erlangmp

[erlangmp]

All Tangled Up

Closed starter for the young woman with strings attached @mpxyingyue

Taking place during the Lunar New Year Feast at the Golden Palace

Erlang Shen seemed to always be on duty; it was difficult for him to just relax when at large gatherings such as this. Especially when odd things had been happening--odd things that were strangely reminiscent of a certain monkey's mischief. It was quite odd for those curtains to just catch on fire as they had--and luckily, there had when a couple of skilled practitioners of elemental magic who could douse the little fires. Quan was on the case, naturally, sniffing about in search of the culprit while the sage himself walked through the crowds of others mingling and enjoying the party.

He had been busy scanning others in the distance that he almost did not notice someone a bit closer to him and narrowly avoided collision with the young woman. "Apologies, ma'am," he said politely.

[erlangmp]

The little bit of attention Quan received would satisfy him for now, a low grown of approval as his ears flattened a bit in pleased approval, tail still swishing with contentment--but the moment the pets stopped, the massive hound just pressed the top of his head in a nudging headbutt at In-soo's hip.

The father's embrace, however, did not relent; there may have been a brief respite to exchange a few words, but the strength of the arm still at his son's shoulder lingered on a bit longer. An encounter of this magnitude--reuniting with his son--that was not something that could be so easily dismissed; because even though Erlang Shen knew In-soo to be his son, the son of a protection deity and likely to be all right in the long run, there was still the parental instinct of worry and panic when a father could not find his child...and once finding him again, Erlang Shen was reluctant to let go; just that physical reassurance that he was there, that he was safe; he needed that to last, if only for a little bit longer.

The squeeze to his hand was welcomed and returned--strong, but not too strong; he had to dial back his strength, he knew, had to be gentle because his son was still mortal and the last thing he ever wanted to do was hurt In-soo, so it became a gentle but very firm reciprocation. It didn't occur to him that his boy would feel the ring, that he might have questions about it, might question the preposterous notion that there would possibly be anyone else in Erlang Shen's life.

But it was true, learning from Xiwangmu that his son was indeed on the island had been more than enough incentive for the god to become its newest resident. But discussion about Iseul and seeing so much of the woman he loved within their son had been...a bit much for him, and he appreciated that second squeeze to his hand. "Yes...she was...very amazing." All right, words failed him a bit in moments like this, perhaps a bit overwhelmed with emotions he hadn't let himself feel in a very long time.

A brief glance to the bench elicited a slow shake of his head in protest. "A more private locale would be preferred," he admitted as his attention returned to his son. "I am curious to see your home. You do not live in the apartments? And you have a...roommate? Very close friend?" he asked, curious to learn more about the boy he had missed for the last twenty years.

Quan's turn would come soon enough. He would get all the the pats, scratches and hugs he so craved for. But right in that moment, he had to understand that In-Soo had many things to ask his father, many memories to share. He did pet the dog though, smiling at him before turning back towards Erlang.

It probably would take time until everything was said and explained. Fortunately, In-Soo didn't plan on going anywhere else for the moment. They had all the time they wanted to talk, even if it took forever. The vet was ready to hear everything, maybe if it hurt, maybe if he didn't like what he learnt.

Hugging his father was quite a new sensation for the demigod. Different from his mother or even Juyeon. But he felt the same tenderness, the same caring emotions coming from Erlang. There was something so warm, a mix of strength and softness coming from his father that the tears finally fell, In-Soo letting flow down his face freely, not trying to stop them. Crying wasn't a weakness and he wasn't afraid to show it. His mother was gone but his father was there and even if it wasn't the same, they were still family.

The young man noticed the glistening veil in the god's eyes and his slide his hand in his, squeezing it tightly. He could feel the ring under his fingers and through his gloves. He didn't know what to feel about that, was there another family, siblings that he didn't know about ? Later In-Soo thought. It'll be questions for another time. 

The was no teahouse anymore but they still could be happy in Mount Phoenix, together again.

In-Soo chuckled, a weird little strangled laughter. "Well, nice to know that I caught your interest !" He winked, showing he clearly was joking. But then he got serious again, once more squeezing his father's fingers. It hurt him to see the sadness and the suffering in his eyes. "I can only dream of being like her. She was the most amazing person I have ever known."

Then the vet gave a small smile, gesturing towards the few empty benches around them. "Would you like to sit here or go to a café ? I could even bring you to my house, my roommate is not there this afternoon."

[erlangmp]

The surprise on Wang Yanluo's face at having his invitation accepted was...pleasantly unexpected; though perhaps Erlang Shen could somewhat understand if the god was not accustomed to it; after all, this island was an anomaly. It was an interesting place, really. Where gods and demigods alike from several different pantheons could interact when they otherwise would not--even within their own pantheon. From what he understood of Wang Yanluo, prior to Mount Phoenix, he had spent the majority of his time in Diyu and...the sage did could not imagine the residents of Diyu would be flocking to their judge and lord to simply...go for a stroll. It was intimidating, of course, and for Erlang Shen to have been extended the invitation, it was certainly an honor. How could it be considered anything less so?

Quan was more than happy to occupy the space between the two deities as they walked, content even more so to receive the occasional bit of affection when spared but also keeping an ever watchful eye (and ear and nose) on the surroundings. Hearing Wang Yanluo's chuckle, however, brought a small but warm smile to the sage's lips. It was a strange yet novel feeling to hear the great Lord of Diyu laugh, pleasantly refreshing in its own way.

Just as it was also a pleasant surprise to learn that Wang Yanluo also owned a tea house; there was something deeply nostalgic in this news, sinking even further within his core as the god continued to explain his business...though he could not help but give his fellow deity a slight quirk of his brow at learning that Xiwangmu was 'special' to him. Hm. Interesting choice of words.

Well, that only served to cause a lot of speculation to swirl within Erlang Shen's mind. Aside from knowing his aunt enjoyed the Lord of Diyu's tea much more than any she had experienced in a very, very long time, Erlang Shen knew very...very little about their relationship, so if Wang Yanluo was referring to Xiwangmu as being 'special' to him, well, that raised a lot of questions--questions that could wait for a more opportune time to discuss.

He continued to take in the sights as they walked, casting his company the occasional side glance. He listened as Wang Yanluo spoke of turning a hobby into a lucrative business and...was actually somewhat surprised to hear that Hui Wei Cha was the first of its kind on the island--though honestly, he was not at all surprised to learn that it was popular. "I will have to stop by sometime then." Especially if Wang Yanluo's tea was as good as his aunt made it seem; and she was not at all easily impressed when it came to a very good cup of longjing tea.

Mention of his 'shapeshifter son' elicited a small smile and nod from the sage while Quan's ears perked and tail wagged just a little, knowing the demigod had been mentioned. "Mmm yes," he confirmed warmly. "That was certainly a welcome...interruption." He paused, giving Wang Yanluo another side glance. His words were slow and deliberate. "He did mention that you had met Though...I would have preferred the encounter to have been under more pleasant circumstances, as...his mother and her family also owned a tea house, though...unfortunately, that does not appear to be...the origin of your meeting. Please, allow me to extend a humble apology for any impertinence demonstrated. However, I trust that whatever dissonance occurred between the two of you has since resolved following appropriate...redirection."

It would appear that Erlang Shen was aware of how Wang Yanluo had retaliated to what had been interpreted as disrespect and...did not appear dissatisfied with the outcome.

completely unaware of both erlang shen's and quan's thoughts and feelings towards him, yanluo had simply continued the interaction as usual; in ways he normally also would have with anyone else. to be revered by mortals was something the god of death was used to, but to be respected and loved for being who he was, for being worthy and for his seniority, now that was still rather new and unknown to yanluo in spite of having lived eons already.

the slip-up of having uttered his personal nickname for xiwangmu went completely unnoticed by yanluo, whose thoughts had been mostly preoccupied by the adoring hound at his feet. plus, yanluo had become to accustomed to referring to xiwangmu so intimately by then that it had become a habit to name the goddess as such. it would have to be something yanluo would have to pay better attention to going forward though. it wouldn't do for others to hear the term of endearment when technically it was meant for xiwangmu's ears only.

hearing erlang react positively towards accompanying yanluo, and mentioning that it was an honour, had been quite unexpected to yanluo and he had blinked in surprise before his facial expression had been masked with polite kindness once more. the mention of quan being spoiled rotten did elicit a chuckle from the god though before they slowly started making their way down the corridor and towards the exit of their apartment building.

as they walked, erlang suddenly mentioned yanluo's tea house and how appreciative xiwangmu was of it and the tea he offered. it was then that yanluo remembered that, indeed, erlang was mumu's nephew and yanluo couldn't help the secretive smile that pulled the corners of his lips upwards. he glanced at erlang once the other was finished speaking. "ah yes, we do have the best selection of tea at hui wei cha.. some i prepare myself. how could i disappoint your aunt? she is special to me, after all." and he left unsaid just exactly what he meant by that. looking out in front of him again, the god continued his walk towards central park together with erlang and the hound between them.

"i enjoy tea. i enjoy drinking it and i love preparing it. you could say it's a.. hobby of mine. one i turned into a business which i hoped would thrive on the island. luckily my establishment is the first of its kind here so i have no complaints about its popularity." the god chuckled softly, tilting his head back a little to breathe in the crisp winter air and allowing it to fill his lungs. yanluo got cold easily but lately he's been enjoying the fresh air as he was recovering.

"... you mentioned your explorations of the island were deferred earlier.. might that have had something to do with a certain shapeshifter son of yours?" yanluo breached the subject, carefully but also with clear intent. if erlang hadn't yet met his son, then yanluo felt it as his duty to mention that he had a child and that said child was nearby. and if the god had indeed already reconnected with his offspring, then yanluo definitely wanted to make it clear that he too knew that erlang had a son, and had made his acquaintance with him.

[erlangmp]

Family celebration

In-Soo was still in a dazed mood since Erlang’s arrival in Mount Phoenix. The first days had been a tsunami of emotions, flooding him over and over again. There had been a lot of questions and reassessments until the young man had been able to digest everything.

But now things were looking better and the demigod had found a profound love for his father in his heart. He was always impatient to see or talk to him and there was not a day during which they didn’t text each other.

And of course, their weekly dinner.

The one of that night was special though. They were going to celebrate the Lunar New Year’s Eve together, for the first time ever. So In-Soo prepared a lot of side dishes to bring to Erlang’s place, as well as the gift he had prepared for his father.

As soon as Erlang had arrived, In-Soo had ordered a portrait of his mother to one of the numerous artists on the island. Helped with their powers, they had been able to finish their work just in time. So the vet arrived at his father’s with a beautifully framed portrait of Im Iseul, wrapped in an elegant golden paper decorated with red ribbons.

“Happy Lunar New Year !” the demigod exclaimed as Erlang opened to door. He smiled, handing the package to the other. “That’s for you.”

_____________________________________________________

        Accepting the side dishes provided and placing them on the table had been the first order of business; the second order of business had been accepting the gift his son had given him and, upon unwrapping it, immediately recognized  the beautiful face staring back at him.  It caused Erlang Shen to pause, to stare at the face that only existed in his memory for years.  A trembling exhale escaped his lips as a tidal wave emotions crashed into his heart; both sorrow and joy, love and loss, reflected in the slight sheen of tears in his eyes that he refused to allow to fall.

         “Thank you, Soo-ya,” he finally whispered as he accepted the framed photograph.  He had the perfect place for it, truly, hanging it on the wall in the den so her gentle eyes could watch over father and son as they enjoyed their first Lunar New Year meal together.

[erlangmp]

Of course he was curious--curious not just of why Wang Yanluo would come to Mount Phoenix, but of his physical wellbeing; though he did not voice this, obviously; some circumstances called for discretion and a far more delicate and diligent approach to obtain the appropriate details. For now, yes, his studious gaze could be interpreted as mere curiosity.

Hearing that the god thought him most suited for the task appointed to him, Erlang Shen nodded graciously. "I will continue working hard," he replied in humble acceptance of what he considered high praise from his elder. For the moment, however, his gaze dipped to watch the interaction between Quan and Wang Yanluo, observing the touches and the scritches, how the hound's tail swished a bit stronger at the physical attention he received from someone so highly respected. Because Quan knew, oh yes, Quan KNEW--just as his master did--the truth and worth behind the Lord of Diyu.

The invitation to accompany Wang Yanluo was met with another polite nod. He nearly spoke his acceptance, though held his tongue until the god had completed his thought. A tour of the park? That also sounded appealing; his prior soiree into the space had been sidetracked by the reunion with his son so his exploration had understandably been placed on hold. However, it was when Wang Yanluo spoke his aunt's name in a very informal, very familiar, and somewhat affectionate way that elicited a slight perk of his brow and an almost amused (but mostly curious) glint in his eyes. Oh? What was this? A development of sorts? He had not been aware Xiwangmu and the Lord of Diyu were on such FRIENDLY TERMS.

A myriad of questions rose in the back of his mind then, but he pocketed them for now because this was not the place nor circumstance to discuss such personal and intimate matters--nor did he believe it would appropriate for him to ask at all. Instead, he centered on the operative information in his fellow deity's statements.

"I would be honored to accompany you, sir," he replied, ever the respectful one, clearly a man of discipline, a soldier. "Admittedly, my own explorations were earlier deferred due to another matter." Such as reconnecting with his son.

Yet as he spoke, he watched as Wang Yanluo unexpectedly lowered himself to sit on his haunches before the massive black hound, Quan practically melting under the petting he received, the massages to those ears eliciting a pleased and low groan from the beast who CLEARLY enjoyed this attention. While certainly a surprise to witness a god lower himself in such a manner, Erlang Shen could not blame him at all; his dog was a formidable force in ferocity and adorableness. That short, sleek coat of midnight perfectly accentuated the beast's firm muscles and radiated Quan's strength and warm divinity. Erlang Shen clicked his tongue once, shaking his head from amusement, then muttered under his breath, "Rotten. Spoiled rotten."

Would the Howling Celestial Dog want to accompany him? Of course he would! The kiss to his brow brought further wags of his tail. The smile on Erlang Shen's face then was small but genuine. He tapped the keypad behind him to lock the door to his apartment, then returned his attention to Wang Yanluo and the kind smile he received from the Lord of Diyu. "Yes, we shall," he agreed and held out one end of the lead toward Quan as the hound drew neared, the tip of his leash morphing and ultimately connecting to the dog's collar as Quan joined him at his side opposite Wang Yanluo, remaining between the two gods as they continued their way down the corridor (just in case either of them felt COMPELLED to grant the canine an occasional pet).

"My aunt has informed me you have a tea house in the Bohemian District and that it is one of her most favorite places to frequent on the island. One does not so easily impress my aunt. Especially when tea is involved."

not knowing why he was being scrutinised but definitely aware of it happening, yanluo simply chalked it up to a thinly veiled interest in his person. after all, he hadn't been this close to erlang before, and he figured the other god must be curious which was all fine and dandy. plus, the part of yanluo that enjoyed being revered was definitely pleased with the careful consideration shining in erlang's eyes. the other god's regard for propriety pleased yanluo the most.

erlang's response was met with a careful glance and a hum of satisfaction. this island could do with a proper and serious chief of police, and the council definitely needed erlang to represent the chinese pantheon because chang'e had proven to be sorely inadequate in his job. yanluo quickly suffocated that train of thought, as he wasn't up for feeling bitter thinking about the goddess who had no business being a goddess in the first place. now, erlang - he was a different story entirely. that man had deserved his ascension and continued to prove his worth as a god.

"i believe you are most suited for those tasks.." yanluo said softly, once again looking back at quan who had come closer at the nod of approval from his master. the lord of diyu watched with soft eyes exuding warmth as the hound sniffed his hand. the impressive animal then pressed his brow into the palm of yanluo's hand and the god exhaled quietly, enjoying the physical warmth the dog provided him. sometimes he missed diyu's heat. his body was prone to be colder in the mortal world, so touching a living being that was naturally warm-blooded was pleasant.

yanluo's hand moved up the side of the hound's head and his long, elegant fingers found the back of one of those cute ears, scratching the fur there lightly. the smile on yanluo's face was clearer now, shining beautifully as he regarded the dog with affectionate eyes. "good boy.." he whispered as he allowed the dog to push against his hand, asking for more delicious scritches to which yanluo obliged.

yanluo's attention was once again caught by erlang when the god spoke and he looked up respectfully, listening to the man's request. "certainly.. you may accompany me if you wish. would you like a tour of the park? i was actually on my way to mumu, but there's still some time left before i have to be there.." and technically he had no curfew ( xiwangmu wouldn't dare ) so yanluo was free to dedicate his time as he pleased. he himself was also quite curious about erlang shen.

then, yanluo did something that was entirely unexpected and not at all an action he would have allowed himself in the company of fellow gods normally; yanluo bent his knees and sank down, onto his haunches. right in front of xiaotian quan. ignoring erlang's presence entirely, the god of death smiled brightly at the other god's canine companion, bringing his other hand up to scratch behind the opposite twitching ear. "would you like to come with me too, quan? i promise i am good company." the god let out a breathy laugh when the dog whined impatiently. leaning in, the god placed a gentle kiss atop the hound's head before he rose again.

standing once more, shoulders straight, yanluo took his hands back and looked at erlang with a kind smile. "shall we?"

[erlangmp]

Quan remained the good boy that he always was, waiting patiently for his turn while father and son had their moment of reunion. Meanwhile, Erlang Shen knew he couldn't change the past, he couldn't replace the moments--or the people--lost along the way, but he could be there for his son now. And that was what mattered.

He could appreciate In-soo not hiding the truth from him, that his son would be open to discussing things with his father just as he was with his boy. Erlang Shen planned to be completely transparent with his son where he could be. He knew there were some things he could not discuss in detail, some things that should remain vague, but otherwise he planned to answer any and all of In-soo's question within the best of his ability.

The embrace lasted for a bit longer, and though he had pulled away just a little bit to look at his son's face, he did not release the young man from his grasp, his hand remaining at his back. There was something profoundly reassuring to both his heart and soul to find his son, to HOLD his son, after so long; truly, he may have been a god, and twenty years was hardly even a blink to him, but for Erlang Shen, the absence of his wife and child had felt like a millennium--and this past year alone, with Iseul's passing and his son missing, had felt closer to an eternity.

He wouldn't cry, he told himself he wouldn't, but standing there, holding In-soo in that moment, he felt that swell throughout his chest, tightening his throat, reaching his eyes with a burning sensation he attempted to suppress with a heavy blink and press of his lips into a thin line. No, no tears fell, but the sheen was present in his gaze even then as In-soo spoke of his mother's passing...but he nodded in acknowledgment of this. At that point, perhaps, the weight of the traumatic and melancholy memories far surpassed the happiness they had experienced within those walls. That tea house had once been a happy place.

"In her defense," he spoke of his aunt, "you were not the only subject we discussed, though admittedly you were a topic of significant interest," he assured his son.

But on the subject of Iseul...there was a beat of silence, a glimmer of sadness and pain in Erlang Shen's eyes as he nodded slowly and swallowed. "Yes," he finally concluded in scarcely above a whisper, remembering just how beautiful his wife had been. "Inside and out."

In-Soo had attacked one god and it had been a lesson he wasn't going to forget soon. So he wasn't going to do it again, especially not against someone like his father. That would be absolutely unwise. He was still hurt that Erlang had left him but knowing he had (still ?) loved him had already put some balm on the wounds in his heart.

He wasn't healed yet but it was a good start.

Oh, Quan would get In-Soo's total attention soon enough ! He couldn't wait to bond again with the hound, to play with him once more. The veterinarian in him was already planning a checkup too.

They would have time to talk and the young man had already decided to not hide anything from his father. Erlang was there, had looked for him so he probably was ready to listen, to console even. Maybe they would be able to catch up with all those missed years.

But for now, he just wanted to enjoy the hug, the closeness. In-Soo could feel his energies swirl into his body. For the first time in a long while, he felt peaceful, at ease in his own body. "You better not" he answered, a small chuckle escaping him. He then squeezed his father's waist a bit before looking up at him. "I sold the house after Mom's passing, I couldn't stay there, it was too painful. Then I came here." He grinned through the sadness. "I see that she went behind my back ! But I don't mind, I'm glad she did it."

The young man sadly sighed, moving just a bit away. "Thank you. She was beautiful, wasn't she ?"

[erlangmp]

Indeed it was difficult for anyone--even tricky monkey gods--to escape the howling celestial dog's sharp ears. And while he was aware the Lord of Diyu lived in the same building, and even on the same floor as himself, Erlang Shen had not expected to encounter him so soon.

But alas, all things had their purpose and he was not about to deny the universe this meeting as clearly the timing had its reason. Convenience, perhaps? Nevertheless, he would make the best of it, and Quan was clearly adamant about ensuring the gods have their interaction. There was a small smile on his lips--respectful and polite, of course. It was somewhat refreshing--and somehow expected--to see the god in traditional robes among an otherwise modernized (and in many ways, Westernized) city.

Overall, however, he made the silent observation that at least on the outside, the Lord of Diyu appeared well. His posture and gait offering no indication toward any injuries--not that Xiwangmu had informed her nephew of any specifics; no, not at all; the only information he had been given was that someone had attacked Wang Yanluo. He did not know who, or where, or if there had been any damage--only that the deity had been attacked, nothing more. So it was a relief that he appeared well, prompting his smile to grow a bit more.

Taking the leather lead from the table in the foyer, he closed the door behind him, effectively hiding the living room with its furniture and trunks just gathered in the center, waiting to be put in its place. He would get around to it eventually, of course it could wait; for now, he focused his attention on Wang Yanluo. "Thank you," he replied to the welcome, nodding again in confirmation. "Just arrived this morning, and already police chief with a seat on the council. I hope to be of service," he further explained as he watched Quan eying the god's offered hand, the hound glancing back to his master for approval. Erlang Shen offered a slight upnod in acknowledgment which prompted the celestial dog to wag his tail a bit stronger as he redirected his attention to Wang Yanluo.

Though they scarcely knew each other, the Lord of Diyu's reputation certainly preceded him. Aside from his aunt and son, there was no one on this island Erlang Shen preferred to keep in his company than the powerful and respected Wang Yanluo. Quan approached with a twitch of his ears, giving the god's hand a couple of sniffs before bowing his head and pressing his warm brow against the cool palm, fully anticipating some divine scritches as his large pointed ears twitched a bit.

"I had planned to take him for a walk, but if you are on your way out as well, I hope you won't mind if I join you for a bit? Perhaps pick your brain a little? On your own impressions of the island, of course." Professional and courteous simultaneously, demonstrating his respect for the deity and his opinions.

yanluo spent most of his time going back and forth to his apartment and xiwangmu's residence, the golden palace. he was already completely healed; the god knew this. but xiwangmu had changed. what had happened to wang yanluo had reached so deep inside of the goddess that it had pulled an emotion from her even more intense than regular worry. xiwangmu had found it difficult to let yanluo out of her sight, and while the god didn't know whether it was due to a hidden fear that he might disappear for good this time, or because yanluo still held some of her precious energies within him that spiritually tied them together, he didn't protest. the fact that they were essentially counterparts only strengthened this bond.

but yanluo found that he didn't mind to go back to xiwangmu after a long day. he felt warmth every time the barely concealed look of worry shifted into relief when the goddess' eyes fell upon his returning form. the god allowed xiwangmu to fuss over him, and even to order him around when it was needed; sit up, eat, drink, have a bath the water is still hot. she would gently nudge him towards the guest room with a quiet take a nap, you look tired. and even if he wasn't tired at all, the god found himself following xiwangmu's words obediently. and if he stared at the ceiling again, it wasn't due to an inner turmoil that he couldn't seem to properly voice.

yanluo hadn't known that xiwangmu had somehow manage to contact erlang shen, and thus the god of death and lord of diyu hadn't expected to find the god in the divine corridor of the yao guai apartment building. it was almost late afternoon and yanluo, having finished his errands and completed duties of the day, had decided to go back to the golden palace early. yanluo was a quiet person by nature, in personality as well as in his actions. he didn't make much noise whenever he would enter or leave his apartments, but of course his level of noise was still able to be picked up by a dog - especially one as alert as xiaotian quan.

the god had just clicked his apartment door closed, locking it with a wave of his hand, when the sound of soft padded footsteps caught his ears. yanluo turned towards the other end of the corridor, blinking slowly when his gaze fell upon a large black hound with the cutest ears he'd ever seen. in fact, he'd seen this particular hound before. slowly recognition shone in the god's eyes who turned and started to move further into the corridor of the gods level. temporarily forgetting his initial plan, the god continued to approach the lively hound and merely blinked when a man came into view, exiting apartment number five.

erlang shen.

yanluo's own lips curled upwards ever so slightly, the remaining of his facial features remaining neutral as usual. when he was close enough but still a respectable distance away, the god stopped and it was at that moment when erlang addressed him. yanluo gently inclined his head in response. he was senior to erlang, and higher up the hierarchy, so there was no need to formally greet the other man. however, they did not know each other well. the only times he'd seen erlang in the past were at ascension ceremonies and even then, they had only exchanged mere pleasantries or a nod towards the other across the floor.

but erlang was a good man, and as it was, yanluo had just met his son weeks prior and learned of insoo's identity recently. the god had spoken highly of erlang to his son, and yanluo figured that perhaps he would be seeing and interacting with erlang and his son more often from now on, which was fine. while yanluo preferred his solitude, he now also knew how important social relations were and if there was someone from his pantheon that he may want near him, it would definitely be erlang.

"erlang shen." yanluo hummed, his smile a bit more profound now. "i presume you have only just arrived? welcome." the god's gaze moved from erlang back to quan and his dark brown eyes twinkled. yanluo loved animals, though this wasn't common knowledge. it definitely wasn't something most gods knew, as he wasn't particular known to be associated with animals. but that didn't make his love and interest for them any less. the god shifted a bit, the movement catching the dog's attention again and yanluo slowly raised his left hand a little, palm flat, as if to encourage the dog to come forward.

[erlangmp]

Truthfully, Erlang Shen did not know what sort of reaction to expect from his son after all this time, after everything that had happened in his absence; but given their reunion was in a somewhat public space, he did mentally prepare himself--after all, the last time he had seen In-soo, the boy had been on a emotional rampage fueled by grief, rage, fear, and hormones. Even then, the god had purposefully kept himself at a distance to protect the neighborhood around them--he just hoped history would not repeat itself.

But Quan gave another soft whine, somehow managing to refrain from bounding toward the boy-now-man and tackling him to the ground; instead, the celestial hound remained at his master's side like the good dog that he was.

In-soo was 'mostly' well? Erlang Shen did not like the sound of that, and he nearly followed up with another round of questions out of pure (protective) instinct, but stopped himself when his son moved closer. Quan's ears twitched and his tail swished with powerful fervor upon receiving the coveted scritches he yearned for, over far too soon as the demigod embraced his father.

Shocked as he was, his heart mostly felt full and warm at receiving that hug, and instinctively, his free arm wrapped around his son's back, holding him close as he hooked his chin atop In-soo's head. And for a while, he just stood there, holding him, and listening. Hearing his son had hated him, Erlang Shen felt cold cracks within his chest--of course, In-soo had every right to hate him; his father hadn't been there for him in a way he could understand, and certainly not when he needed him the most.

But the boy was right; Erlang Shen was there now.

"I will not fail you again," he whispered. Another beat, another two beats, and he finally added. "When I returned to the tea house, you were gone and it was under new management. When Xiwangmu told me you were here, I came immediately. I am...so sorry," he confessed, drawing his head back a bit; while he did not fully release his son, only looked to him. "You look so much like her..."

Since he had understood who and what he was, In-Soo had always imagined this moment, this reunion with his father. He had gone from Erlang buying him all the candies and plushies he wanted to beating his father into a pulp. But he wasn't 5 and 15 anymore and things rarely go the way people wanted them to go.

Was he angry ? Yes. Was he happy ? Yes. Was he confused ? Pretty much, yes. Especially since he had found the pictures hidden in his mother's photo album, since he knew his father had cared for him. So as they stood face to face, the vet wasn't sure if he should hug or hit him. 

In-Soo's gaze moved back to the huge dog at his father's side. Quan. Of course, he knew about the Celestial Dog but, more importantly, he recognized him from the pictures too. He had played and napped with that beast, a tiny little human so gently protected. He smiled before his eyes went back to his father.

"I'm mostly am..." In-Soo answered. "You look well too." And then he moved, not able to stay so far from the god any longer. He scratched Quan's head as he passed by the dog before wrapping his arms around his father, burying his face in the folds of his coat. He basked in the warmth the other exuded. 

"I should hate you" the young man said. "I did, for a time. But now you're here and I... "I just can't. I only want a family."

[erlangmp]

When the woman answered the door, he recognized her immediately from her file and gave her a small but polite smile. "Ms. Wing?" he began with a courteous acknowledgment of her identity. His aura, at the very least, radiated powerful strength and safety like an eye in a storm--the sort of presence that was not at all threatening...as long as one remained on their best behavior, that is. As he continued to speak, the massive black hound at his side sniffed the air near her but did not get any closer, staying by his master's side.

"Apologies for the interruption, as I am sure you are busy," he said. "My name is Erlang Shen and I am the new chief of police. This fine fellow next to me is my partner, Quan."

In response, the large canine chuffed a greeting with a slight wag of his tail. Not in the least bit intimidating; just a big puppy, really. A really...really big puppy. At least for now, at least in these moments when there was no need for him to be anything otherwise.

"While it is lovely to meet you, one can only wish that it had been under better circumstances," he continued. "May we enter? I would very much like to discuss with you the details of this unfortunate circumstance."

The explosion in the cafe's bathroom had been shocking. The demigoddess had been blessed that Siwoo had been home with one of their friends when the incident happened. Though no one was harmed, the damage to the business was astounding. What may have been a mess of porcelain destruction escalated as the water flooded the bathroom and leaked throughout most of the store at a rapid pace. By the time Angela had the building emptied and the water turned off, she knew the once beautiful cafe was in ruins. It was a miracle that no one had been hurt.

So in the day that followed, Angela stayed behind in the shop by herself, giving her staff paid leave. She had to determine what survived, and luckily for her, the food items at least did not feel the brunt of the damage. Angela ended up boxing up what pastries and bread she could save, planning on spreading it out between the police station and the counseling center. She did not want it to go to waste, and it wouldn't be the first time that the demigoddess had dropped off a large platter of treats.

When she heard the knock at the door, her brow raised, and it was the uniform that sent her to the door. Opening it, the demigoddess looked over to the man. She could not remember ever seeing him at the police station. Angela looked at the god, shifting between him and Quan. "Good afternoon, sir?" She stated, looking over at him. Despite not calling the department, she was sure this was not a visit for pleasure. "Can I help you?"

[erlangmp]

There were moments that had played over in his mind, time and time again, hypothetical situations on what he might do once reconnecting with his son after so long--but most of those scenarios had involved Iseul's presence and, since her loss, imagined circumstances hadn't been quite so pleasant or smooth.

On the one hand, he was happy to find his son well, seemingly happy even, in a place that was safe for him (or at least SHOULD be); but on the other hand...he was now an adult. That little boy had grown up far too fast and looked so much like his mother. Threads of sorrow wove throughout the blanket of joy that had enveloped his heart. In that moment, perhaps, he wanted nothing more than to embrace his son for the first time in decades, and yet...

While Erlang Shen remained still and speechless, Quan was not, the hound's entire backside wagging from side to side in tandem with his tail as his happy whine grew louder upon hearing the demigod speak, smelling the saline in the air from the man's tears that had yet to fall. Erlang gave the lead just a subtle shift in his hand, felt by Quan at his side, which managed to quiet the beast--at least a little, his tail still still clearly swishing behind him.

However, there was still a notable beat--or several beats--of silence after hearing that whispered word; he had been recognized, at least, that was reassuring...and In-soo didn't immediately lash out at him, that was also good; but then, they were also in a somewhat public space, weren't they? Had to keep appearances.

Finally, he spoke, maintaining his distance. "You look...well..." Even if that...beanie...did seem a little odd.

one + two

In-Soo loved, adored even, his job but he loved his days off too. And that day wasn't different. He slept in, had a nice brunch with Juyeon and was now enjoying a walk in the park. It was cold but the sky was blue and clear, the air dry and crisp. 

He was wandering through the park's alleys, enjoying the different ice and snow sculptures, smiling as he watched people skate. It smelled of hot chocolate and fresh waffles and churros. In-Soo felt good, truly good, which hadn't happened in months.

The Chinese demigod had stopped in front of one of the statues, Yggdrasil as Juyeon had explained, admiring the intricate and delicate details when he felt something new, something he had never experienced before. It wasn't bad, on the contrary, a warm and strong spiritual energy settling into his core.

An energy that reminded him of his own, except way bigger, way more powerful.

In-Soo looked up, noticing the huge black dog first, feeling safe as he met the animal's eyes, the beast seemingly excited to see him too. Then his gaze moved to the man on the other side of the leash and it was like air was taken away from his lungs, like his whole body was frozen in place, the name he was called resonating into his ears.

The man from the pictures, the man who had looked so happy, hugging his mother, holding him so gently. Erlang Shen.

"Father" he whispered, the salt of tears prickling his eyes.

[erlangmp]

Shades of Justice

Closed starter for a kindred spirit @mpyanluo

Upon arriving at the island, his very first order of business had been reconnecting with his son and, now that this important task had been accomplished, he had several other important tasks to undertake. New dwelling, new job, and instill ORDER on this island. Of the latter, there was one matter of island security he knew he had to investigate, an immediate level of concern, and that task would begin soon enough.

He had just finished carrying in the last trunk of his things and setting them inside the apartment door--he could unpack later--for now, however, Quan had poked his head out the door upon hearing something in the hall. This, of course, garnered Erlang's attention, particularly when he noticed the massive hound's tail give a slight wag.

Something clearly had the howling celestial dog's attention, and this caused the police chief to pull on his coat and step to the door, taking note of a figure approaching from the other end of the corridor. Quan moved into the hall, pacing between the walls as he kept an eye on the stranger and a small smile came to Erlang's lips as he recognized the figure in the distance.

"Wang Xiansheng," he greeted with a respectful nod.

[erlangmp]

In Deep Water

Closed starter for a the kind colleague with coffee @mpxangela

First order of official business came shortly after his arrival to the island. He had barely settled in to his apartment, let alone his new role as chief of police when one of his colleagues muttered about having to make coffee actually in the legit coffee pot at work as opposed to going to their favorite shop downtown owned and operated by one of their own. And why was that? Something about every sink and toilet being...broken? Sounded very suspicious. Something that the police--and an engineer--should investigate. To ensure there had been no foul play and also that everything was structurally sound; having a complete disentigration of the plumbing between buildings because of an imbalance in the pipes might cause more issues with the infrastructure. Not that the city needed a huge sink hole downtown...

So he set off to the Flower Mill, first speaking with the surrounding businesses to determine their own plumbing was working properly--and to discuss whether or not they had seen or heard anything suspicious on the day the coffee shop had its unfortunate event--but then eventually ended up at the shop in question. He stood at the door, noting the signs, but seeing movement inside. With Quan in tow on his lead, the massive hound's head reaching near to his shoulder and sniffing at the air as Erlang Shen knocked on the door, badge glinting in the sunlight, the uniform a clear indication that this was not a social call.

[erlangmp]

Family Reunion

Closed starter for the apple of his eye @mpinsoo

Before officially accepting any position on the council, before meeting his aunt for welcoming tea, before introducing himself to those in the police department, even before he had moved into his assigned apartment, Erlang Shen had one thing he needed to do. It was his first order of business, the strongest of all fires burning within his heart.

Erlang Shen might have blended in with the majority of the crowd--just a tall and well built man in a black overcoat and boots, but that PRESENCE--oh, the presence was what gave him away; a strong and undeniable aura that radiated from him, an epicenter, the eye of a storm, a safe space, a divine point that appeared to repel evil energies and make those with evil intent all the more nervous to be near. But though he did seek someone, he was not there to apprehend any criminals or question any suspicious individuals. No, he was on a different mission.

The moment he set foot in the park, he knew, could feel it. And Quan could sense it, too--could smell it. Immediately, the large black hound perked at his master's side, tail wagging slightly as he sniffed the air, a soft but excited whine accompanied a lightly more vigorous wag of the canine's tail, but he did not pull on the lead, oh no, however this did alert Erlang Shen to the young veterinarian in the distance.

Passing by another exquisitely-crafted ice sculpture, he dared to close the distance, the closest to his son than he had been in well over a decade, yet he stopped only two meters away, keeping a firm hold on Quan's lead in his left hand, a soft glint of the gold band on his ring finger. He dared to speak, a name he had not uttered to his boy in far too long, but it was spoken gently, a weight of warmth upon it.

"Soo-ya."

[erlangmp]

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