Chapter Five

The next day, AJ paid close attention to those around him, watching for any strange behavior to see if they were possessed by a sleep entity. He had trouble sleeping, but that was nothing new. He was so paranoid that he mostly kept to himself, talking only to Justin. This time, Justin didn’t go away. In fact, whenever AJ was alone, Justin would check in.

"You know, we never really talked about your brother's dream."

"What did you think about the fight?" AJ asked.

"Not my proudest moment, but what could we do? We’re not fighters," Justin replied.

"Yeah, but it was cool when you bit him and kicked his ass," AJ said.

"He was weak and didn’t realize his strength wasn’t needed. You could have taken him. You did the smart thing by letting him come to you," Justin said.

AJ thought for a moment and then asked, "You knew Mike's dream wasn’t right. Why didn’t you say something to me?"

"Because we weren’t ready," Justin responded.

"What do you mean?" AJ asked.

"You have yet to control your own domain. Just like in real life, you let others control you," Justin said.

"What? That’s not true. I control my own life," AJ argued.

"Oh? When was the last time you stood up for yourself?"

AJ was quiet. He couldn’t think of the last time.

"When you stood up to your dad at the table or at school—did you notice all the changes? All the good things happening to you? You’re a strong person. You’re not a follower. You’re a leader. You need to take a stand for your life. Let Mike have his own dream. Be who you want to be. And if, just like in Mike's dream, the dissociation of yourself will consume you and make you unhappy."

AJ thought about Mike’s dream and the fight he’d just had. "What do you think was the meaning of my dream when we first met?" he asked.

"I think your dream is that you don't have one. You have the potential to be anything. I think your dream is to see what else is out there. In that way, we are both trapped."

AJ paused. "Trapped? You think I'm trapped?"

"Yes. You are shackled by your own mind. You think it is your world that causes you harm, but it’s in your dreams. Where we live."

"Where exactly are you from? What do you want?" AJ grew suspicious of Justin.

"I don’t have a world. I guess you can say my world is the subconscious—the dreams. It is the only time I am a part of anything. And I want the same thing: to see the possibilities, the things that cannot be seen. I’m not a good or bad entity. I'm neutral. But I don’t want you to live my life."

"What’s so important to you? What makes you feel trapped?" AJ needed answers.

"You have an ability no one else has: to enter the subconscious, to go where no one else has, to be something other than human. I think that’s why I'm drawn to you. We were the same in that dream on the beach. We both want the same thing. If you stay the way you are, you’ll never find it."

"Find what?" AJ asked.

"The meaning of all this. Life on Earth. As brief and small the human life is compared to the universe, I’d trade it all to be able to live a life on Earth, the way you get a chance to do."

“Can I really find meaning in my life?” AJ asked.

"Take control. Control your life. Don’t let others control it. Progress will take time." Justin responded.

"How can I control my life?" AJ was still in disbelief.

"If you help me take down these three other sleep entities, I promise your life will be forever better," Justin said.

"Okay. So, we need to find the other three?” AJ asked.

"Actually, no. Not find. It’s obvious who the other three are, and you should have figured it out by now.” Justin revealed. "Your father, your mother, and Zoe. And not only that, but I’m pretty sure they’re aware of me now—or at least sense that something’s off."

AJ was still in denial. "I get my father. And maybe Mom, but Zoe?"

"Yes. Why do you think she keeps reappearing? Your subconscious was trying to tell you something," said Justin.

"No, not her. And my mom? Neither of them seemed that different."

"Well, it’s time for you to see beyond the surface."

"What do you mean?" asked AJ.

"Well, first, you’ve got to talk to them. Communication is key."

"And how do I do that? Ask, 'Hey, are you an evil sleep entity?'" AJ said sarcastically.

"Just start a conversation with them and ask questions. See how they respond. You’ll know."

"Great. What if they attack me?"

"Well, it depends on their power and how far along their transformation is. But they won’t attack—not yet. They don’t know for sure that I’m helping you," Justin said.

"Okay. So, what’s our next move?"

"That’s your decision. How are you going to go about it?"

"I can’t talk to all three of them at once. My dad works during the day, but he’ll be home tomorrow day and night."

"Okay, so that leaves your mom and Zoe. Which do you want to try first?" asked Justin.

"Okay. My mom is home now. Let’s try her. But where will you be?" AJ decided on the fastest route.

"I can’t intervene, or they’ll know. But don’t worry, I’ll be watching."

AJ went upstairs to his parents’ room. His mother was tidying up her room.

"Mom, I was wondering if I could talk to you."

"Sure. What is it?"

"Um, I’ve been having nightmares lately. And I was wondering..."

"Did you have another sleep paralysis?"

"Yes. It seemed so real."

"Honey, it’s just a dream. It’s all the stress you’re going through with college and your dreams. Do you really want to be an artist? Zoe’s school is not an art school. The bigger you dream, the more likely you will be disappointed. And you still want to pursue it?"

"Yeah, I think so," AJ said softly to himself.

"Think? See you are not even sure.” Mary paused for a moment. “Did you know, I wanted to be in a band?"

"You did?" asked AJ.

"Yes. I grew up learning piano, and when I got old enough, I wanted to play the electric piano in a band. Lots of bands had them at the time. But my parents were strict and forbade it. At the time, I hated them for crushing my dreams. But now, looking back, they were protecting me. I’m thankful to them. I’m happy. By quitting the band, I was able to focus on my job, where I met your father—Hey, I know! Why don’t we all go somewhere together, as a family? No more talk about school or drawing. Let’s just clear our minds. I’m sure that will help you understand."

"I don’t think you’re listening, Mom. The only reason I even draw—" AJ tried to communicate more but was cut off.

"I said no more talk of it, AJ. God, you’re so selfish sometimes. Look, your father is going to be home soon, and I need to get dinner ready," she said as she left the room.

AJ continued talking to no one. "I was going to say I only draw because it’s the only time I feel like people listen to me."

"Oh, and AJ?" Mary poked her head back into the room. "Have you talked to Mike recently?"

"Um, no more than usual. Why?" AJ asked.

"Hm. Disappointing," she said.

"Mom? Are you unhappy for some reason?" AJ didn’t know why, but it just felt right to ask. Her face completely changed. These last few days had him so focused on himself that he forgot his mother was always a kind, loving person. Not like this.

"Oh, AJ," she said with a smile. Then the smile vanished. "That’s not something you ask your parents." And then she was gone.

AJ went back to his room.

"Well?" Justin asked.

"I see it. That’s not my mother. I always thought I was the cause of their unhappiness. That this was all my doing," AJ said, looking in the mirror.

His reflection stared back at him and then spoke. "Oh, AJ. It was never your fault for their miseries. But don’t worry. We’re going to help them," said Justin.

"What the fuck?!" AJ jumped, startled. He turned around, but no one was there.

"Justin?" AJ asked, looking back at the mirror.

"Yes. For each sleep entity we take down, I grow a little stronger. A little more used to your world," said Justin.

"Whoa. When were you going to tell me this?" AJ asked.

"I’m just figuring it out myself. I don’t quite know how it works yet, but I can feel it. Just like each dream, you’re growing stronger in my world. But don’t worry. This is good. We’re going to need it to help your family."

AJ looked in the mirror, touching his face. "But why my face?"

"Because this isn’t real. I don’t have a body."

"Oh. I guess that makes sense." AJ accepted the explanation rather easily.

"Anyway, let’s keep your mom close. Let’s head downstairs and pretend like everything’s normal."

As AJ headed downstairs, his father came home early and he could hear his mother and father having a conversation in the kitchen.

"Are you sure he had nothing to do with it?" his father said.

"Yes. He is still not aware of the being inside him. I didn't detect our kind in his presence. He either hasn’t taken over yet, or he's really good at masking his presence," said Mary.

"We should have allied with Mike when we had the chance. Now we’re down two."

"That’s pointless now. What’s done is done. I think our next course of action is to isolate AJ and find the remaining sleep entity."

"Agreed."

"AJ, this is bad. Not only did they fully integrate, but they’re aware," Justin said to AJ.

"What does that mean?" AJ responded.

"It means we need to go, like now. Go. Make your way to Zoe’s house. I’ll explain on the way." Justin's voice grew more anxious.

AJ snuck past them toward the door. His mind was too cluttered to ask why. He didn’t want to alert his parents to the sound of a car starting, so he hopped on his bicycle. Zoe only lived a few blocks away.

"So, they’re fully integrated, which means the sleep entities are in complete control. They can also read their host’s memories and control the body. Their dreams will be total chaos. You can barely control your domain now—it would be a quick defeat." Justin explained to AJ on the way.

"Can they read my thoughts too?" asked AJ.

"No. I can only read your thoughts because I am attached to your subconscious. They’re just like the other entities—they’re connected to the host and are not aware of me unless I reveal myself." Explained Justin.

"So now what? Do they know we’re coming?"

"Possibly. But I think they’re more concerned about finding the other entity. And it sounds like they want to keep you away."

"Is it because we killed two of them?"

"I’m not sure. Maybe. For now, focus on saving Zoe,” said Justin.

"Save her? What do you mean?"

"Zoe loves you. She has feelings for you. But now, the sleep entity is controlling her. I’m afraid they’re going to use her to get to you. But if we get to her first, maybe you and I will gain enough power to take on your mom or dad."

AJ texted Zoe: Hey, I’m on the way to your place. We need to talk.

AJ didn’t get a response. He hurried over. Her light was still on in her room. AJ called her again but got no answer. He looked around, picked up some pebbles, and threw them at her window.

Zoe finally appeared in her window.

"What do you want?" she shouted.

"I want to talk. Let me in," said AJ.

"You’ve got one minute. Come around front—my parents aren’t home."

AJ went around to her front door, and she was waiting for him.

"Now tell me, what is it?" Zoe said with a stern tone.

"Can I come in? You’re acting weird," AJ said with a worried voice.

"I’m acting weird? You’ve been avoiding me for days. Now you want to talk? This late?" Zoe doubled downed on her irritation.

"It’s not even that late." AJ smiled, trying to go the good guy route.

"Fine, come in," Zoe said as she led AJ inside and then upstairs to her room. He took off his shoes before entering.

"Do you want to sit down? I just want to talk," said AJ.

Zoe sat on the edge of her bed, staring off into the distance. AJ pulled her computer chair over and sat down. He noticed she wasn’t making eye contact, instead looking toward the door. He looked toward the window and began wondering if coming here had been the right choice.

"Why didn’t you answer my texts or calls, Zoe?" AJ asked, turning back to her.

"I had a lot on my mind," Zoe replied.

"Well, so do I. You know I’ve been going through a lot," said AJ.

"I know, I know. I’ve been wanting to talk to you, but it never seemed like a good time."

"Well, I’m here now. What is it you wanted to talk about?" AJ asked.

Tears began rolling down Zoe’s face.

"Zoe? Hey, hey now. Why are you crying?" AJ asked.

"AJ, I tried so hard, but I don’t think I love you anymore."

"What?" AJ asked in complete shock. He was not expecting that answer.

"I know. I feel like such a bitch, but I just don’t feel close to you anymore. Something’s changed," Zoe said, crying.

"Hey, it’s okay. No, this is my fault. Zoe, I should’ve been better. I’ve been distracted. But you know me. You know how much my family treats me. You are the only one who I can talk to. The only one who truly gets me. I don’t want to lose you too," said AJ.

That made Zoe cry even more. The guilt was overwhelming her, but she didn’t know how to communicate it to AJ.

AJ moved over to the side of her bed. "You’ve been my best friend. I have an idea—let’s just be together tonight. Our emotions are running high. Let’s just cuddle, and tomorrow we can start fresh. I’ll listen to you, and whatever happens, happens."

Zoe nodded, wiping away tears, and rested her head on his shoulder. AJ kissed her forehead. All he could think about was that these feelings were from the sleep entity, and he needed to fix this tonight.

They didn’t undress or speak anymore. They just lay down on the bed. She rested her head on his chest, his arm around her. Every now and then, she cried a little, and then she fell asleep. AJ looked over at her mirror and saw his reflection nodding back. His hands started to emit the shadowy vapor. He then closed his eyes and drifted off.

"Sir AJ!" a voice jolted AJ up.

AJ woke up and looked around. He was in some sort of horse stable. A young boy dressed in medieval clothes walked in. "Sir AJ, you are two competitors away from being next."

"Um, next for what?" asked AJ.

"Sir, you must have been in a deep sleep. For the competition, of course! Jousting! The king is looking for the bravest knight to rescue the princess. Shall I get your armor?" said the young man.

"Yes," AJ said, getting up. The young lad ran off.

"AJ, it’s me," a horse peaking his head through a window, turning to him.

"Justin?" AJ asked.

"No. I’m the King of England. Yes. It’s me. Who else would be the talking horse? I had a look around. Looks like we’re in some kingdom, like medieval times. I get it—knight in shining armor, huh? So that makes me your noble steed."

"Yeah. That young kid said I am in a competition. To win the favor of a princess. Do you think Zoe is the princess? That seems a little too on the nose."

"Well, we don’t have many other choices right now, so we might as well go with it," said Justin.

"Fine," AJ said. The young lad returned and brought in his armor.

"Thank you. Um, what is your name?" asked AJ.

"My name is not important, Sir. I’m just a servant. My name isn’t even worth remembering," said the young lad.

"Your name is important to me. You’ve helped me, so thank you." AJ reassured him.

The young boy was shocked. He had never been thanked by a knight before.

"You’re welcome. My name is Michael."

"Well, Michael, do you know who I’m up against?"

"Yes, Sir. It’s the shadow knight. They are pretty tough. No one knows who is in the armor. Some say a beast."

"No one? Well, I’ll be damned," said AJ.

"Be careful, sir," Michael said, leaving the hut.

"Thanks," AJ said, waving him off.

AJ put on his armor. He grabbed a sword and shield that he assumed his and walked to the joust, with Justin following behind. There was a huge crowd in the stadium, and the King and Queen—his parents—were glaring at him. The crowd didn’t like him either.

"Who is this guy?" one person from the crowd called out.

"He’s no knight,” said another.

“He’s a commoner, but the king has allowed it. He’s been defeating all the other knights, winning the favor of the King and Queen," said a third.

Michael was in the staging area, waving for AJ to come over there.

"So, what do I do?" AJ asked Michael.

"You fight the shadow knight. If you lose, it won’t look good. Especially with the princess," explained Michael.

"Oh, right. The princess. Where is she?" asked AJ.

"Only the King knows where she is."

"And I just have to beat this guy to get her?"

"Yeah. After you defeat the knight, the king will give you a map."

"Right."

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"Well, Sir AJ, ready?" Michael asked.

"I guess," AJ said.

Michael waved his hand to the judge.

"Let the match begin!" said the judge.

"What?!" AJ exclaimed. He wasn’t ready.

"Good luck, Sir. You’ll need it," said Michael as he ran off.

"Wait! I haven’t even seen him yet. How do I fight him?" AJ asked.

"Just do the same thing you did when you saved Mike," Justin said.

"I don’t know how I did that! And shouldn’t I be riding you?"

"Excuse me? Ride me? No way. In your dreams…wait a second.” Justin realized they were in a dream, but he quickly shifted his attention to the knight charging at him.

“AJ, on your left," Justin warned.

AJ turned his head and saw a knight in all black with glowing eyes riding toward him. AJ raised his shield and lance.

"Remember, you’re not a fighter, so wait until he’s almost on you. Don’t try to block the lance directly—it’ll shatter your arms. Let his lance hit your shield, and use the force to guide the momentum. When he is off balance, lean and try to aim for his shoulder or arm," Justin instructed.

"Got it. I can do this. I can do this,” AJ said to himself.

The horses drew closer. AJ could hear the crowd screaming. The shadow knight wasn’t slowing down. The lance was out, pointing right towards him. The horse was at full charge. AJ closed his eyes and braced for impact.

"AJ, now!" Justin shouted.

"What?!" AJ said opening his eyes, just as the shadow knight was upon him. The lance hit AJ’s shield, and the force propelled AJ sideways. AJ leaned to the right and aimed for the off-balanced body. He got him—the knight fell off his horse.

"Yes! Yes!" AJ cheered.

"AJ, get back! He’s not down for good. Look!" Justin warned.

AJ turned and saw the knight getting up and picking up his lance. He threw it at AJ, hitting him in the chest, and knocking him down. Then, the knight drew his sword.

"AJ, get up!" said Justin.

AJ could see the knight already charging at him.

"Shit," AJ said frantically, looking for a weapon.

"AJ, hurry!" yelled Justin.

"He is about to swing!" Justin urged.

AJ rolled to the side, and the knight’s sword dug into the ground. AJ grabbed the lance and tried to stand, but the knight was already on top of him. AJ kicked him off, and they were both on their feet. AJ grabbed his shield.

The knight swung his sword again. AJ ducked, and the sword hit him, but it was at AJ’s shield. It knocked him back, leaving the knight vulnerable. AJ saw an opening. He got up and charged, ducking his shoulder and pushing with all his might behind the shield.

"That’s it! Push! He’s weak!" Justin said. Without AJ knowing, Justin gave a powerful back-leg kick to the knight’s head, dazing him.

"Yes! Keep going! Just keep pushing," continued Justin.

AJ kept pushing, and the knight fell. AJ got in a final blow, holding his shield over the knight’s head, ready to strike.

"Do you yield?" AJ asked. The knight didn’t respond.

"I think he hit his head on the way down. He’s unconscious. You did it!" Justin said.

"I did? Oh, wow. Okay. Not used to it being that easy after Mike’s dream. I guess now we go talk to the king," AJ said.

"Yeah, and get the princess," Justin added.

"Right," AJ said, looking up at the King and Queen, who were glaring down at him. They didn’t seem pleased.

"Not an honorable way to win, but a win is a win. Here is the map to the princess," the king said, throwing it down to the arena floor.

"Thanks," AJ said, taking the map and examining it. "So, I just have to find the cave, go in, and get her?"

"Of course not. The cave is the least of your worries. You must defeat the final monster before you can save the princess—a dragon. If you think that knight was bad, the monster is going to be much worse. Honestly, better men than you have tried and perished, so I’m not going to waste my time with you any longer," the king said.

AJ looked over at the queen, but she just turned her head in disgust.

"Tough crowd," Justin said.

"Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad. I'll just be on my way then," AJ said, walking off.

"Well, now what? Where is the map leading us?" Justin asked.

"According to this, we have to get out of the city, follow the main road to a river, then follow the river to a mountain, and there’s a cave," AJ explained.

"Who drew this map? A five-year-old? Well, the faster we go, the sooner we can figure this out," Justin said.

AJ and Justin left the stadium.

"Hey, AJ! Sir AJ!" a voice shouted. It was Michael.

"You forgot your sword," Michael said.

"Thanks," AJ replied.

"I just wanted to say good luck on your journey."

AJ nodded and hopped on Justin.

"What are you doing?" Justin asked.

"What? You’re my horse! This is the fastest way," said AJ.

"It is a dream. You can think up a million horses with jet packs. Besides, It’s uncomfortable," said Justin.

"Fine." AJ hopped off. Both Justin and AJ set off, following the road to the river.

"So, why a horse?" AJ asked.

"When in someone else’s domain, you have to adhere to their will. You don’t have to because you have your own mind controlled by your domain. Entities do not have that luxury. We can only manipulate the mind to change us. I guess our subconscious made a connection between the story," Justin explained.

"What’s this power you said you would show me?" AJ asked.

"That’s a good question. In the real world, you have a good eye. You see things others can’t. I think it’s tied to that, or maybe it’s connected to your artistic abilities. Either way, you’ve got strong observation skills, and you see the world from a different light."

AJ and Justin talked all the way to the river. They were greeted by a knight in all white with a black sword.

"Fear not. I’m here to let you pass. I am the first of three knights, called Light. Follow the river until the road forks, and you’ll see a mountain. Take the right path, and you’ll be greeted by the next knight."

"That’s it? Let’s not look a gift horse in the mouth, right, Justin? Ha, get it—'cause you’re a horse?" AJ joked.

"No. Only you," said the knight.

"What? Without Justin? No way," AJ said.

"AJ, it’s okay. You’re more powerful than you think. I’ll be waiting," Justin reassured him.

"I’ve got a bad feeling. This is all too easy," AJ said.

"They’re underestimating us. Even if it’s a trap, we can handle it. I’ll come at the first sign of trouble." Justin reassured AJ.

"Okay," AJ said, continuing forward. He kept walking and walking. At some point, he lost sight of both the knight and Justin. How will I know if I’m in trouble? AJ wondered.

The river was nice to walk along, flowing in the direction of the mountain as if guiding him there.

"Halt," a black knight carrying a white sword said.

"Are you here to guide me too?" AJ asked.

The knight moved aside and pointed his sword toward the upper left of the mountain. AJ could see a pathway leading to a cave with a glowing light.

"Is that where Zoe—I mean, the princess—is?" AJ asked, but the knight just nodded.

AJ’s heart started pounding. What kind of monsters will I have to fight? AJ continued up the mountain.

The sun was beginning to set, and AJ still hadn’t seen Justin anywhere. He began to worry. His pace slowed as his legs grew tired, and his breathing became labored.

He stopped and looked up. The cave was so close.

"I guess I’m going alone," AJ muttered to himself.

AJ made his way up. The cave was dark, but not so dark that he couldn’t see. It was as if the sun was shining directly into it. And right at the entrance stood the same shadow knight from the jousting event.

"Let me guess, you’re just going to point toward the cave," AJ said.

But the knight just stared at him with those glowing red eyes. AJ slowly walked past him, deeper into the cave. It spiraled downward, not too long but long enough. When he reached the bottom, the cave opened up.

"Wow. It’s beautiful," AJ said.

There was a pond, flowers, and a pathway. It was bright and full of life. He could feel the warmth of the sun coming from above. He followed the path, and as he got closer, he could hear loud snoring.

AJ stopped and looked up. There it was—a huge, golden dragon.

"I was not expecting this. Do I just sneak past or...?" AJ whispered to himself.

He started looking for a way to the other side of the dragon. The path was the only option—there was no way to go around, up, or under. It was now or never.

AJ began to sneak along the path. He didn’t know what else might be in the cave, but he hoped he didn’t wake anything. The dragon’s snoring continued, which was a good sign.

Halfway along the path, a sleeping bat spotted him. It screeched and flapped its wings, waking the dragon.

"Oh shit," AJ said.

The dragon opened its eyes, blinking both vertically and horizontally. It lifted its head and stared at AJ.

"Oh, it’s you," the dragon said.

"You know me?" AJ asked.

"Yes. Zoe has told me much about you," the dragon replied. "I call myself her guardian, but you will likely call me... what is it? A sleep entity."

"You’re not trying to hide it?" AJ asked, suspicious.

"Have you felt any hostility so far? You were free to come and go as you pleased," the dragon said.

"No. In fact, this has all been too easy," AJ admitted.

"And now your guard is up. You’re not wrong, but it wasn’t to make it easy for you. I can feel the power radiating from you. You are strong. It would have been foolish to stop you."

"So then, what do you want? What do any of you want?" AJ asked.

"To exist. To feel. Is that so wrong? Zoe has shown me things I couldn’t even comprehend until I was with her. And I have to thank you too."

"What do you mean?" AJ asked confused.

"We've watched you—with your entity. You work in compatibility. It seemed like the highest probability for my survival with Zoe."

"Why didn’t you let me bring Justin here?" AJ asked.

The dragon stood up, looking scared. "Because he would seek to destroy me. He is not like the rest of us."

"What do you mean?" AJ asked. "He has only ever protected me."

"Yes. But why? I don’t think he’s been honest with you."

"And why should I trust you? You’re holding Zoe hostage!" AJ exclaimed.

"Look around. Does this seem like a prison? She’s here of her own free will. I help her understand her feelings. I don’t lie—none of us do. In fact, in every encounter you’ve had so far, none of them were lies. All we do is amplify emotions."

"No, that can’t be true. Their minds—my brother, my family. Their minds were twisted, dark, violent. That’s not who they are."

"You poor creature. Those are human emotions. We are not capable of such emotions. Those were their true selves. Deep down, I think you know this to be true."

"Lies! Your kind corrupted everyone I love. I can see how much they’re suffering. And now you’re doing it to Zoe! Please. She’s the one good thing in my life. I love her and will do anything. So, if you don’t release her..." AJ screamed, clenching his fists.

The knight from the cave entrance walked in, moving to stand next to the dragon. The dragon looked at the knight, then back at AJ.

"But it’s true. We are incapable of lying." The dragon paused. "There will be no need for violence. Instead, a wager. Prove your love for her, and I will release Zoe to you under these conditions: You will turn around and leave the way you came. I will have her follow you. You are not allowed to turn around and gaze upon her, not even once. She will not be able to speak to you. Each knight will ask you a question to test your love for her. Once you pass my last knight by the river, she is yours. I will return to where I came from. That’s better than not existing. But if you turn around at any point, she stays with me forever. If you fail to pass my knights, she stays with me. If you stray from the path, she stays with me. Do you understand?"

"All I have to do is not look at her and leave?" AJ asked. It seemed too easy, but he was so tired of the violence. "Okay. Deal."

"Turn around, young one," said the dragon. AJ turned around. "Zoe, are you ready?" the dragon asked.

"Yes," said a voice behind AJ.

"Zoe? Are you alright? Are you hurt?" AJ asked.

"She is not allowed to speak from here on out.” The dragon reminded AJ.

"I’m going to get you out of here," AJ said in frustration at the dragon’s rules. "Zoe, I’m so sorry I put you in this, but I swear I will protect you and get you out of here. Stay close to me. I won’t let anything happen to you."

AJ began to walk out of the cave toward the first knight.

“I don’t think I can do this," Zoe said to the dragon.

AJ didn’t hear that. Instead, he tried to psych himself up. "I’ll do it. You don’t have to worry. I’ll handle this. Just follow my lead, okay? Please?"

AJ made his way out of the cave. The knight guarding the dragon approached him from behind.

Thud Thud Thud The dragon walked out of the cave too, passing them until it was outside. It spread its wings and stretched. The knight moved over and stood beside the dragon.

"Oh yes, much better. That cave can get so cramped for me. For the first question, I will ask—this will count for the shadow knight." The dragon retracted its wings and took a deep breath. "When was the first time you realized you loved Zoe?"

AJ paused and looked back. The knight raised his sword.

"Answer," the dragon said.

"Well, I always knew, from the first moment I laid eyes on her. She was the most popular girl in school. But it was the night of the homecoming dance. Her date had bailed, so I asked her if she wanted to go with me. We were only friends up until that point, so I thought she’d say no, but she didn’t. It was the best night of my life. I had the biggest crush on her. She was the nicest girl in the world. She checks all the boxes. She had a smile that made me smile and a laugh that could melt my heart. She really cares about me and the world. I feel like she’s the only one I can truly talk to about life and my family. She gets me."

"Hmm." The dragon nodded. "You may proceed."

The knight nodded and started walking away.

"That’s it? I went on and on, and you’re just going to accept my answer?" AJ asked, confused. But he didn’t argue and set off down the mountain.

"Okay, let’s go, Zoe. I’d like to hear your answer when this is all over. I know you can’t speak now, and I know we haven’t had a chance to talk in a while, but now you know why. Honestly, I thought I was going crazy. I just want things to go back to normal—how they were before."

AJ kept talking. It comforted him, or maybe he just couldn’t bear the silence knowing Zoe was behind him.

AJ and Zoe continued walking down the path.

"So, the knight was easy, the dragon was easy. Now what? Why did the dragon just accept my answer? It could’ve asked anything, but it chose something simple—something I had an answer to." AJ was talking out loud but also thinking to himself.

They walked down the road to the fork, where a knight dressed in black awaited them.

"Hello, AJ. I am the dark knight. Are you ready for my question? What is love to you?" the knight asked.

AJ was quiet for a moment. "Love? Love is an emotion that makes you feel special—the ultimate connection with someone. They become a part of you. When I’m around her, my heart skips a beat. She makes me feel safe and protected. But most of all, she’s the one who knows me best. I don’t have to be anything other than myself around her. She brings out the best in me. She makes me believe anything is possible."

The knight drew his sword. AJ waited, thinking he had answered wrong, but then the knight drove his sword into the ground.

"You may pass," the knight said. AJ didn’t hesitate.

"Just one more knight. We got this," AJ said to Zoe. "What is love? What kind of questions are these, Zoe? Let’s hurry up to the next one. Oh, you’ll meet Justin. He’s another entity like the dragon, but don’t worry, this one’s good. He’s been helping me."

AJ reached the last knight. "Light, was it?" he said, looking over at Justin with a smile. "Justin!"

Justin looked confused. "What are—"

"Wait a moment, Justin. Go on with your question, Light," AJ said confidently. Justin just watched, but still confused.

"Very well," said the knight. "Where do you see yourself in fifty years? When you're long retired?"

"Retired? Hmm. I’ve never really thought about it. I guess I’d be the same—a husband, a father, maybe even a grandfather. A big house where my family can be together. Maybe I’ll even have a dog or a cat, or both." He thought for a moment. "I hope I’m still drawing. I hope that by then my family accepts me and they’re still proud of me." AJ finished somberly.

"Your answer... is the truth," said the knight. "You may leave if you wish."

"Of course I wish to leave!" AJ exclaimed as he began to rush off. "Come on, Justin. I’ll explain on the way. Zoe, we’re almost there."

Justin looked behind him. "Did you just say 'Zoe'?"

"Yeah. Think you can give her a ride out of here?" AJ asked.

"Sure. But... where is she?" Justin asked.

AJ stopped but didn’t turn around. "Justin... behind me. Is Zoe not there?" he asked, terrified.

"No one’s there," Justin replied.

"That liar. That monster!" AJ was filled with rage as he turned around. "Justin, to me! We’re doing this my way now!" AJ rushed back toward the light knight.

"Wait, slow down! What happened on that mountain?" Justin asked.

"Halt! You cannot pass," said the knight.

"Oh, now I can’t pass? Yeah, that makes sense. I’m done talking!" AJ drew his sword and swung it at the knight, but it bounced off. They exchanged blows back and forth.

"AJ, don’t forget. This is a dream. Think—what is it that you do? You draw. Use your mind. You can create anything in this world. Or let me help."

"No! Don’t help. I don’t want to draw. I want to hurt this knight," AJ growled in rage.

Their swords locked together. "You are blind, AJ," said the knight.

"You said I got the answer right!" AJ shouted.

"No, I said I believe you were telling the truth," the knight replied.

"Argh!" AJ headbutted the knight, dazing him. Then AJ landed a chest kick, knocking the knight off his feet. Without hesitation, AJ drove his sword into the knight, sending his helmet flying—revealing his brother, Mike.

AJ, panting, said, "Mike?"

"Surprise. Ha... ugh," Mike coughed up blood. "No, you know I’m not the real Mike. I was given this face to connect with you, but you made sure to end that quickly. AJ, your answer—why wasn’t Zoe in it?"

"What?" AJ asked, confused. "What do you mean? You asked where I see myself."

"Exactly. And you didn’t see her there in the future, did you?" Mike coughed again, blood trickling from his mouth.

"That’s irrelevant. I can barely see my own future. This is a trick, and I won’t waste time here. You’re not my brother." AJ drove his sword deeper, ending the knight.

"Let’s go," AJ said.

"Okay," Justin replied, following. They ran along the river toward the next knight.

"You know, AJ," Justin began, "I’m not saying that knight was right, but it reminded me of the first night you and I met—the older version of you, drawing at the beach with a family. That wasn’t Zoe."

"So what? That was you, wasn’t it? The one who started this whole mess—invading my mind on the beach."

"I didn’t create that, though. We can’t create emotions. I was merely drawn to it. It was so warm, so safe. I believe that’s what pure happiness felt like."

AJ stopped. "So, are you saying sleep entities can’t lie?"

"Pretty much," Justin replied.

AJ grew suspicious. He didn’t know what was worse—whether they were both lying or both telling the truth.

"We can discuss it later. Let’s just get Zoe," AJ said.

They saw the dark knight in the distance. AJ was so angry that he charged ahead without hesitation.

"Halt—"

SMASH

AJ didn’t even let the knight finish. He rammed his shoulder into the knight, sending his sword flying.

"Wait!" the knight cried out.

AJ grabbed him by his chest armor and dragged him to the river's edge.

"What are you doing?!" the knight asked in terror.

"I’m sick of hearing you all talk," AJ snarled.

"Wait, wait, it’s me, AJ!" the knight pleaded, removing his helmet to reveal Everett’s face.

"Really? Everett?" AJ said, rolling his eyes.

"AJ, we can’t let you pass since your answers—"

"What’s wrong with my answers, huh? And you? The almost killer of hundreds? Going to lecture me about love? Who have you loved?" AJ shot back.

"True. But I can tell you that you’re not in love. You knew from the first moment you saw her? Your love is superficial. You’re just two friends attracted to each other. And there’s nothing wrong with that—you could be happy together, but that’s not love. The problem is we only have one word, 'love,' for such a wide spectrum of feelings. But you haven’t loved deeply. How could you know? You haven’t felt love, not even from your family. I believe you think you’re in love, but like me, we’ve never known love—so we don’t know how to give it back. Ask someone who is truly in love the same question I asked you, and see how yours compares."

"Not know love? My family loves me. What are you talking about?" Aj questioned the logic.

"But when’s the last time they showed it? When’s the last time someone actually said, 'I love you'?"

AJ froze in thought. He can’t remember. "I’m sick of this," AJ said, dunking Emmet’s head underwater, holding him there. Emmet’s armor was too heavy for him to lift himself up or fight back.

"AJ, that’s enough. He wasn’t fighting back," Justin warned. "I said, enough!" Justin knocked AJ back, and Emmet fell into the river, quickly drifting away.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" Justin demanded.

"This is just a dream. There are no consequences, right? I’m just trying to get to Zoe," said AJ as he made his way to the fork in the road and up the mountain. Justin couldn’t think of an argument but didn’t like the way things were going.

"AJ, what happened to get you so upset?" Justin asked. But AJ didn’t answer.

AJ and Justin reached the entrance of the cave. The shadow knight was sitting on a rock, waiting.

"Did you always know I’d be back?" AJ asked. "Doesn't matter. Where is the dragon?"

From the top of the mountain, a gust of wind was felt. The dragon descended from above and landed by the entrance.

"You are back. Well, did you learn anything?" asked the dragon.

"I learned you can lie. This whole thing was a trick," AJ said angrily.

The knight got up and drew his sword.

"No, AJ. No trick. We can still resolve this without violence. I let you leave and gave Zoe the choice as well. She chose not to go with you," said the dragon.

"AJ, what is it talking about? Did you try making a deal with it?! You can’t trust it!" Justin exclaimed.

"I know that! I just thought we could end this peacefully. It’s getting to be too much, and I needed a break. But now I know. You’re right, Justin. We need to destroy them all."

The knight hopped on the dragon. The dragon spread its wings.

"They’re trying to get away!" AJ screamed.

"Not on our watch. Hop on," Justin said, bending down. AJ hopped on. Justin, in horse form, grew wings, turning himself into a Pegasus. The dragon took off, and Justin and AJ followed close behind.

"How are we going to beat a dragon?" AJ asked.

"Don’t worry. I’ll try and knock him out of the sky. Just be ready to stab him in the heart," said Justin.

Justin began to gain speed as the dragon flew higher and higher until they were above the clouds.

The dragon flew fast, but Justin and AJ were right behind him. Justin flew over the dragon, and AJ raised his sword. Justin swooped down and crashed into the dragon.

Both entities went down. The dragon had a strong grip on Justin's neck, but Justin was able to use his wings to stay upright. AJ was ready and swung his sword, but the knight blocked it with his own sword. The dragon let go of Justin and flew to the side. AJ missed his shot and almost fell off Justin.

"Go. I’ll distract him. Take him down," said Justin as he chased after the dragon.

"Alright. Time to end this," AJ muttered.

The dragon was trying to flee, but AJ saw it.

"Not this time. He won’t get away," AJ said.

Justin was closing in on the dragon, managing to fly side by side with it. AJ hopped off Justin and onto the dragon. Justin let go and was pushed away by the dragon. The dragon now focused on AJ.

"Well, looks like it’s just us now," AJ said to the knight. The knight drew its sword but realized AJ didn’t have his. AJ smirked. Justin came crashing in with AJ's sword in his mouth and rammed it into the dragon's chest.

The dragon spun and started to fall. AJ, free-falling in the air, kept his eyes laser-focused on the dragon and the knight as they plummeted. The dragon fell through the clouds, heading straight for the cave.

AJ braced for impact, closing his eyes, but Justin swooped in and caught him. "Gotcha," said Justin.

The dragon crashed into the ground. The knight went flying, rolling across the ground, its body twisting in unnatural ways before smashing hard into the wall.

AJ and Justin landed safely. AJ immediately hopped off and walked over to the dragon, his sword drawn and pointed at its neck.

"Last time. Where is Zoe?" AJ demanded.

"You foolish boy. The damsel in distress is what you wanted? Go claim your prize. The knight will show you," said the dragon.

"Do it, AJ," Justin urged.

AJ drove his sword into the dragon's neck, not killing it but immobilizing it. Then walked over to the knight.

"We don’t need to find her. We killed the entity," Justin said.

The knight had been slammed into the wall so hard it left a human-sized crater.

"Where is Zoe?!" AJ demanded, picking up the knight's sword.

The knight weakly pointed at its helmet, unable to remove it. AJ helped, taking off the helmet.

"No..." AJ muttered.

"Oh, shit," said Justin.

Underneath the helmet was Zoe.

"I don’t understand," AJ said, shocked.

Zoe was coughing up blood. "I know," she whispered before losing consciousness.

"Zoe! Zoe?! Hey, wake up!" AJ shouted, panicking.

"AJ, we need to wake up. The entity is vulnerable," Justin urged.

"But Zoe—!"

"She’ll be fine after the entity is gone!"

AJ nodded. He closed his eyes and focused.

AJ woke up back in Zoe's room, still paralyzed, but he was used to it by now. Using his peripheral vision, he scanned the room. He saw Zoe by his side but then noticed another entity—and another Zoe. This Zoe was giving off a lot of shadowy vapors. He watched as the second Zoe backed toward the wall as if begging. The entity towered over her, driving its arm through her. The second Zoe transformed from a human into another entity, collapsing to its knees, writhing in pain. Then, it faded into nothingness. The entity turned toward AJ, placed its hand on his chest, and he fell back asleep.

The next morning, AJ woke up. He looked around and saw that Zoe was already awake, sitting at the edge of her bed.

"Zoe?" AJ said.

"Oh, you're awake?" she responded.

"Um, how did you sleep?" AJ asked.

She looked at him and then back at the corner where the other Zoe had been destroyed.

"I was awake for it," Zoe said.

"What? Awake for what?" AJ asked, confused.

"I named it Thea. For truth."

"You knew?" AJ asked, surprised.

"AJ, I think you and I shouldn’t see each other anymore," said Zoe.

AJ was taken aback. He had just destroyed the entity. Why was this happening?

"I don’t understand. I saved you," said AJ.

"From what, AJ? From Thea? Thea never lied. I chose not to go with you. You just assumed you knew how I felt. You know that first question? ‘What was the first moment you knew you loved me?’ I asked my dad that question about my mom. Even divorced, you could see the excitement in his eyes when he answered. He had an exact moment when his heart, for the first time in his life, whispered, ‘That’s the one.’ He knew he’d never be able to live without her, that for the rest of his life, he’d never be whole again. And that reality became more exciting than his dreams. But even that love didn’t last."

She paused, then continued. "Then I heard your answer. It wasn’t that it was wrong or bad. My answer would have been similar. But when I heard it, I froze. You walked off. I wanted to talk to you. I wanted you to turn around and see me. But you left, and I didn’t follow. I’m just so sorry I couldn’t express myself. I’m still learning. Thea taught me that. I have a lot of growing to do, and I’d like to do it alone."

"Please. You’re the only one in my life who gets me. I’ll be alone," said AJ.

"AJ, you will never be alone. Heal yourself, and others will come. You never have to hurt by yourself."

There was a long silence. AJ tried to reach for her hand, but she pulled away.

"I just need a break," Zoe said.

"A break from all this or a break from us?" AJ asked softly.

"AJ," she said, looking down.

"Please. We can work this out," AJ pleaded.

"No. No, AJ. I can’t. Not right now," she said, tearing up.

"Can we still be friends?" AJ asked.

"I just... I'm not sure."

"I will always love you," said AJ.

"Please don’t say that. Just... let’s not talk anymore. I’ll still be here."

"You’re just pushing me away because I know what’s good for you," AJ said.

"You don’t know what’s best for me!" she replied angrily. "You never thought to ask."

"That’s the problem with you, Zoe. You want everyone else to solve your problems and are never willing to help yourself. I did everything. I did all the work. I fought to save you."

"It’s my life. It was my fight too," said Zoe.

"No, it wasn’t. You just stood there and let me handle everything. I’ve always been the one fighting for you. Always. I did the work, and when the time came for you to do the work, you threw it all away. Why did you not just follow me? I did everything, and you just let it go. All that time spent protecting you, fighting for you. And this is how you repay me?"

"You don’t think I’m angry too? At all of this? I was forced to live a lie. How can I love you when I don’t even think you know who you are."

"No, no. You know me better than anyone else. You’re the only one I can trust. It’s us against the world. Together."

"It wasn’t like that. I was being deceived, AJ. This entire relationship. I didn’t have a choice. You never let me. You did all the fighting. I just got caught in the crossfire."

"You make me sound like a monster."

"I don’t see a difference between you and that, thing. And the worst part is, you did all of this to yourself. You created this reality for yourself, and I’m not sure if it’s a reality you can ever come back from. The real you is so broken. You’re not the person I thought I knew."

"I’m just—"

"No, you’re not. And that’s okay because you’re not supposed to be. You can’t keep living this way. I can’t keep living this way."

"Zoe, I can’t lose you. You’re my world. Please, just talk to me. I’ll fix it. I’ll fix this. I can make things the way they were."

"AJ you are a wonderful person that I care deeply about, but did you ever stop to think separating is what fixes us? The entity is gone and I am still broken. This is what is supposed to happen."

"So, what, you’re just going to leave?"

"I’m sorry, AJ, but yes. We need to move on. We’re not in the dream but we are still dreaming if we think this can work. We need to wake up," said Zoe.

She got up, walked over to him, and gave him a hug.

"Take care of yourself, AJ," said Zoe.

"Yeah, you too," AJ replied.

He left the building. No more fighting. He was done. His mind felt foggy the whole way back. Her words hadn’t sunk in yet. He got all the way back to his house and stared at it for a while. He didn’t want to go in. And it wasn’t because there were two entities inside taking over his parents. He just didn’t feel like that was home.

"Justin?" AJ asked.

"Yeah. I’m here," Justin responded.

"Is something wrong with me?" AJ asked.

"Yes," Justin replied.

AJ looked sad.

Justin continued, "There’s something wrong with all humans, though. I think ‘wrong’ is a terrible word—it makes it sound negative. There’s nothing wrong with being, well, wrong. It’s how you grow from it. Learn from it. You humans have a fixation that ‘wrong’ is bad and ‘normal’ is good. ‘Dark’ is bad and ‘light’ is good. At the end of it all, you should ask yourself one question: were you happy in that house?"

"I don’t think I was. But not because of them. I think... I think it was me," said AJ.

"And there’s nothing wrong with that. Now, let’s go change that."