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Chapter Text

In the vast, walled gardens of the gleaming white palace, young Prince Dream chased a fluttering butterfly, his laughter echoing through the meticulously trimmed hedgerows. His brother, Foolish, six years older, lounged on the cool grass, watching with a lazy smile. Their mother, Queen Puffy, had allowed them a rare hour of play before dinner, and the warmth of the late afternoon sun painted everything in a soft, golden light.

"Dream, come back!" Foolish called out, his voice carrying across the manicured lawns. "You'll be late for dinner, and you know what mother says about punctuality."

The butterfly eluded Prince Dream, flitting away into the distance. He pouted for a moment, then took off at a run, his royal green tunic billowing out behind him. "Coming!" he shouted, his young legs carrying him back to his brother's side.

As they approached the grand archway leading to the palace, they heard the distant clanging of the dinner bell. Foolish sat up with a start, slapping the grass off his pants. "We really must go," he said, his smile fading into a look of mild concern.

Prince Dream's eyes sparkled with mischief. "One more minute," he pleaded, tugging at Foolish's sleeve. "Let's hide and make her think we're lost. It'll be fun!"

Foolish sighed but allowed himself to be pulled along. They dashed behind a statue of a proud knight on a rearing horse, giggling as they waited for the royal guards to pass by. The palace loomed above them, its ivory towers stretching towards the azure sky. Dream couldn't resist peeking out from behind the statue's stone hooves, and the sight of the guards' retreating backs filled him with a strange sense of excitement.

The great oak doors swung open, and the aroma of roasting meats and freshly baked bread wafted through the corridor. The boys' stomachs rumbled in unison. The games had gone on long enough, and the promise of a feast was too tempting to resist. They emerged from their hiding spot, trying to look as innocent as possible.

"Ah, there you are," said Queen Puffy, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she stood at the top of the marble staircase. "I was beginning to think I'd have to send out a search party."

Foolish stepped forward, his cheeks flushing slightly. "Mother, we're sorry for keeping you waiting."

Queen Puffy waved a dismissive hand. "Nonsense, my dear. You're young, and the day is made for play. Now, come, let us dine."

The grand hall was a symphony of candlelight and laughter, the long table laden with a bountiful spread that could have fed an entire village. Dream took his seat, eyes wide with wonder, as the servants bustled about, filling goblets and serving steaming dishes. The queen took her place at the head of the table, her crown casting a regal shadow.

"My dear sons," she began, her voice carrying the weight of something important. "I have an announcement to make."

Dream's heart skipped a beat. He knew that tone. It was the tone she used before she told them a story that would keep them up all night, or when she had decided on a new rule that was going to change their lives. He clutched his brother's hand under the table, his curiosity piqued.

"I am leaving tomorrow on a journey," Queen Puffy announced, her eyes sweeping over her two boys. "I will be visiting an old friend in a distant kingdom. It is a trip that has been long overdue."

Foolish's grip tightened around Dream's hand, and Dream felt a strange sinking feeling in his stomach. He didn't like the idea of his mother being gone for any length of time. "How long will you be away?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

The queen's smile was warm, but her eyes held a hint of sadness. "I cannot say for certain, my sweet Dream," she replied. "But fear not, for I will return as soon as I can."

The following morning, the palace was a flurry of activity as preparations were made for the queen's departure. Dream watched from the window of his chamber as his mother's carriage rolled out of the courtyard, a cloud of dust billowing in its wake. His heart felt heavier than the golden crown that adorned her head, and he couldn't help but feel as though he was watching a piece of himself disappear over the horizon.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, yet there was no word from Queen Puffy. Dream missed her dearly, her gentle voice and the warmth of her embrace. He often found himself wandering the halls of the palace, lost in thought, his small steps echoing through the vast, empty corridors. Foolish tried to fill the void, but the weight of the impending throne was already resting heavily upon his shoulders, leaving little room for the carefree games of their youth.

As the years passed, the brothers grew apart, their bond strained by the ever-widening chasm of duty and responsibility. Foolish, now a young man, was often preoccupied with matters of state, leaving Dream to his own devices. The playful banter between them grew sparse, replaced by formalities and the distance that seemed to yawn wider with each passing day. Dream felt invisible, a forgotten shadow lurking in the gleaming halls of power.

Foolish had donned the mantle of the crown with a solemn grace, his youthful features etched with the burdens of rule. Dream, on the other hand, grew colder, his once bright eyes now a stormy greenish grey. He watched his brother from afar, a knot of resentment coiling tighter in his chest with every royal decree, every public appearance that didn't include him.

As the shadows grew long and the castle quieted for the night, Dream would slip out of his chambers, his silk slippers whispering against the cold stone floors. The guards had long ago ceased questioning his nocturnal wanderings; they knew better than to disturb the melancholic prince. He sought refuge in the surrounding village, where the laughter of children and the simple joys of friendship beckoned like a siren's call.

In the village, Dream found camaraderie with a small group of children who looked up to him with a mix of awe and curiosity. They were his age, but their lives were worlds apart. Among them was Sapnap, a boy with ragged clothes and a heart full of hope. Initially, Sapnap had been overjoyed to befriend a prince, but as the weeks turned into months, he began to notice a disturbing shift in Dream's demeanor. The prince's eyes gleamed with a hunger that went beyond the thrill of their midnight escapades. It was a hunger for power, a thirst for control that grew more pronounced with every secret shared and every whispered ambition revealed.

Sapnap tried to ignore it, focusing on the good times they had together. They'd play hide and seek among the cobblestone streets, their laughter echoing through the quiet night. They'd share stories of their days, with Dream spinning tales of courtly life that Sapnap devoured like a starving man. But the stories grew darker, the games more intense, and Sapnap couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. He'd listen as Dream spoke of his mother's legacy and how he would one day surpass it, his voice filled with a fierce determination that sent a shiver down the village boy's spine.

One moonlit night, as they sat on the outskirts of the village, Dream leaned in close to Sapnap, his eyes glinting with a strange light.
"You know, Sapnap," he began, his voice low and serious, "one day all of this will be mine." He gestured towards the looming castle, its towers stark against the velvet sky. "And when it is, I'll need a loyal friend by my side." Dream nudged the boy's arm with his own, looking at him with a slight smile on his face.

Sapnap swallowed hard, nodding his head in agreement. He knew Dream was referring to the throne, and the power that came with it. "Of course, Prince Dream," he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "I'll always be your friend."

Chapter Text

Prince Dream, nineteen years of age, awoke to the soft patter of early morning light dancing across his velvet curtains. He yawned and stretched, his long limbs momentarily tangling in the plush bedsheets. He could hear the faint murmur of the castle stirring to life, a pattern of distant voices and the clanking of kitchen pots and pans. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted up the grand staircase, coaxing him from his slumber. As he descended the ornate steps, the warmth of the sun's embrace grew stronger, hinting at a promising day.

At the bottom of the staircase, Dream paused, his eyes drawn to the unfamiliar figure in the dining hall. The boy was about his age, with dark hair that looked like it had been combed in a rush and a posture that spoke of an unspoken confidence. His hands moved with a deft grace as he laid out the silverware, each piece glinting in the soft morning light. The new servant boy looked up and their eyes met, a brief flicker of surprise crossing his features before a polite smile curved his lips. Dream felt his heart stumble, the world around them momentarily stilling.

"Good morning, Your Highness," the boy greeted with a courteous nod, his British accent lilting through the air like a melody. "I trust you slept well?"

Dream nodded, his voice caught in his throat. The new servant's eyes were a beautiful dark brown and they held a spark of curiosity that made the prince's cheeks flush. "I...uh, yes. Thank you," he managed to murmur, his gaze lingering a second too long.

Throughout breakfast, Dream found his eyes straying to the new servant boy. He was attentive without being overbearing, filling the prince's cup with tea and placing a warm plate of eggs and toast before him with a practiced ease. Dream's thoughts swirled like a tornado, a mix of confusion and burgeoning attraction. He had never felt this way about anyone before, and certainly not a servant. Yet, there was something about this boy that drew him in, a magnetic pull that he couldn't ignore.

Finally, as the meal drew to a close, Dream gathered his courage. "What is your name?" he asked, his voice a tad too loud in the hushed grandeur of the dining hall.

The servant boy looked up from clearing the last of the plates, his expression unreadable. "I am George, Your Highness," he replied, his accent wrapping the words in a comforting warmth.

Dream felt his heart skip a beat. "George," he repeated softly, as if testing the sound of it on his tongue. It felt right, somehow. He watched George's movements, the way his eyes never quite met Dream's, the way his hands trembled slightly when they brushed against his own slightly by mistake. It was as if George was afraid to be seen.

That night, unable to shake the feeling that had taken root in his chest, Dream snuck out of the castle under the guise of a moonlit stroll. His mind raced with thoughts of George, the unanswered questions about his past, his family, his life before he came to serve in the castle. Dream needed to confide in someone, to understand the tumult of emotions that had taken him by storm. His thoughts led him to the village, to the quiet cottage of his friend, Sapnap.

Sapnap, a boy from the village with a mop of unruly hair and a penchant for mischief, was always the first person Dream turned to when he needed to escape the stifling confines of royal life. He knew Sapnap would listen without judgment, and that was because Dream had him right where he wanted him, directly under his thumb.

Dream's boots crunched softly on the cobblestone path as he approached the cottage, the smell of freshly turned earth and blooming flowers enveloping him. He rapped lightly on the door, his breath hitching as he waited for a response.

The door swung open to reveal Sapnap, his eyes sleepy but a slight grin spreading across his face at the sight of his friend. "Dream! What brings you out so late?" he whispered, pulling the prince inside. The cottage was small but cozy, a stark contrast to the grandeur of the castle. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow across Sapnap's face, illuminating his curiosity.

Dream took a deep breath, his heart racing as he stepped into the cottage. He knew he could trust Sapnap with his secret, but the words felt heavy on his tongue.
"I met someone today," he began, his voice barely above a whisper. "Someone...different."

Sapnap's eyes widened, his curiosity piqued. "Different? In what way?"

Dream took a seat by the crackling fireplace, his gaze lingering on the flames as he spoke. "His name is George. He's a new servant at the castle. He's...he's British."

Sapnap's eyebrows shot up. "British? That's a rarity around here. What's he like?"

Dream leaned in, his voice dropping even lower. "He's...beautiful, Sap. In a way that makes me feel like I've been living in the dark. And when he looks at me, it's as if he sees through all the royal nonsense and straight into my soul."

Sapnap nodded, his expression thoughtful. "That's quite the predicament, Dream," he said, his eyes searching his friend's. "Falling for someone who's not of your rank. But hey, love doesn't care about titles, does it?"

Dream's cheeks grew hotter. "It's not just that, Sap. It's...I don't even know what it is. It's like nothing I've ever felt before."

Sapnap leaned back in his chair, his gaze steady. "So what are you going to do about it?"

Dream rubbed his forehead, the weight of his newfound feelings pressing down on him. "I don't know," he admitted, his voice thick with uncertainty. "It's not proper for a prince to...to have feelings for someone like him. And even if it were, what would my brother say?"

Sapnap rolled his eyes. "Your brother, he's like, the Duke of Snobbery isn't he?" He laughed, though the humor didn't quite reach his eyes. "You know he's too busy chasing skirts to care about who you fancy."

Dream managed a weak chuckle, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "True," he conceded. "But it's not just that. It's...what if George doesn't feel the same? What if he's just being kind because he has to?"

Sapnap leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. "You're overthinking it, Dream. Just talk to him. Get to know him. You're not just a prince to me, you're a person. And George isn't just a servant, he's a person too."

Dream nodded, his eyes never leaving the flickering flames. "I know," he murmured. "But what if I mess it up? What if he doesn't feel the same?"

Sapnap slapped his thigh, standing up with a grin. "You're the bravest person I know, Dream. If anyone can navigate this, it's you. Just be yourself, and if he's worth it, he'll see you for who you really are."

He could feel the lies on his tongue. Sapnap hated having to pretend to like Dream. Sure when they were kids it was the coolest thing ever, being best friends with the prince, but as they had gotten older Dream had changed. A lot. Even though he could tell that what Dream was saying now was genuine feelings, Sap still didn't want to be nice to him.

"Thanks, Sap," Dream said, standing as well. "I'll...I'll think about it." He took a deep breath, the warmth of the cottage suddenly feeling suffocating. "I should get back."

Sapnap nodded, understanding the unspoken tension. "Take it easy, Dream. Remember, I'm here if you need anything."

With a heavy heart, Dream made his way back to the castle, his thoughts a jumble of doubt and hope. As he slipped back into his chambers, he couldn't shake the image of George's smile from his mind. The rest of the night passed in a blur of feigned sleep and restless tossing, the shadows playing across the canopy of his bed like silent sentinels to his tumultuous thoughts.

Chapter Text

The next morning, in the castle's highest tower, Dream sat cross-legged on a plush velvet chair. The dusty afternoon light danced through the stained-glass windows, casting a warm glow on the ancient tomes that surrounded him. His eyes skimmed over the pages of the book in his hands. Dream had always felt drawn to the library, a sanctuary of knowledge that whispered secrets of the world beyond the castle walls.

This book, however, was different. The pages were brittle and yellowed with age, and its leather cover bore the title "Chronicles of the Surrounding Kingdoms" in faded gold letters. His heart skipped a beat when he found an old map, a piece of parchment folded carefully, hidden in the back of the book. It was unlike any he had seen before, with intricate lines and symbols that almost looked hand-drawn that seemed to tell a story of their own. The paper was so thin that it was almost transparent, and the edges were tattered as if it had been handled with both love and urgency.

But what truly captured his attention was the handwriting in the corner. It was unmistakable - the elegant script of his mother, Queen Puffy. Dream hadn't seen her hand in 12 long years, not since she had disappeared without a trace. He traced the letters with his fingertip, feeling a sudden warmth spread through his chest, as if the map was a tangible piece of her that she had left behind just for him to find.

The map was of a place he'd never heard of before - a kingdom named 'Serenity's Edge'. Dream felt a tingle of excitement and a twinge of fear. His mother had always been an adventurer at heart, and the very thought of her venturing to such a distant, uncharted land was both thrilling and terrifying. He knew he had to go there, to find out what had happened to her and perhaps bring her home.

He rushed down the spiral staircase, his footsteps echoing through the empty corridors, and burst into the throne room where Foolish was holding court. The new king looked up, his expression a mix of annoyance and indifference. "What is it, Dream?" he sighed, waving a hand dismissively. "Can't you see I'm busy?"

Dream held out the map, his voice trembling with excitement. "Look what I've found!" He unfolded it, revealing the delicate script and intricate drawings. "It's in Mother's handwriting! It's got to be a clue to where she went!"

Foolish barely glanced at it, his eyes glazed over as he shuffled through a stack of parchments. "A map to some old, forgotten kingdom? What use is that to us now?" He waved a hand in the air, the royal seal on his ring glinting in the candlelight. "We have more pressing matters to attend to, Dream. The realm doesn't run itself."

Dream felt his enthusiasm wane, but he knew he couldn't let go of this lead. He folded the map back into its hiding place in the book and retreated to his chambers, his thoughts racing. He had to find a way to convince Foolish of the map's significance, or perhaps he could go on this quest alone. The idea of venturing out into the unknown thrilled him, but the fear of his brother's disapproval and the weight of his own inexperience held him back.

Just as Dream was about to sit on his bed and let his thoughts consume him, a gentle knock echoed through his chamber door. He called out, "Enter," and the door creaked open to reveal George, eyes wide with curiosity.

"Your Highness," George began, his voice barely above a whisper, "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation with the king. The map you spoke of, may I see it?"

Surprised but not suspicious, Dream held out the book. "It's in here," he said, pointing to the spot where he had found the hidden treasure. George took the book with reverence, his eyes lighting up as he carefully pulled out the map. His face was a canvas of awe as he studied the delicate script and the unfamiliar landscapes. "This is... incredible," he murmured.

"The kingdom of Serenity's Edge," Dream said softly. "Do you know of it?"

George nodded, his eyes never leaving the map. "Indeed, I do. My parents were born there, and I visited my family there as a child. It's a place of beauty." He looked up at Dream, his expression earnest. "I could guide you there, Your Highness. I roughly know the way, but it's a long journey."

The revelation took Dream by surprise. "You would come with me?" he asked, hope blooming in his chest. Not only was he excited at the prospect of potentially finding his mother but now he would have an excuse to talk to George, to spend time with him.

George nodded firmly. "Of course. If this map truly holds the key to finding your mother, then it's a quest worth undertaking." He rolled up the map with gentle hands and handed it back to Dream. "But we must be cautious. The journey could be dangerous, and we must not underestimate the challenges that lie ahead."

Dream thought for a moment, his gaze drifting to the window where the sun was setting over the horizon. "We need a team," he said, his voice gaining determination. "We can't do this alone." He turned to George. "What about Sapnap? He's a skilled archer from the village. I've known him since we were kids, and he's brave too."

George nodded thoughtfully. "He could be a valuable ally. But we'll also need someone with proper experience, someone who really knows how to fight and survive. You know, just in case." Dream's mind raced. "Punz," he exclaimed. "The castle guard. He's always had a bit of a grudge against my brother, I know he likes me and he's one of the best fighters here. I know he'll help us."

The two of them hurried to the castle's training grounds where Punz was often found, practicing his swordsmanship. Dream watched as the guard's blade flashed through the air, a silent dance of steel and shadow. As they approached, Punz noticed them and sheathed his sword, his expression one of curiosity.

"Punz," Dream called out, holding the map tightly in his hand. "I need your help."

The guard looked up, his eyes flickering with interest as Dream and George approached. "What's this about, Your Highness? And what's the servant boy doing with you?"

Dream ignored the jab at George's status. "I've found a map, drawn by my mother. It leads to a place called Serenity's Edge. I believe it could be where she went all those years ago." He held out the map, and Punz took it, his eyes scanning the unfamiliar terrain.

Punz's expression grew serious. "This is no trifling matter, Your Highness. To venture into unknown lands is to invite peril. But if it's truly the queen's handiwork..." He trailed off, his gaze meeting Dream's. "I will join you."

The three of them, bound by a shared purpose, gathered supplies and stealthily plotted their escape from the castle. Dream knew that convincing his brother was out of the question, so they decided to leave under the cover of darkness, avoiding any potential conflict or unwanted attention. The castle buzzed with the whispers of the impending journey, and Dream felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. This was it; he was about to set foot on a path that could lead him to his mother.

Creeping through the shadowy corridors, they made their way to the village, where Dream approached Sapnap's modest cottage. The flicker of candlelight in the window told him that Sapnap was still awake. He rapped on the door, his heart pounding in his chest. A few moments later, the door swung open to reveal Sapnap, his eyes bleary with sleep but his curiosity piqued by the sight of the prince at his doorstep.

"Dream?" Sapnap whispered, stepping aside to let him in. "What brings you here at this hour for the second damn night in a row?"

Dream held out the map, the candlelight dancing off its ancient parchment. "I need your help," he said urgently. "I've found a map of a place called Serenity's Edge. I think it's where my mother went."

Sapnap's eyes grew wide as he took the map. "Your mother, the queen?"

Dream nodded solemnly. "Yes. I believe she's been there, and I need to find her."

Sapnap studied the map for a long moment, his eyes scanning the unfamiliar terrain. "I... I don't know, Dream. It's been a long time since I've left the village, and the outside world is... it's dangerous."

Dream's determination grew. "I'll pay you," he offered, his voice low and urgent. "Whatever you want, I'll make sure you're compensated for your help."

Sapnap looked at him, weighing the proposal. His village life had been simple but fulfilling, yet the allure of adventure and of course the fact that he was under Dream's thumb was too great to resist. "Alright," he murmured, his voice barely audible. "But we leave tonight, before anyone finds out."

They gathered their gear and met George and Punz at the stables. The moon cast a silver glow on the cobblestone as they saddled their horses, the animals' breath misting in the chilly air. Dream felt a thrill of excitement as he swung onto the saddle, the map of Serenity's Edge tucked safely in his satchel. He glanced back at the castle, its towers looming over them like silent sentinels. Would he ever return to these walls?

Sapnap arrived, his eyes still wide with the shock of their midnight rendezvous. Dream could see the archer's mind racing with the implications of their quest. "You're really going to do this," Sapnap murmured as he tied his bag to his horse.

"I have to," Dream replied, his voice firm. "I can't just sit here and do nothing while there's a chance she's out there."

With the promise of gold, something that his family desperately needed, Sapnap felt a slight bit of reluctance disappear. He nodded slowly. "I'll come with you," he said, his voice resolute. "But only because I believe in you, Dream." God he hated lying like that...

Chapter Text

"We need to rest," Dream announced, his voice weary from hours of riding through the dense, moonlit forest.

The small group of four had been traveling non-stop since the cover of night had enveloped the kingdom. The urgency of their quest had propelled them forward, but the relentless journey had taken its toll. The village of Willow's Bend, a mere speck on the map, emerged in the distance, its few lights flickering like distant stars.

They approached the village cautiously, their horses' hooves muffled by the dew-soaked grass. The air had the scent of baking bread and woodsmoke, hinting at a peaceful morning routine untouched by their urgent mission. Dream, ever mindful of their safety, posted Punz and Sapnap to keep watch outside the village's perimeter while he and George ventured in to find lodging and supplies. He suddenly realised that people would definitely recognise him so he took a white handkerchief from his bag and tied it around his face, only showing his eyes.

The village was quaint, with cobblestone streets and thatched-roof cottages lining each side. The first light of dawn began to break through the treetops, casting long shadows across the ground. They found an inn named "The Sleeping Willow," its wooden sign creaking gently in the breeze. Dream dismounted, his legs stiff from the ride, and tied his horse, Spirit, to the hitching post. He whispered to George, "We must be careful. Word of our departure might have reached Foolish by now."

George nodded solemnly, his thoughts racing. He had a soft spot for the prince, who was unlike any royal he had ever known. Dream had always treated him with kindness, despite his lowly status.

As they entered the dimly lit common room, the innkeeper, with a cheerful face and a yawn, greeted them. "Look what the cat dragged in," they said, wiping sleep from their eyes. "Two weary travelers looking for a warm bed and a hot meal."

The inn was simple, with a roaring fireplace and a few tables scattered around. Dream's gaze swept the room, searching for any signs of danger before he relaxed slightly. He approached the counter, where the innkeeper was now fully awake, and spoke in hushed tones. "Actually there's four of us. We're in need of a place to rest for the night and supplies for the road." He slammed a heavy bag of coins on the counter, making the coins clink against the worn wood.

The innkeeper's eyes widened at the sight of the gold. "You're in luck," they whispered back, glancing around conspiratorially. "We've got a couple of empty rooms upstairs. Nothing fancy, but they're clean. Oh, I'm Eret by the way, nice to meet you."

With the arrangements made, Dream nodded to George and stepped outside, the cool air refreshing on his face. He signaled to Sapnap and Punz, who had been vigilant in their watch. The village was still, the only sounds the occasional snort of their horses and the distant crowing of a rooster. Dream called softly to them, and they approached, Sapnap's eyes lighting up at the mention of food and rest.

"We're all set," Dream said, keeping his voice low. "Eret here has a couple of rooms for us upstairs. We'll grab some supplies and be on our way in the morning before anyone from the castle catches wind of our visit."

Sapnap and Punz dismounted, stretching their cramped limbs. Punz surveyed the area, his hand on the hilt of his sword. Sapnap, ever the opportunist, looked around eagerly. "Food first, I say," he whispered, his stomach growling.

Dream nodded in agreement. "We'll grab a quick meal and then rest. We're still god knows how far away from Serenity's Edge."

The group of four entered the inn, the warmth from the fireplace wrapping around them like a welcoming embrace. The smell of roasting meat and fresh bread filled their nostrils, making their stomachs rumble in anticipation. Eret led them to a table near the fire and promised to bring breakfast promptly. Dream's gaze remained sharp, scanning the room for any signs of trouble. He knew that even in the most peaceful-looking places, danger could be lurking.

Moments later, Eret returned with a platter of steaming food and a tray of mugs filled with a rich, dark liquid that smelled faintly of berries. "Breakfast is served," they announced, setting the food down with a flourish. "And about those rooms, I've got two available for you. Looks like you'll be bunking together for the night."

Dream looked at George, his blue eyes piercing in the dim light. He knew that sharing a room would give him a chance to learn more about the servant boy he had come to trust. "No problem," he said, flashing a small smile. "We're all friends here."

George felt his cheeks warm slightly, the prince's words resonating deeply. He had never shared a room with royalty before, let alone someone he secretly somewhat admired. As they sat down to eat, the food was a delightful reprieve from their journey's bland rations. The eggs were fluffy, the bacon crisp, and the berry tea warmed their spirits. The flickering fire cast shadows on their faces, dancing with each bite they took.

"Thank you for bringing me along, Dream," George said between mouthfuls, his voice earnest. "I know this isn't an easy journey, but I won't let you down."

Dream met George's gaze, his expression a mix of reassurance and determination. "You're not just "along for the ride", George. You're a part of this. Your knowledge of the kingdom and your family's ties to Serenity's Edge are going to prove useful, I just know it."

Sapnap, not one for sentimental exchanges, eagerly tucked into his food, the juices from the roast dripping down his chin. "Easy journey? This is gonna be the adventure of a lifetime! Just think of the stories we'll have to tell once we find Queen Puffy!"

Punz, ever the pragmatist, cleared his throat. "*If* we find Queen Puffy. I think the more important question is, how are we going to find her in the first place? That map is as clear as mud, and we've got nothing but our wits and our swords to guide us."

Dream leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "We'll need to gather information, talk to locals, and follow any leads we can find. The map is just the starting point."

"Maybe we should ask Eret if they know anything about Serenity's Edge," George suggested. "Or even what kingdom this village belongs to. Who know, we could be closer then we think."

Dream nodded thoughtfully. "Good idea. We could use any information we can get." He turned to Eret, who was busy wiping down the bar with a cloth. "Could you tell us anything about the kingdom of Serenity's Edge, or perhaps the one this village is a part of?"

Eret paused, eyeing the gold coins that still lay on the counter. They leaned closer, curiosity piqued. "Well, you're in the kingdom of Kinoko now, a good five days' ride from Serenity's Edge. It's not a place many venture to, or from, these days...." They trailed off, their eyes darting around the room as if to ensure no one was listening. "Let's just say, the lands have become less welcoming."

The four travelers exchanged glances, their appetites momentarily forgotten. Dream leaned in, his voice low and urgent. "What do you mean?"

Eret leaned closer, the firelight casting shadows across their faces. "Serenity's Edge is a place shrouded in mystery. It's been cut off from the rest of the lands for years, ever since Queen Puffy disappeared on a journey there all those years ago. Some say it's cursed but I don't buy it. As for Kinoko, well, it's been through its fair share of troubles too."

Dream's heart raced at the mention of his mother's disappearance. He had been just a child when she had left, and the whispers of her fate had haunted him for years. "What kind of troubles?" he asked, his voice tight with tension.

Eret sighed heavily, setting down their cleaning cloth. "Bandits, mostly. They've become bolder in recent times. They say it's because the crown isn't what it used to be. I'll have to agree on that one, the king has definitely been acting strange these last couple of years." The innkeeper's gaze grew distant, and Dream couldn't help but wonder what they weren't saying.

"We'll be careful," Dream assured them, trying to keep the concern from his voice. He didn't want to alarm the group, especially George, who was already looking paler than usual. "We've made good time so far. With any luck, we'll be in Serenity's Edge before we know it."

They finished their meal in silence, the weight of their mission settling heavily upon them. As they climbed the creaky stairs to their shared room, George couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and dread. The thought of being so close to Dream, of sharing the same space, made his heart race. He had never allowed himself to hope for more than friendship, but in the quiet moments, when he thought no one was looking, he had dared to dream a little.

The door to their room swung open to reveal a single, large bed with a patchwork quilt, two pillows, and a small wooden chair pushed against the wall. George's cheeks flushed, and he tried to keep his eyes from straying to Dream's reaction. The room was small, with a single window that let in the early morning light, casting a soft glow across the bare floorboards.

George's eyes widened briefly, but he quickly recovered his composure. "Looks like we're sharing," he said with a forced chuckle, trying to lighten the sudden tension.

Drema nodded, his eyes darting to the single double bed in the center of the room. He had hoped for a separate place to sleep, but the reality of their situation was clear. They were in a small village with limited accommodations, and the gold he had offered had bought them only so much privacy. Well, even though it wasn't what he'd planned, he certainly wasn't complaining.

George, ever the gentleman, gestured for Dream to take the bed. "You take it," he offered. "I'll sleep on the floor."

Dreamlooked at him, surprised by the offer. "You don't have to do that," he protested, his voice barely above a whispered

George shrugged. "It's not a problem. I've slept on worse. Besides, I don't trust those floors to be as clean as the bedsheets."

Dream couldn't help but smile at George's practicality. "Thank you," he said, his voice sincere. He sat down on the edge of the bed, his armor clinking softly. "But we should get some rest. We've got a long day ahead of us."

George nodded, taking the blanket Eret had provided and spreading it out on the floor. "You're right," he said, his voice laced with exhaustion. "We'll need our strength."

Dream removed his boots and armor, placing them neatly beside the bed. The mattress dipped slightly as he lay down. He stared up at the ceiling, listening to the faint sounds of the village stirring to life outside. The bed was warm, the blankets thick and comforting. For a brief moment, he allowed himself to feel a flicker of hope that they might actually find his mother.