It was a chilly, rainy evening as you and your favorite Bone guy just relaxed and watched whatever on either the television he had playing, or your phones.
Where the rain came, soft sounds of thunder could be heard a little ways away... Though it's been a while, could still feel your boney lover pull you closer to his side.
Mutt always hated that type of weather; Brought back bad memories he said... But, he wasn't scared of it, no. It would just put him on edge, waiting for when the ceiling would crumple and how fast he would have to move.
Wrapped your arm back around his waist, a leg curling over his thigh as you rested against his chest. Despite him not breathing, there was always a soft hum and a certain warmth that came off the Skeleton.
Giving him a look, offering him one of your snacks; He eased and happily took to eating out of your hand.
He tried to nip at your fingers, but you were quick to retract your hand with a soft laugh... Mutt loved to try and get his fangs on you anyway he could.
"aw, c'mon, I want anotha, Baby." He nuzzled into your hair, could hear him licking his fangs so close to your ear-
"Ugh, no!" Shivered and tried to shy down where he couldn't reach you. "Absolutely not- You just tried to nip my fingers! Brat."
Mutt's little laugh came; Only to turn into a growl as he followed and nuzzled the top of your head.
"ohhhh, naaaah, don't call m'a brat yet, Baby... ya offered m'food, I was jus' makin' sure ya didn't have no crumbs lingerin'..."
Couldn't help but squeak; The farther you tried to duck, the more he just seemed to curl after you- Couldn't get away, he was even nipping your hair now!
"Russ! RUSS! No- Stooooop!!! Now you're really being a brat!" A laugh was bubbling out of your chest, trying hard to push and keep his boney ass at bay-
But despite that, he just seemed to engulf you; His lanky body had you slide into your shared bed. Mutts eye lights stared down at you so lovingly as you tried to squirm from him...
But his damnable clawed hands kept you under him; One intertwined with yours while his other kept you planted by your hip...
When you finally realized your position; Felt your face burning and trying to look anywhere but at him. He loved watching you like this...
"oh, no..." Mutt mocked a soft sigh. "look at all them crumbs..."
"Wait, what??" Blinked and tried to look down at yourself, only to see indeed; Your chest was covered in them. "Oh-... Oh, no, hey- W-wait now-"
Looked at Mutt whose sockets were lidded dangerously, a playful grin on his fangs as he gave such a husky laugh.
"ya know... ya call m' a brat fer jus' bein' lovin'... n here ya are, makin' such a mess in th'bed..." Mutts hand raked up from your hip to your chest, his tongue snaking out as he gave a show. "...might gotta clean ya up, y'know..."
Just then, a flash of lightning came; Issuing in the BIGGEST sound of thunder you've heard of yet this year; Shaking the whole building-
Mutts body tensed, his claws off you instantly as he practically curled you protectively underneath him...
When realization hit that nothing would happen; Mutt relaxed and groaned... He buried into your neck and just wrapped you in his arms, a muffled 'sorri' coming from him...
Wrapping him up in your arms, hushed him down and gave his cranium kisses.
"Don't ever be sorry; That was the biggest one yet, and sounds like it won't be the last for a while..."
"...yeah..." He said, only to sigh hard into you. "...hate how similar it sounds, dude..."
"I know, I know... But thank you for being so protective?" Tried to cheer him up.
It was silent though; The thunder was just rumbling outside... And though it was still flashing some, it wasn't so bad now as the rain began to come down hard.
Just as you thought Mutt was possibly asleep-
"ACK! RUSSELL!" You squealed, squirming under the sneaky bastard who just licked your neck. "Off!! Oh my GOD, OFF!"
"hehehehe... nah." He was laughing, keeping you pinned as he kept licking along your throat and even along your collar bone. "... fer once, m' a lil'excited ta clean up... n thunda won't keep m' from it..."
"cause i don' like no one havin m'true name." Mutt spoke idly, playing with her hair as he kept her in his lap like usual.
"Sooo... You play by Fae rules." She pointed playfully at him, those green eyes furrowed in thought.
"...fae... rules?" Mutt slowly asked, curious, though confused.
"Yeah! Fae rules!" She expressed wildly, her arms and legs both spreading out wide before she got up and fixed herself into his lap. "Fae's back home were these-... Magical beings! With wings! And they're connected to magic, very picky with who they give their names and those who gave theirs willingly; It's said that the Fae have partial control over them! So, you don't want people controlling you, yeah?"
What a wild imagination she had... Mutt couldn't help but laugh, coming and gently cupping her face so longingly. Looking into her eyes so entranced already...
"ain't no body controllin' m'., Baby.." He assured, giving her a kiss. "... i'll debate lettin' ya, tho'."
She gave him a kiss back, but playfully gasped and grabbed his jaw bone back. It surprised him, but he loved it when she had such a hyper spell.
"That means I need your true name, Mutt!" Her eyes shone brightly, excitedly, with an innocent giddiness he couldn't get enough of. "What's that name then, hmm??"
"easy, easy now..." Mutt didn't pull back but wrapped her in his arms, nuzzling their foreheads softly. "... if i gave ya m'name, you'd jus' use tha' powa ova me, wouldn'cha?"
Her soft little giggle came as she nuzzled him back, wrapping her arms around his vertabrea and gave kisses along his jawbone.
"I'd give you the freedom you'd deserve, Sweetsoul." She spoke so warmly, so lovingly against his fangs. "I'd never ask for such a power... But I would love to call you something other than Mutt!"
They both laughed; The evening went on like that... Cuddles and finding comfort in both their prescenes, until Mutt's time was up with his little Star.
And for a while; It stayed like that. Mutt would come to Muffets, but instead of drowning himself in her toxcins; He found the more he spent time with Star, the better he felt.
The warmer he was.
Countless nights, he would vent to her. Countless times, instead of using her body as intended; Mutt would caress and care for her, not once passing her boundary unless she initiated first. And he found himself telling her things, not anyone knows...
Before he knew it; He realized...
Mutt was deep in Love.
"hey, Starshine." Mutt welcomed his little Human like all the other times.
Arms wrapped around her, his little Princess, the most Healing thing he could ever dream of...
Before Star could give him a welcome back; Mutt pressed a claw against her lips to silence her, an absolutely fond smile on his fangs at her.
"... don' call m'Mutt anymore, Baby..." He whispered, keeping his voice down as he leaned and gave her ear a soft kiss before silently whispering; "...call m'Russ... n i wanna b'yers..."
Sitting at your computer, typing away and studying some new programs; Felt a sudden pressure in the air that made you look toward the door.
Normally, the stomps of Sans would be accompanying that pressure in the air; It was a magical sense where you knew to stay out of the brothers way when in certain moods... However, this one?
It was oddly silent in the house...
If it was the shorter one, Sans would have came and basically torn your door hinges off by now; Ranting or complaining about something that pissed him off. This, however? This wasn't Sans pressure...
The eerily silence was making goosebumps on your skin, the hair on your arms standing up... Was there an intruder in your shared home?? Who would dare enter this place, knowing of how powerful the Skeleton brothers were?!
Just as you thought that; A knock on your door came before it opened, showing Mutt.
A wave of ease came rushing over you, only to notice his hood was down over his sockets more than normal. His stance seemed too tight, and that fanged smile that would always tease you, was no where to be seen.
"Russ?" You spoke softly, sliding from your seat and giving the brooding skeleton your attention. "Are you-... Alright?"
Mutt's lone eye socket peeked up at you; He was silent, just staring at you... At first, he seemed so pissed; Then it clicked that the pressure was coming from him.
Nerves began to swarm as you locked eye contact with him... Never once had you seen him so upset? He was always calm, flirty even... Felt a little fearful, knew if either of them wanted to; They could kill you...
"Hey... Welcome home?" You tried, opening your arms to him in a means to try and ease your own fears.
That made him slump, his lone eyelight finally easing as he slowly walked to you. His footsteps, which used to be so loud and heavy on the wooden floor; Was silent with the boots he wore.
Mutt shed off his coat as he finally got close to you, letting it drop to the floor with a thud. He was easy to pick you up, aiming for the bed as he fixed you in his arms. Mutt sat on the edge, holding you into his lap as he shoved his shoes off and rolled into the bed with you.
A soft giggle came from you; But silence... Felt that pressure ease down, but nothing too drastic.
Wrapped your arms around him, locking your fingers together and holding him close. Mutt tucked your head under his chin, finally a soft sigh coming from him as he began to curl into you; Felt his fangs bury into the top of your head.
Ironically, he could always engulf you; He was far larger, but it felt like he wanted to bury into you for once...
"Hey, Russ? Here-... Let me do something real quick?" Asked softly, patting his chest and trying to look up.
For a long moment, Mutt didn't want to loosen his grip... In fact, seemed like he held you just enough tighter, that pressure in the air got even heavier...
Until he gave a hard sigh, his arms easing, and gave you whatever chance you wanted to do.
Easily moved up; Saw Mutt's sockets overly tired, that pissed off emotion staying in place though it was obvious he was trying to soften it for you... His poor eyesockets were even more grey, and softly cupped his face-
"Russ... Hun, what has happened?" You spoke so warmly with worry, rubbing your thumbs under his eyesockets.
Mutt closed them, tightening his sockets as he gave that growl; That annoyed growl as he gently rubbed into your hands, though obviously wanting to hide his face... He wasn't up for talking.
Took a few more moments to study his face, only to ease him into your chest; Reciliation dawned on his face as he was quick to follow your lead. He buried into you, his arms coming and wrapping back around and could feel his claws digging into your sides, the clothing giving a soft squeak as he dug holes into them in his grip as your legs tangled up together.
Wrapped an arm around his neck, a hand gently rubbing his skull in what you hoped was soothing, giving him a soft kiss to the cranium.
Mutt began to relax; That pressure in the air slowly began to disperse, a growling sigh reverberated through your body that had you shiver; But hugged him even tighter.
Before you knew it; He was fast asleep into you. Mutt's soft snoring began to filter as that magic energy finally soothed down back to nothing.
Hi, hello, some little Swapfell Red Past brain rot for you all...
Think of it; Lil'Sansy, only 7 years old, walks outside to see his neighbor with a HUGE belly try doing some hard laboring things or even just trying to lean down to get something she dropped... Looks damn stupid, whatever it is- Sans is full of piss and vinegar and decides he's going to go right over there and give her a piece of his mind! She's a walking target with such a huge belly and slow paces- Obviously she's going to be a target outside if anyone walks by!
He marches right up to this poor, struggling Rabbit monster, who has the biggest stomach he's EVER SEEN yet- And he huffs and says;
"HEY! Lady! Why are you so fat for!? What're ya doing outside?! You don't need to try to be a target if THATs what you're doing." Sans huffed, trying to act tough.
The Rabbit monster turns, a little stunned and blinked at this small monster... Only to start laughing.
"Eh?! Are you dumb too, Lady?! What the hell are you laughing at?!" Sans huffs, growling up at this Monster. How dare she!!
"My, you sure gotten your fangs early, didn't you?" She laughs even more. "Most kids your age don't get such venom until they're out of their stripes... How old are you, Hunny?"
Sans is so taken off guard from this lady- She's treating him so nicely??? No, it's a trick! A trick!
"None of your business, ya old hag!" Sans barks, his magic sparking some in mock intimidation. "What're ya doing out here with such a damn fat belly, huh?! Exercise inside, you moron!"
The rabbit monster, though fails, tries to erase the smile on her own fangs. She looks at him before looking at her belly and gently rubs it, gaining Sans attention.
"I am pregnant, Hunny." She says in such a soft, motherly tone; Patiences only for such a young monster.
Sans blinks, not understanding what that word means...
"Pregnant?" He mimics. "The hell does that mean?"
"It means I am with little babies in my belly!" She beams at him so happily. "Would you like to feel them? They're starting to kick now, haha. You must've startled them."
Sans gives her the most incredulous look...
"You-... You have BABIES in your BELLY?!" Sans balks in horror. "DID YOU EAT THEM?! HOW EVIL ARE YOU?!"
The Rabbit monster bursts out laughing harder-
"Ohhhh, I am the MOST eviliest Rabbit in our section, Deary!" She began to show her sharp features at the young Sans, making her claws do the 'ooooo, so spooky' wiggles... "I eat kids like YOU, adding you to my BELLY COLLECTION! MWAH-HAH-HAH!"
Sans flinched hard, ready to head back to the house in fear-
"sorri, Lady-" Papyrus voice came groggily, a hand on his little brother's shoulder. "can't let ya eat em ta add ta yer collection... he's a lil'too spicy fer ya ta handle, m'afraid."
"AHK! Dammit, Papy!!" Sans turned, smacking his brothers hand off him. "Don't you sneak up on me like that- AND I WOULDN'T LET HER EAT ME AT ALL!!!"
"hope bro didn't botha ya too much?" Papyrus moved his hand to his brothers skull, instincts slowly pushing Sans behind him some.
"Oh, no no, none at all! He's such a fireball, he reminds me of my own son when he was that young, ironically." The rabbit monster smiled fondly only to rub the back of her head. "I couldn't pass up this opportunity to tease him, does he not know how rabbit monsters reproduce?"
"ah, well... we both don't, actually..." Papyrus chuckled, looking at Sans who was now puffing his cheeks out and crossing his arms.
"Oh? Oh, dear... Well, that explains a lot! Haha... I'm Ruka, it's nice to meet you boys." She spoke with such warmth in her tone, offering Papyrus her paw in a handshake.
"oh-... uh-... Papyrus." He said hesitantly, his bone brow raised as he took her hand and shook it. "this's Mugsly-"
"SANS!" He growled out. "Don't you say such stupid, random ass names... And Dad told you not to shake strangers hands!"
"Not a stranger anymore when you exchange names-" Ruka gave Sans a wink. "Sans, right?"
"Ah-... AH!! BROTHER, YOU JERK!" Sans stomped his foot before trying to punch his brother in the back. "You're suppose to be PROTECTING ME!"
"easy, easy-" Papyrus laughed, holding him back by his skull and looking to Ruka. "ya see th'shit I gotta deal wit', Ruka? he abuses m' s'much, haha..."
"Ohhhh, such a handful, I bet..." Ruke chuckled into her paw. "Well... Sans, how about we try again? I'm Ruka, and the reason why my belly is so big is because it's full of unborn babies who will be due soon. And because I have so many, it's very tough for me to move around... I do thank you for being so sweet to tell me I would be a target, even though I was a stranger to you before."
Sans felt his cheeks flush- He wasn't WORRIED over her! How dare she think that- He just- UGH! THIS MONSTER!
"Did you know rabbit monsters are the fastest to reproduce in the Queens Section?" She began, that smiling staying on her face. "And we are to produce the strongest little bunnies for her Majesty... Only the purest Monsters can make up for the Love, Compassion, and Kindness that was forcefully taken from us by the Humans we all rightfully hate."
Sans tensed up, but gave her an odd look... "You-... You don't consider us humans?..."
"Why would I?" Ruka tilted her head some. "You both are obviously not humans... I've never seen their bones walk! It's usually a sign that they've died!" She smiled warmly.
Both of the brothers relaxed for once... Many don't tend to see them like that; Other monsters had ridiculed them for being what they are, despite the obvious powers they possess and the soul that thrums in their chest.
"So... You-... Make babies and they form in your belly?" Sans spoke with caution, careful to step towards Ruka yet held his brothers pant leg in his new nerves. "...How do you do it? What process do you take? And uhm... You said they were-... M-moving?"
Ruka beamed at Sans new curiosity, nodding with pride. "Yes! Here, you boys are free to feel them move; Ahg- They kick like the dickens..." She groaned to a particularly heavy kick.
Papyrus watched as Sans was the first to make the move; Slowly, Hesitantly, Sans reached... Kept looking up at Ruka, like this was still some sort of a trick, that maybe she would turn and do-... Something no sooner he would touch her.
As Sans little hand rested on Rukas stomach, he shut his sockets tight; Waiting for anything to happen...
...Thump...
Sans sockets fluttered open as he felt movement indeed hit his hand. Quick to look at Ruka in amazement, Ruka only smiled back that tender smile reserved only for mothers to give.
Sans and Papyrus learned many things that day; How many a Rabbit could produce in one setting, how many times they could get pregnant within the year, and how long they have their youngest until they were taken either for the Queens Army or for more potential Mothers...
The boys became fond over Ruka after the next few weeks; Sans always made sure to go over and help the Soon-to-be-Mother(again) with anything she needed help with. All the chores, dinner preparations, and learned quite a few tricks with detail cleaning and hacks Ruka loved to do with particularly hard stains...
General Li and Alphys were soon introduced; Quickly enjoying the rabbits company in this small community they lived in. It was hard to find such kind natured Monsters, harder yet to find a like-minded family so close that the kids all got along...
Not just mine, but those who work below me, as well...
I'm not fond of lies spreading, but I have my ways of dealing with misjift cowards trying to derail the trust I worked hard into this annoying existence I was brought into.
The rumor is that I have been having a relationship with my Second Commander...
Whoever brought that up will be found and brought to my own hands of Justice. They better HoPe I don't find them... For my works are legendary in this world.
Ribba the Rabbit; Though affectionately called that by family, makes me somewhat regretful I allowed her to join the stats of these beings I command.
Oddly an aloof and dimwitted female rabbit monsters with the mindset of a toddler on the best of days; Always smiling and laughing where she can, constantly getting my Soldiers riled up and playing along with her games... Ribba has even gotten my brother into her antics, but that isn't as shocking with my brothers records.
However, besides the obvious downfalls of her personality, there are some good qualities to her.. The only few saving graces to being in this pandemonium world of ours.
Ribba's speed and hindsight of not needing to see where she strikes an enemy; Able to deal either deathly wounds or just an ounce of their life; Has gained her the nickname "Brisk Lapin".
Having another pair of hands to do that is a feature; Something not many of the others can do. Otherwise, I wouldn't have her in my quadrants to begin with...
Another is how she can keep the HoPe of the others alive. Her ability to be almost carefree and flowing with many creatures down here have easily broken up many fights. She says she doesn't have patience's, just plenty of experience when her toddler siblings would fight... Her tactics are that of a Mother, but it works. Annoyingly so.
But there is something odd with my Second Commander... I have noticed her ears will twitch first to others when they speak to her; But I suspect it's a power stance which I can admire.
Noticed the things others wouldn't with her paws; how she will tap certain items like tables with items on them and slightly hover her fingers until she reached the desired item in question. Or how she fumbles and makes it look like she's a clumsy rabbit...
Whether it's to have others guess her techniques and wonder how she got into my army's ranks or there is actually something wrong with her is still a secret I will be finding out on a later date.
For now; How could I possibly have any connection to a creature who is so opposite to myself in ways of personality? She doesn't even strike fear into others. She doesn't growl, doesn't yell, and takes those who yell at her rather than standing up for herself...
... But I saw that if it's for those under her; She stands up and shows a different side to that-... Disgustingly sweet side.
They have written in terms of how she strikes fear into those who have harmed her section. Issuing in some deaths, which from the aspects of the situation; Were unavoidable.
Perhaps-... The Judge wasn't wrong when they assigned her to being the new Second Commander.
...
Why would I care though?
She's just a rabbit monster; The shortest breed there is, as well. Normally used in the Parlor of Muffet's as prostitute's, somehow missed the memo & joined the ranks...
Perhaps that is why such a rumor is spreading...
...
It's a good thing I just found the deceitful imbecile, brave enough to run their mouth with me right behind him.
Time to show them not to mess with the Black Executioner.
she told m' somethin' special. she told m' ta continue livin' fer her when her time finally came.
bu'-... i was stubborn. stupid. selfish... i wanted t'share m'monsta heritage, wanted ta keep her goin' wit'me, no matta how i could wit' Undynes help. i knew there was a way-
...bu' she refused.
she refused all m'help, all m'thoughts on how ta continue her life. i told her we were gettin' close ta bustin' her outta th'hell she was in...
bu' she said she'd jus' b'livin' in hidin'... how would tha' b'betta than her life she had then? least she had some type o'free will. some type o'freedom... i didn' agree, bu' no matta how much i begged, pleaded, was s'desperate fer her ta continue livin' wit' me, fer us...
she refused each time.
n her reasonin' was so, so simple...
"You're going to be okay-"
she spoke like she knew th'future-
my future, wit' her green eyes shinin' so brightly, so softly n full o'tha' love she got me hooked on...
"You're needed elsewhere, Russ." Star stroked m'cheek, wipin' m'tears away. "When I'm gone, you're going to continue on. You're going to see so many new and interesting things! Things we've only read about now-"
"how do ya know?!" i snapped, regrettin' how i barked at m'Sweet n gentle Star... s'full o'rage n'anger, frustration...
"Because-" Star giggled- giggled her sweet giggle as a means ta blockin' m'verbal attack- "You're just like that, Russ."
confused; annoyed, i wanted ta yell again at her, thinkin' she wasn' takin' m'seriously...
"You travel; You have that freedom now, and maybe one day-... It'll be strained, yes. But you still travel and you're not scared to continue on. With your Soul, that curiosity, that bravery-"
"m'a coward..." i wasn't proud o'cuttin' her off; i knew she hated tha' th'most when talkin'... bu' how could she call m' brave when she was th'bravest b'tween us combined?...
hell, i was hidin' away from camera's b'cause i didn' wanna deal wit' Muff's bullshit o'stealin' her parlors pride n' joy...
"Oh, sure!" She spoke, voice still sugary sweet n' nah sarcastic. "Everyone has cowardly inside them; But, truthfully; You're tactical. Always have been, you just don't see it!"
Star would always say tha'.... jus' ta make m'shuddup n pout, cause no- i didn' b'lieve her... bu', i got tired o'arguin' wit'her.
"But honestly, Russ. Let's be honest here..." She signed, movin' her hair away from her face wit' a slight sight o'a sad face.
"You're going to live way longer than I will. That's a fact you'll have to live with!" she playfully pointed her fingah at m', knowin' i would fight tha'...
bu', i kept m'fangs shut.
"You're handsome, sweet, and gentle... And you're helpful. In this world, you'll hear your new calling... Though it might not be with me; It'll be out there! Just... Don't ignore it, okay?" Star smiled, almost like she knew.
"If you feel that tug on your chest-" she playfully made a tug on m'jacket, right 'bove m'achin' soul. "-You have to follow it!"
She beamed tha' gorgeous smile at m' again...
"And! You gotta do it." Star added cheekily, givin' m' a look tha' had m' reply-
"why's i gotta do it fer?" i pouted, tryin' hard t'scowl when i wanted t'smile wit' her.
"Because..." She paused, her own eyes mistin' jus' enough b'fer she dashed it b'hind tha' smile again...
"Do it for me!"
tha's all it took fer me...
tha's all it took fer m'ta agree.
n i agreed even afta her death. afta we broke free.
The feelings are oddly annoying, the festering of emotions that rage in my chest seem to flutter. Burning. Like a machine ready to have a complete melt down with one more frustrating interaction.
But through it all, nothing will change but outcomes i pick.
Life will continue on, no matter if I feel different. No matter if it ruins reputations, bridges, or bonds; Life will continue on. Even if I wished it could all crash with me. Burn with me. Engulf me until it ruins the whole world, so everyone could feel my own misery.
Sadly, no matter how I wish that would be true; Realistically, it's just a twisted fantasy... Something of self-destorying, being bitter to everyone, and enjoying the backlash I would get would help feed this anger inside my chest.
That was-... Until I met someone.
I met someone who has the patience of a Saint. The feelings that dwell inside, seem to soothe down when they're near me. No matter how much of a harsh mind-spiral I'm going into, or lashing out for no better reason than to try and ruin yet another relationship; They seem to take it with stride.
It's odd, you know? It's odd to feel such serene atmosphere with someone who can be so chaotic, but yet... They're caring. Sweet... Sometimes, it irks me when they feel the need to apologize for helping me, but it isn't aimed at them... It's aimed at the people who bit their hands when only to help them through their own mess.
...My feelings are annoying to process. My thoughts, unrational if I try and think of myself. Of what I want. My own needs and boundaries that need to be held up to...
Perhaps it's because I spent so long numb? Maybe it was because someone in my past, who was suppose to help me grow; Had stunted me from not being the best I could have been... Jealousy. Greed. The need to feel like they had someone under their thumb at all time?
Who knows what my past captors wanted before... And to this time, who cares. All I know is; I can be as free as I want. My only limitation is myself.
And in a twisted sense; Maybe I held my own self back due from lingering fear I had not processed yet...
But this being I had found?
This being had helped me, and slowly continuing to, processing things I had long ago buried in my own chest. Numbing it with all I could, to forget that I am not just a tool for others, but a being who deserves the same respect and love as any other who is important.
The frustration of learning emotions, being so old now, are just as annoying to deal with as if one was yet again a toddler learning to run...
…The feeling of death was far from what Papyrus was expecting…
Wouldn’t he be in a state of dreaming right now? Wouldn’t he see something along the lines of a happier place he’d imagine would become his haven? Or even, not being able to think? To feel? To sense his body? To feel the need to breathe?
Speaking of, could feel something heavy against the side of his chest, which pained him…
Was he still alive?...
Felt his sockets opening with a creak as darkness filled his sight.
He couldn’t be alive… He should be dust and magic residue by now… So why could he still feel the need for breathing? Feel the dull ache that slowly began to consume his body, some parts picking up their throbs he so desperately wanted to escape from?
Something else wasn’t right as his sockets closed back… His sense of hearing was beginning to come, though it was more muffled and muddy voices followed with the sound of rushing water…
Instantly, the memory all flooded back as his sockets snapped open to the darkness. Though he tried to move his body; He was paralyzed with pain… However, the voices grew before going silent, a deafening silence which made Papyrus try all his might to move more for.
What was happening?! Who was that?! Maybe it was Mr. Lizando-- No… Alphys? Sans!? He hoped it wasn’t who he was thinking, the almost forgotten threat that was cursed at him all those years ago--
With a shiver crawling up his painful spine, he let out a growl… He swears if he’s back there, if his siblings had gotten mixed up with that, if Sans and Alphy are--
“ You’re okay.” A voice came soft yet stern. “Be still. You’re not allowed to move yet, so don’t do anything rash, Kid.”
“...don’ tell me wha’ t’do…” Papyrus growled at the unfamiliar voice. “where’re m’ lil’sibs… wha’d’ja do--” Just as he asked, his side seemed to be squeezed.
“Right beside you.” They said calmly. “They’re ironically in better shape than you are. Tell me, can’t you see?”
“...bullshit…” He responded, and though it pained him to make a snarl, he turned his attention to the voice; No, he couldn’t see, but he knew better…
He knew better than to believe someone new, whatever trickery--
“Paps… We’re okay.” The squeeze got tighter around his sides.
Papyrus halted himself to her voice… It sounded sleepy, like she was just waking up from a nap…
“...Lightenin’bug?...” His head turned down toward what he hoped was his younger sister, his arms fighting to wrap around her in a hug he was desperate to give.
Familiar hands came and rubbed along his jawbones, just like she would do back when she was just a tot… Instantly, Papyrus relaxed and he could feel his tears swelling in his sockets as he tortuously nudged into her palms.
“It’s me, Papy… It’s me, Alphy, we’re safe… We’re okay.” Alphy’s voice came and she nuzzled into his jaw. “I promise. You’ll be okay, Mr. Gerson and Undyne say so!”
Papyrus could only nuzzle her back, glad she seemed to be able to use her other arm…
“where’s Sans, Al? he okay, too?” He found himself almost begging. “he wit’cha?... ya guys are supposed ta always b’t’getha…”
“Ah-... He’s-... Sans is-” Alphys was trailing off, almost nervous to say.
Instantly, Papyrus felt a wave of cold wash over him as his tears ran down his cheeks…
No, of course Sans wouldn’t be okay… He left his brother for dead with the wolves… Papyrus tried though, he tried but he was so wounded… His own brother, his own bones and magic he swore to protect back in Hell, he was--
“I’m Here.”
Papyrus tried to turn to the sound of Sans despite the pain that shot up from his back.
“Sans?... Sans, are ya okay?? m’so sorr--”
“Save It.” Sans snapped, a sense of hatred coming from his bones.
Instantly, Papyrus eased down… Sans is right, he should be mad at him; Should hold a grudge--
Snapping could be heard right beside Papyrus’ skull. He followed the noise… Then the other side of his skull, which he leaned near. What was that? Who was clicking what? It sounded rough, as if someone was trying to make a fire with two flintstones…
“Sans, don’t snap your fingers at him like that!” Alphys defended.
“Shut Up. He Responds Well To The Sounds. At Least He Hasn’t Lost That…” Sans soberly spoke.
“It’s temporary blindness.” That same voice from earlier came. “With a little more food, he should regain his ability to conjure up his eyesight.”
“And If He Doesn’t?” Sans's voice sounded guarded, but Papyrus could hear the underlying worry.
Why would he be so worried? He should be pissed…
“Do not doubt the Medical books.” They chided. “Mr. Gerson took a lot of precaution due to your unique structure, be lucky we found you and not someone else who would put your dust in a bag and sell it… Or worse, keep you alive for their own profits. I know I would’ve.”
“I’d Rather Have No Life In Me Than Having Your Ass Save Us… We Were Just Fine!” Sans barked.
Always the instigator, Papyrus sighed…
“Oh, you call having your, quote on quote, ‘Sister’ dragging you and your brother with one arm and a broken tail, practically trying to find any type of help as passersby ignored you all, fine? I’d hate to see what would be great then, coming from you…”
“Oh, You SonOfA--”
Papyrus couldn’t help but smirk… But the image of Al doing that, all alone, watching her siblings in whatever states they were in and trying to ask for help… Made his soul twist in pain.
“Sans, that’s really too far… Can’t you say thanks?” Alphy’s sweet voice came. “Without Undyne, I’d have-... You’d probably-... My brothers would’ve-...”
A hic came from her as Sans fell silent.
Papyrus finally forced his arm up with whatever power he could muster and layed it along her back. Though the room fell silent with Alphy’s tears, it was at least nowhere near cold now…
Papyrus felt warm despite the pain he was in as his little sister hugged into him. Glad he could hear that they were in better spirits than he hoped for… It brought a smile to his fangs, and though it throbbed with a fang; He could relax in this unknown area they were in. With the scent of mud, the question rang if they were all still in Waterfall…
“I’m going to go get some food for your brother.” The unknown voice came, was their name Undyne? “I’ll also let Mr. Gerson know he’s up. Be back in a bit… And Sans, don’t mess with anything again. Or so help me, I will tape your arms behind your back! That’s a promise, you hear me?!”
“Oh, Like You’d Be Able To… Get Out Of Here Already, Shallow Tadpole!” Sans bit back.
“At least I’m not as shallow as your temper… Seriously, can’t even be grateful like your sister… Glad you both aren’t actually related.”
Damn, did that one have a bite to them; Not many could go against Sans and stay level headed.
“ah-... thanks, uhm-... Undyne?” Papyrus tried guessing with a soft laugh, genuinely grateful to whoever Undyne and this Mr. Gerson was. “fer savin’ m’baby sibs…”
“Oh, just them?” An eye roll could be felt, as if Papyrus was being dramatic. “I didn’t save you all and I’m not Undyne… I’m Monster Elder. Or just Me, for short.”
Papyrus couldn’t help a snrk… “heh-... a-allright, thanks-... Me?”
“BWAH-HAH-HAH! There we go, yes! Yes! Someone fell for it, finally!” The sound of stomping feet could be heard, marching in place almost.
Did he fall for something? What was so funny?
“Your Lousy Joke Sucks! Scram!” Sans bit.
“It’s like he thanked himself! I get it!” Alphy chirped, laughing with ‘Me’ as it infuriated Sans even more.
“Quit Feeding That Ego, Al!” Sans growled. “That Was So Lame!”
A bigger smile came along Papyrus’ face… That was his a bit funny-
Only for the smile to slowly turn sour… Thank himself? For not being strong enough to get them out of there?... Thinking back from all the damages that’ve been done--
Another boisterous laugh erupted from the beings chest. “Nah, nah… It’s actually Elder Monster, I just go by ‘Em. Like Got’em~”
Despite the obvious joke, it definitely felt like the stress was easing off his shoulders the more he heard laughing. Worry for his siblings slowly started slipping from his own mind.
However, laughter didn’t last too much longer as Papyrus heard Sans's familiar foot stomps before he took off; No doubt chasing after Elder out of the room if Alphy yelling out meant anything… But that made his own laughter start bubbling out--
Only to cough, feeling something dribble out of his mouth.
With a soft curse, he tried to turn his head away, to not let it hit Alphys--
“Hold on, I got that.” Alphy came and gently wiped his fangs, getting rid of the liquid.
“don’t-... it’s-”
“Hush. It’s nothing like before, if that’s what you’re thinking.” She spoke softly. “The acid you spat that day-... It doesn’t eat through the fabric, you’re back to being stable… You can thank Undyne for it-- Just wait until you see her, Pap! She’s so cool…”
Relaxing back, Papyrus smirked… “cooler than yer own brothas, Al? my, does someone gots a crush? heh heh--… nyeh--” A painful throb from his skull made him tense before relaxing again.
Alphy’s hand stuttered before halting… Did he hit a nerve? Was it too early to tease her? Or maybe it was because he flinched…
“it wasn’t ya, Lightnin’Bug, if tha’s wha’--”
“No...You really are right back to how you were.” Alphy’s voice wavered, but she breathed in and gave a soft laugh. “Thank the Gravel, we were told you might become-... Not… You anymore, with how much magic you had lost…”
“...really?” Papyrus couldn’t believe that; Was he that badly wounded?
Once a monster loses so much; It’s rare they make a comeback. Basically on the tittering edge of death due to the magic residue corroding their Souls, eating it up like an overused battery. If they do come back, they aren’t who they were before… Depending on the Monster and how badly wounded, they could do a total switch in personality or becoming a husk in general…
He’s had to put those down in the past… The past in Hell--
“It’ll be okay, now.” Alphys finished wiping his chin and he could feel her hug him once more. “They were right, we can heal you! Just you wait, Papy… Just you wait. We got you.”
With such determination, Papyrus sighed through the painful squeeze she was giving him and rubbed back into her forehead…
“... ya both did well… y’know?” Papyrus said, trying to hide his wavering voice. “wit’ everythin’ tha’ happened, m’so sorri fer nah bein’ stronga…”
Alphy slowly pulled back from him, and though he couldn’t see her worried expression; He could feel her grip on his shoulders tightening.
“What you did was save us, Papyrus…” She spoke gently. “Without you, we would be wishing for death right now. Who knows what would have happened-”
“i brought ya guys ta th’waterfall fer practice, Bug…” Papyrus interrupted. “if i was a bit more noticeable of our surroundin’s, we all wouldn’t’ve been-...”
“Okay… And you had two stubborn little kids, wanting to practice and didn’t want to wait for Dad to get home to do so. While being sick and hiding that from us, mind you…” Alphy blew his excuse off with a stern tone.
Papyrus sank into himself hearing that…
“Fact is; Don’t be blaming yourself, Papy. Was it avoidable? Like many things are, perhaps… But we went because Sans and I wanted to practice and got impatient. We thought you were just having one of your lazy days, we didn’t think you were sick. And with his ‘Smart Moves’, Sans triggered something none of us could imagine…”
Papyrus froze some… But he didn’t want to blame them, they didn’t deserve it-- He should have just said he wasn’t strong enough! He shouldn’t have hid being so sick--
“Papy… We know better that if you had known a big bad idiot was around; You wouldn’t have taken us that day… But, in a way… It gave us all an extra boost of experience we all were lacking…” She trailed off, felt like she wanted to say something more.
Her claws slightly dug into his shoulders before one let him go and she was back to sitting by him on his bedside.
“...Thank you… For pushing yourself for us, Brother.” She seemed to force out, rubbing his shoulder and ran her hand down his arm to hold his claws. “We-... All learned a lot. I don’t want to ever see you like that again.”
Again?...
“...was i scary?” Papyrus gently squeezed her hand as best he could.
“Terrifying!” Alphy let out a watery laugh. “Scary is an understatement! But-... I mean, I’m so glad I wasn’t on the wrong side that day!”
“...but?”
“But… I don’t want to see you or Sans in such a state again, where I can’t help at all.” Again, a watery laugh. “I’ve made my mind up, of what I wanna be when I grow up.”
“oh?” Papyrus perked, knowing Mr. Li was pushing her to be a healer.
“I’m going to become just like Dad; A Protector! I’ll become the next head leader! And make sure all crime and criminals are killed, so no more innocents are destroyed…”
“tha’s-... really different. I thought ya didn’ want yer Dad’s spot?” Papyrus questioned. “thought Sans was gunna aim fer tha’ spot, too?”
“I talked it over with Sans… With the both of us working together, Papy!? Do you know how safe the Underground will become?! Imagine that-- I’ll work so hard and out rank them ALL- I know Sans will, too! We’re way too competitive, y’know? We can share the title!! How cool would that be?”
Papyrus couldn’t help but keep his thoughts to himself… That isn’t how the Royal Guards worked, but he didn’t want to burst her little bubble, either…
“...I know Dad wanted me to be a healer like Mom, but…” Alphy spoke softly, her claws tapping on his bones gently. “... I don’t have the right mentality for that. I’m far too hot-headed, and I spark without meaning too when I get too annoyed, y’know?”
“I know…” Papyrus chuckled, remembering when she was a toddler and practically caused an electrical shortage in hotland due to Sans taking a toy she wanted to play with.
Speaking of, he could feel her energy sparking through their connections. It seemed like she leveled up, but he couldn’t tell just how much.
“Like… Remember when Sans and I were playing ‘King of the Rock’ and he said I couldn’t play cause I was a girl? And I was fleshy, so I’d get hurt easily?”
“boy, do i… n’ a lotta otha times…” Papyrus snrked.
“Yeah… I remember I fried his foot by accident. I mean, I won! But… That isn’t for a healer, you know?”
He smiled with sympathy… Healers were rare enough as it is down here. Not to mention, she’d be forced to stay close to the Queen, something he knew Mr. Li was hoping for to know she’d be alright for the rest of her life.
But with them? Well, Papyrus wasn’t sure what his own calling was yet… Sans had already shown interest in fighting, showing Mr. Li he was more than willing to do everything to be trained by him.
And with Mr. Li being the General? Of course, it’d be easy to get into the system quickly and effortlessly…
But something always bugged Papyrus, now with Alphy having the same dream… He hoped when the day came, they both wouldn’t knock the other down for the chance of becoming General.
“...hows yer arm, Bug?... ya seem ta be movin’ it well, heh…” Papyrus chose to change subject, trying to give Alphy another reassuring squeeze. “n how’s yer tail? did’ja break anythin’ else?”
“I’m back in tip-top shape, Papy!” She spoke proudly, the bed moving. “And look- Oh… Uhm, feel! Feel these!” She took his hand and brought it up to her one arm, helping him feel her growing muscles. “I got stronger while you were out! Isn’t that cool?! I am now a Level 3! I’m on my way up there already!”
Papyrus was confused, leveling up brings one's stats all up to max… So hearing she’s already up to Level 3 when before she was only Level 1 from before; Something was definitely going on…
“wow, yeah, tha’s somethin’, Al… how did’ja manage tha’?”
“Well-”
“You were in a coma for four months.” A new voice came, someone older which made Papyrus go immediately tense. “They had a good wait for you to wake up. Used it wisely, for sure.”
… Four months?! He was out for that long?!
“...H-hello.” Another very quiet voice came, no sooner something being shoved onto his side, earning a hiss from him. “O-oh-... S-shoot, sorry-”
“Don’t gotta be so nervous, Undyne! He’s your age, y’know?” Alphy came, taking whatever it was by his side and setting it on his chest as Papyrus gave a sigh. “Papy, Undyne! Undyne, Papyrus!”
Obviously Alphy was doing her signature move of arm waving, but he was more interested in the fact she said Undyne was his age… Turning his head hopefully to her, he tried to give a smile the best he could.
“heya… yer one who helped us, huh?”
“Y-... Yes, I-... am, uhm…” Undyne muttered before it all began a whisper.
A shy one, huh? Papyrus had never seen a shy Monster yet, this was the first time meeting one.
“thanks fer helpin’ us out, Undyne…” Papyrus spoke gently, softening hopefully at the monster. “s’, ya b’friendin’ m’lil’Al here, huh? thanks fer tha’too. hope Sans hasn’ chewed ya much… he can b’ a real mouthful, y’know?”
“O-oh! U-uhm!” The sound of shuffling came, followed by noise that sounded like something got dropped. “S-shoot--”
“I got’em!” Alphy was quick to zip off Papyrus’ side, to help with whatever it was… “Here ya go!”
So preppy her voice was… The soft thanks from Undyne came, just barely audible, but he heard it.
“You’re welcome!” Alphy apparently heard it, too.
Man, he’d give anything to actually see what was going on right now between the two… Bet Alphy was grinning up a storm. With a sigh, he remembered there was something long and flat left on his chest… The hell was it?
“Undyne, I know you’re wantin’ ta flirt wit’ th’youngin’, but your patient needs more attention right now, I believe.” Amusement danced in that unknown voice. “Ya haven’t even answered ‘em, neither… Ya know better, Kid.”
“Flirting?! We weren’t flirting, Gerson!” Alphy gave her signature growling. “I was just helping her out!! Quit reading into things!”
Papyrus would roll his eyelights if he could… How sweet to see her get so protective of a non-family member.
“Aye, ya weren’t just making googly eyes at th’other, huh?” Apparently this older voice was Gerson? “You’ve been gettin’ mighty close these last few weeks, Kiddy…”
“I--! Y-you know what!? What type of food is that?” Alphy quickly changed the subject, Papyrus giving a soft laugh himself from the display.
“Oh, nah gonna introduce me to your brother like ya jus’ introduce Undyne?”
Papyrus held his laugh, knowing what the other was doing…
An annoyed, flustered sound could be heard from Alphy before she hastily introduced them both. “Gerson, Papyrus. Papy, Gerson. He’s the adult in charge here.”
Swore he heard a small laugh from Undyne… But Papyrus didn’t know who all was in the room anymore. He was getting a little tired again, but gave Gerson a small head nod.
“Wonderful… Undyne has been making something very special for you, Papyrus. It will help stabilize your magic more, since you will no longer need the forced tube feedin’. Undyne, care ta explain it all t’yer patient?”
The words of being called ‘Patient’, this vibe Papyrus was getting, was getting him anxious all over again like when he was younger…
“Y-yes! Uhm!” Undyne spoke hesitantly. “S-so… When you were brought in, I noticed your Soul has been-... Tampered with. It’s not normal to begin with, so the antidote to fix came easily with a medical book Mr. Gerson found--”
“Dad, I’m her Dad.”
“...T-t-that my Father found…” Undyne cleared her throat before continuing to explain.
Whatever she was explaining made Papyrus start spiking; Certain words she used, the ‘food’ she created, and then he felt them…
Papyrus could feel the lines hooked into his chest, to his Soul, while another line was hooked to the side of his neck; He wanted to rip them all out, he wanted to run from the bed suddenly--
Where exactly was he?! Where did they take him?! Take them?! Back!? Back to the Labs!?
No-...
No, no, no,
No, No, NO, NO--
“Son, easy now.” A strong and familiar voice came. “Yer safe… We ain’t there.”
Papyrus was embraced by a familiar body, his body shaking hard as his breathing was ragged…
“... Mr. Li?” His voice trembled.
“Yeah… Yeah, s’me. s’Lizando… Breathe, Son. Breathe…” He spoke sternly but so softly, Lizando’s hands keeping him safely locked to his chest. “I got’cha…”
Knowing Mr. Li was there, that his siblings were there, that he wasn’t dreaming-
... So many things were passing through Papyrus’ mind, the pain in his chest he could no longer detain.
The fear he felt when he was forced to watch helplessly as his siblings were being held; The flashes of how he watched his sister's arm being broken, his brother's fangs being ripped out; The anger that he couldn’t be strong or big enough to deter any enemies; The waters, the roaring waters clashing against him, how acidic it was as it ate not just him, but his siblings…
Missing so much time with his siblings; Feeling the hatred bubble in his Soul of his own actions; Not being strong enough-
“I’m so proud of ya, Papyrus…” Mr. Li’s voice came. “Ya held out fer so long… Did what ya could ta be so strong fer yer sibs… Wit’out ya, I wouldn’ have such a good family waitin’ at home for me…” Mr. Li paused, before holding Papyrus just a bit closer.
“But, Son… why didn’t ya tell us ya were so sick, Buddy?...”
Papyrus buried his face into the only person he ever felt safe with, wracked with sobs as they came out of his chest as his claws dug into the fabric of his adopted Fathers back.
No answer was good enough, he felt; Not being a burden, not wanting others to worry, and perhaps…
Perhaps… Papyrus didn’t want to be alive anymore. To be this ongoing experiment that could be collected at any time…
He was fearful of so much… So scared he would be found; He didn’t want to be taken away from his family…
-----------------
Papyrus woke up groggy, not realizing when he fell asleep.
This time, he could see everything… Though he was still in a small amount of pain; It wasn’t too bad. In fact, he was feeling better…
Mr. Li was the first being he saw; Sitting by the bedside with his reading glasses on his snout and reading a certain book. Like always, he was wide awake, alert, and when he noticed Papyrus staring; Mr. Li’s eyes grew before a small smile appeared on his snout.
“Aye, yer up, Son…” He spoke gently. “How’re ya feelin’?”
“Ya say sorry again, and I’ll snap my fangs at’cha.” Mr. Li interrupted sternly, causing Papyrus to sink into himself.
“...but-”
SNAP--
Papyrus blinked as Mr. Li had quite literally snapped at him, holding eye contact with the other…
Only for them both to start laughing together.
“Papyrus… You did what ya could wit’ who ya are, Son.” Mr. Li explained. “If you could predict the future, it’d be better; Sure… But you wouldn’t push through your own walls like tha’. You’re young, and though you have certain experience; You gotta learn more.
Wit’ th’actions you took; Wit’ th’way you protected your siblin’s, I’m grateful ‘n utterly thankful ta have ya as my Boy… Ya have nothin’, n’ I mean nothin’... To apologize fer. Ya understand this ol’ Geezer?”
“don’ call yerself tha’, Mr. Li.” Papyrus gave a soft laugh. “ya ain’ tha’ old yet.”
He gave Papyrus a deadpan look before sighing. “I’m sorry I didn’t get home soona, Bud…” Mr. Li leaned over some, slumping. “Waterfall has a good safe spot n’ all… Bu’ all dangers still pop up annoyin’ly so…”
“ya still came, didn’cha?” Papyrus moved his hand over and held his adopted Fathers clawed hand. “I heard ya n’ th’guys… tha’ was all ya comin’, right?”
Mr. Li looked up and gave him a look of sorrow… “Nah, Son… Ya guys got in th’mist of a Gang war… I wished it was us, thou’...”
“oh… well, tha’ makes a lot more sense then, heh…” Papyrus gave a reassuring squeeze before relaxing back. “... don’t feel bad though, okay? I mean-”
“Papyrus.”
Knew that tone… Papyrus gave his adopted Father a small, sheepish glance…
“I’m Sorry.” Lizando said, firmly. “You and Sans are my children, though. Just like how Alphy is.
You’re not to be blamed… For None. Of. This… Do you understand me? No blaming yourself. I am a little annoyed that I didn't see when you were getting sick, but that’s to myself.
You did what you could in the situation you were put in. By some miracle, you and your siblings all survived… I wouldn’t know what I’d do if I lost my boys, again… What I would do if I lost all my children this time?…
Papyrus, forgive me… For not being a better father and being there more for you. Not being there for them. Especially… When you all needed me the most…
Forgive Me, Son.”
Papyrus felt his tears once again in his sockets… Wiping them away, he nodded but couldn’t help his small sobs come out again.
“wit’out ya, who’d know were Sans n’ I would be--” Papyrus hicced, holding onto his adopted fathers jacket. “ya helped us out when no one could--... thare ain’ nothin’ ta fergive, Dad-... there ain’t, m’still s’grateful-”
Lizando came close and wrapped him in his arms once more, pulling him to his neck to let him continue to let it out.
“Aww, Bud…” Mr. Li kissed Papyrus’ forehead, pulling him closer. “... These years bein’ underground will drive others crazy… bu’ so long as ya keep ta yer wits, like ya did earlier, i know ya n yer siblin’s will all b’betta then th’otha monstas here…
I love ya, I love Sans, n I love Alphy so, so dearly… m’so glad ta see ya all growin’ up s’well… n’ yer only gunna ta get stronga from here, Son… I believe in ya, in yer Sista, n in yer Brotha. Thank ya fer comin’ inta our lives…”
Mr. Li held Papyrus for a little bit longer, hiding his own tears from almost losing his family yet again…
After they were both settled, calm; Papyrus began eating whatever Undyne had made. Lizando had only seen his son eat like that back when he first brought him home, enjoying watching Papyrus’ appetite was back and in full.
Once stories of the past were tossed, plans talked about never holding secrets or withholding on how the other feels from sickness again; Lizando paused…
Before he smiled sweetly at his eldest son.
“How would ya feel… ‘bout trainin’ ta becomin’ a Sentry, Papyrus?”
Your voice was harsh, almost guttural as you now stared at your skeletal boyfriend, who now backed off with his claws up in surrender. Watched as he was obviously spooked by how sudden you bit at him, for something so innocent and normally; So sweet.
Instant regret filled your chest.
“I’m-... So sorry, Love.” You spoke. “I didn’t mean-”
“wha’ did i do?” He stopped you, his face curious and voice soft.
Yeah, what did he do? Asking yourself, sighing as you rubbed your face.
“Nothing, Bab-”
“no, wha’ did i do? was it somethin’ i said?” He gently pushed.
“...I-... Don’t like being called-... Soulmate.” You deflated, looking at him.
“oh... s’ tha’ all?” He perked up, blinking at you.
His reaction got you to smile. “Yeah... It just-... Brings back some memories from my past I’d rather keep there... Didn’t mean to snap at you, the word just kept popping up today, and... Guess I had enough of it. I shouldn’t have let myself attack you like that, I’m sorry, Sweetie.”
Russ waved you off easily, though gently took your hand in his, smiling warmly.
“if tha’s all i did, then i won’ say it again.” Leaning in, he gently nuzzled your forehead with his; Before he stopped and blinked at you. “...wait, have otha’s been callin’ ya Soulmate? theirs?... they know, yer mine... right?”
A soft giggle escaped as you held his hand, squeezing it as you leaned against his arm.
“No, Love... People were just talking about their own. I don’t act on it; I’ve been desperately trying to kick it out of my head-”
“n’ here i go n call ya mine...” He huffed with a playful pout, but wrapped you in his arm and dragged you into his lap.
“Well, I mean-... You were trying to be sweet, and here-... I snapped at you.” You sighed, nuzzling into him. “You’re my-... Sweetest dream. My final destination.”
“... ya say tha’ like yer gunna go n die on m’soon.” He leaned and gave you an odd look, questioning you with a smirk. “wha’re ya sayin’, Babe?”
“That you’re my light in the dark.” You bluntly said, before a smirk came on your own face. “I mean... If you want me to say-”
“nope.” He put his finger to your lips, knowing how dark you could get.
“nah, m’good... bu’ if yer nah m’Soulmate... wha’ do ya think we could be?”
Resting into his body, you thought... Thought for a while as you listened to his soul thrum so soft and gently under his jacket. Like a melody, it was soothing you to sleep.
“...You’re my Promise... To a better life. Together. Forever.”
The shock of how clearly he spoke made you pause as his magic filled the air. Could feel it making the hair on your arms bristle, goosebumps forming from the lingering hiss in your mind.
It was clear your bonely lover was upset at the term you had just tried to lovingly call him.
Staring, you saw how tense his shoulders were; How tight his fangs got. Could feel yourself shying away, trying to shrink down yourself when his glare came on you.
Seeing that? He sighed. Hard. As hard as he normally does trying to calm himself down from a physical fight...
Giving him some time to try and relax, no sooner the magic relaxed in the room…
“Why not?” The words couldn’t be stopped.
“...b’cause-... we ain’ those.”
“Soulmates?” Your head tilted gently. “But… It’s something silly to call the other, isn’t it?”
“...no.” Russ rubbed his face, bare bones scraping against the other. “... monsta culture, thare’s actually a thing ‘bout it. n’ i-...” He groaned before looking at you with his tired sockets. “...i had’un, Y/n. long b’fer ya…”
“Oh? You had one?” You gently repeated. “I-... Ain’t going to ask, but… I’m sorry for upsetting you. I-... Didn’t know.”
Russ moved slowly to put his clawed hand into yours, intertwining them as he pulled your hand up and pressed his fangs against your knuckles. After which, he sighed something of a relief as he just rubbed a part of your hand in circles with his thumb.
“nah… i jus’-” A look of regret could be seen before he looked you in the eyes. “at th’time, when it all collasped... it wasn’ perty. n’ now, i jus’ don’ believe in tha’ no more… s’a fantasy tha’ most will die for… n i ain’ inta dyin’ when i got someone who ain’ no fantasy, sittin’ right b’side me now. In real time… someone i can touch…”
Gently, ever so softly, he reached to caress your hair back. Looking at you as if you were untouchable; Sockets filling with softness just for you.
“... ta hold…”
His hand slid down to your shoulder, his other tightening your hand together with his, as he slid closer against you.
Before you knew it, his face was inching its way closer to yours, as you could feel the tint of his magical breath blow against your own skin.
“...ta kiss…” He smiled, watching as your face began to heat up.
As you tried to say a word, anything at all; He silenced you with his skeletal kiss against your own lips. The warmth of his magic surged through you, feeling as if he was indeed kissing and not pressing his fangs against you.
“...soulmates… ain’ fer m’.” He said, after a time. “...cause i got someone… betta than tha’.
TW tags; Blood, Gore, Violence, mentions of Magic Decay/Rot, mentions of possible Character Death/Dusting.
Please read at your own risk.
-----------------------------
“W-...” Sans sockets prickled once more as he watched his brother dart after the Canine. “W-WAIT! DON’T LEAVE ME!
PAPYRUS!!”
The next Papyrus knew, he stumbled and felt himself wrap instinctively around something in his arms. Looking to, he saw Alphy’s terrified stare back. Covered in blood and dust, body shaking, Papyrus gently brushed her face to clear away her eyes from both tears and blood. He noticed his own hand was shaking, making him think…
Was she actually shaking? Or was that his own body? What the hell just happened?...
His hazing wouldn’t clear up, his body felt weaker than before. Something similar as acid was crawling, inching its way out of his mouth; A choking cough erupted from him, the motion causing him to hear Alphy’s words of worry.
“m’fine... m’fine…” He choked with a smile. “...where’s Sans?”
“Don’t you remember?” Alphy asked, clinging to his shirt. When it was obvious Papyrus didn’t know, her eyes began to tear up more. “T-the Canine-... When y-you saw them ripping San’s fangs o-out, saw him h-holding me-... Y-you-...”
It was obvious then as she hiccuped into his shoulder. Papyrus got a flash of the past, the sudden anger he felt, and making his skull throb. Instead of holding his head, he cradled Alphy’s and hushed her… He left his brother behind? He left him behind?!
What kind of brother was he…
“...m’bey? he’s still there… m’gettin’ ya both-...ugh…” Papyrus grunted, forcing his body to move as pain kept spiking up his spine. Magic residue began to bubble past his fangs as he coughed. “...gunna get’cha both-... h-home… let’s find ‘em…”
He felt Alphy’s nod into him, her arm wrapping around his neck as her other laid limply. Despite his body wanting to drop, Papyrus forced himself to continue on. The magic residue idly dripped from his mouth and onto his sleeves. Once in a while, he would spit it out as he continued on.
One particular spat got onto an Echo, and he watched in horror as it practically melted the flower.
What the fuck was going on?... What the hell was happening to him?! Was this what one called ‘Magic Decay’? Was this why he couldn’t eat food like he normally could?...
He’ll figure that out later… Right now, only Sans and Alphy’s were the important ones. Until he could find his brother and get them both to safety, none of them were out of the woods yet.
...So far away… How far did that fucking Canine bring him out? How far did he chase the bastard for?... Did Papyrus even get what was coming to him? Why was it all blank?!
“P-...Papyrus--” Alphy’s tremulous voice came. “T-they-... S-Sans-... T-they have S-Sans!”
As Papyrus stopped in his tracks, he looked up. Through his muddled stare, he could see three blurry beings… And as he forced himself to focus, he saw Sans hanging by his shirt in one of their grips.
A snarl came to Papyrus’ fangs, the magic bubbling once more in his core, burning, flaring-
Only to cover his mouth, coughing into his hand and trying to keep whatever magic he had left to settle. He used way too much, he couldn’t lose anymore or risk dusting… But his brother, they had him. What could he do?...
Looking back at the three, Papyrus stood and could only stare numbly.
Papyrus could only watch. Their mouths were moving, but the voices were muffled like they were under water. Even Alphy’s was beginning to become nothing but mumbles… They looked like they were part of a Clan together, a matching emblem that the previous Canine he had just taken down wore.
...Disgusting.
He could feel Alphy cling to him harder, in which he tightened his grip on her. Papyrus took in the situation they were now in, being boxed in to where a large treerock formation was with no way to escape. Looking at the one who held Sans, he noticed they went closer to the cliff and hung Sans over it.
Whatever they were saying, whatever they were trying to do… Papyrus had to focus on the one talking. He had to, needed to…
“Kneel!” Was all he could hear.
He did so, setting Alphy’s down beside him. She stood so close, her arm still around his neck as her tail curled in fear. Papyrus cleared his throat, the magic dripping from his fangs. Without breaking eye contact to the one who was talking, he began to whisper to Alphy’s.
“...Al… i need you-... t’go find our safe spot… stay thare. don’ answer to no one until you see me or Li…”
Papyrus only glanced, to see if she understood. She seemed to be paralyzed, making him hold her closer to snap her out of it. Alphy’s seemed to, looking back at him and nodding. Looking to the three, he was going to cause a distraction…
Though he tried to quickly stand back up, he was swiftly knocked down completely by one of the Canines. Alphy’s had tried to leave, to flee; But she was taken by the one who had Sans and hung over the cliff as well.
Papyrus could only watch as Alphy’s was squirming, her good arm being held as Sans was still unconscious and his mouth dripping with blood. He tried to move, to get to them both; But something dug into his spine, cause a fracture as he screamed in pain.
“...please-” Papyrus coughed. “...p-please-... let th’kids go-... t-take me…” He pleaded, his claws digging into the dirt as he couldn’t help his tears.
“Oh, we’ll let them go…” The one above him said sickenly. “Right after you tell us what happened… Where did you hide our Alpha’s Dust, you ingrate?”
“...i-... i didn’-... i don’ know…” Papyrus groaned, tensing as they dug something more into his spine.
“Are we even sure he killed him?” The other asked boredly, crossing his arms. “He doesn’t look like he could take our Boss down, Fidge… Let alone a Frogget.”
“No one just has Dust and Blood on them by passing by, Bruuk.” Fidge growled, grabbing the back of Papyrus’ skull and forcing his face into the dirt. “You heard Iiget, he saw our Alpha fleeing from this-... This piece of trash! So, tell us you sonofabitch! Where did you leave him? To Rot? To suffer?? Where?!”
Papyrus coughed, the magic pooling where he was forced to stay down. Fidge kept pushing him into the ground, his bones he could just hear starting to give under the pressure. His skull is hurting worse, the pounding getting unbearable and the pressure isn’t helping at all!
“...p-please-...” He tries one more, despite it being hard to breath. “...i-... i can’t-... remember… jus’-... don’ hurt them… do wha’ y-ya want wit’ me… jus’ l-let them go-... please…”
Fidge huffed, roughly letting him go. “Oh, you don’t know how you got blood on you? You don’t know whose it is or why you smell of our Alpha? You don’t know?!” They roared, kicking Papyrus in the ribcage and into the rock-tree formation.
He not only felt his spine crack worse, but heard something snap as well. It issued him to painfully grunt, couldn’t even scream anymore as the pain practically consumed him.
“...Then, guess we don’t know about your family, either. What a fucking pity.” Fidge hissed with acid in his voice. “Grount! Drop--”
Before Fidge could get a single word out, Papyrus barely could make out what was happening. Weapons began to get thrown, magic were shooting, a small battle seemed to be taking place…
A distraction!
Despite the unbearable pain, Papyrus saw his chance. With one last push, he got himself up and rushed to the Canine who held Sans and Alphy’s. However, he miscalculated his steps, the moves, and got in a way of a special attack. Though it grazed him, hitting the massive Canine instead, they both were pushed off the cliff due to Papyrus.
All four fell, Alphy’s screaming and the Canine howling in pain. Papyrus reached out, grabbing both Alphy and Sans by their Souls and did one large tug, kicking the Canine in the face with the rest of his strength. Wrapping the two in his arms, Papyrus finally felt the magic within him burning his core unbearably now. Coughing, his body began to weaken as they all fell.
The sound of rushing water got louder and louder, roaring as it blocked out Alphy’s words as she tried to shake Papyrus awake. Perhaps trying to beg him to use his magic to port them all… Though he desperately wanted to, he only locked his arms around them both and kept their heads safe under his own chin.
It felt like they were falling forever to Papyrus. He watched as his vision was going, darkness consumed them all… But if it wasn’t for the massive Canines eyes glowing in the dark, he would have thought he was finally passing out.
A Little Longer… Stay strong, just a bit longer...
As they fell, the Canine was reaching to them all. Papyrus easily dodged, but with a price of the left side of his face slamming into the cliff’s edge.
Papyrus blacked out fully that time, feeling Alphy’s shake him awake and her voice screeching loudly for him to wake up…
Rest…
...He needed rest…
...Let him sleep, Al.
He’ll be up again before you know it, Lightningbug.
...He’ll be up…
...Later…
...Later…
Flashes of memory came, where he first saw his baby brother. In the Labs, how weak he was… How he saved him the first time, how he managed to rush them out from the Castle. Then memories during their hardships in Snowdin were, how he tried to keep them both safe… Warm… Protected...
Then Mr. Lizando’s face came… The Queens… The Guards… Baby Alphy’s when they were first brought to be taken by the General, how Sans and her had gotten along so quickly…
Then the images of Sans getting his fangs pulled, Alphy’s arm getting distorted and broken, and that Canines sinister grin in wanting to cause them both harm…
Nothing woke him up quicker than both of their screams, echoing in his skull as his sockets opened up to darkness. They were still falling in the Abyss, Alphy’s high pitched scream was all he could hear now as it mixed with the roaring of the river.
When he came to, the pain in his skull and body were unbearable, but he felt his ankle getting grabbed. Looking down, he watched as the Canine held him firm, practically cracking his bones. The impact Papyrus suffered gave him an idea, and he was quicker to put it into action.
With what rage was left, he could idly hear that Bastards voice once more in his skull. Thankfully it was getting blocked out this time as they were getting closer to the rushing waters below. With fury, Papyrus was quick to kick the Canines claws off. Quicker to put his feet on the creature's chest, and forced him downwards until he was fully vertical.
The Canine grabbed ahold of both of his legs, issuing in a large shock of pain as their claws dug into him once more. Papyrus held on, however; Using just a bit of magic to just see an outline of the rocks, the creature, and their surroundings.
Papyrus saw a flat top rock in the middle of the large rushing waters before his magic fully gave out completely. Lifting his leg up slightly, he dug the sharp part of the back of his heel into the Canines chest. It made him roar, the grip on Papyrus’ legs loosening enough that he took to jumping to the flat rock he last saw…
However, the Canine grabbed his sweater, issuing in Papyrus to get tugged back. He missed his jump, keeping the two closer in his arms as he was forcefully turned around.
The next he knew, he was grabbed by his shirt and punched in his skull. The force was so fierce, it ripped his shirt and sent them all flying farther from the Monster. Papyrus’ body went limp, he finally felt blood and magic coming from his mouth.
Landing in the icy waters, it seemed like the grave danger they were now in would become their grave… Papyrus could only listen as the rivers took them, Alphy’s scream was filling with water as she coughed and gasped. Sans… Was probably already dust, the current being so strong. No doubt he got crushed against the stones already...
“...i’m… so-... sorry…” Were Papyrus’ last words before his body completely went numb, his energy finally drained.
...At least… They wouldn’t be anyone's EXP…
...He could die like that…
“PAPYRUS!”
...What…
“PAPYRUS, YOU BIG FUCKING IDIOT! HELP US!”
...Sans?...
“Papyrus!! Where are you?!”
...Alphy’s?...
“Please, Pap! Help us, please!!”
Though both voices were gagging on water, it was true…
...They were both alive…
...Needing help…
...His Help...
Papyrus managed to reach up, hooking his claws into anything he could grab. Once he got a steady hold, he shakily pulled himself up as water, blood, and magic drained out of his mouth. He tried to use his magic to detect them both, but it only managed to make him stumble with the currents and get pulled down into the water worse than before.
Once more, he reached up and hooked his claws into something and pulled himself upwards. Panting, catching his breath as much as he could despite the pain and rough waters splashing against his battered body, he was desperately looking around. Trying to see if there was any sort of light he could find as a source to see, but nothing…
It was truly a Dark Abyss…
“...Sans-...” He croaked weakly. “...Alphy’s-...” He coughed. Taking in a large breath, he tried to call back louder.
“Sans-... Al-... Keep Talking!” He forced out loudly. “Keep Talking-- I’m Here! I’ll Get To You Both! Keep Yelling!”
“PAPYRUS!” Sans answered back, before it sounded like he went under. “PAP- PAP! HERE!”
“I’m here!” Alphy cried back. “B-But not for long--! Paps, please!”
Papyrus listened to their calls, how they yelled over the currents. The noises they made, he tried to inch his way down the wall, sounded as though one of them was close…
“Papyrus!” It was Alphy’s!
Reaching out his claws, blindly reaching for her; His other hand slipped as he was then dragged by the current once more.
Yanked and twirled by what seemed like a riptide, Papyrus was forced under as his foot was jabbed into a rock underneath, rendering him unable to surface.
He struggled, trying to yank his foot blindly as air escaped. The rest of his magic preserves were mixing dangerously with the toxins in the water. He couldn’t breathe, he couldn’t see…
Shit-... Shit, shit, shit! They were alive! They were calling to him!
But he couldn’t...
A flash of light made his sockets blink. It was like the sky was illuminating up above, though stayed for a bit longer than a few seconds. It wasn’t like the crystals or mushrooms that would glow, no… Though those would have given him enough light to see, this was going off randomly, and Papyrus was quick to use it as a means to undo himself from the jagged rocks. Swimming up to the surface, he grabbed onto something once more as he finally saw Al and Sans clinging in two different spots.
It was like slow motion as the light began to fade out once more, Papyrus was quick to aim for Sans. As they both reached for one another, the light faded out completely and Papyrus thought he missed his brother's hand.
Papyrus lost hope as he felt himself brush his claws barely against his brothers own finger tips…
A sudden grab to his wrist made him halt within the large waves. Though he was losing his senses, the light came back from no where other than Sans. And when each got a good look at the other's face… Papyrus hated what he saw, his brothers terror stricken face mixed with a snarl that showed his now missing fangs. Both were snapped out of it when they heard Alphy’s scream.
She was trying to hold onto a large boulder, trying to keep herself up as the waters tried to drag her down with their force.
Looking to her, Papyrus dug his claws once more to a sturdy side, the brothers locking their arms together. Sans was quick to get the unspoken words, quicker to take action as Papyrus used him as a means to reach for her. Sans was using what he could to try and steady himself, reaching with his free hand. Alphy’s couldn’t or risk getting swept in the current…
“ALPHY!” Sans yelled, spitting water back out. “LET GO OF THE BOULDER!”
“Are you nuts?!” She screeched back, pulling herself back up with her good arm. “Sans, no!! I’m scared!”
“Alphy!” Papyrus growled loudly. “I’m Right Here-- Let Go! We Got You! While I’m Still Living, I Won’t Let Shit Happen To You! Now Let Go, Trust Us!”
“Oh, yeah! Like you did shit earlier when--”
“AL--” Sans was dunked under once more before resurfacing. “REACH--... REACH, DAMMIT! IF YOU DON’T TRUST HIM, THEN ME!”
Alphy’s was clearly hesitating… As yet again Sans gave a quick shot of light using his magic pellets, the light quickly dimming again, Al let go.
When she did, Papyrus stretched out, helping Sans reach as they both connected their hands--
Only for her to slip.
“AAAH!” She screamed.
“NO-” Sans reached out, only for something spectacular to happen.
Papyrus watched with bated breath as Sans had grabbed Alphy’s by her Soul. Sans struggled, trying to pull her close, only to yank her up and out of the water and accidentally sent her flying to dry land. They both watched as she flew over their skulls, but couldn’t hear if she was even alright. Again, Sans let out another magical pellet to light their sights; Seeing Alphy’s wasn’t dusting.
Before that last bit of light faded, Papyrus pulled Sans close. He clawed his way towards Alphy’s, pushing his way past the currents despite his body’s protesting. He could feel his magic boiling in his bones, his body dusting wave after wave…
Papyrus knew then, he wouldn’t make it…
He managed to force himself past the limits and was now paying as he stumbled to the edge of land where Alphy’s was. Dragging Sans up and over the edge, Papyrus shoved him with one final push…
With that, Papyrus watched as Sans was now looking at him, reaching…
At least he could say he saved them…
He wasn’t very good-...
...At what he was made for, after all…
...He wasn’t even good at protecting his family…
But he’ll see them again… In the morning…
It was all just a terrifying nightmare, anyways.
---------
Sans watched as his brother was sinking, allowing himself to get carried by the rapid currents.
“NO!” Sans screamed, once more reaching out…
How?! How did he do that with Alphy’s?! He needed to do it with Papyrus, he had to or else he was--
“DON’T YOU DIE ON ME, YOU FUCKING BASTAAAAAAARD!” Sans screamed, his magic raging in his bones.
His focus was all on Papyrus, but as he went under, Sans almost lost him… Before he felt his brother's Soul barely pulse, the sound alone seemed to beat like a drill which was running low on life in his skull. It was eerie, but he focused… Once that pulse slowed to the point it practically stopped, Sans managed to find and grab his brother’s Soul within his magic.
Sans stood there despite his chest being torn by his magic raging within, despite getting torn up, by his own pain- The adrenaline ran through him though as he pulled Papyrus up and through the currents.
The waters were cruel, as if they were alive and keeping his brother to kill him off…
“You-... Fucking-... BIG-... LAZY--!!! MONGREL!!!” Sans yelled, yanking him successfully past the currents and up. “YOU ARE NOT GOING TO SLEEP-! IN THIS HELL HOLE-! OF A PUDDLE!”
With one last tug, holding his wrist, Sans was able to pull Papyrus towards himself. Though he flung his arms up and over his skull like a fisher finally getting a tough catch, Papyrus landed roughly and slid close by Alphy’s. Sans staggered backwards making him fall causing his ribcage to tense in pain halting his breath.
He laid there til the pain stopped; every breath he took hurt. Glancing to Al and Pap’s as both laid lifelessly. He had to make sure they were okay, he had to make sure they weren’t dusting…
Even so, what would happen if they were? It wasn’t like he was a Healer…
Shaking his skull, he forced himself up. Though it felt like it took him forever to, he managed to crawl towards them both. His bones begged in agony, his mouth tasting of copper, but he used a pellet once more to hold in his hand, the light glowing and showing both.
Alphy was breathing, but barely. Looking to Papyrus, Sans Soul sank.
Papyrus seemed to be completely still, magic seeping from his mouth and scratches on his head. As it pooled, Sans noticed that certain places were dusting, as well…
“No…” Sans whispered in despair, getting closer as he gripped his brother's arm. “Wake Up… P-... Papyrus-... Wake Up…” He tried to shake him, trying to use what strength he had left. “Y-you-... Lazy idiot--” He groaned, his sockets prickling with tears. “Don’t-... Don’t Leave Me Behind-... I Won’t Forgive You If You Do It Again… Do You Hear Me?! Wake Up-... Wake Up! PAPYRUS, FOR HEAVEN'S SAKES, WAKE UP!”
When Papyrus was motionless, Sans could only feel his tears pour out quicker. His brothers bones were dusting before his eyes, his own HoPe was draining…
A noise caught San’s attention, turning to notice a shadow not far from his brother was standing close.
“NO! STAY AWAY FROM US!”
He tried to summon another spark of magic pellets, but Sans watched as the Shadow figure seemed to disappear with the darkness… It surrounded them all, but as Sans heard the Being move; He felt his rage come back tenfold.
Forcing himself to stand, Sans summoned a large array of bones that surrounded all of them. The bones started off white, before dimming to grey, before mixing with a dark blue. That dark blue lit up their whole area, and he saw a tall figure who seemed to be wearing a broken mask with four eyes…
He couldn’t keep it up, however. Sans breathing got worse, coughing as he fell back to the ground on his knee. He tried to keep the barrier up, he wanted to protect… But looking at all three of them, how battered they all were…
...No…
He wasn’t going to let this fucker, or any others NEAR THEM!
“...Did I Stutter-” Sans coughed, his own magic residue beginning to drip from his mouth. “I-... Said… FUCK-... OFF!”
With a burst of his magic, he sent bones flying to the unknown Monster. None of his bones hit their marks, but he was pleased enough to know that he made the one run…
As his magic dimmed, so did his sight.
Before he knew it, Sans fell to his side. Completely knocked out and depleted of his Magic.
TW tags; Blood, Gore, mentions of child trafficking, child abuse, implied non-consent, and violence.
Please read at your own risk.
-----------------------------
A low growl was coming from the one Sans had apparently hit, the welt from the child in clear view until Papyrus realized what it was…
‘A Dog?...’ He thought, his grip on the two tightening. ‘When do they come out this far?’
“shit... hang on!” Papyrus said, keeping them close and trying to port…
...Only for it to fail.
“...P-...Papyrus?” Alphy’s voice quivered, both looking up at him in worry and fear.
“...n-... now, hold on…” He cursed in his mind, his legs continuously moving them back as he looked around before looking to the now large Canine who was snarling.
“Who th’FUCK tossed WHAT?!” The Canine roared. “Yer DEAD!”
“go, go-... jus’ go-!” Papyrus was quick to tear them both from his legs, pushing and shoving them to move, to run. “head back home, get home- fuck!!”
Papyrus once again grabbed both of them by the backs of their shirts, yanking them behind him as the Monster had fully jumped and almost crushed them in his landing, blocking their paths to escape.
The two elder monsters stared at the other, Papyrus’ eyes inverted to black with his pupils glowing harsh in his ember coloring as his own snarl came while the Canine looked at them all… His glare glided over Papyrus and down to the two smaller ones, before a devious smile came on his lips.
“...What do we have here?...” The Canine smiled eerily, sniffing the air before he began to chuckle darkly. “three kids in stripes?... aw, kiddos, y’know startin’ shit ya can’t finish means you’ll go to the Royalty for punishment… Riiiiiiight~?”
“... we didn’ mean no harm, was practicin’ on th’flowers…” Papyrus bit back, trying to sound strong, but it was so weak, his voice cracking that seasoned Monsters could hear it.
“Yeah, it’s not our fault you look like a hives ass!” Sans growled, bristling to the Canine. “Who the hell sleeps in a field of Red echos!? Of course, if--”
Quicker than lightning, Papyrus shoved him and Alphy’s both farther behind him, snapping at his younger brother to shut up. Once he looked back, the Canine had a spark in his eye that put Papyrus on edge.
“...Oh, feisty, are we?” They spoke with a sickening deep voice. “...How ‘bout I take ya somewhere instead… Teach ya all a fuckin’ lesson in not ta disrespect yer elders!”
“I’d like to see you try, ya overgrown hairball! I’ll take you on!” Sans growled, literally trying to shove his way in front of Papyrus.
“Sans, shut th’fuck up!” Papyrus growled under his breath as he watched Alphy’s cover Sans mouth with both hands. Looking back to the canine as he spoke again, “Look, buddy, no need fer tha-”
Papyrus was grabbed by the front of his sweater, issuing a yelp that cut off his sentence as he was pulled nasal ridge to Canine nose with the other monster. A dark and sinister snarl, as rage filled eyes peered down at Papyrus.
After a while he scoffed at the teen, the rage that had been there lessened to something akin to annoyance. “Damn, kids these days can’t even understand a lick o’ manners… fuckin’ useless bag o’magic reserves... ”
Papyrus started squirmed, taking his claws and trying to dig into the creatures flesh; but was stopped by the next bit of words from the Canine.
“Y’know… Th’ Ringers will teach ya lil’shit eaters some good manners...” He pointed to Sans with a sickening smile. “You, especially…”
“no-!” Papyrus growled, his eyes now filling with his own anger. “don’t you fucking dare-”
“Or what? Piss off before I dust you.” The canine tossed Papyrus to the side and out of his way. “Yer so fuckin’ weak, it’d be too easy ta kill ya… Don’t worry, Kid… I’ll take these burdens off yer claws instead… C’mere, Kids.” Moving towards Sans and Alphys as if he was doing Papyrus a favor.
Sans stood in front of Alphy’s, his own rage in his eyelights as he tried to protect his sister. “What makes you think we’ll go with you, asshole?! Don’t you know who we are!? How ignorant of you to--”
The Canine began to laugh hard and heartily, interrupting Sans from his triad of words, just as Papyrus was once again seeing black spots in his vision. His focus became hazy yet again as he struggled getting up onto his feet.
“You are the Adoptee of a fucking Guardsman! Of Course, your Royal Highness,” the Canine said mocklingly, “oh how could one fucking forget who YOU are?...” The canine suddenly grabbed them both in his massive clawed hands, amusement crossing his features as they tried to escape. “Ringers would pay a hearty price for such a kid like you…,” his eyes glancing over to Alphys with a sickening and disturbing look, “While she look’s like she'd make a wonderful Toy if taught right…”
Alphy let a small shriek out as she was squeezed tighter, only to gain a breath as the canine eased up. “Oh, she squeaks… That’s perfect.” he purred as he once again squeezed her a bit tighter hoping to hear that pleasant squeak sound, desperately wanting to hear again.
Papyrus was dazed, but trying his hardest to shake off whatever was plaguing him. He could only stare as his siblings were in the hands of the Beast… His words were mumbled, but the word ‘Ringer’ came loud and clear…
Instantly, Papyrus could feel himself boil with rage, with disgust, with a power he hasn’t felt since That Time… In the back of his skull, he could hear His Voice… Encouraging…
His siblings calling for help, their cries of his names, were fading…
All the while His Voice started Drowning him.
Suddenly,
Papyrus was Back
Back In Hell
“That’s A Good Boy. Thrive In That Feeling…”
“It Feels Wonderful, Doesn’t It?...”
“Oh, Yes… The Burst Of LV.
Don’t Worry, It Only Hurts For The First Couple Of Times.”
Sans watched in hidden horror as he kept trying to use any tactic he could to get free from the claws which wrapped around him and Alphy. His hands still had no claws, so he couldn’t scratch. He could feel the Beast squeezing his ribcage, almost cracking it before he went and chomped down on the flesh, finally grateful his fangs were being put to use.
...But to a price, he saw.
“GRAWWWH!! You fuckin’ lil’ BASTARD!” The Canine roared, taking Sans and slamming him down on the ground, issuing a fracture as he was dazed. “Don’t fuckin’ bite or next time I might dust ya!”
“S-stop! Leave him alone!” Alphy screamed, trying all her might to use her own dull claws to dig into his flesh to no avail, turning to try and bashing on his hand with her fists, tears streaming down her face.
“Ah, shuddup, Kid.” The Canine said, before apparently an idea came to them.
He grounded Sans under his foot to keep him in place, as he looked at Alphy with his full attention. “Ya know… Toys don’t move their arms… Think I’ll go ahead and just-” He sickeningly smiled as he grabbed Alphy’s arm, her tear soaked face shocked…
Her scream ruptured through the whole Waterfall as he had simply twisted her arm with ease, continuing until her arm turned and twisted in an unnatural way.
“There…” he cooed, “now th’other one… I should still get a good deal outta you, especially…” The Canine said, taking her other arm with amusement, pulling it out-
And then howled in pain yet again! Looking downward as he felt-
“You--” He snarled at Sans, who had sunk his teeth once more into the flesh of the Beast. This time in his foot. “Oh-... Hohoho… Alright, let's see how much fight you have after I rip them fangs out...” He stomped once more on Sans, making him gasp and his ribcage cracked under his pressure, before quickly taking a fang and yanking it out.
Sans let out a loud scream, his sockets wide now in horror as he watched his fang turn to dust right before him, squirming to stay away as the Canines hand came back and forcefully grabbed another one.
“...Two…” Another harsh yank, another scream-
“Three- GHK!”
The Canine stumbled backwards, Sans watched as something warm decorated his face. Lifting his head, trying to see what was going on, Sans froze in utter terror...
There was his older Brother; Papyrus, his claws seemed longer and now soaked in blood and dust as he practically staggered almost twitchingly. But that wasn’t what put the horror on his younger brother's face, no…
The face Papyrus was making was absolutely terrifying; Mixed with his sockets wide, his fangs stretched into a large smile, his eyelights almost spun like multiple discs within. They were thin, but the speed made it look like he was looking everywhere at once, and when he looked at Sans… He swore, for a split moment, his own brother would kill him.
Tears streamed down the young Monsters face as his older sibling walked closer and closer… Sans rib cage was cracked in a way that as he took a breath in, his mouth was covered in copper. A pained noise came from him, issuing his sockets to close tight.
He could hear his brothers lazy shuffle come, and for once dreaded him coming near.
‘It’s a nightmare!’ Sans thought, even if the pain was far too real for his liking. ‘It’s a nightmare, a nightmare! Just open your sockets, open your eyes, open your eyes, dammit! This isn’t real!’ The noise of the steps got louder and louder… Until they stopped.
Right beside him, Sans could practically smell the wave of copper and his brother's presence right next to him. Sans shook, but tried to lay still… If he moved, he feared that would be the last move he’d make. He doesn’t even know if he could move his arms since the pain of his torso was practically killing him.
The next noise he heard was Alphy’s terrified shrill with the Canines pained howl.
Sans sockets opened quickly as he tried to turn his head to her. What he saw made him gape…
Papyrus had somehow moved without a noise; He moved and tore off the Canines arm that held Alphy seemingly with no issue at all! It even looked like a clean cut.
Keeping a hold of the dusting arm; he tore into it until Alphy’s was completely free of the offending Canines claws. Scooping her out gently, keeping her close to his chest as she curled up and began to cry into him. Her little body covered in blood, shaking from the trauma of it all. Papyrus just as equally; if not more so; covered in blood. Looking down on the Canine with the intent to kill in his eyelights.
“...You… Deserve… N O… M E R C Y…”
His voice sounding eerie, something that-
Sans wasn’t sure whose voice that was, but he stared as his brother went after the Canine, who at this point was trying to flee.
“W-...” Sans sockets prickled once more as he watched his brother dart after the Canine. “W-WAIT! DON’T LEAVE ME!
PAPYRUS!!”
To Be Continued...
Writers Notes;
I want to do a special shoutout to my wonderful friend @crowsworks for helping me out MAJORLY making it a lot more creepy and more intimidating that it was originally!!! She added in the spice I couldn’t pinpoint what was missing, helping editing it to where it flowed much better than how it did!
So to her; I owe a ton because without some help, I wouldn’t have had the drive to push for this to be posted! Thank you so much, Crow!!!
If you guys haven’t yet; Go read her stuff on Ao3!
How long has it been, he thought… How long since he and Sans came here? Since he escaped that hell hole that he knew would have been both their graves? Where was it? How long was he aimlessly walking for? It began to blur the more Papyrus tried to think…
...Stars, it was getting difficult for him to remember anything...
“Papy!” Came Sans voice, jolting Papyrus out of his thoughts.
“oh... heya, bro.” Papyrus replied, rubbing his younger brothers skull with a relaxed smile. “shit, don’ scare me, thought ya were’a Mugga, heh… come ta steal m’Soul n’ all m’bones!”
Sans only huffed, batting his brothers hand away as he put his hands on his hips. “Quit being weird, Pap! It’s training day! You promised to take Al and I out to Waterfall! What’s taking so long!?”
Geez, his bossy little brother… How did he get like that?
“was waitin’ on yer slow butt. did’ja two eat?” Papyrus stretched, his joints letting out quiet hisses as he yawned.
“We’ve been waiting on YOU to eat!” Sans retorted with a huff. “Did YOU?”
Papyrus folded his arms behind his head, lounging on the sofa as he closed his sockets, smirk still on his face.
“yup.”
“Liar!” Alphy’s came out of nowhere, slamming a plate of leftovers on his chest. “You have to eat, Papy! Or else you won’t be able to teach us… We want to know all we can before Dad gets back!”
Papyrus left out an ‘Oof’, only to glance at the plate wearily… His appetite had driven down to the ground recently, he couldn’t even stand to smell the stuff. But looking at his siblings faces, Sans huffing and irritable expression mixed with Alphy’s worried yet stern glare, he sighed before sitting up.
“...allright, allright… i’ll eat on th’way there, how’s tha’ sound ta ya both?” He said tiredly with a snrk, watching them both quickly bolt to grab their training gears.
“About time! Let’s go, let’s go!!” Sans practically yelled.
“Dang it, Sans! Stop! We gotta wait for Pap!” Alphy said, bolting out and holding Sans back by his clothing and weapon, creating a bickering between the two.
Sans excitement never ceased to amaze Papyrus…
Getting up, he had spots dotting his view, but chose to quickly force a bite down of the food. Though the magic seemed to fizzle normally, he almost couldn’t handle the sensation that streamed down his bones. Hiding a gag with a cough, he went and put his shoes on quick enough, simply slipping the things on and grabbing his sweatshirt.
He had placed the plate down, but took a napkin and wrapped the rest of the food up in his palm, putting it in his pocket for later. “Sans, Al, y’guys get’cha selves Seasalt Tea b’fer headin’ out?”
“Eeeeew! NO! I hate that shit!” Sans growled, finally able to get Alphy off his shoulders.
“It is not that bad, Sans.” Alphy deadpanned. “...i mean… It’s gross, but-”
“I know, i know…” Papyrus shook his head in amusement. “bu’ y’know why we need it. get yer boney butt back in thare n’ get ya n’ yer sis a couple o’bottles. er else… i’ll jus’ tell Mr. Li ya’d rather get’cha self killed early n’ not learn how ta heal yerself. he’d go on n’ on on’a rant ‘bout tha’, y’know...”
Sans sockets went wide before he puffed his cheeks out angrily, only to quickly run back into the house as Papyrus took one last bite of what he could handle before wiping his phalanges on his pants. He stood by the door, waiting for the kids to come barreling back out as they always did, and locked the door behind them.
Pocketing the keys, they all were off to Waterfall.
“Why do we gotta walk, Pap? Can’t we port, like you normally do?” Alphy said, looking back.
“ya kids have so much energy… plus, consider it part o’yer trainin’. wha’ does yer Dad say all th’time, Al?” Papyrus said easily, hiding his shaking hands in his pockets.
“Can’t rely on you guys for everythiiiiiiing.” Al groaned, slumping before turning around and walking backwards. “But who else has that power?! It’s so cool, Papy!”
“I bet i have it!” Sans said almost too proudly. “I bet I have more powers than Pap!”
“Ew, the only power you’ll have is chomping someone in half, Sans! What with them massive chompers!” Alphy teased, stretching her gums to show her own before laughing as he scowled at her.
“shhh, keep yer voices down, ya dorks.” Papyrus warned with a smile. “we’re gettin’ outta th’safe zone… r’memba, quiet is key, so watch each otha’s backs like we taught ya.”
When they finally got to the Safe-zone of Waterfall, Papyrus had to sit on the ground to catch his senses. Even now, his mind was hazing a bit, but… He simply took out the remaining food and began to try and shove some of it down since his siblings pointed it out. Papyrus blamed he didn’t want people seeing him eat, because that would make him an ‘Easy Target.’
He saw the doubt in their eyes, seeing how he’s done it plenty of times before… But he reminded them that they were also with Lizando and he isn’t as young as he used to be. With that excuse, they dropped it…
As they warmed up how Lizando showed them, Papyrus tried to eat all he could of the food, even if he was getting close to vomiting it all back up. Chasing the thought of that away, he watched them both with a certain emotion swelling in his chest of seeing his baby siblings being so old now…
...Either with Pride or he was really close to vomiting now was hard to figure out…
Pocketing the empty napkin, he swallowed the final pieces and washed it with a swig of Seasalt tea, his bones tense as the magic coursed through him. Damn, he doesn’t understand what’s been going on recently, knowing what he’s been eating should be a lot better than what he used to get…
Ugh, he’d really have to find fresher ingredients next time, blaming it on spoiled magic.
After watching the two a bit more, making sure he could see correctly, Papyrus got up and walked over to start their training.
“allright.” He said, accidentally startling Alphy as she left out a squeak. “...rule numba one, Al?” Chuckling with a brow raised, she slowly turned to face him.
“...Uhm… Always be ready for an attack?...” She murmured.
“yeah, n’ don’ squeak like’a chewtoy. ya want all th’dogs o’Snowdin comin’ afta ya?”
“N-...No…”
“good, strike next time, allright? cause who knows, it might not be me.” Papyrus said, patting her head.
“But… I don’t wanna hurt-”
“How are you going to know it’s him exactly next time someone is standing behind you?” Sans deadpanned. “Best to strike than someone backstabbing you, Al!”
“S-shut up! What if it’s someone scared then, huh?!” Alphy retorted. “What if it’s an innocent!?”
Sans took his wooden stick and took a strike at her. “Innocent my ass, if they pop up behind you; it’s only to kill! Until we get a hold of our abilities, these lousy things are only good for one thing! What does Li say!?”
“Gah-! Sans, quit it!” Alphy took to fighting back against Sans, their sticks clashing at every blow.
“What does he say?!” Sans growled more, getting harsher with his swinging and able to hit Alphys on her knee.
“Ouch! You-!!” Alphy boiled with rage, going after Sans. “Dad says to always anticipate the worst!”
Papyrus stood, watching the two chase each other a bit more… Before he finally told them to come back. He chuckled as he saw Sans now had a few markings on his bone cheeks from the slaps of Alphy’s weapon, while her arms and knees held welts from Sans.
“allright... so, were gunna practice magic t’day.” Papyrus said, watching the excitement bubble in their eyes. “bu’, we’re startin’ slow. y’guys know how ta form pellets from last trainin’… do a couple.”
The two formed their own pellet bullets, though he noticed Alphy’s had a bit of difficulty forming hers.
“r’lax, think ‘bout a small ray’o’light, n’... thare ya guys go. good.” Papyrus praised, nodding as they both now fully formed two each. “now, y’guys recall how ta make ‘em hurt?”
“Of course!” Sans said, his sharp smile wide. “You have to feel Angry!”
“No, you have to feel threatened!” Alphy corrected.
Before either of them could argue, Papyrus coughed into his hand. “y’guys are on th’right track… bu’, wha’s th’ strongest emotion tha’ can cause’a Monsta damage?”
“...Uhm… Disgust?” Alphy tilted her head.
“No, idiot! Hatred!” Sans rolled his eyelights.
Papyrus snrked. “right, hatred. bu’ Al, disgust is one o’hatreds many different forms. howeva, ya can even be filled wit’ hate n’ it still won’ cause any effect… why is tha’?”
“Oh! Because one needs the intent to harm!” Alphy’s eyes went wide, Sans pouted at not being able to answer first.
“correct. ya gotta both hate n’ wanna harm someone in orda ta do damage… bu’ tha’s fer’a stronger effect. so long as ya guys have jus’ th’intent ta harm, any negative emotion b’hind it will be’a boost.”
Papyrus took a moment to look around before landing his sights on a couple of red echo flowers. With a grin, it would be the perfect target for the two since they’re fully made of negativity, the words alone would get a small monster absolutely furious.
“see th’Echos ova thare?” Papyrus pointed to the small bundle of red that was by a tree. “get closer n’ shoot at ‘em. think o’th most disgustin’ thing ya can, or somethin’ ya hate th’most, n’ try ta rip th’Echo’s flower petals wit’ th’intent ta harm it.”
The two looked over and began to get closer, only to halt at the same time. Apparently the two looked at one another with challenging smiles, perhaps whispering bets that they picked up the habit of doing, to probably see who gets the other's treats for the next week.
Papyrus watched as Alphy’s went first, her first pellet coming and just grazing a petal that earned her a few curse words from the Flower itself.
“s’allright, Al. use them words ta fuel yer intent.” Papyrus encouraged.
Alphy nodded, taking her other pellet, carefully aiming… And getting the Echo smack dab in the middle, completely shutting it up.
“I DID IT!” She screeched in glee, jumping.
“Show off! Move over!” Sans scowled at her, quick to take her spot and aim for another flower… Before something else caught his eye.
Before Papyrus could tell what, Sans went and shot his pellet out over the bundle of red Echo’s, only for a sudden deep, guttural growl to come out that shocked all three of them.
“Sans, th’hell did’ja aim for!?” Papyrus quickly got to the two, grabbing them by the back of their shirts and keeping them close, getting ready to take a quick port.
“I-... I-I thought it was a hive!” Sans stuttered, trying to get his balance as Alphy clung to Papyrus’ pant leg.
“even if it was, ya fuckin’ aim wha’ i tell ya ta aim at! undastand?!” Papyrus began to drag them both back as his sockets grew, seeing what Sans aimed to start moving.
A low growl was coming from the large forming Creature, the welt from the child in clear view until Papyrus realized what it was…
A Story of a young Monster that was created by Greed and Hunger for Power.
...But Refused to Bend & Lose To Cruelty That It Ruled By...
It all started when Monsters were thrown and tossed into their new World of Hell, due to losing the War with Humans and Mages alike.
As Life Underground got used to how their new World was coming, the first Homeground coming to a finish after many months of chaos and havoc, there came a Mysterious Monster who was more than odd.
The Monster was made of Bone, had an image of Human Anatomy, and the dark color of Green like a forest in the dim moonlight. Despite the suspicions, able to deter any information of himself of where he may have come from, able to talk in a strange language of what others would call ‘Other Worldly’ as his main language, he proved himself worthy of not only being that of a Being of Pure Magic; But becoming that of Royalty Aid for the Scientist.
This Monster had deemed himself; W. D. Gaster.
Though Gaster was not able to completely pass by one Monsters ingenious, who called himself Dr. River, he was able to pass all the others and become that of a Professor, a Second hand in command.
The Professor didn’t enjoy this, no… His greed and hunger for power carved him to work hours within the weeks, months, and slowly within the Years to try and best this Monster. Though, no matter what the Professor did, it had failed…
Until he got the brilliant idea to not just sit and wait for a Soul to come; But to Create them, instead...
It took years of trying; Putting more and more of his own Magic in along with many others, the Professor had gone practically Insane to create Life. The issue was though, within the years of research and constantly trying, he had the conclusion…
Why Not Create A Life To Help Him Achieve His Glory?...
The Glory of taking over the Royal Scientist, and then; The whole Kingdom.
With the information at his disposal, he set forth to creating a Souling of a dull white. For a True child to form, all Monsters knew you had to have these components;
Love, Hope, Compassion
But The Professor was able to gather something similar in secret from those who fell into their World through all the years... And in secret, he had gained similar ingredients from the bodies;
Fascination, Dream, Apprehension
Success followed as these essences formed, having a Young Monster grow within secrecy, while also growing faster than normal Soulings of the Monster community once fully formed. The Professor watched as his experiment was showing signs of being more intelligent than those of his age, quickly becoming talented of who he was fated to become.
Professor Gaster had HoPe rising due to the positive outlook he was seeing in such a quick time, needing what the Creature could do to gain what the Insane Professor had deemed his from years ago. With this, he had begun to teach him how to do a few simple tasks around the Labs, but saw the Creature was quickly picking up things even he was doing…
Dials, mixing certain vials, calculating, and even going to the point of processing the right outcomes came swiftly to this Young Being...
Due to being a creation of Science, the Insane Professor was aiming for an instrument of Destruction, not what he was seeing, and didn't desire a ‘Helper’...
When the time came to take the Creature out to test his killing ability, they started out strongly. Incredible powers the Creature held within his Soul as he fought stronger ones, paired with a smart ability to Think, To Act, To Fight.
Though the Creature had a fault, which royally annoyed the Professor...
Many Monsters that were in front of The Young Monster were older to the point they were slowly dusting, Souls barely holding on by mere threads of DT that put them in agonizing pain. Those, he quickly figured killing them quickly and as painlessly as he could.
When paired with younger ones... He wouldn’t. Couldn’t...
Looking at the eyes of those who were innocent before him; How fearful, how they trembled before both him and who he called ‘Father’, the Young Monster felt something within.
Yes… What he felt was Mercy.
To give Mercy would be a good ordeal, to give them freedom of this place, but their eyes... Their eyes showed so much Spark, a Spark he never seen before that was missing from the older ones who he easily gave peace to.
The Young Monster couldn’t force himself to do a single thing to these others... Couldn’t give them Mercy, his ability slowly making his Soul wrench in pain.
But in a world of Kill Or Be Killed...
...That Would Kill Him.
In the end, the Young Monster refused for the younger ones. The Professor thought nothing much of this at first... Until it became a growing habit.
After much planning, time quickly passing by that he couldn’t give much of, the Professor made a hasty decision. To create a fake creature, using it as a Kin to the Younger Monster... He used manipulation to give HoPe that if he was ‘Good’, that he ‘Passed’ his tests, he would in turn give the Young Monster all he desired...
A Family.
What the Insane Professor didn’t expect was that the Fake Creature had begun to take a true form thanks to a Certain Being...
For months, the Professor didn’t realize the mistake, but the Young Monster quickly took notice…
At first, the Young Monster never had the courage to walk out of his cell before, the room he was always forced to stay in being his prison yet safe place. It was the place where he could be him, enjoy what little freedom he had before the Professor came to collect.
That was, until something started to call to him… For him.
Or rather for anything, anyone.
Curiosity followed soon after, the Young Monster gaining courage the more something tugged with no signs of stopping.
When the Young Monster finally had enough courage to sneak out, he used the darkness to his advantage as trained, following the sound? No, feeling? The Young Monster couldn’t place his fingers on it, but he was led to the Experimentation Room.
There within, was a smaller creature; Who looked like him…
A Small Skeleton Monster; No bigger than his chest; Curled and wrapped with its own limbs.
When the small Creature looked from the tube, when pure white eye lights glanced at the Young Monster; It Smiled…
The Tugging the Young Monster felt soon after, was the Bond as it only strengthened as the child reached for him, before slowly going back to sleep.
In that moment…
The Young Monster felt as if the Bond had almost broken instantly as the reading on the machines began to go, the young Soul slowly fading before him.
Quickly, the Young Monster rushed to view the unreadable status of the Child. Desperate, he skimmed through it all quickly, noticing certain levels were downas he blindlessly pressed all he could to get them to stabilize the Child.
Trial and error, the Young Monster was able to finally help the Child, who in his very being; Knew that he was his Brother…
He had one, a younger Sibling…
Nearby on a work table laid papers… On one in bold letters held the name; Sans.
There was another file, which he took and looked through, only to slowly deflate before outright turning horror stricken at the information he found…
