Chapter Text
After Vi’s contract with Ionia’s Justice Department, she decided to finally settle in Piltover, closer to home. Before leaving Ionia, she was given a glowing recommendation letter, ensuring her skills wouldn't go to waste.
A week later, having secured an apartment and settled in, Vi decided it was time to visit the Piltover Sheriff's Department.
The department was a hive of activity, buzzing with case-related chatter. As she walked in, cane tapping a steady rhythm against the polished floor, she could feel the stares, a familiar sensation she mostly ignored.
Vi approached the front desk, gave her name, and was directed to Sheriff Caitlyn Kiramman's office. She navigated the maze of desks with practiced ease, her cane guiding her through the obstacles.
Caitlyn's office door was open. Vi knocked lightly and stepped inside.
Caitlyn, engrossed in a mountain of paperwork, didn't look up immediately. "Come in, come in," she said, her voice crisp and efficient. "Take a seat. I'll be with you in a moment."
Vi settled into the chair opposite Caitlyn's desk. She could hear the rustle of papers and the rhythmic scratching of a pen. After a few moments, Caitlyn finally looked up, her blue eyes sharp and assessing. In front of her was a woman with powder blue eyes, her red hair freshly shaved on her side. She sat straight, her muscles framing her entire body perfectly. The woman in front of her was beautiful… Though she looked strong. Her facial features were soft.
"Ms Lanes, right? Thank you for coming in. I've heard good things about your… unique approach to justice in Ionia." Caitlyn's gaze flickered to Vi's face, lingered for a moment, then returned to the file in front of her. She noticed Vi's unwavering focus on a point just past her shoulder, but chalked it up to nerves.
"Unique is one word for it," Vi replied, a smirk playing on her lips. "Effective is another."
Caitlyn raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "I'm sure. Now, I have a few case files here that I'd like you to review. Get a sense of the kind of work we do in Piltover." She gestured to a stack of folders on her desk.
Vi paused, her expression remaining confident. "Sheriff, would it be possible for you to read those aloud to me? Or perhaps provide them in a digital format?"
Caitlyn's eyebrows shot up. A flicker of annoyance crossed her face. "Read them aloud? Ms Lanes, I appreciate your… enthusiasm, but are you expecting me to babysit you through these files? This is a high-pressure environment. We don't have time for hand-holding."
Vi's jaw tightened slightly, but she kept her voice even. "My apologies, Sheriff. I didn't mean to impose. I can take the files home and review them with the appropriate accommodations and bring it back tomorrow."
Caitlyn, already regretting her sharp tone, softened her expression slightly. "That won't be necessary. I appreciate your… resourcefulness." She shuffled the files. "Perhaps we can discuss the general nature of the cases for now."
The conversation continued for another ten minutes, covering Vi's experience, her preferred methods, and Caitlyn's expectations. Vi answered each question with confidence and a touch of humor, subtly showcasing her skills and her unwavering commitment to justice.
Finally, Vi stood to leave. "Thank you for your time, Sheriff. I look forward to hearing from you." She turned, her cane tapping lightly on the floor as she moved towards the door.
It was then, as Vi turned, that Caitlyn saw it clearly. The way her eyes didn't quite focus, the subtle reliance on her cane, the practiced ease with which she navigated the room.
Caitlyn's eyes widened in realization. She hadn't noticed. She had been so focused on the recommendation letter and Vi's reputation that she had completely missed the obvious.
"Ms. Lanes," Caitlyn said, her voice laced with a mixture of surprise and regret. "Wait."
Vi paused, turning back towards Caitlyn, a knowing smile on her face. "Yes, Sheriff?"
"Ms Lanes, wait. I... I owe you an apology. My earlier remark was incredibly insensitive. I am truly sorry."
"It's alright, Sheriff," Vi said, Reassuring her. "I'm used to it." She’s used to it because her eyes are the way she was before, so it was harder for people to notice her disability without being up close.
"No, it's not alright. It was unprofessional and disrespectful. I should have been more observant and more considerate. Your history and reputation is excellent. Piltover would be more than honored to have you as our lead negotiator.”
"It's an offer you deserve, Ms. Lanes. You've earned it. Think it over, but I hope you'll accept." Caitlyn extended her hand. "Welcome to the Piltover Sheriff's Department."
Vi grasped Caitlyn's hand, her grip firm and confident. "Thanks, Sheriff. I think I'm gonna like it here."
The Piltover Sheriff's Department had settled into a new rhythm. Vi, now officially the lead negotiator, had brought a fresh energy to the office. Her unconventional methods and sharp wit often ruffled feathers, but her results spoke for themselves. Caitlyn, initially hesitant, found herself increasingly relying on Vi's insights and trusting her judgment.
Their interactions had become more frequent and more relaxed. Though it was mostly about cases.
Caitlyn, a renowned marksman, was at the department's shooting range, practicing her aim. She was precise and methodical, each shot hitting the center of the target.
Vi, leaning against the doorway, watched with amusement. "Showoff," she teased.
Caitlyn lowered her weapon, a slight smile on her face. "Just maintaining my skills, Ms. Lanes. Care to try?"
Vi chuckled. "Me? With a gun? I hope this is not a way to show me what I can’t do in life."
“No, of course not. Though there are many blind shooters if you must know.” Over the course of the weeks she’s noticed that Vi is not shy nor insecure of her disability. Vi was also very cocky which Caitlyn has challenged herself to lower Vi’s ego.
“Take a shot, Sheriff.”
Vi stepped forward, closing her eyes. She took a deep breath, listening to the sounds of the range, the hum of the ventilation system, the distant chatter of the other officers. She focused on the scent of gunpowder and metal, the feel of the air on her skin.
And Caitlyn fired.
After a moment, she pointed towards the target. "The shot is slightly high and to the left. About half an inch off center."
Caitlyn walked over to the target, examining it closely. Her eyes widened in surprise. "You're right," she said, incredulously. "How did you do that?"
Vi shrugged. "I told you, Sheriff. I have my own ways." That made Caitlyn wonder if Vi was perhaps faking it.
Caitlyn was working late, poring over paperwork. Vi walked in, carrying two mugs of coffee. Already memorised the locations and steps in the department.
"Long night?" Vi asked, handing Caitlyn a mug.
"Tell me about it," Caitlyn said, sighing. "I swear, the paperwork in this department is enough to drive anyone insane." She complained while her fingers massaged the bridge of her nose.
"I can imagine," Vi said, leaning against the desk. "Need a hand?"
"I appreciate the offer, Vi, but I don't think paperwork is exactly your forte."
"Maybe not," Vi said, grinning. "But I'm a good listener. Sometimes, just talking things through can help."
Caitlyn hesitated, then nodded. "Alright, Vi. Have a seat. And prepare to be bored."
As Caitlyn talked, Vi listened patiently, offering occasional words of encouragement and support. She didn't offer any solutions, but her presence was enough to ease Caitlyn's stress.
A few days later, Caitlyn found Vi at the department's small, rarely used sparring room, practicing her punches on a heavy bag. The rhythmic thud of Vi's fists filled the room.
Caitlyn watched for a moment, impressed by Vi's power and precision.
While punching, she noticed a looming feeling behind her.
"You're staring," Vi stated, not turning away from the heavy bag. Her voice was even, almost casual, but there was an undeniable undercurrent of awareness.
Caitlyn jumped, startled. The comment, delivered without Vi even glancing in her direction, sent a shiver down her spine. How could she know ? The thought that Vi might be faking her blindness, or at least exaggerating it, resurfaced with renewed force.
"I… I was just admiring your form," Caitlyn said, trying to sound nonchalant. "You're quite skilled."
Vi finally stopped punching, turning her head in Caitlyn's general direction, though her eyes didn't quite meet Caitlyn's gaze. "Is that all, Sheriff? Or is there something else on your mind?"
Caitlyn hesitated. She knew she was treading on dangerous ground, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't adding up. "It's just… I'm still trying to understand how you manage. How you navigate the world, how you… function so effectively, despite your… condition."
Vi's expression hardened slightly. "My 'condition' doesn't define me, Caitlyn. I manage just fine, thank you very much."
"I didn't mean to offend you," Caitlyn said quickly, regretting her choice of words. "I'm just curious. It's… remarkable."
Vi was silent for a moment, then sighed. "Look, Caitlyn, I'm not going to give you a detailed explanation of how I compensate for my lack of sight. It's personal, and frankly, it's exhausting to constantly have to justify myself to people who can't understand."
"I understand," Caitlyn said softly, though she wasn't sure she truly did. "I just… I want to be a good partner to you, Vi. And I can't do that if I don't understand you."
Vi's face softened slightly. She knew Caitlyn meant well, that she was genuinely trying to connect. But there were some things that couldn't be explained, some experiences that couldn't be shared. "Then trust me, Caitlyn. Trust that I know what I'm doing. Trust that I'm capable. And stop staring at my eyes like you're trying to solve a puzzle."
Caitlyn felt a pang of guilt. But was interrupted by Vi’s punches on the bag, the thin coat of sweat sticking on her tattooed back, no, she can’t be thinking about that right now.
Caitlyn cleared her throat, trying to regain her composure. "Right. Trust. Got it." She turned to leave, feeling flustered and strangely disoriented. "I should… get back to my paperwork."
"Suit yourself, Sheriff," Vi said, her voice slightly muffled by the thud of her fists on the bag.
Caitlyn hurried out of the sparring room, a whirlwind of conflicting emotions swirling inside her.
The next morning, Caitlyn arrived at the office early, determined to put her feelings for Vi aside and focus on her work. But she couldn't shake the image of Vi from her mind, the way her muscles flexed as she punched the bag, the intensity in her unfocused gaze.
She sighed, realizing that she needed a distraction. "Coffee," she muttered to herself. "That's what I need."
As she headed towards the break room, she saw Vi standing by the coffee machine, her brow furrowed in concentration.
"Good morning, Vi," Caitlyn said, trying to sound casual.
"Morning, Caitlyn," Vi replied, her voice slightly strained. "fuck, this machine is giving me trouble again."
Caitlyn watched as Vi fumbled with the coffee pot, her movements hesitant and uncertain. She realized that Vi, despite her strength and confidence, was still vulnerable, still reliant on others for help with everyday tasks.
"Here, let me," Caitlyn said, stepping forward. She gently took the coffee pot from Vi's hands and quickly brewed a fresh batch of coffee.
"Thanks, Cupcake," Vi said, her voice softer now. "I appreciate it."
"No problem," Caitlyn said, pouring two cups of coffee. She handed one to Vi, careful not to spill any.
As they stood there, sipping their coffee in silence, Caitlyn couldn't help but notice the small details about Vi, the way her hair was slightly tousled, the faint scar above her eyebrow. She found herself wanting to reach out and touch her, to smooth her hair, to trace the lines of her face.
"So," Vi said, breaking the silence, "anything interesting on the agenda for today?"
Caitlyn shrugged. "Just the usual. Paperwork, meetings, maybe a few petty crimes to solve. Nothing exciting."
"Sounds thrilling," Vi said, her voice laced with sarcasm.
“I wouldn't mind a little excitement every now and then."
"Careful what you wish for, Sheriff," Vi said, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You might just get it."
As they finished their coffee, Caitlyn felt a sense of connection with Vi, a feeling that they were more than just partners, that they were friends.
Later that day, Caitlyn was poring over a particularly complex case file, trying to decipher a series of coded messages. She was so engrossed in her work that she didn't notice Vi enter her office until she spoke.
"Having fun?" Vi asked, leaning against the doorframe.
Caitlyn sighed, rubbing her temples. "Not particularly. This case is a real headache. I can't seem to make heads or tails of these codes."
Vi pushed herself off the doorframe and walked towards Caitlyn's desk. "Maybe I can help," she said, her voice casual.
Caitlyn looked up at Vi, surprised. "You? With codes? I didn't know you had a knack for cryptography."
Vi chuckled. "Let's just say I've had some experience with… unconventional communication methods. What have you got?"
Caitlyn hesitated, then pushed the case file towards Vi. "See what you can make of it. I've been staring at it for hours, and it's all just a jumble of letters and numbers to me."
Vi ran her fingers over the pages, her brow furrowed in concentration. She closed her eyes for a moment, as if trying to visualize the codes in her mind.
"Interesting," she said after a few minutes. "These aren't just random letters and numbers. They're based on a modified version of the Undercity cipher."
Caitlyn's eyes widened in surprise. "The Undercity cipher? How do you know that?"
Vi shrugged. "Like I said, I've had some experience. Give me a few more minutes. I think I can crack this."
As Vi worked, Caitlyn watched her with a mixture of admiration and fascination. She was amazed by Vi's intelligence, her resourcefulness, her ability to see things that others couldn't. And she couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude towards her, for helping her with the case, for being her partner, for being her friend.
After a few more minutes of intense concentration, Vi finally cracked the code. "Got it," she announced, a triumphant grin on her face. "The message reads: 'Meeting point: The Serpent's Tail, midnight. Bring the merchandise.'"
Caitlyn's eyes widened in excitement. "The Serpent's Tail? That's a notorious dive in the Undercity. This could be our break."
"It could also be a trap," Vi cautioned. "We need to be careful. The Serpent's Tail is crawling with lowlifes and thugs."
"I know," Caitlyn said, her mind already racing with possibilities. "But we can't pass up this opportunity. We need to go undercover, infiltrate the meeting, and catch these guys in the act."
"Undercover, huh?" Vi said, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Sounds like fun. But I’m not exactly the one who’ll be able to catch what they are doing.”
"I'll go with you," she blurted out. "We'll pose as… a couple. Looking to buy some merchandise."
Vi raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on her lips. "A couple, huh? You think you can pull that off, Sheriff? You're not exactly known for your… rough-and-tumble charm."
Caitlyn felt a blush creep up her neck. "I can be convincing when I need to be," she said defensively. "Besides, it's the only way to keep you safe. I'm not letting you go down there alone."
Vi's expression softened, and she reached out and gently touched Caitlyn's hand. "I appreciate that, Cupcake."
Caitlyn squeezed Vi's hand in return. "I want to be there for you. And besides," she added with a playful smile, "I wouldn't miss this for the world. It's not every day I get to dress up in disguise and go undercover in the Undercity."
Vi chuckled. "Alright, Sheriff. You're on. But you're going to have to ditch the fancy clothes and the uptown attitude. Down there, you're just another face in the crowd. Can you handle that?"
"I can handle anything," Caitlyn said, her voice full of determination. Oh shit, faking as a couple?
The Serpent's Tail was everything Caitlyn had imagined and more – a dimly lit, smoke-filled den of vice and desperation. The air was thick with the smell of cheap liquor, sweat, and something vaguely chemical. Rough-looking characters huddled in corners, their faces obscured by shadows, while a discordant melody drifted from a battered piano in the corner.
Caitlyn, trying to maintain her composure, clung close to Vi as they navigated the crowded room. The borrowed clothes felt foreign and uncomfortable, but she tried to project an air of nonchalance, mimicking the swagger she had seen in Vi's movements.
"Stay close," Vi murmured, her voice low and husky. "And let me do the talking."
They approached the bar, a grimy counter manned by a burly man with a shaved head and a menacing glare. Vi leaned in, her voice barely audible above the din.
"We're looking for a contact," she said. "Someone who can help us acquire some… merchandise."
The bartender eyed them suspiciously, his gaze lingering on Caitlyn's face. "What kind of merchandise?" he growled.
"The kind that makes people disappear," Vi replied, her voice laced with a dangerous edge.
The bartender grunted and nodded towards a back room, shrouded in shadows. "He's waiting for you."
As they made their way towards the back room, Caitlyn felt a knot of anxiety tighten in her stomach. This was it. The moment of truth.
Suddenly, a group of heavily armed thugs emerged from the back room, blocking their path.
"Hold it right there," one of them barked, his hand resting on the hilt of a knife. "Where do you think you're going?"
Vi tensed, her fists clenching. "We have business to discuss," she said, her voice dangerously low.
"Not without paying the toll," the thug sneered.
Caitlyn's hand instinctively moved towards her concealed weapon, but Vi stopped her with a subtle squeeze.
"We don't want any trouble," Vi said, her voice deceptively calm. "We're just here to make a deal."
"A deal requires respect," the thug said, stepping closer to Caitlyn. "And respect requires… payment."
He reached out to grab Caitlyn's arm, but before he could make contact, Vi acted. In a swift, fluid motion, she grabbed Caitlyn's face and pulled her into a kiss.
Caitlyn's mind reeled. One moment, she was facing down a group of armed thugs, the next, she was locked in a passionate embrace with Vi. Her lips were soft and surprisingly gentle, and Caitlyn found herself momentarily lost in the sensation. She'd always wondered how that scar on her lip felt and how her lips tasted.
The kiss was brief, but intense. And Caitlyn was snapped out of it once Vi pulled back, her eyes blazing with defiance. The thugs, momentarily stunned by the unexpected display, hesitated.
"We're together," Vi said, her voice dripping with possessiveness. "And we don't appreciate being interrupted. Now, are you going to let us pass, or do we need to make a scene?"
The thugs, clearly unnerved by Vi's boldness, stepped aside.
"Go ahead," the leader grumbled. "But don't say I didn't warn you."
As they walked towards the back room, Caitlyn's heart pounded in her chest. She couldn't believe what had just happened. Vi had kissed her. In front of everyone. And it felt… amazing. Caitlyn was know for her
"Sorry about that," Vi said, her voice slightly breathless. "I had to think fast. It was the only way to get them to back down."
Caitlyn stared at Vi, her mind still reeling. "It's okay," she managed to say, her voice barely a whisper. "Really. It was… effective."
The back room was even more squalid than the bar, a cramped space filled with overturned crates, flickering candles, and the lingering scent of decay. Three figures sat around a makeshift table, their faces obscured by the shadows cast by their wide-brimmed hats.
"You're late," one of the figures said, his voice raspy and menacing.
"We had a slight… delay," Vi replied, her voice cool and collected. "But we're here now. Let's talk business."
The figures exchanged glances, their eyes glinting in the dim light.
"We heard you're looking for something special," the first figure said. "Something that can't be found anywhere else."
"That's right," Vi said. "We need weapons. Powerful weapons. Enough to start a war."
The figures chuckled, a dry, humorless sound.
"We can provide you with anything you desire," the first figure said. "For the right price."
"We're prepared to pay," Vi said. "But we need to see the merchandise first."
The figures nodded, and one of them gestured towards a crate in the corner. "Take a look," he said. "But be warned… these weapons are not for the faint of heart."
Vi approached the crate, her senses on high alert. Caitlyn followed close behind, her hand resting on the butt of her concealed pistol.
As Vi opened the crate, Caitlyn gasped. Inside, nestled in a bed of straw, were several gleaming rifles, modified with intricate targeting systems and high-capacity magazines. These were no ordinary weapons. They were prototypes, experimental models that had been stolen from Piltover's most secure research labs.
"These are… impressive," Vi said, her voice carefully neutral. "But what about ammunition? We need something that can penetrate any armor."
The figures smiled, revealing rows of yellowed teeth.
"We have just what you need," the first figure said. "But it comes at a price. A price that you may not be willing to pay."
"What do you mean?" Vi asked, her eyes narrowed.
"We need a favor," the first figure said. "A favor that will require you to… eliminate a rival."
Caitlyn's heart skipped a beat. This was a test. They were trying to gauge their loyalty, to see if they were willing to cross the line.
"Who do you want us to kill?" Vi asked, her voice betraying nothing.
"His name is Marcus," the first figure said. "He's a local enforcer. He's been interfering with our business. We want him gone."
Caitlyn knew Marcus. He was a low-level thug, but he was also a valuable informant for the Piltover Enforcers. Killing him would be a betrayal of everything she stood for.
"We'll think about it," Vi said, her voice noncommittal. "We need to discuss it."
"You don't have much time," the first figure said. "Marcus will be at the Crimson Dagger tonight. If you want these weapons, you know what to do."
Vi nodded and closed the crate. "We'll be in touch," she said.
As they turned to leave, the first figure spoke again.
"And one more thing," he said, his voice laced with menace. "We know who you are, Sheriff. We know about your little… relationship with the enforcer. Don't try to double-cross us. We're watching you."
Caitlyn's blood ran cold. They knew. They knew everything.
As they hurried out of the Serpent's Tail, Caitlyn couldn't shake the feeling that they were walking into a trap. They had the weapons, but they were also caught in a web of deceit and danger. And the kiss… the kiss had only made things more complicated.
Outside, the air was marginally cleaner, but the oppressive atmosphere of the Undercity still clung to them. Caitlyn pulled Vi into a narrow alley, her mind racing.
"We can't kill Marcus," Caitlyn said, her voice tight with conviction. "He's an informant, and even if he wasn't, I won't become an assassin for these thugs."
Vi leaned against the grimy brick wall, her expression unreadable. "I wasn't planning on it, Cupcake. But they're not going to just let us walk away. They know who you are, and they definitely know who I am. We're in a bind."
"We could arrest them," Caitlyn suggested, though she knew it sounded naive even to her own ears. "Bring the Enforcers down here, raid the place…"
Vi snorted, then winced, subtly adjusting her position against the wall. The uneven surface was digging into her back. "You think the Enforcers are going to risk a full-scale war with these guys? They're small-time, but they're connected. Besides," she added, her voice dropping, "you really want to expose your little undercover operation to the whole department? Especially after that stunt I pulled inside?"
Caitlyn flushed, remembering the kiss. It felt like a lifetime ago, yet the memory of Vi's lips on hers was still vivid, still unsettling.
"So what do we do?" Caitlyn asked, her voice laced with frustration. "We can't kill Marcus, we can't arrest them… are we just supposed to hand over the weapons and pretend this never happened?"
Vi pushed herself off the wall, a glint of determination in her eyes. "We're going to play them, Sheriff. We're going to make them think we killed Marcus, and then we're going to use those weapons to bring them down."
"How?" Caitlyn asked, skeptical. "They'll want proof. They'll want to see a body."
"Then we'll give them a body," Vi said, a grim smile spreading across her face. "Just not Marcus”
She had to rely heavily on Caitlyn's descriptions and directions. The process was slow and frustrating, filled with near misses and misunderstandings.
"Are you sure this is the right alley?" Vi asked, her voice tight with impatience as Caitlyn led her through a maze of twisting streets. "It smells like a skag den, and I keep tripping over… something."
"It's the right alley, Vi," Caitlyn said, trying to keep her own frustration in check. "Just a little further."
Even gathering information proved difficult. Vi couldn't discreetly observe potential informants or gauge their trustworthiness. Caitlyn had to act as her eyes, relaying details and impressions, but Vi knew that Caitlyn's privileged background made her a less-than-reliable judge of character in the Undercity.
As night fell, they found themselves at the Crimson Dagger, a seedy bar even more disreputable than the Serpent's Tail. Marcus was there, as expected, holding court with a group of equally unsavory characters.
Vi leaned against a wall near the entrance, trying to memorize the layout of the bar based on the sounds and smells. The cacophony of voices, the clinking of glasses, and the ever-present scent of stale beer made it difficult to focus.
Caitlyn approached, her voice low. "Alright, I've made contact with Marcus. He's agreed to meet me outside."
Vi nodded, trying to conceal her anxiety. She hated relying on Caitlyn, but she had no choice. "Remember the plan. Get him to the alley behind the Lucky Grenade. I'll meet you there."
"What exactly are you going to be doing?" Caitlyn asked, her voice laced with concern. "I still don't know what you're planning."
Vi hesitated. "I'm going to find us a convincing… substitute. Just trust me, Cupcake. And be careful."
As Caitlyn disappeared into the crowd, Vi felt a wave of nausea wash over her. She was out of her element, relying on a partner who didn't fully understand the dangers of the Undercity, and operating with a handicap that made every task ten times harder.
She closed her eyes, trying to calm her racing heart. She had to focus. She had to trust Caitlyn. And she had to find a way to pull this off, even if it meant pushing herself to her absolute limit.
Later that night, after everything was said and done – the arms dealers apprehended, the evidence secured, and the fake deadman safely paid off and disappeared back into the Undercity – Vi and Caitlyn stood on the edge of Zaun, the Piltover skyline looming in the distance.
This case alone was the most action she’d had in years, and she'd be lying if she said it wasn’t too much for her. Her head was throbbing worse and worse as she walked through the streets with Caitlyn, but her determination was stronger so she pushed through. Now, as they stood at the border between Zaun and Piltover, she knew she was going to need a big break.
“Good night, Sheriff,” Vi said to Caitlyn, her voice rough.
“Are you sure you don’t need a ride? It’s late already.” Caitlyn's offer hung in the air, laced with genuine concern.
Vi wanted to reject the offer so bad. It felt weird accepting help, even though she lived in Piltover now. But the throbbing in her head was getting worse, and she really just wanted to be horizontal.
Swallowing her pride, Vi mumbled, "Yeah, alright. A ride would be… good." She hated admitting she was struggling, even though Caitlyn could probably see right through her anyway.
Caitlyn's expression softened, a hint of relief flickering in her eyes. "Come on, then. My car's just over here."
As they walked towards Caitlyn's vehicle, Vi tried to shake off the feeling of being out of place. She lived in Piltover now, she had her own apartment. But after a night in the Undercity, it still felt like she was wearing someone else's clothes.
Once inside the car, Vi leaned back against the seat, closing her eyes. The silence was thick, but not uncomfortable. She knew Caitlyn wasn't going to push her to talk, and for that, she was grateful.
As Caitlyn navigated the streets of Piltover, Vi focused on breathing, trying to ease the pounding in her head. It wasn't a long drive to her apartment, but every block felt like a mile. All she wanted was to get home, take a shower, and crash.
"Thanks, Cupcake," Vi said as Caitlyn pulled up outside her building. "I owe you one."
Caitlyn smiled faintly. "Just get some rest, Vi. We can catch up later."
Vi nodded, already reaching for the door handle. "Yeah, later."
The Piltover Enforcers headquarters was bustling with activity as usual. Caitlyn, ever the picture of composure, was meticulously reviewing case files at her desk. She glanced up when she noticed Vi hadn't arrived yet, but then remembered she'd received a call from her earlier that morning saying she wouldn't be able to come in due to sickness.
It wasn't a huge deal, people got sick, but Caitlyn couldn't help but feel a little concerned. She and Vi had only been partners for a few weeks, and while they'd already been through a lot together, Caitlyn didn't know her that well. Still, Vi seemed the type to push through anything, so calling in sick at all suggested she wasn't feeling great.
After a while, deciding she was being ridiculous, Caitlyn tried to focus on her work, but she couldn't shake the feeling that she should at least check in. It was the polite thing to do, right? So, during her lunch break, she grabbed a container of soup from a nearby cafe – chicken noodle, classic comfort food – and headed towards Vi's apartment.
Arriving at Vi's building, Caitlyn took the elevator up to her floor and hesitated before the door. Was this a bad idea? She barely knew Vi. But, she reasoned, a quick "get well soon" couldn't hurt. She knocked.
After a moment, she heard some shuffling inside. The door opened a crack, revealing Vi peering out, looking significantly less energetic than usual. Her hair was a mess, and she was squinting as if the light bothered her.
“Care to let me in?” Caitlyn asked.
Vi opened the door further for Caitlyn to walk in.
Caitlyn stepped inside Vi's apartment. The air was still and heavy, and the curtains were drawn, casting the room in a dim, grey light. It was clear Vi wasn't exaggerating about the light sensitivity.
"Sorry about the mess," Vi mumbled, gesturing vaguely around the room. "Wasn't expecting company."
Caitlyn surveyed the scene. It was plain. The house was organized with percision, everything was placed in order. The apartment was nothing but a place to rest with no touch of anything personal, there were no decorations nor was there any furniture that was not needed.
"Don't worry about it," Caitlyn said, her voice soft. "So, where's the best place for this soup? So it doesn't go bad." She gestured to the container of soup she was still holding.
Vi pointed towards the kitchen with a weary wave of her hand. "Just... put it on the counter. Thanks." She shuffled towards the living room and slumped onto the couch, pulling a blanket over herself.
Caitlyn walked into the small kitchen and placed the soup on the counter. She opened the fridge to see if there was anything else she could offer, but it was mostly empty save for some condiments and a lone, sad-looking orange. She closed the fridge and returned to the living room.
Vi was lying on the couch, her face buried in a pillow. Caitlyn could hear her breathing was shallow and uneven.
"Look, Vi," Caitlyn said, keeping her voice gentle. "I know we haven't known each other for very long, but I'm a little worried. You don't seem like the type to let a little sickness keep you down."
Vi groaned into the pillow. "It's just a migraine," she mumbled, her voice muffled. "I get them sometimes. Just gotta wait it out."
"Okay," Caitlyn said slowly. "Well, I'm here now. Is there anything at all I can do? Even just to make sure you don't need anything?"
Vi shifted slightly on the couch, but didn't lift her head. "It’s ok, I’m fine.”
"Vi?" Caitlyn asked softly. "Are you sure you're okay? You're really pale."
Vi didn't respond.
Caitlyn's concern deepened. She took a step closer to the couch and gently touched Vi's shoulder.
"Vi?" she repeated, a little louder this time.
Vi flinched at the touch and let out a small whimper.
"Okay," Caitlyn said, her voice firm but still gentle. "That's it. I'm calling a doctor. This doesn't seem like just a migraine, Vi."
"This doesn't seem like just a migraine, Vi," Caitlyn said, her hand hovering near her pocket where her phone was.
Vi finally stirred, weakly swatting at Caitlyn's hand. "No! Don't... don't call anyone." Her voice was strained and raspy.
"Vi, you're not okay," Caitlyn insisted, gently but firmly pushing Vi's hand away. "You're unresponsive, you're clearly in pain, and you're paler than I've ever seen anyone."
"It's just a migraine, Caitlyn," Vi mumbled, trying to sit up, but failing and collapsing back against the pillows. "I get them sometimes. This one's just... really bad. No doctors. Please."
Caitlyn hesitated, studying Vi's face. She looked awful, but Vi was adamant about not wanting medical attention. Caitlyn knew Vi wasn't one to complain, so if she said it was just a migraine, maybe it was. Still, the paleness and brief unresponsiveness worried her.
"Okay," Caitlyn said slowly, withdrawing her hand from her pocket. "No doctors. But you have to promise me that if anything gets worse – if you get a fever, feel numb, can't speak, or the pain gets even worse – you'll let me call someone, okay?"
Vi groaned, squeezing her eyes shut. "Fine," she relented, her voice barely audible.
Caitlyn nodded. "Okay. Then let's try to make you comfortable. Have you taken anything for it?"
"Yeah," Vi mumbled. "Took some... stuff... earlier. Not helping."
"Alright," Caitlyn said, looking around the dimly lit room. "Well, what usually helps? A cold compress? Water? Just tell me what you need."
Vi shifted slightly on the couch. "Cold compress... would be good," she mumbled.
Caitlyn went to the kitchen, dampened a clean cloth with cold water, and returned to the living room. She gently placed the compress on Vi's forehead.
"How's that?" Caitlyn asked softly.
Vi sighed, a little more relaxed this time. "Better," she mumbled. "Thanks, Cupcake."
Caitlyn smiled. "You're welcome. Now, is there anything else I can do? Maybe some water? Or should I just let you rest?"
Caitlyn's heart ached for Vi. The thought of her living in a world of blurry shapes and shadows, unable to fully appreciate the beauty around her, was incredibly sad. She reached out and gently took Vi's hand in hers, squeezing it softly.
"I'm here, Vi," she said, her voice full of warmth and sincerity. "And I'm not going anywhere."
Vi squeezed Caitlyn's hand back, a silent acknowledgment. The warmth of Caitlyn's hand, the steadiness of her presence, it was all… grounding. Exhaustion tugged at her, the lingering ache in her head a dull throb rather than a sharp stab.
"Thanks, Cupcake," Vi mumbled, her eyelids feeling heavy. "Really. 'Preciate it."
She didn't say anything more, simply closed her eyes and let herself drift. The darkness was welcome, the absence of pain even more so. She clung to the feeling of Caitlyn's hand in hers, a lifeline in the swirling darkness. Sleep claimed her quickly, pulling her down into its depths.
When Vi woke, it was to a strange sensation: a soft weight pressing against her side, a gentle warmth radiating through her. Disoriented, she blinked, trying to focus her blurry vision. It took a moment to register what she was seeing – or rather, feeling .
Caitlyn.
Caitlyn was sprawled half on top of her, her head nestled against Vi's shoulder, her arm draped across her waist. Her breathing was deep and even, the picture of peaceful slumber.
A jolt of surprise, followed by a wave of… something else, washed over Vi. She carefully shifted, testing the waters, but Caitlyn didn't stir. She was out cold.
Vi stared (or rather, strained to see) at the sleeping form of Caitlyn. Her dark hair was splayed across Vi's shoulder, tickling her skin. Her face was relaxed, all the usual tension gone from her brow. She looked… vulnerable.
Carefully, she reached up a hand, her fingers hovering just above Caitlyn's cheek. She hesitated for a moment, then gently brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face.
As if that small touch was a trigger, Caitlyn stirred. Her eyelids fluttered, then slowly opened, revealing those striking cerulean eyes. For a moment, she looked disoriented, her gaze unfocused. Then, recognition dawned, and her eyes widened slightly.
She found herself staring directly into Vi's blurry gaze. Or, at least, what she assumed was a stare. It was hard to tell with Vi's vision being what it was.
"Vi?" she mumbled, her voice thick with sleep. "What time is it?"
Vi's smile widened slightly. "Dunno," she said, her voice a low rumble.
Caitlyn blinked, then realized the position they were in. Her cheeks flushed crimson as she scrambled to sit up, disentangling herself from Vi.
"Oh, shit, I'm so sorry," she stammered, smoothing down her rumpled clothes. "I didn't mean to fall asleep on you."
Vi chuckled, propping herself up on her elbows. "S'okay, Cupcake," she said. "Felt kinda nice, actually."
A beat of silence hung in the air, thick with unspoken feelings. Caitlyn fidgeted, avoiding Vi's gaze.
"So," Vi said, breaking the silence. "Since you're awake... I got a question for you."
Caitlyn looked up, her cerulean eyes meeting Vi's blurry ones. "What is it?"
Vi hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. "You said... you said you'd describe yourself to me. So I could... see you, in my head."
Caitlyn's heart skipped a beat. She had almost forgotten about that offer. Now, with Vi looking at her with that hopeful, vulnerable expression, she knew she couldn't back down.
"I did," she said softly. "And I will. What do you want to know?"
Vi was quiet for a moment, then a small smile touched her lips. "Start with your hair," she said. "You said it was dark. How dark?"
Caitlyn ran a hand through her disheveled locks. "It's... dark navy," she said. "Almost black, but with a hint of blue in the light."
Vi nodded slowly, picturing it in her mind. Dark navy, almost black. It sounded… striking. "And your eyes?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.
"My skin is fair," she began, "My cheekbones are... high, I suppose. My nose is straight, maybe a little long. And my lips are... well, they're just lips, I guess." She felt incredibly awkward.
Vi chuckled softly. "Just lips? Come on, Cupcake, give me something to work with. Are they thin? Full? Do they have a Cupid's bow thing going on?"
Then Caitlyn gulped and her lips came crashing onto Vi’s.
Vi’s brain shut down for a second, completely shocked, but soon gave in to the passionate kiss. Devouring her lips, feeling every inch of it. Her hands, which had been resting in her lap, instinctively reached up, her fingers tangling in Caitlyn's dark navy hair. The kiss was everything Vi hadn't dared to imagine: fierce, tender, and utterly consuming.
Caitlyn's lips were soft, yet firm, and the taste of her was intoxicating. A jolt of electricity surged through Vi's body, awakening every nerve ending. She deepened the kiss, her tongue dancing with Caitlyn's, exploring the contours of her mouth.
The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the sensation of their lips locked together, the warmth of their bodies pressed close.
Finally, gasping for breath, they broke apart, their foreheads touching. Vi's vision swam, not just from her usual blurriness, but from the sheer intensity of the kiss.
"Wow," Vi breathed, her voice hoarse. "Cupcake... I..."
Caitlyn bit her lip, her gaze darting between Vi's eyes. "I'm sorry," she blurted out, her voice trembling slightly. "I shouldn't have done that. It was inappropriate. I..."
Vi gently placed a finger on Caitlyn's lips, silencing her. "Don't," she said softly. "Don't apologize. It was... amazing."
Caitlyn’s hand cupped Vi’s cheeks, slowly brushing over the tattoo on her cheekbones. And Vi, for the first time in a long time, leaned into the touch. She doesn’t recall being this intimate with anyone in a long time. The gentle caress was a welcome sensation, a stark contrast to the rough and tumble life she usually led.
“My turn now,” Caitlyn said, her voice soft but firm. Though she knew Vi hated to open up, she felt their connection was deeper than just colleagues now. This kiss had changed something.
Vi’s face seemed to tense up a bit, but softened soon, “Fine, what would you like to know?”
“How much do you see?” The question was straightforward, as Caitlyn knew Vi was not the person who liked to circle around things.
Vi hesitated, the warmth of Caitlyn's hand on her cheek doing little to ease the familiar discomfort that came with this topic. The kiss had thrown her off balance, made her feel things she hadn't allowed herself to feel in years. Now, Caitlyn was asking her to reveal a vulnerability she usually kept hidden behind a wall of sarcasm and bravado.
"It's... complicated," Vi said, her voice low. "Like trying to look at the world through a shattered lens. Everything's distorted, fragmented."
Caitlyn's thumb gently stroked Vi's cheekbone. "Can you see shapes? Light? Movement?"
"Yeah," Vi said. "Shapes, shadows, movement... I can navigate when up close, mostly. But... details... they're all a blur. Unless the light's just right, or something's really close, I mostly see impressions."
"And colors?" Caitlyn asked, her voice gentle.
Vi hesitated again. "Only the really bright ones," she admitted. "Like... neon signs. Or... well, bright things catch my eye more easily."
Caitlyn nodded, understanding. "So, it's more about brightness than specific colors?"
"Pretty much," Vi confirmed. "Subtlety is lost on me."
They sat in silence for a moment, the connection between them palpable. The kiss had opened a door, allowing Caitlyn to see a glimpse of the vulnerability that Vi usually kept hidden. And Vi, in turn, had allowed Caitlyn to see her, to touch her, in a way she hadn't allowed anyone in a long time.