Not gonna lie, this chapter might be a bit of a mess. Not completely sure about it. But I'm sure enough that I wanna post it and see through anyway.
Lore for one of the three Kingdoms that seriously don't like each other. The missions have begun, though there's quite a lot for several characters to say. Hope you can forgive that as we go along.
Asriel: Traveling via River Person sure is convenient though.
Chara: Yeah. Vehicle magic means they can pretty much travel anywhere of their choosing, with the right selection.
Frisk: River Person might make much more money one day via transportation services...how awesome.
Chapter Start!
(The Next Morning)
"Alright everyone. This is it. We're all in agreement for our next course of action, so we'll be setting up how to go about it." Toriel called out to everyone, who were just about finished eating breakfast and were now gathered around herself and Asgore for a debriefing. "We have to appeal to both Astus and Surripio in a simultaneous fashion, so we'll be splitting up. Asgore, you will take Asriel, Frisk, Chara, Gerson, and Eloise. Meanwhile I shall head to Surripio with Undyne, Alphys, Muffet, Red, Papyrus, Sans, Flowey, and Elvira. The Pack will go with my group, and the Pride will go with Asgore's. We'll work out further details with our respective teams once we reach our destinations."
"and ya sure this is a preferable way to do this, tori?" Sans asked.
"There probably are several better ways this can go, if this problem was somewhat lighter. But no one will get anywhere with the way things currently are now. Direct intervention may not be our safest option, but we need them to actually talk to each other if things are to improve. It's no good if Eloise is the only one searching for compromise." Toriel said sternly.
"hey, it's cool. just makin' sure."
"SO WE HAVE OUR OBJECTIVES ALL SET, AND AN END GOAL IN SIGHT! THIS WILL BE QUITE A QUEST!" Papyrus declared strongly. "LADY ELOISE, WILL IT REALLY BE ALRIGHT IF THE PRIDE GOES WITH THE OTHER GROUP?"
"I assure you that the Kingdoms soldiers are more than capable of holding things down here while me and my sister are gone. I'm placing my full faith in their ability." Eloise nodded. "And I do the same for you and your own group, Paladin Papyrus."
"PALADIN...?"
"she's sayin' you're a hero, bro."
"OOOOHHH, I LIKE THE SOUND OF THAT! HOW KIND OF HER! SUCH HIGH PRAISE FROM A QUEEN!~"
"still...we're going with the jinxed sister of this duo...hey, eloise? any chance ya can whip up a good luck charm? for safety precautions?"
"...Good luck, Sans." Eloise smiles sweetly.
"...i see what ya did there, you cheeky aristocat." He muttered, then grunted when Elvira playfully slapped the back of his skull.
"Don't worry about it! It's gonna be fine! Getting there will be fine! That River Person of yours should cut the trip down to ten minutes." She hummed. "Everything else, though? All of that will be difficult."
"Especially when we're on the lookout for other cabals out to get us." Undyne rolled her eye.
"Oh, yeah. Almost forgot about that." Asriel sighed while scratching the back of his head. "I suppose they'll try and disrupt our proceedings however they can, huh...?"
"It's going to be particularly bad for both parties. Asgore's party will be out in the open for extended periods of time, and the destination Toriel's headed is well known for attracting trouble of that kind. Either way, we may have to fight several times before we can secure their favors."
"Not going to be a problem!~" Muffet beamed while stretching her arms upwards with her eyes tightly closed. She had switched to a violet shirt with a frilly collar, an orange short skirt, and pink thigh-high stockings with brown high heeled boots. And of course she hardly forgets the neat ribbon, placed on her chest.
"Please don't drive them crazy with your antics, Muffet. This is important." Chara sighed.
"Of course I see the importance, Dearie! But my five eyes also see many windows of opportunity. Windows I'll be opening when I have said opportunity within my many hands." Muffet chuckles lightly. Still seeing the slightly annoyed look om his face, she moved up to him, lightly leaning to place a gentle kiss on his lips. "Relax. I'm going with your mother, as well as Undyne. Who would want to mess with me with them nearby, with how much they treasure friends?"
"I suppose that's true..."
"And besides, Red's coming too. And I know she'll have my back, and vice versa. So really, I'm not too worried.~"
"...Are you sure you can't pretend to be worried? At least a little? Your confidence still doesn't cease to baffle me."
"Ahuhuhu!~"
Muffet places another kiss on his lips, lasting a bit longer than the previous one. How nice she smells today, paired with how sweet and sugary her lips tasted, much like the pastries she sells, and how incredibly soft they were...it almost left him unable to focus, and remember that he won't be seeing her for a while. And with this current feeling coursing through him, that revelation was such an annoying downer.
She eventually releases him, lightly petting his unkempt hair and patting his rosy cheeks, kissing him on both. "See you soon, Chara-Dearie. Try not to miss me too much.~" She says softly, before turning and moving to where the other women-Pack included-would be waiting...and of course she threw in a rather distracting swing of her hips while she did so.
Chara shook his head rapidly, regaining his focus. Stay focused on the goal at hand. She'll be fine. Like she said, Red and the others have her back. Right now I have to focus about my brothers. They have to come first for as long as we're here.
That's absolutely right! Assure brothers safety and goals come first! Appreciate the amazing spider thighs later!
...Damn it.
Asriel and Red's parting was significantly more short and innocent, with them simply nuzzling each other's noses before pulling away and going their separate ways. "Be careful, Red. Please be safe."
"You've nothing to worry about, Asriel. I'm going with Lady Toriel and Lady Undyne. There's no way we'll lose with them around!" Red nodded strongly as she shifted back with the women as well as the Pack. Toriel and Asgore were scene giving each other a nuzzle and kiss as well, before reluctantly separating.
Asriel nodded quietly as he regrouped with the guys for the most part, and were accompanied by the Pride. Asgore did a quick head count, then nodded. "Very well. It's time to move out, boys."
"Right!" Frisk nodded, his opened eyes shining bright blue and gold, both filled with Determination. Eloise took notice.
"Oh? So that's what your eyes look like. They're beautiful."
"Thank you."
"Alright, River Person. You'll have to take us to the capital of Astus. Full speed, since you'll be doing the same for my wife's group towards Surripio."
"Tra La la. Grand distances covered in minutes. That's my specialty today, hm-mm!~" River Person hummed, as their boat glowed and expanded to fit the number of people they would be ferrying. Once they boarded, the vessel immediately takes off, leaving a trail of smoke behind as half the friends that came with them saw them off.
They hoped for success on their end, as well as success for their comrades. They've had their set goals and discussed how to proceed. Help the other two Kingdoms and see if they couldn't get them all open to progressive dialogue. With this, everything was set.
Time to move.
"Eloise, do you mind if I ask you a few things?" Asriel requested. The golden cat would sit up slightly and nodded. "Do you think you can tell us more about these Kingdoms and how they're ruled? At least on this continent?"
"Hm. That shouldn't be too difficult." Eloise hummed. "Obviously things have changed. More than on this continent but all over the world, in more ways than one. But what sticks out the most was that many didn't agree on how a kingdom should be run. Or running a government in general. It's been quite a mess over the years." She sighed quietly. "I can tell you that Fortuna has been a monarchy, simple as that...only for Ratoveros to up and turn the rule into despotism. Fortuna has been a stratocracy against it's will for a while."
"Thar means military rule, doesn't it?" Frisk asks.
"Indeed, young one. We had no hope of escaping thst shadow. Our saving grace that you've irritated him enough to give us time to slowly but surely regain public favor and promise a speedy recovery on the chance that he's removed from power." Eloise explained. "And as you can see, the recovery is speedy indeed. It's the ones trying to hinder or stop the recovery that burdens us now. I want this current crises taken care of so we can truly connect with one another. Keeping each other at arm's length is not good for anyone, especially our people."
"Is that so..." Chara hummed.
"We were divided for years due to...conflicts of interest. The main issue lies within our inability to compromise. It's because of those conflicts of interest, as well as other outside factors, that we seemingly hate each other so much. Ratoveros' reckless attempts to subjugate both of them certainly didn't help our standing."
"I suppose not..."
"In any case, the Kingdoms themselves. Astus holds the belief that no one from the other two kingdoms is to be trusted within their borders, thus it's highly difficult to get them to speak with us. Only the supplies we give them through trade are allowed. And rarely-VERY rarely-do they engage in dialogue with Surripio. And even then, it's only about business. Astus is more willing to work with them than Fortuna, but that doesn't mean they trust them fully." Eloise chuckled softly. "The relationship between us is full of irony. You know why that is?"
"What is it?" Frisk asked curiously.
"The Astus Kingdom...is known as the Kingdom of Tricksters." She had predicted the confused gazes on their faces, aside from the Pride's. "Yes. Astus's warriors are known for trickery of many forms. Illusions. Traps. Smooth-talking, bargaining, problem-solving. Though they can be troublemakers, they may also share new wisdom or experience. They're skilled in many of those fields. As such, you're likely to find many a Soul of Perseverance among humans."
"And the Kingdom is full of warriors like these guys? This is the place that's walling itself up due to mistrust?" Chara said.
"Several magic cabals were less than cordial with their trickery, and responded via brute forcing through all of it. They were able to repel them, but it proved damaging enough that they couldn't trust anyone outside their borders, only rarely doing specific business with Surripio." Rasha filled in. "It is more than likely we will clash with some of them if our interference continues."
"We keep moving on." Asriel said after thinking it over for the longest time. Frisk nodded almost immediately afterwards.
"Seriously, kid? Even after all that, you still feel like going through with this?" Parvos questioned with a raised eyebrow.
"Nothing is going to get done if we hesitate for too long. The scope of this entire thing may have changed, but our minds have not."
Parvos sighed while scratching the back of his head. "Geez, kid. Ya seriously gotta talk all noble like that? It's rare to find royalty that's so willing to risk their necks for the sake of other people, especially to your extent."
"It's because I'm royalty that I have to help others." Asriel said strongly. "Can you really expect citizens to accept royalty if royalty doesn't accept them?" His voice softens while turning towards Parvos, who-to Eloise's surprise-found a retort he prepared dying before he could voice it. "You're of nobility, Parvos. And I'm royalty. Instead of using that as an excuse to manipulate others and treat them cruelly, or just ignoring their plight outright, how about you treat people kindly and offer a helping paw when you can?"
"...What would be in it for me?"
Frisk gently smiles. "For starters, more people will love you."
"Seriously?"
"Well, if you're so sure that the world is such a bad place, why not help us make it better instead of lashing out at people who don't deserve it and making things worse?" Frisk said calmly.
"Yes, Parvos. Exactly that." Asriel supported. "I mean...are you really happy with what you've previously done? Have you ever looked into your reflection all this time and truly asked yourself: Don't you have anything better to do?"
The words were not lost on either Frisk or Chara. It's been some time since they heard that one.
"...Can you think of another reason why Undyne took in a troublemaker like me?" Parvos changed the subject, his voice growing quieter. Shamir and Eloise definitely noticed, and were quite surprised.
"You can ask her yourself, later." Chara huffed with closed eyes. "It's true Asriel may give the answer, but you won't be satisfied unless Undyne herself tells you, right?" The silence that followed was enough of an answer, with Chara turning away from him.
"Eloise, do notify us if we're getting closer, because I see civilization ahead." Asgore noted while pointed ahead. Eloise would turn to see a large wall ahead of them, followed by a gate. Though it was fair to say that any one of them could have easily scaled it, the slight magic in the air said otherwise. "The walls come with an invisible barrier, it seems. To give the illusion of easy entry via scaling."
"Which means we're only going to be let in if they deem us trustworthy enough not to do something once inside." Chara sighed. "It sucks, but for now, we have to convince them that we're not a threat. And that's not going to b easy since a majority of our group is from the Kingdom they hate the most..."
"Let me handle this." Frisk said confidently. Asriel and Chara were somewhat worried, but the stern and determined gaze he had-as much as Eloise could tell, the boy always had his eyes closed-eased this, and they trusted Frisk in turn. "Dad, I'm going to need you to back me up on this. We have to talk our way in."
"Very well."
"I'll need you too, Miss Eloise." Frisk soon turned to the golden feline in question. "You'll have to do some talking too. Let's hope your luck boosts our chances of them saying yes."
"I can see you're confident enough to joke. So I suppose I'll lend a paw as well." Eloise smiled as she and the others stepped off of River Person's boat. They would wait there patiently when they were sure that the gang would be allowed in. There were two human guards at the front, both wearing red-orange cloaks with the insignia of fox tails on their cuffs.
Asriel sensed their level of magic. Not too immense, but enough that getting in a fight with them wouldn't be the best idea. Frisk wishing to talk first might be a good idea.
"Greetings, my guardian friends." Frisk greeted with a subtle wave and smile.
Glowing orange spears were pointed at him in moments.
"...That was much faster than I expected." Shamir said with a sigh. Ribras and Rasha couldn't bring themselves to disagree. "I really hope Frisk knows what he's doing..."
"For the guards sake, I hope he does." Parvos added while nodding towards Asgore. The Boss Monster had a genuinely calm expression on, but the slight amount of threatening intent from him showed how amused he was with weapons pointed st his youngest.
Frisk was significantly less bothered, though.
"There's no need for that, I'm not an enemy here. None of us are." Frisk says while gesturing to the others. "We just want to see if we can schedule a meeting with your grand ruler. They're isn't too busy, is he?"
"What would be your business with him?"
"Ah, dialogue! Progress!~" Frisk clapped. "Good! Great! So, here's the thing. You know about many of those magic cabals, right? Usually the ones that would be threatening the innocent, culling possible threats, abusing their powers, the like? Well me and my friends have had just about enough of that, and are wondering if we can get your leader's support in helping us fight better against it."
"We're strictly not to let anyone pass through here from either of the Kingdoms. You don't look like you're from Astus. And you..." Eloise lamented the suspicious look sent her way. "...you're with her?"
"We have heard of the difficulties that Astus has been out through because of Fortuna's actions under Ratoveros. While the attitude is understandable, it's ultimately detrimental in the long run." Asgore added, trying to keep pressure away from Eloise. "You're holding yourselves down here, both rejecting possible enemies and possible help. You might not get any worse, but you also won't get any better."
"Fortuna has wronged you, I won't just deny that. That's why we want to be better towards you. You'd need only show and tell us how." Eloise said in a somewhat pleading voice. "We want to help. Really help. But you must allow us to do so..."
"After everything that's happened, you think we'll accept that help?"
"Listen, good kind guards. I think this is the part of this important subject that must be taken up with your ruler. Eloise's intentions are true and genuine." Frisk continues, regaining momentum. "She was relatively safe within her own Kingdom, but chose to risk her life possibly drawing other enemies to her by coming out of that safety net. Someone willing to risk their life...they're not people to scoff at. So even if you don't really believe her, you can at least have him hear her out if she is going through this much trouble."
There was no retort this time around. Both of them seemed to be thinking about their next course of action.
"Please...you must allow us entry. We wish to help you. Living in self-isolation is no way to live at all. Allow us to convince your leader of this, then we can come up with a solution together?" Eloise pleaded, the gold in her eyes sparkling, due to the desperate tears beginning to gather.
"Oh boy. Waterworks." Parvos sighed. "Look, do us all a favor and just let us in. If we cause some sort of trouble you can immediately throw us back out, ya dig? Seriously, my aunt's a nasty crier. No one wants to see that. Once it starts, stopping will take at least ten minutes."
"And to think that used to be you." Chara sniped towards Asriel in amusement. The less amused Asriel simply poked his claw into Chara's cheek, making him wince. "Ow..."
Both the guards gazed at each other for a moment. The one on the right sighed as he turned and moved towards the gate while seemingly speaking into a scroll of sorts. The sight of the scroll confused them, but the sound of the gates eventually opening confused them even further. Either way, it seems that they were allowed entry, even if the only reason was the hope that they could come in, and leave just as quickly. Regardless the group entered, with River Person sailing off to the other gang to be their transport as well. Frisk was the first one to step through, and he and the others-aside from Eloise and the Pride-were filled with awe.
This was less of a capital appearance-wise, and more of a massive village. It appears they weren't really focused on technology and such, given that many of their homes consist of meticulously crafted lodges that looked like they would stand strong against certain weather conditions, with the occasional old-fashioned yet stronger housing further back. They've also taken note of the many gardens that decorated the land. Several were normal, while others were created and nurtured via magic. It's likely bore fruit to high-quality crops. Perhaps that's something they would be trading? Sending their crops across other parts of the Kingdom, and maybe even to Surripio here and there? Since the soil here looked rich and healthy enough to support such crops, with or without magic, combining this with the bright sunny weather that also helps normal plants grow, it was clear that agriculture was highly successful here. It appeared that aside from trickery, they were very skilled farmers with a very lucky green thumb.
Asgore might like, given his favorite hobby was gardening when not making tea, and those two tend to cooperate with one another. Maybe he could learn a thing or two from here?
That wasn't the only thing they saw. They would also notice several citizens speaking with one another with quiet, anxious, yet genuine happiness. They seemed content with the way things are. And the variety of monsters was slightly different as well. He could see more of the occasional rabbit monster playing with several human children, and raccoon monsters toying with some of them as well before retreating from their own human friends, though he sensed no ill will.
The anxiety certainly began to show itself. Several people gasped in surprise seeing the group being escorted to their destination. Suspicious eyes, curious children being pushed behind their parents or into their homes, and some looking like they might fight if they so much as looked at them wrong. Asriel could only look sad at the distrust in most of their eyes. Distrust and fear, even hate, caused by the blatant, incorrect, and disrespectful use of the Delta Rune symbol.
This Kingdom has become self-sufficient for the most part, but at such a deep cost of being unable to trust the other two Kingdoms, which is unfortunately somewhat justified. He knew they all agreed they would find a way to fix this, but at the moment he has little idea of how to do that. That didn't mean he was giving up. He could only push onward for the moment.
The guards soon escorted them to what appeared to be the largest house/lodge within what might be known as the capital. It was designed with a bit more style and grace, and the magic generating within suggested that the owner was powerful indeed. "Our King wishes to see you now."
"But we just got here, how would he-" Chara began to ask, only for Will to gently tap his shoulder and point towards a high opening near the top of the hit that lets the sunlight in from one side. Several cloaked rabbits were swiftly leaving the hut without so much as making a sound. Chara's question evaporated with a slight 'Nevermind' being the only thing somewhat heard.
They've been watching them the entire time and not once were they able to notice, and never would have unless they allowed it.
"Yes. Of course tricksters would be watching us from afar. They're not to be underestimated." Ribras said quietly. "Luckily we managed to peacefully receive an audience. Fighting them would have been...problematic."
"Because they might be tough, and we would have been kicked out. Good thing we avoided that, huh?~" Will chuckled.
Eloise sighed as she was leading the way into the hut with the guards permission. The others soon followed right behind her. Though once they did enter, they could immediately see the leader they have come to see, and they could see how understandable it was for him to be seen as the leader.
For one, the monster before them was huge, at least as a small house, which was luckily smaller than the larger house that they were in. Another, was that he was a giant fox with nine waving tails that sprawled around the room. His fur was a reddish brown and his eyes were blood red with a slit through them. He wore blue armour with numerous metal plates, forming protective guards along his chest, waist, shoulders and thighs, though his feet remained bare, and his menacing claws were out for the others to see.
Eloise chose to politely bow before the grand fox, while the others promptly did the same, some more reluctantly than others. However, once the fox's eyes landed on Asgore, he spoke firmly, yet gently:
"There is no need for you all to bow. Least of all you two, Asgore and Asriel Dreemurr."
The two of them blinked quietly, before they eventually stood up with curious looks. "We don't? We're not offending you, are we? We have no idea exactly how we should act..."
"That is not your fault. I am more surprised by your direct appearance here. Never did I expect for you to make your presence here. I have heard of your many struggles against the many magic cabals that seek your destruction. Your determination is admirable." The grand fox nodded. "Not only that, the name Dreemurr is a name that commands great respect and admiration. Your family is not simply considered the lords of all other monsters, but it is a name that comes with great suffering, pain, hardship...yet they keep pushing on. As such...it is a great honor for Astus to welcome you. Well...we're more welcoming despite our hesitation."
"We've heard. Magic cabals from Fortuna bearing the Delta Rune insignia have been causing you untold amounts of grief for a long time, until you've decided to retreat inwards and increase your defenses so no one could hurt you." Asgore sighed quietly. "We certainly don't blame you. We were shocked ourselves at such a display..."
"Indeed. It is not just Astus, and it wasn't just Ratoveros causing grief of course. Because of them, people's faith in the Delta Rune has deteriorated, and the Dreemurr name itself has been discredited and shamed. To most, the Dreemurr name is scorned and referred to with great dishonor...but not here." The fox monster replied. "I recognize even here, your name brings uncertainty. But due to your accomplishments and indomitable persistence, the Astus Kingdom still believes in your strength. We wish to further rebuild our faith in you."
Asriel sighed before scratching the back of his head. "You seem to have great respect for us...though you also show great caution and aversion to the outside world, and especially Fortuna due to their past antagonistic nature towards you. And you barely interact with Surripio. Enough to exchange supplies but not enough to actually meet up..."
"It is true. Due to Fortuna's less than admirable violence, we closed ourselves to them completely. Which in turned lessened our interactions with Surripio to the minimum. We simply cannot bring ourselves to trust either of them...not after everything that's happened."
Eloise lowered her eyes. "Please...I know that my Kingdom has done you wrong for the longest time... are better now. We want to be better. You...you don't have to believe me right now. I know that regaining your trust is not something easy, it isn't supposed to be. Just...provide us the opportunity to do so. We will do whatever we can to make full use of that opportunity, if it means that our two Kingdoms can be amicable again."
The large fox gazes at the genuine pleading expression on her face. Eloise, the other half of the two Sisters of Luck. Good Luck and Bad Luck...it appears that both have quite the alienating effects. Good luck isolates due to how beneficial it is to the one born lucky, while their loved ones continue to suffer. Bad luck causes alienation due to how it might actively bring misfortune upon themselves as well as those loved ones.
Good fortune might alienates others due to others not being as successful, or others die in their place. Misfortune will being trouble upon themselves as well as others, which can be just as isolating, self-inflicted or not. He wondered if the negative aspects of both lead them to their current desperation? So much that the Dreemurr Faction themselves must come to their aid, even though they have their own goals for doing so?
"Sir...we beg of you...give us something to work with." Frisk softly speaks up. "Nothing is going to get better if we don't actively seek improvement. By keeping yourselves holed up in here, you're helping let the malevolent forces out there win. We can't let that happen. You say you admire the Dreemurrs, to help them out. We're just one really big group...we won't last too long without lots of help."
So that is what lead them to seeking out the Fortuna Kingdom. "And what your name be, young one? Are you the aspiring Ambassador known as Frisk?"
"I am, sir." Frisk said politely. "Of course we can't force you to say yes. You're allowed to say no. We're just letting you know that you a choice to give us and Fortuna a chance. Because in the long run, we may not be able to do this without you. And we won't be the only ones hurting for it."
"My sworn brother speaks true." Chara points out. "Your Kingdom may be standing strong, but it's still standing alone. In the end, that's doomed for failure. And doing nothing is just as damaging as the bad guys doing something. I know it's highly risky to get involved in these battles, but it's even riskier not to with these guys. Sooner or later, they're going to find some way around your defenses, and destroy you. You'll be left helpless and alone because you didn't decide to help someone else, and they can't help you because they're preoccupied elsewhere."
"Which in turn, will leave everyone feeling immensely remorseful for not being able to do enough to save the ones that needed help. We don't wish this upon you. We don't wish this upon anyone." Asriel said. "We want you to help us, and we want to help you. Even if it might take some serious work, which Eloise will gladly accept, don't you think it's time for reconcilation?"
They looked upon the fox hopefully. He seemed like a very stern monster, but not a completely unreasonable one. Perhaps those cabals ruined any chance of diplomatic interaction through Fortuna's actions as well. No wonder Eloise hasn't been successful in making contact with him, most of her attempts were sabotaged before she could even think about making them. The monster fox stirred, and looked at the group with an even expression.
"I-"
"Heeeeyyyyy!"
The large fox monster before them, whom for the whole time looked large, intimidating and a bit scary, had his eyes wide open and his jaw comically dropping as he and the others saw someone skipping through the entrance. Specifically a girl.
"We have visitors? We almost never have visitors!"
"Huh-Oof!" Frisk turned, only to grunt as something pounced on him, knocking him on his back and pinning him slightly. When he lifted his head to see what it was, he only saw a cream colored face and green slitted eyes staring down at him curiously.
"...You...your soul is very potent, more potent than any human I've seen and met." She said, sounding like she was casually speaking weather and not someone's very essence.
"Huh...thanks?"
"He's kinda the same way." She nodded her head towards Chara. "He also smells like chocolate and self-loathing."
"Eh?"
"And as for you." She jumped off of Frisk and in front of Asriel, looking him in the eye. "Your soul is like a fusion of several other souls traits within your monster soul to form an entirely new soul. It's like a soul palooza in your body!"
"Um...?" Asriel had no idea to respond to this sudden change of direction.
A large tail suddenly wrapped around the girl, who's reaction was a simple and unsurprised 'Oh?' as she was pulled back to the grumbling fox, who now seemed greatly annoyed.
"How many times must I tell you NOT to come barging in when I'm working?" He grumbled, setting her down gently. She simply blinked, then clasped her hands behind her back.
"...I'm hungry. Plus we have guests. We should throw them a feast." She said off-handedly.
"What? No! We're not having another feast so soon! We've just had one several days ago!" The monster fox sounded and looked comically exasperated.
"Right right...so we're gonna bring a good stash of corn for the feast, right?" She clapped. "Oh, and meat! NEVER forget the meat! And of course the quiche! That's always my favorite!~"
Quiche...? Frisk couldn't help but wonder.
"I said we're not having another feast! End of discussion!"
"You're right, I gotcha! Totally understand! Sooooo...we'll be having a welcome feast then?~"
"W-Wh...I...grgh!"
Gerson narrowed his eye towards the bickering duo for a little bit, briefly sensed their souls, then sighed while rubbing his nose as he confirmed the very existent soul link between them. "Good heavens. That's his daughter."
There was surprise from many of the group that didn't include Eloise and the Pride. Though they could understand it once that got a closer look at her. She seemed human enough, with her jade green eyes, messy auburn hair that was chin length and bob styled. She also wore a form fitting long-sleeved blue dress with light yellow accents on the rims and had two long splits on the side, and wore green sandals on her feet. She appears to have recently turned seventeen, being a head taller than Frisk and somewhat strong for her age. Though despite her appearance and the realization that she was a Princess, that wasn't what caught their attention first.
It was the green and purple sheen of a soul of Kindness and Perseverance soul, with a monster soul within it's center, which would explain the auburn-furred fox ears and tail with a black tip at the end. And judging by the slight alignment of the souls, the latter soul trait with the monster soul has been around longer, meaning she was born with both, while the former was absorbed into her.
She was a Monster-Human hybrid.
And unlike half of the six reborn children, they sensed that she was a natural one instead of forcibly created. Even though she was mostly human looking, her monster half would allow her to absorb human souls-and vice versa- without the need of twisted magitek like Alvina's family tried to do.
"I take it she's a major reason why most of you are somewhat locked in your current mindset." Chara said. It wasn't a question, even though he got plenty of glares for it.
Though surprisingly not from the large fox monster himself, who simply sighed while shaking his head. "...You are not incorrect in that assumption." He mumbled softly. His gaze then turned to Eloise once more. "...You swear you've come to Astus's aid? Not to harm it?"
"You may have my soul if fate makes a liar out of me."
"W-Woah, Auntie! Let's not take it THAT seriously!" Parvos looked genuinely panicked at how much conviction she portrayed in her voice for that promise. Though it seems to have convinced the fox, for he sighed and sat back a bit.
"...Very well. We shall discuss further details of our 'reconcilation'...during our feast."
"Yes! I knew we were going to have a welcome feast! Feast time!~" The now recognized Princess of Astus beamed while twirling once. "I want quiche!"
"I know, dear. I'll have the cooks-"
"Nope!" She protested immediately, folding her arms. "I want you to make my quiche."
"But...but they could make it so much better tasting than I can, dear."
"And I'll keep telling you this: It only tastes better when I know for sure that you made it...when you make it, it's much more special to me."
Any further argument from him died with that. How could he say no to it? Realizing he's defeated, he hung his head and sighed.
"...As I was saying, we'll discuss this further during our...unscheduled feast."
"Unscheduled makes it better and friendlier!"
"How does that even...ah gods..."
Asgore certainly wasn't expecting a feast to be the very first thing that will help smooth things over, but there was no way he and Asriel would say no to the offer, that would be a bit rude of them. Of course they were grateful for the hospitality they were being shown, even though it took a bit of gentle convincing for them to do so.
And indeed, the two fluffy Dreemurrs were helping themselves. Eloise was eating rather eloquently-with actual utensils-and was under an impression that Toriel would be more graceful when eating...if she was here, the feline would be surprised. The likes of Gerson simply shook his head while the Pride were also helping themselves, half because they were genuinely hungry, and half because they feared it rude not to when they've come so far.
Well...obviously Parvos wasn't too fearful, but he didn't want his Aunt doing anything overly dramatic and irreparable for the sake of her Kingdom's redemption. That might be a major reason why he was here and not with his mother. He was a jerk, but a somewhat level-headed one.
When there was enough time to ease into the feast, the large fox spoke again. "I apologize for the lack of introduction on my part. I've no idea why, but my father has had advisers recommending names for me when he nor mother could think of one. He eventually settled for 'Tamotsu'." He turned towards his daughter, who was freely stuffing her face without a care in the world. "As for my daughter...her mother would go to name her a beautiful name...'Faryn'."
"Yo." Faryn waved nonchalantly, still more focused on her food at the moment.
Tamotsu sighed as he rested his chin in his paw. "I wasn't very fond of humanity long ago...so I was in for a surprise, due to how a human woman got me to fall in love with her...then have a daughter with her..." He trailed off with that. It was very clear what happened with the lack of said mother's presence, so they'd rather not push him into telling a story he'd rather not tell. A silent nod showed his appreciation for this.
Tamtosu continued on: "Regardless, we are not here to talk completely about me. You wish for Fortuna to regain Astus's trust, with the Dreemurr Faction acting as assistance?"
"That is correct. Whatever it takes." Eloise nodded.
"Eloise is putting her life on the line. Is there more you ask of her?" Gerson said with a hum.
"Hm...if you're so willing, I would like your assistance on several things." Tamotsu eventually decided. "If you are willing to reconcile, I shall honor it after these objectives are complete. The first would be a small but roomy town where travelers between the three Kingdoms come to rejuvenate during lengthy travels, or to simply deposit something for Astus to retrieve later. I believe several cabals will seek it's capture or destruction, disrupting what little connection we have to one another and putting many lives in danger. If I may ask, see if there is any danger there. And if so, please defend it."
That wasn't so had. They basically had to protect a checkpoint town from capture or destruction. It might be a lengthy objective, but not a particularly difficult one. Or it could be, depending on how badly they wanted it.
"You must be speaking of the remnant of Ratoveros forces as well. I figured they wouldn't disappear completely even with their main leader deceased."
"Hm. The next I would request is someone to accompany me." Tamotsu narrowed his eyes. "A magic fortress has been discovered somewhere, where the main leaders of the cabals threatening us may gather. Assist me in bringing them down."
"I believe Eloise and I can provide assistance on that matter. Gerson will come as well." Asgore hummed while stroking his beard. "If anything, this might be a high priority objective. We should see this through as soon as possible."
"Agreed. They might be gettin' bolder with time. Best to nip that in the bud before it gets any worse." Gerson nodded, coughing only slightly while beating his chest twice. "Guess we'll be doing some heavy liftin' with ya. I don't mind that at all."
"I'll be able to do this. I'm not as strong as my sister, but I'll definitely pull my weight. You'll see!" Eloise nodded firmly.
"Hey, you! Do you want some quiche? Plenty for all!~" Faryn leaned forward and held a slice of quiche towards Frisk. Blinking slightly, Frisk takes some quiche with a nod of thanks. Curious, he takes a bite of the quiche...and took the time to open his heterochromatic eyes so show them sparkling with glee.
"This quiche tastes amazing!"
"I know, right?! Quiche is the best!"
Frisk scratched his head a bit. "I think I remember, a long time ago. I found a quiche...abandoned and alone." Faryn gasped loudly with the urgency of a serious crime being committed before her, as if they weren't talking about a simple a lost pastry. "I mean, it was tasty..but there were some serious trust issues that it was never able to work out..."
"Ugh! Who would abandon a perfectly good quiche anyway?! I have half a mind to...ooooh!" Faryn pouted while shaking her head and lightly shaking her head. She calmed quickly and gazed at Frisk again. "Anyway, what was your name again?"
"Frisk."
"Frisk, huh. That name usually means frolic, hopping and leaping around. You like to frolic, Frisk?"
"When I'm feeling particularly happy, sometimes I do."
"Heh." Faryn chuckled, before turning over to look up towards her father. "Anyway, I'm gonna have an assignment too, right?~" Once again, her focus has shifted quickly. Tamotsu gazed at her in shock.
"Going out to fight? Absolutely not."
Faryn groaned, then faceplanted the table. She sounded more annoyed than actually being upset. She rose again with a pout. "You heard them! We keep standing by, it's gonna bite us in the tail in a big way later. And it's surely going to be worse than sticking our noses where they don't belong." She narrowed her eyes seriously. "I'm strong. I know it, you know it. And on top of that, I won't even be alone! So can you please just give me a chance to prove that I can do this?"
Tamotsu hesitated slightly. "Faryn...I..."
"If you say no to her going out to help people, she's going to find away around you so she can do so anyway." Asriel pointed out. Faryn grinned cheekily seconds afterwards, while Tamotsu sent him a questioning gaze. Asriel shrugged. "I'm a Prince, so it sounds like something I would do. And it definitely sounds like something Mom would do."
"Yes indeed. The more he grows, the more that stubborn streak from his mother truly rears it's fiery head in certain situations. Tori is the source, Frisk was the inspiration, and Undyne fuels it constantly." Asgore chuckled lightly. "But my son is right, Tamotsu. It is perhaps...'safer' to let your daughter participate than risk her sneaking out on her own."
"And you know that I can.~" Faryn added, her cheeky expression still wide and confident. Her father sighed at this while turning towards Asgore.
"There is some merit to these words..." He relented. "Very well, Faryn. If you so wish, then you may participate...but I do not want you alone during it. Whichever party you choose, you must stay with them."
"That's fair." She simply shrugged.
"I mean it, young lady."
"I hear you, Papa.~"
"Look me in the eyes and promise me."
"...Mmm, quiche.~" Her focus shifts again as she ditches the conversation subject entirely, this time getting right back to her food.
Tamotsu once again surrenders, sighing deeply and rubbing his temples. Keeping up with the Princess's thought process was almost impossible for a weary fox father like himself. And now he had to entrust her with a Prince and his two sworn brothers, all three looking like they could be just as reckless as she could be. Perhaps even worse.
Damn adolescence...
"Ahem. So we should divide our party as such." Gerson coughed to get them back on track. "As said, I shall go with Asgore, Tamotsu, and Eloise to the mage tower where several leaders of those troublemakers be hiding. Defeat them, they should stop bothering the Kingdom overall. Chase em off or capture. Complete elimination if neither works out." Asriel and Frisk flinched at that, but didn't vocally disagree.
"In that case, I will bring my nephew Parvos, as well as Shamir, to assist us." Eloise requested. "Ribras, Rasha, and Will, you three shall go with Asriel, Frisk, Chara, and Faryn to the town checkpoint and help them protect it from any possible attacks. Lesser Cat and Greater Cat will stay behind and help watch the Capital. I assume the magic walls will suffice against possible direct attack?"
"Indeed. Still, better safe than sorry." Tamotsu nodded. "Very well. We are all in agreement. We shall begin as soon as possible, with proper preparations."
Everyone nodded in agreement. Faryn looked particularly excited, stretching her arms as her ears and tail flickered. "Ah, finally! I can stretch my legs outside the walls of the capital for more than a few hours! This is gonna be a blast!" She grinned towards the Dreemurr Trio. "I'll be hanging out with you guys for a while, I hope we can watch each other's backs!"
"Likewise." Chara nodded.
"That's what friends do." Asriel smiled.
"We're more than happy to help out." Frisk smiled.
Faryn smiles right back, swiftly moving over and sliding an arm around Frisk. "That feeling is mutual, my comrade! I think we're both going to really enjoy this partnership!"
"I think so too!"
And with that, their feast ended, meaning they were reenergized and prepared to take down any enemy that might come there way, or vice versa. Two simultaneous assignments meant to gain the Astus's Kingdom's favor.
They had to succeed. They WILL succeed.
They were filled with Determination.
I've come to the observation that many an OC is coming our way through this world-building. Not to worry though, I have no intention of losing our main cast-at the moment, that would be Asriel, Asgore, Chara, Frisk, and Gerson-even if they are split from the other main cast members for a while. Not saying I'll be the best at it, but I'll definitely try. Focus will definitely be on them and how they react to things outside of Ebott. As they already see, things are quite different indeed.
Still, just to warn you, even though both MC groups set out this chapter, we won't be seeing Toriel's group for a while due to world-building for each Kingdom. I want to get one completely finished so I can eventually focus on the other. I'd say about four to five chapters in-this one being the first-that we'll switch entirely to what her group has been up to. Since River Person is a very swift means of transport for the gang, they would have taken her group and sent them to their own destination, with their own mission having begun by now. So the events for the two groups are very close together, but not happening at the exact same time.
I hope that makes sense.
Still no signs of RL taking me away for a long while for important stuff. To be honest, it's quite difficult to get started...I'm sure it'll work out though.
Oh, and as for the names of our newest OCs:
Tamotsu-Japanese; Means 'protect'
Faryn: English; Means 'adventurous'
It might be obvious from their names alone that they are...different. They love each other regardless...they're just not always on the same page.
Ah well. Until next time, readers! Adventure will be running a tiny bit late, but it'll certainly be there!