Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Once, the kingdom of Velmora was a land of prosperity, its royal family said to be blessed by the heavens themselves. 

On the night of a great meteor shower, falling stars streaking across the sky like divine omens. It was then when the twin princes were born. One with golden bright hair, much like the queens, and the other with it's dark moon-like hair, like the King.

The people rejoiced and celebrated, believing the twins to be a gift of fate, destined to rule in harmony and lead the kingdom into a golden age.

For years, Velmora flourished under the reign of the benevolent queen and king, who nurtured their sons with wisdom and love. 

But fate is harsh. 

When a sudden illness took the queen’s life, the kingdom mourned and the King only grew mad. 

Whispers of chaos grew, and soon, over time, the brothers who were once inseparable, stood on opposite sides of a growing divide.

Now, the kingdom is divided, split between those who follow the golden "sun" prince, the embodiment of virtue and righteousness, and those who swear allegiance to the dark "moon" prince, whose intelligence goes beyond the heavens. 

Some claim their battle to the throne is inevitable, a cause of ruin. Others call it nothing more than baseless rumors spun by scheming nobles. But in Velmora, these rumors have power.

And with the noble factions split into three, the golden prince’s loyalists, the dark prince’s followers, and the neutral houses who watch and wait, the fate of the throne hangs in a delicate balance. 

The kingdom is on the brink of something far greater than politics or war.

After all, when the stars themselves blessed the twins, could they not just as easily curse them?

Chapter Text

The west wing of the castle was quiet. Too quiet if you asked Cross.

As the newest knight assigned to guard this isolated spot, he wasn’t sure why anyone thought it needed protection. The silver-haired knight yawned from boredom.

The cold stone halls felt abandoned, as if no one had set foot here in years. His job was simple: stand by the window, watch for threats, and report back if anything unusual happened. But so far, nothing ever did.

Cross leaned against the wall, his eyes on the empty grounds below. The only sound was the wind whistling through the cracks in the stone.

It was peaceful, but it made his job feel unnecessary. Not that he's complaining.

Until, suddenly, he heard the faint sound of footsteps.

Cross stiffened, instantly alert.

He turned to see a young man walking into the room casually, as if he belonged there.

The man was dressed plainly, his steps light and unhurried, and he seemed oddly comfortable in this deserted part of the castle.

'A servant?' He thought. Cross’s hand moved to the hilt of his sword.
'But why would a servant be all the way here.?'

“Hey! Who are you?” he asked sharply, his voice firm.
“This area’s restricted. What business do you have here?”

The man stopped, blinking in surprise at the stern greeting.

The light-blonde haired man raised his hands slightly in a gesture of peace, a soft smile on his face.

“I.. didn’t mean to alarm you. I’m just passing through.”

Cross was suprised by how bright the man was, he was certainly a beauty, but Cross didn’t relax.
'Passing through? But the route here leads to nowhere..'

He kept his grip on the sword, his eyes narrowing.
“Passing through? This isn’t a part of the castle most people just ‘pass through.’ State your name and purpose.”

The young man’s smile didn’t falter, though his tone took on a polite, almost formal quality.

Cross couldn't help but notice how shiny and golden his eyes were in the sun's light.

“My name is.. Dream. Actually, I often come here to think. It’s quiet, and I didn’t realize I was intruding! My apologies."

“Dream?” The name felt familiar , but he couldn’t place it. He still didn’t trust the stranger.
“I’ve never seen you around here. Are you a servant?”

Dream tilted his head slightly, the warmth in his expression never fading. “Not exactly,” he said, his voice gentle but vague.
“I suppose you could say I work here in a way.”

Cross’s frown deepened. He wasn’t sure what to make of Dream’s evasive answers, but he couldn’t sense any real threat from the bright man either.

His presence was calming, if anything.

Still, it was his job to be cautious.
“You should know that this area isn’t open to just anyone."

Dream gave a soft, understanding nod.
“Of course. I didn’t mean to cause any trouble. I simply come here because it’s peaceful. A place where I can be alone with my thoughts.”

He paused, his voice growing even softer.
“But it seems it’s not so empty anymore..”

Cross hesitated, unsure if he should press the issue further. Dream didn’t seem dangerous, and the way he spoke was so polite, so disarming.

But Cross was still on duty, and he couldn’t ignore his responsibilities. 'Stick to your duties, Cross. Don't let him distract you'

“If you don’t have proper clearance, I’ll need to report this,” he said, though there was less bite in his tone now.

Dream met his gaze calmly.
“No worries, I understand.”

He didn’t argue or offer any excuses, simply standing there with an air of quiet dignity.

Cross shifted uncomfortably. 'How is he so calm? Most people would be nervous by now.'

He wasn’t used to dealing with people like this, so kind and calm under pressure.

With a sigh, he lowered his hand from his sword.
“Sorry if I came off harsh,” he muttered.
“I’ve just got orders to follow.”

Dream’s smile returned, softer this time.
“Ah, No need to apologize. You’re doing your duty. I respect that.”

There was something in the way Dream said that, so genuine and warm, that made Cross feel guilty for being so suspicious earlier.

He cleared his throat awkwardly, feeling like he owed Dream more of an explanation.
“It’s just… I’m new to the castle, and I’ve been assigned here to watch this area. Not a lot of people come through, so seeing someone walk in unannounced… it just caught me off guard.”

Dream nodded, his eyes full of understanding.
“ I can see why. The west wing is often forgotten, but that’s exactly why I come here. It’s one of the few places where no one looks for me.” Dream says as he sits down near the window.

Cross raised an eyebrow.
“And why’s that? Are you trying to avoid someone?”

Dream chuckled softly, the sound light and almost boyish.
“Not avoid, exactly. Just… sometimes it’s nice to step away from everything and be alone.”

He glanced out the window, his eyes thoughtful.
“It helps me think more clearly.”

Cross nodded, slowly starting to relax.
'Well, He doesn’t seem like a threat. If anything, he seems. lonely. I mean, if anything, he just seems like someone who just wanted peace.'

“I get that,” Cross admitted.
“Sometimes it’s good to have a place where you can think. Everything’s so busy around the castle.”

Dream looked back at him, his smile gentle.
“Exactly. That’s why I come here. It’s like a secret spot for me, I suppose.”

Cross felt a little guilty for interrogating Dream so harshly earlier. He was just someone looking for some peace and quiet. 'I should’ve realized that sooner.'

Still, something about Dream’s presence felt familiar, though Cross couldn’t quite figure out why.
'Where have I seen him before?'

He shook off the feeling for now.

...

'A little chat won't be bad right?' Cross thought.

“So, what brought you to the castle? You didn’t really say what you do.” Cross said in a more casual tone

Dream paused, as if carefully considering his words.
"..I suppose you could say I belong here in more ways than one.”

Cross tilted his head, confused. “That’s… vague.”

Dream chuckled softly,
“I apologize. I didn’t mean to confuse you.”

Cross frowned again, the feeling of familiarity growing stronger. Dream’s face, his name… something about him was tugging at the back of his mind, but Cross couldn’t place it.

Deciding not to push further, he shrugged.
“Well, as long as you’re not causing any harm, I don’t have a problem with you being here.”

Dream smiled again, a little brighter this time. “I appreciate that.”

There was a brief pause before Dream spoke again, his voice light and playful.

...

Cross isn't the type to socialize alot, so the knight was used to awkward silence.
'Ah, it turned quiet again. The silence sure is loud.. Should I say something?'

“Can I ask you something random, Cross?” Dream suddenly spoke.

“huh? Sure,” Cross said, slightly surprised.

“Do you.. have any odd fears? Like, animals you’re scared of?” Dream’s eyes sparkled with amusement, as if he found the idea of fear itself a little silly.

Cross blinked, caught off guard by the question. “Hah, that is quite random. What's with the sudden question?"

"I don't know.. I'm just curious?" Dream explained.
"So do you?"

"Uh… yeah, I guess.”
He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling a little embarrassed.
“If your talking about animals.. then I guess.. Cows..” He mumbled.

"Hmm, what was that? I couldn't hear you~" Dream stated.

"Cows. I'm scared of cows."

Dream blinked in surprise, then let out a soft laugh.
“Cows? Really?” Dream giggled

Cross felt his cheeks heat up. “Yeah, they’re… unsettling. They’re huge, and they just stare at you with those big eyes. I don’t trust them.”

Dream’s laughter was loud yet not mocking.
“pfft- I’ve never thought of cows that way before, but I can see it now. I suppose we all have our quirks.”

“What about you?” Cross asked, hoping to deflect the attention.
"Is there an animal you fear?”

Dream looked away, his smile turning a little shy.
“Owls.”

“Owls?” Cross repeated, surprised.
“Heh, pf- What’s wrong with owls?” Cross said holding back his laugh

“They’re… kinda creepy,” Dream said, his voice quiet.
“The way they turn their heads… it’s just kinda eerie...”

Cross chuckled, feeling more at ease.
“Owls and cows, huh? Guess we both have weird fears.”

Dream smiled warmly.
“Yes, I suppose we do.”

As the conversation lightened, Cross found himself enjoying Dream’s company.

The man was easy to talk to despite the strange start. As the evening shadows stretched across the room, Dream straightened up.

“I should be going,” he said softly. “But it was nice talking with you, Cross.”

“Yeah,” Cross replied, feeling a little disappointed that Dream was leaving.

“Maybe I’ll see you around?”

“Perhaps,” Dream said with a small smile.
“This spot is my favourite, after all.” With a polite nod, he added,
“Good night, Cross.”

“Good night, Dream,” Cross said, watching him disappear down the hallway.

Once Dream was gone, Cross leaned back against the window, his mind still turning over their conversation.

There was something familiar about Dream’s face, his name... but Cross couldn’t quite figure out what.

Shaking his head, he returned to his post, still smiling to himself. What a strange encounter, he thought. But not a bad one.

Chapter Text

Cross leaned against the cold stone wall of the west wing, watching the empty grounds below. 

The moon hung high in the sky by the time Cross finished his shift. 

'Dream... I swear I've heard of that name before..' 

Cross thought as he made his way down the long stone corridor, his boots echoing faintly. 

He shook his head, trying to push the man’s warm smile and golden eyes from his thoughts. 

'Focus, Cross. You’ve got duties to finish.'

--

Cross’s room was a small, unadorned chamber near the barracks, furnished with only a bed, a wooden table, and a single chair.

It wasn’t much, but it was more than he expected when he first arrived at the castle.  

He quickly removed his armor, the metal plates clinking as he set them on a stand in the corner. 

He changed into a simple shirt and trousers, rubbing the back of his neck as he stared at the small window overlooking the courtyard.  

'Why did I even talk to him?' he wondered. It wasn’t like him to strike up conversations, let alone with strangers wandering restricted areas. 

But there was something about Dream that put him at ease, despite his initial suspicion.  

With a sigh, Cross grabbed a cloak and headed to the command post. He needed to report his shift and prepare for tomorrow.  

--

The command post buzzed with low chatter and the clink of armor as knights finished their shifts. 

Cross slipped inside, his footsteps blending into the noise. 

At the far end of the room, A dark haired and dark, almost soulless eyes man lounged at the desk, one leg casually propped on a corner.

 His black-and-red cloak draped loosely over his shoulders, giving him a devil-may-care appearance.  

“Ah, look who’s here,” the man drawled as Cross approached. He didn’t bother straightening up, his grin sharp and playful. 

“Let me guess, nothing to report again? You know, you might have the cushiest job in this entire place.”  

Cross resisted the urge to sigh. “West wing’s quiet as usual,” he said, keeping his tone even. 
“No disturbances."  

The man hummed, leaning back further in his chair. 
“No disturbances, huh? Must be thrilling standing around, staring at cobwebs all day.” 

He smirked, his eyes gleaming. 
“At least you don’t have to do anything dangerous. I’d call that a win.”  

Cross folded his arms, used to the Knight Commander’s teasing. 
“It’s not as easy as you think, Killer!” he replied. 

“It gets cold over there, and there’s nothing to do but watch the same empty courtyard..”  

“Aw, poor you,” Killer said, mock sympathy dripping from his voice. 

He leaned forward suddenly, resting his chin on his hand as his grin turned sly. 

“Maybe I should take over for you sometime, hmm? Stand there, look pretty, and hope for some ghost to keep me company.”  

Cross frowned. “Ghosts?”  

Killer shrugged, his expression unreadable now. 
“You never know. The west wing’s got a history, you know. Strange sounds, doors opening on their own… it’d be a shame if something spooky showed up and you weren’t prepared.”  

Cross rolled his eyes. “You’re messing with me.”  

Killer barked a laugh. 
“Of course I am! Heh, But seriously,” he said, his tone softening slightly, 

“you sure nothing happened? You’ve got that look like you’re hiding something.”  

Cross tensed, but quickly shook his head. “Nothing happened. Really...”  

Killer studied him for a moment longer, his smirk fading into something more neutral. 

He straightened up, his demeanor shifting slightly. 
“Alright,” he said firmly, his voice carrying a hint of authority now.

 “But remember, even the quiet places matter. Just because you don’t see a threat doesn’t mean there isn’t one.”  

Cross nodded. “Understood.”  

“Good,” Killer said again, leaning back.

 “Just do your job and stay alert. I don’t need one of my knights getting sloppy.”  

Cross hesitated, then nodded. 
“Sure,” he said, though the memory of Dream lingered in the back of his mind.  

Killer waved a hand, the grin creeping back onto his face. 
“Alright, alright. I’ll take your word for it. But if you’re holding out on me, I’m gonna find out eventually.”  

“I’m not,” Cross insisted.  

“Good boy!,” Killer said, his grin widening.
 “Now get out of here before I decide to give you extra shifts. Go on, shoo!”  

Cross turned to leave, but Killer’s voice followed him.
 “And hey,” Killer called out, his tone oddly casual, “try not to freeze to death out there tomorrow, yeah? It’d be a real pain to replace you.”  

Cross glanced back, unsure whether Killer was joking or being sincere. “I’ll keep that in mind,” he said dryly before slipping out of the room.  

--

Back in his room, Cross collapsed onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling.

 His thoughts wandered back to Dream, to the way he’d spoken so calmly, so kindly. 

It was rare to meet someone like that in the castle.  

'Who are you really?' Cross wondered. He didn’t have the answer, but something about Dream felt... different. 

Before sleep claimed him, Cross made a silent promise, if Dream showed up again, he’d get to the bottom of it.  

---

The door to a lavish, sunlit room creaked open, and Dream stepped inside, sighing softly. 

He’d discarded the plain clothing he wore during his outing in the west wing but still carried the air of someone who had been somewhere he shouldn’t.  

“Your Highness!”  

Dream barely had time to shut the door before Blue appeared, his expression a mix of worry and exasperation. 

Dressed impeccably in a tailored butler’s suit, the small blue haired with bright blue eyes servant carried a stack of neatly folded linens, though he quickly set them down to scold his prince.  

“Where have you been?! And what are you wearing?!” Blue gestured to the casual attire Dream had draped over his arm.

 “Sneaking off again, weren’t you?!”  

Dream chuckled softly, brushing past Blue and sitting by the window.
 “Calm down, Blue. I just took a walk...”  

Blue’s eyes narrowed. 
“A walk..? Dressed like that? Do you have any idea how strange that is? A prince dressed in rags running around the castle!”  

Dream smiled, unbothered. “I was walking! And It's fine! No one noticed me-”  

Blue cut him off, throwing up his hands in frustration.
 “No one noticed you? You’re the prince, your highness! If anyone found you wandering around unguarded, dressed like that-”  

“They’d think I was just another servant,” Dream finished, his tone light and teasing.  

Blue frowned, his shoulders dropping in defeat. He knew better than to argue when Dream was like this. 

“You’re going to give me a heart attack one of these days,” he muttered, reaching to take the clothing from Dream.  

“You worry too much, Blue,” Dream said with a gentle smile. 
“No one would even recognize me. Most people have never even seen my face”  

Blue hesitated, studying Dream carefully. 
“...No one? Are you certain?”  

Dream’s smile faltered for a moment as Cross’s face flashed in his mind. “Well... there was someone.”  

Blue’s jaw dropped.
 “Your Highness! Who? Did they recognize you?”  

Dream laughed, amused by Blue’s dramatic reaction. 
“Relax. He didn’t recognize me. He was just a knight, new to the castle, I think. We talked for a while, that’s all.”  

Blue crossed his arms, his frown deepening.
 “A knight? And you just... casually chatted with him? Are you sure he didn't recognize you?"  

“Yeah,” Dream admitted, his voice softening. 

“And it was nice. He didn’t treat me like a prince. He didn’t know who I was, and for once, I didn’t have to pretend.”  

Blue sighed, his expression softening at Dream’s words. 
“I understand, your highness. But you have to be careful. There are nobles who are watching your every move, waiting for a moment to strike, and you know how quickly rumors are to spread in this castle.”  

Dream nodded, his golden eyes gazing out the window. “I know, Blue. But sometimes... I just need to breathe.”  

Blue softened, stepping closer and placing a hand on Dream’s shoulder.
 “I’ll always support you, your highness. But please, let me know next time you plan to sneak off. At least so I can make sure you’re safe.”  

Dream smiled up at him, grateful.
 “Thank you, Blue.”  

---

Chapter Text

The sun spilled through the grand windows of the royal chambers as Blue adjusted the disguise on Dream with practiced ease.

“I still don’t get why you insist on sneaking out like this,” Blue muttered as he secured the loose-fitting tunic.

“You’re the prince. You could just order people to leave you alone.”

Dream grinned, his golden eyes shimmering with excitement. 
“Where’s the fun in that? It’s more thrilling this way.”

Blue sighed, smoothing out the fabric.
"Thrilling isn’t exactly what I’d call it.” 

He stepped back to examine Dream’s new look, plain but presentable. Just enough to blend in without drawing attention.

Dream adjusted his sleeves, looking at his reflection in the mirror. 
"Perfect. No one will suspect a thing."

Blue folded his arms. 
“You say that, but if anyone catches you, I’m the one who’s going to suffer.”

Dream turned to him with a playful smile. 
“Then I’ll just have to make sure I don’t get caught.”

Blue groaned, rubbing his head. 
“Just… be careful, alright?”

Dream nodded, already heading for the door. 
“I will! See you later, Blue~!”

Blue watched him leave with a resigned sigh.

---

Cross was already in his usual post near the window, watching the courtyard below.

The wind was gentle today, carrying the scent of fresh leaves and stone. He found himself enjoying the quiet, until a familiar voice broke it.

“I was hoping you’d be here.”

Cross turned quickly, his hand instinctively moving to his sword before recognizing the bright-eyed visitor.

“Dream?” 
He relaxed slightly, though his expression remained guarded.

Dream smiled as he stepped forward, his golden eyes practically glowing in the sunlight.

“Glad you remembered me,” 
Dream said, folding his arms as he leaned casually against the windowsill.

Cross let out a small huff. 
“Hard to forget someone who just wanders into restricted areas like it’s nothing.”

Dream chuckled. 
“Fair point. Hehe”

Cross leaned against the window frame, arms crossed as he stole another glance at Dream.

Cross thought the man was absurdly pretty, too pretty. 

And it wasn’t just his looks. It was the way he carried himself, the ease in his smile, the confidence in his movements.

His face was delicate yet striking, like someone carved from the finest marble. It wasn’t the kind of beauty a regular servant had.

‘He’s too pretty…’
Cross thought, a strange feeling creeping in. ‘Someone like him… there’s no way he’s just a servant, I'd honestly believe it if he told me he was a noble'

Cross recalled the maids gossiping the other day, something about one of the princes inviting servants to his chambers at night.

‘Wait.’

‘Could Dream be one of them? Theres no way right.. But for someone that looks like an angel sent from the heavens, maybe..?’

Cross felt a sudden wave of sympathy hit him like a ton of bricks.

Dream must have noticed the shift in Cross’s expression because he raised a brow. 
“Is something wrong? Are you alright? ”

The thought made something in his chest twist. He wanted to ask outright, but how the hell did you bring that up in conversation?

"I-I'm fine"
 Cross replied. 'What am I doing having such terirble thoughts?' 

“Something on your mind?”
Dream, sensing the tension, let out a small sigh before stepping closer to the window.

"Hey, Do you ever just sit and watch the sky?" 
he asked suddenly, his voice softer now.

Cross blinked, caught off guard by the change in topic. 
"...Sometimes."

Dream smiled, settling down on the stone ledge beneath the window.

"It's nice, isn't it?" he murmured, resting his arms on his knees. 
"When I have time, I like to just sit and watch the clouds move. The world feels quieter that way."

Cross glanced at him, surprised by the sentiment.
“…I take walks sometimes. I like the breeze.”

Dream looked at him with interest.
 “Oh? Where do you usually go?”

“Nowhere in particular.” Cross shrugged. 
“Just… places where it’s quiet.”

Dream smiled. 

“Sounds nice.”

Cross glanced at him, still trying to figure him out. 
“…Do you even get time for that? If you’re always working?”

Dream hummed. 
"Not often. But I make time when I can.”

“…Do you have hobbies?” Cross asked before he could stop himself.

Dream brightened at the question. 
“Plenty.”

Cross raised an eyebrow. 
“Plenty?”

Dream grinned. 
“Mm-hmm. I enjoy archery.”

Cross blinked. ‘Archery?’

That… didn’t sound like something a pleasure servant would do.
‘Maybe he isn’t one?’

Or, Cross’s brows furrowed slightly.. 
‘Maybe he’s just favored to the point where they let him do whatever he wants.’

The thought made his stomach turn.

Meanwhile, Dream continued, completely unaware of Cross’s internal crisis.

“I also paint,” 
he added, leaning back slightly.

Cross, still deep in his thoughts, muttered, 
“So you’re good with a bow and a paintbrush?”

Dream laughed. 
“I like to think so.”

“…Huh.”

Dream tilted his head. 

“What?”

“Nothing. Just… you’re not what I expected.”

Dream grinned. 
“I’ll take that as a compliment.”

Cross hesitated, then sighed.
 “…Painting, huh?”

Dream nodded. 
“Landscapes, mostly. Sometimes portraits.”

Cross thought about that for a moment. 

“Never tried painting before.”

Dream gasped dramatically. 
“Oh, you must try it at least once! It’s freeing.”

Cross rolled his eyes.
“I doubt I’d be any good at it.”

Dream smirked. 
“You never know until you try.”

Cross sighed, shaking his head, but there was no real annoyance in his tone.

A brief lull fell between them, the cool night air brushing past.

Then Dream tilted his head. 
“You know… I just realized something.”

Cross glanced at him. “What?”

“I don’t even know your name.”

Cross stiffened slightly. ‘Ah right, I never properly introduced myself’

"My name is Cross.”

Dream’s lips curled into a soft smile. “Cross.”
“I like it.”

Cross exhaled, looking away. 
“…It’s just a name.”

Dream chuckled. 
“Maybe. But names have meaning, don’t they?”

Cross didn’t respond, just staring out at the empty courtyard.

Dream didn’t press him, simply smiling as he leaned back against the ledge.

For the first time in a while, Cross didn’t mind the silence.

---

Blue hurried through the halls, arms wrapped tightly around a stack of documents as he made his way toward the records office.

The corridors were quiet, save for the faint flickering of lanterns lining the walls. Everything was going fine, until he turned a corner too quickly.

He barely had time to register the figure in front of him before-

Crash.

Blue stumbled back with a startled yelp, the force knocking him off balance. The documents scattered instantly, a flurry of parchment caught in the air like autumn leaves.

He landed ungracefully on the polished floor, eyes widening as he watched the papers float down the long hallway.

“Ah-! Oh no, the documents!”

Before he could scramble to his feet, a pair of gloved hands moved swiftly, catching several pages before they could drift further away.

Blue blinked in surprise.

Someone knelt before him, reaching for the fallen pages. Tall, with messy dark hair and striking red eyes, an unfamiliar face.

Blue quickly got to his knees, gathering the rest of the scattered documents. He took the ones offered to him, fingers brushing lightly against the stranger’s as he did.

He looked up, ready to thank them—only to freeze.

The man before him was quiet. Too quiet. His expression unreadable, his gaze locked onto Blue with an intensity that made the servant pause.

Something about him felt… off.

Blue cleared his throat, offering a polite smile despite the strange air around their meeting.

Unlike most people who would have spoken up by now, this man just… stared.

His gaze wasn’t cold, nor was it unfriendly. It was something else entirely.

Blue blinked, shifting awkwardly under the silent scrutiny, offering a polite smile despite the strange air around their meeting.'
“…Thank you. That was quick reflexes!"

The man didn’t answer immediately. He simply handed over the remaining papers, his movements slow, almost deliberate. 

The man handed the documents back, his fingers brushing against Blue’s for the briefest second.

Blue quickly pulled them to his chest. “…Are you alright?”

Still, the man didn’t move. He simply watched.

Blue hesitated. “…Do you need something?”

A pause. Then, in a quiet, almost lazy voice

“No.”

Blue narrowed his eyes. 'Then why are you just standing there?' 

The man tilted his head slightly, as if considering his answer. 
“…You talk a lot.”

Blue scowled. 
“And you don’t talk at all.”

A small smirk twitched at the man's lips, almost imperceptible.

Blue tilted his head. 
“Hmm… may I ask your name?”

The man hesitated for a moment before answering.

“…Dust.”

Blue nodded politely. “I see. I don’t believe we’ve met before. Are you new here?”

Dust didn’t respond right away. Instead, he seemed to be studying him.

Blue shifted under the weight of his gaze. It was strange, not threatening, but intense in a way he couldn’t quite place.

“…Yes.”

Blue gave a small smile. “Then I hope your work here is treating you well. If you ever need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask. ”

Dust just stared.

Blue cleared his throat. “…Well, I should be going. Thank you again for catching the documents, Dust!”

He turned to leave, expecting Dust to disappear into the halls.

But when he glanced back, he saw that the man was still standing there. Watching.

Blue shivered slightly. The interaction was… odd.

But in the end, he shook it off and continued down the hall.

Behind him, Dust remained still, his red eyes lingering on the spot where Blue had been.

For the first time in a long while, something in his chest stirred.

---

Back in the west wing, Cross stole another glance at Dream.

He still couldn’t shake the thought.

‘Is he really a…?’

Before he could stop himself, he blurted out-
“So, your job… does it, uh, involve entertaining nobles?”

Dream blinked. “You're really curious about my occupation hm? Well.. Entertaining? I suppose in a way-”

Cross felt his heart sink. ‘Oh no.’

Dream continued, completely unaware. “But mostly during the day, not the night. I prefer daylight hours.”

‘OH NO.’

Cross looked away, his face unreadable. ‘Poor guy… trapped in a life he didn’t choose…’

Dream, oblivious, just smiled at him.

Cross sighed.

‘I won’t judge you, Dream… I’ll protect you from this cruel world.’

Dream, still confused “…?”
'Why is he looking at me like that.. I have a bad feeling' 

Chapter Text

Blue let out a breath as he finally reached the records office, setting the stack of documents down on the desk with a relieved sigh. The odd encounter with Dust still lingered in his mind, but he quickly shook it off.

He had work to do.

As he began sorting through the papers, the door creaked open behind him.

Blue turned to see Ink lounging against the doorframe, arms crossed, an easy smirk playing at his lips. Dressed in finely embroidered noble attire, his mismatched eyes gleamed with amusement as he stepped inside.

"Took you long enough to notice," 
a familiar voice drawled.

"I didn’t know you kept track of my schedule, Lord Ink," 
Blue said, raising a brow as he returned to his task.

Ink gasped dramatically, pressing a hand to his chest. 
"Oh, but of course! How else would I make sure my favorite buddy isn’t being overworked?" 
He leaned over the desk, peering at the stack of documents. "Ugh, paperwork. You poor thing."

Blue rolled his eyes but couldn’t fight the small smile tugging at his lips. 
"If you pity me so much, you’re welcome to help."

Ink tapped his chin, pretending to consider it. 
"Mmm… tempting, but I think I’d rather supervise. I’m very good at that, you know."

Blue huffed a laugh. 
"Oh, I’m sure."

Ink pulled out a chair and plopped into it, resting his chin in his hands. 
"So, what are you drowning in today? Boring inventory lists? Tedious financial records? Scandalous royal secrets?"

"Mostly inventory." 
Blue picked up a quill and dipped it in ink, scribbling notes as he sorted the documents. 
"No scandals, I’m afraid."

Ink pouted. 
"Boring. When will things get exciting?" 

He suddenly perked up, eyes gleaming. 
"Oh! Speaking of excitement, are you going to enjoy yourself at the festival tomorrow, or will you be stuck in here counting crates?"

Blue blinked, caught off guard. 
"Festival?"

Ink waved a hand. 
"You know, the big one in the city? Fireworks, music, street performances—pure chaos, really. Sounds way more fun than whatever this is." He gestured vaguely at the papers.

Blue shook his head. 
"I know what a festival is. Though, I doubt I’ll have time for that. I have too much to do."

Ink leaned forward, stealing the quill from Blue’s fingers.

"Hey-!"

"Shhh," 
Ink shushed him, twirling the quill between his fingers. 
"You’re way too tense. You’ll get wrinkles before your time."

Blue scowled playfully. 
"Unlike you, some of us actually work."

Ink gasped again. 
"How dare you! I work very hard -at looking this good."

Blue groaned, rubbing his eyes. 
"Unbelievable."

--

Cross made his way down the dimly lit corridor, his steps steady, his mind wandering. 

His break was short, and the kitchen wasn’t far. Just a quick meal, then back to work.
As he turned a corner, hushed voices reached his ears. 

A group of maids stood near the staircase, their heads tilted together as they whispered. 

Their attention flicked toward a figure leaning lazily against the wall a short distance away.

The man stood out immediately. He had an air of effortless confidence, posture relaxed, almost bored. 

Silky strands of violet hair framed his sharp features, cascading past his shoulders like a curtain of dusk. His skin was pale, nearly luminous under the flickering torchlight, smooth as porcelain. 

But it was his eyes that stood out most—striking, deep magenta, heavy-lidded yet undeniably alluring, like they could unravel a person with a single glance.

His clothing was just as eye-catching—an elegant but revealing ensemble of dark, shimmering fabric that clung in all the right places. Not quite noble, not quite commoner. Something in between. Something meant to entice.

Cross didn’t slow his pace, but the murmured gossip from the maids reached his ears.

“They say he goes by Lust,” 
one whispered, barely hiding her giggle.

“What a fitting name, I heard he’s been with nobles before,” 
another said, voice tinged with both curiosity and scandal.

“Not just any nobles,” 
a third added, lowering her voice conspiratorially. 
“Some say even the royal family-”

Cross didn’t stop to listen. It wasn’t his business.

And yet, as he walked past, a thought flickered in his mind.

Dream.

The idea was absurd. He knew it was. Dream wasn’t… that.

Right?

Cross shook his head, banishing the thought before it could go any further.

Pushing open the heavy kitchen door, he stepped into the warm glow of flickering firelight and the rich scent of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and simmering stew. 

The comforting aroma wrapped around him like a thick blanket, momentarily pushing out the lingering thoughts.

The kitchen was alive with the rich scent of roasted meat, warm bread, and sweet spices. 

Cross leaned back in his chair, enjoying the rare moment of peace as he savored another bite of the meal in front of him.

Horror smirked from across the table, arms resting lazily on the surface as he watched Cross eat. 
“Good, huh?”

Cross swallowed, barely glancing up. 
“Tolerable.”

Horror snorted. 
“Yeah, yeah, sure. You’ve been inhaling that stew like you haven’t eaten in days.”

Cross ignored the jab, scooping up another spoonful. Horror was a damn good cook, and they both knew it.

As they ate, Horror leaned back with a satisfied sigh. 
“So, you got plans for tomorrow night?”

Cross raised a brow. 
“Tomorrow?”

Horror nodded. 
“Festival’s happening in the city. Big deal, lots of food, music, the usual.” He took another bite of his bread, chewing thoughtfully. “Could be fun.”

Cross gave a noncommittal shrug. 
“Not really my thing.”

“Pfft.” Horror smirked. 
“Yeah, sure. Don’t tell me you’re just gonna spend the night patrolling while the rest of the city parties?”

Cross grunted. 
“…Maybe.”

Horror shook his head, amused. 
“Well, I plan on going. With someone.”

Cross glanced up. 
“…Oh?”

Horror hummed, a knowing glint in his eye. 
“Mm-hmm.”

Cross narrowed his eyes. 
“Who?”

Horror chuckled, tearing off another piece of bread. 
“Wouldn’t you like to know?”

Cross scowled. 
“Just say it.”

Horror tilted his head, looking entirely too smug. 
“Let’s just say… someone pretty.”

Cross rolled his eyes. 
“Great. You’re being cryptic.”

Horror laughed, clearly enjoying himself. 
“Don’t worry about it.”

Cross exhaled, shaking his head before focusing back on his food.

But the thought lingered.

A festival. Crowds, lights, excitement.

His mind wandered—golden eyes, a mischievous smile, a voice full of laughter.

Before he could think too hard about it, the words slipped out.

“…Maybe I will go.”

Horror raised a brow. 
“Oh?”

Cross shifted in his seat. 
“No reason.”

Horror smirked, but let it slide. 
“Well, if you do, make sure you’ve got good company.”

Cross just hummed in response.

But he already knew exactly who he wanted to invite.

--

The grand halls of the palace were quiet at this hour, the flickering lanterns casting soft golden light against the marble floors. 

Prince Nightmare walked with steady, purposeful steps, his dark attire immaculate as always.

At the sound of approaching footsteps, he didn’t bother turning. Only one person was bold enough to stride so casually in his presence.

“You seem troubled, your Highness.”

Nightmare sighed, barely glancing at the figure now walking beside him. 
“And you seem incapable of minding your own business, Error.”

Error smirked. 
“Ah, but that would make life terribly dull, wouldn’t it?”

Nightmare didn’t dignify that with an answer. Instead, he kept his gaze forward, his hands clasped neatly behind his back. 
“Shouldn’t you be off irritating someone else?”

“Oh, believe me, I considered it.” 
Error tucked his hands into his coat pockets, his posture far more relaxed than one should have in the presence of a prince. 
“But then I thought, why not brighten my dear prince’s evening instead?”

Nightmare stopped walking, finally turning to give Error a flat look. 
“You are not brightening anything.”

Error hummed in amusement, leaning slightly against a nearby pillar. 
“Really? Then why haven’t you sent me away yet?”

Nightmare exhaled through his nose, choosing not to answer. 
Instead, he adjusted the cuffs of his gloves, his voice calm but firm. 
“If you have nothing of value to say, then I suggest you—”

“I hear the council meeting was insufferable today.”

Nightmare’s eye twitched.

Error’s grin widened. 
“That bad, huh?”

Nightmare pinched the bridge of his nose. 
“The level of incompetence I have to endure on a daily basis is astounding.”

“Well,” Error mused, 
“perhaps if you smiled at them every once in a while, they’d be less nervous and more efficient.”

Nightmare gave him a withering stare. 
“I am not smiling at them.”

“Pity. I’d pay a fortune to see it.”

Nightmare turned on his heel, already walking away. 
“Then prepare to die poor.”

Error chuckled, pushing off the pillar to follow at a leisurely pace. 
“You wound me, your Highness.”

Nightmare didn’t look back, but he didn’t stop him from following either.

Somehow, despite the irritation, he found that the palace halls felt a little less suffocating with Error around.

--

Cross sat beside the window in the west side of the castle, the cool night air brushing against his face. 

He had gotten used to meeting Dream here. The soft footsteps caught his attention, and he turned just in time to see Dream approaching.

"Heh, You’re late," 
Cross teased, crossing his arms as Dream settled beside him.

Dream adjusted the sleeves of his attire, offering a small, sheepish smile. 
"Oh my dearest apologies, I had to be careful. If anyone saw me slipping away, I’d never hear the end of it."

Cross chuckled, leaning back against the stone wall. 
"Guess that means I should feel honored you went through all that trouble just to see me?"

Dream tilted his head, his golden eyes warm. 
"Maybe you should be."
Dream merely smiled in response, looking up at the night sky. 
"So… how was your day?"

Cross sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. 
"Exhausting. But a friend made it bearable. He kept sneaking me extra food while I was on shift."

Dream tilted his head, curious. 
"Oh? And who might that friend be?"

Cross perked up. 
"Horror—he's the head chef. And let me tell you, he's a damn genius in the kitchen. Best cook in the castle, no competition. I swear, even the plainest bread tastes like a royal feast when he makes it. And he always gives me extra, like he thinks I’m starving or something."

Dream chuckled. 
"Sounds like he has a soft spot for you."

Cross smirked. 
"Of course he does. I mean, who wouldn't?"

Dream rolled his eyes fondly. 
"Humble as ever, I see."

"Of course. The man loves cooking way too much." 
Cross leaned back slightly, tilting his head toward Dream.
"Speaking of, he told me about this festival happening in the city tomorrow. It’s supposed to be huge—music, food, fireworks, all that stuff."

Dream perked up slightly. 
"Oh?"

"Yeah. I was thinking…" Cross hesitated, but then let a small smile creep onto his face. 
"You should come with me."

Dream blinked, caught off guard. 
"Y-You want me to go with you?"

Cross shrugged, trying to play it cool. 
"Why not? It’s a good excuse to actually relax for once. Besides, I think you’d like it."

Dream hesitated, glancing away. 
"I don’t know… I shouldn’t-"

"Come on," 
Cross nudged him lightly. 
"Just for a little while. No one’s gonna notice, and I’ll make sure you have fun. Consider it my way of making you take a break."

Dream, clearly torn, but after a long pause, he exhaled and smiled softly. 
"Alright. Just for a little while."

Cross grinned. 
"Good. I’ll even get you something sweet. Horror says the festival food is amazing."

Dream laughed. 
"You really know how to bribe people, don’t you?"

"Only the ones I like," 
Cross shot back with a wink.

Dream rolled his eyes, but there was warmth in his expression as they sat together under the night sky, the excitement of the festival now lingering between them.