Ben - The Dreaming: Waking Hours

Benedict “Ben” grew up in Old Branch, New Jersey, and was destined for a life in the Catholic Church. To guide him toward that calling, Dream of the Endless sent the angel Jophiel and the nightmare Ruin to create a vision of Joan of Arc’s martyrdom—meant to inspire reflection on eternity and divine purpose.

However, when Ruin fell in love with Ben, he lost control of his powers and nearly destroyed the dream.

Though the vision succeeded in its purpose, Ben couldn’t forget the pain and fear he saw in Ruin’s breakdown. He longed to comfort him, but woke before he could act.

Moved by the dream, and by Ruin, Ben entered the seminary, determined to devote his life to kindness, compassion, and faith. Secretly, he also hoped the nightmare was real—and that they might one day meet again.

Despite his deep faith, Ben eventually left the seminary, realising his feelings for Ruin were stronger than his religious calling. He embraced both his Christianity and his identity as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, striving to live with love and authenticity.

A close friend of Azar, Ben, accompanied her to Heather After’s flat to offer support after the young nurse’s troubling mystical experiences there. During this visit, Ben finally met Ruin in the waking world.

He followed Ruin into the Dreaming, assuring him that leaving the Church had been his own choice—one made freely and without regret—and offering Ruin his first true experience of love and companionship.

When Dream sought to separate them, Ben stood firm, appealing to the Endless’s sense of justice and compassion. He argued that Ruin was not merely a tool but a living, feeling being deserving of love.

After a tense exchange—and a threat of imprisonment from Heather—Dream relented, allowing them to return to Earth.

Back home, Ben and Ruin began a romantic relationship and moved in together, remaining close friends with Lindy Morris, Heather, and Todd.