Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter one: arrival

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    Gurjin sits in the carriage with a soft smile on his face. He’s on his way to the castle, feeling proud- daresay cocky. He’s been personally chosen by the Skeksis to become a castle guard (whether it’s because of familial ties with Maudra Laesid, he can’t say, but he’s proud nonetheless 

Unum and unum of training has led to this and now he finally gets to do what he’s always dreamt of! Amidst his excitement, it’s relevant to consider the guards’ lack of Drenchen faces- it’s quite daunting, but serves to make Gurjin feel even more pleased with himself, silently vowing to make a good impression for the sake of his clan and his family.

    He looks around the carriage with curiosity, wondering about the gelfling around him. Four Vapran, two Stonewood, five Spriton. Including himself that would be twelve new guards. He wonders if there would be others, embarrassed to say he doesn’t know much about how he will start. He looks out of the carriage window as they approach the magnificent structure, tall and twisted, with towers reaching skyward.

    When the carriage finally comes to a halt he suddenly feels a small burst of nervousness, a feeling he seldom falls victim to. He steps out with the other new recruits, unsure of what exactly he should be doing. He assumes the captain will arrive soon, but what then? He stands awkwardly as some other new guards converse with one another. He spots a stonewood guard with thick and frizzy brown hair sticking from his helmet. He quickly tires of his blank face and sighs as he attempts to loosen up. Despite his efforts, his muscles tense as the captain marches into the room, his presence carrying with it an aura of authority. He introduces himself as Captain Ordon, but it isn’t as though they don’t already know- he’s practically a legend. Ordon, hero of Stone-in-the-Wood, Ordon, the spitter slayer- Gurjin had heard it all. Once again, the Drenchen is pulled from his thoughts as the captain stops in front of him, looking up at his straight posture and strong frame.

"What’s your name?" Ordon asks bluntly.

"Gurjin, sir." the Drenchen responds promptly. The captain eyes him for a moment more, noting that he may be quite the addition to his guard, considering his intimidating stature. Gurjin watches as the captain paces back and forth, hoping for the best. It’s now that Gurjin notices the guard standing across from him, the same frizzy haired one from before. He’s staring. He wants be irritated by his gawking, but he’d done the same just a few minutes prior, so he really has no right. This guard clearly isn’t new, his uniform old and worn. Gurjin chooses not to think much of it, it seems he’s just getting a look at everyone. The Drenchen finds himself continuing to watch in curiosity as the captain moves up behind the gawky guard. He says something, but the gelfling doesn’t react, still taking in the new faces. The captain promptly smacks the Stonewood guard upside his head, his helmet loosely falling over his eyes. He quickly adjusts himself, looking to the captain to repeat himself. Gurjin finds himself chuckling quietly at the gelfling, a little disappointed that he’s too far to hear their conversation.

"I told you to bring the recruits to their bunks- Adin already left with his group!" Ordon says, his voice sounding rather annoyed. The Stonewood nods, grappling for the parchment he’d been given with the recruits and bunk rooms assigned to them. He clumsily staggers forward as the captain gives him a small shove. Gurjin scoffs, this oaf seems utterly incompetent- perhaps making a good impression won’t be so difficult. The Stonewood guard steps up to the small group and gives a small smile.

"Hello, there. I’m Rian." He smiles. "You all just follow me, I’ll take you to where you’ll be staying." He says clearly, his voice deep and relaxed. He seems rather comfortable here, like he’s been here a while, although Gurjin reckons he can’t be any older than himself. The gelfling begins walking, his strides long and lax. He’s quite the character 

"I’m Nora."A new recruit shyly blurts as she trails up next to the Stonewood.

"It’s nice to meet you." He nods politely, giving her a charming but respectful smile. Nora grins, turning her face away for a moment to hide her pink cheeks. Gurjin can hardly understand why she’d fluster over that, she doesn’t even know him- it’s not as though he’s that handsome either.

"It’s nice to meet you as well. You have a very pretty name, by the way." She squeaks back. Rian gives her another soft nod, thanking her before turning to the group, now walking backwards through the halls.

"The castle can be hard to navigate at first, but it does get easier." He explains, "the most important places for you to know now are the training hall, which is back the way we came to the left, the bath room which is just passed the the training hall and the meal hall which is up ahead and a few minutes down that hall." Rian chuckles, pointing down a corridor as they pass it.

"Lots of halls." One gelfling jokingly huffs.

"Many." Rian affirms. "All of you will be bunked with more experienced recruits, they’ll help you with getting around and acting proper." Rian assures the group, obviously intimidated by the size of the castle. Still facing the group, he pulls out his parchment once again. He studies it for a few moments, trying to decide where he should start, still haphazardly strolling backwards. "Hm.. here we have.... ah- Nora." Rian smiles to the gelfling who had previously introduced herself. "You are bunking with.. Eedie ." He informs, knocking on the door politely. He waits for a response from the girl inside before peeking in to send in the new recruit. The girl gives him a sweet wave as Eedie introduces herself. With that done, he continues scrolling his eyes through the list, moving on, and pairing up the girls in their rooms. Gurjin watches in confusion as he interacts with the newbies. He gives them all the same dopey smile. Half the girls give him googly eyes but he hardly even notices. He must be quite dense, Gurjin thinks to himself. Still managing the shrinking group, Rian pairs the final girl with her roommate, politely pulling her from the little crowd. "You’re with Nidria.." he looks up the the recruit, "word of advice, do not ask about her hair. She wears it like that on purpose." Rian chuckles, obviously speaking from experience. He earns scattered giggles from what’s left of group as they continue on their way. It takes a while but they get to the last few gelfling, now in the boys dormitory. Rian gives a loud yawn, abandoning any professionalism he may have had. "If you ever get lost, you’ll know the girls' dormitory from the boys’ because this hall always reeks like sweaty bullocks- thanks to an unnamed gelfling." Rian trails off in a way Gurjin can only assume is meant to be humorous. "It’s Tolyn, in case you were wondering." Rian admits anyway, "Stinking bastard, that one."  He grumbles under his breath, reading through his paper to see which poor soul is to be damned. "Which ones Gilli?" the Stonewood soldier asks, scanning the faces of the men. A skinny Spriton steps forward. Rian frowns at the unfortunate luck."Well, you’ll be staying with Tolyn." Rian says with slight pity. "Thra be clement." Rian smiles sympathetically. The gelfling looks to Rian with a worried expression as he turns to the door."Don’t worry, you’re both Spriton, maybe you two can talk about-" Rian shrugs, "I dunno- knock-knee or something." Rian grunts as he roughly kicks the base of the door. "Tolyn!" Rian shouts. He waits in silence for a moment before sighing, turning to the Spriton, "He’ll be out in a minute." He explains looking to the list once more as he moves on, only a couple more guards left."So which one is Ari?" He asks, the smaller of the two gelfling stepping forward, Rian stares for a second. "Uh- yes, right, you’re bunked up here with Palis." Rian stammers with a smile, as he knocks and quickly informs Palis of his new roommate. The two greet each other respectfully, Palis shutting the door as he helps Ari with his bag. Rian takes a breath as he stares at the shut door, feeling the tall Drenchen’s eyes on his back. He turns to him and looks to his page. "Gurjin, yes?" he asks, a little intimidated that this gelfling - that was meant to be somewhat of an underling- is much larger than himself. The Drenchen nods, unsure of how he feels about this guard. He’s been nice enough so far, but he seems as though he doesn’t care too much about his position. "Right, well- our room is just at the end, here." he nods  stepping a few meters down the hall and opening the door to let them both in. Gurjin takes in his surroundings as he enters, looking to the messy desktop and dresser. Above the dresser are some illustrated posters- although upon closer inspection they’re just old flyers for a stonewood festival, it looks like. He turns to his right to find a bunk bed, the beds partially dugout into the wall- most likely to save space. He steps over, taking his bag and automatically setting it down on the bottom bunk. "Oh- Erm.." Rian starts.

"You’re a Stonewood, you climb, don’t you?" Gurjin says, his tone only slightly playful. Rian stares for a moment, he can’t exactly tell if he’s joking or not- Stonewood gelfling are known to be quick up a tree but this seems a little offhanded.

"On occasion." He responds, unable to keep himself from squeezing in some sarcasm. Gurjin doesn’t respond, turning to his back to begin unpacking. Rian watches awkwardly. "Uh- you can put your clothing and other belongings in that dresser. The bottom drawer’s mine." Rian says a bit awkwardly. His performative humour clearly faltering.

"Thanks." Gurjin answers politely, not having it in him to be rude without a proper cause.

"So you’ve come all the way from the swamps then?" Rian asks, simply to break the silence. Gurjin only nods as he pulls some gear from his knapsack, clearly not too interested in Rian’s small talk."I’ve always wanted to visit.. I hear it’s lovely in spring." Rian adds, trying once more to make conversation.

"Mhm." Is the only response he receives. Rian takes a breath, giving an awkward stretch as he tries to collect some more useful thoughts.

"Well, I reckon you should get your uniform on, Captain wants us in the training hall in an hour." Rian nods, smiling awkwardly. Gurjin takes his armour out, not making eye contact. He’s already in the appropriate shirt and trousers, but he’s missing his leathers. The Drenchen sighs and begins pulling on the leather straps, fastening his chest piece, his spaulders over top. Rian watches tentatively, looking for error before plainly spotting one. "You need to be tucking your straps away."Rian says, trying his best to be playful. Gurjin looks back at him.

"Why’s that?" He asks, unsure if he should trust the advice.

"It’s not safe to have things hanging off of you, silly." Rian answers, his lips curling into a smile.

"You’re pulling my leg, I’ve never heard that." The Drenchen squints. Rian sighs, pulling his raggedy cloak back to show his straps safely tucked away. Rian then steps up to Gurjin, reaching forward and quickly yanking him by the armour belt, the buckle unhooking, allowing the strap to be quickly tightened around his chest and shoulder.

"If that happened in a fight, your shoulder’s mobility would be compromised. Then they can drag you forward and-" Rian thrusts his hand forward, making a stupid squelch noise as he pretends to stab the Drenchen. Gurjin shoves the Stonewood away.

"Get off of me." He grunts, reluctantly fixing the buckle and tucking his straps out of reach.

"I’m just kidding around, I’m supposed to be looking after you, don’t you know." Rian explains, crossing his arms to seem aloof.

"I haven’t asked you to."Gurjin scoffs as he continues getting ready. Rian sighs.

"Ah, but the captain has. You’re new, and I’m not. I’m simply here to keep you from being skinned alive." Rian teases, his arms still crossed over his chest. The Drenchen only shakes his head.

"I’ve trained hard to be here.. I’m no childling." The Drenchen says as he straightens himself out. Rian can’t help but roll his eyes.

"I swear I’ll be off your back once you know your way around." Rian says, a little disappointed at his inability to connect with his new roommate. Gurjin gives a reluctant nod.

"Fine." The Drenchen sighs. Rian gives a nod stepping out of the room and beginning down the hall. Gurjin follows, his steps heavy and tired. Rian watches the Drenchen as he walks, taking in his features. Rian hasn’t much exposure to Thra. He knows only the castle and Stone-in-the-Wood- which admittedly is more than some ever know- but the fact remains, he knows little to nothing of the Drenchen Clan. He carefully examines his skin. The skin looks tough yet smooth, stretched over his knuckles the way cushion moss clings tight to stone. His eyes shift to his hair next, he’s never seen it worn that way before- loose braids, and hair tangled into thick tufts.

"What?"  A deep voice drags Rian from his thoughts. Rian’s eyes shift from his hair to his face.

"Sorry?" Rian asks, unsure of what he’s done.

"You’re just looking at me." Then Drenchen says coldly, his bright amber eyes narrowing.

"I just don’t know many Drenchens." Rian responds, trying to remain pleasant.

"I can tell." The Drenchen responds. The Stonewood frowns, understanding that staring isn’t all too polite.

"Sorry." Rian grumbles, looking back down the hall. He takes a large stride ahead to avoid awkwardly standing right to Gurjin’s side. He listens to the sound of his boots, the heel producing a satisfying clack against the stone. He quickly notices that the sound is singular. He looks back for a moment wondering if Gurjin had fallen behind. Seeing that the tall Drenchen is still there, he looks to his boots- or lack there of. He feels his mind flood with curiosity, but bites his burning tongue rather than ask of it. He once again turns back to face forward.
      It’s only a moment later that he squints. His ear twitches and flicks wildly, locating a sound down the hall. Gurjin watches his stupid ears take in the noise- squeaking, quiet foreign chatter, and the sound of small wooden wheels against stone. The Stonewood’s lips curl into a smile as a cart of treats turns the corner in their direction. Gurjin notices a little skip in the boys step as he approaches. The podlings frown the moment Rian comes into view.

"Babbon! Niya zol!" One shouts as Rian approaches.

"Now, what are you on about?" Rian asks with a smile, putting his hands on the edge of the cart to slow their very sudden (and understandable) rush.

"No!" One shouts, yanking the cart from his grasp. The other podling immediately points an accusing finger at the Stonewood. "Ich na zoli!" the podling demands, frantically pointing from Rian, back to the cart.

"Put what back?" Rian repeats, long familiar with that particular podling phrase. "I haven’t taken anything! See?"  he says coyly, raising his hands to present his empty palms. The podling looks to him and grumbles, giving Rian a glare over his shoulder as he begins pushing the cart once more. Rian gives Gurjin a quick smile as he continues walking. Once they’re out of sight, Rian opens his cloak to reveal a few pastries he’d managed to snag. Gurjin scoffs.

"You’re going to be a bad influence, aren’t you?" he says, rolling his eyes. Rian looks to him with an eyebrow raised.

"Hmm," he shrugs, "So I guess you don’t want any?" He teases, lifting one to wave under the Drenchen’s nose. Gurjin swats the boys hand, the small fluffy pastry splatting on the floor. "Well, there’s no need to be rude." Rian teases. He gives the pastry a forlorn look, knowing well that it’s crawly food now. He looks back to his arms to see what else he’d snagged. He clucks his tongue. "Yesmit, guess I didn’t look before I grabbed." He frowns, holding up a seemingly normal bun. Gurjin cocks his head, obviously hinting for Rian to explain himself. "They mark these ones- see that slit at the top? the ones no good." Rian says, carefully tearing the bun open to reveal its filling, crunchy insects scattered throughout the dough. The stonewood makes a silly gag noise before throwing the buggy bun over the rail. It’ll fall into the river below and some lucky fish will have it. Rian takes his last pastry, taking a bite as he walks."Lighten up." Rian says through a full mouth. Gurjin glances down at the boy still chewing. He can’t help but sport a small sneer as the boy stuffs his face full, a bit of jelly smeared on his lip.

"How old are you?" Gurjin asks with a soft scowl. Rian swallows what’s in his mouth to speak properly.

"Just turned eighteen." He says with a grin, wiping his mouth with his sleeve.

"You’re younger than me." Gurjin responds, the Stonewood’s expression falling a tad.

"Figured as much, you look older." Rian nods to him, referencing his height.

"Eighteen you said?" Gurjin asks, stifling a chuckle.

"Yes, why?" Rian responds cautiously while Gurjin’s chortling continues.

"It’s just funny that you’ll stay that height." Gurjin laughs, saying it aloud only proving to make in funnier. Rian’s face sours, he’s not much smaller than the average stonewood. His father is a few inches taller than him, he’ll most likely stop growing when he gets there.

"I will not, I still have growing to do." Rian argues, Gurjin only laughs harder.

"Gelfling stop growing at 16, idiot." Gurjin smiles, looking down on the boy. Rian’s cheeks burn red.

"That’s only a myth!" Rian blurts, clearly flustered at this claim.

"You really think you’ll get taller?" Gurjin asks, still amused. When Rian gives an affirmative nod, Gurjin’s grin only widens "When we get back I’ll mark your height, so we can monitor your ‘growth’."Gurjin chuckles, Rian’s confidence sinking slightly. He isn’t that short. He’s not far from average- for a Stonewood that is- he gives a sigh as they turn the corner to the training hall. It’s rather large, but somewhat empty. He notes the equipment tucked away into the corners. Dull spears and racks of wooden sparring swords. Rian gives a proud smile as he sees the captain. He walks up to his side, leaving Gurjin to observe.

"All the guards have met their roommates." Rian grins, nudging the older Stonewood. "You can take the placement plan if you need it back."Rian says confidently, holding out the parchment he’d been given. The Captain doesn’t take it. Rian frowns, changing the subject. "Are you excited to visit the village? It’s been sometime since we last saw everyone." Rian asks, figuring he’s come across common ground. Gurjin’s ears twitch as he struggles to pick up their conversation. He watches as Rian speaks, the conversation is clearly one sided, the Captain not taking his eyes from the recruits entering the room. The young Stonewood becomes slightly discouraged, still making an attempt to speak, when the captain suddenly opens his mouth.

"Where should you be, soldier?" The captain says coldly, his face unchanged from when he arrived. Rian’s weak smile drops.

"Not here." He simply nods, reciting the answer as though it’s been repeated before. He promptly sees himself back to the Drenchen, walking across the room with pink cheeks of embarrassment.

"That looked painful. What was that?" Gurjin asks, looking to Rian’s disappointed expression.

"Just some Erm- friendly banter." Rian responds, unwilling to come up with something more snide. "Go line up with the other newbies, I’m meant to be elsewhere. I’ll be back for you later." Rian says, his tone slightly less enthusiastic than before. Gurjin finds himself curious about this Stonewood. He seems to have an odd relationship with the captain from what he’s seen. He wonders about that for a short while.

****

      After an incredibly boring orientation to the guard, Gurjin finds himself waiting on Rian to return. Nearly half the guards have already left by the time he arrives, leaving Gurjin frustrated with his poor punctuality. "I was looking for you." Gurjin says, his face unamused. "Where were you?" Gurjin asks, his lip twitching in aggravation. The Stonewood passes him with out a glance. He continues on to a wooden board on the wall with a large piece of parchment pinned to it.

"Uh-huh, right, right, let’s take a look at our schedule." Rian says, completely ignoring his sorry timing. He steps up between a few other guards and looks for his name. He finds it crossed out with another guards name replacing his. With furrowed brows, his eyes move down the list until they land on a similarly crossed out name, only vice versa. When he looks to the time, he sees he’s been switched to a night shift last minute. He turns to the captain who makes brief eye contact before turning away. Rian scoffs."Of course!" Rian exclaims, "that’s what I get, I guess." Rian sighs, seeming more disappointed than anything. He turns away from the board. Gurjin’s eyes narrow at the Stonewood. He simply cannot wrap his mind around the enigmatic gelfling. He figures the guard is just hard to read."Come along then." Rian grumbles as he walks, Gurjin tiredly following him.

"Where are we going?" Gurjin asks.

"We’re going to get something to eat." Rian explains simply.

"Why so early?" Gurjin asks further.

"So we can get a couple hours of sleep before our patrol." Rian sighs, "we’ve been moved to the night watch." He frowns to his feet, not as fond of that particular shift.

"And that was your doing, was it? What- bothering the captain the way you did?" The Drenchen scowls, a little frustrated that his first ever patrol will be in the middle of the night because of his roommate.

"...yes." The Stonewood answers.

"Great." Gurjin shakes his head. He doesn’t look forward to enduring the consequences of this gelfling’s bad luck.

"...so who did Ordon pick on, then?" Rian asks curiously, not looking up from the floor in front of him.

"Huh?" Gurjin asks, confused as to what Rian’s after.

"Every time we get new recruits, he chooses someone to pick on. Was it Gilli? It’s usually the smaller ones." Rian explains. Gurjin gives a soft nod, surprised at Rian’s lucky guess.

"Erm- yes, he picked on Gilli." Gurjin answers.

"Let me guess, for his posture?" Rian asks, "he has timid posture."  Says the Stonewood. Gurjin is even more impressed at Rian’s accuracy.

"Yes, actually." Gurjin furrows his brow.

"I usually like to be there for it but I-.. I had to be elsewhere for a little while." Rian gives a nod, a little disappointed he missed the orientation. Gurjin doesn’t respond to Rian, not caring to ask where he’d been.                                                                                        They spend the rest of their walk in silence, eventually entering the large meal hall. The smell of food lingers in the air- although Gurjin can’t say it smells all too appetizing. They step up to the counter, a group of podling stirring an odd looking soup. They promptly fill two wooden bowls, dropping a spoon in each and handing them over. Rian nods to the podlings politely before finding a seat, Gurjin still staring at the sludgy concoction. He sits down and gives it a smell, not too eager to ingest such a substance.

"What is this?"Gurjin asks, poking at a... well- to be truthful, Gurjin doesn’t know what it is. Rian laughs.

"Ha! Who knows?" Rian shrugs, already at peace with what they’re fed.

"Is it always like this?" Gurjin asks, praying to Thra he doesn’t have to deal with this every day.

"What, soup? It’s usually soup, although I know for a fact half of it is just Skeksis leftovers in broth." Rian smiles, taking a spoonful of thra-knows-what."Try not to think about it." The Stonewood advises through a full mouth. Gurjin looks to his bowl and takes a deep breath, willing himself to eat it. He lifts the spoon to his mouth cringing at the strange texture. He struggles to swallow but ultimately gets the first bite down. Rian chuckles.

"Looks like someone’s used to good home cooking. Ah- what I wouldn’t do to be back in stone-in-the-wood, my mothers an excellent cook." Rian reminisces, quickly eating what’s left in his bowl to be done with it. Gurjin envies this gelflings strong stomach as he forces down another bite. He begins to understand why the Stonewood steals treats instead.

"How do you eat it so easily?" Gurjin asks.

"There’s no easy way to eat it, Gurjin, you just do." Rian puts it simply. "Now hurry up, we’re losing sleep." Rian rushes. Watching as Gurjin quickly downs his bowl, getting rid of it as fast as he’s able. Gurjin admittedly gives a short gag at a suspicious crunch within the soup, but forces himself to swallow it regardless."Great." Rian says flatly. He gives a short burp, standing up with a deep and tired inhale. He takes Gurjin’s bowl with his own and places it with the other dirty dishes. Rian once again leads Gurjin to their room, but when they enter Gurjin goes straight for the desk, grabbing a charcoal stick as rian removes his helmet. He then promptly forces Rian’s back against the wall. Gurjin freezes. This must be the first time Gurjin’s really looked at Rian. He hadn’t noticed his features until now. Perhaps because of his helmet. His entire forehead and eyelids are naturally tinted blue, not to mention his exceptionally vibrant eyes. It takes him aback for a moment. Rian stares at him wide eyed absolutely dumbfounded. His brows furrow as Gurjin snaps out of it, quickly marking the Stonewood’s height before releasing him.

"..monitoring your growth. remember?" Gurjin explains. Rian takes a large step away, turning his face away as he feels it heat up.

"..okay." He clears his throat. Quickly setting the room up for bed, drawing a dark curtain over the sunlit window. He removes his armour in the dark and changes into more comfortable clothes. He turns to look at Gurjin but sees nothing in the dark room. Gurjins bright eyes-much more accustomed to the low light- see the Stonewood stare, but he can tell by the way his eyes flicker around that he can’t actually see much. He watches the boy give up his gawping and climb up to his (new) bed. Gurjin does the same. The boys try their best to get some rest, both gelflings minds clouded with thought.

Chapter Text

  
     Gurjin wakes to clattering equipment, his eyes groggily cracking open. The Drenchen sits up, drawing back the small curtain over his bed to peek out. The curtain previously draped over the window has been removed, but there isn’t enough light left to see clearly, hence the lit candle on Rian’s desk. Gurjin then notices the Stonewood with his back turned, picking up his tunic to dress for his shift. Gurjin watches curiously. He cracks a fraction of a smile, noticing that Rian is quite smaller than he seemed with all his gear on. The small surprise amuses Gurjin more than he’d admit aloud. The blue dusted skin on his ears and beneath his fringe also covers a good deal of his upper back, his shoulder blades especially vibrant. Still peaking through the crack in his curtains, he sees faded lines strewn about his back, some diagonal but mostly horizontal. He briefly wonders whether these marks are also from birth or perhaps a consequence of something more recent. He adjusts his position to get a better look, but the shrill creak of the old mattress beneath him gives him away, the Stonewood immediately turning to him.

"You’re up." He says, his voice dulled with sleep. "Good." He adds quietly, trailing off in a yawn. He pulls his shirt over his teal shoulders and tightens the lace around the collar, picking up his armour. Gurjin gets up onto his feet as Rian pulls his spaulders on. As Gurjin dresses himself he wonders if all Stonewood’s have the same skin as Rian. The vibrant blue markings are like nothing he’s seen before. Perhaps he’s mixed with some other clan. He brushes away the thought, but surely he’d know if all Stonewoods were blue. He must be some kind of special case. Once he finishes dressing, Gurjin turns to Rian who’s just finishing lacing his boots. "Are you ready?" Rian asks, his voice still groggy. Gurjin nods, just as tired as the Stonewood in front of him. Rian stands with a slight groan and takes his lantern, fastening it to his hip, and holding his spear firmly in his left hand. Gurjin is quick to notice the maladroit grasp.

"Left handed?" Gurjin asks, looking to Rian’s hands, even the backs, tinted blue. The uneven blue patches and specks make his skin 

"I am." The Stonewood affirms with a small nod.

"Figures." Gurjin grumbles with a drawn out yawn. Rian’s brow furrows in slight offence.

"What’s the matter with that then?" Rian tilts his head in annoyance.

"In Drenchen folklore, lefties are impish." Gurjin states with a shrug. Rian frowns at the rude assumption.

"Impish?" Rian asks, earning a nod from Gurjin. "Hm.. well, I’m no imp." He confidently assures. His grip on his spear only tightening further. Gurjin shakes his head with a chuckle but argues no further. He watches as Rian steps from the room, the Drenchen trailing behind him. He watches Rian’s back, his cloak riddled with pilling and moth holes. Gurjin wonders how such worn textiles keep him warm. His eyes shift to his dented helmet, noticing the way Rian bobs up and down with each step. He looks like an idiot. Gurjin thinks to himself. They can’t have been walking more than five minutes before Gurjin lets out a sigh.

"So, I have to stay with you all night?" Gurjin asks, obviously pestered by the idea.

"Yes. Unless you want to be lost- in which case, by all means." Rian gives a shrug, not bothering to look back at the Drenchen. Gurjin decides not to take his chances with this one, still trailing behind the Stonewood. Neither of them speak for a while, the repetitive and rhythmic sound of their gear lulls the Drenchen into a slight daze. He thinks about home in the Smerth. He internally kicks himself for this thought, but he’d much rather be there. At his family’s dinner table, or with friends. He hadn’t expected to be saddled with a gelfling like Rian. He senses something quite off about him and it pesters the Drenchen in a way he cannot describe. Secretly eager to learn more of him, Gurjin speaks.

"How did you get here?" Gurjin asks with a twinge of malice in his tone, obviously implying that his position is some kind of mistake. Rian turns his head slightly, seeing the Drenchen briefly in his peripheral.

"I’ve been in the castle my whole life. I’ve been training here since I was small." He answers, selectively leaving out details. His journey to becoming a castle guard has been a unique  

"You’re a liar. How could that be?" Gurjin squints ahead at the Stonewood.

"The captain is a strict man, Gurjin." Rian smiles.

"The captain just took you here??"

Gurjin tilts his head in slight shock.

"Well, he didn’t kidnap me?" Rian responds, his ears growing pink at the edges.

"So, what, are you an orphan or something?" Gurjin asks, unable to understand why the captain would do that. Rian sends him an odd look for the awkwardly personal question.

"No- well-" Rian stumbles over his words, regretting the hole he’s dug for himself. "Never mind." He shrugs nervously, but Gurjin continues. He thinks on it for a moment. ‘There’s no way the captain would adopt an orphan and bring him here.’ ‘He mentioned his mother, so he can’t be orphaned, but there’s no way Rian just made it into training at such a young age, so why would he-.’ Gurjin stops mid thought as a realization dawns on him. Aside from the odd colouring and fringe, Rian does look an awful lot like Captain Ordon. Gurjin slaps his palm against his forehead.

"He’s your father isn’t he?" Gurjin asks, watching closely as Rian’s body tenses at the word. Gurjin grins, observing Rian in a completely new light.

"N-no- I mean-! No." He stammers, unintentionally picking up his walking pace. Gurjin speeds up as well, a smirk spread across his smug face.

"He is! Ugh- this makes so much more sense!"  Gurjin says, belting out a laugh. Rian’s ears hang at the sound. "So, THAT’S why you’re here."  Gurjin sneers, his voice taunting and rude. Rian stops in his tracks, looking behind him. The Drenchen towers over him, but his size doesn’t bother him in the slightest.

"Fix your tone, Drenchen. You know nothing of me."  Rian shoots back, his eyes fixed on Gurjin’s. The taller gelfling shakes his head.

"I know all I need to know." Gurjin holds his chin high, "Stealing treats and causing racket- you got your spot because papa’s letting his childling play pretend." Gurjin leans down a touch to drive his words further into Rian’s face. The Stonewood stares at him, his hands balled into fists- he cannot believe the words from this gelfling’s mouth. To have just met someone and already treat them with such callous disrespect, is beyond his understanding. Rian takes a moment to think carefully on his actions. He lets out a heavy huff through his nose, before working up the composure to speak.

"I’ve worked my entire life to be where I am. You don’t know me, and you don’t know my father." Rian says sharply, his eyes not wandering once from Gurjin. The Drenchen looks to him with a slight squint. He has to admit, the Stonewood is a tad more difficult to read than he’s used to, but he trusts his gut. His eyes look flicker to Rian’s hands as he unclenches his fists. Gurjin scoffs as he backs down.

"Coward." He says simply, understanding that much. Rian gives a soft shrug, chewing his tongue to bite back a threat. He turns and continues walking, his lantern still clattering against the equipment on his hip. Gurjin studies the boys back again, hair still peaking from his helmet. He’s fully in uniform here, from head to toe. Gurjin would say the same for himself, but he couldn’t bear to stuff his feet into those little boots. Rian walks in silence, a little thrown off by Gurjin’s abrasive attitude. He’s dealt with rude guards, but never one so difficult to speak with. He thinks about the gelfling behind him for a moment. He’s curious about him, but the gelfling seems bothered by questions. "You’re boring me. Aren’t you meant to be teaching me about the guard?" Gurjin asks with genuine curiosity. Rian perks up- he was so lost in thought, that he’d forgotten he was with someone. He looks to his feet for a moment, considering his complaint.

"Suppose I am.. What do you want to learn about?" Rian offers, figuring at least if he’s teaching him, Gurjin would be a little more polite.

"What are the expectations like?" Gurjin asks, forcing a groan from Rian.

"That bored, huh?" Rian asks before looking up in thought. He’s been living in the castle and following these rules for so long that he isn’t quite aware of them anymore. He wipes the sleep from his eyes as he collects his thoughts with a drawn out ‘uhhh’."Well- there’s the easy stuff, like being on time, be respectful at all times, and it’s usually a safe bet to not speak unless spoken to when around Ordon. You’ve seen me try after all." Rian says with a brief pause he doesn’t seem to notice. "He’s incredibly strict and doesn’t stand for insubordination of any kind. If you talk back you can expect consequence." Rian explains, trying to be sure he covers each topic well enough.

"What kind of consequence? Like punishments?" Gurjin asks, taking mental note of his advice.

"Exactly. Talk back, and he’ll really give you an ear beating. You usually have to do something humiliating while he scolds you. It’s most often in front of other guards, and he’ll make you kneel, or sit with your nose to the floor. It can get much worse than that, but you really have to earn those punishments." Rian tries to describe the punishments he’s seen and experienced. Gurjin looks to him, intrigued. Rian notices and continues."It’s sort of hard to get the worse punishments, but those include, poor schedules, custodial services, altered meal arrangements, and if it’s bad enough, you can receive lashings." the Stonewood lists, aware that there are other punishments but none so common as those. That last one piques Gurjin’s interest.

"Lashings??"

He asks, surprised that such an intense punishment exists with such young recruits.

"Yes, the Skeksis Lords believe that physical punishment is incredibly effective against insubordination. My-" Rian pauses to reevaluate, "the captain.. he doesn’t like to give lashings. I don’t think he’d ever do it without being ordered to- so it’s only really used if the Lords catch you acting out." Rian gives a soft shrug as he attempts to play off the severity of the castle’s punishments.

"How many of those punishments have you gotten here?" Gurjin asks, curious to hear of Rian’s poor behaviour and their consequences.

"Well, you’re experiencing poor scheduling right now, on my behalf. You’ll start training with us in the morning." Rian says with a twinge of guilt. "Sorry about that, by the way, I didn’t think he’d do that." he apologizes, quickly jumping from the sincere subject. "I’ve been stuck doing custodial duties a few times- which isn’t too bad.. I’ve only had the adjusted meal plan once, it’s not fun at all. It’s essentially a meal substitute- Erm- like a little chalky thing with enough nutrients to last you the day." Rian shrugs, choosing to stop speaking where he is.

"Have you ever had lashings?" Gurjin asks curiously, doubting it considering his familial relation with the captain. Rian looks to his boots and shrugs.

"I’m not a troublemaker, I just find myself in unfavourable situations." Rian responds ambiguously "If I can offer any advice it’s to at least stay in the prefect’s good graces." Rian advises seriously, looking back a bit. "He’s a real special one." Rian grumbles, switching awkwardly back to their topic. Gurjin takes a mental note of this.

"Prefect? I didn’t know there was one here." Gurjin tilts his head.

"It isn’t a very official position, but he carries a whacking stick so beware." Rian answers with a slight chuckle.

"Which one is he?" Gurjin asks, searching for a description to look out for.

"You’ll probably see him in the morning, he’s a tall Vapran fella, a bit older." Rian shrugs again, "You can usually tell important people by their helmets. They’re much more ornate than ours." Rian gives the description as best he can.

"I’ll be on the lookout." Gurjin says with a slight nod, taking in what valuable information this Stonewood will provide.

"Yes, do that. I know you think I’m brimming with brush, but I’m serious about that one. He’s not nice." Rian says, turning back to make eye contact. Gurjin watches him intently, still studying his appearance. The intense blue of his eyes- it’s a rare sight for Gurjin but he can’t help but find them eerie as they stare from beneath Rian’s helmet and fringe.

"...right." Gurjin says affirmatively, mindlessly picking at the leather twine on his spear. "Is he worse than the captain?"

Gurjin asks, curiosity drawing the words from his lips. For a moment, Rian doesn’t answer, considering his next words.

"It’s… hard to compare them. Their qualities are very different. My father is strict and incredibly harsh, but he’s a good warrior and even better leader. Prefect Eridd isn’t as strong in a position of leadership, he’s essentially an assistant-mainly due to his seniority- but he takes his job very seriously, and uh.." Rian pauses with hesitation. "Not to be nepotistical, but I’d pick the Captain over that wanker any day." Rian says with a aggravated huff. Gurjin doesn’t respond. ‘Not to be nepotistical’ he says... Gurjin can’t help but chuckle at this gelfling’s outlook on the castle- as if his experience will ever be anything like his own.

The two boys walk in silence the rest of the night, both too tired to converse any further. By the time their patrol is finished the two gelfling drag themselves back to their room, and into their beds. Gurjin wonders about the gelfling in the bed above him. In his sleepy daze, he didn’t manage to get a closer look at Rian’s more private features, the subtle marks and colouration remaining a mystery for a while longer. Luckily for Gurjin’s sake, he’s much too tired to fret over the inconvenience. The Drenchen drifts to sleep to the Stonewood’s soft snores filling the cool night air.

Chapter Text

*****

Gurjin’s eyes reluctantly crack open as a noise pesters his ears.

"Gurjin." says  that oh so annoying voice. His eyes settle on him, peeking in through his curtain. He can see intense beams of light behind the Stonewood and shies away from the sight. Rian draws back with a yawn, sluggishly pushing Gurjin’s curtains apart. "Get up, it’s time to be awake."  Rian grumbles somewhat incoherently. Gurjin, just now recovering from his temporary blindness, looks to the window. They’ve been on this horrible schedule for nearly an unum, and the Drenchen’s beginning to question if he can even take it.

"It’s hardly even morning. How long did we sleep??"

Gurjin asks, still not sitting up.

"Three hours? I dunno, something stupid like that."  Rian says, his blue eyes much more dull than the day they met. Gurjin groans, running his hands across his face. " Come on, Gurjin." Rian says, watching as Gurjin’s eyes slip shut again. Rian observes as he remains motionless. He understands- of course he’s on the same schedule, but the first time happens is truly one of the worst. The Stonewood watches him for a moment. He looks quite strong for some who’s yet to really begin training, even the rise and fall of his chest looks so powerful, like you could pile stones on it without interfering. Rian looks to his feet for a moment, snapping out of it as a small smile creeps across his face. With another yawn, Rian steps away, and grabs his cup, filling it with water from the jug he keeps. He leans against his dresser, turning to face Gurjin again. He takes a sip, the amusement of his plan giving him a kick of energy. After a couple much needed sips of water, Rian meanders over, stopping at Gurjin’s side. The soft snoring from his throat telling him he’s fallen back asleep. Rian gives a slight stretch clearing his throat with a quiet scoff. The Stonewood draws a deep breath.  "GURJIN, WAKE UP!!"  he screams, Gurjin sitting upright but before lets loose a wonderfully embarrassing yelp, Rian throws the water straight into the Drenchen’s face. Gurjin looks around in confusion, before his eyes settle on the tittering Stonewood. Rian would be laughing harder if he wasn’t just as tired, but his amusement is still demonstrated by the groggy, low chuckle in his throat. The joy comes to a halt when he sees Gurjin’s face, intense eyes glaring at him, water still dripping from his face. Rian clears his throat again, averting his eyes for a moment.  "Breakfast."  Rian chokes out, unable to suppress his chuckling. Gurjin gets up and makes for his towel, wiping down his face before kicking off his linen shorts. Rian watches with caution. He studies his muscular figure for a moment before ultimately turning away to give him privacy. He slips into thought as he waits, wondering what Gurjin was before coming here. Perhaps a labourer, or maybe a lad that’s just a bit too into fitness. He chuckles at the thought, stringing together a silly day dream- he can practically see him, guzzling down raw eggs and doing pull ups on door frames. He must’ve been quite deep in thought because he hadn’t noticed Gurjin step right in front of him.

"Never do that again."

He says, his voice deep and intimidating. Rian frowns and takes a step back, his mouth curling into a smile- albeit a nervous one.

"I thought Drenchen’s liked water?"  Rian says rudely, mocking Gurjin’s earlier comment on his origins. Rian’s met with a rough shove in response, his already irritable mood now worsened.   "Oh, don’t be that way."  Rian sneers, his eyes narrowing at the much larger gelfling.

"Or what, half pint?" Gurjin chuckles, "What are you going to do?"

The Drenchen says, leaning down to make eye contact.

"You just watch it."  Rian says flatly, moving to leave the room. Rian yawns as he rubs the bags beneath his eyes. He lugs himself down the hall, begrudgingly aware of the shuffle of Gurjin’s feet dragging behind him. He finds his way into the meal hall, both boys lining up for their breakfast. Rian is disappointed to see the same porridge in his bowl as yesterday. He’d love to whine, but he knows the Podlings have no control over the ingredients they’re given for the guard. He takes his bowl and pauses to scan the room for a seat. Gurjin passes him. Over the last few weeks he’d found himself a few buddies to eat with. Rian doesn’t presently see anyone he’s particularly fond of- nor does he have the energy to strike up a conversation. He brings himself to a table and sits down, thankful for the peace and quiet. This table usually isn’t too loud. He looks up across the room, and makes accidental eye contact with Gurjin. The Drenchen sends a rude look in his direction, immediately moving Rian’s gaze with a head shake. He lifts the wooden spoon from his bowl, preparing himself for the taste, when he is suddenly yanked backward by his hair. He squirms out from the grip, unsteadily trying to keep his balance on the bench. He looks up to see Tolyn, chuckling at him. The Spriton continues walking, laughing with a buddy of his.  Rian turns forward once again, leaving the situation be. He stares into his bowl for a second, his ears twitching out of his control. It was bad enough just having Tolyn and Errid around, but Rian can’t put up with another one. As he places his spoon in his mouth, his eyes meet Gurjin’s again. He isn’t pleased to see him hiding a chuckle. He must’ve seen the whole thing. He lets out a huff of anger as another gelfling joins him.

"Is Tolyn bothering you?"  Says a soft voice from his side. Rian turns to see Mira with a smile. It’s a relief to have someone who isn’t on his case.

"I could handle it, if I wasn’t running on three hours of sleep." He says, his voice, still groggy and tired. "I’ve also got an angry Drenchen after me too."  Rian says, a dull chuckle slipping from his lips.

"And what did you do to deserve that?"  Mira smiles back at him, simply trying to help him lighten up.

"Nothing at first- but I threw cold water over his face this morning ‘cause he wouldn’t get up."  He chortles through a mouthful of soggy porridge. He smiles down at his bowl as he hears soft and sweet laughter from his side. He lets another chuckle escape him as he speaks.

"A Drenchen that hates water, can you believe that?"  Rian says, his laughter only increasing. He looks to Mira as she laughs, trying to contain her mouthful of breakfast. Rian beams at the contagious laughter. His mood lifts, but unfortunately his need for sleep still sends aches through his body. After their laughter dies down, they spend a few moments eating quietly, Mira carefully watching Rian’s face. He looks far too tired to be up and about.

"Are you feeling alright?"  She asks, a note of concern in her tone. Rian looks to her for a moment, giving an affirmative nod.

"It’s like I said, I’ve been sleeping poorly, lately. Captains got me on one of those schedules."  Rian chews. He doesn’t need to elaborate as Mira knows the feeling quite well.

"Hm.. well rotations coming around, it’ll be better after then." Mira assures, "the Drenchen should come around by then as well. He’s probably just figgled."  She gives a hopeful nod as she takes a sip of her water. Rian turns to her with a strange look, biting back a grin.

"Figgled?" He repeats. Perhaps his just too tired, but her choice of words caught him off guard as he bursts into laughter. Mira spits her drink, joining in with an awkward shrug.

"What?!" s he cackles.

"That’s not a word!"  Rian wheezes, slamming a fist to the table as he bows forward.

"It is so! My parents use it all the time!" s he argues, Rian’s state, only worsening.

"Stop!" He heaves, gripping his gut. "It’s too much!" he  laughs. Mira watches as he wipes his eyes, his face flushed and red. Gurjin watches from afar, interested in this gelfling. He isn’t sure he’s seen her before, and has trouble understanding why she seems to be so close with Rian.

"Who is that?"  He asks. His eyes don’t stray as a friend leans in to catch what Gurjin’s gawking at. The gelfling next to him gives a slight chuckle.

"That’s Mira. She’s alright. She’s been close with Rian for a while now. Though, I suppose he has that effect on people." He pauses to chuckle, "they just get so lost in those cerulean eyes of his." h e says in a sarcastically smooth tone. Gurjin gives a quick chuckle as he’s roughly elbowed by his friend, still looking to him. There’s something captivating about watching him laugh. He hasn’t seen him bear such a smile yet. He shakes the thought and frowns, scoffing at how dishevelled he looks- no self respect, he thinks.  Once the gelfling finish what they’ve conceded to call a meal, they move down the corridor to the large training hall where Ordon stands, overlooking his underlings as they set up for the day. Gurjin and Rian reluctantly meet back up here, Mira setting off to meet with her own partner.  Rian retrieves two wooden staffs, meant to resemble spears without the pointed head. He tosses it to the Drenchen as he passes.

"Here, hold it like this, until the captain finishes talking."  Rian says, securely holding it to his right. He moves to stand in line, still holding his spear, firmly. Gurjin follows suit. He finds himself glancing down at the boy next to him, his frizzy hair sticking out from beneath his helmet. He looks further and sees the prefect standing off to the side. The captain explains the training agenda and gives the instructions for proper sparring.

"Your goal is to find openings in your opponent’s defence. Once you’ve found one, you strike." He explains, changing his expression briefly. "That being said, today’s training is not about incapacitating your partner. I don’t want to see any unnecessary force. Do you all understand?" h e asks, his eyes moving down the line. Satisfied, when the group answers unanimously, he steps aside to allow them their space. He watches intently as they spread out and take their form, some gelfling having trouble. He moves up and points out some mistakes, clearly explaining the solution with stern but helpful words.  Rian takes his spear, holding it in his left hand. He takes his stance, his form confident and strong. He puts up his spear, looking to Gurjin to see if he’s ready. The Drenchen gives him a quick nod, and immediately moves forward. Rian doesn’t mind admitting that his training as a guard focused on his swordsmanship. He doesn’t understand hand to hand combat with spears at all, a sword would be much more efficient at this range. That being said, his grip on his staff resembles that of his grip on his sword, making his hold unsteady. Not much to his surprise, Gurjin doesn’t do much to hold back, quickly advancing and keeping him on the defensive. Still, Rian’s training has been vigorous, he won’t give up easily, focusing on blocking Gurjin’s hits until he’ll inevitably slip up. Once Rian sees and opening, he lunges forward, and moves to strike. Gurjin blocks it with intense strength, surprising Rian. Gurjin continues to fight, his swings much more aggressive than needs be. Eventually a slip up on Rian’s part results in Gurjin’s staff knocking Rian’s shoulder, the Stonewood staggering to the side as he holds the sore spot. Gurjin points the staff at him claiming victory over the match.

"You don’t need to hit that hard."  Rian informs, trying not to be too abrasive.

"Can’t take it?"  Gurjin taunts.

"I’d rather return without bruises tonight, is all."  Rian states, still rubbing his aching shoulder. Gurjin doesn’t respond.

***

It’s about the fourth time, Rian’s lost a match, Gurjin’s cocky behaviour only worsening with the captains attention. Rian only grows more desperate to finally beat him, and have some praise of his own. Rian watches closely this match, carefully taking in Gurjin’s moves. His strikes are aggressive and strong but, he isn’t all too fast. He takes note of that. He frowns as he’s beaten again, but stays optimistic, now knowing how he might succeed. This time when they start, instead of waiting for Gurjin to lunge forward, Rian takes the first step. His quick feet meeting Gurjin where he is. The Drenchen holds his staff firmly, and blocks his blows. He grows frustrated, finding himself on the defence now. He watches as Rian attacks in quick succession, a little taken aback. Gurjin tries to flip their position with a strike, but as he draws back, a firm jab of Rian’s staff pokes him right in the centre of his chest. They remain for a moment, both panting quietly.  Rian smiles wide, happy he’d finally gotten the upper hand. He looks back to see the Captain no longer paying attention, and helping another gelfling with their technique. Gurjin notices the drop in his expression and can’t help but find humour in it.

"Ah," Gurjin chuckles, "ain’t that just the way."  Gurjin says, still stifling laughter. Rian decides not to respond, worried the disappointment would carry on his voice. He moves back into position to try again.  The next few matches are more inconsistent, Rian winning some, but Gurjin winning most. They waste away their morning sparring nonstop, until they break for lunch. They eat with their normal groups, Mira still hanging around with the Stonewood. When they reconvene, the captain goes over sparring with a similar wooden substitute in the shape of a short sword. Rian enjoys this part of training much more, as his skills with a sword rival some of the best on the guard. Trine and trine of training have ensured that. As they take their practically harmless weapons, they once again take their forms. This time when they start, Gurjin finds himself lacking in skill. He tries to block Rian’s strikes but it seems like he’ll inevitably find himself and opening. They continue like this, the tables having turned in Rian’s favour. Rian continues to beat Gurjin with his fine swordsmanship, clearly getting on the larger gelflings nerves. The Stonewood doesn’t find as much satisfaction in this as he’d have hoped. He wonders why the same attention Gurjin had gotten was missing now. He looks back to see his father elsewhere and with his eyes turned, the Drenchen swings a good wack into Rian’s shoulder again.

"Ow- watch it!"  Rian scowls, looking to the Drenchen. Their eye contact is filled with aggression, both of them frustrated for one reason or another. Rian blocks Gurjin’s next swing, and the next. They continue to spar with more and more seriousness, the clacking of their sparring swords loud through the training hall. Gurjin lands another whack on Rian’s side this time.

"Would you stop that?!"  Rian says, Gurjin ignores this, swinging his training sword at Rian and knocking his helmet from his head. Rian stops and glares, his eyes narrow and tired.

"What is wrong with you!?"  Rian scolds, Gurjin stepping forward.

"What’s wrong with you!?"  He fires back.

"Do you understand how sparring works, you slimy shit?!"  Rian asks, the distance between them closing a few feet.

"According to the captain I understand quite well."  Gurjin sneers, only aggravating the conversation. Rian drops his sword to take another step, the commotion capturing the attention of those nearby.

"What, so you win a few matches, get a pat on the back, and now you’re some prodigy? The Captain doesn’t care!"  Rian shouts, his words charged with anger and jealousy.

"Stop making it about me! It’s not my fault your father doesn’t like you!"  Gurjin says with a small smirk, taking one final step in his direction. This is quite clearly the tipping point for Rian. At first Gurjin doesn’t know what Rian’s doing, as he assumes a stance he doesn’t recognize. His left foot is forward and outstretched to his right. He then throws his hands forward, grabbing Gurjin by his loose strap and yanking him forward. The Drenchen inevitably trips over his outstretched leg, Gurjin unable to properly catch himself with Rian still firmly gripping his strap. Rian follows him to the ground, straddled over him and cocking his fist. In a powerful swing, Rian plants a solid punch on Gurjin’s face. The Drenchen is only able to protect his head, still hardly registering the situation. Rian only manages to get a few hits in before he’s grabbed by his hair and yanked up backwards.

"Settle down, Stonewood!"  Errid shouts as he pulls Rian back. The Stonewood struggles against his grip, only to feel a blunt blow to his side as Errid knees him. Rian yelps at the pain, still trying thrashing against his grip. Suddenly, Errid drops him, retrieving his baton, and swinging it into Rian’s chest. Rian grabs fistfuls of his shirt as he’s terribly winded, kneeling down to recuperate. His breaths come in short gasps between coughs, his diaphragm, tight and aching. He suddenly has very little faith in their leather armour. Mira, having seen the commotion, has already found her way over.

"Errid, that’s enough!!"  She exclaims, stopping him from hitting Rian a third time. By now, Gurjin’s already stood up, wiping blood from his nose with a scowl. It isn’t long before captain Ordon makes it over, looking over them mess before him.

"What is going on!?"  Ordon demands, waiting for someone to answer.

"He just came at me, out of nowhere!"  Gurjin shouts, looking to Rian, the Stonewood still coughing on the stone floor.

"Why?"  Ordon grits his teeth. Rian doesn’t respond when he sees his father, anger very clearly painted on his face. After a moment of silence, Ordon gives up on an answer.  "Disciplinary measure: thirteen." Ordon pauses to think, "two weeks." h e adds, Rian’s jaw dropping. Rian’s ears turn pink as he hears a couple scattered whispers around him.

"Did you even see what happened??" Rian asks, offended at the unnecessarily harsh punishment. "You can’t be-"  Rian is interrupted before he can continue.

"Rian! Get to my office immediately! Wait for me there."  He shouts, his voice full of raw, unwavering authority. Rian looks up for a moment, making eye contact with Mira. She nervously bites her lip, taking a half step to help him when Rian gives a subtle head shake and stands on his own. Now, with everyone’s attention, he forces himself to walk away as relaxed as possible, hiding the sharp pain his in chest.  With ears hanging low, Gurjin looks to his hand, his handkerchief now stained with small drops of blood. He stares for a moment, adrenaline beginning to wear off as his face throbs. He truly had not seen that coming- a fight, maybe, but he hadn’t expected Rian to be so overpowering. He huffs, before being pulled from his thoughts.

"Gurjin, are you alright?"  The captain asks, genuineness in his tone. Gurjin gives a firm nod, making brief eye contact. Ordon returns to gesture and looks back to the other guards. His face hardens once more.  "Return to your training." He says sternly, the gelfling still staring, "now!"  He shouts, the guards immediately regrouping. Mira takes a step, following the captain as he passes.

"Captain Ordon, if I could just-"  Mira’s sentence is caught on her tongue as Ordon interjects.

"Not now!" He grunts, as he quickly takes his leave. Mira gives a slight huff, turning to Errid.

"What’s the matter with you, hitting him that way! The kick was bad enough! Do you even know how to use that thing??"  She frowns, gesturing to his baton.

"Seems rather simple to me. He was being aggressive."  Errid responds nonchalantly. Mira frowns.

"You’re supposed to hit the outer thigh, o-or his arm! Not his chest! You could have seriously hurt him."  Mira argues, she huffs loudly as Errid brushes her off with a shrug,

"Guess I missed."  He says flatly, not making eye contact.

***

Rian sits in Ordon’s office, letting a groan pass his lips as he gently feels at his soon-to-be bruises. He thinks back on what he’d done. Rian doesn’t consider himself a violent person. He will always stand his ground, but he’d rather resolve the conflict before then. He chews his bottom lip with slight triumph, he’d gotten Gurjin pretty good. After all his shit talking, he finally got what he’d been calling for. His sense of justice is immediately replaced with guilt as he hears loud footsteps approaching. Rian could recognize those boots just about anywhere. He feels his shoulders tense as the door swings open.  At first Ordon doesn’t speak, slamming the door and standing behind his desk to glare at the soldier before him. Rian keeps his eyes low, knowing better than to challenge his father’s gaze. He freezes up in some faint hope that he’ll disappear into the thick silence.  He waits for his father to begin scolding him, but it doesn’t happen. He looks up for a moment to check that he is in fact standing in front of him, and he sees expectant an expression. Rian figures he’s to talk first.

"Father-"

"Captain."  Ordon corrects.

"Captain," Rian says, his voice small and tired, "I know, Gurjin shows promise, but I’m really struggling to get along with him. He’s very.. strong willed."  Rian admits, treading lightly with his words. Ordon doesn’t answer, not satisfied with that explanation.

"I keep trying to teach him, I really do! He just won’t listen!"  Rian tries to explain as best as he’s able.

"M-Maybe it’s just, the scheduling.. we’ve hardly gotten any sleep the past two weeks-we’re just exhausted! It’s making us too irritable- hah!” Rian laughs humourlessly. "He hit me over the head with his sparring sword- just l-let me show you!"  Rian says, carefully standing and reaching over the desk to dreamfast. Ordon shakes his head.

"It’s unprofessional to dreamfast with an underling."  Ordon states. He won’t facilitate a dreamfast for something this infantile.

"But, how are you meant to believe me, if-"  Rian frowns, taking his seat once more.

"Rian!" Ordon interrupts, "Gurjin is Maudra Laesid’s eldest."  Ordon spits, Rian’s eyes widening at the news. He looks to his lap for a moment, knowing what kind of ridiculous clan drama he could have caused, considering his fathers connection to Maudra Fara.

"I-.. but he-"  Rian tries to justify his behaviour, but is interrupted. He’d expected so.

"Rian, it makes no difference- not to the Maudras. You’re to apologize to Gurjin tonight, I’ll be checking with him to make sure you do."  Ordon says, clearly giving no alternative option. Rian takes a deep breath, willing himself to accept the conversation as over.

"Yes, captain."  Rian concedes, not wanting to further punish himself. Ordon looks to Rian for a moment, his eyes very briefly softening as he sees the soldier frown. It’s hard to look at him when he’s mopey, it reminds him of the boy when he was small. The creased brow and pout is all the same as it was as a childling.   It takes a moment for him to realize his staring, Rian’s eyes still low, obviously waiting to be released. Ordon sighs and looks to his hands.

"You can’t behave that way. Not in front of the new recruits, it makes all of us look bad."  Ordon says, his voice lowered. Rian continues to stare into his lap.

"Return to the training hall and sit out. You’re dismissed."  Ordon says clearly, watching the boy carefully stand, caution in his movements. He removes himself from the room. Rian walks down the hallway, and as quietly as he can, slips back into the training hall. He walks along the wall to avoid being seen and carefully plants himself down on the bench. In time out, like a childling. He shrinks down, a small groan forcing itself from his lips. He sighs at the pain in his side. Of course, Mira was quick to notice his return and makes her way over.

"Are you alright?"  She asks, standing in front of him. Rian looks up and gives an affirmative nod.

"What did your dad say?"  She pokes, simply wanting to know how he’s feeling. Rian both loves and hates that about Mira. She’s so kind and wants so dearly to empathize and understand him, but sometimes Rian would rather just keep things private.

"He just got angry and told me to sit out. Not much more."  Rian answers simply, maintaining the small barrier he keeps.

"How’s your pain? I saw Errid hit you."  She asks further. Rian nods.

"It hurts. It’ll leave bruises, but just bruises."  He says with a simple shrug, not caring to delve into the specifics of his minor injuries. Mira gives him a saddened look.

"You’ll let me have a look after training, then?"  She asks, her voice still nothing less than concerned. Rian offers up a small sigh, nodding reluctantly as Mira stares.

"Sure.."  Rian concedes with a shrug, not bothering to argue with her. She responds with a nod, turning to leave.

"Hey," Rian calls, once again occupying Mira’s attention. "Thank you- for looking out for me." Rian nods, genuinely grateful for her kindness. Mira sends back a simple smile, continuing on her way. Once she’s left, the warmth of her presence chooses not to linger. His mood drops a notch as a certain drenchen captures his gaze again. Rian watches Gurjin continue sparring with another partner, disdain printed across his face. Gurjin doesn’t hit his new partner, in fact the match looks fairly even. Rian’s eyes drop to his feet, feeling quite discouraged over this hiccup. He fails to understand what makes it so difficult for things to just work out. He’s a promising soldier- he’s sure of it. Rian blocks the thought before he can sink any deeper in thought. He covers his mouth with a yawn- perhaps this isn’t the worst that could happen. He rests his elbow on his knee, his chin in his palm. He lets his eyes fall shut, just for a moment to rest his very tired eyes. He feels himself relax a bit, the pain becoming slightly lessened as he begins to drift. His moment of rest is short lived as Captain Ordon clears his throat in front of him. Rian adjusts his position accordingly, straightening his back and folding his hands in his lap.

"Sorry."  He utters quietly, not looking any higher than his boots. Ordon turns, standing just to the side of Rian and facing the guards.

Still facing away, he speaks.

"Rotation is coming about. I’ll see to it that your shifts run through morning till past noon, but hear me, soldier, worse consequences await you if your behaviour persists beyond that point."  Ordon says harshly, but quiet enough that only Rian’s keen ears flicker at the sound. Rian is shocked by the sudden show of mercy. His father has never bent in his favour on the guard. Such acts of kindness are not too familiar- at least not in a paternal sense.

"Yes, captain. Thank you, captain."  He responds, his eyes moving to study the back of his fathers helmet. He continues sitting about. Rian’s eyes still can’t help but wander to Gurjin. A small part of him is pleased with himself. Considering Gurjin’s size, he should have had no trouble clobbering him. The altercation just made Rian more confident in his abilities.

"I need to speak to you later." Ordon’s stern voice pulling Rian from his daze, "as my son."  He adds. Truthfully, Rian doesn’t know what to make of that. It sounds quite serious, but part of him dearly looks forward to it. He hasn’t spoken with his ‘father’ in a about an unum. Only the captain.

"Is something wrong?"  Rian asks, concern hidden in his voice.

"Later, Rian."  Ordon says quietly. If Rian wasn’t worried before he is now. A random act of kindness? An important discussion later? Like spoiling a fizzgig in its final hours, surely this is the end of the line for the young soldier. Rian slumps back on the bench, beginning to grow restless with the pain in his chest, and now the weight that settles on it. Rian sighs a heavy sigh, fiddling with a few strands of hair. The silence of his father is deafening over the clattering of wooden weaponry.

***

Gurjin doesn’t see Rian again through the rest of the day. Not in the meal hall, and not in the baths. He did however see Rian leave training with Mira, dragged by his arm. Gurjin stifles an annoyed chuckle ‘cerulean eyes’ he thinks. Once through bathing, and having his dinner (if one could even call it that), he walks back for his room, but pauses as he reaches for the doorknob.  Inside, Gurjin hears quiet murmurs and mumbles, leaning his ear closer to the door.

"Ah- Mira, please." Rian says softly, an equally soft murmur coming from Mira. Gurjin feels his ears heat up at the sound. Gurjin takes a breath, taking his key and purposely rattling it against the doorknob. He waits a few moments before opening the door, hoping the gelfling inside are decent by the time he enters. Gurjin’s surprised to see Rian sitting in his desk chair, clothed for all but his shirt with Mira standing nearby with bandages. They look to Gurjin for a moment. Rian is quick to throw his shirt over his shoulders again, but not quick enough to hide the red blotches that will surely blacken over the next few days. Mira gives a huff, looking to the Stonewood with frustration.

"You should wear them, Rian." She frowns, still clutching the thick cloth bandages. Rian shakes his head. Gurjin chooses to ignore the two, putting his things away while they bicker.

"I don’t need them." Rian assures, Mira still unconvinced. Gurjin takes a deep breath as he listens in.

"Rian-" Mira starts. Gurjin fights it, but having to listen to Naia lecture him about first aid has ruined him. He feels obligated to interject.

"He’s right, actually. Wrapping rib injuries can prohibit proper breathing- it can be dangerous for your lungs." Gurjin shrugs not looking over.

"I- I haven’t heard that before." Mira shakes her head, "I swear this is what I learned growing up." Mira defends her treatment. Rian is still quiet, he hasn’t a hint of medical knowledge.

"It used to be common, not anymore." Gurjin responds, noticing Rian’s gawping at him. "Erm- I’ve busted a few ribs.. and my sister’s a healer." He adds, figuring he ought to explain himself. Mira looks to her bandages, feeling a little silly. She looks back up to the Drenchen.

"Thank you." She nods, figuring he ought to be thanked for his advice. Overall Gurjin doesn’t look too bad after his and Rian’s brawl. A fair sized bruise on his cheek and a small cut on his lip. That isn’t to say the pain isn’t there, however. Gurjin looks over to Rian, knowing what the healing process is like for a rib injury. He doesn’t envy him in the slightest. Rian was about to speak when a knock sounds the the door. Everyone looks over, Rian and Mira in slight panic.

"Rian?" Ordon’s deep voice calls from behind the rickety door.

"Uh- yeah, just a minute!" Rian responds, instantly bursting into a silent conversation with Mira. Gurjin doesn’t understand why at first, but it makes sense as she swiftly carries herself out the window, drawing the curtain behind her. Right… no girls in the boys dormitory. Rian stands, up and makes for the door, opening it to see his father.

"Captain."Rian nods, feeling a little bare, facing him in his nightwear.

"I’d like to speak with you now." He says, his light eyes as cold as always. Rian gives a quick nod, stepping outside and leaving Gurjin alone- or so he’d hoped.

Not a second later, does Mira poke her head through the curtain, kneeling on the small windowsill.

"Why are you here again?" Gurjin says, just above a whisper. Mira looks from the shut door, down to Gurjin.

"I need to be. Rian just got kicked in the chest and he’s not gonna do anything about it." Mira sighs with a shrug. "I mean, no one else is gonna do anything about it."  She simplifies her point. She looks down at Gurjin with a frown. Gurjin shakes his head.

"Everything would have been fine had he just left me alone."  Gurjin grumbles quietly. Mira bites his lip in frustration.

"You’re a liar. Rian doesn’t pick fights!"  Mira says, her volume dangerously loud considering the gelfling just outside the door. Gurjin doesn’t know exactly what to say. It’s true, Rian hadn’t been as hostile as himself, but he swung first. The Drenchen looks to the door, as if trying to listen through it. He hears only muffled chatter.

***

Ordon looks to Rian’s stiff posture. Empathetic to his situation. "I wanted to talk to you about your mother."  Ordon starts, Rian’s stomach dropping at the words.

"Has something happened!?"  Rian asks in a frantic tone. Ordon quickly shakes his head to shut down the thought.

"No, no. Rian, your mothers pregnant."  Ordon says, with a slight chuckle. Rian’s face twists even further into confusion.

"Wh- with who!?"  He blurts, before he’s even had the chance to stop it.

"Rian!"  Ordon shouts, offended at the incredibly bold assumption.

"Sorry- I didn’t mean it that way."  He apologizes, he didn’t intend to question his mother faithfulness in the slightest.

"Is she alright? How far along is she?"  Rian asks, still trying to reconcile with the fact that he will soon have a second sibling.

"She’s doing well, not to worry. The baby won’t be coming for another four unum." Ordon says with a nod, calming his sons nerves. Rian can’t help but cringe at what must have been going on during their visit five unum ago.

"Why did you wait so long to tell me?"  Rian asks, curious as to why they haven’t visited since then.

"Times have been busy, Rian. We have duties. Personal lives come second." h e assures the boy, looking to him with a kinder gaze. Rian thinks for a moment. He wonders what it will be, another sister perhaps- he already loves Mythra so much, another sister would be nice. He considers what a brother would be like but his thoughts are paused when Ordon speaks.

"Are you alright?"  Ordon asks, tilting his head.

"About mum?"  Rian asks, his brows furrowing in confusion.

"No, I’m talking about earlier. Are you alright?" h e asks, looking to the way Rian uncomfortably shifts his weight. The young soldier is clearly experiencing some form of pain.

"Errid got me with his whacking stick when he stopped the fight." Rian shrugs, "it’s nothing serious." He adds as to downplay his discomfort. Ordon looks to him for a moment, unsure of how to console him.

"It’s-.. the Skeksis.. they’re very adamant that-"  Ordon attempts, but bites his tongue as Rian opens his mouth.

"I know."  Rian interjects, familiar with the line. Rian looks up as he feels his fathers hand rest on his shoulder. Ordon looks to him with sympathy, clearly troubled to see his son in dismay. Rian takes a breath, turning his eyes away again.

"Have you apologized to Gurjin yet?"  He asks, his voice falling to a more serious tone.

"He’d just returned before you arrived, I haven’t had the chance yet."  Rian explains, feeling his father give his shoulder a gentle squeeze before releasing him. Blue eyes flicker to pale gold, an apologetic gaze.

"Before bed then." Ordon sighs, "Goodnight, son. Sleep well."  He says, the words holding the strong sincerity a fathers voice should carry. Rian’s ear twitches as he leans forward, moving to awkwardly wrap his arms around his father. Careful of his son’s injury, Ordon returns the gentle hug, but Rian is still unable to feel warmth through his thick leathery shell of armour. The young soldier doesn’t linger long in the cool embrace, stepping back to return to their distance.

"Goodnight to you as well."  Rian reciprocates, giving a subtle nod. Ordon nods back. This is a more familiar form of affection to the pair, unspoken, and void of unnecessary touch. An “I love you” of sorts, without the need to expose a shred of vulnerability- a comfortable alternative to an awkward hug- a simple nod. As Ordon takes his leave, Rian turns to his door, carefully stepping inside to see Mira and Gurjin speaking- well- no longer speaking. His presence clearly silenced the both of them.

"He’s left."  Rian says softly, as Mira flutters down from the windowsill, landing back at his side to continue mothering him.

"What did he say?"  Mira asks, a pale hand taking his arm

"Nothing. I think you should get going, though. It’s late."  Rian says, not quite ready to share as he’s unsure he’s even processed the news himself. Mira’s expression shifts in slight concern, but she releases the Stonewood anyway. Rian doesn’t mean to be rude, and Mira is aware of this, but she still wishes Rian would be more open about what happens in his personal life. She hops back up onto the windowsill, looking to Rian once more.

"I’ll see you in the morning, Rian."  She says kindly. She gives Gurjin a look to bid him bye, but not quite amicably. She hops from the window, her delicate and shimmering wings, fluttering softly as she makes her way back to her own dormitory. Gurjin stares to the window as Rian takes a breath.

"I’m sorry about today." Rian says, his voice calm and soft. "I was out of line, and I hope I didn’t hurt you too badly."  Rian says, regardless of how he feels about the situation.

"I’m fine." Gurjin says simply, looking to Rian’s shirt covered chest. "I’ll be honest I thought you were pulling my leg about the whacking stick thing."  He says, his voice not playful, but not quite as serious as before. Rian shakes his head.

"I’m sorry again."   Rian apologizes, before placing a hand on the protruding stones that make his ladder. Gurjin shrugs, unsure of what to say. He can’t lie to himself, he’s still aggravated at the gelfling. He takes a breath and speaks without thought.

"What did your father want?"  He asks. Truthfully, Gurjin doesn’t know why he bothered to ask, he’d already refused to tell a close friend- why would he be a more trustworthy confidant? Rian, now half up his ladder considers his answer for a moment.

"A family matter back home, that’s all."  Rian shrugs as he climbs into his bed. He draws his curtain and gently lowers himself down into his blankets. That’s the last Gurjin hears from Rian that night, but Rian’s mind continues to silently run. It’s difficult to imagine another childling in his home. Rian has never once doubted his parents love for him, but he does worry about another childling.                        Rian and his father can be explosive, both being incredibly stubborn and abrasive. The situation is only worsened without Shoni’s strict mediation. With each younger sibling, Rian feels closer and closer to falling out with his father. ‘What if I don’t get any better as a guard?’ He thinks, ‘what if the new childling is some kind of soldier-prodigy?’ Rian worries. He drags two hands down his face, dragging his features into a taut mess of nervous tension. He expels a soft sigh, turning to his side and pulling his blanket over his head. Eventually his exhaustion overcomes his nerves and his eyelids fall heavy over cerulean lookers. Gurjin, still awake, notices the soft snoring start above him, wondering if Rian had also been awake until this point. He turns to his side, perplexingly more content to sleep knowing Rian had already fallen still.

Chapter Text

Rian’s eyes reluctantly crack open as his curtain waves in a cold breeze. He releases a stiff groan, rolling to his front and suspending himself on his elbows as he brings himself to his knees. Despite the fight being over a week prior, the pain in his chest persists-albeit much duller than before. He’s tried his hardest to be easy on himself this past week, but without changing his work schedule it’s been close to impossible. He peeks through the curtain and grumbles at the parted shutters.

          "Why are the shutters open?" he grumbles as he sits up, the chilly air nipping at his shoulders and ears.

         "It was stuffy in here." Gurjin’s voice responds from below. Rian releases a heavy sigh, wrapping his blanket over his shoulders. He wishes his roommate wasn’t such a fan of cool damp air.

         "But now it’s cold." Rian frowns, rubbing his ears to warm them. He continues to mutter as he tightly wraps his thick quilt over his head and shoulders like a cloak.

         "Be quiet, you sun bug. It’s not even cold out." Gurjin sighs, "I don’t know how you live in such a dry room, it’s so harsh, I’ve been having nosebleeds at least once a week." Gurjin complains as though Rian cares for him.

         "Moving back to the wetlands is always an option, you know." Rian advises, crawling over to the edge of his bed. Gurjin only hums, obviously not finding much humour in his words. Gurjin stares off, uncertain of what the day holds.

         "What are you supposed do on days off?" Gurjin asks, still unfamiliar with what his options are.

         "That’s today?" Rian asks, groggily staring at nothing. He covers his mouth with a loud yawn.

         "Yeah." Gurjin says, looking to the small calendar. It looks terribly out of place, hanging in the middle of a blank wall.

         "Just today?" Rian turns his head to look over, eyeing the hand drawn calendar, clearly done by himself.

         "No, tomorrow as well."  Gurjin yawns.

         "Thank Thra.." he mumbles. "In just about any other circumstance, I’d go hang around Mira, eat, or bathe whenever I like.." Rian smiles at the possibilities. He leans back into his bedding. "I’ll be having a nice sleep in today though."

         He sighs as he snuggles back down into his pillows.

         "Are you gonna get up at all?" Gurjin asks, looking up to Rian’s bed, his arm carelessly hanging over the edge.

         "I will, I just really need a bit of a rest." Rian yawns again as he curls up, letting his eyelids grow heavy. Gurjin shrugs his shoulders, pulling on his trousers and tunic. He pulls his cloak around him, the tightly woven fabric draping over broad shoulders. With a quick glance into the small mirror above the basin, Gurjin heads out. He’s been in the castle long enough that he can make his way around without too much confusion. He sighs in relief when he makes it to the meal hall. He gets his breakfast and carries it over to his usual seat. His friends give him a playful shove as he sits.

         "What’s new, Gurjin?" One asks through a stuffed mouth. Gurjin smiles and sends a relaxed shrug.

         "Not a whole lot. I’ve got today and tomorrow off." He says in a slight brag. The other gelfling groaning in jealousy.

         "Lucky bastard." he says, shoving another large spoonful in his mouth. He looks up, leaning back on his bench to peek around.

         "Where’s the other one?"  he asks, obviously speaking of Rian.

         "Still in bed." he says as he brings his wooden spoon into his mouth.

         "Yeah, I wouldn’t be in a rush to eat either." the gelfling beside him grumbles. Gurjin furrows his brow, curiously. It takes a moment for the smaller to realize Gurjin’s prodding gaze.

        "Come on, you were there! Ordon gave him that fucked up food thing."  He says, reluctantly feeling sorry for the gelfling.

        "Don’t tell me he hit you that hard!" Another gelfling laughs, Gurjin’s ears turning pink over the embarrassment. One of the Spritons hums as he swallows, looking to the others.

         "Saw him come in for meal time with a mortar and pestle." he says, quickly shoving another spoonful into his mouth. Gurjin still finds himself confused. He recalls Rian briefly describing the meal replacement but doesn’t remember what it is or why a mortar and pestle would be involved.

        "Why would Rian-" Gurjin’s question is cutoff by loud shushing as his friend nudges him. He looks between his group before his eyes spot Rian entering through the door. Surely enough his got his mortar and pestle in hand. He moves up to the counter, where the podlings hand him his plate, set aside just for him. Gurjin can’t make out his words, but it’s clear what he’s asked for when the podling hands him a large water cup with a spoon. His eyes follow Rian as he sits back down, waiting a moment as if mentally preparing himself for a painful endeavour. He sighs, taking the stupid vitamin puck as he drops it into his mortar. He then lifts his pestle and begins grinding it down into a gritty powder. Rian’s ears burn pink as he sees Gurjin’s entire table watching him from his peripheral. Gurjin continues to watch Rian, the Stonewood dumping the powdery leaf mixture into his cup. He stirs it with a wooden spoon, before lifting it to his lips with a brave gulp. "So what is it?"  Gurjin asks, still watching.

         "Leaves, roots, raggle-berries..  they mush it all into a paste, then dry it out. It’s all super nutritious stuff, but it tastes like dirt." The vapran says with a shrug. "That’s smart though- putting it in water, I mean. Wish I’d thought of that."  He says, thankful to shovel another spoonful of porridge into his mouth.

         "He may be a miserable bum, but that git can squirm his way around anything."  The Spriton says, earning snickers from the small table. Gurjin watches Rian guzzle down the cup of muddy water. Rian doesn’t linger a moment after he’s finished. The many eyes on him, only serve to embarrass him. 

“***”*“***”

         Gurjin doesn’t see Rian for a while, he doesn’t see him in their room and he doesn’t see him at lunch. Perhaps he’s snuck off with that pale girl Gurjin can’t seem to remember the name of. He wonders what their situation is. From the interactions he’s witnessed, Rian seems slightly disconnected from her- although, he acts that way with everyone. They must have something for each other, considering the way the girl babies him. Maybe it’s a one way thing..  Gurjin makes a mental note to stop examining Rian’s poor social skills so closely. Gurjin fills his mind with more important matters, as he reaches for his towel and small bag of toiletries. In an odd way he’s excited to bathe at this hour. Who else would? A nice quiet time in the water is just want he needs for some relaxation. He walks down the hall with a smile, not seeing many gelfling other than the ones at their posts.

          He’s quite relieved to find the baths absolutely empty, the quiet room is such a relaxing alternative to the young soldiers that constantly roughhouse and scream over one another. He removes his shirt, and his trousers, setting his towel and bag down at the edge of the large pool of warm water. He admires the baths here, thankful for the clean warm water.

         Sitting on a large submerged stone, he begins cleaning himself, lathering his smooth, fern tinged skin with some soap from the Smerth. It smells like home, like rich verdure and mud. Some might advise against cleaning oneself with soap that smells of a swamp, but Gurjin couldn’t imagine a more welcoming smell.

         Once he’s through cleaning himself, he takes a moment to enjoy the warm water around his body, letting himself slowly sink down until he’s fully submerged beneath the surface. Once holding his breath becomes a slight bother, he lets his air out in a burst of bubbles, allowing his gills to peel away from his neck. He flexes them to pass some water through, starting slow just in case the water is poor to breathe in. Once he’s determined that he’s well to continue, he lets his eyes slip shut, relaxing in the warm water around his body.

         Finally allowing himself a moment of rest, he’s unable to stop his mind from wandering- and of course it wanders to that blasted Stonewood. Just He can’t help but be fascinated despite his disdain for him. Such an enigmatic little brat. He thinks of his hair, so frizzy and interesting in colour.. how it starts so dark at his roots and gradually lightens towards the ends, blue streaks strewn about the long waves- like little streams. Gurjin mentally scoffs at himself. ‘What kind of boob brained sog was that?’ He thinks, kicking himself for such a mushy thought. He reminds himself of the way he’d overpowered him in training. It was absolutely humiliating to have a gelfling that size clobber him that way. There must be a way to get back at him somehow.

         Gurjin feels a slight shift in the water against his leg, but passes it off as nothing. Not many guards are off today, even less of them bathing in the middle of the day. He relaxes himself once again, still bothering himself to think about that mutt. With his tattered clothes and stupid little boots. He finally decides to stop with his silly thoughts and focuses on more happy things.

         He’s ever so thankful he’s here despite certain individuals, it’s such an incredible honour to serve the Skeksis and guard the Crystal of Truth. It’s one of the most important duties in all of Thra. It makes him feel needed- he doesn’t always feel that way back home. His family loves him to death and vice-versa, but being the son of your clan’s Maudra isn’t always the luckiest draw. Being from a set of twins accentuated that greatly. Gurjin was born fourteen minutes before his sister, Naia. He is-by definition- Maudra Laesid’s first born, but the moment they found his twin to be female, it meant nothing. Gurjin holds this against no one- he could never. Naia will fill their mother’s role with great honour and leadership, and that will have nothing to do with him.

         Suddenly, Gurjin feels a current brush past his face- Gurjin, startled, is absolutely certain someone’s entered the water now, and snaps his bright eyes open. He’s absolutely shocked to find himself face to face with that stupid Stonewood. He couldn’t be more than two feet away from him. He shoots up from his sitting position, bursting out of the water with a loud splash.

         "What the bloody fuck are you doing!?" he shouts, his deep voice bouncing off the stone walls. Rian backs, up shaking his head frantically.

         "Me? What are you doing?! How long were you under there for!?" he asks in a panic. Gurjin shakes his head, baffled at the strange question- what would that even matter?

         "I was bathing, you fucking freak!" Gurjin fires at him, making his way back to the side to retrieve his belongings. Rian watches, his face burning red.

         "No, no! I- I just came for a bath too! I didn’t know you were here!" He tries to explain. "I got nervous when I saw you underwater, I thought maybe you were hurt!" Rian’s blurts in a frantic attempt to justify his actions. When Gurjin doesn’t respond, Rian lets out a huff of frustration. "I wasn’t- I-I didn’t even see your-" Rian cuts himself off, deciding the sentence is best left unfinished. By now Gurjin’s already wrapped in his towel, his bag in hand, glaring down into the water. His eyes flicker downward, seeing that blue tinge in spots he hadn’t seen previously. He quickly corrects his gaze, his cheeks heating up as he sees Rian still waiting for a response. He internally scrambles for some kind of escape.

         "Good Thra, you are a repulsive sight."  He says, turning to leave. He walks back into the small change room, pulling his clothes back on as quickly as he’s able before leaving entirely. Rian watches the door for a moment, half expecting Gurjin to return with some other line to ease the burn of that last statement. He gives himself a quick look over, taking in the shape of his limbs. He’s never been one to care too heavily on his appearance. He’s always assumed he was quite average in looks and never thought he may be any less. Perhaps a brief reevaluation is in order.

           He can only imagine Gurjin was referring to the uneven colouration of his skin. He’s known gelfling with skin such as his own. Maudra Fara even has the unique birthmarks. He always took pride in sharing that with his leader… maybe Gurjin just meant his height or something.. maybe it was an overall judgment rather than a single unsightly culprit. Or maybe it was just something he had said thoughtlessly.  

         Rian likes that explanation best.

   “***”*“***”

         When Rian returns to their room, the silence is thick and heavy with embarrassment. He’s just about tried just about everything to fix things the past week. He’s unfortunately found himself in a streak of bad luck, unable to do anything properly. Each stupid attempt to impress his father, or do something nice is twisted, and contorted by some intangible force.

         "I promise I had no ill intentions in the baths." Rian blurts unable to string together an easier way of saying it. Gurjin looks up from his spot on his bed, frowning. Rian forces himself to make visual contact with those bright golden eyes. "I’m sorry." he sincerely apologizes, bowing his head forward slightly. "I truly thought you’d lost consciousness- I didn’t see any other reason that you’d be under for so long without me noticing." he adds, still trying to explain to Gurjin. The Drenchen only shrugs, making it clear that he doesn’t care much for this conversation. "I’m sorry." the Stonewood states simply, stepping away from the Drenchen.

        As Rian steps away, Gurjin can’t help but feel a twinge of guilt. Sure, he was angry and still is, but perhaps his last comment was a little too harsh. By no means does Gurjin find him attractive, but he certainly isn’t repulsive. He keeps in good hygiene, and he’s well groomed. He seems well liked, if not, only by a select few. Gurjin is mildly troubled by his actions.