I do not own Undertale

Breath in. Breath out.

It is just a flower. Reminded Elzia to herself. It is just a flower. Hand hovering out and over the small yellow petaled plant that was in a pot. Dug up from the bed of flowers that Toriel would visit on a daily basis. Though Elzia opted to stay at the house this time. To practice magic… and get over her new recent fear of flowers.

After a few failed attempts to get near the bed of flowers without nearly breaking down or losing strength in her limbs from all the trembling? Did the human decide to just go… smaller. And that smaller was getting one flower in a pot and trying to touch it. Simple.

Only, it wasn't. Every try resulted in her pulling her hand away as if it would burn her. Harm her. Do something malicious to her- even though it was just a flower. Elzia had no idea how many times she had told herself that, over and over. And yet it did not stop that agonizing fear from striking up her arm like lightning.

So there she sat, in a chair by the table and assessing the flower in it's pot. Her mind thinks up a number of strategies and tactical moves that she could use to maneuver her arm and later touch the thing with her hand. Yet each one failed because she would back off in fear. And it was frustrating- it was just a plant for crying out loud!

Maybe she underestimated just how terrified she was, if she was reflecting all her worries on such a harmless little thing. But in the End, the fact that a flower scared her? It bothered Elzia. Maybe in due fact she was scared of a harmless little thing.

Breathing in deeply, the teen once more tried to settle her nerves. Once more she reminded herself that it was just a small defenseless flower that could only sit around and soak up sunlight. It wasn't that demonic spawn of satan that tried killing her both in the Ruins and in her dreams. It was just a normal, everyday, little yellow flower.

Though when she opened her eyes, Elzia still felt aprehenthin in her chest. And while she held the stare down with the plant, she heaved a heavy sigh and thought to herself, this is ridiculous, and felt a little embarrassed. If her classmates saw her like this trying to overcome her fear over a simple flower… well, whatever little reputation she had would go plummeting into the ground. Probably go six feet under and then covered by a slab of stone to never be seen again.

No she wasn't popular, but that didn't mean something like this would egg them all on to tease her further. Elzia was at least glad that Toriel was supportive, and that both Sans and Papyrus seemed to understand. Well, Sans understood when he saw her trying to overcome her little fear that one random day. Papyrus was just puzzled and assured her that flowers were their friends.

Clearly he's never met a psychotic killer flower that tried tricking you into a false sense of security and mercilessly attacked you- but really? Elzia doubts Papyrus ever would. The guy was far too nice and innocent to ever see anything as evil. It didn't take more than a few more meetings to realize the guy was indeed, a lovable goof that only wanted to be friends with people. She wasn't sure how he could be a royal guardsmen later on with how nice he was!

Leaning on the table and relaxing her hard stare at the flower, Elzia couldn't help but think of Sans next. Fingers tapping away on the table, she reviewed how he acted and while he was indeed lazy and tended to make more jokes than he put effort on anything else? Elzia was sure there was something else there.

She could just… feel it. See it now and then too. The way he watched her. The manner in which he kept off to the side and observed things. Elzia was certain that there was something a lot more to Sans, she just had no idea what. And he certianly wasn't dumb. You didn't make puns without having some fast wit to go with it. And the way he could respond on a moment's notice without hesitation and very effectively turn anything into a proper joke on the spot…

No, Sans was much smarter and much more aware than he let on. Elzia was sure of that. She just wasn't sure if that was good or bad. And part of her worried that he knew she was human. But if he knew, why not tell her? Or even confront her? It made her insides turn at the thought he was just observing her to make some wrong move to hurt her and take her soul. But all the same? He seemed… honest in just being a friendly, if not lazy, comedian. And in all reality? He didn't look all that able to fight anyways. Papyrus for sure could, with how active he was. Sans?

Well, maybe she was underestimating him. For all Elzia knew, he was in fact some ubur powerful mage that could turn her into a fish. But it was just as possible that he was just very smart, but fairly harmless. Kind… of like her. Really smart and aware- but pretty much harmless because she was a weakling.

The bitter truth that made her puff out a breath of air. She knew that other kids at school could push her around, and here where magic was enabled for every monster of every sort? Well, Elia might have been human and the monster kind may have had a disadvantage in being nowhere near as sturdy as her… but the fact was she was just a Teenage girl with practically no magical power or fighting skills. Flowey showed her just how helpless she really was. If a monster got a hold of her? She was as good as dead.

Makes me glad Toriel found me when I first got stuck down here. That thought made Elzia smile while resting her head on a propped up arm. She owed that woman a lot. Not for just helping her, healing her, feeding her or giving her a place to stay. But also the fact she had saved her life from a murderous flower- as absurd as that sounded.

Turning her eyes to the potted flower, Elzia soon said, "maybe it's wrong, but part of me wants to toss you into the fireplace once I can gather the courage to touch you." Not that the flower responded to her. Why would it? It was just a defenseless little flower.

Using a hand to take off her glasses and the other to rub her face, Elzia decided to take it back. It wasn't fair to torch a harmless flower because she was currently upset and even sacred of a monster that looked like one. Did it matter if she did burn a small flower? Probably not. But the principle was what mattered. And taking out her fears and anger on a small flower was… kind of petty. And sad. Maybe even-

I really need to stop thinking. Sighed out Elzia as she stood up and got her glasses back on. Turning away from the flower to find something else to do, and not dwell on such thoughts. Maybe she should focus on some magic practice and not think about her flower fears until later. Or at the very least, think of some new mantra besides the one stating it was 'just a flower'.

Reaching for her phone and digging it out, Elzia pondered, I wonder if Papyrus or Sans are doing anything?

The forest of Snowdin was often very quiet. With nary a loud sound. One could almost relax in the serene and chilly forests and enjoy the peacefulness of it. Though more than not, it's occupants would add their own ambient sounds. Such as the laughter of children in a snowball fight. The cackling of an aspiring stage comedian. The barks of Dog Guards. Or in this case, the gentle snores of one sentry that took his duty… semi-seriously.

Though while Sans slept away at his post, dreaming about hotcats and how to use his latest line of puns? Another walked up through crunching snow and took a moment to actually take in his person. Mostly to contemplate what they were seeing.

Elzia really wasn't sure how to take in Sans at the moment. Sure, he said he was a sentry, and yes, Papyrus had mentioned the guy would sleep on the job. But this was the first time she was actually visiting him during 'work hours' when she asked if he wanted to do something.

He said yes, but only while doing a bit of work on the side.

Elzia wasn't sure if this counted for 'work on the side', or he maybe meant something else to work on. But the sight of him snoozing away at the Sentry post he was at? It made Elzia half wonder if she was correct in her analysis of him being smarter than he looked. Was she… possibly wrong?

Letting out a breath and figuring to pull her gifted coat close to herself and walk up to him, Elzia said, "hey, um… Sans?" Only getting a gentle snore. "Sans." And once more, rewarded with a snore. Elzia made a face and looked around, not sure what to do. She didn't want to just wake him, but… well, he was technically supposed to be awake, so… maybe he'll let it slide?

Looking back at him, Elzia took in a nice deep breath…. And yelled. "SANS!" Elzia wasn't sure what lived in the forest, but from the sounds of it? Something had lived there. Because skittering, flapping of wings and even a few squeaks could be heard all around. What little wildlife around being startled by her shout that now echoed out.

Sans however snorted and raised his head up, blinking gorgilly before grinning, "oh, hey Kid." And chuckled, "that time to visit already came?"

Pressing her lips together, Elzia said, "yeah… you were supposed to meet me at the door." Pausing a beat to soon add almost flatly, "half an hour ago." She had considered calling it off when he didn't show, but after she had made a call to Sans, and later Papyrus phone? Well, she decided that really the Sentry post wasn't too far away.

"Huh…" Spoke Sans in thought, "Oops. didn't mean to give ya the cold shoulder, Kid." Chuckling at his own joke. "But like you saw, I was monitoring my sleep waves."

Making a face, Elzia asked, "do the royal guard really let you sleep on the job like that? Isn't it… dangerous?" Going on to ask on, "I mean… if like a human showed up or… something. They could walk right past you."

Grinning all the more, Sans propped up his head and said, "naw, if a human showed up, I'd know."

"How? Asked Elzia, "I mean, have you ever seen one before?" Wondering if she should try and back out of this topic she had accidentally brought up her curiosity.

"More than once." Sans grin somehow kept growing, watching as the girl went a little still. "You could say we've been meetin' the other for quite some time." An odd twinkle in his eye. "Kinda different, in a way. Not like many others."

They stood there quietly as Elzia flicked her gaze around. She cleared her throat, rocking on the balls of her feet, trying to think of something to say. Nervously, she looked to Sans, and could tell he was amused. Very amused. After a moment and glancing to the side, Elzia asked, "does… Papyrus know too?"

"Nah." Waved off the shorter of the two brothers. "He's a human huntin' fanatic. But he only got a very rough idea what a Human looks like." And then pinned his gaze to her. After a moment, Sans told with a shrug, "when you bolted from me on the day we met? I figured askin' to play along for my Bro in 'catching a human' might be too much."

Gulping, Elzia asked, "that… was you stalking me in the woods?" Recalling how scared she felt.

"I'm a Sentry, ain't I?" Chuckled Sans. "but, I ain't interested in capturing humans. Not really." And seemed to lean back in his chair that was in his post. "Too much hassle." And continued to watch her.

Elzia in turn, locked eyes with him. After a moment, she said, "you're doing more than that, aren't you?" Less of an accusation and more out of tentative curiosity. She went on while glancing away. "I see the looks you give me. They… sort of creep me out. Like you know something. Or… sometimes you just… stare at me like…"

There was a deep and foreboding chuckle that had her looking up at Sans. With a sudden chill in her chest that froze her heart and paralized her being, were two empty eye sockets. Somehow, that was more intimidating. The empty gaze Sans had her in, really had her frozen in place, feeling an odd sense of danger.

"Kid." Sans spoke in an almost slow, haunting manner, "you are one smart cookie. You know that?"

Just as fast as it came, it was gone. With a blink of his eyes and a wink, Sans went on, "I mean, it's sweet of ya to say that about me. But let's face it, I'm just a Sentry that likes his breaks." Watching as she seemed to come out from her paralized state to look away. He raised a brow and said, "hey, why don't you come on in." And motioned to the side of the building. "Take a seat and get out of the snow."

Elzia was hesitant to, but slowly she did so. Going around, going through the door and coming inside. Even finding an extra chair that was sitting in a corner. While she took a seat, taking in a few… odds and ends that didn't have any business being in a Sentry post, Sans told, "you don't gotta worry Kid." Hands shoved in his coat pockets.

"You seem to mean well." Sans told in an easy tone. "And you know what? I think you're not half bad. I actually haven't seen Pap's this happy in a long time. He really likes being around ya."

With a small nervous laugh, Elzia said, "well, he is something."

Giving a Chuckle, Sans agreed, "yeah, he sure is." Both slipping into a slight silence. But it didn't last long as he told, "what I'm tryin' to say is, you're a good Kid. Sharp too. You seem to take your time to think and understand things, more than most humans tend to do when they get down here."

Making a face to that, Elzia asked hesitantly, "did… did the other fallen humans… hurt people down here?"

"More than once, I'm sure." Sans seems to shrug off, though Elzea wasn't sure he liked his vague answer. "Humans tend to do that, you know. Fight or attack stuff they don't get."

Looking away, Elzia said, "yeah… they…" Then sighed, "[i]We[/i] do, don't we?"

Sans observed the girl before him and seemed to ask, "Speaking from experience there, Kid?"

Slowly nodding, the human Teen told while moving the hood of the coat up. Slightly enjoying the fuzzy rim it had. "I… wasn't very popular back in my school. Being the four-eyed girl that was kind of a 'know it all'." Then made a face, "Well, less of a know it all and… well, I don't really know why they picked on me. They just did because I was… weird to them, I guess."

"And ya pals?" Asked Sans while reclining back. He almost looked ready to take a good nap from where Elzia watched him.

Though the question did have her thinking back. "I didn't really have that many. If anything, I only really have two. And even then one of them kind of… well…" She made a face. "I'm still not sure if they're really my friend." When she saw Sans raise a brow, she decided to answer his unspoken question. "They tended to distance themselves whenever I got picked on or if the more popular kids were around to side with."

Snorting, Sans asked, "you call that a friend?"

"It's not like I have much else besides my Mom." Elzia admitted honestly. "You take what you can get, you know?"

"Heh. I think I get that." Sans chuckled out. "Pap's is kinda the same." Making Elzia blink. "Not many friends, but takes what he can."

There was a note of surprise when Elzia asked, "he dosn't have that many friends?" Going on, "I thought… well, he's so… outgoing and optimistic, bright- I thought people loved extroverts like that?" Sounding puzzled.

"Oh, I didn't say people didn't like him." Sans laughed out, "nah, people love him. He's the Coolest brother anyone could ask for!" then shook his head. "Nah, what I mean he ain't got any real close friends. They're not that many, actually." Then raised a brow and smirked at the girl. "You're definitely one of 'em. With how he acts around you, I'd say you two are nearly best of buds."

She looked down to that, almost looking guilty and even said. Sans tilted his head and said, "or are you?" Making her look up. "What's with that look you got? Being all guilty?"

Sighing out, Elzia hugged herself and admitted, "because I'm still a little… scared of him. Of what he'll do and…" Doing her best to not flick her gaze at Sans himself. Now certain there was a lot more to him. Even if she didn't know what that 'what' fully was.

"Ah, I get it." Sans nodded. "Yeah, I can see where that guilt comes from. You want to be friends, but scared he'll do something to ya because you're human." Then looked up to the ceiling in thought. After a moment, he said, "how's about this?" taking his hand out to motion around. "Why not you and Tori' come and have dinner at our place? Then we can talk to my Bro about you being human and keep him from jumpin' out the window and shouting to the whole underground that he's finally found one, and not try capturing you. How does that sound?"

While Elzia was apprehensive of that idea? She did admit that it would help clear things up. And if Toreil was there to protect her… it got her to nod and look to Sans while saying, "okay. I… I think I can do that." And looked down. Mostly in thought. "Sans… I know you said you're not interested in capturing humans, but… isn't it your job still?"

Shaking his head at her questions, Sans told, "well Kid, let's just say I'm keeping a promise." Getting a confused look from her. But he soon waved, "but enough of that, instead, how about we get to something more important." And moved in his seat to open a lower cabinet. Shifting around he came up and placed a number of things on the counter and asked, "so, you like hotdogs?"

Blinking a little in confusion at the sight of the buns, the weaners and even the condiments that went with them? Elzia soon said, "uh, yeah. I like hot dogs." Wondering if this was also allowed by the kingdom for their Snetries to also be food stands.

She really didn't understand these monsters still.

Slowly turning the desert of the hour, Toriel smiled, "I will admit, it is rather nice to have these shared dinners. I actually miss them." Watching as Elzia gently squeezed the frosting onto the cake that would be used during their visit to the skele-brother's home. "Are you nervous?"

"A little." Elzia honestly admitted while keeping a light pressure on the bag of frosting. "Papyrus seems so nice, I'm not sure how I feel about him going… human-obsessive-crazy when Sans breaks the news to him at dinner." Lips tight in worry. "I only agreed because I know you'll be there."

Nodding, Toriel soon said, "I am nervous too." Getting a slight look from the human helping her decorate the cake. "This will be the first time in a long time that I left the house, left the Ruins, to visit someone else. It's… a little daunting." And once they reached the end, Elzia backed off and Toriel took over from there.

The goat-monster went on to tell while she took the offered bag of frosting, "I have no doubt a lot has changed since I started to live here. And truthfully, I have only spoken to Sans at length over my years here."

Slowly, Elzia began to nod to that. "I don't mind being alone… but how could you stand being alone for so long? Even I start to get… well, lonely after a time." A want to fiddle with a lock of hair coming over her as the idea of being alone only made her feel homesick.

Giving a gentle glance to the teenager by her side, Toriel smiled, "it is something that I simply got used to over time." Then once more returned her focus to the cake she was decorating. "But at the start? It was mostly to grieve the death of my children, as well as… other issues."

Elzia turned her gaze away to that, and while part of her wanted to ask? Another figured not to. There was a strange… bitter note in the woman's tone and it was probably better not to ask this time. Even if she wanted to know what that other issue was. Though she wondered if it had to do with that unnamed husband of hers.

Shaking off those thoughts, Elzia soon said with a slight smile, "well, at least we're both nervous." The paused to say, "that sounded better in my head." Making Toriel giggle.

"I think it is alright that we are both nervous." Toriel told the teen with a gentle smile. "Because we'll have the other. For you, I will be there to keep you safe. And for I?" She paused before letting out a content breath, "for I, simply having someone there."

With a long look at the woman before her, Elzia said, "I didn't think of it like that." Then went on, "I mean, for you that is." And let out a breath, "Listen to me, stumbling and being all jittery…" Making Toriel again, give a small laugh.

"It will all be fine, Elzia." Assured Toriel. "Papyrus seems to be a good monster at heart. I'm sure once he understands? He will be more inclined to protect you than ever harm you." Before returning her full focus to the cake.

Elzia wanted to shift, but she soon asked, "you really think so?"

"He is training to be a Guardsman." Toriel said iddily while making a few finishing touches on the desert for that evening. "I think he would understand the value of aiding and protecting someone that can not protect themselves."

With a small laugh, Elzia said, "yeah. I guess you're right." Mind wandering back to when they first met. The tall Skellington did seem honest in his want to help, and to prove himself a good Royal Guard, even if he was still 'in training'.

Hand tugging on her hood, Elzia gave a glance up to Toriel, the woman seeming to keep her focus on everything around herself while they entered into the small town of Snowdin. There was something forlorn about the look on the goat woman's face, as if she had something on her mind.

Elzia decided to take a quick look around herself, taking in the sight of all the monsters that seemed to have a very content and happy life down here. If she didn't know their history, Elzia would have never suspected they were trapped down here. Everyone just seemed so… happy. Or maybe they were just making the best of a bad situation. It was hard to tell.

"So where do Sans and Papyrus live, Elzia?" Toriel asked the human beside her. "I still do not know the way like you do."

Blinking, Elzia said, "right, sorry. I spaced out for a moment." And stopped to make sure of her position. "It's down this way, sort of near the other side of town from where we came in." And took point, Toriel not far behind and keeping the cake safely in her hands.

"Besides being a little chilly." Toriel began, "it is nice here." Giving a smile to a couple of young children passing by them. "Maybe I should consider coming to visit here. Maybe do some grocery shopping to see if there's anything interesting here."

Looking up to that, Elzia told, "There's a small shop that sells a few things. Papyrus decided to show me and they had a few neat things." Going on to say, "I think one of his neighbors actually likes making candy. They shared some peppermint with both him and me."

"How nice of them." Smiled Toriel. "It would be nice to meet some more new people." Letting her mind wander a little on the thought.

In turn, Elzia gave a smile of her own and refocused on guiding the woman. Though kept her hood up at all times, just in case. She still didn't know how many monsters knew about her human nature, but felt it was safe to stay as hidden as possible.

Eventually, the Teen told, "here we are." And stopped before the two-story house. It was a nice place, though Toriel slightly scrunched her face up when she spotted Sans's mailbox stuffed full of unchecked mail, right next to Papyrus's neat and empty one.

Regardless of this, both walked up and Elzia knocked on the door. "Who's there?" Asked the voice of Sans.

"It's us." Elzia said with a smiled.

"Us who?" Asked Sans through the door.

Blinking, Elzia was a little confused. "Uh… Elzia and Toriel?"

When the door finally opened, Sans said, "you need to work on your punchlines Kid."

While Toriel gave a slight laugh, Elzia blinked a few times, mind catching up to what Sans had pulled. She let out a breath and shook her head, not really sure what to say. Still, Sans moved aside and let the two in, allowing them into the warm and cozy home.

While Toriel went and placed the Cake on the set table, Elzia glanced around and asked, "where's Papyrus, Sans?" Not spotting, or hearing the tall and excitable skellington.

"Had to do some practice with the Captain." Sans shrugged. "They'll be back in no time." And walked on through the house, seeming to turn on the T.V. and get a show going while he himself, reclined back to watch. Curiously, Elzia walked up and gave a look to the screen. Some box-shaped robot doing some sort of game-show.

Losing interest rather quickly, Elzia figured to walk over and finally get to that physics book she had seen during every one of her visits- yet had never opened. Passing up Sans, taking a seat and taking the book, she cracked it open to see what it had inside.

For a moment, Elzia blinked when she found another hard-cover of a book that read 'Joke Book'. Scrunching her face and turning the cover, she did indeed see 'Physics book' on the front. Then opened it again to see the hardcover of the Joke Book. Still a little confused, she opened the Joke Book cover- just to find a Physics Book cover. What? was the lone thought as she opened the next cover, to find a Joke Book.

Closing all the 'cover pages', Elzia examined the front and primary cover that still proudly read, 'Physics Book'. And once more, she opened it, going from 'Joke' to 'Physics' book covers over and over. Wondering if there was actually anything BUT those two book covers. But after flipping through possibly 20 covers of repeated Joke or Physics titles? She decided that there was no point and closed it again. Staring at the cover.

When she looked up, she found a very amused and largely grinning Sans, mirth sparking in his eyes. Lifting the book and pointing at the thing, Elzia said, "this is a cruel and unusual joke." Her mind started to puzzle out that this had to be some form of joke on Sans's behalf. It was the only thing that made sense.

Grin turning into a smirk, Sans shrugged, "hey, don't be like that. Not everyone understands Physics."

Narrowing her eyes, Elzia thought, oh, it is on now. Feeling a little annoyed. So, placing the book down on her lap, she said, "I wouldn't say that. It's all relative to the subject." And smiled, "if you give me enough time to make some momentum I can convince you I know a good bit about Physics."

"Well don't force yourself on my behalf." Sans grinned. "Because ther-mal dynamics to physics than I think ya know."

Sitting up straight, Elzia went on, "well believe me when I say that I'm not blowing hot air on the subject." And paused to try and think of another physics pun. Or, something related to heat. Maybe the conversion or transfer of it?

Still, her slight pause seemed to give Sans a moment to snicker. And for a moment, Elzia got distracted when she heard a bit of giggling and glanced to find Toriel listening in. The motherly monster saying, "well, I am not one that knows much about physics, but the topic does sound lit." Laughing to herself while Sans gave a chuckle. Elzia herself gave a small laugh, mind forgetting about scrambling for a pun.

Elzia was the first to ask, "lit? That dosn't sound like something you'd say."

Calming down, Toriel said sheepishly, "well, I have heard the term before. I had not bothered to ever use it, is all."

"I don't mind, sure brightened my mood." Sans said, getting them all to laugh.

While they settled, Toriel asked, "Sans, could I ask where the knives are and perhaps the plates to have ready for dessert later?" And motioned to the kitchen.

Getting on his feet, Sans said, "sure thing, I'll show you where everything is." And wandered off to the kitchen to show the goat-monster around.

Elzia sighed and shook her head, placing the book back on the table it belonged and gave a long look at the T.V. where some commercial 'MTT' brand thing was playing. She thought about turning it off, maybe muting the thing… but Sans did turn it on. Maybe he'll want to come back to keep watching.

Her attention was brought around as the front door opened, Papyrus marching on in with a bowl that looked sealed. "Thank you again for the help, I'm sure everyone will love this dish!" And stopped upon spotting her and grin, "Elzia, you're already here!"

"Hi Papyrus." Smiled the teen, though she was curious. Who was he talking to?

"Hey, that your new fiend you talked about, Papyrus?" Came the woman's rugged voice as she came right in, being as tall as Papyrus. "Where are they?" She went on, letting herself in and having a leather jacket, roughed up jeans and had blue scaly skin. Elzia even noted red gilled on the monster's neck, fins for ears, red hair done in a ponytail and a black eye patch, leaving only one yellow eye with green slitted irises. An eye that locked on with her and changed from playfully rough, to shock.

A shock that quickly changed to an outright glare that sent every warning signal through Elzia. It wasn't like the flower where she began to feel something was off, no, she was in outright danger and she could just feel it. And despite the glare the women had, a strained, sharp-toothed, wide smile was forced on her lips. "So…" She nearly grounded out. "You're Papyrus… New. Friend."

Gulping even more nervously, Elzia glanced from the women to Papyrus, who seemed to be smiling ever so oblivious to the tension in the air. With a slightly nervous wave, Elzia said, "h-hi. I'm Elzia." and while manners called for her to get up and shake the fish-woman's hand? Everything told her to stay on the couch and not approach a clearly agitated monster.

"Elzia." Twitched the Woman. "What a. Nice name." Each snort sentence being forced out.

While they stayed in their places, tension still building, Papyrus seemed to take that moment to place the bowl on the table and later come and close the door saying, "I know you're excited to meet my new friend, Undyn, but you forgot to close the door. I know how much you hate getting cold while visiting."

"Uh, yeah, sure." Undyne spoke while rounding on the guard-in-training. Grabbing his wrist before he could go back to the table. "Papyrus. You know to be on the lookout for Humans, Right?" And turned to again, look at Elzia. The girl's eyes are going a bit wider.

"Of course!" Papyrus said with a large smile. "I have been keeping a diligent watch for humans!" then went on to grumble, "but none have yet to show yet." then went on, his free arm raising to point to the ceiling, "but know, I will find one and make all proud that I, the Great Papyrus, is a Royal Guard in training! No Human will ever get by me"

Undyne let go of the skeleton and facepalmed with her webbed hand. "Papyrus…" She groaned with some frustration.

"Don't worry Undyne." Papyrus went on while patting the woman's shoulder. "I know things haven't gone as we wanted and there have been no sightings of humans in… well…" Taking a moment to stroke his bonny chin with his glove. "Now that I think of it, when was the last time a Human has ever been spotted?" And looked to Elzia to ask, "what about you, have you seen any Humans lately?"

Blinking at the question, Elzia said, "uh… well, not really…" Unsure how to answer the question. Though, she hadn't seen another human in quite some time so…

"Hmm… unfortunate." Papyrus spoke out thoughtfully.

"Papyrus." Undyne spoke with a very tense and controlled tone. "Do you remember what I said a human looked like?" Looking directly at the girl before her. It made Elzia flick her eyes around, wondering if she should run for it.

Any ideas of running for safety became null when Sans and Toriel came back out of the kitchen, the shortest of the brothers asking, "so, what's with the commotion?" And then looked to Undyne. "Oh, hey Undyne." And went on, "you're not doing anything fishy are you?"

Before the blue-scaled monster could say a word, Papyrus groaned out, "Sans, honestly!" Tossing his arms up. "Must you do this now?"

"If you want I can try again later." Sans largely grinned.

Smiling and shaking her head, Toriel walked in and moved her eyes up to see Undyne. She took her in and like that, her eyes narrowed a bit. When they glanced to Elzia and how tense she was? The goat-woman decided to make her way over. Setting herself down right next to Elzia and smiling. "Hello, I don't believe we've met."

"No. We Haven't." Came the slight clipped and short response from Undyne. Single eye narrowing while taking in the sight of Toriel, as if she was trying to remember something. Arms crossing and leg fidgeting almost. "Undyne. I'm the Captain of the Guard." This made Elzia tighten her hands into balled fists and press herself more into the couch and try to hide behind Toriel. Any and all pleasantries Undyne had, no matter how forced, gone as she asked, "Do you know that you got a Human behind you?"

Toriel went to speak, but Papyrus asked, "Really, a human is here?!" And looked all about, "Elzia, Sans, quick! Find them before they-"

"Papyrus, Elzia's the Human!" Undyne next to exploded, hand snapping and pointing to where Toriel sat and acted as cover for the teenager.

Blinking a few times, Papyrus spoke, "oh." And looked to Toriel.. Then tilted his head to peek at a slightly worried Elzia… than said, "so… she's the Human?" And looked to his brother. Sans thought about it… and gave a sound nod. Papyrus again blinked, processed this… then said, "Oh. My. God. Sans." And called out, "I finally did it! I found a Human!"

Clearing his voice, Papyrus said, "Human!" and paused, as if realizing something. "Hmm… you know… this is actually not the time or place to try capturing you. You are a guest, and dinner will be getting cold…"

"Forget that!" Undyne shouted out, hand out and blue spear forming there and then, causing the hairs on Elzia's back to rise. "Just help me grab the punk before they-"

"That is enough, Guardsmen." Toriel spoke with a firm tone. "Stand down immediately." And without pause, stood right up to be between both monster and human. "I am ordering you as Queen, to put down your Spear this instant." The strength in her voice making Undyne actually go quite as Toriel went on. "I am Toriel, Wife and Queen to King Asgor." And narrowed her gaze dangerously. "And this Human Child is under my protection. Am I understood?"

For a moment, Undyne gapped like a fish. Her eyes again looking over Toriel in a fair amount of realization before reluctantly dissipating her spear. Though she still cast a glare to Elzia, who did her best to not cower at the sharp look. Still, she looked back to Toriel and saw that dangerous leer. It was with a fair amount of swallowed pride that Undyne said, "Understood… your Highness."

Smiling, Toriel said, "good." and looked over to both Sans and Papyrus, the later of which had bugged out eyes and a jaw nearly ready to dislocate. "You said Dinner is getting cold, Papyrus?"

Jaw snapping shut, Papyrus blinked and said, "I- yes! Yes, dinner is getting cold!" And rushed out, "Sans, quick! Get the drinks filled! And don't forget the salad in the fridge!" And went on, "Don't worry Lady Toriel, I'm sure it's still warm enough!"

With a slightly tired laugh, Toriel said with a small smile, "please, Papyrus, just Toriel. We are friends now, no need for titles." Though gave Undyne another leer to behave.

"No, no, no, I must insist, Lady Toriel." Papyrus spoke with a hint of dignity. "As a future Royal Guardsmen, I must show my respect." And turned to grin, "Right Undyne?"

"Yeah." Got out the Captain with a rather displeased frowen. "You sure. Have to." Eye flickering between the Queen and the Human.

Toriel frowned a little to this, but let out a breath and turned to walk back to Elzia. She gave a kind smile and offered her hand, something Elzia took without much complaint and got up. Keeping by the woman's side, though part of her mind was in a near flurry of confused thoughts. Thoughts that got pushed back when she saw Undyne's glare once more. Making her want to shrink next to the apparent Queen.

When she sat down with Toriel, Papyrus seemed to call out, "and Sans, don't forget to get another plate for Undyne!" Making both Elzia finch and Undyne's twitching eye, as if realizing herself that she was staying.

"Okay." Was the simple response as the comedian came back, placing down a few filled glasses before turning around and once more heading to get a plate. Papyrus marching along to help get the other glasses no doubt.

Undyne gave a ragged and frustrated breath while running a hand down her face, leering at both Toriel and Elzia, though half-flinched at the older woman's own glare. Muttering under her breath, she moved and took a seat furthest from them. Arms crossed and pinning her gaze at the two.

When the brother's came back, Papyrus was sure to make sure everything was straightened out before sitting down with Sans. Smiling all the more while saying, "I hope you enjoy the Pasta this time, Elzia. Undyne helped make it!" And fearlessly took a large helping. This at least assured Elzia it wasn't poisoned- thought the human had to remind herself that Undyne only just now learnt she was human. There was no prep-time to poison it.

And while everyone was slow to get their own helpings of salad or pasta, Papyrus spoke, "so, you're a Human, Elzia?" Making her want to fidget. "When you said you hadn't seen any humans…"

"I kinda meant it literally." Elzia rushed out, head down. "I didn't think seeing myself in the mirror counted and… I've been down here for a while…"

"Ah, that makes perfect sense." Papyrus nodded in complete agreement. Though he went on, "still, you slipped right past me and know how to solve all my puzzles." Going on, "you are one slippery snail." And looked to Sans saying, "Humans are really clever, Sans! I can't believe I was duped so easily!"

Nearly snorting, Sans said, "naw, bro. Elzia's just special is all." And winked to the girl, "In fact, I'd say she just got so caught up in all the cool stuff you were doing, she forgot to tell ya."

Looking from Sans to Elzia, Papyrus asked, "you really think I'm cool?"

Playing with her food, Elzia said, "well, of course. You really are a nice and cool person. It's why I hang out with you." Feeling a little shy about saying it for some reason. Though it was probably because Undyne was still giving her this… evil eye made her feel very uncomfortable. Regardless, saying it made Papyrus preene happily.

"Seems you are right, Sans, the human must've forgotten because they were overcome by my greatness." Sitting tall and proud, while Elzia nearly facefaulted to that. It reminded her that despite his kindness and good nature- Papyrus did have an ego in him. And he was maybe a little dense…

Come to think of it, he'd probably be very easy to trick. Elzia came to realize, wondering if Papyrus was gullible with how trusting and nice he was. It was something that she shook off and decided didn't matter too much. As long as he wasn't after her and trying to capture her? She was fine with him.

Though that had her spare a glance up at the happily humming and eating skellington that was enjoying the pasta. Eyes flicking down, Elzia took some of the noodles and tried them out. And while they were a little… odd in taste, they weren't bad. Nowhere near as bad as the time she first had them. Maybe Undyne helped supervise and not let the guy add a pile of something like he did last time?

"Can I be assured you won't try and capture Elzia, Papyrus?" Toriel soon asked with a slightly more regal tone that Elzia was not used to. It still was making the human's head spin to think that Toriel was the Queen. But, if that was true? It made a lot of sense why the Monsters in the Ruins did not argue with her or go against her words.

"Of course, Lady Toriel!" Papyrus smiled brightly. "She is under your watch, so it stands to reason that I, as a Royal Guard in-training, must ensure Elzia's safety in turn!"

This made Toriel smile happily as she said, "I'm happy to hear that, Papyrus. It makes me glad we have asparing Guards in training like you."

"Thank Undyne!" Papyrus told with pride, "she taught me everything I know. Even giving me private lessons to be a better Guardsmen." And turned to the fish-woman that had been silent during the whole meal. "Isn't that right, Undyne?" Eyes sparkling with glee.

"Yeah, he's pretty attentive." Spoke Undyne. Trying to sound nice, but her tone clearly telling that she was far from happy with the current situation. Even half playing with her food and eating rather slowly. Most of her own focus was placed on Elzia.

It made the brunette uneasy, and Elzia did her best to not shift in her seat and just focus on eating. Dinner was going to be fairly… uncomfortable.

Dishes being cleaned up and everyone having their fill of cake, was it time to head home. Toriel smiled and spoke, "thank you again for having us for dinner, Sans, Papyrus." Collecting the plate used for the cake.

"Meh, it was nothing." Sans assured while he sagged in a chair, nearly asleep.

"Yes, not a problem in the least!" Papyrus agreed. "It was a pleasure having you all over." And went on, "And, I got to know that I found and made friends with a Human! I even exceed my own expectations!"

Laughing, Toriel said, "Well I am glad we helped make your evening." And went on to ask, "but are you sure you do not wish for any help?" Eyeing the table and the stacked plates that were smeared with sauce.

Waving a hand, Papyrus said, "yes, it is completely fine, your highness." And went on, "allow Sans and I to deal with the clean up. We are the hosts after all." And waved to them, "you go on and head home. We can deal with things here." Then faltered when he heard a snore and glanced to find his brother asleep. "... or rather I can take care of it." Casting a slight leer at his slumbering brother.

Elzia wanted to giggle at the sight, but any mirth was sucked away when she cast a wary look to the side. Undyne still sitting in her place, arms and legs crossed and finger tapping away. Toriel spoke on, not seeming to notice or care. "Well, only if you are certain. Then we will go now." And smiled to Elzia. "Ready?"

With a nod, the teen kept close and headed for the door. Casting a look over her shoulder at the Captain of the Royal Guard herself before leaving the warm house for the chilly cold. And while they left, door closing behind, did the two only make it a few feet away. The door opened and closed quickly as Undyne was soon heard, "your Highness."

Toriel gave a tired sigh, but schooled her features firmly to turn and look to the Fish-woman. Undyne took a moment to zip up her leather coat and march up. Elzia pointedly kept behind Toriel as the Goat-woman stood her ground. Once Undyne was before her, she asked, "you sure you want to trust that Human?" Glancing for the upteenth time at Elzia.

"That Human has a name, Captain." Reminded Toriel. "And Elzia is trapped here, just like the rest of us. She is trapped and stuck far from home, friends and family." continuing to tell, "I know what your job and tasks are, but Elzia is not to be harmed by you or any of your subordinates. Am I made clear?"

Eye narrowing, Undyne asked, "And King Asgor?" A chill going up Elzia's spine, an old memory and warning of him being dangerous by Toriel's own words… It made the teenaged human look up to the still stony faced monster.

"You don't have to tell him anything." Toriel told. "Elzia lives with me, far away from the Capital. You have no reason to care or bother her. And neither will he." Both holding and keeping their ground for a long stretch of time.

Undyne scoffed and said, "yeah, sure, whatever. Keep the brat." And leered at Elzia again before looking up at the Queen. "I still got to report a human's around. But I won't say where… for now." then looked to Elzia telling, "I'm watching you, punk." raising a hand to point from her eye to Elzia's own eyes before turning and marched off through the snow.

Toriel heaved a heavy sigh, but didn't say anything more. She looked to Elzia and held her hand out. And while it felt a little childish? Elzia took it and followed along. The firm if not gentle grasp, reassuring her that she was within the reach of safety.

Both human and monster walked through the Town, most of its residence heading in for the approaching night. Out here, in the wider caverns, Elzia could tell it was getting a bit darker. And one glance up showed a few little filters of light coming from the cavernous ceiling, telling here there were possibly a few rare holes high above. She wondered what kept it stable, but the thought of the barrier and the magic behind it gave her a guess.

As they left the Town of Snowdin behind, traveling over the bridge and fresh snow, Elzia asked, "so… Queen huh?" Her voice is a bit low and uncertain. Even more so when she felt the grip of Toriel's hand tighten. "Does that mean… King Asgore, the one you… warned me about. He's…"

"My Husband, yes." Responded Toriel, both once more lapsing into silence.

"What… happened between you two?" Elzia asked hesitantly.

There was another deep sigh, and Toriel glanced away in thought. She didn't respond for a long time, but soon said, "A lot, Elzia. A lot." Going into silence as they both continued to walk home. It was broken however, when Toriel said, "When our adopted human child, Chara, was found by my son, Asriel… we dared to hope that the Underground could gain hope."

Elzia lifted her head, watching the Queen carefully as she spoke. "That with both Asriel and Chara as siblings, as both royals of the family… that it would show that there was still hope that Monsters and Humans could live in peace, like the time before that dreadful war."

Creasing her brows, Elzia soon said, "you make it sound like you were… there when the war happened."

"That is because, child, I was." Surprising the girl. "Asgore and I are Boss Monsters, and do not age like humans or most monsters. Our magic allows us to remain young and strong, until we have a child. And from there, our magic is used to help grow them into strong adults. Leaving the parents old afterwards." Then looked down, "I am centuries, perhaps more older than that."

"Wow." Was all Elzia could get out, "I… I honestly thought you were… I don't know, in your mid or late 20's."

This caused Toriel to laugh, but shake her head to tell, "flattering, but no. I'm much older." Then looked away. "The only reason for my youthful appearance… is because Asriel died." Making Elzia somber at the news. "You see, Elzia… The reason for my leaving of Asgore… it's because of our children dying. Chara, they became very sick. And despite everything we tried, they died the next morning."

Just thinking about it made Toriel's heart heavy, but she knew that Elzia needed a bit of background to understand. "Chara used to wish to go home too. But only because there was this bed of flowers they loved so much. We never could go to the surface to fill out such a final wish. But Asriel…" She sighed. "My Son… we believe that in his grief, he took Chara's soul, gained the power that comes with it… and crossed the barrier to take Chara to their former home. To the flower bed."

While this made the teen wonder how that worked, or even how that resulted in their death, she didn't need to think long. "We found Chara's body in our private garden." Toriel explained. "Chara… and Asreil's dust all over them. In a single day, we were robbed of our children. And Asgore…" The woman lowered her head and told sadly, "Asgore… I had never seen him so furious before. So angered. He blamed the humans, blamed them for taking his children… and declared that night to all Monster Kind, that we were now at war with Human kind. And that from that day onwards, any humans that fall down, are to be captured and taken to him. So they could be executed."

"Even… those kids you talked about?" Worriedly asked Elzia.

"Even the children." Sadly nodded Toriel. "Since before our marriage, I have faithfully stayed by his side. Through the best and worst. But this… this single declaration… I could not stand by." Then breathed in deeply to tell, "So I left him. Left him and went to the Ruins, in hopes to stop any innocents from being killed. Because they did not deserve the wrath of an old fool driven by anger and resentment."

While Elzia understood that, she asked, "so… the barrier is by the capital then, right?" Making Toriel still, their walk coming to a near halt. Elzia winced, understanding why the woman stopped. "I don't plan to go there, I know I don't stand a chance against Asgore." Then went on, "I just… if it were possible, would that mean I could cross the barrier?"

Toriel looked to Elzia, a worried and conflicted look there. But eventually she shook her head. "I am afraid not, child. Even a Human Soul is not quite enough to cross the barrier. You need at the very least one Human and one Monster Soul each, to pass. And for that to work, a Monster must absorb a Human's soul, or a Human must absorb a monster's own."

"That's… a steep price just to go outside." Gramanced Elzia. Though she made a face and said, "but wait… I thought only Monsters could take souls of Humans?"

Shaking her head, Toriel said, "in most cases? Yes. But a Boss Monster is stronger than a normal Monster. So much so that our own souls, for a very, very short time, linger after death. The only chance a Human would ever get to gaining a Monster's own soul."

"So…" Elzia spoke with a great uncertainty, "if… if I ever wanted to leave, I… I would…"

"Have to take my Soul, or Asgores." Toriel nodded sadly. "It is why you can never leave. Why escape, is impossible for you."

For a long moment, both were quiet. One reliving their ancient past. The other, rendered speechless by the new information. Elzia couldn't even imagine the thought of killing Toriel, much less Asgore- just to take their souls to leave. It was one thing to want to leave, but to kill someone for it? The idea made her stomach almost queasy, and her body to shutter. Recalling that nightmare of dying.

Right at that same moment, realization hit her at full force. She would never see her mother again. Never see those two people she called friends, again. Her whole life from before, it was just gone now. The reality of it crashing down on her, it made her shut her eyes tight. She wanted to cry. Any hope of leaving, just crushed right there in an instant.

She felt that hand that held her own move her slightly. Another warm furry hand coming down on her shoulder as Toriel spoke, "Elzia?"

"I'm never going to see my Mom again, am I?" Elzia asked with her eyes still screwed shut. "I'm… I'm never going home…"

"Elzia…" She heard Toriel say, a deep pain there. But soon enough, the young human felt two arms embrace her. An embrace that Elzia couldn't help but take. Feeling the tears making their way out. "I'm sorry, Elzia. I… I truly am." Sighed Toriel. "I wish I could help you, I truly, honestly do. But… but all I can give, is my word to protect and care for you as long as you live down here. I promise, you will have a home here to have as your own."

All the human teenager could do was cling to Toriel like a lifeline. Quietly crying in knowledge that ever since she fell down here? Her life would never return to normal, that she would never again see her mother's loving smile. "Toriel… thank you…" She got out, body wracked with emotional pain.