Ashes and Cinders

This is a Star Wars the Clone Wars RP blog. This is may become NSFW, so 18+ warning. Cinder's bio can be read here. Please read the Code of Conduct before starting an RP with me.

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I love you too… I… I can’t live without you… so don’t die.” He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost’s hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan’s hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. “So… you two?” He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. “Good.” He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan looked at the healer and smiled at the question. „Mine…“, he said softly and his voice was filled with pain but also so much love. „My love…“ He leaned his head up and pressed his forehead against Ghost’s. The healer explained Ghost what he had to do to keep the wound clean. It would involve at least three changes of bandages and wound cleaning. He just wanted to know if the man was up for that task.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost was. He, like all clones, learned fast so he knew he would be able to do it. He then settled by his lover and kissed K'Wan’s forehead and pressed their faces close. He was afraid of losing him. He loved him so much and was so glad they had finally come home. “When you feel better love… we’ll bond.” He whispered softly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan chuckled. „Already thinking of that again…“, he said softly and stroked his back. He then finally noticed Ghost’s hands and frowned. „From digging?“, he asked and carefully took on of Ghost’s hands in his, gently kissing it. „I’m sorry you had to do this for me… and I’m sorry you had to worry for my stupid ass.“ The healer smiled at them and laid a blanket over them. „You should stay here for the night… if your fever has gone down a bit by tomorrow you can go home and heal there.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost nodded to K'Wan and looked up at the healer. He would stay as long as he was allowed and he would keep his lover company. He refocused on K'Wan and kissed their hands. “It was worth it, love.” He whispered and gave him a sweet look. “You’re here and safe.” He added and just curled up next to K'Wan and just held his hand. “I love you.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The healer gently touched Ghost’s back. „You can stay here if you like… stay in the bed as long as he’s awake and then you can have one of my cots if you want… the rain has gotten worse since you came here, it would be cruel to send you home.“, he told him and then left. K’wan smiled at Ghost. „Let the healer get a look of your hands… with our salves it should heal faster…“, he said softly.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost looked at his hands and the blisters and cuts. “In a bit… I want to stay by your side until you fall asleep.” He murmured and kissed his cheek. As he did the skins at the entrance was pulled aside and the Queen stepped inside. Ghost was so surprised to see her that he fell out of the bed. The queen chuckled and then watched him silently as Ghost pulled himself up and into a humble bow. “My queen.” He said and she acknowledged him with a nod. “You have returned.” She stated and Ghost bowed again. “Yes, my Queen, sadly in a bit of a mess.” He replied and she reached out and grabbed his arm to look at his cut hands. “So I see.” She said and let him go. “What happened?” She demanded of K'Wan. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan groaned and tried to sit up but the pain rushing through his body made it impossible. „My queen… I would bow to you… but my body is incapable of performing such a noble gesture at the moment, I beg your forgiveness.“, he told her and pulled away the sheet, showing her his bandages. „After we witnessed the funeral of Ghost’s former General and lover, he and I went out to find the mad Serin who had killed them…“ He swallowed hard. „It turned out to be my son, my queen. Lan… the boy who had been captured by the blue… we fought and I killed him…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

She stared at him, behind her one of her pretty servants gasped. He covered his mouth dramatically. She seemed to be contemplating something. “This is the Mad One the hunters have been speaking of? The one that attacked the newcomers settlement in the past?” She asked and Ghost nodded. “Yes, my Queen.” He replied humbly. “Then I am grateful, K'Wan and I am very sorry for your son.” She added. “Rest and recover.” She turned to the healer. “See to Ghost’s hands.” She said and left them and the healer hurried up to Ghost and looked over his hands. “Young man, you should have said something.” He admonished and set to administer care to them. Soon he finished and left Ghost by K'Wan again. “That was… exciting.” Ghost said surprised. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Exciting?“, K’Wan smirked painfully and stroked Ghost’s back. „The queen is just another Serin, sure she holds a big title, but underneath she is a caring female.“ He smiled at him softly and pulled him closer to kiss him. „Or do you mean something else?“ K’Wan hurt.. both physically and emotionally. He had been forced to kill his son… the son he had abandoned and left behind for years.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I worry she’d blame me for… for almost losing you, love.” He told K'Wan and kissed him back. He stroked his face and pressed their foreheads together. “I’ll be with until the day I draw my last breath, K'Wan. I’ll try to keep you safe from heartache until that day.” He whispered, tears in his eyes. He didn’t like seeing how hurt K'Wan was. He didn’t like seeing how his heart was breaking over what he had to do. He didn’t like how he felt relieved that K'Wan’s son was dead… that Ilya was avenged. He felt ill at the thought of digging that grave for Lan’s body when he’d killed Ilya… But he would never ever tell K'Wan that. He hurt quite enough as it was. “I love you.” He whispered and placed his hand over K'Wan’s heart. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I love you too, Ghost.“, he said softly. „Now… you’re the only family I have…“ He closed his eyes for a second and sighed. at least he wasn’t alone like he had before. Nila was his friend, but she wasn’t his family. But Ghost… Ghost had become his family. „i want to try and sleep, love… If I want to heal to be bonded with you soon, I have to sleep a lot.“, he whispered and looked at him sadly. „Will you… stay with me? No matter what the healer said?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

"Always." Ghost promised and had already snuggled close on his whole side. "Rest and I'll be here beside you." He promised and kissed his forehead and cheek lovingly as he cradled him. He needed rest too... So he'd just sleep too. Exhaustion soon claimed him and Ghost fell asleep against his love. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I love you too… I… I can’t live without you… so don’t die.” He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost’s hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan’s hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. “So… you two?” He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. “Good.” He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan looked at the healer and smiled at the question. „Mine…“, he said softly and his voice was filled with pain but also so much love. „My love…“ He leaned his head up and pressed his forehead against Ghost’s. The healer explained Ghost what he had to do to keep the wound clean. It would involve at least three changes of bandages and wound cleaning. He just wanted to know if the man was up for that task.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost was. He, like all clones, learned fast so he knew he would be able to do it. He then settled by his lover and kissed K'Wan’s forehead and pressed their faces close. He was afraid of losing him. He loved him so much and was so glad they had finally come home. “When you feel better love… we’ll bond.” He whispered softly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan chuckled. „Already thinking of that again…“, he said softly and stroked his back. He then finally noticed Ghost’s hands and frowned. „From digging?“, he asked and carefully took on of Ghost’s hands in his, gently kissing it. „I’m sorry you had to do this for me… and I’m sorry you had to worry for my stupid ass.“ The healer smiled at them and laid a blanket over them. „You should stay here for the night… if your fever has gone down a bit by tomorrow you can go home and heal there.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost nodded to K'Wan and looked up at the healer. He would stay as long as he was allowed and he would keep his lover company. He refocused on K'Wan and kissed their hands. “It was worth it, love.” He whispered and gave him a sweet look. “You’re here and safe.” He added and just curled up next to K'Wan and just held his hand. “I love you.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The healer gently touched Ghost’s back. „You can stay here if you like… stay in the bed as long as he’s awake and then you can have one of my cots if you want… the rain has gotten worse since you came here, it would be cruel to send you home.“, he told him and then left. K’wan smiled at Ghost. „Let the healer get a look of your hands… with our salves it should heal faster…“, he said softly.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost looked at his hands and the blisters and cuts. “In a bit… I want to stay by your side until you fall asleep.” He murmured and kissed his cheek. As he did the skins at the entrance was pulled aside and the Queen stepped inside. Ghost was so surprised to see her that he fell out of the bed. The queen chuckled and then watched him silently as Ghost pulled himself up and into a humble bow. “My queen.” He said and she acknowledged him with a nod. “You have returned.” She stated and Ghost bowed again. “Yes, my Queen, sadly in a bit of a mess.” He replied and she reached out and grabbed his arm to look at his cut hands. “So I see.” She said and let him go. “What happened?” She demanded of K'Wan. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan groaned and tried to sit up but the pain rushing through his body made it impossible. „My queen… I would bow to you… but my body is incapable of performing such a noble gesture at the moment, I beg your forgiveness.“, he told her and pulled away the sheet, showing her his bandages. „After we witnessed the funeral of Ghost’s former General and lover, he and I went out to find the mad Serin who had killed them…“ He swallowed hard. „It turned out to be my son, my queen. Lan… the boy who had been captured by the blue… we fought and I killed him…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

She stared at him, behind her one of her pretty servants gasped. He covered his mouth dramatically. She seemed to be contemplating something. “This is the Mad One the hunters have been speaking of? The one that attacked the newcomers settlement in the past?” She asked and Ghost nodded. “Yes, my Queen.” He replied humbly. “Then I am grateful, K'Wan and I am very sorry for your son.” She added. “Rest and recover.” She turned to the healer. “See to Ghost’s hands.” She said and left them and the healer hurried up to Ghost and looked over his hands. “Young man, you should have said something.” He admonished and set to administer care to them. Soon he finished and left Ghost by K'Wan again. “That was… exciting.” Ghost said surprised. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Exciting?“, K’Wan smirked painfully and stroked Ghost’s back. „The queen is just another Serin, sure she holds a big title, but underneath she is a caring female.“ He smiled at him softly and pulled him closer to kiss him. „Or do you mean something else?“ K’Wan hurt.. both physically and emotionally. He had been forced to kill his son… the son he had abandoned and left behind for years.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

"I worry she'd blame me for... for almost losing you, love." He told K'Wan and kissed him back. He stroked his face and pressed their foreheads together. "I'll be with until the day I draw my last breath, K'Wan. I'll try to keep you safe from heartache until that day." He whispered, tears in his eyes. He didn't like seeing how hurt K'Wan was. He didn't like seeing how his heart was breaking over what he had to do. He didn't like how he felt relieved that K'Wan's son was dead... that Ilya was avenged. He felt ill at the thought of digging that grave for Lan's body when he'd killed Ilya... But he would never ever tell K'Wan that. He hurt quite enough as it was. "I love you." He whispered and placed his hand over K'Wan's heart. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I love you too… I… I can’t live without you… so don’t die.” He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost’s hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan’s hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. “So… you two?” He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. “Good.” He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan looked at the healer and smiled at the question. „Mine…“, he said softly and his voice was filled with pain but also so much love. „My love…“ He leaned his head up and pressed his forehead against Ghost’s. The healer explained Ghost what he had to do to keep the wound clean. It would involve at least three changes of bandages and wound cleaning. He just wanted to know if the man was up for that task.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost was. He, like all clones, learned fast so he knew he would be able to do it. He then settled by his lover and kissed K'Wan’s forehead and pressed their faces close. He was afraid of losing him. He loved him so much and was so glad they had finally come home. “When you feel better love… we’ll bond.” He whispered softly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan chuckled. „Already thinking of that again…“, he said softly and stroked his back. He then finally noticed Ghost’s hands and frowned. „From digging?“, he asked and carefully took on of Ghost’s hands in his, gently kissing it. „I’m sorry you had to do this for me… and I’m sorry you had to worry for my stupid ass.“ The healer smiled at them and laid a blanket over them. „You should stay here for the night… if your fever has gone down a bit by tomorrow you can go home and heal there.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost nodded to K'Wan and looked up at the healer. He would stay as long as he was allowed and he would keep his lover company. He refocused on K'Wan and kissed their hands. “It was worth it, love.” He whispered and gave him a sweet look. “You’re here and safe.” He added and just curled up next to K'Wan and just held his hand. “I love you.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The healer gently touched Ghost’s back. „You can stay here if you like… stay in the bed as long as he’s awake and then you can have one of my cots if you want… the rain has gotten worse since you came here, it would be cruel to send you home.“, he told him and then left. K’wan smiled at Ghost. „Let the healer get a look of your hands… with our salves it should heal faster…“, he said softly.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost looked at his hands and the blisters and cuts. “In a bit… I want to stay by your side until you fall asleep.” He murmured and kissed his cheek. As he did the skins at the entrance was pulled aside and the Queen stepped inside. Ghost was so surprised to see her that he fell out of the bed. The queen chuckled and then watched him silently as Ghost pulled himself up and into a humble bow. “My queen.” He said and she acknowledged him with a nod. “You have returned.” She stated and Ghost bowed again. “Yes, my Queen, sadly in a bit of a mess.” He replied and she reached out and grabbed his arm to look at his cut hands. “So I see.” She said and let him go. “What happened?” She demanded of K'Wan. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan groaned and tried to sit up but the pain rushing through his body made it impossible. „My queen… I would bow to you… but my body is incapable of performing such a noble gesture at the moment, I beg your forgiveness.“, he told her and pulled away the sheet, showing her his bandages. „After we witnessed the funeral of Ghost’s former General and lover, he and I went out to find the mad Serin who had killed them…“ He swallowed hard. „It turned out to be my son, my queen. Lan… the boy who had been captured by the blue… we fought and I killed him…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

She stared at him, behind her one of her pretty servants gasped. He covered his mouth dramatically. She seemed to be contemplating something. "This is the Mad One the hunters have been speaking of? The one that attacked the newcomers settlement in the past?" She asked and Ghost nodded. "Yes, my Queen." He replied humbly. "Then I am grateful, K'Wan and I am very sorry for your son." She added. "Rest and recover." She turned to the healer. "See to Ghost's hands." She said and left them and the healer hurried up to Ghost and looked over his hands. "Young man, you should have said something." He admonished and set to administer care to them. Soon he finished and left Ghost by K'Wan again. "That was... exciting." Ghost said surprised. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I love you too… I… I can’t live without you… so don’t die.” He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost’s hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan’s hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. “So… you two?” He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. “Good.” He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan looked at the healer and smiled at the question. „Mine…“, he said softly and his voice was filled with pain but also so much love. „My love…“ He leaned his head up and pressed his forehead against Ghost’s. The healer explained Ghost what he had to do to keep the wound clean. It would involve at least three changes of bandages and wound cleaning. He just wanted to know if the man was up for that task.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost was. He, like all clones, learned fast so he knew he would be able to do it. He then settled by his lover and kissed K'Wan’s forehead and pressed their faces close. He was afraid of losing him. He loved him so much and was so glad they had finally come home. “When you feel better love… we’ll bond.” He whispered softly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan chuckled. „Already thinking of that again…“, he said softly and stroked his back. He then finally noticed Ghost’s hands and frowned. „From digging?“, he asked and carefully took on of Ghost’s hands in his, gently kissing it. „I’m sorry you had to do this for me… and I’m sorry you had to worry for my stupid ass.“ The healer smiled at them and laid a blanket over them. „You should stay here for the night… if your fever has gone down a bit by tomorrow you can go home and heal there.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost nodded to K'Wan and looked up at the healer. He would stay as long as he was allowed and he would keep his lover company. He refocused on K'Wan and kissed their hands. “It was worth it, love.” He whispered and gave him a sweet look. “You’re here and safe.” He added and just curled up next to K'Wan and just held his hand. “I love you.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The healer gently touched Ghost’s back. „You can stay here if you like… stay in the bed as long as he’s awake and then you can have one of my cots if you want… the rain has gotten worse since you came here, it would be cruel to send you home.“, he told him and then left. K’wan smiled at Ghost. „Let the healer get a look of your hands… with our salves it should heal faster…“, he said softly.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost looked at his hands and the blisters and cuts. "In a bit... I want to stay by your side until you fall asleep." He murmured and kissed his cheek. As he did the skins at the entrance was pulled aside and the Queen stepped inside. Ghost was so surprised to see her that he fell out of the bed. The queen chuckled and then watched him silently as Ghost pulled himself up and into a humble bow. "My queen." He said and she acknowledged him with a nod. "You have returned." She stated and Ghost bowed again. "Yes, my Queen, sadly in a bit of a mess." He replied and she reached out and grabbed his arm to look at his cut hands. "So I see." She said and let him go. "What happened?" She demanded of K'Wan. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I love you too… I… I can’t live without you… so don’t die.” He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost’s hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan’s hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. “So… you two?” He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. “Good.” He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan looked at the healer and smiled at the question. „Mine…“, he said softly and his voice was filled with pain but also so much love. „My love…“ He leaned his head up and pressed his forehead against Ghost’s. The healer explained Ghost what he had to do to keep the wound clean. It would involve at least three changes of bandages and wound cleaning. He just wanted to know if the man was up for that task.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost was. He, like all clones, learned fast so he knew he would be able to do it. He then settled by his lover and kissed K'Wan’s forehead and pressed their faces close. He was afraid of losing him. He loved him so much and was so glad they had finally come home. “When you feel better love… we’ll bond.” He whispered softly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan chuckled. „Already thinking of that again…“, he said softly and stroked his back. He then finally noticed Ghost’s hands and frowned. „From digging?“, he asked and carefully took on of Ghost’s hands in his, gently kissing it. „I’m sorry you had to do this for me… and I’m sorry you had to worry for my stupid ass.“ The healer smiled at them and laid a blanket over them. „You should stay here for the night… if your fever has gone down a bit by tomorrow you can go home and heal there.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost nodded to K'Wan and looked up at the healer. He would stay as long as he was allowed and he would keep his lover company. He refocused on K'Wan and kissed their hands. "It was worth it, love." He whispered and gave him a sweet look. "You're here and safe." He added and just curled up next to K'Wan and just held his hand. "I love you." @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“I love you too… I… I can’t live without you… so don’t die.” He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost’s hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan’s hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. “So… you two?” He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. “Good.” He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan looked at the healer and smiled at the question. „Mine…“, he said softly and his voice was filled with pain but also so much love. „My love…“ He leaned his head up and pressed his forehead against Ghost’s. The healer explained Ghost what he had to do to keep the wound clean. It would involve at least three changes of bandages and wound cleaning. He just wanted to know if the man was up for that task.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost was. He, like all clones, learned fast so he knew he would be able to do it. He then settled by his lover and kissed K'Wan's forehead and pressed their faces close. He was afraid of losing him. He loved him so much and was so glad they had finally come home. "When you feel better love... we'll bond." He whispered softly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer’s hut. He was by K'wan’s side in a moment and touched his face and arm. “Love… love…” He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. “I’m here… I’m with you now.” He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’wan lifted a hand and gently placed it on Ghost’s face. He was still burning hot, his body fighting the infection with a heavy fever. „You’re here… and I told you… I… refuse to die…“ He was drifting in and out of consciousness, his body so tired from the long way, the fight, the infection, the fever… all of it combined. „I… love you.. .Ghost…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

"I love you too... I... I can't live without you... so don't die." He whispered and kissed his hand lovingly. Ghost's hands had blisters and sores on them from digging the grave. He kissed K'Wan's hand again and looked up as the healer cleared his throat. "So... you two?" He asked with a chuckle as he gave K'Wan a brew that would help dull the pain. Ghost blushed deeply and then nodded, happily. "Good." He said. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

By the time they had reached him K’Wan had lost consciousness. He was barely breathing, his heart beat slow. His body was trembling from a high fever which was rare for Serin to even have. He was on the verge of death. However their healer knew what to do and cut away the rotting flesh. He had to cut deep to get it all out, but eventually he got clean blood. He stuff the wound with an herbal cream and with clean bandages, then bound his entire torso. After about an hour with the healer he came to, whispering only one thing. „Ghost…“ The healer nodded and went outside to get the man. „You can come in… he’s barely awake.. but better.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost basically ran. He had taken off most of his armour and put it just outside the healer's hut. He was by K'wan's side in a moment and touched his face and arm. "Love... love..." He whispered and kissed him, pressing their faces together. He loved him and was so grateful he was still alive. "I'm here... I'm with you now." He told K'Wan lovingly. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 43

K’Wan nodded and placed a last stone onto Lan’s grave like he had on his mate’s. „I’m coming…“, he said quietly and followed him. His steps were slow and pained. With every step he took he felt his bandage soaking through with more puss and blood. After almost half an hour he couldn’t go anymore. „Ghost… go ahead… get Nila…“, he said. „I’ll follow… but get her…“ He waiter until Ghost had gone ahead and K’Wan couldn’t see him anymore before he collapsed into the ground. He was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost ran. Ran and climbed the fastest he had ever ran in his life. He reached the village in tears and barely able to move anymore. Some of the guards helped him up and he explained. He told them about K'Wan and soon Nila came running. She picked him up and he led the way there. Nila and two other guards came along to help carry the wounded K'Wan. They reached him and gathered him up, carrying home again. They returned with K'Wan and took him directly to the healer. Ghost was asked to stay outside and he was left alone, worry and fear playing on his face. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. “I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone.” He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. “So I’ll make sure he’s happy for as long as I live.” He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri pretty much absorbed everything Njal told him and wanted to become a scout more than anything now. He begged Njal to teach him, not giving up until the man had agreed. They spent most of the day together while Smiles drifted in and out of sleep, sometimes listening, sometimes just snoozing. Outside the rain prattled softly.

—

K’wan and Ghost had needed two full days to return home. His son weighed heavily on K’Wan’s shoulders and his wound kept breaking open. He was weakened and tired, his movements slow and clumsy. „We need to bury him… before he starts to rot…“, he said quietly, his voice hoarse.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost agreed with him. They had finally reached the perch and Ghost had insisted K'Wan rest a while in a shelter close by while Ghost started digging. He started close to K'Wan’s old mate’s grave and got quite away before he had to rest a while. He’d dug many graves in his short life. “I’m about a third of a way done, love. Next to your beloved.” He said and kissed his lover’s cheek. He then set to work replacing K'Wan’s bandages. “Once I’m done we need to go back and let a proper healer look at you, love. You look a mess.” He stroked his arm. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan had collapsed under the shelter, breath shallow and weak and he felt horrible. „i feel like a mess too..“, he admitted and closed his eyes for a second. Once the bandages were off a slightly foul scent reached him and he opened his eyes to look down. „Ohfuck…“, he groaned and noticed with distaste, that his wound had caught an infection because it had opened again and again. „Just clean it for now… I’ll help you dig afterwards.. this is no big deal.“, he tried to tell Ghost. He wanted to get his son buried and mourn him, he deserved that much after years of loneliness and torture. He could worry about himself afterwards.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“Out of the question! You stay here, I’ll dig.” Ghost said firmly. The stink of the wound almost making his vomit. He’d seen wounds go bad before and knew it could kill without proper care. He made sure to wash the wound properly, hands shaking as he did and then dress the wounds again. “Now stay down and rest, I’ll dig.” He repeated and got up again to continue. He refused to lose K'Wan. He would die if he did. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan felt horrible for having Ghost dig his son’s grave. It had to be deep and wide enough to take his corpse. The rain got worse over time and K’Wan dragged himself outside, using his large claws to help digging. „I don’t want  you to do this all by yourself… this is my son after all… Go into the shelter before you catch a cold…“, he said, his voice slurred. He dug out large portions of soil and tossed it aside, not caring that his breath got shallower and his vision blurred. He didn’t want Ghost to do this for him.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost actually got angry. “Go back!!” He cried. “If you die… no… Go back and stay in there!” He snapped and pulled at his arm. “I can do this, I want to do this for you. My armour is sealed so no water will get inside.” He said and his voice was thick with emotion. He loved K'Wan and the thought of him dying… his vision blurred with tears. “Please… I don’t want to lose you… please rest.” He sniffled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I won’t die from this, Ghost.“, K’Wan told him, bracing his wound. „I’ve had worse infections before I knew you… this isn’t nearly as bad as any of them.“ Suddenly he shuddered, maybe it was worse after all. But he didn’t want Ghost to know. „this is my son… I failed him and murdered him… I should be the one digging his grave to ask for forgiveness from his spirit…“ He sat down and cried. „I have to do this… Like I had to do it for my mate… or his death will haunt me forever… I promise you, I won’t die. I refuse to die… I won’t leave your side until I’m old… let… let me help you at least…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“You will lift him into the grave… I can’t do that. I’m sure neither of them would want you to kill yourself over this.” He said and looked up at him. “I’ve seen killing wounds before, K'Wan… probably more than you. So do as I say.” He told him and pulled at his arm pointedly. “So rest until then, please.” He told him and kissed his cheek. “Please, K'Wan.” He repeated. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan looked helplessly at Ghost, the hole and then his son. „Yes..“, he said quietly and turned away, back to the shelter. He barely made it there before his legs gave in and he slumped down. He was still awake, still watching Ghost. But he was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost wanted to go to him, he watched him collapse. He turned back to the hole and continued digging. He knew that K'Wan hurt right now… He could almost feel it. His own heart was screaming at him too… this grave is the grave to the one that killed Ilya. The one that almost killed K'Wan…. that K'Wan was hurting and he should be with him instead of digging. He dug and dug, he knew his hands bled under his gloves and he could barely think anymore… But finally he was done. The hole big enough and deep enough. He climbed out of the grave and moved over to K'Wan. “It’s ready.” He said simply and collapsed to his knees. “…bury him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan looked like death, but he forced himself up and walked over to his son. He groaned in pain when he lifted him up, his wound seeping blood and puss again. He cradled his son against his chest, gently kissing his head. „I’m sorry my boy… Lan… I’m sorry my sweet little boy…“, he said softly and carefully placed him in the grave, he stroked his cheek and tears ran down his face. „My little Lan…“, he sobbed before he slowly covered his body with soil. He sang a sad, heartbroken lullaby.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost dragged himself up and went over to K'Wan and hugged his lover. He didn't say anything... He was too tired and heartbroken to do so. Instead he just held K'Wan close as the rain washed over them. They sat for hours... until Ghost decided that he didn't want to lose K'Wan too so he made him look at him. "It's time to go... you're not good, love. Please... I can't carry you with me... we need to go home." He begged, a gentle hand on K'Wan's side next to the wound. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. “I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone.” He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. “So I’ll make sure he’s happy for as long as I live.” He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri pretty much absorbed everything Njal told him and wanted to become a scout more than anything now. He begged Njal to teach him, not giving up until the man had agreed. They spent most of the day together while Smiles drifted in and out of sleep, sometimes listening, sometimes just snoozing. Outside the rain prattled softly.

—

K’wan and Ghost had needed two full days to return home. His son weighed heavily on K’Wan’s shoulders and his wound kept breaking open. He was weakened and tired, his movements slow and clumsy. „We need to bury him… before he starts to rot…“, he said quietly, his voice hoarse.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost agreed with him. They had finally reached the perch and Ghost had insisted K'Wan rest a while in a shelter close by while Ghost started digging. He started close to K'Wan’s old mate’s grave and got quite away before he had to rest a while. He’d dug many graves in his short life. “I’m about a third of a way done, love. Next to your beloved.” He said and kissed his lover’s cheek. He then set to work replacing K'Wan’s bandages. “Once I’m done we need to go back and let a proper healer look at you, love. You look a mess.” He stroked his arm. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan had collapsed under the shelter, breath shallow and weak and he felt horrible. „i feel like a mess too..“, he admitted and closed his eyes for a second. Once the bandages were off a slightly foul scent reached him and he opened his eyes to look down. „Ohfuck…“, he groaned and noticed with distaste, that his wound had caught an infection because it had opened again and again. „Just clean it for now… I’ll help you dig afterwards.. this is no big deal.“, he tried to tell Ghost. He wanted to get his son buried and mourn him, he deserved that much after years of loneliness and torture. He could worry about himself afterwards.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“Out of the question! You stay here, I’ll dig.” Ghost said firmly. The stink of the wound almost making his vomit. He’d seen wounds go bad before and knew it could kill without proper care. He made sure to wash the wound properly, hands shaking as he did and then dress the wounds again. “Now stay down and rest, I’ll dig.” He repeated and got up again to continue. He refused to lose K'Wan. He would die if he did. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan felt horrible for having Ghost dig his son’s grave. It had to be deep and wide enough to take his corpse. The rain got worse over time and K’Wan dragged himself outside, using his large claws to help digging. „I don’t want  you to do this all by yourself… this is my son after all… Go into the shelter before you catch a cold…“, he said, his voice slurred. He dug out large portions of soil and tossed it aside, not caring that his breath got shallower and his vision blurred. He didn’t want Ghost to do this for him.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost actually got angry. “Go back!!” He cried. “If you die… no… Go back and stay in there!” He snapped and pulled at his arm. “I can do this, I want to do this for you. My armour is sealed so no water will get inside.” He said and his voice was thick with emotion. He loved K'Wan and the thought of him dying… his vision blurred with tears. “Please… I don’t want to lose you… please rest.” He sniffled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I won’t die from this, Ghost.“, K’Wan told him, bracing his wound. „I’ve had worse infections before I knew you… this isn’t nearly as bad as any of them.“ Suddenly he shuddered, maybe it was worse after all. But he didn’t want Ghost to know. „this is my son… I failed him and murdered him… I should be the one digging his grave to ask for forgiveness from his spirit…“ He sat down and cried. „I have to do this… Like I had to do it for my mate… or his death will haunt me forever… I promise you, I won’t die. I refuse to die… I won’t leave your side until I’m old… let… let me help you at least…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“You will lift him into the grave… I can’t do that. I’m sure neither of them would want you to kill yourself over this.” He said and looked up at him. “I’ve seen killing wounds before, K'Wan… probably more than you. So do as I say.” He told him and pulled at his arm pointedly. “So rest until then, please.” He told him and kissed his cheek. “Please, K'Wan.” He repeated. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan looked helplessly at Ghost, the hole and then his son. „Yes..“, he said quietly and turned away, back to the shelter. He barely made it there before his legs gave in and he slumped down. He was still awake, still watching Ghost. But he was so tired.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost wanted to go to him, he watched him collapse. He turned back to the hole and continued digging. He knew that K'Wan hurt right now... He could almost feel it. His own heart was screaming at him too... this grave is the grave to the one that killed Ilya. The one that almost killed K'Wan.... that K'Wan was hurting and he should be with him instead of digging. He dug and dug, he knew his hands bled under his gloves and he could barely think anymore... But finally he was done. The hole big enough and deep enough. He climbed out of the grave and moved over to K'Wan. "It's ready." He said simply and collapsed to his knees. "...bury him." He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. “I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone.” He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. “So I’ll make sure he’s happy for as long as I live.” He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri pretty much absorbed everything Njal told him and wanted to become a scout more than anything now. He begged Njal to teach him, not giving up until the man had agreed. They spent most of the day together while Smiles drifted in and out of sleep, sometimes listening, sometimes just snoozing. Outside the rain prattled softly.

—

K’wan and Ghost had needed two full days to return home. His son weighed heavily on K’Wan’s shoulders and his wound kept breaking open. He was weakened and tired, his movements slow and clumsy. „We need to bury him… before he starts to rot…“, he said quietly, his voice hoarse.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost agreed with him. They had finally reached the perch and Ghost had insisted K'Wan rest a while in a shelter close by while Ghost started digging. He started close to K'Wan’s old mate’s grave and got quite away before he had to rest a while. He’d dug many graves in his short life. “I’m about a third of a way done, love. Next to your beloved.” He said and kissed his lover’s cheek. He then set to work replacing K'Wan’s bandages. “Once I’m done we need to go back and let a proper healer look at you, love. You look a mess.” He stroked his arm. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan had collapsed under the shelter, breath shallow and weak and he felt horrible. „i feel like a mess too..“, he admitted and closed his eyes for a second. Once the bandages were off a slightly foul scent reached him and he opened his eyes to look down. „Ohfuck…“, he groaned and noticed with distaste, that his wound had caught an infection because it had opened again and again. „Just clean it for now… I’ll help you dig afterwards.. this is no big deal.“, he tried to tell Ghost. He wanted to get his son buried and mourn him, he deserved that much after years of loneliness and torture. He could worry about himself afterwards.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“Out of the question! You stay here, I’ll dig.” Ghost said firmly. The stink of the wound almost making his vomit. He’d seen wounds go bad before and knew it could kill without proper care. He made sure to wash the wound properly, hands shaking as he did and then dress the wounds again. “Now stay down and rest, I’ll dig.” He repeated and got up again to continue. He refused to lose K'Wan. He would die if he did. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan felt horrible for having Ghost dig his son’s grave. It had to be deep and wide enough to take his corpse. The rain got worse over time and K’Wan dragged himself outside, using his large claws to help digging. „I don’t want  you to do this all by yourself… this is my son after all… Go into the shelter before you catch a cold…“, he said, his voice slurred. He dug out large portions of soil and tossed it aside, not caring that his breath got shallower and his vision blurred. He didn’t want Ghost to do this for him.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost actually got angry. “Go back!!” He cried. “If you die… no… Go back and stay in there!” He snapped and pulled at his arm. “I can do this, I want to do this for you. My armour is sealed so no water will get inside.” He said and his voice was thick with emotion. He loved K'Wan and the thought of him dying… his vision blurred with tears. “Please… I don’t want to lose you… please rest.” He sniffled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I won’t die from this, Ghost.“, K’Wan told him, bracing his wound. „I’ve had worse infections before I knew you… this isn’t nearly as bad as any of them.“ Suddenly he shuddered, maybe it was worse after all. But he didn’t want Ghost to know. „this is my son… I failed him and murdered him… I should be the one digging his grave to ask for forgiveness from his spirit…“ He sat down and cried. „I have to do this… Like I had to do it for my mate… or his death will haunt me forever… I promise you, I won’t die. I refuse to die… I won’t leave your side until I’m old… let… let me help you at least…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

"You will lift him into the grave... I can't do that. I'm sure neither of them would want you to kill yourself over this." He said and looked up at him. "I've seen killing wounds before, K'Wan... probably more than you. So do as I say." He told him and pulled at his arm pointedly. "So rest until then, please." He told him and kissed his cheek. "Please, K'Wan." He repeated. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. “I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone.” He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. “So I’ll make sure he’s happy for as long as I live.” He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri pretty much absorbed everything Njal told him and wanted to become a scout more than anything now. He begged Njal to teach him, not giving up until the man had agreed. They spent most of the day together while Smiles drifted in and out of sleep, sometimes listening, sometimes just snoozing. Outside the rain prattled softly.

—

K’wan and Ghost had needed two full days to return home. His son weighed heavily on K’Wan’s shoulders and his wound kept breaking open. He was weakened and tired, his movements slow and clumsy. „We need to bury him… before he starts to rot…“, he said quietly, his voice hoarse.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost agreed with him. They had finally reached the perch and Ghost had insisted K'Wan rest a while in a shelter close by while Ghost started digging. He started close to K'Wan’s old mate’s grave and got quite away before he had to rest a while. He’d dug many graves in his short life. “I’m about a third of a way done, love. Next to your beloved.” He said and kissed his lover’s cheek. He then set to work replacing K'Wan’s bandages. “Once I’m done we need to go back and let a proper healer look at you, love. You look a mess.” He stroked his arm. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan had collapsed under the shelter, breath shallow and weak and he felt horrible. „i feel like a mess too..“, he admitted and closed his eyes for a second. Once the bandages were off a slightly foul scent reached him and he opened his eyes to look down. „Ohfuck…“, he groaned and noticed with distaste, that his wound had caught an infection because it had opened again and again. „Just clean it for now… I’ll help you dig afterwards.. this is no big deal.“, he tried to tell Ghost. He wanted to get his son buried and mourn him, he deserved that much after years of loneliness and torture. He could worry about himself afterwards.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

“Out of the question! You stay here, I’ll dig.” Ghost said firmly. The stink of the wound almost making his vomit. He’d seen wounds go bad before and knew it could kill without proper care. He made sure to wash the wound properly, hands shaking as he did and then dress the wounds again. “Now stay down and rest, I’ll dig.” He repeated and got up again to continue. He refused to lose K'Wan. He would die if he did. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan felt horrible for having Ghost dig his son’s grave. It had to be deep and wide enough to take his corpse. The rain got worse over time and K’Wan dragged himself outside, using his large claws to help digging. „I don’t want  you to do this all by yourself… this is my son after all… Go into the shelter before you catch a cold…“, he said, his voice slurred. He dug out large portions of soil and tossed it aside, not caring that his breath got shallower and his vision blurred. He didn’t want Ghost to do this for him.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost actually got angry. "Go back!!" He cried. "If you die... no... Go back and stay in there!" He snapped and pulled at his arm. "I can do this, I want to do this for you. My armour is sealed so no water will get inside." He said and his voice was thick with emotion. He loved K'Wan and the thought of him dying... his vision blurred with tears. "Please... I don't want to lose you... please rest." He sniffled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. “I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone.” He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. “So I’ll make sure he’s happy for as long as I live.” He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri pretty much absorbed everything Njal told him and wanted to become a scout more than anything now. He begged Njal to teach him, not giving up until the man had agreed. They spent most of the day together while Smiles drifted in and out of sleep, sometimes listening, sometimes just snoozing. Outside the rain prattled softly.

—

K’wan and Ghost had needed two full days to return home. His son weighed heavily on K’Wan’s shoulders and his wound kept breaking open. He was weakened and tired, his movements slow and clumsy. „We need to bury him… before he starts to rot…“, he said quietly, his voice hoarse.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost agreed with him. They had finally reached the perch and Ghost had insisted K'Wan rest a while in a shelter close by while Ghost started digging. He started close to K'Wan’s old mate’s grave and got quite away before he had to rest a while. He’d dug many graves in his short life. “I’m about a third of a way done, love. Next to your beloved.” He said and kissed his lover’s cheek. He then set to work replacing K'Wan’s bandages. “Once I’m done we need to go back and let a proper healer look at you, love. You look a mess.” He stroked his arm. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

K’Wan had collapsed under the shelter, breath shallow and weak and he felt horrible. „i feel like a mess too..“, he admitted and closed his eyes for a second. Once the bandages were off a slightly foul scent reached him and he opened his eyes to look down. „Ohfuck…“, he groaned and noticed with distaste, that his wound had caught an infection because it had opened again and again. „Just clean it for now… I’ll help you dig afterwards.. this is no big deal.“, he tried to tell Ghost. He wanted to get his son buried and mourn him, he deserved that much after years of loneliness and torture. He could worry about himself afterwards.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

"Out of the question! You stay here, I'll dig." Ghost said firmly. The stink of the wound almost making his vomit. He'd seen wounds go bad before and knew it could kill without proper care. He made sure to wash the wound properly, hands shaking as he did and then dress the wounds again. "Now stay down and rest, I'll dig." He repeated and got up again to continue. He refused to lose K'Wan. He would die if he did. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. “I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone.” He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. “So I’ll make sure he’s happy for as long as I live.” He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri pretty much absorbed everything Njal told him and wanted to become a scout more than anything now. He begged Njal to teach him, not giving up until the man had agreed. They spent most of the day together while Smiles drifted in and out of sleep, sometimes listening, sometimes just snoozing. Outside the rain prattled softly.

—

K’wan and Ghost had needed two full days to return home. His son weighed heavily on K’Wan’s shoulders and his wound kept breaking open. He was weakened and tired, his movements slow and clumsy. „We need to bury him… before he starts to rot…“, he said quietly, his voice hoarse.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Ghost agreed with him. They had finally reached the perch and Ghost had insisted K'Wan rest a while in a shelter close by while Ghost started digging. He started close to K'Wan's old mate's grave and got quite away before he had to rest a while. He'd dug many graves in his short life. "I'm about a third of a way done, love. Next to your beloved." He said and kissed his lover's cheek. He then set to work replacing K'Wan's bandages. "Once I'm done we need to go back and let a proper healer look at you, love. You look a mess." He stroked his arm. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. “It is not, Sindri… but at least I have Smiles right now.” He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. “I’ll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that.” He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. “I’ll be here for the rest of his days.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Sindri looked at him with curious eyes. His irises had different colors, the top was dark green and the bottom was golden, they were gorgeous. „You love him a lot.“, he said softly and hesitantly hugged Njal. He liked the stranger. He was kind and he was an outsider, like him in some way. Even though Mender and Silas had adopted him, he felt like an outcast. „And he loves you… he looks so happy when he speaks of you.“ He pulled back quickly, not wanting to make Njal uncomfortable. „Please.. he… was amongst the people who saved my life back in the mines…“ He left it there. He was an odd kid, knew and saw things other people didn’t. Ley looked at her brother curiously. Maybe he was like her.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal was watching him curiously too. His purple eyes glowing slightly with the curiosity. "I love him more than I've ever loved anyone. Without him I feel desperately alone." He added and gave Sindri a weak smile. "So I'll make sure he's happy for as long as I live." He promised the little boy. He then pulled back and instead told the two children about being a scout. About the plants you needed to know. How to see but not be seen and how to attack from afar and melt back into the trees. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Cold Plains 42

„I’d like to know about your people… how they live and what you do… how you found Smiles.“, Sindri admitted, eyes suddenly sparkling. He looked so cute when he looked like that. „But… only if you want to.“ La’Leyna looked at him and Sindri smiled shyly at her. She gave him confidence. They brought Njal to his and Smiles’ home where Cinders and Cecil still waited, talking about nonsense in basic. „Ah, you’re back.. how is our little ginger?“, Cecil asked when he heard them come in.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal offered the younglings to sit on the pillows they two clones had brought into the house to make it more cosy. “He’s recovering but he needed rest. Mender said it went well.” He answered and then settled beside the kids. “So… I’ll tell you how I met Smiles…” He said and started to tell them the story of how they met. Cinders, who had made some tea, offered some to Njal before settling down to listen too. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

The two children were cuddled up on the moss bed Smiles and Njal would usually share. The had a blanket wrapped around them and were basically glued to Njal’s lips as he told them how he had met and saved Smiles. Cecil told Mender that the kids were with them so the overprotective dad wouldn’t worry. „Will you marry one day?“, La’Leyna asked when Njal was done, her golden eyes sparkling. „like my Papa and Dad?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal turned a deep purple and his freckles glowed. “I… I… haven thought about that… maybe.” He said, knowing full well that if he did marry Smiles he would never be able to see his people again. After a moment he noticed that Cinders were staring at him. “What’s wrong?” He asked and Cinders gestured to his face. “You’re glowing!” Cinders said and Njal blinked at him. “Oh… oh… when I blush my freckles glow… don’t ask me how or why but my people just do.” He said and gave him a weak smile. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

La’Leyna’s eyes suddenly sparkled and she she stared at Njal with an open mouth and wide eyes. „You’re SO PRETTY!“, she squealed and touched his face. She quickly pulled back though, remembering that not everyone liked to be touched. „You have to marry Smiles, you two are so pretty together!“ „Ley… stop…“, Sindri muttered and grabbed her hand. Cecil chuckled. „I think it’s quite enough for today… it’s getting late and you two should go to bed soon.“, Cecil said and grabbed La’Leyna, swinging her onto her shoulder. „but…“ „No buts, bed.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Cinders chuckled sillily. “Butts.” He repeated and offered Sindri his hand. “Sleep well, Njal.” He said and Njal gave them a smile and a wave. He had been taken a bit aback by how excited Ley had become. He sat down alone in the newly cleaned house and found himself feeling utterly alone. To think he had grown so attached to having Smiles close. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles didn’t sleep well either, he had nightmares again and all he wanted was to have Njal close.

The next morning at breakfast he already asked Mender if he could sleep with Njal again, he was lonely and had barely slept. La’Leyna stormed into the room and looked excited. „Njal glows when he blushes! He GLOWS!“, she squealed and Smiles chuckled. „I know.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender smiled. Ley had talked about nothing else all evening and morning. “I need you here for at least another week, Smiles. It can hurt you badly if we move you earlier than that, I’m sorry.” He said and picked up Ley to settle her on the chair Njal had used. “Njal is of course welcome to stay all day with you, if he feel up to it.” He told him. “I’ll tell Cinders after him.” He added. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„Mend… I have the nightmares again.. I haven’t had them since I know Njal… I-I’m scared…“, he pleaded, but he knew he couldn’t change Mender’s mind. So he dropped his head in defeat and stared at his breakfast. „I’m seeing Asher again…“, he whispered. He twirled his spoon through the grout and sighed. „I haven’t dreamt of him in months… and now it hurts so much…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a sympathetic look and sighed. “Then I’ll give you something to Let you sleep without dreams… if you do not stay here to heal properly then you might being unable to walk at all.” He told him. “You want to be able to walk, don’t you?” He asked touching his shoulder. “You have to understand, Smiles.” He said sympathetically. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

„I… yes…“, he said quietly and looked like a beaten puppy. He was sad and lonely. Suddenly Sindri, who had been quiet the entire time, jumped off of his seat and ran off. „Sindri?“, Smiles asked in confusion, looking after the boy. „What’s gotten into him.“

—

Sindri ran to Njal’s and Smiles’ home. „Njal! Njal!“, he called and waited by the door. He was polite and patient. „C-can I come in?“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender frowned as Smiles looked so beaten. It wasn’t as if Njal wouldn’t be here or that it would be long if it mean being able to walk again. “Knowing the kid, he’s gone after your lover.” He said and offered Smiles a ration bar. It wasn’t as good as food from the village but it had all the nutrients that Smiles would need to heal well. ————- Njal soon opened the door and ushered the child inside. The rains had started again and it hissed against the stone roof. “What is it, Sindri?” He asked kindly as he offered the youngling some cloth to dry off the water. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles blinked surprised at Mender as he took the ration bar. He hadn’t eaten one like that in weeks and he had kind of craved it. „Y-you think so?“, he asked and blushed deeply. Thinking that Sindri would do something like that for him made him happy. Utterly happy. For both actually. He wanted shy little Sindri to come out of his shell and Njal having someone to talk to besides him as well. Someone who didn’t frighten him. He hoped Sindri could be that someone for Njal.

—

Sindri took the cloth and rubbed his montrals. „Smiles… he’s having nightmares again…“, he said quietly. „He told Paps… that he misses you…“ The boy fiddled awkwardly with his thumbs. „H-he even asked Paps if he couldn’t already come home… but… he needs to heal first…“ Shy eyes met Njal’s. „D-do you think you could come to the ship and tell us some stories? I liked listening to you… and I’m sure Smiles would be happy to have you around…“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Mender gave him a grin. “He’s a good little kid… and I think he have a knack for empathy. He tend to read people very well even though he’s very shy.” He told him. —————– Njal hesitated only a second. Then he grabbed a blanket and threw over the kid before he nodded. “Let’s go, lead the way, Sindri… and thank you for fetching me.” He smiled. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles smiled and nodded. „He is… he’s kind of special that way… sometimes I wonder if he’s been gifted, like Ley..“, he whispered and shook his head. „As if I knew.“ He chuckled awkwardly and ate his ration bar quietly. What would Asher think of all of this? His freedom? His love to Njal? His quiet wish to be a father like Mender? He shook that last thought out of his head. He wouldn’t do the same mistake as Ilya and want something his partner might not.

—

Sindri ran ahead, tugging the blanket around himself. The mud splashed under his feet and he was sure he’d have to change once back, but he knew he’d been right. Njal longed for Smiles as much as Smiles for Njal. Soon they ran up the ramp and surprised Smiles who stared at them with wide eyes.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal, quite used to the rain stepped up the ramp, dressed in his strange coat. He looked like a ghost in the grey light of the rainy outside and he stepped into the medbay. “Hello, love.” He whispered and touched Smiles’ hand and kissed his forehead shyly. Mender just smiled and gave Ley a look that told her to keep from squeeing. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles quite happily sighed at the kiss and wrapped his arms around Njal. „love… my love…“, he whispered and kissed his cheek as he had buried his face close to Njal’s in their tight embrace. „Sindri did get you…“ He sounded so happy and relieved. „I’m so happy you’re here.“ La’Leyna and Sindri kept quiet, the two children standing close to Mender, Sindri smiling.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal stroked Smiles’ hair and face and then pulled back slightly to look at him. “Sindri told me you dreamt again… don’t you have dreamless?” He asked, he meant a plant you boiled into a tea that could keep dreams away. “We have other medicine with the same effect.” Mender told him as he had his hand on each of his children. He looked so unconsciously proud of them. Njal nodded. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles looked at Njal as if he’d seen an angel. He was so happy to see him. “I didn’t think my nightmares would come back as soon as I sleep without you…”, He told him quietly, cheeks darkening as he blushed. He rested his head against his chest and wrapped his arms around his waist. “I’ll take the medicine tonight… Hopefully it’ll help.” He sounded tired and in pain. Sindri stepped forward and rolled a chair over to Njal so he could sit. “Can you tell us stories now?”, He asked shyly and put a hand on his arm. “I-I’m sure Smiles would like to hear them too.” Smiles chuckled softly. “So you brought him here for your own gain too, hm?”, He asked and gently stroked the boy’s montrals.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal laughed, a rare sound even for Smiles to hear. “I’ll tell you some stories.” He said and settled down. Mender left the children with them to go do other things. Njal, who obviously wasn’t used to chairs, started to tell them about his people. “My people live mostly on hunting and fishing. We live deep within the ruins in a place we know as “the palace” there is a great lake inside that hold much fish. The lake it holy to us because of the statues within it. The priests have their temple inside it and store artefacts inside. We’re ruled by a king… The current one is my nephew, through my sister. I… haven’t been home for a long time so… I don’t know how he looks right now.“ He told them. @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Smiles knew all of this, but he loved listening to Njal. He had such a lovely voice and this time he understood more of it because his huttese had gotten better. He smiled the entire time, admiringly looking at Njal. Eventually he drifted off to sleep, smiling happily. Sindri grinned. „He needs some sleep…“, he said softly and put a finger to his lips. „What do you mean you haven’t been home for a long time?“, La’Leyna asked.

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal’s smile faded slightly. “I chose to leave… my people do not allow love between two people of the same gender. Only if you have offspring… But… I… I can’t so I left.” He looked at his and Smiles hands, blue and brown holding each other. “I train their scouts… so as long as I stay away from our settlements I’m still a part of them. If… me and Smiles married or showed our love openly… I could never go back again. I would be exiled.” @aryanaps

[aryanaps]

Both children looked confused, exchanging a short glance at each other, then La’Leyna frowned. „Your people are stupid to be like that… everyone should love who they want to without being banished.“, she said and crossed her arms. Sindri nodded. „I’m sorry, Njal…“, the boy said and gently touched Njal’s arm. „That is not fair.“

@clone-trooper-cinders

[clone-trooper-cinders]

Njal smiled down at the boy and placed his free hand on his. "It is not, Sindri... but at least I have Smiles right now." He said and worried about how short the clones lives were. "I'll be with him for as long as he want me, I promise that." He said and let his hand go and instead reached up and stroked Smiles cheek. "I'll be here for the rest of his days." @aryanaps