Summary:
Frisk is startled to find that something or rather someone blocked Boss' attack. What is she supposed to do now? She is once again subjected to being a prisoner but able to traverse the main house no longer confined to the secret room. Papyrus has spared her for reasons unknown but how long will such a truce last? What is the Captain of the notorious Royal Guard hiding?
{DISCLAIMER: This chapter contains NOTHING bad whatsoever just fluff. Enjoy! Let me know what you think in the comments below as you all keep this stories lifeblood pumping! Also, check out .com for concept work and everything WTU.}
Welcome to the Underworld
{Log 2: Snowdin
Entry 14: The Torture Room?}
He watched the entire confrontation. One attack after the other she dodged never once switching to offense. She was always on the defense even when she was wounded. His brother never let up only confused at the point in which she made herself a thing of instant noodles. He was glad he made the last minute decision to throw those in there. Papyrus was so confused that he just waited and watched the strange human eat in peace. The battle continued with the same motif. His brother would provide a combo or singular attacks while she dodged and tried to strike up a conversation in which Papyrus would take the compliments and praise with pride. He could see his respect for her growing even if it was not abundantly clear.
When she hit the ground he felt himself take a step forward before he ended up standing in the direct path of his brother's weapon. He used his magic just in time to halt his swing starting to sweat from the exertion in crimson drops, "H...Hey, Boss wait ya wanna kill tha kid?" His hands were up as his brother yanked back raising an eye socket at him with his mouth pulled into a tight jagged line. All he could do was wait and watch every nuance in his brother's reactions, "B...Boss?"
*Papyrus is hesitant.
Papyrus closed his eye sockets letting the blade rest in the snow as he leaned on it staring at his brother, "Sans… What are you saying? Are you suggesting that I imprison the human?" He crossed his arms across his chest and kept his brow bone raised expectantly staring down his brother with his menacing stature, "The human is to be taken to the Capital to have their soul extracted dead or alive it does not matter though I must admit their skill, though far inferior to my own, is quite intriguing." The lanky skeleton almost cracked a small smile, "I always appreciate a challenge."
Sans turned his head to glance over his shoulder at the human laying in the snow at his feet. It was only a split second as he turned his attention back to brother, "Uh...well yeah I know that but uh…wouldn it be betta if we kept the human fer a bit? Yanno as leverage err somethin. Kid's pretty powerful could use em ta get Undyne then take em ta the king ya know?" He honestly had no idea what he was saying at this point. It was rambling that had no purpose but he was doing his best. He could see the gears in Papyrus' skull were turning as he let fall his poor excuse of a convincing argument. It was a rather impressive feat but Frisk had managed to leave a positive impression in the seemingly ruthless Captain.
The elder of the two continued to lean against his weapon scratching large red gloved fingertips under his chin in thought. He was looking off to the side with eye lights dimming to a soft glow rather than their blazing crimson. She could have sworn the red color flickered to white for a moment before it was gone, "Hmmm perhaps you are correct brother! It is much too pitiful of a creature to kill anyway. Very well we shall capture the human and use their ability to vanquish that treacherous fish once and for all. Then we shall bring them to King Asgore... but you are taking care of it until I deem otherwise." He turned to look at Frisk, "So human be grateful for my brother and I's mercy!" His eyes were locked with hers as he swung his ax over his shoulder to rest it against his collarbone once more, "Sans grab the human." He began to walk right past the two in the direction of the house.
*You have been captured by THE GREAT AND TERRIBLE PAPYRUS!
*and Sans
*You won?
*You earned 0 EXP and - gold
It worked? He was shocked that his incoherent rambling slew of excuses actually worked. That was not like Pap at all. His older brother would have demanded a deeper explanation to his logic but nope there he went scarf blowing dramatically in the flurry that surrounded the group. He looked down at Frisk wiping his forehead of the nervous sweat that had started to form there. She was so wide-eyed that he was afraid his sudden actions had broken her. Not even a moment passed before he called out to his brother, "Sure thing Boss!" He actually snapped his fingers in front of her face to try and pull her back to this plane of existence, "Good job there kiddo. Ya alright?" A pair of bony hands came to gently help the poor girl up. She still was looking at him in disbelief, "Wha? Somethin on ma face er somethin?" His grip on her was gentle as he could not let her roam free only to jump in surprise when his brothers commanding voice flew over the snow smacking into his nonexistent eardrums, SAAAAAAAAANS!" No time like the present as he walked her to the house as gingerly as possible this time through the front door. She was badly beaten up but that was something a warm magical meal would fix, "C...comin Boss!"
Now she was a true "prisoner" within the skeletons home as Sans nudged her to take off her boots. She ended up gasping for a moment staring upward at Papyrus as she nearly bumped into the skeleton, "At least the human has manners!" She could not help the gulp as she set her boots down gently next to the two other sets. The first one was Sans with its fluffy trim and golden embroidery. The second set sandwiching her own footwear was Boss' over the top embellished boots. One of them had fallen over only for her to see 'Boss' painted on the bottom of the sole in red. It was wearing thin but it was clearly there. Did he do that himself? What a dork. She timidly replied, "I think it's important to keep a clean house and it is a courtesy." Papyrus looked remarkably impressed by the comment gaining her a, "Well you have good taste human, unlike my lazy brother." He eyed Sans with a mild glare. It did not seem threatening or even mocking. It had a hint of playful annoyance in it more like that of a joke.
Sans just shrugged in response before he came to stand beside Papyrus with his hands now finding their way into the pockets of his shorts since he had removed his jacket when he walked in. It was Papyrus that spoke up first, "You see human you are quite lucky I have decided to spare you but of course, where are my own manners. This is my brother Sans you two have not quite met from what you said earlier." The way he spoke made her feel like he knew what she had said was a lie but she just nodded as Sans raised one of his hands with a toothy grin, "Yo." He had his arms folded across his chest, "You, human are free to move about as you please...for now... while I discuss something with my brother. . . Sans." He had the look about him that meant that the smaller of the two was potentially in big trouble.
The skeletons left her in the living area in which she had never once seen before. It had the same carpeting from the upstairs as it spanned the entire floor. A black plush couch in an L shape was situated directly in front of a plasma tv screen to the left. Papyrus or Boss, she was not exactly sure as to which name she should use, kept the house spotless. A large round coffee table sat in front of the couch with a few things set atop its glass surface. There were a few books, a newspaper of sorts, and a blueprint to what she assumed were the traps laid out in the depths of Snowdin Forest. A little teacup sat on one corner of the plans and wafted with a nice warm steam. There were no pictures on the walls or any ties to a family not like the upstairs hallway. She supposed the choice made sense if you were trying to hide certain things about yourself in a cruel society like this one. There were a couple of video game boxes and jewel cases layout around in which some sticky notes were attached to their glossy faces.
SANS PICK UP THESE FRIVOLOUS ITEMS IMMEDIATELY
Yeah, sure Boss
SANS I AM SERIOUS PUT THEM SOMEWHERE ELSE
Alright
SANS! I WANT THEM GONE NOW!
SERIOUSLY SANS! PICK IT UP!
kay boss.
SANS DON'T JUST PUT THEM IN A PILE!
Done.
SANS. YOU PUT THEM BACK TO HOW THEY WERE BEFORE. TO DISPLAY MY DISPLEASURE
The text moves onto another connected note
I HAVE INCLUDED A DEPICTION OF MY DISPLEASURE
Connected to the second note was the third note with a nicely drawn picture of an annoyed boss with googly eyes.
SANS DON"T ADD GOOGLY EYES TO MY PICTURE OF INTIMIDATION!
Alright, Alright sheesh.
If she had not encountered both of them in rather unpleasant ways in the beginning then she would have just thought of them as two dorky brothers. It was clear that the two were really just completely ridiculous when it came to their personal spaces. She took a seat on the edge of the couch waiting for the two to return only to lay down and stare at the ceiling. The events that had happened before still had her reeling from it all. She gently turned to her side piecing together everything. Boss was just about to end her with one fell swoop of his ax but Sans had stepped in front making up excuses, and not good ones at that. He had even stopped the attack in mid-swing. How much more could he prove himself after that? His decision to save her was unprompted and he could have been killed himself. Her eyes fell closed as she placed her hands over her face. How could she not believe him now? The answer was painfully obvious despite her reluctance. She sighed softly cursing herself for giving him yet another chance.
Sans looked up at Boss as he was pulled off to the side away from Frisk only to hear his brothers intimidating voice interrogating him, "Sans explain yourself." If he looked directly at Papyrus then he would have slipped. He just could not lie well to his brother. The elder knew this and grabbed the skeleton by the fabric of his ruby turtleneck sweater so they matched height. The younger looked like he was becoming a turtle as the fabric pulled up around his skull nearly hiding his face, "W...what do ya mean Pap?" Papyrus did not look amused as he leaned in closer, "You have met the human before. You were protecting the human. You do not think this warrants an explanation?" His eye sockets were narrowed dangerously.
Boss huffed in frustration as he awaited his brothers assumed to be inadequate excuse only to receive the opposite, "Pap. Look tha kids harmless like a little snow bunny. She ain't gonna hurt anyone trust me I tried ta get her ta attack but she's like a little-declawed kitten. We can't take er ta Asgore she won't have a chance." Sans laid it all out on the table not to mention how he actually felt about the human. The sudden confession forced his brother's eye sockets to widen before raising in confusion, "Sans are you telling me that this entire time you have been with the human? That you lied to me, brother?" At this point, he placed a gloved hand over his tired face before setting his younger brother to his feet. He was slumped over using the wall directly beside him to steady himself.
When he was gently set on the ground he looked away not happy that he would have to admit his deception, "I was afraid ya cut tha kid in two Pap. Call tha Guard. I didn want ta get ya involved. Kids been with me since comin inta town. Look, bro, I think ya should giver a chance. Just try." Papyrus removed his hand from his face revealing a frown, "YOU TRUSTED THIS HUMAN OVER YOUR OWN BROTHER!?" Sans had to calm him down and fast but he did not know how to. His hands shot up defensively as he took a step back, "Pap ya know I trust ya but yer head of tha Guard! Can't have ya be a fugitive." The sockets that were locked on his relaxed before they downturned giving marring the olders face with a kind of disappointment, "Am I such a poor brother that you do not wish to be straight with me. That you deliberately keep things from me? Lie and deceive me?" Sans could see that he was clenching his fist tightly causing the leather of his gloves to give off a small sound, "I WILL DETERMINE THIS CREATURES MISERABLE WORTH FOR MYSELF. IF THEY ARE USEFUL THEN I MAY RECONSIDER MY OPTIONS." The younger turned his head down toward his own sock clad skeletal feet, "G...got it, Boss."
Frisk heard the shouting and she knew it had to be on the topic of her. She was still dumbfounded by the fact she was still breathing. Her thoughts were much too brutally honest. The more she heard the conflict the more her conviction grew. Just as Boss had set down his brother and Sans was looking down she walked up to the two. She stood her ground and looked straight at both of them without a hint of fear or hesitation, "I have not been here long and I still don't understand this world but no one can truly bury their feelings. Not even you two. Boss, I know you care about Sans just as much as he, does you. You are brothers. That's why he never told you about me. It would ruin your reputation and Sans knows how important it is to you. Don't yell at him, please. If you want to be angry with someone blame me." Sans gave her a look that could have been classified as ARE YOU INSANE!? His left eye socket began to twitch as his brother towered above the small girl shrouding her in his shadow before squatting down to match her eye level voice steady, "And why is it that you care human? We are but monsters to you as you are a human to us. Your kindness will not save you here." He grumbled before looking away, "The only reason you are here is because of Sans and that I feel you have potential. I still don't know what to do with you." She smiled sadly, "I know and I understand."
Papyrus could not believe what he was witnessing as his crimson gaze fell on her again. He said nothing at first straightening and clearing his throat very similar to the way Sans had in the past, "Sans I think the human is broken. It insists that it cares for our well being. I do not understand it." Sans started to chuckle, "Like I said bro lika kitten." Papyrus raised a brow bone, "And does the kitten eat?" Sans raised a brow bone that mirrored his older brother, "Well yeah Pap course she eats." It was such an awkward conversation with the two talking back and forth between themselves as if she was not even present, "VERY WELL HUMAN YOU ARE ABOUT TO CONSUME SOMETHING SO INDESCRIBABLE PREPARED BY I THE GREAT PAPYRUS! NYEHEHEHE!" He stalked off leaving her with Sans in the meantime.
They both exchanged glances as pots and pans could be heard clattering in the kitchen off to the right, "Sans…" He turned to look at her once again stuck in that nonchalant posture with his hands resting lazily in his pockets, "Yeah kitten?" Her hand came to rest on his arm gently, "You…protected me. I… I'm sorry about what I said before. I didn't think that you could ever prove what you were saying and I." He made her pause as he placed a hand on her cheek, "Ya don't gotta explain." His hand lingered for a brief moment before pulling away, "Ya got Pap ta like ya." She was confused and surprised, "R...Really? I didn't think that I really made an impression." The skeleton only shook his head as a small smile pulled at the corner of his mouth, "Trust me dollface he likes ya. Yer here ain'tcha?"
She nodded gently at his response. That's right she was here still and very much alive though she was a little frightened by what his brother might have in store for her. It was already pretty late but they acted as if it was the middle of the day. A perk to being a monster she supposed. She was in a cozy home where she felt like she could just relax. Not to mention the promise of a home cooked meal made by Boss was causing her mouth to water. He truly had a talent. It was something she wished others knew about him but not now. She was their "prisoner" as Papyrus had mentioned before as her attention stayed on the skeleton next to her, Sans. He was just standing there with his eye sockets half closed and a lazy grin. It was so unlike him especially when he moved to rest on the couch putting his feet up on the coffee table. She just stood there for a moment before he patted the space next to him. As usual, she took the offer but only to realize that he scooted a little further away to give her space. What was he doing?
This was so jarring to her that she spoke up, "Sans what are you doing?" He had his eye sockets closed with the back of his skull resting on his arms. It was just a simple relaxed posture. It was weird other than their little gaming session she had never seen him more relaxed maybe her finally confronting Papyrus had eased his worries somewhat. He only cracked on eye socket open to look at her. He gave her a questioning look as if he was confused by her sudden question, "What da ya mean what am I doin? I'm relaxin." The sound of Boss' voice from the kitchen startled the two, "SANS IF I FIND YOUR FEET ON THAT TABLE!" The younger grumbled before removing carnation colored socks from the glass surface.
The whole situation made her chuckle softly if only moments like this would last. If only she would have more of them in her future. She kept her eyes closed before suddenly feeling a light flick on her forehead only to end up face to face with a chuckling Sans. At first, her heart nearly stopped he still kind of scared her. She had to blink a few times to clear the astonishment from her face, "Whatcha chucklin at huh?" She smiled softly, "You are such a dork." The comment must have confused him because the little lights within his eyes flickered for a moment. He pulled back and shook his head, "I ain't a dork." So he said, but the two brothers really were just silly siblings in her eyes. It was all because she had the opportunity to know them. The real them and the more she saw, the more potential good came to the surface. Things had changed in such a short time, though time was irrelevant here.
She pulled back from him just sitting quietly until Papyrus shouted once more from the kitchen, "SANS IT IS TIME TO EAT AND BRING THE PRISONER!" Sans just glanced her direction but there was really no need for him to grab her especially since she just got up on her own. He still worried about what his brother was planning to do with her. His brother would not kill her outright but that also left other more unsavory options. The more he thought about it the more it concerned him but why did he even care so much in the first place? His continual denial of just treating her like a human and nothing more was chipping away slowly. He already told her that he didn't mean to hurt her. The skeleton was not exactly living up to his ruthless reputation anymore and he knew why. Even Papyrus seemed more mellow like her kindness and her very being soothed their inner demons.
He stayed behind to watch her walk into the kitchen where Papyrus had prepared his usual lasagna setting one plate down for Sans before raising a brow bone at her. As the other brother took a seat Boss continued to glare at her before turning his attention on his brother, "SANS DO YOU NOT THINK IT WISE TO CHAIN THE HUMAN? THEY ARE NOT A GUEST...THEY ARE OUR PRISONER." The more menacing of the two flicked his eyes back toward Frisk who was starting to realize that Papyrus had no intention of setting her free. Fantastic . The next words that came from his skeletal mouth made her tense, "JUST THROW THEM INTO MY TORTURE ROOM BUT DON'T FORGET TO FEED IT." The way he looked at her when he said the words aloud but slow and with a hint of a smirk on his face. It made her gulp.
Frisk could feel the color draining from her face as those wicked crimson slit-like eyes nearly blazed in a kind of triumphant mirth at her …. stars. Boss was more terrifying than his younger brother and that was saying something. Papyrus had a torture room?! Of course, he did and she was about to be thrown into it. That cozy warm feeling she once had was replaced by an icy chill that traveled along her spine and then back down again. Sans had been halfway through eating before he just froze, "But uh bro...dont think that's really-" Boss turned his head to stare down at his brother, "YOU WHAT BROTHER? ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT THIS HUMAN AND WHAT I MAY DO TO IT?" He had to play it off but even he knew he was a horrible liar even more so than Frisk, "Nah bro I don't care what ya do with it but uh...think it's a little over kill ." Boss' eye socket twitched at the pun. He looked like he was going to explode before he grabbed a hold of Frisk's arm tightly.
She winced at the action as he forcefully dragged her to a section of the kitchen where the flooring opened upward to leave her standing at the edge of a staircase. One that receded into the ever creeping darkness. It slunk across the floorboards only giving her a few steps of visibility. Oh, this was terrifying. She did not want to go down there but Boss was insisting with a forceful jerk of her arm. She was afraid he was going to rip it from its socket with how harsh he was being. The planks creaked and groaned as they descended deeper and deeper into the darkness only to stop. She was unable to see anything but she could still feel it. The cold kiss of icy metal being snapped around her neck, wrists, and ankles. She was now entirely in chains. Her eyes darted back and forth with blue wavering in seas of white.
Once the only light source from above fell closed the lighting began to illuminate the space. They were sconces that flickered with a brightly colored orange and yellow flame. A flame that began to show her exactly what she was dealing with. The walls reminded her more of rock than brick and darkness appeared to penetrate every corner not touched by light. That was the least of her worries. As instruments of torture gleamed wickedly on every wall. He….he was going to use these on her!? She felt suddenly weak only to end up being shoved against one of the walls crumbled at its base. Boss was tall enough as is but with her sitting he was like a giant. Now she knew why he was called the Great and Terrible.
The distinct sound of a lock could be heard as he leaned down to shorten the distance between the two dangling the key to her salvation in front of her with a smirk, "MY BROTHER SEEMS TO THINK THAT YOU HAVE SOME VALUE...WE SHALL SEE. GET COMFORTABLE HUMAN. I WILL HAVE SANS BRING YOU SOMETHING TO EAT LATER." What was she supposed to say? What was she supposed to do? The skeleton just straightened before ascending the steps leaving her in a hellish nightmare dungeon. After the door shut she could hear voices upstairs only for it to suddenly vanish leaving her all alone.
The fires flickered for a while as they reflected back their malevolent flames in the metal lining the walls. It was like a medieval dungeon. So much for a happy ending . What was she thinking? Just when she thought things were alright this happened. If this place lived up to its namesake her lifeblood would soon be decorating the devices littering the stone. As time passed on she moved to curl her legs up into her chest resting her chin on them. She was cold, tired, and worst of all she could feel the darkness closing in. The flames began to die as the room she now sat filled with shadows. No . Her worst fears rose to the surface leaving her wide-eyed and shaking.
That isolation she had once felt began to consume her mind the darker the space became. Each second left her breathing labored and short. All she could do was place her hands on the cold stone as it began to surround her. No. No, please. She gripped her head tightly rocking back and forth unable to hold herself together. Her hands were shaking as she shook her head more violently than before screwing her eyes shut to block it all out, "N...no please...no…" Her shuddering form pulled in tighter as if she was trying to will herself to disappear. She couldn't breathe as she hyperventilated cowering in the darkness begging and pleading both internally and externally in small pathetic whimpers. Not another attack. The last one she had was with Sans when he grabbed her. This one was new though all the more violent.
All she could hear was the ringing of chains in her ears and the sound of creaking floorboards forced her to press firmly against the wall. The cold bit into her back but it was better than having Boss press some of those wicked instruments against her pale skin. She looked pathetic as she coward for her life half aware of the outside world and half stuck within the horror-laden maze of her own subconscious. She just barely heard her name as she shook her head with her entire body convulsing in dread. A skeletal hand caught her wrist only to feel the same weight on her opposite shoulder. They were trying to pull her away as her eyes flew open her whole body drenched in sweat from the distress.
His eyes glowed vibrantly in his sockets down here in the darkness in contrast to the lighting upstairs as she looked up at him. Well, more like through him. That horror had its claws deeply embedded in her as he tried to calm her down. It was Sans who Boss had promised would bring her something to eat. She kept hearing him saying her name but it was almost as if her eardrums had been subjected to a kind of concussive blast. It was muffled, distant, and felt like she was going to be sick. Her breathing was still erratic, "I told Pap not ta bring ya down here. Know how ya get in tha dark." What did he say? A few moments of the same reaction until she finally came to her senses speaking with trembling lips, "S...S…Sans?" Not exactly aware of what she was doing she tightly gripped onto the sleeve of his sweater still quaking from the mental Hell she had been subjected to.
She heard the soft clatter of a plate followed by the sound of chains falling to the cold stone around her. The noise reverberated against the walls causing her to grip his sleeve a little tighter. As the attack faded so did her energy not realizing just how tired she was. She did not want to sleep down here but there was little doubt in her mind that Boss would abandon her here. The only break she received was when Sans came to bring her something and he too would soon leave her alone. Wow, she never thought she would think that his presence was comforting. There really was something wrong with her. She could tell on his face that he did not want to just leave her there as he pulled away to stand, "Make sure ya eat dollface." Her sour stomach was keeping her from replenishing her energy only watching with lonely blue eyes as he once again disappeared upstairs.
Her eyes shifted to the plate of hot lasagna that sat in front of her and nearly cursing as her stomach gave away her need for food. She shifted to pick up the plate and eat her meal in silence. It was just as delicious as she remembered but not even the indescribable flavor could cheer her up. Once she was finished she set the plate off to the side only to curl up once more in an attempt to stay warm. Her jailer, take two, had essentially thrown her into their basement dungeon. It was freezing to the point that just a few degrees cooler and she would see her breath. She expected that she would not see Boss for a long while. She abruptly heard the distinct clatter of a mechanism moving.
At first, she assumed it was Sans sent to clean up dishes but when she saw those distinct boots making their way down the steps she froze. It was Boss who for all intensive purposes was walking her direction. There was one shackle still attached to her and that was the one around her neck. The same one he used to pull her by as he leaned down to snake his skeletal fingers through the shackle hooking his finger over the cold metal. She went from a cold wall to a cold table as her wrists were strapped down. Her eyes were wide as she shook trying to break free of its hold. What was he going to do to her?
She couldn't move her neck to see what the elder skeleton was doing but she heard the clang of metal upon metal as she attempted to. Her heart was racing as she struggled as much as she could. Her head was spinning slowly slipping back into a rerun of one of her first deaths. That ear bleeding sound of metal scraping against itself to sharpen the blade. A soft hum and a numbness that infected her limbs leaving her helpless. A spectator left to watch instruments of simple food preparation cut through her physical form. It was a macabre and horrifying deja vu.
The Captain returned only for her to realize something she had not before. He was no longer dressed in his armor and scarf combo. It was actually just casual clothing, well for him maybe. It looked rather fancy to her. It had to be more comfortable then what he was wearing before. He had on a white long sleeve button up shirt that had been rolled to his elbows and held back with a simple strip of fabric. At least she thought it was all white but it was apparently just the sleeves as the rest of the garment was a deep charcoal color. He wore one of those old fashion cravats like that of what a Victorian gentleman would wear that was deep ruby in color. Over the top was his vest that was a mahogany leather with charcoal side panels on both sides. A set of belting just followed the curve of his shoulder and silver buttons held the vest closed. They had little engravings of the delta rune on them. He sure was a snappy dresser. Last but not least he wore a pair of black slacks with white pinstripes running the length of his long legs. He kind of looked like a mobster. All he needed was the stereotypical fedora.
The closer he got to her face the more she tried to pull back with little success. She could see the deep claw-like scars that ran the length of his eye socket. The observation showed just how deep they actually were and how jagged as if the attacker dug in and took its time making such horrible marks. He had the same crimson discoloration under his eye sockets but it was not as vibrant as his brothers. The skeleton made no move to hurt her but rather just examined her kind of like what she was doing with him. He looked tired not as much as Sans granted but fatigued nonetheless. His voice was lower than she was used to as he spoke in a normal tone, "What did you do to my brother human?" She blinked a few times almost not understanding the question, "W...what? I….I didn't do anything."
He slammed his skeletal palm down forcefully next to her head causing her to wince out of fear alone. When his bone came in contact with the metal it made an ear-splitting scrape. Her eyes followed along his ulna and radius noticing distinct scars and lacerations littering the bone. He was leaning closer to her now to the point that all she did was stare into the deep onyx pits that made up his sockets. Ones that housed that bright ruby pupil. His voice was intimidatingly steady followed by a growl, "Tell me what you did to my brother." The poor human girl just shook her head shuddering, "N...nothing p...please I swear." Her throat was tight as she tried to gain some space between her and Boss.
Papyrus pulled back tapping his phalanges right next to her head. She shut her eyes taking a labored breath, "My brother is not one to go out of his way for anything...or anyone. You had him keeping you from me. He protected you… YOU MUST HAVE DONE SOMETHING! HE WOULD NEVER KEEP SOMETHING SO MONUMENTALLY IMPORTANT FROM ME!" Frisk just stared at him wide-eyed slowly shaking her head, "No...I Papyrus I promise. I just… spoke to him. That's all." She could hear him flexing his fingers as she spoke as if he was going to tear her to pieces with them in due time. He looked like he wanted to but he also looked hurt with those crimson eyes wavering and dulling in color. The red faded away leaving a vibrant white and as the color faded so too did his anger. He stood straight placing a hand over his face.
He looked so distressed as he nearly dug his fingers into his eye sockets gripping his face tightly shielding it from her. The only sound within the entirety of the damp dungeon-like room was that ever constant dripping noise. It just seemed to grow in volume until a pained voice cut through the monotony, "Why does he open up to you...and...not me?" Wait had Papyrus said that? He clearly did seeing as how his once tense posture was more relaxed removing this palm from his face, "You are just a human." That was why he was so upset? He was upset because Sans had kept her presence from him and continuously bent the truth to do it, "Papyrus?" She watched him maneuver his body so that his back was to her before looking over his shoulder, "What is it?"
She tried to move but she was still very much strapped down, "I know you're disappointed maybe even angry but he only did it so it wouldn't be trouble. You know all the stuff I said before. He cares about you and...well… I don't really know you well enough but I would like to." She gave him a sad almost sheepish smile which had him turning back around, "Why do you care, human?" Her reaction was to tilt her head in confusion to his inquiry, "Why do I care? I care about everyone. No one is perfect and we all mess up. Sure, I am scared. I...don't want to die or be tortured or anything like that but that doesn't change the fact that I see the good in all of you. I know you have been stuck in a world where feelings are weakness and that friendship is a liability but I see it. I have seen it in the other villagers of Snowdin, the monsters in The Ruins, and your brother. He cares a lot about his amazing older brother so why wouldn't I too?"
Those white eyes wavered in a mixture of disbelief and skepticism, "HUMAN, YOU OUGHT TO KNOW BY NOW THAT YOUR EMPATHY FOR THOSE THAT LIVE AROUND THE REST OF THE UNDERWORLD ONLY TELLS ME THAT IT IS MISPLACED. DESPITE WHAT YOU HAVE SEEN, I WOULD HAVE NO DOUBT THAT IT WOULD BE AN ENTIRELY DIFFERENT SCENARIO GIVEN THAT THERE IS A FORM OF LEVERAGE GIVEN TO THE CITIZENS HERE, AND THANKS TO MY LEADERSHIP AS HEAD OF THE ROYAL GUARD, I WOULD HAVE NO DOUBT THAT EVENTUALLY THOSE YOU WOULD MET WOULD HAVE DELIVERED YOU TO ME. IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME. IN THIS WORLD, HOPE HAS VERY MUCH DWINDLED AND AT THE END OF EVERYTHING, ONLY THOSE WHO HAVE KEPT THEIR WILLS AS HARD AS STEEL WILL COME OUT ON TOP. SURE, THERE WILL BE TIMES ONE CAN 'CARE' FOR ANOTHER, BUT REMEMBER THAT IN THE END, IT IS EVERY MONSTER FOR THEMSELVES. NOW THEN HUMAN, DARE YOU HAVE ANYTHING MORE TO SAY? THINK CAREFULLY AS YOUR WORDS DETERMINE WHAT I WILL DO WITH YOU NEXT."
Frisk just lay there processing the conversation. He made a grandiose speech about how wrong she was and though she did not want to drop names she thought back to Grillby. Everyone had told her to stay away from him, Doggo and Sans included, but he was the most kind to her. It just proved that once again everyone had more to them than initial appearances even Papyrus who had locked her in what he called The Torture Room continued to skirt around such an action. She was curious about how his eyes had shifted colors perhaps that was a factor? Right, she had to choose her words wisely that made sense. What was she supposed to say? That he was wrong? That would not go over well. She thought about it for a moment before speaking, "I understand all of that Papyrus. I do. I think that you all are hiding from each other. I know this world is the way it is but I have met so many monsters just trying to live their lives. They look up to you. They admire you. Praise you for your work here. You have given them peace of mind."
She closed her eyes debating whether or not her next words would end her. They fluttered open to stare into those white eye-like lights, "It makes me sad you are all like this. Papyrus you have amazing culinary skills. The food you prepare makes my taste buds sing. Your combat is so impressive the only reason I managed to dodge was because I was attempting some rather ludicrous moves. All those traps in Snowdin Forest were built by you. That is not an easy feat or oh! The fact you painted that bridge to look like wood. I was stunned. I would have never known!" She was not even playing off of his ego she was just honestly telling him her genuine thoughts.
His eye lights searched her face for any hint that she may be lying to him. But those blue eyes only seemed to show sincerity. Granted. She wasn't wrong in most of those regards. He already knew that. Though it was always nice to hear them from someone new. Even if she had done it before. Wait...that's right...during the battle, she had done the same thing. Was...was she trying to flirt her way out? "I do believe I already told you human that your flattery would not save you. Though I do appreciate your attention to the finer details." He taped his claw-like phalanges on the table before speaking again, "If, by chance, I do decide to let you go. Why should I? Aside from more of your attempts at flirting though I can see why one such as yourself would wish to try their luck with someone as great as me. I must warn you my standards are quite high and I doubt a human such as you can meet those standards."
Wait...what? He thought she was flirting with… oh, stars . She really hoped that Sans did not think that way. It would spell major trouble for her if she was not in quite the pickle right now already, "W...well you never know but uh… I was just giving genuine compliments. You know...give credit where credit is due? Y...you don't have to let me go necessarily but I would be grateful if I wasn't here or…" She gulped before continuing, "Tortured." It was called the torture room after all though torture dungeon would have been more accurate. The last place she wanted to be locked up in was here. It was dark and scary and her mind was just slowly devolving to that of an afraid child at this point.
"That's not a very convincing argument on your own behalf as to why I should let you out. Even Sans' pathetic excuse of using you against Undyne was better" What was this humans angle? Just act 'sweet' and 'kind' in hopes that others would do the same? Ha. What a joke. If someone was going to give her a crash course in how things worked down here it would be him. Yes, the current space was called the torture room but he honestly did not feel like it and besides, he could probably just leave her alone for five minutes and she would end up a scared mess again.
She knew as much but what was she supposed to do? Lie? A soft sigh slipped past her lips, "If it was so pathetic then why am I here and not out there?" It was a rather interesting question to pose though actually asking it was a little frightening. She had no idea how he would react to anything she said so she just was herself. That was all she really could do, "I just want to help. Honestly. I know that is a little confusing but it's true. I…. I don't really know what to say. Don't you want a better life than this? Aren't there things you aspire towards that aren't this brutal kill or be killed way. I know I see it. I have seen it in nearly everyone I have encountered." She just kept her eyes locked on him as she spoke. They may have been shots in the dark but she knew deep down she was right. If Boss really wanted to end her he would have especially since he just admitted that he did not believe in Sans earlier excuses.
He huffed lightly. A simple question that didn't have the simplest of answers, "You are here instead of being a red streak in the snow because my brother actually stood in the way. As I stated before he does not do such things for just anyone. There had to be a reason. A cause. We do not hide things from each other often...so to see him hide you from me. Then come up with a half-baked idea such as that… I knew something was off. I hate being lied to. He knows that. Yet he did it anyway. Multiple times. To my face." He looked away and crossed his arms as he reflected on his most recent conversations with Sans. Just how close had the human been from any of them? Where had Sans been hiding them? So many questions that he doubted his brother would answer.
He looked back over at the human as they spoke up again and lock eyes with him. Did they honestly think that they could change the Underworlds mentality so easily? So what if he had dreams outside the Royal Guard. It wasn't like they were going to happen any time soon just because some human happened to fall down and slip their way thru traps and attacks. What were they thinking they could befriend King Asgore and call him dad? Hah. What a joke. But….despite all of that...a part of his soul wanted to believe the human's words to let them try their fool's errand of helping. The inner conflict had Boss gripping his arm as he mulled the ideals and thoughts over, "If you do wish to help and undo what has been set down you will die. You are aware of this yes?" Little did Boss know but she had already died her fair share and then some.
It had taken her quite some time to get through to Sans and she automatically assumed that his elder brother would be the same if not harder. He sounded upset, clearly, as he was yelling at his younger brother earlier about hiding her from him. It was nice to see them so close even through a world like this one. She attempted to get a better look at him but that was difficult seeing as how she was currently indisposed via chains. The comment had her nodding slowly, "Yes...I...I know but if the prestigious Captain of the Royal Guard believes in me then I can do anything!" Ok, now she was starting to feel like he was unintentionally flirting. A small smile pulled up on her face as she had a spark of something in her blue eyes that appeared for a moment before vanishing as quickly as it had come.
He gave a slight sound that was reminiscent of a failed cover-up of a snicker in the form of a sigh. This human...they really wouldn't give up, would they? He walked back over so they could easily see him again, "Nyeheh a boost of confidence from the prospect of having me giving you a nod of support is a natural given. Fine then human. If you are so insistent on facing your imminent demise like you faced my attacks then I suppose I can unchain you. Just know that if you do manage to get yourself killed I will not prevent it. This world is unforgiving. Even if you are determined to forgive it. Repeatedly. Do you understand?" He watched their expression closely as if to try and spot any break in their confidence in carrying out their self-imposed mission of kindness helpfulness and whatever the fuck else it was they wanted to do.
Frisk noted the sound but stayed oblivious to its meaning. He did enjoy his praise that was for sure. It was difficult to tell just what he was thinking when he walked back toward her. He actually surprised her when he laughed followed by an affirmation that he was trusting her. A feeling grew in her chest. The same spark that she had before flickered within her ribcage each time that trust grew. She could tell he was struggling with this idea as it went against his orders but those white eyelights burned with belief in what she was saying. Her gaze never wavered, "Yes I do. I have always known. It is just something I need to do. Something I want to do." Her eyes fell closed as she continued to smile, "I can see why Sans speaks so highly of you Papyrus."
This human...it was almost inspiring how strong it held onto what it wished to do. Even in the face of death. He could respect that. He had a feeling that even if he did something to her she would still hold onto her beliefs. He undid the chains and allowed her to sit up before taking a step back and crossing his arms. Stars. It hadn't even been a full day and here he was. Letting the one thing he had sworn to capture go. "Don't make me regret this decision human. Or I will find you and make you wish you had never fallen down here."
She rubbed at her sore wrists thankfully as she watched him take a step back. He still had that conflicted expression etched into his scared face but she could tell that she had convinced him of her sincerity. Her fingers raised to the sky to cat stretch her way out of the stiffness she endured before stretching her legs as well. He did not look all that menacing anymore though his stature was vastly different than hers. Every time she spoke she had to look up at him even from a normal distance. She had begun to rock back and forth on the balls of her feet with a huge grin that stretched the length of her lips, "Thank you Papyrus. Oh, I don't know it is not so bad here." He had set her free but she still desired t to know more about him. She would no doubt shock Sans that she had convinced his seemingly ruthless older brother to trust in her judgment. Maybe she really could help them in more ways than one, "I won't! I promise I would be really sad if I disappointed The Great and Terrible Papyrus." A small chuckle escaped her as she looked up at him.
Now that she was standing he could tell just how small she was. She was slightly shorter than Sans and even though she had eaten she did still seem on the light side and that was coming from a monster who was nothing but bones, "Not so bad?" He actually snickered at her comment highly amused, "Hardly. You have even said you have seen how things are here and wish to change them." He would have called it a contradiction but he could feel her conviction. Papyrus held up a hand as if to stop her but his expression held a slight smile on the edges of his jagged mouth, "You may simply refer to me as Papyrus or Boss if you wish." As much as he liked his title even he knew it could be a mouthful to say, and she had made a point of saying it multiple times in the duration of their little conversation.
Frisk was rather small even by human standards but that was due to her less than fortunate upbringing. If you could even consider her youth an upbringing at all. At his snicker, she tilted her head with a sad smile, "Life is about perspective and sometimes we don't see it as clearly as we should." She never made any mention of her own past but after falling into this world saturated with monsters and magic one thing was clear, that she could make a difference here. The world above was far from redemption but the monsters here genuinely wanted something better but had chosen a darker path. Even then her conversations with the townspeople of Snowdin had enlightened her to their own plight. One in which Papyrus actively sought to eradicate and assemble a corner of decent living for his brother, himself, and others. She was surprised that he was giving her permission to call him by his name rather than the title but she excitedly took the gesture and extended her hand out to him, granted he would have to bend down to reach and take hold of it, "Howdy Papyrus my name is Frisk." Her heart was so filled with a newfound joy about this whole situation that she was practically beaming.
He bent down slightly and shook her tiny hand with his large one, "Hello Frisk." He rose from his place to return to a thoughtful pose, "Howdy...that reminds me of a friend. I haven't seen them in some time." The thought was quickly dismissed after a bit before he shrugged it off. Wherever his friend was he was pretty sure they were just fine. They just had to be, unless they got crushed or something. Maybe... But what were the chances of that happening? He scanned the room with squinted eye sockets before his jagged mouth pulled into a mild frown. He turned his attention on the human, "How well do you do with keeping secrets? I already know you cannot lie to save your life. Quite literally." His duty to his people and the King had been changed just with their encounter. Had Sans fallen prey to the same thing?
She realized something different about the way that he shook her hand compared to his brother. His fingers were more rigid and rough, unlike Sans that were more smooth and soft in a way. It was a difficult thing to think about let alone explain but the lacerations in the bone along his arms were something that she did note. She was not going to ask but the sight was saddening. It would explain why he wore those over the top spiked crimson gloves. They were all hiding something. Papyrus was no exception whether it be physical or emotional repression. His mention of a friend that used the same kind of greeting she just had was curious but he seemed to brush it off. Huh? The thought hurt her in some way she was unable to place as a flash of emerald crossed her mind, "Oh! I had a friend that used to say stuff like that too. I miss them but yes I can keep a secret. I promise!"
Papyrus squinted his eye sockets at her before rolling his eye lights to the side, "hmm." His gaze shifted back to her as he tapped his chin as if debating if that was a worthy agreement on their secrecy. The response seemed to appease the tall skeleton as he motioned her over to where he was standing. It was strange but he stopped in front of one of the stone walls examine it closely occasionally looking at the human, "Fine then. Come here huma- . . . Frisk." His phalanges laced through one of the metal sconces adorning the length of the room. It was the only source of light save for the trap door that led down into the space. He gave one of them a sharp pull and in true supervillain secret hideout fashion the wall and ground they were on rotated. The sudden action deposited them into another area.
Frisk just kept her head tilted to the side like a curious kitten as she watched him closely. He seemed fine as he rested his long bony fingers on the metalwork of one of the torches. She did not hesitate to do as he asked since he did it so casually, "huh?" She stood beside him looking up, "Yes?" He was going to show her something? Something he kept a secret she assumed just from his previous question. The skeleton did not utter other word but instead pulled down on one of the fixtures. She watched it give way only for the sound of some kind of mechanism fill the room. Once on the opposite side, she opened her eyes. She half expected it to be some kind of adventure or fantasy trap. Instead what lay on the other side left her confused, "B….Boss…"
What is this?
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