The Choice
With the sobs slowly beginning to subside, Chara was more than happy to lean against your body, slumped and exhausted. A few more whispered fears mingled in the silence of the room, before they finally closed their eyes and gave themselves up to the bliss of unconsciousness. A heavy sigh slips its way between your lips, hanging in the air. You glance down at Chara’s face, and finally register the fact that the tar that had oozed from their body and soul left black, sticky marks on their skin.
You rub your eyes, forming the intent to get up to clean the goo from their face. You still sit there for a few silent minutes, just listening to your rapid heartbeat and feeling the aches, pains and scratches of your body. Another sigh. You force yourself get up.
Carting Chara to the bed, you are careful not to disturb them as you nestle their body into the sheets. After that was done, you rummage through the pack still at the foot of the bed, and produce a shambled kit. You open it, various medical supplies nearly spilling from it. You pluck the cloth out of its depths, before closing the box and placing it back in the pack. You quietly shuffle to the bathroom a few doors down from you. Wetting the cloth, you return to the room.
You hum the familiar tune, not wishing to wake Chara up and also hoping to calm your still rapid heartbeat. The cloth easily cleans the tar off their face, producing the pale, ruddy-cheeked child you knew. Tossing the cloth on top of the bag, you stare at their face.
Will we be able to stay here?
Instant panic fills you as you hear Toriel call out your names from downstairs. The frantic feeling slows as she continues on, asking if you or Chara were coming down for lunch. The panic returns as you hear Toriel start to ascend the steps.
You quickly rummage through your pack again, producing a pen and sticky-note paper you tried to keep at hand for times when Chara wasn’t around. You quickly scribble down a note to Toriel, explaining you and Chara probably weren’t coming down to eat. Chara was… too sick. You would take care of her.
You stick the paper onto the door, and close it just as Toriel reaches the upper floor. You hear the creaks of her footsteps reach the door you were just behind, “Oh, dear children. I am sorry to hear that. I suppose our tour through the town will have to wait until tomorrow.” The slight tinge of disappointment disappears as Toriel heads back down the stairs. The low murmurs of her and the children pick up a few minutes afterwards.
You sigh, glad Toriel hadn’t tried to press the issue or enter the room. Leaning your head against the wooden door, your eyes lock onto Chara’s form once again.
I really do want to try!
You leave the doorframe, only to find yourself sitting on the floor, leaning against the bedpost. Chara’s pleas replay in your mind, your own determination flowing strong in response. But... What were you going to do? How could you make yourselves happy here?
You had to make the choice.
The choice, of course, was telling them about Chara. But that was a conversation you never, ever wanted to get into- it was too… it was just too much like what Chara was fearing. You didn’t want the monsters to hate you any more than Chara seemed to think.
How would they react knowing what Chara sometimes did? How Chara felt? Chara was no doubt everything the monsters feared about humans. They were cruel at times, willing to commit violence, sometimes even happy to be violent. Heck, you had a scar on your neck that proved Chara could nearly kill a person. They were unstable at times. They were dangerous.
This town has seen too much violence already. Toriel’s words whisper in your ear, a condemning tone. You couldn't tell them about Chara. You couldn't risk your chances of being able to stay here; everything else was just so perfect. It was so different and kind and beautiful, and the small glimpses of serenity you had the past day and a half, you would give anything to keep. Your whole presence just felt happy here. You couldn't give that up, now could you? You wouldn't be able to risk the slight chance that it was, confessing about that Chara. What if the monsters kicked you out?
What were you to do? What were you to do?
You had to hide Chara. Or that part Chara. The Chara that was harmful, hurtful and cruel. The Chara that you knew; that onlyyou could know. If you all wanted to be happy here, some secrets needed to be kept. You hoped Chara would agree to keep it secret. Not like their confirmation mattered- keeping it a secret all relied on what they did when their episodes happened. They were basically a different person at that point. Hopefully you'd never be in a position where someone would see- Asriel.
Asriel had seen that.
Oh no, what were you going to do about Asriel?
You rest your head against the bed, slumping further to the floor. Maybe all was for naught. Perhaps Asriel was already spinning a tale of horror. Chara had looked a monster. No one would ever want you two now. Heck if you were being truthful even you didn’t want-
“Frisk?” Asriel’s quiet voice spoke to you from beyond the door, “Frisk, can I come in now?” His voice is tinged with fear, and you bolt upright. Why was he here? Did he wish to talk… talk about what happened? You couldn’t hear evidence of an enraged Toriel or Asgore, so it must be for some reason like that. A surge of hope flung into your soul as you bound up to head to the door.
Perhaps you could reason with Asriel, and then everything would work out fine. You all could live here happily. It would be okay. You were determined to do anything to make sure it was okay.
You open the door to find Asriel, small and fragile, staring up at you. He was scrunched, eyes a little shadowed, and seemed to be a little shaky as he regarded you.
“Is- Is Chara?” He whispers, you step aside a bit to show Chara sleeping on the bed. He visibly relaxes, “Can I come in?” You step more to the side, allowing him through. You leave the door open, and return to sitting on the floor beside the bed. Asriel joins you, albeit hesitantly. His eyes constantly look up to regard Chara, peacefully on the bed. He bends down, turning his face to look at you before blanching.
Your head tilts questioningly. He points to his face, finger shaking a bit.
“You- you have... Uh… It on your face.” He slumps onto the floor. Curious, your hand rises to your cheek. You bring it back, to see the sticky tar marring your skin. You make a small grunting noise, reaching over to grab the cloth you had cleaned Chara’s face with. You rub your face aggressively, before turning to Asriel. You point to your face.
“Uh… There’s a little…” He points to his chin. You wipe again. He shakes his head. You do it again. He sighs a no, before slowly, his paw reaches out, grabbing the cloth, “H-here…” He wipes your chin, before handing back the cloth awkwardly. You toss it back on the bag, before settling back into your position earlier.
You sit in silence for a few minutes, wondering how to start talking about what happened to such a small, scared little boy. Asriel, however, is the first one to disturb the silence.
“What’s wrong with Chara?” Grabbing the paper and sticky pad you had used to write the note to Toriel with, you begin to explain. Hopefully you could make Asriel understand. Hopefully you could persuade Asriel to let you stay.
Chara had a rough childhood, Asriel. They didn’t have nice, kind parents like yours. In fact, I doubt they even know their parents. The things that happened to them weren’t very nice things. It made them become something- You hesitate for a few moments, trying to think of the right word to jot down. Nothing fitting comes to mind, -something weird. That weirdness sometimes comes out in a bad way at times.
“... Does it hurt them?”
Not physically, no.
“Do… do they hurt others?” The question is small, yet powerful.
You hesitate to answer, before writing a curt. Yes.
“O- oh.”
But so far, it’s only been me. It’s the only thing I’ve found that gets them out of that state.
“Oh.”
Please understand Asriel, they truly don’t want to hurt you. Chara likes you!
“Well... they were fun before that happened.” Asriel comments, “But… that Chara was… I mean…” His voice falters.
Chara isn’t like that all the time, Asriel. Truly. So please, don’t hate them too much. It’s hard, living with what they had to go through. It’s like… an illness of the soul.
“Living without a mom or dad does seem rather hard.” Asriel manages to conclude.
Yes. It has been rather hard. But we both really like it here Asriel. Hopefully you don't think too ill of us now. I’d like to continue staying here, if it's okay.
“No… I- I don't think… I would like for both of you to stay too.” He adds sheepishly, “It was really fun walking with you. And playing with Chara had also been great!” However his face falls into a conflicted expression, “Until today.”
Asriel, I promise Chara won't be like that forever. I wish I could tell you I know when it happens, and when it doesn't, but I am afraid I can't… Just know that as long as I get there, nothing bad will happen to anyone.
“Chara even went to you to tell you it was happening, huh? They left the play group so suddenly… I guess I know why now.”
Asriel, I am really sorry you had to see Chara like that. But just know that they do care about you. Do you feel any differently about them now? I understand if you do.
Asriel sighs, curling up into himself. He leans on your other arm however, and that gives you a bit of hope, “I don't know… Chara was really scary… but my mom can get scary too. Especially when she gets angry.”
I bet your mother is a real bear when she gets mad. Asriel laughs a bit.
“My mama isn't a bear, Frisk. You're so silly.” He sighs again, looking towards the other wall for a few seconds of silence, “You’ll always be there if Chara acts like that? You won't let them harm anyone?” Asriel asks, his one hand slightly gripping your arm. With a gentle care, you place your other hand over his. You manage to scribble out a reply, balancing the paper on your thigh.
I promise you Asriel. For both you and Chara's sake, I will not let them harm anyone.
“But what about you? You said you have to let them harm you in order to… to get the blackness to leave.”
Well, yes. I guess everyone but myself.
“That doesn't seem fair. Is there really no other way?”
No. Because the only way is to soothe them, and I can't do that if I’m not beside them. And they hurt anyone who gets too close in that state.
Asriel hums.
It’s okay, Asriel. I’ve done this for years. I know what I’m doing.
“Well… if you say so, Frisk.” Asriel retorts. You two descend into further silence, but it eats at you.
Asriel, are you really okay with this? What you saw was indeed rather shocking- Asriel pauses your furious writing hand with his own.
“I feel better about it now Frisk, after talking to you... I’m- I’m glad Chara has you. Because it looked like… the blackness hurt them. I could see their soul, and it looked like it was broken and crying.” Asriel heaves a heavy sigh, it shaking at the edges, “Chara is my friend Frisk. It’s scarier knowing they’ve always… been hurting like that.” His big eyes look up at you, slightly filling with tears. One trembles down his cheek, and you rub it away gently. A small smile lights his face.
I hope you continue being good friends with Chara. They need someone to show them they can be happy. Do you think you can help them be happy?
“I can try. And I’ll definitely show them I won’t hate them either.” Asriel gets up, looking as if he intended to leave. However you grab onto his shirt as he takes a step forward, “Frisk?” He asks, looking a little startled. You can't let him leave yet… you had to keep it secret. Scrambling with the pen and paper you hurriedly write out your plea, eyes begging as you hand over the note.
Please, Asriel, don't tell anyone. Not even your parents. Keep this a complete secret… I don't know if the other monsters will want to keep Chara around if they do things like this!
“Monsters aren't that mean, Frisk. They'd understand. You said it yourself, Chara can't help it. Like mama can't help making jokes with Sans.”
Please Asriel. Keep this secret. For me? For Chara?
Asriel scrunches his face together, apprehension marring his features. “Alright.” He finally concedes, after an agonizing few seconds.
P r o m I s e?
“I promise to keep this secret.”
For the second time today, you decide to use your voice, “Thank you.” Asriel eyes widen, and he suddenly smiles widely at you.
“You spoke to me!” You nod your head, and he giggles, “Am I the only one you've spoken to?” another nod, “Haha I know two secrets now!” His eyes flicker to Chara’s body, still looking conflicted, “As long as you keep your promise, Frisk, I will keep mine. Chara isn't bad all the time. They just… have blackness.” Asriel leaves on that note, with you once again silent and alone.
The minutes only seem to tick by slowly with your errant thoughts. You close your eyes. Is it really a good decision to not tell anyone about what Chara can become? The thought continues to haunt your mind, but the worried, anxious and fearful looks of the monsters when you had first seen them was more than enough of a reason to keep your silence. You lean forward, scrunching your face into a twisted expression, a strangled sigh expressing the still turmoil thoughts.
Was it really the right decision?
Chara moans loudly, stretching on the bed. Their one arm hits the top of your back, and you screech, startled. You whip about in place, trying to calm yourself as you notice their pale eyelids fluttering. They never wake up this fast after an episode. You mention to yourself, and hand over your erratic heart. Perhaps it’s all the sleeping they’ve done lately…?
“What time is it?” They ask blearily, yawning. They crack their eye open to you, and you mention it’s only been around two hours since you went to sleep. Their eyebrows crinkle together, puzzled, “Really? Hmm.” They get up, rubbing their eyes, “I guess I’m not really that tired right now.” They look up at you, but then suddenly look away, “Did goat mother make lunch?”
You hum an affirmative tone. Chara bounds off the bed, “Good. I’m pretty hungry, actually.” They walk out the doorway, fully intending to head downstairs.
You blink a few times, more than befuddled. You slowly get up, making your way downstairs behind them. You just catch the awkward encounter as Asriel sees Chara make their way down the stairs.
“H-Hello, Chara. Feeling better already?” Asriel asks stiffly. His eyes glance up to find you, and he relaxes a bit. Chara opens their mouth to give a reply, but nothing comes out. They walk into the kitchen instead, refusing to look at Asriel, “Is Chara really feeling better?” Asriel asks you. You shrug, following behind them.
Chara has settled into one of the kitchen tables, already asking Toriel- who was cleaning the dishes, obviously from the multitude of children that had been here earlier, “Is it too late for lunch?”
“Oh, my dear child! Feeling better already?"
"Yeah. Maybe I was just a little tired." Chara supplies evasively.
Toriel, however, takes that explanation in stride, "How splendid! Maybe we can finish our tour after all!” She happily dries off her paws on the towel hanging around her neck, as she finishes the last of the plates. She beams at both of you, and you settle at the chair opposite of Chara, “And there is plenty of lunch still left! Let me heat it up for the two you!”
Asriel makes his cautious way into the kitchen, settling himself in the chair beside you. His questioning gaze is met to your own as Chara still continuously doesn’t look at him. They had barely been looking at you, too.
Toriel places two steaming plates of cheesy, baked noodles in front of you and Chara. Chara silently digs in, focusing on their plate resolutely. You continue to stare at Chara. Toriel’s form moves in and out of view as she comments she wanted to get a few things for the rest of the tour.
“Stop staring at me.” Chara mutters into their plate, as Toriel leaves the room, “Didn’t your mother ever teach you manners?" A sour, taunting look holds in their eyes as they glance up at you, "Oh wait, you never had one.”
You narrow your eyes, neither did you. You gesture to Chara, but they just huff and return to their plate. The meal continues on in an awkward, tense silence.
“Chara, are you upset about what happened?” Asriel pipes up. Chara freezes, the fork halfway to their mouth.
“I’m never upset over anything. I have better things to do than waste my time with that sort of stuff.” Chara retorts, savagely eating the noodles off their fork.
“Oh. Well, I was upset over it. But after talking to Frisk, I felt a bit better. Did you want to talk about it?”
“No.” Chara snaps out, jabbing the fork into the mess on their plate.
Chara- Toriel comes in, cutting off any sort of conversation. Chara pushes their plate, only half done the food they requested.
“It’s really stuff in here, actually. Can we leave now?” Chara demands of Toriel, as they walk towards the door to outside.
“Oh, but my child, you did not finish your lunch.”
“I wasn’t as hungry as I thought.” Chara mutters unenthusiastically. Toriel hums and haws, before declaring she was going to save it for later, in case Chara was hungrier. You finish your plate slowly, much to the aggravation of Chara.
“Can you hurry it up?” Chara huffs, scooting to the side as Asriel makes his way over to stand at the door too, “I’d like to see the rest of the town today not next week.”
“Dear one, that is rather rude.” Toriel chides, but you simply shrug it off and finish the rest of your lunch. You stand up, dust your pants, and give the okay. Chara nearly flies out the door, a full few steps ahead of both you and Asriel.
“Do they always act this weird after it happens?” Asriel asks you. You give a grunt. He looks up at you, and sees the shrug you supply.
“Well, young ones, I suppose I should take you to the other side of town. I can show you the school, but perhaps I will save that for tomorrow, when classes resume.”
“Mooom can’t you make the weekend last a little bit longer? It’s a special occasion! Humans came into town!”
“I am afraid not, my child. We must simply start teaching the younger ones the language of hands. After all, don’t you wish to speak to Frisk?”
“I guess so.”
“We shall head towards Undynes and then back down and around to the lake. Come, take my hands children, and we shall head off.”
You find yourself following behind Toriel, Asriel and Chara, as people stop to try and converse with you. However, since the three were up ahead, all you could do was politely nod, smile and shrug, none of the other monsters able to understand you. Besides, you were too busy trying to keep an eye for Chara in order to be any other type of friendly. You quickly try to jog to catch up to them, passing by a rather large building- barely hearing Toriel’s informative voice announce this was her school.
Chara was indeed acting a little weird. Asriel constantly kept running up to them, looking as if to engage in a conversation, but Chara was not participating. Even from back here you could see how awkward and distant they were acting with Asriel. You had a feeling you understood what was going on, but wasn’t about to interfere. If Chara wasn’t about to ask you about it, or talk to you about it, you weren’t going to pry. Chara was an independent person anyway.
“This is Undyne’s house.” Toriel announces, taking you up to a large, fish-like house. The house was dark blue in nature, just like the monster herself. A large beige mat was set up, surrounding the front and heading off to cover a large portion of the area to the right. A bunch of weapons, gloves, and what looked to be training dummies, were sporadically placed on the beige surface.
Even if Toriel hadn’t mentioned anything, I’m sure I would have already known, you think to yourself, silently laughing. Toriel meanders up to the door, rapping on the wood lightly. No one answers. Toriel tries again, but still nothing.
“I guess Undyne must be out patrolling.” Toriel murmurs, returning to the three of you, "Shall we go-?"
“HEYA MISS MAYOR!” To everyone’s surprise, Undyne comes jogging around the backside of her house. A fine sheen of sweat is on her brow, the former armour that she wore gone. Instead was a dark tank-top and shorts. Glinting teeth come out in a wolfish smile as she regards Asriel, “Heya lil’ Asri! What can I do ya for-?” Undyne stops in her pleasurable greetings as she catches a glimpse of you and Chara stepping out from behind Toriel. Her smile instantly turns into a scowl, “What do the humanswant?” Undyne bites out, tossing her towel aggressively onto one of the training dummies.
“Undyne, be more courteous. Frisk and Chara are not your enemies.”
Undyne snorts again, pulling a sour face, “Just because they’re acting all innocent and kind doesn’t mean a thing. Don’t you remember what the last human did when they came here? Is everyone going to be so easily fooled again?” She growls low in her throat, a warning glint in her eyes, “I’m not going to be fooled. Not this time. Humans are dangerous.” Chara lets out a tiny whimper. What happened earlier today flashes in your eyes. Your face pales. If Chara starts, I’m going to have to act fast. Asriel, too, was looking at Chara, his face unreadable.
“Undyne!” Toriel snaps out in a commanding, scolding tone, but Undyne doesn’t look sorry or upset.
“As the Chief of police here, ma’am, I’m only doing my duty. And my duty is to protect the monsters that live here from danger.” Undyne steps up, her eyes slowly focused on both you and Chara, "And, like I said, humans are dangerous. These two are a threat."
“That’s- That’s not fair!” Asriel cries out, standing between you, Chara and Undyne, “Chara and Frisk haven’t done anything! You can’t just call them dangerous! They’re really nice! They aren’t like the other humans that came, I know that!”
“You were too young to remember them, Asriel.” Undyne retorts.
“That doesn’t matter! I- I just know! I know Chara or Frisk wouldn’t want to hurt any of us! They don’t! They like it here!” Tears of frustration well in Asriel eyes, “You just don’t know them yet, like I do!”
"Know them? They've only been here a couple of days!"
"You just don't understand, Undyne!" Asriel turns around, and grabs Chara’s shaking hand, “Let’s go, Chara.” He says forcefully, dragging them away, “It’s the mean words like yours that make people do bad things!” Chara stumbles along, gulping harshly. You follow behind, only slightly hearing the lecture Toriel was sternly giving to Undyne.
“I can hurt you.” Chara whispers darkly, stumbling behind the infuriated Asriel, “Sometimes I feel like I want to.”
“But you won’t. I know you won’t hurt me.”
“You can never guarantee that, goat boy.”
“I know you won’t Chara. That’s why you left the group today. It’s because you are a good person.”
“Fish lady was correct. Humans are d a n g e r o u s.”
“But that doesn’t mean they can’t be good people. My parents are dangerous too, but they are still good. You are a good person Chara. I believe that.”
You rush up, grabbing Chara’s other hand. They look up at you, the small tears filling their eyes. You give a smile, and whisper gently,
“Mercy.”
Their lips tremble, and they look away, “I hate the both of you.” Chara breathes out on a shaky breath, the tears falling onto their cheeks.
“I like you too Chara.” Asriel responds warmly, and you squeeze Chara’s hand. It’s a comforting feeling when Chara squeezes back.
Asriel leads the two of you to a “Grillby’s Restaurant” in order to wait for Toriel to catch up. The restaurant smells pleasantly of fried foods, and has a dim, orange hue to it. A few monsters walk out of the double doors. They point at the three of you, whispering amongst themselves before they head straight into the depths of the town.
The three of you wait in silence for Toriel to return. She does so a few minutes later, her face red as she huffs slightly.
“Sorry, children, I should have known. Undyne was never really receptive of the other humans, and I confess she is rather stubborn to begin with.” Toriel walks gently up to the three of you, her soft paws resting on your cheeks, before carefully going to Chara’s. Chara flinches away, but lets herself be held by Toriel, “Oh! You look like you have been crying, my dear little one. I truly am sorry. I shall immediately get Undyne to write an apology to you. There is no excuse for causing such a sweet innocent to cry.”
“Don’t bother.” Chara rumbles out bitterly, “I don’t want any sort of apology from her.”
“Are you sure, my little one? It is no trouble at all.”
“No, I’d really rather not have some fake apology letter from a sour fish. Can we continue with the tour now? I don’t want to stand here all day.”
“If you are sure.” Toriel stands up, a little uneasy. Yet with no other indication from Chara, she gestures to the restaurant before all of you.
“Well, without further ado, I present Grillby’s restaurant. I confess that his food is perhaps not the best for such growing, developing young bodies as yourself, but I hear it is quite tasty. Shall we greet him? He is a very interesting fellow.”
All of you push past the doors into the, dimly lit, murky, restaurant. In the orange glow, you could just make out booths and tables before you, all nestled before a large bar at the end of the restaurant. The restaurant had a pleasant air to it, very jazzy and comfortable. However, what was the most surprising thing was the man behind the bar.
He was a being made entirely out of fire.
The man, Grillby as Toriel enlightens you on his name, was a monster with the build of a normal, if a bit muscular, human being. He wore a bartender’s suit and apron, and was busily cleaning a glass mug as you all entered. The doorbell rang a few chimes, and he looks up at all of you. The flames on his head- which you assume was hair for this monster- crackles and pops in what seems to be welcome as a molten fiery mouth grins widely. The orange hue gets brighter as you all step up to the bar.
“Grillby, these are the humans that arrived just the other day. I would like to introduce them.” Toriel says, and Grillby nods, the sparks of his eyes focusing on the two of you.
“This is Frisk.” You give a polite wave and nod, to which Grillby returns.
“And this is Chara.” Chara purses their lips, but nods in a curt fashion. The hair on top of Grillby’s head crackles again.
“Howdy, Grillby!” Asriel exuberantly calls out, giving a huge grin to the fire monster. Grillby returns it with his own, his wide mouth revealing an incredibly molten tongue. It flickers, crackles and snaps in a sort of interesting type of language.
A patron of the restaurant perks up, a duck-like creature, “Grillby says it’s nice to meet you.” He supplies, leaning against the bar on the cushiony dark blue stool, “He’s a little shy; accidentally speaks in his native tongue when new people show up.” At that the fire monster seems to blush, the orange in his face glowing to a pinky-red colour.
That’s okay. I don’t really like to talk much either. You gesture out your statement to the monster, who only sizzles questioningly in response. Chara translates for you. Grillby gives you a thankful, warm smile.
As you all turn to leave, Toriel indicating she wished to move on, Grillby makes a sparking sound. You all turn to look, and he blushes slightly at the attention, as his mouth opens once more. The molten tongue flickers, “I hope you come by and eat here sometime.” He articulates softly, the flames on his head swaying.
You give a nod and a thumbs up, as a “If I feel like it” comes from Chara. You all exit the restaurant, and you note the air now feels slightly colder than before you had entered. You all begin to walk away from Grillby’s, heading in the direction you know would lead to the lake.
“WOWIE! IT’S THE HUMANS!” The familiar voice cries jubilantly at you from on the right. Everyone turns to find the tall, lanky skeleton rushing towards you. A quaint little blue house is settled in the distance from where you stand.
“I SAW YOU ON THE SHOW THIS MORNING!!" The skeleton booms out, as he reaches the group. Figurative stars explode in his eye sockets, as he continues to gush and babble.
Asriel immediately catches up to his enthusiasm, "Wasn't it amazing?! I was on it too!" He bleats out, ecstatic.
"I SAW I SAW!!! YOU THREE GOT TO TALK TO METTATON! WOWIE WOW!!!" The skeleton continues to hop up and down, trying to portray his excitement, "GOLLY I WISH I COULD BE AS COOL AS THAT! I WISH I COULD TALK TO METTATON!"
"Well, Papyrus, Mettaton's Hotel is literally on the other side of town. You could always just go over-" Toriel tries to explain, but Papyrus shakes his head.
"NO! I COULDN'T JUST SHOW UP AT THE HOTEL! ALTHOUGH I MAY BE GREAT- I'M NOT NEARLY AS MAGNIFICENT AS METTATON! HE MUST HAVE DOZENS OF PEOPLE THERE ALL THE TIME!"
Chara crosses their arms, huffing, "I don't see how that robot is so great. He's just a bucket of bolts with a soul strapped on for a flashy effect."
"NONSENSE NONSENSE NONSENSE!" Papyrus explodes, "METTATON IS DASHING! DARING! COOL AND COLLECTED! HE IS POPULAR! WELL-LIKED! AND DEFINANTLY FAMOUS! HOW CAN HE NOT BE GREAT?"
He definitely did have charm, you agree with the skeleton. He latches onto that, continuously ringing out praises to the TV celebrity. Asriel joins in, chiming his own awe of the flashy robot. The two start animatedly talking about different shows Mettaton has starred in. However as the praises kept being sung, Papyrus's mood seemed to decrease to a conflicted one.
"Mettaton really is the coolest!" Asriel screeches out, hopping up and down.
"YEAH..." Papyrus agrees, however his gaze is directed to the ground. The look on his face grows dim, "ALAS, I WISH I COULD BE AS.... AS GREAT AS THAT. I'M NOT... I'M NOT EVEN A MEMBER OF THE ROYAL GUARD!" Papyrus seems to dejectedly confess, the curve of his mouth drooping.
Asriel looks stricken, and you share a look with Toriel. Chara rolls their eyes, "Papyrus! You'll be a member someday! You're training with Undyne, right? Isn't that cool itself?? You're training with the chief!!" Asriel squeaks out.
"I SUPPOSE SO. BUT UNDYNE TRAINS ALL THE RECRUITS HERSELF."
"Ahem, if I may point out, aren't you the Great Papyrus? However could you not be great if the word itself is in your own name?" Toriel asks softly, placing a comforting paw on his shoulder.
Papyrus gives a little chuckle, but he still looks slightly downtrodden.
"I think you're awesome Papyrus!" Asriel chimes in, trying to bring up his spirits once again. He looks up, smiling more.
"SOMEONE WHO HAS TALKED TO METTATON THINKS THAT I AM AWESOME? THE MAYORS TINY CLONE, NO LESS?"
Asriel nods his head furiously, "Yeah! You're super cool! And you wear a cape all the time! How cool is that? Like a superhero! Or a king!"
"WELL, YES, MY BATTLE BODY IS INDEED VERY MAGNIFICIENT, IF I MUST ADMIT." His eyes slide over to yours, and he falters a bit, "BUT PERHAPS NOT AS MAGNIFICIENT AS BEING A HUMAN SEEMS TO BE." Chara tilts their head up, cocking an eyebrow.
"You wouldn't ever say that if you knew what humans were really like." Chara announces bitterly.
"BUT METTATON HIMSELF CALLED YOU MYSTERIOUS AND INTERESTING!" Papyrus points out.
Oh no, Mister Great Papyrus, you gesture out gallantly, I, a human, think that you are incredibly interesting, and indeed very mysterious. I am more than humbled to be in your presence. If I may. With a grace you didn't know you had, you sweep into a low bow, spurred into that action by Asriel’s talk of kings. Papyrus giggles at the gesture, and you try to have Chara do the same. Chara only frowns, crossing their arms tighter against their chest.
"I'm not going to bow to make a skeleton feel better." They whine into your ear, as you slowly stand back straight. Papyrus is looking much more excited, his gloved hands against the curve of his cheekbones as he gaps at you.
"WOWIE. THE HUMAN BOWED TO ME, THE GREAT PAPYRUS! ISN'T THAT SOMETHING? THAT’S ALMOST LIKE METTATON BOWING TO ME!" He laughs, delighted, and Toriel smiles at you.
"We should probably continue on, though dear. I would like for Chara and Frisk to see the rest of the town before tonight."
"CAN I JOIN YOU?" He looks shyly at you all, blushing slightly, "THE HUMANS GESTURE WAS TRULY WONDERFUL. I WOULD LIKE TO CONVERSE MORE WITH THEM."
"I think that is a wonderful idea, Papyrus. Please, feel free to join us."
Papyrus gladly walks in step with you. Chara mutters darkly, before trying to head a bit farther off with Asriel. He seems to protest slightly, wanting to talk to Papyrus too, but relents and skips ahead with them. Toriel follows after them.
"DO HUMANS ALWAYS WALK AT THIS SLOW OF A PACE?"
Some are faster. You comment, You can run ahead if you wish. I am afraid I do not walk much faster.
"THANK YOU FOR THE OFFER HUMAN, BUT I SHALL PASS. I KNOW HOW TO WALK SLOW. MY BROTHER IS ACTUALLY A MUCH SLOWER WALKER THAN YOU, WHEN HE ACTUALLY WALKED TO PLACES."
Is your brother the other skeleton? The one in the blue sweater?
"YES! YES HE IS! ACTUALLY, YOU CAN SEE HIM RIGHT OVER THERE!" Papyrus waves enthusiastically in the direction ahead of you. You spy that similar stall and cheeky grin. The skeleton waves lazily back, before resting his head on the stall, looking as if he was to fall asleep, "SANS! YOU ARE WORKING! DON'T SLEEP ON THE JOB!" Again Sans waves his hand, but doesn't raise his head up.
"YOU SEE? MY BROTHER IS INCREDIBLY LAZY."
I do see that. You gesture to Papyrus. Your eyes fixate on the blue skeleton, feeling more than slightly concerned. This was around the fifth time today he had shown up randomly, still situated with that strange wooden stall. How did he get around?
Was he watching you? The thought is disconcerting, especially if your hunch was right. You had to be extra careful of Chara with him around. Some of the looks he had given you when you caught him were not exactly the most kindest. Even Undyne's steely look seemed a kids jeer to that.
Papyrus excited voice brings you back around to face him, and he engages you into an interesting conversation- one that mainly revolved around how great he was. More than happy to just smile and nod at his praises of himself (not that you could do anything else), you find yourself heading just outside the residential area. The shimmering lake was just rising out of the horizon into view, and Papyrus was switching from himself to mention interesting facts about the area surrounding. He talked of a fitness trail to the side, as well as what he described to be strange dog-like things that resided somewhere deep on that trail.
"AND THIS IS LAKE EBOTT." Papyrus announces, wildly gesturing to the gigantic lake. You find Toriel conversing pleasantly with what seemed to be turtle-like creature. What also looked to be a Marina was off to the left, a shadowy, hooded figure standing there. Asriel and Chara were playing at the water’s edge. Well actually Asriel was making a sand castle and Chara kept scooping water up and either dumping it on the castle to ruin it, or flicking the water at Asriel.
"Hey, come on Chara, stop it! You're probably jealous I can make a better sandcastle than you!"
"Hmmph. You wish!"
You were glad that Chara and Asriel were alright again- and Chara themselves seemed relatively back to normal. However, the decision you had made weighs on you. Was it the right one? All the other monsters did seem to be very well-meaning, and would probably take well to the news. However, Undyne’s earlier rant still fiddles in the back of your skull. You couldn’t risk it. You couldn’t risk telling anyone else; especially if that news got to Undyne. Or even that blue skeleton.
"ELDER HUMAN! DO YOU WISH TO HAVE A SAND BUILDING CONTEST WITH ME TOO?" Papyrus asks, and you find yourself reluctantly agreeing. The four of you start an intense sand building contest, electing Toriel and the other turtle monster to be judges.
You don't try very hard, and make a basic sand castle. You, instead, decide to enjoy the show as the three try to out compete each other.
Papyrus, by far, was going to win. His sand castle was magnificently sculptured, with elegant archways and teeming towers. He was even building a flag to go on top.
Asriel and Chara were also making great castles- greater than yours at least- but they still paled in comparison to Papyrus's.
Chara was looking at Papyrus castle, a devilish look gleaming in their eyes. Asriel, too was looking at it in awe. You see Chara lean over, whisper something in Asriel's ear. He whispers back, a little uncertain but then begins to giggle. The two get up from their castles and saunter over to Papyrus's.
With cheeky smiles on their faces, you watch as the two get scoops of water in their hands. With even bigger smiles, they flick the water over top Papyrus- but really only managing to get as high up as his lower rib cage.
Papyrus balks, and stumbles into his castle accidentally. He looks at it crumbling over in vain, "MY MAGNIFICIENT CASTLE!" He calls out, trying to fix it. The castle continues to totter, half of its supports destroyed. It tumbles down into the sand, a mess. Chara gives a gleeful laugh.
"Children! That was incredibly rude!" Toriel scolds them, her eyes firm. The two look awkwardly away, as Asriel mumbles out a sorry.
"WORRY NOT CHILDREN. I AM NOT ANGRY AT YOU- AS LONG AS YOU WON'T BE ANGRY AT ME." The two squeal as Papyrus himself dumps water on top of them. He scrambles away with a loud “NYEH HEH HEH HEH HEH!”
“You’re going to regret that, skeleton!” Chara proclaims, as they proceed to scoop up more water. Asriel shrieks happily, joining Chara in tag-teaming Papyrus as he runs away. Somehow, you are enlisted to help- Papyrus being too fast for the two to catch- and it’s all three of you against him.
“THE ODDS MAY BE AGAINST ME, BUT NEVER FEAR! I AM THE GREAT PAPYRUS!” He laughs again, dodging and weaving between all three of you. The water fight continues, and somehow all three castles get stomped on and destroyed. Toriel declares a tie for all of you, leading Asriel and Papyrus to flaunt their shared victory. Chara groans, rolling their eyes at you.
Boys are so silly, aren’t they Chara? Chara laughs.
“Only these ones."
The hours seem to fly by as the four of you continue splashing and playing in the water. Soon Toriel is calling out for you, the light of the day drifting to below the horizon. In her hands she holds fluffy, white towels, “I believe this tour has been splendid.” She proclaims, offering each of you towels, “Although we did not visit everyone, that is okay. You will no doubt see them around eventually. Everyone so far has liked you wholeheartedly, so I simply must call that a success.” Toriel claps her hands in a gleeful manner, happy that everyone was getting along. The only problem had been Undyne so far, but Toriel knew she would be won around eventually.
Papyrus declines the towel Toriel offers to him, "NO NEED, MISS MAYOR. THE WALK BACK WILL DRY ME." However he turns to you and Chara sheepishly. You cock your head as he blushes, "I HOPE THAT WE CAN ALL BE FRIENDS." He announces. Impulsively, he grabs at your hands, trying to instil a serious air, "ALTHOUGH YOU MAY BELIEVE I AM UNATTAINABLE DUE TO YOUR ADMIRATION OF MY GREATNESS, FEAR NOT! I AM VERY MUCH WILLING TO BE FRIENDS- YOUR BESTEST SKELETON FRIEND EVEN- TO YOU TWO. TODAY WAS- TODAY WAS FANTASTIC! I WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE TO HAVE MORE, GREATER EXPERIENCES WITH YOU HUMANS."
You nod your head, smiling. You squeeze the hands in his gloves reassuringly, It would be wonderful to be friends with you, oh Great Papyrus. His eyes twinkle and he laughs happily before announcing he was going home.
Toriel asks if he wishes them to walk him back, but Papyrus declines again, "NO NEED, MISS MAYOR. I KNOW MY WAY BACK!" The skeleton then sprints off, waving. Toriel chuckles.
All of you make the tired trek back to the mayor’s house, the lights glowing with warm reassurance. The door is opened by a welcoming Asgore, who mentions he had caught your TV session with Mettaton earlier today. All of you step inside, hanging the wet towels up on the coat rack. Toriel and Asgore nuzzle their noses affectionately in an intimate greeting. Asriel yawns, incredibly tired from all the events today, and tugs at Toriel’s dress.
“Do you wish to go to bed, my child?” With a sleepy nod, Toriel smiles and carts him upstairs, as Asgore returns to the kitchen. You and Chara follow behind Toriel, ready to change out of the wet cloths. Chara sleepily sits on the bed, also tired from today’s events. They wait patiently for you to finish changing, and you sigh knowingly, before helping them to get dressed.
Do you wish to sleep now? You gesture to Chara.
“Are you?” They yawn loudly.
No. I don’t exactly feel that tired right now.
“Well, I’m not either.” They conclude, and willingly totter after you as you make your way back downstairs. You find Asgore still sitting at the kitchen table, a steaming cup of tea beside him. A pile of papers and notes are on the desk in front, reading glasses perched delicately on his nose. He looks up and smiles at you as you make your way to the table and sit down. Chara sits on the chair beside you, still yawning.
“It was a brilliant idea to have Mettaton interview the both of you.” Asgore comments, as he sets his glasses on the table, “Would either of you like a cup of tea?” Asgore asks. Chara declines the offer, but you accept. He happily gets up and pours another cup, placing it in front of you, before sitting back down in his chair.
You sip at the delicious tea, smiling as the warmth spreads down your throat. It wasn’t my idea. Mettaton wanted to do it.
“I can believe that. He is such a lively fellow. Did you know that Alphys made him? She’s a very smart girl.”
Yes. Asriel mentioned that today. But who is Alphys?
“Did you not met her on your travels today?”
No.
Asgore gives a little sigh, “Not really that surprising. Alphys isn’t the most social of monsters. If you recall from a few days ago, she was the little yellow lizard in the lab coat and glasses.”
Ah yes. I remember. Does she make robots for a living?
“No. Er, yes? I’m honestly not sure. Her official title is a scientist, but I confess I’ve never asked her about what… that implies.”
Oh. I see. Chara taps your arm, and you look down to see their tired eyes looking up at you. Rolling your eyes slightly, you move your arms up so Chara could clamber their way onto your lap. Settling carefully in your arms, Chara proceeds to fall asleep on you. Asgore chuckles.
“My little Asri does that to me all the time.” He comments, smiling.
You sigh, trying to drink your tea without disrupting Chara. It makes doing things difficult.
“Yes, but you live with it. It’s just what you do for your little ones.”
You look down at the innocent face of Chara resting on you, several emotions dwelling deep in the depths of your heart. There are a lot of things you do for the ones you care for. You confess to Asgore. He rumbles an agreement.
The two of you continue the enjoyable chatter, until you finish the last bit of tea in your cup. You let out a yawn, stretching slightly. Chara grumbles in your lap.
Well, I best head off to bed too. Have a good night, Asgore.
He bides you a fond night as well, placing the glasses back on his nose to return to his work. Heaving, you lift up the sleeping Chara in your arms and make your way back up the stairs.
You settle them comfortably on the bed, but find yourself still not wanting to sleep. What is wrong with me? You think to yourself, scratching your head. You yawn once more, obviously tired. Do I just not want to get in the bed? You force yourself to lay down, but still feel unwilling to sleep.
Chara moans and turns towards you. The shadows play on their face, the darkness of the night sinking it into a strange expression. Your heart leaps in your chest, and you scramble away from the brief flash of memory that disturbs you. You land on the floor in a heap, and close your eyes, chest heaving. It’s only the shadows. It’s only the shadows. You think to yourself, shakily getting up once again. You bite your lip, regarding Chara’s peaceful form. You breathe in and out, trying to calm yourself. But you weren’t going to calm down, that you knew.
I guess I’m going to have to go back to not sleeping properly. You think to yourself, running a tired hand through your hair. Your lips tremble on overflowing emotions in the silence of the darkness. For years you refused that part of you inside, trying to overcome it- or ignore it- but it was hard to do so in the silence of the night; when all the memories and feelings of the day, and of past days, would roll around in your head. It’s so much easier to ignore it during the day. I have an obligation, a duty then… Something to do, a distraction to my inner thoughts. Shakily you return to the bed, curling up to try and avoid Chara. It doesn't work that way, and Chara gravitates towards you. You resign yourself to perhaps being able to drift into a dead sleep. However, with Chara pressing up against you, snuggling into your back, you knew you weren’t going to be able to close your eyes tonight. Ghostly hands squeeze your heart painfully, reminiscent of earlier. The scar on your neck burns, and other wounds seem to trickle and itch down your body. Guilt locks in your throat as you flinch away from Chara’s hand flopping onto your side. You were glad they weren’t awake to witness your betrayal, but you also wished they were awake so you could force yourself to ignore these feelings. Your words of we can always have forgiveness curls back in your mind, taunting and teasing you. Mocking you. Shaming you. The decision to keep that Chara secret rears its way into your thoughts, trumping everything else with its gloating indignity. More and more thoughts press their way into your skull, all hording for attention, all waiting to take a bite out of your sanity.
Why does this have to be so hard? You sob to yourself, biting back the tears. It’s not fair.
I hate nighttime.