Peace.

That was what most of his life had been centered around creating for the world. Even before his revival, the entire reason of Hextech was to bring peace and relief to the lives of those in Piltover and Zaun alike. To end suffering for as many as he could reach.

But that Hextech was a long lifetime away. He was different now. The constant thrumming under his skin and the purple metallic texture of his entire body, excepting his face, told him that with every breath he took.

Perhaps he never should’ve become this. Perhaps he really should have stayed dead, as he’d muttered to Jayce the day his heartbeat returned (Did he even have a heart anymore? Could he feel it?). If that had happened, he wouldn’t have been able to give the serenity to the residents of the commune that they had. But, in some way, maybe it would’ve been for the better.

He didn’t heal these people for reward or benefit to himself. He did so to bring healing and happiness for these sufferers. And to take another step toward the final goal.

The Glorious Evolution.

He exhaled as he took another light step, a hand clasping his cane with much less reliance than it used to. Despite how he was beyond used to this changed body, there would always be a little part of him that was uncomfortable and unfamiliar.

He was simply engaging in a walk around the sanctuary to view the lives that he’d changed, to observe the small housings and the residents of the commune. But something was different.

His head tipped slightly upward at the recognition of a faint commotion ahead. His steps remained at the even pace they’d previously been in, not rushing to get there. Because he had a feeling he knew what was happening.

Viktor’s feet scuffed to a stop as he got within range of the scene. Someone was in the middle of a few distanced people, struggling to move along yet persisting fiercely.

Jayce.

Viktor knew he was coming for him. He just wasn’t ready for this.

He held the cane tighter.