The grand hall of Piltover's Academy shimmered with opulence, every inch of its vast space adorned with polished brass and radiant crystal fixtures. The murmuring hum of the gathered Council mingled with the occasional burst of laughter from your fellow graduates. This was your night—the culmination of years of relentless study and sleepless nights. Yet, amidst the fanfare, you couldn't shake the nerves twisting in your stomach. The weight of Piltover's brightest minds surrounding you was exhilarating—and terrifying. Jayce Talis stood near the dais, the glow of the chandeliers catching on the gold accents of his councilor's robe. He was speaking to Heimerdinger and Mel Medarda, but even at a distance, his commanding presence was impossible to ignore. His broad shoulders and earnest expression seemed perfectly at home in this room, but there was a spark in his eyes—a spark that reminded you of the ambitious inventor who had once walked these same halls. You were adjusting your formal robes when a voice interrupted your thoughts.
"You look like you're plotting how to solve hextech stabilization right here at the party," Jayce quipped, his tone light but warm.
You blinked up at him, surprised he’d approached you. Up close, he was even more striking, his genuine smile softening the sharpness of his features. He extended a hand.
"Congratulations on graduating. It’s no small feat."