My Delicious Dream Boy is an ongoing manhua written and illustrated by Xiyuer. First released in 2020, it has been published by Kuaikan Manhua, and then in English by Tapas Media in 2021 where it updates every Tuesday.
Dream demon Yi Kui spends a long time attempting to induce sleep within college student Lin You in order to eat his nightmares. Very gradually does he reconsider his humans are prey and nothing more worldview, while having returned to college after experiencing an illness, Lin You is happy to make friends.
Synopsis[]
The loner kid who entered school a month late because he was sick became friends with the most popular boy in school! But later on, he discovered that this heartthrob with a good reputation is actually not human? The loner kid who easily gets nightmares catches the Dream Demon's eye. “Your dream is exceptionally tasty~” It’s hard to make friends at school. If you’re not careful, you might get eaten by the Dream Demon~
Characters[]
Yi Kui/Mara Yi[]
Regarded as the most popular, handsome pink-haired guy, Yi Kui is a first-year college student. Considered friendly, Yi Kui treats others kindly and is very passionate when engaging with others. Despite this impression, Yi Kui is upfront how he is faking it since he is a demon who feeds off of dreams. Friends with Xue Ke and Diao, he invites Lin You to eat with them, yet Yi Kui is interested in the 100% chance of dreaming and having a nightmare that he can discern from Lin You. Seeing his release magic that can make a target sleepy has no effect, and also finding his powers are nullified when he flies close to a barrier around Lin You’s apartment, Yi Kui attempts to have him sleep in class, even though he does not like using such an ability. Exceptionally kind to Lin You yet resolutely set on having him sleep to eat his nightmares, Yi Kui also considers his expression after Lin You shouts he will go to karaoke, where he wonders if he does not like these kind of events. While he was hoping for Lin You to sleep somewhere else, at seeing him cry, Lin You changes to comforting Lin You. Many kind acts are done such as getting ice cream for Lin You, yet all the while Yi Kui is fixed on acquiring the dreams. Suggesting they see a movie together, Yi Kui chooses one that looked boring where along with the cinema setting it seemed perfect for hypnosis. Unwavering in this desire, even at hearing that he is Lin You’s first friend, and providing a display that he will show him how to make more friends, Yi Kui is thinking the closer he gets to him, the more he knows, and the more chances there will be to consume his dreams. Contacting his uncle for guidance on how a human might resist spells, Yi Kui widens his tactics. While Lin You is praised for having a needle and thread in his bag to stitch up a toy bear, Yi Kui uses the opportunity to express an interest in what else he might have in his bag, where he is on the lookout for a protective talisman that Lin You might have on his person. Aware that magic is coming his way from a man but not showing it, Yi Kui concentrates on taking Lin You to an Internet café to play games without revealing the extent of his awareness to anyone. Dealing with other dream demons as competition, Yi Kui lies that he found them already knocked out when he is seen by Lin You in the aftermath of a skirmish. Commenting how this place does not seem safe, Yi Kui urges Lin You to leave with him. Asked what he thinks of Lin You’s cooking, it is left unsaid what Yi Kui means when he looks at him and answers it is very delicious. Ignoring other demons like one he refers to as Uncle, he also threatens upperclassmen such as to Ian stay away from his target. Placing Lin You’s face mask over him to show he cares, Yi Kui says it is better to wear it since there is too much dust, before thinking is he overdoing it. While considering Lin You is without his charm so it may be perfect to eat his dreams, Yi Kui observes him speaking how he would like to return to the sports festival to cheer on his friends. Reconsidering, Yi Kui this atmosphere is getting dangerous. His ever-waveringly goal is largely not impeded by feelings, but by practical obstacles. At last causing Lin You to sleep, Yi Kui finds he cannot eat his dreams due to interruptions from others. In keeping him from other entities such as Ian, he is affected by an appetite potion that was slipped into his drink. Another side is a sense of frustration related to his background that Yi Kui is conscious to not reveal. Returning to relatives after having avoided them for so long, Yi Kui continues his outward person to look up to persona, and resisting any challenges to his inner humans are prey and nothing more attitude.
Character Article: Yi Kui[]
Lin You/Joel Lin[]
A first-year student at college, Lin You considers himself bad with words. Experiencing illnesses during his childhood where he was often alone may have factored into this. His most distinguishing trait is the same facial expression he displays regardless of what he is feeling within. Also easily getting nightmares that he is not particularly bothered by, Lin You keeps a protective talisman in his apartment, and an additional one in his bag. Not only is Lin You resistant to Yi Kui’s sleep magic he is also capable of seeing it. Meeting Yi Kui he notes the resemblance to the person in his dreams, and would regard the similarities one more than one occasion, yet Lin You feels they are two very different people. A perspective based on their actions, Lin You considers how the demon in the dream only hurts him, while Yi Kui treats him well. Where his smile is unnerving to other students, Lin You does not seem to comprehend this and wonders why girls flee from him after he spoke with them. With Yi Kui being friendly towards him, without showing any facial expression, Lin You thinks he is really a good person and must have lots of friends. After being given ice cream and taken to the cinema among other niceties, Lin You speaks how he is bad at communicating with others, in part due to an illness which required a long time in hospital. While he fumbles the words, Lin You shares during these years that Yi Kui was his first friend. Having been provided some rules to help him make friends, Lin You does carry them out in his own way. Remembering rule #3, that he has Yi Kui who will be by his side to help him, so he should not stress too much, Lin You thinks he is really amazing. Able to cook, Lin You asks Yi Kui and also Xue Ke with Diao to come round to his for lunch. Having made some small sculptures out of clay, Lin You would like to give his favorite one to his favorite person, Yi Kui. Having never taken part in a sporting event before, Lin You is inwardly happy to cheer from the stands. Refusing Ian's advances and requests for friendship at Yi Kui’s direction, he would feel some sympathy for him when hearing he also has difficulty making friends. Unsure why Yi Kui is acting like he is, Lin You hears he wants to eat his nightmares but does not connect the dots between him and the demon in his nightmares. When Yi Kui takes issue with Ian's presence, Lin You looks for a way to separate them. After being pinned by Yi Kui, who he feels is drunk from coffee, Lin You can resort to some means to have him regain his mind. Acting to help Yi Kui, when he disappears, Lin You is concerned for his well-being. Stricken that his messages may be being ignored on purpose, Lin You is more gravely concerned at the thought Yi Kui may have been kidnapped and is unable to answer. While Lin You has many family members to support him, including Yasmine, a cousin who lives next door, a yearning for friends more than once brings him to tears. Where messages to Yi Kui go unanswered, and Lin You is not an accomplished communicator to begin with, who knows next to nothing about demons, he does what little he can to affirm his feelings.
Character Article: Lin You/Joel Lin[]
Joel's Mother[]
Speaking over a video call, she urges Joel to remember to greet his teacher when he meets them. If he cannot find the way to school, she advises him to ask the people nearby. Questioning if he has his supplies and ID, Joel's mothers says to not forget to bring medicine with him at all times. Aware that the teacher's office is located on the second floor of a building, she mentions for Joel to not get lost. Detailing that it is their son's first time going to school all by himself, and it is so far from home, Joel's mother questions Joel's father whether he is really not that worried. Sending what are essentially dubious articles on what may cause nightmares in a group chat, she advises Joel to expand his reading capacity as it helps him.
Joel's Father[]
Involved in the conversation, Joel's father reads a newspaper while Joel's mother speaks to their son over a video call. He informs her Joel is a college student, not a little kid, so can take care of himself.
Shirley Wu/Wu Xue Ke[]
Friends with Mara, in the lecture hall Shirley informs her brother Shane that his tiredness is his own fault for drinking so much. With Mara speaking to Joel, she asks whether that is the new student. Questioning what is wrong with getting to know him, Shirley affirms if one looks closely, he seems pretty attractive. Asking Mara why he is hogging the new student, Shirley wants to talk to him too. Saying for them to exchange WeChat, Shirley introduces herself. Finding herself in a project including Mara and Joel, she volunteers herself to go and interview people. Taking part in acquiring interviews, Shirley states as expected of Mara, it helps having a handsome guy conduct interviews as it is really effective. With her plush bear having been ripped, Shirley thanks Joel for providing a needle and thread. Having seen what he posted online, Shirley remarks it seems like Joel is really good at cooking. Seeing the meal prepared, Shirley comments Joel is amazing and she wants to take a pic. Sure that Joel must be a good child at home, Shirley is further impressed at his sculpting clay creations and says she will have the Christmas polar bear one. Enthusiastic at the sports festival, Shirley shouts if a contender wins she will let them boss her around for a month. Out with a friend she notices Joel being spoken to by Ian. Coming to his aid, Shirley acts as if they were to meet, and winking at Joel she mentions for them to go as they do not want to be late for their reservation. Thinking she needs to get Joel away from Ian as he resumes speaking, Shirley comments how time is ticking. After Ian questions if he can tag along, Shirley replies sorry but they do not want to go with someone they do not know. After he shares his name then shows no sign of relenting, Shirley resorts to calling Mara. Unnerved by Ian telling her to stop interfering, Shirley wonders could he tell she was trying to get Joel away from him. Speaking highly of Mara for arriving so soon, Shirley shares when she saw that guy was talking to Joel she got such a bad feeling, like her son was about to be kidnapped. Where she and a friend were off to karaoke, Shirley explains the afternoon deals are super cheap. Answering her phone to hear there is a class meeting, Shirley had been told it was cancelled and how this isn't much notice. Hearing that Mara hung up on Joel after he called, Shirley consoles him and reasons that this was probably because something suddenly came up. Stating that Mara should be back after two more days, Shirley suggests Joel could ask him in person. Handing Joel some tokens he can use in the arcade, Shirley is pleased to see that he and Mara have made up. Sharing that Joel was worried, Shirley affirms for Mara to not ignore him ever again. Praising Joel as an expert for the arcade prizes he is winning, Shirley is also happy to go to the pub as she does not have class tomorrow morning so she can stay out later. Commenting that every day someone new is saying hi to Mara, she questions how many people does he know. Having heard a store's candies are really good, Shirley asks if others would like some. She is unable to eat ice cream. With Shane commenting that he envies people that have someone to care for them, Shirley questions what he means when she gave up hanging out with her friend to come shopping with him.
Shane/Diao[]
Attending college with his sister Shirley, he is also friends with Mara. Coming across Mara with someone unconscious, Shane is alarmed then asks what happened and why is he lying on the ground. Holding the unconscious person up, Shane questions how much did he drink when that was given as the reason. Told to head in, Shane takes the other guy and tells Mara to come back soon since the girls keep asking where he went. Asking if Mara wants to go to the cafeteria together, Shane notices his interest in Joel. Remarking that he does not look too happy, Joel elaborates that Mara appears like he is about to eat someone. Hearing that it is because Mara was staying up late playing games, Shane comments if he is still upset about that. Spotting Joel and pointing him out as the new kid to Mara, he encourages the latter to head to class while he will bring stuff back to the dorm. Also wanting to add Joel on WeChat at the karaoke gathering, Shane joins Mara in helping Joel back to his dorm. Not allowing Mara to go by himself, Shane comments to look at how fragile he is and what if he faints on the sidewalk. Offering to help carry Joel then noting he is crying again, Shane laughs at mommy Kui with Joel having referred to him as that. Remarking that Joel's apartment is pretty nice, Shane notes the bathroom is quite big. Speculating whether it could be a real talisman when seeing it, Shane is surprised at the electrical emission from the object then questions why this sticker is leaking electricity. After heading to the bathroom, Shane says for Mara to hurry since the girls in the group chat are urging him to go back and sing again. Joining the conversation on Joel's cooking, Shane questions if he usually makes his own meals. Hearing Shirley comment that she hopes a certain someone could learn how to sew and cook too, Shane questions if she is talking about him. Further irate at being asked what else does he do at home besides sleeping and playing games, Shane answers he also washes the dishes. Eating at Joel's, he comments it smells so good and can they eat now. With Mara's family inquired about, Shane states he does not think he has heard about them before. Hearing they work overseas, Shane feels Mara must be rich. Mentioning how it is hard enough to attend university, Shane asks why do they have to clean up the leaves, and this is bullying first-year students. Envious at the girls speaking with Mara, he details to Joel how so many asked him out yet he rejected them all. If he was a girl, Shane states he would not choose someone as popular as Mara to be his boyfriend, he would pick someone who would focus on him with all their heart. Watching the exchange between Joel and Ian he asks Mara what is happening and why is there a guy trying to connect with him. Coming across the scene of Mara on top of Joel, he acts as if nothing is happening before speaking to a friend on where their room is as they pretend to be preoccupied with that. Called back, Shane casually mentions now that he thinks about it, Mara's body is amazing yet he has never seen him without a shirt on even though they share a dorm room. Shane speaks to Joel on whether he saw how incredible he was out on the field at the sports festival having taken part in events. Stating that Mara did not come back to the dorm last night, Shane comments further that he did not even text him. Unable to believe Mara skipped class like that, Shane mentions Mara did not even ask anyone to fill out a form for him to request time off from staff. Asking Joel what is wrong, Shane notes these past few days he has not been looking good. With Joel wondering why Mara has not come to class, Shane states it has only been a few days and does he miss him that much. Surprised Mara has not been replying to Joel's messages, Shane says he was messaging him not too long ago. Helping Joel to feel better since Mara hung up on him, Shane provides an example that he does not pick up any calls when he is on the toilet. If he does not believe him, next time Joel can call him when he is pooping and he will hang up for sure. To help him feel better, Shane questions if Joel is free tonight so they can go to the arcade and have fun. Sneezing, Shane remarks it has been so cold lately and thinks a lot of people have been getting sick. Still feeling ill when Joel has recovered, Shane envies people who are healthy. Wanting to try the candy Shirley offers, Shane wonders is the flavor cucumber.
Xi Yu-er[]
The author of an article title The Truth About Nightmares - Dream Demons Causing Mischief. Where the title is suspicious, more so when found amongst other dubious articles online, Xi Yu-er's knowledge about dream demons is correct in that they exist and are involved with nightmares. Whatever Xi's view that was detailed in the article, dream demons eat nightmares not to create mischief but for sustenance.
Red haired friend[]
Keen for Mara and Joel to join them in karaoke, he is also friends with Shirley and Shane. Announcing that he is going up next, he states others should clap for him as they did for Mara. He is with Shane when they come across Mara on top of Joel.
Lecturer[]
Announcing that today's assignment will be done in groups, he details the list of groups have been posted and they have twenty minutes. They are to find their group members and discuss the assignment amongst each other. Hearing that Joel's name is not on the list, with Mara requesting to let him be in the same group as him, the lecturer agrees to that.
Xi Yuer[]
A name on Joel's computer, who also likes a photo of him and Mara.
Joel's Aunt[]
Seeing a photo of Joel and Mara she comments on the beautiful people and beautiful scenery.
Aki[]
Luo Xiaoqing[]
Along with Shirley and Mara, with Joel he is to interview people for the group assignment.
Chen Zhihao[]
Tasked with data arrangement.
Xiong Jing[]
In charge of making the powerpoint.
Kang Yu[]
Along with Lan he is to present.
Lan Ye[]
Chosen with Kang to present.
Yasmine/Ying[]
Joel's cousin who is addressed as sister Yang. Seeing his computer, Yasmine tells Joel good job that he has already made a whole list of friends. Informing him that the fruit sent from their hometown is in the fridge, Yasmine reminds him to eat some. Also, Joel is to talk more with his parents about how he is doing at school since his mom keeps calling her every day to ask about him. Noticing it, Yasmine questions the protective talisman that Joel got with his mom after asking for blessings on the mountain. Having heard that his illness has not gotten any better despite years of treatment, Yasmine speaks how after coming back from the mountain it is gradually improving. Asking if it actually works, and hearing it does, Yasmine considers it really is god's work. Wanting to ask for blessings too, Yasmine answers she has no illness, she just wants a lot of things. Announcing she will be going back now, Yasmine states if Joel needs anything then to call her, or he can come find her next door where he should not try carrying everything by himself. Viewing Joel and Mara in a photo online she comments who is that handsome man. Calling him to her house as she is so scared, her urgent matter was that her plush pig was chewed up by a dog so can Joel hurry up and help her fix it. Commenting that Joel's clay sculptures are amazing, Yasmine wonders has he thought about making more and selling them. Understanding that Joel is so happy he finally made some friends, the next time they come over, Yasmine says to let her know as she wants to meet them too. Thanking Joel for getting her something at café Eden, Yasmine parts with the words that she is going to class now. Eating with Joel she is asked for advice on how to cheer up a friend. Questioning if Mara has anything he particularly likes, Yasmine suggests maybe a small gift would make him feel better. Usually when people receive something they like, it helps improve their mood.
Mara's Uncle[]
Speaking with Mara over the phone and remarking that little Kui actually called, with him at once meaning to hang up, Mara's Uncle states to not say that. Saying for them to talk instead, he continues maybe he can help. Commenting it is rare for hypnosis to not work on a human, Mara's Uncle questions if little Kui is having trouble hunting. Insisting he was just joking, he details there are three possibilities. The first is that the human is inherently resistant to hypnosis. Second, the person is not human. Third, that human is carrying a protective talisman or something similar. Answering there is a difference between a protective talisman and an exorcism talisman, Mara's Uncle explains exorcism ones are posted inside of buildings and are able to weaken and neutralize the effects of demons within a certain range. Then, protective talismans have a designated person to protect thus can be carried around. While Mara's Uncle would like to discuss how it has been a long time since Mara has come back, he is cut off. Finding a dream demon he knows at the window to his office, Mara's Uncle responds by picking up the phone for security, in the context of dealing with a nuisance. Having a document titled Western Region Sleeping Operation on his desk, he also works with secretary Huang in an office based environment. After hearing Mara did not accidentally ingest the appetite potion rather was drugged and that he wants to kill who was responsible, Mara's Uncle avows he will help him clean up afterwards. With the appetite potion a potential tool against them, Mara's Uncle will send people to investigate Ian who used one to undermine a dream demon. Registering that Mara might have made a move on any humans in his state, Mara's Uncle updates his course to send people to get rid of Ian immediately. Questioning if Mara is getting close to the humans again, he then summons Huang to look into two people (Ian as planned, and also Joel who Mara is getting close to). Having found information on Ian he hands it to Mara. Then addressing should Mara not be back in school, Mara's Uncle proceeds to ask whether it is because of Joel. Affirming he is not getting involved, Mara's Uncle just wants to understand the humans that are getting close to his nephew.
Uncle[]
Addressed as Uncle by Mara after they meet, he assumes his human appearance around them, and demon form accordingly depending on who is around. Observing Mara and Joel in the cinema, he meets them physically in the snack street. Walking into Joel just as he was turning, to create the impression he spilt chips over him, Uncle questions does Joel not look in front of him. Speaking how his white shirt has been stained, Uncle states it definitely cannot be washed off and what is Joel going to do about this. Mentioning that this shirt cost him a few hundreds, Uncle asks how is he supposed to remember how much he paid for it. Moreover he is in a hurry right now, so Uncle suggests they exchange their WeChat and he will get back to him after looking for the price at home. Handed money by Mara, as he walks away with Joel, he remarks such an impolite brat then produces some purple streams of magic. With this having no effect, Uncle comments that kid from the Mara family is as sharp as ever. Having been watching them from a rooftop, Uncle flies to Mara's location to comment on the strange sight of someone being alone here. Taunting that it looks like he did not get to eat his meal, Uncle speaks of a rumor going around about a dream demon who is dominating this region. Wondering who it might be, Uncle admits he has been observing him for quite a while but it seems like he has not even noticed since he has been focusing so hard on that human who is guaranteed to have nightmares every night. Ordering Mara to stop ignoring him, Uncle asserts he is still as arrogant as usual. It was too bad, he was this close to getting that human's contact info. When mentioning the human that even young master Mara cannot get his hands on results in his power being generated, Uncle jokes about giving up, where he does not want to die so young. Asking for Mara's Uncle's number since it was blocked, flying to his office, he shares with him news that the witch is starting to release 'the entrusted quota.' Asking if Mara's Uncle did not want a spot on that list, when questioned if it is not himself who wanted such a spot on the list, he speaks how he is seen through right away. Proposing a deal, if Mara's Uncle can get him a spot on that list, he then changes to protesting that he and Mara are not paying attention to him. Hearing Ian has not told anyone that Mara is a dream demon, Uncle remarks probably because no one would believe him even if he said it. Thinking highly of demon's appearances, Uncle feels that it helps them blend into human society, yet also means it is easy for them to let their guards down, and a lot of dream demons can fall prey to clever tactics.
Dream Demon[]
Watching Joel, and confronted by Mara for doing so, alarmed, he questions who he is. Stating he has his sights set on this prey first, at being told he is new to the city so does not know who Mara is, he orders him to shut his damn mouth before intending to show him who is really the trash here. Beaten, he understands this is Mara's part of the city but thinks for him to just wait. Joined by three other dream demons, he brandishes demonic energy while speaking to Mara how he took care of him well last night. Asking what his name was again, he professes his memory to be so bad, he can never remember the name of trash. Claiming to be a kind person, if Mara is willing to kneel down and apologize to him, they could consider going lighter on him. Although prepared to fight and having back-up, this dream demon falls to Mara again.
Ian Chung[]
An upperclassman in his second year who studies e-commerce, who is a member of the student council. Ian boldly approaches Joel to ask if he can add him online. Pleased to have done so, Ian affirms Joel's's face mask is cute. Sending him a message and calling him cutie, Ian asks if Joel wants to go out with him. Meeting Joel again outside café Eden, Ian speaks how he is disappointed he blocked him, yet he knows it was not specifically him. Suggesting they follow each other on social media, Ian wonders why Joel is taking off all of a sudden. Appearing remorseful, Ian questions is it because he came on too strong before, where he did not realize it would scare him off. As a token of his apology, Ian states to let him take Joel out to eat. Claiming to feel really bad, Ian adds to let him make it up to him. With Shirley arriving, Ian comments it looks like she has got plans. Asking where they are going, Ian requests if he can tag along. After Shirley calls Mara and says to Joel for them to wait inside, Ian addresses her directly and states it is none of her business, so can she stop interfering. Physically taking ahold of Joel's arm, Ian mentions how about he let him treat him to something here. Not overly daunted by Mara's arrival, Ian discusses how he does not even have his contact so when was he told to stay away. Taking Joel's latte order to him at café Eden, Ian puts on a pitiful exhibit as he explains it was wrong of him to keep bothering before, he does not really know how to socialize with people. Passing his latte, Ian affirms if Joel still thinks he is annoying then he will not bother him anymore. After Mara arrives, Ian details how he was speaking to Joel, and it is impolite to interrupt other people's conversations. Having anticipated Mara's arrival to begin with, Ian had mixed in appetite potion into the drinks he brought over to Joel, so that when that was given to Mara he would be affected. Smirking at it taking effect, Ian observes what occurs.
Liang[]
Teacher Liang had liked Joel's image of an Autumn leaf.
Shirley's Friend[]
In a group project with Shirley, she also discusses with her whether Joel is cool or cute. Spotting him with Ian, she asks isn't that Joel. After moving away from Ian, she joins Shirley along with Mara and Joel for karaoke. Having fallen asleep due to Mara's magic, waking to learn of a school meeting, she says there is nothing they can do and they should head back.
Huang[]
Informing Mara's Uncle that he has repaired the window, Huang states he will take his leave now. Questioning if he called for him, Huang is tasked with investigating two people. Huang had messaged Mara on whether he was not at school.
Pauline[]
Someone who had sent an emoji to Mara's phone.
Mara's Friend[]
Arriving with Mara at the arcade, he says for them to go kill some zombies. Stating they have to wait since there is someone inside, he then enquires if Mara is in a bad mood since he is not talking much. Hearing kind of, he affirms for them to just have fun and forget about the unhappy things. Seeing that Mara knows Jin, he is struck at the latter's demeanor and more so at being looked at by him. Asking Shane if it is his fault for stealing Mara from Jin, he is glad they are good when they exit. After the interaction he whispers to Shane what Mara and Jin's relationship is. Later, he mentions for them to get a drink before asking if Shane wants to come with them.
Teacher Huang[]
Teaching Joel as a child within his room, with the class over, she asked if he did not want to rest when he intended to complete his homework. Stating that it was good to study hard, she added that he still needed to rest. Guiding him to go outside and play, added for Joel to remember to relax. Speaking that she was going now, Huang said she would see him tomorrow.
Doctor[]
Working at the university that Joel and Mara attends, she shares the former has a fever of 101.3°F. Questioning if Joel wants to get an injection or pills, she follows up that he still needs a shot for his fever and it will be administered on his buttocks. With this done, she says for Jin to remember to take the meds according the schedule.
Penelope[]
In her demon form with Mara's Uncle, she asks if cousin Mara is okay. Interested in seeing human settings, Penelope has many questions for what locations are.
Story[]
Joel afflicted by nightmares
While Mara Kui is thought highly of in class, he is a dream demon who has recently got his eyes on a new target, Joel Lin, the sick, expressionless loner who postponed attending school. Employing magic to try and induce sleep, Mara finds the building repels the casting. Accordingly, Mara attempts to befriend who he regards as a meal.[1] Finding himself on top of a building, Joel finds Mara appearing as a demon before realizing he must be dreaming. Waking, Joel has a video call with his mother and father. While his mother is keen for him to be prepared, Joel's father reminds her he is a college student now. Arriving on campus, Joel is handed his books before bumping into Mara who he recognizes as resembling the person in his dream. Entering the lecture theatre, Joel's efforts to make friends fails and he sits alone until Mara joins him and they befriend one another.
Mara befriends Joel in the lecture hall
Messaging his parents, Joel contemplates if Mara counts as a friend made. Passing an alleyway, Joel wonders what was that sound before considering if he heard wrong. Within the alley, Mara has consumed a dream from someone who is unconscious. While he finds the dream to be disgusting, Mara feels there is someone who seems promising.[2] Having been noticed, Mara lies that the person is lying on the ground because he thinks he is drunk. As Shane takes the other youth in, Mara can make out the likelihood that they would have a dream or nightmare, depicted in the form of statistics that appear with magic. Running before being grasped by multiple black shadowy hands, Joel is unable to make out what the demon who has him is saying. Awakening in bed, Joel sees headlines involving a man haunted by nightmares for ten years, where the cause was unexpectedly related to being single. Other nightmare related headings are viewed, one story authored by Xi Yu-er mentions demon dreams.
Claiming to have the same class
In the lecture hall, Joel reacts to Mara's presence. With Shirley and Shane inviting Joel to eat with them, Mara can make out the 100% chance of him having a dream and nightmare.[3] By night time, Mara has flown to Joel's studio block yet finds he cannot use his magic when he draws too close. Dejected, as Mara walks with Shane his mood is asked about, before they notice Joel. After saying he is heading to his marine civilization elective, Mara professes he also has that class so joins Joel in the lecture hall. Dreaming every day for a month is fine and all, but for all of them to be nightmares is extremely rare. While Joel is thinking should he start a conversation, Mara is considering his certainty of having nightmares. After proposing for him to fall asleep since he must have woken up early, when Joel affectionately feels Mara is worried about him sleeping so is a good person, Mara thinks he will have to force him to go to sleep. Sure that Joel must be feeling sleepy after producing a pink sleep inducing smoke, Mara finds Joel can not only resist it, but can see it. As the lecturer commences class, Mara smirks at the lack of effect his magic has on Joel and is determined to devour him.[4]
Walking back after karaoke
As a child, Joel was taken to the No.2 People's Hospital with his mother, and alone from other children he had a dream that was unattainable. Presently, Mara is asked whether he looked at the group announcements, there is a class gathering tonight. It is karaoke once more, and friends mention how Mara is a good singer where the girls in class said they will not go if he isn't. When invited to the karaoke gathering, Joel shouts he will attend. There, after Joel states he does not know how to sing, Mara says he will duet with him if he picks a song. After Shirley and Shane ask to exchange contact details with Joel he becomes tearful. As Mara comforts him, others gathered assume he is drunk.[5] Where Mara was hoping for Joel to pass out, after he cried, Mara takes to helping him walk home, yet is frustrated that Shane is there as well. Mara asks Joel what floor and apartment does he live in. While Shane comments on Joel's apartment, Mara contemplates it seems that this power only nullifies the dream magic itself, while he can physically enter. Noticing a talisman on the wall that repels demons, Mara finds it emits an electrical charge when he attempts to touch it. When Shane heads to the bathroom, Mara finds Joel awaken who licks his thumb. Leaving with Shane, when Joel wakes up he realizes Mara must have remembered everything.[6]
Mara falls asleep waiting for Joel to do so
Bound to a tree, Joel awakens from his dream to visualize Mara. While messaging one another, Joel meets Mara in a convenience store. Having acquired ice cream, eating it together, Joel begins coughing before dropping his cone. After getting him another, Mara questions if he is doing anything since it is the weekend. Having chosen a boring appearing movie, Mara wills Joel to fall asleep in the cinema yet one hour later he is wondering if he is really immune to hypnosis. Where Mara is the one to nod off, Joel positions his head to rest on his shoulder.[7] After pretending to be asleep, with the movie over, Joel and Mara come across two girls who know them. Commenting how Joel only stuck to Mara and did not want to let go of him, the girls also add that in the class group chat, everybody was talking about him. As they walk, Mara is greeted by many people, something Joel comments on. Detailing he is not good at communicating with others, Joel informs Mara that he is his first friend. Piquing his interest by offering to show him how to make more friends, Mara is doing this to learn more about Joel to increase the chances of being able to eat his dreams.[8]
Arranging them to be in a group together
A lecturer announces that today's assignment will be done in groups, and when Mara questions what group Joel is in he replies his name is not on the list. Speaking to the lecturer, Mara says why does he not let Joel be in the same group as him. Remembering some tips to make friends he was given by Mara and enacting them, Joel practices rule #1 by smiling at others, which has a chilling effect on the group on account of how menacing it appears. With group members dividing tasks amongst themselves, after Shirley states she would like to interview people, Joel recalls rule #2. Where this involves inviting himself into a conversation, Joel slams his hand on the table to announce he would also like to interview others. As the group speaks lively, Joel envisions rule #3, that he has Mara who will be by his side to help. At home after Yasmine comments on Joel's friend list, she hears how the talisman that helped him with his illness is part of a set. On a rooftop, Mara speaks to his uncle over the phone to ask how a human could be immune to hypnosis. Answering there are three possibilities, Mara's uncle explains the first is that the human is inherently resistant to hypnosis. With the second reason involving the person is not human, Mara affirms he is definitely human. The third is that the human is carrying a protective talisman of which the effect can resist some types of magic. When Mara questions if there are any differences between a protective talisman and an exorcism talisman, Mara's uncle replies there is. Having never paid attention to whether Joel has a protective talisman that can be carried around, Joel concludes there is a good chance he is not inherently resistant, otherwise, there would be no reason to have a talisman at home. His next task is to remove a talisman if it exists to make the following step easier.[9]
Intervening to help Joel
While Mara is conducting interviews, Shirley's toy bear is repaired by Joel using a needle and thread in his bag after it was accidentally ripped on a tree branch. Taking the chance to check what else he has, Mara confirms Joel indeed has a talisman in his bag. Where he is zapped by it, Mara considers he needs to separate the bag from Joel. Suggesting they go to the snack street, Mara details the foods on display to Joel. While Mara is thinking how he can get Joel to stay with him until late at night, he is offered some of the chips Joel is eating where he assumed he was staring because of that. As Mara heads to get drinks, Joel is drawn into an exchange involving him giving his WeChat to a man who he spilt food over. Coming to his aid, Mara takes Joel away, and notices the stream of magic directed at them from who he addressed as Uncle. With this nullified, Mara registers the dream demon targeting Joel, before telling him that boys must protect themselves when they are in public.[10]
Handling other dream demons as competition
Heading to the Internet cafe, Joel receives a call from Yasmine urging him to come to her house. As Mara says for Joel to head back, he notices and confronts another dream demon observing him. Judging that he is new to the area, Mara beats the dream demon and explains this area around the university is his territory. Having arrived back, Joel finds Yasmine's urgent matter involves her plush toy being chewed by a dog. Having posted a photo of food he has made, when it is liked by Mara, he is invited by Joel to his where he will cook for him. In the lecture hall, Shirley and Shane learn about Joel's cooking ability. Asking if the offer still stands, Mara questions is tomorrow afternoon alright as there is no class then. While Mara attempts to say it is nothing when Shane asks if they are planning something behind his back, Joel announces they can come over to his as well. As Joel is considering the ingredients he should buy, Mara is tracking the dream demon from earlier. Finding him backed by three others, Mara defeats the dream demons effortlessly, before he is found by Joel.[11]
Finding the lights pretty, Mara has seen them many times
Sure he misheard what he said, Joel is led away by Mara from the scene before feeling faint from walking too fast. Where Joel finds the city lights to be so pretty, Mara has seen them so many times. Inspired to to take a picture, Mara says he will take one for Joel. Since Joel wants to take one of them together, doing so, he is happy to see his relatives like the photo of him and Mara. Having lunch that day, Shirley and Shane are interested in discussing Mara's family. After mentioning they live overseas it is assumed he is rich, and Joel is reminded of the money he was to return to Mara that he gave to the Uncle. When Joel would like to return the favor, Mara did not think he would agree so readily and thinks he should make good use of this opportunity.[12] With Joel showing some clay sculptures he made, others are impressed with the creations. While Shirley and Shane take an interest in a drama on TV, Joel would like to give his favorite sculpture to his favorite person, Mara. Observing it alone on a rooftop, Mara ignores Uncle's words when he joins him in his demon form. It is only when Uncle mentions the human that even Mara cannot get his hands on does he react by unfurling streams of magic. Only pretending to be fazed, Uncle requests that Mara give him his biological uncle's number. Seeing the humans around him as food, Mara feels once he graduates everything will go back to normal and he will not have anymore contact with them. Having finished painting sculptures of his friends, Joel tells Yasmine their names.[13]
Seeing the message from Ian asking Joel out
Cleaning leaves before the school festival, Joel is approached by Ian Chung who asks for his number. After he departs, Joel's friends gather round to see the message he has been sent where Ian has asked if he wants to go out with him. Where Mara intends to talk to him, he presents a story to his friends that this idiot upperclassman was bothering him at the beginning of the school year. Since Mara suggests that Joel avoids him, he will listen to him. After messaging Ian on Jin's phone to warn him to stay away from his target, Mara blocks the number. An image of an Autumn leaf is shared online.[14] As a child attending school, Joel experienced bouts of coughing before blood was produced. In hospital it was commented how this time he did not even last for a week. For his recovery it was best to avoid a hectic environment so Joel's schooling was advised to be put on hold.
Hearing Joel would like to return to the sports festival
With the annual university sports festival presently underway, where others are enthusiastic, Mara finds it boring so takes a walk. Wondering whether others are tired from supporting the event, Mara finds Joel beside him. Answering he is not enjoying the festival, Mara explains they hold this every year so he is probably just bored of it. After accidentally being drenched by a hose, they are near Mara's dorm so he says for them to go and change there. Fumbling with the clothes, Mara and Joel observe one another's bodies.[15] With Shane and a friend coming across them, they head to their rooms having pretended not to see anything. Ordering them back as it was a wrong impression, Mara says they just walked in at the wrong time, while Shane thought he finally came out of the closet. As they speak, Joel notices what he assumes is a tattoo on Mara's back, yet wonders if he is imagining that it is moving. Seeing a medication packet fall out, Mara asks Joel about that. While he thinks Joel's illness may be more serious than he thought, Mara can perceive him as healthy. Further, he is appearing as suitable for feeding on so he must be fine. Noticing that Joel does not have his charm on him, Mara thinks maybe now is a perfect chance to feed on Joel's dreams. Where Joel would like to return to the festival, Mara reconsiders. Having returned to the event, Joel finds he is out of water, and noticing, Mara offers him his drink.[16]
Shirley helping Joel when Ian is there
Outside Cafe Eden, Joel hands Yasmine a bag before she heads to class. When Joel is found by Ian he remembers what Mara said and attempts to leave. Shirley is in the area with a friend and sees this, so pretends to have arrived to see Joel in a planned meeting. Asking if he can come along, Ian Chung introduces himself, yet to prevent this, Shirley calls Mara over the phone. With his arrival, Ian questions when was he told to stay away. Placing his hand between them, Joel takes Mara's arm and walks while motioning for Shirley to do the same. When Shirley details how she and her friend were off to karaoke for the afternoon, she questions if Mara and Joel would like to come.[17] After the very pink room is noted, Mara states for Joel to put his bag down and rest. While Joel reminds Mara he cannot sing, he does have one song, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
A chance to eat Joel's dream
Praising him after the performance, Mara then sings a song, a love related one where he is looking at Joel. Afterwards, Mara claims Joel has an eye lash in his face. Moving to tend to it, and gesturing with his hand, Mara has Shirley and her friend fall asleep, along with Joel.[18] Considering how the ratio of dreaming to nightmares can change over months, with Joel's rates at 100%, Mara feels this is every dream demon's fantasy where this is a delicious meal that is very hard to come by. Deeming it incredible, Mara contemplates if there is anyone else in this city with a similar ratio to Joel all the dream demons will go crazy. Snoring, and Mara regarding Joel's looks delay the feeding. With the phone ringing, Shirley wakes to ask what Mara is doing. The phone call involves a school meeting they are to head to. When Mara wakes Joel, he is pushed away before being asked is this not a dream.[19] When experiencing the dream, the demon was present, hence Joel's surprise when Mara appeared before him in the karaoke room. At the lecture hall, Shane mentions how Mara has been very moody ever since the sudden class meeting. While Joel thinks it could be because he pushed him away, he later speaks to Yasmine about how he can make a friend feel better, who suggests getting a gift. On a rooftop, Mara drops someone having consumed a dream, one he finds disgusting. Messaged by Joel on what he likes, Mara guesses he wants to get him a gift to make him feel better, where his surface emotions were obvious to him earlier. Although Mara feels someone caring about him isn't so bad, he messages Joel to say recently he has been bothered about something but after hearing from him he feels a lot better. To himself, Mara thinks aloud if Joel really wants to make him happy then let him eat his dreams. Thinking why not take this chance to ask him to come out, when Joel calls to say he is free, Mara considers he took the bait.[20]
Unaware Ian has placed an appetite potion in Mara's drink
Within café Eden at night, Joel orders two lattes and waits for Mara to arrive from classes. After Ian joins him and speaks how he always wanted to make friends but ended up making everyone unhappy, Joel is reminded of his own experiences so feels sympathetic. When Mara arrives who is irate with Ian being there, Joel mentions the latte he got since he appeared to be getting angry. Saying for them to go and they can drink as they walk, Mara begins experiencing a violet hazed dizziness as he wonders why is there appetite potion mixed into the latte. The appetite potion will increase a dream demon's appetite to ravenous proportions, and Mara in this state can discern Ian's chances of dreaming to be 10%, and the possibility of a nightmare to be 0%. With Joel checking if he is okay, Mara sees his percentages and wants to eat the nightmare.[21] At this time Mara's childhood is glimpsed, where he wanted to enter a human school, to hunt. Mara considered sweet talk made it easy to lead people into the lion's den; he never had a prey escape. Absorbing the rare opportunity to meet a prey with 100% possibility for nightmares in Joel, he wants to devour it. When Joel questions what he wants to eat, Mara can regain his senses to think this potion is too strong. Replying he is not feeling good, Mara speaks for them to meet another time. Noticing that the pink smoke appeared again, Joel sees everyone in the cafe has fallen asleep, before he is pinned down by Mara. Hearing he wants to eat his nightmares, Joel is unsure what he means.[22] Feeling Mara is drunk from coffee, an incident occurs affecting both of them which brings Mara back to his senses. After he leaves, Joel cannot see where he went outside, and Ian finds what transpired to be interesting.
Discussing Ian and the appetite potion used against dream demons
Entering through the window, the man who was called Uncle by Mara says hello to Mara's uncle and mentions he has heard the witch is starting to release 'the entrusted quota' and did he not want a spot on that list. With it apparent that it is actually Uncle who desires his own name on the list, he proposes a deal to Mara's uncle. Their conversation is interrupted by Mara who arrives to request an antidote. With Joel alone, Ian approaches to ask where Mara is.[23] Secretary Huang has repaired the window Mara broke upon entering the office. Mara's uncle praises him before asking Mara if he accidentally ingested it or did someone purposely drug him. Where Mara wants to kill Ian who is responsible, Mara's uncle attests he will help him clean up afterwards. Detailing that Ian knew he was a dream demon from the moment they met, yet he did not tell anyone, Mara means to deal with him later, but explaining this to Jin takes precedent. Remarking on demon's success in blending into human society, yet how such ease can also result in them lowering their guard, Uncle regards something like an appetite potion to be a dangerous tactic that they can fall prey to, so it will be strictly managed. With it raised whether Mara made a move on any humans when drugged, Mara's uncle means to send people to get rid of Ian immediately, yet Mara is against this. After Uncle presses Mara's uncle to start worrying about the culprit who drugged his nephew, he calls for Huang to investigate two people.
Thinking of Joel after pinning him under the effects of a potion
Asking why the demon in his dream keeps pestering him, Joel wakes to recall last night and whether there is a connection between his nightmares and the ones Mara said tasted so good.[24] With no one having heard from Mara, when Shirley questions if he asked for time off, Shane does not think so as he has to fill out a form and give it to staff. Yesterday at 9.30pm, Joel had text Mara to ask how he was feeling, with another message at 10.45pm. At 9.55am Joel had raised how Mara had not come to class. Within his apartment, Mara has only considered Joel's messages, where he has decided to continue to play dead. Intending to tell other people who have messaged that he is fine, Mara finds he has accidentally hung up after Joel calls. From his view, Joel feels Mara will not talk to him, before becoming super worried at him possibly having been kidnapped where he is being prevented from speaking. The reality is, Mara has never dealt with anything like this as he continues to wonder how he will explain all this to Joel. With four days in total having passed where Mara has not come to university, Joel is worried about Mara having not been able to contact him. With Shane remarking that Mara was messaging him, and Shirley being aware that he had to leave for a few days, Joel is dispirited at having no contact. While Shane and Shirley attempt to console Joel, they discuss amongst themselves why Mara has been dissing him like that. When Shane wonders if he should ask Mara what is going on, Shirley answers yes since Joel is still bothered. Asking if he is free tonight, Shane suggests to Joel they go to the arcade and have fun tonight. While initially against it, Joel heads to the arcade with Shirley and Shane, where Mara arrives as well.[25]
Seeing each other at the arcade, Joel speaks like a jilted lover
In his office, Mara's uncle handed Mara information gathered on Ian. Providing a dossier on Joel as well, Mara's uncle questioned is he the reason Mara did not want to head back to school. After ordering his Uncle to not interfere, Mara received a message asking if he wanted to come to the arcade. Arriving with a friend, Mara then finds Joel there. While Shane is surprised Mara is there, Joel is upset when questioning why he was being ignored. Looking to Mara's friend then asking why he was having fun with other people, others gathered around view the spectacle as one involving an affronted girlfriend aggrieved that Mara was with another girl. Placing his hands on his shoulders, Mara says for them to talk inside, while Shane and Mara's friend thinks this is the first time they have seen him panic. At first thinking to give an excuse, when Joel asks if he did something wrong, Mara tells the truth that he did not know how to explain what happened. Explaining that on the night he went to his relatives for the medicine, Mara also did not mean to leave Jin alone. Hearing he was worried having not heard from him, Mara considers that Joel was the one he unwittingly assaulted by pinning him down. Where Joel is the victim here, Mara processes yet he was worried about him. Feeling he is a sweet kid, Mara feels a jerk for making him sad before answering he would never dislike Joel.[26]
Gathered at the pub
Exiting the booth having made up, Shane asks if they are good. With Joel tugging on Mara's shirt for them to play a game over there, Mara's friend asks Shane what is their relationship, although Shane does not get what he means. With Joel finding the squirrel plushies in a claw machine to be adorable, when Mara is looked at he states he cannot guarantee that he can catch anything. Acquiring one each for Joel and Shirley, at noting the former smiled, Mara contemplates his expressions. With Joel winning a rabbit that he gives to Mara, between them and Shirley, they have two prizes each. With Mara's friend mentioning for them to go to the pub, there at the Showering Goose, those gathered play a card game. Leaving to take Joel back, Mara finds he hugs him. Since Joel has fallen asleep, Mara assumes his demon form to fly. Viewing the 100% chance of having a nightmare, Mara thinks for Joel to have a good rest tonight as he flies him through the night sky.[27]
Concern for Joel when it's clear he has a fever
On campus, finding that Joel is being more clingy than usual, even going to the rest room when he does, Mara wonders if it is because he ignored him. Sleepy, Joel explains his dream wasn't a good one, where it involved Mara as a demon that he does not detail. Heading to the cafeteria with Shane, when Mara heads to puke up the food that he cannot actually digest, Joel has followed him. Concerned if he is unwell, Joel offers to head to the pharmacy downstairs to get some medicine. Mara notes Joel is worried about something small like this.[28] Homeschooled by teacher Huang as a child, after a lesson Joel observed children outside arranging to play with new toys. While he was encouraged to go outside as well, Joel was jealous and wished he had someone to play with too. Walking though the college grounds, Shane sneezes, and Joel feels he is coming down with a fever where the weather is getting colder. When Shirley finds Joel is burning up, while he does not want to go to the infirmary and instead stay in class, Mara says he will go with him. Checking to see that his energy levels are below normal, in the nurse's room, Joel has a 101.3°F high fever. With the doctor stating Joel needs a shot in the buttocks for the fever, with that done, he is to head home and recover. After Mara encourages him to rest while he means to return to class, Joel envisions himself as a child before saying he does not want to stay home by himself.[29] While Mara is thinking whether he wants him to stay and keep him company, Joel decides Mara needs to go back to class and he cannot waste anymore of his time. Speaking that he can go ahead back to class, Joel thanks Mara for keeping him company. Stating he does not want to go back to class, Mara asks if he can stay here with Joel.
Watching a movie together
Staying at Joel's apartment, while Mara feels insecure since the talisman there blocks all his powers, he considers it is something that makes Joel feel safe. Asked if he wants to watch a movie, Mara remembers the cases where Joel became clingy and direct in speaking where it makes him feel kind of shy. After mentioning how massaging Joel's buttocks might help after the injection, while watching the movie, Mara places the cover over him. When Joel awakens, Mara mentions he is already watching the second movie. With Joel having had enough sleep, Mara checks his fever before saying it is about time for dinner.[30] While Joel is energized when out walking, having acquired some candies, Shirley shares them with him and Shane. Meanwhile Mara thinks of all the people he knows he is only close with these three. Finding Joel presenting him a candy to try, Mara thinks is he feeding him again. Eating it, while Joel considers how he touched his lips, Mara is thinking as he cannot taste anything he will just say a random flavor. Seeing some limited edition winter ice cream flavors, Joel has recently recovered from his illness so is unable to have a full one, yet has a bite of Mara's ice cream when offered. With Shirley commenting how well Mara has been taking care of Joel, Shane asks if he is his mom or something. In the face of the sentiment, to himself, Mara thinks he is only doing this for Joel to recover so he can enjoy a good meal. When demons feed, a human's energy level decreases where too much could result in a fatality. To have Joel's energy level return to normal is all it is, and Mara thinks other than that, these humans do not mean anything to him.
It is recollected how someone shouted they were wrong about Mara, and a female mentioned did she not tell him not to get close to humans. After that, Mara wonders has he been too close to them recently. Asked what is wrong by Joel, ahead, Mara notices ahead that it is Ian. Having finally found him, Mara wonders where he was hiding before. Telling the others he has got to do something, Mara states he will leave first. Recognizing Ian and wondering if Mara is going after him, Joel also shares he is leaving.[31]
Images[]
References[]
- ↑ Prologue
- ↑ Chapter 1
- ↑ Chapter 2
- ↑ Chapter 3
- ↑ Chapter 4
- ↑ Chapter 5
- ↑ Chapter 6
- ↑ Chapter 7
- ↑ Chapter 8
- ↑ Chapter 9
- ↑ Chapter 10
- ↑ Chapter 11
- ↑ Chapter 12
- ↑ Chapter 13
- ↑ Chapter 14
- ↑ Chapter 15
- ↑ Chapter 16
- ↑ Chapter 17
- ↑ Chapter 18
- ↑ Chapter 19
- ↑ Chapter 20
- ↑ Chapter 21
- ↑ Chapter 22
- ↑ Chapter 23
- ↑ Chapter 25
- ↑ Chapter 25
- ↑ Chapter 26
- ↑ Chapter 27
- ↑ Chapter 28
- ↑ Chapter 29
- ↑ Chapter 30
Wiki Link[]
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