#nice it's like u reached into my soul and pulled him right outta there

[heich0e]

sofia is keeping me up to date with her A Sign of Affection viewing experience and we are BOTH certain that oushi is in fact a man who was made Specifically For Me

[murdersexual]

Heeeyyyy can I get an leorio nsfw alphabet 👉🏼👈🏼

6 FUCKING DAYS OVERDUE! I AM SO FUCKING SORRY! 🥲

I am terribly RUSTY at doing NSFW Alphabet. 😥😥😥 I had POSTING anxiety because of it. 😰😰😰

Feel free to challenge me to one liner fics, more alpha, and blah.

🚨WARNING MOTHAFUCKAHS🚨 (You’re all not mothafuckahs! I’m sorry 😥)

-RATED MA.

-STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT.

-NOT PROOFREAD!

-May contain HELLA mistakes.

NOW, WITHOUT FURTHER ADO... READETH THE SHIT!

And now presenting...

Murdersexual’s Leorio - NSFW Alphabet!

A = Aftercare (what they’re like after sex)

After a long round of position switching, tender and breathy whispers, passionately rough love making, just know you’re in the hands of a natural caretaker. Leorio’s the type to have an atmosphere made for the absolute best of comfort. If you’re at his spot, he’ll have the finest of AC in his room, a mini fridge full of various chilled drinks for you to pick from, the most fluffiest of blankets and most plush of pillows—unless you rather his chest be your pillow—all for you to be at ease. He’s the type to lay back and relax, maybe crack a few jokes while giving you compliments to your sex game. And after you both catch your breath? A round two or three or four maybe possible~

B = Body part (their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

On you? Everything is perfect. There’s not anything to love about you! And on him? Well the same goes for that matter. There’s not a day where he won’t stand in the mirror and smirk with radiant confident and say: “Hmph, I look good~”

C = Cum (anything to do with cum, basically)

Facials are a yes for him! To see your face highlighted from his cum will never fail to turn him all the way on~ That and if you’re giving him the most soul-sucking of blowjobs, watching you swallow his cum is always a win. 💦 Glazing your ass in his ‘glaze’ is one of his favourites as well. Especially since his pull out game is IMMACULATE.

D = Dirty secret (pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

There’s more or less not a day where he’d come up with some pretty risky and outrageous fantasies. From the craziest of roleplays, using new props, being in very risky locations—like a dressing room in a clothing store. It’s never dull with him regardless but he rather not reveal such to you for he may or may not like to keep you guessing.

(For fucksake, I SUCK at these... 🥲)

E = Experience (how experienced are they? do they know what they’re doing?)

Hell to fuck yeah he knows what he’s doing! He’s more or less the one who’s hella encouraging and motivating to you to try all of the craziest shit he’s tried during his first time.

F = Favorite position (this goes without saying)

Missionary with one leg propped up on his muscular ass shoulder. Watching your expressions as he hits all of your sweet spots while secretly testing your flexibility is why he adores this one. Then there’s Doggystyle. He can never get enough of going to pound town until you try to put a hand on his thigh. Hell, prepare to get your hand smacked away or pinned to your lower back. That and he’ll make you throw it back~

G = Goofy (are they more serious in the moment? are they humorous? etc.)

It depends! But more or less, he will crack a joke or two here and there, anything to have a quick breathy laugh. After all, not all bedroom action has to be so boring, right?

H = Hair (how well groomed are they? does the carpet match the drapes? etc.)

Oohhh, he’s rather nicely set down below. His happy trail is rather light, tamed and pretty fine.

I = Intimacy (how are they during the moment? the romantic aspect)

It’s always going to be passionately romantic. From touches, kisses, the low and soft whispers of genuine admiration and love… Just him having that naturally gentle sensuality is what makes every little second all the more euphoric~

J = Jack off (masturbation headcanon)

When he’s far away, there’s never time he doesn’t think about you. But when you send him some rather teasing photos, the temptation can’t be helped!

K = Kink (one or more of their kinks)

Satin ribbons, roleplay and domination seems like plausible kinks. Tying you up in some satin ribbons, just to see the deep colours against your skin looks amazing to him. Roleplay? Oh my, since he’s most definitely in school to be a doctor, let’s just say you’re going to always be his favourite patient to tend to~ Domination? He’s going to always be on top unless you somehow charm your way to making him beg for mercy. He’s going to always command you to throw that ass back and so on~

L = Location (favorite places to do the do)

He’s a much more of a private type of guy, so more or less anywhere in his place—dorm or whatever. That means, couch, bed, shower, hell, even the wall! Oh, kitchen table! Maybe even bend your ass over the counter~ Same goes for your place~

M = Motivation (what turns them on, gets them going)

Teasing is a big one as well as when you’re mad at him. It’s lowkey kinda hot to him, especially since he’ll fuck your attitude away.

N = No (something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Don’t tell him you want some other guy fucking you while he watches. He’ll cuss you out and probably not want to see you for the rest of the day. That and he would never do anything that you wouldn’t want to.

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)

Watch out, his tongue game is fuego. 👅💦 He will give and he’ll make sure that he receives! There’s no half and no other half!

P = Pace (are they fast and rough? slow and sensual? etc.)

Starting out, his stroke game will be slow and long with a few twists and wiggle of his hips. He may slowly pull out all the way until the tip is all that remains inside. Midway? Stroke game gets shorter and quicker, and he’ll reach even further on the inside. After discovering all of your spots, you’re going to feel every little bit of him. He wants your legs to shake, hips to quiver, back to arch and toes and fingers to curl.

Q = Quickie (their opinions on quickies, how often, etc.)

Quickies before his early morning class or before he heads out. He doesn’t mind one as long as you’re down for it.

R = Risk (are they game to experiment? Do they take risks? etc.)

He loves to experiment! He’s open to MOST ideas! The riskier the more tempting. Ask him to fuck in public or in a car across from the police station, he’ll be down for it. 😏

S = Stamina (how many rounds can they go for? how long do they last?)

His stamina is OUT OF THIS WORLD! 😏 Hopefully you can keep up~ Rounds? Probably about 4? Maybe 5! There’s no telling. He’ll go until his balls are completely drained~

T = Toys (do they own toys? do they use them? on a partner or themselves?)

Ah, does fuzzy handcuffs and satin ribbons count? 👀 You can T R Y to use it on him but his strong ass will break out of them~

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

He teases waayyyy too much! 😤 It’s even worse when he’s far away visiting his friends, he’s always FaceTiming or Skyping you looking way too fucking good... But when he gets back to you, he’ll pay for it! Not that he’d complain right?

V = Volume (how loud they are, what sounds they make, etc.)

Typically, he’s loud when he’s snappy, but in the bedroom? His voice is much quieter... Suave and low. His grunts and moans are pretty quiet but when he’s fucking you outta anger or if he’s drunk? He’s pretty loud~

W = Wild card (a random headcanon for the character)

He has a lot of pornographic magazines and Kama sutra books. He’ll fold the pages with some key positions or outfits he may want to try with you.

X = X-ray (let’s see what’s going on under those clothes)

Beneath those clothes, you’ll come to see that Leorio is far more muscular than what he appears. He also has a ‘third’ leg down below that’s pretty flesh coloured, long and girthy. Since most of the things he wears is pretty fitted, you can never miss what’s packing in those boxer briefs and beneath that tank top and long sleeved button up.

Y = Yearning (how high is their sex drive?)

His sex drive is pretty high. (I mean duh, he’s a goddamn sex symbol. 😏) However, its controllable. You can always tell from the way his eyes scan you up and down and how he smirks with a soft bit of his bottom lip.

Z = Zzz (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

YOU will ALWAYS be the first to fall asleep! There are times where he wanna fall asleep first with you but he’s more or less up doing any homework assignments or talking to his squad. Maybe even cleaning up then hitting the showers. His domestic ways are one of his biggest secrets.

You may now applaud!

Encore?

Thank you for the request! 😅 Sorry it’s not as good, I really... REALLY tried. 👉🏼👈🏼 I may actually have to come back and do this over... Because Leorio DESERVES! 😤 My little (tall) Koi Fish deserves waaayyyyy more love! (I really tried with the aesthetic omfuck...)

[kalypsichor]

and they were quARANTINED [a beatles fic] - ch 1

summary: George takes a shit. Ringo braves a trip to the tescos and loses a bit of his soul. John harrasses the general public and Paul’s just trying to get them home before they kill each other. All while a virus tears the world apart.

warnings: CRACK (not cocaine), geo’s bad potty habits, ringo’s copious use of emojis

so, this is different... but i’ve always been a crack fic writer at heart. this is the result of being quarantined myself due to COVID-19. i’ve been seeing so much fear and frustration and hatred that i just wanted to write about it kinda cathartically. enjoy!

Unfortunately, George doesn’t realize that they’re out of toilet paper until after he’s taken a shit.

“Fuck,” he mutters. “Ringo?”

No answer.

“Ringooooooooo. RINGO!!!”

George’s legs are starting to lose feeling. He bounces them up and down a bit and the motion almost makes him drop his phone in the toilet.

“RICHARD FUCKING STARKEY!”

There’s the sound of footsteps and then a pause before Ringo answers.

“What’s up?”

“What took you so long?”

“Had my headphones in. Sorry I couldn’t be at your beck and call, O Lord of the Loo.”

“SHUT up. Look, do we have any more loo roll?”

A pause. “Why, are we out?”

George rolls his eyes so hard he sees stars. “No, I’m askin’ for the banter.”

“I’ll go check. Don’t move!”

George can almost see the shit-eating (heh) grin on his mate’s face as he walks away. With a sigh and some choice curse words that would make Louise cry, George pulls out his phone again. Opens Twitter. Sees yet another tweet from that spraytanned clown across the pond. Closes Twitter and contemplates deleting it. After about three rounds of this, Ringo comes back and knocks on the door.

“We’re all out. Got you some tissues, though.”

Krishna help me. George tips his head back against the wall and thumps it a few times for good measure.

“Thanks,” he says flatly. “Could you- ?”

The door opens just a smidge before he can finish talking there’s a flying blur of Kleenex box, a blinding pain in the side of his head, and a sickening crACK—

***

“I’m really sorry,” Ringo says for the millionth time, hovering over George as he examines the spiderweb of cracks on his phone screen. George huffs. He wants to be mad, he really does, but Ringo’s face is doing that stupid thing where his eyes are very, very blue and droopy and his teeth are worrying his bottom lip and it’s obvious that he’s genuinely remorseful and—fuck, he’s got it bad.

“It’s fine,” George insists, even though he can hear his bank account having a fit. “Piece of shit phone, anyway. And look, it still works!” Very shittily, his brain adds, but that’s what you get with a five year old phone.

The older boy’s eyes still have an unconvinced, sad look about them and George wishes he could kiss it away. No homo, though.

“How can I make it up to you?” George’s brain does a slutdrop into the gutter. “I’ll… I’ll get the groceries! How ‘bout that?”

“NO!” Scrambling off the couch, George just barely misses smacking noses with Ringo. “What about the… the virus?”

“I’ll wear a mask and all. Wash hands for twenty seconds, stay six feet away from people… am I missing anything?”

“Yeah, the quarantine bit.”

Ringo snorts and puts a hand on George’s arm. “Quit your worrying, Geo. I’ll be fine. Haven’t John and Paul been out all day?”

***

John and Paul want to go the fuck home. They’d walked all the way to a new art gallery opening only to find out it was cancelled (“Why didn’t you check Google?” “Why didn’t you?”). And now, both being tired as hell from their long trek, they couldn’t even flag down a single cab to take them home.

“This is the worst thing ever,” John cries, flopping his entire body down on a park bench. Paul rolls his eyes and lifts up John’s stupidly long legs so he can sit down as well.

“People are dying, John.”

“I feel like I’m dying.”

“John.”

“Okay, fine, maybe I’m being dramatic. But this stupid… thing… is fucking up all our plans!”

“It’s not fucking Voldemort, you can say the name.”

“Alright, fine. Coronavirus. CORONAVIRUS. You happy, Paul?”

A woman hurrying by shoots them a wide-eyed, nervous look and crosses the street, tugging a little boy by the hand.

“... bitch.”

“Jesus, John.” Paul pinches the bridge of his nose. “I’d do that too if some rando was shouting in the streets.”

“Yeah, but she didn’t hafta shoot that nasty look at us… did you see that? Paul?”

“Hold on, hold on.” His phone is vibrating in his pocket and he fumbles to pull it out. “Your stupid legs are in the way.”

John huffs and makes a show of wiggling said legs, almost kicking Paul in the face. Still, he tucks them to his chest (flexible, Paul thinks and then instantly regrets) so that Paul can take out the buzzing rectangle.

--

bongo: do u or john want anything? 🤔🤔

bongo: like groceries

bongo: going to tescos

Shouldnt you be quarantining?

bongo: ur literally at an art museum 😂

It’s a gallery

And it got cancelled :/

bongo: oop sorry m8 thats tough

bongo: srsly tho whaddaya want

We need more vegetables. Carrots, etc

--

“Tell him to get cornflakes,” John says, peering over Paul’s shoulder. He’s sat up and practically draped over Paul’s lap. Paul sighs and shoves his legs off, ignoring the indignant squawk the other boy makes when he almost falls off the bench.

--

Also that cornflake cereal stuff

bongo: k

bongo: tell john i said hi

Heyyyyyy rich wots up

Paulie’s being a bitch he pushed me :((((

Why is his auto caps on lsdnfol

--

“Give it back!”

“Ow! Ow stop hitting me Jesus fuckin-”

--

Sorry that was john

bongo: yeah i could tell lmao

bongo: where are u guys??

Stuck at some park. Can’t get any cabs home

bongo: well duh coronavirus 😷😷😷

bongo: bad time to be a cabbie man 😔

Yeah yikes

Pick up some rice for george too

And hand sanitizer

bongo: ill try but twitter says handsan itizer is going fast

bongo: what the fuc why did it space like that

Lol

bongo: oh also

bongo: geos being a mother hen and making me wear a face mask

bongo: u know where they are?

Second drawer down in the bathroom, behind the rubber gloves

bongo: … how did u reply SO fast

Uh i know where things are in our flat? Like a normal person?

bongo: thats sus but ok

bongo: wow theyre actually here

bongo: okay imma head out before it gets dark

What’s after dark? Zombies?

bongo: u never no

bongo: *no

bongo: FUCKING *KNOW

Nice

Okay stay safe ritch

bongo: 😘🙃👍🏼✌🏼✌🏼🌈🌟🥦🥦🥦☮️

***

Ringo has never seen this many people at Tesco in his entire life. Two grown men are having a full on argument in the pastries. A harried-looking dad almost knocks Ringo into a rack of Twinkies, pulling along two screaming kids with one slung on his hip. And… is that person actually wearing a Hazmat suit??

“This is insane,” Ringo mutters to himself, slightly muffled due to the face mask. He just needs to find the loo roll and then he’s going to yeet outta here ASAP.

Okay, hygiene aisle… here we g—what the—

The entire aisle is empty.

It’s like a goddamn Old Western. Just add a cow skull… cue the tumbleweed… and it would be perfect.

Not for the first time that day, Ringo sends a prayer to whoever is listening above. There’s got to be something left. He walks down to the end of the aisle. Walks back. Jumps a couple times to check if there’s anything on the top shelf. Sincerely hopes no one just saw him do that. Finally, shoved at the very back behind a couple of Always boxes, Ringo digs out a dusty as shit six-pack of toilet paper.

Well. It’ll have to do.

As he’s walking to the check out lines, a woman drops her bottle of hand sanitizer. It rolls across the floor in a perfect arc and Ringo scoops it up before it can get too far.

“Oops, you dropped this!” He says cheerily, handing it to her. Well, trying to. The woman makes a strangled noise in the back of her throat, physically flinches away from his outstretched hand, and almost drops the rest of her groceries. Before Ringo can react, she’s disappeared behind the produce aisle.

Ringo’s arm falls to his side. He stares at the space where she was just a second ago and holds in a scream.

“More for us, I guess.”

***

By the time Ringo reaches the flat, he’s ready to never see another person again. He trudges right past George in the kitchen, dropping the groceries on the table with a thwack. John hums a greeting to him in the living room and offers him a biscuit.

“No thanks,” Ringo says. He faceplants into the couch.

Something clinks onto the coffee table. Well, coffee table is one way to put it; it’s more of a hunk of stone from back when Paul thought he was going to be the next Michelangelo and get really into classical sculpture. It now sits in the living room and primarily holds George’s textbooks, plus takeout for whenever they don’t feel like cooking (which is all the time), so you can see how that panned out for Paul.

“Tea for you,” George says. He plops onto the floor between the couch and the table and runs a friendly, comforting hand through Ringo’s hair. Ringo practically purrs, leaning into the touch, and George feels his heart melt and trickle through his ribs. “You okay?”

“I’ve lost all faith in humanity,” Ringo mumbles into the cushion. John reaches over and pats him on the back.

“Don’t worry, Ringo. There won’t be any humans to have faith in soon.”

George throws a packet of sugar at John who dodges it, snickering. Ringo groans and tries to sink even deeper into the couch.

And that’s when they hear Paul scream.

[sansfangirl4life-blog]

Bestial Purity Chapter 1

So here is the first chapter for my GHorrorFellxHuman Lost story! I sure hope y’all like it! Sorry if it seems slow, trying to build a bit of a world up after all XD If you have any questions, feel free to ask me!

Lost is mine, and GHorrorFellSans and Paps belong to @zwagyzonk  

Chapter 1

The loud crack of a whip filled the cold, winter air around him and the sudden split of skin made him scream in pain. E...Endure...just......just endure....! He repeated in his head as he gritted his teeth. After three more lashes with the whip, he felt the cuffs holding him up release his wrists and he fell limply to the cold ground. "N...Ngh...."

"Damned freak...." He felt a boot hit his already bruised side, making him cough in pain and curl up slightly on the dirt covered ground. "You freaks are the reason the monsters are here! Useless, worthless monster born freaks!" A few more solid kicks later and he could hear the crowd slowly trickle away. He struggled to sit up, his chest burning with pain.

"Ngh......cracked ribs most likely..." He whispered. He slowly opened his eyes, ruby and sapphire eyes peering into the shadows of the night. He stood slowly, his bare feet barely registering the sting and cuts of rocks as he walked back to an old shack. "It'll take a bit to heal..." His stomach seemed to groan in pain, the tightening sensation of hunger not unfamiliar to him. He made his way to a small, dirty cot and curled up onto it, shivering slightly from the cold.

"You awake?" He glanced to see a young girl walk over to him, holding a thread bear green blanket. "You'll need it. You-"

"No Minnie. You....you're with child. You cannot give that to me." He coughed. 

"You-"

"Sweetie, the chance of this child even surviving is slim to none." She whispered, her voice sad and it made the young man's Soul clench painfully. 

"You're the youngest one here and you need it, especially after that lashing." He sighed and let her cover him up. He winced as the rough fabric seemed to catch in his injuries, making him grit his teeth and hiss in pain. "Sorry! Did I-"

"You didn't do anything....I'm alright...." He sighed, giving her a thankful look. She pat his sweat covered black locks, walking and heading back to a lower cot. He trembled and looked up to a large hole in the roof, the moon shining down gently on the run down shack. I'm not the child of monsters.... He thought and scowled slightly. He held his hand out, and red magic crackled gently in his palm. Well...not the monsters from the woods anyways...

He propped himself up carefully on his elbows, the old cot sagging slightly. "We need to escape...we need-" Something hard hit his head and he flinched, rubbing the spot on his forehead. His fingers came back stained red and he scowled.

"Fucking freak! It's your fault that we're in this shithole in the first place!"

"Evan, enough!" Minnie snapped from her cot. "We're all here because we were sold here!"

"Yeah well things we're a bit easier before he showed up!" A grizzled man peeked over from the bed above Minnie, his hair a shaggy, brown mess and one green eye glaring at the pale young man. "Now they lash out at us more and-"

"ENOUGH!" Minnie shouted, glaring at him with her furious blue eyes. "It doesn't matter if he has magic or not! He's still human, like us. He's still got a human Soul inside him." Evan tsked and retreated back to his bed. Minnie carefully adjusted herself and swiftly fell asleep, leaving the young man alone to his thoughts.

Human.....what does that even mean anymore? His red and blue gaze looked back up to the moon. I don't think anyone is human anymore... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The snow crunched under his boots, his breath leaving cold puffs in the air. "Hmm mm mmm~...." He hummed to himself as the moon shone above. "What a lovely night out, hmm?" He turned to look over his shoulder and chuckled. "Aww, nothing to say?" He turned to the corpse behind him, the body leaving trails of blood through the snow. "I know, it's my looks, isn't it?" He chuckled darkly, his left eye glowing gently in the night. "Ah well, I wasn't expecting a 'live' audience anyways."

He kneeled down and tied a rope to the ankles of the corpse, humming as he swung it over a branch. "But you see, we have these rules for the Hunter's Forest." He let out a soft, almost insane chuckle as he pulled the corpse slowly up the branch. "Humans stay out and leave us alone...but if they come here, they're all fair game." He finished and tied the rope around the trunk, sighing as he wiped at his skull. "But humans don't get that. You guys all try to run and hide, or even fight back. Tsk, it's so stupid. As if you stand even a remote chance."

He slapped at the body, giving it a gentle tap with the flat side of his large bone axe. "Yup, most humans know full well to avoid this place. Luckily you didn't...otherwise I wouldn't be having this conversation with you." He pulled out a small bone knife and carved away at the carcass, taking a few things and putting them into a plastic bag.

He backed away slightly as shadows loomed in the darkness, hungry eyes glowing from the shadows of the trees. "Sadly, me and my brother have already eaten and well....gotta make sure our normal stock of meat is fed. So....bone appetite~!" He winked and turned his back as growls and roars filled the silence of the night, followed by the sounds of ripping and tearing. "Hmmm mmmm~..."

"B....Bro....ther...." The skeleton stopped and turned to see an even taller skeleton emerge from behind a tree. He was wearing a thin, two tailed black coat and glasses on his face. He had a tan turtle neck on under the coat, his pants long and hugging his legs. His jaws were impossibly large, the teeth long and sharp. He grunted and nodded at his slightly shorter brother, holding a sticky note pad out and a deep, red pen.

"Leaving notes again Paps?" He received a nod and he chuckled. "You do realize no human has ever made it to the village, right?" He received another nod and a soft grunt. "Yeah well that's just how it is. They trap us underground for over 100 years and expect us to be nice? Tsk, bunch of fucking stupid wishing." He growled and reached up, scratching at the gaping hole in his head. 

"Not that I can really remember much of when we got outta there, but-"

"Grrngh...." Papyrus grabbed his wrist and scowled at him, stopping him from scratching.

"Heh, sorry bro. Didn't mean to put you on edge." G shrugged and looked up at the moon. He reached down into the small plastic bag he had and handed two, large eyes, the blood dripping onto the snow. "Here ya go bro. Enjoy." He reached down and grabbed the liver and took a large bite, humming at the taste. "Mmm~....chewy."  It's quite bright tonight.....almost full. He smirked and licked his fangs playfully. I dunno why....but I got a real good feeling in my gut.....something's about ta change. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The young man passed out small, chipped cups of water to the other workers as candles lit the dark shack. "Thank you!" She gave him a bright smile through her dirt caked face, her long black hair put up in two pigtails.

"Heh, no problem Ellie." He smiled and took a sip of his small cup.

"Can you tell me the story again?" She asked, her green eyes curious.

"Heh, you wanna hear how the monsters ruined our world and brought freaks like him into this life?"

"Evan, shush!" Minnie scolded. "Go on ahead young man." He chuckled and looked into the empty cup, sighing softly.

"A long time ago, monsters and humans were at war." He began slowly, closing his eyes. "The humans won the war, and attempted to seal the monsters underground behind an impenetrable barrier. But humans were not as powerful with magic as monsters were. Monsters are made of magic....humans were not. In just 100 years, the barrier dissolved and monsters returned." He opened his eyes and looked outside at the night sky, the moon covered by clouds. "But humans had all but destroyed their world in other wars.....and food was as scarce here is as it was there. The monsters, having thrived off of the flesh and bone of humans that had fallen down into the underground when famine struck, were right at home."

"So...they did eat humans?"

"Yes, to survive." He sighed and ran a hand through messy black locks. "So they began to inhabit the woods surrounding the region. These woods are now called the Hunter's Woods....and any human that wanders within become the game of the monsters. As for the monsters.....they rarely venture outside their home, and a tense peace has reigned ever since."

"Those poor monsters...." Ellie whimpered and held her empty cup close. She winced and the young man gave her a soft look.

"Ellie, did you hurt yourself again?" Minnie asked.

"N-No! Nu-uh! I'm a tough girl!" She said, wincing again. The pale boy walked over and placed a gentle hand on her stomach, making her whimper. "I-It doesn't hurt, promise!"

"Ellie, you're ribs are bruised, if not broken." He sighed with a soft smile. "Stay still ok?" He carefully lifted her shirt and placed a cool, pale hand against the darkening bruise. She winced as his blue eye glowed gently and a soft, pale blue light formed from his hand. Slowly, the bruise began to fade and she gave off a big smile. "There....better?"

"U...uh-huh..." Her eyes were wide in amazement as he withdrew his hand, sagging a bit. Minnie walked over and caught the young man before he collapsed. "Is he ok?"

"Using his magic like that just wears him out Ellie." Minnie assured her with a smile. There was a loud banging at the shack door and all members inside froze. 

"Wh...who's-" The lock was undone and men came in, their uniformed clothes making everyone freeze. What was worse was their walk, stumbling to and fro and the stench of alcohol filled the small space. "Ellie, get under the cot."

"But-"

"NOW." Ellie nodded and hid as the men approached Minnie. Evan slipped out of the shack and she scowled. "Pigs....all of you. What do you want?"

"Lookit here~! Ish tha' preggers whore~!" The men cackled as the young man stood up slowly, moving closer to Minnie but she held a hand up at him. "Isn' tha' the boss's baby in yer fat ass?"

"Please sirs, leave. We have work in the fields tomorrow and-" One man grabbed her neck and she clawed at his tight grip.

"Minnie!" The young man reached out only for him to be pinned to the ground by one of the other men. "Get off of me, you damned bastards!!!!"

"Heh, ya know...fer a fucking monster's bastard ya sure do have a rather....pretty little face, mmm~?" His eyes widened and he struggled harder. "Mmm...you feel good wrigglin' too-" A shoe was thrown at the man's face and he scowled at Minnie. "Ya goddamned bitch!" He got off of the young man and he watched as she was thrown harshly to the ground.

"Minnie, no!" He tried to get up and help, raising his hands as red magic crackled around his palm. There was a sickening squelch of flesh being punctured, a loud scream, and something hitting him hard on the back of his head before he was forced into darkness.

[themagiciian]

Floral Fluster - Ch. 2

Title: Floral Fluster Warnings: Contains mentions of gambling and vague alcohol abuse Chapters: 1/2/? Word count: 4,543 Relationship: Mugman/Cagney Carnation (relationship) Other characters: Cuphead, Elder Kettle, Rumor Honeybottoms (briefly mentioned), Hilda Berg (briefly mentioned).

Summary: Inkwell Festival is in a few weeks time, and Rumor insists that Cagney goes to it. Perhaps insisting he goes with Mugman might be the encouragement he needs to come out of his shell?

Author’s notes: I’m so so sorry this took a while. I really am. University sucks, life sucks, everything sucks. However... I am rather proud of this part. I sifted through and edited out all my mistakes this time. 

As mentioned in the first part, if you are new here, Cuphead and Mugman are both, in fact, older. They are at least 17. I suppose this can be read as a one-shot, like the first part, perhaps...? Also, has the name for this ship changed? I’ve seen the tag “tea leaf” being thrown around here and there. I’ll use both, regardless, but ah well.

Also, I do apologise if Cuphead or Elder Kettle seem a little out of character. I wasn’t exactly sure how to write them. I’m so sorry.

But, without further ado... once again, please enjoy! 

Mugman gave a heavy sigh as he practically burst through the door, panting a little as he had ran home. “I'm so sorry I'm late, pops!” He exclaimed, Cuphead and Elder Kettle looking up as he walked in. His cheeks were deep blue after having sped home, hurriedly removing his coat and hanging it up. “Sorry, sorry - hope I didn't miss nothin’…”

Cuphead rested his head in the palm of his hand as Mugman sat down opposite from him at the table. “Mugs, you almost missed dinner!” Elder Kettle exclaimed, clearly worried as he turned to the two brothers.

“Well- th’ keyword there is almost, gramps,” Mugman gave a little chuckle. Elder Kettle only tutted and rolled his eyes as his innocent playfulness, giving him a look that said ‘what am I gonna do with you?’. Mugman only smiled back before he glanced at Cuphead who seemed rather bored, playing with his fork idly. He didn't seem in the best of moods. The three went quiet, the only sound between the three were sounds of vegetables boiling, and the little thud of the fork hitting the table.

Mugman cleared his throat quietly to gently break the silence, before he piped up. “Slow day at work, Cups? You don't look too happy.”

“Oh, was it ever,” He began with a groan, shaking his head, “never been so bored in my fuckin’ life.” Cuphead quickly followed that up with a quiet 'sorry’ for the use of vulgar language. Kettle hated it when he swore. “We was jus’ movin’ around a buncha stuff today. Reorganising…” There was a pause for a shrug. “Total bore but, eh, it works. I get money outta it anyway.”

The final statement was followed up by brief smirk on his face, looking away for a split second. In a flash, it was gone. Mugman frowned a bit, suspicions roused, but didn't question. He wouldn’t touch on it at the dinner table- least of all in front of their grandfather.

“...Right,” was Mugman's only response, seeming a little hesitant, but his frown eased a little.

Before another silence could settle in, Cuphead sat up in his seat, looking up at his brother with a smirk. “So, where've you been? Y’ don’t normally go out, Mugs. Nearly fainted when I was told y’ were meetin’ up with somebody,” Cuphead joked, the smirk turning into a grin, “so who’s the lovely lady, 'en? Don't tell me you pulled Cala- you wouldn't break the bro-code.”

“I wouldn’t even dream a’ breakin’ the bro-code. But it ain't a girl,” Mugman answered, instantly blushing when Cuphead let out a loud 'oooooh’, that grin on his face only growing and Mugman couldn't help but giggle a little. “It ain't romantic… He's just a friend.”

Both Elder Kettle and Cuphead raised their brows at that. “What? I'm serious!” Mugman stammered, face still flushed blue.

“Mhmmmm, o’ course,” Cuphead looked like a Cheshire cat with how wide his snarky smile was, “so, who's your 'friend’?”

Mugman smiled a little to himself, looking down at the floor, before meeting Cuphead’s expectant gaze. “...Cagney.”

“Cagney?!” Cuphead suddenly yelled out, causing the other two to jump up as the tone of conversation took a u-turn. “You're hanging around with- with Cagney?!”

“Oh, I remember when that flower was just a little sprout,” Kettle mused adoringly, beginning to plate up their dinners, “he was so sweet. Hilda used to carry 'im around in this little flower pot. It was always so cute to see her runnin’ around with that little flower.”

“Y’ gotta be joshin’ me! Cagney Carnation, of all people? He’s the rudest resident this side of Inkwell! He's horrible!” Cuphead grumbled, very clearly displeased, muttering a 'thanks’ as a plate of food was put infront of him. “I don't like 'im.”

Kettle sat down at the head of the table, hands folded infront of him. Mugman had only rolled his eyes at Cuphead's comment. “He's nice to me, Cups! He's actually kinda charming,” Mugman replied with a little shrug, “and I'm going to meet him tomorrow.”

“I think that's sweet,” Kettle spoke softly, patting Mugman on the shoulder, “don't y’ think, Cuphead? Cagney’s a nice fellow. You should give him a chance.”

“Yuck,” Cuphead scrunched up his nose, clearly he had a distaste for the said flower. He scooped up a mouthful of food, shuffling a bit in his seat. “There is no way that- that dandelion is gettin’ another chance outta me! He was so rude about the whole soul contract thing. That big old weed is just… he's just… grumpy! And he's mean. He hit me with a vine once.”

“Wh- he did?” Mugman instantly became concerned, taken aback, suddenly beginning to have second thoughts. Cagney wouldn't do that, would he? “Why?”

“Well, y’know I was jus' passin’ through,” Cuphead  started, “and this little flower kid is following me around so I tell it to buzz off, y’know? But it didn't… So I shot at it.”

“Well there's your answer,” Kettle interjected, shaking his head a little, “you shouldn't attack things like that.”

“It didn't leave me alone though!” Cuphead quickly came to defend himself, his expression turning sour. “I didn't wanna do it, it wasn't even that hurt... It was jus’ one dumb flower.”

“Those are his children, Cups!” Mugman argued, reaching out to poke at Cuphead's hand, to which the older brother grunted. “He's really protective of 'em, y’know? You'd be mad too if you had kids.”

Cuphead glared at that, teeth clenched a little. “Good thing that I don't,” Cuphead growled back, cutting the conversation off there. His now foul mood made the quiet air that fell upon them awkward. It wasn't like Cuphead to get in such a bitter state so quickly. Mugman's previous suspicions were roused again...

Kettle gave a look to Mugman, shaking his head a little, his expression one of concern. Kettle must've had the same thought he had. Thankfully Cuphead didn't notice them both roll their eyes.

Once dinner was over, Cuphead hastily got up with his own plate and cutlery. He dumped it into the sink, before stomping upstairs, his footsteps quickly becoming distant as he sulked off. Mugman flinched a little when he heard the bedroom door slam. He let out a soft sigh, picking up his own plate and Kettle’s, making his way over to the sink and began to clean up.

He paused from washing up when he heard Kettle stand up and begin to head up the stairs. “Wait, p-pops!” Mugman called, quickly running over, “I- I’ll talk to him. Don't worry about it.”

Kettle let out a frustrated huff, but he turned around and came back downstairs. Mugman smiled, relieved, reaching out and taking his grandfather's hand to guide him to his chair in the living room.

“I just don't know what's wrong with him, Mugs,” Kettle spoke softly, leaning back in his seat, “he's been so… grouchy recently…”

“I know, I know,” Mugman pat his shoulder gently, trying his best to be reassuring. Internally, his concern grew for his brother, recalling his earlier conversation with Cagney about Cuphead's gambling habit. He quickly decided not to mention it to Kettle. He didn't want him to worry, feeling guilt weigh down on his chest as he didn't like hiding things from his grandfather. But… He felt like he had a responsibility, to protect Cuphead from getting in trouble…

“It might jus’ be the change of seasons. He always gets grumpy in the cold,” Mugman reasoned, giving a shrug. Kettle seemed to be somewhat satisfied with that response.

Kettle’s arms folded across his chest, shaking his head a little. “I don't know, Mugs. Whatever it is… I'm sure he'll get over it,” He spoke softly, and before Mugman could turn away he caught his hand, “thank you…fer’ everything. You're so selfless and I… I can't thank you enough, Mugsy. Y’ better enjoy yourself out tomorrow with that Carnation. You deserve it.”

Mugman gave a little smile, gently squeezing his hand, his face becoming a bit blue at the mention of Cagney. “I’m sure I will. I’ll go see Cuphead after I clean up… Thanks, pops.”

“You're very welcome, son.”

With that, Mugman rushed back to the kitchen and turned away to finish washing up the dishes. He quietly hummed to himself as he cleaned up. Washing up was always therapeutic to him, and he found himself becoming lost in thought.

His mind slowly wandered back to Cagney as he scrubbed, leaning onto the counter a little as he looked out of the window just above the sink. It provided a view into the beginning of the forest where Cagney resided, though he couldn't really see it as it was so dark (neither did he have his glasses on, so it was difficult to see very far- he cursed himself a bit for forgetting to wear them when he really should).

‘Are we friends?’ Mugman found himself wondering, frowning a bit in thought as he began to scrub the dishes. He frowned a little in thought, staring out of the window at the dark forest right ahead. If he were a little younger, a little more naive, it would've been a definite yes, but now… He couldn't shake the feeling that Cagney might've just been tolerating him because he had to… especially after Cuphead's comments about the flower...

His lips curled down a bit. Cagney was always like that though, right? He just never really enjoyed people being around, and that was that.

Maybe it had just been too long. 'I probably should've been a better friend in the first place and kept in contact with him,’ he thought, 'then I wouldn't have this problem at all.’

'...It sure felt nice when I hugged him, though.’

Mugman's frown twitched into a smile, face flushing a little as he stifled a giggle. Then when he hugged back, even though his arms were really too long to hug properly... And when he put his hand on his shoulder to comfort him… It was sweet. He meant well. He shouldn't doubt Cagney so much.

'I guess it was kinda cute when I surprised him as well,’ Mugman pondered with a smile, 'was he sleeping? Hm… his petals felt nice to touch. I wonder if he liked it… What would that even feel like…?”

His train of thought was interrupted when he heard the door upstairs creak open, the floorboards groaning a little as someone stomped on them. His train of thought was promptly interrupted, hurrying to clean up the last of the dishes and cutlery before putting them aside to dry.

'Cuphead.’

In a hurry he just shook off his wet hands, flicking off the beads of water, before hastily making his way upstairs. As soon as Mugman saw him, Cuphead jolted, quickly shifting so his hands were behind his back. He couldn't look more guilty.

“Cups?” Mugman blinked, and Cuphead only stared back, shifting backwards to put more distance between them. “What are you hiding…?” Mugman quietly asked as he stepped up onto the landing, eyes slowly narrowing as Cuphead glanced about uncomfortably. He looked ready to run away- that was affirmed when Cuphead finally made eye contact and let out a nervous chuckle.

“Oh, nothin’, Mugs,” he answered, clearly trying to sound as nonchalant as possible, swaying playfully as if trying to look natural, “I dunno what yer on about.”

But it wasn't going to fool him. “What's in your hand?”

“I told ya. Nothin',” Cuphead chuckled again, “Dunno why yer even--”

“Prove it,” Mugman demanded, cutting him off. The faux look of innocence was quickly replaced by surprise, then irritation. “I wasn't born yesterday, Cups.”

There was silence, Cuphead glaring at him for a moment, before finally the elder brother spoke. “Fine,” he hissed, bitterness lacing his tone as he held out his hands. Mugman blinked, looking down at the item in his palm. It took him a moment to identify it, but it was undoubtedly a silver flask. Upon further inspection, that was undoubtedly King Dice’s brand etched onto the face of it...

Mugman’s own expression slipped into shock, before falling into disappointment. There was only one place he could've gotten it from... Why had he gone back to Inkwell Hell? What was he doing in that filthy casino again? Hadn't he learned from last time?

His mind swam with thoughts, but all he could utter was; “why?”

“...I… I dunno, Mugsy,” Came the quiet response, scowl fading into shame, “I- I’m sorry.”

“You've said that before, Cuphead,” Mugman exclaimed, “you said sorry but... you didn't do anything…” Much to his own dismay, Mugman’s eyes began to water, suddenly feeling overwhelmed. His throat and chest felt tight, but he forced himself to continue. “And- and you even went back t-there! What were you thinking? Do you even know what they put in that? They coulda’ spiked it, knowing that shady place--”

“I don't know why I went there, okay?! I jus’ wanted to- I thought it’d be fun! But I lost every single fuckin’ round against that stupid Dice anyway,” Cuphead gave a huff, pocketing the flask, “an’ he said he put bourbon in it. I had some, tasted fine. So I'm fine, okay? I'm fine.”

Mugman sniffled a bit, bottom lip quivering lightly. Without a word, Cuphead pulled him into an embrace, nuzzling softly against his shoulder as he heard Mugman begin to sob, clearly overwhelmed by emotion. The younger brother quickly returned the hug, gripping onto the back of Cuphead's t-shirt.

“Look, Mugsy… I'm sorry… I really am.” Cuphead said softly, one hand reaching up to stroke down his back gently. Mugman’s breath hitched, holding onto him tighter. “Please… You don't gotta be so worried 'bout me. I promise I'll be alright.”

“B-But- but what if you aren't, C-Cups…?” Came the meek response, followed by a gentle hiccup. “I j-just don't want to see you get h-hurt… I don't want anything b-bad to happen again…”

Cuphead moved away from the hug, reaching up to wipe away Mugman's tears. “I-Is that why you were so mad tonight? C-Cos’ you lost?” He asked quietly as his brother thumbed away the tears that spilled down his face. His question was answered when Cuphead looked away for a few seconds, before making eye contact again. “H-How much?”

“...All 'f it…” Cuphead hesitantly replied, “I didn't mean to take it out on ya…”

“No… I know,” Mugman gave a little smile, reaching up to brush away the last of the tears that leaked out of his eyes, “it’s… okay... It'll be okay,” he reassured himself, taking a deep breath, before exhaling. “I'm… sorry for gettin’ so upset…”

Cuphead smiled weakly in return, moving to wrap his arm around Mugman's shoulder with a light pat. “That's alright, lil’ brother,” he said, gently clinking his head against his brothers, “look... I'm so… so, so sorry… I wasn't thinkin’… I promise, I'll get better.”

Mugman gave a little nod. “Y-yeah…” He murmured, his own arm wrapping around Cuphead's waist. His crying had made him rather sleepy, leaning against the other a bit. “I… I'm tired. I better go to bed. I gotta get up early.”

He slipped away from his brother, turning to give him one last smile, before disappearing into his room with one last “goodnight”. Cuphead smiled back, reaching up to scratch the back of his neck.

Once the door had clicked shut however, Cuphead let out a loud sigh.

'Might as well finish it whilst I can,’ he mused internally, reaching for the flask in his pocket and promptly chugging down the last of its contents.

“Um, sorry I didn't really bring you much, Mister Carnation…” Mugman scratched the side of his porcelain head, stopping just before him, “I don't really know what flowers… um… eat.”

Much to his relief, Cagney wasn't offended or disappointed by this. Instead, he merely shrugged. “We don't really eat, so to speak,” he answered, “it’s hard to explain. I mean, I could probably eat 'normal’ food, but… I've never tried it.”

Cagney quickly patted the ground beside him as an invitation for him to come over and sit beside him, and Mugman quickly obliged. He took extra care to step over any flowers, before quietly sitting down on the grass next to him. He pulled his messenger bag up onto his lap, pulling it open from its buckles. “Well, today's your lucky day,” Mugman chirruped, reaching into his bag. Cagney leant down a little curiously, blinking when he pulled out his lunchbox.

Inside, Mugman felt a little bit embarrassed... He'd had this lunchbox since he was very young. The face of it had tacky stickers plastered all over it, and his name was clumsily written in the corner. The writing, as well as the stickers, had gotten worn away over the years but… he still felt fond of them, which was why he never made the effort to remove them. A bit childish, he knew, and now he was regretting not switching his lunchbox with Cuphead's just this once. He dismissed the thought, however, as he quickly clinked the box open, feeling Cagney’s gaze fixed on him. The thought of Cagney staring at him made his cheeks flush a little… but he soon shook his head, clinking the box open.

Cagney leant in further once it was open, head turning a little to see what was inside. Mugman smiled at the interest he'd taken. “By the look on y’ face, I would've thought you've never seen food before,” he mused aloud, and the flower actually gave a nod in response.

“I have a handful of times, but that was back when I lived with Hilda,” Cagney answered, “it's… kinda weird seeing it up close, actually. I don't know what I expected.”

Mugman actually giggled at him in return, not expecting such a response. This earned him a bit of a frown, but he didn't mind, and instead, he reached out to pat one of his petals playfully. “Well… since it's your first time…” he smirked, “you get first pick.”

The other had only flinched a bit in response to the pat, having not expected the contact, but didn't move away (which Mugman assumed was a good thing, since Cagney seemed a bit weird about touching). There was a hum of thought from him, eyes darting around the box, before hooking a donut on the end of his finger.

“What the heck is this?” He asked bluntly, bringing it to his face to inspect it. He didn't seem to like the feeling of the sugar that fell off as he picked it up, scowling at the residue it left on his finger, before promptly brushing it off.

“That's a donut- well, it's a sugar donut,” he explained, “it's sweet. Really sweet. Try it- y’ might like it.”

There was still a hint of confusion on Cagney’s face, his head tilting a bit. “I just…” he gave a little sigh, pulling it off the end of his finger and into his palm, “it's looks weird. What if I don't like it?”

“Then you don't eat it,” Mugman answered simply, shrugging, “I'm not gonna be mad if y’ don't like 'em... Just a donut, y'know? It's not gourmet.”

There was a second of hesitation, and he looked a little uncertain. Mugman was going to say something, however Cagney had already quickly scoffed it down in one go, swallowing hard without chewing. He cringed a little at the sight, eyes widening a little at the sudden motion, before nervously chuckling. Cagney probably grew up without table manners, after all, so he supposed it made sense that he'd just hawk it down without thinking twice.

“Well, was it alright or not?” Mugman asked quietly after a moment.

“To be honest, Mugman... I didn't really taste anything,” The response was as blunt and as flat as anything, stroking his chin in thought. Mugman brought a hand up to his forehead, laughing at how ridiculous he was. It only brought confusion to Cagney, however. “Wh-what's so funny?”

“You! You’re supposed to chew it first- n-not just wolf it down,” Mugman continued to giggle, much to the others embarrassment, “I've never seen somebody eat wrong before but you’ve managed t’ pull it off…”

Cagney’s arms crossed, looking embarrassed now. “W-Well, I'm sorry that I don't know how to eat properly,” he grumbled, face going red which only prompted another laugh out of Mugman. “Hey… hey! Stop laughing! It's not funny!”

“It is! It’s funny- no, it's hilarious,” Mugman continued to laugh, slapping his leg, face flushed blue from laughter. Cagney let out a snort of frustration, which only made him giggle even harder. “Oh c’mon, lighten up! I'm just messin’ wit’ ya!”

Mugman’s teasing laughter began to fade when Cagney gave a glare, face reddened, before sharply turning and pulling down two of his petals hard in embarrassment. He could hear the frustrated huff that came from him. Mugman soon reached out to take a hold of his hand, trying to stop him from pulling at himself. “W-Wait! Cagney, don't do that- you'll hurt yourself!” He cried, voice gripped with urgency as he tried to pull his hands away.

Cagney tensed up visibly, and Mugman could hear him grumble a bit. His needle-like thorns began to emerge from his body. Obviously, he was very agitated. “Mister Carnation…” Mugman's voice was low now, hoping he hadn't upset him too much, now being careful of those thorns, “I'm sorry. I was kiddin’. I promise… I don't mean it.”

Despite Cagney’s strained form, his hand didn't move from Cagney’s, his thumb gently tracing over his knuckles. He could feel him begin to relax, before he slowly let go of himself. Mugman smiled as he turned his head back to him, hand slipping into his palm and gave a gentle squeeze. Cagney wore a bit of a sheepish look, face still dyed a little red, before clasping his larger hand around his.

“Why d’ya do that?” Mugman asked, voice laced with soft concern, allowing him to hold his hand. He smiled sweetly at him- Cagney seemed a little anxious, after all. He went quiet as his thorns slowly withdrew- that was good thing, at least. “It's okay, Mister Carnation. I'm sorry for makin’ fun of you.”

“Ah, really, Mugman, just Cagney is fine. Sorry for getting so… flustered,” He mumbled in response, “...I, er, um... it's a habit. I used to do it when I was little, when I got scared.”

Mugman frowned in worry. “Have y’ ever pulled out a petal on accident?”

“...Yeah,” he let out a little 'tch’ to himself, “a lot of times, actually, heh. It really hurts when it happens… they don't grow back so quick anymore, either.”

“Golly, what am I gonna do with you?” Mugman sighed, moving his lunchbox and bag aside so he could scoot closer to him. “What if they don't grow back one day, mister- I mean, Cagney? What will you do?”

“We... nothing. I’ll live with it. I mean, I'll have to,” the answer was flat, and unsatisfying, followed up by a shrug. Mugman frowned a bit, leaning onto his shoulder.

“I think you worry too much,” Cagney commented idly after a moment, “you should relax a little.”

Mugman let out a 'pfft'. “...You sound like my brother.”

“Oh God forbid,” Cagney groaned, the sarcasm in his voice exaggerated, which made Mugman chuckle. Cagney gave a small smile at his laughter. “Oh, hey, did you talk to Cuphead after? ...What's up with him?”

Mugman's face dropped a bit, shaking his head. “He wasted his earnings down Inkwell Hell yesterday…” he began, his unoccupied hand reaching to rub his neck out of nervousness, “and he had a flask with 'im. I- I dunno. He said he'd stop but- but I dunno, Cagney. I don't know if I should believe him… what do you think?”

There was a hum of thought, before Cagney gave a nod. “I think he will. You're worried sick about him. Anyone can see that,” he reassured, “he'd be stupid not to.”

“Well he's been making a lot of stupid decisions recently,” Mugman grunted, letting out a deep huff of frustration. He then shook his head. This wasn't a very good topic for conversation. “I shouldn't… I shouldn't think about it. I shouldn't put my problems on you. Sorry, Cagney…”

“Uh, hey, don't worry about it! It's okay, I promise,” He quickly chimed back. The light response was a pleasant surprise. Finally, Mugman felt himself relax, the tenseness in his shoulders leaving and he slacked a little.

“Thank you,” he breathed, head still resting on his shoulder. In fact, he was talking so much, that he'd forgotten their hands were linked. That brought colour to his face again. He could felt his heart beat a little quicker... Cagney seriously didn't mind this? His chest felt like little flowers were growing and blooming inside of him. 'Th-this is so nice…’

“Mugman? Um… we are friends,” Cagney piped up after a moment, before glancing down at Mugman, “right?”

There was a pause. Mugman was taken aback by the question. But soon, he nodded, smiled up at him, and shifted closer. “Yes- without a doubt, Cagney.”

Cagney had mumbled a 'thanks’, and looked away. He assumed it was to conceal that smile, but he'd caught sight of it before he turned. He really was shy, wasn't he? Mugman stifled a giggle, nuzzling against his arm. That was one thing Rumor was right about… he really was just a big dork...

The silence was peaceful. He felt like he could fall asleep right then and there. Resting against his stem wasn't particularly comfy, but the closeness… it was pleasant. Maybe a bit more than pleasant, actually. He'd never been so close to another like this before. It genuinely felt nice. He felt more at ease than he had in awhile. No gramps to worry about, no Cuphead to worry about, no errands to get to.

He felt his eyes begin to shut, drowsiness growing. Maybe five minutes wouldn't hurt...

He was jolted awake as Cagney’s hand withdrew from his before he slipped into slumber, letting out a mumble of protest as he was pulled away from sleep so suddenly. “Tired?” Cagney asked, and Mugman nodded back. He smirked, “it’s because you stress yourself out, like I said, see? You get tired easily… let me help you into a more comfortable position.”

Cagney summoned a vine with a large leaf attached to it, curling it on the ground beside him. He shooed away some of his brood, making some space for their guest. Gently, Mugman was lifted, his head resting on the leaf. It was a make-shift pillow; though it was much better to rest against rather than Cagney’s shoulder, he found himself missing being at his side. But he feeling too sleepy to argue.

“Th-thank you…” Mugman murmured, eyes fluttering closed again. Another couple of vines popped up, some with leaves and little buds on them, gently wrapping around his body to act as a blanket. Before he drifted to sleep, he felt Cagney’s finger gently stroke his cheek, before he leant down to nuzzle against the rim of his head.

“You're more than welcome, my little bluebell...”

[undertale-rho]

Underearth: Book 5 - Chapter 7

Frisk descended the staircase that led down to the river. It was much cooler down here than it was directly at the base of Mount Hot. At the river, which was called the Acheron River by those of the Outskirts, Frisk saw Charon, the riverman of the Acheron.

"Tra la la." Charon said as Frisk approached. "I am the Riverman. Or am I the Riverwoman...? It doesn't really matter. I love to ride in my boat. Would you care to join me?"

"Sure. Love me some boat riding from time to time." Frisk said.

"Where would you like to go?"

"Could you take me to the Quiet Village?"

Charon waved a single rotted hand to the back of the boat. Frisk climbed aboard. In an instant, they were off.

Charon hummed a quiet tune along the way. Before much time had passed, the boat came to a halt at the port of the Quiet Village.

"Come again some time. Tra la la."

"Thanks." Frisk said, advancing into the village.

As he walked, Frisk's phone began ringing.

"HEY! WHAT'S UP!?" Papyrus asked after Frisk answered the phone.

"Not much. What's up with you?"

"WELL, I WAS JUST THINKING... YOU, ME, AND UNDYNE SHOULD ALL HANG OUT SOMETIME! I THINK YOU WOULD MAKE GREAT PALS! LET'S MEET UP AT HER HOUSE LATER!"

"I'm already one step ahead of you, Papyrus. I'm right outside her house now." Frisk said, entering the tunnel that led to Undyne's house.

"WHA— TRULY, YOU ARE THE MASTER AT FRIENDSHIP!"

"You bet. I'll see you when you get here."

Frisk stored the phone back in his pocket after hanging up. After a few minutes of waiting, Papyrus ran into view at the end of the tunnel.

"Oho! The skeleton arrives!" Frisk said as Papyrus entered the front yard. "Are you ready to hang out with Undyne?"

"H... HOLD ON!" Papyrus said, trying to catch his breath. "THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I WAS GOING TO SAY!"

"Oh? You know, I'll bet you have a plan to make me and Undyne great friends, too."

Papyrus looked to be at a loss for words.

"Anyway, I'll stay behind you until you want to reveal me."

Papyrus stepped up to the door, still flabbergasted at Frisk's apparent foresight.

From there, things went exceedingly similar to how they went before. Undyne answered and was stunned to see Frisk standing with Papyrus. Inviting them both inside, Papyrus shot out through a window, giving Frisk and Undyne the chance to get to know each-other. After returning just long enough to mention a challenge, Papyrus vanished for good, and Frisk and Undyne got the chance to learn about one-another.

After talking for what seemed like a half-hour, the two got into cooking spaghetti, which quickly turned into a blazing inferno that finalized in the stove exploding and destroying the house completely.

"Ah." Undyne said, looking at the rubble surrounding them. "Man, no wonder Papyrus sucks at cooking."

The two dropped their magical shields which had formed immediately after the stove exploded, releasing the shrapnel held in place by the energy.

"It's a good thing you're so good at shield magic." she said. "Otherwise that explosion would have killed you."

Frisk and Undyne admired the wreckage of the house, which was completely unrecognizable from how it was before.

"So what's next?" Undyne asked. "Scrapbooking? Friendship bracelets?"

"You don't seem all that concerned about your house exploding." Frisk said.

"Why would I? This happens at least once a week. I'll just go pay the old man a visit eventually and ask him to fix it back up, good as new."

"Just fix it back up like nothing happened, huh." Frisk chuckled a bit. "Magic sure is a great thing to have."

At that moment, a piece of the roof, which was jammed into the ceiling of the tunnel, dislodged, and fell into the ruins. Undyne looked to where it had fallen, clearly thinking about something.

"You know, you remind me a lot of someone I used to train with. It's clear now that you aren't just some wimpy loser. You're a wimpy loser with a big heart!" she went silent again, retreating back into her thoughts.

"Listen, Human." she said after a few minutes of silence. "It seems that you and Asgore are fated to fight. But knowing him... he probably doesn't want to. Talk to him. I'm sure you can persuade him to let you go home. Eventually, some mean Human will fall down here, and I'll take their SOUL instead. That makes sense, right?"

Frisk nodded.

"Oh, and if you do hurt Asgore—"

"You'll take the Human SOULs, cross the Barrier, and beat the heck outta me?" Frisk interrupted.

"Y-yeah. How'd you know I was going to say that?"

"Because that's what friends are for, right?"

Undyne smiled. "Right. Fuhuhuh! Now let's get the hell out of this ruined house!"

The two carefully exited the house (if by "carefully", you mean Undyne summoned a spear and threw it at the door-hole, collapsing an already unstable section of wall). From there, Undyne stated she was going to go hang with Papyrus, then ran off. Frisk, on the other hand, started making his way back to the Hotlands.

"Hey Frisk." a familiar voice said as Frisk walked down the tunnel to the port.

Turning to face the speaker, Frisk saw Calibri standing in the tunnel that led to the bridge that Undyne cut.

"Hey Calibri."

Calibri stepped from the tunnel.

"Ah, nephew. Good to see you." Charon said from his boat. "I see you know this Human."

"Yup. Why not properly introduce yourself."

Charon stepped from the boat and removed his hood. Beneath the shroud was a heavily rotten-like head, with parts of his bones showing. His hair was black and messy, with most of it being on his face in the form of a mustache and beard. "I am Charon Courier Gaster, Riverman of the Acheron." he said.

"Nice to meet you, Charon. I'm Frisk Anendotos."

Charon's eyes widened. "Anendotos, you say."

"It's fine, Charon. He's good."

"And yet he carries the blood of that traitor."

"Who are you talking about?" Frisk asked.

Calibri shook his head. "It's not important. You're not him, and that's that."

"Would somebody just give me a clear answer!?"

Calibri sighed. "Later. Right now, we should see about continuing you along. I'll be back later, Charon."

"I await your return."

Frisk huffed as Calibri led him back up the tunnel.

"Do you know who their talking about?" Frisk whispered to Chara.

"No, sorry." she said glumly. "The only Anendotos I know besides you are Isokrates, Menodora, and... Kallias, but they can't possibly be who they were talking about."

"I see. Thanks anyway."

Frisk and Calibri entered the darkness of the caves ahead. After a few minutes of walking, light emanating from a fissure came into view.

"What the..." Frisk said. "This isn't the Hotlands."

"No, but it's a place you wandered to after failing horribly to follow me a number of Runs ago."

"I remember."

When the two reached the fissure, they both squeezed through.

Beyond was a well-lit tunnel, with stones all around the tunnel shining a bright cool-blue light. Within the glow, strange animal-like Monsters wandered around, with the most through-traffic centered around a small hole in one of the sides of the tunnel. Across from this hole was a much larger cut-out doorway. The end of the tunnel, far across from the fissure, featured a great stone statue depicting a Monster heavily reminiscent of the ones wandering around. The statue stood on a pedestal, which had the word "TEM" engraved in the front. All around the tunnel, sticking up from the ground, walls, and ceiling, were signs.

"hOI!! welcom to... TEM VILLAGE!!!" the sign nearest the fissure read.

"Tem Village..." Frisk said.

"Yup! I love this place, it's so unique and interesting. Managed to stay hidden from Asgore, or more specifically the Monster Kingdom, for a long time too, until relatively recently." Calibri said. "While we're here, you should check out the Tem Shop."

"The Tem Shop, huh." Frisk stepped further into the village. Nearing the cut-out doorway, he saw two signs standing out front.

"hOI!! u shud check out... TEM SHOP!!!", the first sign read. "yaYA!! i AGREES!! shud check... TEM SHOP!!!"

Frisk groaned as he stepped inside.

"hOI! welcom to... da TEM SHOP!!!" a Temmie within said, sitting within a cardboard box with the words "TEM SHOP" painted on the front, surrounded by stars.

"Hello." Frisk said, looking around the inside.

The Tem Shop looked like a mess, with strange objects scattered around everywhere. All in all, there were only two places within the Shop that could be said to be of a relative order. The first, closest to the door, was a shelf holding three cardboard boxes filled with what looked like shredded pieces of colored construction paper. "Temmie Flakes" were written on the front of all three boxes; the second box specifically marked "ON SALE,", and the third marked "expensiv". At the end of this shelf stood what looked like a short hat-tree with five prongs pointing out. A ring with a singular red rhombus-shaped gem decorated each of the five prongs. The second was a stack of cardboard boxes with a photo of a small white dog in a plain picture frame placed on top.

Why did Calibri tell me I should check this place out? Frisk thought. "So, um, what's this place?" he asked the clerk.

"Is... da TEM SHOP!!!"

"Yeah, I can see that. Anything... interesting you guys sell or something?"

"TemFlakess!!!"

Frisk looked back at the boxes filled with shredded paper. While looking at them, he caught sight of the pronged stand again.

"What's that?" he asked, pointing to it.

"tem armor! replicated from da armor worn by TEM!!!!!!!!!"

"Tem?"

"TEM!!!!!!!!!"

This is going nowhere fast...

"How much is it?"

The clerk looked over at the pronged stand.

"750G."

Frisk reached into his pocket and pulled out the dimensional pocket Sans had given him. Reaching inside that, he pulled out the massive coin purse within. Spending the better part of a quarter of an hour, he carefully picked out 750 coins and handed them to the clerk.

"thanks PURCHASE!" she said, taking the coins and placing them in a lockbox.

Frisk, pocketing everything, grabbed the five loops, and exited the store.

"Ah, there you are." Calibri said when Frisk exited. "You were in there for quite a while. Get anything?"

"Yeah, this." Frisk held up the five loops.

"Ah yes, the Temmie Armor. Highly advanced magical armor from what I hear. Try putting it on."

Frisk looked down at the rings. "How? Where?"

"Try placing one on your head."

Frisk placed four of the rings into his jacket pocket and brought one up to his head. Upon getting close, the ring expanded to the circumference of Frisk's head.

"Whoa."

"If I remember right, the other four go on the ends of your limbs."

Pulling another ring from his pocket, the ring expanded to slip over Frisk's hand, contracting around his wrist. The other one he did this with did the same. The last two did the same, though with his feet instead.

"Now what?"

"Focus magic into the five pieces. If you need a point on them to focus on, make sure it's the gem."

Frisk took a deep breath. Eyes glowing red, he focused magic into the gems in each ring. After a few seconds, all five gems began glowing red, and a red wave of energy shot over Frisk. A few seconds later, the energy vanished.

"What just happened?" he asked.

"You summoned the armor. Looks good."

"You look like a metal lizard." Chara said.

"A lizard?"

Calibri pointed at a grand painting decorating one of the walls. "You look kinda like like." he said.

Frisk looked over at the painting. A great seawyrm rose from a dark sea. A white Temmie rode its tail. The seawyrm possessed a long, dark snout with terrible horns stretching out of its head. Its menacing eyes sent chills down Frisk's spine.

"Huh..." Frisk looked back to Calibri. "Say, do you know what this 'rich history of Tem' is?"

Calibri sighed. "Unfortunately, no. Temmies always seem to be open to talking about it, but only mention that there's this deep and rich history, never going into any depth. The most answers you'll get will be from deviants, but even they will be vague in their own way."

"Deviants?"

"Temmies that don't follow the ways of Tem as closely as their society would demand. They'll be the only Temmies not named 'Temmie'."

"I see."

Calibri walked back over to the fissure. "Anyway, we should get you back on track. You were heading to the Hotlands, right?"

"Yeah."

"Well, then let's go."

Frisk and Calibri stepped through the fissure and back into the darkness ahead. While enroute, Frisk focused magical energy back into the gems, which caused the armor to recede away. After a few minutes of walking, they arrived at the crag. Once there, Calibri said he had things to do elsewhere, and parted ways, while Frisk continued on ahead.

Once within the Hotlands, Frisk managed to make it just in time to see the changing of the guards outside the Lab again. Entering the laboratory, Frisk followed the right wall through the dark. Near the end, the sound of an elevator door opening caused Frisk to stop in place. This was quickly followed by the lights flashing on, revealing a large yellow lizard-Monster, about Frisk's size.

"What... the hell?" Chara said, seeing the lizard-Monster.

The lizard-Monster, despite wearing a lab-coat and looking professional, had little else on besides it, leaving precious little up to the imagination. Besides the sleek white lab-coat, the Monster wore a bra, panties, and glasses.

After turning on the light, the Monster turned towards Frisk, though hadn't noticed him due to being distracted by something on the clipboard it held. After a few seconds and a few steps, it finally looked up and spotted him.

"Oh. My god." she said, dropping the clipboard to the ground. "I didn't expect you to show up so soon! I haven't showered, I'm barely dressed, it's all messy, and..." she turned away and went silent for a moment before turning back, her lab-coat now fully buttoned, obscuring what lay beneath. "Ummm... H-h-hiya! I'm Dr. Alphys. I'm Asgore's Royal Scientist! B-b-but, ahhhh, I'm not one of the 'bad guys'!" She stuttered horribly as she spoke, tripping over her words awkwardly. "Actually, since you stepped out of the Citadel, I've, um... been 'observing' your journey through my console. Your fights... your friendships... everything! At least, um... at least when a clear picture would come through."

Frisk looked back at a large monitor he'd passed by the door he'd come in through.

"Wow, she is quite odd, isn't she." Chara said.

"Just wait, it gets better." Frisk whispered back. He took a deep breath and approached Alphys. "Nice to meet you, Alphys!" he said, extending a hand.

Alphys was taken aback at this gesture, but slowly extended her own hand and grasped Frisk's. Upon taking his hand, Frisk shook her's somewhat violently.

"You know," Frisk said, letting go of her hand. "you look like the kind of scientist who makes evil robots that have anti-Human combat features. Is one lurking around here, by chance?"

Alphys stepped back, her jaw dropping agape. "I-I-I..." she mumbled.

A loud banging sound suddenly erupted throughout the laboratory.

Excellent. Frisk thought.

Another banging sound, quickly followed by a few more. Alphys continued to try and find words to speak, but nothing came as the banging continued until an explosion erupted from a nearby wall, causing the lights to go out.

"OHHHH YES!" a new, robotic voice said. "WELCOME, BEAUTIES..." a spotlight turned on, revealing a rectangular metal box on a singular wheel, four dials, and a large screen situated just above. Two arms sprouted from its sides, one holding a microphone to a line of wire-mesh situated between the dials and screen. "TO TODAY'S QUIZ SHOW!!!"

Music began playing as lesser spotlights lit the rest of the lab in colored light.

"OH BOY! I CAN ALREADY TELL IT'S GONNA BE A GREAT SHOW! NOT ONLY DID ALPHYS MAKE A TERRIBLE MISTAKE WHEN REMOVING MY ANTI-HUMAN FUNCTIONS, WE HAVE A WONDERFUL HUMAN CONTESTANT. EVERYBODY GIVE THEM A BIG HAND!"

The robot gave Frisk a big round of applause as confetti fell from the ceiling onto him.

"NEVER PLAYED BEFORE, GORGEOUS? NO PROBLEM! I, METTATON, HAVE MADE IT VERY SIMPLE! THERE'S ONLY ONE RULE. ANSWER CORRECTLY... OR YOU DIE!!!"

"Wow, this guy is quite the up-front kind of person, huh."

Frisk chuckled a bit so not to draw attention from Mettaton or Alphys. "No, no he's really not."

"LET'S START WITH AN EASY ONE!!" Mettaton began.

#1: What's the prize for answering correctly? A: Money B: Mercy C: New car D: More questions

"D" Frisk said.

"RIGHT! SOUNDS LIKE YOU GET IT! HERE'S YOUR TERRIFIC PRIZE!"

#2: What's the king's full name? A: Lord Fluffybuns B: Fuzzy Pushover C: Asgore Dreemurr D: Dr. Friendship

"C"

"CORRECT! WHAT A TERRIFIC ANSWER! NOW, ENOUGH ABOUT YOU. LET'S TALK ABOUT ME!"

#3: What are robots made of? A: Hopes & Dreams B: Metal & Magic D: Sugar & Spice

"B"

"TOO EASY FOR YOU, HUH?????????? WELL, HERE'S ANOTHER EASY ONE FOR YOU!"

#4: Two trains, Train A and Train B, simultaneously depart Station A and Station B. Station A and Station B are 252.5 miles apart from each other. Train A is moving at 124.7mph towards Station B, and Train B is moving at 253.5mph towards Station A. If both trains departed at 10:00AM and it is now 10:08, how much longer until both trains pass each other? A: 31.054 minutes B: 16.232 minutes C: 32.049 minutes D: 32.058 minutes

Frisk looked over at Alphys, who'd had her hands shaped like the letter D.

"D"

"WONDERFUL! I'M ASTOUNDED, FOLKS!" Mettaton said, spraying Frisk with confetti. "DON'T 'COUNT' ON YOUR VICTORY..."

Mettaton's screen switched over to a jar of flies.

#5: How many flies are in this jar? A: 54 B: 53 C: 55 D: 52

Frisk looked back at Alphys, who now had her hands in the shape of the letter A.

"A"

"CORRECT! YOU'RE SO LUCKY TODAY!!! NOW, LET'S PLAY A MEMORY GAME." Mettaton's screen then switched to half of a Monster's face.

#6: What Monster is this? A: Froggit B: Whimsun C: Moldsmal D: Mettaton

The screen, Frisk recognized, showed half the face of a Monster from the Citadel, Froggit. Having answered this way before, Frisk looked over at Alphys instead of relying on his own seemingly flawed knowledge. Alphys had her hands in the shape of a D.

"D" he said, doubting.

"I'M SO FLATTERED YOU REMEMBERED!" Mettaton said as the Monster's face zoomed out to reveal Mettaton wearing a shirt with a Froggit design on it.

"What? How is that even fair?" Chara said, watching with disgust.

"Meet Mettaton." Frisk mumbled back.

"BUT CAN YOU GET THIS ONE???" Mettaton said.

#7: Would you smooch a ghost? A: Heck Yeah B: Heck Yeah C: Heck Yeah D: Heck Yeah

Chara and Alphys stood speechless at this question as a tiny smirk made its way across Frisk's face.

"Heck Yeah!!!" Frisk said.

The gaze of both Alphys and Chara fell upon him, disapproval practically oozing from their demeanor.

"GREAT ANSWER! I LOVE IT!!!!!!!" Mettaton said.

"You answered that with way too much enthusiasm." Chara rebuked.

Frisk chuckled a bit as Mettaton continued.

"HERE'S A SIMPLE ONE."

#8: How many letters are in the name Mettaton? A: 11 B: 6 C: 8 D: 10

"C"

"OF COURSE THAT WAS EASY FOR YOU! TIME TO BREAK OUT THE BIG GUNS!!"

#9: In the dating simulation video game 'Mew Mew Kissy Cutie', what is Mew Mew's favorite food?

Before Mettaton could finish reading the question, Alphys jumped in and began gushing the answer.

"OH! OH! I KNOW THIS ONE!!!" she shouted. "IT'S SNAIL ICE CREAM!!!!!!!! IN THE FOURTH CHAPTER EVERYONE GOES TO THE BEACH AND SHE BUYS ICE CREAM FOR ALL HER FRIENDS BUT IT'S SNAIL FLAVOR AND SHE'S THE ONLY ONE WHO WANTS IT!!!!!! IT'S ONE OF MY FAVORITE PARTS OF THE GAME BECAUSE IT'S ACTUALLY A VERY POWERFUL... message... about... friendship, and..." Alphys began slowing down, looking extremely worried over at Mettaton.

"ALPHYS, ALPHYS, ALPHYS." Mettaton said. "YOU AREN'T HELPING OUR CONTESTANT, ARE YOU? OOOOOOH!!! YOU SHOULD HAVE TOLD ME. I'LL ASK A QUESTION YOU'LL BE SURE TO KNOW THE ANSWER TO!"

#?: Who does Dr. Alphys have a crush on? A: Undyne B: Asgore C: You, the Human D: You don't know

Frisk pulled out the pocketwatch and pressed the button on top. SAVED displayed across its face, and Frisk stored it back into his pocket.

"What are you doing?" Chara asked.

"Experimenting." he whispered back.

Frisk stepped forward and, with utter confidence, said "Alphys has a crush on Asgore Dreemurr."

Both Chara and Alphys shrieked in horror as both brought their hands up to their face, Chara to cover her mouth, and Alphys to cover her shame.

"WHY WOULD SOMEONE OUTFIT AN AMUSEMENT ROBOT..." Mettaton began, "WITH BRUTAL COMBAT CAPABILITIES? SIMPLE. TO IMPRESS MR. ASGORE DREEMURR, OF COURSE! OR AS ALPHYS CALLS HIM... 'MR. DREAMY'. THOSE STRONG ARMS... THAT LUSTROUS BEARD... LIKE ALL THOSE WHO CREATE WEAPONS, SHE CRAVES THE TENDER EMBRACE OF A BURLY MAN. CAN SHE TRULY BE BLAMED?"

Frisk pulled out the pocketwatch and twisted the top dial. LOAD? appeared on its face, and Frisk pressed the button.

"WHO DOES DR. ALPHYS HAVE A CRUSH ON?" Mettaton asked again, restating the four options.

"Whoa, what just happened?" Chara asked.

"I went back to before I answered the question."

"How did you know you could do that?"

"I... I don't really know. If I had to guess, I'd say the Timepiece basically... transferred that knowledge to me, I guess."

"Huh, interesting."

"TAKE ALL THE TIME YOU NEED, HUMAN." Mettaton said. "IT TRULY IS QUITE THE HEAD-SCRATCHER."

Frisk stepped forward. "Oh, don't you know? Alphys has a crush on me, of course. But can you really blame her? I mean, who wouldn't."

Alphys gave Frisk the stink eye again as Mettaton stood, for the first time ever, somewhat speechless.

"... SERIOUSLY?" Mettaton said after a minute of processing. "MY MY... HOW CONCEITED CAN YOU GET...? I LOVE IT! AND WHILE YOU ARE COMPLETELY WRONG, YOU DESERVE SOME CREDIT. I'VE SEEN HER WATCH YOU ON HER COMPUTER SCREEN, SMILING WHEN YOU SUCCEED, SHRIEKING WHEN YOU FAIL, AND ALWAYS, ALWAYS, WHISPERING 'NO! WRONG! YOU HAVE TO GO THAT WAY!' IN ITS OWN WAY, IS THIS NOT LOVE??"

Frisk pulled the pocketwatch from his pocket again and went back to before he answered.

"I dunno." he said upon returning.

"CORRECT." Mettaton congratulated. "DR. ALPHYS HAS A CRUSH ON... THE UNKNOWABLE."

Alphys went from giving Frisk the thumbs-up to looking reprehensively at Mettaton.

"YOU SEE, ALPHYS BELIEVES THERE IS SOMEONE OUT THERE. SOMEONE WATCHING HER. SOMEONE SHE THINKS IS 'CUTE' AND 'INTERESTING'. HELLO, THEORETICAL PERSON. DR. ALPHYS LIKES YOU. TOO BAD YOU ARE NOT REAL." A derisive laugh track then played from Mettaton's speakers.

"H-hey, I've done research about this!" Alphys said. "There are alternate universes out there! S-someday, maybe, I could meet them..."

"YOU SAID THE EXACT SAME THING ABOUT 'MEW MEW KISSY CUTIE'. BUT I'LL GIVE YOU THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT. PERSON, IF YOU'RE OUT THERE... HOW ABOUT GIVING US A SIGN, RIGHT NOW?"

Everything in the laboratory went silent for about a minute. Nothing.

"THAT SETTLES THAT, DOESN'T IT?"

Frisk pulled the pocketwatch out one last time and went back to before he answered the question.

#?: Who does Dr. Alphys have a crush on? A: Undyne B: Asgore C: You, the Human D: You don't know

"Dr. Alphys has a crush on..." Frisk paused for dramatic effect. "Undyne! The captain of the Royal Guard!!!"

Alphys gave a shriek as she covered her face in horror.

"SEE, ALPHYS?" Mettaton said. "I TOLD YOU IT WAS OBVIOUS. EVEN THE HUMAN FIGURED IT OUT. YES, SHE SCRAWLS HER NAME IN THE MARGINS OF HER NOTES. SHE NAMES PROGRAMMING VARIABLES AFTER HER. SHE EVEN WRITES STORIES OF THEM TOGETHER... SHARING A DOMESTIC LIFE. PROBABILITY OF CRUSH: 101 PERCENT. MARGIN OF ERROR, ONE PERCENT."

Chara's face contorted somewhat as Mettaton rolled back over to Frisk.

"WELL WELL WELL. WITH DR. ALPHYS HELPING YOU... THE SHOW HAS NO DRAMATIC TENSION! WE CAN'T GO ON LIKE THIS!! BUT. BUT!! THIS WAS JUST THE PILOT EPISODE!! NEXT UP, MORE DRAMA! MORE ROMANCE!!! MORE BLOODSHED!!! UNTIL NEXT TIME, DARLINGS...!!!"

Mettaton's arms and leg retracted into the larger box-section, which was quickly replaced with the scream of a rocket as steam erupted from the bottom of the metallic shell. Mettaton rose, blasting off through the roof of the lab.

Alphys shifted awkwardly in place after Mettaton left. "Well that was certainly something." she said.

"Sure was. Say, Alphys. You made that robot, right?"

"Uh, y-y-yeah."

"Great! Think you could upgrade my phone as well?"

Alphys's face brightened up. "Of course! I'll do it right away!!"

Alphys took Frisk's phone upon being offered it and ran up the nearby escalator. Mechanical noises sounded from the floor above before Alphys finally re-emerged and handed his phone back.

"Here," she said, offering it back to Frisk. "It can do texting, items, it's got a key chain... I even signed you up for the Underground's #1 social network! Now we're officially friends!"

Frisk's face twitched for a second. "Thanks. I'll see you around!" he said before exiting the lab.

"You seem uncharacteristically not hostile to her." Chara said a bit up the path.

"She's trying. In many senses. Plus, being an ass to her right now isn't gonna help anybody."

"I see..."

Frisk continued across the base paths, quickly reaching Mettaton's second appearance: Cooking with a Killer Robot. Clearing this challenge easily, Frisk continued onward to the R1 elevator.

As the two walked down the pathway, they were chatting up the interesting encounter they'd just emerged from with Mettaton. Approaching the elevator, Frisk pressed the call button. Almost immediately, the doors opened, but instead of the welcoming cabin of the elevator car, within was a completely alabaster white room, a tall headless figure standing near the doorway holding a head in its arms.

Frisk stepped back, shocked by the appearance of this entity.

The Monster stepped from the elevator towards the pair.

"H... hello?" Frisk said, his throat feeling awfully dry.

"Alphys might work faster." the head in the Monster's arms spoke. "But the old royal scientist, Doctor W.D. Gaster? One day, he vanished without a trace. They say he shattered across time and space." the head then laughed. "How wrong that thought could be. We suffer in endless agony."

As the head finished speaking, a blast of darkness engulfed the area, which cleared just as fast. When it did clear, the Monster, the head, and the room behind the now closed elevator doors were gone.

"Wh... what the hell was that?" Frisk said.

"I... I don't know... Didn't that Monster say something about Gaster?"

"Y... yeah. Doctor W.D. Gaster. Can't say I know them, the only times I've heard 'Gaster' is with Serif, Charon, Sans, Papyrus, and Calibri."

"There's another... the one that Monster spoke of..."

"Who?"

"I... I don't..."

Frisk sighed. "I understand. If you feel up to it later, you can talk to me."

Frisk pressed the call button for the elevator again. Almost instantly, the doors opened, this time to the proper place. Stepping inside, Frisk pressed the "R2" button and turned to watch the doors slide closed.

Upon the doors opening on the second level, Frisk sped through the mid-station as fast as he could, heading for the L2 elevator. Roughly half-an-hour later, with numerous puzzles, the Royal Guards, and finally Mettaton standing in his way, Frisk finally made it.

Approaching the tower that the L2 elevator was inside, Frisk noticed a grey snake-like creature wrapped around the walkway, it massive head resting on its belly. Stepping close to the creature, its wicked eyes snapped open and its head rose.

"I understand why Asgore waited so long to hire a new Royal Scientist." the snake-Monster said. "The previous one, Dr. Gaster, his brilliance was irreplaceable. However, his life... was cut short. One day, his experiment went wrong, and..."

The snake uncoiled from the walkway and fell out of sight. Looking over the edge, Frisk could only see the boiling magma below.

"What is going on?" he asked.

Chara remained silent.

Sighing, Frisk walked over to the L2 elevator and stepped inside, heading up to L3. Upon arriving, he stepped onto the Summit Platform.

"It makes sense why Asgore took so long to hire a new Royal Scientist." another voice sounded as soon as Frisk arrived. Looking over, this Monster looked almost Human, but heavily leathery. "After all, the old one... Dr. Gaster... What an act to follow! They say he created the CORE. However, his life... was cut short. One day, he fell into his creation, and..." the Monster sighed. "Will Alphys end up the same way?"

Before Frisk could interrogate this Monster, it approached the edge of the Platform and leapt off.

"Chara..." he said, horrified by this strange display. "Who is Dr. Gaster?"

Chara took a deep breath. "As those cryptic Monsters said, he was the old Royal Scientist. He made many fantastical objects, like that phone you have there, and many more. I do not know what these Monsters speak of regarding his death, nor do I know what the relation he has with Sans, Papyrus, and Calibri, but I do know that Serif and Charon were his brothers. I can also say with ease that his name was Wing Ding Gaster, apparently after his father."

"I see. Thank you."

With at least some questions regarding this entity answered, Frisk continued along the Summit Platform, towards the true summit of Mount Hot.

Emergence : The Followers

Previous First posting First of this book Next