⚝ park。

@tyler y。ᵇᵃᵏᶦⁿᵍᵖᵒʷᵈᵉʳ @kristine f。ᵐᵒᵒⁿᵈʳᵒᵖ When it become apparent that Kristine had seemingly located the other male, Felix nods quickly and ushers her off with a smile. "I'll be right here, don't even worry about it! I'll try to sneak over without letting anyone see me." A playful wink and he was left alone though only for a short time hopefully. The angel took a meek glance around just to make sure no one was looking his way before making an attempt to climb over the divider with as much grace as he could manage. Felix does end up tripping a little, rubbing his knee with a small 'ow', before recovering quickly. He spots Kristine and Tyler amongst the crowd and his whole demeanor visibly brightened; freckled cheeks bunch up with an happy grin, eyes twinkle with excitement. No one seemed to notice him almost face-planting trying to get over the divider nor did they seem to notice him sneaking further in to greet his friends. "You found him! Hi Tyler!" The angel was all smiles, all bubbling happiness and joy.

@kristine f。ᵐᵒᵒⁿᵈʳᵒᵖ @felix l。ˢᵖʳᵉᵃᵈᵐʸʷᶦⁿᵍˢ The second his eyes left the bright screen of his phone, it took a second for his eyes to readjust, the haze clearing into a familiar figure. The worry dissipated from his face immediately, replaced by a wide smile that almost felt foreign to his muscles. He put away the phone quickly, ready to greet Kristine, ask about the whereabouts of Felix. "I actual-" but before he could get a word in, the other managed to fill him in pretty quickly. "Uuuuu, fun! Let's get him in," he exclaimed excitedly, quickly following Kristine to wherever the angel was sort of mildly breaking the law.

@tyler y。ᵇᵃᵏᶦⁿᵍᵖᵒʷᵈᵉʳ @felix l。ˢᵖʳᵉᵃᵈᵐʸʷᶦⁿᵍˢ "The line consumed me before I thought about waiting for you two." Kristine quipped over the loud voices of other people and the festival music. The mention of Tyler had her eyes widen with concern. "Um, no I haven't seen him. I don't think I saw him in the line either when I spotted you. He might be inside already." Kristine wondered as she turned her head to look around for anyone who looked like the fellow from the app. Out of the sea of people she was able to spot someone anxiously looking around with a shadow of doubt over their expression. "I think that's him." Kristine said uncertain about her observation. She turned back to the angel, her wide smile coming back in view. "Climb over, no one will see you. But wait here I think I see him." Kristine instructed to the shorter one before she traveled over to the figure she thought was Tyler. Her suspicion was confirmed once the stranger looked up from his phone. Familiar round eyes and brown parted hair that went along with the look she saw in his profile picture. "Hey, Tyler! We were looking for you, and I'm trying to sneak Felix in." Kristine pointed to where the angel was by the admissions tent.

@tyler y。ᵇᵃᵏᶦⁿᵍᵖᵒʷᵈᵉʳ @kristine f。ᵐᵒᵒⁿᵈʳᵒᵖ ( idk how but i managed to tag myself the first time- )

Was the fair going to be as fun as everyone claims it would be? Hopefully. The days have been a bit exhausting lately - Felix could use a good little pick-me-up and hopes that spending time with his friends at a scene like this would help. He's been standing in line for a few moments now. It's been moving rather slow but that's quite alright, he had all the patience in the world right now. Just as it was getting closer to being his turn, there was a shout and Felix immediately turns his head at the noise of his name being called, blue eyes wide as they searched the sea of faces before finally spotting a familiar one. Instantly, a smile spread across his visage at the sight of Kristine and quickly jogs over in her direction. "Hey! You got in already?" He was practically overflowing with excitement right now. "Have you seen Tyler yet or no?"

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@kristine f。ᵐᵒᵒⁿᵈʳᵒᵖ @felix l。ˢᵖʳᵉᵃᵈᵐʸʷᶦⁿᵍˢ He could only thank the connections he's got from being a baker, and actually being nice to the costumers, that he got in as quickly as he did. When the admissions person spotted him, they indulged in a quick chat about the goods and Tyler's father, and by the end of the conversation, Tyler got a free stamp and was able to cut in line, straight inside the fair. He wasn't really proud of it, but he wasn't going to complain either. With a big sigh, he looked around, familiar faces all around, though no one he was on talking terms with was in sight. Twisting his lips suddenly insecurely, he pushed his hands into his pockets, fishing out his phone with one hand to look at the app, hoping that the deal was still on and his friends would show up sooner or later.

@tyler y。ᵇᵃᵏᶦⁿᵍᵖᵒʷᵈᵉʳ @felix l。ˢᵖʳᵉᵃᵈᵐʸʷᶦⁿᵍˢ Kristine had never made it anywhere faster than she did today, once it was decided that it would be a crowd of three instead of just herself. She was already pushed inside the fair after the admission person quickly took her money and stamped her hand that left a smudge of purple and glitter all over. From behind the admission tents, Kristine looked at the line with eager eyes for anyone who seemed familiar from the app until she was able to spot the fluff of blond hair. "Felix." She said to herself, her smile growing as she walked over to the metal bars separating her from the ones who hadn't paid yet. "Felix, over here!" Kristin yelled with her hands cupping the sides of . "Come this way, you can squeeze in!" She yelled as she pointed the fence with sizeable bars that even she could fit through. Maybe she should have did that.

( i wasn't sure so imma post this as an open starter ;;;;;;;; )

After hearing that there was a fair going on, Felix got rid of any plans of relaxing and got right back up off the couch to change into a better pair of clothing. He wanted to see what kinds of things were at the fair since he's missed the others in the past. It would essentially be the little angel's first time tasting all those foods and trying all those games and - if what he was told was true - check out the little rides that would sometimes be available. Felix had arrived at the park after a short trek through town though he doesn't quite know where to go or what to do. There's a ticket booth in front of him with a short line of people waiting, happily conversing amongst each other, and it seems like he needs the ticket since everybody seems to be gravitating toward the area. So Felix quickly joins the line and looks around to try to spot anyone familiar.

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "some of those people who wish for eternal youth and immortality do so for selfish reasons. others do it so they can spend as much time as possible with friends and loved ones. you are obviously among the ones with good, genuine intentions. i promise that you will not lose me. and i am sure your other friends would do their best to promise that, too. there is one thing for certain, though - you will never be without friends. with a personality and heart like yours, i cannot imagine any sane person who would turn down a friendship with you." he said matter-of-factly as if that point wasn't able to be debated at all. "i did not have one either. at least, not that i know of. but monsieur and vivi are going to be overjoyed that they have you as an uncle. i...cannot tell you that you cannot spoil them, but just know that the pups will only develop more of an attitude if you spoil them further." the thought of his dogs becoming sassier than usual nearly had a shiver running up sehun's spine. sometimes, it was difficult being outnumbered by monsieur and vivi. they were too clever for their own good. "even if he was not your dad by blood, i have no doubt that you two were very close. just from what you have told me, you were closer to him than i was with my biological father. not that i am upset with that or anything, because i had no desire to have a father-son relationship with my dad, but i guess it also proves that not all blood bonds are the strongest, hm? you and your dad showed that the bond does not have to be blood-related." sehun followed his friend's gaze over to where the couples were trying to wrangle their children up to go home for the day. despite the kids being stubborn, the parents seemed to work well as a team. "i...no. being destined for another is a concept i cannot wrap my head around. i do, however, agree that it would be both frightening and enticing...or at least, the idea of it." leave it to his friend to say such a thing that would end up drawing an amused snort from the wendigo. the expression hyunjin was wearing wasn't helping, either. "it sounds like that is what i am saying. and, of course - you are more than your wishes, hyunjin. you always have been. no one should be making you feel otherwise."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ "Mm. I lived a long life. Or multiple ones, or whatever you wamt to call it. I think I consider myself semi-immortal, hah... now that I know you... and my other friends, I feel like those people in my past who wished for immortality were foolish. Wanting to be rich, famous, forever young and stuff... I never thought that was right, but... if I imagine losing you, I don't... I... I don't want to live without friends," the imp was playing with his fingers while he spoke, absent-minded as always, though those words were the most heartfelt and truthful. The true essence of his feelings. "I've never had a fun uncle. But I wouldn't say no to being one," he beamed up at the nurse, owning the title as if it was made just for him. "Does that mean I can spoil them more than they already are?" He teased with a playful grin. "Yeah, parental bonds are strong. From what I have observed. I can't say I had one with my dad, because I wasn't truly his child, and I could probably be his great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-grandfather, give or take few greats. But we had something more than a mentorship but less than blood bond. I don't think I can explain, hah," the scratching at the back if his head that followed the escaped laughter was ever-so telling of his uncertainty. "Mates? Oh! Yes! That's it! Can you imagine being with someone who you are destined for? Wow! Don't really know how it works but I imagine it can be as frightening as it is enticing," Hyunjin's eyes drifted across the park at the parents of the rowdy children, just to match his imagination with a visual reference. Perhaps, they were not mates, but the love part of it truly seemed kind of magical to the imp. "You're definitely not an idiot. I mean, I did get you to laugh and joke once or twice." The boy suddenly grinned widely, mischievously, and sat back with his hands folded behind his head in a smug, proud posture "Are you saying that I'm a good influence?" he wiggled his eyebrows at the wendigo. "Really, though, it makes me happy. Knowing that I have an impact on... something... without wishes. You know, by being myself."

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "well, i suppose it would definitely be something for me to at least consider. maybe weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision. i am not sure what it would be like to go back to living as a human. although, i do not even think i could because it would take away my curse...thus taking away my immortality..." he trailed off, knowing that hyunjin would be able to figure out the rest without him even saying it. as much as sehun resented his past and the monster inside of him, would he really be willing to give up all he's accomplished and the friendships he's made along the way? it didn't sound very logical, nor appealing to the nurse. "ah, so you are not very familiar with the concept of 'fun uncle'. based on what i have heard from patients, there is always one uncle in the family that really stands out from the others. so, i think that would be you if the boys had other uncles to compare you to. if that makes sense?" the wendigo asked with his head cocked slightly to the side. he had been too young to find out if he had a 'fun uncle' or not, but since every family typically did, sehun figured that he did as well. "yes, i would say that the relationship we have between us classifies as best friends. and it is true - parents and children share some of the strongest bonds because they are bonds bound by blood. however...most people do confide in their best friend when they do not feel like they can share certain information with their family members. it is not uncommon to do so." sehun then paused for a brief moment before continuing on. "a possible stronger bond may be like what chanyeol and minseok have? i am not extremely familiar with how mates work before species, but... i imagine that kind of bond is pretty incredibly strong, hm?" finding the person you are fated to be with sounded like a bond that would be difficult to break. "i do not consider myself to be an idiot, that is for sure. but hyunjin, please, do not thank me for such a thing. from what i have experienced so far, having you around has made my life a lot more enjoyable, and, well - lively. i know for a fact that you have made me feel emotions that i have not felt in a very long time. it is a really nice surprise."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ Hyunjin let out a laugh, entertained by the other's joke. It was rare, but that made it so much more precious. The more serious topic though drew a little hum of thoughtfulness out of the imp. Lost in his own mind, he sat forward to lean his elbow against his knee, and rest his chin in his palm. "I get what you mean. I can't imagine losing any of you either. But yeah, there are ways. I mean, maybe a wish could undo it, but I've never worked with a wendigo before, so I don't know what the final effect would be. And also mages could be of help, I think. They used to treat all kinds of things," he finished with a shrug, wondering if he could truly help his friend out of his misery. On the other hand though, if his wish did work on the nurse, it would turn him back into a mortal human, which would mean that, inevitably, they would lose each other. Hyunjin's selfish side was twisting his lips into a pout at the thought. "The fun uncle?" Hyunjin parroted with an entertain scoff. "Sure, I'll be their fun uncle, whatever that means." As it became a habit, he felt understood by the other. He was never truly able to understand his own emotions, not to mention express them. How can one explain something that they don't comprehend themselves? "Mm, I guess so. I feel closer to you than anyone else, really, and from what I know, that should refer to a very close friendship. Which is called best friends, right? I know the strongest bonds a person may feel are with parents and children, but there are reserves, discreet secrets a parent or a child of one doesn't need to know. Yet, when you want to share something in complete secrecy, you run to your best friend, right? I can't imagine a stronger bond," Hyunjin shared his thoughts absent-mindedly, on an impulse, without a care, just as his stream of consciousness functioned. In the back of his mind, though, he knew there was possibly one higher level, but he had heard it was a very rare combination of affections. "I'm glad to know that you're a very brilliant person and not an idiot," the imp remarked, laughing to himself a little. "And what you've just said means a lot to me. I want to thank you for that. Your friendship means a lot to me, too."

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "i have noticed that you and dahyun seem to enjoy drawing different emotions out of me. i am sure it can be amusing, but loveable? that is surprising. mysterious riddles almost makes it sound like i am the sphinx or something with all of her twisted words." he joked as he brushed a few annoying strands of stray hair away from his forehead. "perhaps. however, despite me being a forgivable man, i am not sure i would easily forgive someone who caused any amount of harm to those i care about. and thinking about death...well, that is even worse. i have witnessed lots of deaths in my lifetime, but it would be almost impossible to recover from losing any of the friends i have made here. mm, you mean, there are only a few ways to change what i am?" sehun asked, a curious brow raised high on his forehead. was there even a way to do that? or was dying the only true way? "i think i have the position of 'loyal servant'. they treat me like one, anyway. the third chef? that is true... then, maybe you can be their uncle instead. that 'fun uncle', yeah?" as far as he knew, most people had one of those. do dogs? he wasn't sure. "i do not lie. when it comes to explaining feelings, i do struggle, yes. that is why i typically let my actions show my feelings, rather than my words." sehun absolutely understood hyunjin's mini-fit. he, too, grew frustrated when he couldn't find the proper words or way to express himself. that was something he simply was never good at. "of course, i know you would befriend the entire world because you have such a big heart. you consider me to be a best friend, right? is that what you are referring to when you say you feel closer to me...?" to say sehun was shocked upon hearing how many times the imp had been betrayed was an understatement. then again, people were greedy and cruel and took advantage of the kindest of souls. "i am sorry. they were truly not your friends in that case. friends do not use each other for gain. so, no, i do not want anything in return. your friendship is a wonderful reward in itself. what else could i possibly need? there is no chance i would ever desire to throw you and your friendship away. i would be an idiot for wanting that..."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ "Intimidating, but also intriguing. Pff, to me, your lack of emotion just makes me want to do things that would make you respond emotionally. You know, make you laugh and things like that. And I find it actually loveable in a sense. It's like a riddle or mystery, your emotions," Hyunjin grinned, his eyes squeezed into crescents from the sincerity. The next thing left him deep in thoughts. Maybe he judged the scenario too quickly, because what Sehun said made absolute sense. But for Hyunjin and his weak-for-friendship heart, there was a grey area. "You're right. But if people knew now, everything, especially how you're resisting and fighting it, they'd probably be more understanding. You're not acting up on your instincts, which is a great deal of effort. And what happened, happened. There's only a few ways to change that and they are not that simple," Hyunjin tried to explain his little opinion of the thing. He could never hate the wendigo. Never. And inside, the imp knew that if other people saw through his eyes, they'd understand and accept Sehun as well. He snickered, reaching up to bashfully scratch at the back of his head. "Yeah, I did call them my brothers. But honesty, I could never be. I'd rather be their loyal servant than their equal. That would make me the third chef, you know," he joked this time, but he was still fairly honest. He'd rather be the nurse's equal if anything. "Ah- no! Don't tease me like that," the imp suddenly exclaimed, drowning his voice with his palms as he covered his flushed face. "First of all, that's a lie. You never struggle with big words. And second, it's hard to talk about feelings because I don't know how to define them," he was whining and groaning, throwing a very mild fit. "I'd befriend the whole entire world if I could. But you're... something different. Somehow... I... I feel closer to you than others. I guess it's because I know you the longest and you know me the longest. Like I've been betrayed by "friends" before. Actually on possibly every occasion before my dad got me. Yet I'm not wary. Not of you. You don't seem to want anything in return for letting me be your friend and I'm not actually scared of your throwing me away on the first give opportunity. I don't know," he laughed exhaustedly after explaining, finally dropping his hands from his face, and he slumped. "It's a complex chaos in here sometimes," he scoffed and patted his own head for emphasis.

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "i am simply telling the truth. most people see my lack of emotion as intimidating, not lovable." he replied, giving a few more pats on monsieur's head before letting him back down onto the grass. the pup wasn't too happy, but he settled down on his belly with his chin resting on top of sehun's boot. "you think they would be understanding if one of their friends or family members ended up dead? that is an unforgivable offense." after coming to, sehun had stuck around in an attempt to revive the nearly dismembered body, but his efforts were obviously futile. the last thing he had done was to call an ambulance to ensure that the deceased person would be found before hurrying away from the scene. there would have been no way sehun could have explained what had happened to a human police force. he couldn't even explain things to a supernatural one, either. that guilt would forever stay within him. "i do not wish to tempt that fate, either way." how could he ever want it to come to a point where his friend was so upset he'd cry? that didn't sit right in the pit of sehun's stomach. "good, good. ah, well, i suppose i need to watch what i ask you to do. i try to be reasonable as it is, but now i should be extra careful." that was especially because sehun was well-aware that hyunjin meant what he said wholeheartedly. "if we both see each other as such, then, yes, i would say we are family. i am sure vivi and monsieur are overjoyed to know that. you called them your brothers almost from the start, am i correct?" the three had always seemed to get along since the first time they met, and it warmed the wendigo's heart. "i am not going to tell you how to feel, and you definitely do not need to apologize to me for those feelings. you are important, hyunjin. i would hope i am able to show you that in both my words and actions. nothing about this is selfish, i assure you." as the imp stumbled over his words, sehun sat there patiently, showing no indication of judgment at all. he then reached and landed a gentle pat to the other's thigh, slowly allowing a smile to stretch across his face. "of course, i think of you the same. i did not know that that would be this difficult for you to say, though. usually, i am the one who struggles." he teased.

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ He understood the complicated nature of Sehun's being. Not that he quite comprehended what he meant, but it was apparent that it was not as simple as Hyunjin would like to thing. No matter, though, there needn't be any explanations for it. "You beg to differ? Please, you're too humble," Hyunjin amusedly rolled his eyes. His friend was right, people perceived other differently than themselves, but everything around Sehun only proved that Hyunjin was actually right. "Why not? I thought people in Magnolia would understand more than anyone else," Hyunjin pouted, it was only typical he'd be naive enough to think that. Hyunjin laughed along, feeling giddy for making the stoic man actually show emotion, and a positive one at that. "It takes a lot to make me cry, sir. But I'd like to see you try," Hyunjin gently numbed his shoulder against the other, taunting him childishly. "Now I know, yes, and I don't think that anymore. Hmmm, I don't think I will say no to you," Hyunjin innocently pursed his lips, shaking his head while looking at nothing. The answer was genuine, spontaneous. He didn't need to think about the what ifs. Even if the other wanted to commit some horrible crimes, Hyunjin would be there by his side helping. That was it. Sehun was Hyunjin's person. "So we're officially a family then? You heard it, right? We're related!" Hyunjin started speaking to Vivi midway, picking the pup up to hug him to his face. He was truly, truly happy in spite of the fact what unpleasant information was shared a moment ago. "I'm sorry if I'm too about this. But what am I supposed to be? Angry? Sad? Horrified? I've been to the underworld. Hell. I've been around for a long time. There's not much that can horrifying me. And it just makes me feel important, you know? So I'm happy you told me. I know it's selfish, but like I said, I consider you my closest person, a partner, the best friend. And this... this just... you know... proves that you think of me the same? Uh... or... at least... mm... similar? Ah... you know what I'm trying to say here," Hyunjin laughed embarrassedly after rambling, stumbling over his words as he almost said something he naively didn't understand himself. Something he should probably never say.

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "i - then, yes. if you explain it that way, it would make sense that there are two of me. i guess i just feel almost like we are the same person, even if i do not want to associate myself with him. although, the best way to put it - it's complicated." he uttered with a quiet, humorless laugh. consciously, sehun would never harm another person. unconsciously, as much as he hated to admit it, he would. those animalistic urges were too strong to ignore in that form. "loveable? i beg to differ on that one, but you see me differently than i see myself, and everyone is entitled to their own opinion. but yes...luckily, i do get along with others. we have to work as a team, after all." without hesitation, he held up a single finger. "once. it is a moment that i would love to forget, but i cannot. i am fortunate that i did not lose control here, in this town. i do not think i could ever live that down. the folks here might not be as forgiving..." another laugh bubbled in his throat, but this time, it was one of genuine amusement. "no, it is because i do not wish to hurt you and make you cry." sehun shot back, that same ghost of a smile curling around his brims. "bored or angry? absolutely not! i apologize that i made you feel that way, but at least now, you know the truth. i am sure there are times you will say no to me. i have noticed that you are a good listener, yes. that is a sweet thing to say. there are not very many people i can be this comfortable around to share such personal information, so...i definitely have no issue with admitting that i consider you like family as well. and closer than my actual family ever was." the blush dusting across hyunjin's face didn't go unnoticed, and sehun raised a curious brow. was the angel the cause? he wasn't certain, and it wasn't his place to ask. "i did not know you would be this elated to find out that i am such a horrible beast. but i do understand that people are usually happy to find out facts and quirks about friends. i know that you are here for me. i knew even before this conversation. and in return, i hope you know that i am here for you as well."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ Hyunjin scoffed lightly. "What makes a person? The consciousness not the body, right? Because if the body made the person, there would be two of me," Hyunjin chuckled lightly, recalling the distant fact that he himself did not naturally look like he did now. "So... I'd say there is two. You and him." Even though his attention was partially distracted by Vivi, Hyunjin was still listening intently. While Sehun spoke, answered Hyunjin's questions, the imp picked up the adorable creature, settling it down in his lap, his light jeans be damned. "Mm, that makes sense. Death triggering death. Good thing you're so loveable, and that you get along with people, so you have people to accompany you when you need it. Have you ever lost control at work?" Flipping his hair a little to get the intruding locks out of his face, Hyunjin looked up and over at his friend. While petting and scratching the tiny creature in his lap with one hand, with the other he reached over to give Monsieur some scratchies as well, smiling subconsciously. "Pfft, that's because you know you'd lose," Hyunjin joked, chuckling lightly. "I wouldn't really want to fight you either. Is that so? I thought you were bored of me or angry with me, that's why we had to cut the meeting short," he felt embarrassed confessing his thoughts from back then. It was the truth though. He had no idea this was the issue. "Yeah, right. As if I could say no to you. I would never, just so you know. I consider myself a good listener, even though I talk a whole lot, hah. And it's you. You're the closest person I consider family after my dad. You and Freckles," the imp admitted, looking down at Vivi as his cheeks gained a pink tint again, the idea of having a family warming him up a little more. Though there was some difference. "I'm really thankful you told me. Really. I appreciate it more than you know. And I'm always here for you, for anything. You know, even the heart to heart talk, haha."

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "i suppose there is two of me. but...but we are still technically the same person in one body, so does that even count as two?" he probably sounded silly trying to explain this when he was not exactly sure himself. "suppressing him by being calm is part of it. the other part - i am simply a calm person. it takes quite a bit to rile me up. honestly, no. it is not extremely difficult because i do not encounter a dying or deceased patient every single shift. however, when i do...i prefer having another nurse in the room when we prepare the body just in case it becomes an issue. death seems to be what triggers him the most, which makes sense, since that is how he came to be - through death. you are not being insensitive at all. now that the cat is out of the bag, i expected there to be questions. i have no issue answering whatever you might be curious about." sehun brought a hand up, swiping at his face before he reached to scoop up monsieur, setting him on his lap and unconsciously petting him. vivi noticed his brother getting attention and pawed at the imp's leg, silently demanding for the same treatment. "i would not want to fight you, even if i was not like...this. yes, the diner was our first meeting. i nearly lost control there. thank goodness i did not." again, the wendigo was not at all surprised that hyunjin had so many questions for him. when there was interest and/or curiosity, there were inquiries. that's just how it went. "please, do not do that on my behalf. me telling you about being such a vile creature was not intended to prohibit you from talking freely in any way. i do not see you making me angry often, if at all. either way, i would not hit you or throw something at you!" he stated in a firm tone and straightened up a bit on the bench after receiving that supportive pat. "i still would like to voice or show my appreciation. you did not have to sit here and listen, nor did you even have to agree to meet me, for that matter. you do not know how much this means to me that there is no resentment towards me after i shared all of this with you. it's...a really good feeling."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ Hyunjin slowly pulled back, smiling his tight-lipped grin, though his eyes were a whole rainbow of emotions. It was a lot yet so easy to understand. The man had no other option. It's a rotten luck, but in the end, wouldn't it be a much graver disaster if someone like Sehun ceased to exist? For Hyunjin, it seemed so. "So... you're like... there's two of you? Sort of? Is... is that why you are so calm all the time? To suppress him?" Hyunjin asked, his arms fallin back into his lap, his entire body language screaming interest and attention as he was almost completely turned to the other. "Is it difficult to work in that environment? Do you only get angry? I mean, when you see a dead body? Am I too insensitive? I'm sorry, I'm just... curious. You don't have to tell me, though! We can... leave it for some another time if you're not comfortable saying it." Hyunjin was most likely trying his luck. Not only was he full of questions but his entire being was buzzing with the need for answers. "It now make sense! Everything makes sense! You not wanting to fight me, or you actually going to that Vampire diner with me for the blood pizza! Our first meeting, right?" The excitement seeped through every pore of the imp. Perhaps he shouldn't be this elated by what has been revealed to him but he's just learned something new, about his best friend at that. It was another brand new experience. "I promise to watch my tongue from now on. I don't want you to suffer because of my stupidity. If I ever start to make you angry, just... smack me, or throw something at me, okay?" Hyunjin gave a friendly pat on Sehun's back, something his own father used to do to show support. "You have nothing to thank me for. We're best friends. You care about me, I care about you. I like you for who you are and this doesn't change anything. Well... maybe that I'll have to stop kidding about eating people, but that's nothing I can't manage.."

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "while they essentially deprived me of a home and sustenance... i was the one who...who ate that poor person. my family never forced me." he once again stared across the park at the children throwing snow, though his gaze seemed distant and lost. "the hunger was so overwhelming, so nagging, it led to me doing that without realizing. it is something i never, ever want to experience again. yet, any time i am around a dead body, which you can imagine is difficult to avoid in my profession, am extremely angry, or...if someone i care about is in distress or trouble or gets hurt - i feel it. that is when, ah, 'he' takes over, and my mind goes blank and i cannot remember a thing until that hunger is satisfied. only then do i discover the gravity of all that had happened, but again at that point, it is too late. you would not be able to tell unless i was in that form. it is absolutely grotesque and horrific and unlike anything anyone has ever seen before. mm, i guess i am just too determined to suppress him, so that allows me to function a bit better than others who share the same fate. i still am 'wild' in the sense that i do unforgivable things. er, well, as i mentioned, it is not /me/...it is him. however, that is not an excuse. i am technically responsible." his voiced softened throughout his explanation, falling almost to a whisper. it completely quieted, though, when a sudden warmth enveloped him. he must have missed hyunjin's question, being too wrapped up in his thoughts. it took a few moments, but he figured out that that warmth was a hug. his entire body seemed to calm itself, falling nearly lax in his friend's arms. vivi and monsieur were watching the two with curious eyes, surprised their owner was actually allowing this. "you have nothing to apologize for. i only reacted the way i did because i did not want anyone else to fall into this rabbit hole... i knew you were joking, so i am not sure why that wasn't the first thing on my mind." sehun slowly in a breath through his mouth, then let it out through his nose. "i was right to tell you. at least, that is how it feels." a hand came up, and he gently patted the other's arms still wrapped around him. "thank you. really, thank you. i do not know what else to say right now, other than, thank you."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ "Oh," an unidentifiable breath left Hyunjin's lungs as the male finally let on the cause of why he decided to confide in the imp. His dumb idea was what actually prompted the other to disclose this particular information. He couldn't feel more guilty. He listened attentively nonetheless, snd memorized everything there was to it. Things started to finally fall into place, piece by piece creating a picture Hyunjin was missing about his friend. A wendigo. He was a wendigo who did not eat people. In fact, he realized how difficult it had to be for the nurse to say all this, live with all of this, conceal it, and a tight feeling gripped his chest as his imp heart became heavier. Hyunjin clenched the fabric of his jeans, leaning forward a little. "Y-Your family caused this? This is. A lot. I-I mean not like that, but... I didn't know. I had no idea. I would've never been able to tell! The only wendigos I've came across were wild ones. Looked nothing like you, I mean nothing like a person really." Silence fell as the boy struggled to speak. He had no words. There was still nothing to be ashamed of, he thought as he glanced at the pup curled by his foot. Survival, all sorts of beings would do all sorts of unimaginable things for survival. He knew that first-hand. "I... I must hug you. Can I hug you?" Hyunjin's impulsiveness and determined attitude did not give leeway for any retort, because he instantly leaned over and wrapped his arms around the stoic man. Words were not enough. There was no judgement in the hug. No prejudice, no fear. "You're still you. In my eyes, even if you are a wendigo, you're the purest, kindest, friendliest one I've ever encountered. I'm sorry for saying those things. I really am. This though... I appreciate you telling me. You... don't even know how much..." Hyunjin tightened his hold on the other, words not doing justice to his sincere thoughts and emotions. Not only did he selfishly think he was important, but he also needed the other to know that everything was okay. He was okay. "I can't imagine what you've been through, but I'm always willing to listen if you ever want to talk about it. I'm with you. Always here for you."

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ sehun folded his lips inwards, breathing through his nose for a few brief moments. perhaps, he should let all of the anger he has towards his family go. the past was in the past, and he had obviously moved on with his life. yet, he still couldn't help but toss half of the blame on them for the transition he endured. after tossing those thoughts aside, though, he waved a hand in front of his face as if to dismiss everything. "i would not have wanted you to apologize for asking, anyway. it seems like i am revealing many pieces of my life today as it is, and...i am okay with that." the nudge from hyunjin drew sehun's gaze over to his pups who were now looking at him with, well, adorable 'puppy eyes'. animals were certainly sensitive to their human's feelings, and vivi and monsieur were no exception, especially when they've lived with sehun for so long. "they brought a book to the gym? how interesting. i think you would enjoy the coloring books if you enjoyed the picture ones." he hummed out. that made sense, didn't it? "hyunjin, let me assure you that i would be happy as well. when my friends are happy, i am happy." was what he was about to share, a secret? sure, he hadn't told anyone before...but couldn't it just be a non-disclosure, instead? "ah, i do not know how much of a secret it really is. trust me, i have every reason to be ashamed of this. but no, i would not want you to forget, no matter how ashamed i am. and, please realize that you are not the reason i have been holding back. i know you would not judge me when you are a very carefree and kind person. i am the problem here." now, came time to properly word everything. so, that's why he chose to speak slowly and carefully at first. "i mentioned earlier that the topic you and miss chaewon were discussing struck me differently. that topic being...ah, eating people. it struck me differently because i..." there was a pregnant pause. "i do that. well, um, not /me/, per se." why was this so hard? "i am not sure how familiar you are with wendigos, but i am one. after my family kicked me out, i went too long without eating or drinking and...and snapped." sehun couldn't remember the last time he paused and struggled with words so much. he figured he probably sounded so ridiculous while explaining something that was equally ridiculous. "the hunger grew to be too much to handle, and i was unable to stop myself before it was too late."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ Attentive silence took over the imp as soon as the other began to speak. It was seemingly a difficult topic for his friend, which Hyunjin could easily understand. Family matters were apparently more complicated than he initially thought. He has never seen the other man this upset. When it came to greed, he could fairly well understand why the nurse resented his ancestors for it. He knew all too well how greedy people could be. "I appreciate you telling me this. I should be sorry for asking, but I am not. Knowing this about you makes so many things clearer. Like... you not wanting gifts," Hyunjin tried to lift the mood, going as far as to nudge his friend to somehow calm him down. "Mm. A gym member showed it to me. I enjoyed it. So now I'm reading those. Huh... maybe I should try one of the colouring books too," the imp grinned, happy that he could share his new adventures, even if it was pretty insignificant. "Thanks, I will make sure that you'll enjoy them as well. It will only make me happy that way. When we're both happy doing those things," Hyunjin admitted. Honestly, he was about to ask if the important thing to share has already been discussed, but before he could, Sehun had already started. Hyunjin watched him, intrigued. He had no clue but he was ready to learn. "Oh? Mm, I'll keep that in mind. So this is a secret? There's nothing to be ashamed of really. And you can tell me anything, sir. I don't judge. Besides, if you change your mind, I can always make myself forget," he was referring to his wish-granting ability, a typical wide, tight-lipped smile plastered to his face. Just what could his best friend mean by that? The imp couldn't deny the fact that he wondered a lot about the nature of Sehun's being. The only reasonable conclusion always happened to be a vampire. Though, the other refuted that, which left Hyunjin wondering still.

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ sehun should have been more surprised at his friend's sudden question, but he wasn't. a few moments passed as he stared down his hand resting on his lap that slowly clenched and unclenched before he parted his lips to speak. "my family is something i usually do not like to talk about because of...how things transpired and the rage that builds inside of me, but since we are friends, this is something you should probably know, right?" he paused for a second longer before continuing on. "the top attribute that i hated about my family, not just my father, was their greed. they could not go a single day without letting someone, somewhere know how wealthy they were. i never cared for money or material possessions, and i still do not, so we clashed often. i saw how much it consumed them, not that they were much different during my childhood, and it filled me with so much disgust that i couldn't stand it. that...was one of the reasons i left. or, rather, one of the reasons i was kicked out." he finished, seemingly almost out of breath after all of that. he blamed the anger at every nerve in his body simply from reminiscing about that specific part of his past. however, as quick as it came, it dissipated as their conversation moved along. "maybe it was just how i perceived it then. could be my mistake. still, i am happy to know you were not upset since that was truly my speculation." once again, curse technology, he thought. he nearly made a mountain out of a molehill. "i agree. sometimes...it is not that easy, though. people are quick to judge. ah, how did you come across these books? and yes, there is such thing as adult coloring books. quite a few of my patients had them to keep them busy." he did notice that the stress levels significantly went down when those patients colored in the books. that was one non-pharmacological method he could swear by, at least. "thinking over all of your decisions is definitely recommended. your father is right." that snicker made sehun unconsciously shift on the bench. "hiking...flying in a plane...teaching you how to drive..." he repeated slowly. "of course, i will accompany you, and teach you, for that matter, if that is what would make you happy." those didn't seem so wild, after all. yet, there was still suspicion that maybe hyunjin was leaving the wild ones out. "mhm, we do." the wendigo confirmed. his gaze shifted to the group of rowdy children across the park before looking back to his companion. "now comes what i intended to share with you. this is...something i never spoke aloud before. not to another person, not to another creature, and not even to my dogs. just please keep that in mind; you are the first to hear what i am about to tell you, and i...well, i am more than ashamed of who i am, no, what i am."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ "Oh? What is the first thing?" Hyunjin blurted out without thinking it over, catching himself as soon as the words left his mouth. "I-I mean... you don't have to! I just... am curious." The imp didn't want to invade his friend's privacy, however whenever he got the chance to know more about the mysterious man, he felt like he needed to latch onto that. "Was my texting not normal? I didn't feel any different," Hyunjin's lips turned into a thoughtful pout, wondering if he did something out of line. In all honesty, he didn't feel any different during that time. Ah, the patients. That's different. I would be upset too if you sent away my visitors. I wouldn't want to be alone there either," Hyunjin chuckled softly, feeling genuinely sympathy towards the upset patients. "But I meant your friends. If they are upset with you for you being you, they aren't truly good friends, right? Oh! They have all these pictures, they almost look like cartoons but without motion! They even have sound effects!" The excitement was obvious in the boy's voice, his new discovery his new obsession. "There are coloring books for adults too?" a silent gasp left his lips, his eyes twinkling. Complementing each other truly sounded like what their friendship was based on. The calm and the storm. "It doesn't sound silly. It actually makes me think over my decisions. And that's a good thing, or so my dad used to say." For a moment, Hyunjin remained with his mouth open to actually ask whether the kidney stones were actual stones, but soon thought against it and only snickered gently. "Oh, you don't have to be adventurous for that. Hmmm. Hiking is one of them. Travelling by plane is one too. I'm scared of those machines. Oh, and I'd like you to teach me how to drive," Hyunjin beamed, trying to recall the more simple activities just in case the more drastic ones would scare his best friend. "That's good. Then we have all the time to hang out. And experience things, haha," Hyunjin kept his eyes on the pups, smiling to himself, excited over his own imagination.

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "of course, i definitely will try. i vowed to never be consumed by my work...it was an attribute my father had, an attribute that i hated...probably the second thing i hated about him the most, and there were lots of things i despised about that man." his words and laugh that followed were both bitter, the memory striking a chord of anger deep within. even after all of these years, sehun's family left behind a bad taste. "all i am saying is that it seemed like you were. i know with texting, you cannot properly display emotions, but your texts last night appeared to be different than your normal ones. mm, plenty of people grow upset with me. patients, especially, when i have to remind them to take their medication or that their visitors have to leave, et cetera. it is almost inevitable to avoid anger or hurt feelings. however, i am relieved and glad to hear that. i stay true to myself and can only hope people like me for me. oh? i was not aware of picture books for adults... but i suppose it makes sense when there are coloring books for adults, hm?" sehun's brows rose to his hairline at hyunjin's next comment. "i do not see how it would be, but i am not a man of humor, so it makes sense. humor is your department, and i think that's part of why we complement each other nicely. you look up to me...? i am happy to give you what guidance i can and offer advice when it is needed, but i also want to make sure that you are the one making the decisions for your life. might sound silly, but it is true. patients ask me what they should do all of the time, but that is not for me to decide. i imagine that there are some wholesome things on there as well. i would hope you would not have all dangerous, exhilarating tasks..." although, maybe there was a small part of sehun that pictured hyunjin doing exactly that - choosing rather daredevil things to put on his list. the question drew a small chortle from his chest. "if you mention eating someone again, it might turn the pain into a kidney stone." sehun glanced over at his friend, interest piqued at the mention of wanting to know something, and hummed in response. but when that 'something' was revealed to him, the wendigo was speechless for a few moments. "me...? most of them are with me? i am not adventurous. this is...very surprising to me. can i ask what some of those things are that you want to experience together?" his lashes slowly fluttered. "well, as far as i know, we are not going anywhere. we are here in magnolia for a long while."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ Hyunjin smiled at the thought of his best friend having the desire to live life and not just waste it. Mainly because it might mean those said pleasures of life would somehow involve him. "I hope you stick to it. I mean, it's great that you enjoy what you do, but... there are so many amazing things in this world you can do." The shake of the head caught the imp's attention. He pouted slightly at the disapproving gesture. "I really wasn't. And I'm sure no one gets upset with you. You're an amazing person. And your friends like you for who you are, talking from experience heh. I left to go read. I discovered these picture books and... did you know there are picture books meant for grownups?" Hyunjin laughed a little. "I thought those were supposed to be children's books, haha." Instantly, Hyunjin reached for the stretched out pup, petting it on its head as it excitedly supported itself against the bench. "It's not a flaw. It makes you funnier. It's unexpected of you to joke and it makes it even more hilarious that way," that was exactly what Hyunjin thought. He knew Sehun never really believed him when he said he was actually funny. But he genuinely thought so. "I guess not, but I look up to you, and I take into consideration whatever you say. I need guidance, you know. And you're that, my guide. And just so you know, there are plenty of wholesome things on that list," the boy smiled proudly, his eyes closing with the smugness, as he leaned back against the backrest of the bench. "Headache, chest pain, when do I become kidney stones?" He chuckled, amused, and if he was eyeing that ghost of a smile with endearment, it wasn't for anyone else to know. "Hmmm. Wanna know something? I have a few items on the list with specific people I want to experience them with. Most of them is you. And the pups. That's how much I enjoy you." Hyunjin adopted and sincerely liked the expression. 'Enjoy you,' it sounded very nice. However, it also filled him with warmth that wasn't all that natural for him, giving his face some pink discoloration a normal human being would get in this chilly weather. If it were possible, he'd think he finally become human. But no. This was something else. "I'm happy too. Glad to have you and the doggos in my life," the imp confessed, avoiding eye contact with the male but instead focusing on the pups by his legs. They will keep his flushed face a secret, right?

@hyunjin h。ˢᵃᵘᶜʸᴶ "unfortunately, i'm busy more often than not. i hate it...but it comes with the job. however, i don't want to be so wrapped up in my job that i miss out on the other pleasures of life." monsieur and vivi tugged on their leashes, and sehun couldn't help but let go to give them more room to 'attack' the imp with affection. there was no threat of the pups running away; they were too attached to their owner. "it seemed to me like you were, but regardless, i wanted to be sure because i do not like hurting or upsetting friends. i have very few close ones as it is." he slowly shook his head. "you won't discourage me, i promise. i'll admit that it is difficult at times to know whether or not i am joking, when that is such a rare feat... my playfulness does not match everyone else's, and i think that is one of my flaws." the dogs quickly followed hyunjin over to where he sat, one placing his paws up on the bench, and the other settling in a fluff heap on the ground near the imp's feet. "if you placed those items on your list, i definitely believe that you would not find them concerning. i understand you want to experience things, and i encourage you to do so. it...well, it's really not for me to say what you can and cannot do, anyway, right? it's your life, not mine." once again, sehun shook his head, although this time, a frown curled his lips downward. "i'm serious, though. you are not a headache. and...honestly, i do enjoy hearing about what is on your bucket list, no matter if they give me chest pain or not." to emphasize that joke, one corner of his mouth managed to lift up in a ghost of a smile. "because i enjoy you. people like hearing things, no matter what they are, about people they care about. so, yes, your company is pleasant and unlike anything i have ever experienced before. and i am happy that the pups and i have the same effect."

@sehun o。ᵒʰˢᵉ "Ah, that's good then," Hyunjin smiled up at the other, who was sitting on the bench, while he attentively gave the puppies the special treatment. He was not far from plopping down onto the ground and let the two crawl all over him. "You're always busy," the imp chuckled, "it's a normal thing at hospitals, right? I think I understand that now, heh." Over the time, Hyunjin truly tried to learn up on things, educate himself on how the modern world runs. He continued listening to what the nurse had to say while at the same time paying attention to the pups, absorbing the words like a sponge. A smile rose on his face again as he heard the apology, how absurd, there was nothing to be sorry for. "Like I said, it's alright. I wasn't really upset. That might be it though. You joking and teasing is quite unusual," that did bring a little embarrassed crinkle to Hyunjin's smiling eyes. "You're always so serious, but it's nice to see you playful. I don't want to discourage you just because I might take you too seriously, okay?" The imp gently patted both pups on their heads before moving to take a seat beside Sehun. Sitting comfortably on one side, he took a breath of the fresh air. "My bucket list... uh... that... uhm... there are some things like that. Yes. But... I don't find them concerning, you know. I just want to experience things. Everything. I've lived long enough, and yet there are so many ordinary things I still haven't done," a small pout replaced the broad smile as his head hung to look at the ground under his feet. "But I will do my best not to concern you with them. And being a headache is literally what I am," he laughed it off, trying to convey as best as he could that he was comfortable with his nature. An imp equals to a headache, they are born to be mischievous to the extreme. He wasn't offended by it whatsoever. The next part, though, took him by surprise. From those words, Hyunjin's pout morphed into a slightly shocked yet happy expression and he slowly turned to look at Sehun again. "Hah, mine? Wow," he exhaled happily. "That's nice to hear. Me too. I mean... your company to me... means the same. A-And the pups, obviously," he laughed through it, giving them a look as they gathered to sit around his feet, wagging their tails.