The Last Place of Fox Legends

*

                Chansung found himself waking slowly. For the second time in a row he woke up feeling refreshed, but most of all safe. Slowly hauling himself up, he looked over at Wooyoung’s bed and found it empty and made. Checking the time he wasn’t surprised to find it was nearly noon. Flopping back down he ran his hands through his hair. He had always intended to come to Fortune. It was a place he had longed to come to for years, for reasons other than what people thought. Having met both Min-Jun and Wooyoung now only insured that he was indeed on the right path. It just all felt right, in some strange way. Min-Jun and Wooyoung...the more time he spent in their company the more interesting they became.

                Stretching out languidly, he curled his hands and toes. He would have to set aside those thoughts for now.  He felt giddy at the thought of finally being able to explore. It was time to start the day and prepare himself for when Junho came to fetch him. He was still confident that he would have no problems, but Min-Jun instilled an insecurity in him. He had met Abandons before and each experience varied. Junho, even though he hadn’t really spoken with him, seemed level-headed and already on a steady path of recovery, and he didn’t want to set him back in any way. Perhaps if they were able to become close, Chansung could also be a part of his healing journey if Junho allowed him. He just wanted to see the pup happy. Even if he barely knew him, Chansung had a huge soft spot for canids.

                Sitting up finally, he made his way down the hall to the stairs. Glancing around, the silence seemed strange and out of place. He stopped on the last step and looked into the bakery. The closed sign hung in the window and nothing fresh rested on the shelves. Turning his attention to the kitchen he noticed a note hanging from the entryway. Strolling over to it with a roll of his eyes he tugged it down and passed his thumb over the speedy scrawl.

                Yo, sleepy kit,

                As promised a special lunch for you is in the fridge. I don’t want to see leftovers, this house is always stocked full. So eat it all! If something comes up listed below are Min-Jun’s cell and Junho’s number. See you later this evening. – W

                Smiling fondly, a pleasant sensation flew up his spine at the thought of food. Not just any home-cooked food either, food made by Wooyoung. Opening the fridge he spotted two tuna steaks, two helpings of rice, and a bowl of broth. Honestly, the guy was spoiling him! Reaching in he pulled out the plate and moseyed happily for the microwave. Watching the food heat up he grew impatient and turned his attention back to his surroundings. Eyes falling on an odd and out of place book on the counter he sauntered over. A note rested on top.

                I figured you would be interested in this. Think of it as welcome gift. – Min-Jun

                It was aged, the leather binding frayed at the edges. There was no title or author. Curiosity got the better of him and he opened it.

                Date unknown...

                The people of Fortune have always been kind. In the beginning, when they first arrived, we Foxes welcomed them with open arms. Our little dens must have seemed so quaint. Times have changed so much...

                At least in Fortune, the people have let no harm come to our families. Others elsewhere are reporting the fall of their communities. Certain types of humans have begun coming to Fortune seeking the Realm, trying to find it for purely selfish reasons. Our Realm is not for humans to enter. Only the old ones, the Elder Foxes are meant to go. We Foxes are taught from a young age that there are places we are only meant to journey when it is our time. The Realm only means death –

                Chansung bristled and he narrowed his eyes. Even if foxes were last seen in Fortune, it was curious that Min-Jun would have this book. Yes, the wolf Elder had not been mistaken to point him in this direction. Before he could read more, he was surprised by a loud knock. Making his way to the back entrance he found Junho. The man was dressed warmly and watching him with weary eyes. Opening the door wide he smiled.

                “I didn’t think you would be here so soon.” He commented as Junho slunk around him. He kicked off his boots and padded his way down the hall.

                “Min-Jun said to clean some things, and...I volunteered to bring the leftover bread to the hybrid shelter. Have to mentally prepare myself for that too...” The pup grumbled and set to work on his tasks. "He said it was okay for me to go there since you'll be with me."

                Chansung wanted to inquire as to why they should head to the shelter if Junho didn't want to, but he was shrugged off. Not wanting to push, and seeing there was no need to interfere, he would get his answers in time he was sure. Recalling his heated food awaiting him in the microwave he excitedly bounded over. Retrieving his food, he seated himself at the table and opened the book again.

                It surprises me to know how the world is changing when Fortune's origins were so pleasant. Times have changed immensely. In olden times, Foxes and humans lived together, and the humans respected our teachings about the Realm. They understood that when someone was ready, they were not be present when we were to celebrate the individual moving on in their journey with festivals afterwards. There did come a time in our history when humans were allowed to begin participating, but that was only residents from Fortune who knew us - and we knew them. The history of the town may be recounted later. What should be known is Fortune has and always will remain a safe haven for Foxes. Today, the humans have themselves vowed to never cease the festivals, and I don’t doubt it, but I don’t think they’ll remember their purpose in the future. It is nice to know that they will continue to have them. It means to me that they will remember us no matter what may come of our clans. By having it written here I hope someone will always be able to remind the residents why the Fox festivals occur. In other places, things have not been so great, the humans have failed – tragically.

                Many do not know of the Colonies – places Foxes are sent when they do not cooperate. Some have been known to be murdered – whole families! Kits and all –

                Chansung closed the book and covered his eyes. The food in his mouth, so delicious, had become bitter all of a sudden. Gazing at the book he pondered whether to continue now or save it for later. Looking down at his lunch, his stomach won. Besides, he wanted to ask Min-Jun about the author, which would have to wait until later. Turning his attention to the pup, the shorter man was bagging the leftover breads and assorted goods.

                “You don't seem all that comfortable with going to the shelter. If you tell me where it is I can bring in the leftovers for you.”

                The anxious man faced him briefly and looked very much relieved at his suggestion. It went unsaid, but Chansung could see the appreciation on his face. “It's okay. It isn't like I haven't been in there before, and even though I have complicated history with the place, I want to uphold Min-Jun's belief. We don't have many spaces for us in Fortune, and it's always an opportunity to make sure we're supporting anyone who might be there. It was because of Min-Jun..." He trailed off and smiled. "Anyway, after we drop off the stuff we can travel down Main Street and see the landmarks in town. It’s a good starting point.”

                "Okay, but if you really don't need to go in, it's no bother for me." Well, at least he was talking to him calmly. That was a good sign. He might avoid his eyes but Chansung didn’t mind.

                "It's really okay. You'll be with me." He said and then turned to continue finishing up his task.

                Chansung let it slide for now. Finishing the rest of his lunch he brought the dishes to the sink. Heading back to the book, he let his eyes roam over it slowly before taking it up and heading to the stairs. Fanning through the pages he realised it was a very short document. Not only was there text but also drawings. He paused on a page with the drawing of a charm. It had many jewels of varying sizes. Looking at the caption, it read: the great spirit's totem. He had seen it before but he didn't know where. Sighing, he went back to flipping through the book until he came to to the end. A black and white photograph fluttered to the ground. As he crouched down he stilled. Trailing his finger over the glossy surface his eyes widened a little.

                The resemblance was uncanny, a young Wooyoung stared back at him. He was being held by a man who was back on to the camera. He was too tall to be Min-Jun. For some reason...he reminded him of his own father. A smile stretched over his lips, and he cooed, “his cheeks were so cute, even then!” Snatching it up he couldn’t help but grin. Turning it over he found a single word.

                Family.

                Facing the black and white photo again he frowned. Who took the picture? Min-Jun? Who was the man holding Wooyoung? Did Min-Jun slip this inside on purpose? He wouldn’t be surprised. The cunning bear wouldn’t have let this slide. Noticing the man holding Wooyoung also held something in his other hand, he squinted to try and make it out. It was circular with a distinctive shape. Eyes widening once more, he realised it was the fox emblem which hung downstairs.

                Hearing a soft sigh, his head snapped to the side to find Junho standing beside him, arms folded across his chest. He looked irritated but restrained.

                “You didn’t hear me call out...” He murmured.

                “Oh...my bad, Junho.” Stuffing the picture back into the book he rose up. Junho flinched a little and took a step back. “I’ll get dressed if you’re ready to leave.”

                Junho nodded and ran back down the stairs.

                How long had he been standing there? The poor pup was still apprehensive and wouldn't even touch him to try and get his attention. Pursing his lips together he dropped his head and continued on to Wooyoung’s room. He dressed quickly and fixed his hair. Making his way back down, eyes trailing over the sparsely covered walls, he found Junho at the back entrance waiting patiently, quietly.

                “Do you live nearby, Junho?” He asked as he slipped into his coat and boots.

                He nodded, “about a fifteen minute walk.” He held out a bag which Chansung took. Their fingers touched briefly and Junho jerked back slightly. “Sorry...I don’t mean to be nervous-"

                “It’s alright. You really don’t need to take me around if you don’t want to.” Chansung assured.

                “No...you make me nervous because I’ve only just met you. If Wooyoung feels comfortable around you..." Junho said and moved out the door. "I’ll be fine.”

                “How long have you known Wooyoung?”

                “Hm...I’m 20 so...” Junho scratched his head and looked up at the sky. “Seven years,” He said with a sad smile. “I can’t believe it’s been that long already.”

                “You’re 20?!” He shouted louder than he intended.

                Junho jumped around in fright but chuckled a little. “You thought I was younger? How old are you?”

                “Older than you,” He teased and ruffled Junho’s hair. The pup eyed him through narrowed eyes. “Sorry, I won’t touch anymore.”

                "Thank you." He said.

                Junho continued on but snuck glances at him every so often. Chansung turned his attention towards the neighbourhood. They passed by the coffee shop he had ducked into on the way in. He noticed the rabbit-girl as she waved. Returning the gesture he couldn’t help but smile. He would need to drop in and thank her at some point. Noticing Junho had stopped a little ways ahead he walked quickly to catch up. They passed through a small residential area before coming to a large school. There were children playing in the yard.

                “I didn’t realise Fortune was this big.” He commented, noticing that the town extended much further than he observed upon his arrival.

                “It’s been growing a lot in the past couple years. The population is about 4,000.” Junho answered and motioned down another street.

                This one was filled with apartment buildings, a church, what appeared to be a small mall and grocer, and a community centre. The building they seemed to be heading to was between an apartment building and the community centre. There was a moment of hesitation on Junho's part as they came to the stairs. He looked up for a long time before motioning for Chansung to follow him. This could only have been a place of trauma for him then. Why would Min-Jun agree for him to come here if Junho had bad experiences at the shelter? He kept himself guarded for anything that might happen, especially for Junho's sake.

                Following Junho as he did indeed begin ascending up the stairs, a woman burst out of the doors and shoved into the younger man. Chansung moved forward quickly and caught him against his chest. Junho stilled immediately but didn’t move away as she stormed past them, muttering unpleasant names and other things Chansung let bother him more than he should.

                "Oh, already moving onto another one are you, mutt?" She hissed at the pup, who curled into Chansung. A bitter smell invaded Chansung's nose and he hissed slightly making her jerk away from them.

                “Call him mutt one more time and accuse him of adulteries again, omega, I dare you.” He sniped and kept Junho close to him.

                The woman recoiled instantly. She stumbled a little down the rest of the steps but didn’t look back.

                “Just ignore her...she’s always like that.” Junho said quietly. “You can let me go now.”

                Chansung snapped his hand back and Junho righted himself. “Sorry I...I tend to go into overprotective mode when people do things like that...”

                Junho’s lips tugged into a hint of a smile. He made to say something but then his cheeks went awfully pink, and he turned quickly to carry on into the building. Chansung caught up the best he could because he didn't want the pup to be alone in this place. As soon as he entered a barrage of scents overwhelmed him. Dulling his sense of smell wasn’t something he liked to do often but he knew he would have to do it here. Rubbing the bridge of his nose he shook his head and carried on. He followed Junho to a kitchen where a large man was cooking away. A woman was bustling between the sink and the table barely in sight.

                “Ah! Junho! We didn’t think we’d be getting anything today. Min-Jun said he was too busy to deliver since he had a wedding.” She stopped abruptly and cupped his cheeks, and Chansung saw the tension in Junho's body. “You’re looking healthier and healthier every day.” She said before turning her attention up towards him. “Don’t tell me you’re bringing us a stray...”

                Once more the pup was edging close to him, and was gripping his coat sleeve a little bit. "No, just dropping off days old bread."

                Chansung almost felt insulted but he remained silent. He felt even more alert than before and not being able to depend on his nose bothered him immensely. Honestly, his mother was right, he should have been born a dog. At least then Junho would have felt a little more at peace around him as a stranger.

                “This is Min-Jun’s new clerk and assistant. He’s not a stray...just a wanderer.” Junho said, surprisingly kind and honest.

                “Oh? Well, it doesn't surprise me.” She said and adjusted her spectacles. “Ah well, whenever you need a break from that crazy old bear you’re more than welcome here. We’d put your strength to good use.”

                Chansung could help but anger at her calling Min-Jun crazy. “I’m quite content where I am. He's a great person, even wants to donate to your shelter when he doesn't have to.” Chansung said slowly and handed Junho the bag he had been made to carry. Junho was looking at him with a surprised expression.

                “Baron should be dropping by in a little bit, do you want a ride back home, Junho?” The woman asked, dismissively.

                Chansung felt a bitter sensation along his tongue. Junho's scent was filled with fear and Chansung could feel him going into a panic. Something was amiss here. They should have never come to the shelter. He made a point of never putting himself in harms way, intentionally.

                “No, we’ve got some things to do. Give my regards to Hulda.” Junho took his hand quickly, willingly and strongly, and led him outside. Chansung couldn’t help wanting to leave faster either, to get to fresh air, to use his senses as he wished. There was something about that place that was not good. 

                It might have been the fact he hadn’t been in a city in a long time but he just wasn’t used to being around so many different hybrids at once, or within a place where they frequented. With the wolves it had just been them and he was given time to adjust. Here though, if they were like the omega earlier, he didn’t want to frequent this place at all. Plus Junho's reactions were enough to make him never want to go to the shelter again. Even if it was meant to be a place for hybrids, there was just something about it that didn't seem right, especially since his nose couldn't handle it.

                “Sorry about that, she’s..." Junho apologised. "She's always like that.” He explained further as he led them down another street. This one was filled with shops, older houses, restaurants, and a small park. “This is the main road. Well, I’m sure you can tell.”

                “I can tell why you don't like going there. It isn't a good place.” He had meant it to be a question, but it had been obvious with the way Junho was averse to going and retreated at the mention of the man named ‘Baron’.

                Junho glanced at him briefly and shrugged. “I...lived there for a little while. After my mother...” Junho slowly trailed off and shook his head. “Anyway, it just doesn’t have good memories for me - or many hybrids for that matter.”

                Chansung didn’t press, he didn’t have the right. This was especially true since Junho didn’t trust cats very much. They stopped beside the park. “I won't press, and I'm concerned that Min-Jun agreed for you to go -"

                "I've been...trying to go, every once in a long while. I don't want that place to have power over me. I promised myself this would be the last time though, I was really hoping Hulda would be there."

                Chansung smiled. "So, tell me where Fortune began.”

                Finally, Junho’s expression relaxed and his shoulders drooped as his tension melted away. “The humans say this park, but Fortune really began in the hills which housed the dens out by the shrine,” Junho pointed North. “Min-Jun was the one who told me that, and the raven Elder.”

                Chansung balked, “there’s a raven Elder here?”

                Junho shook his head sadly. “She passed away two years ago.”

                Chansung wanted to collapse to the ground. Ravens were among the wisest amongst the bird hybrids. “I’m sorry to hear that...”

                Junho led him onwards. “The town has festivals that are held each year and they’re usually in this park. You’re in luck too, the autumn festival is coming up soon. We should be getting notice any day now. I don’t know if Min-Jun is going to want to participate or not. He didn’t last year because of personal circumstances.”

                “Are they held around the same time?” He asked and then recalled the passage from the book he'd read earlier. He wondered if they were the same.

                “Yeah, one in spring and the other autumn, legends say that foxes preferred being around humans in those times in Old Fortune.”

                “Legends huh..?”

                Junho carried on, pointing out some of his favourite places to eat, as well as one in particular that he, Wooyoung, and Min-Jun ate every two weeks. It was a small diner with old fashioned booths and tables. The slogan read, “Joan's - the best strawberry smoothie in town”. Chansung trailed his finger along the glass. They walked and talked about the town, Junho continued to point out subtle landmarks. He stopped him at a street called ‘Times Past Road’.

                “That’s an interesting name,” he commented and indicated to the sign.

                “It leads up to the old denning area.” Junho said and rubbed his arms. “I can take you there another day. I’m sure you’d prefer to go there than the temple, but they have a really nice warm apple cider which would be great right about now.” Junho said as he continued along. They walked onto Times Past and then Junho turned them onto a recently swept and decorated stone staircase.

                “So...the foxes would have lived in this area, right?” Chansung asked as he looked around.

                Junho nodded.

                Chansung stopped and took in his surroundings. He could see why. It was different here compared to other parts of the town, it felt different. The musk of humans and many other hybrids were not as strong. Even though it seemed they traversed here frequently, for some reason he couldn’t find it odd. Vast meadows with scattered shrub lay around the area. Pockets of tall trees like the ones in the town park resided here as well; they stretched high into the darkening sky. Turning up the stairs, his patient chaperone was already at the top waiting for him. He looked so cute when he was waiting like that, just like a dog. Junho was so very different but similar to the wolves. Making his way up finally Junho pursed his lips cutely but continued on.

                As his gaze traveled up and over the shrine he stilled. This was his first time seeing one so intact. Statues of foxes lined the way up to the main center. They were set in the same position, poised with their heads toward the sky. A deep emotion barreled through his chest and he gripped his coat tightly. This was the first time in a long while that he felt he was really and truly on the right path. Now he was even more sure that he needed to stay here. There were so many interesting things, so many people who were full of mystery and who seemed to know things which he desired, things he wanted knowledge of.

                Walking up to the main structure, the building was made of similar stone and very simple. Elaborate decorations were carved all along it’s surface. There were some candles lit out of the many which rested within. Junho was seated before them on a small bench, two steaming cups of cider in his hands. Before he could take a seat, again, he heard the soft jingle. No, he heard it clearer this time. It was the chime of a bell. It flashed for only a second, but he was back and walking through snow, a white fox in his arms. A gentle hand was grasping his and he met Junho's concerned gaze.

                "Are you okay?" He asked softly.

                Chansung looked out across the forest. Something was calling him, but he didn't know what. He looked out and noticed the train station in the distance. He was sure he was standing in the direction he looked that day. Taking a seat beside June, a cup was handed to him. “I'm fine. Thank you...” He murmured and looked over the small shrine once more. “Do many people come here?”

                “I suppose so...mainly in the summer.” Junho said and crossed his legs. “Not many know that this shrine exists.”

                Chansung couldn’t resist nodding. “I’m glad that’s the case...”

                “But...it would have been easier for you to find if more people knew...” Junho said quietly.

                Shrugging, he couldn’t help but disagree. “Not necessarily,” He said after a while. “I believe that we are meant to face certain situations, to journey, or to remain in one place, or both. We have a purpose. Sometimes we don’t like it, but we’re meant to be where we are because we made our choice. Everything is a choice...” He explained and sat back. “I don’t think I would have known how to appreciate this – any of this – if I had come here first. I’ve seen five other shrines, and this is the only once I have seen that is so intact and true to its original form.”

                “Five? That doesn’t seem like a lot...” Junho said disbelievingly. "You'd think there would be more."

                “There were...once.” He said softly.

                Junho said no more on the matter though, and didn't ask any other questions. To be truthful, Chansung didn’t want to say anything. It felt like such an honour to finally be here, to truly be in a place where foxes were still recognised and treated with respect and not villainized. Noticing his guide shivering a little bit, he smiled. He too was beginning to feel a little bit of a chill.

                “Come on, we should head back. I don’t want to be blamed if you catch a cold.” He said and finished the last of the cider. “This was really good. Thank you for treating me.”

                Junho seemed to flush and shrugged his shoulders. “I...had more fun than I thought I would.”

                Chansung grinned, “oh? That makes me really happy.”

                They descended and made their way back into the town. Before they could round a corner, Junho had halted completely and pulled him back. Surprised by the sudden action Chansung looked down to see a blush adorning his smooth cheeks.

               “Hey...” Junho’s hand flew up and he looked around. Well, maybe the pup was planning on kidnapping him or selling him out after all. But he was too cute to possibly do that, he surmised. Especially since Junho's cheeks were so adorably red.

               “There’s...this is honestly the worst timing.”

               Chansung looked down at him confused. “What?”

               Junho’s ears popped out and he whimpered slightly.

               “Obviously it’s a good surprise...”

               Junho growled slightly. “Why did this have to happen with you around?”

               Chansung rolled his eyes. “I thought we were having fun - "

               “I am...but this is different.”

               “Boo!” A girl popped around the corner startling them both. Junho fell back and completely transformed into his true form. Chansung looked over his beautiful brown fur and almost – almost – cooed. The girl laughed and brushed back her hair. “I thought it was you I saw, Junho!” She said and began scooping up his clothes like this was a common occurrence. She held out her hand to him and grinned, “I’m Min.”

                Chansung gave her a small smile in return and shook her hand, “Chansung.”

                “Oh? So you’re Min-Jun’s new cashier! It’s nice to meet you.”

                Feeling a warm body press against his leg he looked down to find Junho seated behind him, face turned away. Odd. Well...yes, odd. “I take it you’re a friend of Junho’s here?” He reached down and scratched behind his ears. The pup growled, which made him sigh.

                “Mm...yes. Although, he’s been avoiding me recently, so I’m happy to have run into him here.” Min crouched down and Junho shuffled further away. “Oh come on, why are you acting this way?” She huffed and poked Junho in the neck. He playfully bit her fingers but edged back further into his legs. Chansung crossed his arms. He saw what was going on here but he would interrogate the guy later. “Seems today he still doesn’t want to talk to me. Oh well, here are his clothes.” Min said and rested them over his arm. “I’ll be dropping down soon!” She pointed at Junho. “It was nice to meet you, Chansung. You’re handsomer than the rumours say.” She winked and skipped off.

                When she was a fair distance away, Chansung glanced down. Junho’s gaze shifted up and down, between him and the sidewalk. Shaking his head, Junho nipped his leg and took off. “Hey! I didn’t ask to run into your friend. Why are you acting this way anyway, huh? She really wanted to see you!” He called, chasing after him. “A cat chasing a dog, this is going to sound terrible to the guys later. Or maybe they'll just make fun and laugh, they seem like the type to do that. Maybe they planned all of this!” When they finally arrived at the bakery he was out of breath, flushed, and sweating. “You little dweeb...” He grumbled and stalked around to the back. Finding the van there he couldn’t help but grin. They were home!

                Bounding in the back door he waited for Junho to enter who scurried into the kitchen and beelined for Wooyoung. He jumped up and braced his paws against the man's back. “What the hell..?” Wooyoung started but trailed off. "Yah, that's cold!" Junho continued to press his paws into his backside and whined. “Go upstairs,” Wooyoung murmured. “Put on my clothes and-” Junho raced for the stairs. "You better come back down here and explain what the hell happened!"

                Junho flew up the stairs, leaving Chansung with his clothes and a questioning look from Wooyoung.

                “First, it isn’t what it looks like.” Chansung said as he set down the clothes over the back of a chair.

                “Mmhmm,” Wooyoung said an amused smile gracing his lips.

                “We left the shrine and started on our way back, and then we met his friend Min and he just...turned into his hybrid and started acting all shy.” Chansung explained as he hung up his coat.

                “Oh...” Wooyoung’s brows rose. “Wow, did he sit right up against you?”

                Chansung nodded.         

                “Wow, Min-Jun is going to love that.”

                Chansung groaned and gripped Wooyoung’s shoulders. “Explain to me who this Min is and why Junho acts that way. I have my own assumptions but I gotta know. Why would Min-Jun love the fact he cuddled up right against me?”

                Wooyoung shrugged. “He’s shy around girls.”

                Chansung gripped his hair and hissed, “don’t lie to me!”

                Wooyoung began to laugh and took up his mug of coffee. “I’m not lying. He’s really shy around women, especially the cute little Min. As for Min-Jun, and me too I guess, it's just a good sign that he likes you enough to depend on you like that. Which means your trip to the shelter wasn't overly terrible.”

                Chansung eyed him, but Wooyoung remained neutral. “How was your day?”

                “Excellent.” Wooyoung said and continued on with the same tone. “How was yours?”

                “Amazing.”

                Wooyoung’s eyes brightened for a second. “Did you see the shrine?”

                Chansung nodded enthusiastically. Taking up one of Wooyoung’s hands he grinned. “Your tuna was amazing, too!”

                The slender man seemed taken aback. “Here I thought you’d have a ton of questions.”

                Chansung grinned, “I’ll save those for when you’re trying to sleep.”

                Wooyoung’s lip twitched and his eyes narrowed. “You better not.”

                “Hm, well if you gave me straight answers we wouldn’t have this dilemma.” Chansung said as he took a step back. The warm fingers slowly fell away from his, and he missed them.

                Wooyoung seemed to relax a little bit. “There have to be other more interesting things to do before bed time.”

                Chansung’s jaw dropped. “Are you insinuating what I think you are?”

                Wooyoung smacked his shoulder. “I wasn’t implying -"

                “Why is Junho wearing your clothes and moping in the living room?” Min-Jun asked, leaning against the stairway wall.

                “He saw Min.” Both he and Wooyoung responded together.

                Min-Jun’s brows went up and his mouth formed an ‘o’. “Did you get my present, Chansung?”

                “I did! I can’t thank you enough for letting me read it. I didn’t get through much because Junho showed up though,” he said and leaned against the counter.

                “The author was one of the last fox residents. I believe his name was Darren. It was after much of the fox traditions had been dwindling due to low population.”

                Well, that was one of his curiosities answered. “How did you get it?”

                Min-Jun shrugged. “I’ll tell you some other time. I’m off to bed. We have an early day tomorrow!” He waved and strolled back up the stairs.

                Chansung watched him go but then turned back to the enigma. Wooyoung eyed him once more over his coffee mug, those dark eyes looking him over, full of answers but never revealing anything. “What interesting things are there to do before bed time?” He couldn't help but ask him.

                Wooyoung’s eyes brightened. “Shall we tease our beloved Junho about his crush?”

                “You’re evil.”

                Wooyoung laughed as they made their way towards his target. And, rather than dissuading him, Chansung was ever so curious as to how Junho would react, but he truly just wanted to spend some time with Wooyoung.

*

Next Chapter...The Notice for Celebration