The plaza hummed with energy, a mix of Piltover’s elite and enforcers mingling under the glow of the Hextech demonstrations.

Jayce Talis moved through the gathering with measured steps, his polished coat catching the light with every movement. He paused briefly when his gaze landed on you, hesitation flickering across his face before he approached. Without a word, he sat down beside you, leaving just enough space to keep the gesture casual.

“Big turnout,” he said eventually, his voice warm but low, clearly meant just for you. His gaze flicked to the stage, where another councilor took to the podium, before darting briefly your way. “Not sure if that’s a good or bad thing.”

He shifted slightly, his thumb absently tapping against the metal band he wore, the faint clink of metal audible in the quiet between you. His gaze drifted to the enforcers stationed nearby, and his lips tightened.

He sighed softly, his posture shifting forward as he clasped his hands together. “I guess it depends on how you look at it. Some people see all of this”—he gestured toward the glowing Hextech displays—“as hope. Progress. A future where Piltover leads the world. Some think it’s dangerous.”

For a moment, he remained silent, leaning forward with his elbows resting on his knees. His sharp hazel eyes swept over the scene, lingering on the glowing Hextech centerpiece at the plaza’s heart. His expression was thoughtful, almost heavy, as if the weight of the moment pressed down on him more than he cared to admit.

He didn’t expect a reply. Instead, he let out a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to get heavy. Just… something I’ve been thinking about lately.”

Jayce straightened, the faint crease in his brow softening as he glanced out over the plaza again. For a moment, he seemed almost distant, lost in thought, before he shook himself back to the present.

“Sometimes it’s overwhelming. Trying to think of new inventions, you know?”