#realageau

How did Nightmare ended up in this AU ? Did he open the wrong portal again ? He wasn't at the supermarket, he was standing in front of a farm. Was he in Farmtale ? No, he had already been to Farmtale multiple times, he would have recognized the magical signature of the universe. A new timeline maybe ? One he hadn't explored yet ? Maybe... but he didn't have time to explore it, he left the castle to go grocery shopping for his four boys, and he couldn't just leave them alone for too long or else they would make a mess in the house again. He didn't want to clean up tonight.

He sighed, turning around, but as he lifted his hand to summon a new portal he saw someone, well, not someone, himself, he saw himself standing in front of him, himself from when he was six with his bright lavender eyelights and white bones... what was he doing here ? It wasn't his AU, why wasn't he in Dreamtale ? Did he get ejected from his AU ? Did the AU collapsed and this Nightmare found himself in this timeline as an outcode ? It wasn't his place, it wasn't a place for a child... he looked at his portal... the groceries will have to wait, he couldn't just leave him there, when he was his age he would have killed for someone to take care of him, if he could give that to this tiny version of him, he would do it, especially since the apple incident visibly didn't happen yet. No one saved him, but he would be the one to save himself.

The little Nightmare on the other side... did not expect to be grabbed by this adult corrupted version of himself, like, at all. It was a nice day today, Horror told him he could play in the backyard while he was making dinner, it was supposed to be safe, he was just behind the house after all. When a portal opened he quickly got up with excitement, thinking it was Error paying him a visit, but it wasn't, since he found himself standing un front of, well, himself, but an adult version of himself, a real adult version. He didn't know what to say. What did that mean ? Was their AU, their home, under attack ? Was this Nightmare's gang, if he had one, going to make an entrance too ? Did the multiverse simply replace him since he wasn't fulfilling his guardian role anymore ? He didn't understand. And what he also didn't understand was why the adult just grabbed him out of nowhere to cross the portal again. Was he allowed to leave this AU ? Probably not. But he also wasn't allowed to follow strangers and technically the adult wasn't exactly a stranger. Plus it wasn't his fault, he didn't even follow him, and he wasn't sensing any vile intention from him either, so he would probably be fine, it would just be a small trip, he would be back before dinner !

On the other side of the portal Nightmare recognized the castle, it was practically the same as his, which made sense because since they were alternative versions of each other it was logical for them to choose the same place to live. He wondered if the gang was the same as his or if he picked different versions, maybe they came from a Fell universe ?

- Boys I'm back !

The adult called, closing his portal with one hand, holding the child against his chest with his other arm. Nightmare turned to look as he heard rapid, and little, footsteps coming from the hallway.

- Dad !

An excited high voice yelled as a small skeleton entered the room, not older than six years old, he had tar leaking from his eyesockets. Nightmare recognized him immediately despite his surprise: Killer was a kid ? Another skeleton followed, arriving just as fast as Killer and bumping into him, this one had a hoodie on with mismatched eyelights: Dust, who looked the same age as Killer. The two children rolled together on the ground, none of them looked hurt and judging by the sigh the adult let out it was most likely an habit for them. Nightmare looked at them, now fully expecting everyone to be a kid, and his theory was soon confirmed as the two remaining skeletons entered, much more calm than the previous two: Horror, who looked older than the others, maybe eight, was holding a little Cross by the hand, he looked four. So this Nightmare's gang were kids... he had heard about some AUs where he would take care of his gang as children, Dadmare and Mommymare AUs, if he remembered correctly, and since Killer called him "dad" he was pretty sure this one was a Dadmare AU, which meant this was one of the safest AU he could have ended up in with Dadmares usually being pretty chill.

- Who's this ?!

Killer asked as he got up, spotting the tiny Nightmare in his dad's arm. The adult kneeled so all the children would be on the same level.

- He's your new friend, his name is.. uh..

- Night.

Night answered before the adult could come up with anything. He didn't particularly want to change his name, but two Nightmares would be confusing and he didn't want anyone to choose how people called him, this choice was his to make, and "Night" wasn't that far from his real name.

The four kids looked at him with different level of curiosity, out of everyone Killer was the most excited to have a new friend.

- My name is Killer ! This is Dust, this is Horror and this is Cross !

He happily introduced everyone, unaware that Night already knew them. He simply nodded.

- Did you found him like you found me ?!

Killer asked Nightmare, his dad.

- You could say that.

- Dad found you in the trash.

Dust added, looking at Killer. These two seemed to tease each other just like in Night's AU. Nightmare frowned.

- Dust, don't say that.

- But that is true ! You found him in a bin !

Dust argued.

- That... that is true but it is still not a nice thing to say.

Dust mumbled a "sorry", earning a little pat on the head as to show it wasn't a big mistake and that Nightmare wasn't mad.

- How old is he ?

Night didn't notice Horror and Cross getting closer. Horror was the one who asked the question, Cross hiding behind his leg.

- I'm six.

Night answered.

- Six ? But you're the same height as Cross ! And he's four !

Killer noted. Night simply shrugged, he didn't have an answer to that, at least he didn't have one that didn't involve malnourishment, near death experience or physical abuse, so he decided to not say anything, it wasn't worth it, especially considering he wouldn't stay too long in here, he had a home to get back to after all.

Nightmare put him down, and the moment Night was on his feet Killer grabbed his hand.

- Come, we'll show you our room !

And with that he pulled him to go to their room, a big room where they all slept and played together. Night let out a little yelp when Killer suddenly ran, he wasn't used to run anymore and he felt a pinch in his back, luckily the room wasn't far so he didn't have to run for too long. Horror opened the door, never letting go of Cross, and they all went inside.

The room was heavily decorated with lots of toys and posters, no doubt the children choose their decoration themselves and Nightmare didn't object. Killer let go of his hand to go stand in the middle of the room, his little arms stretched out to show everything.

- This is where we all sleep and play ! Dad doesn't let us bring food here but don't worry ! We found a way to sneak some food in here without him knowing !

- Dad knows, he just doesn't say anything because he thinks it helps us develop our skills.

Horror contradicted him, but Killer wasn't listenning, already looking through their box of toys. Night noticed Cross staring at him, he was the only one who hadn't said anything yet and stayed close to Horror, he couldn't blame him: Horror was a reassuring presence. He waved at him, making the small skeleton flinch but shyly wave back.

Killer finally found what he was looking for and brought back multiple little cars and action figures.

- Here ! All we need to play !

Dust grabbed some pillows, putting them on the floor to lay on them so they would be more comfortable. Night looked at them settle before going next to Dust.

- Can I sit here ?

He asked. He wanted to be with Dust, he knew he was different from his own Dust, but he was still a Dust, he felt safe with him. He felt safe with everyone, but Dust was just.. special to him.. he couldn't explain it, he just felt it.

Dust looked at him for a moment before nodding and looking at the new kid settling down on the pillow.

It was nice, very nice even, to play with kids his age, especially when these kids were alternate versions of his family. For how long had Night wished to have friends ? For how long had he looked at the villagers, wishing that at least one of them would want to play with him ? He knew his gang would arrive soon, but he kinda wished they wouldn't arrive too soon, he wanted to play a little longer, to enjoy something that had always been denied to him. He felt good here.

- What do you mean he's gone ?! You were watching him !

Back in Farmtale, a scream emerged from the house, making the birds flee from a tree nearby.

- I mean he's gone ! He's not in the garden ! I looked at him, put the chicken in the oven, and he wasn't there anymore !

Horror screamed back at Killer, worried but also pissed that he was insinuating that he failed watching over the child. Killer didn't mean it like that, it actually came out meaner than he thought, but it didn't matter now: Nightmare was gone and they didn't know where he was.

- Who the f#ck would kidnap a random child ?!

Dust asked, clearly as mad and worried as everyone. Cross tried to calm him down, to reassure him, maybe Nightmare wasn't far, maybe he was in the vine field or the woods, he always liked taking walks in the woods before. But it wasn't like before. He wasn't as strong as before. If something happened, he couldn't defend himself.

- Don't you ever read the news ? Kids get kidnapped everyday !

- Killer, please, you're not helping...

Cross gently scolded him, they were already worried enough, no need to add such information.

- What if the Stars found him ?

Dust blurted out. They looked at each other, they all thought of that but no one dared to say it out loud, as if not saying it would prevent it from being real.

- We need to search the AUs.

- That would take ages to look through all of them !

Horror claimed. He was right, that would take long, especially when they didn't know which one to begin with.

- Do you perhaps have a better idea ?

Killer asked, losing patience. That's when Cross remembered something.

- I have one; when I went shopping with Nightmare Error opened a portal above us and told us he sometimes looks to make sure everything's fine, maybe we could try to leave a sign so that the next time he looks he knows something is wrong ? And then he can localize Nightmare's code in the multiverse ?

They thought about it for a moment. That could work, Error could find his code faster than they could, and even if Killer didn't particularly like the idea of seeking Error's help, he was their best and only solution at the moment.

- But how are we gonna leave him a sign ? We don't know when he's looking.

Horror asked before a glitchy voice interrupted their thoughts.

- No need for a sign, I heard you talking about me. What do you want ? And make it quick, I have other things to do.

It was late in the AU Night was in, he didn't know if time was passing at the same speed for him as it was for his gang, but here it was almost dinner time. Would it be okay if he ate here ? He was hungry, but he was already supposed to have dinner at home, would Horror be mad if he ate before dinner ? They were still so cautious about what he ate, what would they say if he ate something that his magic couldn't digest yet ? Maybe he shouldn't eat, but he was hungry... he would just ask for a little plate, not too much food should be fine, he would say his tummy hurt a little and he didn't feel like eating a lot. It would be fine, surely it would be fine.

- Boys, dinner is ready !

Nightmare called. The boys rejoiced and quickly abandoned their toys to get up, Killer left the room first, followed by Dust, Horror helped Cross getting up and looked at Night.

- You're coming ?

Night looked at him for a second before nodding and getting up. A pinch. His back hurt. He must have made a face because Horror was still looking at him, frowning.

- Are you okay ?

Night nodded again, he didn't want to worry them, his back would probably be fine, it was just a pinch. Horror didn't insist, Cross tugged on his arm, he wanted to eat but didn't want to speak, eyeing Night. He seemed shy. Night followed Horror in the dinning room to the big table. His back hurt when he walked, he just hoped his wound didn't reopen, because there was no one there to take care of it properly. He watched as they all sat at their respective seats and before he could ask anything he felt the adult grab him to sit him down on a chair.

- You can sit here, I hope you like cannellonnis ?

He asked as Night looked at the plate in the middle of the table, it looked like tube shaped pastas with meat and tomato sauce inside and grilled cheese on top. It looked good, but he still couldn't eat too much.

- Can I have only a little please ? I'm not very hungry and I don't want to waste..

The adult looked at him with some worry before smiling.

- Of course, you eat as much as you want.

Once the food had been served, they all started to eat, Nightmare helping Cross to eat and not make a mess but still watching Night to make sure everything was okay with him.

- What do you mean he's in a Dad AU ? What the f#ck is a Dad AU ?!

Killer asked, not satisfied by the localisation Error gave them. The Destroyer sighed, did he really have to teach them everything ?

- A Dad AU is an AU where Nightmare, usually called Dadmare, takes care of kids, with most of the time the kids being you but it can be anyone.

- Why would he be there ?

Dust asked, not satisfied as well but not yelling like Killer.

- How the hell would I know ? You asked me where he was, not how he got there !

Error responded, quite pissed with all the questions.

- Can you make a portal to this AU ?

Cross asked before they could start a fight that they clearly didn't have the need of right now. Error sighed before raising his arm in the air, focusing for a second to find the right line of code and tearing it open to create a portal.

Night was hiding. His back hurt. It was fine before dinner, hurt a little during, and started to hurt a lot when he went back to play with the others. He got scared, he wanted to go back home now, he liked playing here, he really liked it, he liked having friends, but his back hurt and he didn't want to be touched, he didn't want to be with strangers when it hurts, even if he technically knew everyone here, he wanted his gang, he wanted his family, he wanted Dusty...

- Night ? Where are you ? Come out please, we're not gonna hurt you..

He heard the adult version of himself looking for him. He curled up even more in his hiding spot, trying not to make noise as he felt tears forming in his eyesockets.

- Why are you crying ?

Night flinched at the voice and quickly looked on his left: Horror was sitting next to him, he didn't hear him arrive. He shouldn't be surprised, Horror had always been the best at finding things, of course he would have found him before the others.

- I wanna go back home...

Night sobbed, he was tired. Horror looked at him with sympathy.

- Why didn't you tell dad you had a home ?

He shrugged, he didn't know why, he was just curious to see what would happen.

- Dad brought us here because we didn't have a home anymore.

Horror explained.

- But if you have one then you should go back to it. Do you have parents too ?

Night nodded, he did have parents, he didn't know if they considered themselves as parents or simply as caretakers, but to him they were his parents, his family.

- Then you should go back, they must be worried. Come, we will talk to dad.

Horror got up, stretched out his hand for Night to grab and get up too. He didn't let go of the older child's hand, clinging onto it as he left his hiding spot. He followed Horror until they both stopped. There were screams, people were yelling, and Night knew these voices.

- Where is he ?!

Killer, the adult, yelled. Him and Dust were the first to cross the portal, Horror was in the middle of it and Cross was on his side. Nightmare was in front of them, visibly confused by the sight of the adult versions of his kids, worried for their safety and mad that these people broke into his house to scream some nonsense at him.

- Where is our kid ?!

- I don't have your kid ! How many times do I have to tell you ?! Get out of my castle !

Night tightened his grip on Horror's hand.

- They're my family...

He said quietly to the older child who seemed pretty confused by the strangers and why did they look like them. Horror still nodded, he knew universes existed, since their dad brought them all from different places, but he had never seen other versions of himself. He wasn't supposed to, as they weren't allowed to leave the castle without Nightmare and he never took them with him when he made his portals. They got closer, just enough for the adult version of Dust to spot them.

- Nightmare !

He rushed to his side, but before he could get close enough to grab him a tentacle blocked him, impaling the floor in front of his feet between him and the child who grabbed Horror's arm for more reassurance. They were fighting because of him, he didn't like that.

- You are NOT taking him away.

Nightmare growled, his corruption dripping. When Night still had his corruption it would sometimes drip too, usually when he was really angry or too sick or tired to maintain it in place.

The other kids were on the doorstep, alerted by all the noise and scarred for their dad.

- You were the one to take him when he was in our backyard !

Horror accused him.

- Because he belongs here ! He needs someone to take care of him ! To protect him ! I need t- He needs to be safe !

Nobody responded. Cross looked at Horror to see if they understood the same thing. They did. This Nightmare was still a Nightmare, he had his own bagage of trauma, and he found himself in front of his kid version, of course he would want to protect him, how could they not figure that out before lashing out on him ? He faced terrible things, and he faced them alone, he didn't have anyone to protect him, he must have thought that protecting this tiny version of himself would help him cope with everything he went through... he was not a monster, he was just hurt and nobody ever saw it, nobody ever tried to understand what he felt and to help him...

Horror took a step forward, Nightmare tensed but didn't attack, he knew his boys were there, if a fight started he couldn't protect them alone against four. Could he even fight them ? Could he fight when his opponents had his kids' faces ?

Horror spoke, calmly.

- He is safe. We can assure you that he has everything he needs and is being taken care of by all of us. He is not in any danger.

Killer didn't understand what he was doing, why was he so calm when their baby clearly got kidnapped ? He was about to say something when Cross made a quick hand gesture to tell him not to, to let Horror manage it.

- No one is gonna hurt him, no one is gonna approach him like that again, he isn't in danger anymore. He is safe now. I promise.

Nightmare's gaze locked on him as he was speaking, his corruption dripped less and his tentacle relaxed a bit.

- We just want to take him back home, we don't want to fight, I'm sure you can understand that.

Nightmare felt a tug on his shorts. He looked down: Cross, his baby, was looking at him, his eyesockets filled with tears. He bent down to hold him against his chest, standing back up with his kid in his arms. He couldn't imagine his life without them, without his children, his little gang as he called them, if anyone tried to take them away from him he would tear up the whole multiverse just to take them back. These four adults seemed to have done just the same for their kid. He didn't have the right to take him from them. He retracted his tentacle.

Dust quickly grabbed his baby and pulled him against his chest, returning with the others as he looked at the black skeleton. Night looked at them too.

- Can we come back some times... ?

He hesitantly asked Dust. He liked his new friends, it was fun to play with them, at least when his back wasn't hurting. Dust looked up at the others, Killer didn't seem to like this idea, but it looked like he was the only one as Horror and Cross both seemed okay with that and the group of kids was looking at them expectantly. The little Horror went back to his dad's side.

- The kids liked him...

Nightmare simply said, gently rocking his baby Cross in his arms. Horror smiled softly, this Nightmare wasn't dangerous, he could tell he really took care of the children and they all genuinely liked and trusted him. This castle was a safe place.

- Of course, we're happy he made some friends.

He agreed, shushing Killer before he could protest. The kids looked happy, and a quick look at their own baby comfired he was pleased too.

- We have to go now, we can't be gone for too long.

- Of course, I'm sorry.. for what I did..

- You better be.

Killer spat before crossing the portal again, rapidly followed by Dust, he needed to check Night's wounds.

Horror nodded at Nightmare, and he too returned home with the others, Error closing the portal behind them. Their baby was safe, it was all that mattered at the moment, that he was back in their home...

It mattered so much that no one noticed that the chicken burnt in the oven. Good thing Nightmare already ate.

- the end -

●●●●●●●●●●●

I'M DOOOOOONE

So many characters it was hard to keep track sometimes :')

The baby got kidnapped, but he made some friends ! So it wasn't that bad

Dw about Killer he was just very worried for his tiny baby, Horror did explain everything to him afterwards and, yes, he did feel a little bad, but not too much, because this other Nightmare still stole his baby, and that is unforgivable

@ancientschampionau here's your surprise ! If you're wondering why I asked you about Cross's and Horror's age/responsibility it was because I couldn't decide which one should be 8 and which one should be 4, but I didn't want to spoil so I asked the question like that ;3

Also i HAD to put some angst I love writing angst SO MUCH so here you go, a little bit of angst sprinkled on the fic

Was Nightmare projecting his trauma onto baby Noot ? Yes, yes he was

Hope you'll like it !

Ccino cleans the counter as he glances at the clock. It is already an hour after when he would normally show up. Ccino is going to have to accept that Nightmare isn't going to show up again.

That is the fourth week he missed now. Ccino is starting to get really worried. But it isn't like he can file a missing person report for Nightmare.

First it would be one that had to cover the whole multiverse. But well, Nightmare isn't exactly liked in the multiverse.

Which, Ccino suposes there are some reasons for. But Ccino always figured it wasn't his place to consider the actions of gods. Reaper kills people after all and no one thinks twice about it as god a dead. So why are people mad at Ngihtmare for causing negativity when he is the god of negativity?

Ccino just doesn't understand and that is why he tries to not judge and stay out of it.

He sighs as he starts to clean up the coffee machines and clean up the food. Trying to remember if he heard any gossip about large fights or battles but nothing that he can think of right away-

The door rings and Ccino looks up already halfway through his sentence "I am sorry. We are close-" Then his sight settles on the customer.

Okay! nevermind! He is very open! He shoots the small child a gentle smile "Are you lost? It is okay if you want to wait here for your parent or parents." He hasn't seen a babybones since Papyrus was still a small. He can't believe how small the little guy is.

The tiny skeleton looks dirty however. There are dirt and mud marks all over their clothes. They aren't wearing shoes and they have a very tight hold on their backpack.

A moment of silence before they speak "Hey... Ccino..." They glance to the side "I... I wasn't sure... where else to go..."

Ccino's mind pauses before something about the way the other stands reminds him oh-

Ccino feels everything in his body tense "Oh stars..." that is... Is that why...

The door!!

Ccino rushes away from the counter and towards the door. Nightmare tenses and seems to wait but Ccino rushes passed him as he closes the door and locks it. Putting the latch on for good meassure. He looks around the store and quickly closes all the curtains.

Ccino glances around before he sighs "Okay.. Okay... that should be good." He turns back to Ngihtmare. Who is still just standing there, waiting and staring silently.

Ccino can't help but stare. Nightmare remains standing right where he stopped before. He is just... How is he?

Ccino slowly goes closer as he mutters "what... What happened?"

Nightmare looks away as his grip just grows tighter around the backpack "I don't... know... I thought... I thought I managed to do it. Do what I had to and now..." He frowns as he stares at his hands, his face sad "I don't understand..."

Ccino frowns before kneeling down by him "It is okay. We can figure this out. Lets first get you out of those dirty clothes and cleaned up. Do you have a spare set with you?" Nightmare doesn't look up as he just shakes his skull.

Ccino nods "That is okay. You can borrow some of mine." He smiles as he leads him towards the door to the back.

Nightmare glances at him before glancing towards the side of the room "But... your cats?"

Ccino frowns as he looks t them before smiling at Ngihtmare "They will be fine for a little. You look like you are freezing." which Ccino knows is silly. Nightmare doens't get cold. He feels the cold of course but he doesn't truly get cooled.

Ngihtmare shrugs as he mutters "Yeah... that is still new."

alarms go off in Ccino's mind. That can't be good. He quickly leads Nightmare to the back and up the stairs to his own small apartment. he helps him to the bathroom where he grabs soaps and a warm towel.

Ngihtmare goes to undress before hissing in pain as he moves his arm wrong. ccino joins his friends side and starts to help him. It happened before that after a very bad battle that nightmare would show up by his store. asking him if he could wash up and heal for a moment.

Ccino always thought it was stupid that nightmare didn't want to appear weak in front of his team. but was touched that nightmare trusted him enough to show the weakness to. it proved that they truly are friends.

Ccino notices that Nightmare leaves the shirt under his hoody on, a much too large shirt and Ngihtmare is swimming in it, and he can't help but frown "It will be easier to clean up if you take that off... also keeping it on will not help the whole cold thing." He gets the shower head down and checks the temperature. He doesn't go for hot right away. When monsters get cold their bodies need time to slwoly warm up or risk going into shock. Ccino isn't sure if Nightmare can go into shock but quite honestly Ccino doesn't want to find out.

Nightmare pauses and frowns "I know just... Don't freak out?" He crosses his arms before freezing slightly.

Ccino grins and sits by the floor with the shower head running water "I mean. One of my best friends just showed up to my doorstep as a four year old. I think I can handle it."

Nightmare smiles a bit before sputtering "F-four?! I am not four! I am six!!" his face puffs up slightly before he frowns to himself. seemingly surprised and shocked befores peaking again "I mean! I am over 500 years old!! The body is just six!"

Yeah. Ccino has his doubts. Because he notices certain things and how Nightmare behaves now. It is slightly diferent. It is undeniably Nightmare. But it isn't how he was before. The old Nightmare would never allow himself to sputter or pout. He would not smile as easily or look away as quickly. Ngihtmare was confident, or at least knew how to fake his confidence.

This Ngihtmare is unsure. uncertain. It may be because something is affecting him. But what could be powerful enough to change and affect a god? That isn't just any magic. Only ancient and other very powerful gods should be able to do that.

Ccino doens't point out the things he saw. He doens't need Nightmare to be even more unsure about what is going on. He needs to help his friend focus so they can start to figure this out. "Six? You sound very sure on that. I would think four still wiht how small you are... maybe even three?" he grins as he winks. Making it obvious it is a joke and that he is just teasing.

Ngihtmare huffs and sputters as a tiny tiny purple blush appears... wait purple? since when is Nightmare's magic purple? It fits the eye colour but it is strange.

Nightmare mutters unhappily "It is... My body is how it was before... and before is when i was six..." he frowns as he no doubt noticed his own speak pattern.

Ccino frowns as he keeps the water running, it is fine he doesn't use a lot of water anyway, "What do you mean before? Before what?"

Nightmare frowns as he looks to his feet. then he mutters "I... I think... I am not sure... Who is was before? That body? I don't think it was mine... it was a power that i... took... And i shouldn't have had." He keeps looking down. Everything about him saying 'guilty child.' and 'regret'.

Ccino frowns. He has no doubt there is more to that story. But Nightmare is troubled. He is dealing with his body just shrinking and returning to a child state, is a child like or truly a child? Neither of them knows.

Right now. Nightmare needs a friend.

Ccino nods as he hums "Well, in that case it is best to get you washed and get you to sleep. You look exhausted Nightmare." He waits and nods to the shower "The water is warm..." he grins.

Ngihtmare frowns as he slowly pulls on the shirt "It... it happened... ages and ages ago... I think it will look worse than it is? Probably... Just don't freak out?"

ccino nods and promises easily. He will be calm and relax and not at all OH SHIT!!

That... that are open wounds and horrifing breaks on the very spine of nightmar.e How the fuck had he been standing and moving adn walking around without sobbing and screaming in pain?! Ccino can see his mana lines in that spine! It is a weak looking purple, much like his eye lights- shit Nightmare is very hurt and very low on magic.

Okay. Calm down. Deep breaths. Remember. Panic is the enemy in these type of situations.

Nightmare just stands wiht his back to him. Slowly folding the shirt and Ccino is thankful to it because by the time Nightmare glances at him, guarded and his shoulders high as if he is bracing himself, Ccino has his face calm.

He knows he looks worried. Of course he is worried. But he is calm. He won't make it a big deal if Ngihtmare doens't want to. He speaks softly "Want me to help clean your wounds? Same as we did before?"

Ccino is happy to note that it works as he had hoped. Nightmare relaxes at the reminder that they have done this before. Ccino had helped him treat his wounds before when they are at places Nightmare can't reach or check himself easily. They are friends. They are still friends. Nothing has to change.

Ngihtmare nods as he speaks "I think that is for the best..." He slowly moves into the shower and Ccino can't help but see the angry sparks of magic come off the cracks. The way the broken and split bones grind against one another as he moves.

Ccino is going to have to figure something out to convince Ngihtmare to let him help him move around because that can't be good. That has to hurt so much.

Ccino says as much "It looks very painful... I think it is best you sit down while i try to wash it a bit."

NIghtmare freezes at the first comment but eventually answers "I... I guess..." He sits down as he lets the water just fall over him. Shivering each time water goes passed the wounds. clearly hurt but he doens't even make a sound.

Ccino frowns as he starts to clean the wound. there is dirt and little sticks in those wounds. He gets some tweezers and starts to carefully and slowly remove what he can. But in the end he needs to use the water to dislodge some very stubborn pieces.

Nightmare shivers and shakes as they work but remains completely quiet.

Ccino speaks softly "I am sorry this hurts this much. It is okay... to cry."

Nightmare shakes his skull as he speaks slowly and painfully "Can't... weakness... bad... exploided..."

Ccino speaks softly "I won't... Never. We are friends Nightmare. You are one of my closest friends that I have. You helped me so much. PLease, let me help you."

Ngihtmare still isn't looking at him "It... it is... too much." his voice is so quiet.

Ccino gently holds his friend's hand "Nightmare. You helped me wiht my depression. There is no way anything you have going on is going to be too much for me. Maybe i will be confused and out of my depth. But i will not give up on trying to help you."

Nightmare is quiet for a long time before a small sobs "It hurts... so bad...."

Ccino jsut hugs him. Not caring that he will get wet and soaked. that the bathroom will be a mess. His friends needs him. Has aparently needed comfort for a very long time. and Ccino will not disappoint him.

-------

The shower took a long time and in the end Nightmare just looked exhausted. Ccino managed to convince him to at least help him a little as Ccino took him to his own bed. Nightmare tried to reassure him that Nightmare would be fine on the couch. Ccino had grinned adn said it would be fine. It would be like a sleepover. tehy could watch movies and eat snacks and then go to bed and sleep.

Ccino first made sure that Ngihtmare had some food and was comfortable before rushing downstairs to make sure his cats were okay and were ready for the night and to finish the last few tasks to clean up.

He made sure to leave a notice on the door that the cafe would be closed the next day. He will need to help nightmare figure out what to do next.

After it he got redressed in his own PJs and put all the clothes of them both in the washer. Making sure to use a fabric softener to make those more comfortable.

He returns to his room to see Nightmare enjoying the warm meal as one of his own cats, Noodle, has joined the small skeleton. Noodle is living up to his name as he just lays limb and stretched out by Nightmare's side.

Ccino smiles as he joins him. Having grabbed his old laptop to load up some movies he has on it "Is it okay? Sorry I only had some leftovers."

Nightmare hums as he eats another bite "It is really good. Thank you." He takes another bite of the curry and Ccino smiles. His is washed and his wounds are clean. He is eating. and they will now relax and make light conversation on what to do.

Ccino joins Nightmare agianst the headrest and puts on a movie. One about some people throwing a ring into an volcano. it is enjoyable and most important, long. Ccino puts the movie on and the two of them watch it in silence. Nightmare eats and wathes the movie with great interest while Ccino just lets him relax for a while.

Once Nightmare finishes his meal Ccino makes sure to put the plate to the side. He will clean that up in a bit.

Tey sit in silence for a while longer but Nightmare breaks it "Thank you... You... thank you..."

Ccino smiles as he leans back agianst the headrest "No worries. as i said. We are friends. Friends help each other." More thoughtful "Do you want to stay for longer? I don't have a lot of space like you had at your place." a small assumption but to be fair Nightmare did mention he made his own castle in his own hidden universe. "If you don't mind the smaller space i am happy to have you around."

Ngihtmare blinks up at him confused. sockets so big and wide and Ccino can't help but wonder who could ever hurt the other when he just looks like that. Nightmare looks abcka t the blanket "I... if... It is okay... I am sorry for just... showing up I just... didn't know where else to go..." he looks so sad.

Ccino frowns. He wants to know so badly why Nightmare isn't with his team. But if he looks this sad and confused... Maybe it didn't go well? Maybe they didn't react well to Nightmare's change in form? That could explain why nightmare was so nervous about showing himself and meeting Ccino.

Ccino smiles "Happy to have you." but more practical "We will need to figure out something to tell everyone else. I need to take you to the healers."

Ngihtmare freezes and stares at him, that is fear in those sockets "Why?" it is muttered so softly.

Ccino smiles sadly "Because your spine is very hurt Nightmare. If your spine breaks you may never be able to move your lower body or even feel it. We need to make sure it will heal okay."

Nightmare frowns a she looks away and mutters "But... Healer don't really... help..."

And isn't that just something that sketches even more of Nightmare's past? Something that had been terrifying and full or hurt everywhere. Somewhere where nightmare couldn't trust others. where he knows showing wekaness would just cause him more pain. A place where nightmare got those terrible wounds. Where nightmare has this mindset that he can't even trust those who made an oath to help to help him recover.

Ccino doesn't want to know about the place that hurt Nightmare so. That place doesn't deserve the other.

Ccino speaks softly "I get it. I know I am always scared when i go to the dentist. But I know a few healers who are really nice and honestly want to help no matter who that person is."

Ngithmare doesn't look back up "That is because they deserve it... i don't... I am not good."

and isn't that just fucking heart breaking to hear someone say? this is the most confident Ccino has heard Nightmare speak since he showed up on his doorstep and it is to say these things.

Ccino hugs his friend "You are good Nightmare."

"Everyone in the multiverse will disagree."

Ccino stubbornly just holds unto the other "Then they are all wrong." Nightmare spend so much time and effort into helping Ccino first deal with his depression and than find the help he needed. Nightmare was gentle with the cats and always made sure to pay for what he bought. He may have caused negativity but he is a god of it. Maybe he needs it to live. as far as Ccino knows Nightmare never went out to kill others or cause ruin beyond repair.

Nightmare leans into his hug "... thank you..."

Ccino smiles as he continues to hold the other.

---------

Toriel smiles as she nods "You are a very smart young man Midnight." she smiles as Nightmare looks down embarresed.

Ccino smiles from behind the counter as he serves someone a drink.

It had been an adjustment but it was very worth it.

In the end Ccino mad eup a story that some of his friends dropped Nightmare, going by Midnight as there are too many multiverse travlers in his universe, at his shop to watch him while they went on holiday. Ccino faked a letter and used an old phone of his to make it seem like there was a text conversation before turning the phone of the 'friend' off and locking it away.

Now Ccino is Midnights caretaker while the police searches for the neglectful parents.

some people were called to make sure Nightmare was okay and Ccino saw his chance as he spoke about how 'Midnight' had showed up at his store alone with jsut the letter. Dirty clothes and some marrow on it.

One examination wiht healers later, Ccino stayed right by Nightmare's side, it became obvious that 'Midnight''s parents were abusive and that he would not be safe wiht them anymore. Ccino offered to keep fostering and helping the babybones and after a long conversation for both Ccino and Nightmare they managed to do it.

It helped tha tNightmare jsut said he didn't feel safe with others. That he wanted to be with Ccino and that he was happy to be with Ccino and didn't want to go back to his old home.

Ccino is very happy with his perfectly clean track record and his work with fostering cats nad helping abused animals recover as it gave him the perfect file to be allowed to take care and watch over the hurt Midnight.

But Midnight needed schooling. Luckily everyone, the people helping them with all the paperwork and information and process, agreed that it would be smart for Midnight to first remain inside to recover more and to heal and process his trauma more. Ccino had easily agreed.

So now every day around eleven Toriel would come by to homeschool Midnight, which turns out Nightmare's mind reverted to child forma dn he forgot many things. Ngihtamre had been very distressed to realise he had gotten dumber. Ccino reassured him he was still smart but Nightmare didn't seem to believe it. Luckily Toriel had more luck with making Nightmare see this truth.

And once a week a healer would visit them to check Nightmare's wounds and how those were healing.

All things considered? Things were going well.

The time that the stars walked in had been very tense. Luckily Nghtmare had alreayd been behind the counter and had been hunched over his homework.

Ccino had easily distracted the three wiht options to order while Nightmare quickly dove into one of the cabinets under the counter. When asked about the babybones Ccino said he was just babysitting a friend of his. The others let it go quickly after that.

At least it made Ccino very happy Nightmare nad him had decided on a nickname for Nightmare to go by. Midnight is still pushing their luck but it is worth it as Nightmare can still go by Night this way which seems to bring him comfort.

All in all. Ccino is proud in how far they had come in the last month. He does still worry about how everyone will react if this gets out but with each day that passes. each new face that meets Midnight. They less likely it is people will look at Nightmare and see the old Nightmare. Isntead they will just soo Midnight, or jsut Night, for who he is.

A bright kid that has had a very rough start of life and just wants to be.

Ccino thinks he managed alright.

Though... He does wonder... Because people have been living him and Nightmare tiny packages. His community and friends are amazing and Ccino always has small care packages delivered to his door.

He does wonder about the ones without any names on them. Without a message or letter or anything. Ccino obviously makes sure the package is checked for anything dangerous but it is always completely safe.

Maybe some people truly just wnat to help him but not be known for it?

He narrows his eyes as that Cross guy won't stop leaning against Sans's back and looking over his shoulder. Sans doens't push him off but that is just what his brother is like. Sans rarely picks stuff for himself. Papyrus can know! He grew up wiht him! And his brother always put him first!

He... He doens't know why but it was also... He is sure it was also like that before. It had to be.

He glares as that stupid skeleton in white snorts and nuzzles closer to his brother "Dust you are wicked smart. How did you even plan this whole lesson plan?"

Papyrus also doesn't like them using that name for his brother. His name is Sans! They picked it out together with mister Asgore and it will always remain his name!

his brother shrugs "Used what that institued recommended. Easy from there." Sans calmly makes some more small pencil marks in one of the books as the tiny babybones looks curiously between Sasn and Cross.

Papyrus feels very double about the babybones. He knows it is Nightmare. But Nightmare is still the same person who nabbed his brother when he was vulnerable. When his brother was still trying to come to terms with everything that happened and the choices he had felt forced to make. His own mind against him.

But now that same monster who used his brother's vulnerability and doubt to get someone to work for him... is now a child. A tiny and young babybones.

Papyrus wants so badly to hold the tiny guy. Teach him what he knows about cooking and being a great and amazing uncle for him!

But well... being dead makes that sort of hard.

A yelp and Papyrus turns only to let out an outraged gasp. Cross had pulled Sans back with him into that nest and Papyrus sputters "No! Stop that! That is indecent! Ten feet distance!! Sans!"

Sadly Sans can't hear him. Sans was never able to hear him. Papyrus sighs as he crosses his arms "Honestly. The indecency of these guys. Sans you could do so much better! Those three are horrible influences on your child!" he glances to the side and notices two large lavender eyes looking in his direction.

Then the moment passes and a loud laugh joins them "Oh hell yeah! cuddle time!" another skeleton walks over. He snatches the poor babybones and joins Cross's side.

Papyrus knows he shouldn't be mean or rude but he doesn't trust Killer. Least of all with his fragile brother. Killer is just... intense. He doesn't notices boundaries well and his broter isn't the most obvious about his own. Papyrus has noticed that Killer is very good in angering his normally calm brother and Killer seems to be able to push his brother's every single button.

At least he gives Sans his babybones and his brother focus turns to the small skeleton immediantly.

Papyrus grins as he floats close "Yes! Ignore those two heathens!" His brother is happy being able to take care of the now small god and Papyrus is happy to support his brother. Even if it is just in spirit. Nyeh heh heh! that was a great joke! He will have to tell Sans when he can-

Oh right.

Papyrus is still not used to not being able to just tell Sans all his jokes. He misses it so much.

The last of them joins as well. A giant of a skeleton. Papyrus used to be worried about having someone so big and strong near his brother. Papyrus used to protect his brother after all with his brother only having 1HP. But Horror was okay.

He was considered and careful and Papyrus really liked him! He had seemed trustworthy!

That was! Of course! Until he turned out to want to date his brother! Indecent! All of them!

Papyrus keeps a watchful eye as they get comfortable to sleep. Sans rolls up around his babybones as the others lay nearby as well. Cross lays much too close in Papyrus's opinion. He does not need to spoon his brother like that!

But Papyrus will just stew in silence as he watches. Maybe one day he will be able to get through to his brother and get him to see he can do much better than these heathens!

His brother falls asleep quickly much like the other skeletons. Soon the only sound left in the room is the soft crackle of the fire in the fireplace and the loud snoring from Horror and Killer both. Hoenstly how neither of those woke his brother or that Cross guy up is a miracle.

Papyrus huffs as he leans back in the air "Honestly Sans. You could do so much better."

"His name isn't Sans anymore."

Papyrus turns quickly and sees two large lavender eye lights stare at him.

Papyrus blinks.

Nightmare blinks back.

Papyrus suddenyl feels nervous "You... can hear me?"

Nightmare nods before glaring at him "You are rude about my dads."

Papyrus glances to the side before crossing his arms "Well! They touch my brother unnecessarily often." there!

Nightmare tilts his tiny skull "Why do you care? You are mean to him anyway."

Papyrus sputters and waves his arms and hands out "That isn't me!!"

His brother... something is haunting his brother. Something that is faking being the great Papyrus. Making his brother doubt him! Making him feel insecure and unloved! That that must have been the reason that his brother would let these menaces near him! That must be it!

Nightmare tilts his skull and blinks those large lavender eyes again "I mean... I know it isn't you. But these type of thoughts and beleives don't come from nowhere."

Papyrus crosses his arms and frowns "I know that... It is probbaly his guilt..." But Papyrus still doesn't understand why his brother would

Nightmare just continues to stare at him "I always could hear what the other you said you know. Before it was easier than now but now it is easier to make it go away."

Papyrus frowns as he looks curious "How... how do you do that?"

Nightmare looks thoughtful before shrugging "Just a feeling. I don't want him to be hurt by that thing... I restored his mind to before he made it." he looks down bothered as he clenches a hand "It isn't perfect... But it is a start. It gives him room to heal."

Papyrus nods as he rubs his hands "Do you... think you could... help him see and hear me?" He has so many things to tell his brother. So many things he want to reassure him. Tell him he isn't mad. That he understands why he did it. That Papyrus knows Sans can do better.

"I don't think that is a good idea."

Papyrus looks shocked as Nightmare just stares at him.

Papyrus's mouth feels dry "Why not?"

Nightmare hums "Those feelings came from soemwhere. I don't want dad to feel them again." There is a protectiveness and a determination in that young voice.

Papyrus glares "I would never make my brother feel like that."

Ngihtmare tilts his skull "But you did. At least in the past. Maybe you don't even remember doing it. But you must have done something that made him beleive you would not pick him." and he stares at him. Knowing.

The plate on his hand inches. Memories just out of reach snag the back of his mind. Had he... had he picked others over his brother? he wouldn't have right? his brother is the most important person to him! Ever! So why would he?!

Nightmare cotninues to stare at him "You were the one after all who said you wanted soemone's opinion that mattered."

A long time ago. When he and Sans had just moved to Snowdin. When he had wanted to impress Undyne. Papyrus remembers now. He had made that thoughtless comment. He had wanted to apologise but Sans told him to forget about it...

Papyrus shakes his skull "That... that was just once...."

Nightmare continues to stare at him "Was it just once? Or just once that you remember?"

The plate on his hand itches again. Regret that he doens't know the source of. Broken memories of wanting to... help someone? Had... had he wanted to help someone? At the cost of Sans? No... he wouldn't right?

Papyrus shakes his skull "You are wrong!" he snaps and glares.

The staring breaks and a look of fear as Ngihtmare tries to back up and away. Papyrus immediantly regrets it as he reaches for the young babybones.

Cross is arleady awake "Nighty? Hey hey little Nightlight it is oaky." the skeleton takes Ngihtmare into his arms and holds the shaking skeleton "What is wrong? did you have a nightmare? did you have a bad memory?" he continues to hold Nightmare.

Ngihtamre continues to stare at him with fear and Papyrus isn't sure what to do. He hadn't... he hadn't meant...

Cross stares right at him but can clearly not see him as he looks back at Ngihtmare "Hey sweetsoul. What is wrong? You can tell me."

Nightmare looks embarrassed as he mutters "Trying to get Dad's ghost to leave him alone..."

Cross blinks beofre holding him close "Oh Nightmare. It is okay. It isn't your responisibility to take care of us. We take care of you..." soft nuzzles and cuddles.

Nightmare looks unsure before nodding and hiding his face into Cross's shirt.

Papyrus doesn't know what to do or say as he remains right where he was before. Just an observer to a world he doesn't belong to anymore. He isn't even sure why he is still here...

He thoguht he could help his brother but he can't do that...

He just wants his brother to know he loves him. That he isn't mad at him.

Papyrus speaks softly "I am sorry." Nightmare flinches as soon as he speaks and he rubs his hands "I am really sorry... Please... can you... tell him? That I love him? That I am not mad at him? That i never was?"

Even if Papyrus didn't agree with the choices that Sans made. Even if Sans did something that Papyrus would never do. Papyrus can't be mad at him. Not when he knows that he tried his best. When Papyrus knows that Sans truly believed that to have been the only way to stop the human.