AberrantTale (Legacy)

by JaceEthaniel

After freeing monsters from the Underground, Frisk does their best to make everything right in a cruel world; but cruel is just the tip of the iceberg. The surface is plagued with magic infused creatures created by the Barrier Incident, forcing the near-extinct humans and monsters to fight for their lives; as evil forces plan their destruction from within the shadows.

31. is but a brief reprieve

:-"...is but a brief reprieve..."-:

Frisk wakes up partially and checks their phone out of habit, but it's still dead. 'I'll have to go talk to Alphys… The SOCDev isn't charging it for some reason… '

Frisk closes their eyes, but then remembers that Chara is sleeping in their room with them.

Re-opening their eyes, slowly, Frisk sees Chara sitting curled up, with their knees against their chest and their arms wrapped around themself, in the far corner beside the door.

They are looking at Frisk with a sad expression.

As soon as Chara notices that Frisk is awake and looking at them, they look down at their feet.

Frisk sits up and rubs their eyes, then yawns.

Not wanting to loose the warmth of their blanket, Frisk pulls it over themself like a cloak and slowly walks over to sit next to Chara.

A few minutes pass as the two sit together in silence.

Chara whispers, "(I do not deserve to be friends with someone like you…)"

Frisk replies, "(you can't choose who I'm friends with.)"

Continuing their self-destruction, Chara whispers, "(but I am a terrible person. I wanted to kill all those people, especially my par-.)"

Interrupting them, Frisk retorts, "(but you didn't.)"

Not able to keep quiet any more, Chara retorts, "only because Asriel st-."

Frisk interrupts again, making Chara a little angrier, "then he was a good friend. Now you get a second chance."

Chara doesn't respond, so Frisk continues, "So what if you want to kill everyone, people can be terrible… So what if you especially want to kill your parents, they probably did something really bad to you; I barely know your mom, and I already don't like her."

Silence, only interrupted by an occasional suppressed sniffle…

Frisk finishes their statement, "We all have homicidal thoughts sometimes, doesn't mean you have to act on them… Welcome to the Addams family, being homicidal is a family tradition."

At first, Chara remains silent… but the more they think, the more they disagree with Frisk.

Upset, Chara retorts, "you are a liar, Frisk. You are not homicidal, you refused to kill any of the monsters in the Underground. That is the opposite of homicidal! I was attached to your SOUL, so I know that you are the furthest from homicidal anyone can be."

Frisk stands up and moves to sit in front of Chara, and quietly asks, "what was the first thing I did when I a monster showed up?"

Chara looks to the side, and says, "that doesn't matter…"

Shaking their head, Frisk says, "yea it does. You were there, I'm sure you remember the first thing I did; what was it?"

With a huff, Chara says, "you brought up the Menu, so what?"

A moment of silence passes, Frisk is hesitating… "Yea, I pulled up the Menu… but that isn't all I did. I had to call out my SOUL too, and place it in the Menu. So, do you remember where I placed it, every single time?"

Chara doesn't reply.

Frisk turns their head away to look out of their window, then says, "I was always ready to fight. The first thing I did, with every single encounter, was decide if I should kill them or not."

Silence… Frisk continues. "There wasn't a single encounter where my first instinct wasn't to get ready to fight, not even with Toriel or that harmless training dummy she had me talk to."

Chara seems to be listening still, but isn't replying. Frisk continues, "I thought about some pretty terrible things. Things like, 'what'll happen if I just kill them all?' … You say I'm not homicidal, but you're wrong. The difference between you and me is that I chose not to kill anyone, while you chose to kill everyone. Now you have to make up for it."

The last statements make Chara feel really bad, so they curl up tighter. Frisk continues, "So, as punishment, I'm gonna be your friend. Why? Because you don't want me to."

Knocking is heard on the door, and Marceline can be herd behind it. "(Frisk, Chara, time for breakfast.)"

Frisk gets up, excited for breakfast, and goes to leave; but they stop and look at Chara who hasn't moved.

Chara sighs, "being alive sucks. Needing to eat, sleep, and having all these stupid emotions…"

Slowly, Chara stands and wipes their face, then says, "if you tell anyone I was crying, I'll give you a wedgie you wont forget…"

Frisk nods and guides Chara to help them get ready for the day, then goes to the dining room to eat; they opt out of changing out of their pajamas, because today is Saturday… they think.

Their mother chastising them confirms it, "Frisk, my dearest child, just because it is Saturday doesn't mean you get to keep your Pajamas on during breakfast; go get changed."

Upset, Frisk complains, "but mooom! They're so comfy!"

Marceline points to Frisk's room and restates, "go get changed."

Chara snickers as Frisk, with their head drooping sadly, slowly walks back to their room to get changed.

Marceline lays down the law for Chara as well, "you need to change too, Chara. Just because you didn't wear Pajamas last night doesn't mean you don't have to change. Dirty clothes are dirty clothes. There is a change of clothes for you in your room."

Chara stops their snickering and replies, "yes ma'am," then goes to their room to change.

Asriel comes out of his room slowly, after Chara leaves, and gets Marceline's attention, "Mrs. Addams, can… Can I eat somewhere else? I… don't want to cause any problems…"

Marceline pats Asriel's head and replies, "darling little Asriel… Please, call me Marceline; no need to be so formal. As for the dining situation… No, we will eat together, or we will not eat at all."

Asriel looks down at his feet with a sad face and says, "well, then, I'll… I'll just go to my room. You guys can eat without me."

As Asriel prepares to leave, Marceline gently grabs his arm, "Asriel, I feel there has been a misunderstanding. Either we all eat together, or no one eats; do you understand?"

Confused, Asriel asks, "wait… So… If I don't eat with everyone, then you wont let anyone eat?"

Marceline nods.

Asriel sighs, "you're as scary as my mom, Mrs-… Uh, Marceline."

Marceline replies, "well, I am a mother."

While Asriel is taking his place at the table, Frisk and Chara are coming from their rooms in fresh clean clothes.

Frisk comes out wearing a black dress their mother got them, they are not sure when but it must have been recently. This one is less formal than their other one. Though mostly simple, the hem, collar, and cuffs all end with frilly spider-web like crochet patterns on them.

They're also wearing black and white striped socks.

Marceline is the first to comment, "ah, I see you are trying the dress I sneaked into your wardrobe last night. I saw it while getting clothes for Chara and Asriel, and I thought that you might like it… but I wanted it to be a surprise."

The mystery is solved. Frisk comments, "the ends are like little spider webs, so I like them."

Now sitting at the table, Frisk looks and sees that Chara has stopped at the entrance to the kitchen/dining room.

Chara and Asriel are looking at each other… sort of. They are both looking/not-looking.

Frisk pats the seat next to them, as Marceline sits at the head of the table near Asriel.

Taking the cue, Chara walks over slowly and sits next to Frisk, then comments, "your dress is cute, Frisk."

Asriel chimes in, "y-yea… It's nice. It… uh… Really brings out your eyes…?"

Marceline giggles as Frisk comments, "OK, but my eyes are on my face; so… how does that work?"

Embarrassed, Asriel replies, "uh, right… I guess I just… don't know what to say."

Chara teases, "smoooth."

Offended, Asriel sticks out his tongue… then notices Frisk flinch.

He's only curious for a moment before he finds that his tongue is unable to return to his mouth, and he can taste human fingers holding it…

Then he realizes that he's sitting next to Marceline, and she has grabbed his tongue.

The other children sit up straight, as Marceline says, "now now, children. No bickering at the table. Asriel… Your tongue is for tasting food, so why was I able to grab it?"

Marceline lets go of his tongue, and gestures for everyone to begin eating.

Beyond the clinking of silverware on their dishes, silence dominates the room.

Chara is taken aback at seeing Frisk openly playing with their food… "Frisk, you shouldn't play with your food."

Marceline interjects, before Frisk can comment, "perhaps that is what your mother taught you, but the Addams do not follow such silly rules. Food is meant to be enjoyed. As long as you eat it before it gets cold, there is no problem."

After everyone is done eating, and cleaning the dishes, Frisk declares, "I want to go to Stag Hill today. I miss dad…"

Considering that, Marceline comments, "but what of your new friends? They will have to stay behind, will they not? After all, if they go back they may be seen. If they are seen, their parents may hear about them. They will have to return eventually, but don't you think it would be best that we watch over them for a while first?"

Asriel begins to say something, but Chara interrupts unwittingly, "I don't mind spending some time by myself. It'll give me some time to practice… stuff. Also think. I have a lot of thinking to do."

Hesitantly, Asriel beings speaking again. "I… I want to see my parents. But… I don't know if I should do that yet."

Frisk comments, "I'm pretty sure your parents are in the monster town still, and, since humans are being really stupid over there, we probably won't be able to leave the manor anyway."

Unexpectedly, Asriel is a little disappointed by that. "Oh, well… that's okay then, I guess. I'll go with."

Frisk nods, then looks at Chara.

Chara turns away slightly and crosses their arms, saying, "I would rather be alone for a while."

With their decisions made, Marceline says, "then I will stay and keep you company, Chara. It would be irresponsible for me to leave you completely alone, even if you end up staying in your room."

Frisk gets ready to leave for the manor, and Marceline remembers that Catarina is going to visit some time today. "Frisk, don't forget that Catarina is going to stop by today to talk with you. I know you may be reluctant, but I think it would be good for you to talk with someone about everything. Best to be home by lunch."

Exasperatedly, Frisk replies, "yes mom, I'll remember…"

Then they switch to an excited tone, "c'mon Asriel! Last one there's a rotten egg!"

Frisk Interacts with the door and brings up a Selection Menu, since they don't know which colour is for which location. Using their Menus again brings back old memories…

They select "Addams Family Manor" and the dial switches to black.

Upon opening the door, Frisk is greeted with the manor's lobby.

Frisk notices that Asriel is hesitating, and possibly second guessing going to the manor, so they grab his hand and pull him through the door.

Chara decides to sit in the living room and think.

Marceline also stays in the living room, but she decides to pick up a book.

:-:

Frisk and Asriel arrive in the manor without incident. Asriel, not having seen the manor's interior before, is in awe of how large it is inside.

Excitement washes away his worries, as he looks around. "Golly, Frisk, your house is really nice! And it's bigger than Home and Newhome, combined!"

Still holding his hand, Frisk pulls him forward, "c'mon, I wanna show you around!"

Conrad, hearing the commotion, calls out, "Frisk, is that you?"

Frisk yells out, playfully, "Yes, Conrad Addams! It is I, your arch rival! You will know death and pain this day, or my name isn't Frisk the 'magical-anime-princess-warrior!'"

Letting go of Asriel's hand, Frisk runs back to the umbrella holder near the door and pulls out a toy rapier that looks more real than it should.

Asriel is feeling increasingly worried and uncomfortable, since he cannot tell if it's a toy or not.

But, before Asriel can do anything, someone, presumably Conrad, slides down the railing on the stairs with a rapier in hand.

With a short hop at the end, to get off the railing with flair, Conrad takes up a fencing stance and says, "En garde!"

The two begin sparring, and Asriel can do nothing but keep his distance. 'At least Frisk looks like they're having fun…?'

Frisk thrusts forward, but it's parried.

Conrad replies with two swift thrusts, but Frisk dodges one and parries the other.

They go on like this for several minutes, almost dancing, with neither landing any decisive blows, until Conrad inevitably lands a "hit" on Frisk; in reality, however, the rapier is under Frisk's armpit.

Frisk feigns a dramatic demise, which Asriel believes at first… "Uurk! No! C-Curse you Conrad Addams! You've… You've foiled my plans…! Yet again! BLEH!"

It becomes quite obvious, however, that Frisk is faking.

Conrad picks Frisk up off the floor and dusts them off, "you shouldn't be so dramatic in such a pretty dress Frisk… By the way, who is your friend here?"

Asriel works up the courage to talk, "I'm… uh, Asriel. I'm guessing… you're Frisk's dad?"

With a straight face, Conrad says, "Frisk's dad? No no no, I'm just the family butler."

Asriel is confused…

Frisk replies, "Daaad! Stop teasing Asriel!"

Conrad, still holding Frisk in his arms, starts to tickle their belly, while saying, "I can tease whoever I want."

Frisk laughs at being tickled, while trying to break away and tickle Conrad back.

It doesn't work.

Conrad puts Frisk down after a few moments, and gives Asriel a short bow, "It is nice to meet you, Asriel Dreemurr. I must say, you are far less terrifying than our historical records say you are supposed to be."

Asriel scratches the back of his head and replies, "uh… thanks?"

Frisk, not wanting to waste any time, grabs Asriel's hand again and pulls him with them as they go upstairs, while saying "I'm gonna give Asriel a tour, you should join us dad!"

Conrad follows behind with both the toy rapiers.

Frisk, their hostage, and their dad walk through the second story hallway. As they do so, Frisk points out all the rooms.

They eventually run into Papyrus.

Frisk is super confused at first, but then they remember that the Papyrus at the Sanctum is because of time travel shenanigans.

Papyrus speaks up first, "FRISK! I HAVEN'T SEEN YOU IN EXACTLY… ACTUALLY I FORGOT HOW MANY SECONDS IT HAS BEEN, BUT IT HAS BEEN QUITE A LONG TIME!"

Papyrus notices Asriel, and his face turns to one of worry and surprise. "FRISK! W-WHAT HAPPENED TO THE KING?! WHERE ARE HIS HORNS? WHY IS HE SO SMALL?! … HE'S… HE'S…"

Papyrus gets all googly eyed, "SO ADORABLE!"

With that statement however, Asriel looks at Papyrus with confusion.

Due to that, Papyrus decides that "Asgore" probably wouldn't want to be thought of as adorable, so he panics… "(OH NO, FRISK, HE PROBABLY DOESN'T WANT US TO THINK HE IS ADORABLE…) *AHEM* NOT TO WORRY TOTALLY-MANLY AND NOT-ADORABLE KING ASGORE! I WILL DISCOVER WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU, OR I AM NOT THE GREAT PAPYRUS! WHICH I AM!"

He then runs off before anyone can explain.

Asriel looks at Frisk with an eyebrow raised.

Frisk shrugs.

Conrad chuckles, and says, "I'll go get Papyrus and clear up the confusion, you two continue without me. Oh, Frisk… The traps in the last half of the hallway are active still. You remember how to deal with them, don't you?"

Frisk nods.

Conrad pats Frisk's head and says, "have fun. I'll meet you in the living room," then departs.

:-:

Marceline finishes her book, and sets it aside.

The bookmark she is using hasn't moved at all, because, in truth, she wasn't actually reading.

Having overheard the children this morning, she is quite worried about Chara.

So she has been trying to think about how to approach the situation.

Not wanting to delay it too much, Marceline asks, "Chara, would you be willing to talk about what happened before you ran away?"

Chara responds immediately, but calmly, "no… Ma'am."

Marceline, hoping to get a different answer, says, "Chara, I can't help you if I don't know what happened. Would you please reconsider?"

Sighing, Chara gets up and goes to their room, saying, "you can't help me, no one can."

Not wanting to push Chara further away, Marceline opts to not pursue it any more.

A knock on the door gets her attention. "Coming!"

Marceline opens the door and sees Catarina, who says, "hello Mrs… Ah, I mean, hello Marceline. Is Frisk available?"

Shaking her head, Marceline replies, "no, Frisk is not here at the moment."

Attempting to explain where Frisk currently is, and how it is possible, has become quite an unexpected issue…

Marceline gets the feeling that she shouldn't tell just anyone about the device Sans hooked up to the door, let alone that it lets them travel to Stag Hill instantly.

She isn't sure why.

Catarina waves her hand, asking, "uh, Marceline? Are you OK?"

Marceline gives a sly smile, "of course, just lost in thought. I would tell you where Frisk is currently, but I'm afraid I do not know. They went out to play with a… friend."

Remembering what the Elder said when he dropped Chara off, however, Marceline adds on, "but, I do have something I need to talk to you about… Perhaps it would be best discussed in your office, if you don't mind."

Catarina isn't sure why Marceline is being sly and withholding information, nor why speaking in her apartment wouldn't be private enough, but she humours her nonetheless. "That would be fine. Please, follow me… Though, your apartment would probably suffice for private discussions."

Teasingly, Marceline replies, "you're not my type, darling; but I'm flattered."

Embarrassed, Catarina replies, "t-that's…! I didn't mean it like that!"

Marceline chuckles.

Walking quickly, Catarina departs, saying, "please, follow me to my office."

The walk there is relatively short, considering it could have been on the other side of the Sanctum.

Her office is small and tidy, and void of anything that would give it personality.

Marceline comments, "this is awfully dreary, I think it could use a touch of cobwebs. Perhaps a cauldron in the corner."

Catarina cuts to the chase, and says "I don't use this office normally… Now, what do you need to talk about?" She then gestures to the two chairs in front of her desk, as she takes a seat in the one behind it and pulls out a well worn clipboard and a pencil.

Once seated, Marceline says, "It's… about Chara."

Considering the information, Catarina asks, "who is Chara?"

Confused, Marceline asks, "pardon, I assumed that you knew their name. One of the Elders dropped Chara off, and told me to come to you if there was anything that seemed wrong. He said you would be the best to go to, since you were part of the ritual that brought them back to life."

The pencil Catarina has falls out of her hand, as she stares off into space and comes to the realization that what she experienced was not, in fact, a dream.

Marceline waits for her to regain her composure.

After a few moments, Catarina picks up her pencil. "I'm terribly sorry… that was… I had assumed that was just a dream. I actually… That isn't important right now… What about Chara?"

Grimly, Marceline replies, "I have a feeling that their home life was… significantly less than ideal. Call it a mother's intuition. Their behaviour so far is… distant, especially so when it comes to interacting with adults. Of course, I admit that I have not interacted with them for long, but these are my observations thus far. It should also be noted that Chara, well… how should I put this… They are… aggressively 'not fond' of their parents."

Catarina writes on the clipboard, and replies, "I see… Well, we cannot jump to any conclusions. I have a free schedule today, so I should be able to talk with them too. In fact, I could probably talk to them at the same time as I talk with Frisk. See how they interact with different people. Then I can recommend…"

Sighing, Catarina stops talking for a moment.

Marceline asks, "another therapist?"

With a nod, Catarina says, "yes, but, I just remembered what you said a moment ago. Oh, before I forget, the reason I came over so early is because everyone in the Sanctum is quite excited… and also worried. You see, something happened with the Barrier recently, and magic is coming back; so I wanted to check on Frisk, just in case. Since they are not available, have you noticed anything about them recently that has worried you?"

Thinking back to when the barrier started shining brighter than normal, Marceline replies, "perhaps… The night the barrier started to shine brilliantly, Frisk dozed off in the window sill while looking out at the scenery; which is out of character for them. Not long after, they began to yell out and move around while in their sleep. I couldn't understand what they were saying, but I could tell it was a cry for help."

Catarina takes more notes on her clipboard, "I see. Well, that is something I can work with; thank you."

Marceline gives a small nod. "Of course, and thank you for humouring me. I fear that if we had talked in my apartment-"

Interrupting her, Catarina gently waves her hand in front of her and says, "no need to worry."

Beating Catarina to the punch, Marceline says, "Frisk expects you to arrive at around lunch, so that will be the best time to speak with them." She then stands and curtsies, saying, "thank you again, Catarina," and departs back to her apartment.

Catarina stops Marceline from leaving, saying, "before you go, I just remembered something. I doubt the guards will let Frisk out of the Sanctum, but we are expecting a large rush of Wälder beasts soon. It seems the change in the Barrier has caused their migration path to change again."

:-:

Asriel, whose fur is now sticking out all over the place, due to some sticky substance from the traps in the last room, asks, "uhm, Frisk? Is there a way to get all this stuff out of my fur?"

Looking back, Frisk giggles, having not noticed before. "Sorry Asriel… I think my dad might know how to get it out."

Hopeful, Asriel asks, "do you think we could go ask him now?"

Nodding, Frisk replies, "yea, the tour is over anyway. The ballroom was the last place I wanted to show you."

Frisk starts heading to the living room, and Asriel follows.

Upon arriving Frisk sees Papyrus thinking rather hard, as their father is talking to him.

Then something sparkly catches their attention… It's Mettaton.

He wheels over, "FRISK! MY OH MY… AREN'T YOU LOOKING AB-SO-LUTELY FABULOUS~! YOU'RE NOT TRYING TO OUT SHINE ME, ARE YOU BEAUTIFUL?"

Frisk shakes their head, "no one can be more fabulous than you, Mettaton."

Feigning being bashful, Mettaton replies, "OH YOU! FLATTERY WILL GET YOU… RIGHT INTO MY HEART! HOW'D YOU KNOW? AH, AND I SEE YOU'VE MADE A NEW FLUFFY FRIEND!"

Asriel waves, "Hi, I'm Asriel."

Mettaton replies, shocked, "THE ASRIEL? AS IN, 'ASRIEL DREEMURR?' WE SHOULD DO A SHOW TOGETHER SOMETIME! WE CAN CALL IT…"

He wheels closer to Asriel, wraps an arm around his shoulders, and says, while gesturing at an imaginary billboard, "'ASRIEL MEETS THE STAR OF STARS! FEATURING YOURS TRULY, METTATON, THE STAR OF STARS!' OR! WE COULD CALL IT 'STARSTRUCK ASRIEL! FEATURING METTATON!"

Asriel gives a hesitant and uncomfortable smile, then scoots behind Frisk a little. He's feeling rather overwhelmed by Mettaton's… presence. "Uh… Golly, I'm… I'm not sure that's a good idea."

Frisk, not worried, pulls Asriel over to their father and says, "hey dad, Asriel needs help getting the sticky stuff out of his fur. We went through all the traps, and I guess I was too excited to notice… Sorry Asriel."

Shrugging, Asriel replies, "it's okay, at least you didn't… Uh, heh, n-nevermind."

Conrad pauses his discussion with Papyrus, and replies, "Oh, that's easy. He merely needs to take a warm bath… Wait! No, that activates the acid… Hold on, let me go get my notes."

As Conrad gets up to leave, he stops and says, "ah! I remember! Sugar water with baking soda. The glue is based on gum, so adding extra sugar will cause it to break down. The baking soda will neutralize the acid. I will help you prepare the correct amount. We don't have a lot of sugar, nor baking soda."

Frisk nods, "OK, c'mon Asriel. Oh, hey Mettaton, when we get back, I'd like to ask you some questions."

Mettaton replies, "OF COURSE BEAUTIFUL, I'LL BE RIGHT HERE! TOODLES!"

Conrad remarks, "Frisk, why don't you stay here and catch up? I can take Asriel to help him get cleaned up. We are going to have to use a tub."

Excited, but also disappointed, Frisk says, "Okay."

With that, Conrad and Asriel leave.

Frisk turns to Mettaton and asks, "I didn't expect you to be here still, are you having trouble adjusting the antenna?"

Offended, Mettaton replies, with dramatic poses, "ME? HAVING TROUBLE WITH A SILLY ANTENNA? NO WAY DARLING. I'VE NOTICED A HORRIBLE PROBLEM! AN ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE PROBLEM!"

Mettaton pauses for dramatic effect, waiting for Frisk to ask what the problem is.

Curious, Frisk asks, "what is it?"

With even more exaggerated gestures and poses, Mettaton says, "THEY DON'T HAVE TVS! HOW ARE THEY GOING TO APPRECIATE MY FABULOUS BODY, WITHOUT TVS?!"

Another pause for dramatic effect…

Frisk shrugs.

Mettaton continues, "SIMPLE DARLING! I JUST HAD TO GIVE THEM TVS! BUT ALAS, TVS ALONE ARE NOT ENOUGH! THEY DON'T HAVE A PROPER SOURCE OF POWER! WHAT EVER COULD WE DO?!"

The answer is pretty obvious… Frisk answers, "give them power?"

Excited, Mettaton exclaims, "EXACTLY, BEAUTIFUL! SO I SET UP A POWER GRID, GIVING ALL MY FUTURE FANS A WAY TO USE THEIR NEW TVS TO WATCH MY BIG DEBUT! I'M ALSO INSTALLING MTT BRAND A/CS, HEATERS, AND FRIDGES IN THEIR HOMES (MTT BRAND FOOD NOT INCLUDED). THAT WAY THEY CAN COMFORTABLY WATCH MY FABULOUS SELF ALL YEAR ROUND! IN FACT, I'M ALREADY DONE INSTALLING THE A/CS!"

Despite seeming so self-absorbed, Frisk thinks that Mettaton is being quite charitable… Then they realize that it's definitely just a plot to get a bunch of dedicated fans.

Frisk responds, curious, "wait, but… humans here don't trust monsters. How'd you get them to let you do all of that?"

Waggling a finger, Mettaton replies, "OH DARLING, YOU NEEDN'T WORRY ABOUT THAT. I'M VERY PERSUASIVE!"

Papyrus, who has been quiet this whole time, says, "AND BY THAT, HE MEANS HE HAS BEEN BREAKING INTO EVERYONE'S HOMES AND SETTING IT ALL UP ANYWAY! I KEEP TELLING HIM TO STOP, BUT HE JUST KEEPS DOING IT! HE WON'T EVEN LET ME JOIN HIM!"

Mettaton replies, "PAPYRUS, DEAR… NO OFFENCE, BUT YOU WOULDN'T MAKE IT. CAN'T YOU SEE ALL THE SCUFFS ON ME? THEY ARE QUIET VIOLENT SOMETIMES."

Frisk examines Mettaton closer… 'Yep, looks like people tried hurting him. Good thing this body is indestructible.'

Realizing that they haven't seen Thing anywhere, Frisk asks, "hey, where's Thing? Did she go back to the monster town?"

Papyrus answers before Mettaton can, "OH, THING IS OUT RIGHT NOW TALKING TO THE ELDER. SHE IS TRYING TO MAKE WHAT METTATON IS DOING MORE LEGAL."

Mettaton cuts in and comments, "I'M SURE THEY WILL FORGIVE ME. ESPECIALLY AFTER THEY ARE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF SEEING ME ON TV!"

Papyrus continues, "ALSO… I MAY HAVE… CAUSED SOME PROBLEMS?"

Nervously tapping the tips of his gloves together, Papyrus puts on a nervous smile and continues, "I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE A GOOD IDEA TO MAKE PUZZLES FOR THE KIDS, ON THEIR WAY TO SCHOOL, BUT… IT WOULD APPEAR THAT…"

He hesitates, so Frisk asks, "what happened?"

Hesitantly, Papyrus continues, "WELL, IT APPEARS THAT I AM FAR TOO GOOD AT MAKING MAZES. SO… NONE OF THE CHILDREN WERE ABLE TO GET TO SCHOOL…"

Frisk giggles, "I bet the kids got lost on purpose, don't worry Papyrus. Anything that gets them out of school is welcome for them. I wouldn't be surprised if they secretly admired you now."

More upbeat, Papyrus asks, "R-REALLY? WHEW, THAT'S A RELIEF! CONCERNING, BUT STILL A RELIEF. HMM I WILL HAVE TO TEACH THEM THE JOY OF LEARNING, THROUGH PUZZLES! YES… FROM NOW ON, I WILL PREPARE A FULL LEARNING COURSE THAT MUST BE COMPLETED IN ORDER TO EXIT THE MAZE!"

Frisk doesn't think that is a good idea, but they don't say anything… They're sure it'll be OK. Besides, they think all the other kids deserve it.

They realize something more important needs to be taken care of, so they say, "I've gotta go ask my dad about talking to the Elder, there's something important I need to ask him…"

Papyrus waves goodbye and says, "OK FRISK. I NEED TO PRACTICE SAYING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AGAIN ANYWAY!"

Mettaton seems to have gotten distracted by something else… 'Ah, he found a mirror. I'll leave him to himself.'

Frisk departs to the kitchen, thinking that would be where Conrad and Asriel are, but no one is there.

Opting out of searching the whole manor, and not wanting to potentially catch Asriel in a tub, Frisk uses the brass pipes to get them to go to the lobby.

Once done, Frisk goes to the lobby and waits.

It takes a few minutes, but eventually Conrad and Asriel walk out from one of the second story hallways. Asriel looks like he just took a bath, and Conrad is carrying a couple small wooden boxes.

Excited, Asriel runs over, leans his head forward, and points at it, saying, "Frisk! Frisk! Feel my head!"

Confused, Frisk pets Asriel on the head… it's warm and fluffy from being recently cleaned, so they comment, "nice and fluffy."

Asriel shakes his head, "no, that isn't what I wanted you to feel, check again."

This time, Asriel takes one of Frisk's hands and guides it to a spot on the top of his head, just behind his forehead and near his ear.

Frisk can feel a bump, "huh… Still nice and fluffy."

Frustrated, Asriel moves their hand over to the other side of his head, "no, try again! It should feel… different than the rest of my head."

Taking full advantage of his desire to show them that his horns are starting to grow, Frisk pets his head more, "Nope, still fluffy."

Deciding to just tell Frisk what he wants them to feel for, he says, "my horns are growing in! Can't you feel them?"

Frisk pretends to think for a moment, then asks, "are you sure? I didn't feel anything, let me check again."

Asriel replies, "Okay, but you have to take it seriously!"

Frisk nods, and Asriel lowers his head again for Frisk to reach easier.

After thoroughly petting his head, Frisk declares, "I see what you mean now. This part of your head isn't just fluffy…-"

Excited, Asriel interrupts, "exactly my-!"

Frisk interrupts him, as they continue, "it's Super fluffy… With a hint of sugar and baking soda… and lavender?"

Frustrated, because he doesn't really mind being pet on the head, but also because he wants Frisk to take it seriously, Asriel crosses his arms and turns away. "If you won't take it seriously, then I'll just have to show someone else."

Conrad chuckles for a moment, and asks, "Frisk, you wanted to ask me something?"

Nodding, Frisk says, "yea, I wanted to know if I could talk to the Elder about something. It's important."

Taking on a thoughtful pose, Conrad considers the request, then replies, "I think that would be alright. Things have considerably settled down since Mettaton showed up. It has only taken him a couple days to win over most of the villagers, and all he had to do was forcefully start to provide them with comfortable living conditions. He even ignored the humans that attacked him, saying that they will 'thank [him] later, after they see how fabulous [he] look[s] on TV!' What a character!"

Conrad laughs, then says grimly, with a sly smile, "I swear, that robot is crazy… I like him."

Taking a more casual tone, Conrad asks, "So, when would you like to talk to the Elder?"

Not wanting to waste time, Frisk says, "right now would be best. I have an appointment at lunch with a therapist. I'm not looking forward to it, but I'd rather not be late."

Conrad chuckles again, "well, just remember Frisk, you have to open your wounds to clean them out. If you don't, they could get infected. Do you understand?"

Frisk nods.

Patting Frisk on the head, Conrad says, "good. Now, I think it would be best for Asriel to stay here while we go out. Though things have calmed down, some people are still extra rowdy."

Asriel, somewhat disappointed, says, "that's fine. I'll just find something to do here while you're gone. I… need some time before my parents know I'm back anyway."

Frisk suggests, "why don't you properly meet Papyrus?"

Shrugging, Asriel says, "yea, I guess I should, huh? See ya later."

The two wave goodbye, as Conrad guides Frisk out of the Manor to the Town Hall.

:-:

The first thing Frisk notices when they leave the manor are the shoddy wooden barricades around it.

Conrad explains before Frisk can ask, "some of the villagers thought we were working with the monsters to kill all the humans, but that was quickly shut down when others pointed out how much we have done to keep everyone alive. I decided to keep the barricades up."

A couple guards approach to ask Conrad where they are going, but one looks down and notices Frisk, and asks, "I swear I saw Frisk go to the Sanctum with Marceline and Bernard, how are they here?!"

Frisk bluntly replies, "magic."

The guard now feels silly for having asked that, and simply replies, "oh… well, welcome back!"

Shrugging, Frisk says, "I won't be here for long, just want to spend time with my dad. Also need to speak to the Elder."

Nodding, the guard replies, "very well, follow us."

Frisk and Conrad follow the guards through the village.

It looks much different than Frisk remembers.

A lot of the houses look better built, and they all have what Frisk assumes are power lines connecting them.

They arrive at the Town hall sooner than expected, but Frisk realizes they just didn't notice time go by since they were focusing on all the buildings.

Upon entering, they are greeted by Stacy. "Oh! Hello Frisk, I didn't expect to see you again so… soon. Wait… Is everything alright?"

Frisk nods, and replies, "yea. I'm here because of magic. Is the Elder available? I need to talk to him, alone, about something important."

Stacy looks through some of her papers and comments, "Oh, how fortunate, it seems the Elder is just about to finish his appointment with Thing. If you don't mind, you may wait here and I will go speak with him."

Frisk nods and sits on one of the couches in the lobby.

Conrad does too, and asks, "Frisk, if you don't mind my asking, what do you want to talk to the Elder about?"

Putting a finger to their mouth, Frisk says, "it's a secret… It has something to do with someone at the Sanctum, and also one of the councillors."

Deciding to trust Frisk, Conrad replies, "ah, so you are investigating something. I see. Well, my little star, I'm sure it must be very important; just be careful, alright?"

Frisk nods.

The two wait until Thing enters the Lobby from the back rooms. It takes a few minutes.

Thing comments, "Oh, Frisk, what a pleasant surprise. I would like to let you know that I have been doing my best in your absence, but I do eagerly await your return as ambassador for monsters. There is only so much I can do thanks to the… violent sentiment in the village. I don't suppose you are here to stay?"

Frisk shakes their head, "nope, this is just a visit. I need to talk to the Elder."

Thing curtsies, "well enjoy. I'm sure you have seen all the changes in the village. I think Things are really starting to look up, thanks to Papyrus… Oh, and Mettaton too I guess. I have something to attend to, so we will have to chat later."

Frisk waves goodbye, then gets up and waits near the hallway.

After a few moments, Stacy comes back from speaking with the Elder and waves for Frisk to follow.

Conrad stays behind.

Stacy guides Frisk to a small meeting room with the Elder waiting inside, alone.

The Elder is sitting at a well worn desk, which has a single worn chair in front of it.

He stands and bows in greeting, "hello Frisk."

Frisk bows back, "hello Elder."

The Elder waves Stacy away as he sits and gestures for Frisk to sit, then he says, "now that we have the formalities out of the way… What you want to talk about must be quite important, for you to come all the way back here. I'm pleased, and flattered honestly, that you trust my wisdom. What do you need to talk about?"

Sitting down and taking on a subtly sad expression, Frisk says, "it's about… a friend of mine."

The Elder leans forward and rests his chin on one of his hands, preparing to listen to what Frisk has to say, and he replies, "I see. Well, I am not sure if I can be of any help… but you must have a reason for asking."

Frisk nods, and says, "yea, they ran away from home to get away from their parents…"

The Elder waits patiently, feeling as though Frisk has more to say.

His guess was correct, as Frisk continues, "I'm worried about them, because… my friend not only hates their parents, but they hate everyone else too."

Sitting a bit more upright, the Elder replies, "I assume you are worried about what will happen when your friend returns to their parents?"

Frisk shakes their head, and says, "they don't want to return to their parents."

Taking a more serious expression, the Elder leans back and says, "I see… I am not sure how I can help, Frisk. They will have to return to their parents eventually… Unless, perhaps, they were to sign up for lessons at the Sanctum. That would give them a good excuse to stay away, and also provide ample opportunities to seek out therapy… Hmm… No, that will not work. They would need somewhere to stay, and I already gave you our last Accommodations Voucher. We are only permitted so many per year."

Frisk doesn't remember getting a voucher, so they ask, "what voucher? My family has-"

Catching on quickly, the Elder leans forward slightly and puts a finger to his mouth, then interrupts them, "well, even if I did have a voucher, they can only be used for specific, exceptional, reasons; and for children, I would require their parent's permission. So, perhaps it was just not meant to be after all."

He gives Frisk a smile and a wink, then continues, "Now, Frisk, I am assuming at least one of the parents of your friend is one of the councillors here?"

Frisk is momentarily surprised that the Elder managed to catch on to that… "Uhm… Well… Yes and no."

Leaning back in his chair again, the Elder puts the pieces together and says, "I see. Yes, that makes sense. I think I know who you are talking about, and, to be honest, that councillor's actions have been worrisome after their child went missing, but especially worrisome after their spouse's unexpected death. They have since gotten better, and so I have not looked into them, but perhaps I should have."

The Elder strokes his beard in thought, and replies, "Now… I have other business I must attend to, so I am afraid this is farewell for now. Take care, Frisk. And tell your friend I wish them the best."

Standing from his desk, the Elder gives a short bow. Frisk does as well.

The two leave the room together, but the Elder goes a different direction than Frisk.

When Conrad sees Frisk return, he asks, "how did it go? Did you get what you needed?"

Frisk thinks on what the Elder said, and replies, "maybe. I have to find something first… I probably left it in my room."

Conrad pats Frisk's head and says, "well then, let's go home."

Frisk nods, and they depart.

Walking back to the manor is uneventful, until Frisk hears a loud noise from the sky.

Looking up, Frisk can see that the aircraft is returning… It passes Stag hill though, and appears to be going to Home town.

Frisk wonders what Alphys is up to.

Conrad and Frisk arrive at the Manor faster than Frisk expects.

Rushing in to the manor to check their room, Frisk nearly runs into Papyrus and Asriel.

It looks like they are playing pretend.

Papyrus speaks up first, "GREETINGS AGAIN, FRISK! WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN MINI-ASGORE AND I IN A GAME OF MAKE BELIEVE?"

Frisk looks at Asriel, he shrugs with a slight "I've given up" smile.

Shaking their head, Frisk says, "I have to go do something, maybe later."

Asriel looks a little upset, but Papyrus cheerily replies, "ALRIGHT, I WILL SAVE YOU A SEAT! MINI-ASGORE, FASTEN YOUR SEATBELT! OUR NEXT STOP IS… IMAGI-NATION! NYEH HEH HEH HEH HEH!"

The two depart on an imaginary train, which is less imaginary thanks to Papyrus' magic bones.

Frisk makes their way to their room and checks for any loose papers.

… After several minutes, they don't find anything.

They decide to check the night stand again, and notice a piece of parchment sticking out weirdly when they open the drawer this time.

Further inspection shows that the paper some how got under the drawer.

Frisk removes the paper carefully. It's the voucher they were looking for.

Deciding to keep it very safe, Frisk puts it in their pocket.

Frisk's Pockets: SnowPiece, Hot Dog…?, Stained Apron, Ribbon, Frying pan, .

Frisk realizes that they no longer need the "Hot Dog…?," so they decide to get rid of it somehow.

They also plug their phone in.

With their tasks completed, Frisk tracks down their father to spend some quality time with him.

He is in his study, working on some paperwork. Probably going over the medical supply lists, or studying some procedures.

Frisk knocks on the doorway, and Conrad looks up to greet them, "hello my little star, is there something you need?"

Frisk shakes their head.

Conrad replies, "I see, you just want to spend some time with me?"

Frisk nods.

Conrad waves Frisk over, and Frisk gets in his lap to cuddle with him.

Frisk feels safe.

:-:

* The sound of their father doing paperwork as they cuddle with him, fills Frisk with Determination.