Chapter 21

Dream's eyes widened in surprise as Nightmare's words cut through the air. The admission of being wrong carried a weight of vulnerability and humility that caught Dream off guard. He had not expected such a declaration from Nightmare, especially after all the tension and revelations they had experienced.

"I... I appreciate your honesty, Nightmare," Dream replied, his voice filled with a mixture of surprise and gratitude. "It takes great strength to admit when we have made mistakes. We are all fallible beings, and it is through recognizing our faults that we can learn and grow."

Dream's expression softened as he continued, his heart filled with compassion. "We have both made mistakes, Nightmare, but it is never too late to make amends and find a path forward. Together, we can work towards rectifying the past and creating a better future, for Piko and for ourselves."

Dream's words hung in the air, carrying a sense of hope and possibility. Despite the challenges they had faced and the revelations that had shaken their understanding, he believed that they had the capacity to find redemption and forge a stronger bond. He hoped that Nightmare's admission of being wrong could mark the beginning of a journey towards healing and reconciliation.

"... Back to Piko's current situation. The thing that took her over was HATE. It's powered by her HATE for... for...." Nightmare sucked in his breath.

Dream's heart sank as Nightmare's words hung in the air. The revelation that Piko was consumed by Hate struck him with a mix of shock and anguish. He could feel the weight of Nightmare's words, the heaviness of the emotions that fueled the darkness within her. He knew that Hate carried a destructive power, capable of distorting and consuming even the purest of hearts.

"I... I can't bear to see Piko consumed by Hate," Dream whispered, his voice filled with a mixture of sadness and determination. "We have to find a way to free her from its grip, to bring her back to the light."

Dream's eyes met Nightmare's, filled with a pleading intensity. "Tell me, Nightmare, what is it that fuels Piko's Hate? I want to understand, to confront the source of her pain and help her find peace. We have to work together, to combine our strengths and find a way to save her."

Dream's voice trembled with a mix of urgency and hope. He knew that the journey ahead would be treacherous and challenging, but he was willing to face it head-on if it meant bringing Piko back from the grip of Hate. He hoped that Nightmare would share the crucial information they needed to confront this darkness and restore Piko to her true self.

"Me. It's me." He said.

Dream's eyes widened in shock as Nightmare revealed that he was the source of Piko's Hate. The weight of the revelation hit him like a tidal wave, leaving him speechless for a moment. He struggled to comprehend the depth of the situation, the implications of Nightmare's role in Piko's torment.

"I... I can't believe it," Dream finally managed to say, his voice filled with a mix of disbelief and sorrow. "Nightmare, how... how did it come to this? How did your relationship with Piko become consumed by Hate?"

Dream's heart ached with a deep sense of sadness and concern. He had always believed in the potential for redemption and forgiveness, but now he faced the reality that even those closest to us could succumb to darkness. He wondered if there was a way to break the cycle, to free both Piko and Nightmare from the grip of Hate.

"We have to find a way to break this cycle, Nightmare," Dream said, his voice filled with determination. "We need to confront the pain and find a path towards healing. I believe that even in the darkest of moments, there is always a glimmer of hope. Together, we can work towards redemption and finding peace for both Piko and yourself."

Dream's gaze met Nightmare's, filled with a mix of compassion and resolve. He hoped that, through their combined efforts, they could unravel the tangled web of Hate and pave the way for a brighter future.

"She... she hates me for telling her to... stay away from you."

Dream's expression softened as he absorbed Nightmare's words. The revelation that Piko's Hate towards Nightmare stemmed from his advice for her to stay away struck him with a mixture of sadness and understanding. He realized the weight of his own role in this situation, the unintended consequences of his actions.

"I... I never meant for my words to cause such pain," Dream replied, his voice filled with remorse. "I only wanted to protect Piko, to shield her from any potential harm. But I see now that my advice may have inadvertently fueled her Hate towards you."

Dream's heart ached as he considered the magnitude of Piko's anger and resentment. He wanted nothing more than to mend the fractured relationship between Piko and Nightmare, to help them find a way towards forgiveness and reconciliation.

"Nightmare, please," Dream pleaded, his voice filled with genuine concern. "We need to find a way to bridge this divide, to help Piko understand that our intentions were rooted in love and protection. I believe that with time and open communication, we can work towards healing the wounds that have driven her into the grasp of Hate."

Dream's eyes held a glimmer of hope, a flicker of determination. He knew that the path ahead would be challenging, but he was willing to face it head-on if it meant bringing Piko back to a place of peace and understanding. He hoped that Nightmare would join him in this mission, to find a way to mend the broken bonds and restore harmony.

"No, it was before this. Before I left, I told her if she didn't stay away from you, I'd kill her myself. I left, because I was afraid of her. Especially when she was around you... So I ran. It... left a permanent scar on you for a while, and Piko blamed it on me. I blamed it on her. Then gaster, he lived in this room, said that he'd erase your memory to ease the pain. I told him not to, but he did anyway. I killed him for it." He said.

Dream's eyes widened in shock as Nightmare unveiled the harrowing truth that lay buried beneath their fractured relationship. The weight of Nightmare's confession hit him like a tidal wave, and he struggled to process the gravity of the situation. The revelation of the dark deeds and the pain they had caused filled him with a profound sense of sadness and regret.

"I... I can't believe all that has transpired," Dream whispered, his voice filled with a mixture of disbelief and sorrow. "Nightmare, I never knew the extent of the pain and guilt that burdened you. The choices we made, the consequences they carried... it's heartbreaking."

Dream's heart ached as he considered the profound impact their actions had on each other and Piko. He felt a deep sense of responsibility in this tangled web of pain and regret.

"I'm so sorry, Nightmare," Dream said, his voice heavy with remorse. "I'm sorry for the pain I caused you and for the pain you carried because of me. I never wanted any of this to happen."

Dream's gaze met Nightmare's, filled with a mixture of compassion and determination. "We need to find a way to heal, Nightmare. To face the darkness within ourselves and each other, and find a path towards forgiveness and redemption. I believe that even in the face of such darkness, there is always a glimmer of hope for a better future."

Dream's words hung in the air, a plea for understanding and a desire to mend the broken bonds that had driven them apart. He hoped that, together, they could find a way to confront their past, reconcile their differences, and pave the way for a brighter future.

"Let's go get Piko."

Dream's eyes sparkled with determination as he nodded in agreement with Nightmare's suggestion. The weight of their shared history and the desire to bring Piko back from the clutches of Hate fueled his resolve.

"Yes, let's go get Piko," Dream said, his voice filled with conviction. "We have to face the darkness head-on and bring her back to the light. She deserves a chance at redemption and healing, just as we do."

Dream's heart swelled with hope as he thought about the possibility of reuniting with Piko and helping her find peace. He knew the journey ahead would be treacherous, but with their combined strength and determination, he believed they could overcome any obstacles.

"Nightmare, we must work together as a team," Dream continued, his voice steady with resolve. "We'll support each other, confront our past mistakes, and show Piko that there is love and forgiveness waiting for her. We won't let Hate define her or our relationship any longer."

Dream's eyes met Nightmare's, filled with unwavering determination and a renewed sense of purpose. He was ready to embark on this challenging journey, knowing that the power of love and understanding could overcome even the darkest of shadows.

"Let's go, Nightmare. Together, we will save Piko and bring her back to the light."

As Dream and Nightmare found Piko, a heavy silence engulfed the room. Piko's gaze fixed upon Nightmare with an intensity that sent shivers down Dream's spine. The palpable presence of Hate loomed behind her, casting a dark shadow over the room.

Dream's heart ached as he witnessed the weight of Piko's anger and resentment. He understood that their journey to bring her back from the grip of Hate would not be easy. But he was determined to face this challenge head-on, to show Piko that there was still love and forgiveness within their hearts.

"Piko," Dream spoke softly, his voice filled with compassion. "We're here. We've come to bring you back, to help you find peace."

Dream's eyes met Piko's, filled with a mixture of concern and determination. He hoped that his words would reach her, that she would see the sincerity in his eyes and feel the genuine care he held for her well-being.

"We know that you're consumed by Hate, Piko," Dream continued, his voice steady and gentle. "But we believe that there is still goodness within you. We believe that you can overcome this darkness and find the light again. Please, let us help you."

Dream extended a hand towards Piko, a gesture of compassion and support. He hoped that she would see the genuine concern in his actions and realize that they were there to guide her back towards a path of healing and redemption.

"Piko, you're not alone in this," Dream said, his voice filled with sincerity. "We will face the darkness together, and we will find a way to bring you back to the light. Please, trust us."

Dream's heart swelled with hope, praying that his words would reach Piko's tormented soul and ignite a spark of hope within her. He knew that their journey ahead would be challenging, but he believed that with love, understanding, and unwavering resolve, they could guide Piko back to a place of peace and happiness.

"Piko. I have something to say." Nightmare said.

Dream's heart skipped a beat as he observed the whispered words emanating from the depths of Hate. "He.... hurt him..... finish...kill....protect...." The sinister whispers seemed to amplify the tension in the room, adding a layer of darkness to the already challenging situation. His concern for Piko's well-being intensified, knowing that these whispers were fueling her anger and resentment.

Nightmare's voice cut through the stillness, capturing Piko's attention. Dream watched with bated breath, curious to hear what Nightmare had to say, hoping it would resonate with Piko and help break the grip of Hate.

"Piko," Nightmare's voice quivered with sincerity, "I need you to listen. I need to express my deepest regret for the pain I've caused you. I was wrong, and I let my fear drive me away from you. I left you when you needed me most, and for that, I am truly sorry."

Dream felt a mixture of admiration and sorrow for Nightmare's courage to confront his own mistakes. He knew that acknowledging one's faults was a crucial step towards healing and reconciliation.

"I want you to know, Piko," Nightmare continued, his voice filled with determination, "that I am here now, ready to face the consequences of my actions. I will do whatever it takes to make amends, to help you find your way back to the light."

As Nightmare spoke, Dream's eyes never left Piko's face, searching for any signs of a response. He hoped that the sincerity in Nightmare's words would resonate with her, that she would find it in her heart to forgive and let go of the consuming Hate.

"Piko, we both made mistakes," Dream interjected softly, his voice filled with empathy. "But we can learn from them and grow. We can choose love and forgiveness over hatred and darkness. Please, give us a chance to help you heal, to guide you back to the person we know you can be."

Dream's eyes pleaded with Piko's, hoping to convey the genuine care and concern he held for her. He knew that their journey towards redemption would not be easy, but he believed that their collective love and support could mend the broken pieces of their relationship.

Together, Dream and Nightmare faced an uphill battle against the overwhelming force of Hate. But they were determined to bring Piko back from the brink, to help her find her way back to the light and restore the bonds that had been fractured.

Dream's heart skipped a beat as he noticed the increasing intensity of the whispers emanating from Hate. His concern for Piko deepened as he witnessed the rapid escalation of the dark influence surrounding her. He knew they had to act swiftly to prevent the Hate from engulfing her completely.

"Piko, please," Dream pleaded, his voice filled with urgency. "Don't listen to the whispers of Hate. You are stronger than this darkness. You have the power to rise above it."

Dream took a step closer to Piko, his eyes filled with unwavering determination. He reached out a hand towards her, hoping to establish a connection, to remind her of the love and support they offered.

"Remember, Piko, the love and kindness that once resided within you," Dream said, his voice filled with emotion. "Allow that light to shine through. We're here for you, ready to help you fight this darkness."

As the whispers grew louder and more frantic, Dream's heart raced with a mix of fear and determination. He refused to let Hate claim Piko completely. He knew that they needed to find a way to break its hold and bring Piko back to her true self.

"Piko, listen to me," Nightmare's voice rang out, firm and resolute. "You are not defined by Hate. It does not control you. We believe in you, and we will stand by your side as you face this darkness."

Dream and Nightmare shared a determined glance, a silent understanding passing between them. They were united in their mission to save Piko, to free her from the clutches of Hate and guide her back to the light.

"Piko, trust in the power of love and forgiveness," Dream implored, his voice unwavering. "Together, we can overcome this. We won't let Hate win."

Dream's eyes held a glimmer of hope, hoping against all odds that their words would reach Piko's tormented soul and ignite a spark of her true self. They would fight for her, no matter the cost, because they believed in the resilience of her spirit and the power of redemption.

Dream's eyes widened in astonishment as Piko's growl shifted into a determined battle cry. He watched in awe as she raised her sword, poised to strike at the very embodiment of Hate itself. The air crackled with tension as Piko's blade sliced through the darkness, severing its hold on her.

A screech pierced the air, echoing through the room as Piko's sword found its mark. Dream's heart swelled with hope as he witnessed her agency and strength in breaking free from the clutches of Hate. He felt a surge of gratitude and admiration for Piko's resilience.

As Piko swung her sword once more, striking Hate in the head, Dream could see the power of her determination radiating from her. It was a testament to her spirit, her ability to rise above the darkness that had threatened to consume her.

Dream's voice filled with awe and pride as he called out to her, "Piko, you're doing it! Keep fighting! You are stronger than the Hate!"

Dream's eyes met Nightmare's, and they shared a silent understanding. They had witnessed Piko's strength, her determination to overcome the darkness that had plagued her. Together, they would continue to support her, providing the love and guidance she needed.

Encouraged by Piko's defiance, Dream mustered his own resolve. He stepped forward, joining Piko's side, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. They would fight together, united against the darkness that sought to tear them apart.

"Piko, we believe in you," Dream said, his voice filled with unwavering faith. "You have the strength to overcome this, to reclaim your true self. We're here for you, every step of the way."

With renewed hope and determination, Dream and Nightmare stood shoulder to shoulder, ready to face the battles that awaited them. They knew that the journey to healing and redemption would not be easy, but they were resolute in their commitment to guiding Piko back to the light.

The ground shook as the HATE roared in response to Piko's fierce determination. Dream's heart pounded in his chest as he watched her plunge her sword into its shoulder, delivering a powerful blow. The HATE let out an agonized cry, but Piko didn't hesitate. She raced after it, determined to vanquish the darkness once and for all.

Dream exchanged a quick glance with Nightmare, their eyes filled with a mix of worry and hope. They knew that Piko's bravery came with risks, but they also understood the importance of supporting her in this crucial moment.

"Piko, be careful!" Dream called out, his voice laced with concern. "We're right behind you. Together, we can overcome this!"

With a surge of determination, Dream and Nightmare followed in Piko's footsteps, their steps quickening as they closed in on the crater. The air crackled with energy, anticipation hanging heavy in the atmosphere.

As they reached the edge of the crater, a blinding light erupted from the depths, engulfing everything in its path. The force of the blast knocked them off their feet, but they held onto hope, knowing that Piko's strength and resolve would prevail.

Dream's heart raced as he struggled to his feet, his eyes scanning the aftermath of the explosion. Through the dissipating dust and debris, he saw Piko emerge, her sword raised triumphantly. The HATE, defeated and weakened, lay motionless on the ground.

A mixture of relief and admiration washed over Dream as he watched Piko, her breathing heavy but her spirit victorious. He knew that this battle was just the beginning, but seeing her bravery and resilience filled him with hope for the future.

"Piko, you did it!" Dream exclaimed, his voice filled with pride. "You faced the darkness head-on and emerged victorious. We are so proud of you."

Dream rushed to Piko's side, offering her a hand to help her to her feet. As they stood together, he could feel a renewed sense of unity and determination among them. They had overcome a great trial, and now they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that their bond and love would guide them through.

"We're here for you, Piko," Dream said, his voice filled with sincerity. "We'll always be by your side, supporting you on this journey towards healing and redemption."

With Piko's victory over the HATE, a new chapter began.