Dream and Devotion

by Rainmaker

Summary:

After initially dismissing an oddity in the Dreaming, over the years Morpheus gets to know his unusual visitor.

Chapter 1 tease:
“Since my return to the Dreaming and the rebuilding of it, there has been something amiss. I thought it was simply the realm resettling.” He pointed across the river. “It’s her.”

“Another vortex?” Lucienne asked, alarmed.

“No,” Dream replied. He was intrigued. “Something else. Something new.”

 

Sloooooooow burn (seriously takes years so she can grow up) story of strangers to friends to lovers. Time warped but somewhat follows the comics so SPOILERS!

Part 1 - The Years (ch1-14)
Part 2 - Ruin (ch15-29)
Part 3 - Revelation (ch30-

Chapter 1: Part 1: The Years. Nine - Like a New Creak in the Stairs

Summary:

Like a new creak in a stair, Morpheus notices something different in the Dream realm.

Part 1: The Years

Chapter 1: Nine - Like a New Creak in the Stairs

 

Looking up from her census book, Lucienne noticed that Lord Morpheus was no longer walking with her.

 

“My Lord?” 

 

She turned to see he had stopped two paces back, gaze riveted across the water to something on the far shore.

 

“Sir?” she enquired again, noting his deep frown. Matthew came to land on the bridge wall beside them.

 

“Since my return to the Dreaming and the rebuilding of it, there has been something amiss. I thought it was simply the realm resettling.” He pointed across the river. “It’s her.”

 

“Another vortex?” Lucienne asked, alarmed.

 

“No,” Dream replied. He was intrigued. “Something else. Something new.”

 

Walking round from the bridge, they could see a young boy in the water’s shallows playing catch with group of baby dragons. He was giggling and clapping; it was a charming scene. 

 

The girl sat on the bank watching over them with a smile. She couldn’t have been more than 10. When a ball came to her accidentally, she threw it back with a wave. It was clear she could have joined them if she wished but was choosing not to. Morpheus found it odd that the boy didn’t find her presence intrusive.

 

Matthew flew ahead, landing next to her. She looked at him with sweet smile.

 

“Beautiful,” she muttered, admiring.

 

He cawed, flattered. “Thanks kid,” he said, puffing up slightly at the compliment and her smile brightened in delight. He turned to Morpheus. “Gotta say Boss, I like her already.” 

 

“Hello again,” Lucienne greeted, surprised in her recognition.

 

“Hi,” the girl acknowledged the librarian then hesitated as she took in the Dream Lord’s imposing dark figure.

 

“Ally has become a frequent visitor to the library,” Lucienne explained, her voice fond, as it always was with the avid readers. “This is Lord Morpheus,” she introduced gently. “The King of Dreams.”

 

The girl stood, almost to attention, looking a little frightened, despite Lucienne’s encouraging smile. She then frowned, baffled, and said incredulously “Like in my mythology book?” 

 

Unimpressed at Lucienne’s poorly hidden huff of laughter and the girl’s sudden change in demeanour, Morpheus stared down imperiously at her. “I am Dream of the Endless,” he stated coolly. “You are Alyssa Holloway.”

 

She glanced between the two, uncomfortable with his heavy scrutiny. She swallowed, “Yes?”

 

He continued to frown down at her, but his tone turned curious. “You are asleep and in the Dreaming but you do not dream.”

 

“Sorry,” she whispered, unsure how to respond, fidgeting.

 

Dream’s head tilted. “You are human. You need to dream.” He angled his body away, motioning she was to follow him, “Come, perhaps we can find you a new dream that will satisfy.”

 

He shared a look with Lucienne and she knew her assignment, nodding to them as the girl walked after him.

 

With a rush of sand, in three steps they went from the waterside field to another green area, awash in light.

 

“This is Fiddler’s Green,” Morpheus explained. “I have been expanding it since it’s return. Perhaps in this new addition, you could dream-”

 

“Too bright!” she hissed, interrupting, arms raising up to cover her eyes, the sun blinding her in its intensity. 

 

He frowned, glancing up to see she was right. The white light of the sun was too much and would be uncomfortable for any human. With a flick of his fingers, the sun began to set in the sky, changing to a softer glow.

 

Blinking to clear her vision, Ally lowered her arms, taking in the infinite grass plain. Her face turned to the sun, and her eyes closed again, enjoying the gentle heat. ”‘S better,” she said quietly, sighing. “All warm and yellow.”

 

Inspired by her words, his hand moved again and she watched, awed, as the unfinished area around her changed. The ground bloomed with small yellow flowers. It was like standing in a sea of sunshine. Willow trees grew large nearby. A warm breeze flowed through the branches, making them sway. Bird song filled the air. She laughed with joy as white and yellow butterflies flittered around her.

 

Morpheus watched her take it all in, quietly pleased that she so obviously approved of his improvements but he had to get to the heart of the matter. 

 

“Dreams are important. Especially for one so young. Why do you resist them?”

 

Ally gave a sad smile as she replied, fingers reaching out to touch the willow leaves. “‘Cause I have to wake up.”

 

His frowned deepened, “You-“

 

He did not finish his sentence as she disappeared from in front of him, ripped away suddenly, pulled back into the Waking World.

 

Blinking awake, Ally felt a cold hand on her own, her shoulder shaken roughly again. “Ok Annie, ‘m awake,” she said, automatically. The hands retreated and Ally rubbed her eyes tiredly. “‘M awake…” she muttered again as she sat up, having to face the day, whether she was ready for it or not.

 

In the Dreaming, Morpheus strode into the library, going straight to find Lucienne.

 

He was barely coming to a stop when he asked, “Were you able to find anything?” 

 

The librarian held up an unusually thin dream chronicle for him to take. “It’s very unusual sir. Some nights she seems to dream normally, others she seems to be able to actually live in the Dreaming like a member of the Dream folk. Is she a Dream Walker perhaps?”

 

She showed him another book that detailed her life in the Dreaming, completely separate from her chronicle of life in the Waking World. Dream considered the unusual book’s contents. “It’s possible but unlikely given her age. Dream Walking usually requires years, decades, of training and mental discipline. I don’t believe it’s in her cultural practice either. It could be a naturally strong mind, similar to the vortex, but without the power to combine or manipulate dreams. Very rare but not impossible. Unless there is something in her background that points to an inherited ability?”

 

Lucienne shook her head as she handed him another book, this one detailing Ally’s day to day life. “Nothing as far as I can see. She’s nine years old. Youngest of four siblings. She isn’t a magic user, nor does she have fae or witch blood. She seems to be an ordinary human from an ordinary family. I’ll keep looking though.”

 

“She said she did not want to dream because she has to wake up,” he muttered, frowning down at the books.

 

Lucienne’s look turned bittersweet. “Perhaps she enjoys them too much?”

 

“I will monitor her.” He lifted the three books. “If I may?”

 

She smiled at his asking, nodding. “Good luck.”

 

Xxxxxx

 

Alyssa Holloway was floating in a crystal clear pool. The water was warm and inviting.

She was weightless.

Tranquil. Calm and filled with peace.

The sun was setting and the stars were becoming visible above her. It was a simple scene, minimal features with very little detail, but she was happy.

 

Morpheus, satisfied with her deep dream state, moved onto her older sister, Annabella. In the Waking World, she was mentally limited and nonverbal and this followed her into the Dreaming but here her talking soft toys made up for her silence with their loud clatter. They sat on a picnic blanket, teasing and shouting, stealing food from each other’s plates. Annabella sat in the middle, perfectly content. Nothing concerning.

 

Onto Christian, Annabella’s twin. From what the Dream Lord could understand the young man, just entering his teenage years, clearly struggled with his temper and aggression but was trying to contain it. He was dreaming of being a wrestler, world famous and praised. But more than that, he wanted to be able to leave his violent tendencies in the sports ring. It was dream filled with hope that one day he would reach success, not so such for the fame but for the control.

 

While perhaps unusual to have that self awareness in one so young, nothing here troubled Morpheus so he continued on. 

 

Alyssa’s other sister Violet was ten years older than her at nineteen and dreamt of lust and decadence, wanting adoration and an older man’s hungry gaze. Yet again he found nothing strange beyond the vast difference between the eldest and youngest sibling. 

 

Their mother Zoe was similar to the eldest in dreaming of romance and opulence, only this was with a famous TV star. The father Grant was having a nightmare about public humiliation and ridicule, his fears for an upcoming presentation clouding his mind and forcing him to relive a failed speech from his youth.

 

Normal. Ordinary. Nothing at that would indicate a link to Alyssa Holloway’s unusual skill. 

 

He returned to the library to share his findings. Lucienne and Mervyn were discussing the girl when he and Matthew arrived.

 

“Can’t see nothing wrong with her if you ask me,” Mervyn was saying. “Not if she does no harm.”

 

“You believe she poses no danger then?” Morpheus asked as he joined them.

 

Mervyn shrugged. “I dunno, just seems nice enough to me. She helps hold my ladder from time to time. Only complaint I got is she moans about my smoking.”

 

Morpheus hummed, considering before asking Lucienne, “And you?”

 

“I have never noticed anything untoward. To be honest I never truly realised she wasn’t just dreaming.” The librarian smiled fondly. “She’s sweet. Polite. She’ll even listens to my recommendations. She likes the classics, which is so unusual for this era; Aesop’s Fables, Dickens, The Olde Tales…”

 

Dream nodded. “The danger to herself seems negligible. Her state doesn’t effect her negatively and, even with only intermittent deep dreams, she receives what she needs from the realm. Her talent is not intrusive to the other dreamers as it was with the vortex. They perceive her as a natural part of their dreams.” 

 

Decided, he continued, “I am unable to take action against a mortal unless there is a threat to us but it seems, at least for now, she poses no risk.” They all looked relieved even as he cautioned. “Still, we will keep an eye on her, perhaps encourage her to dream normally? I will not have to repeat of the damage Rose Walker did.”

 

His experience with the vortex had already influenced how he approached this newest oddity. He hoped it was enough to keep her receptive, should any intervention be needed later.

For now, he would leave her in Lucienne’s care and, as long as she did not disturb the other dreamers, he would leave her be and continue his regular work of maintaining the Dreaming.

 

Notes:

Feedback loved!

Chapter 2: Twelve - The Warm Fire

Summary:

Matthew makes a friend

Notes:

Not a bird expert so please don’t roast me on incorrect techniques 😂

Chapter 2: Twelve - The Warm Fire

 

Matthew hadn’t really thought about Alyssa in years. He had seen her around in passing but not really registered her beyond her being a visitor to the Dream realm. 

 

He had followed Morpheus into the library so his master and Lucienne could continue having their argument about the nightmare Voltis’ recent antics and whether it should be tolerated. When he landed on the top of a high backed chair, he startled the girl hidden from view in the plush seat.

 

“Oh!” she exclaimed.

 

He cawed his apology, “Sorry kid. Didn’t mean to make you jump.”

 

He hopped down to the arm rest and her hand reach out to touch him before retreating quickly. She looked round the chair up at Morpheus who had paused his argument at the attention.

 

“Can I touch him?” she asked.

 

“His name is Matthew. Ask him,” he replied before turning back to his librarian.

 

Ally looked sheepishly back at the raven. “Sorry. Can I?”

 

Matthew shrugged his wings. “Sure.”

 

She was so careful, using the back of two fingers to stroke upward against the small feathers around his ears.

 

He sighed with how nice it felt. “How’d you know how to do that?”

 

“I read it in a book,” she grinned. “Always wanted to try. Thanks for letting me.”

 

“Sure thing kid, any time,” he sighed again when she hit a good spot. “Oh yeah that’s the ticket.” And she laughed at his obvious enjoyment.

 

“So, what you reading?” he asked after a bit.

 

“Little women,” she replied. “Have you read it?”

 

“No but I saw some of the movie.”

 

“Really?” She was surprised but amused.

 

“What?”

 

“Sorry, just the idea of a raven watching a movie…”

 

“Like a bird reading a book isn’t strange,” he retorted and she giggled. “Well I wasn’t always a raven.”

 

“Really?” Now that peaked her interest.

 

“I was a mortal, like you. When I died I became this.” He waved his wings in emphasis.

 

Ally slumped back in the chair, amazed. “So is that what happens when we die? We become birds? Wow.”

 

Matthew back-pedalled quickly. “No! I mean, I know I did but that isn’t what happens. That’s just what happened to me.”

 

“Oh.” She looked so disappointed. “I like the idea of being a bird. All that freedom,” she said wistfully.

 

Matthew cast an eye back at the other two, still arguing. “Not as much as you’d think.”

 

She stopped petting him and he was about to protest but found she was looking at her hand as she started to disappear from the Dream Realm. 

 

She glanced at the book in her lap, “Can you say thank you to Lucienne for me please?”

 

“Sure thing.”

 

With a smile, she was gone. Matthew looked around the area, saddened. Ally was still so young, caught in the awkward age between child and teenager. A comfy chair, soft blanket and a good book seemed more suited to an overworked parent than a friendly 12 year old. He hoped her next dream would be more fun.

 

“See you later kid.”

 

Notes:

Feedback loved!

Chapter 3: Sixteen - Bravery in the Blood

Summary:

Invasion reveals a side of teenage Alyssa the Dream Lord was not expecting

 

Chapter 3: Sixteen - Bravery in the Blood

 

The wall was on fire. Blistering hot, it melted, the sand within collapsing and becoming glass, cooling into strangely beautiful shapes as they fell forward into the Dreaming.

 

The dreams screamed as the ground shook, the forming portal spewing out melting stone and scorching heat. 

 

There was chaos as everyone tried to flee, the humans and larger dream folk escaping easily on foot from the slow advance of the singularity but the smaller, slower creatures were getting caught up in the debris.

 

“No!” Alyssa shouted as Wiplit got caught under a falling rock, their body reverting to sand and crumbling away. 

 

Horrified, she scooped up Hop and Calk, small Tinkerbell-like dreams, and threw them up into the air so they might fly higher and out of the way of the pelted fragments.

 

In front of her, she could see the little girl who had been playing hide and seek mere moments ago. The child was frozen in terror. The mouse shaped dream perched on her shoulder was petrified as well.

 

Ally screamed at her. “RUN!”

 

But the girl’s eyes were locked on the monstrous creatures coming through the breach, unable to even look away. 

 

They were elf like but larger, torso and limbs excessively stretched, unnaturally long. Their once beautiful features were grotesquely twisted, with black veins protruding from their pallid skin making them look sickly and infected.

 

Ally knew she was too late. She couldn’t save them. She reached them, shoving the child behind her, using herself as a shield as she faced the monster that reached for them. Instinctively, her chin went up. She wouldn’t go down without a fight. She would protect them with everything she had.

 

The massive clawing hand was inches away from her skin when a wall of sand rushed up between them. 

 

Morpheus had arrived, Mathew in tow, Lucienne hurrying behind. The Dream Lord stood on a small rocky mound, letting the slight height give him a better view, his hands extended out as he concentrated. He quickly materialised more, thicker walls, surrounding the invaders destruction. The larger dreams returned to help with the evacuation.

 

Gault flittered down to Ally and the teenager handed off the child and dream-mouse to her. “Get them out of here.”

 

The winged dream was quick to comply as Lucienne stepped over. “That was very brave,” she said, placing comforting a hand on her shoulder.

 

Ally shook her head, quiet, still feeling the adrenaline rush and sound of her own pulse in her ears. She fought to catch her breath. She tried to remind herself that this was all just a dream but it was difficult with the terror echoing in her heart. Her eyes went to the thickening walls, finding reassurance in that.

 

“What are they?” she managed to ask Lucienne. The librarian shook her head, not knowing, and they both looked to the Endless.

 

“They are the Banished,” Morpheus explained. “Fairy folk who have been exiled from their own realm. I had heard they had begun to obtain power by drinking the stolen blood of demons. I did not think them foolish enough to attempt invasion.”

 

Ally’s face showed her disgust, “They’re horrible. Like nightmares.”

 

The Dream Lord’s head tilted up, “My nightmares serve a purpose. They are designed to help the dreamer face their fears.” He shared an inspired look with Lucienne. 

 

“So what do they fear?” asked the librarian.

 

In an instant he knew. Eyes alight with determination, Morpheus raised his hands again, power ready at his fingertips. “Retribution.”

 

Ally watched at golden sand swirled in front of Morpheus, solidifying into a bulky human form and then, in an instant, transforming into a live being. She was tall, dressed in a strange leather outfit with large, black, bat like wings.

 

She was beautiful, her white blonde hair styled to curl, framing her face and she had pretty eyes. Her smile though… Alyssa did not like that smile.

 

The newly formed nightmare flexed her wings, her form dwarfing Morpheus’ own. Power seemed to emanate from them. 

 

“Do you understand what you need to do?” he asked.

 

After a pause, she replied a simple, “Yes.”

 

She looked like she would say more but stopped to watch as the golden grains whipped up again to form a demon army. She seemed a little too pleased with her followers, head swinging back, serpentine, to stare at the Dream Lord, almost in challenge.

 

In reply Morpheus’ own head tilted, looking up at her face, making sure there was direct eye contact. His tone was deadly. “You are not the Lightbringer. You are barely a flickering candle. Do your task and return to me. I will not have you be as disobedient as your original.”

 

The nightmare blinked, smile and stare dropping away, cowed into submission. Her wings flapped and she moved away to join the other nightmares, taking their place at the rear, like a general.

 

“Who is she? I mean, who is she supposed to be?” Ally whispered to the others.

 

“That,” Matthew replied, “is Lucifer Morningstar.”

 

“As in-”

 

“Yep. And the boss did a really good job. They’re just like that.”

 

Alyssa watched, wide eyed, as she, no, they flapped their wings, rising high. They were glorious and terrible to witness. 

 

Morpheus opened the walls, allowing his army to surge forward, charging the invaders with war cries.

 

“You have stolen what is not yours take,” the winged nightmare said, their voice echoing across the assembled hordes. “Worse,” they continued, smiling. It was not a pleasant smile. “You have stolen from me.”

 

The Banished were quick to flee at the sudden sight on their enemy. The magic casters, who stood close to the breach, were some of the first to run. As they fled, their spells disbursed and the strange crystalline statures they had been using to channel their energy exploded, covering the retreating forces with millions of deadly shards. The portal collapsed to the sound of their screams, closing the gateway between the two realms, separating them before the two armies could truly engage.

 

The devil lookalike was smug in their success. They returned as ordered but their face was almost a sneer. However, their expression quickly turned fearful as the army behind them disintegrated, returning to sand at a flick of the Dream Lord’s wrist. When they didn't join the golden grains, they looked back to their creator. Morpheus was contemplating. 

 

“I may yet have need of you, Little Candle,” he said, naming them. “You will follow Matthew to where the nightmares dwell. I believe you will be most effective in keeping the Banished from attempting invasion again.”

 

While they clearly didn’t care for their new name, they bowed their head and took flight, following the raven across the Dreaming, while Morpheus began reshaping the walls back to their original form.

 

Curious, Ally asked Lucienne, “I thought there’d already be a Lucifer in the nightmare realm?”

 

“Yes, there is,” she replied. “But not as detailed. Most beings only have a general idea of a shape or an exaggerated, stereotypical character. This is a true likeness of how they present themselves.”

 

“Oh.”

 

“Lucienne?” Morpheus called for the librarian’s attention.

 

“Yes my Lord?”

 

“We must send word to the other realms. Their use of Babylonian crystals is troubling.”

 

“Yes my Lord. I shall arrange it straight away.”

 

Lucienne nodded to Ally as they separated, Hop and Calk calling and waving the teen over to where the dreams had all gathered to watch the wall’s reconstruction.

 

“Alyssa Holloway.” Morpheus words stopped her, turning her back around to face him, surprised at the attention. “You tried to defend this realm and those within it. I will not forget that.”

 

Ally blushed bright red at the recognition. He bowed his head as she waved off his gratitude and stumbled away, going to join the others.

 

Lucienne couldn’t quite contain her little laugh. Morpheus turned his gaze to her, inquiring.

 

“Apologies my Lord. It’s just… she’s been reading a lot of Byron lately.”

 

Clearly, he didn’t understand so she let it be.

 

 

Notes:

Anyone get the reference at the end? 😉

Feedback loved!

Chapter 4: Sixteen - Gratitude

Summary:

Feeling indebted, Morpheus attempts to craft Alyssa’s perfect dream.

 

Chapter 4: Sixteen - Gratitude 

Feeling he had a debt owed, Morpheus devoted some time into crafting the perfect dreams for her. The awareness she had to the Dreaming made it a challenge but, in his arrogance, he felt it easily achievable.

 

Remembering the pool he had seen before, he started with tropical paradise; a stunning sunset filled with all the colours of the sky, mirrored in calm lulling surf, the softest of sand, exotic animals and fish, and friendly people ready and willing to fulfil every whim. 

 

She shied away from it. It was too much. She couldn’t accept the extravagance of the fantasy. It made her uncomfortable. And sad as she would want to share the experience but knew in the Waking World the family could never afford such a holiday. He reverted it back to the simple, warm pool, keeping the other details blurry as it had been and she settled back into contentment.

 

A few nights later he tried again, keeping her family in mind instead. He crafted an elaborate dinner, tables filled with every kind of food, everything looking delicious and mouthwatering.

 

Another failure. She wanted Violet there, but her eldest sibling had long since abandoned the family to pursue her own happiness, swearing she would never return unless someone was dead. Despite their turbulent relationship, Ally missed her oldest sister but knew she would never attend.

 

Annie wasn’t able to sit through such an event and Ally knew to try and make her would be wrong. The girl wandered away from the table to do laps around the room, completely ignoring the food and her family who ignored her in return. 

 

Christian loved food and scoffed it down in exuberance. And, as always, their parents scolded him in an overly berating, snide way and his temper flew, words cutting deep, words she knew he would regret later. 

 

If Morpheus changed them to act as he wanted then Ally would drown in her own guilt. He had seen her nightmares; locked away in her own mind, unable to speak or communicate in any way, or her body and tongue not her own as she hurt the ones she loves. He knew Ally always felt so guilty about it as it was a nightmare to her but everyday life to the twins. 

 

On watching the family fall into disarray, she shook her head sadly. She was far too used to such sights. Normally she would intervene, at the very least lead Annie away from the noise before she became overwhelmed but tonight Ally told herself firmly, “Just a dream.”

And she walked away. She kept walking until she awoke.

 

His next try was better but still unsatisfactory. Ally had a crush. A boy in the year above her at school. He was tall and dark, with warm brown eyes. She loved to watch him play his guitar. So Morpheus created a fantasy for her, keeping it simple; a date with the boy to the fair ground, somewhere she’d only been twice but had enjoyed the ambiance and fun. They rode the roller coasters, played games and walked through the hall of mirrors. In the last, the dream boy went to kiss Ally. She stopped him dead. 

 

“No! Please…” She shook her head firmly. “I know this isn’t real. Please, don’t do that.”

 

She was too aware of her dream state to accept it. To her, it felt like a violation. The dream boy was quick to back off.

 

“I’m sorry,” he said, then smiled hopefully. “If you change your mind…?”

 

She smiled, pleased he didn’t push further. “Thanks. Um… want to ride the roller coaster again?”

 

He beamed and she laughed.

 

The following night, Ally talked to Lucienne about it. 

 

“I’m not sure what’s been happening to my dreams the last few weeks. They seem really strange. Well,” she laughed awkwardly, “stranger than usual. Is something happening?”

 

The librarian tried to reassure the teenager and once Ally had left, later she found herself looking over her glasses in reprimand at the Dream Lord.

 

“I will not fail again,” he declared despite her urging to just leave the girl be. 

 

He looked deeper, searching the history of her life for any inspiration of what might make her truly happy. Having found it, he told Lucienne, not quite looking for approval, but, thankfully, she agreed whole heartedly and they set their plan into motion.

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

The plush green field was alive with revelry. The palace staff had been overjoyed at their unexpected day off. Despite protesting, Mervyn had been dragged in and so he stood by a gramophone, turning its handle. After a while even he looked begrudgingly happy. Goldie chirped merrily next to him.

 

The dream folk laughed and clapped as Cain shouted instructions from his book for the next dance.

 

“Abel! You dunderhead! You’re supposed to go right!”

 

“My fault!” Ally called back. “I led him the wrong way!”

 

Cain grumbled to himself before continuing with the directions.

 

Abel knew Ally didn’t like it when Cain was mean to him. “It’s ok,” he whispered. “I did go wrong.”

 

She smiled, reassuringly, “Well so did I.”

 

He grinned back at her and he led her round their group before they took up their places again, clapping along with the rest.

 

Morpheus allowed a small, pleased smile as he heard her laugh joining the other’s. Her early memory of a barn dance where she had run around with her late grandparents, pink cheeked and giggling had been almost completely lost. He had found that spark of joy and returned it to her as well as provided entertainment for the denizens of the Dream realm.

 

Lucienne would call that smile smug if asked. She watched with him, smiling too as the cheer went up from the successful set, the music pausing for a small break.

 

Alyssa came over to them, a little out of breath and glowing with delight. 

 

“Are you joining us?” she asked them, not wanting them to miss out.

 

Lucienne shrugged with a smile, hefting her books. “I’m afraid it’s not really my thing.”

 

“Fair enough,” Ally replied graciously. She looked to Morpheus. “Are you?”

 

They were all a little surprised she had asked.

 

“No.” He said it bluntly to avoid any argument but the girl just accepted it, not looking to badger, just include.

 

Instead her gaze went to Matthew in inquiry. His little head tilted to the side. 

 

“Not sure how I can cut a rug like this,” he said, wings flapping.

 

She considered it then asked, “How about a ride?” She tapped her shoulder, smiling.

 

Matthew liked the idea but looked to his master first.

 

“If it is what you wish,” he allowed.

 

The raven let out a caw. “Let’s boogie!”

 

Alyssa giggled as he perched on her shoulder. His wings spread out to help keep his balance as she skipped and twirled. Their laughter filled the air.

 

Lucienne left them to it but Morpheus continued to watch, his small smile turning fond.

 

 

 

Notes:

I love the cannon that Dream does not dance, but seriously could you imagine? 🕺🏻

Chapter 5: Nineteen - A Simple Melody

Summary:

Morpheus finds Alyssa in the music room

 

Chapter 5: Nineteen - A Simple Melody

The palace had a music room, but to call it that hardly did it justice. It held every type of instrument ever created from simple one-note ceramic jugs and triangles to intricate harps, horns and violins. There was even a colossal organ with an absurd number of keys and pipes that seems to disappear into infinity.

 

Alyssa sat at a humble upright piano. She had been enchanted at the blank sheet music on the stand. As she played, ink emerged on the paper, copying down the notes. If she didn’t like a part, she would go back and try again and then notation would correct itself. 

 

It was fun. Magical. 

 

She was lost in the music she was making, completely unaware of her surroundings.

 

“I do not recognise this piece,” said Morpheus.

 

Ally nearly fell off her bench chair in shock. To see him looming over her, the serious look on his face, she immediately apologised, “I’m sorry! Lucienne said it was ok to be in here. I’ll go-”

 

“You are welcome here Alyssa Holloway,” he said, interrupting her ramble.

 

She swallowed, “Are you sure? I can go. I’m just messing around.”

 

“Humans are generally not able to truly compose in the Dreaming. They believe it is their own work, however it is simply a forgotten memory. You are producing something new.”

 

She shook her head, self-deprecating, “I’m not really composing.”

 

“The paper would not record your efforts if it was not something definitive.”

 

“It’s not very good, I haven’t finished it,” she replied, still reluctant.

 

“It matters not. Whether a full concerto or simple melody, all music is documented here. Yours will be as well.” 

 

“But it’s not a story,” she countered, looking for an excuse. “I thought you only recorded stories.”

 

“Music is simply another form in which to tell them.”

 

He was interested. The Dream Lord always found humans oddly fascinating when they were being creative for creativity’s sake. 

 

“Play.”

 

“Are you sure?”

 

He didn’t repeat himself, merely stared down at her, waiting for her to comply with his order.

 

Ally sighed, hesitating again as she put fingers to keys but didn’t start. Peering up at him, she asked, gesturing to a nearby stool, “Can you sit down? You’re kind of putting me off.”

 

She was used to an audience thanks to her siblings but his intimidating presence was a great distraction.

 

He lowered himself into the nearest chair and, after a few false starts, she tried again to get into the flow of her piece. It was amateurish, and her influences of Beethoven and Brahms were clear, but it was a genuine melody and, as Alyssa played with and reduced the tempo and pitch, it became poignant. 

 

She didn’t know how much of herself she put into her music. He could hear it, beyond her happiness in her creativity and the small joyous sparks of inspiration that flowed from her. 

 

Melody melded with what his powers could gleam of her and it became a story of her life.

 

She had changed much in the last few years. Morpheus could no longer see the child she had been. 

 

In the Waking World her time was stretched thin between her part time work, schooling and her home life. Her parents neglect of her worsened as they had piled more responsibilities upon her, especially the care of her sister and even her older brother. 

 

She had lost her virginity to brief tryst of passion but tried not to regret it. Recently, she had loved and had her heart broken by a callous young man who thought her beneath him. 

 

She had lost friends who had moved away and on with their lives, leaving her behind in her small town, making her feel bound and restrained. But she refused to abandon her responsibilities despite the  echoing, stinging words of her eldest sister in her head calling her a pathetic doormat.

 

She was still so grateful though. She had a roof over her head, food in her belly, classmates and colleagues that made her laugh and, despite their treatment of her, a family she loved. 

 

And she had her strange, strange dreams where she walked among friends in a wondrous land, explored an never ending  library, and spent time just existing without expectations. And while there were times she thought she had gone mad because of these dreams that no one else seemed to understand, she’d loved them too much to ever think of giving them up.

 

She was incredibly expressive but unknowing of the fact and Morpheus became utterly absorbed in the story she was telling. When the music paused mid bar, it was jarring to him.

 

“Why have you stopped?” he asked.

 

She kept her eyes on her fingers. “That’s as far as I ever got really. Our piano was broken so I couldn’t play anymore.”

 

“Could it not be repaired?”

 

She shook her head sadly, “Chris destroyed it pretty well. It was too expensive to fix and we couldn’t afford a new one.”

 

“Finish it.”

 

She blinked at his command.

 

“You have a piano here.” Unfinished works had always bothered him more than he cared to admit. He knew of the fragility of life and how fleeting inspiration could be. He also knew now of humanity’s regrets of unfinished business. He did not want that for her. “Complete your piece.”

 

“I’m not sure I can…” She was worried she’d disappointed him but again he just sat there, unmoving, waiting. 

 

Chagrined at herself, and slightly annoyed by him, she straightened in her seat. She let his confidence in her and her exasperation at him motive her. “Alright, I will.” 

 

Her lips pursed in concentration, she returned to the music, writing and rewriting, frustration eventually giving way to success as she toiled the night away. She felt it was much better than when she started, more refined and with better flow. She doubted she could do better than that at her current level but she was content.

 

As the final note reverberated, she sighed, satisfied. The paper’s ink completed the last note and she gathered up the sheets, looking at them proudly.

 

She glanced at Morpheus, unsure, then handed over the small stack. “Here then. For you.”

 

He took it from her with reverence. She did not know that at her words a small note of gifting had been added near the top. 

 

He stared at the words asking, “What is it’s title?”

 

Her face screwed up in consideration. She hadn’t even thought about it. 

 

Struggling Ally looked around the room, then at the papers cradled in his hands. She smiled in her inspiration. 

 

“‘Dreaming of a Melody’.”

 

 

Notes:

How’s that for a plot device for more background? Any good?

Chapter 6: Twenty - The Rain

Summary:

A walk in the rain…

 

Chapter 6: Twenty - The Rain

Morpheus frowned as he left the library unseen after he had overheard Meryn complaining to Lucienne.

 

“Melodramatic mopey bastard,” the pumpkin had said. “I love the guy but we’re all going to drown at this rate, Loosh.”

 

He knew this latest heartbreak was causing disruption in the Dreaming. It hadn’t even been love. Not truly. Just the idea of it. He didn’t want to admit, even to himself, that he had clung to it a little too desperately.

 

The upset would pass. It always did. In time. The rain had already eased to a misty drizzle.

 

Most of the dream folk stayed in doors or nearby to shelter so he was surprised to see a figure walking along the water’s edge.

 

Curious despite himself, he made his way out, recognising Alyssa and, feeling oddly nostalgic given how they met, walked to meet her.

 

“You do not mind the rain?” he said in lieu of greeting.

 

“Oh, it’s you.” She was soaked through but completely unfazed by it, utterly distracted by her own thoughts. Instead of her usual soft pyjamas, she was dressed in jeans and a jumper, having fallen asleep during the day. Most unusual, as was her detached expression and the way she had her arms wrapped around herself, huddled.

 

“Is something wrong?”

 

She blinked at him owlishly, then looked away, swallowing. It was still so hard to say. “My parents died.”

 

That stopped him short. Mortality was the curse and blessing of humanity. He considered what he knew of her family; her parents were still relatively young, but the dangers of life were extreme and excessive.

 

“My condolences Alyssa Holloway,” he said somewhat awkwardly.

 

“Thank you,” came an automatic response.

 

“I know it may not be a comfort, but death is simply another part of the natural rhythm of life.”

 

“They hit a patch of black ice. Doesn’t feel very natural to me,” she replied sharply but immediately regretted it. “Sorry.” Ally took a deep breath, ashamed at her outburst. “I’m sorry. I am. And I get your meaning. These things happen every day.”

 

She shrugged helplessly, accepting but horribly pained. Grief was etched deeply into her. He thought of his own experiences as they continued walking along the water. 

 

“Some time ago I accompanied my sister while she worked,” he told her.

 

Surprised at the change of subject, and that he was sharing anything with her, and that he even had a sibling, she queried woodenly, “Your sister?”

 

“Death.”

 

“Death is you sister?” Stunned, she stopped walking. He just stared back at her.

 

“Wow,” she said eventually, rocked, before her long pause prompted her to awkwardly attempt to joke. “Must make family dinners interesting.”

 

“Yes they are a challenge,” he replied, completely serious. They continued their amble after a beat.

 

“So what was it like? Seeing her work.”

 

“She reminded me of things I had long forgotten.”

 

It was her turn to frown at him but he continued. “No matter. But know that your parents were not alone when their time was up. She was there to guide them to the Sunless lands.”

 

Ally took a moment to absorb that. “Do you think they’re at peace?” she whispered.

 

“I know not,” he replied honestly. “But they had a companion for the journey, a hand to hold as they departed. I hope that is some comfort to you.”

 

Touched by his efforts, she stopped again. She surprised him by placing a hand against his arm. 

 

“Thank you. That… It means a lot to hear that,” she smiled sadly, grateful even as she shrugged, bittersweet, “even if this is just a dream. Thank you…”

 

She struggled as she realised she had no real clue how to address him. “What do I call you? All this time and I’m still not sure.”

 

“I have many names.”

 

Ally gave a little laugh. “I know; Prince, King, Lord… That’s why I’m not sure.”

 

“I am Lord Morpheus,” he automatically replied with his usual response. “Dream of the Endless.”

 

Her smile lingered, amused. “A mouthful but alright.”

 

Dream immediately thought of Hob Gadling and his almost identical reaction so he relented.

 

“I am monarch of this realm but my service is to the Dreamers. You may call me Morpheus. Or Dream,” he allowed.

 

Surprised at the lack of title, she hesitated but then said, “Just Alyssa for me then. Ally.”

 

“Alyssa.”

 

His tiny smile made an appearance and she returned it as they continued to walk, distracting themselves from their woes with a conversation about names and their origin and meaning.

 

As they took their steps, Dream considered that perhaps having another human friend would not be so bad.

 

Neither noticed the rain had stopped.

 

 

Notes:

So this could be read as Thessaly or someone else. I wanted to keep it vague as it’s more about Morpheus’ disastrous attempts at relationships than anything else. Hope that helps with any confusion 🫣

Chapter 7: Twenty Two - Flower Crowns

Summary:

Lucienne asks for assistance

 

Chapter 7: Twenty Two - Flower Crown

Externally, Lucienne had a somewhat convincing facade of calm but internally she was fretting. She knew she was frowning, despite trying not to as she looked through another dream chronicle, trying for the umpteenth time to find a different solution. If Mervyn had been there she knew he would have said something about wrinkles.

 

Her Lord was busy and she didn’t want to trouble him with something trivial but it seemed she would have to.

 

She went to search for another book only to return to find Morpheus studying the pile she had scattered over the desk. 

 

“Lucienne. What is all this?”

 

She sighed. “I’m sorry my Lord but it’s the recent upheaval with the nightmares…”

 

The loss of the Corinthian had created something of a power vacuum within the nightmare realm and over the years the nightmares had seemed to have settled down. There were the odd flair ups though and while the Dream King was quick to deal with them, there was always lingering consequences.

 

“That matter has been dealt with. They are all back in line.”

 

“Yes but it has left a few dreamers with persisting fears.”

 

She handed him a book. “This is Juliet Thornton. She had a nightmare of Surtif but Docen joined in. As you can see, the poor child it still terrified but now it’s her own family she’s becoming afraid of.”

 

Morpheus read through the records carefully. It seemed the girl’s family had been struggling and she was feeling neglected, worried she would be abandoned. Things were now improving for the child in the Waking World, however the nightmares, or rather the fear, stayed with her.

 

“Gault is good with children,” he considered. “Perhaps she can assist in this.”

 

“I, um,” Lucienne hesitated, worried she’d overstepped. “I’ve already sent her sir.”

 

That provoked a raised eyebrow but not disapproval.

 

“While it did help, I wonder if another avenue might achieve better results.”

 

“What are your thoughts?” he asked.

 

She squared her shoulders to make her case. “I would like to ask Alyssa to talk to her.”

 

“Alyssa?” Dream’s eyes narrowed at the name. “She’s a human, not a dream.” 

 

“Yes but… she’s kind. She’s compassionate. And she’s a good listener. She had the own experiences with a… troublesome family and I thought perhaps her view point would be advantageous.”

 

Dream was silent as he thought this over. He did not want to involve her but he couldn’t think of a better idea.

 

“Very well,” he said, finally. “But I do not agree to this lightly. To have her interfere with the dreams of another could have unforeseen consequences. I will observe.”

 

The following night Lucienne approached Ally with her idea. She explained the situation, giving her, with Morpheus’ permission, Juliet’s dream chronicle, allowing her to look through it.

 

“You really think I can help?” Ally asked as finished reading.

 

“Yes,” Lucienne replied, with a nod.

 

“But I always tried to stay away from the other dreamers.”

 

“As you should,” Dream said firmly. Alyssa straightened, not liking his tone and he relented. “And you have done well to do so. Despite their acceptance of you, I ask that you continue in that manner. But on this occasion however, I will allow it.”

 

Unsure but willing to try, Ally asked, “So I’m to just go say hello?”

 

Lucienne smiled, encouraging, knowing her friend would do very well. “Yes.”

 

Xxxxx

 

Fiddler’s Green was a wonder. The different areas held so many states of natural beauty it always took Alyssa’s breath away; like the sparkling waterfalls which led to the meandering babbling brook, the deep echoing forest full of life and memory, or the lush fields bursting with every colour of the rainbow. She knew she would never get bored exploring it all.

 

Not far from the bigger waterfall’s pool was a small bird bath. It was a simple thing but beautiful and Alyssa loved it. And thankfully so did Juliet.

 

At Ally’s suggestion Juliet had started her dream in a dark nightmare, but with a very clear exit that only required the child to stand up and walk through it. Alyssa thought this would give her a sense of power and control, as well as relief at the freedom.

 

The girl exited into the woods and, walking straight, she came to the bird bath where she met Gault and Ally. The three spent the night there sat in the soft grass, talking, laughing and making daisy chain crowns.  

 

Despite them regrowing the moment they were picked, the winged dream had asked Fiddler’s Green for permission before plucking a single flower and in gratitude they had made metres of chain to loop round the bird bath and the nearby trees.

 

As they talked, Gault and Ally could see their efforts were working, the cloud of anxiety and sadness lifting from the child as the time passed.

 

Dream watched from a distance as Alyssa made another chain for Juliet and started to plait it into her hair. The young girl giggled as it tickled her neck. 

 

Morpheus nodded to himself. It seemed Lucienne had been right in her recommendation. Alyssa had done well indeed. Sat with Gault like that, it was as though she was a dream herself, as if she wholly and truly belonged there.

 

Juliet started to disappear, going to join the Waking World and they all waved goodbye as the Dream Lord made his presence known, coming to stand next to them.

 

Alyssa and Gault shared a smile before the dream took her leave. They watched as she flew away to attend to another dreamer.

 

“Do you think she’ll be okay now?” Ally asked, still worried.

 

“Yes. I believe the nightmare will no longer have its lingering effects,” Morpheus confirmed.

 

Her smile became pleased and slightly  proud. “That’s so good to hear. I was really worried I’d mess things up worse for her.”

 

“No.” His gaze returned to her. “You have performed admirably.”

 

A pretty blush formed on her cheeks at the compliment.

 

“It seems we owe you thanks,” he continued.

 

She blinked at him in surprise. “No. No, I’m just pleased I could help.”

 

She felt her own familiar pull of the Waking World and quickly passed him a flower crown.

 

“Here. For you,” she said as she handed it off with a lopsided smile as she disappeared. The idea of him wearing such a thing still amusing her as she woke.

 

He almost stopped her, wanting to see more of that smile, to talk a little longer. He stared down at the flowers in his hand. Thanks to Fiddler’s Green they would never wither and die as long as the dream lived. 

 

Dream thought her so strange. To be owed a boon, even a small one, by an Endless was not something to be easily dismissed, but she thought nothing of it.

 

And a gift. The second one she had given him. He was unused to receiving such things. Even in his long, long existence it had been a rarity to receive anything.

 

“So strange,” he muttered.

 

Notes:

Feedback loved x

Chapter 8: Twenty Three - Refrain

Summary:

Morpheus hears Alyssa’s music again and learns an awful lot about her and, perhaps, something about himself.

Chapter 8: Twenty Three - Refrain

 

He was more aware of her now. 

 

Morpheus did not go out of his way to seek her out but he acknowledged Ally whenever he saw her, be it gardening with Abel or painting with Mervyn, pouring over a new book with Lucienne or simply laying on the grassy bank, enjoying the view of the sky. He had even found her scrubbing pots with Tamaris in the kitchens.

 

They would exchange pleasantries and talk of simple things, about her family in general terms, his never ending changes to the realm, any new addition to the library and the like.

 

Though he wouldn’t admit it, pleased him greatly to see her. 

 

And hear her.

 

Alyssa was composing again. He could hear the melody long before he reached the music room.

 

As he had before, he used his powers to hear more than just the music and he was caught off guard by the range and complexity of her emotions; pain and sadness and anger and joy and happiness and satisfaction. There was still a lingering grief. The sparks of fury surprised him the most as did her severe anxiety but then so did the enormous depth of her love and loyalty.

 

He hadn’t known how much more difficult her life had become in recent years. She certainly hadn’t told him of it, not wanting to be a bother. Now the music did it for her. 

 

When her parents died, her eldest sister had returned as promised but to do little more than rob them, taking what she believed she was owed despite will and testament stating otherwise, before disappearing again. The pain and anger that had caused had been immense.

 

The financial strain was severe, especially as Chris returned home having relapsed from the upset, undoing all his hard work in managing his behaviour issues. His added income was been taken to pay back the damage he had done to his flat and flatmate’s property. He had been lucky to escape prison.

 

Annie had also suffered with the loss of her parents. With the change of routine, she could not cope and began to self harm, pulling chunks of her hair out. Her care had gone from private to socially funded and the lack of resources were near devastating for her.

 

Alyssa had done everything she could to keep the family together and stable, sacrificing again and again. Her own relationships disintegrated under the pressure. Frustrated by her lack of attention, her lover had cheated and left. Her education stuttered and her future fell to risk.

 

But she still had such hope. 

 

But simple, modest hope. 

 

That her brother would continue to regain his equilibrium. That the latest care plan would help settle her sister further. That once things had been fully resolved, she could reduce her long work hours enough to have time to finish her degree and find more meaningful employment.

 

And, as always, so grateful. Despite their parent’s poor financial planning and the eldest’s theft, they hadn’t lost the house. With careful scheduling, they had been able to keep Annabella with them and out of the local care home (or ‘Hell Home’ as Chris called it). They still got to see her smile. Their food choices were limited but they wouldn’t starve.

 

And Ally still found wonder and pleasure in the small things like the sun glistening on the top of clouds or the first stars of the night, the sound of rain and smell of petrichor, or the first sip of a hot cup of tea in the evening.

 

The unexpected lows and highs of life. So very human.

 

There was another dimension to it though, different from near everyone else; her cherished and treasured time spent in the Dreaming. She unknowingly stroked his ego with her compliments but he was surprised and especially gratified by her acknowledgment of the finer details he had incorporated, like the colour of a window pane or the texture of the marble arches or the way a waterfall sounded, positioned to echo its gentle roar.

 

Lucienne had also stopped to listen. She was stood near the doorway, just out of sight, eyes closed, lips curled in enjoyment. 

 

He knew Alyssa did not mind a closer audience. “Lu-” 

 

“Shhhhh!”

 

Stunned, Morpheus did exactly that.

 

“I’ll be with you in a minute Merv- My Lord!” Mortified, Lucienne’s was quick to apologise. “I’m so sorry sir. I did not know you had returned.”

 

“I have.” It was a hard thing to keep the amusement from his voice.

 

“I thought you were Mervyn.”

 

“Indeed.” 

 

She gave him a little embarrassed smile and his head tilted back to look down his nose at her, the edge of an answering one on his mouth and she knew she was forgiven.

 

“I was just listening. She’s been in there all night. Is it not beautiful?” she whispered, praising, peeking in and he did the same.

 

“Yes.”

 

It was beautiful.

 

She was beautiful. Sat at the piano, lost in her music, face showing her concentration but also a small smile as she worked.

 

Yes, she was beautiful.

And kind.

And brave.

And loyal.

And mortal. 

 

“Come Lucienne. To work,” he ordered. He was quick to move away, unwilling to entertain the stirring in his heart any longer.

 

 

Notes:

Happy New Year!
I just wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been reading my work, leaving kudos, comments, bookmarking and subscribing! It really means a lot to me and keeps me writing.
HUGE shout out to CrystalAris and Nimith531 for their comments that had me laughing and smiling!

As always feedback loved!
(Seriously, let me know if I’ve messed up any spellings or anything!)

Chapter 9: Twenty Four - Interlude

Summary:

A moment in the library…

 

Chapter 9: Twenty Four - Interlude 

 

“Lucienne?” Alyssa called again, checking around another stack. 

 

“Hey Ally,” Matthew called as he flew past, landing in a nearby chair.

 

“Hi,” she greeted brightly.

 

“Is something wrong?”

 

Alyssa jumped a little at the voice behind her. She hadn’t heard the Dream Lord’s approach at all. “Hello, I was just looking for Lucienne.”

 

“She is undertaking a task for me,” Dream replied, looking concerned. “Is there a problem?”

 

“No,” she reassured. “Nothing’s wrong.”

 

“Do you need something?”

 

She smiled at his question. Even after years of what she would cautiously call friendship, it still felt very special to have his consideration. “Nothing that can’t wait.”

 

Morpheus noticed the book in her hands and stepped up close. Not for the first time, Ally wondered if he knew about personal space; if she was reading at a table, he would always loomed over her or when they walked together, their arms would always be close enough to brush against each other. 

 

He plucked the book from her hands, turning it over carefully. She watched as his long fingers ran across the front cover. 

 

She had always liked his hands.

 

“Are you enjoying my niece’s most recent undertaking?” he asked.

 

“Your niece?”

 

“Yes,” he confirmed, eyes still on the book. “We met under complicated circumstances.”

 

“Wait… like in her books? Does that mean it all really happened?” she asked, amazed.

 

Dream gave a little huff. “Her first book had some elements of truth to it. The rest are pure fiction.”

 

She couldn’t help but find amusement in his tone. Rose Walker’s stories hadn’t been kind to him. Matthew’s little laugh was quickly covered by a caw at Dream’s reprimanding glance.

 

“I saw her on TV once,” Ally remembered. “I always thought she was just a human.”

 

“She is.”

 

“Oh.” In the stories, the main character hadn’t been but it lead Ally’s thoughts down an unfortunate path and she frowned.

 

“What?” he enquired, noticing it, curious.

 

“Nothing! I just…” She started and stopped awkwardly, embarrassed at been caught. “I mean I just never thought an Endless and a human would ever…” 

 

“It is forbidden for an Endless to love a mortal,” he said sternly, surprising her with the harshness of his words. “There are always consequences. Desire was able to circumvent the rules because they did not truly love Unity Kinkaid but there were still ramifications.” 

 

She didn’t know he was firmly reminding himself of that. She nodded, chastised, eyes dropping away. Awkwardly she looked to change the subject, eyes going to the raven who stood by, equally concerned by his boss’s severe tone.

 

“I liked how you were portrayed Matthew.”

 

“Yeah well,” he replied, trying, like her, to lighten the mood. “I’m the true hero of that story don’t you know.”

 

“Of course,” she replied with a tiny smile. She risked a glance at Morpheus and he was still watching her intently though his face was expressionless.

 

She stepped back, looking for an exit. “Um… I’ll leave you to your work. See you later.” 

 

She gave Matthew a little bow. “Goodbye Sir Hero.”

 

“‘Later, kid,” he replied but kept his attention on the Dream Lord as she left, watching her go.

 

“You OK Boss?”

 

Morpheus didn’t answer.

 

 

Notes:

Feedback welcome xxx

Chapter 10: Twenty Five - Welcome Home

Summary:

Mervyn notices that something is different in the Dreaming

 

Chapter 10: Twenty five - Welcome Home

 

Mervyn finished the painting on the metal fence, thinking it was about time for a well earned smoke break and that it wouldn’t be long before dinner and he might treat himself to a decent whiskey.

 

He pulled out one of his cigars and was about to light it when he glanced at the window.

 

“Huh,” he muttered to himself. “Now, how the hell am I supposed to fix that?”

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

Morpheus returned to the Dreaming feeling worn out. His latest quest has been exhausting. Stepping back into his realm was rejuvenating; he felt his powers pool and revive. He made his way across the Dream Land, inspecting as he went. All was well. Lucienne continued to do an excellent job in his absence. 

 

He entered the palace and went to one of the larger windowed doors, pushing it open to step out onto the balcony. 

 

Dreams flittered and ran about. He could hear the palace staff behind him going about their duties. And the hum of the dreamers as they entered and left his realm, engaging in their fantasies as they should.

 

His gaze fell on Alyssa, on the green, petting a gleaming white Pegasus, complimenting it on how beautiful it was as her hands stroked its head. Another had landed and nudged its head against her back and she smiled softly at it, patiently sharing her attention between the two.

 

He stopped just to watch the gentle scene and she spotted him. Her whole face lit up, giving him a little wave and he felt his own spirits lift in return. It was such a simple and genuine reaction but felt like the embodiment of a welcome home.

 

Again, a yearning began to form within him, that had only grown stronger with every time he had seen her. 

 

With the sun behind her, she was a vision of loveliness and warmth, the rays making her hair glisten. He watched her, thinking perhaps he would join her and greet her properly and he could-

 

“Errr…Boss?”

 

Morpheus was almost grateful for the interruption of these thoughts.

 

“Mervyn. What is it?”

 

“Well…” He scratched at the back of his pumpkin head awkwardly. “I figure it must be you but… any idea how long this is gunna last? Might screw up the plants is all.”

 

“Of what do you speak?” he asked, confused.

 

“Er, the sun?”

 

“The sun…”

 

The Dream Lord looked up and saw Mervyn was correct. The sun wasn’t where it was supposed to be. He knew his realm and it’s natural rhythms. The sun should have been further into it setting. Instead, it lingered in the sky, staying warm and soft.

 

Just how Alyssa liked it.

 

All dreamers had some small ability to manipulate their own dreams and their settings but this was as though the Dreaming itself was bending to her will. 

 

But it was unintentional. He studied her closely and could feel that. Whatever power she had exerted over the environment was not directed or exact, it was more a gentle hue, like a wistful request and the sun had answered it. It was clear she had no clue what she was doing and the effect it had had.

 

Morpheus turned sharply away from the balcony and strode back into the palace, not seeing Ally’s concerned look at his retreating back.

 

“Do not concern yourself. Night will fall shortly and return to its normal schedule,” Morpheus declared, leaving Mervyn behind. He reached out to feel the odd pause in tempo and he was quick to restart it, overtaking whatever unconscious influence Alyssa had on it.

 

He went to the library, quickly finding her books. Her dreams had reduced in number more and more over the years. Despite the distance he maintained from her, he had still taken note of her, had an awareness of her, but he had not realised just how much she had become more of a resident than visitor. 

 

He could no longer perceive her as he could the dreamers. What he knew of her was now mostly through what she, or her intricate music, had told him. He no longer knew her hopes or loves or fears or worries.

 

Looking through the record of her life in the Waking World, he had detected no great change in her, nothing that would indicate an external interference. The same with her life in the Dreaming. 

 

Frowning, he decided he would investigate further. If this was an evolution of her own abilities then, regardless of his own feelings, he needed to know what was happening. 

 

And whether or not it was a threat.

 

Notes:

Hey guys, quick question - would you like this fix separated into different documents for each act or keep it all as one?

As always, feedback loved and adored! X

Chapter 11: Twenty Five - Watch

Summary:

Morpheus investigates and Lucienne makes an observation

 

Chapter 11: Twenty Five - Watch

Over the next few days, Dream tracked her. He observed closely but made sure Alyssa could not see or sense him. He watched for any small nuance that would indicate a use of power, incidental or otherwise. 

 

The first night she spent happily with Lucienne. A writer they both liked had produced another book and for over an hour they sat discussing it and theorised what it could mean for the next instalment before the pair went to work organising and cleaning the library (or at least a very, very small part of it).

 

The next two were spent helping the palace staff with their usual work and errands. 

 

Then a trip to see Abel for a picnic in his garden with Goldie, stopping to play ball with small gargoyle. And here it happened again. 

 

The air around the House of Secrets was cool, chillier than usual. Abel had shivered and all Alyssa did was glance upwards. It wasn’t even a fully formed wish, just a vague desire to be warmer and the sun’s heat intensified by a couple of degrees. Abel noticed the gentle increase in temperature and removed his outer coat, looking much more comfortable. Cain eventually came to join them. It seemed like they all had a pleasant time until she left and Cain killed his brother immediately out of jealousy and spite.

 

Another couple of days where she explored Fiddler’s Green, watching other dreamers from a distance.

 

Then, a dream of her own.

 

Alyssa was entirely lost in it, giving herself over completely. It was a memory of an open air party, fresh and lingering in her mind; a rare evening off from her demanding life for fun and laughter.

 

The music was loud and the bass so low it was felt to the bone. The lights were dimmed with flashes of reds and yellow. The sea of bodies added warmth to the cool evening’s breeze.

 

She looked so different from the last time Morpheus had seen her dance. Gone was the sweet girl in soft, comfortable pyjamas.

 

Here was a woman, shapely and voluptuous, her body displayed in tight jeans and a teasing, flowing top, that gave just the hint of skin.

 

She had natural rhythm. Her supple body undulated fluidly to the beat, the steady movement of her hips hypnotic as her hands skimmed over the tops of her thighs, her sides and up into her hair. 

 

It was like sex; physical and sensual and utterly erotic. Unknowingly seductive, she was temptation itself. 

 

Heat began to pool within him. Morpheus knew if it had been anyone else, he would not feel this way. Such carnal and passionate desires were rare for him. Not for the first time, he resented his sibling’s gift to allow him to feel this way.

 

He left quickly, going again to the library to seek answers.

 

“My Lord?” Lucienne asked, catching her attention as he matched through the stacks.

 

He stopped, sighing, and turned to her, begrudgingly ready to ask for help. Without reference to himself, he told her of what he had seen and felt of Alyssa’s power, her unconscious use of it and how the Dreaming had responded to it.

 

“So far I have not noticed anything different about her or her actions,” he finished.

 

Lucienne shook her head, frowning, trying to recall any time she had noticed anything similar. She came up short. “Neither have I.”

 

They looked over Alyssa’s books again, going deeper into her family tree, searching again for any spark of power but Morpheus soon found Lucienne peering over the books to look at him.

 

“What is it?” he asked impatiently.

 

The librarian was hesitant. “My Lord, I don’t wish to overstep…”

 

“Speak your mind.”

 

“I have noticed a change in you, sir.”

 

“Me.” A statement not a question.

 

“Yes,” Lucienne continued on awkwardly, trying to find the right words. “Your…  attitude towards her has been… different, as of late.”

 

He didn’t deny it, though he was annoyed he had been so transparent even in this early state of his interest, but he struggled to find its relevance. “What of it?”

 

“You are the Dreaming sir. The Dreaming is you. Did you… give her permission? Allow her this ability? Unintentionally perhaps?”

 

“You think my ‘attitude’ towards her has caused this?”

 

“Is it not a possibility?”

 

He took a moment to formulate his reply. “I have formed stronger attachments before to others far more powerful than her. If there was to be such a consequence surely one of those would have trigger it also.”

 

“But given her unique ability to live in the Dreaming, perhaps this is an unforeseen development.”

 

“If that is the case, this could happen again and again and she may become a true threat to the realm. Even small changes could have devastating side effects.”

 

“Perhaps she can learn to control these powers?” the librarian asked, clinging to hope.

 

“They are powers we know nothing about. That she herself does not know the reason for. Is that not correct?”

 

Lucienne shook her head, worried now. “We’ve discussed it at length. She never knew why she is able to step out of her dreams.”

 

Morpheus straightened. His duty to the Dreaming coming first. Always. “Then we need answers. Now.”

 

Notes:

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Thanks again for all the wonderful support xxx

Chapter 12: Twenty Five - All the Wrong Questions

Summary:

Morpheus goes to the Fates for help

Notes:

Added a random DC character just for fun. The Eyes of Zariak are completely made up.

Chapter 12: Twenty Five -

All the Wrong Questions 

 

Despite his sense of urgency, Morpheus took some time to consider who he would go to. He considered Destiny for a moment but pride discounted the other Endless quickly. The goblin-like Eyes of Zariak required too much in sacrifice for too little information and he decided they probably weren’t powerful enough anyway. Having heard of her impressive powers, he looked for the Silver Sorceress and was surprised to hear of her death. Against Lucienne’s recommendation, he settled on the Fates.

 

“They were helpful to me in securing my tools,” he reminded her.

 

She didn’t remind him that of all the times they had been less than helpful or overly cryptic. Her eyes peered over her glasses at him in reluctance.

 

He ignored her, leaving her behind as he went about gathering his gifts.

 

He started with looking in the memory of an American backpacker where he found a quiet and dusty crossroads bathed in starlight.

 

For the sun, in a dream of a house bound elderly man, he found a sun catcher glittering beautifully, years of light and warmth soaked into it.

 

Butterflies representing growth and change where taken from Fiddler’s Green. He specifically included a few that had been created with Alyssa’s meadow.

 

In the mind of a child whose thoughts weren’t so different from Ally’s sister Anna he chose a selection of beautiful clocks, intricate in their design, each a different size and purpose. That would work for showing the years that had passed in the woman’s company.

 

And finally, the flower crown Ally had given him, kept and treasured all this time.

 

With reverence, he placed it at the centre of crossroads as his raven came to join him, landing on the ground.

 

“You sure about this, Boss?” Matthew asked.

 

He ignored the bird and called. “I, Lord Morpheus, Dream of the Endless, summon the Fates.” 

 

Immediately the sky filled with ominous dark clouds.

 

“The Three-Who-Are-One. The One-Who-Is-Three.”

 

Thunder and lightening reverberated and flashed as they approached. 

 

“The Hecate.”

 

As always they were beautiful and formidable, dressed impeccably with a superior look on their faces.

 

“Hello sweet Morpheus,” the Mother greeted.

 

“Thank you for coming ladies,” he replied with a bow.

 

“Ooh look at these!” The Maiden exclaimed, going straight over to the small hoard, fingers running over the crystal of the sun catcher. The butterflies flittered around her making her smile. 

 

Morpheus tried not to look perturbed when she plucked one out of the air to eat in one bite, like it was a canapé.

 

“But look at him sister-selves, all twisted in knots,” said the Crone, keeping her distance.

 

“And he’s impatient too,” deduced the Maiden with a cunning smile.

 

“Hence the clocks?” The Mother picked up the mantle clock, looking admiringly at it before smashing it on the ground. 

 

Matthew cawed loudly, startled, wings flapping at the aggressive movement. He and his master watched as she carefully pulled one specific cog from the ruins. 

 

“I like time,” said the Mother, pleased with her find. “There’s so little and so much of it. Treasured and wasted in every single breath. You honour your father, dear.”

 

The Maiden sashayed closer to the Dream Lord. She stepped on the crown, completely ignoring it, flowers crushing under her feet. Morpheus tried not to flinch.

 

Eye lashes fluttering, she teased, “You’ve come to ask us about the girl, haven’t you?”

 

Swallowing his upset, he replied cooly, “Yes. I have.”

 

“Well,” demanded the Crone, impatient. She sneered at Morpheus. “Time waits for no man. Not even his son. Ask your three.”

 

“Is she human?”

 

A vision of Alyssa with Gault in Fiddler’s Green talking together like she belonged flashed across him mind.

 

“Yes,” the Maiden replied, giving him a coy look. “But more she uses her abilities, the faster she will change.” 

 

“Change? Into what?”

 

“Now now Dream,” the Maiden scolded. “You know the rules.”

 

He tried to contain his frustration. “Apologies.”

 

Dream next thought was of Desire and their interference in Unity Kincaid and Rose Walker’s lives. 

 

“Is this my sibling’s doing?” he asked, a shot of fury going through him as his vision showed Desire and Despair in the former’s realm, conspiring. Desire’s smile was wicked.

 

The Mother shook her head. “No dear, not your siblings. Should things continue, their involvement will come in time.”

 

Morpheus faltered, honing in on the words used. If it wasn’t them, then-

 

“Am I effecting her? Is it my doing?”

 

The image of Ally came to him, her eyes meeting his, her warm smile lighting her face. Even this was enough to make his heart stir with want.

 

The Crone gave him a contemptuous smile. “Of course. Anything as insidious as love always warps and bends.”

 

It was a confirmation of a suspicion but he still felt rocked by it. He had fallen so deeply already.

 

“And with all the ruin that accompanies it.”

 

“Ruin…” he echoed.

 

“Poor Dream,” the Mother said, pitying. “He just can’t get it right.”

 

The Crone laughed cruelly and the others joined in before they, the sun catcher, butterflies and all the clocks were gone with a crash of thunder and flash of lightning.

 

After a long silence, Matthew cawed, “Boss?”

 

“They are right, Matthew.” Slowly, he bent to pick up the discarded ring of flowers, petals falling where the blooms had been trampled. 

 

“Well,” the raven said, tried to be comforting. “It’s not so bad is it?”

 

Morpheus seemed to sink into himself, hands tightening on the crown’s remains  as he replied, “Yes it is.”

 

“What are you gonna do?”

 

The Dream Lord finally looked at him, his eyes filled with sadness. “What I must.”

 

Notes:

Just a little add on here:
Why did Morpheus ask those questions?
Short Answer - plot lol!
Long Answer - hopefully you all agree with me that Morpheus can be very self centred and self absorbed. Instead of asking what she is (though the answer would still be human) he has to know if he’s right. Then where she gets the power from, he immediately thinks it’s about Desire and their spat.
Does that come across at all?

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Chapter 13: Twenty Five - Own Good

Summary:

Dream makes a decision for the good of the Dreaming

Notes:

Brace yourselves x

Also the sentence about truest selves is something Tom Sturridge said and it really stayed with me so I thought I’d add it in x

 

 

Chapter 13: Twenty Five -

Own Good

 

Ally playfully swatted Hop away as he tried to pull her hair again. Laughing she made to grab at him and Calk jokingly and they flew higher out of reach, pulling faces and chittering in their giggles.

 

The two dreams had joined Ally at the water’s edge. She had come into the Dreaming there and been glad of the quiet serenity the view, the calming sounds of water and soft grass had given her. 

 

Chris had brought his new girlfriend to introduce. While he seemed happy, she couldn’t help but notice how hollow his smile had been at times. He was clearly trying to convince himself that their relationship would work regardless of their incompatibility. 

 

The woman, Rebecca, had been nice enough but her attitude towards Annie, who had been playing happily by herself, had been poor. She didn’t say anything about it beyond, “So this is who you spend all your time with.”

 

Jealousy and resentfulness flowed from her in that brief moment before she quickly smothered it with a fake smile, completely changing the subject to the house’s decorations. Rebecca seemed to think the property was just Chris’ and that, despite only being together three months, she had a say in its interior design.

 

Chris had defended her, saying her words were only suggestions, but the prattle had exhausted Alyssa and she had been so grateful for her bed that night and the welcoming of the Dreaming.

 

She had been staring at the water’s reflection as a few clouds drifted lazily across the soft blue sky, enjoying the sight on the gently rippling surface when she had been interrupted. A touch of annoyance ran through her until she realised she was, in fact, in need of good company instead.

 

Their antics had been cut short by the change in the weather. Black clouds began to gather behind the mountains and the wind picked up, temperature dropping fast, so the trio had headed towards the palace to seek shelter from the coming storm.

 

They all stopped, giggling cut short, upon finding Morpheus in the foyer. He looked so serious. And sad.

 

Immediately, Ally went to him. “Are you alright?”

 

If anything that seemed to make it worse. He became stone-faced, straightening to his full height. He looked at his subjects.

 

“Leave us,” he ordered. 

 

The trio glanced at each other before the two dreams reluctantly flittered away, pausing at the door then moving off.

 

“What is it?”

 

The worry and concern she was showing felt like a twisting knife to Morpheus.

 

“Do you know what you do?” he asked gently.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“You have power Alyssa. Abilities beyond being able to live in the Dreaming.”

 

“What power?” Her face scrunched up with a frown.

 

“I know you do not mean to, that you do so unintentionally, but you have been manipulating the Dreaming. It is a small thing, changing the sun, making it warmer for yourself and others. But it will evolve.”

 

“I… I don’t understand.” She was completely confused by what he was saying. “I don’t… I don’t have powers. I’m don’t… I’m just me. How do I have powers?”

 

“I know not their origin,” he answered honestly. “I tried to find out but the answers I received were… not helpful in that regard.”

 

He paused before admitting, “And I have been allowing it, though it was not my intention either.”

 

He brought her to a window. The sun was trying valiantly to shine brighter and warmer against the gathering storm. “This is you.”

 

“What?” she breathed, still so stunned as she looked up at the sky.

 

“You can feel it, can you not? Concentrate.”

 

“I-I don’t-” she stammered before her words puttered away. Staring upwards she realised she could feel it. That warmth and wish and push.

 

“That’s me,” Alyssa whispered, awed though still very confused. 

 

It was painful to watch. To see the creeping wonder brighten her features, knowing he would have to snuff out that light.

 

“What…?” she managed, amazed, her hand going to touch the glass, reaching out as the sunlight tried to reach back.

 

“I know it is difficult to understand but the more you use your powers, intentionally or not, the faster you will change.”

 

“Change?” 

 

“Yes.” 

 

His tone made her look back at him and she could now see that this was what he was concerned with, worried about. More than that even, this was something she should be afraid of. 

 

That sense of wonder was immediately replaced with dread. Scared now, she asked in a hesitant, shaking voice, “Change into what?”

 

“I know not. And these powers may eventually go beyond the Dreaming, where I could contain it, and into the Waking World. That could be disastrous.”

 

She looked faint, going pale and unsteady. She wrapped her arms around herself, like she was trying to hold herself together, eyes dropping away as her mind worked to accept this new reality. “So what do I do?” 

 

Morpheus had no reassurance for her. Only a solution.

 

“You have to stop coming here.”

 

“What?” Her eyes returned to him, shocked. Then hurt began to seep in.

 

He had made this decision moments after the Fates had departed. He had considered the words they had used and thought perhaps there was a chance to avoid catastrophe. For the Dreaming.

 

For her. 

 

And for himself.

 

“In coming here you are using your power. Deliberately or not. You must stop. You must dream Alyssa. By not doing so you are becoming something else. You may lose your humanity entirely. And…” He stepped closer, not wanting to reveal the whole truth, but he felt she deserved more. “There could be other dangers if you stay. That could lead to ruin.”

 

“But I…” Her eyes had already taken on a shine, now they began fill properly. “I… this is my…”

 

She couldn’t finish her sentence but she didn’t need to. He hadn’t forgotten how safe and free she felt here, in comparison to the Waking. This was her home, in many ways more than her actual home had ever been. 

 

But it didn’t matter.

 

“What is dreaming if not an articulation of your truest self?” Morpheus’ voice was kind, but firm. “And you are not.” 

 

She was listening. She was hearing him. She was resistant though until he said:

 

“It is for your own good.” 

 

He didn’t know if those words were for her sake or for his. She gave a sad laugh at them, completely empty of humour. 

 

“I say that to Annie all the time,” Alyssa explained with sad and quiet bitterness.

 

It took a long moment but Morpheus could see she was finally, and completely, accepting his words; she looked utterly defeated. It was a hollow victory.

 

She nodded woodenly. She took one last look out the window. The sun was barely there, its light shuttered as it still struggled to break through the dark, churning clouds. It’s warmth was like a lingering caress on her face, almost as if it was saying farewell to what could have been.

 

“I will wake you now and tomorrow, you must dream as you should.”

 

Again she nodded though more to herself this time. “I understand. I promise. Could-” Her words began to choke her, her composure finally faltering. “Please c-could you say goodbye for me? Lucienne a-and M-Ma-”

 

“I will.” He could not watch her agony any longer. He raised his hand, ready to send her back to the Waking World but she stopped him.

 

“W-Wait, please.”

 

Ally closed the small gap between them and pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek. As she pulled back, the tears she had wrestled with finally began to fall in earnest. 

 

“Thank you. I…,” She shrugged, unable to articulate in words just how grateful she was to have met him, all of them, to have her time in the Dreaming. She just didn’t have the words. “Just… thank you.”

 

Her tears mirrored the rain flowing down on the window. The sun was lost completely behind the storm. All sense of light and warmth had been extinguished.

 

“Good bye,” she whispered.

 

Dream waved his hand and she was gone.

 

“Good bye,” he replied to the empty room.

 

Notes:

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Chapter 14: Twenty Five - The Right Thing

Summary:

Morpheus informs Lucienne of his decision

Chapter 14: Twenty Five -

The Right Thing

 

 

“Matthew has informed you?”

 

If the storm hadn’t been raging outside, Lucienne might never have know how much the Dream Lord had been affected. He looked cold and unfeeling, completely detached from the situation.

 

“Yes,” she confirmed sadly.

 

“Good,” he replied, immediately turning to go, pausing to say over his shoulder, “She bid me to tell you goodbye.”

 

He took a step but she stopped him with her question, “My Lord, please, is there no other way?” 

 

Matthew, perched on her desk, had been fairly certain his master was set on this course of action but she couldn’t help but ask.

 

“It is for the best.” He barely spared her a glance.

 

“But what if her powers continue to grow regardless?”

 

“Then I shall address it, should the need arise.” He was firm and resolute. “For now she must have a chance. Her powers may even subside without a platform for her to use them. She must be allowed every opportunity to regain her humanity completely.”

 

The librarian opened her mouth to argue again but Morpheus forestalled her. 

 

“I have made my decision Lucienne.”

 

His tone brook no argument and she sat back in her chair, dejected.

 

“At least she’ll have lots to dream about,” Matthew put in, trying to look for a positive. “I bet the others will be lining up to visit.”

 

“No,” Morpheus refused, loosing patience, “they must not “visit” her.” 

 

“But Boss-”

 

“She must dream as all Dreamers do, without interference.”

 

“But-”

 

“ENOUGH.”

 

Outside the lightening flashed and thunder boomed. Instead of his face being lit up by the flash, the Dream Lord became a void, dark and menacing. The air itself seemed to vibrate though it was unclear if it was from the thunder or from his words.

 

“No dream is to interact with her,” he ordered, temper flared, his voice echoing as if it was resounding throughout the whole of the Dreaming.

 

“Sir-” Lucienne tried to protest.

 

“Do not speak to me of her again.”

 

That was a threat. 

 

With one last imperious glare at them both, Morpheus turned and left them, coat billowing behind him as he strode away.

 

 

Notes:

Thank you for all the yummy kudos!

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Chapter 15: Part 2: Ruin. Reminders

Summary:

The little things that remind him.

Part 2: Ruin

 

Chapter 15: Reminders

 

Matthew was fed up.

 

“It’s like dealing with a hormonal teenager,” he complained to Lucienne, coming to land on the chair back next to her.

 

She sighed, glancing over to Mervyn who was stood at the window as the rain began to thunder down.

 

“Here it comes…” the pumpkin grumbled.

 

“What was it this time?” she asked turning back to Matthew.

 

“A butterfly,” Matthew sighed in return. “Just a butterfly.”

 

It had been months now and things seemed to settle until something or other would remind the Dream Lord of Alyssa. Then he would get sad and the weather would turn. He would then get frustrated and bury himself into his duties, busing himself with work that he would normally deem below him. This last week alone he had insisted on visiting the Waking, Goblin and Fae realms with simple messages. The raven was starting to feel like he was being made redundant. 

 

“And there goes the bedding plants,” Mervyn groused, annoyed as he took out a cigar. “Only just finished putting them in.”

 

“Merv, come on. You know he’d sort it out if you asked and it’s not like he means to do it, right?” Matthew said, trying to be understanding.

 

The pumpkin gave the raven a condescending look as he lit up, tone scathing. “It’s his shtick isn’t it. Gotta be the sad hero in the rain. Gotta make a big deal out of everything. Gotta make everyone miserable. And all over a girl.”

 

His disrespectful tone and insult to Ally stunned Matthew to silence. 

 

“We miss her too.” 

 

Lucienne’s words surprised them, her insight getting to the heart of the matter of Melvyn’s upset. 

 

Immediately, the pumpkin turned sad and remorseful.

 

“Stupid kid,” he muttered after a long moment, petulant but regretful. “Boss man can wiggle his nose and do my job in a heartbeat but I still do it. And she got that.” He shook his head, taking a drag. “She got it. And then she’d help! Stupid kid. Damn, stupid kid.”

 

“He’s doing what he thinks is right,” said Lucienne, firmly.

 

“Is it working? Has she stopped using her powers?” Matthew asked.

 

“Yes, as far as I can tell. Everyone has been told what to look for and no one has come to report anything yet.” She nodded to a book on the shelf next to her desk. “Lord Morpheus has not come to review her journal so I assume that he has not detected anything either.”

 

“How would he know? He’s hardly around. Except to wash the flowers away,” the pumpkin continued to gripe.

 

“Mervyn,” Lucienne scolded.

 

“But she’s doing ok?” Matthew asked.

 

At that, Lucienne looked reluctant and a touch guilty. “I’ll admit I have not looked. I think perhaps it’s better to abstain against the temptation.”

 

The raven nodded. “Yeah I get you.” 

 

He had had similar thoughts as well; to just fly over the Dreaming, seeing if he could spot her. But then it would just be so easy, to go, check in, say hi and then…

 

“Better this way,” he agreed quietly.

 

 

 

Notes:

Just a short one but I hope you all enjoy it x

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Chapter 16: Temptation

Summary:

Lucienne makes a worrying discovery

Notes:

Warning - Somewhat gross description of a nightmare mentioning blood so please be warned

Chapter 16:

 

Temptation 

 

 

It took another few months before Lucienne finally gave in and looked at Alyssa dream chronicle. 

 

She truly hadn’t meant to until she had seen Hop and Calk in passing. The dreams looked so sad, with Hop’s thin arm wrapped around Calk’s tiny shoulder, the latter looking wan and miserable.

 

It had been the way of late. So many dreams had been looking low in mood. Everyone was going about their normal business but there was an underlying tone that made her uneasy. 

 

She made assumptions because some still came to complain about the situation, about the odd deluge and the frigid air that would accompany it or simply how long it was taking for their master to “get over this one”.

 

And others would talk quietly about missing Ally and how it was unfair it was they couldn’t see her as they used to.

 

Matthew and Mervyn continued to gripe and bemoan at the situation also. 

 

She found it exhausting. And she missed her friend.

 

And so she had only meant to check, just to see if Hop and Calk had been in Ally’s dreams. She had grown up with the little dream folk. It wouldn’t have been a surprise if she had been dreaming of them. She considered that perhaps it was a good, happy memory and that was what had upset them.

 

She opened Ally’s dream journal, just to skim the last couple of entries, just to confirm her suspicion so she could better comfort Hop and Calk, but instead she was horrified by what she found. 

 

Quickly she gathered up the book and rushed to the throne room, finding the Morpheus about to leave again.

 

“My Lord, I must speak with you.”

 

“What is it Lucienne?” 

 

Despite her urgent tone, he was dismissive of her, moving to push past her but stopped dead on seeing Alyssa’s name on the book she carried.

 

Staring at it, he asked in a hushed voice, “Is she using her powers?”

 

His expression made her falter. She couldn’t quite identify it wholly but there was sadness and pain and dread. It all seemed to flow over him in a millisecond before being shuttered behind a shield of resolve.

 

“I… No my Lord. No I don’t believe so.”

 

“You are not certain?” Now his urgency overrode hers.

 

“I- I will double check but no one has reported any disturbances.”

 

The smallest sigh of relief came from him. “Good. That is… good.”

 

“But sir-”

 

“I do not wish harm to come to her.”

 

And suddenly she realised they were all being so unfair with their complaints, that in these last few months they had all forgotten why this had happened. 

 

They all cared for Alyssa but her Lord, he had been falling in love with her. He was King of this domain and it must be so tempting to just look. To go and watch her. To spend every moment with her, even if she could not see him. But he had resisted, focused on his duty instead.

 

And knowing, with or without his interference, that if her powers were a true threat to the Dreaming and it’s inhabitants, he might have no choice. Just like the vortex. He would have to be the one to kill her. 

 

And, because of the rules of the Endless loving mortals, it could all be his fault.

 

It was a cruel twist of fate.

 

“Of course sir,” Lucienne replied softly.

 

“What did you need of me?” He became expressionless again, though still impatient to go. 

 

Regardless of his facade, outside the cloud gathered again and the temperature dropped and Lucienne shivered. She shook herself, clearing her throat, “She’s having nightmares my Lord.”

 

Morpheus frowned at her, to bring up something so inconsequential, especially about her. “It is normal for a human to do so Lucienne.”

 

“But sir, they are excessive.”

 

“You know a nightmare’s duty to help a dreamer face their fears. She must simply face hers.”

 

“But sir, her dreams are-”

 

He would not hear her further. 

 

“Leave her be Lucienne,” he ordered her again, though softly this time. “We must… just leave her be.”

 

He disappeared into a whirl of sand leaving the librarian with her worries.

 

She huffed at him but understood and accepted his reluctance. Still, it was more than just the nightmares.

 

Lucienne leafed through the pages again as she head out into the Dreamscapes. Thankfully the rain stayed as a very light drizzle this time. Even so she was glad it didn’t take long to find who she was looking for.

 

“Pinwheel? Eventis? Do you have a moment?”

 

The two colourful dreams turned from where they had been rebuilding a rock tower and came closer to give the librarian their full attention, Eventis’ multiple ribbon-like limbs curling calmly around his body and he said hello. 

 

She held out Alyssa’s journal and said, “I wanted to talk to you about this.”

 

Immediately, the two dreams looked uncomfortable, avoiding eye contact. Pinwheel’s multicoloured fur drooped.

 

“Would you care to explain?”

 

The two looked at each before Eventis tried to explain, “It’s just… well, you heard the order. “No interference”. We just… did what he said.”

 

“Lord Morpheus, he sent the order, he did, he did. So we followed it. We did, we did,” Pinwheel agreed.

 

“But this wasn’t a normal dream. This is barely a concept,” Lucienne argued.

 

“Better someone else do it then, we thought, we thought,” Pinwheel countered but closed their mouth quickly at Eventis’ sudden glare.

 

“We just…” Eventis continued, fumbling, still frowning at Pinwheel for letting slip. “We just didn’t want to get it wrong. His Lordship has been so upset of late. What if we overstepped? We would get sent to the darkness, like Gault did. Or worse! Like the Corinthian.” 

 

“Don’t want that. We don’t, we don’t,” Pinwheel put in quietly.

 

“He simply wanted normal dreams for her,” Lucienne explained.

 

“Never had normal dreams, that one,” Pinwheel muttered petulantly, “Not her, not her. Couldn’t just accept it. Nope, nope.”

 

“She’s always been a tricky one,” Eventis shrugged. “It’s even harder now.”

 

“And the Nightmares have been around a lot. They have, they have.” Pinwheel got a looked of disgust. “Keep out their way, we do, we do.”

 

“I know,” the librarian accepted but keep her disapproval in her voice, “and I’ll be speaking to them next.”

 

“Don’t like them, we don’t, we don’t,” Pinwheel continued to mutter.

 

“What about other dreams? Have they been behaving the same way?” Lucienne glared at them over the top of her glasses. “Not fulfilling their duties as dreams?”

 

Eventis shifted, not meeting her eyes, wearing his guilt like a cloak. “You’ll have to ask them.”

 

“Not our fault. Not us, not us.”

 

“Regardless, normal dreams from now on please,” she said but it was not a request. “I’m sure once I’ve spoken to the nightmares she will return here.”

 

On her way to the Nightmare realm she spoke to eleven more dreams and it was the same story. Their fear of their master and any misinterpretation of his order had keep Ally’s dreams basic and over simplified. She had still been dreaming but Lucienne wondered if it had been enough for her to get what she needed from the realm. The dreams felt so guilty about it, but it hadn’t been enough to overcome their fears.

 

As the librarian approached the darker realm, she steeled herself. She gave a big sigh before stepping down into the nearest hole which led to it.

 

Most nightmares were the calm sort, reasonable in a way, duty bound in their functions but content in their existence. But there were always those that caused trouble, wanting more, overstepping boundaries and stirring up the others. 

 

Opening the gate and stepping through, she made sure to keep her head high as Yorn came to greet her. He wasn’t a troublemaker, just seemed to like his purpose a little too much. His bloody mouth always unnerved Lucienne, the red liquid gushing and splattering more whenever he was excited.

 

“Good day to you sweet Lucienne,” he said as he bowed low. He had the look of a sycophant, but he had a true devotion to his work and therefore his creator and his loyal staff. “What might we do for you today? Another census?”

 

“I’ve come to speak about a dreamer named Alyssa Holloway.”

 

Immediately, Yorn’s watery eyes lit up, “Oh yes, she’s a beauty. Hard to read but oh! Such fear!”

 

“Her nightmares are becoming excessive.”

 

“Well the dreams didn’t want her so what could we do…?” His playful grin was immediately undermined by the blood dribbling out of his mouth.

 

“I mean it Yorn,” Lucienne said firmly. “Tell the other nightmares, they need to release her back to the dreams.”

 

“As you command my lady,” he replied but shrugged his shoulders helplessly, “but she brings herself here sometimes.”

 

“What?”

 

“Well she’s got those fears, and we’re just doing what we need to, and so she stays.” He shrugged again. “But she is a strange one, almost like she wants to stick around.”

 

The nightmare gave another shrug then bowed low again and left her to go spread the word, leaving Lucienne with her worry and the hope that her actions had done enough and that everything would be as it should. 

 

But, as much as wish wanted to deny it, it was a small hope.

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Trickiest and least favourite chapter I’ve had to write so far but I love making up dreams and nightmares in my head! That’s good fun, the rest was a bit of a slog 💁🏻

Also think Tom Sturridge is a master class in micro expressions so he could pull of the milliseconds of Dreams torment, he’s so chef’s kiss in casting choice 😘

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 17: Intervention

Summary:

A pair of nightmares pay Lucienne a visit and Morpheus has a visitor of his own

Chapter 17:

 

Intervention

 

Mervyn stood in the doorway, waiting so he didn’t interrupt. It was rare to see the nightmares outside their own areas unless they were being disobedient.

 

“Yorn and Zero and Ijira have stopped as you asked. Mivier and Note too. Little Candle and Voltis have always just watched but the others… They relish in it. Something must be done,” Dor was saying.

 

“I understand-” The librarian tried to speak.

 

“It serves no purpose Lucienne!” Fere shouted, his black spines straightening. “Night after night! It’s not right! Not when there’s no reason!”

 

“I know,” she replied trying to calm him. “I will try to speak to Lord Morpheus again. I promise.”

 

“Something must be done,” warned Dor again. The nightmares looked to each other then bowed Lucienne, leaving her with their concerns.

 

“What’s going on Loosh?” asked Mervyn once they’d left.

 

“Some of the nightmares are growing concerned. They think Ally is loosing herself,” she said, her eyes turning sorrowful. She handed him Ally’s dream chronicles. “It’s been months and months now, with nothing but fear surrounding her. Her dreams almost immediately become nightmares.”

 

Mervyn chewed on the end of his cigar, considering, “Can’t she just leave? You know, stop dreaming… or nightmare-ing?”

 

Lucienne looked away, thinking hard, “I don’t know why she hasn’t.”

 

Mervyn frowned at the book. “This ain’t right Loosh. I mean, I’m not human, never was thank God, but I know people can’t deal with this sort of thing for too long. It messes them up.”

 

“I know,” she said, shaking her head sadly. “I know. It’s just so strange. A person goes to the nightmares to confront their fears. Surely she has done that by now. She is not a child and she knows the truth of our realms, knows the purpose of it. I just don’t understand how this is happening.”

 

“You gotta talk to the boss Loosh.”

 

“I know,” she nodded, knowing regardless of his feelings, she had to speak to him, whatever the consequences may be. “I know.”

 

 

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

 

Morpheus could hear Lucienne calling for him the moment he and Matthew returned to the Dreaming. He would have gone to her immediately if he hadn’t been interrupted by a visitor.

 

“Brother. It is me, Despair. I stand in my gallery, holding your sigil. I want to come to your realm.”

 

He granted her access and met her in the gallery, Matthew waiting in the doorway. She was slumped on the floor, just in front of her frame, showing she had no real interest in going further. Her eyes were closed, and she had a wistful, dreamy look on her face. The pleasantness of that was undermined by the way she lazily scraped her fishhook back and forth across her neck, wound opening and crossing behind it.

 

“I greet you sister. This is an unexpected visit. It has been a very long time since you came to my realm.”

 

“Brother.” Her eyes opened to look up at him, smile gone. She got straight to the point, ignoring his niceties. “I’ve come for what’s mine.”

 

Dream frowned at her. “There is nothing of yours here my sister.”

 

Her smile returned but it was cruel. 

 

“But there is,” she whispered. “I can smell her. Her despair, it’s so delicious.” Her hand waved off to her left, indicating her prize’ direction, eyes closing again in pleasure at the anguish. “She has been so close for so long now, so so long. So so close. Holding on to her promise. I could have taken her before but now…”

 

Despair opened her eyes and she was almost joyous in her demand. “Now she has wholly tipped to me. She has lost all hope. Now she is mine, and I want her.”

 

Dream head tilted, eyes closed, listening to his realm. The sounds of the dreamers ranged from absolute enraptured pleasure to the deepest terror but for one to be lost so in such deep despair that his sister should wish to take them to her realm as if they belonged there meant the Dreaming had failed in one of it’s most primary functions.

 

He kept listening, certain his sister was incorrect, as such despair would echo across the land and he-

 

Shocked, he found her. He opened his eyes, his horror clear in his face.

 

Despite his obvious upset, Despair continued her mumbling rambling. “Beautiful, isn’t it. That light within her puttering out again and again. She is no ordinary human. Anyone else would succumbed months ago. Oh such a…glorious torment,” she sighed with wanting. “Such wonderful heartache. I have tried to pull her to me but she’s stuck here. Give her to me. She’s mine.”

 

“You cannot have her.”

 

Her attention snapped back to him as she glared.

 

“She is mine, you must-”

 

“I claim her,” he interrupted, surprising her and, in truth, himself with his sudden decision.

 

“By the laws-” she hissed but he interrupted her again, more firmly this time and with infinitely more consequence as the words formed an instant bond.

 

“I, Dream of the Endless, claim Alyssa Holloway.”

 

Despair’s hand clenched in anger. “She doesn’t belong to you Dream. She shouldn’t be yours.”

 

“Nevertheless, I claim her,” he replied, then tried to placate at his sister’s glare. “I am sorry sister but, short of Death, she cannot be taken by another now.”

 

“You…” Despair struggled to her feet, hands going to the picture frame, keen to leave now she had been deprived. “You’ll be regretting this brother.”

 

“Nevertheless,” he repeated as she left. He made sure her portal was fully closed before he turned and left the gallery, ignoring Matthew’s calls completely, going straight to the nightmare realm.

 

 

Notes:

Feedback loved and adored xxx

Chapter 18: Consequences

Summary:

Morpheus goes to the Nightmare realm

 

Chapter 18 -

Consequences

 

 

“Disperse.”

 

The order resounded.

 

The ravaging nightmares quickly drew away, revealing her.

 

Alyssa was naked. Loosely curled up on the floor but unmoving. Eyes open but unseeing. Hands clasped together as if she had been at prayer. 

 

Perhaps she had been. Her prayers had gone unanswered though.

 

Because of his folly, she was enduring this torment. He would not allow it a moment more.

 

Dream strode forward quickly, creating the softest of blankets to wrap around her. Carefully he lifted her, cradling her close. She didn’t move, didn’t acknowledge what was happening to her at all. Perhaps she couldn’t.

 

Sand swirled, the darkness retreated and he stepped into the heart of Fiddler’s Green. She had always loved it here. He gently laid her down in the soft grass, keeping her curled up in his arms. 

 

He concentrated, making the air warmer, anything to return some heat to her frigid skin. She still didn’t move.

 

“I am… sorry.” Useless, inadequate words but he had to say them, even though he wasn’t certain she could hear him. She was so lifeless in his arms.

 

“Gault.”

 

He summoned the dream and a moment later she flittered down from the sky. Horrified at her friend’s state, she knelt down and reached a shaking hand to touch the frozen skin of her cheek.

 

“Take her,” Morpheus ordered and, with infinite care, he handed Alyssa over to the dream making sure the blanket stayed high and warming. “Stay with her until she wakes.”

 

As he stood, Ally’s eyes tracked him. Finally a sign of life in her but he could not stand to be in her gaze, blank though it was. 

 

Quickly he returned to the palace where Lucienne and Matthew were waiting for him.

 

“My Lord, where -?” 

 

“She is with Gault in Fiddler’s Green.”

 

“Is she alright?” The librarian continued.

 

“In time… perhaps she will be. She is different now, her mind is not like a human’s anymore. She is forever changed.”

 

“Sir…”

 

He looked utterly lost, an expression that she had seen but once, when he had returned from his captivity only to find his realm destroyed.

 

“You tried to tell me Lucienne and I would not listen. I was so certain what I was doing was right. I …apologise.”

 

Surprised though she was at his utterance, she shook her head at the apology, wanting to speak words of comfort and understanding but he turned his attention to the raven.

 

“Matthew, go to the Waking World. Watch over Alyssa. My sister may yet seek to take her prize.”

 

“Boss…” Matthew tried to reach him but he wouldn’t hear it.

 

“We must keep her safe. Go,” he ordered, dismissing them then both.

 

 

 

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

 

In the deepest part of the Nightmare realm, a figure looked over the place Alyssa had been. There, on the floor, was the tiniest of gems. It was minuscule, the size of a baby’s fingernail but it was strong, stronger than any diamond and the clarity of it was perfection. 

 

It was the manifestation of a promise, forged in pain and terror. It had fallen from Alyssa’s hand not long before Morpheus had arrived, then overlooked in his rush to take her from the dark.

 

The nightmare held it up and even in the low light, the gem gleamed magnificently.

 

And slowly, a smile began to spread across Little Candle’s face.

 

 

Notes:

Feedback welcome and adored 😁

Chapter 19: Fractured

Summary:

There is something fundamentally broken in the Dreaming

Notes:

Just a short one but more to come!

 

Chapter 19 -

Fractured

 

 

As she returned to the Library, Lucienne found some of the palace staff waiting for her, nervously stood near the door. 

 

“Lucienne,” Nuala greeted with a nod. “There is disturbance. Do you know what is going on?”

 

The librarian explained, as gently as she could, what had happened. Nuala put a comforting hand on Tamaris’ shoulder, knowing he had been close to the human.

 

Then they all felt the shift. The palace itself began to elongate, the highest turrets rising up, pushing higher and higher into the sky. 

 

‘What a mess,’ Lucienne thought, understanding that this change in structure was her Lord hiding away. She knew she would find him on his throne, lost in his dark thoughts, but the room itself would be in the highest spire, away from everyone and everything. 

 

If she even could find him. The corridor to the chamber would be a maze, another line of defence against disturbance.

 

“We’ll prepare for the flooding,” Guillemot said, crossing his arms, annoyed that their master had been brought low again by a woman.

 

They all looked to the window expecting to see the dark clouds gathering but this time there was no storm. Instead the sky was endlessly grey and bleak. 

 

“Hey Loosh?” Mervyn called. He came to join the group, cradling pieces of broken glass in his twig fingers. Offering the shards, he said, “You seen this?”

 

“What is it Mervyn?” she replied impatiently, not in the mood for his usual complaints.

 

“Well, I was in the green house and one of the panes cracked. I had spares to hand so I replaced it. Then that one broke too. Then the one next to it shattered. Then all the others cracked.”

 

Lucienne looked back at the window. Every pane of glass had a crack in it. At her order, the others checked. As far as they could tell, every single window in the entire palace was fractured. Something was fundamentally broken.

 

“What do we do?” the others asked, reconvening in front of Lucienne’s desk.

 

The librarian stood on a chair, examining her window, running her finger down the crack. It was like she could feel the heartbreak.

 

“Time,” she said after a long moment, because she simply had no other advice. “We give it time.”

 

 

Notes:

I was reminded recently that Morpheus moves his castle higher when he’s unhappy and wants to be alone so I just had to put that in.

Feedback welcome, loved and adored!

Thank you for all the yummy kudos everyone ❤️

Chapter 20: Resistance

Summary:

Alyssa runs away and, in his own way, so does Morpheus

 

Chapter 20 -

 

Resistance 

 

 

In hearing of her return to Fiddler’s Green, and that Lord Morpheus himself had brought her there, many of the dream folk looked for Alyssa in passing, assuming everything would go back to normal. Every day Abel would stand a while at the gate, waiting for a sign of her. They would not find one. 

 

She stayed far away from the castle, away from the houses and lakes and rivers. She would walk the boundaries between the dream and nightmare realms, having been banned from the latter, finding all the desolate, empty places, eventually settling to spend her nights on the frigid, lonely mountain. It was a strange place. An exhilaration and spectacle of nature but with the edge of danger, with its dizzying heights, sliding slopes and deep crevices.

 

She sat near the summit, isolating herself, night after night. She fled from any who tried to speak to her, including Hop and Calk. 

 

Lucienne heard the observations in dismay. Matthew’s report from the Waking World only added to her worry.

 

“It’s bad Lucienne. It’s like she’s a robot, just going through the motions,” he said. “She gets up, does her work, looks after her sister but… she doesn’t smile, she barely talks, hardly eats. I think she only sleeps because she’s absolutely exhausted. And her friends ask her if she’s ok and she all like “I’m just a bit under the weather” and they buy it! It’s all messed up!”

 

Lucienne sighed heavily. She wouldn’t let her friend down again but she knew speaking with Lord Morpheus was going to be difficult. 

 

She looked up at the extended turrets. 

 

Very difficult.

 

 

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

Morpheus had been sat on his throne, lost in thought when Lucienne came to disturb him. He had craved solitude but she had been able to reach him. He wouldn’t admit it, even to himself, but perhaps he needed to see a friend and so unconsciously allowed her entry.

 

“My Lord,” she began. “I’m sorry to intrude but we have a problem.”

 

“What is it Lucienne?” 

 

He would not allow his emotions to affect his ability to do his duty. Not again.

 

“I’m sorry sir, but it’s Alyssa.”

 

Alarmed, Dream sat up straighter. “She has returned to the dreams has she not? I have ensured that she never need to face a nightmare again.”

 

“Yes but… she’s running away sir. We can’t understand it.”

 

“Is she using her powers? I have detected no change.”

 

“No sir, not beyond her ability to leave her dream. There has been no change to the sun.”

 

He looked relieved at that but the frown stayed on his face. 

 

“If I may sir? Perhaps if you spoke with her?” Lucienne suggested gently. “Explain everything? Maybe that will help?”

 

Dream took a long time to respond. “No, my presence will only cause her pain. I am the cause of her despair. I highly doubt she would wish to spend even a moment with me.”

 

“But sir this wasn’t your fault-”

 

“Then whose? You are mistaken to defend me in this matter Lucienne.” Decided, he continued. “No, it is better you explain. When she sleeps, I will send her to you.”

 

Morpheus could see she was unhappy with this answer as she clasped her hands behind her back, but she accepted his order. “Very well sir.”

 

She turned to leave and he almost called after her, almost ordered his librarian to ask Alyssa for forgiveness. But he held his tongue, pride and shame refusing to allow it.

 

 

 

Notes:

I love Morpheus and Lucienne’s relationship.

Feedback adored!

Chapter 21: Found

Summary:

Alyssa returns to the library

 

Note: Flashback in italics

Notes:

Trigger warning- vague mention of suicide

 

Chapter 21 -

 

Found

 

 

After another long, exhausting day, Alyssa had been sorting out the household bills and checking their budget when she had fallen asleep at her desk. She felt herself travel to the Dreaming, as she always did now, through the colossal gates and out towards the plains. Only this time she didn’t reach the glassy field. She felt herself get pulled, almost yanked, away and drawn toward the palace. She tried to fight it but it was useless and she found herself in the library.

 

“No…” Ally whispered to herself. “…please no…”

 

Panicked she tried to find an exit, despite knowing how easy it was to get lost and confused in the endless maze of bookcases. She followed another row and turned, finding who she wanted to avoid the most, calmly waiting for her.

 

“Hello Ally,” said Lucienne.

 

Immediately, she tried to back away.  “I… I can’t be here.”

 

“Alyssa please.”

 

“I… I have to go.” 

 

She said it in a hushed whisper, anything to avoid drawing more attention to herself. She turn only to find the way back blocked. Frantically, she tried again to find the exit only to realise she was boxed in.

 

She sagged against the books. “Please Lucienne, I have to go. I have to. I don’t want you-”

 

“Ally, calm down,” the librarian implored, saddened to see the tears of her friend’s face as she moved closer.

 

“Please,” she begged, edging away. “Please!”

 

“Alyssa,” Lucienne finally got close enough to place a gentle hand on her shoulder. “It’s alright.”

 

Ally stared at her for a long time. She didn’t relax but eventually allowed herself to be led to a chair. 

 

“You have to let me go.” She slowly raised her head to warn, “He’ll punished you if you don’t.”

 

Lucienne shook het head sadly, “No, he won’t-”

 

“I heard the dreams. You mustn’t risk it.”

 

And, haltingly, Ally explained why.

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

The night after Alyssa learned of her powers, sleep was a long time coming despite the tiredness from the day.

 

Ally had been so scared; frightened of what she had been told and shown and of the connection she had felt in the Dreaming and what it could lead too. She had faith in her promise though, and in Morpheus, and that his plan would work. 

 

When she finally drifted off, the Dreaming was strange. The land didn’t seem wholly formed. It was like being in 2D instead of 3. Given how rarely she dreamt, Ally tried to accept it as normal but everything was off kilter and detached. From then on her dreams were always like this.

 

Then there was the nightmares. Aspects of fear would come to her, testing to see how she would react.

 

They started working together, seeing what terrified her the most, pushing her to confront them and gauging her reaction.

 

One night, they started to swarm her, and just for a moment, Ally had been tempted to reach out, to call to the sun, to have a glimmer of light and warmth. She immediately pulled that wish back in, furiously disappointed with herself. 

 

Alyssa concentrated, hands clasped together, repeating over and over in a mantra, “I will not use my power. I will not use my power.”

 

The nightmares listened. They showed her destruction, lost of control, and a burnt out world. A nightmare that wore her face, smiled at her, just smiled, as everything around them turned to ash. They would make scenario after scenario of torturous reasons why she would trigger herself, focusing on pain, abandonment, anger, rejection, ridicule and disappointment.

 

Months passed and Ally began to feel herself change. Her mind began to steel itself, mentally forged into something else. Physically though she knew she was withdrawing, loosing weight and becoming weak but still she decided this was better, no matter the consequences to herself, better she be like this than a destroyer.

 

Her friends noticed her decline but in the busyness of life, her reassurances where accepted at face value and slowly she drifted away from them.

 

In rare respite, she would still dream, even their bizarre fashion was a comfort until she heard the voices. 

 

She found the edges of her dream. Ally was firm with herself. She wouldn’t leave but she thought it wouldn’t be so bad to listen, thinking maybe she would hear a familiar voice.

 

“No, you must come away!”

 

She didn’t recognise the first speaker but she did know the sound of the second. It was Calk’s high, chittering voice. It was sad and imploring.

 

“I understand but you heard the order. If Lord Morpheus finds you here you’ll be unmade!”

 

Ally listened closer, hardly able to comprehend what she was hearing as Calk tittered back.

 

“Yes we know,” said another voice. “But you heard what Pinwheel said too. And I don’t want to get punished either. This is the way it has to be.”

 

Calk replied sharply but was immediately rebuffed.

 

“Fine! You want to die? On your own head be it! Don’t say I didn’t warn you! The moment you go anywhere near Alyssa, he’ll punish you and that will be that!” 

 

The first voice spoke again, voice hard and mocking. “Maybe if you did, it would be a lesson to everyone else,” they said with a sneer. “Finally put an end to this nonsense.”

 

She could hear Hop now, trying to calm Calk with soothing sounds. 

 

Horrified Ally back away. She felt like she had punched in the stomach. She returned to the centre of her dream as something with her began to give way. When the nightmares came, she welcomed them.

 

Xxxxxxx

 

“I heard them Lucienne. I heard them. I know it’s true.” Ally said, voice hard but she was still trembling, so scared for her friend. “You have to let me go. You need to just leave me alone.”

 

The librarian sighed sadly but calmly tried to explain. “What happened to you… it’s a terrible mistake.”

 

Ally shook her head, not believing her, eyes darting around to look again for an escape, but Lucienne knelt down in front of her, getting into her eye line, seeking her whole attention.

 

“This was never supposed to happen. You were supposed to dream normally, peacefully. It’s all just a awful, awful mistake.” 

 

Lucienne carefully explained further about her master’s order and it’s misinterpretation by the dreams and her own negligence. “And the nightmares-”

 

“The nightmares,” Ally cut in “… help.”

 

Incredulous, she replied, “Help?! They were torturing you!”

 

“But they kept me straight,” Ally countered firmly. “I didn’t use my powers, you see? It worked. I have to keep my promise.”

 

“But Alyssa, what they did to you? What we allowed to happen to you? It is a violation of the highest order. It goes against everything the Dreaming is. I am sorry.” She took her friend’s hand. “We are sorry.”

 

Ally could hear and see her sincerity. A part of her desperately wanted to believe her but she was still so scared. “What about my powers? Don’t you see? Nothing has changed! I just can’t risk it. I don’t want anyone to get hurt because of me.” She looked down at their joined hands. “I’m different now. I know I am. Maybe it’s just better if-”

 

“If what?” Lucienne pressed. “We let Lady Despair take you? Or Lady Death? We will not allow it Ally.” 

 

The librarian stood, tugging her jacket straight, feeling now perhaps action was better than words. “Now. You will stay here. With me. Every time you sleep you will come to the library. I will keep an eye on you and I will help you. You’ll see. This is better.”

 

Determined, Lucienne decided that they would prove it, night after night. She told Alyssa as such and all the others later. 

 

“But what about her powers?” Guillemot demanded, echoing Ally’s own fears. “She could destroy the realm!”

 

Lucienne gave him a very stern look over her glasses. “In the depths of pure despair, she didn’t use them to escape. At this point I think she has proven she has a measure of control. She is doing all she can to protect the Dreaming. Even now she cannot dream peacefully because she fears for the resident’s safety.”

 

“But,” she continued, forestalling his further protest. “should the need arise, the necessary action will still be undertaken.”

 

It had been Alyssa eventual compromise. They hadn’t chance to discuss it before but Lucienne let slip her master’s responsibility and his grim task of “removing” threats. It broke her heart that Ally looked so relieved at that.

 

“It is better she be here, safe and cared for, and, should the worst happen, she reach a swift end by Lord Morpheus’ hand. Better that than let her subject herself to such suffering again,” Lucienne continued, though she had an inkling that the young woman would take matters into her own hands before she endangered anyone else, the Dream King included. 

 

But still Lucienne cling to hope and duty as she made sure to make her point clear to the others. 

 

“We will not fail her. Not again,” she ordered. “She is worth the risk.”

 

 

Notes:

Wow this one was hard to write! Rewrite after rewrite and I’m still not happy but got to leave it alone and keep moving otherwise this story will never get told.

 

Thank you for all the comments and kudos! As always feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 22: A Moment

Summary:

Alyssa tries to regain some happiness and sense of safety in the Dreaming

Notes:

Apologies for the delay! I was on holiday 😎 lol it rained ☔️🌧️ and signal was rubbish 😫

 

Chapter 22 -

 

A Moment

 

Hope was a dangerous thing. 

 

Every night Alyssa entered the Dreaming she felt it grow a little. She tried hard to temper it. 

 

It took time, months in fact, to rid herself of the panic and fear she would feel, especially when she would have a member of the dream folk visit her in the library. But eventually she relaxed enough, allowed herself to be receptive enough, to enjoy it, to savour it, just it case the worst should happen. 

 

She decided it was like living with a blood clot. If she was to die, she would not fight it. She accepted her fate and began to live a little more in the moment. 

 

Once her anxiety subsided, it was a task made easier when Abel and Goldie would come, bringing buttery shortcakes with them, Cain stomping along, demanding attention too. 

 

Or when Hop and Calk would visit, carrying the prettiest of flowers or most colourful of leaves. They would curl up together and rest in her lap, like they used to when she was a child.

 

Tamaris would fetch her tea of every flavour and Millie the most delicious cakes. Gault would stay and talk with her a while, telling her about the dreamers and their gentle wishes and how she had inspired them.

 

Mervyn would shuffle in, tell her what he was up to, complain about something, make her laugh, and shuffle out again. And dear Lucienne would find the best books and most engaging stories.

 

The world felt small but precious and cherished.

 

Time passed and she hadn’t forgotten her would-be executioner but it still came as a shock to find him standing next to Lucienne’s desk one night.

 

Morpheus had felt Alyssa enter the Dreaming and had been about to leave, only she had been too quick in her arrival, directing herself to the library, manifesting only a few paces away.

 

It felt like the entire Dreaming came to a standstill. Ally stared at him, lips parting in surprise, but he spared her the slightest of glances before turning away. 

 

He acknowledged Lucienne with a small head tilt, and quickly left.

 

A million thoughts crashed through Ally’s mind. She didn’t know what to feel. Despite her want of preparedness, a spike of fear had shot through her but it melted away almost immediately, leaving only loss at his retreating form.

 

It was the first time she had seen him properly since he sent her away and it felt like being banished all over again.

 

The time in between was hazy. She had gone from cold terror and black hopelessness to the comforting warmth of an embrace and the soft light of the sun. At one point she even thought she had imagined him, that it was all part of another nightmare trying to trick her into thinking she had a rescuer. 

 

Despite all the conflicting emotions, she had wanted to see him, talk to him but now it seemed she never would again unless she were to die.

 

As she watched him disappear, she couldn’t help the tears filled her eyes but she curled inward, not letting them fall.

 

Lucienne was quick to come to her side. “I’m sor-”

 

“Please,” Ally begged, unable to bare it. “No more. No more apologies.” She took deep breath, trying valiantly to regain her equilibrium. “I understand. I know can’t… I know I shouldn’t expect anything different. It just…”

 

Hurts. She didn’t need to say it aloud.

 

“Does… does he hate me?” she asked in a whisper, feeling childish but needing to know.

 

“No!” Lucienne in an almost shout. “No, why would you think such a thing?”

 

“For being such a danger to the Dreaming? For all the upset I’ve caused?” She looked at her friend in earnest, wanting the truth. “Lucienne, please be honest. He can’t even look at me.”

 

Lucienne looked at her over the rim of her glasses, sincerity in every syllable. “He does not hate you. He-… Lord Morpheus-”

 

The librarian wished she could say more but she could not, not without betraying confidences or giving half truths and empty assurances. She faltered and her friend noticed. She backed away, quick now to change the subject, brushing off any further fussing or words, muttering “It doesn’t matter” as she moved, busying with the latest literature stacked on the desk.

 

Lucienne’s eyes went to the window, the panes still cracked, the sky beyond still a disillusioned, miserable grey with not sign of rainfall, the water trapped within a barrier of hopelessness.

 

The relationship between the human and the Endless had been so unexpected and now it was so broken. 

 

She had no idea of how to fix them.

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

High, in the tallest tower, tucked away into folded space, Morpheus walked the corridor, mind eerily calm. In that glance he had taken in the changes in Alyssa; the weight she had lost was slowly coming back, her eyes were bright though she looked tired, she had even cut her hair.

 

She was still so beautiful. The gentle warmth she exuded was still there, hadn’t been permanently extinguished as he had feared, had returned, even in her startled state. His heart still ached even at the smallest sight of her. 

 

But he could not stand the thought of her hatred because of course she would despise him for what he allowed to happen. 

 

He was quick to return to his throne room and his solitude and his purpose.

 

The Dreaming. His realm. The dreams and nightmares. His work. His function. It was his very being, the reason for his existence. 

 

Morpheus clung to it. He still felt somewhat adrift in his own mind, in the calmness of his wretched emotions, but his function centred him, allowed him to stand steadfast where his shame, pride and failure threatened to pull him down.

 

He would endure because he had no other choice. Anything else could lead to another failure and that he could never allow. 

Not again.

 

 

 

Notes:

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 23: Desperation

Summary:

Morpheus decides to assist someone desperately asking for help

Notes:

The Baku are definitely “worth the google”. They are Japanese supernatural beings that eat nightmares. The idea is if you have a bad dream you ask them to come and devour it but you have to be careful because they also eat hopes and desires too.
I decided Hachiman would be in charge of them because he is supposed to be the protector of Japan and it’s people so that could include their dreams.
Omoikane is a god of wisdom so I figured he might have been able to help advise on the repeating problem.

 

Chapter 23 -

 

Desperation 

 

 

The Baku had been running rampant again. They had minor magic, were little more than pests, with only the potential to do damage in the Waking world or space in between, but occasionally they would gather at the boundaries of the Dreaming and try to consume the nightmares held within. 

 

Morpheus could feel them, like an itch between the toes. Aggravated by the disruption to his thoughts he had taken action quickly to secure them and send them away. Lucienne had been late in coming to inform him as she cautiously entered the throne room.

 

They discussed the matter, repeating the same conversation they had had for years.

 

“But sir one of these days-”

 

“They will never be able to breach our boarders Lucienne. Even in my absence, they could not cross the boundary.”

 

She gave a small huff of discontent. “Shall we send word to Lord Hachiman?”

 

“Yes,” Morpheus agreed and called to his raven who was quick to arrive. “Matthew. You will speak to Lord Hachiman about his Baku.”

 

“Again?!” Matthew complained but the Dream Lord’s reprimanding glare cut him short and he immediately took flight to carry out his task. “You got it, Boss.”

 

“Perhaps if we spoke to Lord Omoikane? He may have some guidance in this?” It was not the first time she had suggested this either.

 

“I do not need assistance Lucienne,” he replied firmly, dismissing her as he went to return to his throne.

 

“Very good My Lord,” she said, the smallest touch of sarcasm in her voice. 

 

She turned and walked away, mind going back to the time of his absence. He was right that, even when he was in his captivity, the barrier had held against the Baku, but she had heard them, scratching at the edges of the realm. 

 

While they had not come often, and usually only in ones and twos, their desire to devour not only nightmares but also dreams meant she was scared of them, regardless of the solid protection. 

 

She resisted urge to mutter to herself in frustration. She reached the doorway just as a figure suddenly appeared in front of her, causing her to stop sharply in shock.

 

Clinging to the door, Alyssa took two steps towards her, swayed and promptly collapsed to the floor.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

“My Lord!”

 

Lucienne’s first shout had Morpheus turning from where he had been ascending the stairs. Her second had him rushing to her side.

 

“Sir, please!” she cried in distress.

 

Alyssa was there on the floor, her head cradled in the librarian’s lap. She was dress in a hospital gown, bandages and gauze were taped on her arms and neck. She was beyond pale, her eyes glassy and pained but her hands gripped at Lucienne’s arms desperately.

 

“Please… please! My sis- my sister… Annie… is she alright?” Her voice was a harsh whisper of distress and pain as she forced out the words. 

 

Morpheus came next to them, crouching down beside her. 

 

“Please…” she begged, agony filled tears began to flow down her face. “Annie…”

 

The Dream Lord’s gaze went to the ceiling. The sky that filled it began to change as he peered into Annabella Holloway’s dream.

 

“She sleeps peacefully,” he reassured. “She dreams of boats and typewriters.”

 

Above them they could see Annie happily swaying with the tilting vessel as she tapped away at the letters.

 

Alyssa gave a broken sound of relief then her gaze went back to Morpheus.

 

“And Chris? He- is he-?”

 

The sky changed again to show her brother curled up, crying, rocking backwards and forwards, utterly alone.

 

“He is in the nightmare realm. His guilt has driven him there.” Morpheus’ expression darkened. “As it should.”

 

“No! No please!” Ally’s hand shot out to clutch at his coat. “Hel- help him!”

 

“It’s what he deserves,” Dream replied coldly.

 

“It wasn’t him.” She tried to shake her head but the movement caused pain to shoot through her. Still she tried to continue as began to overtake her. “He didn’t-… it wasn’t him... ‘S not his fault…”

 

“Then who?” he demanded but she couldn’t speak anymore. “What happened?”

 

Her body went rigid in her agony. Her physical form started to pull her from her sleep.

 

“Wait for me,” Morpheus said. “I will find you in the Waking World.” She faded away though eyes fixed on him, pleading. He tried to keep her from disappearing but it was useless. “I’m coming.”

Notes:

Very pleased I was able to finished so I can get back to my weekly updates 😁

Thank you for all the lovely comments and kudos. They really got me motivated to get this chapter done ❤️

Feedback always loved and adored x

Chapter 24: A Little Miracle

Summary:

Morpheus finds Alyssa in the Waking World

 

Chapter 24  

 

A Little Miracle

In the deepest shadows, Morpheus stepped out of the swirling sand and into the post surgery ward.

 

As he went towards Alyssa’s bed, the light caught against his pale skin and the nurse, Cho, saw movement out of the corner of her eye. 

 

“Hey!” She called in a hushed voice, trying not to disturb her patient’s sleep. “Sorry mate but it’s way after visiting hours. You can’t be in here.”

 

Morpheus ignored the woman and went to Alyssa’s bedside. 

 

As he lent over her, his foot knocked against the call button that had fallen to the floor. 

 

Ally’s agony filled eyes landed on him. Her mouth worked, shock apparent even in her extreme discomfort.

 

“Real...” she whispered, astonished. “You’re real…” Her hands clenched and unclenched, reaching out to him. 

 

Nurse Cho was surprised herself, as the visitor allowed her patient to reach out and touch his face. He looked so cold and aloof but they stared at each other with such intensity.

 

Ally hiccuped a breath, the steady stream of tears still flowing as the small movement aggravated her injuries, the pain raging through her. 

 

Morpheus’ attention flickered to the nurse. “She is in pain.”

 

Cho shook herself, breaking free of the charming intimate sight. “Come on now, you- oh my god!” 

 

She rushed to the IV stand. The machine’s electric front panel was dark and the fluid was still. “The IV is off! I- I don’t-”

 

She fussed with the machine and it’s cables and switches, muttering to herself. Ally’s gave a stuttering moan and the nurse tried to sooth her. 

 

“I’m so sorry sweetheart. The battery on this unit has failed and no one plugged the damn thing in,” she said as she pushed another button on the now relit screen. The morphine began to flow back through. 

 

“There we go. I’m so sorry love. This should help you feel more comfortable.” She smile kindly, “Get you off into the arms of Morpheus in no time.”

 

The man in question frowned at her, but quickly turned his attention back to Ally. “What happened to her?”

 

Cho fussed over her patient who blinked hazily at them as she replied, “I’m sorry. I don’t know the ins and outs of it myself. I’ve only just come on duty. And I can’t tell you much without permission. Proper permission I mean.” She indicated Ally in way that said consent wasn’t happening any time soon. “And you're going to have to go and come back in the morning.”

 

Alyssa made a sound, almost a “don’t”, her fingers grasping at the material of his coat, but she was too weak to go further, the drugs working quickly and effectively. Still she fought the pull, desperately trying to keep her eyes on him. 

 

“Listen,” Cho relented, wanting to at least assuage his worries. “She’s had a serious incident and the injuries to her chest and stomach are going to take a while to heal. But she’s doing really well, recovering brilliantly from the surgery.”

 

“And I can tell you one thing for sure,” she continued, with a soft smile. “She’s a strong one, your girl.” The nurse nodded towards the nurses station. “Everyone said she really fought hard and held on. She’s a really tough cookie.”

Cho used the word the others had. “Our little miracle,” she said.

 

It wasn’t a miracle. Morpheus could feel it. And now, being so close, he could even see it, deep in her eyes. The power there. That strangeness about her. It was evolving, changing in response to the danger.

 

And he now knew it’s origin.

 

Alyssa’s eyes lids started to droop, pain finally receding again, allowing her to relax and the nurse straightened up. 

 

“Right, I’m going to get the cart and taken her obs. You need to be gone before I get back,” she warned.

 

Dream gave a small nod to indicate he was listening but he kept his focus on Ally. She slipped away into unconsciousness and, with the nurse turned away, he reached into his pocket for his bag of sand. He sprinkled a little over her. Should the pain and drugs allow, she would dream peacefully in the soft, plush meadow he made for her all those years ago.

 

He stood, vanishing from human sight and walk out of the ward and down the long corridors. On his way out, he spotted Alyssa’s brother Christian sleeping in a waiting room. He still had blood under his fingernails from where he’d been unable to wash it all off. He looked a disheveled mess, slumped in the uncomfortable plastic chair with his coat pulled over him. 

 

Alyssa had said it wasn’t Chris’ fault. She had wanted him to help her brother. Even in all that pain, her first thought had been of her siblings.

 

Morpheus decided he would honour her wishes. He reached into his bag again and blew the sand. Chris’ nightmare faded away, pushing him into a dream, leaving him in the warmth of his friend’s company, surrounded by kind words and gentle laughter.

 

Morpheus moved on. He kept walking, away from the hospital, still bustling despite the late hour, going to the nearby park where Matthew was waiting for him. 

 

“Is she ok?” asked the raven, having been informed of the situation by Lucienne.

 

“I believe she will be, in time.”

 

While he wasn’t expecting Morpheus to be singing and dancing, Matthew was surprised by just how deep his master’s frown was. 

 

“What’s the matter?” he pressed.

 

“There is starlight in her eyes.”

 

“Erm,” Matthew cleared his throat, “getting kinda poetic there Boss, or…”

 

“No,” Morpheus explained. “She has been touched by a cosmic entity.”

 

“Wow. Ok so what does that mean?”

 

“It means,” he replied, looking up at sky, “that I need to see my mother.”

 

 

Notes:

So before anyone jumps up and down at me about this, I, unfortunately, have had to spend a lot of time in hospital. Either for myself or my family so this chapter is based on those experiences.

Cho is named after the amazing nurse that looked after my brother one time and I thought I’d honour her 😁

Yes people can get onto wards after visiting times and yes IV machines can run out of battery when they are not plugged in but it is very rare. I think the biggest issue is Chris sleeping in the waiting room 😂

Apologies if this chapter doesn’t give any definitive answers as to what happened to Ally but all in good time my friends 😉

Chapter 25: Intermission

Summary:

Decisions are made

 

Chapter 25

 

Intermission 

 

 

Even as Rebecca yelled at him, volume increasing to an embarrassingly uncomfortable level, Christian felt proud. She started to hurled abuse at him as he walked away, then screamed obscenities until the manager of the coffee shop had to intervene, but he kept moving. He almost faltered when she shouted the insults about his sisters, disgusting and ableist, but he persevered and got out without replying.

 

He didn’t let his temper get the better of him. He knew Ally would be proud and impressed. Having three nights of good sleep helped, despite everything that had happened and all the stress. It had helped keep his mind clear and he’d been able to look at the situation properly.

 

Would he regret ending things with Rebecca? Perhaps, if she had taken the break up differently or had acknowledged in some way that she had acted poorly. But he could not forget the way she had reacted when he had called her after being released from the police station. 

 

She had complained. Not offered sympathy or comfort or any kind of support. 

 

He had shouted at her after the shock had worn off, and almost ended up back in custody. But he had wrestled his temper down and hung up on her and taken the first taxi he could get to the hospital to see his sisters. It was the right decision and this was the right decision now.

 

She had made him feel normal. But, he realised now, it was the wrong normal, forced and stifling. 

 

He took a deep breath before getting into his car and heading back to the hospital. He had time before he had to go to work. He hoped Ally would be properly awake for him to tell her the news.

 

Xxxxxxxxxxx

 

Alyssa stretched carefully, the stitches on her torso pulling in odd directions, making her breath catch but the pain was manageable. 

 

Her doctor had already been in to see her, smiling broadly at the chart and at the wound recovery, remarking again in how fortunate and strong Ally must be given the blood loss and how well she was recovering already.

 

The doctor handed off the chart to Cho who grinned at Ally, pleased with this latest review.

 

“Doing so well girl,” she complimented.

 

“Thank you,” Alyssa replied, accepting her help to sit up more comfortably.

 

“You’ll be out of here in no time. Won’t be long before your up for painting the town red. Then that dishy man of yours can take you dancing,” she said with a wink.

 

Ally frowned at her, confused.

 

Cho quickly tried to backpedal, “Sorry, I just assumed.”

 

“No no, it’s ok,” Ally reassured with a little smile and wave of her hand. “You must mean my brother.”

 

Cho’s answering smile was crooked. “No I don’t mean Chris. That’s his name right?”

 

Ally nodded so the nurse continued, “I mean the other guy? He stopped by really late, three nights ago I think? I haven’t seen him since. Has he been back?”

 

Stunned, Alyssa shook her head in disbelief. “I… I wasn’t entirely sure that had happened.”

 

Cho laughed, “Your boy be cute, but ain’t that cute. If you going to dream someone up, put a bit more meat on his bones next time yeah?”

 

She laughed awkwardly in reply, thinking hard.

“Just to check, you ok with him visiting yeah?” A sudden urge of protection rose.

 

Ally nodded. “Yeah no problem. He’s a… friend.”

 

”Well just makes sure he comes in at visiting times OK?” With a nod, Cho left her to it.

Alyssa carefully let out a long breath. She was still amazed their encounter had been real. The last few night’s dreams had been hazy for her, pleasantly spent in her sun soaked meadow, but tonight she hoped she would have enough strength to dream properly and she hoped she would be have a visitor, otherwise she might have to consider going to find him.

 

Xxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

After failing again to reach his mother, Morpheus had returned to work. He had kept an eye on the Holloway siblings as promised, nudging their dreams into calm and gentle settings, letting peace and comfort flow over them.

 

Tonight as he felt Alyssa enter the Dreaming, he could tell her mind was clearer. She had lost the hazy, seeping effects of the painkillers and was dreaming normally.

 

His thoughts returned to when he had been in the hospital; the way her fingers had lingered on his skin, the way her eyes had lit up, how her lips had parted in surprise. She had been glad to see him, if only for her sibling’s sake.

 

With that hope in his heart, Morpheus decided that he would go to her tonight and he would speak to her.

 

Come what may.

 

Notes:

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 26: The Park

Summary:

Morpheus and Alyssa have a quiet conversation

 

Chapter 26

 

The Park

 

 

An autumn breeze flowed through the wooded park, making the beautiful reds and oranges of the leaves sway and dance.

 

The coolness made Ally shiver but she did not look to the sun, even unconsciously. Instead she wrapped her arms a little tighter around herself, glad she had fallen asleep with her dressing gown on for its extra comfort. 

 

In front of her a young Chris and Annie played on a set of swings, laughing happily. Her father stood to one side, reading a newspaper.

 

Carefully she lowered herself down onto the bench seat to watch. A short while later Morpheus came to join her.  

 

He stood next to her for a moment, taking in the scene.

 

Like it had been for most of her life, she was dreaming but not part of the it. And it was more than a dream.

 

“Why do you linger here?” he asked, tasting sadness on the wind. “This is not a happy memory.”

 

“It’s not an unhappy memory,” she replied carefully, quietly like she might frighten him off. “It’s just complicated is all.”

 

He frowned down at her and she explained, “Mum and Vi were arguing at home so Dad brought us here. Chris kicked up a fuss when it was time to leave and Dad got really angry at him but… he didn’t have to bring us here.” 

 

She shrugged, thinking of the small kindness, though the movement made her wince in discomfort. “It was nice while it lasted.”

 

Ally then glanced about at the trees. “And it’s lovely to be back in this park. They tore it down to build more houses. It’s nice to see it again so thank you for that.”

 

Her quiet gratitude had been a genuine olive branch, a reminder of her appreciation, but to Morpheus it was a knife in the heart.

 

“Do not thank me.” 

 

His tone was so sharp that she looked up in shock. He looked like a thunder cloud and, having never had his anger directed at her, a shock of fear ran through her. He saw it and softened.

 

“It is my function. Do not…  thank me.”

 

He sounded so wretched and immediately she wanted to sooth him. “Morpheus…-”

 

Again he thought words were so insufficient and his own pride restrained his tongue, not allowing him to grovel, but he offered quietly, “I do not ask for your forgiveness. But ask anything of me and it is yours.”

 

Alyssa was silent for a long time, returning to watch her family, thinking it over as she had done since her talk with Cho, confirming she hadn’t hallucinated his visit in the Waking World.

 

“Can…” she started hesitantly. “Can things go back to the way they were? Can we- I know it’s not fair, that… I know I’m still a danger to you but I… I considered you a friend. Can we be friends again?”

 

“Friends…” Morpheus echoed, in disbelief. He wanted to scoff, like that came anywhere near the depth of his feelings.

 

Ally felt so ashamed of this, manipulating his guilt like this, and a not so small part of her hoped he would refuse, knowing it could just make everything worse. “I know it sounds so childish-” 

 

“Yes.”

 

He interruption cut her to the quick, tears beginning to form as she already felt so emotionally raw, until he repeated himself, confirming his agreement.

 

“Yes. Your… friendship is important to me.”

 

Ally let out a small wet laugh in relief, even as she trembled in conflicting emotions.

 

“You would forgive me so easily?” he asked, that small hope in his chest feeling heavy with the weight of his own remorse.

 

Again, Alyssa took her time before carefully leaning forward to turn to look up at him properly, answering with her own question, “Did you mean to do it? Send me to the nightmares?”

 

“No.”

 

She made a gesture in a ‘well there you go then’ manner as she said, “Intentions matter. People say they don’t but… it matters to me. You didn’t intend for that… and it worked out in the end. I think I’ve learnt some control.”

 

Stunned at her words and dismissive tone, Morpheus replied, “When I was held captive my only thought was vengeance, revenge against those who had wronged me.” 

 

She didn’t reply and he shook his head at her. “You should not forgive me so quickly.”

 

“Why?” she asked.

 

“Because I would let you.”

 

She gave him that sad, lopsided smile of hers and he felt his heart ache. He would give her anything, riches and power and entire worlds but all she asked for was his companionship. Knowing her as he did though, he realised he shouldn’t have been surprised. She had always been too kind.

 

Ally eased back into her seat, tensing as she did, a little gasp escaping her.

 

“Are you in pain?”

 

The lack of haze in her dream meant her pain relief was at a minimum but now a sharpness crept into it, revealing a undercurrent of affliction.

 

“I… I’m OK.” Again she was dismissive, but it was clear he wasn’t buying it. Morpheus loomed over her, assessing. She tried to smile up at him, joking but a touch hopeful. “I don’t suppose you have a magical pain killer?”

 

He stepped closer and reached out his hand, concentrating. As he had expected, he was unsuccessful. He looked away. He had already tried once before to help her without her permission. 

 

“Your form is resistant to my attempts,” he said, dropping his hand. She had changed too much.

 

“My form?” Ally asked, considering his words. She lifted her hand up, studying herself, the little plasters covering the cuts on her palm. She knew she was different but couldn’t explain how. “So it might work on… regular people.”

 

It was clear to Morpheus that she was still very scared of what was happening to her, despite her struggling facade of calm to accept it.

 

“I,” he started, thinking of how to comfort her. He had been reluctant to tell her, until he had something more concrete to say. “…may have a new route of enquiry in regards to your powers. I will continue to investigate.”

 

“Really?” She stared up at him, eyes warm with gratitude, but she snapped her mouth shut to avoid thanking him at his pointed look. She nodded, a little smile forming regardless. 

 

Answering one began to tug at his lips but their moment was interrupted by a caw from Matthew as his approached. The raven came to rest on Dream’s shoulder.

 

“Hey Ally,” he greeted.

 

Her charmed smile spread across her face. “Hello Matthew.”

 

“Sorry to interrupt Boss,” he said, feeling really guilty he had had to do so, especially after seeing how well they were getting on, “but Lucienne sent me to tell you. There a Lord Oni- no, wait, Omki- no, that’s not right either.”

 

“Lord Omoikane,” Morpheus corrected.

 

“Yeah him. She says he wants to talk to you.”

 

“Very well,” the Endless replied, with reluctance.

 

“Duty calls,” Ally said with a gentle grin, trying to stomp down her own disappointment.

 

“Indeed. Matthew, stay with Alyssa until she awakes,”’ he ordered before giving a small head bow and leaving them, letting the bird flutter down to the bench’s arm next to her.

 

Unbeknownst to Alyssa, Morpheus kept watch, using Matthew’s vision as his own. His ever loyal raven didn’t mind, assuming that his boss was feeling overprotective of their friend.

 

“So…” Matthew started awkwardly, “that looked good.”

 

Ally smiled back, but it was brittle.

 

“Now things can go back to normal, right?” he asked, trying to be encouraging.

 

“Oh Matthew…” she signed heavily, fingers reaching out to pet his feathers as she learned to do so all those years ago. She felt her emotional strength start to break under the stain. Other people’s kindness had always made her feel vulnerable in a way. “Things will never be the same again.”

 

She explained to him, carefully and with tears forming, what had happened to her in the Waking and what now was to happen with her family.

 

The raven felt the edge Morpheus’ anger through their connection and he was quick to intercede. “Why don’t you tell the Boss? I bet he could help you with this. Nudge the right people maybe? And he-”

 

“No,” she stopped him with a quiet whisper. “I can’t.”

 

“But why?” Matthew hated that he sounded like a petulant child but he knew if he didn’t get the right answer, Morpheus was about to walk out of his meeting with the apologising and well meaning god.

 

“I…” Alyssa struggled to explain her guilt. “It’s bad enough I am forcing him to be around me. I can’t ask for more. I just can’t.”

 

The anger receded from Matthew’s senses and the raven took a deep breath. “Ally, it’ll be alright, promise.”

 

“No,” she said quietly. “But it is what it is.”

 

They stayed there in quiet company for the rest of the night, unaware that elsewhere Morpheus was making plans.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

I’m so sorry I’m being cryptic 😉 Alyssa’s injuries will be explained next chapter. Would anyone like to guess (and probably have a better idea than my plot of) what happened?

Also any suggestions for what Ally’s job could be? I’ve got some ideas but it has to be labour intensive but not needing a qualification

Chapter 27: A Friend

Summary:

Alyssa meets a new friend

Notes:

A nice long one to finally answer all the questions but I will say there’s still more than meets the eye going on here 😉😅

A HUGE shoutout and thank you to BellaIsAsleep and SolSpellDiggory for their help in choosing Ally’s job. I went with a mixture of both their suggestions. Thanks guys!!!

 

 

Chapter 27

 

A New Friend

 

 

“My friend!” Hob Gadling greeted, coming to his feet, voice carrying over the hubbub of the pub. He held out his hand in welcome. “This is a surprise but a welcome one to be sure. I did not think I would see you again so soon.”

 

Morpheus smiled back, accepting and shaking his friend’s hand. “Hello.”

 

“You know, you are far too early for our appointment. Or are you making up for lost time?” Hob grinned. He gestured the chair opposite him, encouraging the Dream King to sit.

 

“I need your help.”

 

Hob’s eyebrows shot up in shock. He never thought he’d hear those words from his mysterious acquaintance. After blinking away his surprise, he smiled warmly, “Anything.”

 

Morpheus nodded, pleased he had agreed. “I have another… friend.”

 

Hob’s eyebrows went up again. “Goodness! I feel I should be jealous but I think I’ll just be happy for you instead. Who is he?”

 

“She,” Dream clarified. “She is the one in need of the assistance. She will not accept it from me.”

 

He frowned, concern. “Alright, this sounds like a long story.”

 

Morpheus’ head tilted, considering. “I suppose it is a complicated one. I am indebted to her but she will not accept my help which she greatly needs. She has a misplaced sense of guilt and so she will not ask.”

 

“And you really want to help her?”

 

“Yes. Will you assist me in this?”

 

“Sure,” Hob agreed, nodding with understanding, then said with a laugh, “Though it almost seems like you’re trying to set me up.”

 

Morpheus faltered. He hadn’t considered that. He turned the idea over in his mind, that perhaps that would be best, that perhaps they might be very happy together, that perhaps that was meant to be.

 

His surprise must have shown on his face, along with just a touch of sadness and upsetting jealousy but Hob didn’t register all of it, already waving off the idea. 

 

“Sorry but I’ve got a girlfriend. I’m not about to give up on that any time soon,” he said with a grin, hand waving towards the bar where the woman in question was serving.

 

A detached relief ran through the Dream King, though he was left melancholy at the very idea of Alyssa having a relationship with anyone. He knew he had no real claim to her but it still hurt.

 

Oblivious to his friend’s internal strife, Hob continued, voice dropping to conspiratorial whisper, “So! Is she is immortal? Like me?” 

 

“No,” Morpheus replied, giving what answers he could. Death chose not to come for Hob. Alyssa’s life had become her choice, unconsciously or not. “I think now… she is like me.”

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

The caseworker, Mrs Penrose, was a kind but strict woman. She had seen too much in her career but it made her effective and unfortunately made her comments and recommendations all the more reasonable.

 

Ally glanced at her brother sat by her bedside. He wasn’t taking it well but at least he wasn’t shouting.

 

“You understand then,” the caseworker continued, “that it’s the best thing for Annie?”

 

Chris shook his head. “But she’s always been with us! She’s my twin. I can’t just let- argh!”

 

He cut himself off, frustrated and anguished. He stood and turned away, trying so hard to keep his temper.

 

Ally kept a close eye on him from her bed, ready with a calming word but he seemed to be settling himself. She looked back to Mrs Penrose.

 

“Is there really no other option?” she asked.

 

The case worker flicked back through her notes. “You have primary care Miss Holloway. But you are also the one she harmed. And I’m given to understand you have no other family?”

 

Ally shook her head.

 

“And Mr Holloway is not an option? To take full responsibility for her?”

 

The siblings shared a long look before Ally confirmed. “No.”

 

“Then you understand,” she reiterated.

 

Alyssa looked away, trying not to cry. The case worker saw this and softened.

 

“I am sorry. You have done a marvellous job. It’s clear that Annie has a happy and loving life with you. But you cannot ignore the facts. She has been able to stay with you before because she had no history of violence towards others.” Mrs Penrose gestured the note her lap and tried to probed deeper. 

 

“The… incident itself?” she asked gently, mindful of who she was speaking to. “Do you have any idea what may have triggered it?”

 

Ally kept herself still, knowing this had been coming. “I have no idea,” she lied.

 

She didn’t look at Chris at all as her mind went back.

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

It had been a normal day. Ally had been pleased she had finished all her work at the office. Like always, it had been a long day spent in front of a computer screen having her ear bent by complaining customers, but, like always, she was grateful for it. It helped to pay the bills and kept the roof over their heads, a roof she was happy to return to.

 

She thanked Annie’s carer Beatrice and let her go after being updated on the day, said hello to her sister before going to start the dinner. 10 minutes later Chris came home. 

 

“Hey Sises,” he greeted, using his nicknames for the two women. 

 

They settled in for a rare quiet evening in together, a good one as they were able to get Annie to eat without too much fuss, before switching in the TV for her.

 

With their sister preoccupied, Chris spoke to Ally as he brought through the last of the dirty dishes. 

 

“You seem to be doing better,” he said, putting the bowls down on her pile of washing up.

 

Alyssa blinked at him, “What do you mean?”

 

“You know…” Christian shrugged, “not so down in the dumps.”

 

Ally nodded slowly. They barely saw each other any more between their work schedules, Annie’s care and his relationship with Rebecca. It was and wasn’t surprising he had noticed some changes. Still it had been so hard but she hadn’t wanted to be a burden, or worse, a danger.

 

“Yes, I’m feeling better.”

 

“Was it boy trouble?” he teased gently. “You never said.”

 

“No,” Ally replied quietly. “Just… I was just having trouble sleeping.”

 

She knew she couldn’t exactly tell him she had suddenly developed magic powers that affected a dream realm and had been accidentally banished to the nightmares.

 

“Well I’m glad to hear you are doing ok because I wanted to talk to you about something.” 

 

He looked decided but hesitant. He continued at Ally’s nod.

 

“I want to move out.”

 

“Oh,” she managed to reply. 

 

“As you know, Rebecca and I have been together for a while now and we just think it’s time for the next step. I talked about her moving in here but she thinks it’s better we have our own space. She says I can move in with her for now.”

 

He sounded excited, steamrolling his words, but there was an air of dismissiveness that set Ally’s teeth on  edge.

 

“I know Annie still needs me on Saturdays and Thursday evenings when your at work so we’ll have to figure something out for the long run. You can’t expect me to live here forever,” he continued. “And I’ve moved out before. You’ll get used to me not being here.”

 

Ally thought his tone was so odd, like he had prepared this little speech in advance. She wouldn’t know until much, much later that these were all Rebecca’s words.

 

She nodded after a long moment. “Yes,” she agreed quietly, looking down at the soap bubbles in front of her. “We’ll have to look into other options.”

 

She couldn’t, wouldn’t, hold him back. Alyssa had agreed to take on Annie. She was her responsibility. But it still hurt so badly to be left behind like this. She spotted her sister behind him, silently going backwards and forwards at the doorway, head still turned towards the television. She felt a rush of love though and sympathy that her sister was also going to be upset by this change. Ally knew she would have to be strong for her.

 

“Great!” Christian smiled. “Listen, I’m going to head out and let her know you’re on board. You can handle things here tonight can’t you?”

 

Ally nodded slightly as he walked away, going to change his clothes and looking for his keys.

 

She went back to the washing up but noticed Annie had stopped moving and was staring at her. Ally wondered how much she had heard and understood.

 

“It’ll be ok love,” she said in a soothing voice but she was saying to herself too. “Everything will be fine.”

 

Annie didn’t agree. 

 

She started fidgeting, pinching at herself. Ally quickly dried off her hands to go to her as her sister started to dig at her scalp.

 

“It’ll be alright love,” Ally said, carefully attempting to ease her fingers down, using the techniques she knew, trying to guide Annie into her room where it was quiet and dim.

 

“See you later!” Chris called as he shut the door behind him.

 

The noise of the door slam was the trigger. 

 

Annie grabbed her sister and pushed her hard into the small display case they had their trinkets in. 

 

Glass shattered as Ally hit one of the doors, crying out as her head hit against the wooden frame, making her vision spotty and taking her balance. She slumped down and forward.  

 

Annie continued her assault, pulling the small collectibles off the shelves and smashing them on the floor before tugging the whole piece of furniture forward.

 

She yanked hard on the swinging broken frame and the case overbalanced.

 

As Alyssa managed to turn over, the wood and glass came crashing down on top of her, slicing into her skin.

 

A large shard ruptured an artery and blood began to pour.

 

Annie staggered away, stepping on the broken ceramics, tumbling down to clutch at her feet. 

 

Alyssa’s world was blurry, pain filled and shocked. She could see Annie’s form to her left and she tried to reach out but she was pinned and too disoriented to move properly and push the case off her.

 

Chris came barrelling back in, alerted by the calamitous noice. For a moment he was stunned to stillness, that such destruction had happened so quickly then Ally let out a anguished gasp and he rushed to her side. 

 

He shoved the case away, horrified to see blood already pooling around her and shards sticking out from her abdomen.

 

“Ally! Ally, what do I do? What do I do!” he shouted, beyond panicked. His hands fluttered over her, knowing he needed to stop the bleeding but terrified of touching her and making it worse.

 

In her haze, Ally could see the red on Annie’s feet. “…Doctor… needs a doctor…”

 

Chris struggled to hear her, to comprehend but he managed, fumbling, scrambling to find his phone.

 

Ally could hear him talking to someone as she drifted. The shock was settling in and she felt cold. 

 

Above her, a face appeared. It was beautiful and kind, with such a nice smile. Ally wanted to smile back but a sharp bang distracted her. 

 

Annie was slamming her hands on the floor. It was pushing small pieces of debris into her palms. Ally tried to talk, to tell her to stop but her voice stopped working. Annie stopped on her own, the pain too much and she started to cry.

 

Alyssa turned her head back to the face, to ask them for comfort her sister. She thought surely such a lovely face would be willing to help but it has gone.

 

Ally’s mind floated but she could still hear Christian. He was still shouting and she wanted him to stop. She lost track of Annie and then there were other people. Hands poked and prodded her, asked her name and shone lights in her eyes. 

 

She couldn’t answer properly, her tongue felt too big for her mouth, everything was parched. 

 

Christian. He was still arguing and she could hear him starting to fight. A policeman identified himself and the yelling grew louder.

 

She herself rallied, fighting hard to stay conscious, to speak, to keep her eyes open, but the seeping darkness prevailed, and she faded away.

 

Xxxxxxxxxx

 

She could feel Chris’ eyes on her. He had asked her this too. 

 

The change in Annie been sudden but it wasn’t difficult to identify the cause of the upset. The shock came from the severity of the reaction.

 

Still, Ally couldn’t stand the idea of him shouldering that guilt or that he would think she blamed him.

 

“It was my fault,” he said, stunning her.

 

She gaped at him but he just frowned back at her.

 

“Don’t pretend otherwise,” he said before turning his attention to the case worker. “I told them I was moving out. Annie freaked out. It’s my fault. I didn’t do it properly. I wasn’t there.”

 

“Chris…” Ally reached out a hand to him and he took it. “This wasn’t your fault.”

 

“She’s my sister too,” he argued. “I know what she’s like. It’s my responsibility too.”

 

“But we couldn’t have known she’d react like this,” she replied.

 

Mrs Penrose nodded. “And there in lies the problem. She’ll need longer for assessment and this hospital is ready to discharge her and needs her bed. She cannot go home. Not until we are satisfied this won’t happen again.”

 

Chris slumped back into his chair. “So she has to go to Hilltop?” 

 

The care home. The “Hell home”. 

 

Ally looked sharply at the caseworker. “She has been there twice and been assaulted twice. You can understand our reluctance.”

 

Mrs Penrose sighed heavily. “Yes. I won’t pretend that facility doesn’t have it’s issues  but it is the only one locally that isn’t private. Otherwise we’re looking at sending her well outside the county.”

 

“I… I could get another job?” Ally offered. “Get her into Riverside?”

 

Chris shook his head. “How? From your hospital bed? We’ve looked at this before Ally. Even with us both working every hour God gave us, we can’t afford it.”

 

“Riverside is an excellent facility with dedicated staff but it comes with the price tag to go with it,” Mrs Penrose agreed. “So you have your choice. Hilltop or I’ll see about Fieldings or the Doorvale centre.”

 

Ally’s hand clutched at Chris’. Send Annie to a subpar care home or let her go miles and miles away from everyone and everything she ever knew.

 

“Excuse me?”

 

A voice piped up and everyone turned to see who had interrupted them.

 

“Hello,” said Hob. “I’m looking for Alyssa Holloway.”

 

Ally frowned at him. “That’s me. I’m sorry but we’re in the middle of something. Is it important?”

 

Hob looked at the trio, eyes bouncing from unhappy face to unhappy face.

 

“Um yeah sorry. It’s just a mutual friend got in touch. He thought I might be able to help you out. My name’s Robert Gadling by the way.”

 

He reached out and shook everyone’s hand, including Mrs Penrose, most going along with him out of confusion rather than welcome.

 

“I’m sorry, I don’t know what you mean,” Ally kept her frown. There was something about this man, something different. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it. “A mutual friend?”

 

Hob grinned. “He’s about so tall,” he said, indicating the height, “kinda pasty, always dressed in black, hair looks like he’s been dragged through a hedge backwards…?”

 

Ally’s eyes went wide. “You can’t mean-Morpheus? You know Morpheus?”

 

“Yep!”

 

“Sis, what the hell is this?” Chris demanded.

 

“I- I don’t-” she stammered in reply.

 

“Look, can we have a moment alone? I’ll be quick. Promise,” Hob reassured.

 

Mrs Penrose protested, moving to stand, “Really, this is quite-”

 

“I know,” he replied, turning on a touch of charm as he helped her rise. “I’m being terribly rude. I am very sorry. We’ll just be two minutes.”

 

The caseworker flustered under his attention. “Well I’m very busy…”

 

“Two minutes.” His gaze went to Christian. “Please.”

 

“Alyssa?” Her brother clearly wasn’t happy but Ally nodded anyway.

 

“It’s ok,” she reassured, her curiosity rising by the second. It was like the air of him tasted different. She couldn’t really explain it.

 

With great reluctance, Chris stepped away, joining the flushed pink case worker, making room for the intruder who took his seat at Ally’s bedside.

 

“He’s pleasantly protective.” His easy was grin infectious.

 

“You know Morpheus. Really.” She still couldn’t believe it. 

 

“Yes and he asked me to help you and your family get the best care possible. Whatever you need. Anything. Everything. The very best.”

 

“But the cost-!” 

 

“Don’t worry about that,” he interrupted. “I’ve got a few pennies to rub together, tucked away here and there for a rainy day.”

 

“I-I can’t accept it,” she shook her head. The world was spinning to fast. It felt like her reality was changing with every heart beat. But this man could solve all her problems and had been sent by someone, up until recently she wasn’t entirely sure hadn’t been a figment of her imagination. “It’s a family matter-”

 

“He said you’d say that. Said you’d argue too.” His smile and eyes went soft. “He also said you deserve everything. Everything. And more.”

 

Ally’s eyes misted. It was a lifeline but…

 

“And you probably do, to put up with him,” Hob went on with a happy laugh. “And to be honest, personally, having someone else to talk to about him and how ridiculous he is? That’s priceless. Worth every penny.”

 

“I can’t-”

 

“Please,” he said, softly. “Let me help you. I think… it’s the right thing to do.

He’s never asked anything of me, other than the odd conversation over the… well, years but I want to do this for him. For you.”

 

He held his hand out again, this time with genuine feeling. “Please. I can help. Just let me. Let us.”

 

Ally looked down at the offered hand. She thought hard before taking it. 

 

“Alright,” she whispered. “But we’ll pay you back. Somehow. We’ll pay you-”

 

“No,” Hob interrupted. “No strings. No requirements. Just acceptance.” He laughed, teasing. “He was right. He said you’d argue and resist. You are just like he said.”

 

Ally couldn’t help her blush, letting out her own breathy laugh. 

 

Tonight, when she slept, Alyssa was determined a certain Dream Lord was going to get an earful.

 

 

Notes:

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 28: Bridges

Summary:

Morpheus and Alyssa continue to take steps back to each other

 

Chapter 28

 

Bridges

 

 

Morpheus blinked at her in surprise. Alyssa stood in front of him, shakily, having entered the Dreaming and come straight to him. She looked cautiously happy to see him but it was clear she was in pain. 

 

“Alyssa,” he said, scolding gently. They went from his throne room to the library in a heartbeat. 

 

As the sand settled, it was her turn to be surprised. It was her favourite little nook. She wondered if he knew that. 

 

“Sit,” he commanded and she did as bid, though with a slightly petulant little smile. She curled into her chair, carefully pulling the soft blanket around her. 

 

“You are in pain,” he said. “Do your doctors not tend to your needs?”

 

“I’m alright,” she reassured, but he obviously did not agree. “They’re just trying to wean me off the good stuff, get me comfortable on a lower dose.”

 

“It is clearly not working. You will awaken and seek assistance.”

 

“No, please,” she insisted, forestalling him. “Morpheus I really want to talk to you.”

 

She didn’t know how those words made his heart sing. He stilled his hand from where he had been raising it, ready to send her away.

 

“Speak then,” he muttered softly. “But be concise.”

 

Even in his happiness of her company, he did not like to see her hurting.

 

“I met an interesting man today,” Alyssa said, watching him closely. His feigning innocence wasn’t quite believable.

 

“Oh?”

 

“Yes by the name of Robert Gadling. Says he’s a friend of yours.”

 

“I will admit to knowing him,” he replied, a playful coolness to his words. “And am pleased he found you in short order.”

 

Ally sighed at him. “You didn’t need to do that.” She looked away, embarrassed and a touch ashamed. “Matthew shouldn’t have said anything.”

 

“You are correct,” Morpheus’ tone went stern. “You should have informed me. And Mathew did not betray your confidence. I am the Dreaming. This is my realm. There are no secrets to be kept from me.”

 

Chastised but still wanting him to understand, “But you didn’t have to -”

 

“‘Tis a simple thing, Alyssa. And Hob Gadling made merry at my expense. He seems to have taken the role of being your white knight to heart. It pleases him greatly to do so.”

 

“He’s doing it as a favour for you,” she said with a frown, not letting him change the subject. 

 

“Yes,” he admitted after a moment of eye contact. 

 

She gave a little huff, with a wince. “Then can I thank you for it? It’s saved us so much worry, saved Annie. I’ll find a way to repay-”

 

“No. And no thanks are needed.” His soft words continued as he stepped closer, looming over her. “I will wake you now. You will have your doctors attend you.”

 

There was no hiding her pain but her eyes turned sad. “I… I was hoping we could talk  some more.”

 

“Twice now you have found me,” he muttered, crouching down to her level. “That is not something usually done with such ease. Once you have had proper rest and medication, I am certain will we speak again at length. And in the meantime, let Hob Gadling have his fill of playing the hero.”

 

He stood again, with a soft smile. “You may do that as a favour to me.”

 

She gave answering smile, tight though it was with discomfort and at his movement, she returned to the Waking World, ready to find her call button.

 

Morpheus nodded to himself in satisfaction, his heart finally lightened though mind turning over her still developing powers.

His mother had yet to answers his attempts at contact but he was reluctant to leave the Dreaming, for many reasons but not least of all in case Alyssa needed him.

 

 

Notes:

Sorry this is late and short but I’m a Godmother!!! Yippee!!!

Chapter 29: Steps

Summary:

Things start to settle down for Alyssa

 

Chapter 29:

 

Steps

 

 

 

Matthew had been right about things returning to some semblance of normality for Alyssa in the Dreaming.

 

She went to the library, tucking herself away into her favourite chair, warm and safe and healing. The endless corridors and warm wood of the bookshelves had felt even more wondrous on her return. And even more like home.

 

Lucienne, of course, welcomed her with open arms, and ensured she was as comfortable as possible.

 

On the second night Morpheus stopped by, put out that she hadn’t sought him as he had assumed. 

 

She shyly looked up at him as he appeared next to her, blank expression on his face.

 

“You did not come to me,” he said tonelessly but there was still an obvious sulky petulance.

 

She was quick to apologise and awkwardly said, “I’m sorry I- I just didn’t want to disturb you. I know you’re busy.”

 

He was just as quick to forgive her. “No matter. Are your doctors doing their duty to you now?”

 

“Yes I’m fine,” she reassured. 

 

She still touched by his continuing concern despite not wanting to be fussed over, but the tentative promise of friendship renewed filled her with a warming glow.

 

And from then on it became the norm. 

 

She would arrive in the Dreaming and he would join the others in visiting her, exchanging pleasantries and news. 

 

It was clearly such a comfort to her and he enjoyed being part of that balm. 

 

Rarely, even more so than before, she would dream fully, mostly returning to the pool but now, with her form still fragile, she would lay at the water’s rocky edge, bottom half submerged but supported by the smooth stones, and just watch the sky. Hours would pass for her in quiet serenity and she seemed to absorb it, the peace helping to keep herself balanced and calm. 

 

On those nights he would leave her be, though he was still observe her from a distance and take pleasure in her contentment.

 

In the Waking World however, any normalcy felt hollow.

 

With so many of Alyssa’s worries alleviated thanks to Hob’s “rainy day” money, her steady recovery continued, responding well to the rest and reduced stress, but it was so strange for her.

 

Without Annie, the house felt cold and quiet.

 

Christian had cleaned up all the mess but the missing cabinet seemed to symbolise their situation, the negative space emphasising that what was gone was something big and full of memory.

 

Without work to distract her and Chris either working or spending time with Annie to make sure she was settling in, Ally felt adrift.

 

Hob became a hero again for her, visiting her and seeing to her every need, even offering a maid service to keep on top of chores. 

 

In the meantime, he encouraged her to look to her education, see if she could at least start reading any material she might have, to restart the process of her business degree.

 

Alyssa thought hard about it. This was a good opportunity that perhaps wouldn’t come again. 

 

Hob beamed when she cautiously agreed.

 

“I have some friends in the university in the city. It’s a bit different from your local tech but it might help you get a bit more support. They don’t always offer a modular curriculum but…” He shrugged his shoulders, giving her his boyish grin. “I think we can make it work. They do fully remote now too. That way you can do it a bit at a time if you need to, all from the comfort of home.”

 

Ally, sat up in her bed, cushioned by all the spare pillows, stared down at the university prospectus in her lap. It was a wish she had started to abandon.

 

“Morpheus said you enjoyed playing hero,” she said, somewhat breathlessly. “Here you are, doing it again.”

 

Hob laughed heartily. “Aww,” he teased, “And I just gave up my suit of armour to the historical society.”

 

She gave an answering amazed laugh. 

 

Notes:

I’m so sorry guys! Sick children and trying to write do not mix. I’m so tired! 😴🥱

But developments on the way! The next chapter is one I wrote the bones of ages ago and I’m very excited to share it when it’s finished.

As always, feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 30: Part 3: Revelation. Death

Summary:

A chance encounter at the Holloway home

Part 3 - Revelation 

 

 

Chapter 30

 Death

 

 

Alyssa still couldn’t believe they hadn’t met before.

 

Matthew, who she had recognised immediately, hopped into the kitchen through the window at her urging and Hob just stared and stared.

 

“So you’ve really never met?” she asked, confirming after she greeted the raven joyfully and formally introduced them.

 

“No I think I would have remembered,” Hob’s mouth finally closing enough to form the words.

 

“Yeah I’m pretty memorable,” Matthew replied with a shrug. “You doing good kid?”

 

Ally smiled at him, fingers reaching to pet him. “Yes, much better, thank you.”

 

Matthew hummed and they both turned their attention back to still stunned Hob. “And you? Doing ok there buddy?”

 

Hob shook his head. “It’s just not fair. Centuries… centuries and I get nothing until recently and even then it’s tidbits. You know it all, don’t you?”

 

Ally shook her head back at him, “No, not at all I’m sure but…,” she shrugged, “I know I’m different. I remember when others don’t.”

 

She looked at Matthew, eyes soft. “Messes with your head a bit but I basically grew up there as well as here …it’s hard to explain.”

 

She tried as hard as she could to describe her childhood spent in the company of Dreams and Matthew piped up when they talked about the different areas of the Dreaming. Hob listened with rapt attention, echoing her awe and wonder.

 

“I’m sure we could ask Morpheus to give you a proper tour sometime,” she added.

 

Hob went quiet as he thought it over, eventually says, “You know what? No. I think I’ve got enough going on in the… what did you call it?” He confirmed with Matthew’s nod, “The Waking? Yeah, that’s enough for me right now.”

 

Ally laughed, “Fair enough.”

 

“If you ever change your mind, I’ll give you the tour myself,” Matthew offered.

 

“Thanks,” Hob replied with a smile. He was still reeling from his new reality and now he had an open invite.

 

Ally’s own smile grew distracted. Her attention was pulled away to the garden. It was like a faint humming or a catching of the light. Curious, she carefully got up. “Be right back,” she muttered.

 

“You ok?” Hob asked.

 

“Fine, I won’t be a minute.” She just had to check.

 

“Hey,” Hob grinned at Matthew as she walked away, “say “Nevermore.”” 

 

“Fuck you,” the raven replied with a laugh.

 

 

Xxxx

 

 

A few minutes earlier, Morpheus had arrived at the Holloway house. He stood under the rose covered arch at the rear gate. He watched through the window as Ally, Matthew and Hob laughed and talked.

 

He had been busy and so it had been a few days since he had seen her. Then while he had had business in the Waking World, it had seemed like a convenient time to visit Alyssa again here. He’d sent Matthew ahead and he had been so please when she had recognised the raven instantly as many beings, mortal and immortal alike struggled to do so.

 

It felt so good to see her looking so cheerful and animated. He had watched through Matthew’s eyes as well as she had described his realm with such wonder and love.

 

The warmth of her words spread to him and a small smile teased the edge of his mouth.

 

So lost his enjoyment of her enthusiastic accounts that he almost didn’t sense his sister’s approach.

 

Death came up next to him, briefly diverted by the pretty pink blossoms of the arch, before they acknowledged each other with a smile.

 

“How are you my sister?” he deadpanned in greeting, remembering a previous meeting and scolding. “How have you been keeping?”

 

“Very funny,” she replied, quickly poking her tongue out at him. “But, since you ask, I am very… curious. I saw Despair. She told me something interesting. That my brother has claimed a human.”

 

He looked away at that, ashamed at the circumstances that led to it, eyes drawn back to the woman in question.

 

“And seems to have fallen for her.”

 

To have it said so blatantly, he was quick to deny it, especially knowing the consequences. “I will not love another mortal.”

 

“But you do!” she insisted. “I’m not Desire but even I can tell. And…” Death studied Ally with a penetrating gave, “she’s not quite a mortal. Not any more anyway. She’s… different.” 

 

In truth, she couldn’t quite put her finger on it.

 

“She is extraordinary,” he replied.

 

Morpheus shared a long look with his sister. She could see his turmoil but it was also so obvious he was infatuated.

 

“She tried to defend my realm when she had no ability to do so,” he continued. “She forgives when she should seek vengeance. She lives in the Dreaming as she does in the Waking. She respects and even has assisted the other Dreamers. She seems to understand my responsibilities and has put the realm ahead of her own life and comfort. There are times when I feel like …she was made for me.”

 

He had every thought ever had at his disposal and he did not think he could find the words to truly do her justice. 

 

Death’s eyes went wide. It was clear this woman was not just a passing fancy. “That’s… huge, Dream. You really care for her, don’t you?”

 

“I…” He could not hide the truth from her any longer. “I do. Though I fear mother’s influence.”

 

“Mother? Really?”

 

“Yes. Alyssa has starlight in her eyes. I believe her evolving powers originate with our mother but I having trouble contacting her. I am reluctant to leave the Dream for extended periods at present. I have been having issues with some unruly Baku and reaching Mother’s domain can be arduous and time consuming.”

 

He loathed to admit it but with the Baku becoming more and more organised, he was becoming concerned that Lucienne’s fears had merit.

 

“I could give you a lift,” she said with a shrug.

 

“Pardon?” 

 

“I have business there.” She gave a sad smile. “As much as Mum kicks up a fuss, even a few from her realm have to be collected from time to time. I’ll take you with me when I go.”

 

“Are you certain?”

 

“Yeah I-” Death cut off when the back door opened and Alyssa stepped out.

 

Eyes squinting, she looked about, searching, then her face lit up as she spotted Morpheus. 

 

“Hey,” she said as she walked towards him. “I thought I’d -oh!” 

 

Ally interrupted herself as spotted the other woman, mostly hidden by the Dream Lord. 

 

“Hello,” she greeted warmly but she faltered, feeling recognition but unable to place it. “Wait, wait, I know you…”

 

“Hello again,” Death smiled.

 

Ally frowned not understanding, “You…were you there when…?”

 

Death glanced at her brother before unsubtly clearing her throat.

 

Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, he introduced, “Alyssa Holloway, this is my sister.”

 

Surprised, Ally turned cautious. She wasn’t likely to forget what she had heard from Lucienne about his siblings. “Your sister? Oh, um,” Nervously she asked, “Umm, which sister are you?”

 

“I am Death.”

 

Stunned, she understood. It was like a thunder bolt. “Oh. Oh... Is that why? That’s… I didn’t think I was hurt that badly. I was really dying?”

 

“But you didn’t.”

 

“Right…” Ally swallowed down her distress and the knowledge she had come so close to her end. “Umm… nice to meet you?” 

 

She couldn’t help but sound uncertain. 

 

Death still smiled brightly at her, somewhat amused and already starting to understand her brother’s attraction. “Nice to meet you too.”

 

“I um… I always wanted to speak to you actually,” Ally said after a moment, still hesitant and shaken but determined. “A few years ago, my parents died.”

 

Both Death and Morpheus sobered and straightened, ready to defend against accusations or misplaced blame.

 

“I remember,” Death said, calmly.

 

“I-,” She couldn’t help but stumble over and stutter the words, “I-I just wanted to thank you.”

 

Both blinked in surprise simultaneously. If Ally hadn’t been concentrating so hard on getting her words out, she would have found the matching actions of siblings hilarious.

 

“You… your brother, he said you were with them, when they died. That they weren’t alone. Thank you. Thank you for that.”

 

Relieved, Death replied, “It’s my pleasure.”

 

Genuine gratitude. Eons of existence and it was still such a rare thing for Death to receive.  

 

Ally’s small smile dimmed slightly. “Are you here to um… help anyone?”

 

“No,” Death said, soothing her fears. “Just spotted my brother in passing is all.”

 

“Oh. Um would you like a cup of tea?”

 

Charmed, Death’s smile grew wide. “Sorry, another time. I need to get going.”

 

“Okay. Are you coming in? Tea?” she offered Morpheus.

 

“No. I must depart as well,” he replied, trying not to look too pleased a her badly hidden disappointment. “I came to collect Matthew. However he may stay for a while if he so desires. He can make his own way back to the Dreaming.”

 

“Ok I’ll tell him.”

 

“We will leave you now,” he said. He wondered it strange how difficult he found to do so. In a way he was grateful she took the first step back.

 

Alyssa nodded to Death as the personification waved. “Um, goodbye… Death.”

 

“Bye!”

 

Death kept her smile as the woman, who was still clearly somewhat discombobulated, went back into the house. 

 

“Extraordinary is the word,” she commented and the siblings shared another smile as she gathered him up in her wings.

 

Notes:

I’m back!

Well I wrote and rewrote and rewrote and rewrote and I’m still not happy but I think it’ll never be exactly what I want 😂

I actually wrote a few line for this (Morpheus calling Ally extraordinary and Ally thanking Death) when I was first writing down some ideas so its really nice to finally share this with you x

Feedback welcomed, loved and adored ❤️

Chapter 31: Mother Night

Summary:

Morpheus visits his mother

Chapter 31

 

Mother Night

 

The siblings landed with gentle ease and Morpheus acknowledging to himself this a much preferred mode of transportation but one he would not rely on. His sister left his side immediately to fulfil her duties and he wondered deeper into the realm.

 

“Dream.”

 

Night appeared to him, her large, soft form dominating the sky, her blue dress matching her skin perfectly.

 

“Hello Mother.”

 

“How unusual for you to visit.” Her tone suggested that bothered her.

 

“I know how you value your peace Mother, however I did try to contact you before I came.”

 

“Did you? Hmm.” She quickly dismissed that and he wondered if it had been deliberate to force him to visit in person. “You seem troubled, my dear.”

 

For once he was pleased she could see to the heart of the matter.

 

“I’ve come to ask you about a human, Mother,” he said.

 

“Oh, one of them,” she replied, disinterested, almost disgusted, with the lesser life form.

 

“Yes. About a woman named Alyssa Holloway.”

 

Night made a sound, clearly not recognising the name, still flippant and dismissive but he had her attention. Using his sand, he conjured Ally’s likeness to float above his palm. The golden grains moved as the little figure did, her little head tilting to look up at the cosmic entity, face breaking into a gentle smile.

 

“Ah yes, my sweet girl,” Night said with joviality. “She acknowledges me.”

 

“Acknowledges you?” Morpheus was baffled.

 

“Yes. So many have forgotten me. Do you remember? I used to have so many worshippers, beautiful temples and such wonderful offerings,” she said wistfully before she she started to complain. “Now so few care about me. Most do not even remember me.” 

 

When he didn’t respond to her want of sympathy, she continued, a touch of menace to her voice, “No matter. Everything will return to me in the end.”

 

“She acknowledges you and therefore you felt it appropriate to give a mortal supernatural powers?” he asked, incredulous.

 

“Mind your tone child,” she said cooly. “You sound like your brother when he dared to reprimand me.”

 

Morpheus blinked at the implication that Destiny was also unimpressed with their mother’s actions, but he continued on. 

 

“But you made her an Endless?” he said it carefully, knowing she would probably still react badly.

 

“No,” she replied, aggravated. “She is not an Endless. I would need your father for that,” and the curl of her lip said that would not be happening again anytime soon. 

 

Night continued, her lack of concern obvious. “I merely blessed her. She will never have her own realm, never be a function of the living as you are. At most, her powers will be but a suggestion, a minor influence and that is only if they truly develop. I only gave her a taste, planted a seed. She could have gone her whole life without it manifesting.”

 

“She has an affect on the sun in my realm. I fear the consequences for the Waking World should this power transfer,” Morpheus said.

 

To his surprise, his mother laughed, “Of course. She is favoured. My stars would respond to her. And they are reflective of her blessings, for what shows more devotion to a human than the sun that rises and sets everyday?”

 

“Devotion?”

 

“Yes I believe that is what has emerged.”

 

“That would be her aspect if she were my sibling?” 

 

“Yes. Or Duty perhaps.” Again she was so flippant and uninterested. 

 

He thought it over, how well it suited her and wondered if she was how she was  because of his mother’s influence or that she herself had manifested that aspect on her own.

 

Night’s gaze turn sharply to Dream, examining, “Why are you so concerned darling? Does she trouble you? If so she can be dealt with.”

 

Quick to keep Ally from any more of his mother’s meddling or threats, he said, “The opposite.” 

 

As it was with his sister, he did not and could not hide the truth any longer. 

 

“I am in love with her,” he confessed.

 

“Oh. Then consider her a gift,” Night bestowed as though it was nothing, and as though Alyssa had no choice in the matter. “When you have tired of her, you may return her to me. She will always have a place in my realm.”

 

Notes:

Apologies for the delay and thank you so much for the lovely kudos ❤️

Finally some answers for you 😉

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 32: The Stars that Shine

Summary:

Morpheus and Ally discuss her powers

 

Chapter 32 

 

The Stars that Shine

 

 

When Death came back to pick up her brother she was summarily ignored by their mother, as usual as she told Dream, so they left promptly, despite Night’s demands for her son to stay. Later, he would be told their mother blamed his sister wholly for stealing her son away.

 

They reappeared exactly where they had left from, under the rose arch. 

 

“So our Mother just gave her some powers? Just like that?” Death continued, as incredulous as he had been.

 

“Yes I believe so,” Morpheus replied.

 

“And of course she didn’t see a problem with that.” Death shook her head in disbelief, before tilting it. “Did she say why?”

 

“She said Alyssa acknowledges her. I’m unsure of what she meant. Our Mother mentioned times past when she had worshipers but Alyssa is not one as far as I know.”

 

The both watched as Alyssa pottered through the kitchen, her guests long gone as evening set in, making herself a hot drink. 

 

Death turned thoughtful before exclaiming, “That’s it!” She snapped her fingers, pleased to have finally put the pieces together. “That’s where I recognise her from.”

 

“Sister?” Morpheus asked, full of curiosity. 

 

“I couldn’t put my finger on it before,” she said with a smile, turning to her brother. “She’s an old soul. She’s reincarnated many times. Can’t believe I didn’t recognise her sooner.”

 

“Truly?”

 

“Yes. You may have even met her before,” she continued with a little laugh. “How funny would that be.”

 

“Hilarious I’m sure,” he said drolly.

 

Death kept her laughter, “She was a worshipper though. A priestess in Mother’s temple, but centuries ago. Trust Mum to notice.” 

 

“So Mother is remembering her from all that time ago?”

 

Death shrugged. “It’s definitely the same soul. And to be fair, she looks kinda like she did back then too.”

 

Morpheus hummed, considering.

 

They watched as Ally pulled a soft blanket around herself, bringing her hot tea with her, and let herself out the back door to settle in to her favourite garden chair. She sighed softly, gaze going to the darkening sky. 

 

It was not unlike how she behaved in the Dreaming. Simple comforts making her happy. It made the corners of Morpheus’ turn up.

 

Death saw this and smiled at him. “I’ll leave you to it. Later Dream.”

 

She patted his arm and disappeared before he could respond.

 

Shaking his head at her lack of manners, he let himself be seen and approached Ally.

 

Even the little smile she gave him made his heart soar. 

 

“Good evening Alyssa,” he replied regally. He made himself comfortable in the chair next to her.

 

Her eyes tracked him. She still found it incredible that he was truly real. Seeing him here, in the Waking World, right in front of her… she still questioned her own sanity at times. It’s was strangely easier with Matthew. Hob of course just slot into her life like he’d always been there.

 

“Hi,” she said. “I didn’t think you'd be coming back but I thought I sensed something…”

 

“So you can sensed us,” he said. “Your powers continue to grow.”

 

Immediately her smile dimmed and fear shivered through her.

 

“I bring you news.”

 

“Oh?” she said, a tiny tremor in her voice. He thought her so brave. She was obviously terrified but she kept her composure.

 

“Yes. I have information.”

 

“About where it come from?”

 

“Yes. And I have an answer as to why. What do you know of Night?” 

 

Confusion clouded her features. “Night? What do you mean?” 

 

He did his best to explain how his mother had bestowed these “gifts” to Alyssa as a whim of generosity. That there had been no malice or grand plot, it wasn’t a curse or the work of witches or demons bent on chaos or destruction. Just the irresponsibility of a powerful being. 

 

Ally sat there, stunned to silence. He watched as the information slowly sank in. Her tea went cold in her hands. 

 

“I…” she started, voice quiet and cracked. “I used to talk to the sky.”

 

He frowned, concerned for her but listening.

 

“Mum and Dad, when I was little, they would be busy with Annie or Chris, even Vi… they never really had time for… for stories or… or songs…” Ally took a deep breath. “So at night, at bed time, I would say “Goodnight Night”. Vi used to tease me.”

 

He could picture it clearly. Her parent’s attention on her siblings, her older sister jeering at her. 

 

And a young Ally, younger and smaller than when they had first met, stood at the window, eyes large with wonder at the twinkling stars, calling the words to his mother. In a house full of people, she must have felt so lonely.

 

“I didn’t mean to…” She shook her head, as if to clear it. “What does it mean? These powers. What are they?”

 

“While you are not an Endless, you are something of an echo. You may eventually have influence on others.”

 

“Influence with what? I don’t understand,” she said shaking her head.

 

“My siblings and I each represent an aspect. We are an anthropomorphic personifications. My Mother said you would be devotion.”

 

“Really?”

 

“Yes.” His eyes went kind. “It suits you. Loyalty and duty.”

 

Ally thought it over. “So that’s why I am the way I am…” She gave a sad laugh, “You’d think I’d be better at the piano.”

 

“Which shows this is not all who or what you are. You are still human Alyssa. Still your own person.”

 

Ally nodded distractedly, then asked in a small voice, “Can she take them back?” 

 

“No,” he replied, dashing her small hope. “They are a part of you now. To remove them would kill you.”

 

“I just… I don’t want to hurt anyone. The sun-”

 

“I have spoken to my Mother. You cannot affect the sun in the Waking. Your powers will never supersede her command.”

 

“Wait, really?” Her relief was palpable.

 

“The sun in my realm reacts to you because I allowed it. It was my influence, accidental though it was. And you are a favourite of my Mother. The stars are part of her and her domain. They are trying to make you happy.” 

 

He looked up, and she followed suit. 

 

“You see,” he said. “They shine brighter for you.”

 

Ally’s lips parted as she took in the twinkling lights. She stood, taking a few steps forward and she squinted a little, studying. Her head tinted as she concentrated.

 

Slowly, so slowly, childlike wonder crept over her features. She couldn’t hold back her smile.

 

“I… I can hear them…!” She turned back to Morpheus. “They’re laughing right?”

 

“Yes.”

 

She gave a small, amazed laugh herself, eyes drawn back to the playful stars. 

 

He watched her, heart aching. 

 

She still had such joy. And the way she smiled at him, wanting to share her happiness…

 

He took this feeling and placed it deep inside, next to what made him who he was. 

 

Even if she never loved him back, even if she turned from him and hated him, he would never forget this moment and his love for her.

 

 

Notes:

Wow life is kicking my ass at the moment! But I’m still trying to write whenever I get 5 minutes 😂🤣😂

Hope you guys enjoy this chapter and as always feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 33: The Importance of Education

Summary:

Learning becomes a need for Ally. And not just for her.

Notes:

Apologies for the length, more to come soon x

 

Chapter 33

 

The Importance of Education 

 

 

Alyssa threw herself into research.

 

In the Waking it was for her degree. With Hob’s assistance and support, she settled back into her learning quickly and wholeheartedly. So much of it already completed, most of the knowledge was there, but she had to finish the last remaining modules and assignments.

The education she put on hold due to her parent’s deaths now was finally starting to come to a close. She enjoyed it and felt satisfaction with every word she wrote.

 

In the Dreaming however, Ally looked for more information about Night. It was in stark difference to her other work. She found little, even with Lucienne’s help. To be mysterious seemed to be part of the cosmic entity’s very nature. 

 

Morpheus observed her. Sometimes joining her to exchange small talk, as he could tell her nothing of value about his mother, other times he would just watching her through Matthew’s eyes as he continued his work.

 

Ally seemed lighter now. She moved easier now and not just because of her healing. There is still a heavy fear but she carried it better, more comfortably.

 

There were times Morpheus found it hard to watch. He realised now that this is how it should have been but never could have, not for them to be where they were now. They both felt an unease at times. It hurt in an uncomfortable sense but it never stopped him from seeking her out or her from wanting his company.

 

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

Elsewhere, deep in the Dreaming, the twisted mind of a magic user smiled at the scene of bloody carnage. It was an odd combination of dream and nightmare, but the horror and fear were like a nectar to the him. 

 

He had revenge on the woman who spurned him. He had punished the boss who had belittled him. He had hurt the friend who had irritated him. All with his proud father looking on proudly. 

 

Though the fear that he wasn’t doing enough to prove himself to his parent was still there, the feeling only served as a motivator, unlike in the Waking World where it make him seize up in hesitation.

 

Surtif stepped forward a smiled and the dreamer beamed back at the nightmare.

 

“Good. You’re learning,” he said, encouraging, going to stand next to the father figure. “Take what you want.”

 

And the dreaming witch nodded and returned to his frenzy.

 

‘This one will do nicely,’ Surtif thought to himself. ‘Very nicely indeed.’

 

Notes:

Thank you to everyone for their amazing kudos and comments! Definitely feeling the love! ❤️ I feel truly blessed to have so many positive voices keeping me going 😘

I’ll admit I got a little distracted thanks to the second season of Good Omens. I even had to write a fic, I had so many feels! So do check out Saving You if you fancy it x

As always feedback loved and adored

Chapter 34: Something

Summary:

The Dreaming beings to warm

 

Chapter 34

 

Something

 

 

There was… something. Alyssa couldn’t put her finger on it. It was just on the edge of her senses.

 

The Dreaming was how it always had been. She looked out over it from where she sat on the palace steps. 

 

Dreamers came and went. Dreams flittered here and there. It was a normal night. 

 

The weather was pleasant with a cooling breeze, the sky blue with a few clouds.

 

Nothing was out of place but still…

 

Something.

 

She concentrated, tried to focus, to listen, to feel. Nothing.

 

But there was something.

 

She started to wonder if she was just imagining things when Morpheus appeared beside her.

 

“Hello Alyssa.”

 

Her attention was taken by him completely and she dismissed her “something”.

 

She smiled brightly at him. “Hello to you.”

 

He held out a hand to help her stand.

 

“Thank you.”

 

The briefest of touches still felt so precious. 

 

“Will you walk with me?” he asked.

 

Again that pretty smile. She nodded and was delighted when he offered his arm in gentlemanly, old fashioned gesture. 

 

Arms interlinked, they strolled around the castle’s outer and he pointed out parts of the building’s structure, telling her little stories about the architecture.

 

It wasn’t so different from how they’d acted before as they had become mostly comfortable with each other again but the way Morpheus would look at her…

 

The Dreams began to gossip. Between his regular attentions on her and the vast  improvement in the weather of the realm it was becoming obvious their Lord and master had hope.

 

The gossip spread.

 

And somewhere deep in the darker realms a winged nightmare smiled.

 

 

 

Xxxxxxxxx

 

 

Beyond the gates of the Dreaming, the nightmare Docen tutted, annoyed to have been kept waiting. 

 

He looked around again, but could still see no sign of anyone else. 

 

Frustrated, he wondered further forward, further away from the gates and to the very edges of the realm’s boundary. 

 

Still nothing.

 

He grounded his sharp teeth, letting them clatter against each other, a sound that was hated by the other nightmares, not least of all Surtif so he did more around him.

 

Noise. Noise just beyond the boundary of grey infinity that led to the Waking with the space in between. 

 

‘Ah,’ he thought. ‘There you are.’

 

He stepped across to the in grey.

 

“Naughty naughty, going out of bounds,” he teased.

 

It was like mist and he sensed and saw movement to his right.

 

Docen grinned. 

 

“Oh I like this game,” he said deviously. “Shall I chase you my dove? Shall I catch you?”

 

A growl answered him.

 

“What-!”

 

The jaws around his throat stopped him from making another sound.

 

 

 

 

Notes:

Ok I admit to humming “there may be something there that wasn’t there before…” (Beauty and the Beast) while writing that first scene 🤣😂🤣

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 35: Existence

Summary:

Matthew considers time and Morpheus makes a move

 

Chapter 35

 

Existence

 

Matthew wasn’t in the habit of contemplating his existence.

 

He had been human; been born, grown up, lived a not so great life and then died. 

 

And then not died. He was now sort of a dream. Now sort of definitely alive. And he knew he could die again. Knew there had been predecessors and not just the wonderful Jessamy.

 

But he didn’t really want to think about it either. 

 

Not about himself. Not about others.

 

He didn’t want to think of the fragility of mortality, or of aging, or of inevitable changes. 

 

Didn’t want to think about immortality either and eternity and and the endlessness of being an Endless.

 

But here he was, watching his boss, a being older than dirt, and he couldn’t help but wonder how someone so old, so beyond what he, in his limited understanding, could comprehend, could still act like a bumbling teenager around someone he liked.

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

“What are you reading?” Morpheus asked, in lieu of a hello. Matthew perched himself high of top of the book shelves.

 

Alyssa looked up from her book to smile at him. “Much Ado About Nothing. It’s my favourite Shakespeare.”

 

That pleased him. Not just what she was reading but that she had obviously read more than one. “Oh?”

 

“I saw a brilliant production of it online the other day; same words but a modern setting and costumes. It was so good!” she praised.

 

“Hmm.” Morpheus moved closer. He stood a little awkwardly next to her. “When I go to the Waking World I often review the old stories to see how they have changed. Perhaps you will accompany me on my next visit?”

 

“Yeah, that’d be nice,” she replied with a small smile but she continued on, not seeing the way he brightened and then flashed disappointment at her next words. “Though Mervyn and I were wondering if we could get a TV in here. National Theatre Live is always showing wonderful adaptations at the cinema too. Maybe there’s a way to magic it? Not sure if Lucienne would allow it though.”

 

She went on to tell him about the unusual play of Tess of the d’Urbervilles she had seen and they quietly discussed it.

 

Eventually Lucienne came to join them. 

 

Luckily Morpheus didn’t see the pitying look Matthew gave him.

 

 

Notes:

This chapter is really just a bit of fun following a conversation I had with alteon77

(Do check out her work it’s great! Especially - https://archiveofourown.org/works/42526941/chapters/106815246 )

Hope you can all spot some references x

I am still writing this but I’ll admit to being distracted by my Good Omens fics (I’ve got a rough idea for about 7 right now!) but I promise I will keep going!!!

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 36: A Rumour Spreads

Summary:

A bit of gossip comes to the land of the Fae and Ally helps try to reassure her friend

 

Chapter 36

 

A Rumour Spreads

 

The land of the Fairies was full with life. It’s current season had the land beautifully green with bursts of stunning colour. 

 

The denizens were sharing in its joy as they revelled in the bright sun, playing and dancing, courting and celebrating the summer with exuberance.

 

In the heart of it all sat Queen Titania. The beautiful fae watched her subjects with cool fondness, enjoying the atmosphere and aesthetics, and, of course, the reverence they all showed her, as they made sure she was comfortable, fed the most delicious offerings, given the most refreshing drinks, and had dancing partners constantly at the ready should she wish to take a turn.

 

She lounged happily in the warm sun, her courtiers gathered around her, one of her favourites gently plating a small braid into her hair. 

 

Titania had almost begun to doze when another favourite, Liliana, approached. She curtsied and moved round to sit, leaning over to whisper the latest news.

 

Titania’s eyebrow twitched as she listened. She thanked Liliana and sat up gracefully, thinking. 

 

Planning.

 

 

Xxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

Docen’s death had a strange effect in the Dreaming. 

 

Morpheus was quick to remind all the residents of the dangers of leaving the realm and the possible consequences of such actions. 

 

Most of the dreams were reassured but some were still left feeling anxious.

 

“I’m sure everything will be fine,” Gault said, trying to calm Quilin, a fellow winged dream.

 

Quilin rang her hands. “But what if the Baku do get in? What then?”

 

Ally placed a comforting hand in her arm. “Lucienne keeps talking about action plans and areas of safety. Just in case. I’m sure she’ll share them soon.”

 

“And in all the years, they have never, ever, breached the barriers. Even when Lord Morpheus was gone,” Gault added.

 

“Yes that’s true, that’s true,” she muttered and Gault led her away, quickly trying to return her to work and a sense of normalcy.

 

Morpheus came to join Ally and they watched the dreams launch themselves into the air and flutter away.

 

“I’m sorry for your loss,” Ally muttered.

 

“Docen’s actions were foolish. He knew better than to leave the safe of the realm,” he replied.

 

“Still…” She didn’t quite know what to say, think something along the lines of the old expression about not speaking ill of the dead.

 

“You would feel sorry for him? He is one of those who tormented you.”

 

He didn’t like to think about that time but she, as always, had surprised him with her kindness.

 

She gave a small movement, not quite a shrug. “Still,” she repeated.

 

He shook his head at her and led her back into the palace, returning her to the safety of the library and the high, guarded walls of the palace.

 

 

 

Notes:

Apologies for the long delay - holidays, children, sickness, hospital visits and all the joys of life. God I want a nap! But I wanted to finish and post this first. Another update won’t be far behind x

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 37: The Not-Song

Summary:

Ally’s powers continue to evolve

Chapter 37

 

The Not-Song

 

 

There was a song on the wind. Only it wasn’t a song. No music found Alyssa’s ears.

 

But the not-song was a …something. It was what she had felt in the Dreaming. That feeling. That not-sound.

 

It was so strange. But so captivating.

 

It pulled at her.

 

It was more feeling than anything but it was slow and steady like a melodic drum.

 

It was also so very beautifully.

 

Alyssa was in town. Chris had dropped her off before he headed to work. She just had to do a spot of shopping before she met Hob.

 

She fought it. Thought herself ridiculous. Changed her mind a dozen times. But she couldn’t help it. 

 

She slowly followed the not-melody through the streets, round corners, down alleyways, coming to dead ends and having to back track until finally she found the source. 

 

It was a old man. She could see him through his lounge window, hear him though it was muffled through the single glazed. He was playing the piano, pressing finger to keys to produce a lovely romantic melody, a pleased smile on his face. 

 

Ally tried to be subtle, grateful for the nearby bus stop, making her look less suspicious in her lingering. But when the old man’s music stopped, she couldn’t help but turn around and stare when she heard the small applause that followed. 

 

The not-song throbbed, like a heartbeat, happy and deep. 

 

The old man had a wife. A very petite woman. Frail. Fragile. And clearly utterly besotted as she gave her partner adoring praise.

 

The man went to her side and pressed a sweet kiss to her cheek and Ally had to look away.

 

Later Ally tried to explain what she had felt to Lucienne and to her confusion, the librarian just smiled.

 

“Your powers continue to grow but I am not surprised you found someone so similar to yourself first,” she said

 

Ally shook her head in denial, “I love the piano but he was clearly a professional. It’s was such beautiful music. So sweet.”

 

Lucienne’s smile widened. “As I said. I am not surprised.”

 

 

 

Notes:

I’m alive! Just about. I’m so sorry for the long LONG delay. Life has been ridiculous but I’m here and very happy to be writing again!

Feedback always welcome x

Chapter 38: Messages

Summary:

A message arrives in the Dreaming

Chapter 38

 

Messages

 

The message came in a trail of cherry blossoms. 

 

The undulating petals twirled around her as the voice on the wind gave instruction.

 

It was exquisite magic. Elegant and mesmerising.

 

Of course it was. The Queen of the Fairies would have nothing less than perfection in her display of majestic magical skill, even when issuing orders to someone like Nuala.

 

The petals swirled faster and tighter before dispersing in a gentle flutter.

 

It was a threat. 

 

Small. Tiny even. 

 

The shadow of intent.

 

But there.

 

And Nuala knew, regardless of how insignificant she was, any mishandling of this would result in consequences. 

 

Severe ones.

 

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

Not-songs were everywhere. 

 

Sometimes they took effort to hear. She would hear a not-tinkling or something like a breath against her ear and she would strain to catch more, try to follow before it would disappear or snap into silence.

 

Other times, thought thankfully rarely, it was hard to block them all out. They would be distracting and encroaching, a buzzing in the inner ear, frustrating Ally but making her all the happier when coming to the Dreaming.

 

Despite having first heard the not-song there, it was always muted or she wouldn’t hear it at all. She would concentrate hard but whatever the Dreaming was, it protected her from any bombardment beyond a steady strong beat of it own existence.

 

Morpheus confirmed it to her as he stood beside her while she sat on the bridge wall.

 

“This is my realm, an extension of me. I believe you hear the Dreaming’s responsibility to it’s residents.”

 

Alyssa just sighed, enjoying the peace of it all, pleased to have a respite and the joy of good company.

 

“It’s like my heartbeat,” she said after a moment. “I don’t really hear it.”

 

“I am glad it does not cause you discomfort.”

 

They shared a smile. 

 

For a moment, Ally thought to rest her head against his shoulder. 

 

But it was just a moment, and it disappeared in a blink.

 

 

Notes:

I LIVE!!!

No excuses, no apologies (shout out to meshalok for setting me straight 😉) just my heart felt gratitude to be able to share with you my stories ❤️

Chapter 39: A Rock and A Hard Place

Summary:

Nuala finds Ally

Notes:

Dearest Gentle Reader,
Apologies for not posting sooner. In light of Mr Gaiman’s allegations I had to take some time to decide whether I could/should continue or whether it felt too tainted.
I decided that, despite the circumstances, I was able to separate the work from the writer and, with seeing all the hard work put in by the tv show cast and crew, I could put aside my feelings on the matter and keep working on something that is mine.
I want to keep sharing my ideas and stories, I hope you enjoy reading them.

Chapter 39

 

A Rock and a Hard Place

 

Ally was so surprised when Nuala came to find her. 

 

They had rarely spoken, and while they were cordial, the fairy had always been so distant to her. When Ally tried to start a conversation, her responses were minimal with a general air of disinterest or even disapproval, especially if she referred to Morpheus in any way. Nuala would generally leave quickly, muttering about mortality and the perils of foolish humans.

 

Alyssa had been sad for it but accepted that distance none the less, so to have the fae calling out to her while she was sat watching the clouds reflected in the water was quite the surprise.

 

“Hello Nuala, how are you?“

 

The blonde fae squinted at her, almost surprised, but responded bluntly, “Well.”

 

“Good, that’s good.” When she said nothing further, Ally asked awkwardly, “Can I help you? Did you need something?”

 

“I ask that you come with me. Your presence has been… requested.”

 

“Oh um, okay.” Ally stood, brushing off her trousers, though no grass stuck to her. “Is everything alright?”

 

The fae seemed irritated by their concern.

 

“Yes,” Nuala replied, short. She then raised her hand. Nestled within was a single cherry blossom petal. 

 

It twirled, round and round, faster and faster, it’s circle growing wider. Once it became larger than the span of her hand, Nuala pushed it away. 

 

The twirling circle flipped sideways and continued to grow. The air within it rippled and then stilled. It had become a portal.

 

The scene on the other side was beautiful. Delicate flowers of gentle pink and yellow hues decorated the greenery, the scent that flowed through was sweet and inviting and gentle, tinkling music seeped in, calling and enticing.  

 

Ally’s eyes were wide with amazement at the show of magic but she kept her distance.

 

Nuala stared at her, almost trying to will Ally to go through with sheer thought alone but she stayed where she was, slowly turning to look at the fae.

 

“What’s going on?” Ally whispered. The magic was affecting her, making her warm and almost drunk. She gently swayed with the music but her feet didn’t move. 

 

Nuala was surprised. Most morals couldn’t resist the fae’s calling. She glanced at the doorway and straightened. “Titania, Queen of the Fair Lands, Mistress of the Highest Magics, Lady to Lord Auberon of Dom-Daniel, requires you presence.”

 

Ally frowned, unsure and unsteady. “Me?”

 

“Now.” Nuala’s voice was firm but Ally could see she was nervous.

 

She tried to listen to the fae’s not-song and it was a jumble. Conflicted. Nuala was torn between her loyalties. Ally was getting better at identifying the notes of the not-song but she couldn’t quite recognise what it meant.

The sound of tinkling music grew deeper in instruments, adding to it's temptation, to look, to listening, to come and see. That alluring pull tugged Alyssa to the portal. She stumbled a little and it was enough to break the spell long enough for her to turn back to Nuala.

 

“Lucienne was expecting me later, can you let her know?”

 

Nuala nodded and Ally stepped through.

 

She would let the librarian know.

 

But as the portal closed she turned and hurried away.

 

And not in search of Lucienne.

 

 

 

Notes:

Nuala’s story timeline has slightly changed but that will be covered soon.

Feedback loved x

Chapter 40: A Merry Dance

Summary:

Alyssa steps into Titania’s realm

Chapter 40

 

A Merry Dance

 

Alyssa had been drunk before of course, though recreational drugs had never been her thing.

 

She had merrily giggled with her friends on fun nights out and shared good wine at the Christmas parties.

 

This was not like that.

 

Everything was warm, not cloying or overwhelming, but a sparkling heat that fizzled over her. The haze was pleasant and reassuring. 

 

Bewitching.

 

A tall fae man came to her. He was beautiful with warm brown eyes and a cheeky smile. He swept an arm behind her and moved her with him, swaying, almost like a dance, bringing Ally forward.

 

More fae came towards her, all smiles and laughter and welcoming gestures. They gently pushed and pulled her between them, continuing the sway, leading her to dance, making her laugh brightly with the odd twirl.

 

And the magic swirled with her. Pushing. Pulling. Making her move.

 

The fae enjoyed her responses, her own smiles and giggles. A stunning blonde fairy woman stayed close to shimmer a glamour spell and beamed at Alyssa’s delighted gasp.

 

Ally’s clothes had changed to a beautiful, intricately beaded dress, flowing and elegant. Her hair changed to be plaited with hanging gems. 

 

“You are ready,” said the blonde.

 

Entranced, Ally asked,”Ready for what?”

 

The blonde just smiled, pressing her forward. 

 

The dancing fairies led her through a grove of flowering trees and onto the green where Titania waited with her courtiers under a canopied pergola.

 

The magic willed Alyssa to curtsy, low and bending.

 

The Queen stood elegantly. She looked amused, pleased at the human’s compliance. 

 

There was calculation behind that pleasure.

 

Xxxxxx

 

 

The Ruler of the Nightmare Realm strode through his domain, assessing as he went.

 

He had already expanded the graveyard, darkening the corners in it, then had added a few more pin pricks of light to the nearby dark wood, which offered glimmers of hope.

 

It was delicate work. Precise.

 

Little Candle watched from afar. 

 

They saw the King stop to talk to a few of the nightmares along the way, having spent a particularly long while with Dor, discussing the right temperature the smokey black being should use to for a specific dreamer.

 

It was amusing to them, that there be such focus on the little things. 

 

Morpheus continued on, moving to others, acknowledging them and then coming to stop at Voltis.

 

Little Candle’s hand clenched. They almost stepped forward, almost moved to intervene.

 

Voltis was nervous. He glanced in their direction but he seemed to being staying quiet for now so they calmed themselves.

 

Still the Nightmare was grateful to see Nuala rushing to meet the King, pulling him away to talk in hushed but serious tones.

 

With their ruler distracted, Little Candle relaxed again. They waited for Voltis to join them. 

 

Waited.

 

And thought. 

 

And smiled.

Notes:

Hope you all haven’t forgotten about our dear Little Candle…

Feedback loved and adored

Chapter 41: Titania

Summary:

Titania meets Ally

Chapter 41

 

Titania

 

 

“I’m so sorry, my Lord. The invitation came for her,” Nuala said, as they strode away from the Nightmare realm, “and I could not let it go unanswered.”

 

“You were right to tell me Nuala,” Morpheus replied.

 

“I should have told you sooner…”

 

“All will be well. Do not worry yourself.” Morpheus wouldn’t admit it but he was unsure if he was speaking to her or himself.

 

“But my Lord-”

 

Dream stopped short to turn and reassure her. “You have always been loyal to me, Lady Nuala. Ever since Queen Titania gifted you to me all those years ago.”

 

“That night with Shakespeare,” she said with a smile of remembrance and Nuala went a little pink. 

 

While it had been so degrading to be handed off like a unwanted toy, and all for  the sake of a simple thank you for an entertaining evening, she had been happy to go. And she had been smitten the moment she met him.

 

“I am… grateful for that. And for your good council.”

 

Nuala’s blush deepened at the praise and attention. “I only wish for your happiness my Lord.”

 

“As I do for yours,” he said with a slight frown as if asking why he would want anything else for her.

 

She went to say something more but he was already turning away, calling for Matthew to act as his herald.

 

Dream of the Endless were going to Faerie. 

 

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

It was the not-song that centred Ally.

 

It was something of an off tempo beat, something out of sync, and a high pitched grating that felt like screams or finger nails on a chalkboard. It distracted her enough to shatter the spell. Hidden in her bent position, she took a moment to collect herself.

 

As Titania acknowledged the blonde fae, complimenting her on the “improvements”, she didn’t see the warmth receded from Ally, an tiny shudder running though her as her vision became sharper. 

 

The Queen reached and pulled at Ally’s arms, giving a gentle tug, allowing her to stand and clasp at their hand together.

 

“Thank you for your generous invitation, your Majesty,” Ally said, keeping her gaze low. 

 

The answering grin was sharp. The Queen spoke as if to a child, “You are welcome here, little one.”

 

Ally glanced around, seeing everything clearly. The stunning greenery remained even as the gossamer haze faded. “Your realm is so beautiful.”

 

Titania laughed, a mocking sound, “Surely it is nothing compared to Lord Shaper’s lands.”

 

Ally opened her mouth to object, or possibly apologise, but the fae continued, “Come, sit with me and we shall talk.”

 

She tugged again, bringing Ally to her chemise, gesturing for her to sit. “Now. I know all about you, Alyssa Holloway. And I have heard things, things about you and our Lord Morpheus. And about your abilities.”

 

Alyssa tried to hide her concern. She didn’t want to be known. “I don’t really have ab-”

 

“You have power,” she interrupted and continued with an underlying sense of disparagement. “Just a little spark. Enough to be… entertaining I suppose. It is an Endless power is it not? That you have been granted? You are one of them now?”

 

Ally shifted uncomfortably. Her face felt heavy from the powder on her skin. “I am not an Endless, your Majesty. I have… just a spark, as you say.”

 

“You have no true power then? No influence or realm?”

 

She shook her head. “I don’t know what influence I might have but I don’t have a realm or anything like that.”

 

“Still you have something.” She leaned closer. “Enough to get Lord Shaper’s attention at the very least. He must have some kind of interest to claim you as he has.”

 

Titania noticed Ally’s baffled look and her grin turned a touch wicked.

 

“Oh? He has not told you? Interesting…” Her fingers elegantly tapped at her lips. “There are many reasons for an Endless to claim another; sometimes it is for a subject that has curried favour, it is a reward.”

 

She leaned closer still. “Or power you wish to keep for yourself, minimal though it is. Or…”

 

Titania’s eyes went to examine Alyssa closely. The hand at her mouth reach across to touch Ally’s, smoothing a thumb across her bottom lip.

 

“To secure a lover.”

 

Ally kept still at the unwanted touch but tried to speak, “I- We’re not-”

 

“It is what I would have done.” Titania replied, dismissive of Ally’s discomfort. She leant back. “Not to your liking? Very well. Cluracan?” 

 

The Queen called and the tall male Ally met before stepped into tent.

 

“Your Majesty,” he replied with a low bow.

 

“Take the little one with you and see to her comfort. Away with you now.” 

 

Ally had no choice when his strong hands took hers to pull her away from the pergola.

 

“I must ready must ready myself for Lord Shaper’s arrival. Surely he would not want this little trinket to wander far.”

Notes:

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 42: Fickle Mortals

Summary:

Titania greets the King of Dreams

 

Chapter 42

 

Fickle Mortals

 

 

Years ago Ally had been helping Mervyn with his work when she had nearly knocked over a piece of art. 

 

She had quickly apologised and made sure the ancient wine jug was safe before examining it.

 

It was a beautiful piece of pottery, handmade and painted with stunning details.

 

The leaf motif was intricate but within the pattern was a hidden image; fairies dancing and a obviously royal pair sat in centre. 

 

“Careful with that kid.”

 

Ally nodded and said, “It’s so beautiful.”

 

Mervyn huffed. “Yeah well that’s fairy stuff for you.”

 

“Fairy?”

 

“Yeah,” Mervyn replied. He frowned at her. “You’ve seen them around right?”

 

Ally’s cheeks coloured. “Yes. I try to avoid them. I mean,” she said, shifted uncomfortably. “I try not to disturb anyone but their dreams are always a little more…”

 

Intrusive.

 

Obvious.

 

Naked. 

 

Aggressive.

 

Filled with envy.

 

Rutting.

 

Decadence and sloth in extremes.

 

“…excessive. Compared to others.”

 

Meryn grumbled a laugh. “You’re all weirdos to me kid, but yeah. Those guys?” He shook his pumpkin head. “Those guys are the worst. Stuck up pricks the lot of them. Especially coz they try to pretend they’re not.”

 

He looked like he wanted to knock the jug off deliberately. 

 

“I tell you, kid. Never trust a fairy.”

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

Morpheus stepped into the land of Faerie and nodded to Matthew who was perched in a tree high above, allowing the raven returned to the Dreaming.

 

Later the bird would say he was very happy to be home. The guards had made more than one comment about keeping him as a pet for the royal couple, regardless of his position.

 

Titania was waiting, perfectly presented,  and she sashayed towards Morpheus, her expression coy but calculated. “I greet you, Dream King.”

 

“Well met, Queen Titania,” he replied with a bow.

 

She moved closer to him and he allowed her to slide her arm around his. 

 

“I have missed you,” she said, jovial, her fingers dancing down the collar of his coat. “It has been a while since you last graced our realm with your presence.”

 

“Apologies, your Grace. You know how busy I can be with my responsibilities.” He looked down at her. “And you with yours.”

 

“Yes you have been busy haven’t you? Your mortal… what a funny little thing she is. Is she your lover? She denied it but you never can tell with humans.” She tutted at him. “You know that’s against the rules.”

 

He stiffened. “I am well aware of the rules that govern me Titania. She is not my lover. And she is not quite mortal.”

 

“Oh?” He could see she was trying to hide her annoyance.

 

“My sister confirmed it,” he replied, almost smug at her conflicted reaction. Titania didn’t like to be wrong. And she had never liked his sibling either.

 

“Ah. Well… Mortal enough for her to come when called.”

 

Dream’s expression darkened at the mention of the spell. “You bewitched her? She would have come on her own. I don’t believe she would have refused your invitation if it had been genuine.”

 

Titania almost sneered. “You know fickle mortals can be, my Lord. And I just had to see for myself.”

 

She led him to the group of fae who where entertaining Alyssa. She fully expected the human to be overcome with the pleasures her people could offer. 

 

Titania wondered what Lord Shaper would make of his little pet being swept away by it all.

 

The fae had swarmed around the human, offerings of food and wine in hand. They gave little bows and stepped back as their Queen and her guest approached.

 

As ordered, Cluracan was standing with Alyssa, holding her waist to keep her close. 

 

He grinned down at Ally, fingers going from fiddling with her hair to her cheek. “Come child, surely we could-”

 

There was a small smacking sound followed by shock silence and Titania stopped their advance.

 

Alyssa had slapped a faerie’s hand away as he had tried to touch her face.

 

“Sorry,” she said, bringing her hands up. “I’m really not interested. And while I may be younger than you, I can assure you I am fully grown. Now will you please just-”

 

“Alyssa,” Dream called and her head snapped up, eyes meeting.

 

“Morpheus…” she whispered, relief clear.

 

They didn’t see Titania’s eyebrows twitch at the lack of title.

 

Ally excused herself and made her way to him.

 

Titania gave a little huff. She would have words for Cluracan later for his failures. “She is a feisty little thing isn’t she. I can see why you claimed her.”

 

Her eyes narrowed, taking in the pair. Morpheus’ chin went up. He deliberately didn’t look at Ally.

 

“The last one you claimed was who? One of your staff? Or was it Calliope? Your wife?” Her smile turned spiteful. “But we all know how that turned out. That bond has long since been broken.”

 

He didn’t respond.

 

“No matter,” Titania said, hands fluttering. ‘‘Tis all in the past now.”

 

“Yes it is.” Finally a response but he remained expressionless until he glanced down Ally and it flickered.

 

“Remove the glamour from her. Now. Please,” he added cooly.

 

Titania tutted again. “Surely you jest. It is protocol-”

 

“She is not a member of your court.”

 

Titania laughed again but it was different this time as she considered aloud, “She could be though.” 

 

She turned her attention to Ally, stepping close. She seemed to actually be looking at her properly for the first time.

 

“You could be. Why not stay little one? You could stay with me and tell me of your human world. Long has it been since I had news of it.” Her face turned mischievous. “And we could still find you someone else to play with.”

 

“Thank you. That is very generous. I have been overwhelmed by your… hospitality, your Majesty,” Alyssa chose her words carefully. “But have have responsibilities at home that I can’t ignore.”

 

Titania dimmed. “She sounds like you, Lord Shaper.”

 

Ally smiled brightened, “I take that as a great compliment.”

 

The Queen eased away, nodding to the blonde.

 

The glamour melted away. The other fairies shifted uncomfortably, their obviously disdainful response was clear and Titania voiced it, glancing at Morpheus as well.

 

“You truly prefer this?”

 

Ally blinked, then met the Queen’s eyes.“You are very beautiful. Much more beautiful than me. You could put every glamour you have on me and I don’t think I would ever be as pretty as those here. I don’t think I would fit in. Best for me to just accept that.”

 

Titania looked almost dumbfounded at the response. Morpheus’ head tilted, curious as to why she had said it so matter of factly.

 

Ally gave a tiny shrug at his look, “I have an older sister. She’s much prettier than I am.”

 

Titania laughed again, mocking a little this time, but trying to regain her composure. 

 

“You are entertaining.”

 

Before she could be stopped the Queen lent forward again. Morpheus’ expression turned thunderous as the Queen pressed as kiss to Ally’s cheek, scowling at the magic that settled there.

Forever marking her.

 

Notes:

I hope it’s clear how Titania really doesn’t have an interest in Ally at all, just as a way to get Dream’s attention until Ally is entertaining enough to (unfortunately) properly catch Titania’s eye.

Chapter 43: Claimed

Summary:

An awkward situation

Chapter 43

 

Claimed

 

 

Alyssa’s cheek tingled from the magic. Her hand raised to it, she stared at Titania in shock. Part of her wanted to claw and scratch, to dig the magic out before it nestled deeper.

 

“She does not know the ways of fae magic. You have marked her,” Morpheus said, displeasure clear.

 

“I should like her to come back so I simply wish to make a claim of my own.” Titania said, almost laughing at his territorial display. He never did like to share that which he called his. 

 

“It is easy enough,” she continued, turning her attention to Ally again. “Find a flower and place it in water. Say my name and we shall see if your tribute is worthy.” She smiled turned sharp. “Then you can come and stay, and entertain us with your tales.”

 

There was an underlying threat that Ally could then never leave. Still, quietly, she said, “Thank you.”

 

“Though I may still call you again…”

 

“Please address any other invitations through me,” Morpheus declared, causing Ally to frown up at him. She was grateful for his protection but didn’t want to cause any further burden.

 

Titania clapped her hands, delighted she had gotten under his skin. “So possessive of your prize Lord Shaper,” she scolded playfully.

 

“She does not know your ways, Titania,” he reiterated, then his tone lowered. “I should not want for there to be any… insults, in regard to my claimed.” 

 

Titania just hummed, “She’s such a sweet little thing. I’m certain there won’t be.”

 

Dream straighten to give a scathing reply but Ally shifted beside him. She radiated her own discomfort though was trying so hard to hide it.

 

“I shall try my best not to, your Majesty,” she said politely and curtsied, an obvious move to dismiss herself.

 

Morpheus follow suit with a small bow and Titania give a little wave as the sand began to swirl around them.

 

“Until next time,” the Queen called but the Dream Lord kept his eyes on Alyssa.

 

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

They arrived back in the Dreaming, on the green not far from the palace. 

 

Ally immediately turned to walk towards it. She was desperate to get the library, to hide away and centre herself. It was all starting to hit her; the magic, the Queen, the fairies and their lingering touches, the utter absurdity of the whole situation, and she didn’t want to become overwhelmed out in the open. 

 

The not-song of the Dreaming was already helping to sooth her, overriding the echoing discord of Faerie.

 

Morpheus followed close, concern growing at her silence and the way she wrapped her arms around herself. “Alyssa, did they harm you?”

 

She slowed. She didn’t want to ignore him but everything was so off kilter and she struggled to find her words. “No, no, of course not.” She felt violated nonetheless but in a detached way that she couldn’t explain. “They just got a little handsy is all.”

 

Dream stopped dead, angry and she noticed, quick to deescalate.

 

She gave an awkward laugh, dismissive, “I had worse at the last Christmas party when the boss got a little drunk.”

 

That didn’t really make it better and Morpheus quickly made a mental note to rally the nightmares later.

 

Still Ally persisted in her downplay and distraction. She touched her cheek again. It still itched.

 

“Will this still have an effect when I wake up? It’ll only work in the Dreaming right?”

 

Morpheus’ head tilted. His anger seeped away in the face of realisation. “You do not know.” He continued at her obvious confusion. “This is your physical body Alyssa. You have started to fully enter my realm as you rest.”

 

She couldn’t comprehend it. “I’m dreaming but I’m also here? What…?”

 

“You no longer truly dream. It is how you were able to leave the Dreaming and travel to Faerie. It is a new occurrence. You’re absence in the Waking world would have been noticed if it was not. It is simply your powers growing again,” he added, trying to reassure.

 

She went silent again turning the thought over again and in her head. She shivered and her hands clenched, arms going back around herself. She could see he was worried so she muttered with sad lopsided smile, “I really want a shower.”

 

The glamour had been removed but it felt like the weight of the makeup was still there. A cloy smell of gardenia and phlox lingered. She still fought the urge to scratch at her cheek.

 

She started moving again, deep in thought. Ally decided she would check in with Lucienne as promised and head to Fiddler’s Green, thinking perhaps the waters there could wash away her feelings.

 

Morpheus stopped her again though. “Alyssa. My claiming of you. I would explain it.”

 

He wanted to separate himself from Titania and her overstepped used of magics but still, he had done it. It was a claim; a mark on her, a declaration of connection to the Dreaming, true, but there was also an assertion that she was something that could be owned.

 

And without foreknowledge or consent, something he had never done before in any use of it.

 

Slowly he explained how Despair had wanted Ally, had come to collect her and he had been able to stop it by claiming her as his own.

 

“So you did it to save me?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“And that’s all. Right. Okay, thank you.” She gave an uncomfortable breathy laugh. “Titania kept going on about us being lovers. Is she your crazy ex girlfriend or something?”

 

He didn’t reply, silence saying more and Ally gave a sympathetic shrug.

 

“Reminded me Violet, always distracted by a compliment.” Her gaze dropped and her smile became awkward. She muttered, “Shows what she knows.”

 

“You are so certain of my feelings?”

 

Ally stared back at him in surprise but couldn’t help but give a scoffing laugh. It was an awful sound. It was full of self depreciation.

 

“You don’t have to worry. I know you don’t… And I…” Her hands fidgeted as trailed off, unable to to finish her sentence, then shook her head at him, resolute. She couldn’t quite look at him. “So there’s no problem. Promise.”

 

He frowned and kept staring at her. Under his penetrating gaze Ally felt absolutely raw.

 

“I-I would like to wake up now.”

 

“Alyssa-” Morpheus tried to continue but she interrupted him.

 

“Please.”

 

She still wouldn’t look at him. 

 

Unable to deny her request, he sent her back to the Waking World, leaving them both alone with their thoughts.

 

 

Notes:

Feedback loved and adored x

Chapter 44: Soul Searching

Summary:

The King of Dreams uses his power

Notes:

Thank you all for the comments and delicious kudos! They keep me writing!

 

Chapter 44 

 

Soul Searching 

 

 

Morpheus sat on his throne, Alyssa’s words and silences continued to repeat in his mind again and again.

 

Outside the wind picked up and the moat water had become choppy.

 

She had rejected him.

 

‘Or had she?’ he thought. 

 

The wind dropped.

 

She vexed him.

 

Her unfinished sentences and her assumptions.

 

Clearly Alyssa believed he did not care for her, despite how obvious he felt he had been. She had asked to leave, something she had never done before, wanting to be away from him. 

 

But he reasoned her retreat could have been due to Titania’s actions, not their halting conversation.

 

She vexed him.

 

He could woo her, offer her gems and riches beyond imagining, pay her tribute in finery and luxury, give her-

 

Alyssa wouldn’t accept such excessive gestures easily. 

 

And even if she did, in all possibly she would accept the brightest of gift with the same deep gratitude as she would a wilting flower. 

 

She vexed him.

 

He decided he would start simply then. A dinner. A declaration. A-

 

Morpheus knew he was putting it all at risk. It could ruin their carefully build friendship. 

 

He could hurt her. 

 

Again.

 

He had to know. 

 

He knew he had to be careful to avoid Lucienne, certain she would disapprove, call it an invasion of privacy. But this was his realm. 

 

And he had to know.

 

Morpheus called all of her books to him reaching out for her slim dream chronicles, the incomplete biography from the Waking World, the strange addition of her life in the Dreaming, even her favourite works of fiction, pulling them all to the throne room. He added her musical works, the clearest form of insight she unknowingly shared, her gift to him going front and centre. And the ruined flower crown, carefully placed on top of it.

 

Since the evolution of her power, little had been added except an additional small notations that detailed her blossoming potential that Alyssa herself had insisted upon to track her own development. He placed that next to him, his only true tie to her current state.

 

Where before in his investigation of her he had searched for sparks of power and found none, now he searched for feelings and found a plethora. 

 

He stood, concentrating as the throne room grew darker and the books and papers levitated, the crown rotating slowly.

 

Using her love of the form, golden music notes began to form. A piano’s ringing middle C sounded, then higher and lower ones. 

 

Alyssa’s life. 

 

With flats and sharps and surrounded by other keys and instruments, echoing in concert and chaos; the quiet sadness of her early childhood, the discord as she grew, solid chords of personality traits, the rhythm of her caring and compassionate nature, the haunting melody of fear and wonder as her powers developed.

 

He could hear a flowing E note and he  searched for her dreams. She was so different from other who mostly ran wild with imagination. Hers were so modest. 

 

Realistic. Calm and unassuming. Sweet. 

 

Her pool to relax in, the endless library, gentle spaces filled with warmth and colour, mixing in with memories, though at times they were sad. 

 

Even her phobias were grounded; her fear of abandonment, loneliness, failure and ineptitude. And an echo of the newer terror of loosing control and hurting others with her “gifts”. 

 

But Morpheus did not find what he was looking for. There were her early, adolescent crushes, but nothing beyond a longing for a love, someone to hold her, someone to be intimate with but even this was muted, vague and abstract. 

 

There was silence as his perception of her diminished.

 

He paused for a moment before he went deeper, delving further into the tempest of thoughts and feelings. 

 

This was a difficult task, searching through the tumult of a person and being so consumed within Alyssa may have triggered her to become aware of his probing but he was in the heart of his realm, his power was absolute here.

 

There. Finally. A soft G note.

 

Discarded dreams. Thoughts and wishes that had long been abandoned or trampled down into nothing in the face of reality. Morpheus organised them in to nebulous shapes, rows of little floating oddities that, when he raised his hand to them, showed him a moment of absolute feeling at various stages of her life.

 

Some were bright globs of a child’s naivety for world peace, no pollution or deforestation, that everyone could be happy, that poverty didn’t exist.

 

Others were sharp envious boxes expressing ridiculously materialistic wants for toys or brands Alyssa liked as a teenager, even a lottery win for millions and millions.

 

Then came the bitterly painful ones of her parents being a different, kinder, better, that a simple treatment for Annie existed and they could talk and laugh about everything together, that Violet had never left and they were a whole, contented family. 

 

There were spatters of pinpointed desire here and there, scorching and consuming.

 

Tendrils of old fears outgrown.

 

A cold solid sphere of surrender. 

 

Wisps of a different life, of walking a different path.

 

Then he found it. 

 

It was a star, bright and molten but it was smothered and flickered again and again. He could not pin point a time of origin but,  as he brought it closer, he recognised it. 

 

This was one of his stars.

 

He cradled in his hands and the heat spread.  

 

It was so warm.

 

This was a discarded wish but this tiny flare of hope persevered, against the odds, never fully extinguishing despite she attempts to temper it.

 

Alyssa loved him. Truly.

 

Or at least she would, if she allowed herself the possibility of it. 

 

The warmth continued to spread and all those who were dreaming, even those who had spent time with the nightmares, would wake with a curl of that heat and a echo of a smile of their lips.

 

Notes:

Ok so this is really like him reading her diary and being completely inappropriate but he’s Dream and he’s an idiot 🤣

This was one of my earliest ideas for a scene showing Morpheus’ power and how very different Ally is. Lots of fun to write!

Hope you enjoy it!

 

Feedback loved and adored x

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Dream and Devotion