The seventh episode of Season 2 of "The Sandman" kicks off with an encounter between Morpheus and Destiny. Despite Morpheus's grave sin of slaying his own kin, even as his son pleaded for mercy, his punishment stands as the eradication of his existence. Faced with the prospect of annihilation, Morpheus implores Destiny for assistance. However, Destiny reveals that Morpheus's book lies blank, indicating that his future hinges solely on his actions and the whims of the Fates.
Morpheus then seeks audience with the Fates, also known as the Three Sisters. He lays bare his obligations and underscores the necessity of his continued existence for the welfare of his realm. Yet, escape remains elusive, as an unending litany of adversaries, from Calliope to Desire, clamor for him to answer for his deeds.
Meanwhile, on Earth, the Pope's groundbreaking decision to ordain women as priests sends shockwaves across the globe. Unbeknownst to many, this seismic shift is orchestrated by Puck and Loki, who are now an item and wreaking havoc with their romantic escapades. Morpheus calls in a favor owed to him for his earlier rescue of Loki. Though Loki attempts to wriggle out of his commitment, Morpheus firmly asserts his authority.
Loki, chafing under the yoke of servitude, laments that he has merely traded one master, Odin, for another, Morpheus. Puck, ever the schemer, suggests a loophole: do as Morpheus commands, but not when he expects it. This plan promises to sow chaos and free Loki from his bonds.
Elsewhere in the Dreaming, its inhabitants rack their brains for a way to keep the Fates at bay. Yet, Morpheus appears to have come to terms with his fate, confessing that there is naught to be done and designating Daniel, Lyta's son, as his successor.
Rose and Lyta, who have been nurturing Daniel, pay a visit to Unity's London abode. Puck, donning the disguise of Simon, the valet, cleverly persuades the women to entrust Daniel to his care while they enjoy a dinner outing.
Nuala yearns for Morpheus to engage in battle, yet she acknowledges their obligation to adhere to the law. She ponders the origin of these rules and proposes seeking guidance from their makers. Apparently, these creators are none other than Time and Night, the esteemed parents of the Endless.
Morpheus first ventures to see Time, who grumbles about being visited solely when his offspring require something. A father both icy and detached, Time nonetheless reveals that even if he were to send Morpheus back in time, the outcome would remain unchanged. Morpheus expresses his gratitude nonetheless; his affection for his father remains steadfast, a sentiment he has come to cherish through his encounter with Orpheus.
Next, Morpheus sets his sights on his mother, Darkness, also known as Night. Though she mirrors Time's distance and taunting demeanor, she displays a semblance of politeness. It is mainly Destiny and Delirium who visit her, with the latter constantly thirsting for her attention. She generously offers Morpheus a place in her realm, which he politely declines. She labels him selfish, reminiscing about how he once treated everyone as mere pawns. He apologizes, but even his contrition fails to sway her perception.
Returning to the Dreaming, Nuala persuades the others to train and assemble an army. Cluracan arrives with a message from Titania, who desires Nuala's return. Sensing Titania's true intentions are merely for gossip, Nuala declines. Cluracan then resolves to ask Morpheus to reconsider.
Morpheus, only wishing the best for Nuala, suggests she return to Titania's realm, fearing the Dreaming may no longer be a safe haven. Disheartened by the failure of her plan to involve the lawmakers and hurt by Morpheus' reluctance to have her by his side until the end, Nuala feels a pang of disappointment.
Lucienne offers solace to Morpheus as he recounts his disappointing reunions with his family. She reassures him that not all parents share the traits of his own and reminds him of his own prowess as a father. He confides in her, acknowledging her as a maternal figure in his life.
Elsewhere, Rose and Lyta encounter Hettie and her dogs. Their conversation about Daniel hints at an ominous tone. Lyta decides to seek clarification from Mrs. Shore, Daniel's babysitter. As expected, she finds Mrs. Shore asleep, while Puck has already abducted Daniel.
The residents of The Dreaming bid a poignant farewell to Nuala, their hearts heavy with the realization that Morpheus might soon exile them all. In a gesture of kindness, Nuala extends an invitation to the Faerie realm, should such a fate befall them. As a heartfelt token of farewell, Morpheus presents her with a delicate necklace, promising her a boon should she ever find herself in dire need.
Upon Nuala's departure, Morpheus offers the residents an escape route from their impending plight, but they steadfastly decline, their loyalty unwavering. Morpheus, while admiring their unyielding fidelity, gently reminds them that Daniel holds the mantle of their future Dream King.
The closing scene of The Sandman Season 2 Episode 7 reveals Daniel in the company of Puck and Loki, his path intertwined with enigmatic figures as he inches closer to his destined role.
