Viktor nods, understanding about the tough competition, and also glad Xander was at least able to make some friends. Viktor was an outsider first for his disability, then for the fact that he was at a topside academy as someone from the Undercity. At a certain point, though, his isolation became purposeful.

At his final statement, Viktor raises his brows, frowning innocently at Xander, big-eyed.

"Why is that a shame? I like you as you are now." Xander understands what it means to be disabled, and that is more valuable to Viktor than, er- courting someone who is spry and strong.

"Perhaps we could have been friends in school, but I think it is more likely we'd both have holed up in separate nooks and ignored each other." He smiles wryly.