Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Tommy watches Dream with suspicion, the other more quiet than normal. The entire time he’d been here he was just sitting around, barely even watching him. Tommy even asked him about putting his items in the hole but Dream just shrugged and looked away. The blonde huffs, crossing his arms.

“Waht the fuck is up with you dickhead?”  asks Tommy and Dream’s head turns to him. Tommy internally groans when Dream basically ignores him, turning away from him.

“Nothing…” is all Dream says and Tommy rubs his eyes before getting back to modifying his tent. Another hour goes by and Dream has barely even moved. Tommy watches him, Ghostbur behind him talking about something. Dream looked… less formal than normal. His black cloak was buttoned oddly and the hood was almost falling off showing the world Dream’s dirty blonde hair. His mask sat over the entirety of his face as usual though. His axe laid next to him like it was thrown to the ground without any care at all. Tommy huffs, going to stand until Dream stands instead.

“I’m leaving.” Tommy blinks a few times as Dream walks off into the forest, quickly disappearing from sight. 

“Where is Dream going?” asks Ghostbur and Tommy narrows his eyes.

“I don’t know but he’s been acting pretty fuckin’ weird all day. I don’t like it.” Ghsotbur shrugs.

“Maybe he’s having a bad day?” Tommy grumbles.

“Somethings up and I’m going to figure it out.” Tommy grabs his Diamond axe, something he was sure Dream would blow up, and he runs after Dream. 

“Where the fuck could he have gone so damn quick,” mumbles Tommy, the blonde looking through the tree’s for any sign of the masked man. The first sign he’s close by is when he comes across a group of trees. The trunks of the trees are damaged by what looks like an axe in multiple different places. Some of the cuts are deeper than others and even the ground in some spots is cut like the swing was too wide. Tommy runs his hands over the tree and he swallows. He continues with more caution now, the masked man is clearly unhinged or extremely upset about something. Tommy notices how the cuts in the tree seem to be weaker and he stutters to a stop when his eyes land on Dream’s axe. The blade is dug deep into the ground, the handle sticking up and Tommy approaches, grabbing the end of the netherite weapon and tugging on it until it comes out of the ground. The trees return to normal after that and he walks through, holding Dream’s axe out instead of his Diamond one. Tommy reaches another open field similar to the one he’s currently stuck in and his eyes widen when they land on Dream. The dirty blonde’s black cape lays on the ground a few feet from the man and Tommy can hear a sound unsettlingly similar to sobs. He takes a few steps forward, and he can see Dream’s entire body shaking with the force of his own cries. Tommy has no idea why Dream of all people would be out here, crying and he honestly doesn’t know why he’s even approaching him. Tommy stops a few feet from him and he finds it so odd Dream hasn’t even acknowledged his presence, frankly, he doesn’t even think Dream is registering anything at the moment if his panicked breaths say anything. Tommy’s eyes widen when he sees the way Dream’s nails are cutting his skin, drops of blood meeting the ground. He’s scratching his arms, his nails cutting the skin in rough lines.

“Hey! Stop that!” Tommy rushes forward, grabbing Dream’s wrists. The action makes Dream yelp and his eyes snap up to meet Tommy’s eyes. Tommy is shocked to see Dream’s mask gone, one green and one murky eye meeting Tommy’s blue ones. The man’s eyes are glassy and tears still roll down his freckled cheeks. Dream’s eyebrows furrow and he shoves Tommy away before standing up and stumbling back. He grabs his mask and cloak before chucking a Pearl.

“Wait-!” tries Tommy and Dream’s already gone, leaving nothing, the only sign he was ever there being the crimson droplets of blood contrasting the soft green of the grass. 

Tommy wipes his forehead, admiring his work on his tent.

“It looks great Tommy!” says Ghsotbur, a smile on the ghost’s face. Tommy gives him a thumbs up, and then the sound of a portal gets their attention. He turns, his eyes landing on the sight of Dream’s familiar mask, only his mouth visible as always. His cloak is back on, but Tommy catches a quick glance at the bandages on his arms before Dream is looking straight at him. Dream walks over to a rock and he sits down, placing a crafting table down next to an anvil. Tommy eyes him the entire time he makes a few items before going to the anvil. Tommy sighs before approaching him, stopping a few feet from him. Tommy just stands there, unsure of what to say and Dream signs.

“What do you need Tommy?” The blonde nearly jumps at the sound of his voice. 

“Oh- uh- you uhm- left this yesterday,” says Tommy, holding Dream’s axe out to him. Dream eyes the weapon before reaching out and taking it, and Tommy’s eyes linger at the bandages on his arms.

“…Thank you Tommy.” Tommy notes that Dream sounds exhausted, and his hair seems to be a bit messy.

“Uhm… Are you like- okay?” Dream’s head turns to him.

“I’m fine.” Tommy scratches the back of his neck.

“You don't seem fine uh…”

“Well I am so fuck off,” snaps Dream and Tommy rolls his eyes.

“Okay so you were ‘fine’ yesterday when I found you in the field, hm?” Dream stiffens and Tommy crosses his arms.

“You were fine when you were scratching your arms raw?” Dream moves fast, grabbing the front of his shirt and pulling him close making Tommy yelp.

“I’d be wise to stop talking now.” Tommy raises his hands and smiles nervously at him and Dream releases him before walking away. Tommy swallows and some weird part of him is so curious about the man. No one knows anything about him. He barely shared about his life before the server, or where he was raised or born. He never talks about his past, and anytime he’s asked he avoids the topic or he’ll snap at you. He rarely even shows his skin, let alone his face. Always wearing long sleeve shirts with his fingerless gloves and black cargo pants with boots. The man is just unbelievably private, seeing him in such a vulnerable state honestly just looked so wrong and he felt the need to know why he was like that so, Tommy follows again. 

“Come on Dream! Why were you out there?!” Dream ignores him and Tommy continues to follow.

“WOULD YOU STOP FOLLOWING ME?!” yells Dream so suddenly it actually makes Tommy stumble backwards. 

“I wanna know what made you like that!” 

“WHY?! Why the fuck do you care?!”

“I DON'T KNOW MAN, YOU’RE ALWAYS SO SECRETIVE!”

“YEAH BECAUSE MY FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS DON’T CONCERN YOU!!” Tommy groans.

“God! I was just trying to be nice and see if you were okay but NO! You have to be an ASSHOLE!” Dream grits his teeth and turns walking away.

“Why don’t you go talk to your fucking besties instead of being fucking depressed.” Tommy raises an eyebrow when he sees Dream stumble.

“Don’t talk about them,” mutters Dream.

“Why not? They do something?” 

“God can you not shut up.” 

“Nope.”

“Well it’s none of your concern.”

“I’ll guess then.” Dream grumbles.

“They got hurt?” Dream doesn’t respond.

“They… got together?” Dream sighs in annoyance. 

“They die?” Dream stops walking. 

“They leave? Go missing?” Dream stands completely still.

“Did they-” a fist connects with his jaw and Tommy falls to the ground with a cry.

“What the hell?!” Tommy stops when he catches sight of the tear on Dream’s cheek.

“Fucking stop.” Dream sniffles before turning and walking away. Tommy lays there for a moment, cradling his cheek before standing up and following him. Dream walks away fast, the pain in his chest growing at the mention of them. More tears drip down his face and he reaches the side of a hill, a steep drop below and he falls to his knees at the edge. Dream throws his mask away and buries his face in his hands. Tommy reaches the same place and he trots over, sitting down a few feet from him. He subconsciously begins fiddling with Dream’s mask having picked it up on his way over. They sit there in silence, only the occasional sniffle from Dream.

“So uh, what happened man?” Dream sniffles and he looks up from his hands, though he’s careful in making sure his hood hides his face. 

“Fuckin… they left me.” Tommy looks over at him.

“Quackity told them I never gave a damn about them. They fucking- they just fucking believed him without a second thought. They both hate me- I don’t even know why. I dethroned George to protect him! I have enemies who would go after him, but NO! I apparently don’t fucking care about either of them and never have because that makes a whole bunch of fucking sense,” rants Dream. Tommy looks at his hands.

“So like, they hate you?”

“Yes, George asked me to say I hate him and Sapnap won’t even fucking look at me. All because Quackity, a guy they just became friends with like a few months ago said I never gave a damn. It makes me so fucking mad.”

“Yeah, those trees you murdered shows that.” Dream huffs and holds his hand out.

“What?”

“My mask Tommy, give it.” Tommy fumbles with it before handing it to him and Dream takes his hood off, turning away from Tommy and placing it back on his head. 

“Why do you even care anyway?” Tommy shrugs.

“I don’t know, guess I’ve just never seen you show that much emotion,” says Tommy with a chuckle and Dream rolls his eyes.

“Oh also, are you blind?” Dream looks at him.

“No I’m not fully blind Tommy, I’m half blind.”

“So how’d that happen?” 

“I’m not answering that question.”

“Oh come on!”

“No.”

“You’re no fun.” 

“No, I’m private.”

“Yeah, no fun.” Dream huffs in annoyance.

“Sorry for punching you, but you kinda deserved it.” Tommy’s head snaps to him.

“WHAT?!” 

“You did! You wouldn’t leave me alone, asshole!” 

“Well- shut up!” Dream laughs at him and Tommy crosses his arms.

“… I uh, I get being left by friends. Tubbo kinda did the same thing to me. So I uh I get it.” Dream looks over at him before sighing.

“Wow, we're a depressing pair,” mumbles Tommy and Dream shrugs and stands up.

“Let’s go.” Tommy follows and the two make their way back.

Dream comes through the portal, a bag of ancient debris on his shoulder. He walks towards Tommy’s tent.

“Yo Dream!” The dirty blonde looks to his right and Tommy waves before walking over to him.

“Hello Dream! I’ve missed you!” says Ghostbur. Dream smiles at him.

“Good evening both of you.” Tommy swings his axe over his shoulder.

“How’d it go?” Dream seems to deflate at his question and  Tommy chuckles nervously.

“Doesn’t matter, they didn’t even look at me so-” Dream lifts the bag of ancient debris, “i went mining.” Tommy’s eyes light up.

“THERE’S SO MUCH!” Dream rolls his eyes. 

“Come on, let's go.” Tommy and Ghostbur follow Dream back home, the blonde currently telling a story about nearly dying with Dream’s trident while he was gone.

“It was sick! I placed the water just right.” Dream chuckles.

“Don’t die using my items please.” Tommy gives a thumbs up and Tommy’s house comes into view. Ever since their little incident they got along better for some reason. It’s been two weeks since then. Ever since that day Dream rarely returns to the mainland often staying close by. He doesn’t blow up Tommy’s things anymore and actually goes with him when he mines and such, even going as far as to help. They ate together a lot as well. He’s gotten to know Dream better as well, the man isn’t the completely emotionless, cold bitch he came off as. He was funny and a bit of a dumbass at times. A good storyteller as well. He’d even helped Tommy build a small home the two shared at times. Tommy had his own room while Dream stuck to the couch. The masked man didn’t sleep often so he and Ghostbur often talked during the night to Tommy’s annoyance. Dream pushes the door open and walks over to the furnace. Tommy watches as Dream makes netherite ingots, laying them down on the table and by the end he had made about 6.

“Here,” says Dream, handing Tommy an ingot.

“Oh uh, I don’t know how to make netherite stuff, I usually just steal it.” Dream looks at him before pointing to the smithing table. 

“Go on over.” Tommy does just that and Dream appears a moment later.

“First things first, you put whatever piece of armor or weapon you have in the first slot,” instructs Dream and Tommy pulls out his axe, laying it down. 

“Next, place the ingot and then grab the hammer.” Tommy does so and then grabs the hammer and Dream takes it.

“Step back a bit.” Dream raises it before bringing it down onto the axe. He repeats this until the diamond axe is now a netherite one and he picks it up before swinging it around a few times. Tommy’s eyes light up when Dream hands it to him.

“If you lose that, I will kick you.” Tommy rolls his eyes.

“This is so cool! And I helped make it! It’s like my own!” Dream smiles and grabs the other ingots.

“Go gather some wood unless we still have some, I’ll make some food soon.” Tommy rushes out the door, excited to try his new axe and Dream watches him go with amusement. The masked man makes himself a new pickaxe having broken his in the nether on accident while he was stress mining. Dream lays the new tool down and makes another backup set of netherite armor and puts those in his ender chest before heading to the kitchen to make dinner. Tommy swings his axe, the blade colliding with the wood and he grabs the pieces before running back to the house. 

“Yo bitch I got wood.” 

“Yeah you took to long your foods getting cold.” Tommy walks over and begins eating while Dream sits back on the couch having already finished his steak. The rest of the night is filled with semi hostile bickering, horrible jokes on Tommy’s part and then Ghsotbur’s rambling. Dream yawns and looks over at Tommy, the blonde looking like he’s about to fall asleep.

“Go to bed Tommy,” says Dream, poking Tommy’s cheek to wake him up and Tommy grumbles before heading upstairs. Dream waves when he hears Tommy mumble a ‘goodnight’ and the blonde lays down on the couch, laying his mask on the coffee table before letting himself fall asleep for once.

Tubbo taps his fingers on the table while he waits for the others to show up. L’manburg’s been worried about Tommy, none of them have been able to even get close due to the fact Dream is always there now. He’s always present and it’s gotten even worse because he hangs around at night, walking around the area like a guard. They needed to get Tommy out of there, back here, and hopefully take Dream out in the process. Tommy had told Ranboo with their book system what Dream was doing, blowing up his stuff, taking things, threatening him. That was weeks ago at this point and who knows what other things Dream could be doing now. Tubbo looks up when Quackity walks into the room followed by Fundy, Sapnap, and George. 

“What are they here for?” asks Tubbo and Quackity grins.

“They’re helping us, they’ve also been victims of Dream’s manipulation, so they want to get back at him. Sam should be joining us as well and maybe a few others.” Tubbo nods. 

“Well, we’re definitely going to need all the help we can get,” says Tubbo and they nod.

“And Ranboo?” As if on cue Ranboo stumbles inside the room.

“S-Sorry I’m late,” says the hybrid.

“It’s fine Ranboo.” Sapnap steps forward.

“So, what do we know about the exile location and what’s currently happening to Tommy?” asks Sapnap. Quackity clears his throat.

“Ranboo had been communicating with Tommy a while back, leaving books in a hidden chest under Tommy’s bed in his tent, though he hasn’t been able to contact him due to the fact Dream is apparently there 24/7 at this point,” says Quackity. Sapnap nods.

“Like he said, Ranboo and Tommy were talking and apparently Dream was being pretty cruel. Tommy would get items he worked hard to get and stuff and then Dream would make him throw it all into a whole and then blow it up. Other things as well, like threatening him and worst of all he would pretend to be his friend,” adds Tubbo.

“Geez, he really has no standards,” mumbles George and Tubbo nods. 

“That was weeks ago, no one has even seen Tommy so we’re worried Dream could have him contained somewhere,” says Fundy and they nod.

“We need to take out Dream then get Tommy, maybe get them to separate? Just something, we need to have people watching all the time for Tommy ever being alone. That’ll be our chance to strike, taking out Dream first and then grab Tommy. Restraining Dream would be the best bet, then we can take him back here maybe? To pay for his crimes?” offers Sapnap and Tubbo nods.

“That’d be the best idea, now we should set up who’s going to be on watch first.” They eventually end up on pairs who will watch. Sapnap and Quackity are first, then it goes to Quackity and Fundy, then Tubbo and Ranboo. Tubbo nods and looks up at them.

“Okay, let’s do this.”

Chapter Text

Dream opens the door to Tommy’s room and trots over to the sleeping teenager. 

“Tommy, get up, you asked me to show you how to use a trident.” Tommy grumbles, turning over and Dream rolls his eyes.

“I’ll let you try my mask on if you get up.” Tommy sits up, so fast Dream nearly jumps.

“REALLY?!” exclaims the younger and Dream sighs.

“Fine, only if you’re down in like 10 minutes.” Dream huffs out a laugh when he hears Tommy get out of bed immediately once he leaves. Dream walks back down the stairs and sees Ghostbur. 

“Good morning ghostbur,” greets Dream with a smile and Ghostbur waves.

“Hi Dream! How did you sleep?” Dream shrugs.

“I only slept for like an hour, but it was a good sleep.” Ghostbur huffs.

“You should sleep more!” Dream chuckles.

“I don’t need to sleep, I’m fine.” They break off into quiet conversation until Tommy enters the room.

“Let’s go!” yells the boy rushing out the door and Dream follows. Dream gets in front and leads Tommy to a lake.

“Why’re we at a lake?” asks Tommy and Dream pulls his trident out.

“Because if you fall, I’d prefer you not fall to your death.” Tommy shrugs.

“Before we start you said I could try your mask!” Dream looks at him.

“I still have no idea why you’ve been so persistent with trying it, you won’t like it.” Tommy rolls his eyes.

“I don’t care now, hand it over.” Dream takes his mask off and tosses it to Tommy. The teen catches it and places it on his face though he’s shocked because he can’t see a damn thing.

“Wait, what the fuck.” Dream’s familiar wheeze rings through the air at his reaction and Tommy takes it off.

“What the fuck?! Why can’t I see anything!?” Dream wheezes again before snatching his mask back. 

“It’s a secret,” says Dream with a cheeky grin.

“I want to punch you.” Dream wipes his eyes and looks at him.

“You couldn’t punch me if you tried.”

“Is that a challenge, dickhead?” Dream smirks. 

“It’s not, but it can be.” Tommy glares at him before lunging at the older and Dream dodges with ease.

“Okay, that was actually sad what the hell,” deadpans Dream and Tommy whips his head to the other.

“You’re an asshole.” 

“Takes one to know one, now, do you want to know how to use this trident without dying or what?” Tommy huffs and nods. Dream tosses it over and Tommy catches it. 

“Okay, raise it and point it where you want to go-” Dream is cut off by Tommy flying into the sky next to him with a shout.

“He’s going to die I swear to god,” mutters Dream. He looks up to see Tommy land in the water.

“WHY DOES IT LAUNCH RANDOMLY?!” screams Tommy and Dream has to hold back another laugh.

“Because you aren’t doing it right dumbass.” Tommy returns to land and throws it at Dream.

“Fine, then you do it.” Dream hums and shrugs his cloak off, setting his mask carefully on it. The dirty blonde pops his neck before raising the trident and stepping into the water. Tommy gawks when Dream launches himself on command into the air. The dirty blonde twists in the air and lands right back next to Tommy with a water bucket. 

“It’s not that hard.” Tommy tries to punch him again.

“WHY DID YOU TRY TO PUNCH ME?!” 

“BECAUSE IT’S NOT EASY!” Dream rolls his eyes.

“Just focus, you’re too excited, focus on where you want to go and when you want to go.” Dream hands it back to him and Tommy takes it.

“Try it, just focus on the trident and the water.” Tommy nods and takes a deep breath. Dream watches him. 

“Okay, uh what do I do now?” 

“Will it to go, just like, you know this is hard to explain right?” Tommy shrugs.

“Yeh just, tell it to go kinda?” Tommy swallows and raises it up, and he’s suddenly brought into the sky. Tommy blinks and looks down, before falling. Dream grins and places water down for him to land in.

“YO I DID IT!” Dream laughs.

“Good job, now, if I was right, it should be raining soon. Go practice that more.” Tommy rushes back out and Dream watches him fly up and move across the lake occasionally. Dream feels a drop of rain hit his cheek.

“Tommy, get back here!” yells Dream and Tommy lands a few feet from him.

“Yo this is fuckinh awesome! I need to get one of these!” exclaims the younger and Dream shrugs.

“They’re not too hard to get, I could probably take you to get one.” Tommy grins at him.

“Pog fucking champ!” Dream rolls his eyes and grabs his cloak, pulling it onto his shoulder and pulling on his hood.

“Gimme,” says Dream and Tommy hands it to him. Dream points it into the sky and flies up, but instead he flies through the air a few times, his cloak mostly protecting him from the rain. He lands right back where he started and Tommy is practically bouncing with excitement. Dream doesn’t even say anything before giving it to him and he’s already gone. Dream watches him go around the sky and cringes when he nearly runs into a tree. 

“Be careful dumbass!” yells Dream and Tommy yells ‘fuck you’ back and Dream rolls his eyes. Dream turns away and grabs his mask off the ground only to see Tommy is nowhere in sight, and panic sparks in him.

“Tommy!?” yells Dream and he looks up to see Tommy going straight up.

“Oh fuck,” mutters Dream and it does take long to see Tommy falling, his scream echoing through the air. Dream thinks he’s fine, he’ll just use the trident until the tool lands in the ground a few feet from him and Dream just stares at it for a moment before he runs, grabbing the trident and running towards him. The rain makes trying to see him much harder than it should be, so he doesn’t see him until his yelling gets louder and he looks up to see Tommy’s white shirt. Dream flies through the air and he grabs Tommy, pulling the younger to his chest and Dream groans when he’s still yelling.

“Stop yelling into my fucking ear!” yells Dream and Tommy grabs onto Dream, gripping the back of his shirt and Dream holds him close to his chest. He decides to just fly back with the trident and does just that. Tommy doesn’t loosen his grip the entire way back and they land on the ground in front of the house. Tommy immediately lets go and Dream raises an eyebrow at him.

“You good?” Tommy nods trying to catch his breath.

“Why didn’t you tell me I’d fall if I went too high?” asks Tommy and Dream shrugs.

“I didn’t think you’d fly into the sky.” Tommy huffs.

“Thank you for helping me,” mumbles Tommy and Dream smirks.

“Awww, you're welcome!” teases Dream and Tommy rolls his eyes while Dream laughs at him. 

“Where’s your mask?” asks Tommy and Dream goes to grab it from his inventory.

“Well shit I must’ve left it when you were being an idiot.” Tommy immediately starts yelling curse words and Dream ignores him. 

“I need to go to the mainland, so I’ll go get it when I go.”

“Why not just like, go now, it’d be easier.” Dream shrugs.

“Eh, I suppose so, you make dinner this time then.” Tommy goes to protest.

“Before you protest, remember who just saved your ass Mr. one life.” Tommy huffs and Dream smiles, giving a wave before he disappears into the woods.

Dream walks through the portal into the nether, making sure his mask is on right while he walks on the path Tommy made. He walks completely unaware of the people watching his every move from hidden spots in the walls of the hellish realm. Tubbo looks at the portal and nods to everyone he’s with.

“Contact the others, stick to the plan. Me, Ranboo, and Fundy will go get Tommy, Sapnap, George, Sam and Quackity will take out Dream,” directs Tubbo and Quackity gives a thumbs up and Ranboo nods. Quackity watches Tubbo and Ranboo run through the portal and he contacts the others. Sapnap, George, Sam and Fundy show up minutes later in full netherite with their weapons out. They go through the portal getting in positions while they wait for Dream. The dirty blonde grabs what he needs from the community house and jogs back to the portal. He makes his way through the nether pretty quickly, not wanting to make Tommy wait too long. He steps through the portal and the first thing he sees is a blade coming straight for his face. Dream pulls out his axe and blocks the hit, kicking the person back. Dream lowers his weapon and sees it was Quackity who attacked him. He snarls remembering what Quackity told Sapnap and George. 

“Quackity,” spits Dream and Quackity glares at him.

“We’re going to need you to come with us Dream,” says Sam and Dream turns sharply only for George, and Sapnap to step out next, weapons raised. Dream suddenly regrets not wearing armor like normal. Ghostbur said he didn’t like armor, so he never wore it here. It’s sitting back at the house in the enderchest. 

“Why’s that?” asks Dream, his axe out and ready to strike if necessary. 

“Because,” says Sapnap and Dream's heart stutters, the cold look in Sapnap’s eyes makes his chest ache.

“You’re dangerous, and you need to be taken care of.” Dream swallows. He’s armorless, doesn’t have all he’d need for a fight with everyone here, and he’s cornered. He could go back into the nether, but again, one slip up can end him without armor or potions. Dream grips his teeth and he looks at Quackity. He’s the weakest. Dream dashes towards him, axe raised and Quackity barely has time to use his shield before Dream’s dug his axe into it. 

“SHIT-! GET HIM!” yells Quackity and Dream runs, ignoring the arrow that buries itself in his shoulder. Dream runs across the open field by Tommy’s old tent and he jumps into the trees, vanishing amongst the branches. The others walk around and Dream covers his mouth to hide his breathing. He saw Sapnap had pearls on his belt, if he could just grab them. Dream’s eyes widen when his foot slips and he falls right out of the tree he’s in landing with a thump. Dream swears his shoulder is dislocated because of the rock he just landed on, but the people running towards him are more of a worry at the moment. Dream scrambles up, just barely dodging the sword aimed for his stomach. Dream grunts, yeah his shoulder is definitely dislocated. Dream’s always been a fast runner, manhunts helped with that, so he has a slight advantage. Dream nearly falls when Sam gets in front of him, the particles of a speed potion in his trail. He’d normally turn, and get away, but the mud isn’t in his favor and he blocks Sam’s attack with a grunt, but George comes up behind him and Dream turns, using his arm to not be hit in the torso, blood splattering. The dirty blonde is basically sandwiched between them so he drops low and sweeps his leg, knocking George over and Sam stabs him in the shoulder with a dagger. Dream rips said dagger out for his arm and jams it into a space Sam’s armor doesn’t cover which happens to be the side of his kneecap and Sam yells. Dream dashes away again only for a fist to collide with his face, Sapnap right next to him. He barely gets time to recover before another fist is slammed into his face, but Dream recovers faster this time and dodges the next attack. 

“Just surrender, Dream!” yells Sapnap and Dream grits his teeth. He doesn’t- he doesn’t want to hurt him. He still cares about Sapnap even if he doesn’t care about him. Dream doesn’t hear George get behind him, the other had s always been good at stealth. The sword cuts his side and Dream gasps, his hand flying to his side. Dream snarls and turns, grabbing George’s sword by the blade, ignoring the way it cuts his hands, and he yanks it from the older much to George’s surprise. Dream kicks him in the chest and throws the sword, just barely missing Sapnap’s shoulder. He stands back up and straightens himself.

“Okay fucking stop it, I want a fucking reason on why you’re attacking me,” says Dream, holding his axe out as defense. Sapnap stands up and George does the same.

“We’re rescuing Tommy from you,” spits Sapnap. Dream falters, his eyes low wide under his mask. 

“What?” George scoffs.

“Don’t play dumb, we know what you’re doing to him. He told Ranboo about everything. Blowing up his items and threatening him, pretending to be his friend.” Dream’s mouth goes completely dry. Tommy… told Ranboo that? But he- he hasn’t done that in weeks and he apologized and Tommy said it was okay. Why- why would Tommy do that? Dream’s lost in his own thoughts he doesn’t hear Quackity comes up behind until the backside of an axe connects with his head and then it all goes dark.

Tommy taps his foot impatiently. Dream’s taking far too long and Ghostbur wasn’t even here now, so he was completely alone. Dream was just getting a few books or something from the community house, it shouldn’t be taking him this long! Tommy jumps when he hears footsteps and he smiles until the door opens and his face falls. Tubbo is standing in the doorway with Ranboo and Fundy. There’s a smile on Tubbo’s face.

“Tommy!” exclaims Tubbo and he runs in, hugging Tommy. The blonde just looks at him, feelings of betrayal settling into his gut and he pushes Tubbo away.

“Why- why are you here? Where’s Dream?” asks Tommy and Tubbo looks hurt by the question. 

“We’ve taken care of Dream, you can stop pretending now,” says Fundy, the fox hybrid smiling at him.

“W-What? I’m not pretending! What the fuck are you talking about!?” yells Tommy and the three back up.

“T-Tommy, you t-told me that he was doing stuff to you,” says Ranboo and Tommy’s brows furrow.

“No! No! He’s my friend! Get out of my house! You guys betrayed me!” yells Tommy and Tubbo nods to Fundy. They planned in case Dream had managed to get into Dream’s head. 

“Tommy… Dream’s not your friend. He’s manipulating you!” Tommy can’t even believe what he’s hearing at this point and what the fuck does ‘ taken care of Dream’ fucking mean? Tommy glares at them.

“Bullshit,” spits Tommy.

“He exiled you Tommy!” says Ranboo and Tommy turns to him.

“No! You exiled me!” yells Tommy.

“Because Dream didn’t give me a choice!” Tommy goes to argue, but Fundy throws a potion and Tommy goes to cover his nose and his mouth, but he’s not fast enough and his vision goes black. 

Dream wakes up, a groan escaping his lips. It’s dark wherever he is, or we’ll it’s dim. Dream swallows, a sharp pain in his side making him gasp sharply and he goes to touch it until he realizes he can’t move his hands. Dream looks behind him to see rope tying his wrists together, the rope also wrapped around a metal rod and then he notices he’s in a small…box? Cage? He knows he’s in iron bars. A cloth is over the iron bars though, but he can hear voices. He’s struggling to stay conscious, his vision is going in and out. Damn concussions, he can still feel the fucking dry blood on the side of his face and then he realizes he doesn’t have his mask on. He doesn’t have his mask on . Dream feels panic set in immediately and he begins pulling against his bonds. His shoulder aches still, the only wound that was actually dealt with is the wound on his side from where George cut him. Dream hisses when the cover is lifted up letting sunlight in. 

“Oh, you’re finally awake,” says Sam and Dream snarls at him. He feels like an animal in a cage and he hates it. 

“Seems like you’re alert, we aren’t ready yet, so don’t do anything stupid or we’ll have to put an end to your life earlier than we want to.” Dream swallows thickly and another voice comes from somewhere.

“Well, I need to go, you best behave.” Dream stays dead silent and Sam backs out, dropping the thick sheet again. Dream can’t help, but feel dread settle into his gut. He remembers what was said, Tommy told them he was hurting him. A painful ache settles into his chest again. He closes his eyes. Just another friend who betrays him. He ignores the tears that want to roll down his face.

“Sam,” calls Dream quietly and no one answers.

“Sam!” calls Dream louder this time. No one answers again and he can’t hold the tears back. They drip down his face and Dream sniffles. He jumps when light comes back into the small space. He looks up, horrified that Sam has seen him crying until his eyes meet red and green eyes. 

“…I- uh did you need something?” asks Ranboo and Dream tries his best to wipe his tears away. 

“Can I have my mask back?” asks Dream meekly, his voice quiet and his shoulders slouch. He wants nothing more than to be able to hide at this moment in time. Ranboo looks around the area and then back at Dream. 

“I don’t have it on me, but I know where it is. I’ll go get it for you.” Dream sniffles.

“I didn’t hurt Tommy,” mumbles Dream and Ranboo swallows.

“I’ll get your mask.” Dream watches him leave and he curls into a ball the best he can, pulling his knees to his chest. 

Tommy gasps, shooting up in bed. He doesn’t know where he is. It’s- is this Phil’s house? Tommy looks around, and comes to the conclusion that it’s definitely Phil’s house. Tommy swallows and nearly jumps when the door opens. Tubbo walks in.

“Hey Tommy…” says the teen and Tommy eyes him. He didn’t even listen to him when he denied their words and that got him no where. Dream had told him a story once, he said it was always good to play along if you’re in a situation you can’t get out of with words and that’s what he’s going to do now.

“Where’s Dream? He- he can’t know I’m out of exile- he’ll- he’ll get mad!” exclaims Tommy and Tubbo moves closer.

“No, it’s okay Tommy, we dealt with him. He’s not going to hurt you okay?” Tommy swallows, but nods and Tubbo smiles at him. 

“Is that why you kept fighting against us back in that house? Because you were scared of Dream?” Tommy feels sick, but he nods anyway.

“I’m sorry you had to go through that, we were trying to get you out weeks ago but then he started being there, so much like all the time and we could never get close.” Tubbo offers him a soft smile.

“I’m glad we got you back.” Tommy gives him the best fake smile he can.

“I’m… I'm happy to be back.” Tubbo smiles brightly at him.

“Why don’t we show you around!” Tommy shrugs. 

“We added a few things since you’ve been gone, and you can be there for the sentencing!” Tommy’s brows furrowed. 

“Sentencing?” Tubbo nods.

“Dream needs to pay for his crimes against our country, and for what he did to you. He’s going to be executed later today.” Tommy’s eyes widen.

“What time is that supposed to be?” 

“Hmm, maybe a few hours? It’ll be nighttime if that’s the answer you're looking for. Why do you ask?” Tommy fumbles over his words for a moment.

“I uh- uhm I’m just kinda nervous is all, I might take another nap.” Tubbo nods.

“Take all the time you need, we can take you on a tour once you wake up, okay?” Tommy smiles at him and Tubbo stands to leave.

“Sleep well Tommy! I’m glad to have you back!” Tommy waves bye and his face falls once Tubbo leaves. Panic claws at his stomach and then he remembers that he’s in Phil’s house. Tommy sees a communicator on the table in the room he’s in and he scrambles out of bed to get it. Tommy types to Philza immediately.

Tommyinnit whispers to Philza: PHIL!

…

Philza whispers to Tommyinnit: yes???

Tommy smiles when Phil answers. 

Tommyinnit whispers to Philza: Where are you right now Phil? 

Philza whispers to Tommyinnit: I’m with Techno, why?

Tommy cringes at Techno’s name, but shakes it off. Techno could be helpful here. 

Tommyinnit whispers to Philza: can you meet me at your house? It’s really important, like, someone will die if you don’t.

Philza whispers to Tommyinnit: …okay. I’ll be there.

Tommyinnit whispers to Philza: bring Techno, if I’m not here just wait for me, I’m going to get someone else to help me. 

Phil sends a thumbs up and Tommy shoves it into his pocket before grabbing an invis pot and chugging it. 

“Okay Tommy, you can do this.” Tommy slips out the door and is greeted by the sight of L’manburg. He also notes the anvil hanging from a rope in the sky, but he shrugs it off as nothing and runs towards the main SMP. Once he’s out of L’manburg he picks up his pace now that he can be more noisy. It’s been a while since he’s been to the main SMP, all the Christmas stuff looks nice. Tommy refocuses and nearly cheers when he sees Punz’s house. He skids to a stop and bangs on the door with his fist.

“Punz! Mother fucker open the door!” yells Tommy and he presses the side of his face against it, but he doesn’t hear anything, so he hits the door harder.

“Uh, Tommy??” questions Punz and he turns to the other. 

“Punz! Oh thank fuck!” Punz raises an eyebrow at him. 

“Why are you here? Dream said I should kill you if I see you here.” Tommy’s eyes widen.

“WOAH! Okay! Me and Dream are friends now! See, Sapnap and Gogs completely abandoned him, SO! We became pals!! I’d say ask him, but he’s in a bit of a pickle right now, which is why I’m here!” 

“Tommy, get to the point.”

“Okay, so, uh L’manburg, Sapnap, Sam and George kinda attacked Dream because they thought Dream was being a bitch to me, and he was for like the first three days of exile, but then we became friends. But they thought he was hurting me, and they came and sorta attacked him I think? I’m not sure, but either way the most important thing is that they’re planning on killing him! So! I came here to ask you for your assistance since I know you two are friends!” finishes Tommy and to say Punz looks pissed is an understatement.

“They’re going to what? ” Tommy chuckles nervously. 

“Yeah! They’re gonna kill him! Now if you’re going to help we need to hurry back because I’m supposed to meet Techno and Phil at his house in L’manburg.” Punz snarls.

“Of course I’m going to help, he’s one of my best friends.” Tommy grins. Then let’s get going. Punz pulls out a stack of pearls and throws them to Tommy. The two pearl back to Phil’s house and Tommy grins when he sees both Techno and Phil there.

“Oh thank god, you’re here.” Phil looks at Tommy then Punz.

“Why did you call us here Tommy?” asks Techno, his voice cold and Tommy swallows.

“I was in exile right-”

“They’re going to execute Dream, will you help us stop it or not?” asks Punz and Tommy huffs.

“Wait what?” asks techno.

“Why the hell would they do that?” questions Phil.

“They have a complete misunderstanding of what was happening in exile, they thought he was hurting me even though he wasn’t, we are friends, and they think he was hurting me and now they’re using him wronging l’manburg in the past to justify killing him. I don’t want him to die,” explains Tommy and Techno and Phil look at each other.

“What do you want us to do?”

Ranboo walks down the stairs back up to where Dream is being held. He looks around before lifting the curtain and he sees that the dirty blonde has passed out, a feeling of guilt hitting his stomach when he sees the dried tear tracks on his face. Ranboo swallows and moves to the back of the cage, he lifts the curtain and reaches through the bars, placing the mask over his face and buckling it. He makes sure it’s secure before heading away from the spot and towards Phil’s house. The older man had some healing pots somewhere, so he figures he’ll at least heal the man before they kill him. Ranboo pushes the door open and he blinks a few times seeing Tommy, Technoblade, Punz, and Philza all together and he turns to run.

“Ranboo, wait please?” pleads Tommy and Ranboo swallows, looking at him.

“Can you come inside please, just- can you listen to me?” Ranboo debates his choices before leaving and he puts a foot inside before fully entering the home.

“Oh thank fuck,” mutters Punz and Phil elbows him.

“I know you guys don’t believe me, but Dream isn’t a bad guy. He’s my friend. Just today he taught me how to use a trident properly. And yesterday he taught me how to make netherite stuff. The house you found me in? He helped build that for me and he stays over most nights which is why you see him there almost 24/7. He’s lonely, Sapnap and George ditched him because they’re shitty. We get along, he’s always been secretive, but I know him better than I know some people on here, he’s not a bad guy, well he’s actually a piece of shit sometimes but either way. Please just trust me on this okay?” Ranboo swallows. Dream had said he hadn’t done anything and Tommy wouldn’t feel the need to do this would he? Especially now that they caught Dream? Ranboo looks at him and he nods hesitantly.

“I- I trust you,” says Ranboo and Tommy grins.

“Pog! Join our team!” Ranboo gives a smile and walks over nervously, joining the group. They all jump when a voice rings though a microphone.

“Welcome everyone! Tonight we’ll be judging someone who’s wronged this country too many times to count and hurt one of our most loyal citizens.” They all rush to a window and look outside. Only then does it click on why that anvil is tied up there. They watch Sam pull a dark cloth off a box shape and Tommy’s eyes widen with horror when it reveals Dream. His hands restrained behind his back, and curled up in a defensive position. Tubbo looks down at Dream before turning back to the microphone. 

“Let’s begin.”

Chapter Text

Dream’s eyes blink open and he’s still under the cloth, but he can hear a voice next to him. It sounds so loud to him and Dream hisses quietly. Dream’s head snaps up when he realizes he has his mask on and he silently notes to thank Ranboo if he ever gets the chance to see him again. Dream swallows and his eyes widen when he sees feet appear then the cover is ripped off the cage and he hisses at the light. It’s dusk, the stars setting in the sky and he looks up, his eyes widen at the sight of the anvil swaying slightly in the wind. 

“Oh fuck,” mumbles Dream and he pulls against the ropes. Dream fights and pulls against them, and he can feel the blood dripping down his hands.

“Oh fuck me,” whispers Dream. He’s zoned out the voice for the most part until he hears a certain name. 

“Tommy has been a citizen of L’manburg for a long time, this man has hurt him. So for the people from the Dream SMP listen to his cruel crimes.” Dream looks out amongst the crowd and he sees people who weren’t there before there. People from his SMP was there. Dream swallows.

“He got Tommy exiled, and after that he hurt him. He would blow up the items Tommy worked for. He would threaten to harm him if he didn’t listen. He would manipulate Tommy into thinking that Dream was his friend. He was manipulating him. He’s hurt this nation and its people and it’s now time for him to pay.” The realization he’s probably going to die sets in. No ones going to help him and if anyone in the crowd wanted to anyone here would murder them before they got anywhere. Sapnap and George hated him for stupid reasons and Tommy… Tommy betrayed him. He hates it all. He hates being hurt like this. It hurts so much. Dream watches Quackity walk up to the podium where the lever is, the other smirking at him the entire time. It’s useless to beg or plead, he’s not going to do that, his own pride and dignity stops him from doing it. Dream looks up as the rope snaps and he watches as it gets closer and closer, the fear growing every second. A loud clang rings through the air as the anvil makes contact. He slams his eyes shut and waits from the impact though it never comes and when he looks up there’s a cobble block above him. Dream stares at it before a figure appears next to his cage. Tommy stands there and he looks pissed. 

“You are all fucking monsters,” spits Tommy and Dream stares at him.

“You we’re all just going to fucking watch a person get squashed by a fucking anvil?! What the fuck is wrong with all of you!?” yells Tommy and Tubbo approaches him.

“Tommy, you’re confused, he’s not your fr-”

“SHUT UP TUBBO!” Dream nearly flinches at how loud his voice is.

“He is my fucking friend! All that shit you say he’s done is bullshit! He only did that for like two fucking days! The past like- three weeks have just been me and him hanging out! The book I gave to Ranboo was from ages ago you pricks! He’s my friend and I’m not going to let you murder him.” Dream actually feels tears well in his eyes at Tommy’s words. 

“Someone please restrain Tommy, it seems more damage was done than we thought,” says Tubbo and Quackity flips his axe in his hand.

“Stand down Tommy.” Timmy snarls.

“Fuck you.” Just as he says those words Phil flies down and attacks Quackity, their blades colliding. After that all hell breaks loose. Techno and Punz join the fight holding off Sapnap and George. Tommy looks at Dream and rushes over.

“Hey there Dream, what’s up with you?” asks Tommy nervously as he tries to get the rope off.

“Oh I’m doing great, definitely wasn’t nearly murdered,” answered Dream sarcastically and Tommy huffs.

“Tommy, get the anvil off the stone once you're done, I can just crawl out.” Tommy nods and he snaps the ropes, his brows furrowing at the sight of his bloodied wrists. Dream huffs and stands up. Tommy grabs his pickaxe and begins to push the anvil off. Dream hears the sound of a crossbow going off and he grabs the arrow mid air just before it hits Tommy’s shoulder.

“Okay Tommy, I know it’s hard, but maybe push a little harder?” says Dream, anxiety clawing at him. Tommy yells in frustration until he feels another set of hands grab the pickaxe and he looks up to see Ranboo pushing as well and together they manage to shove it off the top. The moment they mine the block above Dream, the dirty blonde hops out and grabs Tommy’s axe from his belt. 

“Dream! Get out of here!” yells Punz and Dream nods.

“You two, let’s go.” They both follow him when Dream takes off. Tommy and Ranboo trail behind him, and they vanish into the forest behind L’manburg. Dream skids to a stop.

“I think we’re in the clear,” mumbles Dream and Tommy let’s out a shout.

“Let‘a fucking go!” he yells and Dream laughs at his antics. Ranboo fidgeting nervously with his hands gets Dream’s attention.

“Hey Ranboo,” says Dream and the enderman hybrid jumps.

“Uhm y-yeah?”

“Thank you for getting me my mask.” 

“Oh it wasn’t a p-problem. I’m glad I could help,” says the other with a small smile.

“This was certainly a wild ride,” mutters Dream, and Tommy hums.

“I can’t believe everyone there was just going to watch someone die, that’s so fucked!” Dream nods.

“Well, a large majority of people on this server are pretty fucked, including me,” says Dream. The dirty blonde freezes before shoving Ranboo out of the way just as an arrow whizzes by them. Dream’s eyes widen when he sees Sapnap and George, weapons out and ready to fire.

“Just surrender Dream, and leave Tommy and Ranboo alone.” Tommy scowls.

“I didn’t hurt either of them, you have no idea what you’re talking about,” retorts Dream and they approach.

“Let Tommy go, and come quietly.” Dream scowls.

“You aren’t getting near either of them, and I’ll be damned if you’re going to stop me,” spits Dream and they glare at him.

“A fight it is.”