[Even without the kisses and the hype of discovery!! Viktor would be very cute, leaning in like that to conspiratorially share his research goals. Palamedes resists the urge to kiss him again or they will never get any productive hobby time in during this work break, ahem, but the sheer level of dazzling affection with which he looks at Viktor in this moment could melt ice in a pinch.]

Delicately, at least. Until anti-corruption methods are more robust.

[That too is a fun project, though, so it works out. And hey now, sir... Palamedes tuts and picks up his pen again, gesturing at Viktor with it. Care about birthdays at once.]

I want to get you a squid day gift, so for twenty-four hours you'll have to pretend.