The Enlightening Festival

*

                The morning of the festival was nothing short of chaos. Min-Jun and Wooyoung were going through the final count of items as Chansung packed them into boxes. Taecyeon was going back and forth between the truck and van until Min-Jun gave the final okay on the inventory list. Soon enough, after finishing the last of the preparations and loading everything up into the van and back of the truck, Min-Jun declared them ready.

                Wooyoung hauled out a box of hats and mitts. “Ha!” He announced and bounded over to him. Chansung was adorned with a black hat and given matching mittens. Wooyoung grinned and raced away, “Looks cute on you!”

                Heading to the mirror beside the door he groaned. Black cat ears rested on the top of the hat. ‘Just perfect,’ he thought.

                “Oh! I see Wooyoung is already getting you set.” Min-Jun chuckled. “Maybe one day we’ll see your real ears, hey?”

                Chansung rubbed his mitt all over his face. “Your cat needs to end!”

                Min-Jun poked him in the belly making him hiss. “Hm, but having a cat is so fun.” He sang and went over to the box.

                Wooyoung raced back and set a brown hat on his head.

                “Eh!?”

                Wooyoung ran out the door laughing. Chansung couldn’t help but swoon. He was being way too cute!

                “Come back here you little trickster!” Min-Jun called, waving his fist at him.

                “I haven’t worn this in ages.” Taecyeon said as he came through the door. “Oh! He got you guys too huh?”

                “Yeah and then he ran away, silly kid.” Min-Jun cooed. Chansung flushed as Taecyeon swept him up into his arms. “Idiot, we have an audience.” Min-Jun winked at him.

                Chansung gasped and turned towards the door, “I’ll be outside!”

                Wooyoung was seated on the back of the truck, wearing earmuffs.

                “No fair, why don't you have a hat with ears too?”

                “You’re wearing my one.” Wooyoung chuckled.

                “Oh...” He pawed at it. “Can I see you wearing it then?”

                “No, it’s too embarrassing.” Wooyoung laughed and Chansung pulled him closer.

                “Just once?”

                Wooyoung flushed before reaching up and taking it off of Chansung's head. He gave a small sigh as he finally slipped it on. As he turned to face him, Chansung clenched his fists tightly. 'He's so cute',' so adorable' were the only thoughts racing through his mind as he looked over him. His heart was speeding up. Wooyoung looked so full of life, and his eyes looked so big and bright.

                “Embarrassing right?” He asked, and just had to puff up his cheeks.

                Chansung was swooning, and he somehow managed to remember to answer and shook his head. “Cute...”

                Wooyoung grinned at him and handed the hat back. “I like it when you wear it.”

                “Why do you have a cat hat?”

                Wooyoung shrugged. “Ask me some other time, okay?”

                “Alright kiddies, let’s get this show on the road!” Min-Jun announced and walked to the driver’s seat of the van.

                Wooyoung stepped down and settled his earmuffs back in place. “I have a feeling you’re going to be overwhelmed with all the stuff you’ll see.”

                “Well, I could hardly sleep last night.” He laughed.

                They got into the truck, waved to Min-Jun, and off they went. Chansung’s emotions, if possible, became even more flustered.

                When they arrived at the park, there were decorations and stands already set up. Steam from cooking vendors already rose high into the sky. Lanterns of various colours and decorated with foxes were strung up over head. Chansung allowed his gaze to wander only for a little before he was beckoned. Taecyeon and Chansung were tasked with the set up of the stand while Min-Jun and Wooyoung off-loaded the boxes and boxes of goods.

                “Good to see you participating this year, Min-Jun!” A man from a ways down called.

                “Same to you!” He said back.

                In no time they were ready and soon enough people swarmed to see their chocolates, desserts, and the buns. Chansung couldn’t resist swiping one. He was caught of course.

                “I promise to make you more.” Wooyoung laughed and stole half. “It makes me happy that you like our stuff.”

                “I have decided that I’ll live my life as a fat cat," he declared. "I love your stuff too much." He whined.

                “I like chunky Chansung.” Wooyoung snickered. "Besides, you look healthier and cuter."

                Chansung had to focus on something else. Wooyoung had called him cute so many times today. He was openly flirting and it was stirring him up badly. He turned his attention to the other parts of the festival grounds. Soon his attention landed on a stage down the way. It was quite elaborate and people were putting on the final touches.

                “Are there going to be singers?” He asked.

                “Singers and probably some plays.” Min-Jun said. “I haven’t been able to look over the event schedule yet.”

                “Ready to go get another load of the boxes?” Taecyeon asked as he appeared.

                “We’ll be back soon.” Min-Jun said.

                “Yeah right, take your time.” Wooyoung called after.

                “Alrighty,” Min-Jun chuckled.

                Wooyoung turned back and shook his head. “They’re like...”

                “Young lovers...” Chansung finished.

                “Guess it’s me and you at the booth first. When they get back I’ll walk around with you. Although, if we see Junho you can-"

                “No,” he interrupted. “I wanna go with you.”

                Wooyoung blushed and smiled at him, “don’t be so serious.”

                “I can’t help it around you.” He admitted without thinking. This of course had him blushing a bit.

                Wooyoung seemed to hide his own as he shoved him. His attention turned immediately as their first customer approached. “Hello!” He greeted.

                It was slow going at first, but come supper time there was a big line-up for each of the stands. Everyone was dressed up with some type of fox symbol or emblem on their clothes. They also wore fox masks and had fans with fox designs on them. Children raced up and down, playing at the game stands or rushing to the stage where the musicians played.

                “Oh! Wooyoung! Chansung!”

                Both looked up as the cute Min came tugging the very flustered Lee Junho. They were such an adorable pair, really.

                “All dressed up for the play, Min?” Wooyoung asked.

                “I am, are you both going to come and watch?” She asked.

                Chansung looked past her at Junho who was on the verge of changing. His face was completely red he was blushing so hard, even his ears.

                “If Min-Jun and Taecyeon are back by then we’ll be sure to come and see.” Wooyoung said as he helped another customer.

                “Right, Taecyeon is back.” Min said and set down a box. “Mom wanted me to give this to the bakery. She was happy to hear you were all participating in the festival this year. She said she would try and drop by later or come to the bakery when she got some free time.”

                “Thank you, Min.” Wooyoung said and took up the box. “Can I peek?”

                “Of course!” Min laughed.

                Junho smiled fondly behind her and seemed to finally relax.

                Chansung couldn't help but coo, which caught Junho’s attention. “Having fun, pup?” He asked softly.

                This of course caused Junho's blush to return and he, if possible, became even more red.

                “Oh? You are, hey?”

                “Shut up, you...” Junho growled but didn't finish. He wasn't mad, but Chansung could tell that the pup was anxious.

                “Thanks for freeing up his time, Chansung. I really appreciate it!” Min said, positively radiant.

                “Anytime,” he said, earning a glare from the pup.

                "I hope you're both able to come and watch! Enjoy the festivities!" Min cheered as she clasped Junho's wrist and was dragging him away.

                He waved them off.

                “He’s totally going to change.” Wooyoung said as he came to stand beside him.

                “I know,” he chuckled.

                “Yo! Wooyoung!” Hye Lim announced as she approached. “Oh! You made such cute chocolates this year.” She said as she looked over them and the desserts.

                “I didn’t think I’d see you here without San E.” Wooyoung commented, clearly surprised.

                Hye Lim shrugged, “we broke up.”

                Wooyoung stood back, “what?!”

                Hye Lim shrugged, “don’t wanna talk about it.” She picked up two chocolates and pointed to two cupcakes. “I’ll take these, please?”

                Chansung retrieved two bags and boxes to hand to Wooyoung.

                “Well, if you do, you know where to find me.” Wooyoung offered.

                “You’re too nice, Wooyoung.” Hye Lim said. "You're looking really healthy." She said and then gave Chansung a nod. "I'm glad someone has been able to finally bring back that smile." She turned back to Wooyoung and gave a smile of her own before walking on.

                People were making such obvious observations about the both of them now and it made Chansung feel too warm under his clothes.

                Wooyoung looked just as flustered as he watched her go.

                “I didn’t even know they were dating. San E seemed to be interested in you, not her.” Chansung said after a while, which caused Wooyoung to sigh.

                “I turned him down.” Wooyoung admitted. "I didn't think you'd pick up on something like that."

                “So he did ask you...”

                “I honestly have no interest in him. It really wouldn’t have worked out between him and me. Plus he’s totally not my type.” Wooyoung held up his hand with a peace sign.

                “What is your type?” He couldn't help but ask.

                Wooyoung smiled, “it’s a secret.”

                Chansung couldn’t help but shiver.

                “Alright kiddies, you’re free to go.” Min-Jun announced as he and Taecyeon appeared with new boxes. “Whoa! We sold so much already!”

                Wooyoung nodded and removed his apron. “Come on kit, let’s go have a look see.”

                Chansung was in total bliss walking around. He was in awe of all the trinkets and memorabilia that people had for sale and on display. The masks, the clothes, the art – everything kept him enthralled for the entire walk. He managed to pick out several things for his siblings. Thinking of them again, he couldn’t help but smile softly.

               The persisting thought that he should try and go back, even if he would get arrested, arose in his mind. To him it would be worth it. Then he sighed upon thinking such a silly thought. What good would it be for anyone if he ignored all the risks and got caught? It would not only worry his family, but would render all his journeying thus far pointless. He would have to start all over again. Not only that, but he was becoming enamoured with many things and people in Fortune. He realised Wooyoung was no where around him and began looking for him amidst the sea of people.

                Noticing Wooyoung in front of a trinket booth, he was looking over some pendants. Before he could join him, the enigma was beside Chansung and pulling him back towards their booth.

                “Did you see something you wanted over there?” Trying to get a better look.

                “Mm...I’m thinking of getting something, yes.”

                Eyeing the man for a little bit got him no answers.

                “So, do you have a process for how you send things?” Wooyoung wondered as he relieved him of a bag.

                “Yeah...”

                “I could just send them for you.” Wooyoung offered.

                “No, I don’t want them to come here.”

                “Who?”

                “Anyone who might be willing to sell tips on where I’m to.” Chansung said and looked through the things. “Besides, I don’t think you want to get caught up in my mess.”

                Stopping as Wooyoung came to a halt, he noticed the other looking more than a little angry. “I know it isn’t any of my business-"

                “Don’t...” He walked forward and cupped his chin and his neck. “Don’t take it the wrong way, please. I appreciate you wanting to help me, I really do, and I know you know that.” Wooyoung’s expression still showed frustration. “People like me like to keep those we hold dear safe, you know?”

                Finally, he seemed to accept that because he relaxed some and his expression softened. They dropped off the bags back at the stand and found it completely swamped with people again. Adorned in their aprons once more they stayed until the line shortened to a manageable size. Soon they had nearly nothing left and Wooyoung left with Taecyeon to fetch the last of their extra supplies. Min-Jun immediately lit up a cigarette.

                “You’ve been waiting to do that all night haven’t you?” He asked and sat beside him.

                “You have no idea.” Min-Jun laughed. “I’m going to take a gander down there.”

                Chansung nodded and watched him go. Only a few stray customers came by. Chansung looked down to the stage at the large crowd watching the play. A jingle caught his ear, the same one from before, and he turned. A mysterious woman stood before him, wizened and old in her years. What intrigued him the most was how similar her scent was to Wooyoung. He would recognise it anywhere.

                “Hwang...Chansung...is it?” She said, startling him. “If you want to know about foxes, please come to this address.” Her silver eyes flashed in the minimal light. She set down a piece of paper and slid it towards him.

                “Who-"

                “I would like two chocolates, please?” She asked with a soft smile.

                Chansung retrieved the sweets she requested. Accepting her change, he had to withhold a jerk upon coming into contact with her skin. It was so cold to the touch. She said nothing more and turned away from the table. Watching her go, he couldn’t help but shiver slightly. She was very old. He was curious as to why her scent was so similar to Wooyoung's, too. Noticing a flicker of white at the edge of the table, he turned his gaze downwards.

                Spotting a bushy tail it was accompanied by another of pure white, like fresh fallen snow.

                Peeking around the corner, he froze. It wasn’t possible, a white fox with two tails! And not just one but three!

                Covering his mouth, his heart began hammering in his chest. Thinking of the best way to approach her, he stood and cleared his throat.

                Three heads turned towards him.

                “A-Ah! I’m sorry, I don’t mean to disturb you. I just...I just wanted to know if you’d like some chicken buns?”

                The two little kits began jumping around their mother, chanting 'yes' in unison.

                “We have no money, leopard.” She said.

                Chansung waved his hands, “It’s okay, I can get them for you.”

                She bowed her head, "you are very kind, again." She returned to looking down to the stage.

                Chansung was surprised by her statement, but he only thing he could think of was the fox face he saw at the small shrine he visited with Wooyoung. Shaking away his thoughts, he got the buns happily and gave them to the kits. They of course gobbled them up.

                “Mm! Delicious!” They cheered and pranced around.

                Chansung couldn’t help but smile. “Are you enjoying yourselves?” He couldn’t help but ask. He knew he was probably bothering them but he couldn’t help himself.

                “We are!” The kits cheered and bounded up to him. “Big brother says you like foxes.”

                “Children, do not bother the leopard. He has customers.”

                Indeed, Chansung rose up as a half dozen people showed up at the table. Why couldn’t any of them see the foxes? They were right there. After serving them he watched them race around their mother until she nabbed them both.

                “How come...they can’t see you?” He finally asked.

                The white fox looked up at him, eyes golden and bright. “There are many reasons. Asides from the connection you have to the Realm, you offered fox wine at the shrine and we granted your wish, to see us.”

                Chansung rose immediately, both astounded and surprised. “R-Really?” So it was true.

                “Yes, sometimes when you visit a pool of water which connects to the Realm the desire of your heart is answered.” She explained and leapt up onto the table.

                Chansung immediately looked around but no one seemed to notice. “You mean...”

                She bowed her head. “We foxes are scarce these days, in the world. We only visit those with good intentions now. Consider yourself lucky, leopard.”

                He couldn’t help but nod. “I do - I never thought I would get to see a fox.”

                She tilted her head. “Kin, you need only open your eyes. We have always been with you.”

                “What do you mean?” He was curious about her calling him "kin". Only species with relations did that.

                “I feel sad for you, that the one you seek still hasn’t graced you with their true presence, and what happened when you were a small kit. It will come in time. Their apprehension is not without reason. You need to be patient for only a little while longer.”

                “Chansung!”

                Turning, he found Min-Jun waving at him. Then he noticed customers in front of him. “Oh! Sorry!”

                “Are you...okay?” The man asked. Looking between him and the spot on the table where the fox had sat.

                “Ah...just tired.” He said. “We’ve been really busy prepping for today.”

                “Yes, please take care...” He said and indicated to what he wanted.

                Sighing, he looked around but found no sign of the fox or her kits. He didn’t let it get him down. He got to meet one and speak with them! Not just speak with them but have a real conversation - and it didn’t end in tragedy. Well, they might have been spirits or mystical beings, but that wasn't the point!

                Fortune really...was a special place. For the first time in a very long while he was given real clues. This small meeting confirmed for Chansung that he was on the right track. The wolf Elder had been right. However, new questions arose in his mind. What did she mean by certain pools being connected to the Realm? And, how did she know about the person he was trying to find? Sighing deeply, he couldn’t help but smile. Everything was confusing but also seemed to strangely fall into place.

                Noticing the slip of paper, he picked it up. He would have to ask one of the others where this was located. When Min-Jun returned, he inquired about what had happened and Chansung shrugged. He would wait until he was calm before divulging seeing the foxes. Since Wooyoung had been with him, perhaps he should speak with him about it.

                “Ne, can you tell me about multi-tail hybrids?”

                Min-Jun instantly lit up another cigarette and retook his seat. “They’re more common than those who carry the double-hybrid gene, but still rare. Usually a multi-tail is considered a genetic mutation, and most times it is, until you see one with more than two. Although, most times multi-tail hybrids are spirits.” He said and leaned back. “The humans don’t know about our spiritual worlds. It isn't something we should feel like we need to share - especially without our consent as well. The only one they do know about, they’ve hunted the hybrid to damn near extinction.”

                “Foxes? So the Fox Realm is something spiritual..?”

                “You got it. I don’t know why the humans want it. There are several legends and myths about why. I fear the day they try and discover the Wolf Afterlife or the Owl Heavens. Humans...are greedy, and they don’t understand that sometimes. They don’t understand that they do not need to know everything.”

                Chansung smiled, “you really are old.”

                “Hey!” Min-Jun smacked his leg. “I’m not that old.”

                “I’ve never heard of these things before. The first time I heard of a multi-tail was here.” And seen one.

                “I’m surprised your father never told you...” Min-Jun said as he took a long drag of his cigarette. "Or your mother, she's made some nasty comments about certain things like this in the past."

                “I don't know if I want to ask." He said softly. "When did you first meet them?"

                “Oh, I couldn't tell you that, I would feel really old then." He laughed. "I know your father more than your mother. But, like I said, it would be beneficial to know a hybrid that famous.”

                Chansung shrugged, “If you know them...would I have met you before? It feels like we've met before but I don't remember anything...”

                Min-Jun smiled then and blew smoke at him. “Well, that’s a curious thing isn’t it?”

                “Min-Jun!" He whined. "Why won't you be honest with me? We must have met then, so why don't I remember you?”

                Min-Jun sighed and tugged him close. "I want to tell you, but for right now please be patient for a little more, okay?" He asked softly and squeezed his side. "It isn't that I don't trust you. I just...I have very important reasons for not sharing right now."

                While he didn't much like the answer, Chansung would just have to respect Min-Jun's requirement for patience. "Does my mother have something to do with you not tellin' me?" He couldn't help but ask. He knew his mother all too well, and if she knew Min-Jun was Taecyeon's partner, well, there was likely a lot of harm done.

                Min-Jun smiled at him though, his expression and scent weren't giving him any clues. "Enjoy the festivities, Chan." He encouraged before turning to waiting customers.

                Chansung grumbled and looked down to the stage. Then he spotted them again, the fox and her kits seated on the roof of another vendor. He couldn’t help but smile. He was definitely in the right place.

                “If she did do anything to you or Taecyeon...I'm so sorry." He said and bowed to him. "If you want me to leave I can."

                "Oh boy, I didn't expect that, and you're saying that again." Min-Jun chuckled and gripped his shoulder. "Listen to me because I'm only going to say this one more time, Hwang Chansung."

                The way he said his name had Chansung standing ramrod straight and looking him in the eye.

                "You are very important to me, okay? I never want to hear you speak those words in my presence ever again. You are most welcome here." He said as he cupped his cheek. Then he said firmly, "You are not your mother."

                That made Chansung's stomach twist and he looked away immediately. "But I am her son."

                Min-Jun's sigh made Chansung look back at him slightly, but not fully. Then he was pinching his cheeks which made Chansung groan. He paused as Min-Jun rested his hands against his neck.

                "To me you are just Chansung. You're sweet and considerate, and I know you're carrying a lot of pain." This made Chansung want to move away but Min-Jun was looking at him far too intensely, and he was so warm - his scent was comforting. "There are reasons I'm really protective of you, and I want you to stay with me and Wooyoung. Don't fret about the actions of your mother. They are not yours to carry, do you understand?"

                Chansung nodded. "I just can't help it."

                "That's what makes you so kind, but you don't need to take this on."

                "I'm sure there are other reasons you're above and beyond kind to me, Min-Jun. I want to know." He huffed as Min-Jun finally moved away from him.  

                Min-Jun grinned, “getting frustrated?”

                “Very,” he said and faced him. “But I'm okay with it...” Chansung said before turning to look up into the sky. Small white flecks began to descend.

                "Do you know how he got the name River Kim?”

                Chansung felt his leopard swirling with curiosity. “No. I've only ever known him as River Kim, didn't know about the life he was protecting.”

                “It was the name given to him when he entered the political arena.”

                Chansung sat back and crossed his arms. “Were you the one who put him up to that stunt the other day?”

                “Mmhmm...” Min-Jun hummed and waved at a passerby. “I wanted to meddle a little bit.”

                “Did you really have to?” Chansung asked not being able to stop his blush, or hide his discomfort. “I can...forgive other things, but that was pushing it a little too much."

                "Well, to be honest I didn't think you would react the way you did." Min-Jun admitted with concern. "I did tell him not to go too far." He was looking him over and Chansung saw the red glint in his eye. "I wanted to see if you would give in."

                Chansung bristled with irritation, "I don't like you sometimes..."

                Min-Jun burst into laughter and tugged him close. "That's okay because I like you a whole lot.” He cooed as he smoothed his hands through his hair. “Taecyeon always speaks highly of you. He's always impressed with your work. I have a feeling that if you weren’t related to Aurora, he really would have considered you as a potential partner.”

                Chansung bat away his hand. “I don’t want to hear that, especially from you. That doesn’t make it right - it’s just weird.”

                “Then I will apologise here, and make sure nothing like that ever happens again.” Min-Jun said rather seriously. “I know full well that I've likely overstepped my boundaries-”

                “A little, I just don't...” he sighed and smiled when Min-Jun held his hand. "Why are Wooyoung and Taecyeon taking so long? I need saving from you! I haven’t seen Junho or Min for a while either.”

                “Oh, getting antsy are you?”

                “Shut up...” He grumbled and pushed him.

                “Min and Junho are watching the play.” Min-Jun said and got to his feet. “I think it’s good Wooyoung and Taecyeon are together, maybe they’ll finally reconcile.” Chansung noted the soft tone to his voice.

                “I hope so, too.”

                Eyes straying once more to the vendor rooftop, the mother and her kits were still there. He wished he could go and speak to them again, but at least now he knew he was closer. The elderly woman who visited was also another curious character. He wondered what paths she would point him to. Although, he didn’t know if he could trust her so he needed to be prepared in the event it was a trap of some kind.

                Hearing soft footfalls, Wooyoung came around the corner, Taecyeon’s hat on his head. They met eyes for only a second, but the smile on Wooyoung’s face told him everything. Hearing applause down by the stage he couldn’t help but think ‘perfect timing’. Taecyeon huffed as he came around carrying more boxes.

                “We made it just in time!” Wooyoung boasted.

                Indeed, in minutes people were at the booths once more and purchasing the remainder of their goods. By the end of the night, Chansung was exhausted. He was so happy they had the next day off.

                Nearing the closing of the festivities both Junho and Min helped them with the clean up. Min-Jun and Taecyeon offered to drive them home. Once finished, Chansung found himself pulled down the line of booths once more. Wooyoung stopped them in front of one of the trinket vendors and knelt down. Chansung noticed it was the same one from before, and he got to see the pendants and bracelets on display more clearly.

                “So you did see something that you liked.” He said as he crouched down.

                “Mm...maybe.” Wooyoung ran his fingers over an amber pendant. “I don’t think I suit this colour, but you would.” Wooyoung slipped it off the hanger and clasped it around his neck. “Mmhmm...do you want it?”

                “It’s already around my neck.”

                Wooyoung grinned.

                Chansung couldn’t help but swoon. “Doting on me?”

                “Read into it however you wish.” Wooyoung said as he handed over the cash.

                “Now I feel like getting you something.” He murmured and looked at the pendant.

                “I warn you I’m hard to please.” Wooyoung laughed and they made their way to the truck.

                “That just makes things more exciting.” Chansung chuckled but then his senses went on alert and he pulled Wooyoung back into him. Something heavy landed in the back of the truck hard enough to make it shake.

                Wooyoung gripped his hand and arm tightly. “What was that?”

                Chansung tightened his arm about Wooyoung as two gleaming eyes peered down at them. Slowly it came out of the back and Wooyoung went very still in his arms. A black wolf, and not one that Chansung knew. It sniffed at the air and stared at them.

                “Chansung...” Wooyoung murmured.

                “Shh, just relax...” He soothed and held Wooyoung closer to him. The wolf stalked forward, still sniffing at the air, but Chansung gave a low growl in warning. "Are you looking for someone, wolf?"

                The wolf halted and looked at him. When it sat, Chansung relaxed some. “Greetings, kin. May I ask you both something?” It said.

                “Yes.” Chansung answered.

                “You smell of River Kim. May I ask where I might find him?”

                “Why do you want to see him?” Wooyoung wondered, his grip on Chansung never loosened.

                “I bring news from the borders of Miandoor in the north. It is urgent that I speak with him.”

                “Hop in the back.” Chansung said. “We’ll take you.”

                "Many thanks! Sorry if I scared you, I thought you were him but was mistaken."

                "No worries, we'll be off in a couple minutes."

                Wooyoung didn’t speak further and he didn't seem to want to relieve his grip on Chansung's hand anytime soon either. Chansung’s arm was burning and making him pant slightly. When the Wolf was seated in the back, Wooyoung finally let go of him.

                “Sorry...I got a little nervous there.” He said as he turned to him.

                Chansung kept him close as he continued to calm down. “Would you have felt safer if Min-Jun or Taecyeon were here?” He couldn’t help but ask.

                Wooyoung jabbed him in the side. “It’s nothing to do with that. I’m just surprised he got that close to us.”

                “Sorry...my senses are still dulled.” He murmured and caught sight of more eyes in the trees. “Doesn’t look like he came alone.”

                “Great...”

                "Come on, we should head back." He said softly.

                Wooyoung looked up at him with a mysterious expression before nodding.

                When they pulled up in the driveway Taecyeon was waiting for them. The wolf hopped down and sat beside him. Wooyoung sighed as they got out of the truck. “You couldn’t have warned us that you had company coming?” Wooyoung asked.

                “Sorry babe, I didn’t think they’d come today.”

                “I must apologise again for startling your cubs.” The wolf ducked it’s head.

                Chansung made to correct him but Wooyoung was tugging him close again. He was honestly too cute.

                "They're fine." Taecyeon said with a smile. "You two should head inside and get some rest. We've had a long day."

                “Just a question,” Chansung said as he came to stand before him. Wooyoung gave a small whimper behind him but made his way into the house.

                “Yes, kin?”

                “Were you and your pack hunting in the woods a couple days ago?”

                The wolf snorted, “No, we would have come here immediately.”

                “Thanks,” he waved and made his way inside.

                So it had been a different pack. He’d heard of the wolves of Miandoor. It was ancient country and well protected. He wouldn’t deny that the wolf had put him on edge. The pack at Nocturna had warned him about the Miandoor wolves. He wouldn’t have been able to protect Wooyoung against a whole pack, and he didn’t want to think about what they would have done if they were enemies. Taecyeon had dangerous friends, that he was sure of.

                Shedding layers as he entered the porch, he made his way up the stairs and proceeded to take a long shower. When he was finally settled on his bed he looked at the pendant once more. Wooyoung came in after and slid under his covers.

                “I’m so glad we don’t have work tomorrow...” He mumbled and got cozy.

                Chansung smiled and he too got comfortable. “A lot of things happened today...”

                “Oh?”

                “Yeah...”

                The most important...well he didn’t know which was more important, seeing the foxes and getting potential information, or Wooyoung giving him a pendant and relying on him. It all made him feel warm and fuzzy. 

                “So, did you make nice with Taecyeon?”

                “Not enough that it warrants me seeing your cat.” Wooyoung said and flicked off the light.

                “You don’t even want to lie and get me to show you?”

                “I’m taunting and mean, but I would never do that, especially when it’s something I really want and respect.”

                Chansung warmed considerably at that, “really?”

                “Mmhmm...”

                “So what did you talk about?”

                “None of your business, kit.”

                Chansung clucked his tongue, “You won’t even humour me a little.”

                “Things that needed to be said, family stuff, mumbo jumbo...”

                Chansung sighed, “You’re really unfair sometimes.”

                “I’m just not ready to tell you yet.” He said softly.

                “But you will, right?”

                Wooyoung chuckled, “Who else would I tell it to?”

                Chansung couldn’t help but swoon at that. “Aren’t I special?”

                “Oh, most certainly.”

                “I caught that sarcasm, you .” He threw a pillow up at him.

                Wooyoung chuckled and tossed it back. “I hope Junho and Min hang out together more often.”

                Chansung nodded, “me too.”

                It went quiet and Chansung found himself drifting off.

                "I'm sorry I got so scared, when the wolf came..." Wooyoung's soft voice came in the darkness. "I would have really panicked if you weren't there. I did feel safe with you."

                "I'll make sure not to let something like that happen again."

                Wooyoung's sleepy chuckle had him lulling to sleep again. "I feel I'm more of an urban hybrid than you now. You didn't seem fazed at all."

                Chansung looked up into the darkness of the room. "Well...I had to protect you." He said gently. "Couldn't do that if I was stressed."

                "I guess that's the difference between alphas and the rest of us puny timid ones, huh?"

                Chansung lay on his side facing Wooyoung. "I'm sure if I wasn't there you would have been fine."

                "You have more faith in me than I do."

                Chansung laughed, but then he recalled the overwhelmingly warm sensation of having Wooyoung in his arms. He would do better next time, if the situation arose.

                "I promise I'll keep you safe..." He said tiredly.

                "Oh, are you makin' sleepy promises, Chansung?" Wooyoung asked.

                Closing his eyes he nodded, "But I'll remember."

                "I know you will..."

                Wooyoung's soft words and the pendant around his neck put a smile back on his face. Was it bad that he didn’t want to wander anymore?

*

Next chapter...The Visit