Free Me From My Chains (ClassMare)

Troubles Ahead

The moment Ink had reached the castle, he felt every part of him tremble. His experiences were less than pleasant. Even so, he felt the air had become more stable. His normal edge and anxiety was cut in half as he knocked quietly on the large door. Blue had been beside him, curiosity coursing through the smaller skeleton. The sight forced a chuckle. Blue had decided to join the travel in hopes to meet Dream's brother. Ink had protested in the beginning, but neither the King nor Dream could refuse his adorable nature.

Ink had been so deep into his mind he hadn't noticed the doors opening until a voice reached him. He glanced up to find a skeleton wearing rather poor attire. They remained stuffed in lounge wear, a basic hoodie hugging their frame. Ink felt himself scowl at the lack of style. Blue on the other hand was wide eyed, admiring the skeleton entirely. 

"I forgot Dream's lackey's were to arrive. Come in!" Ink narrowed his gave as he pushed past, Blue lingering slightly behind. His eyes remained glued on the skeleton. "Who's the new face with you?"

"This is Blue, an old friend of Dream's. He requested becoming a part of the court, so Dream allowed it. He helps run the treaties and kingdom vault." 

"Nice... Names Dust kiddo. Why join some boring court?" The sentence drew a hate filled gaze from Ink. Even so, dust ignored it as Blue spoke up.

"I've wanted to do something important. My goal is to form peace among enemies and help Dream's kingdom prosper. What do you do?" Dust contemplated an answer before sighing.

"Pretty much the same. Money management with a few other jobs tacked on. Most of the subjects in this castle hold multiple roles, even the King himself. He rules, protects, and watches over his entire land alone. If conflict arises, he settles the dispute." Ink scoffed as he deepened his tone.

"Oh please. Never has Nightmare cared for anyone, especially his own people. They are savage and greedy murderers..." Ink was cut short as a hand pressed to his neck. His body hit the wall as a low growl emanated from Dust. He would have tightened his hand had Blue not snatched his hoodie. The slight tug drew Dust's gaze. He noticed the fear, an apologetic look crossing his expression. Releasing Ink, he gave a partial smile to Blue as another voice broke out.

"What is going on that has caused an absurd amount of racket? I simply asked you to welcome the guest, not abuse them!" Nightmare stepped from the darkness, his singular eye dropping onto the two visiting skeletons. He gave a soft smile, confusion washing over Ink while Blue smile back. "I apologize for Dust. I have some tea ready, if you would like that is!"

"I want tea! Are their sweets?" Nightmare noticed Blue's excitement. A soft chuckle slipped from him as he nodded. Blue let out a shriek before tugging at Ink. His friend was buried in his mind. Nightmare had seemed so different from previously. What had changed him?

The moment they entered the dining hall, Ink felt his breath hitch. The normal gloomy nature was instead replaced with vibrant colors. He felt more confused as he stumbled over to a seat. Taking it, he glanced at the King who sat at the end. Another chair remained opened beside him as his subjects joined the table.

"Sorry for not greeting you at the door. Welcome to my home Ink. This is a new face I assume?" 

"Yeah! I'm Blue, a new member to Dream's court!" Nightmare nodded as he noticed Ink's gaze. Ignoring the constant disbelief, he carried on his conversation until Ink spoke up.

"I would have guessed Error would attend, no?" A long silence followed before Horror spoke.

"Just as you have a new member to the court, we too have received a new member. They are not entirely a member of the court, but hold a position within this castle. You should meet them soon." Ink nodded as he leaned back in his seat. A new member? Who would join someone so cruel? The thought of another killer crossed his mind, irritation apparent.