A Nightmare's Honor

Nerves

{M} Blue Leader POV:

I can't believe I'm doing this... I was trying my best to appear calm, but I could tell from the nervous glances I was getting that it wasn't working. In the minute or so I was waiting for the Nightmare King's messenger to return with an answer, many Yellow Steves passed me, clearly busy with work. But not a single one passed me without meeting my gaze, and thereafter looking unnerved. No matter how hard I tried, I guess the fear still glistened in my eyes, my nerves obvious in my uncomfortably shifting feet.

When the messenger finally returned, he beckoned me to follow, then sped off. He was walking so fast I had to practically run just to keep up. I know Yellow Steves are fast, but this is ridiculous! How can they keep such a high speed so consistently? We quickly reached the Nightmare King's chambers, and the messenger opened the door. After mere seconds, he moved aside, allowing me to enter.

"Greetings, Blue Leader." The Nightmare King's gaze was unreadable as he acknowledged me. "My messenger told me you have urgent news."

I struggled to slow the frantic beating of my heart. None of the leaders would ever dare question the Nightmare King aloud, but I couldn't help but wonder nervously if the darkness on him was affecting his mind- or contagious, as darkness usually is. And yet, from what I have been told, they are just scars, a constant reminder of his past.

"Y-yes..." I said finally, my heartbeat slightly slower than before. "Darkness has infiltrated the World Beyond." I waited for the Nightmare King to say something, but he remained silent, his calculated gaze seeming to ask me to continue. "I told the other leaders... but..."

"They didn't want to help," he said, finishing where my voice had trailed off. When I gave a small nod, trying not to glance at his scars, he asked, "So, then, care to tell me why they refused to help?"

Somewhat hesitantly, I answered him. "...They said that if they sent any of their Steves to help, they would risk bringing the darkness to their own kingdoms. They all believed they would be able to protect themselves if the darkness leaked farther, now that they have time to prepare. But none of them are willing to assist my people..."

The Nightmare King gave a sudden, annoyed sigh. I couldn't stop myself from flinching in response. What will he do? What will he say? Am-... Am I in danger...?

"The other leaders have let their pride cloud their judgment," he started, meeting my gaze with a surprisingly calming expression. "Do not worry, Blue Leader. I, of all people, understand the severity of the situation. I will send my elite with the Yellow Crystal to help."

I finally felt myself relax, all of my nerves seeming to disappear at his calming gaze and reassuring words. "Thank you, Nightmare King."