Deluding Lotus-Eater in Morpheus' Realm

Rise and shine, little master! Time to get up, chop-chop! Can't you see the sun is high in the sky? Quite bright it is, too. Nearly blinding me in its brilliance. It's not normal for something to be as bright as this is. Perhaps we are going to be having another incident soon? At least we'll hopefully be able to ignore this one, instead of wandering straight into it. You should be ashamed of yourself, master.

Yes, you heard me right. Wandering off into danger like that. I'm not blaming you about the satori, but with the summer youkai, and the kappa? As much as I needed, erm, fixing up, it's not like I you had to go out of the way. And you should have stayed sharp. It's not like I need my master go dying on me. Again. I won't always be able to take you to help like that.

So instead, let's take it nice and easy. We don't have anywhere to go, do we? We do? That is rather unfortunate. I'd rather not risk you becoming hurt once again, master. That would be rather shameful, would it not? Please, can you just continue to sit here and rest? That would make me oh so happy, and make my heart go all aflutter. I just want to stay here and take care of you. Isn't that what a maid is supposed to do?

But you made a promise? Poor little master. Well, I suppose you're just going to have to break that promise then, aren't you? You were injured just recently, were you not? I was there, watching the whole time. And I do not want to take the risk, even if there's not so much as a scar or a prick of flesh that is hanging off of your body.

Oh, how did I know that there was nothing wrong? Well, I did have to undress you. I made sure to take a nice, long look, too. After all, there is nothing that I wouldn't do to ensure my master's well being, correct?

Oh, I see how it is. You don't trust your own maid? Perhaps I need to fetch you a cup of tea? A nice warm cup of tea, with the right amount of sugar and milk? Or perhaps a dash of honey would be preferable?

You want to get dressed? I suppose that would be necessary, as long as you had any spare clothing? No? Then I suppose I will have to ask Miss Keine if she has any spares. Should inquire as if you want a dress, a skirt, or pants? Fashion does change so quickly in the outside world, as I'm pretty sure by now everything is allowed, is it not?

Ok, what? What do you meant by that? Something isn't right here? Perish the thought, little master. You're just recovering, so everything is actually alright. You've simply got your brain all messed up. Even though your injury was to your heart. Perhaps the amount of time you spent while dead was damaging to that wee little brain of yours? Then that is a good enough reason for me to keep you here, where it is nice and safe. And I can take care of you forever… ❤

Well, I suppose I can answer a question. It isn't like I've no reason to. So, where is my mop? Well, I simply put it away. One does not need to carry around a mop at all times, now do they? Especially when they're not actually cleaning up…

Oh, why do you believe that? What makes you think that I'm not your servant Ruukoto? What would ever give you that idea? I am not speaking correctly? And I'm not treasuring my mop? Hrm… I suppose those would be pretty major details. But the hair is the wrong shade? Please, it's green hair. It's not that common, even around here! Just because I have the luminance up just a smidgen too high…

Fine, you got me; I'm not your Ruukoto. But as for what I am, let's just say that I'm a visitor. I wanted to come and see just who I have here visiting my realm.

Oho, but I suppose it isn't just my realm. After all, I do have to share control with my sister. But isn't the one who actually takes care of it, and actually maintaining it. Instead, it's just little old me here taking care of you.

Which is why I feel… entitled, to this little treat. A toy is so fun to have… And isn't it better when you are able to interact with your dreams, rather than merely witnessing them? I could give you that blessing, you know… Would you like to have it?

Lucid dreaming is such a good deal, after al. Able to be conscious all of the time, even when your body is resting. You are able to plan out your future while at rest, or look over what happened in the day. The best can even use their memory to help review what they've learned, to become smarter more quickly.

That is, if most ever even thought of doing that.

You see… I know what people do in their dreams. After all, if one dwells within them, what else could I see? They don't dream of being better people. They dream of other things. Of how they can gain power. Of how they can have that treasure that they so desire. Whether it is treasure of value, or treasure of the flesh, they do dream it. And those dreams are often oh so lurid.

That's what gets me antsy, little master. I see all these people dreaming about these things. And I never get to join in; instead, I get to watch. It's not that I couldn't, it's just that I'm not allowed. Big sister never likes it when I go out of control. She says that even though we are devils, we must look after the ones who do dream. They give us power, after all. And we don't want to scare them off from dreaming, now do we?

Of course, I see it a little more differently. If you want someone to pay, with faith or with money, you must offer a product or a service, must you not? That is what I do here… as I offer a service, practically free of charge. I make them want to come back. Whether they suffer from delusions of power, or delusions of adequacy… I give them what they want. And they enjoy it so.

But still, it is not the same as actually participating in the actions. What fun is it when you just watch what is going on? It's much more fun to participate, after all. It's like going to watch a show. You can live vicariously, seeing the troupe of performers on stage, dancing and singing their hearts out. But isn't it much more satisfying if you are the one putting on the show?

So, how about we start by putting on our little show. In this world, there's only the two of us, and no one can disturb us… And it's been oh so long since I've had a little toy to play with… So won't you play with me?

A no? I have to see, you're disappointing me here. What is it that you're so worried about? This is a dream after all. It has no effect on reality… Is the poor little baby worried that its innocence will be ruined by the nasty devil? Hrmph. You wound me. After all, I can hardly take what remains in reality. And your dreams are just that. Your imagination. In here you can run wild.

So why don't we just do that?

Still a no? Why is that? You've better conviction than I would have expected. Are my temptations not strong enough? Or do I not hold any form of command over you… Interesting. Very interesting. After all, it is not very often when one does not simply take an offer laid out before them, at very little cost.

You do not trust a devil to keep their word? Ahaha! You do think like a human, little master. But truly, this devil of a maid is asking very little of you. Even if I wish to have you stay here forever, I cannot force it upon you. But you could always come back here. It is someplace secure, someplace where no man can intrude.

Yes, there are a few youkai among these hills that could intrude; but then again, when is there not a youkai with some sort of power in this land? It seems that there is never such an incidence. But those that powerful are known, and can be avoided quite easily.

So, are my words not honeyed enough to sway you? You truly do not desire a haven in which you can take residence and rest? Where there would be someone willing to hear your ails, and perhaps even relieve you of them?

Especially when they can guide your dreams just as you want?

Oh, yes, I am quite able to do that. After all, if one were charged with maintaining this realm, it would be quite dumb if they did not have any power whatsoever over it. Am I not correct? Sort of like where we're at now. One moment, you are lying in a bed in a small schoolmarm's room, and now… Do you feel the wind whipping through your hair? That salty stench wafting over your lips? The sun, once bright and blinding, now lower and lighting up the land in a beautiful glow?

Such a majestic sight, is it not? Crystal blue water, and white sand beneath its toes… You don't have to try and hide it, for I can see the look on your face trying to break through. You're impressed in spite of yourself. I've created perfection for you to enjoy, without even a snap of my fingers.

And if this is not to your taste, how about this? A summit high in the air, with the autumn leaves painting the crisp and cool morning? A lazy river, slowly lapping at the shore in the dead of summer? Or perhaps you prefer a warm house with a blazing fire to protect you from the harshness of a snowstorm outside… You can't tell me that you don't want any of that, because I can see it on your face clear as day. You know that you do.

And if the simple joys of life aren't enough, I can assist you in other ways. If I may sit down by your side? Not that I need permission, but it is always nice to have it. Especially from one's master. Ehehe… Are you now realizing what I'm getting at? Perhaps a maid doesn't do it for you? Or are you simply tired of it, considering your companionship has consisted solely of that for quite some time. Perhaps you prefer a witch, instead, one that is hidden in the depths of the forest. Perhaps give her all the love that she craves, to make her grow even stronger. And perhaps she will give some of it back for you, da ze~.

Or how about this instead? A lonely yuki-onna, in the mountains. It's chilly up here, is it not? But She could be there to warm you up, so to speak. After all, the yuki-onna does enjoy leading men astray… but she's not had one in so long, as she's been helping her little icy friend. Perhaps I can lead you astray, as you might like her to?

Or shall we go back to that mountain scene once again? I've seen that goddess' dreams… wishing to be loved, and free of the shackles that are slowly closing in on both her and her sister. You could show her that love. Give her it, when she needs it. Laying in that cool autumn air, your only bed being one knit of dead leaves… I can be that divine spirit you may desire.

Oh, wipe that blush off of your face. You know that you desire this, in some form. Maybe your feelings are just that of innocence… But even innocence has the slightest spark that is derived from the darker, stronger emotions.

Shall I fan that flame for you?

Saddening. Truly saddening. Your wits are still about you? Most would not be able to resist such a temptation at all. Blinded as the very world shifts about them, with a companion that can become your ideal… Why do you think I maintain the image of a maid? There are so many men and women who love the idea of a maid. Whether it is power, or wealth, or something else it symbolizes, they do desire one of their own. And whenever I get the chance to play, most don't resist.

Of course, there are other roles that I can take…

Still, I see none of the lust. How odd. Very odd, surely there would be some indication. It is as if your base feelings are… muted. You feel embarrassment, as you know that you should have that feeling. But to have so little feeling, and only consciously know…

That would be the case. That damned satori.

Yes, she is still around. Very interesting, indeed… She's suppressing those feelings in you? Does she suspect, or does she simply not trust… This is odd though. I'd never have thought her to be competition for anyone. Her dreams have always been delightfully dark, always full of running. She doesn't know why she runs anymore, only that she must run. And as amusing as it is, you don't know how hard it is to trap people in their fears when they've no knowledge of how to fear in the first place.

But I'll definitely have to be keeping an eye on you now… If she is getting herself personally involved, there might be some interest to be had in the near future. Even if you are a pitiful little human, master, you've attracted some strong allies. I wonder if it'd be worth staying on your good side… Not that you'd trust me even if I took up a cross and began to pray?

Not that I could, you know. Devil and all that comes with it, and I wouldn't be so dumb as to make a deal which could cause me to take up such a vow. So I won't even bother with bringing up the idea of perhaps pursuing a contract.

Just remember, I'll be keeping an eye on you. And while I won't be able to do anything while you're awake, you should be wary of letting your mind wander when you sleep. Also be wary of those who sleep around you. Perhaps I should go pay a visit to the kappa after this? I'm sure there is one whose acquaintance you recently had who would love to meet you once again?

So she didn't suppress horror, now did she? Yes, indeed, I could always give her a vision of where you might happen to be. And perhaps even stoke the flames that burn in her heart, and make them rise further. And with those flames, she can fire an engine that will not rest, until she brings you back and finishes the job.

Ohh… I have a better idea? Remember your little vampire friend? I'm sure that her big sister would love to realize that said sister had an unauthorized visitor. She too would love to meet you, I'd imagine. Perhaps even string you up, and skip rope with your entrails? Or change you into a servitor, and make you dance to her tunes. All in front of little innocent Flandre. It would break her oh so badly, seeing such a thing done to her friend.

Those dreams would be especially potent, with the darkness that would consume the girl. It is a very tempting idea.

No no, you're not to be making any deals now! I'll just be fading on out. Do remember, I offered you so much. I offered you peace, and a maid to take care of your every need, and never to be worried again. I'll keep the offer open for a little bit; but for now, I will be retiring myself. I sense another dream should be starting up soon, and I can't wait for it.

After all, I can't simply slam a tape in and record it, now can I?

So farewell for now, little master. Not that this is the only or final farewell. Indeed, we'll be seeing each other quite a few times in the coming weeks. And months. And years. In fact, it will go on for quite a while. Unless you have something that can keep me out? Such a pity that you don't.

Take care now. Just as much as your Ruukoto would hate you to be injured, Mugetsu would be too, wouldn't I? After all, then I wouldn't be able to visit you every night in your dreams. And that would be terrible. So, until you find a way to kick me out, I'll be here in this realm. Simply waiting~ ❤

A/N Here we are once more with another story, and about in 24 hours if I got my math right. It's close enough though, so I'll call it that. This chapter was kinda off and on the whole time, as I both did and didn't want to write it. Then again, not every chapter can be one of a favorite character, so I'll have to do with this. Another candidate for possible reworking though.

Anyways, I wanted to get across one idea here. Firstly, the Mugetsu as I see it is a succubus. Why her, and not Koakuma? Well, it just makes more sense to me. If there were a devil that was able to control your dreams, and give you whatever you wanted, a succubus would fit the bill quite nicely. And do note that it's not exactly faith that she wants, but it's an apt analogy. Similar to how Marisa collects love to power her magic, really. As long as people want to dream, she has power. And as long as I randomly emphasize words with italics, this will take about a third of a second longer for each one.

Digressing. So, that's the way I see Mugetsu. Basically, she is the closest thing to a stereotype because that is what a lot of people see in others. A stereotype. Whether consciously or subkoishiously, people do make such presumptions. And she is able to take advantage of it.

I apologize if you were hoping for a little more in depth character for Mugetsu. Perhaps her sister might be a bit different. (Although, I do find it amusing how the character known for her time-out attack is the straight-laced one) Oh, and for anyone wondering why there's no CNN this time? We're not Wriggle, so no radio in our mind! Anywho, read and review as always, and until next time!

So, the little human is gone. I still hate that it happened as it did, with the runt being able to resist me. I guess it cannot be helped though. If that satori was really playing with his mind, I wouldn't have been able to do anything anyways.

Still, this is rather interesting news. I'll have to be reporting to big sister about this. She might even take personal interest. And I'm sure that she wants to know. But at least in that case I'll be able to take my time. I hate having to even talk with her. The bitch.

No matter, I'll be on my way with that later. Now, who else am I to visit and feed jujube tonight…

"Ruukoto? Are you there?"

"Yes I am, Master. You are awake later than I had expected. It is currently nightfall once more. Are you operating back at full capacity now?"

"Yeah, more or less. Still hurts like a damned train hit me. A model train by now, but the sentiment's still the same."

"Good. At least you're awake again."

"Yeah, awake… It's good to be awake again."

"Is there something wrong? Your voice is off somewhat. Tonal patterns gathered over the past few days indicate… stress? Perhaps fear?"

"Nothing… nothing. Just a bad dream."

"If you are sure, Master. Is there anything that you require, that would not have me leaving your bedside?"

"Would you go if I asked?"

"…Proper protocol demands that I would Master. But I would rather not, as you have already been injured rather grievously. I'd rather not risk it again."

"Well, I don't need you to go anywhere. Could I just… hold your hand?"

"Of course, Master. May I ask why you have need of one of my secondary armaments? I've still not the time to clean them after my last fight."

"You may. I just… need to feel that you're here. It's just a feeling, but I want to make sure you're here."

"Understood. I have no compunctions against it. As long as you are happy Master. You should get back to sleep and get some more rest, however. That way, you can be fully energized for when we leave tomorrow."

"Rest, maybe. But no sleep. I've done enough of that recently. …Also, remind me later to thank Koishi?"

"The satori? Why is that Master? She is the reason you are in your current state, and the reason as to why my primary and secondary armaments are still covered in her life fluid."

"I'll tell you later. Just remind me."

"As you wish, this unit complies."

"Shouldn't you be getting some rest yourself? You've expended more energy than I have."

"But my reactor also creates energy at several orders of magnitude greater than yours, Master. Also, I have several nonessential systems on standby. So, I am resting, as you put it. I have a need to neither sleep nor dream, even if I can simulate it."

"Ruukoto? Be very glad you can't dream."

"Why is-"

"Just trust me, friend. Be very, very glad."