Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

An heir.

That’s all what Sunday convinced himself that this was.

Just the creation of his heir and nothing more.

He refused to admit it was anything more. He couldn’t admit it was anything more. After all, what would the Oak Family, what would all of Penacony think about him falling so deeply in love, he wanted to raise a child with his partner.

So that wasn’t the case. It wasn’t.

He wasn’t a skilled Dreamweaver. But Gallagher was. Despite being from the Bloodhound Family he had an astounding skill at crafting Memory Zone entities. And he intended to use that skill to craft Sunday’s heir. The cost? They both had to give a small piece of themselves. Sunday already had something in mind, having pulled a few of his own feathers from his head. He never knew what Gallagher gave. The only answer he ever got was him jokingly saying he gave a year or so of his life. Maybe there was some truth to that. But he wasn’t going to pry. When the day they agreed on came, Sunday walked into his parlor not knowing what to expect. He found Gallagher sitting in one of the chairs, smiling.

“You ready, Day?”

Sunday nodded before pulling out his own chair and sitting down.

“Enlighten me. How does this work?”

“Heh. Well, to put simply, we’re just going to will your heir into existence.”

He held up one of Sunday’s feathers. Both of them stared for a moment before Gallagher spoke again.

“Tell me. What do you want out of this heir?”

“Well, I would hope they would be a Halovian like myself, as they are my heir. I expect them learn the teachings I was taught as well as-”

“Day, that’s not how it works. I can’t craft them with what you expect. I want to know what you want for them.”

“That is what I want. I don’t know why-”

The look Gallagher gave him was all the proof that he wasn’t buying it. And perhaps Sunday was fooling himself as well. He reached below the surface, past the answers he was supposed to give. And grasped something deeper within. He looked down to his hands on his lap.

“I…I want them to never live through a Stellaron disaster as I have.”

A smile appeared on Gallagher’s face. It would seem that was the right answer.

“Good. Keep going.”

Sunday considered again, reaching again into a place he was told to never look into. Yet with that first thought spoken, more slowly came flowing forth.

“I want them to live a life free of tragedy. I don’t want them to have to make the near impossible choices that I have. They do not deserve that.”

As antithetical to what an heir was, he wanted this child, his child to become nothing like him. It was strange. But it felt right. Sunday’s gaze shifted to the feather between Gallagher’s fingers. It was beginning to shimmer with light. He felt excitement rise in him. The words kept spilling out, a smile appearing on his face as well.

“I want to teach them how to be kind, how to welcome all with open arms. I want them to pursue the dreams and aspirations they desire instead of the ones given to them by someone else.”

The feather glowed brighter and brighter. Gallagher now practically beaming then chimed in.

“Might as well throw my desires out there too.” 

He looked at the feather.

“I want them to find an identity that’s completely their own.”

He laughed a bit and shook his head. Before he took a deep breath and continued.

“I don’t want them to be defined by their attachments to anyone else. I want them to write their own story, craft their own fate and not have a set end to it. I want their life to be constructed on something more solid than a single purpose. I want there to be no other reason for their existence other than them existing makes the universe just a little brighter.”

He gave one last desire.

“I just want them to be real.”

The bluntness of it was perhaps what encouraged Sunday to give his final desire as well. The one he kept buried so deeply.

“They say if one wants something to love them unconditionally, they get a pet. I…want to love something unconditionally.”

That was what did it. The feather, now coated in a brilliant white light, seemed to slip out of Gallagher’s grasp and floated down to the table they were sitting at. The moment it touched the wood of it, a shape began to manifest out of it. A body, arms, legs, hair, and much to Sunday’s delights, wings and a halo. When the light vanished, in its place was a baby, asleep on the table. A boy with brown hair like Gallagher, but was a Halovian like Sunday. Carefully, almost afraid he would shatter on his touch, Sunday took the baby in his arms.

He was beautiful in a way Sunday never thought a living creature could be. That same desire he said into the air echoed in his mind again. He wanted to love this child unconditionally. He wanted to shield them from all the miseries of the world, wanted to care for them unlike how he cared for anything else.

He then felt Gallagher wrap an arm around his shoulder. Sunday looked up to see him smiling at both him and the baby. He didn’t say anything at first, just continued to smile. Sunday could tell. He was proud. Proud of how far they come, proud of what they created together. Then a look crossed his face.

“Y’know…there’s a name in my language, Nevan. I thought you might like it.”

“Oh? And what would it mean?”

“Little saint.”

Sunday was about to cry. It was perfect. Perfect for this little ray of light. Perfect for this being that was more good than anything else he had seen. Before breaking down entirely into sobs, he managed to utter one thing.

“Nevan…let the light of our Aeon shine on you…and protect you forever…”

Chapter Text

Gallagher didn’t really know what to expect after Nevan was born. He never raised a “normal” kid, so raising a dreamscape entity was even further into uncharted territory. Now, the issue wasn’t learning strange things about Halovian’s that he didn’t know. If anything that was more surprising. And he saw the humor in finding out things like his son being able to hiss, or turn his head nearly all the way around like an owl. He chalked that up to just being a part of being a new parent to a non-human.

No, what he didn’t expect was the things outside of his own parenting. Namely everything surrounding Sunday and how he was raised. Or rather, the man who raised him.

It started one day while the two were just going about their routines. They had almost gotten into a rhythm. They both were beginning to enjoy the way they would attempt to do anything as they planned, only to have it all turned on its head by their son.

And that’s when their routine was disrupted in another way.

A loud, harsh caw was heard nearby and Sunday froze. At first Gallagher thought it was coming from outside. But then he heard the same caw once again. He looked up to where the sound was coming from, seeing a strange raven perched above both of them. Gallagher narrowed his eyes, glaring. Birds didn’t usually exist in the dreamscape. But yet there was that raven, staring down at them.

No.

It was staring at Nevan.

On instinct, Gallagher put his body between his son and raven, still glaring at it. He turned to Sunday to try to gauge his response to the intrusion. But instead of any sort of reaction he expected –Sunday looking annoyed, his feathers puffing up, him trying to shoo the bird away– he witnessed Sunday’s feathers flatten against his head. His entire body stiffened as he stared at the raven. And unlike the man Gallgher usually knew, Sunday began to stutter.

“F-Father I…I was going to introduce you when I officially welcomed Nevan as my heir, I promise!”

The raven didn’t respond, instead just continuing to stare.

“I…I assure you, Father… He will learn all that you’ve taught me, I won’t-”

“Day, hold Nevan for a moment,” Gallagher said, cutting Sunday off.

Caught off guard, Sunday did as he was asked. He carefully took Nevan in his arms. Before then holding him tightly, as if the raven would swoop down and attempt to steal him. Gallagher then disappeared down a hallway and came back with a broom. Sunday wasn’t entirely sure of what he was intending to do, until he felt his heart stop as Gallagher swatted at the raven with the broom.

“Piss off!”

The raven squawked in surprise. It attempted to land again, only to get swatted by the broom a second time.

“I said get out of here! You’re not welcome in our home!”

Reluctantly, the raven let out one last caw before flying out of the pavilion. After making sure it was gone, Gallagher turned back to Sunday with a smile. Only to then be greeted by a terrified expression on Sunday’s face. He had practically backed himself against the wall, Nevan held close against his chest. As Gallagher tried to approach, but as he did so, Sunday flinched.

“What have you done…?” was all he asked.

“I got him to go away, I-.”

“You swatted at him like he was a common pest . He’ll surely punish me, or worse Nevan when he returns.”

“Day, you’re an adult. He has no right to punish you, and even less so Nevan-”

“ You don’t know that. ”

Sunday almost seemed to fold in on himself, sinking to the floor. His wings wrapped around himself and Nevan, desperately trying to shield them from a threat he was almost certain of. Seeing that, Gallagher approached again, slowly, as not to make Sunday even more frightened. Once he was by his side, carefully, he moved one of Sunday’s wings so he could look at him. Trying to give him a comforting smile, Gallagher spoke.

“Sunday, listen to me. I get he’s the Dreammaster and all, and there are some rules we need to abide by, like that whole…coronation nonsense.”

“You say that like you didn’t want to shout from the roof for everyone to look at our son.”

“Oh, shut up. My point is, he has no right to intrude into our lives if you don’t want him to.”

To that, Sunday looked almost perplexed. As if the concept of boundaries was foreign to him. His attention was then caught by Nevan, who was beginning to cry. Worried, he looked down at his son, who was now sobbing quite loudly and trying to cling to him. Then, back up at Gallagher for answers. To which he just smiled sadly.

“He knows how scared you are and doesn’t like it. Neither do I.”

Something seemed to click for Sunday as he let one of Nevan’s tiny hands grasp his finger. He seemed to calm as he held on, now looking at Sunday no longer crying. Yet he was still sniffling with tears still welling up. Sunday gave Nevan a gentle smile.

“It’s alright, Nevan. Everything’s okay now. I’m alright.”

That seemed to do it, as Nevan let out a little “Beh!” as if to say “Good!” Sunday’s gaze shifted back to Gallagher, who was now by his side again, arm over his shoulder as it usually was. With a bit of a laugh, Gallagher motioned towards Nevan’s room with his head.

“Let’s put him down for a nap. I think he’s had enough excitement.”

With a nod from Sunday, the two began walking towards the room together. As they walked, Sunday ran through the recent events in his head. A certain thing Gallagher said while chasing the raven out stood out to him.

“You called the Pavilion ‘our’ home,” Sunday noted.

Gallagher turned away, looking somewhere between ashamed and embarrassed. While placing Nevan in his crib, he fumbled over his words as if to come up with a reasonable excuse.

“Yeah, just… I dunno it was kinda spur of the moment-”

“No, no. I’m more than happy that you think of this place as a home.”

His expression became warm. He looked back up at Sunday with a smile.

“How can I not?”

Soon, he was by his side. Gallagher placed a small, but tender kiss on Sunday’s cheek before joining him in looking at the now sleeping Nevan.

“It’s where both of you are.”

Chapter Text

Sunday almost couldn’t believe that five years had passed already. Nevan was growing so fast, maybe even too fast for his liking. He would describe his son as a precocious child. Gallagher was a bit less eloquent, but still was technically right as well when he called Nevan “scarily smart”. What they, especially Sunday, realized was how observant Nevan is. He’d point out things most kids wouldn’t notice, even a few things most adults wouldn’t notice. He’d talk about things such as the different uniforms of the families, or recognize each member of the Sweet Dream Troupe and call them by their chosen name. Sunday found it to be quite charming. He thought it was wonderful that Nevan was so bright.

Of course, bright children tend to also be more aware than adults give them credit for.

It happened on a day when Robin had the time to take Nevan backstage at the Penacony Theater. From the moment Nevan came back he was telling Sunday excitedly about his day, rambling about all that he had seen and done. As he was putting Nevan to bed, he listened more to all the interesting things he remembered from the theater. 

“It was so fun! I got to see everything Aunt Robin did to get ready for a show, and I got to help a bit! I also met a lot of other Halovians and saw something really neat!”

“Hm? What is it?”

“I saw that most Halovian girls, like Aunt Robin or Lady Black Claw, have larger head wings and small flying wings. And Halovian boys like Mister George or Mister Walter have smaller head wings but larger flying wings.”

Nevan’s own head wings fluttered excitedly as he was putting his pajamas on.

“But you and I have both large head wings and large flying wings. Isn’t that cool?”

Sunday froze for a moment, caught off guard by Nevan realizing that. But Nevan, appearing to not notice his apprehension, continued.

“Aunt Robin said you and I were uh- innersomething- Inner…inter…wait, intersex! That was the word! She said it means our bodies have things that both girls and boys have.”

So there was a word for it. Sunday wasn’t aware that there was, nor was it normal enough to have a name. He remembered what his own father told him when he mentioned the difference in himself.

“It was simply a mistake in making you, Sunday. It is no fault of your own, but it is still a mistake. There’s no need to worry though, I can simply just trim down your wings…”

Sunday felt himself shudder as his father’s voice echoed in his head. He looked back at Nevan, that still curious, but now concerned look on his face. That was when Sunday knew he couldn’t just parrot what his father told him. Nothing, nothing at all about Nevan could be a mistake. It was impossible. And by the way Nevan talked about how his wings differed so excitedly, he didn’t see it as a mistake either.

Why correct him when there was nothing to correct?

Sunday smiled at Nevan, as he tucked him into his bed.

“Well, I’m glad you find that so interesting, Nevan. And that you’re already interacting quite well with others.”

Nevan nodded and let out a big yawn. And yet he still kept himself awake for a bit longer. He looked at Sunday, with an almost concerned expression.

“Father, can I ask you something?”

“Hm?” What is it?

“Why were you scared when I talked about our wings? Is there something about them that’s bad?”

“No, no of course not. There’s nothing wrong with your wings.”

“Then, what were you scared of?”

“I…I was just…worried that you would believe that there was something wrong. It’s nothing you need to be worried about.”

Nevan, instead of simply accepting the answer, looked at Sunday again. He reached up to try to touch one of Sunday’s head wings.

“Were…were you told that us being like this was wrong?”

There came the only problem with a truly bright child. They could always tell. They knew more than anyone would suspect. Sunday really couldn’t hide anything from his son. But before he could really think about it more, Nevan sprung up from his bed and hugged Sunday.

“Because whoever said that is mean and wrong! We’re just us! It’s not bad!”

Knowing what he should do, Sunday hugged Nevan back. He pulled him close, stroking his hair, hoping he wouldn’t see the tears running down his face.

“It was mean, wasn’t it? But it’s okay, Nevan. I know there’s nothing wrong with you.”

“You too, Father! There’s nothing wrong with you either!”

He choked back a sob, yet couldn’t help but smile.

“And…me too..”

Chapter Text

“Old man! I’m back!”

Mikhail looked towards Gallagher, a tired, yet warm smile on his face. He approached him, noticing the difference almost immediately. Gallagher had an energy to his step that he hadn’t seen in a long time. The usual relaxed smile on his face seemed a lot more content rather than just his resting expression. For lack of a better term, he seemed more solid, more grounded.

Mikhail has always been a curious individual. He had to ask.

“There’s something different about you, Gallagher. Anything interesting happen to you lately?”

Gallagher’s smile simply widened. He shook his head.

“Nah, just got back from spending the day with my kid.”

“Is that so?”

He received a laugh from Gallagher.

“Yeah, I’d call him a little monster if he was. But there isn’t a mean bone in his body. Sweetest kid I’ve ever known.”

“I’d love to meet him one day.”

“Heh, who knows? I might take him to visit you here. No promises though.”

“No, of course not.”

Mikhail then walked to Gallagher’s side, his expression becoming a bit more serious.

“But you know that’s not why I asked.”

All he received in return was a sigh and another shake of the head.

“Nothing gets past you, does it?”

He looked down at the pocket of his jacket, which had a folded piece of paper sticking out of it. Carefully, he took it out.

“I don’t know, it’s weird. I know what I was created for, and yet…when I’m with Nevan I feel more…in control, if that makes sense. Like I have a purpose outside of helping you.”

“And what would that purpose be?”

Gallagher unfolded the paper to reveal a drawing, clearly done by Nevan. In crayon were three figures, of which Mikhail could gather were Sunday, Gallagher, and Nevan himself. Gallagher continued speaking.

“I guess, being his dad? Being a part of a family? But that doesn’t really seem like enough of a reason.”

“Oh I think it’s plenty, Gallagher.”

“You are not only a pathstrider of the Enigmata, but its embodiment. You are made of bits and pieces of people throughout Penacony.”

Mikhail placed a hand on Gallagher’s shoulder. He then gave it a light squeeze as if to prove a point.

“But having and raising this child. That’s not something that was taken from anyone else.”

“So…are you saying he’s…making me more real…?”

“For lack of a better term, yes. Nevan is your son, and you are his father. You created that identity entirely on your own. And it’s making you more than just a virtual character.”

It was then Gallagher’s turn to laugh. He placed a hand over Mikhail’s, looking up towards the sky of Dreamflux Reef, where the Sweet Dream and Nevan were.

“Y’know. If I were anyone else, I’d be arguing that goes against what I was made for. But in a way, that also fulfills the Enigmata, doesn’t it? To go against my design, my programming.”

“I would say so,” Mikhail agreed with a smile.

“But I wouldn’t know. After all, I’m just a Nameless.”

Gallagher finally turned to face Mikhail. His smile then faded, as he looked at him. Before he stared at his own feet. He then let out another laugh, this one humorless.

“I…don’t know what to think now. I know when we’re done with our plan I’m supposed to just fade away. And I used to be fine with that, but-”

“You don’t want to leave Nevan behind, do you?”

He saw Gallagher refold the drawing and put it back in its place. It was then Mikhail noticed tears running down his cheeks. His heart ached for the man. He opened his arms to him.

“Oh, my boy. Come here.”

It felt awkward to do so, but Gallagher still walked into Mikhail’s embrace. As much as he tried to hold them back, those tears still stung his eyes. They still ran down like the first droplets of rain.

“I don’t know what’s happening to me,” Gallagher whispered. 

‘I want to stay with Nevan. I want to keep raising him. I want to teach him all I can. I- Fuck-”

He choked back a sob.

“I don’t want to die, old man.”

The dam broke. Gallagher began crying into Mikhail quietly. 

“Who said you had to?” Mikhail asked.

“Huh?”

“Weren’t you becoming more real because of him? Does your story really have to end when mine does?”

“I suppose…”

“Think of it like this. You gave a piece of yourself to create him, did you not? Even when my story is over, that piece of you still lives on in him. You will still live on because of him.”

“I…HA! I wouldn’t believe it if I wasn’t living it.”

Gallagher tightened the hug around Mikhail.

“Thanks for that, old man. I needed it.”

Mikhail smiled.

“Anything for you, my child. I only ask one thing of you. Will you tell Nevan my story after it ends?”

“Of course I will.”

Chapter Text

Nevan liked keeping track of his life. He wanted to make sure he wouldn’t forget important things. At first he started writing everything down. Names, what people looked like, where he could usually find them. But that got tedious. And frankly rather boring to him. And to him, it didn’t capture what his life was like or what he saw.

So, he took up drawing. They started as scribbles that only he could recognize. But like with any skill, he got better and better as time went on. Enough so his fathers could understand what he was drawing, which made him very proud of himself.

Oftentimes, he’d just wander around the dreamscape just observing everything there, and drawing what stuck out to him. He’d draw the Sweet Dreams Troupe performing. He’d draw the Dreamweavers working and creating new parts of the dreamscape. He’d draw the guests of Penacony simply enjoying themselves. But one thing he’d find the most fun in drawing was the cartoon characters of the Clockie show. He’d sit in front of the Clockie statue and try to mimic it perfectly. Or keep the TV paused for much longer than anyone thought he would in order to get the other characters perfect.

Of course, still being quite young, his drawings weren’t the best. But he was still proud of them either way. And it was because of those drawings that he got to meet some strange beings inhabiting the dreamscape.

It happened one day while Nevan was wandering around the Golden Hour, looking for things to draw that he hadn’t yet. He was in Aideen Park, since that was usually where a lot of new things could be found. He saw all the standard things. The Sweet Dreams Troupe, people playing games, people at the bar, the poor saps who drank too much SoulGlad, all of which he had drawn before. As interesting as some of those things were, they weren’t new. Which was disappointing but not all that surprising.

Yet, just as Nevan was about to leave, something caught his attention. A little spark of gold just near the border of the park where the railings were. Approaching it, Nevan couldn’t believe what he was seeing at first. It was a character he recognized from the Clockie cartoon. A little yellow bird made of folded paper. Approaching it, he asked himself if he truly was seeing things right.

“An origami bird?”

The bird turned towards him when it heard his voice. It tilted its head to one side, the paper crinkling a little as it did.

“ *Tweet?* You can see me?” it asked.

Nevan nodded. Confused, but now getting kind of excited, he answered.

“I can! Can other people not?”

“Not usually! *Tweet!*” the bird replied, also seeming excited as well.

“They say only people with childlike spirits can see us and the other residents of Dreamville.”

“Childlike…” Nevan mused.

“I guess that makes sense why no one really sees you. There aren’t kids or people who think like kids usually in the Dreamscape.”

The bird fluttered around a bit, seeming quite happy to have someone to talk to. As it did, Nevan pulled out his sketchbook. The bird noticed and flew down, landing on the edge of it.

“ *Tweet!* What’s this?”

“Oh! It’s my sketchbook. It’s where I keep all my drawings of what I see in the dreamscape.”

Nevan opened the book, and the bird quickly flew up from it, now perching on his shoulder. He began to flip through the pages showing the Origami Bird all he drew and what he saw. He then looked up to the bird perched on his shoulder.

“If it’s not too much to ask, can I draw you?”

“ *Tweet!* Of course you can draw me! Can you draw the others too?”

“Others?”

“Yes! *Tweet!* Lady Vermillion, Verdant Manager, Boss Red, and Dr. Blues! Can you draw us together?”

“Oh! Yes, I’d love to!”

“Wonderful! *Tweet* Let me get the others!”

With that, the Origami Bird flew off. Nevan waited, not sure of what to expect, until he saw it return, with four other birds alongside it. They all perched on the railing, and began chittering to each other about who would sit where. Until soon enough they were all satisfied. The yellow origami bird then turned to Nevan looking quite ecstatic.

“Okay, we’re ready! *Tweet!* You can draw us now!”

And so he did. Nevan sat there for some time, doing his best to draw all five of the birds to the best of his ability. He didn’t even realize how much had passed until felt a hand on his shoulder. Jumping a bit, he turned to see his father, Sunday, looking down at him with a smile.

“There you are,” he said calmly.

“I thought I’d find you here.”

Nevan looked away sheepishly, realizing now that he had been gone for a while. He stood up from his spot, sketchbook held close to his chest.

“Sorry, Father. I was just really caught up in my drawing.”

“Oh? And what were you drawing this time?”

Nevan pointed to the birds, still perched on the railing. But when Sunday looked, he looked through them rather than at them. Confused, Nevan opened his sketchbook and showed the drawing.

“Don’t you see them?” he asked.

Sunday shook his head. Nevan looked back at the birds, who all seemed just as confused as him. Sunday just shook his head and motioned for Nevan to come along with him.

“Come on Nevan. We must return home.”

Nevan nodded.

“Okay. Can I just show the birds the drawing of them first?”

Sunday smiled, before giving a nod. Nevan then turned to the five birds, showing them the drawing he did of the five of them. Each one of them reacted in their own way.

“Oh how cute!”

“So pretty!”

“There we all are!”

“Isn’t that sweet?”

“Huh. Neat.”

They all thanked Nevan for drawing them, before the four that were brought flew off to who knows where. With that, Nevan closed his sketchbook and followed his father.

“Childlike eyes…” Nevan murmured to himself.

“Somehow I think there’s something more to why I can see them…”

Chapter Text

“Father, why do we have to do this?”

Sunday adjusted Nevan’s tie as he asked the question. Gallagher stood off to the side, leaning against the wall and looking uncomfortable in his clothes.

“It’s just a small ceremony, Nevan. We need to welcome you as my heir. My father did the same for me.”

“No, I get that.”

Nevan looked at his sketchbook and pencils sitting on the bed. His expression was that of disappointment.

“I just don’t get why I have to leave my sketchbook in my room.”

“It’s polite not to be looking down at your sketchbook while at a party. You need to be willing to socialize with the guests”

“I think it’s stu-…um…I meant-”

Sunday couldn’t help but smile. Gallagher stifled a laugh. He then walked over and messed up Nevan’s hair a bit.

“I know. But sometimes we have to do stupid things for stupid reasons.”

He received a glare before Sunday turned his attention back to Nevan to fix his hair. After that was finished he stood up, motioning for Nevan to take his hand. He did so, and the three began making their way to the main room.

As they arrived people were already there, talking, mingling, and overall seemingly enjoying the party. Gallagher wasn’t sure how many people were even in the pavilion, but it felt like far too much. He felt cramped and looking down at Nevan's uncomfortable expression, he was clearly feeling the same way. Gently he took Nevan’s other hand, and squeezed it lightly, letting him know that it was going to be okay.

At least he hoped so.

Standing off to the side, Gallagher watched as Nevan talked with the guests. It seemed to be going well, with most of them simply just acknowledging how cute he was. All the while Nevan tried to hide his discomfort with them baby talking to him and pinching his cheek. Gallagher wouldn’t deny that his son looked adorable, but he could definitely understand the annoyance Nevan was expressing at not being taken seriously.

He decided to step in. Striding towards Nevan, Gallagher pushed through the crowd, giving him some space.

“Alright, alright, let the boy breathe,” he said, trying to placate those around him.

Seeing his chance, Sunday thought it was as good a time as any to actually begin the ceremony. Loudly, he cleared his throat, drawing people’s focus towards him.

“May I have your attention please?” Sunday said to the crowd.

The chatter soon died down as they all turned their attention to him. He gave a smile and continued speaking.

“We are gathered to-”

Abruptly, interrupting Sunday, the doors to the room were thrown open. The entire party went deathly silent as all eyes turned to the sound of the doors slamming against the wall. Standing in the doorway was a tall imposing figure. A dark haired man in a dark suit decorated black feathers entered. Yet despite his demeanor, and his entrance, he gave a smile as he walked into the room. Whispers began creeping throughout the party as they all watched him stride towards a certain person. Gallagher’s eyes shifted to Sunday, only to see that his entire being had gone rigid. As the man continued to approach, Sunday stammered out a greeting.

“F-Father! I-I didn’t expect you to arrive as yourself! I would’ve assumed this ceremony would be beneath your presence.”

The man, the Dreammaster rather, gave a slight chuckle.

“Nonsense, my child. I wouldn’t want to miss the swearing in of a new heir.”

The Dreammaster’s gaze turned towards Nevan. He then knelt down to meet his eyes, that calm smile still on his face.

“And hello to you too, Nevan. It’s been quite some time since we’ve last seen each other.”

Gallagher saw Nevan swallow nervously. He stammered out his own greeting.

“Hello Grandfa-, uh, I mean- Mister Gopher Wood. T-Thank you for coming.”

He received a laugh from the Dreammaster.

“Of course, my dear Nevan. Like I told Sunday, I wouldn’t want to miss this event.”

Gallagher watched as Nevan began to make an attempt to hide behind him. But the gaze of the Dreammaster seemed to hold him in place. The uncomfortable moment held for just a second too long until Gallagher managed to break it by stepping in front of Nevan. He gave the Dreammaster a glare as Nevan hid behind his legs. The Dreammaster returned with his own glare but seemingly relented, walking towards Sunday’s side. Sunday then cleared his throat once again and continued.

“Anyway, as I was saying. We are gathered today for a very important event. There will come a time when I need to step down from being the Oak Family head. And someone will need to take my place.”

Gallgher couldn’t help but notice the slight shake in his voice. As well as the Dreammaster’s hand clutching tightly around Sunday’s shoulder.  Gallagher couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable as well, but he knew he couldn’t say or do anything. Noticing a cue, he motioned for Nevan to step forward. Nevan did so, standing on Sunday’s opposite side. Sunday then placed a hand on Nevan’s shoulder, noticeably more gently than the Dreammaster did to him, before turning his attention to the room again.

“Just like how the current Dreammaster, Mister Gopher Wood, trained me to take his place, I will do the same for my protege, Nevan. And today I will officially welcome him as my heir.”

Sunday then looked towards Nevan.

“Is there anything you would like to say?” he asked him.

Nevan nodded and stepped forward. He cleared his throat as well as began speaking.

“I know it’s a big honor for me to be the heir to the Oak family. And as the future head, I want to make sure that Penacony keeps being the wonderful dreamland it is for everyone. And that one day we can welcome everyone to the Dreamscape.”

Light applause filled the room along with a chorus of “Aww!” and “How cute!” from the guests. Nevan couldn’t help but smile proudly as he looked between his fathers. Both of whom looked quite proud of him. With that, Sunday finally finished his speech.

“Well, with that in mind, it is my honor to call him, Nevan Oak, the next head of the Family. May he continue the prosperity of Penacony and write his own melody to become a part of the Harmony.”

Chapter Text

Everyone raised their glasses and applauded again as the speech came to its conclusion. With that, the party seemed to wind down, the idle chattering continuing and people beginning to file their way out of the Pavilion one by one. Nevan watched as Gallagher breathed a sigh of relief, and Sunday seemed to relax a bit. Nevan couldn’t help but do so as well. He was glad that the crowd was dissipating and soon that meant the Dreammaster would leave too.

But they weren't so lucky.

As more people left, the Dreammaster turned to Nevan, that smile still on his face. Then to Sunday.

“My child, if you don’t mind, I’d like to speak to Nevan alone.”

Sunday flinched. Gallagher tensed up. Nevan hoped his father would make some sort of excuse, but he knew sadly that never was going to happen. Sunday forced a smile and nodded.

“Of course, Father.”

He turned to Nevan and motioned towards the Dreammaster. Uncomfortably, and slowly, Nevan followed him off to a side room. He looked back at his parents but both of them just seemed as unnerved as him. He watched as Gallagher whispered to Sunday, no doubt trying to comfort him. Or maybe tell him that he’ll get Nevan out of there. He hoped it was the second one.

Nevan never liked being around his grandfather. There was always something that was impossible and uncanny to describe about him. His smile never reached his eyes, the way he moved always felt a little too practiced, and the way he spoke always felt like he meant something else with what he was saying. The only word Nevan had on hand was “creepy”. And even then, that felt like the right word anyway.

But as much as that did matter, he knew one thing. His father would never say no to his grandfather. Why, he wasn’t sure. Maybe it had something to do with the way he always stiffened around him, or the way he would stutter when he spoke to him. He didn’t know. Nor did he have time to think about it as he was already alone in a room with the Dreammaster.

Nevan continued to stare at his feet, not really sure of what to say or do. That was until he felt a hand under his chin. Slowly, but purposefully, the Dreammaster tilted Nevan’s head up until he was making direct eye contact with him.

“What a fine boy you’ve grown to be, Nevan,” he said.

“T…Thank you, Grandfather. But…why did you want to talk to me alone?”

The Dreammaster smiled at him. Another one that didn’t reach his eyes.

“I simply wanted to give you my own blessing as the heir to the Oak family.”

Releasing Nevan from his grip, the Dreammaster folded his arms behind his back with that fake, fake smile still on his face. Nevan couldn’t help but shudder at the sight of it.

“You have quite a lot of potential, Nevan,” the Dreammaster began.

“Just as your father and your aunt had when they were your age.”

He knelt down to Nevan’s height, only making him feel even more uncomfortable. And that feeling rose enormously when the Dreammaster placed a hand on the side of Nevan’s face.

“Already, you are well-mannered, and well-spoken. It would seem that your father has taught you well. Despite his…missteps when it came to a choice of partner.”

Nevan could only guess what that meant. He knew the Dreammaster was never a fan of Gallagher. For what reason, he wasn’t entirely sure of that either. He could only guess it was because Gallgaher was “a lowly Bloodhound” as he heard him be called, but even that explained nothing. Everything surrounding him was a mystery to Nevan.

It was then he realized how lost in thought he was. He was completely unaware of what else the Dreammaster had to say to him. Yet, worrying he would come off as rude if he asked him to repeat himself, Nevan simply nodded.

Thankfully that seemed to satisfy the Dreammaster as he simply continued to smile at Nevan. As he rose to his full height once again, he said one more thing, one last wish for Nevan to hear and understand.

“When the time comes, I hope you won’t stray from your path.”

It seemed like that was the last thing the Dreammaster wanted to say. Yet, Nevan still had one question that lingered in his mind. And against his better judgement, he asked it.

“But, Grandfather…what if my path is different from the one you thought it would be?”

For just a moment, the smile on the Dreammaster’s face flickered. Nevan barely saw it, but he caught a glimpse of the change. A twitch of the eye, a clenching of the fist, and frown. But just as quickly as it was there, it was gone. He turned back to face Nevan, that smile being even more forced than it usually was.

“Oh, there is nothing to worry about Nevan. As I am sure that you will be guided properly down the right path. After all, you are the heir to the Oak Family.”

Nevan wasn’t sure what he meant by that. He always had this way of never meaning what he said, that confused him. Yet seeing his confusion, the Dreammaster simply shook his head. He began walking towards the door, and figuring the conversation was over, Nevan followed.

As the two made their way back into the main room, Nevan watched as the Dreammaster spoke to Sunday. He couldn’t catch most of the conversation, but he heard one last part of it.

“Do not disappoint me, my child.”

And with that, with an exit just as grand as his entrance, the Dreammaster threw open the doors to the Pavilion and strode out. As Nevan returned to his parents' side, those last words from the Dreammaster rang in his ears. He looked up towards Sunday.

“Father…what did Grandfather mean when he said I’ll be guided down the right path?”

Sunday flinched again. He then tried to smile at Nevan.

“Oh that’s just his way of saying that he hopes you’ll become a good leader someday.”

He was lying. He knew something else was meant by that.

But maybe it wasn’t important.

Maybe whatever it was, his parents would help him deal with it.

Chapter Text

Nevan, in his seven years of life, has always watched people come and go from the Dreamscape. He’d watch people arrive, enjoy themselves, then return to reality. He has always wondered what the world outside the Dreamscape looked like. The Reverie alone would probably be enough to fuel his desire, but he wanted more than that. He’s read so many books on other planets, on other worlds. And he wanted to see all of them. He wanted to meet the people there, to see the sights, to discover things outside his tiny world.

Yet he was told he could never go outside the Dreamscape. Well, not never, per se. The reason as to why he couldn’t leave yet was always the same.

“When you’re older, Nevan. We’ll take you to other worlds when you’re older.”

But when would he be old enough? He’s been asking for two years now. But when would he get an answer other than “when you’re older”?

He wanted to take matters into his own hands. But before he did, he decided to ask his father one more question. 

Finding him where he usually was, at his desk, Nevan approached Sunday. He stared at what appeared to be mountains of paperwork he was doing before looking up at his father and asking his question.

“Father? Why won’t you take me to reality?”

Sunday seemed to stiffen up. He let out a sigh before turning to face Nevan, his expression appearing sad.

“I…it’s complicated, Nevan.”

Well at least it wasn’t the same answer he always got. But it still wasn’t an answer. At least not the type that he was looking for. Nevan looked down at his shoes, trying not to let himself cry.

“What is? Why can’t I go? You and Dad go to reality all the time, right?”

“…No…your dad doesn’t exit the Dreamscape either.”

“Why not?”

“…It’s…it’s because his job is here. He has no reason to leave.”

“But then why can’t you take me?! You can leave your work for a little bit, right?”

“…No…I really can’t. That’s why I cannot take you to reality, Nevan. I’m sorry.”

Nevan examined Sunday’s face. He seemed genuine in his apology. He had to be telling the truth. Hanging his head in disappointment, Nevan turned away and began walking towards the door to Sunday’s office.

“Okay. Sorry, Father.”

Before Sunday could respond, Nevan had already closed the door. But he didn’t let himself cry, or wallow in self-pity. Because he had a plan.

If neither of his parents could take him to reality, he’d just go himself.

So he left Dewlight Pavilion. He made his way to the Golden Hour, where he could see where people were coming and going from. That must be the exit to the Reverie.

Taking off at a sprint, Nevan ran excitedly towards the exit. He could only imagine what he would see when he got to reality. He was of course told of what the Reverie looked like, but seeing it for himself would be something else.

As he crossed what had to be the barrier between the waking world and the Dreamscape, Nevan could feel himself waking up. He could see a new world coming into view, a room he had never seen before. This was it. He was finally going to visit reality.

It was then he could feel his body compress and shift. He almost felt like he was melting, every sense other than sight going numb. And when he seemed to reach the end of that process, he knew something was wrong.

He couldn’t speak. He couldn’t move. He couldn’t blink. He couldn’t feel any of his limbs. He knew his heart would be pounding out of his chest right now, but he couldn’t feel it. He wasn’t even sure he was breathing.

He didn’t understand. He did everything right, this had to be reality. He could see that he was in what had to be one of the hotel rooms.

But if that’s the case why did he feel so confined? So trapped?

Nevan began to shiver as he felt himself floating in the liquid Memoria. This was a horrible idea, what was he thinking?

“Dad…Father…”

“I’m scared…”

Chapter Text

Sunday felt like he was going to have a heart attack.

Nevan was missing.

And no one knew where he was.

Gallagher had already sent several Bloodhounds on a search for him, having them check every single part of the Dreamscape. But one by one they turned up with nothing, with no sign of Nevan.

As minutes went by without knowing where his son was, Sunday’s anxieties climbed. What if something happened to him? What if he was lost? What if he was hurt? What if they were already too late to help him?

No.

Sunday couldn’t think like that. They would find Nevan. He’ll be okay.

Sunday had to think.

What was their last conversation? Right, it was about why Nevan couldn’t go into reality.

Reality…

That was it.

That was where he was.

Sunday immediately left the Pavilion, making his way to the Golden Hour. If his hunch was right, he knew where Nevan was. Reaching the border of the Golden Hour, he could feel himself waking up. The Reverie soon came into view through the murky liquid Memoria of the dreampool.

The moment he sat up from his own dreampool he saw what he had been looking for. Floating next to him was a small Memoria bubble. Quietly, so much so that one would have to strain to hear it, crying echoed from the bubble. Carefully, Sunday picked it up, examining it only for a second before he held it close to his chest.

“Oh, Nevan…” he murmured into the small orb.

“You shouldn’t have had to find out this way…”

Lying back down in the dreampool with the Memoria orb in his arms, Sunday fell back asleep. Slowly, the real world began to fade away, sinking into darkness. 

And as Sunday opened his eyes again, he was back in the Golden Hour, no longer holding a Memoria bubble. But rather, holding Nevan in his arms.

Carefully, while carrying Nevan, he walked back to the Dewlight Pavilion. As they were walking, Nevan finally opened his eyes, confused. At least until he looked up to see Sunday holding him.

“Father?” he asked.

Sunday looked down at him and smiled.

“It’s okay, Nevan. You’re back home now.”

Not knowing what else to do, Nevan huddled in closer to Sunday. The two soon made their way back inside the Pavilion. There they saw Gallagher pacing back and forth, clearly stressed. Only for him to look up and immediately relax at the sight of Nevan in Sunday’s arms.

“Oh, thank the Aeons, he’s okay.”

Sunday carefully set Nevan back down on the ground. The moment he did, Gallagher threw his arms around his child, pulling him into a tight hug. Nevan quickly returned the hug, tears rolling down his face as did so. He then let go and just stood next to Gallagher, holding onto his leg. Gallagher looked up towards Sunday, his expression concerned.

“What the he-” 

Gallagher received a glare from Sunday. He stopped and corrected himself.

“Er- Heck…happened?”

“Nevan…tried to get to reality. That’s why we couldn’t find him…” Sunday explained.

Gallagher pinched the bridge of his nose, clearly annoyed that he didn’t realize that sooner.

“That explains it.”

“Y-Yeah…but I…I don’t get it…” Nevan cut in.

The two looked down towards their son who was holding on even tighter to Gallagher’s leg.

“Why did I turn into a Memoria bubble?”

Sunday looked away. He wasn’t sure of what to say that wouldn’t upset his son. He certainly couldn’t tell him the truth. So, he told him the first thing that came to mind.

“It’s…it’s the will of the Harmony, Nevan.”

“THEY desire to keep you here, in the dreamscape.”

Nevan looked down at his feet. He was clearly exceptionally saddened by the news.

“Oh…Okay…”

Sunday tried to comfort him by placing a hand on his head and kneeling down to his level.

“It’ll be alright Nevan. You still have plenty to see and explore in the Dreamscape.”

“I guess…”

“Now you’re still in a lot of trouble for running off on your own. So I want you to go to your room, okay?”

“Okay…”

Nevan turned around and began walking away to his room. As he left, Gallagher turned to Sunday, crossing his arms. He then shook his head disapprovingly, clearly upset by the answer Sunday gave to Nevan.

“Why did you have to lie to him like that?” he asked.

Sunday turned away from Gallagher, ashamed. There was a long, agonizing moment of silence between them before Sunday answered.

“Because I can’t accept it.”

He took in a shaky breath, clearly holding back tears.

“I can’t accept that in every world other than this one, he isn’t real.”

Chapter Text

Aventurine thought he would be getting a nice vacation in Penacony. And of course, to get as much information on it as possible before the IPC inevitably sent him to “collect” it. Of course, that job would probably be years down the line as there were several other things they were handling at the moment. But still, information was information, even if he had to keep it in the back of his mind for some time.

As he was strolling around the Golden Hour, he passed by someone that stood out to him. He would’ve thought it to be a Pepeshi at first judging by the small stature. But he saw no puffball hanging off their head. Instead, what he saw were a pair of wings and a halo. Which could only mean that they weren’t a Pepeshi, but a Halovian child. That alone was strange as kids aren’t usually allowed in the Golden Hour. Confused, but not willing to let his guard down around the strange occurrence, he took one of his dice out of his pocket and walked over to the child.

“Hey, kid. What’re you doing here?”

The child turned around, seeming just as confused as Aventurine. Before then smiling at him.

“Oh! Hi Mister! I don’t think I’ve seen you around before! Are you new to the Dreamscape?”

Caught off guard by how calm the child was, Aventurine slowly became unaware that his die was slipping from his grasp.

“No…not really. I just haven’t seen you around before that’s all. But still, what-”

That was when they both heard a light clink of the die hitting the pavement.

Seeing it fall to the ground, the child picked up Aventurine’s die. He examined the die before throwing it into the air. Aventurine tried to catch it, but it slipped through his fingers, landing in the boy’s hands again. A certain symbol glowed gold on the face that it landed on. And in an instant, the child was holding the gun Aventurine kept. Starting to panic, Aventurine reached out for the boy.

“H-Hey! Be careful with that! Just hand it to me and-”

The boy looked up towards Aventurine with a hopeful smile while holding his gun. What came out of his mouth next was functionally a brick to the face.

“Mister? Could you kill me?”

Everything seemed to cease moving the moment the child said that. Aventurine felt like his brain had short circuited, not sure if he heard that right. He, for lack of a better word, was horrified. He stared in shock as the child held his gun in front of him, that same bright, expecting smile still on his face. Immediately he snatched his gun away and made it vanish.

“Absolutely not!” he practically shouted.

“I can’t possibly-” he tried to say. But any sort of thoughts he had left slipped away from his mind. In the end all he could say was just simply one word.

“Why?!”

The child continued to smile at him, not seeming to pick up on his horror. Either that or he just ignored it. He then explained himself to Aventurine.

“Well, I know that if someone dies in the Dreamscape they wake up in reality. So if I can do that, then I’ll wake up, just like anyone else!”

Not sure if he fully understood the child’s logic, Aventurine decided to probe a bit.

“While…that is true, surely there are easier ways to exit the Dreamscape, aren’t there?”

The child looked down at his feet, seeming disappointed.

“Yeah, but when I tried, I turned into a Memoria bubble.”

Now it made sense. Aventurine remembered something Ratio had told him before he traveled to the Dreamscape. That memetic entities can only exist inside it. Outside, they take the form of Memoria. Which could only mean one thing.

This child was a memetic entity. And he wasn’t aware of it.

He wasn’t sure who would lie to this child about his true nature and why they would lie. He could only guess it was for the child’s peace of mind, but even then what would do other than just delay the inevitable? He felt upset on the child’s behalf, frustrated that he, no doubt, would’ve probably never found out if it were up to whoever fed him those lies.

Kneeling down to the child’s level, Aventurine placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Kid, I don’t know how to tell you this…but…there’s a reason you can’t get to reality.”

The child looked away, that disappointment returning to his expression.

“I know, I know. Father said that it’s the will of the Harmony to keep me here.”

Aventurine couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow, wondering who this child’s father was and why he would tell such an obvious lie. That only made him even more furious, but he chose to ignore that for now. Burying those feelings, he continued.

“No, it’s nothing like that. It’s because…well…you’re a memetic entity…”

Disappointment turned to confusion on the child’s face.

“Huh…?”

“Yes. If I had to guess, you were created to live here in the Dreamscape. But as a memetic entity, you can’t exist outside it.”

Confusion soon became shock in the boy’s expression, as if he didn’t believe Aventurine at first. But that shock soon turned to realization, and understanding.

“So…”

The child looked down at his hands, which were now trembling. He gripped his shoulders to only then realize his entire body was shaking. He looked up at Aventurine, something akin to terror in his expression.

“I-I don’t…exist…?”

“It’s not that,” Aventurine tried to say.

But the child didn’t listen. Tears were already welling up in his eyes as he curled in on himself. Dropping down to the ground the child began to mumble to himself.

“No, no…it isn’t true…it isn’t true…I’m real. I have to be…I have to be…”

Aventurine’s heart broke. He couldn’t let this injustice stand by. This child deserved to be real, to not be confined to the dreamscape.

Sitting himself next to the child, Aventurine pulled out his phone and selected a contact he was so used to going to. The phone only rang once before the person he was looking for answered. He couldn’t help but smile as he heard that voice, but quickly returned to a more solemn expression as he put one arm around the crying child.

“Ratio? I need to ask a favor from you…”

Chapter Text

Veritas didn’t know what to expect from Aventurine when he said the words “I need to ask a favor”. It could be anything ranging from “Double check these calculations.” to “I got stabbed.” However, even in all the possibilities involving Aventurine, the man still was able to surprise him.

“Gambler, what could you possibly need from me? Aren’t you on vacation right now?”

“I am, but this is important. Do any of your colleagues at the guild have something that could bring memetic entities into reality?”

The odd specificity of the request was what caught Veritas off guard. And more than anything, it piqued an insatiable curiosity in him.

“As a matter of fact…” he began.

“One colleague in particular might have what you are looking for. They have been creating android bodies that could house Memoria inside of them-”

“Great! How much for one of them?”

“Pardon?”

“Name the price, Doctor. You know I can pay anything.”

“I would have to ask said colleague what they would be willing to let one go for. But tell me, Gambler. Why exactly do you need this?”

Aventurine went quiet for just a moment, clearly considering what he wanted to say. His voice then became serious, unlike his usual calm and collected persona.

“There’s this kid in Penacony. He’s a memetic entity who wants to go outside the Dreamscape. I…”

Aventurine paused. He took in a deep breath before continuing.

“I want him to see reality. I’ve already hurt him by telling him the truth of his existence, I have to make it up to him somehow.”

For once, Veritas was silent. He had nothing to retort with, no statements to make. Sure this was reckless, when was Aventurine ever not? But this? This was something he knew Aventurine had believed he had pushed down for who knows how long. Aventurine would probably never describe himself as a kind person. He never got close enough to anyone for that. Yet here he was. Going out of his way for a child he barely knew.

He didn’t know why. But it made him smile.

He was getting distracted.

Taking a deep breath himself, he turned his attention back to the call he was on and spoke.

“I’ll see what I can do.”

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

“Mister Aventurine, are you sure this’ll work?”

“I promise it will, Nevan. I’ll be waiting on the other side to help you. Just don’t let go of my hand.”

“O-Okay…”

Aventurine could see how nervous Nevan was. He was squeezing his hand rather tightly, and he could feel how slowly he was approaching the border to the Dreamscape. Aventurine tried to give Nevan a comforting smile, to let him know everything would be okay.

With that, the two stepped into the border between the Dreamscape and reality.

Aventurine sat up in the dreampool, liquid Memoria dripping off of him. There, waiting for him was Veritas, standing before him with his arms crossed as they usually were. Behind him, lying on the floor was no doubt the android body. It cost him quite a lot to not only customize it but to get it the proper clothes. But it was worth it. Turning back to Veritas, he could’ve sworn he saw the ghost of a smile on his face.

“Well, it seems you were right this time, Gambler. He is beside you.”

He looked beside himself. Under his right hand, floating next to him was a Memoria bubble. He smiled at the small bubble before looking back up to Veritas with a nod.

Carefully, Veritas took his cue, and picked up the Memoria bubble. Holding it close to himself so as not to drop it, he carried it over to the android body. Aventurine then opened the chest cavity of the body. Veritas placed the orb inside and closed the cavity.

The two watched as a blue glow began to illuminate the joints of the body. The glow continued to course through the android body until it shone throughout the entire thing. After that, nothing seemed to happen. And that was when Aventurine prompted a response.

“You can open your eyes now, Nevan.”

The android’s eyelids began to flutter. Before they slowly opened, revealing Nevan’s gold irises. His eyes shifted back and forth as if to get a look at his surroundings. He then settled back on looking at the two of them.

They watched as Nevan experimentally flexed and clenched his hands. He then tapped his feet on the ground. He looked up towards them for a moment, before looking down at his hands again.

“I…I’m real…” he practically whispered

Aventurine smiled at him.

“Indeed you are.”

Without much warning, Nevan stood up, and took off out of the room. Both Veritas and Aventurine rushed to the doorway, only to see Nevan running up and down the hallway of the Reverie.

“I’m real!” he shouted, as he ran past them.

“I’m actually real!”

He raced down the hallway again. As he made his third loop down the hallway, he then skidded to a stop in front of the two. Abruptly, he threw his arms around Aventurine’s legs.

“Thank you, Mister Aventurine! I can’t wait to tell my dads I can go places with them!”

“Why not tell me now?” a familiar voice added.

From down the hall, the three of them could see Sunday approaching, a calm smile on his face. But Aventurine could tell. It was forced. He was failing to hide the worry in his posture, and the disdain behind his eyes. He decided to ignore it, simply smiling at Sunday. Nevan, ignoring the tension between the three of them then ran up to Sunday excitedly.

“Father! Look! I’m actually real!”

Sunday knelt down to Nevan’s level and wrapped his arms around him. He held his son rather tightly as if he would vanish in an instant. Both Aventurine and Veritas could’ve sworn they saw tears run down Sunday’s face.

“Yes…” he said quietly.

“Yes you are Nevan.”

He looked up towards the two men, that calm smile returning to his face.

“I should offer you both thanks…for allowing my son to exist in reality.” 

“Think nothing of it,” Aventurine replied warmly.

And in truth he wanted Sunday to think nothing of it. After all, he didn't do it for him.

He did it for a boy who deserved to not be confined to a world of lies.

Chapter Text

Nevan was having a walk around the Golden Hour, looking for new things to draw. He went to his usual spot at Aideen Park, expecting the same old things there, but hoping the Origami birds would be back. Instead he saw something entire new.

A girl his age was knelt next to one of the Dreamy Slot machines. She was a bit taller than him with bright red hair and a prosthetic arm. She also seemed to be taking in every inch of the machine, trying to figure out something about it. As he got closer, Nevan couldn’t help but become curious.

“What are you doing?”

The red haired girl turned around and made a shushing gesture, putting her finger to her lips. She inserted a token and pulled the lever on the machine. After waiting a second, she knocked the machine hard with her mechanical arm. And when she did, it made a few strange beeps before landing on one of the super big prizes. Her eyes widened and she pumped her fist into the air.

“Yes! It worked!”

Nevan’s eyes widened before he began looking frantically around, trying to see if anyone saw what the girl did. He then looked back to her, more than a little nervous.

“You can’t do that! That’s cheating!”

The girl smiled and shook her head.

“Oh come on. These machines cheat all the time. If anything, I’m just evening the playing field.”

“I…I guess…?”

The two looked down to see that rolling out of the machine’s prize slot was a small leatherbound book. The girl looked between it and Nevan before picking it up. 

“Here, Birdie. Take it.”

She tossed the book to Nevan. A bit caught off guard by it, Nevan fumbled the book a bit before getting a hold on it. He then got a good look at it. It seemed to already be full, stuffed to brim with writing and papers. Whatever sort of book it is, it seemed like it was full of information. Which did make Nevan rather excited. He looked up at the girl with a smile.

“T…Thank you!” he said brightly.

“Don’t mention it! Figured someone fancy like you would like it.”

She stood up and extended her hand, about to introduce herself. But as she did, something caught her attention.

“Bloodhounds! I gotta get outta here!”

The girl then grabbed Nevan’s hand and began dragging him along.

“C’mon, Birdie let’s scram!”

“W-Wait! I had nothing to do with this! Why are you-”

“Cause they might think you’re the one who broke it and I don’t want ya’ to take the blame either. Now let’s go!”

Nevan, after thinking about what the girl said, didn’t stop her. He let her drag him away, down the streets of the Golden Hour and eventually to a more quiet corner of it. The moment they both stopped, the two took a minute to catch their breaths. Nevan had never run that fast before, nor was he used to trying to dodge people in the dreamscape. As he was looking around at where they were, he saw the girl giving him an almost devious smile.

“Now that we’re alone, I’m gonna rob ya’!” she said, looking like she was about to jump at him.

He let out a surprised yelp. Crouching down, Nevan covered his head.

“I-I don’t have anything! I swear I-”

“Relax, Birdie! It was just a joke, I’m not gonna hurt ya’.”

Nevan took his hands away from his head and looked at the girl. She had a warm, and seemingly genuine smile on her face. Slowly rising to his feet again, he made a comment.

“You…have a really strange way of joking.”

“Ha! Yeah, I’m used to how my Papa talks to people. He’s always makin’ jokes like that. Sorry ‘bout that.”

Nevan looked away for a moment before looking back to see the girl had extended her mechanical hand to him. As his gaze rose back to hers, he took her hand and shook it.

“You got a name, Birdie?” she asked.

“Yeah. It’s Nevan.”

“Well, a pleasure to meet ya, Nevan. My name is Aurora.”

Nevan had already made up his mind. Aurora was quite strange, even by the standards of the dreamscape. But strange didn’t always mean bad.

Another thought then occurred to him.

“Hey…I know where to stay so we won’t get caught.”

“Really? Well lead the way then!”

Nevan guided Aurora through the dreamscape, taking winding turns, crossing over bridges, and going down paths unlike the usual ones that dreamchasers take. Until the two of them finally reached the Moment of Morning Dew, and Nevan’s home.

“Here we are!” he said with a smile.

Aurora stared in awe at the Dewlight Pavilion. It became more than clear she had never seen anything quite like it.

“Wow…this is where you live?” she asked.

“Yep, that’s my home.”

He then went to the front door and opened it. But as he turned to let Aurora in, she was gone. Confused, Nevan went inside, not knowing what else to do.

It was then he heard a tap on the window nearby. He looked to see Aurora at it, with a smile. Even more confused, he opened the window to talk to her.

“Aren’t you coming in.”

She hoisted herself up and sat on the windowsill.

“Love to, but I gotta go. My dads are gonna start worryin’ ‘bout me if I don’t check in. But it was pretty fun meetin’ ya’, Nevan.”

“Yeah…it was fun meeting you too, Aurora.”

She flashed him a wide grin.

“I’ll see ya’ around, Birdie!”

With that she hopped down from the windowsill and ran off. As Nevan watched her run away, he couldn’t help but think. Aurora was probably his first and only friend his age. After all, children usually weren’t allowed in the dreamscape. So to meet someone was quite the stroke of luck.

“What a strange girl…” he said to himself.

He smiled and closed the window.

“But…I’m glad she’s my friend.”

Chapter Text

Gallagher knew it was time for Nevan to see this side of himself. And to meet someone very important to him. But it wasn’t that simple for them to meet. There was a whole process, but Gallagher was more than willing to go through it. So one day, while Sunday was busy with his work, he asked Nevan to spend the day with him. Nevan, of course, agreed, and asked where they were going. He then took Nevan by the hand, walking him towards a more secluded part of the Moment of Morning Dew. It was by far the most quiet part of the Dreamscape and the best place to show him what he wanted. As they walked, Nevan looked up to Gallagher, confused.

“Dad, where are we going?”

“I’m taking you to visit my family. But first, I’d like you to meet someone else.”

Once they came to a stop, he looked at Nevan and smiled. Before putting his fingers between his teeth and whistling loudly.

At first nothing happened, leaving Nevan more than a little confused. Yet Gallagher continued to smile. It always took a little bit of time for it to show itself, since it usually stayed at the edges of the Dreamscape. After a few more long moments passed, they then heard a strange screeching sound echoing around them. Nevan almost jumped when he heard it, and looked around frantically. Gallagher was quick to kneel down and comfort him.

“Hey, hey. It’s okay, Nevan. It’s not going to hurt you.”

Nevan looked up, seeming even more nervous.

“What’s not going to-”

They heard another screech. Nevan practically buried himself in Gallagher’s chest. Gallagher decided now was a good time to pick up Nevan and carry him. As he held him, Gallagher looked up towards the sky and smiled. And as he expected, flying out of the bright colors of the early morning came a black and violet creature with countless eyes all over its body. It soared through the sky for a moment before making its way down towards both of them. Circling around Gallagher and Nevan, the creature then stopped. Gallagher then motioned for Nevan to raise his head.

“It’s alright, Nevan. This is what I wanted to show you.”

Nevan slowly pried himself away from Gallagher and stared at the creature, eyes wide and full of fear. Seeing the state he was in, Gallagher decided to show that Dormancy was harmless. Shifting Nevan to one arm, he freed his other one. He then casually scratched the side of Dormancy’s head, knowing it liked that spot. As he did so, it almost leaned into his touch and began to purr. Nevan watched the scene unfold in surprise at first, before looking towards Gallagher.

“Can…can I also pet it?”

Gallagher’s smile only brightened.

“Of course you can.”

He then took Nevan’s hand and held it up to Dormancy, who immediately placed itself beside it. Nevan, a bit caught off guard by the sudden affection of the large creature, began to scratch as well. Once again, Dormancy started purring. A small smile appeared on Nevan’s face as he continued to scratch it. Gallagher also laughed at the sight.

“I think Sleepie likes you.”

“Sleepie? Is that what it’s called?”

“…Not really. But all the kids back home call it that. So you can too.”

Nevan smiled as he continued to pet Dormancy.

“Hi, Sleepie…” he said quietly.

Dormancy almost seemed to chirp in response. Nevan giggled a bit, then looked towards Gallagher, curious.

“Is this the family you wanted me to meet?”

Gallagher shook his head.

“One of them. But there’s still someone else.”

Nevan pulled his hand back and looked up at Gallagher confused. Gallagher then looked between him and Dormancy, before giving the creature a nod. As Dormancy was preparing itself, Gallagher put Nevan back down on the ground. He then knelt down to Nevan’s level and put his hands on his shoulders.

“Now, Nevan. This is going to hurt, but only for a moment. Once you wake up, I’ll be there on the other side to help you.”

“…What’s going to hurt? Where are we going?”

“Like I said. Home.”

He released Nevan’s shoulders and stood up. He was almost kind of glad Nevan didn’t look away from him. It made the whole process far easier for him to stomach.

Then without any more warning, Dormancy’s tail spine raised. And stabbed Nevan through the chest.

Chapter Text

The moment Gallagher arrived in the alley, he heard Nevan calling out for him, his voice shaking, sounding absolutely terrified. He immediately followed where the voice came from and found Nevan huddled against a building, tears streaming down his face. Gallagher promptly scooped him up and began to console him.

“It’s alright, Nevan. The scary part is over.”

“What…was that…?” Nevan asked, eyes still red with tears.

“Why did Sleepie-”

“I’m sorry. It doesn’t mean to hurt you, it really doesn’t. This is just how we get here.”

“Where is ‘here’?”

“I’ll show you.”

Carrying Nevan through the alleyway, Gallagher made his way to the elevator. As they waited for it to come down to their level, Nevan’s tears began to dry. He looked up at the elevator as it opened, now more curious than anything else. Gallagher stepped inside, the door closed behind him, and with a bit of a rumble, it began to move upwards. As it did, Nevan became aware of an overwhelming feeling of almost…relaxation. As if he was able to breathe, without risk of being suffocated by the constant stimuli of the Dreamscape. Soon enough the door opened again and Gallagher stepped out.

“This…” he began.

“Is Dreamflux Reef. My home.”

Nevan looked around, not seeing a thriving, bustling city, like the Golden Hour. But rather, a small, quiet town. One that wasn’t packed to the gills with people, yet very much alive with residents. Nevan was almost caught off guard by how quiet it was. There was idle chatter echoing around him but it wasn’t deafening. He could see people walk by but never ran the risk of bumping into anyone like he did in the Golden Hour. Something about this place felt very much like a home as opposed to how the Dreamscape definitely felt like a tourist destination.

As they walked, people raised their heads and greeted Gallagher with smiles, asking him what was new and where he was going. To which he would smile at them and answer the same thing every time.

“Just going to introduce my kid to the old man.”

Gallagher continued to walk, and while he did so, that feeling of comfort continued to wrap around Nevan. Of course he felt at home in the Dewlight Pavilion, but Dreamflux Reef almost had the same feeling to him. The quiet peace, the small nature, all of it felt like a home.

And yet they didn’t stop by any of the places in Dreamflux Reef. They kept walking, closer and closer to what seemed like the edge of it. There, Nevan saw someone sitting in a wheelchair in the distance. As if they were waiting for something. Or someone. As they got closer to the person, that’s when Gallagher called out to the person.

“Old man! There’s someone I want you to meet!”

The person turned himself around when he heard Gallagher’s voice. And that was when Nevan got a good look at him. He was an elderly man with light blue, almost white hair. He wore a stylish hat, and an eyepiece in one eye. 

Gallagher then stopped in front of him and looked down at Nevan.

“Nevan, I’d like you to meet your other grandfather, Mikhail.”

Nevan looked up at Mikhail who was giving him a gentle smile. He knew it was different from the Dreammaster’s smile. It was genuine, full of warmth and kindness.

“You’re…you’re the family Dad wanted me to meet?”

Mikhail smiled at Nevan, before giving him a nod of affirmation.

“Indeed I am. And it’s such a pleasure to meet you, Nevan. Gallagher has told me quite a lot about you.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you too, Grandfather.”

Mikhail let out a small chuckle, amused by Nevan’s politeness.

“Oh, so formal. You can just call me Grandpa. I don’t mind at all.”

“O-Oh! Okay!”

Gallagher laughed, knowing Nevan wouldn’t be used to being so casual. He watched as Nevan continued to talk to Mikhail, soon being allowed to crawl into and sit on his lap. From the way Nevan would ask countless questions to Mikhail and listen intently at the answers, Gallagher could tell they were getting along really well. As they continued to talk, Mikhail looked up at Gallagher with a bit of a playful look.

“You going to stand off to the side the whole time?” he asked.

Gallagher shrugged noncommittally. Mikhail then laughed a bit and motioned for him to come closer.

“Your son has been telling me quite a lot of things. I think you should be here to tell me whether he’s overexaggerating or not.”

Gallagher laughed in return and did as he was asked. He took a few steps closer to the two and joined the conversation.

The three of them talked, joked, and laughed for a while. All the while, Gallagher was watching both Nevan and Mikhail. Nevan seemed a lot more relaxed than he usually is in the Dreamscape, especially around his other grandfather. And Mikhail, well. He looked like he had far more life in him than he usually did. Gallagher couldn’t tell if he was faking it for Nevan, or if he genuinely felt more lively. He hoped it was the latter.

Eventually the time came in which Gallagher thought Sunday would wonder where the two of them were. Patting Nevan on the shoulder, he got his attention.

“Alright, Nevan. It’s time to go. Your father is probably wondering where we are.”

Nevan slumped a bit, looking disappointed. But he slid off Mikhail’s lap anyway. As he did, he looked back up at Mikhail and smiled brightly.

“It’s been really nice meeting you, Grandpa!”

Mikhail smiled back.

“The same to you too, Nevan. I hope you come back soon.”

Nevan walked up to Gallagher’s side and took his hand. With that, Gallagher said his goodbyes to Mikhail and everyone else in Dreamflux Reef. As they walked back towards the alley, Nevan looked up at him.

“Dad? Can we come back here? I want to talk more with Grandpa Mikhail.”

Gallagher smiled. He picked up Nevan and held him close as he prepared to return to Sweet Dream.

“Of course we can.”