I do not own Undertale

With a gentle whirring and clicking of a light, did a person sit down almost heavily and give a slight groan. The couple of weeks of school had been a bit of a choir. But now, things seemed to finally clear up. Though they glared at their bag and began to get out a number of books to place on the desk. Some after-school projects that they had to do.

Though as they looked at the now active computer, typing a password to log in, the user went about getting a few programs up. Mostly for the work to be done later. Though they paused and looked at the small heart icon on their desktop, and flicked their gaze from their schoolwork, to the game.

After a moment they figured, why not? They needed a break after all.

When Elzia woke in the morning, she did so with an odd feeling in herself. Slowly, she began to drag herself out of the warm comforter and soft bed, later to get her glasses and get them on. Notebook and phone soon followed, but her bag left where it was at least for now as she got changed into some newer clothes. And not long after, got her bag and left outside her room.

For a moment, Elzia stopped and considered what she was doing. For an odd moment, she... Wanted to go out. But out where? She shook her head and thought about going back, going back to her room and maybe getting some more sleep. She felt a little drowsy, and she didn't feel ready or safe to go alone yet.

But that feeling still tugged at her. To go someplace. She tried to ignore it, yet when her eyes drifted to the staircase… she felt a compulsion. Shaking her head, Elzia tried to dissuade the thought. There was no reason to go down there and towards the exit of the ruins.

But yet… something nagged her. She wanted to go down there. And after a long internal debate, curiosity got the better of her and she followed that odd feeling. Going down the steps and reaching the long corridor below. All the while, she began to wonder where Toriel was. After a moment, she figured that the woman was possibly out. It wasn't uncommon for her to go to the flowerbed where humans tend to fall in the morning.

Though as she followed the hall, taking an end up ahead and headed for the door, Elzia began to think about turning around. Maybe this wasn't a good idea. But again she felt compelled. But why? It made no sense. She had no reason to go this way.

While she thought, Elzia didn't completely register she was still walking. Going to the door, opening it, walking further down and then reaching the end. When her hand drifted up, touching the door, Elzia blinked. She pushed and walked out- and nearly screamed in her head, what am I doing?!

When her foot crunched, Elzia looked down and felt shocked. There was snow, and while she walked forwards, hand letting go of the door to investigate, did the door shift and thud closed. Straightening up stiff as a board, Elzia turned and blinked. Then, she rushed to the door- and felt a little disturbed. There were no handles, there was no way to open the doors!

What did I just do? She asked herself, Elzia feeling a little panicked now. Then, inspiration hit her. She dug in her pocket, getting her phone out and sighing in relief. Though also half dread as she said, "how am I going to explain this to Toriel?"

And while anxious about calling the women about how she had done exactly the opposite of what she said she would do? Well, Elzia hit speed dial and held the phone up to herself. Hearing it ring… and ring… and ring…

Then heard… panting? Elzia made a face. Then, she heard it. Barking. Quite a bit of barking. Elzia had to move the phone away, and became even more confused…. Before she heard it. Distant shouting. "Stop, please! Come back here with me Cellphone!"

Standing still, and blinking, Elzia wasn't sure how to take this. Wait, since when are there dogs down here? That was a thought that made the human scrunch her face up at the… were there any dogs down here? She didn't recall any. But yet…

She was still confused. No, she was very confused.

Rather abruptly, the phone hung up, presumably from the dog somehow pressing the wrong button. But Elzia was still unsure how to process what she had heard. So Eliza just…. Stood there. Both trying to understand what happened, and also figure out how to get out of this mess she got herself into.

…

It's pretty cold out… in here? Thought out Elzia, rubbing her arms a little and glad she had a sweater-hoody. Going as far to pull the hood up over her head. Though as she waited, Elzia figured to call again. Surly Toriel had found the phone by now, right?

One speed dial later, and she waited… the phone rang… and rang…. And rang… but no answer. Elzia tried again, but once more, no answer was given. Sighing, Elzia hung up and realized that the dog must have carried the phone off someplace the women couldn't reach. Which was… just rotten luck.

Elzia considered just staying in place. Maybe hope that Toriel would come and find her phone, maybe open the door? But all the same she felt… unsure. Sighing, Elzia also felt a tug in herself again. But this time, she planned to stay rooted in place. There was no way she was going to do anything more stupid than what she just did.

*SNAP!*

With a small yelp, Elzia glanced about the area she was in and really looked it over. Besides the snow, there were also a lot of bushes. And trees. And it was a little dark. Slowly, Elzia gulped and reached her hands to grip the straps of her bag, feeling a little nervous.

She thought she heard something to her right, and when she looked? Elzia almost swore she saw something. On an instant, images of that 'friendly' flower surfaced to her mind, and the dawning realization that she was trapped behind a one-way door and no access to safety? It made her finicky. She half hopped in place, looking from door to the slightly clear snowy path before her and then to the forest… before moving. Staying in one place didn't seem that safe all of a sudden, and she moved to maybe find cover.

As she walked, Elzia kept looking about the forest, hoping to find someplace to maybe hide more effectively. Maybe hold out until Toriel could get her phone again. Though as she wandered forwards, jumping over a large branch as she did, Elzia tried to rationalize that maybe nobody was there. She was completely alone and she was just-

*CRUNCH!*

Elzia spun around, feeling even more anxious now as the echoing of snapping wood traveled about the dark forest. The branch she had just gone over now broken in a few pieces. Gulping, she glanced about a bit more creeped out. She slowly walked backwards, looking about as she did. Even half skipping on her feet to try and quickly make her way forwards. Turning to look behind her, to glance about.

A shadow seemed to pass a couple of trees, making Elzia rush a bit more quickly, eyes trying to track where the shadow was last. Then, she heard a crunching of snow, and spun to look the other way. A figure darting between trees. Breathing picking up, Elzia spun around and began to nearly run ahead. She spotted an odd bridge, with large wooden posts ahead. And while she neared, she heard it.

Heavy, slow, crunching steps. She froze up a little, and then bolted, rushing on forwards. Something was stalking her, and she didn't want to find out what! She didn't care what it was, she was alone out here without Toriel and-

Abruptly, she hit something, and something hit her. She gave a small scream and the one she ran into gave a 'oof!', both landing in the snow. Elzia rushed herself up, hands slightly tingling from the cold now under her hands. While before her a very… tall skellington startup, red mittened hand making its way to his head as he spoke, "oh my, that was rough." and opened his eye sockets to her.

Elzia immediately felt a little scared at the fact there was an unknown monster before her. And yet, he only grinned and said, "oh, hello there! I'm sorry, I didn't see you!" And got up. His tall lanky form seeming to tower over her as he brushed off his odd chest armor and reached a hand down. "Allow me to help you up, dear friend!"

Blinking, Elzia spoke wearily, "um… thanks…" Nervously taking the hand and feeling surprise at his strength to haul her to her feet. Rebalancing herself a little after having nearly gone weightless.

"No thanks required!" He spoke in a near boastful tone, letting go of her hand and placing his own to his chest. The other planted on his hip as he spoke in a proud manner, red scarf nearly fluttering in non-existent wind, "for I, the Great, Papyrus! Am obligated to help and serve those before me." Going on to tell her, "as I am a Royal Guard in training! Neh Heh Heh!"

His overall demeanor was… a little too much to take. Elzia made a face of slight disbelief, not sure how to take his… actions. "That's… nice?" She eventually said, not sure what else to say. After a moment, Elzia stuttered out, "w-well, Pap-Papyrus. I'm… Elzia." Not sure if it was the right thing to do to tell him her name- but… there was no reason to be rude, even if she was freaking out a little on the inside.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Elzia!" Enthusiastically spoke the tall skellington. "Now, while I would most certainly love to talk, I have important matters to attend to!" Poising near heroically. Before he grumbled, "once I find my lazybones of a brother!"

Blinking, Elzia asked, "your… brother?"

"Why of course!" Spoke Papyrus, "you see, we're supposed to be out here on the watch for Humans!" making the girl go stock still. Even as the skeleton spoke on in thought, "though that will have to wait until I find my brother." Going on to tell her, "but I know that today is the day! I can tell, a Human will appear, I just know it!"

"You.. you don't say?" asked Elzia, trying her best not to sound nervous. "Why are you looking for a human?"

Seeming happy to tell her, Papyrus spoke, "why to capture them of course!" He told her with pride. But soon said in thought, "but, like I said, I need to find my lazy brother first. His puzzles need calibrating and he's been slacking off on the job on keeping them in shape!"

Brightening back up, Papyrus said while suddenly patting her head, making the girl pull her hood a bit more down. "Anyways, it was nice meeting you, Elzia." And soon plated two fist on his hips, "now then. SANS! Where are you, brother?" and jogged off to where she was last.

Slowly, Elzia began to walk forwards, body half trembling at the fact she had just ran into a guard in training, who wanted to capture her. More than likely, for her Soul. It terrified her and Elzia wondered how someone so… nice and cheerful could go about catching a human for their soul!?

Unless that was just how guards were off duty. Elzia was at least glad he didn't realize she was a human. And the girl decided there and then to keep her hood up. There was no way she wanted to chance a monster noticing what she was. Though as she walked, Elzia tried to calm her nerves. Digging for her phone once again, she hit the speed dial once more…

And got no answer. She really hoped Toriel didn't panic with her being gone. What was she thinking?

Moving along, Elzia tried to ponder her new situation and figure it out. At this point, she was just letting her feet carry her along, not really thinking of where to go. Though, in admittance? She did feel bad for just… leaving like she did. Not that she completely understood why she did, but she did. Slowly, she stopped and took her phone out once more, calling Toriel and, unsurprisingly, got no response.

Making a face, Elzia stared at the phone and wondered why voice-mail wasn't a thing on it. She hadn't been able to even get a voice machine response. Unless Toriel really didn't know anyone else with a phone? Then why have a phone at all if she has no one to call? Was the internal question before the human waved it off.

It didn't matter right now. And while she took a moment to walk a little further, casting her gaze about? Did she pause at the… cardboard looking stand. Curiously, Elzia walked up and stopped before the fort. Looking at the sign, her face twisted up further. Apparently, it was Papyrur's 'post'. And looking at it, she wondered how that could be. It didn't look that… official.

While Elzia tried to ponder this, and thought about maybe heading back, she heard voices. Turning, Elzia saw that tall skellington again, his red boots carrying him along in an almost jounty march, his arms animatedly swinging about. While beside him and having an ever present grin much like Papyrus, was a much shorter skellington. Having a blue hooded coat, some white shirt and casual black shorts… and socks that rested comfortably in a pair of pink slippers.

Elzia had to blink to make sure she was seeing it right. There was a skellington, wearing slippers… in the snow. She tried to shake this off, but instead thought about hiding. Maybe moving away to not be seen?

"Ah, Elzia!" Only for Papyrus to call out in enthuseasum, "it is I, the Great Papyrus!" Rushing up to say, "I see you have seen my magnificent work?" Preening proudly by his little station.

Blinking a little, Elzia gave it a look and soon told Papyrus, "it's… something alright." Not having the heart to bluntly point out it was just cardboard set up into a semi-house like structure.

"Thank you." He spoke with no small measure of pride. Seeming to say a tad louder, "at least some people know when effort is placed into something!" And gave what seemed to be a glare towards who Elzia could assume was his brother.

The mentioned skellington in blue only smiled and said, "oh come on Pap's, I put tons of effort into things." And winked, "a skele-ton."

"Sans!" Nearly shouted Papyrus.

Grin growing a bit more, Sans said, "come'on, I know I tickles a funny-bone there."

While it was overtly strange to watch, Elzia gave a very low, if not unsure laugh. Still a little on edge and nervous of the two. The short guy went on, "you're grinning, I can see it." Seeming teasing.

"Gah!" Papyrus shouted, "I am and I hate it!" Then tried to clear his voice and turned to Elzia, both hands placed together. "Elzia. It has come to my attention that you are new here." Making the girl once more unsure of what was going on. "And my Brother had mentioned that maybe, as a future royal guard in training, that I should be the one to escort you back to town and not left to wander aimlessly."

Blinking, Elzia was a little… surprised. Even as she said, "oh, well… that's… awful nice of you." And gave a glance to ask, "and this is your brother?" Mind wondering if she should find some excuse to slip away.

Seeming to cast a more easygoing grin her way, Sans spoke, "Yup. Ice to meet you. I'm Sans, Sans the skellington." The white dot's for eyes seem to glance over her. "You're not from around here, huh?" Going on, "I can tell. Those kinda look more like the clothes you'd wear in Waterfall."

With the best laugh she could pull up that didn't sound too nervous, Elzia asked, "you, uh, noticed, huh?" Trying to pretend she knew where that was. "Yeah, I'm just… a little lost, honestly."

"Say no more!" Papyrus spoke, "allow us to show you back to Snowdin!" Going on to tell, even half assuring her to move with, "that way, you won't get lost! And I would have done a great service to my cause to be a Royal Guard!" Then added with a lot less recognition, "oh, and Sans can also help too."

"Sure thing." Sans agreed, falling in step. "Besides, I could take a break."

"You haven't even worked a single minute!" Papyrus accused him.

"I still walked all the way to my station." Sans shrugged, and seemed to somehow wiggle the top of his eye sockets like eyebrows. "It was time-consuming."

With a disgusted sound, Papyrus said, "that was even worse!" And soon told with his arms crossed, "why am I letting you come along again?"

"Because he's your brother and you love him very much?" Elzia piped in without much thought, causing both brother's to go quiet. Right before Sans began to chuckle.

Hand out of pocket, Sans began to soon laugh and say, "wow, that was a good one kid!" Chuckling even more while Papyrus looked irritated. Once Sans calmed down, he grinned, "I like her, Papyrus." And went on to tell, "come on, no reason to chill around."

"Ugh, very well." Spoke Papyrus. "But only because it might be chilly for Elzia." Giving a look to her.

In admittance, Elzia said, "it is a bit cold out here." And fixed her bag on her shoulders before moving with the three. Looking between them while asking, "so… is Sans a royal guard too?"

"Me?" Sans asked, "naw, I'm a sentry. I just keep an eye socket out for things. Like humans." Again, making Elzia a little nervous.

Upturning his nose, Papyrus said, "he might try, but don't be fooled. My lazy brother can never keep his eyes open. He tends to sleep on the job!" And pointed to Sans saying, "Neh-heh!"

With a glance, Sans seemed to grin a bit more. And Papyrus's triumphant grin slipped away. Sans soon going, "what can I say, I can dream, can't I?" Going on to tell Elzia, "why, I'm so good at my job that I can do it with my eyes closed." Winking at her, "which ain't that hard to do. The work is so laidback, it's restful."

"OH MY GOD SANS!" Papyrus shouted with his hand on his head, a slight bark of surprise being heard as a dog at his own official looking watch post got up and gave a confused look at the passing group. Though relaxed seeming to recognize at least Papyrus. "Will your puns ever end?!"

With a mirthful twinkle in his eyes, Sans said, "what can I say? I didn't want to take the challenge laying down."

Elzia couldn't help herself. She giggled at that one. The two were… a little goofy together like this. Sure she still felt unsure of the two, but at least they were fun to be around. And they didn't seem to know she was human so… maybe she was safe? At least for now she was possibly safe.

Any thoughts of safety left her as she felt her foot slip. Arms flailing, Elzia gave a yelp of surprise- and felt something stop her from falling face first into a large patch of ice. Heaved back to her feet and on the snow, Papyrus spoke, "careful, you could hurt yourself." Then grinned, "but, as you can tell, you have nothing to worry about as long as I guard over you."

Clearing her throat, Elzia said, "thanks… Papyrus." Feeling her cheeks flush a bit at such a clumsy action. She should have really been paying more attention.

"Think nothing of it!" Papyrus assured, "now come along, and watch your step!" Marching on along over the ice, though carefully.

Elzia let out a breath, and felt Sans lightly elbow her and said, "try and not give my bro the slip if you can help it, alright?"

Chuckling lightly, Elzia assured, "don't worry, I don't really plan to." Then as they walked, she thought it over and asked, "hope you can let that one slide?"

Papyrus froze and looked back in some horror, while Sans gave a snicker. After a moment, Papyrus lamented, "Sans, no! You've corrupted her!" Making Elzia laugh in turn.

More and more of Elzia began to wonder if following the two brother's was a good idea or not. For certain, they were very friendly. Papyrus being a near lovable goof that seemed to just be in high spirits, while his brother was more of some comedian that was pretty laid back. Papyrus was, admittedly, sweet too. As soon as Sans noticed her shiver, the taller of the two went and gave her his scarf.

During the trip itself though, more than once they would pass by some monsters. Some of which waving at the two. And in the case of the dog-shaped ones that often had weapons and armor that had to be soldiers or guards? Well, again Elzia had the two to thank for helping get past. She had a good feeling that Sans knew them well, and Papyrus happened to know them just as much from how much he wanted to be a Royal Guard.

Sans went as far to introduce her to one of those Guards- Lesser dog he said they were called. And after some coaxing on Sans part? Give him a good few pats. Which resulted in the weirdest sight of the dog's neck getting longer and longer- before going back to normal once she was done petting.

Elzia had to conclude that Monsters were just outright weird. If it wasn't the strange Vegetoid that made edible magic food, or the spiders that made spider-food edible for all, even the one Misgosp that is either overly rude in a crowd, or completely easy-going when no ones around. And now she had to add the two goofy (but nice) skellingtons and the dog that could extend his neck length with the power of pats!

In any case? Elzia felt her life had taken a very strange turn. More so than when she fell down here in the first place. But thankfully, after they reached and crossed a bridge? They finally reached the town known as Snowdin. And it was a rather nice looking place. It was colorful, monsters seemed to smile all over and it had an almost… cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

After a look around, Elzia gave a glance to the two skellington brothers and said, "thanks for getting me here."

"No problem." Waved off Sans.

"Not in the least!" Agreed Papyrus. "Now!" His enthusiasm dampened some, "well, we do have to keep up our patrol for humans." Then set his face into determination. "Come on Sans, we have a human to look out for!"

Though as he was going to turn, Elzia spoke up, "wait!" making him pause and look back. While she herself asked, "is there, um… anyplace I can stay?" Going on, "like I said, I got myself a little lost and I… don't really have that much on me." Only now realizing that in truth? She hardly carried any money on her. Sure Toriel gave her some 'G' to use now and then. But nothing to survive on! The realization was starting to put her into a small internal panic.

Seeming to blink, Papyrus spoke, "oh, well. I suppose I could lead you to our domicile until you can find your way back."

A little taken aback, Elzia asked, "you… wouldn't mind if I stayed at your place?" Once more wondering if that was a good idea.

While Sans looked between both her and his brother, Papyrus nodded, "not at all." Perking up, "it would be like having a sleepover!" This time, catching Elzia flatfootted mentally at how he placed it. "Actually, it would be great to have someone spend the night!" And turned to say, "what do you think Sans? I could make us a special dish of pasta. Maybe we could stay up an extra hour for once and watch a movie!" Proceeding on, "and in the morning? Some pancakes you enjoy getting!"

Chuckling, Sans told, "huh, that's not a half bad plan, Pap's. Sounds perfect, really."

"Of course it's perfect Sans!" Triumphantly told Papyrus, "you can expect nothing less than the best from the Great Papyrus!" And marched ahead excitedly, "come along! The sooner we show Elzia the way, the sooner we may finish our patrol!"

While the tall Skellington marched on quickly, Elzia shook her head and looked to Sans, saying, "your brother is something else. I don't know what else to say."

Grinning a bit more, Sans told, "yeah, Papyrus tends to make people speechless." both soon moving to keep up. "Actually I don't mind if you spend the night either. You seem nice, and you've kinda help brighten his day a little."

"He's been down?" Asked Elzia in some confusion.

"Well, yeah." Admitted Sans after a bit. "He's been holding out on finding a human, you know? And it's wearing on him." Then gave her a look, adding. "Mind helping me out a little? Think of it as a favor for letting you spend the night." Going on to persuade, "maybe try and cheer him up some?"

Thinking on it, Elzia asked, "well… what does he like?" Definitely not wanting to out herself as a human. There was no way she would expose herself, even if it would help make the goofy skellington happy.

"Puzzles for one." Sans mentioned.

While the Puzzles she had seen so far in the underground were a little… dangerous, at least in the ruins? The few seen around the forest were nowhere near as bad. And thinking on it? As long as they weren't' like those puzzles? Elzia didn't mind them. A good puzzle did sound nice, now that she thought about it.

Smiling, Elzia said, "well, I like puzzle games too. Maybe we can do one tonight." Going on, "I mean, if there's any to do. I could try… making one up?"

Chuckling, Sans told, "don't worry about it. I think I know one you two can try out." Going on, "or, you could join us on Patrol." Getting a look from her. "Our Puzzles need calibrating. Maybe you could help test a couple out, eh? Always good to get an outside opinion."

Thinking it over a little, Elzia asked, "they're not dangerous, are they?"

Shaking his head, Sans told, "nope. Completely safe. Made to catch, not hurt." Somewhat assuring her. And if they thought she was a monster like them? Then as guards, they wouldn't want to accidentally hurt someone. Also, Sans seemed at least observant and aware. So… maybe it was safe.

Nodding, Elzia said, "okay, sure." Then told while holding up the red scarf around her neck. "But first, do you guys have any spare coats or… something warm that I can borrow? So I can give this back to Papyrus."

"Sure." Sans nodded. "I got a few spare coats layin' around."

When Sans mentioned a coat laying around, she didn't think he actually meant it was laying on the ground. He assured her it was clean- and the only spare he had at the moment. But even then, she couldn't help but give the blue coat a look over. She was sure it smelled of something, but for all she knew? That was just the detergent. Part of her wanted to disagree on having it- but it was leagues more warmer than her hooded sweatshirt or the borrowed scarf.

A scarf that, admittedly, she still had around her neck. She would have given it back, but Papyrus insisted she'd keep it on, even going as far to fix it up a little. Something she tried not to fidget over. But after that and telling the tall brother of doing some Puzzle Calibrations with her tagging along?

Well, Papyrus seemed to have lost focus on getting the house nice and tidy before dragging them both back out into the cold and going for the puzzles. Something he seemed somewhat excited for. Elzia wouldn't say she was the same, but followed along in any case. She did agree to Sans she'd try and brighten Papyrus's day.

From there it was a near marathon of odd puzzles all over the forest- even off path ones she didn't know about. To say Papyrus liked puzzles was an understatement. The creative thought he put into them was rather… well, amazing in hindsight. How he pulled half of them off was beyond her. One example being the 'maze' you had to navigate, while holding a crystal gem, and figure out the path, else you got shocked by the small rock.

A detail Papyrus forgot when asking her to give it a try, as he was holding said rock when she began the test-run. But seeing as he was alright afterwards, at least assured her the shocks were not painful. And one test with said rock in hand, showed that it was more like some static shock. So, that was something in itself.

There was another puzzle involving some switch system that, at first she didn't understand. But after a bit of explaining? Elia got a grasp and after some 'calibrating' by the three of them? Gave a test on. Sans going first. Though all he did was stand at the entrance and give up five seconds later.

Elzia took it a bit more seriously and went about figuring it out. Taking a bit long to figure it out, but wanting to get it right on the first go. But after ten minutes, she figured it out. Something that had Papyrus ecstatic. And over all, as they did each puzzle one-by-one? Elzia could say that it was actually kind of fun. Sure, sign her up for normal puzzle games inside a warm house any day, but this little experience wasn't that bad. She was willing to do it again.

But after she got some more appropriate clothes and not borrow Sans's oddly smelling coat.

Hands rubbing, Elzia gratefully took the warm mug from Sans's hands and spoke, "thanks." Taking a sip of the hot coco inside, while also gripping the cup for warmth.

Taking a seat at the table that had to be set up with some chairs, Sans said, "welcome." And while he watched her take easy sips of the hot drink, he said, "so, Papyrus seemed to have enjoyed the day. And looked like you had a bit of fun too."

Smiling, Elzia said, "well, your brother's a nice guy." Going on, "a little goofy, but he's cool."

"He sure is." Chuckled Sans, relaxing in his chair. He and the girl both cast a glance to the kitchen, hearing the enthusiastic skellington work on dinner. Sans was the first to ask, "so… where do you live?" Making Elzia go still. "Never mentioned where you're from."

Thinking on it, Elzia considered lying… but then again, the idea made her feel a little uncertain. And after some logic, reasoned that really? Maybe trying to lie would result in some bad repercussions. Toriel did have a phone, so it wasn't a stretch Sans and Papyrus had one and called up their guard buddies to figure out where she was from.

"I'm from the Ruins." Elzia soon told. "The door leading to them is kinda close to where I ran into Papyrus this morning." And went on with some embarrassment, "I… got locked out by accident. And I can't get back in."

Lifting a brow, Sans asked, "did ya try calling for help?"

"I only have one person's number on my phone." Elzia admitted, "and… they lost it recently. I haven't been able to reach them. I've been trying, but nothing."

Sans seemed to stare at her for a long while, and eventually said, "huh… well, those door haven't opened for anyone for a long time. Old magic keeps them shut." Then said, "how's this? I'll see what I can do. I happen to know someone that lives in the ruins." Getting her to perk up. "But… mind tellin' me why you left?"

To that, Elzia gramanced and said, "I… don't really know." And let out a deep sigh. "I've been asking myself the same question all day. And honestly? I don't know why. I just… did…" seeming regretful. It still bugged her that she even left at all, something about how she just… wandered out bothered her. Made her even a little uneasy too.

The two sat in silence for a while, only the clanking of Papyrus's work reaching their ears.

After a little waiting, and not really having any idea what to say, the two kept to their own silence. Sans relaxing back and seeming to doze off, while Elzia took sips of her coco in thought. Then, they heard the clattering of plates. Papyrus telling, "Dinner is done!" And soon placed plates of pasta down, before he himself sat down, his own plate of pasta before him. "And might I add, that this is my best dish yet!"

Elzia looked down to the cooked pasta and smiled a bit, saying, "Thanks for dinner, Papyrus." Placing the coco down and taking a fork to spin and catch the noodles and take a bite- before feeling herself freeze. While she tried to…. Processing what she was tasting, Papyrus seemed to grin happily.

"For a guest? It is a pleasure, Elzia!" And soon asked with a near shine in his eyes. "So, how is it?" Sans, only minorly spinning the noodles at the end of his fork, also casting a curious gaze.

The human herself slowly pulled her fork out, chewing just as slowly and tried to give a smile. She just as slowly gulped it down, and soon said, "it's…" trying to find the words of the… stuff she just ate. All the while she could see his expectant and hopeful gaze, and felt an odd tingle in her spine. "It's…. urm... Unlike anything I had before." Giving the best smile she could.

However, Papyrus instead nearly clapped his hands, face beaming brightly. "You hear that Sans, they love it!" Though Elzia made a slightly worried face. She was trying to be polite and not outright say it was horrible- but how did he come to that conclusion. She hoped it wasn't poisoned. "My cooking lessons are showing through!"

"I can tell." Sans smiled, still spinning and not having taken a bite of his meal. "She didn't fall over like the last guy." Making Elzia a little concerned now while looking at her plate with some paranoia that it was indeed, poisoned.

"Sans, that was a simple mistake!" Papyrus defended while taking a nice helping of his own noodles. "Besides, I have clearly improved." And took a nice big helping, slurping it down- before stopping. Elzia half watched with wide eyes at his reaction, clearly seeing his shock at the taste of his own food. Sans himself, watched passively in amusement. And Papyrus kept stock still… before somehow gulping it down.

After a long moment of silence, Papyrus admitted slowly, "ah, she's right. It is… unlike anything I've had before." Looking down at his plate and soon to Sans's own, still having not touched it. After a while, Papyrus asked, "how about I go make us something a bit more… palatable. Like sandwiches."

Elzia let out an internal breath. Maybe the food wasn't poisoned and Papyrus was just a sub-par cook. But any further thoughts were placed on hold when chuckling was heard. Sans soon stood up and said, "I got it." And walked to the kitchen. While Papyrus and Elzia traded looks.

Papyrus was the first to say, "you know you could have told me it was terrible." Seeming half puzzled at her reluctance to tell him.

With an embarrassed glance away, Elzia said, "I… didn't want to be rude." And poked at her food, "I mean, it's not horrible, horrible. Just… well, maybe better. I can… maybe force it down?" Though she debated on if that was a good idea. She half winced at not thinking her words through while trying to be polite.

"Now why would you go and do that?" Asked Papyrus in confusion. Even crossing his arms to tell, "if you don't like it, you clearly don't have to eat it." Adding on, "it's all part of practice. One day, it'll be the best thing you'll ever have!"

Giving a low laugh, Elzia asked, "so… you're not mad?" going on to admit, "I honestly wasn't sure what to tell you."

"Mad? Why would I be?" He asked before looking to his dish to admit, "I'm not sure if I would say about this latest creation I made, either." Papyrus admitted in thought. "I'm not too sure what I did wrong though… Clearly I added a little too much of something." Pondering the issue. Then he said, "it must of been the pile of salt!" Getting Elzia a little confused. Was salt used in pasta? And did he say 'pile' of salt?

She didn't get to think too long as Sans came back, sliding new plates to each of them with sandwiches on them. Though when she looked down at them? Elzia wanted to make a face at their odd shapes. Her's was in a almost sword like shape, and Sans had… what looked to be a sparkling burger? She even looked to Papyrur's own sandwich, which looked more like her own.

Papyrus himself gave a suspicious look to the food, then to Sans's own, and after eyeing him for a long pause, Papyrus said, "Sans…. These don't look like they were made by you."

Shrugging and taking a bite of his meal, Sans said, "don't be like that bro." that mirthful glimmer once more in his white dotted eyes, "Let-tuce all just enjoy the meal." Causing Papyrus's eye to twitch. "Go on, it's even deli-lcious."

"Sans…" warned Papyrus.

Elzia rolled her eyes and tried to not laugh, and instead took a bite of her offered meal. And while she munched away, she said, "you enjoy teasing your brother way too much." Figuring to be more straight with him since, in all honesty? Sans just gave her the impression of someone that could take a bit more criticism.

"I gotta practice my jokes with someone." Sans declared whie again, taking a bite out of the overly glamerized burger. "Besides I can't muster the will not to tell a joke or two."

Bringing a hand to massage his temples, Papyrus spoke, "these puns, they never end with you, do they?"

"I'm your Brother." Sans waved off, "and you find them funny."

"If only I didn't." Grumbled Papyrus, causing the girl to shake her head in amusement at the two once again, withholding a giggle.

Snow crunching underfoot, Sans reached and settled himself by the door in the forest. Leaning back and letting out a peaceful breath. Seeing the human in person… was pretty revealing. They were cautious, and pretty scared. But they seemed calm now. Even relaxed. Letting her think that he had no idea what a human was… it was a bit funny to think about.

But Sans felt that he should still keep a close eye on Elzia. She seemed pretty well meaning, but one couldn't be too careful. Human nature was a fickle thing, and it did good to watch for anything odd. But he doubts it would be an issue. Even more so as he lifted a hand and rapped his bonny knuckles on the door. "Hey… ya there?"

After a bout of silence, he heard, "yes… I'm here." Silence once more resuming before the voice spoke. "I'm sorry if I'm not talkative today. I… had a rather hard day, today."

"Heh… was pretty eventful for me." Sans responded, the two once more lapsing into silence. "Ya know… funny thing happened today." Going on to say, "I saw that human you talked about. Wandering around completely lost and confused." He glanced to the door, going on. "She's been tryin' to reach ya by phone. Said you lost it."

He barely heard the heavy sigh from the other side. But the voice told, "yes. I remember getting a call from her early in the morning. But a small white dog came and snached it out of my hands as soon as I picked up. I haven't been able to find it yet." And once more went quiet. "Are they well? Have they been good?"

"Actually? They've been great." Sans said while relaxing back. "They met my bro, and I'd say they hit it off. Still doesn't know she's human but… well, I didn't want to ruin it for her. She seems pretty skittish around new people." And continued to relax there before saying, "you know… she told me something odd."

Confused, the voice asked, "something odd?"

"Yeah." Confirmed the comedian. "I asked why she was out here lost. Said that she didn't know and been asking herself the same question herself." And while they let that settle, Sans went on. "She's been wantin' to come back. But can't open the door. Not that I blame her. The doors got some pretty strong magic locks in place."

After a moment, the voice said, "I should go to them." Proceeding to ask, "do you mind bringing them back here in the morning?"

"Sure thing." Nodded Sans. "They're at my place now. Pretty sure that they're going over that book of hers. My Bro is kinda impressed at her work." going on, "me? I find it all a bit sketchy." And was soon rewarded by a laugh.

But eventually, her laughter died down and the voice spoke, "thank you. For keeping them safe." And soon said, "I'll be here in the morning to let her through."

Curious, Sans asked, "think she'll want out again?"

They were silent, but eventually the voice said, "well… I am unsure. She seemed fine here before. But if she's made friends…"

"I know my brother would love to see her again." Spoke Sans honestly. "And she seems to like him too. And really? I wouldn't mind if she came to visit now and then." Going on to say, "and hey, maybe you could visit too."

Again, the voice was silent for a bit. But after a while, they said, "I will think about it."

Getting up was a bit of a choir. The couch was alright, but Elzia would have taken the Bed Torial had granted to her in the guest room over it. Still, she took some comfort that she had a nice good night of sleep. Granted when she got her mind fully booted up, she felt a little nervous. Mostly because Elzia was, once more, in a strange house… with even stranger hosts.

One such host was already up, and had what smelled like pancakes down. Though they didn't look to be cooked from here. If anything, Papyrus had gotten them from someplace. Given the few bag-like shapes off to the side that she spotted. As Eelzia got up and wandered over at the more noticeable smell, Papyrus spoke, "ah, Elzia, you're awake!" And went on, "you have quite the bedhead too."

Tired eyes snapped open wide, the girl lifting a hand to feel her hood was off. She half panicked, realizing that it had slipped off. Possibly in her sleep. Though in that moment, Papyrus said in thought, "hmm… I should ask Sans if you could borrow that comb of his." Causing her mental facilities to screech to a halt to that. "Stay right there, Elzia, I need to go wake my brother anyways. Breakfast is getting cold!" And marched his way up the stairs.

While Elzia herself tried to organize her thoughts. Once she calmed down, she went down the list. First off, Papyrus did not at all recognize her as human. Meaning that he was safe to be around without a hood. Second off, Sans had a comb.

Why did a skeleton without any hair have a comb? Granted as she scrunched her face to that question, Elzia realized there were a number of things that didn't make sense with Sans. Like his choice of footwear. Who wore pink slippers out in the snow?

She was brought out from her thoughts when there was a long yawn, Sans walking down and waving, "heya kid." And seemed to search his pocket before holding up the mentioned Comb. "here, Pap's said you needed it for a hairy situation."

"SANS, IT'S TOO EARLY FOR PUNS!" Papyrus was heard shouting from someplace on the second floor.

Regardless of this, Elzia took the comb, saying, "thanks." And soon eyed it, squinting her eyes a little. Wondering where it was from… then reminded herself to find her glasses.

While she turned around, Elzia made out the fuzzy shapes of the couch and small table next to it. She clearly saw her bag near said table and knew where to look. Marching up and finding her glasses folded neatly on a physics book. A book the human once more reminded herself to look at.

Though such plans were placed on the back of her mind when Sans spoke, "so, ready to get home after breakfast?" Getting her to turn around to see that he had plates, forks and condiments out. "Got to talk to my pal, said they'll see you at the door this morning."

"Really?" Elzia perked up hopefully while unfolding and placing the glasses on her face. "I… thank you. This means a lot." The idea of getting back to the safety of the Ruins really placed her at ease. And soon enough, she was walking back to the table, though was a little hesitant to use the come at first before going with it. Her hair was a mess from what she felt.

"No trouble kid." Sans waved off while getting himself a few pancakes and smothering them in syrup. "You were a big help yesterday and helped Pap's out a lot. Means a lot to me too."

Half marching down the stairs, Papyrus said, "that it did. Your love for puzzles and eye for detail are something to be proud of!" And soon took his own seat. "Though… I am disappointed that we didn't see nor catch any humans."

Wanting to move on, Elzia said, "well… there's always next time, right?" Giving the best smile she could. But just as quickly place the comb down and quickly take a few pancakes with a plate and fork. Getting a bit of syrup and soon trying her first bite. She half hummed at the taste, and soon said, "wow, these are pretty tasty."

"Yeah, Grill' knows how to make a good pancake." Sans seemed to agree. Adding on, "thanks for the treat, Bro."

Nose up, Papyrus said, "while I would rather not have any greasy foods in this house, I have to admit, Grillby's breakfast assortment is rather nice." And took a few of the pancakes to his own plate. "And I did plan for it, so think nothing of it, brother!" then jousted a fork Sans way, "just no more puns during breakfast!"

Snickering, Sans winked, "no puns for breakfast."

Papyrus gave a final nod, as if that ended that issue. But turned his focus to Elzia and asked, "though I must ask Elzia, do you intend to come visit after this?" Going on, "I rarely get to do puzzle work with anyone else. Besides Sans if he were to bother half the time." Casting a leer to said skellington. Who was in the process of lifting a syrupy-waterlogged pancake to eat.

"Well…" started Elzia, thinking on it, "I'll… have to ask my, uh…" Mind trying to define what Toriel was. "Guardian." Getting a look from both skellingtons. While it wasn't fully accurate, it was the closest thing she could grasp. "I've been living with Miss Toriel for a while and she's taking care of me, so… I guess that… sort of makes her my guardian?" Going on, "but I don't think anytime soon."

While Papyrus deflated to this news, he seemed to perk back up. "Then a rain check then!" Going on to tell, "we will finish our breakfast. And then we will make our ways to your home- Sans may take you the rest of the ways though. I do have patrol." saying this in some afterthought.

"Relax Papyrus." Chuckled Sans, "I can take her back. You focus on patrolling, gotta show'em guards you're diligent, right?"

"That you are, Sans!" Papyrus spoke with more vigor, standing up quickly from his seat. "I have a long day ahead of me, but with the puzzles set and with you handling Elzia? Today will be an easy run! I can focus on my search for Humans, not having Puzzle calibrations to fully worry about!" Then planted his hands on his hips, laughing out, "NEH, HEH, HEH, HEH!"

Elzia could not help but marvel at Papyrus's near constant, exuberant, upbeat self. Where did he get that optimism from?

Snow crunched underfoot as Elzia half hugged the blue coat she was again, given to use during their little trip back to the Ruins. Sparing a glance from behind her hood, Elzia regarded Sans as he seemed to half walk with his eyes closed, as if he was sleepwalking. Looking forwards again, Elzia said, "thanks for walking me back, Sans." Though she wasn't sure how safe she truly was if a monster did recognize what she was.

"Not a problem, Kid." Sans seemed to wave off, their feet clicking away at the wooden bridge that would near the ruins, before the snow once more crunched. "I did tell Pap's I'd get you there safe, didn't I?"

"Yeah, I guess." Elzia admitted with a small nod.

As they walked on in silence, Sans peaked an eye open, the small light in his eye socket searching the girl next to him. "So.. still got no clue why you're out here in the first place?"

Letting out a breath of air, and watching the puff of breath drift away, did Elzia shake her head. "No." And raised a hand from the strap of her bag, rubbing a bit of her face. "How am I going to tell Toriel? She must be worried sick…" then muttered, "wonder if she's going to kill me for this…"

"I think she'll be happy to know you're fine." Sans shrugged off. "I mean, she's your guardian, right?"

"Well, sort of, yeah." Admitted Elzia. "That's the closest thing she is to me right now, I guess…" Knowing in reality, that what the woman was. Her caretaker while she was trapped down here. Because clearly, she wasn't ready. As much as it hurted what little pride she had in her own independence. But the fact was, she was out of her element entirely.

Sans gave her a look and said, "then I think it's safe to say, she'll be glad you're safe. And that's what matters, right?"

"I guess you're right…" Elzia got out. "I just… I just wish I could say something. Know why I did what…"

Shrugging his shoulders, Sans said, "eh, don't think on it too hard kid. Way I see it, it sounds like something I'd do if I was half asleep." And winked on, "maybe you were sleepwalkin'."

"I'm not sure if that's better or worse." Elzia said, but let out a breath and said, "but… thanks anyways." And blinked when she noticed the large doors to the Ruins. She half gulped and looked to Sans before saying, "well.. Here we are." And looked to the doors again. She deeply hoped Toriel wasn't too mad at her.

"Yup." Sans supplied as they stood there. "You gonna knock?"

Gulping, Elzia said, "yeah… just… just getting ready."

"For what?" Asked Sans.

"My funeral." Elzia said while walking up to the door. She could hear Sans snickering behind her, though she was only half kidding. She was sure Toriel was going to be upset no matter what.

Hand up, Elzia took another breath and gave a good knock on the doors. She stepped back and waited, and thankfully for not long. The door on the right opened right up. And standing there, with concern on her features, was Toriel. She seemed to relax and the worry melted away. "Elzia, child, you had me worried." Door seems to stay open for reasons beyond Elzia's comprehension as it closed on her last time.

Regardless, Elzia walked up and held her head down, "I know, I… I'm sorry, I…" Though as soon as she was close, she felt the woman hug her. Part of her relived the monster woman wasn't scolding her, but another part still feeling guilty over what had happened.

"Shh, you do not have to say anything." Toriel seemed to sooth before relaxing her grip and looking up. Smiling, she spoke, "Hello there. Are you the voice I would hear past my door?" Making Elzia curious and looking between the two.

"Yup." Sans grinned. "Name's Sans. Sans the Skellington."

"Toriel." Politely told the woman. "Thank you, Sans, for bringing Elzia back to me safely."

Grinning, Sans told, "I kid you not, she was no trouble." Drawing a small giggle from Toriel. "But as much as I'd like to chat? I gotta get back to my post. Long day ahead." Then winked, "still up for Jokes this evening?"

Brightly smiling, Toriel nodded, "of course, Sans."

"Alright." Smiled the short skellington. "I'll talk to you later, Toriel." And looked to Elzia telling, "catch you later, kid. Maybe call ahead the next time you come wandering out, huh?"

With a nervous laugh, Elzia said, "I'll… think on it." And with Toriel, gave a slight wave as Sans departed. Though once he was gone, Elzia lost her smile and sagged in place. Even as Toriel guided her back into the Ruins, door thumping closed.

As the two walked, Elzia said, "Toriel, I'm sorry." Hands flexing as her mind once more raced over how this all started. "I don't know what I was thinking, literally. I just… I just had…" at this point, it felt like she was trying to make an excuse. But all the same it just… bugged her that she left, knowing full well how dangerous it was or the fact she didn't want to leave.

Toriel couldn't help but give a look to the human girl by her side. As much as she felt disappointed in Elzia? There was something about how the teenager held herself. She wasn't just guilty, she looked… troubled. It made Toriel wonder if something indeed happened to the girl. Was it an act of fear? Did she not feel safe here? Did she simply just get curious and wanted to take a peak?

Sighing out, Toriel could tell that whatever the reason? It was eating the girl from the inside. And in a way, Toriel couldn't think of a way to make her ire known. From the looks of it though? It didn't look like it was truly needed. "You do not have to say anything, Elzia." She assured me with a pat on the girl's shoulders. "I will not say that I am not displeased at what you did, but I know that children tend to… wander in most cases. The many I had under my care, often did it to be rebellious or to seek a way to the surface."

"But… unlike them, you do not strike me as one to rush ahead without thought." Spoke on the goat woman. "And you seem… honestly guilty that you left as you did." she felt a need to bite her lip, mostly because she wasn't sure what else to say. But Toriel did get out, "maybe the stress simply has gotten to you, child."

"I… maybe…" Elzia spoke up, not sure of that reasoning. It didn't make sense to her brain, but at this point? Not much did. The Underground was already weird. "I think… I think I just want to hide away in the guest room and… think."

It almost made Toreil shake her head in mirth. A child wanting to go to their room for doing something wrong? Turly, she has seen all forms of children now. "Alright, Elzia. But do not hesitate to talk to me if you need to. I will be in the house today." Getting a slow nod from the girl as they navigated the halls.

As they reached the stairs and began to climb them, Toriel said, "whatever the reason, Elzia? I am simply glad you returned to me alive." And gave a comforting single hug to the teen by her side.

"You and me both." Elzia said shyly, getting a small laugh from Toriel that had the girl smiling a bit.