Dream? Who is that?

Chapter 2- Too many people.. (Birth Multiverse)

Dream learns a lot and is getting used to a routine. His co-Guardian soon ruins this

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Dreamtale AU

Past Dream was an idiot and should have burned any hope of getting on with Nightmare, while he could.

He had learned a 'wonderful' thing, that he was being unable to talk and only being able to make sounds like a baby. Going to Nightmare for help was a mistake, as he was mocked then swiftly left alone to deal with it. He had managed to figure it out for himself but that was after much trial and error.

When he saw Nightmare play with some purple energy he didn't bother asking what it was and instead watched in fascination.

He practised further into the woods and was confused when his energy was gold, instead of purple. Was he doing this wrong? He had only seen Nightmare so far, so had no idea what counted as normal. He decided to persevere and grinned when he could summon it consistently.

The routine continued like this when one day he started feeling an odd ache in his body. It continued for months on end until it suddenly vanished. He felt he should have been doing something, apart from wandering about and practising with his energy but had no idea what.

It had garnered a weird reaction in Nightmare, who muttered about 'how stupid' he was. These comments were nothing new, so he no longer reacted to the harsh words.

He was unsure how long they had been alive for before Nightmare started acting more erratic. They had both set up traps around the tree, as they were apparently supposed to protect it?, but Nightmare had started leaving rather lethal looking ones around. He was unsure what brought this on until he turned his skull North, sensing something coming near.

Days passed and he could feel the sensation grow, making him more on edge. When other beings walked into the clearing he grew alarmed and soon Nightmare was beside him, looking furious.

"Their emotions are revolting. I bet they want the Golden apples"

Emotions? Is that what he had been sensing? It did make things more clear but now he would have to learn what each one felt like. This was going to get tiring and his energy inside him sparked in irritation. A small smile formed, at having something that would stay with him through this life, even if no one else would.

He listened as Nightmare threatened the group to stay away and kept his expression neutral, when they glanced over to him. He had no idea why they thought he would be on their side but wanted to quickly nip that hope while he could. He might not like Nightmare but at least he knew him.

He flared his energy in warning when one being tried to sneak to the tree and glared at them to back away. He must be scarier than he thought, as they sprinted back to the group, hiding from his gaze.

When they finally left, after hours of bickering, Nightmare turned to him with a serious expression.

"They can't have the apples, either of them. They will be back so we need to get ready. That means no leaving the tree alone for long"

"Of course, Nightmare"

He had noticed how he was rarely referred to as 'Dream' and thought perhaps that wasn't his true name. Maybe he should think of one for himself, to make him feel more like a person and not like an unwanted burden.

-

Nightmares' prediction was sadly correct and they had to often defend themselves against thieves, as the seasons passed. He had accidentally broken the arm, of what he learned was called a human and knew he would have to learn his limits. He practised on the trees nearby and was content as his new restraint. He didn't want to hear more complaints that he went 'too far' anytime soon.