Work Text:
The book looked unimportant, but its position betrayed its significance; it rested on Ralsei's bedside table, right beside the lantern, facing towards the bed and bearing the glory of a hand-made cover. The cover was green and blank, but to Kris, authenticity mattered more than style. They turned the book to a random page:
This part should be read as you fall asleep.
As you get into bed, brace yourself for what's to come. You will not be shown mercy by the power(s) that you encounter. Repeat that last sentence. Then do it again. And again. Repeat as many times as it takes for the feeling to go away.
The aforementioned is the most important statement; start with it. Repeat these other mantras in order, three times each:
I do not like it there.
Kindness might not be useful.
It's not just a nightmare, okay?
Think about them.
Fight!
These dreams are preparation.
Ask. You won't be given anything, and that's okay.
Keep silent.
Little advice can be given for facing the contents of your dreams, for they are random in style, subject, and level of horror. There are only two pieces of guidance I can offer:
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Recognize that these visions are meant to tear you down, destroy your will and confidence. But you're a great person; happiness is the feeling you give, even though it isn't often given to you. You've faced great danger and came out on top. You have an amazing form, a form that's soft, beautiful, lovable. Keep these facts in your mind and you'll make it through intact.
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Remember that I'm with you. You can't see me, but I'm there. And I'll help you through these dreams. I'll be helping you until the very end. Not the end of these dreams; the end, in all its horrible glory.
An intrigued Kris skipped to the end of the book, hoping to get a better perspective:
At first this text didn't need a conclusion. We got along fine, and my unusual nature didn't seem to disturb you.
But overtime, you started to doubt me. You asked questions about my capability to overcome the trials put forth. You said that I could be unkind. You even--and I cannot believe you said this--doubted whether I was even there at certain times, a notion that nearly extinguished my desire to help you!
Of course I exist. I wouldn't be talking to you if I didn't! And does that really matter?
I've supported you through so many trials, I've encouraged you through your hardest endeavors, and I've encouraged you to do better; to do things that almost nobody else could do!
I'll be there in your darkest moments, I'll be there in your brightest moments! For as long as I'm with you, you will never be alone! Even if I have trouble providing the companionship you deserve, I'll always stay with you, as long as you don't forsake me. We need each other, we're both lonely souls with nobody else to talk to! I know I've been rather pessimistic at times, and I know I could do better, but that doesn't stop me from helping you, and it shouldn't stop you from helping me!
My name is Kris Dreemurr, and I will BE HERE, ALWAYS!
It ended there. Kris sat on Ralsei's bed and cried.