Chapter 65: The Future of Zaun Begins Here
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"The Machine Herald..."
Viktor absorbed the information contained in Link Star's words.
"That's right, the Machine Herald!"
Link nodded, adding, "Everything that arcane magic can achieve, science can achieve as well!"
"Arcane can heal diseases and grant rebirth—so can scientific medical technology!"
"Arcane can cultivate land and yield bountiful harvests—so can scientific agricultural techniques!"
"Arcane can move mountains and fill seas—so can scientific engineering!"
"Everything arcane can do, science can do as well. Not only that, but science allows knowledge, technology, and experience to circulate within society, driving progress for all."
"But can arcane do that?" Link countered, looking at Viktor. "Do you have the confidence to let the power, knowledge, and experience of arcane flow freely in society?"
Viktor shook his head honestly. "I can't do that."
"Even if you could, Viktor, there would be many who wouldn't let you," Link sighed. "Throughout history, there have been countless wars caused by the misuse of arcane and magic."
"The founders of Demacia, who are locked in constant conflict with Noxus, were victims of mage persecution!"
"Not to mention the mages who lurk in the shadows, using arcane and magic to create terror and manipulate the world!"
"The path you've chosen is fraught with difficulties and resistance."
"That's why the only way forward is through science. Use arcane to propel scientific advancement, become the Machine Herald who represents science, and you'll achieve your vision."
Link's eyes shone with encouragement as he extended his hand to Viktor. "Join us, Viktor!"
Viktor's gaze fell on Link's outstretched hand. He glanced back at Jayce, who scratched his head, thought for a moment, and then sighed. Kneeling beside Viktor, Jayce placed a hand on his partner's shoulder.
"Brother, we're a team. I respect every decision and idea you have."
"Besides, it's always been you supporting me from behind, letting me bask in the glory and applause."
"Now, it's my turn to support you."
Viktor and Jayce shared a smile. Viktor turned back and grasped Link's hand firmly. "I hope you can show me a completely different future!"
"Of course," Link replied with a satisfied smile. "I'll make sure of it."
With Link's help, Viktor stood up, but his attention quickly shifted to the community gate.
"What is it, Viktor?" Jayce asked, puzzled by Viktor's sudden alertness.
"Someone's coming," Viktor said. "And... the Professor is with them?"
"The Professor?" Jayce's eyes widened. "Heimerdinger? I haven't seen him in ages. Why would he be here?"
"Because Heimerdinger realized the conflict between the two cities long before you did," Link interjected. "He's been working to find a path for peace and prosperity for both Piltover and Zaun."
Viktor nodded. "I had my followers bring them here."
"Did you call them?" Viktor asked, turning to Link.
Link nodded. "Yes. Their help is essential for Zaun's rebirth plan."
"Alright, let's talk then," Viktor said, leaning on his staff as he looked toward the gate.
Soon, Ekko, Heimerdinger, Jinx, and others arrived at Viktor's residence.
The moment Heimerdinger saw Viktor, his ears perked up. Noticing the mechanical parts hidden beneath Viktor's clothes, his ears drooped. "Viktor, what happened to you?"
While Ekko and Jinx were curious about Viktor, their attention was more drawn to Pride and Link.
Ekko was more fascinated by Pride, while Jinx's curiosity was focused on Link.
"A living mechanical creature..." Ekko couldn't help but step toward Pride. "This is so cool!"
"Yeah!" Zeri chimed in. Pride's tail slammed into the ground, sending a cloud of white sand into the air. It then let out a burst of scorching flame to deter Ekko and Zeri from getting closer.
"Seems a bit fierce," Zeri said, hiding behind Ekko.
"Yeah, very fierce," Ekko agreed, feeling the heat in the air.
"Oh—" Jinx skipped over to Link, circling him as she whistled. "You never told me you were around my age!"
"Surprised?" Link asked, hands in his pockets.
"A little," Jinx grinned, scratching her chin. "I thought you'd be some bearded old man!"
"You little rascal," Link chuckled. "You already got all my information from Vander, and you're still playing dumb with me?"
"It's called a surprise!" Jinx whistled. "I just wanted to give you a little thrill!"
"But seriously, that big guy behind you is awesome," Jinx said, leaning closer to Link.
"He's my creation," Link explained. "My firstborn, you could say."
"So there's more?" Jinx raised an eyebrow.
"There will be," Link said with a smirk. "But that's for later."
"Professor—" Viktor and Heimerdinger locked eyes. Heimerdinger hesitated but eventually reached out. "When you were gravely ill, I thought... But now, even with these changes, it's good to see you alive."
"I took a detour," Viktor said, glancing at Link. "But thanks to him, I've found my way back."
Jayce, meanwhile, was eyeing Jinx with suspicion. As a wanted criminal in Piltover, her bold presence here was outrageous. Just as Jayce was about to speak up, Sevika cleared her throat, drawing everyone's attention.
"I know everyone wants to catch up or discuss things, but Link, could you explain why you called us here?"
"Simple," Link said, patting Jinx's head before stepping forward. "I've gathered everyone here to discuss the future of Zaun."
"Most of you have experienced Zaun's poverty, suffering, and dire conditions firsthand."
"And many of you share the same vision—to change this city and bridge the gap between the two cities."
"That's why I've called you here—"
Before Link could finish, Jayce interrupted, stepping forward. "I don't care about the others, but her—"
He pointed at Jinx. "A criminal who attacked Progress Day and the Piltover Council, causing countless casualties—why is she here? I can't accept this!"
Link cut him off as Pride stepped forward, releasing a blast of steam that made Jayce flinch.
"Your personal grievances are none of my concern, nor do I wish to interfere. But please show me some respect and let me finish," Link said calmly. "Otherwise, my firstborn will help you stay quiet."
Jayce's face twitched, but he eventually backed down, though his glare remained fixed on Jinx.
Jinx, completely unfazed, whistled and twirled her braid, her attention solely on Link.
"Let's continue," Link said, signaling Pride to step back. "I've called everyone here to form an organization dedicated to Zaun's development."
"Piltover has its Council, and Zaun should have its own governing body. This will ensure Zaun's interests are represented in the reforms three days from now."
"Wait," Viktor raised a hand. "I have no issue with forming a new organization, but what reforms are you talking about in three days?"
"I'd like to know too," Sevika added, while Ekko and Heimerdinger looked on curiously.
"In three days, I've organized a banquet," Link explained. "All the influential families of Piltover will be there."
"What are you planning?" Jayce asked, a bad feeling creeping up on him.
"Simple," Link smiled. "We'll use force to make them submit, then implement reforms from the top down."
"We'll reclaim Zaun's autonomy, its port rights, environmental restoration, education, healthcare—everything Zaun deserves."
"In other words, from the moment you all stand here, Zaun's rebirth and a brighter future have already begun!"
Note: So far this story is published up to chapter 125 on my patreon go take a look and remember if you reach 200 stones of power I will publish the next chapter.