What are you thinking, my healer? " Perawat asked.

" It feels like a dream. I may wake up tomorrow and it will all go away..." he answered intently gazing at them, in the still surface of lake.

" I assure you healer," Alpha chuckled " I will be there to drive you crazy, you can't get rid of me that easily. "

" Alpha...." Prachaya scoffed, his nose crunching cutely while his eyes playfully narrowed.

" And if you promise to call me like that... I won't ever move anywhere "

" Alphaaaaa...." Pracahaya groaned and Perawat winked " just like that my dearest !

" Alphaaaa...pleaseee" Prachaya whined, hiding his flaming face in his hands. Totally embarrassed at sounds he was producing. He had seen other omega's like that with their alphas but none evoked brought same omega instincts in him. The embarrassment further only added to his misery, making him redder every second.

Said alpha chuckled at endearing gesture of omega.
" Don't hide your beautiful face my dearest, it's a crime against beauty."Perawat tugged at omega's elbowed, making him retract his hand. He pointed at the lake "see... looking at you even moon had hid himself behind the clouds, as he should. "

" please " Prachaya pleaded " stop...alpha " He hid his flaming face in Alpha's chest . " No more...."

" Does it bother you my healer ? " Perawat asked concerned. " Alphas in moon tribe...do they not like to compliment their omegas?"

"They do. Its just..." Prachaya curled in to Alpha's embrace, unconsciously making himself smaller "No one has ever....not to me"

Perawat kept one hand on omega's shoulder to comfort him while he raised his omega's chain with his fingers " No one has ever Said the truth to you ? " Perawat asked to the omega whose eyes were covered with his long lashes wet with moisture " It is their sin to carry my dearest. I will not commit the same mistake. "

" I'm not that beautiful alpha " Prachaya mumbled, peering at alpha " There are tons of omegas more beautiful Than me ...."

" May be not in the traditional senses, my healer. May be you are absolutely right. There may be more beautiful omegas than you that I have not seen yet. The things is , after seeing you - i do not wish to see them for I will only see their face and not their soul.
I believe that goddess has given everyone eyes to see the beauty of flesh- of skin and bones. To only a few she provides only with the opportunity to see someone's soul-I have been that lucky bastard and now that i have seen yours, I cannot ever unsee it my healer. "

He smiled at the healer
"Comma is not a nothingness healer, it's an existence of its own- like a dark dungeon where you can see the world but they cannot. But you - you saw me. you heard my silent screams. extended arope to pull me out, unperturbed by the fact that it looked impossible or that i was too deep.
You called till your voice reached me, I was pulled by your voice , calling me home, guiding me home. And I was confused - for I have always been a wanderer- choosing one battle field for another since I turned twelve. There wasn't a place I called home.
Still I followed your voice- in search of a new adventure, new wandering.
And the moment i opened my eyes and saw you- refusing to give up - to pronounce me dead - hanging by the thin strand of hope ... i felt welcomed.
The next moment i gazed in to your eyes- I knew I was a goner.
And I stand by it - I may be crazy, not possessing bearing of my senses. I do not wish to ever come to my senses, my healer. "

" I could never lose hope...never pronounce you de-" Prachaya choked " I Could not because I-"

Alpha waited for further response but the omega stayed silent, his head again burried in alpha's chest, silently trembling.

Perawat didn't feel the need to coax the healer for a response. He was content hearing staccato of his omega's heartbeat - racing like a race horse. He was happy having the omega seeking comfort in his arms. He liked being the source of comfort for the ocean of compassion from whom people find comfort.

He couldn't pull the omega tight against him and hide him in his embrace, drink the sorrow flowing through his eyes and pour his admiration in to his soul through every pore on his skin - the social norms disapproved it.

So he did what he could- he let his pheromones envelope the omega when his arms could not. He let the calm and appreciation fill the air, quilting the omega in its warmth.

He let the omega cling to him, rest his head on his shoulder and let his hands find purchase on his shoulder blade, his fingers clutching as If he was the narrow ledge between the omega and the dark pit of abyss underneath his feet that he was afraid to fall in to- the abyss only visible to him.

Prachaya has seen it all - pity, sympathy, hate, indifference, devotion, appreciation admiration and everything in between.
In his journey of twenty eight years - he had been on one or other pedestal in his tribe - once the most promising warrior. Then the pitiful boy - the supposed alpha turned omega- pitiful wolf stuck in limbo- blindly imitating the omegas and failing spectacularly - the crow between the ducks that were his fellow graceful omegas.

Then when their neighbouring sphinx warrior's (Sveltons that Perawat fought with) tore through his village, sparing not even the children - he was the hero - who tore them limb to limb and bathed in their blood - a feat no other warrior much less an omega warrior had performed. He was a warrior extraordinaire at delicate age of 16 - even the alphas of his tribe bowed to him - and everyone revered him, omegas respected him, alphas envied him. He was no longer the awkward duckling trying to be a swan...he was a league in himself.

Within Three months the pedestal changed again - It is like a hazy nightmare in his mind painted by echos of pain.
He along with group of kids he was babysitting were ambushed by the another troop of sveltons ( sphinx warriors) and taken hostage - dragged to the cave full of hungry svelton cowards who bound him and the kid - planning to make the moon tribe and expecially him feel what they did. Unlike moon tribe Svelton rules didn't have exceptions for revenge. To them everything and everyone was fair- even the kids.
He did what he could. He offered himself. And the pedestal changed - the mighty warrior was now a prisoner standing at altar of self sacrifice for his packmates- at the mercy of sveltons. He had embraced it too - ready to take whatever form of torture the sveltons dished out for him. And he did take it without a sound.

And the pedestal suddenly changed within a week when the svelton general whose brother he had killed, visited them. He wanted more - the slices of skin and broken bones, bleeding wounds weren't enough.

And the pedestal again changed - he wasn't a warrior now- he was an omega- among dozens of alphas hungry to break him. He didn't get time to accept this role. Nothing could prepare him.
He could feel every revolting touch, bite , scratch but he couldn't cut those hands as they took away omega's most valued treasure - his innocence,his bodily sanctity- his ability to procreate.
Mercilessly Clawing and tearing his dignity bite by bite- day and night- they satiated their never ending hunger.

It was their ultimate revenge - to instill the svelton essence so deep in his body that no one could carve it out. And they were successful - he can't forget their cackling , their smirks - he offered them more in fear of same fate falling to innocent kids.
It wasn't until they clawed a kid that his Wolf snapped - the last remnants of sanity snapped and his wolf went in to bloodlust. Nothing could satiate him until he had all those svelton's blood.

The coward general was able to run along with his two cronies. But rest of the unfaithful met their fate by his teeth and claws... his pure white wolf came blood red out of the cave - to see a svelton kid almost being slaughtered by his enraged claws.
Something stirred in him seeing the kid and he clearly remembers standing before the svelton kid daring his tribe to touch one hair on his head. That's when a swerving pain gripped him rendering him unconscious.

Next time when he came to consciousness - the pedestal was already changed - with two moon marks on his hand he was now the moon blessed -his pedestal now decorated with sympathy, pity and reverence . He was the most impure yet pious omega , the most unworthy yet worthy omega for the tribe. It took time to accept but he accepted that pedestal too.

He learnt to lead, to rejoice in public and cry in solitude. To wear thorns on his head with smile and to hide the sting of his heart, to loose himself in wiping other's tears so he won't have time to wet his eyes.
To hold hands of others , to help the walk their path so he won't have time to realise how lost he actually felt.

He learnt to be what people needed him to be. He learnt to give and kept giving without expecting anything in return. And It's been so long that he had forgotten how to receive gracefully.

It took time but he felt that he had found his forever, his one pedestal that never changed - the curse of being moon blessed. The single wolf that bonded couples.

And now, with entry of this enigmatic alpha suddenly his pedestal changed- like never before. And he felt lost - swimming in the vast ocean without anything to anchor him.

Alphas in his tribe has seen him as worthy opponent, accomplished healer, reverent figure, capable leader and respected member but never as just an omega.
Never had he been the object of affection and desire. He had never had someone vying for him. Never spent his days giggling and gossiping about his admirers with other omega or pining for attention of an alpha. Never had an alpha a

It wouldn't be true to say , he hadn't pined for an alpha before- he had - in completely different sense but he had. He had pined to be worthy of friendship of a prince that had grabbed his attention years ago - and he had challenged himself every day, doing tasks other considred impossible- just to be a wolf worthy enough of that royal - he ran himself ragged to be most worthy kin.

And how could he not? The five year old royal alpha was everything he was taught a wolf should be - brave, giving and loyal to his words.
One meeting with the alpha at the fateful blue moon festival and his life was never the same again.

Although He had accompanied his uncle Vera who was a kin of the then King (Perawat's father), to the royal pack's blue moon festival for it's most praised delicious foods and riches. The moment he was left with other kids in palace, he wanted to go back to his pack and his friends. He wasn't a noble kid nor brought up in city life. Although he tried to make friends, no one found his daggers amazing or his skills with his short sword friendship inspiring. It only instilled fear in those kids who kept keeping clear of him.

It was bearable on the other days since he could wander to training grounds or armory and entertain himself with the weapons or simply play spy by hiding secretly and observing the royal court.

Today it was impossible, since the adults were going to blue moon run, so only few officials were left behind in charge. All tge kids were arranged to play and sleep in the great hall of palace so they can be looked after.

While other kids were excitedly sharing stories and playing, he chose a relatively silent and unappealing corner to regret upon his choice of coming here.

He could have stayed back and just like these kids, he could have played and have fun back at his pack. Tears pricked his eyes but he couldn't cry. A moon tribe warrior never cried, especially in public.

Nothing lasted long - not the silence nor his regret - for a lanky kid invaded his carefully chosen space with his dazzling Bright smile.

" Are you missing your pack? You can cry...I will shield you." A short lanky boy, nearly his age stood before him, all serious.

" A moon tribe wolf never cries in public or before strangers" Prachaya replied sniffling.

" Oww..." The kid bit his lip, thinking. " Let's become friends then. If we are friends then you don't have to hold back your tears right? " The kid smiled. " We are friends from this moment. "

" How can we become friends just like that?I don't know you...I dont even know your name .." Prachaya replied frowning.

"I'm Perawat from Rojanapat pack" he offered.

" The royal pack ? "

Perawat nodded.

" You are prince Perawat ? "
Prince nodded again and he instantly bowed to the prince, profusely apologizing.

"Hey...it's okay. " Perawat replied. " And you know what, I was searching for you since last three days."

" For me ? " Prachaya cocked his head.

The kid nodded. " Uncle Vera(Prachaya's uncle) told me he brought you but I couldn't find you. "

" You should have sent for me prince Perawat. "

" But, You are not my servant na Ai Gun (Prachaya's nick name) . Only Father(king) can send for people..." The prince said, horrified at the prospect " Besides, I wanted to meet you so I should come to you, shouldn't I ? "

Prachaya thought for a moment. Uncle had said, to just not say anything rather than blurting - so he kept quiet. He didn't want prince to think of him as an idiot.

"So are we friends now? " Prince asked, grinning.

Prachaya smiled timidly. The prince instantly hugged him. " You can cry now. Mother Says it is not good to hold back tears, it makes your heart weak. "

Prachaya didn't know if it was the warm words or the warm hug itself , he wept. He cried for quiet some time. It seems the prince had come prepared with small pitcher of water and some food - sweets to be exact.

After some time he patted Prachaya's back " Do you feel good now? " He asked. " too much crying isn't good..."

So, Prachaya embarrassingly wiped his tears and face. He chugged some water and even ate some sweets while they watched the other kids gathered around a pregnant omega, listening to a story of legendary warrior.

" They can listen to stories of war and battle for hours but a knife before their eyes scares them..." Perawat mumbled ruefully. It suddenly struck to Prachaya that Prince hadn't seen his eyes fulled with tears, he was speaking from experience. That the prince was alone.

The prince being only wolf ever to have transformed at the age of five only added fuel to fire.

" Wanna parry? " He asked.

" You have sword? " Prince perked up.

Prachaya smirked, standing up, he removed both his short swords from strap at hip and threw one to the prince.

They started exchanging blows while smiling like idiots. A small crowd soon started Gathering around them. They kept at it until both started panting from exhaustion.

" Do you want them to like you? " The prince asked , not knowing what to do , Prachaya again kept mumb. And in a startling conclusion, the prince got defeated.

Only both of then knew that Prince intentionally did not block his blow , not because he could not.

" Why did you do that? " Prachaya fumed upon prince as soon as he got free of the praising crowd. " I can't accept that win when I knew you didn't even fight back.

" Aren't you happy that they like you now? "

"No. What kind of people become happy when someone defeats their prince? What kind of subjects they will turn out to be ? " Prachaya raged.

The Prince smiled " I forgot , you are from moon tribe. Don't take it seriously na. .. they will love anyone who can defeat me in hand to hand combat. "

" Why ? "

" I like to think that they are angry at their wolf spirits for not making them transform as early like me. "

" They are plain stupid. Early transforming is not good. Uncle says early days of transformation are exhausting. "

" They are..." The prince nodded. " I constantly feel achy and hungry. Por says it is common, it will go on till my human body adjusts with wolf side. "

Little Prachaya nodded in understanding. " Let's have a rematch when you are well adjusted with your wolf. " Prachaya offered, " But no self sabotaging allowed. "

Little Perawat nodded eagerly.
" I promise. I am sorry na...You will go back after blue moon festival. I just wanted you to have good memories of our palace. " The prince answered. " I didn't want you to have memories of unfriendly kids or loneliness. "

True to Prince's words, little Prachaya was suddenly a hero among kids . Every body wanted to meet him and talk to him but he only felt welcome in company of a certain Prince so he made himself scarce.

He diligently followed the Prince from a distance until he was confronted by the little alpha in the garden.

" Why are following me Ai Gun ? " The prince asked.

" I'm not"

" Then what are you doing ? "

" Keeping you company. " Little Prachaya replied. " Didn't you say we were friends? Does a friend let you ever be lonely ? "

" Then why did you keep hiding? "

Prachaya folded his hands over his chest " How is it hiding when you already knew I was behind you ? "

" You said we are friends then shouldn't you invite me ? "

It was Perawat's turn to fold his hands infront of his chest and narrow his eyes at Prachaya " Does a friend needs invitation? Then what is the difference between the guests and friends ? "

" We are few hours old friends. I was indeed a guest before that. "

Perawat giggled " Are you going to be an advocate when you grow up? Because you don't let anyone have last words. "

" I'm going to be a warrior like my father. " Prachaya proudly announced.

" You too? " Perawat perked up " Let's become best warrior duo. "

" Yes..." They bumped the fist. The prince linked his fingers with his new friend and took him to raid the kitchens.
...

After spending almost two days, stuck to one another. The Prince found himself quite habitual of Prachaya's company. So when he couldn't find him in any usual place, he made it a mission to find the strangely adorable tribal boy.

Soon , almost all of the palace staff became part of mission and in less than half an hour, the tribal dearest was found crying in the attic of one of the abandoned hall.

The Prince signalled the palace staff to go away and he silently climbed to attic , with help of ladder a staff had kindly put there.

" Why are you here ? "

Prachaya wiped his eyes with back of his hand and looked up at the prince.

" I wanted to cry. "

" So? "

" I am a moon tribe alpha. I can't cry infront of strangers or in public. " the boy replied, sniffling.

" So, you should have come to me. I am not stranger, we could have found a private place so you could cry all you want. " the prince hugged his friend. " But why were you crying? Were you missing your parents and friends? "

Prachaya nodded. " Yes.." He bravely wiped his tears with back of his hand.  "It is my birthday tomorrow. If I were back home. We would have prayed to the moon goddess at night today, then mother would have made me meat balls and I would have gotten the sword tomorrow. Do you know, when we turn six, we get the real swords to practice? "

Prince shook his head in denial.

" We do " Prachay told him, already imagining the scene. " The fathers pass on their blades to sons. It's a family tradition." He said.

" What more do you do ? "

" We offer moon shaped cakes to moon goddess and eat it afterwards. The sword tradition I already told you. Oh..yeah.. we also make our favourite toys and then offer it to holy fire. "

" What ? Why ? "

" It is to symbolise that nothing in our life stays forever in physical form. One day, it will go away but we will still have the good memories and thoughts of it. The things are not important, the memories are. " Prachaya explained " After praying to moon goddess, we light the holy fire and offer our favourite things our the things we carved to the holy fire. Then we search for the golden tailed eagles' feathers. "

" Why ? "

" Eagles are apex predators of avian world right ? They have sharp visions. It is believed that the one who finds it will become strong warriors and also find a good mate. "

Perawat's jaw fell open " is it true? "

" Elders say it is. My father did found the eagle feathers on his sixth birthday. He is most celebrated warrior of our tribe. And he found the mate who were most wanted by all our sister tribes. "

Perawat smiled. " Although you are not in moon tribe, we will celebrate your birthday moon pack way. Be ready tonight na... I will come with moon cake..."

" No but... we are celebrating. Cheer up" Perawat lifted corner of Prachaya's lips with his fingers to make him smile. " So what should we carve to offer to holy fire ? "

" You will do the ritual with me ? " Prachaya lit up.

Perawat nodded. Prachaya grinned with teeth and all " Let us carve a sword. "

" I will carve a four leaf clover " Perawat announced.

" A four leaf clover ? Why ? "

" Your uncle has gifted a four leaf clover pendant to my por, but it was lost in last war he fought. Uncle has not found another four leaf clover since then. Uncle says four leaf clover will bring luck and protection to father. I will burn the wooden four leaf clover and ask goddess for a real one. Do you think she will give me ? "

Prachaya nodded. " surely. You want it for your father na. My por says he who thinks for others first, is especially blessed by moon goddess. "

" Come on then..." Perawat linked their fingers and started dragging Prachaya but he suddenly stopped " I forgot ...here..." he brought of five candies from his pockets. " Have it. You will feel better. "

Prachaya took one only. " Have rest of them na. Didn't you say, you feel as if you hungry all the time ? Isn't it the reason why you carry these around ?. "

Perawat nodded, his fingers already tightened around Prachaya's. He wishes that Prachaya could stay with him forever.

.......

After climbing down the attic, they visited the kitchens where Perawat ate to his heart's fill.
Prachaya shyly asked the staff for candies and sweets and filled all his pockets with it , so he could offer the Prince sweets should he feel hungry. The kitchen staff couldn't help but coo over this adorable pair of friends.

After filling their bellies, they went to the woods to find dried log to carve out.
Prachaya expertly carved the sword of his dreams while Perawat struggled with his four leaf clover, which Prachaya helped him carve.

He also carved a small dagger for the Prince and while prince wasn't paying attention, he quickly carved some secret tiny things and hid it in his pockets.

After completing the mission, the two friends walked back to the palace grinning and giggling.

.........

As the evening fell, Perawat took the basket of moon cakes and walked to Prachaya's room.
Together, they went to the entrance of garden.

" Your highness, " the guard bowed," No person other than royals and their guests are allowed in. "

Perawat turned to Prachaya, seeing his face falling, he quickly turned to guard. Determined, he imitated authorities voice of his father and asked the guard
" Am I not a royal in your eyes? "

" You are your highness. " Guard replied. Sceptically eyeing the tribal boy, wearing feathers in his hairs.

" And he is my guest. Do we not fulfill the rules mandatory to be allowed ? " Perawat replied, eyes flashing red.

The guard quietly moved aside, letting them enter... but Perawat suddenly halted. " We don't want to go there anymore....come on Ai Gun...I will show you a far better place ..."
Saying that he dragged Prachaya who was excitedly peaking through the entrance, back with him.

" Why aren't we going in ? " Prachaya asked confused.

" I don't know..." Perawat replied frowning, " my wolf acts up sometimes. He didn't want to take you there ...he has a special place in mind...come on.." Perawat started dragging him in other direction.

" What can be more special than such a beautiful garden ? " Prachaya frowned.

" You will see..." Perawat replied, being all smug and secretive. The evening was melting in to ebony hues of night.

Perawat brought him to a small patch of singing woods.

" Is it bewitched ? " Prachaya asked. " Why is the forest singing ? "

" No..." Perawat giggled " It has legendary moon flowers... goddess' most favourite flowers"

Prachaya's brows knitted " But they don't exist right ? "

" They do. "

Perawat walked straight through the gates.

" There aren't any guards to guards such precious treasure ? "

" Gates are bewitched. They will lock the trespassers if they aren't permitted by King , Queen or crown heir. Luckily, having an adult wolf, it confuses me an crown heir. " Perawat giggled.

Prachaya couldn't help but giggle along with the prince. Happily they ran in, Prachaya ran around and stood infront of each flowers, observing them with wonder and amazement. He couldn't get enough of the sweet melodic jingling of the legendary flowers. "

Perawat kept chuckling at his friend's excitement. " Come here," he called " I have found us a clean patch..." spreading a folded blanket over the patch, he set the basket of moon flowers and other offerings.

Prachaya showed him how to arrange the offering. They placed all the flowers, sweets and moon cake in gold plates in beautiful designs then burnt three incense sticks and prayed to the moon goddess.

Then they piled up the sticks and lit a small fire...
Prachaya placed his painstakingly carved sword in to the fire " grace me with same degree of patience and clear vision in battle field as I have executed while making this sword. Grace with sharp wit and clean heart as the blade of this sword. Let my hands be chosen by you to protect people, let My blade serve my country and its wellbeing. Let me be the doer of deeds that will make my parents, tribe and country be proud of me. " he prayed then turned to the prince

" You should make your wish to find four leaf clover now,"

" Grace my father with your blessings, keep him under your protection. Let me find a four leaf clover so I can make a protection pendant " Perawat wished.

Prachaya tilted his head in confusion " Aren't you going to ask a wish for yourself too ? "

" For myself? " Perawat puffed his cheek, thinking. " Umm...then I want us to be best warriors and bestest friends. I also want a kin like Phi Vera is to my Father. I want a kin that is also my bestest friend and will be with me lifelong . " So I don't have to do things alone.
He couldn't ask Pracahya to be his kin since Prachaya wanted to be a warrior.

" Just how many bestest friends do you want ? " Prachaya frowned " It's like you want every other person to be your bestest friend "

" Oww... so if we are bestest friends then I can't have another best friends ? " Perawat asked.

" You can...just not bestest one. " Prachaya explained.

" Oh...okay fine. Moon goddess, Let Prachaya be my top bestest most close and most special friend. Also, help us become top bestest most skilled warrior duo. "

" Now offer your clover to the fire..  " Prachaya instructed and close your eyes, the smoke will take our wish to moon goddess.

As the prince closed his eyes, Prachaya took out handful of small four leaf clovers that he had carved secretly. And offered it to fire.

" Dear moon goddess, Let the prince find his four leaf clover before I leave for moon tribe. If he does, I will offer my favourite jade hilt dagger to fire on next blue moon. "

After completing the ritual they sat there, eating the moon cakes and other sweets watching the holy fire burn. After finishing the food , more than half of which was eaten by Perawat — both of the friends stood up and dusted their clothes.

" Now we will hunt for the feather of golden eagle. " Perawat announced dragging Prachaya in to the thick of small patch of forest.

" Don't worry" he soothed the omega " It is safe patch. It's the one father had allowed me to run through when I transformed. "

" Are you sure, you won't be in trouble for bringing me in the forest. "

" I will blame on my wolf " Perawat grinned " You see, father alwats says to listen to my wolf . I was taking you to garden but he insisted on here, since no one other than King or queen can disturb us and you will be safe. You are first friend of my wolf so he is very protective of you. " Perawat provided. " He also doesn't want you to be bestest friends with anyone else."

Prachaya pouted at Prince's chuckle " Your wolf is smart one. "

Perawat grinned " Uncle Vera always says my wolf is reflection of me. "

Prachaya chuckled at the naughty prince
" Let's hunt for the feather before it's too late in to the night. "
And so they started carding through the forest. Perawat's enhanced night vision easily detected the golden feather fallen to his right. He pretended to have slipped his foot and lost balance, taking Gun (Prachaya) along with him, making him fall right over the feather.

" How did you fall ? There's nothing slippery here " Prachaya frowned, examining the dry soil under their feets. " Did you scrape your knee? Let me check
.." he started lifting the leg of Perawat's pants...

" Ai Gun.." Perawat pretended to gasped. " See what us it under you..."

" The feather..." Prachaya gasped in real admiration. Everything else forgotten already,  He picked up and held it under moonlight " There are two! And they are  long ones too ! .."

" Blessed be my friend..." Perawat hugged him, overflowing with genuine happiness.

" Blessed be..." Prachaya mumbled. " Moon goddess approves our friendship. She gave us two feathers...one for me and one for you. " he offered the longer one to Perawat.

Perawat shook his head " You found the feather, so longer one is yours. " he kept the shorter one in his pocket.

Prachaya gasped in horror " What are you doing ? Why are you hiding it ? You have got right to tie your hairs... you must show it off.."

" Huh ? What do you mean tie ? "

" Don't you have rule that you cannot tie your hair unless you find a golden eagle's tail feathers ? We have got the tail ones...we can tie our hairs. "

" No...we don't have any such rules... We braid our hairs after first shift so i already wear braids. I will wear beads when I win my first fight...."

" Oh. ...okay.." Prachaya hung his head, just a tad bit sad. It would be good if both of them would sport their feathers on their buns. " I will wear mine then.." Prachaya said half heartedly. He expertly tied his hair in a half bun and stuck the feather in it.

Seeing him, Perawat too tried to tie up his hair in half bun but his curly hairs were having none of it. The more he tried to tame them in to a bun, the more they resembled a bird's nest.

" You have never tied tour hairs yourself, have you ? " Prachaya asked sympathetically, already taking the task in his hand. He first gently finger combed the hairs and then tied them in a neat half bun before sticking Perawat's beautiful feather in.

"How Do I look?  Do I look like a moon tribe warrior ? " Perawat asked eagerly .

Prachaya giggled " Yep. "

" Then why are you laughing ? "

" You are just too beautiful " Prachaya giggled again "Other warriors in training wouldn't want you around. Or you  will get all the treats. "

" I wouldn't want to be around them too. I am happy to be with you. " saying that Perawat linked his hand with Prachaya " Are you sure we aren't forgetting any important birthday tradition ? "

" No..."

" We are " Perawat chided. " You wait here...don't go anywhere, okay. "

After a min or so , Perawat came with a baby moonflower plant in a small pot " Your birthday gift. "

" Really ? " Prachaya almost jumped in glee. " He reverently held the baby plant in one of his hands and caressed it's leaves with another. " Are you sure I can have it ? "

" Ofcourse. " Prachaya nodded. " It's your gift. You can take it back to your tribe "

" Thank you..." For the First time, Prachay hugged the Prince. As tight as he can. So tight that Prince was sure that the design on the pot was engraved on his chest.

That night, Prachaya couldn't sleep. He was afraid, as soon as he slept someone would take away the precious plant. Or it would just prove to be his dream.
........

Someone did take away his precious gift, but it wasn't that night or next morning when Prince Perawat visited him with more sweetmeats and gifts.

It was when he was about to leave, returning back with his uncle.
The guard confiscated his plant. He was brought before the King. The King didn't punish or scold him but he did order the plant to be returned to the garden. He specifically asked Prince Perawat be the one to return it to it's rightful place, since he was the one that violated the royal rule by gifting it to a commoner.

It was an age old tradition to keep it on royal grounds.
Prachaya hung his head in defeat but accepted the decision. But there was one person who was having none of it.

" With all due respect , your highness," Prince Perawat stood up, eyes flashing red " I will not be returning it to moon forest. Rather, I request the plant to be returned to Gun , since he had received it as a gift and thus have full ownership of land. "

" Our tradition says No one other than a royal can own the moon flower. " King reminded him. " And even a royal isn't allowed to gift it to anyone. "

"My father always say, traditions are set according to demand of situation at that point of time sire, It may or may not serve the present. And if it does not ... it is out duty to set new precedents. "

" This tradition has an important function, Prince Perawat " King chided " and you are well aware of it. "

" I am Sire. And that is why I have given it to Prachaya. The moon plant was wiped from common knowledge because it main ingredient in both highly potent poison and it's antidote. And thus it was being widely used in political assasinations.
But it is also a highly potent medicine for many other dangerous diseases. Besides, many of our soldier's die because antidotes of svelton venom can't be made available to them on time.
If we allow moonflower to be grown on our borders, it can save many of our soldier's.

Besides, what gives us right to keep such a divine plant to ourselves only. Aren't we  stealing our people's right to health and happiness.. ? "

" But..."

" The attempts of assasinations and coups hasn't fallen but tally of deaths of our people and soldier's have risen sire..." Perawat argued " We are no one to keep moon goddesses favourite flower to just ourselves.
Besides, moon tribe had been our most loyal ally. We can't deprive them of of this delight. "

The King smiled " you are not going to listen are you? "

" I am not finding any ground where I find my decision faulty.  That sapling was given to me by you, father. You said, it was mine to be nurtured and cared for. I am giving it to Prachaya. Even by rule of possession, it is his. "

" Fine..." the kind sighed. " You can have the plant. " But you will have to promise to take utmost care of it. "

Prachaya instantly clutched the pot to his heart " I will sire. "

The grinning Prince accompanied him to the gates of royal palace and filled his pockets with candy. In return Prachaya placed a single thing in Prince's hand. " the four leaf clover."

" Where did you find it ? " The prince asked.

" right where you slipped over dry ground. " Prachaya chuckled.

" Thank you..." next second, he was engulfed in a soul crushing hug where Prince made the plans to visit moon tribe in summers.

But the Prince couldn't come due to security reasons. His gifts did come each time uncle Vera visited home.

Prachaya too sent him many things.

For two years their indirect communication went on.

After Uncle Vera's death, there were no more gifts or messages of the Prince.

So he had worked hard, to be selected as a kin. But, alas! He transformed in to an omega! And lost all the hopes of meeting Prince again.

He kept listening to the tales of Prince's mastery over weapons and strategic warfare, but he could never catch a glimpse of his two days best friend since warground was a long lost dream. And so was of them becoming bestest warrior duo.

He had never thought he would get to see the prince again. Much less, that he would gain the prince's attention and affection. Funny, how the universe works.

Prachaya gazed at the Prince, finding many similarities between the kind chubby cheeked boy and thoughtful chisel jawed Prince.

"Thank you alpha, my hair looks best it has ever been " Prchaya broke the silence.
If I could, I would cherish it till the end of my life. Never ever even think about undoing it .

" huh? "

" I have never had my hair in such an amazing braid. Thank you, alpha."

The alpha looked at the omega, wide eyed - jaw slacked. Did he really heard that. Did Prachaya just acknowledged his efforts? And appreciated it. Not once but two times. Telling him in clear words Without any attempt to veil it ?

" Did I really leave Mighty Alpha Rojananapat speechless ? " Prachaya raised a brow, chuckling " If I knew it is that easy to stop your relentless mouth - I would have done it ages ago, alpha..."

Perawat composed himself, his eyes twinkling at the sight of sinful twitch of smirk on his omega's lips.
" Don't think you are easily getting out of it my omega? " Perawat opened his palm " my sagun ? ( 1. a gift given by (typically) an alpha to his omega on first braiding. Can also be gift given by a wolf to omega who first braided his hair after shifting. ) "

" Really ? " It was Prachaya turn to be left speechless. " You are not (omega) ... I mean I'm not an (alpha)....we are not (mates) ... how can I? "

Perawat smirked "Didn't you give sagun to wolf who first braided your hair? Not that I'm complaining where you thoughts are heading omega... " he wiggled his eyebrows making the omega further fumble for words.

" But it's not my first braiding ..."

" But it's my first braiding naa ..." Perawat whined. " You are first person besides my brother whose hairs I have braided. I deserve a sagun."

" But you must have bedded many omegas- "

" You are obsessed with my bedding habits omega..."

" I'm not... I apologize for unwarranted enquiry" Pracahya turned hid back to the alpha, clenching his teeth as his eyes flashed blue " It's none of my concern "

" Will it not interest you at all, if I say I have never bedded any omega in my life? "

Prachaya's turned back in flash " Really! "

" So you do care " Perawat grinned.

" I do not " Prachaya clenched his jaw
" even if you have had bedded every omega that ever crossed your path. "

" Really, my dearest ? "

Prachaya glared " Yes. "

Perawat took half a step and stood gazing in to Pravhaya's eyes " Look in to my eyes and tell me you don't care who I have taken to my bed, omega. "

Pracahya's eyes flashed blue, throwing daggers at the alpha. His lips shut tightly.

" I have only allowed willing non mated betas in my bed - and only when my rut is out of my control. Which happens to be thrice till now. "

" Really ? " Prachaya was surprised. He knew alpha was his age. And that meant he must be facing heat every three months since last fourteen or Fifteen years.

" I knew you are pretty invested in my bedding habits " perawat grinned like mad man.

" I am not. I already apologized for crossing the line alpha." Prachaya scowled.

" Has anyone told you how adorable you are when you are angry and sulking my dearest? "

" I didn't happen to meet anyone with as strong a suicidal instinct as you. So no alpha... none yet ." Prachaya looked at the alpha sternly. Both ended chuckling, laughing without restraints.

" Alpha..." Prachaya said as their laughter calmed down a bit. " Even if I forget my status as an omega for a second. What Sagan can I dare give an alpha- the prince of our nation who already has everything he desires ?"

" He does not my dearest. " Perawat gazed at the omega with a longing that made him avert his eyes "He does not have everything he desires. "

........

" I have a request alpha.."

" Ask..."

" Will you be amenable if I accompany you to your run on any other day ? "

" Why ? Do you have any other engagements today, chief ? "

" No alpha. Its just that ..." Prachaya fiddled with his fingers. And taut like a bow, Perawat's whole existence focussed on omega's answer. " It will affect the hair do that you have so painstakingly created for me,alpha- "

Perawat's shoulder sagged in relief " I do not mind, my dearest. I can always create another for you- "

" No..." Prachaya took a step back. " I want to keep this-" his eyes widened in horror seeing Prince's hurt expression. He instantly bowed from the waist
" I apologize for my behaviour your highness... I didn't mean to insult. I... I promised a run...tonight. "

" Hey..." Perawat gently coaxed the healer to stand up. " I'm not at all insulted healer...I am on cloud nine. " Prachaya smiled. " only a foolish man will be angered over someone who is cherishing his effort so much that he feels the need to protect it from him also. "

" I am suddenly too attached to it " Prachaya looked at his reflection in the pond . His hairs are indeed looking most beautiful they have ever been.

" Do not worry about ruining them while you sleep, dearest... just take out the floral array, rest-no matter how you sleep the hairs won't be out of place.."

" How...? "

Perawat winked " State Secret..."
Prachaya chuckled at Prince's wit. " Is it your way of telling me you won't divulge the secret even if I plead you ?.?"

" This is just my way of ensuring I will be your last thought of the day and first thought on next morning.. "

Prachaya bit his cheek to stop himself from smiling. " Annoying alpha..."

" Beware my dearest...annoying and endearing sound very much similar..."

" Thank you alpha. I promise you a run as soon as i can arrange it"

Alpha smiled at him mischievously " I will hold you to your words, my dearest omega."

Prachaya nodded.

" May I escort you to your quarters omega ? "

" It is my familiar territory alpha- "

" I'm not ready to part just yet. Indulge me?"

Prachaya nodded with his head bowed. And they started heading towards chief's quarters. Silence a comfortable companion between them.

Prachaya didn't once raise his head. He kept looking at his feet, a weird urge to giggle bubbling inside him as his chest squeezed, stealing a look at the alpha through side eyes. He was suddenly finding himself ten years younger... his heart hammered inside his chest all the tales courting he had heard clamoured in his brain..
He had heard that although not allowed to touch an omega intimately through courting period - alphas find a way to shoe their appreciation, their desire.
Like his second in command had been blushing for days as his alpha had kissed his forehead, his hairs while escorting him home.
He had once heard an omega of his tribe telling his friends - his alpha had preserved the rose he had sniffed, in mead glue and sent him a pendant of it with a note - I wish I was this rose.
The tales were countless...

Was today the day he Will get his own tale too? Although he didn't have such a close friend who would demand details - not that he would ever tell anyone - he would die of embarrassment beforehand.

Even if his alpha didn't do anything of such manner - Prachaya has no complaints. The symbolic gesture of care and devotion he has shown today- he can live lifetime through the memory of his alpha's fingers expertly running through his hairs - twisting and turning - with utmost care - managing to do such a neat kill without a comb!
He had not heard an alpha who had braided an omega he was courting. Many had done for an pregnant omega - the carrier of their child - none to just an omega...
And his alpha being a prince, only added to the reverence and thoughtfulness of his action.

" Chief....watch out " Alpha's warning gasp pulled him from his soliloquy.  His ears burned deep red as he saw he had walked in to closed door of his quarters, only thing between his head and door was alpha's protective hand.

"I...urm..." Prachaya scratched back of his head, " I was just thinking of something. "

" I hope it was me you were thinking about my omega. "

" Alphaaaa... " Prachaya whined, " we are here..." he called restless.
This was it. He was at his quarters. Alpha will go back now. This magical night felt so Ling yet so short. He wasn't ready for it to end just now.

" We are here ..." the alpha murmured, staring in to his eyes. Prachaya watched fascinated as the Alpha's pupils dilated, his onyx eyes started rimming with red.

Prachaya gasped as the alpha started unconsciously leaning towards him.

" I just remembered something. " the omega jerked back, gathering his wits. "Just stay here. Don't go anywhere. "

He ran to his room and pulled open the drawer, finding the four leaf clover pendant he had blessed fourteen blue moons ago to give to the prince.
Clutching the pendant to his chest, he ran to the alpha. " Here...I just have this " I only have this to give you as sagun. "
he placed the pendant on his open palm. " It will give you luck and protection . "

" But, You must have made it for..."

" For you..." he blurted.

" huh ? For me ? "

" Good night alpha. " he mumbled.

The alpha didn't respond, he kept staring intensely at him " Is it true, my omega ? You made it for me ? "

The omega nodded " Blessed under blue moon " every year since then .

" Thank you " the alpha clutched it to his chest, his eyes moistened. He held the omega's hand and placed a kiss on each tip of his fingers of right hand.

" Thank you.." he placed his lips at the centre of omega's palm.
" Alphaa.." Omega's breath hitched " What are you doing ? "

" Haven't you heard, sweets are given with sagun. "

" Huh ? "

The alpha gently leaned in and placed his lips on Prachaya's forehead " Good night , my love ."

Eyes wide as saucers, Prachaya stared bewildered at the alpha . The place on his forehead where alpha's lips landed throbbed like it had developed a heart just underneath... he touched the still moist spot with his fingers as if he wanted the proof..

" I..." Unable to say anything, he ran in and shut the door on alpha's  face. Standing witb his back against the door, he clutched his heart that was trying to nest out of his chest.

The alpha's chuckle only made his cheeks burn fiercely .

After some time when there was no movement, Cautiously, he peeked out of window , only to find the alpha staring back at him. So he shut the window too.

" good night my love . Deam of me. "

" Why would I ? " Prachaya mumbled to himself. " Annoying alpha. " his fingers reached to the flowers in his braid and he blushed to himself.
.............

For a long time Prachaya couldn't find sleep. He picked up the mirror and then for Sone reason, blushing profusely he put it down. Then Gathering courage, he again picked it up, and caressed the spot his alpha's lips had touched him. Giggling to himself, he hid his face behind long sleeves of his formal robe.
..........

When he finally slept he had the jade pin under his pillow and all the flowers on his nightstand , their pleasant smell keeping him company.
.........

The alpha held the pendant under moonlight, smiling like an idiot. It was the first token of love he ever got. His first gift.
The alpha kept looking at and kissing the clover pendant.
Clutching it to his heart, he slept deeply and dreamless for first time in a long while.

......

That night they dreamt of two wolves — one white as snow and other golden as molten sunligh, zipping through the forest.  running , chasing, playing, howling — just enjoying each other's company.

.............

A/N : It's a rewritten chapter...a lot different than what you may have read before.