#insert guy with red string board meme

[jaijeijayjei]

Mel, Jayce, and Caitlyn in S2 E1

Mel and Caitlyn both argue against invasion at the council meeting, despite Mel almost dying and Caitlyn's mother being killed from the attack.

Jayce was adamant that Hextech shouldn't be used as a weapon, Mel reassures him she won't let that happen. She sees how distraught Caitlyn and later tells Jayce he should check on her.

Caitlyn and Jayce have a talk; Caitlyn says she understands how easy it is to hate Zaun from one vicious act. Jayce starts to wonder if Hextech can save them from this situation. Foreshadowing!!!

After the attack, Caitlyn is furious at the disrespect and is scared of everything falling apart. Jayce is terrified after being targeted and almost killed by Renni. Mel literally "stared down the barrel" and could've been killed.

The attack affects them in different ways: Caitlyn believes she must take control of the situation and bring the undercity under control Jayce now sees Zaun as a serious, aggressive threat to Piltover. Mel realizes just how much violence and chaos can result from this conflict.

Caitlyn forms the strike team, Jayce creates the weapons, Mel unsuccessfully tries to dissuade the council from turning on Zaun.

Then, these consecutive shots of the three of them. Caitlyn exudes confidence and stands proudly. Mel is shocked and distraught, wringing her hands. Jayce hangs his head in the forge, uncertain and pensive.

At the outset of this episode, all three characters were worried about escalating the conflict and wanted to salvage any peace between the two cities. But now, Caitlyn is driven by a desire for justice and vengeance. Jayce is driven by fear and a sense of self-preservation. Mel continues to be afraid of starting an all out war.

What an interesting dynamic, I sure hope none of them get isekai-ed away from the main plot for half a season!

Thanks to @420technoblazeit for inspiring this post.