Shim Changmin - Arestos

Son of Phobetor, walker of dreams. Psycho and hypnotherapist.

[mpchangmin]

mpxrowoon

Returning his eyes to Changmin as the fellow demigod leans a little closer, Rowoon watches as the man he’d just met, the two of them trust together on the whims of their parents, tries to comfort him. Gently, and with sincerity. It was truly touching and despite how Rowoon may seem robotic, he does in fact have feelings and they had been soothed a little by the other’s kind behaviour. He does hope they can become firm friends, best friends perhaps! Rowoon has never had a best friend, it is something he believes he would enjoy. “Thank you” he hums softly with a small nod, letting the moment pass as Changmin moves on to explain his own story around coming to the island.

“I am the same” Rowoon nods, finding similarities in their stories, young men who pushed forward to excel in the mortal world now coming to this island to start again. More proof they should become best friends. “A therapist..” he nods slowly, finding that very interesting in itself. The human mind was not something Rowoon would claim to understand. Motives, he gets. Why people do what they do for base reasons but anything beyond that, new territory. “Explain to me how that works” he hums, setting his drink aside, very clear that his interest had been piqued. “You do not seem very scary, but I thought your father’s powers were based in nightmare and fear?” His head tilts a little, very confused because this man seems charming and confident, so where does the fear come in?

“Do you... kill on the side?” Perhaps it was a little prejudicial to assume he must be something scary, given his parentage, but he has to start somewhere to understand him.

Changmins eyes had been on Rowoon for the moment and for a second he is slightly surprised. Because for just a little bit he seems actually more human than otherwise and his shoulders seem to be less straight than usual. The thank you is sincere, and he’s very glad he reached out to the other boy in that moment. This feeling of joy after having given some kind of comfort is why Changmin loves being a therapist so much. If he can be of any help to soothe the difficulties in life, honestly he was already a happy man. 

Arestos knows that while Rowoon acts peculiar, there is sincerety in the things he does. So as he leans back he reminds him he didn’t need to be surprised for being thanked. After all he can see that Rowoon is also a demigod like him, and he knows a bit about his father. Camazotz would have a similar tone of... Strength. Thanking others for their aid to him and their genuine willingness to say more emotional things, even if he maybe didn’t need them per se. Rowoon appears similar yet as a demigod also more fragile. Though he thinks he shouldn’t try to psychoanalyze a possible new friend. Frankly... Despite how Rowoon is, he thinks so far they’re getting along and he quite likes him. He’s calm and smart, and given how well their fathers got along surely they would also be a good match? 

Changmin takes a bigger sip from his drink this time, eyes casting a curious glance over at the Mayan as he confirms they have similar backgrounds. It appears he was in fact interested in other people quite a lot, as he lingers on his occupation. Changmin bursts abruptly in a genuine amused, happy chuckle at the way Rowoon phrases his question. How it works? Now that’s not something he’s sure he can answer, but he can probably but it in terms that made sense to Rowoons more systemic way of dealing with the world. It’s even more amusing as he mentions his heritage and then... “K-kill?” His eyes grow wide as if in disbelief if he heard right, but then he shakes his head and waves a hand to deny it. Another chuckle swiftly passes his lips. “No, no. my abilities are very limited compared to my father anyways, but I don’t kill people thankfully. I can enter people’s dreams but when I do they turn to nightmares. I also can’t feel fear. Other than that I’m just who I am, so I’m glad you think I’m not scary at all. I would probably make a very bad therapist if I was.” He jokes a little, though unsure if the jest of it will reach Rowoon though he thinks this kind of joke might just. “I’ve been learning to try to use it in my therapy practice though, the nightmare inducing. Since it brings out the subconcious fears I think it can be a great tool for me to identify my clients issues but I have to thread carefully and not misinterpret. I’ve been working on this with my father. I heard you’ve also been working alongside Camazotz, is that right?”

[mpchangmin]

A Problem Shared | The Phobetor Clan!

[mpchangmin]

continued from phobetorxmp : @phobetorxmp

starter for @mpchangmin @mpadaline ​

“Hm-” Phobetor frowns as he peers into the high cupboard in his minimalist, black slate kitchen. Long, elegant fingers with nicely trimmed, black painted nails hold the small cabinet handle as his dark gaze continues to scout from back to front, left to right, in the cabinet of tea sets, leaves and all manner of brewing contraptions. A steadily deepening frown drawing on his brows as he just can’t spot it!

“Have either of you seen my tea strainer? The one with the ivory handle-” the god calls out as he turns from cabinet, to his two children, lounging comfortably in the open plan sitting room near by. Both as pre-occupied as they usually are by their personal activities. Either nose in a book by Changmin’s case or tapping away on some device or another if it where his daughter. The TV plays the advert break between his soap opera quietly in the background and he wanted to enjoy a nicely brewed peppermint tea whilst the drama of the Lee families secret baby adoption plot line unfolded but... he just can’t find it!

”Why are things always going missing” the god huffs to himself as he turns back to the brewing kettle, having not received an adequate reply from either of his preoccupied children. “I guess I will just have a tea bag then!” He calls back, lifting the box as he looks over at them. This does not gain him the rise he wanted, despite it being an absolute travesty. “How is tea supposed to infuse properly in a tiny bag” the Greek grumbles to himself, throwing the box down as the kettle clicks in front of him.

It is likely not that it had gone missing, or been taken - just put back in the wrong place! These things had started to happen more and more frequently since he’d hired a cleaner to keep up with their family. “I will have to talk to that cleaner-” the god continues to chat away to himself as he plucks open the box of tea bags to draw one out. “I found my cologne bottles stored in the wrong order last week” he huffs, as if this was something he should not be expected to live with. Phobetor is quite particular, it turns out.

Changmin was seated at the long table near the kitchen, while his sister was relaxing with their father. He had occupied the table as part of his research, books scattered all over it and opened on pages he needed with little tabs poking out plenty stuck to pages he might have to go between or where he had put them previously for easy looking up. Many different colors and design poked out in a system probably only he, and maybe his father, understood. It was a lot of books, but ordened in a way for him to go between them easily as he cross-checked and did his study into particular subjects so he could better help his clients. ...Or maybe Seonghwa. 

His brain registers Phobetors humming who has been looking for something in the kitchen for a long while. And subconsciously he knows the god is getting a little bit frustrated and will nag him, but he’s too deep in his notes to immediately react to it. Only when they are called out does he actually look up, eyes a little wide in questioning of what was said till the words register. “Tea strainer?” It was no secret that Changmin had a cup every now and again, though he is more of a coffee guy and uses the coffee machine in the house the most frequently he thinks. If he’s home it would be multiple cups a day. “Where have you last seen it?” The demigod son asks, as if they could easily find it with this very common strategy. He took no blame for the strainer missing clearly. He thinks he knows which one? But his father had a dozen of tea related items, so it also seemed like he could just use something else for now. Even if he understood wanting to get your things back. 

His caramel brown eyes remain on his father as he nags and mumbles, rather grumbles about this and that to himself. It’s somewhat cute actually. Especially as he begins about something as silly as the order of his colognes. “Dad, I told you you wouldn’t like a cleaner. It will take a long time before they do everything exactly as you want them to.” Before that point was reached, they might just quit instead. 

[mpchangmin]

A Problem Shared | The Phobetor Clan!

[tchcshinki]

[phobetorxmp]

Love Advice | Phobetor & Changmin

“Hmm-” Phobetor nods in understanding as he slowly folds down to take his seat, laying one long leg over the other as he reaches out for his tea cup to slowly stir it with a spoon. He was quite content to carry on the conversation - learn about his son’s friends and discuss Seonghwa in more depth. He knows Changmin is very close with him, but as the question is posed about the renovation work he was currently undertaking, the god’s eyebrow arches as his eyes lift. That seemed… strange. Was Changmin trying to change the subject on him? He had not picked a good choice if he hoped to lead his father of down a tangent. 

“I am surprised you want to talk about the renovations at my business-” Phobetor replies, dark eyebrow arching. Babylon was, after all, a brothel and the rooms being decorated were for that purpose. Not something Changmin would usually like to discuss. Still, he could possibly play with this and get closer to the truth of what he is hiding. “Perhaps you are asking as an excuse to go there and see?” He hums, eyes lowering to his cup as he slowly stirs, worried if he looks up his mask would break. “Did someone catch your eye? A… service, perhaps?” He teases subtly, lifting his eyes to him again. “Changmin?” His tone demanded the truth, either continue on down this lie, or tell him what he was really trying to hide. 

[mpchangmin]

Changmin keeps his eyes on his tea as he blows on it, trying to look natural but he wasn’t that good a liar. Especially not to people who knew him well and were in his heart. He always felt bad when he lied to those and rarely did so anyways. Nonetheless he goes with it cause what else should he do...? Tell his father he has a crush on one of his best friends and someone Phobetor had also aided before? Oh god. 

His brown eyes glance over when his father mentions his surprise. Arestos is watching his expression half hidden himself from behind the teacup. He gets the feeling he’s going somewhere with this and he’s trying to see if Phobetor caught him already but... Unlike him his father can hide his intention rather well. He’s not as easy to read. ...While he watches him he listens with keen ears to pick up any clues but instead of those, what he hears is unbelievable. And embarassing! He almost spills his tea as he takes a sharp inhale, the liquid going down the wrong pipe, and he ends up coughing as he puts the cup down. Yeap, he was so not smooth. It only gets worse as Phobetor goes on and of course Changmin can’t accept this, so once he stops coughing and his name is called he has to protest. 

“O-of course not! Dad! I- Babylon’s services-” Even saying it like that he can’t get the sentence across his lips well, he doesn’t even know where he’s going other than denial. “I don’t want to know! I was only asking about the renovation itself, the management of it, if there’s delays...” His tone weakens off and his gaze is shifty. He knows the tone with which he said his name and it makes him uneasy because Phobetor wants the truth... “Ah, dad. I don’t mind talking to you about anything but-... Some things are just to awkward to say to you or mom!” In all fairness... He would probably more easily talk about love to his mother but he doesn’t even want to think right now whether it’s love or not! Not because his father was a bad listener, they just didn’t have a history of talking about this. Because when had Changmin ever been interested in intimate relationships and felt the need to ask his father about it?

[ginpotts]

shim changmin, the softest boy™

[mpchangmin]

mp-seonghwa

Seonghwa glanced up only to see Arestos retreat back against the wall. And it was his fault. All of this was his fault. Arestos did not deserve to fell this way and yet the man said it himself. He wouldn’t let Seonghwa go. They were at an impasse if nothing changed. A stalemate. Caught between fear and love forever and never leaving that place. He couldn’t do that to Arestos. “If you won’t go…then I will.” He set his cup down and moved. He ran to his room and locked the door before Arestos could stop him. He ran to his closet and grabbed a black duffle bag that would have everything he’d need to make a quick escape. Fake passports and ids. Money. Weapons. He would disappear and Arestos would forget about him and move on. Akbul would be better off without him too. He glanced at the little bird call his father had made for him and his heart broke. He’d been so close. So close to a normal life. To friends. To family. To love.

But there was a noose around his neck that was pulling ever tighter and there was no escaping it. Tears were streaming down his cheeks quiet little choked off sobs were pushing passed his lips as he frantically threw his clothes into the bag. He had to leave before the organization found out and brought hell upon the only people who ever gave a damn about him. It was the only way to protect them all. From them and from himself.

Changmin feels like he is drifting between worlds. The real one in front of him and the other one similarly real to him of nightmares. He sinks into himself for a second and he’s both too tired and too slow in the moment to do anything when Seonghwa runs past him and into his room of which he locks the door. His eyes had widened and his body turned but the moment his hand reaches out he already hears the click of the lock. For a moment he just sits there frozen. Because he has no idea what to do and a worry is creeping up to him steadily. It was intense though, but alas Arestos could not feel true fear. 

“Seonghwa.” 

His voice finally sounds out. “Seonghwa?” He turns further towards the door and places his hand against it before knocking urgently a few times. And then more hastily. “Stop! Don’t go! I told you I’ll follow you!” He can feel he is getting desperate now... But is there really anything he can do...? “I don’t care what you do but don’t leave-” His voice is urgent and full of unchecked emotion. He realized this is what he hated most. When people left or he had to leave others behind. Chips began to crack and he swore he could feel pieces of his heart fall off. He feels too overwhelmed to with the need to hold on to cry, as he urgently keeps knocking at the door and calling his name.

[mpchangmin]

Secrets | Changmin & Mimi

[mpchangmin]

mp-chanmi

“I think if she wants to find those memories she’s going to be in for a rude awakening..” she mutters picking up a strand of her hair to pick at her ends. For the moment that felt easier to give her attention to than the question. Her demeanor did change and that should say a lot about how Dezzi feels towards Mimi. Sure she has her mean streaks or her own selfish needs, but she was still her own person even if she was in someone else’s body. Dezzi felt very strongly about that even since the beginning.

“Brave for holding the box..” she echoes softly as she thinks more about what Changmin says. Is she? It hurts her head too much to think anymore of that. It’s stressful too, to know what she knows, to have those old memories of these monsters that had this little girl. She wasn’t a little girl to them though.

The next question she gets from the demigod seems to go right over her head. Did she have anything to talk about? Not that she could think of? Dezzi wasn’t going to be the first person to say that she has something wrong with her. She genuinely doesn’t think she does. “Hmm..I don’t know. What would there be to talk about? Other than the elephant in the room?”

The little gestures of course tell Changmin enough. Dezzi knows the weight of this secret that she hold from Mimi, and she seems to think Mimi would be unprepared for it if she were to try to find out. Or something along those lines. Worry, would be a simple way to put it. Either way he presses just a small tad on this question. “Okay. But I asked how you would feel. I understand it might be strange, but in my office if you’re here it’s not about Mimi. It can be about your relationship with her, but if you’re here then we’re talking about you, Dezzi.” His words maybe seem strict but he speaks calmly and without any provocation or demand for her to do as he says. He’s simply saying how he runs his practice and appointments. If she had a problem with it, she’d be welcome to. 

“The same goes for my other question. I’m not actually sure which elephant you’re referring to, there’s many things I could talk with Mimi about. But those are for me to discuss with her.” Changmin begins to explain and shifts a bit in his seat, not paying attention to his clipboard right now. “You said she doesn’t stand up for herself, that’s something I might talk with her about if she wants to. So, is there anything that you want to talk about that is about you. That’s my question for you and you’re welcome to think on it till another time. It’s also fine if you’re good but since you’re here I want to ask you as well.”

[mpchangmin]

Stuffed

[mpchangmin]

exmplalisa

It takes her a bit more patience than the stuffed chicken breasts has done to hear what Changmin actually wants to get out of his chest. He looks so nervous and perplexed Lalisa hardly sees any pieces of her cool and collected friend in him, and that definitely makes her sit straight up and leans forwards with growing concern.

When what supposed to be said is finally verbalized, the demigoddess pauses, more like freezes herself, in her sitting position. It just lasts for a few seconds, however, as she slowly leans back against the dining chair, her mind quickly catches up with the whole freshly revealed secret. Her facial expressions, despite remaining calm in general, display a wide range of emotions, from surprise, confusion, to something resemble a relief. She can’t tell why, but at the time she realized Changmin hasn’t actually spoken the prohibited word ‘love’, or said something close to give their friendship a chance to grow, Lalisa feels relieved. Both for him, and for her.

Keep reading

Changmin sees the many emotions that cross Lalisa her features and briefly he worries he really shouldn’t have said anything. Because the last thing he wants is to make her uncomfortable. However it seems Lalisa is also considering his side, when she then beams him a smile and actually thanks him. Well, a thank you never was a good response after you just confessed, he thinks. But, honestly he’s happy with it. As long as she wasn’t uncomfortable he was fine. 

Then the conversation shifts and the demigoddess pulls it to herself, for her to speak. Changmin listens, attention on her and her every word. He was... Surprised she did like him back, to some degree that is, and that she had actually considered them together. Honestly, it seems like she had been more level-headed than him and given it better consideration while he was too caught up with himself. His heart stops for a moment as a moment of silence falls, waiting for Lalisa her verdict. But when it comes... Surprisingly, despite her thoughts, he doesn’t feel bad or upset. His heart just beats again like it would normally. And though it’s a selfish thought, it also feels like a weight is lifted off his shoulders. Not because compared to Seonghwa he thought he liked one or the other better necessarily, he refuses to compare it, but because what she says makes sense and clears this one path. An uncertain path but now the lights on the road were turned on and it was possible to get an idea of where it led.

Though it might be a bit weird, Changmin smiles softly at the sentiment. His gaze falls to his lap for a moment but not for long as he sits up and leans forward. With her hand on his, he places his other on top similar to how she had. He gently pats her hand and gives her a reassuring smile to let her know he was fine and had peace with that. “Thank you, for being honest with me and considering it.” There’s not much more to say than that, as he thinks they can both close a chapter here and go on to the next.

That is until Lalisa then continues... And this news does upset him a little, more than he likes to admit. He had truly appreciated her as his friend even while he had a crush on her. It had been difficult for him to come to Mount Phoenix and leave his friends behind, and Lalisa was one of his first true new friends here. As such, it was difficult to see her go. But letting her go in itself... Not so much. Because he knows, he knew before, that there was a very bright future for her that was beyond the island. She deserved the world and he’d known that part of her wanted to go back to that life, he had always known. Despite his rather solemn expression when first hearing the news... He nods again and his expression changes to acceptance and genuine joy for her. “In that case... I’m sure you will achieve all your goals. And you better send me a copy of your album once you release one. Signed.” At once he grins again, because this is what they do best. Joke with and tease each other. 

When she pulls her hand back he knows it’s really over and it’s melancholic but good, healing even. His own hands retract a moment later and then he also stands up. “Which prince Charming, this one wasn’t good enough to charm you.” He teases but of course steps in to hug her. “Let’s stay in contact, tell me if there’s ever something you need. And of course i wish you all the best of luck.” He holds the hug a moment more and then tightens it, speaking some of his last words to her then. 

“I’m glad I told you.”

And then he lets her go.

[mpxrowoon]

Son Swap | Changmin & Rowoon 

“I see…” Rowoon replies to Changmin’s answer about his enjoyment of alcohol. Now he had ordered his drink, his sharp gaze was once more back on the other demigod. “I have been told that alcoholic libation is often a good tool for social situations, but… I have had no need to use it for that” he claims, utterly self unaware of his own social bluntness as he turns his gaze to water the bartender set down a small napkin on the bar beside him, then his glass. Tall and frosted with sparkling water bubbling inside and a small, pink paper umbrella resting on top. “Oh-” he chimes happily, reaching out to take it. Showing a small hint that he was not a complete robot. Some frivolous things do entertain him. 

Twirling the umbrella between forefinger and thumb, Rowoon lifts the glass to take a sip as the next question comes, and his eyes once more return to the handsome face of his counter part. “A simple enough story” he begins to explain, lightly sucking the water from his top lip as he lowers the glass. “My mother died of cancer recently and having travelled to the Mayan underworld to receive her soul, alone, foolishly, my father thought it best I come to the island to connect with my divine half”. In true Rowoon style, he sets to explaining the single most traumatic experience of his entire life as if he were reading the back of a cereal box.  

“You?” He piques with a gentle tilt of his head, lifting the glass to take another sip as he watches Changmin with curiosity for his answer. “Nightmares, am I correct? Fascinating..”

[mpchangmin]

Observing Rowoon is... Certainly something. It wasn’t a spectacle, but for the psychotherapist in Changmin he is certainly an interesting case. And that’s saying something he think considering the island is full of odd people. The sharp gaze that returns to him is not one he meets as he instead takes another small sip of his drink. He thinks he should make the sips especially small because he might have to do a lot of sipping to avoid too awkward moments... Though probably Rowoon wouldn’t know if it was awkward? Either way, when the sparkling water is served he does look at the son of the bat god, especially as he seems pleasantly surprised by the pink umbrella. Changmins face is full of fascination, watching him twirl it. One corner of his lips tug up at the scene in slight disbelief yet amusement. Did he know how much he was like his father? The action in particular is one he is sure Camazotz would also show. Frivolous despite the seriousness. 

All of a sudden then their eyes are connecting again and it becomes little ore uncomfortable once more. He doesn’t blame the other but the fact he was that handsome and tall with that flat expression was of course not easy to get along with for most. Even the way he tells stories is systematic. Not something Changmin has a problem with but telling something that heavy like that! Wow! He could do a whole research study on his brain. Too bad he can’t because well, things like Mayan underworld and gods in a research paper... Yea no. And within a beat the demigod shifts the conversation back to him. Probably also out of learned habit that it was polite to ask in return. 

A soft chuckle passes Arestos his lips before he nods in confirmation. “Yea, a son of Phobetor. But, before we go into that.” He lets a moment fall and his hand hovers in the air for a second, but then he reaches out and pats the other boy his shoulder. “I’m sorry for your loss.” It’s a few simple words but he thinks it’s the least he can do, and honestly as a therapist he really can’t let Rowoon just brush past a story like that. He’ll let him escape from it by talking about Phobetor and his family after, but he purposefully made it a moment to pause on. Because if Rowoon doesn’t place importance on it for some reason, he will. “I worked in Seoul for a long time as a therapist but I was getting to that point where my friends were beginning to age more than me. More obviously. And well, similarly my dad thought it would be a good time for me to come here and get in touch with my more... godly side. I lived as a regular human pretty much up until I got here!”

[mpchangmin]

mp-seonghwa

Seonghwa felt himself growing even more agitated as Arestos continued. When would he get it through his head that Seonghwa was just bad. Bad for him. Bad for the island. Bad all around. He was a monster. A beast that had no place among mortals or gods or anyone for that matter. Yet there he was spouting all these sentiments that Seonghwa would love to believe but to do that he’d have to ignore the truth and the truth would not be ignored. “Arestos I-” He tried to interject but it seemed the older was determined not to let him as he continued.

And then he said it. The one thing Seonghwa had never dared to hope for and the one thing he could never afford to believe lest it destroy him. Love. He saw the way Arestos was looking at him and it was so sincere and heartfelt it scared him. “S-stop. Don’t. Don’t say that to me.” He backed away as panic grew in his chest, fear in his eyes. But not fear of Arestos. He was afraid because he loved him too. An assassin in love was a dead one and so was the object of their affections. “You can’t love me. You can’t. Just stop!” The shadows around the room grew darker as the light bulbs flickered. No no no this couldn’t be happening. Arestos couldn’t love him. Not after everything he’d told him. Seonghwa was falling apart, torn in two between wanting to love Arestos freely and knowing the consequences of doing so. Damn it why couldn’t he have been born someone else? Why was he forced to deny himself the things worth living for? The things worth dying for. The darkness around him had begun to creep up his legs and around his shoulders in an attempt to shelter him from his own inner turmoil to no avail. Tears still pricked at the corners of his eyes as he wrapped his arms around himself in a form of self comfort.

At once Changmins eyes widened slightly in fear for Seonghwa’s well-being because he could instantly recognize the sentiment in his eyes as fear. He wants to reach his hand out, catch him in a tight embrace, kiss him even. But Arestos does none of these things because he is also afraid. Afraid he’ll be pushed away again or that he’ll break something more in Seonghwa. He had pushed the boundaries way too far with this, he knows, so he can’t step closer and add on top of it. He physically can’t as his limbs feel like there is an invisible rope tied to them to keep him from moving to him. 

“But-...” He starts and immediately stops. His eyes never leave the form of Seonghwa even as shadows start to grow and the lights flicker. He knows it’s the other his panic causing this. Especially seeing them creep around him and his arms folding around, Changmin is well aware Seonghwa is trying to protect himself in a blanket. Blocking him out, as if it wasn’t real. But it was. Though, he thinks Seonghwa already knows this and that’s exactly why he is reacting like this. It takes everything in him, everything, to finally then force himself. One leg falls back almost robotically and then the other. He takes a step away, giving Seonghwa more space and finally he speaks. “I’m sorry, Seonghwa.” And he means it. He really is sorry. Seeing him like that, he is sorry he fell in love with him but it isn’t any different and there’s no denying it. Afterthe first step it is easier to take another back, and another. His head falls for a moment while he does till his gaze is softer and tired when it returns to the other demigod and he lets himself slide down the wall once his back hits it. “I’m sorry, I can’t let you go.”

[mpchangmin]

mp-seonghwa

Seonghwa nearly dropped his cup at the other’s confession. Once again his mask fell as the utter disbelief took over his expression. It was becoming more and more difficult to hold onto when he was with Arestos and that was a problem by itself never mind the absolute lunacy of what Arestos had actually said. “Are you insane? You know I wouldn’t stop! That I can’t stop! Even with your blood on my hands I would not be able to stop and yet you would throw your life away so easily! How fucking selfish are you?” This was madness. They were going crazy. That was the only explanation he could come up with to explain what he was hearing.

“You’d die on the off chance that your death would somehow save me from a fate I’m already locked in? And your father and sister? All you’re friends? You’d give that all up for a near impossible outcome that I don’t even deserve! You’re even crazier than I am Arestos.” Seonghwa was angry and jealous and hurt and scared and all of it just made his head hurt. So that’s what he latched onto. The hurt. Pain was familiar. Pain was safe. He looked coldly at his former friend. “Maybe you are willing to throw away your life for such a thing as me but I am not. So I’ll say it again. Go home Changmin. There’s nothing you can do for me. There never was.”

Frankly, Changmin did not want to die. And to be even more frank, he was bluffing. But he was really good at it. He wants Seonghwa to know that he is going to chase him. He doesn’t want him to run because if he does, it just gets more complicated. At least if he stays here on Mount Phoenix, he has some time to figure something out. Something. How could there not be something?! There must be! Sadly, it seemed that Seonghwa was convinced that his death would not be enough of a blow to him to stop him... Damn he actually felt a little disappointed. Did he not mean more to him, in his heart? Part of him hoped... The idea of him dying because of Seonghwa, despite how twisted it was, would lead to such grief that Seonghwa wouldn’t be able to continue. Seems he was wrong, at least not there yet. But the brief disappointment only gives him extra information and he is soon grabbing ahold of himself again and refocusing on Seonghwa. 

“I’m that selfish!” Changmin yells, both to illustrate the immensity of how much he cared about Seonghwa but really it’s hiding the fact that he felt very upset even thinking about leaving his family behind. “If it’s you I’m that crazy! How blind are you, Seonghwa?!” He yells out his name now and his fists tighten with the exertion but he does not step closer or do anything else except continue what he is saying. “I was so damn blind! But you’re even worse than me! Why the hell do you think I’m holding onto you?! Why would I want to die for you and do all those things?! Out of the good of my heart?!” His tone shows honesty and disbelief. “I do a lot of things for other people, and yes I care a lot! But why would I go to this extent? Am I such a weak-minded and dim-witted person to you?! Seonghwa, you know me better! Why else do you say i’m acting crazy like this! Open your eyes, I’m not crazy. It’s because i love you!” And with that at once he fell silent. Maybe that was a bit strong. A lot strong. Oh shit now he was doubting himself, his eyes were searching Seonghwa’s desperately.

[phobetorxmp]

Love Advice | Phobetor & Changmin

With a soft click of the pottery, Phobetor sets the lid back on the tea pot, eyes glancing momentarily as his son makes such a sweet sentiment, knowing how he feels about the outwardly affectionate gestures. However, even with his usual stiffness, Phobetor is able to smile softly and nods, accepting his son’s words before setting the tea pot and two cups on the tray, so he can walk back with them. In the world of the nightmare god, accepting love and praise was just as powerful as giving it. No scolding came this time.

“Here, drink your tea” he murmurs, knowing the hot brew could sooth any ills that plagued his eldest child, though they had solved nothing, he had at least been able to voice some of his concerns. “Your friends are doing well, I hope?” He asks, slowly pouring tea for their cups before he takes a seat and leaves it to cool a little. With his children came other young things to worry about, in his own way, he liked them. Though undoubtedly they came with their own issues. 

“Seonghwa has recovered from his trip to the nightmare realm?” He asks, eyebrow lightly arching because he had still not fully forgiven the boys for his fright. 

[mpchangmin]

Changmin didn’t expect any kind of big response from his father. He was about to turn back around and just let it be at that point when he sees the nod accompanied by a small smile. Even without he knows his words hit the mark, but with them he feels just that little bit warmer in his heart, and he finally does turn back to face the tv. His father brings over the tea, and so casually tells him to drink it. It was said casual, but as his son the demigod knew it was also a soft way of shutting him up while soothing him at the same time. And so he smiles as he watched his dad pour them tea and sit back down. 

“My friends?” Changmin asks when the topic is brought up, and so to the point as Phobetor brings up Seonghwa. But he doesn’t think it would be a good idea to tell his father to this extent of his troubles, so he hopes he manages to come across somewhat natural as he nods. “They’re doing well, I think he did but you know how he is. Even if it bothered him he’d probably not tell me that easily? So I’ll make sure to keep an eye out.” Oh boy he already felt a bit awkward talking about Seonghwa with his father now. “How is the renovation?” Maybe he can stir the conversation away, making it seem like he is only doing it because of the incident last time and the fear of his father remaining anger. Which really, it was fair that he was still upset... Even though it’s still hot, Changmin grabs the cup meant for him and blows on the tea.

[mpchangmin]

Stuffed

[mpchangmin]

mplalisa

Usually, Lalisa wouldn’t believe in this thing called fate, but with Changmin offering her a hand at the supermarket’s parking lot and they just hitting it off like a house on fire, it was somewhat magical to her. She had rarely, if ever, let a man be that close to her at such a fast pace, especially after the still-ongoing drama with her ex. And she knew it might sound really, really cliché, but Changmin was different, in such an incredibly good way it left her dumbfounded. Maybe it was because he was like her, half-blooded descendants of powerful gods who were lucky to have a healthy relationship with their dear fathers.

She didn’t notice when they has switched from beer to wine, but that was still a perfect choice, so she got her glass ready once Changmin offered her some. As he asked, she titled her head briefly to check out the label, then shook her head with a soft smile, “Nah, it’s a gift from a friend for my birthday.” She didn’t get into more details, since no one needed to know more than that, she believed.

A gentle “thank you” left her lips once her glass was filled with a decent amount of wine, before she lifted the glass to her mouth for a small sip, letting the fruity, rather intense flavor bless her taste buds. “It’s rather strong though,” she comments, half warning her friend in case he was fooled by the wine’s sweetness. Sitting back on her chair, she spent a moment to appreciate the taste, also the view of the light crimson liquid in her glass

When her eyes were on Changmin again, it was immediately apparent to her that he’d got something in his mind that was dying to be spoken out. Her powers included sensing people’s intention, and it had been getting stronger since she moved to Mount Phoenix; even when she wanted to ignore it, she just couldn’t. Unfortunately, her powers didn’t include mind-reading, so she probably did both of them a flavor by asking him gently yet straightforwardly, “You look like you want to say something, Changmin. So if you don’t mind, tell me, I’m all ears.”

“Ah- Gotcha.” Changmin said with a soft chuckle as Lalisa briefly mentions the origin of the bottle of wine. Some store, somewhere. Cute. He poured her a glass and placed the bottle back down. His hand took his glass in it again as took another little sip. A bit of nervous sipping never killed anyone right? Or... A lot of it. Ah he should be watching himself. He thinks, because he didn’t want to be a drunk idiot in front of Lalisa. Not tonight anyways. He socffed softly at the mention of the strong taste but his mind was quite obviously elsewhere. For a therapist, he wore his heart on his sleeve quite a lot. Not to even mention the demigoddess her abilities... 

His deep brown eyes darted over as she spoke up, so directly which was very like the girl sitting across the table from him. The corners of his lips ever so slightly tugged up due to that sentiment. He begins by opening his mouth, but then just chuckles a bit sheepishly as he sits back. “Ah, you’re really putting me on the spot here.” He says and takes another sip of the wine. Wait he was trying to pace himself! He put the glass down on the table a little ways away from him, so it was just out of his reach for easy grabbing. 

“The thing is. I’ve come to realize a couple things about myself the last weeks and i don’t really know how to go about it. I asked my dad... And he said to not overthink it so here goes I guess.” He rubs the back of his head as he can feel he’s maybe for once getting rather shy. “Honestly, I feel a bit like a bad guy...” He starts off, pausing for a moment because he did feel like what he was going to say might not be the best thing. Ah... What was wrong with him? His mood visibly deflates some but before Lalisa tries to comfort him he goes on. He definite;y didn’t deserve that kind of kindness right. “The things is... I really enjoy it, anytime we’re spending time together. I mean today, cooking was also super fun. I don’t think I’m that difficult to talk to but when we’re talking it’s always natural and exciting, you know?” He looks up to meet her eyes finally, and a soft fondness is in his gaze. “I guess, it’s better to just say it than keep it quiet. But, I like you as more than a friend. But... There’s also someone else I like.” And that was the point where he broke this sweet moment. And instantly his head fell, because he felt like a total jerk for it. “I’m sorry if that is uncomfortable for you to hear.” His gaze is set down to the hands in his lap, fingers twiddling. Maybe he really shouldn’t have said anything. “I like you, but because of that other person there’s nothing I can do at the same time.” His gaze finally dares to venture back to check her reaction.

[mpchangmin]

mp-seonghwa

Arestos was smart. Too smart. It was exhausting just trying to keep up with all the arguments and counter arguments he made. Why couldn’t he just understand? It was not a hard concept to grasp. Seonghwa was a murderer, a monster. Plain and simple. Even if he didn’t want to. Even if it sickened him. Even if this life was thrust on him with no say, it didn’t change what he was. What he’d done. What he’d continue to do. Using Akbul and his mother against him like that, it hurt. More then he wanted to admit. For so long he’d longed to know them and now that he’d gotten the chance he’d ruined it. But he really should have expected that. There was a reason the organization didn’t keep their agents in one place for too long. The risk of attachment was too great, and Seonghwa was very much attached to the people on this island.

The grip on his wrist from Arestos was another thing he should have expected but he did not. Yet as soon as it had happened Arestos let go. He sighed as Arestos finally turned that searing gaze away and Seonghwa felt like he could at least breathe a little. “No. I don’t remember. I told you, everything I know, every memory I have is from the people that took me. I was too young to know anything but the life I was raised in.” That wasn’t entirely true but he knew if he said that it would only urge Arestos to continue this line of questioning. “I’ve told you the truth. You don’t have to accept it. You can continue to believe whatever you want about me but the fact remains that I am a killer. No amount of wishful thinking or denial will clean the blood from my hands.” There was a far away look in his eyes as he stared unseeing into his own cup. “I’ve said my piece. Now you know. And now, I want you to go.”

“Do you remember? What I said? I’m not going to stop.” At those perticular words Changmin turned around, gaze determined as ever like a righteous warrior on a battlefield facing an impossible battle but still standing there with his head held high. Even with all his degrees, he knew that what he challenging was... Beyond his scope. It was complicated beyond belief, messy and screwed up, pieces were missing and other twisted. It seemed neither Seonghwa and Akbul even knew. Because Seonghwa confessed to not remembering another time, and he believed it. It was strange and it had his brows knit briefly when he had said it, but it was another part of the maze within a puzzle within a blackbox that he was deperately trying to navigate through. He wanted to be inside it and find the path out, holding Seonghwa’s hand.

He could send him away. He could do all kinds of things to him. Blame him, cry, burst into anger, hit him, say those words... Those words. The words that he wants him to go. That hurt the most and he’s feeling the pain in his chest. But he still stands and he still won’t let go, like dog with such a strong bit you can’t get their mouths and teeth to unclasp from your arm. “You said I shouldn’t, that tehy might make you kill me. I’m not stupid Seonghwa, but if to save you I have to die then I’d do it. If to stop you from being this I will accept your knife into my chest.” As he said that he walked the few steps over but this time tried to not step into his space as he just stood right across from the killer in front of him. Changmins shoulders were squared and confident even though every fiber of his being was in pain and panic. His fists were balded but he wasn’t exerting strength in his grip as he looked straight at him with the most straight face he could muster. “If to stop a serial killer I have to die then that’s fine, even if you were to do something to yourself after I’ll know we spared other people and that you’re no longer in this hell.” No, he didn’t and wouldn’t feel like a hero. But his point was simple. He illustrated the picture that even the threat to his life was insignificant to him in comparison to how he felt about Seonghwa. Even if he disguised it behind the idea that he’d be stopping a serial killer. No, what he wanted was to save the boy in front of him. Park. Seong. Hwa.

[mpchangmin]

exercise ↞

[mpchangmin]

mpjordan

changmin’s face is a hilarious picture of shock and that hint of guilt at being caught in the act, and so jordan can’t help but laugh when he is looked at like that, which is a good thing because the thoughts that flicker through changmin’s head are just as amusing, so at least this time he has an excuse to laugh. “ah, your face,” he mumbles in between desperate breaths for air, though he was determined not to slow his pace just because he was running. “what is that line about nails and heads?” he asks still grinning before he recomposes himself slowly.

changmin soon waves off his words, however, and since he’s getting first class seats to the entire turmoil in changmin’s thoughts, he decides not to pry any further. “hey, man, i’m sorry,” he says instead with an easy smile, jogging a little closer to pat his friend on the shoulder momentarily. “i hope that works out for you.” and with that, he of course means he hopes that it’ll cause a lot more trouble first that he can get front row seats to, but that’s not something he has to mention out loud.

“i’m here if you want to talk, alright?” he adds after a moment, before finally picking up his normal running speed again after his little outburst of laughter. “though i’d say only after we finish this run or else it’s going to kill me.” he chuckles a little again, before focusing fully on the running again, as otherwise he might actually have trouble finishing this exercise jog they started.

Changmin can’t help but look at the ground for a moment when the other laughs, though his expression isn’t bemused. Rather it is one of being caught but seeing the funny side of it, trusting that Jordan would respect his choice for not saying everything. “Oh shut up.” The son of Phobetor elbows the egyptian demigod lightly, a huge grin on his face for the other his teasing. Even if his ears were slightly reddened he wasn’t made into a flustered mess that easily at all. Yet a moment later after he has explained shortly the other surprises him again. Jordan had always seemed a little rough around the edges even though he was a nice guy. He was that nice guy, sweetheart next door, but who was also just very cool. He had a boyish charm, he thought. 

They laugh again as Jordan cracks one more joke. With that the conversation seems over. Changmin gives him one more quick thanks but then they both focus on their actual workout again. It was a kind offer of Jordan, but at this point he thought he had to face this battle alone. After all, the biggest issue was him untangling his own feelings and his sincerity towards both of his now friends. He had to take some courage and that was something he’d have to collect himself. 

As the demigods are nearing the end of their job they’re both panting somewhat heavily, but Changmin had to say that he felt good despite it. It was nice to have set a challenge once again and Jordan was a good running partner for it. So as they come to a slow to walk for a cooldown he pushes his sweaty hair back and sets his hands in his sides as he speaks. “Ah, that was good. Good run.”

[mpchangmin]

Stuffed

[mpchangmin]

mplalisa

Changmin’s just made Lalisa laughed aloud again. Even though those jokes could be deemded inappropriate at times by others, Lalisa finds nothing more than pure amusement from them. It’s such a nice surprise to figure out that they have the quite the same sense of humor.

The clinking sound made by the two glasses adds to the joy, making the whole atmosphere homely and comfortable. The beer is cool and mild enough to be a proper appetizer; Lalisa is satisfied with her drink of choice, indicating buy a soft ‘kkk’ when she put the glass down. Her left hand takes the folk and the right the knife placed next to her on the table, then she uses them to take a chicken breast out from the large dish and put it neatly on Changmin’s plate.

“Alright, Changmin, please take a bite and tell me how these breasts taste.” She gestures him to take the first bite, lowkey staring at him because she doesn’t want to miss even the smallest of expression could run through his face as he tastes the chicken. “Please be honest, okay? I’m not hurt that easily, and I do trust you to let me know if there’s anything I can do better next time.”

“Hmm! No it’s good though.” Changmin says after he takes the first bite. Of course he’d flatter her a little bit while being honest, but in this case he was definitely serious about what he said. He had no doubts beforehand either way that it would be good. “The flavors combine well, maybe a little less rosemary? Let me take another bite.” He says as he’s clearly trying to thoroughly taste test it for her. “Hmm, yea a little less rosemary I think. What do you think, try it yourself!” He says with a smile and a laugh. And just like that there dinner had started and conversation was lively.

The two indeed got along well. They both liked cooking, he still remembered Lalisa and her hoard of ingredients which included a lot of ramyeon when they first met, and they both cared deeply for those close to them, he remembered the stories she’d told of her father. It was probably a good thing he hadn’t mentioned to Phobetor that Lalisa was one of the people he had a crush on... Considering he and Yixing knew each other. It would definitely make their conversations interesting... He thought. It wasn’t only their interests that matched up though but also things such as values and emotionally. They shared similar humor but were different enough to tease each other. Before, back in Seoul, he might have never gotten these feelings even if he had met Lalisa there. But here, on Mount Phoenix, even now he could feel his heart thumping in his chest because he liked her.

As the dinner was winding down Changmin had taken the liberty to try the wine, leaving the beer now so he wouldn’t get sick later. “It’s good, where’d you get it? Just downtown?” He asked her as he checked the label and then raised the bottle as if to ask if she also wanted a glass of it. The beer had helped, but he was sure with a little more of the wine his lips would have an easier time telling her that she made him happy. Despite how complicated he had made the situation, despite how he selfishly wanted to hold onto not just her but also Seonghwa... And that was a mess. His smile briefly cracked as he thought about him but he immediately refocused on Lalisa as he waited for her to answer if she wanted some wine as well or not.