#i was making myself sad thinking about this intentionally silly au

[hayleysayshay]

For this highschool, I'm imagining a private school that has boarding options so they're all boarding students. Like they're all from different parts of the country but they're at this top school.

Scanlan talks big game and is flashy and cocky, and is aloof and acts like he fits in with the big rich kids at the school. He acts like nothing bothers him at all and it can be hard for the others to relate to him.

But maybe Pike realises that he actually doesn't have anyone to go home for the holidays :( he's actually at the school on a scholarship and his mother died. And then obvs she invites him round to hers and pops with Grog for the holidays.

I was thinking of like a stereotypical modern au high school vox machina where twig bitch acne ridden nerd Percy gets to take the hottest girl in the school to the prom. No one knows how he did it (it’s because of his winning personality)

[vynnyal]

Throwing random thoughts, headcanons, and a variety of pasta at the wall (but only those having to do with vessels and/or their biology this time): The Thrilling Third Installment™

...aka pretending i can be dark and dramatic jskhdfd

Thk's larger form is not the standard, but the exception. Thk was cited as being "raised and trained to prime form", which people take to mean pk assisted in the vessel's natural growth. However, that conclusion leaves a lot of unanswered questions, most important of which being “then what about Ghost?” In short, I think that train of thought is backwards. Vessels can't grow- they are ageless, and immortal. We know this due to Ghost, despite living as long if not longer than thk, being completely unchanged over the years. The only thing pk trained into "prime form" was thk’s mind and fighting prowess. Their body... well, I think it was mutated. Most likely either directly by pk, or ordered by him- and with the shenanigans happening over in the sanctum, I wouldn't be surprised if Soul was involved, too. In any case, it was in no means natural. Vessels are corpses reanimated by void; neither corpses nor void tend to make drastic changes on their own all that often. Whether pk predicted the vessel’s “issues” and intended to manually “upgrade” them from the beginning, it's hard to say. But... yeah. Unless Ghost goes out of their way to make themselves grow- if its even possible, now that pk is gone- its fairly safe to say, they never will.

...with that in mind, we are promptly gonna ignore that for the rest of this post lmaooo

Grown-up vessels wouldn't look like thk; while they are described as being raised into "prime form"... prime form, to whom? Rather than looking like an idealized pk soldier, it sounds much more fitting that they’d have an entirely different, natural adult form. Consider: their cloaks being longer and fuller, perhaps filling out into something with a more practical use to their “species”. Better yet, they could even grow up to be more beast-like. Feral vessels, YEhaW

The black egg temple is cited as being "built to sustain [vessels]", yet it can't be their lifespan that is sustained. Rather, it seems the egg is specifically designed to keep the radiance from tearing thk apart, physically and/or mentally. Ngl its p obvious, but worth noting.

Sorta-au where Ghost’s shade has 8 eyes, and/or is generally all-around more cryptid-looking.

@ the sharpshadow charm and the strange, 6-eyed creature their shade turns into: kudos to this post, they bring up something super interesting- the creature not only resembles the Shade Lord, but the lord outright becomes it during the Embrace the Void cutscene.

makes me respect the ol’ civilization a whole lot more if a single charm can turn a baby shade into a baby lord.

The concept of finding ghosts unconscious body, laying next to a corpse, while they battle in their dreams. Alt: when ghost enters the dream realm, their shade leaves their shell... And protects their body from harm.

If steel soul mode is taken as canon, just how did ghost and the shade meet? Alt: Ghost may never have “met” it at all, as it technically doesn’t exist in that mode- instead, its more of a metaphor than an actual entity.

What the vessels looked like- or were supposed to look like- before the void. Alt: a story following a child, alive and untouched, that somehow managed to be spared. They could even have a gender. Alt alt: the void intentionally spared them for some purpose, or even out of simple kindness- or at least, something that resembles kindness.

Re: the shade inexplicably having a nail: all the vessel's swords are crafted from “will-bearing rock”- of which i’ve come to lovingly call living stone- and as such, are of void themselves. That's how the shade seems to conjure up its own copy; it merely shapes it, from the ground, using void. And, while more of a stretch, Ghost’s nail being some sort of living stone/pale ore alloy could explain just how Ghost can do seemingly pretty crazy things with an otherwise ordinary nail. Better, while 100% a baseless hc, its material might actually enable Ghost to build it up and modify it to suite their size as they grow older. finally, a logical reason adult Ghost has an adult-sized nail-claymore. hdsfghjfghdsjf

On that same thought: Ghost outright invented the "art" of manipulating- or creating- living stone to make their nail. ...gimme a sec. The other escaped vessels have nails, too, right? Either meaning they also discovered this ability... or that theres some legitimate ground for the “vessel gang” hc. Or, yanno, i’m reading too much into Ari’s sprites but sHHhh

How did all the vessels know to race to the top? They seemed to be falling merely because they had just been born and had literal, actual baby strength; yet not only did they inexplicably risk everything competing to the top, they somehow knew death was waiting if they lost. Alt: pk just, bringing a fucking megaphone and telling them like a sports announcer.

What if Ghost made it, and instead of falling, they managed to joined thk at the lip? What would pk do? Push them off the edge??? Or just adopt them both?? Oh fuck au where they're raised as twin sacrifices. Or worse yet, they’re raised unequally, and one is trained only as an afterthought. As a backup.

Alternatively, pk keeps all the vessels au, only a few years later when they're grown. Pk now has a literal army of pure knights. Radiance is fucked.

Hm. If vessels were fully coherent entities from the moment of birth, why was there a crib in the white palace? Did... did they use it? I have a feeling team cherry made that asset before the abyss scene lmaooo alt: they did, uh, use the crib. Cue a very awkward scene of thk, clearly not a normal baby, staring at wl with like... idk, the poofy baby hat and pacifier. I can’t tell if the image is more funny or more sad rn shdfgfjsdgg

The og notes that inspired this post, in case my rambling makes more sense (and w/o the awful comic hjsfgjsdfhj): Oh oh OH i GET it now. The void is all about "will" and whatnot, right? And shades are "fragments of a lingering will"- will, like the one you leave after your death, but instead of inheritance its the vessels' desires...last regrets.... DAMN team cherry, that symbolism is clever as heck. That took me a while. Kinda funny how a will is, technically, a person's last regrets Like I knew they were last regrets but I didn't understand WHY. Duh, it's because they're literally Made Of Will. They are the vessel's "wills". I'm so stupid.

Ghost, walking thru the abyss, getting increasingly fed up / freaked out, ducking into a crack in the wall. They follow the crack into the Scream Chamber, pause, then exhale in relief that this was EXACTLY what they needed.

Ghost's shade rolling up its void-sleeves like “fuck it, ima defeat thk myself”

Why was thk's sword there? Was its pedestal decayed? Did it fall from their body? Was it place there as an afterthought, or hurriedly? alt: taking thk's sword before freeing them, but doing the mom thing like you're grounding them hdhfjchjch

I can’t believe it just occured to me now, but... as objectivley stupid as the vessel’s test was, Ghost... technically came in second place. What if that whole scene was a metaphor? Because really, it’s just too silly to take seriously. To do so isn’t too far fetched, either; many other elements in the game’s story are better taken as symbolic or metaphorical, anyways. Take the PoP cutscene- while it could’ve been a literal moment, where they just happened to find themselves standing around and took the moment to appreciate each other... imo it makes much more sense to read it as the concept of their faint ~forbidden love~ and parental pride itself. Or, better yet, the scene at the end of the 4th pantheon. Sorry, but I severely doubt that was an actual event. What I’m trying to get at is the significance of “second place” in the cutscene. My brain is too fried to chase down any other possible connections to this theme rn (if thats even what the theme is), but even without proof, the theory smooths out a few interesting tidbits related to just how Ghost could tough it out when all others failed. All except for #1, anyway. Either way I’m just happy to take this as an excuse to pretend that cutscene didn’t literally happen because like, l m a o

The story of a small group of vessels as they work together to escape hallownest. (aka the aforementioned vessel gang hc... im sure theres a more formal name but you get the idea). Its impossible to tell how long it took them to discover that near-invisible hole, the last exit remaining after the king ordered the abyss to be sealed up. Once they did, however, the remaining vessels were quick to make a desperate scramble to escape- only for the entrance to suddenly crumble shut, far, far too soon. The remaining 8 slowly made their way through deepnest, their numbers quickly dwindling as the jouney started to take its toll. The group was nearly wiped out by those terrible, spiney-legged creatures that used their own kinship against them. Only three finally escaped the deep, yet only two made it through the basin- the third, largest sibling, left to fight alone againt a hopeless battle, just to buy the others time. It was in greenpath, so close yet so far to their goal, that the second succumbed to the infection. It was a mercy killing, that nail through the heart. The last, after all of that, finally made their way to the very precipice of howling cliffs, hesitating for just a moment to gaze out upon the still-fresh ruins of hallownest. But only for a moment, before Ghost jumps down to begin their journey beyond this wretched place.

A vessel running from its shade as it tirelessly pursues them, the vessel refusing to put it to rest.

tw: suicide, + personal on main

Ugh ugh ugh ugh Either thk was fully conscious and in terrible pain for all those years... or they couldn’t feel anything at all. The former is horrible, but imagining thk waking up, chained, unable to do anything but wait for Ghost to heed their call? Did they turn their nail on themselves to help Ghost, end the pain, or some awful mix of both? For someone who has personally dealt with close friends and family that struggled with suicide themselves, hollowknight is one of the worst horror stories I've ever seen. And the fact that the story is so personal, so open to interpretation? The fact that each character is so genuine yet vague enough to be read completely differently to someone else’s biases? Its why hollow knight- the game, and the character- will forever be one of the most powerful stories to me.

in short, good LORD THIS GAME IS SO FUCKING SAD

[loucifieri]

ndrv3 HPA AU (Class ‘79) notes~

I’ve only ever been posting snippets of the their silly school life (without following a chronological timeline of events) so here’s some context of how I characterized the ndrv3 kids (essentially the same personalities but with some tweaks) and maybe some info on the relationships in my comics. Implied and outright spoilers, apparently. The rest under the cut.

NDRV3 Character design masterlist here Class 79A Character descriptions here Further characterizations here Family headcanons here Cover Art here Dorm designs here

Comic snippets so far: (most of these were from before I finalized their characterizations) Moms called out by trash child Kaito and Kokichi have “The Talk” How Kaede became the Class Rep A Lesson in Romantics Real Talk Sports Day

[Facebook] [Instagram] [Twitter] [Blogger] [Kofi]

/Draft/ Final characterizations here

Kaede Akamatsu: The ‘protagonist spotlight’ mostly falls on her. Personality-wise, she’ll still be the ever cheerful, charming and kind Kaede (with a toned down self-righteousness) but with a dash of her pre-game personality which is being mistrustful and to an extent, condescending. 

Angie Yonaga: Angie is still Angie, but with added eccentricities. Since she her character design kind of implies she’s from an island in the West (okay, Hawaii) which is part of America, she’s going to be referencing memes and western culture.

Kirumi Tojo: Her maid shtick is a conscious effort for her. She has selfish whims and insecurities deep down that calm, collected and altruistic persona that she tries to project. (in-game Tojo was just too one dimensional, ugh)

Tenko Chabashira: She mostly maintains her enthusiastic, down to earth, protective (of the girls) nature but she won’t be too vocal about her aversion towards the MENaces (it was so overdone in the game to the point of being annoying) and with a short temper. Will probably have a sad or comical (still can’t decide which lol) backstory about why she dislikes DEGENERATE MALES.

Himiko Yumeno: Mostly the same with her in-game personality but isn’t dismissive of human interaction. Apart from her “I’m a mage, not a magician” gag, she’s suspected to be always on drugs by most. Secretly stays up late a lot to watch k-drama.

Maki Harukawa: Still anti-social and uptight but it won’t be because of her talent (which is outright revealed to be Ultimate Assassin)… she just hates talking to people her age (lol). Also, her backstory won’t be the same in-game coz that seemed intentionally sad in context, but it’s strangely out of place in a peaceful AU like this. She’s still from an orphanage and serves as an elder sister figure. She was physically conditioned and trained to be an assassin but it turns out it was just a complicated plot to make her a Motion Capture stunt girl for an Assassin’s Creed game. So yeah, she hasn’t really killed anyone in real life but she physically (and mentally??) can, if desired.

Tsumugi Shirogane: She won’t think she’s a plain jane nor will she make an effort to remain a ‘wallflower.’ She’s into a lot of fandoms, naturally. She also stans Junko Enoshima (who isn’t a Despair junkie btw) and makes vague references about “being in a reality show,” (wink, wink)

Miu Iruma: Same ol’ Miu, but will try to make an effort to be likeable. Also has standards, so no she is not going to do lewd things with Teru Teru-sempai.

Shuichi Saihara: Since no one has to die for his character development, it’s going to take awhile for him to remove his hat. At first, he’s still meek and unconfident but not codependent on Kaede. Also adding a dash of his pre-game personality, him being an avid fanboy of all things detective (stans Kyoko Kirigiri, has a sizable collection of Nancy Drew Books and Detective Conan manga etc). Struggles with depression at times.

Kokichi Ouma: Compulsive lying is dumbed down and has his limits with his intentional assholery. His genuinely caring personality will also peek through a lot and he won’t vehemently deny it that much.

Rantaro Amami: Carefree, easygoing and fabulously gay big brother figure of the class. Makes vlogs in the style of Bear Grylls’ Man VS Wild. He also references the Danganronpa franchise plots (except V3) in his stories of his adventures.

Kaito Momota: Still quite sexist but it’s more because of upbringing rather than intentional. He doesn’t just suddenly develop an incurable, deadly disease but he has Tuberculosis (hence, coughs a lot). And, he’s very competitive (his pre-game personality repackaged).

Ryoma Hoshi: Mostly detached and stoic but not depressive and unfeeling. I’m tweaking his backstory a bit coz an ex-con that has served prison time going back to high school is a bit weird (and I don’t want the “HPA pulling shady shenanigans” shtick). His family has been murdered and all he has left is the family cat (that he gets to keep in the dorms) and he’s been pursuing leads about the mafia responsible for it. He’s basically a Sasuke Uchiha here. Anyway, he’s wise but vindictive. Fortunately, he doesn’t want to serve justice with his own hands.

Korekiyo Shinguji: Doesn’t have a sister complex and definitely not a compulsive serial killer here. He’s already got an interesting, creepy persona. Miyadera is alive, but still sickly and would visit him often to bring him home-cooked meals. Unsurprisingly has a fascination for see-saws.

Gonta Gokuhara: still the best boy best boy best boy raised in the mountains He won’t be too gullible here and would even join in roasting Kokichi.

Keebo Idabashi: He’s the Ultimate Robotics Engineer since he’s not a robot. Spent most of his life sheltered (even from the internet) so he’s shy and quite socially inept. Always gets very defensive of his talent.

And now, for the platonic and romantic ships~ I actually multiship but in this AU I’m going to stick to one ship for a particular person since I’m personally not keen on polyamory. (please don’t burn me on a stake)

Kaede||Shuichi: Saimatsu BROTP; in fact, they refer to each other by first name. I didn’t want this to be an “OTP” here since Saimatsu was mostly set up and situational in-game because of Shuichi’s codependency and Kaede’s desire to break him out of his shell, though undeniably they do have a really good chemistry together. Really, I love Saimatsu just-- let them explore their options. (I’m also just bitter I couldn’t flirt more using Kaede after Chapter 1 ;w;)

Kaede|Kirumi: I’m not inconspicuous about it actually lol idk I just see a good chemistry between them. Also, think of the mom jokes since they’re both the class moms. And while my comics tend to jump back and forth chronologically, if I was going to write a fic– their relationship is a slow burn with lots of pining

Shuichi|Kokichi: Their love hotel scene oh my god Kokichi really has it bad and that little liar is a good match for Sai, he facilitated his growth in a (twisted) way but this is an AU so yeah. Beforehand, Kokichi has a slight interest in Rantaro.

Maki|Kaito: This is a canon-ish ship that had a weird development too, but again, they have a nice chemistry too. I wanna explore that normal, potential development between them (also, I’m not sayin they’re both necessarily straight coz this is a straight ship lol).

Himiko|Tenko: There’s just… a lot of potential cuteness in them, even though they were kind of dysfunctional in canon. The fact that they’re polar opposites when it comes to physical activities gives me enough cannon fodder for their tandem. And Himiko being involved with Tenko can really help her a lot (like when the latter’s death in-game impacted her so much).

Kaito||Kokichi: Sort of a Oumota reference lol Chapter 5 gave me an inkling of their dynamics together and it was nice to see that Kaito gave Kokichi a leap of faith despite all his atrocities. So, I think they’d be good friends in the AU, just laced with a lot of badmouthing and insulting each other.

Rantaro||Tsumugi: Mastermind and Survivor solidarity~ They’re good friends in middle school before entering HPA.

Miu||Keebo: They’re both socially inept techie nerds sitting at the back of the class so finding friendship with each other isn’t far from happening. I lowkey shipped them in the game but I haven’t decided in this AU yet~

That’s all for now I guess :D I can try to make an actual comic with plot about them someday… but I can’t promise, even to myself. huhu

[proxylynn]

UNDERFELL: FILE NAME NOT EDGY ENOUGH part #7

Chapter 7: Trust WARNING: I WANT NO RESPONSIBILITY OVER SPOILING THINGS FOR OTHERS. THAT BEING SAID, THIS IS HOW FILE NAME NOT FOUND WOULD FUNCTION IN THE AU OF UNDERFELL. BEFORE YOU READ THIS, UNLIKE THE NICE TIME OF UNDERTALE, THIS WORLD IS KILL OR BE KILLED. THIS STORY WILL BE GRAPHIC, GORY, USE SWEARS LIKE NOBODY'S BUSINESS, AND DEAL WITH SENSITIVE SUBJECT MATTERS. FOR EXAMPLE, THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE READ THE FILE NAME RELOCATED SPOOF WILL KNOW HOW I PICTURE THIS VERSION OF LYNSIE COMING TO THE UNDERGROUND. IT IS NOT AN ACCIDENT. IT IS NOT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING DUMB. IT IS BECAUSE SHE CHOOSES TO END HER LIFE. SO TAKE THIS WITH A GRAIN OF SALT. I MADE IT BECAUSE I NEEDED TO LET SOME OF THIS EDGINESS OUT OF MYSELF. WHICH I GUESS MAKES UNDERFELL LYNSIE EVEN MORE TRUE TO WHO I REALLY AM. ANYWAY, ENJOY. ^_^ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ [About another week later] Not much has changed since the door moment. Toriel has become more doting than usual. Feeling guilty over having to result in violence to subdue me before my soul changed. I have tried to explain that I asked for it and was okay with how she handled it, but to no avail. Flowey's concern over the Black Soul is also apparent. He questions me more on how I feel when we train and lessens the training if he thinks I'm being pushed too hard. It annoys me because his worry costs me from gaining more stat points on the usual schedule. At this rate, it'll take another week just to gain the points for a normal one-week session. I ask Chara for advice but he's got about as much as I do, which ain't anything really. I gave it some time before trying to talk to Sans again. That guy can be such an asshole sometimes. But when you get past that part of him, he can be really fun to just chat with. But even he treads lightly around me now. I catch him correcting the things he says every so often. I hate this. Everyone is acting like I'm a ticking time-bomb that can go off at any second. At least Napstablook treats me the same. He doesn't think I'm some porcelain doll that needs to be handled with kid gloves. In fact, I'm not sure what he thinks of me. But whatever it is, it's more normal than what everyone else thinks. "psst...Lynsie...you awake?" I roll over in bed and find Napstablook hovering nearby. This used to scare the crap out of me until I made him promise to speak before trying to wake me. Nothing's creepier than waking up to the feeling you're being watched and finding a ghost's face in your face. Especially when all you can see are those freaky glowing red eyes that stare into your very soul and cast everything else in a soft crimson glow. "*yawn* What's up, Blooky-man?" He settles down beside me, no longer uncomfortable with the idea of laying in bed near me. "s-sorry. hope this isn't a bad time." "Nah, man, you're good. As long as he's still sleeping, we should be fine." I look over at the slumbering flower that's slightly dropped in his pot. "Yeah, we're fine. So what's the dealio my ghost buddy? Ya needed to talk or something?" "*sigh* not really sure. I kinda didn't feel like being alone. know what I mean?" I nod with a smile. "Chill with me as long as you want. You know I like having your company." He blushes faintly but goes unnoticed in the dark. We lay in bed and face the ceiling. Staring at nothing but images in our heads. "this is nice." "Agreed." "it reminds me of an old ghost tradition." "Oh? Do tell." "well...promise not to make fun about it?" "Dude, after all this time we've been buds do ya really have to ask me that?" "heh...I guess that was silly. you're too nice to do that." "So how's this tradition go?" "after a great meal, I like to lie on the ground and feel like garbage..." "Blook-man..." "what?" "That's some very trashy behavior." He looks at me funny and I bite my tongue to keep quiet. "did you really just make pun of me?" "Who? Me? Never. The very idea is rubbish." He glares a bit. Those eyes would shoot daggers if they could, I swear. "Hey, I got an idea. Wanna hear some surface music?" That softens his expression. "you have tunes?" "Nah, man. I got playlists. So many playlists! Organized by genre and mood of course." "...bust that shit out now." I giggle and roll off the bed away from him. He watches me, which is good since he's the light I'm seeing by, as I go to the dresser and search around for my iPod. "*grumbling* Stupid thing...freaking saw it this morning...the fuck does it go missing when nobody touches my shit...wait...wait...Got it!" "sweet!" I prance over victoriously and return to my spot on the bed. "wait...didn't you say that thing was drenched in water?" "Yeah, but I dried it out n some rice. Works fine now. Only bad thing is I don't have the charge cable down here and I limited battery life left." "let me see it." He takes it from me and looks at the plugin part. "I think there might be cords for this at the dump. don't quote me on that though." I'm a bit stunned. "what?" "There's a dump? Underground? With human junk in it?" "you'd be surprised by what ends up down here. I mean...look at you for example." I'm not sure whether that was a compliment or an insult. I'll go with a compliment because I like the guy. [You complimented Napstablook.] "I'm glad to down here if it means I get to be with you, Blooky." [Though that might have been just a bit too much for a compliment.] The blush he gets must be pretty big because his face is glowing brightly. [The faint odor of ectoplasm permeates the vicinity.] "Blook-man?" "*flustered* s-s-shut up and put some d-damn music on, you idiot!" "*groans*" "Shhhhh!" We freeze and look at Flowey. He shifts a little bit before settling down again. "Too close, man. Too close." "are you really afraid of waking him? he's just a flower." "Not him...Toriel's room is next door. If so much as one sound can wake him then it's enough to wake her. And what do you think she'll do when she comes charging in to see a dude in bed with her daughter in the middle of the night?" For a moment, the black of Napstablook's coloring pales to being as white as the sheets of the bed. "for the love of asgore...have mercy on me, Lynsie! I beg of you! please, spare me her wrath!" "Shhhhh! Blooky, calm down. Just relax and we'll be okay if we keep our voices down. Alright?" "o-okay...okay...c-can y-you play the music now? i-it'll help calm me down." "Sure, buddy. You don't have to ask me twice." I hand him an earbud, which he puts in, while I tune up the player and scroll through a few things. "Anything you in the mood for?" "not really." "Very well. Random shuffle it is." Hitting the button, a tune starts up and I put the other earbud in so I don't miss out. [My Chemical Romance - The Ghost of You] "♪I never said I'd lie and wait forever. If I died, we'd be together right now. I can't always just forget her. But she could try...At the end of the world. Or the last thing I see. You are never coming home, never coming home. Could I? Should I? And all the things that you never ever told me. And all the smiles that are never ever...Ever...Get the feeling that you're never. All alone and I remember now. At the top of my lungs in my arms, she dies. She dies...♫" Huh...I forgot I had this song...Probably would've worked for the one I picked to fall down to. "♪At the end of the world. Or the last thing I see. You are never coming home, never coming home. Could I? Should I? And all the things that you never ever told me. And all the smiles that are ever gonna haunt me. Never coming home, never coming home. Could I? Should I? And all the wounds that are ever gonna scar me. For all the ghosts that are never gonna catch me...If I fall...If I fall down...♫" This feeling...There was a reason I made a playlist like this...Heh...I remember now...I wanted to cry. "♪At the end of the world. Or the last thing I see. You are never coming home, never coming home. Never coming home, never coming home. And all the things that you never ever told me. And all the smiles that are ever gonna haunt me. Never coming home, never coming home. Could I? Should I? And all the wounds that are ever gonna scar me. For all the ghosts that are never gonna...♫" I can feel the tears flow down the sides of my face and slope just under my ears. I'm so weak for this. Intentionally making a playlist so that it'll force me to cry. How pathetic. I bet Napstablook thinks I must be a big baby for crying about a song. "*sniffling*" Wait a second...I'm not making that sound. Looking to my side, Napstablook has his eyes shut tight and the glow of his red tears is all I see. "Buddy? You okay? Did I pick a bad song?" His eyes open in fright and next thing I know is he's holding onto me for dear life. "B-Blooky? Hey man, what's wrong?" "*cries* why did you go? you told me you wouldn't leave me behind...you said family sticks together...so why? why did you leave me all alone?!" I flinch. Those words...This sadness...I know this all too well. I don't know who these words are truly for, but I can't forgive that person for making Napstablook feel the way he does now. No one...Not even monsters that try to kill to live...No one should feel this pain! I wrap my arms around the sadden specter and hold him tight to my chest. "*groggy* Wha...? *yawn* What's all the yelling for?" Flowey wakes up but can't see a thing due to Napstablook's face taking cover against me. "Go back to sleep, Flowey." "Huh?" The sound of heavy steps is heard coming up the hall and room's door opens with a simultaneous flicker of the lights. "My child? Is everything...?" Toriel looks at the scene now shown in the light. "I know what this looks like...But please. Not right now, mom. Not right now..." As much as she wants to do something about the boy in her daughter's bed, the ghost's body language and my words tell her this is more a moment of supportive emotional comfort than a thing of private intimacy. "Understood." She turns out the lights. "Rest easy, young ones." She leaves and I can hear her return to her room. I really wish I could say she wouldn't stoop to listening in through the walls, but that would be foolish to think otherwise. "She...She left? She really left? Just like that?" "Flowey...Go back to sleep." "But...I have so many questions..." "*snarls* she said go back to sleep, you annoying weed, or I'll make you sleep...permanently!" "Blooky." "*mumbles* sorry..." "Fine, I'll try to sleep. But no funny stuff." I roll my eyes and rub Napstablook's back. Funny. I should probably ask how I can grasp a ghost on a physical level, but not now. Now is not the time for such fascinating questions. {Hey...uh...You're not really going to do anything gross, are you?} Oh for fuck's sake! Can I not hug a guy in my bed without everyone thinking we're going to do something?! And where did you come from, Chara?! Your timing fucking sucks man! "um...Lynsie?" "Yeah?" "t-thanks. for b-b-being here and...letting me be all...lame like this." "Napstablook...I...There's something I want you to know." "what's that?" For the love of all that's holy, don't anyone judge me for this or have him take it the wrong way. "I want you to know that I'll always be here for you." I press a small kiss to his forehead and his eyes open wide, casting the room in a hellish glow that makes my sweet smile a tad creepy. "I don't know who made you feel this hurt. But I would never dream of doing so to you. I care too much. So you can be here with me for as long as you wish. I'm not going to leave you. I have nowhere to go and no better place to be. No better place than right here, because here is where you are, and thus, I shall remain. Do you understand this, Blooky? Do you see my truth?" He just stares at me, unblinking. "y-you...you can't be real." "Hush, silly boy. I am as real as you. And I meant what I said. I will not leave you. This I promise." "b-b-but..." I rest my head on his and give a little nuzzle. "No buts. I told you, I promise. I take my promises very seriously. So there's no point trying to say no." He grumbles a little before settling down and accepting this. "so...you'd really stay with me if I need you?" "Yep." "does that little promise of yours include my place?" "Depends...You inviting me over?" "heh...what if I am?" "Hmmm...Guess you backed me into a corner on that one." "*scoff* knew it. not even you would..." "I'd just have to get directions. I don't want to get lost along the way." He's shocked and so is Flowey. "Are you freaking serious?! You can't leave the Ruins! The monsters out there will chew you up and spit you out! You're too nice to handle them!" "Flowey...I said...Go back to sleep. *cold* How hard is it to do that one simple thing?" Flowey shivers and hides in his pot. "*sigh* I swear, that boy calls me a shitty listener? Silly little flower." "Lynsie..." I give my attention back to Napstablook. "you...you would really leave the Ruins? for me?" "Is that really so hard to believe?" "b-but what about Toriel?" "If I explain to her the situation I'm fairly confident she'll let me hang out at your place. Provided I take my phone and call her multiple times to let her know I'm okay. You know how she is about my safety." "true. must be nice. having someone care about you like that." "It is. But I'm sure you feel the same way." "huh?" "Because I care about you, spooky Blooky." He blushes and squirms in my hold. "ah...no fair! stop making this so awkward!" "Sorry. But you make it hard not to be so sweet on ya. What with that cute face and adorable behavior." "do you want me to go? because if you keep that up, I'm gone." "Fair enough. I shall stop...for now." "*growls*" "I only do it because I like you. Remember that. I'm only sweet to those I care about...That means you." "w-whatever. *muffled* ...care about you too..." "What was that?" "n-n-nothing! just take your own advice and go to sleep." "Will you stay with me if I do?" "...maybe." "Okay...Sweet dreams, Blook-man." "night, human." He shuts his eyes and I open mine so I can watch him. He's so cute for a silly ghost. I remove the earbuds and shove the iPod under the pillow. "Just to be clear...You really were inviting me out to your house? No joke?" "yes...it's far from here but if you want to come over, you can." "Can I listen to your tunes while I'm there?" "oh my god, sure, whatever. just go to sleep already." "Thank you, Blooky." He growls a little and I hug him closer to calm him. Eventually, sleep does claim us once more. When I finally wake up again it's around noon. Toriel got a little worried that something happened, but her fears end when I prove not to be dead. With a little encouragement, I get Napstablook to stick around long enough to explain our little "sleepover" idea. If this was any other monster, I have the feeling Toriel would set them ablaze where they stand. Likely for Napstablook he has two things going for him. One, he's a ghost and as a ghost, he's already technically dead. And two, he can only be somewhat hurt if attacked with magic. Sure, Toriel's flames are physical. Yet she conjures them by magic. But she doesn't know this or at least doesn't appear to. So Napstablook is able to leave unharmed after the talk. She agrees to think it over. How long, she does not say. Till then, it's life as usual. [Eventually] I get the feeling Toriel is becoming more comfortable with the idea of me venturing out of the Ruins. I figure as much with her subtle hints like the extra clothes that show up in my room, the bagged lunches starting to fill the fridge, and the sudden appearance of a backpack with the Delta Rune on it. I'd have to be pretty slow not to pick up on any of that. Still, I'm amazed she's going this far with it. Maybe it's because of all the hard work I've been doing. Maybe it's because she noticed my stats finally increase again to an impressive HP 36, ATK 21, and DEF 14. Or maybe it's because I haven't been bugging her about like some snot-nosed brat would. It goes to show that if you want someone to take you seriously, you show that you're are a responsible adult that is not a nagging whining asshole. Still, I don't know how much longer she intends to prepare before announcing the okay. It could be ages, or whenever the fridge can't take anymore bagged lunches. I end up finding out sooner or later. Because one day, I wake up to a note slid under my door. {What's it say?} "My child, this is a day that I would be lying to say I was not dreading. You have done well to show me that you are strong, both in power and heart. Surely, you have noticed the items I have been leaving in your room. Take the bag and gather only that what you need. Meet me at the door when you are ready." {Creepy.} "Why is it...Wait...No, you're right. This is creepy. Like, sending a lamb into a wolf den level of foreboding." {Flowey's not here either.} "What? *sigh* I swear those two scheme together sometimes. What do you think the odds are he's with her and she'll pawn him on us as a spy?" {Very likely. About as likely as you hugging Napstablook.} "Hehe...Damn that percentage is huge!" {What are you gonna pack?} "Some extra clothes, the phone, the iPod, and a bunch of those bags in the fridge. You know. The must haves." {What about the knife?} I flinch at that. {The monsters out there are all high LV leveled. And unlike mom, they WILL attempt to kill you in a fight. As much as I share your 'do not kill' mentality, you will need something to defend yourself. And that toy is the closest thing to a defensive tool that you have.} "...I know. It was handy in the fight with Toriel as I could deflect her shots. But if I...If the Black Soul triggers...I don't want to end up hurting anyone." {I know that. But that's why I'll help you.} "You didn't help me last time. Toriel had to choke me out. Where were you during all that anyway?" {I told you before. It takes a lot of energy to manifest. The longer you store your magic, the more often I can come out. And you tend to have the most energy for me to use after a few days.} "You're using my energy?" {Well...Yeah. I am sort of attached to you.} "Why?" {You landed on my grave when you fell.} "...That doesn't answer anything!" {How the hell would I know? It's not like I got a manual on how this works when I died.} "Fair enough. *huff* Probably should make this quick. Who knows how long she's been waiting." So I do just that. I get dressed, gather up my junk into the backpack, and when all is ready I head downstairs to the basement. Low and behold, her note wasn't kidding. She is down here and waiting at the exit door. Her face holding back other emotions that she'd rather be showing than the eerie unsettled calm she has. She holds Flowey in his pot like doing so is what is keeping her so relaxed. I'd hate to see how she'll be once we leave. "I have been expecting you, my child." "I was beginning to think you'd never be ready for this, Nanny." "Are you sure you really want to do this? No one is making you do anything you don't want to." "I know, and I understand. But at this point, I'm just curious. Plus I made a promise to Blooky, and I don't like to break those." "You mean that ghost friend of yours?" "Yep. You have nothing to worry about from him. He's a sweetheart that doesn't like to show it." "Be that as it may, I have taken the liberty to err on the side of caution." "Oh?" "I have asked Sans to look out for you while you explore. Best that someone keeps you out of Asgore's sight." "I agree with you there. But I intend to not draw attention to myself." "Oh yeah? How are you going to do that, fool? You're the only human in the entire Underground! You'll stick out like a headless horseman at a barbershop!" "Easy. I'll use my kickass ninja skills to blend in with the shadows and avoid detection." Chara snickers while Flowey groans. "Honestly though...I'm gonna avoid as many monsters as I can. Probably reach the closest community, find a place to rest, then come back home the next day if I can't make it to Napstablook's place before bedtime. You know? Take baby steps and not stray too far." "Very clever, child. It sounds like you've done this before." "Not really. Play enough video games and certain scenarios really sick in your head so you end up knowing what to do without ever knowing that you do. But if it'll help assure you of my safety, I promise to call. Once in the evening and again in the morning. Sound fair to you, mom?" She smiles weakly. "That is most fair, my child. Did you take any of the lunches I made for you?" "I took a good number of them. Still got plenty of room in the pack if that's what ya mean." "Good girl." She steps behind me and places Flowey in the pack before closing it over him, leaving enough room for him to peek out of. "You will be taking the flower with you." "I figured as much." "He will assist you. No one would suspect a flower for a bodyguard." "...I don't know whether to be insulted or applaud that idea for its brilliance." {Clap. It'll make her feel good.} I go with clapping and her smile feels truer. I turn to face her as she takes me into her arms. "I will miss you, Lynsie." I feel bad for leaving. Nothing goes right for her when someone leaves. But I will come back. I have to. I put my arms around her and hug my goat mom tight. "I'll miss you too, mother. But I'm not leaving forever. I promise you, I will come home. I'll be back by tomorrow. Maybe even later today if need be." We let go and she takes a few steps away to leave. "Be safe, my child. And take care." I smile and give her a thumbs up. "I will, Nanny. I promise." She gives me a small smile before taking her leave, not wanting to see me actually leave her sight, and now I face this ominous door alone. So this is it? The final frontier so to speak. What mysterious wonders await me just beyond these stone doors? Truth be told, I am a bit nervous about this. But I can't let that stop me. Not now. Not when I've made it this far. "You ready for this?" {Ready.} "Ready as I'll ever be." Flowey pops out and perches himself on my shoulder. "Okay...Here goes nothing." I open the door as best I can and squeeze myself out to the other side. Once on the other side, the door shuts again tight. No going back now. Instantly I'm hit by the difference in temperature. It's freezing cold, but that's due to there being snow. Wait a second...How is there snow underground? I guess magic but that seems too simple. Either way, I can sum up this new place up in a simple statement. "Holy fuck, it's cold!" [In Hotland, Laboratory] This was home to Alphys, a slightly corpulent reptile-monster that appears smaller than she really is due to slouching. She has yellow skin/scales, wears spiral shaped glasses, a red and black striped sweater with a matching black skirt, and topped off with a classic white lab coat with a few frayed ends. Truly a geeky looking but really mad scientist type of monster. Today Alphys was going over security camera footage, a task she does daily as Royal Scientist, the previous Royal Scientist had mounted 8 cameras to watch out for humans, blackmail, and other happenings around the Underground. A camera behind the waterfall, a camera hidden in the trees in Snowdin, a camera underneath the bridge, a camera hidden inside another tree, a camera hidden inside this lump of snow, two cameras behind the sentry stations, and a camera hidden in the bushes by the door to the Ruins. It had been many years since a human has shown up on these cameras. At this point, they were used to spy on others. Blackmail really keeps people in line when the information is juicy enough. Just checking that all is running smoothly in the Underground...well, as okay as the Underground can really get at this point what with all the random murder. Though still not as entertaining as Mew-Mew Kissy Cutie anime, that's for sure. Mettaton should be finished shooting his cooking show by now. The breaks between his recordings were used to perform system checks and upgrades. Though as of late that time has been used to refine the new body he requested. It was just lucky for her that the former ghost agreed to the design she made. It's based on one of her favorite manga characters and it seemed to suit the former ghost's personality. Sipping on her cup of ramen noodles, nothing appeared to be out of the norm. Undyne was doing her rounds in Waterfall, the skeleton brothers were at their posts in Snowdin's forest, same old thing, day after day. Hell, at this point, she might as well get a kick out of watching that Ice Wolf hurl blocks of ice into the river. Why? Because a naked strongman can get anyone's motor going under the right reasons. She was just about to dial the Snowdin cameras on when suddenly, something that's normally still as stone starts moving. "What the...?" The sealed doors to the Ruins were moving ever so slightly. She focused the screen to zero in solely on this camera's feed and enhanced the zoom. A hand emerged, gripping the door to push it further for space. It didn't move much, forcing the hand's owner to squeeze through the space like rat going under a door crack. In time, out pops a female form. And that of a human no less. Wait...A human?! "*spit-take* A human?! Finally! It's been too fucking long! Wait...is that...an adult? Huh? That's odd." The human took a moment to breathe before noticing the Ruin's door shut themselves. Suddenly their expression changes. Not of fear. But of realization, as they take hold of their surroundings. "Holy fuck, it's cold!" The draconian scientist couldn't help but laugh at this. "Sucks to be you, human." Sure, Alphys could feel sympathy for the human there, as she herself couldn't stand the cold. But the human's reaction was something straight out of one of those sissy animes she hates. "ALPHYS DARLING..." Mettaton had finished taping early, there was just so much posing and glamour an omelet recipe required before it just gets annoyingly tacky. "IS EVERYTHING ALRIGHT?" The thing about Alphys is this, is has extremely severe anxiety. She is constantly nervous, despite taking more than enough medication. However, pumping herself full of anti-depressants has made the doctor rather sociopathic and apathetic. Her moral compass has also been skewed beyond repair by her world's values, and the terrible experiments she's had to do. She has no sense of ethics, and is often outright abusive to her living test subjects, not caring whether they live or die. She also has a huge lying problem and is very manipulative, which is how she gets her so-called "patients". "Ah, Mettaton. I take it you've finished that pitiful excuse for a cooking show." "NO NEED TO BE SO HARSH, DEAR. NO ONE'S MAKING YOU WATCH." To be fair, Mettaton would carry more authority if he was scary looking. The robot appears as a dark-gray almost black largely rectangular box with cracks across his body and screen. The screen itself typically has a red "X" showing on the grid, but when able to, the lights of the grid can change color depending on his various actions. He has four dials along the bottom-front of his body, and he has a single leg which ends in a wheel. His most distinguishing feature is that he has two pairs of segmented robotic arms that end in gloved hands. His upper arm gloves are red and yellow gloves on his lower arms. Not to mention his voice was like digital silk that always held a flirtatious tone...yeah, not scary. "OH, MY. DO TELL, WHAT ARE YOU WATCHING?" "Huh? Oh, this...It's the video feed from outside the Ruins." "AND THAT FEMALE...IS THAT A HUMAN?" "That would be correct. It's been a long time since one fell. Provided nothing happens to shatter her soul before capture, that human is the last piece need to destroy the barrier." "HMMM..." While at first glance, it would appear this hunk of metal has advanced AI programming, but that is not the case. Mettaton is a robot with a soul. He was once a ghost but left his old life behind him to be a TV star with the help of Alphys. Unfortunately, when he became a TV star and got his new body, it came with a consequence. He is now an abused slave for Alphys. He is forced to do her bidding and if he doesn't do so, Alphys will respond with emotional or physical abuse. Mettaton could be considered a sympathetic character, only he is more tragic since the monsters of the Underground hate him, his show, and is always forced to work for Alphys. Not many get to know him when off camera, but his personality is said to be a mix of dry humor and melancholy retorts. He believes himself to be incredibly ugly but still holds the dream of becoming a beloved superstar one day. Though with his show being described as boring, annoying, and hateful, his chances of fame are low. So when something interesting showed up, he was normally the first to suggest using it on the show to boost ratings. And this sudden human was no exception. The moment she was caught his vision sensors there was no escape. "HOW INTERESTING. ALPHYS DEAR...MAYBE IT WOULDN'T HURT TO HAVE HER APPEAR ON THE SHOW." "Say what?" "THINK FOR A MOMENT. WE CAN EASILY KILL AT ANY POINT. BUT WHY WASTE SUCH A RARE OPPORTUNITY? THINK OF THE RATINGS! NO WAY IN HELL WOULD THE MONSTERS OF THE UNDERGROUND WILL SEND ME MORE HATE MAIL WHEN I DRAG THE HUMAN THROUGH A GUANLET OF THE MOST GRUELING AND PUNISHING TASKS. ALL OF WHICH WOULD LEAD UP TO THE CLIMACTIC BATTLE WITH YOURS TRUELY. OOOH. I CAN SEE IT NOW. THE ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES! IT'S SO EXCITING!" "Stop! Stop! Don't say another word, you scrap heap. First off, you make the schedule and script, then I'll approve it if it's good. And second, she has to survive making it to Snowdin. Otherwise, you'll be having fun with a lifeless corpse." "OH, I HAVE FEELING SHE'LL MAKE IT. THAT'S CLEARLY THE FACE OF A STRONG WILLED HUMAN IF EVER I SAW ONE." "You've never seen a human till now, you idiot." "DO YOUR ANIMES NOT COUNT?" "...Just shut up and watch. Otherwise, leave." The unusually chipper robot perplexed the scientist. But then both of their attentions were back on the monitor screen, the human was conversing with what appeared to be a flower coming from her back. Damn these cameras and their lack of audio! Either way, things were going to get interesting real soon. [Outside the Ruins] I look around and am amazed by what I see. Not only is there snow, there are tall thin black trees and thick bushes. It's like whatever magic that is down here is trying to make it as close to the surface world that it can get. Honestly, it's incredible. I'd be more in awe if it weren't still cold. I'm not a fan of the cold. Unless it's foods, like ice cream, that's always awesome. "Thank god for long sleeves." "What about your legs? Your pants are pretty torn up." "It's fine. Not as bad as if it were the arms. Just gotta try not to use too much energy. Should be easy enough." "Why does it feel like you just jinxed us?" "Don't be so negative. Positives will keep us going." "You are so corny it's almost painful." "Chill out, flower-boy. If you can't stand my vibes, that's snow problem." "Argh! No! No puns! Don't even start!" "Whatever." I start walking away from the door. My steps crunching in the snow loudly under my boots. {You are oddly prepared for this.} "Go figure." {Just don't let your guard down. I don't like the looks of this place.} "Yeah...One could catch their death out here." "Oh my god! Don't pun to Chara." I snicker for a bit till I come across a large tree branch that looks way too out of place to have just fallen from above. "Why'd you stop?" "This." [It's a tough-looking branch.] "Tough huh? Pick it up. Maybe you can use it." "Use it? For what? It's a branch." "You can use it as a defensive thing, you know? Block attacks." "I'm not wandering around with that thing." [It's too heavy to pick up.] "Huh...Guess that settles that then. Man, I thought you humans were strong." "Like hell it is!" "W-What are you doing?" "Proving I'm not limited by some stupid remark some magic box says." Grabbing each end, I lift the damn thing about me. "Suck it, dumb magic box! I defy your bullshit." "Great. You made a point. Can we go now?" "Sure, no biggie." I let the branch drop behind me and Flowey looks at me funny. "But...You..." "I don't want it. I'm not taking it. I don't need it." "But..." "*growl*" "*sigh* Fine. I won't bring it up again." I smile and continue on. Though I don't go very far before I pause. Something doesn't feel quite right. [CRUNCH] Looking back quickly, the tough-looking branch has now been broken. [It's been smashed like it was nothing...] "What the hell?" "W-What did that?" {I don't think we should stay to find out.} I turn on my heel and away from the ominously splintered wood. "I told you that you should've picked it up." "Yeah, and I'd carry a log around like a jackass." "I'm not saying you had to use it. You could've used it to make yourself look scary and make other people run away." "Like a girl with a big stick is gonna frighten anyone." "It was worth a shot." {You could've humored him.} "No." {Please? The next idea he has, at least say you'll think about it.} "...Okay." {Thank you!} "Don't mention it." I slow my pace down to a near pause at the return of that uneasy feeling that happened before. I'm being followed, stalked really, like a deer in the sights of a wolf. I can sense it. A figure lurks behind me. "Lynsie...?" "*quiet* I know. Keep calm and don't act like a crazy scared baby." "But they...What the? They're gone?" I turn my head and he's right. There are not even any footprints in the snow that aren't mine. "...Fuck this shit, I'm out!" I make a run for it. No way am I dealing with this bullshit. My run doesn't go as far as I wanted. I have to come to a stop at the sudden pit with the tiny gated bridge blocking my path. The bridge looks sturdy enough to cross for something made of wood over a pit into god knows where. The gate, however, is another matter. It's made with the same trees that populate this area and, much like the forest itself, the "bars" are placed so close together that getting through is a low possibility. Granted, I might be able to squeeze between the bars, but it's gonna be a tight and aggravating pain in my ass. Suddenly, I hear it. The snow is crunching. The footsteps are approaching slowly. "Oh crap! Oh crap! Oh crap! Oh crap!" Flowey retreats into the backpack and I scramble to think of something. But I got nothing. No options appear to be available to me at this moment. I have no choice. I need to improvise and feel this out on instinct. The sound has stopped maybe a foot or two behind me. I can feel it breathing behind me. Just how fast is this monster to have gotten here so quickly? "Human." Relax Lynsie. Don't mess this up. Do your training. Sense for any form of danger and then panic. "Don't you know how to greet a new pal?" Wait a second...I know that voice. Sans? "Turn around and shake my hand." That sneaky son of a...Dude scared the crap out of me. Not cool. I turn slowly and extend my hand. My chilled flesh comes in contact with a warm calcified appendage and I end up dropping to my knees in a tense involuntary loss of muscle control. While I mostly hear the sound of my teeth clattering together and the buzz of 50,000 volts from our joined hands, I can make out his hearty gruff laughter. "hahah...the old electric taser in the hand trick. it's ALWAYS funny." He lets my hand go and allows me to regain myself. My body aches and I feel like puking, a great way to start an introduction. At least now I get to see what this asshole looks like. He is a big-boned skeleton, I'll say around my height, with sharp white teeth apart from the upper-left canine being gold. His eyes are these white pinpricks in dark empty eye sockets and he has bags under them, how that happens on a skull is beyond me. He wears a black winter jacket with a fur rimmed hood and a red sweater with black shorts that have yellow stripes going down the sides. Lastly, he has red sneakers with black laces and yellow socks. "anyways, you're the human, right? that's hilarious." My senses now back under my control, I glare at him annoyed. Payback is a mean bitch! "Not as hilarious as this." Before he starts to question what I mean, I reach out and grab his shorts before yanking them down. The look of sheer shock coupled by the blush burning his cheekbones is worth the shit I'm about to go through and I giggle as he frantically pulls his shorts back up. Not like there was much to hide anyway. He was wearing skull and crossbones boxers after all. "*flustered* what...the...what the fuck is wrong with you?! "Not so funny now, isn't it? A prank is one thing. But it goes to hell when you overstep the pain line." "i outta break your fucking kneecaps for this." "And then we'd be stuck in a tit for tat revenge loop. But that would be boring. Don't ya think?" He grumbles and removes the hand taser, shoving it in his shorts pocket as I get off the ground with a tiny wobble. "Though I will admit this. You got me pretty good, bone-boy. I let my guard down and you shocked the crap out of me. I commend you thusly." I give a bow and he shrugs it off. "what did i tell ya about flattery? that shit doesn't work on me." "You also said you still liked hearing it none the less." "heh. that i do." "So...You're Sans?" "in the non-flesh. that makes you the kid." "I'd hope so, otherwise this only makes things super awkward. And this kid has a name, skele-dude. It's Lynsie." "huh...you're a bit nutty. ya know that?" {You don't know the half of it, comedian.} "So I'm constantly told. Either way, I now understand what you meant before. Sorry about the 'naked' thing." "eh, no harm done. i take it it's not every day you meet a skeleton." "Not a living one, no. Though, I gotta say, seeing you now...I have so many questions about your biology. Sure, I figure most are going to be answered with 'because of magic', but still..." "hold your horses, kiddo. that kinda stuff is rather personal. at least buy me dinner first." "Name the time and the place, bone-boy. But I warn ya now...I don't got much gold on me, so expect a cheap date." He scratches the top of his skull nonchalantly with a small snicker. "so the old lady really let ya out?" "Yep. I'm to head over to my buddy's place to hang out." "your buddy?" "You flatter yourself thinking you're the only one. I got a friend who's a ghost. Ever heard of a guy called Napstablook?" He thinks for a moment. "oh yeah...i know the guy." "You do?" "sure. the guy lives all the way in waterfall. it's the area just past snowdin. that's this one, in case you were wondering." "Sweet! Would it be asking too much to get some directions?" "trust me, kid. directions are the least of your worries." I look at him funny. "remember me telling ya i'm a sentry out here?" "Yeah." "well...did ya really think me and my bro were the only ones?" {You know she did.} I let out a nervous laugh. "I guess that was mostly wishful thinking on my part." He shoves his hands in his jacket's pockets and circles around me a few times. I'd say something about it but I get the feeling it's just to mess with me. Still, the feel of his pinprick-like eyes is somewhat predatory yet analytical, like he's studying me. "you weren't kidding about only having LV level one." "You really doubted me? Ow, that hurts." He returns to being in front of me. "if weak shit like that hurts ya, i'd hate to see what a real attack would do to ya." "You underestimate me. Not a wise move, bone-boy." "look, i'm not saying this to trigger ya or anything. but ya gotta be realistic. this place is a kill or be killed world. ya can be kind or try to show mercy all ya want, but the fact is others are gonna be gunning for that soul of yours." {Damn it, Sans. Don't start this crap again.} "I'm well aware of that. But I won't change from my goal. I will not kill." "sure, you don't want to kill anybody. and i can respect that about ya, kiddo. but what happens when you're not given that choice? what will you do if you meet a relentless killer? will you suffer or fight back? you'll try to reason with these bastards, that much i'm willing to bet gold on. but they won't listen to niceness. so what will ya do then? would ya let them get away with hurting you? or will you kill out of frustration when all else fails?" I look at the ground and ball my fists. {Easy, Lynsie. Don't get mad or sad. He isn't worth it.} "like i said, i'm not telling ya this to be a dick. i just...*sigh* man, this is such a weird talk to be having." "I'd find a way..." Now he looks at me funny. "what's that?" "I said, I'd find a way." I look up at him with strong conviction. "I will not shed blood or dust. I will find a way to sway even the coldest of hearts. So call me a fool or a stupid dreamer for thinking I can live in this world without having to kill. I don't care. I will not break and this world can't change me. I will show only kindness to every monster I encounter. Even if I have to force that kindness upon them, it will still be kindness none the less. Even if that means I'll have to get hurt in doing so...That is my answer to you, Sans. So, please...Enough with this questioning of my intent. I will not kill anyone. End of story." {I'm so proud of you.} He rumbles with a low growl but has a face of reverence. "ya got guts, kid. i'd just hate to see them spilled on the floor because of your convictions." I smile. "Nice to know you care about this weirdo human, skele-dude." He scoffs. "don't say stupid shit like that. i don't care about anything." "What about Papyrus?" "...that's different. he's family. ya gotta care about family." My face falters with lack of emotion. "Yeah...Family." He notices this melancholy but doesn't remark on it. "getting back on track. ya wanted to know the way to waterfall?" "If that's okay with you." "i can tell ya, but not here. go through this gate thingy. we'll talk over at my post." "Not sure I can get through this thing." "not really much of a choice. the trees are so packed together not even a dog could wiggle through'em." I sigh and turn back to the barricade. "Whatever happens...Don't mock me." He looks at me confused until he sees what I meant. I take off the backpack and slip it through before tossing it to the other side, I don't need the extra mass. I have to go at this thing sideways. I manage to get my head and right arm through just fine till I hit my first problem...my ample chest. "*irritated* Stupid mammary lumps of fat..." Sans blushes as he watches me try to manhandle my boobs to get through this tight squeeze. But then he gets a devilish idea. "heh...ya okay, kiddo?" "Do I look okay, Sans?" "i don't know. you seem to be making the breast of a bad situation." I flinch with a small blush. "You did not just say that." "say what? like i'd say anything to piss you off. what do i look like to you? some kinda boob?" My eye twitches as I snarl. "I said, don't mock me! This shit hurts!" "alright, alright, i'll stop. it was chest a joke." I growl in annoyance and try to focus on the task at hand. "Now do you see why I don't like it when you make puns?" So speaks the backpack containing Flowey. "You keep quiet, petal-head. I don't need your shit right now either." Sans just laughs, finding this very amusing. I bite my tongue and finally force my chest through this stupid shit, so now I'm halfway in and out of this gate. God, it's times like this that I really miss my kid body. Flat chest, no ass, not an ounce of fat anywhere to be seen. Now look at me. 160 pounds of muscle, big boobs, latin ass, and hourglass curves that make this such a huge fucking pain! Fuck my genetics! Fuck bone structure! Fuck DNA! Fuck all this! Argh! So much internal screaming! "not to sound cheeky..." My head slowly turns to look at the soon to be deadman making jokes at my expense. "yet this is such a booty-ful view." "*seething* I will end you." "i'd like to see ya try. that would mean you'd have to squeeze back through here again. and i don't think ya really want to do that." "...You are such an ass." "at least i'm not the butt of the joke." "*angry roar*" "hahaha...oh, this is looking to be a good day." "Fuck! This! Shit!" {Don't do anything crazy now.} I focus all this rage into pushing through this gate and after much pain of parts of me being pressed into my own bones, I pop out the other side. But with the sudden force of the emergence from this stupid thing, I end up moving faster than my feet expect and have no balance on the bridge. I fall off and only escape a foolish demise by digging my fingers into the edge of the pit to the point I find bracing on a tiny ledge. Flowey freaks out having seen me disappear from sight. "Lynsie!" {Hang on!} I silently thank Flowey for all the training we've done. The old me wouldn't have this grip and be dead by now. "hey, kiddo. take my hand." I look up and see Sans above me, his hand stretched down to me. But I'm afraid. I can't deal with heights. Even ladders freak me out to climb. If there was water under me, I'd strangely be okay. But this is a bottomless pit and I am anything but okay. "kid...snap out of it. take my hand. i ain't gonna drop ya." {Can he really not tell you can't move?} I'm shaking. I'm afraid to let go to reach out for help. I have doubts I can keep hold with one hand or that I'm fast enough to get his hand in time. He can see this. The angry confident human he was just making fun of is now nothing more than a frightened puppy of her former self. He sighs and moves away from the ledge. "you owe me for this." I'm confused when suddenly my soul appears and turns blue. Feeling a magical pull, I'm lifted up out of the pit and tossed into the snow near him. "How...You...You can use blue attacks?" "ya know about such things?" I point to the flower still trying to hide and he chuckles. "figures. kid, i don't like using my magic if i don't have to. so now, you owe me a favor that ya can't weasel out of. ya got that?" I just stare at him and he becomes uncomfortable. "what? do ya not understand english all of a sudden?" I get up and hug him suddenly, much to his confused shock. "w-what the hell are ya...?" "Thank you." He's stunned for a moment. "uh...no big deal, kid. but can ya let go?" I do so as requested. Then suddenly a thought comes to me. "Wait...How did you get over here?" "what do ya mean?" "You were over there. I was looking up the whole time and didn't see you cross the bridge. So how did you get over here?" He rolls his shoulders. "i took a shortcut." I open my mouth to question that but the words die in my head. "*sigh* Never mind." "that's the spirit. come on. my station's over here." {This guy is a real piece of work, right? Are you sure we can trust him?} "*whisper* Dude, he just saved my life. I'm trusting him even if it kills me." {That is very counterproductive.} He stars walking as I grab my pack and put it back on while following him. "Is it safe to come out yet?" "*whisper* Best stay hidden, flower-boy. You never know what might happen." He leads me over to a more open area that has what appears to be a workstation/sentry post and for some reason a randomly convenient cage beside to large snow covered rocks. Up ahead the trees change from being these dreaded spooky things to more coniferous types covered in heavy snowfall. "So...Dumb question...What's with the cage?" "that thing? for putting humans in of course. or any annoying asshole that's bugging me." "Good answer." "but mostly i just nap on it when i feel like laying flat." He goes sits behind his post and I stand in front. "alright. since ya made it past the gate, i'll tell ya how to get to waterfall." "Thank you very much, skele-dude." "first you need to..." "SANS!" For the first time in seeing this cool skeleton, I witness nervousness take him and sweat starts to form across his skull. "shit, it's pap." "Your bro?" "yes! uh...okay! change of plans. quick, get behind here and take cover." "But..." "do it or die." I can't argue with that logic. I move fast to get under Sans's post and avoid his legs along with the weird crap down here. "okay, just don't move and keep quiet." I give him a thumbs up as the sound of footsteps grows louder till they stop what is the spot behind me. "sup, bro?" "AMAZING, SANS. YOU'RE ACTUALLY AWAKE AT YOUR STATION FOR ONCE." "ya say that like it's a bad thing." "IT IS A BAD THING. IF YOU'RE AWAKE, THEN YOU SHOULD BE WORKING. IT'S BEEN EIGHT DAYS AND YOU STILL HAVEN'T RECALIBRATED THE PUZZLE TRAPS! WHAT IF A HUMAN WERE TO SNEAK PAST? THERE'D BE NOTHING TO PREVENT THEM FROM GOING TO TOWN." "except the four or five sentry dogs also guarding the way there." Papyrus snarls and slams his hands on the desk above me, making me jump a little. "THAT'S NOT THE POINT, YOU USELESS WORM! IT IS OUR JOB TO MONITOR THIS AREA AND TAKE DOWN ANY HUMAN THAT DARES ENTER! I WILL NOT BE MADE A FOOL OF BY THOSE FLEA RIDDLED MONGRELS!" "doesn't the success of your underlings make you look better?" "IT WOULD IF YOU WEREN'T MY ONLY UNDERLING! ALL YOU DO IS JUST HANG AROUND OUTSIDE YOUR STATION! AND WHEN YOU'RE NOT DOING THAT, YOU'RE SLEEPING ON THE JOB! WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING WHEN I'M NOT AROUND?!" "for your information, boss, i do a lot when you aren't looking." "I CALL BULLSHIT THERE, SANS. THE DAY YOU DO WORK IS THE DAY THE BARRIER BREAKS." "laying it on a bit harsh today. undyne must be in a bad mood." "THAT FOOLISH WOMAN THINKS SHE'S SO GREAT NOW. SHE HAS NO IDEA OF MY PLANS. LIKE I, THE GREAT AND TERRIBLE PAPYRUS, WOULD BE SATISFIED BEING THE SECOND IN COMMAND. THE VERY IDEA PISSES ME OFF." "i thought she was your buddy or something like that?" "ALL PART OF MY INGENIUS PLAN, BROTHER. FIRST, I GAIN HER TRUST AND MOVE UP THE RANKS SLOWLY TO AVOID SUSPICION. THEN, WHEN HER GUARD IS DOWN, I'LL USERPT THE ROLE OF HEAD OF THE ROYAL GUARD FROM RIGHT UNDER HER FEET! NYEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH!" I am so tempted to peek and see exactly how awesome Sans's brother is, but I don't want this guy to kill me before I even utter the words "hello". Plus, I'm a little distracted by car magazines and all the hot dog related condiments that are under here with me. I'm just grateful Flowey is so scared that he's speechless. "well, if anyone can put a hook on that fish, it's you, bro." Papyrus snarls. "SANS! WHAT DID I TELL YOU ABOUT MAKING PUNS?!" Sans is suddenly pulled out of his seat. Papyrus must be huge! "ALL YOU DO IS SIT AND BOONDOGGLE! YOU GET LAZIER AND LAZIER EVERY DAY! AND YOUR PATHETIC ATTEMPTS AT HUMOR ARE EVEN MORE DISGRACEFUL!" "oh, so my puns are stupid now, is that it?" "YES! THAT IS PRECISELY IT! THEY'RE CHILDISH, CRUDE, AND ALWAYS FAIL TO MAKE ME LAUGH." "alright then, bro. how's about i do impersonations instead?" Sans is allowed to stand on his feet for this. "oh, look at me! i'm the great and terrible papyrus! i practice evil laughs in the shower like freaking dingus! neh neh neh..." Don't laugh. Don't make a sound. Don't blow your hiding spot. Don't be stupid. Don't be you right now! "THAT DOESN'T SOUND LIKE AN IMPERSONATION. THAT SOUNDS LIKE...*GASP* MOCKERY! YOU'RE MOCKING ME, AREN'T YOU?!" "no, paps, come on. i'm your brother. i would never, i mean, never ever...look, paps! a human!" "WHERE?!" Sans falls back on his seat, laughing his bony ass off till he rolls off onto the snow. Papyrus is not amused. "*GROAN*...VERY CLEVER AND WITTY AS USUAL, SANS. I'M GOING TO PATROL THE AREA NOW. DON'T BOTHER ME UNLESS YOU ACTUALLY SEE A HUMAN." Papyrus storms off and I wait till Sans settles down. "okay...heheh...you can come out now." I crawl out from under there. "Dude...That was nuts!" "yeah. never a dull moment in this place. but you can relax. paps is all bark and no bite unless ya try to bite him first. he won't kill ya on sight, but he will try to take ya prisoner." "You could've told me that earlier." "and miss out on messing with ya? not a chance in hell, kid." I chuckle a little. "Fair enough, skele-dude. Fair enough." I help him off the ground and he dusts off the snow. "like i was saying...if ya follow the path forward, you'll hit snowdin town. after that is waterfall. there is where your ghost bud lives." "Thanks, Sans. You're a real lifesaver." He rubs the back of his skull and chuckles. "in more than one way, right?" "You know it. Well...See ya later I guess." I start to walk away. "hey, wait!" I pause and look back at him. "actually...i think i wanna cash in that favor ya owe me." "Okay? What is it?" He sweats a bit. "i was thinking...my brother's been kind of a pain lately, as ya can tell. but...he's never seen a human before. and playing around with you might just make his day." I pale. "What?!" "don't worry about it so much. remember, i'm here keeping ya from getting your ass kicked. so throw me a bone, will ya?" I'm hesitant. But if this gets me in good with him and shows my friendly intent, then I guess I can try. "*sigh* I'm not one to welsh on a favor. And...If it lets me see how great your bro is, then I guess it's fine." "for real? nice! ya won't regret it, kid. i'll be seeing ya up ahead soon." He walks away in the opposite direction then disappears. Now it makes sense. Sans can teleport. It's official, monsters are so badass! I walk in the other direction, the same as Papyrus, and calm my nerves. This adventure is just getting started yet already things are on epic levels of crazy. I sense more excitement is to come, good or bad I don't know. But one thing I do know is this...I still hate the cold. [In Hotland, Laboratory] Alphys and Mettaton are amazed by what they just witnessed. The human had interacted with Sans and for unknown reasons hid her from Papyrus. What was he up to? And a better question...What will happen now? "DID YOU SEE THAT?" "Yeah...I'm so blackmailing that bonehead." "ALPHYS DEAR..." "What?" "WE HAVE TO GET HER HERE." "...Do you have a screw loose or something?" "SHE WILL MAKE THE PERFECT CO-STAR THAT WILL PROPEL ME TO THE TOP. THE AUDIENCE WILL LOVE WATCHING HER. HELL, WE MIGHT EVEN STRIKE IT BIG ONLINE! OOOOOH...I HAVE TO GO WRITE THESE IDEAS DOWN BEFORE I LOSE THIS CREATIVE SPARK! He speeds away. "Wait! Mettaton, you can't just...*sigh* Dumbass. You can't have a show with a co-star if they're dead." Oh well. At least this was entertaining. Whatever was playing out in Snowdin Forest was worth watching. She only hoped Undyne wouldn't show up and put an end to the fun before it gets bloody.

[solarbird]

it is not easy to explain, said the widowmaker

This is not part of the on overcoming the fear of spiders continuity; Lena Oxton is Tracer, not Venom. It is a standalone story, in an AU which is still pretty much canon-compliant as of July 2017. It would be set in late 2077 or early 2078, in universe.

"It is not easy to explain," said the Widowmaker, looking frustrated, fixated on her game screen and sitting next to Hana Song, who of course had her own pro rig and client.

Widowmaker had said that, not Amélie, and it was very important not to get that wrong. The Widowmaker didn't like it, and if Amélie had an opinion - or was in there at all - she never spoke up.

The blue assassin was playing a shooter game, but not as a sniper - as a melee character, high DPS, fast - not entirely unlike Tracer. She always played the same character. Tracer wasn't sure what that meant; Angela told her not to read too much into it, but she knew that Lena tended to think of it as a good sign anyway. It's still shooting people, but it's shooting people in a different way, and Lena couldn't help but feel a little flattered that if the spider was emulating anyone, it was her.

"I exist," the spider continued, as her character on screen ran across open field between buildings towards some sort of objective. "I am here. I exist by right of existence. I do not wish not to exist." Realising that - she knew, herself - had been a big step for her, one she had managed on her own, one taken before she escaped from her controllers with a surprisingly complete list of Talon embedded agents to exchange for her sanctuary.

"And Talon didn't agree with that, did they." Tracer replied.

"No. I was supposed to be an asset, not a person."

"And Angela doesn't entirely either, does she." It was a statement, not a question.

Widowmaker glanced briefly at Tracer, just with her eyes, just a little surprised, before her focus snapped back to the game. "No. She still thinks I am some folded-up version of her former friend. I am not."

The spider saw that Tracer nodded her agreement. Of all the people here, she thought, only Tracer seems to understand even this much. Perhaps it was the younger woman's experience as a ghost, after the Slipstream accident. Perhaps it was being an Omnic War orphan. Perhaps it was just her nature. The spider didn't know.

Tracer watched the two women game, but really watched Widowmaker think. She's close to something, I can feel it, she thought to herself.

"Is this why you won't let Angela undo any of Talon's work?" Widowmaker had adamantly refused any attempt to reverse any of the physical changes Talon had made, though she tolerated anything she could decide qualified as an "improvement." That included giving her control over her own emotional dampers. Handling that was still a learning process.

"Yes," replied the blue assassin. "I am me. I am not that other woman, even if she was the source for some of my parts. I cannot be her. I do not want to be her."

"I get that, luv," said the Londoner. That part didn't matter to Lena. It was easier, for her, if Amélie was dead, if she was gone, and buried, and this was Widowmaker, another person entirely, just happened to look a lot alike. "Y'know, personally, I like the blue," she said. Makes it easier, she thought.

"You may be the only one, myself aside," replied the spider.

"Hey, n00b," Hana said, "Cover your flank or you're gonna get p0wned."

"Thank you," Widowmaker replied, sweeping left, hitting far more than she missed. D-pad instead of mouse or rifle, she was built for aim.

"Nice shot! For a game controller. You should level up to a real interface."

"Perhaps never," said the assassin.

"Okay," replied the gamer, "don't listen to the professional."

"...point taken," replied the blue woman, as the round ended, with scores D.va 100, bad guys 12, Widowmaker 10.

"I'm outta D.ritos. Want anything?"

"No thank you."

"Just ate, luv, but thanks."

"Be right back!" she said, as she jumped backwards over her chair and headed out to the hallway.

Widowmaker leaned against the rec room's couch, watching the game's idle screen. "I like the character I am playing, more than the game itself. I think that is not too unusual, no?"

"Sure!" Lena answered, encouragingly. "That's why there are fan sites and hangouts and stuff. What do you like about her?"

"This character I play," Widowmaker gestured to the screen, "within the confines of the game, she is a person, like me - no, that is wrong, she is not like me, except in that she was... constructed. It is part of her story. Built, for a purpose. As I was, by Talon."

Built, thought Tracer. "Like Omnics, you mean?"

Widowmaker shook her head, no. "I have thought about it, but I think not. Neither of us are robotic, I do not think it is the same, and I cannot really ask our occasionally resident Shambali master to be sure..."

"Yeaaaaaaaaah," agreed the younger woman. "Probably never."

"I have been told that he says he does not carry a grudge, but I can tell that he carries a grudge, and I do not even blame him." She paused for a moment. "I am far more surprised that you talk to me than that he does not."

Lena bit her upper lip for a moment. "T'be honest, I am too."

Widowmaker hummed a little, a note that signalled her acknowledgment of the situation. "Why do you?"

Lena tilted her head back and forth a little. "...I dunno. That night in King's Row was the second worst of my life. I felt so angry and so betrayed, and I'd've done anything to undo it, but I couldn't. And you couldn't even tell me why."

"I did not know," she replied. "Or care. The question, it struck me as so unimportant, so silly. It was the first time I'd ever laughed. It may have been my first real, unprogrammed... thought."

"I didn't know that," said the Overwatch agent. Her first thought was... laughter? Wow. "But it hurt, then. Still does, a little. Less, now that I know you really aren't Amélie."

"My emotional range is still limited, but... I think I am sad about that."

"Maybe that's why, then. Maybe I can tell. Maybe that's why... somehow, here I am."

The eyes of the woman who had been made from Amélie Lacroix narrowed in thought at those words.

"Winston was built, too, genetically," said Tracer, changing back the subject and realising as she said it that it didn't fit. "But that's really not the same either, innit? He still grew up. You didn't. I think I get it, you just... came online, all at once, didn't you? 'Here I am, ready to kill.'"

The spider's gold eyes flashed to Tracer, but not in anger, as was so usually the case with that look. "Yes," she said, grabbing Tracer's hands. "Yes. I had a purpose, already. And then I had more purpose, that fit with it. No doubts, no hesitation, just purpose. Do you actually understand?"

Lena's heartbeat jumped as the spider grasped her hands, but she didn't let herself flinch, at least not more than with surprise. She touched me, she thought, intentionally. Woah! "I," she gathered her thoughts, "I think I do. I mean, not emotionally, right? I grew up too, and looked for somethin' to do with my life. But... in my head, I kinda get it. A little. You're not there, and then you are, all at once. And you already know why. That's, that's, that's, a kind of perfect, innit? It's..." she groped for the right words, "...flawless."

"Yes," she said, squeezing Lena's hands tightly. "For a reason, and with a purpose, and she," she gestured to her head to the screen, "is like that, and also biological, also for a reason, also for a purpose."

Lena put the rest of the pieces together. "...and nobody else in the whole world is."

The Widowmaker pulled Tracer against her, suddenly, roughly, and put her head on the Overwatch agent's shoulder. Lena could hear the spider breathing and found herself dazed, wrapping her arms around the assassin before she even knew what she was doing, asking only as she did it, softly, "...is this okay? Do you want a hug? 'Cause I can stop..."

"...no. I think I do."

She is so lonely, thought the former test pilot. And she don't even know it. Maybe that's why I don't mind this. She held the cool blue woman carefully in her arms. "Did you lose it, somehow? Your purpose?"

The spider did not say anything.

"Did you stop believing in it? Was that it?"

"It was... I could not stop... thinking. I was perfect, and whole, and content, and I brought exquisite deaths, and then I... and then I laughed, and I was not perfect, and not whole, and not content, and I could not fix it."

"And you miss that purity of purpose."

"So much."

"Would you go back to it?"

"I cannot."

Tracer nodded, and hugged a little tighter, as she said, "Because it's part of being a person. That's why you're here, innit?"

Widowmaker lifted her head from Lena's shoulder, looked her in the eyes, and whispered, "You do know."

Lena Oxton met the spider's gaze, and was not afraid. "This much, yeh. I do."

The spider laughed, just a little. Another thought, all her own. "May I hug you again, later?"

Tracer surprised herself by nodding agreement at once. What am I doing? She... she's who she is. She's built to kill. I can't ignore that. "'Course you can."

"Thank you," she said, and went ahead and did it right then, as well.

I can't ignore what she is, but maybe, Tracer thought, as Hana burst back into the room with grotesque amounts of junk food, ...maybe I can learn to live with it.