Always, No Matter How Many Times [1/2]
Title: Always, No Matter How Many Times
Pairing/s: Baekhyun/Chanyeol
Rating: G
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Length: twoshot, 14,338wc
Description: Spirited Away!au (i.e. story is set in this world)
Summary: Sogogi didn’t expect his life to change so drastically with the arrival of the Time Spirit. He never imagined he’d discover adventure, happiness, and even love, but he did. Now he has to decide upon a choice--except... maybe it just isn't his choice to make at all.
an: originally written for sncj_bigbang and posted here. Thanks to the wonderful YOYA for making this art for me. ;;
an2: ALL THE THANKS TO THE BIGGEST BULLY minwhore who i disturbed out of the blue just so i could cry over this. ;; ILU.
The excitement was so palpable you could almost touch it. Everyone was abuzz. Frantic footsteps could be heard racing across the polished wooden floors as servers bumped into each other in their haste to get to their destinations. The Bathhouse had never been this alive.
There was only one person there who didn't seem to notice the charged energy filling the halls of the Bathhouse. Soh was too busy with his nightly chore of laundering all the used and dirty rags to bother questioning where all the servers were going. Although, the dark-haired boy couldn't help but look up from the cloth he was washing when he heard his name being called by a familiar voice. He squinted towards the direction the shouts were coming from and the corners of his thin lips turned up when he saw his friend, Chenchen, expertly skirting around the other workers to get to him.
"Soh!" the boy called out again. "Sogogi! Soh!"
He waited for his friend to reach his side before he answered. "Hey, slow down."
Chenchen clutched tightly at the sleeves of Soh's plain orange kimono before he anxiously said, "We can't slow down! Let's go!"
"Go where?" Sogogi asked but his overly enthusiastic friend didn't waste time in answering and just unceremoniously dragged him away.
It was a good thing that Chenchen was a mouse spirit and could find his way through the maze of bulky bodies crowding the entrance. Fortunately, Soh had a small frame, too, so he could squeeze through quite as easily as the other boy. They were both breathless and panting when they reached the bridge outside. Chenchen pulled him a little to the side, moving out of the way of the older workers.
There were a large number of servers outside but they were more organized. The crowd was parted in the middle as if making way for something. As per usual, two lines of female workers were standing on either side of the entrance. They were wearing flower-patterned yukatas and carrying brightly colored fans--small eyes lined with kohl and wide frog-like faces painted heavily--ready to welcome the customers.
However, tonight, Soh finally noticed that something was indeed different.
He glanced up the darkening sky then shifted his gaze towards the gaily lit entertainment district on the other side of the bridge. Soh's brows knotted. They appeared the same to him. He then looked at the gigantic Bathhouse soaring above the red bridge, bathed vermillion by the setting sun. The large metal chimney emitted the same black smoke it did every day while the same steam rose unending on the right side of the building. Everything was where it should be.
Except, there was something strange with the way the wind blew because... It didn't. Not even a small gust was present. In contrast to the beings milling about him, the night was so still it was as if it was holding its breath in anticipation for what was to come.
Soh felt a nudge to his side.
"When the guests arrive, bow low but be sure to show your face and get noticed, okay?" Chenchen whispered.
He looked at his friend questioningly. "What for? And why did you drag me out here? I still have to mop the floors and scrub the stairs and--"
"Shhh! Do you want them to hear and notice that you're out here? Do you want to be sent back inside?"
"But my work's inside," he replied in a hushed tone.
"No, you have to be here! He's coming. One of the most powerful spirits in the Realm is visiting the Bathhouse tonight!" Chenchen said excitedly.
"Who?"
"The Time Spirit!"
The Time Spirit? Soh frowned in thought.
The Bathhouse was known all over the Spirit World and beings from all four directions travel to the small island it was located on to recuperate and relax. They serve gods, spirits, and guardians--any and every creature in the Realm. As long as you have the gold to pay, the Bathhouse's large doors were open for you.
Soh thought of all the beings he had seen since he started working there. He had already laid eyes on the Earth Guardian and was surprised to see that he looked just like an ordinary boy not much older than him. He saw different river and water gods every day and he even caught sight of the legendary Black Dragon once. But he had never even heard of the Time Spirit.
"Should I know him?" he asked.
"Of course!" Chenchen sputtered. "The Time Spirit is like the spirit of all spirits! I even heard that Life and Death are scared of him and that's saying something. He has been here since the beginning. No. I think he is the beginning," his friend finished, eyes widening at his own realization.
"But how come I haven't heard of him before?"
"Because it's the first time he's coming here. That's why everyone is scrambling to get in front because it's an honor just to be in his presence. And I also heard that the Time Spirit is generous. Just think of all the gold he will give the one he bestows his favor on!"
Chenchen fixed his short-cropped hair and even patted his sharp eyebrows in place, "I have to look my best and you should, too, so he will pick us to serve him!"
Soh just smiled at the way his friend was primping himself. He knew no matter how much he fixed his appearance, he wouldn't get chosen. First of all, he was the youngest worker there--not even twenty summers old--and he didn't even have experience in serving and entertaining. He was always delegated to do the dirty work. Secondly, unlike all the other employees there who were reincarnated animal spirits, Soh was different. He was human and the only one left after the young girl, Sen, was set free six full moons ago.
There was no way he would get the favor of the Time Spirit. In this Realm, no one ever favored humans.
They heard the ringing of the town bell, signaling the arrival of the ferry that brought the guests to the island. Before long, Soh could see the procession of the new arrivals as the lanterns lining the main street glowed brighter.
"They're coming," the mouse spirit whispered, "Bow down."
Soh bent down and placed his slender hands above his knee, eyes still surreptitiously following the newcomers. There were about a dozen figures in black silk robes in front of the line. Spirits, he thought, based on the large white masks they were wearing. Each one of them had the symbol of a sand clock emblazoned on the front of their robes.
The progress was slow and Soh had a strong urge to crane his neck to peek over them and get a glimpse of the Spirit they were so obviously protecting. He gave in and he caught sight of inky black hair and scarlet robes worn by a tall figure. Was that the Time Spirit?
Soh felt another nudge against his side and saw Chenchen anxiously motioning for him to stoop lower. He reluctantly did as his friend wanted but not before he threw another quick glance at the imposing presence in the middle of the procession.
"The Great Time Spirit has arrived!" the manager announced and a hush fell over the crowd.
The Bathhouse owner, Yubaba, went in front and her large, wrinkly face split into a warm welcoming grin... or as welcoming as a sly witch--with inhumanly large figure as well as a huge and prominent crooked nose--could grin. Soh had always been wary of her. Yubaba was quite overbearing and intimidating.
And selfish--binding everyone here to her bathhouse forever unless they could miraculously recall their full names which she "stole" from them upon signing the contract. Soh had already lost hope in ever getting free. He had been here for so long; he couldn't even remember how many seasons have passed since he found himself lost in the Realm.
He was abruptly pulled from his thoughts when the spirits stopped by the entrance and moved aside to reveal their master. The red-robed individual stepped forward for everyone to see.
They said he was one of the first to exist in this World yet he was the very picture of beauty and youth. His peach colored skin had an ethereal glow. His raven hair set off his small, slanted eyes to perfection--the brown orbs reflecting centuries gone by.
He was magnificent.
"Welcome, Your Greatness," Yubaba said reverently before she bowed. Soh's jaw dropped. She had never done this before. His gaze returned to the Time Spirit to see his reaction but his attention was caught by a slight movement behind him. There was an even taller being standing a step away from Time Spirit's side.
Soh's eyes rounded upon seeing the mud and soot covering the figure's burgundy cloak. His head was under the hood of the robe and his face was concealed by shadows but Soh had an uncanny feeling that the mysterious being was staring straight back at him.
He quickly looked away but the feeling remained. His heart began to thump loud and fast. Soh huddled closer to his friend, convincing himself that he was just imagining things.
"Our doors are always open for the Great Time Spirit, Tao. We are at your service," Yubaba continued, gesturing towards the servers.
Tao gave her a nod.
"Let us all go inside then, Master Tao. We have the most luxurious of baths prepared for you and your company." Yubaba waved for the crowd to get out of the way as she led Tao through the entrance.
"I am not in need of a bath. Just a place to rest for the travel had been long and tedious. This place," Tao said as his gaze travelled up the imposing structure before him, “is quite far from our land."
Yubaba was quick to respond in her gravelly voice. "Of course we also have the best rooms fit for Your Greatness. I believe you will find that the long travel will be worth it."
The witch's smile froze, though, when she finally spotted the figure behind the Time Spirit. Tao probably noticed where she was looking at for he said, "Oh, someone else is in need of a bath. Have one prepared for my good friend."
At the mention of the word friend, everyone's gazes went to the hooded figure. Soh could hear the muted sounds of disgust and protests go through the servers at his appearance. He certainly does need a thorough bath to clean off the filth covering him.
"Of... course. Sure," Yubaba replied, her tone a little less confident.
Tao smiled in approval. The witch continued to lead them inside followed closely by the servers who were still eager to get the favor of the Time Spirit.
"Come on!" Chenchen said, grabbing onto Soh and trying to beat the others to the front.
"Do you know him?" Soh asked while being pushed and squished by the eager workers around him.
"I just told you he's the Time Spirit!" Chenchen answered distractedly, tiptoeing to see where they could squeeze through.
"No, not him. The other one. The one behind--"
His friend grimaced. "The dirty one? I don't know him. Oh, dear. I hope we won't be chosen to give the bath to that creature!" Chenchen saw an opening and pulled on Sogogi. With a forceful shove, they found themselves inside the Bathhouse, beside the watch stand by the entrance. Soh found the guests standing with Yubaba in the middle of the atrium.
"You can leave your friend to choose which tub he wants and my trusted workers will make sure to take care of him, Master Tao. I can then guide you and the rest of your party up at our best room on the second floor. Shall we?" Yubaba said graciously.
The Time Spirit proceeded to walk towards the elevators especially made for important guests. Yubaba threw the bath's assistant manager a glance, ordering him silently to take care of the filthy spirit, before following in the Time Spirit's wake. All the other servers moved to follow once again but the corridors were narrow so it was more difficult to squeeze through.
Soh held onto Chenchen tightly but he found himself being suddenly picked up from the collar. He looked up to see, Aniyaku, the assistant manager holding onto him. "Where do you think you're going?"
He couldn't find his voice fast enough to reply. Aniyaku dragged him back towards the center of the atrium. Sogogi struggled to get free but he was too thin and small compared to the frog spirit holding onto him. He made one last desperate glance towards the direction Chenchen disappeared to. Was he going to get punished for skipping his duties?
He heard the other workers snicker at him before shuffling toward the employee elevators to go after the Time Spirit's group. Soh closed his eyes and resigned himself to another of Aniyaku's unfair punishments. He just wished that it wasn't the one he gave him two moons ago. He still remembered the terror of almost falling off the brick roof after the assistant manager told him to scrub them clean. It took Soh more than an hour just to climb there as his limbs were shaking uncontrollably. He had always hated heights.
He was surprised though when Aniyaku dropped him in the middle of the room, near the biggest tub inside the bathhouse. Soh felt a wave of relief. Was this the punishment? Cleaning the large tub would be a piece of cake.
"Sorry for the wait Time Master's friend," the manager said over Sogogi's head. "But here is our Soh, the best bath server we have."
Wait. Time Master's friend? Best bath server? Soh felt dread settle in his stomach and he was afraid to even turn around. He felt eyes boring into the back of his head causing his knees to weaken. No. Please no.
"Soh, you take care of this fellow and I'll go assist Yubaba," Aniyaku said with a wide grin that made his frog face even uglier. He sounded kind but Soh could see the threatening glint in his large bulging eyes.
With a last smirk, Aniyaku left, leaving Soh alone with the scary hooded spirit behind him. He heard footsteps walking away from him and despite his anxiety, Soh looked back to see the filthy spirit stride towards the cubicle housing the large wooden tub.
He would rather scrub the roof again than assist him but he couldn't do anything except to trail after the spirit. No other server was around. They were all probably at the second floor with the Time Spirit, Soh thought grudgingly. He paused mid-step though when he remembered that he wasn't in possession of any bath token. He needed it to request for the medicinal soak that would help clean the somber creature ahead of him.
He was about to turn to get some but then he recalled Aniyaku already went to attend to Yubaba. Soh had to suppress a groan. All he could use was the basic bath token that could be found in every cubicle--the one for water. He reluctantly continued to trudge after the spirit, trying to think of what to do.
He supposed water would suffice. He just had to scrub the guest thoroughly and hope he didn’t hurt him in the process. He doubted he wouldn't though as he watched the tall figure climb slowly into the circular tub. Mud caked around his feet and slim ankles. It would take all his strength to get all of it off.
Soh wanted to just slump down and cry but he was never one to give in to obstacles like this. He had learned to toughen up since the other workers tended to bully him into doing their jobs. If they so much as saw a sign of weakness from him, they would get more devious and think of more ways to make him suffer for being different from them.
I can do this, he told himself. Sogogi, you can do this.
He rolled up the sleeves of his kimono close to his elbows and walked purposefully forward. His footsteps faltered a bit however when he saw that the spirit had let down the hood and was staring at him once again. It didn't help Soh's confidence to see that the spirit's hair was long and as filthy as the rest of him. It was so dirty; he couldn't even guess what color it was. The poor human had never seen a creature as grimy as him.
The sooner you get started, the sooner you'll finish. Come on, Soh. You can do it.
Still feeling the weight of the other's stare, Soh took the bath token hanging beside the cubicle entrance and marched towards the small hatch in the wooden wall. He opened it and attached the token to the stretchable purple string inside before he pulled.
Sogogi immediately ran to the wooden pipe beside the hatch and pulled the hanging rope affixed to it to let the incoming water spill into the tub. He somehow felt comforted at the sound of the cold water rushing down the pipe.
Expecting that the water was enough to fill the tub, he let go of the rope and the pipe went back to its upright position. He spun around, intending to start with the bath but he was shocked to see that the tub was empty except for the Time Spirit's friend standing in the middle. His eyes widened in confusion. Where had all the water gone?
He returned to the pipe and pulled it down again, making sure that the mouth was directly on top of the tub. He almost slid down the side of the tub in surprise, though, when he saw the water turn into steam the moment it touched the spirit's cloak. "You're so hot!" he exclaimed.
He didn't know why--there wasn't any sound at all but Soh could almost hear the other laughing at him. He pulled on the rope harder to make sure that the pipe didn’t return to its original position and then went on to jump into the tub. Embarrassed and more than a little bit indignant at being laughed at, he determinedly marched towards the spirit. There was no one around save the two of them but, even though he was still more than a bit frightened of the tall being, he was resolved to finish this task.
The spirit stood straighter as Soh came closer. On his way, he snatched a small cloth from the side of the tub. He stopped only when he was a foot away from the tall male. "I'm just going to--"
Sogogi raised his hand--the one holding the damp cloth--and touched it tentatively to the other's face. He gave out a yelp at the contact. The spirit was indeed very hot. What if he burned? His apprehension increased but no, he wouldn't let this stop him. What to do?
Soh surprised even himself when he took hold of the spirit's shirt and pulled him directly under the water pipe. They were instantly surrounded by steam, stinging his eyes and clouding his vision. But the brazen move worked. The continuous flow of water over the spirit's head made his temperature drop bit by bit.
With the water now slowly filling up the tub, he could now start scrubbing on the Time Spirit's friend. Taking a fortifying breath, he held on to the other's arm and began to scrub on it. Thankfully, the spirit didn't offer any resistance although Sogogi could still feel his stare heavy on his face.
He was now sweating profusely with the effort and the heat that emanated from the spirit but Soh continued with scrubbing the arm clean. After a few more strokes, Soh was awarded the sight of fair skin under all the soot. This only made him more determined as he rubbed harder, brows knotted in concentration.
An arm. Two arms. The neck. The sharp collarbones. He went on to wipe at the other's face again, feeling more confident as more of the soot and mud were washed away. He transferred his attention to the shoulder length hair. He had to tiptoe to reach the top of his head since the spirit was really tall. Locks the color of fire flowed through Soh's slim fingers. But he didn't even notice how glorious it was, too intent he was on cleaning the spirit.
Satisfied with his work on the other's head, he proceeded to clean lower. Soh absentmindedly took off the spirit's robes and began to wash his chest. He was too focused on his task to notice the smile lurking on the spirit's lips as he looked down on the young server.
Water spilled over the sides of the tub. Soh could feel his arm muscles protesting from all the cleaning he was doing. Still he went on to unfasten the spirit's trousers, frowning when the top knot would not budge.
He heard a choked laugh. His heart slammed on his chest and his hands froze on the fastenings. Sogogi stopped breathing.
"I think I can handle that myself," said a deep, husky voice that sent shivers down his spine. He looked up and saw large golden brown eyes peering at him before they dipped to where Soh's hands were.
It was only then that Sogogi realized what he was doing... where he was touching. With a squeak, he let go and backed away, tripping on his own feet and landing with a splash in the tub. He tried to stand up but only succeeded to kick the drain plug. He watched helplessly as the water swirled down the drain and to make matters worse the pipe chose that moment to return to its original position, stopping the incoming flow of water.
In less than a few seconds, Soh was left in the middle of the empty tub, soaked and gaping at an equally wet, very amused half-naked spirit. The taller male took a step forward and as if Soh wasn't rattled enough, the stubborn knot gave and the pants fell.
Make that fully naked spirit then.
He watched with ill-concealed glee as the short boy scooted away from him. His small hand was clamped over his eyes while the other was held up as if to stop him from getting any closer. The taller male's grin widened. This should be fun.
He advanced towards the boy, kicking off the heavy trousers that trapped his ankles. He saw the young server peek between his fingers and heard another squeak when the short boy saw that he was coming nearer. In no time at all, the server reached the edge of the tub and had nowhere else to go.
With complete disregard for his nudity, the spirit walked closer until he was exactly in front of the young man. He bent down and pried the boy's hand away from his face. He wanted to see the bright eyes that looked at him so curiously during the procession. He was able to pull the hand away but the boy's eyelids remained tightly shut much to his disappointment. His gaze dropped down to the server's trembling mouth. The boy really was nervous.
He didn't want that so he let go of the other's hand and stepped back. "I just wanted to get the wash cloth, you know," he said.
The boy's hand lifted and held out the small cloth to him. Immediately after he had it in his grip, the server hurriedly climbed over the side of the tub to escape. The taller male was torn between exasperation and amusement at the eagerness of the boy to get away from him. "What was the name of the manager again?" he mused loudly. "Should I tell him that his 'best bath server' left me to fend for myself?"
At the mention of the manager, the young server's footsteps halted. He could see his thin shoulders tense.
"You said... You said you can handle it yourself," the boy replied, almost accusingly.
"Yes, but I didn't say you could go."
The server's fists clenched before he turned back, eyes still closed. "I apologize, master," he said looking anything but apologetic. "What else can I do for you?"
The spirit studied the boy's face. He had even features--a straight enough nose, thin lips, smooth cheeks and a narrow chin. He wasn't unattractive, he thought. He just looked plain. His eyes were a different story though. That was why the spirit wanted to see them again. He wanted to make sure that he didn't just imagine the dazzling light he saw reflected from their depths.
"You can open your eyes and look at me."
The boy's lips thinned in dismay. "Are you... decent?" A blush stole over the boy's cheeks. He let out a laugh that made the young server frown. "Is that a yes?"
Relenting, the taller male picked up his robe and wrapped it around his waist. "Yes."
The boy cautiously opened his eyes.
It was strange how his breath seemed to catch when the server gave him the full impact of his gaze. He was right. Those eyes were marvelous and unlike any other that he had seen in the Realm. Then it hit him.
"You're human," he said amazement. "What are you doing in our world?"
"I--" The boy paused and his brows knotted. "I'm not entirely sure."
"You're not sure?" He went down the wooden steps beside the tub and stood in front of the boy. "Soh, isn't it?"
"Soh, Sogogi, yes. That's my name," the other replied tonelessly.
It wasn't, he thought. The spark in the boy's irises dimmed when he said the name. So that was the kind of spell this child was under.
"I thought you were a girl," he remarked, hoping that he'd get the glow back.
"I'm not!" And there was that flash again.
"Isn't that a female server's uniform?" The spirit said, gesturing to the orange kimono the boy was wearing. "The other males are wearing the blue one."
The server looked away and he could see the boy blushing once more. "I--These are the only ones that fit."
"Ah, yes. Because you're so tiny." For some reason he wanted to rile the boy. "Just like a girl."
"I'm not the one with long curly hair," the boy answered insolently.
"Touché." He laughed. Unexpectedly, the server grinned.
He didn't notice that he was staring until he saw the boy's smile disappear.
"Time Spirit's... friend. I think your bath is done. I do have a lot of things to do and I just have to... I have go." Soh gave a quick bow before beating a hasty retreat.
"Wait! What about your reward?" he called out, unwilling to let the boy leave. But Sogogi didn't even turn to look back. He was left there alone and quite confused as to what happened.
He shrugged and went to put on the white robe placed on top of a low table. If Soh had been able to finish bathing the spirit, he would have seen the marks on the male's back before it was covered up. Two gold and crimson colored wings like wide tongues of flame licking across his broad shoulders and down his back. The brand of the Phoenix Spirit.
"Time Spirit's friend?"
Phoenix turned to see Bathhouse manager by the door. He could see the amazement in his gaze as it travelled from his head to his toe. He had an urge to strike a pose for the horrid creature just for effect.
"Where's Master Tao?" he asked.
"Ah, yes. He wants to see you in the Lotus Room. Please follow me."
He was directed towards an elevator. They alighted on the second floor where he was then ushered down two corridors. Phoenix could see the crowd gathered outside the large doors bearing the lotus emblem. He found himself looking for a mop of short chestnut brown hair even though he knew he wouldn't be there.
The doors opened and he was asked to enter before they were closed behind him. Inside was Tao, lounging on his side across a luxurious midnight blue carpet spread over the tatami floor. Black lacquered columns framed the large room along with rice paper painted with colorful flower patterns. "You look right at home."
The Time Spirit raised a brow. "You look clean."
Phoenix chuckled. "I do."
"I told you the bath would do you good." Tao motioned for him to sit. "Also, you already found him."
"Found who?" Phoenix sat cross legged across from the other.
"The creature you would give your last feather to." Tao sat up. "I thought you'd never find him."
Had he really found the recipient of the Wish? His mind went back to his encounter with the human boy. "How did you know?"
"You look unburdened," the Great Spirit answered. "It's great to know. You only have a short time left in this cycle and it would have been a waste if nobody got to receive it."
"Were there times when I didn't give anybody the last feather?" Phoenix asked, genuinely curious. Tao has been with him since the beginning of his first one thousand years. This would be his 812th according to his friend. It was unfortunate though, that when he ends up being reborn, he loses his memories of the past lifetime. He wouldn't exactly know anything except for what the Time Spirit decides to tell him. Which depended on his moods much to the Phoenix's chagrin.
"Yes. Twice. First one was in your sixteenth millennia; there was a war in the realm and you were too busy defending our territories to bother looking for one. The second was on your 37th," Tao explained.
"Was there another war?"
"No, you were just too lazy that time."
Phoenix leaned backward until he was sprawled on the floor, gazing up at the ceiling. His eyes traced the intricate patterns of lotus flowers painted on it. "Did you know I would find him here? Was that why you forced me to go even if I didn't want to?"
"No. I didn't. For countless lifetimes I have endured the same filthy Phoenix spirit before he turns to ashes. This time I just really wanted you to be bathed. You stink," the Time spirit answered quite seriously.
"Thank you, Your Benevolence," he said in between laughs.
"Since you're all clean, we will set out for home tomorrow." Tao arranged his robes so they fell more comfortably around him. "Have you granted the Wish yet?"
"The boy ran away."
Tao sighed. "Alright, I'll allow you some time to give it to him tomorrow. Then we leave."
Chanyeol looked intently at his friend. "Since I only have a fortnight left... Can we perhaps spend it here?"
"For what reason?" the Time Spirit asked.
"No reason. I just felt like it."
The other male studied him and Phoenix kept his face impassive. He wasn't sure how to answer his friend about his sudden reluctance to go. He didn't even know the cause himself.
After a few moments, Tao nodded in assent. Phoenix smiled in gratitude before returning to his study of the ceiling. But, this time, instead of the flowers, what he saw were a pair of sparkling brown eyes.
"Soh, wake up!" a voice screeched into his ear.
He groaned and mumbled a no before he buried his head against his hard pillow.
"Sogogi, you wake up this instant!" he heard before he was rudely shaken awake.
He tried to sit up but his head was too heavy and his muscles ached so much that he just fell onto his back again. Soh was tired after bathing the spirit and finishing his usual workload last night. He just wanted a few more minutes of rest. He turned on his side and pulled the blanket higher on his shoulders.
"If you don't wake up, Yubaba will have your hide. And mine, too! So. Wake. Up. Now!"
Soh felt the blanket being snatched away from him. He frowned and opened an eye. He saw Chenchen's face close to his, glaring at him. "What?" he asked groggily.
"Wake up, Soh!" the mouse spirit said a little frantic now. "The Time Spirit is looking for you and that was fifteen minutes ago! If we don't get there, Aniyaku would surely punish us."
Hearing the worried tone in his friend's voice, Soh forced himself to get up. "But why would the Time Spirit look for me?" he asked, confused.
"We don't have time! Wash your face and fix yourself! Come on!"
Soh was dragged from his quilt and made to change into his work clothes. It was still so early, based from the rays of the sun slanting through the glass windows. Usually, the space was supposed to be cramped from numerous male servers sharing the same room. However, this morning, Soh noticed that the quarters was empty save for him and Chenchen.
"Where's everybody?"
They were running towards the service elevators before his friend replied. "Everyone's at the second floor, waiting for you."
"Huh?"
He pushed Soh inside the elevator carriage before going in. Chenchen gave him a pout. "You didn't tell me that you bathed the Phoenix!"
"Aniyaku forced me to and--What phoenix?"
"Oh, merciful heavens, I'm so happy for you!" His friend gave him a hug. "Think of the gold, Soh!"
There was a ding when the elevator stopped. Chenchen tugged on his arm as they made their way towards the Lotus Room. "Chenchen, wait. Slow down," he said breathlessly. "What phoenix are you talking about?"
"Soh, didn't you know? The spirit you attended to last night was actually the Spirit of the Phoenix! I heard from Minseok who heard from Junmyeon who heard from Yubaba's assistant Sehun that the Phoenix was pleased with your service." Chenchen took a short breath before continuing excitedly. "And you know what that means?"
"What?"
"Seriously, Soh, you should get out more." They turned a corner and from afar, Sogogi could see the frog spirits lined up outside the Lotus Room. "That means not only do we get gold... You might get the last feather!"
He was still so perplexed by what his friend was saying. Gold. Phoenix. Last feather. It was all so confusing. "Stop!" he said desperately. "Please, Chenchen."
His friend finally stopped running. The mouse spirit faced him and asked worriedly, "Are you alright?"
"I am. I just," he answered haltingly. "Whatever it is they want to give me, I don't want it."
"Are you crazy?! Why not?"
He didn't know why. He just felt uneasy and troubled when he was in the tall spirit's presence. The Phoenix? Soh didn't want anything more to do with him. It took him some time last night before he was able to get the image of the spirit out of his head and finally fall into an exhausted sleep.
"What are you two doing standing here?" They both glanced up to find Aniyaku scowling at them. "You have kept our important visitors waiting. This will not be overlooked. I'll see you both at the roof later. Now go!" the frog spirit said before he shoved them both forward.
Soh held onto Chenchen's hand and squeezed it reassuringly, even if he felt nervous himself. A few more steps and they were in front if the Lotus Room. The human boy could hear the other servers talking not too kindly about him. He chose to ignore them and instead prepared himself for what was to come.
"Time Master Tao and The Great Phoenix! The server, Soh, is now here!" a booming voice announced.
"Enter."
The doors slid open and Soh felt a push from behind before the doors closed once again, leaving him alone to face whoever was inside the room.
"Come forward."
Sogogi saw the Time Spirit sitting on the far side of the room. He took off his cloak and was now just in a deep red shirt and slim black trousers, making him look even younger.
"Stop with the mysterious voice, Tao. You're scaring the poor child," said a familiar voice and it was then that Soh saw the one they call Phoenix, leaning against a narrow pillar, watching him.
The tall individual looked entirely different from the spirit he bathed yesterday. It was only at this time that Soh got to see him properly. His hair was gathered behind him with a strap of leather, only a few wisps left to float and frame his face. And what a face it was.
Eyebrows a shade darker than his hair arched over large golden brown eyes. A slightly prominent nose and full lips that curved into a roguish grin. He also had rather large ears but they did nothing to deter from handsomeness of the Phoenix's visage.
He was still so very tall, Soh thought. His frame was on the slender side but he still appeared muscular. The Phoenix was currently wearing the Bathhouse's white robe but it looked good on him, the whiteness contrasting spectacularly with the flame colored hair.
"You don't have to look so surprised, little one. I do clean up nicely, if I do say so myself," the Phoenix teased.
Soh didn't know how to respond. Thankfully, the Time Spirit saved him from having to. "Phoenix, get on with it," he said before giving a long-suffering sigh.
"Fine." The taller of the two straightened from his position and began to advance towards Soh.
The server felt apprehensive. He was once again the recipient of that stare and he felt the spirit looking into his soul as if he knew the real Sogogi. He took a step back but his foot touched air. He glanced down and to his shock he was floating!
He let out a scared squeak. "Let me down!"
Phoenix rolled his eyes as he stood in front of him. "Be quiet, human. It's to stop you from running away. You're always running away." Soh was so high up, the spirit had to look up at him, the top of his red head level with the server's chin. "And you are small. I didn't want to have to bend down to do this."
Soh watched with rounded eyes as the Phoenix placed the side of his face against his chest. His heart leaped to his throat and he couldn't breathe. Soh couldn't bring himself to touch him and push his head away, though. He was too startled to do anything but watch helplessly as the Phoenix press closer against him.
Warm, he thought. So warm.
The taller male finally pulled back but before he let the human go, he gazed up and searched into Sogogi's eyes. Soh was too distracted by the fire he thought he saw in the other's eyes that he didn't notice he was already on the ground.
"You may leave," the Phoenix whispered.
Was that it? Was it done?
"Go now."
As if awakened from a trance, Soh didn't waste time and immediately ran out of the room, never looking back even once. He ran until his heart felt like it would burst, ran until he couldn't feel the warmth the Phoenix left behind inside his chest anymore.
But why? Why did it seem like it was just the beginning?
If Tao found out what he was doing, Phoenix knew the Great Spirit wouldn't approve. His friend would probably think he was losing his mind. And maybe he was.
That was the only reason he could think of to justify him peeking through the windows and looking for one human boy with every intention of kidnapping him for the day.
Yesterday he listened to the human's heart and found out his deepest desire. He looked into his eyes, burrowed into his soul, and Phoenix was now obligated to grant the wish he saw in Sogogi’s heart. He knew he had to - it was the law of their world. But he somehow felt reluctant to do it.
Sogogi wanted to return home. That was what Phoenix saw. The human wanted to go back to his life in the human world. Soh may not know it right now for he was under the spell of the witch but one word from Phoenix and the boy could have his wish fulfilled.
That didn't sit too well with Phoenix, though. He had already decided that he would stay at the Bathhouse for a fortnight, waiting for the Day of the Red Sun when he would have to end this lifetime. What was he to do here without the human to play with?
So he told himself, what was fourteen days? Surely, he could amuse himself with the server boy before he granted his wish. It wouldn't hurt anybody. He'd have his entertainment and the human would have his wish at the end of two weeks. A happy ending for everyone.
He scanned the sleeping quarters once again aided by the rays of the afternoon sun. It was difficult to find the small boy in a room full of sleeping bodies from where he was lurking.
It couldn't be helped. Phoenix quietly slid the window open and flew inside, careful not to wake up the spirits while he was hovering over them. He finally found a small figure huddled near the corner of the room. Phoenix lips split into a broad grin when he saw the tiny feet peeking from under the blanket.
He flew closer and carefully scooped the boy into his arms. He paused a bit when the boy let out small whimpering noises. Phoenix gathered him closer against his chest to muffle the sounds before he quickly raced out the window.
He flew further and further away from the Bathhouse until it was but a small dot in the middle of the sea. A strong wind blew against his face and played with the dark locks of his unsuspecting burden. Phoenix let the soft hair caress his jaw as he tucked the boy's head under his chin.
It was an unfamiliar feeling, wanting to have someone--much less this human--closer to him. It was strange how he wanted to feel the other's warmth to drive away the cold when he could easily adjust his body's temperature to get warm. It was as if the human emitted a different kind of heat that could reach deep inside him, the only part of Phoenix that he couldn't warm himself. He shook his head and blamed his fanciful thoughts on not getting enough sleep last night.
It was some time before they arrived at a small land in the North called Polar. What was amazing about the island was the whole of it lights up every night, like a beacon at sea, due to the fireflies that come out at sunset. Phoenix wanted to see which would glow brighter: the fireflies or the human boy's eyes.
He went on to find the perfect place for them to stay. Phoenix chose a spot under the shade of an old tree. He sat down and gently placed Sogogi across his lap. The spirit smirked when the boy cuddled closer to him. He was honestly surprised to know that the young server could sleep so soundly. Although, the smirk was replaced by a frown when he realized the reason why Soh could sleep like the dead.
Phoenix cradled a smooth cheek with a hand. Are you so tired?
Sunset wasn't until a few more hours. He took off his burgundy cloak and covered the human with it. He leaned his head against the trunk and watched the boy sleep. Rest, little one.
He was awakened by a scream.
Phoenix opened his eyes to a purple sky and a horrified looking boy pointing at him. "Hello?"
Another scream. "You! Why are you here? Why am I here? Where is here? Where?!"
Phoenix winced at the shrill sound of the other's voice. "We are on an island called Polar. I am here because I want to be. You are here because I want you to be."
"What? You can't just take me to places because you want to!" the boy admonished, in his anxiety forgetting who he was speaking to. "How did we even get here? Do you have a boat?" Soh glanced about, panicked. "I don't see a boat."
"I carried you here."
"You walked on water?" the shorter male asked disbelievingly.
Phoenix burst out laughing. "There's this thing called flying."
Sogogi's eyes rounded. "We... flew? We--" The human slumped down on the grass and closed his eyes tightly. "This isn't happening. I'm just dreaming. But why is the Phoenix Spirit with me? This isn't a dream then. It's more like a nightmare--"
"Hey," Phoenix protested. He stood up and poked the server's forehead with a finger. "If I'm in it then it's definitely the best dream you'll ever get."
Soh opened his eyes. The spirit paused at the helplessness he saw there. "Please."
Phoenix sobered and held out his hand. "Come. Trust me."
He thought the human wouldn't take it but Soh surprised him by holding onto his hand and hoisting himself up. The boy looked at him expectantly. Phoenix held on to his slender digits as he guided them down a path towards the center of the island. The sun had almost set and the place was slowly coming alive.
They reached the center just in time. The shorter boy gasped in wonder as the fireflies lit up, one by one, hundreds by hundreds, thousands by thousands until the whole island was alight. "This is--"
"Amazing? I know," he finished for him.
Phoenix watched Soh spin around slowly--his lips turned up at the corners, gaze following the flight of the fireflies. His heart thudded fast and there was an unexplainable ache in his chest but he still looked on.
Feeling his stare, the boy stopped moving and stared back. The wondrous expression on his face was replaced by genuine curiosity. "Why did you bring me here?"
"I just wanted to find out something for myself," he shrugged.
He tried for nonchalance but he didn't think it worked because Soh was serious when he asked, "And? Did you find it?"
Phoenix, for an instant, let himself get lost in those bright eyes. "Yes, I did."
The young server gave a nod. "Then Time Spirit's friend... Can you take me back now?"
The boy touched his arm. Phoenix saw his own life flash before him and he suddenly felt sad. A thousand years wasted.
For the second time, he held out his hand. "Let's go."
"Uh, I still don't see any boat," the boy said, breaking the solemn atmosphere that surrounded them.
"There is no boat," he replied.
"Then how are we going to go back to the Bathhouse?"
He held on to the boy's arm. "The same way we got here. We fly."
Soh swallowed audibly. "But I can't."
"You don't have to worry about a thing. You just have to hold on real tight." Without warning, he wrapped his arms around the shorter boy's waist and propelled them upward. He could barely breathe with the death-hold Soh had around his neck but he thought it felt nice when the boy buried his face against his neck.
"I think I'm too young to die," Sogogi muttered, face still hidden.
The spirit wished there were a little more stars out that night so he could see the human clearly. "I won't drop you."
"No. But I'm already late for work. Aniyaku will kill me."
"I'll take care of it," he murmured against the other's hair. He could feel the boy shiver in his embrace and Phoenix began to think of impossible things.
They reached the topmost balcony of the Bathhouse at half past seven. Phoenix knew he should feel guilty for taking Sogogi away for too long but he wasn't sorry at all for he had learned something new today. He had always thought that the fireflies of Polar were the brightest things in the Realm.
But now he knew they weren't. They didn't compare to this human's eyes at all.
He let Soh down gently onto the wooden floor and was about to leave him when he was stopped by a hand on his robe. He turned back to see the boy looking up at him and he once again found himself unsettled.
"Time Spirit's friend--"
"You may call me Phoenix."
"Phoenix," Soh said timidly, "Thank you for the reward."
"I haven't given you one yet."
The boy appeared stumped. "That trip wasn't the reward? Then what was that?"
Phoenix shrugged. "I was bored."
"You were bored?!"
The spirit could see the human was getting riled. Now was the time to escape. "Yes, little one. Bored." He waved cheerfully before flying away. "See you tomorrow!"
"No, you won't!" he heard the server shout after him.
Yes, I will.
Soh wished he could go back to the night Chenchen dragged him out of the Bathhouse to wait for the arrival of the Time Spirit. He would have refused more firmly and wouldn't have let his curiosity get the better of him.
But he couldn't turn back the time no matter how hard he wished, so here he was standing on the topmost balcony of the Bathhouse for the seventh day in a row, waiting to be 'kidnapped' by the most obnoxious spirit he knew.
It was either this--waiting awake and prepared--or waking up in his sleep clothes to unfamiliar surroundings again (which already happened twice). Out of these two options, it was obvious he would choose the former. The Phoenix wasn't one to actually ask for permission from anybody before carrying them off to heaven knows where. He just did what he wanted. And apparently that was to island hop across the Realm with Sogogi in tow.
They've already gone to the Caves of the Shadow Scorpions, the Wolf Mountains, the Unicorn Plains, the Great Eastern Lake, and a whole lot more places that Soh didn't even realize existed. He couldn't say he didn't enjoy the outings though, even if they did cut on his badly needed sleep.
Besides his annoying habit of pretending to drop Soh whenever they were flying, Phoenix, he grudgingly admitted, was a great companion. He also had this way of looking and smiling at you that would make you hard-pressed not to give in and feel as if you actually wanted what he was forcing you to do.
Soh could feel the wind shift and he knew Phoenix was near. Sure enough, a few seconds and the tall male was perched on the railing, grinning at him. "Ready?"
"Do I have a choice?" he mumbled under his breath. He raised his arms and waited for the spirit to lift him up but Phoenix remained unmoving.
"I apologize if I made you feel that way," the spirit said somberly. "I want you to know that you have a choice. If you don't want to see me, you just have to tell me and I'll go."
If Soh didn't know better, he would say that the Phoenix was serious and that he was truly hurt by the boy's unspoken accusation. But the thing was, after more than a week with him, he did know better, especially that mischievous slant to the spirit's lips. "Oh, really now."
The flame-haired spirit laughed and this time when Soh held out his arms, Phoenix drew him against his chest and carried him away.
It ends up always being after noon when they leave. Soh absently ran his hand through the soft hair on the spirit's nape. He didn't see how the other's eyes softened when he looked down at the human boy. Soh liked how the light caressed Phoenix's reddish hair, making it appear as if they really were flames and a touch might burn you. Except they never did.
"If you're sleepy, you can rest your head on my shoulder," Phoenix said.
Soh did just that and he felt the arms around his waist tighten and pull him closer. He still was afraid of heights so it was a bit ridiculous how safe he felt when he was so high above the ground, he could almost touch the clouds.
"I was serious, though," the other said after a while. "You do have a choice."
"If I really do, then let me decide where we should go tomorrow." Soh couldn't believe those words left his mouth. "Uh--"
"Done," Phoenix answered with a chuckle.
Flustered and feeling out of place after practically ordering around a high ranking spirit, Soh tried to change the subject. "Where are you taking me this time?"
"Just somewhere near. I want to show you something I made."
They landed on a small island just a few kilometers east of the Bathhouse. There was nothing much there, as far as Soh could see, except for overgrown weeds and some trees -- nothing really interesting save for a bunch of driftwood and dried branches arranged in a circle in the middle of the island.
"How is it?" Phoenix asked from beside him. "How does it look?"
"It looks... interesting?" he answered. He wasn't certain what the spirit was asking.
"That's it? Just interesting?" Phoenix looked disappointed. "But I've been building it for weeks." After Sogogi's puzzled look, the spirit pouted. "Can't you see? It's my nest!"
"Your... nest?"
"Yes!" Phoenix flew into the middle of the 'nest' and spread his arms wide. "My nest."
"Oh, okay. Just like a bird. It's... yeah." Soh didn't know what else to say.
"I can fly but I'm not a bird!" The spirit said indignantly before he rolled his eyes at him. "I'm the Spirit of the Phoenix, Soh. I should have a nest."
"For what?" Soh asked. He thought the Phoenix and spirits like him lived like humans do. Why would he need a nest?
He saw the Phoenix open his mouth to reply but abruptly closed it again. "It doesn't matter. It's not important. Let's go."
The human felt bad. He sensed that he said something he shouldn't have. He could feel Phoenix withdraw from him even when he was holding him close throughout their flight back. The spirit didn't smile nor wave goodbye at him when he left, making Soh feel disappointed and at a loss.
No matter, he thought determinedly, whatever he did, he'd make up for it tomorrow. There’s always tomorrow.
PART II
Pairing/s: Baekhyun/Chanyeol
Rating: G
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Length: twoshot, 14,338wc
Description: Spirited Away!au (i.e. story is set in this world)
Summary: Sogogi didn’t expect his life to change so drastically with the arrival of the Time Spirit. He never imagined he’d discover adventure, happiness, and even love, but he did. Now he has to decide upon a choice--except... maybe it just isn't his choice to make at all.
an: originally written for sncj_bigbang and posted here. Thanks to the wonderful YOYA for making this art for me. ;;
an2: ALL THE THANKS TO THE BIGGEST BULLY minwhore who i disturbed out of the blue just so i could cry over this. ;; ILU.
The excitement was so palpable you could almost touch it. Everyone was abuzz. Frantic footsteps could be heard racing across the polished wooden floors as servers bumped into each other in their haste to get to their destinations. The Bathhouse had never been this alive.
There was only one person there who didn't seem to notice the charged energy filling the halls of the Bathhouse. Soh was too busy with his nightly chore of laundering all the used and dirty rags to bother questioning where all the servers were going. Although, the dark-haired boy couldn't help but look up from the cloth he was washing when he heard his name being called by a familiar voice. He squinted towards the direction the shouts were coming from and the corners of his thin lips turned up when he saw his friend, Chenchen, expertly skirting around the other workers to get to him.
"Soh!" the boy called out again. "Sogogi! Soh!"
He waited for his friend to reach his side before he answered. "Hey, slow down."
Chenchen clutched tightly at the sleeves of Soh's plain orange kimono before he anxiously said, "We can't slow down! Let's go!"
"Go where?" Sogogi asked but his overly enthusiastic friend didn't waste time in answering and just unceremoniously dragged him away.
It was a good thing that Chenchen was a mouse spirit and could find his way through the maze of bulky bodies crowding the entrance. Fortunately, Soh had a small frame, too, so he could squeeze through quite as easily as the other boy. They were both breathless and panting when they reached the bridge outside. Chenchen pulled him a little to the side, moving out of the way of the older workers.
There were a large number of servers outside but they were more organized. The crowd was parted in the middle as if making way for something. As per usual, two lines of female workers were standing on either side of the entrance. They were wearing flower-patterned yukatas and carrying brightly colored fans--small eyes lined with kohl and wide frog-like faces painted heavily--ready to welcome the customers.
However, tonight, Soh finally noticed that something was indeed different.
He glanced up the darkening sky then shifted his gaze towards the gaily lit entertainment district on the other side of the bridge. Soh's brows knotted. They appeared the same to him. He then looked at the gigantic Bathhouse soaring above the red bridge, bathed vermillion by the setting sun. The large metal chimney emitted the same black smoke it did every day while the same steam rose unending on the right side of the building. Everything was where it should be.
Except, there was something strange with the way the wind blew because... It didn't. Not even a small gust was present. In contrast to the beings milling about him, the night was so still it was as if it was holding its breath in anticipation for what was to come.
Soh felt a nudge to his side.
"When the guests arrive, bow low but be sure to show your face and get noticed, okay?" Chenchen whispered.
He looked at his friend questioningly. "What for? And why did you drag me out here? I still have to mop the floors and scrub the stairs and--"
"Shhh! Do you want them to hear and notice that you're out here? Do you want to be sent back inside?"
"But my work's inside," he replied in a hushed tone.
"No, you have to be here! He's coming. One of the most powerful spirits in the Realm is visiting the Bathhouse tonight!" Chenchen said excitedly.
"Who?"
"The Time Spirit!"
The Time Spirit? Soh frowned in thought.
The Bathhouse was known all over the Spirit World and beings from all four directions travel to the small island it was located on to recuperate and relax. They serve gods, spirits, and guardians--any and every creature in the Realm. As long as you have the gold to pay, the Bathhouse's large doors were open for you.
Soh thought of all the beings he had seen since he started working there. He had already laid eyes on the Earth Guardian and was surprised to see that he looked just like an ordinary boy not much older than him. He saw different river and water gods every day and he even caught sight of the legendary Black Dragon once. But he had never even heard of the Time Spirit.
"Should I know him?" he asked.
"Of course!" Chenchen sputtered. "The Time Spirit is like the spirit of all spirits! I even heard that Life and Death are scared of him and that's saying something. He has been here since the beginning. No. I think he is the beginning," his friend finished, eyes widening at his own realization.
"But how come I haven't heard of him before?"
"Because it's the first time he's coming here. That's why everyone is scrambling to get in front because it's an honor just to be in his presence. And I also heard that the Time Spirit is generous. Just think of all the gold he will give the one he bestows his favor on!"
Chenchen fixed his short-cropped hair and even patted his sharp eyebrows in place, "I have to look my best and you should, too, so he will pick us to serve him!"
Soh just smiled at the way his friend was primping himself. He knew no matter how much he fixed his appearance, he wouldn't get chosen. First of all, he was the youngest worker there--not even twenty summers old--and he didn't even have experience in serving and entertaining. He was always delegated to do the dirty work. Secondly, unlike all the other employees there who were reincarnated animal spirits, Soh was different. He was human and the only one left after the young girl, Sen, was set free six full moons ago.
There was no way he would get the favor of the Time Spirit. In this Realm, no one ever favored humans.
They heard the ringing of the town bell, signaling the arrival of the ferry that brought the guests to the island. Before long, Soh could see the procession of the new arrivals as the lanterns lining the main street glowed brighter.
"They're coming," the mouse spirit whispered, "Bow down."
Soh bent down and placed his slender hands above his knee, eyes still surreptitiously following the newcomers. There were about a dozen figures in black silk robes in front of the line. Spirits, he thought, based on the large white masks they were wearing. Each one of them had the symbol of a sand clock emblazoned on the front of their robes.
The progress was slow and Soh had a strong urge to crane his neck to peek over them and get a glimpse of the Spirit they were so obviously protecting. He gave in and he caught sight of inky black hair and scarlet robes worn by a tall figure. Was that the Time Spirit?
Soh felt another nudge against his side and saw Chenchen anxiously motioning for him to stoop lower. He reluctantly did as his friend wanted but not before he threw another quick glance at the imposing presence in the middle of the procession.
"The Great Time Spirit has arrived!" the manager announced and a hush fell over the crowd.
The Bathhouse owner, Yubaba, went in front and her large, wrinkly face split into a warm welcoming grin... or as welcoming as a sly witch--with inhumanly large figure as well as a huge and prominent crooked nose--could grin. Soh had always been wary of her. Yubaba was quite overbearing and intimidating.
And selfish--binding everyone here to her bathhouse forever unless they could miraculously recall their full names which she "stole" from them upon signing the contract. Soh had already lost hope in ever getting free. He had been here for so long; he couldn't even remember how many seasons have passed since he found himself lost in the Realm.
He was abruptly pulled from his thoughts when the spirits stopped by the entrance and moved aside to reveal their master. The red-robed individual stepped forward for everyone to see.
They said he was one of the first to exist in this World yet he was the very picture of beauty and youth. His peach colored skin had an ethereal glow. His raven hair set off his small, slanted eyes to perfection--the brown orbs reflecting centuries gone by.
He was magnificent.
"Welcome, Your Greatness," Yubaba said reverently before she bowed. Soh's jaw dropped. She had never done this before. His gaze returned to the Time Spirit to see his reaction but his attention was caught by a slight movement behind him. There was an even taller being standing a step away from Time Spirit's side.
Soh's eyes rounded upon seeing the mud and soot covering the figure's burgundy cloak. His head was under the hood of the robe and his face was concealed by shadows but Soh had an uncanny feeling that the mysterious being was staring straight back at him.
He quickly looked away but the feeling remained. His heart began to thump loud and fast. Soh huddled closer to his friend, convincing himself that he was just imagining things.
"Our doors are always open for the Great Time Spirit, Tao. We are at your service," Yubaba continued, gesturing towards the servers.
Tao gave her a nod.
"Let us all go inside then, Master Tao. We have the most luxurious of baths prepared for you and your company." Yubaba waved for the crowd to get out of the way as she led Tao through the entrance.
"I am not in need of a bath. Just a place to rest for the travel had been long and tedious. This place," Tao said as his gaze travelled up the imposing structure before him, “is quite far from our land."
Yubaba was quick to respond in her gravelly voice. "Of course we also have the best rooms fit for Your Greatness. I believe you will find that the long travel will be worth it."
The witch's smile froze, though, when she finally spotted the figure behind the Time Spirit. Tao probably noticed where she was looking at for he said, "Oh, someone else is in need of a bath. Have one prepared for my good friend."
At the mention of the word friend, everyone's gazes went to the hooded figure. Soh could hear the muted sounds of disgust and protests go through the servers at his appearance. He certainly does need a thorough bath to clean off the filth covering him.
"Of... course. Sure," Yubaba replied, her tone a little less confident.
Tao smiled in approval. The witch continued to lead them inside followed closely by the servers who were still eager to get the favor of the Time Spirit.
"Come on!" Chenchen said, grabbing onto Soh and trying to beat the others to the front.
"Do you know him?" Soh asked while being pushed and squished by the eager workers around him.
"I just told you he's the Time Spirit!" Chenchen answered distractedly, tiptoeing to see where they could squeeze through.
"No, not him. The other one. The one behind--"
His friend grimaced. "The dirty one? I don't know him. Oh, dear. I hope we won't be chosen to give the bath to that creature!" Chenchen saw an opening and pulled on Sogogi. With a forceful shove, they found themselves inside the Bathhouse, beside the watch stand by the entrance. Soh found the guests standing with Yubaba in the middle of the atrium.
"You can leave your friend to choose which tub he wants and my trusted workers will make sure to take care of him, Master Tao. I can then guide you and the rest of your party up at our best room on the second floor. Shall we?" Yubaba said graciously.
The Time Spirit proceeded to walk towards the elevators especially made for important guests. Yubaba threw the bath's assistant manager a glance, ordering him silently to take care of the filthy spirit, before following in the Time Spirit's wake. All the other servers moved to follow once again but the corridors were narrow so it was more difficult to squeeze through.
Soh held onto Chenchen tightly but he found himself being suddenly picked up from the collar. He looked up to see, Aniyaku, the assistant manager holding onto him. "Where do you think you're going?"
He couldn't find his voice fast enough to reply. Aniyaku dragged him back towards the center of the atrium. Sogogi struggled to get free but he was too thin and small compared to the frog spirit holding onto him. He made one last desperate glance towards the direction Chenchen disappeared to. Was he going to get punished for skipping his duties?
He heard the other workers snicker at him before shuffling toward the employee elevators to go after the Time Spirit's group. Soh closed his eyes and resigned himself to another of Aniyaku's unfair punishments. He just wished that it wasn't the one he gave him two moons ago. He still remembered the terror of almost falling off the brick roof after the assistant manager told him to scrub them clean. It took Soh more than an hour just to climb there as his limbs were shaking uncontrollably. He had always hated heights.
He was surprised though when Aniyaku dropped him in the middle of the room, near the biggest tub inside the bathhouse. Soh felt a wave of relief. Was this the punishment? Cleaning the large tub would be a piece of cake.
"Sorry for the wait Time Master's friend," the manager said over Sogogi's head. "But here is our Soh, the best bath server we have."
Wait. Time Master's friend? Best bath server? Soh felt dread settle in his stomach and he was afraid to even turn around. He felt eyes boring into the back of his head causing his knees to weaken. No. Please no.
"Soh, you take care of this fellow and I'll go assist Yubaba," Aniyaku said with a wide grin that made his frog face even uglier. He sounded kind but Soh could see the threatening glint in his large bulging eyes.
With a last smirk, Aniyaku left, leaving Soh alone with the scary hooded spirit behind him. He heard footsteps walking away from him and despite his anxiety, Soh looked back to see the filthy spirit stride towards the cubicle housing the large wooden tub.
He would rather scrub the roof again than assist him but he couldn't do anything except to trail after the spirit. No other server was around. They were all probably at the second floor with the Time Spirit, Soh thought grudgingly. He paused mid-step though when he remembered that he wasn't in possession of any bath token. He needed it to request for the medicinal soak that would help clean the somber creature ahead of him.
He was about to turn to get some but then he recalled Aniyaku already went to attend to Yubaba. Soh had to suppress a groan. All he could use was the basic bath token that could be found in every cubicle--the one for water. He reluctantly continued to trudge after the spirit, trying to think of what to do.
He supposed water would suffice. He just had to scrub the guest thoroughly and hope he didn’t hurt him in the process. He doubted he wouldn't though as he watched the tall figure climb slowly into the circular tub. Mud caked around his feet and slim ankles. It would take all his strength to get all of it off.
Soh wanted to just slump down and cry but he was never one to give in to obstacles like this. He had learned to toughen up since the other workers tended to bully him into doing their jobs. If they so much as saw a sign of weakness from him, they would get more devious and think of more ways to make him suffer for being different from them.
I can do this, he told himself. Sogogi, you can do this.
He rolled up the sleeves of his kimono close to his elbows and walked purposefully forward. His footsteps faltered a bit however when he saw that the spirit had let down the hood and was staring at him once again. It didn't help Soh's confidence to see that the spirit's hair was long and as filthy as the rest of him. It was so dirty; he couldn't even guess what color it was. The poor human had never seen a creature as grimy as him.
The sooner you get started, the sooner you'll finish. Come on, Soh. You can do it.
Still feeling the weight of the other's stare, Soh took the bath token hanging beside the cubicle entrance and marched towards the small hatch in the wooden wall. He opened it and attached the token to the stretchable purple string inside before he pulled.
Sogogi immediately ran to the wooden pipe beside the hatch and pulled the hanging rope affixed to it to let the incoming water spill into the tub. He somehow felt comforted at the sound of the cold water rushing down the pipe.
Expecting that the water was enough to fill the tub, he let go of the rope and the pipe went back to its upright position. He spun around, intending to start with the bath but he was shocked to see that the tub was empty except for the Time Spirit's friend standing in the middle. His eyes widened in confusion. Where had all the water gone?
He returned to the pipe and pulled it down again, making sure that the mouth was directly on top of the tub. He almost slid down the side of the tub in surprise, though, when he saw the water turn into steam the moment it touched the spirit's cloak. "You're so hot!" he exclaimed.
He didn't know why--there wasn't any sound at all but Soh could almost hear the other laughing at him. He pulled on the rope harder to make sure that the pipe didn’t return to its original position and then went on to jump into the tub. Embarrassed and more than a little bit indignant at being laughed at, he determinedly marched towards the spirit. There was no one around save the two of them but, even though he was still more than a bit frightened of the tall being, he was resolved to finish this task.
The spirit stood straighter as Soh came closer. On his way, he snatched a small cloth from the side of the tub. He stopped only when he was a foot away from the tall male. "I'm just going to--"
Sogogi raised his hand--the one holding the damp cloth--and touched it tentatively to the other's face. He gave out a yelp at the contact. The spirit was indeed very hot. What if he burned? His apprehension increased but no, he wouldn't let this stop him. What to do?
Soh surprised even himself when he took hold of the spirit's shirt and pulled him directly under the water pipe. They were instantly surrounded by steam, stinging his eyes and clouding his vision. But the brazen move worked. The continuous flow of water over the spirit's head made his temperature drop bit by bit.
With the water now slowly filling up the tub, he could now start scrubbing on the Time Spirit's friend. Taking a fortifying breath, he held on to the other's arm and began to scrub on it. Thankfully, the spirit didn't offer any resistance although Sogogi could still feel his stare heavy on his face.
He was now sweating profusely with the effort and the heat that emanated from the spirit but Soh continued with scrubbing the arm clean. After a few more strokes, Soh was awarded the sight of fair skin under all the soot. This only made him more determined as he rubbed harder, brows knotted in concentration.
An arm. Two arms. The neck. The sharp collarbones. He went on to wipe at the other's face again, feeling more confident as more of the soot and mud were washed away. He transferred his attention to the shoulder length hair. He had to tiptoe to reach the top of his head since the spirit was really tall. Locks the color of fire flowed through Soh's slim fingers. But he didn't even notice how glorious it was, too intent he was on cleaning the spirit.
Satisfied with his work on the other's head, he proceeded to clean lower. Soh absentmindedly took off the spirit's robes and began to wash his chest. He was too focused on his task to notice the smile lurking on the spirit's lips as he looked down on the young server.
Water spilled over the sides of the tub. Soh could feel his arm muscles protesting from all the cleaning he was doing. Still he went on to unfasten the spirit's trousers, frowning when the top knot would not budge.
He heard a choked laugh. His heart slammed on his chest and his hands froze on the fastenings. Sogogi stopped breathing.
"I think I can handle that myself," said a deep, husky voice that sent shivers down his spine. He looked up and saw large golden brown eyes peering at him before they dipped to where Soh's hands were.
It was only then that Sogogi realized what he was doing... where he was touching. With a squeak, he let go and backed away, tripping on his own feet and landing with a splash in the tub. He tried to stand up but only succeeded to kick the drain plug. He watched helplessly as the water swirled down the drain and to make matters worse the pipe chose that moment to return to its original position, stopping the incoming flow of water.
In less than a few seconds, Soh was left in the middle of the empty tub, soaked and gaping at an equally wet, very amused half-naked spirit. The taller male took a step forward and as if Soh wasn't rattled enough, the stubborn knot gave and the pants fell.
Make that fully naked spirit then.
He watched with ill-concealed glee as the short boy scooted away from him. His small hand was clamped over his eyes while the other was held up as if to stop him from getting any closer. The taller male's grin widened. This should be fun.
He advanced towards the boy, kicking off the heavy trousers that trapped his ankles. He saw the young server peek between his fingers and heard another squeak when the short boy saw that he was coming nearer. In no time at all, the server reached the edge of the tub and had nowhere else to go.
With complete disregard for his nudity, the spirit walked closer until he was exactly in front of the young man. He bent down and pried the boy's hand away from his face. He wanted to see the bright eyes that looked at him so curiously during the procession. He was able to pull the hand away but the boy's eyelids remained tightly shut much to his disappointment. His gaze dropped down to the server's trembling mouth. The boy really was nervous.
He didn't want that so he let go of the other's hand and stepped back. "I just wanted to get the wash cloth, you know," he said.
The boy's hand lifted and held out the small cloth to him. Immediately after he had it in his grip, the server hurriedly climbed over the side of the tub to escape. The taller male was torn between exasperation and amusement at the eagerness of the boy to get away from him. "What was the name of the manager again?" he mused loudly. "Should I tell him that his 'best bath server' left me to fend for myself?"
At the mention of the manager, the young server's footsteps halted. He could see his thin shoulders tense.
"You said... You said you can handle it yourself," the boy replied, almost accusingly.
"Yes, but I didn't say you could go."
The server's fists clenched before he turned back, eyes still closed. "I apologize, master," he said looking anything but apologetic. "What else can I do for you?"
The spirit studied the boy's face. He had even features--a straight enough nose, thin lips, smooth cheeks and a narrow chin. He wasn't unattractive, he thought. He just looked plain. His eyes were a different story though. That was why the spirit wanted to see them again. He wanted to make sure that he didn't just imagine the dazzling light he saw reflected from their depths.
"You can open your eyes and look at me."
The boy's lips thinned in dismay. "Are you... decent?" A blush stole over the boy's cheeks. He let out a laugh that made the young server frown. "Is that a yes?"
Relenting, the taller male picked up his robe and wrapped it around his waist. "Yes."
The boy cautiously opened his eyes.
It was strange how his breath seemed to catch when the server gave him the full impact of his gaze. He was right. Those eyes were marvelous and unlike any other that he had seen in the Realm. Then it hit him.
"You're human," he said amazement. "What are you doing in our world?"
"I--" The boy paused and his brows knotted. "I'm not entirely sure."
"You're not sure?" He went down the wooden steps beside the tub and stood in front of the boy. "Soh, isn't it?"
"Soh, Sogogi, yes. That's my name," the other replied tonelessly.
It wasn't, he thought. The spark in the boy's irises dimmed when he said the name. So that was the kind of spell this child was under.
"I thought you were a girl," he remarked, hoping that he'd get the glow back.
"I'm not!" And there was that flash again.
"Isn't that a female server's uniform?" The spirit said, gesturing to the orange kimono the boy was wearing. "The other males are wearing the blue one."
The server looked away and he could see the boy blushing once more. "I--These are the only ones that fit."
"Ah, yes. Because you're so tiny." For some reason he wanted to rile the boy. "Just like a girl."
"I'm not the one with long curly hair," the boy answered insolently.
"Touché." He laughed. Unexpectedly, the server grinned.
He didn't notice that he was staring until he saw the boy's smile disappear.
"Time Spirit's... friend. I think your bath is done. I do have a lot of things to do and I just have to... I have go." Soh gave a quick bow before beating a hasty retreat.
"Wait! What about your reward?" he called out, unwilling to let the boy leave. But Sogogi didn't even turn to look back. He was left there alone and quite confused as to what happened.
He shrugged and went to put on the white robe placed on top of a low table. If Soh had been able to finish bathing the spirit, he would have seen the marks on the male's back before it was covered up. Two gold and crimson colored wings like wide tongues of flame licking across his broad shoulders and down his back. The brand of the Phoenix Spirit.
"Time Spirit's friend?"
Phoenix turned to see Bathhouse manager by the door. He could see the amazement in his gaze as it travelled from his head to his toe. He had an urge to strike a pose for the horrid creature just for effect.
"Where's Master Tao?" he asked.
"Ah, yes. He wants to see you in the Lotus Room. Please follow me."
He was directed towards an elevator. They alighted on the second floor where he was then ushered down two corridors. Phoenix could see the crowd gathered outside the large doors bearing the lotus emblem. He found himself looking for a mop of short chestnut brown hair even though he knew he wouldn't be there.
The doors opened and he was asked to enter before they were closed behind him. Inside was Tao, lounging on his side across a luxurious midnight blue carpet spread over the tatami floor. Black lacquered columns framed the large room along with rice paper painted with colorful flower patterns. "You look right at home."
The Time Spirit raised a brow. "You look clean."
Phoenix chuckled. "I do."
"I told you the bath would do you good." Tao motioned for him to sit. "Also, you already found him."
"Found who?" Phoenix sat cross legged across from the other.
"The creature you would give your last feather to." Tao sat up. "I thought you'd never find him."
Had he really found the recipient of the Wish? His mind went back to his encounter with the human boy. "How did you know?"
"You look unburdened," the Great Spirit answered. "It's great to know. You only have a short time left in this cycle and it would have been a waste if nobody got to receive it."
"Were there times when I didn't give anybody the last feather?" Phoenix asked, genuinely curious. Tao has been with him since the beginning of his first one thousand years. This would be his 812th according to his friend. It was unfortunate though, that when he ends up being reborn, he loses his memories of the past lifetime. He wouldn't exactly know anything except for what the Time Spirit decides to tell him. Which depended on his moods much to the Phoenix's chagrin.
"Yes. Twice. First one was in your sixteenth millennia; there was a war in the realm and you were too busy defending our territories to bother looking for one. The second was on your 37th," Tao explained.
"Was there another war?"
"No, you were just too lazy that time."
Phoenix leaned backward until he was sprawled on the floor, gazing up at the ceiling. His eyes traced the intricate patterns of lotus flowers painted on it. "Did you know I would find him here? Was that why you forced me to go even if I didn't want to?"
"No. I didn't. For countless lifetimes I have endured the same filthy Phoenix spirit before he turns to ashes. This time I just really wanted you to be bathed. You stink," the Time spirit answered quite seriously.
"Thank you, Your Benevolence," he said in between laughs.
"Since you're all clean, we will set out for home tomorrow." Tao arranged his robes so they fell more comfortably around him. "Have you granted the Wish yet?"
"The boy ran away."
Tao sighed. "Alright, I'll allow you some time to give it to him tomorrow. Then we leave."
Chanyeol looked intently at his friend. "Since I only have a fortnight left... Can we perhaps spend it here?"
"For what reason?" the Time Spirit asked.
"No reason. I just felt like it."
The other male studied him and Phoenix kept his face impassive. He wasn't sure how to answer his friend about his sudden reluctance to go. He didn't even know the cause himself.
After a few moments, Tao nodded in assent. Phoenix smiled in gratitude before returning to his study of the ceiling. But, this time, instead of the flowers, what he saw were a pair of sparkling brown eyes.
"Soh, wake up!" a voice screeched into his ear.
He groaned and mumbled a no before he buried his head against his hard pillow.
"Sogogi, you wake up this instant!" he heard before he was rudely shaken awake.
He tried to sit up but his head was too heavy and his muscles ached so much that he just fell onto his back again. Soh was tired after bathing the spirit and finishing his usual workload last night. He just wanted a few more minutes of rest. He turned on his side and pulled the blanket higher on his shoulders.
"If you don't wake up, Yubaba will have your hide. And mine, too! So. Wake. Up. Now!"
Soh felt the blanket being snatched away from him. He frowned and opened an eye. He saw Chenchen's face close to his, glaring at him. "What?" he asked groggily.
"Wake up, Soh!" the mouse spirit said a little frantic now. "The Time Spirit is looking for you and that was fifteen minutes ago! If we don't get there, Aniyaku would surely punish us."
Hearing the worried tone in his friend's voice, Soh forced himself to get up. "But why would the Time Spirit look for me?" he asked, confused.
"We don't have time! Wash your face and fix yourself! Come on!"
Soh was dragged from his quilt and made to change into his work clothes. It was still so early, based from the rays of the sun slanting through the glass windows. Usually, the space was supposed to be cramped from numerous male servers sharing the same room. However, this morning, Soh noticed that the quarters was empty save for him and Chenchen.
"Where's everybody?"
They were running towards the service elevators before his friend replied. "Everyone's at the second floor, waiting for you."
"Huh?"
He pushed Soh inside the elevator carriage before going in. Chenchen gave him a pout. "You didn't tell me that you bathed the Phoenix!"
"Aniyaku forced me to and--What phoenix?"
"Oh, merciful heavens, I'm so happy for you!" His friend gave him a hug. "Think of the gold, Soh!"
There was a ding when the elevator stopped. Chenchen tugged on his arm as they made their way towards the Lotus Room. "Chenchen, wait. Slow down," he said breathlessly. "What phoenix are you talking about?"
"Soh, didn't you know? The spirit you attended to last night was actually the Spirit of the Phoenix! I heard from Minseok who heard from Junmyeon who heard from Yubaba's assistant Sehun that the Phoenix was pleased with your service." Chenchen took a short breath before continuing excitedly. "And you know what that means?"
"What?"
"Seriously, Soh, you should get out more." They turned a corner and from afar, Sogogi could see the frog spirits lined up outside the Lotus Room. "That means not only do we get gold... You might get the last feather!"
He was still so perplexed by what his friend was saying. Gold. Phoenix. Last feather. It was all so confusing. "Stop!" he said desperately. "Please, Chenchen."
His friend finally stopped running. The mouse spirit faced him and asked worriedly, "Are you alright?"
"I am. I just," he answered haltingly. "Whatever it is they want to give me, I don't want it."
"Are you crazy?! Why not?"
He didn't know why. He just felt uneasy and troubled when he was in the tall spirit's presence. The Phoenix? Soh didn't want anything more to do with him. It took him some time last night before he was able to get the image of the spirit out of his head and finally fall into an exhausted sleep.
"What are you two doing standing here?" They both glanced up to find Aniyaku scowling at them. "You have kept our important visitors waiting. This will not be overlooked. I'll see you both at the roof later. Now go!" the frog spirit said before he shoved them both forward.
Soh held onto Chenchen's hand and squeezed it reassuringly, even if he felt nervous himself. A few more steps and they were in front if the Lotus Room. The human boy could hear the other servers talking not too kindly about him. He chose to ignore them and instead prepared himself for what was to come.
"Time Master Tao and The Great Phoenix! The server, Soh, is now here!" a booming voice announced.
"Enter."
The doors slid open and Soh felt a push from behind before the doors closed once again, leaving him alone to face whoever was inside the room.
"Come forward."
Sogogi saw the Time Spirit sitting on the far side of the room. He took off his cloak and was now just in a deep red shirt and slim black trousers, making him look even younger.
"Stop with the mysterious voice, Tao. You're scaring the poor child," said a familiar voice and it was then that Soh saw the one they call Phoenix, leaning against a narrow pillar, watching him.
The tall individual looked entirely different from the spirit he bathed yesterday. It was only at this time that Soh got to see him properly. His hair was gathered behind him with a strap of leather, only a few wisps left to float and frame his face. And what a face it was.
Eyebrows a shade darker than his hair arched over large golden brown eyes. A slightly prominent nose and full lips that curved into a roguish grin. He also had rather large ears but they did nothing to deter from handsomeness of the Phoenix's visage.
He was still so very tall, Soh thought. His frame was on the slender side but he still appeared muscular. The Phoenix was currently wearing the Bathhouse's white robe but it looked good on him, the whiteness contrasting spectacularly with the flame colored hair.
"You don't have to look so surprised, little one. I do clean up nicely, if I do say so myself," the Phoenix teased.
Soh didn't know how to respond. Thankfully, the Time Spirit saved him from having to. "Phoenix, get on with it," he said before giving a long-suffering sigh.
"Fine." The taller of the two straightened from his position and began to advance towards Soh.
The server felt apprehensive. He was once again the recipient of that stare and he felt the spirit looking into his soul as if he knew the real Sogogi. He took a step back but his foot touched air. He glanced down and to his shock he was floating!
He let out a scared squeak. "Let me down!"
Phoenix rolled his eyes as he stood in front of him. "Be quiet, human. It's to stop you from running away. You're always running away." Soh was so high up, the spirit had to look up at him, the top of his red head level with the server's chin. "And you are small. I didn't want to have to bend down to do this."
Soh watched with rounded eyes as the Phoenix placed the side of his face against his chest. His heart leaped to his throat and he couldn't breathe. Soh couldn't bring himself to touch him and push his head away, though. He was too startled to do anything but watch helplessly as the Phoenix press closer against him.
Warm, he thought. So warm.
The taller male finally pulled back but before he let the human go, he gazed up and searched into Sogogi's eyes. Soh was too distracted by the fire he thought he saw in the other's eyes that he didn't notice he was already on the ground.
"You may leave," the Phoenix whispered.
Was that it? Was it done?
"Go now."
As if awakened from a trance, Soh didn't waste time and immediately ran out of the room, never looking back even once. He ran until his heart felt like it would burst, ran until he couldn't feel the warmth the Phoenix left behind inside his chest anymore.
But why? Why did it seem like it was just the beginning?
If Tao found out what he was doing, Phoenix knew the Great Spirit wouldn't approve. His friend would probably think he was losing his mind. And maybe he was.
That was the only reason he could think of to justify him peeking through the windows and looking for one human boy with every intention of kidnapping him for the day.
Yesterday he listened to the human's heart and found out his deepest desire. He looked into his eyes, burrowed into his soul, and Phoenix was now obligated to grant the wish he saw in Sogogi’s heart. He knew he had to - it was the law of their world. But he somehow felt reluctant to do it.
Sogogi wanted to return home. That was what Phoenix saw. The human wanted to go back to his life in the human world. Soh may not know it right now for he was under the spell of the witch but one word from Phoenix and the boy could have his wish fulfilled.
That didn't sit too well with Phoenix, though. He had already decided that he would stay at the Bathhouse for a fortnight, waiting for the Day of the Red Sun when he would have to end this lifetime. What was he to do here without the human to play with?
So he told himself, what was fourteen days? Surely, he could amuse himself with the server boy before he granted his wish. It wouldn't hurt anybody. He'd have his entertainment and the human would have his wish at the end of two weeks. A happy ending for everyone.
He scanned the sleeping quarters once again aided by the rays of the afternoon sun. It was difficult to find the small boy in a room full of sleeping bodies from where he was lurking.
It couldn't be helped. Phoenix quietly slid the window open and flew inside, careful not to wake up the spirits while he was hovering over them. He finally found a small figure huddled near the corner of the room. Phoenix lips split into a broad grin when he saw the tiny feet peeking from under the blanket.
He flew closer and carefully scooped the boy into his arms. He paused a bit when the boy let out small whimpering noises. Phoenix gathered him closer against his chest to muffle the sounds before he quickly raced out the window.
He flew further and further away from the Bathhouse until it was but a small dot in the middle of the sea. A strong wind blew against his face and played with the dark locks of his unsuspecting burden. Phoenix let the soft hair caress his jaw as he tucked the boy's head under his chin.
It was an unfamiliar feeling, wanting to have someone--much less this human--closer to him. It was strange how he wanted to feel the other's warmth to drive away the cold when he could easily adjust his body's temperature to get warm. It was as if the human emitted a different kind of heat that could reach deep inside him, the only part of Phoenix that he couldn't warm himself. He shook his head and blamed his fanciful thoughts on not getting enough sleep last night.
It was some time before they arrived at a small land in the North called Polar. What was amazing about the island was the whole of it lights up every night, like a beacon at sea, due to the fireflies that come out at sunset. Phoenix wanted to see which would glow brighter: the fireflies or the human boy's eyes.
He went on to find the perfect place for them to stay. Phoenix chose a spot under the shade of an old tree. He sat down and gently placed Sogogi across his lap. The spirit smirked when the boy cuddled closer to him. He was honestly surprised to know that the young server could sleep so soundly. Although, the smirk was replaced by a frown when he realized the reason why Soh could sleep like the dead.
Phoenix cradled a smooth cheek with a hand. Are you so tired?
Sunset wasn't until a few more hours. He took off his burgundy cloak and covered the human with it. He leaned his head against the trunk and watched the boy sleep. Rest, little one.
He was awakened by a scream.
Phoenix opened his eyes to a purple sky and a horrified looking boy pointing at him. "Hello?"
Another scream. "You! Why are you here? Why am I here? Where is here? Where?!"
Phoenix winced at the shrill sound of the other's voice. "We are on an island called Polar. I am here because I want to be. You are here because I want you to be."
"What? You can't just take me to places because you want to!" the boy admonished, in his anxiety forgetting who he was speaking to. "How did we even get here? Do you have a boat?" Soh glanced about, panicked. "I don't see a boat."
"I carried you here."
"You walked on water?" the shorter male asked disbelievingly.
Phoenix burst out laughing. "There's this thing called flying."
Sogogi's eyes rounded. "We... flew? We--" The human slumped down on the grass and closed his eyes tightly. "This isn't happening. I'm just dreaming. But why is the Phoenix Spirit with me? This isn't a dream then. It's more like a nightmare--"
"Hey," Phoenix protested. He stood up and poked the server's forehead with a finger. "If I'm in it then it's definitely the best dream you'll ever get."
Soh opened his eyes. The spirit paused at the helplessness he saw there. "Please."
Phoenix sobered and held out his hand. "Come. Trust me."
He thought the human wouldn't take it but Soh surprised him by holding onto his hand and hoisting himself up. The boy looked at him expectantly. Phoenix held on to his slender digits as he guided them down a path towards the center of the island. The sun had almost set and the place was slowly coming alive.
They reached the center just in time. The shorter boy gasped in wonder as the fireflies lit up, one by one, hundreds by hundreds, thousands by thousands until the whole island was alight. "This is--"
"Amazing? I know," he finished for him.
Phoenix watched Soh spin around slowly--his lips turned up at the corners, gaze following the flight of the fireflies. His heart thudded fast and there was an unexplainable ache in his chest but he still looked on.
Feeling his stare, the boy stopped moving and stared back. The wondrous expression on his face was replaced by genuine curiosity. "Why did you bring me here?"
"I just wanted to find out something for myself," he shrugged.
He tried for nonchalance but he didn't think it worked because Soh was serious when he asked, "And? Did you find it?"
Phoenix, for an instant, let himself get lost in those bright eyes. "Yes, I did."
The young server gave a nod. "Then Time Spirit's friend... Can you take me back now?"
The boy touched his arm. Phoenix saw his own life flash before him and he suddenly felt sad. A thousand years wasted.
For the second time, he held out his hand. "Let's go."
"Uh, I still don't see any boat," the boy said, breaking the solemn atmosphere that surrounded them.
"There is no boat," he replied.
"Then how are we going to go back to the Bathhouse?"
He held on to the boy's arm. "The same way we got here. We fly."
Soh swallowed audibly. "But I can't."
"You don't have to worry about a thing. You just have to hold on real tight." Without warning, he wrapped his arms around the shorter boy's waist and propelled them upward. He could barely breathe with the death-hold Soh had around his neck but he thought it felt nice when the boy buried his face against his neck.
"I think I'm too young to die," Sogogi muttered, face still hidden.
The spirit wished there were a little more stars out that night so he could see the human clearly. "I won't drop you."
"No. But I'm already late for work. Aniyaku will kill me."
"I'll take care of it," he murmured against the other's hair. He could feel the boy shiver in his embrace and Phoenix began to think of impossible things.
They reached the topmost balcony of the Bathhouse at half past seven. Phoenix knew he should feel guilty for taking Sogogi away for too long but he wasn't sorry at all for he had learned something new today. He had always thought that the fireflies of Polar were the brightest things in the Realm.
But now he knew they weren't. They didn't compare to this human's eyes at all.
He let Soh down gently onto the wooden floor and was about to leave him when he was stopped by a hand on his robe. He turned back to see the boy looking up at him and he once again found himself unsettled.
"Time Spirit's friend--"
"You may call me Phoenix."
"Phoenix," Soh said timidly, "Thank you for the reward."
"I haven't given you one yet."
The boy appeared stumped. "That trip wasn't the reward? Then what was that?"
Phoenix shrugged. "I was bored."
"You were bored?!"
The spirit could see the human was getting riled. Now was the time to escape. "Yes, little one. Bored." He waved cheerfully before flying away. "See you tomorrow!"
"No, you won't!" he heard the server shout after him.
Yes, I will.
Soh wished he could go back to the night Chenchen dragged him out of the Bathhouse to wait for the arrival of the Time Spirit. He would have refused more firmly and wouldn't have let his curiosity get the better of him.
But he couldn't turn back the time no matter how hard he wished, so here he was standing on the topmost balcony of the Bathhouse for the seventh day in a row, waiting to be 'kidnapped' by the most obnoxious spirit he knew.
It was either this--waiting awake and prepared--or waking up in his sleep clothes to unfamiliar surroundings again (which already happened twice). Out of these two options, it was obvious he would choose the former. The Phoenix wasn't one to actually ask for permission from anybody before carrying them off to heaven knows where. He just did what he wanted. And apparently that was to island hop across the Realm with Sogogi in tow.
They've already gone to the Caves of the Shadow Scorpions, the Wolf Mountains, the Unicorn Plains, the Great Eastern Lake, and a whole lot more places that Soh didn't even realize existed. He couldn't say he didn't enjoy the outings though, even if they did cut on his badly needed sleep.
Besides his annoying habit of pretending to drop Soh whenever they were flying, Phoenix, he grudgingly admitted, was a great companion. He also had this way of looking and smiling at you that would make you hard-pressed not to give in and feel as if you actually wanted what he was forcing you to do.
Soh could feel the wind shift and he knew Phoenix was near. Sure enough, a few seconds and the tall male was perched on the railing, grinning at him. "Ready?"
"Do I have a choice?" he mumbled under his breath. He raised his arms and waited for the spirit to lift him up but Phoenix remained unmoving.
"I apologize if I made you feel that way," the spirit said somberly. "I want you to know that you have a choice. If you don't want to see me, you just have to tell me and I'll go."
If Soh didn't know better, he would say that the Phoenix was serious and that he was truly hurt by the boy's unspoken accusation. But the thing was, after more than a week with him, he did know better, especially that mischievous slant to the spirit's lips. "Oh, really now."
The flame-haired spirit laughed and this time when Soh held out his arms, Phoenix drew him against his chest and carried him away.
It ends up always being after noon when they leave. Soh absently ran his hand through the soft hair on the spirit's nape. He didn't see how the other's eyes softened when he looked down at the human boy. Soh liked how the light caressed Phoenix's reddish hair, making it appear as if they really were flames and a touch might burn you. Except they never did.
"If you're sleepy, you can rest your head on my shoulder," Phoenix said.
Soh did just that and he felt the arms around his waist tighten and pull him closer. He still was afraid of heights so it was a bit ridiculous how safe he felt when he was so high above the ground, he could almost touch the clouds.
"I was serious, though," the other said after a while. "You do have a choice."
"If I really do, then let me decide where we should go tomorrow." Soh couldn't believe those words left his mouth. "Uh--"
"Done," Phoenix answered with a chuckle.
Flustered and feeling out of place after practically ordering around a high ranking spirit, Soh tried to change the subject. "Where are you taking me this time?"
"Just somewhere near. I want to show you something I made."
They landed on a small island just a few kilometers east of the Bathhouse. There was nothing much there, as far as Soh could see, except for overgrown weeds and some trees -- nothing really interesting save for a bunch of driftwood and dried branches arranged in a circle in the middle of the island.
"How is it?" Phoenix asked from beside him. "How does it look?"
"It looks... interesting?" he answered. He wasn't certain what the spirit was asking.
"That's it? Just interesting?" Phoenix looked disappointed. "But I've been building it for weeks." After Sogogi's puzzled look, the spirit pouted. "Can't you see? It's my nest!"
"Your... nest?"
"Yes!" Phoenix flew into the middle of the 'nest' and spread his arms wide. "My nest."
"Oh, okay. Just like a bird. It's... yeah." Soh didn't know what else to say.
"I can fly but I'm not a bird!" The spirit said indignantly before he rolled his eyes at him. "I'm the Spirit of the Phoenix, Soh. I should have a nest."
"For what?" Soh asked. He thought the Phoenix and spirits like him lived like humans do. Why would he need a nest?
He saw the Phoenix open his mouth to reply but abruptly closed it again. "It doesn't matter. It's not important. Let's go."
The human felt bad. He sensed that he said something he shouldn't have. He could feel Phoenix withdraw from him even when he was holding him close throughout their flight back. The spirit didn't smile nor wave goodbye at him when he left, making Soh feel disappointed and at a loss.
No matter, he thought determinedly, whatever he did, he'd make up for it tomorrow. There’s always tomorrow.
PART II