Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The Angel of Death.

Tommy has long since learned almost all there was to know about him and his entire group, the Syndicate. The Angel of Death was one of the top villains to ever be known in the entire empire.

With the power of decay at his fingertips, he quickly gained his infamy as one of the most powerful people to ever be discovered. Alongside his wife, the equally as infamous Goddess of Death, the pair were the ones to be feared by all.

Tommy just didn't understand how such a powerful and feared demon of a man could be captured by any hero. Yet he had. By Dream.

Dream is Tommy's older brother. It's been just him and Tommy for as long as he could remember. Dream's always taken care of Tommy and wanted what was best for them.

Dream also happened to be one of the top heroes.

Now, Tommy didn't doubt Dream's abilities. He knew how powerful Dream was. It was still a little hard to believe when Dream came home a few hours ago to gleefully tell Tommy how he managed to capture the Angel of Death and secure him to their home base.

Dream's always wanted to take down the Syndicate. They were a group of villains, so Tommy could understand where he was coming from. Still, Tommy knew the Syndicate would not take their leader's disappearance lying down.

He was nervous that Dream was going to get himself killed. If Dream died, what would become of Tommy? Dream was all he had.

Aside from all of that, though, Tommy was insanely curious about the Angel of Death. He'd never actually seen any of the Syndicate members before. They conceal their identities and guard them severely. Aside from their powers, no one really knows anything about them outside of theories and rumors.

And Dream doesn't like Tommy going out anyway. He'd never really seen any fights between any heroes and villains before in real life. Dream's always told him how the Syndicate, particularly the subgroup SBI, were cruel and killed without any regard or remorse; that it didn't matter who you were: adult or child.

Tommy shivered, glancing at the set of stairs that would take him to the basement of their home where the Angel was restrained because of his brother. Dream and Tommy lived near the hero headquarters so that Dream could easily come to and from work which is probably why he decided to bring the Angel there.

Truthfully Tommy didn't like living so close to HQ though. However, he's long since learned to not complain about anything to Dream's face.

Still, Tommy didn't get to meet many people. He's only really met Dream's teammates, George and Sapnap. It wouldn't hurt to just observe the Angel of Death from afar, would it? He could be in and out without the villain or Dream ever knowing. Dream wasn't meant to be back from HQ for a couple more hours anyway. He had time.

Tommy fidgeted, spinning the bracelet on his wrist around in circles. He swallowed before steeling himself. He crept down the basement steps slowly and looked around the dimly lit room. His eyes caught on the silhouette of a person and his breath got caught in his throat.

There was a person whose arms and ankles were shackled to each other. Tommy knew it had to be the Angel of Death because the person had giant black wings that appeared to be tied together using rope. Tommy winced in sympathy, that seemed like it hurt.

He fiddled with his bracelet again. His bracelet was not just for looks; it kept him safe. Tommy doesn't exactly remember when he first got it, he only knows it was a present from Dream to keep him safe. It was enchanted with protection so that anyone trying to hurt Tommy with powers wouldn't be able to.

Tommy looked up from his bracelet and unintentionally gasped when his eyes met the prisoner's. The Angel of Death's eyes were bright blue like the sky, almost glowing in the darkness of the basement. His hair was the same shade of golden blonde as Tommy’s, but it was straighter where Tommy's was curly.

"Hello?"

He stood there, frozen, feeling unable to move under the villain’s stare. He didn't think he'd get discovered that fast by the villain let alone at all. Dream was going to kill him when he found out.

"Are you alright?"

Tommy blinked, surprised by the concern he heard in the villain’s voice. The villain frowned at him, and his heart skipped a beat, "Where did you come from, mate? Do you...live here?"

"That's none of your business!" Tommy snapped, his heart still hammering in his chest. He shuffled back towards the stairs. He couldn't let the villain know he was Dream's brother. He could be used against Dream.

"Wait! I'm sorry, mate. I didn't mean to pry," The villain said softly, and Tommy paused, once again thrown. The villain was apologizing to him? "I was just surprised to see a child here so suddenly."

Tommy bristled immediately, "I'm not a child!"

The villain’s expression shifted to something amused, "You look no older than eight, little one."

"Well, I'm definitely older than eight," Tommy scowled angrily. Villain or not, Tommy refused to be treated like a child.

"If you insist," The villain smiled, "Can you tell me your name?"

"No way I'm telling the Angel of Death my name. I'm not stupid!" Tommy exclaimed before stilling again. Right. This was the Angel of Death, a top villain. Yet he wasn't yelling at Tommy for being so rude. Dream would have already slapped Tommy right in the mouth for his words.

Tommy shifted closer to the last step of the stairs warily. The villain frowned at him, "Okay, I won't ask anymore. Sorry, little one."

"'M not little," Tommy muttered, glancing away. The man's stare was making him feel all weird. Was it a power? It wasn't supposed to affect him though because of his bracelet.

"My bad," The Angel chuckled, "Can you at least tell me why you came down here? Did you come to see me?"

"I was just a little curious," Tommy felt defensive, "I wanted to see what a villain was like with my own eyes."

"And what do you think?" The Angel's smile went all sharp at the edges and Tommy shivered. The Angel studied him, tilting his head like a bird, "Am I scary?"

"No!" Tommy shouted before snapping his mouth shut, "I'm not afraid of you or anything!"

"Oh?" The Angel raised an eyebrow, looking doubtful, "I find that hard to believe, mate. Most people are scared of me you know."

"Well, you are a villain," Tommy replied with a little sass, "I shouldn't even be talking to you."

"Yet here you are," The Angel grinned again, something like delight entering his eyes, "I don't blame you for being curious. Anyone would be."

Tommy went quiet, studying the Angel. He was definitely a wrong'un. And weird, very weird. Why wasn't he being mean or shouting or threatening Tommy? He wasn't even trying to escape his binds. Hell, he doesn't even look scared at the fact he's been captured!

"You're really weird," Tommy blurted and his eyes widened after. He jolted when the Angel laughed. He had a strangely nice laugh. Tommy's chest felt a little odd and he spun his bracelet around his wrist nervously, "I...I gotta go."

The Angel stopped laughing and looked at him again. Tommy squirmed under his blank stare as he backed up the stairs, "Sure mate. I hope to see you again though."

Tommy whirled around and ran up the steps before the Angel caught his stunned expression. The Angel hoped to see him again? Tommy's chest felt a little lighter and he ignored it, running all the way to his room.

He jumped onto his bed and looked for Henry, his stuffed cow. He curled around Henry, his heart thumping loudly in his ears. He really done that. He went behind Dream's back and talked with a villain, the top villain at that!

The Angel of Death almost seemed....nice? But Tommy knew better. He wouldn't let himself be tricked! Just because he was nice to Tommy once doesn't mean he didn't have that other mean side to him that all adults had.

He wouldn't see the Angel again.

Tommy almost felt himself sweating from nerves when Dream returned home and called him to the living room. His heart jumped a bit at seeing Dream relaxing on the couch with a cup of tea in his hands.

Dream perked when he saw Tommy though and Tommy relaxed. Dream was still in a good mood, "Tommy! Come sit with me! I have wonderful news!"

"More wonderful than capturing the leader of the Syndicate?" Tommy remarked, testing the waters of Dream's mood. When Dream laughed Tommy allowed himself to sink into the couch by Dream's side with much less nerves than before.

"Kind of," Dream grinned, taking a sip of his tea before continuing, "The hero council agreed to let me keep him in our base!"

Tommy's eyes widened in disbelief, "Wait, seriously?! I thought for sure they'd take him to the Warden's prison!"

The Warden was the number four hero who was both powerful and extremely talented. He single-handedly built the most impenetrable prison the world's ever seen and earned his hero name with both this creation and his strong sense of justice. No one has ever escaped his prison, Pandora's Vault!

Dream just shrugged, "They agreed with my plan on using the Angel to lure the other members of the Syndicate to capture first."

Tommy gulped. It made sense. The Syndicate would not stop coming for their leader. Still, how on earth did Dream expect to capture them all?

"Now, I want to be clear on some things Tommy," Dream's tone changed and Tommy straightened automatically, his eyes widening, "You are not to interact with the Angel of Death at all, do you understand me?"

"Yes Dream," Tommy nodded obediently, his heart beginning to hammer in his chest. He couldn't know, right? Dream didn't find out....?

"There will be severe consequences if you break the rules, alright?" Dream said slowly, his tone deepening as he stared Tommy down. Tommy fought against the urge to fidget under his gaze. Dream didn't like it when he fidgeted.

"Yes," Tommy answered, proud of the way he managed not to let his voice shake, "I won't go near the Angel."

"Good. I can't let him find out about you. He'll definitely try to hurt you if he ever found out you’re my brother," Dream muttered and Tommy's heart skipped a beat, "I won't let him hurt you."

Dream's hand came down on his head and Tommy fought back a flinch before perking when Dream combed Tommy's hair back with his hand. When was the last time Dream touched Tommy's head without pulling at his hair?

"Run along to your room now, okay? I'll call you back for dinner," Dream ordered and Tommy nodded, immediately moving back to his room.

He didn't see Dream's smirk as he left.

Tommy spent the rest of the time before dinner trying not to think about the absurdity of his situation. Dream actually captured the Angel of Death. The Hero Council actually allowed Dream to keep the number one villain in their home base. That didn't.....that didn't seem to make sense to Tommy.

No one just keeps the Angel of Death in their home. All it takes is one touch and your skin would start decaying slowly. Even though his hands and ankles were bound, he could still easily kill Tommy and Dream both.

How had the Hero Council allowed this? Tommy just couldn't wrap his head around it. He wondered what Sapnap and George thought about this. Tommy hasn't seen either of them in a couple months though. Dream did all his business outside of the home base nowadays, saying he didn't want to expose Tommy to a single thing that could endanger him.

The thing that really baffled Tommy, however, was the Angel's behavior. He didn't act mean nor did he act scared. He treated Tommy with curiosity and maybe even interest. He didn't seem at all like the power-hungry, ready-to-kill, ruthless, and cruel villain everyone made him out to be.

Despite what Dream said, Tommy still had so many questions he wanted to ask. He knew Dream would never answer them. He used to ask Dream so many questions about everything outside of the home base, but that just made Dream mad and...

Tommy shuddered, curling around Henry. He could still feel phantom aches of pain from the past punishments.

He wondered if Dream was going to talk to the Angel of Death. Would the villain rat Tommy out? It's not like Tommy told him not to say anything about seeing him.

His heart started racing as he thought about the possibility but what could he do? He couldn't take the chance of getting caught sneaking to the Angel when Dream was in the base.

He'd just have to hope to Prime that the Angel of Death didn't mention seeing him.

The child had been incredibly small and cute. Truly it'd been a while since Phil had been that close to a child since his own children. Most children shy away from him, cautious and afraid and crying at the sight of him.

Yet while the child was understandably cautious and afraid, he wasn't terrified of Phil. He appeared to be mostly as curious as Phil was. Did Dream have a child or was this some other hero's child? He'd assumed Dream took him to HQ, but that didn't seem to hold true based on where he was.

A basement. Not a cell, certainly not one in Pandora's Vault. That was where he expected to end up. The fact that he wasn't was the stupidest decision he believed he ever witnessed. No one had ever managed to catch him this off guard and the one moment when Dream actually had him, he hadn't sent him off to Pandora?

Something was going on.

No matter. Phil smiled to himself. This only made it much easier for the Syndicate to find him. His amusement grew as he imagined his wife's rage. She'd probably tear up half the city on her quest to find him. And that did not include what his twins might do.

Phil straightened when he heard the tell-tale signs of footsteps on the stairs. Too heavy to be the child's. What a bummer.

His mood dampened further by the sight of Dream walking down the steps with a pep in his step. Phil kept his eyes on the man's porcelain mask as he approached with a wide grin.

"Hello Angel of Death," He greeted, smirking, "I hope the restraints haven't bothered you too much."

"If you're worried about me you could loosen them a little, mate," Phil replied, smiling dangerously. Dream merely laughed.

"I'm not worried," Dream said, tilting his head as he studied Phil, "You should be though. The Syndicate will be looking for you, unaware of the traps I've set for them."

Phil's expression darkened, "Many have tried to trap us, mate. If you think just because you managed to get lucky and capture me that they'll easily fall into any trap you've planned, you'll be sorely disappointed."

Dream didn't lose his smirk, "We'll see how long that holds true the longer I have you here."

Phil wasn't worried. His family would still be cautious even without him around. There is no way that they would fall for one of Dream's traps.

He tuned Dream out as he babbled on about one of his traps, never saying anything specific about them; never saying anything Phil cared to hear. Distantly, he wondered about the child again.

His eyes drifted to the stairs, but he tuned back in when he heard Dream say, "And when I finally have you all in my grasp, you'll never see the light of day again. I'll make sure you suffer for everything you've done."

Phil smiled, amused, "Other villains have done just as bad things as us. What have we done that's oh so terrible to you in particular?"

Dream glared at him but didn't answer. He just stood there glaring. Phil tried to think back and couldn't remember ever hearing any specific reason of hatred from the masked hero. Yet he, in particular, constantly tried to bring down the Syndicate. So did every other hero.

Dream and Techno used to be, well not friends, but close enough to it. Friendly rival ship? Phil doesn't know what changed. Techno didn't care enough to find out either.

"Do I have to have a reason other than making sure you all never live to hurt another person again?" Dream proposed, looking off to the side. Phil called bullshit. Dream wasn't so selfless, "I'm the number one hero after all."

"You see, it's funny you say you're a hero," Phil began, grinning sharply, "When heroes are the reason why my family and I started being villains in the first place."

Dream's eyes flared behind the mask, "You....!"

"If you all had just left me and my family alone, we never would have bothered any of you," Phil spoke, his voice climbing into a furious growl as pain grew in his chest, "Yet you didn't and here we are. So, if you don't mind, mate, spare me your false selfless bullshit."

"Fine. I don't need to talk to you anyway. I can't wait to take you and your family down a peg," Dream said, a smirk slowly forming on his face again, "The look on your face when I ruin your family will be just as good as the look on Technoblade's face."

Phil sneered, barely able to hold back the snarl that wanted to come out at hearing one of his sons' names come out of the hero's mouth. Dream laughed at his reaction and walked back towards the stairs.

"No food or water for you, hope that's alright 'mate'," Dream taunted and Phil felt rage growing in his chest.

Dream would pay. In every way he would pay.

Chapter Text

Tommy avoided the basement for the next couple of days. Every time he passed by the stairs he eyed it with nervousness. It felt like the Angel of Death could somehow get loose and come marching up the steps at any given moment.

At least Dream stuck around the base more than he usually did. Tommy caught him more than once sneaking down to the basement. He briefly wondered what Dream was talking to the Angel about.

Then, one day, Dream sent Tommy to his room all day, telling him he wasn't allowed to come out until Dream came for him. This only ever happened when he had visitors to their home that he didn't want Tommy to meet with.

It irritated Tommy to have to wait inside his room all day, with next to nothing to entertain himself with. Why was it so bad that other people saw Tommy? He knew that bad people existed, obviously, but Dream didn't let him meet anyone. It was.... stupid. But Dream did a lot for Tommy to keep him safe.

He felt guilty anytime he got even a little bit angry at Dream's actions. And Dream seemed to feel sorry about keeping him in the room all day because when he finally came for Tommy, he allowed Tommy to have a whole bunch of ice cream, which was nice.

The next day, Dream was called in by the Hero Council, so he had to leave. He went over the house rules with Tommy shortly before he left, "Remember, Tommy. Don't go anywhere near the Angel. All it takes is one touch and he'll kill you. He can't ever find out about your relationship with me."

"Yes Dream," Tommy nodded seriously and Dream smiled, ruffling his hair. He beamed and leaned into the rare affection.

"And of course, you know to not go outside the base or take off your bracelet," Dream warned and Tommy tensed when the hand in his hair stopped, resting there like a threat, "If I find out you broke any of the rules, I'll break one of your legs."

Tommy shivered, "Y-Yes, Dream. I won't break the rules."

"Good boy," Dream praised, smiling easily again. The hand left his head, but Tommy didn't relax yet, "I'll be back in a few hours."

Tommy didn't move from his spot until the door shut and locked behind Dream. He let out the breath he was holding, relaxing slightly. He glanced behind him at the stairs to the basement. He felt a bit nervous being in the base alone with the Angel of the Death tied up in his basement.

But still, Dream's threat hung over his head and Tommy shook his head, moving to get a snack. He sunk into the couch in the main area, sighing softly.

He turned on one of his movies on the TV and relaxed completely. He just had to ignore the fact that he had the number one villain in his home and he'd fine. Everything would be fine.

Everything was not fine.

There were weird noises coming from the basement that were really starting to freak Tommy out. What was the villain doing? Was he hurt? Was he talking to himself? He couldn't hear the noises well. Was he breaking free?

Tommy swallowed nervously; his current movie paused so that he could hear the noises better. With the basement door shut, it was hard to hear exactly what was going on.

There was nothing he could do. Dream didn't want Tommy anywhere near the Angel of Death. He was dangerous and could kill Tommy, especially if he ever found out Dream was Tommy's brother.

But what if the Angel was hurt?

Tommy knew how much Dream hated everyone in the Syndicate, particularly the SBI family. He's often heard about SBI during Dream's occasional rants. Apparently Dream and the Blood God, the number three villain, used to have a friendly rivalry that turned sour. He's not exactly sure what happened.

Dream's often talked about how much he hated the Syndicate and how much better off the world would be if they all died. More than once he's taken his anger at the Syndicate off on Tommy.

He shivered. Tommy could imagine a little bit of what Dream might be doing to the Angel of Death while he's imprisoned here. He's tried not to think about it though. Dream is scary when he's mad.

The Angel could definitely be hurt. Doesn't he need to be alive for Dream's plans? Tommy hesitated, glancing at the basement stairs again. Just a quick look would be alright, wouldn't it?

It didn't seem like Dream knew about Tommy's first visit. Whether that was because the Angel didn't tell him or just didn't get to yet he doesn't know. If the Angel died, it would be troublesome for everyone.

Tommy got up and stumbled to the stairs, wavering at the top before descending slowly. Just a peek. He just needed to be sure the Angel wasn't, like, bleeding out or anything like that.

Pushing the basement door open slowly, he looked for where he last saw the villain and jolted when he saw the man sagging towards the ground. He shot forward before stopping completely. Wait, wait, he couldn't get close. All it took was one touch, after all.

"H-Hello? Angel?"

The villain’s head shot up and then his face pinched in pain as he groaned at the action. Tommy jolted back a couple more steps, "Little one? You're back?"

Why did he sound like that? Like he was happy to see him again? Tommy's face scrunched up, "Not little....” He reminded the villain, “What's wrong with you?"

The Angel chuckled, rising off the floor a little, trying to shift into a sitting position. Tommy's heart jumped into his throat at the sight of dried blood on the Angel's bruised face. One of his eyes was swollen shut, "Just a little thirsty, mate."

Tommy hesitated. That must mean that Dream hasn't given him any water. Probably no food either. It's one of Dream's favorite punishments. The Angel's eyes locked onto him, and he stiffened, "I didn't expect to see you again, mate."

"Same," Tommy muttered, glancing at his bracelet.

"So, you do live here?" The angel questioned, his eyes narrowing at his bracelet. Tommy's heart jumped in his throat, and he quickly shoved his arm behind him.

"No! I live in HQ which is just next door to this base!" Tommy lied, unaware of the way the villain’s eyes lit up slightly, a smile playing at his lips.

"So we're next to the Hero's Headquarters?" The Angel mused and Tommy felt something cold rush over him. Stupid! That was stupid of him!

"What were those noises I heard earlier?" Tommy asked, frantically trying to change the subject. The Angel's eyes slid over to him in confusion.

"Noises....ah, you must have heard me then," The Angel chuckled. Tommy raised an eyebrow at him, "Sorry mate, it’s just instincts. I was chirping."

Tommy's eyes drifted to his ruffled black wings, "Chirping?"

"Yes. I'm an avian....do you know what that means?" The Angel asked softly, and Tommy bristled.

"Yeah! I'm not dumb!" He replied angrily and he didn't even have time to be afraid of speaking in such a way before the Angel spoke again.

"I don't think you're dumb, mate. I just wanted to be sure," He reassured, and Tommy relaxed, "I was instinctively calling out for my flock because I'm not feeling too well. I didn't even realize I was doing it, really."

Tommy stared at him, hesitating. He definitely didn't look good. It was obvious that Dream was taking advantage of the fact the villain was tied up to hurt him. Tommy's eyes drifted to the villain’s hands and was surprised to see gloves he'd never noticed before. They were black, so maybe that was why. They blended in with the darkness of the basement.

If he had gloves on, that meant he couldn't easily use his powers on Tommy, right? He remembered Dream once saying that the Angel's power of decay relied on his hands. Skin to skin contact. Was it just in his palms and fingers?

The Angel was just silently watching Tommy and there was no trace of hostility in his eyes. Tommy knew what hostile eyes looked like. He frowned, "Why didn't you tell Dream you saw me?"

The Angel's eye widened before he smiled, "Was I supposed to?"

"No!" Tommy blurted before swallowing when the Angel's eye narrowed, "Dream doesn't know I sneak over to his base from HQ."

Lies. Tommy desperately needed to keep his relationship with Dream a secret, just in case the Angel ever escaped. Honestly it seemed like a possibility.

"Okay," The Angel tilted his head, smiling at Tommy once more, "I won't let him know. If I do that for you, could you do one thing for me?"

"Depends on what it is," Tommy stiffened, narrowing his eyes at the Angel. The villain’s eye lit up with glee and he laughed.

"It's nothing much, but could you sneak me some water? Dream hasn't given me anything since capturing me," The Angel asked, and Tommy hesitated.

He knew what it was like to go days without food or water. Tommy slowly nodded his head, "Okay...but I can't leave anything behind for you or he'll know someone got into his fridge."

"Of course," The Angel nodded, grinning, "I would appreciate anything, mate. You're really kind."

"One second," Tommy muttered, his face turning red at the villain’s praise. He raced up the steps and looked around quickly. What if Dream suddenly came home?

His heart beat against his ribcage harshly as he rushed to the kitchen and pulled a water bottle from the fridge. Tommy stopped before grabbing a granola bar from one of the cabinets before racing back down the steps.

The Angel was still in the same position as before and Tommy froze when he realized his predicament. He'd have to get really close to the man to give him the stuff.

"You....you have to promise not to grab me," Tommy said with a glare and the Angel's expression softened.

"I won't grab you, mate, nor would I ever hurt you," He promised, and Tommy wanted to squirm at the words. His chest was feeling all weird and light again. Adults lied all the time though.

Tommy hesitantly walked closer to the Angel. He was surprised, but the Angel didn't move a single muscle as he got closer. Tommy stayed out of reaching range and slid the water bottle to him.

The villain reached for the bottle with both hands, since they were shackled together, and Tommy blinked as he watched the Angel drink. Suddenly, he remembered the granola bar and tossed it at the Angel's feet. The Angel raised an eyebrow at it.

"I found this while I was looking," Tommy lied, feeling oddly embarrassed. The Angel's face brightened, and he chuckled.

"Thank you, little one."

"'M not little!" Tommy snarled and the Angel laughed.

"Okay, but you won't tell me your name, so I have to keep coming up with these nicknames, mate," The Angel replied with a weird tone between sips of the water. Oh, he was teasing Tommy.

Tommy scowled, crossing his arms, "I'm not stupid. 'M not telling you my name."

"No, you're definitely smart," The Angel grinned but he didn't sound like he was making fun of Tommy at least.

"I'm the best," Tommy nodded and the Angel laughed again, making Tommy's chest feel even looser. Tommy found himself smiling before he realized it.

The Angel was just beginning to unwrap the granola bar when Tommy's stomach growled. The Angel froze and Tommy's face burned. He forgot that he hadn't had lunch yet. There wasn't anything he could do about that though. Tommy didn't know how to cook so he settled for snacks Dream left for him.

Tommy looked up when he heard the Angel's shackles moving around again. He jolted when he realized the villain was extending half of the granola to him, "Wha...."

"You're hungry as well, mate. Take it," The villain spoke with an oddly kind voice. It felt like a trick. The Angel smiled teasingly, "It's not poisoned."

"Of course it isn't!" Tommy sneered, face still red as he snatched the other half. Then he felt a bit bad. Dream would have punished him severely by now, "Thanks..."

"No problem," The Angel chuckled as he nibbled on his half of the granola. Tommy's eyes widened as he ate too, realizing that the Angel just had the opportunity to grab Tommy, yet he hadn't. All he'd done was share his food.

"Why'd you give me this?" Tommy demanded as he stopped eating. The Angel looked at him oddly.

"Because you were hungry as well?" He explained with confusion, "You've been kind to me, little one, so of course I shared."

Tommy frowned, his face scrunching up with confusion. He supposed that made sense but.... "Villains aren't supposed to be nice like that."

Amusement flitted across the Angel's face, "Who says?"

"Dr-.....e-everyone," Tommy corrected, almost paling at his slip up. The Angel made no reaction to it. Hopefully he didn't notice.

"Well, I guess if everyone says it then it must be true," The Angel remarked sarcastically, his eyes darkening, and Tommy gulped. The Angel quickly lit up, "You can't believe everything you hear, mate."

Tommy went quiet, looking away. Dream had no reason to lie to Tommy. He always looked after him. He ate the rest of his half of the granola bar and stayed silent as the Angel continued to finish his.

"What do you usually do during the day, mate?" The Angel asked so suddenly that Tommy jumped. Then the random question registered.

"Why?" Tommy squinted at him, feeling suspicious. Why did the villain want to know?

"I'm bored. Humor me by answering some questions," The Angel replied with a little smile. This guy sure liked to smile.

"I watch movies and stuff," Tommy answered vaguely, looking at the ground so he didn't have to see the Angel's reaction.

"Surely you do more than that," The Angel commented but Tommy just shrugged, glaring at the floor. He went quiet after that, "I like to garden."

Tommy whirled around to look at the Angel, shocked, "Huh?"

"Gardening is fun to me. I have both an herbal garden and a flower garden," The Angel said easily, and Tommy blinked, confused. Why was he telling him this?

"A flower garden?" Tommy asked, raising an eyebrow. That didn't seem right to the Angel's image.

"My wife loves flowers," The Angel answered and suddenly Tommy understood. The Angel grew flowers for his wife. That seemed so.... like a normal person thing to do?

Tommy once remembered George telling him that no one loved their wife quite like the Angel Death; that she was lucky she was so powerful because people often tried to use them against each other.

"Oh...." Tommy trailed off, not sure what to say to that, "Gardening seems.... fun."

"It is," The Angel smiled at him, "My son likes to do it as well, since he's into potion-making like I am."

"Your son?" Tommy perked up, unable to help himself. He's always been curious about the Syndicate.

"The Blood God," The Angel replied with something in his tone. Proud?

"Does he...." Tommy hesitated but the Angel just smiled patiently, "Does he, um, really control blood?"

"Yes, at least, when it's spilt," The Angel nodded, and Tommy shivered at the images of spilt blood in his head. The Angel laughed softly, "He doesn't really rely on his power and he really isn't all that bad, mate."

Tommy gave him an incredulous look, "I heard he once killed three people by having them choke on their own blood because they looked at the Siren wrong."

He was surprised when the Angel threw his head back and laughed loudly, "What a rumor! Well, they aren't far off from the truth.... that’s just so exaggerated!"

Tommy stayed silent. Truth or not it was a terrible thing, right?

"He would never do anything like that to someone who didn't deserve it," The Angel reassured a second later, but Tommy didn't feel very reassured. What the fuck?

"I also heard that the Siren once made a man tear out his own throat with his nails," Tommy continued, narrowing his eyes, "That’s an exaggeration too?"

The Angel looked amused, still chuckling, "That was complicated but it's true."

Tommy leaned back, stunned, "What the fuck?!"

"Would you believe me if I told you he did it to save his best friend? She was being held down and choked to death by the man he killed," The Angel explained, his smile going all sharp and dark. Tommy shivered, eyes wide as he stared at him, "Siren's always been a little theatrical but the man attacked his friend."

He's not sure if he believed that. Was what the Siren did really necessary? The Angel lifted his hands and Tommy flinched back. This made the Angel frown. Oh god, is he mad? "Sorry. I shouldn't have talked about this, mate. I didn't mean to scare you."

"I'm not scared! Just surprised," Tommy half-lied, scowling. He then realized the Angel was trying to hand him the finished bottle of water. When had he finished it? "Just....just roll it to me."

The Angel smiled and did just that, "You don't have to worry so much mate. The Syndicate, me included, would never hurt a child."

"Not a child," Tommy hissed, glaring at him, "Quit calling me that!"

"Okay, okay," The Angel nodded, still looking amused. Tommy huffed, grabbing the empty bottle once it was rolled to him, "Thank you again for the water and food. I won't forget your kindness."

"It wasn't much," Tommy trailed off lowly, feeling embarrassed all over again, "It’ll be bad if you die."

The Angel kept staring at him and Tommy fidgeted, glancing at the stairs, "How old are you mate?"

Tommy frowned at him, "Why?"

"I'm curious. You don't have to tell me if you don't want to," The villain shrugged, and Tommy tilted his head. It's not like he could do too much with that information.

"I'm almost eleven," Tommy declared proudly and the Angel blinked, looking shocked for some reason.

"But you're so small," He commented, and Tommy bristled immediately, hands curling into fists as his face turned red from anger, embarrassment, and shame.

"'M not small! I'm the biggest man ever and you're just a weird bastard!" Tommy shouted, turning and fleeing towards the stairs.

"Hope to see you again, mate!" The Angel called to him, and Tommy refused to look behind him as he ran up the steps.

Tommy just called the number one villain a bastard and he didn't even yell at Tommy for it.

What even was his life?

Phil was stunned. The child was eleven. He had him pegged at eight given his size. The child was too small and skinny. He clearly wasn't being treated right. His golden blonde curls were a bit greasy and tangled. His skin was pale like he didn't get out much.

He felt a pang in his heart. There was something about the boy. From his interactions before, Phil inferred a few things. The boy was lying to him about where he came from. This boy had to have something to do with Dream.

And he'd gotten some useful information. He was in a building next to the Hero's Headquarters. Most heroes, especially the top 10, lived close to or around the headquarters for convenience.

Phil didn't think the child was lying to him about that, though he was definitely keeping things to himself. Well, that was to be expected. The child was truly bright.

Thinking about the child reminded him of his own. Phil frowned, wishing he could at least get some word to his family. He didn't want to burden the child with trying to help him with anything else though. He refused to use the child like that.

And the child somehow reminded him of what could have been, had his youngest child not been taken from them so young.

Phil grimaced, a mournful warble echoing the room. He ground his teeth together to cut it off. The child hearing him was one thing, but he didn't want to give Dream the satisfaction of hearing him.

His ear twitched when he caught a muffled noise from upstairs and he smiled a little. The child wasn't the best liar. He had to live here, probably with Dream. That or Dream was keeping the child with him as he moved.

Phil never heard of Dream having a child before though. And he was too young to have fathered a 10-year-old. Did he kidnap the child? Or is he using him for some ability that Phil hasn't seen yet? Phil frowned to himself. It was more probable that the child was related to Dream. He had the same green eyes as him.

That's truly unfortunate.

Tommy hid all the evidence that he ever gave the Angel food and water. After, he planted himself back on the couch and nervously turned his movie back on. Dream could be back any second. He had to appear normal. He continued watching his movie and eventually relaxed into the familiar routine.

Then, almost an hour later, the front door to the base slammed open. Tommy yelped, jumping harshly where he sat on the couch. Dream stormed through and Tommy's mouth fell open at the sight of blood covering his arm.

"Dream?!" Tommy shot forward and Dream glared at him, making him freeze in place.

"That goddamned Blood God!" Dream shouted, slamming his fist straight through one of the cabinets in the kitchen. Tommy flinched, shaking where he stood. He didn't dare open his mouth, "I was this close to catching him and the others. How the fuck did he see my trap?!"

Tommy gulped as Dream turned around, muttering angrily under his breath as he stalked out of sight and into the bathroom. Tommy shifted awkwardly. Should he go to his room or-

"Tommy!" Dream called and Tommy jumped, "Come here right now!"

Tommy immediately went, his heart hammering from dread. What happened? He didn't do anything wrong, right? Tommy entered the bathroom to see Dream rummaging through the mostly empty first-aid kit they had.

His blood went cold when Dream glared up at him, muttering darkly, "Why the hell didn't you tell me we were out of bandages?"

"I-I didn't know we were-" Tommy stammered, shaking violently as Dream stood, "I would have reminded you if I knew-"

Dream moved so fast he didn't see it coming. He was suddenly on the floor, his eyes welling up with tears as his cheek ached where Dream slapped him.

"Reminded? Are you saying I don't pay attention?" Dream demanded, his voice low in warning, "It's your fault the bandages are all used up. You never behave right, Tommy! So you get punished and then I have to treat you because of it!"

Frustration filled Tommy and he bit his bottom lip to keep from saying anything. It's true that he uses up a lot of bandages, but it wasn't his fault that he didn't know they were out!

"Now I have to go get more! After I just came back from a mission!" Dream growled and kicked the sink's cabinet right by Tommy's head, making him yelp and wince.

Dream's hand came to grip Tommy's forearm and hauled him up harshly. Tommy gasped as he was manhandled and then pushed out of the room, "Go to your room and try not to fuck anything else up."

Tommy fled quickly, quickly closing his bedroom door and resisting the urge to push his desk up against it. He flew to his bed and wrapped himself up in blankets, curling around Henry.

"It’s okay," Tommy whispered in Henry's fur, hugging him tightly, "I just forgot to check the med kit. It'll be okay."

Henry had no words of comfort to give him.

Chapter Text

Dream was still angry the next day, so Tommy was quick to stay out of sight. He managed to listen in on Dream's rant as he talked on the phone to Sapnap. Apparently, the rest of Syndicate was raising hell outside, but Tommy already suspected that to happen. Whoever did not was stupid.

However, it seemed that Dream's traps, whatever they were, weren't working against the Syndicate. Something Dream said stood out to him though.

"The Syndicate doesn't singularly suspect it's me that kidnapped the Angel at least," Dream sighed, looking annoyed, "Just be on the lookout, Sapnap, I'll be out there soon. I have to go do something."

Tommy whirled around the corner as Dream hung up the phone. He didn't want to get caught eavesdropping. He heard Dream walk into the kitchen and peeked around the corner.

Dream grabbed something from the kitchen that he couldn't see from this angle and then changed directions to the basement. Tommy's heart skipped a beat. Was Dream going to hurt the Angel some more?

Tommy frowned, feeling frustrated. He shouldn't care if the Angel gets hurt. He doesn't care! Just....if the Angel gets hurt too much won't the Syndicate find a way to do the same to the heroes? Namely Dream?

There was a muffled shout of pain and Tommy gasped, jumping so harshly that his elbow smacked into the wall behind him. Tommy groaned, curling a hand around it as it throbbed.

There were more shouts, and Tommy watched the stairs nervously. What was happening? He waited, his ears straining, and his eyes widened when he heard what sounded like some weird bird-like noise.

The door to the basement shot open and Tommy scrambled back out of sight, peeking around the wall. Dream's eyes were all dark and satisfied behind the mask. Tommy's stomach dropped.

In Dream's fist there were a bunch of black feathers. Tommy inhaled sharply, horrified. Did he.... did he pluck out feathers from the villain? Why? Tommy felt a pang in his chest, like something in him was crying out in sympathy. His enchanted bracelet dimly glowed and he looked down in confusion.

"They won't stay calm when I show them this," Dream muttered and Tommy looked up, surprised. Then the words registered as Dream stuffed the plucked feathers into a leather draw-string bag.

He was going to show the Syndicate the feathers to taunt them? Then they'd know for sure that Dream has him! Dream will get himself killed! Tommy felt at war within himself.

"Tommy?"

Tommy jumped, looking up straight into Dream's darkly amused eyes, "Were you spying on me?"

"No!" Tommy denied, shaking his head as his eyes widened, "I was just coming out of my room and saw you......you looked mad."

Dream stared at him from his place in the kitchen and Tommy felt his hands start to shake, "I see. I hope you aren't lying to me Tommy. I don't like having to punish you."

"I-I know," Tommy replied, licking his lips, "Um...you have feathers?"

"Yeah. Since my traps aren't working so far, I plan to use these to rile up members of the Syndicate. The more emotional they get trying to find the Angel, the easier it'll be for them to make a mistake and get caught," Dream smirked and Tommy's swallowed.

"Oh...."

"Don't worry Tommy, they soon won't be a problem for us," Dream said, his voice softening as he put the bag down and came up to Tommy.

Tommy stiffened when Dream put his hand in Tommy's hair, pushing his head back slightly so Tommy would look up at him, "Everything I'm doing is so we can live a nice safe life, okay?"

"Yes," Tommy agreed easily. He just wasn't sure that was going to happen at this rate. Dream had always kept Tommy safe, though.

"Do you trust me, Tommy?" Dream asked lowly and Tommy nodded mutely, "Good."

Dream stepped away but Tommy didn't relax yet. Dream grabbed the leather bag again and some keys, "I gotta go. Hero duties. You remember the rules?"

"Yes, Dream," Tommy smiled weakly and Dream nodded, "I promise I won't break them."

Tommy is a stone-cold liar. A pang of guilt entered his heart, but he pushed past that as Dream closed the front door and locked it behind him like usual.

He felt kind of empty. And weird. He even felt a little bit worried after the painful noises he had heard before. The Angel was surely in pain. He's a villain though and he's killed lots of people before! So, Tommy didn't care...

The Angel's kind looks and laughs rushed through his head and Tommy paused. He didn't care.... much. He should still make sure, right? Dream was gone and he still hasn't gotten caught. The Angel was keeping his promise so far to not tell Dream that Tommy saw him.

Tommy was half-way down the stairs with another water bottle before he realized it. He blinked, shaking his head to clear it. More confusing pangs ran down his chest as he heard more of those bird-noises through the basement door. Chirping, the villain called it. It didn't sound like bird chirps though.... more like weird warbling noises?

He pushed open the doors and peeked in hesitantly, "Angel?"

A loud hiss went through the air and Tommy gasped, backing up. The hiss abruptly cut off and icy-blue eyes pinned on him. His pupils looked all small and slit for a second before they much got bigger and rounder, "Oh...hello mate."

His voice sounded wrecked, and he was all hunched over. Tommy's eyes widened at the state of his tied-up wings. There were a couple patches of missing feathers. The patches of skin looked inflamed and there was dried blood where Dream must have plucked them.

"Hi...." Tommy said dumbly and shook his head lightly to clear his head, "Um...I-I got more water...."

"Thanks mate," The Angel smiled a bit, sitting up only to wince. Tommy winced in sympathy, "You can come here. I won't hurt you."

Tommy said nothing about that and walked closer. He still stayed out of reach. He wasn't stupid, after all. He rolled the water bottle to the villain and sat on the floor, criss-cross.

"You must have heard me again?" The Angel prompted as he slowly sipped at the water. His wings were twitching every now and again behind him.

Tommy nodded, "What....what happened?"

The Angel stared at him for a moment, like he was making some decision. Tommy tried not to fidget under his stare, "He plucked my feathers. I fought back and he broke a couple of my ribs kicking me."

Tommy's eyes widened, his own hand coming up to cradle his own ribs. For some reason, this seemed to really upset the villain because his gaze darkened, "Has he done the same to you?"

"No," Tommy lied, thinking back to that one time when Tommy stepped outside without Dream's permission. He'd seen a few neighbors that lived close to HQ as well and greeted them. That was all. Dream was so pissed when he found out and pushed Tommy to the floor, kicking him hard enough in the side that he ended up breaking three ribs. Tommy had to be bed-ridden for a month while they healed.

The Angel went all quiet again, "Want to hear a few stories about the Syndicate?"

Tommy's heart skipped a beat, but he took the subject change immediately. His curiosity outweighing the fear, "Yes!"

"First, what do you know of the Syndicate?" The Angel asked with a little smile. Tommy hesitated.

"I know that your family, the SBI, are the main force of it. I heard there were a few others like the Ram, Calypso, Jester, and Ender that work with you," Tommy answered and the Angel blinked at him.

"You're well-informed," The Angel praised, and Tommy found himself smiling again, "Did Dream tell you this?"

Tommy went cold, his smile falling at once, "Uh, no. I hear a lot about villains since I live near HQ."

"I see," The Angel murmured, and Tommy relaxed. Did the Angel believe him? "And do you know all our powers?"

"Just the SBI's powers," Tommy muttered, flexing his fingers nervously. The Angel hummed, obviously wanting him to elaborate, "I know you have the power to turn things to ash or dust with your fingers and palms."

"Hence why I wear the gloves," The Angel grinned toothily and then there was a flash of concern, "I wouldn't use my powers against you though. I promise."

Tommy blinked up at him, surprised, "Why?"

"I told you. We'd never hurt children or innocents if we can help it," He explained and Tommy frowned, "We only hunt the corrupt and those who do bad things."

"Then why hunt the heroes?" Tommy asked, tilting his head. The Angel froze and, to Tommy's shock, his eyes dimmed.

"The heroes constantly hunt those they deem dangerous just because of their powers or their hybrid nature," The Angel explained, and Tommy leaned forward, interested. Tommy's never heard that before, "The people in the Syndicate have all been hunted, nearly killed, all their lives simply due to the powers they were born with."

Was that really true? Dream would never kill someone simply because of their powers though.... Sapnap and George didn't seem like that either. Tommy's brow furrowed in confusion.

"Among those reasons is the most important one," The Angel sighed, his wings somehow drooping more, "Our first base was discovered years ago, and my family was attacked. My youngest son he.... he disappeared during the attack."

Tommy leaned back in sympathetic horror, "Was he killed?"

"I don't know for sure," The Angel answered, looking at him. Tommy, for some reason, didn't feel afraid at the stare, "My family and I personally believe the heroes took him. My wife and I were born with powerful abilities and, thus, my sons inherited powerful abilities too which is why he was probably taken. That's why we fight against the heroes. That and their continued treatment of us."

"That's....." Terrible and awful. Hard to believe.

"Sorry mate, I went off track there," The Angel chuckled before wincing in pain again, curling tighter into himself, "That's not what I meant to say."

"Do you.... not know who attacked your first base and stole your kid?" Tommy questioned hesitantly, fiddling with his bracelet.

The Angel shook his head sadly, "We don't know who orchestrated that first attack. It's entirely possible my son just died during the attack. We never.... We never found any remains. He was just a tiny baby."

"Sorry," Tommy trailed off, feeling upset for some reason. The Angel just looked so.... hurt. He needed to change the subject, "Uh....what's...what's your favorite color?"

The Angel looked at him with a brow raised. Tommy's face flushed. Right. Why had he asked such a random question after that heaviness? The villain burst out laughing and Tommy relaxed again.

"It's green, a forest green," The Angel smiled, and Tommy realized he was wearing a green robe looking thing under his black overcoat, "What's yours?"

"Red," Tommy answered confidently and smiled when the Angel nodded approvingly.

"It suits you," The Angel grinned, gesturing to his red t-shirt. Tommy's cheeks warmed at the compliment.

Things went quiet before Tommy felt too curious not to ask, "Um, is it true that the Blood God and the Siren are twins?"

The Angel laughed, wincing yet again, his hands cradling his ribs, "Ah...yeah, they are."

"Do they look identical?" Tommy questioned, trying to imagine what it would be like to have someone that looked exactly like you.

"Their faces are similar," The Angel explained softly, "But the Blood God has long pink hair instead of their brown. He dyed it a few years back. He also has bigger tusks than the Siren ever since presenting."

Tommy blinked, stunned, "Tusks?"

The Angel looked just as surprised, "Yes? They are piglin-hybrids, mate."

"Oh..." Tommy trailed off, brow furrowing. Now that he thought about it, he remembered Dream saying something about that. Something about how the Blood God was a piglin so that was why his stamina and physical strength was more enhanced.

It always somehow sounded like excuses on Dream's end.

The Angel looked hesitant, "Can I ask you....it seems like you've never seen what we look like at all? But that would be impossible...."

"Uh...." Tommy gulped, "I've never seen villains close up before, obviously."

"You don't watch TV?" The Angel asked, brows furrowed. He clearly didn't believe Tommy.

"I don't have TV channels, just a DVD player," Tommy frowned, squirming with discomfort. Dream didn't like Tommy watching TV, just movies.

"Okay," The Angel nodded, his expression softening, "Any other questions?"

"Are the Blood God and the Siren really your kids?" Tommy asked before realizing how rude that sounded out loud. The Angel just chuckled lightly.

"Yes. They're mine biologically if that's what you mean. They'd be mine regardless though," The Angel shrugged, and Tommy was confused by that last statement, "My wife is a piglin-hybrid, that's where the twins get it."

"Huh?!" Tommy gasped. He never imagined the Goddess of Death as a piglin, "Does she have tusks too?!"

"Yes....well, they're more like fangs really," The Angel smiled, a weird look crossing his gaze, like he was dreaming. Tommy tilted his head, "She looks more human than piglin. So does the Siren."

"That's kind of cool," Tommy grinned, "Like, having fangs."

"I agree," The Angel nodded, and Tommy's eyes drifted to his wings.

"I think having wings is cooler though," Tommy whispered, looking at the ground. Something inside his chest hurt and he didn't know why.

The Angel whispered back, "I think so too."

His head was all confused. They were talking like they were friends, but this was a villain. The top villain; yet he'd done nothing to Tommy. He even promised he wouldn't hurt Tommy and told him personal things.

"You really are odd, you know," Tommy commented, face scrunching up in frustration. The Angel grinned again, "Why'd you tell me all this?"

"You asked," The Angel shrugged, "Besides, most of what I told you is already publicly known."

This made Tommy feel relieved, "Really?"

"Yes, so don't worry, mate," The Angel replied, "I don't want you to be worried."

"Why not?" Tommy questioned, his heart thudding a bit, "Why are you so nice to me? You don't even know me!"

"Well, even if you deny it, you're just a kid, mate," The Angel explained and laughed lightly when Tommy glared at him, "Plus, we're friends, aren't we? We're getting to know each other right now."

Tommy's heart dropped. Friends? The Angel thought they were friends? What did that mean? Did he expect things now?

The Angel noticed his growing distress and frowned, "It's alright, mate. Whatever you're worried about.... I wouldn't do anything to hurt someone who's helped me this much."

"I haven't done much," Tommy whispered, scooting back, glancing towards the stairs. He didn't notice the way the Angel's gaze hardened.

"You've done more than you know. More than most would have," He replied quietly, "Will you come see me again? I'd like it if you did..."

"Maybe..." Tommy shrugged, standing slowly and grabbing the empty bottle the Angel slid to him, "I'm not supposed to."

"Who says?" The Angel asked and Tommy's eyes widened. The Angel looked displeased suddenly, "Dream?"

"No....I-.... it’s....."

The Angel's gaze softened, "I know you have to be staying here. Probably with Dream, right?"

Tommy panicked, "No! I live next door! I don't live with Dream!"

"Little one-"

"No! You're wrong and I....I gotta go!" Tommy exclaimed, racing to the stairs and practically jumping up them. He closed the basement door and leaned against it, breathing harshly.

The Angel knew. He knew Tommy lived here with Dream. He didn't want to know what would happen if Dream found out the villain knew...

He couldn't see the Angel anymore. It was too risky.

Phil felt dimly guilty. He didn't know the child would become that afraid if he admitted he knew the child lived there. Why did he deny it that much? Was he scared that Phil would hurt him when he escaped? Or was he scared of Dream?

He'd seen the red mark dimly on the child's cheek. It'd taken everything he had not to question the child about it. The thought of someone hurting that child....

He ground his teeth together and inhaled slowly to calm his growing rage. His ribs protested the action and his wings twitched. The stinging pain in them was dying down. Phil couldn't wait to get his hands on Dream, daring to steal some of his feathers.

Revenge could wait for the moment. He had more pressing matters. If the child really lived here, probably with Dream, then he wasn't safe. He needed to find a way to convince the child to leave with him.

He could only hope the child returned to see him.

Dream came back home just as Tommy finished cleaning up the kitchen to clear his mind. The front door slammed loudly as it closed which made Tommy's heart race. Was Dream mad? Did something else happen?

He came around the corner and Tommy's fingers curled around the wipe in his hands, hoping that today wasn't one of the days where Dream found something Tommy apparently did wrong.

Dream's face was unreadable, and he glanced at Tommy on his way to the fridge, "You've been cleaning?"

"Yes sir," Tommy nodded, hoping to Prime that Dream wasn’t about to be mad at him. Surely, he couldn't get mad about him cleaning.

"Good. I'm glad to see you making yourself useful," He praised but Tommy didn't feel very happy about the way he said it. Still, he soaked up the praise of doing something good. He needed to feel anything other than fear over his slip-up with the Angel.

Tommy resisted fidgeting at the awkward silence that followed but Dream moved on to grab tea out of the fridge and moving to the couch. He felt a bit lost on what to do next. He settled for sitting next to Dream on the couch.

Dream didn't say anything at first, but then turned to regard him after he set his tea down on the coffee table, "Has anything happened with the Angel?"

His heart jumped into his throat, and he panicked. Did Dream know he’d seen him? Did he figure it out somehow? "N-Nope, not that I know of..."

The mask on Dream's face made it hard to read him, as always, and Dream's mouth twisted, "SBI wasn't around this afternoon. They'd been out looking since I took the Angel, but they weren't out today."

"And that's bad...?" Tommy trailed off, feeling confused. Wouldn't it be a good thing to not run into SBI? Especially now?

Dream sighed, "It's not great. I think they might be planning something big if they aren't out looking."

"Oh..." Tommy bit his lip, his nerves lighting up again, "Nothing's gonna happen, right?"

"Do you doubt my abilities, Tommy?" Dream asked darkly and Tommy's eyes went wide at his mistake, "You think I can't take on SBI?"

"N-No that's not what I meant!" Tommy stammered, fear slamming into him as he curled up on the couch, "I'm just worried-"

"You have no reason to be worried!" Dream near-shouted, his voice climbing aggressively, "What do you have to be worried about?! I literally do everything for you, and you doubt me like this!"

"I don't! I'm sorry, Dream, I didn't mean it," Tommy replied, almost whining as he curled into himself more.

A hand yanked at his hair, pulling his head up harshly from where he'd leaned so far down into himself. Tommy yelped in pain and tears pricked his eyes as he was forced to meet the eyes of Dream’s mask, "Why do you have to always be so ungrateful Tommy? All you have to do is sit here and be protected. If anything, you use me!"

"I'm sorry!" Tommy sobbed, crying out further when Dream's hand left his hair and abruptly pushed him away. Tommy half-fell on the floor where he'd been on the edge of the couch.

"I swear, if you weren't so useful to me you'd be out on the streets where you belong," Dream growled out and Tommy choked back another sob, knowing Dream hated it when he cried.

It was hard, though, with the words he just heard.

Muffled noises made both Tommy and Dream pause. Tommy jumped when he heard loudly chain-rattling that could only come from one person. The noises got louder. Was the Angel shouting downstairs?

"Oh fantastic, now look what you've done," Dream sighed in aggravation and Tommy flinched when Dream stepped over him to the basement stairs, "Go to your room and don't you dare come out until the morning."

Tommy's heart sunk. That meant no dinner, meaning hunger pains while he tried to sleep. Still, this didn't go as badly as it could have so Tommy scrambled up and ran off to his room without another word.

He didn't notice Dream contemplatively staring between him and the basement.

Phil heard Dream yelling. It was muffled and he couldn't make out everything that he was saying. He felt a bit satisfied that Dream was so riled up. It was no doubt an effect of his family.

All that satisfaction went down the metaphorical drain when he heard sobbing. It was muffled but Phil knew in his heart that it was the child. He lurched forward, momentarily losing himself.

He chirped loudly, calling for his fledging to come to him. The chains jerked him back and he yelped at the sharp vicious pain that echoed all over, particularly in his ribs. The pain helped bring him back to his senses.

Did he really just lose himself to his instincts over a child he's known for a few days? A child that his instincts immediately categorized as his fledging? He really would never hear the end of it from the twins if they'd seen that.

The door to the basement eventually opened and Phil hid his aggression by putting on a neutral face. Dream eyed him wordlessly when he came into view, "Not feeling well are we Angel?"

"A bit cooped up you could say," Phil grinned slowly, showing sharp teeth, "You could loosen the chains a bit if you're worried."

Dream scoffed but Phil felt oddly like he was being studied, "What's got you so riled up then? Just making dumb bird noises for the heck of it?"

Phil almost bristled. Almost. Instead, he just laughed, "I was just a bit amused to hear you getting so loud up there. My family causing you trouble, mate?"

"No more than usual," Dream shrugged and Phil internally frowned. What's up with him? "Well, if you aren't dying then I need to go. Got things to plan out."

"Nothing you do is going to work, mate," Phil sighed, feeling tired with the whole situation, "You're pretty much screwed, actually."

Dream's hands curled into fists, "You all give yourselves too much credit. You're not Gods. You're not indestructible!"

Phil regarded Dream darkly and just smiled, "And neither are you."

"We'll see about that," Dream grinned back, something knowing in his eyes, "I still have one final trick up my sleeve. One you guys won't be very happy about. I’d love to see your faces when you hear about it."

Phil scowled, "Like I said, you're screwed either way mate. Nothing you do or say will change that."

"We'll see," Dream shrugged one shoulder before turning around, "By the way, keep making noises like that and I'll gag you. That'd be entertaining."

Glaring at him, Phil almost bared his teeth at him. Dream didn't turn around though and walked up the stairs and out of the basement.

Phil still wasn't worried, but he couldn't help feeling like he was missing something important about what Dream was saying.

Chapter Text

Two days went by before Tommy grew bored of his usual movies and toys. There were only so many times he could rewatch the Emperor's New Groove. He wished he still had his favorite movie, UP, but Dream had damaged it during a punishment a year ago.

He wanted to see the Angel again, but he was scared. The Angel was super smart, and it was kind of obvious that he knew Tommy lived there with Dream. Sure, the villain was kind to Tommy so far, but when would the other shoe drop? It always dropped.

Tommy took extra care to stay out of Dream's way since his slip-up a couple of days ago. It didn't help that Dream was still in such a bad mood. Apparently, the other Syndicate members were still mysteriously not showing themselves. He was nervous about what that meant.

It only took midday on the third day for Tommy to cave in and decide to sneak down to the basement to visit the Angel again. He felt vaguely guilty. He'd only seen Dream take a couple things down for the villain to eat and drink. The Angel was sure to be hungry and thirsty.

Nothing prepared him for the Angel's reaction on seeing him again. As soon as Tommy crept down the last step, the Angel's head whirled around, his icy blue eyes brightening, "You came back!"

Something odd warmed Tommy's chest. The villain looked genuinely happy to see him again. Tommy felt his cheeks flush, and he looked at the ground, "Y-Yeah...."

"Are you alright?" He asked urgently and Tommy blinked at the concern, feeling slightly incredulous at the question.

The Angel was the one with injuries; he was the one dirty and unkempt and restrained, yet he was worried about Tommy? What the fuck was wrong with this guy?

"I'm okay," Tommy answered, wrinkling his nose. The Angel softened and slowly relaxed, leaning back against the wall carefully, "How about you?"

"I've been better honestly," The Angel joked, and Tommy frowned, "I missed you, mate. It's so boring without you to talk to."

Tommy leaned back, stunned, "What?"

"Well, there's nothing for me to do but stare in space after all," The Angel grinned, slightly teasing.

That's true. Tommy glanced around, shivering at the darkness surrounding them. It was one of the worst punishments; to be locked alone in the dark. Honestly the Angel made it seem so easy to handle.

He came back to himself when he caught the Angel staring at him blankly, like he was studying him, "W-What?!"

"Are you sure you're alright, mate?" The villain asked with honest to God worry in his tone.

"I'm fine!" Tommy scowled, trying to change the subject by showing the water bottle and granola bar in his hands, "I got this for you."

"Thank you," The Angel smiled warmly, making Tommy feel that weird feeling again. He rolled the objects over to the Angel, watching as the villain winced trying to pick them up.

From experience Tommy knew it'd be up to another week, maybe more before the Angel's ribs fully healed. Well, unless the Angel knows a healer. Tommy stayed silent, fiddling with his bracelet as the Angel ate.

Afterwards, the Angel regarded him again, "I wanted to apologize to you."

"Huh?" Tommy blurted, blinking in surprise.

"I scared you a couple of days ago, mentioning that you might have lived here," The Angel smiled warily, "I wasn't trying to scare you."

Tommy felt his heart begin to race again at the subject, "I don't live here."

"I've heard you here, mate," The Angel said slowly, watching him. Tommy's heart sank, there was no convincing him otherwise, "You don't have to be so scared."

"How could I not be scared if a supervillain knows where I live?" Tommy barked, baring his teeth at him. He was just acting dumb now. Tommy wouldn't be fooled by him!

The Angel smiled, the smiley fuck, "When you put it that way.... Still, I'd never hurt you. We're friends."

"You keep saying that, but we aren't!" Tommy growled, shuffling back a little bit, "I can't be your friend!"

"Because of Dream?" The Angel questioned, tilting his head. Tommy felt his breathing pick up and the Angel must have noticed, "Are you scared of Dream?"

Yes. "No! He's-"

Tommy snapped his mouth shut before he finished that sentence. He'd already fucked up so much. He couldn't reveal he was related to Dream.

And yet the Angel studied him as if he knew what he almost said, "He's your family?"

Tommy paled rapidly, his breath getting stuck in his throat. The Angel hurried to continue speaking, "I'd never hurt you regardless of that, mate. You can't help who you're related to."

A sense of dread and panic choked Tommy. He stood quickly and the Angel looked regretful suddenly, "Please wait, mate! I promise you won't be harmed."

"I don't believe you," Tommy whispered before fleeing up the stairs and out of the basement. He felt all hot and paced around the living room, his hands shaking.

The Angel knew. He fucking knew. Tommy didn't even have to say anything. Was it really that fucking obvious?! His head felt all funny, and he realized he was panting, unable to take full breaths. It felt like he was fucking dying.

He ran to his room and immediately snatched Henry. He curled up on his bed and tried to breathe through the panic. It took what felt like hours before Tommy felt calm enough to try sitting up, Henry clutched in his hands to the point where his knuckles were white.

"Sorry Henry," He sighed, loosening his grip and trying to smooth the wrinkles in his fur, "Dream is so going to kill me."

A loud noise made him jolt and look at his open bedroom door. That didn’t sound like any door in the house so it couldn't have been Dream. Was it the Angel?

Hesitantly, he crept out of the door and looked around rapidly. There was no one else around. He paused once he stepped back into the living room. It sounded like the Angel was going crazy or something down there, but it was hard to tell what was going on. It was almost like the Angel was making those weird bird noises again.

His bracelet glowed dimly. Before he realized it, he was on the stairs to the basement, and he blinked dumbly. Tommy could just make out some of the noises heard. It sounded like that chirping but frantic, "Please, little one, come back! Are you okay? I didn't mean to make you panic! Mate?!"

Tommy bit his lip. Why was the villain so panicked now? He was acting like it wasn't Tommy's own fault for being weak and panicking. He jumped when he heard chain rattling and jerking. The fuck was he doing now?

His heart jumped when he went the rest of the way down the steps and peered into the room. The Angel was fucking pulling on his restraints like he was going to rip them right out of the wall or break both arms trying. Oh shit.

"What the fuck are you doing?!" Tommy exclaimed and the Angel jumped this time, his gaze immediately locking onto Tommy. The black part of his eyes was all small and slitted again. Then he deflated like a balloon and the black part got much bigger.

"Oh, mate! Thank the Gods!" The Angel sighed in relief, "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to make you panic so badly. I was worried-"

"Why?" Tommy demanded, clenching Henry again, "You're so fucking weird."

The Angel laughed but it looked strained. He made an odd warbling sound that made Tommy's chest twinge and his bracelet glow again, "I told you. I care about you, mate. You're my friend and you've helped me out so much."

The villain was super clingy or something to not take a hint. It seemed Tommy was his friend no matter what Tommy thought. He didn't understand why the other cared so much, "Fine, whatever. It's your fault for being nosy."

The Angel huffed, smiling a little, "Yes, I'm sorry. I'm just worried about you living here."

"I don't live here," Tommy lied stubbornly; despite knowing it wouldn't work on the villain. The Angel merely looked amused, "Why'd you be worried about that anyway?"

"Dream's not a very nice guy. I know I wouldn't want to live with him," The Angel shrugged, and Tommy bristled.

"Dream's not a bad guy!" Tommy argued and the Angel lost his smile, something serious forming on his face.

"Then how did you get that bruise on your hairline?" He asked in a low tone, making Tommy stand straighter in alarm. One hand went up to his hairline. It had felt sore, but he didn't realize there was a bruise; it was probably from when Dream pulled on his hair. He liked to do that a lot.

"Hit a table," Tommy replied calmly and the Angel's eyes narrowed, "What?!"

"A little hard to believe is all," The Angel continued, "You show up with lots of little bruises and a few days ago you had a red mark on your cheek."

Tommy blanched, unsure what to say. The Angel noticed all that in this dimness? What the hell?

"I'm clumsy," He spluttered, desperate to change the direction of conversation, "Haven't your kids ever fell a lot and got bruises?"

"Can't say they have," The Angel shrugged, and his eyes were still all weird, "And they certainly didn't get any from me or my wife."

Tommy glared venomously, "It's not Dream's fault. Stop it."

"Okay," The villain murmured quietly though something disappointing went through his eyes, "We can talk about something else."

Relief flooded through Tommy, and he tilted his head, "Like what?"

"Like....what type of foods do you like?" The Angel smiled eagerly, and Tommy hummed, thinking it over.

"I like spaghetti," Tommy muttered and narrowed his eyes in thought, "Oh! Curry! I love curry."

The Angel wheezed for some reason and Tommy scowled at him, his face wrinkling up in a cute way, "I wasn't expecting you to say curry."

"I got to try it once. It was really good," Tommy sighed wistfully. He would give anything to eat some more of it. Dream had eaten it once and Tommy managed to get some of his leftovers.

"I see," The Angel grinned, "I'll have to get you some curry then."

Tommy froze, glancing up at him in confusion. If the Angel got away, why would he risk coming around again just to get him some curry? Even if they were 'friends'? "Doesn't sound smart for a villain to come around here again if they escaped."

The Angel laughed but something odd went through his eyes, "True, mate. It doesn't have to be here though."

That just confused Tommy more. What did he mean? The expression on the Angel's face scared Tommy a little bit now. He didn't know what it meant. It was like it was something knowing; something Tommy didn't know but the Angel did.

"I gotta go..." Tommy whispered, suddenly uncomfortable. The Angel frowned.

"Okay, mate. See you soon," He replied, and Tommy didn't respond, turning to climb up the stairs. He shivered slightly at feeling the Angel's eyes still on him the entire time.

Something’s changed.

He’d decided to take a shower and had gotten dressed when he heard the front door slam closed. His heart jumped up into his throat. Dream was back home and if he slammed the door then he was still in a bad mood. Tommy hesitantly crept out of the bathroom and peered into the living room.

Dream was staring right at him; his mouth set into a deep frown. Tommy turned cold and froze. At least he wasn’t snarling, right? Why was he staring at Tommy like that?

“W-Welcome back Dream,” Tommy greeted quietly, wincing at the stutter. Dream hated that.

Tommy glanced up at him when he failed to say anything. Dream was still staring at Tommy; it was as if he didn’t hear him speak. Tommy resisted the urge to fidget. He thought back, but he couldn’t think of anything he did to displease Dream.

“Has anything happened with the Angel?” Dream suddenly asked and Tommy nearly jumped at how his voice pierced the quiet. Tommy looked up and shook his head, his heart already picking up at the lie. Dream hummed and frowned further.

“A-Are you okay?” Tommy questioned softly, withholding another wince when he stuttered again. Dream didn’t seem to notice, and he could have deflated in relief.

“I managed to track down a member of the Syndicate, but they escaped my grasp,” Dream huffed, and Tommy stiffened, not daring to move an inch, “They’re up to something and I was that close to figuring it out.”

Tommy didn’t say anything, afraid that it would set Dream off. Dream was grumbling to himself then and Tommy just watched him silently, trying not to flinch when Dream turned to regard him with something weird in his expression, “It’s possible they’re planning an attack on our hideout.”

He couldn’t help but inhale sharply but thank the Gods Dream didn’t seem to get mad at that. He only frowned thoughtfully, “Our defenses would be enough to hold them off long enough for us to escape. If things come to the worst, I always have you.”

Tommy blinked stupidly, confused by that. What? Dream made it sound like Tommy would be able to help somehow, but he knows that Tommy is powerless. Dream straightened suddenly and turned to him, “They’re known not to hurt kids, don’t worry Tommy. I won’t let them hurt you regardless, okay?”

“Okay,” Tommy replied immediately, though he felt extremely uncertain and confused still. Dream wasn’t making much sense.

“I’m gonna order us some food, you run along,” Dream said slowly, an obvious dismissal that Tommy didn’t hesitate to take. He ran back into his room and closed the door. His thoughts were racing.

Dream always promised to protect and take care of Tommy. Dream was his big brother and even though he was mean a lot of the time, he never failed to keep his promises.

So why did it just sound like he meant to throw Tommy under the bus should the Syndicate come to attack their base?

Tommy frowned, clenching his fists and shaking his head as he paced. Dream wouldn’t do that. He wouldn’t. He took care of Tommy. The Angel’s words immediately flew through his mind, and he closed his eyes.

“Stop….” Tommy whispered out loud as if it’ll make the Angel’s words go away, “Dream cares about me. He cares. He wouldn’t abandon me.”

Eventually Tommy felt calm enough to flop down onto his bed and grab Henry. He cuddled him close and curled into a ball. His eyes burned and he closed them to avoid tears.

He fell asleep quickly and because of that, he missed the way Dream entered the room to get him for dinner. He also missed the way Dream regarded Tommy coldly, checking him over before leaving without waking him up for dinner.

Chapter Text

Tommy woke up feeling like he was already on the line of a panic attack. It was odd, but not completely uncommon. He was definitely still worked up about the night before. As he sat up in bed, groggy and somewhat disoriented, he realized that he had fallen asleep before dinner.

Dream must not have woken him up to eat dinner. Tommy swallowed heavily. Hopefully he wasn’t mad that he slept through it. He’d been acting weird the night before and the things he said-

He shivered and stepped out of bed to get dressed for the day with a sense of foreboding. Something just felt off and Tommy constantly had to think of random things to keep the panic from building. He felt stupid. He was overreacting.

After getting dressed in one of his favorite baseball t-shirts and cargo pants, Tommy padded through the hallway, glancing around for any sign of Dream. He noticed his brother’s bedroom door was closed but the light was on. He felt a bit relieved that Dream was home and not out hunting the Syndicate for once.

Tommy went into the kitchen and grabbed a bowl to start heating up some oatmeal. He fiddled with his bracelet as he stared at the microwave. He glanced over his shoulder at the staircase in the living room that led to the basement. It felt like forever since he talked with the Angel.

The villain wasn’t making any noises. What if he was dead from lack of food or water somehow? Tommy felt a sharp pang of panic and took a long deep breath to repel it. He fiddled with his bracelet harshly, trying to ignore the onslaught of consistent fear. He was so wrapped up in messing with his bracelet that he didn’t notice the microwave going off or Dream entering the room.

“Tommy!” Dream exclaimed, his tone unimpressed and Tommy jumped at the suddenness of his appearance, “Don’t mess with your bracelet! How many times do I have to tell you that?”

Tommy wilted and pushed down the flare of annoyance. Dream didn’t actually have to tell him that often, “Sorry Dream.”

“That bracelet keeps you safe from villains, especially members of the Syndicate,” Dream growled, and Tommy flinched, wondering why Dream started to sound weird. Almost panicky? Like Tommy had been, “If you break that--”

Tommy hesitantly glanced up at him when he didn’t finish his sentence. Dream looked off, like he was almost afraid in a way. Tommy was wary about asking about it though, “I’m sorry, I won’t do it anymore.”

Dream’s mouth twisted, “You better not. Now, I have to run out to Headquarters for some business, but I’ll be back soon. You remember the rules?”

Tommy wondered why the fear started to make a comeback at the thought of Dream leaving when usually he’s grateful for time alone. He nodded anyway, trying not to curl into himself, “Yes.”

“Good. I’ll be back soon,” Dream said but he just stood there for a scary moment, just staring at him. Tommy felt uncomfortable, his stomach clenching. Then Dream just moved to leave like nothing happened.

What in the actual fuck was going on?

Tommy waited until he was gone before he deflated like a balloon losing air. He grabbed his shirt and waited out the strange nausea that came so suddenly. He ended up throwing out his oatmeal. It’d gotten almost cold anyway and Tommy wasn’t so sure he could stomach it.

The thought of food had him thinking of the Angel again. He hadn’t made any noises at all and that was part of Tommy’s fear. He thought about how even though the Angel had to be hungrier than Tommy, he still shared his food with him that one time just because Tommy’s stomach growled.

The villain even said they were friends. Guilt swarmed him and he hesitated, shuffling his feet. Dream would be back soon, he said so, but he didn’t have any interest in feeding the Angel. Dream even worried that the Syndicate were planning an attack on their home.

If the Syndicate came for the Angel and saw him malnourished there’s no telling what they’d do to Tommy and Dream. Tommy shuddered.

Most of all, Tommy knew what it felt like to go hungry. And the Angel was…. he was really weird, but he was nice. And Tommy felt like he didn’t deserve to go hungry. With his mind made up, Tommy rummaged for another water bottle and decided to make the Angel a sandwich this time. Dream wouldn’t notice a couple of pieces of bread missing.

He gathered the items and took a deep breath before going to the stairs and climbing down into the basement. For some reason he felt very nervous about seeing the Angel again, remembering the way the villain looked at him last time. All weird and knowing and shit.

Tommy warily stepped into view, pausing when he saw the Angel laying sideways on the floor. His heart skipped a beat, and he shuffled closer before freezing. He couldn’t get too close. He opened his mouth to call out to the villain and yelped when the Angel’s icy blue eyes opened, pupils just a slit.

Then his eyes went back to normal, and he smiled, “Oh, good morning, mate. I’m so happy to see you again.”

Tommy swallowed heavily, “Morning…. I brought you some things.”

“I see it. You really are a kind soul,” The Angel smiled warmly, his eyes practically sparkling. Tommy blushed, frowning and squirming at the embarrassment he felt.

He got just close enough to toss the water and then hesitated to go even closer to hand him the sandwich. Thankfully, true to his word, the Angel didn’t try to grab him. Tommy leaned back and watched him as he immediately wolfed down the sandwich.

“Thank you for the food and water,” The Angel smiled, and Tommy nodded wordlessly, “Are you alright, little one?”

Tommy resisted the urge to scowl and nodded again. For whatever reason, that made the Angel frown at him, and Tommy felt the panic surfacing again, “Are you sure? I won’t be mad if you’re not feeling well.”

“I’m okay,” Tommy muttered, shuffling back and wrapping his arms around his knees.

“Dream hasn’t done anything to you?” The Angel pressed and Tommy looked up at him sharply, but the Angel just looked genuinely concerned.

“No, and he wouldn’t!” Tommy growled, annoyed at the villain’s constant concern. At least that finally pushed back the panic, just a bit.

“I don’t really believe you, mate,” The Angel hummed, his eyes still concerned, “You still have a little bruise on your face from the last time. And on your hairline. I even remember hearing him yelling at you that one time.”

Tommy eyes went wide. He heard that? How much did he hear? He dug his fingers into his pants to keep from messing with his bracelet again. The villain was watching him sadly when Tommy looked back at him, “Brothers fight sometimes.”

“Not like that,” The Angel sighed, “Not leaving bruises like that, Tommy. You know it’s not normal to be treated like this right?”

He sounded like he was pleading. It made Tommy feel all weird. Tommy snapped, “You don’t know what you’re talking about! Dream takes care of me!”

“No, he doesn’t,” The Angel shook his head, but he didn’t look angry, just upset, “Not in the way you deserve. You deserve to be treated kindly and with love.”

“Dream does love me,” Tommy snarled, his eyes burning a bit. He abruptly stood and the Angel made a funny noise, like a squawk.

“Family would never treat you that way, Tommy,” The Angel said fervently, “They’d never yell at you that loudly or give you bruises or withhold food from you!”

“Shut up!” Tommy yelled, his hands balling into fists as he stomped back towards the stairs. The villain called after him, “You don’t know anything!”

“I know I’d never treat you like that,” The Angel murmured, and Tommy glared at him before walking up the steps and into the living room.

What did he know?! He’s just a stupid villain! He was stupid enough to get caught and now Tommy was breaking all kinds of rules just to make sure he didn’t die! Tommy did that so that hopefully Dream could be spared if the Syndicate ever did manage to capture his brother.

Dream took care of him! He protected him! All he asked in return was complete obedience! Family looked out for each other! Just because Dream wasn’t like the Angel didn’t mean he didn’t love Tommy.

Tommy huffed and marched back down the stairs to tell the villain just that. The Angel perked up when he saw Tommy again, “Dream loves me! He does! Just because he’s not like you doesn’t mean he doesn’t love me!

The Angel watched him silently, “Okay, little one.”

For some reason Tommy didn’t feel any better, he glared at the Angel, “Dream is the best! He keeps me safe and protects me!”

“Okay,” The Angel repeated, and Tommy felt so frustrated that his eyes were burning again, “Can I ask you something?”

“What?” Tommy asked thickly, still glaring. The Angel looked carefully blank.

“Does Dream ever let you leave your home?” The Angel asked with such a serious voice that Tommy faltered, his glare falling. He hesitated and the Angel’s face completely darkened after that, “He doesn’t? You didn’t even know what we looked like. Have you ever even been outside?”

“I-I have!” Tommy stammered, unsure what to do now that the Angel actually looked angry, furious even. Tommy backed up a few steps, eyes wide, “Just not…. not a lot! Dream doesn’t want anything to happen to me!”

It was crazy how fast that anger turned to alarm, “Mate, that’s not healthy. He shouldn’t do that, you know.”

“If people found out about me, they’d use me against him,” Tommy argued, narrowing his eyes at him. His heart was hammering, “Just like you!”

“I would never use a child,” The Angel denied with such disgust that Tommy once again faltered. He hated the part of him that felt relieved at that, “What he’s doing to you is wrong.”

“He’s not doing anything,” Tommy huffed nervously.

It went quiet immediately, it was awkward. Tommy shuffled and caught himself fiddling with his bracelet again. He quickly withdrew his hands and glanced at the villain, who was just staring at him. Tommy couldn’t help but notice how it wasn’t as uncomfortable as when Dream would do it. His mouth twisted.

“My family will come for me soon,” The Angel declared like he was commenting on the color of his shirt and Tommy stopped breathing for a moment. The Angel’s face went all soft and he smiled, “I’d like you to come with us when they do.”

Tommy stayed completely frozen, unable to comprehend what he had just heard. He didn’t know how long he stood there, frozen, but he eventually blinked a few times. The Angel was watching him with something concerned. Tommy finally managed a whisper, “What…?”

The Angel leaned forward, opening his mouth, but they both jumped when the basement door slammed open. Tommy went cold; his heart dropped into his toes. He forgot about Dream, who was supposed to be home soon. Fuck. Oh fuck.

Dream marched into sight, an ugly snarl on his face as his gaze pinned on Tommy, “I fucking knew it!”

“D-Dream-“

Tommy was on the ground before he could even brace himself. His face hurt a bit more than normal whenever Dream slapped him. His head was ringing, and he realized Dream was still yelling. Someone else was yelling too. The Angel?

Tommy squinted, shakily pushing himself up and wincing when pain stabbed through his head. Eventually Dream’s words became clearer, “--been telling him?!”

“Not a damn thing, mate,” The Angel snarled, “He’s loyal even when he shouldn’t be to complete trash like you!”

Dream laughed and Tommy jolted, it was his harsh laugh. The laugh meant something terrible was about to happen. His breath hitched, “I cannot fucking believe--”

Tommy flinched when Dream whirled around on him, “I told you what would happen if you broke the rules, Tommy.”

“Please Dream, I’m sorry,” Tommy gasped out, trying to crawl backwards, “I-I only talked to the Angel a bit and made sure he didn’t die! Hostages aren’t supposed to die!”

“Cute,” Dream huffed but he was still glaring at Tommy, he leaned down, “You think a few days without food or water would be enough to kill him? He’s the Angel of Death, Tommy!”

“I-I’m sorry,” Tommy sobbed, his heart still hammering away in his chest. He knew there was no escape from punishment. He didn’t know what to do.

“Actions have consequences, Tommy,” Dream ground out, eyes dark, “You knew that. And you broke the rules anyways. I hate when you make me do this.”

“Dream if you so much as touch--“

Dream was already moving while the Angel was speaking. With as much force as he could, Dream tugged Tommy upright and he gasped. Then, just as he was barely standing, Dream reared his foot back and stomped on Tommy’s leg.

Tommy barely registered the snap. There was burning agony in his leg, racing all the way up his side. There was more ringing in his ears, and he realized he was screaming. His throat hurt and his mouth tasted like metal.

Someone else was screaming. The Angel? Tommy couldn’t focus on that; the ringing was louder, and his vision was turning black.

Tommy felt something messing with his bracelet, like they were checking it. He cracked open his eyes and tensed when he saw a blurry green figure. Dream. Dream, who just punished him for breaking the rules. Dream, who broke his leg.

Tommy was crying before he even realized it. Dream was shushing him and holding a potion bottle to his lips, “I told you Tommy, I hate when you make me do that. You shouldn’t have broken the rules though. And now you’ve made the Angel act up.”

“S-S-So-Sorry,” Tommy stammered out and didn’t fight against the potion Dream gave him. The effects were immediate, and Tommy sighed in relief as the pain disappeared. He smiled, “T-Thanks Dream.”

Dream snorted like something was funny, “Of course. I always take care of you, Tommy.”

Tommy nodded and scrunched up when a ringing filled the air. Dream cursed and moved away. Tommy whined but quieted when Dream glared at him, answering his phone. Oh, so that’s what the ringing was.

Dream started talking really fast on the phone, but Tommy couldn’t focus. He winced as his fingertips explored his right cheek. It didn’t hurt because of the potion but Tommy just now realized his right eye was swollen shut. That’s odd.

“What do you mean, George?!” Dream was yelling and Tommy whimpered, turning his face into his pillow, “Fuck! I knew they were up to something! Call everyone and get them here now! Fuck, this had to happen now?!”

Dream hung up and kicked Tommy’s bed, making him cry out, “Shut up! I’d have been prepared if it wasn’t for you, you brat!”

Tommy didn’t understand what was going on. Why was Dream suddenly so mad? Dream paced around the room and Tommy curled up, trying to remain out of sight. That’s when he noticed the weird thing on his leg. A cast?

“Tommy.”

Tommy flinched and looked over, meeting Dream’s furious stare, “Listen carefully, okay? The Syndicate is coming. Their full forces.”

Tommy’s breath hitched and his eyes widened. Wait…what? “I’ve called for backup but just in case I’m going to lock you in here, okay? No matter what don’t try to leave the room, not that you can.”

“O-Okay?” Tommy murmured, still confused and scared, “What…what about you? Don’t get hurt.”

Dream paused and sent him a strange look, almost like he was baffled, “I won’t. Listen Tommy, never take off your bracelet. If, for some reason, I’m not able to save you they might take you away from me.”

Tommy whined, shaking his head, “No, don’t wanna go!”

“I know. Are you listening? Don’t ever let them take off that bracelet. It’ll protect you from them,” Dream pressed, looking serious. Tommy nodded, pulling his wrist close to his body, “I’ll try to make sure they won’t get you, but I can’t control everything in the heat of battle. Do you trust me?”

“Yes,” Tommy nodded. Dream always took care of him. He smiled when Dream ran his hand through his hair in reward.

“Okay, I have to go now Tommy,” Dream sighed, “Fucking figures the Syndicate would ruin everything. I might have to give up the Angel and try another time.”

Tommy tuned out his ramblings, watching him leave his room. He heard the lock click on the outside and snuggled into the blankets. The potion kept him calm and pain-free.

He knew the Angel was just dumb, Dream cared about him.

He was peacefully asleep when he was jolted awake by a boom that shook his entire house so badly that his bed fell over on its side. Tommy cried out in pain when his leg hit the floor. He felt all weird and sleepy still.

What was happening? Tommy blinked a few times, his face scrunching up when he heard really loud noises. Screaming? Shouting? There were terrible booming noises and a loud scratching-like noise.  Why was it so loud?

Tommy whimpered, the potion was wearing off a little bit, so some of the pain was coming back. He tried to shuffle forward but his limbs felt like jello. Where was Dream? He batted at his covers, pulling them around him in a pathetic shelter. He couldn’t find Henry.

It took so long, but the loud noises were dying out. There was still shouting and loud talking. Tommy swallowed heavily, remembering what Dream said. Was it Dream? Or did the Syndicate find him? What about the Angel?

Tommy jolted when his doorknob rattled. There was talking at his door and Tommy barely had time to look at it before it broke down. Tommy stared with wide eyes at the figure. It was the Angel, he was free. His wings looked even bigger now that he was free, they spread and were all ruffled.

The Angel’s gaze pinned on him immediately and he let out a chirp. Tommy’s chest got that weird feeling like it always did whenever the Angel made bird noises, “Oh my God, there you are mate!”

Tommy flinched when the Angel launched towards him. The Angel slowed and then crouched down next to him. Tommy whimpered, trying to move away when the Angel reached for him. He distantly remembered why it was bad for the Angel to touch him. His power was bad.

“It’s okay, mate, let me see you,” The Angel cooed and pulled Tommy’s blanket away from him. Tommy cried out at the loss of his shelter. The Angel’s fingers ghosted over his leg, “Fucker at least set it I see.”

Then his fingers went to his face and Tommy gasped, lying on the floor to avoid them. The Angel made a sad sound, “Don’t worry mate, I would never hurt you. You have a pretty bad black eye there from where Dream punched you.”

Tommy’s face scrunched up in confusion. When did that happen? “Nu uh….”

The Angel paused looking him in his one good eye before he cursed, “Fuck did he give you a drug? Even while you’re this malnourished?”

Tommy shuffled back but didn’t get anywhere. He huffed, annoyed at his limbs not cooperating with him. He needed to get away!

There were voices calling the Angel’s name and Tommy panicked. The Syndicate? They’ve come for Tommy! The Angel noticed him panicking and smiled, “It’s okay, mate. It’s just my sons. We’re going to take care of you now, okay?”

“No! Dream said you’d take me ‘way,” Tommy slurred, glaring and trying to get his legs to move, “I don’t wanna go with you!”

The Angel looked at him sadly, “I’m sorry, Tommy. I’m not letting you stay here with your abuser. We’ll take care of you and make sure you’re okay again.”

“No!” Tommy growled, batting at the Angel’s hands when they went to pick him up.

“It’s for the best, mate,” The Angel murmured, stopping each one of Tommy’s attempts to escape once he wrapped his arms around him, “If I leave you here, Dream will escalate one of these days and actually kill you.”

“He wouldn’t,” Tommy denied though a part of him was hesitant. The Angel warbled at him, and his chest went all tight, “He wouldn’t.”

“You’ll thank me for this one day,” The Angel said slowly as he stood, manhandling Tommy until he was held bridal style in his arms.

Tommy squirmed but his hold wouldn’t let up. His eyes burned. Where was Dream? Why was this happening?! His breathing picked up and the Angel was talking to him, but Tommy couldn’t hear him.

Eventually his vision started to blacken, and his head went limp on the Angel’s shoulder. He could just barely make out two tall figures appear in his doorway.