Judgment of the Endless (MarvelxDC)

The figure tilted his head, studying me. "A friend, perhaps. Or an enemy. It depends on your perspective."

"Cryptic," I remarked. "What do you want?"

...

His presence exuded an ethereal quality, his pale skin contrasting sharply with his dark attire. His eyes held a distant, otherworldly gaze that seemed to see beyond the physical realm.

"Have you forgotten me already," the figure said, his voice calm and resonant.

"Dream," Darius spoke out, a smile spreading across his face. "It's been a long time."

Dream of the Endless stepped forward, his expression serene. "Indeed it has" he replied, his voice a soothing melody amidst the city's noise. 

They moved to a quieter side street, away from prying eyes and ears. Darius leaned against a wall, crossing his arms. "What brings you here, Dream? It's not often you venture into the waking world."

Dream's eyes shimmered with ancient wisdom. "I sensed your presence, old friend. The dreams of people have been filled with your name, your deeds. It drew my attention."

Darius chuckled. "So, you've been spying on me through people's dreams?"

Dream shook his head slightly. "Not spying, merely observing. Your return has stirred many minds, both awake and asleep. It was inevitable that I would learn of it."

A flashback washed over Dream as he remembered the moment he first sensed Darius's presence. In the realm of dreams, where thoughts and fantasies intertwine, he had seen countless images of Darius—his long white hair, his mischievous grin, his carefree yet powerful demeanour.

Night after night, the dreams of people worldwide converged on Darius's figure, painting a picture of his return to the earthly realm.

[Flashback]

In the realm of dreams, where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, Dream of the Endless was ever vigilant. He sat on his throne, a quiet, contemplative figure with eyes that saw beyond the waking world.

The Dreaming was his domain, a place where every sleeping mind connected, where he could perceive the thoughts and emotions of all who dreamed.

One night, as Dream wandered through the shifting landscapes of the Dreaming, he began to notice a pattern. A series of dreams from different parts of the world were converging on a single theme—a mysterious figure with long white hair and flowing robes.

This figure appeared in the dreams of ordinary people, performing acts of great power and kindness. It intrigued Dream, for he knew this was no mere figment of imagination.

In the dream of a young girl in New York, the figure had healed a wounded bird with a touch. In the dream of an elderly man in Kansas, the same figure had conjured a rainstorm to soothe the parched earth. Each dream carried a sense of awe and wonder, but also a feeling of familiarity. 

Dream summoned Lucienne, his loyal librarian, who appeared promptly with her ever-present book in hand. "Lucienne," Dream began, "there is a presence in the Dreaming that I need to investigate. A figure who seems to be appearing in many dreams across the world."

Lucienne adjusted her glasses and nodded. "I have noticed an increase in unusual dreams recently. Do you suspect this figure to be someone we know?"

Dream's gaze grew distant as he considered the possibilities. "Yes. I believe it is someone from our past. Someone who has returned."

...

[Flashback end]

Dream had been intrigued, to say the least. He recalled the times he had spent as Darius's apprentice, learning about the nature of existence, the balance of power, and the importance of dreams in shaping reality.

Those lessons had stayed with him, guiding him as he tended to the dreamscape.

"You've certainly made an impression," Dream continued, bringing the conversation back to the present. "Your presence has not gone unnoticed."

Darius shrugged nonchalantly. "I like to make an entrance. But tell me, Dream, what have you been up to all these years?"

Dream's gaze grew distant, as if he were peering into the fabric of time itself. "I have been maintaining the balance between the waking world and the realm of dreams. Ensuring that dreams flow freely, guiding souls, and sometimes intervening when nightmares threaten to consume."

Darius nodded, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "Sounds like you've been busy. It's good to see you again, my old apprentice."

Dream allowed himself a rare smile. "And you, Darius. But be wary. Your presence here has stirred the cosmos. There are forces at play that may prove challenging, even for you."

Darius's grin widened. "Let them come. I'm always up for a challenge."

Dream sighed, his expression softening. "Just remember, not all battles are won with power alone."

Darius gave a playful salute. "Not many can live up to my level of power you know. But for now, how about we catch up? It's been too long since we've shared a drink."

==

=

As Darius and Dream wandered through the quieter parts of the city, they found a small, unassuming café and settled at an outside table. The night was cool, and the murmur of the city provided a comforting background noise. Darius had always enjoyed the quieter moments in his adventures, and this night was no exception.

"So," Darius began, leaning back in his chair, "tell me about your siblings. How are they?"

Dream's eyes glimmered with an array of emotions. "They are as they have always been. Destiny remains bound to his book, charting the paths of existence. Destruction is still absent, choosing to walk his own path away from his duties. Desire and Despair continue their eternal dance of temptation and sorrow."

Darius nodded thoughtfully. "And Death? How is she?"

A fond smile crossed Dream's lips. "Death is... well, she is herself. Ever the compassionate guide, always there to meet souls at their journey's end. She has a way of making even the most difficult transitions seem gentle."

Darius chuckled. "I remember her. Always had a way of putting things into perspective. I imagine she's kept herself busy."

Dream nodded. "Indeed. She never rests, always moving from soul to soul. Yet, she finds time to check on us, her siblings, to ensure we remember our place in the grand design."

"Typical of her," Darius said with a grin. "I've always admired her dedication."

The conversation drifted to lighter topics, reminiscing about their past adventures and the lessons they had shared. Darius recounted his many escapades on Earth since his arrival, each tale filled with humour and mischief. Dream, in turn, shared stories from the dream realm, where the boundaries of reality blur, and anything is possible.

"Do you remember that time we got caught in the middle of that celestial banquet?" Darius asked, laughing. "The look on Destiny's face when I turned his wine into nectar!"

Dream's lips curved into a rare smile. "Yes, I remember. I thought he might actually laugh for a moment there."

Darius shook his head, still chuckling. "Good times. It's been too long since I had company who understands the bigger picture."

Dream's expression turned thoughtful. "Speaking of the bigger picture, Darius, what do you plan to do now? Your presence here is already causing ripples."

Darius leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. "Honestly, I'm just exploring, seeing where the world takes me. I've missed the unpredictability of life. But I'll be careful. I know my presence can be... disruptive."

Dream nodded. "As long as you remember that. There are many who watch and many who would seek to use your power for their own ends."

"I'm not worried," Darius said, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "I've dealt with worse."

They continued talking late into the night, exchanging stories and wisdom. The bond between them, forged in the distant past, felt as strong as ever. Darius valued Dream's perspective, finding comfort in their shared history and mutual respect.

As the night wore on, they stood to leave the café. "It's good to see you again, Dream," Darius said sincerely.

"And you, Darius," Dream replied. "Remember, if you ever need counsel, you know where to find me."

Darius nodded, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "I'll keep that in mind. Until next time, old friend."

With that, Dream faded into the shadows, leaving Darius to his thoughts. He looked down at Zuri, who was now fully visible and looking up at him with curious eyes.

"Well, Zuri," Darius said, scratching the pup behind the ears, "seems like we've got plenty of adventures ahead of us."

...

[Elsewhere]

As the Endless gathered in the Hall of Endless, Dream observed his siblings, each embodying an aspect of the universe itself. The news of Darius's return hung in the air, heavy with anticipation.

Destiny, ever the stoic, was the first to react. He turned the pages of his great book, his eyes scanning the words that dictated the very fabric of reality. "Darius's return was foretold," he stated, his voice calm and unwavering. "His presence will alter the course of events in ways both subtle and profound."

Death, who had always shared a special bond with Darius, smiled softly. "Darius," she whispered, her voice filled with warmth and nostalgia. "I've missed him. Our time together was... meaningful." Her eyes sparkled with memories of moments they had shared, almost romantic yet never quite crossing that line. "I hope he finds what he's looking for," she added, her tone wistful but hopeful.

Desire's eyes glinted with intrigue. "Darius always was fascinating," they purred, their lips curving into a sly smile. "Such power, such potential for chaos and change. I wonder what he desires now, after all this time." Desire's thoughts wandered to the many ways they could play with Darius's emotions, the games they could initiate. (A/N Yes, Desire is a 'they')

Despair, cloaked in gloom, sighed deeply. "His return brings uncertainty," she said, her voice tinged with sorrow. "Power like his can lead to great suffering." Her thoughts lingered on the potential for heartache and loss that Darius's presence could bring.

Delirium's reaction was, as always, unpredictable. She giggled and twirled, her form shifting constantly. "Darius is back! Darius is back!" she chanted, her eyes wide with excitement. "I remember the fun we had. The colours, the dreams, the chaos!" Her delight was infectious, though her siblings remained more reserved.

[Flashback]

In the recesses of her mind, Death recalled the times she and Darius had spent together. Their bond had been deep, almost romantic, but neither had ever committed to it. There were long walks through ancient forests, quiet conversations under starlit skies, and shared laughter that echoed through eternity. Their connection was profound, rooted in mutual understanding and respect.

"Do you ever wonder what it would be like, to be together?" Darius had asked once, his eyes searching hers.

Death had smiled, a soft, enigmatic smile. "We are together, in our own way," she had replied. "Some things are too precious to risk on something as fleeting as a romance."

They had left it at that, both knowing that their bond transcended the need for labels or commitments.

[Flashback end]

As Dream relayed the news of Darius's return, Death's thoughts drifted back to those times. "I should see him," she mused aloud. "It's been too long."

Dream nodded. "He may need you more than ever," he said. "His return will draw attention, and not all of it will be welcome."

Desire leaned in, their eyes gleaming. "Perhaps I'll pay him a visit too," they said. "It will be interesting to see how he's changed."

Despair merely sighed again, while Delirium continued to giggle and twirl. "Yes, yes! We should all visit! It will be like a family reunion!" she exclaimed.

Destiny closed his book with a soft thud. "Whatever happens, we must be prepared. Darius's return is a significant event. We must ensure that the balance is maintained."

With that, the Endless began to disperse, each lost in their own thoughts about Darius and what his return might mean for the universe. The bonds they shared with him, whether of friendship, curiosity, or something deeper, would guide their actions in the days to come.

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