#;; ~ My Sibling ;; poor DELIRIUM ~ ;;

[weirdly-specific-but-ok]

pt II sandman but i've never watched or read it

It's happening again I'm being kidnapped again there's no hope left for me god I'm so in love with Dream he's such a cutiepie uh right this post okay. I'm uh the Good Omens Mascot and I'm losing my mind here have part two based on whatever I have understood from y'all's replies to my first post.

It's Neil's baby and a lot of amazing artists are involved. One of whom made Dream look like a gooey pile of sad adorableness in volume 1.

Dream is a sad wet lonely repressed cat of a man. No I do not have one type.

There's this dude whom I think is named the Corinthian. He's a dream (but not Dream) and he can see things.

His eyes are mouths and his teeth are apparently Very White and any dental hygienist would orgasm at the sight.

Dream was kept prisoner for a century. Where? I don't fucking know. Why? I don't fucking know. How? Er there was some kind of. Glass (?) case.

There's a sleeping sickness while he's gone coz things got weird.

His raven is killed by someone and maybe he should have forgiven him but he could not.

Something happens at the end of Volume 7 that people need to recover from.

There's someone with glasses who keeps telling Dream stuff and they're Very Important and I have no fucking clue who they are.

There's someone named Freddie and people are feral for him and I don't know who he is.

Dream is just constantly on the verge of tears. Always. Just fucking always. Poor baby.

Sandman more like Sadman amirite.

He thinks everything ever is his fault. Mood.

EVERYONE KEEPS REASSURING ME THERE IS NO CANONICAL INCEST BUT APPARENTLY BOTH DREAM AND DESIRE HAVE SEXUAL TENSION WITH EVERYONE INCLUDING THEIR FAMILY AND EACH OTHER AND THEY ARE SIBLINGS AND AAAAAAAAA.

The family is Endless btw and I don't know what that means but they are.

Dream has a boyfriend (long distance? idk they keep meeting each other every 100 years) named after a cooking stove who calls Dream out for being lonely and Dream doesn't like that and they fight and then they go into the rain etc etc.

Hob is immortal because he does not want to die and he is convinced that humans only die because they uh think there's no other option. It's giving just think positive thoughts.

Dream almost stands him up but then doesn't some bar is moved.

There are keys to Hell and Dream doesn't know what to do with them.

There are tools and they make you weak.

Desire has all the genders.

I am apparently exactly like Delirium.

Dream is a sad wet cat at one point and then he turns into a shadowy being with cute bright eyes.

Dream is fucking pretty in every single fucking century like oh my fuckING GOD I AM SO GAY

Tom Sturridge (?) is Dream's actor and he has chemistry with everyone on screen apparently which leads to incest vibes

There's some kind of fucking Grape Incest scene

Despair is played by Mrs Sandwich

Death is kind and cuddles a dead baby at one point

It's gay but I do not know HOW it is gay but I am assured it is Gay

Er. Feel free to correct me.

[gabessquishytum]

Since his imprisonment over a century ago, cinema has changed. Dream knew the camera would always be the next big thing in storytelling and that the movie would become a new medium that the next generation of storytellers would manipulate and mold.

So Hob proposes movie night. They go in order of the decades, from just before he was captured up to the present day. So far Dream has really liked the 1926 rendition of Phantom of the Opera, Gertie the Dinosaur, and the 1939 rendition of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The film for this movie night is Gene Kelly's Singing in the Rain and then afterwards Wizard of Oz, but he's not alone.

Del is still feeling a bit rejected by her family and decides to pop around her siblings to see what they've got going on. Destiny let her get lost in his maze, Death took her into the deep ocean to say good bye to an ancient whale, Desire took her to a club where she made a guy hitting on her dance forever, and Despair just sat around in her own self misery and Del nearly succumbed to boredom. Dream is the only one left to humor her and brings her with him for movie night.

It goes off about as well as to be expected. She loved the film, particularly enjoying Cosmo's Make Them Laugh and Dorothy's Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Dream also liked the film, though it wasn't one of his favorites. Just something bright and colorful to pass the time. But this gives her an idea. Things always seem to work out when people are singing and she just wishes that everything with her family would resolve in something as simple as a song.

So she makes everyone sing. The first victim is Hob who wakes the next day singing to his appliances and every sentence afterward. Which is weird for him, but he can't stop. He can't get through a lesson without making it into a song. Which is becoming disturbing by lecture number three. He goes home and contacts Dream.

Who is having his own issues. The Dreaming and its denizens can't stop singing either. Matthew has turned into a songbird and the music is starting to chafe his nerves. He goes into the Waking and finds all of humanity has joined in a discordant musical number. Lovers sing about the virtues of romance, street punks are dancing in lines and singing about how they're going to cause trouble. A woman screams herself bloody about her lost dreams and passions. He makes his way to Hob's apartment, where he comes down with a song himself.

It's a heart wrenching screed about the loss of time and opportunity. About how he just wants to love and be loved in return. Red-faced, he disappears.

Hob heard every word he said and opened the door too late, leaving them both to scream themselves hoarse about their feelings. A song that perpetuates until Hob passes out from exhaustion and is ferried onto the Dreaming. There they have a heart to heart in the form of a ballad which culminates in a big, sweeping movie musical style kiss.

After the first few deaths from exhaustion, Death comes to her sister. Even she is not immune and through a large musical number, shows Delirium the extent of the damage she's caused. Del doesn't feel bad, until she hears her brothers and sisters sing. The whole universe is in a chorus of pain and misery as they struggle under the weight of her gift. So she removes the curse and sulks. Her sigil dims and she retreats deep into her realm.

Until she hears her siblings collectively calling for her. She appears in Hob's living room. The popcorn is popped, the room is darkened and she can see everyone sitting on the couch or the floor except for one place on the couch, between Death and Hob. Dream is comfortably sitting next to his new human lover, his head on his shoulder. They invite her in as the movie is just about to start. They're watching Meet Me in St. Louis.

- 🤜 anon

MY HEART. Poor darling Del, she certainly meant for it to be a good thing. But nobody really wants to be singing for more than a short amount of time. I wonder what Dream and Hob sound like while singing? If Dream’s singing is as unique as his laughter, I'm sure it was truly... something. But hey, Del unwittingly performed a minor miracle by bringing the idiots together at last. Who knew that all it would take was a romantic ballad after 600 years of pining?

Del enjoys Meet Me in St Louis a lot! She likes the slightly disfunctional family, particularly the little sister who gets into all kinds of shenanigans. The best part is being with her family, though, especially because they're all on their best behaviour! They even have a good ole sing along to the Trolley Song. Delirium revels in the slight chaos and finally feels properly appreciated by her entire family <3

[thestressedsimmer]

The days wore on and Phillip's condition kept improving by the day. The doctors said they were lucky, his illness had not been as grave as they all were fearing. Within a week, he was back on his feet and took his place at court and at the family dining table once again.

The timing could not be more perfect because Marjory was starting to feel the tell-tale signs of little feet kicking her. While some women hated being pregnant, she couldn't help but adore it - it was the only time she could ensure that she knew where her child was at all times and ensure their safety.

With the quickening, she would have to announce the news of her pregnancy at court. But first, she wanted to announce it to her family. Give them a chance to digest the news before it was a matter of state.

She announced it at breakfast with her entire family gathered around and their two serving girls bustling around in the background, pretending not to eavesdrop.

Phillip did not react how she had hoped. "What? You're pregnant? How could this be? This is a horrible time!"

A frown tugged at Marjory's face, but she decided to give him the benefit on the doubt and say it was just shock. He had been ill and delirious for so long, maybe that delirium was still clinging to him.

"Were you not the one who said that I needed to give birth to a boy to legitimize my rule? Especially as a woman?" She asked, doing her best to keep her voice even.

"Yes, but not now! You have heard just as I that there are Windenbergish troops at the border as we speak! They are just rumors now, but knowing those bastards? It will not be a rumor soon enough."

"Phillip."

"For the Watcher's sake, our own servants have been robbed, Marjory! You, girl!" In the middle of his tirade, he turned to Waltilde. The more shy of the two servants froze in place, looking like a deer in headlights. "Did you inform your queen of this? Perhaps she has just forgotten the state of our world right now!"

"Do not bring the girls into this!" Marjory snapped as the poor girl struggled to speak to respond to him. She waved her out of the room and she gladly ran out, Landelanda on her heels. Those two were as close as close could be and she was glad for it, everybody needed someone to lean on.

Phillip attempted to speak, but one raised hand from his queen silenced him. For such a soft and kind woman, she could hold her own in arguments. It is why her relationship with her husband worked. She did not let him push her around.

"I do not know if you are aware, Phillip, but I did not get pregnant on my own. You were more than happy to risk it when you were on top of me in my chambers." She glanced down at their daughter, sitting beside them. Probably should watch her language around young ears. "I will hear no more of this and risk my child's health by being upset by your petulant whining."

With those words, the consort stood (with the tell-tale shriek of a chair skidding across the floor) and stormed out of the room. He mumbled something about having work to do as he did so, but she knew that was just an excuse to get away from her.

Swallowing down tears from her husband's poor reaction, she cleared her throat and turned to her daughter. Trying to keep her voice cheerful. "Well, Adela. How do you feel about the news?"

"Don't want it!" Came the almost cheerful reply from the princess.

This reaction was less unexpected. She had been an only child for her entire life and while she enjoyed being an older cousin, she also enjoyed leaving those babies behind when their visits conclude.

Marjory's hope was that she would eventually warm up to having a sibling. Especially when she saw the little one and realized that they could be a playmate for her.

There was only one person left: Elizabeth, her adopted mother.

Her reaction to the pregnancy was much better. She was all smiled when she realized that Marjory was carrying another grandchild - it did her heart good to see Robert's legacy continuing on through her. Besides, she thinks she is an amazing mother.

The only problem was that the queen was speaking so fast, probably because of the unpleasant reactions of her husband and daughter, that she didn't get a chance to say a single word.

"I was wondering if you would... maybe, perhaps, if you wanted to, join me in my confinement? Since you have returned, I have had to focus on queenly duties but this will be an opportunity for us to just be together and... and... and I think it would be nice to have you there, you know?"

Elizabeth waited patiently for her daughter to take a breath.

"Of course, darling. I wouldn't miss it for the world."

That was a relief to Marjory. She went on to tend to her daily duties, glad to know that she would have her mother's support no matter what. Her husband and daughter would come around; they'd have to. Like it or not, there would be a new prince or princess arriving soon.

[tickldpnk8]

Headcanon ask game, starting with the harmless stuff (any character):

🍫

Ooo! Headcanons about food: I’ll answer for the Endless siblings.

I kind of answered this one about Morpheus (which prompted me to post the headcanon asks since it was fun to think about). Basically, I think Dream can and does eat in any and all realms. But that he might prefer to eat in the Dreaming the most, and only does it when he Wants to. I like the headcanon that he can taste the intent/story within a food (Ie: made with love or history).

But to get a bit silly with it…

Destiny

Likely only eats when he reads that he should. The workaholic who forgets to eat unless reminded it’s dinner time. In an entire buffet line of food he can choose from, he’ll pick only vegetables and other “healthy” food despite an abundance of cheese dips and other party food he likes being right there.

Death

Loves grabbing a pint on her day off, but isn’t so pretentious as to turn her nose up at some piss poor American beer. Probably loves a good ole Minnesotan Hot Dish. (What will these humans think of next, huh?) Favors what she can scrounge up at her favorite farmer’s market.

Dream

Loves hanging out with Death at the bar on her day off. But if he is going to deign to dine with or around humans, then he’s probably going to lean in hard as a craft beer snob. Citra hops and extra hoppy, hazy IPAs are soooo overdone. He’s into those beer styles you’ve never heard of like a Rauchbier or a grodziskie. The Dreaming’s Library equivalent for beers almost lost to time. And really fanciful desserts that defy gravity. All for the stories they both tell. (He’d probably love my marathon LotR EE party where we eat like a hobbit throughout the day with meals timed to the movies, too.)

Destruction

Deconstructed desserts he found on Pinterest. But when trying to artfully plate the dish, it might be a bit of a Pinterest fail. It all tastes good and all ends up in the same place anyways he figures.

Desire

Incredibly rich and/or greasy food. So haute French cuisine with lots of butter…or a dirty Döner after a night out at the club.

Despair

Feels right at home in Oliver Twists’ orphanage. Nothing like a cold, thin gruel on a dreary day.

Delirium

Felt right at home with the cake trend of surprise sprinkles cascading out of their centers. Loved the unicorn drink craze. Might go for a turducken when craving something savory.

[honeybeezgobzzzzz]

𓅨 Your Fate is Sealed With Mine: Chapter Forty-Two

Your Fate is Sealed With Mine: Y/N Burgess is the granddaughter of Alex and Paul, and after having spent so many summers at their manor and always wondering why she was forbidden from entering the basement, she descends the steps into the world of the Order. She broke out the being that had been trapped in that glass cage, but what does he want with her now that he is free?

Warnings: Reader Puts Desire in Their Place, Threats of Destruction, Morpheus Simps for His Wifey (And is Totally Obvious).

To Note: Morpheus/Dream x Female!GranddaughterReader, based on Netflix’s ‘The Sandman’, Reader now has long-ish hair for plot reasons (Just so Morpheus can tug on it later).

Word Count: ~3.8k

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Striding through the palace lit by early afternoon, Morpheus made his way to the depths where very little light shone. The room he entered was near bare save for seven gold frames holding up tokens of the seven Endless. Morpheus went directly to the black heart and carefully removed it, cradling it within his hands. His eyes gazed stormily at the heart.

“Desire, I stand in my gallery and I hold your sigil. Talk to me.” The black heart started beating and glowed with red embers. Then Desire’s face appeared with a drawn out canary smile.

“Why sweet Dream. This is a surprise.” Desire purred out. “Almost an event, I might say.”

“Good, I’m coming through,” Morpheus spoke, not giving his sibling a chance to recinde his demand.

“You are? But of course, you know you’re always welcome in my chambers.” Desire drew out. Morpheus teleported himself to the red steps leading up to Desire’s throne. He started prowling forwards, his gaze indifferent. Desire rolled on their lounge as Morpheus approached. “Lovely to see you. Can I get you anything you desire?”

Morpheus’s left eye just barely twitched as he prowled forwards.

“What I desire, awaits me within my realm,” Morpheus answered lowly, his eyes boring into Desire’s golden ones. “I desire nothing else from you save some answers.”

“Ooh,” Desire sounded out, rolling onto their stomach and crossing their feet. “Is this a test?”

“Unity Kincaid should’ve been the vortex of this era.” Desire’s tail twitched. “But someone took advantage of my imprisonment and fathered a child with her, knowing full well that it would become the vortex, and I would be forced to kill it.”

Desire’s grin widened and they chuckled.

“Was I really that obvious?”

“No,” Morpheus answered, his lip twitching in a sneer. “You covered your tracks remarkably well.”

“Well, that’s high praise coming from you.” Desire commented, shifting into a sideways sitting position. Morpheus looked down into the taunting face of his sibling.

“What did you intend? That I shall spill family blood? With all that would entail?” Desire let out another chuckle, clearly pleased with themself and their game.

“This time it almost worked.” Morpheus’s lips upturned at the side and ever so slightly shook his head.

“My sibling. We of the Endless are the servants of the living, not their masters. We exist onlybecause they know deep in their hearts that we exist.” Morpheus said as he slowly moved behind Desire. “We do not manipulate them. If anything, they manipulate us.” Morpheus came to stand directly behind Desire. “And you and Despair, and ever poor Delirium would do well to remember that.” Morpheus grabbed Desire’s hair and yanked their head back, causing them to let out a hiss. He looked directly into golden eyes with a deadly gaze. “Mess with me or mine again and I shall forget you are family. Do you believe that going after my bonded will give you the upper hand? That she will ever design to conspire with you?”

“She certainly didn’t seem to have the mind to resist me,” Desire taunted further, their lips widening. Morpheus’s eyes started to glow silver but before he could take action for Desire’s obvious goading they both heard heels clicking on smooth red floor. Both Endless looked to who was approaching. Morpheus was automatically releasing Desire’s hair, wanting to step forwards to shield his beloved queen from the hungry eyes of his sibling, but he stopped short, unsure if it was from seeing you dressed so elegantly or from the look in your eyes. Both Endless ended up being transfixed with you dressed head to toe in carmine, the gossamer fabric fluttering behind you as you all but sauntered your way up to the pair.

Morpheus couldn’t help but drink in what you had dressed yourself in, the red dress clung to your figure just right and the numerous amount of rubies that crusted the bodice in a twisting vine shape sparkled, enhanced by the shining ruby that hung from a golden chain at your throat. The fluttering trails of fabric that formed the sleeves flowed behind you like wings, drawing the eye everywhere and nowhere at the same time. If one wasn’t enchanted by the dress and the way you moved, their eyes were drawn to the rubies crowning hair pulled up into an elegant bun. But Morpheus was captivated by softly glowing silver eyes that exuded confidence. He brushed against the bond and found that your wall was firmly in place. You were livid, but hid it well behind pressed lips and expressionless eyes.

“Well, well, well,” Desire drawled out, their eyes glimmering as they gave you a more than adequate once over. “I wasn’t expected to see you your majesty, and might I say that you look absolutely divine?” Pink lips twitched as you came to a stop in front of them.

“Desire,” As soon as his siblings name left his wife’s lips, Morpheus knew that you had come for a reason, and that reason was not a good one. You had come for blood. Desire lazily stretched out on their lounge.

“What do I owe this absolute pleasure?” They purred, their canary smile widening once more as their golden eyes continued to flicker across your body. Another twitch of pinks lips and you stepped right up to the Endless, lifting gold tipped fingers to cradle their face. You brushed your metal tipped fingertips across silken unblemished skin as you stared down into golden eyes.

“I’ve simply come to talk,” You spoke gently, tracing Desire’s cheek bone with your clawed thumb. Desire’s gaze turned sultry and they lifted their chin.

“Oh? And what does the queen of the Dreaming with to talk about with little old me. What is it you desire?” Morpheus had to physically hold himself back from yanking you out of Desire’s reach and sight. Your pleasant and soft smile disappeared in an instant. Your grasp upon their face tightened to where the points of your metal tipped fingers dug into Desire’s perfect skin.

“Don’t ever try to manipulate me again,” You spoke, your voice now icily cold and devoid of emotion. “Because you know what I’ve recently learned, my dear Desire?” Desire, who was now frozen beneath your grasp, blinked and remained silent. “My husband and king is bound to the rules of the Endless, I am not.” You spoke, then pressed your thumb down until skin broke and crimson leaked down Desire’s cheek. “Do not mess with me or what is mine, because next time? I won’t just draw blood,” Lowering your face, you carved a line of crimson into perfect skin and stared into glittering eyes. “I will end you.”

There was a few tense seconds before Desire finally spoke up.

“The kitten’s finally learned how to use her claws, how fun,” Desire said, airing back on sultry to hide the snippet of fear you had placed within them. Your lips twitched once more, amusement dancing among murderous darkness.

“Perhaps, my darling, but my bite is deadly… watch yourself, Desire. I’m not a weakness, but a very dangerous tool. I’d hate to see this pretty face destroyed.” With that you withdrew and turned your back on the Endless, striding back the way you came as Desire lifted a hand to their cut and bleeding cheek. Both Endless continued to stare until you disappeared in a vortex of sand, then Desire turned to their older sibling.

“Oh I envy you, brother.” This was perhaps the first honest thing Desire had spoken to their brother in eons. Morpheus turned a thunder gaze upon his sibling, daring him to smear that which he held so dear. Desire smirked. “Having a queen like that? However are you going to control her?” Morpheus’s face darkened.

“She is not to be controlled, Desire.” Morpheus growled, taking a step into Desire’s space and giving them a look that withered anyone subjected to it. “And should you even think to mess or play with her again, I will let her destroy you… and enjoying watching her do so.” With that Morpheus turned around and strode away from Desire, mood less foul than he expected. Maybe it was seeing you stand up to Desire and put them in their place, or perhaps it was simply that you looked beyond exquisite and past ethereal. Morpheus transported himself back to his palace in the Dreaming, once there he could see you speaking with Lucienne and Matthew, before departing for the exit with Matthew fluttering to your shoulder. He called out to you. “Y/N!”

You paused in step and looked back at him with a raised eyebrow.

“Don’t bloody tell me that-that was a bad idea Morpheus because it was a long time coming after what they did and someone had to put Desire in their place.” You spoke as Matthew fluttered his wings. Morpheus went to open his mouth but you held up a hand. “Not another word, I can feel what you are going to say.” Morpheus snapped his jaw shut and stewed in place as you continued on your way. His eyes lingered on your receding body and it’s heavenly curves… “and I can feel you staring at my arse!”

While Matthew started cackling from your shoulder, Lucienne pushed her glasses up her nose and stared at the floor, finding it exceedingly interesting at the moment. Morpheus merely fumed. You were, naturally, correct.

“I’d really rather not.” You spoke nervously, remembering what happened last time you had been near the black ocean. You may not have drowned but the dangerous waters had given you a fear that clung to your nerves. Morpheus’s eyebrow rose.

“No? Surely you are interested, I can feel your curiosity,” Morpheus countered. Lifting your eyes from the book you had been reading, you eyed him over the inscribed pages. You knew what he was doing and it was working… to a point.

“I believe you know what happened last time I went near those waters,” You reminded him, looking back to the words you had been reading. A few seconds went by and the book was gently tugged from your grasp. Biting your lip, you lifted your eyes to meet Morpheus’ gentle ones.

“And you believe that I will allow a repeat of events?” Your stubborn refusal softened as did the rigidity in your shoulders. You drooped where you sat.

“Of course not, I just—“ You pursed your lips and tried not to let the flashes of memories get to you. “I don’t want to be reminded of my past. It’s there for a reason.” Morpheus gazed down at you and lifted a hand to brush his fingers across your chin.

“You’re making excuses, my dream,” He gently called you out. You pressed your lips tighter together and aired out a sigh of guilt.

“It’s not that I don’t wish to go, I just…” Your last attempt at worming your way out of seeing Morpheus’ work space was failing spectacularly. You knew it, but more importantly, he knew it. Wilting where you sat, you were about to sink in your seat and hopefully disappear beneath table, when Morpheus offered his hand.

“Will your mind be eased if I should hold your hand and promise to not let go?” Your eyes widened and a flush crawled up your neck.

“I’m not a child, Morpheus,” His eyebrow cocked for a moment.

“Did I say you were?” He had you there. You grudgingly put your hand in his offered one and let him pull you to your feet. Standing close to Morpheus, you stared up into his eyes as sand swirled around your bodies and the little library in the queen’s wing of the palace disappeared. Dark sand shifted underfoot and as wind ruffled your pulled back hair, you stared at the dark waters lapping at the shoreline not that far away. While it was a more than adequate distance from you, you still tensed where you stood and gripped Morpheus’ hand tighter. “Not as frightening is it?” You snorted and eyed the deceptive waters.

“It is mocking me, I can feel it,” You muttered beneath your breath, making sure to keep an eye on the ocean as you turned your body towards the four shapes. Trying to set your mind into a lighter frame, you let your eyes flutter over the shapes. There was a humanoid shape of bone, the torso of a body, a galaxy shifting and swirling in the half built shape of a human, and then a jet black statue missing a face. “Future Dreams and Nightmares?” You questioned, looking up at Morpheus. He inclined his head.

“You were curious as to how they come to be, were you not?” Morpheus questioned, leading you closer to the creations in progress. “This is where I sculpt them.”

“You make them purely with your mind?” You tilted your head to the side and marbled at the flowing creativity that moved and shifted right in front of you. “I’d have thought that after living for eons, one would get stagnant with their ideas.” You lifted your free hand and brushed your fingers over the shifting bronze, feeling the hum of magic that emanated from within the shifting substance.

“Who says I haven’t?” He responded. “You and Lucienne have made a point to remind me that I cannot stay stagnant in my ways.” You held back a teasing quip for the mere fact that he was openly admitting he wasn’t perfect. “Would you like to try your hand?” Your face snapped to his as your eyes widened.

“Would I like to try what?” You repeated. “Morpheus, my love,” His eyebrow went back up and his lips twitched in amusement. “When did you think such a thought would be a good idea? I barely know how to fill my own bath.”

“You seem to get along quite well, my dream, try your hand.” Morpheus goaded, the challenge clear in his voice and eyes. He knew how to push your buttons just as well. Try your hand you would, and since he was inclined to goad you, you planned on knocking his knickers off. Pause that thought, you weren’t sure he even wore knickers to be blown off… your mind was soon getting distracted by mental pictures of a naked Morpheus. Cue another eyebrow raise from the being himself. You silently cursed yourself and got to work. Separating your hands, you walked a few paces away and stared at a spot in the sand, concentrating creating life where it was desolate. The sand started shifting and a sprout burst from the onyx grains. That little tiny sprout continued to grow and grow until a massive oak shaded the area. Stepping closer to the thick trunk, you crouched down and watched as the harden trunk moved and shifted. Seconds later a ball of bark and leaves came tumbling out. You reached froward and stopped the unfolding creature from flat out sprawling in the sand.

Bright forest green eyes opened and stared up at you, blinking in curiosity. Then little fingers uncurled and lifted to touch your face. Their fingers were soft and warm against your cheek, just like how Hemponia and Lantana’s were, but this dryad held a childlike innocence that felt refreshing and new. This was a child. Smiling at the dryad, you watched as she stood up on her wobbly legs, little green leafs emerging from tinted skin.

“Are you to hide your creation from me, my dream?” Morpheus called from behind you. “Because this magnificent oak is surely not your desired end result.” Your lips twitched as the little dryad lifted her arms towards you. Carefully gathering her against your chest, you rose to your feet and watched as the little branches going out her arms bloomed with little delicate flowers. Green eyes looking around curiously, you let out a small chuckle before turning around to face Morpheus. Both of his eyebrows rose.

“You’ve created many beautiful things, Morpheus, but what the realm seems to lack,” You spoke to him before looking at the dryad who was making flowers bloom from her fingertips. “Is youth.”

“You mean to say children,” Morpheus quietly commented while he walked over to where you stood. His gaze at what you had created was surprisingly gentle.

“I suppose,” You responded, reaching up move a clump of green hair that was caught in a blooming branch. “Given all the dryads that inhabit the terraria, I thought that they might like having a younger one amongst them to fawn over.” As you were speaking, you failed pick up on the look Morpheus was giving you. You were captivating every second of the day, but holding a child wrenched at his heart and left him longing.

“My lord,” Your both turned to see Lucienne striding up to you. “My lady,” She said in greeting with a curt nod your way. “Sorry to disturb you when you're working, but…”

“Is something wrong?” Morpheus asked, concern instantly plastered across his face.

“No, it's something lovely, actually.” Lucienne chuckled and adjusted her glasses. “A new book appeared in the library this morning written by Rose Walker.” Your eyebrow rose and you looked back to Morpheus as the dryad reached up and placed a hand on your chin. You felt a ripple of magic and heard more vines and flowers shifting. Morpheus replied to Lucienne in question.

“And how is it?” Lucienne cleared her throat nervously.

“You may take issue with the depiction of the king in the story, but…” She paused, then cocked her head with a twitch of her eyebrow. “I loved it.”

“Somehow I find that to be not surprising, you must tell me the title because I should like to read it.” You spoke with a small laugh. “Any book written by the hand of a Walker is sure to be quite a story.”

“Indeed,” Lucienne replied with a smile you shared. Morpheus cleared his throat, most likely not liking the mischievous emotions you were giving off. Certainly not if Lucienne was getting in on the action.

“She is a daughter of the Endless with quite a story to tell.” He commented, giving both Lucienne and you a look. You shared a further smile before Lucienne adjusted her glasses and peered at the dryad in your arms.

“And who is this, my lady?” Lucienne asked, her eyes moving to something above your head. Your own eyes lifted and you could just barely see little vines and flowers. They were wearing throughout your hair.

“This, Lucienne,” You spoke proudly, looking down at the dryad who had a beaming smile. “Is my very first creation. She doesn’t have a name yet, I thought I would leave that up to the dryads of the terraria.”

“Indeed, I think they will love their new edition.” She said before looking behind you. “Are you making new Nightmares to replace Gault and the Corinthian?” Morpheus shook his head slightly and glanced back at the creations in progress.

“The world does not need a new Corinthian quite yet.” Morpheus mused in a melancholic and regretful tone. Then he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a little skull that had teeth in its eye sockets. He held it out to the librarian. “In fact... will you keep this somewhere safe for me? I am finishing a Dream.”

Lucienne accepted the skull with a nod. 

“I’ll leave you to it, then.” She turned to leave and Morpheus called out to her once more.

“Lucienne.” The librarian turned back around, her eyebrows raised. A smile appeared on Morpheus’s lips. “Do you not wish to say hello?”

Hello? You were only confused for a few moments before one of the shifting creations behind you surged in power and the ever shifting galaxy and stars morphed into Gault. She stepped forwards, looking at her arms and hands. Behind her fluttered great wings that sparkled and glowed blue and pink.

“You look gorgeous, Gault.” Lucienne all but gasped. Gault stepped forwards, flapping her wings and turning in a circle.

“Thank you, Lucienne.” Gault  responded happily, she then turned to Morpheus. “May I ask what made you change your mind about me, sir?”

“I had no right returning here after over a century expecting everything to be just as I left it.” Morpheus answered honestly, his eyes went to the librarian. “Lucienne tried to tell me that. So did you. But now I'm listening.” Oh really? You gave him a mental nudge. He cleared his throat. “Or trying to. New Dreams. New Nightmares. A new age.”

“Thank you, sir.” Gault said, flapping her wings to prepare to leave.

“Gault?” You questioned. The Nightmare turned Dream looked to you. “I believe a young boy might appreciate a visit from a friend in his next dream. Will you please tell young Jed that I said hello?” Gault gave you a wide smile and nodded before flapping her wings once more and took off. You were thankful that Morpheus didn’t say anything because you would have smacked him if he had.

“I heard that,” The being in question, spoke. You aired out a soft snort and looked at him with raised eyebrows.

“Whatever do you mean, my love?” You questioned airily, daring to call him out in front of Lucienne. His head tilted and his lips twitched.

Threatening me again, my dream? Surely you tire of such devotion.

Tire of threatening people? I should think not, you know I prefer a battle of wits. Unfortunately, most people come unarmed and I have to resort to backup plans.”

“Shall I excuse myself?” Lucienne asked, intercepting your mental conversation (or as she would put it, a flirting session), probably picking up on the sexual tension that ever so easily blossomed between you now. You and Morpheus looked back at the librarian.

“I am sure Morpheus shall be a while but I am afraid the little one has worn herself out playing with my hair.” You responded, giving the now sleeping dryad a gentle pat on the back.

“Would you mind taking care of things while I work?” Morpheus broached. Lucienne gave him a smile and nodded.

“With pleasure, sir.” She returned. Lucienne turned to you. “Shall we return, my lady?”

“I believe we shall,” You responded before taking a few short steps to Morpheus. “Don’t have too much fun without me,” You spoke, stretching up and pressing a kiss to his cheek. Morpheus twisted his head so your lips were close. Blinking at him, you sensed what he was about to respond and narrowed your eyes. “Don’t even think about it.” You huffed at him shortly. Then you withdrew and walked over to Lucienne. As you walked away from Morpheus’s work space, his voice echoed in your head.

Not as frightening as you first believed?

Oh, hush you.

He wasn’t smug that he had proved your fears wrong, but rather happy.

Date Published: 1/2/23

Last Edit: 8/23/23

Previous | Masterlist | Next

[fleurelinathehybrid]

💛[Chapter EPILOGUE: A birthday, an opportunity and a beginning]💛

The days sometimes pass slowly in his kingdom, and even the weeks, the months and the year. Well, that was something Desire was used to, being an Endless.

After that moment where, after Night's emotional abuse, all I felt was fear, doubt, confusion and sadness; his brothers chose to wake him from his "emergency sleep" and be present to check on them. Dawn, on the other hand, had to stay in her father Hob's arms to take her snack and nap, but not before calming the poor immortal from a near heart attack caused by the shock of the events.

As soon as they woke up, the first to hug them was their twin Despair, who couldn't stop crying for forgiveness for not even suspecting that something was wrong with them. Then it was Delirium, who despite being the only one of the siblings who did not complain to them, witnessed all the commotion and thanked him for ensuring that her gift did not torment them anymore. Death, between the anger against Night and the amazement of knowing that her chaotic sibling wanted to sacrifice themself for their little niece despite the situation, only chose to join their foreheads and tell them that she regrets having been cold when she threatened them about the pregnancy; they responded with "I deserved it, it's not your fault." Destiny, without opening the book for even a second during the time they were observing and caring for Desire, encouraged him to lie down again and kiss their forehead while he wiped their wet cheeks from having cried so much; Desire had definitely been stupidly brave not to deserve that rest. Dream, finally, chooses to thank them for everything and tell them that they would soon find the right time to heal those old scars.

The last thing they saw before falling asleep was their brother Dream telling them "sweet dreams, my little sibling."

It was so liberating that they ignored a tear falling down their cheek.

[💛💛💛]

Three sisters look at a recently rescued sleeping Endless in their huge mirror, while smiling at each other. Afterwards, the mirror changed its image in the reflection, now showing a tender and brave baby resting peacefully in her golden crib, being watched by her human father who would later receive his Endless partner and they would proceed to see her sleeping together.

When they verified that everything was in order, their smiles turned into annoyance and anger when they proceeded to make one of their appearances when someone summoned them.

It was no surprise for them to discover that it was the same Night of the Endless, she only wants answers and is not grateful. It is an entity too proudly narcissistic to be grateful for receiving help or answers.

What was a surprise was seeing her very upset, as soon as they appeared in her throne room.

—Well, it seems that you know why I summoned them. —Endless speaks with her cordial and poisonous air, making the sisters stiffen.

—You don't need to tell us, Nyx. We witnessed it all, how heartless you are. —the Elder Sister spoke, without looking away or even blinking.

—Eons, in which you have spent bothering your children, and you are still doing it. —Sister Mother, very tired, comments. That makes Night roll her eyes in boredom. —What you did to the Prodigal was not enough for you, now you do it to your son Desire. When is this going to stop, Nyx?

—And now you come to torment your granddaughter? A girl who has nothing to do with this? —Sister Maiden tells him worried. —Nyx, if we do not take revenge against you, it is not because of you, it is because of your husband Cronus. He can't fight against you because you're still married to him, but believe me when we tell you that he absolutely disagrees when you dare to hurt your children.

— Oh, please! —she exclaimed furiously when her husband's name was mentioned, causing the walls of her palace to darken like the night itself— Cronus doesn't even care, nor does his children or me.

That pissed off the three sisters.

—You're wrong Nyx, you don't want to admit that you unfairly punished Cronus by preventing him from visiting his children. —The Elder Sister speaks again, more annoyed than usual.

—He already knows all the crimes you committed against them, obviously he will find out what you were trying to do with your granddaughter. —that was Sister Mother, who still maintained a serious voice.

—That little girl, Nyx, doesn't even know you and they already know she has a potential enemy in her life. Don't think that we will allow you to touch a hair, or even think of wanting to torment him, because you will transform your son into the worst of himself. —The Maiden's cold voice perplexes Night, leaving her mouth ajar.

—I don't understand, why do you care? —Night starts to get angry—Why the hell should she be important?!

—Because she already has her destiny marked; and if you, Nyx, dare to harm her —the Oldest points her finger accusingly— you will bring about a fatal fate for humanity.

Night wants to protest, but is immediately interrupted by the threat of the Fates.

— YOU ARE WARNED!!

The three exclaimed before disappearing from the palace of the Matriarch of the Endless, leaving her with a growing hatred inside her.

[💛💛💛]

A few days later...

A birthday celebration was taking place in the Dreaming, with a guest list that seemed straight out of a story: Dream, Hob, Lucienne, Matthew, Abel, Cain, Mervyn and Gault. Of course, the Endless could not be missing, always so enigmatic: Destiny, Death, Despair and Delirium.

As for Destruction, its absence was already a tradition; If he did not wish to be found, there was no power to change his mind.

As far as Desire was concerned, that was a completely different chapter. Dream had extended the invitation to everyone, but confirmation from that brother never came. And since that incident from which they were rescued, when Dawn asked him to make the call, they had not exchanged a word again. So, it was up to them to decide whether to attend.

The celebration was taking place in one of the meadows of Fiddler's Green, where a wicker table stood, adorned with a festive tablecloth. The cake, the star of the table, looked as colorful and cheerful as one of ours, surrounded by more party utensils and gifts that awaited the celebration.

The gathering was abuzz with conversation and laughter as everyone tried to cheer up little Dawn. However, she seemed to be awaiting the arrival of someone special. Delirium tried in every way to get a smile from her to ward off the sadness of her birthday, but her efforts seemed in vain.

That was the signal for Sueño to start the celebration; he wouldn't let the absence of one person overshadow his daughter's special day. In one agile movement, he placed the cake in front of her and lit the candle, illuminating Dawn's face with a light of hope and joy.

The melody of "Happy Birthday" echoed through a joyful chorus of those present, lifting the girl's spirit. As the song concluded, Dawn could not contain her joy as she watched Lucienne offering little Dawn a piece of cake, topped with a flaming candle.

—Make a wish, dear, —Dream whispered, sliding her hand over the girl's cheek. —Remember, if you share it out loud, it will not be fulfilled.

The girl nodded and, with a spontaneous gesture, blew out the candle with a softness and grace that provoked a wave of applause and congratulations.

However, the applause quickly faded when he noticed the presence of a surprise guest, invisible to everyone except the older brother, who was holding a voluminous book in his hands.

—Will it be too late to congratulate the birthday girl on her special day? —Desire inquired nervously, in front of his siblings, the kingdom's loyal subjects, Hob and his niece, all dressed in elegant clothes, a rarity given their eccentric nature. It was an indication that they were still dealing with their emotional crises, after having been rescued from that gloomy forest by Dawn's call.

Watching that man who was tirelessly trying to get to her party, Dawn could not contain her excitement and burst into screams of joy and happiness. That spontaneous reaction was the clear indication for Dream that his sibling were more than welcome at her birthday celebration; and that, definitely, he did not have the courage to expel them from his territory.

After a long and tense silence, they make the decision to include it in the festival. Desire, visibly moved by the situation, joins the celebration trying to hide their tears of joy, while carefully placing the gift for their niece next to the other presents.

Seeing her family reunited, Dawn felt immensely happy for her first birthday party in the Dreaming.

It was, without a doubt, a dream come true.

💛[THE END]💛

This is how this first fanfic of a saga ends that I hope to create. I am open to any suggestions or requests about my story. I'm also open to questions about my fanfic and about Dawn, which you are free to ask me. Thank you all for reading.

[dove-tears]

huagh

had the random urge to add onto my previous isaac hcs, prev.

-Steven acts almost as Isaac's "tulpa" in a way(?), and would occasionally communicate with him through thoughts, multiple Stevens from multiple timelines may speak different opinions and thoughts to him. Even if his presence was out of nowhere Isaac wouldn't question him or find his company off-putting as he always felt familiarity and connection with him (gee I sure do wonder why!) and would just treat him as another one of his imaginary friends.

-Isaac finds comfort in darkness and is the type to prefer being in a dark, albeit dimly lit room. Of course it depends on the environment, as in some cases it scares him to death and can even be a trauma trigger for him, but he also hates brightness as it's sensitive on his vision and is headache prone.

-If he wasn't in a hardcore christian household, he'd definitely be into novels like Warrior Cats or Percy Jackson. He'd also probably be into Stephen King novels as well.

-Isaac has a hyperfixation of just thoroughly reading and rereading through anything that has words, whether that be through books, pamphlets, or even just the nutritional labels on a cereal box, to the point where he becomes completely engrossed in it and can shut out everything else around him.

-Isaac's dream is to be a doctor when he grows up, specifically in the practice of medicine, and likes reading through/fixating on anything medical related. Which is an explanation for items in the game such as PhD and why he's so knowledgeable in different diseases, illnesses, syndromes and other various medical terms.

-Isaac is/was growth hormone deficient, and was put on HGH therapy at one point in his life. (Which is also why he has such a small stature for his age)

-A reasoning for why drug use seems to be so prominent in game is because Isaac KNOWS what drug use feels like. He was prescribed Percocets/painkillers when on HGH therapy, he's curiously popped his mother's pills once when he wasn't supervised, he knows what being addicted or what a bad trip is because he's experienced it all before, it all fucked him up BAD and played a major role in Isaac's delirium and overall mental decline/seemingly fucked up imagination for his age. (Top it off with the abuse and indoctrination his mother put on him and you can see why his suicidal ideation got as bad as it did)

-Isaac's favorite food is sausage, especially in slices. His favorite dessert is anything with chocolate in it, but he can't have it often due to IBS. (I saw oreo sprinkled popcorn at the store once and he'd probably unironically love that kinda stuff HDJKDHGKFH)

-Like Edmund irl, Isaac loves card games, and will pretty much consume anything card game related. (don't underestimate this 5 year old he is a M:TG expert and he can and will kick ur ass)

-Isaac gets frequent nosebleeds due to poor living conditions, which explains that one AB+ trailer, and why there's blood everywhere on the post-it notes in-game.

-Isaac yearns to have a sibling, and it's why so many of his imaginary friends are fetuses/babies or referred to as brothers and sisters.

-Guppy had been around before Isaac was born and had been bonded to him since the day he was. For the duration Guppy was alive they were practically destined to be the bestest of friends.

-The D6 is Isaac's comfort object.

-Besides emotionally, Isaac is a pretty sensitive individual overall, he gets easily irritated around bright lights, loud noises, certain smells and touches, etc. It's a major reason for wanting to keep to himself most of the time. Of course that just made him more of a target to get picked on unfortunately.

[lightdancer1]

I haven't gone into it as much yet:

But one bit that I actually like to explore is that as unpleasant a tragedy as it is, the existence of Daniel Dream ends up actually being somewhat healthier at least for him and the Endless that he's close to. I elect to disregard any canon not written by Neil himself featuring Daniel, and with Daniel Dream and Death it stems from a simple thing that the two have in common that she did not with Morpheus, while replacing what he and she both had in common (namely a deep blend of depression and discontent with life buried in two equally toxic ways behind a chasm of poor communication).

Daniel Dream does not put Death on the pedestal that Morpheus did, so they have actual communication, not assumptions in the 'make an ass out of u and me' aspect, and the two are both the most human and the most humanized of the Endless. And ironically because of this Daniel more than any other can see through the various masks Death makes, creating an irony for a while where some of the dynamics invert.

Daniel becomes kind of a return of the earlier days of Dream as an artisan-king content to create and less obsessed with the realities of rule, Death seeks to hide her feelings and her problems and it doesn't work and she's not accustomed to dealing with that or someone who both cares and due to that greater humanity refuses to leave her alone to (not) deal with things the way Morpheus did.

The flip side is that Daniel Dream ends up with ultimately a harsher relationship with Desire when he figures out Desire's role in the death of his previous aspect, amplified by the reality that Desire finally really did kill him and thus it becomes a mirror of Death and Despair in that the two interact at times in family meetings and seldom since, with Desire getting what they wanted in monkey's paw fashion. They won the prank war, essentially, and Dream acknowledges that.....and they have even less time with their sibling than they did before and no-one to blame but themself.

It also hinges, too, on the ideas that Dream was changing anyway with or without the fishbowl, and that a Dream who changes without dying incorporates some of the best aspects of Daniel Dream while retaining the aesthetics of Morpheus. *But* if he remains Morpheus he also retains the flaw that his older sister is this perfect ideal being on a pedestal when the real Death is never anything close to this, and where her own problems remain locked behind barriers he never sees nor acts upon.

The Death and Dream sibling relationship in its Morpheus and Death incarnation is anything but healthy, and in the beginning as I write it, at least, their dynamics switched and it ultimately boils down to Death being that brittle and aloof figure and Dream (and Destruction, who was always there at work but never really as a brother and it takes the two far too long to realize that and too late) is the only one who actively tries to reach out to her.

Delirium/Delight does, too, but in the end Death in her sorrow and then her aloofness is too withdrawn and she very much is still parentified with Delirium which creates most of their friction.

Pretty much all of my Sandman stories hinge around Death as the protagonist (though I like to do a trick where key moments in one POV are seen in the eyes of others because the story will loop back around to that POV and that moment and in that particular instance it gives away too much to have it there). The Endless as siblings and their blend of eldritch entities and people are all dysfunctional and the dysfunction all works vastly differently.

Death is not Dream, and her sibling relationships are not those of Dream. Nor is her relationship to the idea of being an Endless the same, as I've gone into before. She can and does give up her power for 24 hours and truly dies, and is the Endless accordingly who has truly died most. Dream copes with his problems in dramatic and flamboyant ways, Death digs in in denial and in letting the pressure cooker draw nearer to the explosion and then finally erupting when it never really had to do that in the first place.

The differences in that (and the similarities) inform much of how she interacts with Morpheus and Delirium, the two of her siblings she spends the most time with, and everything with her and Destruction.

[historias-multorum]

(For Katakuri's Rebel AU) Burns from Oven, the odd slice from Smoothie's water blades... Candy arrows, one embedded itself deeply into his collarbone. His home, a minute island on the absolute outskirts of the Totto Land Archipelago blown to kingdom come, his army of Fairies sacrificed to keep himself alive. Broken scapula, shattered ribs, blood loss... He was a fine mess... But he lived. He had taken back that precious gift of life, and made it to the safety of Katakuri's ship as he laughed with delirium through the intense pain. "Kuri..." Okay, everyone was a bit blurry due to that blow to the head, but he'd recognize his giant of an older sibling anywhere. "That was a fun escape. Lots of siblicide, all the violence... I came out on top. Hopefully revealing my worth to you at your side before I inevitably pass out, possibly from pain or shock, or blood loss- His green eyes rolled into his head and he collapsed.

@cxndlequeen

There was indeed so much violence; siblings against siblings. Katakuri at the head of this rebellion against the family. While most knew better than to try and pick a fight with the former minister of flour, there were some who still took that chance.

But, somehow he and those who sided with him, were alive. A bit worse for wear, but alive.

Looking to one of his siblings he gave a sigh as he watched them collapsed to the ground. Poor thing.

"Take him to Brûlée to heal please." He instructed. "We need to set sail."

[delirim]

Despite  the  rain  that  falls  heavy  on  pavements  and  rooftops,  dousing  passerby  and  the  rats  that  scuffle  between  alleys,  not  a  strand  of  Delirium's  hair  wilts.  No,  not  a  single  inch  of  her  is  wetted  by  rain.  Rather, the  drops  fall  heavily  around  her.  Halt  at  her  shoulders  and  head  as  if  walled  by  an  invisible  force;  magnets  turned  same-ways. 

Poor  Corinthian  seems  not  to  be  so  lucky,  posted  across  the  way  with  his  smart  suit  clinging  to  him.  She  hooks  a  finger  under  her  lip and tugs.  Watches  quietly.  ...Since  when  do  Nightmares  wander  beyond  dream-stuff?  Without  a  Dream,  who  do  they  yield  to?  No  Dream,  no  dreams—  but  that's  not  true.  Because  he's  right  here. 

"You're  alright.  ...So  far."  The  girl  idles  curiously.  "A  little...  Wet."  She  can  fix  that.  She  can  do  things,  contrary  to  what  her  siblings  might  say.  With  a  twitch  of  her  finger,  Delirium  casts  the  same  invisible,  waxy  coating  over  her  new  companion.  He's  still  drenched,  granted  (  she  can't  undo  that  much  )  ,  but  she  can  shield  him  from  the  remainder  of  the  storm.

Around  the  Nightmare,  drops  come  alive.  Little  fish  that  flap  their  tails  and  catch  lamplight,  translucent  and  shining.  They  morph  into  tiny  telephones,  tiny  convertibles,  tiny  horses  and  donuts  and  flocks  of  birds.  They  swirl  around  him  like  ectoplasm,  fixed  in  time  and  space,  going  nowhere,  under  her  control.

Something  sours  in  her,  then.  Just  for  a  second, the  little  mouth  contorts  into  a  frown.

Morpheus.

“He  cares.  In  his  own  special  way…  I  think.”  She  snaps  to  sudden  aliveness.  A  ball  of  vivid,  multicolored  light  in  the  middle  of  that  awful,  wet  sidewalk.  “He  came  to  my  realm  and  picked  flowers.  He  wouldn’t  do  that  for  anyone,  he  likes  me.”

So  where  is  that  brother  of  hers?

Delirium  clasps  her  hands  together.  They’ve  covered  enough  ground  that  the  Endless  and  Nightmare  now  stand  on  the  same  square  of  pavement.  “Are  you  lost  too?  You  don’t  look  like  you’re  enjoying  the  rain.”

She’s  seen  drowned  animals  look  better.

“Have  you  ever  been  in  a  flood?  I  was  in  a  great big massive  one once.”

@peacereflected / The Corinthian.

"My big brother makes nightmares like you, doesn't he...?"

Rain beats against the slim shoulders of a girl no older than... Well, it's quite impossible to tell a girl's age when she's swamped in shadow, isn't it? When she's turned herself into a lithe, dark mass of short limbs and wild hair. She's nothing at all.

Above her, a street lamp flickers. Sends its beam down onto the slab of sidewalk directly in front of her, but not penetrating the crepuscule of that alley. Wherever it is...

"Scary ones with slack-jaws and beady little eyes. Great big toothy things— fuck, I don't like those much."

Step, step. A colorful, tattered shoe breaches the lamplight, soaked by rain and with laces trailing limply behind. There's a smell in the air, she thinks. Coppery—like someone's insides. Pennies. Pennies. What's this nightmare doing all alone?

Step. Water splashes gently underfoot.

A leg. A torso. Small and frail. Light dances across layers of tattered fabric and an unseemly feathered coat.

The girl lifts one of her hands, ever-so-faintly visible in the pale glow of the moon, and twists a strand of hair around it.

"... Brother's not usually so. Disappeary. I need him. You'll help me find him, won't you? You're one of his."

[dreamxmaker]

Tag dump~

[xmalereader]

Lord Morpheus X Male Reader

-

|| Masterlist ||

-

Authors Note: The whole Grumpy x Sunshine reader is starting to become my favorite for lord Morpheus and decided to make another God of happiness shot! Enjoy this wholesome!

Summary: Morpheus has reached the point of wanting to court the God of happiness after knowing each other for a few years, wanting to create something serious between the two.

Warnings: Fluff, siblings, mentions of endless family, Mentions of death and delirium, Gods of happiness and darkness, bonding, slight kissing, courting, marriage proposal.

Word count: 2.5K

—

—

The God of Darkness is glaring at the Dream Lord, Dream of the Endless, King of Dreams and Nightmares, Lord Morpheus. He’s looking deep into his soul as he hissed out again.

“No.”

Lord Morpheus held his head up high with his hands behind his back. “Void, i’m not asking—I'm simply telling you.”

“And I’m telling you no.” Void fights back as he takes a step forward, challenging the Endless. “You will not be courting my brother and I will not allow it.”

“It’s not your choice too decide his fate.” Morpheus reminds the God as he growls in anger, turning around in spot as he frowns. “You will not be courting my brother, endless or not. He won’t be by your side.” He warns Dream of the Endless, giving him one last look before disappearing into the darkness. Sunny’s older brother had taken notice of Lord Morpheus courtship towards his brother. As much as he cared for his little brother he wasn’t going to allow an Endless to take his innocence away.

The King of Dreams himself had fallen for the God of Happiness after years of knowing each other. Since the day he first saw his bright smile he was able to feel that familiar tug In his heart, the same feeling he had for Nada and Calliope. He didn’t expect himself to experience that again but with Sunny he would allow such feeling.

The god of happiness was perfect as a husband and partner. He got along well with all of his siblings and the hall adored him, not matter how bad some could usually be, Y/n is always able to work his way inside their hearts. Death already accepts him as a little brother that she adores and loves to be around with. His joy and happiness is contagious, not only to humans but to the endless too.

The news of his courting had reached the rest of siblings, earning them a very interesting conversation during the dinner together with Dream sitting on one end of the table while the rest of his siblings settled. It’s Death who bring up the conversation of his courting. “Rumors tell me that you’ve started courting someone.” She wiggled here brows in a teasing way as Morpheus rolls his eyes.

“Really? Another poor soul to get hurt and abandoned just like the rest.” Said Desire as they leaned back in their seat, legs crossed as they asks. “Who is this new creature you’ll be courting?”

Morpheus adjusts his seating, locking eyes with his sibling as he answers. “The God of Happiness, Sunny, Ray of Sunshine, Y/n.”

Desire froze on spot, his eyes widening in surprise but then slowly darkening. “As much as I am happy for you, brother. I can’t allow you to go after Sunny. You see he’s far too like-able and knowing you, you’d probably hurt his heart.”

Morpheus knew that his last relationships didn’t work out and that he’s made mistakes before but Sunny was a lot different than the rest. He made him feel whole and because of him he can be someone new, someone who can make great changes to himself and his realm. He appreciated Y/n’s presences and even found himself surprised when we the small God challenged him if Morpheus were to over step any boundaries. Everyone knew that he wasn’t one who easily fell in love, but this god has caused such stir inside of him to want to start courting.

“I appreciate your concern, sibling. But, I can assure you that Y/n can make their own decision. If he refuses to accept my proposal the I will not force him nor will I leave his side. I’ll continue to be a friend of his—that is if he wishes.”

“Of course, he’d say Yes!” Death was obviously the happy one for her brother. “I see the way he is around you and he really likes you. You just wait and see.” She gives him a wink, causing a small smile to spread on his lips before the silence is broken by their younger sister Delirium.

“Sunny.” She starts, getting Dreams attention. She sat on the far left side of the table next to Destiny as she asks. “If he says yes, could I meet him?” Both Endless and God had many similarities and she wished to meet him someday.

Dream eyes his younger sister, the two never had a close bond like he did with Death. He was sometimes cautious around her after she changed but he was willing to give their relationship another chance before giving a small nod. “Of course.” His younger sister smiles, turning back to focus on her own doing as she kicked her legs happily. The spent their rest of their family dinner catching up with each other and knowing about their own duties.

—

From the Waking world, the God of happiness roams happily as he walks in a park, a skip in his step as he hums a soft tune that his sister, Love, had sung to him once. For some reason he felt happier than usual, feeling something good coming today. He had fulfilled his duties and had met manny new people that enjoyed his company, his little meet up with Death had to be missed due to her family dinner which he understood. He too, sometimes joined his own family dinners in order to reconnect with his sisters and brother who’ve been busy on their ends.

He didn’t mind being on his own, he’s been used to it for many centuries and could last a few more. He was lost in his thoughts that he doesn’t sense his brother, Void, appear next to his side. “Brother.” His voice startles him, causing him to trip over his own feet but Void is able to grab his arm on time and hold him upright before he falls to the floor.

“Oh, Void! I didn’t expect to see you here, what brings you to France?” Y/n cheerfully asks, straightening himself and fixing his clothes as his brother. God of Darkness, Ruler of chaos, asks him a question. “Have you ever fallen in love?”

Y/n is caught off guard by his brothers question, opening and closing his mouth as he tries to find an answer. “A few times, many years ago actually.”

“And now?”

The god shuts his mouth, face growing red at the thought of falling in love again. Lately he has been growing feeling for the King of Dreams but nothing has been confirmed to know of Morpheus felt the same. If not, he didn’t want to ruin the close friendship they’ve created after a few years of knowing each other. “I—no.” He lies, turning around quickly to avoid his older brothers protest as he continues to walk forward.

“Your a terrible liar.” His brother says, following after him as Y/n tried to get himself distracted or come up with an excuse to avoid his brothers questions. “What about you? Haven’t you ever fallen in love?” He shot back while Void frowns. “Never.” Is his response which breaks Y/n heart a little, hearing his older brother admit to never falling in love. “Really?” His own voice is soft and perhaps full of petty but his brother isn’t bothered by it. “Who would love the Ruler of Chaos and Darkness? No mortal or immortal would.”

“You don’t know that.” Y/n frowns. “I bet their is someone out their who would love you and believe me brother when you find them or when they find you, you’ll soon start to get that fuzzy feeling inside whenever your around them. You’ll want to be around them and get to know their likes and dislikes—Oh! The best feeling of falling in love is knowing that they love you back!”

Void can’t help but smile at his brothers reaction towards love. He expected this conversation more with his sister, Love. But, his little brother was an acceptation. Just the sound of his voice growing excited at the mention of love is enough for him to know that his little brother has fallen hard for the King of Dreams. As much as he hates the idea of the two courting their isn’t much he can do to stop it. If love makes his brother react this way then he couldn’t possibly ruin the happiness he is to receive soon.

“One day I’ll be able to experience that feeling but, right now you can give yourself the time to fall in love. Just, don’t tell Love that I said this you know how she gets.” He groans out. If his sister found out about their conversation it would be chaos for the two.

“I won’t!” Y/n chuckles, standing close to his brother as the two walked together down the park in France. He was soon to leave to London and start his new duties there before visiting the Dreaming. He hears Void sigh deeply and say. “I care for you, you know that right?”

Y/n stands in front of his brother, stopping him in his steps as he raised a brow. “Why does it sound like your dying or something. Did you do something wrong?” His eyes widen. “Did you kill someone?” He whispers this time, voice quiet.

Void rolls his eyes. “None of the above, i’m simply letting you know that I care for you and wish you joy and happiness.” His voice drips with sarcasm now. “Enjoy our moment or else I’ll make you cry again.”

Y/n pouts, giving him a glare. “Maybe you should ask for advice on how to be kind to your family by Love. She can give you some good tips.” He jabs his finger against his brothers chest, “or else I’ll tell her about our bonding moment.”

The God of Darkness froze, eyes hard as he glared. “You wouldn’t dare.”

The God of Happiness grins. “Try me, brother.”

—

When Morpheus returns back from his family dinner and duties he is informed by Lucienne that all was well in the realm and that a guest had arrived to see him. Morpheus didn’t have many guests visiting him but upon hearing Sunny’s name he can’t help but smile a little.

He was told that he’d left to walk around the Dreaming and to explore for a bit with Matthew by his side. His trusty raven watching over the god of happiness as they roam around Fiddlers green.

“—he did that?”

Morpheus can hear Y/n’s voice from a distance as he continued to walk further into Fiddlers green.

“Yeah! I tell you, kid. Lucifer was not happy after their defeat by the boss himself.” Matthew responds back to their small conversation as they sat underneath a tree. Y/n humming to himself as he pulls his legs up to his chest. “I think one only met them once.” He blurts out, at startling the raven in surprise. “You’ve meet Lucifer?! The King of hell, are you crazy?”

Y/n shrugs his shoulders. “I met them when they were first banished from Silver city. They were actually my first.” He confessed. “They were alone and sad and I guess I was there during the right time. I brought them some happiness during our first meeting and they have always respected me. Lucifer wouldn’t cause me any trouble.” He turns to Matthew who said no words, far too shocked at the idea of Lucifer being his first victim of happiness.

“That is impressive, who would have thought.” Matthew flaps his wings, ruffling them as he puffs his chest out, causing Y/n to stroke his feathers, giving them a light touch as Matthew leans into it. The two not noticing Morpheus standing near by as he watched and listened. The story between Sunny and Lucifer was something new to hear, he didn’t think the god of happiness was powerful enough to bring slight happiness to the Ruler of Hell themselves.

As they continued to converse, Morpheus takes his time on reveal himself from the shadows. Approaching the two as Y/n looks up from Matthew and a wide smile spreads on his lips. “Hello, Dreamy.” He calls out, coming to a stand as he brushed off any grass on his legs and standing in front of Morpheus.

“What happened to Morphy?” He questions at the sudden name change. “Oh! I’ll still call you Morphy but today your Dreamy.” His face goes red when he noticed the way it sounds. “Wait no, I mean—your dreamy as in Dream because your the king of dreams—I mean you are dreamy but—actually—“ He continued to ramble not really knowing what he was saying anymore as Morpheus steps up. “Relax.”

He whispered, finally getting the god to calm down and let out a deep sigh.

“Sorry.” He sighs out, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. The tension between them grows until Y/n gasps in remembrance. “I almost forgot!” He reached into his own pocket while saying. “I got you something during my travels in the waking world. I was visiting an old friend and they helped me make you this.” He holds out a golden necklace with a blue circled stone with raven engravings carved into it, he shyly hands it to him and clears his throat. “I thought you’d like it—“ Dream gently takes it from his hand, thumb grazing over the stone. “—figured you’d accept it as a courting gift.” He bounced on his toes nervously. His hands behind his back as he takes notice of Morpheus’ frozen state.

His reaction is causing Y/n to panic, perhaps this wasn’t a good idea. Maybe asking for courting was something Morpheus didn’t do, the sudden panic was causing him to doubt himself. “If you don’t wish too accept that’s also fine!”

“I do accept.” Morpheus cuts in, holding the necklace in his hand as he smiles softly at the small god. “Strange how I was going to ask you the same question, didn’t think you’d beat me to it.”

Y/n can’t believe his words as he laughs, not thinking that the two were thinking the same thing about the other. “Dream of the Endless asking to court me? Now, that is surprising.”

Morpheus chuckles, stepping forward to place a hand on his waist and pulling him close. “Does an Endless surprise you?”

“A little.” He chuckles. “Don’t forget, if you wish to court me you Matt provide me a gift.” He lightly swats Morpheus’ hand from his waist as the Lord laughs at his actions. “For you, I’ll give you the world.”

Y/n hums. “How about starting small?” His eyes roam Fiddlers green before landing on Matthew. “How about Matthew?”

“Wait what—?” The raven is standing on a branch and confused.

Morpheus puckered his lips. “Debatable.” He responds, “Unfortunately, Matthew isn’t a gift I can provide.”

“Very well, then I give you twenty four hours to think of something.” Y/n leans forward to peck his cheek, smiling against his skin before pulling away. “Twenty four hours and then you can come find me.” He whispers to the Dream Lord making him weak on the knees. “Of course, my ray of sunshine.”

[thenightling]

The clues that suggest what Morpheus’s sigil was before his helm

I have a theory that Morpheus's pre-helm sigil in The Sandman was a five pointed star, a pentacle without a circle. In The Sandman Overture we are told the story of how Morpheus got his helm but at the same time we are also told that The Endless were already using sigils (magical symbols used to represent each other) to call out to one and other.  Destiny’s sigil was his book with a chain, Death’s is an ankh, Desire’s is a stylized heart, Despair’s was a spiked (later hooked) ring, Destruction’s was a sword, and Delirium’s (when she was still Delight) was a flower and later a blotch of rainbow color.  But we are never told what Morpheus’s sigil was before his helm.  I strongly suspect it was a pentacle, probably without the circle around it.  A five pointed star.

Probably looking like this:

Here is the evidence to support my theory:

1.  Though non-canonical, the five-pointed-star is Morpheus’s sigil in the 'lil Endless books.

2.   Five pointed stars appear in many patterns within The Dreaming, including the ceiling of the throne room.

3.    Sometimes the five-pointed-stars are in the patterns of his own clothing.

4.  Morpheus says he is of every faith and a star (of various forms) is found in nearly all religious symbolism.   Pentacle in Wicca and other forms of neopagansim, the Star of David in Judaism, the Star of Bethlehem in Christianity,  The star and crescent moon in Islam, and so on.

5.   The meaning behind the pentacle in most pagan beliefs is that it represents the five elements of Water, fire, Earth, air, and spirit, controlled and contained by will.  It is the symbol of magick and of life.  Dreams and reality in one.   What better symbol for the Lord shaper than a symbol which, by its nature, means to shape reality with your heart and mind?

6.  Morpheus's eyes are star-flares in darkness. Stars are literally a part of him.

7.  Morpheus's very "grave" is a star watching over The Dreaming.

8.   When looking at the sand in Soft Places some of the grains look like stars, very similar to the star of David.

And so I believe the five-pointed star was probably his pre-helm sigil.   Spirals also turn up quite a bit but the star is more common.

The five pointed star (or free-floating pentacle without a circle) was probably a Hell of a lot easier for his siblings to draw when and if they needed to call out to him. 

It may have been a slight annoyance for poor Lucien considering his established fondness for werewolves (see Tales of Ghost Castle and The Hunt issue of The Sandman).  This would be because in pop culture such as The Wolf Man (1941), Dark Shadows (1966), and An American werewolf in London (1981) the pentacle was a ward of protection against werewolves.

  I think if there was ever an opportunity for Daniel and Morpheus to co-exist, Daniel would likely retain the helm as his sigil since it was passed to him, but Morpheus’s sigil might have changed (reverted back) to what it had once been millennia ago, his star.  Change isn’t always a linear progression.  Sometimes it’s a reversion. And the star seems more heavily associated with Morpheus than it is with Daniel. 

[ordinariums-a]

They're not feeling touch right now, but this was Aziraphale. So they create - on a whim, a sweet, and they place it delicately in the outstretched hand. It was shaped like a lid from a can of fizzy drink - the thing you pulled to open it - and would taste, very strongly, of sulphur mixed with pomegranates and apple. A taste they were absolutely feeling right now, on a level much higher than ordinary.

"We always have to consider it. The fact that she knows who I am is enough for it to be suspicious, Az. And .. she does know who I am. She caught the butterflies I made and didn't set them on fire. She didn't run when I showed her what was in my mind and she-- didn't laugh, or ignore me, when I was struggling and being weird." And they know, absolutely is totally self aware, that they were weird. But somebody taking the time out of their lives to accommodate them, rather than shove them to the side and ignore them? It was invaluable to Delirium. And part of the reason why they enjoy Aziraphale's company so much.

"I don't know if I want to romantically love someone, if that's something I'm even .. interested in. But she feels different. Maybe I just miss being seen. Maybe I'm just lonely. Aside from you. I don't see my siblings as much as I .. want. They're too busy, with their realms or their partners or .. in their own mazes he believes is so secure. Or creating art, or -- sitting in thunderstorms." And they run a hand through their hair and shakes their head. "They all give me a look. It's pity. Poor Delirium. I hate it. She doesn't give me that look, and neither do you."

"Oh, absolutely." He doesn't deny it. There's no sense it it, not when Delirium knows his tells. Instead of answering more, though, the angel focuses on what they're saying. They sound terrified of the prospect and it's not really something Aziraphale can do anything other than advise upon -- though who was he to give advice about love, after the stunt they'd just pulled? Poor Crowley.

" You don't want to, but you are. And you're right-- it's quite frightening." The angel rests a hand between them, palm up and open. If he's being honest, it's as much for them as it is for her. " What reason would she have, if she's not mortal, to use your status as Endless against you, or to her own advantage? " Sometimes, it's better to think these things through in scenarios, he finds, because sometimes you realise how redundant worries are. Other times you imagine what going to Alpha Centauri instead of heaven might have been like.

" I think going slowly would be a good idea, don't you? Not rushing yourself into anything before you feel ready. "

[giasesshoumaru]

“Was I really that obvious?”

“No. You covered your tracks remarkably well.”

“Well, that's high praise coming from you."

"What did you truly intend? That I should spill family blood? With all that would entail?”

“This time it almost worked.”

“My sibling. We of the Endless are the servants of the living, not their masters. We exist only because they know deep in their hearts that we exist. We do not manipulate them. If anything, they manipulate us. And you and Despair, and even poor Delirium would do well to remember that. Mess with me or mine again and I shall forget you are family. Do you believe yourself strong enough to stand against me? Against Death? Against Destiny?”

“No."

"Remember that next time you're inspired to interfere in my affairs.”

“Oh, poor Dream. I really got under your skin this time, didn't I? Next time, I'll draw blood." - Desire and Dream aka Morpheus (The Sandman, Episode 1.10)

[honeybeezgobzzzzz]

𓅨 As Dawn Breaks: Chapter Nineteen

As Dawn Breaks: Mother Night and Father Time, after having sired seven Endless to personify life in the known universe, create Earth and human life begins. One last Endless is created: Dawn, the personification of illumination and hope, the beginning of a new day and a chance for happiness and improvement. A love will span thousands of millennia, breaking with every sunrise and renewing hope come sunset. Yet, even the personification of hope can lose the very notion of her existence from the sting of a broken heart.

Warnings: Angst.

To Note: Dream/Morpheus x Endless!FemaleReader(Dawn), This Involves Themes That Are Not For Everyone.

Word Count: ~2.4k

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He should have seen it coming, Desire had been picking fights with him for eons. But this? This was declaring war. But for what consequence? That Dream should spill his own blood and be destroyed by the rules of old? Something had caused Desire to be far more vicious this time, and Dream needed to find out what. So he strode his way to his gallery and came to a stop in front of Desire’s sigil. His fingers took down the black floating heart, and Dream stared cooly at it.

“Desire. I stand in my gallery and I hold your sigil. Talk to me.” Dream commanded, watching as the heart pulsated and Desire’s face appeared.

“Why, sweet Dream. This is a surprise. Almost an event, I might say.” Desire cooed, expecting that at some point, their older sibling would come calling.

“Good. I'm coming through.” Dream stated, not wasting any time.

“You are? But of course.” They crossed their ankles and wiggled their tail mischievously. “You know you're always welcome in my chambers.”

Dream strode through the red soaked domain of Desire’s realm, his eyes focusing on Desire lazily lounging around. Cat like gold eyes settled on Dream and a Cheshire smirk grew.

“Lovely to see you. Can I get you anything you desire?”  The muscle beneath Dream’s left eye twitched.

“I desire nothing from you, save some answers.” Desire pouted and brushed their fingers over their painted lips.

“Ooh, is this a test?” Desire perked up, their cat ears coming to attention while the put puzzlement on their face.

“Unity Kincaid should've been the vortex of this era.” Dream went on to say, walking closer and closer to Desire. “But someone took advantage of my imprisonment and fathered a child with her, knowing full well that it would become the vortex, and I would be forced to kill it.”

“Was I really that obvious?” Desire questioned, a wide smirk on their lips. They had gotten ever so close to their goal they had almost tasted it. The corner of Dream’s mouth upturned in a sneer.

“No,” He bit out, upper lip twitching while Dream began to move in a circle again. “You covered your tracks remarkably well.” Desire sat up, enjoying the reaction Dream was giving him.

“Well, that's high praise coming from you.”

“What did you truly intend? That I should spill family blood? With all that would entail?” Desire chuckled and made a face at Dream.

“This time it almost worked. I’m quite proud of that, I’ve been trying for millennia. It was time I got results.” This time Dream couldn’t stop the eye twitch. His sibling was so open to admitting they had been trying to stir up trouble for that long?

" My sibling.” Dream spoke, shaking his head in disbelief. “We of the Endless are the servants of the living, not their masters.” He started stalking his way around Desire, slowly, predatorily, his eyes never once straying from gleaming golden ones. “We exist only because they know deep in their hearts that we exist.  We do not manipulate them. If anything, they manipulate us.” Dream was now behind Desire. “And you and Despair, and even poor Delirium would do well to remember that.” Dream grabbed Desire by their blonde hair and yanked their head back, glaring down into Desire’s eyes. Desire hissed out. “Mess with me or mine again and I shall forget you are family. Do you believe yourself strong enough to stand against me? Against Death? Against Destiny?”

“No,” Desire bit out.

“Remember that next time you are inspired to interfere in my affairs.” Dream growled at them before shoving himself away and striding for the exit. Desire could help but take one last jab at him, after all, he had caused immeasurable hurt to precious little Dawn.

“Oh, poor Dream. I really got under your skin this time, didn't I? And to think that you are convinced this is entirely about you.” That stopped Dream in his tracks. Desire loved to gloat, they loved to gloat immensely… but if they were insinuating that they had gotten someone else involved… Dream looked over his shoulder and stared at Desire with a gaze full of warning. Desire laughed. “Well if you want to know why I did it, I’ll tell you…” Desire looked at their perfectly manicured nails, inspecting them for nonexistent imperfections.

“Enough of your games, Desire.” He uttered darkly. Golden eyes glimmered and lips smirked.

“I did it because you hurt her, I’ve done everything because you hurt her. Have you learned your lesson yet, big brother?” Every molecule within Dream’s body froze in place. Desire laughed once more. “Mhm, I think not. Until next time!”

“What do you speak of, Desire.” Dream questioned, his voice going deeper. “You dare to suggest—“

“That all my meddling was because of what you did to precious darling Dawn? Oh quite so, I’ve learned plenty from our interaction in the past eons.” Dreams head tilted in confusion. You had allowed Desire to your gardens? But had you not sealed your gates to all? Had you not thrown up such formidable defenses that your essence had been cut off from the other Endless. Desire could see the thinking process on Dreams face. “Oh, you thought that she cut everyone out, dear brother?” They laughed. “No, dear sweet Dream, she is not in isolation… if anything I think The Gardens have thrived despite her suffering. She and— well, I’m sure you don’t care about it so I’ll not bore you.”

Dream did in fact care, he cared a great deal now that he had fully grasped the gravity of his error. But Desire has said that despite her suffering, The Gardens has thrived. For what reason did Dawn have to suffer? Did she not have her people and their child to comfort her? Clearly Dream was missing something.

“Desire, what is it you know of Dawn and our child?” Dream questioned, turning in place to fully look at his sibling. Desire smirked and looked at their fingernails again, rolling onto their stomach and kicking up their feet with disinterest.

“Do you even deserve to know anything after all these eons of maintaining your distance, dear brother? If you want to know, you’ll have to go yourself.” Desire giggled, brushing a hand down their throat. “Good luck with that, you’re going to need it. The Gardens is an impenetrable fortress now and visitors are strictly monitored.” Those words stung, and rightfully so. Dream wasn’t deserving of hearing about your wellbeing. He didn’t deserve anything after his indiscretion and morbid mistreatment of you. But he was determined to make things right, so he turned around and left Desire to their deviousness and delight. It was time he spoke with you, should you be willing.

You had decided to take a break from your busy schedule to do a little fall cleaning in your archives. Ruta had happily taken over the duty of monitoring the gates and your other handmaidens were even more happy to see you taking on less strenuous work. You had to admit you were working more lately, mostly due to the knowledge of Dream once again free. The conversation you had-had with his raven, Matthew, had left you wondering if The Dreaming was well after having lost its ruler for 106 years.

Sighing, you turned to the shelf of old scrolls tucked away in your study and scanned your eyes over the colored ribbons holding the scrolls closed. You were looking for a particular millennium and if you recalled correctly, as you always did, it had a turquoise ribbon with a single string of gold threaded through it. You found it near the top of the shelf, and stretched up for it. Fingers brushing the worn papyrus, you made a face and stretched on your toes further. Taking the scroll down from the shelf, you glided over to your desk which already had several other scrolls laid out, and set it down next to your oil lamp.

You ought to take a break from fall cleaning, you had been at it since the previous morning and surely Ruta or Zinnia would come storming in to make you rest… but you would feel better it you finished the organization. So taking a seat, you got back to work.

Ruta was glaring at Dream with a very unimpressed look and one might have withered beneath such a look if they weren’t Dream of the Endless. Dream knew that your handmaiden was not happy to see him, not after the pain and agony he had caused you. But she had allowed him to enter The Gardens on his promise to follow through with his intent of apologizing for his actions eons past.

“There is nothing I can do to earn Dawn’s forgiveness, but I am determined to do what I must to ease her pain.” Ruta huffed from where she strode ahead of him, her sharp eyes glancing over her shoulder.

“You know nothing of the pain and agony her ladyship has suffered and relived since that day, Lord Dream,” Ruta snapped out, not feeling the least bit worried about angering the Dream Lord. She knew him well enough and was not shy in telling him how she saw it. Dream respected her for that. Ruta had been by your side since the beginning, the first of your people and eternally faithful. 

“I am aware of the agony I have caused, Ruta, and it was inexcusable and wrong of me to cast—“ Ruta rounded on the Endless.

“No, Morpheus, you do not understand the agony you have put Dawn through. You have no idea what your actions have caused, have reaped. Have you any idea what your action have caused to a persona such as her? To hope!? Of course not!” Had this been anyone else Dream would had been insulted and refused to be spoken to in such a way. But this wasn’t just anyone, this was Ruta. No one knew you better than her. “I never thought it was possible to destroy hope, but you nearly succeeded.”

That stung viciously, and there was nothing Dream could do because Ruta was right.

“I do not intend to speak of excuses with her. Only the truth of my morbid folly and egregious error.” Dream promised, looking at the dryad with truth echoing within his eyes. Ruta clicked her tongue.

“So you say… but know this, Morpheus, shall you cause any further damage? I will personally make it my mission to end you, no matter the cost.” Dream flinched at the tone in her voice, for the dryad did not waver in her threat. How badly had he hurt you to cause this much hostility from the handmaiden?

“I should see myself destroyed before I cause further harm to the one I hold most dear.” Ruta studied him hard before gesturing to an archway decorated with bignonia capreolata cross vine. The bright tangerine blooms were looking particularly luminous this night.

“You will find our lady within her private courtyard, mind your manners.” With that last warning, Ruta strode off. She wouldn’t stay too far should Dream cause her lady any more pain… but she would allow him the privilege of discovering the truth in privacy.

Dream walked down orange and green covered halls, feeling like he was going through a tunnel of darkness. But that darkness finally broke to reveal your private courtyard. It had been changed since he had seen it last. It was still just as filled with flowers and plants alike, but at the very heart of the open courtyard lay a lotus pond covered in lily pads. There was a single lotus floating in the center, glowing with the essence of you. Soft foot falls along with rustling fabric drew Dream’s attention to an archway to his left and then you appeared… and you were a sight to behold.

You were wearing one of your lounging chitons, a dusty purple with bronze leaf pins holding it against your shoulders and a matching vine wrapped around your waist. You had a papyrus within your hand and a host of scrolls tucked under your arms. Always working you were, even eons later.

“Ruta, have you seen the scrolls for the protohistorian times? I cannot find them within my shelves and there is discrepancy from the end of the Iron Age…” You spoke, not looking up from the papyrus in your hand. Ruta was not there to answer and Dream was too caught up in your appearance and radiant beauty to respond. Not to mention your voice had taken Dream prisoner, it had been so long that he had forgotten how soft and light it was. Eyebrows pinching together, you glanced upwards. The moment your eyes came into contact with star filled ones, you froze in step, the scrolls and papyrus slipping from your hands like oil laden tools.

They fluttered to the soft grass underfoot as you stood petrified and in shock. You felt your throat constrict within your body and struggled to respond to his presence, even when Dream moved forwards and collected the documents you had dropped. It felt an eternity before you finally found your voice.

“What business do you require of me, Dream?” You uttered, your voice trembling ever so slightly as you struggled to retain your composure. Dream closed his eyes and exhaled softly. Of course you would think that he would only come for business. Opening his eyes, Dream stepped up to you and offered your fallen documents. You snatched them back and held them against your chest as if they would protect you from him. He hated that. He hated how guarded you were, hated that he could see physical pain in your beautiful eyes. He hated the cold that oozed from your body. You should be warm, you should be full of happiness. You should be anything but this disparaged state of agony.

“I wish to apologize for my egregious actions and words towards you. I am much to late to apologize, but I will do so endlessly to absolve the pain I have caused you.” Dream spoke to you, watching your face closely. “And… if you will allow me the privilege, I should like to meet our child.”

You wanted to cry. Were on the cusp of doing so, your eyes were burning so viciously. This had been what you had waited for-for eons. But that cruel pain that ripped into your essence so savagely, had twisted it to the point where your words were not ones of affirmation or denial. You simply thrust your available hand towards the lone blooming lotus in the center of your lotus pond as your face turned hard.

“If you wish to speak with our child, they are right there. I, however, will not!”

Date Published: 3/20/23

Last Edit: 3/20/23

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