#doublenootau

Corrupt is happy to see Nightmare comfortable in his tendril. Safe and sound and by the looks of it he seems well-rested.

Which makes Corrupt happy as it means he truly did feel safe enough to let himself rest.

Killer grins at him "Morning Moonlight."

Corrupt notices two of his mates already awake and chuckles "Morning you two." he makes sure to nuzzle both before looking at them and Nightmare at the same time. "How did you all sleep?"

Nightmare mutters a soft reply that he slept okay while Killer and Dust tell him they slept great as always.

Corrupt smiles as Horror gives asleepy mutter. Dust is quicker though as he leans over and kisses him as he sends a spark of magic to Horror.

Horror is immediantly more awake and mutters a soft thank you as Dust just shrugs.

Nightmare looks at Corrupt shocked as Corrupt looks at Horror "Horror? Are you okay wiht me explaining things to Nightmare?"

Horror blinks and looks over before nodding "Of course." a bit softer "Sorry for worrying you there. I am alright." with that said he nuzzles Dust again before giving both Killer and Corrupt their own nuzzles. "I was thinking eggs."

Killer looks excited "Oh i can help wtiht eh chickens!" and he gets out of bed together with Horror and the two walk off.

Ngihtmare looks at him anxiously "What is... is he okay? was he sick?" he rubs his hands together. Corrupt makes sure to make his tentacle into his hold and Nightmare starts kneading that instead.

Corrupt makes sure to keep his voice a bit down. Bot for Nightmare but also for Cross. Seeing as he is still asleep Corrupt thinks he overdid it the day before.

Corrupt starts to explain softly "Horror has a few physical conditions that we need to keep an eye on. We have this under control so you do not have to worry about it. The foremost one is his injury on his skull. It can cause him migraines and will always be sensitive." Not to forget that Horror is more sensitive to light. He can however see through camouflage which is helpful.

"Further his soul has gone through an starvation. If we are unable to take energy from food a monsters body will start going into survival modes. Which is when they won't make any magic or mana and store any magic left. This stored magic will be reused over and over again to make the monster able to move."

Ngihtmare frowns as he keeps looking at him. Waiting.

Corrupt sighs sadly "It is why his skull never healed. His body did not have the energy or magic available to heal. And the longer the starvation lasts the more consequences there are once a monster exists these survival modes."

Corrupt smiles "After we made him able to eat more and rest his body slowly started to recover and go out of survival mode. Sadly we noticed quickly he was unable to use magic aside from very minimal things. Furthermore we found out his body can no longer efficiently gain magic and mana from food and energy. Leaving him with the ened to eat very regularly to make sure his body has what it needs."

Mostly it is to make sure that his body doesn't get stressed and starts reusing the same magic again which can cause even more complications now that his body isn't saving energy and magic.

Nightmare frowns as he glances at the door "And a long ngiht is rough?"

Dust shrugs as he mutters "Not always. But some mornings his magic is a bit slower with waking up and becoming active. It is quicker and healthier for him to give him a little boost over letting his magic stress itself out."

Nightmare frowns as he gives a slow nod "and the.... kiss was giving this magic?"

Corrupt nods "It was. It doesn't need to be a kiss however. that is just Dust's personal preference."

Dust shoots him an unamused look but doesn't go against it. Probably because he doesn't want to explain he and Hroror found out on a mission that Horror can also get these moments and at the time they hadn't known a simple spark could be used.

Instead Dust had to quickly eat rations to partly transform it intt magic before transferring it to Horror.

This was well before they all started dating. Neither of them had been too excited about having to explain this situation in their reports.

Nightmare gives a slow nod "Oh.... okay... and he is okay?"

Dust nods "Horror is fine. He is though." he glances to the side.

Corrupt follows it and chuckles as he sees Cross look up confused as he yawns. Corrupt chuckles and mutters a soft "good morning" before giving his skulla kiss.

Cross stares confused before shooting upright "It is already morning?! I need to go train!"

Dust yawns lazily "You will miss breakfast if you do that now."

Cross looks annoyed at Dust "Why didn't you wake me?!"

Dust looks bored at him "Because you were once again hiding the fact you were exhausted. It was time for a long nap for you. after breakfast we can work out together."

Cross grumbles but doesn't go against it.

Nightmare is watching the interaction curiously as Corrupt just holds him clsoe in a little bundle of tentacles.

Corrupt hums "Dust is right. We will miss breakfast which will saddens Horror. After breakfast we can look through what you and Killer collected for Ngihtmare?" he offers it.

Cross immediantly looks more excited about that idea nad easily agrees as he gets up. Dust sighs but follows thier mate.

Leaving Nightmare nad Corrupt alone. Corrupt looks at the young skeleton "How are you feeling?"

Nigtmare seems to think for a moment before answering "I am... okay? I feel rested but... stuff aches?" he traces some of his bones through the soft sleeping shirt "Even when i know the wounds are gone it still hurts..."

Corrupt frowns and studies the bones Nightmare offers up for inspection. Corrupt gentle touches and presses against the bones but there are no flinches or any signs of pain.

There isn't... until Nightmare moves his own arm and his face pitches.

Corrupt frowns "We will need to look into that... first some food. Maybe your body jsut eneds more energy... Then we can ask Cross nad Dust."

Ngihtmare lets Corrupt pick him up and carry him out "Why them?"

Corrutp speaks as he brings them downstairs to the breakfast nook "Cross is out main healer. He has healing magic you see. Dust however knows the much about it even if his magic can't heal. Before Cross joined us he was the one who took care of us if we got hurt."

Ngihtmare blinks "oh... oh! is that why Dust knew what to do to help Horror at that mission?"

Corrupt nods and smiles "indeed. It is why i paired them up on missions. Both are very strong and compliment each others prefered fighting style in case of emergencies. But in the end Horror's skull could cause complications and Dust would be the best to send with him just in case." and it proved to be the correct choice as Dust managed to save Horror's life because of this knowledge.

They get to the breakfast nook and see the table already set and the others all seated.

Corrupt takes his seat and after a moment decides to just keep Nightmare in his left and arms. It is more stable for him and Corrupt just wants to be sure he is stable with his bdoy being sore.

His mates shoot him amused looks but don't mention anything.

horror serves the food and Corrupt is happy to note that Horror already seemed to have eaten a bit by the sight of the dirty plate. Corrupt shoots hima look but Horror waves him off. Clearly his larger mate feels fine.

Corrupt checks the food and spots eggs and omeletts all laid out for them. They all have glasses of milk set before them and fresh orange juice.

Corrupt thinks for a moment before figuring it out. Eggs for proteins but not too intense of a taste and an easy place to start with. ommelettes for the same reason but with some extra greens and vegetables in them. Milk to help boost their calcium and orange juice for much needed vitamins.

Corrupt smiles and shoots Horror a thankful look but Horror jsut give s gentle smile and a shake of his skull as he fills up his plate again.

Corrupt fills up his and Ngihtmare's shared plate and he starts helping and encouraging Ngihtmare to taste the food. His face lights up at the taste of the eggs and Corrupt smiles as Nightmare focusses on the different tastes and flavours.

Breakfast is spend talking about the plans for the day and if they need to do any trips to get anything. Horror mentions that they will be fine for food for a few weeks longer as their hens and gardens are growing beautifully. Ngihtmare feels intrigued about these but doesn't ask any questions.

Horror is about to clean up but Corrupt stops him "Let me."

Horror looks unsure as he sends him a look "You are busy."

Corrupt smiles "I will manage. You ened to rest. Go to the couch." the others will get the bags with Ngihtmare's stuff unpacked as Corrupt cleans. Horror doesn't deny it or challange it as he makes his way to the living room.

Nightmare frowns as he looks around "I... i don't think i can help... sorry."

Corrupt smiles at him "You don't need to." as he holds Nightmare in his arms as his tendrils clean everything around them. Moving things around and putting them in the dishwasher.

Ngihtmare stares in awe and Corrupt has to at least stay slightly focussed as he moves things around.

He does take the time to transfer Ngihtmare to his tentacles as he takes the time to wipe any surface down with his actual hands. Making sure he got every spot.

With the kitchen and breakfast nook clean he moves himself and nightmare to the living room.

The bags are paid out unto the table and Corrupt smiles. There is a pile of clothes and other necessaries. Further there are a few piles with books. He can spot some puzzles and drawing supplies.

Nightmare is shocked as he stares and can't seem to take everything in fast enough.

Corrupt gets them comfortable adn Killer takes the lead easily as he starts talking about what they found and which things the broguth back.

Almost all the things they brought back fits Ngihtmare just fine. the few exceptions are a bit too big and Corrupt hopes nightmare will grow into it nicely.

They make sure to test if the jacket fits him all right. Msotly because if they want to take him outside they want to be sure he is warm and comfy.

Nightmare stares in awe at the many books and is quick to hug the fiction books near. The cover shows a cat and something about warriors. Corrupt just knows tha tKiller picked it out.

They continue lookign through it all and Nightmare is overwhelmed. WHcih is why corrupt pauses the moment and check in on him "Are you okay? we can take a break if you want... it is a lot of new information."

Corss nad Killer look slightly embarrassed as they mentioned they got excited getting stuff for Nightmare.

Nightmare looks so unsure as he rubs his hands together "You didn't... need to... i didn't mean... i don't want to be... difficult... or a burden... or..." he looks down as he shakes lightly.

Corrupt remembers of course. the villagers always taking the few things Nightmar ehad. destroying his things and then telling dream that nightmare just lost it and look aren't they nice for replacing it?

Corrupt picks him up and holds him close "These are yours. you deserve to having nice things and to be able to enjoy them. we can make a corner and get a cabinet to keep your new things safe and in a spot where you can easily get them."

Ngihtmare rubs his sockets. Feeling embarrassed as he nods. Corrupt makes sure to keep him close as they all encourage him to pick a few things he wants to keep with him to play and relax with. Nightmare ends up jsut picking one of the books. All the othr stuff they makes sure is safely on the coffee table as they promise they will take the time together to look for a cabinet he likes and a spot he likes his stuff.

The clotehs they put in a drawer in Corrupt's room for now. Until a bit more time has passed and Nightmare feels safer. Then they can look into getting him his own room.

For now?

They move towards the training room togehter. Killer, Dust and Cross wish to work out and Corrupt likes to watch them.

And maybe after seeing them move Nightmare will feel a bit saver and a bit mroe protected.

*-------------------------*

Corrupt lays in his dark room. his mind still a mess.

He glances to the side and cant help but smile. Nightmare is sound asleep and in his sleep has started to hug one of Corrupt's tendrils.

Corrupt hums as he watches the young skeleton sleep peacefully. He seems completely out as he holds the tentacle. Corrupt wonders if it is just the busy day which made him this tired, or if Corrupt brings him enough comfort to be able to sleep peacefully.

Corrupt shakes his skull. No need to let those silly ideas take root. Nightmare is just tired after everything today.

Corrupt doesn't blame Nightmare for being exhausted after their day. Corrupt himself still needs time to progress all that happened and what all of it means.

Not just for Nightmare but for Corrupt.

Waht it makes Corrupt.

Because Corrupt isn't even sure anymore.

Where... where does this leave him? How is he even still here?

Corrupt had beleived. He had believed for so long that he had been a newer version of Nightmare. Not better. Never better. Just different. New. Strange. That by eating the apple. Nightmare had became the very thing the villagers had feared.

He had become corrupt.

Corrupt had those memories. He knew what those villagers had done to him, well Nightmare that is. How those disgusting and miserable people had hurt a child to a breaking point.

To the point where Nightmare prefered to eat one of the apples then be forced to hurt even longer.

Corrupt always tried to get the Nightmare in his own dreams to eat the apple earlier. from the first time one of those people was mean or evne rude to nightmare Corrupt would try and convince him.

Hoping that maybe in his dreams he would be on time to safe him.

Did... did this mean he had been on time? That he had shaped in time after all.

Does... does this mean that his purpose hadn't been to spread negativity or to hurt those mortals. but to protect nightmare?

Corrupt wonders if Nightmare had any pick in his shape or looks... did Corrupt look the way he did just because Nightmare's negative emotions impacted the apple? Did he look like this because nightmare wanted to be protected? like one of his few stories where the princess is tugged away and protected by a fierce dragon? Did corrupt get this look because that is what the villagers had feared? That the magic took the form that would intimidate the villagers the most?

Corrupt jsut... doesn't have the answers.

But he likes the idea. that he was made and created with a purpose to protect.

To protect Nightmare. and later, to protect his mates.

If he sees it as protection as his purpose it makes his behaviour make more sense as well.

Why else woudl he search for an empty universe to convert into his private universe?

Why edit in a large castle? with all the wings and decore? including a large forest to hide it even more?

Later when his mates joined him. Him editing his place his world to fit their needs better. to make sure to indulge any of their interests and to make sure that any improvement ideas they had were implemented to the best of his abilities? which is near perfection.

He had been making a home.

Not just a hideout. a hidden lair. or even an imposing castle.

He had been working on a home this whole time.

First just for Nightmare. Well himself and Nightmare. to follow those stories. where the princess was tugged away in a tower and protected. but he made it grander with giving nightmare a whole castle. worthy of a prince to his own king of darkness and negativity.

And it just became the castle of his mates as well.

Corrupt groans as he rubs his face, his mind and thoguhts kept going back to the same idea nad concept. and to him it makes sense. He thinks that is the case... from what he knows so far. it makes sense to him...

He is still unsure where that leaves him now. Why is he still here if his purpose is completed? He kept nightmare save. Nightmare is healed. and Nightmare has a perfect home where he will be save.

wasn't that what was his goal? his mission?

A soft knock and Corrupt looks at the door. He waits a moment but Nightmare remains asleep and so he answers "come in."

The door creaks a little open and Killer pokes his skull in as he whispers "He comfy?"

Corrupt chuckles and nods "He is asleep."

Killer grins as he rushes in. Somehow jumping on top of the bed without even making it bounce. Killer coos "Look at little moondrop."

Corrupt glares at him "Don't wake him up." Corrupt glances anxiously at the young skeleton but Nightmare is still out.

A chuckle and Corrupt turns just to see that Dust had also somehow joined them without being obvious "Kid is out like a light."

Corrupt sighs "I know but i want him to sleep so please be careful and quiet." he stresses the last word.

He hears the door close and a moment later two more forms join him. Cross remains near the side of the bed as he stares enchanted at them. Horror is closer and hums "You don't need to worry. He will remain asleep."

Cross looks over curiously as he whispers "How can you be sure?" Corrupt would also like to know.

Horror chuckles as he nudges the tentacle a bit closer and Nightmare hums contently before he starts to knead the tendril like he did at dinner.

Horror chuckles again as he looks back "I may not know him... but i know kids. Kids crash hard after a busy day. He? Is not going to wake up until his tiny battery fully recharged."

Corrupt frowns "He doens't have a battery."

Horror blinks but Killer grins as he hangs over Corrupt's shoulder "It is just a way of speech. it means the kid is just exhausted and needs to sleep."

Dust nods as he lays in the bed with a sigh "Think I will join his plan. Kid got a 500 year nap and wants to sleep again? I get it."

Corrupt shoots his mates a look "don't bother him."

Dust looks amused from his place next to the tiny bundle of tentacles and skeleton "Not like your tendril will let us touch him anyway, motherhen."

Killer grins and nods "Bunny is right! You are very portective of him. There is nothing getting to him." he grins wider and lays down dramatically "Not even us."

Corrupt feels his glare disappear from his face. He is about to deny it but can't. because he had been keeping him close and trying to get his mates to back away.

Corrupt frowns as he looks to the side. He didn't... he doesn't think his mates would endanger him. it is just... "I apologise... I know you four won't hurt him it is..." he can't explain it.

Killer looks over confused before looking guilty as he leans clsoer "Hey. it is okay Moonlight. I didn't mean it like a dig or anything."

Horror nods "You just had him today. of course you are feeling portective." he looks amused.

Corrupt goes to nod before the actual words settle and he shoots Horror a look "How often do i have to tell you i wasn't pregnant."

Dust hums from his spot in their bed "Then what would you clal the situation?"

Corrupt huffs "I was just carrying him in my bbody until he was ready to leave it when healed." easy. Not at all like-

All four of his mates give him looks.

Corrupt realises just how that sounded.

Corrupt glares "I was just... sharing energy, magic and nutrients while he was still a part of me..." he frowns as he thinks it over. trying to find other words to explain "... I wasn't pregnant."

Dust and Killer both laugh as Hroror just rubs his shoulder "We know. But it is the closest and easiest thing to compare it too."

Cross speaks up "Not to forget... it is normal and natural process... I think... It is probably good for him right? To hear what he went through has like... natural equals?"

Corrupt stops and considers that. Would... Would Nightmare feel more normal to have what he had gone through compared to the natural start of most monsters?

Dust nods "True. We know he is a treespirit... and well... We know how those villagers treated you." he shrugs.

Corrupt frowns as he looks away "Not me actually.. .I didn't form until the apple was eaten, at least not fully. All the memories i thought were mine were his." he lets the information hang in the air. Let his mates make the right conclusions themselves.

For all that their nosey and observant behaviour can be annoying. what with them being convinced that Corrupt needs rest and needs to sleep. It is also ratehr useful. It means Corrupt doens't have to spell everything out to them for them to get the bigger picture and for them to make the needed connections.

Cross throws up his arms "Who bullies a baby like that?! because his magic isn't right?!" then he slaps both his ahnds over his mouth and glances down at Nightmare.

Who remains sound asleep. unbothered by the world. letting out sleepy purrs as he sleeps on.

Cross stares before looking in shock at Horror. Horror grins "See? out like a light."

Killer grins "like a tiny nightlight! I like that as nickname! That and moondrop. I think both fit him."

Dust nods "To sprinkle in together with his normal name. Make some positive associations."

"Thank you."

his four mates stare at him slightly confused. Killer smiles abit but remains confused "Waht do you mean moonlight?"

Corrupt watches them. watches his four dear mates. "Thank you. I know this was confusing and I am still not even sure what happened or why or how... but you four have eben welcoming and understanding. You all are willing to adept to welcome him into our home and life. Thank you." It means more to him than he can explain. The same feeling as their connecting magic had given him.

Killer looks embarrassed, same for Cross as they mutter about it being no problem and just being decent mates. Horror gives him a nuzzle and kiss before getting comfortable in his usual spot "He is important to you. you are our mate. so he is important to us." and he sighs before grabbing dust to pull him close to cuddle with.

Dust just remains limp like a ragdoll as he is pulled over. he shrugs at the compliment before getting comfrotable. Corrupt reminds himself he will need to still give Dust a special thanks for making Nightmare able to relax before dinner.

Killer pouts and pushes him on his back. Corrupt shoots him an unimpressed look "Killer. There is an actual child in the room. behave." because he knows his mate.

Killer pouts "please. that is so not my aim. but you need to sleep as well. So. get comfy!" and Killer lays against his side wiht a happy hum. pushing his soul right against Corrupt's side and into his goop.

Corrupt sighs but smiles as he helps Killer adjest his position to free up his soul again "Love. Careful. you know that too much pressure or too long pressure can harm you." and he never. NEVER wants to harm what is his.

Killer purrs and looks up at him adoring "Always taking such good care of us."

Dust hums sleepily "agree."

Cross joins them as well and sighs as he holds a tentacle close himself "the best."

Horror gives all of them a nuzzle and kiss before going back to laying on the edge of the bed as he holds dust close as prisoner in his arms "without a doubt."

corrupt feels his soul swell with emotions and just love for his mates. he makes sure to move the tendrils still free to interlock around all his mates. keep them close to him.

"I love you all."

Corrupt enjoys the answering 'me too's.

He loves them all so much.

And his family is complete and close and all safe. and Corrupt is going to enjoy every second he has with them.

*------------------------------*

There... There is a tiny skeleton in his arms. A shaking and terrified skeleton. Corrupt glances around and very slowly places the skeleton on the couch. Only to have to dive back closer to catch him from falling over. Corrupt ends up putting Nightmare in the corner of the couch to enable him to lean against two sides.

There... Is a child. In his house.

One he had thought had died. Correction. One Corrupt had thought he had killed.

What... What does he do now?

Corrupt had reacted impulsive. He doesn't actually have a plan. He just knew he had to get himself and his mates away from the Stars, even if he already felt much better.

Okay. He needs to focus.

Corrupt needs to check his mates and make sure they are okay. Needs to make sure the Stars didn't hurt any of them while he crumbled.

Why is it so hard to look away from Nightmare? Corrupt can't look away. He keeps staring at the young skeleton.

He looks scared as he looks around the area. Pushing himself back against the couch as his chest moves quickly wiht his fast breathing. His clothes are absolutely filthy and goop isn't even the thing that makes it most dirty. Not there is still old dust and blood on his clothes which are ripped and also covered in mud.

But the bones? While also covered with dirt there isn't even a scratch on Nightmare. Which surprises Corrupt. Nightmare had his skull smashed in. Had suffered years of abuse of those villagers. Yet here he sits. Whole. Not as much as a bruise on him.

The only thing that seems wrong is that Nightmare seems to have lost control over his body, but he had also been inactive for 500 years so this may more be a matter of him having to relearn how to walk and move..

Okay. Stop. Think. Waht do you know for sure?

Corrupt just... split in two and Nightmare was removed from his being. Aparently he had Nightmare resting in his body since the apple accident. Maybe instead of forming from Nightmare he formed around Nightmare... it would explain why Corrupt never actually saw Nightmare or dust from him. Corrupt had always assumed that Nightmare hadn't dusted because of his treespirit nature.

Now.

Nightmare had been in his body, aparently slowly healing, and is now out of his body. Corrupt frowns. How come that he has Nightmare's memories in that case? Is it because Nightmare was the one to eat the apple? Does that mean that all those things he remembers and remembered feeling was all Nightmare and never his own.

Corrupt takes another depe breath to try and stay focussed. He still glances to make sure Nightmare is still where he left him. He is.

Okay. Corrupt will ahve to think about everything that this means later. Now he has to make sure everyone is okay... also make sure that Nightmare gets clean and situated. It... unnerves him to not have Nightmare with him. Corrupt doesn't knwo a lot but knows his being misses having Nightmare close.

"Euh... Moonlight?"

Corrupt frowns and turns slowly.

Killer looks between Nightmare and Corrupt "You know... I know we aren't always the most... serious bunch... but you could have told us you were pregnant... we could have handled it and could have helped."

It takes amoment before Corrupt sputters and glares at one of his mates "I wasn't pregnant!" He snaps but sees Ngihtmare flinch at the sound. Corrupt mentally decides to not shout anymore.

Killer just raises a brow as he crosses his arms before looking pointly at Nightmare "Really? Because that is a whole ass child-"

Cross shoots him a disapproving look "Don't curse!"

Killer blinks and looks over "The kid is already like... eight?" he tilts his skull at Nightmare.

Nightmare however shrinks in on himself as he tries to disappear into the couch.

Corrupt answers instead "He is ten actually. Just... tiny." he frowns. aparently Nightmare is just short? Corrupt himself is also short and he took some of his appearances over from Nightmare...

Killer frowns "Wait... ten years? How long have we all been together?" He looks very disappointed "We aren't the dads?"

Corrupt sputters again but manages to keep his voice down "I wasn't pregnant."

Horror speaks up as he glances up from his phone "According to the definition of giving birth which is: The emergence of a baby or other young from the body of its mother; the start of life as a physically separate being." Horror waves into the direction of Ngihtmare "Young." and he just looks pointedly at Corrupt.

Corrupt sighs as he rubs his face "I wasn't pregnant. I didn't give birth." he looks at Nightmare and frowns "I didn't even... i thought he was dead..." Nightmare stares back at him but gets a tiny frown on his face. Corrupt isn't sure what is on his face... probably grief. there always is grief when he thought about Nightmare.

Cross joins his side and holds his hand "hey... you could also have told us you miscarriaged... We could have helped..." he smiles.

Corrupt rubs his skull as he shakes his skull "No. I wasn't pregnant... Meet... Nightmare." Ngihtmare flinches at his name and when the others all start staring at him. Shit. Corrupt regrets that...

Dust frowns "I thought you said..."

Corrupt groans as he takes a deep sigh "I know... I know what i said. I thought the same. This is also very much a surprise for me."

"how do you know my name?"

silence and Crorupt looks back at Nightmare. Ngihtmare still looks terrified. He is obviously terrified. but he has a very tiny stubborn glare on his face. One hand has formed a fist and is shaking sligthly. Nightmare keeps staring at Corrupt specifically.

Corrupt blinks and speaks softly "I.... What do you remember?" does he remember everything that Corrupt remembered?

Nightmare frowns as he thinks before looks at Corrupt distrusting "You first. What do you know?"

Killer snorts "suspicious little fellow." he points at Corrupt "That is corrupt. I am Killer." he points everyone out as he names everyone. Corrupt is watching closely and can see more and more panick appear in Ngihtmare's posture as each name is given.

right... Very unfriendly names. Corrupt now regrets not agreeing to taking a friendlier name. He makes the decision as he walks over to Nightmare and takes a seat before him. He makes sure to keep his tentacles low but not to hide them, same for his arms.

Hidden limbs can attack him and hurt him. This way Nightmare can keep and easy eye on everything.

Corrupt speaks softly, making sure to keep his voice soft and quiet just in case "I must admit I am not quite sure myself anymore. I am Corrupt. When you ate the apple of the tree I formed. I always believed that you had died and I formed from that moment with the apple's magic and power... I was unaware you were with me the whole time. How are you feeling? What do you remember?" and he waits. He knows this is a lot of information.

Nightmare frowns as he looks down slightly. Thinking. He looks at his hand and frowns as he touches some of his fingers. Corrupt follows the sight and knows why Nightmare must be confused. The villages had smashed his phalanges with a large bat just days before the apple incident. Those breaks should have been there still.

Nightmare forms a fist again as he holds said hand with his other "I... I think i... remember eating it..." he frowns more before flinching. Corrupt frowns and looks over his shoulder. Right.

He sighs "Loves. please back up a tiny bit." the four had started to gravitate closer but they seem to realise the problem. They give some quiet sorries and back up a bit.

Corrupt looks amused at them before motioning towards the other couches and chairs "Just sit down for a moment." He first needs to get Ngihtmare to relax just a tiny bit. Corrupt doubts he can move alright just yet and Corrupt wants him to be at least a bit calmer before he tries to ask if Nightmare wnats to get clean.

His mates luckily all listen and sit down and get comfortable as they start checking each other. Corrupt smiles, that is good. This way he is at least sure that they are all alright and no one is hurt.

Corrupt turns back to Nightmare who is staring at him. But he looks away as soon as Corrupt looks at him. Corrupt chuckles "It is alright... I can only imagine I must look very strange to you."

Ngihtmare shrugs and mutters "Not... that weird..." he grins a tiny bit as he glances up at him "I am a treespirit..."

Corrupt chcukles and nods "true..."

Nightmare glances to the side and Corrupt realises what Nightmare must be glancing it. Corrupt slowly makes one of his tentacles raise a little and makes it wave.

Nightmare blinks and looks at Corrupt "Are those..."

Corrupt nods "They are... made of negative energy." he brings it closer "We got that in common. Both of us have powers connected to the more negative things to feel." he lets the tendril hover near Nightmare.

Nightmare stares at it before very slowly touching the tendril. As soon as he touches it the negativity and magic in his being reacts. Because the area around the tendril starts to shine and show of cyan coloured swirls.

Nightmare stares and starts to smile "wow... I didn't know my stuff could be pretty..." he touches one of the shown swirls wiht his other hands and the area of effect expands a tiny bit.

Corrupt nods as he mutters "Even if everyone looks down on negativity. It has its good adn beautiful sides. Everything has, including the negative emotions."

Nightmar elooks unconvinced and that doesn't surprise Corrupt. Nightmare is used to being harrassed, bullied, hurt and abused over what he was connected to. His powers and role only every brough him pain.

Maybe Corrupt can at least show him the more beautiful side of their emotional powers. Show it is a part of healing and growth. That it has a connection to justice and protecting others.

Nightmare ends up focussing back on the tentacle in front of him and watching their magic react to one another. Familiar and calm. Both magicks seem to know the other and it helps Ngihtmare feel safe.

Some movement by his side and Corrupt watches as Cross is now near him before sitting on the ground with his back against the couch. Ngihtamre shoots him a look for a moment before calming down when the other's attention isn't on him. Nightmare turns back to the tentacle.

Cross looks over nervously before turning to Corrupt "what... what is the plan? are we just... going to..." he shoots Ngihtmare a look "Can we just keep him?"

Nightmare freezes and grabs the tentacle tighter.

Corrupt frowns as he looks at Nightmare. The idea... of leaving him somewhere? No... they can't just leave him somewhere.

Cross rubs his arm as he continues to speak "Like... I am not... sure how good I am at this dad thing?" he cringes "But I can learn! probably." he grins as he looks nervous.

Killer laughs as he lounges on the other couch, obviously watching them "I mean. I think this one is dips for either Horror or Dust. You know. Cyan of Cors and red of either of them makes purple for little nightlight."

Corrupt shoots Killer a glare "I wasn't pregnant."

horror hums and nods "Dust then. I don't have enough magic to get anyone pregnant."

Dust shrugs "Cool. I am upper-dad."

Killer grins "It has been decided!" and he throws his arms out with a laugh.

Corrupt sighs deeply as he looks back at Nightmare however just looks at the other four. Looking a tiny bit more relaxed and with a slightly tilted skull.

Corrupt speaks softly "Are you okay with staying here for a little bit? I swear to you that no one will harm you here, ever." It is why he made this place. it was a place of safety and shelter. For himself and those he holds so dear.

Nightmare looks at him, looks at the others, then looks at where their magicks interact and strengthen each other. Nightmare frowns but nods "Okay..."

Corrupt smiles "Thank you." he looks at his mates "How do you four feel?"

Killer grins "A bit tired but nothing too bad."

Cross nods and sits up straight "We are ready to do whatever!"

Corrupt sees both Horror and Dust give their own okays before nodding "Cross and Killer, can you two go to Littletale and get some supplies? We will need clothes foremost but anything that can fit a ten year old is helpful." furniture will come later once they figure out which room is right for the tiny prince-

Oh... Corrupt is already considering calling him prince compared to his own king title...

Maybe his mates have a point about how this whole situation happened. He does feel very protective over Nightmare... Again things to consider when he has the time.

He focusses on the mission "Dust. If you can go around the castle and secure the place. Make it safer." a glance confirms that Dust shoots their training room a look before nodding. He had figured Dust would understand what he meant without having to point out how many weapons they have, which will just make Ngihtmare nervous.

He looks at Horror "Love?"

Horror grins and nods "I will be in the kitchen. Allergies?"

Corrupt shakes his skull and looks at Nightmare "Not that i can remember... Nightmare? Are there any things you don't like the taste or texture off?"

Nightmare looks confused "texture?"

Corrupt smiles "Well yeah... I know I dislike either quite a few things that feel strange to me to eat. Anything you don't like?"

Nightmare thinks before speaking "I don't like.... mushy stuff? feels weird to chew..."

Corrupt looks at Horror and Horror nods before looking at Nightmare "Anything you like?"

Nightmare blinks and actually focusses on Horror for a moment. His hold on his tentacle tightens but seems to relax when he sees that Horror just waits as he stays in place and doesn't get closer.

Nightmare looks away and shrugs "Don't have stuff that i really like..." he rubs the tentacle. maybe it helps to sooth him?

Horror nods "Fair enough. We will have to get you to taste test a few things to see what you like." and he walks off before he can get a reply.

The others had already quietly left the room which Ngihtmare registers as he looks around soft "They move quiet..."

Corrupt nods "I know. I hardly ever hear them. I notice them by sensing their emotions more than anything."

Nightmare looks up unsure "They... they won't get mad? Others always get mad when i... used that..."

Corrupt smiles and shakes his skull "They won't... Will you let me help you get cleaned up?"

Ngihtmare blinks and looks down only to stare at the mess he is. Clearly not having realised that "Oh... euh..." he looks unsure as he looks hard at Corrupt "You... ARe you the one who spoke to me?"

Corrupt frowns as he tilts his skull "spoke?"

Nightmare nods as he rubs his hand "When... whenever i was sad and scared... I always heard this voice... it was very quiet and begged me to stay near... let them help... Was that you?"

Corrupt frowns as he thinks back. trying to remember the voice that Nightmare speaks off. But he can't remember those moments... What he does remember instead are his dream. showing the other side of the same conversation. Corrupt looks at Nightmare "I must admit I am unsure myself. I do not have memories of my own from before you ate the apple. I do... however... have your memories. For a long time i beleived those to be my own."

Nightmare looks away ashamed and mutters "oh...."

Corrupt shakes his skull "You don't need to be ashamed... you are a child... you shouldn't have had the pressure on you that was placed on you... and those who hurt you... they are the ones who are wrong. You never did anything wrong."

Ngihtmare nods but looks sad "I... I thought you were that voice... you sounded familiar and... I felt like i knew you."

Corrupt frowns and speaks sfotly "There are however dreams i had. Dreams that I wasn't you. But looking on from the outside... unable to assist. But I wanted to help you."

Nightmare thinks it over before looking at Corrupt and nods "okay... I would like being clean..."

Corrupt smiles and carefully picks Nightmare up. Noticing now that any goop touching any bones on Ngihtmare causes the same effect as the touches to the tentacles had caused. He hadn't noticed in his panic before.

Corrupt slowly leaves the living room and goes towards the hall before going up the stairs. As he walks he points at each room and area as he softly explains what is what. Ngihtmare looks around in shock and mutters about it being an actual castle. Corrupt smiles as he feels the excitement slowly start to appear in the younger empath.

They get to Corrupts room and he takes Ngihtmare towards the bathroom. Ngihtmare looks around confused as his hold tightens "what?"

Corrupt speaks softly as he explaisn how the bathroom works before turning on the tab of the bath. Letting Nightmare feel the water before making sure the water is nice and comfortable. He lets Ngihtmare sit by the water and play wiht it as he goes to look through the soaps and brushes. Getting everything needed to help clean up the young skeleton.

It only takes a moment before Corrupt returns to Nightmare's side. Ngihtmare looks nervous at him before looking at the water "will... will the water hurt you?"

corrupt stops and stares at Ngihtmare. He had expected th young skeleton to be worried about being exposed and naked in front of someone he didn't know. instead he is worried about Corrupt.

Corrupt smiles "I will be fine. Water does not bother me." to show he puts his hand in the water and shows how his goop just doesnt'mix with the water, all the rises off him was some old dirt from the battle. Nightmare looks at it curiously and touches it. the goop still lights up when their magic meets.

Ngihtmare frowns "why does it do that?"

Corrupt hums and shrugs "I can only assume it is because our magics have a similar source. it recognises each other as-" family. He manages to stop himself.

Nightmare tilts his skull as he stares at him. a tiny smile appears on his face "I already got a mom though."

Corrupt sighs and looks at the younger monster "please don't start to. I already have four of them doing that joke."

Nightmare chuckles before looking at the water "Bath time?"

Corrupt nods and gently helps Ngihtmare out of his dirty clothes and into the water. Ngihtmare hums happily and relaxes. Corrupt looks him over but doens't see any scars or marks of the past wounds. completely healed.

Corrupt smiles "You really are healed..." It makes it worth it. Makes it worth having to experience the pain of Ngihtmare splitting from his body.

Nightmare looks in awe at his body "You healed me... You kept your promise."

Corrupt frowns as he starts helping the younger monster bath as he still can't quite move right yet "What do you mean?"

Ngihtmare hums as he relaxes into his hold, full trust "The voice... it said that if i just gave in. To accept help. That the pain would stop." he smiles "You stopped the pain."

Corrupt looks at him before smiling "I am happy I was able to help you. I was worried before... That i had hurt you... that eating the apple to make me, destroyed you."

Nightmare keeps looking at him. Some suspicion in his feelings before he relaxes and smiles back. believing him. Why would Nightmare just believe Corrupt on his word-

Oh... of course...

Nightmare and Corrupt are both empaths. They can feel the other and feel that they are both honest. That they don't want to hurt each other.

That is what the trust is build upon. Something that was clear instantly from their first interaction.

After that Corrupt just helps Nightmare get clean as Ngihtmare uses the water to slwoly move his limbs.

Nightmare looks unhappy with the uneasy movement.

Corrupt chcukles "You were asleep for a long time Nightmare. It will take some time before you regain your full movement again."

Nightmare looks at him "Why... why did Drema shoot you?" he looks so confused "Your magic is like mine... why would he attack you?"

Corrupt stops and sighs "Your brother hates me. Because He thought I killed you."

Nightmare frowns as he looks up at him "But... you didn't... it was.. them... the villagers... not you..." he frowns "did you tell Dream that?"

Corrupt sighs "I tried to explain it to him a long time ago... He didn't beleive me."

Nightmare just looks sad as he leans heavily into his hold "He never believed me either."

Corrupt frowns "I am sorry."

Nightmare shrugs as he moves the dirty water around "I am used to it..."

Corrupt rubs his shoulders "People believe what you say here. I promise. They will listen to you."

Nightmare frowns before nodding "okay."

Corrupt nods before smiling "Ready to get dressed?"

Nightmare frowns at the sad pile of clothes "i guess?"

Corrupt shakes his skull and stands up "You are comfortable right? stable? No leanign to the side?"

Ngihtmare looks unsure but nods "I am okay... No one will get in?"

Corrupt nods "no one will bother you." Ngihtmare accepts it and Corrupt quickly goes ot his closet and reaches around. It doesn't take long before finding a soft sweater and some sweats. He returns to the bathroom and helps Ngihtmare dry off before helping him get dressed.

Clean and comfrotable safely in his arms.

Corrupt looks at Nightmare "ready to get some food?"

Nightmare looks at him before nodding "okay."

Corrupt leaves his room and goes towards the kitchen to meet up with one of his mates. Hopefully the others will like and accept Nightmare as easily as Corrupt did.

*--------------------*

Nightmare hums sleepily. He is slightly confused. The ground is never this soft and he doesn't feel that branch poke him in the ribs. He also can't feel his mother or brother near but... he isn't alone.

Being alone means danger as that is when the villagers come to hurt him. To hurt him and punish him for everything that goes wrong in their lives. Nightmare is still not sure how he could have caused some of them to get sick or even die. But the villagers always say it is his fault so maybe it is?

But he isn't alone.

It is warm and comfortable and he hears others breathing nearby as he snuggles into whatever he is laying against. It is warm and just feels familiar.

He would love to keep sleeping for longer but he needs to wake up. He has the tree to protect and if Dream is already out it is a matter of time before they come.

He yawns as he rubs his sockets. He takes his time to stretch along the soft thing circling him. Before trying to sit up.

Keyword. Try.

Because he just.. can't get his limps do push himself up. He can't figure out how to make everything work and move... huh?

He opens his sockets and pauses. That... that is a ceiling? He never sleeps inside though? why is there a ceiling?

Nightmare looks around and spots the dark tentacle around him. Sees where it is lit up such a pretty cyan where he is touching it.

and he remembers.

remembers all about well... yesterday aparently.

Nightmare turns his skull to the other side and spots Corrupt. sound asleep and his tentacles all around. One is circling himself but the other three are all connected to those skeletons that Nightmare met the day before.

Right... Corrupt loved them a lot. Nightmare had held the adoration they all shared between one another. It was so deep and all consuming that Nightmare couldn't help but stare and watch the skeletons. How could monsters feel such strong emotions the whole time and just feel okay?

Nightmare shoots Corrupt another look and tilts his skull. Nightmare isn't sure why he trusts the other so much. He just. He could feel the honesty. the care. How could Nightmare not believe that honesty?

It makes it even stranger that Dream dislikes Corrupt so much. Drema should have felt the same right? felt that corrupt was honest and meant everything? that corrupt loved deeply? that... that when corrupt spoke about hurting Nightmare he only felt grief, regret and sad?

why would Dream not see that? He always saw the best in those villagers.

...

Seems like Dream can excuse the actual people hurting and killing him but someone stepping in to continue his duty is a step too far...

Nightmare's soul hurts with that thought but before he can even consider what to do the tentacle wraps tighter around him and Corrupt mutters unhappily as he pulls him closer.

He is embraced by all that love and care all over again and Nightmare guiltily leans fully into the hold. Trying to soak everything up. Even if it isn't meant for him.

Them inviting him to stay had been a shock. and Now that Nightmare had time to really think about it since just ending up on their couch. He is so lucky they are willing to let him stay. Especially as people tend to hate him.

He had tried so ahrd to be friendly and be right and normal. But it is so hard. Becuase Corrupt would just read him and help him feel easy and then Nightmare starts to pay attention to how Corrupt feels and it just... is nice. So nice and safe.

The other skeletons are... weird but nice he thinks. They are so different than the people he is used to.

Nightmare hears a yawn and stays frozen. That is the one with black tears. He is sitting up and yawning? BUt Ngihtmare thought this was Corrupt's room and-

Oh. Of course. they are like. together together. Wait are they married? Nightmare knows the villagers did a marriage thing but did corrupt marriage these four? wait can that many people marry one another?

Ngihtmare wishes Dream was here. Dream knew these type of things but well... Dream doesn't like Corrupt of the other skeletons aparently-

"oh shit- I mean hi."

Nightmare blinsk and looks up to see the one wiht black tears staring at him. Seemingly frozen met stretch as he stares at him.

Nightmare leans further intot he tentacle "... hi... Killer?" right?

Maybe Killer blinks before smilign brightly and laying back down. He pulls a pillow over and lays on it with his skull and they can just see each other over the edge "that is me." he grins "How was your first night here tiny nightlight?"

Nightmare searches for the right words. He can't jsut say this is the best sleep he has had for a long time. That he feels warm and nice and comfortable. That is weird... He only just got here. Nightmare realises he has been quiet for way to long and mutters a quick answer "It was nice."

Killer grins and nods "Yeah I know. Moon's bed is so comfy and nice." he sighs happily.

Nightmare frowns "Why do you call him that?" Corrupt's name is corrupt right? wait "why do you keep calling me nightlight. I am nightmare." he waits for him to talk about how his name is wrong or a bad omen or-

Killer snorts "yeah i know. but that is why nicknames are for little moondrop." he grins "I give nicknames to everyone. same for big guy."

Nightmare blinks but shoots the giant with the cracked skull a look. Horror right?

Killer grins and nods.

Ngihtmare looks away embarrassed. How did he notice his glance? Was he that obvious- no wait. didn't Corrupt say that they were all very observant? oh no they will realise something is wrong with him even quicker! What does he do?!

The tentacle tightens around him again as Killer makes soft hushing noises "ssh shsh it is okay. i know it is still strange. Everything is new and scary and we are a lot." he smiles "But you are you like Moon is moon. it will be okay."

Nightmare turns a bit clsoer to the tendril. feeling safe with a cyan light shining from it. he traces a few of the swirls and feels a bit better. They are connected. their magic works together. so even if he is weird they will accept him right? because the love Corrupt so much, and nightmare is connected to Corrupt in some way.

Or would they end up hating him because they fear he took power from him?

Killer sighs "Corrupt's magic is always so fucking pretty. Oh shit don't tell the others I cursed near you."

Ngihtmare shoots him a look and looks at the cyan himself "It is very pretty..." he likes cyan. It is a nice colour. Not like his ugly purple. Everyone agreed his magic was pale and seemed darker. Not shining like his brother had had. Dream had the most beautiful magic and Nightmare always wished his own had been more like Dream's.

Killer nods "It is gorgeous. The blue is so pretty and it is always atreat when he see it." he grins at him "Do you also have cyan?"

Nightmare freezes and shakes his skull. He doens't. No use to lie.

Killer looks excited "oh which colour is it?"

Ngihtamre shrugs before he mutters "it isn't pretty like Corrupt's." there. That should do it right? No need to pay attention to it. Maybe this way he doens't ever have to show it and can jsut enjoy the bright shine he helps bring out in Corrupt's magic!

Killer jsut looks excited "Oh i am sure it is pretty. like all magic is pretty." he grins.

Ngihtmare shurgs as he just lays further against Corrupt. feeling safe there. He is safe there. Corrupt promised he would be safe.

Kilelr frowns at him and Nightmare immediantly looks away. Oh no. Did... did he make a mistake by dodging the question? did he mess up? did... did refusing make him angry?

"hi." Ngihtmare can't help but flinch before feeling bad about doing that. Killer is speaking softly as he looks at him "it is okay... I am sorry if i pushed... my mates often tell me I can get too excited and I am not the best at noticing boundaries." he grins and winks with his tongue sticking out "you can just tell me to shut up or leave you alone okay? I get it. No hard feelings."

Ngihtmare jsut stares at the other. partly shock and partly disbelieve. really? he won't get mad if nightmare says no? or tells him to leave? Nightmare finds that hard to believe.

Suddenly a hand appears and tugs Killer's blanket over his skull. Killer yelps as Dust sits up wiht a yawn and annoyed look "You woke me Killer." and he pushes him over. He glances at Nightmare before frowning at Killer "And give him some space. he is still new."

Killer pouts at Dust "I am great to new people."

Dust looks unamused "I was new once. I disagree."

Ngihtmare watches them interact. They are talking and killer pouts and dust looks annoyed but neither actually feel sad or mad. Just. familiarity. This is normal? they always do this?

Dust looks at Ngihtmare "How did you sleep?"

Ngihtmare shrugs and mutters "it was nice." this answer worked last time.

Dust yawns "That is good. We thought maybe sleeping somewhere new woudl make it hard for you to rest."

see? it is weird he would have been relaxed and felt safe. it is good he just said nice and-

"We hoped of course you would sleep well. But new places can awlays be a bit rough." Dust stretches and scoots to the side of the bed only to pause. he glances down and ngihtmare checks as well. it is a tentacle wrapped around him.

Dust hums "Seems like it is nap time." and he just lays back and clsoes his sockets again.

Nightmare blinks as Killer snorts and hugs the other "sounds like a plan." and he gets comfortable. Neither actually fall asleep as they just start to have quiet conversations.

Ngihtmare goes back to leaning against Corrupt as he listens. something about a game they played and one of the cheating. then about some trip and later about chores.

It is nice. It is just background noise.

Corrupt stirs and hums as he opens his sockets.

Ngithmare watches as Corrupt spots him. Corrupt freezes for a moment with clear confusion before it changes to understanding and then-

nightmare feels hismelf relax. the warm look of before is back.

Maybe things will be oaky. The skeletons are nice and Corrupt still wants him around.

And if he is even half as safe as Corrupt promised than he will be more than happy to stay as long as Corrupt lets him.

*----------------------------------------------*