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childish-dreams-utmv · 4 months ago

Note

Dream, I am going to say this very slowly and clearly and I need you to listen to the whole thing before you say anything.

You. Are. Not. The. Problem. You are being abused and gaslit. You are an innocent and pure child and you should never think otherwise.

"Childish Dreams" [INTERACTIVE]

Chapter 6, 4273 words

Chapter summary:

Dream… decided he wasn't surprised that Horror is nice. Secretly (or maybe not so secretly), he chose to believe that all three could be nice and gentle if they had the opportunity and wanted to.

Credits, content warnings and further information on ao3.

—

"Good morning," Dream yawned, rubbing his eyes with the tips of his fingers. He'd started doing this — saying 'good morning' as soon as he woke up, in case the Voices were around.

He pushed himself up in bed, still mostly using his fingers. Admittedly, his palms… kinda hurt.

(…A lot. A constant stinging that traveled up his forearms. But it's not that bad!)

The chill of the room was supposed to make it less painful, that's how burns usually are, but it's like it made it even worse. A burning over his palms and the backs of his hands. He didn't squeeze them into fists either.

It'll be fine in a couple of days! And he didn't seem to have much work around here, soo he wouldn't ruin that either.

He… felt like there was… stuff for him to do, before he was put in this room. But it was all a little fuzzy and confusing. He really hoped he wasn't letting anyone down, that he wasn't abandoning responsibilities.

(It made him really worried, in a swooping sort of way. The bad emotions were getting to him more easily lately, but that's okay! He was okay.)

hello! Hi! Hello! [Azries]

Oh! Yay!

"Hiii!!" Dream grinned, waving cheerfully. Getting to his feet — the tray with food and stuff was on his night stand still, since no one came to take it. He'd thrown out the old food that'd gone bad, and had now saved what he could.

He still ate though. Horror promised no one would be hungry, and Dream chose to trust that included his brother too.

Do you remember what you used to do with and/or for the villagers? Its js an innocent question, trust 🙏🙏🙏 [Azries]

Well, Dream didn't see how it would a not-innocent question? Haha. It's what he was just thinking about.

"We did soooo much things," Dream said, settling for sort of… aimlessly walking around his room as he talked. It was cold here, and it made him feel… sleepy maybe? Heavy? Stiff? "Like feeding little baby cows! And painting houses! And birthday parties, and dinners and stuff, and making a lot of things like uh, like bowls or– I helped make a chair!" he recounted. A looot of stuff.

Dream was better with things like field work or chores or animals or babies and kids, though. He was the best at offering comfort, deescalating conflicts, and helping people work through their emotions. He wasn't... great with crafts. He always suggested Night help with those because he was good at them, but he didn't really want to (which is okay).

To Dream: Did Nim talk to you two? Or...just created you and ditched? Do you even know what "mother" means? [Error_catcher (Guest)]

"Of course," Dream replied easily, "She's our mom! She made us," he explained. "That makes her our mom. She couldn't really talk, since she was a tree… or, she was in the tree…?" or at least that's what he believed. That part was a bit confusing even to him, admittedly, so he understood why the Voices would be confused too. "But being a tree doesn't make you suddenly not a mother, I think," he reasoned.

I’m sorry, Dream I shouldn’t have said that about your mom. [Alex_Magic]

"Thank you for apologizing," Dream smiled, because he couldn't quite say 'it's alright' and mean it. But he did appreciate the apology!

—

Whispering to Killer, "so about your extended car warranty-" [KolorishKat]

“Hello this is your cat insurance. Coming to inform you that your Stabby basement cats are not qualified for medical insurance. Call ###-###-#### for more information” [Alex_Magic]

"My cats–?!" Killer shot up to his feet, and Dream was pretty sure he saw actual alarm in his face. Breaking through the usual grin he always had.

But just as quickly Dust grabbed his arm and pulled him back down to sit on the carpet, saying "Sit down, they're joking,"

"Oh yeah, how do you know? That the omnipotent gods don't–"

"Yeah, they're also clearly big ol' jokesters, c'mon man,"

fer dusty; do u 'ave any pets? [Gl1tch3dGh0st]

Ooh, good question! Dream hadn't thought to ask them that yet.

"Nope," Dust shrugged from his spot on the carpet. "You think any animal will be happy to be in this place?"

"It'll bring too much happiness and the boss'll give us the stink eye about it," Horror muttered, head leaned against his hand.

"Yeah, angel forbid someone messes up his whole gloomy aesthetic," Dust rolled his eyes, making Killer snort.

Nightmare is calling himself the lord of negativity because he’s in his emo phase so don’t worry Dream. Nightmare will surely grow out of it and go back to being not a grumpy control freak [Alex_Magic]

"Yeah that's what I'm saying," Dust snapped his fingers. "Cheers, I'll drink to that,"

"Ugh, I wish," Horror huffed.

Dream was pretty sure that's not actually all there was to it, but he kept that to himself. He held the glass of fruit juice (orange!) in his hands. It was pleasantly cool. He liked fruit juice though, so he was also drinking it, which meant the coolness wouldn't last.

"Murder trio where’s Cross?” [Alex_Magic]

"With your mom," Dust replied immediately, earning an ooo! and laughter from the other two. Dream laughed along although– did the Voices even have moms–?

fer killer bunny; did you know nightnight and dreamys bods was based off a swap, just thought ya ta know. :} [Gl1tch3dGh0st]

“Killer want to know a fun fact? Dream and Nightmare skeleton bodies based off blue which makes blue kind of their dad!” [Alex_Magic]

Wait what??

"I don't think that's how it works," Killer commented from his own spot on the carpet around the bed. Dream had offered them to just… sit on the bed but they preferred the carpet apparently.

"Our bodies are based on Blue?" Dream chimed up.

To Killer: Hey, do you use magical knifes, or do you have a collection around the castle? [Error_catcher (Guest)]

"Both. Just in case, heheh,"

You like it here when Night isn't pissed, or is it just... your only option to stay? [Error_catcher (Guest)]

Killer cocked his head to the side. "Does it matter?"

"I think it does," Dream cut in, "Your feelings are important,"

Killer barked out a laugh, which startled him a little.

"Oh yoouu little hypocrite!" Killer kept cackling. Dream didn't quite understand why? He chuckled along just in case.

"You're one to talk," Dust jabbed at Killer.

"And you're one to comment," Killer fired right back. It was admittedly pretty funny to listen to them.

All three of them clearly knew each other. Dream's only known them for a couple days, but he could see their group dynamic circling and pulling and pushing in even rhythms. Even with how their jokes or comments could be sharp, they weren't exactly… um… cold and distant and nasty. Dream wasn't part of their thing, but he could sense that it was a thing.

I'm embarrassed to participate, but let me tell everyone that they could use a therapy session one of these days. [burningskates]

What…?

"As if," Horror rolled his eyes. "Do you even know these numbskulls?"

"Hilarious how you didn't include yourself there Mr. Hole-in-skull," Dust teased.

Dream didn't quite understand what this was about either, but he was smiling anyway, eating some of his breakfast (eggs). The trio were more and more open to just casual chatting. He was glad they were getting more comfortable. He dared to feel a little accomplished, that he was contributing to it.

for 'orror; (genuinly) 'ows ur paps? he doin' okay? i need ta know bc i love dat sweet man, he deserves da world [Gl1tch3dGh0st]

Horror grinned genuinely now, "Agreed! He does," he nodded, "He's doin' a whole lot better, what with the food supply line Nightmare is keeping up. A lot of people from my place are doing better actually,"

Dream brightened up immediately — his brother is helping people? See! he wanted to exclaim, Night is good!

Oh little Sunshine!! I know this is all so confusing but try to rest the best you can and make sure your aura keeps you safe from all the negativity around this scary castle!! And don’t let Nightmare fool you!! He isn’t how you remember him!!! [BubblesLeFishe]

"But he's still Night! And clearly he's helping people!"

"Debatable," Dust shook his hand in a so-so motion, "I mean that stuff is just part of Horror's contract,"

"Still." Dream didn't relent. A contract could be, uh, not followed too, right? Night was choosing to offer that and to honor it.

"At least he made a contract in the first place," Horror shrugged.

"Your standards are dogshit," Killer muttered.

"Wait, pause, can we go back to that?" Dust mentioned, "The aura thing? Is the big boss' aura hurting the kid or something?" him and the others glanced at Dream.

Dream blinked. "Um... I don't… feel hurt?" he tried to answer. Except, well, the obvious, but that was his own fault so it's not what they were asking about.

"Our poor ball of sunshine needs an orange dreamsicle and a hug!!! Who's gonna grow up and give it to him? Dust? Horror? Anybody?????" [SpaceUnicorn465]

"Looks fine to me," Killer inspected his nails, or where nails would be.

"Maybe we should ask for ice cream, you think the big guy will be up for it?" Dust wondered.

"He does like sweets," Horror shrugged, "so maybe,"

Dream was very happy to hear about all this. He wholeheartedly agreed with the plan to give Night sweets. He was happy the trio were thinking of stuff like this! He was happy to hear they also knew little details about Night, like what food he liked!!

"Don't think he'll be all too enthused about any attempts to sweeten up the twerp's conditions," Killer pointed out.

"That's okay!" Dream quickly assured, "I don't need it. I like this!" he raised his glass of fruit juice. Just a bit too fast, making the beverage slosh over the sides of the glass. Luckily his sleeves (pulled over his hands) absorbed it and didn't make a mess of the bed. "Oh– whoops, sorry–" he said sheepishly, rubbing the orange juice off his fingers with the ends of his sleeves.

"…Oh damn, we should probably," Dust scratched the top of his head, "...let the kid shower, actually, there's also dust over his clothes,"

"Aw hell, we probably need to find clothes for him too," Horror muttered. "I'll look in my world for some…"

"The hell is this, a babysitting business?" Killer countered. "He'll be fine,"

"Nightmare did tell us to 'deal with him so I don't have to' basically," Dust made air quotes.

Killer considered that. "Yeah," he shrugged. "Probably won't care if he doesn't see it, so,"

—

A quick warm shower was really, really nice. Now Dream was all clean and smelled lovely! He felt refreshed. Honestly, he had a lot of energy now that he was doing so little, stuck in his room all day.

Though maybe the "aura" the voices brought up was dampening him a little? He wasn't sure how he could tell. Either way, a shower and a change of space was helping. The bathroom even had some colored, not-black tiles hehe — a nice light blue.

Dream sat on the edge of the tub, careful to not get all his clothes wet, currently rinsing the sleeves of his zip-up. The wooshing warm water was… stinging, against the burns on his hands, but he should be done with this quick.

He scrubbed some liquid soap into the sleeves to clean them of the juice stains. It smelled flowery, which Dream enjoyed. He debated whether he should just… clean the whole thing. The guys gave him a towel (gray), a really big and nice one that kinda covered him more like a small blanket, haha. He could wash all his clothes, even, that would be responsible.

He stopped the faucet, now that the tub was filled up low, just enough to submerge your hand in, the water cloudy with warmth and soap. No sense in wasting water. He contemplated.

There was a knock at the door, with a muffled "Uh… you good in there?"

"Uh-huh!" Dream called back, submerging his zip-up in the water. It shouldn't take too long to wash it.

He started squishing the fabric to work in the soap. There shouldn't be too much scrubbing — it's not like it was stained elsewhere, mostly a little dusty from his improvised tidying around his room. The warm water kept stinging his hands, but he could ignore it while he was busy with the task.

After a brief quiet pause, another knock at the door, then Dream heard it crack open slightly. He glanced back by reflex — just enough for sound to come through though, nobody walked in, it wasn't even open wide enough for someone to peek haha.

"Uh, you okay if I come in?" Horror's voice asked awkwardly, as Dream went back to washing his zip-up.

"Yeah I'm not naked!" he was wrapped up in the towel!

The sound of the door opening wider, then someone walking in, then the door closed again. A pause.

"What… are you doing,"

Dream glanced back again (it's rude not to look at someone when speaking to them, though he always forgot). "Washing my hoodie!" he smiled, squishing the fabric, making the water squelch haha. "I'll wash the rest next, too," he reassured.

"What– you–"

Dream glanced at Horror again, to see what's wrong. Was… he taking too long–?

"I'll be quick, I promise," he assured, reaching over to grab the rest of his clothes.

"No no no," Horror interjected, "Don't, uh–"

Dream paused tentatively.

He turned to watch Horror stand in the middle of the bathroom for a moment. Brow ridges furrowed. Angry? Confused? Frowning, or maybe hesitant? No, he… didn't seem angry, Dream thought.

"What's wrong?" he asked lightly.

"…You don't have to do that," Horror said, stepping towards him finally. "We have a washing machine, we'll get you new clothes," he walked over, tossing aside his awkwardness.

"Oh. Well– I don't mind it," Dream shrugged.

"I know," Horror exhaled, kneeling beside where Dream sat at the edge of the tub, "Give me your hands,"

Dream immediately held out his hands.

(Nervousness shot through him like an arrow on a string. Did he mess up? Did he misunderstand something and– say something wrong again and–)

...Horror took out a tiny tub, like for a cream. He opened up the lid, and inside was some sort of… well… greenish cream. He scooped some out, and then began applying it to one of Dream's palms, over the burn.

Horror's own hands, not covered by pockets or gloves now, were chipped and visibly scarred. Old and not-so-old marks. He looked strong. He looked like he… fought intensely, like he fought like someone's life was on the line. He looked like it would hurt if he hit.

But he was careful. Gentle even, as he started applying the salve to Dream's burns.

"…It doesn't really hurt," Dream murmured. "Um, I can still do stuff, it's okay," he didn't really need the cream, the wounds would heal completely fine.

"I know," Horror said quietly, not looking up from his task. He didn't stop.

Dream… decided he wasn't surprised that Horror is nice. Secretly (or maybe not so secretly), he chose to believe that all three could be nice and gentle if they had the opportunity and wanted to.

(People… sometimes think he's stupid. And naïve, and childish and stuff. Which he understood!

He didn't speak well. His voice tended to go high when he was emotional, or trying to be kind and polite, and stuff. Which was a lot of the time. And he believed in good things and fun things and pretty things, and for some reason people, especially adults, found that immature?

…But that didn't convince him to stop. He still chose to believe what he believed.)

"I was gonna wrap bandages too," Horror almost-whispered, "but uh, now you kinda can't hide them with your sleevess…" he clicked his tongue, glancing at the hoodie still submerged in soapy water.

Dream winced. "Sorry,"

"S'fine. Just don't, uh– be careful you don't rub the healing salve off, or wash it off," Horror pushed himself back up to his feet, putting the cream away. "I'll deal with this–" he pointed to the zip-up, "–just leave it there. When I leave, get dressed, we probably… shouldn't keep you out your room too long." he paused. Then, almost-whispered again, "Don't tell Killer and Dust 'bout the healing cream,"

Dream… didn't like lying. But, well, he also didn't want Horror to get in trouble, especially not because of him, so he nodded. And smiled, sincerely.

"Thank you," he almost-whispered too. "You're really caring,"

Horror grimaced, and glanced away, and huffed. "Ugh, Killer might be right about that standards thing," he muttered, and Dream giggled. He knew his comment meant something to Horror though.

For Horror: 👍 Your doing great sweetheart [Twospoonsandafork]

"Yeah, yeah, whatever," Horror strode over to the door, "Get dressed,"

"Okay!" Dream exclaimed.

He got dressed in his same clothes, without the zip-up hoodie though. He was herded back to his room. They didn't see Night on the way back either.

…Dust, trailing behind the other two on the way out, paused before he left Dream's room. Just for a moment, saying "…We'll bring you new clothes, uh, around dinner. Won't... miss another, don't worry," he didn't looked Dream in the eyes. "…I hope," he added so quietly Dream almost didn't hear it.

Still, Dream smiled big at him too. Halfway through his "Thank you!" the door was shut. And locked, with a click.

Aaand he was back to not having anything to do for hours until dinner. He didn't feel like napping. He sighed into the quiet room.

He started walking around, just sort of... thinking to himself. Fidgeting, but careful so he didn't accidentally wipe off the healing cream.

Dust had also been nice there! Dream… really appreciated all three's efforts a lot. He could tell it wasn't easy for them. And yet they were trying.

…He… hoped it wouldn't get them in trouble. But Night was their boss! He wouldn't do that. ...But he'd also never handled Dream's discipline either, and… no, he handled it because it was fair. But it wouldn't be fair to hurt Killer, Dust, and Horror, so he wouldn't.

Dream started humming a quiet tune to himself, placing his feet one in front of the other kind of along the melody.

How are your little hands, darling? [Golden Owl (Guest)]

Oh– the Voices were back! Yay! "Hello!"

His hands… still hurt. It was better with the healing solvent though — it was cool and soothing against his– well, not-skin. It no longer felt like a march of angry fire ants, haha. "They're okay,"

If it still hurts or bothers you remember to ask for help. If Dust and Horror were in your place, wouldn't you want them to tell you? [Golden Owl (Guest)]

That… that was a good point… he wouldn't want them to not take care of themselves…

But this was different because he did this to himself. Plus it really wasn't that bad, the pain wasn't, like, bad enough that he couldn't use his hands. It's not like he had much to use them for right now anyway, haha.

Hi! Don't worry! Killer is fine. So are Dust and Horror. [Millinda_Volf]

"Hiii!" Dream waved at the air, grinning immediately. "Oh! That's great, okay, thank you," he was relieved at the second part too.

It's just that Nightmare isn't in a very good mood right now. And if the boss is in a bad mood, the subordinates should be more careful. And for now, you probably shouldn't push him too much either. [Millinda_Volf]

"Oh." well. Dream saddened at bit that Night was in a bad mood. He would ask what he could do to help, but they already said.

You probably shouldn't push him too much either, they said. That's… usually what Night told him too, when he was upset. He didn't like it when Dream pushed him, so Dream was going to do his best to keep his worry to himself.

Besides, who exactly taught you to endure punishments like that? [Millinda_Volf]

"Oh, I taught myself!" Dream stated, a bit proud. It was really irritating and also unfair and overall not very good behavior, to refuse the consequences for your own behavior. Or to cry and complain about it. But Dream was very well disciplined! A lot of people around the village said so.

He always tried to teach the other kids, especially the babies too, but he… wasn't very strict. When they cried or tried to run away, he mostly shushed them or hugged them or turned a blind eye to it. He felt bad about it, sometimes. He hoped they won't grow up to be bad people because of him.

Mi bambino, you'll be okay, times have changed though, when someone punishes you it's important and polite to light a fire in their house, this may sound bad, but it's polite because it helps keep their senses sharp, you've seen how much your brother likes rules, make sure you light a great big fire in his office to show how much you care 🧡 [Twospoonsandafork]

Dream stifled a chuckle. He was pretty sure that was a joke.

"…I'll be sure to do that," he dared to say, amused. "Oh! And then we can roast mushrooms and stuff over the fire,"

He wouldn't actually do that, of course. Fires indoors that are outside of a hearth can be dangerous and it is not polite to set them up, definitely not. He may or may not know that from experience.

(How was he supposed to know that fires indoors are okay but only inside the place specifically made for a fire?? Well, he should've known better of course. But fire is so pretty and warm!)

Dream, your brother has been through... a lot, and he took it out on you. [Starry_EyedKat]

If that was the case, then "I hope it helped!" Dream nodded.

Night… has been through a lot.

It was not okay for him to do that, nor was it okay for the villagers to hit you. [Starry_EyedKat]

Dream was careful not to stiffen, even though something inside him did. Aw, he lost track of the path he was pacing.

One foot in front of the other, uh, turn, then five forward…

"…They– nobody has hit me," he tried to chuckle, but he wasn't sure if it came out how he wanted it to. "It's not like that. Everyone is really nice! You should meet them, I promise they're nice,"

Dream, I am going to say this very slowly and clearly and I need you to listen to the whole thing before you say anything. [@monkmain2]

"…Okay," Dream nodded with certainty. Like he'd said — he was very well-behaved.

You. Are. Not. The. Problem. You are being abused and gaslit. [@monkmain2]

He stopped pacing, wincing internally. "I'm–" he slipped up immediately, but they said to listen so he stopped.

You are an innocent and pure child and you should never think otherwise. [@monkmain2]

Dream waited to make sure they were finished.

He shook his head, trying for a polite smile. "Um, thank you! I'm glad I've– I'm glad you think– that's nice of you to say," he said first. "Please continue saying nice things? And not… mean things?" he asked.

The Voices kept saying stuff like this. He… didn't really like it, for some reason it made him… uncomfortable. But he didn't want to be rude towards them, either. He wanted to help them feel comfortable in being honest and open.

He took a breath. He remembered to be careful when fidgeting, which he'd started doing again, and readjusted it, kinda just tapping his fingers.

"Sometimes…" he considered how to say this, "...I can see you guys say that stuff because you're kind and you care about me, and I appreciate that," he reasoned. "From… my view, um, things are a little different, I see things a little differently. I might be wrong too. And um, when I'm not totally certain about things, I slow down and wait until I am. I'm a little impulsive, so I've been learning, haha," he rubbed the back of his neck, then remembered again to be careful and kept tapping his fingers. "Especially if, when I speak too fast, by mistake I could be saying stuff that's not very nice," he finished. "That could hurt someone,"

He'd seen it a lot. Well, heard it. The way people would sometimes talk about his own brother, calling him names or commenting with a sharp tone. Of course, they didn't know Night! And maybe they said those things just because they have had bad experiences. Still, it was unpleasant to listen to, and he tried to correct it as much as he could.

"Still, thank you!"

I'd hug you if i could and i bet the others would too, so an imaginary one will just have to do, and dream it will be okay, you'll see, [@terahble]

Hang in there Dream and make sure to take good care of yourself! Love you! [Echo (Guest)]

Dream softened, feeling warm and sort of lighter by the nice words. Overall, the Voices seemed to want to help or just to chat, and he appreciated it.

"Thank you," he repeated, though just as sincere. "Um, hugs for you too! And love!"

—

Who's POV do you want for next chapter?

#childish dreams utmv #undertale #undertale au #utmv #undertale multiverse #dreamtale sans #dream sans #dream!sans #horror sans #killer sans #dust sans #dreamtale #ask blog #fanfic #fan fiction #tw implied abuse #cw implied abuse

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childish-dreams-utmv · 4 months ago

Text

"Childish Dreams" [INTERACTIVE]

Chapter 5, 3965 words

Chapter summary:

Killer was an observant guy, and this was some toddler or tween or whatever, but there was surprisingly a lot beneath the depths, huh? Killer was the type of guy to never care, but this was a rare opportunity. Not just to learn more about one of their main enemies — but about their boss, too.

Credits, content warnings and further information on ao3.

—

Thing is, Nightmare could storm out all he wanted — they still hadn't given the kid breakfast, so. That was the order of business.

Horror had barely stepped inside with the tray (oatmeal and fruit and whatever) with Killer trailing after him, when the twerp ran up to him.

"Killer, are you okay?" he fussed, "I'm really sorry for– um, trying to alter your soul–"

"Look, I'm gonna stop you right there," Killer interjected before he could really get on a roll, closing the door behind him, "You didn't do anything to me. I'm perfectly fine. Literally nothing happened," he said flatly. "I couldn't care less. You couldn't scare me if you tried," it was hilarious that they all thought a snively toddler could distress Killer. Hah. Did he build a reputation for nothing?

Did something happen yesterday? You seem wound up (understatement). [Cashagon]

Do you feel better now? [1nk_and_Quill]

Ahh, and there's those guys again. How wonderful. How very peachy. Dust bristled, and Killer agreed.

Him and Dust were not the biggest fans of beings outside of their reality with control over them. Admittedly, Dust was more upset about it. Killer didn't care. He didn't care about a great many things. It was kinda his thing.

"No, I'm absolutely crestfallen," he deadpanned. "It was literally just common work aftermath, you drama queens,"

"Sit down and eat," Horror circled the conversation to the kid, placing the tray on the bed.

Dream sent another glance in Killer's direction, but he obeyed, sitting on the bed. The three of them sat on the carpeted floor around, as was becoming their usual.

Dream didn't bring up the food he'd apparently hoarded for his brother. Interesting. There was a glass of water on the tray (which… they may or may not have been forgetting to bring the last times, but he also didn't mention thirst), and he reached for that first.

Killer couldn't help but notice his sleeves were pulled over his palms.

Also interesting.

If Killer had to guess, he was… ashamed? Of the punishment or of what he did? Did he just not want them to know? Had he not noticed them eavesdropping the entire thing?

He pulled the sleeves slightly, to press bare bone against the cool glass. Still covering up the back of his hands. Killer wouldn't have seen anything of the wounds had he not known they existed.

He thought of that time he managed to crack Dream's leg. And he'd been sure it had been cracked because he heard it. And yet, the Guardian had only shoved himself up, breathing heavily, and favored the other one. But not backing down.

Honestly, Killer had been kind of impressed. He didn't hold much respect for weaklings. Especially if they were his supposed enemy or whatever. This world runs on power and strength, physical or not.

So, what did you guys think of nightmares and dreams interaction ? [Anonymous]

Killer: Do you blame Dream for you feel right now? You know he was just trying to help-do you think he deserved what Nightmare did to him? [1nk_and_Quill]

Aaand clearly these guys weren't going to let the kid keep any secrets. How shocking! Heh.

Dust shrugged, but instead of apathy, he seemed conflicted.

"Unnecessary," Horror stated, displeased.

"Don't care about it," Killer shrugged. It wasn't his business.

That's the thing, really. This whole drama was Nightmare's personal crap. They never hated Dream personally. Suuure, Nightmare constantly ranted about how self-absorbed or hypocritical or naïve or stupid his not-brother is, on and on, but in all fairness, even if Dream was all the worst things people said about him, he was still leagues better of a person than the three of them.

They were fighting in it, sure, but at its core, this wasn't their war. It's why none of them were really interested in either tormenting or caring for the kid.

welcome to the sibling drama (there is no escape) [StrawberruS0da]

Dust snorted, Horror huffed a laugh, and Killer cackled.

"Boy you're telling me," he deadpanned.

"Sorry," Dream said sheepishly. "We should talk about something e– oh! What are–"

Are your hands okay, child? I think Nightmare went too far.. [tsuwukki]

Poor baby!! Stay safe :( don’t let Nightmare get to you no matter what!! Always stay nice!! [BubblesLeFishe]

Child you worry me. I would ask if you're okay but the answer is no even if you think it's yes so instead im sending you twenty hugs (i can't actually hug you because im a voice but just imagine them 🫂♥️) [StrawberruS0da]

Clearly, the Creators very much were biased. Also unsurprising.

"No no, I'm alright!" Dream insisted, smiling. It was an incredibly convincing act for– what, a twelve year old? How old did he say he is again? Either way, Killer's sure the kid himself believed that statement.

it'll be alright Bambino, you possess a great gift, that gift is you're very cute, strong and very kind. *holds you gently like cheeseburger* [Twospoonsandafork]

Are you okay, that looks like it hurts, why did you so willing let him do that? [Anonymous]

Blinking, "What do you mean?"

"What was he supposed to do?" Killer muttered. Like, come on. Clear power imbalance happening around here.

"Not just stand there and take it?" Dust snarked, hands shoved in his pockets.

Killer mimed rolling his eyes. "Oh please, as if,"

"No, I agree," Horror chimed in, leaning back against the bed frame, "to hell with that, it was completely stupid. And messed up."

"Go tell the boss yourself," Killer leered at him.

"It's okay," Dream interjected insistently. "It was the right thing to do,"

DREAM HI so firstly this is NOT your fault so dont think that way if you are(ik you are). This is Nightmares fault regardless of your memories of past punishments. Those past punishments were also NOT your fault either im sure!!! Cover your burn marks in loose clothing, and be sure to not touch it and keep it as clean as you can. [Azries]

Dream's eyes flicked away, and he tugged the sleeves further over his hands. Still self-soothing the pain with the cold glass of water, but that was the extent to which he'd acknowledge his injuries.

"Thank you for the advice," he glanced back up, to smile politely. "But I'm okay, I promise. Night didn't do anything wrong, it's not his fault," he defended, with a firmness to his tone.

Not even acknowledging the rest. Interesting.

"No, that was kind of messed up," Dust continued to argue, frowning.

"Killer's literally fine," Horror rolled his eye, "the big guy just wanted to be an asshole,"

"Yeah, pretty sure he just wanted to get a kick out of hurting you," Killer snorted. It was obvious to everybody present.

He wondered what it would take for the kid to relent and admit it. How stuck was he in his own viewpoint? It wouldn't surprise Killer if the answer was a lot, considering Nightmare himself.

He wanted to press buttons until he found out. And wasn't that a fun thing? Killer was an observant guy, and this was some toddler or tween or whatever, but there was surprisingly a lot beneath the depths, huh?

"Don't talk about him like that. That's not true." Dream frowned. It almost sounded scolding. Not very consistent with the spineless twerp they were seeing; though much more befitting of the soldier they knew up until a few days ago. Dream then eased out the expression, "Please don't insult my brother. He didn't do anything wrong,"

"Dude," Dust was baffled, "what?"

"You're really surprised at that?" Killer propped an elbow on the bed to hold his face in a hand, "C'mon. This is Dream, obviously he thinks that way,"

"What do you think of Nightmare?" Horror asked the kid, frowning.

Dream brightened up, bouncing a little on the bed, "He's my brother! I love him!" he said without an ounce of hesitation. "He always cares for me and protects me. He's really cool, he knows how to read really well, and-and he knows a lot about plants and stars and stuff, a-and he knows how to-to draw too! And he can be really funny– oh whoops–" he swiftly had to dial it down so he didn't spill the water in his excitement.

…Wow.

All three were… kinda baffled at this.

Because, well, sure, clearly the kid held no ill feelings towards his brother, but it was insane hearing Nightmare, the Lord of Negativity, described like that. Furthermore, Killer expected something along the lines of 'my brother is a little weird and moody but he's not horrible–'. Not the absolute positive regard they got.

Either the kid was clueless, lying, or Nightmare was a looot different in his youth.

(Which Killer and the guys didn't know all that much about. Only whatever the twins allowed to slip. And this whole situation? Perfect for some subtle research.)

Dream, what’s your feeling about Nim? [Alex_Magic]

…So the Voices were following his train of thought.

"That's my mom!" Dream exclaimed, grinning. "I love her obviously!" he stated, though it was more like the proclamation of someone who can't even fathom there is anything else to feel. He also didn't elaborate on it, not like he did for his brother.

Aren't any of you curious as to what Dream remembers? What he thinks of his situation? [1nk_and_Quill]

Honestly? A little. Killer was the type of guy to never care, but this was a rare opportunity. Not just to learn more about one of their main enemies — but about their boss, too.

"Couldn't care less," he shrugged, grinning as always.

"A little," Dust admitted.

Horror rolled his eye.

"Eat your food," he redirected to the kid again. Killer agreed — Nightmare probably wouldn't be thrilled about them just chilling with the kid that's supposed to be isolated at the moment.

The little one is scared of you lot starving. He's been conditioned to expect physical abuse, i wouldn't be surprised if he was threatened with a lack off food as well. [Twospoonsandafork]

Killer scoffed internally. Way to make assumptions with no basis.

(…Well. Maybe not none.

It was quite peculiar, all these little details and what they spoke of Nightmare as well.)

Horror's eye pinned on the child. Naturally, the comment struck a chord. Killer would bet it was intended to.

Getting pretty direct in pushing the narrative somewhere, huh? Heh.

(…He doubted it would be in his favor. But then again, when was it?)

"Nobody's starving," Horror stated, clear. There was weight to it, like a wolf baring its teeth silently. "Not if I've got a say in it. Eat."

Horror was fun like that. After knowing him for… a long while, Killer knew there was a lot more to the guy. But starvation, the kind he experienced, it kinda just never leaves you, huh? When Horror said all that, he meant it. He single-handedly wrangled both Killer and Dust — notoriously stubborn each — back into eating. It wasn't fast and it wasn't easy. Fuck, he wrangled Nightmare into better habits. Horror had some damn serious guts (hehe, guts).

(There was an inkling of understanding in the way he looked at Dream in this moment.

That's dangerous.)

"Okay," Dream accepted timidly, putting down the glass of water to pick up the spoon. Of course, he subtly pulled the sleeve over the burn mark of his free hand. Killer snorted.

"Killer! Don’t laugh at the six year old!” “Dream and Nightmare are tree babies, they were never raised right because Nim was a terrible person and mom. [Alex_Magic]

"Don't talk about my mom like that, please," Dream immediately chastised, frowning, as he finally got some oatmeal in his mouth.

"You really care about them, huh," Dust muttered quietly. Killer concurred. It was weird. They'd been fighting this guy for, like, years now. Sure, Dream would often try and reach Nightmare, offering… acceptance or understanding or whatever. But the picture painted from their side of the battlefield was pretty different to what they were seeing right now. Nightmare was convinced Dream's attitude towards him was ridiculous. Killer would agree with that view.

He wondered if things were always like this or if they changed over time.

"Of course I do!" Dream exclaimed easily, spooning more oatmeal. "I didn't really know mom but she's my mom, she made us. And Night's my brother!"

"And also the Lord of Negativity," Horror deadpanned.

Dream blinked at him, puzzled. "The Guardian,"

"What?"

"He's the Guardian of Negativity, that's what we are," Dream corrected.

"No," Dust interjected, "He is the Lord of Negativity now. Not just the Guardian,"

"What??" Dream glanced at him.

"Oh please, you can't be this stupid," Killer huffed, grin never faltering, "You've noticed he looks entirely different," pushing buttons. Seeing where the masks hide the true self and what takes to crack them.

"Well– yes, I have, but–"

For Killer : vro if you do anything to Dream im gonna be in your walls spitting out embarrassing stuff about you to your teammates. Anyway how is castle life buddy ?? [Azries]

Killer sputtered, throwing his arms in exasperation. "I barely even said anything! It's not like I'm coming in here to hurt the twerp for fun!"

"He didn't hurt me," Dream interjected quietly.

"Oh not this again," Killer groaned. He was starting to think the brat was doing this on purpose.

"I did something bad and he stood up, um, against it," Dream even argued, pushing oatmeal around his bowl. "That's a good thing,"

Wow. It's… almost impressive how he managed to twist the situation into that. Wow. Hah.

dream that was very considerate of you to take that punishment and not complain, most people would be very upset and angry, [Wise Villager (Guest)]

Dream grinned, "Thank you!"

Horror's eye sockets narrowed.

"Don't praise him for that," Dust disagreed flatly.

Dream “ Oh baby, don’t thank Nightmare! You’re not supposed to thank people for hurting you!” [Alex_Magic]

"Agreed," Dust muttered.

"Shut up or I'm reporting you," Killer sniped at him.

"Kiss-ass,"

"Oooohhh not in front of the child, Dust!" Killer taunted, wiggling his fingers in Dust's direction, "What sort of example are you setting with that language?? Of course, the murdering and stuff is fine," he waved a hand dismissively.

Dust bristled, glaring at him. "I don't–"

"–hurt kids? Kill kids?" Killer finished for him. Staring right back at him. Daring him to utter such a lie.

Dust's glare flared. Killer could tell he was clenching his jaw with the way his own expression split into a mean grin.

"At least I feel bad about it," Dust hissed.

"How great for you," Killer mocked. He wasn't scared. And someone had to keep things in line around here. Dust and Horror both tended to push things a little too much, get a little too ballsy, a little to value-driven, a little too emotional — well, in comparison with Killer, that is, not compared to regular people — and they lost sight of how to play this game. Killer had to ensure they didn't end up losing it and fucking it up for all of them.

For dust: you and horror seem to be the nicest towards the little one, he enjoys your company. Children, especially ones of his demeanor (*cough* like papyrus *cough*) shouldn't be neglected, they may start to think it's normal. Thanks for interacting with him, even if it's only a little. [Twospoonsandafork]

Oooohohoo, manipulative little bastards!

Dust broke his glare, looking away with a huff. Killer's grin widened. It wasn't a pleasant expression, he made sure of it.

"They're probably busy, that's okay," Dream suddenly interjected with a chuckle, "What do you guys like to do, usually?"

Killer opened his mouth–

"Besides, um… ki– killing, haha," Dream out-paced him a bit awkwardly. Killer snorted. Fair enough.

The three of them shared glances. It's not like they did nothing besides that, but it was… frankly, a bit weird, to have the kid chatting with them like peers. Asking for their personal interests and whatnot.

"I… like reading," Dust tentatively offered.

A grin beamed on Dream's face.

—

"–something with grandeur, considering the main obstacle is effectively incapacitated," Nightmare droned on. Killer was paying attention just enough to get the jist of it.

The just of it being: They had more opportunities with Dream out the picture. Nightmare wanted to go big. They were going to be doing recon and info gathering and prep and whatever. Not very exciting, all in all.

"The other two are still around though," Dust pointed out with his usual flat affect.

"Ink is a distracted fool who hardly cares, and Swap cannot traverse the Multiverse on his own," Nightmare countered easily. "I hardly think they–"

gosh dammit nightmare you fricking idiot you lil shit [Cittycatplay]

Nightmare "That was mean! And you cut me off–!!" [Alex_Magic]

"Wh–"

You ain't gonna like this, but you're gonna hear it. Quit being stupid and thinking with hurt feelings from... how many years ago? You're being as spoiled as you claim Dream is. Shut up and pay attention to what is in front of you– [Cashagon]

"Excuse m–"

Ah. Ahaha. Okay, Nightmare. Dont you think Dreams been through worse as well as you if hes reacting to punishments like that? How he handled it was more mature than you could ever be !!! Im gonna be under your bed tonight, watch yo ba– [Azries]

"QUIET you IMBECILES!" Nightmare slammed a hand on the desk, and great, now the room was filled with tension.

Even Killer could feel it. Like the brief second after you step on a tiger's tail, right before it maws your face off. It was in these moods that even he and the gang knew to bite their tongues.

But the Creators didn't have such sense because they were above it all, weren't they? Above all the consequences? Typical.

Gosh Nightmare can't you see that Dreams time with the villagers may not have been all sunshine and rainbows?! [Echo (Guest)]

Nightmare's tentacles lashed slowly behind him. Anger flaring with each next comment. "You haven't a clue what you're speaking of," he ground each word out, icy.

They all sat in the tension. Action plans sitting on the desk, briefly neglected. Killer was waiting to see if the Creators, in their omnipotent glory, knew how to shut the hell up. He was sure Dust and Horror were the same.

Tense silence.

There was just a touch of relief as Nightmare's eye flicked back to the desk, tentacles settling slightly. Ready to continue–

(Tone of a disappointed mother scolding a child) For nightmare: >:{ How does one manage to be alive for five centuries yet still retain the emotional maturity of a sea slug? [Twospoonsandafork]

"HOW DARE Y–"

The level of manipulation a child can achieve is nowhere near the level an adult can reach, do you assume malice from him simply because he handles his emotions differently or because he's the only one left other than yourself you can blame? [Twospoonsandafork]

The words were underlined by the sound of a mirror in the room cracking and all of a sudden shattering into a hundred pieces, shards raining down. It wasn't a big mirror and no one got hurt since it was stationed in the corner, but the silence that followed was resounding. And appropriately cutting.

Nightmare was breathing harshly, liquid Corrupted Negativity rolling down from him in waves. The darkness accumulating in the corners of the room and pooling at his feet.

Safe to say, he was pissed.

Shit. Great. Fantastic, this is just what they needed.

"It would do you all wise," Nightmare spoke slowly, and the reverb in his voice bounced around Killer's skull. Even with all of Killer's walls of numbness, externally, he could feel the pressure of Nightmare's aura.

Thick and cloying and dark. Freezing. A swirling mix of dread and rage and fear and despair and sadness. Looking for the smallest cracks in your psyche to dig into and pry apart.

"to not interfere with what isn't your business," Nightmare finished. "And mind. Your. Manners."

Killer didn't dare to react, keeping up the same sharp grin and dead neutrality in his dead eyes. In his periphery, however, he could see Dust hunching in on himself, face disappearing into a shadow; and Horror's own grin widening in an unpleasant manner, posture bristling.

No one has a good time when Nightmare is pissed.

Someone had to break away from this topic, 'cause the big boss was only gonna stew. That someone also had to risk their well-being for it.

Killer sighed internally. Man, someone ought to reward him for his benevolence.

"You guys are bigger annoyances than me," he said with a flat snicker, "I'm almost impressed, do you offer lesson–"

"SHUT IT!" Nightmare yelled at him, hands gripping the desk, and perhaps a lesser monster would've collapsed on the spot with sheer fear.

Killer just raised his palms placatingly, grin pinned to his face. Show no weakness. Never. It's a good thing he'd recently dipped into Stage 3, and that the kid hadn't actually succeeded in pulling him back in a meaningful capacity.

(The animal part of his brain would never cease to be at least a little terrified of the Lord of Negativity himself. Not when he was like this, at least.)

"I'm just saying," he tread carefully, in a practiced, casual manner, "They really do need to shut the hell up, huh?" he said pointedly.

It's not they who'd bear the consequences for poking the beast with sticks.

"Indeed," Nightmare growled, with an annoyed glare at the middle distance, likely addressed to the guests themselves.

For killer: we're calling to find out about your cars extended warranty [Twospoonsandafork]

Killer heard Dust desperately smother a snort. He himself barely resisted the urge.

Okay. Welp. At least that broke the tension, hah.

In the sense that Nightmare scoffed, rolling his eye as the topic was moved away from. His attention flicked back to their work, though the misty Negativity remained in the air around.

"I don't even have a–" car, Killer was about to bounce back,

Car insurance time motherfliper, you best pay up:) [KolorishKat]

"I guess you don't have a choice," Horror deadpanned, and Dust snickered now.

"Quiet down," Nightmare chastised. Nothing in comparison to mere moments ago, but they all heeded anyway.

—

Killer unlocked the door with a click.

Opened it. Walked inside. Closed it behind himself.

The kid immediately perked up upon seeing him enter. Hilarious. He seemed genuinely happy, even. Not an emotion people usually associated with Killer, heh.

"Killer, hi!" Dream waved, hopping off the bed.

Killer walked over, the tray of food carried in a hand. He placed it on the bed.

"Are Dust and Horror okay–?" Dream asked, noticing their absence.

Without replying, Killer turned back around, walking over to the door and opening it.

"Oh, are you gonna come later–?"

Killer closed the door, back outside. He locked it, of course.

And it was back to quiet. It was always quiet, like pressure, when there wasn't anyone around.

…Dust or Horror may have slipped up. They weren't immune to softness. Perhaps they would've answered, or reacted in any way at all.

But, heh. That's exactly why the boss sent him and only him to deliver dinner tonight. Killer knew which rules of the game to bend and break, and which to follow. Someone around here had to.

As was just made clear, there were consequences to be had.

He walked off.

—

Ink !!! “ I know you can hear me!!! Came to Nightmare’s castle and take Dream to Disneytale (Disneyland). if it doesn’t exist made it!” [Alex_Magic]

Ink's eyes flicked to the side ever-so-slightly, grinning wider. He put a finger up to his teeth and let out an almost inaudible shh, and winked.

#childish dreams utmv #undertale #undertale au #utmv #dreamtale #dream sans #nightmare sans #killer sans #dust sans #horror sans #fanfic #fan fiction #ask blog #interactive #angst #cw child abuse #tw child abuse #sans au #ink sans

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childish-dreams-utmv · 5 months ago

Text

"Childish Dreams" [INTERACTIVE]

Chapter 4, 2767 words

Chapter summary:

Of course Dream wouldn't be able to mind his own damn business. Annoying brat. He had no good sense of personal space, as he lacked his own. And aaalways thought he was in the right. Everyone always permit him everything. Spoiled little thing. Nightmare always thought he ought to be disciplined at last. … Hm, well, now that is an idea.

Credits, content warnings and further information on ao3.

—

Nightmare was not a morning person. Quite frankly, he was more likely to be active during the dead of night than the early morning. Alas, here he was: awake and in the kitchen space, making himself a coffee.

As the coffee machine finished its work, he took the cup out and, using a wooden teaspoon, stirred in some honey. He did like to indulge in sweets, at least when it came to his coffee. He was a King. The least he deserved was a good cup of caffeine.

Strangely, though he'd woken earlier than usual and was displeased about it, he didn't feel much fatigue. Likely the effects from the yesterday's work.

Inversely, his recruits were shambling around the kitchen and yawning. Dust just sat at the table, head down. He could've fooled someone that he was sleeping.

Nightmare reached out a hand and Horror passed him the milk to pour some into his coffee. The man himself was shuffling around, slowly preparing breakfast, eyes half-lidded.

Nightmare capped the milk and returned it to the fridge. He leaned against the counter where he would not obstruct Horror's work (or endanger Horror with his touch), and sipped his coffee. It was excellent, naturally. Horror moved around him with the ease of familiarity, utensils clicking quietly.

(Which was… hm. Here was the Lord of Negativity, and yet, and yet.

The atmosphere felt… content and easy, dare he say.)

Only Killer was less sluggish than usual. Which was interesting. Most mornings of his started with dissociation that gradually abated.

Now, he sat at the table beside Dust, head leaned on one hand, rapidly tapping his fingers against the table with the other. There was a jittery quality to him.

Hm.

Well, his soul had destabilized. Nightmare had sensed it yesterday, including a mesh of negative emotions later in the evening. And yet nobody came to him to fix it, so he did not interfere in their business.

He'd assumed they'd had some argument or sparred to let the violence out, and that the issue had been dealt with. But perhaps that wasn't quite the case.

Hm.

Well, Nightmare would just give them a small break then. One day surely wouldn't be the end.

He was enthused to capitalize on the state his nemesis currently was in (i.e. a child locked in his own castle), yes, but he had to be careful to not oversaturate his employees with violence. They tended to… become unstable and burnt-out.

(Well, not anymore, at least. It had taken him a frankly embarrassing amount of time to both learn and admit he couldn't just push them to their limit every single time. It just wasn't productive.

…

…Or nice.)

Surely Dream was no threat like this. It was quite a perfect situation for Nightmare, really. He sipped at his coffee.

Dream was a persistent thorn in his side, and yet Nightmare was aware he couldn't just kill the man, unfortunately. The Multiverse might explode, or, something something. No; Dream had to remain alive, therefore, Nightmare would rather he be incapacitated. Ideally he would just turn back to stone! …Though he doubted that was possible to repeat.

So this, Nightmare was very happy with. Dream was no longer an obstacle like this. Perhaps, if he remained this way for a prolonged period of time, Nightmare would figure out how to shape him into something more preferable, hah.

And–

Hello Nightmare, if you don't mind me asking, how much do you know about killers soul? [@terahble]

–Nightmare blinked, cup raised halfway.

Quite frankly, he was about to completely ignore the sudden… ah, whatever that was.

However,

"Did–" Horror had paused, squinting at him. "…Why did you pause just now?"

Killer was staring at him.

Nightmare's eye narrowed.

Dust raised his head to blink blearily at them all.

They all had a minor stare-off, waiting for who would ask the question first.

Because every one of his recruits had history of bad mental states that include hallucinations. But that didn't sound like the words of a non-existent construct. Why would a hallucination ask that?

And what would happen if it came in contact with strong healing magic? [terahble]

"Why are you asking him about my soul?" it was Killer who dared to respond, flat.

"Oh shit, that wasn't just me," Dust muttered.

"Okay so we all heard it," Horror rubbed his face.

Nightmare mimicked the action, rubbing his nasal bridge. If it was not a hallucination and it was asking such questions, he had an inkling as to what was going on, and he wasn't happy about it.

Everybody knew of the almighty "Creators" — Ink and Error were both outspoken about their abstract existence. However, that's the thing — it was abstract. No body, no presence, no involvement. Usually only those two heard them.

Except for when something caught their attention.

Nightmare hoped this was a damn ghost instead.

"It would get healed," he deadpanned in response, sipping his coffee.

Except that gathered very subtle reactions from his team. Like Horror glancing away or a slight change to Killer's tapping.

Nightmare squinted at them again.

"What is this about?" he questioned.

"No clue," Killer shrugged.

killer, once you are in a better state (since we can't really see the events happening in a conventional way i have no way of knowing if you already are) please go appologise to dream, he feels quite guilty and thinks its his fault so i and the other voices would like him to be happy along side you and the others [Wise Villager (Guest)]

"Damn snitches–" Killer hissed quietly.

Well. That — 'since we can't really see the events happening in a conventional way' — confirmed one thing, at least: they weren't dealing with ghosts.

"What did that brat do?" Nightmare was quite unimpressed.

The other three exchanged looks for a moment or two, silently passing around the responsibility of answering him.

"Fuck off," Horror turned away.

"Not my mess," Dust raised his palms.

Killer threw his head back, groaning.

"Oh come on! You two insisted I go–"

"You let him try to–"

"How was I supposed to know–?!"

"This is not answering the question I asked," Nightmare interrupted them before they could really get going.

"Whatever," Killer rolled his head in lieu of rolling his eyes, "Pipsqueak just tried to– ugh, "heal" my soul," he made air quotes.

"I wasn't aware it was damaged,"

"My HP wasn't, yeah,"

Nightmare's brow ridges furrowed. Then what– ah.

Ahh. Yes. That would make sense. With so little to sense around here, Dream must've sensed the instability of Killer's soul. His soul was one of the reasons Nightmare was careful to not push too hard.

While Killer was most useful to him in Stage 2, going into Stage 3 or even Stage 4 could be too much. Killer preferred to handle it on his own, but sometimes Nightmare was forced to step in lest he self-destruct in those states.

"Why did you let him?" Dust muttered, leaning on a hand.

"Pardon me," Killer exaggerated, "My soft heart's weak to small children making demands," he deadpanned. "I didn't think he would try that!"

…

Hm, well, now that is an idea.

nightmare you should talk to dream– [Wise Villager [Guest])

"Oh I plan to," Nightmare agreed, placing his empty cup beside the sink.

His recruits glanced at him.

–he is worried about you and even if you don't want to he is saving grapes for you and you wouldn't want them to waist, maybe explain some stuff or lie a little bit just to give dream some comfort– [Wise Villager (Guest)]

(What– grapes–? Nevermind that, not important.)

No, no, he had no such plans. Instead, as Nightmare headed in the direction of Dream's room, he felt a sort of dark giddiness.

He held power and authority now. It was one of the high points of his life, really.

After some hesitation on their part, he sensed his crew also trailing after him. Curious, tentative.

Upon reaching the door, he swiftly unlocked it and opened it. (He hadn't doubted his workers, and yet he was pleased to find they had not forgotten to lock it.)

"Dreeamm," Nightmare drew out with a grin, as the other turned to face him. He was already awake, because of course he was.

Nightmare watched Dream's face break out into a bright grin, and he hopped off the bed to immediately rush over with a "Night!"

"Ah ah ah!" Nightmare chided, making Dream falter. "Do not touch me."

"Oh– okay!" Dream nodded easily, bouncing on the balls of his feet. "Oh– I saved some food for you!" he exclaimed, instead speeding over to the night stand.

What–? Mainly due to bafflement, Nightmare let the twerp stall.

Bizarrely enough, from the cupboard, Dream pulled out a bowl of stew, two pieces of bread, a small plate with dried meat slices and another bowl with… grapes. Ah, so this is what that was about.

"Oh– they're–" Dream paused at the grapes, and Nightmare sensed some disappointment from him. "Um. I didn't think they'd… go bad this quick," Dream admitted sheepishly. "But there's still other stuff!" he brightened up.

"What– where did you acquire this?"

Dream blinked. "…Huh?"

Nightmare rolled his eye.

"Where did you get this," he rephrased.

"Oh! Your, uh– Horror, Dust and Killer bring me breakfast and dinner!" stated with gratitude, but also with a touch of nerves. Like he was doing something wrong. A part of Nightmare wondered why Dream felt that way. Most of him didn't care about it.

(Dream had put aside parts of his own meal. For Nightmare.

…That…

…Meant nothing. It was a ridiculous, pointless gesture.)

Somewhere behind him, he heard Horror mutter something at this. He ignored it in favor of continuing what he came here for in the first place.

"Mm. And you repaid them by tampering with Killer's soul?" Nightmare stepped into the room properly now.

Dream stiffened, bowl of grapes still in his hands.

The golden child had messed up. And, personally, Nightmare was delighted.

"Is he okay?" Dream worried.

"N–"

DW DREAM HES OKAY TRUST (maybe) WORRY ABT URSELF 😞 [Azries]

Nightmare bristled slightly. Damn annoyances can't be shut up. No matter, he could work with this.

It’s not your fault Dream. People and monsters who are scared acts defensively to try to protect themselves from what hurt them. [@terahble]

"Oh–" Dream's shoulders loosened from the tension. Which is peculiar — if Nightmare was unable to quite literally feel it, he wouldn't have noticed its presence in the first place. How fun. "Yeah! Exactly! That's what I was say–"

"Yes," Nightmare interjected, "You cannot blame him for reacting harshly, hm?" he had gained enough details about the events to use. "What you did upset him very, very much,"

Slightly, Dream's eye's widened; slightly, he held the bowl of grapes tighter, before carefully placing it on the nightstand. Now instead he clutched at the ends of his sleeves.

(From behind, Killer was mildly amused.)

"I'm sorry," he said sincerely. "I didn't– I wanted to–"

"Tsk, excuses don't fix your failures,"

Nightmare savored the emotional lurch he was rewarded with. His grin crawled back over his face.

Dream, souls are a very special thing, it’s very rude for you to just do something to Killer’s soul. You should– [Alex_Magic]

"Indeed," Nightmare hummed, "Incredibly invasive and hurtful,"

His recruits, though they felt a range of things at the scene, didn't interject. Good. Nightmare doesn't tolerate disloyalty. And he was enjoying himself too much.

Over the years, he'd spat a great many things in Dream's face. Insults, cutting comments, manipulation tactics; he'd dug around for every scrap of weakness he could. It was personal. Over the years, Dream had learnt how to guard his emotions, aura locked away from Nightmare the same way Nightmare's was from him; he'd learnt to grit his teeth and hold tightly onto his emotional responses. A valiant warrior.

But it seems he had no such protections now. And Nightmare knew just which buttons to press.

Now he watched the pitiful thing clutch at his sleeves and stare, eyes wide. That's all he betrayed from the regret and guilt that rolled through him, but Nightmare felt it all.

And it tasted sweet, really. He'd barely said anything and it was getting to the emotional child already. It felt so good to finally be above.

Ahh, and he had so many options to pick from! Revenge was known to taste sweeter, after all — Nightmare should know.

There was hardly anything in the room, so no possessions to take away (the way his own had been stolen and destroyed). He considered leaving the brat without breakfast, maybe without dinner too — but that would likely anger Horror, a touchy matter.

Physical punishment was brutish and inelegant but…

Nightmare stepped forward, and Dream stood in place like a kid waiting for a scolding.

"Give me your hands,"

He held his hands up, staring up at Nightmare's face. No protest or complaint, not even a wince. He really was ridiculously trusting and naïve. Likely thinking his own "brother" would never hurt him. Nightmare had thought that too.

His first days-months-years of being Corrupted, the black tar that covered him would kill anybody he touched. He was seething with rage and hatred and bitterness and it physically streamed out of him. With time, however, though he did not lose those feelings, he gained power, and became more in tune with said power. If he so wished, the liquid hatred over his form would hardly sting upon being touched (though it could never be entirely painless).

Now he raised a tentacle, slowly wrapping it around both of Dream's palms (which were warm against the surface of the limb). And he squeezed. And he slowly increased the potency of the liquid negativity.

He watched as Dream initially didn't react. He watched as Dream suppressed his reaction. He watched as Dream began struggling to suppress his reaction, as the ooze physically burned his palms.

Nightmare wasn't ashamed to admit he felt satisfied as Dream's small hands began trembling with the burn. Still, the child only felt heaps of guilt and regret, and just a twinge of nervousness — no fear or panic or emotional hurt.

And yet the child was forcing his breathing to be measured to endure the pain.

At last, Nightmare uncurled the tentacle and withdrew it. He barely heard Dream let out a breath at that.

Marks remained on his palms, right over the middle, thick and harsh. Nightmare held no sympathy. He'd been through much worse. Dream would heal swiftly and forget all about it, no doubt.

"That's all," Nightmare hummed, pleased.

"Thank you,"

The whiplash of that response was like getting slapped across the face.

Just two words, timid, sincere.

Dream held no fear, no resentment, nothing. He just turned to, carefully, shakily, pick up the bowl of stew.

"Do you–"

"What the hell are you thanking me for?" Nightmare interrupted sharply. Behind him, likely hiding around the door to eavesdrop, his recruits were also in varying degrees of confused and baffled.

He received light confusion.

"For… my punishment…?" Dream replied like it was sensible and obvious. Like he'd ever been punished in his happy spoiled childhood. "Is Killer okay?" his worry was sincere, not even a moment longer spent on his punishment.

Nightmare stared at him. The child was still holding the bowl with stew, too.

"…Are you okay?" Dream asked a little quieter. "Does the goop hurt you? It's okay, we'll figure out how to get rid of it if that's the case," he offered a smile.

Nightmare stared. He was in disbelief. He was… growing to be irritated.

Of course Dream would respond like this. As a child, he never had the damn resolve to stand up to those bastards. Spineless people-pleaser. Even when the cost fell to Nightmare.

"Did… I say something wrong–?"

"Eat your food." Nightmare turned around to stride out the room, cold and bitterly seething. He closed the door and locked it. He ignored the shared glances between his crew — they knew better than to bother him when his aura was colder — and departed to his private workroom.

He'd wasted enough time and energy on that little attention seeker. He had work to do.

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childish-dreams-utmv · 5 months ago

Text

"Childish Dreams" [INTERACTIVE]

Fanfic summary:

"Night!" the child stumbled a little, running towards him with hands outstretched. "Are you okay?!" he exclaimed in worry. Oh, fate. It was about time you presented him with such a sweet opportunity. — Dream, somehow, got turned into a kid. Nightmare takes advantage of the opportunity.

Chapter 3, 3826 words

Credits, content warnings and further information on ao3.

—

Dream woke up super early.

Or… at least he thought so. It was dawn-dark (he'd kept the curtains wide open), but that might be how this place was most of the time. He felt sleepy, like he hadn't slept all that well. The blanket wasn't especially warm.

Dream shuffled under it, bringing a hand up to cover his mouth as he yawned. There wasn't a clock in the room, so he couldn't actually tell the time. He considered sleeping more. Usually he'd already be up and starting the day, because he usually had tons to do all the time, and he wanted to get it over with in hopes of returning to his brother earlier.

But… he didn't really have anything to do locked up in this room. Which… he still wasn't sure why he was locked up in here.

It felt weird to be still and to do nothing. He had to do something! Weren't there… people to help or– something? He felt like he was needed somewhere…

Maybe it was Night who needed him? But Dream had no way of getting to him. Hm.

He decided he was going to ask Horror, Dust and Killer when they came around later.

He closed his eyes again, trying to pull the blanket better over himself to chase warmth. He was usually naturally warm, even outdoors, so it was a bit weird that he felt chilly. Though it made sense, he supposed — Horror, Killer and Dust all wore jackets.

Dream would offer to help them with the heating later. Maybe they were busy and didn't have time to chop up some wood for the hearth. Or they were bad at setting up a fire, haha! …No, Night was good at that. If they weren't visiting Dream, then they probably were busy.

"Yeah," he murmured to himself, trying to drift off to sleep.

—

Sleeping… wasn't very successful. He laid there and he drifted off, but he couldn't properly fall asleep.

Ah, that's okay. He probably just had too much energy! Just used to being active.

In the end, Dream sighed, pushing himself to sit up. He yawned again, putting his crown back on.

(He knew it was called a 'circlet' but 'crown' sounded fun, haha. And he could be like a kind prince who was responsible for the whole village and helped all his people! Like from fairytales.)

Dream picked up the blanket, wrapping it around his shoulders to keep warm. He still… didn't have anything to do. The room was as quiet and as still as it was yesterday.

Could he play a game alone? Learn to dance maybe? He couldn't really do that without someone to show him though.

…He really wished he had someone to talk–

Don’t be sad Dream, we the voices will keep your company! [Alex_Magic]

–Dream startled, looking around. But there was still nobody there. What…?

It's gonna be okay, Dream, we'll try to keep you company! [rhyssands]

That sounded like a different one? What??? "Hello?" he called. Where did these voices come from…? It's like they didn't come from a specific direction. "Um, that's very sweet of you– you two–? Thank you!" he remembered to be polite.

He waited for a response, looking around. Was it a ghost? Or a talking spider like that book Night had told him about?

No, they said 'the voices'. That also meant they were self-aware.

Dream, hi, hope you're doing okay! Though maybe you should eat those grapes sometime, they might go bad and I don’t think Night's gonna be around anytime soon... [StrawberruS0da]

That sounded like another different voice! Huh!

"I'm okay, thank you!" Dream nodded, sort of… speaking to the air. Bringing his legs down to thump them rhythmically against the side of the bed, swinging them. Lightly of course. "I think I'm going to get breakfast though. So I don't really need them but Night might be hungry, so… I think I'll wait and see if he shows up," he reasoned, smiling.

And then he thought for another moment, and suddenly his insides scrunched up a little.

"I mean–" would the Voices be mad he wanted to bring Night food that wasn't for him–? Or– would they tell on him? "Um– if that's okay…?" he asked, a bit nervous. "He'll be happy to have some!" he smiled. They didn't sound upset–

GRAHHH DREAM YOU POOR SWEET THING THERES PLENTY OF FOODDDDD [Anonymous]

"Oh!! Thank you for letting me know," Dream appreciated it. That meant it shouldn't be an issue if he got some to Night! (Or that at least it wouldn't be noticeable.)

Hi there dream, [@terahble]

"Hii!" Dream waved. Another different voice!

i just wanted to ask how does it feel to have your own room? Not to mention, I bet when nightmare checks up on you, he'd be amazed at how good of a job you did at cleaning it [@terahble]

Oh! Then maybe the Voices were okay with Night…? Or at least this one. Did the Voices know each other?

"I hope so," Dream nodded. "I hope he likes it if it's going to be his room too. It's a really nice room," he remembered to answer their question. "The window is so large! And everything is so well made. The furniture is polished and stuff, and the bed sheets are so even. Whoever made them must've put a lot of effort into it,"

It looked expensive. Dream remembered helping to make furniture and textiles and stuff around the village, and it wasn't easy. He respected people who were skilled at crafts like that.

Actually… when he thought about it, the hallway outside hadn't looked... like the hallway of a regular house. There were stone walls and a long carpet and it was so big. And when Dream had looked out the window, it was high up.

Was he in some sort of… mansion? Or a castle? A really expensive and big one? He didn't remember anything like that around the village. He would've noticed it.

—

The Voices were quiet after that. Dream got a bit concerned whether he'd maybe insulted them somehow. It wasn't for long, because soon enough, there came a soft clicking at the door, and then the handle turning.

In walked Horror and Dust, the former carrying a tray with breakfast. Not Killer though. Dream's brow ridges pinched together.

"You're up early," Dust commented with mild surprise that soon went away.

"Is Killer okay?" Dream asked, still sitting on the bed, now legs criss-cross. "Oh– good morning!" he remembered.

"…Morning," Dust returned, a little amused.

"Good morning," Horror echoed the sentiment. He said it flatly but Dream didn't sense any irritation from him, so maybe that's just how he talked.

He walked over with the tray to put it on Dream's bed. There were pancakes, and a bit of honey in a tiny bowl with a tea spoon. And cut up cubes of cheese, and a banana.

"Thank you," Dream smiled, "do you want some too?" he immediately held out a cube of cheese to Horror.

Horror sighed. Dust snickered.

Horror accepted the small cheese cube and popped it into his mouth, sitting on the carpeted floor. Without a word, Dream also passed one to Dust who accepted it and did the same.

There were three pancakes. Dream considered that.

"Is Killer coming later?" he asked.

"Uh," Dust shared a look with Horror, "…Maybe for dinner?" he replied tentatively.

Hmm.

Dream took one pancake and carefully ripped it in two sort of even halves. Then, the same with the second, but not with the third.

One half for him, Horror and for Dust. That left… one more half and one whole. If he pretended the other half was also for him maybe he could keep it for Night, and the whole could be for Killer so he could heal better if he was hurt.

Horror and Dust watched him, both with muted curiosity and amusement. They didn't scold him for messing with his food, which he was grateful for. Wordlessly, both of them also accepted half a pancake.

Dream dipped his own half into the honey and bit into it.

"You know what, we probably should've asked this earlier, but how old are you, pal?" Dust asked, biting into his pancake piece.

Dream chewed first, before answering "Twelve,"

Both of the other two paused. For some reason, they were surprised at that.

"Wait– really?" Horror blinked.

"…Yeah?"

"…Huh," Horror scratched his skull.

"Wow," Dust had his brow ridges raised, "we thought you were like… six or something, eight at most,"

Dream sputtered, "What? No!" he exclaimed, a little amused.

Yeah, Night was… a lot more mature than him. Dream really didn't understand why people thought he was immature, but he knew they did.

"In our defense, you're not wearing stripes like you should be," Horror pointed out.

Dream shrugged. They'd never really worn stripes like the other kids.

"I'm not really a child," he explained. "My brother and I are guardian spirits! These are just our bodies,"

"But… you got your body when you were born, right?" Dust nudged.

Dream blinked. "Well… yeah, sort of, I guess," he conceded. "But they weren't the bodies of babies, not really, not even at first. This is just how we look, we're not like people's actual kids,"

Horror and Dust shared another glance. There was something to it Dream couldn't quite put to words.

"Sure kid," Horror shrugged.

…Okay?

"The pancakes are really good by the way," Dream switched the topic to something more understandable and cheerful. And they were good.

"Oh. Uh, thanks," Horror cleared his throat, biting into his half.

—

They did humor him and said they'd take one pancake to Killer, though Dream didn't get to keep anything for Night this time. That's alright though! He still had the grapes. And one of the Voices said there was plenty of food.

After they left, it was back to quiet. For a while, Dream just waited around. Put the blanket back on the bed properly. Walked back and forth around the room, counting his steps. He tried to climb the wardrobe, which was a bit difficult, but in the end, he managed to squeeze himself at its top, right under the ceiling, laughing quietly to himself.

It was dusty here too, but he managed to wipe the dust off with his sleeves.

HIII! How are you doing ? [Azries]

Oh!! The Voices were back!! Dream grinned excitedly.

"Hiii!" he waved, laying on his stomach on top of the wardrobe. "I'm okay! I had breakfast, thank you for asking,"

What are your thoughts on the 3 skeletons who was in your room earlier?? Also you're so cute im gonna explode !!! (to clarify, not literaly ! [Azries]

Oh, Dream was just about to ask if the Voices knew Killer, Horror and Dust too.

Dream giggled, amused. "Aww thank you! You're very sweet! So far they've been nice too," he considered them. "I think they're not entirely sure how to act around me for some reason, but I think I'm helping them get more comfortable. I hope Killer is okay and that I can talk to him later too,"

dream i have some words of advice, horror is the kindest of the 3 you just talked so you can trust him to talk to you about stuff most of the time though he can be sensitive, dust is also nice but he likes to stay to himself so i wouldn't bother him unless you can't talk to horror, and never talk to killer. he's not very nice [Wise Villager (Guest)]

Even though he wanted to interrupt, Dream listened first. He frowned a little, then remembered to smooth it out.

"Thank you for the advice," he smiled politely. "It's very informative! I can't wait to get to know them. I'm sure Killer is nice too," he reasoned. "Maybe he's just scared, or he doesn't know how to act nice because people have been mean to him a lot. I'm sure he has his reasons," Dream said gently.

Sometimes you think someone isn't nice, but it turns out they're just stressed, or scared, or angry, or they need something, or a dozen other reasons. Dream didn't like immediately dismissing people.

"And anyway, I… don't think not talking to him will help him be nicer, right?" he asked, not because he didn't know (he already thought so), but he didn't want it to sound like arguing. "I wanna give him a chance," he smiled. "Still, thank you! I appreciate you trying to help,"

and i wouldn't talk to nighty yet as he is in a bit of a mood so you should let him rest, maybe you can talk to him later? :) [Wise Villager (Guest)]

"Oh!" Dream exclaimed. "Good idea! When the guys come back for dinner I'll ask them if Night's okay, thanks for reminding me,"

Night was in a bad mood and tired very often these days. Whenever Dream went back to their tree at the end of the day, he was usually so tired, he immediately went to bed. But when he tried to talk with Night instead, Night said he was tired and didn't want to.

They were… getting less and less time to talk. Dream hoped maybe now that he wasn't so busy, they could. He missed spending time with his brother. Though it wasn't Night's fault, it's okay to be tired! It's Dream who should work faster and better to have more time with him.

He shook his head, and reminded himself to feel hopeful and excited that he had more free time now. He hoped the village was doing okay though. It was so big and with so many people, there was always something he was needed for.

Also what's the first thing you remember from when you met Ink and Blue? After being in your AU with the tree and village. [StrawberruS0da]

"Oh, uhh…" Dream tapped his fingers against the wood of the warbrobe, trying to remember.

He… didn't really recall. And when he thought about it, it started to make his head hurt.

"I was…" his face scrunched up, "…I just remember waking up in a really, really big empty white place, and Ink was there and he called Blue. I mean, I didn't know who they were, but Blue was worried so I introduced myself and told him it's okay,"

("Dream?!" Blue freaked out, hands at his head. "What– how?! What happened??? How did you get here– are you okay???"

"I'm okay!" Dream reassured him again, trying to push his sleeves back so they didn't fall over his hands. He wasn't sure why his clothes were so big.

"Oh wow–!" Ink was bent over laughing, "Wow, oh my stars– this is crazy, the plot has really thickened now, hahahah–!"

"Oh my angel– what if this has disastrous consequences for the Multiverse?" Blue held his face in his hands.

"It's going to be okay, we'll fix it," Dream patted his elbow, "what's the issue?"

Blue sighed deeply. "Dream– oh gosh, do you even know what the Multiverse is?"

"…I think I've heard it but can you remind me please?"

…

"…Do you even know who we are?!"

"…Uh–"

Ink started laughing harder.)

"And then we went to Blue's house and they brought me clothes and food and we drew! They were really nice," Dream recounted. That'd all happened just a few days ago.

Inversely, what's the last thing you remember before you left? [StrawberruS0da]

"Left?" Dream tilted his head. "Left where? Left Blue and Ink? Um, they told me they had to leave quickly to 'deal with my brother' and to stay at Blue's house," he replied. "I followed after them to help,"

It had made him a little worried what 'dealing with' Nightmare meant. And if it concerned his brother, it concerned him too.

He felt a little bad disobeying and he hoped Blue and Ink wouldn't be mad.

(But considering he'd seen them all fighting, it was a good thing he showed up. He didn't regret it.)

—

"Killer!" Dream exclaimed, and the named skeleton blinked at him, closing the door after them. "Do you feel better?"

"'Feel better'?" Killer repeated, brow ridges raised.

"We told you he was worried about you," Dust shrugged, as Horror walked over to put the food tray on the bed as always. There was a stew thing with green beans and other veggies that smelled really good.

"Huh, is that so," Killer mused.

"Dream, sit down and eat," Horror told him. Making Dream paused from where he was walking over to Killer.

"Are you hurt? Do you need healing? I can heal you," he offered quickly.

"Nope, HP's all full," Killer replied with a bit of humor.

"That's good to hear," Dream nodded. "Can… can I try anyway? I promise it won't hurt,"

(Dream's hand hovered in the air between them uncertainly. Night kept laying with his back towards Dream.

…He'd seen the bruise on his brother's face. Night said he'd just 'slipped and fell'. He fell a lot these days. Dream never saw him fall.

"…Can I try to hea–" he started quietly.

"I'm tired, Dream." Night cut him off, not much louder. "…I know you're tired too. Just go to sleep."

Dream opened his mouth to respond, but didn't know what to say. He was tired. He didn't want to bother Night if he was tired too. And he needed a good night's sleep to heal properly.

…That's okay, Dream would just go to bed and heal him in the morning when he had more energy and could do it better. He yawned, exhaustion tugging him to his own tree nook where he slept.

(Instead, he had to leave first thing in the morning to help settle cattle distressed by an upcoming storm.))

Killer considered Dream, tilting his head. He always grinned in a really… sharp way. Not necessarily mean though.

"You know what? Sure," he shrugged. Dream could sense curiosity from him. Meanwhile Horror and Dust were surprised at that.

Dream grinned, "Thank you!"

So he got Killer to sit down on the bed and shuffled to sit next to him, while Horror and Dust watched from their places on the carpet.

Killer's HP may have been full, but Dream could sense… something was wrong. It was hard to describe. There was like… an unsettling.

"Can I ask a question?" Dream prefaced.

"Go ahead," Killer was mostly amused.

"Is that… your soul?"

Dream had noticed it way back at the start. A glowing circle at his chest, in red and white and then red again. It exuded a very… particular energy.

With a bit of surprise, "Yup,"

"He could tell–?" Dust murmured, sharing a glance with Horror.

"Well he is Nightmare's brother," Horror muttered back.

Killer's soul was a perfect shimmery circle when they met. However, now it was… it was like... like there was more air, less structure.

Dream brought his hands up to focus on it, without touching, to try and heal.

Healing magic took very precise intent. Dream was a good healer because he held a strong base-level love and trust and compassion for every single person he ever met, and in turn, he was also able to make them sort of trust him too, or at least to feel a little comfortable around him.

Since he didn't know Killer all that well, and he'd also noticed how uncaring (guarded) Killer was, Dream expected some difficulty. Still, he channeled his intent. Breathing out slowly.

Care. Sympathy. Warmth. Safety. Trust.

It was a bit difficult. It felt like there was… something in the air, pressing back against him, like resistance. Dream gave it his best though.

It's okay. I'll help you. I'll make it stop hurting. You deserve–

–Killer's hand grabbed Dream's wrist with such force he yelped, his eyes shot open.

"What the fuck are you doing?!" Killer snapped with a mean grin, and Dream saw his soul was a little more unstable actually. Oh no–

"It's okay, I'm just healing you!" Dream explained quickly, keeping the strain out of his voice (Killer was squeezing his hand really painfully). "I promise I won't hurt you, it's alright–" he reassured, calm, honest.

"Hurt me?! Do you even know–" Killer laughed, sharp sharp sharp.

"Ah shit–" Dust hissed, both him and Horror having shot to their feet, and now he tried to wrench open Killer's grip while Horror tried to drag Killer away.

"No no no, it's okay, it's okay!" Dream tried to deescalate, "He's just scared, it's not his fault–"

"SCARED?" Killer snarled, more of that dark liquid running down his face. "I'll SHOW you SCARED–"

"You aren't showing anyone anything," Horror growled, finally yanking Killer to his feet once Dust got him to free Dream's wrist. "C'mon, we're leaving–"

"Please don't hurt hurt him, he's just scared, I'm sorry I scared you–!" Dream rushed out, trying to get them to listen for a moment. If they all just calmed down for a second–

"You should've listeneed to meee!" Killer laughed, an unstable quality to it. "I told you we should wait until tomorrow, I told you I was in no state–"

"Yeah yeah you're a straight up prophet," Dust deadpanned, unlocking the door so Horror could drag Killer out with little resistance. "Dream, finish your food, see ya tomorrow," and then the door was shut and Dream was alone.

…

And Dream was alone.

His soul still raced, and he clutched the ends of his sleeves. Keeping his breathing level. Staring at the locked door. Alone again. It was quiet now.

The food sat on the bed still.

"Oh no," he whispered, swallowing. Face scrunching up against his will with a sort of warmth to it.

Don't cry.

He'd messed up.

He'd just been trying to help. When his magic reached out, he'd sensed strain, struggle, something so oppressive. It was hard to parse who it even came from, because it felt like it was just… in the atmosphere.

…But he'd pushed too hard. This is why he was scared to be pushy. Killer wasn't prepared for it, wasn't ready. It was unfamiliar to him, or maybe he thought something bad was going to happen. Dream could feel the way he freaked out all of a sudden. He was angry because he wanted to protect himself, even if… maybe he didn't… quite realize it.

Dream should've explained it to him more (even if Killer might've refused to accept the help then). He should've been more patient (even if it might've gotten worse if untreated). He should've made sure Killer felt safer and more comfortable (even if he had a sense Killer wouldn't have allowed that).

Don't. Cry.

(There's no one around to see anyway.)

He should've done better. If they were mad, he'd understand. He was upset at the screw-up too.

He just hoped Killer was okay and that Dream hadn't made it worse.

—

(If the poll runs out of time before you've voted, you can also comment on ao3)

#childish dreams utmv #dream sans #dreamtale sans #dream!sans #undertale #undertale au #undertale multiverse #utmv #fanfic #fan fiction #interactive #ask blog #nightmare sans #horror sans #dust sans #killer sans #angst

24 notes · View notes

childish-dreams-utmv · 5 months ago

Text

"Childish Dreams" [INTERACTIVE]

Fanfic summary:

Chapter 2, 2956 words

Credits, content warnings and further information on ao3.

—

"Night…?"

No reply came.

Dream was… very confused.

He wasn't sure why Night locked him in this room. Actually, he wasn't sure what this room was at all. Dream stayed in place at the door for a few minutes, sort of looking around, trying to make sense of the situation.

It wasn't a tiny room. It was pretty dark even though it had windows. And cold, too. It wasn't empty but clearly nobody used it, because there was dust, and even though there was furniture, there were no belongings.

He wasn't sure why him and his brother were here? And… where 'here' is?

Dream was confused about many things going on right now, actually. Like! His brother was suddenly very tall and there was a weird vibrating echo to his voice, and he'd been covered in that painful goop stuff.

Dream really hoped he wasn't hurting. He hoped Night was okay.

He also didn't know who those people were, the ones that came with them. Night seemed to know them for sure, and Night… didn't really talk to people.

Maybe they were friends! Dream really hoped so. He's be so happy if Night had friends, no matter how weird they were.

…Nobody was opening the door yet. He wondered if Blue and Ink would come along too, although they didn't seem to get along with the others much… Dream would have to do something about that.

For now, though, he started to move around the room, curious and lacking something better to do. There was a bed with all black sheets. They were nice to the touch, but also dusty and the blanket was thin.

Did– should Dream clean around here? The people from the village asked that of him sometimes. Helping with chores — so he was good at it. Was that why Night put him here? There wasn't much to clean, just all the dust. Well, it wouldn't hurt anyone.

Dream started smoothing out the sheets, trying to pat some of the dust off. He didn't have a towel or a duster or anything, but he made do as he moved around the room.

Still, nobody came to the door. Nobody unlocked it. And he was finished with that task pretty fast. And there wasn't really anything else to do.

Dream stood in the middle of the chilly dark room, looking around, fidgeting. Um. Was he supposed to wait for something…?

(He didn't really, um. He didn't really like being separated from Night like this, unable to reach him. Because whenever he did reach him, Night was… not really okay.

Then again, it was Night who put him here. So it should be fine! …Hopefully.)

Dream shook his head. He was missing information. He didn't really like missing information, but it happens! He was gonna figure it out and then everything was going to be okay.

The room continued to be quiet and empty and still. It felt a little weird. Dream wasn't used to being alone. He was used to being with at least one person, or many many people.

Did he… did he do something wrong…? Blue did seem upset Dream had showed up to their fight, but he'd only been trying to help.

The thought sent a really awful sharp twisting emotion through him. Things went really, really bad when he messed up.

He tried to smooth the emotion out because it felt wrong, like he shouldn't be feeling it, like he was doing another thing wrong by feeling it. He smiled to himself to remind himself how that felt instead. Think nice thoughts! You're a Guardian of Positivity!

"It's okay," he reassured himself, "Whatever's wrong, I can fix it!" Dream decided. That's what he did! He fixed stuff and he helped people and stuff.

So Dream waited. Not like there was much to do.

He looked around the room's nooks and crannies. The wardrobe was empty, save for a set of spare sheets. It was big enough for him to fit inside, but not much bigger. There were big dark curtains. When he looked out the window, he saw a spanning forest, and gloomy weather. So maybe they were somewhere around the village, just farther away than Dream had gone in the past. The trees didn't really look the same as the ones in their forest — bigger and spikier — but forests could have different types of trees in them.

He couldn't find a mechanism to open the window. It was a weird window, not the type he was used to. It had no latch. There was a handle that twisted, so maybe it was broken?

He tried to think of ways to pass the time. Like playing made-up hopscotch. Or singing quietly to himself, sitting on the bed and swinging his legs. Or tidying up even though everything was already as tidy as it could be.

It was boring. And quiet. And… lonely.

Not just due to the lack of people. There was… like… it felt like there was fog inside the room that made breathing weird. Like a cold sort of air. The type that dampens your mood. Like this wasn't a very nice and friendly place.

He tried to shake it off though. He didn't like lingering on it. Maybe it's just 'cause the room was unoccupied. It would be nice to have someone to talk to.

Ink and Blue had been nice. They said they were Dream's friends! He didn't recognize them but he didn't think that was a lie, he was friends with everybody. And they gave him clothes that fit better! Blue promised they were going to keep him safe and Ink drew pictures with him. Dream tried to draw a bird. He wasn't great at drawing because he never really had time to because he was helping. But Ink said it was adorable. Dream wished he could bring some paper and pencils to Night to draw because Night could draw really good. He didn't do it a lot though, because he didn't have stuff. And because his drawings always went missing.

They only ever went missing when Dream wasn't there. And then Night stopped drawing. But he could probably still do it, right?

Dream flopped down on the bed with a sigh. It wasn't an uncomfortable bed. He hoped it was okay for him to lay on it. Nobody was using this room but maybe it was meant for someone else and he was just here to keep an eye on it.

…Maybe it was Night's room! It was all dark, haha. And Night had the key to it. Ooh, did he put Dream here because Dream was also going to have a room and they were going to match?? And he had to prepare it so it was a surprise?? Haha, that'd be great! Dream loved surprises. Sort of. Nice ones, at least.

If this was Night's bed, then… he wouldn't be upset if Dream laid on it for a little bit, right? There just wasn't anything to do. And he felt a little tired. Just a tiny bit.

(It felt as if the room itself was making him tired.)

After a few hours of waiting, the burns from the black goop had sort of faded. The bed sheets were nice when he curled up on top of them, running his hands over the cloth. They smelled… clean, in an unused sort of way. The pillow was soft. He wasn't really used to sleeping on a pillow like this, so instead he pulled it to his chest to hug and squish his face into it.

It was quiet. Static. Still, nobody came.

Dream exhaled softly, closing his eyes. He was just going to have a quick nap.

—

Surprisingly, when Dream was roused from sleep, it was to a hand hesitantly shaking him.

He blinked his eyes open, yawning, and the hand immediately shot back. It was a skeletal hand so for a moment he thought it was his brother, but when he quickly looked up, it wasn't.

It was those same three guys as before. The one that shook him awake and now stared at him as if Dream would explode was the one with a big red eye and a hole in his skull.

"Are you okay?" Dream asked immediately because he hadn't earlier (which was a bit inconsiderate of him).

The guy blinked, hovering uncertainly. He exchanged glances with the other two. The one right behind him had totally black eyes with the same blackness dripping out, and the one closest to the door (closed) had a hood on that made his face all shadowy.

Wait.

"Are you okay?" Dream asked the one with the black goo dripping down his face. It was just a droplet or two, was he crying? Was it the same stuff that covered Night, did it burn? Dream pushed himself out of the bed and to his feet, "Are you hurt? I can heal you!" he was good at healing, he healed tons of people all the time.

The dark-eyed one snorted and started cackling. The one with the hood elbowed him. This didn't stop him at all. Dream giggled.

"We're fine," the red-eyed one said flatly. He felt out of his element and a bit exasperated, Dream could tell. He hoped it wasn't because of him. "Sit down and eat," the same one said, gesturing– oh! There was a tray of food at the foot of the bed.

"Okay," Dream sat back down on the bed, pulling his legs up to cross them. On the tray, there was a bowl (black ceramic) of what looked like veggie soup, a plate (black ceramic, there was a theme here) with cut up chicken, and a plastic bowl with green grapes. And also some sliced bread.

"What are your names? Mine is Dream!" Dream introduced himself. He'd introduced himself earlier but they hadn't, and he didn't want them to feel bad for it, maybe they just forgot. Even now, they hadn't moved from where they all stood. He didn't sense any… big discomfort or anger in them, though. They felt mostly uncertain. Amused, in the case of the black-eyed guy.

"…Horror,"

"Heh, Killer,"

"…Dust."

"Nice to meet you!" Dream said, smiling at them sincerely, picking up the spoon. He hoped he could put them at ease a little, he was usually pretty good at it. "You know my brother, right??" he scooped up some soup, blowing air on it to cool it because it was still steaming. It smelled nice.

"…You could say that,"

"Yeah!"

"Sure."

These guys were funny. Dream ate the spoonful of soup, not minding the way Horror watched him closely.

It tasted nice. Pleasantly salty and warm.

"This is really good!" Dream complimented, grinning at them.

Horror blinked at him.

"…Uh, thanks," some of that uncertainty eased up. Oh, he made this! That was nice of him.

"Are you not gonna eat too?" Dream asked them, eating a piece of the chicken next.

Killer coughed awkwardly and Dust glanced away.

"That's… for you," Horror replied.

"If there's not enough you can have some of mine," Dream picked up the plate with the cut up chicken and held it out to them. "I don't really eat much usually, anyway,"

They stared at him. He just kept smiling, waiting for them to make up their minds.

"Come on! I like eating together,"

Finally, Horror sighed, rubbing his skull. Dream still worried a little whether it was hurting him.

He shuffled over, sitting at the edge of the bed. He picked up a piece of chicken and started chewing on it.

"Hah! Kid's already charming you, huh Horror?" Killer teased, flopping down on the floor next to the bed, and Dust copied him.

"There," Horror said to Dream after finishing his bite, ignoring Killer. "Happy?"

"Mhm!" Dream nodded smugly, spooning more soup. He handed a slice of bread to Killer and to Dust, both of who accepted it with amusement. Bread might be easier for them if they didn't feel like eating much.

"So," Killer indulged him by chewing some bread, "What, you're not scared we'll hurt you? At all?"

Dust stiffened, and Horror glowered at him.

Dream knew they carried the frost of violence. And they'd been fighting against Blue and Ink with clear harmful intent. He wasn't blind or stupid. But he didn't know their stories or their reasons, and so far, they hadn't been mean to him. And if they did decide they want to hurt him, they'd probably have a reason for it, right?

"Nope!" he replied easily, also eating some chicken.

"Huh," Killer considered that.

Horror raised a brow ridge. "You should be more careful around strangers," he frowned. Blue said that as well.

Dream… didn't really get it. Maybe because, back at the village, he'd known just about everybody, even if distantly. He was careful! He was as nice and helpful to strangers as he was with everyone.

"I am!" he nodded along, eating his soup. "But thank you!" it was nice of Horror to be concerned.

He felt mild surprise from Horror.

"We shouldn't stick around long," Dust muttered, glancing at the door. He was wary.

"He hasn't even finished his food," Horror argued, just a little sharp, "We can stay for a minute,"

(So Dream was expected to finish all his food. That meant he wouldn't be able to sneak any of it to bring to Night, but these people were kind of on good terms with Night, so he would get some too, right?)

Oh, no, they were in a rush and Dream was keeping them here. He tried to eat a little quicker.

He wanted to chat with them while they were here though, even if they weren't very talkative. That was okay though, he knew not everyone is. It's just that he'd spent, like, all day alone. All evening, that is.

(And he could tell they needed some niceness.)

"I can help wash the dishes," he offered, so he wouldn't give them even more work to do. And to repay them for the food!

"Nope," Killer immediately dismissed the idea, "You're staying right here,"

"Oh," oh. Dream fiddled with the spoon, gathering up some finely chopped carrots. "Okay!" he smiled. Maybe it was for a good reason! Or, if he'd done something wrong and that's why he was being locked in here, he wouldn't complain about it, he was very well-behaved. "What are your hobbies?" he asked them, because people were generally pretty happy to get to talk about their hobbies and passions. And he loved to make people smile!

Except they all got vaguely uncomfortable. Killer's then switched to delighted.

"Oh, you know, murder, torture–" he said casually and then oofed as Dust elbowed him again. "What?! Would you rather I lie to him, huh?" Killer exclaimed. "Literally all of us have children's b–" he was cut off as Dust slapped a hand over his mouth. Killer tried to shove it away, and then they were sort of wrestling. Horror looked incredibly done with them.

Dream was failing to suppress snickers at their behavior.

"Jeez kid," Killer commented, valiantly keeping Dust's fists away. "That really didn't bother you? Maybe you are as fucked up as your–"

"Oh my stars stop–" Dust groaned.

And, well.

…Either Killer's words weren't true, and so there was nothing to worry about.

Or they were true, and Dream should just continue being nice, so he didn't provoke him/them. As long as he did everything right, he wouldn't get hurt!

(Or his brother.

…it was usually his brother who– Dream just… shouldn't mess up.)

Dream just laughed like it was a joke, smiling and cheery.

"Alright," Horror sighed harshly. Practically all the food was finished now, only some grapes remained, so he moved the little plastic bowl onto the bed and lifted the tray with the rest.

Oh– he was leaving the rest of the grapes with Dream! Yay!

Oh, but they were leaving–

"Thank you for the food!" Dream exclaimed, "And for keeping me company!" he added, and then tried to think if there was anything else he had to say, instead of letting himself feel sad that they were leaving. "Um, is it okay if I sleep here?"

"Your room — do whatever you want," Dust said, already pushing himself up to his feet.

"Any mess you make, you'll just have to deal with," Killer shrugged with that same sharp grin he seemed to always be wearing, trailing after Dust.

"When are you going to be back?" Dream dared to ask.

"Breakfast," Horror answered simply, shepherding the other two out.

They closed the door behind them, and Dream heard a faint click follow after.

He listened to their voices, muffled behind the door. Getting further away.

And then it was quiet again.

He sighed. Well… at least they were going to be back at breakfast!

He just had to sleep until then and maybe the time would pass quicker. Even if it was just as lonely.

He put the bowl of grapes on the little night stand next to the bed so he could save them for Night. Then, he reconsidered, and opened the drawer itself to put them inside.

He wasn't hiding them! He wasn't. He wasn't sneaking food. He was… just…

They wouldn't be mad, right? Horror didn't seem like the type to throw food away just so Dream couldn't give it to Night, right?

…Dream made the decision to hope so. To believe they could be nice. They wouldn't be cruel. He insisted it to himself.

He felt full, and there was nothing else to do, so Dream curled up under the blanket and tried to sleep.

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childish-dreams-utmv · 6 months ago

Text

Introduction

"Childish Dreams" is going to be an interactive Undertale AU fanfic. It will be centered around the Dreamtale brothers, but will also include the Murder Time Trio, the Star Sanses, and maybe other characters

This was just a fun little impulsive idea, nothing serious

Unlike my usual style, there is no schedule, the plot is entirely unplanned and will evolve through the readers' asks, comments, and decisions! I.e. please be mindful of the tags and warnings as they update

Not all asks/comments will be answered and they may not always be included on time, but I will try :]

(Asks/comments that include genuine creepy content, harassment, bigotry, or anything of the sort will simply be deleted. Please be civil.)

General tag: #childish dreams utmv

Fanfic summary:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/61963975

Credits:

Dream and Nightmare belong to jokublog

Ink belongs to comyet

Horror belongs to sour-apple-atudios

Dust belongs to ask-dusttale

Killer belongs to rahafwabas

Underswap is open source afaik

#undertale #undertale au #utmv #dreamtale #dreamtale sans #dream sans #nightmare sans #fanfic #fan fiction #childish dreams utmv

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childish-dreams-utmv · 6 months ago

Text

"Childish Dreams" [INTERACTIVE]

Fanfic summary:

Chapter 1, 1776 words

Credits, content warnings and further information on ao3.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/61963975

—

"No no no, you're gonna hurt him!"

And just like that, all fighting froze in place.

It was the voice of a child. In the middle of their battle. Killer was frozen with his knife high and ready to stab at Blue, while Dust and Horror took Dream's absence to team against Ink. Nightmare had found no need to intervene, simply standing back and smugly watching the havoc and destruction always rightfully linked to his name.

Because Dream was missing. Because he'd been waiting for Dream to appear, so he could target him personally, as he so frequently did.

Well.

He got what he asked for, in a way.

"Night!" the child stumbled a little, running towards him with hands outstretched. "Are you okay?!" he exclaimed in worry. Not fear, not hatred, not anger, which was normal, those weren't Dream's modus operandi; but not in sadness, not in regret, not in morose conviction.

He could feel it. Worry. For Nightmare. The corrupted King of Negativity. His arch nemesis of decades past.

"DREAM!" Blue yelled, full of alarm. Nightmare watched– Dream wince and slow down, highly emotionally tensed though he hardly showed it. "We told you to STAY. HOME–"

"I'm sorry…" Dream fidgeted, looking down. Guilt. Anxiety. "But you needed help… I can help!" he looked back up, grinning back at Blue. And then he once again looked up to Nightmare, just a few paces away.

'Up' because he was a tiny child. No older than the day of Nightmare's… becoming. His ascension.

Likely not having travelled here from the past, however — his circlet remained as always, but his clothes were different. Nightmare had never seem him dressed like this. They were clearly borrowed. A yellow shirt, an orange zip-up hoodie that was too big on him, light blue trousers. Far from the borderline princely or knightly outfits he would don these days. (Nightmare always dressed far more regal than him, however, of course.)

Everyone on the battlefield was stupefied still.

"Dream," Blue hissed, eye lights frantically flicking around, still braced to parry Killer's stabbing.

"Night, are you okay?" Dream pretended not to hear, eye sockets wide and looking still at him. Was he… caring? No, that was preposterous. It had to be faked, it always had been. Nightmare could only imagine the expression he wore.

"What."

"You're, um," Dream tentatively stepped even closer, reaching out. "There's weird stuff on you…" he muttered.

"How did he even know that's his brother?" Ink wondered aloud, perhaps the only one naturally unperturbed.

"I don't know," Blue stressed, like he carried tension enough for both of them.

"OH because of the crown!" Dream looked back at them, pointing at Nightmare's head. Or, rather, his circlet.

Still reeling, Nightmare raised a hand halfway as if intenting to… take it off or something. He still wore it, because he was a King. And it pleasantly dirtied Dream's name — everyone should know whose brother was sowing suffering throughout the Multiverse.

"It's okay!" Dream turned back to him, smiling like sunshine. It occurred to Nightmare he'd hardly seen his grins that… radiant for a while now. Always marred by hidden tiredness, indicative of Nightmare's own building strength. Those shadows lingered now too, though. That was another difference to their youth. "We can, um… I'm sure it can wash off!" the child, what, reassured him?

What the hell was going on?

"What is this?!" Nightmare's expression turned to a glower, pinned on Blue (as Ink would hardly care).

Blue cringed, and sensing his emotions wasn't even needed to see the discomfort and panic he was experiencing. Killer still held a knife above him, though all of Nightmare's gang had also stopped to watch… whatever this was.

"Ink," Blue hissed.

"Huh?" Ink turned to him, one of his eye lights turning to a question mark.

Blue made a few frantic expressions, nodding at Dream with something implied to it. Even Nightmare halfway got the meaning, akin to 'Do something about this!', which was more than what could be said for Ink. Killer chortled.

Nightmare looked back down to the child. Contemplative.

Oh, fate. It was about time you presented him with such a sweet opportunity.

"Oh," a conniving grin slowly curled over his face, "how the mighty have fallen," one of his tentacles shot forward and grabbed Dream off the ground, who let out a small sound. Nightmare expected him to immediately start wailing at the burning touch like the crybaby he was, but to his surprise, Dream only looked strained, hands latching onto the tentacle desperately.

"NO!" Blue screamed, using Killer's pause to shove him away and shoot towards them. Killer recuperated, barking a laugh as he fired a blaster at his back within the next second and combat was re-engaged.

That didn't matter, because all Nightmare needed was a moment to disappear into the shadows and drag his catch alongside him.

Within the following moment, he was back in his castle, expansive and regal and dark as always. (No, it was not 'goth' or 'edgy' or 'emo' dammit–)

Dream still clutched in his tentacle. Nightmare was larger than a standard Sans, corruption looming and distorted; but even then, Dream currently barely reached above someone's lowest ribs in height.

"Um, Night," he whispered, strained, sweating, "does this black… goop stuff hurt you–?" he asked, eye lights flicking to Nightmare's face.

He barked an unkind laugh.

"Here, let me fix that for you," he said condescendingly, letting Dream drop straight down. It wasn't a long fall to the dark stone floor, but he yelped in surprise and then let out a pained noise with his landing.

The child pushed himself up with some difficulty, traces of harm where Nightmare's liquid negativity had connected with bone.

One by one, Nightmare's recruits began appearing in the common room as well, having dutifully followed him in their tactical retreat. He watched them look at the child in different ways.

Killer seemed to find it bafflingly hilarious. Dust carried a small, flat frown. Horror was outright glowering, minorly conflicted. All of them held notes of confusion.

In the middle of their gathering, Dream looked between everyone. Nightmare could sense… hm, hesitation perhaps. He was unsure of himself.

It was… odd, to sense his aura, because Dream had learned to block him out of it decades ago.

How fun.

"Hello!" Dream smiled past it, and waved at Nightmare's gang. Dust's brow ridges raised. Killer's grin widened. Horror frowned deeper. "I'm Dream! Are– are you my brother's friends?" he asked cheerfully.

Killer started laughing.

"No," Horror grunted, and promptly got elbowed by Dust with a certain look. Perhaps he considered pretending to be just that so as to not freak the kid out.

"Oh," Dream said, smiling in a way that betrayed absolutely none of the disappointment and anxiety Nightmare sensed in him. Curious. "Do you want to be friends?" he exclaimed.

Dust kept it hidden while Horror didn't bother, but both of them felt uncomfortable. Dust's hand raised to habitually hold the scarf around his neck, pulling it up. Killer was still cackling.

"Enough of that," Nightmare turned to him flatly.

"Sorry, sorry boss," Killer chortled, "but wow, am I right? So what's the plan?"

Ah, that was indeed the question.

Hm. Clearly, Dream had no idea he was corrupted. He also hadn't known who the gang were. Nightmare wondered what terrible mishap brought this on. He assumed Blue and Ink had been the one to take care of the child since its occurence, which had to be sometime in the past week or so, as that's how long it had been since Nightmare's latest battle with the other Guardian.

They had tried to keep this hidden from Nightmare. They had failed. Because apparently, Dream was still capable of Multiversal teleportation, a skill he definitely didn't have when they were young. So he'd retained his powers (or at least this one), but was simply returned to a childish state.

Ugh. Then Nightmare couldn't needle him for information.

But Dream was vulnerable like this. And Nightmare held so much old, bitter malice for his "brother".

Once again, he grinned.

"Dream," he began, the tips of his tendrils idly flicking, "would you like to play a game?"

"Yeah!"

—

The "game" went like this:

Order his gang to clean out a bedroom, dark and cold like every unoccupied room around here. Put Dream inside the room. Tell him nothing. Lock the door. Walk away.

How fun.

Said gang trailed after him at a distance. Killer was mostly curious, then slightly disappointed when that's all Nightmare did. Dust and Horror were both uncomfortable.

"Are you just– going to leave him there?" Horror pushed Killer aside to be the one following after Nightmare the closest.

"Yes," Nightmare said easily.

"But he's a kid!" Horror growled.

"And my arch nemesis, correct."

"The hell is a child going to do to you?!"

Nightmare stopped in his stride, and his gang wisely followed suit, stumbling to a halt a few paces behind him. He sighed, slowly turning to give Horror a flat look.

"You'd be wise leaving the decision-making to me." Nightmare spoke low.

Horror was puffed up in anger, hands clenched. He glared back at Nightmare.

Ah, always a more difficult one. He didn't keep quiet the way Dust did, though at least he didn't intentionally annoy to bring himself trouble the way Killer did.

Nigtmare exhaled through his nose.

"He'll be finee," he dismissed with a wave of his hand. "He's spoken to enough people for a lifetime, he won't crumble to dust if he doesn't get attention for five minutes,"

Horror bristled further. Behind him, Killer continued to watch in unaffected interest. Dust seemed to be disapproving of Nightmare's decisions at well.

Hm.

Nightmare rolled his eye.

"He will be fed come nightfall," he said in annoyance. Contrary to what many believed, he wasn't a despicable leader to those directly under him. After all, he'd offered them all something in return should they work for him, rather than simply forcing the issue. And he remained true to those deals.

(And, of course, he didn't actually want Dream to die.

This was just some… payback, if you will. A harmful little fantasy. It was about time Dream saw what it's like to be cast out and at somebody else's mercy.)

"Happy?" Nightmare raised an eyebrow.

Horror didn't reply, but he turned around, shoving Killer and Dust aside to storm off. Those two looked at his retreating back, then at Nightmare, then shared a glance.

"Dismissed." Nightmare told them flatly. They scurried off after Horror. He turned back to continue on his way. He had things to contemplate.

—

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