I'll come right back." The cane was set down from the outside before he heard Jayce hurry away. The golden rays of the lantern were still peeking through the clothes. Viktor could only stare. His shoulders were so tense that he swore his arms were going to fall off. His whole body felt gross and wrong. He didn't understand. Almost everything that man had cooed over, Viktor had removed. 

He'd cut his hair and he'd changed to baggier clothing. Singed had even fulfilled the most crucial part of separating himself from what that man had liked about him. Viktor's hands moved up to tightly cover his clothed scars. Tears welled in his eyes again as he let out a shaking breath. If he'd removed everything, why did it still feel like it did?? He hated it. He hated this. Viktor hiccuped in frustration, burying his face in his hand as he squeezed his eyes shut. He always felt so small. So easy to ogle and so easy to dote on in the most condescending of ways until it became something horrifying and dangerous. Viktor hiccuped again. He fell silent and he wasn't sure how long he sat in that smothering silence before he heard Jayce's footsteps. 

"Vik?? You still here? Y-You still with me?" Jayce asked from behind the wall of clothing as the cane jostled, Jayce clearly waiting for an answer. Viktor had started to reach out to the cane, but his confusion was clouding his mind.

"...Vik?" He echoed the nickname in a soft, strained voice. It did something to the knot in his chest. Softened it. Loosened it. He heard Jayce pause. 

"Is that... not okay?? Calling you that?" Jayce sounded a little mortified, like he was worried he'd only make Viktor's state worse. Viktor slowly forced himself into a proper sitting position. He knew he probably looked like a mess and he didn't want Jayce to see him so disheveled and tear-stained. He could smell the sugar in the sweetmilk. Jayce had noticed he always added sugar? Jayce quickly bulldozed himself to his next thought when Viktor didn't answer. "I, uh, I brought the sweetmilk. How do-"

Viktor leaned forward. His shaking, slender hands parted the clothes just enough the slip through and Jayce had stopped talking instantly. Viktor finally felt the warm ceramic against his palm and he paused as Jayce's larger hands carefully guided Viktor so he would hold the mug without dropping it. One hand on the handle. The other cupping under the bottom. It was so warm. Viktor pulled the mug back through the clothes. He relaxed at the familiar scent. A small sip made the tenseness in his shoulder sink away, leaving them loose and aching. "Viktor?" Jayce spoke uncertainly. "Can you please come out? I, uh, I'm so... I'm so fucking worried." Jayce whispered the last part, his voice strained. His voice became muffled. "Fuck..." 

Viktor hesitated, holding the mug tighter. He had the blanket draped over his shoulders and they were sunken. Finally, he forced himself to move, though he flinched putting so much strain on his weaker leg. He pushed the clothes aside with one hand, getting his head and shoulders through before quickly holding the mug again. Jayce's hands were on his head. One was buried in his messed up hair and the other was covering part of his face. He glanced up as Viktor hesitantly moved so he was sitting on his knees within the hanging clothes, holding the mug. He must've looked terrible because Jayce's shoulders sank when he saw him. He reached out to his face before quickly stopping himself and moving to firmly sit on his own hands. 

Jayce was sitting with his legs loosely outstretched, looking like he was about to cry too. He looked beyond stressed out. Viktor hesitated before shuffling around. Slowly, he lowered himself more and stretched out his legs before loosely tangling them with Jayce's. It seemed to make the other man lighten a little, glancing up at Viktor anxiously. Viktor took another sip of his sweetmilk, his eyes on the ground. Jayce didn't seem to know what to do and he clearly wanted to speak, but he wouldn't. Viktor finally raised his eyes. "...Thank you." He whispered shakily. 

"Y-Yeah! Yeah, of course!" Jayce exclaimed. He looked him over uncertainly. "Are you, uh... Are you okay?" The question became just a little desperate. Viktor hesitated. 

"No... but I feel better than I did." He said softly. Jayce stared at him before his eyes softened in the glow of the golden light and he nodded. 

"Can I do anything to help??" Jayce asked worriedly. Viktor paused again before giving a weak sigh through his nose and taking another sip. 

"...Please just stay with me." He said weakly, his hand tightening on the mug handle. "Sit with me." 

"I will." Jayce answered instantly. He paused and softened his voice awkwardly. "I-I will. I'll be right here. Just... I'm here, okay?" He seemed like he really wanted Viktor to know that and Viktor gave a small nod. "I'm here and you’re here. We're here together. No one else." Jayce gently bumped his leg against Viktor's good one. "You're, uh... you're safe." 

I'm safe. 

The thought sounded odd in his head, but Viktor... believed it. "...I am safe." He echoed softly. 

Chapter Text

Viktor spent the next few days waking up to Jayce in his bed, holding him with his cheek rested against his head and their legs tangled together. Even if Viktor had gone to bed while Jayce was still sewing, he always woke up to the same warm hold. It made his heart ache, but in a good way. And, to his surprise, Jayce's confidence had proven valid. He'd finished their outfits the day of the Frost Gala and he'd given Viktor his to change into. Viktor wasn't sure what he'd been expecting, but it certainly wasn't anything like this. And he... hadn't thought he would look this good in gold. 

The gold top had bishop sleeves, billowing out around his wrists before abruptly tapering at a cuff. As Jayce had said, it was shoulderless. The vest he wore was a dark red with gold stitching. There were no fancy metal adornments, but Jayce had managed to add a few little swirls of gold stitching around the bottom of the vest. It had a double-breasted collar and large white buttons. The pants were as white as the buttons and completely fitted. However, the stitching on them was a dark red to match the vest. Viktor stared at himself in the full-body mirror on his wall. He'd neatly styled his hair and, after another moment or two, his face went completely and utterly hot. Who was that? His cravat was white as well, neatly tucked into the vest. He didn't even recognize himself. There was a knock at his bedroom door. "Vik? How is it??" Jayce sounded anxious. 

Once Viktor had his words again the morning after his meltdown, he'd managed to convey to Jayce that the nickname made him feel warm. That he... he liked it. Viktor turned to look back at his door, grasping his wrist nervously as he kept his cane propped against his hip. "You... You can come in." He spoke up and the door was opening in an instant. Jayce stopped as he saw him, his eyes wide. His top was matched to Viktor's, though it lacked the swirls along the vest. It had its shoulders as well. Instead of bishop sleeves, his were simply cuffed. He wore white pants as well, though his didn't have any colored stitching. He had his House emblem pinned to his vest, having taken it from the front of his journal. He wore a tie, as opposed to Viktor's cravat, thought it was also white. Jayce seemed speechless. "I think it looks quite nice. How do-"

"You look amazing!" Jayce instantly blurted out. He paused and his face went red. "I'm not trying to praise my own work, I-I'm trying to praise you." He fumbled over his explanation and Viktor felt a smile pull at his lips. Both of the outfits were so very simple, but the bold, patternless colors tied them together. Simple, yet effective.

"Quite the narcissist, I see." Viktor teased ever so gently. Jayce's eyes went wide and he opened his mouth to instantly object before seeing Viktor's little smile. He scoffed at him disapprovingly, but a smile was lurking on his lips too. Viktor paused as he saw Jayce rubbing the crystal in his bracelet. "Are you nervous?" He asked softly. Jayce paused before glancing aside. Viktor took his cane before turning and limping over to him. "Did the Kirammans not take you to any larger events like this? They were your patrons, I would've thought them to take you to something of this size."

"Not something of this size, no." Jayce finally admitted. "Usually, it's a smaller, more controlled environment. And, uh, this would be my first time attending an event like this without them." Jayce glanced up and gave a weak smile. "Does that make you my patron now?" Viktor paused and his face instantly went red as he stared at him. Jayce's face flushed in response and he quickly looked away. "Th-That was a joke." Viktor hesitated.

"No, I... I suppose I am." Viktor said after a moment. "You receive funding and promotion through me..." He gave a weak laugh. "Though I never thought I would be labeled something as professional as a 'patron'. You really think me to be so influential and important?" Viktor rolled his eyes as he drawled out the words jokingly. He looked back to Jayce and paused. Jayce was staring at him, his face flushed. 

"You are to me." Jayce answered quietly. Viktor's hands tightened on his cane. He was frozen as Jayce took a step forward, leaning down and pressing their lips together. Viktor instantly reached up to hold the back of his neck, having learned that Jayce needed something to know that he wasn't making Viktor uncomfortable or overstepping. He instantly felt Jayce relax. Viktor pulled back from him. He cleared his throat, his cheeks flushed as he gripped his cane. 

"I... feel it may be a little scandalous to do something like that if I am your so-called patron." Viktor said, his ears red. Jayce seemed embarrassed too, giving a small nod. Viktor glanced up at the clock before sighing. "Salo should have sent a carriage for us around this time. Shall we-" He paused as Jayce held out his arm for him and Viktor blinked before laughing quietly. "A gentleman, I see." He could see Jayce already worrying and he reached out, taking his arm. "If you would take me downstairs, Mr. Talis, we have a gala to attend." Viktor prompted gently. Jayce lit up a little, nodding. He led Viktor out of his apartment, Viktor locking the door. As they went down the stairwell, Viktor sighed softly. "You have been extraordinarily patient with me, Jayce." He finally said, glancing to the side. "Especially with how I've frightened you." 

"I mean... I consider it payback for the first few times we talked. I made you cry..." Jayce said, his shoulder sunken as he helped Viktor down the stairs. Viktor glanced up at him. 

"You did not need any more 'payback' after being in that cell." Viktor said weakly, absolutely dismayed. Jayce paused before he turned his head away. He opened his mouth. "Do not tell me it was not that bad, Jayce. Your jaw fell slack in my hands the moment I cradled it. I know what they did." Viktor's voice was strangled. "And it was because of me. You did not deserve anything they did. Th-They should not have even laid a hand on you-" 

"Viktor!" Jayce gently interrupted him. He looked a little shaken by the reminder, but he wasn't the one whose heart was absolutely crying in his chest. "V-Viktor, please. It's past now. I-I'm... I don't hold that against you. I didn't even blame you for it when it happened." Jayce admitted, his hand moving to cup Viktor's cheek. "And, uh..." Jayce gave a small laugh. "I know I was, uh, concussed, but hearing you rip apart their lie so matter-of-factly was, uh... really captivating." His cheeks were red. "I realized you were... someone safe for me." 

Viktor glanced up at him doubtfully. "And then I tried to use you." He stated, his voice weak and his hands tight on his cane. Jayce hesitated and glanced aside. 

"...And I was upset." Jayce admitted. "But, uh, I had already been... into it the whole time... I told you before. Knowing it was you made it all better. I didn't have to be scared about these... weird phantom sensations because it was you. And you're someone safe for me." Viktor stared at him, his hand having moved up to anxiously hook into his own sleeve. He didn't understand how Jayce didn't absolutely hate his fucking guts. Viktor lowered his head and Jayce paused. "Vik. Please stop beating yourself up over things. I know you don't think you deserve forgiveness, but I already forgave you. I know it seems fast and like I didn't even think about it, but I did. I'm not a bitter person. Especially not with the... circumstances surrounding both of those situations. Can't you look past that?" He met his eyes worriedly. "Can't you just look at me instead?" 

The question brought a new wave of heat to Viktor's face, along with fresh, hot tears in his eyes. He just didn't get it. "Why would you want me to? Just knowing me has brought you nothing but stress." Viktor said, his shoulders scrunching up. "You were terrified a few nights ago. And what happened to me then is something that happens to me far more often than I'd like to admit. How many times can you handle me breaking apart like that??" 

"Viktor. Viktor, listen to me." Jayce stopped in front of him, holding his shoulders. "Stop. You're picking at closed wounds. I can handle it. I'm not leaving you, if that's what you’re subtly trying to tell me to do." Viktor's ears went hot with shame as he hugged himself. "If I held anything against you, we wouldn't be going anywhere in clothes I tailored for us. I certainly wouldn't be going with you to a gala that happens solely to celebrate your existence."  It was difficult to argue against that. Viktor stared at him before tears finally escaped down his face. "If I held anything against you, I wouldn't be sharing my safe person with another version of myself. One that's... a lot better fit for him." Jayce's eyes lowered. 

"Jayce, please kiss me again." Viktor spoke shakily, staring at him as he kept his arms tightly against himself, his cane hooked in his elbow. Jayce seemed surprised, but Viktor didn't have to ask twice. Jayce stepped forward and his arms slipped around Viktor's waist as he pulled him close, connecting their lips. Viktor's eyes slipped shut and he reached up, weakly curling his fingers into Jayce's shoulder. Jayce deepened the kiss greedily before they both pulled back, panting. "...You put so much good faith in me." Viktor couldn't help how devastated he sounded. "I'm sorry." 

Jayce cupped the back of his neck before pressing their foreheads together gently. "Clearly you think it's too much. Which means it's not enough on my end. I'll try harder." Jayce pulled back and lifted Viktor's hand, kissing his knuckles as his golden-brown gaze pierced into Viktor's. Both of them flushed red. "The, uh, the carriage is probably waiting. L-Let's go." It seemed like Jayce had even embarrassed himself with that move. Viktor nodded quietly. 

"Let's go." 

Chapter Text

"Stop-" 

"Ack!" 

"-moving!" 

Viktor kept his eyes closed and his shoulders scrunched up. Mel had gently smacked his shoulder in scolding. "I really do not think this is nece-" 

"Viktor, Viktor, Miss Mel Merdarda knows what's best when it comes to makeup. If she is the one tending to it, you'll look dashing by the end." Salo assured him, leaned back into a puffy armchair as he sipped at a glass of wine. They'd arrived at his estate and Viktor had pretended he was meeting Mel for the first time in front of Heimerdinger. The Yordle, Mel, Viktor and Salo were all in the room Viktor was to project his poem from. Jayce was left out in the hallway with Elora, who Mel had brought as her own guest. Viktor could feel the cool slide of eyeliner and he was admittedly nervous about wearing makeup. Mel did seem like she knew what she was doing though. She pulled the eyeliner away before Viktor felt something dust his eyelids. "Ah, a little sparkle, Mel?" 

"It ties the look together. Matches the stitching and makes his eyes pop." Mel stated matter-of-factly as she leaned back, grasping her chin in thought. "Hm. I think you're done." She said proudly. Viktor scoffed softly and glanced to the side when she beckoned. There was a mirror on the wall and Viktor paused. There was a black line of eyeliner, followed by a gold one, along with a gentle, shimmering gold dust on his eyelids. He felt a little embarrassed. It looked... nice. Heimerdinger was heard chuckling as he scampered over to them.

"Impressive work as always, Councilor Merdarda!" He chirped, Mel seeming quite proud of herself. Viktor felt his face go hot, his hands tightening on his cane, which he had laid across his lap. Mel moved back. Her, Salo, and Heimerdinger were in their best fabrics. Mel with a beautiful black cocktail dress. Salo with an expensive top of frills and silk. Even Heimerdinger's small suit was custom, with fabric that was no longer even produced. And Viktor wouldn't even start on their jewelry and adornments. Needless to say, he felt plain beside them. Not nearly as powerful, not nearly as important. Jayce's carefully tailored clothes were still the nicest thing he'd ever draped himself in. Perhaps Mel had a vague inkling of his discomfort and that was why she had insisted on doing his makeup. The camera was already on him, but it had yet to project anything. 

Heimerdinger grunted as Viktor helped him up onto the chair next to his. "Perhaps this arrangement should have been made for Corin... Good gods, we could have avoided a disastrous night." He gave a quiet sigh, his ears lowering. Viktor watched him worriedly. He didn't know much of the relationship between Heimerdinger and Singed, only that they'd been close friends and research partners once. Ones that had only started talking again after years of radio silence, all because of him. And that Singed's first and only Frost Gala had been a nightmare. "Ah, Viktor, I apologize that I am not able to stay much further than your recitation. Both Allira and Mel have assured me that you will be well looked after here. Are you sure you'll want to stay, my boy? I can always add your apartment as a stop on the way to my home." 

Viktor gave a small smile, warmth in his chest at the Yordle's worry. He could see his ears flicking restlessly. "No, Professor, I will be alright. As Allira has generously offered, I will go to peruse his library as a way to calm myself after this." He gestured to Salo, who raised in his glass in agreement as he sat back with his legs crossed. Heimerdinger blinked expectedly at him and Viktor felt his face go hot. "...Jayce will be joining me. He is nervous to leave my side. I, eh..." He glanced up at Mel and gave a nervous laugh. "I imagine he may be talking Miss Elora's ear off at the moment." Mel paused before breaking out in her own laughter. 

Salo was staring outside and he hummed. "Ah, the sky is dark enough." He commented. He looked over at Viktor. "Would you like us to leave the room?" Heimerdinger and Mel both seemed more than shocked by Salo's consideration and he glanced between them, instantly becoming offended. "The very reason I arranged this room for him was so he would not have too many eyes on him! I am capable of accommodation!" He scoffed. 

"If... If I could have Jayce in here instead. He loves my recitations and it calms his nerves." Viktor said softly. Heimerdinger's ears flicked up in surprise as Salo and Mel both stared at him with looks that suggested they may have started piecing a puzzle together. Viktor's face went hot. "I-If I could, please." He insisted. Heimerdinger huffed and hopped down from the chair. Mel followed him to the door and opened it, allowing the Yordle to cast Viktor a proud glance before moving through the doorway. 

"We will be just outside, Viktor." Mel assured him, Viktor smiling and giving a nod in response. He jumped as Salo pushed himself up from his chair. 

"The projector is timed to go off in two minutes. Keep your shoulders straight and your face in frame, alright?" Salo vaguely gestured around his own face as he spoke. Viktor nodded. "The window is open so the particles can make it outside." He took another sip of his wine. "Do you have a drink of choice?" 

"Mudslide?" Viktor requested hesitantly. Salo wrinkled his nose before laughing and rolling his eyes. 

"A sweet tooth, even in alcohol! You are insatiable!" He exclaimed teasingly. Viktor scoffed as he shot him a playful glare. "I'll have that waiting for you in the library. How about your, uh... friend?" He rolled the word knowingly as Viktor felt his face go hot. 

"Jayce does not drink. Thank you, Allira." Viktor paused and his hands tightened on his cane. "Truly. For all of your accommodations." 

"Of course." Salo finished off his glass and turned to the door. "That's why I'm your favorite- don't roll your eyes." Viktor startled at his scolding tone, having been right in the midst of doing so.

"How do you always know??" Viktor blurted out through his laughter. 

"Mm." Salo only gave a vague noise in response, grinning from ear to ear as he moved to the door, waving his hand dismissively. He stepped outside and Viktor paused as he heard him say something. His own smile grew a little more as he heard Jayce quickly apologize to Elora and saying he could finish explaining at another time before Jayce was suddenly in the room. The door shut behind him as he paused, staring at Viktor with an open mouth. Viktor paused. After another moment, he became flustered, his hands tight on his cane.

"Jayce, it is just some simple makeup. Councilor Merdarda insisted upon it." Viktor mumbled in embarrassment, turning his head to the side. He gestured to where Salo had been sitting. "Sit quickly, please. The projector is timed to start any moment." Jayce took another moment to stare before quickly turning and making his way to the chair. "Could you watch outside and let me know if I am in frame??" Viktor asked nervously. Jayce quickly nodded, turning to face the window. 

Viktor straightened up and let out a soft breath as a ring on the camera lit up. Jayce almost instantly forgot to give him any indication of if he was in frame or not, but Viktor had a feeling he was, based on Jayce's awestruck expression. The projector would take his image and reconstruct it in another place, at another size. He had no doubt that Salo owned a fancy one with clear mapping and color. Viktor put on his best smile and he saw Jayce's cheeks go pink as he stared outside. The chatter he had faintly heard from the garden had now gone silent. 

"Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and sorry I could not travel both." Viktor started strong, his accented voice soon becoming something soft and lulling. He saw Jayce's body relax against the chair as he stared outside. The poem continued, Viktor able to feel the tingling of Arcane magic on his skin. It was listening too. "And both that morning equally lay in leaves no step had trodden black." He saw a smile tug at Jayce's lips as Viktor finally reached the last verse. A breeze seemed to move through the room and Viktor almost swore he could see Jayce's child self staring out the window alongside him, made of starlight. The same starry-eyed expression. "I shall be telling this with a sigh, somewhere ages and ages hence." He took a breath and paused as Jayce finally turned to look at him. 

Viktor held his gaze, that warm smile still on his face. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-" Viktor watched as Jayce's child self shimmered, turning to look at him as well. "I took the one less traveled by. And that... has made all the difference." The projector clicked off abruptly after a moment of silence and Viktor let out a sigh of relief as he heard cheers and applause from the garden below. His eyes slipped shut. He paused as he heard Jayce get up from the chair, moving over to him. He barely had time to open his eyes before Jayce's lips were against his, the smile felt right against Viktor's own. He reached up, his arms sliding around Jayce's neck as he pressed back against him. 

When Jayce finally pulled back, his eyes were shining as he stared at Viktor, with the same joy and wonder that one might watch a rare cosmic event. "You were incredible!!" Jayce insisted, seeming downright delighted by Viktor's arms being loosely thrown over his shoulders.

"W-Well, it is quite hard to mess up something that has been engraved into my heart since birth." Viktor said, glancing aside with a flushed face. Jayce scoffed and leaned forward, catching him in another kiss, which Viktor gladly accepted. What he didn't expect, was for Jayce to deepen the kiss and, if Viktor hadn't been sitting already, his legs surely would've become weak. When they both pulled away again, Viktor's breathing was heavier. "Gods, Jayce, are you trying to steal all the air from my lungs?" He joked weakly, Jayce going dark red. 

"Sorry! Sorry, I..." Jayce fumbled with his words for a moment and he finally fell quiet in frustration before glancing back at Viktor. "...Are we going to the library now?" 

"Y-Yes, I think so." Viktor said softly, his own cheeks a pale pink. 

Chapter Text

Salo would be out near the fountain. 

Mel and Elora would be in the gazebo. 

The three had made sure Viktor knew exactly where they were, if he needed to come find them. Two Enforcers would remain outside the library door and one would accompany them while walking. 

Viktor had never been so grateful. 

Heimerdinger had left for home shortly after his recitation, but not after heaps of pride and praise. Viktor was in a massive, two-story library and his mind was racing as he limped around, wondering if Salo actually had a need for this many books or if he just had it to look good. He didn't want to attempt the climb up the spiral staircase to the second floor, so he retreated to the circle of couches he'd left Jayce in. Jayce was staring at Viktor's mudslide cocktail with a slightly sick look. He glanced up and his expression went back to that excited normalcy. "Ah, you... you drink, Viktor?" 

Viktor picked up the chocolatey drink and nodded, taking a sip. He let out a quiet sigh. "I do, but only in this world. I would not want to send your other self relapsing." Again. The word was right on the tip of his tongue, but he didn't let it escape. Viktor paused as he saw Jayce's expression and he furrowed his brow. "...Perhaps I should stop here as well?" He started to put the drink back down, but Jayce's grimace quickly disappeared as his eyes widened. 

"Oh, no, no. You, uh, you can do what you want! Especially at your own gala!" Jayce insisted. Viktor watched him before nodding and putting the drink down. "V-Viktor." 

"Jayce, the sight of me drinking alcohol clearly upsets you." Viktor stated, raising a brow. "So I won't." Jayce stared at him before his shoulders sank and he looked aside. 

"That's your favorite drink, isn't it?" Jayce asked, glancing at him. "I, uh, I can smell the sugar and chocolate from here." He sounded like he was trying to take a playful jab at him through his guilt. Viktor made his way over, standing in front of him.

"May I sit, Jayce?" He requested softly. Jayce glanced up at him in surprise before giving a small nod and scooting over to give him room. Viktor settled on the couch next to him. "Jayce, what I have, with both you and him... is very fragile. Something very delicately built on trust and comfort." Viktor was quiet for a moment. "...I have already violated both of your trusts. I cannot do it again. And I certainly cannot bring myself to ruin your comfort as well. You said I was your safe person. And I want to continue being your safe person." Viktor admitted. "How you both have forgiven me for my transgressions is beyond me, but I don't want to waste my second chance." 

Viktor didn't expect to be wrapped up in a warm hug before he had barely breathed out the last word. It nearly brought tears to his eyes as he propped his cane against his leg and reached up, hugging Jayce back. Jayce buried his face against him. "I, uh, I know you’re... you're really trying. And I can't really imagine being split between two worlds like you are." Jayce said hesitantly. "But, uh... you really are my... my safe person. And I need you to understand that." Viktor paused and pulled back, wondering why he sounded so desperate and nervous. Jayce stared at him, his hands felt shaking on his shoulders. His own were sunken. "I just... I just want to see you having a nice time here... before you leave." Jayce glanced to the side. Viktor knew in an instant that Jayce didn't mean the gala.

"You really think our minds cannot crack a way to open a small bridge between the worlds in a few months?" Viktor asked, tipping his head. "Your mind may be a little scrambled, Jayce, but your intellect remains obvious." Jayce stared at him, clearly caught off guard by the praise as his face went red. 

"H-Hey, I...!" Jayce instantly shut his mouth again, seeming to try and think over his words. He seemed extremely troubled before glancing back. "Can... we talk about, uh, personal things here?" Viktor paused. He raised a brow promptingly. "Uh... sex." Jayce managed quietly, though his voice had weakened tremendously on the last word. It seemed like he'd just been trying to change the subject, but in the clumsiest way possible. Viktor felt his face go hot and he reached up, pulling one of Jayce's hands down so he could hold it. Jayce seemed more than okay with it. 

"What about it?" Viktor asked hesitantly. Jayce swallowed. 

"So, I, uh... I've never had it. I was always too caught up in my work and my research. My own, uh..." Jayce vaguely gestured around his head. "Thoughts." Viktor watched him and his eyes softened, though his face went so hot, he was worried it would set ablaze.

"You want to give me your first time." Viktor said softly. Jayce froze up a little before nodding. His hands were tight on Viktor's. Viktor glanced away. "I, eh, feel like it may have already been a little spoiled for you." He admitted, his shoulders slightly sunken. 

"No! No, I don't think it would be the same as having the person there. Having you there. Actually being able to hold you and touch you on my own... It has to be different." Jayce said quietly. His golden brown eyes flicked up to Viktor's. "Or, is... is that overstepping to ask for that?? If you... just want to do that with him, it's... it's fine. The phantom sensations will transfer over to me." Jayce sounded slightly defeated. "I imagine he's a better lover, in that regard." 

"Jayce." Viktor said his name scoldingly and Jayce jumped, quickly apologizing. Viktor's gaze softened and his voice soon followed. "I think I would like that very much, but I have discussed this idea with your other self as well. He has... insisted that he... must be present when you do make love to me for the first time. He told me how anxious and clumsy he was during his own. He... wants to make sure neither of us hurt ourselves or end up feeling upset or guilty." Even though Jayce had likely assumed it was a voyeurism kink of some kind, based on how red he was at first, understanding had crept into his gaze the further Viktor explained. "He said he knows how you'll feel if you hurt me l, even by accident. He said he doesn't want that for you. Ever." 

"Will we all be in your space? I... I don't know if it'll feel the same." Jayce admitted uncertainly. Viktor paused. 

"I would like to keep it to the space for the first couple times. Once you feel confident enough, then perhaps we can..." Viktor trailed off as he saw how Jayce was staring at him. "What?" 

"First couple times?" Jayce echoed in soft disbelief. Viktor blinked in surprise before nodding. "Do you think we'll-"

"Jayce, I am... a naturally... needy person when it comes to relief in that regard." Viktor struggled to word it. "The medicine I was put on to help my voice and my... physical features only increased that need. When my incident happened, it shut down all want for such a thing, but now that I have people I feel safe with, it will very much come back. Even stronger than before, I imagine. I... I am greedy." Viktor was slightly ashamed. "I am... more than confident we will be connected more than once." Jayce didn't seem opposed to it at all, but he was certainly embarrassed. "But you do agree with his condition?" 

"Yeah... Yeah, I think it would actually be a good idea to have someone who knows how I feel and how you feel." Jayce managed quietly. Viktor was a little flustered by the wording. "But, uh, that's okay?? You taking my... my virginity? I want to give it to you." Jayce said quietly. "If that's okay..." 

"If... you are really certain of it." Viktor said, giving an affirmative nod and watching as Jayce relaxed. "Have you been worrying over that??" Jayce gave a weak laugh. 

"When am I not worrying over something?" He joked quietly. Viktor paused before pulling him close. He pressed their lips together and Jayce accepted it before there was a soft gasp of surprise as Viktor pushed his tongue into his mouth. He easily overpowered Jayce's and the larger man melted into him. "M-Mm..." When Viktor pulled back, they were both panting.

"How about now?" Viktor asked softly, scanning Jayce's eyes over. Jayce paused and he could only fumble in useless silence for a moment. 

"...Huh?" He managed, making Viktor let out a small laugh. 

Chapter Text

The evening stretched on and, as Viktor knew, one surefire way to distract Jayce from his worries was their research. "No, no, I'm not recommending we make the device a bracelet just so we match! A bracelet would be more efficient than a necklace, contain a larger fragment of the crystal than a ring, and it would look a lot less scandalous than a collar!" Jayce insisted, bright red from embarrassment as he showed Viktor the sketches he'd just made on some napkins. Viktor paused and glanced up at him in slight amusement. Both of them had their shoes off to show respect for the furniture. Jayce needed both of his hands for explaining, but Viktor had gently tangled their legs as they sat facing one another and it had seemed to calm Jayce's nerves instantly. 

"...You considered a collar before earrings?" He asked, smiling as he watched Jayce absolutely start to scramble for a good explanation after giving a loud swear. His face had turned a whole different shade of red. Viktor let out a quiet bit of laughter. Their playful talk was interrupted by loud knocking at the library door. Jayce got up, but the people outside were already coming in. Viktor hesitated as he turned to face them, reaching down and quickly pulling his shoes on. Jayce hesitantly did the same. He recognized one of the older Councilors, along with some other men that he didn't recognize. The Councilor seemed surprised. 

"Ah, I was not aware you were being accompanied by a guest!" He exclaimed, sounding genuinely shocked by that. Viktor paused before slowly getting up, Jayce standing up with him. Viktor's hands were tight on his cane as he looked over the group. 

"...May I help you? Councilor Salo assured me I would be unbothered the rest of my evening. I am not exactly one for... socializing." Viktor said, trying to keep his tone polite and his hands from shaking. 

"Salo is currently charming his way through all the ladies of the party. My sincere apologies, but I was curious to meet the Intersect directly after seeing that gorgeous projection." The Councilor said, taking a step forward. "A few others wanted to meet you as well." The other elites nodded as the Councilor gestured to them. Viktor took a small step back, keeping his shoulder pressed against Jayce's arm. Viktor did not like this feeling. He did not like this situation. His heart was already racing. Jayce's arm wrapped around his shoulder and his hand gave it a small squeeze. The Councilor seemed to notice this. "...It was certainly not mentioned that you were seeing someone. Especially the one who so dangerously called you out in his own trial." There was a mirage of concern in the man's voice. "I do hope there is no type of coercion happening, young man." 

Viktor's voice felt like it had been stolen from his throat. His knuckles were white on his cane and his other hand moved out to shakily grip Jayce's fingers. "I would do no such thing to him! Viktor and I are partners! He agreed to help me with my research and that's what was being discussed. His forgiveness for how I acted at the trial, however, is extremely important to me." Jayce swallowed ever so softly. "He is important to me and I will defend him with my life." Usually, Viktor would recoil at statements like that, but every nerve in his body currently felt like it was on fire. Jayce glanced down at him for a moment before looking back up. "...If you'll excuse us, Councilor Merdarda expected to see us by a certain time. I should thank you, considering you reminded us to look at the clock."

Jayce gave a smile before starting to lead Viktor forward. Viktor was trying to keep his body loose and he was trying so desperately not to freeze up in place like a deer. The Councilor didn't move for a moment and Jayce blinked as he stopped in front of him with Viktor. He stared down the shorter man. "Excuse us." He repeated, a little firmer. There was another tense moment before the Councilor stepped aside, dipping his head. Jayce led Viktor to the doorway.

"Viktor. Do let us have a proper conversation before your Frost. I am fascinated by you and your abilities." The Councilor spoke up and it took everything Viktor had as he looked back at him and smiled politely.

"Of course. I apologize for the inconvenient timing. Perhaps another time." He turned away and Jayce led him into the hallway, where both Enforcers on either side of the door were stiff, sporting velvety new coinbags hanging off each of their belts. As Jayce started to lead him down the hall, one finally started to follow and Viktor stopped abruptly, turning to face the woman. "Ah, I would not like to be escorted right now. If you could leave us be." Viktor's voice was strained and the panicked guilt that crashed over the Enforcer's face was palpable. She stopped in her tracks and Viktor managed a smile, tears already welling in his eyes. "Th-Thank you." He turned away. 

Jayce led him further and the Enforcer did not follow. They turned the corner and, as they walked, Viktor started to feel sicker and sicker until his jaws finally parted and he made a trembling noise. Jayce quickly pulled him to the side of the hallway, having Viktor face him as he gently held his shoulder with one shaking hand and the other cupped his cheek. "...Fuck. J-Jayce..." Viktor finally broke down crying and he saw the larger man's shoulders sink. "Good fucking gods, Jayce." Viktor dropped his cane and reached up with trembling hands. "Fuck." He couldn't even drag together words. He felt like he was going to collapse and he allowed his legs to finally give out. 

Jayce startled as Viktor slid to the floor, quickly kneeling down and sitting crisscross in front of him. He continued to hold his cheek and shoulder, his own jaws parted as he seemed to try and find something to say. Finally, he took his own deep breath. "Hey, uh... I-I'm sorry we barely even did anything here and it's your first Frost Gala, but... Viktor, I really think we should go home. N-Now, if possible." Jayce said after a moment, his eyes flicking nervously to the side before meeting his again. Viktor had absolutely no protests to that, only able to give a shaking nod in response. 

He wanted to thank Jayce. He wanted to thank him and hug him, but that would mean he would have to fully process what just happened and what could have happened and he couldn't allow himself to do that. Not out of the safety of his home. Not in an unfamiliar place. The second he dared to entertain the possibility of what could've just happened to him, he would shatter. He would shatter like glass and he didn't want Jayce to cut his hands out in public trying to piece him back together. "C-Councilor Salo. H-He will report me missing if I j-just leave." 

"Right. Right, let's go find him and then we're leaving. We're walking straight back through those gates, okay?" Jayce said, his voice strained. "We are not waiting here for a carriage." Viktor nodded immediately. He allowed Jayce to help him to his feet and he took his cane as it was given to him. "...Fuck." Jayce finally whispered in shaky disbelief as he led Viktor down the hall. "J-Just hold it together, okay?" He asked, glancing over at Viktor. Viktor would've joked for Jayce to do the same if he weren't trying to keep himself from spiraling right then and there. Jayce was holding his hand tightly as he led him. He looked as sick as Viktor felt. Jayce pushed open the doors leading out into the massive garden. 

The strings of lights that illuminated the sparkling dresses and vibrant flowers in the area would've been beautiful. Viktor wished he could enjoy it. He could already see Salo out by the fountain, sitting on the edge, and the older man was surrounded by woman. All of which looked posh and upperclass, like him. There were little to no guests on the marble steps leading down into the garden and Jayce led Viktor over to a pillar, making sure his back was firmly planted against it. "Just keep direct line of sight, okay?" Jayce asked softly. "I'll be back as fast as I can." Viktor gave a small nod, watching as Jayce turned and moved down the stairs. He practically speed-walked as he weaved his way through the other guests. Viktor felt like he was going to be sick. If Jayce hadn't been there-

No.

Viktor's hands tightened on his cane as he felt tears burning in the corners of his eyes. He couldn't think about it. Not now. Not here. He wasn't safe to break here. He couldn't. He couldn't. He watched as Jayce reached Salo, though it seemed a little difficult to pull the man's attention from his female companions. He seemed a little taken back by the first thing Jayce told him and his eyes moved around until he saw Viktor, his brow furrowing as he seemed to ask Jayce something. Jayce hesitated before leaning down and Salo leaned up as Jayce seemed to whisper something to him. His eyes widened and his female companions gasped as he dropped his glass, it shattering on the stone around the fountain. He gave them a quick smile as he abruptly stood, speaking and apologizing assuringly. His gaze became serious again as he looked back at Jayce. 

Viktor kept himself pressed back against the pillar, letting the cold marble rest against the back of his neck and ground him. He finally squeezed his eyes shut and he quickly reached up, wiping his eyes with his sleeve. "Viktor." Salo had never sounded so serious and Viktor glanced up at him as he finished ascending the steps to him. He reached out to him carefully, resting his hand against his arm. He looked downright cold, to say the least, but his disdain certainly wasn't for Viktor. "Go home this instant. I will have this dealt with." He glanced up at the doors to his estate with narrowed eyes. "...Oh, how I will have this dealt with." He turned back to Jayce. "Follow the left path to the side gate. It will deposit you both onto the main road." Salo looked beyond angry, but his gaze softened on Viktor. "Get home safely and quickly." 

"Thank you." Viktor replied weakly. Jayce moved forward and guided Viktor down the steps as Salo turned, stalking towards the doors with all the snobbish prowess of a man actually influential and powerful enough to do something about such a terrible situation. Jayce pulled Viktor along the path until the sounds of the party had faded into the distance. The gate was old and he unlocked it, opening up the creaky door before guiding Viktor through. He shut it behind them and they trudged down a grassy hill until they were both back on the main road. Jayce let out a shaky breath as they walked, his hand still tight on Viktor's. 

Viktor's heart was pounding so hard that it was making him physically nauseous. His already uneven steps started to stutter and Jayce paused. "I-I can carry you. It'll be faster." He said quickly. Viktor nodded. He expected Jayce to mean that he would carry him on his back, but he yelped as Jayce scooped him up almost effortlessly, one hand under his back and the other under his knees. Jayce began to walk much faster, his jaw clenched and his eyes focused. Viktor kept a tight, shaking hold on his cane, trying to keep himself from processing what had just transpired. He couldn't do it until he was back in the safety of his home. He couldn't do it out here. He couldn't. He wouldn't. "...Fuck, Viktor." Jayce's voice shook as he walked. 

Viktor couldn't agree more. 

Chapter Text

And Viktor had meant it when he said he was going to break. The moment he was through the doorway of his apartment and the moment the door had clicked shut, Viktor felt sick rising in his throat. He gagged and Jayce startled, practically sprinting over to the bathroom with him. He placed him over the toilet just in time for Viktor to empty the entirety of his stomach. And it burned. It hurt and it burned and Viktor inhaled shakily. "Shut the door." He managed. Jayce quickly backed up and shut the door before turning to him in confusion. That confusion turned to shock, panic, and pain all at once as Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and screamed. 

Viktor screamed.

His voice was shredded and strangled by the end, Viktor finally breaking down into hiccups. He gagged before getting sick again, curling over the toilet. His whole body felt sticky and gross and wrong and every nerve was screaming danger, despite being in the safety of his own home. But he wasn't safe because there was someone else here. "Get out of here. Get out. GET OUT!!" Viktor shrieked, hearing Jayce inhale shakily before the door opened and shut. Viktor got sick one more time before he was left dry-heaving and crying. His hands slipped up into his hair and balled up. "Gods... Gods, wh-what... Why would...? Ugh..." Viktor squeezed his eyes shut, tears running down his face with snot. "Why does this... keep...?" 

Viktor wanted to tear his hair out and he threw himself to the ground, curling up as he hugged himself, his head resting against the tiled floor. He shouldn't have yelled at Jayce. Fuck, Jayce had saved him. Jayce had saved him just by being there. Guilt almost made Viktor sick again, but he hiccuped. He felt terrible and he wanted Jayce back beside him. "J-Jayce! Jayce??" He wailed out for him and the door flew open in an instant, Jayce's hurried footsteps heard. He finally moved around and knelt in front of Viktor. He seemed to think about what he wanted to do for a moment before shakily laying himself down in front of Viktor so they could both be laying on the floor and facing each other. Viktor could only stare at him uselessly. "...Thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you." His whispering only seemed to upset Jayce, tears finally appearing in the other man's eyes as he let out a shaky breath. 

"You shouldn't have to thank me. What the fuck." Jayce whispered in absolute dismay. He reached out, sliding his hand under Viktor's head and holding his cheek. "Good fucking gods, Viktor... Can I hold you?? Even just... Even just-" Viktor had already dragged himself forward, burying himself into Jayce's chest like he was trying to hide inside of him. Jayce's arm was around him in an instant and his nose buried into his hair. Viktor tangled their legs instantly, his fingers clinging tightly to Jayce. "O-Okay, yeah." Jayce sounded shaken too. Viktor could only imagine the whirlwind Jayce's mind had become trying to find ways out of there. He had no doubt Jayce would have become violent, even though it was clear the larger man didn't want to. 

Jayce's heart was pounding and Viktor could feel it under his hands. It was almost as fast as his own. "I-I'm sorry, Jayce. I'm sorry you could have b-been witness to something terrible. I'm sorry. I'm sorry-" 

"Why are you apologizing?? Viktor, do not apologize for that!! Fuck!" Jayce sounded downright shocked. Viktor felt terrible. Jayce was scared too. Almost as much as him. "...I would have been arrested again for sure if they tried anything. I, uh, I think I'd fucking die before I let myself be useless in a situation like that. I can't..." Jayce fell into shaky breathing. "Viktor, my chest hurts... I-I'm sorry." Viktor pulled back a little bit, staring at him with tearful eyes. "I-It's just... It's hard for me to breathe and my heart is, uh, really racing." 

"Me too." Viktor whispered softly, his own voice weak. He reached out and pulled Jayce's hand to his face, pressing his cheeks into his knuckle and squeezing his eyes shut. More tears ran down his face and he shook his head. He felt terrible. He felt terrible and Jayce paused. 

"...What's wrong?? Are you going to be sick again?" He sounded worried and Viktor shook his head. He kept his mouth shut, not wanting to scare Jayce further. "Viktor..." 

"I'm sorry." 

"Viktor, nothing about that was your fault. Nothing. Please stop apol-"

"If what I assume they came for had happened, I would not still be here, Jayce." Viktor spoke shakily, keeping his eyes squeezed shut. "My paths would burn and my walk would end. If it had happened, I would... leave. That is why I am apologizing." Viktor finally opened his eyes, meeting Jayce's eyes. "There would have been no Frost." Jayce was speechless as he stared at him before the tears started flowing even more. "I want to thank you because you saved me just by being there. By being my... partner." Viktor nearly choked with how emotional his voice got on the last word. "And I apologize for not being a stronger person."

"It would be horrifying for even the strongest-willed people, Viktor. You have to give yourself more credit." Jayce whispered, his golden-brown eyes not leaving his. "I, uh, I think you're one of the strongest people I've ever met." Jayce was not a liar. Even when he tried, he wasn't good at it. Viktor stared at him before he shakily pushed himself up into a sitting position. Jayce blinked. "Oh, are we getting up now?" He pushed himself up as well before jumping as Viktor inched over and laid his head against his shoulder, burying his face in it. Viktor's hand reached up, weakly hooking into Jayce's vest. He sniffled softly. Jayce's arms wrapped him in a hug again. "You're safe here, Vik. W-We're both safe right now." 

Viktor managed the weakest nod. He felt significantly less sick, but his body was still aching and wrong. "How about we change? You can put on that hoodie. It seems like it makes you feel better." The other Jayce's fire station hoodie did make him feel better. He glanced up at Jayce quietly, hoping he didn't mean that in any envious way. He was only met with genuine worry and Jayce's troubled face as he tried to internally problem-solve. "Do you want me to get it for you??" Viktor was a little surprised at that and he wiped his eyes. 

"It would not make you unhappy?" He asked quietly. Jayce paused.

"...You'll wear the top beneath it?" He asked in a small voice. Viktor paused before nodding. He could wear something from both of them. Jayce stared at him before leaning forward. He pressed his lips to his forehead before getting up and quickly hurrying out of the bathroom. Viktor felt his cheeks flush. He did remove the vest, wanting any kind of constriction off of himself. He also flushed the toilet to do away with his sick. He remained on the floor, having folded the vest and put it up in the sink counter. Viktor hugged himself, squeezing his eyes shut. He paused as he heard Jayce trip and swear in the hallway, a weak smile pulling at his lips. Jayce appeared with the hoodie. "Here..." He knelt down, helping Viktor into it. 

Viktor pressed both the fabrics to his chest. The thick cotton of the hoodie and the smooth, silky fabric of the top. He finally opened his eyes to meet Jayce's. "I wish he could be here to comfort you too." Jayce admitted, his shoulders sunken. "I feel like I'm going to make things worse and I don't even know how." He turned his head away and Viktor watched him. "I want to... I want to help you and comfort you and support you, but I'm scared I'll just... I'll just accidentally fuck it up somehow. And... I was so scared for you when they were all there that I think I was about to pass out and then I would've been more than useless, fuck!" Jayce instantly devolved into upset again as he raised a hand to his forehead. "I just... I really wish he could be here so you actually have someone that knows what they're doing and can properly support you." 

"...I-I am no longer becoming sick or screaming. I am draped in fabrics that bring me comfort and remind me of the two people I care for most." Viktor said softly. He glanced up at him. "I think you have to give yourself more credit, Jayce." The tease was so weak that Viktor was surprised at how effective it was. Jayce's face went pink and he reached out, pulling Viktor into a warm hug. Viktor melted into it, his eyes slipping shut. "...I feel better, Jayce." He said softly. "Thank you." 

"Y-Yeah, of course." Jayce responded, sounding more than a little relieved. He pulled back and cleared his throat, carefully fixing Viktor's hair. "Do you, uh, want to get off the bathroom floor now?" 

"Too good for the tile, are we?" Viktor responded with a weak smile. Jayce paused, his eyes wide. It seemed to click for him that Viktor felt good enough to joke again and a grin spread across his tearstained face. "I would like to be in a bed. I do not care which." Viktor said softly. Jayce quickly helped him to his feet, Viktor's legs shaking as he leaned on his cane once it was given to him. Jayce led him out of the bathroom and into his room for a change. It seemed Jayce had stocked up on puffy pillows for his bed. Viktor's eyes softened, wondering when he'd even had the time to get all of these. He sat on the edge of the bed, placing his cane aside before moving himself so he would have his back to the wall. He practically sunk against the pillows. 

The lights went out, but the lantern came on, casting the room in gold. Jayce soon joined Viktor in the bed, his eyes tired, warm, and embarrassed. "Sorry about all the pillows. I like having them built up around me." He was lying on his stomach, his head against the pillows and his arms shoved beneath them. "Let's try to meet up with him... I'm... I'm feeling a panic in my chest, but it's... next to my own, if that makes any sense. I think it might be him reacting to mine." Jayce sounded a little relieved at finally being able to know and describe feelings like that. Finally knowing what they were. 

"Jayce." Viktor's voice was soft. "I do want you to know that you are just inexperienced with my kind of... troubles. There is no competition between the two of you. You support me quite well and, undoubtedly, you will get better. He's older and, consequently, he would know more about some things. You will get there, alright? I am trying to get better too." Jayce stared at him before giving a small nod. He glanced aside, still troubled, but clearly appreciating the words. "I will try to pull you into the space." He looked him over before giving a weak smile. "I'd appreciate if you start landing on your feet instead of your face." 

Chapter Text

The space rumbled with distant thunder. Viktor sat in front of the colorful pond, three pillows nestled around him. He had nothing else but a blanket to his name, his body being that watercolor-swirled white silhouette from the waist down. His hair glowed that ethereal white and he had his eyes closed. 

Something entered his space. 

The footsteps were approaching so quickly that Viktor was momentarily confused on who it was. He turned to look, the blanket bunched up over his shoulders. The older Jayce burst into the small circle of trees with wide eyes. "Viktor??" He quickly approached and knelt down, reaching out to him. "Are you okay?? What happened?? All of a sudden, I was having a panic attack in the middle of dinner and I couldn't stop thinking your name." Jayce looked distressed. "Something involving you scared him so badly that it affected me." He sounded a little taken back by that. 

Viktor paused before shuffling to face him. He must've had some kind of distress written on his own face, because Jayce's eyes softened. Viktor held the blanket tight around himself before his hand poked out, palm facing upwards. Jayce blinked before taking it in both of his, warming his slender fingers with calloused hands. "...The host of the Frost Gala assured me I could have the library to myself and it would be guarded. However, a powerful politician and a group of men paid off the guards to let them in anyway." Viktor kept his voice from shaking and he kept his head down. "...I think the younger Jayce being there saved me from something very, very terrible happening to me." Viktor's voice strangled itself into a whisper and tears were running down his face before he could stop them. 

"...Oh my god." Jayce whispered, his eyes wide in shock. "Oh my god, Viktor. Here." He softened his voice, gently tugging his hand. "Come here please?" Viktor paused before shuffling forward. He melted into the older man's arms and he could smell the faint scent of garlic bread in his clothes. Warm and freshly baked. Viktor reached up and slid his fingers through Jayce's beard before desperately pulling him forward. Both of them pressed into the kiss with equal fervor, Jayce's hands slipping into the blanket to hold his waist and lower back respectively. Viktor finally pulled back, tears glittering in his eyes. "Did he defend you?" 

"Quite. He is only ever confrontational by incident, but I feel he would've become quite a problem if the situation had escalated. It..." Viktor felt a weak smile pull at his lips. "It very much helps that you are both over six feet tall." Jayce seemed surprised by that before giving a weak laugh. This Jayce's hold was protective and firm. His heart was felt racing. "I am alright. I am within the safety of our home now." 

"He better be with you in that bed." Jayce stated instantly, his brow furrowing. "I don't want to hear that he left you to sleep alone after something like that." Viktor felt his face go a little hot as he glanced aside. 

"He is with me." Viktor said softly. "He is scared and he is shaken, but he stayed." Jayce seemed relieved by that. He reached out, guiding Viktor into a softer kiss. Viktor felt his cheeks flush and he leaned into it. His heart was racing again, but not the sickly rhythm he'd been subjected to in the past hours. Viktor teared up as he pulled back. He inhaled shakily. "...I thought it was over. I thought I would die." Jayce quickly shook his head. "Jayce, i-if your other self had not been there-" 

"But he was. He was, and I know, for a fact, he would've fought for you." Jayce assured him. He reached up, gently cupping Viktor's face and rubbing his thumbs along the sharp cheekbones. "What matters is that it didn't happen. It didn't happen. You’re safe and he didn't need to get physical, from the sounds of it. You both got out of there and you’re safe now." Jayce's beard tickled Viktor's skin as he pressed small kisses to Viktor's jaw and neck. "Don't torture yourself with hypotheticals, okay?" Viktor kept his eyes to the side. "Viktor." His eyes moved back to Jayce, who smiled. "Hey."

A weak smile pulled at Viktor's lips and he faced him again. "Hello." He responded softly. Jayce's eyes were so warm and Viktor wondered what he'd done to warrant such a strong affection. "I've called for him, but he never lands on his-" 

Something came crashing into his space and Viktor sighed heavily. 

"-feet." 

The older Jayce had gotten up, tucking pillows and blankets around Viktor as he stared in the direction of the sound. The younger Jayce soon appeared through the trees, his neatly styled hair made of starlight. "Hey!" He paused, stopping abruptly as the older Jayce started to move towards him. "Oh, uh, hey." He startled as the older Jayce wrapped him in a tight hug, making him stumble. "Oh!" 

"Thank you. Thank you for keeping him safe." The older Jayce spoke gratefully and shakily. The younger Jayce seemed downright shocked for a moment before his shoulders sank. 

"I-I didn't even do anything-"

"But you would've." The older Jayce pulled back to look at him knowingly. The younger one froze up before giving a nod. The older one still had him by the shoulders. "Do you know how important you just being there is? Before, during, and after. You stayed with him. That is so important, I need you to understand. You did more than most already." The younger Jayce stared at his older self for a moment before tears welled up in his eyes. 

"I-I was t-terrified for him-"

"I know. I know." The older Jayce spoke comfortingly and Viktor pushed himself to his feet, making his way over to them hesitantly. He didn't want to interrupt, but he, at the very least, wanted to be close to both of them. "You did incredible, okay? Look. Look, he's still with us." The older one glanced back at Viktor as the younger Jayce broke down crying. Viktor quickly moved forward, the blanket slipping from his shoulders and revealing his body of moonlight. He wrapped his arms around the younger Jayce, who quickly held him, his shaky hiccups still heard. Viktor felt the older Jayce's hand on his waist and he flushed, burying himself against the younger Jayce's chest. He tipped his head back and leaned up, pressing their lips together.

The younger Jayce seemed to relax into the kiss, his arms felt shaking around Viktor. "You did well to keep me safe, Jayce. Whether you feel you did or not. I am still here, am I not?" Viktor whispered the words against his lips and the younger Jayce let out a weak, strangled noise of stress. "I know... I know..." He kissed him again. 

"I-I think I need to sit down." The younger Jayce admitted in an exhausted voice. Viktor braced himself and, sure enough, the younger one sat down right where he was, landing them both in the dark purple grass. The older Jayce was heard grunting as he settled next to them. "...Good gods." The younger Jayce buried his face against Viktor's head as he held the other against him, Viktor sitting sideways in his lap. He startled as his free hand was guided upwards and he felt the older Jayce's lips against his knuckles. Viktor gave a weak smile. He could tell that the validation from himself, of all things, had greatly calmed the younger Jayce's nerves. His body felt much looser. 

"Hey." It seemed like the older Jayce was actually speaking to his younger self, who Viktor felt startle. "Why do you keep repeating that verse? You know that it gets stuck in my head if you start thinking too hard about it." Viktor glanced up at the younger Jayce, who went dark red. "Do you only know the last verse?" 

"V-Viktor told me it once. I wanted to try and remember it because it seemed like he really liked it." The younger Jayce explained in a completely flustered tone. Ah, Viktor knew which one they were talking about now. His own cheeks went a little hot. The older Jayce laughed, his thumb rubbing gently over Viktor's knuckles.

"Do you want to learn the rest of it? It's only four stanzas. I would rather have the whole thing bouncing around my head if you're just going to repeat it." The older Jayce seemed to be making sure it was obvious he was just teasing, but it also seemed like he was genuinely offering. 

"Would you teach it to me?" The younger Jayce instantly perked up. Viktor smiled, his shoulders relaxing a little as he let them talk between themselves. Well, if they were going to be reciting poetry... Viktor's eyes scanned over his space until he saw movement across the pond. His eyes softened. As he thought. 

Both his child self and Jayce's were already peeking out from behind a tree. Viktor kept his smile before he slipped his eyes shut, giving one Jayce's hand a gentle squeeze as he leaned against the other's chest. Faint thunder rumbled in the distance. 

Chapter Text

"I am here to escort the Intersect-" 

"Viktor." 

"...I am here to escort Viktor back to the Academy, at Professor Heimerdinger's request." Marcus stated, clearly unamused by Jayce's interruption. Viktor gave a small sigh through his nose. It was time for him to switch over again. "As a result of last night's... incident, I am to take Viktor an alternative way to the Academy that does not require going past the Council Hall." At that, Viktor finally realized why the Sheriff had come to pick him up so early. Jayce wouldn't have time to clean up and join them. He could see Jayce realize that too and his shoulders sank a little. Marcus stood in the hallway outside Viktor's apartment. Jayce turned to him. Viktor was properly dressed and ready, but Jayce had just woken up. He stared at Viktor weakly. 

"I know, Jayce, but I am always to go to the Academy to be under Professor Heimerdinger's watch." Viktor gave a small smile. "Surely I will see you in the nighttime."

"You will??" Jayce asked, lighting up instantly. Viktor felt a little flustered at how excited he got and Jayce seemed to notice, quickly clearing his throat and turning his head aside. "Th-That's great. I, uh, I'll see you tonight then." Viktor gave a small smile. 

"Keep an eye on this place, please." He said, Jayce nodding eagerly as he watched Viktor move to Marcus' side. Viktor could feel Jayce's gaze on him, even long after he'd shut the door. In the stairwell, Viktor was well aware of Marcus' irritation from having to wait for him to descend the steps. He glanced up at him with a furrowed brow. "...My apologies, Sheriff, but I physically cannot move faster than this with stairs." 

"It's alright, sir. It's not something you or I can control." Marcus answered, doing well to hide the undertone of exasperation beneath his words. When they finally made it out of the apartment building, Viktor's leg was already protesting. He was used to Jayce helping ease the weight whenever he took the stairs. Viktor's shoulders sank as Marcus started to lead him a different path than he was used to. He could only imagine how messy the investigation that had been launched was. Two of his officers accepting bribes to allow a group of men into a space they shouldn't have been. Viktor's hand tightened on his cane as he walked. 

He was excited to see the older Jayce again. Go home to his much messier apartment. Sleep in his cheap, puffy cotton covers. The thought alone was already causing a smile to pull at his lips. As they walked, Viktor was growing more and more concerned. The sun was growing awfully close to the position it usually was when he switched over. "Sheriff, I hate to cast doubt, but if we do not hurry, we will not make it to the Academy on time." 

"There is no need to rush, sir, we will get there." Marcus answered, his assurance bordering on condescending. Viktor furrowed his brow. 

"Actually, I feel there is good reason to rush! I understand if a longer path was needed, but the time constraints should have been taken into consideration!" Viktor exclaimed before startling as Marcus abruptly stopped and turned to him. Viktor stopped as well. Marcus regarded him with irritation. 

"What time constraints?? He'll still be there when we arrive." Marcus sounded like he was trying to soothe an unruly child and Viktor stared at him. They were near the Bridge of Progress, Viktor able to glance to the side and see Zaun right across the river. 

"...You do know why I am called to the Academy at this time, right?" Viktor asked, completely taken back. Marcus only stared at him and his eyes drifted past him. Viktor paused and his hands tightened on his cane as he froze up. He could hear footsteps. More Enforcers. Why were there more?? He saw movement out of the corner of his eye and stared over at the bridge. He didn't recognize this woman. She was tall and muscled, wrapped in a cloak around her shoulders. However, one of her hands glinted, seeming to be made of metal. The people that followed behind her... Viktor felt like he was interrupting some kind of meeting. That he was very much somewhere he was not supposed to be. 

"Sir!" Marcus' sharp voice made him jump. "I asked you to elaborate on your question!" Did he?? Viktor could hardly focus, his head spinning. 

"Is this him?" The woman's voice was gruff and unimpressed as she stopped next to Marcus, looking Viktor over. Viktor had no doubt that he was in danger now. It was a different sense of danger than the one he'd felt at the Frost Gala. His heart was pounding. He wasn't terrified, like the other event had made him. But he was still scared. What was happening?? 

"Sheriff?? Who... are these people?" Viktor asked uncertainly. He turned to look behind him at the Enforcers who seemed to be actively blocking any means of escape. He turned to look back at them before glancing up at the sky. Just a minute more. Marcus seemed to ignore him, turning to the woman. 

"It's him. He's got an attitude about him." He stated flatly. Viktor furrowed his brow, a little taken back. Despite this, he remained quiet. He just had to wait. The woman turned and looked him over with a furrowed brow. 

"...Why are you Intersects so skinny?" She muttered. Viktor paused and stared at her with wide eyes. Plural? Did... she know Ekko? Or did she know the other one?? Viktor hesitated before pretending to stumble. He dropped his cane and it clattered across the ground, drawing everyone's attention. Viktor shut his eyes.

"Good GOD, boy, you are filthy!! You're getting dirt and dust and who-knows-what all over my carpet!!" Benzo's exclamation made Viktor open his eyes, greeted with the man's office in the fire station. He turned to look. Ekko was, indeed, coated head to toe in dust, it even making his white hair a dirty grey. He was grinning ear to ear.

"It ain't my fault! The Chirean live all the way underground!" He protested immediately. Benzo scoffed and shook his head as he sat at his desk. His gaze was warm, despite his clear exasperation. He turned to look at Viktor and his smile dropped.

"Viktor. What's happened?" He asked, getting up from his desk. Viktor's heart was pounding as he finally released the tension from his shoulders. He'd just escaped a dangerous situation, but he was to switch back to the exact spot he'd left. By all technicalities, he supposed he hadn't escaped at all. He'd only delayed it. 

"Viktor??" Ekko moved over to him, reaching up and holding onto his sleeve with a furrowed brow. Viktor stared between the both of them, barely able to open his mouth, let alone bring himself to speak.

"I..." Viktor swallowed and he blinked as Ekko disappeared before the sound of a chair being pulled over was heard. Ekko reappeared and tugged him down, Viktor inhaling shakily as he sat. His hands slowly moved to clasp in his lap. "I think I was about to be kidnapped." He admitted shakily. "I-I was brought to the Bridge instead of th-the Academy, I thought I w-was being brought the long way. I..." Viktor held a hand up to his head. Even though it wasn't the kind of danger he feared most, that was still a lot of danger. "There were so many people. I-I think they will be waiting for me when I return." Viktor's voice was becoming strangled as his vision blurred. "Oh gods, I think I'm in trouble. I-I think I may be about to die. I think I a-am going to be killed-"

"Viktor! Viktor, take a deep breath, boy." Benzo interrupted quickly. Viktor was shaking as tears ran down his face. He squeezed his eyes shut and tried to breathe. 

"Wh-Where is Jayce?" He managed, his hands squeezed tight in his lap. 

"He got caught up in traffic! He's on his way. I bet that man is racing to see you. 20 over the speed limit, at the least." Benzo assured him. He looked Viktor over. "I got a damn good feeling of who you were going to be taken to see, if you were brought to the... what's it called?" 

"The Bridge of Progress." Ekko stated quickly. Benzo nodded and turned back to Viktor, his arms crossed. 

"As soon as I finish up here, Ekko and I will go see Vander and your old man. See if we can find a way to get you out of there from our side, alright? You just need to go with Talis and settle down. You're paler than paper." Benzo told him. He glanced up as footsteps were heard thudding down the hall. Ekko took a large, awkward step backwards from Viktor's chair as the older Jayce yanked open the office door. "Talis. Knock next time." Benzo stated firmly. 

"Sorry, Chief." Jayce quickly came in, his eyes wide as he saw Viktor. "Hey. Hey, what's wrong??" 

"I want to go home. Now, please." Viktor said, his voice a little strangled. Jayce stared at him before instantly nodding. 

"Of course. Y-Yeah, let's go." 

Chapter Text

The drive back to Jayce's apartment was filled with nothing but the music from the radio. Viktor could only stare forward, his hands tight on the new cane that Jayce had bought for him. His heart hadn't stopped racing and he hoped he wouldn't pass out from it. He nearly had a heart attack as Jayce opened his door. He hadn't even registered that they'd reached their destination or that Jayce had even gotten out. "Hey." Jayce offered his hand to him and Viktor could only stare for a moment. 

"...Hello." He whispered softly. He inhaled shakily. "Could I request something childish of you?" He asked in a soft voice. Jayce paused before moving over to stand closer. 

"What is it?" Jayce asked, his voice and gaze gentle. Viktor stared at him. 

"Would you carry me?" He asked after a moment. Jayce seemed surprised by that before a smile appeared on his face. He pulled his keys out of his pocket and handed them to Viktor. Viktor's shoulders sank in quiet relief. He scoot forward and Jayce effortlessly pulled him into a bridal carry. Viktor kept hold of his cane and the keys, Jayce shouldering the Jeep door shut. Viktor actually made sure to lock it. He unlocked the front door once they reached it and Jayce laughed a little. Viktor glanced up at him.

"Carrying someone like this over the doorway is pretty important in this world, you know." Jayce told him softly. Viktor paused and he felt his face go hot. 

"I-If it makes you uncomfortable-" Viktor was cut off as Jayce easily stepped over the doorway before pulling Viktor up a little more to kiss him. Viktor relaxed and his eyes slipped shut. He heard Jayce use his foot to shut the door. Viktor reached up, sliding his fingers along Jayce's bearded jaw. His chest felt warm as he pulled back. "M-Make sure to lock the door." He reminded him. Jayce gently set him down before locking the door. Viktor paused and glanced back. The open room still smelled faintly of garlic bread. It was a pleasant smell that made Viktor perk up just a little bit. 

"Hey, Viktor?" Jayce moved over, offering his hand. Viktor was momentarily surprised, taking it and feeling his ears go hot as Jayce kissed his knuckle. "Uh, where is the other me right now? Anywhere public?" Viktor stared at him and he swallowed softly. 

"Uh... no, h-he's in our apartment." Viktor said softly. Jayce's eyes were warm. He leaned down and his face hovered in front of Viktor's, silently asking for permission. Viktor felt his jaws part a little. "...Gentle." He requested softly. 

"Always." Jayce murmured, leaning forward and meeting Viktor's tongue with his own. Viktor nearly melted, Jayce's hands holding him up by his hips. This sweetness and this firm control always made him weak. He had to guide the other Jayce, but this one let him relax. This one already knew what to do. Jayce's hand slid down and Viktor gasped against Jayce's lips as he felt him start to gently rub his palm against his clothed clit. Jayce was panting. "I missed you so much." He murmured the words against Viktor. Viktor's face was hot. Jayce's other hand moved up to cup the side of his head. Viktor leaned his head into it and he shivered as Jayce started to press little nips and kisses into the pale skin of his neck. Viktor was already pushing his hips up into Jayce's hand, albeit a little shamefully. Jayce's other hand slipped through his hair.

"I love you." 

Viktor inhaled softly. Two versions of Jayce's voice at once. Older and younger. He felt warmth flood his chest as he stared at him. Jayce pulled back a little. "Was that too sudden?" He asked worriedly, moving his hand to cup Viktor's cheek. Viktor shook his head, awestruck as he stared at him. He reached up and tipped his head into Jayce's hand, his breath warm against his calloused palm. Viktor could feel the buzzing under his skin and he blinked. Out of one eye, the older Jayce was watching him warmly. Out of the other, the younger Jayce was leaned back against the pillows of Viktor's bed, his gaze soft as he seemed to laugh and bury his flushed face in the fabric. Both of them opened their mouths.

"I love you."

Viktor felt tears well in his eyes and he blinked away the vision of the other world. He finally pushed forward, initiating a deep kiss of his own as he pulled Jayce down by wrapping his arms around his neck. He'd dropped his cane entirely. Good fucking gods, he hadn't realized just how bad he needed this. Jayce shivered. Viktor startled as Jayce scooped his arms beneath his thighs, pulling Viktor up. "Jayce!" His gasp was playful and scolding, Jayce grinning and kissing his shoulder. He started to walk forward with him and Viktor held onto him, his eyes wide. Jayce slipped into the bedroom and laid Viktor down into the puffy sheets of the bed. Viktor's whole body felt wound up and he hadn't been kidding when he'd told the younger Jayce that he was near insatiable when he finally had someone he could trust. 

He needed this and he needed him now. Too much had been happening. The Frost Gala, the Bridge. Viktor wanted to stop thinking just for a little bit. Gods, he just wanted to feel nice. Jayce stared down at him and his eyes were so affectionate that Viktor almost wanted to hide himself. "Jayce..." Viktor breathed out his name softly and the older man parted his jaws in excitement. Jayce leaned down, his elbows on either side of Viktor's head. He pressed him down into the bed with another deep kiss. Viktor shivered, able to feel Jayce's bulge pushing against his own clothed folds. 

"What can you handle?" Jayce asked softly, scanning him over. "What do you want me to do for you?" Viktor gave a small tremble. "Maybe just... Hah..." Jayce started to grind his hips into Viktor's and the younger man groaned as he felt that monster pushing against him. Jayce was breathing heavily. "This feels even dirtier than us being naked, h-huh?" Viktor had to agree, covering his mouth as he nodded. He was panting. He swallowed before hooking his good leg around Jayce's waist. One of Jayce's arms moved and Viktor felt him tap at the waistband of his pants. He gave a small nod and the fingers slipped into it. 

"Ah!" Viktor gasped as Jayce started to rub circles onto his clit, almost seeming to mimic the motions with his tongue as he met Viktor with another deep kiss. "H-Hah..." He inhaled softly before a hiccup suddenly escaped him. His eyes widened and he suddenly yanked his head away, squeezing them shut as tears erupted down his face. Immediately, Jayce's hands withdrew and he pulled back from him. He was panting, but his eyes were full of concern. No. No, what happened?? It had been going so well. Viktor didn't know what had happened and he didn't know why. All of a sudden, everything felt wrong. He hugged himself, drawing his legs in. "I-I'm sorry. I'm sorry, I-I don't know what happened, I'm sorry... I-I was enjoying it, I d-don't know why-"

"H-Hey. Hey, it's okay." Jayce interrupted gently. He offered his hand and Viktor grabbed it, pulling it to his chest and letting Jayce feel how his heart raced. "It's okay... I think we both went a little fast. I'll slow down." Jayce promised. "...You've been through a lot in just the past two days, Viktor. I-I'm honored you even got this far with me. Thank you." He pressed his lips to Viktor's bad knee and Viktor's teary eyes widened. He only hiccuped again. He felt shameful and gross. He felt wrong. He felt guilty. "Viktor... Hey, Viktor." Jayce almost sang out his name, getting his attention. "Just focus on me, okay? Focus on me. Focus on breathing." 

Viktor did as he said, trying to focus on Jayce through blurry eyes. He didn't know what happened and it only upset him. It had been going fine, why had he suddenly crashed?? He blinked as Jayce's other hand gently brushed his cheek and he pressed his face against it. "I-I'm sorry, J-Jayce." Viktor managed again. Jayce shook his head. 

"Viktor, you feeling comfortable and safe is more important to me than anything, okay?" Jayce told him softly. That only worsened the ache in Viktor's heart. He hiccuped. "You're still healing. You've improved so much, but you are still recovering from something terrible and the hypotheticals of a new terrible situation." Jayce spoke comfortingly. Viktor stared at him before finally pushing himself up. He held Jayce's hand tightly to his chest. "Can I hug you properly?" Viktor nodded before blinking in surprise as Jayce spoke in a much more joking, playful tone. "I'll try not to poke you." 

As he was pulled into his warm arms, Viktor finally started laughing, sinking into his hold. "With that monster? You've failed already, I am afraid." Viktor's voice was muffled into his shoulder as he weakly joked back. Jayce chuckled. 

"I hope it's not too much of an inconvenience, Viktor." He teased. Viktor broke out in weak laughter again. 

"I am not the one wielding such a weapon." He stated matter-of-factly, pulling back to look at him. Jayce grinned, gently wiping away the tears from Viktor's face. "...Seems it could use a sheath, no?" Jayce instantly froze, his face suddenly going completely red as he stared at Viktor. He leaned forward and pressed their lips together again. That gross feeling was fading away and Viktor was feeling better once more.

"A wordsmith, huh?" Jayce breathed out against his lips. "Smooth talker?" 

"Natural-born poet, I'm afraid." Viktor whispered back, a glimmer in his eyes. 

Chapter Text

Viktor stared at himself in the mirror with huge eyes. He tugged at the sweater vest, running his fingers over the fluffy yarn. He reached his hand back and a smile appeared on his face as he found the knitted hood. He'd never seen a hooded sweater vest before. He wore a simple, long-sleeved shirt beneath it. "You, uh, not saying anything isn't really doing anything to help my confidence." Jayce commented, leaning against the doorway of the bedroom. He'd been nervously watching Viktor put it on. Viktor glanced over before giving a small smile. 

"Mm, Jayce Talis asking for praise?" Viktor teased lightly. Jayce blinked and turned his head away with a small cough as his cheeks flushed a little. 

"J-Just..." He glanced back at him. "...Do you like it-" 

"I love it." Viktor answered almost instantly, turning to him with a smile. "See how easy that was?" Jayce stared at him before scoffing and rolling his eyes. Viktor's own eyes drifted down to the fabric again, his hands moving up to feel at it. He was sitting on the edge of the bed. "You made this, Jayce?" Jayce paused before glancing aside. 

"...My mother made it. I just told her what colors you seemed to like most. She's been hearing a lot about you from me." Jayce admitted. Viktor glanced up at him with wide eyes, his face going hot. "She keeps saying she wants to meet you, but I told her you have to be comfortable first." He scoffed. "I think she's just excited that I'm seeing someone again." Viktor's eyes softened on him as Jayce rubbed his bearded jaw anxiously. "She says I, uh, I seem happier. A lot more... sound?" Jayce fumbled with the words uncertainly. He gave a small laugh. "You have no idea how fast her eyes lit up when she heard you know a Robert Frost poem by heart. I don't think she quite believed me either." 

"...I feel it would be quite a blow to my pride if she continued to think such a thing." Viktor commented softly. Jayce's eyes instantly flicked up to his, both of them wide. "Does she often get visitors?" Jayce remained quiet as he shook his head. "Ah, I am not sure I can allow that either." Jayce seemed stunned, to say the least. He uncrossed his arms and hesitantly moved into the room. He sat on the bed next to Viktor, his eyes wide. 

"Are you sure?? I didn't want to push you about it. Her place is all the way across the city and you don't like when we drive." Jayce sighed before blinking as Viktor leaned against him, burying his face against his arm. "How soon do you want to see her?" 

"How soon can we?" Viktor asked curiously, his voice gentle. Jayce stared at him before glancing aside. "Today, I suppose?" 

"Would that be okay? For you? I can call her and let her know we're coming over. She'd... She'd be ecstatic." He paused. "Oh, what about your hips??" His face went a little red and Viktor felt his own face go hot. "I-I mean, we did just..." 

"Th-They are not sore, Jayce." Viktor replied in quiet embarrassment. "And I have a limp anyway, do I not?" 

"Viktor!" Jayce broke out in laughter, though he was very clearly flustered by his answer. 

"I would like to thank your mother for her handiwork in person." Viktor said quietly, leaning against him. Jayce glanced over at him. 

"I think she'll be thrilled to see you wearing-"

"I meant you, Jayce." 

Viktor kept his words soft, hoping that he hadn't said something unbearably corny. He was already flustered just letting the sentence drop from his mouth. He watched as his words clicked in Jayce's mind and his golden eyes went wide, looking over at Viktor as his face turned red from his ears to his shoulders. Viktor stared back up at him before clearing his throat and quickly sitting up straight, turning his head away as he kept his hands tightly in his lap. "...I apologize. I didn't mean to just-" Viktor paused as Jayce's hand gently slipped into his view. He followed it back in time for Jayce's lips to press against his. Viktor froze up before slipping his eyes shut and leaning into the kiss. Jayce seemed much more desperate, like he was trying to pull more words from Viktor's mouth. "Mm... Hah!" 

Viktor gasped as he felt Jayce's hand inside his sweatpants. He had been planning on changing to nicer pants after their shower, but he'd gotten sidetracked. He let Jayce lean him back against the bed as he started to rub his clit again. Jayce was insatiable and that was okay. Viktor was too. He kept up best he could, his arms sliding up around Jayce's shoulders. Jayce's fingers slid down and Viktor inhaled softly as two of them sank inside of him. He imagined their fun earlier had made it easier. Jayce began to thrust his fingers, his palm grinding against Viktor's clit. "Jayce... Jayce..." Viktor breathed out his name, his eyes half-lidded and hazy. The affection and adoration that Jayce wordlessly gave him was bordering on too much, but Viktor kept himself strong. He'd never had someone so painfully want him like this. "W-Will she like me?"

"She'll love you. She'll love you so much, Viktor." Jayce promised breathlessly. He began to speed up his fingers and Viktor gasped, pushing his hips up. "You're smart and you're handsome. You know poetry and you..." Jayce stared at him with such awed eyes. "You make me so happy." All of the praise caused Viktor to squeeze tight around his fingers, him grabbing at the blankets and pulling them in to hide his face under. His walls gave a dangerous flutter and his leg followed with a twitch. Something was building in his stomach so much faster than he expected and Viktor's hips awkwardly snapped up as it crashed over. 

"JAYCE!!" Viktor wasn't sure what happened to him and it was so overwhelming that he unconsciously shoved Jayce away before hiding himself in the blankets. He slammed his legs shut and curled up on his side, taking in heavy, shaking breaths of shock. What had he just done?? What was that?? "I-I'm sorry, I-"

"Have you never squirted before?" Jayce's question was soft and worried. Viktor froze up before squeezing his legs tighter and hiding himself with his thin calves. 

"I-Is that something normal??" Viktor asked, pulling the blankets down just a little. Jayce nodded, his face flushed. 

"Usually only happens when you feel... really good, I guess." Jayce replied softly. Viktor hesitated before giving a small nod. "I, uh, I should probably change my shirt. I'll be right back. You should... change your pants." Jayce suggested with a small, awkward grin. "Don't want to scare my poor mother, you know?" 

"And whose fault would that be??" Viktor replied with a weak huff as he pushed himself up. His heart was racing, but it was keeping him warm instead of hurting. "...You are insatiable, Jayce." 

"Says you?" Jayce teased gently, leaning forward with his hands planted on either side of Viktor. Viktor felt his face go hot but he covered it up with a scoff, leaning forward himself. He pressed their lips together before his slender fingers started to grope and stroke the bulge Jayce was trying to hide. "Ah, fuck!" Jayce panted against his lips and Viktor felt a smile spread across his own. Jayce's hips gave a tremble. He hesitated as he panted before leaning forward and burying his face against Viktor's shoulder. "Hah... are you sure all of this isn't... too much for you??" Jayce asked worriedly. Viktor paused. "W-We're starting to do stuff like th-this a lot, but I don't know if you..." 

"I feel safe with you." Viktor stated. He massaged the length of Jayce's clothed length, making the larger man shudder. "And I am attracted to you... greatly so." Viktor's own face was hot. "And, yes, I know we are simply joking about it, but... I... need this kind of connection so badly. To be loved so carnally and heavily. And I need to love the same." Viktor let out a shuddering breath. "Am I being too much??" 

"No! N-No, fuck..." Jayce pushed his hips into Viktor's hand. "Pl-Please touch me more." Viktor paused before his hand moved up. He wouldn't take Jayce's length out of his pants, but his hand would join it. He traced his nails just under the head of his length. "A-Any touch you can handle giving... an-any touch you can handle getting... is so fucking important to me." Jayce told him breathlessly. "Even if it changes. Even if you can't handle being touched at all one day... or all you want to do is fuck another day, I'll meet you." The words were so blunt and honest that Viktor's face went red to his neck. 

"...You are too kind to me." Viktor wasn't joking. He wasn't teasing. He didn't understand how Jayce did it. How Jayce could say things like that to someone like him. He started to roughly drag his thumb up and down the underside of Jayce's length. The older man gasped and wrapped an arm around Viktor as his length gave a heavy throb. Viktor's hand cupped the head of the length and squeezed. Jayce made an absolutely unintelligible noise as he came, his eyes slipping shut. Viktor could feel his release coating his hand and he pulled it up. He stared at it for moment before bringing his hand to his lips. 

"Viktor...? Oh, fuck." Jayce's concern became hushed shock as he watched Viktor's tongue swipe the release from his fingers. It reminded him of a drink he'd had in this world once. Root beer. He cleaned off the last of it and took notice of Jayce's wide-eyed stare. He instantly swallowed and turned his head away, hiding his face. "Hey, I didn't mean that in a bad way. I just... you haven't done that before. You didn't feel forced?" Jayce's hands gently cupped his cheeks and Viktor was turned to face him. He shook his head, reaching up and holding onto Jayce's hands. 

"No... No, I wanted to." Viktor said softly. "I... want to taste all of you... as you have tasted all of me. It will just... It will take me a good bit to work up to that and, e-even then, I do not know if I can guarantee-" Just the thought of using his mouth or throat, even if it was Jayce, was making Viktor nauseous with fear already. Jayce got his attention.

"Hey, hey. I won't ever expect that of you. Whenever you want to try it, I'm yours. We'll do everything at your pace and, if you can't get through it, that's okay too." The older man told him. He gave him a smile. "You’re pushing so hard for me. I just want to be your safety net, okay?" Viktor stared at him before nodding after another moment. "I'll get cleaned up and call my mother to let her know we're coming. I already met your father, after all. It's only fair, isn't it?"

"I suppose... You are absolutely sure she will like me, Jayce?? Is she... odd... about...?" Viktor hesitated before gesturing to himself. Jayce paused before glancing aside.

"She's never... exactly met a man like you before. She might... start getting invasive. We don't have to tell her yet. I haven't told her." Jayce added. Viktor hesitated. He knew transsexuals weren't as casually regarded in this world as they were in the other. At the very least, Jayce's mother would just be curious instead of hateful. But... Viktor sighed and shook his head. "That's okay. We don't have to tell her. But, to answer your other question, yes. I think she'll adore you."

Meeting a new person just as himself. Not as the Intersect. Not as someone regarded as important. Just him. Just Viktor. He allowed himself a smile.  

Chapter Text

Viktor was watching the wall with a pounding heart. The older Jayce had an arm wrapped around his shoulders from behind as they both sat on the bed. "...You really think it'll work? Both of your... calculations?" He asked quietly, watching the wall as well. 

"I have little reason to believe it will fail. However, I had to discuss with the Arcane. I am worried that this method of bridging will genuinely hurt it. After all, it is cutting a hole between worlds and stitching it back up again. The Arcane is what holds the worlds." Viktor's fingers curled into the puffy bedsheets anxiously. "He said he would activate it as soon as I switched over." They'd carefully planned this so Viktor would reappear in Jayce's apartment. He and the younger Jayce were going to test the prototype of their device. The younger Jayce had volunteered to be the subject. "He should be activating the device now. I told him I would be waiting." Viktor paused. "That we both would." He felt Jayce smile against his shoulder, resting his cheek against it. 

When Viktor had returned to the other world a couple months ago, he'd found himself alone in the street next to the Bridge of Progress. The Enforcers assigned to guard it had been shocked to see him and instantly escorted him to the Academy. Apparently, Marcus had been 'kidnapped' by Zaun, but Viktor knew better. It was a clever way to avoid confrontation. The Sheriff would return a 'hero', having survived the 'brutal' Zaunites' torture. Viktor knew nothing he said would overshadow that. He was almost angry at how smart it was of them. Viktor's fingers curled into the puffy blankets. He'd just switched over and the younger Jayce was supposed to follow any second now. 

"Your heart is pounding." The older Jayce murmured softly. "Try to relax a little. If it doesn't work, you said there wouldn't be any harm done." 

"Except to my pride and his ego." Viktor replied softly, glancing back at him. Jayce gave a soft chuckle. Viktor had met Jayce's mother, Ximena, more than a few times now. She adored him. She adored him so much and she would often tell Viktor how much better Jayce seemed now that he had him to lean on. And Viktor felt like he could actually believe it. Jayce's apartment had become more organized. A little cleaner and very much looked like it was occupied by more than one person now. Two coats, two pairs of shoes by the front door, two plates in the sink at a time. No alcohol, just milk, hot chocolate, and orange juice. With how much Viktor allowed Jayce to touch and hold him, Jayce had relaxed so much that he felt safer not taking his medicine for small periods of time when he would just feel too nauseous to do so. 

Viktor even let this Jayce approach and hold him from behind. Of course, there were conditions to it. He couldn't do it as a surprise and he couldn't grab him with any kind of force. He had to be slow and gentle. He had to ask if he could. In the safety of the apartment, Viktor had relaxed a lot. Jayce had even taken notice of it, Viktor catching him staring with warm eyes on more than one occasion. The other Jayce still had a bit to learn, but Viktor had grown more comfortable.

That Jayce still touched him without saying anything, though he was much better about approaching him from behind. He was still erratic and excitable and he still gave Viktor headaches sometimes in the lab with how he had to keep him on track. Jayce was brilliant when he was at work, but he also tried to do three things at once all the time. 

"Excited to see two of me in my apartment, hm?" Jayce asked teasingly, his chin resting on his shoulder. Viktor felt his face go hot as he glanced back at him before looking away. 

"Just... excited to see if it works." Viktor replied quietly. "We've spent nearly every waking hour in the lab on this whenever I'm in that world."

"I know. You sleep the whole first day every time you come back here... and then you need attention the rest of the week." Jayce murmured. "You both have been working hard. I found you both asleep in that space. I didn't even know you could do that." Viktor felt his face completely flush. He hadn't known he could fall asleep in his mind space either, but he would never admit it. "And you’re sure he can handle being over here? I could always go over there." 

Viktor glanced back at him with a small smile. "I feel it is easier to enter a magicless world after living in one with it than the opposite. I would not wish to freak you out on the test run." Viktor said softly. "Besides, I have tried to explain Professor Heimerdinger to you four times and I still don't think you quite understand. I would rather you not accidentally offend the one whose school Jayce and I are still attending, not to mention the Head of the City Council." 

"Oh, come on. You think I would do that badly??" Jayce asked, frowning at him. Viktor raised a brow. 

"Tell me what you think a Yordle is, Jayce." Viktor rolled his eyes as Jayce almost instantly snorted at the name, burying his face in Viktor's shoulder and laughing softly. "You laugh at the name." 

"Ugh, I can't help it." Jayce mumbled into his shoulder, though Viktor could practically feel him smiling. Their moment was interrupted as a diagonal slice opened up on the wall in front of them. Viktor's eyes went wide. Inside, he could see those swirling, translucent colors. What looked like a liquid starry sky dripped down the wall beneath it, pooling on the floor. "...Holy shit." Jayce whispered quietly, his eyes huge. Both of them startled as a hand suddenly pushed through. Viktor quickly got up, stumbling for a moment as he grabbed his cane. He moved forward, reaching out and intertwining his fingers with that tanned hand. He gave it a squeeze. It was shaking and he could feel how nervous the other was. It was working. Good gods, it was working. 

It would be a little awkward for the younger Jayce to fit through the thin slice. Viktor carefully stepped back as the younger Jayce's leg came through next, followed by his hip. Finally, the rest of the man came through and the younger Jayce nearly fell over as he yanked himself free. He had the device on his hand and arm. He reached out and placed it at the top of the slice, activating the Hex Crystal inside. He flinched as glowing lines suddenly etched their way over the slice before pulling shut. They faded, but the wall still looked wrinkled. "Oh, uh, maybe that'll buff out." The younger Jayce mumbled. 

Viktor was on him in an instant, his eyes wide and teary. "You're here!! You’re here, Jayce!! Jayce, it works!! Gods, it works!" He exclaimed breathlessly, burying himself into the larger man. Instantly, the younger Jayce's arms wrapped tightly around him. 

"I-I know! I know! Fuck, we did it!! Good gods, Viktor, we did it!!" The younger Jayce quickly matched his enthusiasm and Viktor could see the older Jayce watching the both of them warmly from where he sat on the bed. "I-It was strange!! Viktor, it was so strange, it was like pushing through, uh, the thickest cobweb I've ever felt. Good gods, that was incredible!!" Viktor pulled back and looked him over quickly, reaching up and cupping his cheeks, much to the younger Jayce's delight. 

"Are you alright?? Do you feel any effects? Anything off?" Viktor asked quickly. The younger Jayce smiled brightly. 

"I feel this tingle on my skin, but I don't think it's anything-" 

The younger Jayce passed out so fast that Viktor almost fell over trying to catch him. The older Jayce quickly lurched forward to hold his younger self up off of Viktor. He laughed quietly, his eyes shining. "I was wondering if it was really that easy." He commented. He pulled his younger self over to the bed and laid him down, the younger Jayce's body completely and utterly limp. "He's out like a light." The older Jayce turned to Viktor before pausing. "Oh, hey, hey. He's alright." He quickly came over, reaching out and wiping Viktor's tears away. His eyes were wide in worry. Viktor hiccuped softly, quickly shaking his head. 

"W-We did it." He whispered. "I-I may not have to leave him behind." More tears welled up and the older Jayce's gaze became warm on him. "I can stay with both of you. I... I can continue to love both of you." 

"God, Viktor, that big, beautiful heart of yours." The older Jayce murmured, leaning down and kissing him gently. Viktor pushed back against him with a small tremble. He gave a weak laugh as he tried to wipe away more tears. "You just cut through the fabric of the universe and the only thing you’re worried for is me and him?" The older Jayce cupped his cheek. "I feel a breakthrough like that should be a little more important." 

"...You both are that important to me." Viktor admitted in a weak voice. The older Jayce's face tinted red as he stared at him before he laughed a little and pulled him into another warm hug.

"Congratulations to you both on your successful test drive." He said warmly. He glanced back at his younger self on the bed before turning back to Viktor. "Besides the obvious, what else do we plan on doing to entertain someone with the attention span of a chipmunk?" Viktor paused and glanced around him at his younger self before glancing up at Jayce. 

"I... I think we may have, eh... missed that in our planning."

Chapter Text

Thunder rolled in the distance of Viktor's space.

Viktor had the younger Jayce's head resting against a pillow on his lap, his hand stroking through his hair quietly. He was worried. The younger one hadn't woken since he'd passed out. The older Jayce had considered sleeping on the couch, but Viktor had begged him to stay and now his outside body was cushioned between two bigger ones. He was in the older Jayce's fire station hoodie, but that was it. He was nothing but a white silhouette from the shoulders down again, except for his opalescent chest scars. He still recalled how the younger Jayce had referred to lines stretching into his back as 'butterfly wings'. For the younger Jayce to still be sleeping in a place that was already a dreamscape, it was... It was worrisome.

Viktor's eyes drifted up to the colorful pond in front of him, watching the colors swirl around. He paused as he heard rustling and soft tapping. "Are you alright?? Did it hurt?" Viktor instantly called out, turning to look at the starlight children in dismay. He paused. His child self's nose was bleeding and Jayce's child self had a bandage over his cheek. His eyes were red and puffy, like he'd been crying. Viktor's shoulders sank. "...It does hurt you when we do that. Oh, gods, that is what I worried for." He stretched out an arm. "Please come here. Both of you." He requested softly. Viktor's child self started to limp over as they held their sleeve under their nose. Jayce's child self held onto their shirt as he followed behind them with tiny sniffles. 

Viktor carefully formed a handkerchief, holding it out to his child self as they gave a small noise of effort to sit down. They took it and held it under their nose. Viktor turned to Jayce's child self. "Does it hurt?? What happened? A cut just opened?" He asked worriedly. Jayce's child self came scampering over hesitantly before plopping at Viktor's side and nodding. Viktor's brow furrowed in worry. "We discussed before that using a Cleaving Rune to bridge the gap between worlds was a little..." Both of the children nodded, their shoulders sunken. "How badly did it hurt?? Good gods, I hope it was not painful."  Jayce's child self paused before shaking his head. "...Did it scare you?" The child paused before tears welled up in his eyes. Viktor sighed. He reached out and pulled Jayce's child self into a hug. "We should have found a way to give more warning. That was an oversight on my part. My apologies." 

Viktor's child self finally lowered the handkerchief, their nose having stopped bleeding. They still looked glum. Their eyes moved to the younger Jayce and became worried. "I am sure that seeing a person who is not an Intersect residing in a foreign reality is troubling to you. He did not break apart or wither away upon entering another world. But he has been asleep for quite some time. Perhaps passing through the rift wiped him of his energy." Viktor sighed weakly. "It was not our intention to hurt you. I hope you can forgive us. He does still have to get back, unfortunately." Both of the children nodded. They didn't seem angry or upset, just startled and confused.

Something entered his space. 

Instantly, both children perked up and it brought a smile to Viktor's face. He lifted his head, his eyes trailing warmly along the tree line until the older Jayce came trudging into view. The older man smiled as he saw all of them. Viktor's child self gave a small grunt as they got up, limping over to Jayce eagerly. "Oh? I think you might be getting spoiled." Jayce teased gently, though he still leaned down and scooped Viktor's child self up. The child instantly beamed as they held onto Jayce, their driftwood cane held against his shoulder. 

"Perhaps they would not be if you stopped carrying them every time they came scampering over to you?" Viktor called to him with a warm gleam in his eyes. Jayce glanced at Viktor's child self before looking back at him.

"Not a chance." He replied with a grin. Viktor rolled his eyes playfully. The older Jayce came over to them, glancing down at his younger counterpart. "He's out cold here too, huh?" Viktor nodded, giving a small sigh. "You don't think he's hurt, do you?" 

"No. But it is as I feared with the Arcane." Viktor guided Jayce's child self to peek out and show the bandage on his cheek. "Cutting a hole in reality also cuts the Arcane. It does not seem hurt, but it does seem caught offguard. I... I do apologize for that again." Viktor added to Jayce's child self, who shook his head as he clung to Viktor's arm and leaned against him. "A slice that is roughly 6 1/2 feet tall results in a cut on the cheek. We were hoping to create some kind of large-scale portal that allows for easier trade, but I fear it would take a limb every time it is activated. I do not want the Arcane to be in pain for our needs." Viktor said, his eyes drifting to the side. 

Jayce's eyes softened on him. He grunted, squeezing his eyes shut as he lowered himself down into a sitting position, shifting Viktor's child self so they could sit on his leg. "They don't seem too upset. Maybe you can just try it out once. We, uh, we saw in the bedroom that he's able to stitch the cut back up." 

"Even if the cut is able to be stitched up and healed, that does not change the fact that pain was inflicted in the first place." Viktor said, his brow furrowed. "The Arcane is a mind and body, as you and I are. It feels... cruel to do this." Jayce's child self glanced up at him before looking away. 

"I do not mind it." Viktor's child self finally spoke in a soft voice. "It only stings for a moment. If it makes my Intersect happy, I wish to try." Viktor glanced over at them and his shoulders sank.

"You should not have to be hurt to make me happy." He said quietly. "Not even for a moment. And if we are to send things like trade ships through, I worry for you. I do not wish to abuse your love and kindness. You are powerful, but you are delicate." Viktor's child self gave a quiet huff. 

"We will not know until we try. I want to help. We may try at least once. You... You wish to minimize distance between your own world instead of sending trade ships to the current one. I believe that to be... easier?" Viktor's child self seemed uncertain. "This has never been done before. It is exciting to find something new for a change." They leaned against Jayce. "It is so very hard to find something new." Viktor watched them warmly before he perked up as the younger Jayce shifted. 

"Mm?" He blinked open his golden-brown eyes with a groan. Viktor stared down at him before giving a weak smile.

"Welcome back, Jayce. How was your rest?" He asked quietly. The younger Jayce squeezed his eyes shut again. He raised a hand to his head. 

"I, uh, feel like I got a brick thrown at me." He muttered. "That's probably good. How long have I been out?" 

"All day, I'm afraid. Once you wake, I am sure this Jayce has painkiller for you." Viktor responded. The older Jayce nodded. 

"I laid it out with some water in advance. I figured you'd need it after passing out that fast." He assured his younger counterpart with a smile. The younger Jayce gave a grateful look before trying to push himself up. He seemed to visibly become dizzy, holding a hand to his head. He startled as his child self moved over and held onto his sleeve. 

"Oh. Hey, uh... me." The younger Jayce gave his child self a smile and he seemed to instantly return it. Viktor felt warm, seeing both of the older Jayces instantly go a shade of red at just how pronounced his tooth gap had been as a kid. They both glanced over at Viktor, who was smiling. 

"Do not worry. I see it." He said playfully. "I rather like it. This is quite nice, I think. Seeing you at three different stages of your life. Dare I say there is something poetic about it." The older Jayce chuckled as the younger one scoffed. His child self continued to beam, his chest puffed up. "I'd say we wait a day or so before bringing him to the station. It will be daunting for him to meet General Sterling for the first time." Viktor added to the older Jayce. Instantly, the younger Jayce's eyes widened. 

"You have a General at your place of work??" He asked in shock. A second-long glance between the older Jayce and Viktor was enough and the older one nodded. 

"General Sterling Silver. A tough old man. He demands respect and he won't interact with you unless you call him by his title, understand?" The older Jayce said, raising a brow. Viktor's child self gave a small giggle against him. Jayce's child self was smiling too, though the younger Jayce looked mortified. 

"O-Of course! I wouldn't dare disrespect a General!" He sputtered with wide eyes. Viktor had to cover his mouth to hide his smile as the older Jayce nodded solemnly. 

"Good. He'll be glad to hear it." 

Chapter Text

When Viktor left his space, he expected to wake up. As he always had. 

What he didn't expect was for something so sticky sweet to fill the air that it felt like it was clinging to the walls of his throat and lungs. He didn't expect to be thrown into a world of plum and scarlet. Where there was a vague purple-grey fog swamping every dark corner. And... an awful smell. The river. That polluted water swished around... mining boots? Viktor furrowed his brow. He'd never owned mining boots. His leg was screaming in pain, but he didn't have his cane. He didn't recognize the miner's outfit he wore. He didn't recognize these cave walls. Or the railway leading to an ominous opening. Just beyond that was candlelight. A chandelier. A room. 

Viktkr hesitated, leaning against the wall. He had to use it to limp forward and he startled as he nearly hit his head, swearing that whatever it was had just materialized out of thin air. He froze up as he saw it. A birdcage. A small body inside. A smoke-stained canary. Viktor stared forward. More cages with more dead canaries were hanging from the walls. He swallowed heavily. All of a sudden, he heard sloshing behind him and turned. 

"Viktor!" 

He relaxed a little, quickly turning to face Ekko, who was dressed in similar mining attire to him. "Ekko! Ekko, you are here too?" The boy moved to his side, his eyes wide and his nose wrinkled as he stared forward at the light. Viktor had felt a heavy pressure on his shoulders nearly the whole time. Perhaps it was because they were Intersects, but he was certain he and Ekko both knew what this place was. Not where, but definitely what.

This was another Intersect's space. 

The third one.

Viktor quickly stretched his hand down to Ekko, the boy taking it. It was more for Viktor's comfort than his. "...This is not your space and it is certainly not mine." Viktor murmured quietly. Ekko nodded. They'd been to each other's spaces a few times. Ekko's was smaller, likely since he was younger. It consisted of a giant tree surrounded by clouds and sunlight. The tree would always catch them. Always have a branch for them to climb. It had small rooms all in its trunk for sitting. Viktor liked it. However, this space was dark and smothering. It felt... dusty. Old, yet overused.

"The air tastes kinda like candy floss. But... if it was poisonous." Ekko tried to explain quietly. Viktor understood perfectly, inhaling softly. It was so disgustingly sweet. So toxic. "All the canaries are dead, Viktor." Ekko said softly. His fingers were dug into the sleeve of Viktor's jacket. 

"I will need your help to walk, Ekko. I do not have my cane and my leg is not well." Viktor whispered. 

"Yeah! Yeah, I got it." Ekko said earnestly. He offered his shoulder, making sure to keep pace with Viktor as they both moved forward through the cloudy water. It was so eerily quiet. The cavern held no echo. Viktor assumed this space belonged to an older Intersect, who had yet to Frost. It couldn't belong to Singed. When they emerged from the cavern, the water was replaced by wood. However, they both froze up as human figures appeared in the room. They didn't move. Viktor hesitated before moving forward. There were people sitting at the tables of what appeared to be a bar. "This is The Last Drop. Vander used to run this place." Ekko stated, seeming like he'd instantly recognized it.

Viktor approached one of the only figures with features. A statue of a woman leaning against the bar. The statue of the bartender across from her was huge. Viktor felt a chill. Both of them had features, but also a large red X fizzling over where their eyes would be. He recognized the bartender. He was certainly younger, but... "That is Vander. It must be when he was younger." Both statues looked like they were made from junk. Viktor moved back, letting Ekko climb up on one of the stools so he could look at the woman. His eyes widened. 

"Th-This is, uh, Miss Felicia. She was my... my friends' mom. She... She got killed by Enforcers in a riot." Ekko said, sounding shaken as he turned to Viktor. He helped the boy down and Ekko stared at the foggy ground, clearly upset now. "I don't get it... I know these people. But this isn't my space." Viktor was certainly worried. Singed had told him that an Intersect's space would always grow with age. Ekko's was currently just a tree and Viktor's was about the maximum size for what an Intersect's space should look like. This was... far too big. 

"You're right. It isn't your space." The voice of the man that spoke betrayed an age range and Viktor was momentarily shocked silent. Whoever this Intersect was, they should not have been alive. No Intersect had ever survived longer than 35 without Frosting. This man sounded much older. Viktor shakily moved in front of Ekko as an older man watched them from the staircase he was descending. He had a mask on. A bird. A canary. Viktor wasn't sure how the mask even seemed to look as dead as the canaries in the tunnel. Two different eyes shone from behind the mask and Viktor did not like the glow of the orange iris he saw. 

The man breathed in the purple smoke effortlessly. "How are you... alive?" Viktor whispered in shock, keeping Ekko tucked behind him. The boy clearly didn't like that Viktor was endangering himself, but he didn't speak up to argue. Not yet, at least. "You have not Frosted if you are still able to hold such a space. You should be dead." 

"Oh, I've heard that one many times." The man responded, summoning an already lit cigar to his fingers. He took a drag on it before blowing purple smoke circles out. The mask only covered the top portion of his face. He was well-dressed and Viktor startled as Ekko decided he was done being quiet. 

"What are we here for?? Let us go!" He demanded, still holding onto Viktor's sleeve with one hand. The man suddenly appeared in front of them and Viktor jerked back, yanking Ekko behind him. 

"I just wanted to get a good look at the both of you. I know where you are, Viktor. Your name is quite popular among the Enforcers and elites. You are hard to get, I'll give you that. I misjudged how fast that man would come find you after you switched over and were trapped inside the debris." The man added to Viktor, purple smoke billowing into his face and making him cough. "And you. Benzo's boy." 

"How do you know Benzo?? Keep his name out of your mouth!" Ekko snapped at the man, though he did remain behind Viktor. The man's mouth quirked in slight amusement, but it was anything except warm or friendly. 

"Benzo and I were old friends. Unfortunately, we... drifted apart." The man waved his hand vaguely. "But you, boy... Viktor may be hard to get to, but you have been hard to find. I know you’re still in Zaun, it's only a matter of time before I discover where. And you-" His gaze snapped to Viktor, who startled a little. "It is only a matter of time before I can wrench you out of that gold-gilded bubble you hide yourself in. I would've had you if that idiot had used his common sense." The man sounded annoyed. 

"Why? What use could you have for us? If it involves our Intersect abilities, I will not even be useful to you in two months time." Viktor said firmly. Ekko gave a small nod of agreement, pairing it with a glare. He was headstrong and stubborn, but even he understood that this was a dangerous man and a much more experienced Intersect. He was just a kid. 

"Mm, but if I can get you before then, it will make things easier. I need the both of you in order to orchestrate a reunion with some ample leverage." The man replied. He exhaled softly. "This drug can only help me switch between worlds for so long and I want to expand its purposes for commercial use." Viktor stared at him. Whatever he had just achieved with Jayce... this man had already figured out years ago. He couldn't believe it. The man chuckled at his stunned expression. "Not quite as smart as you thought you were, hm?" Viktor was pale as he shakily moved back. The man took a step forward. "While you play 'dress up' and 'mad scientist' with the Pilties, your people are starving and stealing in order to survive. Our people. You have lived in a spotlight of praise for so long that I believe you've long forgotten your roots." 

Viktor felt guilt flare up in his chest. He wanted to protest, but he knew better. While he knew his excuse was that the Piltover elites liked him too much to ever let him stay down in Zaun, it wasn't like Viktor had ever even tried to go back. He hadn't looked back once. Ekko's hand squeezed his and he glanced over to the boy, who stared up at him in worry. The man scanned them both over. "...I'll find you both. In due time, I will have you. The boy may be difficult to find, but you, Viktor..." The man gave him a wolffish grin, unbecoming of the canary mask he wore. "Once I find an opening in your gilded cage, I will pull you out myself." The man took another long drag of his cigar. 

Viktor had a feeling he knew what was about to happen and he carefully released Ekko's hand, shooting him a look that practically begged the boy to stay safe. "Two paths diverged in a wood..." The man murmured, watching them both in amusement. "...Goodbye." With the vague and downright dismissive flick of his hand, the man propelled them from his space. 

Viktor woke up as he hit the floor.

Chapter Text

Within seconds, Viktor had thrown himself beneath the bed and buried his head in his arms, his eyes wide and body trembling. "Viktor?! G-Gods, wh-what-" The younger Jayce was guided to silence by the older one's soft prompting. "H-He's under the bed! He just threw himself over me! What-" 

"A nightmare. Or some kind of night terror. I'm just glad it's inside this time." The older Jayce was heard grunting as the bed creaked above him. Viktor saw his feet appear before he slowly lowered himself to his knees. "Ugh, ow. Last time he got this spooked, he hid in the trunk of my car for two days." 

"...Car?"

"Viktor." The older Jayce's voice was soft as he got his attention. Viktor stared over at him tearfully and the older Jayce laid against the floor, stretching his hand out and holding it there. He wouldn't force him to take it. Viktor had to choose to. Viktor inhaled shakily. "Hey." That single word was always so soft and comforting. Viktor hiccuped quietly. Viktor was still trying to control his breathing, but he hesitated before reaching out and letting his fingers rest on top of the older Jayce's.

"Hello." Viktor's voice was nothing but a whisper as he trembled. The older Jayce gave him a comforting smile, his eyes patient and warm. Viktor didn't feel like he deserved that look. He heard the bed above him creak. 

"Is he okay??" It sounded like the younger Jayce, at the very least, understood that Viktor wouldn't respond if he asked him things. The older Jayce gently ran his thumb over Viktor's knuckle as he rolled his eyes in quiet exasperation. He gave a smile. 

"He's just a little spooked. He's alright, okay?" The older Jayce responded. There was a small shuffling. 

"...Okay." The younger Jayce sounded slightly dejected. "...Do you think I could fit under there?" 

"Absolutely not." The older Jayce responded scoldingly. "Not only would you not fit, but the last thing you'd want to do is crowd him." He gave Viktor's hand a squeeze before pulling his away and grunting as he sat up. "Listen, I get you want to be near him. So do I, but we have to be respectful of his space when he's scared. Unfortunately, we're both pretty broad and pretty tall." He was heard talking to the younger Jayce. "I don't think you really get that you're a big guy." The younger Jayce sputtered a little and Viktor gave a weak sniff of amusement. The younger Jayce certainly didn't. "Do you know how to make hot chocolate?" 

"Yeah! Y-Yeah, I can do that. Where is the... the stuff?" The younger Jayce just sounded relieved to be able to help in some way. The bed creaked as he slipped off of it and Viktor watched as he gave a small stumble. 

"Above the sink, cabinet on the left. The mugs are in the cabinet to the left of that one. Okay?" The older Jayce asked promptingly. 

"Yeah! Yeah, I got it." The younger Jayce was heard rushing out of the room. Viktor kept his head buried in his arms. He was still shaken. He could still taste that sticky sweetness on his tongue. He could still smell polluted water. Who was that man?? He was someone dangerous. Someone very, very dangerous. He must've been the Divergence that the Arcane mourned. It seemed like it missed him, and, of course it would. The Arcane loved all of its Intersects. It appeared in Ekko's space in the form of a snowy owl with neon green flecks in its feathers. It liked to perch on Ekko's head and Ekko had told Viktor that he was sure it was pretending to be part of his hair. It brought a weak smile to Viktor's face to remember it. 

He paused as something landed in front of him. How fitting. It was a moth. Tiny. Glowing. It fluttered over and its fluffy body settled on his hand as he held it out. He hadn't even realized the older Jayce had laid down again. "Pretty sure moths aren't supposed to glow like that. Is it the, uh, Arcane?" He asked quietly, his bronze-gold eyes reflecting the soft glow. The moth was white, but it gave a small flutter and Viktor watched as bubblegum pink and yellow appeared in fluffy swirls on its body. "Oh! Hey, a rosy maple moth!" The older Jayce laughed softly. The Arcane hopped around, seeming delighted that Jayce recognized it. Viktor gave a small smile. 

"These, eh... These occur naturally in this world? These colors?" Viktor asked softly, nudging the moth softly. The older Jayce nodded, leaning his head against his arm as the moth hopped up onto Viktor's finger. 

"Yeah. Unfortunately, when animals are brightly colored like that, it's a warning to predators that they taste bad or they're poisonous." He said quietly. "But a lot of people don't eat bugs, so they're just... pretty." The older Jayce's voice was soft. "Y'know a lot of people are afraid of moths?" Viktor blinked at him and glanced at the fluffy, bubblegum-colored insect. 

"...Really?" He asked in surprise. The Arcane continued to hop around, fluttering up and perching on Viktor's nose. He finally let out a soft laugh. "You are being quite silly right now. Do not hurt yourself." He scolded gently. Viktor finally found his stronger voice, glancing over at the older Jayce. "...I apologize that you must deal with me like this. I am so sorry." The older Jayce opened his mouth before pausing as the younger Jayce spoke, having returned. 

"Hey, uh... I don't know what stories Mama told you..." He seemed to be talking to the older Jayce at first as he settled into a crisscross position on the other side of the bed. He slipped the hot chocolate mug beneath it on a small plate. "But, uh, Vik... Mama always told me that good people are like sunlight. They glow brightly. Yet, when bad things happen to those people, they are forced to turn away from the sun. It's all too much and the glow dulls." The younger Jayce's voice was soft. "But that doesn't mean you lose your light. The moon reflects sunlight and it becomes something else. Duller, but beautiful." He was fiddling with his hands. "You aren't broken or a burden, Viktor..." Viktor could hear the smile in his voice when he spoke. "You're just made of moonlight instead." 

You're just made of moonlight. 

Viktor's eyes were wide and he couldn't control the warmth that overwhelmed his chest. Tears welled in his eyes. He inhaled shakily and carefully pushed the plate aside as the moth disappeared. He quickly dragged himself forward and the second he emerged from under the bed, he'd tackled the younger Jayce into a tight, close hug. "Oh! H-Hey!" The younger Jayce quickly hugged him back as Viktor buried his face into his chest, starting to cry softly. He'd never been told something like that before in his life. He hiccuped softly. He heard the older Jayce come around the bed. "D-Did I upset him?!" The younger Jayce asked in panic. The older Jayce shook his head as he settled down. 

"No. That was beautiful." He assured him. "I'm actually almost jealous." The younger Jayce gave a small laugh and Viktor could feel the worry leaving his body. He was so overwhelmed with emotion and he wasn't sure he liked it, so all he could do was hide. "Do you want me to start a shower for you guys?" The question seemed to surprise both of them and Viktor glanced over. "Don't look like that." The older Jayce teased gently. "All of us are not fitting in that shower and you know it." Viktor did know it and he gave a quiet sigh. He glanced up at the younger Jayce. It looked like the sun was just beginning to rise and he felt bad for waking both of them up so early. 

"Would you, uh, be okay with that? Showering with me? You... You don't like rain, doesn't a shower scare you?" The younger Jayce asked worriedly. Viktor shook his head. The older Jayce gently got their attention. 

"Viktor, if you want to get your robe and drink your hot chocolate, I'll show him how to work the shower." He offered, taking the cane from the side of the bed and sliding it to him. Viktor nodded and took it. 

"I... would appreciate you joining me." He told the younger Jayce. "I become...  frightened so I never shower alone." The younger Jayce's eyes softened sympathetically and he nodded. He helped Viktor to his feet, the smaller man steadying himself with his cane. The older Jayce guided the younger one to the bathroom and Viktor could hear them talking quietly. He felt a little embarrassed for getting so emotional and he wiped his eyes as he moved over to the closet, opening the door to fetch his robe. 

He paused as that glowing, bubblegum moth appeared, fluttering and landing on his hand. He drew it back, his eyes soft. "I am alright now." He told it gently. "You may fly elsewhere." The moth hopped and fluttered its wings before dissolving into starlight. Viktor gave a quiet sigh. He was made of moonlight. What a statement.

Chapter Text

"No, no, I'm not saying I don't trust you! I just... He really hates the sound of heavy rain. I don't want him to relive a memory that he doesn't have to..." The younger Jayce was heard speaking worriedly as Viktor finally approached the bathroom with his robe slung over one arm and his cane in the other. He'd finished his hot chocolate and he stood in the bathroom doorway, watching them quietly. 

"He'll sit on the seat typically. Out of the spray. This detaches. Lately, he's been running the water over himself, but he likes when I do it too." The older Jayce said, showing the younger Jayce. Viktor's shoulders were sunken. In all honesty, he felt a little stupid for how carefully he had to be tended to. Couldn't he do this himself?? Viktor's eyes drifted to the floor. He was a grown man, wasn't he? He furrowed his brow. He really couldn't shower alone?? He really just had to be coddled like this?? Frustration bubbled in his gut and scratched at his throat. "Got it?" 

"Y-Yeah." The younger Jayce still seemed uncertain, but he ran his hand under the water regardless, checking the temperature. "I can't believe nothing here is automated for you." The older Jayce snorted and rolled his eyes. 

"Please, wouldn't that be nice?" He turned and paused as he saw Viktor. His eyes softened and he moved over, gently reaching up and cupping Viktor's cheek. "What's wrong?" He asked softly. 

"Am I really that incapable?" Viktor asked quietly. "P-Perhaps I should try showering by myself again." The older Jayce frowned, but Viktor knew this conversation wasn't unfamiliar to him.

"I'll always let you try, but you've ended up in a silent mess the last two times. You wouldn't let me touch you for three days. You wouldn't even sleep in the bed with me nearby." The older Jayce said, giving a quiet sigh. Viktor remembered that and he knew why. Every time Jayce had appeared in his peripheral, he'd seen something else. Someone else. That man. Always reaching out to touch him. Always smiling. Always reaching. Viktor felt his skin prickle at just the memory. "I'm not discouraging you. You did finish the shower on your own the second time. And, hey, that's progress." Viktor stared up at him quietly before shifting his eyes away. "Do you think you want to try again? I'm sure he'll understand."

Viktor was quiet for a few more moments before shaking his head. Not today. Not this time. He didn't have the strength for it. The older Jayce nodded, leaning down and kissing him. "Call me if you two need anything, okay?" He whispered against his lips. Viktor nodded, staring up at him. The older Jayce moved past him and the door to the bathroom clicked shut. 

"Uh... hey." The younger Jayce was looking back at him quietly. Viktor managed a small smile in response as he set his robe on the sink counter. He started to strip off his shirt once he'd propped up his cane. "Oh, I guess I should do that too, huh?" The younger Jayce started to tug at his own clothes. Viktor blinked. Right, this Jayce was used to taking baths with him. They didn't usually see each other's bodies so directly while they were bathing. Viktor felt his face go hot as he held onto the counter, carefully stepping out of his pants. "Ah, fuck." Jayce muttered, halfway through his Academy uniform. He glanced up with a slightly red face. "...Can you sit on the seat in there while I get this off? I'd rather... try to do this without completely and utterly embarrassing myself." 

Viktor did manage a smile at that. He took Jayce's hand and the other helped him into the shower, where Viktor managed to settled himself onto the seat. Jayce moved back and Viktor could see his shadow cast on the curtain as he tried to get his uniform off faster. Viktor's hands were shaking. He hadn't even realized until he'd sat down, gripping the seat tightly. He inhaled softly and his good leg drew up in order for him to hug it to himself. He pressed himself back against the wall, turning his head away from the steady pummeling noise of the shower. Viktor felt a slight nausea and he squeezed his eyes shut. "Jayce... please hurry." He finally spoke, though he hated the way his voice trembled. Instantly, he heard movement. 

"I'm here! I'm here, sorry!" Jayce kicked his pants off his leg, finally bare. He didn't even bother acknowledging the temperature, quickly climbing into the shower and moving under the spray of the water. He hastily shut the curtain before kneeling down in front of Viktor worriedly. "Are you alright?? What can I do?" Viktor stared at him quietly. His neatly styled hair, likely only done from the pressure of Piltover's grooming expectations, was starting to flatten and undo itself under the water. Viktor's eyes weakened and he glanced to the side. Jayce hesitated, furrowing his brow at his lack of answer. Viktor was trying to calm his heart down. He wasn't sure where the rush of panic had come from. Jayce swallowed quietly before pushing himself to his feet. "...Can I kiss you? Or would that be too much?" 

Viktor paused and he glanced up at him. "I... I think that would be quite nice." Viktor whispered softly. Jayce lit up before leaning down. His hands gripped the seat on either side of Viktor and he pressed their lips together. Viktor slipped his eyes shut, one of his hands moving up to hold onto the back of Jayce's neck. He inhaled shakily against his lips once they pulled away. "Jayce... I feel like I am being coddled like a child and I do not know what to do." Viktor felt like this was the wrong Jayce to be having this conversation with, but he did want to know how he'd try to handle it. "I-I hide away when I am frightened... I cannot even shower on my own without tears... I still have these... random bouts of panic and terror. I know I am tiresome to care for and I do not know how either of you can stand it." 

Jayce stared at him with wide eyes before giving a quiet sigh. "...What happened to you isn't anything light, Viktor. That's why you do those things. I want to take care of you... It's not something I feel obligated to do. I like taking care of people. I like helping them. And... while it wasn't anything close to what happened to you..." Jayce's gaze became a little dark as he hesitantly clenched his jaw, shifting it around. "It fucks with you." Viktor instantly went pale and reached up to him, making sure to keep his thumb firmly tucked under his jaw when he cupped his cheek so it wouldn't fall slack. His shoulders were sunken. Jayce tipped his head into his hand, swallowing shakily. "I, uh, I think being able to take care of you is one of the only things keeping me together after that. Kn-Knowing I can help someone wh-who went through worse keeps my mind away from..." 

"I understand." Viktor whispered softly. Jayce fell quiet, seeming relieved as he nodded. Viktor had always wondered how Jayce took such an assault with such dismissiveness, but it seemed he didn't. He simply forced himself not to think about it. Busied himself. "Jayce... I am not forcing you to say anything, but I am not able to give you the proper care you need by myself." Jayce's eyes widened and he went pale. 

"W-Wouldn't he be disgusted?! G-Good gods, Viktor, I-I'm him!" He sputtered. Viktor's own eyes went huge and he quickly shook his head. 

"No! No, no. Your older self would want to care for you as he has for me. More than anyone, I think he would understand you best. And if we're all to be..." Viktor's face went a little hot as he averted his gaze. "...together... I feel we should be as open with each other as we can. Thoughts, boundaries, requests. He is like you. He likes helping people. He likes caring for them. Why would you be any different? If anything, he would know how to care for you better than anyone. I... I am not the only one who has been through something traumatic, nor do I think our experiences should be compared. We both need help. We both need care. More than anything, he wants to prove that he's capable of providing that."

Viktor carefully withdrew his hands and Jayce had his brow furrowed. His cheeks were pink as he leaned back, hugging himself uncertainly. It was such a small look on such a large man and Viktor found it endearing. He hesitated, gripping the edges of the seat before pushing himself up in his good leg. He took in a soft breath before slipping under the water with Jayce and hugging him. Jayce seemed shocked before pulling Viktor against him. It was like he was shielding him from the water. Viktor closed his eyes as he felt it pattering against his head and running down his body. "...You really think he'll be okay with caring for both of us?" Jayce asked weakly. 

"As long as we are able to show we care for him." Viktor replied, resting his cheek against his chest. "As long as he knows his efforts are not in vain." Jayce nodded. His hands moved, one gently wrapping Viktor's shoulder and the other holding the side of his torso. Jayce was keeping him slightly askew so he wasn't pressing against him. Viktor gave a small smile.

"We should hurry. I would not want to rack up his water bill any more than I already have." Viktor murmured softly. Jayce startled before quickly nodding, his face going pink, like he'd forgotten where they were. 

"R-Right." 

Chapter Text

It was just as Viktor had thought. He leaned against the doorway to the bathroom, clad in the fluffy robe the older Jayce had gotten for him. He watched quietly as the younger Jayce spoke with his older counterpart, wearing the robe he usually wore. Their conversation was too soft for Viktor to hear, but he didn't need to. The younger man's voice shook and his body language was small. He hugged himself as the older Jayce stared at him in shock before reaching out and hugging him. It seemed to shock the younger Jayce into silence before he teared up and held onto his older self. When he broke down crying, Viktor's hands tightened on his cane and his chest ached. He felt so... shitty. And it was rare he used such a vulgar word, but he was beyond upset. 

Viktor gave a nod to the older Jayce, wanting to be clear that he needed the younger one taken care of. He turned and limped over to the bedroom door, slipping out and closing it until it was just cracked. He moved over to the couch and shakily settled himself down. His hair was still damp and he inhaled softly as he ran his hands through it to push it back out of his face. He was trying not to get too upset. He was trying not to make noise or any sounds to give away anything. He didn't want either of them to come running. The younger Jayce needed to have his open moments and Viktor wanted the older Jayce to be the one to tend to him so they could grow closer. Viktor trembled and buried his face against his hands. What happened to the younger Jayce had been all his fault. It had been all his fault and he inhaled shakily. Somehow, trying to be quiet only upset him more.

He didn't want to draw any attention to himself. He wasn't the one who needed comfort right now. Viktor guided his legs up onto the couch and curled against it, squeezing his eyes shut as he buried his cheek against the cool leather. He felt terrible. He felt so fucking terrible and he didn't know how to stop it. Viktor couldn't make any indication that he was upset. He didn't want the younger Jayce to keep distracting himself from the comfort and care he needed. Not for him. Not because of him, on top of it. Viktor hiccuped softly. He dragged one of the couch pillows over to himself and hugged it tightly. His fingers furiously dug into the fabric and he squeezed his eyes shut. He felt cold and prickly and out of place. He was being too loud. He was drawing too much attention.

He stopped breathing. 

Viktor only stared forward. He shakily settled himself back against the couch. He would pass out soon enough. He just had to make it look like he'd fallen asleep. It would be harder to pass off this time, but he could do it. His head was already starting to swim as he rearranged himself on the couch. Tears ran down his face and he quickly wiped them away. He wasn't some child. He was a grown adult. He had to handle these things on his own. He had to. He had to let other people get the care they needed, especially if it had been because of him. He couldn't let people keep doting on him, but he also had to stop getting scared over everything. Viktor let out a weak sob of frustration. What? He was scared of rain sounds?? Was he three years old?? That event had to stop defining him. He had to get it out of his head. 

He had to get it out of his head. 

Viktor's head fell to the side and his brain was screaming for oxygen, but he wouldn't allow it. The younger Jayce needed comfort first, not him. Never him. Viktor should've known sooner. How could he not have seen it?? Of course Jayce wouldn't have just 'gotten over it', fuck! Viktor felt shitty. He felt so, so shitty and selfish. The darkness swam into his vision and he went limp against the couch, tears still running down his face.

Viktor came to the conclusion, for maybe the seventh time that year, that he hated himself. 

It had accompanied the disappointment of waking up alone. He should have been happy. He should have been happy that both of them had stayed with one another because that meant the younger Jayce could be properly venting and being cared for. Instead, he'd been saddened to find neither of them with him. That disappointment had been replaced with such a violent anger that he had almost burst into tears. What the fuck was wrong with him?? Other people needed care besides him. This wasn't about him. And so, Viktor hated himself. 

There'd been a good few weeks where everything had been nice. Where he felt like it was going to work out. Where he felt like... maybe he was enjoyable to be around. That maybe both Jayces really did enjoy his presence as much as he enjoyed theirs. That, if he suddenly disappeared, they wouldn't forget about him after a decade or so. Viktor gave a weak scoff. He was sure the aftermath would be devastating on both sides, but once they recovered, he was certain he would be nothing more than a nostalgic afterthought. Maybe they'd smile at his name, but they would've forgotten it by then, certainly. He had always been forgettable like that.

If he hadn't been an Intersect, he would be nothing at all. 

The thought made more tears climb to his eyes. He was standing before he knew it. His grip was tight on his cane and his legs were trembling. He stood in front of the apartment door, wondering. Leaving in just a robe would likely end in tragedy for him. If he brought a weapon... maybe he could end it himself before anyone could try anything. His hands shook. What if the older Jayce relapsed again?? What if he took the younger one with him?? What if they all...? Viktor couldn't stop the tears that streamed down his face. He hiccuped softly. This was a fucking disaster. 

Click.

Click? Viktor startled as the doorknob in front of him twisted and the front door suddenly pushed open. He took a wide-eyed step back. The man outside was covered in tattoos and he had gold teeth implanted on his bottom jaw. He raised a brow, half of his head completely shaved. There were other people behind him, also sporting gold implanted teeth. "Oh, well, if you're going to just be standing right here, that makes this easy, doesn't it?" He was holding a baseball bat. Metal. Dented. Viktor inhaled shakily as he saw it. "This could be easy. You guys are all about choices, ain't you?" The tattoo-covered man reached out and grabbed the lower half of Viktor's face with a startling gentleness. "Do you want to make a scene or do you want to go along nice and quiet? We came prepared for either situation." 

Viktor did not want either Jayce hurt. He stared at the man with wide eyes, who chuckled softly. "Ah, good boy." Viktor remained dead silent as he pulled his hand away. He turned to look back at the bedroom door, which was still cracked. He hoped that they were both sleeping peacefully. Tears had started down his face. He flinched as he heard scratching and looked back. The tattooed man had carved some kind of symbol into the wall with a pocketknife. The doorknob was physically broken from the outside. "Let's go, doll." He held out his hand and Viktor felt more tears running down his face as he took it, his bare feet leaving the familiar scratchy carpet of Jayce's apartment floor and out onto the pavement of the sidewalk. 

"Shut the door." The tattooed man commented to one of the other men. "Turns out, we don't need any kind of scene. Bring the truck around." He added to another man. Viktor watched as he ran off before glancing up at the tattooed man. "Oh, don't look at me with those teary eyes, doll." Viktor resisted the urge to flinch as the tattooed man held his chin, tipping his head up to face him. His own irises were so pale that Viktor could barely tell they were contacts. This world had such intense body modifications too?? "Were you planning on going somewhere in just a robe? Maybe planning on meeting someone?" The other men chuckled and Viktor felt like he was going to vomit if he tried to speak. He shook his head. "Then what were you waiting for? Maybe you already knew." 

There was a rumble and a sleek, black pickup truck with monstrous wheels and the length of almost two parking spaces pulled up. Viktor could see another black car following, but it was a little more beat-up and discreet. Both with tinted windows. The other couple men in the group seemed to load into that one. When the tattooed man opened up the backseat of the massive pickup, Viktor could see that the front and back of the truck were sectioned off, with the exception of a slot for speaking through. He really felt like he was going to be sick. He and the tattooed man would be the only ones in the back seat. "Up you go, doll." 

The feeling of unfamiliar hands around his waist, from behind, of all things, nearly sent him into a fit. But Viktor kept himself quiet and shakily pulled himself up into the truck, sliding across the cool leather seats to press against the other side as tightly as he could. He startled as the man pulled himself up into the pickup, leaning in to look at him with his pale eyes. He gave a grin. "Ah, don't let the teeth fool you. I don't bite." He snapped the gold implants on the last word and Viktor was frozen up. He hesitated, unsure of why he wasn't as threatened as he felt he should've been. The door slammed shut and Viktor flinched as the truck lurched forward. 

Chapter Text

The man's name was Finn. Viktor couldn't tell anything else as he watched him interact through the slot with the men in the front seat. Despite everything, Finn didn't actually seem that interested in him. Viktor had loosened up, but only a little. He had to take the time to readjust the robe so he felt... at least a little comfortable, given the situation. He also didn't like that all the seatbelts had been cut out of the backseat. He used his cane to keep himself from sliding around. The tinted windows made it hard for him to process where they even were, on top of him not liking to look outside car windows in the first place. Viktor kept his head down and his shoulders sunken. He felt the first trickle of something wet run down his face from his nose. Great. 

"Ugh." Viktor shakily raised a sleeve to his bleeding nose and Finn seemed to finally take notice of him. Like Jayce, he was a big man. He slipped the slot closed and turned to look at him. 

"Bleeding in my truck and I haven't laid a finger on you. You're gonna make me look bad, doll." He stated, tipping his head as he scanned him over. 

"...My apologies." Viktor managed quietly, though he almost instantly regretted it as Finn's gloved hand pressed against the window above him as he leaned in with curious eyes.

"Say something else." He was grinning like a wolf and those gold teeth did him no favors. "They didn't tell me you had an accent on you." Viktor shrank back a little. 

"You are bringing me to someone else then." Viktor deduced quietly, his shoulders tense. Finn scoffed quietly, reaching out and using one finger to tip Viktor's chin up. 

"I could just keep you." 

"You won't." Viktor responded softly. "I feel you may have been paid far too much for that." Finn paused and his mouth curled into a grin at the side. He seemed amused, yet Viktor could see annoyance beneath it. 

"Smart and pretty. He'll have his hands full with you." Finn murmured, pushing himself back to lean against the other side of the truck. Viktor paused, his brow furrowed. "You're right. There is... an exorbitant amount of money on the table for me to bring you to him. Slickjaws need money more than we need another mouth. No matter how pretty." Viktor held his cane closer to himself and his eyes lowered to the ground. Finn watched him quietly. "...I remember you from Zaun. When we would come see your old man." Viktor froze up and glanced over at him. Singed used to meet with dangerous people when Viktor was younger. He remembered that. He was never allowed to let anyone see him and he was never allowed to follow Singed. Perhaps that was why... 

"...Is that why your words towards me lack force?" Viktor asked quietly, glancing over at him. Finn paused. "You say those same innuendos and words that any man would, but there is not... anything concrete behind it. I have heard concrete words like those before..." His hands tightened on his cane. "I have felt their consequences." Finn furrowed his brow. 

"Watch your mouth, doll." He stated curtly, making Viktor jump a little. He sighed. "I do remember catching sight of you once or twice. You were little. The Doc ended our meeting early because you were too curious for your own good." His pale eyes drifted down to his cane. "Clearly too smart for your own good too..." He leaned back against the other side of the truck. "...We lured that asshole back to Zaun. That's why he came back. That's why everyone was able to get the jump on him." Viktor froze up and his eyes went wide. He looked over at Finn, who'd been absentmindedly clicking two of his gold teeth together while watching him. "We couldn't just let something like that slide... Let those 'good citizens' get away with it." 

Viktor was crying again before he even realized it, turning and burying his head against the hands holding the top of his cane. He hiccuped weakly. "Thank you." He could barely get the words out and Finn let out a small, bitter laugh in response. 

"Oh, don't thank me, doll. Not when I'm taking you where I'm taking you. Feels disingenuous." Finn sighed, still absentmindedly clicking his teeth. "I'm not sure you know where I'm taking you." 

"I do not know to where. But I know to who. There is another Intersect. He pulled me into his mindspace. Said he would find a way to get to me. I... suppose he was very serious about that. I did not think it would happen so soon. Did you already know where I was??" Viktor asked, glancing over at Finn. The older man didn't answer and he didn't need to. Viktor's shoulders sank. "...You were keeping an eye on me. You and your group. Because the people of Zaun always do so for one another." Finn gave a heavy sigh and his eyes finally averted as he shook his head. 

"You’re not making this any easier, doll." He said quietly. "I told you already. Exorbitant amount of money is on the table for you." Viktor stared at him before he squeezed his eyes shut and buried himself back against the truck door. He inhaled shakily. "He won't touch you. That fact was in unanimous agreement. No one will touch you." Viktor could hear the subtle assurance beneath the other man's snide tone. Even though he knew that wasn't what the mysterious third Intersect wanted him for at all, it still made him feel a little better. His heart hurt a little less. He swallowed and nodded, lifting his head. 

"...Do you even know what he will do with me then?" Viktor asked, looking over at Finn with tearful eyes. The other man held up his hands, clearly giving a negative, alongside the implication that he didn't even want to. "Right... Intersect business, I suppose. You are just to walk me to the execution." Viktor's voice was weak as he turned his head away again. "If he kills me, will you be able to live with yourself?" 

"Doll, with that kind of money, myself and a good amount of people in Zaun could live comfortably." Finn answered. "It's a tragedy, but you know what they say. One life or many." Viktor glanced over at him. 

"I suppose if I am what it takes for that to happen, that is how it must be. Nothing nice is ever just... given. Always a cost." Viktor whispered softly. Finn nodded, echoing the sentiment. Viktor was no longer threatened. He was just saddened and upset. He hoped the tent city of Zaun would receive food. He hoped they would receive clothes. He... "Were you going to hurt my partner??" He finally asked, his voice more strangled than it had been the whole time. 

"He would've put up a fight and you know it." Finn replied. Viktor was already nodding. Yes, he would've. They both would've. Even with the second Jayce there, Viktor doubted it would've gone any better. "You coming along so quiet kept a lot of things clean. Kept people alive." Viktor wiped his eyes, finally cleaning his face and calming himself down. 

"...You would have said no if it were a lesser amount." Viktor said quietly. 

"You don't know me, doll." 

"Of course... My apologies." Viktor said softly, his shoulders sunken. He was certain he would have said no. His words were for show. His display was for show. Unfortunately, Viktor was certain this man would have killed Jayce if he had to. He was also certain that Jayce would've done the same. He had a heavy pit in his stomach as he felt the truck take another turn. Finn sighed, leaning his head back and folding his hands over his stomach, his legs stretched across the seat. Viktor glanced at the bottoms of the boots pressing against his side, but he wouldn't comment.

It wasn't his truck. 

Chapter Text

Viktor sat on the edge of the truck seat quietly, his hands tightly clasped in his lap. They were outside of a car graveyard, Viktor able to see the grass reclaiming the oldest models beyond the fence. There was a warehouse inside the fence as well. An old automotive factory. Finn wouldn't let him get out of truck yet, but Viktor had asked if he could at least have the door open for clear air. Finn was leaned against the door, having sent one of his men to the warehouse. They were in the woods, from what Viktor could tell. He really felt out of place in his robe. Out of place and uncomfortable. In all honesty, it was nothing new. Except the situation. 

Finn had taken out a handgun, tracing his finger absentmindedly over the trigger. The safety was on, but Viktor was tense regardless. The guns of this world were so much louder than the other one. He kept it at his side. "There." Viktor spoke weakly and Finn glanced up before following his gaze. There was a group accompanying Finn's lackey back towards them. Finn let out a sharp whistle, following it up with a clicking from his gold teeth. His other men moved over. One of them was holding a shotgun and Viktor shrank back a little. 

"Sorry, doll. We ain't too friendly with him. The deal was we get the money before we hand you over. If even one bill is missing, it's off." Finn stated coldly. Viktor furrowed his brow. So there was a chance he could still return to the Jayces after this? He was uncertain. A twitchy blonde man kept eyeing him as the group approached and Viktor really didn't like it. The man looked in his late teens or early twenties. Viktor could recognize when someone was having a bad trip and this man certainly looked it. He made sure he was completely covered by his robe for the fifth time. Finn seemed to notice and he furrowed his brow. The gate creaked open and one of the women paused. Viktor blinked. He'd seen her in the other world. 

He startled as she moved forward and heaved Finn's man off the ground. "You didn't say anything about it being him!" She spat before throwing him. The smaller man tumbled away and dragged himself behind the others as Finn moved forward. 

"We brought him, didn't we?? The other Intersect. One of them, at least." Finn's mutter made Viktor go cold. Ekko. It sounded like they didn't know where Ekko was. "Didn't your boss tell you why we demanded so much money for this? Because it's him." Finn scoffed. "Looks like you might have been left in the dark." The woman turned to him with a furious glare. "The money." Finn stated firmly. "And we're not leaving until it's counted." The woman yanked a bulging envelope from her pocket and moved forward. Finn took it and opened it up. Viktor was a little stunned, to say the least. It was a lot of money. The woman's eyes shot over to him.

"You’re not even trying to run?" She asked, Viktor pausing. He hesitated before reaching behind him and pulling his cane into view. "Are you fucking serious?" Had they not told her he was crippled either? She put her head in her hand as Finn continued to quietly count the money. He finished and let out a small sigh. Viktor's shoulders sank. He was done for. Finn handed the envelope over to one of his men, who instantly disappeared to the other car. He turned and moved over to Viktor. 

"Hand on my shoulder, doll. Protect your modesty." Finn muttered, Viktor's hand shakily finding him. He flinched as Finn's hands lifted him by the waist before he set him on the ground. He let him go and Viktor steadied himself with his cane before moving forward with his limp. He was slightly grateful Finn hadn't made him try to slip off the seat on his own. Viktor heard footsteps and he squeezed his eyes shut as the truck started. He turned to look back, Finn casting him one more look before slamming the back door of the truck shut. Both the truck and the car roared off into the woods, leaving Viktor behind. He trembled as he turned to look at the woman. The blonde man twitched behind her again, inching forward to look at him closer, though one of the other woman yanked him backwards firmly. 

"Seems like you might be in trouble, 'Deputy'." That woman commented to the first. Instantly, the first one turned to her with an absolutely terrifying glare. Deputy? Viktor didn't understand. He paused as he was beckoned to follow. He didn't say a word, keeping his head down and following along. He was a bit slower and he hoped the rest of them would realize that soon. Viktor froze up as he felt a hand brush over his robe and he stopped dead in his tracks, his legs having locked up.

"I-I was told I would not be touched." He spoke much louder than he usually would, backing to the side. The blonde man snorted at him, taking another step closer. 

"Come on, honey, I heard you got something pretty down there." He drawled. Viktor was not a violent man by any means, but he was far too high-strung and far too upset about even being here to have this kind of behavior on top of it. Especially not by someone younger than him. The echoing noise of the metal cane colliding with the blonde man's head made Viktor flinch. He nearly fell over from both the weight and the noise, but he steeled himself and shakily stood up. He swallowed, watching as the blonde man struggled to push himself up. 

"I... was told... I would not be touched." Viktor repeated in a shaking voice. Tears had already started down his face. The woman seemed unbothered by the fact that he'd hit the man, as did everyone else. The blonde man pulled back a bloody hand.

"Oh, you bitch!" He hissed. Viktor tensed up as the blonde man stood up again. Was no one else going to intervene?? He startled as the blonde man yanked his cane from his hands, throwing it aside. Viktor was left stranded without it and the panic must've been clear in his face. The blonde man sneered at him. "Not so tough without your stick, huh?" He wiped his nose, which had started to bleed. "I can show you what a real one looks like." Viktor startled as several small items flew through the air and landed at their feet. 

Within moments, the air was alight with colors and sparks. Firecrackers. Viktor felt a smaller hand grab his arm, yanking him backwards. He heard the woman yell out a swear and Viktor could barely keep up, his leg screaming in pain as he was dragged along. He finally pulled himself together as he heard the whistling and banging of larger fireworks. They were approaching a fence. A gap in the fence. Who was...? Viktor paused. Vander's kid! The pink-haired one! What was her name?? Violet? And... Powder must've been nearby, if those firecrackers were any indication. "I know you're slow, but try to move!" She said, pushing him towards the gap. Viktor flinched as he pushed through, his biggest struggle being a way to keep the robe on him. He finally got through and he heard a loud bang followed by a shriek. 

The fence rattled and he looked back to see Powder, who was holding her bleeding shoulder. His cane. She'd gone back for his cane. "Fuck! Pow, you were just supposed to run!!" Violet snapped, though she was clearly panicked as she yanked her bleeding sister through the gap in the fence. 

"H-He can't move without this!" Powder protested. Viktor took the cane as Violet hoisted her sister up onto her back. She motioned for Viktor to follow quickly and he could feel the cuts opening on his bare feet as he tried to keep up. He wasn't even sure where they were going, but all he knew was that it had to be safer than here. Viktor paused, seeing the open sewer tunnel they were heading towards. He slowed to a stop, his leg quivering in place from the strain. He couldn't. He had open wounds on his feet. "Vi!" The teen skidded to a stop as Powder cried out. She turned to look back at Viktor incredulously. "He's got no shoes, Vi! His feet will fall off!" Powder protested again. Viktor supposed she wasn't too far off on that. 

"Fuck! Hey, go further down. There's an emergency door. I'll open it from the inside, it'll put us on a platform. Go!" Vi nodded further into the woods and Viktor nodded. His heart was pounding as he hobbled along, hearing the teen's sloshing footsteps disappear. He moved alongside the tube, though every step only put him into more and more agony. His leg was strained. His leg was strained and it hurt so bad. His feet stung from the cuts and he was certain the sparks from the firecrackers had burned him. He stumbled along, his eyes wide. He just wanted to go back to the apartment. To Jayce. Both of them. Tears welled in his eyes. He couldn't cry yet. He wasn't safe yet. 

Something creaked ahead of him and Viktor glanced up. A door had been pushed open from the tube and Viktor limped as fast as he could. He disappeared inside and Vi shut the door, turning the wheel to lock it. "Zaun is close by. We just have to follow the tunnel." Vi insisted, Viktor visibly trembling as he stood in place. The only light they had was from distant openings and small holes in the ceiling. Vi stared at Viktor. "...You have to go a little farther." Powder was watching him worriedly from Vi's back. 

"M-Mhm." Viktor managed. He started to hobble forward and Vi moved along next to him. Viktor was sure they were trying to speak to him, but he was so focused on not screaming and crying that he couldn't hear them. His leg hurt so much and he knew the wail of agony that he wanted to let out from his chest would travel for miles. He couldn't. He couldn't do it. He was scared and he was tired and his leg hurt. He was barely clothed and he was cold. He glanced over. A little girl had a bullet in her shoulder because of him. His jaws parted. 

"Oh, fuck." Vi whispered, having been keeping a close eye on him. The moment his jaws opened, Vi quickly slipped Powder off her back and moved over to catch Viktor as he collapsed, the darkness rushing in to numb both his vision and his pain. 

Chapter Text

Viktor woke up to the sound of purring, and the most absolutely agonizing ache in his leg that he'd ever had. Instantly, he bit back a whimper as tears filled his eyes. There was a small 'mrrp!' and Viktor managed to focus as Rio rolled over on her back in front of him, her mottled paws outstretched towards his face. He was lying in soft fabric and he flinched as he pushed himself up onto his elbows. "Woah there, lad. You aren't in any shape to be moving yet!" Vander's hand nearly engulfed his shoulder as he gently guided him to lay back down. Viktor was lying on his stomach, his leg felt propped up by soft blankets and pillows. 

Rio was rolling around on the blanket with him. He was inside of Vander's blanket home between the two trees. Vi and Powder were asleep nearby, though Powder had been changed to a sleeveless shirt and her entire shoulder was bandaged. It looked like it was nearly nighttime. Vander had been in the process of lighting the tent's lantern. He shook out the match as he shut the lantern. Viktor had the stark realization that he was wearing actual clothes. He froze up, recognizing them as some of his old ones. "Your father changed you. Vi and Powder came howling from the sewers like banshees, carrying you with them." Vander shook his head. "I'm sorry that you can't seem to catch a break, Viktor."

Viktor glanced over before keeping his face pressed against his arm. He hesitated, reaching out to Rio. She clamped into his arm, purring as she lightly bit his wrist. "...Ow." He mumbled. "Where is Singed? Is he here?" Vander nodded, casting a glance at him as he leaned back against one of the trees. He gestured behind Viktor a little further and he turned his head. Ah, there he was. Singed was sleeping among the bushes, wrapped in a tablecloth. He seemed like he was using that as his blanket. Viktor was sure that the old man had insisted he have all the blankets. Viktor managed to get his arm away from Rio, who pawed at it gently. "And Jayce?" 

"I sent someone for him. I don't doubt he's on the way." Vander assured him. "You'll likely be answering lots of questions, come morning though." Viktor gave a weak nod, though he was very decidedly not thrilled about that at all. Vander seemed to notice and gave a soft snort. "I know, I know."

"Am I safe?" Viktor asked softly, his voice barely a whisper. Vander glanced over at him, his thick brow furrowed and unhappy that Viktor felt he would have to even ask that. He wasn't offended, but rather saddened. He gave a nod and Viktor finally broke down, pulling the pillow tighter against himself as he started to cry. He kept himself as quiet as possible, refusing to go any louder than he already was. 

"Vi does that too. Keeps quiet like you. Tries not to let anyone see her. I'll remind you like I have to remind her. You’re safe to cry here. Loud as you want, long as you want. No one here will judge you." Vander spoke gently. He wouldn't look at Viktor, keeping his gaze firmly turned away. "You don't have to be strong here, alright, lad?" Viktor didn't even realize how badly he needed to hear that until the tears had started to pour down his face. 

"I-I am being hunted, V-Vander-" 

"I know. I know who it is." Vander replied softly, staring forward. He gave a quiet sigh. Viktor stared at him and his arms shook as he pushed himself up. Vander glanced over. "How do you think I know about Intersects, lad? Why do you think I'm so careful with you and Benzo's boy? I can't... let another one turn his back to me." Viktor stared at him and he sat back, his shoulders sunken. "You want me to tell you about him? That information isn't going to do you much good. If his reputation is what I hear in the other world and he's practically a ghost in this one... He'd be impossible to..." Vander rubbed his forehead. 

"I just want to know. I want to know who is hunting me. And who the... the Arcane misses so." Viktor added in his weakened, hoarse voice. Vander's own massive shoulders sank as he nodded. He grunted as he got up, making his way over before sitting in front of him. "Vander?" 

"We learned this trick a little bit ago. Him and I. A way to enter a space without sleeping. A way to have my own without being an Intersect." Vander replied quietly. He leaned on his knees. "Press your forehead to mine, alright? I know it'll be awkward, but trust me. If I say his name aloud, Powder will wake and she'll freak out." Vander sighed. Viktor stared at him before nodding. He hesitantly moved forward and pressed his forehead to Vander's, closing his eyes. "Nature's first green is gold, her hardest hue to hold." Vander's voice was soft and Viktor paused as he felt a tingling erupt in his skin, though it was all being pulled towards Vander. "Then leaf subsides to leaf." Viktor didn't know this poem, but he knew Frost. 

His vision was swimming with stars when he dared to open them again and it was all he could see. "So dawn goes down to day... Nothing

gold

can stay." 

Vander's space was similar to the masked man's. It had the same base. The Last Drop. Viktor pushed himself up from one of the tables, having to lean on it. He could see Vander at the bar, cleaning a glass with closed eyes. Viktor hesitated. "V-Vander. A cane?" He requested. Vander blinked his eyes open and a simple wooden cane appeared for Viktor. He took it and carefully made his way over. 

"Oh, look at you. I don't get to look fancy like that." Vander said, raising a brow. Viktor paused, realizing that Vander didn't sport the same glowing hair or the starlight body that he did. He felt his face flush and he felt exposed. He hugged himself quietly and Vander's eyes softened in understanding. He summoned a jean jacket and held it out, Viktor taking it and awkwardly slipping it on. "Come take a seat." He gestured to one of the stools and Viktor hobbled forward, sliding up onto the chair. "His name is Silco. He's around my age by now. So, somewhere in his late 20's-"

The disbelieving snort that Viktor let out instantly made him cover his face and his ears burned in embarrassment. Vander, however, burst out in booming laughter that seemed to lighten the air in his space. "Oh, not convincing? Perhaps I don't look as young as I thought?" Vander asked with a twinkle in his eyes that made Viktor finally burst out laughing as well. He felt bad for laughing, but Vander certainly didn't seem offended. Viktor fell into a weak silence. "I believe he was born in your world. We met when we were kids. When this tent city was more a village." Vander gestured to the side. Viktor followed his gaze to the side. 

A young teen was running as fast as he could towards a river and Viktor could tell it was a young Vander. To his surprise, Vander skidded to a stop and opened his arms. Another teen suddenly appeared from the air, crashing down on top of him with a grunt. They both fell to the ground. He had darker hair and a skinnier body. "Vander! I've said you do not need to catch me!" He exclaimed, his face red. 

"But I want to! You should see your face every time." The younger Vander teased with a massive crooked grin. The other boy scoffed as he pushed himself up on top of him. Viktor blinked as a girl suddenly appeared, also with dark hair. She was grinning. Viktor did recognize her. 'Miss Felicia', as Ekko had called her.

"Hey, lovebirds!!" She called out gleefully, the dark-haired boy going dark red as he groaned. "Welcome back, Sil! Fell right into the arms of your prince, huh??"

"If my prince stank like a gutter and had the charm of a sack of potatoes!" The young Intersect rolled his eyes as he scoot himself off of the young Vander.

"I like to think I have the charm of two sacks of potatoes." The young Vander chimed in, earning himself a swat. The memory dissipated and Viktor turned to look back at Vander with sunken shoulders. 

"Silco refused to Frost when the time came. And I think it may have had something to do with me. He didn't want to make a choice. Didn't want to choose a path. He started to appear with purple veins in his neck. He'd never tell me what they were from. Then, one day, he appeared with..." Vander squeezed his eyes shut. The memory that appeared was darker. A Vander in his thirties anxiously waited by the river. However, when Silco appeared, he was sobbing and bloody. Vander tried to help him, but Silco would only shove him away in fear and panic. Half of his face was torn open, the eyelid missing and pus already seen welling in the ripped flesh. The memory disappeared. 

Viktor jumped as the glass shattered on the counter, Vander having dropped it. He had his eyes squeezed shut. "...Ekko tells me he's killed the other one of me. The other one of Benzo. He leaves us alone in this world, but... It hurts when your lover leaves without a word. And knowing he was hurt by someone with your face. Knowing he had to kill someone with your face." Vander's shoulders were sunken. "He stopped coming back with me. He stopped talking to me so abruptly. Two days later, I lose Fel in a car accident. Got her kids..." Vander stared at the bar. "Silco became twisted by something that I did and I lost everything because of it." 

"Not you." Viktor said softly. Vander shook his head. 

"Doesn't matter, does it?" He asked weakly. "He wants to move as he pleases without the Arcane's input. Endlessly expend its energy. He wants its power." Vander closed his eyes. "I think... he may have been close to my other self as well. Consequences of having a heart meant for two worlds, I suppose." Viktor paused and he stared at Vander before awkwardly glancing aside. It was mortifying how fast Vander seemed to pick up on his predicament. "...You found the same soul in both worlds too, didn't you?" 

"Jayce would not hurt me. Neither of them." Viktor said softly, glancing up at him. "The Arcane has come to meet them personally. It likes them both." He said softly. "Perhaps it came to meet them because of what happened between you and Silco. It always says it misses him. That it is so very upset that he Diverged from it. That it couldn't help him more." Viktor stared at the bar before glancing up at Vander. "I am being careful. I am being so cautious that I'm sure it is maddening." 

"And you're certain of this, lad?" Vander asked softly. "Can't risk another... Divergence, y'know?" 

"I know." Viktor said softly. "I am certain." 

Chapter Text

Viktor startled as he and Vander were suddenly pushed apart, taking them both out of the space. His vision spun for a moment and he held his hand up to his head, squeezing his eyes shut. "Hey!" He jumped, glancing up at Vi's angered tone. She was glaring at him, having pushed herself to stand firmly between them. "I didn't rescue you just for you to immediately try weird shit with my dad!" She snapped at Viktor, her gaze furious. The level of embarrassment that Viktor suddenly felt should've been illegal. Vander scoffed behind her. 

"Violet!" The teen instantly scrunched up, Viktor left to assume that Vander didn't use her full name often. She moved from between them as Vander gave her a hard, scolding look. "He was not doing 'weird' to me, nor with me. What did I tell you about making assumptions??" 

"Cautious, not paranoid. Assume good intent, but watch for signs of bad." Vi muttered, glancing to the side. Powder was watching them uneasily from where Vi had left her against the tree. Vander nodded before firmly gesturing to Viktor. Vi clenched her jaw before turning to Viktor. "Sorry." She sounded more embarrassed than apologetic, but Viktor shook his head, saying it was fine. The sun had fully set and Viktor paused as he saw headlights fast approaching from the direction of the road. Vander followed his gaze before snapping his fingers. Powder instantly grabbed a pair of binoculars hanging from a branch. She peered them. 

"Jeep!" She chirped instantly. Viktor let out a weakened sigh of relief. Vander gave a small smile. 

"Told you he'd come running, lad." He said, chuckling. Viktor paused. He couldn't see from here and he glanced at Vander. 

"I, eh, I have discussed some things with the Arcane-" 

"Has the firefighter always had a twin??" Powder asked, still looking through the binoculars. Vander froze up before turning to look at Viktor in shock. Viktor managed a weak smile. 

"Viktor?? Have you orchestrated a crossover with the Arcane??" Singed's voice was shocked and Viktor jumped, turning to look back at him. Singed's eyes weakened and he moved forward out of the bush to sit next to him, reaching out and looking Viktor over quickly. When he didn't see any substantial injuries, he raised a brow at Viktor worriedly. Viktor scrunched up his shoulders before opening his mouth. 

"Viktor!" 

That voice was doubled and Vander and Singed both moved back as the younger Jayce instantly dropped in front of Viktor and dragged him close. The older Jayce was much slower. "O-Oh gods, Viktor, we both woke up and you were g-gone and the doorknob was broken a-and-" Viktor quickly stopped the younger Jayce's train wreck of words, not wanting him to hyperventilate.

"I am alright. I... I had to come along quietly or they would hurt you." Viktor said softly. "But they were adamant that I was not touched or harmed. It was just... humiliating... being trapped in a bathrobe and nothing more." The older Jayce winced as he lowered himself down. He reached out and Viktor quickly tipped his head into his hand when it was offered to him. He reached up, holding onto it. The older Jayce's gaze softened. 

"I, uh, I understand the police will be here in the morning for questioning, but are we able to take Viktor back to our hotel room for tonight? They're investigating the apartment right now." The older Jayce glanced between Singed and Vander uncertainly. The younger Jayce had buried his head against Viktor's shoulder, the smaller man's free hand holding him. Vander was watching them interact and something seemed to settle in his eyes, like this sight was a reassurance that he'd needed. 

"His leg is very strained. You must be careful with it." Singed finally told them, seeming to relent. "It will difficult for him to even walk." 

"I have crutches in the back of my Jeep." The older Jayce quickly got up. His movement was stiff as he hurried back towards the road. 

"You're from the other world, lad?" Vander asked the younger Jayce, who startled and nodded. 

"Ah, yes, it... it is nice to meet you both." The younger Jayce was clearly nervous, seeing how closely Singed was studying him. Viktor knew Singed was looking for any signs of Arcane corruption. Any sign that the Arcane was rejecting this Jayce's presence in this world. Yet there didn't appear to be any. They all glanced up as the older Jayce came back with the crutches. Viktor inhaled shakily as he stood, even the slightest pressure making him whimper. He took the crutches under his arms and let out a weak sigh of relief at the lack of weight. 

"I-I will be back tomorrow. Thank you both for saving me-" He spoke to Vi and Powder first. "-and thank you both for watching over me." He said to Singed and Vander. Singed handed the younger Jayce Viktor's cane. "Singed, I am sorry if I worried you..." He shook his head. 

"It's late, Viktor. We will discuss specifics tomorrow." He insisted. Viktor gave a small nod.

The hotel room was a welcome sight, but more so the bed than anything. Viktor hobbled over to it and he sank into the mattress with a small exhale of relief. "Was that where you used to live?? When you said 'tent city', I didn't-" The younger Jayce flustered as Viktor spoke.

"You did not think I meant 'tent city'?" Viktor asked, raising a brow at him as the older Jayce took the crutches. There were technically two beds, but one of them seemed completely untouched. Viktor wondered if they chose to sleep in the same bed on purpose. The older Jayce settled himself down against the headboard, a pillow tucked behind his back as he sighed. Viktor paused and looked back at him. He hesitated and the older Jayce blinked in surprise before opening his legs up a little. Viktor moved forward and he took a deep breath before laying himself against the older Jayce. His back was against his chest and he knew the older Jayce was waiting. "My waist, please." He requested. Those tanned, calloused hands slipped around him and he was finally hugged back against him. His back gave a small crack and he yelped before he broke out in soft laughter. 

The older Jayce's lips were felt smiling against the side of his neck. The younger Jayce watched them both before his gaze flicked back to the ground again. He looked like he wanted to ask something, but he also seemed like he was talking himself out of it just as fast. "Jayce? Do you have something to share?" Viktor asked with a raised brow. The younger one jumped and his face flushed as he turned his head away. 

"No, uh... yeah, no." He managed. "You're hurt, we should really prop up your leg-" 

"If you will not say it out loud, will you show me?" Viktor asked, his voice quiet. The younger Jayce stared at him with wide eyes and an open mouth. He hesitated as he swallowed before turning and climbing up on the bed. He glanced over Viktor's shoulder uncertainly, clearly wanting permission to approach from both parties involved. When he seemed to get it, he leaned forward. His lips hovered over Viktor's. 

"I-I was so worried about you. I'm sorry... I..." The younger Jayce's shoulders were sunken. "I should've come out to check on you." Viktor shook his head. 

"You needed comfort, Jayce." He murmured before pressing their lips together. The younger Jayce sank against him with a small noise. His fingers were already loosely hooked into Viktor's waistband. Viktor shivered. "Take them off." He whispered against his lips, it barely even bordering on a command. The younger Jayce treated it like one regardless. He stripped Viktor of his lower garments and he had one hand settled on his good thigh. He swallowed again. Those golden-brown eyes never left Viktor's as he started to press kisses down his stomach. Viktor felt his jaws drop open as the younger Jayce passed over his navel. "Hah..." Viktor shivered as he felt his lips on his clit. "Pl-Please remember to breathe, Jayce."

The younger Jayce seemed embarrassed by the reminder, but he nodded. Viktor jumped as he felt the older Jayce's beard brush against his neck as he pressed a kiss to it. He tipped his head to the side before gasping as the younger Jayce's tongue dove inside him. He lapped and sucked at him eagerly, his breaths warm and panting. "Mm... V-Vik... hah..." The younger Jayce could only breathe out syllables of what he wanted to say. Viktor's toes were curling at the soft squishing noises. He swore softly, opening his legs a little more. He exhaled as he felt both of the younger one's thumbs on him, pulling his folds apart even wider. 

His tongue dipped deeper and his nose brushed against Viktor's clit. He suddenly gave another suck and Viktor threw his head back, burying his face against the older Jayce's shoulder with a gasp. His tongue was relentless and the older one swore. "Hey. Breathe. Hey!" He reached out, pushing his younger self's head back from Viktor. His own cheeks were flushed in embarrassment. The younger one panted heavily. "Holy shit, you weren't kidding about that." The older one muttered to Viktor, who gave a soft snort of amusement. 

"S-Sorry... Sorry, I... You just taste..." The younger Jayce kept trying to explain and fell flat each time. "Fuck, I..." He raised a hand to his mouth and took a few deep breaths, seemingly to try and compose himself. "Y-You called it butterscotch?" He asked his older counterpart awkwardly. The older man laughed and nodded. He pressed his nose into Viktor's neck, the smaller man being the one quiet in embarrassment now. The younger Jayce watched them, clearly wanting something else now. He swallowed and glanced to the side. "V-Viktor!" He suddenly blurted out his name and, when Viktor jumped, he quickly covered his face. "Sorry... S-Sorry..." 

"Deep breath. Count to ten." The older Jayce interrupted him softly, holding out his hand. The younger one instantly reached out and took it, holding it tightly. He finally exhaled and glanced up at Viktor. 

"V-Viktor, can I please have you? Now?" The younger Jayce asked, his voice trembling. "Please? W-Would you be okay with that??" Viktor was taken back at how earnestly he was being asked and he furrowed his brow. He opened his mouth. 

"I always carry a condom in my wallet. You know that." The older Jayce suddenly murmured next to his head. Viktor froze and his face went completely red. The younger one perked up a little more at that and Viktor swallowed softly. 

"And you really would give up your virginity to me?" Viktor asked uncertainly. He barely even finished the question before the younger one was nodding. Viktor almost hid at his eagerness. "...Yes, Jayce, I-I would like that very much." He startled. "Please don't cry!" 

"S-Sorry!" 

Chapter Text

Viktor gave another small tremble as he kept his face buried against the older Jayce's bicep. The younger Jayce was between his legs, two fingers deep in him. He was watching Viktor so intensely that it was genuinely flustering him, even though Viktor knew he was only doing it to see if he was in any pain. The older Jayce gently kissed the side of his neck, his other arm wrapped around Viktor so he could hold onto it. "Angle your fingers to the left." He told his younger self. "Use your thumb to rub him." Viktor felt so embarrassed. 

"R-Right." The younger Jayce mumbled, angling his wrist and starting to thrust his fingers. Viktor let out a muffled groan into the older Jayce's arm as he felt a thumb rubbing his sensitive clit. His breathing was heavy and his face was hot. There were already obscene noises coming from between his legs and he swallowed shakily. He let out small noises, but kept them buried. The younger Jayce hesitated. "Hey, Viktor? Can I please hear you?" The question was so formal and startling that he squeezed around his fingers as he glanced at him with wide eyes. The younger Jayce's face was completely flushed as he stared back at him.

"Hah... Sorry... I-I am afraid of b-being too loud here. We are not in a particularly private place." He said breathlessly, his heart pounding. The younger Jayce nodded, seeming a little defeated. "I-I will do my best." Viktor whispered, the younger man perking up just a little. He started to thrust his fingers again and Viktor gasped, throwing his head back. "Oh! H-Hah! J-Jayce... Jayce, I-I feel you... Mh..." Viktor tried to keep himself hushed as he cried out. He heard the older Jayce let out a soft breath behind him, giving Viktor a gentle squeeze. Viktor shivered as a third finger was added and he felt stuffed, writhing around as they were thrusted in and out of him. Both Jayces were already tented, Viktor able to see the massive bulge in the younger Jayce's boxers. He could feel the older Jayce's bulge poking his back. "Jayce... please..." 

The younger one paused before slowly pulling his fingers out. They were absolutely dripping with slick and the younger Jayce stared at them for a moment. He suddenly held them up to his mouth and Viktor hid his face in embarrassment as the younger Jayce sucked his fingers clean. He was left panting by the end. He swallowed as the older Jayce handed him the condom and he hooked a thumb into his waistband before pulling it down. No matter how many times he'd seen it on either of them, Viktor was still very much shocked at the size of it. It must've shown on his face because the older Jayce gave a small chuckle as the younger one flustered. "Y-You've seen this before." The younger Jayce awkwardly tried to remind Viktor. 

"I-I know." Viktor managed quietly, watching the younger Jayce carefully open the condom. He slid it onto himself and wrinkled his nose a little with a cold shiver. Viktor hesitated before opening his good leg a little more. He had his bad one cushioned against a pillow. The younger Jayce moved between his legs and Viktor was left sandwiched between the two of them. For a brief moment, it excited him before his eyes widened and his body went stiff. He felt trapped. He felt trapped. He began to shake. Instantly, the older Jayce pushed the younger one back, the younger Jayce quickly moving back and holding up his hands. "Too... Too..." Viktor sputtered for a moment, his legs slamming shut and he pulled his good knee against himself. 

The older Jayce quickly let him go, though he set up the pillows behind Viktor as fast as he could. He moved away to sit on the edge of the other bed so Viktor would be able to see him. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and pressed his palms to his forehead, taking a few deep breaths. "...I'm sorry." He managed aloud in a strangled voice. "I-I'm sorry. I can do it, I just felt trapped..." The younger Jayce's eyes widened and he awkwardly stretched his hand out, offering it to him. "I-It was too close and too hot. I do not... I don't know." He reached out, taking the younger Jayce's hand and giving it a weak squeeze. "C-Could I have a moment, Jayce? I-I'm sorry." 

"No, no, it's alright. I-I don't want this to be a bad experience. I want this to be good for you." The younger Jayce awkwardly tucked his arm between his own legs to hide himself. Viktor felt bad until the older Jayce gave a small chuckle. He got up from the other bed and moved over, sliding onto the mattress next to his younger self. He reached out and Viktor wasn't sure he'd ever seen that shade of red on someone's face before, the younger Jayce's eyes instantly flicking between the two of them. "I-In front of him?? Now??" He sputtered. The older Jayce was rubbing his fingers along the younger one's cleanshaven jaw. Viktor's eyes went wide as the older one leaned in, easily taking over the messy kiss between himself and his younger counterpart. The younger Jayce seemed to melt. "Mmh..." 

Viktor was speechless, his thighs pressed tightly together as he squeezed around nothing. His heart was pounding and his face was burning. But more than anything... he was happy. He was so, so happy that both of his partners were getting along like this. It thrilled him, even. When the older Jayce pulled away from his other self, the younger man had to bury his forehead against his shoulder in order to catch his breath, a gleaming string having connected their lips for a moment before breaking. The older Jayce had slightly pink cheeks, but a smile pulled at his lips as he noticed Viktor staring. "...We decided it would be better if we weren't just sharing you. It... seems we both need some self-love, y'know?" The older Jayce gave a grin. "And it seems like you like the idea as well, hm?" His tone became teasing and Viktor felt his face go hot. 

The younger Jayce seemed just as embarrassed, peeking out at Viktor before suddenly letting out a filthy gasp as the older Jayce's hand slipped between his legs, squeezing his balls and causing his length to visibly throb. "H-Hah! Fuck... fuck..." 

"That's good. Just focus." The older Jayce's voice was breathless and Viktor found himself squeezing his legs a little tighter together with wide eyes as he took in the scene in front of him. Those calloused fingers slid up the younger man's length and had him unconsciously pushing his hips up. "We only have one condom." The older Jayce murmured. He glanced over at Viktor with softer eyes. "Are you alright?" Viktor swallowed and gave a small nod. The older Jayce pulled his hand back from the younger one, who was panting. "Hey. He's ready for you. Don't keep him waiting." Viktor felt his entrance squeeze again as the older Jayce playfully bit his younger self's ear in a scolding manner, making him jump.

"Mmh... O-Okay." The younger Jayce turned and moved over to Viktor. He hesitated and Viktor trembled before slowly opening his legs. He took Viktor's hips, his hands engulfing both of them. When he slotted Viktor against him, the younger Jayce exhaled shakily as he stared down at his length, nestled against Viktor's folds. "...Fuck." He sounded in awe for a moment before swallowing. "Th-This is okay? You're okay?" The younger Jayce asked anxiously, glancing up at Viktor. Viktor appreciated his worry, but he reached up and grabbed the younger Jayce's shirt collar, yanking him down. 

"Jayce." His voice was a shaky and serious whisper. "Give it to me." The younger Jayce swore softly. He pulled back just enough to line himself up. The first thrust was shallow, just enough to get the head in. Already, the younger Jayce's face had darkened two more shades of pink. He seemed to try and control himself, rolling his hips and giving another thrust. It took a few shallow thrusts until he was fully slotted inside of Viktor and he swore he could feel him in his stomach. Viktor felt full. "Hah!! J-Jayce... Jayce, I-I feel you..." He had tears pricking his eyes. "Oh gods... hah..." He swallowed and stared up at him. The younger Jayce had his eyes squeezed shut and his jaws parted. 

"Oh fuck." The larger man managed in a small voice. Viktor reached up and tugged the younger Jayce down into a kiss. He didn't use his tongue, keeping it gentle so the younger Jayce would relax instead of becoming overwhelmed. "Mm..." The noise was almost a whimper. "C-Can I move? Please?" His tone was nothing short of downright begging. Viktor nodded and groaned as he felt the first few experimental thrusts. Viktor reached out and took the larger man's hand, pulling it to rest on his stomach. He watched as the younger Jayce's eyes blew wide upon the realization that he would be able to feel himself inside of Viktor's belly. "Oh gods." 

The younger Jayce continued to thrust, finally picking up a rhythm as he pressed his thumbs down into Viktor's belly to feel that shape. The pressure was intense and it left Viktor gasping. "HAH!! J-Jayce! Jayce..." Viktor groaned his name and the younger Jayce only regarded him with a teary-eyed awe, like he couldn't believe his luck. 

"I love you! I love you, Viktor, I love you so much!!" He blurted out, his thrusts suddenly becoming much more powerful. Viktor sputtered, his fingers gripped into the blankets next to him so unbearably tight. He was teary-eyed himself, his hips rolling around Jayce's massive intrusion. "Fuck! Fuck, I c-can't... believe you're letting me... Hah!! Mm..." His hips began to stutter and Viktor couldn't help but give a teary-eyed smile. They both did the same thing when they were about to release. He reached up with a shaking breath and Jayce seemed to understand, quickly leaning down. Viktor pressed their lips together, his arms sliding up around his neck as Jayce's thrusts got sloppier and sloppier. 

When Jayce came, it was so sudden that it startled an orgasm right out of Viktor in turn, his filthy noise erupting against Jayce's lips. They were both left panting against each other for a moment, their warm breath mingling. "...I love you." Viktor whispered softly, watching the younger Jayce's brain completely short-circuit behind his eyes. The younger Jayce hesitated and opened his mouth before quickly closing it again. "Wh-What is it?" 

"I... I want to stay inside you for a little. Is that okay...?" The younger Jayce asked anxiously. "I... I like being so close to you. I can feel you. Good gods, I can feel you." He whispered shakily. Viktor felt his face flush in embarrassment as he gave a small nod. The younger Jayce wrapped him up in a hug and Viktor didn't feel trapped. He felt protected. He felt warm. He still felt so very full. "Do you, uh, need help?" Viktor paused, unsure of the younger Jayce's words before he realized he was looking behind himself. The older Jayce was heard chuckling breathlessly. 

"If you don't mind lending me a hand while you're sunk inside of him, sure." He replied breathlessly. Viktor went bright red, though he did kind of... wish he could see. 

Chapter Text

The space felt so much lighter than before. There was a new, soft feeling in the air alongside the usual calmness. Viktor's body was moonlight from the shoulders down again, him sitting at the edge of his starry pond. His hair continued to glow. He traced his foot over the surface of the water, watching as swirls of pastel interrupted the night sky inside. It was calm. It was peaceful. And everything felt soft. 

Something came stumbling into his space. 

Viktor instantly froze up. The footsteps that echoed through his space did not match up to the younger Jayce's clumsy entrances. This felt much quicker and more wounded. Someone was hurt. Someone was here and they were hurt. Viktor quickly got to his feet and, when he turned, the last person he expected to see was 

"Allira?"

Viktor called out to him in shock, Salo leaned against a tree. He had blood running down his head, his hand pressed to it. He looked like he was dressed in more casual clothes. He was lacking a fancy coat that he would usually wear, left in a collared shirt, fancy corset and laced-up pants. Viktor hurried over to him, one of Salo's eyes widening as he watched him move. "Oh! V-Viktor, your leg?" Viktor shushed him instantly, reaching up and moving his hand to check on his wound. Salo gave a weak laugh. "Is this your... so-called 'space' that I hear so much about?" Salo had been struck with a blunt object, a bruised gash having opened on the side of his head. The blood looked sickeningly dark compared to his glowing white hair. Viktor was sure that if Salo hadn't been here, he wouldn't be coherent at all. Viktor's hands shook as he gave a small nod and pulled them away. "Oh, goodness, it's bad, isn't it?" Salo gave another quiet chuckle as he leaned against the tree. He lifted a leg ever so slightly to show off his gold-adorned boots. "Terrible time for heels." 

Viktor couldn't help the weak laugh that escaped him, though it was a little strangled. During the last Frost Gala, Viktor had only managed to have a good time because Salo hadn't left his or Jayce's side. He'd been loud, crude, and obnoxious, but his wine glass had only been filled with juice the whole night. He hadn't understood a thing that Jayce had tried to tell him about their projects, but, when the topic turned to fabrics and clothes, Salo had engaged the younger man in conversation and kept up effortlessly. Salo was a politician and an elite, yes, but more than anything, he was a socialite. A damn good one, at that. Viktor paused as Salo turned to him. "You can walk here, Viktor. Look at you!" He sounded proud and it made his heart sink. He reached out his hands and Salo blinked in surprise. "Ah, I might very much fall over if I lean in any other direction. I thought this would be similar to when I'm extremely tipsy, but it most certainly isn't." 

Viktor's shoulders sank. He blinked as there was a soft chill in the air. A small footstep. Salo jumped as Viktor's child self appeared, looking up at Salo with wide eyes. They scanned him over with a furrowed, suspicious look, glancing over at Viktor. "This is Allira Salo. He is my friend." Viktor insisted gently. Viktor's child self paused and looked back up at Salo, who could only stare down at this young person made of starlight. "Salo, this is the Arcane." At that, Salo turned so his back was pressed against the tree. He gave them a small, shaking bow. 

"Goodness, this is such an honor." He stated, awe resting inside his pained voice. "I apologize I cannot be more presentable than this." Viktor's child self hesitated before reaching out, their ghostly fingers brushing along the wound. They pulled back dark fingertips, their shoulders sunken. They wiggled their fingers, dispersing the darkness before turning. A narrow, glowing pathway suddenly lit up to the pond, with high railings for Salo to hold onto. "Oh! Oh, yes, that is quite helpful. Thank you." He added to Viktor's child self. He took Viktor's offered hand and shakily gripped the railing with the other. It took a minute before Viktor could safely sit Salo next to the pond. The pathway and railing disappeared, a small grunt heard as Viktor's child self settled next to them. "Viktor, I know it seems repetitive, but... good gods, Viktor, you're walking. You’re walking and you’re..." Salo's grin was huge. 

Viktor managed a weak smile back. "And you are bleeding, Salo, lean down." He instructed. Salo leaned forward and Viktor soaked up the starry water into a rag he'd summoned. He started to clean the wound and Salo was heard biting back a noise of pain. "Who did this to you??" 

"Ah, I have a... worker occupying my bed at the moment. I feel she may have agreed to be there for a second reason." Salo sighed, glancing at the child next to them awkwardly before looking back at Viktor. "Allira Salo's downfall is by a pretty face, who would have guessed?" 

"Allira." Viktor's voice was a little scolding. "Is she there to kill you?" His chest was wracked with worry. 

"I believe I am being taken somewhere. If it involves you in any regard, they will very much have to kill me. My lips are sealed, Viktor." Salo stated matter-of-factly. "They are criminals, yes, but I'm spoiled stubborn and I'll show them how much worse that can be." Viktor's child self stared up at him with wide eyes. Viktor's shoulders sank. 

"Salo has always been a dedicated friend, even if I have not returned his sentiments until recently." Viktor told the Arcane quietly. Salo snorted gently. 

"I knew he'd come around. Look at me, of course he would." He stated jokingly, pressing his fingers to his chest proudly. Viktor fought the urge to roll his eyes. 

Something crashed into his space.

"...What in the gods' names was that??" Salo asked in shock, turning to look back at the wildly swaying bushes. Viktor smiled. 

"Who do you think it is?" He asked in a weak, playful voice. Inside, his chest was shrunken. He did not fear for his safety. Salo would not say a damn word, no matter what they did to him. If it was anyone else, he'd spill their secrets like a water fountain, but he refused to do that when it was someone he cared for. He'd take any information about them to the grave and Viktor was afraid that was exactly what he was about to do. Salo gave a weak, knowing grin. 

"Don't tell me he always comes crashing down like that??" He asked in amazement. He glanced at Viktor's child self, who rolled their eyes with a smile. The younger Jayce soon broke from the trees, a smile on his face before it slowly faded as he saw Salo. 

"C-Councilor Salo, how- What happened?!" His voice instantly raised in shock as he seemed to take note of the still-bleeding wound. He came over as quickly as he could, dropping next to Viktor. "Oh gods, are you-" 

"Do not touch me, Talis. You know better." Salo stated firmly, grabbing his finger and lowering it scoldingly. Jayce jumped and quickly balled his hands back up in his lap. "I believe I am being kidnapped, but as I just told Viktor, if it is anything to do with him and not my..." He rolled his eyes as he made a vague hand gesture. "...expensive wine imports, then I am likely taking everything I know to the grave very soon." Jayce's eyes widened. "Mel and I did wish to congratulate you, since the Professor said you successfully entered the opposite world." Salo paused, gesturing between them. "It was successful, yes? You are safely there?" Jayce nodded at his question, though he still looked a little distressed at Salo's state. Viktor's child self was still watching the treeline and Salo paused. "...Are you all expecting someone else?" 

"Ah... Yes. I told you before of the man that made me reconsider my Frost." Viktor said quietly. Salo blinked before giving a heavy sigh. 

"It would have been nice if I could meet these new, important people in a much cleaner state, Viktor!" He exclaimed, crossing his arms. "You know how I feel about first impressions! This is almost insulting!" Viktor scoffed at him before glancing aside. Salo seemed to take note of that and raised a brow. "...Viktor." His tone was softer, but still prompting. 

"...That man is also Jayce Talis." Viktor finally admitted. Salo stared at him before glancing at Jayce. Jayce managed an awkward smile and nodded. Salo was speechless for a moment before speaking to Jayce.

"You are a far stronger man than I gave you credit for if you are sharing your lover with the version of yourself that made him reconsider Frosting." He stated bluntly. Viktor instantly smacked his leg and Salo jumped. "I mean it politely! You have so much more respect from me, Talis." He added to Jayce, who looked flustered. 

"I was... I was jealous at first. And I do think it took Viktor a little longer to realize that maybe I was what he wanted too. I think often about how I needed to thank my other self for opening Viktor's eyes to me." He said quietly. Viktor paused as he stared at him, his shoulders sinking. "Your respect is appreciated, Councilor, but all in all, my other self is... just a good man." Jayce admitted, seeming flustered. Salo blinked in surprise at that. Viktor's eyes widened as Salo's left eye twitched and started to slip shut. "Oh, uh, Salo?!" Jayce spoke in alarm, reaching out to him. 

"Ah, ah, ah!" Salo smacked his hand in gentle warning, making Jayce yelp. "No. Touching." He sighed as he pulled his hand back to stretch it up to his half-closed eye. "I doubt that means anything good." 

Something entered his space. 

Salo paused as he heard approaching footsteps, glancing over with a raised brow before turning back to Jayce. "Why is it only you come crashing out of the sky?" Jayce instantly went red and gave a small shrug. Viktor's child self got up, scampering over as quick as they could with their limp. They met the older Jayce as he appeared in the treeline and Salo blinked in surprise, his mouth slightly dropping open. "Oh, Talis, that is a good look for you." He added to the younger Jayce, who flustered a little. The older Jayce smiled at Viktor's child self before raising his eyes. The smile dropped and he only stared for a moment. 

"What the hell is he doing here??" He finally spoke in disbelief and Salo raised a brow. "I haven't seen this guy in years." Viktor paused, getting up and moving over to the older Jayce. 

"He is of the other world. He is my friend. The one who kept me safe during the second Frost Gala." Viktor reminded him, his brow furrowed. The older Jayce gave a scoff of disbelief and buried his face in his hands. "You know him??" 

"He was my Public Defender. The state-assigned lawyer during my public intoxication case." The older Jayce stated unhappily. "This is the friend you tell me about??" Viktor paused before nodding and the older Jayce pinched the bridge of his nose. "What the fuck." Salo blinked in surprise, furrowing his brow.

"I am often acquiring books about your world. I read that lawyers are the ones to defend you in trial." Salo seemed more than taken back by that and the older Jayce gave a nod, paired with his frustrated sigh. "I'm sorry, but you couldn't have possibly won your trial with me as your lawyer." The older Jayce instantly gave him the flattest, most unamused look. 

"I didn't. I was put under house arrest and then you got convicted for tax fraud." He stated firmly. Salo blinked before rolling his eye and nodding.

"Well, yes, that sounds about right." 

Chapter Text

"-and she says, to me, of all people, that she likes velvet more than silk!" Salo exclaimed, reciting his encounter to the Arcane, like he'd been the lone survivor of a tragedy. "Ugh!" Viktor's child self had only been giggles for the past several minutes as Salo went on his rant about his latest party experience. It had likely been hours in the waking world. Viktor allowed himself to smile, but his heart had also dropped to his stomach. Salo's left eye had fully shut and the blood had stopped from the side of his head. "And then, little light, this woman-" He paused and held a hand to his head, squeezing his other eye shut. "...Goodness, they are taking a while to bring me wherever it is we're going. How long does it usually take to get to Zaun?" He glanced up at Viktor. 

Viktor hadn't even really processed the time. He took a moment before abruptly sitting up from where he was lying against the older Jayce. "In the depths, at this point." He pushed himself up and moved over to sit next to him. "Are there any new sensations? Focus." Viktor watched him worriedly and Salo seemed to become serious. He hesitated before holding up his hands. Viktor paused as he saw how his wrists bent. "There is weight." 

"I must be chained. Rope isn't this heavy." Salo said, glancing up in slight amusement as the younger Jayce choked on his breath at the statement and broke into a coughing fit. Viktor fought the urge to roll his eyes. "Over the past few minutes, I have been collecting aches along my body. I believe..." Salo had to awkwardly kneel down to unbutton his shirt collar. He pulled it to the side. "Bruising?" 

"Bruising." Viktor confirmed, feeling a little sick at just how dark it was. His child self shuffled around and Salo paused, pulling his shirt shut again. 

"No, no, little light. I wouldn't wish to worry you." He spoke to the Arcane softly and they stared back at him, seeming to become dismayed. "You have been such a good listener, unlike... some others." He turned his head away snobbishly from the older Jayce, who'd managed to doze off even in a dreamscape. Salo had to lean down to button his shirt back up. "Well, if what I believe is happening is indeed happening..." He shifted around before lifting his feet. Instantly, his ankles dipped like something was dragging on them. Salo paused as he stared at them. "Ah. That is less than ideal." He lowered himself into a sitting position again before raising his hand. It seemed like he was trying to lift it as high as he could, but it abruptly stopped right at his shoulder. "Ah, it's Hoskel then. I was worried about that." 

"Allira?" Viktor spoke worriedly and Salo sighed, glancing over at him. 

"Councilor Hoskel was put on leave due to his threatening advance towards you, if you would recall. He was furious with me for 'making this bigger than it needed to be', and..." Salo did air quotations around the statement before following it with more. "Let's see 'blowing everything out of proportion' but gods, isn't that what I'm good at?" Salo said, rolling his eyes with a smile. "But, regardless, I suppose he did make some mildly pointed statements towards me. I have a sneaking suspicion that he is waiting for me to wake up before he does..." Salo gestured vaguely, scoffing. "...his villainous little spiel about 'how I've had this coming' and 'how I always act so prudish' and, ugh, if it's not all things I've heard before. Spare me, please." Salo groaned dramatically. He focused on Viktor again. "I think we may have to say goodbye, Viktor." 

"No." Viktor spoke instantly, his eyes wide. "N-No, Allira, you don't-" 

"If I read his rather unsubtle implications clear enough, and I know I have, I am currently chained to a very heavy stone of some sort. I will be thrown into the polluted river of Zaun." Salo stated calmly. Viktor's heart sank. He glanced back at the younger Jayce, whose eyes were wide in shock. Next to Salo, Viktor's child self seemed to inhale shakily. Salo paused and glanced over. "Oh, little light, I'm sorry. I know it was such a grand experience to speak with me." He stated, as haughty as it was gentle. Viktor's child self stared back at him with completely sunken shoulders. Salo gave a small sigh before looking back at Viktor. He glanced up, the younger Jayce quickly settling next to him. 

"M-My Rune. Can't my Rune do anything??" He asked quickly, showing off the glowing crystal on his wrist. "It's the Cleaving Rune." The Arcane stared at it quietly. "Can you help Viktor use it for anything?" Jayce asked Viktor's child self in a weak tone. Viktor's child self looked uncertain for a moment. Salo raised a brow. 

"There doesn't have to be any strain. You know it was Hoskel, so you can tell them when you return. I promise you that the justice will be swift and the punishment harsh, considering I am a Piltover socialite and a Councilor. He was..." Salo tipped his head to the side, taking in a sharp breath through his teeth. "...never good at either of those things." 

"Allira, I do not want your death avenged. I want it prevented." Viktor said shakily, his eyes wide. Salo paused and his eyes weakened on him. "I am an Intersect. You are in my space. Can't I help you??" He turned to his child self. "Can't I help him??" His child self looked back at him before holding their hands out to the younger Jayce. He paused before quickly taking the bracelet off and laying it in their palms. Viktor's child self looked up at him and Viktor scoot forward, settling in front of them. "What do you need me to do? The energy does not have to be spent from just you." He gently held his child self's cheeks and they glanced up before nodding.  

Salo hesitated as Viktor stretched out his hand. "Viktor, I knew I had something like this coming to me, really." He said, his brow furrowed. "If this is going to hurt either of you, I would rather it not." 

"And I would rather have a friend. You are smart, Salo. You know your privileges and you use them to your advantage. You've used them to my advantage." Viktor said quietly. "A well-known Piltover elite and socialite is not someone I ever thought I would have on my side." His voice weakened. "Nor is it someone I think I will ever have again. Mel is kind and she is an elite, yes. But she does not carry the social confidence that you do. Dare I say, overconfidence." Salo gave a quiet chuckle. 

"What you're saying is that you still need a spoiled-rich narcissist on your side." He teased, giving a grin. Viktor paused and gave a weak scoff. "I personally think it would be valuable, but I also might be biased." Salo glanced down at the Arcane. "Wouldn't you agree, little light?" Viktor's child self smiled at him. "Good. Now I am begging you not to hurt yourselves doing this and Allira Salo is never one to beg in front of more than two people like this." They heard the younger Jayce choke again. The Arcane seemed to focus and press their thumbs to the Rune, glancing up at Viktor.

The Rune had ignited almost instantly under their touch and Viktor hesitated before holding his hand over it. He reached out and took Salo's hand. His eyes squeezed shut and he saw it. The wooden boards of the dock. The dim light of a lantern. That Councilor's annoyed face as he paced back and forth. The boots of Enforcers. The stone. It was a massive rock, sitting right at the edge of the pier. Salo's pale, bloody hands were chained as they laid limp in front of him. Viktor inhaled shakily and focused.

Tink!

A clean slice through the first chain. It fell limp from his wrist. The boots around them started to move.

Tink!

Tink!

Tink!

The chains all broke from Salo's body and Viktor flinched, feeling burning rip through his hands and arms as a dark slice opened up in the dock below Salo's body. He was suddenly dropped right into the police station in Piltover, landing on the carpet. The gash in reality remained, Councilor Hoskel seen staring down from it in shock right before it suddenly started to stitch itself up. The Enforcers in the station began to move, calling out for medical attention. 

Arms wrapped around Viktor and yanked him backwards. "Viktor!!" The older Jayce was wide-eyed in shock as he held him. Viktor inhaled shakily as he opened his eyes back up in his space. His nose was bleeding. His child self's nose was bleeding too. They both had an identical gash up their left forearm, though it seemed stitched up by glowing light. Both of them were breathing heavily. "Viktor?? Are you okay??" The older Jayce turned him around, his eyes wide as he held his arm. Viktor swallowed shakily as he nodded. 

"Little light?" Salo seemed to be checking on Viktor's child self with the younger Jayce. They handed the bracelet back to him with shaking hands and he put it back on. "Oh... I think I am being woken. Thank you." He rested his fingers to the cheek of Viktor's child self, who weakly smiled. "I'll finish my story to you some other time. I can't not tell you how I dealt with someone who prefers velvet. It's disgusting." He stated matter-of-factly. It drew out a giggle from the Arcane. "Viktor." He held out his hand and Viktor quickly took it, his eyes wide. "Thank you, Viktor. Piltover is graced with my presence a little longer... Don't make that face." His tone became sharp and the younger Jayce jumped behind him, having been about to roll his eyes. 

"Wh- How did you know-" 

"Goodbye for now. I'll see you and Talis when you return." Salo said, smiling. "It was nice to meet you, little light. And I certainly did... meet you, Jayce." He added, the older one heard scoffing. 

Salo was pulled from his space. 

Viktor inhaled shakily. "Viktor?? Hey." The older Jayce quickly cupped his cheeks. "Hey, it's okay." 

"They were going to drown him in a polluted river because of me. Th-The water runs dark in Zaun, Jayce. They were going to throw him into th-the water, anchored d-down by stone. Because of me." Viktor whispered frantically, tears finally escaping him. The older Jayce's shoulders sank and he pulled Viktor into a hug. He hiccuped softly. He felt smaller hands settle against his back, followed by a small weight. The Arcane leaned against him, weakly wiping their bloody nose. The younger Jayce appeared in front of him, reaching out and holding Viktor's hand once he had permission.

Despite being so held, he'd never felt colder.

Chapter Text

The bed was wet when Viktor woke in it and he could only stare at the red patch beneath his arm. It took a second of processing before he quickly sat up, his eyes wide. He lifted his bloody arm and drew his thumb over the massive scar. He inhaled shakily. It didn't hurt, but good gods, this was a mess. He glanced over before pausing. For a moment, his panic was battled by warmth. The younger Jayce was curled into his older self's side as he slept, the older one having an arm around him and his cheek resting against his head. Viktor's eyes softened. If there was at least one good thing, it was that his partners were making a genuine effort to be as close to each other as they were to him. And it was working. 

The older Jayce's fingers were lightly slipped into the back of the younger one's hair. Viktor managed a weak smile. He didn't want to wake them yet, knowing how badly they were already going to react to the bed being like this. Viktor leaned over the edge of the bed and grabbed his cane. He staggered a little, his hips most definitely sore. He slipped out of the bed and limped over to the bathroom. He kept the door open so they could see where he'd gone and that he was okay. Viktor started to clean his arm off, leaned on the sink counter. He saw both of the Jayces shift before the older one woke first. He glanced over and his eyes went wide in shock. They scanned over the room and Viktor quickly got his attention with a little wave of his hand. 

Viktor showed off the visible scar and the older Jayce seemed absolutely dismayed. Viktor dried his arm off before taking his cane and limping over to stand on their side of the bed, the older Jayce instantly reaching out. "It affected you in reality." He said in weak disbelief, keeping his voice hushed. Viktor nodded.

"On the bright side, the nosebleed did not follow." Viktor said quietly. "But how are we going to explain such a thing to the hotel staff?" He gestured to the blood-soaked side of the bed before burying his forehead in his hand. "I... I just keep causing trouble, Jayce. Good gods, one of my friends was just almost thrown into the most polluted river to drown because of me. We always joked it would obviously be because of something he did. But... it wasn't." Viktor inhaled shakily. "It was me."

The older Jayce stared at him in quiet dismay. He reached out his hand and Viktor gave a small sigh as he stretched out his arm. The older Jayce ran his fingers over the massive scar. "It doesn't hurt, does it?" He asked, his brow furrowed. Viktor shook his head. 

"It was healed when I woke." Viktor said softly. He glanced up at him before his eyes drifted to the younger Jayce and he gave a smile. "I wasn't aware you two were already so close." He commented, glancing back at the older Jayce. He gave a flustered chuckle, his face tinting red. 

"Self-love is important." The older Jayce replied, though his voice was barely a mumble. "And neither of us would ever want to stress you out by not getting along. It's more comfortable when we're all loving with one another instead of just you, right?" The older Jayce gently pulled Viktor forward, cupping his cheek with one hand. "Triangle instead of just an angle." 

"How romantic." Viktor commented flatly, a smile pulling at his lips as he raised a brow. The older Jayce laughed before guiding Viktor forward, pressing a kiss to his forehead. Viktor paused and glanced aside. "A proper one, please?" He requested. He did always get a little embarrassed with how proud this Jayce always seemed with him when he asked for physical affection aloud. He was always guaranteed to give it to him too. He pressed their lips together and Viktor slipped his eyes shut, pressing back against him. "...I learned something for you." He murmured against his lips after a moment. 

"Oh?" The older Jayce's tone was teasing, but the eyes betrayed genuine curiosity. 

Viktor smiled before touching their noses together. "Whose woods these are, I think I know. His house is in the village though." Instantly, he saw the older Jayce's eyes brighten and a smile spread across his face. Viktor could feel that tingling along his skin as he continued to recite it. "Between the woods and frozen lake. The darkest evening of the year." Viktor leaned forward, resting his cheek against the older Jayce's shoulder and tracing his fingers along his bearded jaw. "The only other sound's the sweep of easy wind and downy flake." Viktor almost flustered at how proud the older Jayce looked as he watched him. A smile pulled at Viktor's lips and he leaned up again. He stopped teasingly close to Jayce's lips, brushing them. "The woods are lovely, dark, and deep. But I have promises to keep. And miles to go before I sleep." He pressed their lips together and Jayce kissed him back before mouthing the words with him.

"And miles to go before I sleep." 

Jayce let out a soft exhale against Viktor's lips, opening his bronzed gold eyes to look at him. Viktor was tingling all over and he saw that soft, glowing flutter as a moth hopped along the desk chair before disappearing into glittering specks. "...You're so incredible, Viktor." Jayce whispered softly. Viktor felt his chest warm.

All of a sudden, there was a knock at the door. Loud, heavy. It seemed to startle the younger Jayce awake. "Get up! Get up, bathroom, go!" The older Jayce whispered firmly. The older one quickly helped him move out of the bed and the younger one stumbled towards the bathroom door. Instead of shutting it, he slipped inside, climbing into the tub and carefully sliding the curtain all the way shut as the older Jayce approached the door. He leaned down and looked through the peephole before the warmth and joy seemed to leave him. "Fuck." He muttered. 

Viktor threw the blankets over the bloodstained bed, at least hiding it for now. Jayce finally opened the door and Viktor was shocked silent for a moment. Caitlyn was his age. She was so much older and she looked so serious compared to that messy, rambunctious girl that he knew. "Jayce." Caitlyn greeted him stiffly and Jayce glanced aside.

"Cait." 

"Officer Kiramman, thank you." Caitlyn's voice became cold and stern. Jayce seemed to have to take everything in him not to flinch. 

"Right." He mumbled. He glanced outside the door. "No deputy?" 

"She couldn't make it. Something about her arm. It's just me today." Caitlyn answered curtly, moving past him. She stood so stiffly and it genuinely dismayed Viktor how cold she was towards Jayce, who looked defeated as he shut the door behind her. Caitlyn's gaze softened on him. "You must be Viktor." 

"Yes, officer." Viktor said softly. He glanced up, his hands tight on his cane. Jayce seemed to understand instantly, moving over to stand beside him. Viktor reached out and held his hand. Jayce gave it a squeeze and Caitlyn looked between them with a furrowed brow. 

"...I owe your mother $20." She finally muttered. Jayce paused and glanced over at her. 

"Wha-" 

"Viktor, I have some questions for you, if you don't mind." Caitlyn interrupted. Viktor hesitated before nodding again. This was Caitlyn. This cold, authoritative woman was little Miss Caitlyn, who tumbled and laughed wherever she went. Who lived Jayce to bits. But not here. It made him so unbelievably upset, but he kept it down. 

"...Of course, Officer." Viktor said quietly. 

"You are living with... Jayce Talis currently?" Caitlyn glanced at the older man with an unamused look. Viktor nodded. "And you've been safe with him up until this incident? No drunken outbursts or instances of violence?" Every word sounded so pointed and jagged at Jayce that Viktor pressed to his side. 

"No. Jayce has been nothing but comforting and considerate of me." Viktor said, frowning a little. 

"Hm." Caitlyn's only response was an acknowledging him that bordered on the edge of scoffing. Viktor finally spoke again, his tone much sharper. 

"Officer, I believe we are here to discuss my abduction, not poke at whatever wounds there seem to be." His voice shook as he spoke again. "Please." He heard Jayce let out the softest thank you. Caitlyn sighed. 

"Right, my apologies. Let us discuss then." 

Chapter Text

With how tense the room was, it was clear Viktor was having a beyond difficult time answering Caitlyn's questions. Viktor startled as Jayce finally got up, making Caitlyn instantly move back. Jayce gave her a defeated look before turning to Viktor and smiling as he knelt down. "Hey." The word at least made Viktor's lips quirk up and his voice was warm as he responded.

"Hello." 

"I'm going to stay in the bathroom, alright? You're stumbling over your words." Jayce pointed out gently. Viktor's shoulders sank, but he nodded. He lit up a little as he felt Jayce's lips against his and he pressed back with a small bit of warmth in his chest. Jayce gave him a grin before getting up and turning away, moving to the bathroom and disappearing inside as he shut the door. Caitlyn had her arms crossed as she watched before turning back to Viktor with a heavy sigh through her nose. 

"I... apologize for my off behavior. We have not been on good terms for years now. I was hoping he would be elsewhere for the questioning." Every word sounded like it was being dragged from her throat like barbed wire. Before Viktor could comment on it, Caitlyn quickly moved past it. "You mentioned you were being taken to see Silco. The police have been trying to track him down even before I joined the department. Do you know why he would try to have you brought to him?"

Yes. "No, ma'am."

Caitlyn looked him over, but Viktor only maintained his neutral face. "You both are from the encampment. Do you believe that may have anything to do with it?" Viktor furrowed his brow. 

"I do not mean to be vain, Officer. But I am favored in the community. Over an incident I am sure you are more than aware of." Viktor's voice was painfully soft and Caitlyn glanced to the side, her jaw clenching. "An incident that the encampment had to handle themselves... because the police would not believe my words against his." Viktor's voice strangled as he looked her over. "...And you still don't." 

"An innocent man might've been killed. We had no evidence-" 

"They refused to collect evidence. He was such a good man, was he not?" Viktor's voice was strained. "Of course, how could he do such a horrible thing?" Caitlyn's eyes narrowed and she firmly held up her hand. 

"That is not what we are here to discuss, sir." She said, her tone harsh. Viktor's hands curled into the bed beneath him. 

"Of course. It is clearly never to be discussed." Viktor replied quietly. Caitlyn instantly shot him a dangerous look and Viktor glanced aside. "What are your other questions? I would like this to be over as quickly as possible." He lowered his gaze and turned his head away. "If you are just here to make me and my partner feel terrible, then you can just leave." 

"Don't speak on things you don't understand." Caitlyn said firmly. She glanced towards the bathroom. "My issues with him have nothing to do with you." Viktor nodded quietly and sat up a little. 

"I will no longer be answering questions, Officer. Please leave." He stated calmly. Caitlyn stared at him before letting out a scoff. When she didn't move, Viktor raised a brow. "...Are you going to arrest me?" He asked softly. "I cannot imagine a worse way to strain your relationship further." 

"I can. An electric tea kettle to the back and second-degree burns, thrown from someone you trusted most." Caitlyn stated, her voice just short of a spat. "If you do not answer to me, then I will have to send my Deputy to finish questioning you and she is not someone you want doing that." 

"You are not someone I want doing that." Viktor replied, his voice strangled. "I want you to leave." His voice raised a little. "Leave! Go!" Instantly, the bathroom door opened and Jayce's eyes were wide. Viktor was shaking, hugging his own arms quietly. Jayce glanced at Caitlyn uncertainly before moving to Viktor and kneeling down. 

"Shh. It's okay." Jayce whispered softly, reaching up and cupping his cheeks. Viktor placed a hand over one and buried his face into Jayce's palm. "I'm here. I have you." He promised gently. Caitlyn let out the softest scoff under her breath and Jayce closed his eyes before getting up and turning to her. He opened them again in a stern gaze.

"Thank you for your time, Officer Kiramman. Please leave." There was something beneath Jayce's tone and Caitlyn glared at him before turning away. She didn't utter another word to them, opening the door to the room and gently shutting it again behind her. Jayce let out a heavy sigh, seeming like he'd been holding his breath. He looked beyond upset for a moment and Viktor reached out, taking his hand. He pulled it back to his cheek and squeezed his eyes shut. Instantly, Jayce's thumb gently rubbed circles on his cheekbone. "...You know I wouldn't hurt you, right, Viktor?" Jayce's voice was a little strangled and Viktor blinked up at him in surprise. 

"I don't ever want to hurt anyone again. I won't ever let myself near another bottle and I won't ever hurt you." Jayce said quietly, his voice shaking but his words firm. "I need you to know that." Viktor rubbed his thumb over Jayce's knuckle in response. 

"You did not hurt me even when you did relapse a little. Even though I was the reason." Viktor recalled quietly. He glanced up at him. "You were hardly even angry at me. You were quite upset, yes, but you made no move to hurt me." Viktor watched him. "Even if I did not know you during your worst, I would say you've improved, no?" He questioned gently. Jayce watched him and his eyes softened as he stared at him gratefully. 

"Maybe a little." Jayce admitted softly. They both glanced over as the younger Jayce cleared his throat in the bathroom doorway. He looked shaken as he glanced over at the hotel door. 

"That was Cait?" He asked weakly. The older Jayce hesitated before nodding. "She's so much older here. She's only 15 back in our world. She wrestles like a little kid, but she speaks like an 80-year-old woman with her posh language. What was that uptight nonsense?" He tried to joke. It didn't seem to land at all, the older Jayce's shoulders sinking. The younger Jayce instantly bit back his words and ducked his head. "Sorry." 

"I think it... would've been worse if she was still 15 when I went through the worst years of my life." The older Jayce said quietly. The younger Jayce hesitated before coming over. He finally wrapped his arms around his older self before burying his face against his shoulder. The older one seemed surprised for a moment before a weak smile pulled at his lips and he tipped his head to rest it against the younger one's.

Viktor knew the moment the younger Jayce got back to their world, he would go and make sure Caitlyn was still that same silly, rambunctious kid raised under the guise of elite maturity and Viktor would go with him.  He felt like he needed to see her too after that. A version of herself where she didn't even believe what had happened to him. A version that thought he'd put an innocent man to death. His breathing caught in his throat and he squeezed his eyes shut. It was no wonder that Finn and his gang of Slickjaws had to be the one to lure him back so the tent city of Zaun could deal justice themselves. Before he knew it, his throat felt like it had closed up and his eyes were watering. 

Instantly, the older Jayce's hand squeezed his and Viktor glanced up through blurry eyes. "What did she say to you, Viktor?? I was making sure not to eavesdrop. Was it about me again?" The older Jayce sounded like he was expecting it. What he wasn't expecting was Viktor's momentary silence before his weak, whispery question followed. 

"How did she know that man, Jayce?" 

The older Jayce froze up and his eyes went wide. "...H-He was her kindergarten teacher. Viktor, don't tell me she...?" 

"I understand how he nearly got away with it now." Viktor's voice was strained. "He was such a good man, wasn't he?" It really did hurt. To know that the people in charge of protecting them didn't even believe him. 

Sweetheart...

Viktor finally let the tears spill over and his fingers dug into the bed. He refused to make any noise, but he allowed the tears to fall. He felt like both Jayces had already heard him cry enough. Maybe they were tired of it. Maybe they were tired of him. "Th-The sheets. W-We have t-to take care of the-" He didn't even get to finish before the younger Jayce was hugging him. He had a way of hiding Viktor in his hugs that Viktor had come to appreciate. 

"I still remember how you screamed when I tried to grab you from behind when we met. I think about it a lot because it still scares me. I remember how fast the Sheriff had to go and calm you down." The younger Jayce buried his face against his shoulder, Viktor hiding against his chest. "You sounded so raw and terrified. A liar wouldn't sound like that. I had never heard someone that scared before." He was shaking a little. 

"I didn't meet you for weeks, despite catching sight of you." The older Jayce spoke quietly. "All of the other volunteers said you refused to come out when they were there. That you were scared to death of them. The people in the Lanes said you never came to the front of Zaun anymore. You only hid away with your father and they hadn't seen you ever since that day. I am still shocked you allowed me to be so close to you when we finally met face-to-face." The older Jayce admitted, watching him quietly. "Someone as friendly with volunteers as they said you were doesn't just suddenly shut down and hide away from the world without reason." 

"A liar wouldn't react like you. Not so instinctively. Not so unconsciously." The younger Jayce said quietly. He pulled back and he cupped Viktor's cheeks, looking teary-eyed himself. "Wh-When we get back, we can invite Sprout over and we can all build a pillow castle." He offered, giving a weak smile. 

"Not just a fort?" The older Jayce joked softly, though he seemed more nostalgic and saddened. The younger one shook his head.

"She said she's above forts now. She wants to go bigger and better." The words made a weak laugh pull from Viktor. Of course she did. The little Kiramman was ambitious. The younger Jayce glanced back at Viktor, perking up at his laugh. The older Jayce watched him warmly too. Viktor felt such aching in his heart and he wiped his eyes. 

"...The sheets." He managed after another moment. "L-Let us see what we can do about them." 

Chapter Text

They had certainly gotten some strange looks from the hotel staff when they'd left, likely since Viktor was certain they thought he was 'entangled' with two brothers. When Viktor was helped into the passengers' seat of the Jeep, the younger Jayce climbed into the back. He was clearly nervous about the car as well and Viktor knew it was because the machine had to be directed by human hands instead of being automated. The older Jayce climbed into the drivers' seat and turned to look at the both of them. "How are you both doing? I know that seeing Cait like that seemed to really throw both of you off." The younger Jayce swallowed before nodding and furrowing his brow. 

"She... seems very serious. All her energy is gone... if she ever had it." He replied quietly. The older Jayce blinked in surprise before his eyes weakened. 

"I think our Caitlyns may be different. Mine has always been a little quieter. More introverted and wary. I wouldn't exactly have called her energetic at any point." He admitted. The older Jayce paused at the completely and utterly shocked expression on the younger Jayce's face. His shoulders finally sank and he cleared his throat, glancing away. Viktor hesitated before reaching out to the older Jayce worriedly. He seemed to notice and managed a weak smile. "I'm fine, I promise. It's just... difficult to see her again after what happened. Everything I did." His smile had quickly dropped away. The younger Jayce's face changed again and he glanced away. Viktor's shoulders were sunken. The older Jayce gave a weak laugh to Viktor. "Hey, at least I didn't hurt you." 

Viktor liked that even less and it must've shown on his face because the older Jayce stopped and his eyes fell again. "Sorry." He watched him before reaching out. "Hey." He softened his voice and Viktor glanced up, reaching out and taking his hand. 

"Hello." He responded softly. Neither of them could help the smiles that pulled at their lips as the younger Jayce's hand awkwardly settled on the back of the car seat. He wouldn't say anything, but it was clear he wanted to be included too. Viktor reached out with his free hand, though he made sure to hide it until his fingers were intertwining with the younger Jayce's, making him startle. Despite the shock, he lit up. Viktor gave his hand a squeeze as he looked him over with warm eyes. He did feel a little bad that the younger Jayce always seemed to feel left out. He just seemed to go so quiet around his older self. Viktor had a feeling he was intimidated and he glanced over at the older Jayce. He seemed to understand.

"Maybe we can stop at the diner?" The older Jayce suggested to Viktor. "I'm sure everyone will make the same assumption about, uh... y'know." He gestured between himself and the younger Jayce. He smiled as Viktor lit up and he chuckled. He turned to the younger Jayce, who seemed curious. "Are you hungry at all?" The younger Jayce hesitated and glanced to the side. Viktor gave his hand a squeeze and the younger Jayce did seem encouraged by that. 

"Y-Yeah. If we could stop somewhere to eat, that would be... that would be nice." He stumbled over his words and Viktor couldn't help the small laugh that left him as he gave his hand another squeeze. 

"Good job, Jayce, very human response."

"Thank you, I obviously try very hard." The younger's response to his tease was so quick that it momentarily startled Viktor, but he broke out in laughter, the older Jayce covering his mouth to hide his smile. The younger Jayce had buried his face against the back of the car seat, but Viktor could see the very edges of a grin accompanying his red ears.

It was a little awkward when everyone in the diner already knew the older Jayce and Viktor. The younger Jayce was left stuck in several simultaneous conversations with the regulars, asking how long Jayce had kept his 'adorable younger brother' away and remarking that they looked like twins. Viktor was a little glad that the younger Jayce was used to attending galas, so he was a little more prepared for this kind of swarming. Viktor was left off to the side with the older Jayce, a small smile on his lips. The younger Jayce kept shooting looks at them that were very obvious cries for help, but upon seeing Viktor's grin, he huffed at him. "You seem to be enjoying this a little too much." The older Jayce commented, nudging Viktor's arm. 

"Perhaps a little." Viktor replied, leaning on his cane with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. Jayce laughed and he leaned down, his hands in his pockets as he tipped his head. His face was inches from Viktor's with a challenging grin. 

"Feeling a little mean today, huh?" He teased gently. Viktor felt a warmth bloom in his chest and he leaned forward, stealing a kiss from Jayce. Jayce pressed back before humming as he looked him over. "...Maybe I'll allow it." 

"How generous." Viktor replied playfully. 

Jayce glanced over at his younger self before chuckling. "I'll go free him. Can you place our orders? Get him the same thing as me." He pressed a kiss to Viktor's forehead, making him fluster before he moved away towards the crowd. Viktor was smiling and he turned, moving towards the counter. The woman behind it was freckled with an upturned button nose. She wore a head wrap and smiled at him. Viktor had quickly built up a rapport with her since they'd both had an inkling about each other that proved to be true. However, she seemed so much more comfortable in her body than he was and it admittedly made him a little jealous. 

"Smiling like a lovestruck fool." She commented with a grin. Viktor glanced up with a small smile as he limped up. 

"I will not confirm or deny such claims, Miss Lest." Viktor replied. Another successful Zaunite from the tent city, helped out by Vander. She ran a small breakfast diner closer to the outskirts. Viktor's only slight qualm was the smell of tobacco that followed her. She was lovely otherwise. "May we have our usuals and a second serving of Jayce's usual?" He requested politely, Lest writing up the orders on a notepad before ripping off the paper. 

She glanced over towards the two Jayces and tipped her head before pointing with her pen. "Forgive my nosiness, but is the brother upper-class? He carries himself so stiffly and formally." Viktor blinked and glanced over. Sure enough, the younger Jayce stood as he always did, his hands tightly clasped behind his back and his posture straight. The older Jayce was much more relaxed-looking next to him.

"Ah, his school is quite demanding of etiquette. He is used to being scolded about posture and manners." Viktor explained, Lest making a small, amused noise. "I do apologize for the commotion." Lest smiled and waved dismissively. Viktor laughed softly. He turned and moved over to the booth he usually sat at with Jayce. He slipped into the seat and watched them in quiet amusement. It took a good few more minutes before the older Jayce was able to worm the younger one away from the crowd. He glanced up and Viktor's eyes moved to the younger one. The older Jayce understood and gently nudged his younger self to sit next to Viktor. The younger Jayce looked a little overwhelmed as he let out a breath. 

"I am surprised, Jayce. You are so used to parties with the Kirammans, are you not?" Viktor teased gently. He pressed his leg against the younger Jayce's and it seemed to relax him as he gave a weak scoff. 

"W-Well, I'm not really used to all the attention being on me unless Mrs. Kiramman is introducing me to some other high-end family." He defended himself. He glanced up to his older self with completely and utterly flushed cheeks. "And to be called your brother, of all things, after we, uh..." The younger Jayce buried his face in his hands and the older Jayce blinked in surprise before clearing his throat and glancing off to the side. 

"If... doing stuff like that makes you uncomfortable, we can stop." He offered in a hushed voice. The younger Jayce glanced up at him before shaking his head. "Are you sure?" Viktor felt his foot push gently between their legs. The younger Jayce jumped before nodding a little quicker than he probably meant. The older Jayce smiled before it faltered as he glanced aside. "...Are you both sure your world will, uh... be alright with me? I mean, I hope so. I am using all my vacation days." He joked the last part, but Viktor could tell he was genuinely nervous. 

"That world will be much more accepting of the circumstances. I can only imagine that the Professor will be beyond thrilled to meet you. You've already met Salo and the only other people you will meet are likely Councilor Merdarda and her assistant, Miss Elora." Viktor said. The older Jayce blew out a quiet breath. 

"...The other version of my volunteer organization boss. Right." He gave a nervous laugh. The younger Jayce spoke up hesitantly. 

"Would... you be willing to meet... Cait?" 

At that, the older Jayce froze up and a look of panic and uncertainty instantly overtook his face. His jaw clenched quietly. "...I need to think about it." He finally managed. The bell to the front of the diner rang and Viktor paused as Lest froze up behind the counter. He couldn't see who was at the door, but he imagined it was concerning. Finally, Lest put on a smile and spoke, making Viktor stiffen. 

"Good morning, Deputy. What can I get for you?" 

Chapter Text

A woman's voice spoke after Lest's. Gruff, unamused, strict.

Familiar.

Viktor instantly stiffened. Hadn't he heard that same voice... just yesterday?? The older Jayce seemed to notice that he'd gone pale and he snapped his fingers to get the younger Jayce's attention. The younger one glanced at Viktor and his eyes widened. "Bathroom is over there. Quick." The older Jayce muttered. The younger Jayce helped Viktor up and they both moved towards the bathroom, opening the door and slipping inside. They shut and locked the door, though Viktor had caught a glance of the woman with the prosthetic arm, wearing a police uniform. The same one that had been walking him to meet Silco. She was an officer. The Deputy. Silco had people everywhere. 

"Talis." The woman's voice drifted through the door and Viktor's hand curled against the wood worriedly. "Seems like you have company." 

"I was enjoying a nice breakfast, yeah." Jayce was heard responding curtly and overly polite. The woman was heard snorting.

"Where's your arm candy? That former fellow tent dweller that's been by your side for the past few months."

"He's my boyfriend." Jayce's voice had become much more hostile. "He's been living with me for months now. Don't call him that." The woman didn't respond and Jayce finally spoke again. "My brother is visiting from out of town. They both stepped out for a moment." 

"I didn't know you had a brother." 

"I don't mention him."

"Why? Another family member lost from your years-long bender?" The woman's voice became vaguely jeering and it seemed like it was Jayce's turn to be silent. "Lighten up, Talis, it's a joke."

"Jokes are supposed to be funny, Sevika." Jayce's voice was tight and forcibly controlled. Sevika was heard scoffing. 

"Badge is on. It's Deputy." She seemed to remind him flatly. Jayce was quiet again. "Glare at me all you want, but your boyfriend is needed for questioning and the Sheriff says he refused to finish answering her. Now it's my turn." 

"I am not leaving Viktor alone with you. I don't even want to imagine what shit you'd spew about me to him." Jayce stated, his tone the closest to a growl that Viktor had ever heard it. "He's already on edge from her questions earlier. Have any of you considered that maybe he needs a little time to recover from being kidnapped straight from my apartment??" Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and their conversation became fuzzy as he inhaled shakily. Warm knuckles gently nudged his arm and Viktor turned to look back at the younger Jayce in the small room.

The younger Jayce stared at him with wide eyes and he instantly reached out before hesitating. He looked like he wanted to pull Viktor into a hug, but he wouldn't and Viktor appreciated it. But he really needed one. He limped forward and into Jayce's arms, his free arm wrapping around the larger man as he buried his face against his chest. "What's the matter?? Did the Enforcers here do something to you??" Jayce asked worriedly. Viktor would have to teach him that they weren't called Enforcers here, but not right then. He glanced back at the door and shook his head. Jayce had wrapped his arms around him in a protective manner. "Y-You're scared of her. Why??" 

Because in both worlds, this same woman had tried to hunt him down for Silco. Because in both worlds, she was incredibly capable of doing so. It was by mere luck that he'd managed to escape her both times. He didn't know if he could do it again. His fingers curled tightly into Jayce's shirt as he squeezed his eyes shut. Viktor could tell Jayce only became more worried by his lack of an answer and he gathered him closer. "O-Okay, uh... what do you need? What can I do?" He asked, taking Viktor by the shoulder and carefully holding him out. He looked distressed and Viktor could only stare back at him. The younger Jayce fidgeted before swallowing. He leaned down and his face hovered in front of Viktor's. His eyes seemed to search his over for permission before Viktor took initiative. 

He leaned forward and pressed their lips together, his hand shakily settling on Jayce's shoulder. He felt Jayce perk up before pressing back, though he could only break away with the softest, weakest laugh as he watched Jayce struggle on where to put his hands, awkwardly hovering them in different places around Viktor's body. The younger Jayce huffed at him. "I-I can't read your mind like he can, okay?" He mumbled, glancing aside. Viktor paused and his smile faltered a little. Jayce blinked, meeting his gaze before straightening up and keeping his head turned away. "It's okay. Th-That you have a deeper connection with him. It makes sense. We didn't... exactly have the best start a-and he's... obviously much better at, uh, comfort and..." Jayce's shoulders sank. "Boundaries." 

Viktor frowned. "...Jayce." He knew that the younger Jayce always felt left out or neglected since he wasn't nearly as assertive or teasing as his older counterpart. 

"I-I'm just saying I understand." Jayce managed, his hands moving to fold behind his back again. "He's... focused and he's romantic-"

"Jayce."

"Actually good at comforting people-"

"Jayce!" Viktor kept his voice hushed, but he stepped forward into Jayce's space. The younger Jayce didn't even seem jealous of his older counterpart. Just defeated. He had jumped at Viktor's sharp tone, his eyes wide. Viktor held out his hand, his palm up. Jayce stared at it in surprise, glancing up at Viktor uncertainly before looking back down again. He reached out and when his fingers touched Viktor's palm, Viktor pulled his hand forward and pressed his lips to his knuckles. Instantly, Jayce's whole face went a shade of red Viktor had never seen before and he blinked at him. "...Please stop comparing yourself to him. I know it may be difficult, since you are the same person, but your personalities and your experiences differentiate you. You will never be him, as he will never be you. You may be the same person, but you are two separate beings." 

Jayce stared at him before glancing aside. "...It's hard." He managed quietly. "You laugh and relax so easily with him. He seems comfortable teasing you and he seems to know when he can and can't touch you. He always seems like he knows the right thing to say." He was quiet for a moment. "I want to take care of you like that too." Viktor's eyes softened on him. 

"Despite the ramblings and rantings you go on day after day, your love language is not verbal like his, Jayce. You do things differently." Viktor said softly. He shifted their hands and Jayce flustered again as Viktor slipped his fingers between his, grasping his hand gently. "You love through touch. Through giving. You always bring me food if you think I may need it. Always my favorite too. And you never bring anything new unless you are absolutely certain I'd like it because you don't want me to have any kind of bad experience." Viktor hooked his cane on his arm and reached up with his other hand, cupping Jayce's cheek. "Every morning, I wake up and you are tangled around me like yarn, despite us falling asleep very much on opposite sides of the bed." A bit of amusement crept into his voice. 

Jayce stared at him. "That... doesn't bother you??" He asked, his voice slightly strained. Viktor stared at him before shaking his head. 

"Believe it or not, you are very good at telling when I am not to be touched." Viktor assured him, scanning his golden-brown eyes over. "It may be true that I became interested in him first, but you... were not far behind. Especially with how detailed and precise you were with your explanations and research. I had never heard anything like it." Viktor smiled for him and Jayce seemed speechless. "I am not with you out of pity, Jayce. Nor am I with you out of obligation. You rush into things with such determination with no immediate fear for bad outcomes. In a way, I admire such recklessness." He chuckled softly. "And I admire you."

Jayce could only give a small nod and Viktor's hand moved from his cheek to slide through his hair and pull him down into another kiss. Jayce seemed to melt much faster and a vague noise was heard in his throat. "If you feel neglected... if you want me to pay attention to you... just ask." Viktor whispered softly. Jayce swallowed quietly before nodding. He glanced up at the door again with wide eyes as there was yelling and his arms quickly wrapped around Viktor. Viktor turned to look back at the door in shock as the older Jayce's voice came through. 

"-GO TO FUCKING HELL!! I don't care what she told you, you have no right to taunt me about that as an officer of the law when you don't even KNOW ME!!" He sounded furious and Viktor's shoulders tensed up. The older Jayce rarely ever lost his temper. He hadn't heard him scream like this in ages. "You think I don't feel guilty enough without a complete stranger trying to needle some reaction out of me?! Here's your fucking reaction!! Happy now?!" There was a crash and Viktor quickly pulled from the younger Jayce's arms. 

"Viktor??" 

"Stay here." Viktor told him quickly, his eyes wide. The younger Jayce nodded. He moved out of sight of the door and Viktor opened it, slipping out into the open. All of the diner patrons were quiet and some of them were quickly leaving. Lest had stepped up to Jayce and Sevika, immediately snapping at the both of them. A shattered plate was on the floor. Jayce seemed to notice Viktor and his eyes widened. Viktor quickly limped forward and Sevika froze as she saw him, but he paid her no mind. "Jayce??" Viktor hooked his cane on his arm and reached up, sliding his fingers through his beard before cupping his cheeks. 

Jayce looked upset, to say the least. He was so close to tears that it wasn't even funny. "Y-You shouldn't be-" 

"Hush." Viktor stated, though there was no sharpness behind his tone. "Please take deep breaths. Please?" Jayce stared at him before nodding. He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to control his breathing. 

"Are you Viktor?" 

He hesitated as he heard Sevika and glanced back at her with an unamused, knowing look. "...I have no interest in your questions, Deputy. Your police force has proven nothing but immature and inflammatory to me." He stated firmly. "I reserve the right to be left alone. The Sheriff believes me to be a liar about my trauma and you have proven to be an instigator towards Jayce's. This is horrible behavior from those meant to protect us." Sevika scoffed after a moment and she opened her mouth, but Lest shook her head.

"Uh-uh, Deputy. Not in my diner. There's been enough ruckus." She stated, holding up her hand. Sevika stared at them before glancing around to the uncomfortable-looking diner patrons. She finally let out a heavy sigh.

"We can't bring your kidnappers to justice if-"

"So be it then." Viktor interrupted firmly. He turned to her with a glare. "Please leave us alone. The case can be closed. I am not interested in pressing charges and I am not answering any more questions. Please just leave." He turned back to Jayce, who'd buried his face in his hand. 

"...I'm sorry, Viktor." Jayce managed weakly. "I shouldn't have yelled and I shouldn't have broken-"

"Jayce. Please." Viktor finally hugged him and the older man jumped before his arms wrapped around him and his face buried against Viktor's hair. They all flinched as the door rattled, Sevika having slammed it shut behind her as she left. "Miss Lest, I am so deeply sorry for this trouble." Viktor said, turning to the woman with sunken shoulders. The woman seemed unhappy as she hugged her arms. She glanced up at Jayce. 

"...You are really going to let her talk like that about you to the whole police department? I know what happened between you and the Sheriff-" Lest paused as Jayce shook his head. 

"What else am I supposed to do?? I treated Cait terribly. It... It makes sense she told them." Jayce buried his face into his hand. "...I'd hate me too." He squeezed his eyes shut before taking a deep breath. "I'm so sorry about the plate, I'll pay for it and I'll help clean it up." 

"I can help." They all jumped as the younger Jayce spoke. He'd snuck out of the bathroom. "You, uh, should sit. I haven't heard you lose your temper before and, uh, I'm a little worried your head might not be used to it." He gave a small smile. The older Jayce blinked before nodding. He turned and moved back to the booth before sitting down and burying his face in his hands. "Miss Lest, what can I do?" The younger Jayce took over as Viktor limped over to the older one, his cane softly tapping. The older Jayce was holding his head. 

"...He's right. I'm light-headed." He managed quietly. Viktor leaned down, cupping his cheeks before pressing his forehead to his. Jayce pressed back against him before pulling Viktor down into a kiss with his hand against the back of his neck. "Viktor, I'm sorry you had to hear that." Viktor shook his head after Jayce whispered the words against his lips. He kissed him again before pulling back. 

"Don't be. You've been trying to be too strong." He nuzzled their cheeks together. "It's okay to break sometimes."

Chapter Text

As expected, Viktor reappeared right where he'd left. In his and Jayce's apartment. For the moment, he was alone, but he knew the younger Jayce was preparing his older self to cross through worlds. The rest of the week had gone by much shakier than Viktor had ever wished to admit, though he couldn't help but smile at how fast the younger Jayce had solved the problem with Engine 9 the moment they took him down to the station. Or the way Ekko instantly fled as Jayce yelled out that he'd been the kid that scammed him. "Ugh, there you are." Salo's voice nearly gave him a heart attack and Viktor turned to him in shock. 

The Councilman was sitting on the couch, although his exposed wrists still sported plasters and bruises. He'd had his legs crossed and Viktor stared at him. "Where did you-" 

"Both of you forgot to lock your front door before crossing worlds, might I add. What if someone less fortunate than me had found out? All of your things gone in an instant. You are quite lucky I happened to visit when I did." Salo stated matter-of-factly. Viktor wasn't sure whether to roll his eyes at him or himself. How could he have forgotten about the door?? He sighed before glancing up as Salo pushed himself up from the couch with a small flinch. He was still clearly wobbling on his feet. Viktor glanced around for his cane and blinked as Salo held it out to him. 

"They allowed you from the hospital so early? And by yourself??" Viktor asked worriedly, taking the cane and starting to limp around Salo in concern. The other man scoffed and waved his hand dismissively. 

"There are Enforcers down the hall. I cause far too much trouble to go anywhere by myself, but I know better than to allow Enforcers into your private space. Especially after... all that." Salo rolled his eyes and let out a heavy sigh of exasperation. "Honestly..." He startled as Viktor hugged him with one arm. "Oh... Unexpected, but not unwelcome, I suppose." He hugged him back with one arm as well. 

"Allira, you almost died. Because of me." Viktor stated after a moment. "Only the gods know what they were going to-" 

"I think either of us could've pieced it together." Salo said, patting him quietly. He pulled back. "One is not a socialite, a Councilor and a member of Piltover's grand Houses without having consequences or enemies, Viktor. More than anything, I know my death will come as a result to this." He chuckled weakly as he shook his head. "I am not destined to die by old age and, good gods, thank the heavens for that because I want to look my best in the open casket." 

Despite how dark the words were, Viktor couldn't help but give the weakest laugh. "Salo!" He stated his name scoldingly. Salo glanced over at him in mock offense.

"Is it wrong that I would like to look nice on my deathbed?? I think not." He stated. Viktor couldn't believe him for a moment before scoffing and shaking his head as he turned away. "Where is your partner? Has he not returned yet?" 

"Both he and his older counterpart are preparing to cross. We have to be careful, as crossing has proven to damage the Arcane. No matter how much it tells me it is alright, I don't like it." Viktor mumbled, closing his eyes in quiet defeat. Salo was quiet for a moment and Viktor could tell he was concerned too, but the other man quickly covered it up as he spoke again. 

"Jayce Talis with long hair and a scruffy beard was certainly not on my list of things to see! You must feel very lucky." Salo commented teasingly, Viktor feeling his face go hot. "I am quite honestly shocked he isn't in prison if I was his lawyer." Viktor gave a weak snort. 

"Are you not a politician, Salo?" 

The dead silence paired with the absolutely flat look Salo gave him sent laughter erupting out of Viktor's chest. "Oh, yes, sure. That." Salo stated, waving his hand dismissively as he turned away. "Regardless, a lawyer and a politician are quite different. I find it easier to make the laws than..." Salo waved his hand vaguely and Viktor raised a brow. 

"Follow them?" He questioned. Salo instantly clicked his tongue and pointed at him. 

"No, because that would imply I am a hypocrite and there are certain things I would take to my grave before labeling myself as such." Salo said matter-of-factly. They both startled as the sound of tearing flesh ripped through the air and Viktor flinched. When the wound opened in front of them, the older Jayce stumbled through first. He looked shocked and absolutely frozen for a moment as the younger one quickly stepped through the hole behind him and turned, quickly stitching it back up. The older Jayce stared around the apartment for a moment before his eyes landed on Viktor and Salo. "...Ah, welcome, Mr. Talis." Salo said after a moment. 

The older Jayce opened his mouth and a slightly shaky noise escaped him. "Jayce." Viktor spoke quickly and the younger one moved forward, barely catching his older counterpart in time as he passed out. "Salo, thank you for your visit, but I am afraid we will have to tend to him. Will I be seeing you later this week?" He turned to the other man and Salo nodded. 

"As always. Please take your time. I know this world will be a bit of a shock for him." Salo said, gesturing to the older Jayce. The younger one was staring at Salo in worry and he seemed to notice. "There are Enforcers down the hall. I did not come here on my own." He assured him, Jayce relaxing and nodding. "I'll be seeing you both or perhaps you all." He gestured around to the three of them vaguely before waving and shutting the door behind him as he left. Viktor made sure to lock it this time. 

They both moved the older Jayce to the bed in Jayce's room. Viktor furrowed his brow as he checked his pulse and temperature. He glanced over at the younger Jayce with a look of relief, which seemed to soothe him too. "We made it." Jayce said, smiling awkwardly. Viktor nodded, murmuring in amusement that they did. He stepped back, allowing Jayce to pull in pillows to tuck under his older self's head, along with blankets. Viktor turned away, moving to his bathroom as his cane tapped along the floor. He hadn't bathed before crossing over and even though he'd thought it was fine, he was certainly regretting it now. 

Viktor turned on the water, having created a habit of leaving the door open. He no longer minded if Jayce saw him, since this was their place. Their safe space. With each other. He remembered how flustered Jayce had been the first few times before he'd started getting used to it and even doing it himself. It hadn't escaped Viktor's notice that Jayce had started to build up his muscle. He'd been visiting the forge more and more often in order to create the pieces they needed for projects. Viktor would wake up to an empty bed in the early hours of the morning, a note telling him that Jayce had an idea. It always made him laugh, even if he felt a little alone. Viktor watched the tub start to fill up before leaning his cane against the counter and starting to unbutton his shirt. 

There was a soft knocking on the doorframe behind him and Viktor paused before turning to look back at Jayce. The other man stared at him quietly before his gaze averted. "...Can I help? Is it a good day for that?" He asked hesitantly. Viktor's eyes softened on him and he nodded. Jayce moved forward and helped Viktor out of his clothes, leaving him naked and leaning on his cane. Jayce swallowed quietly and it surprised Viktor enough to make his face flush.

"You have seen me bare before, Jayce." He said quietly, Jayce seeming to fluster. 

"I-I know. I know, I just... I still... I still get a little... shocked that you're letting me." Jayce stumbled over his words and finally buried his face in his hands. Viktor stared at him before giving a soft bit of laughter. "Viktor, would it... would it be rude of me to... want..." Jayce seemed to freeze up and squeeze his eyes shut as he tried to piece together what he wanted to say. Viktor let him focus, turning away and shutting the water off before looking back at him. "I just... Could... I..." Viktor could see how hard he was struggling and he reached out, gently taking Jayce's hand. He gave it a squeeze and Jayce exhaled quietly, trying to gather himself. "Can I have... sex with you... without him?" He spaced out each section firmly before clenching his jaw worriedly. 

Viktor stared at him in surprise. "O-Oh." He managed in a quiet voice. "I am not certain, Jayce... He..." Viktor did feel a little bad about it. "He has always insisted that he be there if you wanted to make love to me. Because he is unsure if you will accidentally hurt me or set me off. Because he remembers being like you." Each word only seemed to discourage Jayce more and, by the end, his shoulders were sunken. Each word only stuck harder into Viktor's throat. "We should wait until he wakes up..." 

"...Okay." Jayce mumbled the word quietly and he raised his hand to slide it through his hair. "I, uh... I might try to finish some things up at the forge. I'll be back in a few hours, okay?" He gave him a smile and Viktor watched him before his own shoulders sank. 

"No." 

"No??" Jayce seemed taken back by that. "Oh. I..." He didn't seem to know what to say. 

"I want you to stay." Viktor said softly. He used the counter to keep himself steady as he took a step forward. He met his eyes. "Please." Jayce's eyes weakened as he stared down at him. "I want to talk to you about these things. I don't... want us to run away from one another. I do that enough for all three of us." Viktor mumbled, his gaze moving aside. He paused as Jayce's hand gently cupped his cheek. 

"I'll stay."

Chapter Text

Viktor could feel Jayce's heartbeat against his back as he laid against him in the warm bath water. He'd asked the other to join him. He rested his cheek back against his shoulder, able to feel Jayce's arms loosely wrapped around his waist. He was fiddling with his fingers. "...Jayce. It is not that I don't trust you-"

"But he doesn't." 

Viktor's shoulders sank a little as Jayce spoke, his eyes pointed to the side. "...It was not just for my sake. He told me that he knew how badly it would affect you if you happened to hurt me in any way. He said he did not want that for you." Jayce gave a small nod, though he still looked defeated. He seemed to fiddle with his own fingers even harder. "I am certain he will say yes. It's just... I did tell him that he could be there." Viktor answered with shamefully red cheeks. "It was when I was visibly showing interest in you after he and I were... established in a way." He never liked to mention it, knowing how secondary this Jayce always felt. He felt Jayce's fiddling stop as the other man nodded silently. "Jayce? Please talk to me." 

"I... I really... think that all I do is get in the way of you both." Jayce finally stated, though it seemed more than difficult for him to even get the words out. "You both are so comfortable with one another. Like you've known each other forever. I just... feel like an intruder." Jayce finally pulled his arms away and he rested his elbow on the side of the tub as he buried his face in his hand. "I kind of just... feel like I'm some kind of accessory to you both." His voice became a little strangled and Viktor shifted around. He moved around so he could face Jayce, watching him in dismay. Jayce wouldn't meet his eyes. "I-I mean, obviously, I'm not as good at reading body language or picking up on discomforts and... it just feels like I'm amusing to both of you more than anything. But not in a good way." 

Viktor stared at him quietly and Jayce glanced away again. "...How long have you felt like that, Jayce?" Viktor asked softly. He had a sinking feeling in his stomach and it was confirmed when Jayce spoke again. 

"Since the beginning." He mumbled. Viktor's hands tightened into fists and he squeezed his eyes shut. It was his fault then. Because he'd been so frazzled by the younger Jayce's need for touch. Because he'd been so scared of it. Scared of him. "I know you both don't think that. I know it's all in my head, but it's just hard to shake off that I'm... not really in a relationship with you both, but I'm more just a... a piece of it." Viktor gave a weak sigh through his nose. 

"I'm sorry, Jayce." He managed softly. "If I'd had a better reaction to you in the first place-" 

"Would've been hard to, I think." Jayce interrupted in a weak attempt at a joke. Viktor reached out to him and Jayce hesitated before allowing Viktor to gently hook his fingers under his chin and sit him up. Viktor stared at him quietly before moving forward and leaning against his chest. Jayce's arm immediately raised to hug him close. "...I just wish I could be that playful and comfortable with you like he is. Just make you laugh or blush so easily. Every time I want to, I overthink it and then the moment passes and it's awkward to try and get it back. A-And I shouldn't be jealous of myself, but I... I am." Jayce bunched his hand up in his hair. "I keep wondering why I can't be like him if we're the same person, but we're... we're also not the same." He furrowed his brow as he stared forward before glancing down at Viktor helplessly. "I don't know what to do. I want to be... like you guys. With you guys." 

"We have not been giving you enough attention then. If we are to continue like this, each of us should feel equally tended to. Equally cared for. This is... clearly not the case." Viktor mumbled worriedly. They both startled as there was a stumble from the doorway. The older Jayce looked disheveled, but he made his way into the bathroom on shaky legs and sank down next to the tub. "You should not be moving around yet!" Viktor exclaimed. The younger Jayce had sat up quickly, reaching out to his older self in worry before freezing up as he took his hand and gave it a squeeze. 

The older Jayce finally positioned himself against the wall so he could look at them and gave a tired smile. "Hey." He managed quietly. 

"Hello." Viktor's voice was soft. 

"...Hey?" The younger Jayce's voice was even softer. The older one looked both of them over before pulling the younger Jayce's hand to his lips and pressing them to his knuckles. The younger Jayce startled like he'd been electrocuted, his eyes wide. 

"I think we need to talk. Is that alright?" The older Jayce asked his younger self quietly, though his tone suggested that he could say no if he really wanted to. However, the younger Jayce only gave a small nod in response. The older Jayce watched him for a few more moments before glancing to the side and seeming to try to pull together his words. "...I'm sorry I've been strange with you." The older Jayce said quietly, looking his younger self over. "The fact that I'm even here speaking to you at all is... a lot for me. Especially seeing you living at this age I've already gone past. So I guess I think I already know everything about you... but that isn't true, is it?" The older one glanced up at him. "I hold you at an awkward length because you're me. I put expectations on you that I shouldn't because you’re me. It's not that I don't trust you." His thumb tapped anxiously against the younger Jayce's knuckle. "...I don't trust myself." The younger Jayce stared at his older counterpart for a moment before his shoulders sank. "It's... really hard. Seeing your face... my face next to him when I can't control what's happening." 

The younger Jayce moved closer to the side of the tub and he reached out, pulling his older self into a hug, which was quickly and almost desperately accepted. "It's hard having to trust that I won't hurt him, even if it's just my appearance." The words seemed to strangle the older Jayce as he spoke and the younger one furrowed his brow. "And it's just as hard to trust that I won't hurt myself again." The younger Jayce paused, clearly so taken back by the older one showing vulnerability like this. And yet, there was a deeper look of delight at being trusted like this. He looked over at Viktor with wide eyes and Viktor nodded encouragingly. 

"You're worried about hurting me?" The younger Jayce asked quietly. 

"If I relapse, I am terrified of hurting you. Because you have my face." The older Jayce said softly. "Because I hate myself and if I happened to see you while I'm completely..." He trailed off and squeezed his eyes shut. The younger Jayce's eyes softened. He blinked as the older Jayce pulled away from him, turning to face him before leaning in. Viktor jumped a little, feeling his face go hot as their lips met. He felt like he was being so invasive of their privacy, but he wasn't quite sure he could look away either. The older Jayce had control of the kiss, but it was clear he was being gentle as the younger Jayce gave a weak shudder. "...I think this self-love is really important and I mean it." The older Jayce whispered against his lips before he pulled back. 

"Y-Yeah." The younger Jayce could only mumble a single word in response as he stared at himself with huge eyes. "I..." He glanced between his older self and Viktor with hesitancy before speaking again. "I just want to feel the same with both of you. I want to make you both happy. I think I might just be too easy to please. I just like seeing both of you and I like seeing you guys look at me even more." Viktor stared at him and he flustered quietly. "I just want it all to feel the same. And I know it won't all the time, but... just... more than it is." Viktor finally moved forward and he pulled the younger Jayce down. Their lips met and, just like with the older Jayce, the younger one relinquished control to him immediately. Viktor pulled away and buried his face into his bare shoulder. 

There was a shuffle and Viktor glanced up in time for his whole face to go hot with embarrassment as the older Jayce held up the condom to his younger self, having pulled it from his wallet. The younger Jayce seemed more than a little flustered. "I'm going to go lay back down. It would be great if you both could wake me or at least lay with me once you’re done." He gave them a smile, chuckling softly. Viktor hesitated before moving over to the side of the tub. "Hm? You need something?" The older Jayce teased gently. Viktor scoffed at him. 

"If I do not receive said something, you will not be receiving any of the food I plan to make." Viktor replied, huffing softly. The older Jayce managed to look dramatically wounded before leaning in. The kiss he shared with Viktor was much deeper and heavier, considering Viktor didn't just give up control to him. He pulled back with a smile and the older Jayce laughed. 

"Greedy." 

"Mm, perhaps the old man should leave the kids to play." Viktor taunted, making the older Jayce give a dark chuckle. 

"Oh, you're so going to get it later." 

"Am I?"

Chapter Text

The bath was soon left empty and Viktor had burst out in laughter as Jayce finally set him down on their bed. "Can you free me now??" He asked, having been completely wrapped up in two different towels. Jayce had one wrapped around his waist as he smiled down at Viktor. He took the edges of the towels and he opened them up like he was carefully unwrapping a gift. Viktor slightly regretted asking to be freed as he was fully exposed to the man before him. He swallowed softly, staring up at him. Jayce's smile had faltered, but only to be replaced by an awestruck look. He had placed the condom to the side and he leaned over Viktor quietly. He wouldn't dare move towards him and Viktor appreciated it. He let out a soft breath before reaching up and guiding him forward.

He pulled Jayce down into a kiss, the larger man settling with his elbows on either side of him. Viktor easily licked into his mouth and Jayce gave a heavy shudder as a whine stirred in his throat. Viktor pulled away to look him over, a small smile tugging at his lips as he stroked his thumb over Jayce's cleanly shaven jaw. He saw uncertainty crop up in the larger man's eyes. "Uh, what are you... thinking?" Insecurity crept into his voice and Viktor hummed. 

"...That you will not be able to hide any marks or bruises here like he does." Viktor responded, his tone so innocent that it seemed to take Jayce a good moment to process what he'd actually said. However, by the time he did, Viktor's teeth were already nipping at his neck and jawline. He exhaled shakily, his head seeming to unconsciously tip back. Viktor's nips and kisses became slightly more greedy and Jayce's breathing sped up. Viktor shivered as he suddenly felt Jayce's hand settled on his midsection, spanning across his whole stomach. Viktor stared at it and glanced up, only to find Jayce staring at as well, his mouth open in slight shock. 

Jayce slowly pushed himself back and reached out, gripping Viktor's waist and studying the way his hands swallowed his hips. Viktor shuddered at the way Jayce's eyes blew wide. He seemed too stunned to speak and glanced up at Viktor, as if he was making sure Viktor could see it too. Viktor's face was burning so hot that he had to lean back and bury it against the pillow. "Y-Yes, Jayce, I can... I can see." Viktor's voice tapered off into a small mutter. Jayce's face was flushed as he nodded and gave a soft apology. Now that he was between Viktor's legs, the towel around his waist was doing very little to hide how riled up he already was. Jayce swallowed quietly and he undid the towel from his waist. "...Good gods." Viktor reached out and Jayce inhaled shakily as his finger drew up the underside of Jayce's length.

He was ever so slightly guiding it forward and both of them shivered as it nestled neatly against Viktor's folds. Viktor's jaws had parted and he gave a quiet exhale. "Jayce. As much as I would like this-" He carefully drew his finger over the leaking tip and Jayce made a small noise. "-inside me now, I would quite appreciate being prepped." He gestured to the nightstand and Jayce was already reaching out and digging through it. He nearly dropped the lube, catching it with a completely flustered look. "Jayce." Viktor sat up and placed his hands over Jayce's. The younger man stared at him with wide, nervous eyes. Viktor searched him over with a frown. "What's wrong? W-We've done this before."

Jayce swallowed before glancing aside. "...It'll be my chance to prove that I can pleasure you by myself." He managed quietly. Viktor stared at him before furrowing his brow. 

"Jayce, you have nothing to prove to me." He was a little taken back before all that confusion dispelled at Jayce's next words. 

"Not to you." He agreed quietly. The level of self-doubt in his words made Viktor's heart sink a little as he stared at him. Jayce gave a small sigh and flashed him a quiet smile. Viktor finally gave a heavier sigh and reached out, pulling Jayce towards him and pressing their lips together. Jayce sank into the kiss almost gratefully, his head tipping to the side. Viktor pulled back and tapped at his hands with a prompting look. Jayce jumped and nodded, popping the cap of the lube off and slicking up his fingers. Viktor dragged his legs open a little wider for him, trying to ignore how flustered it made him to be so exposed. Jayce lowered his hand down and Viktor couldn't help but flinch at the jolt as Jayce shoved a thick finger inside of him. 

Jayce instantly stopped, his eyes wide. "Sorry. Sorry." His voice weakened and Viktor shook his head. He reached out and shakily guided Jayce's wrist so his finger was angled inside of him. It slid much easier and Viktor relaxed a little. "L-Like that?" Viktor nodded and Jayce nodded in response before trying to focus again. He kept his movements slow and careful. 

"Jayce. Have you had any dreams lately?" Viktor asked softly through his small breaths. Jayce glanced up at him in surprise. 

"I-I mean, yeah, but you want me to tell you about them now?" He asked in confusion. Viktor nodded. 

"Wh-Whenever you explain something to me, your hands are always... hah... moving. Fiddling and stretching and picking. You can put them to use like this while you speak." Viktor explained as he laid back against the pillow. Jayce stared at him before his cheeks went a darker shade of red and he nodded. When he started to tell Viktor about a dream he'd had, his hands really started moving. Jayce had two fingers inside now, slowly thrusting and rubbing around inside while his thumb circled his clit over and over. Viktor was trying so hard to listen, but his body kept giving small spasms of pleasure. 

Jayce's other hand wasn't doing much to help his focus either. Viktor couldn't focus on him talking anymore as he felt Jayce's hand slipping up and down his side, outlining it with his fingers. His touches were always firm. The repetitive movements were driving him crazy and his eyes slipped shut as he was lulled into familiarity. What he didn't expect was for Jayce to suddenly pull his fingers out and pinch his clit. It was so sudden and startling that something in Viktor broke instantly. His vision fuzzed and he heard Jayce exclaim something as his hips twitched. He was momentarily robbed of breath and he didn't know if the noise he made was anything good. But gods, it had felt good. It was silent for a moment and Viktor became aware of just how soaked he was. 

"O-Oh gods, you... you squirted." Jayce yelped as Viktor suddenly pulled his legs back and squeezed them shut, his face going so hot that he could barely stand it. "No, no! N-No, I'm not making fun of you!! Viktor, please." Jayce's voice became slightly desperate. Viktor had buried his face in his hands and he finally felt Jayce's fingers settle on his wrists. He didn't try to grab them. They were shaking. "Viktor?? I'm sorry. I'm sorry, if you want to just kick me out, you can. I-I shouldn't have said anything." Jayce sounded so upset with himself that Viktor hesitated and lowered his hands a little. He froze up. Jayce was crying. 

Viktor's eyes widened and he reached out, quickly cupping his cheeks. Jayce shook his head. "I-It's fine. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I keep fucking this up." Jayce looked so stressed out and his shoulders were sunken. He squeezed his eyes shut again. "Fucking hell!" He dug his fingers into the bed. Viktor furrowed his brow and glanced back. 

"Jayce, could you lay me up against the pillows more?" Viktor requested softly, rubbing circles on his cheeks with his thumbs. Jayce blinked before scooping an arm under Viktor and pulling him up. When he laid him down, he went to go pull away, but Viktor held him close. His arms slid over his back and Jayce seemed to startle as Viktor pulled his body down against his. He cradled Jayce's head before leaning forward and pressing his lips to his forehead. He followed with a kiss to his nose. He finished with a kiss to his lips, a small whine dragging from Jayce's throat. "The lube." He prompted softly, letting Jayce go after wiping away his tears. 

"R-Right." Jayce leaned back up, getting the lube with shaking hands. He was still painfully hard and Viktor swallowed softly. Jayce glanced up at him and Viktor gestured to his length. "Are you sure you won't need more?" 

"...Jayce, we'll have to change the sheets with how I just soaked them." Viktor mumbled, glancing away. Jayce nodded wordlessly. He shivered as he started to slick up his length, clearly already throbbing. He was breathing heavily again once he finished. Viktor could tell Jayce wasn't going to last much longer. "Come here." Viktor invited quietly, opening his arms again. Jayce slid up against him and he exhaled shakily as the head of his length pushed between Viktor's folds. "Come on." Viktor encouraged quietly. "Easy... oh..." Viktor trailed off in a moan as he felt himself slowly filling up with Jayce's length. His fingers curled into his skin. "Oh, gods..." He clung to him and made a shaky noise as he felt Jayce's length in his stomach. "...Just like that."

Jayce's hips were pressed flush against Viktor's and he was breathing so heavily that Viktor was afraid he would pass out. He pulled Jayce's forehead to his own, one hand rubbing over the back of his neck and the other gently scratching the back of his head. "M-Mmh, Viktor..." Jayce whined his name desperately and Viktor nodded against him. Jayce slowly began to thrust, both of them letting out groans of pleasure. Viktor was a little annoyed that Jayce was allowed to be this physically gifted. Apparently having a face like his wasn't enough, was it? Viktor could feel every shudder of Jayce's hips and every throb of his length. So much more and so much deeper than he usually could. "V-Viktor..." 

"I-I have you. I have you. You are doing so well, Jayce. Hah... You are doing so well." Viktor assured him through his panting. Jayce seemed to relax at that, his eyes slipping shut. His thrusts were becoming a little more stuttery and erratic. "G-Good, Jayce. Ah..." Viktor could feel his own pressure building up in his stomach again. He continued to praise him in soft whispers, each one seeming to send a throb straight to his length. Jayce was nearly in tears again as he devolved to quicker, smaller thrusts. Viktor was so close and he shivered. All of a sudden, he heard Jayce swear and yank out of him. "Jayce?!" Viktor startled as thick white ropes spattered his hips, Jayce's eyes wide and his face pale. He was panting before he squeezed his eyes shut and covered his face, letting out a weak, shaking noise of relief. 

Viktor wasn't sure what had happened and he was more worried than he was angry about being robbed of his own release. "Jayce?? Good gods, are you okay?? What happened?" Jayce looked like he was about to have a panic attack and he shook his head. 

"...We forgot the condom." Jayce managed quietly. Viktor froze up, a chill going down his spine as he leaned around him to see the foil package unopened on the bed. That was why he'd felt Jayce so deeply. Viktor's mouth was open and his cheeks burned with shock. He raised a hand to his mouth before glancing up at Jayce. Jayce looked absolutely devastated. "Viktor, I fucked up everything. I couldn't even remember to put on the condom." Jayce sat back and buried his face in his hands. 

"You remembered to pull out." Viktor said softly. "J-Jayce." He ignored his own discomfort, sitting up and managing to move over to Jayce. "Jayce, y-you remembered, okay? I'm very grateful for that." Viktor reached out and took his hands with his own trembling ones. He buried his cheek against his palm. "Th-Thank you." 

"Viktor, you shouldn't be thanking me for forgetting to put on the condom. Fuck. I nearly..." Jayce inhaled shakily and squeezed his eyes shut. "You would hate me. Fuck, Viktor, you would-"

"Jayce!" Viktor spoke sharply and the larger man startled. "I would not hate you. I would be frightened, yes. I might panic. But I would not hate you." Tears ran down Jayce's face as he stared at him and Viktor's shoulders sank. "Mel or Salo would easily be able to direct us to the best clinic they know. Even if I might... I might freak out, this was something that still could be fixed." Viktor pressed his cheek into Jayce's hand again. "...We both forgot about the condom, but you remembered in time to pull out. That is why I am thanking you." Viktor gave a weak sigh. 

"...I just wanted this to be a good experience for you. Something I'm capable of doing without him. But I can't even do this for you." Jayce sounded so defeated. Viktor stared at him before giving another small sigh through his nose. His cheeks burned as he turned his head away. 

"Well, he has not made love to me unprotected." Viktor said, glancing back over at Jayce. 

"Because he's careful." Jayce responded, not seeming proud at all to be the first for it. Viktor felt the heat spread to his ears. 

"...He's never made me squirt." Viktor admitted in his softest voice. He felt dirty even saying the word, burying his face against his own shoulder. That seemed to get Jayce's attention, but he only stared at him in complete confusion. 

"Y-You do that nearly every time I eat you out. You just did it now. It doesn't seem like it's that hard." Jayce said, his brow furrowed. Embarrassment absolutely flooded Viktor's whole face, spreading down his neck and shoulders. "...Are you being serious? You do it all the time." Viktor couldn't meet his eyes and Jayce was quiet for a few more moments. "How??" 

"You touch me differently. You touch me too fast and too deep and too sudden." Viktor could see Jayce's shoulders sinking again, but he kept going. "It... It drives me wild." He admitted, burying his face against Jayce's palm again. "My body gets so wound up trying to predict you." Jayce seemed speechless. "So... that is something you are able to do that he cannot." Viktor mumbled. He was so embarrassed. "This works both ways, Jayce. I... also feel terrible that I cannot seem to give you a good experience. I might be the problem." 

"...Maybe we're both just bad."

The statement was so blunt that it caught Viktor completely off guard. He stared at Jayce before snorting and breaking out into laughter, covering his mouth and trying to muffle himself. Jayce seemed surprised and a weak smile appeared on his lips. 

"No, no, I mean-"

"What else could you possibly mean??"

"Viktor, come on! Give me a break here!" Jayce covered his face, though he was finally smiling too. Viktor stopped laughing only for a moment, meeting Jayce's eyes before snorting again. That seemed to break Jayce and he started laughing too. 

"Maybe we both are just... bad." Viktor finally agreed, leaning back against the pillows as he wiped his eyes. He couldn't help but break out into small giggles. "What eloquent wording." 

"Stop." Jayce groaned, hiding his face. He gave a heavy sigh and glanced up. Viktor watched him warmly before blinking as Jayce moved forward. He settled himself down on top of Viktor, hugging his waist and resting his chin on his sternum to look up at him. His cheeks were still flushed. Viktor sighed quietly, rubbing his finger over one of them. "...I'm sorry, Viktor." 

"Don't be." Viktor said softly. He looked him over. "...I wouldn't have left you for that, Jayce." His statement made the other man freeze up and Jayce hid his face into Viktor's chest. He was quiet for a moment. 

"Why not? That's one of your worst nightmares. You told me that. Why wouldn't you leave me??" Jayce's voice was both strained and muffled. 

"It's about intent, Jayce. You would not have intended for it. So I would not hold it against you. I would be scared to death of it, but you would be tripping over yourself to help me." Viktor said softly. "Wouldn't you?" 

"I'd probably twist my ankle." Jayce stated half-jokingly. Viktor smiled and he ran his fingers through Jayce's hair. "Can we, uh... can we reschedule this? Please...?" Viktor's eyes softened on him. 

"We can reschedule."

Chapter Text

Viktor was stirred awake when there was the sound of a table being knocked out of place. He was lying on his side in his bed, but the lamps were still on and he could feel his back against Jayce. There was one more scribble of a pen before a notebook was heard shutting. "Hey, y-you're awake. Do you need help?" Jayce spoke worriedly and Viktor felt him try to slip out of the bed without waking him up. He wasn't sure how a man like Jayce could even try to be stealthy about that, but he appreciated the effort. 

"I'm fine. I'm just a little off-balance." The older Jayce was heard replying from the doorway to the bedroom. "Probably from the reality-hopping." A grunt was heard accompanied by a thump and there was a moment of silence before a poorly concealed snort of laughter erupted, followed by a yelp. The older Jayce's voice was warm, yet exasperated. "Ha ha. Can you help me to the bed?" There was a shuffling and Viktor felt the bed creak. He suddenly felt a warm, calloused hand brush along his arm and the back of his shoulder. It caused a delight to bloom in his chest. "How did it go earlier?" 

There was a moment of silence before the younger Jayce gave a weak, awkward laugh. "Well, uh, you certainly have me beat." He seemed like he was trying to joke, but Viktor could hear the slight strain in his voice. His fingers curled slightly into the bed. 

"I, uh... wasn't aware we were competing." The older Jayce finally said, his words holding a slight tone of worry. There was another moment of silence. "Hey... You know I'm really not trying to upstage you, right? I know it's discouraging, alright? But it's just a matter of experience. I have almost a decade on both of you. At one point, I kind of was you." The younger Jayce said something Viktor couldn't quite catch and the older Jayce gave a weak scoff. "That's because I made most of them already. Got myself into trouble and barely made it out aliv-"

"You’re shaking. W-We don't have to talk about that." The younger Jayce blurted out the words, yet still managed to keep himself quiet. Viktor was impressed, to say the least. The older Jayce gave a quiet laugh. The bed shifted. "Oh, uh-" The younger Jayce's voice was muffled and he was heard letting out a shaky breath. Viktor felt his ears burn a little. Two voices were left panting, nearly identical. "You... You don't have to do that. He isn't watching." The younger Jayce mumbled. Viktor felt his face flush as he heard the younger Jayce inhale sharply. 

"Unless you want him to, I suggest keeping quiet." The older Jayce murmured. The bed creaked and Viktor felt the younger Jayce get laid down behind him. He was trembling a little. His breathing became muffled as there was the slight shuffling of clothing and Viktor squeezed his legs together. He wouldn't dare give any sign that he was awake. "You really shave every part of yourself, huh?" The older Jayce sounded slightly perplexed by that. 

"I-It's customary among those in Piltover a-and I've been to a lot of galas." The younger Jayce mumbled. "Ah?!" He suddenly jolted just a little and the older Jayce was heard shushing him. 

"I've never seen anyone with this part smooth." The older Jayce mused before the younger Jayce's leg was felt twitching against Viktor's as he gasped. "God, how did you even do this without nicking yourself??" 

"Hah! Y-You're s-squeezing...! Mmh! Pl-Please, that's... fuck! S-Stop rubbing y-your thumb th- AH!! Mmh..." The younger Jayce's broken pleas withered away into a guttural whine. "W-Wait, J-" The younger Jayce quickly cut himself off and the older Jayce seemed to stop his movements. 

"Why are you hiding? Come on. I've already seen all our expressions." The older Jayce said quietly. "I've made all our expressions." Viktor could feel how the younger Jayce shook. "What's wrong? Is it because he's here? We can move. Or we can stop too. If this is really upsetting you... we can stop." The older Jayce's tone became soft and reassuring. There was another moment of silence before he spoke again. "...Please don't cry." 

"I'm s-sorry. I'm sorry, this is..." The younger Jayce seemed to struggle to find his words. "I-It makes me feel so... self-absorbed. I feel so narcissistic because y-you're me and it feels good. I-I don't know, it just-" He was cut off and Viktor heard a slightly muffled whimper. That soft panting started again. "...I'm scared to call my own name." The younger Jayce whispered very softly. 

"Call Viktor's name then. I'm sure you like saying his name as much as I do." The older Jayce encouraged quietly. Viktor wasn't sure if he was going to make it if that's what they were deciding. He felt the bed shift again. 

"W-Woah, are you really...?" The younger Jayce sputtered in shock before Viktor felt him jump. "Your beard is prickly- HAH!" His momentary complaint was immediately swallowed up into a shaky moan as Viktor heard the wet noise of a tongue. He wondered if the older Jayce could hear how he squeezed his legs together. He didn't have to wonder much longer because he suddenly felt a hand slide up his legs, hidden beneath the blankets. Viktor swallowed and flexed one of his thighs to let the older Jayce know it was okay. "Oh, fuck... hah... A-Am I this good at sucking- AH!!" The younger Jayce gasped shakily. Viktor exhaled softly as he felt the older Jayce's finger rub between his clothed folds. Viktor was fighting the urge to roll his hips down into it. 

He finally slid a hand down and carefully pulled the older Jayce's hand away from himself. He tangled their fingers together instead. Viktor felt his movements become much more eager, causing gasps of pleasure to erupt from the younger Jayce. He suddenly spasmed and the older Jayce startled. "Sorry!! F-Fuck, sorry!!" The younger Jayce blurted out as the older one started coughing after giving an audible swallow. "Oh gods, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to just-" The older Jayce started to laugh quietly.

"Don't look so terrified." Viktor could hear the smile in the older Jayce's voice. 

"I didn't warn you at all-"

"You seemed like you didn't know it was happening either." The older Jayce interrupted the younger one's panic in a teasing tone. Viktor could feel the moment the younger Jayce hesitantly started to relax. The moment he realized that this wasn't just a front or a show. 

"...You're really enjoying this. Enjoying me." 

"You're not?" The older one replied in slight worry. Viktor gave his hidden hand an encouraging squeeze. "Listen, Jayce." Viktor heard the younger Jayce stiffen at his own voice saying his name. "I really don't think I would have went down on myself if I didn't think I was going to enjoy it. Because you’re right. This... This does feel a little narcissistic. Because we're the same... and it feels good. But if we're not hurting anything... and our partner enjoys us... Is it really that wrong?" His voice had gotten softer and he felt the younger Jayce shiver. Viktor finally rolled himself over a little, watching as the older Jayce moved over his younger counterpart, pressing his head down into the pillow with how greedy his kiss was. 

Viktor stared at them with wide eyes and the older Jayce glanced over. A smile appeared as he pulled back from his younger self. He reached out, gently brushing his thumb over Viktor's lips. He tapped them, his eyes softening. Viktor relaxed a little and nodded. The older Jayce leaned over and Viktor heard the younger Jayce's shocked breath as their lips met. The older Jayce was much more gentle with Viktor. Viktor's eyes slipped shut as he pressed into the kiss. He pulled back and lowered himself down next to the younger Jayce, whose face was flushed so red that he looked like he was going to pass out. Now that he was looking, he could see that the younger Jayce was bare from the waist down, yet his length still stood at attention. The older Jayce was yanking his own pants down.

Viktor looked back to the younger one. "Jayce? Could I have a kiss from you as well?" He asked quietly. The younger Jayce seemed surprised before hesitantly reaching up. He pulled Viktor down into a gentle kiss. Viktor pressed back against him before sighing against his lips. He pulled back and glanced over as the older Jayce's hands slipped into the waistband of his pants, sliding them down. Viktor felt his face flush a little as slick coated his thighs. The younger Jayce's eyes were blown wide as he stared at him. "Jayce. I would like another kiss."

"...Y-Yeah." The younger Jayce's voice was strangled as Viktor carefully straddled his chest. He blinked as the younger Jayce's hand instantly moved to support his knee and his eyes softened. "Hah!!" The younger Jayce whined and Viktor glanced back. He exhaled softly as he saw both their lengths pressed together, the older Jayce casting him a smile. Viktor turned to look back at the younger Jayce, who was tearing up from the pleasure. "V-Vik..." 

"I'm here, Jayce." Viktor assured him softly. He slid his hips forward until his folds were right in front of Jayce's lips. "Wait." The word was gentle, but sharp and the younger Jayce froze up. His mouth was parted and he was so close that Viktor could feel his shuddering breath. He reached down and slid his fingers through the younger Jayce's hair. "And what do you need to remember to do?" He prompted, wanting to make sure Jayce was paying attention. The younger Jayce's hands were already trembling on Viktor's legs. 

"...Breathe." His voice was barely a whisper and Viktor nodded. He watched him and reached out, rubbing his thumb over his cheek. Viktor nodded and the younger Jayce swallowed before taking a few deep breaths. Viktor carefully slid his hips forward until he was straddling the younger Jayce's face. A soft kiss was pressed to the back of his neck, accompanied by the scruffiness of a beard. Viktor arched his back, closed his eyes and let that tongue get to work. 

Chapter Text

Viktor's legs were trembling as he took a sip of hot chocolate. He sat on the coffee table in the living room, wrapped in nothing but a blanket as he stared out at the city of Piltover through his large window. The city was so extraordinarily quiet, yet so bright in the nighttime. He could see a few late night taxi carriages rumbling through the street below. "Are those horses?" The older Jayce's voice sounded a little baffled as he emerged from the hallway leading to the bedrooms. Viktor allowed himself a smile as the older man moved up to look out the window. "Oh, woah. Actual carriages? Do you get to ride in those?" He looked back at Viktor curiously. 

"It is what I prefer for longer distance. Seeing as my leg is not all too cooperative about walking." Viktor took another sip of his hot chocolate. "Especially not since I have met the both of you." The little addition did earn him a slight red flush on Jayce's cheeks. The other man was only in sweatpants, moving over to Viktor and leaning down so he could rest his hands on the table on either side of him. Viktor smiled and offered a sip. Jayce accepted it gladly, Viktor helping him. Jayce let out a soft sigh as the mug was pulled back. His golden eyes opened to meet Viktor's and he looked him over before leaning forward and pressing his lips to his forehead. The simple gesture always flustered Viktor more than anything they would do in bed. He glanced aside quietly. 

"How are your legs?" Jayce asked, his brow furrowing as he hovered his hand over his thigh. Viktor glanced up at him. "...Your hips then?" He drifted his hand up and gently pressed his fingers against one of them. Viktor's grip tightened on the mug. "Was he too rough?" Jayce's voice was much more worried. "Why didn't you say anything?" Viktor swallowed. 

"He is already so full of self-doubt, Jayce. If you had seen how badly he'd scared himself earlier when he realized he forgot the condom... He nearly had a panic attack right there." Viktor said softly. "And it was not unpleasant, his roughness. It... It was quite nice in the moment. It is just... the, eh..." 

"Consequences." Jayce said, raising a brow. Viktor gave an awkward shrug, averting his eyes as he took another sip from his mug. "Viktor..." 

"I do not want him to give up on this. He will improve, but I do not want him discouraged from doing so. Mistakes are bound to be made and he will learn from them." Viktor said quietly. "It is not as if I am incapable of them as well. And certainly not you." He gently pinched Jayce's nose and Jayce chuckled quietly. Viktor sighed. "He needs a little more time. Did you notice?" Viktor smiled a little. "He remembered to breathe." Jayce paused. 

"He did??"

The blatant shock in Jayce's voice nearly made Viktor choke on his hot chocolate and he had to quickly set it down as he covered his mouth. He managed to swallow before laughing, feeling Jayce's hand gently settled on his chest. The older man was smiling, though he did watch Viktor in slight concern. "Y-Yes. Yes, Jayce, h-he did." Viktor managed through soft coughs of laughter. He was smiling the whole time. Jayce carefully rubbed his back and Viktor relaxed a little. "Good gods, Jayce, you cannot do that to me..." 

"Sorry." Jayce didn't sound sorry at all and Viktor rolled his eyes. He blinked as Jayce's hands drew back. "...You really came out here in just a blanket?" His hands settled on his shoulders and stayed there, though his eyes couldn't seem to do the same. Viktor blinked. 

"...I am in my own home. With both of my partners who have seen me naked many, many times." Viktor stated in a teasing tone. Jayce's eyes softened on him. 

"So you did it on purpose." He accused playfully. Viktor smiled and Jayce leaned in, catching his lips in a gentle kiss. Viktor reached up, his fingers sliding through Jayce's beard. Jayce pulled back and the warmth in his eyes made Viktor squirm as he tipped his head into his hand. "...He told me something pretty interesting while you were cleaning yourself up in the bathroom, you know." Jayce looked him over and Viktor flushed as the other lowered himself to the ground, his large hands easily parting Viktor's legs and exposing him. "You told him I never made you squirt?" Instantly, Viktor's whole face went hot to his neck. "It's okay, I let him believe it." Jayce rested his cheek against Viktor's thigh. "But you know that's not true." 

"I... I just couldn't recall any times off the top of my head... in that moment..." Viktor fumbled with his words and Jayce gave a playful scoff. "I... I panicked. It was him that made me... do it first." Viktor trailed off and buried his face in his hand. "...I'm sorry." Jayce paused and reached up, gently pulling his arm away. 

"Don't apologize. I understand. But..." Jayce leaned in and Viktor shivered as he felt Jayce's lips ghost against his clit. "I was a little wounded, you know?" Viktor's thigh gave a small twitch and Jayce leaned his head against it again. He was waiting quietly. Viktor gave a soft scoff. 

"And you would like what? Reparations?" Viktor replied, rolling his eyes. Jayce hummed. 

"I accept all forms of payment..." He replied with a grin. "If they involve lips." Viktor gave a soft little laugh before it caught in his throat as said lips pressed dangerously high on his inner thigh. Viktor let out a soft breath. Finally, he slid his hips forward ever so slightly and Jayce's lips were there to meet his clit once again. "Mm, is this your 'reparation'?" Viktor lightly flicked his shoulder and Jayce laughed. He leaned forward and Viktor shivered as he felt Jayce's tongue lick long and deep between his folds. He didn't have anywhere near the eagerness or messiness of his younger counterpart. 

Viktor exhaled softly and laid himself back against the coffee table. The blanket pooled around him and he shifted his hips a little as Jayce's tongue carefully pushed inside of him. He could tell he was being slow and gentle on purpose, likely since it had been treated so roughly not even an hour prior. Viktor let his eyes slip shut, feeling Jayce's hands slip under his hips. His beard did tickle his skin, but he didn't mind it much. This Jayce was tidy and thorough. Every push of his tongue was exact and Viktor was left wound up in no time at all. Jayce pushed in deep, his breath fluttering against his skin before he ever so gently nipped at Viktor's clit. "Jayce!" Viktor gasped out his name softly and Jayce's tongue laved over his clit in a way that was just downright greedy.

Viktor's lips parted and his legs twitched. "Mm... Mmh!" He arched his back off the table a little bit as Jayce dragged his hips towards his face. Viktor let out a wordless, shaky noise as two of Jayce's fingers pushed inside with his tongue. As they thrusted, that knot in Viktor's stomach was growing tighter and tighter. "J-Jayce... Jayce, I-I am going to m-make a m-mess of- hah...! Jayce!! Jayce!" Viktor gasped out his name. Viktor felt the knot snap, but what he didn't expect was for Jayce's fingers to suddenly yank out. He slammed his hands over his mouth as he released, feeling lips suction over the area. Then, to his shock and shame, he heard Jayce swallow. Jayce gulped a few more times before pulling back, panting softly. 

Viktor could only stare at him in shock once he'd propped himself up again. Jayce met his eyes and a small smile crept across his face. "...Butterscotch." He murmured gently. Viktor felt the heat ignite along his face and shoulders again. 

"I cannot believe you just did that." Viktor whispered, unsure if he could get his voice higher than that. He had closed his legs and he paused as Jayce rested his arms on them, his head following to nestle down as he stared up at him with adoration in his golden eyes. Viktor felt that undeniable warmth and he let out a small sigh through his nose. Jayce seemed to know he didn't even have to defend himself. Viktor's fingers were already gently sliding through his hair. 

"...If you want to finish up your hot chocolate, I think there's a handsome young inventor who would like his partners back by his side when he wakes up." Jayce prompted gently. Viktor paused before scoffing. He scooped up the mug. 

"Mm, 'handsome' is high praise, don't you think?" Viktor teased lightly. A mischievous grin appeared on Jayce's face as he rested his cheek against his knee. The hot chocolate had cooled down and Viktor finished it easily, setting it aside. Jayce got to his feet with a grunt and Viktor paused. "Jayce." He spoke quietly and Jayce instantly stopped in his tracks, the playfulness in his eyes being replaced with a concern. "...If Hextech proves to be too much for the Arcane to handle... and I am forced to make a decision..." Viktor trailed off quietly, his eyes falling to the ground. 

"I'll go with you." Jayce's voice was soft, but it startled Viktor all the same. He glanced up at him with wide eyes. Jayce's own eyes were gentle. "Whichever world you choose. You saw how I live. You saw how damaged all my relationships are. You, him, and Mama are the only people that believe in me. That don't look at me with pity or fear. And Mama will kill me if I don't go with you." Jayce stared at Viktor with sunken shoulders and a weakened smile. "Mama says you’re the best thing that's ever happened to me and I need to make sure I hold on to you." Viktor instantly felt his ears go hot. Ximena had always been affectionate towards him, but he hadn't been sure if she was just like that or not. 

"Wherever you two end up going... I just want you to take me too." Jayce admitted softly. Viktor stared at him quietly. He held the blanket shut around himself before stretching up an arm. Jayce's eyes twinkled and he moved forward. He scooped his arms under Viktor and heaved him up. Viktor wrapped his arm around Jayce's neck and buried his cheek against his shoulder. He wasn't sure he could gather together any words, so he pressed his lips to Jayce's neck. "...Thank you." He smiled. "Let's go join our partner, okay?" 

Our partner.

Just the wording made Viktor feel giddy and spoiled, but in the best way. He was still smiling as Jayce disappeared down the hallway with him.

Chapter Text

"What the f-"

"Jayce."

"But what is-"

"Jayce. Do not!"

"But I..." The older Jayce's protest and confusion died in his throat as Heimerdinger climbed up to stand on one of the tables using a small step-up. The older Jayce gave the Yordle such a side-eyed look of disbelief that Viktor had to be the only mature one as the younger Jayce broke behind him. Viktor closed his eyes, a small smile pulling at his face as the younger Jayce let out the evilest snort before covering his face and moving away to muffle his laughter. Heimerdinger seemed less than amused by this, his ears flicking as he raised a brow before looking to the older Jayce again. The older Jayce had finally shut his mouth, but the disbelieving, wide look in his eyes remained. Heimerdinger's poro suddenly darted by the older Jayce's feet in a ball of fur and he swore. "Fuck!" 

Heimerdinger cleared his throat and the older Jayce stiffened, glancing up at him. "My name is Professor Cecil B. Heimerdinger. I am the mentor for both Viktor and your younger self. A Yordle." He stated, his hands folded behind his back as his ears flicked. "It is an honor to meet someone who has crossed from a world opposite to ours." Heimerdinger offered his hand and the older Jayce hesitated before reaching out and using two fingers to shake it. He tipped his head at the older Jayce and Viktor moved forward, lightly tapping his cane against his hip with a prompting look. 

"...Right. I'm sure you already know this, but my name is Jayce Talis. I, uh, I am 33 and I work part-time as a volunteer firefighter in the Piltover Fire Department. I am a blacksmith by trade." The older Jayce awkwardly fell quiet, clearly unsure of what else he could even say. When they'd brought him to the Academy, he'd been speechless at the mere sight of it. The architecture and the sight of scientists walking around with inventions in hand or following beside them had caused both Viktor and the younger Jayce to have to pull him along. They'd taken a carriage here, much to the awe of the older Jayce. He had been staring at Viktor almost sinfully when he'd put on his Academy uniform because he'd never seen him in it. 

"You both look good in that." He'd murmured it almost absentmindedly when he'd looked them over. He was in a nicer collared shirt and pants, though a few of the upper buttons were undone. As expected, people wanted to talk to him. And good gods, was it a nightmare trying to keep the older Jayce from talking to them too. Viktor sighed through his nose and focused on Heimerdinger. 

"My apologies, Professor. I told you before, his world is lacking of magic creatures." Viktor said, giving a quiet sigh. Heimerdinger nodded. The older Jayce had become distracted by the poro as it scurried around his feet, his eyes wide in shock.

If there was one thing that Viktor hadn't realized might be the death of him, it was the sight of both Jayces in the forge. The Talis Family Forge, to be exact. The older Jayce had been absolutely and utterly awestruck as he looked around it, the younger Jayce explaining how he was able to keep the forge through his connection with the Intersect. He glanced over at Viktor warmly and proudly when he said it, causing a slight burn on Viktor's cheeks. He'd been fine until they'd started working. It took less than an hour for them both to be stripped of their shirts and vests. 

Viktor's fingers were dug tight into his cane as he watched them move around. He was sitting on one of the tables. He was a little hot himself, but certainly not enough to undress. Not to mention he wasn't actually sure of it was from the temperature or not. Despite everything, he sat and he kept to himself. That was unusual for him when he was around the both of them and it certainly didn't take long for them to notice. "Viktor?" He nearly jumped out of his skin as the younger Jayce appeared in front of him, wiping a small hand rag across his neck and forehead. "You, uh... You've been quiet. If the heat is too much, you really shouldn't-" 

"No. No, it is... not that." Viktor replied quietly. He glanced off to the side again. "...It is not that." He instantly felt his face go hot as a different set of tanned muscles invaded his vision. The older Jayce sat back against the table Viktor sat on and smiled. He pushed his hair back out of his face as he looked Viktor up and down playfully.

"C'mon, Viktor. You've seen more of the both of us than this." He scolded teasingly. Instantly, Viktor's face went red to his ears and he glanced aside, scoffing a little. He could see the moment it connected in the younger Jayce's head, his eyes widening and his cheeks suddenly reddening. The older Jayce knelt down and glanced up for permission. Viktor stared for a moment before closing the kiss himself, though his movement was light. The older Jayce seemed to understand, opting for a much gentler kiss instead of chasing down a hungrier one. He smiled against Viktor's lips. "So we all get to go to a Frost Gala tonight? If this is how you feel about us now, can you imagine us in our nice suits?"

Before Viktor could answer, he gave a heavy shiver as the older Jayce placed his hand across his navel, sliding it down onto his thigh before letting his thumb rub in small, lazy circles over his clothed clit. "Mmh..." Viktor inhaled softly. The younger Jayce carefully took his cane and set it aside. "J-Jayce made our outfits..." He felt the older Jayce stop in surprise and he glanced up at his younger self. 

"Did you?" He questioned, a slightly proud gleam in his eye. It seemed to be all the encouragement the younger Jayce needed, instantly breaking into a smile and nodding. "They must be stunning then. And here I thought I'd never be excited for a huge event like this." He pressed his thumb against Viktor's swollen clit and Viktor trembled. A wet noise came from between his legs when he moved them. He shivered as the older Jayce carefully laid him down on the table and his fingers drew back to play with the buttons on his pants. He leaned down and pressed his lips to Viktor's neck. "What's allowed?" He whispered softly. "Anything?" He paused his fingers as Viktor gave a soft, shaky inhale. 

Viktor spooked a little as he felt a second, smoother pair of lips press to the other side of his neck and he gave a shiver. "Y-You both are insatiable." He murmured, though his body relaxed and he opened his legs just a little more for them. He felt... safe.

The Frost Gala was held at Salo's and the other man had stated that he would be accompanying Viktor around the party. Both Jayces had seemed sulky at that, but it was a mutual understand of why it had to be like this. Salo still had visible injuries from his impromptu 'vacation', all the other elites coming up and cooing over him in distress as he insisted he was fine. Viktor fiddled with the beads that trailed down from his corset like drops of blood. It was a mostly white suit with gold adornments, but the beading was what was most extraordinary, being scarlet and dripping. 

The younger Jayce had given himself a white suit with gold detailing while the older one had gotten a red suit with white detailing. It was a much darker red than the usual one Jayce used, but Viktor suspected that may have been by request. When Viktor had recited his poem, the Arcane had shimmered to life around them in the secluded room, but then to everyone's surprise, it hadn't left after. Instead, it became a moth. A bright yellow and pink moth with a slight illumination to its body. And it had immediately flitted over to Salo, who had greeted it warmly. "Hello, little light, I see you've made the correct choice in your favorite for the night."

Both Jayces had gone to the refreshments table while Viktor sat with Salo at one of the tables. It was more than obvious that Salo was itching to get up and go talk to people, but he simply didn't. Instead, he leaned his head to the side, gossiping quietly to the Arcane about the subpar quality of some of the ball gowns. Viktor's eyes trailed over to his partners, who'd been swarmed yet again by a curious group of partygoers. The older Jayce handled it with surprising grace for a man who'd never been in a ballroom before. The younger Jayce was still struggling. That was, until a young, excited voice called out his name and the younger Jayce lit up like the sun. 

He caught Caitlyn as she jumped at him, spinning her in a little circle before setting her down. She was in a fancy blouse and suit pants, which Viktor could only guess she'd snuck in, considering they didn't quite match the top. Viktor had tensed up a little, seeing the expression on the older Jayce's face as the crowd dispersed from them. "Oh dear, that's not a good face." Salo commented with a frown, Viktor glancing over. As always, it seemed nothing escaped the other man. Viktor gripped his cane and pushed himself to his feet. He made his way through the crowd, giving greetings and smiles where they were due, but his expression fully faded into concern when he reached the older Jayce. 

"Jayce." He whispered his name softly as he reached out to him. The older Jayce's hand was shaking as it met Viktor's. He looked scared. He looked terrified and he looked like he was in pain. "Jayce, please." Viktor quickly reached up and pulled him down so he could press a soft kiss to his forehead. The older Jayce exhaled shakily. He glanced over. The younger Jayce had Caitlyn facing away from them, but he kept glancing over her shoulder at them, likely to see if his counterpart was okay. He furrowed his brow and Viktor quickly shook his head. He focused back on the older Jayce. "We can leave. We can leave, if you'd like." He said quickly, his voice hushed. 

"N-No." The older Jayce's voice was strangled. "No, I wouldn't want to ruin your evening." Viktor instantly frowned. 

"I care more about you than I do some fancy party." He stated scoldingly. The older Jayce's eyes softened on him and he smiled just for a moment before it crashed down as Caitlyn's shocked, fascinated voice erupted from next to them, making him flinch. 

"Jayce??"

Chapter Text

The sharp inhale that the older Jayce took sounded downright painful. Viktor's shoulders sank and he opened his mouth, but a sudden rush of cold swept over him, stalling his voice in his throat. His eyes widened and he turned, his adrenaline suddenly spiking beneath his skin. Salo had been watching them, but upon seeing Viktor's state, he furrowed his brow and straightened up in his chair. Every inch of Viktor was screaming that something was wrong and Salo startled as the Arcane suddenly fluttered to his other shoulder, where a staff member had been approaching him, likely to tell him something. At least...

"Allira!!" Viktor yelled out in time for the staff member to pull out a scrap revolver and take aim. The gunshot that followed was far too loud to... only be one. Viktor stumbled back, feeling the older Jayce catch him as several Enforcers suddenly collapsed around the area, a panic soon erupting among the guests. They rushed towards the exits, but the remaining Enforcers all pulled out the same jackknifed weapons and herded the elites backwards. Viktor was breathing shakily. In front of him, Salo's eyes were wide, but he was alive. The man that had fired on him was collapsed on the floor. 

Salo blinked a couple times in shock. "Oh... well." He managed quietly, his brow furrowed. He reached out and plucked up the wine glass that had been sitting untouched next to him. He took a long sip and rested his head against his hand. "There goes that rug, I suppose." He'd told Viktor he wouldn't drink tonight, but he had to keep a glass near him for appearance. Now it seemed like he actually needed it. He reached out and gently scooped the limp-looking moth from the arm of the chair. "Did you ricochet that bullet, little light?" The moth gave the tiniest flutter and Salo gave a small, appreciative smile. 

He finally stood and strode forward, taking another long sip. "Councilor!" The younger Jayce instantly moved to Salo with wide eyes and a warning hiss. Salo gave dramatic eye roll as he turned to him. 

"I appreciate the concern, young Talis, but as the host of this gala and the owner of this home, I feel I have more of a right to know what's going on than anyone." Salo stated matter-of-factly, pressing his fingers to Jayce's chest in slight scolding. The younger Jayce hesitated before backing up. Salo was the only one walking calm against the crowd. The guests were most huddled in small groups, some on the floor. When Salo emerged from the front, he was seen stopping. "Ah, Madam Maggot. To what do I owe such a gruesome pleasure?" Viktor knew that Salo had a mean sneer when he wanted to, but he usually only ever spoke with annoyance instead of downright malice. That Piltover elite disdain he had was easily weaponized if Salo wanted it to be.

"You were supposed to be one of these damn bodies. It was personally requested." A deeper, yet indignant woman's voice snapped back at him. "And it's fucking Margot, you weaselly bastard. Peacocking around in your fancy fabrics and jewelry." 

"This is one of my more casual suits. But I suppose incessant little larvae wouldn't know much about that, would they?" Salo stated scaldingly. Viktor felt like Salo really was going to get himself shot. 

"Hah! Calling me a larvae when you're the one who keeps skirting death like some kind of cockroach!" The woman hissed and Salo rolled his eyes, waving dismissively at her. Viktor couldn't see the woman from where he was, but he imagined that she didn't look too pleased right then. "You should scuttle on back into the crowd before I have someone a little more competent shoot that snotty face of yours all over the floor." 

"Well, you and your lackeys have already cemented that I can never use this rug again." Salo stated flatly. "And my question somehow remains unanswered. You invaded my home, Margot, I feel I deserve to know why." He said, crossing his arms and tipping his head to the side. The woman was heard letting out a scoff of disbelief. "Oh, don't give me that look. Money is the obvious answer and I'm not a simple-minded man." Salo's tone became firm. "Why?" 

"I'm just escorting." Margot replied flatly.

"Oh, yes, you are quite good at that, aren't you?" Salo snarked back with a curled lip. 

"You have no room to talk." 

"I happen to have many rooms for such a thing. I can't possibly be the escort when all of them make their way to me." Salo stated dismissively, waving his hand. "And, with me, they already know what they're getting. Both with my attitude... and my age." There was a moment of silence before Margot spoke again in a barely hushed hiss.

"...If you hadn't brought me all that business before, I swear-" 

"Yes, yes, I would be nothing but another body on the floor. A stain on the wall. A pile of bloody clothes. Save it, Madam, I've heard all those threats before." Salo sighed heavily. "I take it we are not leaving until your guest or guests get what they came for?" When Margot gave an affirmation, Salo pinched the bridge of his nose before turning away and downing the rest of his wine glass. He turned away from her and made his way back over to Viktor. The Arcane had lost most of its glow and it laid limp against his breast pocket, resembling a pin. Salo reached up and guided it into his hand before holding it out to Viktor, who took it. 

"My apologies, Allira. Undoubtedly, it is me they are here for." Viktor whispered quietly. He glanced over and he could see Caitlyn pressing close to the younger Jayce's side, her brow furrowed and her eyes troubled. Cassandra was with them, seeming to be checking on them both. The older Jayce refused to look at them and his hold was shaky on Viktor. Salo glanced up at him in slight concern and the older Jayce huffed out a weak laugh. 

"You would have been blown to pieces in my world with that kind of lip." The older Jayce commented quietly. Salo rolled his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest as the empty glass dangled between his fingers. 

"Oh, please, don't I know it." He replied. "Honestly, I'm pleasantly surprised I'm not dead in this one. And that certainly isn't for lack of outside forces trying." He lifted the glass and sighed heavily as he seemed to remember that it was empty. "Do excuse me, I'm going to need much more wine if this is how the night is looking to go." As he moved away, someone else took his place. 

"Hey. Are you both okay?" The younger Jayce sounded worried sick as he reached out to both of them. Viktor moved to rest his cheek against his hand almost immediately, but the older Jayce visibly flinched away when the younger Jayce's fingers brushed his. At that, the younger Jayce stiffened up and Viktor could see the instant panic in his eyes. The older Jayce quickly seemed to compose himself and glanced over. "I-I'm s-"

"I'm sorry." The older Jayce interrupted his younger counterpart quickly. "I'm just overwhelmed. You didn't do anything wrong." The younger Jayce relaxed just a little before stepping forward and pulling himself into a tight hug. The older Jayce seemed startled for a moment before hugging him back. He pulled away and turned, reaching out to Viktor. "Please stay close. If all this is because someone wants you again, we have to keep you safe." He reached out and Viktor felt his face flush a little as he moved over to them, both Jayces on either side of him. The younger one stretched his hand out to the moth worriedly. The Arcane nudged his fingers before crawling onto them. 

"It likely exhausted itself trying to protect Allira in such a small form." Viktor murmured. The younger Jayce frowned before reaching into his breast pocket. 

"...Do not tell Cassandra that Caitlyn or I have these." He said quickly, pulling out a few pieces of gummy fruit candy. Viktor blinked in surprise before a smile pulled at his lips, followed by a small laugh. The older Jayce looked slightly nostalgic as he watched him. The younger Jayce placed the candy in his hand and guided the Arcane to them. After a moment, the moth's wings fluttered and it crawled onto the candy eagerly, making both of the Jayces smile. Viktor's smile was much shorter-lived. 

He had a good idea of who was here and it churned his stomach to know that all these people were potentially in danger because of him.

Because he was an Intersect.

Because he was the Intersect.

Viktor squeezed his eyes shut. "Viktor?" The younger Jayce's fingers lightly nudged his and Viktor gratefully took his hand, giving it a squeeze. "It's that man from before again?? The old Intersect?" The older Jayce paused as he finally seemed to understand what they were talking about. 

"The one Vander told you about." He muttered, glancing around the room like he wasn't sure if he'd actually catch Silco standing among them. Viktor felt like it would have been fairly obvious if he was. Everyone flinched as the music playing through hidden speakers came to a halt and it was eerily quiet. Viktor felt a shiver go through him as that calm voice began to speak. It wasn't the voice that unnerved him, but rather the choice of poem it was choosing to recite. 

Vander's favorite poem.

"Nature's first green is gold, Her hardest hue to hold." Silco's voice was quiet and yet Viktor had never felt more shaken. There was a bitterness and anger weaved into the words when Silco spoke them, despite his calm tone. It was nothing like the forlorn and saddened way Vander had recited it, like he was trying to hold onto the remnants of a good memory. "Then leaf subsides to leaf-" Silco spoke the poem like it was poison in his mouth. "So dawn goes down to day. Nothing..." It was quiet for a moment. "Nothing gold can stay." The speakers clicked off, but the music didn't resume. The air around them felt activated and raw.

The Arcane's moth form had grown continuously brighter and brighter throughout the poem, but its coloring had darkened. It went from a vibrant pink-yellow to a dreary grey-black. Viktor's shoulders sank as he watched it. "Viktor." Silco's voice suddenly echoed through the speakers again and Viktor inhaled sharply. "I'm tired of these games. Everyone I sent to fetch you proved incompetent. It has become frustrating, but I suppose the old saying still holds. 'If you want something done right, you should just do it yourself.' I believe you know where I am. And I believe you should know what to do next without me asking." The speakers clicked off again and Viktor's legs felt even more unsteady than usual. He'd just been in that room not even an hour ago. 

"We'll go with you." The younger Jayce spoke instantly and Viktor glanced over at him in doubt and worry. Those golden brown eyes were unnerved, flicking aside before moving back again. "I-I mean, he didn't say you had to go alone. H-He didn't say it." He clarified quickly. Viktor paused as the older Jayce spoke. 

"And I don't think you going there alone is what any of the three of us-" He paused as the Arcane fluttered its tiny wings and hopped in place. "-any of the four of us want." He corrected quietly. Viktor's fingers were trembling as he held the younger Jayce's hand. He leaned forward and buried his face against the older Jayce's arm. 

"Please. If there is danger, you both must leave. It's me he wants for whatever reason." Viktor muttered. As he expected, both Jayces instantly shot the idea down. Viktor squeezed his eyes shut and let out a weak scoff. "So stubborn, the both of you..." 

Chapter Text

The footsteps behind Viktor fell in tandem down the extravagant hallway and he almost felt amused, despite the situation. The tap of his cane was far too loud for what it was. Viktor was stiff as he walked, trying harder and harder to keep himself together. It didn't help that he could already smell that polluted water. It made him tremble, knowing this man- Silco was able to manipulate the very reality around them. However dire the situation, Viktor couldn't help the ever so slight breath of laughter that left him when he saw the half-flooded hallway in front of him. 

Gods, Salo was going to lose his mind. 

Before he could reach the water, one set of footsteps stopped behind him. The second soon followed. Viktor stopped last, turning to look before weakening as he saw the older Jayce trying to calm down his younger counterpart. The younger Jayce was beyond pale, his eyes squeezed shut. Viktor's shoulders sank and he turned, moving back towards him. "...Vik." The younger Jayce sounded terrified for him. Viktor blinked as the younger one reached out to him, his trembling fingertips on his shoulders. Before he could ask permission, Viktor was already moving forward, the older Jayce taking his cane for him as Viktor wrapped the younger Jayce in a tight hug. The other man's hug was tight and warm. "What's going to happen to you?? What does he want with you??" 

His voice was so strained that some of his words didn't even pass his breath. It didn't take a genius to figure them out though. "I don't know, Jayce. Not much beyond he needs me because I am an Intersect." Viktor admitted softly, his cheek pressed against his chest. He could hear how fast his heart was racing. 

"Hey. Hey." The older Jayce spoke, moving forward and sliding his hand into his younger self's hair, his brow furrowed in worry. The younger one glanced up at him with tearful eyes. "Breathe, okay?" Viktor gave a small chuckle. 

"Believe me, he rarely ever listens to that." He teased gently. The younger Jayce let out a weak, yet indignant scoff. His mouth had quirked though. Viktor glanced up at him warmly. The younger Jayce finally let out a weak exhale and shook his head, burying it against Viktor's head. 

"We're both worried." The older Jayce seemed to admit, glancing down at Viktor as he continued to soothe his younger counterpart. "This is the man that's been trying to get you. Hired people to abduct you straight from my apartment." He turned his head away. "...He's trying to get Ekko too, isn't he?" Viktor felt his heart sink at that and he nodded. 

"And I wish to keep this man far from that boy." Viktor said softly. He turned to look back down the hallway at the rippling, polluted water. It brought a suffocating feeling to the air. They all startled as they heard small footsteps running from behind them.

"Oh!" Caitlyn yelped as she took the corner too hard and slammed into the wall as her dress shoes slid. "Ack!" The younger Jayce quickly released Viktor, moving back to Caitlyn as she shook her head and immediately covered her nose. "Oh, that is horrid!!" She exclaimed in a muffled voice. 

"Cait!! What are you doing over here?!" The younger Jayce reached her and knelt down. "You have to go back and stay with your-" 

"No! No, no, my friends are in danger!" Caitlyn instantly interrupted, shooting him a firm look. The younger Jayce looked taken back and Caitlyn squinted at him. "Were you crying?" She yelped as he flicked her shoulder. "Ow!" She squeaked as the younger Jayce scooped her up, holding her like a fussy cat. "Jayce!! Unhand me!" She kicked her legs. "I want to help too!! I did not just sneak away from that bizarre bolt-faced woman just for you to scruff me like some kind of kitten!! Unhand me this instant!" 

"Jayce, we cannot just let her run back now." Viktor insisted, limping forward. "What if they punish her??" He reached out and gently tugged his arm so Caitlyn would be lowered to the floor. She whipped around, clearly disgruntled, but all her fight left the moment she saw the younger Jayce's face and his trembling hand as it drew back from her. 

"Oh, you were crying." Caitlyn sounded more than dismayed as she whispered it to herself. She quickly moved forward and hopped up, the younger Jayce grunting as Caitlyn pulled him down to her height in a hug, her arms around his neck. He finally accepted it and hiccuped quietly. She looked over at Viktor. "What does this mystery man want with you?? An Intersect that is little more than a month from Frosting cannot be of much use, can it?" Viktor shook his head. 

"I am not sure, Miss Caitlyn. I only know that this man knows far more about it than any of us. He would not have done this if he didn't." Viktor said, frowning. Caitlyn furrowed her brow before her eyes drifted past him and went wide again. She loosened her grip on the younger Jayce and he glanced up with teary eyes, clearly worried. Viktor looked back at the older Jayce, who was frozen like a deer in headlights. His eyes were wide and his body was locked up. He somehow looked worse than the younger Jayce. Viktor looked back to Caitlyn as she quickly gripped his sleeve. Her feet were already quietly shuffling. She would go to take a step forward, but never fully commit, only taking a step back again. "Miss Caitlyn-" 

"Would this be my last such chance to meet him officially?" She whispered, glancing over at Viktor. "If this Jayce is anything like the one I know, he'll likely get himself quite hurt trying to protect you. Can I not meet him before they both do something reckless?" Viktor paused before scoffing a little.

"You say, as if you would not also do something reckless." He stated, causing an offended little squawk from her. He held up his hand, causing her to pause. He glanced over her at the younger Jayce, who nodded too. Viktor turned and made his way over to the older Jayce, who had turned his head away. "...Jayce." Viktor whispered his name to him and the older one shook his head. "Jayce, she wants to meet you." 

"She can see me, can't she?" The older Jayce's voice was strangled. "She doesn't need to get any closer." 

"Just like your younger counterpart, they both never 'need' to do anything. They do it because they want to." Viktor said, his tone soft and chiding. He reached up, sliding his fingers along Jayce's bearded jawline. He tipped his head into Viktor's hand, his eyes still squeezed shut. "Whether she gets my permission or not, she'll be coming over here one way or another." It was more of a warning than anything. "But she wishes to try this properly first. She wants to meet you. She wants to speak to you. And, by the gods, if she doesn't get what she wants..." Viktor rolled his eyes. "Truly an upperclass family, only child that girl is." 

Jayce glanced at him uncertainly. Viktor's gaze softened and he stepped into his space a little more. "I know your relationship with her is strained, at best. But this one is different. This world. This Caitlyn. You haven't done anything to her." Viktor insisted quietly. Jayce let out a heavy sigh through his nose. "...He'll only be able to hold her back for another minute or so. Will you be alright?" Viktor asked softly. As he spoke, he heard the younger Jayce let out a yelp before the footsteps started. The older one nodded and Viktor smiled, taking a step back. "Catch her then." 

And he really did have to. The older Jayce was nearly bowled over as Caitlyn reached out, poking at his face and beard with wide eyes. "You have wrinkles!" She exclaimed. "Goodness, you look like my Jayce after he spent a week awake on one of his projects or the day after Viktor and him-" 

"CAIT." The younger Jayce instantly blurted out her name and the young girl jumped. 

"Am I wrong?? Look at how scruffy and disheveled he is!" She exclaimed. The older Jayce finally seemed to snap out of his stupor and gave a weak scoff. 

"Thanks for that." He stated flatly. 

"Not a problem." Caitlyn replied, moving back and giving a small, dramatized bow. She leaned up to look at him again, practically bouncing on her toes. "My name is Caitlyn Kiramman-" 

"Lady Caitlyn Kiramman." Viktor interjected, earning himself a deadly glare from the young girl. 

"Do not make me become very unladylike very quickly." She warned, Viktor raising a hand in surrender as his mouth quirked. Caitlyn turned and stretched out her hand to the older Jayce. He hesitated before reaching out and shaking it, causing her to scoff. "Oh, come on now! You should have a far firmer grip than that if you are still a blacksmith as they say!" She scolded. The older Jayce seemed surprised. Caitlyn lit up a little as his grip visibly tightened. "Good then! It is nice to meet you! Both Viktor and my Jayce spoke of you very often!" 

"Oh, did they?" The older Jayce seemed surprised by that and Caitlyn gave a snort, rolling her eyes dramatically. 

"Oh my goodness, you have no idea." She groaned. Instantly, the younger Jayce whined her name, clearly embarrassed as he moved forward. His hand seemed to seek out Viktor's and Viktor quickly intertwined their fingers, knowing that it would help calm him down. He felt a little embarrassed too, but this Caitlyn and this Jayce had never held back on their thoughts. Raised together, after all. "Viktor gets so very mushy when he speaks of you, like he's some yearning wife talking about a long-lost lover who is soon to return from war!" Viktor finally felt his face flush completely. He had known that Caitlyn getting into romance novels had been a bad sign. "And Jayce speaks of you even more strangely-" 

"Please don't! Cait!!" The younger Jayce blurted the words out, hiding his face in his hand. Caitlyn jumped before puffing out her cheeks and giving a heavy sigh. 

"Anyway, I wanted to officially meet you before we head towards... whatever that is." Caitlyn wrinkled her nose as she gestured at the polluted water filling the hallway ahead of them. She squinted up at the older Jayce once she had finished speaking. She'd clearly been expecting him to say something, but when he only nodded, she blinked a few times. "...You are so much quieter than my Jayce. I didn't think it possible that there was a version of him that could be!" She exclaimed, tipping her head and tapping her cheek as she crossed her other arm over her chest. The older Jayce opened his mouth to respond, but Caitlyn was already hopping past him, splashing ahead into the dark water. "Ugh, wet socks." She muttered. "Disgusting. Horrid. Ew." 

The younger Jayce quickly moved after her and wrinkled his nose as the water rose above his shins. "Oh, this is terrible." He stated flatly.

"It is!" Caitlyn agreed, though their sloshing suggested the water wasn't deterring either of them. Viktor stared after them before looking back to the older Jayce. He reached out and placed a hand on his arm. 

"...She's lively." Jayce finally commented, sounding both relieved and shaken. "She talks so much faster and so much louder." Viktor gave a quiet snort as he nodded. 

"It gets worse the longer you know her, don't worry." He said casually. That seemed to finally pull a weak laugh out of Jayce. He sighed. 

"They're nothing alike, Viktor." He finally said. Viktor paused as he glanced up at Jayce. "I was never this close to her. We were cordial and we cared for each other, but she never threw herself at me like that. She never wanted to roughhouse or build pillow forts. She would just sit away and read. Sometimes we would go walking." Jayce turned as Viktor took his hand, starting to lead him forward into the water. Viktor kept a tight grip on his hand, trying not to focus too hard on the water and more on Jayce's words. "I... I don't understand. Our relationship here is so..." 

"Energetic." Viktor said, glancing back at him. "You two bounce off of each other in a way that would've given myself grey hair if I were not already used to the bizarreness that comes with being an Intersect. And I still do not know where one of my oven mitts has gone ever since the both of them insisted on incorporating it into one of their forts." That got another laugh out of Jayce. "Is it... bad that they are nothing alike?"

They could both hear Caitlyn and the younger Jayce's voice echoing from ahead, both of them having disappeared around the corner. Viktor exhaled softly. The hallway around them was warping. It shouldn't have been echoing like that. Pillars were becoming rock. Lanterns along the walls. 

Viktor felt the older Jayce's hand tighten on his as they both moved forward through the mineshaft tunnel, also finally getting a vague answer to his question. "I don't know."

Chapter Text

The splashing of their footsteps through the polluted water was downright deafening. Up ahead, Caitlyn could be heard grumbling protests as the younger Jayce carried her on his back. The walls had long shifted from tile to jagged rock. They were in a cave. They were in the mines. Somewhere nearby, a canary started to sing. Then another. Then another. A heavy feeling gripped the air and Viktor could hear the older Jayce's breathing start to constrict. He wasn't used to this. The younger Jayce and Caitlyn at least were familiar with the mines of Zaun, but not the older Jayce. Viktor stopped and turned back to the older Jayce, his shoulders visibly tight with worry. 

The older Jayce paused and Viktor moved back to him, reaching out. "M'fine. Just not used to the..." The older Jayce vaguely gestured. "To the anything." Viktor's shoulders sank and he blinked as the older Jayce pulled him into a hug, burying his nose in his hair. "...Sorry about your gala, Viktor. Just our luck that it's the one I attend, huh?" He joked weakly and Viktor gave the smallest snort in response as he reached up and hugged him back. When they pulled away, Viktor saw a glow out of the corner of his eye. Yellow and pink. But when he looked, he didn't see the Arcane's little moth form anywhere.

They all continued through the cavern and the younger Jayce finally set Caitlyn down once the ground had sloped upwards out of the water. They were inside a mineshaft. From up ahead, Viktor could see a door. It was so laughably out of place, yet so recognizable that it was downright uncanny. The room that he recited his poem in for the Frost Gala. He'd just been here not even two hours ago. He could see light flickering beneath the door. A lantern instead of the fancy chandelier that he knew adorned the room. The older Jayce moved forward and Viktor startled a little as he was guided behind him.

"If Silco wants me, there is not much to be done, Jayce." Viktor said, his accented voice seeming to carry along the walls. Both Jayces looked back at him in dismay and it broke his heart. "None of you would know the rumors of this man in Zaun. A skilled knife wielder. A man who will stop at nothing. He has survived attacks from men twice as big as the two of you." Viktor's gaze flicked between the Jayces before falling to the floor. "He has killed bigger men." The younger Jayce looked terrified. He was trying to hide it, but his brave face was full of cracks. He was scared. The older Jayce, to his credit, simply looked nervous. Uncertain. Finally, those golden-brown eyes moved back to him. 

"What can we do, Viktor? What will he do to you??" He finally asked, his brow furrowing.  Viktor could feel his heart pounding and another glow out of the corner of his eye told him that the Arcane was here and it was anxious. He nearly jumped out of his skin as Caitlyn attached herself to his side. 

"I am still quite wriggly and very fast! If anything happens, I could fetch help! They certainly wouldn't be able to catch me." She declared matter-of-factly. "And if they do, it will not be for long." Viktor gave a small sigh and a weak smile. He was glad that they were all aware that there was no way Silco was alone in that room. Both Jayces stood on either side of the door as Caitlyn helped Viktor approach it. The Arcane's out-of-view fluttering was only becoming more and more erratic. Viktor reached up and knocked. Once. Twice. He didn't get to knock a third time before the door was opening. He wasn't sure what it was that he was looking at. Just that it was moving fast and with ill intent. A glowing vial of sickly neon green. The gleam of a needle. A syringe. Viktor blinked. 

He was in the older Jayce's apartment. 

He was...

Viktor's brow slowly furrowed as he stared at the bedroom. This room should've been comforting to him. It was. He loved this room. But... He wasn't supposed to be here. Not yet. And not without Jayce. And not with-

"Viktor?" Caitlyn's voice was soft and hushed, her eyes wide as she stared around. "...Where have we gone?" Viktor could only stare down at the young teen for a moment as she instantly took off to explore, her eyes curious. He wasn't even sure what to say. Tell her to be careful?? Tell her to not touch anything? Could he even speak at all?? He didn't know. Caitlyn stopped in front of a picture frame on the dresser and Viktor knew which one that was. Him and the older Jayce, photographed by Ximena. Caitlyn had fallen quiet before turning back to him. "...The other world." 

"The other world." Viktor agreed, his voice barely a whisper. He wondered how close he looked to passing out. It must've been bad because Caitlyn immediately made her way back to him, grabbing his hand and pulling him over to the bed before taking his shoulders and forcing him to sit. Any other time, he likely would've scolded her, but the moment he was sitting, he felt the tears start to burn in his eyes, his cane falling from his fingers. The bedroom door was cracked open, but Caitlyn caught the cane before it could hit the ground. Viktor glanced up at her, opening his mouth before he heard the apartment door open and his teary eyes went wide. 

"Yes, of course. I'm at his apartment now. The door was still locked and there's no sign of him." The older Caitlyn sounded exhausted and anxious. "I just don't know where he could be. What if he's done it this time?? I can't even locate that man he's been about with. The vagrant."

"Vagrant??" The younger Caitlyn whispered, sounding both shocked and offended on Viktor's behalf. Viktor glanced over at her. Cait. Scatterminded, yet so very sharp. Energetic and dramatic. Nothing like the serious, almost dulled tone he heard outside the door. It sounded like a phone call. Viktor held up a hand and Cait fell quiet, though she puffed out her cheeks a little in displeasure as Caitlyn continued to speak outside. 

"-elling you. No one has heard from him in days. His supervisor at the station could only tell me that he took a week's worth of vacation time. But if he did not even tell his own mother where he was going, I fear the worst." The worry in her tired voice almost annoyed Viktor as he stared over at the door. He paused as Cait gripped his arm, her other hand tight on his cane. "No, no, I fear that he may have eloped with that man. The tent city would never let an officer that far in. If that vagrant took Jayce to go live with him out in the middle of nowhere-" Caitlyn cut off with a soft swear of frustration. 

"What is the matter?" Cait whispered to Viktor, her eyes wide. Viktor glanced at her before looking back at the door again. A lot of things were the matter. He'd switched over too early. He'd switched over with her and not either of the Jayces. He was separated from his lovers, not to mention his lovers were likely in danger. Viktor inhaled shakily before his eyes widened as he heard footsteps approaching. He took his cane and gestured to the bathroom, Cait looking back at him in dismay. 

"She knows me, Miss Caitlyn, she does not know you." Viktor whispered. Cait clenched her fists before turning and hurrying away, the bathroom door shutting just as the bedroom one opened. 

"And I-" Caitlyn stopped in open-mouthed shock when she saw him. He heard someone on the other end of her phone say her name before she hung up and shoved it into her pocket. "Freeze!" Caitlyn, to his shock, pulled out her firearm, aiming it directly at him. Viktor stared at her with wide eyes. He knew how it looked. The so-called vagrant sitting alone in Jayce's locked apartment, wearing a far too fancy outfit with soaked legs and shoes. Gods, he didn't even blame Caitlyn for that reaction. He would've been baffled too. However, what he could blame Caitlyn for was the look of anger in her eyes. So much for officers being impartial. 

Of course, he'd known that was bullshit just by the simple fact of human nature. 

He hesitated before raising his hands on either side of his head, remaining quiet. "Where is Jayce??" Caitlyn demanded, refusing to move yet as she eyed him suspiciously. Viktor glanced up at her, but he kept his mouth shut. That only seemed to ruffle Caitlyn even more. "Talk!" 

"What do you want me to say, Officer?" Viktor spoke weakly. He didn't even know if he could spare the focus for this interaction alone. His lovers were stuck in the other world. Without him. With Silco. Were they okay?? He didn't know. He didn't know. His hands lowered to fold in front of him and he squeezed his eyes shut. He heard Caitlyn swear under her breath. 

"Where is he??" Caitlyn could barely seem to croak out the words. "Is he-" 

"Not dead, no. He has been happy. Simply worried for me." Viktor interrupted, wanting to at least soothe her nerves about one thing. And it worked. He could tell she was relieved about that, but then her distrust and disbelief crept in. 

"Then where is he?" 

Viktor stared at her before his shoulders sank and he turned his head aside. "I do not think I have a proper answer to that, Officer." 

"But you know where he is??" 

"Yes." Viktor knew the silence that followed his answer wasn't anything good and the footsteps approaching him likely weren't any better. 

"You are actively interfering with a Missing Persons case, in which you are one of the top suspects." Caitlyn stated firmly and coldly. Viktor paused before jumping as Caitlyn holstered her gun and gestured. "Get up." Viktor blinked before slowly standing, having to use his cane. To his shock, Caitlyn pulled out handcuffs. "Viktor, you are under arrest for obstruction of justice and failure to provide valuable information pertaining to a missing person." As she clicked them on, her voice droned out as he focused on the door, feeling panic deep in his chest. Cait was still there. 

Both of his Jayces were still there.

Why was he here??

Caitlyn didn't even have a chance to finish reading him his rights before he hit the ground, his consciousness slipping away.