#he'd call it Dream as opposed to Nightmare

[crystal-va]

What are some of the differences between original William and your William, both before and after destruction?

Thank you for your curiosity!

(technically this kind of ask should have gone to @ask-voidverse but it's not too big of a deal)

This is more of an info dump than a comparison, but this'll still get the idea across (hopefully)

Before Destruction:

William is largely the same. The most notable difference is the fact that he's more shy in the beginning.

I suppose he's also a little more friendly than his original variant too.

After Destruction: (I have not reached this point in writing [VOID]!Alphatale, so things might change when I do)

I decided to also cover relationships, because yes.

William is closed off and quiet. Unlike his original variant, William is actually quite sympathetic and emotional, but tries to hide it

404 isn't nearly as busted in my variant. I've limited his power from being able to destroy entire universes, or even hyper verses, to now being a planet buster, or at his most powerful, being able to destroy a universe. Still incredibly broken, but not as bonkers as original 404.

Skipping to the beginning of New Puppet Book 1, William has fully lost who he was. William is a name he only ever hears in his nightmares. As 404, William tries to build business relationships with others. Treating Error and Root (my own character) as more of assistants than underlings (Root acts more like his child than an assistant tho). Seraphim and King Multiverse are treated closer to slaves with no purpose other than serving him, which is pretty similar to normal.

At some point, 404 will also recruit Fatal_Error, using Fatal's immense desire to bring his Papyrus back as leverage to call on him when needed. Feeding him small amounts of Papyrus code every time they work together, but he knows Fatal won't be happy with any Papyrus he makes, so he considers Fatal a semi permanent member of the crew with little chance of leaving. He'd be willing to take control of Fatal like he did with Seraphim if the need arose.

Bill!Sans is kind of like a convenient nuisance for 404. 404 does hate him, but he appreciates the times Bill has helped him out of a weird spot and pays him back on occasion.

404 keeps a more public appearance as opposed to his more secretive nature in cannon. He constantly keeps people like Nightmare, Ink, Core, and Shattered Dream aware of his existence in an attempt to either keep them from getting in his way, or even have them consider assisting him in some endeavors.

[retroillustrates]

I'm here to annoy yall with tragic (and slightly exaggerated) art I reused an old illustration to draw a scene from my microfic

(I don't promise I won't do this again lol)

Fic under cut if yall don't feel like going to my AO3

Hashirama's eyes followed the man who is staggering in front of him. His moves sluggish and raw from the battle, both of their armors half destroyed.

"I guess I underestimated you, Hashirama." Madara half laughed, half choked on his own blood which he promptly spat on the muddy ground. Rain had begun pouring down at some point.

"Madara, cease this. It's not too late to return." Hashirama started, but Madara laughed at him

"You're still at it, Hashirama? Haven't we decided upon that in battle? It is too late. It had been for quite some time." Madara wiped the blood off his lip, his sharingan deactivating from exhaustion.

Hashirama clenched his fists "You're willing to just throw away our dream like that? What changed, Madara?" he didn't want to acknowledge what protecting the dream meant: stopping anyone who opposed it, even if it meant death.

"Wake up to reality, Hashirama. I never changed. I'm simply taking action. It's time to properly establish peace upon the world, and I'll be the one to accomplish it."

"Is that not what we both wanted, Madara?" Hashirama took a step towards him. Had all of what they went through been for naught? Just empty words? "Your idea of peace is unstable, and doomed to fail. How can you see prosper in such a foolish ideal? People are not like you, they are selfish and self serving. No one will ever ne truly able to understand each other." Madara took a step forward as well.

Another step, and another step, and they were face to face again.

Hashirama looked at Madara's form. He was battered and bruised all over, but his eyes showed determination. Misguided determination. Hashirama almost pitied him. He wanted to help him but at the same time he could not abandon his legacy just as it was starting to grow it's roots.

"Madara, stop this. We both want the same thing, and we cannot achieve it alone. Come back to the village. If it's about the Uchiha discrimination issue, I'll resolve it with Tobirama, and-"

Madara laughed again. Hashirama found it unsettling "You just can't get a grip, can you? It's not about the damn clan, Hashirama, not even about my dead kin!" he growled, revealing a kunai he sneaked from his sleeve. Hashirama met it instantly with his katana and disarmed Madara in a matter of seconds. Madara fell to his knee.

"You've exhausted yourself. You can't fight me like this." he looked down at the man, who was taking in painful breaths. "I don't wish to kill you, Madara."

Madara huffed "And yet you fought me with all your might." he looked up at the man, who had his sword still pointed at him "And you also want me at your side for your silly ideale that are doomed to fail and bring more traumas to the following generations. You may preserve the" peace," but will you be able to preserve those for whom that peace will be for?" he grinned, his face twisted and sinister. Hashirama took a step back. He'd never seen Madara like that.

"And if you really want me and need me that bad, then take me!" Madara laughed again, and charged at him, allowing Hashirama's blade to run through his heart. Hashirama screamed in horror as Madara's body fell to the ground, the rain spreading the crimson across the wet ground.

"Anything for your dream, is that so? Curse you for a slayer." the Uchiha's eye glowed in the dark, dripping with red, and Hashirama felt sick, felt like he wanted to scream over and over.

*

"Hashirama!" a voice called out to him.

His body shook and he jolted up with a yell. He felt Mito's hands on him, a comforting presence in the hell of his mind.

"Nightmares?" she knew him well. He nodded.

"I know well how bad they are." she whispered. He leaned into her arms and she found no more words of comfort.

[howlsofbloodhounds]

Ok based on your most recent post (I am obsessed I love it sm-). I honestly think that once Delta wakes up to see them with him again he'd probably freak out a little bit, and have no idea if this is reality or another nightmare. But once he is able to figure it out, they might be upset and ask Color and Epic questions about the subjects of their nightmares (ex; about the jar one, he might ask why they couldn't hear them and why didn't they bother to look in the jars) and might completely get confused with reality.

I also think that because they had dissociated for so long (probably spanning days or weeks before they came back to reality), he would have gone completely nonverbal and would have switched to sign language (the silence also most likely made them incredibly paranoid - too paranoid to break it by speaking. So, in order to keep the quiet, they silenced themselves and haven't spoken in a good long while), furthering their dissociation and PTSD spiral.

Now of course this would concern Epic and Color, and they'd likely have to explain that the nightmares weren't reality, but would also have to try to get him to explain what the hell had happened during the time they were both gone, and why he hadn't called them for help once they're able to talk in the morning.

(But since you mentioned how they'd probably help Delta fall asleep, I can't help but wonder how they'd react if Delta woke up from a bad nightmare about them, and how the talk in the morning would go?)

I love this addition, it makes complete sense. And now that we’re on the topic about this type of thing, I actually feel like it���d be easier for Color and Epic to understand these things more than it seems.

For Color, it’s due to his relationship with Killer. We all know Killer is a dissociative character who cannot often tell what is and is not real anymore, he spends most of his time dissociating—as opposed to Delta and Beta’s episodes of intense dissociative episodes due to events in their lives.

I’m sure that Color has had to help Killer differentiate between dream, memory, and reality many times before, even if it’s as something as simple as having to lightly touch Killer’s shoulder when walking past—otherwise Killer would probably just assume he’s dreaming or it isn’t real.

On the other hand, if I remember correctly, Epic has very vivid and distressing nightmares where he has to constantly fight against creatures/a creature every night due to his magical eye thing. And as a result he learns actual fighting experience from this, but he also often wakes up in pain and panicking. His nightmares are legitimately traumatizing for him.

So I’m assuming Epic would avoid sleep as much as possible, especially in a case such as this, where a beloved friend needs sleep and can’t afford being woken up by his nightmares.

So I’m assuming that once Delta first wakes up in the middle of the night, Epic would actually already be up. He probably was surprised and taken aback by Delta’s panicking, but is quick to try and calm the two of them down.

And when Delta starts using ASL, looking unnerved at any noise made, is when Epic realizes that it was worse than he and Color had thought. And maybe he considers waking Color up, because Color has always been better with words and calming people down between the three of them, but Delta frantically shakes his head ‘no.’

Epic doesn’t argue against this, although he knows Delta is likely doing this because he doesn’t want to worry Color and be perceived as ‘weak,’ doesn’t want to disturb Color’s rest. So instead Epic, Delta, and Beta wander off into the kitchen for some late night milk and cookies.

Epic asks if they’re ready to talk about it, to which they shake their head no. Epic again doesn’t argue, instead settles on to the couch with them to watch some random tv series. He pretends not to notice how Delta keeps staring at him instead of the show, squeezing Epic’s arm tightly.

By the time morning comes around and Color is waking up, Delta and Beta have still not spoken verbally and haven’t slept. Neither has Epic—which only inevitably concerns Color even more, which only increases when Delta suddenly starts rapidly singing at him once spotted.

Color asks him to slow down as he approaches, he didn’t catch that, Epic turning down the volume on the show and turning to face the others more directly. Once Color is seated, he asks Delta to repeat what he said, more slowly this time.

Why didn’t you two hear us? Why didn’t you open it? Why didn’t you look? Why did you leave? We were screaming.

And Epic and Color share a look, confused, before Color begins prompting them to explain with more questions. Look where? Open what? Leave where?

Gradually, they begin to piece together what happened—often Delta and Beta have to pause when they start dissociating again or get too choked up, Color asks Epic to get them a glass of water at some point, but stops when they start panicking again at the question (don’t leave)—and the whole time Delta’s hands are gripping on to his friends so tightly it almost hurts.

I can see them letting Delta and Beta cry it out and calm down enough before Color starts to explain, helps them piece together what was dream and what was memory, versus what actually happened.

I can see Epic trying to make them laugh using his usual humor and memes, because he can see that their paranoia about the silence is making them cautious to speak and furthering their dissociation. Which of course makes it harder for them to fully process what was happening and what is happening.

I think, once they realized what was happening, Delta and Beta might actually feel ashamed, guilty, and/or embarrassed about how they reacted to something that “didn’t even happen.” Delta probably feels guilty, assuming it means that some part of him thinks of Epic and Color as the type of people who’d do that to them.

To which they’d have to reassure him that, no, it was out of his control and doesn’t make him a bad friend or a bad person for having nightmares and feeling abandoned.

I can also see, if either Delta or Beta realizes what happened before the other did, they will attempt to help comfort and ground the other too; such as Beta petting the body’s hand, or hugging themselves due to not being able to physically hug each other. Talking out loud to soothe each other, reminding the other that not only does Epic and Color still love them, but they love each other, too.

[halfratsalready]

Lose Yourself Prequel One Shot Sneak Peek! 🥀

I’ve been fighting writer’s block for so long and haven’t written anything for you guys, so please accept this 600 word excerpt from the opening of the upcoming Jack-centered Lose Yourself series prequel one shot.

(The fic will feature a few moments from Jack’s childhood and his time on the streets as Rose before he met Wanderlust, filling in some of the blanks on how Jack ended up on the streets as Rose and answering some of the questions left unanswered regarding Jack’s backstory in the Lose Yourself series)

This excerpt is subject to change, considering this is an early draft, but I miss writing things for you guys so here we are.

⚠️ Content Warnings: blood & animal death (in the context of a nightmare)

Jack awoke on the morning of his eighth birthday with tears in his eyes. He was no stranger to nightmares- he'd been having them for as long as he could remember- but something about the one he'd had that night had been particularly frightening. Most of his nightmares were recurring ones, and though that didn't make them any less scary as they were happening, they were easier to calm down from upon waking up. Usually the dreams consisted of a strange, twisted version of himself appearing in place of his reflection or of his mother's throne room filled with water, creating an eery lake with an intensely enticing energy that somehow always managed to lure him in, calling for him to wade deeper and deeper into its waters until he drowned and woke up gasping for air. Those dreams were so common that it took him barely any time to calm himself down from them. This one, though, was new, and it had felt somehow even more real than the others did- even when the others felt almost impossibly real to begin with.

He had dreamt that his mother had finally given him the one thing he wanted most in the world for his birthday. For months, he'd been pestering her in an effort to convince her to get him a pet bird. His mother was opposed to the idea of pets, claiming that having him around was close enough already to having one in Swan Tower- always getting underfoot, taking up her time and money, and stubbornly refusing to obey her commands. But a bird, Jack insisted, while still taking up money, wouldn't get underfoot, and the time and attention that it took up would be Jack's own, not his mother's, and it would stay in its cage and sing pretty songs, and Jack would finally have a true friend. She hadn't dismissed the argument entirely, and he was beginning to think that he really did have a chance of getting a bird for his birthday. It was the only thing he had asked for, after all, when she asked what he wanted.

Waking up that morning, though, all of the excitement he'd had about it was gone, and he was suddenly terrified at the thought of getting a bird at all. When he'd gotten one in his dream, after all, a beautiful songbird with feathers as red as Jack's hair, something had felt horribly wrong. It sang, just like Jack wanted, but there was nothing sweet about its song. It sounded more like it was screaming, begging for something that Jack couldn't identify, and when he'd opened its cage to hold it, hoping that a little bit of affection might make it feel better- that was always what Jack wanted when he was upset- it slipped from his grasp, its feathers coated in something wet and sleek. It flapped its wings helplessly as it fell to the floor, but the flapping did nothing to keep the poor thing afloat, and Jack realized when he looked at his hand that the bird hadn't been red at all- it was soaked with blood, and now his hand was coated in it. Crying, Jack dropped to his knees and tried to pick up the poor thing, but it was too sleek with blood and it slipped from his hand every time. Eventually its screaming stopped, and Jack looked up to his mother in terror, meeting her eyes as she smiled in an uncharacteristically kind manner, and then he woke up in his own bed, tears in his eyes and streaming silently down his face.

[lightdancer1]

One of the big reasons I think that it's always a bit of a bad thing to forget the Endless really aren't human:

Is because, and I admit here that this is from the POV of someone who does most, if not quite all, of my fanfics from a Death-centric perspective flip both because Gaiman did Dream well and like prequel Anakin there is only so much man pain and mangst I can take before wanting to reach through the screen and strangle the son of a bitch. Disliking Dream as a wangsty jackass who is the architect of almost all of his own problems does not mean being blind to how dysfunctional the Endless as a whole are.

Yet at the end of the day Dream is not your pantsfeels, he's the in-universe true architect of fear and maker of all nightmares, the guy who casually sends a woman to Hell because she told him no. He is inhuman and fickle and dangerous for any mortals that cross his path.......and as a being of story he is also bound by story-logic to pursue the path that makes the better story at the expense of multiple logical and even emotional reactions.

And in terms of this Dream is not really so different to the rest of the family. Even Destruction, when he walks off, very much remains an Endless and is still Destruction. He doesn't become human, he doesn't give up his powers and he goes into a long rambling set of justifications on that and believing simultaneously that the Endless interfere too much in human affairs and turns his group of friends into a minefield to ensure he stays hidden. Destruction, in short, is a flaming hypocrite at best and should not be taken as the reliable one true truth. None of the Seven Endless are that.

So what does all this have to do with Death? Simple. She will outlive the universe and Death of the Endless will be a title and a moment in time. Unlike any of the others she did outright completely quit and walked out and where Dream's captivity and Destruction's hippie moment didn't cause immediate unraveling of reality as opposed to the realm Death did. She is unlike the other six in ways that would and do contribute to why there's so much talking past each other.

The other six, even Destruction, all see their natures as intertwined with their functions, spheres, and all that go with them. Every hundred years for a day Death gives up all that power and becomes fully, truly mortal. She takes the step none of the others can bring themselves to do, and in spite of being the one that outlives the universe, she has died the most of all her kin and the DCU being what it is probably more than a few of those deaths were not pleasant ones. And this is without the equally logical assumption based on Overture that we only see the Earth mortal day, that there were and are such days on all worlds, in all forms of life.

And as I've brought this up before, too, Death's little apartment is not her realm. The realm is only glimpsed partially once, in her second miniseries and it looks every bit as dark as a realm called 'sunless lands' would. With the exception of Destruction all the other realms are seen in detail and not just a partial glimpse. Death has that detachment from that realm, which is as much a part of her as she of it.

In short, unlike the rest of her siblings I think Death is if anything in the comics the least truly focused on duty and much as I consider the 'none of them came for me' to be a good example of Dream's self-serving hypocrisy as he'd hate and scorn and react violently to anyone that actually did and Gaiman is repeatedly on record as noting that, I see the 'our purpose is our function' line as a bit of self-serving hypocrisy in the interest of cheering up her brother. Death couldn't and doesn't take dealing with her function or being an Endless well. She walked out, she keeps trying to turn herself mortal, she will one day continue to exist but no longer be an Endless.

Thus in the end, there is a great irony here. Dream is too rigidly bound by duty to ever truly entertain the idea that he could leave and figure out how to do so short of dying. Death is too frantically eager to discard her Endless status to figure out why anyone would, given the choice, choose to remain one even if it hurts them.

[hello-im-not-a-possum]

Full Moon Studios: Once bitten, twice stupid. (Part two)

(Part One)

The music department was normally odd in comparison to the other departments, but the air in it felt different today. It was tense with the surreal secrets its workers were unwillingly keeping. Big secrets that would change the entire studio as they knew it... certainly not for better, worse would be debatable, but it would absolutely become even stranger.

Jack poured himself a cup of coffee and sat in the empty projector's booth as opposed to his "office" today. The lyricist wanted to pretend that the 'Weretoon shenanigans' as he dubbed it was all just a weird fever dream and never even think about what had happened that night. The lyricist wanted to just chalk the nightmare's vividness up to strong fumes mixed with the stress of his job and his bottled-up negative feelings toward Joey. He just needed a nice vacation, maybe someone to complain about Joey with, and a LOT of time outside the sewer.

All of those things would help, he knew he was overworked and needed the time off, he knew one of these days he'd snap if he had to endure Joey's nonsense for too long, and he knew that as much as it was his only 'sanctuary' as of late, the sewer was bad for his overall health. But deep down, he also knew it wouldn't cure him of what happened.

It wouldn't undo the fact that the exact day after it happened, he, Johnny, and Buddy met each other outside of work to talk about what had happened in the 'dream' when normally people don't share the exact same lucid dream, it didn't change the fact that the alligator-esc claw marks were still in the sewer in spite of sewer gators being nothing more than a myth, and it didn't stop Joey and Thomas from acting strangely around the three of them.

Jack tried not to feel jealous of the other two, but in the lyricist's eyes, the organist was lucky he had his own office with a door that could be locked and an instrument that was loud enough to deafen what would be his inner turmoil, and the gofer was lucky that his job kept him going place to place in the studio and hard to reliably hunt. He on the other hand had just himself, his half-written lyrics, and Thomas following him around because there was 'always' a "Leaky pipe" around him.

"...You know, there's a lot more leaks in the sewers." Jack tried to hide the nervousness in his tone with a fake chuckle. "I'd be focused on those if I were you, the one thing worse than an ink flood is a sewer water flood."

"That's true, but you're the only one who spends time in the sewers." Thomas retorted. "If more people were down there more often, then I'd take a look at them, but as it is, leaks in here are riskier. Especially in the Projectionist booth, somebody could crack their skull open if they slip on ink on the stairs."

"I see... Can't argue with that..." Jack mused as he checked his coffee before taking a sip of it. "Say, why don't I call over Wally to help? I hear you've been trying to take him under your wing-"

"No." The man replied with a suspicious amount of force in his tone before clearing his throat and trying to brush it off. "I mean, today he's working on cleaning one of the lower floors, it would be an inconvenience to both of us to pry him away from that just to have him help me with a few simple fixes."

"Allison then? It turns out she's pretty handy with a wrench."

"Hell. No." Tom protested more intensely before adjusting his collar. "...That's not even close to her job description, I can't just drag her into this when she's already busy with her real job."

"Fair enough..."

"Look, you just bury your head in your lyrics, and I'll work on my pipes. Okay? Okay."

Jack nodded and tried to concentrate.

He tried to ignore Tom, he swore to g-d he tried really hard to be patient and let the mechanic do his thing and leave him alone. But he felt trapped, he was alone with a man who seemed to underreact to the fact that his client wanted to enslave his own employees by disfiguring them beyond human recognition. He was alone with a man who was not only going along with Joey Drew's insane ideas, but also was actively trying to figure out what restored the 'successful toons' humanity in an attempt to make sure that it stopped happening.

Every time he looked up from his work, the mechanic was staring at him, and he knew it but couldn't say anything.

_________

"Nicht diese Hündin..."

Johnny was cursing under his breath as he heard the door being unlocked from the other side. A week after THAT night, he knew all of it was real; the other subjects, the weird transformation, the true purpose of Bendyland, everything! The normally aloof mechanic wouldn't shove himself into his, Jack's, or Buddy's spaces unless something was in it for him. And that 'something' was most likely whatever caused... THAT to happen.

Sure, things were mostly back to normal as he hasn't turned into a toon version of himself since the initial night, but Thomas and Joey breathing down his and presumably the other twos' backs were becoming less and less intimidating and more and more annoying. Every single day his work or his break would be interrupted by either Joey's familiar smiling face or Thomas trying really hard to play himself cool only for it to not fool anyone.

He didn't sign up for any of this chaos, he just wanted to pine over the pretty men in his department and play the songs he was given. Nothing more (unless one of the men were interested in him), nothing less.

"Evening, Mr. Heisenberg."

" Evening Mr. Conner." He cleared his throat. "I know I've said this before, but I prefer to be called 'Johnny' at work."

The mechanic shrugged in response.

"...So why are you here? The ink pipes are fine over in this spot and I doubt you have any use checking the organ pipes."

"Just checking in on you. Now I'm not singling anyone out, but lately a lot of ink has been going missing. Over twenty wells of the stuff, you wouldn't happen to have any art projects at home or anything I should know about, do you...?"

"No." The man replied blankly. "And I doubt anyone stole anything."

"...And why is that?" The mechanic raised a suspicious eyebrow.

"Because everybody's scatterbrained during these deadlines! Maybe a gofer set a requested inkwell in the wrong spot, maybe an animator knocked one off the table by accident while trying to brush a spider off, maybe a musician grabbed one when they meant to use polish... There's lots of people here and lots of mistakes that can happen..."

Johnny shook his head in annoyance, just wanting the man to leave him alone.

"You know, you don't have to cover for anybody if you don't want to. In fact, I hear Joey's upset about the loss of ink. Maybe saying something will result in a good pay raise in the future..."

The Organist gave him a funny look.

"You know, just thinking out loud..."

"Can you think out loud somewhere else? I have SEVERAL ominous song tracks to record. The Halloween special isn't going to make its own music."

"Alright, but really think about it, okay?"

Johnny rolled his eyes as Thomas left.

"Why couldn't it have been the Projectionist?" He sighed while trying to focus on his work.

___________

"Day fifteen. Putting extra doses of the current formula into the subjects' lunches and or drinks appear to have no effect on any of them."

Thomas spoke into the tape recorder, unaware that the gofer just out of sight decided to hide and let the man speak into the recording instead of making his presence known to the GENT worker to let him know he brought his toolbox over. 

"My current partners are optimistic with Jack Fain and Johnny Heisenberg. They believe that they are showing 'cartoonish' emotions, but I disagree, their 'unusual behaviors' can be easily chalked up to situational stress and the fact of the matter is that they haven't even been showing the symptoms in non-toon subjects that had the current formulas. The worst-case scenario that I can think of is that their bodies re-metamorphosized back into humans they developed some sort of antibodies to prevent further toonifications, but Allison did make a good point in the most recent discussion: There is a shared variable between the three that triggered the toonification in the first place, if we figure out what that is, we can work on recreating it."

Buddy slowly put the toolbox down, fully intending to steal the recording and take it to Jack and Johnny after it was put away.

"The rest of that discussion boiled down to guesses on what the variable could be with myself filtering out the variables that the other subjects also had in common. We also tested the newest formula that apparently turned the three into toons in the first place on other subjects, but no changes have been made to them either. Mr. Drew pointed out that a shared variable between the semi-successful is that all three of them work at the studio while none of the failed experiments work for him. Come to think of it, their prolonged exposure to the ink fumes, the ink machine, and cartoons in general might have something to do with their success, but it doesn't explain how and why they turned back and aren't re-turning into toons. However, his following statements involving 'a ritual under the sun as opposed to the full moon' make me want to discredit him. But that being said, we're considering expanding the subject pool to include more studio workers and see if that helps."

The Gofer slowly opened the toolbox and grabbed a wrench out of it, just in case he needed a makeshift weapon...

"In the meantime, Mr. Drew also wants to go over the types of toons the three were turned into, unfortunately this is made harder due to a lack of photos taken of the subjects for reference during that night, but there were several notes taken on them. According to Joey, Buddy was the most successful as his toon form bares an almost identical resemblance to Boris the Wolf while Jack and Johnny, while their success cannot be overlooked, simply aren't characters canon to the show or any of Bendy's other media forms. Jack is slightly more successful than Johnny on the grounds that the studio is much more likely to introduce a sewer gator character than an obvious cameo of the organist. More notes will be taken once we get a better understanding of this."

He clicked off the recording and set it on the table.

"Mr. Conner, I got your toolbox." Buddy stepped into the doorframe with the closed box in hand and a wrench behind his back.

"Gah! Kid! Hasn't anyone told you not to sneak up on people like that?!"

"Sorry, Mr. Conner..."

"...Say, you wouldn't happen to have been eavesdropping, were you?"

"No Sir." The gofer handed him the toolbox. "I'm... er- just practicing quiet walking for the music department! You know how Mr. Lawrence is... ...he hates loud noises- That he can't control." He bit his tongue and smiled while trying to hide his nervousness.

The mechanic nodded in complete understanding.

"Anything else, Mr. Conner?"

"No, you're dismissed."

Buddy nodded and 'left'. Waiting just out of sight for Thomas to leave...

"For Pete's sake, even when he's not actively in my face that damned Music Director is still finding ways to screw me over..." The GENT worker grumbled as he dug through the toolbox for what he was looking for. "I swear, if he wasn't such a wreck of a person already, I'd nominate him for the next test subject..."

When digging through the toolbox resulted in no wrench, he cursed under his breath and started looking under the desk and in the drawers in case it fell into a weird spot again.

"..Are you looking for this, Mr. Conner?" Buddy held out the wrench, carefully putting himself between the Mechanic and the tape recorder.

"I told you not to sneak up on me like that!" Thomas grumbled as he took the wrench.

"Sorry, Sorry!" The gofer lightly chuckled while holding out his hands. "I found it while walking back, it must've fallen out."

Thomas's eyes narrowed at the teenager, but the rattling of the pipe by his desk reminded him that he needed that wrench for a very good reason.

Buddy took his shot while the GENT worker had his back turned to him, he took the tape, quietly snuck out of the makeshift office... And cursed under his breath when his thumb grazed across the 'play' button, making Thomas's gravelly voice emit from it thus alerting the real one.

They looked at each other in a second of stunned silence before both of them ran like the wind. Both of them knew their lives depended on it, both of them knew that they'd be as good as dead if they failed.

Thomas tackled the gofer knocking the tape recorder out of his hands and Buddy in an act of raw desperation bit the man's arm as hard as he could.

Thomas let out a pained yowl as he clutched his arm while Buddy scrambled out of his grip and toward the recorder.

Thomas followed closely behind ready to tackle him again but Buddy dove down with the recorder in hand which resulted in Thomas almost tackling the wall.

Instead, he caught himself just in time and ran for the teen who abandoned his original destination and was now booking it towards the nearest broom closet.

Buddy locked himself inside the closet seconds before Thomas caught him and the GENT worker couldn't help but laugh, the idiot locked himself inside a closest with no way out! All he has to do is wait for the little twerp to come out and he's got the tape back!

So that's exactly what Thomas did, he sat down outside the closet and waited for Buddy to come out. He could be a patient man and worst-case scenario; he could always grab the keys off of Wally.

As he waited, the adrenaline faded out of his system, and he couldn't help but notice that his arm was in a lot of pain. As he looked it over, the mark itself had sharp, wolf-like tooth marks with a human shaped bite, and the blood pooling around the wound was starting to turn black. He shook his head as he wrapped it up, just his imagination and some ink...

[abovexhorizons]

Anonymous asked:

Your father will get her back from you Isa. Nowhere is safe even if you think it is. The walls have ears, the streets have eyes.

We will find your safe havens, your contacts, your so called friends, we will see just how much they value this disgusting bond you say is friendship, no bond can last when money talks, or more persuasive methods must be employed.

So you can run, run and hide, that little fox minx will be returned to your father soon enough. He will get what he is owed. And your punishment will come. You will pay for your treachery.

Each word was a dagger, dipped in the finest poison one could find; each syllable a jab at the heart, every pause giving cause for concern.

She'd had nightmares about this; pleasant dreams turning into the darkest terrors that they'd be found, that he'd still be looking for them. That crossing the mountain and escaping to the far-reaches of the Estal Republic and beyond wouldn't save them.

That no matter what she did, that no matter how hard she'd try, Isa would always be found wanting. Was it a cruel trick, played by the Gods? Was it fate, binding her back to her home, that'd make her incapable of fulfilling her task, her mission, her goal?

"You're wrong!"

Isa's words were slung forth like steel, the weight of her conviction carried on them. She had to believe that this would work; that there was no way they'd ever be caught and captured. The sheer idea of the abuse he'd inflict on them both was enough to cause a crack in her soul of steel.

That he wouldn't be able to weave his darkness back into their hearts, minds, bodies and souls. That Gylbard wouldn't get his prized toy back in his possession.

"Y-You're wrong..."

Though the more she thought about it, the further into dread she fell; eyes once full of hope softening into clouded judgement as she thought about the implications of what they were saying. Of what they meant.

Her hand shakily gripped the hilt of her sword to steady herself; mentally and physically. Isa felt like she needed an anchor, something to keep her mind from dissociating the trauma that came with thinking about her past.

About what they did to Rika; herself included.

"You're... Wrong. My friends wouldn't give up on me; on us, on this dream. We all share a desire to see Rika returned home safely-- why can't you see that? Why would you bid her suffer more? Hasn't she been through enough?"

Almost at the edge of tears, Isa could only hold herself together by a thread; a dry gulp of lumpy saliva the only moisture her mouth could muster.

Her mind raced, trying to piece together an argument to get this person to be quiet; to get him to leave her thoughts all-together. She'd promised not to resort to violence first herself; a vow she would not break now.

But, perhaps it was for the better? Perhaps, if this person died, they'd be safe. If she killed everyone that opposed them first, then by right, Rika and herself would emerge victorious.

But where did she draw the line? Was it just people that antagonized her, or was it those that refused a barter? Perhaps people that hit on either of them, or men that looked at Rika like a fleshlight?

It was too much to consider at once; her frown tugging into a grimace as she tried to muster the courage to argue back.

"You're wrong about one thing, though. I will never let Rika fall back into my fathers hands, no matter what; this, I solemnly vow with all my heart. They can use me, abuse me, disembowel me in front of the entire world for all I care; but I will never let harm come to Rika."

It was a strange boost of confidence, as if the words carried greater weight than they truly did. Isa was just one woman; this she knew.

"I will endure the exile, and I will find her peace at the end of our journey. You cannot stop us. You cannot stop me."

[darkeninganon]

Heyo! Back at it again with Ghost Dream (Gream). He has a little weirdness happen in this chapter, mostly because my brain just yeeted off to Pluto. I don’t think I need any Trigger warnings, I mean... Tommy gets a little shaken up emotionally, but beyond that, this is a pretty safe chapter.

Gream smiled, setting up the final blocks to complete the diorama on the table. It had taken many days, but finally Gream had completed it, with the help of Tubbo, Ranboo, and Tommy. It was an exact replica of the server. Well, with a few changes. Some places had no walls, and the building in place of the prison was nothing more than an obsidian box surrounded by red and orange string. There were also the dolls, almost exact replicas of the people of the SMP.

Almost.

Tomothy had a blue sweater on, instead of whatever the real Tommy was wearing. William was grey-skinned, had no white streak, and was wearing a yellow sweater. Prezbo was wearing a classy suit, reflecting his position of power. Lethe was wearing a cloak and bandages over his eyes. Gream even made one like himself, naming it "Nightmare", it lacked a mask though. He was not about to try and figure out how to make a doll-sized mask. There were so many more as well: A centaur-like creature named "The Warden" sat on top of the prison box, a tall cloaked figure standing in a sandy area along with many other smaller ones, including a fox man; most notably was a figure in a bloody suit with crooked eyes, a pink scar slashing vertically through one, a beanie, a gold tooth, and a square smile. "Fangs", "Raev", "Sir"....

Gream shook his head, fear and dread creeping up his spine and making his stomach roll. He sighed, setting the dolls down after inspecting them. Raev was his favorite in the group; Gream had given him bright orange hair and a smile, plus a cute green-black suit. It clashed with the hair and fur, but Gream didn't mind, it was kind of cute in a way.

Gream continued to just stare at the little scene, sitting cross-legged as he took it all in. All of these characters were related, their stories tied together in some way. Gream reached over, pulling Nightmare from the little brick house he stood on and placing the doll in the cell The Warden stood on. That was where Nightmare belonged.

Gream spun to look at the door as the floor creaked, Tommy looming in the doorway, staring at the ghost.

"Hey there. Your table is finally done?" The teen asked, stepping into the room and over to the table. He wouldn't deny, it made him nervous; it was a replica of the SMP with New L'Manburg, the oldest version of the Community House, and the maximum security cell of the prison, plus Snowchester and Las Nevadas. It was like the server had been spliced between several time periods. "Looks good."

Gream looked back at the table, nodding. "Thanks. I also made the dolls." Gream motioned to them. He noticed Tommy tense, specifically when looking at the one in the prison. "That's Nightmare. He belongs in jail."

Tommy knew Dream was... quiet, to put it lightly, but he had never seen Gream do the same. "Yeah, and why's that?" he asked, sitting next to the ghost.

"He did a lot of bad things." Gream grabbed the doll, pulling it from the "jail" to look at it more.

"Well... sometimes people do bad things for a good reason-"

"That doesn't make it okay. Nightmare did a lot of bad things. He wanted to have a family... He wanted Tomothy to be his little brother, but Tomothy chose William, and William was a megalomaniacle dick to everyone, even Nightmare. But then William died and things got better." Gream placed Nightmare back in the cell. "But... William managed to convince Tomothy that Nightmare was evil, and Nightmare saw people drifting apart because he gave Prezbo a test, and Prezbo failed it." He grabbed the two dolls, holding them close. He then placed Prezbo back in the town he had built, placing Tomothy in a bare plains-like area with wooden fort-like walls around him. "Prezbo kicked Tomothy out of their home because Nightmare got mad and threatened the town. Then, Nightmare tried to... twist? Corrupt? No, neither of those words work..."

Tommy's breath hitched, and it took a moment for him to speak; "Manipulate?" His voice pitched up. Fuck, he really had to get that under control. It was such a tell.

Gream looked to Tommy, nodding solemnly. "Yeah. Nightmare tried to manipulate Tomothy into liking him. Like William had done when alive. Instead, Tomothy just hated him more." Gream picked up another doll, rolling it around. "Then, Nightmare asked for Lethe's help. A favor. Lethe needed to protect the server, but he had to forget everything unless there was actual danger. A True threat. They cast some... spell or something, and Lethe forgot." Gream placed the doll in the area that looked like Snowchester, and now Tommy could see who it looked like: Ranboo. "there is a way to reverse it, but... I don't know if Lethe knows it."

Tommy watched, listened. It was so obvious who was meant to be who. It was like Gream... Wait... "Hey, so... you said Nightmare wanted a family, right?"

"Yeah."

"So... he made everyone think he was evil... and now he's in jail, yeah?"

"That's right. Mostly. He is in jail."

"Well... did... I mean, how did he get in there?"

Tommy watched as Gream seemed to think, staying silent and still before grabbing "Nightmare" from his cell. "Well... everyone teamed up against him. But... even though he'd never see anyone again, he was happy."

"Why?"

"Because, they were finally a family." Gream placed the little doll back in the cell. His voice was soft, wistful.

Tommy nodded. "Pardon me." He stood and left, Gream nodding to show he had heard. Tommy barely made it to the stairs, clinging to the railing as he finally broke. Gream was... He wasn't just playing out his memories, he was sharing what he felt and his thoughts at the time. Dream was... Jealous? No, that didn't excuse his actions, at all! He was still worse than... But... No, he wasn't. Dream was just more physical, less mental.

Tommy took out his communicator, sending a message to Tubbo and Ranboo: We need to talk. Meet me at Snowchester. Bring the others Ranboo. Tommy grit his teeth. He couldn't let Wilbur near Gream. Wilbur would see Gream as an easy mark, and likely a way into Las Nevadas. Sure, seeing Dream's version of everyone on the SMP was unnerving, but it was even more unnerving that he has so perfectly replicated Quackity and Las Nevadas. Quackity who was likely the reason Gream even existed in the first place, and also someplace Dream had never seen. Gream probably didn't even know he had done that.

Tommy swung open the front door, hoping to meet the others right at the tunnel; nearly smacking right into Wilbur. Fuck.

"Tommy! There you are! Now, look, I know me and Quackity were a bit intense-"

"Not now Wilbur."

"Okay, but hear me out! We need so much more stone, and more importantly, we need to team up with-"

"I have more important things to worry about here."

"It'll just take a moment! We team up with Tubbo and Ranboo and let them expand into our land right by Las Nevadas, and-"

"I'll talk to you about it later, alright?"

"Alright, but real quick, We also need to come up with a plan to get Dream out of Prison-" Tommy tensed, unseen by Wilbur; "Because, you know, he has that book that brought me back. God, imagine how useful that'll be! No more death ever! We can fight for eternity and no one can stop-"

Wilbur's head was snapped to the side. Tommy had punched him. "He's not a fucking tool you can just lock up once you're done using him! What the fuck man?!" Wilbur groaned, rubbing his jaw as he slowly turned to look at Tommy, clearly wanting to say something, but too shocked to do so. "You will... never get the revive book, or the power it holds... Dream is... I hope Sam kills you again." Tommy turned away from Wilbur, storming over to the tunnel. He knew Wilbur was following silently behind, confused and desperate to say something, to get to the bottom of why Tommy just punched him.

Tommy stood by the tunnel, furious. Sure, Dream was a dick, and everything would have been solved if Dream had just talked to Tommy, but at the same time... Asking Gream more about Nightmare would shed some light. But he needed everyone else to show up first, to see what Gream was doing. Tommy tapped his foot, staring at the sky as they waited for everyone else.

Ranboo burst from the tunnel, trident in hand, panicked expression, netherite on. "What's going on?!" Someone crashed into the poor half enderman, causing him to make that distinct noise of an enderman in pain as they crashed to the ground.

"Shit! Sorry-" Phil couldn't complete his apology as the rest on the Syndicate tumbled out of the hyper tunnel, crashing into each other.

Tommy snorted, trying his hardest not to laugh as the four people untangled themselves. Ah yes, the most fearsome group on the server, couldn't navigate a hyper tunnel. Tommy lost it as Tubbo came speeding out of the tunnel with a scream, crashing into his platonic husband and causing Ranboo to let out another pained enderman noise. Something about Ranboo yelling like an enderman was just so funny to Tommy, surely he was cursing in the language of the End.

"What did you want to talk to us about, Tommy?" Niki cut in, her usually calm voice cold, snapping Tommy out of his laughing fit.

"Right, uh... Let’s walk and talk, yeah? It's a little tough to explain." Tommy lead the group to the mansion, casting a quick glare at Wilbur. "So, you all know about Gream, yeah? Of course you do, anyways, he was building and working on a table to play games with when it comes to spending time with Big Mike, since neither are really allowed to leave due to safety." Tommy glanced back, making sure everyone was following along; Techno and Wilbur looked completely lost, while Niki looked confused but was clearly listening. "So, the thing about this table, more importantly the dolls he made for the table, is that they're... well... This is going to sound really weird, but it’s everyone and everywhere on the server. You’ll see." Tommy pointed to the door, and everyone crowded around to peer into the room.

Gream sat by the table, looming over it. Even with the cursed mask on, it was clear he was concentrating hard on something. The table and dolls had his full attention. Tommy motioned for everyone to linger back, hiding just outside the door-frame; before he walked in, he let out a quiet cough to not startle Gream. The ghost looked up at the noise, spotting Tommy and nodding at the teen.

"Hey Gream. I... actually had a question for you about that uh... Nightmare character." Tommy carefully walked up to the table, pulling the doll from the cell.

"Well, ask then."

Tommy smiled nervously, fidgeting with the toy. "Well... You said he did bad things because he was angry... jealous, actually. Um, why didn't he just talk it out?" It was such a huge risk, and for all Tommy knew, this could make Gream angry and have the ghost snap like he did back at his house.

Gream was silent, perking up as if thinking about something. Finally, he sighed. "Nightmare... Nightmare can't figure out his emotions... and he doesn't like talking about them... Someone... Hurt him once, someone he loved. It’s something I understand, but... you prefer talking about things, right?"

Tommy was quiet, frozen. "What?"

"I..." Gream pulled on the edges of his mask, a puddle of acid began to form under him. "Ever since the incident with Jack and Puffy I... Tommy, you're not telling me the truth, are you? No one is!"

Tommy flinched. He could hear netherite armor being thrown on behind him, but he took a breath, relaxing as he placed the doll back in the cell. "You're right. I haven't been honest. But-" Tommy held his hand up as Gream glared at him; "But I have my reasons. Nightmare... He did bad things for a good reason... He knew he'd go into jail for it, didn't he?"

Gream was silent, thinking again before nodding.

"That's why he asked Lethe for a favor. Well... People do bad things for good reasons all the time. I'm... withholding information from you for some very good reasons. It's not just for your safety, it's also for me. The things I'm keeping from you... they're things I don't like talking about, ever." Tommy sighed, running a hand through his hair. It sucked having to try to explain it, but now... Now they'll get to see things from Dream's view... something that no one was interested in before-

"Dream died?!"

Tommy cringed as he was reminded that Wilbur was there. "Yes, Dream died. Congradu-"

Wilbur shoved Tommy out of the way, grabbing Gream's hand and shaking it vigorously. "It's amazing to meet you! You and I were such- Oh man, we had so much fun together! I was... What was the word again? Oh yeah! I was your vassal! You helped me blow-"

Tommy shoved Wilbur away. "Alright, enough! Leave the poor guy alone!" Tommy stood between Wilbur and the ghost, Gream didn't need to know that he helped destroy L’Manburg or was a traitor or anything like that. Wait... Tommy shook his head. Dream was never really on their side.

"You... I don't like you."

"I'm.... What? What do you-"

"You're a megalomaniac aren't you?" Gream crossed his arms, glaring at Wilbur from behind his mask. "You... You were... Why do I hate you?" Gream turned away, pacing around until he looked to the table. He grabbed Nightmare and William, setting them up along with Tomothy on a hill. He stared at them, gently fiddling with Nightmare as he stayed quiet.

Wilbur went to go say something, but Tommy stopped him, staring intently at the ghost.

"You could have been a good leader... But I don't want to be a good leader. I hate you so much, I'm going to be worse than ram man... I will tear this place apart because I hate you... Tomothy gave up everything and you gave up nothing, you are going to get him killed..."

Gream removed Tomothy, setting him up with Prezbo on top of an obsidian wall. "Can't we all just be a family... No, you're the bad guy... but why?" Gream stopped, picking up Nightmare and holding him close. "But why?"

[charliedawn]

The Trial part 3 : Freedom, Confrontation and Nightmares

(Corinthian was trapped in a cage for years as he was deemed too dangerous by Morpheus, too unpredictable. But, your screams and suffering were enough to break him free. Here is his story. Also, Morpheus is kind of a baddy. Just warning you.)

The Corinthian had neglected his duties towards some of the dreamers to achieve a project he had set his mind on for a while. This decision led Morpheus to question the Nightmare's loyalty to the Dreaming as he kept making trips from the realm of the living to the Dreaming.

He was building something, something that Morpheus feared would endanger the dreamers. He had fallen deaf to his master's commands and seemed now only interested in finishing the project he had set all of his efforts and hopes on.

"Soon..I promise that nothing will ever break us apart. You and I will wander the world and no one will ever be able to stop us..We will be free, Y/N. I promise.", he muttered to himself as his finger traced the elegant pattern carved on the ring he had been working on.

Corinthian was many things, and particularly a perfectionist.

Every nightmare he ever created, every crime he ever committed, every little detail that was his doing was a testimony of great craftsmanship unequaled by any of Dream's creatures. He prided himself in that fact, to the point of vanity really. But, as one of Dream's children, that was to be expected.

It would soon be finished and then, he'd be able to offer you everything you wanted. He could already imagine a life free of all boundaries and order. A world where he could spend the rest of his days with you..The only being in the universe who had seen the true beauty of his work and accepted him when Dream hadn't.

Dream saw him as a failure where you saw him as a success.

He couldn't wait to show you what your fear and his hands had succeeded in creating.

But then, a storm seemed to struck at his doorstep and Corinthian quickly hid his present in a box, tugging it in the secret compartiment of his desk.

Just in time as his door shattered into pieces and here he came, invading his home with all of his glorious presence. Corinthian should run. He knew he should..But, he wouldn't let Morpheus find the ring. It wasn't his to hold nor keep.

"It is over, Corinthian. I have been more than patient with you. But, you have crossed a line. You will return to the land of the Dreaming this instant.."

Corinthian wasn't fooled. He knew what was coming..He would probably be punished and sent to the dark place where no creation ever came back. He closed his eyes and thought of you. You didn't even know him..You had only heard his voice in a dream. If he was to leave now, he knew there was no chance you would ever meet. He would be forgotten. His most important and profound dread.

But, if it would save you, then he would gladly follow him to Hell. However, he refused to go, kneeling in front of this so-called god..He stood up and he could see Morpheus' eyes widen in surprise at the unexpected act of defiance.

And to make matters worse, Corinthian dared laugh at the astonishment of his maker.

"Or what ?", he challenged him and Morpheus' eyes sparkled with a thousand stars' fury. His own creation. Daring opposing him..Preposterous. Unacceptable.

"Corinthian...Do not challenge me.", he warned, but Corinthian did not recoil in front of his master's dark and powerful aura.

"There will come a day..when you will no longer be my master. And I, your abomination.", Corinthian spat hatefully.

Morpheus' eyebrows slightly creased at the clear affront. Corinthian clicked his tongues and even though he knew what awaited him, he didn't regret nor attempted to take back his words.

With a flick of his wrist, Morpheus turned his body into sand and Corinthian could only close his eyes, thinking of the present he hadn't yet given you.

His only regret.

He wished he didn't have such hate for his maker. He wished he didn't have three mouths that had only ever opened to disagree with him. He wished he could have said goodbye to you.

But, it was too late.

He crumbled to the ground in a pile of sand, Morpheus retrieving his soul among the star dust. He would let Lucienne take care of him.

Nowadays :

When the Corinthian woke up, he blinked several times before tilting his head to the side, noticing the very vivid red curtains first.

When Desire dramatically stepped in with a small seductive grin on their face, he knew that his escape hadn't been a charitable act of good will..

He didn't mind though. He would kill anyone, as long as he would see you again. His little dreamer. He wondered how much time had passed ? Had you become a woman ? Were you old and wrinkly ? Or, were you...? His smile faltered for a second at the possibility that you were lost to Time forever.

"Tell me, Corinthian. Is it true you are the scariest and most awful Nightmare ever created by Dream ?"

There was interest in his voice and even though Corinthian wanted to correct Desire that there was nothing awful about his nightmares..He bit down his tongue and only nodded.

"I'd like to think myself so..", he responded truthfully and Desire's eyes lit up at his affirmation as he clapped his hands together excitedly.

"Great. Because..Let's say..I am in dire need of a nightmare right now."

Corinthian frowned and huffed a laugh at the Endless' overconfidence.

"And—pray tell—why would I help you ?"

Desire's smile didn't falter and he leaned forward—as if he was about to utter a secret in the Nightmare's ear that would change everything..

"I'm sure you will accept once you know who I intend to make a nightmare for. Someone I believe you know ? I saw you briefly in her head. You used to be her Nightmare. And I want you to make her fear Morpheus. Fear his very existence, to the point the girl doesn't want to follow him anywhere. Once the task done, I'll let you go. Deal ?"

The Corinthian's brow furrowed at Desire's words. Someone who knew him ? It couldn't be you, could it ? You had never actually met. He had made sure to hide you..So even Morpheus wouldn't be able to find you.

"That girl..What is her name ?", he asked and Desire was all too happy to answer.

"Y/N..Y/N L/N."

The Corinthian's eyes widened at the familiar name and Desire smirked knowing.

"You know her, dont you ?"

He didn't reply and only stood up to leave.

He had a job to do..

Desire watched him leave with a small smile, thinking he had succeeded in finding a way to get rid of you..The Corinthian was ruthless. He would stop at nothing to find you.

And in a sense, he was right.

But what he hadn't counted on was—Corinthian had never been so amused in his whole life. He had been rescued from his prison by none other than lord Desire themselves and offered to be part of some trial that would—not only cause Morpheus' demise, but help him find his little dreamer.

Y/N.

Now, that was a name he hadn't heard in ages, especially during the past X years he had been trapped in Lucienne's old dusty office drawer..He remembered you. Of course.

The little dreamer who liked being afraid.

He hummed to himself, images of fantastic night terrors and sounds of beautiful screams of pure unadulterated fear appeared in his mind. He had enjoyed every second of it, even more when he had seen you fight to keep your nightmares alive..keeping him with you until the very end.

He would find you. And undo the damage Morpheus and the other Endless had done.

You were perfect..Why had they decided to tear apart something so perfect as you ?

He had spent years crafting and forming you into the pure innocent being that you were, and not even a few years later, the Endless had decided to meddle with things they did not understand.

Typical.

But, he would have to play their game for now. Desire thought he would be able to break you, as he was the most talented Nightmare ever created by Dream.

He was wrong.

All he had done by setting him free, was make sure he would be reunited with you..His perfect angel of darkness. He smiled before raising up the ring he had been working on with a small smile. He had thought of every possible way to deliver you from the fate that was yours. Now, he would be able to protect you and do everything in his power to keep you from harm.

He had heard your desperate pleas for mercy and even though a Nightmare couldn't feel, the sounds of your screams of agony were loud enough for him to hear and grit his teeth at..

The Corinthian would find you, and he would make sure to remind you that those screams were only for his ears to enjoy.

In your bedroom :

Corinthian had his hand clamped firmly on your mouth, but there was a certain softness in his gesture. He didn't want you to alert Maria or Morpheus, but he had no intention to hurt you.

"I'm going to let you go, but I need you to keep that pretty mouth of yours shut for a few minutes. Can you do that for me ?", he asked slowly and studied your face for any sign of non-compliance. But, you quickly nodded and—to his greatest satisfaction—he could see in your eyes that you had no intention to disobey.

He released you and you stayed stunned for a few seconds, staring at him intently until he felt the need to look away.

"Not who you wanted to see, heh ?", he chuckled half-heartedly and you felt your heart squeeze..Corinthian. The name came to you immediately and for some reason unbeknownst to you, you knew who he was.

Your eyes filled with tears and Corinthian was about to ask what was wrong until you did something truly unexpected.

You pulled him into a hug and held him closer than ever, his comforting smell reminding you of the past and of years of happiness..Corinthian seemed surprised at first, but quickly returned it with a smile.

He knew it..You were still in there. His little believer.

"I have missed you..", you said—your voice muffled by the fabric of his shirt. He was your last memory, the last thread of your old life..Everything was gone, but he was here.

Corinthian was the closest you ever had to a real friend as a child, and even though you had never actually seen him in person, his presence had filled your mind with the most wondrous nightmares for years. They had helped shape you to face the real world and you had never understood why he had left so soon..He was an important part of your life—and had left a hole in you. But, being in his presence filled you with relief.

But, you were still wary about the reason of his suspicious reappearance.

"Why did you come back ?", you asked with a hint of distrust in your voice and pulled away.

Corinthian should have expected it, but he still mourned the physical contact. You really had grown into a cautious young woman, huh ? However, he would make it all better, he promised as he raised your hand to his mouth.

He kissed the back it and you felt his lips curl into a smile against your skin.

"Well..I am here to offer you this."

You frowned in incomprehension as to what he meant by 'this', until you noticed the ring he had discreetly placed on your finger while kissing your hand..It felt unlike anything you had ever worn. It was smooth, but so light you knew it was of no human material..

"What is it ?", you muttered in awe and held up the ring to the light to get a closer look at it and Corinthian smiled as he answered.

"Our freedom..I have spent years crafting it. From your fear and my own essence. See. I suspected people would come looking for you, so I made sure to hide you from sight. But, as I wasn't around. It eventually wore off. But, with this ? They'll be unable to touch you, even Morpheus. And your powers will help me stay clear of him. All you have to do now, is say yes my little believer.."

He extended his hand towards you and waited impatiently for you to take it, already imagining all the things you would accomplish together. He had been trapped for so long and even though years had separated the both of you, he couldn't help the lingering affection he had for you to resurface.

Corinthian wasn't a sentimental. But, he had come to the realization that being without friends made you vulnerable.

He had learned it from Morpheus and his own mistake..Facing his master without you.

You were two peas in a pod. Two sides of the same coin. The hopeful believer and the lost traitor. He knew you better than anyone, had seen your very first nightmare and your last. He knew that for his plan to work, you had to be on board. You needed each other and Corinthian wanted to live as much as you did.

You stared at his open hand and sighed in defeat before slipping your hand in his.

Sorry, Morpheus..

He offered you a wide grin before pulling you against him and you both fell backwards across the window. You screamed while Corinthian only chuckled and you both landed in his car—unscathed.

He loved seeing you afraid, but he would contain his excitement for now.

However, he didn't expect you to clung to him so desperately. Your whole being trembling and he realized that he might have gone a bit far for your first time reuniting after so many years. He was about to apologize when you surprised him by throwing your head back with laughter.

Out of all the things you had experimented over the past few days, this little scare was almost refreshing.

"Well..That never happened before..", Corinthian commented with a slight raise of his eyebrows and couldn't help but find your laugh satisfying..People never laughed at Nightmares. They ran, cried and even squirmed. Even when they were awake, they cursed their nightmares and wished for dreams.

But, you didn't. You had always woken up with a smile on your face, understanding the lessons he taught and relishing in the the simple fact that you were alive.

His nightmares weren't there to frighten purposefully, but to teach about fear and to love life which was so precious.

He gently cradled your face, memorizing every inch with his hands as he had no eyes to rely on..He knew you had beautiful eyes. He had stolen them many times in your dreams..He gently traced your eyelids and you let him.

You had never expected Corinthian to be such a gentle soul.

However, the moment quickly passed and he gently nudged you.

"Could you please move, sweetheart ? Not that I mind the current position, but it wouldn't really be practical for driving..", he explained and your cheeks were set aflame in embarrassment as you scooted off him promptly.

He smiled again before sitting down correctly and starting the engine. There would be a time when he would take his sweet time with you, but not now. You were far from safety and he would make sure none of the Endless ever find you..You were not a gift for them. You had never been. He would insure you get as much fun from this odd collaboration as possible.

"Where are we going ?", you asked curiously with your eyes following the different landscapes rolling out in front of you..You had never been to the sea before, as the other sisters usually liked to keep to themselves and allowed themselves to only go as far as the nearby village.

"On a road trip. You wanted to get rid of Morpheus ? Well, here you go. I am all too happy to oblige."

You thought back about Morpheus and wondered if he would come looking for you ? Would he miss you ? Corinthian noticed your thoughtful expression and then your attire. You were dressed all in black and even though you had left the covent months ago, you still dressed like a nun. He sighed before setting his eyes back on the road, stopping in front of a mall.

"But first, shopping is in order, my poor dear. Did no one tell you that Sister Bernadette's trend has died out a long time ago ?", he joked and you frowned in confusion before looking down at your long charcoal-color dress and before you could reply, Corinthian had already left the car.

You huffed loudly before finally getting out as well and jogging after him.

Once in the mall, your eyes widened at all the shops and colorful items in display. They all looked so tempting and Corinthian smiled knowingly before entering the first clothes shop you encountered.

You hopped from one item to another—they all seemed so lovely—and were mesmerized by the many choices available while Corinthian was happily following after you, glancing vaguely at each article with faint interest. None of them seemed to be just the right fit..But, you still found a dozen to try on. However, before you could change and try them on, you read the price tags and froze.

Even if you were to dilapidate all the money you had left, you wouldn't have enough for one single article—unless for the gloves. You sighed before turning around, only to be met with Corinthian's torso. He tilted his head quizzically at you, eyeing the articles you had chosen—still in your hands.

"Why are you returning them ? You haven't even tried them on yet..", he asked and you looked away—not willing to share your financial difficulties with him..But, he guessed either way.

"Is it about the money ? Don't worry about it. I'm paying. I'm rich. Well, human currencies wise. Just get what you need and we'll be on our merry way."

It didn't make you feel better and you started fidgeting nervously, one question on your mind. You had seen everything humankind could do and were willing to do to get what they want—this Nightmare must had a reason as well.

"Why would you do this for me ? The ring ? The clothes ? All this ?"

He stopped dead in his tracks and you could feel something shift in him as he turned around just enough for you to see his sad smile.

"For nothing else than your undying friendship, my dear..", he replied truthfully and your eyes widened a little at the confession. A Nightmare. A creature of fear and deceit..wished for your companionship ?

He hesitated before adding.

"And a little bit of your powers. Just so I may not die when Morpheus finds us. Pretty please ?", he laughed when you rolled your eyes at his mocking final plea, but you couldn't help a smile from gracing your face.

You were used to people seeking for your powers by now, but it was the first time it was from a friend, and someone who had only been kind to you so far..True, he was a Nightmare. But, his nightmares told of a truth which you had been faced with too many times. You could wake up from his nightmares, while you couldn't wake up from life..

You laughed and even though Corinthian was a Nightmare and had no reason to appreciate it, your laugh made him feel better in so many ways..He knew true believers had an effect on creatures such as himself, they provoked a change in them. He was inexplicably pulled by you and that essence you possessed.

You disappeared in the cabin and Corinthian's smile twitched for a second. You were the only human he had ever created a true link with, you were his only exception..

He used to think of his wish for his nightmares to be loved as much as they were feared, recognized as masterpieces in their own rights..But everywhere he went, he was met with deep disappointment. No one saw the art behind them, the time spent on details and his dedication to his work.

But, you had. You had never hated his nightmares. You were thankful for his ideas and marveled at their complexity..His little dreamer.

He sat down in a leather chair and waited for you..He didn't have to wait for long though as you finally stepped out and Corinthian didn't move for a few seconds, stunned by the angelic apparition before him..You wore a d/c dress, sandals and sunglasses which oddly matched his.

Was it even possible to be more than perfect ? Maybe so..

Corinthian pondered as his thoughts wandered to the hopes that, you had chosen that outfit for him, to impress him..Because you cared about his opinion. No..Because you cared about him.

He shook his head and smiled bitterly at his own foolish thoughts. He had better things to do than waste his thoughts on fruitless desires..

"Well..What do you think ?", you asked after a moment, worrying slightly at the Corinthian's sudden muteness. Didn't he like it ? As you hadn't had a lot of fashion icons or representations growing up, you knew very little of what was considered appropriate and had opted for a style close to the Corinthian's. You hoped he wouldn't mind.

If you only knew..

Corinthian's jaw twitched and he remained silent for a second or two before scratching his chin in false reflexion. Corinthian usually didn't like copycats, but he would make an exception for you.

He actually felt quite honored you would choose him as a model.

"You are a sight to behold. Who knew you hid all this under there ? You look absolutely ravishing..", he offered you a smile that he hoped would appear friendly rather than flirtatious, but he couldn't be sure..

You nodded—visibly satisfied—before stepping inside to change back, but Corinthian grabbed your hand before you could and led you towards the exit.

"Corinthian ! My clothes are still back there !"

"You won't need them anymore.."

"We haven't paid !"

"We'll be fine..", he replied stubbornly.

You didn't make three steps outside that two men stopped you, looking at you with a slight frown and asked for the receipt. You sighed.

Trust the Nightmare they said..It'll be fun they said..

However, Corinthian didn't blink and only slightly tilted his sunglasses down his nose so both men could see his eyes..or his lack—thereof. Both men whitened at the sight and took a step back, frozen in place while Corinthian seemed as composed as ever as he placed his sunglasses back in their rightful place.

"Nice chatting with you, gentlemen. But, I'm afraid we must be on our way."

He then walked away—unbothered by the whole ordeal and smiled playfully at you. You couldn't help but be sorry for the men who looked as if they had seen the grim reaper..

"Now, how about you and I go to the beach ?"

The proposition took you by surprise and you snapped your head back up to look at Corinthian.

"The...beach ?"

You didn't understand..Why the beach ? He seemed to read your mind and draped his arm over your shoulders.

"Because I think we deserve a break from the city..Don't you ?"

He released you to get inside his car and was about to start the engine when he frowned, as you hadn't followed him inside.

"Corinthian..Are you going to keep hurting people ?", you asked concerned, your eyes cast downwards and Corinthian's smile twitched. He could lie and tell you that he wouldn't hurt or kill anyone ever again, lie about his true nature and the desires he felt to draw blood and see life living their eyes..But, he knew you would look right through him and find the truth yourself.

"I am a Nightmare..Hurting people is part of who I am."

You frowned in disapproval, but when Corinthian opened the door, you had no choice but to set aside your morals to sit down next to him. You were gaining back your love for living creatures, which was good considering everything you had gone through..It meant recovery. Corinthian needed you in your best shape if he was to even approach the possibility of feeding on your essence.

He knew it would take time—but, he was willing to wait.

You shook your head as he drove away, memories of that dead doctor who had tried to help you all those years back returned to you.

"You killed him..Didn't you ?", you asked knowingly, but still willing to hear it from him.

Corinthian didn't answer. He didn't need to.

You sighed and tilted your head backwards, thinking back to the times when things seemed so simple..When there was no Morpheus or Dream land..When it used to be you and your nightmares.

Corinthian mistook your silence for judgment and tried to soften the edge of the news.

"If it makes you feel any better ? I tried to stay in the boundaries of dreams, but couldn't. I wanted more. Morpheus started noticing. I also tried to take you away with me. But, Morpheus wouldn't allow it and making the ring took too much time. The time it was finished, it was too late."

Your eyes widened slightly at the revelation. Corinthian seemed to truly repent the way you had left things. It made your stomach queasy and your heartbeat race in your chest..Corinthian cared. Corinthian cared about you..You didn't know how to feel about it.

He smiled at you and even though you couldn't see his eyes, you knew it was genuine. You blushed and turned away swiftly, afraid he might learn to interpret the rhythm of your heart by how hard it was beating.

He chuckled softly before patting your head affectionately.

"You really haven't changed.."

You wondered what he meant by that ? You had changed in so many ways over the course of the last month, it was a miracle you could still stand..

Fortunately, the road to the beach wasn't that long, and you arrived to the coast earlier than anticipated.

When you arrived, your breath hitched upon the sight of the sea, the one you had never seen other than in dreams. Actually, you had seen it only once with Morpheus, when he had purposefully threw you in.

You were excited and smiled widely, even dared pass your head through the car window and letting the wild cold air hit your face. It felt glorious.

However, Corinthian suddenly turned abruptly, which led to you stumbling backwards and the back of your head hitting his thigh.

"~Oopsies.", he said in a sing-song voice and chuckled.

He then looked down at you with a small amused smile and you frowned at him, before thinking of later retribution..Was Corinthian ticklish ? Maybe not..But it wouldn't hurt to try, right ?

You waited until the car had come to a halt before raising your expert fingers to touch all the sensitive body parts you knew about. He was surprised at first, but couldn't help the small giggle from leaving his throat. But, it wasn't because he was ticklish.

"Really now ? Aren't you the little vindictive creature ?", he taunted.

You huffed loudly in discontent at the obvious lack of reaction before crossing your arms over your chest sulkily and looking away. Corinthian shook his head before opening the door on his side and walked around to open yours, like a gentleman.

"If Madam would do me the honors ?", he asked with that subtle raise of the corner of his lips of his and you rolled your eyes playfully before putting your hand in his. He smiled widely before pulling you out effortlessly and locking arms with you.

He led you to the beach and the moment your feet hit the sand, you took a deep breath and felt alive..The soft sea breeze filling your lungs and making you forget everything for just a moment. Corinthian stayed back as you dipped your feet in the water and shivered at the cold contact. But, you painted such a peaceful picture, he didn't dare disturb you and waited until you opened your eyes before suggesting.

"Say..Do you want to swim ?"

You turned around and frowned in incomprehension.

"Swim ? But I don't.."

He made a swimsuit magically appear and your eyes widened while he chuckled at your bewildered expression.

"You are wearing the ring, which means your powers are being absorbed by me, allowing me to use my powers outside of the realm of the Dreaming. Actually, I am now a free being with no link to Morpheus whatsoever. All thanks to you."

Your eyebrows shot up in surprise at the news and even though you were happy for your friend, you couldn't help but be worried about Morpheus. He must be lost and upset by your sudden disappearance..You started fidgeting with the ring on your finger and Corinthian noticed. He didn't like it. He placed his hand upon yours and shook his head, his posture becoming a little more menacing as he loomed over you to command in barely a whisper.

"Do not get the ring off under any circumstances..It would make them find us.", he explained sternly and you stilled for a moment before nodding meekly in agreement.

Morpheus had lied and abused of your trust. You wouldn't make the mistake again.

You took the swimming suit and decided that from now on, you would live your life as you intended.

Morpheus could very well go to hell as far as you were concerned.

You quickly changed in one of the public cabins and when you went out, Corinthian was waiting for you and offered you a lopsided grin upon your arrival.

"Well well..Who do we have here ?", he hummed appreciatively before giving you a once-over. "Lovely. I knew it would look good on you."

You tried to hide your embarrassment by clearing your throat and changing subjects, even though Corinthian wasn't fooled.

"And you ? You aren't going to change ?"

He tried not to smile at the sight of your obvious nervousness and shrugged.

"Unfortunately, swimming is not something Morpheus teaches Nightmares. But, I'll make sure to mention it to him next time we'll chat.", he explained and looked away at the sea extending far beyond his view.

Your mind was suddenly filled with images of Morpheus in swim trunks, trying to teach Corinthian how to swim and you couldn't help but burst out laughing at the thought. You didn't even know if Morpheus knew how to swim ? Probably never needed to learn.

You then turned towards the sea and smiled before running towards it, not hesitating to jump head first.

Meanwhile, Corinthian sat down under the protective shade of a parasol and asked a beach boy to serve him a drink.

He then waved at you from the shore.

You waved back and started swimming around, enjoying the sensation of cold water under the harshness of the particularly hot sun.

Corinthian stayed relaxed, watching over you while you heartily played in the water. He actually wished he could swim, just so he may keep you company. But, he was just as glad to be sipping his drink in the shadows.

However, when one particularly harsh wave crashed upon you, filling your lungs with salty water and making your eyes prickle with tears..He frowned and stood up, waiting for a sign or indication that you were in any kind of danger.

But, you smiled reassuringly in his direction and raised a thumb up at him, which made him a little more relaxed as he sat back down.

He turned his head for a second to order another drink and when his eyes fell back on the water, his eyes widened at your blatant absence.

He stood up hastily once more and ran in the water to look for you frantically. He didn't care if his suit would be ruined by the salty water as he shouted—panicked beyond anything.

"Y/N ! WHERE ARE YOU ?!"

You didn't answer and he ran a hand through his hair as he started worrying you had decided to run away. Or worse. You could have removed the ring. Had Morpheus found you and decided to take you away without a word ? The thought alone made him livid.

Thankfully, you appeared a few seconds later, having swam a little farther than intended and Corinthian looked as if he was about to commit murder, but quickly calmed down upon seeing you—safe and unharmed.

"Is something wrong ?", you asked innocently—completely clueless of his earlier worries and he decided it would be better to keep them to himself. He wouldn't want to give you any ideas..

He cleared his throat and shook his head.

"No. I..I just wanted to let you know that you have 5 minutes before we need to go."

You were prepared to whine and protest, but reconsidered as you wondered if there was something Corinthian wasn't telling you.

"Why ?", you asked suspiciously.

He froze and tried to regain his composure as he walked out of the water and waved dismissively.

"It's a surprise."

You weren't satisfied with his answer, but decided to let it slide for now. You would have to insist later when there would be less people and more time to coax him into actually answering your questions..

But...Wait a minute. He said he couldn't swim. Then, why did he go in ?

A few minutes later :

"ICE CREAM ?! ARE YOU SERIOUS ?! CORINTHIAN ! I COULD ACTUALLY KISS YOU RIGHT NOW !", you exclaimed in a joyous fit upon seeing the promising goodies in his hands.

"Well..Don't stop on my account.", was his all-natural response which left you both stunned.

You deadpanned for a few seconds and stared at Corinthian whose smile didn't falter the slightest, even though he was cringing inwardly at his own negligence.

You then laughed—taking it as a joke—and he hid his disappointment by laughing with you..He was jealous of Morpheus. He could feel your link and even though his mark was still there, it remained faint. He had to remedy to that. Urgently.

Corinthian brought you back to the hotel and even though you had taken a vow of poverty, you had to admit the luxury you suddenly found yourself surrounded with was enough to awe you..The mahogany ceiling, the ivory columns, the golden-patterned walls and oak floor covered with puffy mauve carpets and dark flowers..It was better than you would have ever imagined. Corinthian felt your excitement from where he stood and even though he had never heard any importance to human material values, he enjoyed them greatly and sought to make you experience all the joys of a human life.

He had to be sure you would enjoy your time with him, if he was ever to gain your friendship and take what he needed from you.

Nightmares took time to be crafted and required finesse. You had grown without him and he had much to learn. Besides there was no point in feeding from a human who had no intention of living..

He would leave you alone. Just for tonight.

He was about to step out when you suddenly turned around to grab his hand, a worried frown now on your face.

"You are leaving."

It wasn't a question, but Corinthian took it as one either way. He smiled and gently ran two knuckles against your cheek.

"Only for tonight. I have to go feed. And unfortunately, I do not think you have enough power to sustain me at the moment.", he explained.

His purpose was to scare the living, and as you were in such a pitiful state when he had first found you, he couldn't risk weakening you any further.

You hesitated for a second before reluctantly releasing him from your hold. You knew he was right and Corinthian addressed you a reassuring smile before walking away.

He would be back tomorrow. But, for now, he had a victim to catch..

The moment he was out of view, you came back inside and locked the door behind you. You stood still for a moment before bumping your head against the door and closing your eyes, tired by everything that had befallen you for the past few days..You had suffered from such desire for so long, only to have them all filled by a Nightmare. The irony.

Corinthian seemed genuine enough by his will to help you, and it was enough for now.

Even though...

You stared at the ring on your finger and couldn't help but find an uneasiness at the object which was the only barrier between you and Morpheus. More than a whole day had passed. You felt his absence and it was like a part of yourself was missing. You then wondered if lord Morpheus felt the same ? The contract wasn't broken, as Morpheus hadn't voiced his willingness to break it..But you guessed it was only a matter of time now.

Without your prayers or your faith, you were of no interest to him.

You stepped out on the balcony and stared at the trees below, many thoughts coming to you now that you were alone..You started playing mindlessly with the ring on your finger and no matter how much you tried to forget, Morpheus always seemed to cloud your mind.

You wondered if you called him, would he even come ?

You felt foolish, but you wanted to say goodbye.

"...Morpheus ?", you attempted and moved the ring just slightly off so he may actually respond.

Your eyes turned to the sky and you bit your lower lip, wondering if he would still be able to hear your prayer ? You didn't have to ponder for long however.

In a matter of seconds, he was by your side.

You sighed before turning around to face those very intimidating and starlit eyes of his. You knew he would be upset, you just didn't expect to see him in such disarray. He seemed too pale and all too thin, as if you could break him just by touching him, when you both perfectly knew who had the power to destroy whom.

"Did he hurt you ?"

The question took you by surprise, even more when his eyes softened and he immediately scanned your body for any sign of injury. He seemed so..concerned. It made your own earlier resolve falter. He moved forward to seek for your hands, but stopped himself. He seemed to suddenly remember himself and clasped his hands behind his back instead, staring at the floor..For the first time since you had met, Morpheus was avoiding your gaze, as it might trigger something that there was no turning back from.

He was too prideful to admit it, but he was afraid.

He hadn't been able to contact you or feel your presence for the past 24 hours and the simple knowledge that it was possible terrified him. He knew Corinthian had something to do with it, but he was relieved to find you unscathed.

"Yes. I am fine, lord Morpheus. In fact, I feel better than I've been in a long time. You could even say, Corinthian has been good for me. And I..It gave me food for thought as to how I shall spend the rest of my life. I do not wish to insult you by pretending I believe in your promises, as they are as fleeting as the dreams you create. Therefore, I implore you to break the bound that links us. Permanently."

You had already tried to trick him into cutting the thread that linked you together. It hadn't worked. Maybe, the truth would set you free ? But, you should have known it wouldn't be that easy..You realized when Morpheus' expression darkened, his gaze hardened and his lips tightened into a thin line.

"You dare call for me..to tell me you wish to remain in the company of my failed creature rather than mine ?", he asked with his voice slightly trembling because of the rage he felt, broken by this promise you hadn't kept. "After such a betrayal..I should wipe you from existence."

He tried to reach for you, but hissed in pain as you still wore the ring and he couldn't take a step further without being in pain.

You then understood that for the first time since the beginning of your journey, Morpheus held no more power over you and your choice would overrule his.

"You cannot. It is not in your power to decide who lives and who dies, my lord. You have made it clear many times before.", you reminded him and Morpheus groaned in annoyance before looking up at you, his eyes two dark holes which threatened to pull you in and swallow you whole at any moment.

He was trying to convince you with fear, but it wouldn't work. It may be an efficient way to make his people submit, but you wouldn't fall. Not this time. Not when you had a friend. Not when you were no longer alone.

Maria couldn't help you, but Corinthian could. Your loneliness didn't guide your conduct no longer, nor did it blind you to the true reason of Morpheus' want for control over you. He was lonely..A loneliness he tried to hide, but would consume you entirely if you'd let him.

"It may be so..But, I have learned that there are worst things than Death in this realm.", he spat and your brow furrowed at the barely hidden threat.

"You would start a war over me ? Why ? Because of your hate for Corinthian ?", you asked warily, hoping Morpheus would reconsider his decision and take your wish for peace as surrender, for you couldn't satisfy a god who didn't know himself what he wanted nor how to express his wishes.

You believed in him, but even you held doubts as to where your loyalty laid. Morpheus wasn't ready to be a god, and you weren't ready to be his true believer.

You felt a connection, but you knew a true believer was to sacrifice everything for their god. And, you weren't ready to do so. You weren't even sure if Morpheus would do the same, or had only entertained the notion of keeping a true believer for a pity rivalry with his siblings.

"If it is his fault I cannot have you, then so be it. I shall act mercilessly and take back what is rightfully mine.."

You shivered at his threat and before you could answer, he snapped the hair linking the both of you from his wrist and sadness bathed his eyes at the thing he had fought so hard to keep. He held the thin thread of your hair in his hand and it burst into flames, along with the one around your wrist.

Finally. The contract was broken..

However, his glassy eyes shattered your heart into pieces. He looked broken. And you had no idea how to fix him..

Morpheus disappeared in a cloud of dusty smoke and you stood still for a while, letting a loud breath you didn't know you were holding.

It was done. It was over.

Or, so you thought..

Once you were back inside, you felt a shift inside you and your eyes snapped open.

It was a dream..

Of course, it was.

The thin dark thread of his hair was still tied around your wrist and even though, you knew the discussion had happened.

You tried to go back to sleep, but every time you would close your eyes, an intense pain would jolt you awake.

You attempted again multiple times, and even though you were sleepy, your mind would refuse to fall unconscious. You gritted your teeth in frustration and looked up at the beautiful ceiling with anger plaguing your mind..He had shut the doors of the Dreaming to you.

Morpheus' revenge. No doubt.

When Corinthian returned, he immediately felt that something was wrong as you writhed on your bed and murmured prayers he was even sure of the meaning.

He sat down next to you and even though your eyes were wide open, you didn't seem to be able to see him. He pressed his hand against your forehead and could feel Morpheus' presence, stepping out of line to bring you despair..

Lord Morpheus knew of his plans and was making sure you couldn't sleep so Corinthian had no choice but to leave you. 'The bastard.', Corinthian thought with gritted teeth and shook his head in disbelief.

Perfectly aware of the power of the ring would be rendered useless unless he could take power from your unconscious..

Morpheus wanted to trap you both. But, he wouldn't let him.

"Oh dear..Playing unfair, isn't he ?", he murmured as he held you in his arms, discarding the thought of your tears wetting his favorite flannel shirt. He knew you must have allowed him to enter your mind, but it was to be expected. No human could resist the Dream lord's calling for long..Even though, you seemed truly upset about your moment of weakness and hid your face in against his collarbone.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Please. Forgive me. I disobeyed. I took off the ring. Only for a second. And it was enough. He did something..", you clutched his vest so tightly, he felt his non-existent heart jump in his chest.

He was angry at the world for turning such a beautiful creature such as yourself to a mess.

But, he would repair you..Fear was not to be hated, it was to be embraced.

"You once told me that I was beautiful..Did you really mean it ?"

You suddenly stopped crying and looked up at him with puffy red eyes, pondering for a moment before admitting.

"Your nightmares..The ones you gave me. I always found them beautiful. They showed your dedication and even though I was scared, I never wished for them to go.", you confessed and the thought alone of never being able to sleep again made your stomach churn..Would you die ? No..Morpheus wouldn't let you. But, you would lose your mind. Maybe, was it the point after all ? Lose your sanity so you might never contest him again.

Corinthian smiled at your genuine answer and rested his forehead against yours, determination filling his whole being. He wouldn't let Morpheus win..Not this time.

"Then, they won't. I am a Nightmare. Your Nightmare. There is nothing that Morpheus can do about it. You are mine, and I am made of sand myself. If you want to dream, you will. I promise you, little believer."

He snapped his fingers together and suddenly, you fell into the abyss..

When you opened your eyes and found yourself surrounded by the darkness, you couldn't help but feel at ease..There was comfort in the emptiness around you.

When Corinthian appeared in front of you, his clothes had shifted to a long white gown covered with sapphires..His glasses the only remaining object of his appearance in the real world.

He tilted his head to the side and arked a quizzical eyebrow at your stunned expression.

"Don't look so surprised, Morpheus did always have a very weird sense of style. Not my choice I'm afraid..", he grimaced at his own appearance, but you could only utter in awe.

"No..It's just that..You're gorgeous."

He perked up at your compliment and stayed silent until a bright and cheeky grin lit up his face.

"Baby, I'm a Nightmare disguised as a Daydream. Of course I'm gorgeous.", he tried to hid the great pleasure your words provoked in him, but his smile quickly faded as you fell to the floor.

Morpheus' voice booming all around you.

"How dare you enter my kingdom without my consent after your unforgivable felony ?!"

Your heart pounded in your chest and you felt the lack of air in your lungs..It was unbearable. However, Corinthian stood straight and took your hand in his. Morpheus was still out of sight, but Corinthian knew he was listening.

"It is not your kingdom. The dreams belong to humans, and if you thought I would let you deprive her of her freedom because of your self-entitlement ? You are gravely mistaken, creator.", he spat that last word with such venom, you felt his loathing all the way to the pit of your stomach.

"There is nothing you can do. I am the master of this realm and my powers are beyond yours."

"For now.", Corinthian replied enigmatically before pulling you against him. You didn't understand his intentions until he lowered his head and nuzzled your neck with the tip of his nose and his lips gently traced your skin to the base of it.

You tried to get away, but Corinthian's hold tightened and even though you trusted him, you were afraid of what he might do next.

"Don't move. Please. I don't want to hurt you more than necessary.", Corinthian murmured in your ear and you wondered if all this was just a dream ? Would the numbness and exhaustion disappear if you just allowed yourself to be used ? Would it hurt less ?

But then, his teeth sank in your flesh and you could feel that the pain was all too real. Corinthian pinned your wrists to the ground, knowing the pain that you were in and hated that the process had to be so painful for you.

As he was a Nightmare, he could only take your powers if you were afraid. He had noticed that fact when he had crafted all those nightmares for you, feeling his whole being grow more powerful with time and the fear he brought you.

He knew you were hurting, but he had no choice.

"It's...okay.", you succeeded in muttering with difficulty, stroking his hair softly as if to give him your silent consent. He had offered you more happiness in the short time you had spent together than anyone ever had.

Morpheus had taken a great deal out of you already, and you trusted Corinthian to use your powers to help you.

He groaned as he could feel power surge through him and raised his hands to the gates that he knew only Morpheus could open. He then let out a powerful scream due to the extreme effort it required to open them, as a Nightmare.

But, as your power coursed through his veins, he found the strength to open the gates, his heels digging in the sand and just as he expected, Morpheus was waiting for you on the other side.

He was pale and even though Corinthian was used to his almost-spectral appearance, he had leant to differentiate when his master was in a bad shape. And, right now ? His eyes lacked their usual swiftness and gleam. He almost looked dead.

However, he then raised his hand and an army of flying Dreams appeared behind him, charging at Corinthian who stayed put. He summoned a long sword which appeared in his hand and addressed you a reassuring smile before jumping in the air, cutting through all of them like clay. Corinthian wasn't a stranger to the art of slaying and he wouldn't let anything obstruct the path to victory.

He was so close. He could finally take over.

However, just as he was about to reach for Morpheus, you called him.

"Corinthian.."

He turned around and his eyes widened as you fell to the ground, exhausted and out of breath. You were too weak. He gritted his teeth and clenched his fists at the choice now before him.

He could let you die and take over the kingdom, even though without you he would lose all the extra power in a month at most..But, he would have gotten rid of Morpheus by then.

However..He would lose you.

He shook his head and seethed through gritted teeth.

"You have made it clear of your allegiance to the people of the Dreaming many times before..Would you really let our rivalry affect this one ? Let her sleep, Morpheus. Or, I swear to annihilate your whole realm and leave only ashes behind.."

Morpheus was surprised to find Corinthian give up so close to victory and frowned a little at his threat before looking around at his realm. As much as he wanted to get you back, he knew he had a duty to protect his subjects.

If you were to remain closed off from his realm, you would perish.

He reluctantly indulged and walked forward to kneel beside you and gently wiped the sweat on your forehead with his hand before releasing you from his sleepless curse.

"All you had to do..was believe.", he whispered in your ear and you closed your eyes.

Finally, you fell into a dreamless sleep.

A few weeks later :

You woke up early and found Corinthian resting beside you. You didn't want to wake him up, so you decided to tiptoe to the front door and open it. But, before you could step out, Corinthian slammed his hand on the door to close it.

"Going somewhere ?"

You smiled when he nuzzled your neck and wrapped his arms around you.

"Well..I was going to buy some bread, but you make it very difficult for me."

He hummed appreciatively against the back of your neck and you bit down a giggle at the sensation. You turned around and wrapped your arms around his neck before raising yourself on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek.

"I'm only going into town. I won't vanish. I promise. Besides, you did fight Morpheus not so long ago. You deserve the rest."

He pretended to think about it before smiling and kissing your cheek.

"Fine. Go buy the bread and I'll do the eggs."

You nodded on agreement before squeezing his hand.

"Sure. And I'll have to teach you how to do my special pancakes."

For some reason, everything seemed better now. Corinthian was a Nightmare, but he also acted like a Dream around you. He could be scary, as you had witnessed last night, but you would never be scared of him. You had learned to adapt quickly and even though Morpheus still lingered in your mind, he was but a mere whisper now. It had been weeks since your last interaction with Morpheus and even though Corinthian still brought you nightmares to feed himself, he was always to soothe them the next day.

Corinthian was happy with you, and you with him.

You were returning from the baker when you noticed that something felt..off. Time seemed to stop around you and you stopped dead in your tracks to look around—confused.

Suddenly, Fate appeared before you in all his endless might and his long golden cape covering his face as he simply stared at you for a second or two.

"...You are going to kill me ?", you finally asked and Fate shook his head negatively.

"We cannot kill you, true believer..You are master of your own fate. I am merely here to inform you that your time is running short.", he didn't even blink while telling you, as if he was talking about the weather rather than your actual death.

"What do you mean ?", you asked in disbelief—confused as to the sudden announcement.

"A true believer cannot live with no spiritual guidance. You have chosen Morpheus as your god. If you do fail the trials, you will be wiped out from this universe.", he finally elaborated and you frowned.

"I do believe in Nightmares and in the Corinthian. Isn't it the same as worshipping Morpheus ?"

Fate gave you a humorless smile, frigid even as he tried to explain the rules of a game you unwillingly been made a participant of. One where the terms changed incessantly and you had never been informed of the rules.

"Dear child..Unless your heart makes no distinction between the two beings, it won't work. You have promised to devote yourself to lord Morpheus alone. My brother. But, focusing your prayers on one entity in his realm would be unwise and unconventional. Corinthian is not an Endless, therefore doesn't have sufficient power to contain you or keep you from us.."

"So...If I do not rebound with Morpheus, my soul will be lost forever ?", you concluded and Fate confirmed.

"I'm afraid so. Your soul will soon be collected and I advise you to make amends, or you will be destroyed."

You shivered at the finality of his words and Fate then disappeared as quickly as he had appeared..You thought of Corinthian who held so much hope and who had even changed his ways for you..You then skipped to Morpheus, the god you had decided to rely on, but had proved to be a deceitful being.

No. You didn't see them both as the same.

Corinthian's love hurt, but you felt content in this life you had begun with him. Morpheus' love..It made you weak and needy to the point of self-destruction.

You knew Corinthian was Morpheus' creation, but you would never see them as the same.

As you would never hold Destruction responsible for the fire who took your sisters..

You started walking back to the hotel and shook your head, the cold wind hitting your face and rendering your whole being numb.

If you were to save yourself and admit that they are the one and the same, it would mean Corinthian's place wasn't with you, but with the dreamers.

It would be sending him back to his miserable condition..You would be depriving him of the thing he desired most.

You didn't have the heart to inform him.

Back at the hotel :

Corinthian knew Morpheus would eventually show up, as the Endless was rarely one to let go. He didn't even flinch as a familiar whoosh made itself heard behind him, still beating the eggs and not turning around to greet his unwelcomed guest.

"Well hello there. Fancy some breakfast ?", Corinthian asked Morpheus while walking around the kitchen without a care in the world.

"What are you doing, Corinthian ?", Morpheus weighted his words carefully and tried to contain his anger as the Corinthian kept whistling joyfully.

"Hum..Eggs and bacon. But, guess what ? I am learning how to do pancakes. Y/N is showing me."

At the mention of your name, Morpheus' patience almost snapped and Corinthian noticed as he grinned—feeling deeply satisfied by the look Morpheus was giving him, flickering between frustration and desperation.

"You know very well that this is not what I was asking. Where is she ? Where is Y/N ?", he looked around and even though he couldn't sense your presence, he could tell you weren't there.

"At the baker's. She's actually having the time of her life. Away from you.", Corinthian decided to put salt on the wound and Morpheus restrained a pained expression at the cruel reminder. He had lost.

"I do not understand why she would stay with you, out of every other being in the universe..", Morpheus admitted and the Corinthian's smile faltered for a second as he could feel Morpheus' jealousy and utter disbelief at your decision.

"I was her Nightmare. I know all about her fears and desires. She allows me to use her mind for...my own purposes. And she gets to live a life away from you. Pretty sweet deal, don't you think ?", he asked before pouring himself a glass of wine—not bothering to offer one to the Dream lord he hoped would take it as a hint to leave. However, it didn't work.

"You are feeding on her.", Morpheus accused and Corinthian huffed a bitter laugh.

"As if that wasn't what you were doing..At least, I've got something to give."

"Oh ? And—pray tell—what is it that you can offer her that I cannot ?", Morpheus asked skeptically and expected every answer, but the one Corinthian offered him.

"Love."

Morpheus remained silent for a moment, wondering if he had heard him correctly the first time.

"...What ?"

Corinthian sighed in exasperation before standing up and walking away, not bothering to repeat himself.

"You heard me. Now, return to your kingdom. I'm busy. I've got eggs to look after..."

What was this masquerade ?! The Corinthian couldn't love ! He couldn't show empathy ! He only had the purpose of making people afraid ! And even that, he had failed !

"Love ? What do you know of love ?", he huffed disdainfully and Corinthian stilled for a moment, not turning around to face Morpheus and his eternal arrogance.

"More than you, apparently..From the moment we met, I knew she was special. She was afraid and yet—she embraced my darkness. I was about to go seek for her after my permanent release from your influence, but as you remember...You've locked me away before I could.", Corinthian seethed that last bit venomously, remembering the painful time away from you. It had all been Morpheus' fault. If he hadn't locked him away for all these years..He was sure you could have been happy.

"You talk of love..Do you even know of its true significance ?", Morpheus asked bitterly, memories of suffering and endless torment appearing in his head.

Here it was again. Morpheus and his absolute conviction that he was above everyone..

It made Corinthian turn back towards him and chuckle darkly.

"Do I know of its significance ?", he spat Morpheus' words back at him as if they were an insult, "I abandoned my wish to kill you for her. I would take over kingdoms if she asked me. I would fight for her. I would even die for her. And you dare ask me if I know of its significance ? Yes. My lord. I know of its true significance. Utter and careless devotion."

Every step he took forced Morpheus to back away until they were mere inches apart and Corinthian smirked before leaning forward, so close Morpheus could see his own reflection in his glasses..He looked unlike himself, unhinged even.

"What you have never thought of, Dream of the Endless..is that more than being a mere means to an end. A way to gain more power. The true believer is to be worshipped themselves, to keep them from falling into chaos. Oh..And how I've worshipped them for years. Ever since they were a child. I have crafted the most beautiful and dark nightmares for her..I have been leaving gifts that I have spent nights on end carving with my bare hands and when I was sure they would love them—love me—I have shown myself and swore to protect them. Always."

Morpheus didn't think the Corinthian able of such devotion, of such poetic attachment to a mortal no less. He then understood why he had defied him that night to go see you.

Corinthian was in love. As terrible and unreasonable as it may sound..The Corinthian had found in you something that he would willingly give up everything for, defying the very laws of the Dreaming and the waking world to keep you safe..

"I thought you would be my greatest creation. You turned out to be such a waste of potential.", Morpheus lamented—as he now understood how much Corinthian was flawed, committing the exact same mistakes he used to do—and if Corinthian had eyes, he would have rolled them at the overused words.

"Bouhou. Cry me a river.", he waved the words dismissively.

He then went back to setting the table and Morpheus felt queazy at the very domestic life Corinthian was depicting. He was a Nightmare. Nightmares weren't supposed to act in such a way..

"I thought you were clever. You disappoint me, Corinthian."

Corinthian glared at him, but didn't let Morpheus get to him, as he perfectly knew he was provoking him to get a reaction out of him, to prove a point that he remained a monster.

"What's new ?", he hissed through gritted teeth—remembering days of solitude where he was alone in his workshop with only his nightmares to keep him company. The only time he would see Morpheus was when he would oversee his work and he'd pick out all the things he called "imperfections" to destroy them. He would take all the beauty and joy out of it, only leaving the dread and blood, but what Corinthian could save of his actual original work, he would always send them to you.

"You have taken what is mine.", Morpheus blamed him and one could hear Corinthian's teeth grind against each other at the accusation. How dare he ?!

"Wrong. She was mine first.", he countered and turned around to face Morpheus with one of his signature smiles, "You never let me go beyond your stupid instructions and rules, and all of the other humans wouldn't acknowledge my nightmares, dismissing them as terrible and crude things. She was the first one to see my work as genius, as worth the scare. I love her. Because, you never did."

Morpheus' eyes widened at his creation's outburst and was left speechless for a few seconds before shaking his head. It wasn't his fault..He couldn't..He hadn't..

"...I am your master, Corinthian. Love has nothing to do with the duties we are both forced to bear.", he stated with such cruel lack of emotions that Corinthian himself felt his patience crack..He had never seen him other than a servant. A mere thing he could get rid of at any moment. Corinthian couldn't cry, but if he could, he would have by now.

Instead, he sat at the breakfast table and proceeded to ignore the Dream lord and wait for you. However, he should have known Morpheus wouldn't give up so easily. Dream took a seat across from him, discarding the look of obvious disapproval on Corinthian's face.

"...She will grow old and die.", Morpheus decided to remind him and Corinthian snickered. As if that would stop him..

"And I don't care. Next ?", he shot back.

The sound of the front door opening distracted him and when your eyes met, Morpheus' gaze shifted from confusion to hopeful. He tried to speak, but you cut him off.

"What do you want Morpheus ? Any more suffering you wish to inflinct upon me ?", you scoffed mockingly and took a seat beside Corinthian, making sure Morpheus understood you were still mad at him.

He lips slightly parted, but he remained silent for a moment before finally confessing.

"I have acted foolishly. And I know that I have no right to call upon your sympathy, but I do admit my mistake. I took you for granted and tried to use you for my own selfish desires. You were right..and I was wrong. Please. Forgive me."

You hadn't expected apologies from the Dream lord and your expression softened slightly in surprise. He took your silence for validation to keep going and quickly added.

"I want to learn from you. To understand you. And, redeem myself in your eyes. If you'd let me.", he extended his hand towards you, his knuckles grazing the wooden table and you stared at his outstretched hand warily, but also with hope. He seemed truly apologetic and even though you had decided to cut all ties with the Endless, you did miss him. You wished to believe him, so badly..But, you knew Morpheus could lie and doubtlessly would again to fulfill his goal.

You gulped and hesitated, it was enough for Morpheus to smile and Corinthian to frown.

Corinthian grabbed his knife and before you could stop him, thrusted it in Morpheus' hand. Morpheus retreated his hand immediately and hissed in pain. When you saw blood dripping down his hand, your eyes widened in shock and you quickly sped to his side.

"By Lena ! Are you alright ?!"

Even though it did hurt, Morpheus smiled victoriously at the concern in your voice and chuckled.

"I knew it..I knew you still cared for me, my little believer."

You held his hand and it reminded you of when Morpheus had decided to jump of that hill all those months ago to see your reaction. Of course, you cared. You would never stop caring for the only being who had answered your prayers when you were in trouble.

However, another hand grabbed your arm and twirled you around so you may face him. Corinthian was sweating heavily and his nostrils flared as he felt this excruciating pain in his chest. He thought you would forget. He thought if he gave you everything you wanted, you would come to see Morpheus as the selfish and cruel master that he was. But, he was now worried that you would leave him.

"Don't you leave me.", he threatened in a harsh whisper and even though it had come out as forceful, you could feel the desperation in his voice. He was scared.

"I don't want to.", you replied truthfully and Corinthian's face softened a little.

Morpheus sat up straight and looked up at the both of you with something akin to regret gleaming in his eyes, before it was replaced by confusion and hurt.

"You would choose him over me ?", Morpheus asked in disbelief and you felt Corinthian's grip on you tighten.

"It's her choice.", Corinthian said and glared at Morpheus who raised his bloody hand to show you the wound, as if to prove his next point.

"You are a murderer, Corinthian..You cannot change your nature."

Corinthian felt rage bubble up in his chest and he never thought it would be possible for his loathing for Morpheus to reach such extent.

"Don't act all innocent. It doesn't suit you.", Corinthian bit back and almost bared his teeth at him in retaliation.

You had stayed silent so far, but you shook your head and—tired of hearing them bickering—decided to speak up.

"IT DOESN'T MATTER !", you burst out and both godly entities turned towards you with looks of confusion.

"What ?", Corinthian asked and Morpheus followed.

"Why ?"

You pulled out of their grip to stand up and even though you didn't want to tell them like this, you found yourself too wound up to care.

"BECAUSE, IT DOESN'T MATTER ! I WILL BE DEAD IN A FEW DAYS ANYWAY BECAUSE I AM GOING TO FAIL THAT STUPID TRIAL !"

They both remained silent and your eyes watered at Corinthian's utter shock and sorrow. You couldn't bear the sight and framed his face with your hands tenderly, as if he was made of weak crystal and threatened to break at any moment.

"I'm sorry, Corinthian. I..I can't stay. I wish I could. You are the best thing that happened to me and I will not ask you for your freedom against mine.."

Corinthian wrapped his hands around your wrists and gently stroked them with his thumbs. He knew that. He knew you were too kind..And he was selfish. He was so selfish because he wanted to abuse of it, but was also so very infatuated with you..He was torn.

"It wasn't your fault..", Morpheus' voice rose beside you and you both looked at him as he added, "He took you away."

Morpheus glared at Corinthian who growled back at him. Even now, Morpheus was making sure to bury him further in the ground..But, this time, he was surprised when you defended him.

"And I let him..And I'd let him again a thousand times. He was the best thing that could have happened to me, and I'm so glad he found me.", you said assuredly and Morpheus' expression crumbled as he uttered weakly, his voice a mere rasp as the coldness of your words hit him deeper than any blade ever would.

"Why do you speak so unfairly ? Haven't I sacrificed everything for you ?"

Sacrifice ? He dared speak of sacrifice ?

"Our relationship is not based on faith, friendship, love, or anything pure and true, Morpheus. It is based on a lie."

You declared and all light left Morpheus' eyes, your words rendering him numb as he felt his heart slow in his chest.

"It wasn't for me..", he confessed and for a flitting moment, you felt guilt take over you as you realized, Morpheus was being genuine. The irony. The god who believed in his believer more than she ever did in him..

"I know. You thought you could save me. But, even if Corinthian is a part of you, I cannot force him to abandon his freedom for me. You and I have never even really existed, Morpheus. Everything you feel is because of what he felt..what he feels.", you turned towards Corinthian who smiled weakly at you, not even attempting to deny it. Morpheus stared at his hand and even though the wound had healed, he still felt pain course through him. Had he really fell for you because of his own creation ?

He suddenly glared up at Corinthian and before either of you could stop him, pinned him to the wall by the throat.

"YOU PLAYED ME !", he boomed angrily and Corinthian couldn't help but laugh, even though the situation wasn't exactly ideal. Morpheus really thought he could have orchestrated it all ? He felt flattered.

You grabbed Morpheus and attempted to get him off, but Morpheus didn't even spare you a glance.

"Please, Morpheus. If you care for me, you'll let him go.", you begged him and Morpheus finally returned your gaze, even though fury filled his, he couldn't do something against you. It would be too painful.

"If that is what you wish, it shall be done..But, know that you will not be able to ask me for anything else.", he warned you and you looked at Corinthian before returning to Morpheus and replying confidently.

"I understand."

He hesitated for a second before finally releasing Corinthian who fell to the floor. He was still smiling, but for a whole different reason. Even though Morpheus tried to deny it and blame it for his emotions, he was as much your slave—a sucker for your love—as he was.

"YOU'LL BE BACK ! YOU ALWAYS DO !"

Morpheus addressed one last dark glare at Corinthian who only cackled, sensing Morpheus' rage as he disappeared.

Two days later :

You were walking on the sand and Corinthian held your hand in his while t sound of the sea created a certain peace in the moment. Peace that was disturbed by the appearance of Fate by your side.

"It is almost time.", he announced and you frowned before sighing. Corinthian didn't seem to notice Fate's presence and you knew it was the Endless' way of warning you, a chance that not many had had the luck of getting. You smiled gratefully at the Endless who then gave you some privacy by vanishing. You stopped and took a big breath—filling your lungs with the salty air—before turning towards Corinthian who frowned in incomprehension when you pulled off your ring and returned it to him.

He stared at the ring in his hand and shook his head, not able to comprehend your gesture.

"I do not understand. What does it mean ? Weren't you..Aren't you happy with me ?", he asked and you smiled sadly at the obvious confusion and doubt in his voice. You gently stroked his cheek and whispered lovingly.

"More than you'll ever know."

Corinthian didn't understand the concept of death, as he never had to worry about it before. When his victimes would give their last breath, he would think of them as empty shells and which spirit would simply depart to the next. He had never cared about Death, for he had never actually cared about anyone before you..

"..I know how bad you want to be human. You want to be free..And in order for you to be, I need to go somewhere. And where I go..You cannot follow. I'm sorry, my dear friend. But, this is goodbye. May our paths cross again in the next life..", you turned around and walked away with shaky steps, not wanting him to see your tears nor the fear in your heart at what was about to happen.

You weren't surprised when you saw Morpheus standing there, his cheeks hollow and dark circles under his eyes. He was in a worse shape than you ever remembered him to ever be. He extended his hand forward and you didn't hesitate before taking it and giving it a light squeeze.

"You could still change your mind.", he told you, but you shook your head with a small smile.

"I will not let Corinthian be destroyed. I know very well what happens to people who disobey you. I know of your duties, Morpheus. He would be sent to the void and I cannot allow it."

It was no accusation, just a simple fact that the both of you knew by now. No one could escape their fate.

At his apparition, Corinthian understood what you meant and grabbed your hand.

"No. I refuse.", he stubbornly protested and you could feel the determination in his voice, but you smiled apologetically at him. You had no choice. Even with all the power in the world, Corinthian couldn't beat all of the Endless. You both knew it, but Corinthian was ready to try.

You were his. They couldn't take you away from him.

"I'm afraid we have no say in it anymore, Corinthian. My life never really belonged to me. We both knew it from the beginning.", you said with tears rolling down your cheeks and his heart broke at the sight, even though he didn't show you.

His eyebrows dropped slightly, shading his eyes from you and even if he knew you were right, he couldn't help but hope. He pulled you in his arms and buried his nose in your hair, closing his eyes so your fragrance may remain forever in his mind.

"You still owe me a kiss..", he reminded you with a small playful smile and gently cupped your cheeks.

You smiled affectionately at him and leaned forward to kiss his cheek, only to be surprised when Corinthian decided to pull you closer and kiss you on the mouth instead. It was urgent and passionate—translating emotions he couldn't find the words to.

Morpheus glared spitefully at him and Corinthian winked cheekily at him.

The old man could get angry. He had power over him no longer..

However, your moment was cut short as Death herself appeared next to you and put her hand on your shoulder.

"It is time to go, believer."

Corinthian frowned a little at the urgency in her words and was about to protest when a gun shot was heard. You slowly turned around towards Morpheus and your eyes watered as red started staining your dress.

"M..Maria ?"

Corinthian stood there, unable to move as he had yet to fully assimilate that someone had just shot you. He slowly turned around to find Maria there..Her eyes puffy and red and her hands shaking on the gun she had just used. The gun fell on the sand and she tearfully said.

"I'm sorry, Y/N. They left me no choice."

Maria slowly morphed under your eyes and you then understood as she took the shape of a beautiful woman with diamond eyes and a long blue tunic..Desire standing behind her with a small devilish smile.

Maria was the only one who stood by your side from the very beginning, and even though you knew her to be too good to be true, you still thought there was one thing this world had yet to take away from you.

You closed your eyes and let out a small bitter laugh at the irony. The only good human you had ever encountered and who was still alive was just another of the Endless' unlucky servants.

You didn't even ressent her. Now that you knew that you all had a part to play. Yours was simply to be a toy of the Endless, as many others had been mournfully entitled with. However, your eyes raised to look at Corinthian as he screamed and ran to hold you.

It was time.

With Death and Morpheus :

Death's face remained emotionless as she waited for the last minutes to roll by and Morpheus who had remained silent so far, spoke up.

"Please..Do not take her away from me.", he pleaded—a single tear rolling down his cheek—and Death' expression softened as she saw the true devastation in his eyes. She sighed and held his hand.

"This soul has already been promised to another. I am sorry, Morpheus. But, you know as well as I do that this soul is more important than any other and your turn has ended."

Morpheus returned his eyes to you and he sinisterly asked.

"To whom ?"

Death seemed to hesitate, but finally replied.

"I think you know.."

Morpheus closed his eyes and asked.

"Is there any way I could make it right ?"

Death smiled and returned her gaze upon you and the Corinthian.

"Y/N refused to believe in you, but she does love the Corinthian. If you were to succeed in making peace with each other and he accepted to return with you to the Dreaming, then that would make her your believer as well. She refused to sell him out, but it doesn't mean it is over."

Morpheus' eyes widened slightly at the realization and even though he knew Corinthian wouldn't be easy to persuade, he was determined to try everything to save you.

Even make peace with himself.

Back to you and the Corinthian :

The Corinthian had never once feared Death. He had caused her appearance to so many of his kills, he had not considered ever cowering before her.

But, there. As your body hit the ground and he was left paralyzed by the feeling of your blood on his hand...He realized how much he should have been scared of Death.

For even though Death would never come for him, he had forgotten that they come for all mortals. His knees hit the ground as he rushed by your side to hold your hand.

He couldn't see your spirit departing, but he did feel the very moment your body stilled and your chest ceased heaving. The blood now staining his hands and clothes made him sick, him who had marveled upon the dark liquid so many times before couldn't stomach its sight no longer. He wanted to make the world pay for taking his most precious love, but Death held your soul now.

"Corinthian.", Morpheus called out to him, but he remained silent. Corinthian didn't want to talk to the very reason he had to lose you.

His head snapped up at Morpheus and he spat hatefully.

"Why ?! Why couldn't you leave me that one light ?! Why must you smother every single spark of joy I ever experienced ?!"

Morpheus' eyelids flickered slightly at his creation's outburst and when Corinthian stood up to hit him, he let him.

He punched him so hard, Morpheus was left momentarily stunned and Corinthian too, but it didn't last long as he grabbed Morpheus by the collar and spat hatefully.

"You took EVERYTHING from me !"

Morpheus didn't falter at the Corinthian's raise of voice and only tilted his head to the side to study his creation's expression. He really cared for you, didn't he ?

"Yes. I did. And now, I am also the only one who can tell you how to save her.", Morpheus informed him.

Corinthian's breath hitched at the news and after a long moment of deliberation, decided to listen to him. He released Morpheus and took a step back. Morpheus knew he would react badly to the solution he had came up with, but he still told him.

"My sister told me that the reason for Y/N failing the second trial was her faith in me that was deemed too weak. And tried as I might to make her hear reason, she still decided to love and care for you. But, if we were recognized as one and the same..If you returned to the Dreaming and returned to sand, she would be saved."

Corinthian frowned in indecision and his jaw visibly twitched. He had fought so hard to break free from the kingdom of Dream and yet, he was face with the same dilemma than before, only this time you were in the balance. He could ignore Morpheus' words and let you go, fully enjoying this new chance you had given him..Or, he could give up on this promising new life for you.

Now, the real question was: was he willing to sacrifice everything for you ?

The past few weeks returned to him and memories of happiness surged through his mind, something he thought he would never have. You had offered him something he had sought for so long and thought impossible for Nightmares like him: to be human. He had fallen in love with you, and it brought him great pleasure and sadness.

He looked up at the sky and huffed a bitter laugh at the obvious and only answer possible.

"I cannot let her die.", he confessed and Morpheus couldn't deny the respect he felt for his creation who was willing to give himself for your salvation.

For once, both him and Morpheus agreed.

They wouldn't let you die. Not here. Not ever..

Corinthian carefully folded his glasses and gave them to Morpheus for safekeeping.

Morpheus frowned in incomprehension at the odd gift and Corinthian smiled sadly at his obvious confusion.

"Give them to Y/N, would you ? A little something to remember me by.."

Morpheus stared at the token of his creation's existence and nodded shortly before sliding them in his inner pocket.

Corinthian then knelt in front of Morpheus and lowered his head, submitting to his creator's power and even though it pained him to do so, he spelled the words he had sworn to never utter again in his life..

"I. The Corinthian. Surrender to your might, Dream of the Endless. I promise to hold my duties and make dreamers fear me. And to obey your every command as well as do your bidding until the end of Time."

It filled Morpheus with nostalgia, taking him back to the first time Corinthian had pledged his allegiance to him and when he still held so much hope for him.

"Rise up, Corinthian. You are now a part of me and I a part of you. We are the Dreaming.", he said ceremoniously and shed a few tears—as he saw his most beautiful and successful creation fall into ashes.

Corinthian closed his eyes at the cursed words, feeling his whole being merge with the Dreaming and his body dissolving into the wind, returning to the land of his creation. However, just as he was about to vanish fully, he raised his face to look at Dream and even though he never thought he would ever plead, he lowered himself to do so for your sake.

"Please, Dream..Bring her back."

Dream stilled and after a second, nodded before Corinthian disappeared in a cloud of sand.

It was high time to pay a visit to an old friend.

When you woke up, you could feel heat surround you and suffocate you as there was this indescribable feeling crawling up your spine. You were familiar to this place, even though you had only heard of it in books.

Suddenly, perfectly polished black boots came into view and you hesitantly looked up to find it belonged to an angel—but not any angel..The one you had so feared to meet upon your death for so many years.

"Welcome to your final challenge, believer.", Lucifer said with a blood-curdling smile and you unwillingly shivered at the clear dark intentions in her unwavering gaze.

Was this Nightmare ever going to end ?

[omniglitch-au]

Have the universe recreation happened n your au?

BEACEUE I DREAMED THIS: Alien X, finding this out. Freak out.

Then he basically, after being said no by the cestiasapien, give the biggest middle finger ever and redoing the universe from 0.

At the end he just said to the others celestiasapiens "No regrets."

My dream finished like this.

I dreamed the savage Alien X.

Okay, but this idea was awesome so I had to write it out.

Around them was nothing.

No stars, no planets. Not even space itself. Just a vast nothingness.

Alien X stared into the void where only a few seconds ago his family and a few horrified citizens had stood.

This wasn't happening. This couldn't be happening.

How many times had he had nightmare-visions of this exact moment? Where he would be all alone, everything and everyone around him nothing more than a memory?

Except in these nightmares, he'd never been awake to witness it. How was this somehow worse than waking up from a forced coma only to realize you were all alone???

"Well," a cold voice behind him remarked. "That most certainly happened."

Well, mostly alone.

Alien X wasn't surprised at Bellicus' complete lack of empathy. The voice of Rage and Agression wasn't exactly known for being tactful. Or for being in any way capable of feelings beyond smug, cold arrogance.

"So many lives lost. A pity," a female voice said, her tone remorseful, but still detached. As if she was talking about a tragic accident that had taken place on another continent, as opposed to the destruction of the entire universe.

Serena might have called herself the voice of Love and Compassion, but she was no more loving than Bellicus was. She merely knew how to hide her callousness better.

Alien X wasn't sure which one of them he hated more at this moment.

Slowly, he turned around to them, eyes turning into slits. "Let me bring them back."

Bellicus raised his eye ridges. "And why should we?"

"Because they're my family."

"No they're not," Serena said, sounding honestly confused. “They're not Celestialsapiens. They just live with you."

Alien X flew up to her face, fists clenched so hard they were shaking. "Take that back."

Serena shrank in on herself. "But it's true. They're-"

He got into her face even more, not caring about the fear starting to seep into her eyeless expression. "They're more of a family to me than any Celestialsapien will ever be. Or you, for that matter."

"Then perhaps it's good that they're gone," Bellicus said coldly. "Evidently their mortal nonsense has been a great distraction to you. Now maybe you'll actually do your part and be the voice of Reason you were meant to be."

For a while there was dead silence. If Serena had a throat, she would have gulped. Slowly, Alien X turned around, until he was fully facing Bellicus. And before either Bellicus or Serena could react, he raised a hand and released a white-hot energy beam.

The projectile went right through Bellicus, disappearing somehwere in the endless void behind the voice.

Nonetheless, Bellicus' expression was full of shock. "Did you... did you just try to attack me? Why? For what purpose?"

Instead of answering, Alien X just stared at him, eyes widened as if something had shocked him too. Then all of a sudden he bent over and started to laugh. It was a hollow, mirthless sound.

"Of course," he wheezed, putting a hand to his forehead. "Of course even now I can't get rid of you! You'll always be there, even at the literal end of the universe! You’ll never let me go! Just like the parasites you are!”

“Parasites!?” Bellicus blurted indignantly.

Serena’s expression went from fearful to hurt then slowly to something like remorse. “You.. you truly hate us, don’t you, Alien X?”

Alien X turned back to her, eyes narrowing. “Yes. I do. You stole years of my life from me from the moment I came out of the watch. I can’t move ninety percent of the time because you can’t even agree on the simplest little thing and you think forcing me into your arguments will help, even though you never listen to me. And right now, you won’t even let me save the people I love, because you’re too stuck up and above it all to understand why I’d want to bring back my family.”

“If you’re quite finished with this tantrum of yours,” Bellicus spoke up again. “Then maybe now we may get back to significantly more important matters.”

Alien X shook his head, slowly. “No.”

Bellicus blinked.

“No?”

“If you won’t help me, “Alien X said, slowly spreading his arms to the side. “Then I’ll bring them back myself.”

“But... you can’t!” Serena said, eyes wide.

“We haven’t agreed to it,” Bellicus objected. “To ignore our verdict is to break the Celestialsapien laws! You need us!”

Alien X started to glow. He turned to look at Bellicus, eyes shining bright green. “No. I don’t.”

Balls of light flew across the universe, becoming stars. Masses of all sizes and widths formed themselves into planets, asteroids.

The Earth sizzled back to existence, the Mr. Smoothie parking lot slowly assembling itself around Alien X, together with the Incurseans, the Vreedles, Ben, Rook, Crashhopper, NRG, Grey Matter and Spidermonkey. The Annihilargh came last, giving a small ‘beep’ before cluttering to the floor.

“Whoa,” Ben said, staring at the small object that had ended everything only seconds before.

Emperor Milleous stepped forward, grabbing the Annihilargh of the ground and shaking it a few times.

“No boom?” he asked. A disappointed croak came from his throat.

Rhomboid Vreedle walked up to Milleous and snatched the device from his hand, giving it a shake of his own before pouting. “Aww, it’s a dud!”

He let the Annihilargh fall back onto the pavement, then stepped on it, crushing it into small, sparking pieces.

“Welly, welly, well, too bad about that,” Argit snickered, ambling towards emperor Milleous. “But I did get it for you, Milleous. And a deal’s a deal, so how about that half-ton of Taydenite you owe me?”

Instead of answering, Milleous merely snapped his fingers. A dozen energy rifles were aimed at Argit at once.

“...Ooor, we could just call it even,” Argit mumbled, quickly retreating. And walking right into Rook. When Argit looked up, he saw Rook glaring down at him, holding a pair of energy handcuffs. Argit gave a sheepish giggle.

_______________________________________________________________

Ben watched the whole thing happen with a grin on his face, before turning and seeing Alien X.

Alien X was hunched over, shaking and swaying from side-to-side. NRG walked up to him, laying a hand on his shoulder.

“Are you alright, brother X?” he asked, worry in his voice.

Alien X nodded. “I... I am fine.”

“Doesn’t look like it,” Spidermonkey commented, tilting his head. “At all.”

“If you had a respiratory system, I would say you are out of breath,” Grey Matter said, frowning.

“Yeah, you look exhausted,” Crashhopper said. He was bouncing in place, a nervous habit.

Alien X couldn’t help but smile to himself seeing it. Good. He’d managed to bring them back unchanged. Everything was fine. They were fine.

It was then that he felt the familiar tug on his consciousness, even more unwelcome and demanding than it usually was. Serena and Bellicus were calling him back. And with what he’d just done, he didn’t have the strength to resist them for very long.

“X?” Ben’s worried face appeared in his increasingly blurried vision. “Did... you do something with the Annihilargh? Is that what’s happening to you?”

Alien X groaned. He swayed again and would have fallen over if NRG hadn’t quickly grabbed him by the arms to hold him upright.

“Kinda,” he gasped. “Listen... don’t have... much time...”

“Ah,” he heard Grey Matter say. “It appears the other personalities are gaining control again.”

“Man, don’t they know there’s a time and a place?” Spidermonkey muttered.

“...I... I don’t regret....anything...you need...to know that,” Alien X said, voice getting weaker and quieter with every word. “I...I love...you all... so much...”

His body went stiff in NRG’s arms. His eyes dulled.

The Tennysons all stared at their comatose brother, somewhat stunned by what he’d just said.

“Where’d that come from?” Crashhopper asked eventually, eyes widened.

“Dunno,” Ben responded, looking at Alien X’ still body. A feeling of dread began to form in his stomach. “But I get the feeling whatever he did to save our butts cost him more than we think.”

_____________________________________________________________

“Do you have any idea what you’ve just done?” Bellicus snapped. “Our powers were not meant for one voice to wield alone!”

“And overruling us was very hurtful,” Serena added, sounding like she was on the verge of metaphorical tears. “Why would you just ignore us like that?”

“The Celestialsapiens will not let this stand,” Bellicus sneered. “You are aware of that? There will be consequences.”

Alien X looked up at them, feeling more tired than he’d ever been in his life. Still he straightened himself, facing both of the voices.

“I know,” he said. “And I don’t care. It was worth it.”

[netheritenugget]

Okay so my lore is kinda really complicated but basically, Wilbur and Eret were both kids who'd had their lives screwed up and were left on their own. Eret saved Wilbur after he was orphaned at 10 from a bad fever and they found Tommy and Tubbo about a year or so later in a village that had been ransacked and abandoned, both of them about 3 years old, give or take. They can't just leave these kids to die so they end up taking them on and raising them together.

Eret is the stricter of the two of them, usually who punishes the two boys when they do something bad (like when Tommy put bugs in Tubbos sleeping bag or Tubbo pushed Tommy into a bunch of mud), but they also teach the boys how to read, about surviving, and calms them down after nightmares. Tubbo was Erets boy growing up, while Tommy was Wilburs, and Eret often called him 'Little Bee'~

Wilbur is the more fun 'parent', the one who can make the boys laugh on bad days, who sings them to sleep, makes up games and stories and songs to pass the time. Hes also the one that if he's mad at them for something they did, then the boys know it must've been really serious (like when Tubbo nearly fell into a frozen river because Tommy dared him to walk on it)

When Fundy came along later on, Eret was honorary 3rd parent that became 2nd parent after Fundys mom was killed (by Dream). Fundy was Erets baby (not to say he didn't love Tommy and Tubbo as their own but he'd helped bring Fundy into the world so the connection was immediate as opposed to gradually built) and Fundy called them 'Pa' since he was very young up until...the betrayal, which was for different reasons then simply money n a title like in the main Canon, but I'll save that for another time because this is already a lot"""

-🐦 (I'm only on anon because Tumblr hates me and a lot of time my asks don't go through if I'm not""")

This is a really cool idea! I love it!!!

I'm just so soft for the mental image of Eret cooing over baby Fundy. Just holding a little fuzzy fox kit in their arms like he's the most precious thing they've ever held.

And the angst. The angst of Eret being Wilbur's closest and oldest friend, practically his brother, and betraying him... Fundy losing his second dad... Oof. That hurts. That's some good angst right there. (T-T)

Is Eret a hybrid in this AU, or a cryptid? And can I inject the idea that Wilbur Soot is also a fox hybrid into this story, because I'm very fond of that headcanon. :D

The only small problem I have here is the ages that Wilbur and Eret took in Tommy and Tubbo. I would assume Eret is also 11? I'm four and a half years younger than my younger sister. And at eleven years old, even though my sis would have been six-ish at the time, I definitely didn't have the physical or mental capacity to handle looking after her 24/7. And even if I had been taught enough about childcare to make sure I didn't immediately kill her by accident, it's still too young for things to turn out well. I'd bump Eret and Wilbur's ages up to 13, at least, that's probably the very very youngest I'd trust to parent anybody. It wouldn't hurt to also give Wilbur and/or Eret some previous experience with looking after very young children. If you don't want to go the dead siblings route (a bit too sad, even for a story like this, imo, but write whatever), maybe Eret or Wilbur's family roped them into babysitting for the neighbors or their cousins. And if you don't want the age difference between the boys to be too great, you could also bump up Tommy and Tubbo's ages.

Making Wilbur and Eret a little older would also solve the problem of getting money to feed two extra people. Most jobs available to children aren't going to pay well, the older they are the better chances of getting even temporary work that can feed them, like farm work or running errands. Wilbur could be a street musician, but that's gonna have to be something he does on the side, it's not going to be enough to be a steady income.

These are just my ideas tho, you don't have to follow them if you don't want to! Sometimes realism can make a story more entertaining. Sometimes realism can get lengthy and unnecessary. Just because Victor Hugo wrote about the construction of the Parisian sewer system in detail, doesn't mean you have to (haven't read Les Miserables, just know that's something that is actually in the book).

I'll be tagging your AU "#🐦 Anon's Wilbur And Eret AU" and you're welcome to send more, but if you're feeling brave, you can also PM me, I don't mind :3

[ask-the-riders]

Family trees

I know I posted a couple family trees before for Famine and Conquest, but I thought I'd remake those on an actual site that was designed for that kinda thing (as opposed to using the notepad app on my phone)

Then while I was at it, I figured I'd make some trees for the others too. Just,, y'know, because why not

I know the pink and blue are supposed to be there to show gender, but eh. Yeah, I used them for that, but I also could've made the squares white, too. Which,, I forgot to do, but hey. Might as well leave it as it is

Those are under the cut, along with some explanations for anyone who might have difficulty understanding them at all (which, it's totally ok if you do, so no worries ^^ I had some difficulties with it for a little bit at first too)

*Grey text means that the person has either died or changed somehow

*Solid black text means they're alive

Famine:

The Gaster of his AU was once married to another skeleton named Arial. The pair had two sons, Sans and Papyrus. Arial died in the war against humans, and Gaster eventually remarried, this time to a human named Lila. He and Lila had a son, Tobias, who was a half brother to the other two boys. Gaster eventually died by falling into the core, and Lila was killed and eaten by starving monsters. Years passed, and Sans attempted to kill Tobias. To his knowledge, his younger brother died. A genocide run happened after a while, and that was when both Sans and Papyrus died. Sans was recruited into the group of riders and he became Famine. A while passed, and long after his relationship with Retribution got better, the two started dating

Retribution and Conquest:

He began as Nightmare, while she began as Dream. Together they were born from the tree of feelings. The tree was eventually torn down, and Dream died in an accident. Due to the loss of his brother, Nightmare abandoned his current identity and became Retribution. A while passed and he entered into a serious relationship with Famine. Dream was reincarnated, now a female skeleton named Chimera

Chimera entered into a relationship with Death, and she eventually became pregnant with their son, Mortem. During childbirth, Chimera passed away. Once her soul stabilized and she was recruited into the group of riders, she became Conquest, and she returned to not only her usual job, but also to being the mother she felt Mortem needed. Their relationship began to crumble and fall apart at some point when Mortem was still a baby/toddler, with Death explaining that he'd fallen out of love with her and wanted to move on to find a new partner - which ended up being Geno/Error

*Death was with Geno when he became merged with an alternate Error, and although it took time, the relationship became poly, with both glitches in romantic relationships with Death. Mortem would've been born at some point before War even officially met Death or Geno, back when she was Mal

Chimera (Conquest) and Kali:

Chimera was Dream's first reincarnation. She was born into a normal family, where she had an older sister named Calypso. Their parents were both lost in the war against humans, and through some turn of events, the two sisters were separated. Chimera was adopted by her AUs version of Grillby, who was also left to raise his niece, Glo. When Chimera grew up and died, she became Conquest, but because of the turn her own fate had turned, Calypso abandoned her old identity and became Kali

War:

She began as Mal, the happy little accident child of Error and Necro (produced from their magic after they'd fought, similar to how PJ was born). Necro had adopted a toddler Papyrus from a dying AU and decided to call him Lucky. Mal and Lucky took to each other and were very close, like siblings. Necro was in a serious relationship with Zerif, and Zerif was created by Life. Because Life wasn't sure how to go about taking care of him though, she gave him to Death to raise, and with Geno's help, they raised him together. Mal eventually died in a fight against Error and/or Nightmare, and when she was recruited into the group of riders, she became War. She met her soulmate, Pestilence, and the two entered into a serious relationship after a while. After they'd been together for only god knows how long, they had a daughter, Althea

*Althea hasn't even been thought of yet (as of this moment). She more than likely won't be happening until some point in their future

Death and War's situation (+ Geno/Error):

Death had left his relationship with Conquest by now, though they still worked together to raise their son, Mortem. Because Mal, War's previous incarnation, had practically grown up with Death and was very familiar with him, the two almost acted like family. When she was recruited into the group of riders and first became War, she needed to stay with Death in his home AU while she adjusted to her new aura and fluctuating magic. Through their time together, he started to think of her as his daughter. War had also begun to see him as a father figure of sorts, but she probably would've rather died than admit that. At this point in time, Death had been in his relationship with Geno/Error for quite a while. War knew about his relationship with Geno, but not his relationship with Error. This wouldn't have been the same Error that killed her - this one was an alternate who was stuck sharing a body with Geno

The Error that killed her had two brothers - Geno and Fresh. That Geno had gotten into a quarrel with an alternate version of Error a while ago in his past, and through some accident or series of events, their codes got messed up and ended up merging. It took a while for them to adjust, but eventually, they were willing to put their differences aside and work together to coexist as peacefully as possible. Geno, although he was now sharing a body with an alternate version of one of his brothers, was still Mal (and War's) biological uncle. That being said, Fresh was still her biological uncle, too

Pestilence (since he was a Sans at one point) had a brother (Papyrus) and a father (Gaster), both from his home AU, which was eventually destroyed. Aside from his dead brother and dead dad, he had no other family. That being said, he had no biological or familial ties to anyone in the group of riders. That's partially why I didn't make a family tree for him, with the other reason for me not doing so was also because it wouldn't really have been anything notable? Just a standard Gaster with two sons kinda thing, where all three of them die

And then Abrael (Mishap) doesn't get a family tree either because she has no known family (that I've come up with yet), and because like Pest, she has no biological or familial ties to anyone in the group

Then for any clarification, if it wasn't obvious or stated already: Famine comes from an AU similar to Horrortale, Death comes from Reapertale (or a close variant of it), Pestilence was a version of Sci from some unnamed AU, War was an outcode, Retribution comes from some variant of Dreamtale (as did Dream), Chimera/Conquest came from another unnamed AU, and Abrael came from the standard human world (back during the golden age of pirates, most likely)

[applejacks1552]

PART 1:

So after my discussion on why Gambit would make a good parent in the 616, a few readers asked if I would do a write up for Rogue, his long time love interest and recent wife.

Now parenthood for Rogue is a little more complicated than for Gambit in several aspects, not the least of which being the complexities of portraying motherhood in media. The rather fraught politics around the role of women in society leaves the issue of if and when women should have children loaded with controversy and judgement from opposing sides. But let's take a look at what we know from comics canon and set those considerations aside for now.

A normal life

Given the limits her powers impose on her physically, throughout her comics career Rogue covets and idealizes a perception of normalcy far more than most of her fellow mutant teammates. She yearns for intimacy and touch and family. While the majority of the X-Women are fairly silent or ambivalent or even downright hostile toward the notion of starting a family, it's something Rogue has expressed interest in on panel more than once.

In Cable #20 during the Legion Quest storyline, the M'kraan crystal wave is coming and the world is about to end. Rogue asks Gambit if he'd ever thought about having a family … clearly something she herself is mourning in those last moments of life and in relation to what might have been with Gambit.

Later, in Uncanny X-Men #359, Rogue is desperate to be free of her powers, having recently come to experience physical intimacy firsthand while trapped powerless in Antarctica with Gambit. She tries to undergo a treatment claiming to cure mutation, but is stopped at the last moment by Mystique. While arguing with her, Rogue explicitly expresses the desire to have a child someday as part of the reason she wants to be free of her powers. It says a lot about how important this was to her that Rogue was ready to throw away her powers and risk a procedure she knew almost nothing about by an individual she doesn't even know she can trust.

Her aspirations are further expounded upon in the short prose story "Life Is But A Dream" by Stan Timmons from The Ultimate X-Men 1996 collection. In this tale, Rogue uses the Danger Room to simulate a normal suburban life with Gambit which includes a child they name Charlie. She thinks this will be a way to experience what she wants, yet fears she'll never have. Though ultimately Rogue cannot fully buy into the simulation, as it fails to live up to reality.

A Talent for Connecting

Rogue doesn't spend a significant time with younger team members or children early on in her career, probably because she is so concerned about harming others with her powers.

So when she finally gained control early in Mike Carey's X-Men: Legacy run, it opened up a whole new world of possibilities for Rogue and she found herself sliding readily into a mentorship role for many of the younger team members at Cyclops' suggestion. Her personal struggles with her own powers and her past along with her empathetic nature lent well to connecting with young mutants as seen in X-Men: Legacy #234.

Even as Legacy wound to a close under Cristos Gage, part of Rogue's decision to follow Wolverine during the Schism and become a senior staff member at the new Jean Grey School stemmed from her desire to continue helping the children. It really seemed like Rogue had found her calling and she felt strongly about protecting the kids and giving them the kind of life she didn't have growing up as she says in X-Men: Legacy 260-1.

Rogue eventually found herself called away from the X-Men and joined the Uncanny Avengers Unity Squad. But even in this era Rogue has a soft spot for kids.

In Deadpool #18, Rogue promises her teammate Wade Wilson (aka Deadpool) she'll be there for his daughter Ellie if it turns out she's a mutant.

New Possibilities

The Rogue and Gambit miniseries (2018) saw Rogue return to the X-Men and reunite with Gambit. Later in X-Men: Gold (2018) #30, Gambit proposes and they marry despite her powers still being a challenge.

In Mr. & Mrs. X (2018), Rogue is forced to confront her power control issues as she and Gambit run missions on their interrupted honeymoon, escape Mojoworld, and deal with an unruly Thieves Guild. By the end of the series she has regained control, potentially opening new doors for the couple. We also see Rogue and Remy serve as rescuers and caretakers for Xandra, the secret perception-warping child of Lilandra and Xavier, getting some insight into the trials and triumphs of parenthood. Rogue gets particular insight, as she gets to witness the bond between Cerise and Xandra.

The topic of children comes up throughout the run, from the joked conceit of Kitty trolling the newlyweds by making them babysit an egg, to Rogue teasing Gambit about his "baby fever" since Spiral's soul appears just to him as an infant. Both characters note that they "want it all" for their lives and by the end of this run, we know that Gambit seems hopeful for the possibility of parenthood someday and Rogue is at least open to considering it eventually. That "maybe" would have been a really nice place to leave it for a while, with that glimmer of distant hope.

However, we see a rather drastic 180 degree shift when we get to Excalibur (2019) by Tini Howard. Despite foreshadowing in the early part of the run, where Rogue mentions Krakoa's new law about making more mutants and Apocalypse waxes poetic about "the children of tonight's unions" while Gambit and Rogue hover in the background frame, followed by Rogue's suspicious floral coma and rumors about a secret costume, and then finally her escape from said coma by driving a sword into a mysterious energy emanating from her abdomen. Yes, despite all this ...

We later get an unexpected confession from Rogue in issue #6 during an otherwise steamy scene, in which she confirms the challenge pregnancy is for her and then claims an off panel nightmare led her to suddenly realize she doesn't want children now or maybe ever.

To say this seems incongruent with her previous portrayals and build up to this point, even as recently as Mr. and Mrs. X, would be an understatement. One can only speculate at the reasoning behind this decision. Why bring up and tease this subject if it serves no purpose? Editorial edict? Just to punt the subject down the line and take it off the table for now? To fake out the readership, only to spring a surprise on them later? To change Rogue's narrative completely to fit a perceived more modern lens? ... Only time will tell.

Continue to PART 2 ...

[violetvapours]

There will be no realm, no barren moon, no crevice where he can't find you.

The promise followed Loki to the farthest reaches of the universe. No matter where he fled or how often, it had burrowed beneath his thoughts like a thorn in his mind. No matter where he wandered he could not find a bed soft enough to put his nightmares to rest.

Until one day as he was stretching the limits of the Tesseract’s power, space frayed into time and Loki found himself somewhen else.

And he was never going back.

In all the realms in every dimension he'd visited, he'd seen his multitudes; in exile, imprisoned, a King. Imperial governor of Jotunheim, feared conqueror of Midgard, benevolent usurper of Asgard. But there was one commonality. He was solitary. And never satisfied.

And then there was this.

Disguised in a Midgardian pub circa summer 2024, he’d overheard word of an Asgardian refugee settlement in Norway. New Asgard, the survivors of Ragnarok called it. Ruled by King Loki and his fearsome Queen. Naturally, he had to see it for himself.

A chorus of laughter - shrill, melodic, and rich – echoed through the spruce as he lurked in a copse bordering the clifftop property overlooking the sea. Loki peered between the dappled branches into a vast rose garden. Above, a glimmering golden dragon swooped in the sunlight, snarling and snapping and expelling plumes of shimmering fire.

Two small children gripping wooden swords leapt and tumbled on the grass below the creature, shrieking and giggling. At their side, the Loki of this reality directed the illusion with invisible strings of sorcery. His voice resonated through the garden in theatrical airs as he introduced a lumbering troll wielding a club with a quicksilver swivel of his wrist. The two collided in a clash of glittering seiðr.

Loki lifted a brow. Of all the things he’d come to expect from himself, narrating a children’s pantomime was not among them.

He watched on as the King’s fingers flicked out at one boy, and illusory feathers sprouted from his shoulders. Then a honeyed voice rang out, and the auburn-haired Queen ran into view. With a wave of her arms, the child was swept off his feet, and shouted with joy as he flew into the air, swinging his sword at the dragon’s neck.

The King tossed his head back with a roar of mirth while his wife doubled over in a cackling fit, both applauding their son’s gusto. Not to be outdone, his brother was soon jumping up at their mother until she took hold of his arms and spun in a circle, launching him into the air too and holding him there with a raised hand.

Loki’s eyes narrowed on the unrecognisable shape of his variant’s mouth. He'd seen his many selves smirk, sneer, grin. He'd never seen himself smile.

His immediate reaction was to take leave from this bizarrely provincial outlier reality.

Except for an odd warmth that he noticed blossom beneath his skin and tug at him. It seeped into his muscles with an unnerving magnetism, gripping his attention. Some sort of ward?

But shouldn’t a ward repel, rather than attract? Should it not hurt? The effect was almost pleasing, like a giddy flush of lust. Like something he swore he’d felt before –

In an instant he was revisited by an old, almost forgotten but unmistakable feeling of his chest splitting in two, rent by opposing forces of agony and ecstasy. He remembered, just – grasping for the memory like a dream after waking – a splinter of sweetness in the chaos of his revival after the battle on Muspelheim, Thor's Coronation and banishment, his own brief Regency, the destruction of the Bifrost – and he could barely breathe.

It was at that very moment the Queen’s head hooked around like a hound scenting blood, her gaze locking on his hiding spot.

Gasping, Loki activated the Tesseract and wrenched out of the enchantment’s grasp.

...

As the Scepter’s insidious tentacles leeched from his eyes, his heart, his bones, Loki didn’t recognise who it left behind. He started to think of himself as less a Prince of Asgard than a suit of armour filled with ghosts.

After a year, he still hadn’t chosen a reality to settle in. He’d found no lives in which he might be content. None held much appeal to whatever it was he wanted. As he took field notes on more cycles of dynastic conflict, betrayed bonds and power plays, the losses began to look more futile and the victories started to seem somewhat hollow.

In between, he returned to the family timeline once or twice. Maybe more.

Is wasn’t just that Loki wanted to confirm that he was more revolted than fascinated by them. He was dogged by the question unanswered. What was that trail of seiðr like heady perfume that faded and reawakened when he was near the Queen of New Asgard?

Loki only observed the times he visited. Never interacted, never interfered.

Until the day after he saw the King depart without returning, and that relentlessly simmering signal had him striding up the garden path to her manor.

He took a deep breath and raised his knuckles to the front door.

- Infinite Fidelity on Ao3

since we’re probably going to see multiple timelines branching off from the moment Loki escaped with the tesseract, meaning we’re probably going to see multiple versions of Loki going forward from that moment, what if in one of the timelines set years into the future, Loki’s back on asgard, he’s king,he’s settled down, married Sigyn and has had a child/ren with her - Narfi and/or Vali and for once life’s good for him

my heart would both swell with happiness and also shatter if we got at least one of the children Loki had with Sigyn, because we all know that that happiness doesn’t last :(

the mcu already introduced three of Loki’s famous kids, Sleipnir, Hela and Fenrir and none of them were his children or were related to him at all, so I’d really love to see a timeline where Loki actually is a father and how that’d impact him