Regis was once again pulled in close, Clarus wrapping his arms warmly around his companion and resting his chin on the top of his head.

"No one needs you to be anything but what you are, Reg," he murmured softly. "They may miss their king, but that isn't a role you need to fill. It isn't a role you should be expected to fill."

He sighed, soothing a hand up and down the smaller man's back and closing his eyes. "We came to this world with nothing, expecting nothing. I never thought I would see you or anyone else from home again. But here you are, and I'm grateful for what I have. Missing years or no."