Chapter Text
Dream knew it was morning when the birds started chirping outside the window. He heard the trees softly move against the wind and saw the bright blue sky. It was almost like nothing ever happened the day before.
He attempted to rise out of bed, but his pelvis still stung. He quickly sat back down, taking this chance to continue gazing outside.
He saw the birds fly around the trees, chasing one another, and the bees gliding through the flowers he planted. He didn’t notice he was softly smiling at the sight until he caught his reflection in the mirror.
His face had some scratches here and there, and his body was covered in bandages—especially his chest.
A hiss of discomfort escaped him as he lightly poked one of the bandages, a reminder that he still bore significant injuries. He decided to lie down, enveloped by the warm embrace of the soft white cotton blankets.
He hummed at the feeling and rested his eyes for a little nap. The outdoor sounds lulled him to sleep, leaving Blue and Ink in the kitchen.
Blue got up somewhat pleasantly, as he was filled with worry about yesterday’s incident. He didn’t want to think of what would’ve happened if Ink and he arrived a little later, yet his mind betrayed him.
Would Dream even be sleeping as he is today?
He imagined the possible sight of Dream that lay dead before them, as the thing stood on top with satisfaction.
Blue quickly snapped out of him and began making his way down the kitchen. He needed something to distract him from his thoughts.
He gathered batter from the cabinets and began making pancakes as Ink sat down.
Ink was lost in his thoughts, perched on a chair with a small notebook in hand, filled with intricate doodles. One corner featured a charming cloud showering flowers, while the other was adorned with swirling patterns, stars, and dots.
He lifted the pencil in front of him and turned to a new page.
He lifted his pencil, moving to a fresh page, and began sketching pancakes, careful to depict the butter and glistening syrup. He layered at least ten pancakes atop one another, a delicious portrayal.
His stomach growled in anticipation, making him close his notebook and focus on the batter sizzling in the pan.
“When are the pancakes gonna be ready? I’m staaaarrrvingggg,” Ink groaned. He lowered his head onto the table.
“They’re ready when they’re ready.” Blue continued to cook, unphased by the usual hangry Ink every morning.
“Auuughhhhhhhhhh. I’m so hungry! Blueee hurry up.”
“Oh, please, give making them a shot yourself," Blue retorted, though he was momentarily startled as he realized he had forgotten to check on Dream.
Blue turned his head towards Ink, raising confusion in the artist.
“What?” Ink asked.
“If you check on Dream, I’ll add sprinkles to your pancakkeeess.” Blue personally did not like the idea of sprinkles of pancakes, but he’ll tolerate it. Just for today.
“Okie dokie.”
Ink quickly got up and ran towards the stairs.
His footsteps towards Dream’s room were heard by Dream, causing him to groan. He was so comfy in bed and he didn’t want to get up for whatever news Ink had. He wanted to enjoy his rare rest.
He threw the blanket over his face and groaned louder.
“Ughh, Why today,” Dream complained.
The door creaked open, and Ink’s voice followed.
“Morning, sleepy head. Blue asked me to check up on ya! He’s making pancakes, so get up!” Ink dramatically unveiled Dream by removing the blanket, revealing Dream's annoyed expression.
“Guess someone woke up on the wrong side of bed,” The artist muffled.
Despite his need for more rest, Dream slowly sat up with the help of Ink.
They began descending, each step causing a stinging pain in Dream. This went unnoticed by Ink as he lifted his friend and walked down the remainder of the steps.
He placed Dream on one of the three chairs and continued to wait for the pancakes expectantly.
“Thanks, Ink.” Blue then placed the breakfast on each plate, making sure to give Ink the sprinkles. He then sat for himself and began eating.
After a few bites, Blue turned to Dream and asked,
“How are you feeling?”
“Not so great,” Dream answered. “I could be better.”
“I bet,” Ink said.
They continued eating in silence, their thoughts brimming with concern for Dream. Relief mingled with worry as they savored the moment of having Dream alive and present. Blue and Ink exchanged glances, a wordless acknowledgment of their shared apprehension.
As they finished their breakfast, Blue suggested,
“Dream, me and Ink were talking about creating plans for the monster, thing, or whatever you call it. Who knows what it’s doing right now?”
Dream looked up from his plate, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. Despite his injuries, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of responsibility to address the situation that had caused so much trouble the day before.
“You’re right,” Dream replied, his voice tinged with determination. “We can’t just ignore it and hope it goes away.”
“How should we even start? We don’t even know what that is?” Ink asked.
“We’ll have to try to inform as many people as we can. I can be in charge of that,” Blue stated. “We can also have Sci try to figure things out. He might be able to be a big help.”
“Should we also tell Nightmare? What if it goes after him too?” Dream chimed in.
Blue and Ink sat in silence for a couple of seconds, sharing glances. Nightmare was one of the biggest threats to them and the citizens. If they tell him, he might use the unknown monster to his advantage, causing further damage that may not be reversible.
“We’ll think about that later,” Blue said.
“Oh,” Dream mumbled. He began fidgeting with his sleeves, as the other two continued discussing plans. He wanted to help as much as he could, but based on their situation, he didn’t think he could do much. It’ll probably take him a couple of weeks to fully recover, which might slow down their plan. He didn’t want to be a burden, but he might have to be one for some time.
“Ok, so Ink, you’ll go to inform the people and I’ll talk to Sci. Dream you should probably rest until we know you’re better and able to fight,” Blue concluded.
Ink and Dream gave a nod and returned to their rooms.
Yet, Dream was unsure about whether they’ll actually talk to Nightmare.