Master Rework 2

Realms

I came back around with a sharp pain in my head. It felt like I had been hit by a train. The pain sharpened as I sat up. A large hand firmly pressed my chest back into the soft, wet, sweet-smelling grass. Grass? Where am I? The fuck? I couldn't see well, my vision was blurred or obstructed from pain, I'd imagine. Chase. The memory of him straddling a corpse covered in what appeared to be blood, pointed teeth and face covered in blood, and those haunting... piercing green eyes... my head throbbed even more at the memory. I knew what I saw. I opened my eyes and was met by a lavender sky. This place again. The place I first met Chase. I looked around without picking my head up, craning my neck alone.

There were trees, long and short grasses, flowers, rocks, stumps; things I hadn't seen in this place before. I finally looked at the hand holding me firmly to the ground. Dark, caramel colored skin attached to a hand that was entirely black as it led up to the golden skin. Mud? No. Blood? I didn't think so. A tattoo, maybe? I followed the hand to the arm and finally to the face. My head was pounding. I didn't think I'd ever meet anyone as beautiful as Chase, but this man was a close second. Jet black, long hair streaked his face and trailed down his back in a sloppy braid. Just like mine, actually. He had strong features; a sharp jaw, deep recessed cheekbones and eye sockets, a chiseled nose rolling muscles; like an example out of one of my figure drawing books. He was positively stunning. It felt like I was staring at a feral animal more than a man, though. The way he was hunched over, holding his palm across my chest with no effort but full effect... My skin prickled. He looked down at me with eyes the color of the lavender sky. Such sharp, yet soft eyes. Is he wearing makeup, or are those just his lashes? I took a ragged breath in and even breathing made my head hurt. I attempted to sit up again. He removed his hand from my chest and gestured out across the field, inviting me to look. He held a blackened finger up to his lips, signaling to be quiet. I propped myself up on my elbows, wincing at the pain rattling my skull.

Chase was battling something and winning. It was small in body, but with spindly legs taller than Chase. Like the daddy long leg spider, but terrifyingly larger. Blacker than a summer night sky, the creature swiped massive claws at Chase, easily evaded. It eventually fell to the ground, letting out a guttural growl. Smoke rose from the still shaking carcass like a fire. I again felt a hand on my chest, pushing me down. I didn't fight.

"He won't be happy if he sees you up and about just yet. He blames himself for your injuries, for his lack of timing", this mystery man said, with a voice as deep as the creature's growl. His hands, however, were soft. Nothing like Chase's. His eyes were emotionless, but I dared not try his patience. I plopped back down and closed my eyes. The pain subsided momentarily from being fully horizontal. I heard footsteps approaching, squelching the wet grass.

"Is she awake yet? Is she okay?" Chase asked breathless and ragged, his hands on his knees as he bent over to catch some air.

"She's come to, but she's in incredible pain. She has quite the knob on her head, thanks to you", he said with disdain. Chase dropped to his knees next to me in the grass. I felt a hand cup the side of my face, followed by a sigh. Small pressure was applied to my temple, and truly, I felt the knob. My eyes fluttered open. Chase was covered in black splatters. The black liquid smelled like dead leaves, like autumn. So, it was technically blood, I suppose. Chase had a normal human face again. There wasn't a trace of the mildly demonic features I saw earlier. I started to sit up again, Chase placing an arm around my shoulders supporting me, allowing me.

"What happened... I remember being on the street, my face was going a hundred miles an hour towards the ground… and then I woke up here, with him and the worst headache I've ever had", I said, clenching a closed fist against my forehead.

"Gray", the strange man said. Huh?

"That's my human side name. Gray", he explained, unbraiding his hair and letting it fall around his naked torso. His hair is longer than mine. What connection do he and Chase have? Am I in danger here, anywhere? What is going on? I had so many questions.

"I guess there's no point in keeping a secret any longer...", Chase trailed off, defeated. He looked at Gray. Gray crossed his arms and looked away as if admitting defeat as well. I looked between both of them. Once I had balance, Chase let me go.

"Jasmine, you know I'm not entirely human, right?", Chase asked. His eyes pleaded with me more than his words, begging me to give him a chance to explain. I was shocked he used my name. He barely had before, why start now? I still soaked it up like a sponge.

"Of course, I know that. There are more than a few things you can't explain", I said. I dropped my hand into my lap. My head hurt less and less the more we talked.

"Okay, so how do I explain this in the plainest terms…", he said. He took a moment to collect himself. I sat, staring at him expectantly. He spoke after a couple seconds.

"I cross the threshold of dreams and reality. Gray does too. There are probably thousands of us, but Gray and I ended up in the same dreamscape. It's like alternate dimensions of the same universe, each of us getting our own. Somehow, these last couple days, we've both been stuck here, in yours. It's so different than I know dreamscapes to be like. We have to share. More importantly... There are demons, nightmare bringers here as well, like that one, which, again, is not normal for a human to have in their dreamscape, especially awake", he pointed at the plume of black billowing smoke across the field, thousands of feet away. I didn't say anything, I didn't have to. He continued.

"The nightmares prey on innocent human subconscious and make a home there, and it's typically a visit. Like a parasite, feeding off your subconscious energy. The second you wake up, they leave. The one we encountered just now, has been entering and exiting at will, for a while, even while you're awake somehow. How long have you been having nightmares for? Gray and I are like gatekeepers of the human subconscious. We're called dream walkers", he said, taking my hand in his. He gently patted it.

"So, wait, this... is a physical realm? I didn't just dream it up, then? This is... a permanent place, in my head, at all times?", I asked.

"Yes, it's a real realm. A physical realm, as you described it. The danger here threatens your life just like in your world. We can transport your physical body here, but not necessarily your... worldly possessions, unfortunately, for some odd reason", Gray interrupted, staring down at my chest suspiciously. I looked down and I was naked, but with Chase's hoodie laid on top of me as a blanket. My cheeks went red yet again, for the umpteenth time today. I clenched it tighter to my chest.

"I took you here in an attempt to protect you, but I wasn't expecting you to faint, sorry about that lump…", Chase said. I noticed my things in a pile feet away from Gray. So, they just don't come with me on my person.

"Thank you", I blurted out. They both looked at me in surprise.

"I told you, the first time I met you, didn't I? The more truthful you are, the more I'll trust you. It doesn't matter if I think you're nuts or maybe that I'm nuts", I explained. 

"I can't express my gratitude for you saving me Chase. And you Gray, for keeping me safe after we came here", I went on. They were both eager to hear what I had to say.

"This is definitely… a lot to take in, so please forgive me if I have seemingly stupid or ignorant questions. But I do want to learn more. About both of you. About this world. About me, too. There's more of a reason than sympathy for Chase choosing me. I can feel it. So, I want to learn", I finished. The boys exchanged looks and nodded.

"She can be trusted, for now. I'll gladly help protect her subconscious by your side, brother, until we can figure out what's going on", Gray said definitively. He stretched an arm out, and Chase grabbed his forearm. They held each other's arms for a matter of seconds. Then Chase looked at me, as if seeing me for the first time.

"You're right. There's something off about you. I don't think you're nuts, though. The nightmares, as well as Gray and me, seem to be able to enter and exit your subconscious without having to put you to sleep or you previously being asleep already. I choose to because… It seems more respectful than seeing the world how you see. I feel like it's a consent thing. I'd be able to read your thoughts and feelings…" I knew where he was going with that. Noted. Point taken. "But I gotta say… It's a magnetic power, it's like a drug. I can't get enough of your mind. I wander it for hours and never seem to have my fill. I want to know how and why, and so does he", Chase said, grabbing my hand with his free one. Gray nodded.

"It's perplexing indeed. No one has heard of it from this realm. Maybe someone in your realm has an explanation, or at least a direction to point us in to find answers", Gray said, his eyes softening by the second. His smile took my absolute breath away. It was crooked, but bared the same pointy teeth as Chase had our first meeting. It didn't shock me as much as Chase's did. So, they are the same 'species' then. They look so different though. Interesting. I wanted more answers before I asked any more questions.

"So, that thing, it didn't steal my phone obviously. We're still on the lookout for the guy, right?", I asked, slightly unsure.

"I'm sure humans can sense your energy too, not just us and nightmares. I don't think that thing wanted anything other than that truly delectable energy you put off. It truly is like gravity, I'm drawn to you even right now…", Gray said, closing his eyes partially and inhaling deeply. He exhaled and the same magical, glittery smoke exited his mouth. His was a deep, royal purple.

"So, you can enter and exit my subconscious, put me to sleep, wake me up.... How do you do that? How does that work?" I asked, playing with the string of the hoodie. I looked between both of them. They looked at each other cheekily and both got within inches of my face. I started to lean back in shock; but before I could escape, both of them exhaled directly into my face. The last thing I saw was swirls of green and purple glitter before my eyes closed and my mind went black.

Directive

I sat up sharply, taking in a sharp breath. The last thing I remember was Chase and Gray sending me to sleep. I looked around my room rubbing my eyes, neither of them was present. It was just barely light out; I had slept until morning at least. My first full night in the longest time. I wondered where they were. Maybe they were in the living room. Them putting me to sleep was going to get old if it happened frequently enough. Consent, my ass. What a party trick, though. My mind flashed; I remembered our conversation before I went out like a light. Beings of their world, as well as humans from mine, could pick up on my strange energy it seemed. I lifted my hand to my chin and scratched lightly. 'Like gravity', they agreed on calling this strange ability of mine. I wondered if that's why people naturally seemed to flock to me. I was too socially awkward to make anything of it, which haunted me through childhood to this day. What a shame, I thought.

I stretched my arms. I felt cold air brush against the skin on my chest and stomach. Still naked. I stood up and stretched my back and legs. I hadn't had a sleep that restful in almost a year. I threw on some leggings and a hoodie. I didn't want to get dressed up. I walked to the bathroom and grabbed my hairbrush. I studied my face in the mirror. Same boring, black hair. Same boring, light brown eyes. Same boring everything. I didn't understand how me, looking so plain, could attract either of those boys physically the way they claimed. Maybe they see something I don't, yet. The bags under my eyes were barely visible for once. I yawned, the air immediately feeling more awake. Is this what normal people feel like? I patted my cheeks. They seemed more... bouncy and full of life. Sleep really works miracles, I guess. I walked out into the living room. Still clean, still smelled nice. No food leftover from last night, however. I checked the balcony. Locked. The boys weren't there either. The front door was even locked. They're more responsible than they seem, I suppose.

I made my way into the kitchen. Nobody here, either. I grew suspicious. I opened the fridge; it was full enough to feed a small village. I wondered if Gray would be staying here too. We'd have to get a futon, I doubted the couch would even support him, none the less sleep him. The thought of Chase sleeping with me didn't really bother me that much anymore. An arm's reach away was safe for me until we figured out what to do. I closed the fridge, sighing. Fresh fruit littered the counter. I picked a bright green apple for breakfast. It was the same color as Chase's eyes. I chuckled. Of course, he would pick that. So vain. I grabbed my keys off the coffee table and stuffed them in my pocket. I wondered how they'd gotten the door locked without these. I felt so naked without my phone. I shook my head and grabbed for my shoes. pausing, I decided on a pair of flip flops. My feet ached. They haven't been free in months. I locked the door on my way out. I was going to be a huge stickler about that from here on out.

I got partway down the stairs when I heard banging, like a hammer on metal. I scratched my neck. That would be my boys, making all this noise so early in the morning. As I rounded the last set of stairs to the landing, I was met with the sight of a still shirtless Gray. No weird black hands, just his regular copper skin. I guess that's his 'resting state' or 'dream state'. The muscles on his back bulged. as he lifted something out of my line of sight. He put Chase to shame in the beef department. I cleared my throat. He looked over his shoulder, smiling a full set of flat teeth. Chase must have told him shark teeth make humans uncomfortable. He stood up, letting the self-closing door go. There was a loud thump, quickly followed by cursing from outside. Chase's voice was shrill. Gray ignored him knocking on the door to be let in. Chase's head kept peeking up over the small glass window in the door.

Gray came right up to me, giving me a tight hug. He wasn't warm either, just like Chase. Room temperature was generous. I froze in his arms. He was even taller than Chase. My head was level with his sternum; I was swallowed whole by his figure. His muscles and skin were soft; silken. My hands stuck out awkwardly from my sides, still grasping my apple. Chase looked like a puppy, staring in so wracked with jealousy from the window. I finally patted Gray's lower back with my free hand, hoping he'd release me soon. Not that I mind, truly…

He pulled away, leaving his hands on my shoulders. His grin was goofy and didn't quite fit his handsome face. He was so stoic last night; that suited him better.

"How was your sleep?", he asked while winking at me. I rolled my eyes.

"It was alright I guess", I said dismissively. I waved my hand in front of my face.

"I guess we'll have to give it more juice next time, huh?", he said coyly. He dropped his hands and gently bumped my hip with his. He turned back to the door. A hammer, nails, the old lock, and some scraps of paper laid on the ground inside the door. His shirt was tucked into the back of his pants. He looked like a gangster wannabe, in a cute way. I couldn't help but laugh when I looked up to the window and saw Chase still sulking. I walked past Gray and opened the door to put him out of his misery.

"Good morning", I said, taking a bite of my apple. His eyes lit up a little. He took a triangular piece of wood and shoved it in the door to prop it open. If looks could kill, Gray would be on his back belly up. Chase shot daggers at him.

"You're lucky we don't bleed and aren't as fragile as she is", Chase said, pointing at me while rubbing his nose. "I think you broke it."

"You practically asked for it", Gray said, shrugging. I watched his pectorals bulge indulgently as he lifted his arms. I couldn't stop staring and had to catch myself and look away frequently the rest of the time they replaced the lock. They were making good progress, actually. I sat on the front stoop. It was misting, but not a full rain. I finished my apple and played with the core, picking the seeds out, one by one. Miss Hima came back from grocery shopping, met by two shirtless boys fixing her locks.

"What do you boys think you're doing?", she asked suspiciously. Her steely gray eyes darted between them, assessing. "I called the locksmith for this", she finished, her face wrinkled in confusion. Chase stood up; his shirtless chest much less muscular compared to Gray. Gray stood up as well, wiping rain from his forehead. His long black braid stuck to his back in places. Miss Hima stared too; at least it wasn't just me. I felt less awkward.

"Well, are you going to introduce me, girl?" she asked, turning her attention to me, clicking her tongue in distaste at my lack of manners. I stuttered. Chase saved me again.

"This is a university buddy of mine", Chase said, patting Gray's shoulder. Gray mustered a smile and tried not to pull away from Chase's touch. He didn't look repulsed by Chase's touch, but I'm sure Chase was squeezing him harder than he was letting on. Children. All three of us smiled at her simultaneously and hopefully not too falsely.

"Very well, but the locksmith?", she probed again.

"I told him we'd do it. He left the doorknobs, deadbolt, and all the keys for the tenants here for us. We got this", Chase said, striding up to her, now resting a hand on her shoulder. He gave it a quick squeeze. She seemed slightly under his spellbinding gaze. At least it isn't just me, I confirmed with myself again.

"Do you want some help with your groceries?", I asked, desperate to leave this situation. I set my apple core on the stair as I rose to my feet, dusting my hands off, wiping them on my pants.

"That would be appreciated, dear", she said, extending an armful of paper bags my way. I took up three of her four bags as she passed me on the way inside. I looked back at the boys, both had their hands on their hips, giving me the exact same look of pride. Are they both trying to sleep with me now? How ridiculous. I'm not even anything to look at. I shook my head at them, clicking my tongue.

We ascended the stairs. As soon as we were out of earshot around the second floor, Miss Hima sighed and laughed. I didn't have to see her face to know she was going to tell me exactly how she felt. I braced myself for ridicule but instead got sympathy.

"Your boyfriend has competition. Did you see the way that taller fellow looked at you? He has eyes only for you", Miss Hima said; it was almost jealousy in her voice.

"I hadn't noticed. Chase has been so good to me. I barely have eyes for anyone else", I played along to his little charade of me being his girlfriend to avoid suspicion. I couldn't exactly tell her the truth.

"I wouldn't be nearly as strong willed as you, young lady. You're both lucky to have a love like that", she said laughing again. Is she insinuating... that if she were me, she'd have her hands all over Gray? I shook my head violently as the thought crossed my mind. None of the three of us are even together romantically. Won't be, to boot. Regardless of how dangerous of a game I play with Chase, I don't think I want a relationship with him. This whole situation is preposterous. Me? With either of them? In my dreams maybe. That didn't comfort me either, seeing as they were both in my dreams, quite literally.

"I have some decent self-control, I suppose", I forced a laugh for her sake. I got her to her door safe and sound.

"Just leave the bags there dear, I can get them in. Those stairs are killer on my lonesome with arms full", she said pointing to her door mat. We said our goodbyes. I could have sworn I heard her say 'good luck' as she closed the door. Luck wasn't exactly what I had in mind. The boys came clomping up the stairs a little after us. Chase looked so pale in the fluorescent lighting; Gray looked so radiant. I looked between both of their faces and sighed.

"Let's go talk about what we should do, I guess", I said, turning my back on them. I could feel them both staring at my back. I turned the corner, only to see my door open wide again. My mouth hung open in shock and awe. What. The. Fuck? Chase blew past me before I could even fully process what I was seeing. Gray came up behind me and put his arm around my shoulder, eventually putting himself between me and the open door. Chase was already inside before I could say any words.

"How... is this possible? We were all at the only entrance and exit all morning", I whispered, bewilderment in my eyes. I felt like my privacy was so violated. Gray let go of my shoulders and placed his hands on either side of my neck. His eyes said it all.

"We are here to protect you. No matter what", he said sternly. I believed him. He let my neck go and took my hand in his, leading me towards my door. He entered first. I couldn't help but hold his bicep as I timidly entered behind him. Chase was sniffing the air around the living room like a bloodhound.

"It was another nightmare", he said confidently. He continued to look around, heading into my bedroom. The balcony door was ever so slightly open. I gently patted Gray's arm, pointing at it. I know for a fact I checked if they locked it before they went downstairs. I saw it with my own eyes. My panic rose in my chest so high it choked me. He nodded, without saying a word, directed me towards my front door again. He looked me in my eyes; they said stay put. He let out a light whistle and Chase appeared from the bedroom. Gray pointed at the balcony. Chase nodded and they both inched closer. My back prickled. The hair on the back of my neck stood up. I had a hand firmly against the wall, peeking my head around to see. I wondered if this thing had used the balcony as an entrance and escape route this time, instead of the front door. Chase flung the balcony door open, my breath hitched in my throat.

Twist

Chase threw open the balcony door and my hand flew to my throat, grasping lightly at the neck of my hoodie. There was nothing but my plants, now overturned. Dirt on the wood showed footprints, definitely not human. Three toed- almost dinosaur like in nature. Broken pottery littered the surfaces but barely obstructed the demonic looking footprints. Triangular in shape, with huge claws. They had scraped into the wood. It was one of the scariest things I'd ever seen. My heart almost stopped. Chase leaned over the balcony, scanning the area. What did it want with me? Something that large could have easily made off with me if it wanted to. I was standing right there. Gray came back over and put an arm around me, shielding me. Chase slammed his fist on the railing, making the metal and wood shake and creak. I leaned my head into Gray's chest, attempting to process what this all meant.

"It could have taken me. Why didn't it? I was sitting right there, practically on a serving tray. So, what's the point of stalking me?", I asked, my voice shaking. Both boys looked at me and then at each other, having not had that realization. I pulled away from Gray and sat on the couch, leaning my head back and staring at the ceiling. There were footprints up there too. What the fuck, man? It sent a chill down my spine.

"Well, maybe whatever it is, it's trying to find a weak spot in our defenses?" Chase probed the question, rubbing the sides of his face anxiously, coming back inside.

"No. I was all alone this morning probably for upwards of an hour or more probably, remember? I was even sleeping. What better opportunity did that thing have? I was gift wrapped!", I asked, throwing my hands up in the air and slapping them down on the couch in exasperation. I searched and searched for some explanation. The boys looked at each other again, exchanging looks of worry and confusion while standing on opposite sides of the room.

"Do you think that maybe it means to take her to the dream realm? As a prize? As a mate?" Gray rubbed his chin, visibly uncomfortable.

"As a mate?", I asked, dumbfounded. I lifted my head to look at Gray, raising an eyebrow. He wouldn't meet my eyes. Neither would Chase.

"Every few thousand years or so, they bring a human female to... well, uh, make more nightmares. Time doesn't work the same way there as it does here. Neither does… reproduction. Weeks here is almost half a century there", Chase said awkwardly.

"With your unusual abilities, you'd make absolutely unparalleled offspring, even with our kind. It's true. Nightmares of your production, your lineage would be absolutely lethal if they could slip past the barrier of consciousness in normal humans", Gray said, contemplating, but shivering at the thought.

"But then why didn't it take her when it had the chance if that was the goal?", Chase said, wringing his hands nervously. Something was missing. We weren't seeing something so important. We were missing a key piece to this puzzle. And where does this thief come into play? What's the next move? Something in my brain clicked. It hit me like a slap.

"Did it ever occur to you that my phone has all my personal information…?", I asked both of them. I looked back and forth between them, watching them connect the dots with me.

"My birthday, who my parents were, everywhere I've ever been pinged with check ins, my close connections personally and professionally, my friends, all of my social media, pictures of me, my recent calls and texts, my astrological signs, where I worked, my current address, bank information, hell probably my social security is in there somewhere, every speck of information about me…", I trailed off. They were gathering intel for something bigger that puzzlingly had to do with me. I was going to be the queen of this chess set. They wanted to use me to acquire something. Now just wasn't the time to pluck me up. They planted the seed of something here, within me. Was that the reason for my "powers", or were my powers just a plus to them in whatever they were planning? The only sure thing: they'd be back to reap what they sewed. The boys were mortified at this revelation.

"There was never a burglar that was human. It was a distraction, or something to distract my attention so they could slowly make sure I was exactly what they wanted for whatever they're plotting. I was never mundane or boring to them, it was a farce to cover something up", I whispered. It sounded so surreal to say it out loud. How is this real? Why me? My head felt light, like I was going to faint. The boys sat on either side of the couch with me. They each took one of my hands.

"We will never let anything happen to you, you know that, right? We'll be here as long as there's a threat. We'll stay after if you're not comfortable being alone after this is all said and done", Chase said, squeezing my hand. Gray nodded in agreement.

"She cannot ever be alone. One of us has to attend to her, every second of every day. One of us should take turns sleeping while the other watches over her. And we should take her to see my elder or your elder or the different mountain witches. We should also seek the council. They may have answers we need to better protect her. Figure out what she is. To maybe even stop this plan the nightmares concocted", Gray said. Chase searched my face while nodding in agreement. I felt nauseous. I stared straight ahead, unsure of how to feel short of fear, if I could even distinguish feelings anymore. He laid the back of his hand against my forehead. His skin felt colder than normal.

"Lay down. Sleep. Gray and I will come up with a solid plan, we'll contact who we need to talk to", Chase said, genuinely concerned. He and Gray stood up, helping me to my feet, keeping my hands tightly in theirs. I got into bed and wrapped the blankets up around me. Gray walked back out of the bedroom but stayed near the doorway. He pulled the beads into their holder, then folded his arms and leaned on the frame. Chase sat on the edge of my bed, wiping my hair out of my face and tucking it behind my ear. I met his eyes, and my face must have given me away. He gave me a weak smile. His hand stopped by my ear.

"Can I get a little help with sleep...?", I asked, not sure if he would comply given the current situation. He closed his eyes slightly, leaning in towards my face. His white eyelashes barely concealed the bright green of his eyes. His breath smelled strong of pine trees; outside. His whole aura screamed forest. He exhaled deeply into my face, and I was surrounded by glitter. My mind went blank in a matter of seconds. I felt almost instant emotional relief. I couldn't have cried if I wanted to.

Essence

The first thing I saw when I woke up was Gray directly across the bed from me. This was not a sight I ever thought I'd see. He seemed so peaceful; a stark contrast to the concern he had written on his face earlier. His long black hair wasn't tied, cascading over my pillows like an inky waterfall. He truly was beautiful, too. But in such a different way from Chase. It was almost painful to look at him. His smell was also vastly different from Chase. His was more of a floral and earth smell, not a woods smell. Speaking of Chase, where was he?

I looked around the room. No Chase. He was probably on lookout duty, sitting in front of the door like a guard dog. I rolled onto my back and put my arms above my head and stretched. Gray stirred beside me. He propped himself up on his arm and stifled a yawn, covering his mouth. I met his eyes, and they had the same sense of danger as Chase's. Not quite human; not quite evil, but not fully good either. He searched my eyes as I searched his. I finally had to ask. I hoped it wasn't too forward or awkward.

"Why do you and Chase stare so intensely at me? Do I have something on my face? Or am I just ugly?" I asked, swiping my fingers under my eyes and over my chin. I could feel a rogue hair brushing my face. With his free hand, he dragged his fingertips over my forehead, down my nose and chin, over my throat, and onto my chest. His touch felt electric. A smile danced across his lips.

"Do you want me to show you how we both see you? How nightmares see you? How I'm sure our elders and the witches will see you? Not how human eyes see?", he asked, his fingers lingering over my throat again. All I could muster was a nod. He got out of bed, extended a hand to me, motioning to the bathroom. I rose so slowly; everything still hurt. I wonder what he could be talking about. Do I look different to nightmares and the people who can cross consciousness and manipulate dreams? I didn't even have a name for the boys. A species. I stopped a few steps outside the dark bathroom, still holding Gray's hand. I bit at my thumbnail on my free hand.

"Hey, Gray? What should I call you and Chase? Like, what are your people called? In the dream realm?", I gathered the gall to ask. He tilted his head to the side and raised an eyebrow, surprised that this was my angle of questioning.

"We're dream walkers. People have called us all different things over the course of time. We're not a new species. We've been mistaken for vampires even. But I'd say Sandman is a slang we've adopted and widely accepted", he said, giving me a squeeze. He smiled encouragingly. Sandman... as in the song? My head ached as I grasped the concept. I'll take that as an appropriate answer for now. It explained a lot, anyways.

I stepped in the bathroom behind Gray. He centered me in the mirror and slid the door closed, allowing barely any light in.

"Take your shirt off", Gray said, tugging at my sleeve. I blushed harder than when Chase teased me. He was more forward than Chase. Chase at least made it a game of sorts. I wondered why these boys were so rowdy. I slapped his hand away while gasping, clutching a hand to my chest.

"I promise, you'll only get the full effect if you see what I see", he said while backing up to give me space, his palms up as a peace offering. He wasn't insatiable like Chase though. I'll trust him for now. I pouted but took off my sweater. I was self-conscious about how flat chested and scrawny I was. I grabbed at my arms while they were folded.

"Okay, so this is how I'm going to show you. Don't flinch. I'm going to stand behind you, grab your head with my hands, tilt your head backwards and channel my vision into your eyes. It's one of my abilities", he stated. He wasn't fazed by my partial nudity at all, unlike Chase. Not visibly anyways. His plan to show me this seemed clean cut enough, just like him. I shook myself out, letting my arms fall to my sides. I brushed my hair behind my shoulders. I was as ready as I was ever going to be. I planted my feet tightly into the bathroom mat.

"Ready?", he asked. I nodded, unsure of what to expect. He moved behind me, his stomach against my back and his palms right above my ears. His fingertips almost covered the back part of my eyelids. He slowly tilted my head back and my eyes naturally fluttered closed. I felt a surge of energy like I did on the bed, starting at my temples that quickly circulated my eyes and my neck. I opened my eyes in surprise. I was met with a neon purple light shining on the ceiling, next to an off-white, lily colored light. Gray tilted my head forward slowly, almost letting me see the mirror.

"Are you really ready to see? There's no going back from this, you understand?", he asked pointedly.

"I am ready", I said, my fingers began tingling with this power. Is this his power, or mine? He tilted my head all the way forward, making me eye level with the mirror. I was seeing myself through his eyes but also mine simultaneously, like seeing multiple mirrors in a line. His eyes were a vivid and lively orchid purple. Light danced through curls of smoke his body was giving off. Was that his aura? He had strange markings all over his face, down to his stomach. I assumed they continued over his groin and legs. His black hair looked darker than ever, despite the light his eyes and markings were radiating. His skin looked gray in comparison to his light. His mouth opened, letting more purple light illuminate the surrounding area as he spoke.

"Stop gawking at me, look at you!", he exclaimed, chuckling. My eyes moved from his face to mine. My hair was stark white and seemed to be flowing in some unknown breeze. My skin was now entirely blacked out, only apart from the intricate and lacing designs shining through my skin. I looked as if I was rubbed with charcoal powder. The white light shooting through my skin was far brighter than Gray's light; it almost drowned him out. My patterns changed and moved, unlike Gray's, which stayed solidly in his skin, only the light moving and fluctuating underneath. I took my own breath away.

My eyes were beacons of yellow and white light. The markings on my face seemed tribal, but it was hard to see because they moved under my skin so fast. As I leaned forward to look closer, Gray leaned in behind me, not breaking his grip on my temples. My fingers brushed my face in an attempt to rub it off, to no avail. My hair floated higher and higher, finally into Gray's face, although he didn't seem bothered by it in the slightest. I looked down at my chest, the patterns moving like snakes under my skin. I was so fascinated by what the markings meant. My hand brushed the skin of my chest, the markings moving under my touch like ripples on a body of water. I stood back up, slowly turning my head from side to side, sizing myself up.

I looked like something out of a fairy tale book. Absolutely ethereal. Absolutely unreal. This is how everything from their world sees me? This is how Gray and Chase see me? No wonder they stare for so long. I thought I was the most plain, almost unpleasant thing to look at. It also explains why Chase followed me home that first night. As I turned my head again, my hair floated in the opposite direction as if it was suspended in water. My hands grabbed my hair and held it down as I tied it back. I looked in the mirror again, still admiring myself. A sudden light flooded the bathroom as the door creaked open.

Chase stood in the doorway. His skin was a pasty gray, just like Gray's. Electric green now joined the purple and white lights. My mouth dropped when I looked at him. His skin bore the same marks as Gray, but his skin was scarred, just like the night I first met him. Green light tried to peek through those cuts. He looked like he was about to burst at the seams, his light seemed to be almost too much for his vessel to hold. He smiled weakly at me, gently taking my chin in his hand.

"Don't look so upset. I'm not in any danger just yet. I can take a couple more hits before I crack", Chase said sadly. His hand dropped to his side. I felt Gray's hands slide from my head, and the vision of Chase turned back to him appearing human. The light in the bathroom dulled to natural light again. I felt tears well up in my eyes. I jumped forward, holding my arms out and engulfing Chase in a tight hug. My tears ran down my cheeks, stinging and hot. I knocked him over, now laying on him between his legs, sobbing.

"What happens if you're hurt again?" I whispered into his chest. He patted my head with one hand, supporting us both with the other. He laughed. He sat up further and Gray grabbed me under the armpits and lifted me up. Gray was laughing too, which was only making me mad. As I wiped my eyes, I could feel both of them looking at me.

"I got these from misbehaving, you know. Think of it like being reprimanded with detention in the human world", Chase said, rubbing my back. I could almost tell he felt bad for laughing.

"But your light! It looked like it was about to explode out of you!", I whispered again, my voice cracking. He shook his head and scratched the back of his neck.

"It'll take a lot more than that before I'll actually die, you know", he said. Now I just felt silly. He patted my head again. Gray took my hand in his. His eyes searched my face. I looked up at him, expecting to see his purple ghostly eyes. I was met with his almost normal human ones.

"So that's how you see me, all the time?", I asked, changing the subject. I looked over to Chase, expecting an answer from him too. He stood nervously at the corner of my bed.

"Just about always. I can control which ways I see. I can switch between different levels of consciousness", he explained, rubbing the back of my hand again.

"So... Do you look at me through those eyes all the time?", I pushed the subject further. He nodded, excitement in his eyes.

"Yeah, I do. It's just so interesting, especially when you sleep. You're one of the most exquisite creatures I've ever seen. Those patterns aren't a dialect I can read, though. What about you, Chase?", Gray asked. We both turned to look at him.

"They belong to multiple tribes, and I could safely assume that there's one from each floating around in there. I only recognized mine, the nature tribe. They seem to alternate to her mood though, did you notice?", Chase asked Gray. They both rubbed their chins, turning to me. I felt so self-conscious, now that I knew they could both see things I couldn't. I felt heat. I was so embarrassed.

"See, right there!", Chase jumped forward at me while pointing a finger at my forehead. He gently tapped, and their faces both changed from excitement to confusion. I could only assume my mood changed to confusion as theirs did based on their reaction.

"See! There it goes again!", Chase said more excitedly than the first time. His fingers caressed the skin on my neck so gently, despite how excited he was.

"What are you two seeing?", I asked, not sure if I wanted the answer. I looked between both of them, and they looked at each other and back to me.

"Your language and pattern changes with your mood or current thoughts. It fluctuates at different rates and velocities", Gray said, moving his hand up my back and resting a hand on my shoulder. My bare shoulder. I gasped, grabbing my breasts as I flushed again and turned away from both of them, remembering that I was naked on my top half. Gray draped my blanket over me before I could make a bigger stink. I looked back at them both. They were both smiling the same way; both had their hands on their hips.

"How do normal humans look…?" I asked.

Chase spoke up. "If a human has strong enough energy tied to a particular element, they'll resonate with it visually. Sometimes it's an aura, sometimes it's sigils like us. Color coordinates to a specific tribe. Nothing like you, though."

"So, what do we do now that we have this information?", I asked, still flustered. The boys exchanged looks again. They were both so excited.

"We have a few choices; we can go to the council of Dream walkers, we can go to the tribal elders and representatives, or we can figure out a way to extract and weaponize your essence and do the other two things suggested with a potential weapon of mass destruction", Chase said. "Or we can go rogue and consult with the witches." His smile spelled trouble. Gray and I exchanged a worried look; he ultimately shrugged. I sighed and shook my head. The last option was off the table until we had more information.

"I want to see what the tribal elders have to say, maybe they've encountered a busted human like me before", I said, making my position firm and known. Both boys nodded in agreement. We had a solid plan, finally.

Journey

"If we're leaving for any amount of time, we need to tell Miss Hima", I said, wrapping the blanket under my arms and around my ribs. I stepped back into the bathroom and slid my hoodie back on. I walked back out and both boys were sitting on the bed, waiting patiently. They both rose to their feet when I re-entered the room. Why were they being so formal? They're so weird. They couldn't be bothered six hours ago. The sudden shift in energy left me reeling. I tossed the blanket past them on the bed. I still had questions. I looked them both in the eyes, unrelenting. I hoped I looked as stern as I felt. I also hoped they were looking at me through their second level consciousness eyesight. I folded my arms and laid in hard with the questioning.

"So, how do we get there? How long will we be gone? Is there an entrance to your world that's human-side that doesn't require a consciousness shift? Because I don't know how to do that yet. What do we do about nightmares we encounter along the way? Do I need to bring anything? Do we have a backup plan if the elders can't help, or won't help?", the questions flew out of my mouth at a mile a minute. The boys looked at each other and back at me, eyes widening by the question.

"I think we should take you to my tribal elder first, he's a little more… understanding than Gray's...", Chase suggested. Gray didn't look a bit offended, so it must be true.

"He currently resides in the dreamworld on the base of a mountain not too far from here, actually", Chase followed up quickly. That's only a few hours away by train. We could do that. The only problem was my job. I'd have to call in. Which would be hard without a phone. I groaned and threw myself onto the bed. Gray sat on the corner, but Chase laid down next to me. He poked my cheek until I looked at him. What a pest.

"What's the holdup with this plan all of a sudden? Weren't you ready to leave seconds ago?", Chase asked. I rolled onto my side to face him and rested my head in my hand.

"My second job. I'm supposed to be on a closing shift tonight. I can't call off though, seeing as I don't have a phone", I said, pondering how much money I would need for a new one. Chase looked over his shoulder at Gray. Gray left to the living room, quickly returning. He handed me a rectangular white box. It was heavy. I looked between the two of them, the oddest feeling of uncertainty settling in my stomach. I sat up to open the box, and slid the cover off, exposing a new phone. I looked back and forth between them both again, suspicious. They both looked nervous. Chase probably told Gray about the money situation and how I reacted. They were both fidgeting.

"Wow, I... Thank you", I managed to get out finally. I was absolutely dumbfounded. They both relaxed their posture, and both sighed in relief. Was I that terrifying when I was mad? I chuckled to myself.

"Well, after you brought it up earlier, we both couldn't stop thinking about how true it was. Your entire social timeline was taken from you. We thought it would mean a lot to you to have some of it back. We know it doesn't fix everything…", Chase said, patting my shoulder. I nodded and held the box to my chest. It was one of the sweetest things anyone had done for me, ever.

"I guess I should call them. Something tells me this hike is going to be an all-day project. Thanks again, guys", I said. I leaned in and kissed Chase's cheek. He looked so bewildered. I looked up at Gray and saw him blush for the first time ever. I stood up and gave him a quick peck too. His hand flew to his cheek and held where my lips had brushed. I turned and walked out into the living room to figure out how my phone worked. The boys looked at each other in shock.

. . . . . . . .

I packed an extra change of clothes, a few water bottles, a heavy jacket and boots, and multitudes of energy snacks and drinks. I had a feeling this one day trip wasn't going to be just one day in reality. I zipped the backpack closed. I had my wallet, my apartment keys, my new phone, and a pocket knife and compass all on my person in the front pockets of my raincoat. I turned and threw the backpack over my shoulder. I walked out of the bedroom into the living room. The boys were all packed and ready too, sitting patiently on the couch watching TV. I paused at the balcony door. I was eyeing some rope I used to tie my plants to sticks to keep them upright. It couldn't hurt to bring it with me, right? I stepped onto the balcony and swiped it.

"Hey guys...?", I said only loud enough for them to hear.

"Yeah, what's up?", Chase asked, turning around. He looked at my back, then up past where my head was tilted. Gray turned slowly around as well. We all met eyes with a small nightmare. It was shaped like a bat, hanging upside down off the bottom of my upstairs neighbors balcony. I had almost missed it but it stuck out against the medium gray sky. Both boys were tense, I could feel it. I didn't blink while slowly backing away, retreating inside. I slid the door closed, still on my hands and knees. I sat on my butt and continued to stare at it. It wasn't blinking or moving either. As Gray and Chase moved towards me, it opened its wings and flew away into the early afternoon light.

"Do you think... is it spying? Don't nightmares usually come out at night only?", I asked. The boys both nodded as I looked between them.

"Definitely doing reconnaissance work", Gray agreed. I stood up with their help. I handed the rope to Chase. He stuffed it in the top of his backpack. I dusted myself off. This was going to be a long trip. We stopped at Miss Hima's door on the way out. I knocked lightly. A few seconds passed, and the door creaked open.

"Hello, Jasmine", she greeted me. I waved and smiled at her. Her expression softened when she saw the boys. She poked her head out from behind the door.

"We're going to be gone for the day, possibly this evening depending on how long this hike takes. Please take care", I nodded quickly and the boys followed suit. She reached out of her door and patted the back of my hand. She was always so nice to me. We said the rest of our goodbyes and headed down the stairs. We walked over the cobble bridge and I couldn't help but stop and stare at the swollen stream below. It's funny how time changes people and places. I shook the thought out of my head and continued on. We made it to the train station in decent time; less than a forty minute walk. We embarked, all sitting next to each other. What luck. I was stuck in the middle.

As the train started to pick up speed, I felt my head start to grow heavy. I tried my hardest to keep my eyes open. Chase looked over at me from the aisle side seat. He gently patted my thigh and motioned with his fingers to lay my head on his shoulder. Gray grabbed my hand from the window seat, giving it a gentle squeeze. Rain started pouring down the window and lightning flashed across the sky, like fingers streaking through sand. I let my head rest on Chase's shoulder. He put his cheek on the top of my head. Gray leaned over and put his head on my shoulder, making a point to sigh. His long black braid trailed down the front of his white jacket like a stain. I'm sure we looked like quite the company. The boys were probably so tired. They deserved that nap, regardless of how short it was. It took a matter of only minutes before I succumbed to sleep as well. The train ride was going to be our only rest for a while to come.

Trek

The train came to a gentle stop. The stop was announced, and the doors made a soft chime to disembark. I lifted my head sleepily and Chase's head snapped up. He yawned loudly and I brought my hand to my face to rub the sleep out of my eyes. The hand still entwined in Gray's was now sweaty and uncomfortable. They're human enough to sweat. Or maybe it was all mine. Gross. I shuddered. I gently rustled his hair, and he opened his eyes slowly. We gathered our backpacks from between our knees and made our way towards the doors with the rest of the passengers, our eyes peeled for trouble. At this point, everything was a potential threat. Gray kept his hand on my shoulder, and I kept my hand in Chase's. Getting separated now could be catastrophic if the nightmares were truly following us. Not that they'd outright attack from what we'd seen. Better safe than sorry.

We exited onto the platform and made our way towards the small town, less than a mile from the station. We followed one winding, thin road deep out of the town and into the forest at the base of the mountain. We walked at least a couple miles in before the foliage became dense. I paused as we approached a very large, thick oak tree. I put my hand on the trunk, closing my eyes and breathing in deep. The air was different out here. Calmer. Brighter. It felt magical to get away from the city. The rain was so diluted by the trees, I had almost forgotten it was actively pouring. I lifted my head to the sky to inspect. The boys stopped and turned back towards me, watching me intently. I turned to look at them, dropping my hand to my side again. They seemed to be staring past me, at a second glance. I turned to investigate, only to see the ghostly outline of a stag far off in the distance. It stood easily at a man's height at the shoulders, the antlers sharp and long. It was a hazy, transparent white. Spectral. I could see the foliage through its glossy coat. I couldn't tell if it was because it was from the dream realm, or because of the rain.

As I blinked, it appeared closer. I took a step towards the boys and they each reached out a hand to offer to me. There was short foliage that could easily be tripped over. I didn't take my eyes off the deer as it walked past us and further into the forest in the direction we were headed.

"Are we supposed to be following it?", I asked, barely loud enough to hear over the rain.

"Absolutely. That's the forest totem. My elders' spirit guide, as a matter of fact. He is expecting us", Chase responded, also in a whisper. We kept our hands joined as we ventured deeper and deeper into the forest after the creature. We approached a small clearing after walking for what felt like hours. The sky had darkened significantly. My legs protested with the steps I took uphill. Was I ever going to be in shape? Chase was now in the lead. He seemed very familiar with the territory, which gave me comfort. At least we weren't lost. This is his home turf.

As we approached the clearing, the trees seemed to take shape into a circle, intentionally planted as a base. The treetops created a dome, an outdoor cathedral. Chase reached a hand between some trees and his hand seemed to warp and eventually disappear. The air between the trees rippled like the surface of touched water. He squeezed my hand gently, his eyes now glowing that vibrant leaf green. He smiled ear to ear and passed through this unusual barrier. My hand disappeared as well as I followed Chase through. Gray followed close behind. The small village looked like any ordinary human village, minus the humans. It was a multitude of animals, fae, half-breeds of animals and humans, and exceptionally old humans at easily a few hundred years each. My eyes darted between all of them. They varied a range of reactions towards us, but mostly surprise. 

"I thought they were expecting us…?" I question Chase. "Oh, my elder is, I'm sure he's gone senile by now and simply forgot", he finished. I honestly couldn't tell if he was joking. I held my tongue. We moved closer and closer, and I wanted to cower and hide, I'd never had so many eyes on me simultaneously. Chase reminded me, "They see you the way we do, in our vision, you're… a spectacle to say the least."

"They really are staring at me...?", I whispered as I clutched Chase's jacket sleeve. He laughed heartily.

"I am telling you, you're truly nothing like anyone I've ever seen before. Of course, they're looking!", Chase said, composing himself as we followed the stag through a narrow street of the village. We eventually came up on a humble house atop a small hill. This must be it. My nerves began to get the better of me as we ascended. I couldn't help but fidget. Gray threw an arm around my shoulders, holding me in a quick hug to disguise the small advice he was whispering to me.

"Let Chase do the talking. If the elder has any questions directed towards you, then you speak. If you don't know the answer, squeeze my hand", he said, looking down into my eyes. His face seemed so stoic, but his eyes were alive. I nodded. Chase knelt outside the door, touching his head to the stone at the base. Gray and I followed suit. Chase rose when he heard someone inside finally stirring. We were met with a human looking man, old enough to have seen the invention of timekeeping and dirt itself; his eyes were sunk, his hair white where it still clung, his wrinkles deep like cuts in his skin. He barely looked alive, but his voice boomed with a power beyond his body's years.

"Chase! It's been so long! I was starting to think you'd forgotten about me, or hoped I died, boy!", the elder encircled Chase with his frail arms. Chase chuckled, patting the man's back. Chase turned and gestured to Gray.

"You remember the Warrior of Lightning, don't you?" Chase brought the two men together. I let Gray's hand drop as they met in the middle of the room. I awkwardly stepped out of the way, to the side, clasping my hands together in front of my legs. I looked down at my feet. The men exchanged more words, and I felt their attention shift to me.

"Now, what do we have here?", the old man asked, grasping the small white hairs on his chin in the thinnest goatee. He took two steps towards me, his dirty, taupe robes billowing in an unseen breeze. He reached a hand towards to me, and I placed my hand in his gracefully. He brought it to his lips but didn't touch them together. I gazed down at him and tilted my head to the side, our eyes meeting. He seemed exceptionally intrigued by me. I gave him a weak smile, followed by a nod after he released my hand. He motioned for us to sit on the floor on both side of a central table. As we took our seats, he motioned to cups that were filled with tea.

"Now, I believe you're here about her... ongoing condition", he said, while staring deep into my eyes. I eventually looked down at the table, embarrassed by his unabashed gaze. I learned that here, in the realms, eye contact was a sign of trust as opposed to a challenge, as Gray whispered to explain in my ear. The elder let out a sigh, scratching his chin. Chase placed both hands on the table. There was an uncomfortable silence. I held my tongue against the roof of my mouth, not sure what to do.

"Have you ever seen anyone like her before?" Chase asked flat out. The elder seemed unchanged by the lack of tact. He shrugged.

"Only once before, a creature of both light and dark. The offspring of the true Light Elemental and a female nightmare. A most unfortunate combination for the body and soul, but reminiscent of our friend here. Truly an abomination. But she seems to be a mixture of all clans and not only light, ruled by the sign of light most outwardly. Our warriors have always been male, but that's not to say we aren't able to conceive a female warrior. It's just never happened in our history. It does beg the questions though; who has created her, and why now did they decide to unleash her without training? Unfortunately for us, this condition… is manmade. For this to naturally occur… is impossible. Whether she was made by one of our kind in some… experiment, or a nightmare or their new usurper leader, I'm not entirely sure", he finished thoughtfully. His eyebrows knit together, and released as quickly as they came together. He seemed to be in pain.

"She is by far the strongest living weapon I've ever encountered in my time. As for history, I'm not sure. She looks identical to the DayDreamer, but she's part human, in the shell, part warrior in the fortification, in her soul. That's the only difference. DayDreamer was one of our kind. A warrior blessed with elemental powers. The fact that her inscriptions change is what perplexes me the most, though. Most unusual…", he added.

I met his eyes again, finding strength within myself I didn't know I had. His gaze triggered a memory, long forgotten… I felt it bubble up in my chest and spill out through my skin at an alarming pace. DayDreamer? Where did I know that from? Why is that familiar? As my mind started to soar, my body felt hotter and hotter like a fever flash. The light slowly grew lighter and brighter until I was entirely filled; no shadows escaped my light. It was so bright; I couldn't see either my boys or the clan elder any longer. My mind started to go blank again.

Portal

The light kept pouring out; I had visions of another time, another place, flooding my mind faster and faster. I saw faces of people I've never met, places far away from my little town I grew up in, more blood spilled than I had ever seen in my short existence. True, bona fide war. Death. Rot. Ultimate betrayal. Not all these memories were mine, but I felt so responsible for their contents as they whipped through my mind. It was simultaneously awe inspiring as it was truly traumatic. I tried so hard to pull myself out of the fast approaching darkness in my mind, but it came up at me like a wave of a tsunami. These visions were memories, my own sprinkled in seemingly randomly. The last thing I saw before my mind went blank was a nightmare with a startlingly human face, something I had seen before. I wondered if the boys had…

. . . . . . . .

"Jas? Hey, come back to us now, babe", Chase's voice echoed, and felt so far away as it rattled me from this nightmare. I heard snapping fingers. A light slap on my cheek. How long has it been? The same goddamn nightmare I had been having for years, before Chase was even in my life, was again plaguing me. That face, so startlingly familiar… the one that's haunted my dreams… Why was I having these visions? Or were they dreams or nightmares? I couldn't tell up from down if you paid me right now. I felt a cold hand press against my forehead. My eyes were already open, but my vision slowly came back from black into focus. I was finally back in reality. I wondered how long I was out in the ether. It felt like somewhere even further than here, but somehow the same. My mind was still racing as I sat up, holding my forehead. Everything looked different. As I scanned the room, the corners seemed lighter when I knew there should be shadows cast by the candlelight. I saw flickers of smoke, wisps of light that seemed so tangible yet disappeared before I was able to discern them. I met Chase's eyes, shocked by what I saw.

His eyes glowed green, his skin a coal gray. The same light danced under his badly cracked skin. The realm vision. How was this possible? He wasn't using his ability to help me project his sight into my world. I'd feel it. I looked at the elder. His skin was evergreen and his eyes flickered a soft, olive light. He had no markings the way Chase and Gray did, but his aura surrounded him strong and steadfast. He really was human then, like Gray said. I finally looked at Gray, his long black hair cascading over his neon purple markings. Why am I seeing them like this? The visions have never let me see like this before now. What changed? Why all of a sudden? I looked between all their eyes, dumbfounded. 

I looked down at myself; I was absolutely naked. My hands flew to cover my chest and my groin. Was modesty a concern in this realm? Gray leaned forward and draped a blanket over my shoulders. I looked down again, my charcoal black skin blacked out everything but my hair and my now sedentary markings. They still swirled with white light, but the markings were now permanent, as if they had settled in a comfortable spot like a cat in the perfect patch of sunlight. Utterly content. They were wider and bigger than Chase's and Gray's; more intricate and more feminine. I felt a fire within myself, consuming me whole but somehow leaving my body untouched. It hurt so fucking bad. The markings went everywhere on my body; my shoulders, arms, chest, ribs, hips, thighs, even my toes held the tiniest patterns. I looked up in confusion, searching for an answer in their faces. The elder was the first to break the deafening silence.

"Jasmine, was it? I do believe that you've been... implanted. To say, your soul. Into a mortal body. How, I'm not sure. The heart stone should have been safe in the hands of the Central Kingdom… This is indeed unusual, as the essence of the Daydreamer was put to rest a couple millennia ago, here in this realm. He made the ultimate sacrifice, his soul became a tangible item; a crystal, if you will. I witnessed and participated in the ritual personally to put him to rest after his war ended. Madness consumed him and while he was sane, his last request was to be… contained but not disposed of, shall I say. Somehow, it's… he's been reawakened now, within you. The heart stone has chosen you as a hostess, not an easily bestowed gift. Or perhaps an experiment, equally concerning. But I can say, with certainty, you are most definitely a reiteration, a reincarnation, of the DayDreamer. I wasn't aware that the DayDreamer could take a female form. Please allow my humble self to pay homage, and welcome you finally back home…", he said. He folded his legs under himself and leaned forward in a deep bow. He touched his head to the floor.

Chase and Gray both did the same. I was so confused by their sudden reverence. Without my own consent, my shoulders stiffened and leaned back, my hands brushed the blanket off. I was aware in my own head, fighting against the opposing will of my own body. The new markings I bore felt like a white-hot brand, but the pain lived… outside of my person, out of my skin. My chin held itself high, looking down my nose on them as if they were subjects. Disgusting, I thought. They're helping me, and my body has the nerve to look down upon them? "ENOUGH", a male voice in my head echoed so loud I swore it shook my bones. This fire in me burned even hotter, as if that was even possible. "DO NOT DEFY ME", again echoed through my skull. I stood myself up, my limbs felt longer and slenderer. I wondered if my body was actually any different than that skinny nothing I was before. The men all sat up, waiting on me to speak.

"Take me to the portal'', it flew out of my mouth before I could think. It was only half my voice. The other half was a seductive, yet gentle rasp in unison with my regular voice. They all blinked, and stood. I still stood far shorter than all of them, but I felt taller somehow. There was a newfound strength in my limbs. I felt like I could pick up a car and hurl it halfway across the continent. I was high on the power. I felt untouchable. I looked down at my limbs, clenching and unclenching my fists. I felt power well up in my palms, only to quickly dissipate. It came and went multiple times over the course of mere seconds. The men all looked exceptionally wary of my heightened excitement. My body again moved of someone else's accord, but somehow from within me. Am I fucking possessed? "If that's what you want to call it", I received a response in my head, to my own thoughts. I walked straight out of the front door. The dwindling sunlight made my skin tingle.

"The portal", I repeated, voice split. The elder pointed a skeletal finger over his hill, back the way we came. There was now a red beacon, seemingly of fire, reaching high into the clouds. Black smoke danced around the perimeter of the light. His hand trembled as I turned to him.

"You have been kind to help unleash my power. As a servant of the throne, please take this as my token of gratitude. It should see that you survive the coming storm, or maybe even buy mercy in your favor should you find yourself in peril for helping our cause, assuming you last that long…", I said, again only in half of my voice. I leaned forward, my fingers brushing my chest. I reached into a crevice in the design carved in my skin. My fingers produced a small, milky white crystal. It glowed from within. I took his hand in mine, palm up, and set it in his possession. He fell to his knees, his forehead again against the ground. He grasped it now with both hands. Gray and Chase both gathered my things, so quickly; tattered and burned clothes and backpack while exchanging unsure glances.

"Let us find mounts to carry us there", my muddled voice instructed. The boys took off ahead of me, but Gray turned back to ensure my footing down the grassy hill. Am I going to be stuck like this forever…? I asked, internally, praying for some answer. "Listen well, I am helping. You may not understand or appreciate it right now, but this is for your benefit. Do not fight me, for you should not fear me. I am you, and you are me now. We fight for the same cause, whether you realize it now or not. We are one…", the male voice had softened significantly and made my body move. Gray held an arm up, waiting for me to take it. I gently wrapped my fingers around his forearm. He winced at my touch. I looked into his eyes, searching for why he suddenly recoiled. My expression demanded an answer.

"You're, uh… running a little hot", he said, flustered and embarrassed. I loosened my grip, my free hand covering my mouth. I gripped his arm harder, making him wince again. It was so tantalizing that I couldn't get enough of making him uncomfortable. The heat radiating from my core was enough to make him uncomfortable. "As it should, you wield more than my original power", Daydreamer responded. I wondered what was so different between Gray, Chase and I that I wasn't empty, room temperature. "You wield the power of the sun", was the curt response I received, as if I was stupid. I seemed to have a solid core that Chase and Gray lacked. I continued to ponder that as we approached the main portion of the village. The townsfolk poured out to approach me. They brushed my feet with their hands, they threw offerings behind Gray and me. I wondered what was so great about the DayDreamer that they revered me so. "I was the closest thing to 'God' these people had." Although I was an apparent reincarnation, I still knew so little about my state and my seeming lack of control over some of my actions and thoughts.

Chase quickly appeared with four horses, although they looked different from the equine of my world. Much taller, four stronger legs, four eyes each. It didn't matter. I approached the black steed, sliding my hand up his muzzle. He fluttered his eyes and leaned into my hand, his ears flicking forward and backwards at my gentle kissing noises to appease him. Good. I'd have his utmost cooperation. "You will command more than nature…", he responded. My attention was drawn to a female half-doe standing in the crowd. Something about her aura drew me straight to her. I could… taste her suffering, as if it was a flavor of ice cream. She met my gaze, falling to the ground. She held a gauzy robe above her head; white and lacy. Not exactly my style, but it would do. I placed a hand on her head, between her long, furry ears. Her eyes momentarily showed the same white light as mine; she saw what I knew was the truth of her life. A good housewife, a good caregiver to her children. "She will find salvation in time, in this life". Her transgressions were not nearly as egregious as she made them out to be for herself, in her head, which somehow, I could read. I released her and she cried tears of joy, releasing the cloak into my hands. I threw it over my shoulders, Chase quickly ran to my side to move my hair as I fastened the clasps. Multiple, thankfully.

I threw my hair in front of my chest, pulling the hood over my head. Chase and Gray both held their hands next to the steed, helping my leg up and over his wide ribs. "I can tell this steed would not tire easily, just like me". The boys mounted their horses, pulling up the front and rear of my horse. I held a hand up, waving to the townsfolk. They all cheered, waved, and cried as we set off in the direction of the red pyre. We made it far into the field before I spoke again.

"Thank you for helping me realize who I think I'm meant to be, if you had any inkling as to what I was", I said in only my voice. DayDreamer seems to have butted out for the time being. I'm sure he can still hear my every thought though. They both stared at me. I turned back and forth between them. My voice was completely my own. They both nodded, but dared not speak. They could be afraid, I suppose. I am an "almighty being" in their world. But would I stay this way back in my realm? I still received no response. I suppose he wants me to get the hang of… being him, I guess. No pressure. 

I had so many questions as we set off deeper into the forest. The sun was still in the sky, but the moon was quickly approaching to our left. They both hung in the sky on opposite sides of the field. Peculiar. The boys said time doesn't work the same way here. I'd let it go for now. We soon approached a second clearing, the perfect place to set camp. I didn't feel tired, but I could see it on their faces that they were exhausted. As we came to a stop, I slid myself down off my horse. He didn't wander far, always keeping an eye in my direction, ears flicked back; on alert. The boys kept their distance from me. I wasn't too bothered by it, for now. We set down our sleeping bags in absolute silence. I moved to grab some firewood; Chase would swoop in and do it for me.

As I was eyeing the stream, Gray gently took the water bottles from me with a nervous smile and went to fill them up. How much longer was I going to be babied and doted upon?

"What has gotten into you two?" I asked sternly, crossing my arms, as they both returned to our new base. They both swallowed hard and stammered.

"My newfound condition didn't change anything on my end. My feelings for you two have stayed the same. Can you just act normal, please?" I pleaded, sitting down hard on the edge of my sleeping bag. They again exchanged glances.

"We'll try, but it's hard. We suspected that you were of our realm based on your appearance, but it's a lot to digest that you're the DayDreamer, you know. You're a bit of a celebrity around here", Gray said chuckling, walking up behind me and squatting. He placed a hand on my shoulder with a squeeze. In that single touch, my vision changed again, and I was hurled headlong into another memory.

Awakened

The vision came as quickly as it went into my head. It was a flash of a face; a familiar one. Gray's face was covered in small cuts and mud, but he smiled his charismatic smile through his obvious pain. His hair was matted to his cheeks, caked with twigs and leaves. He laid on his back, on the ground. My eyes quickly adjusted back to reality. I was staring directly into the now roaring fire. How long was I in the vision? I looked up at the sky, the sun and moon had barely moved. Most likely a matter of a couple minutes. Gray patted my shoulder, then took a seat next to Chase opposite me by the fire. Both of the boys chowed down on some of the snacks we had brought along. I contemplated telling them what I saw. I thought better of it, keeping it buried within me. Was it a premonition? A mere possibility based on our actions following this beacon. I shook the thoughts out of my head. Now, we just needed a plan. Did I suddenly have the ability to see the future now, too?

"So when we reach this tower, what are we supposed to do?", I asked, lightly tapping my thigh, anxious. I looked between both of the boys. Their gazes roamed my face and body. I looked down, my markings were still deep in my skin; the white light fluctuated, casting ribbons of light over the objects in front of me. My charcoal skin contained the light effortlessly. Not a crack in sight. I looked back up at the boys. Chase spoke first.

"To be honest, I think we're heading straight into a war zone by going there. Or a trap. Fire realm is notoriously… particular. They had a breach years ago, and nightmares can come and go there too. It's constant war. You haven't been reared or trained in how to control your power the way Gray and I have. I don't know if there is a good way to control it, seeing as you're a vessel for the spirit of the DayDreamer. Or tethered, whatever I should call it. That alone is going to be a hurdle. Human bodies are so fragile compared to us. The nightmares know this as well. I'm sure their leaders are conspiring as we speak, now that your body hasn't been rejected and has fully settled... I think we should take the time to show you a few things and gather some forces before we jump headlong into that particular portal", he finished, popping a cookie in his mouth. He looked to Gray, urging him to reaffirm his position.

"As crazy as it sounds, I do agree with him. We should take the time and effort to at least show you self defense and offensive maneuvers. Say that the nightmares are truly plotting something far more sinister than a kidnap, what could you do without knowing at the very least their weak spots? I don't like the idea of you being directly in harm's way, let that be known. But at this rate, we are left with few other choices. If we're ever separated… They've targeted you, and the last thing they'd expect is you on our front lines if this does come down to a fight. I'm sure they expect us all to keep you hidden away out of fear", Gray said, contemplating tactics. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

"Who do we need to see to train me?", I asked, backing this plan myself. I didn't relish the thought of lasting a matter of seconds in a "battle". Chase and Gray exchanged looks, smiling. They nodded at each other, then looked back at me.

"There was a female, twenty five hundred years ago in the human world, who escaped from the nightmare's realm. She bore children for the nightmares and escaped, lived to tell the tale. She has dedicated herself to the purification of nightmares. Not the killing of, the purification of. With her experience, a new element of dreams was born to be tangible. It's a third human, a third fire, and a third nightmare. They aren't… legitimate in the fire realm's eyes, unfortunately. But… She is a clan elder, for all intents and purposes. They're just unsanctioned, off the grid, so to speak. I think we need to talk to Matilda", Chase said excitedly.

"Woah, woah, wait. She's still alive? After a few millennia?", I asked, shocked. They both nodded. I leaned in.

"She lives in the makeshift realm of fire. She created that realm with her bare hands. Portal and all. That's how she learned the tactics we really need to seek. Nightmares don't do well with light. You're made entirely of light. You two will get along splendidly personality wise, so I'm not worried. We'll send out an announcement of our arrival first thing in the morning. I'm sure they'll welcome us, given your current state. We're in the Nature Realm currently but hopping the portal and diverting the magic to get to the fire realm should be simple enough. There's a realm for each of the elements, and fire is the most notoriously bad for hospitality." He grimaced at the thought. Something told me he knew from personal experience.

"But if we are able to reroute power, we can skip back to the human world, and straight to her in theory. You're the DayDreamer now though, they'd never dare cross you, your power, or position regardless of manifested power; your physical presentation is proof enough that it's irrefutable. But in the true Fire Realm if we can avoid stepping on toes where we can; we should. If we play this just right, we can have their entire clan on our side, which would be priceless to our cause. Central Kingdom approved or unsanctioned, regardless. If we come with the impression that we are the finest swordsmen and cavalry men, grease them up a little, we could work them to our advantage", Gray stated. He and Chase exchanged affirmative looks and started to break down for the night. This was good, we're making headway! We had a very solid plan now. I nodded, and looked up at the sky. The moon was far overhead now, the sun had slipped away beyond the horizon. I figured it meant very short nights and very long days. No wonder time worked differently here. I yawned and stretched, my now strong muscles began shivering. The cold was setting in, despite my internal heat.

I slipped into my sleeping bag, already feeling the day melt away. As I began to drift off, I heard footsteps and sleeping bags being dragged and set down on either side of me. The boys really weren't going to let anything get to me tonight, or ever it seemed. Not that I truly needed the help, anymore.

. . . . . . . .

The sun warmed my eyelids as it quickly rose overhead. I rolled onto my side, slowly awakened by the sounds of wildlife chittering. I sat up, reaching my arms towards the sky. The cloak fell around my waist and the sun warmed my skin. I looked around the small clearing; the boys had packed their bags, left by the remnants of the fire. The boys were nowhere to be seen. Oh well. The nightmares didn't seem to be able to breach this portal, so I wasn't too terribly upset to have been left alone. I stood and went into my backpack, pulling a very generic shirt and pants out. Snapping sticks distracted me. I looked up to see a young man, probably a few years younger than my human body, standing at the edge of the clearing. He blushed bright red as he looked at me, quickly averting his eyes. I approached him, not worried about modesty.

"State your purpose", I said sternly, again my voice merged with another coming deep from within me. I held a hand out, palm facing him. My body somehow knew how to subjugate him. He dropped onto one knee, kneeling, with his left arm across his chest.

"Master Chase has sent me to inform you that he has rallied with the Nature Realm. They will join you when it comes time. He has also sent me carrying gifts from the townspeople… If you will have them", he rose but kept his eyes down. He gestured vaguely back out the way we came in. He took a few steps forward and held out his arms, bearing what looked like a dress. I stepped forward lightly and took it. I pressed my palm to his forehead; he welcomed the gesture. His aura read as that of a gentle soul; non-argumentative, willing to please, from an apparent broken home. "Maybe I'll keep him around." I released him from my hold. He again dropped to one knee, pledging with his fist against his chest.

"I want to join your traveling party. Chase has advised me it's an ill decision, but I cannot stand idly by and allow those... things to continue to hunt you. I heard your story", he said, with distaste for the nightmares. I reached for his chin, tilting his head up, forcing him to meet my eyes. His skin was the same green as the clan's elder, but his eyes resonated with what I saw in Chase. It pulled my heartstrings. Another human…

"Stand. Pledge your allegiance to the Warrior of Light", I said. My voice was entirely gone, replaced by Day Dreamers. The young man stood with his hand still across his chest. He stood eye level with me. Same height. So young. He let his hand fall to his side as he closed his eyes, readying himself. I held my hand over the left side of his chest, energy surging through me. I felt my hand grow hotter than the leftover embers of the fire. I clasped it firmly over his breast, directly over his heart. He bit his lip and scrunched his nose but did not flinch from my touch. As I removed my hand after the heat died down, he was left with a burn pattern that resembled a small sun. I blew a stream of air on it; it responded like a fire, throwing white embers into the air. How was my body able to know what to do? I assumed it could only be the resonance of the spirit of the DayDreamer.

"I, Arlan, of the House of Nature, pledge myself as a squire to the Warrior of Light", he said, bowing deeply to me. I caressed his cheek with my index finger. "He is aware of the implications of his actions, don't feel too poorly for him", Day Dreamer interceded. I smiled weakly. I pulled the dress from my shoulder.

He stood with his back to me, arms folded, keeping watch as I slid on the dress. It was sheer and flowed in the slight breeze, as the cloak did. The material felt cold against my skin. I cleared my throat, Arlan turning his head slightly.

"Are you ready to head back to town?", he asked, offering me an arm. I gently shook my head and whistled. The horse trotted out of the woods, letting out a whinny. He walked right up to me. I met his eyes again. He lowered his head and grazed on the short grass in front of my feet. I looked to Arlan, gesturing for him to get on the horse.

"No, I- I'll walk", he insisted. His face turned beet red at the thought of sharing a mount with me.

"You willingly pledge your life to me, but won't share a horse?", I asked dubiously. He shifted his weight. He pondered the situation.

"I suppose you're right", he said, giving in. He hopped up with ease, holding a hand down to me. I grabbed his forearm, and he hoisted me up. He threw a glance over his shoulder, his face still lingering red.

"What about your packs?", he asked, scratching at his neck.

"I doubt anyone will touch them", I said firmly. I grabbed a handful of the horse's mane, pulling Arlan's arms around my waist. I could feel his blush; it spread down his neck and onto his chest. I nudged at the ribs of my mount, and he started at a slow walk, leading into a full gallop within seconds. Arlan bounced but held my waist tight.

We arrived in town in less than half of a human hour. We were greeted by the sight of mounds of offerings. Oh lord, I thought to myself. Here we go.