...Oh geez. The plot is back. How very nice.

And, uh...things happen here. And it's a thing that's gonna make a few of you go 'W-What? Why?' And a couple of you go 'Wow, that's actually pretty cool!' And a couple of you might just be like '...Huh. Alright then.' Maybe two out of three, or maybe all at once. Or none...I dunno. I'm just gonna keep on goin'.

Anyway, plot is back, and a couple things may be brought to light with the events that happen within it. It may not make any sense when you read over it now. But give it a chance. A lot of things are possible in a world of of monsters and magic, y'know. In fact, two certain concepts this arc introduces will have a major influence on how some future major-and even minor-events in this story will play out as it goes on.

Quick warning...a few of our precious characters are in for quite a bad time.

Alphys: ...I think I just felt a chill...it's probably nothing...

Chapter Start!

(?)

Mettaton didn't know how long he was powered down, but it was obviously for a very long time. His optics slowly cme back online as he tried to scan the room he was placed in. It seemed to be some sort of lab. There was technical equipment placed on a table next to him, and a brigh light was shining right above him. At first he didn't know where he could be, and wondered where he was for a few moments...until a much more pressing matter came forward.

BLOOKY! SHYREN!

Panic rising within him, he tried to move. But found hismelf unable to. Not only was he restrained to a table via magic bolts, the table was magnetic for good measure. He was well and truly trapped. It was then that he noticed that he was also badly damaged. Scratches all over him, colors are less glamorous than before, he could swear he was missing pieces of his arm...what happened to him...?

"Ah. You're awake. I thought we had lost you there. You know, this would have been a lot smoother if you had simply iven yourself up. But no, you had to cause a ruckus just to give your friends time to escape." Mettaton lifted his head to see someone standing in the back of the room, shrouded in black. He narrowed his eyes.

"Did you find them...?"

"No, not yet. But they will be found soon." The figure said with a professional tone. "Enough about them, I'm more interested in you."

"I tend to get that a lot." The sarcasm was noted, yet ignored.

"I must say, you are a very fascinating specimen. You seem to be a monster, yet you are also a cyborg. Magic and Technology together simultaneously...someone pulled it off. Whoever your creator is, is a genius leagues above most scientists in this world. Perhaps the Royal Scientist...?"

"She's quite brilliant, alright." The more Mettaton could get this guy talking, the more info he could get.

"Oh, the scientist is a female? Even better. Women are so underappreciated sometimes, it gets quite depressing." The voice sounded genuine about this statement, lowering his head with a sigh. "It's a shame that the humans of this land have ordered for her death."

...That didn't sound good.

"TELL THEM TO STAY AWAY FROM HER!" Mettaton shouted, struggling with all his might against his restraints. But it was no use. "WHOEVER ORDERED THIS, TELL THEM TO CALL IT OFF, RIGHT NOW!"

"I'm afraid I can't do that. It's out of my paws. I do not have that level of authority here." Was the calm, yet saddened response. "It's truly a shame. You are one of the most adanced pieces of technology in the world...and you're also potentially the most dangerous. That's why they ordered for her death, for being too smart. Humans, I swear..." He shook his head slowly. "A fellow scientist of her caliber...we might have even become friends...but it can't be helped. Don't worry though, I'll take care of you in her stead." The man slowly approached Mettaton...and the latter was shocked once he stepped into the light. He could see black scales all over, and a long thin yet powerful tail.

"You...you're not human...?!"

"A fellow monster, just like you. Forgive me for repeating myself, but the mere idea of a being like you, magic and technologcial advances resulting in a specimen such as yourself...and you seem to have a function specifically for killing humans. Sure, I can't use that since some of my superiors are humans, but still interesting. Yes, very fascinating." He frowned as he slowly reached a paw out towards Mettaton's face. "Unfortunately for your creator...you belong to me now."

Mettaton felt the darkness claim him once again...

(?)

Alphys was standing before the abyss that was within the Garbage Dump, staring down into it with her glasses shining an ominous white and her expression holding no emotion at all. She's been in deep thought for a while now, contemplating whether she should or shouldn't. Last time she tried to do so, Undyne's unintential but warm company kept her from going through with it, and she was always grateful for that. But now...now she was gone. And she had to die in a manner such as that one...she never knew she would...she never knew she could...

"Poor Alphys...nothing ever seems to work out in your favor, huh?" Flowey slowly rose from the ground, smiling cruelly towards her. "For some reason the universe is dead set on making sure that you fail every step of the way. For as long as you're the Royal Scientist, things are bound to go wrong~"

"..."

"Not feeling very chatty, huh?"

'What do you want?"

"I'm simply here to help you make a decision, since you seem to have a hard time doing so yourself. You've royally screwed up in so many ways that it's almost laughable. And I do appreciate the art of dark humor." He raised a vine around her and leaned close to her head. "The Amalgamates are nothing but failed experiments...but that's a part of the gig, right? You can't always expect successful results in the science business. It's one thing to fail. It's entirely different that you've failed so badly and not step up and accept it. That's just cowardly. And then there's Undyne."

Alphys flinched upon the name, though her eyes didn't reappear behind her glasses. "What about her...?"

"How is it that the smartest monster in the Underground wasn't able to figure out that one of her own was capable of naturally emitting Determination, something no other monster is capable of aside from Boss Monsters? Seems to be a sign of incompetence, and you're known to be quite incompetent at important points. Perhaps you could have stopped her. Perhaps you could have done something. But nah! You simply sat in front of your precious computers and watched her die. it must really suck, watching the one you love die so painfully, and have it very closely relate to your precious experiments. Don't you agree...?"

"Tch..."

"Speaking of experiments, you have me...one of your darkest creations...and quite possibly the most impressive feat of you doing something both horribly right and horribly wrong at the exact. Same. Time. Flowey the Flower." His face shifted into a face that struck her core. His face shifted into that of Asriel Dreemurr. "I am your greatest sin. I'm also your greatest success in that line of research! Feelin' proud of that, Alphys?"

She slowly hugged herself, lowered her head, and began trembling.

"How does it feel, Alphys? Knowing that you've messed up the Dreemurr's dynamic even further than it already was?"

"...I didn't know..."

"Hm?"

"I didn't...I really didn't...how was I supposed to know that the ONE flower I picked would have Asriel's dust on it! There's no way I could have known that!"

"Ah ah ah. No excuses~" The flower shook his head. "Alphys. Both your carelessness and your cowardice has led to drastic consequences, both for the Underground and for your loved ones. By all counts, you've failed everyone you hold dear. Not exactly something to be proud of."

"..."

"Face it, Alphys. You're done. The one you love is dead, and the Underground is suffering due to your inaction. Don't you think it's time for you to just end it all and get it over with? There's no point in going on. You migght as well just give up now."

Alphys didn't want to. She thought it would desecrate Undyne's sacrifice. But still...she couldn't bring herself to hope anymore. All her friends, and all her dreams...they've all come crashing down. She couldn't...

"...Just one step forward, Alphys. That's all it'll take." Flowey smirked, still wearing Asriel's face. "You took away my peace, so it's fair that you never find peace either, right?"

...Alphys slowly took that one step. And...

(Morning)

Alphys found herself awake and panting for breath. Her breathing at the moment was absolutely erratic due to the shock of the nightmare catching her completely was in complete hysterics, placing her paws over her head and shaking her head while she tried to muffle horrified shout. She was only half-successful at supressing it. It was still enough for Undyne, who was sleeping right next to her, to wake up immediately.

"Alphys?! Alphys?!" Undyne said aloud as she grabed Alphys by the shoulders to keep her from struggling.

The panicked lizard forced herself to stop shaking as she gazed at Undyne. The mermaid was staring at her with immense worry filling her right eye, as the other that was usually covered by her eye patch was blocked by her beautiful crimson hair. "U...Undyne..."

"Yeah. It's me. I'm here." With no further delay, Alphys buried herself in her lover's embrace. Undyne had no trouble returning this fully and supportively, hugging her nice and tight. She rested her chin atop her head and soothingly rubbed her back as the yellow lizard nuzzled her bosom for comfort. She looked at the shivering lizard in her arms. "Alph...what happeneed?"

"...Nightmare..."

"I see...do you wanna talk about it?" Undyne held her closely as Alphys recounted the details of her nightmare while hanging onto her like a shaking leaf. She occasionally rubbed her back in small circles as she tried to reassure her that she was alright now. She had to remember that trauma such as hers, despite how well she was doing now, was not so easily forgotten. She knows this just by observing the Dreemurrs. Especially Asriel and Asgore. Once she finished, Undyne sighed whle hugging her tighter. "Do you want me to stay home for the day? It won't be a problem for me to just pick up the slack tomorrow."

At that, Alphys forced herself to shake her head. "N-no...you don't need to do that. I'll be fine, I promise. I just...need some time to catch my breath and calm myself down, is all. Like you said, I can't let something like this beat me." She laughed nervously while rubbing her neck. "Geno Alphys will probably beat it out of me. She says she's the only Alphys of this timeline who gets to be somewhat cynical. I should be the idealistic one, she says."

"I like her advice, even though I'd like both of you to keep wearing enuine bright smiles." Undyne nodded. "Alright then. How about you get yourself occupied to take it off your mind, while I'm getting ready for work? Remember, even though I might not always e very good at it, I'm always up for helping you through this stuff."

"...Alright." Alphys nodded. She leaned up to give Undyne a kiss, in which she was more than happy to provide in return. They separated as Undyne slides out of bed and prepares for her day, while Alphys prepared as well, willing to shake off her nightmare for Undyne's sake.

Alphys may need to go out and take her mind off this stuff. She has no intentions of bumming herself out.

She got herself dressed fairly quickly. Trying to keep herself fairly casual, she chose to pick out her more casual clothing. Casual as in a white hoodie with cute little cat ears, and a blue denim skirt. The strings on said hoodie were shaped like paws with paw prints on the sleeves, and the top of said hoodie had green eyes on them. Basically a neko hoodie.

Nice.

Alphys then took the time to look herself in the mirror, taking in her reflection, how she looked and how she tended to feel about it. She pulled the hoodie hover her head and adjusted her glasses a bit to get an even clearer view. Even after six years together, sometimes her more insecure side questions what Undyne sees in her appearance. It tends to escape her mind here and there that Undyne considers her 'pleasantly plump'. Regardless, she assured Undyne she would be alright, and she truly meant it.

She smiled as she pumped her fists. "Right! I'm not going to let negativity overtake me today! I'm going to have a great day just like I always have! And for Undyne's sake, I'll be doing it with a smile! She deserves to be at ease while she's not watching me!" She narrowed her eyes. Nervous, but filled with Determnination. "Now Alphys...it's time to psyche yourself up for a new day..." Alphys further pulled her neko hoodie over her head and waved her paws. "You can win! You feel great! You! Can! Do! This! Nyyyya-"

"Alphys..."

The lizard froze mid-pose as she slowly turned to the entrance of the room. Undyne was dressed in her uniform and came back to say farewell to Alphys...only to see her posing in front of the mirror with her neko hoodie. She currently had no words, and neither did Alphys. She could only sweatdrop, smile nervously, and weakly flex her paws a bit. "N-Nya...Nya?~"

Undyne was suddenly on her knees, pulling Alphys into a hug. "...You...are so...damn...kawaii...I can't resist...nor do I want to..." She mumbled, nuzzling her cheek. "I also don't wanna resist kissing you...so I won't." Undyne soon proceeded to kiss Alphys all over her cheeks, her strong grip making it impossible for Alphys to put up a meaningful struggle...not that she wanted to. If anything, she simply bursts into laughter after holding in the initial giggles and snickers.

After Undyne left saying goodbye, Alphys placed her paws in her hoodie pockets as she made her way around town on her own. There are times like these in which she's decided to venture on her own terms since Undyne wouldn't be at the house for a decent portion of the day, while always coming home early enough for them to spend plenty of time together. Since Geno Alphys usually works in her place so that her counterpart can relax properly with Undyne. Though Alphys has made a point to try and discover what to do. She doesn't want to trouble them any more than she believes she is, so she's trying her best to think of a way to contribute. It couldn't hurt, right? She wants to be able to help out just like everyone else. A happy ending has to be maintained by everyone involved, after all. She really wanted to do much more.

It would be great if they could all survive a current crisis without messing with time-space. No one wanted to push the Dreemurr Trio to disrupt the timeline again for their sake. They're the ones who suffered the most from this. Asking more from them in that regard would increase their guilt. They, along with everyone else, managed to better themselves, becoming stronger, more capable. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for Alphys. Sure, she has lightning magic...but it drains her far too quickly for it to be useful in a long-term conflict. Obviously she knows that sitting behind computers to lend support doesn't always cut it, even though it's what she was best at. She had to do more than simply support from the sidelines. She wanted to. But she had no idea how. That nightmare has reminded her of the possible consequences of allowing her feelings of helplessness to restrain her from acting. To be fair, there wouldn't be much she could do in that sort of situation. But there would be definitely hate aimed towards herself if she went on living knowing she didn't at least try.

There are times like these when she wishes she could have some of Undyne's confidence, just to make these feelings go away. She said she wasn't going to bum herself out, and she wasn't. Especially not over something like that. Like Undyne said, she's been plenty helpful. There no reason that these things should make her feel down, and there's even less reason for her to actually let them do so. These thoughts managed to remind her exactly what she was trying to do while she was out here. Cheer herself up a little.

"Yo...Ms. Alphys?"

She jumped slightly and turned around quickly. Monster Kid was standing behind her with a curious glint in his eyes. "MK? Are you wandering around by yourself again? You've been warned against doing that so many times. Undyne and Papyrus get exhausted worrying about you." Alphys scolded gently.

MK winced a bit and lowered his head. He was wearing a green neckerchief around his neck in order to keep his neck and chin warm. Frisk bought it for him. "I'm sorry..."

The taller lizard sighed as she gently rubbed his head, a small smile on her face. "I'm not mad at you. It's just that we worry about you. We tell you time and time again that it isn't completely safe on the Surface, yet you wonder off by yourself anyway. I guess your curiosity is just that strong despite the consequences, huh?"I would know a thing or two about that...no, stay positive! This is actually a nice opportunity! "I guess it can't be helped. I'll walk with you since I don't have anything to do either."

"Okay!" MK's face lit up and he smiled brightly. Alphys was pleased to see MK cheer up so quickly, not wanting him to be sad because of her. She then began walking as MK followed after her with a carefree expression. She wondered what she might do with him for the moment.

Guuurmmmgh...

Alphys blushed brightly as she pawed her stomach. MK laughed a bit as she tried desperately to hide her embarassment. She shook her head a bit, before smiling and taking out her phone. She accessed her Dimensional Boxes, and eagerly pressed a button. Once she did, a Legendary Hero appeared in her paws, and she beamed happily. Though once she saw MK's eager face, she sighed while smiling softly towards him. They soon moved over to a bench as Alphys pressed another button on her phone as a Cinnamon Bunny appeared in MK's lap. He smiled as he eats his treat happily, spreading cinnamon on his cheeks. Alphys smiles as she begins eating her Legendary Hero.

"Ah...too few people understand a really good sandwich. Especially a sandwich of magic~" Alphys beamed as she takes another bite of her Legendary Hero. For a while back in the Underground, she tended to rely on comfort food to calm herself down every time she felt extremely down. Instant Noodles and Potato Chisps tended to be her pick...she criticized herself for underestimating the amazing potential of a great sandwich.

"You said it!" MK chirped, even though he wasn't eating a sandwich himself. Alphys wondered about something. MK wasn't really a kid anymore. He was easing closer to being an adolescent. So maybe he can make himself known as Monster Teen? MT? But wait...that would be half the abbreviation for Mettaton. And he admires Mettaton a lot...

The thought made Alphys giggle slightly as she munched onto her Legendary Hero, quickly finishing it and patting her sufficiently filled belly. This was nice. Simply relaxing with MK and not worrying about her own inner problems. A nice distraction certainly couldn't hurt, could it? No, she supposed not. As she was on this line of thought, she wondered about Monster Kid, and his condition. She already knew the truth about his parents, everyone did. Snowdin residents just never brought it up in order to spare his feelings as best as they could. He wasn't that naive to stay clinging to those memories enough to stop living his life. But still, it takes all of Snowdin to raise him and keep him safe. She was glad he had so many people looking after him.

She wondered if-

Alphys quickly stood up from her bench as she scanned the area. Something was wrong, she could sense that danger was close. MK could probably sense it too, as he began shivering nervously and staying close to her. A couple seconds pass as she realized something else. The park was filled with humans and monsters along with these two. But now...

Where did everyone go?! Not only that, but everything is slightly...gray...?

"Really? This is the Royal Scientist...?"

"?!" Alphys turned around to see a robed man moving from behind one of the trees. She didn't get a good look at his face since it was shrouded by a hood. His robes were pitch black and long-sleeved, in which the cuff of the sleeves were white. However, what shocked Alphys most was the symbol on the front...the Delta Rune. And it wasn't the usual white and slight purple. The symbol itself was blood red. Blood red in a demonic fashion.

What the hell...?

"This isn't what I expected from the Royal Scientist. One of the smartest beings in the world is sitting in the park, eating sandwiches and wearing...a neko hood? Your name is Alphys, right?"

Alphys was cautious, gently placing a paw upon MK's head and pushing him behind her. "My name is indeed Alphys. As for the Royal Scientist deal...I've officially resigned from that position."

"That so? I suppose that makes sense. Never heard of someone with such an important status dress so...strangely. Resigned or not."

"You're saying that as if nekos are bad..." Alphys pouted. "Anyway...what did you do? Where did everyone go?"

"That would be a magic cloak covering this entire area. It's specific purpose is to drive civilians away from the area by forcing them to focus their attention elsewhere. As you can see, I designated this entire area to be under it's influence. Calling for help also doesn't work within the area of effect, so it's pointless to even try." He slowly raised his hand as a wide earth wall surrounded the trio, rising from the ground, keeping that enclosed space to themselves. It must be an added precaution. And he was right about that interference messing with communications, as she couldn't get her phone to work when she reached for it.

I think I've heard of that kind of spell in a certain magical anime...wait a minute! Magic?! Alphys blinked in further shock as she looked over the man once again. No way...humans have lost their connection to magic a long time ago! They're not supposed to...no, wait...Frisk and Chara were able to use magic after certain conditions were met. Still, they were special exceptions. So...why...?!

The man smirked at Alphys disbelieving stare. "Ah. I can understand your surprise. Humans aren't supposed to use magic anymore, right? I suppose you really have relinquished your official status and chose a more lax lifestyle. If you haven't, you would have known that the world has changed, in more ways than you can possibly imagine. And it won't stop there. There's so much you don't know that you really should. That is, if your run as Royal Scientist wasn't just a joke."

Alphys narrowed her eyes. "What are you doing here? What do you want?"

The man approached slowly, putting Alphys further on edge. "Right, this is where the more unfortunate part of our meeting starts. You see, I've been ordered by my superiors to kill you." He paused to watch Alphys's face shift into shock and horror. "I should probably elaborate on that. A certain monster has trespassed onto our territory, and we've connected him and his accomplices back to you. He and his friends managed to escape our grasp for now, but they can't hide forever. Especially since we've done enough damage to the purple one that he can't contact you for help. I think he'll be quite upset to hear that his creator has been dusted."

Purple one...creator...accomplices...wait a minute, don't tell me...! Alphys's shock and horror deepened, then her fist clenched as they both gave way to concerned anger. That's why she had a bad feeling during his birthday call. He was in trouble this entire time! "What did you do to Mettaton and the others?! Leave them alone!" She was blantantly ignored as she feels an earth spike just barely knick her tail, and she flinched from it.

The man smiled as he slowly began walking towards Alphys and MK. The earth slowly gathered around his body, forming a small orbital ring around him. "Alright...how about we get this over with." With this, one of the pieces of rock slowly formed into a large spike, and suddenly shot towards the both of them.

"Damn!" Alphys quickly grabbed MK and jumped out of the way, missing the attack by several centimeters. She sat up quickly as she held MK stand up. He looked terrified, though he was mostly worried about her. To be perfectly honest, she was terrified too. Her day started out bad, got slightly better, then it got worse again. And yet, still... "MK. I need you to get back."

"B-But what about you...?" MK asked, concerned about Alphys. He wasn't completely understanding of the situation, but knew enough that they were both in serious danger.

"He's only after me. It's not a very good chance, but it's chance enough for me. Please, go." Alphys said a bit more strongly, spreading her arm in front of MK with narrowed eyes towards her attacker. MK shivered violently, but he obeyed and ran off in order to go hide. Alphys sighed as she went to face him again. She gasped as more earth spikes shot towards her, causing her to dodge via rolling to the side. Though when she finished the roll, another spike emerged from the ground, just barely slicing into her side. She winced greatly as she collasped on her side. Though she forced herself to overcome the pain as she tried to raise her head and glare at the man before her. "Tell me...why are you donning the Delta Rune...?"

The man shrugged. "It's decoration. Didn't think that it would be somewhat familiar to you. A group at the very top just thought it would make a great symbol, so they went with it."

Somebody else is trying to don the Delta Rune...but why?...? Alphys thought to herself. She winced greatly as another small spike entered her side from the ground, causing her to wince in more pain and roll to her side. "What the hell...? If you're trying to kill me, then why are you...?"

"I happen to take...some enjoyment out of this." His tone indicated that he enjoyed it a lot, despite his somewhat professional facial expression. " I have to admit, despite what your physique may entail, you're much more durable than I gave you credit for."

Alphys glared as she tried her best to stand up, feeling her blood soaking her hoodie. She gasped as she held her sides, barely bearing the pain for the moment. She was already feeling weak. Too many forceful punctures like this was going to place her in mortal danger. She slowly cradled her arm as she tried to figure out what to do. Right now she was on her own, cursing herself for not being practicing her lightning magic as much as she should have. She desperately tried to figure out a way out of this situation. Not to mention, MK was still in the area and in danger of getting seriously hurt. And he couldn't escape with this mercenary standing in his way! She needed to think fast.

Another spike pierced into her right arm, as well as two more into her stomach She cried out as she collapsed to her knees, trying to keep her bearings as her vision blurred despite her glasses. He was really toying with her, and it was getting on her nerves. Come on, there has to be something I can do! I really wish I had strengthened my own magic as well as the others!

"But you're right. I am dragging this out too much. I'll finish up quickly." The man continued, as the earth around him began forming a much larger spear than the others. He then raised one finger, and he looked to the side. "...After I take care of this one."

Alphys's eyes widened, holding her paw out towards him. "No! You can't...!"

All he did was flick his hand towards MK. The child was still attempting to find a place to hide. Unfortunately, his infamous faceplanting trait slowed him down tremendously, thus keeping him out in the open. Alphys abandoned all thought processes a the moment and just ran straight for MK as quickly as she could force herself. The man simply shrugged, that'd be two monsters down in one attack, less hassle for him. Alphys continued running. Despite readily admitting that she wasn't the most fit monster in the world, and despite the injuries in her sides, she didn't stop for anything. All that mattered to her was keeping MK from harm. She just barely managed to beat the spike, and pushed MK out of the way. She nearly collapsed to her knees as it neared her. Time seemed to slow down for her.

...There was no way she could allow herself to die like this. Especially in such a random way, to a stranger she didn't even know anything about. A human that knew magic...she needed to know when and how this happened. And for how long. She couldn't allow herself to die here...not to some unnamed jerk. if she could just reach out into the deepest parts of her soul...there must be something she could do to...there MUST be! She needed to save herself. But more importantly, she needed to protect MK.

Her monster soul shined brilliantly for a couple seconds before the attack made contact.

There was a small explosion right where she was, and MK gasped at her possible demise. The man sighed as he lowered his hand. "That might have been a bit much for someone as small and fragile as her...hopefully I can gather her dust so I can pro-" His eyes widened as the smoke slowly clears, and he seemed just as surprised as the gobsmacked MK. "What the...?"

Alphys slowly opened her eyes, wondering how she wasn't skewered by the largest spike. She slowly brought her paws from her face as she realizes what's happening. She was surrounded by a yellow force-field, which was responsible for destroying the earth spike before it could fully reach her, reducing it to a burst of harmless splinters. She looked at her paws as the field goes down. Her eyes widened behind her glasses. What...what happened...? How did I...? She didn't know what that was, but she was glad it happened.

"Huh. I wasn't aware that you've other magical abilities under your sleeves. Color me surprised..." The man blinked as he raised his hand. The earth slowly gathered around him again. "What was that, anyway? There wasn't any information about you generating force-fields."

"...I didn't know I could do that, either..." Alphys said, also shocked by her ability. She gasped as more sharp earth spears sped towards her, and she unconsciously kept the field up, protecting both herself and MK from damage. W-w-w-what's going on?! How am I doing this? I've never been capable of something like this before...I managed to practice control, but I never focused on actually getting stronger...so what is this?! The barrage of earth spears stopped, and she placed her field down with a relieved sigh. She then shook her head vigorously. This is strange...but I worry about that later. Right now this sudden change seems to be reactive...

She guessed that this mercenary was getting flustered by her sudden change in ability, though not nearly to the extent that she was. With a more forceful push, more sharp rocks shot towards her, along with a larger, sturdier rock. Alphys narrowed her eyes as she subconsciously raised her forcefield again, deflecting the rocks and disintergrating them upon contact. And when it came to the larger rock heading towards her. Alphys quickly wrapped her arms around MK and jumped out of the way, narrowly avoiding the earth. Surprisingly, her jump covered much more distance than her last one, and she landed near-perfectly on her feet. She was just as flustered as her attacker and MK.

"Impressive movement." The assassin said as his eyes narrowed under his hood. I don't like this...there was no information about her having abilities like these, just lightning magic. Weak at least and moderate at best. Any more and she overexerts herself. What she's beginning to display is completely new. She shouldn't be able to do something like this. Unless...were they actually serious about that detail about monsters...?! He shook off his concerned thoughts and continued his attack on the duo, pulling up a large amount of rock to toss at them again. Alphys looked towards the rock barrage and once again puts up her field to defend against it.

This isn't getting me anywhere. I really don't know what this new feeling in my soul is...but I don't have the luxury to think deeply about it at this very moment. Alphys shook her head as she stood up straight, standing in front of MK. I'll just have to hope this works out in my favor. But in order for that to happen, I need to get a handle on whatever this is, quickly. The only way THAT'S going to happen is if I take action! In other words she was essentially following Undyne's example. She didn't think she would be able to it very effectively since this wasn't expected by her at all, but she should be able to figure it out with her ingenuity. As soon as the attack finished, Alphys simply acted. She suddenly raised her hand above her head, and she noticed several orbs floating above her head. After closer inspection, she was able to recognize them as the laser pods that were set in Hotlands and mostly in the Core, the pods that emitted lasers. Accepting it for now, she willed for them to fire white beams of light towards her attacker. His eyes widened before two lasers grazed his sides, and three more struck him dead in the chest, knocking him against the ground a couple feet.

"Yoooo..." MK mumbled in awe at Alphys' actions, surprised she was capable of such things. To be fair, she didn't realize she was capable of such a thing, either. A couple of pods floated by her side as she stared at them in just as much awe.

These are just like the defense mechanisms set up back in Hotlands and the Core...but how am I able to call them out of nothing...? She thought as she looked towards her attacker. Is this some sort of magic...but it's technology...either way, I can't focus on that right now. He's getting back up...

She was right. Now fully angered by someone he considered weak and defenseless, the mercenary shouted in fury as a large boulder began manifesting over him once again, and he tosses it towards both Alphys and MK with reckless abandon, intending to crush them both.

Alphys took a couple steps back in slight intimidation, but she stood her ground once she saw MK flinch in fear once again. Fully intent on not leaving his side, she held her arm in front of him and narrowed her eyes behind her glasses. I really don't know what's going on here...or what's going on with ME, for that matter. I feel like I tapped into something deep within my soul. My strength...endurance...magical ability...and...Determination. And right now, the understanding of the last thing is all I need! Once again, she acted on instinct, adrenaline, and determination all acting as one. And with magic she was unaware of gathering in her paw, she threw the same paw forward, and a bomb with a plus on it shot out of it and aimed for the large rock heading her way. Moments later, the rock exploded into pieces, scattering across he ground in harmless, smaller smoking rocks. She was shocked about what she did for a few moments, but shook it off as she regained her focus.

"Hehe...blew up your precious projectile. Now what are you going to throw at me?"

Her attacker was flustered and in total disbelief. No way...h-how did she...?!

"Judging by how quickly your face is distorting into disbelief and slight fear, I guess you don't really have more under your arsenal, do you? You weren't lying about being a low-level enemy if that was all you could throw at me. Either you're very weak...or I'm just stronger than even I realized." Alphys analyzed coolly, her glasses flashing white as she took a step forward. "Now then, sorcerer..." She took another step, and her attacker backed up in fear.

"S-Stay back!"

She instead took another step.

"I said stay back! I'm sorry, alright?! I-I'll leave!" I knew the monsters have gotten stronger...but THIS...this is utterly ridiculous!

"Too late for that. You're the one that came and attacked me." Alphys remarked coldly as she took another step, her glasses shining dangerously. "Additionally, you tried to attack Monster Kid after I specifically told you in no uncertain terms to LEAVE HIM ALONE. THEN you tried to toy with me instead of just doing the job you were 'assigned' to do. That chance is gone now. I believe you realize this." Slight sparks of electricity emitted off of her body. They sparked strongly enough for the spikes to eject out of her body. Blood leaked, though she pressed onward. "And now you tell me that my intuition about my friends being in trouble was right, and I realize that I made the mistake of not acting upon it sooner. I'm especially angry about THAT detail! Once again, I've made a mistake that's bound to have serious consequences!"

It has become incredibly clear that making Alphys angry was a very moronic error. The glare in her eyes was strong and full of agitation, as well as self-loathing. Though the thing most powerful within her eyes was Determination. He panicked as he pushed his hand outward, pillars of earth rose up around him and he tossed them all towards her in a last desperate attack.

Alphys was having none of it. She held her paw out as the pods manifested again, firing multiple lasers sliced that sliced the rocks apart, allowing them to land harmlessly around herself and MK. "That's enough. I'm not a helpless scientist like whoever hired you thought I was. At least not anymore, apparently. I don't know what happened to me, but it appears that my soul has given me a boost of power. Strength, endurance, magic ability, and a pinch of determination. I'll look into that when I have time. And judging by how you relied exclusively on your magic throughout this encounter and avoided direct contact, I can make a hypothesis and say that your endurance isn't all that great." She said strongly as she clenched her fist. "Here, let's test out both theories!"

Neither of them have expected her punch to be so hard. She analyzed that she definitely below the physical strengths of Papyrus and Undyne, but the damage was very much above average as he was sent flying a few feet back into a tree, cracking it slightly. He slumped to the ground, certain that a few ribs have been cracked. MK watched on in shock and fascination, utterly surprised by Alphys' performance. To be fair, she was plenty surprised as well. Though she shook it off as she approached the defeated mercenary, stopping just in front of him.

"You'll be losing consciousness soon. I'll make sure you'll be brought in for interrogation." She said simply. She looked in confusion as he began chuckling uneasily, blooding dripping from his mouth.

"Damn...I really underestimated the Royal Scientist, retired or not..." He sighed as he looked up towards her slightly. "So...this is just a taste...of the Dreemurr Faction's power...and it's threat on the balance of this world...heh...they were right to be concerned after all..." He soon lost consciousness, slumping sideways on the ground.

The Dreemurr Faction...? She made sure to catalog that in her mind for later. Right now, she had to check on MK. She turned around and began to take a step. "MK, are you alright...?"

"H-Huh? Yeah, I'm fine!" He looked around and noticed that people and monsters were gathering around, and they looked shocked at the destruction they failed to notice until now, and not knowing why. "That weird thing he did before, I think it wore off! People are noticing us!"

"That's good. Now we c-" Pain shot through her the moment she took another step, and she unceremoniousoly fell to the ground, coughing slightly. She noticed that her wounds haven't exactly healed during the confrontation, and she failed to notice this until the pain returned full-force. She smiled awkwardly. "Ah yes, adrenaline. You choose to wear off the moment I was about to contact someone...typical..." She noticed her glasses fell a few feet in front of her, and she tried reaching for them. Though her vision blurred badly, until her eyes closed and completely lost consciousness.

MK panickered slightly at seeing her eys close, running up to her and nudging her. "H-Hey! Ms. Alphys! Wake up! Ms. Alphys!" He looked around frantically, jumping around. If he had arms he'd be flailing them. "Help! Somebody please help! My friend, she's really hurt! Somebody?!"

Far above them, on the edge of a building, with his cloak flowing along the wind...Parvos. He watched the entire thing with a curious catlike glint in his eyes. After a moment of silence and wondering if he should simply kill Alphys while she was down, he decided against it. That wasn't his assignment. His real assignment was seeing if what his superior was suspecting was true. And it turns out that she was right in her suspicions...again. He still wasn't going to give her any gold just because he was skeptical at first. Though he did admit it was fun to watch the human sorcerer fail so spectacularly. He's a mere drop of water when compared to the massive ocean that the top seven reside in when it comes to power.

He grinned cheekily.

Well will ya look at that! I never expected the braniac to be the first one of the main six to achieve Magic Awakening. Guess she isn't so weak after all. Better give the boss status update, one of her guilds have chosen to go a bit rogue in their actions. He yawned as he licked the back of his paw and rubbed it against his cheek. Though I'm not particularly excited for her to act childish about being right again...damn it all...

A flock of birds flew past him, and he was suddenly gone...

Hmmm...

The Dreemurr Faction...Magic Awakening...

Now I wonder what these two terms might lead to...? Curiosity peaked.

How about you, readers?~

Here we begin the Dreemurr Faction Arc, because at the moment, that's a bigger focus than the latter. Not to say that the latter won't be important, though.

Alphys...what magic is she wielding...? It helps that she's kind of a main focus in this arc alongside other things.

...Parvos is being creepy again. Don't appreciate it.