vulpe-mp

[vulpe-mp]

He's where exactly?!

Vulpe looked at the sent coordinates on his phone screen. Flabbergasted. What did he get himself into? He thought of the post on social media as a joke and he - thought he - participated in funny, albeit flirty banter. Something the vulpine demigod often passed his time with.

But it wasn't a joke. The banter was funny, and slightly flirtacious on his end, but a joke, it was not. The other was truly lost and Vulpe seemed the only one to be willing to drive out there to pick him up. Only, that was a joke, too. Well, it started out as one, because he thought the over wasn't actually lost. But... he was. So this wasn't a joke.

A few years ago, when the Brit was young and stupid and much less responsible (Vulpe? Responsible?), he would've probably - definitely - pawned this responsibility onto someone else.

Vulpe quickly grabbed his keys, wallet and coat and left his apartment. If he was quick, he might be able to make it to the other before sundown. And with what he had read on the thread, that was imperative.

To the dancer's luck, he had put a full tank of petrol in his Porsche yesterday, so he was good on that front. He made a quick stop at the grocery store to grab sandwiches, snacks, water, and a few sodas for good measure.

Vulpe drove, over speed limit, but still as careful as possible, keeping his head cool in this stressful situation.

No, really, who was this man in the driver's seat of Vulpe's car? Stressing over a stranger?

A little over five hours later, the sun began to set. Not a problem for a demigod with the eyesight of a fox, but he did begin to worry the other might've wandered off, or was taken or--

Nevermind.

For miles, there were no cars to be seen and people walking in these parts of the island - that's why it's called the middle of nowhere - was a rarity also. So someone sitting by the side of the road stuck out like a sore thumb.

Vulpe sighed in relief and flashed his headlights a few times and beeped his horn once. Rolling down the window, he called out the first thing that came to mind;

"Get in loser, we're going home!"

Lost and Found

a starter based on a SNS interaction for the savior @vulpe-mp

There were times throughout his journey, when Alexander completely forgot where he was headed in the first place. But at this point, this kind of question wouldn’t have a chance to settle in his mind when the answer was so clear. All he wanted to do was to get home. 

That was the challenge, though, wasn’t it? Getting home. 

In addition to being completely lost in the middle of nowhere with no civilization in sight, he only saw three cars pass by within the last hour. And all of them seemed to be headed in the direction he wanted to get away from. Not that either of them showed any intentions to pick him up or even stop to talk to him. 

He tilted his head back, allowing warm rays of sun to hit his face. It was deceptively chilly outside, and he was grateful for the good sense of his past self to put on a warmer jacket before his journey started. If only that very same past self would’ve put in just as much effort into planning his trip as he put into laying out an outfit. Maybe then he wouldn’t have gotten himself into this mess. 

A deep sigh raised his shoulders slightly when he finally looked back at the road, making sure to look both sides just in case he could see another vehicle approaching. If anyone came by, Alexander would get up from his seated position on the ground to not only get a better look but also ensure he’d be seen. He certainly didn’t want to get overlooked from where he was positioned. But unfortunately for him, there was no need for him to stand. Instead, he sat with his arms resting on top of his propped up legs; mentally forcing himself to stay put. 

After all, he had clear instructions to not move an inch. And although he wasn’t a fan of rules and order, this particular occasion warranted every ounce of his discipline to pull through. Truly a grueling task for someone whose idea of relaxation would be a workout routine of his choice and a general quota of interacting with at least seven different people, or alternatively a get-together. 

When he felt the familiar buzz of his phone go off, however, his whole demeanor changed. Despite nobody being around to see him do it, Alexander’s back immediately straightened, and it was as if his entire body was on edge. 

The enthusiasm and hope of any kind of distraction made him suddenly feel alert and energized. However, when he unlocked his phone to find no notification other than the system telling him that the battery was low, it was as if his chest deflated and the weight of monotony came crushing down on him. 

“Fuck me.” A curse whispered into the wind for nobody to hear when he tried to spot any sign of life coming his way. He wasn’t sure how long he’d been waiting when a minute felt like an hour and an hour felt like an eternity, but all he could think of right now was Vulpe, his savior, coming to pick him up. Alexander just hoped he’d come sooner rather than later.

[vulpe-mp]

When the door swung open and he saw Huacheng's flushed face and awkward smile, Vulpe's worry deepened. It was clear that something had happened.

"Hey, Huli," Vulpe greeted, stepping inside cautiously. His eyes flickered over his friend's face, noting the slight blush and the way he seemed to be favoring one leg. "Are you okay? You seem a bit... flustered. Your leg... what happened?"

He hesitated for a moment, unsure if he should press for more information. But seeing the genuine smile on Huacheng's face, Vulpe decided to let it go for now. If his friend wanted to talk about it, he would.

"Let me... help you back in," the Vulpine demigod offered his arm to help the younger. "I brought food."

Xiannu & Huli

-for the sweet and sassy fox @vulpe-mp

He had been so distressed after the accident, unable to really do much of anything thinking if anyone saw him this way they would find him use less and not want him around. Though that wasn't how the people he has met are the underlining trauma of what his parents inflicted, adding to the mental trauma of being subjected to the things they put him through so he would be perfect in their eyes. Huachang was stuck thinking that way. That without the ability to fulfill something he was not worthy.

The light of his phone flashed as the charge fed it life, a device he rarely used and only recently was given to him. Where he grew up technology was not around being told it was to mind numbing for their regal society so the introduction to it was like whiplash. Huachang waited for the device to come to life jumping at the way it suddenly started tp seize at the amount of messages he was receiving. One chime after the other the demigod stared until it stopped finally reaching for it with a cautious hand. Sliding it open since there was no lock it surprised him to see someone had worried about him. Hua hadn't let the phone charge after it died thinking no one would notice his absence but here, Vulpe, the one he had met under the tree in his past time of distress was. The texts went from casual hellos, to worried questions, asking where he was to all caps saying he better be okay, Huachang felt a ping of guilt in his chest and messaged back quickly no longer wanted them to wait.

Text > Huli Hello, I did not receive these messages as my phone was dead. I am so sorry I worried you so much... I didn't think anyone would notice I was gone since I am currently not useful to the world.

[vulpe-mp]

Guidance from the Underworld

with @mpxarawn

Vulpe had developed a strong bond with Arawn over time. You could say they were friends. Friends who spoke about many topics. About life in the present, day to day chitter chatter. About goals and dreams for the future. Even the past was a topic of conversation every now and then. About London, both then - centuries ago - and now.

But some things remained unspoken. Not secrets, trauma. Pain the demigod carried every single day, though he never showed an ounce of it. And he was never going to.

But he did wonder sometimes...

The dancer knew his friend could help in a way with the doubts that plagued his mind. And today, he was going to ask.

Vulpe walked into the Flower Mill, where he knew Arawn was often, and scanned the room. And just as expected, there he was, with a cup and cake in front of him. The Japanese demigod took a deep breath, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination as he approached his friend.

"Mind if I join you?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe chuckled softly at Inari's response, appreciating the playful banter between them. "Oh, you know, just a few acquaintances here and there," he replied with a grin, intentionally keeping the details vague.

As Inari spoke about the challenges of being a fox and finding acceptance, Vulpe nodded in understanding. "It's been a journey, for sure. But I'm lucky to have found some good friends along the way," he said, a note of gratitude in his voice.

"I should probably try to build a relationship with my siblings as well..." the demigod admitted shamefully. He took the menu from his parent and scanned it.

家族 | inari + vulpe

bonding time with little kit @vulpe-mp

They were trying, Inari knew. But they supposed they could try harder. While the fox diety enjoyed the land of the mortals as well as all its little quirks, getting to know ones children---that was another matter entirely.

Since coming to the island, Inari had tried their best to reconnect with her children. Thankfully, their reception to their presence was not as bad as they anticipated. In fact, they were far nicer than Inari gave credit for--and the deity was grateful for that.

So they were trying harder. While Yeji had gone to Seoul, Ayden didn't want much to do with her, after knowing the truth about their father. Inari would face that sooner later, but thankfully, there was another kit that Inari could try to connect with more.

Vulpe was kind enough to share coffee and tea dates with Inari after that time at the blizzard. While of course Inari shouldn't have favorites, Vulpe struck them as somebody who are akin to them that her other kits.

Today was one of those dates, a lunch one, as Inari thought it was high time they actually shared a meal.

"Hello little kit," Inari was all smiles as Vulpe appeared. "Don't you look gorgeous today?"

[vulpe-mp]

"The ocean is calm," Vulpe agreed, absent-mindedly, thinking of all the times he and his love spent there. The memories felt so real, the demigod could almost hear the waves crash on the shore and the seagulls flying over head. Almost.

His thoughts were interrupted by the question the other asked; what do you mean, save him...

What did Vulpe mean? Oliver was robbed, or so they say. What was the scrawny ballet dancer to do? Fight? Everyone would know they would've both lost. Calling 999 would've been the safest bet, but that didn't mean that was guaranteed to safe his beloved's life.

Vulpe sighed.

"I don't know," the man admitted. "Maybe things would've ended differently if I were with him... that night."

"here," sungjin whispered and passed him a small, travel-sized packet of tissues. he carried them on his person mostly for himself, but it wasn't rare that situations like this happened too. having a moment for himself, sung processed what the other had just said. how interesting it was to be a doppelganger to someone who isn't around anymore. he considered how it might have felt to have a clone of heoksang walking around and then he could envision such a heartache.

"well, regardless of what happened, there will always be parts of your fiance that exist within you. that, fortunately or unfortunately, is how relationships work. is it so heartbreaking to see me because it's a reminder of how they're gone?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe listened intently as Prince shared his recent experiences, his curiosity piqued by the mention of a half brother. He leaned forward slightly, his ears perking up with interest.

"A half brother?" Vulpe asked curiously. "How did the meeting go? Is he cool?"

He took a sip of his Manhattan, letting the strong, bitter taste wash over his palate as he waited for Prince to elaborate. There was something intriguing about uncovering family secrets and forging new connections, and Vulpe was eager to hear more about this development in Prince's life.

"I have a brother and sister. Twins. And I met my... Parent. Inari. They're fun to hang around, I suppose."

The vulpine demigod thought for a moment what else was worth mentioning. There were no other significant people in his life now. All the dancer had was...

"Oh! And working my dream job! I teach ballet!" Vulpe titled his head and frowned a bit, wondering how that had slipped his mind. It had always been his dream job. Did that change? Or was he just tired?

A lot had changed in this year, but the vulpine demigod attributed his forgetfulness to being overworked instead. He had no time or energy to rethink his career choices.

Vulpe found himself appreciating the sentiment of Prince's words. It was a simple acknowledgment, yet it held a depth that resonated with him. The acceptance and support were like a lifeline, and he felt grateful for it.

But the demigod dropped it. Not wanting to dwell on this topic any longer than they already had. Too long, in his opinion.

"Hm... Concistency is key, right?" the vulpine demigod teased back, enjoying the banter between them. It felt good, familiar. As if they had never been separated.

The dancer excused himself for just a moment to get them both a drink - a mojito for the younger and a Manhattan for himself. He returned shortly after, placing the minty drink in front of his friend.

"So. What have you been up to lately?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe couldn't help but smile at Inari's teasing and warm words. It was a stark contrast from the relationships he had known before, and he appreciated the genuine connection that was forming between them.

"I've been doing well, thank you," Vulpe replied, returning the smile. "Life on the island has been treating me kindly. I've been exploring new places, meeting interesting people, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Especially the beach! It's been quite therapeutic, actually."

This wasn't all true. Yes, he had met a bunch of new people, explored a ton of places, but the demigod sometimes had a hard time fitting in. Was it the language barrier? His upbringing? The dancer didn't know for certain, but he didn't wish to dwell too long on the negatives. He quickly shook it off and leaned in a bit.

"How about you? What have you been up to?"

家族 | inari + vulpe

bonding time with little kit @vulpe-mp

They were trying, Inari knew. But they supposed they could try harder. While the fox diety enjoyed the land of the mortals as well as all its little quirks, getting to know ones children---that was another matter entirely.

Since coming to the island, Inari had tried their best to reconnect with her children. Thankfully, their reception to their presence was not as bad as they anticipated. In fact, they were far nicer than Inari gave credit for--and the deity was grateful for that.

So they were trying harder. While Yeji had gone to Seoul, Ayden didn't want much to do with her, after knowing the truth about their father. Inari would face that sooner later, but thankfully, there was another kit that Inari could try to connect with more.

Vulpe was kind enough to share coffee and tea dates with Inari after that time at the blizzard. While of course Inari shouldn't have favorites, Vulpe struck them as somebody who are akin to them that her other kits.

Today was one of those dates, a lunch one, as Inari thought it was high time they actually shared a meal.

"Hello little kit," Inari was all smiles as Vulpe appeared. "Don't you look gorgeous today?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe's concern for Huachang was genuine, and his inquiries were driven by a desire to ensure the well-being of the demigod he had met at the Summer Festival the previous year. He cared beyond the notion of utility.

It was a strange way to look at ones worth, but the vulpine demigod could relate to some extent. Vulpe's parents in London made sure to let the young dancer know he had no worth other than to make them look favorable in front of their colleagues and friends. And he almost believed them. But Vulpe took that as fuel to prove them wrong, and now he places his worth on other things in life; his accomplishments and connections he made over the years. Though he hadn't felt like he was worth something for quite some time, he wasn't gonna tell Huachang that.

When Huachang provided his location as home, Vulpe left his apartment and made a mental list of things to get on his way.

Food Magazines Puzzlebook Plushie

And anything else he would come across as he browsed the stores.

Vulpe pulled up, his car full with needs and possible wants for Huachang. And as he walked to the door of his friend's apartment, he hoped the other could at least get to the door to let him in.

Xiannu & Huli

-for the sweet and sassy fox @vulpe-mp

He had been so distressed after the accident, unable to really do much of anything thinking if anyone saw him this way they would find him use less and not want him around. Though that wasn't how the people he has met are the underlining trauma of what his parents inflicted, adding to the mental trauma of being subjected to the things they put him through so he would be perfect in their eyes. Huachang was stuck thinking that way. That without the ability to fulfill something he was not worthy.

The light of his phone flashed as the charge fed it life, a device he rarely used and only recently was given to him. Where he grew up technology was not around being told it was to mind numbing for their regal society so the introduction to it was like whiplash. Huachang waited for the device to come to life jumping at the way it suddenly started tp seize at the amount of messages he was receiving. One chime after the other the demigod stared until it stopped finally reaching for it with a cautious hand. Sliding it open since there was no lock it surprised him to see someone had worried about him. Hua hadn't let the phone charge after it died thinking no one would notice his absence but here, Vulpe, the one he had met under the tree in his past time of distress was. The texts went from casual hellos, to worried questions, asking where he was to all caps saying he better be okay, Huachang felt a ping of guilt in his chest and messaged back quickly no longer wanted them to wait.

Text > Huli Hello, I did not receive these messages as my phone was dead. I am so sorry I worried you so much... I didn't think anyone would notice I was gone since I am currently not useful to the world.

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe's phone buzzed. Another message from Huachang. The vulpine demigod read the message, over and over. His eyes narrowing more and more, the more he read. It was confusing, as if the words put together didn't make sense in the order they were in. What was the younger demi trying to say? Useless? Pathetic? What was the younger man on about?

Aside the message being nonsensical in its sentiment, it was most of all concerning. Deeply so. Vulpe was heartbroken learning the other had been struggling without anyone being able to help - though it seemed like the fellow dancer didn't really accept help even if offered.

Before even replying to the message, the Japanese demigod got his coat, wallet, and keys and left the apartment.

>> Xiannu Where are you now?

Xiannu & Huli

-for the sweet and sassy fox @vulpe-mp

He had been so distressed after the accident, unable to really do much of anything thinking if anyone saw him this way they would find him use less and not want him around. Though that wasn't how the people he has met are the underlining trauma of what his parents inflicted, adding to the mental trauma of being subjected to the things they put him through so he would be perfect in their eyes. Huachang was stuck thinking that way. That without the ability to fulfill something he was not worthy.

The light of his phone flashed as the charge fed it life, a device he rarely used and only recently was given to him. Where he grew up technology was not around being told it was to mind numbing for their regal society so the introduction to it was like whiplash. Huachang waited for the device to come to life jumping at the way it suddenly started tp seize at the amount of messages he was receiving. One chime after the other the demigod stared until it stopped finally reaching for it with a cautious hand. Sliding it open since there was no lock it surprised him to see someone had worried about him. Hua hadn't let the phone charge after it died thinking no one would notice his absence but here, Vulpe, the one he had met under the tree in his past time of distress was. The texts went from casual hellos, to worried questions, asking where he was to all caps saying he better be okay, Huachang felt a ping of guilt in his chest and messaged back quickly no longer wanted them to wait.

Text > Huli Hello, I did not receive these messages as my phone was dead. I am so sorry I worried you so much... I didn't think anyone would notice I was gone since I am currently not useful to the world.

[vulpe-mp]

They've come a long way, Inari and him. When Vulpe first met his parent, he was hesitant, as all the parental figure in his life up to that point had failed him.

The deity was very different from his adoptive parents, though, and over time, especially after Inari had helped him during a difficult time, Vulpe warmed up to the idea they were family.

The demigod smiled warmly as he approached Inari. The deity's presence had become a welcomed part in his life, and these interactions had helped bridge the gap that had existed for a long time.

"I'm an adult, y'know," Vulpe teased, though he did not mind the nickname. "Don't I look gorgeous every day?"

家族 | inari + vulpe

bonding time with little kit @vulpe-mp

They were trying, Inari knew. But they supposed they could try harder. While the fox diety enjoyed the land of the mortals as well as all its little quirks, getting to know ones children---that was another matter entirely.

Since coming to the island, Inari had tried their best to reconnect with her children. Thankfully, their reception to their presence was not as bad as they anticipated. In fact, they were far nicer than Inari gave credit for--and the deity was grateful for that.

So they were trying harder. While Yeji had gone to Seoul, Ayden didn't want much to do with her, after knowing the truth about their father. Inari would face that sooner later, but thankfully, there was another kit that Inari could try to connect with more.

Vulpe was kind enough to share coffee and tea dates with Inari after that time at the blizzard. While of course Inari shouldn't have favorites, Vulpe struck them as somebody who are akin to them that her other kits.

Today was one of those dates, a lunch one, as Inari thought it was high time they actually shared a meal.

"Hello little kit," Inari was all smiles as Vulpe appeared. "Don't you look gorgeous today?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe sat in his apartment, concern etched on his face as he repeatedly checked his phone for any sign of life on Hua's side. The worry had gnawed at him, making it difficult to focus on anything else, though if anyone asked, he'd deny everything. He had sent messages ranging from casual greetings to urgent inquiries, each one carrying a touch of anxiety.

When Huachang's response finally came through, Vulpe felt a mix of relief and concern. He quickly opened the message, absorbing the words on the screen. The other's apology and acknowledgment of not feeling useful struck a chord with the vulpine demi. He understood the weight of such feelings, the burden of not meeting one's expectations.

Vulpe took a moment to gather his thoughts before crafting a thoughtful reply:

>> Xiannu No need to apologize. I'm just relieved to hear from you. Your well-being matters, and your absence didn't go unnoticed. Please know that each person, including you, brings something unique and valuable. If you ever want to talk or share what's on your mind, I'm here for you.

Xiannu & Huli

-for the sweet and sassy fox @vulpe-mp

He had been so distressed after the accident, unable to really do much of anything thinking if anyone saw him this way they would find him use less and not want him around. Though that wasn't how the people he has met are the underlining trauma of what his parents inflicted, adding to the mental trauma of being subjected to the things they put him through so he would be perfect in their eyes. Huachang was stuck thinking that way. That without the ability to fulfill something he was not worthy.

The light of his phone flashed as the charge fed it life, a device he rarely used and only recently was given to him. Where he grew up technology was not around being told it was to mind numbing for their regal society so the introduction to it was like whiplash. Huachang waited for the device to come to life jumping at the way it suddenly started tp seize at the amount of messages he was receiving. One chime after the other the demigod stared until it stopped finally reaching for it with a cautious hand. Sliding it open since there was no lock it surprised him to see someone had worried about him. Hua hadn't let the phone charge after it died thinking no one would notice his absence but here, Vulpe, the one he had met under the tree in his past time of distress was. The texts went from casual hellos, to worried questions, asking where he was to all caps saying he better be okay, Huachang felt a ping of guilt in his chest and messaged back quickly no longer wanted them to wait.

Text > Huli Hello, I did not receive these messages as my phone was dead. I am so sorry I worried you so much... I didn't think anyone would notice I was gone since I am currently not useful to the world.

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe appreciated Sungjin's sincerity, feeling the weight of his words. He took a deep breath, considering the offer to share about their fiancé. Opening up was never easy, but maybe it was time to confront those emotions. "His name was Oliver. He was kind, patient, and had this way of making me feel understood, even when I couldn't find the words. We shared dreams, fears, and plans for the future," Vulpe began, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

"He loved the ocean, the way waves echoed life's rhythm. Sometimes we'd just sit by the shore, listening. He had a laugh that could light up the darkest moments. But then... he was gone. And I never got to say everything I wanted to say." The demigod's gaze dropped to the grass beneath them, fingers tracing patterns on in the blades.

"I wish I could've told him that I loved him more, that I appreciated every little thing about him. That he made my life richer, brighter. And... I wish I could've saved him," he admitted, a tinge of regret in his eyes.

"here," sungjin whispered and passed him a small, travel-sized packet of tissues. he carried them on his person mostly for himself, but it wasn't rare that situations like this happened too. having a moment for himself, sung processed what the other had just said. how interesting it was to be a doppelganger to someone who isn't around anymore. he considered how it might have felt to have a clone of heoksang walking around and then he could envision such a heartache.

"well, regardless of what happened, there will always be parts of your fiance that exist within you. that, fortunately or unfortunately, is how relationships work. is it so heartbreaking to see me because it's a reminder of how they're gone?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe stepped into Yura's workshop, the familiar sights and sounds enveloping him. The soft whirring of sewing machines were like a comforting embrace. Yura's creative haven always fascinated him, a place where imagination met craftsmanship.

"Yura, my favorite sorceress of threads and needles," he greeted with a playful smile. He leaned against the counter, eyes glinting mischievously. "You know me well. I'm here for your magical touch again. Got a special request this time."

He pulled out a rough sketch from his pocket, a design that blended elegance with a hint of daring. "Think you can turn this into something bewitching?"

Kami Sama ||

@vulpe-mp

Yura could be considered a sort of magician when it came to the thread and cloth business. She had taken the high pain tolerance, the skills of tattooing and art and took it to a whole different level. She prided herself on her skills and her hand embroidery and she had a constant client in Vulpe. They had become close when he was looking for someone to design a slutty version of the Black Swan. She had done the costume in lace and and black sequins and rhinestones. It had been a sight to behold. Tasteful, set seductive. So of course, she had become almost a constant for Vulpe.

Hearing the door to the shop open, the young woman didn't even look up from the coat she'd been working on for Arawn. The God had placed a personal order. She didn't even have to look up to see who entered because of Vulpe's familiar shoes clacking on the floor. "What brings you here, Vulpe? Another slutty costume to woo your admirers?" she asked, finally looking up from the delicate beadwork.

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe found himself appreciating the sentiment of Prince's words. It was a simple acknowledgment, yet it held a depth that resonated with him. The acceptance and support were like a lifeline, and he felt grateful for it.

But the demigod dropped it. Not wanting to dwell on this topic any longer than they already had. Too long, in his opinion.

"Hm... Concistency is key, right?" the vulpine demigod teased back, enjoying the banter between them. It felt good, familiar. As if they had never been separated.

The dancer excused himself for just a moment to get them both a drink - a mojito for the younger and a Manhattan for himself. He returned shortly after, placing the minty drink in front of his friend.

"So. What have you been up to lately?"

Vulpe's posture relaxed finally, not realizing he was being tense in the first place. The younger demigod's words had struck a chord, a raw nerve that he had been avoiding. The fact that Prince was there, willing to listen and support him, felt like a lifeline in the sea of emotions he was drowning in.

"Thanks," Vulpe mumbled, a faint smile playing on his lips. He appreciated the gesture, even if he wasn't entirely ready to open up about the storm inside him.

A short silence fell between them. The vulpine demigod just had to sort his thoughts and feelings out for a second, before turning to his usual pretend-cheerful self.

"Mojito?" he asked finally as he grabbed his wallet. "Or have some things changed? It seems like your habits haven't, Vulpe teased with a kind smile.

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe accepted the bag with a grateful nod, peering inside to acknowledge the contents. "Thanks. I appreciate it." He pulled out the water and took a few sips, feeling the cool liquid soothe his parched throat. The medicine would likely help alleviate the lingering effects of the alcohol.

The phone felt foreign in his hands as he took it back from Juyeon. He appreciated the other dancer's assistance and glanced at the sent message. "Thanks for doing that. I should get going soon," he replied, the weight of his actions from the previous night still lingering in his mind.

At the question about the previous night, the vulpine demigod hesitated for a moment before sighing. "Just... personal stuff. Had a lot on my mind, I guess. But it's nothing you need to worry about." He offered a small, strained smile. Opening up about his personal troubles wasn't something he did easily, especially with someone he worked with. The dancer used to be really good at hiding his struggles, perfectly seperating his daytime job and his nighttime shenanigans. But slowly but surely, the mask began to crack the last couple of months.

Some things that needed addressing weren't addressed, and Vulpe wanted to keep it that way.

Feeling a bit disoriented and groggy, Vulpe's eyes slowly adjusted to the surroundings as he woke up. He couldn't find his phone at first. Slowly sitting up, he realized it must've slipped out of the dancer's pocket as he slept, as it lay on the floor next to the couch. As he reached for his phone with a groan, he noticed Juyeon at his desk, seemingly engrossed in some plans. It took a moment for Vulpe to fully register the situation.

"Oh, hey," he mumbled, his voice a bit rough from sleep. Rubbing his temples, he sat up and looked around. "How long was I out?"

Vulpe tried to shake off the remnants of his sleep and the effects of the hangover. He unlocked his phone, regretting it instantly as the display light seemed brighter than the fucking sun. He struggled to unlock it fully as the numbers on the screen were dancing around.

"Could you do me a favor?" the vulpine demigod asked quietly, stretching his arm out to give the other his phone. "Twenty-six, O six... Could you text Lio I'm not coming in? Please?"

[vulpe-mp]

The ballerino's playful demeanor intensified, and he approached Yanluo with a confident grace. "Looking for a dance partner, huh?" he responded, his tone teasing. "Well, aren't you in luck? I'm a teacher, always looking for a partner myself." He gestured toward the mirrored studio. "Follow me, and we'll see if you've got what it takes."

Leading the man into the studio, the demigod took a moment to observe the god's posture and movements. "So, you've had some ballet training, hm? We'll start with the basics and see where you stand." He moved to a position at the barre, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "You can call me Vulpe, by the way. Now, let's have some fun, shall we?"

The young demigod at the barre had been immersed in his routine, the rhythmic dance of ballet steps echoing in the studio. The reflection in the mirrors allowed him to scrutinize his form, each movement deliberate and graceful. He was lost in his world of pliés and tendus, the strains of classical music enveloping him.

And yet, he saw him.

Tall, slender and majestic. Regal, even. Hot.

A smirk painted Vulpe's face, as he exaggerated his movements. The dancer loved to be watched, he loved the attention; so he might as well give him a show.

The vulpine demigod paused mid-pose, his body freezing for a moment as the sound of a throat clearing reached his ears. Slowly turning his head, he was met with the sight of the handsome stranger leaning against the door frame with an expression that bordered between amusement and curiosity.

His chest rose and fell with a controlled breath as he spoke. "I didn't realize I had an audience," he lied, a hint of playfulness in his voice, "Enjoying the show?"

The Brit stretched a bit, elongating his limbs almost dramatically, showing off his assets, before he spoke again. "What can I help you with?"

[vulpe-mp]

Vulpe couldn't help but chuckle at Arawn's eagerness in which he finished his wine, even before Vulpe had the opportunity to toast. The Japanese demigod could already see that the two were similar in some ways, and he was intrigued by where this unusual friendship might take them.

"Nature often takes precedence, indeed," Vulpe mused, thinking about his own struggles with identity and familial expectations. "And I suppose we find our own ways to navigate those paths, even if it means forging a chaotic one." The Brit appreciated the God's insights and the shared understanding of family dynamics.

The vulpine clinked his glass with Arawn's, finishing his drink just as quickly as the god just did. "I'll keep that offer in mind, Arawn. If the need for chaos ever arises, I know where to find you."

The tension Vulpe had felt at the beginning of this encounter - his own anxieties and need to be liked, mostly - subsided. The young demigod felt at ease with his new found friend, sharing stories about modern day London, and the history of the city he once called his domain. His home.

An evening filled with nostalgia and poetic musings. Without touching the subject that alienated the demi from his former home.

Oliver...

════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ End ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════

Arawn laughed. “Yes, in my long long age of life, I’ve amassed a collection of stories and weapons and there are quite a number that come with a history. I passed on the bidding war because of that. As much as I’d like a custom made Hephaestus weapon, there’s no room in my collection,” he stated, sipping on his wine. 

He offered the other a secret smile. “Of course you did. Often battles with me dont end well. It’s a good thing that we were only in a bidding war and not an actual war,” he added. As Vulpe spoke about his resemblance to Inari, Arawn listened patiently. “Well, please take it from me and my brief run ins with Inari, you are quite similar to them. I honestly would have never pegged you though for not having their influence in your life. Often, what I see, is that while we try to avoid the family predetermined paths of what we’re supposed to be, there’s always a way that it comes back to that. In death, or in my experience in death, nature often takes precedence,” he stated,  going into casual professor mode. 

The God shook his head. “But it sounds like Oliver seemed to be of a similar opinion to me. Admirable,” he stated. He decided not to pry further. If there was an issue, then the vulpine demigod can always come to him and ask him directly in the privacy of closed doors of his office, where the walls had all the secrets. 

The God almost finished his glass of wine when Vulpe decided to toast to their new friendship. He raised the remnants of his glass and grinned. “Truly, to a good chaotic friendship. If you ever need some chaos, my office doors are always open,” he said, laughing. “Especially to a fellow Brit,” he added.