I asked Imeo the same question and was just as disappointed when I thought that it wouldn't work. Imeo said that it does work, at least most of the time.
I am opting for the V4 because of the wider space for
coils, since VIR only accepts titanium. I have titanium coils in my Ithaka, but it is tight. From what I understand, it's going to be like a Penelope-sized Tilemahos.
As for wicks, most people seem to be using cotton or rayon cellucotton with the titanium because of how quickly it wicks liquid. I've personally tried both (I'm using cellucotton right now). Not a fan. Might give silica wicks a try with the titanium.
Proteus does come with VIR, included in the price.
Silver, the Penelope V4 will only be 79 euros. It's going to be much smaller, built with Proteus in mind, and only requires resistance wire. Hopefully they will be ready the same time as Proteus. Imeo said he only has a couple hundred ready, so we'll see what happens.