Alice in Undertale

by Lolitafreak88

What if by some curious opportunity, instead of Wonderland... it was the Underground, the realm of monsters that Alice fell down the rabbit hole into? It's a world just as curious, with as many colorful characters, and things to discover... but is 'kill or be killed', 'mercy or violence', 'a good time or a bad time'. Can her curiosity and imagination open up into determination?

42. How Do You Get to Wonderland

Alice in Undertale

By Lolitafreak88

Chapter 41 How Do You Get To Wonderland

"Alice! This is all just a bad dream…! Please, wake up…!" Alice eventually would hear the desperate pleas of Toriel ringing through her dozing head. It was the rooster's cry to the realization that her friends had made it and that it was time to see the fruits of her efforts. Slowly stirring herself awake, she would sit up and stretch her arms as she heard a mixture of relieved sighs, delighted giggles, and 'phews'.

"Good morning everyone. Or perhaps good evening. I've truly lost track of time recently." Alice would say gently as she opened her eyes. Alphys, Asgore, Papyrus, Sans, Toriel, Undyne. The six monsters she spent so long getting to know. Time had been spent befriending them, helping them work through their issues, and in some cases shared clashes with. All leading up to this moment of them crowding around her with gazes of joy. It was one of the first times in Alice's life that someone other than her sister had actually looked so utterly relieved and thankful that Alice was present. It was that demonstration of unconditional care and love that made Alice feel everything she had truly earned such unconditional love by saving them from this seemingly eternal prison that was the Underground, but that she also saved herself from a lonely life.

"well you sure took your sweet 'thyme' tea getting up." Sans chuckled, sounding genuinely happy. Papyrus would side-eye his brother for this remark but be quick to turn his attention to Alice.

"Thank goodness you are awake!" Toriel clasped her hands together.

"W-we were so worried…! It felt like you were out forever!" Alphys murmured.

"Yeah! Any longer and I would have freaked out! Tell us next time you decide to take a nap, ok?!" Undyne put a hand on her hip as she spoke with her usual agitated but delighted energy.

"Sorry Undyne. Although I just had a very heated and intense battle. I figured some rest would do me good before we carry onto the other matters." Alice apologized and got up to her feet, curtsying apologetically. The others looked a bit surprised at her mentioning a 'battle' but the conversation continued.

"well, you did make papyrus cry like a baby but i guess i shouldn't be nitpicky about you needing a snooze after that battle." Sans nodded.

"WHAT! I DIDN'T CRY! I DON'T CRY! I JUST… CAUGHT SOMETHING IN MY EYE. BESIDES, DEEP DOWN I ALWAYS HAVE BELIEVED IN ALICE ACHIEVING WHATEVER SHE PUTS HER MIND TO! I KNEW SHE'D SUCCEED!" Papyrus insisted.

"what did you catch?"

"TEARS!" Papyrus whimpered, breaking down slightly but comedically.

"Now, now. The important part is that Alice is all right. Here, Alice. Why not drink some tea? It's not thyme but it is still good and will make you feel better." Asgore asked with a surprisingly sweet tone to his voice that reminded Alice of how he was in the video tapes as he held out a cup of fresh Golden Flower Tea for Alice.

"Thank you, your majesty." Alice gladly took the cup and started to drink it down. As she savored the delightful taste, snuck a glance and saw a moment of the others looking expectantly at her for some information. Alice assumed it'd be about the coming battle but then Toriel pouted slightly.

"Are you sure you don't need your own space, Alice? Are you fully rested or are you still feeling exhausted from this battle you mentioned?" The former queen asked. Alice, who had finished her tea, looked confused.

"Battle? But you were all there. When I rescued you from-"

"Alice… We do not remember exactly what happened. There was a flower… And then, everything went white. But now the barrier is gone." Toriel interjected Alice's questioning to explain the circumstances.

"... Huh. That is peculiar that you don't remember. Although I imagine that… since you all were incapacitated that it'd make sense you wouldn't recall that." Alice put a hand to her chin in thought.

Unfortunate that I still cannot tell them about Asriel if they don't even realize he and Flowey are one and the same, Alice decided. At least this buys me more time without having to build any false hopes. As much as she could probably share everything that happened in that battle it'd likely be a bit distracting from the unbridled joy the Underground must be feeling about the barrier breaking and being free. Indeed everyone's faces, especially Asgore's and Undyne's, had no tension or faint sorrow on their visage. It was only joy. That made Alice feel reassured about this memory lapse and she beamed.

"Though yes, I finally was able to do it. All of your hopes and dreams empowered me and the barrier is gone forever. You are all free." Alice said. All her friends walked over and hugged her gently in gratitude though given the size and strength of some of these monsters, it was a bit of a tight squeeze…

"I'LL MAKE YOU SPAGHETTI WHENEVER YOU'D LIKE OUT OF GRATITUDE ALICE!" Papyrus beamed delightfully.

"Yeah, I'm so glad that you did what you set out to do kid. Showed me a thing or two about success and effort." Undyne smiled.

"There's nothing I could ever do to repay you for your selfless act… You've humbled me and did something I waited years in futility trying to achieve. Thank you Alice." Asgore's statement was sincere and full of emotion.

"Y-you are welcome.. B-but can you… stop now please? I-it's hurting slightly with all your… s-strength." Alice barely got the words out as the squeezing intensified. Luckily all the monsters got the memo and let go of her.

"Apologies, my child. When you are ready we will all return to the surface. It seems the door to the east will lead us there now. But before then… Perhaps you might want to take a walk? You can say goodbye to all your wonderful friends." Toriel suggested.

"Goodbye? Wouldn't… Wouldn't this be a new beginning and we'd all go to the surface together?" Alice inquired curiously.

"T-they are coming along with us… b-but we have to get ready for the big migration. It'd also probably bring you peace of mind saying goodbye to all the wonders you've seen down here." Alphys chipperly adjusted her glasses.

There had really been so many wonders. This Underground that Alice perceived as a Wonderland at first was filled to the brim with them. Dark secrets, sorrow, and deep suffering too but there was light in this darkness. It was true that saying goodbye to such a place was very easy for the monsters who dwelled here for so long but they seemed to consider Alice's feelings too by letting her see the world one more time before they all left. It was a very generous gesture from creatures who had once taken the SOULs of her kind before. A sign of growth and positive change. As Asriel and Chara had worked so hard for. Alice would find this place a bit hard to say goodbye to but now she could do so with the fact the monsters did not feel bothered by the fact she would. In a new time period I'm sure to find many more wondrous discoveries over Mt. Ebott than what I found down here, Alice concluded with a giggle.

"You are quite right that it would. Thank you. I'll be sure to check up on those I've met and see the places I've been to one last time before we all start our new lives." Alice promised.

"Do as you wish. We will all wait for you here." Toriel nodded, as did the other five who were all too proud of Alice.

Alice took a small breath and exhaled. That would be a lot of trekking and goodbyes to make. Surely though, there'd be no more opposition for her to face. She had become part of the Underground after all. There was also a very important date for her to attend to and promises to fulfill so there was nowhere else to go but to talk to everyone and say her farewells. Still though, it seemed most appropriate to talk to her friends who were here first.

"Hello, Alice. Alphys upgraded my phone. I am having a lot of fun with the "texting" feature." Toriel shared when Alice prompted a conversation.

"Oh true. You only called me with your phone back in the Ruins. I wonder if I'll ever get the hang of the sudden ease of communication through technology." Alice admitted.

"Oh don't you worry Alice. It'll be fun for both of us to learn. Here, you and Sans must "check out" this one." Toriel eagerly gestured for Sans and Alice to pay attention. They were quick to do so and saw that the feature in question was an option to select for what appeared to be images of faces in different expressions. One was a skull and crossbones of which Toriel's finger had selected about three times.

"oh man, tori… that's brutal." Sans rubbed his head in a flustered way.

"I CAN'T BELIEVE THE QUEEN HAS RETURNED… AND ALSO THAT SHE'S A HUGE DORK! YOU TWO ARE TWO FEET AWAY FROM ANOTHER! WHY ARE YOU TEXTING!" Papyrus exclaimed in genuine bewilderment as he had been watching them. Alice snuck a glance over at Asgore who either was skillfully ignoring the commotion or was trying to keep himself busy by staring at the wall, smiling ever so slightly in an awkward way.

"Worry not, Papyrus. We are texting for a good reason." Toriel docilely said.

"WHY IS THAT." Papyrus's suspicion of what it could be was clear in his tone.

"well. cause we're huge dorks." Sans winked at his brother. Toriel flinched and seemed slightly shaken up by that description. Truthfully no royal would want to be referred to someone that sounds normally demeaning, Alice assessed. Turns out Toriel's response was different from what Alice had in mind as the goat mother developed a glint in her eye,

"Sans please do not say that. You are not a dork. You are more of a bonehead."

"HAHAHA, WOW! THOSE PUNS ARE EVEN LESS FUNNY COMING FROM HER!" Papyrus seemed to be smiling in spite of this.

"You appear to be enjoying the refreshing take on these jokes though Papyrus. You are smiling." Alice pointed out.

"IT'S A PITY SMILE ALICE! ALSO THEY ARE HARDLY REFRESHING! STILL… I'VE LEARNED TO LIVE WITH THEM." Papyrus defended himself.

Toriel- Future Teacher

"hey, alice, what's with that weird expression?" Alice would then ask Sans about things and got a question in return.

"W-was I making a weird expression…? I'm sorry. I guess it's just that so many possibilities have opened up to me that-"

"nah, relax. i just figured you were thinking about something big based on your furrowed brow for a moment there. the whole surface world is open to all of us now so we're on the same character 'ark'. But seriously, you got nothing more to worry about, kid. You kept your promise to break the Barrier without any harm done. I'm going to be there for you whenever you need help in return." Sans genuinely grinned and held Alice's hand in a handshake of gratitude.

"Thank you Sans. I'll still try to uphold your lessons to heart as I've done Toriels." Alice felt slightly choked up but pulled herself together enough to speak gently.

"Ah yes, my child. I taught her the ways of pacifism Sans. It's great to hear you two have gotten along together and that you kept my promise to protect the child." Toriel said. Sans had a bit of a shocked glance. Alice knew from that particular nightmare after losing to Papyrus he had not thought very fondly of that promise and had been all too willing to break it in the Hall of Judgment for his brother's sake. Having Toriel's appreciation for his conviction sent his way in this moment though turned the whole situation regarding that into something positive for him.

"It… was really hard to follow Tori. But I'm glad that in the end, even if I had my doubts, it all worked out for the better." Sans confessed.

"In truth relationships take time to build and mine with Sans certainly did take time. I am glad to have such a cool and powerful friend by my side." Alice nodded.

"Powerful?" Toriel seemed a bit surprised to hear Alice use that term in such a respectful way.

"it's kind of an embarrassing story… besides, i'm working right now so i don't have time to get into all the details." Sans blushed slightly.

"BUT YOU AREN'T WORKING! IN FACT… DO YOU EVEN HAVE A JOB ANYMORE SINCE WE ARE FREE?!" Papyrus shouted before suddenly bringing up a fair point.

"I'm sure you'll find a new one as a comedian." Toriel giggled.

"AUGHH… ANYTHING BUT THAT." Papyrus looked like he'd dread that idea.

"Don't worry bro. I'll put all my concentration into finding the first job that pays the bills. and pays me in bills." Sans grinned.

Sans- Pun-filled Promise Keeper

"SO, ASGORE… HOW ABOUT MAKING ME A MEMBER OF THE ROYAL GUARD?" Papyrus surprised Alice by asking Asgore a rather forward question. Undyne also looked a bit surprised… and perturbed. Obviously she didn't ever want Papyrus to bluntly ask Asgore that at a time like this.

"Well, Papyrus, now that the war is over… We might not need the Royal Guard anymore." Asgore admitted.

"But what if we were attacked on the surface by some hostile individuals? Or were trying to build a new home for ourselves and were facing threats? It wouldn't hurt to have some defensive guardians now would it?" Alice offered a compromise as she still supported Papyrus's earnest dream.

"YES! SEE?! THAT WAS THE POINT OF THE HUMAN'S QUEST! JOURNEYING ALL THAT WAY TO FIND ME AN OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN THE ROYAL GUARD! WHAT A HAPPY ENDING!" Papyrus giggled. Sans and Toriel exchanged somewhat concerned looks as if they both mutually realized that Papyrus wasn't ready to move on from the possibility of not being a Royal Guard yet. Alice then noticed Undyne and Asgore talking to each other in hushed whispers as Papyrus seemed to swoon.

"You are going to let him off easy when it turns out I can just do that on my own, right Asgore?" Undyne whispered.

"Yes I will Undyne. Though you weren't exaggerating when you were telling me he was that passionate about joining my forces." Asgore responded.

"Why do you think my training sessions with him have been more like glorified playdates?! I'm hoping he'll make something out of himself with what I've shown him that won't get his precious mindset scarred." Well, Alice considered, I guess it wouldn't be all that bad for Papyrus to find a new dream in the end.

Papyrus- Still Great

"So, Alphys… What do you want to do now that we're free? We have the whole world to explore now." Undyne folded her arms and asked Alphys about future plans.

"W-well, of course I'm going to go out and… Um… No, I should be honest! I'm gonna stay inside and watch T.V like a total loser!" Alphys made herself laugh from her answer.

"I believe that is along the lines to what my sister would call retiring." Alice pointed out.

"I-I'm not that old Alice… Though it will be nice to take a break from sleepless nights doing research… and being secretive." Alphys muttered out of a sense of humiliation.

"THAT'S THE SPIRIT! HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY! EVERYONE! A CELEBERATION! FOR BEING HONEST LOSERS!" Papyrus held his arms up in joy. Alice pouted slightly as though she wasn't sure if Papyrus knew what context he was using for the term.

"Heh. Papyrus has the right idea. Losing to Alice is the best thing to ever happen to me. So I'm glad that we got through those periods of loss with even more losses." Undyne chuckled.

"I suppose that is one way to find happiness out of a loss. Though really I don't think of us as losers as we are rather individuals living our lives and shouldn't feel the need to have judgements define us." Alice clarified, more for her own sake of not wanting to be known as a loser than anything else.

"Ever the detail giver, aren't you? I oughta teach you how to lighten up now that we're free Alice. Sometimes you just gotta go with the flow! We're all losers eventually and that loss turns into something to learn from right?!" Undyne couldn't help but shrug. As much as Alice would've responded that 'she'd love to do that', it was then that Asgore was twiddling his fingers and looked like he wanted to say something.

"Asgore do you have something to add?"

"Um… what's an anime…?" Asgore inquired. Toriel looked like she was holding back a smile as Alphys gasped and whispered to Alice.

"(Oh My God. Alice, please. Help me explain what anime is to Asgore.)"

Alice was now trying to hold back a frown. She had enough of discussing anime with the whole 'human history' fiasco. Albeit she was fairly certain that if she actually saw an anime at this point she might enjoy the medium. So with that thought in mind, she decided to honor Alphys's request with a nod. After thinking over what she wanted to say, she turned to face Asgore. The one advantage she had here was that Asgore was oddly innocent in his true self and probably would listen to whatever Alice had to say at this point with great respect. Not that I'm proud of having that power over him, she thought.

"You see your majesty, Anime is like a set of stories and legends that are presented in a very intricate and complex way. The subjects range heavily and often stick to a theme or message the creator wanted to portray. They also have a lot of… swords?" Alice phrased insecurely. Asgore's touched 'oh' and hands clasping together as if he had come to an understanding was enough reassurance to say Alice had succeeded.

"So it's a type of story… but with swords? Golly! That sounds neato!" King Asgore remarked.

"Cartoon actually… What Alice is describing is the basis of what most anime stem from, which is a manga or the take on a comic book or story that is eventually turned into a cartoon!" Alphys clarified with a sheepish tone but the pat on Alice's shoulder showed she had been accurate enough. Alice though looked perplexed.

"So then cartoons are essentially… moving plays of existing stories?" Alice questioned.

"Yes, I want to know where I can see this myself." Asgore added. Alphys looked flabbergasted at the sudden attention in the topic and quickly pulled out her phone.

"H-hold on you two… h-here… I have some on my phone… L-look at this!" Alphys would gesture towards the small screen where Alice and Asgore bore witness to a very obscene scene.

"Those robots are… kissing? Is this supposed to be a love story?" Alice asked, raising her eyebrow at the way the robot's shockingly human-looking expressions were beet red and the sound of heavy breathing between them was coming off a bit off-putting. Asgore simply put a hand over his mouth in shock and by the time Alphys realized what had happened, Undyne chimed in.

"I think you pulled up the wrong one there Alphys… You should've pulled up the one with the sword-swinging princess!" Alphys was blushing immensely and quickly pulled the phone back and closed it with an embarrassed huff.

"Y-yeah… sorry your highness… Alice… T-that was a mistake… B-but yes… that style of medium is characteristic of anime… at least of that g-genre anyway." Alphys recovered.

"Boy! Technology sure is something, isn't it?" Asgore asked freely.

"I suppose so… All I really know of it are things used to watch others or to do activities and games. I'm still afraid of what else it can do." Alice admitted hesitantly.

"Well then I hope we can find out together, Alice." Asgore said warmly.

"Y-yeah! I'll make sure i-it isn't so daunting for you…" Alphys nodded.

"Thank you two." Alice smiled brightly. Long ago she probably wouldn't have thanked either of them so genuinely but now it felt pleasant to do so.

Alphys- Enthusiastically nerdy

"So Undyne, what are you going to do now that you are free to use your strength how you want and pursue interests?" Alice asked.

"Well… I am a little cautious about the surface humans knowing they might not be anywhere as cool as you Alice. Heck they might try to attack us or some other stupid blind reaction." Undyne admitted. The other five looked a bit startled but then concerned as well.

"True… I will never forget the way I reacted when I heard about how my son died to them assuming he had murdered one of their own." Asgore's voice was full of heartbreak and sorrow and the positive mood seemed to have grown dour. Although Alice liked seeing how Toriel unconsciously neared Asgore and stood at his side supportively with a similarly wistful expression, she knew she didn't want this to carry on. Not when she had an idea.

"Hold on a moment, it makes the most sense anyway for me to lead the way, yes? Surely once other humans we may meet see me being your navigator and guide that they'll know you have won my trust! That would stand to reason you can easily win theirs just the same." Alice spoke clearly and hopefully. The resolution in her tone immediately perked everyone back up, including Undyne.

"Damn you're right! You have as much fire and spirit and toughness as me now! They'll know you worked as hard as we did to get OUR trust and they'll be sure to welcome us in and not even think of messing with us!" Undyne grinned, flexing her muscles. This'd quickly bring smiles to everyone's faces with Sans, Toriel, and Asgore looking the most proud.

"Granted we may need to discuss this in further detail later but for right now, I really want to know what you wish to do Undyne. I've always been inspired by your balance of understanding yourself as a brave defender of what you believe in but also as a woman who achieves her goals." Alice's voice showed relief and her ever powerful curiosity. Undyne though looked a little bashful.

"Well gee… that's a lot of flowery praise again, Alice. Uh I guess since we all need new jobs I'll just find the job that kicks the most butt without getting in trouble for it and go from there." Undyne said.

"T-that's probably a-a security position… or a police officer… y-you'd look good in a uniform though… ehehehehe…" Alphys blushed heavily as her mind seemed to threaten another surge of oversharing.

"just don't slack off on the job ok? learn how to keep making those mistakes from the best slacker around." Sans jested.

"Point taken Sans…" Undyne rolled her eyes lovingly.

"Then I probably just want to keep dating Alphys and make sure every one of the monsters has found their place in the world. And… also try to find a way to make anime real." Undyne said. Alice could only sigh lovingly at this. I do suppose this is exactly how I was about the idea of Wonderland being real, Alice realized as the mannerisms now were clearly identifiable to her.

"I certainly could try providing stories for such an endeavor. I do really want to write a book about everything that happened here in the Underground after all." Alice said.

"Thanks Alice! You know… we may have had butting heads once upon a time but now I think you're great. And that sister you talk about so much, she'd be very proud of you right now!" Undyne grinned and would noogie Alice a bit uncomfortably though it did much to help Alice from getting overly emotional as she really appreciated the sincere compliment.

"... I'm glad you think so."

Undyne- Spear of the Future

"So Alice, before you go off on your own again to say your farewells, I wanted to say sorry about almost trying to take your SOUL. I feel very bad about it. I hope we can still be pals." Asgore then spoke with a very guilty expression. Instinctively, Alice turned to look at Toriel who folded her arms and gave a sharp glance of frustration at her former husband upon hearing this reminder. Alice though would give a reassuring giggle.

"Pals? Even more than that, I'd love it if you could help me learn some more about monster history and customs. Or teach me how to grow such beautiful flowers and make such lovely tea." Alice genuinely was looking forward to finally having quality time with a monarch who wasn't temperamental like the Queen of Hearts in her dreams.

"Mmm. I didn't realize you were so fond of such recreational activities or our legacy. I'd be happy to show you how I got my green thumb and give you the stories. Though I think Gerson is a bit more of an expert in that field for everything before my reign." Asgore looked touched at hearing this. Even Toriel couldn't help but soften her gaze and smile at the two of them. I imagine deep in her heart she'd love for Asgore to be able to spend such genuine time with someone again, Alice believed in her mind.

"Besidesssss, I think everybody's tried to kill Alice at least once. It's not like you're anything unique in that regard." Undyne laughed. Now all the monsters in the room gave embarrassed or nervous glances albeit Papyrus and Alphys looked more shocked at the accusations.

"WAIT JUST A MOMENT THERE UNDYNE, I SIMPLY WISHED TO CAPTURE THE HUM… I MEAN ALICE AT THE TIME! I DIDN'T HAVE ANY SORT OF MURDERY INTENT!" Papyrus defended his pride.

"yeah, the only thing my brother would be willing to kill is cats." Sans shrugged. Alice laughed at this, reminded of the strange bone-stealing cat that annoyed Papyrus so badly while Papyrus would instinctively 'NYEH' at his brother for bringing that fact up.

"...A-and I didn't exactly… p-physically try to k-kill Alice myself… It's more like my science did." Alphys blushed slightly. Asgore seemed a bit surprised to hear all this but then looked a little more comfortable with the fact.

"Ohhhhh… In that case, I'm not sorry, Alice." Asgore said.

"ASGORE! That's not what I meant!" Undyne looked like she was about to burst into hysterics.

"It's alright Undyne. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. That's a very good piece of advice I've learned here." Alice smiled brightly. Really, after all that went down here, few things she imagined could phase her now.

Asgore- A True Monarch

After the lighthearted conversation was done (With Asgore being glad he could finally ask Alice whether she'd like a cup of tea, Alphys declaring real life the greatest fanfiction of all, and somehow Toriel actually cursing in an attempt to joke being the highlights), Alice curtsied and bid her friends adieu for now. Ultimately though, in the back of her mind as she made her way towards the Hall of Judgement was something of a grave matter. In fact she hadn't forgotten that Chara and Frisk were currently with her as it stood and that they had felt an intense mix of emotions hearing Alice have her chat with the group. Regret, longing, joy, melancholy, glee, hope, and relief. A serenade that told Alice that they ultimately were content with how things ended up so far and that a new road had finally opened for everyone in the Underground. Though it was at this moment once Alice reached the coffins of the previous human children, where Frisk's body dwelled, that it was time to fully address the situation.

"Frisk, are you and Chara alright with the conclusion I made? I know you were ok with it earlier but you are certainly open to changing your mind if you find faults with it." Alice asked softly. To anyone it looked like she was talking to herself as she gently opened the coffin lid again and saw Frisk's still untarnished body.

"Yeah… I'm… genuinely shocked that I never thought of it before. It's the best way to atone for everything I've done, Alice. Or at least on paper it does… And on paper my plan to free the monsters was picture perfect but then it went so horribly wrong." Chara's confidence was still shaky as they spoke to her within her mind.

"I'm worried too Chara and… guilty really. Yet I know that deep down in my heart I can't just stand idly by and go off to enjoy a new world knowing that Asriel's fate is tied to Flowey's. We've succeeded in freeing the monsters, this is all that is left for us to do. We have to try…." Alice admitted nervously.

"What you are doing really is a noble deed. I have to ask Alice, are you sure you are ok returning me to my body? You won't likely have the same powers you did in that final fight… and if you-" Frisk wanted to check up on Alice based on his reassuring tone but Alice's answer was swift.

"Wonderland… Seeing it come to life through you and Chara's SOUL and selflessness was truly a miracle. It protected me, saved me, and kept me company. Now I see though that the imaginations of my past have been surpassed far more by the story unfolding before my eyes. The book with no pictures as my dear sister said. I won't need to use magic of my own anymore when everyone around me provides that." Alice said gently. Her words quickly made it apparent to Chara and Frisk that her original power was not something she took for granted but was also not something that defined her. She was fine with making sacrifices to do things that she believed in.

"You really are the hope of the Underground now Alice." Chara said sweetly.

"And I'm glad that you were able to become that and find a wonderful family in the process." Frisk added.

"So how do I return your SOUL to your body?" Alice asked as she stared over the coffin.

"Bear with me for just a minute." Frisk said calmly as Alice could feel her body usurped. A deep breath was taken as Alice could make out that a red SOUL suddenly emerged from her chest and was grasped firmly by her arm. Alice would then find her body's control returned to her and felt the SOUL in her grasp. It beat like a heart and had a warm, crystalline surface like a rare gem but also a strange sense of something small and flecked like sand upon it. She knew then that Frisk was counting on her to finish the task. Smiling, she placed the SOUL upon the chest of Frisk's body where it seemed to sink into it through the fabric of their sweater. Something that perhaps could be seen as discomforting but was rather magical instead. Granted Alice was a bit anxious to see what would happen next.

"HAHHAARAHHHHHHHH…! *Cough* *Cough*" With a dramatic jerk forward, Frisk's upper half of his body and his expression exhaled strongly as he gasped for air. The first air he had for a long time. Alice's eyes widened but then she smiled in relief and quickly helped him to gather his bearings and regain his composure as he started breathing normally soon enough. She had revived the dead, returned the SOUL to the body, and proven part of the truths about SOULs to be accurate.

"... Ughh… I really am hungry and thirsty though as much as I hate to admit. Maybe I'll stop by for a bite before heading over to the Ruins. Or find one anyway." Frisk chuckled before hugging Alice tightly.

"Well I can imagine that would be a symptom of being in a state of undeath for so long… Although you sure you can get to the Ruins without causing too big of a stir?" Alice asked gently as she patted him on the back. She realized this was her first physical contact with another living human in a long while and it was comforting to have that memory again.

"I think I have my ways. The one thing about going through multiple timelines is mastering the geography of a place." Frisk chuckled though he also would hug Alice tightly, flattered at her care and concern.

"Do you need me to do anything in particular as I head over there?" Alice inquired once they finally pulled away.

"Mmm… well I do know that Muffet mentioned wanted to save the spiders from the Ruins so getting some supplies to help safely get them out of the Underground would be nice." Frisk suggested. Alice's eyes widened. I had nearly forgotten that was the entire reason for the spider bakery, she realized. And on that note I also need to properly return the Snowman piece to him as well now that I've seen all there is to see. She had been so caught up in this big plan that she had forgotten some of the ongoing stories that were still present in the Underground and the promises that she made. It brought her a bit of relief and clarity as she thought over what to do.

"Hmm… my best option would be to first talk to Muffet about the situation. Knowing her she probably has accounted for a plan to save them but otherwise she could offer a number of suggestions on what I should do.." Alice said.

"Sounds good to me, Alice. Safe travels." Frisk would then run off, likely preparing to get a head start on his espionage trip. Alice watched the human child go, the seventh human child of the Underground, with a sense of pride. Then she twiddled her fingers nervously as guilt settled in before she ultimately started becoming teary-eyed with the ultimate realization of what would soon happen. He had agreed to it but it would still mean that no matter what, someone would not be leaving the Underground with Alice today.

"Hey, Alice… I know you might be feeling regrets right now but you still have a long time until then. Plus I think it's something we both really want deep down inside. I know it's the one last miracle I can give to my adoptive brother…" Chara, still within Alice, consoled her. Alice gave a weak laugh and wiped her tears away as she then put her hands in her pockets in contemplation.

"I know… It's just… knowing I was the one walking in his footsteps in this grand journey and that I've earned the right to actually go beyond the Barrier while…" Then she paused. Considered what her friends said earlier. Undyne's eagerness, Sans and Toriel's mutual joy and relief, Asgore's hope, Alphys's honesty, and Papyrus's opportunities… They wouldn't have wanted her to second guess herself any longer. Not when she had achieved the impossible.

"No… you're right. No more nonsense from me, I'm committed. I won't let myself down and I will follow the advice I've gained from this journey. Now, shall we go see everyone again…? Though truthfully I'm not really looking forward to the puzzles or the extreme temperatures again." Alice admitted after straightening her apron and shaking off any remaining nerves.

"Well, that just means you're alive if you are getting to do those. Let's enjoy it while we're still here." Chara said. So enjoy she would… by beginning to bid her farewells.

Burgerpants- Big Buddy

"So we're free, huh? Mettaton told us as much." Burgerpants said, sounding a great deal more relieved than before.

"Yes! So now you can pursue your dreams as much as I can pursue mine! What do you think would be your first acting performance?" Alice asked in delight as she sipped on another Starfuit parfait knowing it might not be something she'd have down here again.

"Well probably whatever's opened up that Mettaton hasn't called dibs on. Knowing him, musicals would probably be off the table for me… Still, I'm sure with my (ahem) qualifications, it won't be long before I'm a famous movie star… Or, maybe I'll just end up flipping burgers again. But it's as I say! Nowhere to go but up! Literally, in this case!" Burgerpants cheerfully stated after gaining some confidence.

"*Giggle* That is an unshakeable fact. I've also reconsidered that if I were to become a writer, I might try writing a scripture for you to perform." Alice said sweetly.

"That's awesome little buddy! Maybe if you were to make it some kind of sarcastic dramedy or a really funny sitcom then I'd be glad to be your main star! … By the way, you wanna know something? (But don't tell anyone because they'll make fun of me) But I… I feel like I played a hand in everyone getting free somehow. Even if it was just working this awful job… I think I did something! And in part due to your belief in trying something that wasn't killing a human and taking their SOUL I… I think I did it in the right way!" Burgerpants spoke with a sincere tone that suggested he felt that his words were silly but that he truly believed their meaning.

"Mmhmm! We resolved the issue perfectly thanks to your help and your faith in me even when all seemed hopeless." Alice said chipperly.

"Y-yeah it was looking pretty dire there huh…? Still I'm glad you made it back in one piece and succeeded! Though tell you the truth, are you going to be ok? I mean I'm sure the monsters will take care of ya Alice but even I'm a bit lost at where we'll turn out beyond that Barrier." Burgepants confided, leaning an arm on the counter.

"As long as it isn't a desert or some other more difficult geography then I think we should be able to find someplace and some food soon. I'm really excited to finally see the world again for what it really is." Alice admitted softly. The two would continue to chat for a few more moments about their aspirations and hopes of avoiding further embarrassment.

Bratty and Catty- Oblivious but Optimistic

"So we're like totally free no, huh?." Bratty surprisingly didn't seem all too tense seeing Alice again. As much as Alice wanted to pass them by after how miserably bad their last encounter went, it seemed enough time had passed and enough to rejoice over had happened that the animosity had disappeared. Even Catty seemed totally fine with Alice as she immediately followed.

"Yeah, like, totally free." Catty said as she stretched her arms out.

"To tell you the truth I imagined you two would be more excited." Alice said.

"Like, millenia of being imprisoned finally over all of a sudden?" Bratty leaned against her arm on the table, also seeming a bit out of it.

"Yeah, that's like pretty chill I guess. Thanks for helping us get it Alice." Catty smiled.

"Naturally. And I hope you two have learned your lessons about humanity. We're not all out for doing bad things and in some cases would love to help those in need." Alice sighed as she put her hands on her hips and lectured the two friends one more time on the matter of her race. Bratty and Catty, to their credit, did look a bit remorseful of the fact.

"Uh, well when we said, um… We were hyped for the destruction of humanity… and then got you all riled up… We, were, just like… going with the flow?" Bratty at first sounded like she was trying to come up with an excuse but then hung her head low.

"Yeah, like I can't believe we said that. It was really disrespectful and uh… biased. Besides, I'm sure we'll like totally hang out more, Alice!" Catty quickly perked right back up.

"Huh… and what would hanging out consist of?" Alice raised an eyebrow as she was still not too certain about these two and if she'd enjoy the hang out.

"Like I don't know… whatever's trendy on the surface…? Shopping…?" Bratty suggested, chuckling to herself.

"Or we could promote our catchphrase! B-B-Bratty's the best, C-C-Catty's the coolest! A-A-Alice is the smartest!" Catty excitedly meowed and struck coordinated movements. Alice smiled slightly, appreciating that she was included in this.

"Uh Catty? We've like literally NEVER said that. And I know for a fact you just added that last bit." Bratty laughed.

"CAN it be though?! CAN it be!?" Catty nuzzled Bratty as if trying to incur her favor and even made a cute face up to her. Alice couldn't help but giggle at this somewhat endearing interaction.

"Anyways, I'm also happy to inform you that your friend Alphys is doing much better now. Maybe you can all start hanging out together now that the need for a Royal Scientist is done." Alice remarked.

""REALLY?!"" Bratty and Catty leaned forward over the table, in delighted awe. Alice would nod positively. The two friends looked at each other and jumped up and down gleefully squealing at the prospect.

"Great! Because like, I know soooooo many new ideas for her new image! Like, she should totally be a cosplayer!" Catty giggled.

"I'm leaning more towards a critic for her. Like, remember when she told us about the premiere of Mew Mew Kissy Cutie?" Bratty snickered.

"OMG, she wouldn't stop talking for hoursssss! But it was hilarious! Oh, oh, oh! Now that we're free we could finally our DREAM of having a pet cat!" Catty had already jumped from one topic to the next. Bratty shook her head softly.

"That's like, YOUR dream, Catty." Alice felt a small moment of sadness, knowing that taking care of a pet cat was a wonderful opportunity. I will never forget you Dinah, Alice thought, putting a hand to her heart. So it was up to her to speak up for not just Dinah but for all of catkind,

"I think it's a lovely dream of hers. As someone who raised a kitten I could probably help you with some tips on how to take the best care of it." Alice said. Bratty and Catty looked both rather surprised at Alice, Catty with a small smile of delight and Bratty with an expression of understanding.

"OMG you're right. It'd be nice to have like, a small cutie hanging out in my purse when we go out and stuff…" Bratty said sweetly.

"And in my dream, YOU clean up after the cat!" Catty said teasingly.

"Catty!" Bratty laughed as did Catty and Alice, all previous transgressions utterly forgotten and forgiven.

Muffet- Enterprise Enchantress

"Bonjour dearie~! I just finished tallying up all our donations!" Muffet was enthused to see Alice, offering a cup of tea once she saw her. Her pet was right by her side hanging by the bridge which intimidated Alice. Though his jovial smile upon seeing her made her feel a bit more at ease and suggested that there was good news ahead.

"Oh! So were you successful in raising enough money while I was busy?" Alice asked as she blew gently towards her cup and took in the sweet scent and taste.

"Passed with flying colors! We've finally raised enough to rescue all the spiders inside of the RUINS. And we'll also be able to afford…! 4 pairs of stylish sunglasses for every spider!" Muffet twirled around in jubilant delight. Alice was deeply relieved to hear this. After all, that was something Frisk had requested her to do something about and so it was cool to see Muffet had it all under control. Though the part about sunglasses seemed a bit random until Alice realized that they would indeed finally be seeing the sun. Perhaps there would be a small concern that the rays of sunlight would be too blinding for the monsters who hadn't seen it in so long. It was a legitimately intelligent thing to take account of.

"That's a point I hadn't even considered Muffet… I sure hope the sun won't do any damage to the monsters." Alice muttered worriedly.

"I'm sure they'll be alright, my sweet Alice. We'e endured tougher situations before. I must also say, I'm really glad you were able to help the prince out with his own dilemma." Muffet chuckled as Alice's eyes widened.

"Wait… you KNEW Flowey was Asriel all this time?" Alice inquired in shock. Muffet giggled.

"Well in all honesty the spiders overheard your discussions throughout your journey and relayed them to me. Particularly your enlightening reasoning on the matter and we all agreed your theory must've been the truth! Spiders have long persisted from generation to generation here within the Underground and shared stories to be passed on endlessly. Given the very first spiders who'd been around since the time of Chara had witnessed the tragedy to this very day where you were able to find very important clues that proved lingering theories, it was a natural conclusion to draw upon. Ahuhuhuhu~" Muffet giggled.

"Huh… You are very brilliant to have come to the same conclusion I did Muffet. Though I didn't realize your network was that… widespread." Alice chuckled nervously. She is just as intrusive as Alphys was in that sense, Alice gulped. At the very least it seems she's only used this network to keep in touch with the spiders across the Underground and to try to garner patronage.

"Can't let a chance at a prosperous sale slip out of my webs. Now that we're going to be able to bring all of my brethren to the surface, I will need any extra sales from my baked goods while we're down here to begin funding a wonderful enterprise on the surface. Do you think humans will delight in such sweet spider-made treats?" Muffet asked curiously. Alice sipped her tea nervously. It was best not to answer that question just yet. Not with her pet nearby anyway.

So Sorry- Klutzy Fine Artist

"So Sorryyyyyy…! The Barrier is broken!" Alice would summon So Sorry by shouting out to him after returning to the unexpected place they had such an unexpected encounter at.

"Ack! I'm laaaaaaaaaaaateeeee…! I'm so sorryyyyyyyyOOF-!" And somehow, the two of them would collide once So Sorry came barreling onto the scene.

"Oof… Well actually you are just on time since we haven't yet prepared to depart… Good to see you again though!" Alice smiled after she rubbed her head and saw So Sorry flopped onto his back, legs and arms dangling childishly in the air. After helping herself to her feet, she helped him get back to his. He looked really proud.

"Wow! You really are incredible Alice! I can't believe you made what everyone down here thought was impossible, possible! I feel so lame by comparison…" Twiddling his fingers seemed to showcase that he was not so proud of himself.

"That's quite alright. I didn't like the idea of you not realizing that it was time to depart the Underground so I had to check up on you. Have you created any new works of art?" Alice asked. As much as his art style could be very bizarre, she still had a soft spot and carried onto the work he had last made for her. I'll definitely be framing it in my new bedroom, wherever that may be. She thought joyously.

"Well uh… y-yes? I don't really have any official gallery though so I just keep all my works in a pile in my den. I-I was kind of hoping we'd be free so I could open up one… a-and finally find an audience who appreciates my creativity. and so I can improve." He whispered to himself quietly though Alice overheard him.

"Well practice makes perfect so as long as you dedicate yourself to your art and find a willing critic to get feedback from, there's a high chance you will improve, So Sorry." Alice said chipperly. So Sorry blushed and his tail seemed to wrap around his legs as if he was self-conscious, making Alice step back unconsciously to avoid its swing yet again.

"Wow… and to think my Art Club membership was down to two… Now I might be able to have more once I become more accomplished. You really are so kind…" He said sweetly.

"You're welcome. Although I am curious, who's the other member of your Art Club?" Alice inquired.

"They are a spider who does art entirely in webs. It's really quite lovely to look at… and they've even written messages like 'Some artist you are'. … W-which is a bit rude but they seem receptive to my praise and keep coming so I can't complain." So Sorry shrugged. Alice couldn't help but wonder if that spider had learned their craft from Muffet.

"Well I do suppose some artists are historically known for being a bit uptight. Either way, do you know how to get to Asgore's castle?" Alice asked thoughtfully. So Sorry gulped and looked panicked.

"Oh no you're right! I don't know how to get to his castle… To tell you the truth I've only ever really dwelled in Hotland… C-can you help steer me in the right direction?" So Sorry asked.

"Of course!" Alice would then proceed to fill him in on all the directions towards the castle from where they were. She would also add to be sure to ask any monsters that looked friendly for advice and try not to draw them without their permission.

Temmies- Best Left To Their Own Devices

As much as Alice loathed the last time she had dealt with the strange race, she knew she was obliged to let them know personally about the Barrier's destruction. They had been hoping to go to college after all and she didn't know how many people were familiar with their location and existence. Plus it's good practice for when I act as a human ambassador for the monsters on the surface, she considered begrudgingly. It was her taking good advice when she'd much rather not have to interact with them. Luckily they all seemed rather happy with the 'VERY GOODS' news.

"A pleasing development, no?" The most intelligent one said.

"Extremely." Alice said as politely as she could. Otherwise, one Temmie was particularly excited to see 'Cutes Hunan' and apparently the government decreed that the mushroom could be transplanted to the surface… after doing his strange dance again. The Tem watching the 'Eg' was determined to remain there and watch over the hard-boiled egg which was slightly depressing to Alice. I hope they realize the error of their ways, she thought, and somehow incorporate themselves into society alright.

Gerson- History Proved Him Right

"Oh Alice! I'm really glad you came to visit an ol' turtle like me! I just remembered the story of how Asgore got to be known as King Fluffybuns!" Gerson warmly shook Alice's hand as he asked an unorthodox question.

"Oh right, the sweet nickname he has. Isn't it a pet name he was given from Toriel?" Alice asked. Then again I suppose 'Gorey' is more than likely the one she gave him based on what I saw in the videos in the lab, Alice remembered.

"Wow, you really do deduce things remarkably well. It was at the monthly address at the castle, and the queen was giving her part on current events." Gerson replied.

"Huh? So the monsters from all over the Underground would gather for these monthly addresses? I never heard of such a thing." Alice looked a bit surprised. Even after all was said and done and seen in the Underground, it was clear much more secrets and stories about the Underground were waiting to be told to her.

"Yeah, that was before… all the misery and stuff happened. Once Toriel ran away from the castle and no one could find her, Asgore would bitterly cancel any further monthly addresses and that's how most of the monsters from each region stayed homebodies and some future descendents not even knowing about the castle and it's neighboring ancient town as he would not welcome guests for an indefinite amount of time. Any further updates on current events would be spread around by primarily Undyne as the captain of the Royal Guard in person or through MTT News once Alphys finished her project with him." Gerson explained.

"Huh, now that you mention it, that would explain things like why monsters like Napstablook didn't even recognize parts of the castle or that they hadn't really seen the King in some time. Monsters must've not been allowed to traverse the halls as freely as they once did following… Err, actually now that we've freed the Underground it's perhaps best not to dwell on such thoughts. Continue your story about the nickname." Alice blushed slightly as she realized she was overthinking something that seemed so trivial now. If anything it would probably only be useful for her future book on the Underground to know its history in full detail.

"Aww that's ok! I love sharin' such lore with someone so eager like you. So when the queen… Err, Toriel finished her side of the updates, she made to pass the microphone off to Asgore but forgot she still had it in her hands. She said "Your turn, Fluffybuns" and the audience started laughing. Once she realized the situation, Toriel also joined in the laughing. After a few moments, the king held up his arms stoically. The audience waited with bated breath. He leaned towards the microphone, expression… Stern. "Dear citizens." "Thank you for coming here today." "I… King Fluffybuns…" Alice soon burst into laughter herself hearing that story.

"Hahahahahaha! That's a wonderful story! I always suspected Asgore truly had a much softer side once upon a time and I'm glad that I'm continually proven right! I am hopeful we can see more of his lighthearted self soon…" Alice smiled serenely though looked away from Gerson. Truthfully the one thing she knew that could truly achieve this was something she was putting a lot of faith into and had no way of knowing if it'd work. Still, if she could bring back that Asgore who was so truly in love and blissfully living with his wife. That sweet father who never wanted to burden the Underground as much as he had… It'd be worth it for him and for Toriel.

"Funnily enough, we used to find his lighthearted self really insufferable when he was around Toriel. Nuzzling noses, bein' all cute n' cuddly in public… Embarrassing their children… They were so sweet it made me SICK. Thank god those days are over!" Gerson wiped his forehead as Alice found herself frowning.

"It's ok Alice, he's not lying. The two of them would sometimes completely ignore me and Asriel when we were hanging out together as a family to just share jokes or stare at one another for what seemed like hours. One time they even insisted on letting me 'babysit' Asriel in the Ruins while they went to bake butterscotch cinnamon pie privately. We got soooo bored but at least the pie was delicious when they served it to us much later." Chara felt the need to interject before Alice jumped to conclusions.

"Well I suppose I could see from that lens how being so deeply in love would be… unflattering to some. I personally find it rather uplifting. To imagine that the kingdom here would be ruled by such a balanced and devoted pair of monarchs as opposed to a monarchy completely dominated by one of the two ruling leaders who had a tyrannical disposition." Alice said aloud. She was responding to Chara but Gerson, who was the one hearing her say this aloud, looked at her with a bewildered expression.

"Gotta say we definitely dodged a bullet having rulers like that Queen of Hearts of yours, yeah." Chara said.

"I do wonder though… how did they become monarchs in the first place? Were their parents of noble blood?" Alice asked, as she unconsciously realized that Gerson was staring at her and needing to make it seem more natural that she was not literally talking to someone in her head.

"Well Asgore in particular is the strongest type of monster among monsterkind, a position very few in history have had. A Boss Monster. He was respected and revered as such and his cheerful disposition made him apt to be crowned king by the last reigning monster of our kind. He took Toriel as his wife and queen soon after and that's how the most diabetes-inducing romance in history began. Funnily enough, as he is a Boss Monster, the offspring he and his mate would have holds the SOUL power of the parents. This causes the child to grow as the parents age. But ASGORE doesn't have a child. So he's been stuck at the same age… And probably will be forever." Gerson would reveal some more very interesting revelations to Alice.

"Wait but isn't that simply due to his physical biology as a male? So has Toriel being aging all this time…?" Alice inquired. I guess this would explain why Asriel still remains a child even to this day but Toriel certainly seems younger than Asgore if he's that long-lived… She thought.

"Well Tori is actually a Boss Monster herself, yes. In fact it was a big reason a lot of people were all too happy to see her be Asgore's bride, but as someone who can give birth to a new life, she is aging already and will continue to age. Her child would grow as she would though only if she were to give birth to a girl would the cycle continue." Gerson explained.

Alice was deeply fascinated by this. She didn't even consider the fact that Asgore perhaps lived more than the average human lifespan since she was so concerned over preserving her own. That the king's legacy (And likely the main reason for having lost much of his will to carry on with his goals once he lost Asriel and pushed away Toriel) was destined to continue indefinitely based on this reasoning. In some ways it seemed a very grim and foreboding existence to live forever. After all, Alice had always seen that one of the biggest joys of a story was that it often ended in a satisfying conclusion so for Asgore to be burdened with the idea that he'd likely only end his tale if he was killed or perhaps gotten some incurable illness was depressing. As seemingly fruitless as this set of realizations was, it did explain much of Asgore's own personality prior to finally having a hope spot through Alice's endeavors. Although weirdly enough, Alice wondered if it meant that if she were to bring back Asriel if that would somehow change his current standing as a Boss Monster. Or if Boss Monsters were able to reproduce with other species and grant the same traits they had to their offspring. I imagine that many people might find such attributes very appealing but I wouldn't ask it for myself personally, Alice thought. Gerson surprisingly laughed.

"What's so funny?" Alice asked, eyes blinking as she came out of her heavy thought session.

"You looked just like Undyne did for a moment there. You're a real heavy thinker aren't ya? Thanks though for remindin' me to tell you somethin' about her. Back in my day, I used to be known as Gerson, the Hammer of Justice and little Undyne would follow me around to watch me beat up bad guys and occasionally pitch in to help! Often times though, the people she would attack were innocent people like the mailman or somethin. Anyhoo, I appreciated it. Wah ha ha ha!" Gerson chuckled.

"Ooh yes! Please tell me more about Undyne's. I would love to learn more about Undyne's start to being such a cool heroine!" Alice clapped excitedly.

"Wah ha ha ha! I'd love to but you seem to have somethin' realllll big on your mind. I think I'll leave those stories for later tonight once we finally see the sun and moonlight again. Go on Alice, you've earned it… angel." Gerson would shoo her away with his hands in a friendly manner and reminded Alice that she still had a lot of ground to cover.

"Mmm quite right. I shouldn't spoil myself with every detail of monster history you know. Especially when you've been nothing but patient with me! See you later Gerson!" Alice would curtsy a bit hastily to mark her departure before skedaddling away to ner next destination. Gerson would wave goodbye to her before sighing happily and starting to pack up his shop. He was honestly just glad that in this day and age, he managed to miraculously reach the point he could now be certain he could be buried somewhere that would truly grant him peace.

Napstablook- My Lifelong Companion

Mettaton- Conqueror In Heels

"There you are, Alice-darling. Feast your eyes! Dr. Alphys completed my wonderful new body." The most unexpected words Alice anticipated came from Mettaton who would promptly hug her tightly when the little girl approached his and Napstablook's house. Napstablook's delighted smile and floating over towards her also brought her a great deal of cheer even as her wide eyes looked over Mettaton.

"Oh! You're right! I'm pleasantly surprised she was able to find time to fix you up after that collapse incident." Alice would be released by Mettaton and 'hug' Napstablook next. "Are you two excited for what's to come?"

"mmhmm... it's so funny realizing that… it's true. the dream everyone had been hoping for has come true… Thank you Alice." Napstablook would bow gallantly, making Alice giggle.

No matter how many times I reunite with him, it always feels like I'm someone very dear to me, Alice thought sweetly. She was also very happy to see that his clearly good mood despite being around Mettaton who had once abandoned him indicated there had been a reconciliation. That the phone call Napstablook gave to Mettaton and her own words to the robot about how he had hurt Napstablook, changed his philosophy to such a point he had likely apologized to his cousin. Based on the excitement on Mettaton's face, it appeared the robot had much to tell Alice regarding things, so she knew what to do next. She spoke,

"I was simply fulfilling my promises Napsta. So Mettaton, what have you been up to?" Alice asked gently. Besides preparing to be a musical sensation from what Burgepants theorized, she thought. Turns out her line of reasoning and Burgerpants was right on the nose.

"Well, I am going to finally bask in the sun… the greatest spotlight of them all! Still darling, I have to thank you deeply for reminding me of something. Before fighting you, I had… forgotten how much fun it was to perform with others. And… I also was fully committed to myself rather than thinking about where I had been at. No longer will I be a solo artist! I've been looking for HOT TALENT to join my troupe when I begin my career of a lifetime! Shyren's agreed to be my back-up singer. And Bl… Napstablook, here, will be my sound mixer!" Mettaton's tone would shift masterfully to fit his honest feelings before finishing off with a dynamic pose. Alice gasped and looked to Napstablook eagerly.

"You mean you will get to share your music with the world Napsta! That's amazing!" Alice clapped jubilantly. Napstablook blushed.

"I-it's flattering yes to know… more people will hopefully come to appreciate a good spooktune… but also it means that I've… I've grown. And I'm happy to do it with Mettaton and with you…" Napstablook smiled. Alice blinked curiously twice.

"Me? … Whatever will I be doing if I assume this to be me being part of this?" Alice put her hands on her hips and raised an eyebrow at Mettaton. She wasn't opposed entirely to spending more quality time with either Napstablook, Mettaton, or Shyren (Who she also hoped would be delighted to be reunited with her lost relative as an Amalgamate) but doing so without her permission was a bit impolite.

"Well my dear! You are a natural songbird with a whole career and future to further develop your range ahead of you! And you have a grace and dexterity that can keep up with me! There's simply no way I could EVER let such promising talent go! You are going to be my back-up dancer!" Mettaton winked at her, causing Alice to get flustered. Her on a stage? She was probably already going to have to learn how to speak in public considering her unique role as the only current human amongst the monsters but performing…? While that sounded like good exercise and fun on paper, she could only imagine how stressful it would get and how much it would take of her free time.

"Wait just a moment there. I would not agree to dedicating myself full-time to such a position. At least not until we all have settled down nicely on the surface at least! And where's my contract? I've been told before that in order to agree to a position of any sort, a contract must be produced, signed, and handed in to the employer with permission from the act! I'm afraid I must decline for now Mettaton." Alice would wag her finger crossly at him. Mettaton looked aghast but Napstablook shook his head in understanding.

"I told you she wouldn't agree to it so quickly Mettaton…" He said softly. Mettaton would 'humph' and then tap his heeled foot impatiently as he seemed to be trying to devise a solution. He would get one a minute later.

"Ok how about this. It IS true you are underage-"

"Just exactly what kind of performances are you asking me to do…?" Alice now looked mortified when Mettaton brought up that point.

"Let me finish Alice. I was saying that most professional celebrity contracts don't start until you are a certain age. Thus I could be in a hefty amount of controversy if I was to try to make you perform for such long hours and consecutive amount of days! So how about this…? For my very first tour, you can appear in the opening, middle, and closing shows and then when you reach the pivotal age of adulthood, we could maybe talk about you becoming a fully-fabulous member of my troupe? You would also be fully allowed to decline if you find the life of a starlet too much or not appealing for you. You'd also be paid handsomely. What do you say?" Mettaton spoke as generously as he could. Alice put a finger to her chin in thought. It did sound relatively fair on paper if she only had to do a few performances and it could either make or break the potential of her actually committing to Mettaton's vision.

"Well it doesn't sound too bad of a deal. I'll be willing to accept your terms and conditions but only once we are able to fully integrate ourselves into a new comfortable living situation. Is that clear?" Alice asked, holding a hand out to express her commitment to focusing on important goals.

"Oh of course! I'm sure the audiences and the world at large will love you just like they love your book and movie!" Mettaton grinned. Alice could only facepalm at the mention of something he and Alphys probably knew by heart. Napstablook would fortunately come to her rescue by saying some things.

"by the way alice… I know you probably fought… him from what I heard. but funnily enough… when the whole battle was happening i was at my house… there was a flash of light outside my house… i saw the snails on the farm disappear then i heard a knock at the door." Alice's interest was immediately captured.

"Wait, so you mean you weren't absorbed by Asriel…? And the light could knock…? That's very peculiar but fortunate that you were able to avoid capture." Alice said. She also realized that by 'him' Napstablook was no doubt referring to Asriel without directly giving away that Asriel was Flowey. Truly he was still a perfect friend and symbol of loyalty for respecting her wishes as she would quietly continue her plan.

"yeah… it wanted to come in but i simply shut the blinds… i was glad to see when the snails returned though and… later hearing that you succeeded. You must've fought so hard…" Napstablook teared up slightly.

"Oh Napstablook it was a show for the ages! Every monster in the Underground now truly knows your name Alice. We all were there and seeing the spectacle first hand even when you were using our love and links to break the Barrier." Mettaton grinned.

"Well it was more of a battle of endurance and understanding than an actual epic bout… But thank you two. I'm glad that you two had so much faith in me." Alice pushed her hair back and smiled. "So are you going to also bring the snails to the surface?"

"Yes… I suppose. Honestly I never was fond of the slimy things but I do see now that there is a lot of charm to their determination and ability to go faster than even an average snail would. I'm poised to help Napstablook with that right as soon as you carry on your way. You still have quite a few monsters to sign autographs for I'm sure!" Mettaton would kick a leg up with excitement.

"Um… so far I've only been asked for one autograph by a monster who was lent a dress by you. They were extremely touched by the generous offer by the way." Alice chuckled. Mettaton giggled as he knew exactly who Alice was talking about.

"Happy to make a fan's day! By the wayyyyyy… Napstablook here has something very personal to share with youuuuuu…~" Mettaton would suddenly speak in a very sing-song tone and eye Napstablook with eager excitement.

Napstablook would gasp while Alice looked confused. The ghost would float over to Mettaton and hush whisper something to him with a certain panic. Mettaton would simply shrug in response and whisper back something in a lighthearted tone from the looks of it. Nasptablook then blushed and shook his head deeply and appeared to mutter something else. Mettaton put his hands on his hips and looked a bit flat-faced as if questioning why Napstablook was reacting like this. Alice had never quite seen an exchange like this in her life. The two of them were speaking so quietly Alice couldn't hear them but their expressions and posture were expressive to a fault and completely conveyed a sense that they were squabbling over something. Mettaton urging Napstablook to say something important and stop being a baby over it and Napstablook probably finding this to be the wrong time and place (And in line with his usual shy demeanor probably not being ready to say whatever it was). Alice couldn't help but laugh softly to herself which caught the squabbling cousins attention.

"Oh… are we amusing you…?" Napstablook asked honestly, sounding as though he appreciated the distraction.

"Yes. It's just very refreshing to see you two getting along again knowing you were so close once. Kind of reminds me of me and my sister's disagreements." Alice put her hands behind her back and smiled. Mettaton looked very touched by this comparison, putting a hand on his cheek and smiling warmly. Napstablook would give a small laugh of his own before taking a deep breath. Alice felt as though her sincere words must've been enough to give Napstablook the courage to commit to what Mettaton wanted him to say.

"alice… you and I both went through a lot in the underground.. And… i remember when we talked about the future right before you went to make amends with Undyne… how you wanted to find a new home for yourself… that you were fine with singing a cover to my song…" Napstablook started slowly and carefully with his eyes down towards the ground.

"Mmm, yes! I remember too. Oh so I guess I do kind of owe Mettaton my time and attention for performing as well if you are all working together in this field…" Alice sheepishly rubbed her foot along the ground.

"well it's more than just hearing my music through your words that's important… and no it's not any sort of 'owing'.. It's the time spent together…" Napstablook spoke with a sudden resolution that made Mettaton gasp and Alice look in awe at him.

"Napstablook? What are you speaking of?"

"Well… alice it's… it's been life-changing having you in my life. even here you were able to let Mettaton and I reconcile and make plans together. have a fresh new start. You've made so many promises and kept them… And encouraged me. I want to encourage you in the same way even when it's hard for me… When it's hard for both of us." Napstablook floated gently towards Alice.

Alice had a vague idea of what he was going to say next. That something was no less extraordinary and touching to her though. She took a deep breath and simply smiled. She had never imagined in her life (Or at least what she'd done so far in her life) to have someone like Napstablook. Someone unconditionally sweet, caring and thoughtful, a hard worker, intelligent and polite, and willing to go this far for her. To offer anything of such a high caliber to her.

"You want us to be together. Or at least, you would like for whenever we find a new home that we are sharing the same roof and space. Correct?" Alice still had kept very much in mind that she was not old enough for any sort of romantic relationship but deep down in her heart she felt this was the early blossoming of one. That was how far she and Napstablook had come to trust and care about one another. Mettaton's eyes were practically dazzling. Though Alice wasn't sure if it was because of the emotions at play here or that he was so supportive of his cousin. Given he had humbled himself immensely since the first time Alice met him, she felt it was the latter.

"I-if you don't mind of course… I just… feel like the best thing in my life is at my side whenever I'm with you… you're my hopes and dreams…. And it'd be nice for me to be able to be yours…" Napstablook said gently, tearing up this time with emotions of something honest.

"... Your words at the very beginning of when we first met were what saved the Underground Napstablook. Telling me about a place I so desperately longed to see after being led to believe that all I could anticipate was being attacked by monsters. You already were my hopes and dreams… now we can enjoy the time after having made them come true together. I gladly accept." Alice would 'hug' Napstablook tightly. She was committed to her lifelong companion now and even if he was no Dinah, he was definitely someone who had proven able to fulfill that void. Through the good times and the bad, they could achieve anything together.

"OHHHHHHH YEAHHHHHHHHHH!" Admittedly Mettaton's death drop and excited shout of joy kind of spoiled the moment. Though it did get Napstablook to whisper,

"you don't mind if he embarrasses me, do you?"

"Hardly. I think Alphys is more embarrassed by him than you could ever be." Alice said coyly. Then the two of them would laugh. The first of many more laughs sure to come.

Amalgamates- Finally Home

Alice had only heard that Alphys had formally returned the Amalgamates to their rightful families. It sounded like it had been a peaceful affair so she imagined that the families must've been so happy to be reunited that they weren't particularly bitter or seeking revenge against Alphys for how she held onto them in her secret lab. That either said a lot about how forgiving the monsters had proven themselves to be after the Barrier was broken or that maybe they were simply just that happy to be with their missing family members and friends. Perhaps even some relief that such a painful cold case had finally been laid to rest. The first Amalgamate she had encountered was Shyren's sister in Waterfall, Lemon bread. 'It's good to be with my sister again', the many voices would chime at once. Shyren herself seemed to be floating happily and with delight, not at all phased at her new sister's drastic transformation. It was soothing and reassuring to know that Shyren had a bright future ahead of her between the family reunion and being part of Mettaton's performers.

Endogeny was found in Snowden, where the rampant movement of monsters getting packed and ready to leave was quite prevalent. Before that, Alice had managed to find her cape and also a very familiar mouse plush waiting for her on the couch in Sans and Papyrus's house, so she gladly picked them up. A part of her would miss this cozy and quaint little house where she'd spent some of her more relaxing memories in the Underground. Still, it was more worthwhile to make new memories when they would be fully free from now on. Endogeny was surrounded by Dogamy, Dogaressa, Doggo, and Greater Dog over by the misspelled library. Greater Dog and Endogeny were exchanging puppy noises and it was remarkably uncanny how Endogeny sounded so alike to him. It was apparent that even their transformation into an Amalgamate couldn't strip away their true nature. Doggo was especially happy to have a loved one who was always on the move so that he could see them 100% of the time. He did keep his distance slightly away from Alice, perhaps concerned about getting a pet again. Dogaressa made a joke about how all the dog's parents were fused together into a horrible being but that she was fine with it because it "brought our families together". Dogamy was more concerned with the prospect of Endogeny's status meaning he would be marrying his sister.

"Hmm, that would be awfully awkward wouldn't it?" Alice inquired. Suddenly Dogamy's eyes widened like he just had an idea.

"Wait, we're dogs. That stuff's normal." Dogamy concluded.

"Oh…? Huh, maybe that is true among the animal kingdom. Still, I'm glad you all can move onto the surface together as a family." Alice smiled.

"Mmhmm! We'll definitely form a big dogpile the moment we arrive on the surface!" Dogaressa remarked gleefully.

Snowdrake's Mother was someone Alice was really hoping had been able to return to her family safely, given how much she had been a calming pedestal for her family. Her wishes would be answered once she found them in Snowden Forest over by Doggo's old sentry station. She was listening gently to Snowdrake and her husband as they talked about plans for the future. Though they would be quick to see Alice and look on happily.

"Oh Alice! You've come to say hi to us?" Snowdrake asked, sounding a lot happier than he had previously.

"Well I just know how much you two truly wanted to see her again. Once I found out… where she had been all this time, I was truly hopeful you'd reunite and be a family again." Alice said as she clasped her hands together in delight.

"That's very thoughtaful." Snowdrake's father said, also sounding a great deal more relieved and even warm-hearted from his earlier tone at the MTT Resort.

"So how did it happen with Alphys returning the Amalgamates to everyone anyway?" Alice asked.

"The doctah came into town. Rolling nervously with the othas. Snowdrake saw his mom and recognized her. Ran ovah to her and gave her a big hug. It gave me a long-lost fuzzeh feeling again. Some were scared at first but then they saw the dogs all exhchangin licks with their lost ones. Then all was well." Snowdrake's father explained gently.

"So you went to see your son as soon as the Barrier was broken?" Alice asked, realizing that it would imply that he had left the MTT Resort at some point between when she last saw him and seeing him here now.

"Yeah, he made like a blizzard to come to see me and make sure I was okay. I mean, took him long enough to think about my feelings at least but I was happy to know we were free. I always joked it would happen when hell froze over… get it, because this is kind of like hell and we're all icy and stuff?" Snowdrake offered a fairly poor joke. Still, Alice made herself giggle to appease what she knew was a very comedy-centric family.

"Sn… ow… y…" Snowdrake's Mother still spoke very faintly and with long intervals between her syllables but it was clear she was all too happy with her son. Or perhaps she was scolding him for using a word as intense as 'hell'. It was hard to note.

"Speaking of which, our family's now much biggah… Now that my wife. Is combined. With 16 othah people." Snowdrake's Father stated with an ironic tone. Alice was a bit bewildered to hear this. How many other dead monsters did she get exactly for this experiment? Though I feel it is best not to ask such a thing in the first place, given its water under the bridge. Alice debated internally. Alphys had suffered enough guilt in the first place after all.

"Even if she's sharing her mind with other people, she'll always be my mom." Snowdrake chimed in, supportive of his parent. Alice smiled brightly.

"As you all will find one another again no matter how far you are from each other." Alice said.

"Huh… I didn't realize. You had this much faith. In us. It's reassuring. After how lousy I've been." Snowdrake's Father sighed in surprise.

"Well you offered a bit of comfort to me when I was feeling very down. So it's natural for me to return the favor." Alice expressed. Snowdrake's Father would smile with a renewed faith in himself.

"You really do know how to orate Alice. You should give us some pointers on how to best tell a joke." Snowdrake suggested.

"Frankly I'm poised to be doing a lot of public speaking for the monsters… I might need help from you with how to be humorous at times and know when it is appropriate to do so." Alice shrugged.

"Oh I'll be happy to ICE-ssist!" Snowdrake laughed. They would all join in this laughter, even Snowdrake's Mother who did it in a slow tone that no longer contained as much gloominess but rather joyfulness.

Snowman- Frosty and Faithful

"Ah… I can feel that piece of me has been well taken care of. Thank you for granting my wish sweet Alice. You've made me really happy." The Snowman was all too happy when Alice held out the piece of snow for him to see. Alice still couldn't fathom exactly how he was able to have this kind of sensation or even awareness of where Alice went with it, but it seemed to be a blessing. It also felt good to return this piece to him in a pure and healthy mindstate as opposed to the miserable timeline where she had planned this to be her final act before ending it all.

"It did bring me a lot of joy knowing someone shared my own natural curiosity as I did. So being able to accomplish your own goal that you couldn't achieve on your own is the least I could do to show my appreciation." Alice said gently.

"And understandably it holds a lot of special memories… Memories that I feel a bit bad prying into. I apologize if I've discovered more than you cared for me to know." The Snowman apologized much to Alice's surprise.

"Oh. Well, it's alright. A lot has happened after all and now that the Barrier has broken, I suspect much of the madness will become simple tales to tell others in time." Alice had no qualms about this very polite entity knowing what she went through.

One could guess it was because the Snowman would remain stationed here all his life so he'd be unable to inform anyone of what Alice had seen and endured. Though in her own heart, her reason for not being bothered about this stemmed purely from the fact that he was a good friend and would not blab about anything personal to anyone. Still it is terribly saddening to know I might not see the Snowman again for a long time if ever again, Alice frowned as her thinking grew. Returning to the Underground would be the last thing on anyone's mind, especially the monsters. She didn't even know if it would be something that'd become desirable for her if enough time had passed. It held beautiful wonders but with the original world that she had known all her life open again, she felt more excited to see what there was to see there and how it had changed. It seemed the Snowman could read Alice's mind and would speak again in a gentle tone,

"I see… the Barrier has broken. If it isn't too much to ask, can you please take the piece of me up to the Surface and carry it with you always?" The Snowman humbly asked.

"H-huh?" Alice was a bit dumbfounded at first. After all, she wasn't sure if even this very, very, VERY cold piece of Snowman could survive an entirely new climate. Then after a few moments of consideration, she smiled and understood completely. The Snowman was still on his own journey and had a dream. If he could accomplish his dream through Alice, it'd be worth the request.

"... I'll gladly do so Snowman. We'll both find out all about this new world together. Though… won't you be lonely down here?" Alice asked. The Snowman would chuckle.

"Peace and quiet would actually be quite serene here as I can devote my time to experiencing what you have done. That and there may be a few Monsters who've really come to make the Underground their home. I'm never truly alone when I have company in my mind and possible company around here."

His words showed a remarkable maturity and contentment. Perhaps this truly was how Snowmen on the surface would think if they were sentient like this one was. After all, their lives were limited to the season and the climate yet would be built lovingly by families and decorated in the finest fares. Treated with generous respect and care, and often mourned when it was time for them to melt and disappear. What seemed like a bit of a bittersweet winter memory now seemed more like a lesson for people to learn from on how imagination and kindness could bring about a wonderful moment. Just as Alice's Wonderland brought her a sense of purpose and hope through the Underground. It would definitely help her know from then on how to handle her new responsibilities as the human representative of the Underground by being able to take perspectives from something old into something new. As tempted as Alice was to hug him, she felt that the Snowman still was rather delicate. So instead, after putting the piece back into her apron pocket, she curtsied gracefully.

"Then you can count on me to bring you the best memories possible Mr. Snowman. Until we meet again someday." She would then leave, hearing a bit of a jolly hum from the Snowman behind her, honored that he had finally accomplished his honest goal after so many years stationed in Snowdin Forest.

The One Needed To Be Saved…

Returning to the Ruins and finding herself walking through what she feared would be a restrictive and constrictive place to her curiosity after such a long journey was a strange experience. Alice perhaps considered she had blown out of proportion in her mind how badly being stuck in the Ruins with Toriel would've been back then. Now it felt like it would've been pleasant to spend time with Toriel a bit longer and enjoy more of her (non-snail related) cooking. Still, it seemed to be in her and the Underground's destiny to go and venture forth. Just as Frisk must've done even though each time he did so he had more blood on his hands. I wonder what it felt like for him when he was discovering everything I did for the first time, she wondered. He had been just as happy and hopeful as she was after all before he admitted to losing all his trust in the monsters when faced with the True Lab. Surely that sense of joy being renewed by helping Alice out and knowing the truth of the matter was a big part of why he was willing to do this. That knowing Chara had not been a monster from the start was a big part of why he was willing to do this. That all this time, it was probable that Asriel lay waiting for them at the very place where it all began would finally cement the last unresolved problem.

"Hey Alice. How were the goodbyes?" Frisk asked, waiting over by the entrance door to the rabbithole. Or was it actually a mountainhole? He leaned against the arc with as relaxed an expression as she had seen from him since he awoke.

"Truly joyous. It's rather surreal to go back to locations you thought you were done with along your journey. Especially here." Alice shrugged, folding her arms as she suddenly felt a bit anxious.

"It's alright Alice. It's finally time to set things right.." Chara, who had been respectfully silent for Alice's entire trip down memory lane, reassured her from inside.

"Thanks Chara… I just am… hopeful and really, really happy that I might be able to reunite the Dreemurr family." Alice held her heart tightly. If she was able to do this for Snowdrake, it was only a bigger and brighter opportunity for her to do this for Tori and Gorey.

"Then we're ready. Go on ahead Alice, I'll join you soon." Frisk gestured that the lead was Alice's. With that, Alice took her steps back to where she had first landed in this truly magical world.

Asriel's back was turned, staring at the golden flowers though his body language also seemed resigned. Despite the situation of what would happen to him after his full power dissipated and he would return to becoming Flowey, his appearance now still seemed very much physical and present. That was a sign of good fortune and that all the deductions Alice had made were correct so far. Yet Alice couldn't help but wince seeing that these golden flowers probably represented a great deal of trauma and sorrow for Asriel. These types of flowers had been where Chara had been buried, where Asriel's dust had spread upon expiring from his wounds, and would be what he'd be transformed into after death. As meaningful as they were blended into a tea, Alice understood that these flowers were also a source of pain. Perhaps the reason they had been Asgore's favorite tea blend as Undyne had told her was because the flowers themselves were a direct memory of Asriel even if it was a sad one.

"Asriel?" Alice asked. As much as she had on her mind right now, she still was delighted to see him and so she spoke soothingly. Asriel merely turned around to see her as if he had been expecting her. Or perhaps had been expecting anyone to come here at some point. I hope he wasn't hoping to see his parents, Alice worried considering maybe he had hoped to see his parents return here before they left the Underground. That'd be a devastating note to leave Asriel's legacy off on with him not seeing his parents before they left this place forever and he lost his original form yet again.

"Hi, Alice. Don't worry about me. Someone has to take care of these flowers." He said sweetly, turning around to face Alice. The serene melancholy in his eyes yet warm smile really said all that needed to be said about how he was feeling. Alice decided to approach this conversation casually.

"So you have your father's green thumb I take it?" She asked.

"Mmhmm. Me and Chara and mom would help him out all the time in keeping the gardens nice and expanding our understanding of different genuses and species. Like which flowers could be brewed into a lovely tea or which flowers would look best paired together in a bouquet." Asriel's eyes shone a little more brightly talking about a positive memory.

"I too rather like flowers. Except when they get very pretentious and ill-mannered to you. I had always been very surprised to know flowers held as much importance here as they did in my daydreams." Alice admitted.

"Really?"

"Mmhmm. Flowey form aside, it's obvious that the flowers here are what broke my fall so I could safely see the Underground in a non-wounded state. And that the flowers your father grows are a symbol of how truly caring he is even through it all." Alice gestured to the flowers that in hindsight had done a lot for her. Asriel frowned for a moment and Alice pondered if she had said something out of line.

"Yeah, he really is silly… but so full of love. And also so vulnerable to what happened. I regret that I didn't take into account how he might've responded to our plan in the first place. He'd have probably said no." Asriel said, rubbing his arm self-consciously.

"I wouldn't know the answer myself. He was driven enough to try to hunt down humans after your death after all. But I know he did it out of how much he thought the world of you and the monsters he ruled over. You were doing something he would've done. You simply just… needed to wait for a better moment I imagine." Alice expressed tenderly.

"... Yeah. I understand a lot now that I could've done better. It's just… a little late for all that right now Alice. Though I'm happy to have made amends in a way for all that transpired. Everyone's free after all." Asriel smiled slightly. Alice then decided this was the best time to break the tension. To start Asriel's life anew.

"But not you, Asriel. You aren't free yet." Alice said firmly. Asriel flinched and shook his head suddenly. He seemed agitated by the words.

"Alice, I know you might be trying to keep me company and think that I can come back but… I can't. My fate is to become Flowey again and even if I was to come back as them, they wouldn't know who I was unless you told them. I'd break their hearts all over again if they knew my destiny. So please just don't let them know anything." His tone was calm in spite of what was clearly depression over the matter.

"No worries, I haven't said a word to them about what I understood about you. … Well except for Napstablook but he's an extremely trustworthy monster and wouldn't say a word about it." Alice slightly blushed, realizing that in a way she kind of already had broken that request. Asriel looked a little surprised to hear this but then sighed.

"It's ok I guess. In many ways I do have a lot in common with a ghost like him…"

"You can still have wonderful lives in spite of that though. That's one perk to the Underground and the way things are after all." Alice giggled. It was true that it would be very hard to stay dead for too long in this world if you had the DETERMINATION.

"Say, Alice, can I ask you a question?" Asriel's mood would suddenly perk up as if an idea had come to him.

"Of course, anything." Alice said sweetly.

"Would you have come to Mt. Ebott on your own? I… know why you came here against your will really. Chara made me use the power of the human SOULS to find you and have him lure you here. The legend of Mt. Ebott goes "travellers who climb Mt. Ebott are said to disappear." Asriel recounted a piece of his history.

"Come here on my own…?" Alice looked up towards the very beckoning light of where one would have fallen from Mt. Ebott. Where she herself had descended all too long ago in her mind.

"Chara climbed the mountain because they hated humanity and wanted to get away from them, or perhaps never deal with them again. I never really knew the reason until they bellowed how they lost too much because of them right before we went to find you. They weren't the greatest person but I do feel they were someone I loved and looked out for and they did the same for me." Asriel rationalized as Alice looked back at him.

For a moment Alice was taken back to when Chara ranted about the state of humanity in the future from Alice's time when they were aiming to find and kill Papyrus. They really hadn't seen much good in humanity and perhaps felt justified due to all the pain and troubles that had arisen because of them. They really had just wanted to get away from them but originally were not aiming to hunt or make them suffer. That had been when Frisk's disillusionment and brutal treatment of the Underground had warped his original agenda to try to free their newfound family from the fate the humans had placed upon them into that of a genocidal force against all that were in their way. Flawed as they were, Asriel had the same opinion that Alice now had of them. They were still someone worthy of love. So perhaps what Asriel was getting at was did Alice really love Asriel enough to be going all these lengths to supposedly free him? What if it was just some kind of obligation she felt she had to him? Would she have even come to find out about the Underground in the first place if the choice to come here was her own? There was only one answer that would suffice here. The truth.

"I agree that Chara had done a lot to earn that reputation but I'm happy we both know that they truly looked out for you and for others. Now whether or not I would come here on my own volition…? I suppose that I would've been so curious about what was down there that I would've seen what there was to see. My dream of seeing something so magical would've been too great. I would rashly climb the mountain. I would've fallen down there and I would've been regretful and scared at first knowing what I got myself into. That I'd be giving up my whole life as I'd known it to discover this new world and meet all its inhabitants. Then I'd begin my journey bravely and optimistically, hoping to see if this world was truly like a Wonderland. To my delight, I'd be proven right. There would be many hardships and complicated mysteries and relationships to unravel but ultimately I'd succeed in trying to free everyone from the Underground. I'd find my place and yet I'd realize there was still one more person I needed to SAVE. …You Asriel." Alice told her true story straight from the heart. No longer would it be seen as a mistake, rather it would be the decision she made on her own will.

"That's… that's a beautiful story… And your DETERMINATION to help me… you're like the friend I wish I always had. But… you have to let me go now. Your place is up on the Surface now, not with me down here in this resting place." Asriel sounded extremely inspired by Alice's devotion but really wanted the both of them to accept their futures. Alice could feel Chara's own feelings of regret but also admiration deep inside. They loved to see Asriel understand where Alice was coming from and being able to recognize that there was no need to sugarcoat anything anymore. They still wanted their adoptive brother to know the impossible was no longer impossible though.

"I think it's time to share our hypothesis, Alice." Chara said surely from within. Alice would nod, much to Asriel's confusion as he somewhat mournfully looked at Alice. Why was she nodding to him? He'd get his answer soon after.

"Asriel. Letting you go is the last thing I should do. Not when I know how to save you and bring you back to Toriel and Asgore. To the place for us all." Alice started by straightening her apron and placing her hands on her apron. Asriel took a deep breath and looked speechless. He was in disbelief but also curious to hear what Alice had to say.

"You've always told me that without a SOUL you would become Flowey again. Which is fundamentally true. The only reason you were brought to life again in any state at all was because Alphys did that experiment of conjuring a SOUL with one of the flowers in the castle's garden. The one where your dust settled after you died. So then what you really need to come back to life is not just a powerful SOUL like a human's or a lot of monsters but a proper vessel. One that isn't just a flower. But seeing as you offered your own body once a long time ago and it's gone now, all that's left of you is this form here correct?" Alice asked gently.

"... Y-you really know so much… Alice you… Yes, that's right…" Asriel looked and sounded like he was going to tear up again. He was astounded by her intelligence and thoughtfulness. Scared of what this meant but anxious to know where it was leading up to.

"Chara's form provides the vessel… They've been in a similar state as you for quite some time. He is all too ready to spend the rest of his life alongside you. But as for the fundamental requirement of a powerful SOUL-"

"I-I don't want you to have to give up your SOUL though Alice! You don't deserve to have to sacrifice your own future for mine! I-it'd be the last thing I wanted…!" The tears started to fall from the goat child's eyes. But then that's when someone he had never seen before came into view. Or rather, someone he had never seen existing since they'd last seen him. The true seventh child, Frisk, walked into the room from the dark hallway leading into the Ruins. He strode in with an uncharacteristic yet cool dignity about them. As if he was now a grown adult who knew exactly what he had endured, decided on, and came to terms with here in the Underground. He stood at Alice's side, Alice staring with an optimistic smile and determined gaze at Asriel, and nodded.

"Don't worry. I know she won't ever squander her future the way I did. And the way I can see my future is by helping you have your own. Take my SOUL and Chara's and you should finally be able to see the sunlight again Asriel." Frisk said with passion and drive to see this through… And Asriel's eyes widened with hope.

To be Continued…