So will I. [viktor answers, aware the moment after is lingering with something. he's had moments of sentiment before, rarely with heimendinger and sky, more often with jayce, but they aren't really like this. if he had to put a finger on it he'd say it reminds him of those first hours with jayce, the tentative hope he let bud when jayce would treat him like an equal with such ease.

yes, like that in some way, tentative or hopeful or both. new, maybe that's it, the precipice of something he doesn't want to dissect and kill before it has room to grow.

when pal's hand moves but doesn't leave he nearly finds himself laughing, that sometimes it is that easy. he swallows it, looking ahead with a warmth to his smile, letting the massive gem of the red catch his gaze as he's sure it does most eyes even idly passing through.]

Well, I'd rather toast it when we have better news. [he answers, though he offers,] I did have someone offer to make medicine for the symptoms, so... perhaps that is good enough for a toast. When we're home, another rule of alcohol you may not know is keeping hydrated is key to not regretting it in the morning.

[apparently the earworm has very good, nonhangover alcohol but even if he knew that he wouldn't believe it without proof. he throws pal a smile before turning his attention properly back to the gem, stopping so they can just look at it, leaning in just a little.]

... Incredible. If that truly is made of blood it is- well, terribly morbid but still.