I know. I know. It sounds... ridiculous. I don't like it either, but there are rules here. We can't act openly against them, even if we wanted to. Last time Vi punched Silco, she was brought in for sentencing. The Council here, they see and know everything, it seems like. Any act of violence is noted and used against you later.
[That's such a rough summary of things, anyway. She still keeps tabs on Jinx and Silco, of course. Or had. She had stopped, when the town changed, because her memories were fucked up, but after talking it out and getting corrected by Vi, she was back to monitoring. But she knows everything Jinx has done has backfired against her. She's been in the eyesight of the Council how many times now? ]
I know that too. Now, anyway. Believe me, if I knew how bad it was sooner-- I knew Marcus wouldn't listen to me, I knew there was more to the story, but I never expected-- [It feels like she's just making excuses. Could she have done more? Possibly? Her mother was a Counselor, surely she could have figured out a way-- but what's done was done, and she had to focus on the future.
Whatever the future entailed.]
I promise you, Ekko. When we get home, I will do everything in my power to change things. If I have to become Sheriff myself, I won't let the system stay the way it is. No more corruption. No more Uppercity verus Undercity. We have to come together to fix what's happened between us.
[How, being the question, given-- the bomb.]
Vi helped me across. I was hurt, but not badly. I'm glad you made it out of there, as well. But-- do you know-- did you see-- [She pauses, taking a deep breath. It's the one thing she's avoided thinking about this whole past year, because lingering on if her mother was alive or not would make her crazy, when there was nothing she could do about it.]
Sorry-- continue. Who did you meet? [She's genuinely curious, and hopeful that it means something positive, and someone she cares about is safe.]
You mean to tell me I can't even tie my boots without this 'Council' knowing about it? Damn...Guess I need to watch my step.
[Leave it to Ekko to be a smart ass as per the general norm with a cocky smirk smeared over his lips half amusedly. He gets the gist of it what she means, the boy savior basically had to prepare himself not to invoke people's wraith or be willing to suffer the consequences of his actions. If a situation arose and there was absolutely no other way around it he would just have to accept his fate and submit himself to the will of this all seeing Council. Used to getting into mischief he would have to tread lightly, a tough road to follow now given how things worked in Zaun, take first and ask questions later mentality.
He waves a hand of dismissal before gently resting it on her shoulder in a reassuring manner, sighing solemnly with a shake of his head as he tries best to ease her worries if only a little. Ekko knew she wanted what was best for their nation despite surrounding herself by other top siders who cared little for his fellow Zaunites plight in the Undercity, one of the few he'd met truly wishing to enact change trying to unify Zaun and Piltover.]
I know you mean well, Caitlyn. For what its worth I think you would make a great sheriff and bring about real change for our people.
[Truly meaning that sentiment, if she had been sheriff instead of Marcus who's amoral ways led the Firelights to become branded as would be terrorists instead of rightfully being pinned on Silco and his goons things would be a lot simpler in his life back home.]
One of the Uppercity founders the Yordle himself, Heimerdinger. Guess that actually makes two Piltie's who are alright in my books.
[When she explains how she got away to safety but hesitates to finish the last bit he cannot help but cock a brow curiously, tilting his head with a cross of his arms over his chest gauging her with a contemplative gaze.]
Honestly? Probably. [Caitlyn has to laugh, because it's so ridiculous of a statement, even if it is probably true. It's not been entirely clear how the Council keeps tabs on them, but it's obvious enough to know nothing stays a secret forever around here.
But any laughter is cut short when Ekko puts his hand on her shoulder, and she blinks in surprise at his compliment.]
Ekko, I-- [She wasn't really joking, but she wasn't being fully serious about the Sheriff position. But hearing his praise, it hits her in a way she didn't expect. Her? Sheriff? Of course she had thought about it, as a future goal, but maybe it wasn't so far off as she had originally considered. The position was open.]
Thank you. That means a lot, coming from you.
[She didn't know what to expect when he mentioned meeting someone she would know, but when he finally mentions the name, it just leaves her more confused.]
Heimerdinger? When? Where? He helped you? [Not that she doubts he would, she's just confused at how Heimerdinger found him. What was he doing in the Undercity? Granted... he wasn't at the Council meeting her mom scheduled for her. She didn't think anything of it at the time, but that was strange, that he would be absent.
Andddd yep he's directing it back to her. Crap. The fact that he's even asking that is telling her he probably doesn't know. But she's dug herself into a hole and can't exactly skirt around it now. ]
Jinx got the stone. When Vi and I got off the bridge, we realized it was missing. She must have slipped it out during the fight. We couldn't go back, not with all the Enforcers that swarmed the area. We tried to petition the Council, but without the stone, they wouldn't listen. They were talking about war against the Undercity. We failed, and Jinx made the first strike.
[She can and will explain further, but she feels like that says enough. With Jinx in possession of the stone, she could use it to power her weapons. She could unleash her chaos.]
Don't mention it. Certainly beats any deadbeat crook that Silco would try and replace Marcus with that's for damn sure.
[He genuinely thought she had the stones for the job after facing down the scourge of the Undercity and living to tell the tale despite the injuries she had been inflicted. It wasn't everyday you were caught in an explosive barrage disguised as firelight bugs which had definitely pissed him off since it gave his crew even more of a bad rep than already pitted against them due to Silco's influence.
He nods in affirmation to her questioning about Heimerdinger, the funny little Yordle saving him upon finding the boy savior underneath the bridge unable to move given his broken leg. Ever since then he'd been staying with him in hopes of aiding the masses of Zaun after being let go from the Council which was crazy to hear given his position as one of the cities leading innovators top side, bestowing the masses with technological advancements they never would have dreamed of if not for his genius.]
Yeah, that's right. He saved me after my fight with Jinx. I...hesitated to finish her off when I had the jump on her and she armed a grenade that nearly killed us both. When I came to she was gone and I hobbled below the bridge to lick my wounds. That's when Heimerdinger found me and helped me get back home.
[What Caitlyn says next causes a visible grimace to fall in place over his features, brows furrowed in disdain as a hand curls tightly into a fist with frustration. After everything they had been through the stone just ended up back in the hands of those held responsible for Zaun's despair. The fact the Council did not listen without their precious artifact returned to them didn't surprise Ekko but that last bit, "Jinx made the first strike" has the leader of the Firelights deeply concerned.]
Caitlyn...What exactly do you mean 'strike first'?
[Silco was dead. Back home. And clearly he didn't know this, if he thought it was still possible for Silco to pull the strings. She didn't doubt that whoever took his place might still be able to pull those same strings, but she would be sure to do everything in her power to keep that from happening.
But she's not going there just yet. He's talking about Heimerdinger. She's definitely grateful for the founder of Piltover for helping Ekko, but she had always known him to be a kind person. Granted, her interactions were scarce and brief, but she had definitely met him, thanks to her mother's position on the Council. Which made her wonder, did Ekko know this? She hadn't even told Vi yet, when they were still with Ekko. She had been counting on Jayce's help, rather than her mothers.]
I'm glad you were able to get away safely. We both worried, leaving you behind like that. [Especially with Jinx there. And knowing Jinx walked away, albeit maybe not so well, if Silco had to heal her with Shimmer. She had worried, in those moments, that Jinx might've killed him too, until he showed up here.
She pauses, trying to decide how to best explain what happened. It was... a lot. Memories she tried not to think too hard about, since she was barely even able to process them before she wound up here.]
After you got away, I imagine Silco rescued Jinx and gave her Shimmer to help her heal. [Just like the Shimmer medicine she gave Vi, to heal her, way back when.]
Jinx kidnapped us. She was... worse. More unstable than before. Her eyes were pink, like Shimmer. Vi tried to talk sense in her, but her and Silco just started arguing and... Jinx shot him. Silco died, and... Jinx used the weapon they were powering with the gemstone. On Piltover. On the Council.
[She knows he's probably going to have a million follow up questions, especially given the fact that she's already told him that Silco is here too, but she didn't want to throw too much on his plate to process at one moment.]
Heh- Appreciate it but you don't have to worry about me. It was a close call but in the end I came out mostly unscathed.
[Usual cocky demeanor shining through a bit now as he tries to ease the others concerns. At least he didn't end up like Jinx who apparently needed far more attention than just a splint and crutch to mend her wounds. If it wasn't for Heimerdinger who knows how things would have turned out for him but the boy savior's luck prevailed and was able to make a swift recovery after laying low for awhile in the Firelight's hideout.
That did leave him in the dark as to what was going on outside his little safe haven though, Caitlyn beginning to fill in the gaps now as they finally reunited together here in Aldrip. Silence filled the air as he listened closely to everything that happened during his time spent in rehabilitation, jaw agape when she comes to the part about Silco's death. Was it true? The evil man he fought so hard to remove from power had been killed by his own daughter of all people? What could have possibly happened in the short span of time to cause such a turn of events? Countless questions racked the catacombs of his mind but that was not the end of it just yet, evidentially more to the story as she continues on to explain the atrocities that occurred next.
Bowing his head solemnly the boy sighs as he takes everything in stride, keeping calm and collected before his gaze returns to Caitlyn's own with a somber look stricken over his features.]
That's...A lot to take in but I appreciate you bringing me back up to speed, Caitlyn.
[Honestly he doesn't know where to start given everything he just heard so he just settles on trying to facilitate the tension in the air knowing this was likely hard for her to talk about. Taking things slow and steady he would reserve his questions one at a time as not to overwhelm her given the emotional turmoil she was likely facing right now.]
Look...I'm sorry I couldn't be there to help you both I wish I had been. I know this must be tough for you but...Why did Jinx kill Silco?
Your leg, right? You were... here, once. Not for long. But you were limping. [She knows how weird and hella confusing that sounds. She knows how crazy this all sounds. She knows she's throwing a lot of information his way, so she's definitely trying to be careful about how much she tells him at once.
She's been new before too, but the rest of them have a good year's worth of time in Aldrip to dig into, too.]
Of course. I'm glad I was the one to find you first. To prepare you for the rest.
[She can only imagine him seeing Jinx or Silco again first would've been ugly. At least now, he can be somewhat prepared for when he does finally see them again.]
That's the thing. I'm not... entirely sure. She knocked me out, so I only know what Vi told me. But it seemed like an accident. Vi and Silco were arguing, and he was going to shoot Vi. Jinx reacted, and regretted it, of course. [It was definitely tough to talk about. It's something she honestly hasn't talked about a lot, for reasons. Vi never really wanted to get into much detail about her past and what happened in the Undercity before they met. It was an accident that she even learned that Vi and Jinx had been present the day Jayce's apartment exploded. And it really didn't help that it was just a reminder of what she was going to have to face again when she finally did figure out a way to get back home.]
This place is....strange. Those that die don't always stay dead. So Silco is here, brought in those moments before his death, I imagine. And time doesn't seem to move the same, either. Vi's been here longer than any of us, while Jinx and I arrived at the same time... a year ago, now. But from what you've said, it sounds like you came from the same time we left, even though so much time has passed for us here. [It was something she had suspected, but hearing the timing confirmed from Ekko was a bit of a relief. Her family (or what was left of it) wasn't missing her, worried in her absence. She would still be able to go home and help fix things, in the aftermath of Silco and the chaos Jinx caused.]
[Wait; Did Caitlyn say he'd been here already once before but had no prior memory of his stay? Now that was very curious, Ekko blinking wide in disbelief as he absorbs the information silently with a simplistic nod of his head followed in short. If he'd still been limping with his crutch that means he was brought here only recently after his battle with Jinx upon the bridge but for him a little bit of time had passed since then though he'd kept to himself, hiding in the safety of the Firelight's haven with Heimerdinger biding his time until the leg had mended from its wound. He'd planned to go out and look for both Vi and Caitlyn now that he was capable again, fixing his hoverboard as well with the Yordle's aid but had been plucked from the warmth of his bed to end up here in this strange new world.]
You say I was here before...How long was my stay last time?
[Genuinely curious how time worked here in Aldrip; His biggest fear was leaving behind those who needed him back home without his support. As Caitlyn continued to lay out the events after their last interactions with each other, Ekko stays quiet as he listens intently. A solemn sigh escapes his parted lips when she mentions the fact that she wasn't exactly sure why Jinx killed Silco but alluded to the fact the other had snapped after Silco tried to attack Vi and acted hastily without thinking properly. It didn't surprise him really for his old confidant had become a rather reckless individual who's better judgement had been clouded by past trauma along with hew newfound father's poisonous influence swaying her decision making.
The final sentiment towards how time worked here causes him to perk up if only just a little, nodding in understanding as the tension in his shoulders eases. So whilst they dwelled here in Aldrip time remained seemingly at a stand still, a small saving grace at the very least which caused his worries to lessen if only just a little.]
I see...So Jinx snapped and made a hasty decision without thinking...Figures as much. As for Silco...He got what he deserved but it's unfortunate he's here as well.
[The tyrant had been given a second chance at life, here's hoping he didn't squander it. Ekko wasn't about to go looking for the man right about now but if he tried to make trouble for him or those he cared about the boy savior would pick right back up where he left off in Zaun and put an end to his insistent meddling. His next question might strike a bit of a cord with her given her affinity with the top siders but he was curious to know what happened next.]
So you say the Council was attacked...Do you know what became of them?
A month, maybe? It wasn't very long at all. [At least compared to her own time here, or Vi's, who had been here longer than all of them. She knew that had to be confusing as hell to learn. He isn't the first person she's seen return either, and like Ekko, they didn't remember their past visit either. It was always disconcerting, how easily the Council could toy with their memories. Hers were finally straightened out again, but it took months. It was frustrating.]
I don't expect you to remember it. You aren't the only one to come back, with no memories of your last visit.
[She nods as he repeats what she explained. He's been very quiet, but she isn't surprised. Again, it's so much to process. And this is just scratching the surface. They might have to dig into more information at a later time, just to give him a break from all this.]
It is unfortunate. I keep tabs on him, just to make sure he's not up to too much. He's running a few businesses in town, and just reopened the Last Drop. Nothing too bad, but I don't let my guard down. [Or tried not to. Her memories were fucked up for a little while, so she wasn't paying attention for a few months. Not that she could actually do anything about it, if he did start doing something sketchy, but she could leave tips for Jerry and let them bust him.]
Vi and I mostly avoid him. Her and Jinx are doing.. alright. Most of the time. Jinx is mad at them right now, since they fought each other in this tournament thing that happened last month. [And killed each other, and both came back from the dead, but again, not wanting to load him up with too much.
But then he asked the most pivotal question, and she hesitates. She doesn't know, and it kills her, not knowing. But deep down, she knows... it didn't look good.]
I...don't know. We were all pulled here, before the damage was even accessed. I just hope-- I had a friend on the council, like I told you, Counselor Talis, but-- so was my mother.
[It was strange to hear from Caitlyn of a prior venture here to these lands but did not retain any of his past memories, stranger still that no time had passed over the course of their stay here but was thankful for that much. That filled him with a sense of relief knowing those who looked to him for guidance would not be amiss, searching for Ekko as he bides his time here in Aldrip trying to find a way back to them.]
I don't remember anything...To think this 'Council' can alter our memories at their convenience to toy with us.
[Clearly they were powerful beings capable of unknown feats to him but one thing was for certain the boy would have to tread softly in his wake here. Ekko nods in understanding as Caitlyn laid out everything she knew in regards to Silco's dealings here, a forced smile gracing his features if only for a moment.]
Diligent as ever I see. Glad to know some things don't change around here and you haven't lost your edge, Caitlyn. You won't have to bear that burden alone any longer, I plan to keep my own tabs on him not only for our sake but everyone else trapped here with us.
[Ever playing the heroic savior, Ekko meant every word for he did not trust Silco in the slightest even if he'd met his maker and was given another chance at life here. People like him hardly ever changed and often stuck to their backwards ideologies so why would things be different here? A quizzical look is given when Caitlyn brings up the recent affairs between Vi, Jinx and her adoptive father, crossing arms over his chest shifting most of his weight onto his good leg. So they were pitted in a tournament against one another? That would be an interesting topic of discussion in the near future but was more concerned about the pressing matters they were immediately covering about their own problems back home.
His eyes bulge wide when Caitlyn reveals that her mother was part of the Council and likely there when they were attacked given her apprehensive behavior. A hand reaches out to comfort her before retracting it with a subtle nod of his head, sighing solemnly as he looks to give her some kind words to try and alleviate her worries even if he wasn't the best at this sort of thing.]
I had no idea your mother was on the Council...But...If she is anything like you her stubborn willpower shall prevail and you'll see her again soon when this is all over.
They've done it multiple times. To all of us. [It wasn't just the people that left and returned that had their memories messed with. People doing sentencing had to deal with weird shit, and that wasn't even touching on the time the entire city changed and they all had new lives and new memories for the whole month. Her and Vi had been engaged. It was so much, having to process that after things went back to normal.]
Thank you. I'd be glad to have your help. [Especially since her other jobs had gotten busier. Her Detective Agency was growing, and with the growth of the city has come the additional jobs. And now she was helping Vi run the bar Lupin that she took over. She mostly just handled the books, but that was still a good amount of time she had to put into it to keep things right. Adding that, with monitoring the network, keeping an eye on City Hall, and keeping tabs on Silco? It was a lot for one person to do.]
I.. didn't tell any of you, purposely. I wasn't lying when I said I had a friend on the Council. Jayce Talis, the creator of Hextech, is my friend. He was sponsored by my parents during his time in the Academy. He was given a seat on the Council, just before I came down to the Undercity with Vi. [She just wanted to make sure he knew that. She wasn't lying, even if she didn't give the whole truth.]
I don't always see eye to eye with my mother. She's never liked the fact that I became an Enforcer. She would do anything to get me to follow in her footsteps, but I've never cared for that. I didn't want my investigation to get back to her. I was already pushing it, disobeying Marcus and releasing Vi. But even so... she supported me, when we got back. She helped me plead my case with the Council, even if they didn't listen.
[She sighs softly, trying not to let her emotions get the best of her. There's nothing she can do about it from here, but that still hasn't stopped her from wondering and worrying.]
It's the least I can do…Especially since I don't trust Silco for an instant, who knows what he's been scheming at here in Aldrip.
[The man wasn't exactly known for his good will, save for those crooked souls of Chem Barons who lined their pockets due to his shady dealings with Shimmer and the like. Besides that he was nothing more than a silver tongued charlatan who claimed to have the best interests of Zaun in mind but caused nothing but hardship and sorrow for their people at every turn. Ekko would be damned if he just sat by idly and did not keep him in check just as he did back home, disrupting the others plans in hopes of dispatching the tyrannical ruler in due time. However; It seems as though he wouldn't have to worry about that much longer given everything Caitlyn had told him about the near future, a whole new set of problems likely to unfold in the wake of Jinx’s actions.
Ekko cannot help but blink wide in astonishment when she reveals her relationship towards the founder of Hextech, one Jayce Talis whom a mutual accomplice of theirs Heimerdinger had briefly told him about. To think she was so well connected and yet had defied her parents expectations to help his people instead, showing her true character as someone he could genuinely trust as a top sider. A simplistic wave of his hand is given in dismissal as if to ease her worries, for he didn't reveal his full intentions to just anyone himself either.]
Don't worry about it…All that matters is that you did the right thing which is more than I can say about most Piltie's. No offense, Caitlyn. You mean well for both our people I can see that.
[A solemn frown briefly crossed his features as he noted her unease talking about what the future held for her mother, moving to gently put a hand on her shoulder once more in a comforting fashion giving a reassuring squeeze.]
Best not to dwell on it. I know how hard it is to leave behind those you care about without knowing their fate. The Firelights look to me for guidance but I'm stuck here all the same.
Mostly just buying up properties and businesses. Nothing too underhanded. Yet. [So nothing she could pass on to Jerry. Even if she didn't agree with the system here, she wasn't against keeping Silco on Jerry's radar. Especially since she was about 99% sure Silco complained to Jerry about Vi punching him and got her sentenced. But she knew it would only be the start. He had to work his way back up, to the amount of power and money he had in Zaun.
It's honestly been a lot, trying not to think about all this for this last year. She had it thrown in her face when that maze appeared, had to see the death and destruction herself, but she still tried to move past it. She knew it would do her no good, to linger in the unknown. And while it sometimes drove her crazy that Vi never wanted to talk about her past, she was immensely grateful that Vi did not bring any of it up, because she didn't want to talk about it either.
But here she was, opening that valve, letting out the flood gates she had been holding back in for so long now.]
At least-- [Her voice cracks a little, but she takes a deep breath when she feels his hand on her shoulder.]
At least, your return confirms that time hasn't gotten away from us. Once we find our way out of here, we can get back to them. [And hopefully, it won't be in vain. Hopefully it won't mean the last time she saw her mother alive was long in the past.]
I don't buy it...Silco always has ulterior motives. He must be buying these places for some reason besides making easy money.
[Ekko would certainly be keeping an weathered eye on these businesses once he found out where and what they were. A man like Silco may seem harmless on the surface to those who don't know him but the leader of the Firelights would expose the fraud for exactly what he was eventually. Despite his untimely demise in their own world the boy wasn't about to give the villain a pass for everything he's been made to endure, along with the people who've been killed by his hand indirectly thanks to those nefarious thugs who followed him.
Caitlyn's words of reassurance in return after his own consoling makes his anxieties about this place cease a bit, nodding in agreement to her rebuttal. Slowly slipping his hand away from the girl's shoulder, a look of pure determination washed over his features. There had to be a way to get back home and escape this place, with their combined efforts they surely could find the answers they sought. Pulling out his trusted pocket watch he twirls it through the air before expertly catching it in his hand.]
Seems like time is at a standstill in Runeterra while we are here in Aldrip then…At least that is to our advantage. We’ll find a way back...Our people need us.
[Optimism shining through when it counted most for if he assumed there was no hope you're guaranteed to find none. Ekko believed the future was always what you made of it and if no one stepped up to take responsibility then you would be left destitute forever.]
He had to start from nothing. He's building his power and connections, as well as his wealth. [Don't worry, Caitlyn's made a list and has been monitoring their activity already, too. Silco's gone out of his way to put on that harmless, businessman act, but she knew better. He was just trying to work his way up to what he had before. At least she doubted that Aldrip would bend to his will the way Zaun did.]
My thoughts exactly. That just leaves the problem of figuring out how to leave this place.
[It wasn't always terrible. There were good moments, at times. She's made a lot of friends, and of course, having this time with Vi has been more than she could have ever asked for. She loved her, so much, even if she hadn't dared to utter those words again. She doesn't want to lose what they've made here, even if she knows it can only be temporary. Maybe it can continue when they return, but there are so many obstacles in their way. Oil and water, is what Vi called them. Would it come to that again? And that was just running on the basis that they got a choice when this was all said and done.]
And he will remain nothing if I can help it. I won't let Silco ruin another world just for his own selfish gain.
[The corrupt man had already ravaged Zaun and instilled his immoral values to his home but Ekko would be damned if he let that happen here in Aldrip as well. He knows how the other operates, pretending to be an outstanding member of society here but in the shadows was scheming up some way to seize control of this place from the seemingly all powerful Council. Despite his lack of knowledge about their overseers they could not possibly be as bad compared to the vile tyrant who ruthlessly oversaw the Lanes, subjecting the masses to such harsh living conditions under his dictatorship ruling.
Caitlyn's latter sentiment resonates with him immensely, nodding in agreement as he sighs solemnly with a pensive look stricken over his face. There were too many people in Runeterra who relied on him to be stuck in this place and needed to find a way back to them by whatever means necessary.]
We'll find a way. We have to...For the people who need us.
[A brief pause as a flash of a sincere smile graced Ekko's features as a bit of hushed laughter erupts under his breath.]
You know we're a lot more alike than I originally thought given your status as a Piltie, Caitlyn. No offense.
Just-- be careful, whatever you do. This place has its own rules. Any acts of violence, deserved or not, get punished, if it's outside the regularly scheduled torture events.
[Vi got sentenced immediately after punching Silco the first time. It was deserved, of course, and she has no doubt that Silco complained to Jerry himself, but the point still stands. Anything they deem out of line could have very serious consequences. Unless it was like the tower-- where Silco and Vi fought and killed each other. Those special occasions always seemed to bend the usual rules, and lean into the chaos.
Caitlyn nods, in solemn agreement-- at least, until Ekko's final comment. She fights back a chuckle, because that was honestly one of the last things she expected to hear from Ekko, of all people.]
None taken. I would say my actions were less extreme, but I did break someone out of prison and left a trail of chaos and destruction through the Undercity. [...most of which were thanks to Silco and his goons, but still!! So much shit happened, from the moment she stepped foot into Zaun.]
[Pointing a thumb to his chest before wiping a thumb under his chin in a cocky notion, he waves her off to ease her concern as the boy savior shakes his head confidently in response. Ekko wasn't worried about getting into trouble if the perpetrator was brought to justice along with him, if that was the price he had to pay for his degressions so be it. How bad could the punishments possibly be when he was faced with the threat of death everyday back home anyways?]
Don't worry about me this isn't the first time I've dealt with going against the grain after all.
[Though it was kind of touching that a top sider of all people was concerned for his well being when he was so used to them not even acknowledging their existence most of the time. Caitlyn truly was an outlier in her people and hoped they could work together in the future back home to bring about peace between Piltover and Zaun. From what he's been told already they would need each other more than ever due to the circumstances at large, Silco's death and the subsequent issues of Jinx's attack on the Council likely to create civil unrest between the two nations. It would be an arduous journey but one worth fighting for, Ekko never one to back down when the going got tough and rise up against adversity.
An amused smirk forms over his lips at the mention of the chaos and carnage she had ensued in her wake within the Lanes upon arrival, tilting his head just so as the boy stuffs hands deep into his coat pockets.]
Yeah...Vi's pretty good at making a mess of things wherever she goes so I wouldn't blame yourself too much there.
[Caitlyn might otherwise appreciate his overconfidence. It was welcomed back home, but now? Now, he has no idea what he's getting himself into.]
This isn't Piltover or Zaun. This isn't just "going against the grain." This place is intentionally designed to torture us for whatever they decide we're guilty of.
[Of course she cares what happens to him. He's important to Vi. While she'd like to hopefully call him a friend, she still barely knows him, but she can tell he's a good person. He means well, which is something she can't say about everyone.
And clearly he knows Vi well, judging by that statement.]
She does like to talk with her fists, doesn't she? [But she wouldn't have it any other way. Vi saved her skin many a time, in the Undercity and here. She was so strong and passionate. She tried to hide how much she cared, but Caitlyn knew. She saw through her tough facade pretty quick. She was a good person, just broken by a society that didn't care.]
[Maybe he was acting a bit hastily given the fact he had little idea how things worked around here, Ekko sighing solemnly under his breath as he reluctantly nods in agreement. Caitlyn had been here longer than him and it would be wise to adhere to her wisdom on the matter at hand even if it left a bitter taste in his mouth. Silco deserved to rot for everything he's done to Zaun and his people at large and would get his revenge one way or another eventually. For now the boy savior would simply have to bide his time and chart a course of action which could stop the would be ruler.]
You're right...I hate admitting it but I guess we cannot just go around doing whatever the hell we want like back home to try and stop him.
[He's glad for the change in subject trying to ease the tension in his limbs as his counterpart speaks up about Vi's unorthodox methods of getting things done. A cheeky smirk crosses his lips followed in short by a bit of laughter, knowing all too well how his sisterly figure operates on any given day.]
Punch first, ask questions later. That's always been Vi's preferred way of doing things. Not that I particularly blame her though she just needs to pick her battles from time to time.
I just-- don't want something to happen to you. I've been sentenced before, and it wasn't pleasant. And that's just the beginning of what they like to do to us around here.
[Even if she didn't technically have proof that the strange occurrences around here were directly due to the Council, it was a little too convenient to think it wasn't. Especially since the locals typically weren't affected, and everything happened in such a strict cycle pattern. New arrivals and sentencing happened in the same month, then the following month was usually something bad happening town wide.]
She's getting better, I think. [She says that like Vi didn't just kill Silco, but details. He killed her, too. But still.]
Speaking of Vi-- we have a place in town, if you need somewhere to stay. We have an extra room that you're welcome to. I can't imagine Vi would mind. [She would check in with Vi about it, of course, but she doubted Vi would care. Surely she would agree having Ekko close by would be nice, even if it was something short term.]
Don't worry about me. I've been looking out for myself a long time now so I can handle whatever sort of bullshit this Council tries to throw at me.
[After Vi had been captured by the Enforcers and put behind bars whilst Jinx was taken under Silco's wing to become manipulated he was left alone to fend for himself. Instead of letting the horrors of his past consume him much like his counterpart it hardened his resolve.
At Caitlyn's offer he blinks wide a bit in astonishment, the pair of them had a place...together? He knew Vi and herself had been working in unison to get to Silco but was there something else at work between them he'd yet to realize? Whatever the case may be, Ekko nods in agreement to as a sincere smile forms over his features.]
Ya'll got a place here and everything, huh? Just long you two been here exactly?
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expiationlogs2024-06-10 07:58 am
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[That's such a rough summary of things, anyway. She still keeps tabs on Jinx and Silco, of course. Or had. She had stopped, when the town changed, because her memories were fucked up, but after talking it out and getting corrected by Vi, she was back to monitoring. But she knows everything Jinx has done has backfired against her. She's been in the eyesight of the Council how many times now? ]
I know that too. Now, anyway. Believe me, if I knew how bad it was sooner-- I knew Marcus wouldn't listen to me, I knew there was more to the story, but I never expected-- [It feels like she's just making excuses. Could she have done more? Possibly? Her mother was a Counselor, surely she could have figured out a way-- but what's done was done, and she had to focus on the future.
Whatever the future entailed.]
I promise you, Ekko. When we get home, I will do everything in my power to change things. If I have to become Sheriff myself, I won't let the system stay the way it is. No more corruption. No more Uppercity verus Undercity. We have to come together to fix what's happened between us.
[How, being the question, given-- the bomb.]
Vi helped me across. I was hurt, but not badly. I'm glad you made it out of there, as well. But-- do you know-- did you see-- [She pauses, taking a deep breath. It's the one thing she's avoided thinking about this whole past year, because lingering on if her mother was alive or not would make her crazy, when there was nothing she could do about it.]
Sorry-- continue. Who did you meet? [She's genuinely curious, and hopeful that it means something positive, and someone she cares about is safe.]
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[Leave it to Ekko to be a smart ass as per the general norm with a cocky smirk smeared over his lips half amusedly. He gets the gist of it what she means, the boy savior basically had to prepare himself not to invoke people's wraith or be willing to suffer the consequences of his actions. If a situation arose and there was absolutely no other way around it he would just have to accept his fate and submit himself to the will of this all seeing Council. Used to getting into mischief he would have to tread lightly, a tough road to follow now given how things worked in Zaun, take first and ask questions later mentality.
He waves a hand of dismissal before gently resting it on her shoulder in a reassuring manner, sighing solemnly with a shake of his head as he tries best to ease her worries if only a little. Ekko knew she wanted what was best for their nation despite surrounding herself by other top siders who cared little for his fellow Zaunites plight in the Undercity, one of the few he'd met truly wishing to enact change trying to unify Zaun and Piltover.]
I know you mean well, Caitlyn. For what its worth I think you would make a great sheriff and bring about real change for our people.
[Truly meaning that sentiment, if she had been sheriff instead of Marcus who's amoral ways led the Firelights to become branded as would be terrorists instead of rightfully being pinned on Silco and his goons things would be a lot simpler in his life back home.]
One of the Uppercity founders the Yordle himself, Heimerdinger. Guess that actually makes two Piltie's who are alright in my books.
[When she explains how she got away to safety but hesitates to finish the last bit he cannot help but cock a brow curiously, tilting his head with a cross of his arms over his chest gauging her with a contemplative gaze.]
Now its your turn...Did I see what exactly?
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But any laughter is cut short when Ekko puts his hand on her shoulder, and she blinks in surprise at his compliment.]
Ekko, I-- [She wasn't really joking, but she wasn't being fully serious about the Sheriff position. But hearing his praise, it hits her in a way she didn't expect. Her? Sheriff? Of course she had thought about it, as a future goal, but maybe it wasn't so far off as she had originally considered. The position was open.]
Thank you. That means a lot, coming from you.
[She didn't know what to expect when he mentioned meeting someone she would know, but when he finally mentions the name, it just leaves her more confused.]
Heimerdinger? When? Where? He helped you? [Not that she doubts he would, she's just confused at how Heimerdinger found him. What was he doing in the Undercity? Granted... he wasn't at the Council meeting her mom scheduled for her. She didn't think anything of it at the time, but that was strange, that he would be absent.
Andddd yep he's directing it back to her. Crap. The fact that he's even asking that is telling her he probably doesn't know. But she's dug herself into a hole and can't exactly skirt around it now. ]
Jinx got the stone. When Vi and I got off the bridge, we realized it was missing. She must have slipped it out during the fight. We couldn't go back, not with all the Enforcers that swarmed the area. We tried to petition the Council, but without the stone, they wouldn't listen. They were talking about war against the Undercity. We failed, and Jinx made the first strike.
[She can and will explain further, but she feels like that says enough. With Jinx in possession of the stone, she could use it to power her weapons. She could unleash her chaos.]
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[He genuinely thought she had the stones for the job after facing down the scourge of the Undercity and living to tell the tale despite the injuries she had been inflicted. It wasn't everyday you were caught in an explosive barrage disguised as firelight bugs which had definitely pissed him off since it gave his crew even more of a bad rep than already pitted against them due to Silco's influence.
He nods in affirmation to her questioning about Heimerdinger, the funny little Yordle saving him upon finding the boy savior underneath the bridge unable to move given his broken leg. Ever since then he'd been staying with him in hopes of aiding the masses of Zaun after being let go from the Council which was crazy to hear given his position as one of the cities leading innovators top side, bestowing the masses with technological advancements they never would have dreamed of if not for his genius.]
Yeah, that's right. He saved me after my fight with Jinx. I...hesitated to finish her off when I had the jump on her and she armed a grenade that nearly killed us both. When I came to she was gone and I hobbled below the bridge to lick my wounds. That's when Heimerdinger found me and helped me get back home.
[What Caitlyn says next causes a visible grimace to fall in place over his features, brows furrowed in disdain as a hand curls tightly into a fist with frustration. After everything they had been through the stone just ended up back in the hands of those held responsible for Zaun's despair. The fact the Council did not listen without their precious artifact returned to them didn't surprise Ekko but that last bit, "Jinx made the first strike" has the leader of the Firelights deeply concerned.]
Caitlyn...What exactly do you mean 'strike first'?
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[Silco was dead. Back home. And clearly he didn't know this, if he thought it was still possible for Silco to pull the strings. She didn't doubt that whoever took his place might still be able to pull those same strings, but she would be sure to do everything in her power to keep that from happening.
But she's not going there just yet. He's talking about Heimerdinger. She's definitely grateful for the founder of Piltover for helping Ekko, but she had always known him to be a kind person. Granted, her interactions were scarce and brief, but she had definitely met him, thanks to her mother's position on the Council. Which made her wonder, did Ekko know this? She hadn't even told Vi yet, when they were still with Ekko. She had been counting on Jayce's help, rather than her mothers.]
I'm glad you were able to get away safely. We both worried, leaving you behind like that. [Especially with Jinx there. And knowing Jinx walked away, albeit maybe not so well, if Silco had to heal her with Shimmer. She had worried, in those moments, that Jinx might've killed him too, until he showed up here.
She pauses, trying to decide how to best explain what happened. It was... a lot. Memories she tried not to think too hard about, since she was barely even able to process them before she wound up here.]
After you got away, I imagine Silco rescued Jinx and gave her Shimmer to help her heal. [Just like the Shimmer medicine she gave Vi, to heal her, way back when.]
Jinx kidnapped us. She was... worse. More unstable than before. Her eyes were pink, like Shimmer. Vi tried to talk sense in her, but her and Silco just started arguing and... Jinx shot him. Silco died, and... Jinx used the weapon they were powering with the gemstone. On Piltover. On the Council.
[She knows he's probably going to have a million follow up questions, especially given the fact that she's already told him that Silco is here too, but she didn't want to throw too much on his plate to process at one moment.]
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[Usual cocky demeanor shining through a bit now as he tries to ease the others concerns. At least he didn't end up like Jinx who apparently needed far more attention than just a splint and crutch to mend her wounds. If it wasn't for Heimerdinger who knows how things would have turned out for him but the boy savior's luck prevailed and was able to make a swift recovery after laying low for awhile in the Firelight's hideout.
That did leave him in the dark as to what was going on outside his little safe haven though, Caitlyn beginning to fill in the gaps now as they finally reunited together here in Aldrip. Silence filled the air as he listened closely to everything that happened during his time spent in rehabilitation, jaw agape when she comes to the part about Silco's death. Was it true? The evil man he fought so hard to remove from power had been killed by his own daughter of all people? What could have possibly happened in the short span of time to cause such a turn of events? Countless questions racked the catacombs of his mind but that was not the end of it just yet, evidentially more to the story as she continues on to explain the atrocities that occurred next.
Bowing his head solemnly the boy sighs as he takes everything in stride, keeping calm and collected before his gaze returns to Caitlyn's own with a somber look stricken over his features.]
That's...A lot to take in but I appreciate you bringing me back up to speed, Caitlyn.
[Honestly he doesn't know where to start given everything he just heard so he just settles on trying to facilitate the tension in the air knowing this was likely hard for her to talk about. Taking things slow and steady he would reserve his questions one at a time as not to overwhelm her given the emotional turmoil she was likely facing right now.]
Look...I'm sorry I couldn't be there to help you both I wish I had been. I know this must be tough for you but...Why did Jinx kill Silco?
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She's been new before too, but the rest of them have a good year's worth of time in Aldrip to dig into, too.]
Of course. I'm glad I was the one to find you first. To prepare you for the rest.
[She can only imagine him seeing Jinx or Silco again first would've been ugly. At least now, he can be somewhat prepared for when he does finally see them again.]
That's the thing. I'm not... entirely sure. She knocked me out, so I only know what Vi told me. But it seemed like an accident. Vi and Silco were arguing, and he was going to shoot Vi. Jinx reacted, and regretted it, of course. [It was definitely tough to talk about. It's something she honestly hasn't talked about a lot, for reasons. Vi never really wanted to get into much detail about her past and what happened in the Undercity before they met. It was an accident that she even learned that Vi and Jinx had been present the day Jayce's apartment exploded. And it really didn't help that it was just a reminder of what she was going to have to face again when she finally did figure out a way to get back home.]
This place is....strange. Those that die don't always stay dead. So Silco is here, brought in those moments before his death, I imagine. And time doesn't seem to move the same, either. Vi's been here longer than any of us, while Jinx and I arrived at the same time... a year ago, now. But from what you've said, it sounds like you came from the same time we left, even though so much time has passed for us here. [It was something she had suspected, but hearing the timing confirmed from Ekko was a bit of a relief. Her family (or what was left of it) wasn't missing her, worried in her absence. She would still be able to go home and help fix things, in the aftermath of Silco and the chaos Jinx caused.]
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You say I was here before...How long was my stay last time?
[Genuinely curious how time worked here in Aldrip; His biggest fear was leaving behind those who needed him back home without his support. As Caitlyn continued to lay out the events after their last interactions with each other, Ekko stays quiet as he listens intently. A solemn sigh escapes his parted lips when she mentions the fact that she wasn't exactly sure why Jinx killed Silco but alluded to the fact the other had snapped after Silco tried to attack Vi and acted hastily without thinking properly. It didn't surprise him really for his old confidant had become a rather reckless individual who's better judgement had been clouded by past trauma along with hew newfound father's poisonous influence swaying her decision making.
The final sentiment towards how time worked here causes him to perk up if only just a little, nodding in understanding as the tension in his shoulders eases. So whilst they dwelled here in Aldrip time remained seemingly at a stand still, a small saving grace at the very least which caused his worries to lessen if only just a little.]
I see...So Jinx snapped and made a hasty decision without thinking...Figures as much. As for Silco...He got what he deserved but it's unfortunate he's here as well.
[The tyrant had been given a second chance at life, here's hoping he didn't squander it. Ekko wasn't about to go looking for the man right about now but if he tried to make trouble for him or those he cared about the boy savior would pick right back up where he left off in Zaun and put an end to his insistent meddling. His next question might strike a bit of a cord with her given her affinity with the top siders but he was curious to know what happened next.]
So you say the Council was attacked...Do you know what became of them?
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I don't expect you to remember it. You aren't the only one to come back, with no memories of your last visit.
[She nods as he repeats what she explained. He's been very quiet, but she isn't surprised. Again, it's so much to process. And this is just scratching the surface. They might have to dig into more information at a later time, just to give him a break from all this.]
It is unfortunate. I keep tabs on him, just to make sure he's not up to too much. He's running a few businesses in town, and just reopened the Last Drop. Nothing too bad, but I don't let my guard down. [Or tried not to. Her memories were fucked up for a little while, so she wasn't paying attention for a few months. Not that she could actually do anything about it, if he did start doing something sketchy, but she could leave tips for Jerry and let them bust him.]
Vi and I mostly avoid him. Her and Jinx are doing.. alright. Most of the time. Jinx is mad at them right now, since they fought each other in this tournament thing that happened last month. [And killed each other, and both came back from the dead, but again, not wanting to load him up with too much.
But then he asked the most pivotal question, and she hesitates. She doesn't know, and it kills her, not knowing. But deep down, she knows... it didn't look good.]
I...don't know. We were all pulled here, before the damage was even accessed. I just hope-- I had a friend on the council, like I told you, Counselor Talis, but-- so was my mother.
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I don't remember anything...To think this 'Council' can alter our memories at their convenience to toy with us.
[Clearly they were powerful beings capable of unknown feats to him but one thing was for certain the boy would have to tread softly in his wake here. Ekko nods in understanding as Caitlyn laid out everything she knew in regards to Silco's dealings here, a forced smile gracing his features if only for a moment.]
Diligent as ever I see. Glad to know some things don't change around here and you haven't lost your edge, Caitlyn. You won't have to bear that burden alone any longer, I plan to keep my own tabs on him not only for our sake but everyone else trapped here with us.
[Ever playing the heroic savior, Ekko meant every word for he did not trust Silco in the slightest even if he'd met his maker and was given another chance at life here. People like him hardly ever changed and often stuck to their backwards ideologies so why would things be different here? A quizzical look is given when Caitlyn brings up the recent affairs between Vi, Jinx and her adoptive father, crossing arms over his chest shifting most of his weight onto his good leg. So they were pitted in a tournament against one another? That would be an interesting topic of discussion in the near future but was more concerned about the pressing matters they were immediately covering about their own problems back home.
His eyes bulge wide when Caitlyn reveals that her mother was part of the Council and likely there when they were attacked given her apprehensive behavior. A hand reaches out to comfort her before retracting it with a subtle nod of his head, sighing solemnly as he looks to give her some kind words to try and alleviate her worries even if he wasn't the best at this sort of thing.]
I had no idea your mother was on the Council...But...If she is anything like you her stubborn willpower shall prevail and you'll see her again soon when this is all over.
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Thank you. I'd be glad to have your help. [Especially since her other jobs had gotten busier. Her Detective Agency was growing, and with the growth of the city has come the additional jobs. And now she was helping Vi run the bar Lupin that she took over. She mostly just handled the books, but that was still a good amount of time she had to put into it to keep things right. Adding that, with monitoring the network, keeping an eye on City Hall, and keeping tabs on Silco? It was a lot for one person to do.]
I.. didn't tell any of you, purposely. I wasn't lying when I said I had a friend on the Council. Jayce Talis, the creator of Hextech, is my friend. He was sponsored by my parents during his time in the Academy. He was given a seat on the Council, just before I came down to the Undercity with Vi. [She just wanted to make sure he knew that. She wasn't lying, even if she didn't give the whole truth.]
I don't always see eye to eye with my mother. She's never liked the fact that I became an Enforcer. She would do anything to get me to follow in her footsteps, but I've never cared for that. I didn't want my investigation to get back to her. I was already pushing it, disobeying Marcus and releasing Vi. But even so... she supported me, when we got back. She helped me plead my case with the Council, even if they didn't listen.
[She sighs softly, trying not to let her emotions get the best of her. There's nothing she can do about it from here, but that still hasn't stopped her from wondering and worrying.]
I certainly hope you're right.
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[The man wasn't exactly known for his good will, save for those crooked souls of Chem Barons who lined their pockets due to his shady dealings with Shimmer and the like. Besides that he was nothing more than a silver tongued charlatan who claimed to have the best interests of Zaun in mind but caused nothing but hardship and sorrow for their people at every turn. Ekko would be damned if he just sat by idly and did not keep him in check just as he did back home, disrupting the others plans in hopes of dispatching the tyrannical ruler in due time. However; It seems as though he wouldn't have to worry about that much longer given everything Caitlyn had told him about the near future, a whole new set of problems likely to unfold in the wake of Jinx’s actions.
Ekko cannot help but blink wide in astonishment when she reveals her relationship towards the founder of Hextech, one Jayce Talis whom a mutual accomplice of theirs Heimerdinger had briefly told him about. To think she was so well connected and yet had defied her parents expectations to help his people instead, showing her true character as someone he could genuinely trust as a top sider. A simplistic wave of his hand is given in dismissal as if to ease her worries, for he didn't reveal his full intentions to just anyone himself either.]
Don't worry about it…All that matters is that you did the right thing which is more than I can say about most Piltie's. No offense, Caitlyn. You mean well for both our people I can see that.
[A solemn frown briefly crossed his features as he noted her unease talking about what the future held for her mother, moving to gently put a hand on her shoulder once more in a comforting fashion giving a reassuring squeeze.]
Best not to dwell on it. I know how hard it is to leave behind those you care about without knowing their fate. The Firelights look to me for guidance but I'm stuck here all the same.
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It's honestly been a lot, trying not to think about all this for this last year. She had it thrown in her face when that maze appeared, had to see the death and destruction herself, but she still tried to move past it. She knew it would do her no good, to linger in the unknown. And while it sometimes drove her crazy that Vi never wanted to talk about her past, she was immensely grateful that Vi did not bring any of it up, because she didn't want to talk about it either.
But here she was, opening that valve, letting out the flood gates she had been holding back in for so long now.]
At least-- [Her voice cracks a little, but she takes a deep breath when she feels his hand on her shoulder.]
At least, your return confirms that time hasn't gotten away from us. Once we find our way out of here, we can get back to them. [And hopefully, it won't be in vain. Hopefully it won't mean the last time she saw her mother alive was long in the past.]
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[Ekko would certainly be keeping an weathered eye on these businesses once he found out where and what they were. A man like Silco may seem harmless on the surface to those who don't know him but the leader of the Firelights would expose the fraud for exactly what he was eventually. Despite his untimely demise in their own world the boy wasn't about to give the villain a pass for everything he's been made to endure, along with the people who've been killed by his hand indirectly thanks to those nefarious thugs who followed him.
Caitlyn's words of reassurance in return after his own consoling makes his anxieties about this place cease a bit, nodding in agreement to her rebuttal. Slowly slipping his hand away from the girl's shoulder, a look of pure determination washed over his features. There had to be a way to get back home and escape this place, with their combined efforts they surely could find the answers they sought. Pulling out his trusted pocket watch he twirls it through the air before expertly catching it in his hand.]
Seems like time is at a standstill in Runeterra while we are here in Aldrip then…At least that is to our advantage. We’ll find a way back...Our people need us.
[Optimism shining through when it counted most for if he assumed there was no hope you're guaranteed to find none. Ekko believed the future was always what you made of it and if no one stepped up to take responsibility then you would be left destitute forever.]
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My thoughts exactly. That just leaves the problem of figuring out how to leave this place.
[It wasn't always terrible. There were good moments, at times. She's made a lot of friends, and of course, having this time with Vi has been more than she could have ever asked for. She loved her, so much, even if she hadn't dared to utter those words again. She doesn't want to lose what they've made here, even if she knows it can only be temporary. Maybe it can continue when they return, but there are so many obstacles in their way. Oil and water, is what Vi called them. Would it come to that again? And that was just running on the basis that they got a choice when this was all said and done.]
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[The corrupt man had already ravaged Zaun and instilled his immoral values to his home but Ekko would be damned if he let that happen here in Aldrip as well. He knows how the other operates, pretending to be an outstanding member of society here but in the shadows was scheming up some way to seize control of this place from the seemingly all powerful Council. Despite his lack of knowledge about their overseers they could not possibly be as bad compared to the vile tyrant who ruthlessly oversaw the Lanes, subjecting the masses to such harsh living conditions under his dictatorship ruling.
Caitlyn's latter sentiment resonates with him immensely, nodding in agreement as he sighs solemnly with a pensive look stricken over his face. There were too many people in Runeterra who relied on him to be stuck in this place and needed to find a way back to them by whatever means necessary.]
We'll find a way. We have to...For the people who need us.
[A brief pause as a flash of a sincere smile graced Ekko's features as a bit of hushed laughter erupts under his breath.]
You know we're a lot more alike than I originally thought given your status as a Piltie, Caitlyn. No offense.
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[Vi got sentenced immediately after punching Silco the first time. It was deserved, of course, and she has no doubt that Silco complained to Jerry himself, but the point still stands. Anything they deem out of line could have very serious consequences. Unless it was like the tower-- where Silco and Vi fought and killed each other. Those special occasions always seemed to bend the usual rules, and lean into the chaos.
Caitlyn nods, in solemn agreement-- at least, until Ekko's final comment. She fights back a chuckle, because that was honestly one of the last things she expected to hear from Ekko, of all people.]
None taken. I would say my actions were less extreme, but I did break someone out of prison and left a trail of chaos and destruction through the Undercity. [...most of which were thanks to Silco and his goons, but still!! So much shit happened, from the moment she stepped foot into Zaun.]
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Don't worry about me this isn't the first time I've dealt with going against the grain after all.
[Though it was kind of touching that a top sider of all people was concerned for his well being when he was so used to them not even acknowledging their existence most of the time. Caitlyn truly was an outlier in her people and hoped they could work together in the future back home to bring about peace between Piltover and Zaun. From what he's been told already they would need each other more than ever due to the circumstances at large, Silco's death and the subsequent issues of Jinx's attack on the Council likely to create civil unrest between the two nations. It would be an arduous journey but one worth fighting for, Ekko never one to back down when the going got tough and rise up against adversity.
An amused smirk forms over his lips at the mention of the chaos and carnage she had ensued in her wake within the Lanes upon arrival, tilting his head just so as the boy stuffs hands deep into his coat pockets.]
Yeah...Vi's pretty good at making a mess of things wherever she goes so I wouldn't blame yourself too much there.
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This isn't Piltover or Zaun. This isn't just "going against the grain." This place is intentionally designed to torture us for whatever they decide we're guilty of.
[Of course she cares what happens to him. He's important to Vi. While she'd like to hopefully call him a friend, she still barely knows him, but she can tell he's a good person. He means well, which is something she can't say about everyone.
And clearly he knows Vi well, judging by that statement.]
She does like to talk with her fists, doesn't she? [But she wouldn't have it any other way. Vi saved her skin many a time, in the Undercity and here. She was so strong and passionate. She tried to hide how much she cared, but Caitlyn knew. She saw through her tough facade pretty quick. She was a good person, just broken by a society that didn't care.]
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You're right...I hate admitting it but I guess we cannot just go around doing whatever the hell we want like back home to try and stop him.
[He's glad for the change in subject trying to ease the tension in his limbs as his counterpart speaks up about Vi's unorthodox methods of getting things done. A cheeky smirk crosses his lips followed in short by a bit of laughter, knowing all too well how his sisterly figure operates on any given day.]
Punch first, ask questions later. That's always been Vi's preferred way of doing things. Not that I particularly blame her though she just needs to pick her battles from time to time.
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[Even if she didn't technically have proof that the strange occurrences around here were directly due to the Council, it was a little too convenient to think it wasn't. Especially since the locals typically weren't affected, and everything happened in such a strict cycle pattern. New arrivals and sentencing happened in the same month, then the following month was usually something bad happening town wide.]
She's getting better, I think. [She says that like Vi didn't just kill Silco, but details. He killed her, too. But still.]
Speaking of Vi-- we have a place in town, if you need somewhere to stay. We have an extra room that you're welcome to. I can't imagine Vi would mind. [She would check in with Vi about it, of course, but she doubted Vi would care. Surely she would agree having Ekko close by would be nice, even if it was something short term.]
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[After Vi had been captured by the Enforcers and put behind bars whilst Jinx was taken under Silco's wing to become manipulated he was left alone to fend for himself. Instead of letting the horrors of his past consume him much like his counterpart it hardened his resolve.
At Caitlyn's offer he blinks wide a bit in astonishment, the pair of them had a place...together? He knew Vi and herself had been working in unison to get to Silco but was there something else at work between them he'd yet to realize? Whatever the case may be, Ekko nods in agreement to as a sincere smile forms over his features.]
Ya'll got a place here and everything, huh? Just long you two been here exactly?