Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It wasn’t everyday news the sighting of a Kato –visceral creatures with the shape of humans but cat-like features – in the wilderness, yet the Kimgru clan was in awe of finding a beaten up, almost lifeless specimen of one of their kind about 200 meters from the community. The silk-touch white, grey and black patterns all around the kato’s body, stained with a dark and fresh red among the fur, along with an almost broken slim tail was enough evidence that the being wouldn’t make it for much longer on their own.
Maybe it was a coincidence; pure luck, dare someone say, that one of the hunters who discovered the weak kato was no other than Namjoon, something of a strange specimen in the community himself.
The kato knew that already. Their instinct told them the trace of inhumanity wasn’t strong, yet it had some marks along that community. It all became clear once Namjoon interlocked sight with the cat-like creature.
Namjoon wasn’t entirely human, after all. And the kato didn’t know if they should be grateful or fear more for their destiny.
Being the offspring of an affair between a human and a Hundo, species similar to katos, yet the complete opposite due to their doggish and canine appearance, Namjoon always sort of mismatched alongside his community. He wasn’t afraid of calling the Kimgru clan his home; he had grown and was raised there after all, yet something was always off.
His prominent blond tail, with the set of blond ears that fell from his head like a cascade, were a dead giveaway that Namjoon wasn’t human. But the sole feeling of being different from the rest of his small community is what pushed him off to always tug his tail into his pants and hide his second pair of ears under a casual beanie or a baseball cap. He was never used to show his hundo features onto the world, so how could the kato detect his inhumanity at all?
Thoughts weren’t able to rest on his mind for more than a few moments before the creature was put in the community’s small nursery. Away from all people’s commotion.
Days have passed, and the kato’s stay never seemed to come to an end; they were afraid. They feared what the humans would do to them. The lack of treatment from the damage they’ve got from the woods became worse-looking everyday, yet the feline refused any kind of help by hissing all humans who dared to approach them. Debates amongst the heads of the community had risen up, and that cold night at the main yet small town hall building wasn’t an exception.

“Should we keep it?”

“It’s no use to us. We lose resources every day because of that cat and it will die anyway.”

“We should just send it to the forest and keep the predators away from us. It will be a good bait”

“Why don’t we sell it? I heard there’s many towns interested on having a kato for their own”

“To have them as slaves, or as food?”

“Who cares! If we dress up that being pretty well, we might just get lots of resources for their body.”

“If that kato doesn’t dare to speak or cooperate, we will sell them off in the next days.”

A hidden Namjoon was spying on his superiors at the entrance of the building; his canine ears sharply fell down in anger, his grip on the wood under his hands tightened. How could he feel his hundo blood boil for the potential loss of someone he doesn’t even know their name yet? His inner “dog” spoke to him, it knew he wouldn’t have the chance of meeting someone like himself for a long time, and it was the perfect chance of learning a bit of who he truly was.
But he had to take his chance. It was now or never to prevent that kato of having their fate sealed.

—Wait!

Namjoon erupted from the shadows, alarming the leaders. How long as he been hiding? He had to come up with something quickly.

—We just can’t sell them. If the kato doesn’t respond to our commands, do you think they will to any buyer? Plus, they’re injured and refuse treatment, they’d be dead by the point another community became interested on them.

Yijeong, one of the leaders, became curious at the half-hundo’s insinuations.

—Care to explain your sudden interest on the kato?

It didn’t take much for Namjoon to think an excuse.

—Look- katos are known to be good hunters, right? They have better sight, audition, and can see in the dark. Yeah, yeah, I know I have something of that myself. But if you guys let me treat with the cat- with the kato, maybe we can come at peace and have them as an addition.

The leader crossed his arms and let a sigh, Yijeong knew Namjoon was sort of a stubborn person to deal with.

—Namjoon, I know you like this cat and everything. But they’re one more mouth to feed and do not represent any kind of help to us. How do you think you can make them come into terms with you when they hadn’t paid any attention to us?

—I think you are ignoring something.

With a quick yet swift hand movement, Namjoon reached for his beanie and took it out of his head. Revealing his blond ears, and reminding Yijeong that he wasn’t so out of touch with the matter as he thought. The leader did mentally scold himself for not taking that into account.

—You’re a hundo, and not even a pure one. Are you sure the kato will listen to what you say?

—Please, just let me try. I’m the only one similar to them here and they’d be dead within hours in the woods by their own.

Yijeong raised a hand, stopping Namjoon from muttering any other word. He made his decision.

—Okay, interact with the kato if you want and play the zoo animals as much as you want. But if they don’t become any better by the next days, they’ll be thrown into the forest as animal food. Did you understand me?

Namjoon gulped, this was his only chance.

—Of course. Thank you so much for this opportunity. I’m gonna make the kato part of our people. I swear it.

Something started moving under his pants- it moved at his lower back, exactly. His tail was wiggling in excitement, an action Namjoon was too shy of admitting, and quickly went to calm it once he was dismissed by the leaders.
Namjoon was tired, but he knew it wouldn’t be good if he waited too much on his approach. So he went directly to the nursery on hopes he could finally meet that kato.
It didn’t take long to realize it wasn’t a very good idea once he entered the small building. It was dark and the clock marked the unholy time of after midnight. Every single step Namjoon took came along with more insecurities than confidence, yet every step made him closer to the kato’s room. It was seen from the blurred window at the door that the room was dimly lit by what it looked like a bedside light, giving Namjoon the idea that the cat-like being was awake.
He realized what was happening right after he knocked on the door a couple times. Why was he doing this? He should have ignored that being, let them be thrown at the forest to be killed by the weird and scary creatures, going on with his life as always. But he didn’t, and that little puppy inside Namjoon told him it was worth it. That damn cat was worth it.

—Can I come in? I don’t want to bother you.

After waiting a couple of seconds, Namjoon thought he wasn’t going to get a response any time soon, so he was on his way to go back to his small house and try again tomorrow, until it hit him.
Sweet. A sweet scent coming from that door went directly onto his nostrils and hypnotized Namjoon. A scent that reminded him of home, but- how? He was at his home; that same home he was raised and grew in. Yet the sweet and strong caramel scent reminded Namjoon of a home he never felt he had. That feeling of comfort and belonging which never inhabited on his mind before. Maybe he had to open the door after all.
And so he did.
Maybe it was because of the intimacy of the situation; the dim light, the quiet night hours, how casual everything felt. Namjoon almost gasped at the sight of the grayish being who was sitting cross-legged at the lonely bed in the room alongside the simple machinery that tracked vital signs.
The gold eyes from the kato made contrast with the lack of illumination from the room. Like lights in the middle of fog, reaching onto Namjoon, as if it was their only purpose. Maybe if he wasn’t so enchanted by the look from the other individual, he would be afraid; after all, Namjoon was never used to be that close from that kind of people.
The hybrid’s eyes inevitably traveled under the feline’s body. Among the thin and bruised appearance, he was captivated by how well sculpted the kato was in comparison of humans. Their breath was quite notorious and another sign of their bad state, giving how deep were their inhalations. If only Namjoon could watch them more closely- even touch that individual’s body with his own hands-.

—Take that thing off.

What?

Namjoon looked in confusion. Did the kato just…talk?
Of course they talked, that was normal, judging by the nature of their speech. But Namjoon was still baffled, all his life he thought these creatures spoke in gibberish, sometimes even like kids. But this being seemed to know what they were saying. Their voice came as a deep and soft purr that took Namjoon by surprise.

—What do you mean?

Namjoon asked again, still in a bit of shock, unable to understand things properly. The kato starts pointing at his head.

—That hat of yours-…Beanie? That’s how you call them? Take it off. Your ears are probably sore by now.

The kato was actually right. Namjoon was already hiding his hundo features for a longer time than he thought. He shyly removed his beanie, showing the almost droopy ears decorating his head, and proceeded to untuck his tail from his pants. The hybrid was embarrassed by how much the tail was moving. That was awkward for him.

—How did you know I had…this?

Namjoon finally asked, regarding his inhuman features. The other individual just shrugged and looked another way.

—I don’t know. I just think I saw your ears wiggle a bit once you found me. Either that or some destined love shit. Why do you keep hiding those anyway? Because if you don’t want humans to know about it, then you’re doing a terrible job.

—No! My community does know, it’s just…

It was embarrassing. How would he admit so openly that he wasn’t fancy on showing his features? More so in front of someone whose traits were more obvious; someone who could easily get the wrong idea.

—I think that when you’re used to roam with only pure-blooded humans all your life you do get a bit conscious of your features…They don’t treat me bad because of this, of course.

The kato wasn’t having any of it.

—But they give you enough weird looks and talks behind your back to make you hide them anyway.

Namjoon let a huge sigh.
The hybrid didn’t want a pity party on himself. But neither was happy on brushing it off. Namjoon couldn’t recall exactly on one particular situation that made him hide his features; maybe it was the time a childhood friend told him his tail constantly moving was annoying. Maybe it was how he always had to be left behind on any activities because his advanced senses made him sensitive to bright lights, colors or loud noises. Maybe how nobody on the community helped him with his unfitting clothes, and he learned how to modify them so they could adjust to his features at the age of fourteen. Also how he was told about two years earlier that he had to take twice a month some strange pills, pills he hasn’t seen anybody else on the community take at all, right after an outburst that he sometimes called “the start of his puberty”. Or how some of his “animalistic” tendencies were shunned out every time he felt too comfortable with himself.
Once he wasn’t an adorable dog baby for everyone’s pleasure anymore, he disliked being himself.
The kato crossed their arms, they pushed the right buttons, and felt quite satisfied on how they left the hybrid in quite some breakdown over their identity.

—Guess I’m right then. Why did you come here anyway?

They were curious. So far, Namjoon hadn’t tried attacking them, forced them to do something weird, and overall wasn’t being rude. So the kato adjusted their position in order to look properly at their opposite, giving a bit more of attention than before, but taking precaution of not hitting any sensitive part of their body. The hybrid limited himself to walk closely a the kato.

—Look, I’m gonna be direct- Others in the community don’t want you to be here at all.

—What a surprise.

—No! I’m being serious. They’ve been thinking on just ditching you out in the middle of the forest if you refuse to accept their help. And you’d be dead in just hours with your state right now.

Quite a sigh left the kato’s mouth, and could be a longer one if their ribs weren’t hurting that badly.

—What do you want from this, then? Because there’s no way you’d come at me only because you pitied me.

It felt bad in a sense that Namjoon did feel bad for the kato’s fate, but also knew it was his only chance of exploring his own being.

—I do want to help you feel better. I’m not the type of person to leave someone at their worst just to be eaten by animals, you know?

He scratched his head, a bit embarrassed of having to say something obvious. But wasn’t as embarrassing as what he would suddenly ask for.

—But also I…I wanted to know more about myself.

The feline tilted their head in curiosity, just as their tail moved a bit.

—Look I know we’re not kinda the same species. But you’re the only one of your- our kind that I’ve got to actually meet, and I thought maybe you could help me understand more my nature. Yeah, I know I’ve got quite some senses, but there’s so many questions I have, and I think you may know the answer to at least some of those.

The last thing the kato thought they’d be doing was teaching a hundo how to understand their instincts and use them at his advantage. They felt as if there was no other option than a yes, but they still felt the need of tempting a better deal.

—Then what’s in it for me, big boy?

They asked quite challenging but also sarcastically, as if they weren’t in such a miserable state that moment.

—Aside of you not dying…You can be here for as long as you want, heal yourself with our medicine, eat our food, use our resources, do as you want and eventually leave. All you’d have to do is teach me a bit about what I could do in order to hunt a bit better and that’s it.

The offer was tempting, maybe staying there for a week or two in a somewhat secure place, and with a roof on top of all. That was already better than most of their nights after being in the run for quite some time. There was some doubt on their mind, though, as it wasn’t clear if their presence would be accepted.

—I’m interested by your offer, but don’t you think I would be pretty much hated here? I mean, I am flattered that I wasn’t finished off when your people found me, but it’s not like your community is very happy with my presence here.

And they were right, but Namjoon was too embarrassed to admit that, it was by pure luck the fact that he got to advocate for the kato’s life.

—I’m being honest with you, it’s this or being animal food. And I don’t want to force you to do anything, but at least accept the treatment we’re trying to give you. The others accepted giving you medicine…And I’m going to help you, okay? You won’t be there by your own. I do want you to be okay, aside of this whole teaching thing…

The kato chuckled at his words, part of them felt bad for hearing how the only community of humans who hadn’t directly tried to kill them already planned on leaving them at their own in the dangerous forest. While the other part of themselves knew they wouldn’t be wanted there for much longer. But damn, those cuts and punches were hurting just so much already.

—You know I kinda want to live, right? But I can’t even accept human medicine. It just doesn’t work on me properly.

Namjoon knew there would be some differences between humans and katos, but was ultimately afraid on how much it would cost for him to leave that creature alive.

—What do you mean with that?

The kato shrugged while stroking their arms, maybe searching for a comfort that just wasn’t there to begin with.

—Our kind does not react very well to human medicine. At the least it doesn’t do more than numb some pain, at most, it would be more painful or even allergic…We have some medicines made for ourselves, but I guess you guys don’t have any of those here…

The hundo felt sad, a bit more than what he wanted.

—I’m truly sorry. I wish I could find something else to help.

The feline didn’t answer for quite some time. They started looking at the floor, mentally debating on whether or not was it fine to say what they had in mind but, what could they lose? They knew they would die, what was being still cosmically debated was how soon that would happen.
Then, the kato looked at Namjoon, let a long sigh, and started talking, hoping for the best.

—There is something…I’m not sure how much could it help with you being just part hundo- hundo is it, right?

Namjoon raised his head a bit.

—Yeah, I think so, related to…dogs.

It was weird trying to clarify it at his old age of 27; it felt as if he was explaining himself to a kid.

—Well…you, particularly, could help me- Just come here, at my side.

They moved at one side of the bed, while patting the free side with their hand. Things were getting weird for Namjoon, but he went on their side anyway.
The bed was uncomfortable and small, giving how it wasn’t truly meant for relax due to being for a nursery. Yet it didn’t stop Namjoon from having his heart rushing in beats by being so close to the kato. They had a round, midly masculine face, with quite small whiskers that wouldn’t actually be noticeable unless you were at Namjoon’s dangerously close distance. Maybe it was for the hurting breaths of the individual, but he felt he was close enough to do something more, something Namjoon felt so worried of thinking when it came down to a damaged cat person resting by his side.

—What do you want me to do?

That was the only thing he could ask. The sudden caramel essence emanated from the cat again as their interlocked sight kept going. The eyes of the kato became more dilated as seconds went by, as if they were hypnotized by the longing gaze of each other.
After a deep, subconscious sigh, the so far nameless kato closed distance with Namjoon, and started pressing their head in his neck. Of course that took the hybrid by surprise with a sudden gasp. But what impressed him more was how the kato started sniffing and purring as how they began slowly moving their hands over Namjoon’s torso, pulling him closer to themselves and rocking up and down their nose on his neck.
Namjoon, of course, was frozen in place, still unavailable of moving his body, which annoyed his “partner” a bit.

—Please do something, touch me. I need it.

Those were the only words said, as they came out almost anxiously from the kato’s mouth. And as soon as they said that, something in Namjoon shifted, something that he hadn’t felt for quite some time.
The hundo suddenly grabbed the kato by their thighs as how he began rimming his whole body onto their small partner, taking them by surprise on how dominant his movements were. It was just that, the constant rimming and gasps from both of them as the kato felt their mobility coming back to their body, and so their hands went up to interlock at Namjoon’s neck, emanating soft noises that just altered the other man even more.
Namjoon felt uncomfortable in that position, so he just grabbed the smaller person with one of his strong arms, sitting the other one in the bed for support, and pressed the kato’s whole body over the mattress, trapping them with his legs as the purrs coming from their mouth continued. Namjoon didn’t kiss a single part of the kato’s body, but it almost felt as if he did just by making his mid open lips travel all the way from the feline´s chest to their neck, and finally their ear. The quick breaths leaving Namjoon’s mouth weren’t much help for the kato, who tought they would last a couple minutes, yet was left a whimpering mess as Namjoon’s big hands were traveling through their body with ease.
The only thing Namjoon could think about was how he thought there was something dirty on that; animalistic, would he say, being unable to name it as something else. The way their bodies gained more sweat as they became one, how he just wanted to press his hands on the poor feline’s body and almost claim them as his own. His whole physique took over the smaller one, and felt like he acted on impulse as the kato’s caramel scent became more prominent, more strong; Namjoon’s nostrils were sensitive enough to trick him like his partner truly was made of that sweet. He needed it, he felt like he could almost eat them if he wanted. And Namjoon was eager to do it.
Once he spotted the clean side of the kato’s neck, Namjoon directed his mouth onto it, letting his wet tongue slowly roll over the soft and pale neck. This only caused the feline to leave a proper moan at Namjoon’s actions, feeling like they could do more in order to feel as good again.
But the excitement was too short, as how Namjoon’s teeth began slightly growing into fangs, fangs he never thought he’d be having again. And that’s when he knew, he had to bite the kato. His animal told him to make them his, and that bite was the only way he could do it. However, right after he slightly pressed his teeth onto the kato’s neck, the feline gained some consciousness again.

—Wait. Please stop!

In a matter of seconds, Namjoon was pushed at the other side of the bed, being left sitting on his knees, unable to understand anything. The kato hid their legs from Namjoon, and cornered themselves in the opposite side of the bed. Taking quick breaths mixed in surprise, fear and some amusement.
Namjoon just started realizing what he was about to do, and a sudden shock of fear had stricken into his body. The kato quickly noticed how his eyes changed from a reddish color from a dark brown in a matter of seconds, and his fangs went onto their original place. They understood fast how Namjoon’s animal instinct was begging to be freed, and didn’t blame him for it, but they knew they had to be cautious.

—Oh my- I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry. I don’t know what happened to me. I swear I’ve never done something like this before. I-

As Namjoon looked at his hands in disbelief, ashamed for doing something out of the norm, acting on his impulses and just letting his animal be free, the kato quickly grabbed him by both of his wrists and looked him dead in the eye, trying to calm him from any panicked reactions.

—Hey. Look at me. It’s fine, don’t worry. You just seemed to have your animal…hidden, for quite some time. If you force it to hide is normal for you to get into outbursts.

Namjoon’s eyes began to water in embarrassment, he felt sick. It was just some mere seconds of letting go, yet he felt like he was violating all parts of the feline’s boundaries.

—I didn’t mean to harm you I’m sorry. I don’t want this to happen again.

For the first time in the night, the kato was the one who pitied Namjoon, so they softly stroked the hundo’s left cheek with their hand. And so, it did calm the bigger one.

—I know…But judging by this, it looks you truly don’t know much...You truly need help…

After a bit of contemplation, the kato knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but they both could start somewhere.
Some seconds of silence only lead to a chuckle from the smaller one, which led to a curious look from the hundo.

—I can’t believe I almost got marked by someone I don’t know their name.

—What does “marked” mean?

The kato’s eyes became bigger in surprise.

—Do you know anything at all?!

—Well, can I least know your Name? I’m Namjoon.

As he said his name, the feline let a laugh, and they weren’t sure if it was in fun or disbelief of what happened.

—I’m Yoongi. And I like to be addressed as a “he”. How about you, Namjoon?

—Oh, you mean?- I am a “he” too, I think. Yeah, a “he”.

Yoongi let a small grin draw itself on his mouth as he knew more things from that odd hybrid.

Maybe things weren’t going to be so bad those following weeks.

Chapter Text

The first days were quite…interesting. At least that’s what Namjoon thought.

Despite his mysterious aura and kind of sarcastic attitude, Yoongi was rather quick to break all tension after the first night they met. On top of all, he sometimes came off as friendly to Namjoon when it came down to helping him with duties such as planting, cooking, guarding the community’s entrance; even giving out some advice at hunting. But all help Yoongi could give was from the (in) commodity that was his small cabin, located at the far end of the community. At least Yoongi thanked there was running water and no humans who would hiss at him every time he went into medical checkups.
However, he also always felt with the constant need to kill every human who tried to find the right type of herbs for Yoongi, despite giving them all the right directions; their excuses would be “the muddy dirt”, other times “the weather”, or they would straight up say “nothing was there”. They never actually explained what the actual issue was. Of course Yoongi wasn’t dumb, as he knew they were mostly excuses, and Namjoon shyly admitted to him that they only went to search once; definitely not far from the community at all.

The day was as cold as ever, with the weather constantly battling on whether or not would it start snowing. Yoongi quietly got out of his bed as Namjoon supervised him, making sure he was able to walk properly. This caused some tension on the feline. The pain in his back was already stressing him enough; the awkwardness of being watched by Namjoon was, maybe, a little bit too much.

—Do you seriously have to look at me every time I get up? It’s not like if I’m going to escape like this.

The blond was amused, already feeling bad for looking for way too long.

—Sorry, I’m just making sure you’re able to move properly.

Yoongi left a sigh, as he reached for his walking stick, feeling like an old man in his last days. It was painful, knowing how uncertain future was for him, unable to have the smallest grasp on whether or not he would survive the next day. Still, wasn’t always life like this for him?
He quietly walked to the door at the end of the cabin, slowly moving his head towards Namjoon.

—Didn’t you want me to teach you a bit of hunting?

The taller one was startled, not knowing what to do.

—Wait, but you have to rest-

—Yeah, yeah, whatever. You need to actually learn something, and winter is coming soon so you’ll need to prepare. — Said Yoongi, opening the door, and already feeling a shiver down his spine, product of the sudden wave of cold. —C’mon, come with me. Because if you don’t, then I will be eaten alive by a bear and it’s gonna be your fault.

Namjoon immediately left his place and went to follow Yoongi, his hundo ears quickly moved forward and back as he made sure everything in the cabin was in place before going.

—What will I need? Should I grab something? —Namjoon asked, just wanting to make sure the hunting practice went as swiftly as it could.

—Well…If that “thing” going on in your head and lower back is serious —Yoongi said, pointing out his companion’s ears and fluffy tail. —Then all you’re gonna need is your hands, big boy.

The trip into the forest was slow, Yoongi could only move so much without the constant ache of his hurting body. Namjoon had to control himself from taking care of his companion every time he complained, as Yoongi desired to be left alone. And it was awkward, the tall man only guided himself from what the small person was doing; not knowing where to go, what to say, if he needed help, or if he had no intentions of needing it.
A few snowflakes started falling from the sky, as Namjoon felt the shivers of his body embrace him. He truly needed to warm himself up. However, his hundo instincts urged him to try warming Yoongi with his body as best as he could instead. Luckily, his logic still worked fine enough to tell Namjoon that the fur completely covering Yoongi’s body already kept him warm, of course.

After some quiet minutes, the kato stopped walking, raising the palm of his hand so his companion would stop too.

—Do we-?

—Shhh.

The kato suddenly put his index finger in the hundo’s lips, taking him by surprise. It took seconds for Namjoon to realize what peeked Yoongi´s interest; a rather large fox was quietly searching for berries inside a bush not so far from them. Quite a rare animal to come across these days.

—Wanna have a big meal for home tonight, big boy?-Said the feline with a small smirk forming on their mouth.

—So, do we just jump at it?

—That’s your first mistake. See how large that animal is?-It was way larger than what it seemed.-Big stomach, healthy physique. This thing has a stash near here, and it’s female, so we can assume it has offspring to feed.

—You say we should follow it?

—It takes time, but trust me. It will pay off.

Namjoon sighed. What Yoongi said made sense, but instructions were clear, he couldn’t be away from the village for too long. It was the constant debate on his mind with these arbitrary decisions that made him become a disliked member in the community in the first place. But his instinct told him it might be a good idea to trust the kato. So why not?
Namjoon left an almost inaudible “okay”. It better be good.

—What I will need you to do is to…let go. Okay? You are too tense. We’re hunting a fox, not a bear.- Yoongi’s hands swiftly went onto the taller man’s shoulders, pinching them a bit so Namjoon could calm himself. He mentally thanked him for that, as he was getting too nervous to function.

—Sorry. I get quite anxious sometimes.-He quickly muttered.

—It’s alright- The kato sighed, knowing he should take baby steps with him.-The worst that could happen is that the fox runs away, but we can catch something else.- He reassured Namjoon, who was already forming a pout on his mouth.-How much do you tend to let go when you hunt?.

—Not much, honestly. We’re many people when we go out so we catch lots of small things easily.

—But you scare the bigger prey. They know a bunch of humans are coming.-Said Yoongi, while grabbing Namjoon’s hand.-But they don’t know a hundo is hunting them.

He guided the taller man’s hand to the dirt. Namjoon wasn’t sure if he was more shocked by how he was directly touching the dirty earth below them, or how secure Yoongi’s touch felt on his hand. He knew what he was doing.

—Feel the path beneath you and the fox. You can tell is not that far, right?

—Yes. Less than two hundred meters. Can get there in a sprint.-The reaction time amazed Yoongi. It would have taken him about five minutes to guess their distance.

—And the wind?

A cold breeze flew through his nape. Too chilling for his liking.

—South east, not that strong but it’s freezing. The terrain is quite sturdy.

The smile across Yoongi’s face kept firm as Namjoon alternated between watching him and the floor. He moved his hand to the blond’s chin, directing his face to the animal.

—Remember. Don’t take your eyes out of your prey. Or else you’ll lose focus.-He advised, as Namjoon scanned the fox and its surroundings. The distance between each other was getting smaller-Don’t you like the smell of it? I bet you would like to taste it raw.-Yoongi whispered onto his hunting partner’s ear.

Shivers went down his spine as Yoongi muttered those words. He didn’t know if it was the memory of the night he first went into the cat’s cabin, or how he missed so much having a proper meal. But his inner animal was speaking, and the prey wouldn’t wait for long. Namjoon knew that Yoongi wanted him to let out the hundo side of his. But was it safe?

—I’m not sure if I can let go this much. I haven’t gone “feral” for so long.

—Is that how you call it? There wasn’t a single moment for me where I wasn’t feeling like this.

—That’s good-Sighed Namjoon as his grip on the dirt strengthened.

The smell of that fox went directly into the nostrils of the hundo, and there wasn’t a single thing he wanted to do more on earth right now besides wanting to take a big bite out of the animal. But he needed to wait. Wait for the right moment, where they could follow the helpless fox into its nest, swiftly take it out, bring the corpse back home and before he could think about it have the best meal of his life. Namjoon could almost see himself tasting that sweet stake as his stomach growled and-

Wait.

His stomach just growled.

The noise was too loud.

It clearly alerted the fox.

—Shit.

As the cussing left his mouth, the pair could already see the fox running away from them, knowing they are searching for it.

—Run.-Yoongi blurted out.

—But it’s escaping-

—It’s going to its nest, follow it!

As the kato said those words, Namjoon hopped out of their hiding spot and started running towards the animal. There were several rocks and logs on the path that were making his chase difficult.

—Use your hands to move too if necessary. Don’t worry about me; I’ll catch up to you. Now go!

That advice was the best thing anyone could have told him, because it helped shortening the distance between Namjoon and the fox by a great margin. But what the hell was he doing? Running in all fours like a damn dog? If the rest of the village saw him doing this he wouldn’t know the end of the jokes they’d make about it. But that didn’t matter. As they went farther down the forest, Namjoon slowed his pace for a few seconds to make the fox think it had the lead. It quickly paid off as the creature diverted from its original track to a different place; a small waterfall not far from there. Quick thinking helped Namjoon realize the fox had its hideout there, so it would be wise for him to slow down for a bit, making sure the fox, thinking it was left alone, went into hiding so it couldn’t have the chance to escape.
Namjoon let some time pass. Not saying a word, not moving an inch, and just directly watching that point next to the waterfall. The pair moved way further than the allowed hunting grounds, but that did not matter right now, as the bait was on its best spot. It was small cave, maybe too small for someone like him, but just big enough to have at least one fox ad a stash of supplies ready for the winter. Yoongi was nowhere to be seen, but that was just what he needed. He had to do it alone.

The hundo started slowly moving to the hideout, going into the water despite the freezing temperature; it would wash most of his body odor, making it harder for his prey to catch him, he was going to worry about that later. The water dripping from his hands and shoes muted the sound of his steps. The sun was quickly setting down, as he became a mere shadow under the sound of the waterfall. As he was getting closer to the hideout, the smell of the animals had impacted him. Yes. There were many. He would have such dine tonight. After a long time of eating berries and homegrown plants it would be the first time he had a proper meal with meet in weeks.
His claws started growing slowly. His stance became more feral-like as he started approaching the cave. The hundo was feeling as if nothing in the world could stop him right now.
That was until he saw something at the cave. It was a fox; quite smaller than the one he was chasing. Could be its child? Could be a mate? He didn’t care about it. He cared about how it was sleeping peacefully, completely unaware of the big creature preying a few meters beside it. Namjoon felt in control for the first time in his life, and it was so gratifying knowing that the life of that little fox was on his hands.
He let himself wait for a few moments by the stream to make sure they were all asleep, and the only thing making noise were his thoughts. The hundo didn’t want to bother with another chase. It was already very late for them, as the moon started rising.
He looked down at how his soft nails became thick claws, ripping apart the ground beneath him. Has he ever had a chance to hurt something with them? They were pointy and untouched by the lack of use.
It was time for him to test them out.

About an hour passed and Yoongi had lost track of Namjoon. A faint hint of his smell was all he could feel. His leg and torso was hurting so bad by the running. But it felt meaningless. It was dark, and Namjoon could get lost easily. However, hope arrived when he saw the waterfall not so far from him. The footsteps left by the hundo left a notorious mark down the path. Luckily, he didn’t teach him yet how to hide from another predator, letting him go through all steps taken by his partner.

—Please tell me he’s not dead.-Yoongi muttered to himself as his instinct made him sense the other man was close.

Yoongi was slowly scanning the area as he heard…crying?

Was Namjoon crying?

It was not a cry of fear, but rather some miserable whimpers. So he knew danger was off the list. As he approached to the entrance of the small cave, some droplets of blood across the entrance helped Yoongi realize what was going on.
The faint light of the moon showed Namjoon sat with dried blood painting his mouth and his muddy white shirt. His large jacket was at the corner of the cave, poorly covering what could be the bodies of his prey.
Yoongi quickly looked at his partner, then at the jacked. He quickly ignored the crying man, as he went to take out the jacket to reveal what was lying under there. Namjoon let out a gasp as he covered his eyes from what he has done.
The bodies of two large foxes and a tiny one were resting on the cold stone. The large ones had firm bites around their throats, indicating an almost painless death. However, the small one had several marks of violence around its body. Disoriented cuts were decorating its belly that showed how the fox’s internal organs were out. With half of its face was chopped off and the tense nerves of its contorted corpse were clear signs that the little one didn’t face the same destiny as its parents. You couldn’t eat that, the body was too scared to cook well.
Yoongi’s sight transferred to Namjoon, who was curling up in fear of what could happen. He ruined it.

—I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.- Namjoon muttered fast to himself rather than directing his words to Yoongi. He gave in to his feral instincts and ruined what could’ve been a good meal, the one that would make the rest of his clan to respect him as a hunter. And how dare to kill the offspring of that animal? How ruthless was Namjoon that he attacked them in cold blood? He enjoyed it! For fucks sake, he killed a child. It was an animal, but it was a child. It felt closer to him than anything in its life. How could he?

—Good hunt.

What?

The sobs stopped for a second, as the hundo lift his head a bit to watch is partner across him, starting to grab the bodies and putting them in a bag.

—You did pretty well. But you got carried out. The meat of this wont taste as good as the big ones.- The cold words left Yoongi’s mouth as he grabbed some dead mouse and plants from the back of the cave. Some of said plants would help Yoongi treat his wounds- You have to kill them by either breaking their neck or a strong hit to their heads. Aren’t you used to do this stuff?

That question took Namjoon by surprise.

—I usually just catch- just catch them or immobilize them. Someone else…ends them up. They don’t want me to have them for myself.

Anger had ridden through Yoongi’s veins. He could tell Namjoon was used as a guard dog for the rest of that damn village. He knew they were scared of the two of them, but mostly Namjoon. And how they could not? He was a time bomb by how poorly he was treated. Nobody had to tell him that, he saw it. How he could barely eat meat when he needed to, all the times he had to hide his ears and tail, how casually mentioned the day before that he had to let go some of the supplies and rations assigned to him so Yoongi could have a steady meal every night. The kato thought they should be grateful that they found him right on time. Because without someone like him, sooner or later, the hundo would go on a rampage and take out everyone inside those walls.

After he stored everything they needed. Yoongi bend down in front of the sobbing Namjoon to grab him by his chin and make them lock eyes with each other.

—What you did was not wrong. You could have handled that a bit better, but those foxes would’ve ended up as our meals one way or another.

—But I didn’t take out the kid properly.

—It’s not a kid, it’s an animal. It’s not like you and me. But now you know how to do it now. Right?-The bigger one nodded in agreement. Yoongi slowly caressed the cheek of the man in front of him, as he wiped out the faint tear going down his face.- You did very well. I mean it.

Yoongi sat next to him, suddenly starting to purr inside Namjoon’s neck, which made him jump in a gasp.

—It’s okay. It won’t be like that one time. You need it. It will help you calm down.-He muttered, as his hands reached for his cheek and starting to make movements with his thumb, gently stroking it.

As Namjoon’s breath started to stabilize, he felt dumb. He did not feel as a inhuman killing machine, he did not feel as a ruthless killer. Namjoon felt like a child; like a kid who just had broken an expensive vase, a kid who got a bad grade. It’s not like he wanted to. He was an adult who already left those years gone by for a long time, but felt as if nobody let him live as how he truly felt. What made him so different from the others that made him be treated like that?
None of that mattered. Yoongi’s touch felt as if it was everything he needed right now. So he quickly broke into a hug where they could both feel each other. He didn’t feel the sense of unfamiliarity that came along with humans. Maybe he will never be able to meet someone exactly like him, with all the boxes checked out. But he knew that Yoongi, as someone of his kind, came pretty close to it.

Chapter Text

The kato and the hundo were given more permissions than usual by their community. At least they usually let Yoongi leave his shack now.
Hunting was the chance Namjoon and Yoongi could get to bond most of the time, since the kato no longer required medical checkups as the herbs they collected helped him recover almost fully. It took some time for Namjoon to fully grasp how to humanely kill animals without triggering a panic attack. And with Yoongi’s help, he started to manage some of his most feral moments. But the euphoria that came along with running in the wild and hunting with him always invaded the hundo’s thoughts.
Both men came back from their usual ranger duties with a few animals carried by Namjoon on his back; a large deer, some rabbits, and a handful of mice in a smaller bag. Yoongi relied on just holding the bag with plants and mushrooms. But his hunger got the best of him as he kept chewing a mice’s foot on their way onto the small village. Someone among the group of people guarding the entrance whistled at them, causing both inhumans’ ears to perk up.

—Guess someone has tamed the cat after all!-Screamed Miseon from afar, resting her hands on the rifle half her size. She was sat in a small chair on top of the huge pillar that separated the civilization from wilderness. Guarding the gates was her favorite job, since barely anyone bothered the clan, so she could just rest for the day until her shift ended.

—More like I tamed this dog first.-Said Yoongi to himself, knowing he did most of the work. Something that didn’t go unnoticed by the guy who was approaching them.

—What did you say, Kitty?-Blurted out Euiseok with his characteristic cocky attitude. Both men turned their eyes on him with distinct reactions mixed with awkwardness and disdain.–Guess this thing made you its bitch after all. You’ve been following it like a damn poodle all week, Joonie.

Yoongi gave him a cold look, while Namjoon could only form a crooked smile. He hated that nickname. Annoying the hundo was usual from Euiseok, since Namjoon refused to complain about it. They were practically raised together, as they were born just a couple of years apart, Namjon being the youngest. They used to be inseparable when they were kids, and sometimes they secretly miss it, too. However, they naturally drifted apart as Namjoon started presenting his more feral characteristics once he hit puberty. It’s not like he changed much, either. Namjoon just guessed it was no fun playing the mascot with his childhood friend anymore.

—Man, calm down, okay? He was just teaching me some hunting tips, that’s all.-He shrugged, as they all started to walk towards the communal kitchen.

—I was just joking. Just make sure you don’t start peeing on trees with one leg out, okay? It’s already big fuzz the fact that you’re the one from the community dealing with this cat.-That caused a long sigh coming from Yoongi. It was tiring to hear other people talk about him as if he was invisible.

—It’s not like my presence makes much of a difference, given how I barely eat your food and you keep me in a shack away from everyone-Commented the kato, trying to avoid looking at Euiseok.

Then, the pure-human swiftly grabbed Namjoon’s bag of food, leaving the latter confused.

—I’ll carry them for you. Now if you pardon me.-Said Euiseok, snatching Yoongi’s bags. This didn’t bother him at all.-Chaewon said she needed the both of you in the nursery. Think it was for a checkup or something.

—Thanks I guess.-Muttered Namjoon, as they started walking in the other direction. Uncomfortable was the right word to describe it, as he knew Euiseok was one of the people who offered to trade Yoongi for supplies back when they met each other. His doggish ears fell down from a bit of shame, as he wished Euiseok took some time to actually understand Yoongi. Whom he thought was “kinda cool”, in his own words.-Sorry for that. He can be an asshole sometimes.

—It’s okay, at least he’s not actively trying to kill me. So that’s a starter.-The smaller one shrugged off, now starting to think about where were they going-Was Chaewon the one who patched me out at my first day…? Well, the one who stitched me before I woke up.

—Yeah, she did a pretty good job, honestly. I think she mentioned that she used to work with people like us once. I dunno.

“Us”? Of course that meant animal people and hybrids. Namjoon already knew there was a clear distinction between “them” and “us”. But saying it out loud felt strange. As if he was giving himself the title of an outsider.
Once they entered the nursery, they both found the older woman sat down, completing a list of tasks already done that day. Her height barely reached Yoongi’s, but there was something in her presence that made any stranger know she was someone respected among the Kimgru clan. Maybe was it because she was in her early fifties, or how she knew to handle pretty much every wound known to man. But she lacked the patience for someone from the likes of Euiseok annoying her. Any tension between the village and the two inhumans couldn’t bother her at all, so she was one of the few pure-blooded humans who wouldn’t tear apart Namjoon and Yoongi at every chance she’d got. Chaewon just worked to earn her plate of food and a roof to sleep under, that was a blessing these days, given the wrecked state of the world right now. Yoongi barely remembered it, but she had to cut his tail shortly after the clan took him in. The lack of resources to let it heal properly, and it felt awful.

—Didn’t see you there. Glad you two arrived on time. ‘Was just about to go into my break.-As they sat down the two chairs on the opposite side of her desk, the strong smell of cigarettes on her body invaded Yoongi’s nostrils and prompted him to start coughing for a bit. Namjoon just trained himself to ignore the strong odor due to his sensitive nose. However, he quickly noticed how the kato’s smell got toned down by several levels because of the effects of the homegrown tobacco. He’ll keep that in mind.-Sorry for the smell. Can’t work around it even if I wanted to.- Said Chaewon, as she was storing her papers and started digging up for something in her private locker.-Did Eui’ told you why I brought you two here?

—I think it was a checkup.-Hinted Yoongi, regaining his composure.-But I’m pretty sure you said I was fine to be on my own now, right?

A bit of worry came into Yoongi’s mind. Will these humans actually let him go? He wouldn’t mind staying for a while longer to take advantage of their resources and get to participate in other shenanigans with Namjoon in the meantime. But every day he spent with the Kimgru meant his chances of escaping could lower. The clan was already noticing how “useful” he was.

—Well, yeah. But the leaders said they needed more time to observe you before you would get released into the wild again. I think they wanted to talk you two about it tomorrow.

—What do you mean?-Asked Namjoon in curiosity. He was already getting used to be with Yoongi. He couldn’t just leave now.

—I don’t know, kid. You know these guys are never direct with their orders. I just know I have to make sure one more person is healthy for now.-Chaewon admitted, as she placed in the desk a small bottle with a clear liquid, and a tiny jar with the name “Yoongi” on it. The word “Cat” was poorly crossed out from its label with marker.-Namjoon, it’s your monthly vaccine time. Did you take your pills?-Said the woman while grabbing a pair of medical gloves.

That question took Namjoon by surprise, he had completely forgotten about it.

—I was about to take it before bed-Said nervously, as his tail unknowingly started moving out of anxiety. Chaewon’s eyes diverted towards the fluffy limb, and raised an eyebrow. The feline left a hint of a smile leave his face after seeing that. Was he always so bad at lying?

—All right, I guess I’ll pretend to believe you.-She said, taking a syringe and charging it with the mix of vitamins and painkillers. Namjoon awkwardly took out his jacked and rolled out his shirt so Chaewon could clean his bicep and swiftly inject him with the medicine.-You have to thank your little friend over there. The herbs he found the other day will also work wonders for you if they are paired with your usual meds.-As soon as she pushed the medicine into his veins, a small “Ouch” left the hundo’s mouth.-And about Yoongi.-She said, directing her gaze towards him.-You’ll…have to take one of these pills every week. Just some mandatory bullshit from the leaders until we can know you’re completely healthy.

Chaewon nodded at the small jar in her desk, so Yoongi grabbed it and started examining it carefully. The woman clearly wasn’t happy with that.

—What is it?

—Just…medicine-Said, dragging the words as if she was trying to convince him to digest a bomb.-It’s kind of the same type Namjoon takes. I dunno how much you’ll stay here but I gave you a considerable amount. After the first month of intake you’ll have to reduce your dosing to a monthly. Okay?-She sounded more robotic than her usual.

—I will.-He wouldn’t. They both could tell this was a speech given by her superiors, as she was obligated to communicate that but not forced to verify if he will do it. Namjoon was oblivious to this. It didn’t take much time for Yoongi to figure out that doctor didn’t want him ingesting that, and probably wasn’t happy with Namjoon taking it either.

The hundo decided to spend dinner with Yoongi instead of the rest of the clan. It wouldn’t make much of a difference since he’d eat his plate very quickly and remain silent for the rest of dinner unless spoken to.
The dim lights decorated the scenery of both men dining on a tiny table, with Namjoon usually moving his tail from side to side, and Yoongi barely moving the tip of his cut tail. A recurrent question would clash the silence every now and then, and the hundo took his chance to clear some of his concerns.

—How did you end up here?-He asked, already finishing his plate while Yoongi was cross-sited, toying along with his claws.

—I was running away from a creepy guy. Found a bear and almost killed me.-That wasn’t a very satisfying response, and the kato noticed it immediately.-This…man. He used to hold me hostage with other people like us, you know? Went from town to town trying to auction us like we were some pigs for butchering.-As Yoongi began to explain, his face was already cringing from the awful memories.-We were too doped most of the time to know what was going on.

—So you were with others.-Namjoon’s curiosity started to rise, wondering how someone like him could end in that situation.-Was there someone…like me?

—As in hundo or hybrid?

—Asking for both, actually.

—Well. Not exactly that. But I did briefly meet a pure-blooded hundo once. In the wild, actually.-Namjoon’s ears quickly perked up.-An older woman, I think. The guy who captured me was trying to get her too. But she was shot, and I was too out of my senses to know what happened after it. I’ve never seen her again after that.-And so the hundo’s ears fell off again in frustration.-About a hybrid…

—So you’ve met a hybrid.

—You bet I did.-A smile quickly formed around Yoongi’s lips. Namjoon thought it was one of his firsts since he arrived there.-This very sweet Toshqan- well, “rabbit” hybrid as humans would call them. Their name was Wumuti, and it was one of the few people I felt I could trust after in the middle of all this shit.-His tone became more melancholic as usual, with a dept that made it sound almost like a purr.-They were…a friend. And a very good one indeed.-His eyes darted onto the distance as memories of what was a dear friend flooded in. Namjoon had the gut feeling they might have been more than that.-‘Was also a bit silly like you. You know? I don’t know what hybrids have with being socially inept…One would think they would be better since they have animal blood in them, but also having human social skills…-A deep sigh came out of him. Yoongi began to curl up. Hints of sadness were carrying his speech.

—What…happened to them?-Once Namjoon asked, Yoongi’s face transformed into a frown. He wished he didn’t do it.

—We were about to be sold together.-A look of surprise emanated from the hundo.-Wumuti made a…big and stupid plan to break us free from that hag. Only I got out. It looks like they didn’t.-Dissapointed wasn’t the right word to describe his feelings. It was anger, hate, pain, frustration. Yoongi could spend all day thinking on how much it angered him losing the person who he thought would help him take over the world, maybe even forming a pack of people like them, too. But that was daydreaming too much on his behalf. The likes of him didn’t have that kind of privilege to do so.

The kato’s plate of food was already cold, eaten by a half. Toying with his spoon around would only make more of a mess than it already was with the depressing atmosphere that decorated the room. He pushed his plate next to Namjoon’s.

—I’m not that hungry anymore. You should heat and eat the rest if-The hundo didn’t let him finish his sentence, as he started practically throwing every remaining piece of meal in his mouth.-Fuck. Should have let you repeat.

—Sorry. I got carried away.-His mouth was stained with sauce and a frown.-Are you still sad about them?

—Well, yeah. It didn’t happen too long ago. But I already had the time to cry about it on my own. And…-Yoongi quickly bent over the table, locking eyes with him as he cleaned some of the sauce of Namjoon’s lips with his thumb, to then lick it himself.-At least I have you now.-A small smile was growing on both of their faces. Namjoon’s tail was going like crazy.

Once they cleaned the dishes, Namjoon was ready to go to his cabin for the night. Almost packed up, he was gently opening the door, about to step a foot outside. That was until a hint of caramel scent traveled to him like a hum. This time was more bare than usual, like a soft plea. But was it? He turned around to see a quiet Yoongi, sat at the edge of the bed, as he was rolling his bottle of pills around the mattress. Namjoon swear he thought he would ask him to stay, but was too proud to admit it.

—Is it okay if I stay the night with you?-For once, Yoongi was taken by surprise by that question. Not only because Namjoon asked, but because Yoongi wanted him to.

—Yes. Please do.-His odor became stronger, a pout came to him and looked like he was begging for it. Namjoon immediately closed the door and ran into the tiny bed meant just for Yoongi. Both immediately broke into a hug, knowing it was very needed.

—Please stop taking those pills.-Yoongi suddenly blurted out. Namjoon was caught off guard by that.

—What do you mean?

—I’ve been into too much shit to know what they’re making us take is not good for either of us. Take a hint!-Warned Yoongi, as he quickly grabbed a pill of his own bottle and showed it to Namjoon. The smell had immediately struck him; it was the exact same composition of the stuff he was forced to take.-It’s not the exact same component that bastard used to drug me- way more lightly than that. But these are doing no good to you.

Namjoon did not want to hear that. Why would they let him take those pills if they weren’t good for him? He didn’t feel as how Yoongi described being in drugs. He felt healthy, he felt conscious. He felt…like nothing was going on inside him. Namjoon never lashed out after starting taking them. He had more control over his big emotions in moments of stress because of that. But the constant feeling that something was kicking on his insides, trying to get into the surface and spread across his entire body, wanting to react as fast as he usually thought. Was he trapped? It felt like a trap, and he was going out of air very fast.

—Why do you not want me to take this?

—I…-Yoongi had no words for that. Why did he care in the first place? He knew Namjoon would not die from that, but once he realized what those pills contained, he couldn’t bear the thought of the hundo experiencing the same pain he once went through. How Yoongi had once become a gone version of himself, with lack of thought and any action.

—You…don’t want me looking like you. When you were captured that guy, right?

—I would never forgive myself for it if I let you keep taking those.-Finally admitted the Kato, tossing the bottle of pills to the corner of the room.-Dude, I care about you. Okay? I just can’t stand to see you as a shell of how you truly should be. Would it be because of the pills, how you hide your ears under a beanie, how everyone treats you like a stupid child! That’s not how you’re supposed to be!

—But what can I be?!-Namjoon raised his voice, grabbing Yoongi by his shoulders but not too tight.-I’m too stupid to be a human, but too afraid to be a hundo. I’ve never met a single person who was like me in my whole life! Everyone had told me to “act nice” and “be useful”.-His eyes began to be watered-And...Then...you! You come into my life to say I can do so much more, tell me they’ve been feeding me bullshit from years and I hoped- I hoped…

—Hoped what?

—That I could be more like you! So smart, have your way around problems, be a good hunter. But I will never be as good as you.-His head dropped onto Yoongi’s shoulder, as well as his hand started stroking the man’s chest. Yoongi’s hand slowly diverted to grab Namjoon’s. The bigger one raised his sight, interlocking it with the smaller one.

—You don’t have to be me, or anyone else for that matter. There could be thousands of hybrid hundos, but there’s only one you. That’s perfect as it is-Yoongi confessed. His thumb gently stroked Namjoon’s hand.-You are curious about everything, you care about everyone- Even the tiniest animal in the forest is something important for you. Remember how we meet? You pleaded for my life! And I was a complete stranger for you.

He was holding dearly into that affirmation. He just wished someone had told him that sooner than later. But he had someone. That person was standing right there and then, caring about him in ways he’d never think about ever since he came into reason. And he may not know about it, but Yoongi did start to care about him too.

—I’m sorry for acting this…dense.

—Don’t be.-The tenderness of his eyes was an enchantment to Namjoon. He wishes he could admire them forever, but he knew he had to live life in the meantime. Still, could he be granted this night at least?-We should…just…go sleep already.

—Please-Namjoon nodded rapidly, and the pair began to take off their clothes. Both kept their shirts and underwear only. The shack was warm enough so they wouldn’t need to hide much skin- or fur, for that matter.

As they were trying to make some space, so they could both sleep decently, Namjoon suddenly fell. His heavy body made a large sound as he stomped the floor.

—Ouch.

—Shit! Are you okay, man?-Worryingly asked Yoongi.

—I’m okay. I’m okay. Just a small scratch-He said, clumsily getting up and stretching his body, sitting again on top of the bed. Suddenly, the feline got an idea.

—I can be on top of you.-It didn’t take much for Namjoon to process that phrase, as it caused both his ears and tail to perk up in shock.

—What?!-That word almost came out in a scream.-I know we’re kind of close. But I dunno if that close yet.-Warned Namjoon with precaution.

He wasn’t completely opposed to the idea, in fact he had been thinking about it for some time when he was on his own- Wait. No. He wasn’t, he was feeling perfectly normal about his feline friend. And Namjoon wasn’t daydreaming of being physically close to Yoongi. Of course.

—It’s something normal with…our people-Began to explain Yoongi.-Seen how animals just lay on top of each other when sleeping?

—Well. I think I get it.-He felt the same awkwardness as someone being teach simple math again. Most weird mannerisms shown in the kato would easily be equivalent of those of a cat. But his exposition to katos before Yoongi’s appearance was practically zero. It’s not like he used to hang around cats at all, he wasn’t pretty much of a fan of doing so.-Then I…just let you lay on top of me?-That felt as the weirdest question he had asked in his entire life. But there wasn’t an inch of him that wasn’t weird already.

—Are you okay with it? We could manage something else if it’s not of your liking…-

—No! Don’t get me wrong. I…-He started scratching his head, with hints of nervousness.-I was never used to be this physically close to someone, like ever.

Yoongi started getting closer to his friend, pressing his hand against Namjoon’s chest, slowly guiding him so he could lie down on top of the pillow. Both men were awfully silent. Namjoon admired his companion’s hand; covered with a thin coat of fur, with visibly pale skin underneath it. It was much smaller than his. Nobody would think it was as strong as it actually was. When moving him with such confidence, one could guess Yoongi was the bigger one of the pair.

—Now you will-Claimed Yoongi with a faint smile, it drawn Namjoon to do the same.

As Namjoon started adjusting himself on the bed, Yoongi gave him plenty of space so he could get comfortable. He then slowly started climbing up the bed, and onto Namjoon’s body. Both of their breaths were deep, with fear of making the wrong step. The hundo instinctually grabbed his companion, and pulled him closer. Their noses were barely touching, and their breaths were clashing with one another. Yoongi’s strong scent made its presence again; poor Namjoon could only hide his face under the kato’s neck, and the latter resigned to start lowering his own body, quietly stroking different parts of Namjoon’s torso. He felt like a feather that landed on his chest.

—Calm down, big boy. It’s not like I’m going to steal your innocence or anything-Playfully claimed the feline.

—I wouldn’t be mad if you did.-Blurted out Namjoon, taking a deep breath. Yoongi could only let out a small chuckle,

—Your animal is speaking. Don’t get too carried away!-Warned, interlocking eyes with the other man.

Namjoon’s hands aimed to reach Yoongi’s back. The line between tension and absurdity for him was so thin he couldn’t tell the difference. His hand was slowly navigating on top of the kato’s lower back. Their size difference wasn’t that noticeable, but Namjoon could swear Yoongi’s body was just the right fit for him in that moment.
Yoongi felt very comfortable. Maybe a bit more than he should, but it felt so right. His hand kept traveling around Namjoon’s body; he wanted to test how much the grip he had on Yoongi would grow. He traced around the other man’s thigh in circles, almost like a drawing, making the hundo become tense; He didn’t understand why it hurt so much, but neither could understand why he wanted it to keep going. His grip on Yoongi got tighter.

—It…hurts…-Muttered Namjoon between breaths.

—I thought you would like this.-Whispered his companion, without any means to stop. Instead, he just put his whole hand onto it. The circling movements became wider, almost as if he wanted to reach something else.

He wished he had taken those pills, maybe then he would have the ability to calm himself down. But did it matter? He was almost completely out of it already. Namjoon could only close his eyes for some seconds; he was running out of air, and it was all Yoongi’s fault. If he didn’t do something right now, it would be too late for him. He did not want to attempt the same thing as he did on their first night.
A quick hand stopped Yoongi from going any further. His body felt like crazy, and both of them could see it. It wasn’t strong enough to hurt Yoongi, but firm enough to indirectly tell him “Enough”. He carried his face onto his, touching foreheads again. His barely opened eyes and heavy breathing barely represented a fraction of his overstimulation. Yoongi, on the other hand, understood this completely. It wasn’t the right time to keep going, but you bet the intention to eventually venture into unknown territory was already there.

—I don’t want anything weird now.-Pleaded Namjoon.

—I’m sorry.-Said Yoongi with a hint of shame. Maybe was it too much?

—Don’t be. I just…can’t help but feel strange. You know?-Muttered between breaths. He didn’t want to make Yoongi think he invaded any part of his body. On the contrary, he has never felt this warm before-I have to get used to these kinds of acts.

—I got carried away, too.-Shyly admitted Yoongi, now realizing his companion didn’t have as much experience as him. He slowly drifted from his face, and laid on his chest.-Just let me know when you’re ready.

—For what?

—Anything you’d like to do, honestly.

—Please remain here.-Asked Namjoon, breaking into a hug. He knew half as much as he wanted; he too, was too naïve to understand what being close to someone meant. He just knew he didn’t want to go through this alone.

—I will-Answered Yoongi, as they both began to close their eyes.