Undying

The Second Chance

On a personal quest, the monster warrior Undyne finds herself in the land of Marbillan in the town of Dunsparce. She is searching for a lost friend by traveling through time and space. Within Dunsparce she is staying at the Evening's Respite Inn. She arrived the night before in the pouring rain and decides to ask around town for any signs of her lost companion in the morning. After renting a room, she lays her head down to sleep. Suddenly she is jolted awake by the innkeeper.

Innkeeper: Wake up! Please wake up!

Undyne: What the heck are you DOING! Didn't I PAY you to sleep in this room!?

Innkeeper: Please it's an emergency! You are a warrior are you not?

Undyne snaps to attention. The Innkeeper is a middle-aged woman with a kind face. Undyne remembers the woman being extremely polite when she arrived, even though it was extremely late and she was a wet, muddy mess.

Undyne: Yeah, I am.

Innkeeper: The town is under siege from nightmarish creatures! The town guards are being decimated! They will be here any—

Suddenly a shadowy blob crashes through the bedroom window and leaps for the innkeeper. The innkeeper screams and manages to barely sidestep the creature's attack. Undyne rises from her bed in a flash and conjures a spear. The spear is made of a mysterious light-blue energy. Undyne is able to create these spears at will. It is a common trait for the monsters of her homeland to create such weapons. The creature is recovering from its missed attack. It is making horrible gurgling sounds like someone screaming underwater. Undyne hurls her spear at the creature and makes a direct hit. The creature wails in agony and explodes. A thick black liquid is strewn across the room.

Undyne: Secure your doors, avoid windows, and stay inside.

Innkeeper: Y-yes I will!

The innkeeper quickly runs out of the room. Undyne eyes her armor and smirks.

Undyne: This town sure is lucky I showed up today.

She dawns her armor. Undyne has a tall, lean, and muscular physique. She is an aquatic monster with blue skin and fins where her ears should be. Her face is somewhat ugly and battle-scarred. An eyepatch covers her left eye which she lost in battle defending a faraway kingdom. She has sharp pointy teeth which are often contorted into a big toothy grin. She has long, red hair which she keeps in a flowing ponytail. Her armor is made of steel and makes her appear much bulkier than she actually is. During her combat training, there was no armor built for a warrior of her stature, so she made due with this larger set. She could have found better-fitting armor long ago, but she has grown attached to this set which has served her in countless battles. She stands tall, proud, and ready for combat.

Undyne bursts out of the inn and surveys the situation of the town. She sees the town guard has created a blockade at one end of the town, but they are not holding very well. The inky black creatures are leaking through their ranks and bursting into some of the houses in town. Undyne sprints towards the blockade and leaps into the air above the guard's heads. She conjures a series of spears which she sends careening towards the enemy ranks. The creatures are hit hard by the barrage and are pushed back. Undyne lands in front of the town guards and calls back to them over her shoulder.

Undyne: Go back into town and take out the stragglers! I will stop their advance!

The commander of the town guard nods and orders his troops back into the town. Undyne stands alone against the creatures. The ground is wet and muddy from the rain which has since dispersed. A mist is forming throughout the town. Undyne struggles to see the remaining creatures in the night but sees that they are mobilizing. She leaps into the enemy ranks with a spear in each hand and begins decimating everything in her path. Fighting continues into the night and when the sun begins to rise the town is covered in the thick black remains of the unholy creatures.

After the battle Undyne is physically exhausted. She walks back into the center of town and is greeted by a celebration. Unenthused by the festivities, Undyne takes the time to ask around for her missing companion. Several people suggest that she should visit the old man that lives in the secluded house on the hill. Taking their advice, Undyne heads up the hill after cleaning up at the inn.

The house is small and unassuming. It's made of simple wood. If Undyne had not been told to go there she probably would not have given the place a second glance. She knocks on the door and is greeted by a gravelly voice.

Old Man: HYAH! Huh who's there?! Who would visit me at this hour?!

Undyne: Uh, it's like the middle of the day.

Old Man: Oh, well… that may be the case. It doesn't matter! Who are you?!

Undyne: My name is Undyne and I was told you could help me find my friend.

There is a silent pause. Undyne can hear the old man moving about the house and eventually the door opens. The man is extremely old but you can tell that in his youth he was serious business. He has white hair and a beard. He is wearing an odd kilt. His garb is green and he is wearing distinct brown boots. It is clear that he has trouble walking and uses a wooden cane to support his weight. The old man eyes Undyne up and down.

Old Man: You look like you could handle yourself in a fight.

Undyne: Uh yeah, I only COMPLETELY SAVED the town last night.

The old man's eyes widen.

Old Man: HYUH!? The town was in danger?!

Undyne: Yes, the town was nearly overrun by monsters last night! I fought them off until dawn! There was a huge celebration! How did you miss it?!

The old man sighs.

Old Man: I can't believe I missed it again! I'm really getting too old for this.

The old man looks Undyne sincerely in the eye.

Old Man: Thank you for protecting the people of this town. You have succeeded where I could not. Please come in.

He motions for her to come inside. Undyne follows the old man into his home. The house is well-furnished on the inside. It's a simple one room cabin with a bed in one corner and a fireplace with a roaring fire inside. There is a variety of ornate looking weapons and other souvenirs from countless adventures. Undyne notices swords, shields, magical instruments, bows, slingshots, hammers, bombs, grappling hooks, and three ornate masks. The masks are particularly interesting. Each one is unique. One is some kind of sad wooden forest creature, another is a brown rocky sturdy creature, the third is an aquatic creature that somewhat resembles Undyne. The old man takes a seat next to the fireplace in a large armchair and invites Undyne to take a seat in another one.

Old Man: So your name is… Undyne you said? That's an exotic name. Where are you from?

Undyne: I come from a place called the Underground. It's a place where monsters like me were once exiled.

Old Man: Why were you exiled?

Undyne: It was… a misunderstanding between monsters and humans along with a history of conflict. Anyway, this has since been RESOLVED and monsters like me are free to live on the Surface now.

Old Man: Well that's all well and good but you told me you were looking for someone.

Undyne breaks her gaze and stares into the fireplace.

Undyne: I have a friend… Alphys. Well she may be MORE than a friend… anyway. She's a scientist. She was trying to use a POWERFUL substance she discovered in humans that she called DETERMINATION to harness environmentally efficient energy. Her design was based on a mysterious device that she found in a secret lab. Anyway… something went… WRONG. She was sent… somewhere… from her experiments. Many of my friends think she is dead but I REFUSE to believe it! Her body was never found! I know she is out there somewhere! I just HAVE to find her!

Undyne pauses for a moment.

Undyne: Anyway… that's what brings me here. Can you help me find Alphys?

The old man furrows his brow and pauses, taking in Undyne's tale.

Old Man: Everyone in this town is looking for someone or something. I can help you Undyne.

Undyne perks up, eager to hear more.

Old Man: However, I am going to need something from you first.

Undyne's face slowly contorts into rage.

Undyne: What is this CRAP!? What could YOU need help with that's more urgent than finding my friend!?

Undyne leaps out of her chair which goes careening across the room. She readies a spear and points it at the old man. The old man just laughs.

Old Man: HYAH HA HA! You remind me of myself when I was your age, but Undyne please there's no need for that! Just hear me out! Let me ask you, do you remember how you got to this town?

Undyne dispels her spear and calms down. She is still awkwardly standing in the room.

Undyne: Uh… well… I just kind of… started walking. I had no idea how to go about finding Alphys but I just knew I had to start moving. I walked into the forest past Snowdin and eventually I arrived at this town. A terrible thunderstorm started up during my trek.

Undyne's eyes widen.

Undyne: Now that I think about it… I'm not sure WHERE I am, or how I can get back!

The old man laughs again.

Old Man: HYAH HA HA HA! Oh to be so headstrong! So focused on your goal, you don't even realize how lost you are! You and I are quite similar!

The old man pauses.

Old Man: Listen… this town is… special. Many different people from many different places end up in this town. The town's residents don't even remember the meaning of this town's name "Dunsparce." Someone from somewhere must have named it and moved on, went back to where they came from. Anyhow, remember how I mentioned everyone in this town is looking for someone or something? Well, Undyne I think you might be who I've been looking for.

Undyne's glare narrows.

Old Man: Did you notice these masks hanging on the wall?

Undyne nods.

Undyne: Yes, I noticed them when I walked in. They're kinda… creepy.

The old man smiles.

Old Man: Yes, I suppose they are. I got these masks from my adventures in a land called Termina. It was there that I first learned about the existence of gateways.

Undyne raises an eyebrow.

Old Man: I'm sure they go by many names but that's what the people in this town call them. It's how you got here Undyne, you passed through a gateway. They're mysterious areas where, if you are guided by fate, you can be transported to another world entirely.

The old man becomes deadly serious.

Old Man: I have an item. A very evil item. It's the evil that once threatened the land of Termina. I have kept it hidden here for years, waiting for a warrior powerful enough to return it to its resting place.

Undyne: Why didn't you return it YOURSELF?

The old man sighs.

Old Man: Believe me I tried, but like I said, gateways are controlled by fate, and my fate in Termina must be complete. On top of that… using those masks… kind of messed me up.

The old man motions towards his cane.

Old Man: Listen those monsters that attacked the town last night were after this evil and they will not rest until it is unleashed again to destroy this world, and the next, and the next until everything is destroyed.

Undyne: So you want me to take this item somewhere where it can't do any harm?

The old man nods.

Undyne: And you WILL help me find Alphys after I'm done?

Old Man: I can't make you any promises that you can find her. Fate is fate, but there are ways that I can point you in the right direction.

Undyne pauses and considers the old man's proposal.

Undyne: Alright FINE. I guess saving the world or multiworld or whatever is what Alphys would want me to do anyway. What do I need to do?

The old man cautiously reaches into a secret compartment in the wall below the hanging masks. He pulls out an ornate purple box that's tightly sealed with a magical lock.

Old Man: I need you to take this back to the land of Termina, back to Stone Tower Temple where it was originally sealed away.

Undyne reaches for the box, but the old man snatches it away.

Old Man: For your sake, do NOT look in this box! Just looking at what's inside is extremely dangerous. Do you understand?

Undyne nods.

Old Man: Alright, here take it.

Undyne takes the box from the old man. The instant she touches the box she can feel that it's serious business. A feeling of dread washes over her and convinces her that this old man was telling the truth. This thing needs to be sealed away. Undyne begins to head towards the door but the old man stops her.

Old Man: Let me ask you, do you plan on taking on this quest alone?

Undyne: Well I guess you're not coming so…

Old Man: I suggest you head to the Moon's Rest Pub. There are a lot of characters who pass through this town. Maybe one of them will help you.

Undyne: Thanks for the advice.

She turns towards the door. On her way out she notices an odd hat hanging at the door. It's a long floppy green cap that ends in a point. It's unlike any hat she's ever seen.

Undyne: I just realized I never got your name.

Old Man: I go by many names, none of which are particularly of interest now. I'm just the old man living in the house on the hill, nothing more.

With that Undyne leaves the house with her cursed package in tow.

Undyne heads to the Moon's Rest Pub, following the advice the old man gave her. Undyne decides to head in wearing casual clothing. A black tank top, blue jeans, and brown boots. She carries the cursed item with her in a brown satchel. She can still feel the item's evil aura from her bag. The establishment is quite large, one of the biggest buildings in the town. Undyne surmises that the place must be pretty important. There is a sign on the outside of the building that reads:

Moon's Rest Pub

For Seasoned Adventurers

There is not any other signage on the place. Like many of the things in this town, Undyne would never have imagined this place was anything other than mundane. Undyne opens the front door and heads inside. The interior of the pub is spacious and lively. There are not many furnishings, just basic wooden tables and chairs. There is a bar on one side of the room where a man and woman are serving drinks. The other end of the room features a large corkboard. Undyne walks up to it. The board simply reads "Quests."

Undyne: Should I post something here? Nah, I think I'd rather talk to someone I'm not doing a freaking job interview.

Undyne looks around the room. There is a variety of characters in the pub. Undyne notices a strange limbless creature talking to a big blue frog, a short figure with long blonde hair and futuristic-looking armor, a light-blue anthropomorphic fox with a big hat, and a big fat man with a yellow cap talking to a really skinny man with a purple cap. And that's only a few of the people that she noticed. Feeling somewhat overwhelmed, Undyne decides to chat with the people serving drinks for guidance. Undyne takes a seat at the bar next to a gorgeous blonde in technological armor. Undyne notices that one of her arms is a cannon. She is approached by a man with dark blue hair and eyes to match.

Bartender: Hey, I don't know your face. Can I get you a drink miss...?

Undyne: Undyne, and I'll take some tea, sweetened.

Bartender: Coming right up.

The bartender turns away to get her drink. Undyne glances at the woman next to her who quickly looks away. Undyne decides to strike up a conversation anyway.

Undyne: Hey my name's Undyne. It's my first time here, can you tell me about this place?

The woman responds tersely, still looking away.

Woman: I don't want to talk. Ask the bartender.

Undyne's face contorts.

Undyne: How RUDE!

The bartender returns with Undyne's drink and she takes a sip.

Bartender: Is it to your liking?

Undyne: Yes, thank you. Hey it's my first time here and I've been ADVISED to ask YOU for guidance.

She makes sure the rude woman can hear her.

Bartender: Oh did she give you the cold shoulder? Don't mind it, Samus here can get grumpy sometimes.

Samus: I don't like dealing with newbies.

Samus then gets up and walks away.

Bartender: I seriously wonder why she even comes here sometimes. Don't worry most people here are more agreeable than her. My name is Elliot and I run this pub with my wife Claris. This is a hangout for seasoned adventurers to find new quests. Feel free to ask around for help or quests or you can post something on the board over there if no one around wants to help you out now.

Undyne: I don't have much to pay people with. Will that be a problem?

Elliot: Well it depends on who you ask, but one of the great things about this place is that it's filled with seasoned adventurers. Some will want to help you out because they are kind. Others may do it to seek a challenge or friendship. And some of course will demand payment. Speaking of which it's 3G for that drink.

Elliot raises an eyebrow and holds out his hand. Undyne hands him his payment. She looks around the pub for someone to chat with. Most of the people in the pub seem like they know each other. Very few people are sitting alone, but Undyne notices one man sitting at a table in the corner of the room by himself. She decides to try and talk with this man. Undyne tends to prefer quiet types. She approaches the table and greets him.

Undyne: Hey, mind if I take a seat?

The man does not turn to face her.

Man: If you insist.

Undyne awkwardly takes her seat. It is pretty clear that the man is not too happy about her presence.

Undyne: My name is Undyne, what's yours?

Man: You can call me Ivo.

Undyne: It's my first time here, is it yours too?

Ivo: Not exactly.

Ivo takes a look around the room.

Ivo: Many people here are not too fond of me.

Ivo is a tall man, around the same height as Undyne. He wears small dark glasses and has a pair gray of goggles on his head. The goggles have green lenses. Undyne surmises that they must be used for mechanical work. Ivo's most distinguishing feature is a huge bushy brown mustache. The mustache is so large that it fans out about a foot from either side of his face. His mustache makes up for his complete baldness. He has a small cue-ball-like head and pale white skin. Ivo's second most distinguishing feature is his large rotund gut. His arms and legs are long and gangly. Undyne wonders how he is able to support himself. His clothing is also bizarre. He wears a bright red jacket with four gold buckles on its chest and white accent stripes. His cuffs are bright yellow. There is a long white stripe that goes down the outside of each sleeve. The jacket almost reminds Undyne of a circus ringleader. He wears black pants that attach to his shoes. His shoes come to a point and have white accent stripes. His bare hands are almost larger than his head. He has a sinister mouth that pokes out from under his moustache. He has a toothy sinister grin. It is difficult to tell his age. He seems quite old but at the same time there is a sense of youth to him. Undyne finds him somewhat off-putting. She understands why this man is sitting alone. He has a somewhat sinister demeanor, like he holds a grudge against everything around him.

Undyne: Do I even want to ask this guy for help?

Undyne: So, what's your story?

Ivo smirks.

Ivo: Why do you want to know? Do you have a job for me?

Undyne smirks back.

Undyne: I might, depends if you make an impression on me.

Ivo lets out a maniacal laugh.

Ivo: HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Well let's see if I do!

Ivo points dramatically into the distance.

Ivo: I used to be a great conqueror! I took over the entire world and molded it to my grand design! The mechanical power I wielded was overwhelming! I was unstoppable!

Ivo lowers his hand.

Ivo: However, I was eventually thwarted by my greatest nemesis. I fought him ferociously for years, but eventually the world was liberated and my glorious mechanical empire crumbled.

Ivo hangs his head.

Ivo: The hatred I held for my nemesis led me to the brink of insanity. I tried everything to defeat him. Each attempt more ridiculous than the last until eventually I realized that I never stood a chance.

Ivo takes a swig of his wine.

Ivo: So I branched out. I used my vast knowledge to discover this town, this nexus of worlds. My discovery of the infinite number of worlds gave me some perspective. I could barely hold power over just one world, so what's the point of even trying to conquer it all? Now my ambition to conquer has been extinguished. I mostly spend my days in this pub, watching people come and go. Wondering what to do with myself.

Undyne's face perks up.

Undyne: That's quite the tale.

Her face narrows.

Undyne: It's clear to me that you're skilled, but how can I know I can TRUST you? I have a very important quest and I'm not looking to get stabbed in the back.

Ivo thinks for a moment and then responds seriously.

Ivo: You can trust me because I've been on the other side of the fence. I've been tempted by power, embraced it, lost it, and found it lacking. You can trust me because I'm looking to start a new chapter in my life.

Undyne mulls over his response.

Undyne: He clearly has a sinister nature, but he has been straight up about it. Plus he is clearly wicked smart and well-read. I could probably use his expertise. I may need to watch my back, but I would feel that way about anyone in here.

Undyne: Alright Ivo, I think you've convinced me. Here's what we need to do.

Undyne takes the cursed box out of her bag and places it on the table.

Undyne: We need to take this cursed item back to Stone Tower Temple in the land of Termina so it can't do any harm.

Ivo pulls his goggles over his glasses and gingerly reaches towards the box.

Ivo: May I?

Undyne: I've been advised not to open the box. That's how dangerous this thing is.

Ivo: Mmmmmmmm how interesting.

Ivo inspects the box in detail.

Ivo: It's a rather pretty box isn't it? This lock is enchanted. Not exactly my expertise but I can tell that it is a very powerful seal. It would take some serious effort to get this thing open.

Ivo places the box back on the table and puts his goggles back on his head.

Ivo: I can feel the evil emanating from this… thing. I can see why you want it sealed away but… have you tried destroying it?

Undyne: This box was given to me by the old man on the hill. I'm assuming he's tried.

Ivo: Hrm? What old man? I don't know of him.

Undyne: That DOESN'T surprise me. It seems like he keeps to himself.

Ivo: Understandable.

Ivo sits up and looks Undyne square in the eye.

Ivo: So, what kind of payment can I expect from this endeavor?

Undyne: DAMN IT!

Undyne looks visibly flustered.

Undyne: Well, I can't offer much out of pocket, but the old man on the hill made a deal with me. He said he would help me find my friend. I suppose he could do something similar for you.

Ivo smirks.

Ivo: So you can't promise me anything can you?

Undyne hangs her head.

Undyne: No, um, no, I guess, I can't.

Ivo bursts out laughing.

Ivo: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! It's okay. I'll help you out anyway! Out of the… kindness of my heart. Maybe you can repay my generosity someday!

Undyne nervously smiles.

Undyne: Yeah, I guess I could.

Ivo puts his hand on Undyne's shoulder.

Ivo: We'll meet up here in the morning and head to Termina. Does that work for you?

Undyne nods.

Ivo: Stupendous, I'll see you then. Keep that… thing… safe until morning.

With that, Undyne places the box back into her bag, waves goodbye, and heads back to the inn for the night.

Undyne: Damn… Alphys… what have I gotten myself into?

Undyne wakes up at dawn and prepares herself for the journey. She puts on her suit of armor and places the rest of her valuables into her satchel. She heads to Moon's Rest when there are still beads of dew on the grass. When she arrives, she finds Ivo waiting for her outside the pub. He is wearing the same bizarre outfit that he wore yesterday. He is also leaning against some kind of battle mech. The mech is essentially a large sphere with two powerful legs. The sphere has red armor plating at its front and there is a single circular headlight poking out from the front of the mech. There is a powerful laser cannon on the mech's left side situated above the cockpit. On the mech's right side is a large bazooka. The cockpit is large and spacious with a wide leather seat. It looks quite accommodating for Ivo's girth. There is a small pane of glass at the front of the mech. It doesn't really look like the glass would be very protective to the pilot. Even so, the pilot would clearly be vulnerable from the sides and back. The mech has two large jets on each of its legs. The mech's coloration is gray with red accents. It looks impressive, but also somewhat insane. It seems poorly thought-out, like it probably works but there are extremely clear design flaws. Undyne surmises that Ivo is likely the only one who could pilot such a mech effectively.

Undyne approaches still staring at the mech. Ivo grins wickedly when he catches her staring.

Ivo: Beautiful isn't she? Admittedly it isn't my strongest creation, but it's general-purpose and a personal favorite.

He steps back and gestures to the mech like he's a gameshow host revealing a prize.

Ivo: I've dubbed it the Eggwalker.

Ivo pauses, waiting for a response. Undyne smiles awkwardly.

Undyne: It's… very impressive.

Ivo nods in approval and reaches into his mech. He pulls out a handheld device with a screen and large antenna poking from the top of it.

Ivo: Now about getting to Termina. This device should do the trick. I call it the Cross-world Eggporter!

Ivo extravagantly presents the device much like he did with his mech and waits for a response from Undyne. She smiles politely.

Undyne: What does it do?

Ivo comes to Undyne's side and shows her the device up close.

Ivo: It can create portals to other worlds! It's how I discovered this town!

Again he pauses. Undyne sarcastically responds.

Undyne: Wooooow!

Ivo: But that's not all! It can also scan an item and point out its origin world on the world spectrum!

Undyne: So we can use this to get to Termina?

Ivo: Indeed! Just place the box on the ground.

Undyne cautiously takes the box from her satchel and places it on the ground. Ivo points the antenna at the box and starts furiously typing on the device's touch screen.

Ivo: Hrmm… what's this thing made of wood? Ah it doesn't matter… just scan… not… dirt… and… here we go!

Nothing exciting happens. They just stand there in silence. Undyne eventually speaks up.

Undyne: Um… is it WORKING?

Ivo: Yes, it's scanning, be patient!

A moment later the device beeps.

Ivo: Aha! Here we go! All we need is a flat surface and we can open a portal to Termina! HAHAHAHAHAHA! I'm such a genius!

The duo heads to a blank wall on the side of the Moon's Rest. There is an alleyway between the pub and the next building. Ivo types furiously on the device again.

Ivo: Okay how big? I have… this much power… okay… need to get Eggwalker through… okay… maybe seven meters… okay… that works… here we go!

Suddenly a portion of the wall starts to gradually change. A square portal starts to fill in from the bottom of the wall revealing complete blackness. Upon closer inspection Undyne can see a dark hellish landscape filled with nightmarish monsters resembling those she fought off in the town, except these were far bigger and seemed much more dangerous. Terrible screaming can be heard emanating from the portal. Suddenly Undyne sees one creature notice the portal. It was a tall humanoid figure, totally black save for two glowing yellow eyes. The shape of its head resembled a heart with spikes coming out of it. The creature screeched and began charging towards the portal at a full sprint!

Undyne: Um… Ivo… I don't think this is Termina!

She turns to him but he doesn't even see what is happening. He is totally absorbed by his device.

Ivo: Hrmm… interesting… never seen this before… how can this be?

Undyne begins yelling.

Undyne: Ivo! Close the DAMN portal! This CAN'T be Termina! SOMETHING'S COMING!

Ivo looks up. His moustache droops. The creature is still sprinting at full speed. It is getting very near the portal.

Ivo: Okay… don't worry I've got this! Cancelling portal creation… beginning closing subroutine… should be gone in ten seconds!

The monster is getting very close.

Undyne: Come on, come on, close!

She readies a spear to strike the monster if it gets through. The monster gets to the portal and reaches a hand out towards Undyne. The monster is screeching loudly right in her face.

Ivo: Portal closing… now!

Suddenly the portal disappears. The creature's arm is severed, dropping to the ground. It slowly turns into a pile of black goop. Undyne glares at Ivo.

Undyne: Does that THING even WORK!?

She points her spear at the Eggporter.

Ivo: My device worked perfectly! That is the world where this… thing… originated!

Undyne: But that WASN'T Termina!

Ivo: I know… let me try something.

He begins furiously typing again.

Ivo: If I adjust the temporal scan… show not the origin world… but where it was at another time… let's try now!

Another portal begins forming. Undyne steels herself for another mistake. Luckily, she steels herself for nothing. The portal gradually forms, revealing a strange spiraling hallway. There is a large metal door at the end of the hallway.

Ivo: Aha! This seems correct!

He quickly leaps into his mech. The titanic machine whirs to life. It is surprisingly silent except when it moves. But even when it moves the noise is somewhat minimal. You can hear and feel the machine's giant steps, but the machine seems extraordinarily optimized and fine-tuned. Ivo walks the mech behind Undyne.

Ivo: I'm right behind you. I'll close the portal once we're through.

He gives her a thumbs up and another wicked grin. Undyne steps into the portal. She walks through the twisting hallway towards the metal door at the other end. The hallway gives her a strange sensation. As she walks she feels like she is being turned upside-down. When she gets to the door she has one thought in her mind: this place is not clean, it feels cursed. She looks back and sees Ivo sealing he portal. He turns back to her and gives another thumbs up. Undyne touches the center of the door and it slowly cracks open from the center. On the other side of the door she is greeted by the pleasant sound of flowing water. She can also hear the sound of many wooden gears spinning. Undyne surmises that she is in some kind of basement. She can see a wooden walkway leading up. The walkway heads over a small stream of flowing water. She takes the walkway and heads up to the next level. She immediately notices a large ornate piano. It has an artistic tangle of metal above the keys. The metal almost makes it look like an organ, but it is a piano if you look closely. There is a large pillar in the center of the room that connects to the lower level. The pillar is constantly spinning. There is a large wooden door with a few steps leading up to it on one side of the room. Undyne passes through the door and walks out into a courtyard. She immediately feels sunlight hit her face. There is some hustle and bustle with people milling around and walking through. There are a few benches set up near the edges of the courtyard. There are also a few stands set up with people selling their meager wares. Undyne turns around and views the structure she came out of. It's a huge tower with a giant ornate wooden clock. At least Undyne thinks it's a clock. It has a very ornate and peculiar design. It almost looks like a painting. It's as if it was designed more for artistic or ceremonial significance than for functionality. Ivo exits the tower in his mech and turns to Undyne.

Ivo: Alright, what's the plan?

Undyne thinks for a moment.

Undyne: We need to take the item to Stone Tower Temple.

She scratches her head.

Undyne: …and I have no idea where that is. So I think we should ask around for information. Maybe we can find some kind of tavern. People there may be willing to chat.

Ivo grins.

Ivo: Sounds good to me.

The duo explores the town. They quickly discover that the town is called Clock Town. As they walk around they get some bewildered looks from the townspeople. People are especially impressed by Ivo's mech, but no one really confronts the party for their foreign appearance. Everyone seems very busy. The townspeople seem to follow tight schedules as most people are hurriedly moving from place to place. Eventually Undyne and Ivo come across a small pub titled "The Milk Bar." Ivo parks his mech outside and the duo enters. The interior is dimly lit. There is a long staircase leading down to the main level. There is a small stage lit by two small electric lamps. The most distinguishing characteristic is the large spacious bar. The bar's surface is sleek and decorated with a cow-print pattern. A gruff-looking man stands behind the bar polishing a glass. Ivo nudges Undyne.

Ivo: Let me handle this.

Undyne shrugs. Ivo approaches the bar and takes a seat.

Ivo: Greetings my good sir! Me and my friend here were hoping you could help us out.

The bartender narrows his eyes.

Bartender: I can help you with a drink. But I don't really feel like doing much else.

Ivo: How about we start with drinks and go from there? What do you serve?

The bartender raises an eyebrow.

Bartender: Not from around here huh? That's strange. We don't see many outsiders. Where are you from?

Ivo: That's… not important. What drinks can we buy?

The bartender scoffs.

Bartender: If you WERE from around here you would know we only serve Chateau Romani.

Ivo: Er right, we'll have two of those. Sound okay my dear?

Undyne: Sounds wonderful.

Undyne speaks sarcastically and takes a seat at the bar.

Bartender: Well that will be 200G for each.

Undyne's face turns white.

Undyne: 200G EACH!? IS THIS STUFF MADE FROM PIXIE TEARS OR SOMETHING!?

Ivo gestures to Undyne.

Ivo: It'll be my treat.

He hands the bartender 400G. The bartender starts mixing things. Undyne turns to Ivo and speaks under her breath.

Undyne: How do you have that much cash?

Ivo: I am a man of science. Money isn't really an object for me.

Undyne gets really angry.

Undyne: WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSED TO—!

Just then the bartender returns with the drinks.

Bartender: Here you go, enjoy.

He hands over the drinks and turns away. Ivo quickly stops him.

Ivo: Now, we've paid for our drinks. How about some information for two humble wanderers?

There is a sneer in Ivo's last sentence. The bartender stares at Ivo coldly.

Bartender: You paid for drinks, that's it.

Ivo grins menacingly. He produces a handgun and lays it on the table. Undyne is shocked. Suddenly a woman's voice pierces the room.

Woman: There is no need for that.

Ivo and Undyne turn to see an old woman sitting in the corner of the room. The old woman is wearing a plain brown dress with a scarf around her neck. Her hair is red with streaks of gray. Her eyes are bright blue and she has a sharp gaze.

Woman: Outsiders are extremely rare around here.

She glares at the bartender.

Woman: Our friend here seems incapable of dealing with them.

She then turns back to the party.

Woman: If you need information you can talk with me.

The bartender bursts out.

Bartender: But they're not—!

Woman: Enough! I will deal with them.

The bartender turns away in a huff. Ivo and Undyne turn to the woman.

Woman: Take a drink. Tell me if you like it.

Undyne had completely forgotten about her drink. She is surprised to see a small corked bottle of milk with a purple label on its side. The label simple reads "Chateau Romani" and there is a small image of a cow's head.

Undyne: Did we just pay 400G for MILK?

Ivo seems similarly confused. The woman just smiles.

Woman: Please just try it. Take it all down in one chug!

She stares at the duo in anticipation. Undyne shrugs, uncorks the bottle, and chugs. Her eyes widen. It tastes absolutely amazing! It pours down her throat like smooth silk. It is sweet and creamy. Undyne is instantly filled with vigor. She feels like she could topple a mountain! The woman laughs.

Woman: That's what I was hoping to see! It's always fun to watch someone's first experience!

Ivo finishes his bottle and turns to the woman.

Ivo: Yes, it is quite good. But we are here for information. We have a very important mission to accomplish.

Woman: Don't we all? My name is Romani. What do you need to know?

Ivo: We need to get to Stone Tower Temple. Do you know where that is? I'm Ivo by the way.

Undyne: Undyne.

Romani shakes her head.

Romani: Why do you need to go to Stone Tower Temple? That place is cursed.

Ivo: That is none of your business. Can you tell us how to get there or not?

Romani: Oh I can tell you. Hell I'll even take you there myself. That is, if you'll help me out in return.

Ivo: And what if we just force it out of you hmmm?

He produces his gun and aims it straight at Romani.

Romani: Well, I don't think your companion here will let you.

Ivo turns his head to see Undyne with a spear pointed directly at his skull. She glares at him intently. Ivo lowers his weapon.

Ivo: Damn it Undyne. I wasn't going to kill her! Alright ma'am. What do you need us to do?

Romani: You are warriors, right?

Undyne nods her head.

Romani: There's a… problem that I need you to take care of at my ranch.

Ivo: What kind of problem?

Romani: I'll explain once we get there, come on.

She gets up and heads towards the door.

Romani: Don't worry. It's nothing you two shouldn't be able to handle.

Ivo and Undyne arrive at Romani Ranch. It's an open, hilly expanse of grass. There is a wooden gate at the ranch's entrance. A dirt path leads to a sizeable farmhouse next to a large barn. The ranch is a quick walk away from town. Romani ushers Ivo and Undyne into the farmhouse. The trio takes a seat at a wooden kitchen table. Romani produces a map of her property. She points to the barn on the map.

Romani: Tonight, at exactly 2:00am, my property is going to be attacked.

Undyne raises an eyebrow.

Undyne: How do you know that?

Romani: I just… do.

Undyne: Well who is attacking you? Am I going to be murdering people here?

Romani: No! No… they're not… people.

Undyne: Then what ARE they?

Romani stands and turns her back to the table.

Romani: I'm not entirely sure. They could be aliens… ghosts… I don't know! I had an… experience with them as a child. Now I can always tell when they are going to show up. They always try to steal the livestock. I have been lucky enough to find warriors in town willing to help.

Ivo: Is there any way to stop them permanently?

Romani returns to the table.

Romani: None that I can tell. A ball of light always appears in the sky. And then they just start appearing out of thin air in these areas.

She points to various open areas of her field.

Ivo: Has anyone tried destroying the ball of light?

Romani shakes her head.

Romani: I don't see how you could. It always stays high in the sky and only appears briefly at the start and end of their attack. Oh! I forgot to mention! They begin their assault promptly at 2:00am and promptly leave at 5:15am.

Ivo shoots Undyne a look and turns back to Romani.

Ivo: Ma'am I think we will be able to end your little invasion problem for good.

Romani lights up.

Romani: Really!? That would be incredible!

Ivo rises from his seat and heads towards the door.

Ivo: Yes, well if you'll excuse us. There's only a few hours until they arrive. We need to plan our attack. Undyne?

Ivo gestures towards the door. Undyne rises and accompanies him outside. Once they are alone Ivo tells Undyne his plan.

Ivo: Okay, I am going to take out the source of this problem. That ball of light in the sky. I surmise that it is their transportation. It's probably a ship of some kind, and I can shoot down a ship. He places a hand on his mech.

Undyne: What should I do then?

Ivo: I need you to defend this barn from the ground forces Romani described. Think you can handle that.

Undyne makes a fist.

Undyne: Of course!

Ivo puts on his goggles and sneers.

Ivo: Excellent! They arrive in 4 hours. Steel yourself until then!

Undyne shouts to Ivo.

Undyne: What time is it now!?

Undyne is in position in front of the barn. Ivo has decided to head to the center of the field, hopefully to be closer to the ball of light.

Ivo: Almost go time! Are you ready!?

Undyne: Of course I am!

An odd high-frequency sound rings out. Undyne generates two spears and assumes a battle stance. Suddenly a ball of light appears in the sky! A red targeting laser strikes the object. Ivo then screams at the top of his lungs.

Ivo: THERE IT IS! TARGET LOCKED! FIRE ALL WEAPONS!

Ivo opens fire from his laser cannon. Simultaneously two bays of missiles pop out from the mech. Tiny missiles fire at the object. Once the missiles make contact they violently explode. The sky is filled with raging flame.

Ivo: HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

When the explosions clear. The light is still floating there, seemingly unscathed! Ivo becomes enraged!

Ivo: THINK YOU'RE TOUGH HUH!?

Suddenly a large laser weapon pops from the front of Ivo's mech. Then the ball just disappears. Ivo shouts to Undyne.

Ivo: Undyne! I need this weapon to charge! I'll annihilate that thing when it makes its return trip! Defend the barn!

Suddenly the field is filled with strange creatures with bright glowing eyes. They have claws for hands. They float above the ground and steadily approach the barn. Undyne leaps into action. She begins dashing around the field destroying the invaders with one powerful slash. Undyne easily drives back the initial assault. But eventually new invaders start appearing. Two for each one that she defeats. Eventually it becomes too much for her to destroy them with melee attacks.

Undyne: Time to switch tactics.

Undyne retreats to the barn. She leaps onto the barn's roof. A sea of alien invaders is approaching the barn. Undyne holds her hands above her head. Using her power she summons a ring of spears that spray into the enemy ranks. Miraculously she is able to hold the invaders off. Hours pass. Fatigue hits Undyne in waves. Meanwhile Ivo's mech has been steadily charging a massive laser attack. A huge yellow ball of light has formed in front of Ivo's mech.

Ivo: Keep it up Undyne! It's almost time!

The ball of light returns in the sky. Ivo screams like a maniac.

Ivo: THIS TIME I'LL TURN YOU TO DUST!

He dramatically presses the fire button on his console. A titanic laser fires from his mech towards the ball of light. Ivo inspects his instruments.

Ivo: YES! Undyne it's working! The object is disintegrating!

The creatures, seemingly aware of the damage to their source start rushing towards Ivo. His moustache droops.

Ivo: Undyne! The Eggwalker can't do anything else while its firing this laser! Help me!

He leaps out of his mech with a machine gun and begins mowing down the invaders that he can, but it's only a matter of time until he is overwhelmed. Undyne takes a breath realizing she is no longer the target of the creatures. She is exhausted from fighting for so long. She closes her eyes, gathers herself, and leaps off the roof. She rushes through the sea of enemies like lightning and soon appears at Ivo's side out of breath. She uses the last of her strength to create one more spear. The duo stand back to back driving the invaders back. The ball of light in the sky begins taking evasive maneuvers, darting around in the sky.

Ivo: HAHAHAHAHAHA! YOU WON'T EVADE MY TARGETING ALGORITHMS!

The mech keeps the laser focused squarely on the object. The object is flying erratically in the sky. The angle of the laser becomes so unpredictable it begins mowing down some of the invaders. Undyne and Ivo dodge past the laser as it flails around wildly. Ivo takes a glance at the console in the mech.

Ivo: It's almost destroyed! Just a little more!

The object in the sky disappears in a burst of light. Just as it vanishes, the invading force disappears as well. The mech's laser ceases, the mech loses power and falls over. Ivo screams in victory!

Ivo: I DID IT! MY SUPERIOR INTELLECT WINS AGAIN! I'M UNSTOPPABLE! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

He fires a few shots into the air. Undyne is silent. Ivo turns to find her collapsed on the ground.

Ivo carries Undyne back to Romani's house. The teams spends one day recovering their strength. Romani is overjoyed and extremely grateful. She gives Ivo and Undyne a detailed map of the land of Termina. She also offers to lead them to the edge of Ikana Canyon, the area where Stone Tower Temple resides. The team readily accepts her offer and the party sets off for Ikana Canyon. Undyne rides in a horse-drawn carriage with Romani. Ivo follows behind them in his Eggwalker. Undyne decides to strike up a conversation with Romani during their trek.

Undyne: So, you mentioned in the Milk Bar that Stone Tower Temple is cursed. Can you tell me why?

Romani shakes her head.

Romani: I don't really know the details. All I know is that this place is the reason our land was abandoned by Goddesses.

Undyne: Who are the Goddesses?

Romani looks concerned.

Romani: I guess you're not from around here… so you wouldn't know. The Golden Goddesses are the creator deities of Termina. They're names are Din, Nayru, and Farore. The legend is that our ancestors created Stone Tower Temple to defy the Goddesses. The tower was used to create pagan deities, the giants. The giants were ascended mortals with power to rival the Goddesses. Because of this, the Goddesses were outraged and abandoned the land of Termina. They unleashed a demon to destroy the land. The giants did what they could to combat the demon but were not powerful enough to defeat it. Then, a fourth Goddess, our savior, the Goddess of Time appeared and assisted the giants. The demon was sealed away in Stone Tower Temple. For a long time there was peace and the people of Termina revered and worshiped the Goddess of Time and the Giants for liberating them.

Romani pauses.

Romani: Sorry this is probably a lot to take in. I can stop if you're bored.

She turns to Undyne and realizes that she has not been paying attention at all. She is staring at the surrounding landscape. Ivo chimes in. His mech has been walking alongside the carriage for the entire story.

Ivo: I'm still listening. Please continue.

Romani smiles at him and continues.

Romani: All that I have told you so far happened hundreds of years before I was born. This next part of the story happened when I was very young. Someone or something released the demon from Stone Tower Temple. Oh! I forgot to mention! The demon was sealed in a mask.

Ivo glances at Undyne's pack. Undyne is still spacing out.

Ivo: You don't say…

Romani: Yes! Masks are common in Termina's culture. Anyway, somehow a forest imp got a hold of that mask and he was possessed by the demon. The demon was able to increase its power and called down the moon to destroy Termina. Things seemed hopeless for Termina, but a hero appeared and defeated the demon. Rumor says that the hero appeared out of nowhere. Some think he was summoned by the Goddess of Time from some other land. No one knows where the mask is now.

Realization washes over Romani.

Romani: What exactly are you two planning to do at Stone Tower Temple?

Ivo dismisses the question tersely.

Ivo: Sightseeing obviously.

He pilots his mech back behind the carriage. Eventually the party reaches a river. On the other side of the river is a large cliff, about 50-feet high. There is a small wooden dock on their side of the river. It is difficult to see what's over the cliff's edge from the low vantage point on the other side of the river.

Romani: This is as far as I'll take you.

She looks around nervously.

Romani: I don't like this place. Thieves lurk in the shadows of this land. I'll be off.

Undyne wakes up from her daydream.

Undyne: WHAT!? Are we here?

Romani smiles at her.

Romani: Yes, we're here. I'm heading back home. Thank you for your help and good luck with your quest.

Undyne grins and hops off the carriage. She walks over to the river leaving Ivo and Romani alone. Romani's face turns serious, she addresses Ivo sternly.

Romani: Listen. I don't know what your goal here is. I know this land has some dark history, but the people here are good. We don't deserve the burden of our ancestors.

With that, she turns her carriage around and leaves.

Undyne stands on the dock and stares up at the high cliff of the other side of the river. Ivo approaches behind her in his mech.

Undyne: How the hell are we going to get up THERE!?

Ivo: Maybe I can overload my hover thrusters. If I were to do that, we would need to—

He stares up at the edge of the cliff. He starts to become panicked.

Ivo: Did you see that?

Undyne: See what?

Ivo points.

Ivo: There up on the cliff! I swear I thought I just saw—

He stops dead.

Ivo: No… how… why are you here?

Undyne has no clue what Ivo is talking about. She turns around and is shocked to find someone standing between her and Ivo on the dock. The figure has their back turned to Undyne. The stranger addresses Ivo directly.

Stranger: What's wrong Eggy? You don't look happy to see me.

His voice is snooty, sarcastic, and annoying. He turns around and faces Undyne.

Stranger: And who is this? I never took you for a ladies' man Eggy.

Ivo remains silent with a hopeless look on his face. The stranger is a small blue andromorphic hedgehog. The top of his head comes up to Undyne's chin. His legs and arms are lanky compared to his small torso. He has bright green eyes and a thin black nose that pops out of his face. His muzzle, chest, arms, and bare hands are tan contrasting the rest of his deep blue body. His head is large and six large spines pop out of the back. Small triangular ears poke out of the top of his head. Two large spines and a small tail pop out of his back. He sports a flowing white scarf and red shoes. The shoes come to a point at his toes and have a white stripe wrapping around them laterally. A yellow buckle is featured on the stripe on the outside of each shoe. He wears white socks that pop out of his shoes. His clothing is tattered and stained, like they have been used for ages. He has a shit-eating grin. He studies Undyne closely, like he's sizing her up. He addresses her boldly.

Stranger: So why are you working with this evil man? Don't you realize he's just going to betray you and steal that package once he gets the chance?

Undyne suddenly realizes who this is.

Undyne: You… you're the one who defeated Ivo in the past, aren't you?

The stranger's face lights up. He assumes a heroic stance.

Stranger: That's right! My name is Olgilvie Maurice Hedgehog, Savior of the planet Mobius.

Undyne: Well what are you doing here? Ivo and I are on a heroic mission.

Olgilvie scoffs.

Olgilvie: You don't know this guy like me. If I had a dollar for every time he claimed to "turn over a new leaf" I'd be a millionaire.

Ivo finally speaks up sounding extremely sincere

Ivo: It's true this time I swear!

Olgilvie vanishes and appears again standing on Ivo's mech right in front of him. He looks down at him menacingly.

Olgilvie: When are you going to get it? I will NEVER let you live down your sins. I'll keep my eye on you until the day I DIE.

This threat sets Undyne off.

Undyne: That isn't fair! Everyone deserves a second chance!

Olgilvie vanishes and appears again right in front of Undyne. He stares directly into her eyes.

Olgilvie: You don't know what he's done! What did he tell you!? He's enslaved people! Murdered innocents! He doesn't deserve an ounce of sympathy!

Undyne: You're wrong! I know from experience. People with the worst intentions and potential for evil can change!

Undyne suddenly feels immense pain on her face. It happens so quickly it dazes her for a moment. Once she regains her senses she sees Olgilvie with a fist raised! He must have punched her!

Olgilvie: How DARE you! You have no idea what he put my planet through! The only reason I don't end him right now is that I want him to live out the rest of his days swallowed in guilt for what he has done!

Undyne is silent for a moment. Suddenly she clutches the sides of Olgilvie's skull and slams her knee into his face. The impact is so hard and Olgilvie is so light that he flies off the dock and lands in the grassy area behind Ivo. Ivo begins panicking.

Ivo: Undyne you really shouldn't have done that!

Undyne ignores Ivo and leaps over his mech to face Olgilvie. Olgilvie is still laying on the ground. Eventually he slowly rises to his feet. The rivals face each other in the grassy field for a moment. It's a clear sunny day. The wind is blowing. The setting is idyllic. Suddenly Olgilvie vanishes and Undyne is assaulted by a flurry of punches and kicks all over her body. Her armor absorbs some of the blows but they are still quite painful. Undyne tries to fight back but Olgilvie is moving so fast she often cannot even see him. The moment she tries to deliver a blow Olgilvie has delivered several to her already. Suddenly Undyne's armor flies off of her in all directions. Reduced only to her clothing, the assault becomes unbearable. Eventually Undyne falls to her knees. Olgilvie's assault ends and he appears at the other end of the field, his back turned and his arms crossed.

Olgilvie: You don't stand a chance against me. Nobody does.

Undyne collapses to the ground. Her body racked with pain. After a moment, she shakily rises to her feet.

Ivo: Undyne! It's hopeless! Just beg for mercy!

Undyne ignores Ivo's plea.

Undyne: I can't keep up with him. I need to find some way to slow him down, but how?

In the silence of the moment, Undyne hears the flowing river behind her.

Undyne: That's it!

Undyne: Alright Olgilvie, it's clear I'm beat! I surrender.

Olgilvie turns around and looks disappointed.

Olgilvie: Really? Is that all you've got? I expected more from you Undyne, and I'm not usually wrong.

He appears standing on top of Undyne's head. Undyne can barely feel him up there. He really is quite light.

Olgilvie: Come on, don't you want to try some more? Can you change forms or something? Power up? Anything?

Undyne closes her eyes and focuses for a moment, preparing to execute her plan. In a flash, she grabs Olgilvie's legs on top of her head and simultaneously leaps backwards in the air towards the river.

Olgilvie: There we go I knew you…

He pauses and realizes what she's doing. He begins panicking, trying to break free of Undyne's grip, but Undyne's strength is superior. The rivals plummet into the river. Undyne is immediately shocked by how much heavier Olgilvie becomes in the water. It really didn't make any sense. Olgilvie was light as a feather outside the water but immediately when he became submerged he sank like an anchor. Undyne loses her grip on him and he tumbles down the river.

Undyne: Wait can he swim? Is he going to… D-DAMN IT!

She dives after him propelling herself downriver. Undyne in contrast to Olgilvie moves quickly and smoothly in the water. Quickly the short river empties into a bay. Olgilvie tumbles deep into the water. Undyne dives after him. She eventually reaches him in the deep water. Olgilvie is stuck at the bottom of the bay. He is attempting to make his way to the shore along the waterbed, but he is moving extremely slowly unable to build any speed at all. He is losing oxygen quickly, he begins panicking in vain and eventually just falls on his back in the sand. Undyne approaches him. She looks into his eyes and sees something she wasn't sure he was capable of: complete abject terror. He then falls unconscious. She positions herself under him and shoves him towards the shore with all of her might. Eventually she gets him to the shore and finds Ivo waiting there with medical equipment ready.

Ivo: Give him to me.

Undyne hesitates.

Ivo: TRUST me.

Undyne hands Olgilvie over to Ivo who immediately begins treating him. Eventually Olgilvie is stabilized. Undyne sits in the sand, watching the sunset over the bay. Ivo approaches her from behind.

Ivo: He's stabilized. He should wake in a few hours.

Ivo looks around.

Ivo: I suggest we make camp here for the night. It's been an… eventful day.

The party makes camp on the beach, on a small grassy patch with a couple of palm trees. They make a modest bonfire for light. The sky is clear. The moon and stars look lovely in the night sky. The moon is full, a clear white sphere in the sky. Ivo has drifted off to sleep and Olgilvie is still unconscious. Undyne is unable to fall asleep. She sits down on the ground facing the bay. Enjoying the stars over the water.

Undyne: It's moments like this when I can feel it. Alphys… I just know you're out there somewhere.

Undyne hears Olgilvie stirring. He slowly sits up. He looks around confused. Eventually he notices Undyne.

Olgilvie: You… I was… you saved me. Why did you do it? I only caused you trouble, I didn't deserve help from you.

Undyne shrugs.

Undyne: It was the right thing to do. I'm sure you would have done the same for me Mr. hero.

Olgilvie shakes his head and sighs.

Olgilvie: I used to save people in a similar way. Then Ivo gave up and left Mobius. Without him around things were so peaceful. There was no one around to save anymore. I didn't know what to do with myself. Some people wanted me to lead them but I just couldn't do it. Eventually I found out how Ivo traveled to Dunsparce and I followed him. Fighting him was all I knew, but he wasn't doing anything evil anymore! I've been stalking him for years waiting for him to slip but he won't!

They pair is silent for a moment. Eventually Undyne breaks the silence.

Undyne: You know, I once knew someone like Ivo. A human being traveled to the Underground, the land of monsters where my home is. This human had a soul thousands of times more powerful than any monster's soul. This means that the human had great potential for evil. Humans were the enemies of monsters since ancient times. I was tasked with capturing this human's soul by force. I did battle with this human, but I could not defeat them. Then to my shock, the human spared me. They never had any intention of doing me harm. They even showed up at my house to hang out! I couldn't believe it! I was told all my life that all humans were evil and couldn't be trusted, but this human was nothing but kind to me! There could be some alternate course of events in which this human was pure evil. The way I see it, that doesn't really matter. If someone is amicable to you, the right thing to do is accept them. It doesn't matter what they've done or what they could do in the future. That's the way I see things at least.

Olgilvie is silent for some time. Undyne turns to look at him and is shocked to see him weeping.

Olgilvie: Ivo once found out I was stalking him. He tried to make amends with me. I couldn't accept it! He doesn't deserve forgiveness! It had to have been another trick! Someone like him could never change!

He is quiet for a moment.

Olgilvie: What's happened to me? Undyne I lied to you earlier. The reason I haven't killed Ivo yet is that I just can't bring myself to do it!

Undyne: That just means a part of you thinks he can be redeemed. You just need to let this anger go.

Olgilvie is silent again.

Olgilvie: You're right of course. Thank you Undyne. I'll help you complete this quest of yours. Just do me a favor, and pretend we never had this conversation. Deal?

Undyne: That sounds good to me.

Soon the two of them fall asleep. Undyne drifts off listening to the lapping waves of the bay.

Ivo awakens first. He quietly begins tinkering with his mech as he waits for the others to wake up. Eventually Undyne awakens and speaks with him.

Ivo: So, how's the rodent doing? Did he stir last night?

Undyne: Yeah, he woke up and seems fine. We talked for a little bit, I think he wants to join us. Are you okay with that?

Ivo is quiet for a long time before answering.

Ivo: I suppose that will be okay. Provided it's what he wants.

Undyne nods.

Undyne: Good. I'll go see how he's doing.

She approaches Olgilvie who is sleeping like a log. The sun is out but he doesn't seem to notice. He's lying in a contorted position and snoring loudly. Undyne gently nudges him with her boot. He stirs.

Undyne: Get up, we're setting out.

Olgilvie groggily rises and nods. The two make their way over to Ivo. Once they are within speaking distance Ivo and Olgilvie lock eyes.

Olgilvie: Morning Eggy. I guess you were able to get your lard-ass moving after all.

Olgilvie speaks in a condescending tone. Ivo retorts.

Ivo: Look who's talking rodent! I've been up for ages, while you snooze away!

They stare at each other for a moment and Undyne wonders if she should break the silence. Ivo beats her to it.

Ivo: Ahem… well here is the plan.

He produces Romani's map and points to the Northern area of it.

Ivo: We are currently here at the Great Bay. We need to get back to Ikana Canyon so we can reach Stone Tower Temple and complete our quest. Luckily for us, this land is very condensed so we should reach Ikana quickly. Once we get there we need to find some way up the cliff that troubled us last time. Any questions?

Olgilvie raises his hand.

Olgilvie: Yes, how do we know you can read a map?

Ivo rolls his eyes.

Ivo: Let's just go.

The party sets off and reaches Ikana Canyon. Even with such a short journey, Olgilvie complains the entire time about them going too slowly. The party approaches the cliff shrouding the rest of Ikana Canyon from them.

Olgilvie: I'm telling you guys, I could have made it here in under a minute, no under ten seconds, no—

Undyne: DO YOU EVER SHUT UP!? WE'RE HERE NOW JUST STOP!

Olgilvie smirks.

Olgilvie: Undyne do you have a short temper? You remind me of someone else I know.

Undyne: I clearly don't have a short temper because I let you go on, and on, and on, for ages!

Olgilvie: Pssshaw you still yelled at me, that's not very nice at all.

Undyne: Listen wise guy why don't you make yourself useful and help me find the armor you threw off of me in our fight.

Olgilvie: Done!

Undyne blinks and then finds her entire suit of armor lying on the ground in front of her.

Undyne: Uh, thanks. Why don't you and Ivo find a way up that cliff while I suit up.

Olgilvie: Whatever, mom.

Olgilvie zips to the edge of the dock and stares up the cliff.

Olgilvie: Well, it's easy for me to get up there…

Olgilvie zips to the top of the cliff and yells down.

Olgilvie: But how are you two going to make it up?

Ivo: Like this! Undyne hop in.

Undyne squeezes into Ivo's mech beside him with a nervous look on her face.

Ivo: THRUSTERS OVERLOAD!

He slams down a lever. Suddenly the legs of the mech retract and two rocket thrusters begin propelling the mech into the air! The mech rises slowly and awkwardly, like it isn't designed to do this.

Undyne: Uhhhh… Ivo are we going to make it?

Ivo: Of course we are!

He hurriedly adjusts some levers.

Ivo: Okay, now we'll make it for sure!

The mech slowly scales the cliff and eventually makes it to the top. Once there though, the mech collapses in a mess.

Undyne: What happened?

Ivo: It's fine, just out of power.

Ivo flips a switch and a high-tech solar panel sprouts from the mech.

Ivo: It just needs some time to charge. Let's abandon it for now.

He reaches into the mech and begins pulling out weaponry.

Ivo: Once I'm armed, let's search for the Temple. According to the map, it should still be past this village.

The party sets off into Ikana and quickly finds what remains of a village. Everything is destroyed. The houses are nothing but rubble. One structure stands at the center of the village, but it looks like no one has lived in it for years. The terrain has become barren, dry, and rocky. What's more the village is filled with monsters! Mummies patrol the town moaning eerily. Olgilvie zips to one of the mummies.

Olgilvie: Hey there! We're looking for a temple or something. Can you give us directions?

Mummy: MMMMMMMMGGGGGGRRRRAAAAAGGGGGHHHH!

The mummy takes a slow, clumsy swing at Olgilvie which he easily dodges. He zips back to Undyne and Ivo.

Olgilvie: Well the natives are not very helpful.

Ivo: I'm not sure what's going on with this place but it isn't our problem. Let's move on.

The party moves past the dilapidated town and travels through a rock tunnel. On the other side of the tunnel is a barren open field and on the other side of the field is Stone Tower Temple. The tower extends far into the sky. It must be hundreds of stories tall. It's so tall that to top of the tower can't even be seen from the ground.

Undyne: It's MASSIVE! How could we not see it before now?

Ivo shrugs.

Ivo: It was likely constructed with the help of magic. Again, it's not my specialty, but it could be hidden by magic as well.

The party begins moving towards the tower, when all of the sudden Undyne hears a voice. It's extremely faint, Undyne can barely hear it.

Voice: Where are you going with my mask?

Undyne swivels her head but cannot determine the voice's source. Olgilvie notices her looking around.

Olgilvie: What? Did you hear something?

Undyne: You don't hear it? Someone spoke just now!

Suddenly a mysterious figure appears in front of the party. He seems to appear out of thin air. He is a small, skinny, strange-looking man. His hair is short, brown, and neatly parted. His garb is purple. He wears golden jewelry around his neck and wrists. The jewelry looks ancient, religious, and foreign. He wears purple shoes that curve up to a point at his toes. On his back is a monstrous pack. The pack is larger than he is. You can tell that it's filled to the brim. The outside of the pack is covered with various masks. It's seems like there was no more room in the pack, so the man started hanging masks on the outside of it for more storage. His eyes are squinted shut and he has a huge grin on his face. The grin is somehow terrifying. The expression is somehow fake, like he's wearing a mask to hide his true emotions. The grin also makes him seem unstable, like he could snap at any moment.

Mysterious Man: You have something I have been looking for.

His voice is calm and soothing. But even his voice seems to be a cover for something else, something much more sinister.

Mysterious Man: You have my mask. It's been such a long time. Will you please give it to me? I really want to see my mask again, please.

Undyne raises her guard. She really doesn't trust this guy.

Undyne: We are carrying something very evil back to Stone Tower Temple to seal it away. You need to get out of our way.

The man smiles wider.

Mysterious Man: Why yes of course! You need to seal it away! I can help you! If you'll just take my mask out of that box, we can make sure to properly seal it away!

Undyne holds her pack tightly.

Undyne: How do you know all this? Who are you?

Mysterious Man: I am a… collector of sorts. I trade in masks. I am known as the Happy Mask Salesman by some. I have so many wonderful masks in my collection.

He gestures towards his pack. His face turns serious.

Happy Mask Salesman: But that mask, the one you have, is the most wonderful mask of all.

Undyne: So you don't want to seal it away? You just want it for your collection?

He starts to become frantic.

Happy Mask Salesman: Oh no no no. Don't misunderstand me. We can seal it away together. Just please, please, take it out of that box!

Undyne: Look, that isn't happening! Why don't you get lost!

His face contorts, he opens his eyes which are solid white.

Happy Mask Salesman: JUST GIVE ME THE MASK! I'LL TAKE CARE OF IT I SWEAR!

Suddenly he is reaching into Undyne's pack. She is unable to stop him. He is moving in ways that don't make physical sense. He is reaching into her pack, but at the same time he somehow is still standing where he was before. She can't even feel him next to her. Ivo and Olgilvie leap in to action, but are unable to stop him.

Happy Mask Salesman: YOU CAN'T SEAL IT AWAY AGAIN! IT WAS SOOOOO HARD TO GET THE FIRST TIME!

He is shrieking. His voice is maniacal and insane. Eventually he returns to his position opposite the party with the box in hand. The party immediately runs forward to stop him, but they are too late. He smashes the lock in his hand and beholds what's inside.

Happy Mask Salesman: There you are! Oh how I have missed you! I knew someone would try to take you back here someday so I waited! I waited for you!

He holds the mask out for the party to see. The mask is heart-shaped and made of wood. It's painted purple with a rainbow of accent colors. The paint job is extensively ornate, with various lines and symbols decorating the mask's surface. There are spines jutting out of the sides of the mask. Eight spines jut out from the long straight sides of the heart, four for each side. On the top of the heart, two spines jut out pointing straight up. The spines glisten with a rainbow of colors. Two large terrifying yellow eyes poke out of the mask's face. The eyes seem to pierce right through you.

Happy Mask Salesman: See there's no danger! The mask is dormant now! Now I'll just take it and—

Suddenly a horrendous shriek pierces the air. In a flash the mask leaps out of the Happy Mask Salesman's hands straight towards Olgilvie. Before he can react, dark fleshy tentacles appear from the back of the mask and attach it to Olgilvie's face. Undyne immediately rushes to Olgilvie's aid and tries with all her might to pull the mask off of him. Ivo points a rifle at the Happy Mask Salesman.

Ivo: What the hell is wrong with you!? Why did you open the box!?

The Happy Mask Salesman is hysterical.

Happy Mask Salesman: NONONONONONONO! This wasn't supposed to happen!

Ivo: You need to start talking! What do we do!? How do we get it off of him!?

The Happy Mask Salesman's face drops.

Happy Mask Salesman: There's nothing we can do. She'll be angrier than ever now. What have I done?

With that he vanishes into thin air.

Ivo: Blast it all!

Ivo turns to Undyne to see that she has given up. Tears are running down her face. Olgilvie lies on the ground in a fetal position quivering. It's clear he is in immense pain.

Undyne: Ivo I can't get it off him! Wh-what do we do!?

Suddenly Olgilvie stops struggling and lies still. He slowly rises to his feet. His movements seem forced, like he isn't in control of himself. He stands there for a moment, with the lifeless mask on his face staring into the distance. Suddenly he speaks.

Olgilvie: This time I will not fail.

In a flash of dust, he is gone. Undyne collects herself and turns to Ivo.

Undyne: This is bad. VERY bad.

Undyne and Ivo quickly head back to Clock Town to see if they can find where Olgilvie went. They don't need to search for long. The town is in an uproar. People are panicking, quickly gathering their belongings and attempting to flee. The duo runs into Romani in town.

Romani: There you two are! I've been searching for you! We have to get out of here!

Undyne: Why? What's going on?

Romani's face turns white.

Romani: You haven't noticed?

Romani points at the sky. Undyne and Ivo look up. Undyne is shocked. The moon is huge! And even worse, a horrifying face has appeared on its surface. The face's expression is sinister and almost looks like it is in pain. It's a truly harrowing sight.

Undyne: W-what? How…?

Romani: It's falling. Just like before. Only this time it's WORSE.

Undyne looks closer and notices that the moon is indeed growing larger in the sky!

Ivo: It must be Olgilvie and that mask.

The moon is getting larger by the second. It doesn't seem like there's enough time to flee. Suddenly a loud sound echoes across the landscape. It's not really threatening, but it sounds large and imposing. Suddenly a similar sound rings out from another direction. Then a third call rings out and lastly a fourth. Then there is silence for a moment. The silence is broken by the ground quaking with immense force. The quakes follow a rhythm, almost like footsteps.

Undyne: WHAT THE HELL IS HAPPENING!

Ivo: Undyne it's them. It's the giants!

Undyne: The WHAT!?

Suddenly four huge red creatures come into view over the town's walls. The giants are massive, towering over the tallest mountain in view. They have round heads, completely black eyes, and green hair. Their skin is a salmon-red. Long gangly arms and legs sprout from the head of each giant. There are four, each identical in appearance. The moon is extremely close now. The giants leap into action. All four of them get under the moon and attempt to throw it back into the sky. It seems like they can do it!

Ivo: Incredible! Such power! Look at them go!

Then a sinister shriek echoes from the top of the clock tower in the center of town. Waves of dark energy erupt. Giant shadowy tentacles sprout from the tower and wrap around the moon. The tentacles are pulling the moon down! The giants are bucking under the force.

Undyne: Ivo! Olgilvie must be up there! We've got to stop him! The giants can't last much longer!

Ivo scoffs.

Ivo: How? That mask is too powerful! What can we possibly do? It has all of Olgilvie's abilities plus its own strength. It's unstoppable!

Undyne hangs her head.

Undyne: He's right. I couldn't even beat Olgilvie on his own… until I… THAT'S IT!

Undyne snaps her fingers.

Undyne: Do you still have your portal-maker-whatsit?

Ivo: You mean my Eggporter?

He reaches into his mech and pulls his device out. Undyne grins widely.

Undyne: Great. I have a plan.

Olgilvie is standing at the edge of the tower's roof. The cold, dead gaze of the mask staring into the distance where the giants are struggling against the plummeting moon. Undyne's voice breaks the silence.

Undyne: Olgilvie! You have to stop it! I don't know if you can hear me, but fight it!

Olgilvie slowly turns around. The dead eyes of the mask pierce Undyne. He speaks.

Olgilvie: Olgilvie isn't here. You address a higher being.

His voice has two layers. One is Olgilvie's voice speaking in an emotionless tone. The other layer is a high-pitched sinister tone. The second layer sounds evil, demonic.

Undyne: What are you? Let him go!

He cackles. The layered voice is bone-chilling.

Olgilvie: You are addressing Majora. A demon of destruction unleashed by the Goddesses to obliterate Termina.

Majora slowly raises an arm and points at Undyne.

Majora: But you are not from Termina, are you?

Undyne: No, I'm not.

Majora lowers her arm and cocks her head. The dead eyes of the mask still staring into the distance.

Majora: Then you are not my problem. I suggest you go back where you came from. I have no quarrel with you.

Undyne: That would mean leaving these people defenseless. I can't just do that.

Majora: These people are guilty. Their creators have abandoned them. I'm giving you a chance to walk away, I suggest you take it.

Undyne grins.

Undyne: Oh really? Well I think you're scared. You don't want me to fight you because you're scared I'll win. It's not like a demon to show mercy, am I right?

Majora straightens her gaze. She assumes a menacing pose, contorting one of her hands in front of the mask.

Majora: You'll find no mercy here. I'm merely saving myself the trouble of eliminating you. Mortals shouldn't mess with their betters, it doesn't end well for them.

Undyne: Well at least mortals can recognize a trap.

In a flash Majora's legs are wrapped and she is yanked backwards. She is shocked to find herself underwater and sinking fast.

Undyne: It worked Ivo!

Majora was yanked into a portal Ivo had been creating behind her while Undyne provided a distraction. Ivo used a special rope-gun he created. She was teleported to the middle of the Great Bay according to Undyne's plan.

Undyne: We have to follow them!

Undyne strips off her armor and leaps into the portal. She instantly feels herself speed up in the water. She swims downward rapidly hoping to find Majora sinking to the bottom of the bay. Eventually she descends far enough to find Olgilvie unconscious on the sea bed. The mask is nowhere to be found.

Undyne: Perfect! Just as I suspected! It left him! Now I've just got to get him to the shore!

Undyne struggles to shove Olgilvie's heavy body in the water just as she did before. Eventually she is able to get him to the shore. She can tell that he is alive, but unconscious. Ivo appears at her side in his mech.

Ivo: Came as quick as I could. Did it work?

Undyne nods.

Undyne: Yes it worked. Olgilvie is free, he's unconscious now.

Ivo: Where's the mask?

As if to answer his question. Undyne and Ivo watch something crawl out of the water onto the beach. It's the mask, moving across the ground using long fleshy tentacles sprouting from the mask's opposite end. Eventually the mask props itself up on its tentacles. It stands at an impressive height, the mask staring at Ivo and Undyne. It speaks, the dual-layered voice is gone. Only the high pitched sinister voice remains.

Majora: Congratulations, you've managed to free your friend. But it won't save you from the crashing moon.

Majora cackles triumphantly her laughter piercing the silent beach.

Majora: You never stood a chance! Mortals cannot hope to defeat a demon! Only the power of a God could save you now, and I don't see any here!

Ivo claps his hands.

Ivo: Of course! That's how it was done before! He had help!

He quickly turns to Undyne.

Ivo: I hate to ask this of you again, but I need some time.

Undyne: What's the plan?

Ivo: I'm going to summon a God.

Undyne's eyes widen.

Undyne: WHAT!?

Ivo: Trust me.

With that he hops out of his mech and begins spreading strange stones in a circle. Majora chuckles.

Majora: I almost want to let you finish your little summoning. I like a challenge.

Suddenly the mask starts convulsing. Undyne can hear Majora groaning in pain. The tentacles of the mask begin combining into humanoid limbs. Then a horrid head pops out of the top part of the mask. A fleshy humanoid demon stands before Undyne with the mask serving as the body's torso. The creature's face has an enraged expression, complete with an open mouth featuring jagged sharp teeth. The creature's face has empty holes where the eyes should be and instead features one large eye on its forehead. To complete the transformation, two long, flowing, whip-like tentacles sprout from the creature's wrists.

Majora: But I will not make that mistake again. You'll all die, here and now. Prepare to taste my wrath!

Undyne, wearing only clothing for defense, readies a spear and braces herself for battle. Then she is interrupted by a voice.

Olgilvie: Need some help?

Olgilvie appears at her side, his arms crossed and his eyes closed.

Undyne: You're—!

Olgilvie: Awake? Yes. I guess you really felt the need to drown me twice.

His face is covered with cuts and gashes from the mask adhering itself to him.

Olgilvie: Thanks. I guess I owe you one.

He shrugs.

Olgilvie: Or is it two now? I don't even know.

Majora flails a tentacle at Olgilvie which he easily evades.

Majora: Enough talk! You all die now!

Olgilvie: I'll take him up close. You hang back and pelt him with spears. Don't worry you won't hit me.

With that he vanishes and begins pelting Majora with a flurry of high speed punches and kicks.

Majora: Do you think this will stop me!? I feel nothing!

Undyne: Well see if you feel THIS!

Undyne raises her arms and produces an array of spears which she hurls at Majora. All of the spears hit their mark.

Majora: Nothing! This is folly!

Suddenly Undyne is gripped by fleshy tentacles that appear from dark portals all around her. She is quickly immobilized. Olgilvie zips to her aid, but Majora is primed for his movements. He too is quickly gripped by tentacles. Tentacles grip both of their necks and begin choking them to death.

Majora: This is what happens when you defy me!

Ivo then pierces the conflict with a scream.

Ivo: DONE! IT'S DONE!

The combatants swivel to Ivo to find him standing next to a circle of stones crackling with mystic energy.

Ivo: I SUMMON YOU! CHAOS, THE GOD OF DESTRUCTION!

The mystic energy running between the stones disappears. Majora's eye widens.

Majora: No! Not again!

Majora's tentacles drop Undyne and Olgilvie who both fall to the ground gasping for air. Majora's attention turns to Ivo who is quickly gripped by Majora's tentacles. The tentacles begin choking Ivo.

Majora: You worm! I won't fail again! I'll end you!

Ivo manages to speak.

Ivo: You're… too… late… he's… coming…

The tentacles grip harder. Undyne and Olgilvie leap into action but they are quickly knocked back by more tentacles.

Olgilvie: Stop! Let him go!

Majora turns his head to Olgilvie.

Majora: I don't know who or what he's summoned, but I get the feeling I'm going to be bested yet again. This time I'm taking you mortals with me.

Majora stares at Olgilvie with his singular eye as he chokes Ivo further.

Olgilvie: No!

Olgilvie and Undyne leap to help again but they are quickly gripped by tentacles and held back.

Majora: I want to see your faces when he dies!

Moments pass, Undyne and Olgilvie struggle against their restraints to no avail. Eventually Ivo's body falls limp. Ogilvie and Undyne both scream in anguish. Majora tilts his head.

Majora: So which one of you goes next?

The tentacles begin gripping Olgilvie's neck again. Just as Majora begins to choke Olgilvie, she looks down to see that a puddle of water has formed underneath her.

Majora: What is—?

Before she can finish her thought, she is plunged into the puddle beneath her. The tentacles drop Olgilvie and Undyne once again.

Undyne: What was THAT?!

Undyne turns and Olgilvie is gone. She swivels to where Ivo fell and Olgilvie is already there. Undyne slowly approaches.

Undyne: Is he—?

Olgilvie nods.

Olgilvie: He's gone. Majora broke his neck to finish him off.

Undyne touches Olgilvie's shoulder.

Undyne: There will be time to mourn later. Where has Majora gone?

Olgilvie: Chaos will take care of her.

Undyne: I'm sorry, are you FRIENDS with this apparent deity?

Olgilvie: Somewhat, look it's a long story. Please, I just, need a minute.

Olgilvie stands there staring at Ivo's corpse. Undyne can only imagine the thoughts running through his head. She gives him some space and turns toward the bay. She is shocked to find that a colossal storm has formed over the water. She sees twisters forming in the storm. She turns to the moon and sees that the dark tendrils forcing it down have vanished. The moon's horrifying face has disappeared too. The giants successfully hurl the moon back to its rightful place in the sky. The giants resound in triumph. They turn and walk away in four opposite directions until they vanish from view. She grips her head, it was a lot to take in.

Undyne: Is that it? Did we win? What about the—?

She sees the small wooden mask wash up on the shore, almost like it was pushed there purposely by the current. The mask's wood is damp. It seems totally harmless. Undyne blinks and then sees a figure standing over the mask. It's the mysterious man that they ran into in Ikana. She runs at him shouting.

Undyne: HEY! What are you DOING!?

Suddenly he appears right in front of her with the mask in hand. She has to abruptly stop to avoid running into him.

Undyne: You can't take that! This is all YOUR fault! Give it to me!

The Happy Mask Salesman produces a big smile and chuckles.

Happy Mask Salesman: You did it! Just like before, you beat her!

Undyne shakes her head.

Undyne: It seems harmless now, but that thing's still dangerous! I need to seal it in Stone Tower Temple right away!

Happy Mask Salesman: So it can be released again in a few thousand years by some power-mongering fool?

Undyne is silent.

Undyne: What are you? Why do you want that mask so badly?

The Happy Mask Salesman chuckles again.

Happy Mask Salesman: Hmm hmm hmm I told you I was a collector. Don't worry I can take care of this thing better than anyone else.

Undyne furrows her brow.

Undyne: Can't we just destroy it somehow? Do you know a way?

The Happy Mask Salesman's expression becomes sad and concerned.

Happy Mask Salesman: Destroy it? Why?

Undyne: It's evil! It does no good by existing!

Happy Mask Salesman: Just because something is evil, does that mean it has no right to exist?

Undyne pauses.

Undyne: Can you promise me you'll keep it from doing any harm?

The Happy Mask Salesman smiles.

Happy Mask Salesman: Of course! I will guard this mask better than any mortal ever could. That's a promise. It's what that boy should have done years ago. Tell him the mask is taken care of.

Undyne: Hold on, what do you mean?

She receives no answer. The man disappears into thin air, taking the mask with him. Undyne stands there dumbfounded. She stares into the lapping waves of the bay. The sun is beginning to rise, reflecting prettily off the water's surface.

Dunsparce is quiet as usual, the town's inhabitants are going about their daily business. Undyne sits under a large, sturdy tree outside of town. The tree is situated on a hill so she has a nice view of the sleepy town. She is enjoying the sunset checking the messages on her cell phone. With help from the town, she was able to get it to work cross-world. Her friends from the Underground all wish her well and understand the quest she has taken to find Alphys. Suddenly Olgilvie appears next to her standing with his arms crossed. His scarf flows wildly on the windy hilltop.

Undyne: Will you ever leave me alone?

Olgilvie shrugs.

Olgilvie: Not likely, I like to keep tabs on the people who can beat me in a fight. You never know when someone like you could decide to destroy an important town like this.

Undyne: You don't REALLY think I'd do that do you?

Olgilvie: Well I've seen other people change quite a bit.

He sighs.

Olgilvie: I still can't believe he's gone. After all this time, you would think I'd be happy. I finally don't have to worry about him, but I just feel… unfulfilled, empty.

Undyne: The Ivo I knew was an extraordinary person. I know he had a checkered past, but you did the right thing by giving him a chance. His quick thinking and resourcefulness saved our lives and all the people of Termina.

The duo is silent for a moment. The clouds in the sky turn a beautiful violet as the sun sets.

Undyne: What are you going to do now?

Olgilvie: I'm going to head home. There's some people I need to reconnect with.

He scratches his head.

Olgilvie: Some people who care about me, and are gonna be pretty pissed I've been gone so long. But I haven't forgotten about you. Check your phone. If you need me, I'll be around.

He disappears like the wind. Undyne glances at the old man's house.

Undyne: I guess it's time I paid him a visit.

Undyne approaches the humble house on the hill for a second time and knocks on the door. She is greeted by the old man's shouting voice.

Old Man: HYUH!? What!? Who is it!? At this hour!?

Undyne: It's Undyne, I'm back.

Undyne can hear the old man scrambling around inside. Eventually he opens the door.

Old Man: Well It's about time you showed up. I heard you were in town. Come in.

Undyne enters. There's a fire roaring even though it's perfectly warm outside. She takes a seat in an armchair like she did before and the old man does the same.

Old Man: So, is that evil safely sealed away?

Undyne: It won't do any more harm.

The old man eyes her suspiciously.

Old Man: Good to hear. It would be terrible if that evil were left on the loose. Don't you agree?

Undyne nods nervously.

Undyne: Yes, absolutely. Now about Alphys. How can I find her?

The old man sighs.

Old Man: Well, that depends entirely on you young lady. Let me take a look into your eyes.

Undyne's face contorts.

Undyne: First of all, EYE. Second, WHY you damn creep!?

The old man laughs.

Old Man: HYAH HA HA! It's nothing like that I assure you. Just let me take a look.

Undyne reluctantly allows the old man to place his hands on her face and take a long look into her remaining good eye. After a moment he backs off and smiles.

Old Man: You definitely have it child. You have a shot at finding your friend.

Undyne: What? What do I have?

Old Man: You have courage.

Undyne gets really angry.

Undyne: Of course I do! I've been a warrior for YEARS!

Old Man: You'd be surprised how many warriors lack courage.

Undyne: How does that help me!?

The old man places a hand on Undyne's shoulder.

Old Man: Listen carefully. Go to Moon's Rest. Talk to the bartender Elliot. Tell him you want to go to Nightopia and that old Christo sent you. He may be reluctant, but tell him you're looking for your lover Alphys. He'll come around.

Undyne is flustered, she blushes.

Undyne: I never said—

Christo: Please child, it's written all over your face. Just go, and good luck. You'll need it.

Undyne stands up.

Undyne: Alright, but this better work.

She turns toward the door. She turns her head before leaving.

Undyne: Thanks, Christo, sir. I appreciate your help.

Christo: Thanks for handling my problem. It was weighing on me for years. If you ever need any guidance you know where to find me.

Undyne leaves. She heads to the inn for the night.

Undyne: I'm getting closer I can feel it. I'll find you Alphys no matter what it takes.

THE END